I t’s no secret that the New Zealand new-car market is enjoying substantial growth. Last year the overall market exceeded 113,000 registrations, a 12.4% increase on 2012 and the highest number on record since 1984. Motor Industry Association (MIA) chief executive David Crawford says 2013 will be remembered as the year in which the New Zealand industry really started to recover – particularly for business and commercial customers: “A number of factors contributed to strong demand, such as the Christchurch rebuild, the strong Auckland regional economy, the growing strength of the national economy and the high dollar resulting in businesses having the confidence to replace big-ticket items.” Industry analysts are understandably cautious about predicting the same level of growth this year but the early signs are strong. Figures to April show a 15% increase for total registrations for the year to date. March saw a record for new cars and the strongest sales since 1989. The totals tell part of the story. But aside from sheer volume, there are changes happening in passenger-car buyer preference. The Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) continues its rise in prominence and now accounts for a staggering 31% of new-car sales. It’s the single most popular type of passenger car in New Zealand, represented in virtually every market segment and at every price point. It’s natural that the local industry is moving to meet that demand. But as this edition of Showroomdemonstrates, it’s not at the cost of variety in other market segments. Indeed, perhaps such a strong base to work from is encouraging the automotive industry to explore more options than ever in its product portfolios. There is safety in numbers – and more choice for we consumers. NBR Motoring Editor David Linklater KIWI NEW CAR MARKET FIRING ON ALL CYLINDERS AUTUMN 2014 at the cos Indeed, is enco more o There i co 2 WHAT'S THIS AUTUMN NBR SHOWROOM AUTUMN 2014 ASTON MARTIN V12 VANTAGE S The new V12 Vantage S is one of Aston Martin’s most extreme road cars yet: its smallest model powered by its largest engine. With a new 6.0-litre powerplant, the V12 Vantage S is the fastest-accelerating Aston Martin in the range. Nearly the fastest-ever: with a 0-100km/h time of just 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 330km/h, it’s bettered only by the ultra-exclusive One-77 (now out of production). Working with the new engine is the latest Sportshift III automated manual transmission and three-stage adaptive damping. Drivers can choose from Normal, Sport and Track modes, which also govern the level of power assistance provided for the steering. The intention is to give customers an experience close to that of a GT3 racing car, with much of the technology in the V12 Vantage S derived from Aston Martin’s motorsport programmes. Dr Ulrich Bez, chief executive of Aston Martin, describes the V12 Vantage S thus: “It’s a car for those who want superior sporting performance in a ‘gentleman’s suit’. It’s the most pure, yet understated, driving machine we can imagine today.” SPECIFICATIONS Engine: 6.0-litre petrol V12 Power: 421kW Torque: 620Nm Fuel consumption: 12.3 litres per 100km Price: $320,000
Transcript
It’s no secret that the New Zealand new-car market is enjoying
substantial growth. Last year the overall market exceeded 113,000
registrations, a 12.4% increase on 2012 and the highest number on
record since 1984.
Motor Industry Association (MIA) chief executive David Crawford
says 2013 will be remembered as the year in which the New Zealand
industry really started to recover – particularly for business and
commercial customers: “A number of factors contributed to strong
demand, such as the Christchurch rebuild, the strong Auckland
regional economy, the growing strength of the national economy
and the high dollar resulting in businesses having the confidence to
replace big-ticket items.”
Industry analysts are understandably cautious about predicting
the same level of growth this year but the early signs are strong.
Figures to April show a 15% increase for total registrations for the
year to date. March saw a record for new cars and the strongest sales
since 1989.
The totals tell part of the story. But aside from sheer volume,
there are changes happening in passenger-car buyer preference.
The Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) continues its rise in prominence and
now accounts for a staggering 31% of new-car sales. It’s the single
most popular type of passenger car in New Zealand, represented in
virtually every market segment and at every price point.
It’s natural that the local industry is moving to meet that demand.
But as this edition of Showroom demonstrates, it’s not
at the cost of variety in other market segments.
Indeed, perhaps such a strong base to work from
is encouraging the automotive industry to explore
more options than ever in its product portfolios.
There is safety in numbers – and more choice for we
consumers.
NBR Motoring Editor David Linklater
KIWI NEW CAR MARKET FIRING ON ALL CYLINDERS
AUTUMN 2014
at the cost of variety in other market segments.
