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Australian New Car Buyer Magazine Issue #57 - June 2021 (Digital)

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Issue #57 - June 2021

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100 Articles

Australian New Car& SUV Buyer's Guide

After lurking on the fringes for a couple of decades now, electric vehicles will, without doubt, become affordable, mainstream transport over the next few years. In this issue, we test several EVs, including the new MG ZS, which at $43,990 drive away is the cheapest EV model on the market. That will soon change, however, and within a few years you’ll be able to buy an EV for less than $30,000. One reason why EV sales have been slow in Australia is the absence of government financial incentives for buyers. In the UK, the government gives you a rebate of around $6000, and in Europe and the US EV buyers also get generous incentives. The ALP recently announced a rebate scheme for EVs if it wins the next federal election.…

Australian New Car& SUV Buyer's Guide

After lurking on the fringes for a couple of decades now, electric vehicles will, without doubt, become affordable, mainstream transport over the next few years. In this issue, we test several EVs, including the new MG ZS, which at $43,990 drive away is the cheapest EV model on the market. That will soon change, however, and within a few years you’ll be able to buy an EV for less than $30,000. One reason why EV sales have been slow in Australia is the absence of government financial incentives for buyers. In the UK, the government gives you a rebate of around $6000, and in Europe and the US EV buyers also get generous incentives. The ALP recently announced a rebate scheme for EVs if it wins the next federal election. However at state level,…

JOSHUA DOWLING Joshua Dowling is the National Motoring Editor at drive.com.au and a World Car of the Year judge. Joshua is renowned for his consumer-first approach and you can also read his regular rants on Twitter: @JoshuaDowling. In this issue, he tests the MG ZS EV and Toyota Yaris Cross. JOHN CAREY John is a former editor of Overlander, a contributor to Wheels magazine where he is a Car of the Year judge, and publications in the USA and UK. He lives in Bergamo, Italy, and covers new model launches for us from Europe. BYRON MATHIOUDAKIS Byron is a car tragic. He claims that a dream as a toddler of driving an Austin A35 sealed his fate. Byron writes for goauto.com. au and Wheels, where he is a judge on…

JOSHUA DOWLING Joshua Dowling is the National Motoring Editor at drive.com.au and a World Car of the Year judge. Joshua is renowned for his consumer-first approach and you can also read his regular rants on Twitter: @JoshuaDowling. In this issue, he tests the MG ZS EV and Toyota Yaris Cross. JOHN CAREY John is a former editor of Overlander, a contributor to Wheels magazine where he is a Car of the Year judge, and publications in the USA and UK. He lives in Bergamo, Italy, and covers new model launches for us from Europe. BYRON MATHIOUDAKIS Byron is a car tragic. He claims that a dream as a toddler of driving an Austin A35 sealed his fate. Byron writes for goauto.com. au and Wheels, where he is a judge on Car of the Year. He particularly…

Our piggybank indicates a car that we think represents good value for money against the others in its class. It may not necessarily be the cheapest, but taking into account factors like standard equipment, safety, the way it drives, resale values and quality, it shapes up as a good deal. A capital S indicates a car that scores five stars out of five for occupant protection in ANCAP crash tests and has stability control plus six airbags as standard or as reasonably priced options. You can get full details for individual cars, including recently introduced child-protection ratings for most models, at ancap.com.au If you’re after a safe, practical car in which to carry the kids, look for this symbol. We’ve taken into account things like its ANCAP score, safety features…

Our piggybank indicates a car that we think represents good value for money against the others in its class. It may not necessarily be the cheapest, but taking into account factors like standard equipment, safety, the way it drives, resale values and quality, it shapes up as a good deal. A capital S indicates a car that scores five stars out of five for occupant protection in ANCAP crash tests and has stability control plus six airbags as standard or as reasonably priced options. You can get full details for individual cars, including recently introduced child-protection ratings for most models, at ancap.com.au If you’re after a safe, practical car in which to carry the kids, look for this symbol. We’ve taken into account things like its ANCAP score, safety features such as…

REDBOOK VALUATIONS

In Australian New Car Buyer, we include trade-in values for every model in our Showroom section. These are provided to us by Redbook, Australia’s leading authority on used car values. Each model we test includes three- and five-year retained values, expressed as a percentage. These are based on what the wholesale price — ie, the price that a dealer would pay for the car — would be for a car in average condition with average kilometres for its age. You’ll find Redbook’s three- and five-year retained values in the Spex box. Typically, cars with the best retained values show 55%-60% after three years, and 40-something percent after five years. The cars nobody wants are worth that after three years, and 20-something percent after five. When you’re selling your car privately,…

REDBOOK VALUATIONS

In Australian New Car Buyer, we include trade-in values for every model in our Showroom section. These are provided to us by Redbook, Australia’s leading authority on used car values. Each model we test includes three- and five-year retained values, expressed as a percentage. These are based on what the wholesale price — ie, the price that a dealer would pay for the car — would be for a car in average condition with average kilometres for its age. You’ll find Redbook’s three- and five-year retained values in the Spex box. Typically, cars with the best retained values show 55%-60% after three years, and 40-something percent after five years. The cars nobody wants are worth that after three years, and 20-something percent after five. When you’re selling your car privately, trading it in…

ALFA ROMEO 8 Alfa Romeo Giulia 9 Alfa Romeo Stelvio ASTON MARTIN 10 Aston Martin Vantage AUDI 11 Audi A1 12 Audi A4 13 Audi A5/S5 14 Audi RS5 15 Audi A6 16 Audi Q3 17 Audi Q5 18 Audi Q7 19 Audi Q8 BENTLEY 20 Bentley Continental 21 Bentley Bentayga BMW 22 BMW 1 Series 23 BMW M2 24 BMW 3 Series 25 BMW 5 Series 26 BMW X1 27 BMW X3 28 BMW X5 29 BMW X7 FERRARI 30 Ferrari Roma 31 Ferrari 812 FORD 32 Ford Fiesta ST 33 Ford Focus 34 Ford Puma 35 Ford Escape 36 Ford Mustang GENESIS 37 Genesis G70 HONDA 38 Honda HR-V 39 Honda Civic 40 Honda Civic Type R 41 Honda CRV HYUNDAI 42 Hyundai i30 43 Hyundai i30N 44…

ALFA ROMEO 8 Alfa Romeo Giulia 9 Alfa Romeo Stelvio ASTON MARTIN 10 Aston Martin Vantage AUDI 11 Audi A1 12 Audi A4 13 Audi A5/S5 14 Audi RS5 15 Audi A6 16 Audi Q3 17 Audi Q5 18 Audi Q7 19 Audi Q8 BENTLEY 20 Bentley Continental 21 Bentley Bentayga BMW 22 BMW 1 Series 23 BMW M2 24 BMW 3 Series 25 BMW 5 Series 26 BMW X1 27 BMW X3 28 BMW X5 29 BMW X7 FERRARI 30 Ferrari Roma 31 Ferrari 812 FORD 32 Ford Fiesta ST 33 Ford Focus 34 Ford Puma 35 Ford Escape 36 Ford Mustang GENESIS 37 Genesis G70 HONDA 38 Honda HR-V 39 Honda Civic 40 Honda Civic Type R 41 Honda CRV HYUNDAI 42 Hyundai i30 43 Hyundai i30N 44 Hyundai Ioniq 45 Hyundai Venue 46 Hyundai Kona 47 Hyundai Kona Electric 48 Hyundai Tucson 49 Hyundai Santa Fe 50 Hyundai Palisade JAGUAR 51 Jaguar I-Pace 52 Jaguar E-Pace 53 Jaguar F-Pace KIA 54 Kia Stinger 55 Kia Rio 56 Kia Cerato, Picanto 57 Kia Carnival 58 Kia Stonic 59 Kia Seltos 60 Kia Sportage 61 Kia Sorento LAND ROVER 62 Discovery Sport LEXUS 63 Lexus IS 64 Lexus UX 65…

ALFA ROMEO GIULIA FROM $63,950

Alfa Romeo’s Giulia is aggressively priced and generously equipped. It deserves rivals. Start money is $63,950 for the 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbopetrol Giulia Sport, with 147kW of power and an eight-speed automatic, in a rear-wheel drive layout. Giulia Veloce, at $71,450, looks like the value/performance/equipment sweet spot in the Giulia line-up. It gets a 206kW version of the 2.0-litre turbopetrol engine, plus premium performance hardware including adjustable suspension, a limited slip rear differential and exquisite traditional Alfa five-hole 19-inch alloy wheels. Alfa also needs to make a heroic, forceful statement of intent with the Giulia, and that it certainly does with the Quadrifoglio, priced at $138,950. Up against Audi’s RS5, BMW’s M3 and the Mercedes AMG C 63 S, the Quadrifolglio (or four-leaf clover, Alfa’s historic racing symbol) boasts suitably ballistic…

ALFA ROMEO GIULIA FROM $63,950

ALFA ROMEO STELVIO FROM $65,900

Remember when there was no such thing as a beautiful SUV? SUVs were spacious, sure. And capable. Even occasionally sporty. But they were never, ever beautiful. But clearly something has changed, because we defy anyone to gaze upon Alfa Romeo’s new Stelvio and describe it as anything but stunning. The Italian brand’s first-ever SUV can be had with a choice of a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol-producing 149kW and 330Nm, or a 2.2-litre turbodiesel that generates 154kW and 470Nm, both with an eight-speed auto and all-wheel drive. The petrol model kicks off at $65,900 and the turbodiesel at $67,900. Standard equipment includes leather, 19-inch alloys and a power tailgate. A 2.0-litre petrol Ti model, with a 206kW/400Nm engine, is $78,900. The headline-stealing act here is the thumping 2.9-litre bi-turbo petrol V6 that…

ALFA ROMEO STELVIO FROM $65,900

ALFA ROMEO GIULIA FROM $63,950

Alfa Romeo’s Giulia is aggressively priced and generously equipped. It deserves rivals. Start money is $63,950 for the 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbopetrol Giulia Sport, with 147kW of power and an eight-speed automatic, in a rear-wheel drive layout. Giulia Veloce, at $71,450, looks like the value/performance/equipment sweet spot in the Giulia line-up. It gets a 206kW version of the 2.0-litre turbopetrol engine, plus premium performance hardware including adjustable suspension, a limited slip rear differential and exquisite traditional Alfa five-hole 19-inch alloy wheels. Alfa also needs to make a heroic, forceful statement of intent with the Giulia, and that it certainly does with the Quadrifoglio, priced at $138,950. Up against Audi’s RS5, BMW’s M3 and the Mercedes AMG C 63 S, the Quadrifolglio (or four-leaf clover, Alfa’s historic racing symbol) boasts suitably ballistic numbers from a “Ferrari-inspired”…

