Articles by Derek Ogden

Is the tribe becoming too big for the faithful family sedan but cannot consign it to the remainder section? Look no further than the Subaru Liberty Exiga seven-seater wagon.Based on the Liberty platform, the Exiga started life as a six-seater wagon. Now, due to popular demand says the maker Subaru, an extra place has been set for someone in the 2013 Model Year vehicle, which went on sale in July.VALUEThe seven-seater comes in two models – the Liberty Exiga 2.5i, which includes a DVD, and the top spec Liberty Exiga 2.5i Premium (our test vehicle), which adds leather trim, satellite navigation, reversing camera, Bluetooth compatibility, eight-way electric driver and front passenger seats, and a new 17-inch alloy wheel design and new-look door mirrors. The former is priced from $37,990, the latter costs from $42,490, both plus on-road costs.With a model upgrade midway through 2012 the entry-level Exiga added a reversing camera plus dusk sensing headlights and steering wheel Bluetooth controls, voice command, audio streaming, USB connectivity and AUX jack. Dusk sensing headlights were also added to the MY12 Premium model.Liberty Exiga 2.5i’s factory-fitted 4.3-inch LCD screen displays audio information and reversing camera images. A saving grace on long drawn-out journeys is the roof-mounted, fold-down remote-control DVD system with infra-red wireless headphones which can keep even the most tiresome travellers in the two rows of rear seats occupied.TECHNOLOGYThe wagon is powered by Subaru’s four-cylinder 2.5-litre horizontally opposed boxer petrol engine producing 123kW of power at 5600 rpm and 229 Nm of torque at 4000 revs. Expect to get fuel consumption of 8.6 litres per 100 km, while emitting 202 grams of carbon dioxide every kilometre in the combined urban/highway cycle.DESIGNWith all seven seats occupied, there’s not much space in the back for two people’s luggage, let alone that for more than half a dozen. With the rear two rows of seats folded there’s a reasonably flat surface to take longer and more bulky items – even a street market marquee folded. Gone is the central storage compartment of the six-seater, but that’s understandable – you can’t expect to have everything.Designers, it seems, did not spend much time on the exterior, the Exiga having a boxy, old fashioned look. The high sides, however, do make for plenty of head room – 40 mm better than the Liberty – and good visibility all round for the driver.SAFETYLiberty Exiga has 16-inch solid disc brakes with aluminium callipers for weight savings of around 1 kg backed up by the latest anti-skid braking system with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and Brake Assist. However, step into the past with an old-fashioned foot operated parking brake. Vehicle Dynamics Control, Subaru’s electronic stability program, is standard and the Exiga has a top five-star ANCAP crash rating for occupant safety and a three-star pedestrian rating. DRIVINGThere’s no arguing with the vehicle’s smooth operation, the new Subaru Lineartronic continuously variable transmission (CVT) seeing to that. An adaptive control helps select the optimum gear to suit driving style and road conditions. Driver demanded gearchanges within the CVT, at 100 milliseconds or less, are designed to be almost instantaneous to increase response.A six-speed manual mode can be engaged by tapping the gear lever across. The steering wheel paddles can then be used for manual shifting. If the speed remains unchanged, the transmission will move back to the Drive mode automatically.The tilt-and-rake adjustable steering column allows 40 mm of rake adjustment, while dual zone air-conditioning has been refined to reduce engine load and increase fuel efficiency, while double door seals and weather strips optimise window sealing and temperature insulation.VERDICTSubaru says comfort, noise, vibration and harshness were high on the designers’ list of priorities. Pity their colleagues did not attach the same importance to outward appearance. However, once you go past the dated ‘maxi taxi’ exterior the Liberty Exiga has much to offer, especially for the larger family, small sports team or groups of friends.

When it comes to the Chrysler 300, we’ve all heard the put-downs – Yank tank; Mafia staff car and so on. Yet the new model doesn’t deserve any of these jokes. Driving the two larger-than-life vehicles back to back illustrated a breadth of appeal rarely found in a big sedan.Now owned by Italian automobile giant Fiat, Chrysler is aiming to make a bigger dent downunder than before and the new 300 series large sedan was the first product range to burst out of brand new Melbourne headquarters onto the Australian market a couple of months ago.The cars are an eclectic lot, coming in versions from the 300 Limited, to the 300C, the 300C Luxury and the range-topping SRT8. Prices start at $43,000 for the petrol Limited, the diesel adds $5000, and top out at $66,000 for the Hemi V8 SRT 8.We experienced the 300C Luxury 3.0-litre V6 diesel and 300 SRT8 6.4-litre Hemi V8, fine examples from either end of the product spectrum.Thanks to advanced automotive technology, both models tested behaved like much smaller cars, making for a relaxed driving experience. For example, when parking, a reversing camera with guidelines and a park distance alarm system are on hand