Company Vehicle Magazine October 2012

October 2012

AMAROK AUTOMATIC $8.20 incl. GST

ADRENALIN PUBLISHING

➧V ehicle fit out ➧ Fleet management ➧C orporate Identity ➧A utomechanika

LCV REVIEW:

We look at utes and large vans

M MDZ2 3977

IF YOU DON’T NOTICE THE EXTRA CABIN SPACE, THE GUYS IN THE BACK WILL.

Redeveloped from the ground up, the Mazda BT-50 has the on-road ease of

use of a passenger car but still features all the power, torque and tow you need for a working ute. Delivered courtesy of a massive 147kW 5-cylinder 3.2L turbo diesel engine. And everything’s bigger, with more space for gear on the tray and enough room in the cabin to keep even the biggest blokes happy in the back seat. Add in 3 years of Fixed Price Servicing and a 150,000km factory warranty*, and you’ll notice that ‘life after work’ takes on a whole new meaning. Check out the ultimate work/ weekend vehicle at your local Mazda dealer or by visiting mazda.co.nz today.

THE

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BT-50

YOU’LL NOTICE

* mazda commercialcare Fixed Price Servicing valid for 3 years or 100,000km (whichever occurs first).

Under Fixed Price Servicing you pay no more than $200 (incl. GST) for each 6 month or 10,000km Scheduled Service. mazda commercialcare Genuine Factory Warranty valid for 3 years or 150,000km (whichever occurs first).

4

CONTENTS Cover story 4 The VW Amarok automatic Briefings 6 CCs customer day 8 New lease company, Focus record 10 BT-50 on The Block 12 Keeping drivers ‘clean’ News 14 Ford’s new models revealed 15 New management system 16 Golf 7 unveiled 17 Coke NZ’s safety award New models 18 MG6 hits town 19 Hyundai i20 uplifted 20 The delectable Toyota 86 Workhorse 22 Light commercials review 29 Holden Colorado 2WD 30 A pair of Navaras 32 Kia 2500 34 Iveco Daily 36 LWB Ford Transit

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For more road reports this issue, check out www.companyvehicle.co.nz Features 37 Vehicle fitout 40 We visit Automechanika 46 Fleet management 53 Corporate identity Eco 42 Sporty LPG Holden 44 Suzuki Swift diesel 45 Kia Rio ISG Executive 49 Audi Q3 50 Chrysler 300 51 Lexus GS250 52 Volvo XC90

Road reports 56 Toyota Camry long-term 58 Civic duo 60 Toyota Avensis 61 Peugeot 4008 62 Mazda CX-5 63 Great Wall X200 64 Cruzing couple 66 Nissan X-Trail 67 Mercedes B200 68 Directory Prices 69 Latest listings

New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012

1

The licensing debate rages on www.companyvehicle.co.nz

October 2012 Managing Editor John Oxley john@adrenalin.co.nz Editor-at-large Robert Barry robert@adrenalin.co.nz Associate Editor Damien O’Carroll damien@companyvehicle.co.nz Automotive Group Sales Manager Dan Prestige dan@companyvehicle.co.nz Advertising Manager Dave Nicholson dave@adrenalin.co.nz Publisher Cathy Parker cathy@adrenalin.co.nz Subscription Manager/Enquiries Sarah Holyoake subs@companyvehicle.co.nz Circulation Manager Kim McIntosh kim@adrenalin.co.nz Proof Reading - George Ward Adrenalin Publishing Ltd 14C Vega Place, Mairangi Bay, PO Box 65092 Mairangi Bay, Auckland 0754 Phone: 09 478 4771

NZ Company Vehicle magazine is magazine is a bi-monthly - six issue annual subscription in New Zealand is $48 (incl GST). Call us for overseas rates.

NZ Company Vehicle is copyright and may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the written permission of the publisher. Neither editorial opinions expressed nor facts stated in advertisements are necessarily agreed to by the editor or publisher of NZ Company Vehicle and, whilst all efforts are made to ensure accuracy, no responsibility will be taken by the publishers for inaccurate information, or for any consequences of reliance on this information.

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The essential guide for businesses October 2011

20

Celebrating years

Executive Car

Hilux upGRAded

$8.20 incl. GST

ADRENALIN PUBLISHING

2

➧ Services to fleets ➧ LCV market reviewed ➧G roup test: seven pool cars

Not since Sue Bradford’s anti-smacking bill has so much interest been generated among the whole spectrum of society as the government’s planned Vehicle Licensing Reform programme.

The discussion document released by the government proposes a series of options which would see less frequent warrant of fitness (WoF) and certificate of fitness (CoF) inspections for many vehicles.

Some options include no inspections for vehicles up to three years old, with others suggesting a distance-based regime. While the government claims these options have the potential to provide motorists with more convenience for less apparent cost, they do provide substantial risk.

The Motor Trade Association’s Ian Stronrach says: “Government is assuming that vehicle defects currently make little contribution to road crashes and that reducing the frequency of vehicle inspections will have no effect on crash rates. MTA consider this is overly optimistic and represents a considerable risk to all road users if those assumptions prove ill-founded.

“New Zealand has one of the most frequent inspection regimes in the world for good reason.

We have an old fleet by world standards and it is getting older.

“The age profile of our fleet is also out of step with that of other countries, with a huge ‘bubble’ of cars manufactured from 1996-1998.

Only a minority of our state highway system is rated at greater than 3-star, with few roads enjoying any form of permanent lane separation system.

“With WoF and CoF inspections acting as a trigger for vehicle maintenance for many owners, it plays a key role in maintaining the state of our fleet at a very basic level. MTA will be providing a strong submission to Government to retain current inspection frequencies, but believes the inspection process can be improved to take into account the many new safety technologies in today’s vehicles.

“There should be no changes to the current system unless there is a stronger commitment to education on maintaining vehicles and significantly more police enforcement. While that might be achievable in the longer term, it is likely to result in a transfer of costs from motorists to government thereby defeating the very aims the reforms set out to achieve”.

Meanwhile VTNZ, one of the largest companies involved in WoF and CoF inspections, says plans to save motorists time and money could have the exact opposite effect - and see an

increase in the number of road accidents.

“We support any initiative to make the licensing more efficient and use advances in technology to reduce costs for motorists,”says VTNZ chief executive Mike Walsh, “but the options need to be well-informed and we’ll be making comprehensive submissions on these options.

“Efficiency gains and short-term cost reductions need to be weighed up against the potential impact on safety. On the face of it, the potential risks are too high, and could lead to a significant increase in road accidents.”

Walsh says international research into links between vehicle defects and crashes varies greatly, but it’s ironic that while NZ is looking to relax our inspection system, Europe and the US are looking to tighten theirs.

“Modern cars are built to better standards, but even newer cars wear out tyres and brakes and our roads are some of the toughest in the world. The average age of the New Zealand vehicle fleet is 13 years and one thing we can be sure of is that age and mileage increase the number of defects.

“At the moment half of all cars going for warrants will not pass without some repairs. If the period between inspections doubles, then the number of defects will also increase, quite likely at a faster rate if you think of the compounding or snowballing effect.”

Walsh says most drivers use their WoF as their regular safety and maintenance check.

People are used to paying a little, regularly, to keep their car safe – moving to annual checks is also likely to see the average repair bill increase and outweigh any savings.

“Changing behaviour takes time, and there could be significant costs in police enforcement and education that will add to taxpayer costs somewhere else. At the same time, there’s a greater risk of accidents and road deaths.

“No matter how new your car is, or how well you look after it, there’s usually only a white line separating you from the vehicle coming the other way.”

What’s your take on this? Send an email to john@adrenalin.co.nz and let’s air your views!

20

Celebrating years

New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012

TF

Steve Price, Toyota Financial Services brand ambassador

Big. Reliable. Trusted.

While you’ll find some pretty big numbers behind New Zealand’s largest specialist fleet finance and leasing company – but just as in sport, the stats only tell part of the story.

With more than 30,000 vehicles on the road, in excess of NZ$1 billion in assets and over 20 years of skin in the game, you can be sure that when you bring your finance or leasing requirements to Toyota Financial Services, we have the size and experience to customise the best possible response to your brief.

And you can trust us to play by consistent rules, because as part of the large and ultra-stable Toyota group, we’re one fleet services company that’s definitely here for the duration.

Visit tfs.co.nz or call 0508 46 86 96 to find out more.

We believe in going the extra mile.

TFS9411_K

cover story

Amarok auto finally here It’s been a long time coming, but Volkswagen has finally been able to launch the automatic version of its much-vaunted Amarok ute – and at the same time has gone further towards closing the missing ranks in the total Amarok line with Super Single Cab versions. John Oxley reports.

Currently the automatic Amarok is only available in top-of-the-range Double Cab 4WD trim, although more versions are expected to follow.

In a massive slide away from current market trends, Volkswagen has chosen to use a single gearbox in its 4WD auto models, with no transfer case to give low ratios.

The 8-speed gearbox, made by ZF and also found in the all-wheel-drive Audi A8 luxury sedan, features overall ratios lower than might be found on an SUV or crossover, but an anticipated ultra-low “crawler” gear has not been included in this version, Volkswagen choosing instead to rely on its vast palette of electronic aids to ensure traction in extreme conditions.

However, a Torsen (torque sensing) diff. IS part of the gearbox package to automatically apportion drive between front and rear axles as required. And Volkswagen says the torque multiplication of the torque converter in the auto ‘gearbox compensates for this lack of a really low ratio. We’ll detail overall ratios elsewhere.

At the same time as launching the auto, VW has also seen fit to present its latest twin turbo version of the 2-litre TDI engine into the Amarok, lifting power to 132kW and 420Nm of torque to put

4

New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012

it firmly into the ballpark of its “big ute” competitors from Ford, Mazda, and Holden, although the Nissan Navara ST-X 550 V6 still clearly leads the pack when it comes to power and torque.

