March 8, 2006 No. 180 Simply red · Simply red DIGITAL IMAGE: Chris Harris March 8, 2006 No. 180 GoAutoe-news John Mellor's No. 326 Specialists in Automotive Residual Value Research!UTOMOTIVE"USINESS)NTELLIGENCE

The curtain went up, and the covers came off, at the Geneva motor show last week to reveal some breathtaking new vehicles

– including the most powerful Ferrari road car of all time

Simply red

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March 8, 2006 No. 180

GoAuto -newseJohn Mellor's No. 326

Specialists in AutomotiveResidual Value Researchand Specification Data.

http://www.mellor.net/mellor/mellorweb.nsf/weben/Back%20Issueswww.mobil.com.auwww.eurotaxglass.com.au

GoAuto -newse MARCH 8, 2006 Page 2

Phone: (03) 9598 6477 E-mail: [email protected] Advertising manager: Steve Butcher – Ph: 0419 562 110

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Toyota set for more growth – page 7Kia takes a new course – page 9Mitsubishi 380 claws back – page 10Barina safety debate continues – page 11

Yaris swallows Commodore – page 12 Strong returns to Ford design – page 13GM sells Suzuki share – page 14HSV confi rms VXR hot hatch – page 14

THIS WEEK IN E-NEWS

FERRARI 599 GTB FIORANONEW models from the House of the Prancing Horse are always something

to celebrate, and the 599 GTB Fiorano unveiled in Geneva last week is no

exception.

Named in honour of Ferrari’s famous test track, the Fiorano is a replacement

for the 550/575 series introduced a decade ago and takes the mantle of being

the most powerful production Ferrari ever built. The front mid-engine two-

seater delivers stunning performance courtesy of a 6.0-litre V12 – the same

engine that powered the Enzo supercar – punching out 462kW (620hp) at

7600rpm and 608Nm at 5600rpm.

Ferrari claims the Pininfarina-designed Fiorano can sprint from 0-100 km/h

in 3.7 seconds and on to a top speed of more than 330km/h. The V12 is

paired with a new-generation “F1-SuperFast” transmission, and with the aid

of all-aluminium chassis and bodywork hands the Fiorano a power-to-weight

ratio of less than 2.6kg/hp.

Among the new chassis developments is a new F1-TRAC stability control

system, which Ferrari explains “continually monitors the speed of both front

and rear wheels and features predictive software that estimates the maximum

available grip in advance, compares this information with the vehicle

dynamics model stored in the control system, and adjusts its reactions to suit,

optimising traction by modulating power delivery”. The result is a claimed

20 per cent increase in acceleration compared to a traditional

traction and stability control system.

The Fiorano also uses “magnetorheological” fl uid

in the shock absorbers, with viscosity modifi ed via

an electronically controlled magnetic fi eld. Ferrari

claims these react more quickly than conventional

electronic dampers.

The car’s styling borrows cues of past Ferraris,

mixing the narrow headlights of the four-seater

612 Scaglietti with the bonnet power bulge

inspired by the Enzo. The windscreen is heavily

curved and deep, leading to a sweeping roofl ine

that fl ows to the rear via twin buttresses, down to

the recessed circular tail-lights.

PAGANI ZONDA ROADSTER F THE $1.3 million Zonda has made a name for itself in Australia as the

most expensive and exclusive sports car on the market. Well, now there’s

something else in the Zonda range for prospective owners – and the rest of

us – to aspire owning: the roofl ess F.

Billed by Pagani as “the new jewel in the Zonda family”, the hand-built

F (for “Fangio”, no less) will be limited to 25 units and features

a carbon fi bre and cloth roof removable in a few seconds.

Considering the already extensive use of lightweight

materials for the chassis, bodywork and interior, the

Roadster tips the scales at just 1230kg. This translates

to a power-to-weight ratio of 1.89kg/hp (for the

Clubsport version), with propulsion coming from

the Mercedes AMG-sourced 484kW/780Nm 7.3-

litre V12. The two-seater is claimed to be able to

hit 200km/h in just 9.8 seconds and has a top speed of more than 300km/h.

Inside, the snug cabin features lashings of carbon fi bre, soft leather and

polished aluminium highlights. Even the instrument cluster has been crafted

with the precision of a watchmaker.

Editor: Terry Martin Managing Editor: Marton Pettendy Production & Graphics: Chris Harris Staff Journalists: Byron Mathioudakis & Neil McDonald

Phone: 03 9598 6477E-mail: [email protected]

GoAuto -newse is produced by GoAuto Newsroom Advertising manager: Steve Butcher – Ph: 0419 562 110John Mellor's

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Infomedia Ltd is an Australian Owned Equal Opportunity Employer – www.infomedia.com.au

TECHNICAL ANALYST – South East Suburbs, Melbourne

Infomedia Ltd is an internationally renowned automotive software development company. Our company develops

and markets reliable, fully integrated Dealer Management Systems, Electronic Parts Catalogues, Service and

Repair Information for the automotive after market and Original Equipment Manufacturers.

We are currently seeking a highly motivated team player to research, create and maintain technical data to a

high level of accuracy for our technical publications and special projects.

Successful applicants will posses Motor Mechanic Certification, parts interpreting skills, good PC and keyboard

skills. Candidates should be able to demonstrate a high level of technical competency, and have a diverse range

of mechanical and parts experience with automotive vehicles. Experience obtained in a dealership, service,

parts or warranty environment would be highly regarded.

Naturally you will be a team player with exceptional interpersonal and communication skills.

Please forward your application to Linda Scott, Human Resources Manager by e-mail [email protected], fax (02) 9454 1910 or post to Locked Bag 5009 Frenchs Forest NSW 2086.

DO YOU HAVE A MECHANICAL / PARTS BACKGROUND?

AUDI A6 ALLROADTHOSE expecting a fresh interpretation of Audi’s A6 wagon-based Allroad

4WD will be disappointed at this all-new model unveiled at Geneva, which

relies heavily on the styling themes of the old version.

In Europe, four direct-injection engines will be available: two petrol and

two diesels. The petrol duo comprise a 188kW 3.2 FSI V6 and 257kW 4.2 FSI

V8. FSI technology increases the power and effi ciency of both powerplants.

The V6 turbo-diesels are the latest common-rail injection engines and

develop 132kW in the 2.7-litre variant and 171kW in the 3.0-litre. Power is

transmitted by a six-speed manual transmission or six-speed automatic

with a sequential-manual shift mode.

