Articles by Peter Barnwell

Finally some evidence Honda is not sitting on its technological hands with the appearance of a new turbo-diesel Civic. It's from Honda’s “Earth Dreams” program much like Mazda's SkyActiv and numerous other ‘green’ technology programs used increasingly by just about every manufacturer.They've had diesel Civics in the UK (where it's made) and Europe for yonks but the local Honda arm didn't think it would sell here. We'll see.At $26,990, it's a better proposition than many of the European diesels and every bit as good as the Koreans though with a six-speed manual only, broader appeal might elude it.They've fitted plenty of kit too with dual zone climate control, Bluetooth phone and audio, multiple info display, reverse camera, auto wipers and headlights and a noise cancelling system inside to reduce engine and road noise (works a treat).The Honda kicks out impressive power and torque for a 1.6-litre turbodiesel achieving 88kW/300Nm with fuel economy on the combined cycle rated at 4.0-litres/100km. It's a new all-alloy engine employing a new generation Garret turbo with variable nozzle control pressurising incoming air at 1.5bar.That partly explains why the Civic DTi-S has so much get-go. Once underway, acceleration is not a problem though it’s a little tardy off the mark. The six-speed manual is sweet enough but not in the same league as the Honda CR-Z we just had.The Civic DTi-S has plenty of systems to optimise performance and fuel economy while minimising emissions. The six-speed manual transmission is purpose-built for efficiency under the Earth Dreams program. Civic DTi-S has auto stop/start, fuel economy driver ‘coaching’ systems and economy calibrations for the engine and other mechanical functions on the car.We will have this car for three months and drive it about 6000km so the; assist driver coaching system will be an interesting experience. We are already engaged with the car's astonishing fuel economy and continually try to better it having already seen 4.0 easily. Why you'd buy the Civic Hybrid is beyond us.We like the looks outside (secret rear door handles and all) as well as inside which seems a cut above other Civics though similar in design. It's a practical thing too with Honda's clever ‘Magic Seat’ system in the back offering one touch access to numerous seat layouts.It seems this car will sip ridiculously small amounts of fuel and goes really well while having the capacity for five adults in its five door hatchback body. Perhaps we should challenge ourselves and see how much fuel we don't put in this car...Once the word gets out about the car's economy, performance and price we predict it will do well.

We wouldn't mind being a courier/delivery driver in the Peugeot Expert van because apart from going extremely well, it's much like a passenger car to drive.That's by design because Peugeot wanted a vehicle that appealed to the target audience, most of whom complained of the “commercial vehicle” traits of their vehicle. In other words, hard, noisy, high riding, uncomfortable and ugly. Not good if you spend your days behind the wheel.ENGINE AND TRANSMISSIONExpert uses the same 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine as the Pug 308 and other models in the French manufacturer's range. In this case, it achieves 120kW/340Nm output - ample to motivate the 1758kg van and up to 1200kg of payload in the two pallet, 6.0 cubic metre, load space.Fuel economy is rated at 7.2-litres/100km on the combined cycle and there's 80 litres to play with in the tank. And if you tick the auto transmission box, you get a sweet shifting six-speed powertrain with heaps of punch from right off idle up through to higher speeds. A six speed manual is available if you must.DESIGNIn terms of working applications, the Expert is handy offering a low ride height, twin glazed rear barn doors with a wiper and washer apiece as well as left and right side slider giving access to the load floor. Remote central locking is fitted as well as remote cargo space unlock and remote fuel flap locking. There's a driver protection barrier behind the seat and three pews in the widish cabin.PRICE AND FEATURESThe price is $38,990 which is on the mark for the segment, a few grand more than Renault's Trafic and the Hyundai iLoad, a couple less than other contenders. Standard equipment includes cruise, air conditioning, heated exterior mirrors, numerous storage bins including overhead in the passenger compartment.The audio is OK and it has Bluetooth phone and a USB port. Eight tie down lugs are provided on the load floor which is lined up to half height. We really appreciated the remote headlight height adjuster and the full size spare.  We couldn't ascertain Expert's safety rating, but suffice to say with one air bag and an optional passenger bag it isn't going to get five stars.DRIVINGPeugeot Expert might not be pretty but it sure is comfy and easy to live with. You sit lower than most vans and it's just like a car to get into and out of. The wheel is position car-like and the controls are either on the wheel, on wands around it or in the centre console which also houses the transmission selector.You can actually recline the seat a fair way and adjust the driving position for comfort over a long run. If the interior wasn't all practical, hard grey plastic (by necessity), it could be a Peugeot passenger car. The level of performance from the turbodiesel engine takes you by surprise when you boot it off the lights.Our auto Expert was impressive in the go department as it drives like a passenger vehicle when unladen. It has a long wheelbase and a long body but the turning circle isn't too big. The Expert was pressed into home moving detail and proved to be nearly ideal except for moving the fridge (not high enough).

