Articles by Graham Smith

Just when it seemed Suzuki was about to drop off the radar the company launched a whole new range of cars to kick-start its presence in the market.The rebirth if the brand began with the new Swift, which was greeted with great enthusiasm by the motoring press and public alike, and that was followed up by the SX4.  The sports-crossover SX4 had proved popular when launched in Europe and Japan and the company hoped it would restart sales here as well.MODEL WATCHInitially there was just one SX4 model, a cute four-wheel drive go-anywhere five-door hatch, but it was joined a few months later by front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive sedan and hatch variants.That first hatch was a pretty little car with neat, modern lines, and lots of glass for an airy cabin. By contrast the later sedan and hatch versions weren't as attractive with slabby sides and a rather clunky appearance.All models had a 2.0-litre double overhead camshaft four-cylinder engine, which boasted 107 kW at 5800 revs and 184 Nm at 3500 revs, enough to make it a willing performer for anyone prepared to stir it along through the gears.  The gearbox choices were a five-speed manual or four-speed auto, and both were geared to get the SX4 moving off the line.Final drive varied depending on the model. There were the regular front-wheel drive models, the all-wheel drive that drove through the front wheels with drive going to the rear on demand, and the four-wheel drive model.The latter used Suzuki's intelligent all-wheel drive system, which was controlled by an electromagnetic wet clutch and was selected using switch on the centre console.It could operate in front-wheel drive mode, active all-wheel drive mode, in which drive varied as needed from 95 per cent to the front to a 50/50 split front to rear, or as a locked diff with a fixed 50/50 split for better traction in the harder going.  Three models made up the range, including the base model, the S and the 4x4.All were quite well equipped. The base model boasted air-conditioning, power windows and mirrors, eight-speaker CD sound, remote central locking and immobilizer.  Once you took the step up to the S you also got cruise control, 15-inch alloys, fog lamps, and a leather steering wheel.At the top of the pile there was the 4x4 that had climate controlled air, 16-inch alloys, rear spoiler and cloth trim as well.IN THE SHOPWhile they've always been diminutive Suzukis have generally been reliable, thanks mainly to their quality engineering. The same can be said for the SX4.  Few complaints land at CarsGuide and readers tell us they're happy with their cars.The only time they see the inside of a workshop is when they're due for a service.  Servicing is very important on today's cars, which rely on fresh oil for a long life. Check for a service record that confirms regular oil and filter changes.  Also inspect the bodywork for damage that might be attributed to a crash.IN A CRASHThe SX4 had the basic safety features with dual front airbags, ABS brakes, brake force distribution and emergency brake assist across the range.  The S and the 4x4 hatch were better equipped than the base model; they also had side and curtain airbags.What was lacking across all models was stability control. When tested by ANCAP in 2007 the SX4 was awarded four stars out of a possible five.UNDER THE PUMPFuel economy was regarded as acceptable rather than special. Suzuki claimed it would average 9.5 L/100 km.OWNERS SAYWhen they road tested the SX4 Alec and Lynne Jones were immediately impressed by its comfortable, supportive seats, roomy cabin, easy-to-use controls, standing-start performance, and fuel economy. There only criticism is that they say the paint chips easily compared to cars they've previously owned. Everything else, they say, is excellent, and they rate it nine out of 10.Young mom Kim Maxwell downsized from a much-loved VS II Commodore Berlina V8 to a front-wheel drive Suzuki SX4 and after some misgivings about the Suzuki's size and four-cylinder engine she says the move was a great one.She loves the economy she gets, and says it has been perfectly reliable in the 37,000 km she has done to date. Her only criticisms are of the front quarter windows, which create a large black spot that requires care when making a turn, and the rear seat belts that aren't child seat friendly.If it weren't for the blind spots she would be happy to buy another one, but until Suzuki changes the design in that area she won't.LOOK FOR. Nippy performance. Good economy. Very reliable. Blind spots from front quarter windows . Four-star safetyTHE BOTTOM LINEA well-built and reliable small car that would serve the family well.  70/100Have you owned a SX4? Tell us your experience in the comments below.

