Wagon Reviews

ANY car that lobs with a Superb badge on the boot had better be good.  Using a name like that is an invitation to failure, especially in Australia, or at least a severe ribbing if it doesn't come up to snuff.Skoda has a right to the Superb badge because it's part of the company's history, but the Czech brand still has to make a serious impact in Australia and superb is a word that doesn't really fit.  But the Superb shows what Skoda can do and moves the Australian story on from the Octavia that has done most of the heavy lifting since it was added to the local Volkswagen Group family.It's a lot like the Volkswagen Passat, at least in size and mechanical package, but the hard workers in the Czech Republic have managed to give it a unique look, a unique personality and unique value.  So the Superb is bigger inside than a Passat and that latest model, the Wagon, has pricing from $38,990."It's an excellent package and we've positioned it well on value. It will help to build the brand," says Matthew Wiesner, general manager of Skoda Australia.  "It's the right opportunity. We're taking advantage of the global model activity that we can plug into."The Superb Wagon range is predictable and solid, with both petrol and diesel engines, front and all-wheel drive, and a range of specifications up to the popular Elegance pack that includes everything from electric leather seats and alloy wheels to seven airbags and ABS brakes across the range.ValueValue is the foundation for the whole Skoda brand, which sits at the bottom of the Volkswagen Group in Australia below VW itself and then Audi.  The test car is a turbodiesel with Elegance, the second-top model - below the V6 all-wheel drive - with a pricetag of $49,990.It comes massively loaded and yet still with a pricetag that undercuts its large-car rivals in Australia including the Commodore Sportwagon and a bunch of mid-range SUVs.  The 118 engine is the most popular of Volkswagen's diesels in Australia and it also gets an excellent DSG manu-matic gearbox, with everything inside from satnav to a really punchy sound system."Diesel is the most popular drivetrain in the Superb, and probably 80 per cent of sales. It's the Elegance specification that is most popular," says Wiesner.  "We're seeing growth month-on-month through that pricing. And a reasonable takeup of the four-wheel drive V6."But, despite Xenon headlamps and the rest, the car is not available with a rear-view camera. There is parking sonar but it's a major failing.  "It's under development," says Wiesner, without promising an introduction date.TechnologySkoda takes everything out of the Volkswagen parts bin, which means good stuff.  The engine has 125kW and 350 Nm, there are six gears in the DSG, fully-independent suspension, power steering and the other stuff you expect at this size and price.The actual body is developed from the same platform used for a huge range of Volkwagen Group products from the Golf, but Skoda has managed to even trump the Passat with a huge cabin and a good looking shape that's also practical.  Skoda says the interior dimensions are similar to the Sportwagon and now-dead Falcon wagon, but with a much deeper load space in the rear.DesignThe Superb Wagon is a bulky car but its proportions are well disguised and it has an upmarket look and feel.  That means fake wood in the dash, lots of chrome on the nose, leather inside and soft-touch plastics in all the key areas.The tail end is an absolute treat, with everything from a high-lift tailgate with a rubber pulldown strap to a range of plug-in dividers which sit in tracking in the luggage space. They seem familiar from the Audi Q7.The seats are well shaped, the dash design is simple and effective - with green highlights, where VW uses blue - and there is huge space in the back seat. The fold-down luggage space is made bigger and flatter with a system which folds the back squab up and forward so the backrest can tuck right away.It's a big surprise to find a fold-out umbrella inside the left-rear door - something we though was reserved for Rollls-Royce - and there is even a nifty pull-out torch inside the tail.  But the cupholders are crappy, too small and not enough of them.SafetyThe Superb ticks all the boxes, from seven airbags - including one for the driver's knee - to ESP and brake assist. It's a five-star effort.  It also has standard tyre pressure monitoring, three-point belts for all occupants, and an alarm with interior monitoring.  But it should come with a rear-view camera.DrivingThe Superb wagon is a very big car, ideal for family work and a serious alternative to a wide range of SUVs.  Basically, it's the car a lot of Australians need - not the one they want.Even so, the cabin space is fantastically large and flexible, with giant legroom front and back, and that brilliant luggage space in the tail.It's a very quiet car that gets along more than well enough with the turbodiesel engine and DSG gearbox. There is good push for overtaking and it's light on fuel.At first the Superb feels a little soft and floppy. And the front suspension definitely wobbles and crashes through bumps a bit, but the tail is solidly planted and the brakes are great.It's not a sport car but it's much more convincing and enjoyable than most SUVs, particularly when you have the family and a load on board.  It's one of the surprisingly memorable cars of 2010 and brilliant value. It makes the Passat look underdone and puts the Sportwagon into a slot for people who really want an SS sedan but have to have a wagon for family work.SHE SAYS - Alison WardI barely know what a Skoda is when the Superb arrives but I'm immediately impressed.  We have the automatic 7-speed DSG (whatever that means) diesel full leather trim and a stylish interior. Being a part of the VW network obviously has its advantages.  You can see their contribution in the dash and the seamless gearchanges and handling. This car is a benchmark car for Aussie drivers, especially for traveling families.  Its base model includes a mile of extras others car brands want to charge for and the test car is brilliant value.  There is loads of room in the boot with plenty of tricky hooks, lights and restraints for your belongings.The back seat has so much space we can wind the front seats all the way back and not worry about the youngster in the child seat. But I think the cupholder situation is a bit dire.  If there is a better family car in Australia for $50,000 then I haven't driven it.VerdictIt's not quite superb, but the new Skoda flagship is very, very good and brilliant value.

