First Car

I AM about to buy my first car and wonder where to buy it. I've been told the speedos on many cars at used-car yards have been altered. Buying privately seems another choice, but others have said that, even after the NRMA has checked a car, it could have problems. Where is the best place for a new hand to buy?

In a little over six months the SX4 will be morphed into a World Rally Car, complete with a turbocharged engine and four-wheel drive, to chase global motorsport success.The SX4 will also grow beyond a baby stationwagon to become a four-door sedan and, probably, a compact hatch before Suzuki has finished with development of its newest model line.The SX4 is designed as a crossover wagon, which means it is fine for young families but was really planned for people who want a wagon for carrying work. That could be dogs or bicycles or any other lifestyle accessory, including a child.It comes with a 2.0-litre engine, four-wheel drive and fully independent suspension, as well as six airbags, anti-skid brakes and even breakaway pedals for impact protection. There is a switch to lock the Suzuki in four-wheel drive, but it is basically an on-demand system. The price is sharp at $24,390 for the five-speed manual or $26,390 for the four-speed automatic.The SX4 arrives as Suzuki really gets going in Australia thanks to the Swift, which was CARSguide Car of the Year in 2005, and the Grand Vitara. All three show a new approach to design and engineering.Suzuki has put some fun stuff into the new wagon, including a keyless entry system. It also comes with alloy wheels, airconditioning, electric windows and mirrors, a tilt-adjustable steering column, audio controls on the steering wheel and a digital readout for temperature and fuel consumption.It is already doing well in Australia and causing problems for Suzuki. As with the Swift Sport, Suzuki can't keep up with demand."The car is putting a lot of pressure on us. We have just had the allocation lifted from Japan and they are expecting big things from us," Suzuki Australia sales and marketing chief Tony Devers says.He believes the SX4 is putting Suzuki on a lot of shopping lists. It will also expand the brand's following, particularly with younger people moving into their first new car, he says."We are getting a lot of people moving out of Subaru Foresters and Imprezas. They want something a bit smaller, but still with the all-wheel-drive capability."Subaru is the obvious rival, but really it's anything in the small-car area. And we have the SX4 sedan coming later in the year," Devers says.

Styled by Italian design studio Pininfarina, the Colt Cabriolet is at once stylish and goofy looking, particularly in profile with the roof up.The rear deck is too flat and long and the bubble shaped cabin too large and bulbous, creating an unbalanced appearance.With the roof down, however, the car looks like a million bucks.One thing's for sure, it's certainly got some get up and go with the 1.5-litre turbo aboard.Pininfarina has been responsible for a range of diverse and iconic designs over the years, including the Jaguar XJS, Peugeot 206CC and recently released Volvo C70 coupe/cabriolet.The company specialises in soft and hard topped roof solutions and its expertise is employed by many manufacturers.Mitsubishi says the roof system was the first thing that Pininfarina developed for the Colt Cabrio during the design phase.The roof was engineered and tested in its wind tunnel at Grugliasco, to guarantee the highest standards of safety and functionality.The fact Pininfarina engineered both the Pug and Mitsubishi cabrios is a point of interest, as the two are rivals, with a new Pug set to heat up things shortly.Our test car was certainly an eye-catcher finished in burnt metallic orange, but with a pair of the tiniest back seats that we have ever laid eyes on.There's little or no legroom for rear seat passengers and you've got to wonder why they bothered?The turbocharged engine develops 110KW of power at 6000rpm and 210Nm of torque at 3500rpm, slightly less power than the Ralliart Colt.In comparison the cheaper naturally aspirated model delivers 80kW at 6000rpm and 145Nm at 4000rpm.The force fed engine features a weight- saving hollow camshaft.Other changes have been made to accommodate the higher power output, with stronger engine and gearbox mountings, plus higher spring rates to cope with the demands of more harder acceleration and spirited handling.The turbocharged engine is mated to a five- speed Getrag manual transmission, with a revised gear set - there's no auto.Rounding off the package are 16in alloys fitted with 205/45 rubber.The end result is a car that's a bit of a tearaway, able to spin the wheels off the line, and again when changing to second gear and one that is something of a handful in the wet.Weighing in at 1200kg, it can sprint from 0 to 100km/h in 8.4 seconds and has a top speed of 205km/h.Fuel consumption from the 47-litre tank is rated at 7.2 litres/100km.We found the turbo a fun car to drive, but not exactly what you'd call cheap motoring at $37,990 plus on-roads.The roof is easily removed, with a locking clamp at each corner and luggage screen in the boot that must be extended before the roof will operate.Too much luggage and the roof will refuse to open.There's some body flex with the roof open, particularly on bumpy secondary roads - but not too much.The top of the windscreen is quite high and this minimises wind intrusion.The power-operated windows can be tricky, as one set of controls operates both front and rear windows, with a pause required between the two.You get leather and heated front seats standard, but the finish inside smacks of plastic and the sound system failed to impress.Handling is generally good, but we were wary of executing any fast cornering in the wet.It's reassuring to know that Active Stability Control (incorporating Active Traction Con- trol) is fitted along with anti-lock brakes to stop things getting out of hand.Strong front pillars and windshield frame are designed to support the car in a roll over accident, without the need for rear roll bars.Driver, passenger and side airbags are also fitted.

