Articles by Peter Barnwell

Kia's position edges onwards and upwards with a brace of striking cars one after the other. It is fast becoming an inspirational brand instead of one carried by "available and affordable" products.The new Cerato is a classic example, easily one of the best lookers in the small car class any normal person would love on their drive. This is generation three of Kia's small car range though the ‘small’ tag doesn't really apply as it's crept up closer to medium in size. It's nothing like the two, staid-looking earlier versions.New Cerato kicks off with a swoopy looking sedan followed soon by a hatch and a coupe before the end of the year. They are built on a similar platform to Hyundai's i30 model but that's only the basic architecture.Cerato has its own DNA highlighted by the particular style Kia has adopted since stylist Peter Schreyer took over the company's drawing board a few years ago. It looks a million bucks distinctive, trend setting, sexy, classy.And following Kia Australia's localisation program, boasts one of the better all-round dynamic set up on a mainstream small car sold here. Kia Australia has become so good at local set-up of the suspension, steering, brakes and tyres that it has the keen ear of head office back in Korea.Unlike many players in the segment, Cerato bristles with new technology including direct fuel injection and variable cam timing on the inlet and exhaust sides to optimise engine output.Three model grades are available in S, Si and SLi variants. Prices are $19,990, $23,990 and $27,990 in ascending order.All three get Kia's clever Flex-steer three mode steering system along with aerodynamic undercar enhancement, front and rear park sensors, six-speaker audio with MyMusic 880 meg music register, multiple wheel controls, Bluetooth phone and audio, aircon, trip computer and a full-size spare.Naturally, the higher grade models get more up to the SLi with leather, dual zone climate control, 17-inch alloys and paddle shift.Two engines are offered in a three model range. Both have friction reduced internals and all-of-life timing chains instead of belts that need regular replacement. The ‘base’ engine in Cerato S only is a 1.8-litre, four cylinder, petrol good for 110kW/178Nm output and as low as 6.6 litres/100km for the six speed manual.The six speed auto uses a tad more. The 2.0-litre petrol four achieves a strong 129kW/209Nm output and 7.4 litres/100km. The auto (+$2000) is a six speeder where most competitors settle for five or a slurring, cheap CVT ‘auto.’Aiming to retain customers as much as win new ones, Kia provides its cars with a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty, a year's roadside assist and capped price servicing for the first five services.Its five star crash rated with all that entails in terms of equipment. The new body is up to 50kg lighter than the previous model but much stronger thanks in part to the use of 63 per cent high strength steel in its construct.New Cerato is smoother and quieter than before with more sound deadening and better noise and vibration isolation. We drove the high range SLi and the base S autos. Both were impressive, particularly the SLi with its 129kW engine and plush interior.It has a European feel to the ride and handling. Indeed the entire car feels European not surprising when you think Kia has a major manufacturing effort in Europe as well as engineering and design facilities.The seats are super comfortable with eight electric adjustments to the driver's pew as well as heating and ventilation. The dash is as good as anything from Europe in design and function with the added benefit of a new fascia in a mock carbon fibre texture along with three other media.There's plenty of room even in the critical rear seat leg room measurement and the boot is big, expandable with 60:40 rear folding seat. It is a fun car to drive, responsive, smooth, well-mannered an accomplished all-rounder. The stying really grabs you viewed from all angles.The red hot small car segment gets a tough new player. Those already there had better be on their toes this new Cerato is a cracking good car.