ALFA ROMEO GIULIA FROM $63,950

ALFA ROMEO STELVIO FROM $65,900

Remember when there was no such thing as a beautiful SUV? SUVs were spacious, sure. And capable. Even occasionally sporty. But they were never, ever beautiful. But clearly something has changed, because we defy anyone to gaze upon Alfa Romeo’s new Stelvio and describe it as anything but stunning. The Italian brand’s first-ever SUV can be had with a choice of a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol-producing 149kW and 330Nm, or a 2.2-litre turbodiesel that generates 154kW and 470Nm, both with an eight-speed auto and all-wheel drive. The petrol model kicks off at $65,900 and the turbodiesel at $67,900. Standard equipment includes leather, 19-inch alloys and a power tailgate. A 2.0-litre petrol Ti model, with a 206kW/400Nm engine, is $78,900. The headline-stealing act here is the thumping 2.9-litre bi-turbo petrol V6 that lives exclusively in the performance-focused Quadrifoglio…

ALFA ROMEO STELVIO FROM $65,900

ASTON MARTIN VANTAGE FROM $278,900

Even Aston Martin admits that for most of existence it has made Russian dolls – one car in several different sizes. But all that changed with the 2017 DB11 grand tourer, the first product of a range renewal plan, and is confirmed by the Vantage. Vantage was launched with a price rise of around $80,000, pitching against the Audi R8 RWS, Porsche 911 GTS and Mercedes-AMG GT S – the best sub-Ferrari performers money can buy. Vantage can hold its head up in this crowd. It has nothing in common with its predecessor but shares a version of Aston’s new generation underpinnings. Like DB11, it uses electronic architecture and a V8 engine sourced from Daimler, maker of Mercedes. The eight-speed manual coupe is $278,900; the eight-speed auto coupe is $299,500.…

ASTON MARTIN VANTAGE FROM $278,900

AUDI A1 FROM $32,750

The base model Audi A1 30 TFSi, priced at $32,750, is a redecorated Volkswagen Polo. Audi is a subsidiary brand of VW. Nearly all of the hardware, including the body, running gear and 85kW 1.0-litre three cylinder turbopetrol/seven speed dual clutch drivetrain, is the same; the sheetmetal and interior design are different. Oh, and the price. The Polo 85TSi Comfortline costs $23,390 – that’s $8960, or nearly 30 percent less, than the Audi. We’re testing the mid-spec 35 TFSi, with a 110kW 1.5-litre turbopetrol four/seven-speed dual clutch drivetrain, a combination not available in the Polo. It costs $35,290. The 40 TFSi, with a 147kW 2.0-litre turbopetrol four, is $46,450. Pennies have obviously been pinched in the A1, notably in the absence of Audi’s signature quality materials and trim, replaced by…

AUDI A1 FROM $32,750

ASTON MARTIN VANTAGE FROM $278,900

Even Aston Martin admits that for most of existence it has made Russian dolls – one car in several different sizes. But all that changed with the 2017 DB11 grand tourer, the first product of a range renewal plan, and is confirmed by the Vantage. Vantage was launched with a price rise of around $80,000, pitching against the Audi R8 RWS, Porsche 911 GTS and Mercedes-AMG GT S – the best sub-Ferrari performers money can buy. Vantage can hold its head up in this crowd. It has nothing in common with its predecessor but shares a version of Aston’s new generation underpinnings. Like DB11, it uses electronic architecture and a V8 engine sourced from Daimler, maker of Mercedes. The eight-speed manual coupe is $278,900; the eight-speed auto coupe is $299,500. The auto roadster…

ASTON MARTIN VANTAGE FROM $278,900

AUDI A4 FROM $56,100

Audi’s A4 sedan range opens with two front-wheel-drive models. The 35TFSi ($56,100) runs the same 110kW 2.0-litre turbopetrol/seven-speed dualclutch S-Tronic drivetrain used in the VW Golf.S-Line is $59,900. Top of the range, and the variant that has usually been the pick of the A4s to drive, is the 183kW 2.0-litre turbopetrol 45TFSi quattro, at $68,500 for the sedan and $71,000 for the Avant wagon. The 45TFSi quattro allroad, a faux SUV that’s basically a jacked up Avant with more clearance, is $72,600 and the 40TDi quattro allroad, with a 140kW/400Nm 2.0-litre turbodiesel, is $70,600. The S4 quattro sedan, with a 260kW 3.0-litre turbopetrol, is $99,500; the Avant is $102,000. The RS4 Avant, with a 331kW/600Nm 2.9-litre twin turbo V6/eight speed auto and a claimed 0-100km/h time of just 4.1 seconds,…

AUDI A4 FROM $56,100

AUDI A1 FROM $32,750

The base model Audi A1 30 TFSi, priced at $32,750, is a redecorated Volkswagen Polo. Audi is a subsidiary brand of VW. Nearly all of the hardware, including the body, running gear and 85kW 1.0-litre three cylinder turbopetrol/seven speed dual clutch drivetrain, is the same; the sheetmetal and interior design are different. Oh, and the price. The Polo 85TSi Comfortline costs $23,390 – that’s $8960, or nearly 30 percent less, than the Audi. We’re testing the mid-spec 35 TFSi, with a 110kW 1.5-litre turbopetrol four/seven-speed dual clutch drivetrain, a combination not available in the Polo. It costs $35,290. The 40 TFSi, with a 147kW 2.0-litre turbopetrol four, is $46,450. Pennies have obviously been pinched in the A1, notably in the absence of Audi’s signature quality materials and trim, replaced by hard, cheap plastics on many…

AUDI A1 FROM $32,750

AUDI A4 FROM $56,100

Audi’s A4 sedan range opens with two front-wheel-drive models. The 35TFSi ($56,100) runs the same 110kW 2.0-litre turbopetrol/seven-speed dualclutch S-Tronic drivetrain used in the VW Golf.S-Line is $59,900. Top of the range, and the variant that has usually been the pick of the A4s to drive, is the 183kW 2.0-litre turbopetrol 45TFSi quattro, at $68,500 for the sedan and $71,000 for the Avant wagon. The 45TFSi quattro allroad, a faux SUV that’s basically a jacked up Avant with more clearance, is $72,600 and the 40TDi quattro allroad, with a 140kW/400Nm 2.0-litre turbodiesel, is $70,600. The S4 quattro sedan, with a 260kW 3.0-litre turbopetrol, is $99,500; the Avant is $102,000. The RS4 Avant, with a 331kW/600Nm 2.9-litre twin turbo V6/eight speed auto and a claimed 0-100km/h time of just 4.1 seconds, is priced at $147,900. This…

AUDI A4 FROM $56,100

AUDI A5/S5 FROM $71,900

Since 2007, few cars have been as seductive standing still as the Audi A5 Coupe. Now, in (some say too timidly) a redesigned and re-engineered second-generation guise, can it captivate on the move, too? Based on the medium-sized A4 range, the swoopy two-door (and four door Sportback) four-seater grand tourer grows ever so slightly, paying palpable cabin space dividends. It’s also lighter yet stronger, promising raised driving dynamics and refinement levels. The least-expensive model is the 2.0 40TFSI S-Line, priced at $71,900 for the coupe and Sportback. A5 Cabriolet is priced at $85,800. Far from being sparsely equipped, A5 includes autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, parking sensors, a reverse camera, satellite navigation, adaptive matrix LED headlights, digital radio, electrically adjustable front seats, leather upholstery, three-zone climate control and 19-inch alloys.…

AUDI A5/S5 FROM $71,900

AUDI RS5 FROM $150,900

The RS5 sits at the top of Audi’s A5 coupe line-up. In typical Audi RS fashion, this car goes softly, but carries a very big stick. It features the 2.9-litre, twin turbo V6, developed with Porsche (where it’s also found in the Panamera and new Cayenne); VW’s rigid, lightweight MLB platform architecture; five-link suspension with adaptive, adjustable dampers at both ends and an eight-speed automatic, mated to to Audi’s signature quattro all wheel drive system, with a mechanical centre differential, and active torque vectoring between the rear wheels. RS5 is available as a two door coupe and a five door Sportback, both priced at $150,900. Sliding into the luxurious, supportive, Nappa leather sports driver’s seat, you face Audi’s virtual cockpit, with configurable digital instruments, including specific RS displays for engine…

AUDI RS5 FROM $150,900

AUDI A5/S5 FROM $71,900

Since 2007, few cars have been as seductive standing still as the Audi A5 Coupe. Now, in (some say too timidly) a redesigned and re-engineered second-generation guise, can it captivate on the move, too? Based on the medium-sized A4 range, the swoopy two-door (and four door Sportback) four-seater grand tourer grows ever so slightly, paying palpable cabin space dividends. It’s also lighter yet stronger, promising raised driving dynamics and refinement levels. The least-expensive model is the 2.0 40TFSI S-Line, priced at $71,900 for the coupe and Sportback. A5 Cabriolet is priced at $85,800. Far from being sparsely equipped, A5 includes autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, parking sensors, a reverse camera, satellite navigation, adaptive matrix LED headlights, digital radio, electrically adjustable front seats, leather upholstery, three-zone climate control and 19-inch alloys. Also standard is an electronic…

AUDI A5/S5 FROM $71,900

AUDI RS5 FROM $150,900

The RS5 sits at the top of Audi’s A5 coupe line-up. In typical Audi RS fashion, this car goes softly, but carries a very big stick. It features the 2.9-litre, twin turbo V6, developed with Porsche (where it’s also found in the Panamera and new Cayenne); VW’s rigid, lightweight MLB platform architecture; five-link suspension with adaptive, adjustable dampers at both ends and an eight-speed automatic, mated to to Audi’s signature quattro all wheel drive system, with a mechanical centre differential, and active torque vectoring between the rear wheels. RS5 is available as a two door coupe and a five door Sportback, both priced at $150,900. Sliding into the luxurious, supportive, Nappa leather sports driver’s seat, you face Audi’s virtual cockpit, with configurable digital instruments, including specific RS displays for engine power and torque,…

AUDI RS5 FROM $150,900

AUDI A6 FROM $84,900

Audi’s A6 40 TFSI starts from $84,900, powered by a 140kW/320Nm 2.0-litre turbopetrol engine matched to a seven-speed twin clutch automatic gearbox and front-wheel-drive. A6 45 TFSI quattro, priced from $96,900, gets a 180kW/370Nm variant with the same transmission. S Line is $106,000. The A6 55 TFSI S Line, tested here and priced from $116,000, is powered by a 250kW/500Nm turbopetrol V6. The A6 Allroad quattro faux SUV, with a 183kW/600Nm 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel, is $109,200. Top of the range RS6 Avant wagon, with a 441kW/800Nm twin turbo 4.0-litre V8, is $216,000. The dash is dominated by two large touchscreens (10.1- and 8.6-inch) that control infotainment and air-conditioning systems. In front of the driver is Audi’s 12.3-inch “virtual cockpit” display which can be viewed in several modes. Thanks to…