In terms of pricing the Amarok comes in lower than expected. At $64,990 it’s around $3,000 more expensive than the Ford, Mazda and Holden, and just more than $2,000 less than the Nissan.

And for the first time in a ute the

automatic transmission is combined with permanent four-wheel drive, improving further the simplicity of driveability, while all Amaroks get a tow rating of 3,000kg.

At the same time the Amarok has the widest space in the load bed between its wheel arches, at 1,220mm enough to put a pallet in lengthways across the vehicle.

The Highline level offers a high luxury specification level, with climate control aircon, power windows and mirrors, cruise

going. However, judicious throttle control, plus the standard traction control, got us moving along easily, then Pete encouraged me to show off a bit with some rally-style driving that got the vehicle about as far sideways as you could go without spinning!

The Amarok was very easy to control as I flicked it lock-to-lock while keeping the power on, and afterwards Pete was uberenthusiastic about the Torsen diff’s ability to send torque to where the grip was.

Other tests showed the Amarok’s ability to crawl slowly as we traversed a sideling alongside the river, while the river crossings were a doddle, and the only piece of uncontrolled enthusiasm a mangled descent with mud-clogged tyres, with the best way to control by keeping some power on so at least we could turn at the bottom without getting stuck in the mudbath there.

control, 17-inch alloys with flared arches, leather multi-function steering wheel and Bluetooth connectivity, as well as a singledisc MP3 compatible CD player/radio with iPod connectivity.

There are also chrome accents and a rear bumper.

The Super Single Cab offers a 4Motion 4WD model with the 120kW/400Nm 2-litre twin turbo TDI engine, linked to a 6-speed manual gearbox.

The “Super Cab” name refers to extra space behind the seats to cater for taller drivers or additional load space for more valuable items that owners may not want to put in the wellside.

Cab/chassis will also be available for those wishing to install a flat bed.

The same high level of safety equipment carries down from the current Amarok model line-up, with the new variants also featuring ESP as standard, as well as front airbags for driver and front passenger plus head/thorax airbags.

The Amarok Super Single Cab features a wellside that has been extended to 2,205mm with the same overall vehicle length and wheelbase as the four-door double cab. The load bed, which is 65cm longer than that of the double cab, can easily accommodate two standard sized pallets crosswise, one behind the other, leaving another 60cm of bed length available.

The 4WD models have a full 5-star safety rating.

Volkswagen claims overall consumption of 8.3L/100km and CO2 emissions of 219 g/ km for the new automatic, which is lower than any of its immediate competition.

Volkswagen chose a really iffy day to launch the Amarok, but it did at least

ensure that we were able to test it in typical Kiwi winter conditions – i.e. wet and muddy.

After driving out of Auckland, on motorway and on country roads – all of which served to show that the Amarok auto has great flexibility, quiet cruising, and (still) the best on- road ride in the ute business – we arrived at a farm south of Auckland where a great course had been set up in the paddocks – bisected by a river – by off-road training guru Pete Richie and his Natural Instincts team.

Pete admitted he was a bit worried, because much of where we would be driving had in fact been under flood water scant days before our arrival, and the surface was slick with mud.

Our first test was a slithering slalom, and many of my colleagues battled to even get

So how low is the gearing? The ZF HP8 gearbox has a first gear ratio of 4.714 to 1, but the final drive ratio is high at 3.7 to 1, giving an overall lowest ratio of only 17.44 to 1, better than your average “soft-roader” SUV, but not by a lot.

However, adding in the torque converter factor changes this dramatically, with our estimate (based on a typical multiplication factor of 2.5:1) of possible crawl speeds equivalent to 43.6 to 1. To put this into perspective, the Land Cruiser 70 manual has overall gearing of 42.6 to 1.

Prices Super Single Cab manual Double Cab manual Double Cab Highline manual Double Cab Highline auto

$49,990 $56,500 $61,990 $64,990

New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012

5

BRIEFINGS

Automatically inspired Amarok

The Volkswagen Commercial division of Continental Car Services (CCS) recently held a drive day for fleet and private customers to sample both the on-road and off-road capability of the new double cab Amarok 4x4 automatic utility.

More than 50 CCS customers ventured off-road around a challenging course on the Te Kainga Farm in Maramarua, supervised by Natural Instincts instructor Pete Ritchie and his team.

the Amarok’s off-road credentials. Because of the wet and muddy conditions these particular vehicles were fitted with proper mud tyres for additional traction and safety.

At the conclusion of the off-road section, the guests were then invited to take an Amarok fitted with normal road tyres for a 30 minute test run around the local roads, with a trailer hitched to each vehicle to highlight the vehicles towing capacity.

CCS also had a new single cab version of the Amarok 4x4 fitted with an aftermarket deck and mud tyres for customers to view and The Volkswagen Amarok Ute is h drive if they wished to. much-anticipated BradleyThe Carrick says the day-longAmarok exercisehas arrived. And tr in a range reliable, hi-performance T proved to Available be a successful one asofmany guests TDI which thumps out an impressive 400Nms of t came away with a greater appreciation of the Its highly fuel-efficient engine technology, combi Amarok’s overall capacity as a multipurpose fuel stops. With the r go up to 1,000 kms# between utility vehicle which is suitable for both fleet enough and private buyers.space for the family, or for the boys. Along

CCS Volkswagen Commercial manager Bradley Carrick says the concept of the day was expose both current owners and potential fleet buyers to the ability of the new 8-speed automatic version of the all-wheeldrive Amarok, which is supplied with a twin turbocharged 420Nm diesel engine.

For more than 90 minutes the guests were able to drive around the rugged terrain of Te Kainga farm on a route which had been laid out by the Natural Instincts team to highlight

Double Cab Highline is the first Double Cab 4WD 5-star ANCAP safety rating. It also boasts the large 1.15 tonnes - so equipment like quads and dirt bik

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New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012

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e is here. Test drive it now.

And true to its badge, it sets the standard in its class. nce TDI Diesel engines, including the Twin Turbo ms of torque from 1,500 rpm, making towing a cinch. ombined with an 80-litre fuel tank means you can much-anticipated Amarok has arrived. And true to its badge, it sets the standard in its class. the roomiest cabinThe in the market, there’s more than Along with impressive performance, Amarok Available in a the range of reliable, hi-performance TDI Diesel engines, including the Twin Turbo 4WD ute in the New Zealand market to receive a TDIa which thumps out largest load area, with payload capacity of up to an impressive 400Nms of torque from 1,500 rpm, making towing a cinch.

Tough.

And smart. rt bikes can be loaded and out easily.

And its 2.8 engine technology, combined with an 80-litre fuel tank means you can Its in highly fuel-efficient

The Volkswagen Amarok Ute is here. Test drive it now.

An intelligent ute for a life with challenges.

The is complete.

Now Amarok everyone.

The range Volkswagen Amarok Utethere's is here.anTest drive itfor now.

ave to leave the boat behind. The Amarok is available # Where other utes get stuck,

thehas Amarok gets unites cross-country mobility, between fuel stops.

With thegoing. roomiest cabin initthe market, more than go upmuch-anticipated toin1,000 Available a rangekms of reliable, hi-performance TDI Diesel engines, including the Twin Turbo TDI, 2WD standard andthere’s 4Motionin high/low 4X4 The Amarok arrived.

And true toItits badge, sets the its class. enough space for theoffamily, for the boys.

Along with impressive Amarok flexibility and efficiency likeorno other pickup.

You won’t believe itincluding until you’ve driven it.

Available in a range reliable, hi-performance TDI Diesel engines,performance, thethe Twin Turbo ould go on. But talking about it will never compare The Amarok Double Cab Highline and Standard models are the firstute 4WDin utes in the New Zealand market to receive a 5-star a Cab Highline is the first Double Cab 4WD the New Zealand market to receive range a test drive Double .

TDI which thumps out an impressive torque from 1,500 making a cinch.

ANCAP safety rating.

The Double Cab enables you to400Nms carry up toof 5 people comfortably, with arpm, payload capacitytowing of up to 1.15 tonnes.

Available in either two-wheel drive or 4Motion high/low ratio 4X4 drive variants with a range of features to suit your lifestyle.

5-star ANCAP safety rating.

It also boasts the largest load area, with a payload capacity of up to Call Continental Car Services Volkswagencombined on 0800 AMAROK to book drive today, Its highly fuel-efficient engine technology, with an 80-litre fuelyour tanktest means you can 0* # 1.15 tonnes - so equipment like quads and dirt bikes can beleading loaded in and out And its 2.8 between fuel With the roomiest cabin incabin the market, there’s more than go Amarok up towhy 1,000 kms The Super Single Cab is considered tostops. be the classic 'workhorse'.

Class in room andeasily. tray space while and see we are New Zealand’s number one Volkswagen Commercial Dealership.

ow ratio all-wheel drive a range of cab, Manual and Auto. drivevariants, variants,with Double or Single

boastingtowing an extremely low fuel means consumption fromnever only 7.5have litres per kms. tonne you’ll to100 leave boat behind.

The Amarok is available enough spacecapacity for the family, or for the boys. Along with the impressive performance, the Amarok The much anticipated Amarok 8-speed Automatic is class-leading, not only does it improve drivability on and off road, but it in eitherCab two-wheel drive or first 4Motion ratio all-wheel drive variants, withto a range ofalso Double Highline is the Double Cab2008, 4WD ute in the New Zealand market receive a Commercial Dealer of the Year for high/low 2007, 2009, 2010 & 2011. provides the optimum in fuel economy.

