Articles by Chris Riley

I remember the `Wow' that escaped my lips when I laid eyes on this car for the first time overseas in Wales.Driving the Evoque months later in Sydney it still had the same effect on me and I'm not on my Pat Malone. Whatever else you want to say about the baby Rangey, it's certainly an attention getter.Not everyone likes the look though. Our office courier prefers the squarer look of the Freelander, but Alan strikes me as a conservative kind of bloke. Each to his own.THE COSTPriced from $49,995 the Evoque comes in three and five-door guise, two and four-wheel drive, with a choice of diesel or petrol engines. Our test vehicle the three-door, all-wheel drive petrol Prestige SI4 auto, is priced frm $77,395 but a few extras brought the grand total cost at the time of testing to $98,759.THE ENGINEIt's a 2.0-litre turbocharged four cylinder engine that delivers 177kW of power and 340Nm of torque. This is the same engine that powers the just released four cylinder Falcon, but in a slightly different state of tune.It's hooked up to a six-speed Japanese auto with paddle shifts (note there's no shifter lever as such). As with other Jags and Rangies initial gear selection is performed via a space saving rotary knob.PERFORMANCE0-100km/h takes 7.6 secs, top speed is 217km/h and fuel consumption is rated at 8.7 litres/100km (we were getting 10.1). We're still not completely sold on this engine. It's still a little slow to respond sometimes and makes some odd noises on occasion.But generally it provides lively performance and relatively good fuel economy. The electric steering is good with plenty of feedback, but perhaps not as good as BMW's variable ratio steering.OFF ROADYes. Despite its manic urban appeal you can still take yourself seriously off road in this car. Not that most owners would even consider the possibility. It actually has 12mm more ground clearance than the Freelander on which is is based.THREE OR FIVE?The more practical five door costs $1500 less. The roof line is actually 30mm higher than the coupe, but you wouldn't pick it unless the two were side by side.BACK SEATThere's plenty of room back there but getting accessing it can be challenging. The front seats slide forward electrically but they are oh so slow to do so. The resulting opening is okay but still requires some athletic ability to negotiate the opening.PRESTIGEThis model represents the ultimate in Range Rover luxury. It also includes all the latest safety gear, but sadly scores only four stars in crash tests. Comes with 19 inch alloys, xenon/LED lights, and a 380 watt, 11-speaker sound system.The finish inside is first rate with a two tone colour scheme that featuring premium twin-stitched leather and real wood and metal finishes. There's still plenty of options to chose from, like the Prestige tech pack for $5900 that includes such things as satnav, front parking sensors, a reversing camera and power operated tailgate.VERDICTYou know you want to. Goes as well as it looks. This car has way more character than a BMW and we suspect that Land Rover is going to have trouble keeping up with demand.

Believe it or not this year marks the 40th anniversary of the Honda Civic. More than 20 million Civics have been sold world-wide since production began in Japan back in 1972.Over 200,000 of those cars have found homes in Australia where it sought after by young drivers, with its reputation for being sporty, reliable and economical. A couple of years ago the Civic actually morphed into two cars but both kept the same name: a European designed and built hatch and Japanese produced sedan (although the sedan actually comes out of Thailand).Our test car, the Civic Sport sedan, which was released earlier this year, is now in its ninth generation.The Civic has evolved into a large small car over the years, with comfortable accommodation for four adults, along with a good-sized boot (seats up to five). At a pinch it's big enough to use as the family car but you could run out room when the holidays roll around. It's easy to get in and out of and easy to drive and park, with a 50-litre fuel tank that takes standard unleaded fuel.At $27,990 it's a whopping $7000 more than the standard VTi-L. The badge suggests something far more exciting than the standard fare, but if it's there we missed it.For starters the fact you can't get a manual is going to rule it out for many, especially the "doof-doof" boys. Bluetooth with audio streaming and steering wheel phone and audio controls are standard, with AUX and USB ports. For the extra dosh the Sport gets the auto ($2300 option otherwise), leather, fog lights, 17 inch alloys and a sunroof  but that's the extent of