Articles by Peter Barnwell

Arriving in December, it's a Colorado ute-based SUV complete with ladder chassis and heavy duty off road credentials. But it's a boofy-looking customer with a pronounced snout and slab sided styling.That could very well appeal to plenty of Aussies who like this style of offroader in preference to the "girlie" SUVs currently enjoying huge popularity. It's the first "serious" 4x4 from Holden since the Jackaroo years ago.UTE BASEDThe 7 was developed in tandem with the ute and utilises the same torquey diesel engine and has impressive off-road capability, generous cargo space and full-size seven-seat interior. Colorado 7 will be available in two specifications, entry level LT and top-spec LTZ.SAFEIt shares safety credentials with the Crew Cab ute which means a 5-star ANCAP rating. Colorado's robust structural design is backed by a comprehensive array of safety features with Electronic Stability Control, dual front airbags and full-length curtain airbags that extend to the third row among the list of standard equipment.ENGINEOne powertrain and transmission combination will be available with the strong-performing 2.8-litre diesel engine with 6-speed automatic transmission standard on both LT and LTZ Colorado 7 models. The Duramax diesel engine achieves 132 kW power and 470 Nm of torque.UNDERNEATHColorado 7's chassis has been engineered independently of the Colorado LCV and is biased towards passenger comfort. While both models share an independent double wishbone front suspension set up, Colorado 7 features a five-link live axle rear suspension configuration that's unique to the SUV and coil springs front and rear.Colorado 7's off-road performance is underpinned by a part time four-wheel drive system with transfer case, with low and high ratio gears, shift on the fly and Limited Slip Differential. Hill Descent Control enhances Colorado 7's 4X4 capability.INSIDEGenerous interior dimensions enable a spacious and practical interior layout, with seven seats fitted across the range. With the second and third row seats folded, Colorado 7 can accommodate as much as 1830 litres of cargo. Colorado 7 has a 3,000kg towing capacity thanks to the torque and strength from its diesel powertrain, six-speed automatic transmission and robust driveline.

Suzuki has again started making a two wheel drive version of its Grand Vitara something they have been doing for years with previous models, none of which made it to Australia.That's changed with the appearance of the new "twobie". Suzuki is a survivor and realises you have to diversify to survive in the 21st century car market and that means you really do need a two wheel drive (quasi) SUV.It caters directly for the needs of urbanites seeking the tough 4WD look but who never, ever go off road. Two wheel drive versions of SUVs are gaining momentum as punters realise they don't need nor do they want to pay for an all-wheel-drive capability.But Suzuki has taken a different track with its 2WD Grand Vit'. Unlike direct competitors and apart from Mitsubishi's Challenger 2WD the little Zook drives through the rear wheels and not the front.Does it matter? Probably not except for the fact that a rear wheel drive will tow better than a fronty and there is always the drive feel question which favours powered rear wheels. The 2WD Grand Vitara is available in five door, long wheelbase with a 2.4-litre petrol four cylinder engine and a choice of five speed manual and four speed automatic transmission.Hopefully they can scrounge up a more modern auto before too long. Aisin makes one. The 2WD Zook sells for $26,990 (two grand under the 4WD model) and comes well equipped to mid-spec of the fourbie model.The four pot engine is good for 122kW/225Nm output and because the 2WD Grand Vitara weighs less than the 4WD model, it will use less fuel, (around 8.0-litres/100km) and perform better. Grand Vitara also gains a styling refresh with a more purposeful looking grille and headlights and detail changes throughout the vehicle.

