Wagon Reviews

In a world dominated by hulking SUV family haulers, Mercedes-Benz is bucking the trend with its CLS Shooting Brake.

Given the chance, would you go for the Audi Q5 or the Audi A6 Avant (wagon)? Both are practical carry-alls, same powertrain in the four cylinder variants.But SUVs rule right now possibly because they take practicality to high levels while neatly side stepping all that prestige palaver. They also offer impressive value for money. Audi has just expanded its medium large A6 lineup with the $81,880 Avant in 2.0-litre petrol turbo TFSi and the $82,900 2.0-litre TDi turbodiesel tested here.DESIGNIt's a real glamour that's for sure - looks much sleeker and sexier than the boxy Q5 and therein lies the attraction. Not everybody wants a prestige SUV to drive around in. Some will pay a premium to look cool or to drive something different.That's because it drives the front wheels efficiently through an eight step Constantly Variable Transmission (CVT) that slurs initially but hooks up nicely once you're underway. And there are paddles to click it up and down if you feel the need.TECHNOLOGYThe engine is good for 130kW and 380Nm output - not earth shattering in diesel terms but sufficient to give the A6 Avant a decidedly sporty feel for a largish, luxury family wagon tipping the scales at over 1700kg. Part of that pork is due to the generous level of standard kit inside the sumptuous interior.Audi really does stylish interiors and this one is up there featuring a large info' screen with Audi's excellent MMI Navigation + system, Bang and Olufsen audio and all the rest. Naturally there's metres of supple leather and seats for five with a large expandable load space. Like the clever 360 degree parking camera and assistance.DRIVINGWe took the Avant 2.0 TDi for a good squirt last week covering some 800km. We were still on the same tank of fuel which showed a further 200+ kms in reserve. It's amazingly frugal and yet, dealing with the trucks and lunatics out on the open road, the 2.0-litre turbo diesel doesn't give anything away in the go department.Driving the Avant you forget it's a wagon such is the composure with which it negotiates corners and rough roads. Audi was able to shave weight from the new Avant compared to the previous model thanks greater use of aluminium.There's drive select and efficiency mode to get the most out of the car as well as an electronic limited slip differential for greater grip. We love the sensor tailgate operation, LED driving lights and benefits of auto stop/start.Audi A6 Avant 2.0 TDiPrice: from $82,900Warranty: 3 year roadsideCrash rating: n/aEngine: 2.0-litre turbo-diesel 4-cyl petrol, 130kW/380NmTransmission: CVT; front-wheel driveThirst: 5.1L/100km; 135g/km CO2Dimensions: 4926mm (L), 1874mm (W), 1461mm (H)Weight: 1640kg

Skoda has approached its return to Australia in a canny European manner. Rather than rushing in with bottom end cars to gain quick sales, and then trying to lift its image by aiming at the medium-premium segments, Skoda started at the top end. By doing so it has gained credibility and is now pushing down into the affordable car area.VALUEThe result is that Skoda, now five years into its revival in Australia, has just sold its 10,000th car downunder. It’s also quickly making its name in the affordable end of the hot-hatch scene with the great little Fabia RS as well as a five-door station wagon should the hatch rear end not supply enough luggage space for your needs. The RS starts at a modest $27,990.TECHNOLOGYSkodas use major mechanical components from Volkswagen – having been controlled by the giant German company since the early 1990s when the communist era ended in the Czech Republic – and the Fabia RS shares a Twincharger 1.4-litre petrol engine, transmissions and suspension with the Volkswagen Polo GTI.We were most impressed with the hot little Fabia’s performance. With 132 kW of power, and a strong 250 Nm of torque all the way between 2000 rpm and 4500 rpm, the Fabia RS is a pocket rocket. It goes from zero to 100 km/h in just 7.3 seconds.The use of both a supercharger and turbocharger provides strong push throughout most of the rev range. From about 1500 you can feel the torque working, it quickly rises when you get to 2500 revs and pulls in a very linear manner when it’s comfortably over 5500 rpm.This straight-line speed is enhanced by the seven-speed DSG dual-clutch gearbox. In flat-out mode the transmission is great to sit behind, switching gears faster than humanly possible.DESIGNThe Polo GTI and Fabia RS have quite different appearances, with the Volkswagen leaning in a mildly conservative