Indeed, perhaps such a strong base to work from
is encouraging the automotive industry to explore
more options than ever in its product portfolios.
There is safety in numbers – and more choice for we
consumers.
2
WHAT'S
THIS AUTUMN
NBR SHOWROOM AUTUMN 2014
ASTON MARTIN V12 VANTAGE SThe new V12 Vantage S is one of Aston Martin’s most extreme road cars yet: its smallest model powered by its largest engine. With a new 6.0-litre powerplant, the V12 Vantage S is the fastest-accelerating Aston Martin in the range. Nearly the fastest-ever: with a 0-100km/h time of just 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 330km/h, it’s bettered only by the ultra-exclusive One-77 (now out of production).Working with the new engine is the latest Sportshift III automated manual transmission and three-stage adaptive damping. Drivers can choose from Normal, Sport and Track modes,
which also govern the level of power assistance provided for the steering. The intention is to give customers an experience close to that of a GT3 racing car, with much of the technology in the V12 Vantage S derived from Aston Martin’s motorsport programmes.Dr Ulrich Bez, chief executive of Aston Martin, describes the V12 Vantage S thus: “It’s a car for those who want superior sporting performance in a ‘gentleman’s suit’. It’s the most pure, yet understated, driving machine we can imagine today.”
SPECIFICATIONS
Engine: 6.0-litre petrol V12Power: 421kW Torque: 620NmFuel consumption: 12.3 litres per 100kmPrice: $320,000
The Accord NT. Powered with more intelligence than any other car in its class.
Earth Dreams Engine Technology
LaneWatch Camera
Collision Mitigation Braking System
Lane Keep Assist System
High-Beam Support System
Adaptive Cruise Control
Smart Keyless Entry
Emergency Stop Signal
Multi-Angle Reversing Camera
Trailer Stability Control
Tyre Deflation Warning System
Memory Driver’s Seat
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For an instant online lease or finance quote visit www.honda.co.nzAccord S $652 per month, Accord NT $777 per month, Accord V6NT $887 per month.*Based on 45 months / 55,000km - non-maintained operating lease, excl. GST.
4 WHAT’S HOT NBR SHOWROOM AUTUMN 2014
An epic in a world of short stories. The new 911 Turbo.
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A downsize in engine capacity has not slowed Audi’s latest RS6 down at all. It might now be a 4.0-litre V8 instead of the previous 5.0-litre V10, but it’s also faster than ever. The RS 6 can demolish the 0-100km/h sprint in 3.9 seconds, which puts it at true supercar pace.
Yet it consumes 30% less fuel than before, thanks partly to cylinder-on-demand technology that turns the V8 engine into a V6 under light load, and a 100kg reduction in weight compared with the previous model.As always, Audi’s RS division has made extensive modifications to the base car. The RS 6 engine is significantly different from the same-capacity unit in the S6, for example, while the eight-speed automatic transmission and air suspension system are uniquely configured for this high-performance machine.The RS 6 also continues a fine tradition of super-wagons from the high-performance marque. Many of the RS division’s most famous models have been the Avant (wagon) body shape, including its first-ever road car, the RS 2. The latest RS 6 is still only available as an Avant.RS has been expanding of late, though. There are currently six different RS models on sale, including the RS 7 – essentially a five-door fastback version of the RS 6.
All supercars have stirring origin stories and deep-seated heritage but the McLaren name is particularly important to New Zealanders. The modern Formula One racing team is directly descended from Aucklander Bruce McLaren and the more recent road-car division also revives his spirit: it was Bruce McLaren’s dream to produce the ultimate road car and he was working on just such a project, the M6GT, when he was killed in 1970.McLaren Automotive has launched a new road car every year since its formation in 2010. The latest, the 650S, is a development of the 12C: more aggressive looking with styling cues from the flagship P1 hypercar, faster and even more focused on high performance and virtuoso handling.The 650S retains the adaptive damping system of the 12C, but with firmer spring rates. The steering has been made sharper, braking upgraded and extra downforce added.The 650S can accelerate from 0-100km/h in just 3.0 seconds and to 200km/h in 8.4 seconds. Top speed is 333km/h.Despite the more focused dynamic attitude, McLaren says the 650S is far from a stripped-out racer. Luxury features include Alcantara upholstery and a fully featured satellite navigation system. The model is available in both coupe and Spider versions.