Audi already has the biggest model range in Australia but has just bumped that up by two (more!). Two absolute pearls if you have a fat wallet to take the hit. And in a departure from usual Audi practice, the new $168,900 S6 and $179,900 S7 are fully equipped as standard - a big move away from the extensive options list usually offered with this brand.Both cars are “limited editions” restricted to 50 apiece but we reckon that is an arbitrary number that could be increased if needed. This is a share-pair using the same platform with some aluminium body panels and same powertrain though the S6 is a four-door, five-seater sedan while the S7 is more your five- door, four-seat ‘coupe’ style car with a rear hatch (tailgate).They are medium large in size weighing just under two tonnes and offer high-end performance, luxury, style and quality as well as a raft of Audi technology.ENGINEA V8 replaces the previous howling V10 but outpoints it everywhere thanks to technology. It's a compact 4.0-litre, direct injection V8 with variable valve timing and variable lift as well as two, twin-scroll turbochargers - effectively four turbos.Most ancillaries including the turbos are in the engine vee. Internals are friction modified and it has auto cylinder deactivation when all eight pots aren't required, cutting back to four. Auto stop/start further improves fuel economy also helped by thermal management for optimum running at all times.Fuel economy is rated at 9.6-litres/100km - exceptional when you consider there's some 309kW/550Nm burbling from under the bonnet. More importantly, maximum torque is from a mere 1400rpm. Drive is through a seven-speed dual clutch ‘manumatic' called S-tronic, then by Audi's quattro system to all four wheels with torque vectoring on the S6 thanks to its special sports differential.Torque vectoring monitors wheel spin apportioning drive to wheels with the most grip. Get the picture about technology? It's the same throughout both cars - the communications systems, luxury kit and safety.FEATURESThey use the 14 speaker Bose audio system in a noise cancelling mode so you can't tell when it's running on four cylinders.Both ride on adaptive, four-mode air suspension and have imposing 20-inch alloys, digital TV, heads-up display, LED headlights with auto high beam, leather sports seats, electric park brake and reversing camera in their comprehensive features list. Lane departure warning and radar cruise control are two of only four options available.DRIVINGWe were fortunate enough to drive both S6 and S7 last week and found both to our liking, particularly the gorgeous fastback S7. It really stands out in a sea of conservative sedans and when you plant the right foot - look out. This engine offers superlative performance and in these two cars, is neatly harnessed by adept dynamics that give true sports sedan (adjustable) dynamics and drive feel.They are sharp as a tack through tight stuff and smooth as silk out on the freeway. We wound down the windows often for some aural appreciation. Both cars are into the mid-4.0 second bracket for the 0-100kmh split - despite their bulk. They look powerful at rest with grey body hardware and pumped out guards. From inside, the experience is sumptuous luxury grand turismo style for all occupants.VERDICTWould give the full blown RS Audis a run for their money because of huge torque output at low revs. Sound is stirring, wieldy handling, controlled ride. Heavy. Some people get all the fun...Audi S6 and S7Price: from $168,900 ($179,900)Engine: 4.0-litre, 8-cylinder, 309kW/550NmTransmission: 7-speed dual clutch ‘manumatic' S-tronicThirst: 9.6-litres/100km

When the new 2014 Chevrolet Corvette arrives late next year, it will be powered by a technologically advanced, race-proven 6.2-litre V8 delivering an estimated 335kW and helping produce 0-100kmh times in under four seconds. The new Corvette LT1 engine, the first of the Gen 5 family of small block engines, combines several advanced technologies, including direct injection, Active Fuel Management (AFM) and continuously variable valve timing to support an advanced combustion system. “Our objective for the development of the all-new LT1 was to raise the bar for performance car engines,'' said Mary Barra, senior vice president, Global Product Development.' ‘We feel we have achieved that by delivering a true technological masterpiece that seamlessly integrates a suite of advanced technologies that can only be found on a handful of engines in the world. “What makes this engine truly special is the advanced combustion system that extracts the full potential of these technologies. The art and science behind that combustion system make the Corvette LT1 one of the most advanced V8 engines in the world,” said Barra. Output, performance, and fuel economy numbers will not be finalised until early next year. It will be: the most powerful standard Corvette engine ever, the quickest standard Corvette ever and the most fuel-efficient capable of achieving around 9.0 L/100 kmh.  Australia will get this engine sometime soon and hopefully, it will make its way into a V8 supercar replacing the decades-old pushrod V8s currently used....  

