Articles by Peter Barnwell

A replacement for the 5.7-litre Gen 3 the newcomer boasts more of everything V8 lovers love - power, torque, sound, response, feel, towability, bragging rights.Ford's DOHC, 5.4-litre V8 pales against the sheer volume of the Holden donk. But there's a leveller - the Gen 4 Holden L76, 6.0-litre uses an old fashioned pushrod valve system and has only two valves a cylinder - not the most efficient layout in an era of ever improving engine technology striving for peak efficiency.Holden reckons it gets by with this mechanically low-tech approach using sophisticated electronics and says a cylinder deactivation system was unnecessary to deliver reasonable fuel economy.That's all very good but more and more V8 makers are moving towards these systems waiting for a breakthrough to cut fuel consumption in large capacity engines. What that will be is anyone's guess.L76 was introduced to comply with the new AS79/01 emissions laws, Australia's version of Euro 3 regulations. Gen 3 V8 doesn't pass.No doubt, Holden would have preferred to introduce the L76 to coincide with the new VE Commodore series but that's months away.We got hold of the range-topping Caprice V8 fitted with the new V8 and it's difficult not to be impressed, even at $75,390.The engine has a definite edge over the older donk offering more response, more mid-range and more top end while the fuel economy seems pretty much the same.The four speed auto needs to be consigned to history as it is simply not cut it these days in the face of five and six speed 'boxes from rivals. It not the smoothest tranny by anyone's measure and is atb odds with the refined atmosphere insided Caprice.That said, driving the big Holden is fun even around corners where its considerable weight doesn't seem matter too much.It has a ridiculous amount of rear seat legroom and the boot is expansive if a little shallow.As flagship of the range, Caprice is equipped with the full Holden inventory including dual rear DVD screens.A number of controls are available to rear seat passengers.But there's plenty of driver enjoyment to be had from this large limo.The engine sounds powerful propelling the Caprice at sports car pace.It's extremely comfortable inside but the dash looks like a tarted up Commodore item which it is.The new engine likes a strong brew and functions best on premium unleaded thanks in part to a knock sensor and high compression ratio.Fuel economy on test averaged around 14.5 litres/100km - impressive for a car this size.

Get hold of a motorhome, go camping and find out how easy relaxing can be.After a weekend in the new seven metre Trakka Veneto four berth "C- class motorcamper" relaxation swept over us as soon as we had packed the large vehicle, driven out the drive and ventured forth on a weekend surfing safari to coastal national parks.There is absolutely no point in driving hard in a vehicle such as this because you can't. It is more of a waft rather than a drive as the big Veneto glides over rough roads and off into the sunset."How good is this" issues from everyone's lips as a holiday feeling sweeps across the touring party.The Veneto is Trakka's latest medium size motorcamper and is built on a Fiat Ducato cab/ chassis unlike other Ducato-based motorcampers which are van based.It means the Veneto has a robust truck-like ladder chassis underneath, a high load capacity and a low centre of gravity.The cab is neatly joined to the accommodation unit and it drives well for a large weighty vehicle.Power comes from a turbo diesel 2.8-litre four cylinder driving the front wheels through a five speed manual transmission. A four-speed auto is also available.The engine is relatively economical and gives good performance considering the weight it's hauling. Cruising on the freeway at 110kmh is a breeze with the occasional downshift on steep hills.Fuel consumption allows about 500km touring range.The test vehicle had air rear suspension which is superb, smoothing rough roads, allowing the vehicle to be levelled at campsites and holding it comfortably on the road. The veneto has single rear wheels with heavy duty Michelin tyres. Brakes are Brembo and make light work of slowing the Veneto which can weigh up to around four tonnes fully wet with four people aboard.The vehicle is quite luxurious offering a swag of goodies for the $130,000 pricetag. It has two double beds on over cab the other down the back, an oven/grille, three burner cook top, gas/electric and battery fridge, shower/bathroom/toilet, TV, microwave oven, twin gas bottles, large fresh water storage, hot water system, grey water storage, integral 240V power cord, dual auxiliary batteries, oodles of cupboard and wardrobe space and air conditioning in the cabin and an electric system in the living area and numerous perspex side windows complete with screens and blinds and a number of skylights. The panoramic rear windscreen is a major attraction at campsites, especially if there is a view. It is also handy when driving the Veneto giving wide vision to the rear A large rear boot has two access doors where we stowed surfboards, fishing gear and folding seats.The side awning is a roll out type and a real asset in the warm weather for alfresco eating."Camping" in this vehicle is hardly what you'd call roughing it but still gives a quintessential outdoor experience with a touch of luxury and the practicality of a motorhome.