The re-appearance of a Nissan Pulsar in sedan and hatchback variants is welcome as it caters for a wide audience on a budget who want a reliable, practical, economical and well specified car.They call Pulsar a "small" car but the new model is dimensionally more towards medium size, especially in terms of rear seat legroom and boot space. It actually looks like a scaled down Nissan Maxima in sedan form right down to the profile, boot lid shape and front face.And you can get into one right now for $19,990 drive away for the car we drove — an ST manual sedan. That represents a lot of car for the money — a five seat sedan with a full safety suite and an engine that will sip minimal fuel while delivering respectable performance.Adequate power comes from a 96kW/174Nm, 1.8-litre, four-cylinder, long stroke, petrol engine. With variable valve timing in the inlet and exhaust sides, we've seen something similar to this for yonks. It's relatively simple and honest, improved no end with the Xtronic CVT transmission.Some clever technology finds it way inside the engine in the form of  'beehive' valve springs to reduce friction and inertial loss. Nissan says the CVT equipped Pulsar consumes as little as 6.7-litres/100km while the manual goes through a tad more.The new Pulsar's body/chassis is suitably strong and helps the car achieve a five star crash rating as do a range of secondary safety features - air bags, side reinforcements, child restraints and so forth.From the driver's seat, you look at a relatively standard dash with some wow factor in the backlighting and pleasing curves to break up the shape. The overall result looks  good and is easy to use.It's half a decent handling device, a bit roly-poly when pushed but capable of delivering comfort and control in mixed driving environemts. The front suspension is by strut, the rear is a simple torsion beam arrangement. Steering is electro-hydraulic. The strong chassis also cuts noise and vibration which both at low levels in the new Pulsar.Pity the six-speed manual version has what we call throttle flair — when the engine revs don't immediately drop when you change gears. It's an annoying trait that is becoming more prevalent and even plagues the new Toyota Corolla manual. Answer, get the CVT auto, it's a better drive anyway and just as economical.All Pulsar models come with a multi-function steering wheel adjustable for both reach and height as standard. Nissan says "Pulsar's comprehensive audio system remains one of the best in its segment." It's OK especially the peripherals like Bluetooth and multi-media connectivity.We don't mind the new Pulsar as an everyday hack. It's 'honest', not too bad to look at, roomy and very well specified. Only trouble is there's a new Mazda3 coming said to be a cracking good thing and the new Corolla is also a super strong contender... 