Ford is taking maximum advantage of the burgeoning sports utility vehicle (SUV) market in New Zealand with
a triumvirate of crossover models. The just-launched EcoSport is an urban SUV that packages crossover styling
and practicality into the small-car segment, while the full-size Territory continues to serve buyers with the need for maximum
cargo space and the ability to carry up to seven occupants.
In the middle is Kuga, certainly the most global of the Blue
Oval’s SUVs and, arguably, the most accomplished and well-equipped.Kuga exemplifies Ford’s new direction: it’s a world car that does
not differentiate greatly between international markets, it embraces the maker’s new
EcoBoost petrol engine technology and it is astonishingly well-equipped for a vehicle of this type.
The flagship Kuga Titanium model features autonomous braking to prevent nose-to-tail accidents in city driving, adaptive cruise control, blind-
spot warning, a tailgate that will open automatically when you wave your foot under the bumper and even self-parking technology: the vehicle can identify and steer itself into a suitable parking space, while the driver handles accelerator and brake inputs.
According to Citroen, the acronym attached to its DS range of vehicles stands for Dynamic Style. But of course it’s also a tip of the beret to some of the marque’s classically elegant models from the past: the DS of the 1950s (“deesse” meaning “goddess” in French) and the CX that followed.
None more so than the latest DS5. While the smaller DS3 and DS4 have a small and overtly sporty stance, the DS5’s svelte lines clearly recall the DS and CX.That said, you could not argue
the DS5 is retro. It is powered by Citroen’s latest HDi turbo-diesel engine and eschews the marque’s trademark fluid-filled Hydractive suspension – directly descended from the Hydropneumatic system on the original DS – in favour of conventional steel springs and large 18-inch wheels, for a more involving handling character .You could even call it low flying: the cabin is designed around an aviation theme, including a heads-up display, overhead switches and even a three-part glass roof, with sections that can be individually closed off from bright sunlight.
The all-new M{zd{3 is hereOne look tells you the all-new Mazda3 is special. The fi rst drive confi rms it. SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY gives you sports performance with exceptional fuel economy; while i-ACTIVSENSE* safety technology provides an extra set of eyes for greater driving enjoyment. Plus, MZD Connect* keeps you informed and in-touch with everything from live navigation to internet radio and social media connectivity. Whether you choose Hatch or Sedan, begin your Next Great Drive at your local Mazda Dealer or go to allnewmazda3.co.nz
*Availability varies by model.
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8 WHAT’S HOT NBR SHOWROOM AUTUMN 2014
The third-generation Mini may look familiar but it’s completely new: larger, better-performing and more generously equipped than the previous model.Entry to the new range is an innovative 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbo model with remarkable fuel efficiency but the top of the range still features a tearaway model with serious power outputs for such a compact car:
141kW/280Nm for the Cooper S, enough to propel it to 100km/h in
under seven seconds.The new Mini is 98mm longer,
with a wheelbase extended by 28mm for the benefit of passengers front and rear. The luggage compartment is also now 25% larger, at 211
litres.The suspension has been
redesigned and the driver can now choose different vehicle
setups depending on mood and road conditions: a rotary switch changes
the car between Sport and Green modes, in addition to the
standard configuration.There’s also a new dashboard layout, with an instrument cluster on the steering column showing road and
engine speed, and a central panel with new display
elements, including a coloured LED ring that lights up in response
Bentley’s Flying Spur has branched out into a separate model line. Unlike the first-generation model, it no longer wears the Continental badge of its two-door stablemate and has been endowed with a very different look and feel.Bentley’s unique W12 engine configuration and fulltime four-wheel drive system remains but the Flying Spur has been re-engineered with more emphasis on comfort and ultimate refinement. The interior is still crafted by hand and features over 600 new parts compared with the previous model, with styling inspiration from the larger Mulsanne. Even the exhaust system has been redesigned to liberate more space for rear-seat passengers , such is the level of attention to detail.Among the high-tech comfort and convenience features in the Flying Spur is a new device called the Touch Screen Remote (TSR). It’s a smartphone-like control that can be used to access vehicle settings such as heating and ventilation, or even serve as a display for vehicle road speed. The TSR works in synch with the Flying Spur’s new Rear Seat Entertainment (RSE) system, which includes dual 10-inch screens and wi-fi connectivity.