There are BMW M cars and now, there are other M cars from BMW, not quite as hard-edge but still with the characteristics to qualify as a seriously sporty drive, oh, and much more affordable.VALUEThe new M135i is a case in point. It's pitched about half way between a garden variety BMW and a fully blown M car such as the M3 but for the six-speed manual it costs a much more accessible $68,400....half what you'll pay for the M3. Eight-speed auto is an extra $4,000.But it isn't half the car - by any stretch of the imagination, more like 80 per cent in outright performance and handling terms. BMW leverages the M brand in M135i with a smattering of go fast bits and the rest from the regular parts inventory.Inside gets a good amount of luxury kit like premium audio, voice control, multi media connectivity, Bluetooth audio and phone, leather sports seats while the exterior has a body aero pack, LED daytime running lights, bi-xenon headlights with auto high beam and blacked out body hardware.TECHNOLOGYWhen you take parts from there, you have a really high baseline and that's why the M135i is such a crackin' good thing to drive. The engine for example sees duty in a range of other models including the 335i, the 535i, the X5, the Z4 and others.It's a single twin-scroll turbo six cylinder petrol unit with fully variable valve adjustment in Valvetronic and double Vanos as well as direct injection. BMW calls it Twin Power in reference to the dual boost effect of the twin scroll turbo. They used to have two individual turbos. The 3.0-litre engine is good for 235kW/450Nm output from just 1250rpm _ in a car the size of a Toyota Corolla.DESIGNIt's a bit of a sleeper in the looks department but presents a more appealing face than the regular 1-Series.PERFORMANCENeedless to say, it pays attention to the right foot like few other small cars. Lucky drive goes to the rear wheels because that much grunt through the front would be a challenge. The eight-speed automatic we drove is a conventional torque converter unit but changes like a dual-clutch system.The powertrain can propel this compact five door hatch from 0-100kmh in better than 5.0 seconds while sipping fuel at an average of 7.5-litres/100km. It is truly amazing engine performance on a number of fronts and sounds unreal, then you point it at a series of corners and it moves up a notch.DRIVINGThe M Sport-specific suspension rides 10mm lower than a standard model and features adjustable sports dampers. The steering is likewise upgraded with variable gearing with different response at low, intermediate and high speeds. You can see and feel the effect even at parking speeds or turning around. Even the brakes are upgraded with large rotors and multi piston callipers from the M-Sport division. Wheels are 18-inch with Michelin Pilot low profile tyres.We were treated to a good long drive in the M135i in a number of driving environments, in all of which the car excelled. It's particularly handy on a winding mountain road but is also comfy and safe on the freeway. Around town, the eight speed auto comes into its own but when you're in sports mode, it flicks through the gears rapidly with small increments between each cog. There's even auto stop start and EcoPro drive mode to maximise fuel efficiency in the city.VERDICTWe are not fans of the look but the car itself is fabulous to drive. It's engaging, forgiving and satisfying to drive, even down to the shops. Just needs to be less of a Q-ship _ a tad more overt would be good so people know what you are driving and how discerning you are.BMW M135iPrice: from $68,400Warranty: 3 yearsSafety rating: 5-star ANCAPEngine: 3.0-litre 6-cylinder, 235kW/450NmTransmission: 6-speed manual; RWDBody: 4340mm (L); 1765mm (w); 1411mm (h)Weight: 1430kgThirst: 8.0L/100km 188g/km CO2

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 penultimate Nissan Navara, one step below the ST-X 550 but with the same engine and transmission, a bit less kit but still generously equipped. It was recently refreshed in the face of a bunch of newcomers to the “one tonne” ute brigade. Still a cracking good workhorse.Many, top of the range Ranger, BT-50, Hilux, Rodeo, Dmax, but this is the only 3.0-litre V6 engine in the class.Twin cam, 3.0-litre V6 turbo diesel good for 170kW and 550Nm from a low 1750rpm.Like a train. There's a seven speed automatic hooked up to the back of this strong engine with close ratios so it gets going really well, straight off idle pretty much everywhere. Near V8 petrol performance from this puppy.Sounds good too for a diesel, much better than a four or five pot. Superb roll on acceleration and the transmission kicks down willingly right into the fat torque band - whoosh.Expect about 10.0 litres/100km, Nissan quotes about 9.5 which seems achievable if you can resist the temptation to plant the right foot.Not really, what one tonner is?Misses out on the gold standard five star rating but gets a four star gong. Has six air