Peugeot's Audi TT clone, the RCZ has been rejuvenated with a new look and slight spec' adjustment and remains an eminently desirable car to own, drive and look at.PRICEAvailable in 1.6 turbo petrol manual and auto, and a 2.0-litre turbo diesel all for the one price of $58,990, the sexy Pug undercuts Audi's entry TT 1.8 coupe by some $6500.Better still is the fact that there are no options or option packs to gouge your wallet. It's the way cars should be sold - fully equipped and that's it.The 'new' one has a more aggressive look to its face and flanks due to a new grille and bumper, selective use of highlight paints and matt black roof arches instead of a bright aluminium finish.It scores a set of striking 19-inch alloys, LED driving lights, active bixenon headlights with remote height adjustment and pop-up satnav inside. Other than that's it's pretty much the same as before.Interior decor is to luxury sports level with leather, a flat bottom wheel, multiple wheel controls by satellite stalks and a classy dash design with easy to use buttons and a premium audio system. The active rear spoiler remains as does the double bubble roof and rear glass.ENGINE AND TECHNOLOGYWe got hold of the manual 1.6-litre turbo petrol with 147kW/275Nm output. The same engine is used in numerous vehicles from Peugeot, BMW and Mini. It's one of the best small capacity four cylinder petrol units around right now offering strong, flexible performance, reasonably good fuel economy at 6.9-litres/100km and super smooth running. But we can't figure out why the six-speed auto is down tuned to a measly 115kW.Driver assist features include front and rear park assist, hill hold, cruise control with speed limiter, speed sensing power steering, electric seat adjust and auto headlights and wipers. None of the latest 'interventionist' driver assist functions are available such as lane keeping, radar cruise and auto brake. Safety is five star with all that entails - air bags, stability control and so forth.DRIVINGWe took the RCZ for a good long drive over a week and really enjoyed the experience. It is a glamorous looking thing, better this time around though we still like the arcing silver roof rails on the first model.The engine is a pearl, not super powerful but with enough get go to put a smile on your face.The manual change is sweet and the car's drive feel the same - sweeeeet. It has a pleasing exhaust burble but is quiet on a steady throttle. There are seats for four inside though you'd want to be of small stature to get into the rear ones. In the front seats, the RCZ is sumptuous.Dynamics are sharp and controlled. It sits flat as a tack no matter how fast you push through corners and the steering tells you precisely what's going on up front. Ride quality is near perfect - not too firm, not too soft.VERDICTWe really like the RCZ and don't really know why more haven't been sold. They are simply not on the radar.  That may change when the RCZ-R arrives here later this year with a potent 200kW engine up front. Can't wait.

Chinese manufacturer Chery had been hamstrung in Australia by not having stability control on its cars. The safety system is mandatory in Victoria and looks likes being mandatory elsewhere soon. Chery has a three car range here - the J1, J3 and J11. Price and equipment The price for the auto is $15,990 drive away,

Subaru's BRZ has been a huge hit with enthusiast drivers who no doubt revel in the classic front engine/rear wheel drive layout, razor sharp dynamics and stunning style.They've chalked up 1000 sales of BRZ in the 18 months since it arrived probably the entire Aussie allocation. But to give more sizzle to the sporty Soob and keep the BRZ front of mind with the right people, Subaru has introduced a Sports Pack priced at $7995 for the manual BRZ, less for the auto, that adds a swag of goodies to enhance the cars looks and feel. Not the performance though.DESIGNYou get trick STi branded black alloys, black body aero spoilers all the way around and a rear diffuser, lowered springs, quicker gear change mechanism on the manual, push button start and a strut bar. It makes a stand out car stand out even more but thankfully is not over the top. Everything else about BRZ remains the same.ENGINE AND TRANSMISSIONThere's a reasonable amount of go from the 2.0-litre naturally aspirated boxer four,  rated at 147kW/205Nm - for general traffic driving under about 4000rpm but nothing to really light you up anywhere else. Rev it out to the 7000rpm plus redline and it goes OK, makes more noise but...Where's the turbo?DRIVINGThe point we would make right now is that it needs more herbs from under the bonnet. The car doesn't have the performance required, nay, commanded by its looks. Any half decent hatchback would stay on the BRZ's tail in a straight line. Not around the corners though.We would spend the eight grand on a decent turbo