Articles by Graham Smith

NEWThere's no doubt that the BMW badge is holding its own despite a number of other makes muscling in on the territory once occupied only by the Bavarian carmaker and its cross-country rival Mercedes-Benz.For some, the BMW badge became a little passé when the 3-Series became the car of choice for those wanting to be seen driving a more upmarket machine and they mostly turned to other marques such as Audi and Lexus, but by the number of BMWs on the road the German brand is still one to aspire to.Getting on-board the BMW prestige train, however, requires a sizable bank account. They're not only an expensive purchase, but can cost a pretty penny to maintain.One way to reduce the cost of purchasing one of these luxury machines is to buy used. If you're somewhat impoverished and can't afford the more exotic models BMW offers then an entry-level model like the 528i is a way in.Lookswise the F10 528i that appeared in showrooms in 2010 was a handsome machine, particularly compared to some of the edgy designs that have come from BMW over the past few years. It was smooth, nicely proportioned and with flowing lines that looked the goods from all angles.Inside there was plenty of accommodation for four adults, although squeezing a fifth in somewhat compromised the comfort.Power for the 528i comes from a 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line engine delivering 190 kW and 310 Nm, and like all BMW sixes is happy to sing for its supper. It's not a fire-breathing monster, rather it's a silky smooth unit perfectly suited to the task at hand, while still delivering decent fuel economy.An eight-speed auto works well in tandem with the six to get the most out of the engine in all situations, and the final drive happens through the rear wheels.While most carmakers have moved to front-wheel drive, mostly for efficient packaging, BMW has steadfastly stuck with rear-wheel drive, which is a blessing for anyone who really likes driving. There's little to compare to the feel and response of a rear-wheel drive car and BMW is right up there with the best.NOWThe 528i is packed with technology, which is fine and dandy when it's working as intended, but no so endearing when it's not. When things go wrong, with things like the eight-speed transmission or any of the myriad electronic systems, the cost of repair can be horrific.While it's nice to experience the glitz that comes with taking your BMW to a factory dealership it comes at a cost, so before buying into the brand you need to weigh up the cost of repairs and maintenance and consider who you might use to keep your machine ticking over at its best.If it's under warranty, no question, use the dealer for servicing, if it's out of warranty consider the option of using an independent service agent who can generally maintain and repair your car at a much reduced rate.Another thing to consider is the cost of tyres. The 528i runs on expensive low-profile run-flat tyres that are likely to come up for replacement while in the hands of the second owner.If those things don't deter you then the good news is that there is little complaint from F10 owners. With the earliest examples having now done around 30,000 km it's still early days, but anyone considering buying a used 528i as they come off lease can do so with good confidence that they will get a good run out of the car.SMITHY SAYSGreat driving, well built, fully featured prestige sedan. Can't go wrong.BMW 528i 2010-2011Price new: $99,900Engine: 3.0-litre 6-cylinderTransmission: 8-speed automatic, RWDEconomy: 8 L/100 kmBody: 4-door sedanVariants: 528iSafety: 5-star ANCAPCOMING UPDo you own a Holden Barina? If so tell us what you think of it by sending your comments to Graham Smith at grah.smith@bigpond.com or Carsguide, PO Box 4245, Sydney, NSW, 2010.