AUDI A6 FROM $84,900

AUDI Q3 FROM $46,950

The third generation Audi Q3 might be labelled an SUV but as with many of its peers it could easily be described as a high-riding hatchback. It delivers the usual SUV attributes: taller driving position, better vision around the car, and a higher “hip point”, making it easier to get in and out. All this in a package that fits in the same size parking space as a Toyota Corolla. Little wonder compact SUVs are so popular. Prices start from $46,950 plus on-road costs for the 35 TFSi, powered by a carryover 1.4-litre turbo four-cylinder petrol engine (110kW/250Nm) matched to a six-speed S-tronic twin clutch auto driving the front wheels. The coupe-style S Line Sportback, with the same drivetrain, starts at $50,450. The 40TFSi, with a 132kW 2.0-litre turbopetrol/seven-speed S-tronic/quattro…

AUDI Q3 FROM $46,950

AUDI A6 FROM $84,900

Audi’s A6 40 TFSI starts from $84,900, powered by a 140kW/320Nm 2.0-litre turbopetrol engine matched to a seven-speed twin clutch automatic gearbox and front-wheel-drive. A6 45 TFSI quattro, priced from $96,900, gets a 180kW/370Nm variant with the same transmission. S Line is $106,000. The A6 55 TFSI S Line, tested here and priced from $116,000, is powered by a 250kW/500Nm turbopetrol V6. The A6 Allroad quattro faux SUV, with a 183kW/600Nm 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel, is $109,200. Top of the range RS6 Avant wagon, with a 441kW/800Nm twin turbo 4.0-litre V8, is $216,000. The dash is dominated by two large touchscreens (10.1- and 8.6-inch) that control infotainment and air-conditioning systems. In front of the driver is Audi’s 12.3-inch “virtual cockpit” display which can be viewed in several modes. Thanks to a permanent phone connection via an embedded SIM…

AUDI A6 FROM $84,900

AUDI Q5 FROM $68,900

Today’s Audi Q5 might seem barely changed since the original in 2009, but there’s exciting new stuff underneath its almost the same skin. Kicking off from $68,900 for the 150kW/400Nm 2.0-litre 40 TDI diesel quattro and $69,900 for the 183kW/370Nm 2.0-litre 45 TFSI petrol quattro, the second generation Q5 features mild hybrid drivetrains, a significantly lighter yet stronger body than before, the adoption of sophisticated five-link independent suspension (with optional air springs for a smooth, supple ride — something the previous Q5 struggled with) and enough driver-assist safety to make a Volvo engineer blush. Clean surfaces, obsessive quality, precision shutlines — all are expected Audi hallmarks, yet the Q5 ups the ante anyway with a spacious and airy cabin boasting designer textures, exquisite materials, cocooning silence and exceptional tactility. Thankfully…

AUDI Q5 FROM $68,900

AUDI Q3 FROM $46,950

The third generation Audi Q3 might be labelled an SUV but as with many of its peers it could easily be described as a high-riding hatchback. It delivers the usual SUV attributes: taller driving position, better vision around the car, and a higher “hip point”, making it easier to get in and out. All this in a package that fits in the same size parking space as a Toyota Corolla. Little wonder compact SUVs are so popular. Prices start from $46,950 plus on-road costs for the 35 TFSi, powered by a carryover 1.4-litre turbo four-cylinder petrol engine (110kW/250Nm) matched to a six-speed S-tronic twin clutch auto driving the front wheels. The coupe-style S Line Sportback, with the same drivetrain, starts at $50,450. The 40TFSi, with a 132kW 2.0-litre turbopetrol/seven-speed S-tronic/quattro all-wheel drivetrain, is $54,450, or…

AUDI Q3 FROM $46,950

AUDI Q7 FROM $103,300

Audi’s second-generation Q7 is a huge improvement over the first. That model’s whalelike scale made it a daunting vehicle to drive in the city and its high weight meant it had the handling agility of a humpback. Audi’s engineers found ways to shed around 300kg without affecting strength or compromising occupant safety. The Q7 is now among the more pleasant and capable large premium SUVs to drive. There’s little steering feel, a trait common to the breed, but the Audi copes gracefully with corners, ride comfort is very good (thanks to adjustable air suspension) and noise, vibration and harshness levels are very low. The Q7 doesn’t pretend to be a sportster and this is to its credit. Audi’s engineers offer the 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel 45TDi with 170kW/500Nm, priced at $103,300,…

AUDI Q7 FROM $103,300

AUDI Q5 FROM $68,900

Today’s Audi Q5 might seem barely changed since the original in 2009, but there’s exciting new stuff underneath its almost the same skin. Kicking off from $68,900 for the 150kW/400Nm 2.0-litre 40 TDI diesel quattro and $69,900 for the 183kW/370Nm 2.0-litre 45 TFSI petrol quattro, the second generation Q5 features mild hybrid drivetrains, a significantly lighter yet stronger body than before, the adoption of sophisticated five-link independent suspension (with optional air springs for a smooth, supple ride — something the previous Q5 struggled with) and enough driver-assist safety to make a Volvo engineer blush. Clean surfaces, obsessive quality, precision shutlines — all are expected Audi hallmarks, yet the Q5 ups the ante anyway with a spacious and airy cabin boasting designer textures, exquisite materials, cocooning silence and exceptional tactility. Thankfully there is actual…

AUDI Q5 FROM $68,900

AUDI Q8 FROM $129,600

Audi’s five seater Q8 is based on the seven-seater Q7, but with a sleeker, sharper profile, a coupe roofline, a few dimensional adjustments and whopper 21 inch alloy wheels to give it a sportier stance. The Q8 55TFSi quattro, priced at $130,200, runs a 3.0-litre V6 turbopetrol engine with 250kW of power and 500Nm of torque, matched with an eight-speed automatic and all wheel drive. It’s a mild hybrid, with 48-volt electrics, a lithium ion battery and a starter motor that can also give the engine a high voltage boost of up to 6kW of power and 60Nm of torque, for five seconds, when you plant the accelerator. The engine is also switched off and decoupled from the transmission in “coasting” mode, on a light throttle between 55-160km/h, yielding fuel…

AUDI Q8 FROM $129,600

AUDI Q7 FROM $103,300

Audi’s second-generation Q7 is a huge improvement over the first. That model’s whalelike scale made it a daunting vehicle to drive in the city and its high weight meant it had the handling agility of a humpback. Audi’s engineers found ways to shed around 300kg without affecting strength or compromising occupant safety. The Q7 is now among the more pleasant and capable large premium SUVs to drive. There’s little steering feel, a trait common to the breed, but the Audi copes gracefully with corners, ride comfort is very good (thanks to adjustable air suspension) and noise, vibration and harshness levels are very low. The Q7 doesn’t pretend to be a sportster and this is to its credit. Audi’s engineers offer the 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel 45TDi with 170kW/500Nm, priced at $103,300, or the 210kW/600Nm 50TDi, priced…

AUDI Q7 FROM $103,300

BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GT FROM $408,900

The Bentley Continental GT costs $408,900 for the coupe and $450,100 for the convertible. But that, folks, is just the deposit. If you want the James Bond-style rotating touchscreen in the dash, which at the press of a button spins to reveal old-school gauges or a blank piece of timber, that’ll cost an extra $12,300. Advanced safety features that are standard on a new Toyota Corolla are split into two technology packs that cost $10,300 or $16,200. For the complete safety suite buyers need to shell out $26,500 for both -- as much as the aforementioned Corolla. Bentley says buyers prefer to have the choice of leather and woodgrain at no extra charge rather than advanced safety tech as standard. Then again, what else can they say when the cheapest…

BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GT FROM $408,900

AUDI Q8 FROM $129,600

Audi’s five seater Q8 is based on the seven-seater Q7, but with a sleeker, sharper profile, a coupe roofline, a few dimensional adjustments and whopper 21 inch alloy wheels to give it a sportier stance. The Q8 55TFSi quattro, priced at $130,200, runs a 3.0-litre V6 turbopetrol engine with 250kW of power and 500Nm of torque, matched with an eight-speed automatic and all wheel drive. It’s a mild hybrid, with 48-volt electrics, a lithium ion battery and a starter motor that can also give the engine a high voltage boost of up to 6kW of power and 60Nm of torque, for five seconds, when you plant the accelerator. The engine is also switched off and decoupled from the transmission in “coasting” mode, on a light throttle between 55-160km/h, yielding fuel efficiency gains…

AUDI Q8 FROM $129,600

BENTLEY BENTAYGA FROM $364,800

If you need proof the world has gone mad for SUVs, look no further. Bentley’s Bentayga is one of the most extreme and expensive of the breed. The Bentayga is based on the Audi Q7/Q8, with Bentley acquired by Germany’s Volkswagen-Audi Group in 1998. The range opens with the 404kW 4.0-litre twin turbopetrol V8 Sport, at $364,800. Audi’s top of the range RS Q8, with the same engine tuned for 441kW, costs $208,500. The Bentayga buyer pays an extra $156,300 for the Bentley badge. Unique to Bentayga is a 467kW/900Nm, 6.0-litre twin turbopetrol W12 Speed, priced at $501,800. A Breitling clock on the dash costs an extra $8122. There is already a digital clock in the car’s instrument display. Bentley claims Breitling can only build four of these particular in-car…

BENTLEY BENTAYGA FROM $364,800

BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GT FROM $408,900

The Bentley Continental GT costs $408,900 for the coupe and $450,100 for the convertible. But that, folks, is just the deposit. If you want the James Bond-style rotating touchscreen in the dash, which at the press of a button spins to reveal old-school gauges or a blank piece of timber, that’ll cost an extra $12,300. Advanced safety features that are standard on a new Toyota Corolla are split into two technology packs that cost $10,300 or $16,200. For the complete safety suite buyers need to shell out $26,500 for both -- as much as the aforementioned Corolla. Bentley says buyers prefer to have the choice of leather and woodgrain at no extra charge rather than advanced safety tech as standard. Then again, what else can they say when the cheapest car in sister brand Volkswagen’s…

BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GT FROM $408,900

BMW 1 SERIES FROM $47,900

BMW’s 2011-2019 One Series was the last rear wheel drive hatchback on the market. The 2021 118i, tested here, uses the same body architecture and front wheel drivetrain as the five door Mini (a brand owned by BMW) and the X1/X2 small SUVs. It’s priced at $47,900. That’s big money for a 1.5-litre hatchback with a mere 103kW of power. A Toyota Corolla, with 125kW up front, can be had for around $25,000. The Mini Cooper five door – same car, different box, remember – costs around $34,000. The 128ti, also front-wheel drive, with a 180kW 2.0-litre turbopetrol, is $56,900. The M135i xDrive Pure, at $65,900, runs a 225kW 2.0-litre turbopetrol, matched with an all-wheel drivetrain. Another $5000 buys more frills. Climb into the 118i and your money appears well…