direction, while the Skoda has gone for a chunky out-of-the-ordinary look that we love. There’s a hint or two of the cheeky shapes favoured by the British Mini in the character lines of Czech Skoda, these are emphasised by the availability of numerous colour combinations. Letting buyers design their own car by way of accessories is an excellent idea and can result in real fashion statements.Our Skoda Fabia RS road test car came in yellow, which is a bold move in a conservative market like Australia. But, hey this is a sporting model for the young and for the young at heart. Indeed the young at heart could be big buyers of these little cars because in their teenage years bright colours were all the rage in cars, clothes, interior design – you name it.We are currently in the standard Fabia (not the RS) that is a metallic blue and while that shade also works well with the Fabia's lines it doesn’t exactly leap out on the street scene.SAFETYElectronic Stability Control (ESC), ABS brakes with EBD and Brake Assist are standard to minimise the chances of having a crash – as are six airbags should you still get it wrong. The Skoda Fabia has been designed with pedestrian impact in mind, so the front bumper and bonnet are designed to deform on impact and absorb energy.DRIVINGWhile the DSG works well under hard acceleration and deceleration, like many of its type it is a bit of a dog in slow situations. Even worse, it can surprise when parking in first or reverse gears by responding too quickly to any throttle input. For some reasons no two double-clutch gearboxes are identical in the way they perform, which must be so frustrating for engineers trying to make them work to perfection.The Skoda Fabia RS will really suit those who like to ‘drive' cars. It is stable on all but the worst of Australia's roads and feels really sound in hard cornering. There is some steer torque, which is hardly a surprise in a sporty small hatch with a modified engine, but it is manageable and those who like a bit of character in their car will love that gentle tugging on the steering wheel under hard acceleration.We like the chassis, it uses MacPherson struts at the front and a semi-independent read end, is a relatively sophisticated setup for a car in the affordable class. The suspension is on the firm side at times, but on the whole it soaks up most bumps without any banging and thumping. Those who like sporting cars will forgive the hot RS for its actions. At 10 metres the Fabia has a tight turning circle and the all-round driver's view is excellent.VERDICTThe hottest Fabia is a great little hot hatch around town and a superb tourer for steep and winding roads where you can really get stuck into the corners.

Audi has been the mover in the local prestige market for the past few years, steadily increasing its footprint by moving into every corner of the market frequented by the well-heeled among us. It began with a range of passenger cars, but it was only a matter of time before it sunk its teeth into the SUV market.NEWAudi has been the mover in the local prestige market for the past few years, steadily increasing its footprint by moving into every corner of the market frequented by the well-heeled among us. It began with a range of passenger cars, but it was only a matter of time before it sunk its teeth into the SUV market. The Q5 was its main strike SUV weapon.It was a medium-sized SUV that was nicely priced to appeal to 'burb dwellers looking for a wagon with style and road presence. Under the four-door SUV wagon laid Audi's renowned Quattro all-wheel drive system, a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, and a choice of four petrol and diesel engines.Apart from the aggressive Audi grille the styling was rather plain; the lines were clean, the shapes boxy. Open the door and you entered a roomy cabin with comfortable accommodation for five with heaps of creature comforts like compartments for wet of dirty items and drink holders for heating and cooling, as well as the usual things like air, cruise, power windows and mirrors, and great sound systems. There was also neat flexibility built into the cabin to make it more useful.Not only was the cabin spacious, with great luggage space, you could fold the rear seat flat to create an even more sizable space for carrying stuff. With four engines in the range there was one for everyone, whatever your priority. For economy there was the 2.0-litre turbo-diesel and the 2.0-litre turbo petrol engines, for performance there was the 3.2-litre V6 petrol, and for a combination of performance and economy there was the 3.0-litre turbo-diesel that would