Skoda is one of those brands that muddles along in the mid-size market, rarely having any impact.NEWIt could be that we have long memories and recall the cars sold here in earlier times, cars that were poorly put together, had little or no manufacturer support and, well, were pretty ordinary devices from an Iron Curtain country.While all of that was true then, it's not now when the company is owned by VW, the Czech factories they're produced in are owned and run by VW, and the cars are VWs under the skin. The re-born Czech brand returned to the market in 2007 after a long absence and promised VW motoring on a budget.The mid-sized Octavia was one of the first models to be launched and remains the brand's main weapon with a large range of models, including hatchback and wagon body styles, a number of petrol and diesel engine options, and various transmissions.It isn't particularly stylish, but in today's terms when all cars look alike, the Octavia could be said to stand out with its more traditional grille. Get past the looks and you find a practical, roomy and well-equipped car that does everything without fuss.The Octavia is based on the VW Golf, which ensures it has a European feel about it. There's a wide choice of petrol and diesel engines, they're all VW units, and they all perform strongly while delivering decent fuel economy.Backing them up is a range of manual and auto transmissions, including the much-maligned dual-clutch DSG auto. Inside, the Octavia is neatly laid-out with room enough for four adults in comfort, or five at a squeeze. Thick pillars can create blind spots for the driver, and the cabin noise level tends to be a little higher than you might expect for a car in this class.NOWWith relatively slow sales you'll have to look long and hard to find the car you want, they're not plentiful like some other makes and models. It also means prices are more affordable if you're buying. If you're selling it means resale is affected.Few complaints about Skodas have reached Carsguide, which is interesting given the huge amount of mail we get complaining about VWs. It could simply be a case that too few Skodas are out there to generate comment, or perhaps Skoda takes a different view to VW when dealing with complaints. Or it could be that Skoda owners are a contented lot.Whatever it's important that any car is thoroughly checked, because there's no reason to think Skodas are immune from the problems that plague their VW cousins. Engines, the 1.8 TSI in particular, can give trouble. Many have had to be replaced quite early in life, so be wary and check service records carefully.The other problem area is the DSG, which can be brilliant when working correctly, but it can equally be a nightmare when it's not, and there are plenty of examples of both.Clutch packs, computers, wiring can all conspire to bring the DSG to a halt, so test drive DSG-equipped cars carefully. Things to be noted are shuddering, incorrect gear selection, hesitations, reluctance to select gears, going into neutral at inappropriate moments. In fact, be wary of anything that doesn't appear to be normal, they're expensive to fix.Check service records for evidence of regular maintenance, make sure cam belts have been changed when needed, and watch brake wear. Note that Skoda recommends the use of Premium unleaded fuel.SMITHY SAYSNeat, practical mid-sizer, but is burdened by some of VWs flaws.Skoda Octavia 2009-2011Price new: $29,290 to $38,290Engine: 1.4-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged, 90 kW/200 Nm; 1.6-litre 4-cylinder, 75 kW/148 Nm; 1.8-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged, 118 kW/250 Nm; 1.6-litre 4-cylinder turbo-diesel, 77 kW/250 Nm; 1.9-litre 4-cylinder turbo-diesel, 77 kW/250 Nm; 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbo-diesel, 103 kW/320 NmTransmission: 5-speed manual, 6-speed auto, 6-speed DSG auto, 7-speed DSG auto, FWDEconomy: 7.8 L/100 km (1.6), 6.7 L/100 km (1.8T), 6.3 L/100 km (1.9TD), 5.7 L/100 km (2.0TD),Body: 5-door hatch, 4-door wagonVariants: 1.6, 1.8 TSI, 1.9 TDI, 2.0 TDI (2009) 75, 77, 90, 103, 118 (2010)Safety: 4-star ANCAP

Try as it might Volvo can't seem to shake its reputation for being boring and stodgy, even though the company is now part of the Ford empire and its cars are closely related to models carrying the blue oval.NEWUnder the Ford banner the cars carrying the Volvo slash are a far cry from the old Volvos, but still it seems the Volvo badge is enough to deter possible buyers from stopping off at its dealerships when out shopping for a prestige car.Take, for instance, the mid-sized S60 sedan, which is a well equipped, decent driving, attractive car by any measure, and yet it struggles for traction against rivals from BMW and Audi and the like that are the new aspirational makes.With the choice of front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive the S60 chassis is capable of handling any type of road that comes its way with impressive aplomb. Equipped with ABS brakes and stability control there are no situations it can't deal with safely. Show it a flowing road and it comes up trumps.Not only does it handle impressively it also rides well, soaking up all sorts of road surfaces without fuss. If it drives nicely it also looks good with its distinctively Volvo front, smooth flowing lines and athletic profile.There's a good choice of petrol and diesel engines to give you the performance or economy you want, starting with a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol four through to a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6, with a couple of five-cylinder turbo-diesels in the midst of the range. Some criticised the auto transmission, which was said to be slow reacting and was often found wanting in its gear selection.NOWThe S60 released in 2010 is still relatively new to the market having been on the road for only a couple of years or so, so it's to be expected that there will be few reports of problems and our research with Volvo service specialists suggest that there is little to report at this stage of the car's life.Even though it's early days for the S60 it's still important that any car under consideration for purchase be checked for condition. It would be unusual for a car so new to be neglected when it comes to servicing, but it's still better to check its service record rather than assuming it has been done. Check inside and out for any signs of wear and tear that might bring the value down.It's also worth mentioning at this stage that with the Volvo brand on the nose with many people, rightly or wrongly, the resale value can be adversely affected. That applies equally when you're buying and when you are selling.It also needs to be noted that the S60 doesn't have a spare wheel, and there's no provision for carrying one. The only option is to carry a can of puncture repair foam.SMITHY SAYSLook beyond the brand and you'll find a decent car in the S60. Take a look.Volvo S60Price new: $51,990 to $69,990Engine: 1.6-litre 4-cyl turbo, 132 kW/240 Nm; 2.0-litre 4-cyl turbo, 177 kW/320 Nm; 3.0-litre V6 turbo, 224 kW/440 Nm; 2.0-litre 5-cyl turbo-diesel, 120 kW/400 Nm; 2.4-litre 5-cyl turbo-diesel, 151 kW/420 NmTransmission: 6-speed auto, FWD, AWDEconomy: 7.4 L/100 km (T4), 8.6 L/100 km (T5), 10.2 L/100 km (T6), 5.9 L/100 km (D3), 7.1 L/100 km (D5)Body: 4-door sedanVariants: T4, T5, T6, D3, D5Safety: 5-star ANCAPCOMING UPHave you bought a Great Wall ute? If so tell us what you think of it by sending your comments to Graham Smith at grah.smith@bigpond.com or Carsguide, PO Box 4245, Sydney, NSW, 2010.