to take the measurements and tailor the right approach.The diesel takes advantage of Chrysler’s link to Fiat and comes from VM Motori in Cento, Italy, while the SRT 8 (for Street and Race Technology V8) pays homage to the US company’s well-documented Hemi history.The new V6 diesel has lost weight over its predecessor by means of aluminium cylinder heads, while twin overhead chain-driven camshafts have increased torque to 550 Nm between 1800 and 2000 rpm, and power to 176 kW at 4000rpm.The all-new 6.4-litre Hemi V8, one of the world’s most powerful naturally-aspirated V8s, punches out 347 kW at 6100 rpm. That’s 500 horsepower in muscle car terms, and this is most certainly a machine with muscle. It has 631 Nm of torque at a rather high 4150 rpm. Both engines are mated with a five-speed automatic transmission.An upgraded version of Chrysler’s multiple-displacement system now deactivates half the V8 engine’s cylinders over a wider range of operation, lowering fuel consumption from five to 20 per cent depending on driving conditions.As for fuel consumption, at the lower end of the scale the diesel got down to 7.5 litres per 100 kilometres on bouts of motorway driving, while the big petrol job slurped anything up to 29 litres per 100 kilometres in serious stop/start city travel. Oh, dear...A new electro-hydraulic power steering system on the 300C Luxury helps provide improved fuel efficiency and better steering capability. The SRT 8 calls on a fully hydraulic steering system.At night, HID Bi-xenon headlamps project three times the brightness of conventional headlights, while an adaptive system moves the beam from left to right in line with vehicle speed and steering wheel input, and is self levelling in keeping with crests and dips in the road.Inside the passenger cabin, under city-style driving conditions, it was hard to distinguish between the two motors, both producing quick-sharp response to pedal pressure accompanied by little more than a sweet engine hum.More light is let into the cabin by the addition of a quarter-light in the rear doors that, along with a lower belt line and thinner pillars, increases visibility by 15 per cent. The upper windscreen edge is 76mm higher providing improved visibility at traffic lights.The feel and grip of the four-spoke thick-rimmed steering wheel have been enhanced and comes standard with tilt/telescope adjustment for driving comfort. The wheel incorporates cruise control and adaptive cruise control buttons on the front, audio controls on the rear.Information such as satellite navigation, with the one of the clearest 3-D maps around, and vehicle and audio systems, is projected onto a 8.4-inch touch screen on the central dashboard. Of automotive Imax proportions, it is the largest in the market segment. However, the whole thing is let down badly by reflection all but wiping this info out in bright sunlight.     Luxury by name, luxury by nature, expansive seats are aimed at carrying wide-backed corpulent corporates comfortably. There are also acres of legroom back and front, which make the 300s highly attractive to the limo business, and a boot big enough to take several sets of golf clubs, or a generous load of luggage.On the other hand, The Chrysler SRT 8 is fitted with body hugging sports seats, a boon during spirited driving, and sports a discreet boot.-mounted spoiler to hint at the car’s character, while twin exhaust tailpipes make no bones about the potential power under the bonnet.   There’s no ignoring the fact you’re in the SRT 8, with ‘Chrysler’ being etched into the door sills and SRT on the tacho dial and seat backs. The analogue clock, mounted at the centre of the dashboard, a la Bentley, also carries the maker’s name and is a classy cap doff to the past. The Chrysler 300 already has the top rating from the US Insurance Institute for Highway Safety in front, side, rollover and rear crash tests safely tucked under its arm.As well as Electronic Stability Control and Traction Control, standard safety features include full-length side curtain airbags, seat mounted side thorax airbags, driver’s knee airbag duel front seat belt pretensioners, front reactive head restraints.Disc brakes all round have ABS and are augmented by Brake Assist, Ready Alert Braking and Rain Brake Support, the last gently applying brakes to dry out the discs when the wipers are working.Hill Start Assist automatically applies the brakes on inclines to prevent the vehicle rolling backwards. Keyless entry to the car is gained by the holder of the fob merely tugging the door handle. Starting the engine is by means of a dash-mounted button when the foot brake is applied.On the launch of the 300 a couple of months ago the media got to drive the cars on Phillip Island on a sodden racetrack. I recall the rear-wheel drive V8 showed its potential particularly when powering out of corners, wheels spinning freely, the tail wagging enthusiastically.Easing off, the electronic stability control was quick to bring things back in order. It’s just as impressive in day-to-day motoring.Plant the foot and the hemi piped up with a fine deep-throated note perfectly attuned to the car’s sporting nature.Suspension bushes and a rear stabiliser bar help iron out some road harshness over bumps but 20-inch aluminium wheels, fitted with low profile tyres, pick up even minor blemishes in the bitumen.

