CAR OF THE YEAR
98 whichcar.com.au/wheels
FINALIST
ROUND
TWO
Toyota Yaris
YARIS GROWS UP AS A
CLEAR-CUT, YET STILL ODDLY
COMPLICATED PROPOSITION
”Pushes the safety
envelope for the segment ...
and the tech envelope
with the hybrid”
ALEX INWODD
@wheelsaustralia 99
Variants tested Ascent Sport CVT, ZR Hybrid, GR As-tested prices $24,130, $33,050, $50,000 Warranty 5-year unlimited km
CAR OF THE YEAR T HE YARIS has grown so sophisticated it sparked a hybrid alternative manages a spectacular 3.3L/100km, while
philosophical debate about pricing versus value. also ushering in a creamy, muscular, electrified torque boost in
Just in case you missed the big news, the base the process.
grade now costs $7000 more than before at $22,130,
while the flagship ZR is now nearly $10K heavier Reliability and durability, long brand strengths, can probably
on your wallet. be assumed here, but from a driving perspective, the Yaris/Echo/
Buyers are already voting with their feet. By the end of Starlet lines have fell short at times, especially for refinement.
2020, sales had halved. Toyota’s response is that – with Yaris
adopting the Corolla’s TNGA platform technologies for dramatic The good news is that the latest Yaris chassis far exceeds
advances between the third and fourth generations – price hikes its modest engine outputs. Linear, well-weighted steering
are unavoidable. makes the most of the agile yet secure handling, resulting
in an endlessly chuckable supermini. In sudden-avoidance
From a COTY perspective, surely this would kill it on value manoeuvres, there’s a new-found fluency to the chassis, backed
grounds alone? Even a new Volkswagen Polo or Suzuki Swift up by a decent level of suspension absorption. Finally, there’s
cost $3K less. Time to dig a little deeper. something for keener drivers to sink their teeth into.
Yes, Yaris is now substantially more expensive. Adjusted for In contrast, the 55kg-heavier Hybrid isn’t as dynamic, but it is
inflation, the Ascent Sport costs $3300 more than the then-new noticeably quieter. Our Ascent Sport sounded hollow (but never
third-gen five-door equivalent did in 2011. tinny) over gravel – but then, at 1050kg, it is light, even by city-
car standards. Both are leagues ahead of the noisy old Yaris.
Yet, besides being usefully roomier, today’s model brings
eight airbags (including a segment-first front-row centre SRS), Finally, the smallest Toyota aces functionality, thanks to a
AEB with pedestrian/cyclist detection, secondary collision comparatively spacious cabin offering comfy (if somewhat
braking, adaptive cruise, auto high beam, road-sign recognition, too lofty for taller folk) seating, and featuring an attractively
active lane-keep and cornering, a central touchscreen with styled dash that’s on a par with current Euro alternatives. The
reverse camera, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and digital radio. instrumentation looks swish, too.
Specify a Polo accordingly and watch its pricing lead go poof!
That the boot capacity actually exceeds big-bro Corolla
The reality is, no new car democratises so much safety and hatchback’s is a bonus, but it’s far from being the class champ
technology. That’s three COTY criteria ticked off. here. And while we’re nit-picking, the base hubcaps are
disgraceful, rear-seat ambience falls short of the ZR Hybrid’s
Then there’s efficiency, thanks to the Yaris’s two all-new $32,100 ask, more sound-deadening wouldn’t go astray and the
powertrain choices, both provided by a 1.5-litre three-cylinder ESC gravel calibration borders on paranoia.
naturally aspirated petrol engine, available in 88kW/145Nm
(Ascent Sport) or 85kW/120Nm (ZR Hybrid) guises. Despite us seeing its intrinsic value, many buyers can’t or
won’t, and – feeling betrayed – will instead ignore Toyota’s best-
Whether via a natty six-speed manual or unobtrusive ever light car because of inaccessible pricing.
continuously variable transmission (CVT), this unit is a real
cracker, with a willing, unburstable nature to its power delivery Perhaps true democratisation can only occur if something’s
that never lets up, resulting in smooth, flexible performance. actually in reach of all, and that’s quite a rare misstep for
In Sport mode, the CVT even steps off the line like a normal Australia’s number one carmaker.
torque-converter auto, and can achieve a pleasing 4.9L/100km.
Cultivated as it now is, this is why the Yaris cannot quite
Yet the $2000 optional (starting in mid-level SX from $29,020) make it over the line to claim a COTY crown.
BYRON MATHIOUDAKIS
100 whichcar.com.au/wheels
dFeeorsnlaizgzno Hybrid is clever and efficient,
but hasn’t quite got the overall
“The regular five-door Yaris maturity to pull off a small-car (as
line-up sports a funky new look opposed to light-car) price tag
but I wouldn’t call it attractive.
The overall egg shape is fairly
inoffensive but the front face
is mostly a huge black grille
with twisty bits of body colour
surrounding it in an arbitrary
manner. The rear is more
successful with a generous
lamp graphic which stretches
across its full width. Overall,
it just seems a bit try-hard
and difficult to determine
which demographic Toyota is
chasing. The styling is youthful
but the new price tag is more
suited to older buyers looking
for an up-spec small car.”
Interior (above, middle) “The line-up waivers between
is spacious for the class, good and great, but needs to
and brimming with safety
be brilliant at this money”
equipment
ASH WESTERMAN
@wheelsaustralia 101
CAR OF THE YEAR
The GR Yaris’s reason for being is as a homologation
special for Toyota’s WRC efforts... and you get a little
badge to remind you of it. Interestingly, due to Covid-
related realities, the racer never actually raced
102 whichcar.com.au/wheels
HONOURABLE MENTION
Toyota GR Yaris
YARIS BREAKS AWAY, GOES GONZO, FINDS GREATNESS
I T’S AS IF the Yaris took a trip at an ’80s WRC after cheaper) Fiesta ST/Polo GTI hegemony with its raw and rabid
party with the Audi Quattro Sport, Lancia Delta HF power delivery, decisive gearshift and finely spaced ratios that
Integrale and Austin Metro 6R4, emerging days later allow the driver to exploit the frenetic little funster’s fruity,
still jacked and with only its original lights, mirrors flexible powerband.
and some dashboard bits intact.
Everything else about this Gazoo Racing Precision steering, handing verve and endless traction
homologation project is unique – from the aero-enhanced further underline GR’s singular vision, with the multi-mode
three-door, four-seater body, significantly more coupe-like AWD providing nuanced sideways scenery once this all-
(think original Honda CRX) carbonfibre-roofed silhouette and weather wonder’s grip eventually releases. Supernatural fun
aluminium doors, bonnet and hatch, to a Corolla/C-HR rear aplenty awaits along with big smiles.
platform, complete with multi-link suspension.
Conversely, there’s disarming docility, decent comfort,
At the other end is a fierce 200kW/370Nm 1.6-litre three-pot quality materials and full safety tech. And the frameless
turbo/six-speed manual combo, providing a dazzling 156kW/ doors, ‘Shooting Brake’ glasshouse, low ceiling and
tonne power-to-weight ratio and 5.2sec 0-100km/h capability. cramped legroom are pure coupe tropes. A tiny boot, dreary
instruments, nosebleed seating and missing return-position
Permanent all-wheel-drive tech includes a 50/50 front/ memory during rear-seat entry/egress annoy, in this otherwise
rear torque-split Track mode, 30/70 front/rear in Sport and incandescent motoring experience.
70/30 front/rear in Normal, though 100 percent either way is
possible, backed up by beefy brakes. If the $50K ask irks, consider that Subaru’s Impreza WRX in
1994 cost $80K in today’s dollars, putting the sub-supercar GR
Ultimately, splitting the GR from the regular Yaris is a Yaris into sharp focus.
no-brainer for Wheels COTY. How could we not? Insanely fun
on dirt in skilled hands and yet still flattering even with an It’s the affordable, sensational, unhinged WRC weapon we
ape behind the wheel, the GR upends the (admittedly much thought we’d never see in this millennium.
BYRON MATHIOUDAKIS
“It’s comparable to the Honda Civic Type R
for driving experience... and enjoyment”
ALEX INWOOD
Editor Campbell wonders if
it’s too late to get a WRC gig
after playing in the dirt. Yes,
it’s as much fun as it looks
@wheelsaustralia 103
CAR OF THE YEAR
104 whichcar.com.au/wheels
TWENTY
CAR OF THE YEAR
THE
CHAMP
IT TOOK MAZDA TO BUILD
A COMPACT SUV OF REAL
DEPTH AND ABILITY; ONE
LARGELY DEVOID OF THE
COMPROMISES THAT HAVE
EXISTED IN THIS SEGMENT
FROM ITS INCEPTION
@wheelsaustralia 105
CAR OF THE YEAR ‘U NANIMITY’ CAN BE a tricky word to say; one. Mazda has clearly designed the CX-30 as a crossover,
much harder to achieve. In an increasingly rather than a more pragmatic, boxy SUV, effectively making
divided and opinionated world, getting a it a higher-riding (by 25mm) wagon version of the Mazda 3
disparate group of individuals to form a on which it’s based. No-one could argue with the logic, even
unilateral consensus on anything can be if it does bring a few potential compromises to packaging.
near-impossible. The COTY judging process Headroom in the rear is only just adequate for six-footers, and
is often no exception, yet for 2021, in a rare moment of the boot, at 317 litres, is on the small side for this class.
great(ish) minds thinking alike, all six members of the
judging panel cast their vote for the winner you see here. “I’m okay with that,” conceded DC. “I think a comparatively
There would be no split decision, no recasting, no blow-ups small boot like this is probably more a theoretical disadvantage
or toys thrown out of the pram. The Mazda CX-30 is the 2021 for most people rather than a regular real-world annoyance.
Wheels Car of the Year, and all of us agreed on it. For me, the exterior celebrates design and style; unlike rivals,
where design feels like more an obligation.”
For Mazda, it’s one hell of an achievement, and takes the
company’s tally to nine COTY victories since the award’s Byron was also quick to point out a design advantage held
inception in 1963, putting the Hiroshima-based brand only by the CX-30 over the related 3: “That the six-light glass area
one win behind Holden as the award’s most successful means more light floods in than in the 3. And I really like the
manufacturer of all time. (Hot tip for those who enjoy a punt: extra splashes of colour for a change inside a Mazda – navy
Mazda has the better odds compared to the Lion brand to blue or brown as contrasts to the black on most variants; it
increase its haul...) gives a nice lift to the ambience.”
So where exactly does the CX-30’s brilliance lie? Well, that The three variants we had on test gave the judges a solidly
warrants deeper dissection, because that’s arguably what it indicative sample of the nine-strong CX-30 line-up. Our least-
doesn’t have: an area of true breakthrough brilliance. The old expensive tester was the G20 Evolve FWD (one model up from
expression ‘jack of all trades; master of none’ used to be one of base Pure) with its 2.0-litre atmo four/six-speed auto combo,
denigration; a suggestion that a worker was versatile yet lacked priced at $31,490. In the middle sat the G25 Touring, powering
an area of true speciality. In the case of the CX-30, it’s actually its front wheels by the 2.5-litre four tied to the six-speed auto,
the highest compliment we can deliver it. As we’ll outline here, and priced at $36,490. Topping our trio was the CX-30 flagship;
the key to its COTY success was not a couple areas of pure the X20 Astina, driving all four wheels by the new Skyactiv-X
genius; instead it scored solidly against all five criteria, and 2.0-litre petrol compression-ignition engine, priced at $46,490.
resolutely did not drop the ball in any measurable area.
It was broadly agreed that that the top-spec X20 Astina
Speaking more broadly about its appeal, perhaps editor doesn’t represent the CX-30 line-up at its best, so let’s address
DC said it best: “For me, the CX-30 is a car that democratises the value question first, as it’s clear that the CX-30 doesn’t
luxury; it has a level of craftsmanship not evident in rivals. You attempt to lure customers into the showroom via a bargain-
sense the passion and commitment that’s gone into it, making basement price tag. Cheapest model in the line-up is the $28,990
it feel like a treat every time you get in.” Pure with a six-speed manual, a model with loads of appeal but
won’t find favour with many Aussies. Cross-shopping the CX-30
That over-arching sentiment started to flow from the moment against the Mazda 3 on which it’s based sees the Japanese-built
the judges really crawled around and through the car on day CX-30 some $3500 dearer than the corresponding 3 Pure.
“Lovely steering and control…
fun to drive, great brakes. Impressive”
DYLAN CAMPBELL
106 whichcar.com.au/wheels
Beautiful attention to detail and a
perception of premium-ness helped
the CX-30 to COTY victory
@wheelsaustralia 107
CAR OF THE YEAR Cockpit doesn’t attempt to be
unconventional for the sake of it; instead
concentrates on nailing the fundamentals
while imparting a real sense of quality
108 whichcar.com.au/wheels
“Chassis delivers supple
ride; good body control.
Fab refinement, too”
ALEX INWOOD
It’s a sizeable hike, given the similarities in equipment, conditions that Wheels achieved of around 5.7L/100km (actually
but the judges still felt that within this segment, the CX-30 less than its official combined number of 6.0L/100km) was
delivered decent vale for money against the likes of rivals like commendable in context of its performance.
the Kia Seltos, Honda HR-V and Toyota C-HR. “If it wore a
premium badge, it would be considered a bargain,” said Inwood. Overall, though, DC was just one judge left a little
underwhelmed by the Skyactiv-X engine: “It doesn’t have the level
Byron went a step further after being a bit underwhelmed by of torque in the step-off phase I was expecting, and nor is does it
the interior finishes of the Mercedes-Benz GLB, drawing on his have an appreciably more eager and sparkling top-end,” our editor
bottomless well of pop-culture references: “It’s like the CX-30 reckoned. Robbo, too, raised the issue of the X’s high-rpm noise. So
and GLB have had a Freaky Friday moment, where the Mazda without a major gain in efficiency over the conventional G-series
feels like a Mercedes and the Mercedes feels like a Mazda.” 2.0-litre, the judging panel was left questioning if the output
gains were enough, especially when considering the hefty price
As for powertrains, both in performance and efficiency, the premium attached to the new-tech engine.
CX-30 managed a decent pass mark from the judges, rather
than any glowing distinctions. The two mainstream engines are Byron brought some balance to the debate by pointing
well-developed and effective, but very conventional, and haven’t out that this was very much a new technology well short of
evolved significantly from those in the previous-generation maturity, and that there was more to come: “This year there’s
Mazda 3 on which they’re based. The six-speed automatics, too, an update that will bump outputs by 8kW/16Nm, so totals
don’t break any boundaries. Could all three powertrains make of 140kW/240Nm,” our walking automotive oracle reminded
good use of an eight-speed transmission? Probably. But the fact everyone. Good point, but the takeout was that while Mazda is
this trio performs well, are not thirsty, and can deliver a decent to be applauded for developing new tech with the potential to
level of driver satisfaction when stirred along, was enough to extend the effective life of the ICE engine, the X’s real-world
redress the lack of innovation. benefits at this point aren’t massive, and it remains to be seen if
the Skyactiv-X can really introduce a step-change to push it well
“Compared to the 2.0-litre, the 2.5-litre has appreciably more clear of the larger, conventional 2.5-litre engine.
oomph, especially as you floor it with the engine’s revs in the
mid-range, making it a deceptively fast and punchy performer,” Regardless, any judge who completed our demanding test
noted Byron. “But with both, you just need to be willing to flex loop in any of the CX-30 variants had plenty of positives
your right foot regularly.” to share, especially in the fundamentals of core dynamic
competence, suppression of road noise (once a real Mazda weak
As for the Skyactiv-X, Mazda originally suggested this engine, spot) and willing, engaging character when the pace was ramped
which uses a supercharger and high compression to provide up. The dirt-road testing, too, showed Mazda really knows its
what the company calls Spark Controlled Compression Ignition stuff when it comes to ESC and ABS calibrations, delivering
(SPCCI), would be around 15 percent more frugal than the one of the most engaging chassis to push to the limit without
regular 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G engine (with a combined ADR excessive intrusion.
figure of 6.5L/100km) but our real-world testing has seen them
closer to par. Still, given the X’s increased outputs, there was Inwood reflected the broader consensus when he said of the G20:
acknowledgment that its real-world consumption in mixed “Not the strongest engine, but adequately isolated and not coarse.”
@wheelsaustralia 109
CAR OF THE YEAR Variants tested G20 Evolve FWD, G25 Touring FWD, X20 Astina AWD As-tested prices $31,685, $37,180, $47,180 Warranty 5-year unlimited km
As one of the three finalists driven away from the proving charge extra for. The latter, by the way, even runs to a quality
ground, the CX-30 still had to prove itself with four adults on head-up display, sat-nav and digital radio – from the entry-level
board. Mazda’s crossover will be right-sized for families with two grade up. “You could happily spend under $30K and not feel
sub-teen kids, but that doesn’t mean it’s purgatory for adults in like you’re missing out,” said Byron.
the back. I’m six foot tall, and had just enough room behind a
few of the judges on the roads around Lorne. Personally I found Which starts to swing the conversation around to the CX-30’s
the rear seat base, backrest angle, toe room, and visibility, all technological advances, where the judges agreed that this was
perfectly acceptable. The lack of USB ports in the back is a an area in which it was sound, rather than bringing anything
miss, but running an extension cable from the port in the centre especially revolutionary to the segment. (Apart from the
console box is a largely painless workaround. Skyactiv-X engine, of course...)
As for safety, it probably goes without saying that the The multimedia system, as one example, comprises an 8.8-
CX-30 aces a five-star ANCAP rating, but dig a little deeper inch stand-alone screen; not huge, but large enough for decent
and you’ll see it achieves a record-high 99 percent adult legibility of all the functions. But the fact it’s controller-based,
occupant protection score in the Euro NCAP tests. not a touchscreen, means it won’t find universal favour. “Doesn’t
exactly feel cutting edge compared to say, the very latest
All models include seven airbags (dual-front for driver and smartphone-style designs offered elsewhere, such as in the Kia
passenger, driver’s knee, side and curtain for all outboard Seltos,” noted Byron. The lack of a wireless smartphone charger,
occupants), as well as an alphabet soup of safety-related and the use of USB-C ports were two areas that the judges
acronyms listed here in Mazda-speak. These are: AEB reckoned Mazda had room for improvement.
(Autonomous Emergency Braking), Driver Attention Alert
(DAA), Emergency Stop Signal (ESS), Forward Obstruction But multimedia/connectivity is just one – admittedly highly
Warning (FOW), Hill Launch Assist (HLA), Lane Departure visible – example of the CX-30’s tech story. Elsewhere, under the
Warning (LDW), Lane-keep Assist System (LAS), Rear Cross skin, the depth and effectiveness of the safety suite was deemed
Traffic Alert (RCTA), Smart Brake Support – Rear (SBS-R), sufficient to boost the Mazda’s score back up to a solid pass.
Smart Brake Support – Rear Crossing (SBS-RC), Smart Brake
Support (SBS), and Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR). There’s also When time came for final votes to be cast, it required one
radar cruise control with stop/go functionality, rear parking of the shorter durations for decision-making in recent COTY
sensors and a 360-degree view reverse camera on all grades. history. So while this period of 2020-’21 will be remembered as
a time when the world got very sick, it will also go down as the
In other words, every CX-30 includes as standard a level of point where Mazda pulled the compact SUV into rude health.
safety and driver-assist functionality that most other brands
ASH WESTERMAN
110 whichcar.com.au/wheels
dFeeorsnlaizgzno
“Designers will always tell you that it all starts with good proportion, and to create stylish proportions
usually means there has to be a compromise somewhere. Mazda is clearly aiming the CX-30 at buyers
looking for more style, and prepared to make small compromises for the privilege. In this case, the
compromise is in the rear, with less room in the back seat and cargo space than a boxier competitor. But
it’s the rear styling of this car that really makes it look great and Mazda hasn’t let the pendulum swing
too far to make it impractical. The black wheelarch mouldings are a touch too tall for my liking, but
overall, I think they’ve got the balance just right. The interior, too, is a triumph; rich and classy without
obvious penny-pinching. I’d be proud to be able to say I designed this car.”
“Forgot I was in an SUV. This thing
just tries so hard to please”
TIM ROBSON
@wheelsaustralia 111
Mad scientists
A GLIMPSE BEHIND-THE-SCENES AT WHEELS CAR OF THE YEAR 2021
I T WAS MERELY hours into COTY 2021 before the former design director of Holden who brings insight, not
impact of COVID-19 would be felt. Veteran judge just regarding design, but a deep manufacturing knowledge,
Byron Mathioudakis, here attending his 11th- enlightening us on just how challenging some design decisions
consecutive year, was the first to show symptoms would have been to get past the bean counters. Prior to this we
of this insidious virus. Not actual physical sickness all knew we were a bit suss about bean counters, but Richard
symptoms; no, more seriously, a downcast demeanour confirms it – they really are carrying out Satan’s work.
realising he would have to kerb his natural inclination for
skipping around and randomly hugging his fellow judges The walk-arounds take place in a large dusty shed, not
and the production crew after a year apart. the most sexy part of the COTY process, but essential; a bit
like getting to know your dinner date before holding hands
Some of us – okay, me – actually realise we miss Byron’s and sharing a romantic walk on the beach. Or in our case, a
affections, so at one point very early in proceedings, I consider tortured flogging around the proving ground, with barely a
pinching the petty cash tin to head into town to buy him a thank-you slap on the rump.
haz-mat suit and a respirator, just so some semblance of high-
contact normality can resume. As well as an opportunity to fully understand why, exactly,
each model made it to the 10-car shortlist, it’s also a chance to
There’s no question the threat of a communicable disease really drink in the details, some delightful, some perplexing.
weighs heavy on every single one of the 16-man testing and Everyone seems to agree on the brilliant execution of the
production team. At one point, as we stand in a large group Defender, which skilfully blends a retro, respective nod to its
for a briefing, I stifle a sneeze behind my face mask. In unison, predecessor while moving the materials, infotainment and
every person jumps two feet in the air, scatters, and starts overall tech right into the moment. Although when I glance
making signs of the cross at me. Liquid hits my face. Was the at the pricing and options of our single test example, I can’t
first drops of rain? Or did someone just flick holy water on me? help but wonder if the person at JLR speccing the press fleet
had been drug-tested recently: it has nearly $4000 worth of
Tough crowd. As you’ll have read earlier, the judging panel premium metallic paint, now hidden under a $6500 satin wrap.
is down to six members, and, for the first time anyone can Hmm, pass that spliff, you loose unit.
remember, there’s not a single female amongst our ranks.
Oddly, there’s only a marginal increase in fart jokes. We take a short break to have a proper sniff over the obscure
old canvass-topped VW Country Buggy parked nearby that
We welcome the COTY debut of Richard Ferlazzo, the
112 whichcar.com.au/wheels
The glasses are worth
a tenth of a second on
any acceleration run
Editor Campbell’s cunning plan to
overcome excessive traction in the
GR Yaris spoiling his drag-strip runs
”Hold still, Byron, so I can
prove you really do have
hair growing out your ears”
Below: Inwood and the video
crew, moments before he
stormed off to his trailer because
they shot “his bad side”
All right, Ferlazzo, you’re making
the rest of us look bad
belongs to event photographer Cristian Brunelli. The Big Bru the test and video crew become genuinely perplexed when
has proved he’s the hard man of classic dungers by driving he starts tipping drinking water under the tyres, claiming
this screenless implement of torture all the way here from his an excess of traction is blame. Eventually he just gets the
home in Sorrento on the tip of the peninsular. He’s still picking clutch dump and first-to-second shift right, and the little
the flies out of his teeth on day three, but our admiration all-paw Toyota fires off the mark like a stabbed rat, but he
continues for weeks. never becomes more than a red blob in my peripheral vision,
as my 4 Series blatts off into the scenery.
We don’t have the facility to ourselves. Nearby, a steady
stream of car transporters start rolling in, each carrying Throughout all this, the steady methodology of the COTY
a scruffy E46-generation BMW 3 Series. Theories abound process continues to march us, one step at a time, towards our
as to their purpose, until someone from our team actually top three to take away from the PG.
approaches the crew of fit-looking blokes in cargo pants and
combat boots who appear to be their custodians. We learn Mechanical carnage is mercifully limited this year. Only a
they’re part of some police special-forces division, and the flexi marker post, clipped by a hard-charging Robbo in the
BMWs are about to be ragged senseless on a dirt handling BMW M440i, blights an otherwise clean copybook. Robbo
track as the cops complete advanced slide-control training. apologises, but then trots out the old ‘Team Manager’ line,
which claims it’s easier to slow down a fast driver than speed up
The following day, every one the BMWs sports grazes on a slow one. Dylan just quietly asks him to stop hitting things.
the driver’s front quarter and off-side rear quarter. Turns out
their training also involved deliberate contact to ram each Our logistics and catering guru is Diamond Dave Harding,
other out of the way, and practice the skills needed to recover who paces himself to perfection over the three evenings
from a colleague-inflicted 3 Series shoulder charge. Every that dinner needs to be served on-site at the proving ground.
judge immediately has the same thought – these jammy DDH plays himself in gently on night one, serving up a
cops are possibly having even more fun than we are, which solid but unremarkable chicken and chips. He turns the
is unheard of and simply not bloody on. Some of us consider heat up on night two with an excellent Mexican spread,
a career change; every one of us starts daydreaming about but by night three he’s properly firing, and has organised a
buying a cheap E46 as a drift car. local restaurant to deliver slow-roasted lamb shoulder with
garnishes and side dishes that are unprecedented in COTY
In the late afternoon of day two, the video crew need history, like toasted sage leaves and Middle Eastern-style
something to justify the expensive drone they begged the roasted cauliflower with pomegranates. Pomegranates! It’s
accountants to approve, so a group drag race is organised. like a scene from The Castle, as room echoes with a chorus
Someone in a position of authority tells me to drive the directed at Dave: “What do you call these, love?”
BMW M440i, meaning I’m gifted the field’s horsepower
hero and I get to bask in the glory of victory for the 20 runs C’mon people. They are weird little pink seeds called arils
required to get the perfect take. Editor Campbell is in the from a fruit-bearing deciduous shrub with the scientific name
GR Yaris, and endures a torrent of trash talk after a couple of Punicoideae that originated in the region now called Iran.
of fluffed attempts to launch the AWD pocket rocket as Everyone knows that. But don’t get too attached to them,
the rest of the field sprints away. He has the full quiver of because the chances of them appearing on the menu next year
drag-racer excuses – “the dog ate my line-locker; I’m waiting are zero. Hopefully by then normal transmission will have
for the strip ‘to come to me’” – but the collective faces of resumed. Okay, poor choice of phrase.
ASH WESTERMAN
@wheelsaustralia 115
MAKE YOUR MACH
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Garage
WE DRIVE ’EM LIKE WE OWN ’EM
KIA GENESIS FORD
SORENTO GV80 PUMA
NEW CARS PUT
THROUGH THE
WRINGER
PLUS
118GARAGE 124DATABANK 146 DRIVEN TO
Sorento departs to The hard numbers EXTINCTION
fight 100 giraffes; and ultimate guide Fiat tried to add a
GV80’s paint causes to every new spicy meatball to the
anxiety; Puma, and its passenger car on MX-5, but the 124
owner, exit stage left sale in Australia Spider failed to fire
v @wheelsaustralia 117
PAGE
PAGE
PAGE
Garage
REPORT
FOUR
KIA SORENTO GT-LINE W E WERE about the stature of the dog-sized ‘gee-
20 minutes north raffs’, as she pronounced them, wasn’t
Price as tested $64,990 (driveaway) of Newcastle, specified. Were we talking fox-terrier-
This month 1203km @ 8.9L/100km me and the Kia sized? Or would I be dealing with
Sorento, cruise 100 mastif-sized giraffes coming at
Total 3299km @ 9.0L/100km control holding me as one angry herd? I’d need more
us at an indicated 110km/h, the diesel thinking time on this one.
RIGHT MOVES, four barely audible as it sipped at an
BUT IT’S STILL indicated 7.2 litres per 100km. I was One thing I didn’t need to ponder
TIME TO GO gathering together my final thoughts was the fact that the Sorento’s
on Kia’s seven-seater, helped by a impending departure would leave a
DEPARTING SORENTO MAKES cranking Tidal playlist via Apple real hole. As motoring enthusiasts,
ITS CASE AS THE BEST CAR IN CarPlay, when a WhatsAp message I think we’re largely in agreeance
pinged through from one of my more that a large wagon beats a large
KIA’S AUSTRALIAN LINE-UP cerebral, deep-thinking mates. The SUV every time, however, if you
Apple assistant helpfully asked if I’d occasionally need those extra two
like her to read it, which I did. third-row seats, there simply isn’t a
wagon on the Aussie market that can
In her slightly staccato delivery, deliver such a layout. Further, I’ve
she said, “What would you prefer to grudgingly come around to the fact
fight: A giraffe-sized dog, or 100 dog- that an SUV’s extra ground clearance
sized giraffes?” is useful for dealing with urban
obstacles like steep driveways and
It was a tricky one, especially as
118 whichcar.com.au/wheels
Above: Sounds of Nature feature didn’t get much of a run reckon it’s a fraction too nibbly and become fractionally less noticeable
during our tenure; not when the Bose system knows how to reactive at suburban speeds, but in as the odo has moved past 5000km,
rock. Cabin scores highly for presentation and functionality touring mode, the chassis has great yet is still an area that deserves some
absorbency and real composure. developmental attention.
parking space front kerbs.
So with that established, the other The safety stuff was less equivocal. But the fact that I don’t have
Rear-cross traffic alert was frequently a laundry list of areas that could
irrefutable fact is that the Sorento useful, but I found the lane-keep benefit from attention – apart from
really is a great family touring wagon. function too intrusive and inconsistent, the lack of the third-row airbags and
It’s brilliantly quiet, calm and long- and requires a dig into sub menus on engine NVH tweaking – is testament
legged on a road trip, with a range each start-up to disable it. to how well Kia has nailed the seven-
of around 850km. But more than just seater SUV brief in the Sorento’s
that is the fact it has so few flaws to Of the extra equipment that comes fourth generation, at least with the
annoy you. The front seats are super with this GT-Line spec, it was the diesel AWD line-up.
comfortable and supportive, and with Bose audio I appreciated most. Like
both heating and cooling, one’s butt any good system it’s super revealing Hopefully the arrival of the hybrid-
is always temperate. Everything from of the source material, so DAB radio petrol model will allow Kia to more
the HVAC, to the nav, to the head-up sounds good but not amazing. Stream completely take the fight to Mazda’s
display, works exactly as it should. high-resolution content, though, and CX-9. Meanwhile, I’m preparing for
it comes alive, with great punch, a hypothetical combat with 100 very
The steering is nicely calibrated to convincing soundstage and properly small giraffes. But they’ll have to
provide a decent sense of connection solid, tight bass. bring the battle to me, because I’m
to the road, but is also never flighty without a car right now.
or nervous, no matter what the road As for the slightly vibey idle I
condition. As for the ride, I still moaned about in my first update, it’s ASH WESTERMAN
@wheelsaustralia 119
Garage REPORT
THREE
GENESIS GV80 3.5T AWD realise that the fleeting flash of individual but will typically involve:
brown and green that I caught just happily parking further away to
Price as tested $120,600 prior to impact was actually that of snag an isolated spot (or better yet,
This month 1187km @ 11.3L/100km a medium-sized branch. Blown free one between two cement poles),
of its perch in the gumtree canopy habitually scanning the sides of the
Overall 4090km @ 11.5L/100km that skirted the edge of the road, the car for door dings/trolley bumps,
branch collided with such fury that drifting to the left of your lane to
MATTE it felt as though it came screaming avoid stone chips from oncoming
POINT in from low orbit rather than a few trucks, and happily practising the
metres above us. ‘two bucket method’ when giving
IT’S A PERNICKETY PAINT your car a tub.
FINISH, BUT IS IT ENOUGH TO “What the...” I thought, before:
“THE PAINT!” I’ll admit to all of the above,
TAKE THE GLOSS OFF? though the special grey paint on
Now there are all sorts of special this Genesis has sent my paranoia
B ANG! The unidentified paranoia that comes with car into overdrive. Hyundai calls it
object slams onto the ownership. At the extreme end ‘Melbourne Grey’ and its matte
bonnet with such a live a unique breed of enthusiasts finish is a $2000 option. I’m a big
resounding thud that it who refuse to drive their cars at all fan. Unlike other matte finishes,
makes everyone in the (“Clouds look grey, it might rain” and this one seems to include a fleck
Genesis jump. Cruising “Lots of loose stones about, might of metallic and the way it catches
as we are down a typical suburban get a stone chip” is the default logic the light (especially in the golden
street, it takes me a moment to here), but most of us tend to operate hours of sunrise and sunset) is really
in a zone a few steps back from that. something. You need to see it.
The degree of paranoia varies on the
120 whichcar.com.au/wheels
‘Melbourne Grey’ matte paint finish is $2000; may give you not possible... the vehicle will need specialist will rectify the ding.
grey hairs maintaining it, as it can’t be polished or retouched to be repainted”. Cursing my rotten luck and
Less endearing are the care Needing to keep it clean, but not shaking my fist at the sky, I try to
instructions. Hyundai has a special too clean (easy with the sponge, take solace in the knowledge that the
document specifically for this paint Alex!) has seen me resort to carrying rest of the GV80 experience has been
finish and they initially sound a bucket and cloth in the boot so I smooth sailing. Three months and
innocuous enough – don’t use any can spring into action whenever I 4000km into our loan, the Genesis
polishing agents or waxes, must see a dirty spot or well-aimed bird is fulfilling the role of sumptuous
hand wash with a soft cloth, and dropping. This has not made me super-sized SUV admirably.
clean off any blemishes or bird dirt popular with the missus who cringes
immediately, etc. However, then with embarrassment whenever I pull The cabin feels as tightly screwed
you reach this very ominous line: out the bucket in a public space. together as it did on day one, there
“Do NOT rub the finish vigorously, are no rattles or squeaks, and
as this will burnish the paint finish Seriously, though, the level of despite its initially confusing-looking
causing a permanent shiny spot. anxiety the paint has caused hasn’t infotainment interface (“It looks like
These cannot be removed”. been worth it (definitely go for the a Lexus system” remarked a friend)
gloss if buying your own GV80), so I have encountered exactly zero
Then it drives home the kicker: you can appreciate my wide eyes ergonomic frustrations or moments
“Any problem that may arise from when the branch hit. of hesitation while looking for a
neglecting the instructions will not function. All of this makes it an easy
be covered by warranty. Any defects Mercifully the paint was unbroken car, ahem, SUV to like. Or in my
cannot be repaired as polishing, but the piece of wood had hit hard case, to inevitably worry about while
buffing, and small paint repairs are enough to cause a dent about the washing and parking.
size of a five-cent piece. Hopefully a
visit from a paintless dent removal ALEX INWOOD
@wheelsaustralia 121
Garage
FORD PUMA ST-LINE F EELS a bit ironic, unlock itself without me having to
actually... As I sign off push a button.
