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SUBSCRIBE FREE: www.GoAutoMedia.com ADVERTISE: Steve Butcher Ph: 0419 562 110 ads@mellor.net
Feb 17, 2010 No. 519
GoAuto NewsJohn Mellor’s
Australia’s No.1 Automotive Industry Journal 70,000 Readers Weekly
By JACQUI MADELIN in ITALYSIT the new Ferrari 458 Italia between the
car it replaces – the 430 – and the California,
and the newest offering from Marinello
seems tiny, lithe, lean and sculpted.
Even the 430 looks larger and less
focused, while the softer California appears
almost porky by comparison.
In fact, the 458 – which goes on sale in
Australia in June for about $580,000 – is
only a millimetre lower than its predecessor,
but 14mm wider and 15mm longer, with a
wheelbase stretched 50mm with overhangs
shorter to match.
The front track has been pushed 3mm
wider, although the rear is actually
narrower.
It is not just the stretched lines that
make this car seem smaller, but its design.
The dished bonnet exaggerates the blade-
like wings, the sharp headlight outline is
underlined by the bonnet-side intake and the
outlet on its trailing edge channels airfl ow to
create a negative zone over the front guard
while signalling a sharper focus for this car.
That said, there are similarities between
these Ferraris. The all-aluminium chassis
uses the same modular format as the
California’s. The 458 also uses a direct-
injection V8 and a development of the
seven-speed dual-clutch transmission – a
fi rst for the mid-rear-engined Berlinettas.
The e-diff is now incorporated within the
transmission housing to reduce dimensions
and weight. The e-diff, F1-Trac traction
control and ABS are controlled by one
ECU. Altered gearing suits the extra
power and the car’s character, while gear
actuation is quicker. Even the tyres have
been specially designed.
Like the California, the 458 uses a multi-
link rear suspension, but designed for this
car with different suspension bushings
plus new software and hardware for the
Magnetorheological magnetic suspension
(SCM2) for more rapid response.
Overall, there is greater roll stiffness and
greater lateral and longitudinal integrity.
As for the engine, it is a longitudinal
mid-mounted naturally aspirated 4499cc
V8 based loosely on the California’s but
signifi cantly developed. Output is 419kW of
power at 9000rpm, or 93kW per litre, with
540Nm of torque at 6000rpm. There is up to
15 per cent more torque at low to medium
revs than any 430 variant had, with 80 per
cent of it available from 3250 to 9000rpm.
That is an immense amount of
shove, achieved via too many technical
developments to detail here.
But perhaps the most interesting is the
scavenge system. Each of the four crank
throws is separate to reduce oil splash.
A scavenge pump creates an area of low
pressure below the crank, thus creating a
vacuum to remove excess air.
Piston action can create an oil-air froth
that causes friction and therefore reduces
effi ciency. But this set-up prevents that.
Along with a variety of other friction-
cutting devices, it is what allows this engine
to reach such high revs. Even the oil pump
uses variable geometry, with the minimal
displacement decreasing the oil pumped by
about two per cent, making for power and
fuel gains at about 170km/h.Continued next page
Winter Winter gamesgames
PORSCHE’S FIRST 911 HYBRID
- page 6
Not much snow in Vancouver? There’s more than enough in the Italian Apennines – where GoAuto has taken a fi rst drive in the fabulous Ferrari 458
Feb 17, 2010 Page 2
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GoAuto NewsJohn Mellor’s
SUBSCRIBE FREE: www.GoAutoMedia.com
PUBLISHER: John MellorEDITOR: Terry Martin MANAGING EDITOR: Marton PettendyJOURNALISTS: Byron Mathioudakis, James Stanford Philip Lord, David HassallPRODUCTION & GRAPHICS: Chris Harris, Luc BrittenSUB-EDITOR: Ron HammertonNEW MODEL DIARY: Lou PaolinoProduced by GoAutoMedia: Ph: (03) 9598 6477 newsroom@mellor.net
ADVERTISE: Steve Butcher Ph: 0419 562 110 ads@mellor.net
GoAuto NewsJohn Mellor’s
Winter gamesWinter games
sales@auto-it.com.au | www.auto-it.com.au | +61 3 9349 3062
Chris Newton - Chairman (left) & Julian Newton - DP
City Holden is Australia’s most awarded Holden Dealer and won last year’s Chairmans Man Award for number one dealer in group 1 nationally!
Auto-IT is proud to supply the Dealer Management System that runs their business.
Continued from previous pageFerrari is keen to underline that this car’s
performance comes with effi ciency and
emissions improvements.
The F355 F1 from 1995 emitted 470g/
km of CO2 while this car emits 307g/km.
That is a massive reduction, obtained in a
1380kg vehicle with a 0-100km/h time of
3.4 seconds, which can do zero to 200km/h
in 10.4 seconds and has a top speed of
325km/h.
Naturally, drive it like this and you will
not see the claimed 13.3L/100km but, yes,
this car delivers more power, for less fuel,
than even 2008’s 430.
Braking performance has also improved,
with 100km/h to zero in 32.5 metres, thanks
to carbon ceramic brakes and new high-
performance ABS brakes. Steering is also
sharper, with just two turns lock to lock.
This 458 can despatch a Fiorano lap in
one minute, 25 seconds, the same time as
the 430 Scuderia, the lightest and sportiest
430. And this is the standard road car – not a
sharp-focused limited production variant.
Mind you, the aero says otherwise. Just
look at those front winglets; they move by
up to 2cm according to air speed to defl ect
air where it is most useful, just one of a
number of clever aerodynamic aids that
together create more downforce at 325km/h
than the Enzo.
You need a racetrack to appreciate that.
But it was on this drive across the Italian
Apennines that the suspension decoupling
made sense. Tapping the wheel-mounted
button softens damper response, leaving
other functions at whatever Manettino
setting you have selected.
It is a kidney saver on rougher surfaces
– and improves grip by keeping rubber to
road. Aussie owners will approve.
As for that Manettino itself, it stays
the same, simple device whatever tech
developments lie behind it. But given the
wintry conditions in Italy this week, there
was no chance for us to assess the CST-
off setting that switches the ABS to sport,
and the ESP and traction control off while
setting the suspension and gearbox to its
sportiest setting; nor the CT-off mode that at
least leaves some stability control functions
in the wings.
We did not use the ‘low-grip’ setting
despite several moments pulling away on
skating-rink-slick packed snow, instead
switching between ‘Sport’ and ‘Race’.
Try the latter once and ‘Sport’ will seem
too soft thereafter, although the conditions
meant we had to use it. ‘Race’ quickens the
gearing, fi rms up the shocks, switches the
e-diff, traction control and ESP to race mode
and opens the exhaust bypass fl aps.
It puts a boot up the already quick car
which feels livelier, sounds sharper and gets
a whole lot more naughty.
At fi rst we were almost disappointed
at how easy this car is to drive. It initially
sounds a little fl at, and feels almost sensible.
The buttons and screens are clearly grouped
by function, and the items you need to access
quickly – wipers, indicators, gears – are all
fi xed to the wheel.
Sure, you are always in a supercar. The
view up front tells you that, given only the
front and rear wings are visible from the
driver’s seat. But the 458 is a supercar that
is easy to manage.
Until you start tapping that Manettino. As
driver confi dence increased so did speed, the
car swivelling round corners as surefooted
as if there was no snow, the only problem
being that even on Italy’s manic roads you
are travelling too fast in third ever to see
what the higher gears can do.
Still, in race mode the car’s agility is
matched to a popping, crackling, cackling
engine note that delivers the shrill howl of a
fl at crank motor, matched by sharp steering
and rapid-fi re gear changes that saw us
despatch our snow-clad test loop in well
under the time allowed.
That the 458 is suffi ciently tractable to
drive fast in these conditions is impressive.
The old school might mourn the loss
of hard-to-drive cars. But a vehicle this
uncompromised in performance terms that
can also be driven every day – and year-
round – is a truly impressive achievement.
Coolest of cabriolets – next page
Feb 17, 2010 Page 3
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GoAuto NewsJohn Mellor’s
Coolest of cabrioletsCoolest of cabrioletsGoAuto takes a drive in Maserati’s brilliant new four-seater GranCabrio
By JACQUI MADELIN in ITALYMASERATI chose a wintry Rome to
launch its latest drop-top superstar, the
GranCabrio.
The Italian marque’s fi rst four-seat
convertible – unless you count three four-
seaters built by independent coachbuilder
Castagna on the 26M chassis back in 1932
– the GranCabrio was developed from the
GranTurismo.
With the same wheelbase but extensive
structural modifi cations to the basic platform,
the GranCabrio comes only with the top-
spec 4.7-litre V8 engine, putting 323kW of
power to the rear wheels at 7000rpm and
490Nm of torque at 4650rpm.
It is matched to the same six-speed ZF
automated manual as the GranTurismo, but
with modifi ed transmission software and
an altered fi nal-drive ratio to suit the car’s
different character.
The active and passive safety systems have
been redesigned, with new rollover protection
and extensive stiffening both under the
bonnet and beneath the car, where attention
also focused on improved aerodynamics.
Changes include beefi er sills,
modifi cations to the door structure and an
enclosed compartment for the folding roof.
There is also a structural ‘torsion wall’
behind the rear seats and two reinforcing
rods across the engine bay.
Maserati claims measurable torsional
and bending stiffness are just 1.82Hz below
that of the coupe. But the bracing and roof
mechanism have added almost 100kg of
weight to an already heavy car.
Maserati vehicle integration manager,
tech and testing, Federico Landini says the
centre of gravity is 12-14mm lower than
before, and weight is still well distributed,
with a 48:52 front-to-rear bias with the roof
down, and 49:51 with it up.
At 0.35Cd, the roof-up drag coeffi cient
is not as favourable as the GranTurismo’s
0.33Cd – and it is 0.39 with the roof down.
Other changes include developments to
the hydraulic brake-assist – snow-tested in
New Zealand last year – and to the dampers
for the continuously adaptive Skyhook
suspension system.
Selecting the ‘sport’ button stiffens that
suspension and speeds up gear changes as
well as re-routing the exhaust for maximum
decibels. Like its coupe sibling, the car
boasts a truly sensational soundtrack.
As for the looks, the Pininfarina
design has it nailed, roof up or down.
You could bet that Henry Ford II,
who said he would drive his own
Maser until his engineers designed a
car as beautiful, would approve.
The roof, available in six colours,
is a three-layer affair that takes 28
seconds to electrically raise or lower
at speeds under 30km/h – or 20 seconds, not
counting the windows.
Internationally, GranCabrio will compete
with the BMW 6 Series cabrio, Jaguar XKR
cabrio and Aston DB9 Volante, although the
fact it has four useable seats pitches it more
closely to the Bentley GTC.
Mind you, Maserati acknowledges that
most owners will have to use the rear seats
as supplementary luggage space. At 173
litres, the boot is strictly limited, given the
roof compartment is an enclosed part of the
car’s bracing.
Maserati sells bags to fi t each of the two
sculpted rear seats, with a belt to hold them
in place in a crash. It says the security system
that alarms the cabin, particularly when the
wind defl ector is fi tted, effectively keeps
bags secure during that vital cafe stop.
As for rear passengers, even Maserati
admits only the 62.5 percentile will be
comfy. Headroom is tight but the squabs’
42mm inward and 40mm upward position
– mandated by the roof mechanism – means
rear passengers get a better-than-expected
view out even with the roof up, though anyone
taller than 1.7 metres would be cramped.
Front seat passengers get the same
gorgeous materials and cabin ambience as
the GranTurismo, and the same enormous
range of colour and trim choices.
FULL STORY: CLICK HERE
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Feb 17, 2010 Page 4
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GoAuto NewsJohn Mellor’s
GOOGLE AUSTRALIA is looking for a bright, dynamic sales person with at least ve years Automotive industry experience,
and a great network of industry contacts, to join its Sydney-based advertising sales team (Automotive).