BMW was in the vanguard of the new-age nostalgia wave when it launched the Mini in 2002. The Mini was the first of a new generation of feel-good models, but few thought nostalgia would catch on.NEWOf the cars that were launched to cash-in on our need to tap into the good old days, the Mini has been the one that has cemented a place in the market. Others have come and gone, some even come again, but none have thrived like the Mini.BMW's success seems to stem from being able to capture the essence of the original Mini, whereas other carmakers simply made pale imitations of their classics. Park a new Mini alongside an original one and they are quite different, yet viewed alone there's no doubt about the new car's heritage.It still looks cute, and unlike some other nostalgia models, the fun feeling continues once you hit the road. The original Mini was noted for its go-kart like handling and the new one is just, perhaps even more, fun-packed.BMW released an update to the theme in 2010 when it added features and made some changes under the skin. The extra standard features consisted of rain-sensing wipers, auto headlights, Bluetooth, USB input, fog lights and velour mats.The major under-skin change was a new diesel, which was a larger, more efficient, BMW-derived 1.6-litre unit and injected the diesel models with more power and torque than the previous diesel. It also delivered better fuel economy.The other engines, the 1.6-litre normally-aspirated one and the 1.6-litre turbocharged unit, were unchanged. The petrol engines were available with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed auto transmission, but the diesel was only available with a six-speed manual.An auto stop-start function and a gear shift indicator were included to assist drivers get the best economy from their cars. For anyone who didn't feel comfortable with the stop-start function, BMW made the system switchable. Changes were made to the cabin as well, which were aimed at toning it down a little.NOWIt's early days as far as the 2010 update model is concerned, even the earliest ones will only have maybe 30,000 km on the clock, so there shouldn't be any issues to be concerned about.Earlier models did have their troubles with things like the power steering and gearbox, so it's important that you conduct a thorough road test, perhaps even get an experienced mechanic to do it for you. Make sure the engine starts and runs without any hesitation, that it revs smoothly up through the rev range and there are no vibrations to be felt.When you head out on the road check that the clutch engages smoothly and takes up without any hitches. Once moving run through all gears, listening for odd noises that shouldn't be there. There shouldn't be any odd clunks or groans from the suspension as you round corners or negotiate bumps.It's always a good idea to drive over speed humps, not too fast, but they are good to bring out any issues with the suspension. Operate all systems, windows, mirrors, air, sound, and anything on the car to see that it all works as it should. Previous models suffered from issues with the power windows, so checking them is a must.If it's a cabriolet you're looking at run the roof up and down a couple of times to see that it's smooth, also check for any sign of fraying, wear etc. Servicing is all-important with any car, so make sure yours has been through a workshop when it's meant to have.SMITHY SAYSNot for everyone, but driving one sure makes you feel good.MINI - 2010-2011Price new: $31,500 to $57,300Engine: 1.6-litre, 4-cylinder, 88 kW/160 Nm; 1.6-litre, 4-cylinder turbo, 128 kW/240 Nm; 1.6-litre, 4-cylinder turbo, 155 kW/260 Nm; 1.6-litre, 4-cylinder turbo-diesel, 82 kW/270 NmTransmission: 6-speed auto, 6-speed manual, FWDEconomy: 6.7 L/100 km (1.6); 6.7 L/100 km (1.6T); 6.9 L/100 km (1.6TST); 3.9 L/100 km (TD)Body: 2-door hatch, 2-door cabriolet, 3-door wagonVariants: Cooper, Cooper S, JCW, ClubmanSafety: 5-star ANCAP

NEW - Suzuki has always been a highly regarded small car brand by those in the know, its small sedans and four-wheel drives having a well deserved reputation for quality and innovation.More recently the company has pumped up its range with new and even better models like the new Swift and the even newer Kizashi, the company's first crack at a mid-sized car.The Kizashi was widely acclaimed for its refinement and on-road character when it was launched. For many it was a revelation. It was only available as a sedan, but there were three models to choose from, beginning with the front-wheel drive XL, the mid-range FWD XLS and the all-singing, all-dancing all-wheel drive Sport.The styling was unremarkable, but inoffensive, with neat lines and balanced proportions and the odd touch of chrome for a highlight. Inside it was reasonably roomy for four, the cabin was awash in rather sombre tonings, but