Price as tested $36,140 on my two-decade-long
This month 441km @ 7.3L/100km automotive journalistic That in itself is perfectly okay –
stint to move into the but why oh why can the same key
Total 5135km @ 6.9L/100km car industry proper, I’m then remotely operate the bloody
a little bemused by the fact that the start button inside the cabin?
LAST DRINKS last car I’ll officially drive on the
job is Ford’s Puma. It’s a car I had There is a way around it, and it’s
FORD’S SMALL SUV EXITS STAGE high designs on, too... but personally, one that the teens in the Robbo
LEFT, WHILE ITS CUSTODIAN despite the relative praise received household enjoy; the Puma can
during our Car of the Year 2021 be unlocked with one’s suitably
ALSO CALL IT QUITS. WILL THEY testing, the little Puma is very much app-equipped smartphone. Called
MISS EACH OTHER? not my cup of tea. FordPass, the app requires a mere
moment of the car’s time to do its
Plopped into the burgeoning small internet-y things before turning into
SUV arms race like an unwanted a pseudo keypad for the Fiesta-based
puppy, the turbo three-pot Puma Puma. It can give you odometer
has unfortunately disappointed figures, a fuel reading, the car’s
me at almost every turn – and I’m location and its tyre pressures, too,
reminded of that failing every time along with a searchable copy of your
I pause for the damn door to unlock owner’s manual.
with a sensor key that won’t actually
It can also remotely lock and
unlock the doors, yes, if you hold the
122 whichcar.com.au/wheels
requisite button down on your phone Puma rides on a stretched version of the Fiesta platform and is The nothing-then-everything brake
for quite a long time. It can also start a tidy performer in terms of chassis dynamics, but Robbo finds pedal ratio, the dragster-like take-
the car from a distance, should you reason to grumble in terms of steering and braking off from rest and imprecise, floaty
want to cool things down inside – but steering feel from centre... in a class
this is predicated on whether you’ve accidentally drop your device in the where it needs to match up to cars
got the correct level of cooling set up sea, you are pretty firmly stuck. And like the Mazda CX-3 and Kia Stonic,
in the car beforehand. you wouldn’t have been stuck if you just to name two, the Puma just
hadn’t used the app, right? needs to be better. It’s got a strong
One can’t, sadly, simply drop engine, sure, and the dual-clutch
all four windows by holding the I complained at length last month gearbox is a good match at cruising
unlock button down – almost my about the brake pedal feel (in short, speeds, but the too-short first gear
favourite use of a key fob button not great), and I have similar feelings and often aggressive initial clutch
ever – to let hot air out, which would about the steering response and engagement really spoils things.
have involved, I’m sure, a lot less take-off acceleration.
computer programming. So I’ll sign off from this, my last
These three items put together are ever car review for this august
One can, somewhat disturbingly, the quintessential basics to get right journal, with a recommendation;
lock one’s keys inside the car using in a small urban crossover. There are have a good, hard think about what
the smartphone app, though – which no ifs, buts or maybes; it’s what a you’re looking for in a small SUV,
seems like a really, really bad idea to customer feels on a test drive and it’s and if you do come back around to
me. I’ve tried locking the keys in, and what they feel every day. the Ford Puma, don’t say I didn’t
it’s an absolute possibility. tell you so. Over and out.
It’s almost impossible, in fact, to be
If your next move is to allow your smooth at the controls of the Puma. TIM ROBSON
phone to run out of charge or to
@wheelsaustralia 123
bank
+
VEHICLE PRICES, SPECS & REVIEWS EVERY MONTH
Price
Engine
type
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weight
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Price
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type
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weight
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tested
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Alfa Romeo 5 years/150,000km
DB11
Giulietta A luxo grand tourer that emits pure sex appeal from its exhaust tips.
Hefty weight hurts its dynamics, but those looks, right?
THE PICK: AMR is a beautifully sorted sports tourer
Circa-2011 front-drive VW Golf rival majors on rorty fun and oozes Coupe $382,495 V8TT 4.0 375 675 A8 1760 4.0 9.9 98 - R
personality, but feels cramped and dated. Production ends this year Volante
THE PICK: Soon to be dead; haggle hard for a deal on the one you want AMR $406,495 V8TT 4.0 375 675 A8 1870 4.0 11.4 98 - R
Super TCT $35,950 L4T 1.4 125 250 D6 1284 7.7 4.9 95 44 F Volante $437,400 V12TT 5.2 470 700 A8 1870 3.7 11.4 98 - R
Veloce TCT
$42,950 L4T 1.7 177 340 D6 1299 6.0 6.8 95 46 F DBX DBS Superleggera
Sport
Veloce Giulia Makes a convincing case as the world’s most beautiful super-GT.
Quadrifoglio Stunning opulence and excessive torque, though it’s no Ferrari 812SF
Quadrifoglio towers as an M3 terroriser while all soar dynamically, but THE PICK: Aston’s beguiling flagship true to the marque
Coupe reliability niggles and quality glitches keep Alfa’s best from greatness
Spider THE PICK: Remember: spend more and the more glorious the Giulia gets $536,900 V12TT 5.2 533 900 A8 1693 3.4 12.3 95 - 09/18 R
Petrol $63,950 L4T 2.0 147 330 A8 1394 6.6 6.0 95 51 R $570,200 V12TT 5.2 533 900 A8 1863 3.6 14 98 - R
Diesel
Ti $71,450 L4T 2.0 206 400 A8 1490 5.7 6.1 95 52 06/17 R DBX
Q
$138,950 V6TT 2.9 375 600 A8 1585 4.4 8.2 95 52 04/17 R All-important Aston SUV hailed as a potential saviour for the brand.
B5 Sedan Debuts a new platform and a more powerful tune of AMG’s V8TT
B5 Touring 4C THE PICK: You can buy two AMG GLC 63s for this money...
Pure Styling, focused dynamics and sexy carbon tub offset by charmless $357,000 V8TT 4.0 405 700 A9 2245 4.5 14.3 98 - 09/20 A
Legende four-pot, snappy handling and steep pricing. Production has ended
THE PICK: Get in while stock remains in dealers Audi
Coupe
Roadster $89,000 L4T 1.7 177 350 D6 1025 4.5 6.8 95 55 02/15 R 3 years/unlimited
$99,000 L4T 1.7 177 350 D6 1035 4.6 6.8 95 55 06/15 R A1
Stelvio Audi’s second-gen baby has grown and gained a higher-tech cabin and
supermodel looks, but cheapo trim and high pricing undermine it
Takes Giulia’s brilliance and squanders it somewhat. Steering too THE PICK: 40 TFSI for its slick performance – or related VW Polo GTI
fast for some, cabin quality poor. Ballistic Q the only real winner
THE PICK: Stelvio impasse? Join the Q 30 TFSI $32,750 L3T 1.0 85 200 D7 1125 9.4 5.4 95 53 F
$65,900 L4T 2.0 148 330 A8 1619 7.2 7.0 95 57 02/19 A 35 TFSI $35,290 L4T 1.5 110 250 D7 1165 7.7 5.8 95 54 02/20 F
$67,900 L4TD 2.2 154 470 A8 1620 6.6 4.8 D 57 10/18 A 40 TFSI $46,450 L4T 2.0 147 320 D6 1260 6.5 6.4 95 54 13/19 F
$78,900 L4T 2.0 206 400 A8 1619 5.7 7.0 95 55 02/19 A A3
$149,900 V6TT 2.9 375 600 A8 1830 3.8 10.2 95 59 03/18 A About to be replaced with an all-new A3, so bargains should be afoot.
Still, a recent range refresh was welcome and RS3 remains a highlight
Alpina 3 years/200,000km THE PICK: If your budget allows, RS3 is an evocative delight
35 TFSI S Line $43,300 L4T 1.4 110 250 D7 1240 8.2 5.1 95 54 F
B5 35 TFSI S Line sedan $44,900 L4T 1.4 110 250 D7 1250 8.2 5.0 95 55 F
Addresses our minor reservations about the latest M5. How does 35 TFSI S Line cabriolet $52,400 L4T 1.4 110 250 D7 1380 8.9 5.2 95 55 F
Alpina manage that with a staff of just over 100?
THE PICK: Touring wagon offers what no M5 sedan can 40 TFSI S Line $49,300 L4T 2.0 140 320 D7 1315 6.8 6.0 95 55 F
$210,000 V8TT 4.4 447 800 A8 1894 3.5 10.5 98 50 A 40 TFSI S Line sedan $50,900 L4T 2.0 140 320 D7 1320 6.8 5.9 95 55 F
$217,000 V8TT 4.4 447 800 A8 2120 3.7 11.1 98 50 10/19 A 40 TFSI S Line cabriolet $58,400 L4T 2.0 140 320 D7 1430 7.2 6.1 95 55 F
XD3 40 TFSI quattro S Line $52,900 L4T 2.0 140 320 D7 1385 6.2 6.1 95 56 A
While Australia misses out on the quad-turbo monster, diesel beast is 40 TFSI qttr S Line sedan $54,500 L4T 2.0 140 320 D7 1390 6.2 6.0 95 56 A
powerful enough to make X3M nervous, but Macan is more compelling
THE PICK: Alpina has made the choice very easy 40 TFSI qttr S Line cab $62,000 L4T 2.0 140 320 D7 1540 6.9 6.3 95 56 A
$109,900 L6TTD 3.0 245 700 A8 2015 4.6 6.4 D 61 A S3 $64,200 L4T 2.0 213 380 D7 1430 4.8 6.6 95 57 A
S3 Sedan $65,800 L4T 2.0 213 380 D7 1460 4.8 6.5 95 57 A
Alpine S3 Cabriolet $73,400 L4T 2.0 213 380 D7 1620 5.3 6.8 95 57 A
3 years/100,000km RS3 $83,436 L5T 2.5 294 480 D7 1510 4.1 8.5 98 62 09/20 A
RS3 sedan $86,136 L5T 2.5 294 480 D7 1515 4.1 8.5 98 62 A
A110 A4
A clear nod to the 1960s and ’70s rally icon without resorting to retro The yardstick for build quality and now value-for-money, though lack
pastiche. Extols the virtues of lightness and a well-sorted chassis of adaptive dampers undermines regular A4’s refinement
THE PICK: Whatever your budget allows, you lucky thing you THE PICK: A4 TFSI Allroad for its ride, fluency and space
$98,388 L4T 1.8 185 320 D7 1080 4.5 6.2 95 55 05/19 R 35 TFSI $55,900 L4T 2.0 110 270 D7 1440 8.6 6.1 95 51 F
$103,388 L4T 1.8 185 320 D7 1123 4.5 6.2 95 55 R 35TFSI S Line $59,900 L4T 2.0 110 270 D7 1440 8.6 6.1 95 51 F
45 TFSI S Line $68,500 L4T 2.0 183 370 D7 1545 5.8 7.1 95 52 A
Aston Martin 3 years/unlimited 45 TFSI S Line Avant $71,000 L4T 2.0 183 370 D7 1590 6.0 7.3 95 52 A
40 TDI Allroad $70,600 L4TD 2.0 150 400 D7 1645 7.3 4.9 D 52 A
Vantage 45 TFSI quattro Allroad $72,600 L4T 2.0 183 370 D7 1615 6.1 7.4 95 52 A
A return to form for Aston, helped along in no small way by borrowing S4 quattro $99,500 V6T 3.0 260 500 A8 1645 4.7 8.6 95 - A
that outstanding twin-turbo V8 from Mercedes-AMG. A real gem
THE PICK: AdVantage: driver. V8 finally delivers S4 Avant quattro $102,000 V6T 3.0 260 500 A8 1690 4.9 8.8 95 - A
$299,950 V8TT 4.0 375 685 A8 1530 3.6 10.3 98 - 09/18 R RS4 Avant $147,900 V6TT 2.9 331 600 A8 1790 4.1 8.9 98 46 A
$315,000 V8TT 4.0 375 685 A8 1590 3.8 9.4 98 - R
124 whichcar.com.au/wheels
ALFA ROMEO – BMW
YOUR COMPLETE NEW CAR BUYER’S GUIDE
PRICE Recommended retail figure at time of publication (asterisk indicates driveaway price)
ENGINE TYPE L, in-line; V, vee; F, flat. Number of cylinders. T, turbo; S, supercharged; D, diesel;
H, hybrid; E, electric SIZE Litres or kWh POWER kW TORQUE Nm TRANSMISSION M, manual; A,
auto; D, dual-clutch; C, CVT WEIGHT Kerb, kg 0-100 km/h, acceleration in seconds (Wheels as-tested
figures in italics) FUEL CONS Consumption in litres, or kWh, per 100km RON Octane of fuel required,
as numbered, or D for diesel RESALE percent, 3-year resale in Glass’s ISSUE TESTED month/year
DRIVE A, all-wheel; F, front; R, rear. Any figure in bold is our own estimate.
Price
A5 Engine
type
Size
Power
Torque
Trans.
Kerb
weight
0-100
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Issue
tested
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Price
Engine
type
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A quick car for those who have grown out of going quick. Now here in
facelifted 2021 guise which brings fresh sheetmetal and cabin tech
THE PICK: S5 is satisfying and plenty quick enough
40 TFSI S Line S’back $71,900 L4T 2.0 140 320 D7 1455 7.3 6.4 95 56 F
40 TFSI S Line Coupe $71,900 L4T 2.0 140 320 D7 1490 7.5 6.5 95 56 F Q5
40 TFSI S Line Cabriolet $85,400 L4T 2.0 140 320 D7 1655 7.9 6.7 95 56 F
45 TFSI qttr S Line S’back $79,900 L4T 2.0 183 370 D7 1530 5.8 7.1 95 64 A Quietly handsome, Mexican-built Q5 generously equipped and
arguably more well-rounded than its monotone German rivals
45 TFSI S Line Coupe $79,900 L4T 2.0 183 370 D7 1570 6.0 7.1 95 54 A THE PICK: Sweet 45 TFSI quattro Launch Edition is a nicely maxxed Q5
45 TFSI S Line Cabriolet $93,400 L4T 2.0 183 370 D7 1735 6.3 7.4 95 – A
40 TDI quattro $68,900 L4TD 2.0 150 400 S7 1805 7.6 5.4 D – A
S5 Sportback quattro $106,900 V6T 3.0 260 500 A8 1675 4.8 8.8 95 – A 45 TFSI quattro $69,600 L4T 2.0 183 370 S7 1750 6.3 8.0 95 – A
S5 Coupe quattro $106,900 V6T 3.0 260 500 A8 1640 4.7 8.8 95 – A 40 TDI quattro Sport $74,900 L4TD 2.0 150 400 S7 1805 7.6 5.4 D – A
S5 Cabriolet quattro $120,400 V6T 3.0 260 500 A8 1840 5.1 9.1 95 – A 45 TFSI quattro Sport $76,600 L4T 2.0 183 370 S7 1750 6.3 8.0 95 – A
RS5 Coupe $150,900 V6TT 2.9 331 600 A8 1685 3.7 8.8 98 53 A
RS5 Sportback $150,900 V6TT 2.9 331 600 A8 1720 3.9 8.9 98 53 A 40 TDI qttr Launch Ed. $78,300 L4TD 2.0 150 400 S7 1805 7.6 5.4 D – A
45 TFSI qttr Launch Ed. $80,800 L4T 2.0 183 370 S7 1750 6.3 8.0 95 – A
A6 50 TDI quattro S-Line $89,600 V6TD 3.0 210 620 A8 1935 5.7 6.8 D – A
All-new, tech-laden model arrived late in 2019 ready to tackle the Q7
E-Class and 5 Series. Four-wheel steer a ‘must tick’ option
THE PICK: RS6 is a ballistic missile. 45TDI Allroad the sensible choice Facelift has added air suspension and useful equipment upgrades as
standard. Still very polished and decent dynamically to boot.
40 TFSI $84,900 L4T 2.0 140 320 D7 - - - 95 52 F THE PICK: 50TDI offers grunt, refinement and more space than rivals
45 TFSI quattro $96,900 L4T 2.0 180 370 D7 1770 6.0 7.2 95 52 A 45 TDI quattro $103,300 V6TD 3.0 170 500 A8 2165 7.3 7.0 D 56 A
45 TFSI quattro S Line $106,000 L4T 2.0 180 370 D7 1695 6.0 7.3 95 52 02/20 A 50 TDI quattro $114,300 V6TD 3.0 210 600 A8 2165 6.5 6.8 D 56 A
55 TFSI quattro S Line $116,000 V6T 3.0 250 500 D7 1845 5.1 7.2 95 52 A 50 TDI quattro S line $121,300 V6TD 3.0 210 600 A8 2165 6.5 6.8 D 56 07/20 A
A
45 TDI Allroad $109,200 V6TD 3.0 170 500 A8 1945 6.7 5.9 D 46 55 TFSI S-line quattro $121,300 V6T 3.0 250 500 A8 2140 5.6 9.0 95 – A
S6 $149,900 V6TT 2.9 331 600 A8 1910 4.5 8.4 98 42 08/20 A SQ7 $161,500 V8TTD 4.0 320 900 A8 2385 4.8 7.6 D 63 A
RS6 Avant $216,000 V8TT 4.0 441 800 A8 2075 3.6 11.7 98 47 09/20 A Q8
A7 Sportback A technological powerhouse that rivals A8 for luxurious people
moving. SQ8 TDI is convincing; RS is a Lambo Urus for half the cash
Ingolstadt took a punt pitching a hatch at this price point, and the niche- THE PICK: Base 55 TFSI is convincing. RS defies the laws of physics
within-a-niche A7 offers little over its A6 sibling except exclusivity 50TDI $129,600 V6T 3.0 210 600 A8 2145 6.3 6.9 D 63 A
THE PICK: Makes far more sense than the related A8 limo
45 TFSI quattro $114,636 L4T 2.0 180 370 D7 1750 6.2 7.3 98 45 A 55 TFSI $130,200 V6T 3.0 250 500 A8 2145 5.7 13.3 95 63 10/19 A
55 TFSI quattro $133,236 V6T 3.0 250 500 D7 1920 5.3 7.1 95 45 A SQ8 TDI $166,500 V8TTD 4.0 320 900 A8 2365 4.8 7.8 D 63 A
S7 $159,136 V6TT 2.9 331 600 A8 1965 4.6 8.5 98 48 08/20 A RS $208,500 V8TT 4.0 441 800 A8 2240 3.8 12.1 98 63 A
RS7 $224,000 V8TT 4.0 441 800 A8 2065 3.6 11.6 98 47 A E-Tron
A8 It has the COTY-winning Mercedes-Benz EQC as competition, but late-
arriving e-tron offers more choice than its fellow German rival
Audi pours everything it knows into the mighty A8 – it’s an indulgent THE PICK: Sportback offers extra style for your quiet arrival
experience. But the autonomous tech doesn’t quite stack up in reality
THE PICK: If you can play in this league, the S8 is goals 50 quattro $137,100 E 71 230 540 1R 2370 6.8 23.6 - 61 A
50 TDI quattro $194,500 V6TD 3.0 210 600 A8 1975 5.9 5.6 D 47 02/19 A 55 quattro $146,100 E 95 300 664 1R 2480 5.7 22.0 - 61 A
55 TFSI quattro
$197,036 V6T 3.0 250 500 A8 1920 5.6 7.9 95 47 A 50 quattro Sportback $148,100 E 71 230 540 1R 2370 6.8 23.2 - 47 A
L 50 TDI quattro $209,100 V6TD 3.0 210 600 A8 2000 5.9 5.8 D 47 A 55 quattro Sportback $157,100 E 95 300 664 1R 2480 5.7 22.7 - 47 A
L 55 TFSI quattro $212,136 V6T 3.0 250 500 A8 1945 5.7 7.9 95 47 02/19 A
S8
$260,000 V8TT 4.0 420 800 A8 2230 3.8 10.5 98 47 A Bentley 3 years/unlimited
TT
Rock-solid coupe that’s usually maligned on account of not being a Continental GT
Porsche. The multi-faceted TT deserves a fairer go
THE PICK: S one of the most competent ‘real world’ sports cars around An undeniable sheen of bespoke Englishness and a focus on ride
45 TFSI quattro $80,900 L4T 2.0 180 370 D7 1365 5.2 7.0 95 51 A quality make this the pick of the grand touring coupes. V8 now in Oz
THE PICK: W12 delivers on its promises with regal insouciance
S quattro $99,300 L4T 2.0 210 380 D6 1385 4.5 16.0 98 51 11/19 A
RS $134,900 L5T 2.5 294 480 D7 1450 3.7 8.0 98 67 09/20 A V8 $400,900 V8TT 4.0 404 770 D8 2143 4.0 - 98 - A
V8 Convertible
R8 W12 $441,300 V8TT 4.0 404 770 D8 2209 4.1 - 98 - A
W12 Convertible
Recently updated flagship now sports even more aggressive styling $422,000 W12TT 6.0 467 900 D8 2344 3.7 12.2 98 - 02/19 A
and tweaked dynamics. Operatic V10 is one of the best donks on sale Speed
THE PICK: Rear-drive models are less expensive and more fun $464,600 W12TT 6.0 467 900 D8 2414 3.7 12.3 98 - 12/19 A
V8
Diesel Flying Spur
W12
V10 RWD $295,000 V10 5.2 397 540 D7 1595 3.7 12.9 98 64 R Speed Third-generation debuts all-new architecture that adds 48v tech and
rear-steer. Three chamber air springs offer a silken ride
V10 RWD Spyder $316,500 V10 5.2 397 540 D7 1695 3.8 13.1 98 64 R THE PICK: To paraphrase Holden, there’s nothing quite like a W12
V10 Performance $395,000 V10 5.2 456 580 D7 1595 3.1 13.1 98 64 A $469,000 W12TT 6.0 467 900 D7 2437 3.8 14.8 98 A
V10 Perf Spyder $416,500 V10 5.2 456 580 D7 1695 3.2 13.3 98 64 A Mulsanne
Q2 Curious but intoxicating melange of tech and tradition. Feels like a
throwback but delivers in all the areas that matter. In a class of its own
Small but near perfectly formed sub-SUV needs a stack of options to THE PICK: You may as well do it properly, so Speed it is
feel agreeably premium. Most buyers don’t seem to mind
THE PICK: 40 TFSI quattro Edition #2 solves the options conundrum $541,000 V8TT 6.8 377 1020 A8 2711 5.3 15.0 98 - R
35 TFSI $41,950 L4T 1.4 110 250 D7 1405 8.5 10.6 95 55 07/17 F $553,600 V8TT 6.8 395 1100 A8 2711 4.9 15.0 98 - R
35 TFSI Edition #2
$44,550 L4T 1.4 110 250 D7 1405 8.5 5.6 95 56 F Bentayga
40 TFSI quattro sport $49,400 L4T 2.0 140 320 D7 1430 6.7 6.5 95 56 07/18 A Bentley’s SUV effort is an expectably serene, rapid, capable and
40 TFSI qttr Edition #2 $52,400 classy machine. Dropped pork pie styling not everyone’s cup of tea
L4T 2.0 140 320 D7 1430 6.7 6.5 95 55 A THE PICK: W12 will crush any critics claiming this is just a Q7 in UK drag
Q3 $340,400 V8TT 4.0 404 770 A8 2395 4.5 11.4 98 - A
Second-gen adopts Golf 7.5 architecture so is far more advanced, $348,300 V8TTD 4.0 320 900 A8 2499 4.8 8.0 D - A
spacious and refined. Now comes in tapered Sportback guise
35 TFSI THE PICK: Launch edition has more kit for cheap if you’ve got the dosh $441,400 W12TT 6.0 447 900 A8 2440 4.1 13.1 98 - 10/16 A
$46,950 L4T 1.4 110 250 D6 1470 9.3 7.2 95 56 12/19 F $491,000 W12TT 6.0 467 900 A8 2508 3.9 14.3 95 A
Sportback 35 TFSI S-line $50,450 L4T 1.4 110 250 D6 1545 9.3 7.3 95 56 F
40 TFSI $54,450 L4T 2.0 132 320 D7 1620 7.8 8.0 95 56 A BMW
40 TFSI quattro S-line $59,950 L4T 2.0 132 320 D7 1620 7.8 8.2 95 57 A 3 years/unlimited
S’back 40 TFSI qttr S-line $62,350 L4T 2.0 132 320 D7 1695 7.8 8.3 95 57 A
1 Series
RS $89,900 L5T 2.5 294 480 D7 1715 4.5 8.9 98 58 A
RS Sportback $92,900 L5T 2.5 294 480 D7 1700 4.5 8.9 98 58 A Front-drive 1 Series kills the old rear-driver for packaging but suffers
from a lumpy ride and frumpy demeanour
THE PICK: New 128ti seems promising, unlike the rather disjointed M135i
118i $47,900 L3T 1.5 103 220 D7 1320 8.5 5.9 95 58 F
@wheelsaustralia 125
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128ti $56,900 L4T 2.0 180 380 A8 1445 6.3 6.1 95 – F Z4
M135i xDrive Pure
M135i xDrive $65,900 L4T 2.0 225 450 A8 1525 4.8 7.5 95 60 A Big engine, small car, no roof, it’s an age-old recipe that works
brilliantly in the new Z4. Ignore the four-pot and go the straight-six
218i Gran Coupe $70,900 L4T 2.0 225 450 A8 1525 4.8 7.5 95 60 03/20 A THE PICK: M40i gains 285kW tune and a 4.1sec 0-100km/h time
220i Gran Coupe
220i 2 Series sDrive20i $87,900 L4T 2.0 145 320 M6 1405 6.6 6.5 95 55 R
220i Convertible sDrive20i
M235i xDrive Pure GC Is the M2 the best-value performance car on the road today? And sDrive30i $87,900 L4T 2.0 145 320 A8 1405 6.6 6.5 95 55 02/20 R
M235i Gran Coupe don’t you hate being asked rhetorical questions by a magazine? M40i
M240i THE PICK: Easy. M2 Competition. Future classic status guaranteed $107,900 L4T 2.0 190 400 A8 1415 5.4 6.5 95 55 R
M240i Convertible sDrive18i
M2 Competition $49,990 L3T 1.5 103 220 D7 1375 8.7 5.7 95 - F sDrive18d $127,900 L6T 3.0 285 500 A8 1535 4.1 7.4 95 55 02/20 R
M2 Competition sDrive20i
$53,990 L4T 2.0 141 280 D7 1430 7.2 - 95 - F sDrive25i X1
S
$56,900 L4T 2.0 135 270 A8 1373 7.2 5.8 95 57 R sDrive18i A good-looking design hides some dynamic foibles, not least of
320i sDrive20i which is the sharp and bumpy ride on the standard suspension
330i $64,900 L4T 2.0 135 270 A8 1540 7.7 6.1 95 57 R X2 M35i Pure THE PICK: Stick to the petrols, an XC40, or consider the latest Audi Q3
330i Touring X2 M35i
330e $67,990 L4T 2.0 225 450 A8 1570 4.9 7.1 95 55 A $46,900 L3T 1.5 103 220 A8 - 9.6 - 95 56 F
M340i xDrive Pure sDrive20i
M340i xDrive $72,990 L4T 2.0 225 450 A8 1570 4.9 7.1 95 55 A xDrive20d $51,900 L4TD 2.0 110 350 A8 1495 9.2 4.7 D 56 F
xDrive30i
420i $81,900 L6T 3.0 250 500 A8 1485 4.6 7.0 95 62 R xDrive30d $49,900 L4T 2.0 141 280 A8 1510 7.6 5.9 95 56 F
430i M40i
M440i xDrive $91,900 L6T 3.0 250 500 A8 1630 4.7 7.4 95 62 R M Competition $64,900 L4TD 2.0 170 350 A8 1595 6.5 6.6 D 57 F
520i $102,900 L6TT 3.0 302 550 M6 1550 4.4 9.8 98 51 R xDrive20i X2
530i xDrive30i
530e $109,900 L6TT 3.0 302 550 D7 1575 4.4 13.4 98 51 11/19 R M40i A surprisingly uncompromising small SUV that is both stylish
530d M Competition and spacious inside, despite the low-slung roofline. Clever
M550i xDrive Pure i3 THE PICK: Turbo triple has appeal, but 20i is an extra $9K well spent
M550i xDrive xDrive25d
M5 Comp Proud winner of Wheels’ 2014 COTY, BMW’s sole full EV scores well xDrive30d $47,900 L3T 1.5 103 220 D7 1415 9.6 6.3 95 56 F
for its drive and design, less so for its sky-high asking price xDrive40i
620d GT THE PICK: BMW’s made the choice for you xDrive45e $56,900 L4T 2.0 141 280 D7 1460 7.2 6.1 95 56 07/18 F
M50i Pure
730d $70,900 E 42 135 270 R1 1245 6.9 16.1 - 53 R M50i $64,900 L4T 2.0 225 450 A8 1615 4.9 7.4 95 - A
740i X5 M Competition
745e 3 Series $69,900 L4T 2.0 225 450 A8 1615 4.9 7.4 95 - A
740Li xDrive30d
750i xDrive New 3 Series brings increased cabin space and tech injection. Full xDrive40i X3
M760Li xDrive line-up finally in the country, save for hardcore M versions M50i Pure
THE PICK: 330i is the current top of class; M340i for speed geeks M50i Bigger, better version of one of BMW’s most important cars. Oodles
840i Gran Coupe X6 M Competition of space, but the options list could bring a tear to a statue’s eye
840i Coupe $68,900 L4T 2.0 135 300 A8 1460 7.2 6.3 95 51 R THE PICK: Mid-spec xDrive30i, unless you want M Comp ball-tearer
840i Convertible xDrive30d
M850i xDrive G’ Coupe $74,900 L4T 2.0 190 400 A8 1490 5.8 8.9 95 52 02/20 R M50i $68,900 L4T 2.0 135 290 A8 1660 8.2 9.6 95 63 F
M850i xDrive
M850i xDrive Convert $78,900 L4T 2.0 190 400 A8 1575 5.9 7.0 95 48 02/20 R 275 $71,900 L4TD 2.0 140 400 A8 1745 8.0 5.7 D 63 A
M8 Comp Gran Coupe 485 S
M8 Competition Coupe $81,900 L4TH 2.0 215 420 A8 1740 5.9 6.4 95 52 R CSR $81,900 L4T 2.0 185 350 A8 1720 6.3 7.6 95 63 A
$98,900 L6T 3.0 285 500 A8 1670 4.4 7.7 95 52 A $88,900 L6TD 3.0 190 620 A8 1820 5.8 6.0 D 63 A
$108,900 L6T 3.0 285 500 A8 1670 4.4 7.7 95 52 02/20 A $109,900 L6T 3.0 265 500 A8 1885 4.8 8.9 95 58 A
4 Series $157,900 L6TT 3.0 375 600 A8 1970 4.1 11.7 98 - 10/19 A
Polarising grille aside, all-new 4 Series is bigger, smarter and quicker X4
than its predecessor. All Aussie cars are fitted with M Sport upgrades
THE PICK: 430i for four-pot grunt and rear-drive balance Oh, you’re paying $10K more than an equivalent X3 for a
swoopier roofline? Can we interest you in some magic beans?
$70,900 L4T 2.0 135 300 A8 1525 7.5 5.8 91 57 R THE PICK: The X3 twin of whichever takes your fancy
$88,900 L4T 2.0 190 400 A8 1545 5.8 6.1 91 57 R $80,900 L4T 2.0 135 290 A8 1678 8.3 7.8 95 61 A
$116,900 L6T 3.0 285 500 A8 1740 4.5 7.1 91 57 A $89,900 L4T 2.0 185 350 A8 1678 6.3 7.8 95 61 A
5 Series $117,900 L6T 3.0 265 500 A8 1783 4.8 9.2 95 58 A
Updated Fiver looks sharper, has better infotainment and makes more $164,900 L6TT 3.0 375 600 A8 1932 3.7 11.7 98 - 04/20 A
power in 530e and 550i. No more wagon though. Boo.