bags and stability control, mustn’t get a good mark for other stuff like pedestrian safety, perhaps roll over though it does have a rear bar.Surprisingly so, not too firm even unladen, smooth engine, minimal noise, hum from the chunky tyres intrudes a tad, plenty of kit including a decent audio, Bluetooth phone, comfy seats (5), dual zone climate control power mirrors and decent cloth upholstery.Liked it a lot, would have one in a flash especially with that 3000kg towing capacity and that strong engine performance with acceptable economy.At the price it's good especially compared with other makes that aren't V6s and cost the same...Yes, even if we didn't need it as a tool of trade, having this much poke and load capacity at your disposal would be decidedly handy. Big tray for a dual cab too, totes a tonne in there.

There's two built and sold every minute somewhere in the world which explains total Toyota Corolla sales of 39 million since gen' one back in 1966. Toyota's iconic small car has been here for 46 years and this week moves into the 11th generation. It's been built here in the past but new Corolla now comes out of Japan.BRANDThe Corolla "brand" is built on quality, reliability and durability none of which change with the new, more attractive car that owes plenty to Europe in terms of style and dynamism. It remains practical and "sensible" but this time around marks the arrival of a good measure of sass.The car looks sexy and sporty inside and out even if it retains an inner conservative nature in the way it drives. It's no sporty hatch but is perfectly suited to the multiple applications to which Corolla owners put their cars. Toyota has made it easier to get into and out of by reducing seat height, they've given it better acceleration without upping outright power or torque by much at all. And it is more fuel efficient into the bargain.THE LOOKBut what you and I will notice first is the new and attractive exterior styling that sets Corolla apart from other players in the small car segment it's a real grown-up look completely different from the small people mover look of the previous model. The longer snout and V shaped grill treatment has family Toyota design cues - keen looking, a lot like a Tarago or the new Camry while the rear looks uncannily similar to the new (and equally handsome) Hyundai i30. There are sharp character lines down the sides and it has a low centre of gravity and low aerodynamic drag due in part to under body cladding. Weight has been cut by up to 55kg helping both performance and economy. The body might not be that much bigger on the outside but better design sees more room for up to five passengers and a decent load space. The stylish interior features a nearly flat top dash, bold shapes, soft feel surfaces and a host of easy to use controls.PRICEIn something of a coup, the starting price is $19,990 same as 11 years ago. Other models are equally sharp priced. We get four grades; Ascent, Ascent Sport, Levin SX and Levin ZR. Standard equipment is generous on all models with the two mid-level cars being arguably the best value. A small complaint. Routine servicing is capped at $130 a time for the first 100,000km. CVT auto adds $2000 to the price.MECHANICALPower comes from a carryover 1.8-litre petrol engine with mild changes to the previous unit. It's more efficient than before and is rated at 103kW/173Nm about average for the segment and uses 91 RON petrol. This is the only engine available in new Corolla no sports model, no diesel. The big news is a six speed manual transmission or optional seven step CVT auto more economical than the manual at 6.6-litres/100km.Naturally, the ride/handling package has been calibrated locally to deliver the best compromise between comfort and handling governed by our relatively poor roads. It's a strut front/ torsion beam rear system. A new electric steering system makes its first appearance contributing to a more engaging drive feel. New Corolla gets a five star Green Vehicle Guide rating and features an "eco' mode for economical driving.SAFETYSafety is rated at five stars by ANCAP thanks in part to seven air bags and stability control as well as a stronger body/chassis.DRIVINGOn the road, the new Corolla is, well, like a Corolla capable, predictable, economical and safe. It's no sports hatch but acquits itself well in the rough and tumble of modern Australian driving. Point it a poorly made bitumen road and Corolla sails over it easily soaking up big bumps.Hook harder than usual into a set of tight corners and Corolla sails around with a surprising degree of steering accuracy. Brakes hard, rides well, accelerates well spoiled a tad on the manuals by throttle flair between changes where the engine holds revs too long.VERDICTWe like new Corolla. We love the price, the features and the look from all angles. It's a cracking good car in the small car class and is certain to give all other contenders a serious case of heartburn.