ANY car that lobs with a Superb badge on the boot had better be good.  Using a name like that is an invitation to failure, especially in Australia, or at least a severe ribbing if it doesn't come up to snuff.Skoda has a right to the Superb badge because it's part of the company's history, but the Czech brand still has to make a serious impact in Australia and superb is a word that doesn't really fit.  But the Superb shows what Skoda can do and moves the Australian story on from the Octavia that has done most of the heavy lifting since it was added to the local Volkswagen Group family.It's a lot like the Volkswagen Passat, at least in size and mechanical package, but the hard workers in the Czech Republic have managed to give it a unique look, a unique personality and unique value.  So the Superb is bigger inside than a Passat and that latest model, the Wagon, has pricing from $38,990."It's an excellent package and we've positioned it well on value. It will help to build the brand," says Matthew Wiesner, general manager of Skoda Australia.  "It's the right opportunity. We're taking advantage of the global model activity that we can plug into."The Superb Wagon range is predictable and solid, with both petrol and diesel engines, front and all-wheel drive, and a range of specifications up to the popular Elegance pack that includes everything from electric leather seats and alloy wheels to seven airbags and ABS brakes across the range.ValueValue is the foundation for the whole Skoda brand, which sits at the bottom of the Volkswagen Group in Australia below VW itself and then Audi.  The test car is a turbodiesel with Elegance, the second-top model - below the V6 all-wheel drive - with a pricetag of $49,990.It comes massively loaded and yet still with a pricetag that undercuts its large-car rivals in Australia including the Commodore Sportwagon and a bunch of mid-range SUVs.  The 118 engine is the most popular of Volkswagen's diesels in Australia and it also gets an excellent DSG manu-matic gearbox, with everything inside from satnav to a really punchy sound system."Diesel is the most popular drivetrain in the Superb, and probably 80 per cent of sales. It's the Elegance specification that is most popular," says Wiesner.  "We're seeing growth month-on-month through that pricing. And a reasonable takeup of the four-wheel drive V6."But, despite Xenon headlamps and the rest, the car is not available with a rear-view camera. There is parking sonar but it's a major failing.  "It's under development," says Wiesner, without promising an introduction date.TechnologySkoda takes everything out of the Volkswagen parts bin, which means good stuff.  The engine has 125kW and 350 Nm, there are six gears in the DSG, fully-independent suspension, power steering and the other stuff you expect at this size and price.The actual body is developed from the same platform used for a huge range of Volkwagen Group products from the Golf, but Skoda has managed to even trump the Passat with a huge cabin and a good looking shape that's also practical.  Skoda says the interior dimensions are similar to the Sportwagon and now-dead Falcon wagon, but with a much deeper load space in the rear.DesignThe Superb Wagon is a bulky car but its proportions are well disguised and it has an upmarket look and feel.  That means fake wood in the dash, lots of chrome on the nose, leather inside and soft-touch plastics in all the key areas.The tail end is an absolute treat, with everything from a high-lift tailgate with a rubber pulldown strap to a range of plug-in dividers which sit in tracking in the luggage space. They seem familiar from the Audi Q7.The seats are well shaped, the dash design is simple and effective - with green highlights, where VW uses blue - and there is huge space in the back seat. The fold-down luggage space is made bigger and flatter with a system which folds the back squab up and forward so the backrest can tuck right away.It's a big surprise to find a fold-out umbrella inside the left-rear door - something we though was reserved for Rollls-Royce - and there is even a nifty pull-out torch inside the tail.  But the cupholders are crappy, too small and not enough of them.SafetyThe Superb ticks all the boxes, from seven airbags - including one for the driver's knee - to ESP and brake assist. It's a five-star effort.  It also has standard tyre pressure monitoring, three-point belts for all occupants, and an alarm with interior monitoring.  But it should come with a rear-view camera.DrivingThe Superb wagon is a very big car, ideal for family work and a serious alternative to a wide range of SUVs.  Basically, it's the car a lot of Australians need - not the one they want.Even so, the cabin space is fantastically large and flexible, with giant legroom front and back, and that brilliant luggage space in the tail.It's a very quiet car that gets along more than well enough with the turbodiesel engine and DSG gearbox. There is good push for overtaking and it's light on fuel.At first the Superb feels a little soft and floppy. And the front suspension definitely wobbles and crashes through bumps a bit, but the tail is solidly planted and the brakes are great.It's not a sport car but it's much more convincing and enjoyable than most SUVs, particularly when you have the family and a load on board.  It's one of the surprisingly memorable cars of 2010 and brilliant value. It makes the Passat look underdone and puts the Sportwagon into a slot for people who really want an SS sedan but have to have a wagon for family work.SHE SAYS - Alison WardI barely know what a Skoda is when the Superb arrives but I'm immediately impressed.  We have the automatic 7-speed DSG (whatever that means) diesel full leather trim and a stylish interior. Being a part of the VW network obviously has its advantages.  You can see their contribution in the dash and the seamless gearchanges and handling. This car is a benchmark car for Aussie drivers, especially for traveling families.  Its base model includes a mile of extras others car brands want to charge for and the test car is brilliant value.  There is loads of room in the boot with plenty of tricky hooks, lights and restraints for your belongings.The back seat has so much space we can wind the front seats all the way back and not worry about the youngster in the child seat. But I think the cupholder situation is a bit dire.  If there is a better family car in Australia for $50,000 then I haven't driven it.VerdictIt's not quite superb, but the new Skoda flagship is very, very good and brilliant value.