THE PICK: 550i is a beast and only marginally slower than M5 X5
$95,900 L4T 2.0 135 290 A8 1610 7.9 5.5 91 36 R Fourth time’s a charm for X5. Advanced tech, smartly packaged, lovely
dash and fun to punt around. Likeable 30d offers lag-free diesel punch
$115,900 L4T 2.0 185 350 A8 1625 6.4 5.5 91 36 R THE PICK: Tasty 40i, since a straight-six petrol is what BMW’s all about
$118,900 L4TH 2.0 215 420 A8 1835 5.9 1.8 91 36 R $102,900 L4TD 2.0 170 450 A8 2105 7.5 6.2 D 63 A
$125,900 L6TD 3.0 195 620 A8 1760 5.6 4.6 D 36 R $119,900 L6TTD 3.0 195 620 A8 2110 6.6 7.2 D 63 02/20 A
$137,900 V8TT 4.4 390 750 A8 1915 3.8 10.0 91 55 A $122,900 L6T 3.0 250 450 A8 2005 5.2 9.2 95 63 02/20 A
$152,900 V8TT 4.4 390 750 A8 1915 3.8 10.0 91 55 A $133,900 L6TH 3.0 290 600 A8 2435 5.6 2.0 95 63 A
$244,900 V8TT 4.4 460 750 A8 1895 3.3 10.6 98 42 A $140,900 V8TT 4.4 390 750 A8 2345 4.3 10.5 95 63 A
6 Series GT $155,900 V8TT 4.4 390 750 A8 2345 4.3 10.5 95 63 A
An ageing dinosaur in an otherwise relatively fresh BMW range. Looks $209,900 V8TT 4.4 460 750 A8 2310 3.8 13.0 95 - 04/20 A
only a mother can love, but plenty of space
THE PICK: We’d advise against it, but if you must, your choice is simple X6
$112,900 L4TD 2.0 140 400 A8 - 7.9 5.4 98 – R If you thought the X5 could do with a little less load-carrying ability and
rear headroom, and a lot more grille, the X6 was built for you
7 Series THE PICK: An X5, or a V8 petrol... the M Comp if the budget can stretch
Straight-six power for most of the range will please many, but it’s $123,900 L6TTD 3.0 195 620 A8 2110 5.5 - D 63 A
the V12 you really want, as it is the last of the breed
THE PICK: All impress but 745e is an intriguing eco-oddball GT $126,900 L6T 3.0 250 450 A8 2005 6.5 - 95 63 A
$204,900 L6TTD 3.0 195 620 A8 1825 6.1 5.7 D 42 R $144,900 V8TT 4.4 390 750 A8 2235 4.3 10.5 95 63 A
$204,900 L6TT 3.0 250 450 A8 1760 5.5 7.7 95 42 R $159,900 V8TT 4.4 390 750 A8 2235 4.3 - 95 63 13/19 A
$209,900 L6TTH 3.0 290 600 A8 1995 5.2 2.4 95 42 R $213,900 V8TT 4.4 460 750 A8 2295 3.8 12.7 95 - A
$234,900 L6TT 3.0 250 450 A8 1805 5.6 7.9 95 42 R X7
$277,900 V8TT 4.4 390 750 A8 1965 4.0 10.1 95 42 A US luxury seven-seater is built for space. Value V6 diesel eclipsed by
stonking if exxy V8 petrol, but it’s still outstandingly muscular
$383,900 V12TT 6.6 448 850 A8 2220 3.8 13.0 98 42 A THE PICK: Too big to be sporty, so the diesel makes way more sense
8 Series $128,900 L6TTD 3.0 195 620 A8 2370 6.7 9.7 D 63 10/19 A
Just when you thought the market for big, style-statement coupes had $175,900 V8TT 4.4 390 750 A8 2460 4.7 - 95 63 A
all but evaporated, BMW breathes in new life – and tasty M variants
THE PICK: If you can afford the price of admission, go the M8 Comp
$204,900 L6T 3.0 250 500 A8 1710 5.2 7.4 95 67 R Caterham 2 years/50,000km
$207,900 L6T 3.0 250 500 A8 1710 5.0 7.1 95 67 R
$222,900 L6T 3.0 250 500 A8 1830 5.3 7.3 95 67 R Seven
$272,700 V8TT 4.4 390 750 A8 1995 3.9 9.9 95 67 A Developed from Colin Chapman’s 1957 vision; a time when cigarettes
were good for you. Ridiculously fast fun. Range now revised for 2020
$280,900 V8TT 4.4 390 750 A8 1965 3.7 9.8 95 67 06/19 A THE PICK: 485 S is all the reborn Lotus 7 fun you’ll ever need
$289,900 V8TT 4.4 390 750 A8 2024 3.9 9.9 95 67 A $73,700 L4 1.6 100 160 M5 675 5.5 6.2 95 55 R
$349,900 V8TT 4.4 460 750 A8 1980 3.2 10.7 98 67 A $114,000 L4 2.0 177 206 M6 700 4.5 7.7 95 55 R
$357,900 V8TT 4.4 460 750 A8 1885 3.2 10.4 98 67 A $115,000 L4 2.0 177 206 M6 700 4.5 7.7 95 55 R
126 whichcar.com.au/wheels
Chrysler 3 years/100,000km BMW – FORD
YOUR COMPLETE NEW CAR BUYER’S GUIDE
WHAT IT ALL MEANS
PRICE Recommended retail figure at time of publication (asterisk indicates driveaway price)
ENGINE TYPE L, in-line; V, vee; F, flat. Number of cylinders. T, turbo; S, supercharged; D, diesel;
H, hybrid; E, electric SIZE Litres or kWh POWER kW TORQUE Nm TRANSMISSION M, manual; A,
auto; D, dual-clutch; C, CVT WEIGHT Kerb, kg 0-100 km/h, acceleration in seconds (Wheels as-tested
figures in italics) FUEL CONS Consumption in litres, or kWh, per 100km RON Octane of fuel required,
as numbered, or D for diesel RESALE percent, 3-year resale in Glass’s ISSUE TESTED month/year
DRIVE A, all-wheel; F, front; R, rear. Any figure in bold is our own estimate.
300 Price
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Ballin’ on a budget, relatively speaking. Chassis’ ability begs for big-V8
grunt, and top SRT worth a stretch for its adaptive dampers 500 C
THE PICK: SRT for your VF II SS or Falcon XR8 fix
C Luxury $59,950 V6 3.6 210 340 A8 1724 7.7 9.7 91 35 R The least costly way to get rays on your noggin, but (like all 500s) iffy
SRT Core ergonomics, robotised auto and spec holes undermine a great design
SRT $65,950 V8 6.4 350 637 A8 1946 4.5 13.0 98 35 09/19 R THE PICK: 500 too slow, 595 too hard, so try a used A3 Cabrio instead
Shine $77,450 V8 6.4 350 637 A8 1965 4.5 13.0 98 36 R Lounge $23,990 L4 1.2 51 102 M5 920 12.9 4.9 95 54 F
Lounge
Feel Citroën Club $25,250 L4 1.2 51 102 S5 935 12.9 4.8 95 54 F
Shine Abarth 595C
5 years/unlimited Abarth 595C $27,250 L4 1.2 51 102 S5 935 12.9 4.8 95 54 F
F8 Tributo Abarth 595C Comp.
F8 Tributo Spider Abarth 595C Comp. $29,990 L4T 1.4 107 206 M5 1075 7.8 6.0 95 48 07/16 F
T C3 Pop $31,990 L4T 1.4 107 206 S5 1035 8.0 5.8 95 48 F
Pop
Superfast Fun, French and frugal, Citroën’s stylish Mini rival is its most Pop Star $35,990 L4T 1.4 132 250 M5 1045 6.7 6.0 95 51 F
GTS convincing supermini in years. Now with heaps more kit – but at a price
THE PICK: Shine at last specified to appeal to head as well as heart $37,990 L4T 1.4 132 250 S5 1085 6.9 5.8 95 51 F
SF90 Stradale
$28,990 L3T 1.2 81 205 A6 1090 10.7 6.6 95 52 05/18 F 500 X
Lounge
Lounge C3 Aircross Unrelated to the smaller 500, the Jeep Renegade-derived X offers
Club charm, space, comfort and – surprise – value. Not a bad drive either
Abarth 595 Six grand more than the C3 for an extra 100kg of weight and few THE PICK: Pop Star brings with it loads of kit to offset that poop name
Abarth 595 millimetres of ride height. Value is in the eye of the beholder
Abarth 595 Comp. THE PICK: Buy the C3 hatch and save, or stretch to the C5 Aircross $24,990 L4T 1.4 103 230 M6 1295 9.8 6.0 95 52 02/16 F
Abarth 595 Comp.
$34,990 L3T 1.2 81 205 A6 1203 10.4 8.4 95 54 12/19 F $26,990 L4T 1.4 103 230 D6 1295 9.8 5.7 95 52 F
C5 Aircross $29,990 L4T 1.4 103 230 D6 1295 9.5 5.7 95 52 02/16 F
The SUV for those looking for a Goldilocks pick between the Peugeot Ford 5 years/unlimited
3008 and 5008. Divisive styling, amicable in most other areas
THE PICK: Plusher Shine more in keeping with Citroën’s comfort image
$42,990 L4T 1.6 121 240 A6 1402 9.9 7.9 95 56 F
$46,990 L4T 1.6 121 240 A6 1402 9.9 7.9 95 57 F Fiesta ST
Ferrari 3 years/unlimited It took a while to get here, but the Fiesta ST makes up for lost time by
being a brilliant performance car. Some lament loss of the three-door
THE PICK: There’s only one, and it ticks all the boxes. A true hot hatch
ST $32,290 L3T 1.5 147 290 M6 1262 6.7 7.5 95 - 05/20 F
Portofino Focus
It’s taken a while, but Ferrari’s entry-level effort is finally one to be Ford has swung the axe and culled the Focus range from seven to just
proud of. Turbo engine suits Portofino’s more supine edge four variants. We’ll miss the wagon, but this remains a decent Golf rival
THE PICK: A massive leap over the California it replaces THE PICK: ST is a very good hot hatch, though Hyundai i30 N is better...
$403,888 V8TT 3.9 441 760 D7 1664 3.5 10.7 98 - R ST-Line Hatch $30,990 L3T 1.5 134 240 A8 1347 8.2 6.4 91 48 05/19 F
Roma Active $30,990 L3T 1.5 134 240 A8 1329 8.7 6.4 91 48 09/19 F
Pretty and deceptively appealing, Roma is also a joy to drive thanks to ST $44,890 L4T 2.3 206 420 M6 1508 5.7 7.9 95 - 06/20 F
its searing pace and long-legged chassis tune
THE PICK: We’d take this over the heavier, less powerful Portofino ST $44,890 L4T 2.3 206 420 A7 1540 5.5 8.0 95 - F
$409,888 V8TT 3.9 456 760 D8 1570 3.4 11.2 98 - 10/20 R Mustang
F8 Tributo Muscle range now a whole lot beefier with the inclusion of the locally
assembled R-Spec and the beefed-up four-pot models. Praise be
Ravishing styling and stupendous speed as expected, but Tributo’s THE PICK: R-Spec for racing cred and the FOMO feel of a 500-car run
true triumph is just how everyday comfortable and user-friendly it is
THE PICK: You can’t go wrong with either, but the wait will be agonising High Performance 2.3L $51,490 L4T 2.3 236 448 M6 1705 6.0 9.6 91 55 R
$484,888 V8TT 3.9 530 770 D7 1435 2.9 12.9 98 - R High Performance 2.3L $54,490 L4T 2.3 236 448 A10 1716 6.0 9.6 91 55 06/20 R
$536,888 V8TT 3.9 530 770 D7 1505 2.9 12.9 98 - 11/19 R High Perf. 2.3L Conv $51,490 L4T 2.3 236 448 A10 1780 6.2 9.6 91 56 R
GTC4Lusso GT Fastback $64,190 V8 5.0 339 556 M6 1701 4.6 13.0 98 67 07/19 R
This is what happens when Ferrari engineers get on the turps. It GT Fastback $67,190 V8 5.0 339 556 A10 1785 4.3 12.7 98 66 R
shouldn’t work, yet does so brilliantly. Sadly production has now ended
THE PICK: What a ‘crossover’ from Ferrari should be. #noFerrariSUVs GT Convertible $75,390 V8 5.0 339 556 A10 1855 4.5 12.7 98 67 R
R-Spec $99,616 V8S 5.0 500 827 M6 1701 4.7 12.4 98 67 03/20 R
$511,888 V8TT 3.9 442 760 D7 1840 3.5 11.6 98 - R Puma
$585,888 V12 6.3 507 697 D7 1920 3.5 15.3 98 - 02/17 A Ford’s new small SUV looks exxy compared with rivals but is bursting
with standard gear. Plus, it’s a million times better than the EcoSport!
812 THE PICK: Trim and equipment the decider here. We’d go the ST-Line
Recipient of the greatest naturally aspirated production engine ever $29,990 L3T 1.0 92 170 D7 1314 10.0 5.3 95 - F
made. The rest of the package is almost as good. A landmark car
THE PICK: A top-drawer supercar in GT clothing ST-Line $32,340 L3T 1.0 92 170 D7 1314 10.0 5.3 95 - F
$613,888 V12 6.5 588 718 D7 1705 3.0 16.4 98 - R ST-Line V $35,540 L3T 1.0 92 170 D7 1314 10.0 5.3 95 - F
$675,888 V12 6.5 588 718 D7 1705 3.0 16.4 98 - R Escape
SF90 Stradale Underrated and worthy of attention, Ford offers an ideal, ahem,
Escape from the masses. Plug-in hybrid model now delayed
The plug-in hybrid electric craze reaches Maranello. However, it isn’t THE PICK: ST-Line is the sweet spot with its punchy 2.0-litre turbo
for tree-hugging, the extra volts are all about adding performance
THE PICK: If you’ve got the means, you won’t be disappointed $35,990 L4T 2.0 183 387 A8 1611 - 8.6 95 - F
$846,888 V8TTH 4.0 574 800 D8 1570 2.5 - 98 - 09/20 A ST-Line $37,990 L4T 2.0 183 387 A8 1621 - 8.6 95 - F
ST-Line AWD $40,990 L4T 2.0 183 387 A8 1690 - 8.6 95 - A
Fiat 3 years/150,000km Vignale $46,590 L4T 2.0 183 387 A8 1621 - 8.6 95 - F
Vignale AWD $49,590 L4T 2.0 183 387 A8 1690 - 8.6 95 - A
500 Endura
Ageing Italian icon still an artistic, affordable runabout – but avoid Canadian-made Edge is spacious and pleasant to steer, but misses the
robotised auto and buy a seat cushion for bonkers Abarth mark with only five seats, laggy diesel, comedy pricing and daft name
THE PICK: Now too old, so buy used or wait for an all-new generation THE PICK: The bigger the discount, the better sense Endura makes
$19,250 L4 1.2 51 102 M5 885 12.9 4.9 95 - F Trend $44,990 L4TD 2.0 140 400 A8 1933 8.2 6.7 D 60 F
$21,200 L4 1.2 51 102 S5 935 12.9 4.8 95 - F Trend AWD $48,900 L4TD 2.0 140 400 A8 1995 8.2 6.7 D 62 A
$23,250 L4 1.2 51 102 S5 920 12.9 4.8 95 - F ST-Line $53,900 L4TD 2.0 140 400 A8 1949 8.2 6.7 D 62 F
$26,990 L4T 1.4 107 206 M5 1035 7.9 5.8 95 48 07/16 F ST-Line AWD $57,900 L4TD 2.0 140 400 A8 2012 8.2 6.7 D 61 A
$28,990 L4T 1.4 107 206 S5 1035 8.0 5.8 95 48 F Titanium $63,900 L4TD 2.0 140 400 A8 1999 8.2 6.7 D 62 F
$31,990 L4T 1.4 132 250 M5 1045 6.7 5.7 95 51 13/17 F Titanium AWD $67,990 L4TD 2.0 140 400 A8 2062 10.4 6.7 D 62 04/19 A
$33,990 L4T 1.4 132 250 S5 1085 6.9 6.9 95 51 F
@wheelsaustralia 127
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GWM-Haval 7 years/unlimited
Everest
Ranger-derived SUV is a gun off-road and capable on it. World’s sole H2
Oz-designed/engineered/developed SUV. New grilles, updates for ’21
THE PICK: Sport bi-turbo for its lack of chrome chintz
Ambiente 5-seat RWD $50,050 L5TD 3.2 143 470 A6 2239 11.0 8.4 D 57 R Spacious and reasonably equipped, the H2 trips due to sub-par
Ambiente 7-seat RWD performance, economy and steering. Better alternatives abound
Ambiente 5-seat 4WD $50,190 L5TD 3.2 143 470 A6 2266 11.0 8.4 D 57 R THE PICK: Dated Mitsubishi ASX runs rings around H2
Ambiente 7-seat 4WD
Trend Bi-Turbo RWD $55,090 L5TD 3.2 143 470 A6 2343 11.0 8.5 D 57 A Premium $22,990* L4T 1.5 110 210 A6 1529 11.8 9.0 95 44 F
Trend 4WD Lux
Trend Bi-Turbo 4WD $55,190 L5TD 3.2 143 470 A6 2370 11.0 8.5 D 57 A $25,990* L4T 1.5 110 210 A6 1529 11.8 9.0 95 44 F
Sport Bi-Turbo RWD Premium
Sport Bi-Turbo 4WD $57,090 L4TTD 2.0 157 500 A10 2305 10.5 6.9 D 58 R Lux H6
Sport Bi-Turbo 4WD
Titanium Bi-Turbo $60,890 L5TD 3.2 143 470 A6 2407 11.0 8.5 D 58 A Lux Fairly handsome, undeniably roomy and with some zip, but sadly the
Ultra H6’s chassis sets an industry benchmark for peerless ineptitude
XL $62,390 L4TTD 2.0 157 500 A10 2444 10.5 7.1 D 58 A THE PICK: Any rival is currently preferable
XL Cannon
XL $60,090 L4TTD 2.0 157 500 A10 2286 10.5 6.9 D R Cannon-L
XLS Cannon-X
XLS $62,890 L5TD 3.2 143 470 A6 2408 11.0 8.5 D A $29,990* L4T 2.0 145 315 A6 1715 10.0 9.8 95 50 06/17 F
XLS Sport Final Edition
XLS Sport $64,390 L4TTD 2.0 157 500 A10 2387 10.5 7.0 D A VTi-L $33,990* L4T 2.0 145 315 A6 1715 10.0 9.8 95 52 F
XLT
XLT $73,190 L4TTD 2.0 157 500 A10 2494 10.5 7.1 D 58 A H9
XLT
FX4 MAX Ranger A Mazda CX-9 or Kia Sorento costs similar money. The three-row H9’s
Wildtrak ZF ’box isn’t bad, but beyond that we’re grasping at straws
Wildtrak A decade on, the Aussie-engineered Ranger remains a Blue Oval THE PICK: Family planning
Wildtrak success story that keeps getting better with age
Wildtrak X THE PICK: Superb Raptor by a Baja mile, though FX4 Max comes close $41,990* L4T 2.0 180 350 A8 2236 11.0 10.5 95 52 A
Wildtrak X
Wildtrak X $48,490 L4TD 2.2 118 385 A6 2034 10.1 8.0 D 56 A $45,990* L4T 2.0 180 350 A8 2236 11.0 10.5 95 52 A
Raptor
$48,790 L5TD 3.2 147 470 M6 2068 10.3 8.7 D 56 A Ute
$50,990 L5TD 3.2 147 470 A6 2068 10.1 8.7 D 56 A If equipment sizzle matters then Great Wall’s Ute is a game-changer …
until you unearth its drivetrain flaws and dynamic foibles
$50,090 L5TD 3.2 147 470 M6 2064 10.3 8.7 D 56 A THE PICK: As its showroom glamour is so enticing, the loaded Cannon-X
$52,290 L5TD 3.2 147 470 A6 2064 10.1 8.7 D 56 A $33,990* L4TD 2.0 120 400 A8 2100 – 9.4 D – A
$53,340 L5TD 3.2 147 470 M6 2064 10.3 8.7 D 56 A $37,990* L4TD 2.0 120 400 A8 2100 – 9.4 D – A
$55,540 L5TD 3.2 147 470 A6 2064 10.1 8.7 D 56 A $40,990* L4TD 2.0 120 400 A8 2100 – 9.4 D – A
$57,040 L5TD 3.2 147 470 M6 2159 10.3 8.7 D 56 A
$59,240 L5TD 3.2 147 470 A6 2159 10.1 8.7 D 56 07/18 A Honda
$60,740 L4TTD 2.0 157 500 A10 2198 9.7 7.4 D 56 A 5 years/unlimited
$65,490 L4TTD 2.0 157 500 A10 2219 9.8 7.4 D - A
$61,890 L5TD 3.2 147 470 M6 2200 10.3 8.7 D 57 A Jazz
$64,090 L5TD 3.2 147 470 A6 2200 10.1 8.7 D 58 A Sheer versatility and clever packaging makes most sense in bargain
base VTi. However, Jazz is soon to disappear from Honda’s Oz line-up
$65,590 L4TTD 2.0 157 500 A10 2239 9.8 7.4 D 58 A THE PICK: VTi while you can. Spending more brings diminishing returns
$63,890 L5TD 3.2 147 470 M6 2200 10.3 8.7 D 58 A $19,990 L4 1.5 88 145 C 1095 10.3 5.8 91 56 F
$66,490 L5TD 3.2 147 470 A6 2200 10.1 8.7 D - A $24,490 L4 1.5 88 145 C 1130 10.3 5.8 91 57 10/14 F
$67,990 L4TTD 2.0 157 500 A10 2239 9.8 7.4 D - A Civic
$77,190 L4TTD 2.0 157 500 A10 2332 9.9 8.2 D 58 08/19 A A comeback of sorts, led in part by the gifted Type R, and aided by
clever packaging, rorty turbo and sharp dynamics. Recently refreshed
THE PICK: Avoid 1.8 atmo. And reflections of the car while driving...
Genesis 5 years/unlimited VTi hatch $23,790 L4 1.8 104 174 C 1262 9.2 6.4 91 54 F
VTi sedan
VTi-S hatch $23,590 L4 1.8 104 174 C 1248 9.2 6.4 91 54 07/16 F
VTi-S sedan
G70 VTi-L hatch $27,300 L4 1.8 104 174 C 1261 9.2 6.4 91 54 12/18 F
VTi-L sedan
Hyundai needed G70 to be a 3 Series botherer. Lucky it’s exactly that, RS hatch $26,290 L4 1.8 104 174 C 1250 9.2 6.4 91 54 01/17 F
aided by pace, handling and the right specs... cheapo m’media aside RS sedan
THE PICK: 3.3T Ultimate has a proper LSD diff; makes a real difference VTi-LX hatch $31,100 L4T 1.5 127 220 C 1322 7.5 6.1 91 54 F
VTi-LX sedan
2.0T $59,300 L4T 2.0 179 353 A8 1604 5.9 8.7 95 55 02/20 R Type R $30,090 L4T 1.5 127 220 C 1302 7.5 6.0 91 54 07/16 F
2.0T Sport
2.0T Ultimate $63,300 L4T 2.0 179 353 A8 1604 5.9 9.0 95 55 R VTi-LX Turbo $35,600 L4T 1.5 127 220 C 1341 7.5 6.1 91 56 F
3.3T Sport VTi-LX Hybrid
3.3T Ultimate $69,300 L4T 2.0 179 353 A8 1604 5.9 9.0 95 55 R $34,090 L4T 1.5 127 220 C 1326 7.4 6.0 91 56 12/16 F
3.3T Ultimate Sport VTi
$72,450 V6TT 3.3 272 510 A8 1719 4.9 10.2 95 55 10/19 R VTi-S $36,600 L4T 1.5 127 220 C 1344 7.6 6.1 91 56 09/17 F
2.5T RS
3.5T AWD $79,950 V6TT 3.3 272 510 A8 1719 4.7 10.2 95 55 R VTi-LX $35,590 L4T 1.5 127 220 C 1327 7.5 6.0 91 56 07/16 F
2.5T $79,950 V6TT 3.3 272 510 A8 1719 4.7 10.2 95 55 02/20 R $54,990 L4T 2.0 228 400 M6 1396 6.0 9.9 95 55 F
2.5T
3.0D G80 Accord
3.5T
Korean limo with a touch of Art Deco glamour and a great big dose of With COTY wins (’77 original and ’08 Euro), every Accord arrives with
individuality, along with segment-leading equipment high hopes. Earth Dreams chassis, turbo and hybrid sound promising
THE PICK: Twin-turbo V6 for its AWD purchase and adaptive damping THE PICK: The turbo four is demonstrably better than hybrid
$84,900 L4T 2.5 224 422 A8 1869 6.0 8.6 95 – R $51,990 L4T 1.5 140 260 C 1504 – 6.5 91 - 02/20 F
$99,900 V6TT 3.5 279 530 A8 2023 5.1 10.7 95 – A $54,990 L4H 2.0 158 315 C 1591 – 4.3 91 - F
GV80 HR-V
This upmarket SUV should unlock market awareness for Genesis. The Jazz-based ‘Magic Seat’ brings vast interior packaging configurations
GV80 is pitched as a X5 rival, meaning leather/wood trim abounds and 1.8 is gutsy, but handsome HR-V is loud, firm riding and a dull drive
THE PICK: You’ll want six cylinders, but it pushes the price past $100K THE PICK: VTi-S, since its cabin doesn’t feel quite as Bi-Lo as the base
$90,600 L4T 2.5 224 422 A8 2073 – – 95 – R $25,990 L4 1.8 105 172 C 1269 9.9 8.1 91 50 01/20 F
$95,600 L4T 2.5 224 422 A8 2073 – – 95 – A $230,390 L4 1.8 105 172 C 1274 10.2 6.9 91 50 F
$103,600 L6TD 3.0 204 588 A8 2230 - - D - A $33,690 L4 1.8 105 172 C 1294 10.2 6.9 91 50 F
$108,600 V6TT 3.5 279 530 A8 2267 - - 95 - A $36,240 L4 1.8 105 172 C 1319 10.2 6.9 91 52 05/15 F
CR-V
GMSV 3 years/100,000km Designed for families, yet offers an able chassis and frugal turbo
oomph. But Vi’s 2.0L is slow and 7-seater’s third row is kids-only
THE PICK: Generously equipped VTi-X offers the best value
Chevrolet Silverado Vi $31,300 L4 2.0 113 189 C 1504 - 7.6 91 57 F
VTi
Size dwarfs just about everything else on the road; could tow your VTi 7 $34,200 L4T 1.5 140 240 C 1536 9.8 7.0 91 52 F
house into a better suburb thanks to monster engine
THE PICK: No diesels means V8 petrol your only choice $36,100 L4T 1.5 140 240 C 1604 9.8 7.3 91 54 F
1500 LTZ Premium Ed. $113,990 V8 6.2 313 624 A10 2588 6.4 13.5 95 - 08/20 A
128 whichcar.com.au/wheels
FORD – HYUNDAI
YOUR COMPLETE NEW CAR BUYER’S GUIDE
WHAT IT ALL MEANS
PRICE Recommended retail figure at time of publication (asterisk indicates driveaway price)
ENGINE TYPE L, in-line; V, vee; F, flat. Number of cylinders. T, turbo; S, supercharged; D, diesel;
H, hybrid; E, electric SIZE Litres or kWh POWER kW TORQUE Nm TRANSMISSION M, manual; A,
auto; D, dual-clutch; C, CVT WEIGHT Kerb, kg 0-100 km/h, acceleration in seconds (Wheels as-tested
figures in italics) FUEL CONS Consumption in litres, or kWh, per 100km RON Octane of fuel required,
as numbered, or D for diesel RESALE percent, 3-year resale in Glass’s ISSUE TESTED month/year
DRIVE A, all-wheel; F, front; R, rear. Any figure in bold is our own estimate.
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VTi-X $37,000 L4T 1.5 140 240 C 1540 9.8 7.3 91 54 F
VTi-L AWD $41,100 L4T 1.5 140 240 C 1597 10.0 7.4 91 55 A
VTi-L 7 $44,200 L4T 1.5 140 240 C 1642 10.0 7.3 91 56 F
VTi-LX AWD $48,500 L4T 1.5 140 240 C 1636 10.0 7.4 91 56 A
New ODYSSEY Veloster
Tech and equipment updates for 7-seater Built in right-hook guise especially for Australia, it’s the sportier,
funkier brother to the i30. However, it’s been axed. Get it while it lasts
THE PICK: Turbo or bust, and a welcome modern-day Honda Integra
On sale since 2014 but a shadow of its former COTY-winning self, the fifth-gen Odyssey $29,780 L4 2.0 110 180 M6 1295 9.4 7.0 91 - F
has undergone its second makeover for greater styling presence. Both models feature
buckets in the second row, fixing the old car’s ADR child-seat-anchorage issues, and $32,110 L4 2.0 110 180 D7 1315 9.6 7.1 91 - F
there’s acoustic glass, a revamped dash, fresh multimedia, extra safety and new tech.
Turbo $35,840 L4T 1.6 150 265 M6 1320 7.7 7.3 91 - F
Turbo
Turbo Premium $38,870 L4T 1.6 150 265 D7 1350 7.1 6.9 91 - 12/19 F
Turbo Premium
Vi L7 $44,250 L4 2.4 129 225 C 1824 – 8.0 91 F $39,380 L4T 1.6 150 265 M6 1320 7.7 7.3 91 - F
Vi LX7 $51,150 L4 2.4 129 225 C 1854 – 8.0 91 F
$42,410 L4T 1.6 150 265 D7 1350 7.1 6.9 91 - 07/20 F
Venue
Hyundai 5 years/unlimited A much, much better baby bus than people give it credit for, though
those base alloys look like roller skates. Now no longer sub-$20K
THE PICK: Probably the Active with its stylish 17s and added glamour
i30 $20,690 L4 1.6 90 151 M6 1140 11.2 7.0 91 - F
Clever interior, engaging dynamics, plenty of polish... every variant is $22,710 L4 1.6 90 151 A6 1165 11.4 7.2 91 - F
incrementally better on the last, so buy the best one you can afford.