Combined with our high performance Twin Turbo TDI engine with 4Motion permanent different features to suit your lifestyle.

Wefrom could go on. about it& will never compare 4X4 drive, it thumps out an impressive torque 1,750 rpm, andBut itsarea, 3 talking tonne towing capacity means you never 5-star ANCAP rating.

It420Nm also of boasts the largest load with a2010, payload capacity ofhave up to to Sold the mostsafety commercial vehicles in NZ for 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011 leave the boat behind. to driving it.-So us on like quads and to arrange a test 1.15 tonnes so call equipment dirt bikes candrive be loaded in and out easily. And its 2.8.

We can gotowing on, but talking aboutmeans it them will never never comparehave to driving one. Which do behind. you want toThe test drive? tonne capacity you’ll to leave the one boat Amarok is available Call Bradley or Bernie on: 0800 AMAROK

The newtwo-wheel Amarok. drive Priced $43,000* in either or from 4Motion high/low ratio all-wheel drive variants, with a range of The Amarok range. Priced from $41,990*

s in an 80 litre fuel tank. **Excludes Excludes on-road costs. different features toshown suit may your lifestyle.

We could on road costs, models include optional extras

Supercab will be available from January 2013.

to driving it. So call us on

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#

Based on a combined fuel consumption of 7.3litres/100kms in an 80 litre fuel tank. * Excludes on-road costs.

#

Based on a combined fuel consumption of 7.3litres/100kms in an 80 litre fuel tank. * Excludes on-road costs.

.

BRIEFINGS

Maxxia is new fleet player

Maxxia Fleet is the latest vehicle leasing provider to establish itself in New Zealand, and says it is focussed on providing a “service first” approach for clients.

Although the name is new, the company previously operated in New Zealand as Holden Leasing when that company was acquired from GMAC in 2010.

While new to New Zealand, Maxxia has provided fleet management and vehicle leasing services to organisations in Australia through its associated companies Interleasing and Holden Leasing since 1984.

Kerry Rice, general Manager of Maxxia New Zealand, says that while the company was initially established to support Australian clients who have operations in New Zealand, interest has been surprisingly strong from all market sectors.

Kerry believes the time is right for

establishing the New Zealand base and says, “Due to New Zealand companies delaying replacing their fleet over the last few years as a result of the global financial crisis, we know there is a large fleet turnover expected in the next 12-18 months, and we are well positioned to play a major part in this.”

With many years’ of experience in vehicle leasing, Kerry strongly believes that while price is always important in selecting a leasing provider, it certainly shouldn’t be the most important criteria.

“Having a supplier that truly understands your business can yield greater dividends for the client in the long run,” Kerry says.

“Maxxia’s service philosophy ensures we are able to offer a personalised service to our clients, regardless of the size or scale of their business. Our asset finance and management expertise means we can find the right vehicle at the right price, and manage the finance, delivery, maintenance, repairs and disposal of fleet vehicles on our client’s behalf.”

Maxxia is part of the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) listed McMillan Shakespeare Group, which has 28 years of experience delivering asset management and employee benefit solutions throughout Australasia.

The group manages more than 50,000 vehicles for a range of corporate, government and public sector companies and employs over 700 people in the Australasian region. Further information 0800 MAXXIA (629942) or www.maxxia.co.nz.

Ford Focus is tops Ford Focus is the world’s best-selling single car nameplate in 2012, having outsold every other model of car in the first six months of the year.

Focus became the best-selling single car nameplate in the world, based on global data from IHS Automotive. According to IHS Automotive, the Ford Focus sold 489,616 units in the first half of this year. The nearest competitor, Toyota Corolla, sold 462,187*.

The Focus also plays a key role in delivering a major Ford milestone as a model produced at Rayong, Thailand, becomes the 350 millionth vehicle the company has produced in its history.

The Ford Focus first appeared in Europe in 1998 and won the 1999 “Car of the Year” award. The current, third generation of the mid-size car – launched last year – was designed on an unprecedented global scale, helping to make more technologies and features economically viable than ever before for cars in this segment.

Key innovations in the new Focus include Active City Stop low-speed safety system, Active Park Assist, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keeping Aid, Traffic Sign Recognition, Auto High Beam, Driver Alert and Adaptive Cruise Control.

1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine, which was named the 2012 “International Engine of the Year” in June. A zero emissions Focus Electric, Ford’s first ever all-electric passenger car, will be available in 2013.

Take a fresh look at your vehicle leasing arrangements.

Maxxia, a new name in fleet leasing.

Maxxia are a new name in vehicle leasing and fleet management in New Zealand. Our aim is to offer a personalised service, and give you a greater choice when it comes to selecting a leasing provider for your vehicle fleet.

• Personalised service

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Put us to the test – request a quote today.

Call 0800 MAXXIA (629942) or visit maxxia.co.nz MAXMKG_B2B_NZ_NLAd_0912.indd 1

8

New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012

19/09/12 2:38 PM

G

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M{zd{ 6

BRIEFINGS

Been around The Block

The Block host Mark Richardson and his BT-50 Limited As part of a long-standing partnership with MediaWorks, Mazda NZ recently supplied five BT-50 double cab Utilities for use on the inaugural NZ series of “The Block” produced by TV3 and Eyeworks Television.

With the last episode broadcast on September 5, The Block was unique in that it was the only reality-style television series where not one single person knew the outcome of the competition until the final night.

It was only when the four properties renovated by the contestant couples were auctioned off that siblings Ben and Libby Crawford emerged the winners with their property selling for the highest amount over reserve.

Making such television programmes requires a large commercial investment, and Mazda NZ was supportive of the The Block concept, because DIY home renovations are a common cultural thread among New Zealand consumers.

Three Mazda BT-50 GSX automatics and one BT-50 GSX manual model were supplied to the four competing couples.

Host Mark Richardson found himself in a digitally wrapped BT-50 Limited with some factory options fitted during the 10-week production schedule.

According to Mazda New Zealand national sales and marketing manager Glenn Harris, all contestants and host Mark Richardson said they were genuinely impressed with how easy the vehicles were to use.

“One contestant said it would be very hard to go back to using his old work truck, after his experience behind the wheel of the BT-50 he was supplied with,” says Glenn.

“Two other couples have also indicated to us that they wanted the option to buy their BT-50 trucks at the end of the competition.”

He says The Block offered a perfect environment and platform to showcase the features and benefits and flexibility delivered by the Mazda BT-50 to a wider audience.

“It was an opportunity to place the Mazda BT-50 in a very natural, believable context and show the vehicle’s capability

in a completely authentic and unscripted fashion,” he said.

“We didn’t give any instructions or dictate any terms to the production crew on how the vehicle was to be used on camera. We just simply wanted the contestant couples and host to use the BT-50 vehicles as they would in normal everyday life.

“The BT-50 not only needs to do everything demanded of a ute, it also needs to have the technology and convenience demanded by everyday drivers. During the filming of ‘The Block’ this was shown by the contestants using the standard-fitment handsfree Bluetooth connectivity, and the independent power outlets used to power a number of in-car production components.

“Through The Block NZ, the BT-50 has reaffirmed how far utility vehicles have come in fulfilling the needs of contemporary New Zealand users; evolving to become the new multipurpose lifestyle vehicle. They are no longer just utilitarian vehicles for the trades.”

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We’ve all heard the horror stories about the abuse of drugs and alcohol in the community, and there is no doubt that this has a flow-on effect in the workplace.

Consequently fleet vehicles are considered part of the workplace, which can leave employers open to liability and expense if an employee is found to be operating one whilst under the influence of drugs and alcohol.

Incorporated in 2005, the nationally based New Zealand Drug Detection Agency (NZDDA) has supplied specialist services

to employers and companies who wish to conduct drug and alcohol testing amongst their staff members.

The company was one of the first fully compliant AS/NZS 4308:2008 onsite testing providers and is recognised through New Zealand as a leader in the field of on-site testing NZDDA has 15 branches throughout New Zealand with specialist on-site testing vehicles attached to each branch office where the company has qualified collecting and screening staff.

• Pre-employment, post accident, reasonable cause and random testing • Methamphetamine detection service for property buyers and landlords

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Inside the NZDDA mobile testing vehicle

Petrol & Diesel.

Great.

The V240 4x2 Petrol

$25,990 4x4 $3,000 extra.

+ORC

Metallic paint an optional extra.

The V200 4x2 Diesel

$27,990 4x4 $3,000 extra.

+ORC

Metallic paint an optional extra.

OB1452CV

At last the Great Ute of China, the V240 4x2 has some competition. The Great Diesel Ute of China. The V200 4x2. Loaded with features and a 3 year/100,000km warranty, these utes don’t just offer good value, they offer Great Value.

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NEWS

Ford unveils new Mondeo and Fiesta Ford has unveiled new versions of two of its most important and best-selling cars – the Mondeo and the Fiesta.

Built on Ford’s global CD-segment platform, the new Mondeo will be available, like the existing car, as a five-door and wagon, as well as a four-door that will also be offered as segment-first petrol Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV).

But the most unique engine in the Mondeo line up will be the 1.0-litre, three-cylinder EcoBoost engine, which was recently announced as the 2012 “International Engine of the Year”.

“This is the most premium Mondeo we’ve ever built and the most premium vehicle Ford’s loyal European customers have ever been offered,” said Barb Samardzich, Vice President, Product Development, Ford of Europe. “It raises the bar in its segment in terms of style, technology and quality.”

Mondeo will be the first Ford to feature headlights with LED high-beam, low-beam and signal lighting. Quicker to illuminate, more durable and more energy-efficient than traditional filament bulb headlamps, the

Mondeo’s LED headlights turn with the steering and adapt beam projection to vehicle speed.