I HAVE reluctantly bought a 1991 Nissan Pintara Ti 2.4-litre automatic five-door hatch for my daughter to learn to drive. It's in immaculate original condition and done 111,000km. After searching various motoring websites, I was unable to find a used-car review on this particular model. The car has been regularly serviced and has full service records and recently both front inner and outer CV joints were replaced. What I should keep an eye out for because I have driven various Holdens for 30 years?

This monster of a small car attempts the engineering no mean feat of putting 190kW and 380Nm through the front wheels only, and most of the time it gets away with it.

School's out for summer. School's out for ever!And now it's time to get a job, go to university and, most importantly, get your first car.High school leavers are now facing one of the most important, daunting, yet exciting decisions of their life in buying their first car.There are so many factors to think about: price, safety, economy, running costs, vehicle age, insurance; all on limited funds and with limited knowledge about cars, and finance.To most young people, the most important thing is probably looks.After all, you don't want to be spotted by all your mates in a white Camry in the drive-through at Maccas.And who can blame you?That's why so many young people buy old grey-import Silvias instead of Camrys. It's because they are red, they look fast and they were featured in one of the Fast and Furious movies.However, often the car ends up spending most of its time being repaired, waiting on a part to come from Japan or simply getting it to start, steer and stop.But is used the way to go?There are many small new cars on the market from as low as $13,990 which have the latest modern safety features, plus advantages of new car warranties.My first car in 1975 was a 1957 Morris Major Elite in army green with occasional windscreen wipers, stockings instead of a fan belt, a hole in the passenger seat, dubious mechanicals and copious amounts of rust.But it cost only $400 and didn't need insuring.You probably also have your stories of first-car lemons.We asked around the industry for advice about buying a first car, new and used.The best three tips were research, research and more research.AAMI state corporate affairs manager Mike Sopinski said the first port of call should be the Office of Fair Trading website."Before you hit the street to look for a new or used car I'd recommend you take the time to check out the Office of Fair Trading website," he said."In fact, I'd say it should be compulsory for all first-time buyers as this government site provides a host of useful and easy to read information about buying a car."Other research young buyers can use is classified ads in newspapers and on the internet.Comparisons will give the buyer a good feel for the true price of a car.The RACQ advises young buyers to work out what they need in a car even before they start looking for one.Whether they ask for it or not, young buyers will certainly get a lot of advice; from friends, relatives and car salespeople.Two Brisbane school leavers on the hunt for their first car both claim a big influence from their family, particularly their fathers.Justine Townsend, 16, of Forest Lake, is looking at a 2000 or 2001 Honda Civic "because they are supposed to be the safest car on the road so my dad tells me".Her father, Peter, drives a Honda Euro, which has "always been reliable".Michael Freeleagus, 17, also of Forest Lake, goes car-shopping with his father, Leon, "because he knows a bit about cars"."He will support my decision on a car so long as it doesn't have a big motor like a V8 or a turbo," he said."He also cares about the looks of the car so it doesn't attract the cops."NRMA