Twin peaks … the M6 coupe and convertible stand at the summit of the BMW range. It may be the race that stops the nation but there is no way the running of the Melbourne Cup this month was going to stall BMW trotting out its all-new M6 coupe and convertible.The high-performance pair undoubtedly deserve their positions at the head of the BMW field with good looks backed by ground-breaking automotive technology. But are they sprinters or stayers? The answer is both.On the market at $292,500 for the coupe and $308,500 the convertible, plus on-road costs, the pair appeal to a limited audience, with BMW predicting sales of between 20 and 30 cars before the end of the year. The features list includes the ubiquitous BMW iDrive, which is linked to a professional satellite navigation system with a 10.2-inch wide-screen set-up. Also included are a plethora of multi-functions found in luxury vehicles these days. One carp is the odometer positioned low on the instrument cluster, making it difficult for a smaller person to read easily. There’s no such problem with the head-up display of info on the windscreen. Capping off the extensive crop of ‘fruit’ are features such as park distance control, cruise control with braking function, rear-view camera, high beam assist, lane change and departure warning, surround view with top view and side view, plus optional BMW night vision with pedestrian recognition.Thanks to BMW efficient dynamics, the M6 coupe is capable of reaching 100 km/h from rest in 4.2 seconds; the convertible is claimed to do the same in 4.3 seconds. As for staying power, despite a 10 per cent increase in engine output to 412 kW and 30 per cent boost in top torque to 680 Nm, fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions have been cut by 30 per cent, compared with the cars they replace.The latter pair are put at 9.9 litres per 100 km and 232 grams per kilometre on the combined urban/highway cycle for the coupe and 10.3 litres per 100 km and 239 grams per kilometre the convertible. The ‘magic pudding’ recipe turns out to be a blend of a high-revving 4.4-litre V8 engine with M twinpower turbo technology, which all but cuts out turbo lag, connected to a seven-speed M double clutch transmission with BMW’s drivelogic and active M differential.The double clutch, essentially two gearboxes in one, ensures seamless shifts, producing rapid acceleration. Drivelogic, in full automatic or manual mode, offers three shift programmes – comfort, sport and sport+ – activated at the touch of a button. There’s launch control for optimum acceleration off the mark, low speed assistance and engine start/stop technology for fuel efficiency in town traffic.       Added to the mix are M tuned chassis technology, close to 50:50 weight distribution and high-end aerodynamics. The active M differential, with its variable locking ability between the rear wheels, ensures there’s optimum traction no matter the state of the road and weather conditions, or when accelerating sharply out of corners. Suspension damper forces are variable in three stages to suit driving conditions or wishes of the driver. Servotronic speed sensitive steering can also be set up to one of three settings to suit the driver.The centre of gravity of the coupe has been lowered compared to its predecessor by means of a carbon fibre roof, which is much lighter than metal version, while the boot lids, and in the case of the convertible, the roof cover are made from glass-fibre composite material.While four sports-style seats are on offer, the coupe and convertible are basically 2+2s, with limited leg room in the rear. There are no such limitations up front with super supportive seats stabilising occupants during spirited driving.A meaty M leather steering wheel incorporates multifunction buttons and fixed gearshift paddles, helping the driver maintain complete control of the vehicle. Cabin turbulence in the convertible with the roof down is not intrusive and with the cover closed produces far-from-claustrophobic conditions.  Load capacity of the coupe is put at 460 litres, while the convertible can carry 300 litres of luggage with the roof stowed and an extra 50 litres with it up. The roof can be raised or lowered remotely via a button on the key – 19 seconds to open, 24 seconds to close – or with a button on the centre console.There’s the suite of active safety features usually found in BMWs, consisting of dynamic stability control which calls on ABS anti-skid braking with cornering brake control, dynamic brake control, brake assist, brake drying function and start-off assist.The undoubted thoroughbreds were launched in south-east Queensland with the Big Day Out on wheels parading out of Brisbane city centre, through the suburbs, up and around Mount Nebo, through the Samford Valley and on to Lakeside Raceway.The steep twists and turns of the hilly terrain showed off the pair’s braking ability to its best advantage, the 400 mm ventilated discs up front and 396 mm versions at the rear keeping the big cars – close to two tonnes apiece – on the straight and narrow, so to speak.On the countless corners during track work at the historic raceway it was a case of brake, point, gun; brake, point, gun, the cars seemingly capable of continuing like this without suffering in performance until darkness fell and we all went home to tea.On the limit, BMW’s array of active safety features snapped the vehicles sharply to attention . . . the drivers also. If piloting a high-performance vehicle with the unrelenting concentration required can be a pleasant experience, this was one.As one BMW staff member commented: “Looks count in this class of vehicle.” There’s no argument on that score with the M6 coupe and cabriolet.

BMW, the Bavarian automobile giant, has squeezed better performance and fuel economy out of its Z4 sports coupe range while keeping the purchase price down. How?VALUEA shift from a six to a turbocharged four-cylinder engine has imbued the new top-of-the-class Z4 sDrive28i, for example, with the combination of outstanding performance at a retail price below $90,000. Not only that, this has the Z4 sDrive28i ducking under the federal government’s fuel efficient luxury car tax threshold, with the maker offering the car at a retail price of $89,400, compared with $98,700 for its predecessor, the Z4 sDrive30i.The control knob for iDrive, the BMW multi-media information system that caused so much driver angst when it first appeared, is placed in its customary spot on the centre console and, together with an 8.8-inch display screen provides easy access (these days) to many of the car’s systems including satellite navigation and audio files.The audio system itself consists of 11 speakers, a 245W digital amplifier with equaliser and USB interface enabling connection of an MP3 player, iPod or USB memory stick via the USB interface Voice Control System.TECHNOLOGYThe 180 kW TwinPower Turbo Z4 sDrive28i races from zero to 100 km/h in just 5.7 seconds, 0.1 seconds quicker than the naturally aspirated Z4 sDrive30i, thanks to a 13 per cent increase in torque from 310 to 350 Nm. Fuel consumption is cut by 21 per cent, from 8.5 litres per 100 kilometres to 6.7 litres on the combined urban / highway cycle.In addition to the standard six-speed manual transmission, the Z4 sDrive20i and Z4 sDrive28i are also available with the new eight--speed Sport Automatic Transmission, which includes one-direction gearshift paddles utilising M shift logic. This is unique in the class. During my time with this Z4 sDrive 28i the digital readout rated us at an average of 5 litres/100km on the motorway and 11.9 in and around town.DESIGNThe simple yet extensive instrument layout includes circular speedometer and rev counter, plus tank level and oil temperature gauges, while the plain(ish) interior is set off by brushed aluminium highlights. The standard two seats are electrically adjustable with memory function for driver’s side and heating for driver and passenger seats. Upholstery is Kansas leather with sun reflective technology that prevents it getting overheated in direct sunlight.The steering wheel is wrapped in leather, again with sun reflective properties, and includes multifunction buttons including gearshift paddles. The character of the car can be changed in 20 seconds via the retractable two-piece lightweight metal roof, which gives the car coupe status when raised, yet can be lowered automatically at speeds up to 40 km/h for conversion to a roadster.When stowed, the drop-top leaves 180 litres of luggage space in the boot. This expands to 310 litres when the roof is raised. A through-loading hatch with integrated transport bag will take long items.  