there was everything you could want and a flash of silver brightened it a little.The power was provided by a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine that generates 131 kW and 230 Nm and provided plenty of punch. The standard gearbox across all models was a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) that was generally smooth and responsive, but there was also the option of a six-speed manual gearbox in the XL and XLS. Sport buyers could only have a CVT, the six-speeder wasn't available, which is a pity given the sporting pretentions of the model.But Sport buyers did have the grip advantage of all-wheel drive whereas XL and XLS punters only had front-wheel drive in their cars. On the road the Kizashi was impressively quiet and refined with excellent road manners, balanced handling and good grip.NOWWith the Kizashi just ticking over into its third year on the market there's little to report in terms of reliability concerns, and with Suzuki's past history for robustness there's little reason to be anything but confident going forward.Some owners have reported heavy stone-chipping on their cars, much heavier than other cars, particularly those coloured red or grey. It's unclear if it's a paint problem or just the shape of the car that promotes chipping, but whatever the reason it chips very easily. It not only looks ugly, but it affects resale.Others have reported issues with the CVT transmissions doing odd things, so it's worth checking thoroughly by subjecting the CVT to all sorts of driving situations and observing for any shuddering, slipping, over-revving, and odd noises.Suzuki engines are finely crafted pieces of jewellery and need looking after, so make sure the oil has been changed regularly and doesn't look black or full of gunk when you pull the dipstick. Check the tyres, the Kizashi has a reputation for wearing out tyres quickly, which is perhaps a reflection of its handling.SMITHY SAYSQuiet, refined with great on-road manners the mid-sized Suzuki is definitely one to think about.Suzuki Kizashi 2010-2011Price new: from $30,490 to $39,990Engine: 2.4-litre, 4-cylinder, 131 kW/230 NmTransmission: CVT auto, 6-speed manual, FWD, AWDEconomy: 8.4 L/100 kmBody: 4-door sedanVariants: XL, XLS, SportSafety: 5-star ANCAP  

NEW - Going shopping for an Accord you were confronted with two quite different models bearing the same badge. There was the Accord V6 for those who wanted a more cossetted ride, and the Accord Euro for those who preferred a more spirited, engaging drive.The Euro was smaller than the V6, had sharper handling and only came with a four-cylinder engine, albeit a spirited one. The new model Euro introduced in 2008 looked much the same as its predecessor, but it was in fact all new, with a new platform and a new body to boot. The upside was that it was longer, wider, with a longer wheelbase and wider track, and it was stiffer. On the downside it was heavier.Inside, it was roomy and comfortable for both front and back seat passengers with good leg and headroom, but the boot was rather small, made worse when the full-sized spare wheel ate into the available space, and the back seat couldn't be folded if you wanted to cart long items. New double wishbone suspension appeared at the front and rear with variable rate shock absorbers and there was speed-sensitive steering.The four-cylinder engine was modified for increased power ands a modest increase in torque, with a small reduction in fuel consumption as well. There was a choice of a six-speed manual and a five-speed automatic, and for a few more bucks you could have paddle shifting on the steering wheel.All models had plenty of standard equipment. The base car came with dual-zone air-conditioning, cruise, power windows and heated mirrors, six-CD sound, leather-wrapped steering wheel, alloy wheels and a full-sized spare. Move up to the Luxury and you got leather trim, a sunroof, heated seats, powered front seats, rain-sensitive wipers, high intensity headlamps, front and rear parking sensors and fog lamps. Both were also comprehensively kitted out with safety features with eight airbags, ABS braking and ESP electronic stability control.NOWHonda is a highly respected brand and Accord is a most respected model, one sought after by used car buyers looking for a trouble free run for a number of years, and for good reason. Euro owners have few gripes about their cars, the earliest of which will now have around 75,000 km showing on their odometers.Hondas are generally well engineered and solidly built, so they generally hold up well in the long term, providing they are looked after and well serviced. They have a reputation for being expensive to service and replacement parts are generally held to be on the expensive side, but by using an independent Honda mechanic to maintain your car, particularly once the