THE PICK: N hot hatch. But anything with a turbo, we reckon. Active $22,620 L4 1.6 90 151 M6 1200 11.2 7.0 91 - F
Active
Elite $24,640 L4 1.6 90 151 A6 1225 11.4 7.2 91 - 11/19 F
$23,420 L4 2.0 120 203 M6 1357 – 7.3 91 54 F Go $26,490 L4 1.6 90 151 A6 1225 10.4 7.2 91 - 01/20 F
Go
$25,420 L4 2.0 120 203 A6 1382 – 7.4 91 54 F Active Kona
Active
Active $26,920 L4 2.0 120 203 A6 1382 – 7.4 91 54 12/18 F Elite Unique styling makes for a rapid runabout in 1.6 turbo form, but lacks
Elite Elite polish. 2.0s are gruff, bouncy. 2020 car brings safety enhancements
N-Line $30,220 L4 2.0 120 203 A6 1382 – 7.4 91 54 F Highlander THE PICK: Anything with a turbo since it also brings welcome IRS
N-Line Highlander
N-Line Premium $29,420 L4T 1.6 150 265 M6 1407 – 7.5 91 54 F Elite EV $24,300 L4 2.0 110 180 A6 1383 10.0 7.2 91 50 F
N-Line Premium Highlander EV
N $31,420 L4T 1.6 150 265 D7 1436 – 7.8 91 56 F $27,800 L4T 1.6 130 265 D7 1507 7.9 6.7 91 50 A
Fastback N Active
$34,220 L4T 1.6 150 265 M6 1407 – 7.5 91 56 F Active $26,060 L4 2.0 110 180 A6 1383 9.35 8.7 91 50 01/20 F
Active Active X
Active $36,220 L4T 1.6 150 265 D7 1436 – 7.8 91 56 F Active X $29,590 L4T 1.6 130 265 D7 1507 7.9 6.7 91 50 A
Elite Active CRDi
N-Line $41,400 L4T 2.0 202 353 M6 1429 6.4 10.2 95 58 10/18 F Elite $30,600 L4 2.0 110 180 A6 1383 10.0 7.2 91 50 F
N-Line Elite
N-Line Premium $42,910 L4T 2.0 202 353 M6 1441 6.3 12.2 95 58 08/20 F Active X CRDi $34,140 L4T 1.6 130 265 D7 1507 7.3 6.7 91 50 02/18 A
Elite CRDi
Hybrid Elite i30 Sedan Highlander $36,660 L4 2.0 110 180 A6 1383 10.0 7.2 91 52 F
Hybrid Premium Highlander CRDi
PHEV Elite A new-gen, anti-bland Elantra-in-drag that finally pushes design $40,200 L4T 1.6 130 265 D7 1507 7.9 6.7 91 52 A
PHEV Premium boundaries in every direction, including up and down
Electric Elite THE PICK: If you value any level of performance, you’ll need a turbo $60,740 E 64 150 395 R1 1685 7.6 16.0 - 55 F
Electric Premium
$24,790 L4 2.0 117 191 M6 1210 – 7.0 91 - F $65,290 E 64 150 395 R1 1743 7.6 14.7 - 55 06/19 F
$26,790 L4 2.0 117 191 A6 1230 – 7.0 91 - F Tucson
$30,790 L4 2.0 117 191 A6 1300 – 7.0 91 - F Hyundai’s popular mid-sizer adds AEB across the range. Decent
handling and attractive, spacious interior offset by terse ride
$30,290 L4T 1.6 150 265 M6 – – - - F THE PICK: Turbos much nicer than raucous 2.0 petrol front-drivers
$32,290 L4T 1.6 150 265 D7 – – - - F $29,640 L4 2.0 122 205 M6 1596 9.9 7.8 91 50 F
$37,290 L4T 1.6 150 265 D7 – – - - F $32,140 L4 2.0 122 205 A6 1620 10.2 10.0 91 52 12/19 F
Ioniq $32,640 L4 2.0 122 205 M6 1596 9.9 7.8 91 51 F
Mid-life update cuts the gap to Nissan’s Leaf with more power, torque $35,140 L4 2.0 122 205 A6 1620 9.9 7.9 91 52 F
and range for Electric variants, but cheapest EV status at risk
THE PICK: Electric Elite, to keep bragging rights on Oz EV pricing, just $37,440 L4TD 2.0 136 400 A8 1820 9.0 6.4 D 53 A
$35,140 L4H 1.6 104 265 D6 1375 10.8 3.9 91 52 F $38,200 L4 2.0 122 205 A6 1620 9.0 7.9 91 52 F
$40,390 L4H 1.6 104 265 D6 1375 11.1 3.9 91 54 F $41,200 L4T 1.6 130 265 D7 1698 9.5 7.7 91 53 A
$42,410 L4PH 1.6 104 265 D6 1495 10.6 1.1 91 54 F $40,440 L4TD 2.0 136 400 A8 1820 9.0 6.4 D 53 A
$46,950 L4PH 1.6 104 265 D6 1495 10.6 1.1 91 54 F $43,500 L4TD 2.0 136 400 A8 1820 9.0 6.4 D 53 A
$48,970 E 38 100 295 R1 1527 9.9 14.5 - 54 13/19 F $46,850 L4T 1.6 130 265 D7 1698 8.4 12.3 91 54 06/19 A
$53,010 E 38 100 295 R1 1527 9.9 14.5 - 55 10/19 F $49,150 L4TD 2.0 136 400 A8 1820 9.0 6.4 D 54 A
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Santa Fe F-Type
Along with its Kia Sorento cousin, one of the finest large SUVs you can Now more aggressive to behold, with a larger front grille and new light
buy, especially the beautifully presented Elite and Highlander signatures. Not as sharp as Cayman/Boxster but has more personality
THE PICK: The Active and Elite AWD diesels are the value sweet spot THE PICK: P575 R is monster, though supercharged sixes are great
$44,700 V6 3.5 200 331 A8 1735 – 10.5 91 - F P300 R-Dynamic $126,400 L4T 2.0 221 400 A8 1520 5.7 7.2 95 49 R
CRDi $48,200 L4TD 2.2 148 440 S8 1820 – 6.1 D - A P300 R-Dynamic convrt $145,100 L4T 2.0 221 400 A8 1540 5.7 7.2 95 49 R
Active
Active CRDi $48,300 V6 3.5 200 331 A8 1735 – 10.5 91 - F P380 R-Dynamic $173,100 V6S 3.0 280 460 A8 1572 4.9 8.6 95 49 R
Elite
Elite CRDi $51,800 L4TD 2.2 148 440 S8 1820 – 6.1 D - A P380 R-Dynamic convrt $191,800 V6S 3.0 280 460 A8 1592 4.9 8.6 95 49 R
Highlander
Highlander CRDi $54,300 V6 3.5 200 331 A8 1858 – 10.5 91 - F P380 First Edition $205,300 V6S 3.0 280 460 A8 1572 4.9 8.6 95 49 R
CRDi $57,800 L4TD 2.2 148 440 S8 1943 – 6.1 D - A P575 R $263,300 V8S 5.0 423 700 A8 1743 3.7 11.3 98 49 A
Highlander
Highlander CRDi $61,700 V6 3.5 200 331 A8 1858 – 10.5 91 - F I-Pace
LS-M 2WD $65,200 L4TD 2.2 148 440 S8 1943 – 6.1 D - A A breathtaking first electric car from Jaguar. Intriguing to behold and
LS-U 2WD fun to pedal hard, it shows Tesla a thing or two about build quality
LS-M 4WD Palisade THE PICK: All three grades recently updated. Trim the only difference
LS-T 2WD
LS-U 4WD Burly, handsome Hyundai SUV even larger than Santa Fe, with S $128,860 E 90 294 696 1R 2058 4.8 22.3 - 61 A
LS-T 4WD excellent refinement and the ability to seat up to eight people
THE PICK: Highlander diesel with 2nd-row Captain’s chairs is proper luxe SE $138,460 E 90 294 696 1R 2058 4.8 22.3 - 61 A
SX
SX $60,000 V6 3.8 217 355 A8 1897 – 10.7 91 - F HSE $152,060 E 90 294 696 1R 3058 4.8 22.3 - 61 A
LS-M
LS-M $64,000 L4TD 2.2 147 440 A8 1983 – 7.3 D - A
LS-U
LS-U $71,000 V6 3.8 217 355 A8 1960 – 10.7 91 - F Jeep 5 years/100,000km
X-Terrain
$75,000 L4TD 2.2 147 440 A8 2069 – 7.3 D - A
Isuzu Compass
6 years/150,000km Bigger but duller than (now defunct) Renegade. Recently updated with
welcome gear/safety additions but prices have jumped
MU-X THE PICK: Meh, although Trailhawk 4x4 can go places a CX-5 can’t
Indestructible timing chain is its prime user benefit. Tough as old Night Eagle $36,950 L4 2.4 129 229 A6 1446 9.3 7.9 91 - F
Blundstones but new MU-X is just around the corner Limited
THE PICK: Lots of 4x4 for the dough, but Ford Everest is a lot better S-Limited $42,950 L4 2.4 129 229 A9 1503 10.1 9.7 91 - A
Trailhawk
$45,950 L4 2.4 129 229 A9 1503 10.1 9.7 91 - A
Sport
$42,900 L4TD 3.0 130 430 A6 1992 - 8.0 D 52 R Limited $49,450 L4TD 2.0 125 350 A9 1621 9.7 5.7 D - A
Trailhawk
$45,300 L4TD 3.0 130 430 A6 2042 - 8.1 D 52 R S-Limited Cherokee
$50,200 L4TD 3.0 130 430 A6 2092 - 8.1 D 54 A Night Eagle Facelift brought blander nose but upgraded dash, and Cherokee is still
Night Eagle one of the better Jeeps to drive on-road, but quality isn’t brilliant
$49,100 L4TD 3.0 130 430 A6 2062 - 8.1 D 53 R Limited THE PICK: V6s, and again Trailhawk annihilates all rivals off-road
S-Limited
$52,600 L4TD 3.0 130 430 A6 2142 - 8.1 D 53 A S-Limited $37,950 L4 2.4 130 229 A9 1738 10.0 8.3 91 53 08/14 F
Trailhawk
$56,400 L4TD 3.0 130 430 A6 2157 - 8.1 D 54 A Overland $49,950 V6 3.2 200 315 A9 1834 8.0 10.0 91 - A
Summit
D-Max SRT $49,950 V6 3.2 200 315 A9 1862 8.0 10.0 91 55 08/14 A
Trackhawk
New D-Max has moved upmarket with richer spec, more grunt and $52,650 V6 3.2 200 315 A9 1864 8.0 10.0 91 56 A
heaps of safety gear. Prices have crept up as a result Sport S 2dr
THE PICK: Now a genuine rival for Ranger/Hilux in any spec Overland 2dr Grand Cherokee
Unlimited Night Eagle
$47,900 L4TD 3.0 140 450 M6 2025 - 7.7 D 47 A Unlimited Overland Big and brassy, feels its weight around town; rear-seat packaging iffy;
Unlimited Rubicon getting on but still handsome and always great off the beaten track
$49,900 L4TD 3.0 140 450 A6 2035 - 8.0 D 47 A THE PICK: Limited, unless you’re unhinged enough to handle Trackhawk
Overland
$51,000 L4TD 3.0 140 450 M6 2020 - 7.7 D 49 A Rubicon $59,950 V6 3.6 213 347 A8 2084 8.5 10.0 91 54 A
$53,000 L4TD 3.0 140 450 A6 2030 - 8.0 D 49 A $65,950 V6TD 3.0 184 570 A8 2267 8.0 7.5 D 56 A
$53,900 L4TD 3.0 140 450 M6 2035 - 7.7 D 49 A $63,950 V6 3.6 184 347 A8 2169 8.5 10.0 91 56 A
$54,900 L4TD 3.0 140 450 A6 2045 - 8.0 D 50 A $72,950 V6TD 3.0 184 570 A8 2281 8.0 7.5 D 56 A
$62,900 L4TD 3.0 140 450 A6 2130 - 8.0 D 49 A $72,950 V8 5.7 259 520 A8 - - 13.0 91 56 A
$75,950 V6TD 3.0 184 570 A8 2340 8.0 7.5 D 56 A
Jaguar 5 years/unlimited $79,450 V6TD 3.0 184 570 A8 2327 8.0 7.5 D 56 A
$85,950 V6TD 3.0 184 570 A8 2281 8.0 7.0 D 58 A
XE $92,450 V8 6.4 344 624 A8 2289 5.0 14.0 98 58 A
Down from 14 to two, the best of the XE powertrains remains – a slick, $139,950 V8S 6.2 522 868 A8 2399 3.7 16.8 98 58 07/19 A
punchy 2.0t, blending beautifully with poised, supple, involving chassis
THE PICK: Either. Facelift brings XE right back into sharp contention Wrangler
P300 R-Dynamic SE $65,670 L4T 2.0 221 400 A8 1633 5.9 6.9 95 51 10/19 R JL redesign brings room, refinement, tech and on-road control, but iffy
P300 R-Dynamic HSE ergonomics and high prices grate – now with increased safety kit
$71,940 L4T 2.0 221 400 A8 1665 5.9 6.9 95 52 R THE PICK: Rubicon might be the most able off-roader despite diesel axing
R-Dnmc HSE P300 AWD
XF $51,950 V6 3.6 209 347 A8 1762 7.5 9.6 91 - A
R-Dynamic S P250
R-Dynamic SE P250 Second-gen XF finally scores the lighting detail and interior flair to $61,450 V6 3.6 209 347 A8 1762 7.6 9.6 91 - A
R-Dynamic HSE P250 match its supple ride and driver appeal, only to see the range shrivel
300 Sport THE PICK: The best engine into one primo spec, now with AWD $60,950 V6 3.6 209 347 A8 1900 7.9 9.7 91 - A
R-Dynamic S P250 $100,200 L4T 2.0 221 400 A8 1744 6.1 7.1 95 A $65,950 V6 3.6 209 347 A8 1900 7.9 9.7 91 - A
R-Dynamic SE P250
R-Dynamic SE D300 E-Pace $67,450 V6 3.6 209 347 A8 1992 7.9 10.3 91 - A
R-Dynamic SE P400
R-Dynamic HSE P400 Looking far more chic now that it’s been facelifted, the latest E-Pace Gladiator
SVR brings big improvements in cabin tech and luxury
THE PICK: The 300 Sport with mild-hybrid system and adaptive AWD The dual-cab for those who go off-road. Hugely capable, and looks
tough. Rubicon has electronically locking differentials, but no diesels
$63,900 L4T 2.0 184 365 A9 1782 7.5 7.7 98 A THE PICK: Rubicon affords extra off-road gear for little extra cash
$67,200 L4T 2.0 184 365 A9 1782 7.5 7.7 98 A $75,490 V6 3.6 209 347 A8 2104 - 11.2 91 - A
$71,300 L4T 2.0 184 365 A9 1782 7.5 7.7 98 A $76,490 V6 3.6 209 347 A8 2215 - 12.4 91 - 03/20 A
$79,600 L4T 2.0 221 400 A9 1877 6.9 8.0 98 A Kia 7 years/unlimited
F-Pace
Trademark steering crispness, handling and space finally joined by a Picanto
cutting-edge interior and sparkling mild-hybrid straight sixes
THE PICK: P400 with its electric supercharger, or mad-hatter SVR Scores for packaging, agility, fun (especially the GT) and industry-best
warranty. Recently updated with styling tweaks and more equipment
$74,990 L4T 2.0 184 365 A8 1897 7.3 7.4 95 A THE PICK: Manual cars are more fun, though the auto isn’t bad
$79,600 L4T 2.0 184 365 A8 1897 7.3 7.4 95 A S $15,190 L4 1.2 62 122 M5 976 12.0 5.0 91 46 F
S
$94,940 L6TDH 3.0 221 650 A8 2083 6.4 - D A GT-Line $16,790 L4 1.2 62 122 A4 995 11.7 6.9 91 47 F
GT-Line
$97,400 L6TH 3.0 294 550 A8 2028 5.4 - 95 A GT $16,640 L4 1.2 62 122 M5 995 12.0 5.8 91 47 F
$109,150 L6 3.0 294 550 A8 2028 5.4 - 95 A $18,240 L4 1.2 62 122 A4 995 12.0 5.8 91 47 F
$141,040 V8S 5.0 405 700 A8 2058 4.0 12.2 98 A $19,490 L3T 1.0 74 172 M5 1007 12.1 7.3 91 48 F
130 whichcar.com.au/wheels
HYUNDAI – KIA
YOUR COMPLETE NEW CAR BUYER’S GUIDE
WHAT IT ALL MEANS
PRICE Recommended retail figure at time of publication (asterisk indicates driveaway price)
ENGINE TYPE L, in-line; V, vee; F, flat. Number of cylinders. T, turbo; S, supercharged; D, diesel;
H, hybrid; E, electric SIZE Litres or kWh POWER kW TORQUE Nm TRANSMISSION M, manual; A,
auto; D, dual-clutch; C, CVT WEIGHT Kerb, kg 0-100 km/h, acceleration in seconds (Wheels as-tested
figures in italics) FUEL CONS Consumption in litres, or kWh, per 100km RON Octane of fuel required,
as numbered, or D for diesel RESALE percent, 3-year resale in Glass’s ISSUE TESTED month/year
DRIVE A, all-wheel; F, front; R, rear. Any figure in bold is our own estimate.
Price
Rio Engine
type
Size
Power
Torque
Trans.
Kerb
weight
0-100
Fuel cons.
RON
Resale %
Issue
tested
Drive
Price
Engine
type
Size
Power
Torque
Trans.
Kerb
weight
0-100
Fuel cons.
RON
Resale %
Issue
tested
Drive
Updated Rio ditches the fun-sapping four-speed auto for much-
improved six-speed unit. Roomy cabin and warranty are key strengths
THE PICK: GT-Line, even with turbo lag, hard ride and high-ish price
S $18,590 L4 1.4 74 133 M6 1112 12.0 5.6 91 - F
S
Sport $20,890 L4 1.4 74 133 A6 1137 12.0 6.2 91 - F
Sport
GT-Line $20,090 L4 1.4 74 133 M6 1112 12.0 5.6 91 - F S $36,090 L4TD 2.0 136 400 A8 1590 9.5 6.4 D 54 A
SX $30,790
S $22,390 L4 1.4 74 133 A6 1132 12.0 6.0 91 - F SX $32,790 L4 2.0 114 192 M6 1506 10.2 7.9 91 - F
S SX $38,190
S hatch $24,490 L3T 1.0 74 172 D7 1176 11.5 5.4 91 - F SX+ $37,990 L4 2.0 114 192 A6 1559 10.4 7.9 91 52 F
S hatch SX+ $43,390
Sport Cerato GT-Line $45,290 L4TD 2.0 136 400 A8 1590 9.5 6.4 D 54 A
Sport GT-Line $48,190
Sport hatch Compelling value thanks to a leading warranty, space, practicality and L4 2.0 114 192 A6 1532 10.4 11.2 91 54 06/17 F
Sport hatch spec, but lacks sophistication and polish of better rivals like Mazda 3
GT THE PICK: GT a little ragged dynamically but fast, fun and keenly priced L4TD 2.0 136 400 A8 1590 9.5 6.4 D 55 A
GT hatch
$21,490 L4 2.0 112 192 M6 1339 8.0 7.1 91 47 F L4 2.4 135 237 A6 1559 10.4 8.5 91 53 A
200S
GT-Line $24,290 L4 2.0 112 192 A6 1362 8.0 7.1 91 47 F L4TD 2.0 136 400 A8 1590 9.5 6.4 D 53 A
330S
GT $21,490 L4 2.0 112 192 M6 1301 8.0 7.1 91 47 F
S $24,290 L4 2.0 112 192 A6 1332 8.0 7.1 91 47 F New STONIC
S CRDi
Si $23,490 L4 2.0 112 192 M6 1339 8.0 7.1 91 48 F RIo-based baby SUV makes Australian debut
Si CRDi
SLi $26,290 L4 2.0 112 192 A6 1362 8.0 7.1 91 48 F
SLi CRDi
Platinum $23,90 L4 2.0 112 192 M6 1301 8.0 7.1 91 48 F Sidelined at launch back in 2017 in favour of the Seltos, the updated Stonic now gains
Platinum CRDi a berth due to the huge success of its small-SUV sister. Closely based on the Rio hatch
$26,290 L4 2.0 112 192 A6 1332 8.0 7.1 91 48 F and smaller than Seltos, the Stonic brings some Euro chic, and a manual for its 1.4-litre
S entry point. Up-spec turbo-triple from GT-Line is the mid-level unit in Western Europe.
S $33,490 L4T 1.6 150 265 D7 1395 6.9 6.8 91 48 F
$33,490 L4T 1.6 150 265 D7 1370 6.9 6.8 91 48 05/19 F
Stinger S $21,490 L4 1.4 74 133 M6 – – 6.0 91 F
S
Sparkly new lights, up-to-date tech and fruity GT exhaust make the Sport $22,990 L4 1.4 74 133 A6 – – 6.7 91 F
stylish, sporty rear-drive Stinger even more seductive Sport
THE PICK: They’re all fun to drive but Stinger GT has the most bite GT-Line $24,490 L4 1.4 74 133 M6 1192 – 6.0 91 F
$49,550 L4T 2.0 182 353 A8 1720 7.1 8.8 95 - 06/18 R S $25,990 L4 1.4 74 133 A6 1192 – 6.7 91 F
Sport
$57,230 L4T 2.0 182 353 A8 1720 6.9 8.8 95 - 03/19 R Sport+ $29,990 L3T 1.0 74 172 D7 1227 11.7 5.4 91 F
Sport+
$53,330 V6TT 3.3 274 510 A8 1793 4.9 10.2 95 - R GT-Line Seltos
$63,260 V6TT 3.3 274 510 A8 1793 5.1 10.2 95 - 03/18 R S Kia’s first crossover brings turbo AWD, oodles of boot space and a
S price to keep honest Hyundai cousin Kona, which shares its platform
Carnival Sport THE PICK: Sport+ turbo for range-best outputs at 5K less than GT-Line
Sport
Proving that people movers are still relevant, striking new Carnival Sport+ $25,990 L4 2.0 110 180 C 1355 8.7 8.0 91 - 01/20 F
knocks it out of the park with its space and design class Sport+
THE PICK: Si for value, yet it’s hard to ignore the Platinum’s plushness GT-Line $28,990 L4 2.0 110 180 C 1355 9.0 6.8 91 - F
GT-Line
$46,880 V6 3.5 216 355 A8 – – 9.6 91 - F $32,490 L4 2.0 110 180 C 1355 9.0 6.8 91 - F
$48,880 L4TD 2.2 148 440 A8 – – 6.5 D - F $35,990 L4T 1.6 130 265 D7 1470 8.5 7.6 91 - A
$52,380 V6 3.5 216 355 A8 – – 9.6 91 - F $41,400 L4T 1.6 130 265 D7 1470 8.5 7.6 91 - 03/20 A
$54,380 L4TD 2.2 148 440 A8 – – 6.5 D - F Sorento
$56,880 V6 3.5 216 355 A8 – – 9.6 91 - F Flash new family bus offers equipment levels and luxo-feel to rival the
best from Germany. A seriously persuasive large SUV
$58,880 L4TD 2.2 148 440 A8 – – 6.5 D - F THE PICK: Gutsy V6 petrol is front-drive only, so go diesel
$64,680 V6 3.5 216 355 A8 – – 9.6 91 - F $45,850 V6 3.5 200 332 A8 1941 7.8 9.7 91 - F
$66,680 L4TD 2.2 148 440 A8 – – 6.5 D - F $48,850 L4TD 2.2 148 440 D8 1956 9.2 6.1 D - A
Sportage $48,470 V6 3.5 200 332 A8 1941 7.8 9.7 91 - F
Rates for family focused cabin, easy controls, equipment, handling, $51,470 L4TD 2.2 148 440 D8 1956 9.2 6.1 D - A
warranty and design, but 2.0L petrol struggles and ride isn’t settled
THE PICK: Why no turbo-petrol, Kia? Go diesel every time $52,850 V6 3.5 200 332 A8 1941 7.8 9.7 91 - F
$28,690 L4 2.0 114 192 M6 1506 9.9 7.9 91 - F $55,850 L4TD 2.2 148 440 D8 1956 9.2 6.1 D - A
$30,690 L4 2.0 114 192 A6 1559 10.4 7.9 91 52 F $60,070 V6 3.5 200 332 A8 1941 7.8 9.7 91 - F
$63,070 L4TD 2.2 148 440 D8 1946 9.2 6.1 D - A
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Data
bank
Price
Engine
type
Size
Power
Torque
Trans.
Kerb
weight
0-100
Fuel cons.
RON
Resale %
Issue
tested
Drive
Price
Engine
type
Size
Power
Torque
Trans.
Kerb
weight
0-100
Fuel cons.
RON
Resale %
Issue
tested
Drive
Lamborghini 2 years/unlimited
D240 $83-94K L4TD 2.0 177 500 A9 1955 7.7 6.3 D 61 A
P200 $62-71K L4T 2.0 147 320 A9 1845 8.5 8.1 95 61 10/19 A
Huracan P250 $66-75K L4T 2.0 183 365 A9 1893 7.5 8.1 95 61 02/20 A
Sure, rear vision is rubbish and it ain’t cheap, but the engine is aural P300 $82-93K L4T 2.0 221 400 A9 1925 6.6 8.2 95 61 A
sex, it’s fantastic to drive, and the Performante is next-level wild
THE PICK: We’re fans of the base rear-driver, but partial to Performante Discovery
LP 580-2 $378,900 V10 5.2 426 540 D7 1389 3.4 11.9 98 - 12/16 R Fresh mild-hybrid straight-sixes expand Disco’s all-terrain talents to
LP 580-2 Spyder include Prado-crushing performance and refinement
LP 610-4 $429,000 V10 5.2 426 540 D7 1509 3.6 12.1 98 - R THE PICK: The punchy diesel gets the nod for big trips and towing ease
LP 610-4 Spyder
Evo $428,000 V10 5.2 449 560 D7 1422 3.2 12.5 98 - 08/14 A S D300 $99,900 L6TTD 3.0 221 650 A8 2362 6.8 TBC D - A
Performante
Performante Spyder $470,800 V10 5.2 449 560 D7 1524 3.4 12.3 98 - A SE D300 $106,100 L6TTD 3.0 221 650 A8 2362 6.8 TBC D - A
S $459,441 V10 5.2 470 600 D7 1422 2.9 13.7 98 - 12/19 A HSE D300 $113,700 L6TTD 3.0 221 650 A8 2362 6.8 TBC D - A
S Roadster
SVJ $483,866 V10 5.2 470 600 D7 1382 2.9 13.7 98 - 07/17 A R-Dynamic S D300 $105,200 L6TTD 3.0 221 650 A8 2362 6.8 TBC D - A
$532,635 V10 5.2 470 600 D7 1507 3.1 14.0 98 - A R-Dynamic SE D300 $111,400 L6TTD 3.0 221 650 A8 2362 6.8 TBC D - A
Aventador R-Dynamic HSE D300 $118,600 L6TTD 3.0 221 650 A8 2362 6.8 TBC D - A
Probably the last deafening roar of the atmo supercar. Updates to R-Dynamic S P360 $105,200 L6ST 3.0 265 500 A8 2342 6.5 TBC 98 - A
suspension and fabulous V12 have lifted its game. Could be collectible
THE PICK: Hey, it’s only (your) money, so go set a ’Ring PB in the SVJ R-Dynamic SE P360 $111,400 L6ST 3.0 265 500 A8 2342 6.5 TBC 98 - A
R-Dynamic HSE P360 $118,600 L6ST 3.0 265 500 A8 2342 6.5 TBC 98 - A
$788,914 V12 6.5 544 690 S7 1575 2.9 16.0 98 - 05/17 A Velar
$825,530 V12 6.5 544 690 S7 1625 3.0 16.9 98 - A Land Rover finally saw sense and refined the Velar range. Special,
opulent, athletic. The stylish Velar is lofty in more ways than one
$949,640 V12 6.5 566 720 S7 1525 2.8 17.9 98 - A THE PICK: Style and substance throughout the range. Take your pick.
Urus R-Dynamic S P250 $87,000 L4T 2.0 184 365 A8 1875 7.5 7.7 95 - A
Doesn’t look like anything else in the Lambo line-up, but retains R-Dynamic SE P250 $92,000 L4T 2.0 184 365 A8 1875 7.5 7.7 95 - A
Raging Bull in a china shop spirit. Shockingly quick for an SUV
THE PICK: This, or a Cayenne Turbo and a secondhand 997 911 R-Dyn SE D200 MHEV $96,000 L4TDH 2.0 150 430 A8 1928 8.2 5.3 D - A
$391,968 V8TT 4.0 478 850 A8 2200 3.6 12.7 98 - A R-Dyn SE P400 MHEV $117,000 L6ST 3.0 294 550 A8 2010 5.5 8.9 95 - A
Land Rover R-Dyn SE P400 MHEV $127,000 L6ST 3.0 294 550 A8 2010 5.5 8.9 95 - A
5 years/unlimited Range Rover Sport
Land Rover Discovery Sport V6 diesels out, inline Ingenium sixes in for this classy and astonishingly
competent luxury SUV. Ensure you spec Terrain Response
Perfect sizing, ace proportions, strong (fresh) engines, eager chassis THE PICK: Petrol V8 tempting, if you own an oil well. Otherwise P400e
and the right badge, plus updated styling inside and out. Winner
THE PICK: P250 or D240, then pick a trim that suits D250 SE $113,485 L6TD 3.0 183 600 A8 2134 8.5 8.0 D 53 A
D300 SE $122,985 L6TTD 3.0 221 650 A8 2178 7.3 8.0 D 53 A
P200 S $60,500 L4T 2.0 147 320 A9 1947 9.2 8.1 95 61 A D300 HSE $139,685 L6TTD 3.0 221 650 A8 2178 7.3 8.0 D 53 A
D150 S
P250 SE $62,450 L4TD 2.0 110 380 A9 2028 11.8 5.7 D 61 A D300 HSE Dynamic $146,585 L6TTD 3.0 221 650 A8 2178 7.3 8.0 D 53 A
D180 SE
D240 HSE $67,852 L4T 2.0 184 365 A9 1985 7.8 8.1 95 61 A D300 Autobio. Dyn $179,755 L6TTD 3.0 221 650 A8 2178 7.3 8.0 D 53 A
P200 R-Dynamic S
D150 R-Dynamic S $67,910 L4TD 2.0 132 430 A9 2028 10.1 5.9 D 61 A D350 HSE $152,813 L6TTD 3.0 258 700 A8 2203 6.9 8.4 D 53 A
P250 R-Dynamic SE
D180 R-Dynamic SE $79,700 L4TD 2.0 177 500 A9 2090 7.9 6.6 D 61 A D350 HSE Dynamic $160,113 L6TTD 3.0 258 700 A8 2203 6.9 8.4 D 53 A
D240 R-Dynamic HSE
$63,100 L4T 2.0 147 320 A9 1947 9.2 8.1 95 61 A P300 SE $106,113 L4T 2.0 221 400 A8 2076 7.3 9.2 95 53 A
D200
D240 $65,050 L4TD 2.0 110 380 A9 2028 11.8 5.7 D 61 A P400e PHEV SE $134,166 L4TH 2.0 297 640 A8 2464 6.3 2.8 95 53 A
D240 S
D240 SE $71,232 L4T 2.0 184 365 A9 1985 7.8 8.1 95 62 A P400e PHEV HSE $149,696 L4TH 2.0 297 640 A8 2464 6.3 2.8 95 53 A
P400 S
P400 SE $70,510 L4TD 2.0 132 430 A9 2028 10.1 5.9 D 61 08/20 A P525 HSE Dynamic $175,613 V8S 5.0 386 625 A8 2323 5.3 12.8 95 53 A
P400 HSE
D240 First Ed $82,900 L4TD 2.0 177 500 A9 2090 7.9 6.6 D 61 A P525 Autobio. Dyn $205,283 V8S 5.0 386 625 A8 2323 5.3 12.8 95 53 A
P400 X
Land Rover Defender P575 SVR $244,249 V8S 5.0 423 700 A8 2323 4.5 12.8 95 53 A
D150
D180 New-gen Defender is just as capable off-road but now miles better on P575 SVR Carbon Ed $273,906 V8S 5.0 423 700 A8 2323 4.5 12.8 95 53 A
it. Plenty of design nods to the original, yet also thoroughly modern. Nice
THE PICK: Aussie diesel allocation sold out for now. Go petrol. Range Rover
$69,626 L4TTD 2.0 147 430 A8 2248 10.3 8.9 D - A Berserk pricing reflects headroom in this market, but there’s not a duff
pick here. If you have the means, congrats. All-new Mk5 out in 2021
$75,536 L4TTD 2.0 177 430 A8 2248 9.1 8.9 D - A THE PICK: Huge weight deserves the low-rpm shove of the V8 diesel
$83,435 L4TTD 2.0 177 430 A8 2248 9.1 8.9 D - A SDV6 Vogue $195,738 V6TTD 3.0 202 625 A8 2160 7.9 6.9 D 61 A
$90,936 L4TTD 2.0 177 430 A8 2248 9.1 8.9 D - A 3.0 i6 Vogue $201,031 L6T 3.0 294 550 A8 2330 7.4 11.5 95 61 A
$95,335 L6T 3.0 294 550 A8 2286 6.1 11.2 95 - A Si4 PHEV Vogue $211,313 L4TH 2.0 297 640 A8 - 6.4 2.8 95 61 A
$102,736 L6T 3.0 294 550 A8 2286 6.1 11.2 95 - A SDV8 Vogue $211,830 V8TTD 4.4 250 740 A8 2360 6.9 8.7 D 61 A
$112,535 L6T 3.0 294 550 A8 2286 6.1 11.2 95 - A SDV8 Vogue SE $230,431 V8TTD 4.4 250 740 A8 2360 6.9 8.7 D 61 05/13 A
$102,135 L4TTD 2.0 177 430 A8 2248 9.1 8.9 D - A SDV8 Autobiography $260,946 V8TTD 4.4 250 740 A8 2360 6.9 8.7 D 61 A
$136,736 L6T 3.0 294 550 A8 2388 6.4 11.2 95 - A SDV8 Autobio. LWB $270,946 V8TTD 4.4 250 740 A8 - 7.2 8.7 D 61 A
Range Rover Evoque 4.4 SVAutobiog. LWB $376,806 V8TTD 4.4 250 740 A8 - - - D 61 A
Behind samey, softer styling is a roomier, richer, comfier, higher-tech 5.0 Autobiography $273,846 V8S 5.0 386 625 A8 2330 5.4 13.8 95 61 A
experience. Pricey though, and COTY exposed diesel’s dynamic flaws
THE PICK: P300 HSE feels properly posh and grown-up 5.0 Autobiography LWB $284,045 V8S 5.0 386 625 A8 2413 5.5 13.8 95 61 A
$64-73K L4TD 2.0 110 380 A9 1891 11.2 5.7 D 61 02/20 A 5.0 SVAutobio. Dynamic $345,806 V8S 5.0 415 700 A8 2413 5.5 12.8 95 61 A
$67-76K L4TD 2.0 132 430 A9 1891 9.3 5.8 D 61 A 5.0 SVAutobiog. LWB $403,306 V8S 5.0 415 700 A8 2413 5.5 12.8 95 61 A
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132 whichcar.com.au/wheels
LDV 5 years/130,000km LAMBORGHINI – LOTUS
YOUR COMPLETE NEW CAR BUYER’S GUIDE
WHAT IT ALL MEANS
PRICE Recommended retail figure at time of publication (asterisk indicates driveaway price)
ENGINE TYPE L, in-line; V, vee; F, flat. Number of cylinders. T, turbo; S, supercharged; D, diesel;
H, hybrid; E, electric SIZE Litres or kWh POWER kW TORQUE Nm TRANSMISSION M, manual; A,
auto; D, dual-clutch; C, CVT WEIGHT Kerb, kg 0-100 km/h, acceleration in seconds (Wheels as-tested
figures in italics) FUEL CONS Consumption in litres, or kWh, per 100km RON Octane of fuel required,
as numbered, or D for diesel RESALE percent, 3-year resale in Glass’s ISSUE TESTED month/year
DRIVE A, all-wheel; F, front; R, rear. Any figure in bold is our own estimate.
D90 Price
Engine
type
Size
Power
Torque
Trans.
Kerb
weight
0-100
Fuel cons.
RON
Resale %
Issue
tested
Drive
Price
Engine
type
Size
Power
Torque
Trans.
Kerb
weight
0-100
Fuel cons.
RON
Resale %
Issue
tested
Drive
For those seeking a Prado-sized wagon but can’t afford the real deal.
Petrol donk is decent, as is the handling. Lots of gear and space, too.
THE PICK: All-paw Executive petrol for off-road ability and value
Mode $35,990 L4T 2.0 165 350 A6 2085 - 10.2 95 - F New LS
Executive
Executive $39,990 L4T 2.0 165 350 A6 2085 - 10.2 95 - F S-Class rival cops a refresh
Executive
$43,990 L4T 2.0 165 350 A6 2285 - 10.9 95 - A
Pro
Pro $47,990 L4TD 2.0 160 480 A8 2370 - 9.1 D - A
Luxe
Luxe T60 The LS model enhancement for ’21 is crowned by a huge new 12.3-inch touchscreen
Mega Tub (with quaint analogue clock) but covers a multitude of areas including ride comfort,
Mega Tub We used to snigger at Chinese-made utes. Not anymore. T60 drives hybrid and V6 powertrain refinements, as well as new grilles, bumpers, tail-light
Trailrider 2 well, is adequate off-road and includes Aussie-honed suspension accents and ‘BladeScan’ LED headlights. Loads of neat new trim details too.