The Mondeo HEV will be Ford’s first hybrid passenger car for Europe, and combines a specially-developed 2.0-litre petrol engine with a 35kW lithium-ion battery to provide high fuel economy and low CO2 emissions. For the first time on Mondeo, a diesel all-wheel drive variant will also be offered.

Mondeo will also offer segment-first SYNC with MyFord Touch, a voice-activated in-car

connectivity system that delivers an eight-inch colour touchscreen and the ability to act as a WiFi hotspot for up to five devices.

The new Fiesta also delivers an advanced package of technologies including SYNC and will also be equipped with the 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine.

“Fiesta has been one of the world’s bestloved small cars across five decades, and the sporty appeal of the last generation Fiesta inspired real passion among global compact car customers, contributing to its status as the world’s most successful small car,” said Martin Smith, Ford of Europe executive design director. “We had to keep that vital part of Fiesta’s make-up – but we also wanted to give it a more sophisticated look.”

Similar to the Mondeo, the Fiesta’s face is dominated by a trapezoidal front grille, bracketed by laser-cut headlamps with daytime running lamps that use LED technology.

Ford will reveal more details about the new European Fiesta range at the Paris Motor Show in September.

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14 New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012

23/05/12 12:52 PM

NEWS

TrackIt – a simple system

GPS TRACKING, MESSAGING & JOBS A comprehensive fleet management system produces more than just dots on a map telling you where your vehicles are. It gives you valuable insights into how your assets and drivers are operating, identifies areas where improvements can be made and helps increase the overall efficiency of your business.

TrackIt is claimed to be the simplest, fully integrated and easy-to-use fleet management system currently on offer in the New Zealand market, combining cutting-edge technology with a powerful software platform and low cost.

With a large or even medium sized fleet of vehicles, one of the biggest operating costs is inevitably fuel. Due to continuing petrol and diesel price rises, anything that can cut down fuel costs is a welcome relief. This is one of the many things that the TrackIt fleet management service can help with. You can make sure that drivers are sticking to their assigned routes and also cut down on idle time, by finding out where your vehicles have stopped and for how long. This type of information is part of what TrackIt offers to help improve efficiency.

TrackIt further allows easy compliance when it comes to WOF, COF, registration certificates, speeding and even road user charges. Because TrackIt is constantly updated about what your vehicle is

doing, you can easily set up alerts for parameters that you define.

Say you would like an alert for when a WOF is due, or you’d like to get an alert for when a driver goes over the speed limit. The system is comprehensive enough to keep track of these things - so you only become aware of them when it’s important. These alerts can be a mix of text messages and emails, and can be sent to multiple people so the right people have the right information to do their job.

Comprehensive reporting is another advantage that can help ensure efficiency and even improve your customer satisfaction. For example, if you have sales representatives that need to visit certain customers then Journey reports can add huge value.

Journey reports tell you where they stopped, for how long, who it was they visited, and how long it took for your rep to get there. All this data helps paint a clear picture about your vehicle and staff movements, allowing you to easily identify where improvements and savings can be made.

TrackIt is easy to install and use, while setup and ongoing costs are minimal. TeamTalk has paired up with TrackIt - for more information call 0800 501 600, or go to http:// www.teamtalk.co.nz/fleetproductivity/trackit.

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NEWS

VW shows off Golf VII phone’s battery.

The new Golf also features a number of innovative standard safety systems, while optional systems include many previously only available on vehicles in a class above.

Standard on all new Golf models is a multi-collision brake system. This automatically brakes the vehicle after a collision, to reduce kinetic energy significantly and thus minimise the chance of a second impact.

Other electronic aids include Adaptive Cruise Control which uses radar sensors to maintain a set distance from the vehicle in front; Front Assist, which can bring the vehicle to a complete stop and operates at speeds of up to 150 km/h (approx.

93 mph); and City Emergency Braking, which operates at up The all-new Volkswagen Golf has been unveiled in Berlin, 36 years after the original model redefined the small family car.

Despite offering more room for passengers and more advanced technological features than ever before, new production techniques contribute to the Mk VII Golf being up to 100 kg lighter than the car it replaces, helping to make it up to 23 percent more efficient than before. On top of this, the new Golf is also safer than ever, thanks not just to a stronger body structure (which is also 23 kg lighter) but also to a raft of standard and optional passive and active safety systems.

The new Golf is built on the so-called MQB (Modularer Querbaukasten) platform or Modular Transverse Matrix.

This standardises many vehicle component parameters across brands and vehicle classes, and allows access to new powertrains and technologies, including innovations in the areas of safety and infotainment, which until now were reserved for vehicles in higher segments.

At 4,255 mm long, the new

Golf is 56 mm longer than its predecessor, with a 59 mm longer wheelbase of 2,637 mm.

The front wheels are 43 mm further forward, helping to generate more interior space, while the Golf is also 13 mm wider, at 1,799 mm, and 28 mm lower, at 1,452 mm. This helps to create a 10 percent improvement in the drag coefficient, which is now 0.27 Cd. Though the new car’s dimensions are larger, its overall design is unmistakeably that of a Golf, thanks to a design DNA that has evolved through the decades. Rear legroom is improved by 15 mm, and the front seats have been moved 20 mm further back, benefitting taller drivers. Front shoulder room is improved by 31 mm to 1,420 mm (at the rear it is 30 mm wider) and elbow room by 22 mm to 1,469 mm (20 mm wider at the rear). There is more room for luggage, too: the boot is 30 litres larger, at 380 litres, with a low 685 mm sill. All Golf models now have touchscreen systems as standard, starting with a 5.8-inch colour display system, and rising to the rangetopping satellite navigation system with eight-inch colour

16 New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012

display. It operates with finger gestures that will be familiar to smartphone users. Features include DAB digital radio, auxiliary inputs (including USB), Bluetooth telephone preparation and access to vehicle trip information.

Between the front seats, space is increased by virtue of the new electronic parking brake with auto-hold feature.

And for the first time in a Volkswagen, the compartment under the centre armrest optionally includes a universal phone holder with inductive aerial, which not only increases the signal strength of a phone placed in it, but also reduces the drain on the

to 30 km/h (approx. 19 mph), and can reduce or prevent the chance of accidents occurring.

Powering the Golf is a new range of petrol and diesel engines, all of which incorporate Stop/Start and battery regeneration systems.

At launch, the petrol engines are a 1.2-litre TSI 63kW unit returning 4.9 L/100 km), and a 1.4-litre TSI 105kW unit with Active Cylinder Technology, which can deactivate two of the cylinders, and achieves up to 4.8 L/100 km). The launch diesel engines are a 1.6-litre unit with 78kW, which returns 3.8 L/100 km and a 2-litre 112kW unit which returns 4.1 L100 km.

NEWS

Coke wins fleet safety award Each year in NZ 100 people die and 200,000 workers are injured in workplace related incidents. George Adams, Coca Cola Amatil NZ Ltd’s managing director, joined 100 other business leaders in a pledge to take personal responsibility for making health and safety a vital part of the business.

This “Zero Harm” strategy was adopted

by CCANZ in 2010 and a two year plan developed and implemented to bring about real change in the safety outcomes of CCANZ’s fleet.

- A seven-stage process was developed which emphasised the importance of leading by example and accountability.

- Senior management engaged in all aspects of driver training initiatives.

- Smaller teams established across the business to discuss and resolve safety issues at a local level.

- Driver training now occurs prior to employment; periodically during the term of employment and post car incident. CCANZ’s contract drivers must undertake the same training requirements.

- Various methods of communication are used to enforce the safety culture, including branding, videos, an Edrive campaign and the safety mascot, Skivvy.

- Procurement policy has changed to

mandate the purchase of 5 star safety rated vehicles.

- Drivers are held accountable for their behaviour through a policy of monthly vehicle inspection reports and rigorous reporting requirements post incident occurrence which includes a discussion about each incident at a monthly meeting chaired by the MD. The commitment to the Zero Harm culture has resulted in a 31 percent reduction in the incident rate and more than $100K savings in fleet costs since 2010. The cost per incident has also dropped by almost 40 percent.

In addition, there has been a dramatic reduction in lost days due to injuries.

New policies and procedures have been developed which are reviewed on an annual basis and the review is included in discussions at the Zero Harm team meetings at a local level.

The message of Zero Harm was driven home during the Christmas period in 2011 through the launch of “Thinksafe + Drivesafe = Homesafe” message, including parking a wrecked vehicle at the entrance to the Auckland head office.

Senior management are engaged at every stage in this project and continue to their collective dedication to achieving Zero Harm.

Toyota 86 adds fun to rental fleet Avis has announced a new “premium” addition to its rental fleet with the availability of the new Toyota 86. Following on from the addition of the Toyota FJ Cruiser, the company has added a number of the higher-spec GT86 versions of Toyota’s new sports car to its fleet out of Auckland and Christchurch, with cars being available in Wellington later this month.

Stanley Hebden, National Marketing Manager for Avis New Zealand, anticipates demand for the Toyota GT86 will be very high, given pre-sales of the new sports car have exceeded expectations.

“Many car enthusiasts will be eager to take the GT86 for

a spin. As the only car rental company offering this high-end vehicle for rental in New Zealand, we’re once again delivering unforgettable experiences for our customers.”

Hebden says the GT86 will make an otherwise standard trip a driving experience, with the vehicle appealing to men and women alike.

“It’s the perfect vehicle to spice up a girls’ weekend away, make a business trip all the more worthwhile, or simply make the open road a driving thrill.”

The award was presented on September 13 at the Annual Gala Dinner at Zinc Federation Square, Melbourne with over 100 guests in attendance. The award was supported by O’Brien and endorsed by Ancap. For more information please contact the AfMA Office on the details below.

