Articles by Aiden Taylor

Volkswagen TRISTAR concept hints at T6 Transporter design and new extended cab body.Volkswagen has given us our first taste of the next-generation T6 Transporter light commercial lineup with the first images of the new TRISTAR concept, due to appear at the Paris motor show next month.Riding on the same platform as the existing T5-generation Transporter, the TRISTAR showcases a new extended cab ute body that could point to a new variant for the T6 to sit between the single and dual-cab chassis models.The concept also showcases several design updates over the current T5, that likely preview the next-generation T6’s look ahead of its expected debut at next year’s Geneva motor show.The concept features an altogether sharper front end design than current Transporter models, with a more aggressive grille and greater integration of LED day-time running lights.At the rear the TRISTAR adopts a horizontal taillight design that harks back to that used by the T3 generation of the 1980s.Inside, the concept features a versatile interior design that appears to be production ready - including rotating seats and a 20-inch display that doubles as a table that likely preview new features headed for the T6.Beneath the metal the TRISTAR adopts a modified version of the T5 Transporter’s chassis, with a permanent four-wheel drive system and mechanical rear axle lock.Measuring 4,788mm long, 2,320mm wide and 2,066mm tall the Paris-bound show car is slightly smaller in length than current short wheelbase T5 Transporter models, but is significantly wider thanks partly to the show-spec 245-section off-road tyres.With a healthy 30mm of extra ground clearance, the versatile new concept is also slightly taller than existing Transporter models.The TRISTAR is powered by a 150kW/400Nm version of the 2.0-litre diesel engine found in existing Transporter TDI400 production models, while a 7-speed DSG gearbox drives all four wheels.

Drop-top BMW 2 Series and M235i performance variants break cover. The new 2 Series Convertible will join its hard-top sibling and the family-oriented 2 Series Active Tourer when it goes on sale locally next year.The 2 Series Convertible is more closely related to its coupe brother than the front drive 2 Series Active Tourer. With an identical wheelbase, the convertible sticks with the classic rear-wheel drive and longitudinal engine formula.From the door mirrors down the styling also closely follows the 2 Series coupe, but the removal of the fixed metal roof looks to have given the new model proportions that are reminiscent of the handsome E46 3 Series convertible from two generations ago. Unlike the folding hardtop 4 Series Convertible, the 2 Series Convertible features an electrically operated fabric roof which can be opened and closed in 20 seconds at speeds of up to 50km/h. As standard the roof is coloured black, while Anthracite and Brown are available as options. The 2 Series Convertible is effectively the replacement for the outgoing 1 Series drop-top. The new model is slightly longer and wider than its predecessor, while torsional rigidity has increased by 20 per cent. BMW claim the increased exterior dimensions have resulted in a more spacious cabin and 30-litres of additional cargo space at 355-litres.  That figure shrinks to a still substantial 280-litres with the roof open. Globally, the 2 Series Convertible will launch with four different engine options, with six-speed manual and eight-speed automatic transmissions available. The range kicks off with the entry 220i, which is powered by a 135kW/270Nm four-cylinder engine capable of completing the 0-100km/h sprint in 7.5 seconds. Fuel consumption is listed as 6.2L/100km when the eight-speed automatic transmission is optioned. The 220d adopts BMW’s familiar 2.0-litre turbodiesel unit, producing 140kW and 400Nm - 5kW and 20Nm of extra punch over its 220d Coupe equivalent.  The diesel convertible can achieve 4.1L/100km in automatic guise, with a 0-100km/h sprint time of 7.4 seconds. The mid-range 228i Convertible uses a 180kW/380Nm four-cylinder engine with enough gusto to hit 100km/h in 6.0 seconds, while capable of returning 6.1L/100km.  The range-topping M235i Convertible is powered by BMW’s mighty 3.0-litre single turbo straight six engine which pumps out 240kW and 450Nm. That’s enough grunt to push the 1675kg convertible to 100km/h in 5.2 seconds – three tenths slower than the M235i coupe. Like the M235i Coupe, the convertible adopts a unique chassis tune, bigger brakes, and revised aerodynamic and styling features. BMW claim the new M235i Convertible will have class-leading dynamics, but with an extra 130kg over the coupe, the hardtop M235i will likely remain the better driver’s tool.