‘Diesel’ and ‘fast’ are not usually uttered in the same breath when it comes to mainstream cars. Diesel and strong, as in roll on acceleration, yes but fast? Not really. You want serious performance you get a turbo or V8 petrol.But Audi (and Peugeot) have dominated at Le Mans and other ‘Sports Car’ race venues with diesel powered vehicles. Really dominated. It comes as no surprise then that Audi has tapped into this technology for its street cars at the pinnacle of which is the new A6 3.0 TDI biturbo sedan.Not only does it bestow the A6 with serious performance, it also sounds incredible like no other diesel you've ever heard. Diesels are not noted for aural resonance but with an exhaust sound actuator, this car sounds as good as a V6 Alfa on full song but two octaves lower.It propels the 1790kg A6 from 0-100km/h in a scant 5.1 seconds and returns fuel economy in the low 6.0 litres bracket. Pretty good huh?VALUEThe biturbo comes in at $118,800 with a significant Luxury Tax reduction due to the sub 7.0 litres/100km fuel rating. Bose audio is included along with LED headlights, a rear vision camera with excellent park assist system, convenience key and plenty more.TECHNOLOGYThe 3.0-litre V6 is also used in an A7 model and also the forthcoming SQ5 performance SUV diesel. It's an amazing thing. The engine achieves a hearty 230kW and an astonishing 650Nm of torque from as low as 1450 revs. No wonder it gets up and boogies.The two turbos are fitted in series with a small unit handling low speed applications and a larger one taking over from mid-engine speeds. It also has variable valve timing and lift among a raft of optimisation technology that helps it pass Euro 5 emissions regulations. Engine internals are friction reduced as well.DESIGNThe problem with the A6 is that it looks too derivative. Too much like an Audi A4 which costs half as much. Look past that and you have one of the more desirable medium large prestige European cars on the market complete with quattro all-wheel drive, a steel/aluminium composite body, engine stop/start and a silky smooth eight-speed auto transmission with paddle shift.It's a five-seater with a large boot and folding rear seats. The interior is a sea of leather with a stylish and functional dash complete with a retractable large screen touch pad for info, multimedia and car set up via Audi's brilliant Drive Select system.DRIVINGThe drive feel is superb. Hit the accelerator and away it goes delivering possibly the most linear acceleration you can get. There's a moment of hesitation off idle but once it's up and running whoosh all the way through to the 5200rpm redline then imperceptibly into the next gear.There are about six modes in drive select spanning comfort through to dynamic but we mostly used auto. It has impressive handling and braking too. Offering soft through to firm feel to the suspension, transmission and steering engine. And the sports stability program. This is Australia's fastest diesel and a car that would satisfy any driving enthusiast. It has a classy appearance with 18-inch alloys and attractive body shape and lines.VERDICTOne out of the box. Completely anonymous in the Audi line-up but you'd have one every day over the lesser 3.0 TDI there are two of them. Go figure.Audi A6 3.0 TDI BiturboPrice: from $118,800 Warranty: 3 years/unlimited kmEngine: 3.0-litre 6-cyl, 230kW/650NmTransmission: 8-speed auto, AWDBody: 4915mm (L); 1874mm (w); 1455mm (h)Weight: 1790kgThirst: 6.4L/100km 169g/km CO2

Now there's a new importer involved, Citroen could have a brighter future in Australia.Ateco Automotive, who previously handled the iconic French brand, tapped out at about 3000 units a few years ago - in a market of more than a million. They were possibly more focussed on Ferrari and Great Wall...Now Sime Darby has the Citroen (and Peugeot) franchise and first appearances suggest they are going to ramp it up.They should because there are many desirable cars in the Citreon lineup - arguably the best French car brand. But first of all they needed to do some "house cleaning" and re-launch a vehicle that was pretty much passed over under the Ateco umbrella - the C4 Aircross.This is a Citroen version of the Mitsubishi ASX and Peugeot 4007 small SUVs. All three are made in Japan by Mitsubishi which must cringe every time a Pug' or Cit' version of its vehicle rolls out the door.Why?The two Frenchies win the looks contest hands down with the Aircross taking the silverware as far as we are concerned.It gets more exterior chrome, the imposing chevron grille and other changes that make it look totally different to the other two cars.Added to that is roughly a $4000 price cut for the Aircross to a starting point of $31,990 drive away for the front wheel drive model. It was previously that price plus on roads and Sime Darby has added a smattering of extra kit.The all wheel drive model goes for $33,990 drive away.Both models (Exclusive grade only) get a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) auto as standard along with a rear view camera, Bluetooth with voice control, steering wheel controls for cruise and audio, paddle shift and high quality interior materials.Climate control and a pollen filter are included. They also get hill start assist and rear park assist, seven air bags and stability control. The ANCAP rating is five stars.Obviously a practical vehicle, Aircross has easy to fold rear seats and a decent size load space. They've fitted additional sound deadening material and a ski flap in the rear seat.Aircross is differentiated from the other two cars by frontal styling, tail lights and other minor exterior changes. The interior is also different though in our opinion, not up to the usual Citroen chic.The suspension is recalibrated compared to the other two cars and it has a wider track thanks to bigger tyres. The 4WD system has three modes; 2WD, 4WD and Lock that can be selected from the dash .The engine is out of Mitsubishi's Lancer small car and is a petrol 2.0-litre four pot with variable valve timing (MIVEC) and regenerative energy harvesting from the alternator during braking and deceleration.It's good for 110kW/199Nm and in this case, requires premium unleaded. The engine is a fairly old design and misses out on the more efficient direct injection system which, ironically, Mitsubishi developed for mainstream automotive use more than a decade ago.We like the look of it and the five seat interior is practical and roomy for such a compact vehicle. It has generous standard equipment and is good to drive in an unban environment.Hauling 1400kg dents engine performance a tad when you put the car under pressure with a full passenger load and the air conditioning on. But otherwise, it's acceptable - unobtrusive and relatively economical at around 8.0-litres/100km.The suspension is soft and could do with a little more local fettling to better handle rough roads. It handles OK, rides comfortably and is easy to drive thanks in part to the electric power stering and good turning circle.The CVT causes the engine to slur away unless you utilise the paddle shift..