Strongest August for new vehicle sales since 2007 According to the MTA 8,175 new vehicles were sold overall in August, compared to 7,465 in August 2011. This is an increase of 710 units (9 percent), making it the strongest August sales month since 2007. Year to date, overall sales are up by 10,203 units (18 percent).

MTA spokesperson Ian Stronach said “August continued the positive trend we’ve been seeing all year. It’s always pleasing to see both passenger and commercial vehicle sales strengthening in tandem. That’s a sign that there is real growth in both confidence and sales. Dealers were cautious about prospects for August after such a strong run earlier in the year, but the market seems to be maintaining good momentum.”

New car sales of 5,969 units were ahead by 192 units (3 percent) compared to the same month last year, making 2012 the strongest August sales month for five years. Year to date, new car sales are ahead of 2011 by 8,375 units (20 percent).

New commercial vehicle sales of 2,216 units were ahead by 518 units (30 percent) compared to August 2011, making 2012 the strongest August for commercial vehicle sales in seven years. Year to date, overall new commercial sales are ahead of 2011 by 1,828 units (13 percent).

Toyota maintains its stranglehold on the passenger car market with a 15 percent share (869 units), followed by Ford (712 units) and Holden (626 units). However, the Ford Focus was the single top-selling passenger car model at 282 units, followed by the Toyota Corolla (262 units) and Holden Captiva (238 units).

Toyota again came out on top in the commercial vehicle market with a 22 percent slice (584 units), followed by Ford (346 units) and Holden (253 units).

The top-selling individual models in the commercial segment were the Toyota Hilux (341 units), Ford Ranger (283 units) and Toyota Hiace (231 units).

New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012 17

NewMODELS

MG is still British The first new MG to appear on these shores in quite a long time comes, as to be expected, by way of China. But that doesn’t mean it is a Chinese car, says Damien O’Carroll.

How does that work, then?

Well, according to Kerry Cheyne, operations manager for MG’s local distributors, British Motor Distributors, it has a lot to do with the fact that MG Motor has its head office in the UK, along with its R and D centre, and also assembles its UK product there.

The fact that it is owned

by Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation (SAIC) and our cars are sourced from a Chinese factory doesn’t mean it’s a Chinese car. After all, we still consider Holden to be Australian, despite the fact that it is owned by an American company and produces the vast majority of its cars in Korea!

When it goes on sale in October, the MG6 will

be available in two body styles, sedan (known as the Magnette in MG-speak) and hatch (called the GT), three levels of trim – S, SE and TSE – and absolutely no choice of engine or transmission.

The 118kW/215Nm 1.8-litre 4-cylinder petrol hooked up to a 5-speed manual is all you get for now. A diesel engine and dual clutch transmission will become available shortly, as will an all-new SAIC/General Motors-developed range of petrol engines in coming years.

Spec levels are very high, with the entry S model coming with 17-inch alloys, a sunroof and a CD/MP3/AUX/USB stereo as standard, while the SE adds rear parking sensors, cruise control, tyre pressure

18 New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012

monitoring, a mid-spec stereo that adds a coluor screen and a leather steering wheel with multifunction controls.

The top-spec TSE also gets a reversing camera, leather seats (electric and heated in the front), dual-zone climate control, automatic headlights, rain sensing wipers, a chilled centre console, and a high-spec stereo that adds Bluetooth phone connectivity.

The result is a genuinely likeable car, albeit one that does come across as slightly dated in some regards. It was, after all, designed back before SAIC got its hands on MG, but as a smaller entrant in the midsize segment (it’s more Suzuki Kizashi-sized rather than Ford Mondeo-sized), the MG6 is a decent little contender.

Although prices haven’t officially been announced yet, Cheyne assures us that the S will start at “under $30,000”, while the top-spec TSE will clock in at no more than $35,000. Which makes the MG6 rather good value for money.

Despite the engine being an update of the venerable (old) K series engine that first appeared back in 1988, it is smooth, and provides enough power to pull the MG6 along at a decent rate. According to the big badge on the back there is a turbo in there somewhere, but you really don’t feel the forced induction.

Still, it makes for decent enough progress, and it has a nice linear power delivery, although the shift quality of the 5-speed manual is

awful. Roll on the dual clutch transmission.

Handling is rather surprisingly good , with a nice ride complimented by a willingness to be thrown into a corner with vigour.

Not so good things? Some of the plastics (particularly on the bottom half of the dash and the centre console) are pretty nasty, the key rattles violently in its slot in the dash under hard acceleration, and there is an odd plasticky smell that Chinese-produced cars seem to possess.

In all though, the MG6 is not a bad start for the resurgence of the brand here. You could certainly do a lot worse if you are after a smaller mid-sized car, particularly given that it will come at a small car price.

Hyundai i30 much improved Hyundai has come out with a facelifted version of the i20 small car which is better looking, better fitted-out, and a whole lot more comfortable. John Oxley reports It didn’t take long to realise that a lot of work has gone into this latest version of the i20. It’s not just the altered sheet metal front and rear – new bumper, grille, headlamps, bonnet, grille, rear bumper, rear lights – to give it Hyundai’s latest “Fluid Sculpture” look.

It’s a whole lot of work to the suspension, to sound deadening, and even to the engine (with better fuel economy on both automatic and manual models).

If I didn’t know better, I’d think it was a whole new car, but that’s still at the design stages and we won’t see it for a while yet.

But that’s no great problem, because the new i20 is very nice, thank you.

More importantly, it’s being launched without a cent increase over the prices of the outgoing models, despite that there’s a lot more equipment in both trim level vehicles, GL and GLS. And with only $1,000 between GL auto and GLS auto, the differences in spec far outweigh the price variance, making the GLS the bargain of the range.

We drove both manual and

automatic versions on a diverse route on both motorway and country roads – some of them very tight and twisting – and we were very impressed with the way the little car grips, the way it handles, and the way it does it without road, tyre noise, or engine roar impinging.

From a purist driver’s viewpoint the 6-speed manual is the better of the two as it allows instant power out of corners, faster pullaway and overtaking, generally more driver control.

The automatic is still, unfortunately, Hyundai’s ancient 4-speeder, but with a modicum of manual control in that you can select first, second and third (by switching off the overdrive via a button on the gearstick) as well as full auto.

It’s a compromise, but it does make for better control in hard cornering. For most people this won’t be a problem, though, and at least the gear change is smooth. Hyundai expects most people to buy the auto.

More of a problem for some, though, will be the electric power steering, which we found to be imprecise and uncertain – lumpy would be a way to describe it. The

car segment.

In the GL we see 14-inch steel wheels with 175/70 R14 tyres, ABS braking with electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), brake assist, vehicle stability management (VSM), electronic stability control (ESC), six airbags, tilt and telescopic adjustable steering column, remote central locking, UV tinted glass, glovebox cooling , and Bluetooth handsfree phone system.

In addition there are electric folding heated outside mirrors with inset indicators, 60/40 split rear seat, rear fog lights, AM/FM stereo, in-dash MP3 compatible CD player sound system with Bluetooth audio streaming, USB with auxiliary iPod input, four-speaker sound system, and steering wheel mounted controls.

There’s also manual airconditioning, a trip computer and a centre console dash storage compartment with lid.

Boot capacity is 295 litres and anti-skid software in the i30’s there’s a full size spare. electronic stability system is In addition the GLS gets programmed to weight the 15-inch alloy wheels with steering to indicate which 185/60 R15 tyres, front fog way the driver should turn lights, climate control aircon, the wheel in an emergency. six-speaker sound system, My take is that it needs some cruise control and speed limiter refinement or adjustment. with steering wheel controls, The engine though, is still reversing sensors, LED daytime a little 1.4-litre gem. Power running lights, automatic and torque remain the same dusk sensing headlights, and a at 73.5kW/136Nm, but fuel leather-rimmed steering wheel. economy has been improved Warranty 3-year/100,000km dramatically – by eight with 3-year roadside assistance. percent on the automatic to 5.9L/100km, and 13 percent on the manual, to give Models/prices 5.3L/100km.

And as mentioned, GL manual $25,490, automatic $25,990 both cars come loaded with standard kit, some GLS manual $25,990, automatic $26,990 of this rare in this light New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012 19

NewMODELS

Toyota gets all sporty with 86 Toyota has launched its much-awaited 86 model. And Damien O’Carroll is glad!

At its most basic, the new Toyota 86 revives the legendary Corolla AE86 – the last of the RWD Corollas and a Japanese performance icon – in the sense that it is small, cheap and puts its power through the rear wheels.

Toyota also makes the claim that it harks back to two other previous RWD coupes in its history: the gorgeous 1967 2000GT in terms of styling, and the diminutive Sports 800 in terms of engines. Both the Sports 800 and 86 have horizontally opposed boxer engines – the 800 a 791cc two-cylinder and the 86 a 1,998cc four.

However, the latter is more due to the fact that the 86 was a collaboration between Toyota and Subaru (which will sell its own version of the car, called the BRZ) than any real nod to history.

Available in two versions – the base 86 and the upper spec GT86 – both models come with a 2-litre boxer engine that puts out 147kW of power at 7,000rpm and 205Nm of torque at 6,400rpm, and are available with a choice of either 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.

The 86 comes standard with a torque-sensing limited slip differential on the manual

transmission cars only, plus seven airbags, 16-inch alloy wheels, power mirrors, cruise control, a stereo with Bluetooth phone connectivity and audio streaming, as well as an auxiliary input and iPod compatibility, sports seats and manual air conditioning.

The GT86 adds the LSD to the automatic, steering wheel mounted paddles for the automatic, 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic xenon headlights with cleaners and automatic levelling, fog lights, keyless entry and starting, leather and Alcantara heated seats, aluminium sports pedals, dual zone climate aircon and more interior bling.