BMW 1 SERIES FROM $47,900

BENTLEY BENTAYGA FROM $364,800

If you need proof the world has gone mad for SUVs, look no further. Bentley’s Bentayga is one of the most extreme and expensive of the breed. The Bentayga is based on the Audi Q7/Q8, with Bentley acquired by Germany’s Volkswagen-Audi Group in 1998. The range opens with the 404kW 4.0-litre twin turbopetrol V8 Sport, at $364,800. Audi’s top of the range RS Q8, with the same engine tuned for 441kW, costs $208,500. The Bentayga buyer pays an extra $156,300 for the Bentley badge. Unique to Bentayga is a 467kW/900Nm, 6.0-litre twin turbopetrol W12 Speed, priced at $501,800. A Breitling clock on the dash costs an extra $8122. There is already a digital clock in the car’s instrument display. Bentley claims Breitling can only build four of these particular in-car clocks each year. Maybe they’re still…

BENTLEY BENTAYGA FROM $364,800

BMW M2 FROM $102,900

BMW’s M division cars have been somewhat hit and miss in recent years — epic on a track, but not so enjoyable in day-to-day driving, where their overreliance on electronics produces a remote, uninvolving driving experience amplified by artificially weighted steering, constipated twin-clutch gearboxes and a frustrating inability to get power to the ground. Well, BMW has certainly seen and remedied the errors of its ways with the M2. The M2 Competition, tested here is priced at $102,900. A six-speed manual is standard; a seven-speed twin clutch M-DCT gearbox adds $7000. The equipment list is extensive and includes electrically adjustable heated seats, leather/Alcantara upholstery, 12 speaker Harman Kardon audio and adaptive headlights. The M2 is not exactly cheap — the Competition is about $8000 dearer than the Mercedes A45 AMG…

BMW M2 FROM $102,900

BMW 1 SERIES FROM $47,900

BMW’s 2011-2019 One Series was the last rear wheel drive hatchback on the market. The 2021 118i, tested here, uses the same body architecture and front wheel drivetrain as the five door Mini (a brand owned by BMW) and the X1/X2 small SUVs. It’s priced at $47,900. That’s big money for a 1.5-litre hatchback with a mere 103kW of power. A Toyota Corolla, with 125kW up front, can be had for around $25,000. The Mini Cooper five door – same car, different box, remember – costs around $34,000. The 128ti, also front-wheel drive, with a 180kW 2.0-litre turbopetrol, is $56,900. The M135i xDrive Pure, at $65,900, runs a 225kW 2.0-litre turbopetrol, matched with an all-wheel drivetrain. Another $5000 buys more frills. Climb into the 118i and your money appears well spent. There’s no whiff of…

BMW 1 SERIES FROM $47,900

BMW M2 FROM $102,900

BMW’s M division cars have been somewhat hit and miss in recent years — epic on a track, but not so enjoyable in day-to-day driving, where their overreliance on electronics produces a remote, uninvolving driving experience amplified by artificially weighted steering, constipated twin-clutch gearboxes and a frustrating inability to get power to the ground. Well, BMW has certainly seen and remedied the errors of its ways with the M2. The M2 Competition, tested here is priced at $102,900. A six-speed manual is standard; a seven-speed twin clutch M-DCT gearbox adds $7000. The equipment list is extensive and includes electrically adjustable heated seats, leather/Alcantara upholstery, 12 speaker Harman Kardon audio and adaptive headlights. The M2 is not exactly cheap — the Competition is about $8000 dearer than the Mercedes A45 AMG S — but it’s still…

BMW M2 FROM $102,900

BMW 3 SERIES FROM $70,900

BMW 3 Series prices start at $70,900 for the 135kW/300Nm 2.0-litre turbopetrol 320i, with a standard eight-speed automatic. It’s available in M Sport or Luxury Line specification. The 330i sedan is $77,900. The 330i Touring is $81,900. Both are also available in M Sport or Luxury Line trim. Up front is a 2.0-litre turbopetrol with 190kW and 400Nm, sufficient to launch the sedan’s lithe 1433kg to 100km/h in a claimed 5.8 seconds. The 330e plug-in hybrid sedan, with a claimed electric-only range of up to 60km, is $84,900. The M340i xDrive, with BMW’s signature 3.0-litre turbo straight six tuned for 285kW/500Nm, plus all-wheel drive, is $111,900. The poverty pack Pure is $101,900. The 4 Series coupe starts at $71,900 for the 420i; the 430i is $90,900 and the M440i xDrive,…

BMW 3 SERIES FROM $70,900

BMW 3 SERIES FROM $70,900

BMW 3 Series prices start at $70,900 for the 135kW/300Nm 2.0-litre turbopetrol 320i, with a standard eight-speed automatic. It’s available in M Sport or Luxury Line specification. The 330i sedan is $77,900. The 330i Touring is $81,900. Both are also available in M Sport or Luxury Line trim. Up front is a 2.0-litre turbopetrol with 190kW and 400Nm, sufficient to launch the sedan’s lithe 1433kg to 100km/h in a claimed 5.8 seconds. The 330e plug-in hybrid sedan, with a claimed electric-only range of up to 60km, is $84,900. The M340i xDrive, with BMW’s signature 3.0-litre turbo straight six tuned for 285kW/500Nm, plus all-wheel drive, is $111,900. The poverty pack Pure is $101,900. The 4 Series coupe starts at $71,900 for the 420i; the 430i is $90,900 and the M440i xDrive, with the 285kW six, is…

BMW 3 SERIES FROM $70,900

BMW 5 SERIES FROM $99,900

BMW’s seventh-generation 5 Series range opens with the $99,900 520i, with a 135kW/290Nm 2.0-litre turbopetrol four, matched with an eight-speed automatic. At The $119,900 530i, tested here, has a 185kW/350Nm 2.0-litre turbopetrol four. Six cylinder power starts with the $125,900 530d, with a 195kW/620Nm 3.0-litre turbodiesel straight six. The 530e, a 2.0-litre petrol-electric plug-in hybrid that can travel up to 67km on electricity alone, is $122,900. The 390kW/750Nm, 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 M550i xDrive Pure is $139,900, or $154,900 without the Pure tag but with more gear. This model gets an all-wheel drivetrain. The 460kW/750Nm 4.4-litre V8 M5 Competition, also with all-wheel drive, costs $246,900. The 467kW M5 CS is $274,900. Every model in the 5 Series line-up comes standard with the suite of radar- and camera-reliant aids BMW calls Driving…

BMW 5 SERIES FROM $99,900

BMW 5 SERIES FROM $99,900

BMW’s seventh-generation 5 Series range opens with the $99,900 520i, with a 135kW/290Nm 2.0-litre turbopetrol four, matched with an eight-speed automatic. At The $119,900 530i, tested here, has a 185kW/350Nm 2.0-litre turbopetrol four. Six cylinder power starts with the $125,900 530d, with a 195kW/620Nm 3.0-litre turbodiesel straight six. The 530e, a 2.0-litre petrol-electric plug-in hybrid that can travel up to 67km on electricity alone, is $122,900. The 390kW/750Nm, 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 M550i xDrive Pure is $139,900, or $154,900 without the Pure tag but with more gear. This model gets an all-wheel drivetrain. The 460kW/750Nm 4.4-litre V8 M5 Competition, also with all-wheel drive, costs $246,900. The 467kW M5 CS is $274,900. Every model in the 5 Series line-up comes standard with the suite of radar- and camera-reliant aids BMW calls Driving Assistant Plus. Key features include…

BMW 5 SERIES FROM $99,900

BMW X1 FROM $47,900

The second-generation BMW X1 shares much of its core technology, including its basic structure, with the latest versions of the Mini, a brand that is 100 percent owned by BMW. The range opens with the sDrive 18i, at $47,900. sDrive18d is $53,900, sDrive20i is $55,900 and the xDrive25i is $66,900. Popular sDrive versions are front-wheel drive instead of rear-wheel drive. xDrive variants use an all-wheel drivetrain. So the latest X1 may be technically heretical in the eyes of long-term BMW loyalists, but it’s likely that compact SUV buyers will embrace it. The advantages of the new direction are plain to see, especially inside the car. Penned by young, Sydney-born designer Calvin Luk, the second-generation X1 is better proportioned and with the space-efficient crossways engine/front-wheel-drive layout, BMW’s smallest SUV now has…

BMW X1 FROM $47,900

BMW X1 FROM $47,900

The second-generation BMW X1 shares much of its core technology, including its basic structure, with the latest versions of the Mini, a brand that is 100 percent owned by BMW. The range opens with the sDrive 18i, at $47,900. sDrive18d is $53,900, sDrive20i is $55,900 and the xDrive25i is $66,900. Popular sDrive versions are front-wheel drive instead of rear-wheel drive. xDrive variants use an all-wheel drivetrain. So the latest X1 may be technically heretical in the eyes of long-term BMW loyalists, but it’s likely that compact SUV buyers will embrace it. The advantages of the new direction are plain to see, especially inside the car. Penned by young, Sydney-born designer Calvin Luk, the second-generation X1 is better proportioned and with the space-efficient crossways engine/front-wheel-drive layout, BMW’s smallest SUV now has a much more comfortable,…

BMW X1 FROM $47,900

BMW X3 FROM $71,900

With the arrival of the third-generation X3, BMW once again has a competitive player in the premium medium-SUV class. The 2021 X3 has a roomier and much more attractive interior, plus better ride comfort and handling. The X3 range opens at $68,900 with the sDrive 20i. It runs BMW’s base 2.0-litre turbopetrol four, with 135kW of power, matched with an eight-speed automatic and rear-wheel drive. It averages a claimed 7.4L/100km. All-wheel drive variants open with the the $74,900 X3 20d. It has a 140kW 2.0-litre turbodiesel four, claimed to average just 5.7L/100km. The $85,900 X3 30i runs the 2.0-litre turbopetrol four tuned for 185kW, which returns 7.6L/100km, while the $92,900 X3 30d has a 3.0-litre turbodiesel in-line six. It averages a claimed 6.0L/100km. The X3 M40i, priced at $113,900, runs…

BMW X3 FROM $71,900

BMW X5 FROM $104,900

BMW’s first X5, launched in 2000, immediately became the benchmark against which all other SUVs have since been judged. This fourth generation opens with the 170kW/450Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel/eight-speed automatic/all-wheel drive xDrive 25d, priced at $104,900. We’re testing the xDrive 30d, the top selling variant with a 195kW/620Nm 3.0-litre straight six turbodiesel, priced at $121,900. The xDrive 40i, with a 250kW/450Nm turbopetrol six, is $124,900, the xDrive 45e hybrid is $135,900 and the M50i, with a 390kW/750Nm twin turbopetrol 4.4-litre V8 is $157,900, or $142,900 in Pure specification, with the same drivetain but less bling. The hotrod X5 M, with the V8 chipped for 460kW, is $221,900. This model expanded in all directions, notably in width and wheelbase. It’s still a five seater, with a third row option. Serious effort…