installation and leave the car stock. It's already well ahead of the pack dynamically in standard spec'. We had a good old drive of the beast, commuting, highway cruising and corner carving. Needless to say, everything gels during the latter except for the fact that you have to keep the right foot planted and the engine percolating about five grand plus to make it sing.It has the same kilowatt output as the old Nissan 200SX but less torque and is slower. An 200SX would give the Soob a really hard time on the straights and around the corners, even an old one and especially if it had a helical limited slip diff'. But the Soob is flavour of the month together with Toyota's equivalent 86.The Sport's suspension is pretty hard for everyday use too though that could be because we are getting soft in old age. There's no lumbar support adjustment that causes curvature of the spine on a longish drive. The engine/exhaust note is a mere wuffle. The front apron hangs up easily on driveways or parking buffers. And we would point a finger at the lack of satnav in a sports coupe costing $45,150. There … we are ready for the hate mail, but it's all true.VERDICTThey look the ‘biz’ and we reckon the Sooby goes a bit better because they pick all the 00 tolerances from the components department. They do after all make both cars.Subaru BRZ S 2.0-litre two-door coupePrice: from $45,145 (manual), $46,925 (automatic)Engine: 2.0 litre four cylinder, 147kW/205NmTransmission: 6-speed manual or automatic, RWDKerb weight: 1256 kg (manual), 1278 kg (automatic)Turning circle: 10.8 m kerb to kerbFuel tank capacity: 50 litres0-100 km/h: 7.6 seconds (manual) 8.2 seconds (automatic)Thirst: 7.8L/100km CO2 181g/km (manual), 7.1L/100km 164g/km (automatic)Wheels: 17-inch alloys

There's no point in expecting objective criticism from us of the new Benz E-Coupe and Cabriolet because we are blinded by beauty. The previous model was arguably one of Benz's best lookers and this has carried through to the latest model.It still has a tantalising mix of “sexy and strong” about its flanks and is now a better value proposition with a new E200 variant slipping in under the $80 grand mark. All the other models have more kit than their predecessors and are priced sharper in most cases. But you'll pay quite a lot more to go roofless in the Cabriolet.DISTINCTIVEThe new E-Coupe and Cabrio' have distinctive carry-over features - no B pillar for example, a seat belt feeder so you don't have top stretch and proper rear seats large enough for adults. The Cabrio is a classic soft top design with roof operation taking only 20 seconds up or down at speeds up to 40kmh.The fabric roof itself is three layers thick forming an effective barrier to noise, wind and cold. And the Cabrio' scores Benz's “airscarf” neck warming system (optional on the 200) that feeds warm air up through piping inside each front seat. Both soft and hard top two doors have 11 air bags while the Cabrio' has twin retractable roll bars and additional chassis strengthening.MID-MODELThis isn't a ground-up new gen' car but is an extensive mid-model make-over which includes a totally redesigned nose in the current Benz idiom, new lights, bumpers, grille, bonnet and other stuff. “Intelligent” LED headlights are standard from the 250 model up. The stylish interior of both soft and hard top models is to a high-end luxury standard with some classic features like the analogue clock and a selection of fascia and dash finishes.Full internet connectivity is provided along with keyless go, 19-inch alloys, thermatic climate control, and driver assistance features such as Distronic Plus cruise control with speed limiter and steering assist, active park assist, active blind spot assist, cross traffic assist, attention assist and Pre-safe Plus collision preparation. It also has Pre-safe brake assist with active pedestrian protection. Steering is now electro-hydraulic offering a range of responses from light and quick to sporty and firm.ENGINESPower comes from a 2.0-litre, direct injection, turbo petrol in 135kW/300Nm (E200 Coupe and Cab) and 155kW/350Nm (E250 Coupe and Cab) tune, a 2.1-litre four cylinder turbo diesel with 150kW/500Nm (E250CDi Coupe only) and a twin-turbo, 3.0-litre petrol V6 with 245kW/480Nm (E400 Coupe and Cab).The latter replaces the previous E500 Coupe and Cabriolet V8 petrol engine with which the V6 shares performance figures but uses less fuel. All petrol engines pass EU6 emissions regulations and achieve as good as 6.0-litres/100km fuel economy. The diesel dips deep into the 4.0s. All models get a seven-speed automatic transmission with paddle shift and multi modes.DRIVINGWe drove the E400 Cabrio and the E250 Coupe and liked both though we can't see the rational behind buying the 400 when the 250 is such a good thing. Both offer strong smooth and quiet acceleration and excellent fuel efficiency.The