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To review the full job description and apply online please click here or visit: http://www.google.com.au/support/jobs/bin/answer.py?answer=173731&src=goautonews
ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER – Auto IndustryADVERTISING SALES MANAGER – Auto Industry
By MARTON PETTENDYPORSCHE has taken about 30 Australian
deposits for the upgraded 911 Turbo and says
it expects to sell about 80 examples in its
fi rst full year of sales, despite prices ranging
between $360,100 for the manual coupe and
$394,100 for the PDK-auto cabriolet.
Refl ecting the continuing economic
downturn, that is down 20 per cent from the
100 sales in the fi rst year of the outgoing
911 Turbo, the most successful Porsche to
wear the hallowed moniker both globally
and in Australia.
“People are still bruised by the GFC, so
we’ve pegged back our expectations for this
year, but the 911 Turbo is the one car they
will want, GFC or not,” said Porsche Cars
Australia spokesman Paul Ellis.
“We’re not in the business of forcing sales
– we won’t over-supply the market at the
expense of resale values – so every single
sale will be a legitimate sale.”
Mr Ellis said about 90 per cent of 911
Turbo pre-orders were for the more puristic
coupe, while an unprecedented 95 per
cent were for versions with the Porsche-
Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) dual-
clutch automated manual transmission,
which is available for the fi rst time in
Porsche’s fl agship 911.
Now on sale in Australia, the facelifted
997-series iteration is the latest in a 35-year
model line that dates back to 1975’s inaugural
930-series 911 Turbo, whose 3.0-litre boxer
turbo engine produced 194kW of power and
350Nm of torque, whistling the fi rst-generation
911 Turbo to 100km/h in 5.4 seconds.
Since then every 911 Turbo has delivered
more peak power, torque and standing-start
acceleration, usually at the expense of fuel
consumption.
Not so with the 2010 model, which packs
a larger new direct-injection 3.8-litre fl at six
to replace its predecessor’s 3.6-litre boxer-
turbo and, despite being the most powerful
911 Turbo, is also the most fuel-effi cient.
GoAuto drove the newest 911 Turbo at its
European launch in Portugal last October,
after the debut of Porsche’s quickest road car
at the Frankfurt motor show in September,
but many of its specifi cations are simply too
outstanding not to recap on the occasion of
the Stuttgart fl agship’s Australian launch.
The 2010 911T’s ballistic power output
of 368kW (or a neat 500hp) at 6000rpm has
already been eclipsed by the forthcoming
911 Turbo S, which slams down 390kW and
goes on sale here in August at $423,300 as
a coupe and $442,800 in cabriolet guise,
following its world debut at next month’s
Geneva motor show.Continued next page
Potent 911T Potent 911T hits townhits town
Latest-generation 911 Turbo arrives in Australia as Porsche celebrates 35 years of the force-fed super-coupe
Feb 17, 2010 Page 5
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GoAuto NewsJohn Mellor’s
Continued from previous pageMeantime, Porsche’s facelifted GT2,
which will also be an order-only proposition
in Australia, is expected to complete the
current 997 series two 911 range next
year, when it is likely to set a new 911
price benchmark above its predecessor’s
$447,500 sticker, before the next-generation
997-series model emerges in 2012.
However, the new 911 Turbo’s wholesome
700Nm torque peak (between 2100 and
4000rpm, when fi tted with the optional
Sport Chrono Package in overboost mode)
remains undefeated by the Turbo S.
The ‘garden-variety’ 911 Turbo may
produce ‘just’ 650Nm of torque from
1950rpm, but it is enough to propel the
latest 911T, which is up to
25kg lighter than before, to
100km/h in a claimed 3.7
seconds in its most basic
manual-transmission guise
(3.8 seconds for the cabriolet)
– down from 3.9 seconds for the current 911
Turbo manual.
Fitted with the PDK gearbox, the new
911T hits the legal highway limit in just 3.6
seconds (the same as the manual version
with the Sport Chrono pack), but the
PDK version with Sport Chrono stops the
100km/h clock in a new Porsche road car
benchmark of just 3.4 seconds.
Despite peak performance increases of
15kW (up from 353kW) and 30Nm (up from
620Nm) that deliver a 0-100km/h acceleration
improvement of eight per cent, however, the
new 911 Turbo is claimed to
consume an average of 16 per
cent or 2.2 litres per 100km
less fuel and emit up to 18 per
cent less CO2.
Fitted with the fi rst
all-new turbo engine in the model’s 35-
year history, the latest 911 Turbo returns
combined average fuel consumption of
just 11.6L/100km (11.4L/100km in PDK
form) and CO2 emissions of 272 grams per
kilometre (PDK: 268g/km).
New features include a Sport Plus button
on PDK-equipped models, which activates
a ‘Race Track Gearshift Strategy’ for both
upshifts and downshifts, while the Sport
Chrono Package Turbo also comes with
dynamic engine mounts, which aim to reduce
vibration around town while increasing body
stiffness at speed.
Joining the Turbo’s Porsche Traction
Management all-wheel drive system is
the fi rst-time option of Porsche Torque
Vectoring (PTV), which combines the
Porsche Stability Management electronic
stability control system with a mechanical
rear differential to brake the inner rear wheel
as required, further increasing potential
cornering speeds.
FULL STORY: CLICK HEREFor drive impressions, go to
www.GoAuto.com.au from Thursday911 hybrid! – next page
Potent 911T hits townPotent 911T hits town
PRICING:Coupe $360,100
Coupe (a) $368,000
Cabriolet $386,200
Cabriolet (a) $394,100
Feb 17, 2010 Page 6
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GoAuto NewsJohn Mellor’s
(03) 9006 1214 to organise an obligation FREE demonstration
P A cost effective training solutionP Assists in reducing exposure to serious collisionsP Customised for the Australian marketP Helps manage your OH&S obligationsP Interactive and realistic driving simulationP Focus on driving attitudes and behaviours
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A product of Driving Safer PTY Limited
Porsche’s fi rst petrol-electric 911 emerges via GT3 racer
911 hybrid!911 hybrid!
By MARTON PETTENDYPORSCHE has revealed its fi rst ever 911
hybrid – and its fi rst petrol-electric boxer
drivetrain – in the 911 GT3 Hybrid R
racecar.
Due to make its global public premiere at
the Geneva motor show on March 2 before
undergoing a race program culminating in
the epic Nurburgring 24-hour endurance race
on May 15-16, the groundbreaking new car
is described as a “racing laboratory that will
provide invaluable knowledge and insight
on the subsequent use of hybrid technology
in road-going Porsche sportscars”.
Porsche’s fi rst ever petrol-electric
production vehicle, the all-new Cayenne
Hybrid, is expected to debut alongside the
hybrid GT3 R racer at Geneva before going
on sale in Australia later this year, and the
same technology will become available next
year in its four-door Panamera grand tourer,
which shares its engine line-up with the
Cayenne.
But the emergence of the GT3 Hybrid R
is the fi rst evidence that Porsche also intends
to apply petrol-electric technology to its
hallowed 911, which unlike the Cayenne
and Panamera employs rear-mounted fl at
six engines.
While the GT3 R previews technology
that should eventually power its iconic 911
super-coupe, Porsche suggested to GoAuto
in October that a production 911 hybrid
road car is at least fi ve years away – if it is
coming at all – ruling out the possibility of
a hybrid variant being launched as part of
the redesigned 998-series 911 coupe line-up
by 2012.
Similarly, it said packaging, weight and
range issues are likely to rule out an all-
electric version of the 911 for at least a
decade.
For now, like Porsche’s fi ve-door models,
the hybrid GT3 track model utilises a hybrid
drive system to increase both performance
and effi ciency – this time on the racetrack.
Unlike Porsche’s hybrid road cars,
however, the GT3 R’s drivetrain, developed
especially for racing, employs two 60kW
electric motors to drive the front wheels,
leaving the rear wheels powered exclusively
by its 353kW 4.0-litre fl at six race engine.
Porsche says the all-wheel drive
arrangement, which uses an electric fl ywheel
power generator instead of batteries to power
the electric motors, delivers greater traction
and agility than the non-hybrid GT3 R.
The fl ywheel generator spins at up to
40,000rpm, storing power mechanically as
kinetic energy. Similar to a KERS system
in Formula One, braking action charges
up the fl ywheel generator, with the electric
motors reversing their function and acting as
generators themselves.
FULL STORY: CLICK HERE
BMW set to offer 5 Series hybrid soon
By BYRON MATHIOUDAKIS in PORTUGAL
BMW has indicated that a hybrid version
of the new F10 5 Series range is under
development and due for release in the
near future.
An imminent introduction of a close-
to-production concept version has already
been widely speculated in the North
American press over the past few weeks,
with some reports suggesting an unveiling
at the Geneva motor show next month
under the ‘ActiveHybrid 5’ moniker.
This would fall in line with the BMW
ActiveHybrid 7 concept revealed in
September. The ActiveHybrid 7 combines a
V8 petrol engine, an eight-speed automatic
transmission and an electric motor in a
mild-hybrid concept.
Speaking to GoAuto at the 5 Series
launch in Portugal last week, a BMW
insider admitted the Bavarian marque is not
likely to concede a market advantage over
its Mercedes-Benz and Audi opponents in
any area – “including the development of
hybrid powertrains”.
While he would not be drawn into
revealing any timing plans for such a
vehicle, the BMW source did say that we
should stay closely tuned to developments.
Asked to indicate what sort of engine
an ActiveHybrid 5 might use, the source
suggested most people associate BMWs
with six-cylinders – especially in hybrid-
obsessed North America – so that while
segment-leading fuel economy and low
emissions are essential for such a model to
be a success, going down the four-cylinder
path may not necessarily be in keeping
with BMW’s image.
FULL STORY: CLICK HERE
Feb 17, 2010 Page 7
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GoAuto NewsJohn Mellor’s
A1 in full sunA1 in full sunAudi fi nally reveals its A1 micro-hatch ahead of Geneva world debut
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Lexus CT200h to become premium compact segment’s fi rst full hybridBy MARTON PETTENDY
LEXUS has confi rmed its fi rst small car
will be named CT200h when the all-
new dedicated hybrid model goes on sale
globally next year.
The Japanese luxury brand’s inaugural
rival for the likes of BMW’s 1 Series and
the Audi A3 has been partly revealed via
an image of its rear quarter showing the
nameplate of Lexus’ fourth model line.
Previewed at last September’s Frankfurt
motor show by the LF-Ch concept, the CT200h
is expected on sale in Australia in early 2011.
Priced from under $50,000, the dedicated
hybrid hatchback is expected to become the
top-selling Lexus model in Australia.
However, based on the tightly cropped
teaser image, the CT200h production car
– which will make its world debut at the
Geneva motor show on March 2 – appears
to bear little resemblance to the fi ve-door
LF-Ch show car.
FULL STORY: CLICK HERE
By MARTON PETTENDYWE SAW the concepts, the design sketches,
the production version’s air vents, LED
running lights and some of its interior, and
we have even seen the Brussels factory in
which Audi’s all-new A1 micro-hatch will
be produced.
Now the Volkswagen Group has staged
the much-anticipated web debut of its
premium brand’s fi rst direct rival for BMW’s
Mini, revealing the pint-sized three-door
hatchback in its entirety last week for the
fi rst time ahead of its global public debut in
the metal at Geneva on March 2.
Due on sale in Australia early next year, the
A1 is expected to eventually spawn a complete
family of model derivatives, including fi ve-
door (as previewed by the A1 Sportback
concept) and convertible body styles, plus S1
and even RS1 hot-hatch iterations.