The GT86 can also be had with an aero package that adds front, rear and side skirts and a MASSIVE wing that is worryingly reminiscent of the one on the last generation Celica.

Either the 86 or GT86 can be transformed into a TRD Special Edition simply by throwing more money at it. The TRD 86 is initially limited to just 20 units and will be custombuilt by Toyota engineers at the company’s Thames Vehicle Operations Centre, which has become the official home of

20 New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012

of it. The turn-in is razor sharp, with a remarkable responsiveness from the electrically-assisted power steering – which has remarkable feel, especially when the pace increases – and you are never in any doubt what the front is doing.

The rear end is wonderfully playful and thoroughly adjustable through a corner, regardless of speed.

Admittedly, the rear seats are a joke and the boot isn’t far behind in the humor stakes.

Both are tiny and utterly impractical. The big wing of the aero package is just ridiculouslooking and adds an equally ridiculous amount of weight to the boot lid.

While it may be easy to point out the engine’s relatively meagre 147kW/205Nm power

output as a criticism, it really 86 customisation. doesn’t matter in the grand The TRD Special Edition gains scheme of things. The 86 may a special TRD (Toyota Racing not have a lot of power, but Developments) front spoiler, it does have just the right side skirts, rear lower bumper, amount of power. a lip spoiler, 18-inch forged In its purest form the 86 is aluminum alloy wheels, a sports simply fun. Buying the higher air filter, a high-response spec 86 adds more bling and muffler with a four-tip exhaust equipment, which is all very and a Brembo brake package. nice, but not necessary. The 86 On the road, the 86 is a is fun, regardless spec level or remarkably civilised cruiser price. Pure, simple, remarkably with a surprisingly compliant affordable fun. ride. There are no grumpy sports car histrionics here and the 86 feels as practical and easy to live with on Models/prices a daily commuting basis as any two-door coupe 86 manual $41,986, auto $42,986 could.

GT86 manual $46,986, auto $47,986 Chuck it into a corner TRD 86 manual $63,486, auto $64,486 and it will simply do TRD GT86 manual $68,486, auto $69,486 exactly what you ask

lcv review

Light commercials lead way to more growth

Ford Ranger - sales topper

Another year of sustained sales in the light commercial segment bodes well for even more growth in the economy, with 13 percent more commercials sold YTD than the same period last year, and the strongest August in seven years. John Oxley reports.

Last year I talked about 2012 becoming the Year of the Ute, and it’s certainly panned out that way, although the Thailand floods and the associated damage to factories delayed some model introductions, or limited stock, at a time when market demand was growing.

This was a big problem for Holden in particular, for dealers were left with little or no supplies of the run-out Colorado, while the launch of the new model was delayed until July.

The floods also slowed down sales of market-leader Toyota and its mildly facelifted Hilux, while the much-lauded Ford Ranger and Mazda BT50 had to drag through their important launch period with stock short-falls.

Things quickly changed when vehicles DID become available, however, and since then the Ranger in particular has been high on the sales charts, even totally topping the overall ratings. By August the Hilux had

22 New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012

regained traction, but the Ranger was still second in the commercial sales tally.

Meanwhile, the new Holden Colorado got off to a good start in its first month of sales, ending up fourth in the LCV table, but limited supply of some models may have hampered the flow.

Certainly at the launch of the vehicle Holden NZ MD Jeff Murray had made great play on high interest following a pre-launch road show, so we may still see the new truck starting to pull up trees soon.

The all-new Colorado is significantly larger than the outgoing model, and as we outlined last issue, comes with a new Italian-developed 132kW 4-cylinder 2.8-litre diesel, and finally there’s a 6-speed automatic gearbox with manual mode, although manual versions still have to make do with five ratios.

As a result torque output has been

Mazda BT50

lcv review

Foton Tunland L – coming soon limited to 440Nm for the manual, with a more imposing 470Nm for the auto.

A 15-model line-up starts with a DX single cab/chassis in 4x2 version (which is the only model to get a new 2.5-litre 100kW/350Nm engine based on the 2.8) and carries through to luxuriously-equipped 4x4 models at the top of the range.

Historically the Colorado and its predecessor the Rodeo have been mild reskins of Isuzu utes, with the same engines and transmissions, heritage to the days when GM owned a major slice of the Japanese manufacturer.

Now GM has divested of most of its shares in Isuzu, but the two companies still retain some links, and one of them was in the development of the Colorado and D-Max, although most of the design and engineering work was done in Brazil by mainly GM engineers.

However, the D-Max is not built on the same Thailand line as the Colorado, the D-Max instead coming out of Isuzu’s own dedicated truck plant.

So the new Isuzu D-Max now shares most of its bodywork and chassis with the Colorado, but it uses different front-end styling as well as a different powerplant, in this case a complete overhaul of the previous model’s 3-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel motor, with only the basic engine block retained.

This motor incorporates a number of features taken from Isuzu’s class-leading truck engines, including an easy-to-access

oil filter high on the block which can be changed without needing to put the vehicle on a hoist. Maintenance is reduced by the use of a stainless steel timing chain.

State-of-the-art internals have resulted in significant fuel consumption improvements, with the double cab manual rated at 8.3L/100km and the automatic even more efficient at 8.1L/100km. Power is 130kW while torque maxes at 380Nm, with 275Nm available at 1,000rpm – just over tickover.

The line-up, as with the Colorado, includes both 2WD and 4WD models, single and double cab.

The fourth newcomer was SsangYong’s latest version of the Actyon ute. This has had extensive sheet metal refinement in the front end, changing the previous quirky look into a modern and attractive design, while the interior has also come in for some revision, as have key styling elements at the back of the vehicle.

Most important, though, is its new power train, with a latest generation common rail 2-litre diesel that produces more power and a surprising amount of torque in a very flat plateau. It’s linked to an Australian-designed 6-speed automatic gearbox Meanwhile, Volkswagen finally unveiled its long-awaited automatic version of the Amarok. The Amarok was launched in early 2012, but laboured along with only one model available, a 4WD Double Cab, in Highline trim and manual only, and limited stock.

This was bolstered later in the year by a rear-wheel drive double cab, but in a

market that’s beginning to be dominated by automatic utes, the lack of a self-shifting Amarok seriously stifled the big ute’s potential – as did the absence of a single cab or cab/chassis versions.

However, at the beginning of August the automatic, plus single cabs, finally hit the streets.

Currently the automatic Amarok is only available in top-of-the-range Double Cab Highline 4WD trim, although more versions are expected to follow. But it’s a high luxury specification level, including climate control aircon, power windows and mirrors, cruise control, and Bluetooth.

But in a massive slide away from convention, Volkswagen has chosen to use a single 8-speed gearbox in its 4WD auto models, with no transfer case to give low ratios, although it IS full-time 4WD. However, a Torsen (torque sensing) diff automatically apportions drive between front and rear axles as required, while VW says the torque multiplication of the torque converter in the auto ‘gearbox compensates for the lack of a really low ratio.

VW also launched its latest twin turbo version of the 2-litre TDI engine, lifting power to 132kW and 420Nm of torque, and claims overall consumption of 8.3L/100km and CO2 emissions of 219 g/km for the new automatic.

Then there’s the Super Single Cab, which offers a rear-wheel-drive 90kW/340Nm 2-litre TDI model or the 4Motion 4WD with the 120kW/400Nm 2-litre twin turbo TDI engine, linked to a 6-speed manual gearbox.

New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012 23

lcv review

Great Wall V200 – getting better It features a wellside that has been extended to 2,205mm within the same overall vehicle length and wheelbase as the four-door double cab.

And the same high level of safety equipment carries down from the current Amarok model line-up.

Another new automatic launched during the year was the Nissan Navara STX 550, (D40) fitted with a beautiful 3-litre V6 turbo-diesel sourced from Nissan’s partner Renault, and developing no less than 170kW of power and a very lusty 550Nm of torque – hence the nomenclature!

This is linked to a 7-speed automatic gearbox, and the low range transfer case from the lower-priced 4-cylinder STX 450 is carried over.

This makes the Nissan far and away

the leader when it comes to power and performance, and, again, it has a high specification level.

The first of the “big” utes, the Navara still has a lot going for it, with that lusty engine giving smooth and convincing power throughout the rev range.

Interestingly, when we first mooted this model to Nissan NZ MD John Manley a couple of years ago, there were fears it would come in at too high a price to be competitive. However, this has not proven to be the case, and the STX 550 stays within the $60-$63,000 spread of the other big top-end utes.

Nissan has also extended the breadth of the D40 Navara range with the introduction of eight RX badged “working utes”. The Navara RX is available as a King Cab chassis,

Mitsubishi Triton - still strong 24 New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012

King Cab wellside, and Double Cab. Both 2WD (2.5-litre, 106kW/356Nm) and 4WD (2.5-litre, 126kW/403Nm) models are offered, with either a 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic.

Although designed for hard work, with vinyl floor coverings, hard-wearing seat covers, and steel wheels, there are still such features as air conditioning, cruise control, power windows, keyless entry and a 4-speaker sound system, as well as a rear limited slip differential, ABS brakes and an electronic stability programme.

Other models in the ST and STX ranges continue as before, as does the smaller D22 Navara, available as either a single cab chassis or double cab with a choice of 2WD and 4WD, all with manual gearbox.

Another newcomer at the beginning of the year (remember, I DID say it was the Year of the Ute!) was the latest version of SsangYong’s Actyon Sport.

This has had extensive sheet metal refinement in the front end, changing the previous quirky look into a modern and attractive design, while the interior has also come in for some revision, as have key styling elements at the back of the vehicle.

