Wagon Reviews

Used Subaru Liberty and Outback review: 1989-2012
By Ewan Kennedy · 17 Aug 2012
Subaru's largest passenger car, the Liberty, has a well-deserved reputation for toughness and reliability with Australian buyers. The Subaru Outback is an interesting variant on the Liberty station wagon. On the market since 1996 it is intended as a halfway step between a conventional station wagon and a dedicated 4WD.In its earlier models Subaru Outback had a tougher appearance than the standard wagon because of the additional protective plastic facings on the doors. These were discontinued with the new generation of 2003 to give the vehicle a more upmarket air, though there are many Subaru advocates who preferred the tougher look of the original.Since 1995 only all-wheel drive Liberty models have been sold in Australia, prior to then there were also front-wheel drive versions, even by 1995 these were comparatively rare because buyers had already sussed out the advantages of driving all four wheels.Unusually for Japanese cars, Libertys and Outbacks, indeed all Subarus, are popular with country drivers as well as those from metro areas. Libertys and Outbacks are much loved by snow skiers because their permanent all-wheel drive system makes them safer and more capable in slippery conditions than a 2WD vehicle.Subaru Liberty first arrived in this country in 1989 and struck a chord with local buyers almost immediately. These older models are generally getting long in the tooth so may be near the end of their lives. You’re probably better off avoiding them.Liberty is sold as a four-door sedan and a five-door station wagon, with a much larger percentage of wagons being sold than in other models in the mid-size class. The combination of the traction of all-wheel drive and the practicality of a wagon rear end is a strong one.The engines have a flat ‘boxer’ layout to lower the centre of gravity for improved road holding. Engine capacities in the four-cylinder models are 2.0, 2.2 and 2.5 litres. The 2.0 actually has more performance than the 2.2 being a later design.Flat-six engines began with a 3.0-litre unit in the Outback and later the Liberty range, its capacity increased to 3.6 litres in September 2009. Subaru calls the flat-six engines the H6 - ‘H’ for horizontally opposed, but most owners tend to retain the use of flat-six or boxer for it.There are a couple of high-performance Subaru Liberty variants. The Liberty RS has a 2.0-litre turbocharged unit and was introduced here in 1992. It was on sale for less than two years, when it was upstaged by the smaller and lighter Subaru Impreza WRX, a car that went on to be a huge success.The Liberty B4 sports machine has a twin-turbo 2.0-litre. It first came here in August 2001 but was somewhat of a disappointment in Australia because the engine had to be significantly detuned from the one offered on the Japanese market to run on our lower-octane petrol.These Subarus are reasonably easy to work on and most routine jobs can be carried out by an experienced home mechanic. However, safety items and most areas of the high-performance variants are best left to the professionals.Spare parts prices are about average for a car in this class. The Subaru dealer network, though relatively small, works efficiently. Because of Subarus’ popularity in country areas there are dealers in comparatively remote areas.Insurance charges on all but the turbocharged high-performance Liberty RS and Liberty B4 are moderate. The turbo models can be really expensive to cover, especially if you are a young and/or inexperienced driver. Living in a high-risk area further increases charges. Be sure to get a quote before falling in love with a turbo Liberty as premiums can be scary.Look over the interior trim and carpets for signs of damage, though they usually hold up well to all but the most outrageous of treatment. Mud or a real buildup of dust may indicate a lot of time spent of the beaten track.Check out the luggage area for signs of harsh treatment caused by carrying big and/or sharp loads. Have a look underneath a car, particularly the Outback, for signs of damage through it coming into contact with the ground. Some owners really do treat them as though they are ‘real’ 4WDs.The undersides of the bumpers, especially on their corners, are usually the first to suffer. Be sure the engine starts quickly and immediately idles smoothly no matter how cold the conditions. The sixes are naturally smoother than the fours, but the latter should be pretty good as well. Manual gearboxes should be quiet in operation and gearchanges should be smooth and light. Automatics which tend to hunt up and down the gears, or which are slow to go into gear, could be due for an overhaul. Rust is not common in Subarus, but if one has been badly repaired after a crash it may get into the metal. Call in a professional inspector if there’s the slightest doubt.