It took just 1700km of local test driving for Kia to decide Australia wouldn’t like the new Sportage’s suspension. And to set about finding a different one.  When they did, it already had an Australian flavour.Having judged the suspension of the test Sportage sent out here in March as unsuitable, the Aussie Kia team set off with their ideal set-up on paper to match it with the components available in other markets.After some benchmarking, they settled on the UK suspension set-up – to which Kia Australia had originally contributed in the planning stages.  The steering was given similar attention with a calibration specifically our market.And Kia believes those local touches will be key for the popularity of the new Sportage, which will face strong competition in the growing compact SUV category.Pricing and variantsKia expects to sell about 300 per month, and to try and ensure there’s something for everybody, the Sportage has both two-wheel and all-drive versions, with three engines and two transmissions.  Prices start from $25,990 for the Si 2WD 2.0-litre with five-speed manual transmission ($2000 extra for auto).The mid-spec SLi AWD auto-only versions are $31,990 for the 2.4-litre petrol and $35,990 for the 2.0-litre turbo-diesel, while Platinum spec adds extra equipment to each of those for an extra $3000.Base models get a solid list of features including MP3-compatible six-speaker audio system, 17-in alloy wheels and foglights, with safety covered by six airbags, anti-lock disc brakes with brake assist and force distribution to help out in extreme situations, stability and traction control, plus hill-start assist and downhill brake control that slows the Sportage to 8km/h on steep slopes.Mid-spec adds extras like a rear-view camera, auto headlights, dual-zone climate control for the airconditioning and a swag of cosmetic and trim upgrades.  The Platinum bags you 18-in alloys, rear parking sensors, leather upholstery – ventilated on the driver’s seat – and daytime running lights among its extras.There’ll be some latecomers to the equipment list, with Bluetooth and the reach-adjustable electronic steering arriving in November, with Kia choosing to launch now rather than wait for them.While it’s based on the same platform as the Hyundai ix35, the styling is more conservative, with Kia saying their focus clinics voiced unanimous support for the Sportage styling over the ix35’s more detailed creasing and character lines.  It retains the sharply sloping windscreen and A-pillars of the Kia Kue concept show car, with a high belt-line pushing the coupe image.It looks lower than it actually is – and is already lower, wider and longer than the previous Sportage (by 60mm, 15mm and 90mm respectively) – with black protective cladding adding off-road hints and slimming the side profile.With that, there’s ample legroom front and rear, but headroom is compromised by that sleeker roofline, although it probably contributes to the more slippery body (and lighter weight) that help keep fuel consumption respectable.  But you can still carry 740 litres of luggage, stacking that up to 1547 litres with the rear seats folded.The base model’s 2.0-litre petrol engine develops 122kW of power and 197Nm of torque, getting to 100km/h in an official time of 10.4 seconds with the manual transmission and 10.6 seconds with the auto.  The 2.4-litre gives you 130kW and 227Nm, with slightly better acceleration showing in the 0-100km/h time of 10 seconds and the faster top speed of 188km/h.The diesel is the 2.0-litre version of Kia’s ‘R’ unit, offering 135kW and 393Nm, with the extra urge getting you to 100km/h in 9.6 seconds.  The AWD versions get an on-demand system with slip detection that can send up to 40 per cent of torque to the rear axle as needed, with a lockHowever long Kia spent tweaking the Sportage steering for Australia, it’s been time well spent.  And it took just a couple of minutes behind the wheel of the AWD for the better feel and response to prove itself. It’s a big move forward for Kia, but they forecast it’s just the start of more local specification in their cars.And it benefits from being partnered with the quite decent suspension - McPherson strut front, multi-link rear -- with the UK tuning.  The 2.4-litre petrol engine we briefly tested struggled slightly on steep slopes but was otherwise sprightly, although more so with the transmission slotted into faux manual mode.The advantage of more torque meant the diesel performed better, but the base model 2.0-litre petrol made harder work of most driving and is better suited to those who primarily want a city car.It also seemed to be noisier than its higher-spec siblings – suggesting that the levels of damping may be different in the variants. But otherwise, the cabins were quiet apart from wind rush around the wipers and wing mirrors.The mirror wind noise is due to their large size, but you’ll be grateful for that when you try reverse parking, with the elegant letter-box of a rear windscreen and the massive rear pillars making visibility a chore unless you’re up to the reversing camera spec.  Another annoying factor was the steering column being tilt but not reach, but Kia says this will be added when the electronic steering arrives in November.Hard plastics are here and there, but otherwise the cabin fit-out is sensible and pleasant – and we preferred the sporty black tricot upholstery over the slippery leather. The fabric seemed to fit better with the Sportage’s overall personality: sensible, comfortable and practical.