sprint to 100 km/h in 6.5 seconds and deliver 7.5 L/100 km between fuel stops.There was just one transmission offered, that was a seven-speed dual-clutch auto, and the final drive was through all four wheels with Audi's Quattro all-wheel drive system. On the road the Q5 accelerated briskly, was smooth and flexible, and quiet and comfortable to ride in.NOWNow three years old the Q5 is coming off lease and moving into the sphere of the second hand buyers looking to own a prestige car at a discount price. A used Q5 can be had for the price of a new model from less prestige brands, like Honda, Nissan, Toyota etc., which can be an appealing prospect for many buyers.The build quality of the Q5 is such that there is little to show for three years or so on the road, unless they've been hammered mercilessly for the first years of ownership will still be showing near new as they move into their new owners hands. While it's unlikely that they will have been mistreated it's still wise to make the usual checks for regular servicing and crook panel work.When test driving a car for possible purchase drive it in as many situations as possible, low-speed crawl, high-speed freeway, fast acceleration, manoeuvring at walking speed etc. Listen for knocks and clunks from the suspension, also thoroughly check out the operation of the rather complex seven-speed auto transmission.Walk away if you observe any glitch in its function. Drive around congestion areas, like schools, parking lots etc. and local roads and check for blind spots. Large pillars can often restrict your vision and block your view of pedestrians, cyclists and children. It should also be noted that the petrol versions of the Q5 require premium unleaded petrol, they also have large low-profile tyres that can be expensive to replace, and parts and servicing are relatively expensive.SMITHY SAYSAs good as an SUV gets the Q5 is a first class choice for second hand buyers with cash to splash.AUDI Q5 - 2009-2010Price new: $59,990 to $71,990 Engines: 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbo-diesel, 125 kW/ 350 Nm; 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder, 155 kW/350 Nm; 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel, 176 kW/500 Nm; 3.2-litre V6, 199 kW/330 Nm. Transmissions: 7-speed dual-clutch auto, AWD Economy: 6.8 L/100 km (2.0 TD), 8.5 L/100 km (2.0T), 7.5 L/100 km  (3.0TD), 9.3 L/100 km (3.2) Body: 4-door wagon Variants: 2.0 TDi, 2.0 TFSi, 3.0 TDi, 3.2 FSi Safety: 5-star ANCAP 

Circle the wagons, the SUVs are coming. That's certainly the case in Australia as buyers opt for a higher ride but the Europeans still mount a solid case for a load-lugger. In the case of Audi's A4 Avant, the 2.0-litre turbodiesel is a piece of precision German engineering that works well in the city or on the highway and comes with a build quality second to none.VALUEAt $60,900 the Audi 2.0 TDI wins the price war by $2000 against the Volvo V60 D3 Teknik, BMW 320d Touring and Mercedes-Benz C200 CDI Estate. There's not much else separating this group the Volvo wins the space race, the Beemer has a marginal edge in performance; the Merc carries the most cache.So it comes down to which car you like the look of. The Audi is packaged with cruise control, auto lights and wipers, rear parking sensors and a bunch of clever interior features like the velour/rubber reversible cargo mat.TECHNOLOGYThe engine stop/start system in the Audi is good but the version in the 3.0-litre diesel fires up faster and with no shudder, rather than the negligible shake in the 2.0-litre wagon. Either way, it helps trim 0.3 litres/100km off the fuel use. Once underway the Audi's baby diesel is impressive and is matched to one of the few CVT systems Carsguide can recommend.The "Multitronic" on the A4 makes light work of pedestrian cruising or off-the-line charges and has a faux eight-speed manual shift mode.DESIGNAudis are unmistakable erentiating the model from the brand isn't as easy. The A4s lines are refined in an era of razor-sharp creases and that isn't a bad thing. The interior is classy enough o have forced BMW and Mercedes to lift their game. High-quality plastics and chrome highlights are packaged with leatherette/leather trim and a multimedia interface that doesn't take Einstein to interpret.SAFETYPrestige cars in this class are expected to have five stars and the Audi doesn't disappoint. In the crash-test lab it just trails BMW and Mercedes, according to ANCAP. Put that down purely to age the A4 hit the wall in 2008 while the other two are newer models that were tested in 2011. Six airbags and an advanced ABS system with traction