warranty has run out, those concerns can be alleviated.Make sure the car you are considering purchasing has been regularly maintained with oil and filter changes as recommended by the factory. Honda engines, like all modern engines, require a diet of fresh oil to stay healthy. Skip oil changes and you're risking a major meltdown when its vital arteries inevitably clog up and restrict the oil flow. The Euro requires Premium unleaded, so be prepared to pay a few cents extra at the pump.SMITHY SAYSWell built, with sporty handling and a zippy engine, the Accord Euro is for the driver in the family. Buy with confidence.Honda Accord Euro 2008-2011Price new: $34,990 to $44,990Engine: 2.4-litre, 4-cylinder, 148 kW/230 NmTransmission: 5-speed auto, 6-speed man, FWDEconomy: 8.9 L/100 km, PULPBody: 4-door sedanVariants: Base, Luxury, Luxury NaviSafety: 5-star ANCAP

There was a time, not so long ago, when no one would dare attempt to crash the Holden-Ford party that for so long defined the Australian market, but that's all changed.NEWNo longer are the Commodore and Falcon the dominating forces they once were, their influence is on the wane big time if you look at the latest sales numbers.Today's buyer has much more choice as other carmakers have edged into the market and consumers have chosen to downsize to slightly smaller models, like Kia's Optima. The Korean carmaker clearly saw the trend and landed its mid-sized sedan in an attempt to win over some of those moving away from the big two.Kia rolled out two models in the Optima range, beginning with the Platinum that came packed with just about everything you could want, and followed by the more modestly equipped Si. The attractive sedan not only looked good, it was able to seat five adults in decent comfort, even in the back. Add to that a good-sized boot and a split-fold rear seat and you had a pretty impressive package.The power package consisted of a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine and six-speed automatic transmission that delivered a good combination of performance and economy. The good news was that local engineers tuned the suspension for local roads, and the result was impressive.While it was impressive on the road, it was also well equipped to handle a crash with front, head and side airbags, ABS brakes, emergency brake assistance, traction control and ESP stability control. It was also impressively equipped with climate controlled air, cruise, leather upholstery, Xenon headlamps, CD sound and a host of other features.NOWKia has been one of the notable makes in recent times and few Carsguide readers have had cause to contact the desk with complaints. Cars sampled in recent times have all been well built and solid on the road, devoid of rattles and squeaks that can ruin the experience of stepping up to a later model.The earliest examples of the TF Optima will have now accumulated up to 50,000 km, so the showroom gloss has yet to fully fade. Even so it's important to conduct a thorough examination of any car under consideration for purchase. All cars, no matter the make or model, or sticker price, can have problems, even from new.Before handing over your cash go for a longish drive with the seller and observe closely for any odd noises, vibrations, bangs and bumps that might suggest something untoward is lurking under the sheetmetal. Drive the car at various speeds from walking pace to highway cruise, accelerate softly and more aggressively, let it idle, use the power steering, check the brakes, and put the automatic transmission through its paces.If anything that appears unusual is detected consider having a mechanic or your motoring club check the car for you. In addition to driving the car lift the bonnet and check for oil leaks. While you're at it run through all the features on the car, the power windows, central locking, sound system, cruise, air-conditioning etc. to make sure they're working as they should be.Having thoroughly test driven the car and carefully inspected it without finding any glaring faults you can buy the Optima with confidence.SMITHY SAYSRoomy, well equipped mid-sized four-door that can be approached with confidence. 3.5 starsKia Optima 2010-2012Price new: $30,490 to $36,990Engine: 2.4-litre, 4-cylinder, 148kW/250NmTransmission: 6-speed automatic, FWDThirst: 7.9L/100kmBody: 4-door sedanVariants: Si, PlatinumSafety: 5-star ANCAP