The traditional prestige players are priced beyond the means of most of us -- but the qualitative difference separating the business class and the topline versions of the rest has diminished to the point of non-existence. All right, you'll look better in the car park comparison stakes if you drive the exxier choices listed here, but you're by no means always driving the better car.WAGONSOne's a classy Volkswagen Group sport wagon with a direct injection turbo petrol engine with the option of a cutting-edge transmission. And so's the Audi.The Czech-made Skoda is essentially a bigger in the body, more discreet, better riding and cheaper VW Golf GTI, the car that more than any other blurs the distinction between the prestige pack and the rest.The handling-enhancing electronic diff of the new GTI is on its way to the RS, so while the twin clutch DSG adds $2300, the generous standard kit (including tasty 18s) and skinny options list means there's not a lot more to spend. Rare is the Audi of which that can be said.The output of the front-wheel-drive Avant's turbo four is similar (132kW/320Nm plays Skoda's 147kW/280Nm), limited for its continuously variable transmission. Quattro and the full-fat engine sets you back another $13,000 -- and the premium is already just a bit silly.SEDANSOne's a perfectly balanced, rear-wheel-drive, inline petrol six with great steering and a six-speed ZF automatic. And so's the BMW.All right, we're comparing a big tarted-up Aussie taxi with a thoroughbred mid-size Bavarian sport sedan here, but what of it? Priced $33K south, this Falcon is probably the best-value car in the country on a metal for money basis and that price difference buys a lot of basic unleaded petrol for that 4.0-litre atmo six with its whacking 195kW/391Nm. If there's a quickish car that rides as well as the Falcon, it's known not unto us.As to the Bimmer, well, you'd go there if you could, even if the peerless handling comes at the price of run-flat tyres and an options list to make your eyes bleed.DIESELSOne's a European-built front-wheel-drive with a sophisticated turbodiesel engine and bank-vault build quality. And so's the Volvo. Now the first prestige Euro to be owned by a Chinese company, Volvo did rather well out of its association with Ford (certainly better than Saab did out of GM). But the years of proximity invite comparison.Long the choice of UK sales reps and families, the Mondeo's marriage of the diesel with an auto and capable dynamics give it a comfortable niche position at this level of the market. The Titanium edition gives the long Ford the trim and kit to compare with the premium brigade.Despite its more potent five-cylinder engine and Swedish aura of invulnerability, we just can't see the extra spend in the stolid Volvo.SUVSOne's the best-driving compact SUV and... uh, that's the BMW, actually. We've often said that if BMW made front-wheel-drive family cars they'd handle like Mazdas, so the two brands' respective four-wheel-drives should logically be even closer.Not quite, but not to the extent that the X3 is nigh-on $20K better. The X3's only real advantage in Australia's restricted conditions is its standard six-speed auto. Stop us if you're tired of hearing this, Mazda doesn't yet have a slusher for its diesel.While the Mazda's engine is slightly bigger and more potent than the BMW diesel, it has to haul a nearly two-tonne kerb weight. The X3 is 250kg lighter but, within, it's also the most dated Bimmer.How much is that badge worth, again?