it.The Sport gets a 2.0-litre engine instead of a 1.8, with an output pf 114 instead of 104kW and 190 instead of 174Nm of torque. Both are single cam jobs but the jump in power is really not that great and not much of a drawcard (surely it's the primary reason for buying a sporty model?).You can get the VTi-L as a manual or automatic, but the Sport comes only with the five-speed auto  albeit with paddle shifts. The car goes well enough and dropping the transmission into sport mode elicits a more aggressive response, but you won't want to leave it there for long because the engine races and is unable to settle.It lacks low down torque and in typical Honda fashion doesn't really get going until you have around 4500 revs on the dial where its more responsive. There's plenty of grip and it sits nice and flat on the road with a low centre of gravity that gives the car a real "planted" feel.Fuel consumption is rated at 7.5 litres/100km (we were getting 8.5) and the car has a full 5-star safety rating with all the latest safety gear.We like the big digital speedo. The dash is divided into upper and lower tiers, with controls grouped according to function. Despite the leather upholstery it still has that overly plastic insubstantial feel that many Hondas seem to have.It sits on 17 inch alloys with a temporary spare. The rear looks like a lift from the Benz C-Class. There's no sign of satnav, no climate air, no power seat adjustment, no lumbar adjustment for driver's seat, no cool LEDs, no rear spoiler, no body kit and certainly no dual exhaust outlets.

Sometimes things just seem ... odd. Like when Mercedes-Benz trotted out the incredibly exclusive C63 AMG Black Series coupe -- and it was white.VALUEOnly 32 of the C63 Black Series cars are being imported to Australia plus another three for our Kiwi cousins in New Zealand. They're priced at $245,000 apiece but unfortunately they've all been sold, such is the demand for this unique motor car.It's the third in a string of Black series models to be offered by Benz in Australia and follows on the heels of the CLK 63 AMG Black Series in 2008 (40 units for Australia/NZ) and the awesome SL 65 AMG Black Series in 2009 (7 units for Australia/NZ).Each of C63 Black Series comes with a certificate of authenticity, along with a letter of provenance signed by Mercedes-Benz Australia/Pacific verifying the limited edition status of the vehicle.TECHNOLOGYThe highlight of the car is a killer 6.2-litre V8 that produces 380kW and 620Nm of torque  an increase of 44kW and 20Nm respectively compared with a standard C63.The V8 is hooked up to a 7-speed AMG Speedshift MCT wet clutch transmission, with a rear diff lock and 50 per cent larger oil cooler.DRIVINGThe dash from 0-100km/h takes just 4.2 seconds (or 3.9 secs with special tyres fitted)  just a tenth slower than the incredible SLS. It has a top speed of 300km/h.DESIGNInterestingly the coupe can be ordered as a two or four-seater, depending on your fancy and is equipped with flashy red seat belts. Most customers have ordered the two seat version. The car is visually different too, with a wider track front and rear and a secondary front spoiler with weird looking cooling fins called `flics' attached at either side.It rides on special 19 inch alloys fitted with 255/35 front and 285/30 Dunlop rubber. A large adjustable rear wing takes pride of place on the rear deck and can be manually tilted four degrees to provide greater downforce for track work. Although all the cars have been sold Benz reveals it is hoping to get hold of another dozen.VERDICTAfter driving the amazing Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Gullwing, nothing is ever going to really measure up. But the Black Series comes close. As fantastic as it might be, however, we can't tell you very much about its performance, not after a just one lap of the Albert Park circuit, with James Brock calling the shots.Just as we were getting started it was over (it was one lap more than most people got to complete though).Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG coupePrice: From $169,700 (including Performance Pack) plus on-road costsWarranty: 3 years/100,000kmEngine: 6.2-litre V8 petrolOutputs: 380kW/620NmDimensions: 4707mm (L), 1795mm (w), 1391mm (h)Weight: 1730kgTransmission: Seven-speed manual automatic, rear-wheel driveEconomy: 12.1 litres per 100km