For now, the three-door VW Polo-based
A1, which like the born-again British Mini
will be both “sporty and customisable”, will
be the smallest Audi model ever sold in
Australia, which never received the German
brand’s discontinued A2.
A new-generation version of the latter is
also expected to be forthcoming, despite the
A1’s positioning at the bottom of the range
below the A3 small hatch.
However, while the A1 is designed to
attract a whole new (younger) breed of
buyers to the burgeoning Audi brand, it is
not expected to signifi cantly undercut the
price of the A3 three-door, which currently
opens at $34,700, while the Mini Cooper
three-door starts at $31,100.
As expected, the A1’s compact four-seat
interior will come with the latest automotive
infotainment functions like Bluetooth
connectivity, auxiliary inputs for portable
music players and other features from Audi’s
vastly more expensive luxury car range.
Just as promised by both the Metroproject
and Sportback show cars, the production A1,
which has a drag coeffi cient of 0.32Cd, can
be had with a variety of contrasting roof-arch
paint colours and various seat trim hues.
Also similar to the concepts is the production
car’s overall length of 3950mm, making it
about 250mm longer than the Mini hatch and
giving it more than 100 litres of extra boot
space, at 267 litres. That extends to 920 litres
with the split-folding rear seats down.
FULL STORY: CLICK HERE
A1 TO MULTIPLY AUDI SALES: CLICK HERE
Feb 17, 2010 Page 8
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GoAuto NewsJohn Mellor’s
PROTON IS EXPANDING ITS DEALER NETWORK• Proton has released Australia’s lowest priced new car
– The New S16 is $11,990 drive away • Proton recently launched a new range of price leader
vehicles for the Satria Neo, Persona & Gen.2 • Proton achieved over 220% sales increase in December
2009 & over 100% in January 2010 • Proton has already started expanding its dealer network
with new dealers recently appointed in SA, QLD, WA & NSW • Proton sponsorships continue to grow in 2010 including
NRL Wests Tigers, Miss Universe Australia, Top Gear & Safe Drive Training
• Proton recently launched its new website www.proton.com.au
New car dealers can send an expression of interest to falconer@proton.com.au or alternatively call Billy Falconer on (02) 8707 2707
EXORA 7-SEATER COMING IN 2010
2010 | Year of the Tiger
Sublime Sublime limolimo
Audi is determined to ensure its all-new A8 fl agship will be an unqualifi ed success
By BYRON MATHIOUDAKIS in SPAINAUDI believes its forthcoming Audi A8
fl agship must sway more buyers away from
the Mercedes-Benz S-class and BMW 7
Series if it is to succeed in Australia.
Speaking at the launch of the all-new
D4-series limousine in Spain last week,
Audi spokesperson Anna Burgdorf revealed
that Audi AG in Germany now expects the
A8 to start making the same sort of inroads
in its market segment as the A3, A4, A5 and
TT have in their respective classes over the
past few years.
All helped Audi to record more than 60
consecutive months of sales growth in
Australia, resulting in more than 11,300
sales for the fi rst time in 2009. Upwards of
12,000 units are forecast for 2010.
Yet the company struggled to shift 50
examples of its A8 sedan last year.
While a redesigned and re-engineered
F01-generation 7 Series and facelifted
W221 S-class did not help Audi’s plight,
the outgoing model never achieved the
sales success expected from it, particularly
considering the generally positive reviews
the D3-series garnered.
Now Audi is quietly hoping for at least
100 buyers every year in Australia, and
signifi cantly more when extra variants come
on stream from the end of the year.
The current model has averaged just below
80 sales a year in its seven-year lifespan,
compared to S-class’ average of 345 units – and
the 7 Series on 270 – over the same period.
“The A8 is strategically important not
just for sales growth but for brand prestige,”
Ms Burgdorf said. “It’s the area we would
like to improve in most. The current A8 is a
great car but it has always been outsold by
the competition.”
Audi will not reveal D4-series A8 prices
until closer to its mid-year launch date, but
a “compelling value story” will be a leading
driver of increased sales.
Do not expect cheaper prices, though,
since more standard features, in a car that is
improved in every area, means the existing
A8 4.2 TDI quattro’s $211,400 ask will
probably be eclipsed when the D4 arrives.
At launch there will be just two well-
specifi ed A8 4.2-litre V8 models – the TDI
(diesel) and the FSI (petrol).
The former – powered by an evolution of the
existing 4134cc common-rail direct-injection
turbocharged engine – delivers 258kW of
power at 4000rpm and no less than 800Nm of
torque from between 1750 and 2750rpm.
It uses just 7.6L/100km on the Australian
combined average cycle, hits 100km/h from
standstill in 5.5 seconds, and emits 199g/
km of CO2 emissions. Audi engineers have
achieved a 19 per cent fuel consumption
drop in the new diesel, partly due to a new
eight-speed automatic gearbox.
Continued next page
Feb 17, 2010 Page 9
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GoAuto NewsJohn Mellor’s
Sublime limoSublime limo20
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16 & 17 March 2010Grand Hyatt, Melbourne
Phone: 03 9866 6056Email: info@afma.net.auWeb: www.afma.net.au
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Continued from previous pageThe petrol unit, in contrast, is 4163cc in
size, develops 273kW at 6800rpm, 445Nm at
3500rpm, drinks premium unleaded petrol at
a rate of 9.5L/100km, is 0.2 seconds slower to
100km/h and pumps out 219g/km of CO2. Audi
also says the new petrol V8 model consumes
13 per cent less fuel than its predecessor.
An A8 3.0 TDI quattro is due by the end of
2010, powered by a 2967cc common-rail V6
turbo-diesel that produces 184kW and 550Nm,
returns 6.6L/100km, reaches 100km/h in 6.6
seconds and releases 174g/km of CO2.
More engines are on their way – including a
V6 petrol of around 3.2 litres in size – but the
3.0 TDI quattro will be the entry-level new-
generation A8 for the foreseeable future.
A long-wheelbase version will be unveiled
at the Beijing motor show in April, and this
is expected to arrive in 2011. Whether it
will be available in all models is undecided,
but the 3.0 TDI quattro version is likely to
come here since the combination of extra
rear space and a lower entry price makes the
stretched A8 version relatively popular with
some limousine companies.
However, given Audi Australia’s
quattro AWD-only policy, the special
eco-friendly 3.0 TDI version with 150kW
and a segment-busting 6.0L/100km and
159g/km will most likely not make it to
Australia, as this model will be front-
drive-only in order to keep weight down.
The A8 Hybrid, to be released later this
year, will be aimed predominantly at the US
market and so is also unlikely for Australian
consumption.
Besides quattro, all Australian-bound A8
models will include a new ZF eight-speed
Tiptronic automatic transmission and air
suspension.
The latter has been described by one
Audi engineer as being “cherry picked”
from various specialists to achieve the
Ingolstadt fi rm’s goal of class-best ride
while maintaining the current A8’s “top
level” dynamic capabilities.
Meanwhile, the 4.2 TDI quattro and
4.2 FSI quattro models will include LED
driving lights, 22-way adjustable front
seats (with a massage function and heating
and ventilation), heated rear seats, a ‘sport’
differential that varies the amount of torque
allocated between the rear wheels, an
interior ambient lighting package and MMI
Navigation Plus satellite-navigation.
The latter contains route-reading abilities
that ‘prepare’ many of the advanced driver-
assist systems, such as radar cruise control
and automatic headlights.
Also standard will be arguably the new A8’s
most impressive showroom crowd-puller, the
MMI Touch hand-writing recognition system
for the sat-nav and phone applications. The
objective here is to help the driver keep his/
her eyes and attention span on the road rather
than down in the console area.
FULL STORY AND DRIVE IMPRESSIONS: CLICK HERE
See EVENT REGISTRATION FORM back page
Feb 17, 2010 Page 10
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GoAuto NewsJohn Mellor’s
Aston Martin rolls out red carpet for potential Aussie Rapide buyers
Aston Rapide arrivesAston Rapide arrives
AUTOMOTIVE HOLDINGS GROUPDealer Principal
Automotive Holdings Group is Australia’s largest automotive group with 9 of the top 10 automotive brands in Australia, over 100 dealerships and employing over 3,500 people throughout Australia and New Zealand with a group turnover in excess of $3 billion per annum.
An opportunity has arisen within our NSW Group for a highly motivated and successful Dealer Principal in the Western Sydney area.
Reporting to the COO, this position is primarily responsible and accountable for the day to day running of a dealership including meeting budget expectations, ensuring profitability, reporting, driving outcomes, people management and maintaining franchisee relationships.
To be considered you must have the following essential attributes:
with a minimum of 2 years in a Dealer Principal role;
a sales environment;
If you are self motivated and would like to be part of our dynamic and successful team, then you are invited to submit your application to:
bmcintyre@nsw.ahg.com.au
ASX Listed Company Successful Group with solid future Attractive remuneration package
Applications are strictly confidential and close on Friday 26th February
By MARTON PETTENDYASTON Martin expects the fi rst in a series
of invitation-only “customer, prospect and
depositor” preview events – to take place
in Melbourne this Friday – to signifi cantly
boost Australian interest in the bespoke
British brand’s fi rst four-door model.
Due to be offi cially launched in late June
before fi rst deliveries occur in July, the
Rapide grand tourer has already attracted 19
fi rm Australian orders (and a further seven in
New Zealand) and more than 40 interested
parties awaiting an opportunity to view
the vehicle – despite an offi cial pricetag of
$366,280 plus on-road costs.
In contrast, the Rapide’s most direct rival,
Porsche’s four-door Panamera – which
ranges between $270,200 for the Panamera
S PDK and $364,900 for the Panamera
Turbo PDK – has found 50 homes since
going on sale here last October.
Aston Martin’s Australia, New Zealand
and South Africa operations manager,
Marcel Fabris, said anywhere between 30
and 50 Rapides were expected to be sold in
Australia in its fi rst full year, from a global
annual production run of 2000 vehicles.
“The Rapide is very much an unknown
quantity for Aston Martin, so while we’ve
got an idea of the interest we think it should
attract, we thought we’d leave it open and
let the market decide. If there’s a need for
more cars there is a facility to provide for
that,” he said.
“We don’t want people waiting
years and years, so we could ramp up
production for Australia or fi nd cars
from elsewhere. In a perfect world there
would be no more than a fi ve to nine-
month wait.”
The fi rst in a rolling roadshow of
regional dealer events to preview the
Rapide in most Australian capital cities
will take place in Melbourne on Friday,
followed by Sydney on February 25,
Brisbane on March 9, the Gold Coast on
March 11 and Adelaide on March 23.
For the money, Australia’s Rapide will
come standard with a 350kW/600Nm
6.0-litre V12 engine driving through a
rear-mounted ZF six-speed Touchtronic
2 automatic transmission, plus adaptive
suspension damping and a 1000-Watt Bang
& Olufsen sound system.
As GoAuto reported following its global
production debut at the Frankfurt motor
show in September, the Rapide will be both
the fi rst Aston Martin four-door and the fi rst
to be built in a new 17,000 square-metre
production facility at sub-contractor Magna
Steyr’s plant in Graz, Austria.
Billed as the world’s most elegant four-
door sportscar, the Rapide is based on a
stretched version of the four-seat DB9
coupe’s aluminium platform, offering
signifi cantly more rear legroom despite
being just 254mm longer and 63.5mm taller
than the DB9.
FULL STORY: CLICK HERE
Feb 17, 2010 Page 11
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GoAuto NewsJohn Mellor’s
Nissan’s long-awaited new-generation Patrol turns up in Abu Dhabi
Find out more by contacting David Sprague1300 041 177 or research@datamotive.com.au
PARC Data: Easily accessible & cleansed data - ready to use!