and stability control are standard on all A4s.DRIVINGThis is a good wagon, as befits the volume seller in the Audi range. The fact it's front-wheel drive is irrelevant for most it takes far more provocation to unsettle this vehicle than sane people will attempt with their friends or family on board. Body roll is minimal and it handles mid-corner ruts at any pace. Around town it still achieves a cushy ride and the electric steering adjusts to suit the speed, making light work of carpark manoeuvres then weighting up on B-roads.The standard sound system isn't as good as the Merc's, at least according to my keener-eared kids, though it still pumps out crisp notes at high volumes. Otherwise, the interior is first rate it smells, touches and reacts like a much more expensive vehicle in the understated way that isAudi's signature style. The engine note is one of the few criticisms we can mount Euro diesels are starting to sound growly good but the CVT on the Audi keeps things too atonal.VERDICTThe segment price-leader is just plain old good value. The A4 Avant doesn't skimp on features or performance and the $2000 saving on its rivals will buy a lot of diesel given its fuel economy.Audi A4 Avant 2.0 TDIPrice: $60,990Warranty: Three years/unlimited kmResale: 56 per cent (three years, Glass's Guide)Safety: Six airbags, ABS, TC, ESC, Attention assistCrash rating: Five starsEngine:  2.0-litre turbodiesel, 130kW/380NmTransmission: CVT, front-wheel driveDimensions: 4.7m (L), 1.83m (W), 1.44m (H)Weight: 1575kgSpare: Space-saverThirst: 4.9L/100km (diesel), 129g/km CO2

Dismiss this article about a large Australian car and it may cost you money. Despite what you may have been told, you can buy a big, affordable made-for-Australia car that will beat European diesels hands down in running costs.The reason is gas - liquified petroleum gas (LPG) that is about half the price of petrol, available almost everywhere and home-made from a gas shelf near you. The similarly-equipped Omega wagon with the 3-litre V6 petrol is $6000 cheaper than the LPG Berlina here and appears to get better fuel economy at 9.2 L/100km.But the 12.3 L/100km of the LPG version actually equates to about 6.5 L/100km because LPG is half the price of petrol. Holden says the range is now about 700km.If that doesn't swing you, the capped service on the LPG-fuelled Berlina is $265 a year for the first three years and Holden finance is now 0.5 per cent comparative rate. Then there's the $2000 rebate from the government. But - and there's always a but - this car's rate of depreciation would make an incoming Space Shuttle jealous.The Berlina model tested has extra gear over the entry-level Omega which lifts it out of the fleet brigade. But at $47,990 it's not especially cheap. Value is in the similar LPG-fuelled wagon limited edition Equipe. It costs $42,490 and includes 18-inch alloys, leather upholstery, metallic paint and a rear camera.The Berlina alone isn't bad - rear-park sensors, iPod/USB/Bluetooth audio, colour touchscreen monitor, 17-inch alloys and an electric driver's seat.Once rated alongside noses for their ubiquity, the Commodore wagon has been driven off the streets by small-engined Asian cars. Styling is a traditional Aussie rear-drive two-box shape and despite the squeezed parameters in which Holden designers live, the Sportwagon - nee station wagon - is a pleasant and purposeful thing.There's heaps of cabin room, flat-fold rear seats and firm-but-comfortable front seats borrowed from Lufthansa. But the dashboard design is aging fast and the fold-down handbrake lever is itching for a chance to pinch the skin on your fingers.The LPG system is now dedicated - that is, no more dual-fuel compromise - but remains a vapour system. So it takes the liquid from the 84-litre rear-mounted tank and warms it to gas before plunging it into the engine's cylinders. It's not as efficient as the new Ford EcoLPi liquid-injection unit.This tester is a 3.6-litre V6. The LPG Commodores get the proper six-speed automatic and other than the fact they dish out more torque than the petrol equivalent, that's about the extent of new-age innovation. Regardless, it's a simple and durable package.This is a high point. In addition to being surrounded by a lot of metal and having so much space around the occupants, the Commodore gets electronic stability and traction control, a five-star crash rating, rear camera, park sensors, brake assist and a string of other aids. There's also six airbags. Holden gets an elephant stamp for offering a choice of spare wheels.The aerosol repair kit is standard then you can offer money for a collapsed spare, a