The Allroad is 4930mm long and sits on a

wheelbase of 2830mm, with room enough

for fi ve passengers and luggage space that

expands up to 1660 litres. The load area

has a variety of intelligent stowage ideas

while Audi claims the interior conveys an

ambience of “elegant sportiness”.

As before, the key to the Allroad’s off-

road ability is its quattro permanent 4WD

system and height-adjustable adaptive air suspension. The suspension offers

fi ve height modes, including two specifi c off-road settings. The car’s ESP

system has been developed especially to cope with off-road demands. Audi

Australia expects the Allroad to arrive early next year, with pricing and

specifi cations yet to be confi rmed.

RENAULT CLIOSPORTRENAULT has taken the covers off its new Clio RenaultSport

hatchback, which, in a fi rst for a small car of this ilk, has a

Formula One-style rear air diffuser. It also has extractor vents

in the front wings.

Due on sale in Australia early in 2007, the

hot little Clio is powered by a 2.0-

litre 16-valve four-cylinder

engine with continuously

variable valve timing.

It outputs 147kW

at 7250rpm

and 215Nm at

5550rpm and,

in combination

with the

s t a n d a r d

close-ratio six-

speed manual gearbox, races from 0-100km/h in a claimed 6.9

seconds.

The suspension has been tuned for handling with a double-

axis strut system up front and a stronger, 25 per cent stiffer

torsion beam rear. It has a longer wheelbase than the standard

car, wider front and rear track, 17-inch alloys and a high-

performance Brembo brake package comprising 312mm

diameter cross-drilled front discs and 300mm rear discs.

The Clio III’s distinctive look has been enhanced by bumper-

mounted air intakes, side skirts, wheel-arch blisters that are

42mm wider than the standard car and body-coloured bumpers

and mouldings. Inside there are hip-hugging sports leather

seats, aluminium pedals and a leather-clad steering wheel. The

rev counter incorporates a gearchange indicator light, while the

numerals get bigger as the needle gets closer to the 7500rpm

redline. The spare tyre has been replaced by two aerosols so the

rear fl oor can accommodate the twin-rear exhausts.

www.infomedia.com.au




John Mellor's

Customer Connect Manager• Niche Vehicle Role

• Maintain High Level Satisfactiona a

This company has been designing and producing performance vehicles for more than a decade. They continually set and exceed new benchmarks

in Australian high-performance motoring. To achieve this they have an innovative and dedicated workforce who are continually motivating and

challenging themselves. They are seeking the services of a Customer Connect Manager to ensure the effective management of customer

satisfaction.

Reporting to the Marketing and Sales Manager, the purpose of this role is to drive the company’s efforts to provide a best in class ownership

experience for its customers and ensure that any customer concerns are addressed and resolved with the highest possible level of attention.

You will be responsible for managing all internal processes and resolve all issues relating to customer satisfaction; identify and communicate product

issues; and be instrumental in formulating a CRM system.

The successful candidate will have exceptional problem solving skills, have a ‘real’ interest in the automotive industry and be commercially astute. A

good technical understanding, while desirable, is not essential. Strong planning and coordination skills are required, as is your ability to influence and

mollify day to day grievances from external customers. A tertiary qualification in a business related discipline is essential.

To apply, please visit www.lloydmorgan.com.au & enter reference code: KD1599

For further information, please contact Kim Dempsey on (03) 9683 5218

Lloyd Morgan

CHRYSLER 300C SRT-8 TOURINGTHE standard version of Chrysler’s 300C Touring wagon is set to arrive Down Under

later this year – and now Chrysler Australia executives are keen to bolster the range in

2007 with the new 317kW SRT version unveiled at Geneva.

With a 6.1-litre HEMI V8 engine, performance-tuned suspension and Brembo

brakes, the SRT-8 Touring not only looks the part but has the performance to match.

To get the extra performance, engine breathing was increased with new high-fl ow

cylinder heads, a specially designed intake manifold, performance camshafts and

improved exhaust headers. The twin exhausts are also routed through a larger-

diameter 70mm exhaust system (up by 10 per cent) with 90mm chrome tailpipes.

SRT engineers increased the V8’s peak engine speed to 5800rpm from 5400rpm. The

SRT8 Touring connects with the road via a new wheel-and-tyre assembly consisting

of 20-inch alloy SRT performance wheels. Up front, there are 360mm ventilated disc

brakes with 350mm ventilated discs at the rear.

Before the SRT-8 version arrives, Chrysler will offer the 300C Touring with a 3.5-

litre V6, 5.7-litre HEMI V8 and 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel engine.

MAZDA3ALTHOUGH all eyes were trained on the new Mazda3 MPS turbo, the Japanese manufacturer also chose

Geneva to unveil its facelifted Mazda3 sedan and hatch.

Minor tweaks to the front enhance the car’s already popular looks with a deeper air intake on the sedan

to mimic the Mazda6, as well as revised foglights, alloy wheels and improved aerodynamics. The Mazda3’s

MZR 2.0-litre engine now features sequential valve timing and an electronic throttle, boosting

power and torque. The 2.3-litre engine that powers the popular SP23 models also gets an

electronic throttle. A six-speed manual or fi ve-speed automatic will be offered on the SP23

sedan and hatch. Overall, comfort has also been signifi cantly upgraded with more insulation

against road noise, revised tyres and reduced suspension vibration.

The Mazda3 MPS and the updated Mazda3 range will arrive in Australia during the second

half of the year. Specifi cation and pricing will be confi rmed closer to launch.

HONDA CIVIC TYPE-RTHERE is every to reason to be excited by the Civic Type R concept unveiled at Geneva, now that Honda

Australia has the Euro hatchback model in its sights. This is just a logical extension … we hope.

The Type R “concept” borrows its 150kW 2.0-litre i-VTEC naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine

from the previous model but wraps it in a stylish three-door body based on the fi ve-door Civic sold in

Europe. Details were thin on the ground at Geneva, but it will be built alongside the Civic fi ve-door

range at Honda’s UK plant in Swindon. Sales commence early 2007 in Europe, a couple of months

after the standard Civic three-door hits the streets over there.

www.lloydmorgan.com.au




John Mellor's

TOP UP YOURBUSINESSWITH CALTEX.

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Premium and Vortex 98, and extended life coolant. To find out more, click here.

Or call Steven Thomas on 0423 894 007 to discuss your requirements.

BERTONE SUAGNABASED on the Fiat Grande Punto, the Bertone Suagna concept interprets

the theme of the coupe-cabriolet with “aggressive elegance”. In the metal,

this emerges – according to Bertone – via a low front end, arching waistline

and high, muscular rear end treatment, matched for visual effect with 18-inch

alloys.