• Access all registered makes & models by postcode in all states• All makes & models matched with RedBook code• Quickly pinpoint high and low demand areas• Access the opportunities for your PMA and beyond
By MARTON PETTENDYTHE wait is fi nally over for Patrol fans,
with Nissan staging the world debut of its
fi rst all-new full-size SUV in more than a
dozen years at the Abu Dhabi motor show in
the United Arab Emirates last weekend.
Due to replace the aged GU-series Patrol
next year in Australia, where Nissan’s
stalwart off-road wagon has remained
basically unchanged since December 1997,
Nissan says the redesigned Patrol will be
the most powerful vehicle in its class thanks
to a bristling new 298kW/550Nm direct-
injection 5.6-litre petrol V8.
For now, there is no mention of a diesel
version, but Nissan is sure to provide a
replacement for the current Patrol’s staple
engine, the 118kW oil-burning 3.0-litre
four-cylinder.
Nissan Australia says it is currently
awaiting advice on right-hand drive
specifi cation and production dates for a
vehicle its parent company says will deliver
fresh new styling, superior packaging, a
powerful but economical V8 engine, clever
off-road technologies and higher levels of
luxury and comfort.
“We are into a launch countdown, but it
won’t be this year,” said spokesman Jeff
Fisher.
Wrapped in an all-new, larger and more
contemporary bodyshell is a host of new
technologies, a revised four-wheel drive
system and the new Patrol’s headline
powertrain – the new VK56VD-series
5.6-litre V8 – mated to a new seven-speed
automatic transmission.
It will replace the Patrol’s 180kW 4.8-
litre inline petrol six and fi ve-speed auto
combination, eclipsing Nissan’s direct
answer to Toyota’s relatively new 200
Series LandCruiser, which comes with
202kW/410Nm 4.7-litre petrol V8 and
195kW/650Nm 4.5-litre diesel V8 engine
options.
Whether the seventh generation of the
Patrol, which is currently priced at just
$53,190, will be able to claw back the sales
dominance of the LandCruiser, which is now
priced vastly higher from $77,500, remains
to be seen.
Last year, Toyota sold some 7755
examples of the 200 Series wagon, which
despite a 24 per cent sales slide represented
a 70 per cent share of the large SUV
market segment.
Meantime, Nissan sold less than
half that number of Patrols, with 3089
sales (29 per cent down) representing
just 28 per cent of what is now a two-
horse race following the demise of
Jeep’s seven-seat Commander SUV.
Billed “reliable, unbreakable,
affordable” and revealed in the same week
as Nissan’s pint-sized Juke mini-SUV was
previewed ahead of its Geneva motor show
debut on March 2, Nissan says its new
Patrol is the product of fi ve decades of off-
road vehicle development.
“This off-road trendsetter was one of the
fi rst dedicated four-wheel drive vehicles
in the climatically demanding Middle East
region, and boasts the notable distinction of
also being the fi rst vehicle to successfully
cross the gruelling Simpson Desert in
Australia back in 1962,” said Nissan.
Nissan says the MkVII Patrol incorporates
a new ladder-chassis platform, signifi cantly
enhanced interior comfort and luxury, powerful
new V8 engines, a seven-speed automatic
transmissions and a new 4WD system,
wrapped in a radical new exterior design.
“We paid special attention to the needs of
current Patrol owners, and their passengers,
and so focused on creating fi rst-class levels
of comfort for the whole family,” said
Patrol project leader Hiroyuki Fushiki.
“Heightened luxury, a roomier cabin and a
quieter ride combine to achieve this goal,
while maintaining Patrol’s superior off-
road heritage.”
FULL STORY: CLICK HEREBaby Juke is no joke – page 14
Back onBack on Patrol Patrol
Volkswagen Group Australia is seeking an
enthusiastic, experienced Dealer Business
Manager to join its Sydney based Commercial
Vehicles team. If you have the expertise, passion
and potential to excel in an automotive distributor
environment, we would love to hear from you.
The successful candidate will partner with
Commercial Vehicles dealers to achieve volume
and market share. You will be responsible for the
development, training and ongoing business
improvement of the Volkswagen Commercial
Vehicles Dealer Network in conjunction with the
National Sales Manager and three other Dealer
Business Managers.
You will conduct regular dealer visits for your
assigned territory in order to actively monitor
performance of your dealerships – these visits
include dealer business reporting (covering sales
volume, market share, profitability) and business
trend analysis whilst also understanding market
trends and competitive activity.
You will partner with your dealers to develop and
implement business improvement plans that address
opportunities identified above in order to ensure
achievement of overall dealer objectives. Previous
experience in an area manager or territory
manager role is essential with automotive industry
experience highly regarded.
Dealer Business ManagerVolkswagen Commercial Vehicles
For information on this role, call Amanda Lintott from Career Driven on (02) 9699 3144 or email your application to alintott@careerdriven.com.au
With exciting new products being launched in 2010including the new Amarok utility vehicle, there is no greater time to join Volkswagen.
CommercialVehicles
Feb 17, 2010 Page 13
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GoAuto NewsJohn Mellor’s
Citroen’s ‘High Rider’ emerges as the second member of its DS clan
‘DS4’ to the fore‘DS4’ to the fore
Sales and Marketing Roles
A career with Honda is a career with an innovative, award-winning automotive brand, with an international presence in almost 200 countries. Careers at Honda encourage you to exercise unique ideas and challenge conventional everyday thinking.
ADVERTISING MANAGER • Identify, develop and evaluate strategic marketing communications across multiple channels; • Manage all ATL advertising (including brand, product and retail) campaigns within budget and agreed time lines;• Effective management of the Advertising department and multiple agencies; and• Minimum 7 years relevant experience in marketing required.
DEALER DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANT MANAGER• Ensure Honda dealerships maintain a high quality brand image that complies with corporate standards and speci cations by ongoing
project and asset control;• Provide accurate Prime Market Area sales and market trends to optimise Dealer activities in line with Honda’s dealer network strategy;• Assist in developing a strong, pro table dealer network.
Candidates for both roles will have exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills. A strong strategic ability is required along with excellent presentation and a high attention to detail. You will further demonstrate an ability to work in a dynamic environment, handle priorities, meet deadlines and effectively coordinate project deliverables. Appropriate tertiary quali cations are preferred. There will also be a component of travel in these roles.
If you would like further information regarding these positions please visit www.honda.com.au and follow the links to the career page. For a fantastic opportunity to contribute to a major international player, apply now! An attractive remuneration package is offered inclusive of a fully maintained vehicle.
Please forward your resumé quoting reference #010210A to: Human Resources, Honda Australia, Locked Bag 95, Tullamarine VIC 3043. Or via e-mail to: careers@honda.com.au
Applications close Wednesday 24th February 2010.
– Strong Stakeholder Engagement– Attractive Salary Package with Honda Vehicle– Melbourne Head Office, Tullamarine Location
Honda Australia is an Equal Opportunity Employer www.honda.com.au
By MARTON PETTENDYWE HAVE seen Citroen’s answer to the
Mini in the shape of the stylish new DS3,
which is based on the next-generation C3 –
both of which will go on sale in Australia in
the third quarter of this year – and now the
French brand has revealed what is expected
to become the DS4.
Based on the same platform as Citroen’s
all-new C4 small car – itself due to surface
later this year – the DS4 will be previewed
at the Geneva motor show on March 2 as the
‘DS High Rider’ concept.
However, rather than being a more
premium version of the C4, as the DS3 is
to the C3, the DS4 will put Citroen in the
same small crossover territory soon to be
occupied by the upcoming Nissan Juke and
Mini Countryman, if the latest DS show car
is any guide.
While the DS3 is essentially a sportier,
more upmarket version of the next C3 with
unique styling, the High Rider show car
indicates the DS4 will be an even more
individualised and luxurious entrant within
the C4 range – which currently comprises
hatchback and Picasso people-mover models
– complete with taller ride height.
The four-seat, three-door concept, which
is expected to gain an extra seat and two
doors by the time it reaches production next
year, is taller and wider than the current C4
hatch at 1480mm and 1820mm respectively,
though it is slightly shorter at 4260mm.
Also borrowing styling cues from the
2005 C-SportLounge concept, the High
Rider’s front end closely resembles that of
the smaller DS3 and is expected to transfer
directly into production, minus the show
car’s radical foglights, 19-inch alloy wheels
and fabric-covered roof.
Engines for next year’s DS4, which
should be followed later in 2011 by the
C5-based DS5, should come directly from
the C4, and a version of the High Rider’s
diesel-electric hybrid drivetrain is also
certain to make production.
FULL STORY: CLICK HERE
Feb 17, 2010 Page 14
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GoAuto NewsJohn Mellor’s
Nissan hits out at ‘safe, sober’ small-car market with the Juke crossover
Baby Juke is no jokeBaby Juke is no joke
MERCURY MARINE REGIONAL MANAGER – NSW
> Distribution of Market leading brands such as Mercury Outboards, MerCruiser, Quicksilver parts & Inflatables, Bermuda accessories
> Opportunity to lead a small team within the branch
> Take responsibility for key Dealers in NSW region
> Multinational parent company – Brunswick Corporation
Reporting to the Director of Sales, you will focus on motivating a small team of seasoned employees in Sales, Service & administration. This will involve being a hands on Sales Manager to maximise opportunities within an existing customer base, potential new dealers and related organisations alongside taking responsibility for the overall leadership at the branch office level.
A target driven environment must suit your approach and with success will come opportuinities for future leadership roles within the business both with Australia & overseas.
In order to be considered for this role you will have a business/marketing/ technical qualification. Also 3-5 years strong sales & people management skills gained from a power equipment, automotive, motorcycle or similar sectors with focus on dealership, service and engineering product sales and have evidence of leading your team to accomplish strong results.
The position will be based in Sydney NSW South Western suburbs and involves considerable travel within NSW and regular or occasional travel within Australia/overseas. To apply please email your resume in confidence to: recruitment@mercmarine.com
By TERRY MARTINNISSAN is set to broaden its portfolio of
crossover vehicles with the new sub-Dualis
Juke, moving into a mini-SUV segment with
a model it describes as a “funky alternative
to the conventional urban hatchback”.
Not on the agenda for release in Australia
at this stage, the Juke has emerged in
production trim from Nissan’s European
design centre in London (after some
refi nement at head offi ce in Japan) ahead
of its world premiere at the Geneva motor
show on March 2 and its European release
in the fi nal quarter of 2010.
Just as the Murano was built as a city
slicker, and the Dualis followed as a crossover
competing with traditional small cars, the
even smaller Juke has the same high-riding
sports fl avour but with exaggerated, blokey
body styling which is in stark contrast to
other models in the “sober, safe” (Nissan’s
words) B-segment.
That much is evident in the fi rst offi cial
pictures released last week ahead of the
Swiss show.
But to ram home the point, Nissan’s press
material is peppered with references to the
Juke’s “tough solid body”, “maverick design”
and “masculinity and dynamism”, while the
designers admit to drawing inspiration from
rally cars and motorcycles – and the cabin’s
high-gloss centre dash stack is meant to look
like a motorcycle fuel tank.
Unsurprisingly, Nissan says two thirds
of its sales in Europe are expected to come
from “urbanite male customers” who are
“disillusioned at the lack of excitement in
the small-car sector in Europe”.
“Juke brings a sense of adventure to
the car market – it’s light, nimble, urban,
reactive: qualities designed to grab a
younger audience,” said Nissan Motor Co
senior vice-president of product planning,
Andy Palmer. “It offers something entirely
different to the traditional B-segment
vehicles and cements Nissan as a car-maker
prepared to do something different.”
Where comments like that leave the Micra,
one can only imagine. There will doubtless
be a fresh barrage of spin from Nissan
when it unveils the new-generation baby car
alongside the Juke in Geneva, just ahead of its
production debut in Thailand in March/April.