One nice thing about the test car was the auto dimming headlights on the approach of another vehicle in front. Guilt free, no scrambling for the dip switch here.DRIVINGDynamic Drive Control is another of the German marque’s ways of keeping the driver interested. Operated by a switch on the centre console it offers three distinct driving modes – Comfort, Sport and Sport+ - in which suspension damper forces can be varied as well as the progressive effect of the accelerator pedal, the engine response, power steering and Dynamic Stability Control.Comfort is the default mode, with Sport summoning more direct steering and throttle response, while Sport+ brings in Dynamic Traction Control function on the DSC, allowing slight slip on the drive wheels, letting the more adventurous (and self-assured) driver take a bend in a controlled drift, all with an enhanced engine note.  Choosing between drive modes really does alter the Z4’s character – shifting from ‘cruisey’ coupe to ripper roadster, all at the press of a single rocker switch.VERDICTThe Z4 sDrive 28i caters admirably for those wanting a two-seater sports coupe experience with the added appeal of top-down motoring if desired. And with the move to four-cylinder turbo power, performance is far from sacrificed at the altar excessive fuel consumption.BMW Z4sDrive 28i RoadsterPrice: from $89,400Warranty: 3 years/unlimted kmSafety rating: 4-star ANCAPEngine: 2.0-litre 4-cyl 180kW/350NmTransmission: 6-speed manual; 8-speed auto; RWDBody: 4239mm (L); 1790mm (w); 1291mm (h)Weight: 1400kgThirst: 6.8/100km; 159g/km Co2

Running on ‘the smell of an oily rag’, once an attempt at automotive humour, is no longer a joke when talking about diesel-powered cars. The new BMW 318d, for example, a diesel fuelled sedan, takes up the fuel economy battle to the hybrids.At $56,400, the entry-level 318d limbos under the luxury car tax threshold bar with little to spare but can be tipped over into the higher bracket by a long list of cost options.Standard features include dual-zone climate control, cruise control with brake function, power-operated windows and exterior mirrors, keyless engine start/stop, remote locking with boot open button, Multifunction steering wheel, automatic lights and windscreen wipers, rear Park Distance Control, Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free mobile phone use and MP3 compatible CD audio systems with Auxiliary and USB inputs.Putting the BMW 318d in the ring with such petrol/electric hybrids is a four-cylinder TwinPower turbo-diesel engine that weighs in with a peak power output of 105 kW and maximum 320 Nm of torque. Fuel consumption is just 4.5 litres per 100km on the combined urban/highway cycle.During our week with the new BMW 3 Series entry-level model we managed to get fuel consumption down to just 3.6 litres per hundred kilometres on the motorway and 6.1 in town, which goes a long way to matching petrol/electric hybrids.However, diesels create significantly more CO2 than petrol/electric hybrids. As an example the BMW 318d has a Green Vehicle Guide rating of 118 grams per kilometre, compared with the Toyota Prius at 89 grams. Helping to achieve such low fuel consumption figures in the BMW 318d sedan is a cutting edge eight-speed automatic transmission. All 3 Series models also now feature auto start/stop, as standard, automatically cutting the engine at traffic lights or in stationary traffic to save fuel.Further fuel saving measures include brake energy regeneration that has power for the vehicle electrical system being generated only during braking and overrun. The fitment of electric power steering, that only draws power when assistance is required in cornering, also helps reduce fuel usage.Drivers and passengers have the benefit of the new Driving Experience Control which in the BMW 318d sets the tone with three driving modes – Comfort, Sport, and Eco Pro – working on powertrain, steering, throttle and Dynamic Stability Control settings.Eco Pro, as well as altering throttle response and transmission shift points, keeps cabin heating and air-conditioning, optional heated seats and the exterior mirrors working at optimum efficiency, cutting fuel consumption by as much as 20 per cent. A fourth setting, Sport+, is available if the car is specified with Sport Line, Adaptive M Suspension or Variable Sports Steering option.On the outside, the BMW 318d has the looks of a well-cut business suit, the result of extensive wind tunnel testing, which also contributes to fuel economy with a co-efficient of friction of Cd 0.26. The car gets down to business with 16-inch alloy wheels.Inside, there’s more space than in the previous model and offers a high quality Sensatec man-made leather trim in beige or black. Focus is on the driver, with the cockpit layout being angled towards them by seven degrees to ensure controls are ergonomically positioned and fuel gauge, speedometer, rev counter and oil temperature gauge are easily visible. This extends to a full colour monitor being integrated into the top of the dashboard for all iDrive operations including information, entertainment, communication and navigation functions.A new Active Protection package is fitted as standard across the new 3 Series. The system is automatically activated above 18 km/h when it gently tensions the driver and front passenger seatbelts. If a crash is likely, the seatbelts are further tightened and windows and sunroof (where fitted) are automatically closed. In the event of a crash the system will also automatically brake the car beyond the initial impact for 1.5 seconds to reduce the likelihood of a second collision.Further safety options include a Lane Change Warning System and Lane Departure Warning System, including Collision Warning that tells the driver of a possible collision during a lane change manoeuvre or if the car strays out of its lane.Performance, on the other hand, takes a hit with acceleration from zero to 100 kilometres an hour taking 9.3 seconds. If you want more performance, opt for the petrol driven 320i which hits the same speed a couple of seconds quicker. While there’s a premium purchase price to pay over the likes of the Prius and Civic, on running costs, the 318d takes the fuel sippers on in a fiscal fistfight. It’s close.With 12 million sales around the world since its introduction in 1975, the BMW 3 Series is into its sixth generation and, with the 318d model adding further appeal, looks set to maintain its spot as a leading contender.