BMW X5 FROM $104,900

BMW X3 FROM $71,900

With the arrival of the third-generation X3, BMW once again has a competitive player in the premium medium-SUV class. The 2021 X3 has a roomier and much more attractive interior, plus better ride comfort and handling. The X3 range opens at $68,900 with the sDrive 20i. It runs BMW’s base 2.0-litre turbopetrol four, with 135kW of power, matched with an eight-speed automatic and rear-wheel drive. It averages a claimed 7.4L/100km. All-wheel drive variants open with the the $74,900 X3 20d. It has a 140kW 2.0-litre turbodiesel four, claimed to average just 5.7L/100km. The $85,900 X3 30i runs the 2.0-litre turbopetrol four tuned for 185kW, which returns 7.6L/100km, while the $92,900 X3 30d has a 3.0-litre turbodiesel in-line six. It averages a claimed 6.0L/100km. The X3 M40i, priced at $113,900, runs a 265kW 3.0-litre…

BMW X3 FROM $71,900

BMW X5 FROM $104,900

BMW’s first X5, launched in 2000, immediately became the benchmark against which all other SUVs have since been judged. This fourth generation opens with the 170kW/450Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel/eight-speed automatic/all-wheel drive xDrive 25d, priced at $104,900. We’re testing the xDrive 30d, the top selling variant with a 195kW/620Nm 3.0-litre straight six turbodiesel, priced at $121,900. The xDrive 40i, with a 250kW/450Nm turbopetrol six, is $124,900, the xDrive 45e hybrid is $135,900 and the M50i, with a 390kW/750Nm twin turbopetrol 4.4-litre V8 is $157,900, or $142,900 in Pure specification, with the same drivetain but less bling. The hotrod X5 M, with the V8 chipped for 460kW, is $221,900. This model expanded in all directions, notably in width and wheelbase. It’s still a five seater, with a third row option. Serious effort has gone into upgrading infotainment and…

BMW X5 FROM $104,900

BMW X7 FROM $135,900

BMW’s first full size seven-seat SUV, the X7 starts from $135,900 for the 195kW/620Nm 3.0-litre turbodiesel six 30d, tested here. The 3.0-litre triple turbodiesel M50d, with 294kW and 760Nm, is $181,900, as is the 390kW/750Nm 4.4-litre twin turbopetrol V8 M50i. The X7 is the stretched, three-row version of the X5. With the back two rows stowed the cargo floor is close to 2.1 metres in length. With the third row stowed there’s more than one square metre of floor space. With all three rows of seats in place, there’s still room for luggage, although it’ll need to be piled high. Compared to the X5, you get all this extra space and flexibility for a $14,000 premium in 30d specification. In a less competitive era, BMW probably would have tried to…

BMW X7 FROM $135,900

BMW X7 FROM $135,900

BMW’s first full size seven-seat SUV, the X7 starts from $135,900 for the 195kW/620Nm 3.0-litre turbodiesel six 30d, tested here. The 3.0-litre triple turbodiesel M50d, with 294kW and 760Nm, is $181,900, as is the 390kW/750Nm 4.4-litre twin turbopetrol V8 M50i. The X7 is the stretched, three-row version of the X5. With the back two rows stowed the cargo floor is close to 2.1 metres in length. With the third row stowed there’s more than one square metre of floor space. With all three rows of seats in place, there’s still room for luggage, although it’ll need to be piled high. Compared to the X5, you get all this extra space and flexibility for a $14,000 premium in 30d specification. In a less competitive era, BMW probably would have tried to leverage more out…

BMW X7 FROM $135,900

FERRARI ROMA FROM $409,888

No tourist is likely to mistake Rome for Portofino, and Ferrari doesn’t think its customers will have any problem either. Just as you don’t go to Portofino to see the Colosseum, you won’t buy the new Roma to enjoy open-air driving. Back in 2017 Ferrari named its replacement for the California after an exquisite and expensive seaside village on the north-west coast of Italy. Like its predecessor, the Portofino features a retractable hardtop. And that’s something the Roma coupe obviously lacks. Still, the two have lot in common: rear-wheel drive, a front-mounted twin-turbo 3.9-litre V8, 2+2 seating and Italian good looks. The Roma’s exterior aims to evoke the flavour of la dolce vita, as Italians call the decadent late ‘50s and early ‘60s period immortalised in Fellini’s famous film. With…

FERRARI ROMA FROM $409,888

FERRARI ROMA FROM $409,888

No tourist is likely to mistake Rome for Portofino, and Ferrari doesn’t think its customers will have any problem either. Just as you don’t go to Portofino to see the Colosseum, you won’t buy the new Roma to enjoy open-air driving. Back in 2017 Ferrari named its replacement for the California after an exquisite and expensive seaside village on the north-west coast of Italy. Like its predecessor, the Portofino features a retractable hardtop. And that’s something the Roma coupe obviously lacks. Still, the two have lot in common: rear-wheel drive, a front-mounted twin-turbo 3.9-litre V8, 2+2 seating and Italian good looks. The Roma’s exterior aims to evoke the flavour of la dolce vita, as Italians call the decadent late ‘50s and early ‘60s period immortalised in Fellini’s famous film. With its long, low nose…

FERRARI ROMA FROM $409,888

FERRARI 812 FROM $613,888

No Ferrari road car can claim a longer line of descent than those with a high-revving V12 engine up front that drives the rear wheels. This was the layout of the very first road cars the company made in 1950 and the Ferrari-badged racers produced from 1947. The latest in the Ferrari V12 line is the 812, released in 2017. It’s priced at $613,888 for the Superfast coupe. This is almost $80,000 less than the car it replaced, the F12berlinetta. The 812 GTS Spider is $675,888. The headline change was the 812’s larger and more powerful V12 engine. Ferrari’s engineers increased the piston stroke of the F12berlinetta’s 6.3L with a new crankshaft and made major improvements to the intake and fuel-injection systems. In its new 6.5L capacity, the V12 wails…

FERRARI 812 FROM $613,888

FORD FIESTA ST FROM $32,290

There’s a saying the car business that goes like this: “Performance costs money. How fast do you want to go?” There’s much more to a great performance car than sheer speed, though, a fact well demonstrated by Ford’s Fiesta ST. It’s not quite a hot hatch. With 147kW of power from a 1.5-litre three cylinder turbopetrol, let’s call it warm enough. But Ford of Europe, where the ST originates, always turns out a beautifully sorted sports hatchback, including the Fiesta’s big brother, the Focus ST. The reason why both cars work so well is that the vital elements -- performance, handling, ride, steering and braking -- all complement each other and form a tightly integrated package. And being a front wheel drive hatchback, that weighs just 1191kg, the Fiesta is…

FORD FIESTA ST FROM $32,290

FERRARI 812 FROM $613,888

No Ferrari road car can claim a longer line of descent than those with a high-revving V12 engine up front that drives the rear wheels. This was the layout of the very first road cars the company made in 1950 and the Ferrari-badged racers produced from 1947. The latest in the Ferrari V12 line is the 812, released in 2017. It’s priced at $613,888 for the Superfast coupe. This is almost $80,000 less than the car it replaced, the F12berlinetta. The 812 GTS Spider is $675,888. The headline change was the 812’s larger and more powerful V12 engine. Ferrari’s engineers increased the piston stroke of the F12berlinetta’s 6.3L with a new crankshaft and made major improvements to the intake and fuel-injection systems. In its new 6.5L capacity, the V12 wails to 8900rpm and delivers…

FERRARI 812 FROM $613,888

FORD FOCUS FROM $30,990

The days of budget-priced small hatchbacks may soon be behind us. Few brands can get a Toyota Corolla-sized car close to the $20,000 drive-away mark these days, as each new model gains more advanced safety tech. The 2021 Ford Focus, imported from Germany, joins the growing list of hatchbacks that have vacated the bargain basement. The range opens with the STLine, priced at $30,990. It runs a 134kW 1.5-litre turbo triple/eight-speed auto/front-wheel drivetrain, as does Focus Active, a faux SUV also priced at $30,990. Focus ST, with a 206kW 2.0-litre turbopetrol, costs $44,890 with six speed manual or seven-speed automatic transmissions. As Toyota has done with the new Corolla, Ford has added some styling flair to help the pricing medicine go down. There’s another reason Ford has gone all out…

FORD FOCUS FROM $30,990

FORD FIESTA ST FROM $32,290

There’s a saying the car business that goes like this: “Performance costs money. How fast do you want to go?” There’s much more to a great performance car than sheer speed, though, a fact well demonstrated by Ford’s Fiesta ST. It’s not quite a hot hatch. With 147kW of power from a 1.5-litre three cylinder turbopetrol, let’s call it warm enough. But Ford of Europe, where the ST originates, always turns out a beautifully sorted sports hatchback, including the Fiesta’s big brother, the Focus ST. The reason why both cars work so well is that the vital elements -- performance, handling, ride, steering and braking -- all complement each other and form a tightly integrated package. And being a front wheel drive hatchback, that weighs just 1191kg, the Fiesta is huge fun to drive…

FORD FIESTA ST FROM $32,290

FORD PUMA FROM $29,990

The new Ford Puma is the smallest SUV in the brand’s line-up. There are three models: Puma (from $29,990), Puma ST-Line ($32,340) and Puma STLine V (from $35,540). All three models are powered by the same turbocharged 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine (with 92kW/170Nm) matched to a seven-speed dual clutch automatic sending drive to the front wheels. Puma’s fuel rating label says average consumption is 5.3L/100km but this is based on laboratory tests. During our test drive on mostly inter-urban roads and not much stop-start traffic we averaged between 6.7 and 8.0L/100km, on the recommended premium. It’s not meant to be a hot hatch (despite its sporty appearance) but Puma does the 0 to 100kmh dash in 9.7 seconds, which by any measure today is pretty slow. To be fair, once it’s…

FORD PUMA FROM $29,990

FORD FOCUS FROM $30,990

The days of budget-priced small hatchbacks may soon be behind us. Few brands can get a Toyota Corolla-sized car close to the $20,000 drive-away mark these days, as each new model gains more advanced safety tech. The 2021 Ford Focus, imported from Germany, joins the growing list of hatchbacks that have vacated the bargain basement. The range opens with the STLine, priced at $30,990. It runs a 134kW 1.5-litre turbo triple/eight-speed auto/front-wheel drivetrain, as does Focus Active, a faux SUV also priced at $30,990. Focus ST, with a 206kW 2.0-litre turbopetrol, costs $44,890 with six speed manual or seven-speed automatic transmissions. As Toyota has done with the new Corolla, Ford has added some styling flair to help the pricing medicine go down. There’s another reason Ford has gone all out with the new Focus: it’s an attempt…