It's hard to believe the new Range Rover is only the fourth generation of the iconic premium off roader. It's been around for 40 years so the people at Range Rover obviously put plenty of thought into any new model before committing. They must have put an extra effort into the latest version because it's a huge step up over the previous (already impressive) model.Range Rover seems ready and willing to adopt new technology which abounds in the new model. It's all aluminium for a start shaving weight by some 420kg.As you can no doubt tell, this is an impressive vehicle as it should be pitched at a start price of $217,100. It bristles with multimedia communication options and has slick touches like the virtual instruments, auto high beam, adaptive cruise control with auto braking, expanded Terrain Response and now, wheels up to 22 -inches in diameter.The large format touch screen has a split screen function that enables the driver to see one set of images and the passenger to see something completely different. Digital TV is piped in on three screens (two in the back) and the sound system on the mid range test car pumps out some 850w of power.But this is all the frilly stuff around the edges because a Rangey must be the ultimate off roader as well as offering ultimate luxury.Power comes from a cracking good 4.4-litre, twin-turbo, V8 diesel with 250kW and 700Nm of torque from as low as 1750rpm. It drives the permanent all wheel drive system through an eight speed auto with paddle shift. This is sufficient to propel the 2360kg Rangey from 0-100kmh in a scant 6.9 seconds while consuming as little as 8.7-litres/100km.The poms have nailed it with this vehicle which can go pretty much anywhere a driver chooses on and off road. The multi-mode Terrain Response system takes care of everything simply by rotating a dial to the required setting for a given driving environment. You can raise and lower the vehicle on its adaptive air suspension or leave that to the auto mode.Sick of not being able to see what's coming when reversing out of a car park? Not a problem with this Rangey - it looks three ways for you, left, right and straight behind.The front seats are lounge-size and multi adjustable and the rears recline and offers sumptuous room. Then there's the large load space down the back with a full size spare under the floor - just as it should be.The entire roof is pretty much glass. We like the look from some angles. It's bluff fronted and too chamfered at the rear behind the wheel but still looks the goods - a real Rangey.On the highway it's superb, off road - equally as good with a supple, controlled ride from the air suspension and enhanced stability from the 21-inch wheels. The turning circle is tight, there's plenty of ground clearance up to 295mm, it will wade through almost 1.0 metre of water and can tow up to 3500kg braked.The test vehicle was more with selected options like the desirable adaptive cruise control with queue assist - yes, it will maintain your position in a queue automatically. Quite disconcerting at first. Would you take it off road? Hardly but that would be underutilising possibly the most capable luxury off roader on the planet.