The Suagna has a completely retractable two-piece hardtop, joining a

growing list of four-seater hardtop cabrios surfacing in Europe. The roof system

was jointly developed by Pininfarina and German convertible roof specialist

Car Top Systems. It can be raised or lowered in less than 30 seconds. The rear

window of the roof can also be lowered separately without opening the roof to

enhance the open-air feel. Also, with the roof down, the rear window can be

raised separately to operate as a windbreaker.

The name comes from the adjective “suagna” which, in Piedmontese dialect,

means a job done painstakingly, paying scrupulous attention to every detail.

LOREMO LSFROM some angles the Loremo 2+2 coupe looks suspiciously like a Porsche 911, but the innovative German car-maker Loremo

AG has another message – economy.

The Loremo comes with a fuel-busting claim of 1.5L/100km – 157 mpg in the old scale – and the company, founded in 2000

by three Bavarians, is planning to bring its cars into low-volume production.

A key to its low fuel fi gure is a 95kg lightweight steel chassis, a patented super-strong linear cell structure. Thermoplastic

body panels are light, weatherproof and scratch-resistant. It substitutes the classical paint with a

thin fi lm, in the colour of the car, during the manufacturing process. The makers claim the

car can travel from Munich to Rome, a distance of more than 1000km, on one 20-litre

tank of fuel. Advanced aerodynamics achieve a drag coeffi cient of 0.20Cd.

Power is courtesy of a 15kW two-cylinder turbo-diesel engine that gives

the car a top speed of 160km/h and a sluggish 0-100km/h

time of 20 seconds.

Inside, the spartan interior design does away

with unnecessary fi ttings and its two-ply plastic

construction does not need any additional

fi nishing. Alcantara trim and hi-tech fabrics are

used inside, while air-conditioning, an on-board

computer (with navigation) and an MP3 player

are optional.

At only 3840mm long and 1360mm wide the

Loremo is a true mini. Production is expected to

start next year with prices from under $30,000.

www.caltex.com.au




John Mellor's

COURLANDCOURLANDAUTOMOTIVE PRACTICE

Excellence in global automotive executive recruitment

LAND ROVER e-TERRAINLAND Rover was still working on its new Freelander, which prevent for the long-awaited new small 4WD from making a

public appearance, so the Ford-owned 4WD brand gave an insight into its environmental commitment through the e-Terrain.

Although it looks like a skeleton, the e-Terrain highlights real-world solutions Land Rover expects to incorporate into its

line-up over the next few years with effi cient technologies that enhance on- and off-road performance. Among the targets are

a 30 per cent improvement in fuel economy and new technologies to reduce emissions to about 150g/km CO2 on a vehicle

the size of the Freelander.

Land Rover claims the e-Terrain combines mechanical and electrical advances to make gains in areas ranging from

transmission function to cooling effi ciency, and from battery power management to power steering

effi ciency – all without compromising off-road capability. “The e-Terrain technologies are

practical, feasible, real-world solutions,” said Land Rover managing director (and former

Ford Australia marketing chief) Matthew Taylor.

Over the past nine years, Land Rover’s emissions output has –

according to the maker – fallen 13 per cent, compared with the motor

industry’s overall average improvement of 9.7 per cent.

E-Terrain also showcases an integrated electric rear-axle drive,

bio-diesel capability, electric power steering, and integrated starter-

generator. The sophisticated rear-axle drive – used in conjunction

with the integrated starter-generator – improves both urban emissions

and off-road ability. Off-road, the IERAD can provide additional

torque, as required. It also allows electric-powered “traffi c creep”

and low-speed acceleration up to 32km/h, without restarting the

engine, benefi ting fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

DACIA LOGAN STEPPEDACIA has unveiled its inaugural show car produced by Renault Design, developed on the theme of snow

sports. Called the Logan Steppe, the fi ve-seater wagon features sturdy body parts and tech-feel fabrics

and sporty materials inside to capture its 4WD application.

Derived directly from Logan, the car has 17-inch alloy wheels, pronounced grille and

front-end design with wrap-around bumpers and protective sills. Other features

include Xenon headlights, symmetrical rear doors, roof-mounted spotlights and a

roof storage system built into the roof. Despite its 1780mm height, the Steppe’s

proportions are well balanced.

The interior is roomy, with highlights including an MP3 player and DVD

screens in the back of the front headrests. Video editing equipment is housed

in one of the rear doors with a monitor for a detailed review of the afternoon’s

action on the ski slopes (or elsewhere). The Steppe is 4470mm long but has a

boot capacity of 1.7 cubic metres.

Alfa Romeo Spider Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon Audi RS4 Avant & Cabriolet Daihatsu Terios Dodge Hornet Fioravanti Skill Ford Focus CC Ford Galaxy & S-Max Holden Captiva Honda Civic Type R Hyundai Genus Kia Carnival Kia Cee’d Lotus APX

Maserati Gransport MC Victory Mazda3 MPS Mercedes-Benz CLS/CLK63 Mini Cooper S GP Nissan Terranaut Opel GT Peugeot 207 Peugeot 207 RCup Porsche 911 GT3 Porsche 911 Turbo Renault Altica Rinspeed ZaZen Rolls-Royce 101EX Saab Aero X

Toyota Yaris T-Sport Volkswagen Concept A Volvo S80

GOAUTO HAS GOT GENEVA COVERED...

Hyundai Genus

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© 2004 Exxon Mobil Corporation. Mobil, Mobil 1 and The Flying Horse device are Trademarks of Exxon Mobil Corporation or one of its subsidiaries. McCann MPVL000110-Q

NOTHING ELSE CAN PROTECT YOUR ENGINE BETTER THAN MOBIL 1.

THERE ARE MORE THAN 20 PATENTS ON ITS SUPERSYN™ ANTI-WEAR TECHNOLOGY.

DEALER PRINCIPAL

Our client is seeking a ‘High Achiever’ with a proven performance record to fill the role of Dealer Principal in a Victorian Provincial Centre.

With the backing of a major multi-franchise motor group,

this could be a chance to make your mark.

Reporting directly to the business partners, you will be

expected to take complete responsibility for all

dealership operations, financial planning,

business development, and customer relations.

Profit ShareThe successful candidate

will be given a ‘Buy-in Opportunity’ to both the

business and the real estate – and with hard work, achieve

a respectable profit share.