NEW - There is little doubt that the SUV is the most popular type of   vehicle in today's market, you only have to look around you in the   daily grind to know that the SUV is today's favourite family wagon. Such has been their success that carmakers have been doing back flips   trying to satisfy the demand for more and different types of SUV.Mitsubishi's compact ASX is a case in point. It's the SUV you have   when you don't really want an SUV, you know, when you don't want a   rugged offroader, or a road-hogging seven-seater behemoth. The compact ASX is a wagon, for sure, but it looks more like a car   than a traditional offroad wagon. The range kicked off with a petrol-engined two-wheel drive entry model, a sensible town-based SUV, and topped-out with a turbo-diesel four-wheel driver.The ASX was based on the Outlander four-wheel drive SUV, which made it a real four-wheel driver for those who feel the need for   technology, but it was the two-wheel drive model that was the big   news in the range. At the bottom of the range the 2WD ASX was a front-driver with power   from a modest 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine and a CVT transmission.Inside, the ASX boasted a roomy, comfortable car-like cabin. The   doors allowed easy access to the interior, but if it lacked anything   it was a decent sized boot. The spare wheel is a space-saver, which says plenty about its   intended use. There's lots to like about the ASX's safety, which is reflected in the 5-star rating it received from ANCAP. No wonder, it's got a rigid body, a full complement of airbags, ABS   brakes and ESP.NOWThe ASX utilises the same mechanical bits and pieces as the rest of   the Mitsubishi range, which means they're robust and reliable without   setting the world on fire in terms of performance. The engines generally stand up well, but like all modern engines it's   critical that they are serviced regularly. Likewise the transmissions and driveline components are generally bulletproof.One component to be wary of, however, is the CVT gearbox. It's wise   to take a long test drive before buying a car with a CVT to make sure you will be comfortable with its driving style before to part with   your cash. While you're at it thoroughly put the CVT through its paces, checking   it at low speed, high speed, manoeuvring slowly at walking speed, taking off and slowing down, all the while observing for any shuddering, hesitations, or confusion about what it's doing.The ASX hasn't been on the market for very long, so there shouldn't be anything to be concerned about, but make sure all the systems are working correctly and check for a service record. In these tough times people who have stretched their budgets to buy   their car in the first place sometimes overlook servicing.SMITHY SAYSLooks better than it goes, but reliability makes it worth considering.Price new: $28,490 to $36,990Engine: 1.8-litre 4-cylinder turbo-diesel, 110 kW/300 Nm; 2.0-litre 4-cylinder, 110 kW/197 Nm Transmission: 6-speed manual, CVT, FWD, 4WDEconomy: 5.9 L/100 km (TD), 7.9 L/100 km (2.0)Body: 5-door wagonVariants: 2WD, 4WD, Aspire 4WD Safety: 5-star ANCAP 

It's hard to believe given its strong recent performance that Mazda was struggling to survive in the Australian market just a few years ago. That was before a remarkable rebirth following the launch of a whole new range of models and a catchy "Zoom Zoom" theme.NEWIn the last 10 years or so we have seen the 3 become one of the most popular cars on the local market and other models, such as the 2, also grow in market acceptance. The 2 launched here in 2002 and won over the small car crowd with its style, quality and economy.An upgrade in 2005 added to its appeal, and a new model in 2007 cemented its place on the pop charts. Initially launched as a five-door hatch, a three-door hatch was added in 2008, but that was replaced in 2010 by a four-door sedan. Three models made up the offering, starting with the Neo as the base model, then the sporty Maxx and the range-topping Genki.Mazda optimised the cabin to make it as roomy, and as comfortable as possible given the 2's modest exterior dimensions.  With its upright seating positions and high roofline it could accommodate four adults in acceptable comfort.There was plenty of scope for moving the front seats back and forth to find a comfortable position for the driver and front seat passenger, and the rear seat occupants could also adjust their seat fore and aft as well as being able to adjust the rake. The boot is small, but given the size of the 2 it still holds a reasonable amount of gear.The performance is quite strong across all situations with its 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine showing plenty of pulling power and response across a broad range of engine speeds. Buyers could choose between a four-speed auto and a five-speed manual.The manual was the one to go for if you wanted the best get up and go, but the auto was the best overall choice even if it dulled the performance a little. The 2005 upgrade brought manual shifting to the auto, which made it a much more attractive option.On the road the 2 was highly rated for its ride and handling. Its roadholding and cornering were exemplary and the ride was firm but comfortable. The new model in 2007 brought bolder lines that made