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Peugeot 508 Allure Touring 2012 review
By Neil Dowling · 15 Aug 2012
Two decades ago Peugeot started to lose the plot. Its armchair-soft ride and sense of toughness - both in feel and in its chunky styling - drifted into mainstream and suddenly the French car was easy prey for the Asian car makers.Thanks to its 508, I think it's back to the old days. There is a return to that elegance yet strength of design, the comfortable chairs and a cockpit that appears simple yet is quietly comprehensive.This is Peugeot for the masses, unlike some previous models that appealed only to Europhiles. The 508's contemporary styling, sensible cabin and dash and a sweet drivetrain make it a very attractive buy for a broad range of motorists.VALUEVery good. The Allure HDi (turbo-diesel) isn't the top-line version yet has an excellent equipment list including leather, four-zone airconditioning, Bluetooth with audio streaming, keyless start and entry, front and rear park sensors, cruise control with brake function, panoramic glass roof and a “parking assistant” that calculates if the car will fit a chosen parking bay.Clearly, eyeballs are now redundant. It matches the endearing Volkswagen Passat wagon in price (but beats it on features) and is more expensive than the pragmatic Skoda and spacious Mondeo. These big-hitting rivals make it a close call. Peugeot's capped service plan (Ford also has one for six years but Volkswagen has none) helps it here.DESIGNYou'll miss this on the road and probably never find it again in a shopping centre carpark because it has few distinguishing features. Bland is a word that springs to mind yet it still has appeal for its clean lines and simplicity.The wagon shape is less boxy than most yet is remarkably spacious. But it's the cabin that gets more attention. It boasts a subtle blend of quality materials, upmarket design and comprehensive features.But personal storage space, especially in the tiny centre console, is poor. Clever ideas are the puddle lamps that shine at night beneath the mirrors, soft orange cabin lighting and backlit controls on the steering wheel. There's some discreet chrome edging trim to piano black highlights and quality carpets for the cabin and boot floor. The rear windows get sunshades to protect occupants, which is great for children.TECHNOLOGYThere's a lot of clever stuff hidden beneath that simple, aerodynamic exterior. The bonnet is aluminium, the 508 is 85 per cent recyclable and materials from sustainable sources make up 14 per cent of the car's 230kg of green polymers. These green materials are used in 30 car parts.The 120kW/340Nm turbo-diesel has a particulate filter (called FAP which reduces hydrocarbons) mated to a six-speed auto with paddle shifters. The 508 Allure gets MacPherson front suspension yet, oddly, the more expensive 508 GT has double wishbones.SAFETYThere are six airbags, a five-star crash rating, high pedestrian safety, automatic headlights and wipers and even a full-size spare on an alloy wheel. The Allure also gets cruise control with sensors to brake the car automatically.DRIVINGEverything points to a great drive but though the 508 wagon is very capable, there are a lot of soft corners. The engine is strong and well mated to the six-speed auto. This box tickles the engine's capabilities best by using the paddle shifters and the only downer is the typical turbo-lag at low revs and a gearshift pattern that changes up too quickly.It is a quiet, long-distance machine well suited to highways but isn't a sharp handler when pushed. The electric-assist steering is too vague to relay much information to the driver and though the car grips well through the bends, becomes a bit uncomfortable as the compliant suspension leads to bodyroll. Peugeot's switchgear has come a long way in the past few decades and now equates to the Asians in terms of ease of use and simplicity. The driver's seat could do with more padding or support.VERDICTPut this on your shopping list.
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Toyota Land Cruiser 200 Sahara turbo diesel 2012 review
By Chris Riley · 13 Aug 2012
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?Toyota's top of the line Landcruiser 200. Fitted with a V8 turbo diesel and all the trimmings.How much?Deep breath. $118,490 plus on road costs. That's a lot of money for a Toyota no matter how good it might be (mind you it's cheaper than the $140K Lexus)What are competitors?The aforementioned Lexus (brothers under the skin), top of the line Discovery and maybe the Ranger Rover Sport? Top of the line Patrol is not in the same ball park at just over $70K.What's under the bonnet?4.5-litre twin turbo V8 diesel. Kicks out 195kW of power and 650Nm of torque from 1600 revs. It's hooked up to a 6-speed automatic, with full time four-wheel drive. Can tow 3500kg.How does it go?Effortless is probably the best description. But it's a big wobbly truck that doesn't like to be hurried through corners. Off road however it has few rivals. Multi-Terrain Select that regulates wheel-spin in tough off-road conditions with five driver-selectable modes: rock, rock and dirt, mogul, loose rock, mud and sand.Is it economical?The diesel is rated at 10.3 litres/100km. We were getting 11.9 after 300km, with 600km to go according to the computer. With a 138 litre tank it has theoretical range of 1340km. At $1.42 or so a litre for diesel that still around $15 per 100km.Is it green?Make that a no. Gets only two stars from the Govt's Green Vehicle Guide. Benchmark Prius gets five.Is it safe?It's been around since 2007 but apparently hasn't been tested yet (last one got four stars).Is it comfortable?Like a loungeroom. Lots of leather and wood and it feels like you're driving on pillows. The beige/brown decor is real old school.What's it like to drive?Think big. Generally quiet inside. Smooth and responsive in a straightline, but gets out of shape easily with too much corner speed. Like the digital speedo display. Better satnav but misses out on speed camera warnings.Is it value for money?Additional kit includes Multi-Terrain Monitor with four cameras for checking terrain hazards. Also has four-zone air and airconditioned front seats, upgraded navigation system, power-operated tailgate, and three-position memory for the power driver's seat, steering wheel and exterior mirrors. Kids will like rear seat DVD with three pairs of wireless headphones.Would we buy one?Probably not. Unless we needed the seven seats we'd opt for something smaller and more dynamic.