Receive more details in confidence by contacting

Colin Brown on (03) 5968 6811 or email [email protected]

By MARTON PETTENDY

TOYOTA Motor Corporation Australia (TMCA)

executive chairman John Conomos is aiming to

lift Toyota’s vehicle production in Australia to an

ambitious annual total of 200,000 vehicles via a

third model line at its Altona plant in Melbourne.

However, he has conceded that such

an increase – a rise of 60,000 vehicles

a year – is predicated on the success

of the forthcoming Aurion large car,

which by his own admission is “a very

bold risk by both TMC and TMCA”.

Once in full production, July’s all-

new Camry and November’s Aurion

are expected to lift annual production

at Altona from about 110,000 units last

year to 140,000, 24,000 of which will

be Aurions.

Mr Conomos told GoAuto last week that the

annual production capacity could readily be

expanded to 150,000, and his personal ambition

was to produce 200,000 vehicles a year with three

model lines.

“The plan is for 140,000 with two models lines

and we have approval to increase production to

150,000 if pushed,” he said. “But a third model

line would make 200,000 possible – that’s my

personal goal.

“I think we have the potential, but it requires

massive courage and to continuously improve

cost, quality and customer satisfaction at the same

time, which is almost impossible.”

Mr Conomos said the need for a third product

line was alleviated by Toyota Motor Corporation’s

approval to manufacture up to 140,000 vehicles

annually from 2006.

He added that a third model would

only follow the success of Aurion,

which he admits he is nervous about and

describes as Toyota’s “last chance with

a six-cylinder car”.

“Aurion has to be successful and

profi table before we can make further

decisions. We won (approval to build

Aurion) after 15 years but we haven’t

sold a car yet.”

Mr Conomos made it clear that

Toyota was far from deciding exactly

what form a possible third model would take,

but a crossover-type vehicle appears to be the

frontrunner.

“At the moment there is no approval for a

third model line,” he said. “We’ve talked about a

crossover but that’s not decided. We don’t know

the future trend of SUVs but that’s why we’re

studying it very carefully.

“It’s too early to call the future of SUVs, sedans

or large cars. Trying to predict that is what every

CEO is doing right now.

Continued next page

Boring Boring -- but best but best

John Conomos

Toyota aims to build 200,000 cars a year in Australia

www.mobil.com.au




John Mellor's

With over 500 graduates, the Horwath Academy of Excellence Program focuses today’s Dealer Principals and General Managers on how to run and improve each of the five businesses within a dealership to drive profitability.

Throughout the program Horwath demonstrates how it is possible to double your net profit as a percentage of sales by implementing basic operational strategies.

In order to achieve these objectives, Dealers need the buy-in, support and competence of the key departmental managers.

As a result, Horwath has spent the last 12 months developing and delivering a range of industry specific, practical and results driven programs for current and future Parts, Service and Sales Managers, that demonstrate how to improve the net profit of each department.

Through implementing the tools, techniques and processes obtained from this training, participants have successfully increased staff productivity, reduced operating costs, improved

customer satisfaction and retention – and in doing so have increased departmental profitability.

Graph A, reveals one aspect of the group average results from the inaugural 2005 Sydney Fixed Operations Management course, which demonstrates a significant improvement since commencement of the training program.

In addition, the results of one of Horwath’s Sales Management programs also revealed astonishing improvements, as shown in Graph B.

Programs are of 12 months duration and incorporate the option of a ‘Diploma of Business BSB50101’ qualification. They also include departmental reporting, (via eprofitfocus) and dealer groups, so the group can share ideas, compare figures and utilise support to drive performance.

As the data shows, Horwath Motor Industry Services really is focusing on building your future leaders so you can have a profitable today and lucrative tomorrow!

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60

50

40

30

20

10

0Parts Sales

per employeeper month

Perc

enta

ge

Parts Grossper employee

per month

Parts Selling/Retained Gross

45

32

53

80

60

40

20

0

-20

-40

-60Sales unit

per employee

Gross $ per

employee

Total Warrantyexpense $

TotalAdvertising $

Total Days supply $

Pe

rce

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80

60

-24

-42

-28

Graph A Graph B

Graphs show improvement since commencement of Training Program

Horwath Training contact: Tiana Minnikin, phone (02) 9372 0728 or email [email protected]

Continued from previous page

“Holden tried and failed to build a crossover

(Adventra) from its most successful vehicle ever.”

Mr Conomos said that because exports play a

pivotal role, Toyota Australia’s fi ercest competitor

was not GM Holden or Ford, but Toyota itself.

“TMC decided to produce cars for China

themselves, so there will be no Chinese exports

(for Aurion). And China’s labour cost is one-

nineteenth of ours,” he said.

“Every day the game changes. A third model

line won’t be decided until a business case can

be made – when we have a product that meets the

requirements of an emerging market not just in

Australia, but in Indonesia, the Philippines...

“We couldn’t build a car just for Australia – those

days are gone. We fi rst need to understand what our

and other markets will want in 10 to 15 years.

“It could be a crossover between a number of

things: sportscar, SUV, sedan, hybrid.

“We have to sell cars

to fi ll Altona’s capacity.

Our job is to sell cars in a

market where everyone’s

laying off. So we’re growing

and recruiting, but remain

circumspect and cautious.”

Mr Conomos said a hybrid version of the

forthcoming Camry would not eventuate.

“The world is clamouring for a Camry hybrid

right now, but how many would we sell? Who’ll

buy it over a Prius? Can we sustain the volume?

We can’t answer those questions and to tool up

and gear up suppliers without knowing that ...

Sadly, it won’t happen in this generation.”

Toyota was market leader in Australia last

year without a representative in the lucrative but

shrinking large-car segment, but Mr Conomos

remains cautious about Aurion’s success.

“We take a long-term view that we want to be

part of the large-car market. Aurion is the answer

to the way we can be part of it. We don’t set out to

be a V8 Supercar – we aren’t that arrogant. (But)

we’ll be boringly the best.”

Offi cially, TMCA hopes to increase total sales

from last year’s 202,817 to 250,000 by 2010,

including up to 80,000 exports – up from 69,000

last year – as part of TMC’s Global 15 plan, which

aims to achieve a 15 per cent world market share.

Boring Boring -- but best but best

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MA

M 8

156-

1

By NEIL McDONALD

DESPITE a softening market this year and

increasing market segmentation, the new factory-

backed operation of Kia Motors Australia (KMA)

has ambitious plans to double sales to 50,000

units annually by 2010.

This year it aims to lift sales to 30,000, up

almost 5000 over 2005. Last year Kia, under

Ateco Automotive, sold 25,293 cars to achieve a

2.6 per cent market share.