Most important, though, is its new power train, with a latest generation common rail 2-litre diesel that produces more power (114kW) and a surprising amount of torque (360Nm) in a very flat plateau. It’s linked to an Australian-designed 6-speed automatic gearbox, or a 6-speed manual.

Both 2WD and 4WD versions are available,

lcv review

Toyota Hilux – market leader again all double cab.

And just in time for Fieldays, SsangYong also launched a “tradie” version of the Actyon, the WorkMate, with fewer features and keener pricing, without cutting back on the vehicle’s core values and features, such as aircon, audio system, central locking and power windows and mirrors. This model is only available in 4WD. The SsangYong utes are notable for their smaller, nimbler, size, and in a market where big is not always better, stand out as a strong choice where manoeuvrability may be a key operating benefit.

Another “smaller” ute range to come in for a high degree of restyling is the Great Wall V-series, with, again, extensive front end sheet metalwork to give the vehicle a smarter and more modern appearance in both single cab (with cab/chassis) and double cab versions.

At the same time the line-up has been extended to include a diesel version to augment the 2.4-litre V240 (100km/200Nm) petrol model which was the company’s only power offering until then.

Thus we see the V200 now entering the fray, the 2-litre turbo-diesel giving a muchneeded torque boost, with 310Nm, plus 105kW of power.

The 4x4 models now have 6-speed manual gearboxes, while 4x2 versions get a 5-speed manual.

All the models have a great feature list, with audio and electric windows (front) and mirrors, especially at their low prices, while

quality has shown a definite improvement over the earlier versions.

The vehicles are being imported by Ateco, and they are backed by solid warranties that reduce the risk associated with early adoption of low-cost Chinese products.

While we’re talking Chinese, last year I mentioned there were strong possibilities of more utes from the world’s fastest-growing automotive powerhouse, and only this week (as I write) there were advertisements in online trade publications seeking dealers for the Foton Tunland L, a one-tonner based on a previous generation Colorado/Rodeo, but with a massive chromed grille.

It uses interesting technology, with 2.8-litre (120kW/360Nm) Cummins turbodiesel engines linked to ZF gearboxes, and has a fair amount of standard kit.

Early days yet, but it seems the Spencer family is putting another toe in the water to supplement its interests in Hyundai and Isuzu. We hear plans are afoot to launch the vehicle at the end of next year.

So what else lives in the land of utes?

As I mentioned, at the end of 2011 Toyota announced an upgraded Hilux, with the top-line 4x4 SR5 models getting ESP stability programme as well as a new grille, various trim options, and more airbags, plus Bluetooth connectivity. Importantly, the Hilux also gained traction control as part of the stability programme.

However, it was not a lot for a vehicle that’s been on the market in its current form (with relatively minor changes) since 2005,

and it was clear Toyota was going to have to throw a lot of marketing effort into keeping its head high.

The Thai floods didn’t help, and neither did the fact that its engine is, should we say, venerable, 3-litre turbo-diesel producing only 126kW of power and 343Nm of torque, while the auto ‘gearbox is a 4-speeder in a segment where everybody else has added in a lot more cogs – as mentioned, in the case of the Amarok, double the Hilux’s!

On the plus side, Toyota has such a strong reputation, and such strong representation, in New Zealand, that it was just a matter of time before the Hilux came bouncing back, as I mentioned at the beginning of this article.

However, all that left the field wide open for the Ford Ranger to romp away, and it’s certainly taken a lion’s share of this year’s ute market. With stylish and modern looks, a lusty 3.2-litre 147kW/470Nm 5-cylinder turbo-diesel linked to either manual or auto ‘gearboxes with 6-speeds, and low ratio gearboxes in the top-end double cab 4WD versions, it’s been a winner.

Only one of each 2WD and 4WD single cab/chassis version is available, in manual, to special order, but there’s a strong phalanx of supercab and double cab models, the former retaining the rear-opening rear doors of the previous model, in both 2WD and 4WD. Strong points of the 4WD models include very low gearing coupled with long-legged high gears, and advanced features such as stability control (with and hill descent

New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012 25

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The new Isuzu D-Max systems. The feature list is high, especially on the top-end models.

Similarly with the Mazda BT-50. It’s styling might not be as masculine as the Ford’s, but it’s also rich on features and shares the same basic body and drivetrain.

A plus factor over the Ford is that a locking rear diff comes as standard in the top model.

One of the earliest adopters of the new vehicle was Fulton Hogan.

In our 4WD six-way giant ute test in the June issue it was interesting to note that there were only two and a half points separating the Range and the Mazda at the top of the score charts – hardly discernible considering the winner scored 445 in total!

Mitsubishi last made revisions to the Triton more two years ago, with the top-end GLS version equipped version getting the Superselect 4WD system from the Pajero.

All models have a 2.5-litre motor mated to either a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic, with the engine producing 133kW, with 343Nm of torque in the auto, 407Nm in the 5-speed manual.

Interestingly, although the Triton is ostensibly a “small” ute when compared to the new big ‘uns, the GLS Sport’s overall length of 5,385mm makes it the longest on the market, beating the Ford by 34mm – although it is the narrowest!

The range starts with 2WD single cab/ chassis models aimed at the “working ute” market, with similar versions in 4WD, and there are both 2WD and 4WD double cab models in various trim levels, with the top-

26 New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012

end GLS Sport versions luxuriously equipped.

The ute segment dominates the LCV market, with more than 10,000 sold YTD, but there’s growing traction in the 2,5013,500kg van sector.

Once more Toyota dominates, with the Hiace, and it’s by far the driver for the whole segment, taking almost 46 percent of sales.

Two versions are available – ZL and the long wheelbase ZX – and two engines, a 2.7-litre petrol (111kW/241Nm – ZL only) and a 3-litre turbo-diesel (100kw/300Nm), with either 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmissions.

The Hiace was last year upgraded to achieve four stars in Ancap safety testing, and a reversing camera is fitted to all models, as well as dual airbags, electric windows, and a steering column pad.

The 3.3-inch reversing camera display is located within a new electrochromatic auto dimming inside rearview mirror. All Hiace models have ABS with Brake Assist.

However, the big news in the segment is the recent showing of a new Transit range, with the Transit Custom slotting below the current range’s large vans and into the one-ton class.

It boasts a bold new design that’s more car-like than any previous Ford van in this sector and shares the same kinetic design as Ford passenger cars, including a big trapezoidal grille and bold wheel arches, while inside there are high tech features including voice-activated connectivity, and Bluetooth, a rear-view camera, lane-keeping

alert and a driver alert system that detects drowsiness and signals a wake-up warning.

There are front, side and curtain airbags on offer, plus a Ford Focus-style ESP stability control system with torque vectoring vontrol – similar to the system on a Porsche 911 Turbo!

The 2.2-litre TDCi engine will be offered in 75kW, 93kW and 116kW, and only requires servicing every 48,000km. It will come in two wheelbase lengths. This model is already on sale in Europe, and is expected here soon.

Ford also showed brand-new versions of the bigger Transit models, offering front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, will also be powered by the latest 2.2-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel. This is expected here next year.

Currently, the Transit is the second bestseller in the van segment in New Zealand, with a 10 percent share. Four distinct van models are offered, plus two cab/ chassis versions, and all are powered by the same 2.2-litre four cylinder turbo-diesel, producing 74kW/285Nm in the SWB version, and 114kw/385Nm in the LWB, Jumbo 350, and Jumbo 460 models.

High and low roof versions are available, according to the model.

A 6-speed manual transmission, plus fuelsaving stop-start technology, is available in all models.

In terms of safety, all Transits get the latest kit, with an electronic stability system which includes traction control and hill start assistance, and there are dual front and side

lcv review

The next Ford Transit airbags plus ABS brakes with Brake Assist and electronic brakeforce distribution.

Hyundai was sitting on second place in the segment last year with its H1 van, but this has now been replaced by the iLoad, and YTD figures from the MIA indicate an overall share of 7.7 percent for this latest model.

There’s only one model of iLoad van, fitted with a 2.5-litre turbo-diesel (100kW/343Nm) driving through a 6-speed manual gearbox.

This 5m long van has dual sliding side doors and a fully opening rear and there are three rear reversing sensors. Cargo capacity is 4,426 litres.

On the safety front the iLoad has an electronic stability system with traction control, as well as ABS and dual airbags, and gets a four-star Ancap rating.

The venerable Mitsubishi L300 competes in both below 2,500 GVM and in the over 2,500 GVM segment, and is currently sitting in third place YTD in the latter with

8.9 percent share.

It offers the choice of short or long wheelbase and a tight turning circle, plus doors on either side with the LWB version.

Engine is a 2.4-litre 16-vale petrol (97kW/192Nm) with a 5-speed manual gearbox. Cargo capacity on the SWB is 4,285 litres while the LWB offers 5,520 litres.

Volkswagen has two vans in this segment, the Transporter and the larger Crafter.

The Transporter comes in short and long wheelbase, with the option of high roof versions. The former has a load volume of either 5.8 cu m or 6.7cu m, depending on roof height, while the LWB offers 6.7 cu m or 9.3 cu m.

There are three engine options, all 2-litre TDI turbo-diesels, producing 75kW/250Nm, 103kW/340Nm and 132kW/400Nm, and driving through 5-speed manual (250Nm), or 6-speed manual or 7-speed double clutch automatic. There are also 4WD 4Motion

versions in manual or automatic.

Dual airbags, electronic stability programme with brake Assist and traction control, and ABS brakes are all standard.

The vans are well-specced, with air conditioning standard, and there are sliding doors each side.

The Crafter van comes in three weight categories - 3.0,3.5 and 5.0t GVW, and three wheelbases - 3,250mm, 3,665mm and 4,325 mm, and is available with normal, high and super-high roofs.