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Used cars for sale under $7000 review
By Bill McKinnon · 06 Aug 2012
No matter how schmick the car looks, though, at this sort of money there are probably one or two expensive time bombs lurking within it.
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Bowser wowsers
By Neil Dowling · 02 Aug 2012
Fuel prices have edged higher in the past week and that's the direction they'll keep going for now.This week the Australian Institute of Petroleum fuel price report shows the national average for unleaded petrol rose by 1.5 cents a litre in the past week to 137.7 cents.The metropolitan average rose by 1.8 cents to 136.3 cents, while the regional average rose by 0.9 cents to 140.5 cents.CommSec chief economist Craig James says: "The bottom line is that motorists should expect petrol prices to edge their way higher if the positive mood on financial markets continues.Filling up the car with petrol is the single biggest weekly purchase for most households, so the future course of petrol prices will be keenly watched by any consumer-dependent business."But surely not so closely as they're being watched by you. With that in mind, we've found the cars that on current prices can be fuelled for about $1000 in a 15,000km driving year.These cars get Carsguide's Triple-F rating - they are all family and fuel friendly. We've used the manufacturers' claims for combined conditions, so if you're driving is mainly urban you'll go north of these numbers; if there's a good open road component it will be south.We've taken broad averages to arrive at our round figures (see below) but they are indicative of what you can achieve with judicious driving and making your visits to the bowser on the days of the lowest pricing.ANNUAL JUICE USE TAKES INTO ACCOUNT:National average price in the 12 months up to Friday July 27 according to Australian Institute of Petroleum15,000km annual averageManufacturer's claim for combined fuel useULP: 134.7 centsDiesel: 137.9 centsFAMILY SEDANToyota Camry HybridPrice: from $34,990Thirst: 5.2L/100km unleadedAnnual juice use: $1068.60If Toyota is synonymous with sci-fi looking hybrids, its best one is cloaked in anonymity. Indeed it doesn't get much more anonymous than a Camry, the Hybrid version of which looks exactly like the common or garden petrol version.It shares the good bits - seven airbags, five-star crash rating and a full-size spare wheel - but its economy is staggering: 5.2L/100km versus 7.8L/100km for the petrol Camry.  It's also quieter. In addition to using one-third less fuel, it costs $130 for each of the five services for the first four years or 75,000km.The price premium - $1,500 more than an equivalent petrol-only model - might pay off but the Hybrid model can tow only 300kg and the boot is slightly smaller. The top version, with near-Lexus levels of luxury, costs $41,490.FAMILY WAGONHyundai i40 Tourer dieselPrice: From $34,490Thirst: 4.7L/100km dieselAnnual juice use: $1,001.10In contrast with the gormless i45, Hyundai has done a great deal of local adaptation work on the i40 sedan. Even if the wagon does not yet have its specially-adapted-for-Oz suspension settings, it is a much better proposition than the i45.That miraculous fuel figure is for the manual, the action of which is a bit like stirring a stick though thick mud. Yet while the auto is claimed to use almost a litre more per 100km, on open road run between Sydney and Brisbane Carsguide recorded only 4.4L/100km.In any case, the sheer driveability of a diesel combined with a good auto makes it preferable. In solely city duty, the i40 is more likely to use above 8.0L, which is surely still worth it given the diesel's open road flair.SMALL SEDANHonda Civic HybridPrice: $35,990Thirst: 4.4L/100km unleadedAnnual juice use: $937.20Honda does a couple of obvious hybrids and one that's far less so. And the Civic version is arguably the best of its breed. The new Civic is a big jump from its distinctly average predecessor. It is up on quality and is simply far better to drive.It uses two power sources - petrol engine and electric motor - but unlike the Camry (and Prius) which can separate the two when needed, in the Civic Hybrid they work in tandem.This is technically simpler but returns higher fuel figures. The Civic Hybrid gets 4.4L/100km against the Prius's 3.9. Still, it's more spacious than the old model and needs smaller batteries so the boot is bigger.The rear seats don't fold down to increase luggage space. It gets a five-star crash rating, electronic stability and traction control, brake assist and six airbags, but a space-saver spare.SMALL HATCHVolkswagen Golf BluemotionPrice: $28,990Thirst: 3.8L/100km dieselUnlinkAnnual juice use: $809.40Golf can be played in a range of colours but the most efficient is blue. In VW-speak, it's BlueMotion, the in-house term for those selected models tuned for maximum economy and minimum emissions.The Golf BlueMotion costs $28,990 $1000 more than the Golf 77TDI that it replaced but comes only with a manual gearbox. But you're prepared the shift for yourself in order to save the planet, aren't