Operational since March 1, the new company

aims to achieve growth through new model variants

and the possible addition of the Picanto light car

and next-generation Carens people-mover.

It wants to offer more than one variant of each of

its models, including the addition of “safety packs”

of curtain airbags and ABS brakes, as well as the

possible addition of diesel 4WDs and a two-wheel

drive Sportage.

KMA general manager of marketing Bill

Gillespie said he was aiming for two, and possibly

three model variants, and that a 1.4-litre engine

may be added to the Rio line-up.

“You may see that the current Rio may move

up and another come in under it,” he said. “You

just can’t compete in the Australian market with

just one grade.”

Mr Gillespie also said that future Kias, including

the Sorento, would have a strong Australian input

for suspension tuning. The current Sorento uses a

softer North American tune.

He said the Picanto also presented opportunity

for the company for a low-cost entrant. The 1.1-

litre light hatch develops 48kW at 5500rpm and

97Nm at 2800rpm and has been acclaimed as one

of the most fuel-effi cient petrol cars in Europe,

achieving a 4.9L/100km combined fuel cycle.

KMA’s chief operating offi cer Steve Lotter,

a veteran of 30 years’ automotive experience

(mostly with Toyota), said Kia’s

cheap-and-cheerful days were

over but the company would

maintain its value position. He

said there would also be greater

differentiation between Hyundai

and Kia products over the next

few years as Kia moved to create

its own identity.

“The reality now is that the

Korean product, in a quality sense,

is as good as anything on the market,” he said. “I

think what’s really been lagging isn’t the reality,

the perception has been lagging the reality.

“I think with the Kia brand we’ve got to ensure

that the perception catches up with the reality.”

Mr Lotter said the car-maker’s brand identity

was to build “exciting and enabling”

products. “We must get Kia on to more

people’s shopping lists,” he said.

Kia vehicles currently share vehicle

hardware and design elements with

parent Hyundai but Kia’s future design,

as outlined by the C’eed concept car

at Geneva, pointed to a new direction,

according to Mr Lotter. However,

there are no plans to share back-room

logistics, warehousing and systems

locally between the pair, he said.

A breakdown of Kia’s sales forecast maintains

that the Rio and Cerato will remain the volume

players this year, selling an anticipated 8000 each.

In July, the Magentis four-cylinder and V6

large sedan will replace the Optima.

As its key rivals are the Hyundai Sonata,

Mitsubishi 380 and Toyota Camry, Kia has set

a conservative sales target

for 2006 of 1000 vehicles,

including the runout Optima.

The eight-seater Carnival

short-wheelbase model joins

the Grand Carnival in June,

with a sales forecast of 5000

a year. The company expects

to maintain the Carnival short-

wheelbase’s $29,990 price

point.

The Sportage, which has been affected by supply

shortages, is expected to hit its straps this year

with a forecast of 3600. More model variants are

expected with 2WD and diesel engine offerings.

The Sorento will remain under $35,000 but from

August gains a facelift that includes a new interior.

A diesel powerplant is also being considered.

The 2.5-litre 16-valve CRDi develops 104kW

at 3800rpm and 320Nm from 2000rpm. With the

departure of the Pregio, the company’s K2700 light

truck remains its sole commercial vehicle.

If KMA achieves its 50,000 target by 2010

this will deliver fi ve per cent of the total market

and give the importer “the mass to be a critical

player”, according to Mr Lotter. Ateco has been

instrumental in growing volumes for the brand

since it took over from Itochu in 2000, when Kia

sold 9000 vehicles.

WHAT’S COMING:Carnival SWB JuneMagentis large car JulyCerato facelift OctSorento facelift OctRio hatch 1.4 DecSportage 2WD DecCarens people-mover 2007Picanto 2007

Factory backing gives Kia renewed vigour in its quest for sales

Seoul searchSeoul search

Picanto

Facelifted Sorento

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By BYRON MATHIOUDAKIS

SALES of the Mitsubishi 380 large sedan

increased 41 per cent last month as Australia’s

large-car segment continued to fall compared to

last year, according to VFACTS fi gures released

last week.

Benefi ting from the 380 LE limited-edition

introduced from the second week in February,

Mitsubishi recorded 1011 sales of its new large

car – its best result since the Magna replacement’s

fi rst full month on sale last November, but well

down on the 2500 monthly units the company has

said it needs to achieve to survive as an Australian

manufacturer.

Mitsubishi Australia now claims it will take

some time for 380 sales to reach “an acceptable

level and role within the total model range”.

President and CEO Rob McEniry said he was

cautiously optimistic that the 380 LE’s retail

impact and fl eet penetration were still gathering

sales momentum.

“I am looking forward to the next couple

of months as we get the full effect of the LE

campaign and also fl eet sales continue to kick in,”

he said.

The large-car segment as a whole clawed back

3.2 percentage points over January’s alarming

12.3 per cent share, however the year-to-date

fi gure of 14.0 per cent is well below 16.4 per cent

achieved at the same point last year.

Holden Commodore sales of 4787 units slid

almost 19 per cent to within just 39 units of the

Ford Falcon’s slightly improved 4743 tally. Holden

CEO Denny Mooney told GoAuto last month that,

on the eve of the VE Commodore, it was fi gures

like these that keep him awake at night.

Holden Barina sales should please him though,

with its 1369 sales almost catching the Hyundai

Getz’s 1409 tally (down from January’s strong

1906 total), although Toyota’s ruling Yaris with

1757 sales – though slipping from 1833 – is proof

that the change from Echo has been seamless.

Suzuki Swift (858), Kia Rio (661) and VW’s

refreshed Polo (110) have also shown good

progress.

Small-car sales may have been up in February

but down on the same time in 2005, however their

market share increased to 21.8 per cent against

last year’s 20.9 overall. With 3396 Toyota Corolla,

2577 Mazda3 and 1646 Holden Astra sales, this

triumvirate accounted for almost half of all new

small-car sales under $40,000.

Nissan must be concerned with only 708 Tiida

cars fi nding homes in its February debut month.

Running at around half of those projected, it is

also 384 units down on February 2005’s 1420

Pulsar total even with the 328 Pulsars sold last

month included.

Holden’s small-car share dropped 2.1 per

cent month-on-

month despite the

new Viva’s arrival,

Ford’s Focus is up

slightly, while the

Honda Civic’s 4.7

per cent share – up

from 2.8 in February

2005 – is impressive

considering the new

model’s on-sale date

was February 23.

