Articles by CarsGuide team

The Valente sits between its Vito and Viano, and priced from $54,490 it comes standard with 17 inch alloys, automatic lights and wipers, Bluetooth phone connection, leather multifunction steering wheel and front and rear climate airconditioning. Benz says the Valente will provide customers with a family vehicle that is truly easy to own, easy to drive and is priced right in the heart of the people mover segment. It will also appeal to tour and hire car companies. To make way for the new variant Mercedes-Benz has cut the price of the entry level Vito by $3000 to $49,990. Viano is priced from $70,946. Valente is powered by a 2.2-litre four cylinder turbo diesel that produces 120kW and 360Nm. Fuel consumption is rated at 8.2 litres/100km. Boot capacity is a big 730 litres.

Or maybe they really are unbreakable, but the Hilux Heroes stunt driving team has no plans to trade in their utes any time soon.  The HiLux Heroes have unveiled new team livery -- but it's on the same old Hilux utes. When the team was formed back in 2007 the original plan was to update the vehicles after three years. But after more than 800 performances they are still going strong. In fact, the team has been renamed the Unbreakable HiLux Heroes for 2012 in a tribute to the toughness of its Hilux fleet. The Toyota Hilux utes used in the performances are similar to their road going 4.0-litre V6 counterparts, with heavy duty suspension for 15-metre ramp jumps and locking differentials for extended driving on two wheels the only major mechanical modifications. Lead driver Jack Monkhouse said he was amazed at how much punishment these cars have absorbed. "We've tortured them with thousands of jumps, bumps, skids and slides and yet they never miss a beat. "When we started the plan was to replace them after three years, but they are so tough they are now in their fifth year and are still as strong as ever."

The Wall of Death is normally reserved for lunatics, death-wishers, and extreme sports freaks. But the normally very sensible Mazda 2 took on the Wall of Death on April 1.The catch? Yes, this was done as part of the annual April Fools Day releases by carmakers all over the world. But this one was no hoax.“There’s no CGI, there’s no trick – the Mazda2 actually performed the stunt. It was done for April 1, but it’s the real thing,” Mazda Australia spokesman Steve Maciver says.

This large capacity scooter is priced from $10,990. Power for the Honda Integra scooter comes from a purpose-built engine and transmission package. The liquid-cooled, in-line two-cylinder 670cc engine is a lightweight and compact unit positioned to give a low centre of gravity. Honda's innovative Dual Clutch Transmission offers the convenience and ease of use of an automatic transmission with the optional control of a manual mode should the rider choose. The Integra offers strong torque at low to medium engine rpm, which is where riders spend the vast majority of their riding time, together with a very usable power delivery, low exhaust gas emissions and superb fuel efficiency. The Integra features conventional motorcycle wheels and suspension, and a rigid tube steel diamond frame with geometry optimised to create a sense of excitement and complete control. Overall chassis stability is further enhanced by the Integra's weight distribution which also ensures easy handling at all speeds, from stop-start city riding to high-speed highway cruising. The Integra's C-ABS system is equipped with both the easy control of a Combined Brake System and the extra reassurance of an Antilock Brake System. The CBS effectively balances front and rear braking control for smooth operation. At the same time, the ABS provides extra reassurance and the confidence to build skills in unexpected or extreme situations. Despite its slim proportions, the Integra features a 15-litre under seat storage space large enough to hold a helmet or waterproof cover. The main fairing also offers a second, smaller storage compartment within easy reach of the seat, ideal for tickets, wallet or mobile phone. As well as being practical and fun to ride, the Integra is a bold and original styling statement, fusing new forms, slick surface treatments and strong lines. It offers a high level of wind protection and a relaxed, comfortable riding position.

In this case, it's the "next" generation  plug-in hybrid electric vehicle. Called the Toyota NS4 it's still in concept stage but oh, what a handsome beast. Toyota says NS4 responds to changing customer perceptions of "environmentally-conscientious" motoring, taking PHEV technology a step beyond that of the Prius family. In addition to outstanding Eco credentials NS4 represents an increase in customer desire for added value in areas such as advanced design, refined sensory satisfaction, state-of-the-art safety features and sophisticated driving involvement. The NS4 concept signals a new styling direction for the Toyota brand. The concept's styling reflects a new take on  Toyota's design language, with a low overall vehicle height and a cab-forward stance. Based on a compact, next generation platform, the four-seater, four-door NS4 is 4,650 mm long, 1,770 mm wide and just 1,370 mm high. It shares it's 2,700 mm wheelbase with the Prius. The NS4 concept's Human Machine Interface provides a user interface built around a multi-touch screen with the look and feel of a smartphone. The multimedia interface's simple, intuitive operation controls air-conditioning, audio and navigation systems, conveying vehicle and battery charge information quickly while minimising distractions and maximising driver awareness. The HMI system is even capable of 'learning' driver preferences and habits, anticipating driver responses to specific environments and situations. Within the cabin, a constant, comfortable environment is ensured through careful temperature control. All glazing is in UV blocking and heat-resistant glass. Four new glass technologies are introduced to improve driver visibility, and both petrol and electric driving mode mileage efficiency. The NS4 concept is equipped with a next generation Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) powertrain. Combining reductions in component size and weight with a rapid charging time, it aims at improved overall fuel economy, better acceleration and a greater all-electric range. The powertrain incorporates a 2.0-litre petrol engine to combine the system's extended full electric driving mode and 2015 class-leading fuel efficiency with the performance to offer its driver a smooth driving experience. NS4 concept is designed to add increased desirability, sensory satisfaction and driving pleasure to the next generation plug-in hybrid ownership experience.