Thankfully, HSV saw the error of its ways mid last year and re-introduced the 'entry level' ClubSport or Clubbie as it's affectionately known.Cashed up bogans love this car which has almost legendary status in certain quarters. Sure, the R8 and GTS are "better" but the Clubbie is the 'everyman' hot Holden, as is the Maloo ute which also made a comeback last year. HSV had been inexorably edging upscale with its range edging towards the hundred grand mark. That's a far cry from the original HSVs 25 years ago which were essentially Commodores with more powerful engines, bigger wheels and stiffer suspension.Starting from $64,990 the new ClubSport picks up HSV's 20-inch Pentagon alloy wheels to complement an already impressive list of standard features; sport/touring suspension, ESC with competition mode, four-piston brake package, sat nav, rear park assist and reversing camera. It also had other cool kit features like dual zone climate control, enhanced Bluetooth and a four way adjustable electric driver's seat.We like the look of it inside and out and the standard equipment is generous. Great seats, plenty of info feeding back to the driver and the EDI is excellent. Heck, it even has a decent boot and rear seat legroom. Standard features on the Clubbie (and Maloo) include HSV's 6.2 litre, pushrod overhead valve, LS3, Generation 4, V8 which delivers 317kW of power and 550 Nm of torque. A six-speed manual is standard with an optional six-speed auto an extra two grand. We would go for the auto every day because it delivers rapid fire changes up and down the range but misses out on paddle shift.The ClubSport effectively includes all the major features of last years R8 with the exception of HSV's Enhanced Driver Interface (EDI), which will be available as a factory-fitted option.The automatic car we drove was optioned up with a bimodal exhaust system and the EDI system to add an extra element of fun to driving this big, boofy V8 sedan. It consumes an alarming amount of fuel hovering in the mid to high teens per 100km and it’s premium too. Still, most of these cars would be funded through companies so what's it matter.At 1800kg, this is a big, weighty car but one that's still capable of putting away a 0-100kmh sprint in around 5.0 seconds. Engage the competition mode and you can really feel the Clubbie's power pushing you into your seat.It rumbles, squats in the rear end, lifts its nose and bellows en route to stopping the clocks in a more than respectable time for such a big beast. But in this case, it's spoiled a tad by the oversoft suspension and steering that could offer a bit more feel. We reckon the optional six piston brakes should be standard though the four pots fitted do a pretty good job on the road. Track day the Clubbie and you'd find the end of the brakes before finishing the first lap.Though the bimodal exhaust sounds good at idle, it's too quiet on the move unlike most of the European V8 sports sedans that get better the harder you drive them. You can punt the Clubbie fairly hard on a winding road limited by its weight and in this case, the softish suspension.This model is due to be replaced later this year when the 'F' range of HSV cars comes down the line possibly with a 400kW plus supercharged 6.2-litre V8. Now that would be something else again.

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?This is the 3-Series BMW hybrid for want of a better term but forget any hybrid preconceptions you may have. This car is a high performance sedan offering super fuel economy along with  striking welly and dynamics. It's also crammed with luxury kit. Shop it against the 335i  you will be really surprised.How much?Goes for $97,700 but there are plenty of options to hike that as well as four option packs, Sportline, Modern, Luxury and M Sport. All ad up to a few grand to the purchase price.What are competitors?Not many really. Benz has some BlueEfficincy models but none goes as far as the Bimmer ActiveHybrid. Same from Audi though they do have some fuel economy kings in their lineup.What's under the bonnet?There's a 3.0-litre turbo straight six petrol engine mated to a 40kW electric boost engine located between the eight speed auto transmission and the engine proper. It's a neat installation. Drive still goes to the rear wheels. A lithium ion battery absorbs regenerative electric energy harvested when braking or deceleration. The combined output of electric and petrol engines is 250kW/450Nm The ActiveHybrid can run entirely as an EV if required and does so automatically when cruising.How does it go?Like a rocket. Puts away a 0-100kmh sprint in a tidy 5.3 seconds offering strong acceleration at all speeds merely by pushing the accelerator.Handling is sharp to. This is a fast, engaging sports sedan, not a wimpy fuel miser that grudgingly gives up forward motion.Is it economical?Surprisingly so rated at a mere 5.9-litres/100km. It's significantly better than the petrol only 335i Bimmer and we reckon you could do even better than the claimed figure with a little effort and planning.Is it green?Yes, minimises carbon production due to low fuel consumptionIs it safe?Hi fives. But many driver assistance features are optional.Is it comfortable?Yes, leather sports seats, heads up display, drive experience control with Eco-Pro, Comfort and Sport modes, electronic diff lock, electric power steering, rain and dusk sensors, cruise control with braking, premium audio, Bi-xenons, on board computer with internet, 6.5-inch info screen with proferssional satnav, voice control, 18-inch alloysWhat's it like to driveSuper impressive  have your cake and eat it too. Offers performance on par with the 335i with the economy of the 320 four banger.Has excellent dynamics, powerful brakes, great engine sound, sexy stylinIs it value for moneyAt just under 100k, good value against possible competitors. A technology showpiece.Would we buy oneIn a flash.