Medium cars below $55,000 tripped to 7.1

per cent of the total passenger car market (down

from 7.7), with the recently revamped Hyundai

Sonata and new VW Jetta being the only sunny

spots here. Meanwhile, in the Medium $55K-plus

sector money talks because the more-affordable

Alfa 156, Saab 9-3 and Volvo S40/V50 duo all

increased their sales.

And so does fresh metal, since the BMW

E90 3 Series, Lexus IS250 and the Audi A4 all

increased their market share. Chrysler’s 130

300C sales outdid Ford’s Fairlane but not the

256-selling Holden Statesman/Caprice, while the

new Mercedes S-class’ 41-unit result topped the

$100K-plus Upper Large dominion.

Toyota is dominating both SUV Compact and

SUV Large sales with its RAV4 and LandCruiser

respectively. Ford’s reigning Territory gained sales

in February but is down almost 25 per cent year-

on-year in the medium SUV sector, with Toyota’s

Kluger and Prado also recording similar drops.

With passenger vehicle and SUV sales down

4.3 and 13 per cent respectively, only the light-

truck segment grew year-on-year in February. Star

performances here came from Toyota’s refreshed

HiLux ute and HiAce van models, Holden’s

Crewman and the golden-oldies Mitsubishi

Triton and Nissan D22 Navara. Refl ecting fuel

price concerns, while the rear-drive Falcon and

Commodore utes continue their slide, the V

Triton and 4x2 Ford Courier picked up some of

their slack.

At 77,466, overall new-vehicle sales were

down 3695 units (or 4.6 per cent) on February

2005’s record 81,141. Yet last month’s tally was

still the second-best February total ever. The

Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries still

predicts 980,000 sales for 2006, which would

about match the record 2005 result.

VFACTS

WRAP380 claws 380 claws backback

Nissan Tiida

Mitsubishi 380




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By MARTON PETTENDY

TOYOTA Australia refused to wade into the

Barina sedan safety debate at the launch of the

most direct rival for Holden’s controversial new

light car last week, but conceded safety will be the

cornerstone of the marketing campaign for its all-

new Yaris sedan.

Designed and manufactured in Japan, Yaris is

one of the few light cars – known as “superminis”

in Europe – to achieve a fi ve-star crash test rating

from the crash safety authority Euro NCAP.

Holden launched its representative for the

emerging light-sedan category last month in the

shape of its fi rst ever Barina sedan, sourced from

GM Daewoo in South Korea.

Priced signifi cantly lower than the $17,690 Yaris

sedan at $14,490, Barina sedan’s donor vehicle, the

Chevrolet-badged Aveo, achieved a dismal two-star

ENCAP crash rating two weeks ago.

But Toyota was unwilling to enter into a

discussion on the notchback Barina’s safety

record, and backed up Holden’s offi cial policy of

objecting to ENCAP’s crash-test procedures.

“I’d just remind everybody that NCAP is a

measure, which is outside the ADRs (Australian

Design Rules),” said Toyota Australia executive

chairman John Conomos. “Cars must meet ADRs

or they can’t come into the country. Whether it’s

a small car or a large luxury car, it must pass the

ADR test.

“ENCAP has its own set of values, and the fact

it (Barina) didn’t do very well could conjure up

in the minds of some that it’s not safe. But that’s

incorrect: the car meets ADRs.

“Whether it meets the standards set down by

ENCAP, in whichever part of the world they test,

whatever car they test, in which conditions they

test, which specifi cation they test … all those are

unknown factors. “Keep it in perspective: cars that

come into this country must meet ADRs. Don’t

confuse it with ENCAP ratings which in this

country the industry doesn’t recognise.”

Toyota did, however, stress the built-in safety

of all its models, and admitted safety is and will

continue to be emphasised in the marketing

campaign for Toyota’s newest light-car entrant.

“We’re very mindful of these issues and, yes,

we’ll be pushing the safety message (of Yaris)

very strongly – because it is in fact the safest

vehicle you can get in the category. It’s obviously

a unique selling point,” Mr Conomos said.

“One of our fundamentals is GOA (Global

Outstanding Assessment), a policy by which

every one of our cars strives to establish standards

way above those in any part of the world for every

model. We’re not driven by ENCAP – although

we do take notice of it – but we do establish

standards that are up to and in some cases ahead

of ENCAP performance.”

Boot scooter - next page

Safety stress

Chevrolet Aveo

Toyota Yaris

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By MARTON PETTENDY

TOYOTA has added a sedan variant to the all-

new Yaris hatch range it released Down Under

in October, and it is a sign of the times that the

Japanese brand’s newest light car is as big and as

powerful as the venerable EH Holden.

Priced from $17,690 ($19,190 for the auto), the

single-model Yaris YRS four-door is considerably

larger than the similarly equipped, mid-range

YRS fi ve-door hatch, yet is $300 cheaper.

Australia’s top-selling car brand claims the

booted Yaris – which is also as big as the current

Corolla sedan – will bridge the gap between the

light- and small-car categories. As such, Toyota

admits the largest Yaris will steal sales from

Toyota’s own Corolla, which is $2160 more

expensive in entry-level sedan guise and will be

replaced by a larger new model next year.

Designed in Japan but offering the same crisp,

edgy styling fi rst seen on the European-styled

hatch, the fi ve-speed manual and four-speed auto

sedan brings the number of Yaris model variants

to 14.

Toyota Australia claims the sedan’s key

attributes are safety, space and value for money.

As with the Yaris hatch, which comprises

three and fi ve-door YR, YRS and YRX variants

starting at $14,990, a $750 safety pack will be

available with the sedan, comprising front side

and full-length side curtain airbags for a total of

six. However, the safety option will not include the

hatch’s world-fi rst (for a light car) kneebag, which

is said to be redundant because of the sedan’s

different dashboard shape.

Powered by the same 80kW/141Nm 1.5-litre

16-valve DOHC VVT-i four-cylinder engine as

the YRS and YRX hatch, the YRS sedan measures

4300mm long (120mm longer than Echo sedan),

1690mm wide (30mm wider), 1460mm high

(50mm lower) and has wheel tracks

of 1470mm (front, up 30mm) and

1460mm (rear, up 40mm).

Its 2550mm wheelbase is 70mm

longer than the Barina sedan’s,

90mm longer than the Yaris hatch’s and 180mm

longer than the Echo sedan’s, while its 0.26Cd

drag coeffi cient is one point better than the Yaris

hatch’s.

Despite the longer wheelbase, its 9.8m turning

circle is the same as the Echo sedan’s while its

interior couple distance (measured between front

and rear hip points) is longer

than the Corolla sedan’s at

905mm. Interestingly, the

Yaris sedan offers a 475-

litre boot – 11 litres bigger

than in the Echo sedan (464

litres), 75 litres bigger than

Barina sedan (400 litres)

and 10 litres bigger than

Holden’s Commodore (465

litres).