With 12 million sales around the world since its introduction in 1975, the BMW 3 Series is the Bavarian marque’s best selling car. It has recently been launched in its sixth generation and looks set to continue its popularity, especially with its generous suite of standard features.As well as a standard features list that’s longer than many times in the past, BMW also offers a range of trim and equipment options – Sport Line, Modern Line, Luxury Line, for example – to add more class to the car, while the M is on the list for the serious driver. These option packages combine the variety of accessories and extras the company had previously found to have the most boxes ticked when buyers made their individual choices. Thus making choices less complex than in the past.A full colour monitor that’s integrated into the top of the dashboard for all iDrive operations has information, entertainment, communication and navigation functions on offer. Below, on the centre stack are buttons for the dual zone climate control with the iDrive controls at hand on the centre console. Bluetooth is standard and the BMW Professional six-speaker and this audio unit also incorporates an MP3 compatible CD drive.The new BMW 3 Series comes with a choice of three petrol (two fours and a six-cylinder) and two four-cylinder diesel engines ranging in capacity from 1.8 to 3.0 litres.Despite its excellent fuel efficiency, the BMW 320i we tested has plenty of performance. Its 2.0-litre four-cylinder TwinPower Turbo engine pumps out 135 kW of power and 270 Nm of torque, 20 kW and 70 Nm more than the motor it replaces. At the same time it clips 2.2 seconds off the sprint time to 100 kilometres per hour - covering it in an almost sporting 7.6 seconds.BMW has long been one of the leaders in minimising carbon dioxide output from its cars. All models in the new 3 Series have a start/stop function that automatically cuts the engine at traffic lights or in stationary traffic. BMW says this is a first for the class.Further fuel saving measures include brake energy regeneration that ensures power for the vehicle electrical system is generated predominantly during braking and overrun. Electrically assisted power steering that calls on power only when needed in cornering also helps reduce fuel usage.An Eco Pro mode that alters throttle response and transmission shift points can be dialled up by a driver really keen on cutting their impact on the environment. As well as keeping the draw by heating and air-conditioning to a minimum it also controls the use of the (optional) heated seats and the door mirrors working at optimum levels. BMW has measured a cutting of fuel consumption by as much as 20 per cent when Eco Pro is used.Axle weight distribution is the optimum 50:50, giving the 320i the balance and handling ability to give the owner a high-level driving experience. Talking of driving experience, the new 320i features BMW’s own Driving Experience Control which, via a switch on the centre console, can shift between four driving modes – Comfort, Sport, Sport+, which pretty much are self explanatory, and Eco Pro as just described.An Adaptive M Suspension, available as an option, lowers the car by 10mm and brings in electronically controlled damping that adjusts for road surfaces and driving conditions. In a first for the segment, an eight-speed automatic transmission incorporating Sports Automatic function with steering wheel-mounted paddles, is standard. The close cog ratios mean that in fully auto mode it’s almost as if the car has a constantly variable transmission.If it’s playtime the driver seeks, use of the shift paddles go some way to upping the driving input but the tranny gives the impression it is still in control.Safety is never far from BMW’s mind and a new Active Protection package is fitted as standard across the 3 Series. The system is automatically activated above18 km/h when it gently tensions the driver and front passenger seatbelts. If a crash is likely the seatbelts are further tightened and windows and sunroof (where fitted) are automatically closed. In the event of a crash the system will also automatically brake the car beyond the initial impact for 1.5 seconds to reduce the likelihood of a second collision.BMW ConnectedDrive also offers optional technology to help drivers and avoid any potential collisions. This includes a full-colour head-up display in which key driving information is projected onto the windscreen in the driver’s field of vision. Further safety options include a Lane Change Warning System and Lane Departure Warning System, including Collision Warning that warns the driver of a possible collision during a lane change manoeuvre or if the car strays out of its lane.The all-new BMW 3 Series is slightly larger than before. Greater cabin dimensions particularly favour rear passengers where extra space has resulted in 15 mm more leg room and 8 mm more headroom and larger door openings for easier entry and exit. We tried the seat for size and while it’s certainly better than before this is still not exactly a spacious car for five adults. Three kids and two grown ups works nicely.The driver is made to feel very much in control of any BMW model, with the cockpit layout being angled towards them to ensure controls are ergonomically positioned and fuel gauge, speedometer, rev counter and oil temperature gauge are easily visible. The choice of standard upholstery is between beige and black Sensatec man-made leather trim. Dakota hides are an option.An excellent prestige car at a modest price for its class, the BMW 320i provides a lot of driving pleasure, yet achieves this with a minimum of damage to the air we all breathe.