FORD FOCUS FROM $30,990

FORD ESCAPE FROM $35,990

The 2021 Ford Escape makes a serious pitch for the performance buyer, with a 183kW/387Nm 2.0-litre turbopetrol standard across the range and 0-100km/h in six and a bit seconds. No rival offers anywhere near that sort of performance; in fact most are decidedly unsporty. The Porsche Macan, which will set you back $84,300, also has a 2.0-litre turbopetrol that produces 183kW/370Nm. It hits 100km/h in 6.7 seconds. Escape, then, is a performance SUV bargain, kicking off at $35,000 for the front-wheel drive base model, with an eight-speed auto as standard. ST Line is $37,990 and Vignale is $46,590. ST Line and Vignale are also available with all-wheel drive, priced at $40,990 and $49,590 respectively. A plug-in hybrid is due by the end of the year. Escape is big on safety…

FORD ESCAPE FROM $35,990

FORD PUMA FROM $29,990

The new Ford Puma is the smallest SUV in the brand’s line-up. There are three models: Puma (from $29,990), Puma ST-Line ($32,340) and Puma STLine V (from $35,540). All three models are powered by the same turbocharged 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine (with 92kW/170Nm) matched to a seven-speed dual clutch automatic sending drive to the front wheels. Puma’s fuel rating label says average consumption is 5.3L/100km but this is based on laboratory tests. During our test drive on mostly inter-urban roads and not much stop-start traffic we averaged between 6.7 and 8.0L/100km, on the recommended premium. It’s not meant to be a hot hatch (despite its sporty appearance) but Puma does the 0 to 100kmh dash in 9.7 seconds, which by any measure today is pretty slow. To be fair, once it’s on the move, the Ford…

FORD PUMA FROM $29,990

FORD ESCAPE FROM $35,990

The 2021 Ford Escape makes a serious pitch for the performance buyer, with a 183kW/387Nm 2.0-litre turbopetrol standard across the range and 0-100km/h in six and a bit seconds. No rival offers anywhere near that sort of performance; in fact most are decidedly unsporty. The Porsche Macan, which will set you back $84,300, also has a 2.0-litre turbopetrol that produces 183kW/370Nm. It hits 100km/h in 6.7 seconds. Escape, then, is a performance SUV bargain, kicking off at $35,000 for the front-wheel drive base model, with an eight-speed auto as standard. ST Line is $37,990 and Vignale is $46,590. ST Line and Vignale are also available with all-wheel drive, priced at $40,990 and $49,590 respectively. A plug-in hybrid is due by the end of the year. Escape is big on safety and connectivity tech. The full…

FORD ESCAPE FROM $35,990

FORD MUSTANG FROM $50,990

Ford gave Mustang a major rework in 2018 and produced the car it should have when it launched the first factory right hand drive model in 2015. In response to the criticism that the original model was too stiff over bumps, Ford engineers retuned the suspension and fitted better shock absorbers. Magnetically-controlled shock absorbers, which improve comfort even further, are a $2750 option. On 5.0-litre V8 models, a switch to Michelin Pilot Sport rubber from the original Pirelli P Zeros also aids cushioning over bumps. Ford fitted a louder bi-modal exhaust, which, at the press of a button, transforms the Mustang from hush quiet to 1970s muscle-car loud The V8 also gained 33kW and now produces 339kW. In early 2020, the 2.3-litre four gained a new twin scroll turbocharger and…

FORD MUSTANG FROM $50,990

GENESIS G70 FROM $59,300

Hyundai’s luxury brand Genesis is a (very small) niche brand in Australia. Its hero car is the Genesis G70, a mid size sedan aimed at the Mercedes-Benz C Class, BMW 3 Series, Audi A4 and Lexus IS. There’s a choice of 179kW/353Nm 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder power or a 272kW/510Nm twin turbo 3.3-litre V6, both matched with an eight-speed automatic and rear-wheel-drive. These drivetrains are also found in the Kia Stinger. Each engine is available in three grades. Prices for the four cylinder are $59,300 (2.0T), $63,300 (2.0T Sport) and $69,300 (2.0T Ultimate). The V6 opens at $72,450 (3.3T Sport) then rises to $79,950 (3.3T Ultimate) and tops out at $79,950 (3.3T Ultimate Sport). These prices may be a touch high, but they include servicing for the first five years, plus…

GENESIS G70 FROM $59,300

FORD MUSTANG FROM $50,990

Ford gave Mustang a major rework in 2018 and produced the car it should have when it launched the first factory right hand drive model in 2015. In response to the criticism that the original model was too stiff over bumps, Ford engineers retuned the suspension and fitted better shock absorbers. Magnetically-controlled shock absorbers, which improve comfort even further, are a $2750 option. On 5.0-litre V8 models, a switch to Michelin Pilot Sport rubber from the original Pirelli P Zeros also aids cushioning over bumps. Ford fitted a louder bi-modal exhaust, which, at the press of a button, transforms the Mustang from hush quiet to 1970s muscle-car loud The V8 also gained 33kW and now produces 339kW. In early 2020, the 2.3-litre four gained a new twin scroll turbocharger and now produces 236kW and…

FORD MUSTANG FROM $50,990

THONDA HR-V FROM $25,990

Honda’s HRV, a compact five-door SUV, combines extraordinary interior flexibility with a punchy drivetrain and handsome styling inside and out. The base 1.8-litre petrol/continuously variable automatic (CVT) VTi model costs $25,990. Then it’s the same drivetrain with more fruit as you move up to the VTi-S (from $30,390), followed by the RS (from $33,690) and then the VTi-LX at $36,240). While the 1799cc single-cam i-VTEC unit has seen dependable service in the Civic for years, its pairing with the latest-generation CVT has given the 1.8 a fresh lease on life. The HR-V is unexpectedly perky off the line and will maintain its eager acceleration right up to the 6600rpm redline (and a bit beyond). The CVT, meanwhile, is quite atypical in that it is not prone to droning. In most…

THONDA HR-V FROM $25,990

GENESIS G70 FROM $59,300

Hyundai’s luxury brand Genesis is a (very small) niche brand in Australia. Its hero car is the Genesis G70, a mid size sedan aimed at the Mercedes-Benz C Class, BMW 3 Series, Audi A4 and Lexus IS. There’s a choice of 179kW/353Nm 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder power or a 272kW/510Nm twin turbo 3.3-litre V6, both matched with an eight-speed automatic and rear-wheel-drive. These drivetrains are also found in the Kia Stinger. Each engine is available in three grades. Prices for the four cylinder are $59,300 (2.0T), $63,300 (2.0T Sport) and $69,300 (2.0T Ultimate). The V6 opens at $72,450 (3.3T Sport) then rises to $79,950 (3.3T Ultimate) and tops out at $79,950 (3.3T Ultimate Sport). These prices may be a touch high, but they include servicing for the first five years, plus a five year warranty. The…

GENESIS G70 FROM $59,300

HONDA CIVIC FROM $26,290

This Civic is the 10th generation since 1973. We’re testing the base model 1.8-litre VTi-S sedan which, at $26,290, sits below two 1.5-litre turbo variants: the $28,690 VTi-L, the sports-flavoured $34,090 RS and the $35,590 VTi-LX. Civic hatch is available with the same drivetrains at $27,300, $35,600 and $36,600 respectively. A VTi-L hatch is $31,100. Civic sedan has always been one of the largest cars in its class and this model almost qualifies as a medium-sizer. Four adults can spread out and relax in it. There is a twin cockpit-style front cabin, a driving position adjustable for any physique and luxurious front seats. There’s also plenty of rear-seat legroom and reasonable headroom despite the raked, coupe-style roofline. The wide, deep boot can be extended with 60/40 split rear seat backs.…

HONDA CIVIC FROM $26,290

THONDA HR-V FROM $25,990

Honda’s HRV, a compact five-door SUV, combines extraordinary interior flexibility with a punchy drivetrain and handsome styling inside and out. The base 1.8-litre petrol/continuously variable automatic (CVT) VTi model costs $25,990. Then it’s the same drivetrain with more fruit as you move up to the VTi-S (from $30,390), followed by the RS (from $33,690) and then the VTi-LX at $36,240). While the 1799cc single-cam i-VTEC unit has seen dependable service in the Civic for years, its pairing with the latest-generation CVT has given the 1.8 a fresh lease on life. The HR-V is unexpectedly perky off the line and will maintain its eager acceleration right up to the 6600rpm redline (and a bit beyond). The CVT, meanwhile, is quite atypical in that it is not prone to droning. In most driving situations, it is…

THONDA HR-V FROM $25,990

HONDA CIVIC FROM $26,290

This Civic is the 10th generation since 1973. We’re testing the base model 1.8-litre VTi-S sedan which, at $26,290, sits below two 1.5-litre turbo variants: the $28,690 VTi-L, the sports-flavoured $34,090 RS and the $35,590 VTi-LX. Civic hatch is available with the same drivetrains at $27,300, $35,600 and $36,600 respectively. A VTi-L hatch is $31,100. Civic sedan has always been one of the largest cars in its class and this model almost qualifies as a medium-sizer. Four adults can spread out and relax in it. There is a twin cockpit-style front cabin, a driving position adjustable for any physique and luxurious front seats. There’s also plenty of rear-seat legroom and reasonable headroom despite the raked, coupe-style roofline. The wide, deep boot can be extended with 60/40 split rear seat backs. Materials, fit and…

HONDA CIVIC FROM $26,290

HONDA CIVIC TYPE R FROM $54,990

The Honda Civic Type R received an update in 2020. Priced at an ambitious $54,990, you can have any transmission you like as long as it’s a six-speed manual. Improvements include more responsive adaptive damper electronics, stiffer suspension bushings, new brakes and improved engine cooling. Inside, there’s a new Alcantara-wrapped wheel, new gearshift lever, updated infotainment, artificial engine sound control (why?) and a data logger, so you can assess your lap times in detail. While most of Honda’s rivals have more modern twin scroll, or twin-turbo technology, the Type R’s 2.0-litre four, still with 228kW/400Nm, has an old-school single-scroll turbocharger attached to it. That means not much happens below 4000rpm, but then all hell breaks loose at that point and the chaos continues to the 7000rpm redline. Honda did this…

HONDA CIVIC TYPE R FROM $54,990

HONDA CRV FROM $31,300

Honda’s CR-V, the world’s top-selling SUV, lost its way for a while but is now back in serious contention with the fifth generation since 1997. Priced from $31,300 for the Vi front-drive auto, the latest version has expanded its repertoire with seven-seat availability as part of a range that also includes all-wheel drive but no more diesel option. Beneath the contemporary styling is Honda’s latest ‘Earth Dreams’ architecture — a sophisticated low-centre-of-gravity platform plus a four-cylinder turbo petrol engine, multi-link rear suspension and a clever fuel-saving all-wheel-drive system that cuts in and out only when required. This CRV is pleasingly spacious, easy to drive, comfortable, quiet, powerful, economical and agile. So it shares many of the attributes of its better competitors. Let’s take the packaging. This is a true five-seater…