seven speed auto is a pearl and ride quality from both vehicles is super comfy and yet sporty enough to engage the driver if called for. But the V6 petrol just doesn't cut it for feel or sound when compared with the old V8. The V6 biturbo is good but not as stirring. Benz has refined its Cabrio and Coupe breed over decades, previously as the CLK, and the latest is easily the greatest in terms of what you get for the money, the look and the features.VERDICTIt's a highly desirable indulgence no matter which model you pick.Mercedes-Benz E-Class coupe/cabrioletWarranty: 3 years/100,000 kmResale: 57 per centService interval: 12 months/25,000kmCapped price servicing: NoSafety rating: 5 starsEngines: 2.0L turbo four-cylinder petrol, 135kW/300Nm (E200); 2.0L turbo four-cylinder, 155kW/350Nm (E250); 2.1L turbodiesel four-cylinder, 150kW/500Nm (E250 CDI);  3.0L twin-turbo six-cylinder, 245kW/480Nm (E400)Transmission: 7-speed auto; RWDThirst: 6.0L/100km (95RON), 141g/km CO2 (E200, E250 coupe); 6.5L/100km, 151g/km CO2 (E200, E250 cabrio); 4.7L/100km (diesel), 122g/km CO2 (E250 CDI coupe); 7.5L/100km, 174g/km CO2 (E400 coupe); 7.7L/100km, 180g/km CO2 (E400 cabrio)Dimensions: 4.7m (L), 1.8m (W), 1.4m (H)Weight: 1560kg/1710kg (E200 coupe/cabrio); 1600kg/1725kg (E250); 1700kg (E250 CDI coupe); E400 N/ASpare: None 

A new generation Evo is coming, only it won't be like any Evo we've seen before. Mitsubishi confirmed in 2011 it will be taking its Evo in a new direction, enhancing the breed while at the same time bowing to environmental pressures and changing consumer trends.Numerous reports have suggested that some form of vehicle electrification was likely for the new Evo, an Evo XI to all the fans, but with a turbocharged four-cylinder (possibly a diesel) and all-wheel drive intact. While this is still expected to be the case, reports are circulating that the car will be repositioned as a Nissan GT-R rival and have at least 373kW (500hp) on tap.Such a move would entail repositioning the car as a standalone model and no longer part of the humble Lancer family, which was one of the most enduring traits of previous generations. It truly was an econo-sedan with the performance to match a Porsche.The Lancer platform is still said to be the basis of the new Evo, however. The next-generation Lancer is due next year so the Evo spinoff could be out within the next year or two, though Mitsubishi's official stance is that it is still considering what form the new car will take.It is alleged to be a plug-in hybrid, combining a turbocharged four-cylinder with two electric motors for a total system output of about 370kW. Mitsubishi's Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC) will also feature, but with the electric motors aiding traction instead of a traditional mechanical setup. The automaker's MiEV Evolution II electric Pikes Peak racers are said to provide a glimpse of what's possible.Like most plug-in hybrid vehicles, multiple driving modes including an electric only mode would aid economy. The setup will likely be an upgraded version of the drive system found in the upcoming Outlander PHEV SUV. A similar setup will be used by Honda's upcoming NSX and its rumoured Nissan may follow suit for its next-generation R36 GT-R. 

Two wheel drive compact SUVs are squeezing ‘genuine’ people movers off buyer’s radar because they’re cheap and perform a similar mass transit function - almost. Sometimes however, only a people mover will do.A properly designed and engineered ‘family bus’ such as Peugeot’s new 5008 is a sensible vehicle for conveying seven people economically, comfortably and safely. The new Pug bus joins the ugly 3008 that has hung around like a bad smell for a while.We drove the newcomer recently on an extended 1000km test run sometimes with people, sometimes in van-mode house moving.VALUEGoodies such as a panoramic sun roof, satnav, front arm rests, front and side park assist, reverse camera, dual-zone climate control with adjustable side pillar vents, electric park brake, cruise with speed limiter, retractable side window blinds, pollen filter, trip computer and auto headlights and wipers are standard kit.Other practicalities include two DVD players for the second row occupants with bluetooth head sets and multimedia connections.Leather costs three grand more on top of the 1.6 at $36,990 and the 2.0-litre diesel at $40,490, both six-speed autos only. The vehicle is a little more compact but taller than a Honda Odyssey  that has difficult third row access and is only beaten on price by Kia’s new Rondo ($29,990).DESIGNIt is OK to look at too, a bit like a five door hatch morphed and plumped into a wagon. The 5008 has characteristic current Peugeot design cues about its flanks in particular the head and tail lights, grille and side highlight lines. The interior of Aussie spec’ 5008 is the same in both 1.6-litre