you?A plethora of fuel-miser tech here  low-rolling resistance tyres,  stop-start system, brake energy recuperation, slippery aerodynamics, tall gear ratios and a gearshift prompt indicator  are added to the already frugal 1.6-litre turbo-diesel. It's also a brisk performer with Golf's usual excellent handling and ride comfort. It works as well in city traffic as it does loping along a country road.COMPACT SUVMazda CX-5 Maxx Sport dieselPrice: from $39,040Thirst: 5.7L/100km dieselAnnual juice use: $1,214.10This slips us well over the grand mark, but torque isn't always cheap especially not 420Nm of it. CX-5s are selling like cold beers at the cricket because they are at least in diesel form very lively, economical and practical wagons.There's no doubt the CX-5's success is due to it enlarging in the appeal of the Mazda3 hatchback. But it's a better vehicle thanks to the SkyActiv tech that covers body, engine, transmission, suspension and platform. The bi-turbo four-cylinder diesel engine has class leading economy via its six-speed auto, despite the added weight of all-wheel-drive. Compact enough for comfort in city traffic, it's also very roomy with excellent rear seat leg and head space. The cabin could be a bit more stylish, but it’s simple and the controls are easy to operate. The rear seats split and fold flat. On the road the diesel version slaughters the petrol model.CITY CARFord Fiesta TDCiPrice: from $21,490Thirst: 4.4L/100km dieselAnnual juice use:  $937.10In any guise the Fiesta is well made, affordable and a driver's delight. As a diesel it's also lean running. Made in Thailand, it's big on value. The 88kW/200Nm make this lightweight city car something of a hot hatch, with steering and handling to match.As with other diesels originally derived from Europe, you have to change gear for yourself, though with the arrival of the next EcoBoost petrol engines next year, Ford's excellent twin clutch automatic could become available. Sedan and hatch are identically priced.Though the five door brings the extra load flexibility of its ilk, the sedan's boot approaches that of the next class up in terms of capacity. It'll swallow a monthly grocery shop all right. The diesel is specially calibrated for maximum fuel efficiency and features a coated particulate filter to keep emissions low. The Zetec spec, at $23,490, is worth the extra spend.
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Skoda Rapid 2014 Review
By Neil Dowling · 19 Jul 2012
It's the Frankenstein's monster of the car industry, cobbled together from the parts bin of its parent yet against all odds, the creature is remarkably captivating.Skoda, through its parent Volkswagen, has created its prettiest car yet that has been formed from pieces of the Polo and the Golf. The name, Rapid, implies performance but it's not the neck-snapping thrill but the name of one of its ancestors.  And as the world's third-oldest carmaker, it has a few of those. Rapid is a clever but user-friendly family sedan that has a huge liftback tailgate to become a versatile family ha uler. It has the biggest interior in its class and the most fuel efficient range. But though clever and pretty and logical, it faces an acceptance battle against a most difficult foe. You.VALUE No prices yet but Skoda Australia's boss Matthew Wiesner indicates the three-engine range will start about $21,000. That suits the market and slots in neatly against rivals. But while the Rapid may appear to lose with its smaller-capacity engines, the fact is these powerplants are very responsive and very economical. Skoda adds a lot of neat features that purists - yes, Peugeot buyers - will adore.These can be as simple as clever stowage systems or the reversible cargo mat. The Rapid is simple, very efficient in everything from its engine to the way the cabin is designed, and very attractive. It's also much, much bigger on the inside than its rivals. Don't expect gadgets - this is on for the pragmatic family.DESIGNFresh, timeless and crisp is how designer Karl Neuhold describes his baby. A nd he doesn't miss the point. This is a pretty car that has an edge on its rivals which, by comparison, look dated. The Rapid is a surprisingly big car that looks small, yet its interior makes no excuses.It has more legroom than the bigger Skoda Octavia and 10mm more headroom while the boot - hidden beneath a long and almost invisible liftback hatch, accepts more boot space. The wheelbase is 84mm longer than the Octavia, too, so delivering the bigger cabin.Exterior styling is perfectly balanced and virtually dateless, though the cabin reflects many Volkswagen ideals. Not a bad thing because it all works but indicates Volkswagen's presence. Clever ideas - most from factory workers contributing to a suggestions box - include a plastic square for scraping ice off the car, pockets in the side of seats for water bottles and mobile phones, a reversible boot floor to carry wet items, rear seatbelt holders and the Euro-demanded safety vest under the driver's seat. Smart.TECHNOLOGYDrivetra in components are replicated from Volkswagen Group and include the more simple, economical and durable components. There is no twincharger engine, for example, and Rapid only gets three transmissions - seven-speed dual-clutch DSG auto and a five and a six-speed manual - attached to a turbo-diesel and 1.2 and 1.4-litre petrol engines.The rear suspension is a torsion beam (rather than the more sophisticated multi-link systems chosen for superior road holding) because Skoda demands simplicity, cos t effectiveness and this design takes up far less room than the alternative. More room saved under the body means more room for occupants and their luggage.  