It's all very well presenting punters with a niche model - vive la difference and all that - "rationale'" French brands more or less rely on in this market. The problem for this particular Peugeot is that its "niche'' is getting very crowded.The 207 is an amiable, if not especially engaging, hatchback. With its enhanced size and "offroad-inspired'' grey protective panels, the latest variant - the Outdoor HDI Touring - is a very useful diesel hatch/wagon.It's pretty neat in a Gallic way: distinctive design, full-length sunroof and 438 litres for luggage (1433 back seats down), more than ample for a basket of baguettes and several crates of Cotes du Rhone.DRIVETRAINThe Outdoor's 1.6-litre turbo diesel is a willing 80kW/240Nm but throbbing unit matched to the non-choice of a five-speed manual, a match that would be happier still were its action not so typically Pugly: rubbery and long-throw. There's a four-speed automatic petrol alternative, but it's diesel-addicted, manual-able Euro families for whom this bebe was envisaged. With 5L/100km possible in combined conditions, that's no surprise.DRIVINGThere's little relief in ride and road noise, though handling (via numb steering) is adequate for the type and likely owner's intent. They may be less taken with the tinny sound of its doors shutting, an underwhelming interior (no steering-wheel buttons is a bit '90s in a $30K car) and an ambience the Koreans are surpassing.Yes, the Koreans. At least two are crowding the Outdoor: the closely related Hyundai i30 CW and Kia Soul - both with 1.6-litre diesels, as it happens. And knocking with Germanic assertiveness on the door (even though it's made in Mexico) is Volkswagen's Golf wagon, an expanded version of the class-leading hatch.As singularly, and in some respects endearingly, French as the Pug is (for the faithful, that's the point) these three competitors offer automated transmissions: an old-world but effective four-speed torque converter auto in the case of the Koreans, a state-of-the-art, seven-speed, twin-clutch DSG in the VeeWee.I came to like this 207 over the course of our 400km acquaintance, thought it a decent device for the urban family, but was always conscious that its niche is getting bigger and its competitors cleverer.Outdoor, mini-people mover, urban utility vehicle, soft-roader, compact wagon - call 'em what you will, there's a whole segment derived from hatchbacks. All offer elegant solutions for the urbanite who wants the hatch's fuel economy and ease of manoeuvre, but who needs a little more - whether it's extra seats, a more versatile load space, all-wheel drive or an elevated driving position.Even Mini is getting in on the enhanced-hatch thing with its first four-door version, the Countryman, due 2011.For now, there are hatch-derived people-movers (Citroen C4 Picasso, Renault Grand Scenic, Volkswagen Caddy Life); wagons (Golf, the 207 Outdoor, Hyundai i30 CW, the outgoing Skoda Roomster); shopping trolleys that resemble SUVs (Kia Soul, Toyota Rukus); and an SUV that looks a bit like a wagon (BMW X1).RIVALSKia Soul: from $20,990Hyundai i30cw: from $21,890VW Golf wagon: from $26,990Toyota Rukus: from $27,490VW Caddy Life: $35,990Renault Grand Scenic: $41,990BMW X1: from $45,700Citroen C4 Picasso: $45,990PEUGEOT 207 TOURING OUTDOOR HDiPrice: from $27,990Safety: six airbags, ESP, anti-skid brakesEngines: 1.6-litre petrol or turbodieselOutput: 88kw/160Nm (petrol), 80kw/240Nm (diesel)Economy: 6.4/7.3L/100kmEmissions: 130/173g/km

Holden's VE Sportwagon was an attempt to breathe new life into the station wagon just when it seemed dead and all but buried.Wagons were once the staple of families all over the country, they were the practical all-rounder for the family that needed to carry extra gear on their travels, but in recent times they have fallen out of favour as the SUV has become the family favourite. The SUV has become something the wagon could never be, an aspirational vehicle with the practicality of the traditional wagon.The wagon's cause wasn't aided by the rather grey image it acquired when it became the choice of the country's sales reps. If it was to sell, the wagon had to offer more than mere practicality, and the Sportwagon was Holden's attempt to make the wagon cool again by giving it a stylish makeover.MODEL WATCHBefore the Sportwagon Holden wagons boasted a longer wheelbase than the regular Holden sedans, but its new-age wagon differed in that it was based on the same wheelbase as the sedan. It was a sign of the tough times that the only way Holden could justify a wagon program was to build it on the sedan platform. But it was an important addition to the Commodore range that expanded its appeal to a broader market.Gone was the traditional boxy style that has been employed on wagons since the year dot, in its place was a rather swoopy shape that gave the Sportwagon a sportiness never before seen in the class.The shortened body and sweeping roofline did, however, cut into the available rear space, which was down almost 40 per cent on the VZ wagon it replaced. That's with the rear seats in their normal position... when folded flat, the rear load space was still 30 per cent less than the old wagon. A 60:40 split/fold rear seat provided flexibility in the rear, allowing objects of various shapes and sizes to be accommodated.Under the swoopy new skin lay the same mechanical package as that of the VE sedan. There was the choice of two versions of the 3.6-litre Alloytec V6, one that delivered 180 kW and 330 Nm in base form, and one that boasted 195 kW and 340 Nm in sporty SV6 guise.There was also the 6.0-litre V8 in the SS and SS-V that peaked at 270 kW and 530 Nm. The base V6 was only available with a four-speed auto, the SV6 came with a five-speed auto, while the V8 models were available in standard form with a six-speed auto with the option of a six-speed manual. The suspension was largely carried over from the sedan, with some alterations to enable it to carry a heavier load in the rear.Apart from the rear seat the interior was familiar VE, neat and tidy with all controls logically laid out and readily at hand. The Sportwagon range was quite extensive, with the base Omega, Berlina, luxury Calais and Calais V, and sporty SV6, SS and SS-V.IN THE SHOPOverall there are few concerns with the VE; while owners have reported the odd issue there is nothing that appears widespread. The engine, gearbox, diff and suspension all seem rugged and   generally reliable.The one issue that some owners have raised is the rather large A-pillars that can obstruct the driver's view when turning. The size is largely