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?Honda recently upgraded the Insight hybrid hatch as a response to the new Toyota Prius C - a cheaper, more driveable hybrid. The Honda got a new look and more kit but the price stayed the same.The entry level VTi we tested costs $29,990 while the VTi-L costs $33,490Toyota Prius C, VW Golf Bluemotion, just about all Light segment cars.Power comes from a relatively old tech 1.3-litre, single cam four cylinder petrol engine with variable valve timing coupled to a DC brushless electric assist motor - hence the term Integrated Motor Assist IMA. The combined output of both engines is 72kW/167Nm. Drive is to the front wheels via a CVT auto.OK, struggles a bit on uphill runs and there's that awful slurring CVT transmission but you can live with it. Not too much noise, flog it and overtaking is acceptable but fuel consumption rises sharply driven like this.Honda claims 4.2-litres/100km, we got 5.5 combined without really trying. It uses 91 RON petrol and gets an EU5 rating.Yes, low rolling resistance tyres, more aerodynamic, low CO2 output and low fuel consumption equals a five star green rating.Though the nickel metal hydride battery is an environmental worry in terms of manufactureand disposal. Old tech too.Gets a five star rating.Acceptably comfortable despite the sea of hard plastic inside. The seats are a good shape with new upholstery and there's enough kit inside to make you feel better about owning the Insight. Ride is sporty (ish) with adequate allowance for comfort. Kit includes drive assist to help achieve maximum fuel economy, auto stop/start, remote central lock, cruise, trip computer, rear park assist, Bluetooth phone and audio, steering wheel controls climate control.Yeah, take it or leave it. Now that you can access this sort of technology and a superior drive feel for a lot less in the Prius C, Honda Jazz based Insight will be up against it. The exterior has been freshened with a new grille, bumper, lights, alloys and aero add ons, similar story inside.Would take years to claw back the premium you pay for hybrid technology especially with the super economical light and small cars coming onto the market.No.

In one week we went straight from the entry level 3-Series model to the top of the line - from the 320d to the 335i Sport. The contrast was big but the elements for which BMW is famous shine through - sporty drive feel, high tech engines, quality fit and finish, arresting style. But the 335i Sport we had was something special, almost the M3 you'd have when you're not having an M3... or can't afford one. The 335i Sport isn't a V8 like the current M3 having much more in common with earlier six pot versions - potent six pots at that.Only this time, there's a twin-scroll turbo bolted to the exhaust to stir things up without giving the car a drinking problem. Infact, the petrol powered 335i Sport is a smidge away from qualifying for the Luxury Car Tax reduction, missing the 7.0-litres/100km cut off point by recording a depressingly close 7.2-litres. It would make a difference of a few thousand dollars to the price.Never mind, for the asking price of just under $100 grand, the 335i Sport delivers driver engagement in spades along with sporty dynmics and almost rude performance, rated at an impressive 5.5-seconds for the 0-100kmh sprint. And don't forget, this is an automatic executive sedan, albeit, with an eight speed auto driving the rear wheels.Is it too many cogs? No, you can barely feel or hear the changes up or down the scale and the paddle shift system is linked into the car's drive-mode select system giving a range of operation choices right through to full sport with throttle blip on the down change.The car gets an electronic diff lock for better traction and a sports suspension set-up, in this case with optional adaptive suspension. Needless to say it was a sharp piece of kit.That 3.0-litre turbo engine, with variable valve timing and lift is good for 225kW/400Nm output, the latter at barely above idle. It translates into super strong acceleration and quick response across the entire engine rev range. Even sounds pretty hot - a mad six cylinder wail not unlike those earlier M3s.But this car is tailored for executive suits who want luxury with their sporty sedan car and to that end, the 335i is crammed with goodies expected of this breed of buyer. Leather, voice control, high end satnav, bi-xenons, on board computer, premium Harman Kardon audio, full connectivity, dual zone climate, cruise with auto brake,electric seat adjustment. In line with BMW's green aspirations, the 335i also gains auto stop/start to save fuel in traffic, regenerative brake energy , eco pro systems optimisation to deliver the best economy and stuff like electric power steering.