The steering is electric-assist and safety is up to the top of the class. SAFETYThe Rapid is untested but I'm assured it's five-star crash rated. There's six airbags, all the normal electronic aids, corner foglights, a tyre pressure monitor, Isofix child seat/bassinet restraints and a full-size spare wheel.DRIVING Three cars were tested in Slovakia, two which we will get come March and the third a derivative taken for a spin to gauge its ride qualities. The 77TSI is a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol coming here with a five-speed manual gearbox and presents as a sparkling car with excellent roadholding and a good ride.Roads were like Australia - rutted and crumbling bitumen - which produced some noise boom inside the cabin, while 100km/h-plus stints showed some wind noise. The 1.2-litre engine was quiet, responsive and just a joy to pun t hard. The 90TSI is a 90kW 1.4-litre turbo-petrol, attached to a dual-clutch DSG automatic, was more torquey and seamlessly worked with the gearbox.It's as brisk as the 77TSI but not as rev-happy so was quieter and more torquey. It would be better suited to a car carrying more than two people. The turbo-diesel on test was a 77kW 1.6-litre unit that won't be coming to Australia. It was mated to a five-speed manual. Australia gets a 66kW version of this engine.By comparison, the diesel shows mo re harshness and engine noise at low speeds. Yes, it's very torquey and quite brisk, but one of the petrol engines would suit buyers better. Dashboard controls are easy to find and use - the sat-nav is especially good and will be a popular option - while seat comfort is reasonable and visibility good, though Australia may like rear park sensors or a camera. It's too early to tell what spec we will get.VERDICT On looks alone it's a winner. People with more interest in a car that delivers on the  promise of economy, affordability, comfort and safety will be first in line.Skoda Rapid 77TSIPrice: est. $21,000Warranty: 3 years/100,000 kmResale: n/a Service interval: 15,000km/12 monthsSafety rating: n/a Spare: Full-sizeEngine: 1.2-litre 4-cyl turbo-petrol 77kW/175NmTransmission: 6-spd manual, front driveBody: 4.5m (L); 1.7m (w); 1.5m (h)Weight: 1179kg Thirst: 5.4 1/100km; 95RON; 125g/km Co2
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Toyota Land Cruiser 2012 review
By Alistair Kennedy · 18 Jul 2012
There’s something very Australian about the Toyota LandCruiser. Ever since 1949 when the first ever ‘Cruiser was privately imported to work on the Snowy Mountains Scheme this big rugged off-roader has been the yardstick against which all other serious 4WDs have been measured.Our distinctive local conditions make it an ideal market for the big 4WD and a considerable amount of development work and testing is carried out here. Rather than rest on its laurels as the perennial best seller in its category, Toyota gave the LC200 an upgrade in March 2012 with a facelift, extra equipment, improved off-road technology and a new more powerful V8 engine.VALUELandCruiser buyers get plenty of choices. Apart from the two engines there are four equipment levels, in ascending order GX, GXL, VX and Sahara with prices ranging from $77,990 for the diesel-only GX to $118,990 for a diesel Sahara. The new petrol V8 is available in the three higher-specced models and is priced at $5000 below the diesel.As well, Sahara has Multi-Terrain Monitor that uses four wide-angle cameras to display hidden terrain hazards on a 7.1-inch multi-function display. Standard features in all Toyota LandCruiser models include front, side and curtain airbags, stability and traction control, multi-terrain ABS brakes and luggage tie-down hooks. VX and Sahara get the added safety of driver and front passenger knee airbags.Also standard are cruise control, enhanced with the Toyota CRAWL system for heavy terrain driving, tilt and telescopic steering wheel adjustment, and Bluetooth/USB/Auxiliary inputs.LandCruiser GXL adds a rear spoiler, satellite navigation with a new 6.1-inch touch-screen audio system that includes a single CD and USB input and reversing camera. In addition to these features the VX model has the Multi-Terrain System mentioned previously, rain-sensing windscreen wipers, auto-retracting side mirrors and front and rear parking sensors.Standard in the flagship LandCruiser Sahara are rear seat entertainment with a 9-inch LCD display and three wireless headphones, power back door, larger (7.1-inch) LCD screen incorporating an Electro Multi Vision (EMV) system that controls a numbers of features including