determined by the airbags the car boasts, but it is something potential owners should note and check to see if it affects them. The degree of obstruction can be affected by the seating position, so if it does appear to restrict your vision, move the seat to see if it can be reduced.It should be noted that the Sportwagon carries a space-saver spare. Even though the Sportwagon has only been on sale for a year or two it's wise to check for a service record to make sure the oil has been changed.IN A CRASHANCAP gave the Sportwagon a five-star rating; the highest rating it can give a car. It featured a comprehensive safety arsenal including front and side airbags, anti-skid brakes, brakeforce distribution with brake assist, as well as traction and stability control systems.AT THE PUMPHolden claimed the Sportwagon fuel consumption ranged between 11.1 L/100 km for the Omega V6 to 14.4 L/100 km for the V6 SS manual.OWNER'S SAYRay Davo has driven a Sportwagon supplied by his employer for the past two years, doing 20 to 800 km daily, usually solo with a variable load, and he says he would be happy to hand it back. His main criticism is the poor visibility caused by the A-pillar, which he says is a safety issue, but he's also critical of the location of the handbrake, the seating, the fuel consumption, and says the cruise won't hold its settings, the handling is upset when it's carrying a load in the back, it tracks poorly on country roads, the transmission sometimes appears to slip when changing up, and there's an annoying vibration through the steering wheel. Overall it feels like it was hastily designed around an attractive profile without due regard for ergonomics.LOOK FORSporty styleLimited rear cargo spaceSedan performance and handlingPractical family transport without the size of an SUV.THE BOTTOM LINE: Sporty shape makes wagon more appealing with minimal loss of practicality.RATING: 85/100

There are lots of surprises in the Toyota Rukus. For a start, the box is bigger than it looks in pictures. It's a full-sized family wagon, not just a Gen-Y play thing like a Kia Soul or the not-for-Australia Nissan Cube, so you have to adjust your thinking on what it is and what it does.The Rukus also drives surprisingly well. It's not a sports car, but it matches and betters the dynamics of a Corolla and is quiet at highway cruising speeds despite the Kenworth-style frontal design. The showroom stickers reflect surprising value, too, with a bottom line from $27,490 that should get it onto shopping lists in Australia's trendier suburbs and attract the early adopters who already have an iPad.Rukis is also a great building block for Gen-Y customisers who want something new and different to tweak and tizzy, not to go faster but to have something with plenty of Facebook and Twitter impact. It has more than enough space for the biggest sound system...The Rukus is a very big deal for Australia because it's the first non-Toyota car from Toyota in a very long time. Love it or hate it, it's impossible to ignore it.That's a stretch that Toyota has to make, as companies like Hyundai and Kia are running it down in the business of building transport modules and adding more style - think i45 and Koup - than anything in the T-badge mainstream.The Rukus is going fairly well for Toyota Australia but the project will take mind management and commitment on both sides, sellers and buyers, to become more than just a short-term oddity.It has plenty of strengths but it sooooo different that it stands out like nothing on the road today. Yet the basics are surprisingly boring, from a 2.4-litre Camry-style engine and outdated four-speed automatic gearbox to a Corolla-cloned chassis and suspension package.Toyota is going hard on the value front and every Rukus - there are three equipment grades - comes with six airbags, ESP stability control and anti-skid brakes, alloy wheels, aircon and keyless entry and ignition.Moving up the range brings a thumping nine-speaker sound system, auto aircon and leather-trimmed seats at the Build 2 level, and Build 3 adds a moonroof.Fuel economy is a claimed 8.8 litres/100km and Toyota Australia is bundling its fixed-price servicing, at $130-a-visit through the first six visits, to build a fuss-free purchase plan.DRIVINGIt's hard to know what to expect from the Rukus, even though I've seen it lots of times at motor shows and been looking forward to its arrival in Australia. The motor show machines have usually been tweaked beyond belief and, after some overseas seat time in the similarly-themed Nissan Cube I'm not expecting anything good on the driving side.But the Rukus is smooth and compliant, gets along well enough, is quiet in the cabin and has a body shape which gets me re-thinking everything from dashboard design to back-seat space and weekend flexibility.For me, the Rukus is definitely nicer to drive than the latest Corolla and there is plenty of punch from the 2.4-litre engine. The four-speed auto is a definite no-no, and shows the box was built for the USA and Japan, but that's about my only dynamic complaint.Toyota stacks the deck a little by supplying a Carsguide test car with all the fruit, including leather seats and a sunroof, but it's still an affordable package at around $32,000 before the on-road extras.I like the quality in the cabin, and the cushy seats, and I can see a lot of people wanting to buy into the Rukus experience. But Toyota needs to keep committed to the car, and no turn and run - as it did with when its impressive TRD Camry and HiLux ran into trouble because of high prices - if it's not an instant hit.SHE SAYS Alison WardSo the Rukus is... Designed for the young and young-at-heart, yet it is surprisingly practical. Its edgy appeal and chunky lines all add up to the funky urban look craved by new drivers and people who are plain bored with the existing hatchback and wagon shapes. The Rukus is funky, functional and fun.Its underground, gangster styling is a clever way to create wide open spaces for the interior and allows better vision for the road. Leather trim is a nice luxury touch and useful protection for the Little Man in the back seat, while the dash design and the rest of the cabin stuff keeps the cool image hip-hopping away. There are great hidey holes to scurry away your junk and the back end is easy to load with a flexible layout.As a drive, it does the job. Nothing nasty to report on that front. But I have one word of warning - don't buy it in the dark red paintwork of the test car. It definitely bursts the kool bubble. THE BOTTOM LINE: One box that doesn't need unwrapping to spring a surprise.