Last years paltry 1510 sales will certainly be overtaken this year especially with the appearance of some sexy new models including the new 9-5 soon, the 9-3 Aero sedan and Convertible and now the 9-3 SportCombi.It's a funny name and would have immediate recognition with baby boomers - as a VW not as a Saab although there was a Saab Combi three door back in the 1970s.What does the name mean?Who knows and does it matter?The Saab SportCombi is a sport wagon aimed at the likes of Subaru Liberty, Audi Avant and BMW Touring, oh, and Volvo V50.Two models will be available in manual and auto: the 110kW, 2.0-litre Linear with a turbo four cylinder engine and the 184kW Aero which has a turbo 2.8-litre V6 engine.The Linear transmission is a five speed manual with optional five speed auto while the Aero has six speed manual or six speed auto.The cars are essentially the same to look at carrying typical Saab styling DNA at the front but a funky new rear end with large upright, clear lens LED tail lights, aluminium tailgate and some classy looking metal bright work.The accentuated wedge profile with a high waistline adds to SportCombi's visual urgency and so do the gorgeous wheels in 17in or optional 18in diameter.They are five star NCAP cars with six air bags and ESP among an impressive safety inventory.And as expected, luxury abounds inside complete with a distinctive "crayon" smell.Standard equipment levels are high in both cars and the interior is roomy and comfortable with a large expandable load space at the back. The spare is a full size and there are some clever storage systems dotted through the cabin.The Aero is a potent piece of kit offering rapid acceleration in manual and auto with tidy sporty dynamics to match. It feels totally controlled at all speeds if a little jiggly on rough roads. We'd go for the auto.The Linear is much more sedate but more sensible for everyday use. Oh, and it's about thirty grand less to buy into the bargain.Once again, the auto gets the nod because it's so smooth and easy to drive in the city. Pricing starts at $45,400 for the Linear manual.

Undelining this is the number of accolades won by the Euro.So it comes as no surprise that when upgrade time comes around, Honda isn't about to implement wholesale changes to one of its best selling models.Such is the case with the '06 Accord Euro which has undergone minimal changes to the front and rear bumpers, grille and wheels. That's about the strength of it but satellite navigation is now available as an option on the high spec' Luxury model – for $3000.Sharp eyed car spotters might also notice changes inside to the fascia and trip computer but that's about it.The price starts at $33,500 for the manual Euro which is great buying considering what you get. Move up to the Luxury at $42,500 and it's a whole lot better.The new look is more appealing than ever and our satnav equipped test car was great to drive for the week especially with its fully integrated guidance system taking us here and there.But the car's essentials remain the same: potent 2.4-litre four cylinder engine with 140kW/223Nm output, remarkable fuel econ- omy for a medium size prestige car, great handling and ride and heaps of style.The five-speed auto test car was a treat to drive in all conditions particularly when using the sequential shift mode with the change in the right direction, pulling back for up and push away for down. The five ratios harness Euro's power smoothly and contribute to the impressive economy which can get down to 8.0L/100km.Interior luxury is bountiful stretching to full leather and climate control, premium audio, multi function information system, sporty seats and steering wheel, and power assistance for most ancillaries.It will take five at a pinch, four adults in comfort and the boot is a good size.What we really like about the Euro, apart from just about everything else is its styling – subtle, aggressive, sporty, sexy, classy – it still has as much appeal as it did at launch in 2003. Many new models don't look half as good today.Yep, if it was our money on the line, this car would be on the short list.

Something half the size and weight is going to be a much more entertaining proposition especially when it's blessed with a potent 2.0-litre engine generating 131kW/200Nm output.It also consumes considerably less juice.Renault's Clio Sport Cup is such a car, and it's an absolute hoot to drive – much more fun than something like a Holden Commodore SS which has twice the power but is almost twice the weight.The Clio Cup is a supplementary model to the Clio Sport – with stiffer suspension, a lower ride height and different alloy wheels. Cup is a more engaging drive as a result, gripping the road like the proverbial slot car and conveying plenty of information about the road back to the driver.The Cup model costs about $35,000 which is a fair old ask for such a small car but it has a big heart. Acceleration in a straight line is extremely rapid giving the Cup a David and Goliath status when stacked up against a big, high-powered, heavy hitter.Come to some tight corners and it's "bye for now."The Cup is a three door hatchback with a rigid chassis, a wheel at each corner, wide stance and massive brakes – the ideal cornering combo.The idea is to point it at a set of switchbacks, snick it into gear and fire it up for a most satisfactory driving experience. A car like this is inherently safer than a mere hatchback econobox due to its dexterity, reponsiveness and high quality components such as the Michelin tyres and sophisticated electronic controls that include ABS and electronic stability program (ESP).It also looks, feels and sounds the business.Those twin, wide spaced exhaust tips growl a stirring note, the low ride height looks like a hunkered down athlete and the dark wheels give a slightly sinister appearance to the little Cup.Inside is compact but funky with a splash of metallic fascia and trims, sports seats climate control and multi textured upholstery. The audio is average but the pedals are proper drilled items and the stering wheel has a number of controls arranged around it per- imeter.It uses a negligible amount of fuel when used sparingly, appreciably more when the wick is turned up. The engine is a non-turbo, 2.0-litre twin cam with variable intake cam timing. It has impressive performance across a broad engine speed range.Safety eqyuipment includes four air bags and auto on xenon headlights. The wipers also have an auto function. 