With everything that’s going on in the automotive industry it’s hard to focus on the... well, Focus. However, the latest in the line of Ford’s small passenger car – the Focus ST – demands attention.Built in Germany, at $38,290 the Ford Focus ST is right in the melting pot of European-style hot hatches and is on sale now. It is covered by a three-year, 100,000 kilometre warranty and Ford’s capped price servicing.Voice commands (fully tuned to the Aussie accent, we are told), more elaborate than previously, can be used to make phone calls or select music from a digital media player. With automatic phonebook downloading hands can stay firmly on the steering wheel; eyes firmly on the road ahead.A 5-inch full colour screen displays sat nav info and is integrated with the Sony nine-speaker audio system, while a full bag of active and passive safety systems has earned the Focus ST a five-star ANCAP rating. Ford, however, is most proud of its SYNC connectivity system, advanced software, developed in conjunction with Microsoft, that enhances Bluetooth and voice control of systems.With the suffix ST, for Sports Tuning, the hot hatch, which tops off the latest Focus range, makes use of the company’s EcoBoost engine, in this case a 2.0-litre GTDI turbocharged four-cylinder unit. This is the first time EcoBoost has been brought to bear in a Ford sports car, and hooked up to a six-speed manual transmission, has the car hitting 100 kilometres an hour from rest in a spritely 6.5 seconds – that’s the ‘Boost’ bit.The ‘Eco’ part comes with the gasoline Direct Injection GDI engine surprisingly sipping just 7.4 litres of 95 to 98 RON petrol per 100 kilometres on the combined urban / highway cycle, while at the same time putting out 172 grams of carbon dioxide per kilometre, giving it Euro stage 4 status. Radiator grille shutters further improve fuel economy by automatically closing to improve Focus aerodynamics.A sports suspension is uniquely tuned for the ST and together with 18-inch wheels and Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2 Tyres with deflation detection help to overcome insecurity on corners. A black trapezoidal grille incorporating red ‘ST’ sets the scene up front, while bi-xenon HID headlamps, daytime running lights plus static cornering lights point to the use of state-of-the-art automotive technology.The Focus ST has been designed to catch the attention of the onlooker. Side skirts are the latest in fashion and lead to a bold rear sporting a roof-mounted spoiler and centrally located twin tailpipes. In the cabin, occupants are met with Recaro leather trimmed sports seats – snug fitting all round for the average-build person – sports alloy pedal covers and leather wrapped multi-function steering wheel, gear and handbrake levers.Smart key is backed up by a dash-mounted engine start / stop button. Satellite navigation and reversing camera come to the aid of the driver, while occupants can take advantage of dual zone air-conditioning.Launched in Australia in the alpine region of Victoria, my co-driver for the day cheekily suggested we take the bright yellow-to-orange car, in which ‘we wouldn’t draw much attention to ourselves.’ Yeah, right, with a name like Tangerine Scream was there ever a more apt colour for a halo car?And the drive? It was a perfectly pleasant way to spend a birthday – relaxed with just the right amount of added adventure on the tight twisty roads to put the icing on the cake. Nothing fancy next, with power being distributed to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. Backed up by gear-shift indicator on the dash, the gears slip from cog to cog with the swift and smooth action of the stubby lever on the centre console aided by a no-nonsense clutch.Increased pedal pressure is rewarded by an increasingly sporty sound from the motor finding its way into the cabin, while torque is automatically varied between the front wheels to maintain tyre grip on fast bends further adding to the enjoyable driving experience.The steering is sublime. The new system takes power steering to a new level. Electrically assisted, operation is at maximum power at low speeds, when parking, for example, and gradually reduces on acceleration, keeping the driver in touch with what is happening between tyre and road. Feedback becomes more direct as the speed increases and steering wheel turn is trimmed for the equivalent direction change.

The Holden Volt offers drivers to perfect reasoning for never queuing at a service station again. Even better, owning one of these means you won't be topping up the annual profits of already highly profit-able oil companies.Built in the United States, the Holden Volt has a recommended price of $59,990, plus on-road charges and will be subject to Holden’s capped service fees. The charging is as easy as topping up a mobile phone; by plugging it into a conventional domestic 10 Amp power point for six to ten hours, costing as little as $2.50. A 15 Amp connection brings the full charge time down to four hours.The lithium-ion battery, developed in conjunction with the LG Chemical Company, can also gain charge from regenerative braking in which energy lost while the brakes are applied is converted to electricity stored in the battery.Occupants are cradled in four deep and highly supportive leather upholstered seats (heated at the front) and benefit from electronic climate control air-conditioning, while the driver has access to keyless entry and engine start, front and rear park assist and rear-view camera. He or she can also activate the pedestrian-friendly alert system.A sophisticated infotainment system makes use of two dashboard-mounted 7-inch full colour LCD screens which deal with satellite navigation, Bluetooth, USB with iPod connectivity, a 30GB disk drive and DVD player. Many of these functions can be operated through voice recognition.The cabin is lined with top quality plastic material (weight is the enemy, remember), while Bose Energy Efficient Series speakers use 50 per cent less energy than comparable Bose systems, yet sound remains 100 per cent crystal clear. The centre stack control panel is touch operated; while the screen directly in front of the driver is used to display info on speed, battery