Insurance Queensland state manager Brett Robinson said young drivers should think about more than just look and feel."While many factors need to be considered when shopping around for a new car, safety and security should be the number one priority for all drivers," he said.Townsend agrees.There are choices people can make when buying a new vehicle that may significantly reduce their risk of injury and theft and can even result in savings when it comes to car insurance, he said."The most important thing is safety and that it won't break down on me because I am a girl," she said.It seems she is not alone. A Just Car Insurance survey has found 93 per cent of young people rated value for money as an important factor when buying a car, followed by safety and security on 85 per cent.Case study No 1, Justine TownsendAge: 16Shopping list: considering a late-model Honda Civic or Mitsubishi MirageBudget: $5000-$6000Dream car: BMW 5 Series or Nissan Skyline"THE most important thing for me is safety and that it won't break down on me because I am a girl."Safety is imoprtant because the thought of being in an accident is pretty scary. Fuel economy is also important."Justine has narrowed down her car choices to the two Japanese models and will buy through a broker "who is a friend of my dad".She has had her learner's licence for six months and has been working at a Coffee Club outlet for 2 1/2 years to save up for a car."I've nearly got all the money, but the formal put a few dents in the savings account."I need a lot more work to pay for the car. I'll probably start full time work when I finish school."Her budget is between $5000 and $6000 and she is aware that insurance will put a big hole in her running costs."I got a quote for comprehensive insurance and it is nearly $2300 a year from RACQ."I rang them about deals where I get on my parents' policy but because I am the main driver I have to start my own policy."I'll probably just get third-party property and theft."Justine needs a car for work and uni. She is hoping to go to The University of Queensland to study international hotel and toursim management.And when she gets her car, she will keep it fairly standard."I wouldn't get it done up, I'd keep it clean and perhaps put a sound system in it."Case study No. 2, Michael FreeleagusAge: 17Shopping list: Mitsubishi LancerBudget: about $7500Dream car: HQ Monaro"I love Holdens. I like the HQ because it's old school. Anyway, it's a Monaro which speaks for itself."Back to reality and he is in the market for Mitsubishi Lancers."I have had my eye on a 1994 Lancer but it didn't pass the RACQ check. lt was fully done up."I'm now looking at a 2001 model that is standard for $7500.”He chose the Lancer "because I always liked Mitsubishi" and because his father, Leon, has a Triton which has never given any trouble."The two door gives it a sporty appearance and the 1.5litre motor makes it cheap to run."I just want something that is reliable and cheap to run."When you are going to uni and have a part-time job you need to keep costs down."Michael, who wants to be a PE teacher, said he got a $1400 quote from Just Car Insurance for comprehensive cover."They look after young people and it is insured in my parents' names, nominating me as one of the drivers."After buying and insuring the car, Michael wants to do some modifications."I'd probably change the exhaust. I'd like to make it sound more like a four-stroke motorbike."I'd probably do the rims, a sound system, custom pedals, steering wheel and gear knob.Michael has been researching used cars on the internet and in the paper.Michael has had a learner's licence since January and has been practising in his mum's automatic car."I want to get a manual and practise in that before I go for my test."