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?This is the recently revised Kia Optima medium size four door sedan, the good looker that nails it in styling terms putting Kia above much more fancied players in the car game.It's on the larger side of medium and seats five in relative comfort - with a big boot and the facility of a four door sedan body. Though selling at a steady rate, Optima lifted Kia right up there as soon as it appeared. Good value, great looks, acceptable performance and impressive dynamics.The mid-spec' Optima SLi we drove goes for $34,990 and is a sister ship to the Hyundai i45 that was discontinued due to lack of interest a few months ago.Heaps of them: Camry, Mazda6, Mondeo, Accord, Pug 508, Liberty, Kizashi.Power comes from a 2.4-litre, direct injection, variable cam timing, petrol four cylinder good for 148kW/250Nm output. Drive goes to the front wheels via a six speed auto.Really well, not a powerhouse by any stretch of the imagination but competent and efficient offering plenty of poke off the line, in the middle and right up to the higher rev range. Can become a tad noisy when worked.Rated at 7.9-litres/100km of regular unleaded but we achieved better than that on a long freeway run.Reasonably so.Five stars plus other safety kit.Excellent ride/handling compromise thanks to local input. Wheel/tyre package changed on this model with higher profile sidewall tyres bringing more compliance, higher comfort levels for everyday driving. Slightly toned-down wheels still look pretty cool though. Best satnav in the business.No complaints at all. The auto makes smooth slick shifts and almost predicts the driving conditions. Stability control stays on too long. The engine has enough kick for most applications and the Optima actually feels engaging to drive. If only all carmakers carried out as high a level of local calibration.All things considered yes. Generous kit including cruise, 7-inch colour TFT info screen, trip computer, alloy pedals, multiple storage options, excellent audio, Bluetooth phone and audio, some driver assist features like hillstart assist and reverse camera, auto dim rear view mirror, cornering lights and speed sensing auto door locks.Absolutely on the short list. You'd be mad if you didn't.

We now have to reassess our opinion of CVT autos because the new Subaru Forester XT is so good.Past experience with CVTs hasn't been good - sloppy `gear' changes, slurring engine revs - really disconcerting - but the Forester XT isn't like that at all.VALUEThe XT is the lower spec' model with a Premium variant above. Both are generously equipped with reverse camera, one touch folding rear seats, premium audio, full connectivity, dual zone climate control, roof rails, xenon headlights and more.The Premium adds leather, electric sunroof, auto wipers and lights, Eyesight crash avoidance system, button start and a Harman Kardon audio among its inventory. Pricing is $43,490 for the XT, seven more for the Premium.It places the XT base model a grand over the new Outback diesel auto creating something of a conundrum for potential buyers. But the Forester XT is a - much sportier customer compared with the pedestrian diesel Outback even though the former no longer has a bonnet scoop.TECHNOLOGYIt has an impressive eight step transmission that can be used in manual mode via the paddle shift or left in D where it seems to be connected directly to the engine - like direct drive.Added to this is Subaru's clever SI-drive system that offers Sport-sharp mode, Sport for normal driving and Intelligent for cruising and optimum fuel economy - All bases covered. There's also X-mode for off road work - selectable by dash dial.The 2.0-litre engine is new too, still a boxer four banger but this time with direct fuel injection along with variable valve control on inlet and exhaust sides and a twin scroll turbo.Truth be known, the engine is probably why the transmission works so well because it delivers a big hog of torque from a low 2400rpm (350Nm) and then backs it up higher in the range with a handy 177kW of power.The entire drive train has been friction optimised to aid economy and cut emissions and this engine passes Euro 5 regs. The drive system features an active torque split function that adapts to available traction.Aiding the impressive drivetrain is the sporty suspension calibration that allows drivers to fully engage with the car pretty well no matter what prevailing conditions are. It's a good thing on gravel, sand, snow, ice and on winding backroads and freeways. All bases covered again.DESIGNIn styling terms, we are not fans but that's subjective and some people like the current Subaru ugly stick. Reverse psychology or something.DRIVINGWe gave the Forester XT a good old punt over five days, ran a couple of tanks of fuel through it and really enjoyed the experience. It's an excellent car to drive, safe (five stars), powerful, well controlled, well specified and comfortable. It's also the right size making carpark manoeuvres easier coupled with a relatively high seating position for better visibility.VERDICTForester is a mainstay of the Subaru lineup and this car will take that to another level. It's practical, relatively economical, has impressive performance and handling at a tempting price.Subaru Forester XTPrice: from $43,490Engine: 2.0-litre 4-cyl, 177kW/350NmTransmission: CVT, AWDThirst: 8.1L/100km, 187g/lm CO2Crash rating: 5-star ANCAPDimensions: 4595mm (L), 1795mm (W), 1735mm (H)Warranty: Three years/unlimited km