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Put a Toyota badge on a cardboard box and it'll sell like hotcakes, so the saying goes. Well, now Toyota's done just that.  From the car company that brought you cardigans comes a wheeled box that carries with it a new direction for Toyota - niche.Toyota plans that the square-edged Rukus that goes on sale from June 1 priced from $27,490 will in April next year be joined by the macho FJ Cruiser.  Both create the niche sector of its revised, four-sided business plan that surrounds its existing 13-model range.Later comes Toyota’s new focus on sports cars - including the collaboration coupe with Subaru presented in concept form as the FT-86 - then ‘innovation’ models including city cars with electric power, and a swelling of the hybrid ranks.  The Rukus' box-like shape follows the similarly-styled Kia Soul and, for Australia, is a styling direction previously only explored by architects and bricklayers.But after honing its marketing skills with the Rukus' predecessor, the Scion, in the US, Toyota has delivered a Corolla-sized family/single/youth-oriented vehicle with surprising appeal.Price and equipmentIt arrives in three models - Build 1,2 or 3 - with pricing at $27,490, $29,990 and $31,790 respectively but all with a high safety and feature list including standard automatic transmission, stability control, auto up/down for all electric windows, alloy wheels and cruise control.Space and fit-outLooks aside, the Rukus has a spacious and flexible interior. What makes it special is its user-friendliness.  The lift-up hatch reveals space for prams and mountain bikes, with a generous storage zone beneath the cargo floor for wet items. The spare tyre is a skinny space-saver which is the only negative.That tall height gives room inside for occupants to wear hats. That's not a request, merely recognition that the headroom is expansive and one that - together with the fishbowl windscreen and long side darkened glass - creates an airy cabin.  Seating is for four adults - five if you're friendly - with excellent legroom all around.Where the bodywork is angular, that edge is softened by the array of round instrument gauges, air vents and - not surprisingly - the steering wheel.  Like Kia's Soul, there's a lot of hard plastic inside but the effect is diluted by different textures, segmented panels and varying trim colours.The overt use of storage space impresses. There are small storage bins at either end of the dashboard for items such as mobile phones.  The impressive audio has iPod connection so there's room for the handset; the model-specific large centre console is lidded and acts as an armrest; there is a hidden tray beneath the rear seats; and the glovebox has a secondary storage area above. And there's lots of places I have yet to discover.The rear seat splits 60/40 and folds almost flat for a decent 1331 litres of space. It's not just the space but the wide accessibility to the cargo area and the high cargo floor height that will make it appeal to people - predominantly women shoppers, mothers or older owners wanting a car that's easy to load and unload.In fact, while Toyota sees the Rukus as being a youth-oriented accessory, it has broad appeal over all ages.  That cargo bed height and the tall seat height make it easy for older people to get in and out.  Families will like its space and versatility and wrinkled gear heads like me are impressed by the performance.MechanicalOn that note, the Rukus comes with a more vibrant version of the RAV4 2.4-litre engine that drives through a four-speed automatic gearbox to the front wheels.  At 123kW/224Nm it's a healthy addition that gives the wagon plenty of `go' to compete with the `show'.  The gearbox has sequential shift - the first time used in Australia for the four-speed auto - to pep up performance.Handling is pretty good for what is ostensibly a tall Corolla, though it's not a sports car.  More impressive is the quietness of the car and its fuss-free attitude to freeways. Despite its boxy shape, it has a very low aerodynamic factor of 0.32 which is better than most modern hatchbacks.The Rukus appears to be geared quite high to improve economy and, at a claimed 8.8 litres/100km is more frugal than the RAV4.  However, while the gearbox may be well suited to loping along freeways, it doesn't impinge on its sparkling acceleration and strong mid-range overtaking ability.Its performance credentials will become more necessary if owners pick up on the range of custom features laid out on the options list. Flame body stickers for the slab sides and spoilers are among the items on the Australian list but those pursuing a more individual look may find joy in the US aftermarket catalogues for the Scion.It has a wide audience, though its looks will polarise your neighbour. It is as ideal for someone who misses the Corolla wagon and doesnt want to be seen in an SUV, as it is for a single buyer bored with vanilla cars and an elderly couple who want transport that is kind on their hips and their wallets.The trick for Toyota dealers is getting you into one for a test drive.TOYOTA RUKUSOrigin: JapanPrice: $27,490 (Build 1); $29,990 (Build 2); $31,790 (Build 3)Engine: 2.4-litre, 4-cylPower: 123kW @ 6000rpmTorque: 224Nm @ 4000rpmTop speed: 190km/hFuel: Standard unleadedFuel tank: 55 litresEconomy (official): 8.8 litres/100kmEconomy (tested): 9.1 litres/100kmGreenhouse: 208g/km (Corolla: 175g/km)Transmission: 4-speed automatic, sequential; front-driveBrakes: 4-wheel discs, ESC, ABS, EBD, brake assistTurning circle: 10.6mSuspension: Front _ MacPherson struts; Rear _ torsion beam, coilsWheels: 16-inch alloy, 205/55R16 tyres; space-saver spareLength: 4260mmWidth: 1760mmHeight: 1645mmWheelbase: 2600mmWeight: 1390-1400kgTow (max): 500kgWarranty: 3yr/100,000kmService: 15,000kmRating86/100Rivals Hyundai ix35 2WD ($28,990) 86/100;Kia Soul ($27,390) 86/100;Suzuki SX4 S ($25,490) 80/100