We turn the spotlight on the car world's newest and brightest stars as we ask the questions to which you want the answers. But there's only one question that really needs answering -- would you buy one?Kia's big SUV with seven seats, a petrol V6 but no four-wheel drive. Given that the vast majority of SUV buyers never go off road, who needs it? Removing four-wheel drive reduces the price and for many people - that's the main thing.The V6 replaces the previous 2.4-litre four cylinder petrol model. This one will set you back $36,990 before on-road costs - only $500 more than the four. The equivalent diesel model will cost you $3000 more, but you also get four-wheel drive for this price.Sorento and the Hyundai's Santa Fe share the same under carriage, so you'd have to look at Santa Fe before anything else. But the real enemy is Holden's Captiva which offers a diesel for around the same price. After that you could perhaps visit the Ssangyong Rexton which is an underrated vehicle.3.5-litre V6 delivers 204kW of power at 6300 revs and 335Nm of torque at 5000 revs. It's paired with Kia's beat new six-speed auto which allows you to change gears manually, but really there's no need.Like a scalded cat. We love the diesel version of this car, but the V6 is a force to be reckoned with. Punchy off the line and responsive to the throttle at all other times.With a 70-litre tank it is rated at 10.0 litres/100km. In practice however we were getting 11.9.Gets three stars from the Government's Green Vehicle Guide (Prius scores five). Produces 239g of CO2 per kilometre.You bet. Five stars from Australian NCAP. Comes with six airbags and a full complement of safety systems including electronic stability control.Doesn't get leather but we're not big fans of leather anyway. The cloth seats and upholstery are comfortable. Leather wrapped steering wheel and gear shift knob.Very easy to drive. Good vision all round. Responsive to the throttle. Instruments are big and easy to use. Bluetooth and an iPod connection are standard which makes life easy.Everything you need and nothing you don't. Dual zone temperature controlled airconditioning is standard with second and third row vents, but third row passengers miss out on fan controls.We'd be sorely tempted. Sorento was the fist of Kia's new look vehicles. It still looks good and goes extremely well. There's no real downside that we can see.

It's been over 20 years since Mazda released the first MX-5 and it's still going strong. Now in its 4th generation, the designers have remained true to the car's original DNA.Sadly though it has suffered from price creep over the years, with the entry level model now $44,265 before on-roads. Our test vehicle, the hard topped sports coupe, is $49,805 putting it perilously close to the $50K mark.Of course Mazda would argue and we would agree that you get a lot more for your dollar these days. But it's still a heck of a long, long way from the $29,550 that the car kicked off at in 1989.These days you get a high revving 2.0-litre DOHC petrol engine that produces 118kW of power and 188Nm of torque, together with a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic with paddle shifts. That's not much power you might say and you'd be right, but it's not all about power  it's the power to weight ratio and tidy dynamics of the car that are most important.The manual is rated at 8.1 litres/100km, same as the auto.MX-5 gets four out of five stars in crash tests. That's not bad considering its size but it could be better (suffice to say we feel a lot safer in one these days). The roadster is fitted with driver and passenger front and side airbags, dynamic stability and traction control systems, as well as anti-lock brakes. The manual also scores a limited slip rear diff.The coupe allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds, with an electric folding hardtop that opens or closes at the touch of a button in just 12 seconds. The hard shell makes it more secure and also a lot quieter inside the cabin.The current model dates back to 2009, but you may still find a few special editions kicking around with Bilstein suspension (200 were released priced from $47,200). The sports coupe adds Recaro seats and a set of great looking 17 inch BBS alloys over the standard model. Quality 200 watt Bose audio system is fitted, with an AUX input for iPods  but the six-stacker CD is overkill these days.Bluetooth for one thing and there's no trip computer to help you keep track of fuel consumption.Great fun. The drive is engaging and will have you searching for winding roads where the car can stretch its legs. The steering is direct, the clutch action light and the short shifting close ratio box is child's play to use.Keep it revving to get the best out of it. Unfortunately the Recaros are a bit narrow for mature backsides (we're working on that) because the side bolsters press into your thighs and tend to become uncomfortable after a while. Not a great range of seat or wheel adjustment either (tilt only).