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The Blondini gang is back, but this time around they’re in a brand new MINI. With new more powerful engines, new options, new safety features and new driver assist features, the all new MINI can handle anything the gang throws at it.
Meet the new original, and stay tuned for our other new original - the 2014 remake of an iconic chase scene from Goodbye Pork Pie, starring the brand new MINI.
Visit GOODBYEPORKPIE2014.CO.NZ to see if you’ve got what it takes to join the Blondini gang.
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10 WHAT’S HOT NBR SHOWROOM AUTUMN 2014
The latest Accord has brought cutting-edge driver assistance technology to the
Japanese maker’s model range. The flagship NT (Navigation and
Technology) model boasts a range of active safety features that include adaptive cruise
control (which works between 30-180km/h to automatically keep you the correct distance
from the car in front), Collision Mitigating Braking System (CMBS) with audible/
visual alerts and initial braking activation, Lane Keep Assist System (LKAS) that will gently move the steering wheel should you stray out of your lane, and a unique blind spot monitoring system that shows
the view from the left-hand door mirror in the centre-console colour screen when
changing lanes.The NT specification level is available with
both 2.4-litre four-cylinder and 3.5-litre V6 engines. The Accord’s powerplants are part of
Honda’s Earth Dreams powertrain family, which means they have the latest fuel
efficiency technology.The new V6-engined Accord is nearly one litre per 100km more economical than the previous model. The improvement comes not only from modifications to
the engine itself but also a new six-speed automatic transmission and the move to
electric power assistance for the steering.
HONDA ACCORD V6 NT
SPECIFICATIONS
Engine: 3.5-litre petrol V6Power: 206kWTorque: 339NmFuel consumption: 6.8 litres per 100kmPrice: $60,000
Jaguar is famous for its high-performance R-badged models. But working on the theory that nothing succeeds like excess, it has created an even more specialised “ultra high performance” brand: R-S.The first was the XKR-S coupe. The second is this, the XFR-S – the ultimate version of the maker’s acclaimed XF sedan.The XFR-S incorporates features from both the XKR-S and F-Type sports car. Power and torque from its 5.0-litre supercharged V8 have been increased by 30kW/55Nm compared with the standard XFR, with no impact on fuel economy or emissions. It can sprint from 0-100km/h in 4.6 seconds.The eight-speed automatic transmission has a Quickshift function (as employed on the F-Type) for faster changes. The suspension has been substantially upgraded and the electronic differential and stability control systems have been recalibrated. Jaguar claims the car offers 30% greater steering precision compared with the XFR.The XFR-S is easily identified by carbon fibre detailing and improved aerodynamics, which reduce lift at high speed by 68%. The car wears special 20-inch alloy wheels with bespoke Pirelli tyres.Exclusive interior materials include carbon leather and contrasting micro-piping/stitching. The dark aluminium finish used on the dashboard is exclusive to the R-S range.
JAGUAR XFR-S
12 WHAT’S HOT NBR SHOWROOM AUTUMN 2014
DS LINE BY CITROËN.IT’S YOUR WORLD. WHY CONFORM?
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SEE WHATMAKES THE DS LINE DIFFERENT
SPORTY. ELEGANT. INDIVIDUAL. With its striking design, advanced technology and luxurious fi nish, the bold new DS Line by CITROËN is certain to turn heads. Is it the typically European attention to detail? Or the sporty exterior that demands to be looked at? Perhaps it’s both. Decide for yourself when you visit your CITROËN Dealer.
www.citroen.co.nz
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The Mazda3 is the third all-new model in as many years to be designed and built around the Japanese maker’s SkyActiv technology.As with the CX-5 crossover and Mazda6, the Mazda3 was created with the concept of lightweight construction and low-friction powertrain components – to the extent that it’s more powerful than the previous model, yet up to 30% more fuel efficient.But the new Mazda3 is just as strong on showroom appeal. The brand’s so-called Kodo styling template is synonymous with SkyActiv and gives the car a striking appearance. Inside, it’s arguably the best equipped car in its segment. Even the entry-level model has the MZD Connect touch-screen system and a reversing camera but, by the time you arrive at the flagship SP25 Limited, you are experiencing the very latest in active technology – not to mention an arsenal of acronyms.The Limited’s Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) systems are shared with the standard SP25 and GSX models but it also features High Beam Control (HBC) for the lights, Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS), Forward Obstruction Warning (FOW), and Smart Brake Support (SBS), which includes a function for urban driving that can automatically stop the car from up to 30km/h, to prevent a nose-to-tail collision.