turbo petrol and 2.0-litre turbo diesel variants and is to medium luxury level.With all seven seats in place, a reasonable load space remains. But there’s no spare, only a tyre inflation kit. The 5008 will take seven adults with relative ease and provides simple access to the third row through folding ‘cinema’ seats in the second row. The third row with two seats comes complete with a proper foot well, sedan-like seat positioning and adjustable aircon’ vents.The second and third rows are all foldable to provide a large, completely flat load space if needed. And the process is quick and easy. Access to the luggage compartment is by a large, top-hinged hatch and the load deck height is roughly the same as a small hatchback.SAFETYSafety rates five stars with six air bags including a curtain bag that covers the entire side to aft of the third row.ENGINEWe got a crack in the high-tech, direct injection, turbo petrol 1.6 rated at 115kW/240Nm (the 2.0-litre diesel achieves 120kW/340Nm) and though initially sceptical about the ability of such an engine to move more than 1.5 tonnes of vehicle and potentially half a tonne of human and some luggage, we were soon convinced.DRIVINGThe engine is in a few other Pugs including the RCZ auto and other less glamorous models. It churns out plenty of low rev grunt to get the whole plot quickly mobile and has no trouble whizzing along at freeway speeds including uphill, fully laden with the air on.Noise is minimal and the vehicle has a comfortable and controlled ride from the simple strut front and torsion beam rear suspension. The driving position is car-like and comfortable over a long run and we were able to achieve the manufacturer’s claimed 7.6-litres/100km combined fuel economy. But it prefers 95 or better petrol. The auto is good and the drive feel is decidedly not “mum-bus”.It has a few direct competitors apart from perhaps Citroen’s C4 Picasso which is essentially the same vehicle underneath - at a bit more money.VERDICTA worthy vehicle if you are a breeder and must have a people mover. 

We turn the spotlight on the car world's newest and brightest stars as we ask the questions to which you want the answers. But there's only one question that really needs answering -- would you buy one?What is it?The is the 1-Series you'd have if you couldn't run to the six cylinder 135i. It's a classy, quick five door hatch.How much?The price is $49,500 for the 125i with M-Sport package that includes eight speed auto transmission and premium satnav. It's right on the money with competitors.What are competitors?Plenty of new (front drive) cars coming through including the Benz A250, Audi A3, Volvo V40.What's under the bonnet?It's a petrol four cylinder with variable valve timing both side as well as variable valve lift, twin scroll turbo and direct fuel injection. Power is 160kW with 310Nm of torque. Drive is to the rear wheels.How does it go?Zot. Quick no matter how you look at it, this is a quick little device with zip off the mark and strong pull right through to engine redline. Great dynamics too, sporty and comfortable, excellent steering with variable sport steer system, strong brakes.Is it economical?OK at around the 7.0 mark, better if you're careful on at least 95 RON petrol.Is it green?Fairly, Has auto stop/start, EcoPro drive mode and other techy stuff.Is it safe?Five starsIs it comfortable?Well featured with Bluetooth phone and audio, leather sports seats, dual zone climate,voice control, on board computer, rain sensor, keyless entry and ignition. Seats for four adults and some luggage.What's it like to drive?Sharp. Enthusiast drivers will like this one. The wheel feels good in your hands and there are plenty of choices to customise the drive feel. The eight speed auto is superb and comes with paddle shift and multiple modes.We had to continually remind ourselves we were in a 1-Series and not a 3-Series. It has a sporty feel to the dynamics, excellent steering thanks to the variable sport steering system, strong brakes and even sounds pretty good.Is it value for money?You'd have to have it on the short list. Feels like a 3-Series from behind the wheel, Goes like a sports sedan in a straight line and around corners.Would we buy one?Maybe. Not really fans of the new 1-Series styling particularly the frontal treatment. But it's great to drive and has plenty of kit spoiled a tad by the cost of options and packages. It is after all a small five door hatch, albeit, a supremely safe and well built one.BMW 125i M-SportPrice: from $49,500Warranty: 3 years/unlimited kmService Interval: 12 months/15,000kmSafety: 6 airbags, ABS with EDB, TC, ESCCrash rating: Five starsEngine: 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder, 160kW/310NmTransmission: 6-speed manual, 8-speed automatic, rear-wheel driveBody: 4324mm (L), 1765mm (W), 1421mm (H), 2690mm (WB)Thirst: 6.6/100km, 154g/km Co2