Nissan is pulling a Toyota (Lexus) with its parallel premium brand called Infiniti. It took Lexus years to make inroads into the local market and even now, pales against the Germans.But obviously Nissan thinks Infiniti can cut it with the big boys as the brand lobs this month with a couple of dealers and a couple of cars; the FX, a mid-size luxury SUV priced from $83,900 and the M medium large luxury sedan from $85,900.Infiniti's full dealer network is yet to be established - at least one in each capital city and possibly a few in major regional centres. Infiniti execs are pretty confident of success with their American-centric cars. The two on offer first up have plenty of appeal and are really different from anything else on offer.The FX is up against Audi Q7, BMW X5/X6, Mercedes ML and Lexus RX. It comes fully equipped as standard unlike German competitors which have extensive and expensive options. The M sedan competes with the Audi A6, BMW 5 Series, Mercedes E-Class and Lexus GS offering generous luxury equipment levels, way beyond what the competition offers as standard.But metallic paint is $1500 extra...Both vehicles have a four year/100,000km warranty and a generous roadside assistance program with provisions for accommodation, accident coordination, alternate vehicle supply.FX has been around for quite a while and consequently, has older technology. It is powered by a choice of V6 petrol or diesel engines and a 287kW petrol V8 of 5.0-litres rated at 13.1L/100km. The M is all V6-powered with a choice of petrol, diesel or hybrid power trains.The hybrid is the performance model with a total output of 268kW. It's more economical than the diesel and will also operate in full electric mode up to 100km/h if there is enough battery charge. All models have seven-speed automatic transmissions with downshift rev matching and paddle shifters.Drive in the FX is on demand all wheel drive depending on available traction. It defaults to rear wheel drive with the front axle engaged as needed. The M is a conventional rear-wheel drive only. Digital technology abounds in both vehicles especially in the M. Both have Bose audio and the M gets a noise cancelling system to assist quiet running.Incoming cabin air goes through air-conditioning with humidity control, aromatherapy and a grapeseed polyphenol filter to decrease allergies. Four wheel steering is featured on the top of the line M and the FX has an auto tailgate.They are Japanese-made vehicles specifically designed for Americans which explains the overt styling with plenty of chrome and a macho look to the frontal area. Aussies should like them. The FX looks lower and wider than a BMW X5 for a dynamic, road-holding appearance. The M is a touch of S-Type Jag in feel and appearance. Rear seat room in both vehicles is generous and there's plenty of boot space in both models except in the M hybrid which suffers battery intrusion in the boot.Five stars from Euro NCAP for the FX but the M has yet to be tested.There is more of a sense of being in a Lexus than a German car from inside both vehicles - high quality build, tasteful amounts of bling, a quiet environment and a feeling of super-refined engines. They are performance oriented vehicles, underlined during our test drive. All engines offer strong performance across a wide rev range matched by sporty handling in both models. High levels of grip doesn't mean a harsh ride, as it’s "plush" over broken patches of road. The Bose noise-cancelling system works a treat, aided by double-glazed windows.The M sedan will appeal to those looking for something different. And the FX is a big, luxury SUV that will appeal to those looking for something different.