Nissan Australia head of corporate
communications Jeff Fisher has confi rmed
to GoAuto that the all-new Micra will debut
at Geneva, with Thai-built versions to reach
Australia in the fourth quarter.
As for the Juke, which will be built in
England and Japan, Mr Fisher said: “Juke
is not in the plan at the moment – but we’re
watching.”
The Juke is built off the same Renault
Nissan Alliance B-Platform as the Micra
and other models such as the Renault Clio
– an architecture that enters a new stage,
beginning with the new Micra, known
as the V-Platform – but the crossover’s
underpinnings have been lengthened,
widened and strengthened.
It has a 2530mm wheelbase, and measures
4135mm long, 1765mm wide and 1570mm
high. To enable the fi tment of 17-inch wheels
and 215/55-section rubber, the front and rear
track have also been widened to 1525mm.
FULL STORY: CLICK HERE
Feb 17, 2010 Page 15
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GoAuto NewsJohn Mellor’s
VW’s new SUV is vastly lighter and more effi cient, but hybrid off Oz agenda
Trim, terrifi c TouaregTrim, terrifi c Touareg
Build your future leadersLast chance to registerThere are only a few places left in our Academy of Excellence Program scheduled for 8 – 11 March 2010, Sydney.
The Academy of Excellence is a four day intensive program aimed at improving the all round management and operational skills of:
• Anyone being groomed to be a General Manager/Dealer Principal• Anyone who wants to be a General Manager• Anyone currently in the role who wants to better themselves and obtain a more ‘all-round
knowledge’ on the things that matter to be a successful operator• Attendee numbers are limited and places will be fi lled on a ‘fi rst come fi rst served basis’.
For further details and to secure your position click here
Dale McCauley Rachael TomkinsDirector Training Coordinator Tel: +61 (0) 2 9322 7277 Tel: +61 (0) 2 9322 3651email: dmccauley@deloitte.com.au email: rtomkins@deloitte.com.au
By MARTON PETTENDYVOLKSWAGEN has peeled the wraps
off its second-generation Touareg SUV,
gazumping the German giant’s newest
brand Porsche, whose closely related MkII
Cayenne will also make its world premiere
at the Geneva motor show on March 2.
Described as the most technically advanced
VW ever, the redesigned luxury SUV, which
goes on sale in Australia in 2011, is headlined
by weight reductions of up to 208kg and
effi ciency gains of nearly 20 per cent.
The latter is aided by a new range of
engines, but the starring powertrain role is
played by an all-new petrol-electric hybrid
drive system that will not initially be made
available in Australia.
“We think that with the improvements in
fuel consumption brought about by weight
reductions and more effi cient engines the
demand for a hybrid version won’t warrant
its inclusion in the new range at this stage,”
said Volkswagen Group Australia spokesman
Karl Gehling.
In contrast, Porsche’s new Cayenne –
including a hybrid version – is also expected
to emerge at Geneva before going on sale in
Australia before the end of this year.
Volkswagen says the new Touareg is
“the fi rst and only off-roader in Europe by
a German car-maker to be available in a
hybrid version too”.
Like the Cayenne Hybrid, the full two-
mode parallel-drive hybrid version of the
next Touareg can be driven at up to 50km/h
in full-electric emissions-free mode. It is
claimed to return average fuel consumption
of just 8.2 litres per 100km – “the best value
in the segment of genuine SUVs”.
With the new Touareg V6 TDI diesel said
to return an even lower 7.4L/100km average,
Volkswagen says the Touareg Hybrid and
V6 TDI are “the most fuel-effi cient petrol
and diesel SUVs ever built in Europe in this
large vehicle class”.
Both V6 models will also come with an
automatic idle-stop system, which shuts off
the engine at standstill and restarts it as soon
as the driver releases the brake pedal.
The fi tment of an eight-speed automatic
transmission as standard across the range
– which Volkswagen claims is “a fi rst in
this market segment”, despite BMW fi tting
the same number of ratios to its facelifted
X5, due here mid-year – is claimed to help
deliver fuel economy advances of up to
2L/100km on some models.
FULL STORY: CLICK HEREMore reports – page 19, 20
Feb 17, 2010 Page 16
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GoAuto NewsJohn Mellor’s
Hyundai i-fl ow concept previews Euro-oriented medium-size i40 sedan
Audi, BMW, Daihatsu, Mercedes, Subaru, Toyota, Motorcycles, Trucks, Off Road
Attractive Introductory Prices and quick implement including upgrade from other DMSContact: Steve Bungay – (03) 9886 7322steve@envisionit.com.auwww.envisionit.com.au/Autoline
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Acclaimed International Product with Local roots (Kerridge) and conforming to Australian Laws
Reliability of Linux with Windows type GUI
State of the Art, Decades Mature Product from ADP DSI and legendary Support from Envision IT
Fully Integrated and covers complete operations Sales, Service, Parts, Accounts, Showroom
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By MARTON PETTENDYPROTON and Giugiaro have jointly
revealed the concept version of a striking
new city-car that will become the Malaysian
national car-maker’s fi rst hybrid model.
Expected to go on sale around the world
– including in Australia – next year, the
as-yet-unnamed vehicle will be previewed
by a show car to debut at the Geneva motor
show on March 2.
The smartly-styled fi ve-door hatchback,
which is just 3550mm long (160mm shorter
than Proton’s range-opening Savvy) and
features four identical and independently
sliding seats, was designed by the ItalDesign
Giugiaro design studio.
Expected to closely resemble the
forthcoming production version, it is built
on a new Giugiaro-designed platform
featuring a higher than usual roofl ine
and fl oorpan to accommodate the hybrid
system’s rear-mounted lithium-ion battery
pack while offering cabin space that is
claimed to match many mid-size vehicles.
The hybrid system incorporates a front-
mounted internal combustion engine to
charge the batteries which, in a similar
arrangement to GM’s Volt plug-in hybrid,
drive the front wheels exclusively at all
times.
Full details and more images are expected
to be released at Geneva, but for now
Giugiaro claims Proton’s new mini-car is
“set to revolutionise traditional segmentation
in the car market” because it was “developed
with the aim of optimising the available
onboard space and car access ergonomics”.
FULL STORY: CLICK HERE
Proton produces its fi rst-ever hybrid car
By MARTON PETTENDYHYUNDAI has issued the fi rst image of a
concept that is expected to morph into an
all-new rival for the Ford Mondeo in Europe
– and possibly Australia.
The sleek ‘i-fl ow’ concept, which will
make its world debut at the Geneva motor
show on March 2, previews the VF-series
mid-size sedan, which is based on the
same platform as this year’s new YF-series
replacement for the Sonata and is expected
to be labelled the i40.
Already released successfully in Korea,
the YF Sonata will go on sale in Australia by
mid-year under a new name, while Hyundai
will investigate the viability of adding the
sportier sedan to its Australian range.
Hyundai has revealed little about the i-fl ow,
apart from confi rming that it “previews
the look of its new D-segment (mid-size)
saloon” and that the concept, designed at the
company’s European design headquarters
at Russelsheim in Germany, incorporates
lightweight materials developed by chemical
company BASF.
However, former Hyundai Motor Co
Australia sales and marketing director Kevin
McCann has previously revealed the Korean
car-maker would embark on a two-pronged
mid-size model strategy, with the Euro-
oriented VF set to bring R-Series diesel
power while the US-directed YF, which will
also be produced in North America this year,
will be manufactured with 2.0 and 2.4-litre
petrol engines.
“The global strategy is that the YF will
essentially be built for the North American and
Asian markets and will therefore only have
petrol engines,” Mr McCann told GoAuto
in late October. “The VF, which is a car that
will come about 12 months later on the same
platform, is intended for European markets
and that will have a diesel alternative.
“We’re defi nitely taking the YF and
the jury is out on the VF. We’ll make the
decision based on what it is, when we know
more about it, probably after the next round
of product meetings, which happen on a
twice-a-year basis.”
More reports – page 18, 22, 24
NEW LOOK FOR RAV4TOYOTA has revealed its intention to
stage world debuts of a facelifted RAV4
and the new Corolla hybrid at the Geneva
motor show on March 2. While a facelifted
version of the RAV is expected to go on
sale in Australia later this year, the new-
look 2010 model shown here is based on
Europe’s short-wheelbase model rather
than the LWB version sold in Australia
and the US.
FULL STORY: CLICK HERE
Flow-on effectFlow-on effect
Feb 17, 2010 Page 17
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GoAuto NewsJohn Mellor’s
Volvo issues full details of its ‘best car ever’
S60 in detailS60 in detail
By TERRY MARTINVOLVO’S new-generation S60 prestige
sedan remains on track for a launch in
Australia in December, following its long-
awaited world debut at the Geneva motor
show next month and, during the second
quarter, its shift in ownership from the Ford
Motor Co to Chinese manufacturer Geely.
Although images of the production version
were released last November, the Swedish
marque has now issued full details and more
images of the medium-sized sedan ahead of
its premiere in Switzerland on March 2.
There are few surprises, but much to look
forward to, with confi rmation that the sleek
new Belgium-built S60 will be the fi rst Volvo
fi tted with a new 2.0-litre direct-injection
turbocharged engine – fi rst details of which
were released late last month – and should be
competitive in terms of design, packaging,
new technologies and performance.
As GoAuto has reported previously,
Volvo’s most signifi cant new model to
appear in 2010 will be offered in Australia
with its world-fi rst pedestrian collision
prevention system, which uses radar and
camera technology to detect objects on a
crash course with the vehicle.
“We are truly proud of our success in making
our technology so reliable that we can offer a
complete system that can avoid a collision
with a pedestrian by detecting, alerting and
applying full braking,” said Volvo Cars senior
safety adviser Thomas Broberg.
“It’s a world fi rst, to the best of our
knowledge. With this technology we have
increased the braking force in our automatic
braking system from 50 per cent to full
stopping power.”
The S60 will also be the fi rst Volvo
sedan with ‘Advanced Stability Control’
(ASC) that includes a new roll-angle sensor
designed to detect a loss of traction at an
earlier stage. According to Volvo, this means
the standard Dynamic Stability and Traction
Control (DSTC) system can step in earlier
and with greater precision.
Corner Traction Control (CTC) also debuts
on the sedan, which is a further refi nement
of DSTC and uses torque vectoring to
improve cornering and reduce understeer.
CTC allows the inner wheel to be braked
during cornering at the same time as power
is transmitted to the outer wheel.
FULL STORY: CLICK HERE
Peugeot previews 508 with Geneva ‘5’ concept
By MARTON PETTENDYLAST week Peugeot offi cially uncovered the
Chinese-built, 308 Touring-based 408 sedan
and now it has staged the equally surprising
reveal of the ‘5 by Peugeot’ concept, which
previews the car that will replace both its
mid-size 407 and large 607 sedans.
Also previewing the diesel-electric
hybrid drive system that will be launched
globally and in Australia in the 3008
Hybrid4 in 2011, the 5 by Peugeot will
make its global debut at the Geneva motor
show on March 2.
As in the hybrid 3008 – which will
be launched here within months with
conventional petrol and diesel drivetrains,
and should be joined by a plug-in version
in 2012 – the 5 by Peugeot is motivated
by the combination of a front-mounted
122kW 2.0-litre HDi FAP diesel engine
and a rear-mounted 28kW electric motor.
The arrangement gives both the 3008
and the sleek new sedan concept an AWD
confi guration with a peak output of 150kW,
and is claimed to produce average CO2
emissions of less than 99g/km – or zero
when driven in all-electric mode.
“(The) ‘5 by Peugeot’ is further proof
of Peugeot’s environmental strategy,” said
Peugeot. “The modular technology of the
Hybrid4 system can be combined with a
range of naturally aspirated engines ... and
can be fi tted to different body shapes and
different platforms.”