According to research and statistics, it seems they are making pretty sensible buying decisions.In a national survey of young drivers, 93 per cent rated value for money as an important factor when buying a car, followed by safety and security (85 per cent).More than half (52 per cent) of the 1053 drivers aged 18-25 years polled in the Just Car Insurance survey rated environmental friendliness as a key factor.Items such as brand, colour and how the vehicle looks to others rated lower on the scale.It comes as no surprise that the most popular car for young drivers is the Holden Commodore.Except for a couple of months this year and last year during high petrol prices, the Commodore has also been the biggest-selling car over the past 10 years.That very fact means there are a lot out there and that reduces second-hand prices, making them more affordable and attractive to first-car buyers.Commodores make up about 8 per cent of the 32,000 vehicles registered for road service under the RACQ's free2go youth membership program.Second favourite is also no surprise. The Toyota Corolla, which was the car that pipped the Commodore for sales and is consistently the second-highest seller, accounts for 6.25 per cent for free2go members.Next were the Ford Laser at 5 per cent and Hyundai Excel at 4.75 per cent.The financial realities of first car ownership is reflected in the average ages of those vehicles: an average 12.1 years old for the Commodore, 14.8 years for the Corolla, 15.7 for the Laser and 9.2 for the Excel.The average age of the top 40 models driven by free2go members is 12.4 years, with the Toyota Corona — number 20 on the list — soldiering on at an average 21.4 years.The free2go program offers free RACQ membership for three years to all Queensland residents from the age of 17 or school year 12.Roadside assistance on any vehicle being driven by a free2go member is included in the first year. In the second and third years, members can opt to nominate a vehicle for road service at half the full RACQ membership fee; or simply maintain access to all other standard RACQ services at no charge.While sensible factors are top-rating among young people in the Just Car Insurance survey, car image still plays a major role with 27 per cent believing you can tell what somebody is like by the car they drive.The poll also found 30 per cent saying they are more likely to take notice of somebody who has an expensive car.However, 38 per cent claim the look of the car doesn't matter — it only needs to get them from A to B.Sex appeal is also important with 18 per cent more attracted to someone who drives a nice car and 40 per cent claiming a nice car helps attract the opposite sex.Some of the results differed between the sexes and overall the guys were more interested in vehicle style and the impression it gives: 57 per cent rated how it looks to others as important versus 40 per cent young women; 91 per cent of women were more interested in safety and security compared with 79 per cent of men.Contrary to the perception that youth drive modified vehicles, 72 per cent drive standard vehicles without modifications.Almost two-thirds (62 per cent) believe young drivers are unfairly criticised for their driving.

The far-reaching web of the bright yellow Ferrari 360 Spider was cast in the form of a looming shadow down the straight at Oran Park.Five laps into the reverse-grid component of this CAMS licence qualifier, the little Swift Sport had clawed its way to the lead from ninth on the grid before being thwarted on the straight by a Porsche Cayman S.The next straight was upon us — but as the golden Ferrari filled my rear-view mirror, the black-and-white flag heralded the race's end.Short reverse-grid handicap though it was, the supercar had been undone by a $23,990 hatchback. It ain't called Swift for nothing.Suzuki may have abandoned the famous GTi nameplate, but a decade since the last hot Swift, it has lost none of its famous fun factor.The standard 1.5 litre Swift engine has been pumped up to 1.6, its new-found 92kW peaking at the 6800rpm limit.On song, the engine is as harmonic as a soprano on speed, and the ensuing adrenalin rush is sparked more by an aural inducement than an actual surge of power.This sweet engine produces 18kW more than the standard donor engine and 15Nm more torque, with 148Nm on tap.Power has been found with the installation of a new block, inlet and exhaust camshafts, crankshaft, pistons and rings, conrods, intake and exhaust manifolds. Add to these an electronic throttle body and a bigger muffler.The engine is matched to a smooth, close-ratio, short-throw five-speed manual. The gear whine in first sounds alarmingly like a police siren.Despite peak torque occurring at 4800rpm, 800rpm higher than in a standard Swift, the Sport responds eagerly from remarkably low revs.The gearing is an absolute joy, with even fourth pulling strongly up steep inclines.On the highway, however, the Sport could use a sixth gear; at 100km/h, it's singing away at 3300rpm.Cruise control is optional, and 98RON fuel is required.To the Sport's credit, a day driving laps around Oran Park, combined with highway stints to and from the track, produced a fuel consumption of just 9.8 litres per 100km. Normal city driving saw figures in the low sevens.But this has always been the beauty of the smaller hot hatch. The Sport weighs in at just 1100kg — only 40kg more than its Swift S sibling, despite some top-shelf specs (although it has a can of goop instead of a spare tyre.) The Sport is quick to stop, too, with the standard rear drums replaced by discs.Rubber is excellent: the Dunlop SP Sport Maxx tyres are wrapped around gorgeous 16-inch alloys that provide feel without rattling the teeth.The Sport's suspension is stiffened with new Monroe shocks, and suspension and tyres provide great feedback without compromising ride quality in the slightest.The vaguely loose feel of the slightly roly-poly standard car is all but gone. Even the seats have better side support.Extra chassis stiffness is provided by a rear floor crossmember and additional right- and left-side floor members.The body is shaped for speed, with a gaping front air dam, revised front and rear bumpers and spoiler, and colours like Courage Yellow, which is brighter than Las Vegas.Against both the exotica and the cars in its category, the Sport sure stands out.With six airbags and ABS as standard, along with sports and spec appeal, it will give the Citroen C2 VTS/VTR, Ford Fiesta Zetec and Mini Cooper a run for their money.The premium for the Swift Sport is a $6000 stretch over the similarly specced Swift S. But the go-fast goodies in a little car that can brag about beating a Ferrari are well and truly priceless. With thanks to Ian Luff Motivation Australia, Oran Park.