It has added the Superb wagon to the local line-up in an attempt to sway buyers away from other Euro wagons and even the Holden Sportwagon.Costing $2000 more then the equivalent sedan models, Skoda Australia believes up to 60 per cent of Superb buyers will opt for the well-equipped wagon. With two petrol engines and one turbo-diesel, prices kick off at $40,990 for the well-equipped seven-speed DSG 118TSI Ambition, rising to $57,990 for the six-speed DSG V6 all-wheel drive Elegance.Skoda Australia boss Matthew Wiesner believes the wagon has the ability to tackle the premium European wagons and some of its more affordable Japanese rivals. The big wagon has 'family' stamped all over it, from the commodious, well thought-out luggage area to the roomy back seat."Value is one of our key strategies," he says. "We’re finally beyond the 'we're here phase' and can now build the brand with even more desirable products like the wagon."The Superb wagon has a massive load area – 633 litres with the rear seats up and 1865 with the seats folded. The tailgate is also wide enough to accommodate bulky items and the car has a low loading sill, 600mm above the ground. There’s room enough under the load area for full-size spares on the front drive Ambition and Elegance while the Elegance V6 4x4 gets a space saver."It’s clearly aimed at families," Wiesner says. "I expect we will see a far higher degree of female drivers so that’s why it’s so well equipped."VARIANTS AND EQUIPMENTLike the sedan there are two models, Ambition and Elegance. Wiesner expects most buyers to opt for the $46,990 118 TSI Elegance model, with fleets tipped into the entry 118 TSI Ambition. At $57,990 the range topping V6 all-wheel drive is out to tackle the Audi A4 wagon and Volvo V70 T6 wagon.It comes standard with the VW Group’s park assist parallel parking system, which automatically parks the car into a given space. Other equipment candy includes an optional $790 electric tailgate, magnetic rear luggage bay light that also works as a detachable torch, luggage rails and optional $370 extendable luggage floor and $140 automatic luggage cover release.The entry Ambition is not short of gear. It boasts nine airbags, 16-inch alloys, stability control, dual zone climate control, foglights, tyre pressure monitoring, heated rear view mirrors, rear parking sensors 8-speaker CD stereo, heated front seats and rain sensing wipers.The Elegance ups the standard equipment list by adding satellite navigation, leater seats, electric front seats with memory, active Bi-Xenon headlights, 10 speaker premium CD stereo, alarm, heated front and rear seats and 17 inch alloys. The V6 rides on 18-inch alloys. The running gear of the wagon is based on the sedan – which shares much with the Volkswagen Passat – but Skoda has made some modifications to cope with the extra weight and load-lugging characteristics. The rear axle housing is attached to the body with anti-vibration dampers.DRIVINGWe were already won over by the sensible Superb sedan. Now the wagon, particularly the turbo-diesel, is helping reshape the options for many families. It’s roomy like the sedan, particularly in the back seat. But out back is where it makes a whole lot of sense. Physically the wagon has better proportions than the sedan.It looks a whole lot more resolved from a design viewpoint and looks smart and contemporary. The sedan may have its quirky hatch-and-boot in-one but the wagon kicks you up a whole new level with a sensible load area, plenty of tiedowns and hidden cubbies for storing valuables.Being from the VW Group means there is plenty of well thought out switchgear and the engines too are proven and well matched for the car. The ride, handling and steering all have that familiar VW touch to them, which is a good thing. The 3.6-litre V6 – shared with the Passat - is punchy and the quad exhausts are a neat touch for Dads who want to remind the world they’re still enthusiasts even if they drive a wagon.The 2.0TDI would be our pick for long distances. It’s amazingly quiet and frugal yet has plenty of mid-range urge to keep things interesting. We didn’t get a chance to try out the 118TSI but our experience in VWs and the Octavia have been favourable. The overall fit and finish of the Superb wagon was, well, superb.The wagon is yet another brand builder that is clearly going to prove to many people that this Czech brand is no longer a poor cousin to its German parent.