Toyota's perennial Camry has been the best selling medium sized car in Australia for 18 straight years. But like other Toyotas it has come under increasing pressure, particularly the Koreans who have delivered some outstanding competition in the past year or so. Toyota has tried to get back to basics with the new, seventh generation Camry.The emphasis is on quality, reliability and durability, not to mention an effort to make the car more fun to drive. It goes on sale this month but you'll have to wait until early next year for a new hybrid, petrol-electric version.ENGINEThe 2.4 has been replaced by a larger, mor powerful 2.5-litre four cylinder petrol engine with 0-100km/h taking 9.3 seconds. It's technically more advanced with dual VVTi but still misses out on the benefits of direct injection.Power is up 13 per cent to 133kW and torque has increased by six per cent to 231Nm in the Altise, with slightly more output in Atara models which feature a free-flowing dual exhaust system.ECONOMYDespite the power increase new Camry uses less fuel, down 11 per cent to from 8.9 to 7.8 litres/100km. We saw between 9.1 and 10.8 litres/100km during the launch. Engine emissions have been reduced 25g to 183g/km.CHANGESIt's the same physical size but weighs 35kg less. The line up consists of four models starting with the Altise followed by the Atara S, Atara SX and Atara SL. Altise looks different from the other three, with a different grille and apron and is targeted at the price conscious fleet market.The more expensive Atara models feature a mesh grille and three-piece apron and are aimed at the private buyer. S replaces Ateva, SX replaces Sportivo and SL replaces top of the line Grande.There's no manual and the five-speed auto has been replaced by a six-speed with steering wheel mounted shift paddles in higher grade models. Steering is now all electric, with a firmer, heavier feel that stays centred without the need for constant driver input. It also adds weight in corners to help prevent over correction. The traditional handbrake has been replaced with a foot operated brake.NEW STUFFThe top of the line model comes with high beam that dips the lights automatically. It is also equipped with a blind spot warning system and adds a DAB+ digital radio.SAFETYHasn't been crashed tested yet but has been designed to receive five stars. Comes with seven airbags including a driver knee bag and full complement of safety aids. A reversing camera remains a $500 option on the entry Altise - standard with the rest.HOW MUCH?You get all this for the same starting price of $30,490, with a four year-warranty that includes fixed price servicing at $130 a pop for five services. Atara S is $33,490, Atara SX is $35,990 and Atara SL is $39,990.THE DRIVEIt has a solid, big car feel. Nice and smooth and quiet. Sits nicely on the road and corners flat with plenty of grip. Local suspension tuning and the recalibrated steering have been designed to produce a more engaging drive.Drop a wheel in the dirt and the stability system quickly sorts it out. Conversation is easy even on coarse bitumen and the car we drove had adjustable lumbar support. Both the i45/Optima and Accord Euro deliver more power, but 133kW is more than adequate for the job, especially in combo with the smooth-changing six-speed tranny. There's a 15mm bigger gap between seats and rear passengers benefit from 46mm more legroom.

We turn the spotlight on the car world's newest and brightest stars as we ask the questions to which you want the answers.But there's only one question that really needs answering -- would you buy one?The CX-5 is a replacement for the sporty CX-7 SUV. It's a softroader that seats five, available in two and all-wheel drive with either a petrol or turbodiesel engine. It's also the first Mazda to get the full gammut of Mazda's Skyactiv fuel saving technology.Prices range from $27,800 to $48,190. This particular one is $45,190 which includes an auto and all-wheel drive, plus the optional $1990 tech pack fitted. A diesel will cost you $3000 more than the equivalent petrol model.Take your pick. There's plenty of competition in the medium off road segment inlcuding the new Ford Kuga, Jeep's new Compass, the Subaru Forester  to name a few.This one gets a 2.0-litre petrol engine that in all wheel drive guise puts out 113kW of power and 198Nm of torque at 4000 revs. It's mated to a six-speed auto with manual shift capability.Not as well as the diesel, that's for sure. The petrol model has been roundly criticised for its lack of performance, especially its slow throttle response. You have to really thrash it to get it moving and that of course is going to eat into your fuel economy.Mazda is claiming best in class economy with a figure of 6.9 litres/100km. We chalked up just over 500km at a rate of 7.9 litres/100km, most of them freeway kilometres.Gets four out of five stars from the Govt's Green Vehicle Guide (Prius is the benchmark with five stars).Hasn't been crash tested yet but every model across the range comes standard with the highest level of safety features including six airbags, stability control, anti-lock brakes with electronic brake force distribution plus a reversing camera.Boxy design provides plenty of head and legroom, with comfortable accommodation for four adults. Quiet inside apart from the intrusion of tyre noise on coarse bitumen.Easy peasy. Big computer screen. Highish driving position provides good vision. Steering feels direct and responsive. Auto has annoying kick down. Optional blind spot awareness system worth a look.Finish good. Offers plenty of utility and you get plenty of kit for your money. Bluetooth standard, with steering wheel phone and audio controls.A well equipped car for the money but we'd recommend driving both the diesel and petrol models before making a decision.