MAZDA3 SP25 LIMITED
SPECIFICATIONS
Engine: 2.5-litre petrol four-cylinderPower: 138kWTorque: 250NmFuel consumption: 6.1 litres per 100kmPrice: $47,495
The CT200h hatchback has joined the new generation of Lexus models, with revised frontal styling featuring the brand’s signature spindle grille and the option of a performance-themed F Sport model.The F Sport is marked by its mesh grille insert and
unique front bumper shape, rear spoiler and a bespoke design for its 17-inch alloy wheels. The F Sport is also available in a two-tone colour scheme, with a contrasting black roof.The CT200h retains a hybrid powertrain based on a 1.8-litre Atkinson cycle petrol engine and electric motor with nickel metal-hydride battery pack. However, the F Sport model rides on a different state of suspension tune – firmer than the standard car for improved handling characteristics.Inside, the CT200h F Sport has a unique instrument panel and sports seats with leather upholstery. The F Sport can also be specified with a 13-speaker Mark Levinson premium sound system and satellite navigation, as featured on the more luxury oriented CT200h Limited model.
LEXUS CT200H F SPORT
SPECIFICATIONS
Engine: 1.8-litre petrol four-cylinder with hybrid electric systemPower: 100kW (total system output)Torque: 207NmFuel consumption: 4.1 litres per 100kmPrice: $59,995
*Lease rate is for a Mitsubishi Lancer GSR based on a Non-Maintained Operating Lease for 45 Months & 55,000kms. Credit criteria and conditions apply. Off er available until 30 June 2014. See www.mmnz.co.nz/fl eet for full terms and conditions.
The name that stood for performance and style is back, with more features than ever. It has bold new styling, a powerful yet economical engine, smart features throughout and it drives as well as it looks. We’d be happy to show the complete package. Just contact us now on 0800 54 53 52 and we’ll tee up a test drive. Or for more information, visit www.mmnz.co.nz/fleet
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14 WHAT’S HOT NBR SHOWROOM AUTUMN 2014
Off er valid 1st April – 30th June 2014, while stocks last. 1. This special price of $51,990 + on road costs is available on Territory Titanium RWD Petrol. The Territory Titanium AWD Diesel special price is $60,990 + on road costs. Off er only available from participating Ford New Zealand Dealerships. This off er is not available in conjunction with any other special off ers.
I spy something beginning with DVD.The family friendly Territory Titanium, with rear DVD player.
Off ffer er valvalidid 1st1st ApAprilril – 30t30th Jh Juneune 20201414, whwhileile ststockocks ls lastast. 11.ThThisis spespeciacial pl pricrice oe of $f $51,990 + on road costs iss avaTitanium RWD Petrol. The Territory Titanium AWD Diesel special price is $60,990 + on road costs.s. OOff er oparticipating Ford New Zealand Dealerships. This off er is not available in conjunj ction on witwith ah any other spe
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No longer merely a little brother to the iconic 911, the Porsche Boxster has grown into a serious sports machine that stands as a modern classic in its own right.The latest model is set for a major upgrade with the imminent arrival of a GTS version. Building on the Boxster S, the GTS adds a further 11kW/10Nm and a host of dynamic improvements. It’s also the first Boxster to break the 280km/h threshold.Porsche’s Sport Chrono package an d Active Suspension Management (PASM) are fitted as standard to the GTS. It can also be specified with a sports chassis
configuration that lowers the ride height by a further 20mm.From the outside, the Boxster GTS is identified by its bespoke front spoiler, black-finish headlights and black 20-inch Carrera alloy wheels. Sports seats and leather upholstery are standard.The GTS (Gran Turismo Sport) name dates back to 1963 and the classic 904 GTS – essentially a racing car that could be registered for road use. In modern times, the GTS badge has been used on the 911, Cayenne and Panamera.
