Articles by Jake Williams

Ford has confirmed that a manual transmission is not on the table for Australian Focus models, aside from the hot ST and possible future RS.In a disappointing move for enthusiast drivers, the new Focus will continue to be sold with an eight-speed automatic transmission as the only choice available to local buyers. The Focus has traditionally been the enthusiast’s pick in the segment because of its sporty driving dynamics. Local Ford spokesperson Damion Smy confirmed to CarsGuide that the company intends to offer only the ST as a manual locally. “For Australia, we offer the eight-speed automatic exclusively on the core Focus range – there are no plans for a manual in the main range,” Mr Smy said.“In early 2020, we will introduce both manual and automatic on the Focus ST, which will be the first time the ST has been offered in auto.” The newest variant to Australia, the Focus wagon, will also remain in mid-level ST-Line spec with its sports styling, sports seats and 17-inch alloy wheels. “The wagon will remain ST-Line in Australia, too,” Mr Smy added.Australian Ford Focus sales in March were up 38.9 per cent on March 2018 thanks to a new model. While the model is still new, it’s a promising start to this generation’s life in Australia considering the small car market is down 18.1 per cent over this time last year.  

Volkswagen Australia has confirmed a price-leading 110TSI variant of the five-seat Tiguan and seven-seat Tiguan Allspace will rejoin local showrooms in the third quarter of 2019. Culled in 2018 thanks to Europe’s then-new WLTP emissions testing protocol, the 110TSI variants of the Tiguan and Tiguan Allspace served as price-leaders in both ranges. The Allspace 110TSI was cut in October 2018.Volkswagen Australia spokesperson Paul Pottinger confirmed the launch of new Tiguan variants to CarsGuide.“Both Tiguan and Tiguan Allspace 110TSI are back in the shops in the third quarter of 2019,” Mr. Pottinger said, adding the company also isn’t sure when the former diesel 140TDI variants - also culled due to WLTP - would return.“There’s no word yet on the 140TDI’s return to Australian shores as WLTP delays render the return date uncertain.”At launch in 2016, the 110kW/250Nm 1.4-litre turbo-petrol 110TSI drivetrain was available in both Trendline and Comfortline variants, though the Tiguan Allspace wasn’t launched with a Trendline variant when it reached Australia in 2018. The Trendline variant was cut from the five-seater at the same time in a range shuffling, which added more equipment to both remaining model grades. Thanks to rules surrounding the WLTP emissions changes, Volkswagen was able to offer the 110TSI engine in the Tiguan Allspace for close to a year longer than the five-seat model because the Allspace is Mexican-built. This meant the seven-seat Allspace opened at a lower price than the regular model.At $40,490, the Tiguan Allspace 110TSI Comfortline was priced $5000 below the 132TSI Comfortline due to its lack of all-wheel drive, providing a guideline for the 110TSI’s price (in both bodystyles) when it relaunches later this year.Currently priced from $43,150 plus on-road costs, the 2019 Tiguan range opens a significant $11,160 higher than the 2016 model. We predict a circa-$38,000 opening price for the five-seat 110TSI Comfortline, which will align it with rivals such as the $35,590 Mazda CX-5 Maxx Sport FWD, the $37,850 Hyundai Tucson Elite 2.0 and $33,290 Honda CR-V VTi-S 2WD. 

A few months after releasing the updated Multivan passenger van, Volkswagen has facelifted the Transporter van ahead of a first quarter 2020 Australian release.Featuring revised styling, new technology and fresh drivetrains, the updated Transporter range follows the Multivan closely with updated headlight and tail-light designs, revised multimedia systems and upgraded active safety tech. Using the same dashboard layout as the updated Multivan, the new Transporter is more modern inside with new dials, new materials, a new multimedia system taken from the latest Passat, a new steering wheel and more storage compartments littered throughout. However, pictures released point to a downgrade in available tech from the Multivan - the brand’s digital dials are unavailable, as is the larger 9.2-inch multimedia screen that debuted in the Golf 7.5. However, the Transporter's cabin is still a big step up on the model it replaces. Volkswagen has updated the Transporter’s driving experience with a new electro-mechanical power steering system, as well as lane keep assist, automatic parking, trailer assist, road sign recognition and cross-wind assist. New powerplants are also available in the 2019 Transporter, with a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel available in various states of tune ranging from 66kW to 145kW. Like the Multivan, an electric version of the Transporter is also available, with an 82kW motor fed by a 77.6kWh battery pack for an estimated 400km range.  