The offi cial combined

fuel consumption fi gure is

6.1L/100km for the manual (6.7L/100km auto)

– less than Barina sedan (6.9L/100km manual),

which employs a larger 1.6-litre engine that

delivers less power (76kW) but more torque

(145Nm).

As with the hatch, Yaris sedan employs

new seats, steering, brakes and suspension.

MacPherson struts with lower L-arms reside

up front, ahead of a new trailing

torsion beam rear suspension with

toe-control bush. Steering is via the

same electrically power-assisted

rack-and-pinion system.

There are ventilated 255mm front brake discs,

while the rear wheels make do with drums.

Anti-lock brakes with electronic brake-force

distribution and brake assist are standard. Steel

15 x 5.5-inch wheels, semi-concealed behind six-

spoke plastic wheel covers, are shod with 185/60

R15 tyres.

Refl ecting YRS hatch specifi cations, standard

equipment includes twin front airbags, fi ve three-

point seatbelts, air-conditioning, power windows,

a height- and reach-adjustable steering wheel,

four-speaker CD/MP3 sound system, powered

wing mirrors, multiple storage compartments,

twin vanity mirrors and a full-size spare wheel.

The sedan adds a 60/40-split folding rear

seat and centrally located analogue instruments

(instead of digital).

For drive impressions, go to www.goauto.com.au from this Friday.

PRICING:YRS 1.5 $17,690YRS 1.5 (a) $19,190

Toyota claims its new light sedan has a bigger boot than a Commodore

Boot scooterBoot scooter

www.motorone.com.auwww.goauto.com.au




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NISSAN ADDS NEW TIERATTEMPTING to

overcome sliding sales,

Nissan Australia has

appointed an executive

with experience at Ford

as its general manager

of marketing and public

relations.

A statement issued

this week said that Ross

Booth comes to the

newly formed position

after holding executive

and marketing positions

with subsidiaries of the Ford Motor Co.

He will be responsible for product planning,

marketing strategy and public relations at

Nissan Australia, with the heads of these three

areas (Michael Hayes, Lynn Blake and Lenore

Fletcher respectively) reporting to him rather

than directly to managing director and CEO

Shinya Hannya.

As the auto sector boomed last year, Nissan

sales dropped more than 7600 units over 2004 to

56,000 for the year. VFACTS fi gures also show

that for the fi rst two months of this year, Nissan’s

sales are down 1000 units year-to-date compared

to last year.

KIA NAMES PR CHIEFJONATHAN Fletcher

has been appointed

the public relations

manager for Kia Motors

Australia. Mr Fletcher

has 20 years’ experience

in public relations,

including experience

in the automotive,

industrial, technology

and government sectors.

He joins Kia after

managing his own PR

consultancy.

Before that he worked for IBM and NCR and

held several senior PR roles across Australia,

New Zealand and South-East Asia. During the

1990s he worked for the Project Group and

worked on automotive clients such as Toyota,

Lexus, Castrol and Yokohama.

MANNY HEADS SAE-ATHE Society of Automotive Engineers

(Australasia) has appointed Manny

Stamatopoulos as its new executive director,

effective March 20. He has had 20 years’

experience in corporate relations and sales, most

recently with AGL has a national sales executive.

STOOKE MOVES TO HUMMERGM HOLDEN

sales and marketing

executive Megan

Stooke, on assignment

in the United States

since last May, has been

appointed as director

of marketing for GM’s

Hummer brand. She

replaces Liz Vanzura,

who has become global

marketing director for

Cadillac.

Ms Stooke left her position as Holden’s

director of sales to assume a role with Chevrolet,

and was most recently the director of advertising

and sales promotion for that brand.

The Melbournian started her career with

Holden in 1995, holding various sales and

marketing positions, including export director

and marketing director. In her new role she

will report to divisional general manager for

Hummer, Martin Walsh. Her replacement has

not yet been named.

Ross BoothMegan Stooke

Jonathan Fletcher

STRONG DESIGNS ON FORDSCOTT Strong has returned to Ford Australia to

resume his post as the head of design, following

Simon Butterworth’s move back to the United

Kingdom to rejoin Ford’s Premier Automotive

Group.

Mr Strong, who is best known for

resuscitating the Falcon with the AUII/III

series and designing the subsequent BA series,

has returned from Detroit where he has been

working in a variety of roles and infl uencing

several vehicles including the Freestyle, Ford

500, Fusion and Mercury Milan.

Mr Strong moved to Detroit early in 2001 at

the request of Ford’s global design chief J Mays

and the head of global product development

Richard Parry-Jones. He had completed two

years of his (minimum) three-year contract in

Australia, an early termination that dismayed

many at Ford Australia including former

president Geoff Polites.

“(J Mays) sees Australia as an

enormous training ground for your

high-priority talent as it’s one of the

few places in the world where you get

the whole box and dice and you are

far enough away to be able to exert

your infl uence,” Mr Polites said at the

time.

The move back to the Australian

“training ground” is an interesting

one. As design director for Ford Asia

Pacifi c and Africa, Mr Strong, 54,

will have responsibility for programs

based out of Australia as well as

overall responsibility for CAF Design

in China, FAP design in Ford’s Hiroshima

studio and a leadership role in the Shanghai

auto shows.

Blue Oval to the bone, Mr Strong had spent

more than 15 years designing Ford cars such as

the Cougar, Focus, Ka and the original Mondeo

before arriving in Australia in January 1999

with the intent to sculpt the BA Falcon. But his

brief soon changed to “fi x the car now”.

In other people news at Ford Australia, Ray

Price has been named as the company’s new

racing manager.

If you have any car industry personnel announcements, please email them to

Terry Martin at [email protected].

Scott Strong

www.motorstaff.com.aumailto:[email protected]




John Mellor's

GoAuto latest road test

Subaru Impreza WRX sedan

Altica

SUBARU has wheeled out a new-look Impreza to locally debut its new, aircraft-inspired corporate face. That you may take or leave, but there’s also something else within the new WRX version that sounds potentially exciting – a huge bump in engine capacity from 2.0 to 2.5 litres. How, you ask, does that affect the performance? Stunningly perhaps? Not quite. In fact according to Subaru’s fi gures it actually accelerates slower to 100km/h. Given it’s got the same super-low fi nal drive ratio and a reasonable torque increase, how can that be so? Can’t explain really, except to say the latest WRX does seem a little more tractable and a little more responsive in the gears. Given that, the new WRX appears to have decided it will leave the all-out performance thing to the hard-edged STi version – which also gets a 2.5-litre engine, but more substantial power and torque increases.