PORSCHE BOXSTER GTS
SPECIFICATIONS
Engine: 3.4-litre petrol sixPower: 243kWTorque: 370NmFuel consumption: 8.8 litres per 100kmPrice: $155,000 (estimated)
15NBR SHOWROOM AUTUMN 2014 WHAT’S HOT
*Offer available on all new Lexus models purchased and delivered from an Authorised Lexus Dealer between 1 April 2014 and 30 June 2014. Subject to stock availability. Offer is based on purchase of vehicle at Lexus Retail Price. On road costs will be charged. The 4 years’ Lexus vehicle insurance is subject to normal Lexus Insurance acceptance criteria and drivers must be at least 25 years of age and fully licensed. The four year tyre replacement is for one set of factory fitted tyres on the vehicle you have purchased and must be replaced within four years of vehicle purchase date. Full terms and conditions are available from your Lexus Dealer or online at www.lexus.co.nz
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Mitsubishi is the brand that can truly claim to have made the electric car mainstream. Its new Outlander PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) is an EV with virtually no opportunity cost attached. It can work in pure electric mode or as a hybrid if longer range is needed. It costs only a little more than a conventional Outlander and retains the space, practicality and four-wheel drive ability of any other mid-size sports utility vehicle.The PHEV will charge in six hours from mains power and run for approximately 50km before the lithium batteries are depleted. At that time the vehicle becomes a series hybrid, with the petrol engine acting as a generator to keep the car running as an EV. At open road speeds, the PHEV can also operate as the kind of hybrid we are more familiar with: the petrol engine drives the front wheels and the batteries assist when needed.The PHEV is not merely a green car: Mitsubishi argues it’s the true flagship of the Outlander range in every way, with superior performance and refinement to any other model. In the VRX version, it also boasts the most luxurious specification.
MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER PHEV VRX
SPECIFICATIONS
Engine: 2.0-litre petrol four-cylinder with two electric motorsPower: 88kW (petrol) plus 60kW (each electric motor)Torque: 189NmFuel consumption: 1.9 litres per 100kmPrice: $66,990
16 WHAT’S HOT NBR SHOWROOM AUTUMN 2014
Range Rover’s new Sport model finally lives up to its name: with aluminium construction techniques and chassis technology similar to the full-size Range Rover (although only 25% of parts are shared between the two), the Sport has shed up to 420kg in weight and acquired a whole new attitude when it
comes to tight corners.That’s not to say the Sport has lost its off-road prowess. It’s still incredibly capable in the rough, with similar chassis systems to the larger Range Rover. It has the new-generation Terrain Response system, which includes an automatic mode: thus selected, the Sport can determine what kind of terrain it is on and adjust the powertrain and chassis accordingly.However, the Sport features an additional Dynamic setting on the Terrain Response menu, which is there primarily for brisk on-road driving. It puts the engine, gearbox and suspension into sportier calibrations.The Sport is available with a choic e of three diesel engines, including the mid-range SDV6 featured here, or a flagship version with a supercharged V8 petrol.
Skoda has renewed virtually its entire model range in the past few months, including a brand new supermini called Rapid and an all-new version of the highly regarded
Octavia.The revised Superb remains the flagship model for the brand. As always, its unique selling proposition is the performance, space and practicality of a full-size family or business car but with the fuel economy of a much smaller model.No model encapsulates this philosophy more convincingly than the Superb TDI 125 wagon. At 4833mm in length it’s an undeniably large car (a massive 603 litres of loadspace, or 1835 litres with the seats folded down). The 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine pulls off the neat trick of providing similar torque to a petrol V6, yet can also be as frugal as a city car.A recent facelift for Superb has brought new front and rear styling, including LED lighting at the back. TDI 125 wagon features leather upholstery, heated seats front and rear, satellite navigation, powered tailgate and 18-inch alloy wheels.
These days, the term sports utility vehicle (SUV) is not necessarily synonymous with four-wheel drive. The SUV is the single most popular type of vehicle in
the passenger-car market and many makers now offer two-wheel drive models.Not Subaru. Its unique selling proposition has always been four-wheel drive and it argues that an SUV should have genuine off-road ability. Thus, all variants of its new Forester have the brand’s signature “symmetrical all-wheel drive,” including a pushbutton X-Mode that configures the powertrain for off-road work.The Forester Premium also features Subaru’s groundbreaking EyeSight active safety system. Twin cameras mounted inside the windscreen produce a three-dimensional image of the road ahead, which EyeSight analyses for potential danger. It’s used to provide everything from adaptive cruise control, which keeps you the correct distance from the car in front, to lane-departure warning to autonomous braking if a collision seems imminent.Other standard equipment on the Premium includes keyless entry/start, satellite navigation and a powered tailgate.