Lexus has teased a new eight-seat people mover that’s due to be revealed at the 2019 Shanghai motor show on April 16th. Reportedly called the LM and based on the Toyota Alphard, which isn't sold in Australia, the Lexus MPV is unlikely to be sold outside of Asia. The Lexus LM is expected to be offered with either a 3.5-litre petrol V6 engine badged LM350, or with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder hybrid as the LM300h. Both drivetrains come straight from the Alphard, and all-wheel drive will be available optionally for buyers to choose.So far, just two teaser images has been released, which depict the company's corporate spindle grille next to slim LED headlights. The rest of the car follows the Alphard’s boxy styling, though with Lexus cues such as a chrome window line and multi spoke alloy wheels.Known for luxurious cabins and middle row captain's chairs, large MPVs like the Toyota Alphard and Nissan Elgrand are the vehicles of choice for business people throughout Asia, holding a level of status that is beyond limousines in certain markets such as Thailand (where these vans can run to the equivalent of AUD$220,000). While the Alphard and Elgrand aren't officially sold in Australia, North America and Europe, sizeable grey import markets exist for such models thanks to their practicality and interior space. Although the Lexus LM would unlikely be sold in Australia because of our small people mover market, countries such as China and Taiwan still sell many and with the Alphard and its Vellfire twin already popular in those regions, a more expensive and more luxurious Lexus variant is almost a no-brainer considering the low cost of development.If Lexus were to sell the LM outside of Asia, it could offer an intriguing alternative to the Volkswagen Multivan and Mercedes-Benz V-Class. 

Lexus Australia has released pricing and specifications for the new RC F Track Edition, as well as the updated RC F, which will be in Lexus dealers in May.Based on the standard RC facelift, which is already on sale in Australia, the RC F is priced from $134,129 plus on-road costs (-$3,600), while the RC F Track Edition is priced from $165,690. The RC F has faced a number of revisions to make it more comfortable, yet sharper to drive according to Lexus. Improved aerodynamics with greater downforce aids handling, while lighter suspension components, firmer steering control, a freer-breathing and lighter engine, as well as a more intuitive transmission and grippier tyres make the RC F even quicker than before.Like the pre-update RC F, the 2019 model uses the company’s 351kW/530Nm 5.0-litre petrol V8 engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The engine has been revised for 2019 with a lighter intake and new intake piping and meets Euro 6 emissions standards. As before, power is sent to the rear wheels.The car’s revised styling helps its aerodynamics, while new LED headlights and a wider grille “further emphasise the car’s wide stance”, according to Lexus.New for the 2019 model year is the track-honed RC F Track Edition, which includes a number of parts to provide superior agility and most importantly for the company, superior track driving handling and lower lap times. The RC F Track Edition includes Brembo carbon-ceramic disc brakes (380mm front and rear) with 19-inch BBS alloy wheels to reduce weight by 25kg. A titanium exhaust further reduces the weight of the car by 6.0kg, while increasing the engine’s noise as well.A carbon-fibre roof, rear diffuser, lower rocker panel, front spoiler, rear wing and rear-seat brace help shed another 65kg of weight, with a kerb weight of 1,715kg. Lexus claims the RC F Track Edition hits 100km/h in 4.3 seconds, and points out that it is the quickest Lexus since the LF-A.2019 Lexus RC pricing (MSRP): RC F: $134,129RC F Track Edition: $165,690Options (RC F):Enhancement Pack 1 (19-inch polished alloy wheels, sunroof): $5,000Enhancement Pack 2 (19-inch dark alloy wheels, sunroof): $5,000Enhancement Pack 3 (19-inch BBS alloy wheels, Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes, titanium exhaust, carbon fibre cabin ornamentation, sunroof): $29,161