FULL STORY: CLICK HERE
Feb 17, 2010 Page 18
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GoAuto NewsJohn Mellor’s
Hyundai heads upmarket, offers petrol/diesel choice with impressive new ix35
ix35 is Tucson elixirix35 is Tucson elixir
By JAMES STANFORDHYUNDAI Motor Co Australia has pushed
its representative in the busy compact SUV
segment more upmarket with a dramatic
new design, advanced powertrains, a new
name and a price increase.
The South Korean marque has ditched the
top-selling Tucson tag, which is still used in the
US, in favour for the iPod-inspired European
title, ix35, linking it with models such as the
iMax, iLoad, i30 and upcoming i20.
It has also moved away from the more
traditional SUV shape of the previous
model, opting for a bolder design with more
pronounced shoulders and lines, which is
part of a new styling language Hyundai calls
‘Fluidic Sculpture’.
Prices have moved upstream, too, and
although the make-up of the range is
different, increases of between $500 and
$1500 are now payable.
The entry price for the new model is
$26,990 – up from $25,490 for the equivalent
front-drive Tucson City 2.0-litre manual –
while the most affordable AWD ix35 costs
$31,990, $500 more than before.
The fi ve-seater iX35 is new from the ground
up, built on a body which comprises 68.9 per
cent high-tensile steel for improved stiffness.
The ix35 runs Hyundai’s new Theta II
four-cylinder petrol engines, in both 2.0-litre
and 2.4-litre guises, as well as a diesel engine
for the fi rst time.
The base engine is again a 2.0-litre petrol
four, this time weighing 10kg less and
producing more performance, with peak
power rising from 104kW to 122kW and
maximum torque
moving up from
184Nm to 197Nm.
Available only
in the entry-level
front-drive Active
model, the 2.0-litre
petrol engine employs a two-stage variable
inlet manifold and features variable exhaust
camshaft phasing.
A fi ve-speed manual is standard fi t, but
a six-speed automatic transmission is now
available as a $2000 option on the base
engine – and standard on all other models.
Replacing a four-speed automatic, the
new transmission is a conventional torque
converter-style automatic developed in-
house by Hyundai engineers.
Hyundai says it is the smallest and lightest
six-speed automatic in the world. The
transmission is designed to be maintenance
free, as there is no dipstick and the fl uid is
supposed to remain in the gearbox for the
life of the vehicle.
A Theta II 2.4-litre four-cylinder petrol
engine replaces the ancient 2.7-litre V6 of
the previous model. Hyundai claims the new
four matches the performance feel of the old
six, but uses 16 per cent less fuel.
The new 2.4-litre four generates 130kW
and 227Nm compared to the old 2.7-litre
V6’s 129kW and 241Nm. It is available only
with the AWD Elite model and only with the
six-speed automatic
transmission.
Hyundai has also
decided to offer a
diesel iX35, making the
new premium engine
available in mid-range
Elite and range-topping Highlander versions.
The R-Series 2.0-litre four-cylinder was
developed by a team of 150 engineers with
a budget of $227 million. It uses a Bosch
common-rail system with 1800-bar of
peak pressure and features an exhaust gas
recirculation system as well as a traditional
particulate fi lter.
The diesel generates peak power outputs of
135kW and 392Nm – the latter between just
1800 and 2500rpm – and is only available
with AWD and the six-speed automatic
transmission. It is the fuel economy star of
the ix35 range, with an ADR82/02 combined
average of 7.5 litres per 100km.
FULL STORY: CLICK HEREDRIVE IMPRESSIONS: CLICK HERE
More reports – page 22, 24
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PRICING:Active 2.0 petrol 2WD $26,990
Active 2.0 petrol 2WD (a) $28,990
Elite 2.4 petrol AWD (a) $31,990
Elite 2.0 diesel AWD (a) $34,990
Highlander 2.0 diesel AWD (a) $37,990
Feb 17, 2010 Page 19
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GoAuto NewsJohn Mellor’s
VW’s fi rst ‘Australian’ Golf wagon arrives with a sub-$30,000 start price
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By PHILIP LORDVOLKSWAGEN has joined the premium
compact wagon segment with a station
wagon version of the latest MkVI Golf, with
prices starting well under the previously
envisaged $30,000 mark.
The 90TSI Trendline manual opens the
new range at $26,990 (plus statutory and
dealer delivery costs), which is just $2000
more than the equivalent fi ve-door hatch.
The remainder of the wagon range
comprises an abbreviated version of the
hatch line-up, not including the Comfortline
manual, GTI and forthcoming R models.
The Golf became available as a wagon
overseas with the introduction of the 1991
Golf III, but this is the fi rst time the model
has been offi cially sold in Australia, where
it is the fi rst small-to-medium Volkswagen
station wagon since the 1982 Passat
Wagon.
The Golf Wagon uses the Jetta
sedan platform rather than the hatch’s
underpinnings. While all three are closely
related, the rear section of the Jetta and Golf
wagon are different to the (shorter) hatch.
The wagon adds between 70kg and 160kg
over the hatch models, and is 432mm longer
than the hatch.
Volkswagen Group Australia press and
PR manager Karl Gehling said the company
would not divulge projected sales forecasts
for the Golf Wagon, saying only “we see
that there is a market there”.
Mr Gehling said the Golf Wagon will go
head-to-head with the Peugeot 308 Estate
and Hyundai i30 CW, as well as targeting
shoppers of medium wagons such as the
Mazda6 and Ford Mondeo.
The Golf Wagon is available across a
condensed version of the
hatch’s model line-up,
with two trim levels and
four engines offered.
The entry-level
Trendline is available
with a 77kW TDI
turbo-diesel engine or a
90kW TSI petrol engine. The 77kW TDI
engine comes with a fi ve-speed manual
as standard or an optional seven-speed
DSG automatic, while the 90TSI has a
six-speed manual as standard and a seven-
speed DSG as an option.
The fl agship Comfortline specifi cation
is equipped with either the 118TSI petrol
engine or the 103TDI engine.
The Trendline 90TSI develops 90kW of
power at 5000rpm and 200Nm of torque at
1500-4000rpm. It accelerates to 100km/h
in a claimed 9.9 seconds (manual and
DSG) and consumes an average
of 6.7L/100km (manual) and
6.2L/100km (DSG), while CO2
outputs are 156g/km (manual)
and 144g/km (DSG).
The Trendline 77TDI produces
77kW at 4400rpm and 250Nm at 1900-
2500rpm. Acceleration to 100km/h takes 11.9
seconds (manual and DSG) and combined
fuel consumption is 4.7L/100km (manual)
and 5.2L/100km (DSG), while CO2 outputs
are a respective 124g/km and 135g/km.
The Comfortline 118TSI develops 118kW
at 5900rpm and 240Nm at 1750-4500rpm and
accelerates to 100km/h in 8.4 seconds. The
fuel consumption average
is 6.3L/100km, with a CO2
output of 148g/km.
The Comfortline
103TDI produces 103kW
at 4200rpm and 320Nm at
1750-2500rpm and sprints
to 100km/h in 9.7 seconds.
Fuel consumption is quoted at 5.7L/100km
combined and the CO2 output is 149g/km.
Standard in both Trendline and
Comfortline are six airbags, ESP electronic
stability control, cargo net and a trip
computer.
The Wagon does not get the driver’s knee
airbag offered in hatch models as it is based
on the Jetta platform, which has not been
engineered for this additional airbag.
The Trendline has visible exhaust tips,
daytime running lights integrated into the
headlights, a dual-tone horn, body-coloured
doorhandles and mirrors and the semi-
automatic ‘Climatic’ climate-control system.
FULL STORY: CLICK HEREDRIVE IMPRESSIONS: CLICK HERE
VW transforms Passat - next page
PRICING:90TSI Trendline $26,990
90TSI Trendline (a) $29,490
77TDI Trendline $29,490
77TDI Trendline (a) $31,990
118TSI Comfortline (a) $33,990
103TDI Comfortline (a) $36,490
Feb 17, 2010 Page 20
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GoAuto NewsJohn Mellor’s
Honda slashes CR-V prices by up to $3500
2010 Passat offers new engines, more features and huge price savings
By PHILIP LORDVOLKSWAGEN has rationalised its Passat
range for 2010 with new engines, more
features and price reductions of up to $4000
in an effort to boost sales of its passenger car
fl agship in Australia, where sales slowed by
31.5 per cent last year.
Previously, the entry-level 103TDI
diesel sedan kicked off the Passat range
at $42,990, but now the petrol 118TSI
opens the restructured line-up at $38,990.
The rest of the existing range has received
price reductions of
$1000, also despite
gaining more standard
features.
Key changes to the
engine line-up include
the introduction of
VW’s 118TSI direct-
injection petrol engine
with its new seven-
speed DSG twin-clutch automated manual
transmission as the new entry point to the
Passat range, and the deletion of 103TDI
and 147TSI engines from the line-up.
The new entry-level 118TSI comes with
a 1.8-litre turbocharged engine, combined
with the seven-speed DSG as standard (all
other Passats use the six-speed DSG).
The most popular model in the Passat
range, the 2.0-litre 125TDI, now comes in
Volkswagen’s premium Highline grade with
chrome plated strips for the grille, front
foglights and 17x7.5-inch alloy wheels.
Inside, new features include Nappa leather
upholstery, sports fronts seats and brushed
aluminium trim.
The Passat V6 FSI
Highline has several
added features on its
standard equipment
list, such as 18x8.0-
inch alloy wheels,
sport suspension
(Adaptive Chassis
Control), electric
adjustment for the
front seats (with three-position memory
for the driver’s seat), Media Device
Interface (MDI) and an automatic kerb
function on the passenger’s side exterior
mirror when reversing. The Passat V6 FSI
Highline continues with its six-speed DSG
transmission and 4Motion all-wheel drive.
The premium Passat, the R36, has been
upgraded with dark tinted rear and rear-side
window glass (65 per cent light-absorbing)
and MDI.
The Passat’s options list has been
broadened for 2010 and includes Adaptive
Cruise Control with Front Assist ($2000),
Park Assist ($900, not available on R36),
Adaptive Chassis Control ($1650), Lane
Assist ($1000) and VW’s latest radio
navigation system, the RNS510 ($2500, or
$4500 with a 600-Watt audio system).
The 118TSI outputs 118kW of power at
4500rpm and 250Nm of torque at 1500-
4500rpm and its 0-100km/h claimed
acceleration fi gure is 8.5 seconds (wagon:
8.7 seconds). The offi cial fuel consumption
average is 7.7L/100km (wagon: 7.8L/100km),
with average CO2 outputs rated at 180g/km
(sedan) and 182g/km (wagon).
The 125TDI 2.0TDI engine produces
125kW at 4200rpm and 350Nm between 1750
and 2500rpm, and accelerates to 100km/h in
8.6 seconds (wagon 8.8 seconds).
FULL STORY: CLICK HEREDRIVE IMPRESSIONS: CLICK HERE
VW transforms PassatVW transforms Passat
By MARTON PETTENDYHONDA Australia has fi nally ushered in
the facelifted version of its CR-V compact
SUV, complete with price savings ranging
between $2000 and $3500.
Apart from the “aggressive repricing”,
the new-look CR-V, which is on sale in
Australia from this month after being
delayed by up to six months, comes
with “generous specifi cation upgrades”,
including the standard fi tment of full-length
side curtain airbags across the range.
There is no sign of the European model’s
new 110kW/350Nm 2.2-litre diesel engine,
with the third-generation CR-V soldiering
on solely with the current 2.4-litre i-VTEC
four-cylinder petrol engine.
However, the Thai-built small crossover
wagon does come with a signifi cant $2000
reduction at base level – not as a result
of the federal government’s fi ve per cent
import tariff reduction from 2010, because
it only affects passenger cars (not SUVs)
and Thailand already has a free-trade
agreement with Australia.