Trailrider 2 THE PICK: Luxe brings worthwhile equipment additions
Luxury $30,516 L4TD 2.8 110 360 M6 1895 - 8.8 D - A 500 F-Sport $195,953 V6TT 3.4 310 600 A10 2240 5.0 9.5 95 R
F-Sport 500h F-Sport
Sports Luxury $32,621 L4TD 2.8 110 360 A6 1925 - 9.6 D - A 500 Sports Luxury $195,953 V6H 3.5 264 n/a C 2235 5.4 6.6 95 R
500h Sports Luxury
300 Luxury $35,253 L4TD 2.8 110 360 M6 1945 - 8.8 D - A $201,078 V6TT 3.4 310 600 A10 2280 5.0 9.5 95 R
300 F-Sport 200 Luxury
300h Luxury $37,358 L4TD 2.8 110 360 A6 2005 - 9.6 D - A 200 Sports Luxury $201,078 V6H 3.5 264 n/a C 2295 5.4 6.6 95 R
300h F-Sport 200 F-Sport
350 F-Sport $36,831 L4TD 2.8 110 360 M6 1970 - 8.8 D - A 250h 2WD Lux UX
250h 2WD Sports Lux
300 Luxury $38,937 L4TD 2.8 110 360 A6 2030 - 9.6 D - A 250h F-Sport First model to switch to advanced TNGA platform, so is Lexus’s most
350 Luxury 250h AWD Sports Lux resolved SUV, but it’s essentially a Corolla in (effective) heels and drag
300 F-Sport $39,990 L4TD 2.0 120 375 M6 2005 - 8.5 D - A 250h AWD F-Sport THE PICK: Base Luxury is sweetest riding, the rest are far too harsh
350 F-Sport
F $42,095 L4TD 2.0 120 375 A6 2035 - 8.5 D - A 300 Luxury $46,500 L4 2.0 126 205 C 1490 9.2 5.8 95 56 F
F Carbon 300h Luxury
F Track Edition Lexus 300 Luxury $55,500 L4 2.0 126 205 C 1515 9.2 5.8 95 56 F
300h Luxury
500 4 years/100,000km 300 F-Sport $56,000 L4 2.0 126 205 C 1540 9.2 5.8 95 56 F
500h 300h F-Sport
500 Convertible 300 F-Sport $50,000 L4H 2.0 131 205 C 1575 8.5 4.5 95 57 F
300h F-Sport
300h Luxury CT200h 300 Sports Luxury $59,000 L4H 2.0 131 205 C 1600 8.5 4.5 95 57 F
300h F Sport 300h Sports Luxury
300h Sports Luxury Previous-Corolla-based CT200h a total fail, with excessive drone, dud $59,500 L4H 2.0 131 205 C 1625 8.5 4.5 95 57 F
steering, bouncy ride, noisy cabin and tight packaging. Please avoid 300 Luxury
300 Luxury THE PICK: UX and latest Corolla ZR Hybrid are light-years ahead 300 F-Sport $63,500 L4H 2.0 131 205 C 1635 8.7 4.7 95 57 A
300 F-Sport 300 Sports Luxury
350 F-Sport $41,750 L4H 1.8 100 142 C 1465 10.3 4.1 95 51 06/11 F 350 Luxury $64,000 L4H 2.0 131 205 C 1680 8.7 4.7 95 57 A
350 Sports Luxury 350 F-Sport
450h F-Sport $51,500 L4H 1.8 100 142 C 1465 10.3 4.1 95 53 F 350 Sports Luxury NX
450h Sports Luxury 450h Luxury
F $58,500 L4H 1.8 100 142 C 1465 10.3 4.1 95 54 F 450h F-Sport While eye-catching and punchy with a quality interior, underneath it’s
450h Sports Luxury an old RAV4, with a hard ride, too much noise and little finesse
IS 350L Luxury THE PICK: 300’s punchy turbo is good... but a new RAV4 Hybrid is better
350L Sports Luxury
If you want a Lexus rear-driver in the 3 Series mould then this 450hL Luxury $57,500 L4T 2.0 175 350 A6 1700 7.3 7.7 95 53 F
comprehensive ‘wide-track’ makeover is probably your last chance 450hL Sports Luxury
THE PICK: The lighter IS300 F-Sport with the sweet turbo four $60,500 L4H 2.5 147 210 C 1740 9.1 5.6 95 56 F
450d
$61,500 L4T 2.0 180 350 A8 1620 7.3 7.4 95 50 R 570 $62,000 L4T 2.0 175 350 A6 1755 7.1 7.9 95 56 A
570S
$70,000 L4T 2.0 188 350 A8 1650 7.3 7.4 95 50 R $65,000 L4H 2.5 147 210 C 1800 9.1 5.7 95 56 A
$64,500 L4H 2.5 164 221 C 1720 8.5 5.1 95 50 R $64,000 L4T 2.0 175 350 A6 1755 7.1 7.9 95 57 F
$73,000 L4H 2.5 164 221 C 1720 8.5 5.1 95 51 R $67,000 L4H 2.5 147 210 C 1800 8.9 5.7 95 59 08/15 F
$75,000 V6 3.5 232 380 A8 1635 5.9 9.7 95 51 R $68,500 L4T 2.0 175 350 A6 1860 7.1 7.9 95 53 A
RC $71,500 L4H 2.5 147 210 C 1895 9.1 5.7 95 56 A
Lots to savour, like arresting design, craftsmanship and brutal V8, $76,366 L4T 2.0 175 350 A6 1860 7.1 7.9 95 56 A
though rear seat is snug and four-pot turbo is somewhat vanilla
THE PICK: Go the V8-powered F and enjoy the real duality of character $79,088 L4H 2.5 147 210 C 1895 9.1 5.7 95 59 A
$67,890 L4T 2.0 180 350 A8 1675 7.5 7.3 95 56 R RX
$70,636 V6 3.5 233 378 A8 1680 6.1 9.4 95 56 R Love or hate the design, it grabs attention, as does the lack of steering
feel and busy ride. But it is spacious and leaves little on the options list
$75,636 L4T 2.0 180 350 A8 1700 7.5 7.3 95 56 R THE PICK: Turbo four is a peach, so consider a 300 F-Sport. Or XC60...
$78,636 V6 3.5 233 378 A8 - 6.1 9.4 95 56 02/16 R $71,556 L4T 2.0 175 350 A6 1890 9.2 8.1 95 61 F
$136,636 V8 5.0 351 530 A8 1780 4.5 10.9 98 53 07/19 R $86,436 L4T 2.0 175 350 A6 1890 9.2 8.1 95 61 F
$151,929 V8 5.0 351 530 A8 1860 4.5 10.9 98 53 R $92,336 L4T 2.0 175 350 A6 1890 9.2 8.1 95 61 F
$165,117 V8 5.0 351 530 A8 1715 4.2 11.2 98 53 R $81,526 V6 3.5 221 370 A8 1980 8.0 9.6 95 61 A
LC $93,606 V6 3.5 221 370 A8 1980 8.0 9.6 95 61 A
The V8 has the presence, power and poise, while the hybrid is spoilt by $99,506 V6 3.5 221 370 A8 1980 8.0 9.6 95 61 A
droning CT and dull soundtrack. Now with a drop-top V8 version
THE PICK: The V8, no question. $90,478 V6H 3.5 230 335 C 2150 7.7 5.7 95 61 A
$194,393 V8 5.0 351 540 A10 1930 4.5 11.6 98 67 R $102,828 V6H 3.5 230 335 C 2150 7.7 5.7 95 61 A
$195,553 V6H 3.5 264 350 C 1980 5.0 6.7 95 67 R $108,728 V6H 3.5 230 335 C 2150 7.7 5.7 95 61 A
$214,000 V8 5.0 351 540 A10 2035 - 12.7 95 - R $84,636 V6 3.5 221 370 A8 2105 8.0 10.6 95 61 A
ES $101,236 V6 3.5 221 370 A8 2105 8.0 10.6 95 61 A
Old one was for retired Americans or those who’d given up on life. All- $93,858 V6H 3.5 230 335 C 2275 8.0 6.0 95 61 A
new Mk7, with its accomplished platform, revolutionises the concept
THE PICK: Heaven’s waiting room renovated for the 2020s $110,457 V6H 3.5 230 335 C 2275 8.0 6.0 95 61 12/19 A
$60,488 L4H 2.5 151 213 C 1685 8.5 5.5 95 51 01/14 F LX
$69,755 L4H 2.5 151 213 C 1705 8.5 5.5 95 51 F Massive and truck-like to drive, LX can’t hide its LandCruiser bones,
making it an off-road dynamo. But Land Rover has this turf covered
$75,488 L4H 2.5 151 213 C 1705 8.5 5.5 95 51 F THE PICK: Go the diesel to avoid making oil companies even richer
GS $137,636 V8TD 4.5 200 650 A6 - - 9.5 D - A
A case of excellent engines and improved dynamics being undermined $146,636 V8 5.7 270 530 A8 2510 7.7 14.4 95 61 A
by lifeless steering and dated design. A surprising amount of character
THE PICK: M5-sized F is a roomier, better-equipped M3 alternative $168,767 V8 5.7 270 530 A8 2510 7.7 14.4 96 60 A
$74,838 L4T 2.0 180 350 A8 - 7.3 8.0 95 52 R Lotus 2 years/unlimited
$82,998 L4T 2.0 180 350 A8 - 7.3 8.0 95 52 03/16 R
$94,218 V6 3.5 233 378 A8 1740 6.3 9.7 95 46 R Elise
$105,948 V6 3.5 233 378 A8 1740 6.0 9.7 95 46 R You don’t get very much for your money, but that’s the point. This or a
McLaren 600LT for best steering in the business? Probably this
$107,468 V6H 3.5 254 - C 1910 5.9 6.3 95 46 R THE PICK: Unless you’re prepping for Targa Tassie, you don’t need the Cup
$119,198 V6H 3.5 254 - C 1910 5.9 6.3 95 46 R
$155,217 V8 5.0 351 530 A8 1865 4.9 11.3 95 52 06/16 R Sport 220 $87,990 L4S 1.8 162 250 M6 904 4.6 7.7 95 55 R
Cup 250
$107,990 L4S 1.8 181 250 M6 917 4.3 7.8 95 55 R
@wheelsaustralia 133
Data
bank
Price
Engine
type
Size
Power
Torque
Trans.
Kerb
weight
0-100
Fuel cons.
RON
Resale %
Issue
tested
Drive
Price
Engine
type
Size
Power
Torque
Trans.
Kerb
weight
0-100
Fuel cons.
RON
Resale %
Issue
tested
Drive
Exige G20 Pure sedan $26,590 L4 2.0 114 200 A6 1339 9.0 6.1 91 52 F
G20 Pure hatch $25,590
Even the Sport 350 feels as if the scenery speed’s been jacked to 11. G20 Pure hatch $26,590 L4 2.0 114 200 M6 1317 9.0 6.4 91 52 F
Utterly analogue, richly rewarding, wickedly uncompromising. Brilliant G20 Evolve sedan $27,290
THE PICK: No-cost Roadster options make weird and wonderful sense G20 Evolve sedan $28,290 L4 2.0 114 200 A6 1338 9.0 6.2 91 52 02/20 F
G20 Evolve hatch $27,290
Sport 350 $139,500 V6S 3.5 258 400 M6 1125 3.9 11.1 95 55 R G20 Evolve hatch $28,290 L4 2.0 114 200 M6 1316 9.0 6.3 91 52 F
Sport 350 Roadster G20 Touring sedan $29,590
Cup 410 $139,500 V6S 3.5 258 400 M6 1115 4.0 11.1 95 55 R G20 Touring sedan $30,590 L4 2.0 114 200 A6 1339 9.0 6.1 91 52 F
Cup 410 Roadster G20 Touring hatch $29,590
$169,990 V6S 3.5 306 420 M6 1017 3.9 11.1 98 55 08/19 R G20 Touring hatch $30,590 L4 2.0 114 200 M6 1317 9.0 6.4 91 52 F
GT410 Sport G25 Evolve sedan $30,090
$169,990 V6S 3.5 306 420 M6 1108 3.4 10.2 95 55 R G25 Evolve sedan $31,090 L4 2.0 114 200 A6 1338 9.0 6.2 91 52 06/19 F
GranSport G25 Evolve hatch $30,090
GranSport Evora G25 Evolve hatch $31,090 L4 2.0 114 200 M6 1316 9.0 6.3 91 52 F
S GranLusso G25 GT sedan $34,090
S GranSport Felt dated a decade ago and throwing more grunt at it won’t solve that. G25 GT sedan $35,090 L4 2.0 114 200 A6 1339 9.0 6.1 91 52 F
Fast and furious, new GT 410 Sport promises a civilised experience G25 GT hatch $34,090
GranSport THE PICK: Even the chassis’ brilliance isn’t enough to convince us G25 GT hatch $35,090 L4 2.0 114 200 M6 1317 9.0 6.4 91 52 F
GranLusso G25 Astina sedan $37,590
GTS GranSport $189,990 V6S 3.5 306 420 M6 1320 4.2 9.7 95 55 R G25 Astina sedan $38,590 L4 2.0 114 200 A6 1338 9.0 6.2 91 52 F
GTS GranLusso G25 Astina hatch $37,590
G25 Astina hatch $38,590 L4 2.5 139 252 M6 1350 8.6 6.2 91 52 F
350 X20 Astina sedan $40,590
Turbo Diesel Maserati X20 Astina sedan $41,590 L4 2.5 139 252 A6 1376 8.6 6.5 91 52 F
D Gran Lusso X20 Astina hatch $40,590
D Gransport 3 years/unlimited X20 Astina hatch $41,590 L4 2.5 139 252 M6 1339 8.6 6.3 91 52 F
S
S Gran Sport Ghibli L4 2.5 139 252 A6 1368 8.6 6.6 91 52 F
S Gran Lusso
GTS Finally, a beautiful, properly Italian alternative to the usual German L4 2.5 139 252 M6 1350 8.6 6.2 91 52 F
Trofeo luxo sedans. But it is heavy, and lacking in safety tech and V8 noise
THE PICK: You want the higher-output engine, so the S at a minimum L4 2.5 139 252 A6 1376 8.6 6.5 91 52 F
Sport
MC L4 2.5 139 252 M6 1339 8.6 6.3 91 52 F
Sport $139,990 V6TT 3.0 243 500 A8 1810 5.6 8.9 98 55 R L4 2.5 139 252 A6 1368 8.6 6.6 91 52 F
MC
$163,990 V6TT 3.0 243 500 A8 1810 5.6 8.9 98 55 R L4 2.5 139 252 M6 1362 8.6 6.2 91 52 F
G15 Pure hatch
G15 Pure hatch $163,990 V6TT 3.0 243 500 A8 1810 5.6 8.9 98 55 R L4 2.5 139 252 A6 1388 8.6 6.5 91 52 02/20 F
G15 Pure sedan
G15 Pure sedan $184,990 V6TT 3.0 301 550 A8 1810 5.0 9.6 98 55 R L4 2.5 139 252 M6 1351 8.6 6.2 91 52 F
G15 Evolve hatch
G15 GT hatch $184,990 V6TT 3.0 301 550 A8 1810 5.0 9.6 98 55 R L4 2.5 139 252 A6 1380 8.6 8.8 91 52 05/19 F
G15 GT sedan
Quattroporte L4T 2.0 132 224 M6 1417 8.2 5.3 95 52 F
G20 Pure sedan
While the GTS remains the pinnacle of luxury Italian motoring, only L4T 2.0 132 224 A6 1440 8.7 5.3 95 52 F
two variants provide V8 operatics. Chassis balance eases pain
THE PICK: If you can handle the flawed ride, it’s got to be V8 GTS L4T 2.0 132 224 M6 1416 8.2 5.3 95 52 F
$224,990 V6TT 3.0 243 500 A8 1860 6.2 9.1 98 - R L4T 2.0 132 224 A6 1439 8.7 5.3 95 52 09/20 F
$224,990 V6TT 3.0 243 500 A8 1860 6.2 9.1 98 - R
$299,990 V8TT 3.8 390 650 A8 1900 4.7 10.7 98 - R New 6
$299,990 V8TT 3.8 390 650 A8 1900 4.7 10.7 98 - R Mazda revives SP branding... on a 6
Levante
So big you’d never drive one in Italy, but interior is classy, engines Mazda’s range-wide revamp means the eight-year-old 6 gets amped for ’21 with a
strong, and handles like a Maserati SUV should new GT SP model (replacing the GT) sporting black 19-inch alloys, black mirror caps,
THE PICK: Now is not the time for economising. Go for the Trofeo a burgundy leather interior with heated seats, and ‘Turbo’ badge (also fitted to Atenza)
to denote its unchanged boosted engine. Polymetal Grey metallic debuts.
$125,000 V6TT 3.0 257 500 A8 2034 6.0 11.1 98 52 A
$129,990 V6TD 3.0 202 600 A8 2205 6.9 7.2 D 52 A
$144,990 V6TD 3.0 202 600 A8 2130 6.9 7.9 D 52 A Sport $34,590 L4 2.5 140 252 A6 1536 8.1 7.0 91 F
Sport wagon
$144,990 V6TD 3.0 202 600 A8 2130 6.9 7.9 D 52 A Touring $35,890 L4 2.5 140 252 A6 1553 8.1 7.0 91 F
Touring wagon
$164,990 V6TT 3.0 321 580 A8 2034 5.2 10.9 98 52 A GT SP $38,890 L4 2.5 140 252 A6 1536 8.1 7.0 91 F
GT SP wagon
$179,990 V6TT 3.0 321 580 A8 2034 5.2 10.9 98 52 A Atenza $40,190 L4 2.5 140 252 A6 1553 8.1 7.0 91 F
Atenza wagon
$179,990 V6TT 3.0 321 580 A8 2034 5.2 10.9 98 52 A $46,690 L4T 2.5 170 420 A6 1607 7.0 7.6 91 F
Roadster
$265,00 V8TT 3.8 405 730 A8 2095 4.2 13.5 98 52 A Roadster $47,990 L4T 2.5 170 420 A6 1613 7.0 7.6 91 F
Roadster GT
$330,000 V8TT 3.8 434 730 A8 2095 3.9 13.5 98 52 A Roadster GT $50,090 L4T 2.5 170 420 A6 1620 7.0 7.6 91 F
Roadster GT RS
GranTurismo RF $51,390 L4T 2.5 170 420 A6 1627 7.0 7.6 91 F
RF
Now over a dozen years old and feels it behind the wheel. But still so RF GT MX-5
RF GT
sensual to look at, seats four comfortably and oozes charisma RF GT RS Bilstein-equipped, track-focused RS models add another layer to the
THE PICK: MC is cool but Sport offers same power for $50K less RF GT Black Roof multi-talented, COTY-winning, adorably petite MX-5
RF GT Black Roof THE PICK: Roadster over RF, and manual over auto – especially the 1.5
$295,000 V8 4.7 338 520 S6 1880 4.8 15.5 95 48 R
Neo Sport $36,090 L4 1.5 97 152 M6 1021 8.3 6.2 95 - R
$345,000 V8 4.7 338 520 S6 1880 4.7 15.5 95 48 06/14 R Neo Sport
Maxx Sport $38,090 L4 1.5 97 152 A6 1038 8.3 6.4 95 - R
GranCabrio Maxx Sport
Maxx Sport LE $44,020 L4 2.0 135 205 M6 1035 6.5 6.8 95 - 09/19 R
More of a cruiser than a bruiser, it still sounds the business with the Maxx Sport AWD
roof down and that fabulous V8 kissing the sky. But she is pricey sTouring $46,020 L4 2.0 135 205 A6 1061 6.5 7.0 95 - R
THE PICK: In for a penny, in for pound, as they say. Has to be the MC sTouring
sTouring AWD $47,020 L4 2.0 135 205 M6 1052 6.5 6.8 95 - R
$335,000 V8 4.7 338 520 S6 1980 5.0 14.5 95 50 R
$41,400 L4 2.0 135 205 M6 1107 6.8 6.9 95 - R
$355,000 V8 4.7 338 520 S6 1973 4.9 14.5 95 49 R
$43,400 L4 2.0 135 205 A6 1134 6.8 7.2 95 - R
Mazda $48,100 L4 2.0 135 205 M6 1107 6.8 6.9 95 - R
5 years/unlimited $50,100 L4 2.0 135 205 A6 1134 6.8 7.2 95 - R
$51,100 L4 2.0 135 205 M6 1101 6.8 6.9 95 - R
2 $49,120 L4 2.0 135 205 M6 1107 6.8 6.9 95 - R
Facelift brings the axe to the previous entry model, meaning an end to $51,120 L4 2.0 135 205 A6 1134 6.8 7.2 95 - R
cheap ’n’ cheerful. Full safety suite plus engine tweaks help compensate
THE PICK: Suddenly a manual Pure hatch starts to look like smart money CX-3
$20,990 L4 1.5 82 144 M6 1035 10.8 4.9 91 52 F Yet another once-over for ’21, focusing on seat comfort and upgraded
multimedia, giving the evergreen CX-3 even more life
$22,990 L4 1.5 82 144 A6 1047 10.8 5.4 91 54 F THE PICK: With flashy tan/white interior, Maxx Sport LE, or anything AWD
$20,990 L4 1.5 82 144 M6 1045 10.8 4.9 91 54 F $22,890 L4 2.0 110 195 M6 1266 9.0 6.6 91 - F
$22,990 L4 1.5 82 144 A6 1060 10.8 5.4 91 54 F $24,890 L4 2.0 110 195 A6 1297 9.0 6.3 91 - F
$24,490 L4 1.5 82 144 A6 1047 10.9 5.5 91 54 04/20 F $24,890 L4 2.0 110 195 M6 1266 9.0 6.6 91 - F
$25,990 L4 1.5 82 144 A6 1047 10.8 5.4 91 54 F $26,890 L4 2.0 110 195 A6 1297 9.2 6.3 91 - 01/20 F
$25,990 L4 1.5 82 144 A6 1060 10.8 5.5 91 54 F $27,640 L4 2.0 110 195 A6 1297 9.0 6.3 91 - F
3 $28,890 L4 2.0 110 195 A6 1360 9.0 6.7 91 - A
New 3 rushes to the top of its class. Elegant interior a highlight and now $29,090 L4 2.0 110 195 M6 1266 9.0 6.6 91 - F
one of, if not the quietest in the segment. Skyactiv-X has finally arrived!
THE PICK: G25’s extra torque is worth it, otherwise Pure manual $31,090 L4 2.0 110 195 A6 1297 9.0 6.3 91 - 02/18 F
$25,590 L4 2.0 114 200 M6 1316 9.0 6.3 91 51 F $33,090 L4 2.0 110 195 A6 1360 9.0 6.7 91 - A
134 whichcar.com.au/wheels
LOTUS – MERCEDES-BENZ
YOUR COMPLETE NEW CAR BUYER’S GUIDE
WHAT IT ALL MEANS
PRICE Recommended retail figure at time of publication (asterisk indicates driveaway price)
ENGINE TYPE L, in-line; V, vee; F, flat. Number of cylinders. T, turbo; S, supercharged; D, diesel;
H, hybrid; E, electric SIZE Litres or kWh POWER kW TORQUE Nm TRANSMISSION M, manual; A,
auto; D, dual-clutch; C, CVT WEIGHT Kerb, kg 0-100 km/h, acceleration in seconds (Wheels as-tested
figures in italics) FUEL CONS Consumption in litres, or kWh, per 100km RON Octane of fuel required,
as numbered, or D for diesel RESALE percent, 3-year resale in Glass’s ISSUE TESTED month/year
DRIVE A, all-wheel; F, front; R, rear. Any figure in bold is our own estimate.
Price
Akari Engine F
Akari type
Akari AWD Size
Akari LE Power
Akari LE AWD Torque
100th Anniversary Trans.
Kerb
G20 Pure FWD weight
G20 Evolve FWD 0-100
G20 Touring FWD Fuel cons.
G20 Astina FWD RON
G25 Touring FWD Resale %
G25 Touring AWD Issue
G25 Astina FWD tested
G25 Astina AWD Drive
Price
Maxx FWD Engine
Maxx FWD type
Maxx Size
Maxx Sport FWD Power
Maxx Sport Torque
Maxx Sport Trans.
Touring Kerb
Touring weight
GT 0-100
GT Fuel cons.
GT RON
Akera Resale %
Akera Issue
Akera tested
Drive
Sport FWD $34,190 L4 2.0 110 195 M6 1278 9.0 6.6 91 -
Sport AWD
Touring $36,190 L4 2.0 110 195 A6 1309 9.0 6.3 91 - F
Touring
GT $38,190 L4 2.0 110 195 A6 1371 9.0 6.7 91 - A
GT
Asaki $36,690 L4 2.0 110 195 A6 1309 9.1 6.3 91 - 05/17 F McLaren
Asaki AWD
$38,690 L4 2.0 110 195 A6 1371 9.0 6.7 91 - A 3 years/unlimited
Sport
Sport AWD $37,690 L4 2.0 110 195 A6 1309 9.0 6.3 91 - F
Touring
Touring AWD CX-30
GT
GT AWD Built in response to customer demand, the CX-30 slots between the 540C
GT SP CX-3 and CX-5. And it’s a real winner... a COTY winner, actually
GT SP AWD THE PICK: G20s pleasing, but the G25 Touring FWD is Goldilocks spec Least-expensive Macca gets a slightly lower-output twin-turbo V8
Azami than the 570 in a brilliantly accessible and enjoyable package
Azami AWD $29,990 L4 2.0 114 200 A6 1339 10.2 6.5 91 52 F THE PICK: That’s done for you; now just wrestle with the options list
Azami LE AWD
100th Anniversary $31,490 L4 2.0 114 200 A6 1339 10.2 6.5 91 52 F $350,000 V8TT 3.8 397 540 D7 1350 3.5 10.7 98 - R
XT $34,990 L4 2.0 114 200 A6 1339 10.2 6.5 91 52 04/20 F
XT
XTR $38,990 L4 2.0 114 200 A6 1376 10.2 6.5 91 52 F 570
XTR
GT $36,490 L4 2.5 139 252 A6 1376 8.7 6.6 91 52 F Intimacy, turbo torque and surprising ride quality make 570 involving,
GT quick, flexible and capable, but flat-plane crank V8 note too tame
$38,490 L4 2.5 139 252 A6 1376 9.1 6.8 91 52 A THE PICK: We’re fans of the price and weight of the S, but Spider tasty
$41,490 L4 2.5 139 252 A6 1388 8.7 6.6 91 52 03/20 F S $395,000 V8TT 3.8 419 600 D7 1400 3.2 10.7 98 - R
GT
$43,490 L4 2.5 139 252 A6 1388 9.1 6.8 91 52 A S Spider $415,000 V8TT 3.8 419 600 D7 1450 3.3 10.7 98 - R
CX-5 Coupe $435,750 V8TT 3.8 419 600 D7 1503 3.2 10.7 98 - R
Spider
2017 redesign addressed refinement and rear-seat issues, but you’ll 600LT
need to go turbo to explore the chassis magic. AWD worth the extra GT
THE PICK: Not a dud in the range, but 2.5L turbo is worth the stretch Malleable handling and exquisite focus with searing performance
Coupe seal the Longtail as the Sport Series’ finest moment. Sublime
$30,980 L4 2.0 115 200 M6 1511 10.4 6.9 91 56 F Spider THE PICK: Toss a coin. Spider gives epic access to top-exit exhausts
$32,980 L4 2.0 115 200 A6 1556 10.4 6.9 91 57 F $455,000 V8TT 3.8 441 620 D7 1356 2.9 12.2 98 - R
$35,980 L4 2.5 140 252 A6 1633 9.5 7.5 91 57 A $496,000 V8TT 3.8 441 620 D7 1404 2.9 12.2 98 - 07/19 R
$36,290 L4 2.0 115 200 A6 1556 10.3 10.0 91 57 12/19 F GT
$39,290 L4 2.5 140 252 A6 1633 9.5 7.5 91 59 A McLaren tries its hand at the ‘practical’ supercar genre. Same
twin-turbo V8 recipe, now with added comfort and luggage space
$42,290 L4TD 2.2 140 450 A6 1708 8.5 6.0 D 59 A THE PICK: There’s only one, so it’s this or some business class flights
$40,980 L4 2.5 140 252 A6 1633 9.3 9.5 91 59 11/18 A $399,995 V8TT 4.0 456 630 D7 1530 3.2 10.8 98 - R
$43,980 L4TD 2.2 140 450 A6 1708 8.5 6.0 D 59 A 720S
$46,090 L4 2.5 140 252 A6 1670 9.5 11.5 91 59 13/17 A Superb steering and dynamics plus next-level performance headline
what is the thinking man’s supercar. Utterly blinding speed
$48,590 L4T 2.5 170 420 A6 1720 7.5 11.9 91 59 06/19 A THE PICK: We say Coupe, but Spider no less stiff and only 50kg heavier
$49,090 L4TD 2.2 140 450 A6 1744 8.5 6.0 D 59 A $509,000 V8TT 4.0 530 770 D7 1419 2.9 10.7 98 - 07/18 R
$48,330 L4 2.5 140 252 A6 1670 9.5 7.5 91 59 A $567,000 V8TT 4.0 530 770 D7 1468 2.9 12.2 98 - 05/19 R
$50,830 L4T 2.5 170 420 A6 1720 8.0 8.2 91 59 A Senna
$51,330 L4TD 2.2 140 450 A6 1744 8.5 6.0 D 60 A Furiously aggressive to look at and even more punishingly brutal to
drive, the Senna is a race car masquerading as a road-legal car
CX-8 THE PICK: Two decisions: options and to upgrade your life insurance
A tad dull but good at seating seven in comfort. A stretched CX-5, so $1,600,000 V8TT 4.0 597 800 D7 1374 2.8 12.4 98 - 08/18 R
narrower than huge CX-9. Finally available with a cheaper petrol option
THE PICK: Torque-rich oiler is best with all-wheel drive, so Sport AWD
$39,910 L4 2.5 140 252 A6 1782 10.9 8.1 91 - F Mercedes-Benz 5 years/unlimited
$46,910 L4TTD 2.2 140 450 A6 1971 9.0 6.0 D 60 A
$46,590 L4 2.5 140 252 A6 1782 10.9 8.1 91 - 05/20 F
$53,590 L4TTD 2.2 140 450 A6 1971 9.6 6.0 D - A A-Class
$57,900 L4TTD 2.2 140 450 A6 1899 9.2 5.9 D - F More about its dazzling MBUX infotainment screens than actual
driving sophistication unless you’re at A250 4Matic level or above
$61,900 L4TTD 2.2 140 450 A6 1971 9.6 6.0 D - A THE PICK: Avoid the bland 1.3s; try the A35 AMG or blistering A45 instead
$61,440 L4TTD 2.2 140 450 A6 1899 9.2 5.9 D - F A180 Hatchback $43,900 L4T 1.3 100 200 D7 1375 8.8 5.7 95 50 F
$65,440 L4TTD 2.2 140 450 A6 1971 9.1 9.9 D 61 08/18 A A180 Sedan $46,200 L4T 1.3 100 200 D7 1300 8.9 5.7 95 50 F
CX-9 A200 Sedan $50,400 L4T 1.3 120 250 D7 1310 8.1 5.7 95 51 F
Five years’ old this year but gamely holding station with its class-best A250 Hatchback $50,700 L4T 2.0 165 350 D7 1505 6.2 6.6 95 51 F
drivetrain, excellent dynamics, voluminous space and handsome style
THE PICK: The Touring is right up there but the new GT SP looks hot! A250 Sedan $53,000 L4T 2.0 165 350 D7 1465 6.3 6.4 95 51 F
$45,990 L4T 2.5 170 420 A6 1881 7.7 8.4 91 - 10/16 F A250 4Matic Hatchback $56,900 L4T 2.0 165 350 D7 1505 6.2 6.6 95 51 A
$49,990 L4T 2.5 170 420 A6 1953 7.6 9.0 91 - A A250 4Matic Sedan $59,200 L4T 2.0 165 350 D7 1525 6.3 6.6 95 51 A
$53,490 L4T 2.5 170 420 A6 1881 7.4 8.4 91 - 04/18 F A250e hatch $63,400 L4T 1.3 160 450 D8 - 6.6 1.6 95 - F
$57,490 L4T 2.5 170 420 A6 1953 7.6 9.0 91 - A A250e sedan $66,000 L4T 1.3 160 450 D8 - 6.6 1.6 95 - 12/20 F
$62,990 L4T 2.5 170 420 A6 1938 7.6 8.4 91 - F A35 AMG Hatchback $68,935 L4T 2.0 225 400 D7 1480 4.7 7.6 98 52 03/20 A
$66,990 L4T 2.5 170 420 A6 2010 7.6 9.0 91 - A A35 AMG Sedan $72,135 L4T 2.0 225 400 D7 1480 4.7 7.4 98 53 A
$63,490 L4T 2.5 170 420 A6 1938 7.6 8.4 91 - F A45 S AMG 4Matic+ $93,235 L4T 2.0 310 500 D8 1550 3.9 8.3 98 53 05/20 A
$67,490 L4T 2.5 170 420 A6 2010 7.6 9.0 91 - A CLA
$66,190 L4T 2.5 170 420 A6 1938 7.6 8.4 91 - F Swoopy, coupe-as-sedan styling now more cohesive, and it’s a decent
drive. Rear headroom a bit tight, but otherwise roomy enough
$70,625 L4T 2.5 170 420 A6 2010 7.6 9.0 91 - A THE PICK: New AMGs are our preference, though 250 beats 200
$73,875 L4T 2.5 170 420 A6 2010 7.6 9.0 91 - A 200 $60,700 L4T 1.3 120 250 D7 1345 8.2 5.7 95 47 F
$72,575 L4T 2.5 170 420 A6 1938 7.6 8.4 91 - F 250 4Matic $70,200 L4T 2.0 165 350 D7 1475 6.3 6.7 95 48 A
BT-50 35 AMG 4Matic $85,135 L4T 2.0 225 400 D7 1515 4.7 7.5 98 48 A
Mazda’s family face largely solves the divisive styling, while Isuzu’s CLA 45 S 4Matic+ $110,835 L4T 2.0 310 500 D8 1675 4.0 8.3 98 48 A
D-Max offers the platform replacing the Ford Rangers’. It’s a good rig
THE PICK: Any – it’s all about deciding how many goodies you want B-Class
$50,760 L4TD 3.0 140 450 M6 2005 - 7.7 D - A Spacious and sensible, the B-Class is essentially a blown-up A-Class
with family focused packaging, but newbie’s 1.3L is retrograde step
$53,260 L4TD 3.0 140 450 A6 2010 - 8.0 D - A THE PICK: Downsized engine at odds with big strides made elsewhere
$54,710 L4TD 3.0 140 450 M6 2020 - 7.7 D - A B180 Sports Tourer $47,800 L4T 1.3 100 200 D7 1330 9.0 5.7 95 50 F
$57,210 L4TD 3.0 140 450 A6 2030 - 8.0 D - A C-Class
$56,990 L4TD 3.0 140 450 M6 2025 - 7.7 D - A Crushes 3 Series and A4 in sales charts but trails both in our eyes (non-
AMG models aside). Amazing AMG flagship is a future classic, though
$59,990 L4TD 3.0 140 450 A6 2035 - 8.0 D - A THE PICK: Failing the latter, there’s plenty to like about the C300 Estate
C200 Estate $68,275 L4T 2.0 150 300 A9 1525 7.1 7.0 95 52 R
@wheelsaustralia 135
Data
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Engine
type
Size
Power
Torque
Trans.