Not long after the debut of the AMG A35 sedan, Mercedes-AMG has revealed another new entry-level model in the form of the four-door coupe CLA35. Using the same 225kW/400Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine as the A35 sedan and hatchback, the CLA35 hits 100km/h in just 4.9 seconds and is electronically limited to 250km/h. Like other A-Class and CLA models, the CLA35 uses a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission with launch control.As with the A35, the CLA35 features the company’s '4Matic' all-wheel drive system, which “combines the best possible traction with lots of driving fun.” It offers as much as a 50:50 split of power front to rear, while the torque distribution is infinitely variable across each axle. As with the A35, five driving modes are included that change the character of the car through the stability program, throttle response, suspension stiffness, transmission mapping and steering weight. Slippery, comfort, sport, sport+ and individual modes are available - the last allows drivers to choose their own settings.The steering rack has also been AMG-enhanced, with a special rack for sportier steering feedback. New four-piston calipers and 350mm front/330mm rear brake discs are also fitted for enhanced braking ability. The exhaust system features an automatically controlled exhaust flap, which makes the car’s noise louder or softer depending on the driving mode selected.Based on the A35, the CLA35 is “even bolder with its iconic design”, according to Mercedes-Benz. Based on the swoopy new CLA, the design of the CLA35 is more aggressive than the A35 sedan, with larger air intakes at the front, more stylised side skirts and large dual tailpipes with a lip spoiler. The interior of the CLA35 follows the same path as the A35, with a number of sporty details including AMG sports seats, 64-colour LED ambient lighting and red piping on the seats and red rings on the ventilation nozzles further enhancing the racy vibe in the cabin.Standard equipment is Mercedes’ 'MBUX' multimedia system, which replaces the previous system and incorporates two screens under one large window. MBUX features a more personalised user experience with a ‘hey Mercedes’ voice command. In the CLA35, it also features a 360-degree parking camera, and a customisable digital instrument cluster with three AMG display styles.Confirmed for Australian release in the fourth quarter of 2019, Mercedes-AMG is confident in the 35's local sales potential.According to spokesperson Ryan Lewis, Mercedes-Benz Australia is "confident the CLA35 will be met with a warm reception.""This is not only due to the strength of the AMG brand in this segment but also because the second-generation CLA has grown in size and brings a raft of new technology," he said.

Australian pricing and specifications for the Genesis G80 have been confirmed ahead of the car’s on-sale date in June.The first product to be launched in Australia under the Genesis brand, the G80 - a rebadged and updated Hyundai Genesis that launched locally in 2014 - is priced from $68,900, plus on-road costs. Like its Hyundai former self, the G80 is well equipped for the money.Standard fare includes a 9.2-inch multimedia system with a 360-degree parking camera, satellite navigation, leather upholstery, a 900W 17-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, wireless phone charging, 18-inch alloy wheels, adaptive suspension, heated front seats, and LED front and rear lighting. A full suite of active safety kit also features, including nine airbags, autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, automatic high beam, lane departure warning, rear cross traffic alert and adaptive cruise control with stop and go functionality. Above the entry G80 is the Ultimate, priced from $88,900. The Ultimate adds larger 19-inch alloy wheels, nappa leather upholstery, a 16-way power driver’s seat with memory functionality, four-way adjustable rear seats, heated and ventilated front and rear outboard seats, a heated steering wheel, acoustic glass, a panoramic sunroof, rear side window curtains, a head-up display with a 7.0-inch instrument cluster, a CO2 sensor, an air ironiser and illuminated front scuff plates.Available for the G80 and G80 Ultimate is a 'Sport Design' package, which includes dark 19-inch alloy wheels, a dark chrome sports grill, sportier front and rear bumpers, dark satin chrome door frame moldings and door handle inserts, brushed aluminium pedals and swaps LED headlights for bi-xenon units with static cornering lights. Regardless of model chosen, a 232kW/397Nm 3.8-litre petrol V6 engine drives the rear wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission and four different driving modes: normal, eco, sport and snow. Fuel data for the 2019 model is yet to be released, but will likely remain similar to the 2017 model’s 11.2L/100km combined cycle rating. 2019 Genesis G80 pricing (MSRP): G80: $68,900G80 Sport Design: $72,900G80 Ultimate: $88,900G80 Ultimate Sport Design: $92,900The Genesis Australian launch has been pushed back multiple times over the past three years thanks to Hyundai Australia's need to launch the brand correctly in our market. The brand’s flagship showroom is still under development in the Sydney CBD. While the G80 is the first cab off the Genesis rank in Australia, the smaller G70 - a BMW 3 Series competitor - will launch not long after the G80, and a range of SUVs is also due within the next few years.  