MARCH:Ford Fiesta Zetec upgradeProton SavvyToyota Tarago redesignToyota Yaris sedanVolkswagen Passat redesign

New model diary: CLICK HERE

LAUNCH PADLAUNCH PAD

ROAD TEST: CLICK HERE

GM SELLS SUZUKI SHAREGENERAL Motors was in the process of selling

17.4 per cent of its 20.4 per cent stake in Suzuki as

GoAuto went to press, raising about $US2 billion

in cash from the sale “to enhance the strength of

GM’s balance sheet and liquidity position”.

Overseas reports indicate that Suzuki will keep

its 11 per cent stake in GM Daewoo in South

Korea and that Suzuki and GM will continue joint-

venture projects and shared production initiatives.

There is no word yet on whether GM will also sell

its 12 per cent stake in Isuzu Motors.

GM-TOYOTA FCV DEAL OFFGENERAL Motors will terminate its joint-

research programs on fuel-cell vehicles and

related technology with Toyota at the end of this

month.

According to overseas reports the world’s two

largest car-makers have, in turn, agreed to extend

current co-operation agreements on safety and

emissions-reducing technology for another two

years.

HSV CONFIRMS HOT VXRHOLDEN Special Vehicles used last week’s

Brisbane motor show to confi rm the OPC-tuned

Astra VXR will offi cially join its line-up this

year.

Released in Europe late last year, the AH Astra-

based VXR’s 176kW turbocharged four-cylinder

makes it a direct rival for Ford’s forthcoming

(May) $35,990 166kW Focus XR5. HSV said

the VXR would be sold in “extremely limited”

numbers and retail “under $43,000”.

PREGIO VAN EXITSKIA’S expanded production of its Sportage

4WD wagon in Korea has forced the axing of the

Pregio van, one of the company’s best sellers in

Australia.

However, one of the fi rst points of business

for Kia Motors Australia’s chief operating

offi cer Steve Lotter is to fi nd a replacement. “We

obviously have to plug that hole,” he said. A new

van has not been ruled out in the long-term.

DEALERS OF THE YEARHONDA Australia has named Eastern Honda of

Doncaster (Vic) as its 2005 Dealer of the Year, while

the Chrysler Group has handed its 2005 DOTY

award to Adelaide City Chrysler Jeep (SA).

AUDI AIMS HIGHER AUDI has forecast a minimum 10 per cent growth

in sales volume in Australia this year, following a

30 per cent rise (to 4800 units) in 2005.

Speaking at the Brisbane motor show last

week, Audi Australia’s general manager (sales)

Andrew Doyle said the company would achieve

this by introducing at least one new turbo-diesel

model variant in every major product line as part

of 10 new models and variants it will launch in

total this year. The main arrivals will be the RS4

sedan (May), Q7 4WD (September) and the RS4

Avant (fi nal quarter).

COROLLA DOWN, NOT OUTTHE 1.8-litre engine powering Toyota’s top-

selling Corolla has been detuned, dropping from

100kW of power and 171Nm of torque to 93kW

and 161Nm. A Toyota Australia spokesperson said

this week that the changes were necessary in order

to comply with tougher emissions regulations in

force from January 1. They affect models built

from October 2005. No other changes have been

made to the car, other than prices rising – the range

now starts from $19,850. Despite the changes, and

the fact that a key selling point has gone, Toyota

is having no trouble selling the Corolla – 3395

rolled out of showrooms last month alone.

VOLVO’S BIG YEARVOLVO has confi rmed 2006 will be one of its

biggest years for new-model activity in Australia.

The Swedish brand’s redesigned C70 coupe-

convertible appeared in Brisbane and goes on sale

here in August. The brand’s all-new S80 fl agship

sedan is due on sale here in October, while a

facelifted XC90 4WD (possibly with a V8 engine

option) is slated for a late 2006 release. Volvo’s

all-new C30 compact 4WD will be a mid-2007

Australian arrival following its production debut

at September’s Paris motor show.

SHOW RECORDSMORE than 25,000 visitors packed the Brisbane

Convention and Exhibition Centre on Saturday

– 8000 more than the Brisbane motor show’s

previous one-day record. Organisers expect the

2006 event, which ends this Sunday, to top last

year’s total attendance record of 128,000.

Last month’s Melbourne motor show attracted

a near-record 228,292 visitors. Vehicle sales were

outstanding, with at least one exhibitor selling

more than $3 million worth of cars.

According to organisers, Rolls-Royce sold four

cars and generated another six leads, Bentley took

its fi rst of fi ve Azure orders within 15 minutes

of the show’s opening, Maybach is now talking

with six customers for its new 57S model and

Australia’s fi rst $1.3 million Pagani Zonda sale is

expected soon.

SUBARU SPECIALSSPECIAL-EDITION cars just keep on coming

from Subaru Australia, which over the past week

has introduced an Impreza 2.0R Luxury model

variant and a duotone Outback.

Priced from $31,690 and available in either

sedan or wagon and manual or automatic form,

the Impreza has a claimed $4500 worth of extras

for $1700 over the recommended retail price. It is

offered only in orange, and includes leather trim

and a sunroof.

Meanwhile, the duotone Outback will be

available with three colour combos – white over

grey, blue over grey and black over grey. Pricing

starts from $37,990 for the 2.5-litre model and

$46,490 for the 3.0 auto.

NEW TRITON NEARSMITSUBISHI Australia used Friday’s Brisbane

motor show opening to display the all-new Triton

it revealed in Melbourne, but this time confi rmed

it would be released in dual-cab guise mid-year,

with 3.2-litre turbo-diesel and 3.5-litre petrol

power.

Along with a manual-transmission Colt (which

arrives around June priced from around $16,990),

Mitsubishi’s mini-car range will be bolstered by

1.5-litre and turbocharged versions of the Colt

2+2 cabriolet around August, followed by the

Allan Heaphy-tuned Colt Super Ralliart Turbo.

Mitsubishi also restated its desire to offer the

quirky “i” micro-car. It features a mid-mounted

660cc turbo that drives the rear wheels.
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March 8, 2006 No. 180 Simply red · Simply red DIGITAL IMAGE: Chris Harris March 8, 2006 No. 180 GoAutoe-news John Mellor's No. 326 Specialists in Automotive Residual Value Research!UTOMOTIVE"USINESS)NTELLIGENCE