The turbo Sportback is also available in front-wheel drive bringing it even closer to the Golf but Quattro is not available with automatic transmission.The Audi is a step up on the Golf in quality as well as price and really is a beautiful little car. Engine performance from the turbo-charged, direct injection, four pot is excellent as well as being economical and "clean".The turbo Sportback (a flash name for a five-door hatch) rates as one of the classiest small hatchbacks we have driven but costs a bit ? $50,550.Engine is the model of sophistication ? uses common rail technology as well as variable cam timing, balance shafts and is force fed by a turbo. Output is a healthy 147kW/280Nm.This is the most affordable entry into the all-wheel drive Audi quattro world.Engine passes stringent Euro 4 emissions regulations and runs on 98 octane petrol. Has a high compression ratio for a turbo for gains in response.All dynamics have sports setting meaning firmish ride, quick steering, differential lock and powerful brakes with grippy tyres. Electronic stability program part of the package and boosts safety.Six-speed manual a treat to use, short throws, closely spaced ratios but reverse in the wrong place.Sprints from 0-100kmh is 7.1 seconds, gets about 9.0 litres/ 100km fuel economy.Weighty little beast at 1470kg which explains why it's not as quick as the Golf GTi.Interior is relatively spacious as long as there are no large passengers in the rear seats. Load area expandable with folding rear pew.Looks fantastic, screams class and quality and shape is attractive. Front treatment is distinctive and profile is cheeky. Interior difficult to criticise on any score.Has impressive audio system and wide array of standard equipment, particularly like leather wheel with multiple control buttons.Sports seats need lumbar support adjustment but offer good cornering support.Leather upholstery and flash metallic-look trim is optional as is striking glass roof ? its all glass incorporating a front opening section and is called "Open Sky".Love the 17in alloys.Protected by DataDot and contains a high level of safety equipment including six air bags, ABS and other features.

But they cost soooo much. Since the demise of Daihatsu and its sub-$30,000 Copen dinky sports car, the mantle for the most affordable roofless drive goes to Peugeot with its 206CC 1.6.It sells for $32,990, two grand more for the auto.But the big thing to consider here is the CC's metal folding roof. No longer do you have to suffer the anxiety associated with a vinyl roof soft top convertible as the CC's roof is all metal and folds electrically into the boot. Crooks will need an oxy torch to cut through the roof instead of a pen knife with vinyl. And foul weather is quickly and totally excluded at the push of a button.A "tin top" is the perfect roofless set up and gives rise to the car's name: CC equals Coupe/ Cabriolet.And it's a sexy looking little critter, styled by Bertone and featuring some novel touches like the twin boot "handles", ribbed boot lid, extremely angled windscreen and angry front end.Pointy at the front, rounded at the rear, you can't mistake the CC for anything else on the road and it looks good with the roof up or down.Bearing in mind this is a small car, the two rear seats are pretty well a waste of time unless there are small people in the front and back. Room inside the cabin with two aboard is good.We have secured this little beauty for the summer season and have already ventured forth to the beach, the lake and out on a Friday night ( with the roof off of course).It creates a buzz when you arrive somewhere and everyone looks. Kiddies love to see the roof deployed or retracted.The test car is a 1.6-litre auto, a four speeder with sequential change mode. Five ratios would be better but as it stands, the little Pug gets going neatly and willingly flicks up or down a cog or two as needed. If it doesn't make things happen fast enough for you, there is always the sequential mode.It rides and handles with a degree of sportiness and the chassis seems rock solid, roof up or down.Safety concerns have been well dealt with as the CC has four air bags, roll over bars, ABS and electric brake force distribution (EBD).Engine performance is good for a 1.6 thanks to the 80kW/147Nm output. Fuel consumption is minimal averaging around 8.0 litres/100km.

Kia has lifted its game hugely in the past few years. Witness the Sorento, Tucson and Cerato, all attractively styled and well put together vehicles.Cerato is a mainstream compact sedan with plenty of appeal for a buyer on a budget. It offers a whole lot of car for the $18990 drive away ask.There's a four speed auto available for an extra two grand – drive away.Roomy body, five seater, five three point belts, big boot. 2.0-litre, DOHC engine has 101kw/182Nm output giving peppy performance even in auto. Auto is a four speeder, doesn't miss a beat, lacks a little smoothness changing under hard acceleration. No sequential mode – big deal. Ride/handling impressive thanks to strut front, multi-link rear suspension. Power steering, power windows, remote central locking and aircon included in the package. Heated exterior mirrors, electrically adjustable too. Almost instant demist in the cold. Audio is six speaker, pleasing sound, easy to operate. Safety features include dual front air bags. ABS not available but four wheel discs. Low noise, vibration and harshness through most engine speeds, quiet on the freeway. Economical in mixed driving expect around 8.5l/100km out of auto. Tank holds 55 litres. Interior looks modern, airy, better than many other offerings in the segment. Finish is up with Japanese, smooth paint, neat panel fit, tidy interior, chunky door close. Like the styling, crisp lines, purposeful front, tidy rear – something different. Smooth quiet ride over rough surfaces.