SUBARU FORESTER PREMIUM
SPECIFICATIONS
Engine: 2.5-litre petrol fourPower: 126kWTorque: 235NmFuel consumption: 8.1 litres per 100kmPrice: $54,990
19NBR SHOWROOM AUTUMN 2014 WHAT’S HOT
You get what you pay for. And what you don’t.
Admired for their sophisticated styling and dynamic performance, the Audi A4 and Audi A5 Sportback are already two impressive vehicles. When you add $10,900 worth of extras for no extra cost, they become well and truly outstanding. Free upgrades include:
an athletic S line sport package MMI Navigation Plus reversing camera 19” alloy wheels
This means you can drive away in an upgraded Audi A4 from just $75,400, or an upgraded Audi A5 Sportback for just $86,300. Contact your local Audi dealer to book a test drive, or visit audi.co.nz to find out more.
The Audi A4 and A5 Sportback, now with complimentary upgrades worth $10,900.
Available on the Audi A4 2.0 quattro S tronic Sedan/Avant and the Audi A5 Sportback 2.0 TFSI quattro S tronic while stocks last. Prices exclude on-road costs.
SPECIFICATIONS
Engine: 1.6-litre petrol four-cylinderPower: 88kWTorque: 156NmFuel consumption: 5.8 litres per 100kmPrice: $32,990
Suzuki has entered the sports utility vehicle (SUV) mainstream with the all-new S-Cross. Long a proponent of specialist four-wheel drive vehicles, the Japanese maker is now keen to tap into the volume potential of the crossover market, catering for buyers who want the character of a four-wheel drive but all of the comfort and refinement of a regular road car.The S-Cross is a five-seat wagon with high equipment levels in Limited specification: dual-zone climate air conditioning, satellite navigation and automatic high-intensity discharge headlights.Suzuki remains committed to four-wheel drive technology: the S-Cross iAWD models feature a new system called Allgrip, which works on-demand or can be locked into a 50/50 torque split on low traction surfaces. Allgrip also brings benefits for on-road driving: when the driver selects sport mode, it apportions 20% more torque to the rear wheels for a sportier cornering feel.However, Suzuki has also acknowledged that many modern SUV buyers do not necessarily need or want four-wheel drive. The S-Cross is also available with front-drive only – including the flagship Limited model featured here.
SUZUKI S-CROSS LIMITED
20 WHAT’S HOT NBR SHOWROOM AUTUMN 2014
F IRST CLASS FUN.
SUB/
PR/6
412A
Being sophisticated doesn’t mean you can’t have fun. With all-new premium styling and
the superior performance you’d expect from a WRX, this model’s a whole new class of fun.
Completely reengineered with superb handling, combined with Subaru’s legendary
All Wheel Drive and a new 2.0 litre Direct Injection Turbocharged Boxer Engine, the 2015
WRX will have you on the edge of your saddle. Priced from only $48,990 RRP. To find out
more, call 0800 SUBARU or visit us online at subaru.co.nz
There are few cars more thrilling than a Lamborghini Aventador – except perhaps an Aventador sans roof.The Aventador LP700-4 roadster is the current star of the Lamborghini lineup. As with its hard-top sibling, it boasts cutting-edge carbon-fibre construction, a new V12 engine and super-fast-shifting ISR (Independent Shifting Rod) transmission, with full-time four-wheel drive.One of the key technical features of the Aventador is its pushrod suspension – a similar design to that used in top-level motorsport, seldom seen on a road car.The interior is inspired by the world of aviation, with a large red switch serving as a starter button and a TFT screen housing the main instrument panel.
Lamborghini is now very much a global brand, with 129 dealers
in 46 countries. Sales were up from 2083 to 2121 cars
in 2013. New Zealand punches well above its weight: for example, of 29 right-hand drive Aventador Anniversario
models produced last year to celebrate the marque’s
half-century, three reside here.
LAMBORGHINI AVENTADOR LP 700-4 ROADSTER
SPECIFICATIONS
Engine: 6.5-litre petrol V12Power: 515kWTorque: 690NmFuel consumption: 16.0 litres per 100kmPrice: $715,000