space-saver spare or a real wheel. The tester had a real one but to make it fit, it sits upright in the wagon's cargo area and limits load carrying.Holden employees like to drive. That's evident in a family wagon that has very predictable handling and even the "fun'' word can be applied. It's a sure-footed car that has very accurate steering feel, flat cornering stance and excellent ride comfort over uneven surfaces. Tyre noise on coarse bitumen is low compared with most imports. It's a big car but handles like one a lot smaller, though the large-diameter steering wheel can feel bus-like.The LPG engine is responsive - though needs extra cranks to start - but sounds harsh and thrashy when under acceleration. The saving grace is the six-speed automatic. Also unfavourable is the soft brake pedal feel. But, above these minors, the wagon is actually a good drive and though some cabin plastics may tell you otherwise, the car feels more durable on the road than many rivals

The competition for mid-sized sales has become fiercely contested in recent times as sales of the traditional big cars have plunged and buyers have turned elsewhere to spend their dollars. Some have turned to SUVs, others have downsized to mid-sized models where they have been spoiled for choice.NEWThe mid-sized market has split in two, with cars like the Cruze, Mondeo, Mazda6 and others forming an affordable group, while others like the Passat, Peugeot 407 and Renault Laguna coming together in a separate prestige grouping for those with more cash to splash. The Laguna was Renault's main strike weapon when it re-entered the Australian market in 2001, but failed to get much attention and sales slumbered.Step forward to 2008 and the company had a another crack at making a mark on the market, and a new Laguna was again flying the tricolor. This time it was position as the company's flagship and was equipped as such. That also meant it carried a hefty price tag. There were two body styles offered, a hatch and a wagon, and three models in the Expression, Privilege and Dynamique. The new model was longer, wider and taller than the earlier model, but a smidgeon lighter.Two engines were offered, one a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder that delivered decent performance while slurping premium unleaded, the other was a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel that was the best driver of the two thanks to its enormous reserves of torque in the range that's best suited to everyday driving. Renault also offered two transmissions, a six-speed auto was the primary 'box across the range and was a smooth operator with seamless shifts and easy drivability, and there was a six-speed manual available in some models.Out on the road the Laguna's ride was comfortable, much as you would expect a French car to be, while the handling was surprisingly agile and reassuring, with a high level of grip. Inside the cabin the Laguna was a little plain, but spacious and well appointed.NOWRenault build quality has always been questionable and the Laguna is no different. It can be variable, so check possible purchases thoroughly before deciding to buy. We receive few complaints here at Carsguide to suggest there are any issues worth noting with the car,but that could simply be a result of the low sales.It's also worth checking where you could have the car serviced, as the dealer network isn't as large as some other brands and that could mean a longish trip to have an oil change and lube job. There are specialist mechanics around who not only know the Renault brand, but also take pride in working on the cars, and that often means you'll get a better job from a more conscientious worker.Look for oil leaks around the engine, check for coolant leaks as well, and make sure your chosen car has been regularly serviced. There have been reports of poor AM radio reception, even in major cities, and that suggests Renault Australia hasn't done its homework.SMITHY SAYSComfortable transport with refined road manners, with a few small issues. No bargain. One for the diehards.Renault Laguna 2008-2010Price new: $42,990 to $49,990Engine: 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder, 125 kW/270 Nm; 2.0-litre turbo-diesel 4-cylinder, 110kW/340 NmTransmission: 6-speed auto, 6-speed manual, FWDEconomy: 8.9 L/100 km (petrol), 6.0 L/100 km (TD)Body: 5-door hatch, 4-door wagonVariants: Expression, Privilege, DynamiqueSafety: 5-star ANCAPCOMING UPDo you own a Ford Fiesta? If so tell us what you think of itby sending your comments to Graham Smith at grah.smith@bigpond.com or Carsguide, PO Box 4245, Sydney, NSW, 2010.  