Nissan hoped that the new Pathfinder, with its four-wheel drive capability and seven-seat cabin, would take it right up to the Toyota Prado and Mitsubishi Pajero.

You only have to look around you while parked in the daily traffic grind to know that Audi has made great strides in recent times; the multi-ringed badge of the German prestige brand is now a familiar sight on our roads. Where once Audis had a reputation for smoky engines and rusty bodywork they're now cars people

Being a prestige model the Passat was generously equipped with standard gear.

There's no doubt about it, the Koreans are on the rise, and there's no better example of their emergence as carmakers on the world stage than the NF Hyundai Sonata released in 2005.  At the time of its launch it was universally praised by motoring writers who reported that it was a marked step forward from what Hyundai had previously been producing.The new NF Sonata delivered the things that Hyundai had built its reputation on, things like a long features list and a value-for-money deal, but it also delivered a level of refinement and quality that had been lacking in earlier models from the big Korean carmaker.MODEL WATCHHyundai made no bones about it, they were looking to Europe in their efforts to improve its cars, and it showed in the NF Sonata.  It had to, of course, if it was to win sales from respected cars like the Toyota Camry, Mitsubishi 380 and Mazda6, all of which had a proven track record.Bigger, better looking, with six airbags and a choice of four and six- cylinder engines there was plenty to like about the Sonata.It still offered good value-for-money, but unlike earlier models the new Sonata didn't rely on that alone. It was well built, refined and smooth, and drove well.  Beyond the attractive skin the cabin offered ample room for five adults, the seats were comfy soft, and the boot was generous.The four-cylinder engine option was a 2.4-litre double overhead camshaft all-alloy unit that pumped out a solid 118 kW at 5800 revs and 219 Nm at 4250 revs that provided adequate get up and go. For more zip there was the option of a 3.3-litre V6, also an all- alloy unit with double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder and variable valve timing.That achieved peaks of 173 kW at 6000 revs and 304 Nm at 3500 revs, just a smidgeon short of the Commodore's V6 engine at the time.  The V6 was dropped from the range in 2008, at the same time a 2.0- litre four-cylinder turbo diesel engine was added to the list of engine choices in 2008 and that produced 110 kW and 305 Nm.Manual addicts were limited for choice in the Sonata range, as only the base four-cylinder model was available with the five-speed manual. All others had automatic transmissions.When the diesel arrived in 2008 it was available with either a six- speed manual or a four-speed auto. Final drive on all models was through the front wheels.Like its predecessors the Sonata was well equipped with all models boasting an enticing list of standard goodies. The base model had air, power windows, remote central locking and front fog lights, while the uprange Elite had leather trim, alloy wheels, a better sound system, an eight-way power driver's seat and reversing sensors.On the road the suspension tuning was something of a revelation, at least to most drivers who weren't interested in punting it along too hard when its weaknesses showed up. Otherwise it was smooth and comfortable, and most bumps were soaked up with ease, while the road holding and handling were competent.IN THE SHOPLike all cars from the Korean Peninsula the earlier Sonatas suffered from many and varied problems, but the NF substantially raised the bar and there are no serious problems that afflict it.  The improvement is no doubt due to more thorough development and improved build quality. The result is that buyers can do so with confidence.Even so, still look for a service record that can be verified and inspect for evidence of crash repairs.IN A CRASH With six airbags the Sonata was given a four-star rating by ANCAP in 2006.  All models had ABS antilock brakes and traction control, but prior to 2008 it was only the V6 models that boasted the active safety provided by electronic stability control. After that date all models had the important safety feature.UNDER THE PUMPThe four-cylinder Sonata, which was the popular choice, delivered around 10.0 L/100 km on average, the zippier V6 a little more at around 11.0 L/100 km.  Road testers at the time reported the V6 could average around 10.5 L/ 100 km.  The diesel would do 6.0-7.0 L/100 km depending on the transmission used.LOOK FORPleasant looks .Roomy cabin .Improved fit and finish .Economical engines .Smooth driveability .Good value-for-moneyTHE BOTTOM LINE Much-improved mid-sized Korean sedan with newfound refinement, smoothness, comfort and quality is well worth a look. 70/100Have you owned a Hyndai Sonata? Tell us your experience in the comments below.