Kia Australia has added a new Cerato Si to the local range, which is priced from $24,290, plus on-road costs.

Given the popularity of small hatchbacks like the Toyota Corolla and Mazda 3, it’s inevitable that at some point, owners are going to want to upsize their automotive choice thanks to the addition of kids, more active lifestyles or older family members in their lives.With that in mind, here are five segments and three cars within each segment that you should consider when upsizing. Mid-size SUVs are popular because of their size, their interior space and their value for money for growing families. The mid-size SUV class is split into smaller and larger halves, with two distinct sizes offering varying levels of interior space. If you haven’t been bitten by the SUV bug, there’s a lot to be said for a mid-size sedan or wagon in terms of cabin length and width. The only thing you miss out on is the raised driving position, and that taller folk may find it harder to load child seats in.For some medium cars aren’t large enough for daily life, and a bigger car is needed. Enter larger SUVs, which offer a lot of interior space for both people and luggage. An emerging category are cars that offer the same width of medium SUVs but with extra length to fit extra luggage and two extra seats.Above 5+2 seat SUVs are proper seven-seat large SUVs, which seat adults in the third row in comfort, as well as comfortably accommodating grandma and two baby seats. Large SUVs are also often more luxurious than their smaller sibling models on the inside. 

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles have announced a large scale investment as part of its 'Grip 2025+' strategy.Billed as the most extensive change in the history of the brand, Volkswagen Commercial aims to transform the company from a pure carmaker into a "mobility service provider" with new products, revamped factories and a wider audience reach.Speaking at a conference in Hannover in Germany, CEO of Volkswagen’s Commercial division, Dr. Thomas Sedran, said that company must adapt to consumer trends in order to survive."Our strategy is a response to changes in the industry – we will transform ourselves from a pure carmaker to a mobility service provider,” he said.“We as a whole industry are facing the biggest change in our history - e-mobility, digitisation, autonomous driving, as well as this trend towards new transportation systems.”“We are developing from a pure carmaker to a mobility provider. To this end, we are investing more than 1.8 billion euros this year."Coming off the best sales results the brand has ever achieved, Volkswagen Commercial is beginning 2019 with investments in both product and its production facilities in Hannover."We can shape the transformation at the peak of the industry, because we are financially strong and can exploit synergies within the Group.”The brand also formally addressed its new alliance with Ford, which will see the two companies co-develop commercial vehicles together, including the next-generation of Amarok and Ranger, a new shared city-sized van and further develop Ford’s Argo autonomous driving brand.“Volkswagen and Ford compliment each other perfectly in our regional strengths - as you know, Ford is strong in North America, while we are strong in Europe. In the future, production capacities will be bundled, that way the different demands of our customers can be better served and production will be in larger volumes, allowing scalability and cost savings.”Over 500,000 Volkswagen Commercial vehicles were delivered to customers in 2018, with particularly strong sales coming from South America and Europe, though political unrest in Turkey affected results in the Middle East.