The arrival of the 132kW tyro -- which Ford showed in a production ready version of the car at the Geneva motor show -- fills a performance gap in the Fiesta range. In Australia Ford hasn't offered a performance version of the Fiesta since the XR4 in 2008 (part of the previous generation). Not surprisingly customers have been clamouring for a new one ever since. And Ford says they won't be disappointed. "The car is a definite starter for Australia too in 2013 but at this stage its too early to put a specific time on it," a spokesman for Ford Australia said. "We think itll be a good opportunity to raise the ST profile locally as well also have the Focus ST on sale later this year." While the XR4's 2.0-litre engine produced 110kW the new ST's 1.6-litre turbocharged unit (it will be called ST here too) is good for 132kW.  With 240Nm of torque on tap it can sprint from 0-100km/h in under seven seconds and has a top speed of more than 220km/h. At the same time, the EcoBoost technology delivers a 20 per cent reduction in CO2 emissions compared with the previous ST.  Developed by Ford's Team RS, the new Fiesta ST delivers significant ride-and-handling improvements through the introduction of a specially tuned chassis that sits 15mm lower than the standard Fiesta; Ford's enhanced Torque Vectoring Control system; and three Electronic Stability Control modes.  The technologies were put to the test over 5000 kilometers of driving on Germany's Nurburgring Nordschleife. "We believe Ford customers will be blown away by the new Fiesta ST, and not only by the exhilarating performance but by the styling and specification, too," said Jost Capito, Ford's director of Global Performance Vehicles. "This dynamic new hot-hatch is undoubtedly our best Fiesta ST to date," The high-contrast interior features unprecedented levels of equipment and specification to suit the sporting driver, with standard Recaro sports seats for the first time. It also will be equipped with MyKey, which allows owners to limit performance and ensure activation of safety features for when less-experienced drivers use the vehicle; and SYNC, Ford's voice-activated in-car connectivity system. A new bold and dynamic exterior design drives home the high performance message and features the latest Ford design signatures including a large trapezoidal grille.

