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News: Ford Reveals Stylish New Fiesta; Advanced Technology Includes SYNC and 1.0-litre EcoBoost Engine

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September 11th, 2012 by Karen Joy Provo

  • Ford unveils dynamic new Fiesta with sharper design and exclusive features
  • Redesigned Fiesta delivers cutting-edge technology including Ford SYNC voice-activated connectivity system
  • Fiesta will be equipped with the award-winning 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine to deliver expected best-in-class fuel economy

The new Fiesta will be on stage tomorrow in Amsterdam at Ford’s special “Go Further” product event hosted by Ford President and CEO Alan Mulally and attended by 2,500 dealers.

New Fiesta delivers an advanced package of technologies including voice-activated in-car connectivity system Ford SYNC. Making its way to the Asia Pacific and Africa region, it will also be equipped with the acclaimed 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine to deliver expected best-in-class fuel economy.

“Fiesta has been one of the world’s best-loved small cars across five decades, and the sporty appeal of the last generation Fiesta inspired real passion among global compact car customers, contributing to its status as the world’s most successful small car,” said Martin Smith, Ford of Europe executive design director. “We had to keep that vital part of Fiesta’s make-up – but we also wanted to give it a more sophisticated look.”

The new Fiesta marks the latest chapter in the journey of the popular small car. Ford launched the first Fiesta in 1976 and has since sold more than 15 million models around the world. New Fiesta features design cues inspired by the latest Ford global design language and concept vehicles.

The Fiesta’s face is dominated by a trapezoidal front grille, bracketed by laser-cut headlamps with daytime running lamps that use LED technology, and features a power-dome bonnet design. The redesigned Fiesta also delivers a harmonious and ergonomically optimised interior.

Fiesta follows Ford’s approach of democratising technology – bringing advanced features to a greater number of drivers.

Ford SYNC in-car connectivity system delivers an unprecedented level of connectivity, enabling owners to voice-activate phone calls and music selection from devices connected via Bluetooth or USB.

The 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine is the 2012 “International Engine of the Year” and is expected to deliver best-in-class fuel economy.

Ford will reveal more details about the new European Fiesta range at the Paris Motor Show in September.

Posted by on September 11th, 2012 in News | Tags: , , , , ,

News: World Premiere of All-New Mazda6 Wagon at 2012 Paris Motor Show

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September 11th, 2012 by Karen Joy Provo

Mazda Motor Corporation will hold the world premiere of the all-new Mazda6 wagon at the 2012 Paris Motor Show.

It will be exhibited alongside the new Mazda6 Sedan that is currently generating a real buzz at the Moscow Motor Show. Both models displayed at the Paris Motor Show will feature Mazda’s new SKYACTIV-D 2.2 clean diesel engine.

Andrew Clearwater, Managing Director Mazda New Zealand says the previous generation Mazda6 wagon was a very strong performer in the New Zealand market and expectations are high for the new wagon.

“When the New Zealand motoring public sees the new Mazda6 wagon I believe they will be blown away by its class leading design that will make it stand out from the competition.”

Sales of the 3rd Generation All-New Mazda6 will begin in New Zealand in early 2013.

The 2012 Paris Motor Show begins September 27 and runs through to October 14.

Depending on individual market requirements, engine options for the Mazda6 include a Standard Power or High Power SKYACTIV-D 2.2 diesel engine as well as SKYACTIV-G 2.0 and SKYACTIV-G 2.5 direct injection petrol engines.

The new Mazda6 is the flagship model for a new generation of Mazda products. It incorporates the very best of Mazda’s craftsmanship and technical expertise across all domains, from dynamic performance and design, through to environmental performance and safety. It is the second of Mazda’s new generation of products which incorporate both the full range of SKYACTIV technologies and the new KODO – Soul of Motion design theme. It also features a range of advanced safety technologies and Mazda’s unique brake energy regeneration system, i-ELOOP.

Posted by on September 11th, 2012 in News | Tags: , , , ,

News: Mitsubishi Motors Unveils The World’s First Plug-In Hybrid SUV

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September 11th, 2012 by Karen Joy Provo

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) will unveil the new Outlander PHEV at the Paris Motor Show on September 27.

Outlander PHEV is the world’s first plug-in hybrid SUV and offers the best of three worlds: the environmental performance of an electric vehicle (EV), the cruising range of a conventional internal
combustion engine (ICE) vehicle, and the on- and off-road performance of an SUV. MMC is due to bring Outlander PHEV to market first in Japan early in 2013. It is expected here in New Zealand mid
2013.