MY SON is thinking of buying a 1986 BMW 318i as a first car to travel to uni next year, they are asking $1500 for it. What should I ask my mechanic to look for before buying it.

The hatch is aimed at young buyers who want something remotely sporty and good looking, despite their limited funds.The sedan, says Hyundai director of sales and marketing Theo van Doore, "is more suited to small families and older and more conservative buyers".And it shows.While the sedan boasts a host of new features, being bigger and offering more interior space — including a good-sized boot — than the previous model, it is not going to win prizes for its looks.It is definitely suited to more conservative buyers who are looking for a steady and comfortable car to get them about town with a minimum of fuss, reasonable economy and a maximum of reliability.The new Accent is powered by an upgraded version of the 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine that now has Continuously Variable Valve Timing for improved performance.It does 0-100km/h in 10.2 seconds, which is respectable for such a car but is not intended to break records. All-important fuel economy is good in the Accent, as would be expected for a car of this size.The manual sedan tested has a combined claimed economy rate of 6.8 litres per 100km, the best of all the Accent variants.It has a 45-litre tank that should equate to up to 660km travelling. And with the Sydney price for unleaded hovering around $1.35 a litre it will cost about $60 to fill.Safety is also becoming a major issue for small car buyers. The new Accent gains ABS with electronic brake force distribution and improved brakes. The discs are bigger on the front and the old rear drums have been binned to make way for rear disc brakes.The previous model Accent rated an overall three stars (five is the best) for crash safety in Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) testing but the new car has not yet been tested by them. The most seriousproblem noted with the previous model was a high risk of chest injury for the driver in a side-impact crash.Hyundai says the new car has a stronger and stiffer cabin cell structure along with stronger doors including strengthened side-impact beams to reduce impact injury.Inside, the Accent is well-equipped with a leather steering wheel and gear knob and power windows on all doors, although the plastic finish is plain.The CD-player/radio system is MP3- and WMA-capable and plays through six speakers.A lot of work has gone into improving storage space inside the car, which includes a larger glovebox, a sunglasses storage area overhead, four cupholders, storage space in the door capable of taking bottles and even a recess area under the steering column that is designed to take a folded-up umbrella.However, it could do with more space and is particularly let down by not having a centre console. Leg room is good in the front and the rear will seat two adults or three children fairly comfortably.Accent handles city driving pretty comfortably. The manual gearbox is a smooth shifter with light changes and clutch movement.Wind and road noise levels are reduced from the previous model but are still quite noticeable. The manual sedan is priced at $17,490 with metallic paint an extra $350.It will cost an extra $2000 for the auto, which will account for more sales.In comparison, the three-door hatchback starts at $15,990.A big plus for Hyundai buyers seeking minimum-fuss motoring is the warranty, which stands at five years/130,000km.