A big V8 Commodore Sportwagon, an SS V no less, can arrive or depart as noisily as the driver dare.The Sportwagon is a lot of metal for the money - priced from $55,290 (or $ $57,290 for the auto as tested), the SS-V six-speed auto is a family wagon that the driver in the family will want to drive solo.The features list has the touchscreen satnav and entertainment system, with hard drive and USB input for the iPod, leather trim, 19in alloys, a limited slip differential, 19in alloy wheels, sports front seats, a power-adjustable driver's seat, cruise control, rear parking sensors and camera, reach'n'rake adjustable steering, automatic headlights (but no auto wipers, that's Calais V only), dual zone climate control (with rear vents), power windows, Bluetooth phone and audio link, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with phone, audio, trip computer buttons.The six-litre overhead valve V8 is not exactly cutting edge but when teamed to the six speed automatic gets the brand's Active Fuel Management (AFM) cylinder drop-out system, which aims to save fuel by cutting supply to four of the eight cylinders when not required.The only drawback is slightly less urge - power (measured on 98RON PULP) drops 10kW to 260kW and peak torque is 517Nm, down from the manual model's 530Nm. And it lays claim to an ADR figure of 12.3, but the more powerful six-speed manual (that doesn't drop four cylinders) boasts an ADR consumption figure of 12.2.The test car finished it's time with us sporting a 17.7 litres per 100km trip computer figure - with more demure driving that figure would be reduced but the V8 needs some throttle pressure to make the right noises and solid forward progress.Flared wheel arches, an aggressive road stance, quad exhausts and a svelte rump - for a wagon - shows the family load lugger doesn't need to look dowdy or plain. The driver can get a good driving position in the Commodore, something the Adelaide car has over its Melbourne opposition - the seat and steering wheel have decent adjustment range and the dashboard doesn't feel like it’s going to squash your knees.Forward vision is only marred by the thick A-pillars, which is something not limited to Holden - the extra crash performance strength has come at the cost of a blindspot for the driver that needs careful attention, particularly at T-junction turns into traffic.The interior is starting to age but is well-laid out and useful - apart from the annoying power window and mirror switchgear in the centre - and while the cargo area might not be as voluminous as the old repmobile Commodore wagon, it still has 895 litres of cargo space, or 2000 if you drop the rear seats.The big Holden kid-carter wears five stars from ANCAP - stability and traction control, anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution, front seatbelts with load limiters and pretensioners, dual front, front-side and full-length curtain airbags all appear on the safety features list.Much was made about the VE's body strength when it was launched, including the use of ultra-high strength steel particularly in the B-pillar. The test car also had the optional full-size spare tyre fitted.You might not look at a wagon as a fun vehicle to drive, but you'd be wide of the mark. The SS V - even in the automatic - is capable of covering ground at a considerable rate, without feeling like the additions to the rear end detract from the experience.If anything, a little extra weight over the rear makes things more amusing. The steering is light but accurate and the wagon is a doddle to pilot around town, with ample low-end grunt from the engine. The transmission is not as smart as some of the opposition's transmissions but it remains an improvement over some of the earlier Holden autos.Ride quality is testimony to the good work of Holden's engineers, dealing with bumps without resorting to rattling teeth out to maintain cornering ability. On a familiar back road the Commodore wagon turns in with enthusiasm and hangs on with gusto - only the overly-aggressive Sport mode is a negative, one that prompts the driver to opt for manual changes.Making the V8 sing and making more use of the upper rev range does have its drawbacks, mainly at the petrol pump. If you want to get the most out of the engine then PULP is a must-have, so when the trip computer is regularly in the mid-teens the V8 Orchestra's novelty might wear off at $1.40-plus a litre eith the electronics off there's scope for anti-social behaviour, or a little wag of the tail, depending on your right foot.Cabin accommodation is good, with rear passengers getting decent space on comfy pews, with easy installation of child booster seats thanks to an anchor point on the backrest, which doesn't restrict the load space. They also get aircon vents without the overhead glare coming through the sedan's rear window, which can get rough on rear occupants in summer.