Kia has lifted its game amazingly in the last five years with new models like the KM Sportage.

Volkswagen has come a long way from the one-car company that produced Beetles by the millions; it's now a vast multi-brand conglomerate producing a wide range of models competing in all segments of the market.The Tiguan was the first model the company produced for the compact SUV market, one of the fastest growing segments over the past few years. Like everything the company does, the German-built Tiguan was an understated, quality product that was aimed at being the best in the class.MODEL WATCHThere is no disputing that the SUV segment has been the boom segment in the market in recent years, and within that it's the medium-sized, more compact models that have done the real business. That's where the Tiguan entered the fray.While it was VW's first venture into the compact SUV market it was an understated entry, there were no bells and whistles, marching bands or hoopla to announce it. It simply slipped into the market with little fuss and looked like it had been there forever.It was typical of the segment with a simple, boxy shape that shouted practicality.The Tiguan's high riding stance made is easy to get in and out of the cabin, and once inside it was obvious the VW designers had made good use of the available space. Space in the rear is generous for two, but a bit of a squeeze for three.The rear seat can be adjusted fore and aft, and they also recline, so passengers have a good amount of room to find a comfortable position that suits them. Out back of the rear seat the luggage space is down on most of the Tiguan's rivals, but when the rear seat is not being used it can be folded flat to make a useful space for carrying larger items.VW offered a choice of one diesel engine or two petrol engines. The common rail diesel was a 2.0-litre double overhead camshaft four- cylinder engine with turbocharging that put out 103 kW at 4200 revs and 320 Nm from 1750 to 2500 revs.The TSi petrol engines were also 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged double overhead camshaft units, one put out 147 kW at 1500 revs and 280 Nm at 1700-5000 revs, the other 125 kW at 4300 revs and 280 Nm at 1700-4200 revs.With the diesel and the lesser petrol engines there was a choice of a six-speed manual gearbox or a six-speed auto, but when the more powerful petrol engine was chosen the only option was the six-speed auto.Final drive was via VW's 4Motion all-wheel drive system, which sent 90 percent of drive to the front wheels and engaged the rear wheels as required using a Haldex clutch in the rear differential.VW also offered an extra-cost option that altered the electronics of the 4Motion system at the touch of a button for more off-road capability. There was quite a comprehensive line-up of standard features on the diesel and lesser-powered petrol models, including semi-auto air, cruise, trip computer, power windows and remote central locking.The more powerful petrol model also had larger wheels, chrome roof rails, tinted rear windows, sports seats and a low tyre pressure indicator.IN THE SHOPWe received few, if any, complaints about the Tiguan, which is probably due to its high level of build quality and VW's overall reliability. Being relatively new to the market few would have racked up many kays, but to date the compact VW SUV is performing well in service.Before laying out any serious folding stuff check for a service record, and in the unlikely event a potential purchase appears to have been driven offroad carefully inspect underneath for possible damage to underbody, driveline, suspension and exhaust.IN A CRASHThe Tiguan had a full suite of safety features with front, side and curtain airbags that combined with the strong body to provide protection in a crash. At the same time it also had ABS antilock braking and electronic stability control. With all of that it was no surprise when ANCAP awarded the Tiguan five stars out of five for safety.UNDER THE PUMPThe 2.0-litre turbo diesel is the fuel miser in the range with claimed averages of 7.9 L/100 km for the auto and 7.4 L/100 km for the manual. Contemporary road tests reported fuel consumption between 7.0 and 9.5 L/100 km depending on the driving circumstances, with overall averages of around 8.5 L/100 km.VW claimed its petrol engines, which both required 98 octane fuel, were good for 9.1-10.1 for the 125 kW version and 10.1 for the 147 kW version.LOOK FORUnderstated looksFlexible, practical cabinDiesel/petrol optionsEconomicalGood fit and finishFive-star safety.THE BOTTOM LINEWith a high level of fit and finish, economical engines and five-star safety the Tiguan is the class act.RATING85/100Have you owned a Tiguan before? Tell us your experience in the comments below.