air conditioning, audio, Bluetooth and satellite navigationToyota LandCruiser is a big vehicle with all the advantages and disadvantages that entail. On the plus side there’s plenty of interior space (head, leg and shoulder room) for up to eight occupants. Six adults and two children can travel in comfort, a pair of adults in the third row seats would not enjoy the trip.DESIGNThe visual changes to the 2012 LandCruiser include new grille treatments that vary according to model levels and include new chrome surrounds, revised bumpers, new colour and interior trim choices.Even with all seats in place there’s a reasonable amount of storage space. This can be expanded by folding the third row seats up against the side of the luggage area.There’s plenty of in-cabin stowage space including a large, practical centre-console box, large door pockets that can take large drinks bottles and a number of other apertures for smaller items.TECHNOLOGYThe new V8 petrol engine drops from 4.7 to 4.6 litres, but as we’ve come to expect from the new generation of engines across the automotive industry, not only does it generate more power (up by 12.9 per cent to 228 kW) and torque (increased by 7.1 per cent to 439 Nm at 3500rpm), but there’s also a reduction in fuel consumption (by 6.2 per cent to 13.6 litres per 100km) and CO2 emissions (down by 8.2 per cent to 313 grams per kilometre).Adding to the attraction of the new V8 engine it now gets the impressive six-speed automatic gearbox that so impressed us when we drove the 4.5-litre twin-turbo diesel LandCruiser. The previous V8 petrol was mated to an older five-speed ‘box.Although Toyota has its LandCruiser 70 Series for serious off-road conditions the more urbane 200 Series still ventures off road more often than anything else in its class, so off-road technology in the upgraded model sees the introduction of a multi-terrain anti-skid braking system that detects and automatically adapts to off-road conditions. The existing vehicle stability control and active traction control are assisted by this new ABS system.Adding to the LC200’s already excellent off-road credentials the VX and Sahara now both have Multi-Terrain Select that regulates wheel-spin in tough off-road conditions with five driver-selectable modes: Rock, Rock and Dirt, Mogul, Loose Rock, Mud and Sand.DRIVINGIts handling is softer than the driving enthusiast would prefer but it’s a ‘Cruiser by name and a cruiser by nature and it does what it was designed to do extremely well. That includes NVH (Noise, Vibration and Harshness) suppression and towing, where it has a braked trailer capacity of 3500 kilograms.Long distance cruising is further enhanced by the inclusion of twin fuel tanks with a capacity of 138 litres (93 litres in the main tank and 45 litres in the back up tank).The downside to such a large vehicle is that it can be difficult to get into and out of for the less agile and it can be a handful to manoeuvre around the city and suburbs.
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BMW 3 Series 328i 2012 Review
By Chris Riley · 10 Jul 2012
Not everyone wants to drive a big, boofy SUV. Small wagons are making a bit of a comeback, especially sporty Euros with offerings from all of the big three - Audi, Benz and BMW.BMW's new 3 Series Touring wagon is one of the tastier morsels to choose from, due to arrive early next year in Oz. We got a taste of things to come this week in Munich.DESIGNThe 3 Series is still very much the jewel in the crown, by far and away the German car maker's biggest selling model. The wagon, although it doesn't account for a huge number of sales (less than 10 percent of 3 Series), still makes a worthwhile contribution. The look this time around is long and low with sweeping lines that convey a sense of athleticism. It's identical to the sedan from the centre pillar forward, with a wider stance and lower front 'kidney' grille designed to accentuate its sporty appearance. At the rear BMW's characteristic L-shaped tail lights with integrated LEDs serve to emphasise the car's wider, stronger haunches - 37mm wider at the front and 48mm at the rear.LARGERThe fifth generation Touring is almost as long as a Commodore and 97mm longer than before, with a 50mm longer wheelbase that translates to 17mm of extra legroom in the back and more space for luggage behind the seat.In fact, with an extra 35 litres of luggage space, BMW claims the car now offers a greater capacity than any of its rivals - with room for three golf bags. Through the use of high strength steel the engineers have been able to reduce the weight of the car by 40kg.THE BOOTThere's 495 litres of space with the rear seat upright and 1500 litres with it folded, with a power operated tailgate that has a window that opens separately for quick access. Wave your foot under the rear of the car and the tailgate opens magically. The rear seat splits and folds in a 40:20:40 ratio that means you can fit several pairs of skis down the centre of the car and still have room for four adults.A partition net and luggage compartment cover are provided that stow neatly under the floor when not in