More likely, the entry-level CR-V
manual’s new list price of $30,990 (down
from $32,990) is in response to the once-
dominant model’s sales slide in 2009, when
it was a massive 48 per cent less popular
than the year before, as well as formidable
new compact SUV rivals led by Hyundai’s
just-launched Tucson-replacing ix35.
As with all Honda models, however,
metallic paint is optional on the CR-V, which
at $455 brings the base price to $31,465,
while the base CR-V auto now costs $33,290,
or $33,765 with metallic paint.
FULL STORY: CLICK HERE
SN
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PRICING:118TSI sedan (a) $38,990
118TSI wagon (a) $40,990
125TDI Highline sedan (a) $43,990
125TDI Highline wagon (a) $45,990
V6 FSI Highline AWD sedan (a) $55,990
V6 FSI Highline AWD wagon (a) $57,990
R36 AWD sedan (a) $64,990
R36 AWD wagon (a) $66,990
Feb 17, 2010 Page 21
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GoAuto NewsJohn Mellor’s
By MARTON PETTENDYSUZUKI Australia has released an upgraded
SX4 sedan and hatchback range, offering
improved performance, fuel effi ciency,
safety and convenience.
Already available in Queensland, the
midlife makeover for Suzuki’s small car –
which also comprises two new transmissions
and electronic stability control across the
range – comes with price increases averaging
1.5 per cent.
The headline act of the
2010 SX4 is Suzuki’s new
J20B 2.0-litre four-cylinder
petrol engine, which adds
variable valve timing to
boost peak power output by
fi ve per cent from 107kW
to 112kW and maximum
torque by three per cent from
184Nm to 190Nm.
The new engine features
a different cylinder block
design, plastic cylinder-head cover and
increased (10.2 v 9.5:1) compression ratio.
Suzuki says the performance gains – as
well as advances in noise, vibration and
harshness suppression – come courtesy
of lower friction levels, enhanced thermal
effi ciencies, and increased rigidity.
Matched with a new six-speed manual
transmission to replace the current fi ve-
speed unit, the new engine offers 11 per cent
better fuel consumption, at 7.3 litres per
100km, plus a 12 per cent reduction in CO2
outputs, at 170 grams per kilometre (down
from 193g/km).
Meantime, the optional new continuously
variable transmission (CVT), which Suzuki
claims brings a new level of refi nement for its
customers, improves fuel economy by 16 per
cent over the conventional automatic gearbox
it replaces, to 7.6L/100km, with average CO2
emissions reducing 17 per cent, from 215 to
178g/km.
While the new CVT
– which comes with
six preset ratios and is
operated via steering
wheel shift paddles on
the fl agship ‘S’ versions
– will be available
across the SX4 range,
ESP electronic stability
control and, on the sedan,
rear disc brakes are now
standard on the SX4. Six airbags continue
to be standard on all but the entry-level SX4
2WD hatch.
The range-topping SX4 AWD hatch
continues to be available with Suzuki’s
unique-in-class switchable three-mode
intelligent all-wheel drive (i-AWD) system,
which offers 2WD, 4WD and – at speeds of
up to 60km/h – 4WD Lock programs.
Leading the list of cosmetic updates for 2010
is the addition of a boot-lid spoiler for the SX4
sedan, while both the entry-level 2WD hatch
and AWD hatch offer 16-inch steel wheels
with covers. The SX4 S AWD features new
16-inch alloys and the SX4 S 2WD and SX4
sedan gain new 17-inch alloys.
Interior SX4 changes aim to deliver a
more upmarket impression, led by a new
instrument panel with an integrated digital
information display, a new-design digital
climate-control panel and, in response to
customer demand, backlit steering wheel
audio switches.
Other cabin changes include softer door
armrests, chrome-plated doorhandles for the S
version and a centre speaker in the dashboard.
The SX4 sedan, S hatch and S AWD all retain
Suzuki’s keyless start system.
While ESC is new to the base SX4 2WD
hatch, pricing for which rises by $200 to
$20,490, it continues to come standard
with twin front airbags, fi ve three-point
seatbelts, ABS brakes with electronic brake-
force distribution, electric power steering,
front/rear power windows, an adjustable
steering wheel, remote central locking, air-
conditioning, an eight-speaker AM/FM/CD
audio system with MP3-compatible auxiliary
input jack, trip computer and power mirrors.
FULL STORY: CLICK HEREFor drive impressions, go to
www.GoAuto.com.au from this afternoon
Much more Much more for SX4for SX4
Suzuki’s facelifted small car arrives Down Under with
more power, economy and safety
PRICING:2WD hatch $20,490
2WD hatch (a) $22,490
2WD S hatch $23,490
2WD S hatch (a) $25,490
AWD hatch $23,490
AWD hatch (a) $25,490
AWD S hatch $25,690
AWD S hatch (a) $27,690
2WD S sedan $23,990
2WD S sedan (a) $25,990
Feb 17, 2010 Page 22
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John Mellor’s
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Hyundai is now a big threat to VW, Toyota in the global sales race
Hyundai Hyundai aims highaims highToyota vs Hyundai sales in Australia (2004-2009)
By JAMES STANFORDTOUGH times can provide aggressive
companies a chance to gain ground on their
opposition. Take Hyundai, for example.
The South Korean manufacturer was the
only mainstream car company to grow its
global sales of cars and light trucks in 2009,
up 11.1 per cent at a time when its main
rivals watched their own sales plummet.
IHS Global Insight claims Hyundai now
outsells Ford and is closing in on General
Motors which would move it into third place
behind Toyota and the Volkswagen Group.
Hyundai has managed to grow its global
share without taking a fi nancial hit, posting a
$938.2 million profi t in the third quarter of last
year as many of its rivals posted huge losses.
Its progress has landed Hyundai on the front
cover of Fortune magazine with the headline
‘The Toughest Car Company of Them All’.
Fortune writer Alex Taylor III alluded to
the notion that Toyota has long seen Hyundai
as its biggest threat and added: “Today those
fears have grown into a nightmare.”
The magazine quotes Grant Thornton
consultant Kimberly Rodriguez as saying
Hyundai spent an average of $3185 on
incentives through most of 2009 in the US,
the most of any Asian car-maker.
She also told Fortune that Hyundai sold lots
of excess production into rental car fl eets.
Hyundai Motor Co Australia (HMCA)
remained particularly aggressive through last
year in Australia, with sharp deals and strong
marketing. Company insiders were surprised
by the lack of keen prices and offers from
its rivals.
HMCA CEO Edward Lee said fl eets
were important to Hyundai as it sought
to expand its volume. The brand’s 2009
result was nothing short of incredible,
with the company seemingly immune to
the fi nancial woes sweeping the country.
It sold 17,798 more cars than it did in the
previous year, which translates into a 39.2
per cent increase while the Australian new-
car market fell 7.4 per cent.
In the worst result for the Australian
operation in six years, Toyota Australia sold
37,992 fewer cars last year than it did in
2008, representing a 15.9 per cent decrease.
The company is still way ahead in terms of
outright numbers with 200,991 2009 sales
compared with Hyundai’s 63,207, but it
would take a brave punter to bet the gap
won’t shrink.
VFACTS fi gures show Hyundai is
continuing its momentum, selling 6208 cars
in January, representing a massive 67.7 per
cent increase on the same month a year ago.
Toyota Australia managed to stem the
tide, selling 14,564 for an 8.5 per cent
increase. It is not yet known if the fallout
from Toyota recalls will affect local sales.
Hyundai is pushing on and last week
introduced its new compact SUV, the ix35.
It is preparing to launch a new small car to
sit above the Getz – called the i20 – in April
and a mid-sized sedan to replace the Sonata
mid-year.
The only grey cloud on the horizon is the
forthcoming mid-2011 discontinuation of
the Getz, which will surely take a bite out
of its sales here.
Up Close on Personnel – page 24
20082005 20072004 20092006
Sal
es u
nit
s (t
ho
usa
nd
s)
Michelle Betts Joanne Park
REVS & Vcheck
1300 66 11 33
Want to buy and sell with more security?
Protect yourself with REVS & Vcheck.
www.dealersolutions.com.au
160
180
200
220
100
120
140
60
80
40
240
Source: VFACTS
200442,510
200548,010
200646,523
2008238,983
200845,409
2005202,817
2007236,647
200750,007
2004201,737
2009200,991
200963,207
2006213,847
ix35iiii 3ix3ix35 RAV4
Feb 17, 2010 Page 23Green issues in the auto world
GoAuto Green is brought to you by Custom Fleet
GoAuto Green
John Mellor’s
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Kia turns the light on its sleek Cerato-based Ray plug-in hybrid concept
By TERRY MARTINKIA Motors has taken the wraps off its
Cerato-based Ray hybrid concept at the
Chicago motor show, demonstrating its
advanced work on a plug-in petrol-electric
powertrain and previewing design elements
of its future small cars.
It remains to be seen whether Kia
introduces a dedicated hybrid model, such
as the Toyota Prius and Honda Insight, or
sticks with its current model lines for the
alternative powertrain.
Some overseas reports suggest the Ray is
a pointer to the next-generation Cee’d small
car, which is due for release in Europe in
2012. But the concept could equally apply
to the next-generation Cerato, upon which
it is based.
It also stands as a departure point from
the conventional hybrid car Kia now has in
production (and which remains a prospect
for release in Australia) – the Cerato/Forte
LPI, which combines an 85kW 1.6-litre
LPG engine with a 15kW electric motor and
CVT transmission.
The Ray, on the other hand, is powered
by an all-aluminium 114kW 1.4-litre direct-
injection ‘Gamma’ GDI engine paired with
a permanently engaged fi xed-ratio CVT and
used in combination with a 78kW electric
motor and lithium-ion polymer battery pack.
Power is sent to the front wheels from
the electric motor, petrol engine or both,
depending on the driving conditions.
Other technology onboard includes an
engine-power-saving alternator management
system and a gearshift indicator which
encourages economical driving. Custom-
designed low-rolling-resistance tyres on
narrow 195/50-section 20-inch wheels are
also designed to improve effi ciency.
As for the economy claims, Kia says
the Ray offers fuel consumption as low
as 3L/100km in ‘pure HEV’ mode, while
in ‘plug-in HEV’ mode it returns just
1.2L/100km. The Korean manufacturer also
claims the vehicle can drive up to 80km on
a single charge without intervention from
the internal combustion engine, and has a
total driving range of up to 1200km.
The four-seat Ray concept rests on a
2700mm wheelbase and measures 4400mm
in overall length, 1850mm in width and
1360mm in height. This is a touch longer
in wheelbase than the current Cerato sedan,
but shorter, narrower and lower overall.
The Ray has a slippery 0.25Cd drag
coeffi cient and is built using lightweight
and recycled materials. It also features
hexagonal solar cells embedded in the glass
roof panel to power ancillary systems such
as cabin lighting and the air-conditioning.
Drive-by-wire steering, ‘cool glazing’
solar glass and touch-screen controls are all
included, and, along with the powertrain and
battery, are described as possible indicators
of future technology from Kia.
“It is important to imagine early in the
design process what people will want in the
future from a green perspective,” said Kia
Motors Corporation chief design offi cer Peter
Schreyer. “People want to reduce their carbon
footprint without driving carbon copies.
“Being green doesn’t have to be an
obvious statement anymore and the Kia Ray
exemplifi es a viable blend of modern, eco-
minded features for today’s environmentally
conscious consumers.”
Like the Cerato hybrid, the Ray sits under
Kia’s EcoDynamics umbrella.
Flush, clean surfaces that minimise edges
are employed across the bodywork and
aim to impart a ‘fl owing’ profi le, while the
pronounced rear shoulder that runs into
a higher-than-usual deck is designed to
reduce drag.