Jaguar unveils the new 3 Series-rivalling XE mid-size sedan.After a prolonged teaser campaign, Jaguar has finally taken the wraps off the production version of its new entry-level XE sedan, set to slot beneath the XF and XJ models when it goes on sale internationally next year. Tasked with tempting buyers away from BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Audi rivals, the XE represents Jaguar’s return to the mid-size luxury sedan segment.Last time Jaguar attempted to battle with the 3 Series, it entered into the ring with a dressed up Ford Mondeo in the form of the X-Type that was sold between 2001-09. Now however, things are different and the modern post-Ford ownership Jaguar has produced something rear-drive that might genuinely rival the 3 Series and C-Class segment veterans.The overall design of the XE is a further evolution of Jaguar’s current design language introduced by the larger XF sedan and consolidated with the F-Type. With a long bonnet, rear-set cabin and short bootlid, the aim is to emphasize the XE’s rear-wheel drive stance and sporting intentions.At the rear, the XE adopts a smooth and clean profile with a subtle hint of F-Type in the shape of the LED taillights, while the ‘S’ model (pictured) gains a subtle lip spoiler and dual exit exhaust tips.The interior design is unlike any other current Jaguar, with a clear driver focus. The central stack is relatively undramatic but there are some funky shapes molded into the door panels and dashboard to give a unique aesthetic.The XE is also Jaguar’s first model to receive its new InControl multimedia system which features an 8-inch touchscreen that houses all the gizmos including satnav, Bluetooth phone and audio, USB connectivity and downloadable applications. The car can even become a Wi-fi hotspot, which can serve up to eight devices at a time.In a first for the segment, the XE uses an aluminium intensive monocoque to reduce weight and improve handing and efficiency. Jaguar claims the XE is the brand's lightest and stiffest sedan ever, while it’s also the first model to ride on the British firm’s new modular architecture.Jaguar claims the XE is fitted with the most sophisticated suspension design in its class. Front suspension is by double wishbones while the rear employs an integral link setup, usually only found on larger sedans.The XE will be offered with a range of petrol and diesel engines which can be had with either a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic gearbox and rear-wheel drive.The range-topping XE S model uses the 250kW/450Nm 3.0-litre supercharged V6 from the F-Type and can crack 96km/h (60mph) in 4.9 seconds. A more powerful ‘R’ model is tipped to arrive at a later date with Jaguar’s 5.0-litre supercharged V8 beneath its bonnet.The XE is also launching with a new range of efficient ‘Ingenium’ four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines. The 120kW/380Nm 2.0-litre diesel unit will launch first and can produce as little as 99g/km of CO2 in the XE, making this new model the greenest Jaguar ever.The full Jaguar XE range will be announced at the Paris motor show on October 2 before the new model goes on sale internationally early next year. Expect to see the XE in local showrooms towards the end of 2015.

The Range Rover Sport SVR is Land Rover's most powerful and dynamic model ever.  After teasing crowds at the UK's Goodwood Festival of Speed in concept form, Land Rover has revealed its production-ready Range Rover Sport SVR performance SUV.  The new Sport SVR will battle with the Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG and Porsche Cayenne Turbo at the high horsepower end of the luxury SUV market.  Boasting the same 405kW/680Nm 5.0-litre supercharged V8 as the Jaguar F-Type R Coupé , the SVR gains 30kW and 55Nm over the standard Range Rover Sport V8 Supercharged.  The power and torque gains come courtesy of a recalibrated engine management system and retuned supercharger bypass valve which increases maximum boost pressure.  Land Rover claims the SVR can rocket from 0-100km/h in 4.7 seconds and reach an electronically limited top speed of 260km/h.  Despite the increases in power and performance, the SVR's combined fuel economy figure mirrors that of the standard Range Rover Sport V8 Supercharged at 12.8L/100km.  An 8-speed automatic gearbox with paddle shifters is carried over from the standard V8 Supercharged, though shift times have been reduced by up to 50 per cent through software upgrades.  The SVR also gains an active exhaust system with electronic valves that open at around 3,000rpm to deliver a fruiter note. A fuel cut-off system also activates during upshifts to provide a more visceral and audible shift.  Land Rover has even deliberately tuned the active exhaust to produce loud crackles and pops on the overrun.  The Range Rover Sport's standard four-wheel-drive system has been tuned to make the SVR more engaging and agile than existing variants. Up to 100 per cent of the engine's power can be sent to either end, while a revised rear locking differential – which can react quicker than in the standard car - is enhanced by a brake-based torque vectoring system.  Compared to the standard Sport chassis, the SVR adopts 20 per cent firmer rear subframe bushes, while the standard air suspension system has been modified for improved handling.  Adaptive dampers and hydraulically controlled active anti-roll bars are also fitted standard and presumably necessary to manage the hefty 2335kg curb weight.  Much of the hi-po Range Rover's development was carried out at the infamous Nurburgring Nordschleife circuit in Germany, which it lapped in 8:14 – quicker than any other production SUV and about the same as a BMW 1 Series M Coupe.  Despite the SVR's on-road focus, Land Rover insist the Range Rover's renowned off road capability has not been sacrificed. Ground clearance and wading depth both equal the standard Sport, and you still get the low-range transfer case and Land Rover's Terrain Response traction control system.  The standard wheel and tyre package includes 21-inch SVR-specific alloys wrapped in all-season tyres, while more road-focused 22-inch items wearing Continental SportContact 5 tyres are available as an option.   In terms of styling, the SVR features a redesigned front bumper with larger air intakes, while the side 'gills' and bonnet louvers have been restyled.  A more aggressive rear bumper housing quad exhaust tips has also been added along with flared wheel arches fore and aft.   Inside, the high-performance model gains 16-way electrically adjustable sports bucket seats and aluminium trim with carbon fibre available as an option.  The Range Rover Sport SVR will go on sale locally during the second quarter of 2015, slotting above the existing $161,600 V8 Supercharged variant.  

Powerhouse Museum to host Auto Obsession exhibition

Updated2015 Subaru BRZ poised to offer improved comfort and style.

Updated Porsche Cayenne SUV confirmed for November release with revised pricing and new engines.

Aiden Taylor road tests and reviews the 2014 Hyundai i30 Tourer Active diesel with specs, fuel consumption and verdict.

Third-generation Honda Jazz arrives with more room, fresh tech and improved efficiency.

Mazda’s lifetime capped-price servicing plan now applies to all new models.