HONDA CRV FROM $31,300

HONDA CIVIC TYPE R FROM $54,990

The Honda Civic Type R received an update in 2020. Priced at an ambitious $54,990, you can have any transmission you like as long as it’s a six-speed manual. Improvements include more responsive adaptive damper electronics, stiffer suspension bushings, new brakes and improved engine cooling. Inside, there’s a new Alcantara-wrapped wheel, new gearshift lever, updated infotainment, artificial engine sound control (why?) and a data logger, so you can assess your lap times in detail. While most of Honda’s rivals have more modern twin scroll, or twin-turbo technology, the Type R’s 2.0-litre four, still with 228kW/400Nm, has an old-school single-scroll turbocharger attached to it. That means not much happens below 4000rpm, but then all hell breaks loose at that point and the chaos continues to the 7000rpm redline. Honda did this intentionally because, it says, it’s…

HONDA CIVIC TYPE R FROM $54,990

HONDA CRV FROM $31,300

Honda’s CR-V, the world’s top-selling SUV, lost its way for a while but is now back in serious contention with the fifth generation since 1997. Priced from $31,300 for the Vi front-drive auto, the latest version has expanded its repertoire with seven-seat availability as part of a range that also includes all-wheel drive but no more diesel option. Beneath the contemporary styling is Honda’s latest ‘Earth Dreams’ architecture — a sophisticated low-centre-of-gravity platform plus a four-cylinder turbo petrol engine, multi-link rear suspension and a clever fuel-saving all-wheel-drive system that cuts in and out only when required. This CRV is pleasingly spacious, easy to drive, comfortable, quiet, powerful, economical and agile. So it shares many of the attributes of its better competitors. Let’s take the packaging. This is a true five-seater with heaps of…

HONDA CRV FROM $31,300

HYUNDAI I30 FROM $23,420

You don’t mess around with a winning formula, so Hyundai’s third-generation i30 offers more of the same: a strong value-for-money proposition, excellent quality and reliability backed up by a generous warranty. Its styling has been updated for 2021, with sharper lines and a sportier profile. Prices open at $23,420 for the 120kW 2.0-litre/six-speed manual i30. A six-speed auto adds $2000. Active auto is $26,920 and Elite auto is $30,220. A punchy 150kW 1.6-litre turbopetrol powers the N Line hatch, priced at $29,420. Premium is $34,220. The seven-speed transmission adds $2000 to both models. The i30 sedan, with a longer wheelbase and a 117kW 2.0-litre, starts at $24,790 for the Active; a six-speed auto adds $2000 and auto Elite is $30,790. N-Line manual sedan is $30,290; the seven-speed DCT adds $2000…

HYUNDAI I30 FROM $23,420

HYUNDAI I30 FROM $23,420

You don’t mess around with a winning formula, so Hyundai’s third-generation i30 offers more of the same: a strong value-for-money proposition, excellent quality and reliability backed up by a generous warranty. Its styling has been updated for 2021, with sharper lines and a sportier profile. Prices open at $23,420 for the 120kW 2.0-litre/six-speed manual i30. A six-speed auto adds $2000. Active auto is $26,920 and Elite auto is $30,220. A punchy 150kW 1.6-litre turbopetrol powers the N Line hatch, priced at $29,420. Premium is $34,220. The seven-speed transmission adds $2000 to both models. The i30 sedan, with a longer wheelbase and a 117kW 2.0-litre, starts at $24,790 for the Active; a six-speed auto adds $2000 and auto Elite is $30,790. N-Line manual sedan is $30,290; the seven-speed DCT adds $2000 and Premium is $37,290. All models…

HYUNDAI I30 FROM $23,420

HYUNDAI I30 N FROM $41,400

The first product of Hyundai’s N Performance division, the i30 N is the creation of Albert Biermann, former engineering chief of BMW’s M operation. At $41,400, i30 N is the best value in the class, whichever way you look at it. Its 2.0-litre turbo four produces 202kW of power and up to 378Nm of torque on over-boost, so it has the traditional hot hatch value measure (bang for your buck) well covered against rivals at the $40K price point. A Fastback variant (pictured), with a longer, lower coupe style body, costs $42,910. It features the same drivetrain as the hatch, and comparable standard equipment. The introduction of the Fastback brought a revised suspension package, now also fitted to the hatch. A slightly softer front end sharpens initial turn-in, improves ride…

HYUNDAI I30 N FROM $41,400

HYUNDAI IONIQ FROM $35,140

Electric drivetrain technology has progressed to the point where 200km and beyond is now an achievable range, so if you live in a capital city, an electric car is certainly a viable option as your daily driver. Hyundai’s Ioniq is a three-model line-up that includes a pure electric variant, with a claimed range of up to 311km, and a Toyota Prius-style petrol/electric hybrid, where the electric motor’s main function is to improve the efficiency of the petrol engine. Ioniq plug-in, tested here, claims up to 63km on electricity alone from its 8.9kWh lithium-ion battery. In hybrid mode, where it switches between 1.6-litre petrol and battery power, sometimes using both depending upon how and where you’re driving, its range can exceed 600km. Priced from $42,410 in Elite specification, or $46,950 for…

HYUNDAI IONIQ FROM $35,140

HYUNDAI I30 N FROM $41,400

The first product of Hyundai’s N Performance division, the i30 N is the creation of Albert Biermann, former engineering chief of BMW’s M operation. At $41,400, i30 N is the best value in the class, whichever way you look at it. Its 2.0-litre turbo four produces 202kW of power and up to 378Nm of torque on over-boost, so it has the traditional hot hatch value measure (bang for your buck) well covered against rivals at the $40K price point. A Fastback variant (pictured), with a longer, lower coupe style body, costs $42,910. It features the same drivetrain as the hatch, and comparable standard equipment. The introduction of the Fastback brought a revised suspension package, now also fitted to the hatch. A slightly softer front end sharpens initial turn-in, improves ride comfort and mid corner…

HYUNDAI I30 N FROM $41,400

HYUNDAI IONIQ FROM $35,140

Electric drivetrain technology has progressed to the point where 200km and beyond is now an achievable range, so if you live in a capital city, an electric car is certainly a viable option as your daily driver. Hyundai’s Ioniq is a three-model line-up that includes a pure electric variant, with a claimed range of up to 311km, and a Toyota Prius-style petrol/electric hybrid, where the electric motor’s main function is to improve the efficiency of the petrol engine. Ioniq plug-in, tested here, claims up to 63km on electricity alone from its 8.9kWh lithium-ion battery. In hybrid mode, where it switches between 1.6-litre petrol and battery power, sometimes using both depending upon how and where you’re driving, its range can exceed 600km. Priced from $42,410 in Elite specification, or $46,950 for the Premium, as…

HYUNDAI IONIQ FROM $35,140

HYUNDAI VENUE FROM $20,690

Hyundai’s Venue, a small SUV, starts at $20,690 (plus on road costs) for the six-speed manual; a six-speed automatic adds $2020. Powered by a 90kW 1.6-litre petrol four, driving the front wheels, Venue’s standard equipment list includes 15-inch alloy wheels, cloth upholstery, a camera, eight-inch touchscreen infotainment with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, voice control (only via either of these apps), fast, reliable Bluetooth connectivity, USB and 12 volt sockets (one each) and cruise control. Hyundai’s Auto Link app connects you to the car via your smartphone. Functions include monitoring how efficiently and smoothly you drive, keeping a record of your trips, battery condition, tyre pressures, a log book for business use, locating the vehicle, accident/breakdown assistance contacts and sharing your location and trips with friends and family via social media. Active…

HYUNDAI VENUE FROM $20,690

HYUNDAI KONA FROM $26,600

The 2021 Hyundai Kona is the first major update since the original model arrived in 2017. There are six models, starting with the base Kona, priced from $26,600. Active is priced from $28,200, Elite from $31,600 and Highlander from $38,000. These are powered by a 110kW 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, matched to a CVT auto and front-wheel drive. New for 2021 are Kona N-Line and N-Line Premium, both all-wheel-drive and powered by a 146kW, 1.6-litre four-cylinder turbopetrol matched to a seven-speed twin clutch automatic. The first SUVs to wear Hyundai’s sports N label are priced at $36,300 and $42,400.. Kona includes autonomous emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, adaptive cruise, 16-inch alloy wheels, wireless Apple Car Play, an 8.0-inch infotainment screen, and a rear camera. Kona Active gains leather seats, 17-inch alloy…

HYUNDAI KONA FROM $26,600

HYUNDAI VENUE FROM $20,690

Hyundai’s Venue, a small SUV, starts at $20,690 (plus on road costs) for the six-speed manual; a six-speed automatic adds $2020. Powered by a 90kW 1.6-litre petrol four, driving the front wheels, Venue’s standard equipment list includes 15-inch alloy wheels, cloth upholstery, a camera, eight-inch touchscreen infotainment with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, voice control (only via either of these apps), fast, reliable Bluetooth connectivity, USB and 12 volt sockets (one each) and cruise control. Hyundai’s Auto Link app connects you to the car via your smartphone. Functions include monitoring how efficiently and smoothly you drive, keeping a record of your trips, battery condition, tyre pressures, a log book for business use, locating the vehicle, accident/breakdown assistance contacts and sharing your location and trips with friends and family via social media. Active specification, at $22,620…

HYUNDAI VENUE FROM $20,690

HYUNDAI KONA FROM $26,600

The 2021 Hyundai Kona is the first major update since the original model arrived in 2017. There are six models, starting with the base Kona, priced from $26,600. Active is priced from $28,200, Elite from $31,600 and Highlander from $38,000. These are powered by a 110kW 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, matched to a CVT auto and front-wheel drive. New for 2021 are Kona N-Line and N-Line Premium, both all-wheel-drive and powered by a 146kW, 1.6-litre four-cylinder turbopetrol matched to a seven-speed twin clutch automatic. The first SUVs to wear Hyundai’s sports N label are priced at $36,300 and $42,400.. Kona includes autonomous emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, adaptive cruise, 16-inch alloy wheels, wireless Apple Car Play, an 8.0-inch infotainment screen, and a rear camera. Kona Active gains leather seats, 17-inch alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, rear privacy…

HYUNDAI KONA FROM $26,600

HYUNDAI KONA ELECTRIC FROM $62,000

Kona electric is Hyundai’s first battery-powered SUV. Prices start at $62,000 for the Elite. Highlander, which we’re testing here, is $66,000. The 2.0-litre petrol-powered Kona Elite starts at $31,600. Highlander is $38,000. So you’re paying close to twice the price to go EV. Kona’s 150kW single electric motor drives the front wheels. Its 64kWh lithium ion battery now provides a claimed range of up to 484km, up from 450km on the 2020 model. Hyundai quotes zero to 80 percent capacity recharge times extending from 47 minutes on a 100kW DC public fast charger to six hours and 50 minutes with three phase power and an optional 10.5kW on board charger. Using a 10amp household power point will take up to 28 hours. Servicing is cheap because an EV drivetrain has…