Kia says the tapering greenhouse cabin
and the long ‘tail’ improve aerodynamics,
and that drag is further reduced with a one-
piece integrated underbody panel.
Traditional wing mirrors and doorhandles
are substituted with motion-detector
cameras mounted fl ush with the body. Rear-
hinged back doors and, on the front door
openings, a forward ‘cut-out’ design for the
feet are designed to maximise ease of entry
for occupants.
FULL STORY: CLICK HERE
How can you improve employee satisfaction?It’s not just about money. It’s often about the benefits you can offer your employees. Novated Leasing is a prime example – and it’s easy to arrange. Custom Fleet can provide a complete Novated Leasing service with online quoting, ordering, applications and reporting. Plus, our team of Customer Service Executives is always available to answer any questions. So while you’re doing your utmost to keep your employees satisfied, we’ll be going out of our way to satisfy you.
To find out more, click here or call Custom Fleet on 1800 812 681.
LLittle Ray of sunshineittle Ray of sunshine
Brought to you by Motor Staff – the Motor Industry’s No.1 Recruitment Specialist
UP CLOSE ON PERSONNEL
Feb 17, 2010 Page 24GoAuto Personnel
John Mellor’s
Brought to you by Motor Staff – the Motor Industry’s No.1 Recruitment Specialist
UP CLOSE ON PERSONNELUP CLOSE ON PERSSONNELUP CLOSE ON PERSONNEUP CLOSE ON PERSONNELBrought to you by Motor Staff – the Motor Industry’s No.1 Recruitment Specialist
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LEE PROMISES TO FACE HYUNDAI STAFF CONCERNS AFTER TWITTER OUTBURST
PERFORMAX MAKES KEY APPOINTMENT AS RHD CAMARO HITS THE STREETS
By JAMES STANFORDHYUNDAI Motor Co. Australia (HMCA)
management has been stung by comments
made by its employees on the Twitter social
networking site.
A Twitter thread featured accusations
that HMCA chief executive Edward Lee
had introduced harsh working conditions,
that redundancies were being planned, and
even suggested last year’s departure of sales
and marketing director Kevin McCann
was related to Hyundai’s failure to pay a
promised bonus for reaching 60,000 sales.
The authors appeared to have inside
knowledge of the HMCA operation, but it
is diffi cult to trace their identities as none
used their real names.
Some of the statements on the thread,
which gained publicity when it was reported
by Crikey.com.au, verged on the bizarre
including one that read: “All long-term staff
be careful, Edward wants to get rid of you.”
Others spoke of long hours and their
effects on workers: “I can tell you there are
a lot of stressed employees who take their
frustrations home with them. There are
sleepness nights, health problems.”
Another used the Twitter thread to make
a direct appeal to Mr Lee: “Edward, how
do you think the husbands, wives, children
and families of your staff are feeling. Been
doing 11-hour days, it is expected when
working for an autocratic operator.”
Mr Lee has confi rmed he will raise the
issues aired on Twitter with employees at
HMCA’s next quarterly meeting and ask them
to voice any concerns they have with him.
“I will meet our employees next Monday
and have an open discussion, (and ask) what
is the problem? What is wrong?” he said.
“If there is any misunderstanding I will
try to explain. If there is any concern we can
discuss, I am open-minded, come to me and
we can discuss.”
Mr Lee said he was not aware why any of
the 110 employees at Hyundai’s head offi ce
in Sydney would be unhappy.
“I don’t know what is the reason,” he said.
“I was very surprised
that there were any
negative comments. We
are a growing company,
doing very well and
most of our people are
doing very well I think.”
One of the comments
alluded to the sudden
departure of sales and
marketing chief Kevin McCann at the end of
last year. Mr McCann did not have another
job to go to and no reasons for his departure
were made public at the time he left.
One Twitter post alleged: “Sales and
marketing director has been sacked, he
asked for the bonus promised for 60,000
sales and gets sacked.” Mr Lee would not
comment when GoAuto asked why Mr
McCann left the company suddenly, but did
say that he, along with other staff, was paid
a bonus for reaching 60,000 sales.
FULL STORY: CLICK HERE
By TERRY MARTINAUSTRALIAN car conversion specialist
Performax International has bolstered its
executive ranks, appointing former Renault
Australia NSW regional manager Glenn
Soper as general manager.
Announced last week at the offi cial launch
of the Performax-converted right-hand-drive
Chevrolet Camaro, which has now received
Australian Design Rule clearance, Mr
Soper’s appointment is understood to mark
the Queensland fi rm’s fi rst senior executive
recruitment from the
mainstream car industry.
He replaces Nicholas
Vandenberg, who
Performax said had
resigned to start his
own business.
Mr Soper has more
than 25 years’ experience in the industry
across management, sales, aftersales and
dealer development areas. As well as working
in the Australian market, he has worked in
New Zealand and other locations in the Asia-
Pacifi c and South Pacifi c regions.
In a statement released last week,
Performax said Mr Soper’s experience, in
addition to his time at Renault, included
stints with Holden, Ford Thailand, Bentley
Motors, Pentana Solutions, PNG Toyota
distributor Toyota Tsusho, and global
automotive consulting group MXSI.
“Glenn’s wide mainstream motor industry
experience will be invaluable as Performax
International faces the most exciting
opportunities in its 20-year history,” said
Performax International managing director
Greg Waters. “These opportunities will be
the result of having developed our design,
engineering and production capabilities to
be the best in the conversion industry during
Nick Vandenberg’s time as general manager.”
FULL STORY: CLICK HERERead more: Right-hook Camaro arrives
GM green light for RHD Camaro
Edward Lee
Glenn Soper
Paul Newton George Hennessy
Sharon Hunter
Anne Taylor
Mara Nogarotto Doug Tame
Don’t be caught short... talk with us today and prepare yourself for tomorrow!
Has your dealership been running too lean during the last few months?Now that the economy has turned the corner, it is important that you have suffi cient staff to take full advantage as business improves. Remember how diffi cult it was, not so very long ago, to fi nd good staff? So now is the time to hire the experienced personnel you need before someone else does!
1300 666 562www.motorstaff.com.au
Time to bolster your Dealership Team?
PR CUTS AT LAND ROVERLAND Rover Australia public affairs
specialist Guido Schenken has left the
company after his position was made
redundant earlier this month. Marketing
and public affairs manager Kevin Goult
has taken on Mr Schenken’s previous
responsibilities.
If you have any car industry personnel announcements, please email them to
Terry Martin at tmartin@mellor.net
Feb 17, 2010 Page 25
SUBSCRIBE FREE: www.GoAutoMedia.com
GoAuto NewsJohn Mellor’s
FEBRUARY:Chevrolet Performax CamaroCitroen C5 upgradeHSV GXP variantHyundai ix35Peugeot 207 Touring OutdoorMercedes-Benz Sprinter upgradeNissan 370Z RoadsterPorsche 911 TurboToyota Camry HybridToyota Corolla sedan upgradeSuzuki SX4 faceliftVolkswagen Golf wagon
New model diary: CLICK HERE
GoAuto’s latest car review www.GoAuto.com.au
Range Rover Sport TDV6 fi ve-door wagonFIVE years ago, Land Rover fi nally caught on to the fact that its Range Rover was not just the premium
model in its line-up but also a brand in its own right. So in 2005 it created the Range Rover Sport, a separate second-tier Range Rover model. The Sport has iconic Range Rover design cues but is based on Discovery 3 architecture and mechanicals, has a leaner look than its Vogue sibling and is much cheaper. Now it has been given a refresh for the 2010 model year, with the centrepiece of the update being a stunning new turbo-diesel V6.
Launch Padbrought to you by
Australia’s No.1 because it works!
Camaro
d
FULL STORY: CLICK HERE
GOOD VIBE AT HONDAHONDA has released a limited-edition Jazz,
unsurprisingly dubbed the Vibe.
Restricted to 1200 cars Australia-wide,
the value-added Vibe variant arrives after a
56.6 per cent sales plunge for Honda’s light-
sized hatchback in January. The second-
generation Jazz fi ve-door, launched here in
September 2008, fared better than the overall
industry with a 5.6 per cent sales slide in its
fi rst full year, but still proved less popular in
2009 than the Hyundai Getz, Toyota Yaris,
Mazda2, Suzuki Swift and Holden Barina.
Available in both (1.3-litre) GLi and
(1.5-litre) VTi model grades, the Vibe tempts
with extra features said to be valued at
$2300, including a sports grille, alloy wheels,
foglights, Bluetooth connectivity and an
exclusive ‘Brilliant Orange’ paint colour.FULL STORY: CLICK HERE
480kW WALKINSHAW E2WALKINSHAW Performance has released
an ‘E2 Supercar’ kit for HSV owners
desiring “that little bit extra” from their
vehicles, headlined by a black-fi nished
WP190 supercharger that extracts no less
than 480kW of power and 802Nm of torque
from GM’s 6.2-litre Chevrolet LS3 V8.
Priced at $49,920 and offered with a full
no-cost drivetrain warranty for vehicles
still under HSV’s new-car warranty, the E2
package also comprises WP’s new carbon-
fi bre fender vents, bonnet scoop, mirrors
and hood header, a WP three-inch bi-modal
exhaust system, WP lowered suspension
kit, WP 20-inch wheels, WP engine covers,
mats and head restraints and a WP carbon-
fi bre low-series spoiler.FULL STORY: CLICK HERE
M-CLASS SPORT REPORTMERCEDES-BENZ has moved to improve
the value of its M-class range in Australia
and keep the luxury SUV front-of-mind in
the face of new models from its competitors,
including the forthcoming redesigned
Volkswagen Touareg and Porsche Cayenne
and a heavily revised BMW X5.
Pricing remains fi rm across the duty-free
ML range, but Mercedes-Benz Australia/
Pacifi c is offering the factory-fi t ‘exterior
sports package’ – now set at $2900 – on
standard versions of the V6-powered ML300
CDI BlueEffi ciency diesel, ML350 petrol
and ML350 CDI BlueEffi ciency diesel.FULL STORY: CLICK HERE
370Z
Golf wagon
ix35
Find out why it works for Neville.Call us on 1300 728 800
“Our results continue to improve due to thequality leads generated by carsales.”
Neville Barton - Southgate Holden, SA.
PRIUS RECALL IN FULLAS ANTICIPATED, Toyota recalled
its Prius hybrid car last Tuesday night,
February 9 – just a day after launching the
Australian-made Camry Hybrid. The widely
anticipated global safety recall to fi x the
brakes on the Prius III affects about 400,000
cars worldwide and 2378 in Australia.
FULL STORY: CLICK HERE
AUSSIE COROLLA SAFEAUSTRALIA’S most popular small car will
not become the latest model to be embroiled
in Toyota’s global recall crisis, says its
local subsidiary. Responding to reports that
Corolla could be recalled globally following
claimed steering problems in the US, Toyota
Australia has advised it will not be affected.
FULL STORY: CLICK HERE
ACCORD, CR-V RECALLHONDA has joined Toyota in issuing a
global safety recall affecting vehicles on
Australian roads. Centred on a defective
airbag that can explode and injure occupants,
the latest recall – totalling 437,763 vehicles
globally – is an expansion of recalls related
to the same issue with superseded Accord
and CR-V models since November 2008.
FULL STORY: CLICK HERE
EXPLORER RECALL, TOOALMOST 6300 examples of Ford’s
Explorer SUV, F-Series utility and
Econoline van in Australia have now been
implicated in Ford’s decade-long global
recall to fi x leaky cruise control switches
that could cause under-bonnet fi res.
FULL STORY: CLICK HERE
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DAY 2 ONLY Members $450.00 $600.00
Non-Members $600.00 $750.00
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REGISTRATION FORM
2010 National Fleet Conferences & Exhibition16 & 17 March 2010
tionEarly Bird Ends
19 February 2010
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