Kerb
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Drive
C200 Coupe $70,600 L4T 2.0 150 300 A7 1505 7.1 7.0 95 56 R 35 $82,935 L4T 2.0 225 400 D8 1582 5.1 7.4 98 - A
C200 Cabriolet 45 S
C300 $89,842 L4T 2.0 150 300 A9 1645 7.1 7.0 95 56 R $107,035 L4T 2.0 310 500 D8 1690 4.3 9.3 98 - A
C300 Estate 200
C300 Coupe $74,200 L4T 2.0 190 370 A9 1530 6.2 11.1 95 52 04/19 R 250 4Matic GLB
C300 Cabriolet 35
C300e Sedan $76, 735 L4T 2.0 190 370 A9 1615 6.1 6.7 95 52 R Closer to GLC in size than a GLA, Merc’s newest SUV offers smart
C43 AMG 200 packaging, a rich spec, and useful third-row seating as standard
C43 AMG Estate $89,800 L4T 2.0 190 370 A7 1565 6.0 6.6 95 56 R 300 THE PICK: Like the A-Class, we’d avoid the 1.3. 250 is the sweet spot
C43 AMG Coupe 300e
C43 AMG Cabriolet $106,200 L4T 2.0 190 370 A9 1690 6.4 7.2 95 56 R 300 Coupe $59,000 L4T 1.3 120 250 D7 1480 9.1 6.2 95 - F
C63 S AMG 43 AMG
C63 S AMG Estate $81,687 L4TH 2.0 235 700 A9 1740 5.4 2.1 95 52 R 43 AMG Coupe $73,535 L4T 2.0 165 350 D8 1595 6.9 7.4 95 - 08/20 A
C63 S AMG Coupe 63 S AMG
C63 S AMG Cabriolet $111,935 V6TT 3.0 287 520 A9 1615 4.7 8.2 98 52 04/17 A 63 S AMG Coupe $88,535 L4T 2.0 225 400 D8 1680 5.2 7.6 98 - A
E200 Sedan $114,535 V6TT 3.0 287 520 A9 1735 4.8 8.3 98 52 A 300d GLC
E200 Coupe 450
E300 Sedan $116,500 V6TT 3.0 287 520 A9 1660 4.7 7.8 98 56 A 400d Ride would benefit from optional air suspension, but otherwise a
E300 Coupe 450 Coupe delight. Coupe’s reduced headroom only an issue for giants
E300 Cabriolet $130,000 V6TT 3.0 287 520 A9 1870 4.8 8.5 98 56 A 53 AMG Coupe THE PICK: 300 for non-AMG, or the full-fat 63 S if the budget allows
E300e Sedan 63 S Coupe
E53 Sedan $165,835 V8TT 4.0 375 700 A9 1865 4.2 8.6 98 52 07/19 R 53 AMG $67,400 L4T 2.0 145 320 A9 1760 7.8 7.8 95 61 R
E53 Coupe 63 S AMG
E53 Cabriolet $168,535 V8TT 4.0 375 700 A9 1650 4.1 8.7 98 52 10/15 R 63 S AMG Coupe $79,335 L4T 2.0 190 370 A9 1805 6.2 8.1 95 61 13/19 A
E63 S
$171,400 V8TT 4.0 375 700 A9 1800 4.4 15.7 98 56 08/19 R G63 $82,890 L4TH 2.0 235 700 A9 1955 5.7 2.6 98 - A
CLS350
CLS450 $190,100 V8TT 4.0 375 700 A9 1925 4.1 9.4 98 56 R 450 $89,535 L4T 2.0 190 370 A9 1825 6.3 - 95 61 A
CLS53 AMG 400d
E-Class 63 AMG $112,135 V6TT 3.0 287 520 A9 1870 4.9 10.4 98 61 A
S350d
S450 L A smarter, slicker, very stylish update of the evergreen E-Class proves it’s 400 $119,835 V6TT 3.0 287 520 A9 1875 4.9 10.4 98 61 A
S560 all the sedan (or coupe/cabriolet) most people could ever need
S560 L THE PICK: Anything with an AMG appendage is a modern classic X220d Pure $164,235 V8TT 4.0 375 700 A9 2025 3.8 - 98 61 04/20 A
S560 Coupe X250d Pure
S560 Cabriolet $96,900 L4T 2.0 145 320 A9 1715 7.5 8.0 98 42 R X250d Pure $171,535 V8TT 4.0 375 700 A9 2030 3.8 - 98 61 A
S63 AMG Coupe X250d Progressive
S63 AMG Cabriolet $101,900 L4T 2.0 145 320 A9 1725 7.6 7.9 98 42 R X250d Progressive GLE
S63 L AMG X250d Power
S650 L Maybach $117,900 L4T 2.0 190 370 A9 1755 6.2 8.0 98 43 R X250d Power All-new model brings longer wheelbase and roomier, classier cabin
X350d Progressive with optional third row. But only up-spec models truly deliver
SL500 $117,400 L4T 2.0 190 370 A9 1780 6.4 8.0 98 43 R X350d Power THE PICK: As per usual, either AMG best suit the GLE’s station in life
SL63 AMG
$130,900 L4T 2.0 190 370 A9 1875 - 8.2 98 43 R V220d $105,090 L4TD 2.0 180 500 A9 2090 7.8 10.0 D 61 09/19 A
GT S V250d Avantgarde
GT C $121,400 L4TH 2.0 235 700 A9 2025 5.7 2.2 98 - R $117,035 L6T 3.0 270 500 A9 2145 5.7 9.1 95 61 A
GT C Roadster Core
GT R $159,900 L6TH 3.0 320 520 A9 2019 4.5 9.2 98 55 A $124,035 L6TD 3.0 243 700 A9 2190 5.8 7.7 D 61 A
GT R Pro
$162,400 L6TH 3.0 320 520 A9 2021 4.4 9.3 98 55 A $137,000 L6T 3.0 270 500 A9 - 5.7 9.2 95 - A
GT53
GT63 S $170,990 L6TH 3.0 320 520 A9 2085 4.5 9.4 98 55 A $171,800 L6T 3.0 320 520 A9 2250 5.3 9.3 95 - A
200 $250,400 V8TT 4.0 450 850 A9 2094 3.4 12.3 98 45 A $222,700 V8TT 4.0 450 850 D9 2370 3.8 11.5 98 - A
250 4Matic
CLS $166,335 L6T 3.0 320 520 A9 2175 5.3 9.4 95 61 A
Doesn’t ride as smoothly as we’d like, and understated styling lacks $220,600 V8TT 4.0 450 850 A9 2345 3.8 12.4 98 - A
the presence of prior versions. Not a vintage generation
THE PICK: Doesn’t encourage the type of driving the 53 provides, so 450 $222,700 V8TT 4.0 450 850 A9 2370 3.8 12.6 98 - A
$142,835 L4T 2.0 220 400 A9 1775 6.1 7.8 95 44 R G-Class
$161,535 L6T 3.0 270 500 A9 1940 4.8 8.7 95 44 A The all-new G63 looks almost identical to the old model, but is vastly
improved. Despite looking like a cereal box, it’s devilishly intoxicating
$186,435 L6TT 3.0 320 520 A9 1980 4.5 7.8 95 52 A THE PICK: There’s nothing on the planet like this, so dive straight in
S-Class $259,235 V8TT 4.0 430 850 A9 2485 4.5 13.1 98 54 A
Half a century of Sonderklasse heritage tells here. This is still one of GLS
the finest luxury sedans, even though next-gen model drops this year
THE PICK: If you’re not an Uber Black driver, the S560 is properly lush Imposing US-sized SUV that can comfortably carry tall adults in its
third row, and scare them shitless in AMG form
$206,590 L6TD 3.0 210 600 A9 1970 6.8 5.5 D 48 R THE PICK: The head says straight-six diesel but the heart cries ’63!’
$238,935 V6TT 3.0 270 520 A9 1940 5.1 6.6 95 48 R $146,135 L6TH 3.0 270 500 A9 2370 6.2 9.2 98 - A
$283,335 V8TT 4.0 345 700 A9 2055 4.7 8.5 95 48 R $152,935 L6TD 3.0 243 700 A9 2415 6.3 7.7 D - 03/20 A
$309,535 V8TT 4.0 345 700 A9 2075 4.7 8.5 95 55 R $255,700 V8TT 4.0 450 850 A9 2555 4.2 13.0 98 - A
$326,635 V8TT 4.0 345 700 A9 2158 4.6 8.5 95 55 R EQC
$349,235 V8TT 4.0 345 700 A9 2176 4.6 9.9 95 - R Mercedes-Benz’s first attempt at a full electric vehicle is a
masterpiece. Comfortable and familiar, yet still innovative. Top marks
$384,335 V8TT 4.0 345 700 A9 2046 3.5 9.0 95 55 R THE PICK: Our COTY 2020 winner. Praise doesn’t get much higher
$414,735 V8TT 4.0 345 700 A9 2148 3.5 10.2 98 55 R $137,900 E 80 300 760 1R 2480 4.7 21.4 - - 02/20 A
$392,835 V8TT 4.0 450 900 A9 1970 4.3 9.0 98 48 R X-Class
$445,235 V12TT 6.0 463 1000 A7 2360 4.7 12.7 98 45 R Don’t call it a rebadged Navara... and now we won’t have to, with Merc
announcing the axe has fallen on the slow-selling ute.
SL THE PICK: The V6 turbo-diesel is a powerhouse – while its stocks last
Old stager has lost its looks a bit, but the punchy engine line-up $50,400 L4TD 2.3 120 403 M6 2126 12.9 7.8 D 56 A
means you’ll be gone before too many can ponder that fact
THE PICK: SL500 is perfectly adequate; otherwise buy a GT Roadster $52,400 L4TTD 2.3 140 450 M6 2140 11.1 7.7 D 56 A
$292,500 V8TT 4.7 335 700 A9 1795 4.3 9.1 95 67 R $55,300 L4TTD 2.3 140 450 A7 2147 11.8 7.9 D 56 A
$370,900 V8TT 5.5 430 900 A9 1845 4.1 10.2 95 51 R $54,900 L4TTD 2.3 140 450 M6 2130 11.1 7.7 D 56 A
GT $57,800 L4TTD 2.3 140 450 A7 2137 10.0 10.4 D 57 07/18 A
Roadster renders SL AMG redundant. Beautiful coupe is not quite a $61,600 L4TTD 2.3 140 450 M6 2155 11.1 7.7 D 54 A
sports car, not quite a grand tourer but close enough to both. Delicious
THE PICK: GT C almost as quick as R but a million times more liveable $64,500 L4TTD 2.3 140 450 A7 2161 11.8 7.9 D 57 A
$317,800 V8TT 4.0 384 670 D7 1570 3.8 9.5 98 67 09/15 R $73,270 V6TD 3.0 190 550 A7 2166 7.9 8.8 D 58 A
$336,900 V8TT 4.0 410 680 D7 1625 3.8 11.5 98 67 01/20 R $79,415 V6TD 3.0 190 550 A7 2190 7.9 8.8 D 58 A
$362,800 V8TT 4.0 410 680 D7 1660 4.0 14.3 98 67 10/17 R V-Class
$368,700 V8TT 4.0 430 700 D7 1555 4.0 20.6 98 67 03/19 R Transport for your VIPs just got classier, with new looks, interior and
safety tech allied to a diesel donk well up for hauling groups of eight
$453,200 V8TT 4.0 430 700 D7 1530 3.6 12.4 98 - R THE PICK: The Avantgarde for more pep at your pedal
GT 4-Door $83,130 L4TD 2.1 120 380 D7 2135 8.5 6.3 D 53 R
Much more than just a swoopier E63 or the missing CLS63. In fact, this $97,730 L4TD 2.1 140 440 D7 2135 8.0 6.7 D 51 R
ballistic sports-sedan/coupe may just be AMG’s most resolved model
THE PICK: The $100K premium is huge, but you’d be nuts not to pay it
$256,235 L6TT 3.0 320 520 A9 1970 4.5 9.4 98 67 A MG
$358,735 V8TT 4.0 470 900 A9 2045 3.2 11.3 98 67 09/19 A 7 years/unlimited
GLA
Lacks the original’s taut styling, but second-gen GLA offers the same MG3
goodness as new A-Class in an SUV body. Should sell like crazy then.
THE PICK: Like all of Merc’s compact range, go the 250 4Matic Finally gets auto-only range, but it’s a four-speed dunger. New design
looks good, but do not be confused by the badge. It’s Chinese
$55,100 L4T 1.3 120 250 D7 1410 8.7 5.7 95 - F THE PICK: Have you considered a Suzuki Swift?
$66,500 L4T 2.0 165 350 D8 1525 6.7 6.9 95 - A $16,490 L4 1.5 82 150 A4 1170 12.5 6.7 91 46 F
136 whichcar.com.au/wheels
MERCEDES-BENZ – MITSUBISHI
YOUR COMPLETE NEW CAR BUYER’S GUIDE
WHAT IT ALL MEANS
PRICE Recommended retail figure at time of publication (asterisk indicates driveaway price)
ENGINE TYPE L, in-line; V, vee; F, flat. Number of cylinders. T, turbo; S, supercharged; D, diesel;
H, hybrid; E, electric SIZE Litres or kWh POWER kW TORQUE Nm TRANSMISSION M, manual; A,
auto; D, dual-clutch; C, CVT WEIGHT Kerb, kg 0-100 km/h, acceleration in seconds (Wheels as-tested
figures in italics) FUEL CONS Consumption in litres, or kWh, per 100km RON Octane of fuel required,
as numbered, or D for diesel RESALE percent, 3-year resale in Glass’s ISSUE TESTED month/year
DRIVE A, all-wheel; F, front; R, rear. Any figure in bold is our own estimate.
Price
Engine F
type
Size
Power
Torque
Trans.
Kerb
weight
0-100
Fuel cons.
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Resale %
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Excite $18,490 L4 1.5 82 150 A4 1170 12.5 6.7 91 47
ZS Excite ZS/ZST
ZS Excite Plus
ZS Essence The ZST is related to the ZS, but it’s more modern, with extra safety kit
ZST Excite and a new turbo engine the highlights. However, it’s more expensive…
ZST Essence THE PICK: Balance budget and oomph with one of the turbo units
ZST EV Essence
$20,990 L4 1.5 84 150 A4 1255 13.2 7.1 91 50 F
Vibe
Excite $22,990 L3T 1.0 82 160 A6 1245 13.2 6.7 91 52 F ES $16,490 L3 1.2 57 100 C 895 14.5 4.7 91 41 F
Essence LS
Anfield Edition $24,990 L3T 1.0 82 160 A6 1245 13.2 6.7 91 52 F $17,490 L3 1.2 57 100 C 895 14.5 4.7 91 41 F
ES
Cooper $29,490* L3T 1.3 115 230 A6 1295 – 7.1 91 – F ES ASX
Cooper MR
Cooper S $32,490* L3T 1.3 115 230 A6 1295 – 7.1 91 – F ES ADAS New 2.4L in upper range brings usefully more torque. Styling, safety
Cooper S LS and tech tweaks help, but the less spent the better. Now 10+ years old
JCW $43,990* E 45 105 353 1R 1532 8.2 18.6 – – F GSR THE PICK: Sporty MR and GSR look good, but ES is best for value
JCW Exceed
Electric First Edition HS $23,990 L4 2.0 110 197 M5 1350 10.0 7.7 91 48 F
ES
Cooper The HS progresses for the Chinese-owned British brand on safety, LS $25,990 L4 2.0 110 197 C 1380 9.7 10.4 91 48 01/20 F
Cooper packaging, multimedia and design fronts. A dynamic improvement? No LS AWD
Cooper S THE PICK: Starting to get expensive at this price point. Go for the Vibe Aspire $27,740 L4 2.0 110 197 C 1380 10.0 7.6 91 – F
Cooper S Exceed
$29,990 L4T 1.5 119 250 D7 1520 11.0 7.3 91 56 04/20 F Exceed AWD $27,740 L4 2.0 110 197 C 1380 10.0 7.6 91 48 F
Cooper
Cooper S $32,990 L4T 1.5 119 250 D7 1520 11.0 7.3 91 57 04/20 F ES 2WD $28,690 L4 2.0 110 197 C 1380 10.0 7.6 91 48 F
JCW ES 2WD 7 Seat
$36,990 L4T 1.5 119 250 D7 1520 11.0 7.3 91 – F ES AWD 7 Seat $30,740 L4 2.4 123 222 C 1390 9.5 7.9 91 – F
Cooper S LS 2WD
Cooper S $37,990 L4T 1.5 119 250 D7 1520 11.0 7.3 91 – F LS AWD $33,240 L4 2.4 123 222 C 1390 9.5 7.9 91 46 13/19 F
JCW Pure LS AWD
JCW Exceed AWD Eclipse Cross
Exceed AWD
Cooper Mini ES PHEV Substantial visual makeover makes Eclipse Cross appear more refined
Cooper S PHEV GSR
Hybrid 3 years/unlimited Exceed PHEV and purposeful than its ageing underpinnings might suggest
JCW Pure THE PICK: To contain its turbocharged torque, something with AWD
JCW GLX
Hatch GLS $30,290 L4T 1.5 110 250 C 1472 – 7.3 91 – F
ES Exceed
Famous kart-like responses still present, and there’s true BMW solidity $32,590 L4T 1.5 110 250 C 1486 – 7.3 91 – F
and tech to go with the fun, but what’s with the Union Jack lights? GLX
THE PICK: Cooper S – but only with optional adaptive dampers GLS $35,090 L4T 1.5 110 250 C 1550 – 7.7 91 – A
GLX $34,990 L4T 1.5 110 250 C 1499 – 7.3 91 – F
GLX
$30,750 L3T 1.5 100 220 M6 1085 7.9 5.5 95 48 06/14 F GLX ADAS $38,290 L4T 1.5 110 250 C 1535 – 7.3 91 – F
GLX ADAS
$33,250 L3T 1.5 100 220 D7 1115 7.8 5.3 95 48 F GLX-R $40,790 L4T 1.5 110 250 C 1600 – 7.7 91 – A
GLX-R
$41,200 L4T 2.0 141 280 M6 1160 6.8 6.3 95 50 06/14 F GLX+ Outlander
GLX+
$44,000 L4T 2.0 141 280 D7 1175 6.7 5.5 95 50 F GLS Roomy, if ancient and dorky medium SUV that can squeeze in seven
GLS seats in petrol form, or plug-in hybrid efficiency in PHEV variants
$50,900 L4T 2.0 170 320 M6 1205 6.3 6.9 95 61 F GLS Premium THE PICK: It’s no rally hero but the PHEV GSR has appeal
GSR
$53,850 L4T 2.0 170 320 A8 1220 6.1 6.0 95 61 F $29,490 L4 2.0 110 190 M5 1400 10.0 7.0 91 48 F
$59,900 E 33 135 270 R1 1320 7.3 14.1 – – 09/20 F $31,790 L4 2.4 124 220 C 1465 9.5 7.2 91 48 F
5-door $34,690 L4 2.4 124 220 C 1525 9.5 7.2 91 48 A
Broadens the new Mini’s rear-seat access, practicality and appeal, and $34,590 L4 2.4 124 220 C 1465 9.5 7.2 91 48 F
still a hoot to punt around. 1.5L three-pot turbo is stirringly strong
THE PICK: Cooper with choice options (including adaptive dampers) $37,190 L4 2.4 124 220 C 1525 9.5 7.2 91 48 A
$32,000 L3T 1.5 100 220 M6 1145 8.2 5.5 95 48 F $40,690 L4TD 2.2 110 360 A6 1620 9.5 6.2 D 50 A
$34,500 L3T 1.5 100 220 D7 1175 9.1 5.4 95 48 03/16 F $43,690 L4 2.4 124 220 C 1525 9.5 7.2 91 51 A
$42,450 L4T 2.0 141 280 M6 1220 6.9 6.4 95 50 F $47,190 L4TD 2.2 110 360 A6 1620 9.5 6.2 D 51 A
$45,250 L4T 2.0 141 280 D7 1240 6.8 5.6 95 50 07/20 F $47,390 L4H 2.4 94 199 C 1880 10.5 1.9 91 – A
Cooper Convertible $52,490 L4H 2.4 94 199 C 1880 10.5 1.9 91 – A
Karty handling equals instant gratification. Charming triple and $56,390 L4H 2.4 94 199 C 1880 10.5 1.9 91 – A
easy-to-use fabric top make Cooper cab a summer fun machine
THE PICK: Big price to pay for decapitation compared to regular hatch Pajero Sport
$41,900 L3T 1.5 100 220 D7 1230 8.7 5.6 95 63 F Rugged, capable and now facelifted, with a squarer-jawed face,
updated cabin, revised engine and improved safety
$49,200 L4T 2.0 141 280 D7 1295 7.1 5.7 95 64 F THE PICK: Tough GLS the best value given its spec, or go Big Pajero
$58,900 L4T 2.0 170 320 A8 1435 6.5 6.3 95 51 F $46,990 L4TD 2.4 133 430 A8 2045 10.0 8.0 D 52 A
Clubman $51,490 L4TD 2.4 133 430 A8 2065 10.0 8.0 D 53 A
Quirky style cloaks a practical package (due to BMW X1 wheelbase) $57,190 L4TD 2.4 133 430 A8 2110 10.0 8.0 D 53 03/16 A
with lively turbos and jaunty demeanour. New variants trickling in
THE PICK: Any. This is our favourite of the Mini bodystyles by far Pajero
$45,900 L4T 2.0 141 280 M6 1360 7.2 7.1 98 53 F A proper off-roader that’s also a capable, very roomy family car, but is
ancient inside. The last remnant of Mitsubishi’s revered past
$45,900 L4T 2.0 141 280 D7 1390 7.3 6.2 98 53 F THE PICK: Haggle hard as she’s about to disappear forever
$57,900 L4T 2.0 225 450 A8 1475 4.9 7.7 98 53 A $54,490 L4TD 3.2 141 441 A5 2302 10.5 9.1 D 51 A
$62,900 L4T 2.0 225 450 A8 1490 4.9 7.7 98 53 A $59,990 L4TD 3.2 141 441 A5 2319 10.5 9.1 D 51 A
Countryman Triton
Maintains the regular Mini’s lively, fun nature in a versatile SUV-ish New styling and added safety are welcome, but the old chassis and
package, with a useful Hybrid and rapid JCW variants adding texture workmanlike 2.4L diesel remain unchanged. Keen pricing a real plus
THE PICK: Four-pot turbos for disappointment-avoiding performance THE PICK: GLX ADAS upwards balances value with spec well
$44,500 L3T 1.5 100 220 D7 1390 9.7 6.3 95 - F $37,490 L4TD 2.4 133 430 M6 1950 10.0 7.9 D 47 A
$52,900 L4T 2.0 141 280 D7 1460 7.5 6.7 95 - F $39,990 L4TD 2.4 133 430 A6 1955 10.0 8.6 D 47 A
$60,900 L3TH 1.5 165 385 A6 - 6.8 2.4 95 - A $38,540 L4TD 2.4 133 430 M6 1950 10.0 7.9 D 47 A
$61,915 L4T 2.0 225 450 A8 - 5.1 7.6 95 - A $41,040 L4TD 2.4 133 430 A6 1950 10.0 8.4 D 47 A
$67,818 L4T 2.0 225 450 A8 1490 5.1 7.6 95 - A $41,990 L4TD 2.4 133 430 M6 1961 10.0 7.9 D - A
$44,490 L4TD 2.4 133 430 A6 1961 10.0 8.6 D - A
Mitsubishi 5 years/100,000km $40,990 L4TD 2.4 133 430 M6 1955 10.0 7.9 D 47 A
$43,490 L4TD 2.4 133 430 A6 1955 10.0 8.6 D 47 A
Mirage $45,440 L4TD 2.4 133 430 M6 1985 10.0 7.9 D 47 A
Once-proud Mirage looks dowdy and dull and has a bouncy ride, tight $47,940 L4TD 2.4 133 430 A6 1990 10.0 8.6 D 47 A
rear seat and wheezy power. Still, it’s well equipped for the price
THE PICK: Fuhgeddaboudit. Save for a Suzuki Swift or a Kia Picanto $52,790 L4TD 2.4 133 430 A6 2045 10.0 8.6 D 47 A
$51,890 L4TD 2.4 133 430 A6 2045 10.0 8.6 D - A
$14,990 L3 1.2 57 100 M5 865 14.5 4.7 91 41 F
@wheelsaustralia 137
Data
bank
Nissan Price
Engine
type
Size
Power
Torque
Trans.
Kerb
weight
0-100
Fuel cons.
RON
Resale %
Issue
tested
Drive
Price
Engine
type
Size
Power
Torque
Trans.
Kerb
weight
0-100
Fuel cons.
RON
Resale %
Issue
tested
Drive
5 years/unlimited
Navara
Leaf Coil-sprung rear-end improved, twin-turbo engine strong, but missing
final ride and handling polish. Oz-developed Warrior a winner
THE PICK: Warrior easily the best Navara; deserves more engine
One of the most affordable EVs in the country, the Leaf makes the SL $45,700 L4TTD 2.3 140 450 M6 1937 10.0 6.5 D 53 A
most sense due to large battery and range. Gains five-star safety too SL
THE PICK: This, from a series that is now the best-selling EV in history ST $47,900 L4TTD 2.3 140 450 A7 1931 10.0 7.0 D 53 A
ST
$49,990 E 40 110 320 1R 1580 7.9 16.5 - 51 02/20 F ST-X $48,750 L4TTD 2.3 140 450 M6 1862 10.0 6.3 D 53 A
ST-X
370Z N-Trek $51,250 L4TTD 2.3 140 450 A7 1865 10.0 6.8 D 53 A
N-Trek
Little has changed in its eleventeen years – the 370Z’s still a coarse, N-Trek Warrior $53,600 L4TTD 2.3 140 450 M6 1917 10.0 6.3 D 53 A
hard, loud blast from the rear-drive-coupe past. We like it. A lot N-Trek Warrior
THE PICK: Nismo manual – the additions really enhance it $56,100 L4TTD 2.3 140 450 A7 1921 9.7 11.0 D 53 07/18 A
Allure
Allure Touring $56,800 L4TTD 2.3 140 450 M6 1917 10.0 6.3 D 53 A
GT-Line
$50,490 V6 3.7 245 363 M6 1515 5.6 10.6 95 51 R $59,300 L4TTD 2.3 140 450 A7 1921 10.0 6.8 D 53 A
Fastback
$52,990 V6 3.7 245 363 A7 1526 5.7 10.4 95 52 R Sportswagon $63,490 L4TTD 2.3 140 450 M6 2180 10.0 6.3 D - A
Roadster $61,490 V6 3.7 245 363 M6 1570 5.7 11.2 95 64 01/10 R Allure $65,990 L4TTD 2.3 140 450 A7 2186 10.0 6.8 D - 02/20 A
Roadster GT Sport
Nismo $63,990 V6 3.7 245 363 A7 1582 5.7 10.9 95 64 R
Nismo Active
$61,990 V6 3.7 253 371 M6 1528 5.3 10.6 95 51 R GT-Line Peugeot 5 years/unlimited
Premium GT
Premium Luxury $64,490 V6 3.7 253 371 A7 1538 5.3 10.4 95 52 R
Track Edition GT-Line
Nismo GT-R GT 308
ST Older than Nikki Webster but twin-turbo V6 coupe with rear-biased AWD Cayman Overlooked, underrated and manual-only GTi has been cut from the
ST+ still delivers supercar pace and unique attitude for Boxster GTS bucks Cayman range, along with the GT, Active and Allure HDi diesel, which is sad
ST-L THE PICK: Not the Nismo Boxster THE PICK: Turbo triple is a sweetie and only option; GT-Line for spec
TI Boxster
$193,800 V6TT 3.8 419 632 D6 1765 3.2 11.7 98 55 A Cayman S $30,499 L3T 1.2 96 230 A6 1122 10.2 5.0 95 50 F
ST Cayman S
ST $199,800 V6TT 3.8 419 632 D6 1765 3.2 11.7 98 55 A Boxster S $32,499 L3T 1.2 96 230 A6 1173 10.2 5.0 95 50 F
ST+ Boxster S
ST-L $235,000 V6TT 3.8 419 632 D6 1760 3.2 11.7 98 55 A Cayman GTS $34,990 L3T 1.2 96 230 A6 1122 10.2 5.0 95 50 F
Ti Cayman GTS
$378,000 V6TT 3.8 441 652 D6 1706 2.7 11.7 98 53 A Cayman GTS 4.0 508
ST Boxster GTS
ST Juke Boxster GTS French range-topper heralds a return to the practical, enjoyable and
ST 7-seat Boxster GTS 4.0 stylish French mid-sizer. Two bodies share same spec level
ST 4WD With a downsized engine and toned-down styling, has this more mature Spyder THE PICK: Fastback is stylish, but you’ll really stand out with the wagon
TS 4WD Cayman GT4
TS Juke lost its attitude? It’s undoubtedly a better but blander thing $57,490 L4T 1.6 165 300 A8 1430 7.7 8.9 95 58 02/20 F
ST-L THE PICK: All are mechanically identical, ST-L expected to be top seller Carrera
ST-L 7-seat
ST-L 4WD $27,990 L3T 1.0 84 180 D7 1251 11.8 5.8 95 49 F $59,490 L4T 1.6 165 300 A8 1470 8.2 6.3 95 58 02/20 F
Ti 4WD
TL 4WD $30,740 L3T 1.0 84 180 D7 1251 11.8 5.8 95 49 F 2008
ST 2WD $33,940 L3T 1.0 84 180 D7 1274 11.8 5.8 95 49 F A larger, more mature car than the old 2008, blending class-leading
ST 4WD design, packaging and technology with character
ST Hybrid 2WD $36,440 L3T 1.0 84 180 D7 1274 11.8 5.8 95 49 08/20 F THE PICK: Allure for its plusher ride and still-abundant torque
ST+ 2WD
ST+ 4WD Qashqai $34,990 L3T 1.2 96 230 A6 1247 9.3 6.5 95 - F
ST-L 2WD
ST-L 4WD Practical and sharp-priced package, which has just seen a minor $43,990 L3T 1.2 114 240 A8 1287 8.7 6.1 95 - F
ST-L Hybrid 4WD update. Firm ride and lacks grunt, but fine for undemanding users
Ti 2WD THE PICK: ST is all the Qashqai you’ll ever need 3008
Ti 4WD
Ti Hybrid 4WD $28,290 L4 2.0 106 200 M6 1343 9.9 7.7 91 50 F Built on excellent 308 underpinnings, this is a proper SUV and a Gallic
alternative to more common CX-5 fare. Plenty of cabin flair too
Ti $30,290 L4 2.0 106 200 C 1375 10.5 8.6 91 50 01/20 F THE PICK: Finish can embarrass posh Germans. Go petrol power.