It's been a couple of months now and our time with Peugeot's classy 308 Allure is drawing to a close. We really like the car for a number of reasons not the least being the fact that it's different - you don't see one on every street corner.For some reason it's not on many people's radar but the Peugeot brand has been substantially rejuvenated in the past year or two offering style and efficiency in a range of affordable cars with that certain French chic.The six-speed conventional automatic places the sweet looking Pug in a torrid segment with up to eight direct competitors from Japan, Korea and Europe. The main one would be VW's Golf diesel.VALUEThe current, well featured Pug lineup deserves a second look particularly with fixed price servicing now included. Prices for the 308 range start at $22,990. The Allure tested here is the top of the range going from $37,990.It includes leather, premium audio, cruise with speed limiter, dual zone climate control, comprehensive instrumentation, multi wheel controls, auto wipers, park assist front and rear, Bluetooth, pollen filter with charcoal filter as well, rain and dusk sensors for wipers and lights, remote wheel buttons and a decent trip computer.We really appreciate the auto wipers and headlights and would like to see them adopted on all cars. How hard would it be? The lack of satnav as standard equipment is a bit of an issue for the $37,990 ask.DESIGNPeugeot upgraded the 308 mid-2011 with a sleeker look that toned down the large grille and gave the car a more prestige appearance inside and out. It is in fact available in three body styles, hatch, CC (coupe/convertible) and wagon.The 308 hatch looks good heightened this time around by some funky daytime running lights. Love the interior styling, Peugeot has really nailed it here. It has a French flair and is much better than Peugeot's efforts in the recent past.The firmish seats are comfy over a long drive and the stylish cabin is a pleasant place to be. It has room for five and the load space can be doubled in size with the rear seats folded. Fits easily in the garage too.TECHNOLOGYMechanically it's actually fairly mainstream - electric power steering, Macpherson strut and torsion beam suspension, 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine with 120kW/340Nm output and capable of clocking as little as 6.3-litres/100km. The tank is 60 litres. No drinking problem here thank you very much it's all about sipping the precious essence to elicit maximum yield in terms of output and economy.We really like the fact that this car has both a charcoal filter and a pollen filter for cabin air purification. It means no more toxic fumes while you drive along. The six speed conventional automatic transmission marries up well to the engine and is always at the ready with the right cog for any given circumstance. The manual dips into the fours impressive.Bear in mind that Peugeot's engine building operation supplies many highly regarded European manufacturers with diesel and petrol engines - the same as what is fitted to Peugeot's lineup (sometimes tweaked). The 2.0 turbodiesel isn't as advanced as the 1.6 turbodiesel also available in 308 but is good to drive with smooth operation and plenty of punch readily available simply by pushing the go pedal.SAFETYFive star safety includes all the usual equipment to achieve that and comes with what Peugeot calls an Assured Service Plan no more than $330 a year for servicing. The roll-on grunt available at most intermediate speeds makes overtaking safer and quicker.DRIVINGIt's been a pleasant dalliance with pretty much no down side and some surprises to help keep our interest. We prefer an auto turbo diesel because there's a smoother power delivery due to constant turbo speed and boost. Better around town too. The 308 would make a capable long distance touring car and equally proficient commuter.It gets going straight off the mark and delivers lineal acceleration right up to whatever you choose. Better yet the 308 is a good thing to drive, a touch of class for not a lot of money.Indeed, the really impressive thing is how it goes, rides and handles. Performance is never lacking with plenty of kick off the mark, in the mid range and to some extent up near redline at 4000rpm. Minimal noise or vibration enters the cabin and once a desired speed is attained, it's all quiet on the western front.Not billed as a sports hatch, Peugeot