The Outlander PHEV uses Mitsubishi’s own Plug-in Hybrid EV System powertrain derived from 100% electric systems used on MMC’s pioneering 100% electric i-MiEV and other MMC all-electric vehicles.

Targeting owners who require extended cruising range, the Outlander PHEV’s Plug-in Hybrid EV System fuses together the EV technologies proven on i-MiEV with the very latest ICE environmental
technologies, including MMC’s MIVEC variable valve timing system. Employing electrical power stored in the drive battery by charging at home, at a charging station or when the system recovers energy when decelerating, the Plug-in Hybrid EV System gives the Outlander PHEV petrol-sipping performance, with a target combined fuel efficiency in excess of 61km/litre or less than 2l/100km, far better than vehicles powered by a conventional engine, and a cruising range in excess of 880 km.

Major features

1) Automatic selection of three drive modes for optimal efficiency
Depending on driving conditions and remaining battery charge, the Plug-in Hybrid EV powertrain automatically selects the optimum drive mode (see below) for comfortable driving while
providing superior fuel efficiency.

  • EV Drive Mode
    EV Drive Mode is an all-electric mode in which the front and rear motors drive the vehicle using only electricity from the drive battery. With zero on-road fuel consumption and zero CO2 emissions the driver can enjoy quiet and very eco-friendly performance in this mode.
  • Series Hybrid Mode
    In Series Hybrid Mode the IC engine operates as a generator supplying electricity to the electric motors. The system switches to this mode when the remaining charge in the battery falls below a predetermined level and when more powerful performance is required, such as accelerating to pass a vehicle or climbing a steep gradient.
  • Parallel Hybrid Mode
    In Parallel Hybrid Mode the IC engine provides most of the motive power, assisted by the electric motors as required. The system switches to this mode for higher-speed driving when the IC engine operates at peak efficiency.

2) High-capacity drive battery offers driving versatility
The high-capacity 12 kWh lithium-ion drive battery gives Outlander PHEV an EV Drive Mode cruising range of over 55 km (JC08 mode), sufficient for all-electric operation in most everyday situations

The driver can also manually switch to Battery Charge Mode in which the IC engine acts as a generator and charges the drive battery whether the vehicle is stationary or on the move. Battery Charge Mode gives the driver the flexibility to use the IC engine as a generator at any time they want; for example if the driver wants to use EV Drive Mode at a specific time, they can
make sure the drive battery has enough energy for that time.

2) Twin Motor 4WD System provides superior response
The Outlander PHEV uses a Twin Motor 4WD system comprising independent electric motors to drive the front and rear wheels. In addition to decreased friction loss Twin Motor 4WD delivers better response and finer control than conventional mechanical systems. It accomplishes this without a propeller shaft or other mechanical components seen in conventional mechanical systems. The Twin Motor 4WD system is integrated with Mitsubishi’s well-proven S-AWC (Super All Wheel Control) integrated vehicle dynamics control system to deliver high levels of stability and all-terrain performance and ensure the vehicle behaves just as the driver intends it to. In addition, the front and rear electric motors generate maximum torque immediately, an inherent characteristic of electric motors, giving acceleration comparable to that of a vehicle powered by a large-displacement high-output ICE and allowing Outlander PHEV to deliver superior levels of environmental and driving performance.

Posted by on September 11th, 2012 in News | Tags: , , , , ,

Holden: Holden Sportwagon Series II SV6 2012 – Road Test

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September 7th, 2012 by Car and SUV

Holden does a good job of making a station wagon look mean. The flared arches flex above the 18-inch alloys. A front splitter with fog lights caps off the aggressive nose, and strong lines are arrow-straight down the flank to a smoothly contoured rear.

Being the SV6, the heart of this Holden is a 3-litre SIDI direct injection V6 (which will take E85 biofuel), though you can opt for a 3.6-litre vapour injection LPG V6. The transmission is a six-speed auto with Active Select which matches the revs on downshifts for a smoother braking experience. The gearbox is Read the full story »

Posted by on September 7th, 2012 in Holden, Road Tests / Car Reviews

News: Holden Releases Special Edition Z-Series Range

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September 5th, 2012 by Karen Joy Provo

Holden has announced details of a Special Edition “Z-Series” range that combines luxury and sport features with exceptional value for money.

The exciting “Z-Series” range is available on comfort and sports models across all VE body styles and is packed full of features, value and excitement.

Holden New Zealand Managing Director, Jeff Murray, is confident that the new Z-Series range is one of the best special editions offered by Holden.

“Z-Series is a range we think that Kiwi’s will be drawn to not only because of the feature packed options available but the Z-Series also looks great and shows Holden’s ongoing commitment to bring top quality cars to the market,” Murray said.