the 2 more appealing, the only downside being the slightly restricted rear vision with the revised beltline.NOWThe low complaint rate at Carsguide is an indicator that Mazda has got it pretty right with its new generation models. It's a solidly built car with a sound mechanical package and little seems to go wrong with it, at least of a serious nature.That's a good starting point, but that's all it ism as each cars needs to be thoroughly inspected before any money changes hands. The 2 is still relatively young, the earliest cars have only done 150,000 km or so, and later ones have yet to reach 50,000 km, but it's important to check the service history of any car under consideration.Oil changes are scheduled for every 10,000 km and it's vital that this routine is kept up. For some owners, the reliability of the 2 is an invitation to skip services and rely on the next owner to catch up. It doesn't work that way; only buy a car with a service history that stacks up.SMITHY SAYSIt's a keeper and you can buy with confidence. 4 stars.Mazda 2 2002-2011Price new: $6500 to $20,000Engine: 1.5-litre 4-cylinder, 82 kW/141 NmTransmission: 4-speed auto, 5-speed manual, FWDEconomy: 7.0 L/100 kmBody: 3-door hatch, 4-door sedan, 5-door hatchVariants: Neo, Maxx, GenkiSafety: 4-star ANCAP  

NEW - It was way back in the 1970s that the Golf GTi took over the hot-  hatch mantle from the Mini Cooper S, but VW has been able to do what   the Brits couldn't; keep it alive and thriving. Today's GTi is the hottest yet in a long line of hot hatches from the   German company. By any measure it's sizzling hot, and for many it's   the benchmark against which all others are measured.There can be no underestimating the fun of driving a GTi, and the   great thing is that it can be enjoyed day in and day out, on any   road, in any weather. Most people agree that there's no end to the   fun to be had with VW's great little hottie. For some the new model that lobbed here in 2005 was a case of   evolution rather than revolution, but why would you radically change   something that has worked so well.The GTi was readily distinguished from its more mundane brethren by   its lower stance, sportier front bumper, front foglights, distinct   grille, GTi badges and rear diffuser. When added up it comes to a   tough looking car. It came as a three-door and a five-door. In its three-door guise the   doors are a little longer and heavier, which means there's a bit of a   stretch back to the seat belt, but it also means easier access to the   rear seat.The engine is a bit of a fire-breather, a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-  cylinder unit that delivers all the grunt you could want when presented with an open road free of other traffic, yet at the same time it's docile enough the handle the daily trundle to work without complaint. The gearbox choices were a six-speed manual and the much maligned,   but improved, DSG six-speeder that was offered up as a fun-filled auto.A new diff lock was fitted to the new GTi, which was designed to   improve traction and battle understeer, two things that tend to bring   hot front-drivers back to Earth.NOWMost GTi owners swear by their cars, they usually say they'd never   switch. But like any car they can give trouble. With any hot hatch it's important to search for signs of hard use,   look at the tyres, the brakes and anything else that could come under   extreme pressure when worked hard.Same with the turbo engine, lift the oil filler cap and inspect for   sludge, and check the service book for records of regular oil changes. Thoroughly test drive the DSG gearbox, put it to the sword under all   sorts of driving conditions, observing for any miss-shifts, rough   shifts, shuddering etc. The funky gearbox can be fun to drive, but it   can be a nightmare if its goes wrong and there are plenty of stories   of things going wrong.For most owners the thrill-a-minute driving experience is enough to   forgive any issues that crop up. One owner we spoke to had had a 2005 model for six years and covered   130,000 km without any trouble to speak of, even with the DSG.He felt the DSG was a bit slow on the uptake in city driving when in   Drive and found that driving in manual was smoother. Another owner we spoke to is on his third GTi and so far all is going swimmingly. The DSG in his previous car had a problem with shuddering, but that was sorted out under warranty. Service costs, he told us, are higher than some cars, but then so are all European cars!SMITHY SAYSA great driver sometimes brought undone by its technology.Volkswagen Golf GTi 2005-2010Price new: $40,790 to $42,990Engine: 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbo, 147 kW/280 NmTransmission: 6-speed manual, 6-speed DSG, FWDEconomy: 8.1 L/100 km, PremiumBody: 3-door hatch, 5-door hatchVariants: GTiSafety: 5-star ANCAP