has been able to imbue the 308 with clever dynamics that see it corner flat as a tack (no body roll) and yet still smooth out rough roads with its supple suspension.We continue to be impressed by its flat stance through corners at speed which normally means a hard ride from a stiff suspension. Not so here as the small car soaks up the bumps without flinching and continues on the chosen trajectory through a turn.Funny thing is, the suspension isn't anything special in technical terms a strut front and torsion beam rear. Can't get simpler than that. We drive plenty of cars and very few have this flat cornering characteristic. It's good.Other dynamics are impressive - the brakes, steering and chassis are similarly competent in an unobtrusive way. You can feel it all working but don't realise it until you actually pay attention. It's like Peugeot's of old supple and controlled.VERDICTYes, interesting car, goes great, plenty of kit, economical, excellent long distance cruiser. Looks pretty good too. A worthy competitor in the luxury small European segment against the likes of Golf.Peugeot 308 Allure 2.0 HDiPrice: from $37,990Warranty: 3 years roadside assistEngine: 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbo-diesel, 120kW/340NmTransmission: 6-speed auto, FWDThirst: 6.3L/100Km, CO2 164g/km

It took too long but finally Subaru has a powertrain to almost match it with other players in the large SUV segment - a diesel auto which is far and away the most popular set-up with buyers.TECHNOLOGYStill, Subaru seems to be holding something in reserve because their diesel auto is a 2.0-litre with a Constantly Variable Transmission (CVT), a one-speed auto for want of a better description. Many competitors have larger capacity diesels with more power and torque and mostly conventional six-speed automatics. Not to worry, the Sooby set-up is fine though it could do with more kilowatts for top end acceleration and the torque peak dropped to around 1200rpm instead of 1800rpm and widened to about 3000rpm so it will get going harder, earlier and longer.As it stands, the horizontally opposed four pot diesel is good for 110kW at 3600rpm and 350Nm from 1800-2400rpm. Both engine and transmission are unique in the segment with the former being around for a few years in other Soobies and the transmission also in other models, albeit extensively reinforced for the diesel Outback.It's called a ‘Lineartronic’ CVT with seven steps (quasi gears) and paddle shift and in this case with altered internal ratios, a larger torque converter and lock up clutch, reduced noise, a short pitch chain, larger all wheel drive clutch capacity, an oil cooler, special CVT oil and other tweaks.They have equipped it with five mode adaptive control for more efficient uphill and downhill driving as well as cornering and braking control. Some local calibration was used for the steering, suspension and body reinforcements as well as more sound deadening materials such as “thinsulate” in behind the dash and roof liner.RANGE AND PRICETwo variants are available, the Outback 2.0d at $42,490 and the Premium model at $45,490. Both are value priced compared with similarly specced competitor vehicles. Both are identical under the skin and boast a five star crash rating. Fuel economy is a claimed 6.5-litres/100km.FEATURESThe desirable "Eyesight" safety system on other Soobies that helps avoid frontal impacts and lane drifting isn't available on the Outback. Auto stop/start is also missing. Safety kit includes a reverse camera, brake assist, and seven airbags but driver assist features are thin on the ground.Hopefully, Subaru and other Japanese manufacturers will catch up with the Europeans in this area soon.Features on both models include Bluetooth phone and audio, dual zone climate control, electric parking brake, satnav with voice control, multi-media connectivity, leather wheel with multiple control buttons, multi-function trip computer, rear seat auto fold function, alloy wheels, a full size spare and self levelling rear suspension.DRIVINGThe drive feel is good. We chalked up a few hundred kays in both variants on sealed and gravel roads as well as some freeway driving. The Outback diesel auto strikes us as the ideal car for Aussie conditions.It's a wagon, five seats, large load space and there's plenty of ground clearance (around 215mm). The ride is supple and comfortable. They've even been able to give the Outback diesel auto a sporty edge with nearly no body roll through corners and responsive steering.It can fall into a power/torque hole though, quickly redeemable by the excellent paddle shift system on the wheel. We like the interior, like the size of it, don't like the exterior styling.VERDICTIs it really a large SUV? Don't think so, medium more like. The Outback diesel has impressive fuel economy, decent performance, excellent ride/handling and is affordable with plenty of kit. And it's a Subaru which means reliable and strong resale.