“There’s something in the Z-Series range for everyone whether you are looking for real sports performance, more comfort and luxury or just one of the best large car options in the market the Z-Series offers great value.

“For customers still in the market for a large family Sportwagon or a luxurious large car for home or business the Z-Series really does tick all the boxes.”
Vehicle line-up and specification are detailed below.

Commodore Z-Series (sedan and Sportwagon):

  • 18 inch alloy wheels – 4 (current Caprice wheel)
  • Front fog lamps with chrome surrounds on front fog lamps
  • Rear park assist
  • Rear view camera
  • Leather appointed seats
  • Leather wrap steering wheel
  • Chrome highlights in instrument cluster
  • Black bezel headlamps
  • ‘Z-Series’ carpet mats
  • Lip spoiler (sedan only)
  • Cargo blind (wagon only)
  • Chrome door frame opening (sedan only)
  • ‘Z-Series’ and ‘Commodore’ badges

SV6 (sedan / Sportwagon) and SS Z-Series (sedan):

  • 19 inch alloy wheels – 4 (LPG SV6 variants maintains current 18 inch alloy wheels-4)
  • Rear view camera
  • Rear park assist
  • Leather bolstered seats
  • ‘Z-Series’ carpet mats
  • ‘Z-Series’ badges
  • Chrome door frame opening (sedan only)

SV6 and SS Z-Series (Ute):

  • 19 inch alloy wheels – 4 (LPG SV6 variants maintains current 18 inch alloy wheels-4)
  • Leather bolstered seats
  • ‘Z-Series’ carpet mats
  • ‘Z-Series’ badges

SSV Z-Series (sedan, Sportwagon and Ute):

  • 19 inch forged alloy wheels – 4 (from Redline)
  • Front Brembo brakes
  • FE3 sports suspension
  • Sunroof (sedan only)
  • ‘Z-Series’ carpet mats
  • ‘Z-Series’ badges

Z-Series Pricing
The recommended retail price of the ‘Z-Series’ range will be:

Comfort Range:

  • Commodore Z-Series 3.0L V6 Sedan (petrol) Auto $49,990
  • Commodore Z-Series 3.6L V6 sedan (LPG) Auto* $53,490
  • Commodore Z-Series 3.0L V6 Sportwagon (petrol) Auto $52,390
  • Commodore Z-Series 3.6L V6 Sportwagon (LPG) Auto* $55,890

Sports Range:

  • Commodore 3.6L SV6 Z-Series Sedan (petrol) Auto $55,490
  • Commodore 3.6L SV6 Z-Series Sportwagon (petrol) Auto $57,890
  • Commodore 3.6L SV6 Z-Series Sedan (LPG) Auto* $58,990
  • Commodore 3.6L SV6 Z-Series Sportwagon (LPG) Auto* $61,390
  • Commodore 3.6L SV6 Z-Series Utility (petrol) Auto $49,000
  • Commodore 6.0L SS V8 Z-Series Utility (petrol) Auto $55,400
  • Commodore 6.0L SSV V8 Z-Series Sedan Auto $71,590
  • Commodore 6.0L SSV V8 Z-Series Sportwagon (petrol) Auto $74,290
  • Commodore 6.0L SSV V8 Z-Series Utility (petrol) Man / Auto $60,100

*Dealer/customer order only

Coinciding with the new packs, Holden will introduce a new colour to the VE and WM range. Inspired by the Holden Efijy show car, Alchemy is a new luxurious deep purple hue that will give Commodore stand-out style on the road. This colour replaces Mirage Glow.

Posted by on September 5th, 2012 in News | Tags: , , , ,

Lexus: Lexus RX450h F Sport 2012 – Road Test

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September 3rd, 2012 by Car and SUV

If there are any vehicles that are poised to reap the best market acceptance from hybrid technology, it should be SUVs. People like SUVs because of their practicality, but they don’t like stupendous fuel bills and that’s one of the reasons why sales of traditional SUVs have struggled recently and will continue to do so as the price of fuel increases.

If you are considering a Lexus LX450h, though, you’re probably unconcerned at the extra one or two thousand dollars a year in fuel bills you’ll save over purchasing a non-hybrid SUV. Chances are your other car is a Euro model with a large engine and the Lexus SUV will be for more practical duties like going snowboarding (it has a snow mode) or taking the kids to school. Therefore the hybrid badge on a Lexus SUV is because Read the full story »

Posted by on September 3rd, 2012 in Lexus, Road Tests / Car Reviews | Tags: , , , ,

Road Tests / Car Reviews: Toyota Land Cruiser VX Limited 2012 – Road Test

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August 31st, 2012 by Car and SUV

Toyota’s flagship SUV packs a formidable list of features, but is it taking the traditional off-roader just too far? Starting in 1951 (which makes it the longest running Toyota model) out of a military jeep project, the 40 Series arrived in 1960. Square and coarse, yet revered off road, it sold well.