Mazda shunned the notion that a ute had to look like a car to appeal to recreational users who were buying one-tonne utes like the BT-50 in increasing numbers for their weekend getaways.The company believed a ute should still look tough and purposeful, and held true to that belief when designing the replacement for the old B-Series.Beneath the tough exterior, however, Mazda worked hard to ensure the BT-50 had a measure of the 'Zoom-Zoom' that proved so successful in reviving the image of its passenger cars.MODEL WATCHThe BT-50 was an all-new model with barely anything carried over from the outgoing B Series.  The model range consisted of 4x2 and 4x4 models, with three body styles - single cab-chassis, Freestyle extended cab and dual-cab utility - and three levels of equipment, the base model DX, the DX+ and the range-topping SDX.It had a strong, purposeful look that gave it a solid, substantial image, the result of raising the belt line 30 mm and the sides of the cargo bed by 60 mm.  The cabin was generally a pleasant place to be, the only criticism was that it lacked elbowroom compared to most of its rivals, all of which had grown larger with the changeover to the new generations models, of which the BT-50 was one.Mazda offered two diesel engines depending on the model. The entry-  level two-wheel drive single cab-chassis had a 2.5-litre common rail double overhead camshaft four-cylinder turbo diesel engine that produced 105 kW at 3500 revs and 330 Nm at 1800 revs.All other models were powered by a 3.0-litre common rail double overhead camshaft four-cylinder intercooled turbo diesel.  When on song the 3.0-litre developed 115 kW at 3200 revs and 380 Nm at 1800 revs, up by 33 kW and 109 Nm from the engine in the outgoing model.Most models had a new five-speed manual gearbox, but there was also the option of a five-speed auto in the range topping SDX Dual Cab.  The BT-50 was built in both two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive forms, the latter utilising a dual range transfer case and limited-slip rear diff.On manual models the transfer case shift was manual, and they had remote free-wheel hub lock mechanisms, while those with auto transmissions had an electric shift allowing "on the fly" shifting between two and four-wheel drive.  Underneath, the BT-50 sat on a beefed-up ladder frame chassis.Larger front and rear shocks, and longer rear leaf springs improved the ride without affecting the BT-50's capacity for work.  Mazda chose to stick with nut-and-ball steering instead of following the trend to rack-and-pinion; the result was a rather large 12-metre turning circle.Brakes were a mix of disc front and drum rear, but with improved pedal feel and braking efficiency. ABS antilock brakes and Electronic Brake Force Distribution were available on all but the entry 4x2 single cab-chassis model.The BT-50 would carry a payload of up 1430 kg, 59 kg more than the old B Series, and would tow up to 2500 kg (braked), up from the 1800 kg of the B Series.IN THE SHOP The BT-50 causes few concerns for owners, the only complaints that have come to Cars Guide relate to the fuel consumption and clutch life.Generally used to tow caravans or heavy trailers, and often using four-wheel drive, both are issues that all one-tonners can suffer from. The fuel consumption tends to be higher than new, first time owners expect.  Many first time owners also ask a lot of their one-tonners by expecting them to tow heavy loads.If planning to use a BT-50 as a tow vehicle hauling a caravan or the like consult a towing specialist for advice on set-up, particularly if the vehicle is equipped with auto transmission.  Also consider having the auto serviced before leaving on a long trip with a load on the back.Make the usual checks for regular servicing; oil changes are critical for a long engine life.  Look for evidence of a hard life, towing, off-road or on a worksite.IN A CRASHDual front airbags and seat belt pretensioners were standard across the range.  ANCAP gave the BT-50 three stars when it was tested.UNDER THE PUMPMazda claimed the 2.5-litre models would sip fuel at the rate of 8.3 L/100 km, they also claimed the 3.0-litre models would average 9.2-10.4 L/100 km.  When tested by Cars Guide the 3.0-litre manual dual-cab ute returned an impressive 8.8 L/100 km average in a mix of city and country driving.OWNERS SAYSome owners have complained about the fuel consumption of the BT-50, but Mike Bradshaw told Cars Guide that he got an average of 10.0 L/  100 km from his 2009 model on a four-month long trip through the WA and the Northern Territory. Mike said that it was loaded to 2.6-  tonne, using four-wheel drive, and with the air-conditioning on.Frank Murray has done 21,000 km in his 2008 3.0-litre BT-50 and they have been trouble free, but he is concerned about the clutch life of the BT-50 after hearing stories of others having clutch issues. One owner, he said, was on his third clutch in 50,000 km, and another had to replace one at 40,000 km.LOOK FORTough truck looksImproved refinementSkinny cabinDiesel economyTowing performanceTHE BOTTOM LINEPerforms well, is comfortable, quiet and economical, but a little narrow in the cab. 82/100

Ford was so focused on getting the BA Falcon to market it pushed the first Focus into the background.