Ti-L
$32,290 L4 2.0 106 200 C 1384 10.1 6.9 91 50 F $43,990 L4T 1.6 121 240 A6 1371 9.3 9.2 95 48 09/18 F
$34,300 L4 2.0 106 200 C 1392 10.1 6.9 91 50 F $47,990 L4T 1.6 121 240 A6 1371 9.9 7.0 95 49 13/17 F
$38,790 L4 2.0 106 200 C 1429 11.0 11.1 91 54 09/18 F $54,990 L4TD 2.0 133 400 A8 1433 8.9 5.0 D 49 F
X-Trail 5008
It’s not the best SUV out there, but it’s reliable and Japanese, with Brings French style and joie de drive to the mid-size SUV. Far better
than previous gen, but 1.6T works hard loaded, and ride still a bit firm
seven-seat availability, handsome styling and keen pricing THE PICK: GT-Line is the best value
THE PICK: The less you spend the better, as ST represents good value
$30,040 L4 2.0 106 200 M6 1464 8.0 8.2 91 48 F $51,990 L4T 1.6 121 240 A6 1473 10.0 7.0 95 53 04/18 F
$32,040 L4 2.5 126 226 C 1497 8.0 7.9 91 48 F $58,990 L4TD 2.0 133 400 A8 1575 9.5 7.7 D 54 09/18 F
$33,640 L4 2.5 126 226 C 1547 8.0 8.1 91 52 F
$34,040 L4 2.5 126 226 C 1553 8.0 8.3 91 48 A
$36,840 L4TD 2.0 130 380 C 1656 8.0 6.0 D 52 A Porsche 3 years/unlimited
$35,990 L4TD 2.0 130 380 C 1706 8.0 6.1 D 52 F
$37,850 L4 2.5 126 226 C 1532 8.0 7.9 91 52 F 718
$39,450 L4 2.5 126 226 C 1573 8.0 8.1 91 52 07/19 F Stuttgart goes back to nature, shoehorning flat-six atmo donks back
into its mid-engined Boxster and Cayman halo models. Brilliant
$39,850 L4 2.5 126 226 C 1588 8.0 8.3 91 52 A THE PICK: GTS models with atmo six are epic - and now with PDK ‘box
$45,490 L4 2.5 126 226 C 1601 8.0 8.3 91 47 A $113,100 F4T 2.0 220 380 M6 1335 5.1 7.4 98 61 R
$48,490 L4TD 2.0 130 380 C 1706 8.0 6.1 D 47 A $115,542 F4T 2.0 220 380 D7 1365 4.7 10.4 98 61 08/19 R
Pathfinder $115,900 F4T 2.0 220 380 M6 1335 5.1 7.4 98 61 R
US-made mid-sizer delivers space, V6 grunt and go-most-places $118,342 F4T 2.0 220 380 D7 1365 4.9 6.9 98 61 R
ability, but is a bit ponderous and unrewarding for keener drivers
THE PICK: Not terrible, but most rivals (like Mazda CX-9) outshine it $135,500 F4T 2.5 257 420 M6 1355 4.6 8.1 98 61 R
$44,240 V6 3.5 202 340 C 1970 9.0 9.9 91 54 F $140,590 F4T 2.5 257 420 D7 1385 4.3 10.6 98 61 05/17 R
$47,740 V6 3.5 202 340 C 2034 9.0 10.1 91 55 A $138,300 F4T 2.5 257 420 M6 1355 4.6 8.1 98 61 R
$47,240 L4SH 2.5 188 330 C 2151 9.0 8.6 91 54 F $143,390 F4T 2.5 257 420 D7 1385 4.4 7.3 98 61 06/16 R
$45,340 V6 3.5 202 340 C 1970 9.0 9.9 91 56 F $173,800 F4T 2.5 269 420 M6 1375 4.6 9.0 98 61 R
$48,840 V6 3.5 202 340 C 2034 9.0 10.1 91 56 A $179,790 F4T 2.5 269 420 D7 1405 4.3 8.2 98 61 R
$55,640 V6 3.5 202 340 C 2012 9.0 9.9 91 56 F $172,000 F6 4.0 294 420 M6 1405 4.5 10.8 98 - 04/20 R
$59,140 V6 3.5 202 340 C 2075 9.0 10.1 91 56 A $176,600 F4T 2.5 269 420 M6 1375 4.6 9.0 98 61 R
$62,140 L4SH 2.5 188 330 C 2176 9.0 8.7 91 56 A $182,590 F4T 2.5 269 430 D7 1405 4.3 8.2 98 61 R
$63,640 V6 3.5 202 340 C 2055 9.0 9.9 91 56 09/15 F $174,800 F6 4.0 294 420 M6 1405 4.5 10.8 98 - 04/20 R
$67,140 V6 3.5 202 340 C 2119 9.0 10.1 91 57 A $196,800 F6 4.0 309 420 M6 1420 4.4 10.9 98 67 04/20 R
$70,140 L4SH 2.5 188 330 C 2219 9.0 8.7 91 57 A $206,600 F6 4.0 309 420 M6 1420 4.4 10.9 98 67 06/20 R
Patrol 911
Powerhouse engine now gets handsome looks to match the grunt. 992 generation is a triumph. Base Carrera all the sports car anyone
really needs, though S and sledgehammer Turbo are all-time
Remains a great choice for outback tourers and heavy towers THE PICK: No manuals anymore, sadly. Carrera S is the sweet spot
THE PICK: Cheaper model leaves more cash for fuel. You’ll need it
$77,760 V8 5.6 298 560 A7 2815 8.5 14.4 95 - A $236,300 F6TT 3.0 283 450 D8 1505 4.2 9.6 98 57 06/20 R
$92,790 V8 5.6 298 560 A7 2850 8.5 14.4 95 - A
138 whichcar.com.au/wheels
NISSAN – SKODA
YOUR COMPLETE NEW CAR BUYER’S GUIDE
WHAT IT ALL MEANS
PRICE Recommended retail figure at time of publication (asterisk indicates driveaway price)
ENGINE TYPE L, in-line; V, vee; F, flat. Number of cylinders. T, turbo; S, supercharged; D, diesel;
H, hybrid; E, electric SIZE Litres or kWh POWER kW TORQUE Nm TRANSMISSION M, manual; A,
auto; D, dual-clutch; C, CVT WEIGHT Kerb, kg 0-100 km/h, acceleration in seconds (Wheels as-tested
figures in italics) FUEL CONS Consumption in litres, or kWh, per 100km RON Octane of fuel required,
as numbered, or D for diesel RESALE percent, 3-year resale in Glass’s ISSUE TESTED month/year
DRIVE A, all-wheel; F, front; R, rear. Any figure in bold is our own estimate.
Price
Engine
type
Size
Power
Torque
Trans.
Kerb
weight
0-100
Fuel cons.
RON
Resale %
Issue
tested
Drive
Price
Engine
type
Size
Power
Torque
Trans.
Kerb
weight
0-100
Fuel cons.
RON
Resale %
Issue
tested
Drive
Carrera Cabriolet $258,200 F6TT 3.0 283 450 D8 1575 4.4 9.6 98 57 R
Carrera 4 $253,500 F6TT 3.0 283 450 D8 1555 4.2 9.5 98 57 A
Carrera 4 Cabriolet $275,400 F6TT 3.0 283 450 D8 1625 4.4 9.6 98 57 A
Carrera S $274,600 F6TT 3.0 331 530 D8 1515 3.7 8.9 98 57 02/20 R
Carrera S Cabriolet $296,500 F6TT 3.0 331 530 D8 1585 3.9 9.6 98 57 R
Carrera 4S $291,800 F6TT 3.0 331 530 D8 1565 3.4 12.7 98 57 08/19 A Zen $32,990 L4T 1.3 117 260 D7 1362 9.6 6.3 95 - F
Intens
Carrera 4S Cabriolet $313,700 F6TT 3.0 331 530 D8 1635 3.8 9.6 98 57 A $37,990 L4T 1.3 117 260 D7 1362 9.6 6.3 95 - F
Life
Turbo S $473,500 F6TT 3.8 478 800 D8 1640 2.7 11.1 98 67 07/20 A Zen Koleos
Intens
Turbo S Cabriolet $494,500 F6TT 3.8 478 800 D8 1710 2.8 11.3 98 67 A Intens Space and appeal on face value, but there’s little dynamic depth or
polish here, or French charm. Does score a 7-year warranty, though
Panamera THE PICK: Very un-Renault feel, so go for better Kadjar instead
Big, clever and stunningly adept. Pornographically extruded Sport $32,990 L4 2.5 126 226 C 1552 9.4 8.1 91 50 F
Turismo is brash but curiously covetable; twin-turbo V8s astonishing.
THE PICK: Any of them, but prepare yourself for the options list $36,490 L4 2.5 126 226 C 1611 9.5 8.1 91 51 F
$199,500 V6T 3.0 243 500 D8 1860 5.6 - 98 57 R $42,990 L4 2.5 126 226 C 1608 9.8 8.3 91 52 F
4 $209,700 V6T 3.0 243 500 D8 1900 5.3 - 98 57 A $45,490 L4 2.5 126 226 C 1608- 9.8 8.3 91 52 A
4 Sport Turismo $217,000 V6T 3.0 243 500 D8 1930 5.3 - 98 57 A
4 Executive $219,200 V6T 3.0 243 500 D8 2005 5.4 - 98 57 A Rolls-Royce 4 years/unlimited
4S E-Hybrid $292,300 V6TH 2.9 412 750 D8 2225 3.7 - 98 57 A
GTS $309,500 V8TT 4.0 353 620 D8 2020 3.9 - 98 57 A Wraith
GTS Sport Turismo $316,800 V8TT 4.0 353 620 D8 2040 3.9 - 98 57 A Effortless power, presence and rarity, but massive dimensions and
2.4-tonne weight take the edge off dynamic credentials
Turbo S $409,500 V8TT 4.0 463 820 D8 2080 3.1 - 98 57 A THE PICK: The regular with a few bespoke ‘individualisms’ should do it
Macan $635,000 V12TT 6.6 465 820 A8 2440 4.6 14.3 95 - R
Hot hatch meets SUV. Macan remains the class benchmark for Black Badge $735,000 V12TT 6.6 465 870 A8 2440 4.5 - 95 - R
dynamics, but interior is still cramped compared to rivals Black Badge
THE PICK: GTS almost as quick as Turbo, is sharper through corners Black Badge Dawn
EWB
$84,300 L4T 2.0 185 370 D7 1795 6.7 8.9 95 63 A Feels like an actual land yacht, but less likely to sink. Vision challenging
with roof up, so just drive it on sunny days. A majestic land cruiser
S $100,800 V6T 3.0 260 480 D7 1865 5.3 8.9 98 63 A THE PICK: Our second-favourite type of dawn service
Macan GTS $112,300 V6TT 2.9 280 520 D7 1910 4.7 9.6 98 - 03/20 A $710,000 V12TT 6.6 420 820 A8 2560 4.9 14.2 95 - R
Turbo $145,200 V6TT 2.9 324 550 D7 1945 4.5 9.8 98 63 07/20 A $802,000 V12TT 6.6 442 840 A8 2560 4.9 14.2 95 - R
Cayenne Cullinan
The reason why Porsche is now an SUV company with a sideline in Luxury has reached a new level. May seem expensive, but it’s cheaper
sports cars. Brilliantly executed, but no seven-seat option than a helicopter. But whatever you do, just don’t call it an SUV
THE PICK: E-Hybrid is decent value given its tech (and performance) THE PICK: The one with the darkest possible window tinting
$121,300 V6T 3.0 250 450 A8 1985 6.2 9.0 95 63 A $659,000 V12TT 6.7 420 850 A8 2660 5.2 15.0 95 - A
Coupe $133,700 V6T 3.0 250 450 A8 2030 6.0 9.9 98 - A $754,000 V12TT 6.7 441 900 A8 2660 5.1 15.0 95 - A
E-Hybrid $141,200 V6TH 3.0 340 700 A8 2295 5.0 3.4 95 63 07/19 A Phantom
S $161,500 V6TT 2.9 324 550 A8 2020 5.2 9.2 95 63 A Go on, have some artworks installed in the dash, indulge yourself.
You’ve obviously got too much money. Twin-turbo V12 a highlight
S Coupe $172,500 V6TT 2.9 324 550 A8 2050 5.0 10.0 98 - A THE PICK: Eww... don’t even get caught dead in the boggo model
Turbo $246,000 V8TT 4.0 404 770 A8 2175 4.1 11.7 95 63 A
Turbo Coupe $259,000 V8TT 4.0 404 770 A8 2200 3.9 12.3 98 - 02/20 A $902,000 V12TT 6.7 420 900 A8 2560 5.3 13.9 95 - R
Turbo S E-Hybrid $292,200 V8TTH 4.0 500 900 A8 2565 4.0 3.8 98 - A $1,045,000 V12TT 6.7 420 900 A8 2610 5.4 13.9 95 - R
Turbo S E-Hybrid Coupe $297,900 V8TTH 4.0 500 900 A8 2535 3.8 4.4 98 - A
Skoda 5 years/unlimited
Ram 3 years/100,000km
Fabia
1500 Packed with personality, practicality too if you’re wise enough to
choose a wagon, but feels outclassed by newer-gen VW Polo
Rides the middle ground between the regular dual-cab and oversized THE PICK: 81TSI wagon a unique and likeable proposition
2500 models. Variants split by final-drive ratios
THE PICK: Depends what your towing needs are, we guess 70TSI $17,490 L3T 1.0 70 160 M5 1043 10.6 4.5 95 46 F
70TSI wagon
Express $89,950 V8 5.7 291 556 A8 2620 - 9.9 95 58 A 81TSI $18,990 L3T 1.0 70 160 M5 1107 10.8 4.5 95 46 F
Warlock 81TSI wagon
Laramie Ecodiesel $104,450 V8 5.7 291 556 A8 2630 - 12.2 95 58 A 81TSI Monte Carlo $20,490 L3T 1.0 81 200 D7 1097 9.8 4.7 95 47 F
Laramie 81TSI Monte Carlo wgn
$109,950 V6 3.0 179 420 A8 2715 - 11.9 D 58 A $21,990 L3T 1.0 81 200 D7 1161 9.9 4.7 95 47 F
110TSI
$99,950 V8 5.7 291 556 A8 2650 6.8 14.5 95 58 08/20 A 110TSI $25,990 L3T 1.0 81 200 D7 1097 10.5 4.7 95 48 05/18 F
Monte Carlo
2500 Launch Edition $27,490 L3T 1.0 81 200 D7 1087 9.4 4.7 95 48 F
Torque, weight and towing ability are mind-boggling. Makes the Hilux 110TSI sedan Scala
and Ranger look and feel like kids’ toys. We miss out on next-gen model 110TSI sedan
THE PICK: The biggest caravan/boat/horse float you can throw at it 110TSI wagon A larger and better equipped Golf alternative, for roughly the same
110TSI Sport spend. Drives well and standard spec is impressive.
$139,950 L6TD 6.7 276 1084 A6 3577 - 15.0 D - A 110TSI Sport wagon THE PICK: Monte Carlo for keen drivers, otherwise 110TSI auto
RS245 wagon
$26,990 L4T 1.5 110 250 M6 1190 8.6 5.0 98 - F
162TSI
Renault 5 years/unlimited $28,990 L4T 1.5 110 250 D7 1190 8.2 5.0 98 - 08/20 F
$33,990 L4T 1.5 110 250 D7 1190 8.2 5.0 98 - F
$35,990 L4T 1.5 110 250 D7 1190 8.2 5.0 98 - F
Megane Octavia
Was one of our favourite hot hatches, though this isn’t a vintage Enormous luggage capacity, eager and efficient engines and value
generation. Cabin finish and refinement could step up for money make you wonder why you’d choose VW. Oh. Resale
THE PICK: Sport chassis tune with paddles the pick of the bunch THE PICK: RS gains IRS, is quieter as well as more dynamic for it
RS 280 Sport $45,990 L4T 1.8 205 390 M6 1427 5.8 7.4 98 52 F $24,890 L4T 1.4 110 250 M6 1219 8.1 5.4 98 42 05/19 F
RS 280 Sport
RS 280 Cup $50,990 L4T 1.8 205 390 D6 1450 5.8 7.5 98 53 F $27,390 L4T 1.4 110 250 D7 1234 8.1 6.4 98 43 F
RS 280 Cup
RS Trophy-R $48,990 L4T 1.8 205 390 M6 1427 5.8 7.4 98 52 F $29,490 L4T 1.4 110 250 D7 1266 8.2 6.4 98 44 F
Life $52,490 L4T 1.8 205 390 D6 1450 5.8 7.5 98 53 F $32,290 L4T 1.4 110 250 D7 1234 8.3 6.4 98 44 F
$74,625 L4T 1.8 221 400 M6 1306 5.4 8.0 98 - F $34,390 L4T 1.4 110 250 D7 1266 8.3 6.4 98 44 F
Kadjar $49,090 L4T 2.0 180 370 D7 1462 6.6 6.4 98 46 F
Nissan Qashqai-based Spaniard builds on that with fizzy Benz-shared Superb
power, strong spec, comfy (if noisy) cabin and sharp pricing. Decent
THE PICK: Lacks flair and joy of Pug 3008 but costs way less Not quite as poised as a Passat but has more personality, impressive
space and quality feel. Range-topping Sportline rejoins the lineup
$29,990 L4T 1.3 117 260 D7 1362 9.6 6.3 95 - F THE PICK: Spend the least amount to justify this over superior Passat
$40,690 L4T 2.0 162 350 D6 1463 6.6 6.4 95 39 09/16 F
@wheelsaustralia 139
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162TSI wagon $42,390 L4T 2.0 162 350 D6 1490 7.1 6.4 95 39 F 2.0i-L sedan $25,860 F4 2.0 115 196 C 1383 10.1 6.6 91 54 A
2.0i-L hatch
206TSI Sportline $60,390 L4T 2.0 206 350 D7 1600 5.7 7.3 95 - A 2.0i Premium sedan $26,060 F4 2.0 115 196 C 1373 10.1 6.6 91 54 A
2.0i Premium hatch
206TSI Sportline wagon $61,990 L4T 2.0 206 350 D7 1600 5.7 7.3 95 - A 2.0i-S sedan $28,390 F4 2.0 115 196 C 1383 10.1 6.6 91 54 A
2.0i-S hatch
200TSI Scout Wagon $62,090 L4T 2.0 200 350 D7 1667 5.7 7.1 95 - A $28,590 F4 2.0 115 196 C 1373 10.1 6.6 91 54 A
2.0i
Kamiq 2.0i-L $31,160 F4 2.0 115 196 C 1393 10.1 7.2 91 54 A
2.0i Premium
Skoda’s smallest SUV is a rival for the Mazda CX-3 and Toyota C-HR. Is 2.0i-S $31,360 F4 2.0 115 196 C 1398 10.1 7.2 91 54 A
well equipped with adaptive cruise, 18s and digital instruments Hybrid L
THE PICK: Monte Carlo for keen drivers; auto 85TSI for everyone else Hybrid S XV
85TSI $26,990 L3T 1.0 85 200 M6 1191 9.9 5.1 95 - F Premium Tweaked suspension, sharper styling and a more sensible model
Premium line-up improve the XV’s all-round appeal for 2021
85TSI $27,990 L3T 1.0 85 200 D7 1211 10.0 5.0 95 - F STi THE PICK: The Hybrid makes sense for inner-city living; otherwise a 2.0i-L
STi Premium
110TSI Monte Carlo $34,190 L4T 1.5 110 250 D7 1237 8.4 5.6 95 - F STI spec. R $29,690 F4 2.0 115 196 C 1422 7.0 91 - A
Karoq 2.5i $31,990 F4 2.0 115 196 C 1434 9.7 7.0 91 - 09/19 A
2.5i Premium
Less quirky-cool than the Yeti it replaces, the Karoq still tempts on Final Edition $34,590 F4 2.0 115 196 C 1434 7.0 91 - A
price and has plenty of handy features, space and efficiency on its side 3.6R Premium
THE PICK: Top-spec 140TSI gains VW’s grunty EA888 engine $37,290 F4 2.0 115 196 C 1444 7.0 91 - A
110TSI $32,990 L4T 1.5 110 250 D7 1318 9.0 8.7 95 46 12/19 F $35,490 F4H 2.0 110 n/a C 1536 10.7 6.5 91 - A
140TSI Sportline $39,990 L4T 2.0 140 320 D7 1600 7.0 6.9 95 - A $40,790 F4H 2.0 110 n/a C 1536 10.7 6.5 91 - A
Kodiaq WRX
Skoda wins the space race again, with plenty of comfort, as well as Iconic Rex brings pace, traction, handling, practicality and value as
surprise and delightful features, but value equation appeals the most ever, but it’s a bit rough round the edges compared with Euro rivals
THE PICK: Best Skoda on sale in Australia. We like the petrol Sportline THE PICK: Base WRX still represents outstanding-value engineering
132TSI 4x4 $44,890 L4T 2.0 132 320 D7 1677 8.8 7.6 95 54 A $40,490 F4T 2.0 197 350 M6 1469 6.0 9.2 95 55 A
132TSI 4x4 Sportline $48,890 L4T 2.0 132 320 D7 1677 8.2 7.6 95 54 A $43,490 F4T 2.0 197 350 C 1527 6.3 8.6 95 55 08/14 A
RS $65,990 L4TTD 2.0 176 500 D7 1858 6.9 6.2 D - A $46,890 F4T 2.0 197 350 M6 1504 6.0 9.2 95 55 04/18 A
$50,090 F4T 2.0 197 350 C 1562 6.3 8.6 95 55 A
SsangYong 7 years/unlimited $52,140 F4T 2.5 221 407 M6 1525 4.9 10.4 98 66 04/18 A
$56,890 F4T 2.5 221 407 M6 1537 5.3 10.4 98 67 09/14 A
$58,940 F4T 2.5 221 407 M6 1537 4.9 10.4 98 67 A
Tivoli Liberty
Plenty of SUV for the cash, but needs more polish. Series II facelift Sensible Subie looks and feels classy and is a solid drive, but it falls
promises improvements when it arrives down under short of the nameplate’s historical dynamic appeal and refinement
THE PICK: Stretch to the newer Korando. Or a Kia Seltos THE PICK: Soon to die, so we’d wait for coming Outback redesign
EX $23,490* L4T 1.6 94 160 M6 1230 - 7.2 91 51 F $31,440 F4 2.5 129 235 C 1542 9.6 7.3 91 55 03/15 A
EX
ELX $25,490* L4T 1.6 94 160 A6 1300 - 7.2 91 51 F $37,940 F4 2.5 129 235 C 1568 9.2 7.3 91 57 09/16 A
ELX
Ultimate $27,490* L4T 1.6 94 160 M6 1300 - 7.2 91 51 F $39,930 F4 2.5 129 235 C 1537 9.6 7.3 91 - A
XLV ELX
XLV Ultimate $29,990* L4TD 1.6 85 300 A6 1390 - 5.5 D 51 F $44,440 F6 3.6 191 350 C 1645 7.3 9.9 91 57 02/15 A
EX $33,990* L4TD 1.6 85 300 A6 1480 - 5.5 D 51 A
EX
ELX $31,990* L4TD 1.6 85 300 A6 - - 5.5 D 51 A OUTBACK
ELX
Ultimate $34,990* L4TD 1.6 85 300 A6 - - 5.5 D 51 A Wagon buries its Liberty sedan twin for good
Ultimate
Korando
EX
ELX It’s often overlooked, but the Korando deserves more attention with The all-new Outback rides on Subaru’s new global architecture that underpins Impreza
Ultimate advances in design, safety and quality. Now with added petrol power and XV. It’s larger, safer, smarter and better. Australia gets a single drivetrain at launch – a
THE PICK: The new 1.5-litre petrol is worth a look if value is a priority 90-percent-new 2.5-litre flat four with a heavily revised CVT – though the turbo version
EX offered in the US is ‘under discussion’. Mid-spec Sport boasts blacked-out styling bits.
EX $26,990* L4T 1.5 120 280 M6 1430 - 7.0 95 48 F
ELX
Ultimate $28,990* L4T 1.5 120 280 A6 1435 - 7.7 95 48 F
ELX XLV
ELX XLV $30,990* L4T 1.5 120 280 A6 1435 - 7.7 95 48 F $39,990 F4 2.5 138 245 C TBC – TBC 91 A
Ultimate XLV
Ultimate Plus XLV $33,990* L4TD 1.6 100 324 A6 1515 - 5.5 D 52 F Sport $44,490 F4 2.5 138 245 C TBC – TBC 91 A
Touring
$36,990* L4T 1.5 120 280 A6 1435 - 7.7 95 50 F $47,790 F4 2.5 138 245 C TBC – TBC 91 A
1.6 GT
$39,990* L4TD 1.6 100 324 A6 1515 - 5.5 D 59 F 1.6 GT Premium Levorg
2.0 GT-S
Rexton 2.0 STI Sport Levorg seems to have it all – sharp price (in low grades), practical
wagon body and turbo-boxer pace. But CVT and dull dynamics
Surprisingly competent take on the 4x4 wagon. Handsome interior, Premium THE PICK: Previous Impreza wagon in disguise, so go sub-WRX GT-S
inoffensive exterior and keen pricing means they should shift a few Premium
THE PICK: Enjoy the effortless torque of the diesel tS $37,240 F4T 1.6 125 250 C 1579 8.9 7.4 95 57 A
tS
$39,990* L4T 2.0 165 350 A7 2010 - 10.4 91 53 F $44,140 F4T 1.6 125 250 C 1620 8.9 7.4 95 57 A
2.5i
$46,990* L4TD 2.2 133 420 A7 2230 - 8.3 D 53 A 2.5i-L $50,390 F4T 2.0 197 350 C 1631 6.6 8.7 95 58 A
2.5i- Premium
$52,990* L4TD 2.2 133 420 A7 2230 - 8.3 D 53 A 2.5i Sport $53,240 F4T 2.0 197 350 C 1631 6.6 8.7 95 58 A
2.5i-S
Musso Hybrid L AWD BRZ
Hybrid S AWD
For those wanting 1262 litres of cargo space on a budget, look no Toyota 86 co-development boasts the same slick steering, fine RWD
further than XLV variants that add 310mm of length to the tray balance and powertrain, but with a dab less oversteer, more exclusivity
THE PICK: XLV for size, but a near-new Japanese ute a better bet THE PICK: tS for the upgrades, base for value, Premium if undecided
$30,490 L4TD 2.2 133 420 M6 - 10.0 8.2 D 46 A $35,270 F4 2.0 147 205 M6 1282 7.8 9.0 95 50 05/17 R
$32,490 L4TD 2.2 133 420 A6 - 10.0 8.9 D 46 A $36,780 F4 2.0 147 205 A6 1304 8.2 7.1 95 51 R
$35,990 L4TD 2.2 133 420 A6 - 10.0 8.9 D 46 A $37,290 F4 2.0 147 205 M6 1282 7.6 7.8 95 51 R
$39,990 L4TD 2.2 133 420 A6 - 10.0 8.9 D 46 A $38,780 F4 2.0 147 205 A6 1304 8.2 7.1 95 51 R
$33,990* L4TD 2.2 133 420 M6 - 10.0 8.2 D 46 A $41,190 F4 2.0 147 205 M6 1295 7.6 7.8 95 51 R
$35,990* L4TD 2.2 133 420 A6 - 10.0 8.9 D 46 A $43,190 F4 2.0 147 205 A6 1317 8.2 7.1 95 51 R
$39,990* L4TD 2.2 133 420 A6 - 10.0 8.9 D 46 A Forester
$43,990* L4TD 2.2 133 420 A6 - 10.0 8.9 D 46 A Space, refinement, value, practicality and driver appeal, with decent
flat-four and CVT combo. Hybrid system is disappointing – avoid
THE PICK: 2.5i incredibly complete and one of the best buys out there
Subaru 5 years/unlimited $34,690 F4 2.5 136 239 C 1563 9.1 7.4 91 55 A
$36,940 F4 2.5 136 239 C 1565 9.1 7.4 91 55 A
Impreza $39,940 F4 2.5 136 239 C 1586 9.1 7.4 91 55 A
Interior, refinement, ride and handling all polished, but the flat-four is $41,990 F4 2.5 136 239 C 1575 9.1 7.4 91 55 A
light-on for grunt and base 2.0i misses out on safety kit. Nearly there
THE PICK: Not the base. Subaru, please give Impreza more grunt! $42,990 F4 2.5 136 239 C 1617 9.2 10.1 91 55 06/19 A
$39,990 F4H 2.0 110 196 C 1603 10.1 6.7 95 - 05/20 A
2.0i sedan $23,740 F4 2.0 115 196 C 1360 10.1 6.6 91 54 A $45,990 F4H 2.0 110 196 C 1632 10.1 6.7 95 - A
2.0i hatch
$23,940 F4 2.0 115 196 C 1359 10.1 6.6 91 54 A
140 whichcar.com.au/wheels
Suzuki 5 years/unlimited SKODA – TOYOTA
YOUR COMPLETE NEW CAR BUYER’S GUIDE
WHAT IT ALL MEANS
PRICE Recommended retail figure at time of publication (asterisk indicates driveaway price)
ENGINE TYPE L, in-line; V, vee; F, flat. Number of cylinders. T, turbo; S, supercharged; D, diesel;
H, hybrid; E, electric SIZE Litres or kWh POWER kW TORQUE Nm TRANSMISSION M, manual; A,
auto; D, dual-clutch; C, CVT WEIGHT Kerb, kg 0-100 km/h, acceleration in seconds (Wheels as-tested
figures in italics) FUEL CONS Consumption in litres, or kWh, per 100km RON Octane of fuel required,
as numbered, or D for diesel RESALE percent, 3-year resale in Glass’s ISSUE TESTED month/year
DRIVE A, all-wheel; F, front; R, rear. Any figure in bold is our own estimate.
Swift Price
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Appealing and effervescent tot. interior is well equipped, if a little
chintzy. Sport well worth the added outlay. You can thank us later SX hybrid $29,020 L3H 1.5 85 120 C 1130 10.1 3.3 91 - F
THE PICK: GL manual or Sport manual – both represent great fun
GL Navigator $18,990* L4 1.2 66 120 M5 870 10.8 6.5 91 55 F ZR $30,100 L3 1.5 88 145 C 1075 - 4.9 91 - F
GL Navigator
GL Navigator Plus $19,990* L4 1.2 66 120 C 900 - 4.8 91 44 F ZR hybrid $32,100 L3H 1.5 85 120 C 1130 10.1 3.3 91 - 10//20 F
GLX Turbo
Sport $21,490* L4 1.2 66 120 C 900 - 4.8 91 47 F GR $49,500 L3T 1.6 200 370 M6 1280 5.2 - 98 - A
Sport
$25,290* L3T 1.0 82 160 A6 915 10.2 5.1 91 55 F Corolla
GL
GL $26,990 L4T 1.4 103 230 M6 970 7.6 8.1 95 55 07/20 F ’Rolla range gets 2.0-litre sedans, modest increase in outputs for its
GLX atmo hatches, plus long-awaited tech tweaks
$28,990 L4T 1.4 103 230 A6 990 - 6.1 95 55 F THE PICK: Ascent Sport hybrid’s economy worth the extra up-front
Turbo
Turbo Prestige Baleno Ascent Sport $23,835 L4 2.0 125 200 M6 1320 9.2 6.3 91 54 F
GL Doesn’t offer too much to convince us that a Swift isn’t a wiser pick. Ascent Sport sedan $23,895 L4 2.0 125 200 M6 1350 9.5 6.3 91 54 F
GL Better than you’d think, but that’s not saying much. A triumph in space
GLX THE PICK: GLX for some turbo three-pot thrills Ascent Sport $25,395 L4 2.0 125 200 C 1340 8.9 6.0 91 54 12/18 F
Turbo $15,990 L4 1.4 68 130 M5 895 - 5.1 91 45 F Ascent Sport sedan $25,395 L4 2.0 125 200 C 1390 9.2 6.0 91 54 F
Turbo AWD
$16,990 L4 1.4 68 130 A4 915 - 5.4 91 44 F Ascent Sport Hybrid $27,395 L4H 1.8 90 142 C 1360 10.0 3.5 91 49 F
Standard Plus
Long Range $18,990 L3T 1.0 82 160 A6 935 - 5.2 91 46 F Ascent Sport Hybrid sed. $27,395 L4H 1.8 90 142 C 1410 10.5 3.5 91 54 F
Performance
S-Cross SX $28,795 L4 2.0 125 200 C 1360 9.2 6.0 91 49 F
Long Range
Performance Cut-down range seems to have only delivered Australia the S-Cross SX sedan $28,795 L4 2.0 125 200 C 1285 9.5 6.4 91 54 F
cast-offs. No AWD, no manual = no interest, though turbo is a flyer
Long Range THE PICK: Easy. Go Vitara Turbo instead SX Hybrid $30,795 L4H 1.8 90 142 C 1360 10.0 3.5 91 50 F
Performance
$28,490 L4T 1.4 103 220 A6 1170 8.5 7.8 95 46 05/17 F SX Hybrid sedan $30,795 L4H 1.8 90 142 C 1410 10.5 3.5 91 50 F
Ascent Sport
Ascent Sport $29,990 L4T 1.4 103 220 A6 1170 - 5.9 95 46 F ZR $32,695 L4 2.0 125 200 C 1360 9.6 6.0 91 56 05/19 F
SX
Jimny ZR Hybrid $34,695 L4H 1.8 90 142 C 1360 10.0 3.5 91 51 F
Pint-size off-roader can’t be stopped by terrain, though you’ll risk your ZR sedan $34,195 L4 1.8 103 173 C 1410 10.5 6.4 91 50 F
sanity on prolonged highway stints. We’re talking 20th-century tech
THE PICK: Farmers, 4x4 drivers only need apply Camry
$25,990 L4 1.5 75 130 M5 1075 - 6.4 91 52 A Dynamics and looks join performance, value and dependability in a
Japanese-built Camry that’s at its best in Ascent Hybrid or SL form
$27,990 L4 1.5 75 130 A4 1090 - 6.9 91 52 A THE PICK: Avoid V6s, which are swift and smooth but nose-heavy
Ignis Ascent $28,990 L4 2.5 133 231 A6 1495 9.4 7.8 91 43 F
Delightful baby SUV marred by the lack of a 1.0-litre turbo triple. Ascent Sport $31,290 L4 2.5 135 235 A6 1560 9.6 8.3 91 44 13/17 F
Pricing is sharp; steering and handling less so.
THE PICK: GL manual. Or better yet, any Swift Ascent Hybrid $31,790 L4H 2.5 160 221 C 1635 9.4 4.2 95 44 13/17 F
$17,990 L4 1.2 66 120 M5 820 - 4.7 91 44 F Ascent Sport Hybrid $33,790 L4H 2.5 160 221 C 1635 9.6 4.2 95 44 F
$18,990 L4 1.2 66 120 C 865 - 4.7 91 45 F SX $34,590 L4 2.5 135 235 A6 1555 9.6 8.3 91 44 13/17 F
$19,990 L4 1.2 66 120 C 865 - 4.7 91 45 F SX V6 $38,590 V6 3.5 224 362 A8 1620 6.8 8.9 95 45 F
Vitara SL $41,290 L4 2.5 135 235 A6 1560 9.7 8.3 91 45 F
Well packaged, but ageing. Facelift has improved interior quality, but SL Hybrid $42,790 L4H 2.5 160 221 C 1635 9.7 4.5 95 45 08/18 F
we’d still avoid the base atmo engine if you drive over hilly terrain
THE PICK: Turbo AWD, thanks to that pearler of a blown 1.4 SL V6 $45,290 V6 3.5 224 362 A8 1630 6.8 8.7 95 46 13/17 F
$22,990 L4 1.6 86 156 M5 1075 - 5.8 91 49 02/16 F Prius Hatch
$24,990 L4 1.6 86 156 A6 1120 10.5 9.1 91 50 01/20 F No longer dull. Way better to drive, with expected frugality, surprising
cabin polish, and rear headroom compromised by aero teardrop profile
$30,490 L4T 1.4 103 220 A6 1160 - 5.9 95 50 F THE PICK: i-Tech for the added tech
$34,490 L4T 1.4 103 220 A6 1235 8.3 6.2 95 52 08/16 A $37,890 L4H 1.8 90 142 C 1375 - 3.4 91 48 07/12 F
i-Tech $45,350 L4H 1.8 90 142 C 1400 - 3.4 91 50 F
Tesla Prius V
4 years/80,000km V is all about maximum seating, minimum consumption and reliability,
not enjoyment, especially with such low outputs. Resale is very high
Model 3 THE PICK: i-Tech has more desirable gear thrown in
It took an eternity to lob, but the Model 3 is upending the EV landscape. $37,590 L4H 1.8 100 142 C 1505 - 4.4 91 55 F
Prices are getting up there, interior is scratchy but the thing handles
THE PICK: Performance is bonkers quick with sorted dynamics i-Tech $45,380 L4H 1.8 100 142 C 1570 - 4.4 91 57 F
86
$73,900 E 50 211 375 R1 1611 5.6 12.0 - 57 02/20 R Pure rear-drive dynamics, superb steering and a taste for oversteer.