The Land Cruiser didn’t start to get softened edges until the 80 Series in 1989. More and more interior comforts were added, but the drivetrain could still take a beating.

Think about all those times you’ve seen Read the full story »

Posted by on August 31st, 2012 in Road Tests / Car Reviews, Toyota | Tags: , , ,

News: Lighter, Faster, More Agile: The New 911 Carrera to the Power of 4

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August 30th, 2012 by Karen Joy Provo

The new Porsche 911 Carrera 4 blends the excellent performance and efficiency of the new generation of the 911 Carrera with the dynamic benefits of the latest version of the active all wheel drive system PTM (Porsche Traction Management).

The typical Porsche all-wheel drive with rear-focused layout in this latest 911 version guarantees maximum vehicle dynamics on a wide variety of road surfaces and in all weather conditions.

The new all-wheel drive 911 is available in four variants – as the 911 Carrera 4 and 911 Carrera 4S in both Coupé and Cabriolet body styles. They sport the same traits as the rear-wheel drive versions: their lightweight body design, suspension, engines and gearboxes are identical; the only exception being modifications related to the all-wheel drive.

Despite a higher level of engine and driving performance, all four models consume significantly less fuel than the models they replace – up to 16 per cent, in fact. Additionally, the new 911 Carrera 4 is up to 65 kg lighter.

The most distinct identifying feature of the 911 with all-wheel drive is still the wide rear body: compared to the two-wheel drive 911 Carrera models, the extended rear wheel arches combine to produce a body that is 44 mm wider at the rear, and the rear tyres are also 10 mm wider. The traditional red light band that connects the two tail lights has also taken on a new look.

Porsche Intelligent Performance: high levels of driving performance, low fuel consumption\

The C4 models have a 7-speed manual gearbox as standard with the Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) gearbox available as an option. The 911 Carrera 4 Coupé with 257 kW sprints from zero to 100 km/h
in as little as 4.5 seconds (Cabriolet: 4.7 secs) and has a top speed of up to 285 km/h (Cabriolet: 282 km/h). Fuel consumption with PDK is 8.6 L/100 kms (CO2 203 g/km) for the Coupé and 8.7 L/100 kms (CO2 205 g/km) for the Cabriolet.

The Coupé and Cabriolet of the 911 Carrera 4S each have a 3.8-litre rear-mounted boxer engine producing 294 kW; enabling acceleration to 100 km/h in 4.1 secs (Cabriolet: 4.3 secs) and a top speed of 299 km/h (Cabriolet: 296 km/h). Fuel consumption with PDK is 9.1 L/100 kms (CO2 215 g/km) for the Coupé and 9.2 L/100 kms (CO2 217 g/km) for the Cabriolet.

New: all-wheel drive indicator, Porsche Active Safe, sliding glass sunroof, extended Sport Chrono pack

In the new 911 Carrera 4, a new menu in the instrument cluster informs the driver how the PTM allwheel drive is currently distributing engine power. Additionally, with the debut of the 911 Carrera allwheel drive models Porsche is introducing optional Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) to the range, which controls distance to traffic ahead and vehicle speed.

When ordered with PDK, the ACC system adds the safety function Porsche Active Safe (PAS), which helps to prevent front-end collisions. In addition, Porsche offers a new sliding glass sunroof as an optional for the 911 Carrera Coupé. Driving 911 cars with a manual gearbox and Sport Chrono pack can now be even sportier: In Sport Plus mode, the system automatically double-declutches (blips the engine) during downshifts.

The new all-wheel drive models replace a very successful previous generation, of which a total of about 24,000 units were sold since 2008.

This represents a 34 per cent share of total sales of second generation 997 models. This previous generation launched with one of the greatest development steps in powertrain technology that the 911 with all-wheel drive ever made: new were the engines with direct petrol injection, Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) gearbox and electronically controlled Porsche Traction Management (PTM). In July 2011, Porsche crowned the all-wheel drive model series with the 911 Carrera 4 GTS, whose 3.8-litre engine was boosted to 300 kW.

World premiere at the Paris International Motor Show

The new Porsche 911 Carrera with all-wheel drive will make its first public appearance at the 2012 Paris International Motor Show in late September.

New Zealand deliveries will commence in the first quarter of 2013 with local specification and pricing to be announced shortly.

Posted by on August 30th, 2012 in News | Tags: , , , , , ,
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