We turn the spotlight on the Renault Megane Renaultsport 250 Cup and ask the questions to which you want the answers. But there's only one question that really needs answering -- would you buy one?What is it?Renault's feisty 2.0-litre hot hatch. If you fancy an EVO or STI, do yourself a favour and have a good, long hard look at one of these. It's that good (without qualification).How much?The Megane Renault Sport 250 Cup is priced from $41,990 while the harder edged Trophee version is $46,990.What are competitors?Mitsubishi's Lancer Ralliart and of course Sooby's evergreen WRX, both of which are around the same price (avantgarde styling might put conservative punters off)What's under the bonnet?Motivation comes from a 2.0-litre turbocharged four cylidner engine that pumps out 184kW at 5500 revs and 340Nm at 3000 revs. 80 per cent of torque is available from 1900 revs. Drive is through a six-speed manual box, with a limited slip diff and Brembo stoppers.How does it go?0-100km/h in 6.1 secs. Don't fall into the trap of arguing this has got more power than that. This has got all the get up and go you need and is one of the finest handling fronties you'll ever experience. With 80 per cent of the torque available from 1900 revs, acceleration is smooth and responsive thanks to the twin scroll turbocharger and continuously variable intake valve timing.Is it economical?Takes premium unleaded. Rated at 8.7 litres/100km (bog standard car 8.2). We clocked up 400km at a rate of 9.0 litres/100km (even with a bit of twisty stuff thrown in).Is it green?Surprisingly, it gets 3.5 out of 5 stars from the Govt's Green Guide, producing 201g/km of CO2.Is it safe?You bet. Scores five out of five in crash tests.Is it comfortable?Fits like a glove. Short shifting manual is forward mounted and falls easily to hand. Features an independent steering axis layout at the front where the suspension and steering functions have been separated to ensure a particularly high standard of handling and traction performance.What's it like to drive?Let's just say it will put a smile on your dial. Not a lot of rear vision, but you're going to be more worried about what's in front rather than behind. Ride quality depends on the surface, but it remains suprisingly settled on bumpy country roads. Wicked turn of speed with incredible levels of grip  who needs all wheel drive?Is it value for money?For the price it's a steal. Only option metallic paint at $800. Pity it doesn't include satnav.Would we buy one?Show me where to sign. Bang for your buck, this rates up there with the best of them.

The more I see of the Skoda Yeti the more I like it. In many ways it feels like the original Subaru Forester, before it morphed into just another compact SUV. It is likely to appeal to the same kind of people too. The small Yeti off roader from Skoda is more of a jacked-up wagon than the current crop of compact SUVs.VALUEPrices start at $32,990 for the manual and $35,290 for the auto.TECHNOLOGYUntil now you have been able to get a front drive petrol or diesel all-wheel drive, but not petrol all wheel drive Yeti. The 112TSI with its 1.8-litre turbocharged petrol engine changes that and it's a beaut, especially the sporty manual. The 1.8-litre turbocharged petrol engine delivers varying amounts of power depending on the transmission attached. With the manual its 118kW at 5000 revs and with the auto 112kW at 6000 revs.Torque remains constant at 250Nm from 1500 revs. Although it is turbocharged, we like the fact it has a larger capacity than seems to be the current norm which conceivably means it is not under as much stress.You get a choice of six-speed manual or six-speed DSG manumatic style transmissions. The Octavia however with the same engine gets the seven-speed engine. It's got something to do with the car being developed originally for the Russian market (say what?)ECONOMY8.2 for the DSG and 8.4 litres/100km for the manual. We got 11.1 and 10.8 respectively on the launch, but we weren't exactly holding back.SEATINGRear seats are raised for a better view. The variable layout features three separate rear seats with adjustable backrests. The outer seats slide backwards and forwards. With the middle seat removed, the outer seats can be moved towards the centre. Or the seats can be folded and removed completely.SAFETYA full five out five stars for safety with seven airbags, stability control and a host of safety systems.DRIVINGLet's face it, not many people are going to take this car off road.  Sand and dirt roads are probably the limit, so the front drive version is worth consideration. Having said that the 112TSI comes specc'ed to the same level as the diesel, but costs $2500 less. The manual is slick and can be worked hard to deliver a sporty driving experience. While not as spirited the DSG also performs flawlessly. Easy to get in and out of. Comfortable and easy to drive, with plenty of zip and a reasonable amount of luggage space.Bluetooth is standard along with a trip computer, auto lights and wipers, roof rails and 16-inch alloys. Nice to see a full size spare is standard.VERDICTGreat little car that should do very well for Skoda. Maybe it's the one that will finally put the company on the map in Australia (we think so).Skoda Yeti 112TSIPrice: from $32,990 (manual); $35,290 (auto)Engine: 4 Cylinder, 1.8 LitreThirst: 8.4L/100km man; 8.2L/100km DSGTransmission: Manual 6 speed; 6-speed DSGOutputs: 118KW/250NmCO2: 197g/km manual; 194g/km DSGWarranty: 3 yearsBody: 5-door SUVDimensions: (L) 4223mm, (W) 1793mm, (H) 1691mm, (WB) 2578Tyres: 16inch  Alloy 215/60 R16