From May, the two European makes will no longer be distributed in Australia and New Zealand by the independent Ateco Group in Sydney, headed by entrepreneur Neville Crichton. Ateco also holds the rights for Citroen, Lotus and the chinese brands Chery and Great Wall. Sister company European Automotive Imports has the distribution rights for Ferrari and Maserati. The move follows the Fiat Group's takeover of Chrysler. The new Group is combining its distribution arms in all major markets and concentrating on those, such as Chrysler Australia, that are factory owned. The changes to Alfa Romeo, Fiat and Fiat commercial vehicle distribution will have no effect on the distribution of Ferrari and Maserati, which remain with European Automotive Imports. All existing Fiat and Alfa Romeo dealers will move with the brands to Chrysler, while arrangements for staff at Ateco who worked exclusively on Alfa Romeo and Fiat will be made on an individual basis. At one time Volkswagen, Audi, Suzuki and Kia have all spent periods under the guiding hand of Ateco. "There is no doubt that without Ateco, the Fiat Group could not even consider returning Alfa Romeo, Fiat and Fiat Commercial Vehicles to factory distribution," chairman Neville Crichton said. "Ateco has proven to them that all three brands have a long term place in the Australian and New Zealand markets, that there is consistent and growing demand for their products and that Australia and New Zealand have, once again, got a key role to play in the companys global aspirations." Crichton is noted for rescuing and restoring a unique part of Alfa Romeo's heritage when he purchased the last remaining Alfa Romeo G1 in the world, the model that has the distinction of being the very first Alfa Romeo. Believing that all Alfa Romeos must be a driveable, not museum pieces, Neville Crichton carried out a ground-up restoration that was so thorough the restored car won its class in the worlds leading classic car event, the Pebble Beach Concours in the USA. During Alfa Romeos Centenary Year, the G1 toured Australia successfully competing in classic car events across Australia. "Ateco is a constantly changing and evolving company," Crichton said. "As we say good bye to Alfa Romeo and Fiat we will be welcoming into our company new brands and businesses that will benefit from the unique skills and talents we have to offer." Managing director of the Chrysler Australia, Clyde Campbell, confirmed the takeover of the iconic Italian brands. "We are delighted to be named the official distributor of Fiat, Fiat Commercial and Alfa Romeo, and we look forward to re-energising these brands in the Australian market," Campbell said. Under the new agreement, the current Fiat and Alfa Romeo dealer group, which numbers 17 passenger dealerships with 22 commercial vehicle outlets across the country, will report into the Melbourne-based Chrysler Australia group. Sales for the Fiat, Fiat Commercial and Alfa Romeo brands during 2011 were recorded by VFACTS at 2,635 vehicles.

Travolta's car, worth around $100,000, was reported stolen last September after the actor left it parked near a Jaguar dealership in Los Angeles.Following a tip, investigators followed Michael Green, 58, to an illegal auto repair facility and discovered what they called a "chop shop" of stolen cars and car parts.Various parts from Travolta's 1970 Mercedes 280 SL convertible were among those found. Green, from Los Angeles, admitted stealing Travolta's car and more than 30 other classic cars over a two-year period.D.L. Rayford, 52, also of Los Angeles, admitted to helping to steal Travolta's car and hide it. Green was jailed for 14 years and Rayford received an 18-month sentence.The "Pulp Fiction" star is an avid car collector, in addition to being a bona fide aviator. His array of vehicles includes a Rolls-Royce and a Jaguar XJ6.

Ford gave Mulally a $3 million boost for 2011, taking his total package from US$26.5m to US$26.9m ($28.5m). The total now comprises his $2 million salary, $22 million in stock and a potential $5.46 million in cash bonuses. However, the awarded cash bonus was slashed by 42 per cent to $3.27m, because Ford's stock had fallen 36 per cent over 2011. They have risen 16 per cent since the start of 2012, so Mulally may have a fatter pay packet at the end of this year - particularly if it adds to the value of his total $100 million worth of stock. Mulally's package cements him on the top tier of global carmaker bosses, and well ahead of those at the helm of GM and Chrysler. What they get (in Australian dollars Volkswagen AG CEO Martin Winterkorn: $22.5m - a rise of 87 per cent. Fiat-Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne: $18.7m in Fiat stock. Nissan-Renault CEO Carlos Ghosn: $11.5m in salary and stock options. GM CEO Dan Akerson: $1.64m salary, plus up to $1.9m in stock, no cash bonus for 2011. Toyota president Akio Toyoda: $1.3m salary and $280,000 bonus.