HYUNDAI KONA ELECTRIC FROM $62,000

HYUNDAI TUCSON FROM $29,640

Hyundai’s Tucson mid-size SUV range opens with the 121kW/203Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder direct-injection petrol/six-speed manual front-wheel-drive Active, at $29,640. Active X is $32,640. A six-speed auto adds $2500. Front-wheel drive Elite automatic is $38,200. All-wheel-drive petrol variants kick off with the 130kW/265Nm 1.6-litre turbopetrol/seven-speed dual-clutch-automated manual Elite at $41,200. In top-of-the-range Highlander specification, it’s $46,850. The 135kW/400Nm 2.0-litre turbodiesel/eight-speed automatic all-wheel-drive Active is $37,440. Active X is $40,440, Elite is $43,500 and Highlander is $49,150. Hyundai is pitching Tucson ActiveX 2.0-litre petrol as the value-for-money variant, with 17-inch alloy wheels, leather-faced seats, dynamic parking guidelines on the rear camera and a big touchscreen infotainment system. Apple CarPlay and Google Android Auto compatibility are standard across the range. Hyundai’s five years/unlimited-kilometres warranty is another value-add on ActiveX. Automatic emergency braking from speeds…

HYUNDAI TUCSON FROM $29,640

HYUNDAI KONA ELECTRIC FROM $62,000

Kona electric is Hyundai’s first battery-powered SUV. Prices start at $62,000 for the Elite. Highlander, which we’re testing here, is $66,000. The 2.0-litre petrol-powered Kona Elite starts at $31,600. Highlander is $38,000. So you’re paying close to twice the price to go EV. Kona’s 150kW single electric motor drives the front wheels. Its 64kWh lithium ion battery now provides a claimed range of up to 484km, up from 450km on the 2020 model. Hyundai quotes zero to 80 percent capacity recharge times extending from 47 minutes on a 100kW DC public fast charger to six hours and 50 minutes with three phase power and an optional 10.5kW on board charger. Using a 10amp household power point will take up to 28 hours. Servicing is cheap because an EV drivetrain has few moving parts and no fluids,…

HYUNDAI KONA ELECTRIC FROM $62,000

HYUNDAI SANTA FE FROM $44,700

Hyundai’s 2021 Santa Fe range opens with the 200kW 3.5-litre V6 petrol/eight-speed automatic/front-wheel-drive Wagon, at $44,700. Active is $48,300, Elite is $54,300 and Highlander is $61,700. The 148kW 2.2-litre turbodiesel/eight-speed automatic/all-wheel drive Wagon, tested here, is $48,200. Active is $51,800, Elite is $57,800 and Highlander is $65,200. The 2.2-litre turbodiesel produces hefty outputs for its size and is one of the best four-cylinder turbodiesels in the business, matching (or beating) the best German engines in performance, refinement and fuel efficiency. It’s very responsive from low revs, exceptionally smooth and strong in the midrange and pulls willingly across the top end to well past 4500rpm. Eco, Comfort, Sport and Smart (adaptive) drivetrain modes can be selected, and auto stop/start is fitted. The eight-speed dual clutch automatic is a seamless with the…

HYUNDAI SANTA FE FROM $44,700

HYUNDAI TUCSON FROM $29,640

Hyundai’s Tucson mid-size SUV range opens with the 121kW/203Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder direct-injection petrol/six-speed manual front-wheel-drive Active, at $29,640. Active X is $32,640. A six-speed auto adds $2500. Front-wheel drive Elite automatic is $38,200. All-wheel-drive petrol variants kick off with the 130kW/265Nm 1.6-litre turbopetrol/seven-speed dual-clutch-automated manual Elite at $41,200. In top-of-the-range Highlander specification, it’s $46,850. The 135kW/400Nm 2.0-litre turbodiesel/eight-speed automatic all-wheel-drive Active is $37,440. Active X is $40,440, Elite is $43,500 and Highlander is $49,150. Hyundai is pitching Tucson ActiveX 2.0-litre petrol as the value-for-money variant, with 17-inch alloy wheels, leather-faced seats, dynamic parking guidelines on the rear camera and a big touchscreen infotainment system. Apple CarPlay and Google Android Auto compatibility are standard across the range. Hyundai’s five years/unlimited-kilometres warranty is another value-add on ActiveX. Automatic emergency braking from speeds up to 65km/h and lane-departure warning/lane…

HYUNDAI TUCSON FROM $29,640

HYUNDAI SANTA FE FROM $44,700

Hyundai’s 2021 Santa Fe range opens with the 200kW 3.5-litre V6 petrol/eight-speed automatic/front-wheel-drive Wagon, at $44,700. Active is $48,300, Elite is $54,300 and Highlander is $61,700. The 148kW 2.2-litre turbodiesel/eight-speed automatic/all-wheel drive Wagon, tested here, is $48,200. Active is $51,800, Elite is $57,800 and Highlander is $65,200. The 2.2-litre turbodiesel produces hefty outputs for its size and is one of the best four-cylinder turbodiesels in the business, matching (or beating) the best German engines in performance, refinement and fuel efficiency. It’s very responsive from low revs, exceptionally smooth and strong in the midrange and pulls willingly across the top end to well past 4500rpm. Eco, Comfort, Sport and Smart (adaptive) drivetrain modes can be selected, and auto stop/start is fitted. The eight-speed dual clutch automatic is a seamless with the engine, and shifts are timely,…

HYUNDAI SANTA FE FROM $44,700

HYUNDAI PALISADE FROM $60,000

Hyundai’s Palisade is a monster-sized, US sourced, luxury SUV that represents great value for money if you need a seven or eight seater wagon. Prices kick off at $60,000 for the 217kW 3.8-litre petrol/eight-speed automatic/front wheel drive Palisade; the 147kW 2.2-litre four cylinder turbodiesel/eight-speed automatic/all-wheel drive is $64,000. Eight seats, arranged in a 2-3-3 layout, are standard. Highlander specification, with the same drivetrains, costs $71,000 and $75,000 respectively. It also offers the no cost option of substituting two individual middle row seats, with a walk through to the rear bench, for a seven seat layout. Palisade is built to the highest quality standards, exceptionally spacious and comfortable, and loaded with equipment, especially at Highlander level where it rivals the big German wagons such as Audi’s Q7, BMW’s X7 and the…

HYUNDAI PALISADE FROM $60,000

JAGUAR I-PACE FROM $128,248

Jaguar aimed ambitiously high with its I-Pace mid-size luxury SUV. “The target was to create the best electric vehicle on the planet,” says Jaguar technical design director, Wolfgang Ziebart. I-Pace matches the Tesla Model X for performance, driving range and efficiency. But I-Pace is better designed and built than anything from the audacious American company adored by EV evangelists. Mercedes EQC is similar in size, but slightly less powerful (330kW), slower and with a shorter range, claimed to be up to 350km. Audi’s e-tron produces 230-265kW and claims a range of “over 400km.” Porsche’s 320-460kW Taycan is in another league, as its $190,400 starting price indicates. I-Pace is available in three model grades — the $128,248 S, $137,848 SE and $151,448 HSE. The Jaguar’s chassis cradles a large, flat 90kWh…

JAGUAR I-PACE FROM $128,248

HYUNDAI PALISADE FROM $60,000

Hyundai’s Palisade is a monster-sized, US sourced, luxury SUV that represents great value for money if you need a seven or eight seater wagon. Prices kick off at $60,000 for the 217kW 3.8-litre petrol/eight-speed automatic/front wheel drive Palisade; the 147kW 2.2-litre four cylinder turbodiesel/eight-speed automatic/all-wheel drive is $64,000. Eight seats, arranged in a 2-3-3 layout, are standard. Highlander specification, with the same drivetrains, costs $71,000 and $75,000 respectively. It also offers the no cost option of substituting two individual middle row seats, with a walk through to the rear bench, for a seven seat layout. Palisade is built to the highest quality standards, exceptionally spacious and comfortable, and loaded with equipment, especially at Highlander level where it rivals the big German wagons such as Audi’s Q7, BMW’s X7 and the Mercedes GLS – but…

HYUNDAI PALISADE FROM $60,000

JAGUAR E-PACE FROM $58,730

It was only five years ago that Jaguar decided it needed a competitor in the premium compact SUV segment, where models including the Audi Q3, BMW X1 and Range Rover Evoque were boosting their brands’ sales. Getting the E-Pace to market as quickly as possible was a priority for the latecomer, according to vehicle line director, Alan Volkaerts. For this reason, it uses technology already developed for other models in the Jaguar Land Rover portfolio. D8 won’t mean anything to potential customers, but inside JLR it’s the codename for the set of building blocks used to make both the Range Rover Evoque and newer Land Rover Discovery Sport. The E-Pace is built on the same foundations. Jaguar was able to create a version of D8 that’s a little larger than…

JAGUAR E-PACE FROM $58,730

JAGUAR I-PACE FROM $128,248

Jaguar aimed ambitiously high with its I-Pace mid-size luxury SUV. “The target was to create the best electric vehicle on the planet,” says Jaguar technical design director, Wolfgang Ziebart. I-Pace matches the Tesla Model X for performance, driving range and efficiency. But I-Pace is better designed and built than anything from the audacious American company adored by EV evangelists. Mercedes EQC is similar in size, but slightly less powerful (330kW), slower and with a shorter range, claimed to be up to 350km. Audi’s e-tron produces 230-265kW and claims a range of “over 400km.” Porsche’s 320-460kW Taycan is in another league, as its $190,400 starting price indicates. I-Pace is available in three model grades — the $128,248 S, $137,848 SE and $151,448 HSE. The Jaguar’s chassis cradles a large, flat 90kWh lithium-ion battery pack beneath…

JAGUAR I-PACE FROM $128,248

JAGUAR E-PACE FROM $58,730

It was only five years ago that Jaguar decided it needed a competitor in the premium compact SUV segment, where models including the Audi Q3, BMW X1 and Range Rover Evoque were boosting their brands’ sales. Getting the E-Pace to market as quickly as possible was a priority for the latecomer, according to vehicle line director, Alan Volkaerts. For this reason, it uses technology already developed for other models in the Jaguar Land Rover portfolio. D8 won’t mean anything to potential customers, but inside JLR it’s the codename for the set of building blocks used to make both the Range Rover Evoque and newer Land Rover Discovery Sport. The E-Pace is built on the same foundations. Jaguar was able to create a version of D8 that’s a little larger than Evoque but substantially smaller…

JAGUAR E-PACE FROM $58,730

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