and fuel levels, tyre pressure and trip computers.Holden Volt is an electric vehicle that does away with ‘range anxiety’ that’s suffered by some who drive pure electric cars. That’s because it has two sources of energy – a battery that allows an electric motor alone to drive the car up to 87 kilometres and a petrol generator that can produce electricity to keep the vehicle moving for up to 600 kilometres on a single charge and a full tank (35.2 litres) of premium (95 RON) fuel.The latter, a 1.4-litre petrol motor, extends the range by maintaining a charge in the battery to power the wheels until the battery can be externally charged or the Volt refuelled. The petrol engine doesn’t power the wheels directly.Apart from all of the above the Volt is a conventional car with the ability to carry up to four occupants in quiet comfort, something highlighted on an inner city drive program for the motoring media in Sydney that we thoroughly enjoyed. Based on the Holden Cruze platform, the quality of fit and finish inside and out is high.The Holden Volt rolls on 17-inch alloy wheels and features projector headlamps, LED daytime running lights and an integrated rear spoiler. There is no engine compartment cooling through a radiator grille. That is achieved by directing a flow of air under the bonnet from underneath the vehicle.Safety is paramount, with the Volt calling on a cohort of hi-tech systems to take care of people both inside and outside the vehicle. Occupants are protected in the event of a crash by high-strength steel body crush zones and eight airbags. Electronic stability and traction control look to preventing these ‘unscheduled incidents’ together with the latest technology such as lane departure warnings which alert the driver to wandering out of a lane without signalling.Front sensors can be set to one of three distances from a vehicle ahead. If the Volt edges too close, an alarm will sound. There is also a driver activated alert that warns pedestrians of the almost-silent car approaching at low speed.In the absence of a traditional transmission, electric propulsion, delivered seamlessly through the front wheels, gives the vehicle instant maximum torque off the mark resulting in quick and immediate acceleration. An extra level of interaction is on tap, showing a moving ball efficiency gauge that if kept in the centre of the scale shows the vehicle is being driven to optimal efficiency.The touch screen atop the centre console displays real-time information on energy use and power flow, plus advanced efficiency feedback based on driving style, climate settings and energy usage.Drivers can take advantage of three driving modes – Normal, Sport and Hold – at the press of a steering wheel-mounted button. Sport enhances Normal mode to give an exhilarating driving experience courtesy of added response times and heightened feedback. ‘Hold’ conserves battery power, drawing an electric charge from the petrol generator to drive the wheels.

It seems as though everyone is a critic, especially when it comes to the Nissan Almera. Trawling the internet for early word on the Japanese automobile manufacturer’s new light sedan unearthed on-liners wading in, at times quite ferociously, to the car which has just come to Australia.The Nissan Almera 1.5 ST four-door sedan starts at $16,990 for the manual and $18,990 for the automatic. The Almera 1.5 Ti four-door sedan is also available for $20,990 in automatic only. There’s a multifunction computer putting info at the driver’s beck and call with displays of fuel consumption, driving range and service reminders.Also included are Bluetooth connectivity, steering wheel audio controls, four-speaker sound with MP3 player and auxiliary plug. Rear park assist is on hand, as well as climate control air conditioning, keyless entry and push-button engine start.On offer in two specification levels – Almera ST and Almera Ti – the former with five-speed manual or four-speed automatic, the latter in auto only. Up front there’s a 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 75 kW of power at 6000 rpm and 139 Nm of torque at 4000 rpm, driving through the front wheels.The manual goes through 6.3 litres of 91 RON fuel per 100 kilometres on the combined urban/highway cycle, the automatic 6.7 litres per 100 kilometres, putting out 149 grams per km and 159 g/km of carbon dioxide respectively.Having spent time with the Almera on its media launch Down Under, I beg to differ. Based on the same platform as the Nissan Micra hatch, Almera’s strength lies in its passenger cabin with, literally, class-leading space.Almera’s rear seat legroom of 940 mm is 94 mm greater than Hyundai Accent, 59 mm greater than Holden Barina and 36 mm greater than Toyota Yaris. Headroom in front is similarly generous; in the back not so. The outstanding volume extends to the boot with 490 litres, 25 litres more than the Accent and 15 litres more than the Yaris.And so to the exterior, which seems to have stirred the online pot. The Almera shares a new Nissan global design direction with the forthcoming Pulsar and Altima models, its signature grille and large wraparound halogen headlights, fog lamps and rear spoiler together producing a fuel saving aerodynamic package.It rolls on 15-inch steel wheels with covers, or the same size alloys, while the spare is a full-size steel wheel. Much negativity has been focused on the exterior with many comments using the word ‘ugly’, others harking back to the less-than-exotic, but nevertheless, cheap-and-cheerful Datsun 120Y.Safety matches that of other vehicles in the class with vehicle stability control, ABS anti-skid brakes with electronic brake force distribution and brake assist. There are six airbags across the model range, including dual front, side and curtain airbags.On a short drive in the country (the wintry Dandenongs) the Nissan Almera manual ran true to form, finding the flat to its liking but running out of breath in higher gears hitting the hills – no excessive chore for the accomplished driver.However, the stubby gear lever suffered from having a long, loose throw with clutch travel likewise. The aforementioned spacious cabin provided a relatively comfortable and especially quiet travelling environment.