More than one in two Australians believe that taxi services are deteriorating, according to the Sydney University. The University has just released the findings of its latest quarterly national transport survey. Only 14 percent of Australians saw an improvement in taxi services in their local areas over the last 12 months, with 79 percent of regular taxi users reporting that they were worse or unchanged. "We need to rethink regulation of the whole taxi sector, as there are clearly a lot of people who are unhappy with the level of taxi services in their state," says Professor David Hensher, Director of the University of Sydney's Institute of Transport and Logistics Studies (ITLS), who produce the ITLS- Transport Opinion Survey (TOPS). "One of the major issues in the sector is that the person who owns the registration plates isn't necessarily the person who drives the vehicles". "This means there are a lot of drivers who have just arrived in Australia desperate for a job who don't speak English or know their way around particularly well. Some of this feedback is anecdotal, but we're hearing enough of it to suggest it's fact." Victorians, South Australians and Queenslanders experienced lower confidence in taxi services, with only 14 percent, 13 percent and 11 percent of residents reporting that services had improved over the last 12 months. "With the current taxi inquiry in Melbourne, the survey has really reinforced to us just how negative the public perception of this industry is," says Professor Hensher, who with the University's Institute of Transport and Logistics Studies has been working with the Victorian government on ways to improve the service as part of the inquiry. "The reliability of the service, the attitude of drivers and the poor maintenance of vehicles are major concerns in the taxi industry across Australia." Confidence in public transport in consumers' local areas reached its lowest point in the nine quarterly surveys since the TOPS project commenced, with a short-term transport confidence index of 86, compared with the previous result of 98 from the fourth quarter of 2011. "There are a number of reasons for this, including the recent state government changes in NSW and Victoria. These have produced higher expectations for change in transport. While there have been some changes, they are not as great as consumers had hoped," says Professor Hensher. The survey also reinforced feedback from last quarter that suggests consumers would prefer funding to concentrate on improving transport within cities rather than between them.

BMW launches a driverless running trainer, Subaru reveals a self-cleaning car. Sunday was the biggest day so far this year for announcements of ground-breaking car developments. And it was April 1 of course.Leading off the Australian April Fool's Day spoofs was Skoda announcing a 'ground-breaking sponsorship deal with Sydney Harbour bridge - lauded by NSW Roads & Maritime Services as the 'future of road management solutions' - that will see the Aussie flags at the peak replaced by Skoda ones, put the Czech brand's winged-arrow logo in neon lights on the side.The deal also saves bridge-climbers the effort of climbing to the top by driving them there in Skoda Yeti 4WDs, and offers toll-free status for any Skodas that cross the bridge... Mini announced that April 1 will see the addition of a compact luxury caravan and roof-top tent to its product range. "A sumptuously appointed caravan with two sleeping bays and a roof-top tent (also designed for two) in the classic John Cooper Works colour scheme will whet the appetite for do-it-yourself summer holidays peppered with spur-of-the-moment detours along the way," Mini said. The Cowley caravan boasts two sleeping berths, a twin-burner gas-stove, a water tank with pump and dish-washing facility, a solar module to charge the on-board battery and a 230-volt power connection to supply the refrigerator, TV/DVD and hi-fi stereo system. For cars like the John Cooper Works top sports models where a trailer coupling is not an option, the Swindon roof-top tent can be fitted easily to the roof of a MINI, MINI Clubman or MINI Countryman, and likewise offers sleeping space for two people. All of which makes those stressful last-minute searches for accommodation "so last holiday".As an official sponsor of London 2012, BMW has been inspired to develop a new technology helping customers to boost their fitness in the run up to the Games. The new driverless Running Coach feature uses a combination of ConnectedDrive technologies and surround view cameras to enable the car to follow the runner, at a safe distance, while pounding the pavement. To help with motivation, integrated exterior speakers play encouraging words while the Lock Out Logistics feature makes sure that any distance set is completed without cheating. Alvin Alaff, Head of Futile Innovations at BMW's renowned Forschungs und Innovationszentrum, said "It's a car gym but not as we know it."Subaru is set to hose down water restrictions with the launch of the world's first self-cleaning car, with patented AF Technology demonstrated on the launch video. To clean the car in an instant, the driver simply has to press a button on the key fob while outside the vehicle, without any danger of getting wet. Subaru's Professor Ai Lai, who led the team, reveals: "Nanogenerators convert mechanical energy available in the environment into electrical energy, activating safe low-voltage electrical currents on the car's outer body surface. These currents flow in precise, overlapping patterns to disturb and dissolve micro-attachments on the car's metalwork, such as dirt and dust."