Spiralling petrol prices mostly fuelled the demand for affordable, well-built small cars that were economical and practical, and Toyota responded with the Yaris.The Yaris took over from the Echo as the starter model in the Toyota range, but it represented a huge step forward in the small car class.MODEL WATCH While the Echo was popular and offered the usual Toyota qualities of build quality and reliability it was still a bare bones small car built for people who couldn't afford anything bigger.The Yaris was bigger than the Echo and brought with it a new level of refinement for those who chose to drive small.There was also plenty of choice in the Yaris range, with a selection of three-door and five-door hatch body styles, and a four-door sedan, and three levels of equipment.With a curvy, sculptured shape the Yaris presented a fresh, vibrant face to the small car world when it was launched in 2005, and it has remained so six years later.Despite its small size the Yaris offered a surprising amount of room and comfort thanks to some clever packaging and efficient use of space.A high, upright seating position created a roomy cabin with generous headroom and ample knee room, even in the rear.Not only was the cabin roomy for four - it was a squeeze for five - but it was also quite practical with the rear seat able to slide and fold to liberate a decent amount of space to carry bulkier items in the rear.Storage throughout the cabin was also generous with 25 storage compartments to swallow all manner of smaller items.The range starter YR was powered by a 1.3-litre double overhead camshaft four-cylinder engine that gave 63 kW at 6000 revs and 121 Nm at 4400 revs, the other models had a 1.5-litre double overhead cam engine that delivered 80 kW at 6000 revs and 141 Nm at 4200 revs.There was also a choice of a five-speed manual gearbox and a four- speed auto, and drive was through the front wheels.On the road the 1.3-litre engine, while adequate for the task, lost some of its edge when connected to the auto.With more punch the 1.5-litre got the job done more comfortably with either gearbox and was more pleasant to drive as a result.Equipment levels were quite good with even the base model having air, remote central locking, CD sound, and power windows, mirrors and steering.IN THE SHOP There has been little complaint from Yaris owners suggesting they are content with their lot.With little to be concerned about potential buyers should focus on the service side and check to make sure their potential buy has seen the inside of a service shop every 10,000 km or six months as Toyota recommends.Once that's established start looking closely at the body for signs of crash damage that hasn't been repaired well. Mismatching colours, overspray, oddly coloured window tinting that doesn't match the other windows, doors, bonnets and hatches that don't open and close smoothly are some of the giveaways to look for.Listen for clunks and rattles inside and out when driving, and make sure the transmissions shift readily without hesitation.IN A CRASH All models had the safety basics of dual front airbags and antilock brakes, but there was also an optional Enhanced Safety Pack that added front side and curtain airbags along with a knee airbag for the driver for comprehensive crash coverage.ANCAP gave the small Toyota a creditable four stars in its base form, but five stars when equipped with the safety pack.AT THE PUMP It's came as no surprise that the Yaris was an economical little car, after all that was one of Toyota's design objectives.Toyota claimed the 1.5-litre models would do an average of 6.1 L/100 km with the manual gearbox and 6.7 L/100 km with the auto.Having to haul the same body as the larger engine the 1.3-litre models were only marginally more economical at 6.0 L/100 km in manual form and 6.5 L/100 km in auto guise.Road testers recorded figures slightly higher than that, the 1.5- litre models typically giving around 7.0-7.2 L/100 km.LOOK FOR . Fresh looksRoomy cabinQuiet and comfortableZippy 1.5-litre performanceOptional safety packToyota build qualityTHE BOTTOM LINE A step up in class, drives smoothly, is quiet, roomy and comfortable. 80/100