Out there there’s the sedate sedan man who covets a sporty two-door coupe; there’s a coupe owner who craves the convenience of four doors. Now both can have it all with the new BMW 640i Gran Coupe.VALUEPriced at $184,800, plus on-road costs, to say it’s a blend of heart-racing good looks and eye-watering performance is not to overstate the Gran Coupe. Efficiencies are obtained through the use of an Eco Pro driving mode, auto stop/start engine function, brake energy regeneration, electromechanical power steering, ancillary units used only on demand, an air-conditioning compressor that can be disengaged, active air flap control to cut drag and the use of lightweight materials throughout the vehicle. Advanced chassis technology, which includes the use of aluminium for strength and weight saving, ensures premium ride quality and dynamic performance of the Gran Coupe. Also standard is a full-colour head-up display projected onto the windscreen directly in front of the driver giving speed, sat nav guidance, messages and alerts from the lane departure system and night vision.A range of interior finishes are also available. Topping the lot is an M Sports package that includes M aerodynamics up front, side skirts and rear apron, dark chrome tailpipe tips, and black brake callipers on 20-inch alloy wheels with double spoke design, plus M body colours.TECHNOLOGYFollowing the well travelled road of full-on sporty performance with exceptional fuel economy, the Gran Coupe calls on BMW’s award-winning 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine with precision petrol injection and twin scroll turbocharger. Peak power of 235 kW comes up between 5800 and 6000 rpm and 450 Nm of torque from 1300 to 4500 revs. This means the car will clear the line on the way to hitting the 100 km/h tape in just 5.4 seconds.With the motor matched to an eight-speed Sport automatic transmission and benefiting from BMW’s Efficient Dynamics technology, average fuel consumption is claimed to be 7.9 litres per 100 kilometres on the combined urban / highway cycle, while putting out 183 grams of carbon dioxide every kilometre.DESIGNAs the name suggests, the luxurious Coupe makes itself known in a Gran(d) manner. With limousine proportions - the car measures 5007 mm long thanks to a 2968 mm wheelbase, 113 mm more than the 6 Series Coupe and Convertible - the winners here are the back seat passengers who enjoy increased leg room.Indeed, it is the longest vehicle in the segment, one that includes the likes of the Aston Martin Rapide and the Maserati Quattroporte. The extra couple of doors mean there are more windows, letting more light into the cabin. The front of the vehicle returns to the beloved company shark nose and kidney radiator grille, while the BMW emblem itself dominates the long bonnet which reaches out to the set-back passenger cabin.In profile, there’s no missing the fact of the Gran Coupe’s low centre of gravity, which is only emphasised by sharp horizontal lines across the rear and a third stop lamp which runs the full width of the top edge of the rear window. Exterior paint includes a matt finish Frozen Bronze which, among others, produces a facial Max Factor would have been proud to call his own.Despite the low lines, the vehicle height is increased over the Coupe model and the 460 litre boot is capable of carrying three golf bags, expanding to 1265 litres with the rear seat backs folded flat. Inside the cabin it will comfortably seat four adults, with the option of using the centre rear position for a fifth providing he or she is prepared to straddle the centre console. All seats are wrapped in Dakota leather, with the option of Nappa hides with contrasting stitching adding extra class.SAFETYSafety is high on the list of Gran Coupe features. These include active cruise control which will keep the vehicle at a pre-determined distance from the vehicle in front. A collision warning system automatically sounds an alarm and applies the brakes to slow down the vehicle can be activated via the car’s iDrive menu.A park distance alarm and a reversing camera which projects the rear view onto the in-car screen are standard and can be added to with a surround view system that incorporates a side view too. Optional park assist helps the driver seek out a potential parking space and takes control of parking, steering into the space with the driver operating only the accelerator and brake.At night standard high beam assist sets high beam and dips the lights automatically for oncoming, or close-ahead, traffic, while an optional night vision system uses a thermal imaging camera to pick up pedestrians, animals or anything emitting heat and show them on the control display in the cabin.DRIVINGAn option unique to the class is integrated active steering in which the steering angle of the rear wheels is altered to match the power assistance and steering angle of the front wheels. Agility is improved on tight bends, in lane changing and in city traffic.When it comes to driving, the Gran Coupe could well be described as being ‘all cars to all men’. A so-called Driving Experience Control button on the centre console dishes up Comfort, Sport and Sport+ modes which work on accelerator pressure and engine response, gear shifts, power steering and stability control to suit the driver’s style and the occupants wishes. The button also brings into play Eco Pro which highlights driving style and how to match it to maximum fuel economy.While all this is going on, cabin occupants can be entertained by a premium Bang and Olufsen audio and for an extra $16,000 a high-end surround sound system with 14 speakers and two sub-woofers in thrall to 1200 Watts of power. Notes from the engine finding their way into the comfortable and classy cabin were perfectly in tune with the sporty aspect of the vehicle.Adaptive LED headlamps feature white LED corona rings as parking and daytime running lights. These are flattened at the bottom and overlapped at the top edge with a further LED light. It’s almost as if the car were sharply concentrating on the road ahead. The 6 Series Gran Coupe standard package is a whole box and dice of what is best about BMW’s adherence to producing drivers’ cars, a point repeatedly illustrated on our run.VERDICTThe Gran Coupe offers a great example of luxury with a touch of larrikin ladness.BMW 6 Series Gran CoupePrice: From $184,800Warranty: 3 years roadsideSafety: Not ratedEngine: 3.0-litre, 6-cyl turbo petrol, 235kW/450NmTtransmission: 8-speed auto, rear-wheel driveThirst: 7.9L/100km, 183g/km CO2Body: 5007mm (L), 1894mm (W), 1392mm (H)Weight: 1750kg