use. The floor hatch is reversible for carrying dirty items. In the front, larger stowage bins in the doors now accommodate 1-litre drink bottles.THE RANGEWe're getting three models: the 328i, 320i and 318d. The 323i is no more and the 335i performance model has been dropped due to lack of demand. The first two are powered by 2.0-litre petrol engines and the third by a 2.0-litre diesel. Of the trio we got to sample only the top of the range 328i.UNDER THE BONNETThe twin turbo 2.0-litre four cylinder direct injection petrol engine produces 180kW of power and 350Nm of torque. It will be hooked up to an eight-speed automatic as standard in Aussie cars. A sports auto with gear change paddles and more dynamic shift characteristics is also available. The dash from 0-100km/h takes 6.0 seconds flat, with a top speed that is electronically limited to 250km/h. The 320i meanwhile produces 135kW/270Nm and the 118d 105kW/320Nm.FUEL CONSUMPTIONThe 328i is rated at 6.8 litres/100km and produces 159g/km of CO2. During the launch this week we returned a figure of 9.4 litres/100km over a distance of 230 easy kilometres. All models will be fitted with stop/start and other fuel saving tech, as well as a drive control with Eco Pro mode to maximise economy.BMW claims the latter can reduce fuel consumption by up to 20 percent. Stop/start as its name suggests shuts down the engine at traffic lights and in other situations to save fuel, automatically restarting the engine when the driver presses the throttle.ON THE ROADI have to confess it's been a while since I last drove a Beemer and I had forgotten just how sporty they always manage to make them. The transition from six to four cylinder engines in the name of better fuel economy has been seamless, with the 2.0-litre engine in the 328i punching well above its weight.The chunky steering wheel feels snug in the hands and performance is strong, with plenty in reserve for overtaking. It even sounds the part under full throttle which is so important. The eight speed auto is excellent and responds quickly to throttle input, with the option to change gears manually, via the shifter or the steering wheel mounted paddles.Whether you're in auto or manual mode, the effect is satisfying, especially under hard acceleration when the gears snap home. In fact, we'd go as far as saying it's more responsive  than the tranny in the Porsche wagon that we drove the other day. Whether barreling down the autobahn or threading our way through the many villages that dot the countryside, the car remained unfazed.INSIDETypical BMW. The cockpit has a clear driver focus and the computer screen is bigger than ever. There's even a cradle for your iPod in the centre stowage bin, along with AUX and USB ports. It's available in Modern, Luxury and Sport trim lines, as well as with the M Sport package with lowered suspension. And, of course, there's plenty of options.SAFETYIt hasn't been tested yet, but the sedan gets a full five stars and the wagon is expected to achieve the same rating. Front and side airbags are fitted, plus head airbags for front and rear along with a full suite of safety systems.VERDICTMuch more stylish. The previous model looks positively small in comparison, although this one is physically only slightly larger. Like we said not everyone wants to drive a rolly-polly SUV, particularly if you're just driving around town. In this context a wagon makes more sense as it offers the same kind of utility but in a more refined and more engaging package. Your call. Pricing and specifications for the new wagon will be revealed closer to launch in February-March.BMW 3 Series Touring wagon 328iPrice: from $66,900Engine: 2.0-litre 4-cylinder direct injection petrol, 180kW/350NmTransmission: 8-speed automaticThirst: 6.8 litres/100km, 159g/km CO2 emissions 
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Holden Commodore Omega VE II Sportswagon LPG 2012 review
By Ewan Kennedy · 09 Jul 2012
Car companies are all doing their best to make cars more fuel efficient, at the same time listening to drivers’ insistence that they don’t want to compromise on performance. One way of doing so is to provide cars that run on LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas). We have just spent a week in Holden's 3.6-litre LPG Sportwagon.Ford Australia has been very strong in the LPG market for years, chiefly due to Falcon’s popularity with taxi fleets, and totally updated its LPG system last year. Holden has now introduced an all-new system for the Commodore in an attempt to catch up with its arch rival.At the time of writing the cost of LPG at our base on the Gold Coast was 65.6 cents a litre, compared to 91 octane unleaded petrol at $1.359 and diesel at $1.429. In our week of mainly highway travel we chalked up 543 kilometres using 67.8 litres of LPG. On the above pricing the cost of refuelling the big Holden wagon was $44.73.Although Holden has measured a combined fuel consumption of 11.8 litres/100 km from the LPG dedicated Sportwagon with all our highway running we used around 9.0 litres/100 km. However, around town the consumption leapt and we were often in the 