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HYUNDAI i30 MODEL RANGE EXPANDED

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Hyundai is running hard in Australia following the introduction of the i30 N hot-hatch, but the standard models are also receiving the treatment with an expanded model line-up and upgraded features. Engine options for Elite and Premium models now include the 120 kW 2.0-litre petrol engine, which is paired exclusively with a six-speed automatic. A seven-speaker Infinity Premium Audio System is installed in the i30 SR Premium Premium. New to the i30 range it utilises an external amplifier aimed to deliver a fuller frequency response, accurate bass reproduction, and distortion-free… Read more

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TOYOTA TARAGO 2006 – 2016

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2007 Toyota Tarago

Toyota Tarago has been a favourite in Australia for close to 40 years. First models were really only vans with seats and windows but from 1990 they were purpose designed with all that meant in added comfort, safety and driveability. These are often past their use-by date and so are best avoided unless you can carry out repairs yourself. Spare parts are also likely to be a hassle. So in this review we will look at the Toyota Tarago from March 2006 that continues to this day with upgrades in… Read more

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BUGATTI TYPE 43

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1928 Bugatti Type 43

The Bugatti Type 43 used a supercharged 2.3-litre straight-eight engine fitted to a shortened wheelbase ladder chassis developed from that used on the Type 38. In fact the engine also came from another Bugatti; the Type 35B but it was used in the 43 in a slightly detuned form. The end result was to be the world’s first production car capable of being driven at 160 km/h. In reality it could easily be driven at 176 km/h or even faster if the optional higher final drive ratio was fitted. The… Read more

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2018 VOLVO XC60 T6 R-DESIGN

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The thing about being the favourite is that there are often people lining up waiting for you to slip. Volvo’s XC60 has been the manufacturer’s most popular model around the world since it was first launched a decade ago so it came as no surprise that the automotive world was watching keenly when the all-new second generation was unveiled. We put the new T6 R-Design to the family test to see how it stood up to the favourite tag. STYLING With its trademark sash grille, sleek body lines and Thor… Read more

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DATSUN 240Z

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1972 Datsun 240Z

The Japanese car manufacturer Datsun commenced car production by assembling Austin cars under licence. The Datsun 1000 was nothing more than an A40 with a body redesign. Datsun first entered the USA sportscar market in the mid-1960s with the 1600 Sports as well as 2.0-litre models but their entrants were very conventional and soon became dated. In the market place their robust but basic engines and stark two-seater styling failed to capture the hearts of the American motorist. The company realised, however, that the American market offered enormous potential and… Read more

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QASHQAI SETTLES IN TO KEEPING A GOOD NAME

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The Nissan Qashqai has led something of a double life since its birth a decade ago when it first came Down Under as the Nissan Dualis. Since then, as well as shedding diesel power and two seats, the Japanese crossover has played the name game, reverting to its original global moniker. Now, says Nissan, at the bidding of buyers, the Qashqai has been upgraded and the range simplified. Included are grades from the entry-level ST to mid-range ST-L and top-end Ti. However, because of manufacturing issues at the Nissan plant… Read more

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NEW LAND ROVER DISCOVERY IS THE BEST YET

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Almost 70 years ago the first ever Land Rover vehicle, the Series I, was launched at the 1948 Amsterdam Motor Show an event that the company will commemorate with what it has dubbed World Land Rover Day on the 30th of April. The original Land Rover was inspired by the iconic Willys Jeep that had proven itself during the Second World War and like it, was rugged and simple in both its appearance and performance. The first Land Rover Discovery was released in 1989 to occupy the very large gap… Read more

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NISSAN MAXIMA 2003 – 2014

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2003 Nissan Maxima

Nissan Maxima is a six-cylinder family car from Japan. The big Nissan can carry five adults if they don’t mind some shoulder rubbing. Mum, Dad and three kids works well. Maxima’s ride on roads is quiet and comfortable, almost in the limo class. However, it’s not quite as good on rough and course-chip surfaces as cars designed for Aussie roads. Handling is softer and less responsive than that of the local family cars, but are likely to suit most drivers. The Japanese giant is focussing purely on SUVs these days… Read more

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NEW 2018 BMW M5

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New BMW M5 has arrived Downunder and is fascinating in that it has the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system to give it full-on track day potential. Yet, if you push some different buttons it gives you the comfort expected of a luxurious high-speed sports sedan. Power from new M5 comes from the latest version of BMW’s 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine which generates 600 horsepower (441kW). Torque of a big 750 Nm is there from just 1800rpm and remains on tap the way to 5600rpm. Performance is rated to go from zero… Read more

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2018 SUZUKI SWIFT SPORT TURBO

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Hot-car lovers on a limited budget will just love the new Suzuki Swift Sport Turbo, the subject of this week’s road test. With a price tag of just $25,490 for the six-speed manual, and $27,490 for a six-speed auto, you get a lot of bang for your bucks To add to the sporty feel of the hot little Suzy we had it during the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games. The 11-day period meant our bright yellow machine felt right at home, being eager, exciting and enjoyable for every minute. Best of… Read more