Go the manual for involvement (and the full 152kW)
$91,612 E 75 307 510 R1 1847 4.6 13.2 - 57 A THE PICK: GTS manual will bring a ray of sunshine to your life
$102,012 E 75 353 639 R1 1847 3.4 18.0 - 58 02/20 A GT $32,180 F4 2.0 152 212 M6 1234 7.4 8.4 95 60 R
Model S GT $34,480 F4 2.0 147 205 A6 1257 8.2 7.1 95 60 R
Surprisingly exciting to drive, much-lauded gamechanger with GTS $37,380 F4 2.0 152 212 M6 1252 7.4 8.4 95 61 R
mega-tablet centre stack. Tesla’s charging network a major asset
THE PICK: Go for all the bells and whistles, but both feel special GTS $39,680 F4 2.0 147 205 A6 1272 8.2 7.1 95 51 R
$133,175 E 100 330 660 R1 2184 3.8 18.1 - 55 A Supra
$152,675 E 100 450 931 R1 2236 2.5 19.8 - 55 A A bit more power (+35kW) was only going to make the suave GR Supra
even better, though we still wish it had a manual trans’
Model X THE PICK: The less-shouty, smaller-wheeled GT in Nurburg Matte Grey
Falcon Wing doors an expensive gimmick, but the ungainly Model X is GT $87,126 L6T 3.0 285 500 A8 1495 4.1 7.7 95 - R
always an event. More real-world utility than you might expect
THE PICK: Nobody needs a ‘slow’ Tesla, so you should go Performance GTS $97,126 L6T 3.0 285 500 A8 1495 4.1 7.7 95 - R
$165,712 E 100 311 660 R1 2459 4.6 20.7 - 63 A Yaris Cross
$185,212 E 100 451 931 R1 2509 2.9 22.4 - 63 A Takes everything that makes the new-gen Yaris a breath of fresh air
and introduces proper space, greater value-for-money
THE PICK: The front- or all-wheel-drive Hybrid is the zeitgeist of 2021
Toyota 5 years/unlimited GX $26,990 L3 1.5 88 145 C 1140 5.4 91 - F
GX Hybrid $28,990 L3H 1.5 85 n/a C 1190 3.8 91 - F
Yaris GX Hybrid AWD $31,990 L3H 1.5 85 n/a C 1265 4.0 91 - A
Crikey. Toyota’s cheap car isn’t so cheap anymore. All-new Yaris is GXL $29,990 L3 1.5 88 145 C 1160 5.4 91 - F
safer and better to drive but are Aussies willing to pay this much?
THE PICK: Manual Ascent Sport makes most sense, but the GR is a riot GXL Hybrid $31,990 L3H 1.5 85 n/a C 1210 3.8 91 - F
$22,130 L3 1.5 88 145 M6 1050 - 5.4 91 - F GXL Hybrid AWD $34,990 L3H 1.5 85 n/a C 1285 4.0 91 - A
$23,630 L3 1.5 88 145 C 1025 - 4.9 91 - F Urban $32,990 L3 1.5 88 145 C 1185 5.4 91 - F
$27,020 L3 1.5 88 145 C 1025 - 4.9 91 - F Urban Hybrid $34,990 L3H 1.5 85 n/a C 1235 3.8 91 - F
Urban Hybrid AWD $37,990 L3H 1.5 85 n/a C 1305 4.0 91 - A
@wheelsaustralia 141
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Drive
C-HR SR5 $59,920 L4TD 2.8 150 450 A6 2075 - 7.9 D - A
SR5+
Hybrid joins the range as near-invisible facelift finally brings modern SR5+ $60,420 L4TD 2.8 150 420 M6 2075 - - D - A
multimedia. One of Toyota’s finest and still a slick, stylish class leader
THE PICK: Koba hybrid for range-topping equipment and frugality 6-seat $62,420 L4TD 2.8 150 450 A6 2075 - 7.9 D - A
8-seat
GLX $30,915 L4T 1.2 85 185 C 1385 10.3 8.4 95 52 01/20 F VX 6-seat Granvia
VX 8-seat
GLX AWD $32,915 L4T 1.2 85 185 C 1460 - 6.5 95 52 A Replacing the Tarago is a tough ask, but the Granvia does a solid job. If
you haul people en masse, this will do it with ease
Koba $35,165 L4T 1.2 85 185 C 1385 10.9 8.0 95 54 05/17 F THE PICK: Fourth row makes the cabin cramped; stick to a 6-seater
Koba AWD $37,165 L4T 1.2 85 185 C 1460 - 6.5 95 54 A $62,990 L4D 2.8 130 450 A6 2605 - 8.0 D 66 R
Koba Hybrid $37,665 L4H 1.8 90 n/a C 1420 - 4.3 91 - 03/20 F $64,990 L4D 2.8 130 450 A6 2660 - 8.0 D 66 R
GR Sport Hybrid $37,665 L4H 1.8 90 n/a C 1420 – 4.3 91 - A $74,990 L4D 2.8 130 450 A6 2605 - 8.0 D 66 R
RAV4 $74,990 L4D 2.8 130 450 A6 2660 - 8.0 D 66 R
RAV4 Mk4 switches to TNGA tech, is massively better with newfound Volkswagen 5 years/unlimited
handling, ride, refinement and value. Big space too. Even base is great
THE PICK: Cruiser Hybrid AWD offers intriguing engineering solutions
GX 2.0 FWD $32,290 L4 2.0 127 203 M6 1515 – 6.8 91 50 F
GX 2.0 FWD $34,290 L4 2.0 127 203 C 1550 9.4 8.2 91 51 02/20 F Polo
GX 2.5 FWD Hybrid $36,790 L4H 2.5 160 n/a C 1650 – 4.7 91 51 F Biggest-ever Polo scores with sweet and thrusty three-pot turbos and
superb dynamics but base is barren inside and DSG hates hills
GX 2.5 AWD Hybrid $39,790 L4H 2.5 163 n/a C 1705 – 4.8 91 51 A THE PICK: Manuals are lovelier, or stretch to the excellent GTI
GXL 2.0 FWD $37,290 L4 2.0 127 203 C 1585 – 6.5 91 52 07/19 F 70TSI Trendline $19,290 L3T 1.0 70 175 M5 1111 10.8 4.8 95 47 F
GXL 2.5 FWD Hybrid $39,790 L4H 2.5 160 n/a C 1675 – 4.7 91 52 F 70TSI Trendline $21,790 L3T 1.0 70 175 D7 1147 10.8 5.0 95 46 F
GXL 2.5 AWD Hybrid $42,790 L4H 2.5 163 n/a C 1730 8.0 4.8 91 52 A 85TSI Comfortline $20,890 L3T 1.0 85 200 M6 1116 9.5 5.1 95 47 F
Cruiser 2.0 FWD $40,790 L4 2.0 127 203 C 1620 – 6.5 91 52 F 85TSI Comfortline $23,390 L3T 1.0 85 200 D7 1152 9.5 5.0 95 46 F
Cruiser 2.5 FWD Hybrid $43,290 L4H 2.5 160 n/a C 1690 – 4.7 91 53 F Style $25,690 L3T 1.0 85 200 D7 1152 9.5 5.0 95 47 04/20 F
Cruiser 2.5 AWD Hybrid $46,290 L4H 2.5 163 n/a C 1745 8.0 8.7 91 53 02/20 A GTI $32,890 4LT 2.0 147 320 D6 1285 6.7 5.0 95 54 07/20 F
Edge 2.5 AWD $48,790 L4 2.5 152 243 A8 1705 – 7.3 91 54 02/20 A Golf
Kluger The R finally steps out of the GTI’s shadow, but the news is all good
across the range. Mk8 due to arrive in late 2020 or early 2021
Strong (if thirsty) engine, practicality, space and standard seven seats THE PICK: No losers here, but 110 Trendline especially good value
appeal. Now is time to drive a hard bargain, as new model coming
THE PICK: Not bad, but we’d wait for 2020 redesign or go Mazda CX-9 110TSI Trendline $25,390 L4T 1.4 110 250 D7 1233 9.1 5.1 95 54 F
GX $44,850 V6 3.5 218 350 A8 1980 8.1 9.1 91 54 F 110TSI Trendline $25,790 L4T 1.4 110 240 M6 1241 8.2 5.7 95 54 F
GX $48,850 V6 3.5 218 350 A8 2045 8.5 9.5 91 55 A 110 Trendline Wagon $28,890 L4T 1.4 110 250 D7 1312 9.5 5.2 95 52 F
GXL $54,950 V6 3.5 218 350 A8 1980 8.1 9.1 91 55 F 110TSI Comfortline $29,390 L4T 1.4 110 250 D7 1233 9.1 5.1 95 52 F
GXL $58,950 V6 3.5 218 350 A8 2045 8.5 9.5 91 56 A 110TSI Comfortline Wag. $30,890 L4T 1.4 110 250 D7 1312 9.5 5.2 95 52 F
Grande $65,519 V6 3.5 218 350 A8 2025 8.1 9.3 91 56 F 110TSI Highline $34,490 L4T 1.4 110 250 D7 1233 8.3 8.2 95 53 05/19 F
Grande $68,888 V6 3.5 218 350 A8 2100 8.0 8.5 91 57 12/18 A 110TSI Highline Wagon $35,990 L4T 1.4 110 250 D7 1312 9.5 5.2 95 53 F
Fortuner 132TSI Alltrack $36,190 L4T 1.8 132 280 D6 1491 7.8 6.8 95 - A
All the rugged off-roading strengths of its Hilux basis, along with the 132TSI Alltrack Premium $40,490 L4T 1.8 132 280 D6 1491 7.8 6.8 95 - A
vague steering and sluggish auto. Ride improved in recent update
THE PICK: We’d still lean towards a Ford Everest GTI $46,690 L4T 2.0 180 370 D7 1326 6.4 6.6 95 55 F
GX $49,080 L4TD 2.8 150 450 A6 2130 - 7.6 D - A R $55,490 L4T 2.0 213 380 D7 1495 5.0 6.9 95 56 A
GXL $54,350 L4TD 2.8 150 450 A6 2125 - 7.6 D - A R Wagon $57,490 L4T 2.0 213 380 D7 1476 5.2 7.1 95 56 A
Crusade $61,410 L4TD 2.8 150 450 A6 2155 - 7.6 D - A Passat
Prado Volkswagen’s quiet achiever improves with a stronger base engine,
updated multimedia, more safety and revised styling, but prices jump
Genuine off-road ability, turbo-diesel torque and Toyota dependability... THE PICK: Big model cull means potent 206TSI and Alltrack gone. Sad
yep, there’s plenty to like about Prado, just not on the school run
THE PICK: GXL brings extra kit, but hose-down GX base appeals 140TSI Business sedan $46,590 L4T 2.0 140 320 D7 1511 7.9 6.4 95 49 F
GX $54,090 L4TD 2.8 130 420 M6 2230 - 7.9 D 61 A 140TSI Business Variant $48,590 L4T 2.0 140 320 D7 1567 8.1 6.6 95 49 F
GX $56,990 L4TD 2.8 130 450 A6 2240 - 8.0 D 61 A T-Cross
GXL $60,690 L4TD 2.8 130 420 M6 2315 - 7.9 D 61 A Polo on stilts impresses in many areas and offers extra space but
interior finish not typical Volkswagen standard. Cringe-worthy badges
GXL $63,690 L4TD 2.8 130 450 A6 2325 - 8.0 D 61 A THE PICK: Sign us up for a Life sentence
VX $73,990 L4TD 2.8 130 450 A6 2385 - 8.0 D 61 A 85TSI Life $27,990 L3T 1.0 85 200 D7 1240 10.2 5.4 95 - F
Kakadu $84,590 L4TD 2.8 130 450 A6 2455 - 8.0 D 61 A 85TSI Style $30,990 L3T 1.0 85 200 D7 1240 10.2 5.4 95 - 07/20 F
Kakadu Horizon $88,990 L4TD 2.8 130 450 A6 2455 - 8.0 D 61 A T-Roc
LandCruiser 70 The larger of VW’s two ‘small SUVs’ T-Roc combines Golf
underpinnings with a taller ride height. We like it. A lot.
Huge bush-bashing capability and monster diesel V8 make this ’80s THE PICK: Either way, this is our small SUV of choice right now
survivor useful, but you’ve gotta get right outta town. A dated relic
THE PICK: Awful to ride in, live with and drive back in civilisation 110TSI Style $33,990 L4T 1.4 110 250 A8 1319 8.7 6.2 95 - F
WorkMate $68,990 V8TD 4.5 151 430 M5 2295 - 10.7 D 58 A 140TSI Sport $40,490 L4T 2.0 140 320 D7 1420 7.2 6.8 95 - 10/20 A
GXL $72,190 V8TD 4.5 151 430 M5 2295 - 10.7 D 69 A Tiguan
LandCruiser Tiguan now more spacious but too sober in lower-line versions, is
getting pricey and tempered by a hard ride without adaptive dampers
Touring comfort and go-anywhere ability make pensioner ’Cruiser THE PICK: 132TSI Comfortline with a few luxury options
great for the bush but a barge in the city. 300 Series here in 2021
THE PICK: GLX diesel seems the right balance, but the 200’s getting on 110TSI Trendline $34,490 L4T 1.4 110 250 D6 1500 9.5 6.6 95 58 F
GX $80,996 V8TTD 4.5 200 650 A6 2635 - 9.5 D 61 A 110TSI Comfortline $38,990 L4T 1.4 110 250 D6 1500 9.5 6.6 95 58 F
GXL $92,696 V8TTD 4.5 200 650 A6 2630 - 9.5 D 69 A 132TSI Comfortline $43,490 L4T 2.0 132 320 D7 1600 7.9 8.5 95 58 11/18 A
VX $103,396 V8TTD 4.5 200 650 A6 2705 - 9.5 D 61 A 162TSI Highline $50,990 L4T 2.0 162 350 D7 1637 6.6 10.7 95 58 06/19 A
Sahara $124,396 V8TTD 4.5 200 650 A6 2705 - 9.5 D 61 A Tiguan Allspace
Hilux Big boot, small third row in stretched Tiguan seven-seater, the
Mexican-made Allspace is overshadowed by related Skoda Kodiaq
Recently updated with more power and a better ride but Hilux still isn’t THE PICK: 132TSI AWD for its stronger engine
class leading. Doesn’t stop you buying thousands of them each month
THE PICK: Test drive a Ranger or D-Max before you commit 110TSI Comfortline $40,490 L4T 1.4 110 250 D6 - - - 95 58 F
Workmate $46,790 L4TD 2.4 110 400 M6 2045 - 7.1 D - A 132TSI Comfortline $44,990 L4T 2.0 132 320 D7 1735 8.2 7.9 95 58 A
Workmate $48,790 L4TD 2.4 110 400 A6 2045 - 7.8 D - A 162TSI Highline $52,490 L4T 2.0 162 350 D7 1769 6.8 8.3 95 58 A
SR $50,010 L4TD 2.8 150 420 M6 2080 - 7.4 D - A 140TDI $54,690 L4TD 2.0 140 400 D7 1845 8.6 6.0 D - A
SR $52,160 L4TD 2.8 150 450 A6 2080 - 7.9 D - A Touareg
SR+ $52,010 L4TD 2.8 150 420 M6 2080 - 7.4 D - A Old 190TDI replaced with broader range and Euro6 compliant 3.0L
diesel. Edges out more expensive German rivals for refinement/value
SR+ $54,160 L4TD 2.8 150 450 A6 2080 - 7.9 D - A THE PICK: 170 is mega value, though V8 is a ‘cheap’ Bentley Bentayga
SR5 $57,920 L4TD 2.8 150 420 M6 2075 - - D - A 170TDI $81,490 V6TD 3.0 170 500 A8 2067 7.5 6.8 D A
142 whichcar.com.au/wheels
TOYOTA – VOLVO
YOUR COMPLETE NEW CAR BUYER’S GUIDE
WHAT IT ALL MEANS
PRICE Recommended retail figure at time of publication (asterisk indicates driveaway price)
ENGINE TYPE L, in-line; V, vee; F, flat. Number of cylinders. T, turbo; S, supercharged; D, diesel;
H, hybrid; E, electric SIZE Litres or kWh POWER kW TORQUE Nm TRANSMISSION M, manual; A,
auto; D, dual-clutch; C, CVT WEIGHT Kerb, kg 0-100 km/h, acceleration in seconds (Wheels as-tested
figures in italics) FUEL CONS Consumption in litres, or kWh, per 100km RON Octane of fuel required,
as numbered, or D for diesel RESALE percent, 3-year resale in Glass’s ISSUE TESTED month/year
DRIVE A, all-wheel; F, front; R, rear. Any figure in bold is our own estimate.
Price
Engine
type
Size
Power
Torque
Trans.
Kerb
weight
0-100
Fuel cons.
RON
Resale %
Issue
tested
Drive
210TDI Elegance $99,490 V6TD 3.0 210 600 A8 2070 6.1 6.8 D - A EDITOR Dylan Campbell
ART DIRECTOR Felipe Ubilla
210TDI R-Line $108,490 V6TD 3.0 210 600 A8 2169 6.1 6.8 D - A ASSOCIATE EDITOR Ash Westerman
JOURNALIST Chris Thompson
310TDI R-Line $136,490 V8TTD 4.0 310 900 A8 2305 4.9 7.5 D - A
SENIOR JOURNALISTS David Bonnici, Daniel Gardner, Scott Newman
210TDI Wolfsburg Edition $119,990 V6TD 3.0 210 600 A8 2169 6.1 6.8 D - A STAFF JOURNALISTS Louis Cordony, Tom Fraser
V8 TDI Wolfsburg Edition $139,990 V8TTD 4.0 310 900 A8 2354 4.9 7.5 D - A CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Alex Inwood, Andy Enright,
Angus MacKenzie, Byron Mathioudakis, Nathan
Amarok Ponchard, Peter Robinson, Michael Stahl
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Cristian Brunelli,
The thinking person’s dual-cab, with powerhouse V6 option, eight Nathan Duff, Ben Galli, Will Horner
ratios, constant AWD and unmatched refinement for the class CONTRIBUTING ARTIST Brendon Wise
THE PICK: Any V6TD will convert sceptics
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS Ellen Dewar, Alastair Brook
TDI400 Core $44,590 L4TTD 2.0 132 400 M6 1873 10.5 8.9 D 54 A IMAGING ARTIST Paul Breen
TDI420 Core $47,590 L4TTD 2.0 132 420 A8 1873 10.5 8.4 D 54 A MANAGER, TELEVISION & VIDEO Elle Tosolini
CREATIVE DIRECTOR, TELEVISION & VIDEO Alex Inwood
TDI420 Core Plus $51,590 L4TTD 2.0 132 420 A8 1978 10.5 8.4 D 54 A
COMMERCIAL CONTENT DIRECTOR
TDI500 Core $49,590 V6TD 3.0 165 500 M6 2091 - 9.7 D 54 04/20 A Matt Rice (02) 9263 9706
TDI500 Core Enduro $49,590 V6TD 3.0 165 500 M6 2091 - 9.7 D 54 A COMMERCIAL MANAGER – NEW CARS DIVISION
Liam Quirk (02) 9282 8348
TDI550 Core $52,590 V6TD 3.0 165 550 A8 2091 7.9 9.1 D 54 A
BRAND SALES MANAGER Adrian Smith (03) 9567 4320
Sportline 550 $56,590 V6TD 3.0 165 550 A8 2078 7.9 9.1 D 54 07/18 A NSW AGENCY SALES Max Kolomiiets (02) 8275 6486
Highline 550 $61,090 V6TD 3.0 165 550 A8 2169 7.9 9.1 D 54 A SA ADVERTISING Nick Lenthall (08) 8212 6256
ADVERTISING PRODUCTION Kali Cooke
Ultimate 580 $72,790 V6TD 3.0 190 580 A8 2196 7.3 9.5 D 54 A PRODUCTION CONTROLLER Di McLarty
W580 $71,990 V6TD 3.0 200 580 A8 2244 7.3 9.5 D - A MARKETING ENQUIRIES Andrew Amato (03) 9567 4145
SYNDICATION ENQUIRIES [email protected]
W580S $79,990 V6TD 3.0 200 580 A8 2244 7.3 9.5 D - A
SUBSCRIPTION & SALES ENQUIRIES
Volvo 5 years/unlimited Visit wheels.subscription.com.au
Email [email protected]
S60 Phone 136 116 – 8am to 6pm (EST) Monday to Friday.
Mail to Magshop, GPO Box 5252 Sydney NSW 2000
A true sleeper, particularly in T8 form, the S60 is Sweden’s suave
C-Class and 3 Series rival, but on big wheels lacks ride quality of either OPERATIONS AND FINANCE MANAGER Cain Murphy
THE PICK: Hybrid if you can stretch to it CIRCULATION MANAGER Stuart Jones
T5 Momentum $54,990 L4T 2.0 187 350 A8 1802 6.7 10.1 95 49 02/20 A PUBLISHING DIRECTOR, DIGITAL Mike Stevens
T5 Inscription CONTENT DIRECTOR, NEW CARS DIVISION Glenn Butler
T5 R-Design $60,990 L4T 2.0 187 350 A8 1767 6.4 6.6 95 49 A
T8 R-Design CEO, ARE MEDIA AUTOMOTIVE Andrew Beecher
$64,990 L4T 2.0 192 400 A8 1767 6.3 6.6 95 50 11/19 A
T5 Momentum Published by Are Media, part of the Mercury Capital,
T5 Inscription $84,990 L4STH 2.0 311 670 A8 2006 4.3 2.1 95 50 02/20 A ABN 18 053 273 546, 54-58 Park Street, Sydney, NSW 2000.
T5 R-Design © 2020. The trademark WHEELS is the property of Are Consumer
T8 R-Design V60
Media Limited and is used under licence.
D5 Cross Country The Volvo for the discerning enthusiast, with size and practicality All rights reserved. ISSN 0043-4779.
of a wagon and driving dynamics of a sedan. Avoid big alloys for ride
T4 Momentum THE PICK: A well-specced Inscription nails most key criteria Printed by Ovato, 31-35 Heathcote Road, Moorebank,
T4 Inscription NSW 2170. (02) 9828 1350
T5 R-Design $56,990 L4T 2.0 187 350 A8 1773 6.5 6.6 95 49 02/20 A
Recharge plug-in PRIVACY NOTICE
$62,990 L4T 2.0 187 350 A8 1773 6.5 6.6 95 50 02/20 A
D4 Momentum This issue of Wheels is published by Are Media Pty Ltd. Are may use and disclose your
T5 Momentum $66,990 L4T 2.0 192 400 A8 1773 6.4 6.6 95 50 A information in accordance with our Privacy Policy, including to provide you with your
D4 Inscription requested products or services and to keep you informed of other Are publications,
T5 Inscription $86,990 L4STH 2.0 311 670 A8 2005 4.5 2.1 95 50 A products, services and events. Our Privacy Policy is located at www.aremedia.com.au/
T6 R-Design privacy/ It also sets out on how you can access or correct your personal information and
T8 Polestar V90 lodge a complaint. Are may disclose your personal information offshore to its owners, joint
venture partners, service providers and agents located throughout the world, including
D5 Momentum Stands comparison with the very best of Volvo’s wagon back in New Zealand, USA, the Philippines and the European Union. In addition, this issue may
T6 Momentum catalogue. Choose the smallest wheels and air suspension, though contain Reader Offers, being offers, competitions or surveys. Reader Offers may require
D5 Inscription THE PICK: Minuscule sales means the model range is limited... you to provide personal information to enter or to take part. Personal information collected
T6 Inscription for Reader Offers may be disclosed by us to service providers assisting Are in the conduct of
T6 R-Design $80,990 L4TTD 2.0 173 480 A8 1894 7.5 5.7 D - A the Reader Offer and to other organisations providing special prizes or offers that are part
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XC40 that opt-out choice, personal information collected for Reader Offers may also be disclosed
by us to other organisations for use by them to inform you about other products, services
2019 COTY punches a long way above its small-SUV class. Peppy T5 or events or to give to other organisations that may use this information for this purpose.
feels like a hot hatch on stilts. Lovely, though ride can be a tad stiff If you require further information, please contact Are's Privacy Officer either by email at
THE PICK: T5 R-Design – but don’t forget to include adaptive dampers [email protected] or mail at Privacy Officer Are Media Pty Ltd, 54 Park
Street, Sydney NSW 2000.
$46,990 L4T 2.0 140 300 A8 1631 8.4 8.8 95 56 F
INSURANCE DISCLAIMER
$51,990 L4T 2.0 140 300 A8 1705 8.5 8.8 95 56 A
Based on a 35-year-old male, location Chatswood, NSW 2067, Rating 1 For Life, No Finance,
$56,990 L4T 2.0 185 350 A8 1710 7.2 7.7 95 57 07/18 A Private Use. All prices are subject to AAMI’s underwriting guidelines and conditions.
$64,990 L3T 1.5 195 265 D7 1760 7.3 2.2 98 - 08/20 F @wheelsaustralia 143
XC60
2018 COTY a deserving winner, with a breadth of abilities clothed in a
handsomely presented, spacious and ultra-comfy body
THE PICK: T6 R-Design if we’re spending our own money
$64,990 L4TD 2.0 140 400 A8 1865 8.4 5.4 D 60 A
$64,990 L4T 2.0 187 350 A8 1857 6.8 7.8 95 56 A
$71,990 L4TD 2.0 140 400 A8 1865 8.4 5.4 S 63 A
$71,990 L4T 2.0 187 350 A8 1857 6.8 7.8 95 61 A
$78,990 L4ST 2.0 246 440 A8 1911 5.8 8.0 95 63 A
$99,990 L4STH 2.0 311 670 A8 2105 5.2 2.1 95 - 02/18 A
XC90
The seven-seat XC90 offers a gentle, considered take on the premium
large SUV. As with XC60, optional air springs are a must
THE PICK: Go T8, but all models present a compelling case
$89,990 L4TTD 2.0 173 480 A8 1970 7.8 5.9 D 63 A
$89,990 L4ST 2.0 235 400 A8 1965 6.5 8.5 95 63 A
$94,990 L4TTD 2.0 173 480 A8 1970 7.8 5.9 D 63 A
$94,990 L4ST 2.0 235 400 A8 1965 6.5 8.5 95 63 A
$96,990 L4ST 2.0 246 440 A8 1965 6.4 8.5 95 63 A
$114,990 L4STH 2.0 311 680 A8 2296 5.5 2.1 95 63 A
RETRO SERIES
MORGAN
/
WORDS MICHAEL STAHL
In for the long haul
A FINAL CRY OF ‘TIMBER!’ ENDS THE 84-YEAR RUN OF THIS ENGLISH ICON
MUSING ON THE Morgan 4/4, this tweedy, time-trapped sports the revised Z-section chassis with an ash body frame, clothed
car looks to be more English Setter than record-setter. But oh, in hand-formed steel and aluminium panels. The two- and
is it ever: the 4/4 was introduced in 1936 and, but for a five- four-seaters were strong, light and lively enough, with
year nameplate hiatus filled by its sister variant the Plus 4, (initially) a 1.1-litre Coventry Climax 1.1 and soon after, a
the base-model Morgan continued in production until 2019. 1.2-litre Standard engine.
Only in July of last year (2020) did the final Plus 4 World War Two halted production until 1946. Four years
farewell the 4/4’s antiquated architecture, after an later, a ‘one engine’ policy at Standard forced Morgan to
astonishing 84 years. develop the beefed-up Plus 4 to accept a 2.1-litre four, but in
1955 the base-model 4/4 returned in a ‘Series 2’, with the Plus
In 1905, at age 24, former railway apprentice HFS (Harry) 4’s more rounded lines and a 1.2-litre Ford engine. The Plus 4
Morgan opened a motor garage and dealership. In 1910 gained a broader and better-equipped cockpit and Triumph’s
he produced a lightweight, three-wheeled car, the Morgan 2.0-litre TR2 engine.
Runabout. A V-twin engine ahead of the front axle took drive
via a prop shaft to a rear-mounted gearbox, thence by chain to In a sense, that’s where the story ends ... except it didn’t.
the single rear wheel. Also novel was the independent ‘sliding The 4/4 slowly and subtly evolved, adopting a succession of
pillar’ front suspension, a design using kingpins with coil- new Ford engines (and briefly, Fiat) through the years, disc
sprung sliding axles. brakes in 1961, a low-line body for two-seaters from 1966,
and airbags in 1997. However, the anachronistic chassis,
By the 1930s, Morgan was developing increasingly suspensions and traditional handcrafting remained to the end.
sophisticated road versions of its ‘cyclecar’. The F-type
four-seater of 1933 accommodated a Ford four-cylinder engine At the 2020 conclusion of an extraordinary life, a total of
behind the radiator and introduced a Z-section steel ladder about 31,500 steel-chassis Morgan 4/4 and Plus 4 four-cylinder
chassis that clearly pointed to what should come next. models (and another 3500 of the V8-engined Plus 8 variant)
had been built.
The 4/4 (indicating four wheels and four cylinders), topped
144 whichcar.com.au/wheels
IN
DETAIL
INITIAL NAME 697 NUMBER OF ASH TIMBER 200
OF THE 4/4, FRAME PIECES (TWO- AND
UNTIL 1945 TOTAL MORGAN FOUR-SEATER, RESPECTIVELY) KM/H TOP SPEED OF MORGAN
PRODUCTION IN 2019 PLUS 8 (3.5-LITRE V8, 1968)
4-4 94/114
CLIMAX; NO ‘ANTI’ ABOUT IT CHOOSE YOUR BODY
The 1122cc Coventry Climax ‘OC’ engine The 4/4 debuted with the options of two-seat
had overhead inlet and side exhaust valves, roadster, drophead coupe or open four-seater.
and produced an adequate 25kW, good for You’d be forgiven for not noticing, but they
a top speed of 120km/h. A 1098cc version have evolved since. Peter Morgan, son of HFS,
styled the ’55 Series 2, which dispensed with
was soon offered for sub-1100cc class the flat radiator and folding windscreen. A
racing; likewise a 1267cc ohv Standard low-line ‘super sports’ body graced two-
seaters from 1966. Bucket seats replaced
Special (29kW) .The Series 2 (1955) the standard bench in 1971.
replaced this with an 1172cc Ford unit; a
@wheelsaustralia 145
series of Ford fours would follow.
DRIVEN TO EXTINCTION
FIAT/ABARTH
SPYDER
COULD THE DEMISE OF ITALY’S VERSION OF THE MX-5 THREATEN
THE EXISTENCE OF MAZDA’S NEXT-GEN DROP-TOP HERO?
REMEMBER WHEN NO-ONE built rorty, raspy (and AUSSIE had their appeal, but it couldn’t match the dynamic
frequently rusty) sports cars like the Italians? The SALES fluency of the MX-5, or the delicious, rev-happy fizz
1960s and early-70s have long remained the golden of the Mazda’s atmo 1.5 (and, to a lesser extent, its
era for many of Italy’s greatest brands, and that’s 2016 – 169 updated 135kW 2.0-litre). For all its 6.8sec-to-100km/h
particularly true of Fiat. Did you know that Australians 2017 – 375 muscle, the 124 Spider’s 125kW/250Nm ‘Multiair’ 1.4
bought 5692 Fiats in 1970? 2018 – 153 turbo felt laggy at the bottom end and strained up top.
2019 – 101
You’ll also now be able to reminisce about that 2020 – 58 Unlike the original 124 Spider, which sold almost
time when Fiat entered a model-sharing agreement 200,000 units in total – 75 percent of which went to the
with Mazda because the fruits of that union – the US – the latter-day 124 Spider unfortunately leaves no
Hiroshima-built Fiat/Abarth 124 Spider – has officially such legacy. Across four years in Europe, it achieved
ceased production. 23,963 sales whereas in the US for the same period,
the 124 Spider managed just 13,112 sales (compared to
Of course, it’s not really news anymore that the 124 37,483 for the MX-5/Miata).
Spider wasn’t long for this world. In early 2019, Fiat
said it wouldn’t be developing a replacement, but few Those volumes simply weren’t enough for Fiat
observers were expecting the 124 Spider to be withdrawn to justify renewing its manufacturing contract
from Europe by the end of that year, with just the with Mazda, combined with the prohibitive cost of
North American market (and remaining Aussie stocks) upgrading the 1.4-litre Multiair engine to meet Euro 6d
temporarily keeping the Italo-Japanese roadster afloat. emissions regulations.
So after a career spanning less than four years, what More worrying, though, is what Fiat’s withdrawal
went wrong? Frankly, the car itself was never quite will do to the MX-5. In 2016, Mazda USA’s senior vice
everything it could’ve been, simply because the car it president, Robert Davis, said “the possibility exists
was based on (the Mazda MX-5 roadster) was so damn that without our partnership with FCA, there may
superb. While the 139mm-longer 124 Spider had a unique not have been a business case to produce the fourth-
presence, especially the Abarth version (the only model generation MX-5/Miata.” With MX-5 volumes now
sold in Australia) with optional paint black-outs, it could consistently below 10,000 a year in the US, and not a
never match the harmony of the exquisite Mazda. whole lot more in Europe, can the world’s favourite
roadster continue to survive on its own?
Sure, the Abarth’s brattish Monza exhaust, turbo-
boosted mid-range, tighter handling and racy Recaros NATHAN PONCHARD
THE SOURCE OF INSPIRATION
Designed by American Tom Tjaarda at Pininfarina, the
original Fiat 124 Spider debuted at the Turin Motor Show
in November 1966. Its single-headlight face introduced
a look that would appear on the 124 Sport Coupe the
following year, but unlike the coupe (whose front end
was altered significantly over time), the Spider’s shape
remained largely intact for its entire 19-year lifespan,
and provided styling inspiration for its reborn namesake.
146 whichcar.com.au/wheels
#drivingthenext
www.michelin.com.au