12 to 14 litre range.Basing calculations on Holden’s combined fuel consumption figure of 11.8 litres/100 km and travelling 20,000 km a year the LPG Sportwagon would cost $1118 a year to refuel. By comparison the 3.0-litre ULP Sportwagon would set you back about $3000.There's an added cost of $2500 to buy the LPG dedicated wagon. The LPG wagon costs $44,490 while the petrol Omega has a recommended retail price of $41,990. The good news for private buyers is that the federal government offers a $2000 rebate as part of its clean energy policy. If you’re entitled to that the LPG Sportwagon starts to make a lot of financial sense.Previously Holden offered a dual-fuel LPG/petrol model. This new Commodore runs only on LPG so there are far fewer compromises than were necessary in the engine designed to run on two different fuels.The 3.6-litre Holden LPG V6 uses fuel injectors, fuel rail and LPG fuel filter. It has different spark advance and hardened valves and valve seats. The cylinder heads and manifold are different to those on the petrol V6. The LPG runs a very high compression ratio of 12.2:1. The bottom line is 180 kW of power and 320 Nm of torque, both figures are slightly better than those of the dual-fuel model.The new system uses vapour rather than liquid injection with the liquid gas vaporised before induction into the engine. This is quite different to the Ford Falcon LPG, which uses an injection system that sprays liquid gas into the engine.The engine is now linked to a six-speed automatic, replacing the old four-speed. This helps reduce fuel consumption.A cylinder of LPG will not get you as far as a tank of petrol so Holden fitted an 84-litre cylinder that gives a theoretical range of up to 700 kilometres in easy paced country driving. The LPG cylinder is made of high strength, multi-celled, aircraft grade extruded aluminium with additional protection plates strategically placed for extra safety.A big downside of using a pressure gas cylinder is its awkward size and shape that takes up boot space. The Sportwagon we borrowed had a full size spare that ate somewhat into the boot space. It was placed upright against the driver’s side of the car. There are other options including a tyre inflation kit that takes up no boot space, and a space saver wheel. Cargo space is 895 litres with seats up and 2000 litres with seats folded.
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Citroen DS4 2012 Review
By Chris Riley · 03 Jul 2012
We turn the spotlight on the car world's newest and brightest stars as we ask the questions to which you want the answers. But there's only one question that really needs answering  would you buy one?What is it?The second in Citroen's line of gorgeous sporty models. Looks like a coupe but actually has two "part-time" rear doors with fixed window glass.How much?$39,900 and that's the problem. For the same money you could have a WRX or Golf GTI or for a bit more Renault's superb Megane RS250 or Mini Cooper S for a bit more again.What are competitors?Any of the the aforementioned.What's under the bonnet?A 1.6-litre turbocharged four cylinder petrol engine. In fact, it's the same turbo that powers the Cooper S, with 147kW of power and 275Nm of torque.How does it go?Six-speed manual only. If you want an auto then you're stuck with the 115kW engine instead. Strong mid-range performance, but it's a little slow off the line, with 0-100km/h taking 8.5 seconds.Is it economical?Takes more expensive 95RON premium unleaded. Rated at 6.4 litres/100km, we were getting 7.7 litres after about 300km.Is it green?Yes. Scores 4.5 out of 5 stars from the Govt's Green Vehicle Guide, with CO2 emissions of 149g/km.Is it safe?No rating from Australian NCAP but Euro NCAP gives it five stars. Blind spot warning is standard.Is it comfortable?The leather-trimmed sports seats are a work of art. They're heated and have an in-built massage function. Rear legroom is tight and the interior a little noisy for our liking, depending on road surface.What's it like to drive?Fun and fairly lively on boost, with gearing which keeps it in the power zone. Positively surreal at night with its huge windscreen and instruments blacked (there's a button to do this). Doesn't cope well with broken surfaces. Front wheels scrabble for traction and some backlash through the steering wheel.Is it value for money?Yes. Nothing to spend. Has some unique touches too, like the huge windscreen, the ability to change the colour of the dials and instruments and the obvious attention to detail not to mention themassage seats. There's plenty of room in the boot too, although it hides a puncture repair kit instead of a spare.Would we buy one?It's appealing, that's for sure. Looks terrific, goes hard and has some extremely cool features. The 19 inch wheels are a work of art  but ultimately the DS4 falls short of the mark if measured purely in terms of performance ie. you can do better for less.Citroen DS4 D-SportPrice: from $39,990Engine: 1.6-litre 4-cyl turbocharged 147kW/275NmTransmission: 6-speed manual, FWDThirst: 6.5L/100km; 149g Co2 per km
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