Not so long ago you would have been considered daft to compare a car made in Korea with one made in Europe. Not any more.The Hyundai i40 Tourer has the latest fuel-efficient engines, and a range of affordable prices. With the i40 Tourer, released late last year ahead of the i40 sedan out in June this year, even the most expensive of the eight models is well under $50,000.The Active petrol costs $32,490 (auto $34,490), the Active turbo diesel costs $34,490 (auto $36,490), the Elite petrol auto $39,490, the Elite diesel auto $41,490, the Premium petrol auto $44,490 and the Premium auto diesel $46,490. The same trim levels are available in the $2500 cheaper i40 sedan. We drove the 1.7 litre, which has an output of 100kW and 320Nm (330Nm in the manual) and combined fuel use is 5.6l/100km that, when combined with a 70-litre fuel tank, gives a range of up to 1200km.Standard features are six-speed manual or automatic transmissions, a rear camera, 16-inch alloy wheels, a single CD audio with MP3, iPod, USB and Bluetooth, cruise control with speed limiter, adaptive front lights, day lights, electric park brake, paddle shifts and a sequential mode on the automatic, and a five-year warranty.The Elite adds a six-CD premium sound system, 17-inch alloy wheels, luggage rails and front and rear parking sensors. The Premium adds a panoramic sunroof, rear-view camera, 18-inch alloy wheels, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, automatic demisting, a load net and privacy glass.Styling is sleek and swoopy from its chiselled eagle-eyed front to its sculptured flanks and tapered tail. And the interior has a stylish layout, quality trim, easy controls, copious storage and snug seats front and rear. More a sports wagon than a load lugger, the big cargo area includes a full-size spare tyre.Standard safety features are nine airbags, stability control with emergency brake system and cornering brake control,On test, the turbo diesel proved to be frugal and willing. It accelerates smoothly, has respectable mid-range thrust and cruises quietly. If you could drive Hyundai's i40 blindfolded you could be forgiven for thinking you were in a premium European car. It's not surprising considering it was designed in Germany. Gripes are few. The high waistline and small rear window impair rear vision, the base model needs rear parking sensors, and there's no sat-nav.The i40 has that secure, warm and inviting feel expected of a Euro brand and has a smooth ride and confident handling.

NEW - The WRX rally weapon inevitably comes to mind when you think of the Subaru Impreza, but the smallest member of the Subaru family is much more than that.If the WRX is the one young tearaways buy, the regular Imprezas are the ones bought by regular people. The new model that arrived in 2007 as a hatch only boasted all-wheel drive like all Subarus, and that’s what separates it from its rivals.Subaru made the smart move to all-wheel drive many years ago when it was struggling to find a place in the market, and has gone gang-busters ever since. Two body styles were offered; initially it was only a hatch in 2007 before a sedan arrived a year later.It was longer, higher and heavier than the previous model, with reasonable boot space. Power was provided by a 2.0-litre horizontally-opposed four-cylinder engine that had a little less power than the engine in the previous model, but more torque.In total it had 110 kW and 196 Nm, which was enough to get the job done without causing any excitement. In standard guise the Impreza came with a five-speed manual transmission with the option of a four-speed automatic, and the final drive was through all four wheels.On the road the Impreza showed the advantage of all-wheel drive in the poise and traction is had on all surfaces. It particularly came into its own on slick surfaces where other two-wheel drive cars struggled.There were three models offered before you got to the sporty ones like the WRX, these were the R, RX and RS. The RS had previously been a sporty model in earlier Imprezas, but was now a regular model with the same mechanical package as the rest of the regular range.NOWThe Impreza doesn't have any issues that need concern a used car buyer; the trade gives them its tick of approval. But one thing to be aware of is that, like all boxer engines, they use oil and you need to keep on top of it by regularly checking the oil and topping it up as needed.Don't leave it thinking that it will be right to leave it until the next service, because you might run it out of oil in the meantime and that could mean a big repair bill.It's important to check the oil level on any car under consideration for purchase, if down ask why. Some owners become less focussed on servicing once the warranty runs out, often skipping or delaying services and that can be where trouble starts, so be particularly attentive when inspecting a car when the warranty is up.SMITHY SAYSGood solid car that won't give trouble if it's properly serviced.Subaru Impreza - 2007-2010Price new: $26,490 to $31,490Engine: 2.0-litre 4-cylinder petrol, 110 kW/196 NmTransmission: 5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic, AWDEconomy: 8.8 L/100 km, ULPBody: 4-door sedan, 5-door hatchbackVariants: R, RX, RSSafety: 5-star ANCAP