There are eight different load compartment sizes with seven different capacities, ranging from 7.5 cu m to 17 cu m.

The same 2-litre TDI engines as in the Transporter are specified, but in either 80kW/300Nm in the short and medium wheelbase, or 100kW/340Nm in the LWB versions. A 120kW/400Nm twin turbo version can be optioned in all but the SWB. Safety kit mirrors that in the Transporter.

The Volkswagen Amarok Ute is here. Test drive it now.

Relax while working…

The much-anticipated Amarok has arrived. And true to its badge, it sets the standard in its class.

Available in a range of reliable, hi-performance TDI Diesel engines, including the Twin Turbo TDI which thumps out an impressive 400Nms of torque from 1,500 rpm, making towing a cinch.

Its highly fuel-efficient engine technology, combined with an 80-litre fuel tank means you can go up to 1,000 kms# between fuel stops. With the roomiest cabin in the market, there’s more than enough space for the family, or for the boys. Along with impressive performance, the Amarok Double Cab Highline is the first Double Cab 4WD ute in the New Zealand market to receive a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. It also boasts the largest load area, with a payload capacity of up to 1.15 tonnes - so equipment like quads and dirt bikes can be loaded in and out easily. And its 2.8

NZ’s only dedicated Volkswagen Commercial workshop.

tonne towing capacity means you’ll never have to leave the boat behind. The Amarok is available in either two-wheel drive or 4Motion high/low ratio all-wheel drive variants, with a range of different features to suit your lifestyle. We could go on. But talking about it will never compare to driving it. So call us on

to arrange a test drive

.

The new Amarok. Priced from $43,000*

Brendan Flude 09 526 6956 9 Mauranui Avenue, Newmarket VOL2872_URBAN

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A Passion for Fine Automobiles

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0800 AMAROK

Based on a combined fuel consumption of 7.3litres/100kms in an 80 litre fuel tank. * Excludes on-road costs.

New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012 27

lcv review

The Ford Transit Custom Like Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz offers two sizes of vehicle in this segment, with the smaller, the Vito van, coming in three body lengths – SWB, LWB, Compact Long, and Extra Long.

There are dual sliding side doors, and load volumes range from 4.65 cu m to 6.5 cu m, with payloads up to 1,160kg.

There’s a choice of four Euro 5 CDI diesel engines. Engine power increases with the length of the vehicle. The three smaller models each use a 2.4-litre turbodiesel (70kW/250Nm, 100kW/310Nm, 120kW/360Nm) while the largest model gets a V6 3-litre (165kW/440Nm).

Features include ESP, dual airbags, ABS, air conditioning and Bluetooth.

The larger Sprinter comes in three wheelbase variations, and four body lengths – ranging from 3,250mm to 7,345mm. It’s also available with three different roof heights.

Load capacity starts at 7.5 cu m for the SWB with standard roof to 17 cu m for the extra long wheelbase with super-high roof.

There are two rear door height options.

Engines are all Euro 5 2.1-litre turbodiesels ranging in power from 70kW/250Nm to 120kW/360Nm, with 140kW/440Nm V6 3-litre units on the largest vehicles.

There’s a new Eco 6-speed manual transmission, with a stop-start system on the 4-cylinder models. Automatic

28 New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012

transmission is optional. Safety kit includes ESP with Brake Assist and traction control, as well as ABS brakes plus dual front, thorax and window airbags.

Fiat’s main entrant in this van segment is the Ducato, currently taking one percent of the market.

The Ducato has gained new engines for 2012, both of which meet Euro 5 emissions standards, and there are two versions available, producing 96kW/320Nm and 109kW/350Nm. There’s a choice of 6-speed manual or 6-speed automated manual gearboxes The two variants for New Zealand are an LWD high roof Ducato that combines 13 cu m interior with a GVM of 3,500 kg, while the extended body version takes the interior volume up to 15 cubic metres and a GVM to match of 4,000 kg.

Safety kit includes dual front airbags and with electronic brakeforce distribution.

Nissan has but one player in this segment, the Urvan, and it comes in only one variant, fitted with a 3-litre (96kW/265Nm) turbodiesel, with 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic. It’s fitted with sliding doors each side, and cargo volume is 5.7 cu m.

Dual airbags and ABS brakes are standard, as are air conditioning and a sound system.

Last but not least, Kia’s K2500 offers three van options – a dry van, walk-through

van, and a refrigerator unit.

All feature a separate chassis, and are powered by a 2.5-litre turbo-diesel (96kW/255Nm) coupled to a 6-speed manual gearbox. ABS brakes are standard.

The walk-though van has the largest cargo capacity, at 8.9 cu m, with the dry van at 7.9 cu m and the refrigerator version 6.9 cu m.

Not strictly in this class, as its GVM starts at 3.5-tons, the Iveco Daily van has full-chassis, truck-like construction and rear-wheel drive. Capacity ranges from 8.3 cu m to 17.2 cu m and a choice of three GVM ratings from 3.5 to 6.5 tons. There are three wheelbases, three body lengths and three roof heights.

Engines are 2.3-litres (86kW/240Nm or 101kW/320Nm) or 3-litres (109kW/350Nm).

Volkswagen Crafter

WORKHORSE ECO

Better Colorado Robert Barry spends a week with the latest Holden Colorado 4x2 LT double cab ute and finds it significantly improved on the previous generation.

The all-new 4x2 Colorado is certainly a step up in size, design and overall execution from the previous generation.

It’s grown considerably over the last model.

It’s 352mm longer at 5,347mm overall, the wheelbase has frown 46mm to 3,096mm, and the tray has grown 71mm to 1,484mm, with 1,122mm of width between the wheel arches that will easily accommodate a Euro pallet.

Hopping up into the cabin of the LT, you find the cloth upholstery and matching door trim as well as the grey coloured plastics add a pleasant ambience to this working truck.

The Colorado’s commercial origins are evidenced by the hard-to-the-touch dashboard plastics, but they should prove durable in the long run. We liked the easily accessible cup holders, and there’s a reasonable amount of storage cubbies for such a working vehicle.

The Colorado’s steering wheel is only adjustable for rake, but with the driver’s seat being height adjustable most people should be able to get comfortably seated behind the wheel. Two passengers will also fit comfortably in the rear seats, and there’s a reasonable amount of head and leg room in the rear cabin for taller occupants.

The rear seat squabs fold up, revealing a couple of storage lockers underneath and also allow large items of cargo or toolkits to be loaded into the rear cabin.

Our test vehicle was also fitted with fitted accessory rubber mats and we would

recommend these to protect the carpet from becoming too wet and grubby during the winter months.

All Colorado models get front and curtain airbags, ESC, ABS and EBD, Bluetooth connectivity, iPod connectivity, miniUSB and AUX input, remote keyless entry as well as an alarm and immobiliser system.

We spent a week with the mid-level LT model which comes with 16-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, leather wrapped steering wheel, fog lamps, steering wheel controls for the audio, and a lidded centre console.

Initially I was a little disappointed with the noise level of the 132kW/440Nm engine. It’s a VM Motori-sourced 2.8-litre turbodiesel, and while it’s got plenty of low-down grunt, and easily launches the Colorado away from the traffic lights and into the traffic flow, the accompanying noise under hard acceleration is loud at times. That said, once on the motorway or open road, it is considerably quieter and composed when cruising.

The gear change of the 5-speed manual transmission is much improved, a lot more precise than the old long-throw manual unit in

the previous model, which was akin to stirring porridge on occasion – you were never quite sure if you had fully selected the right gear.

Uniquely, the automatic version of the 4x2 version Colorado LTZ enjoys a 6-speed gearbox and its torque output is lifted to 470Nm. On urban tarmac the new Colorado rides a great deal better than the previous model.

There’s still a bit of jiggle through the cabin over lumps and bumps as one would expect from a light commercial which is sprung for load carrying, but at least the steering is communicative and the Holden turns in through a dry corner with composure.

Don’t, however, mash the throttle down suddenly when cornering on a wet road, because the combination of the powerful engine and the Colorado’s leaf-sprung rear axle doesn’t like this, and the traction control and ESC system will have to work overtime to follow your intended line.

Towing capacity has been increased from 3 tons to 3.5 tons, which makes the Colorado the new class leader in the double cab towing segment, narrowly eclipsing the Ford and Mazda twins.

In summary the much improved Colorado Ute has better dynamics than before, more tow capacity, and more power than the market leading Toyota Hilux, but whether it will take over as sales champion remains to be seen.

Specifications:

Body type Drive Engine type Engine capacity Max power Max torque Fuel consumption C02 emission 0 to 100km/h Airbags ESP Air conditioning Satellite navigation Wheel type Spare tyre Price

Double cab Rear-wheel-drive Inline four-cylinder 2,776cc 132kW/3,800 rpm 440Nm/2,000 rpm 7.9L/100km 243g/km N/A 4 Yes Manual No 16-inch Alloy Full size steel $45,900

New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012 29

WORKHORSE

Discrete bruiser Robert Barry enjoys a week with the powerfully discrete double cab V6 Navara 550 ST-X They are a somewhat conservative bunch at the Nissan Motor Company.

With the exception of producing brilliant performance cars such as the shapely Nissan 370Z, the mighty Porsche-eating Nissan GT-R, and the amazing Le Mans DeltaWing project car, the rest of the Nissan passenger and light commercial range is, to be honest, somewhat pedestrian.

But then my hopes were somewhat raised by the announcement that Nissan was going to shoehorn the excellent Renault-Nissan alliance sourced 3-litre V6 diesel engine and 7-speed gearbox into the double cab Navara ST-X and call it the 550.

It is an awesome combination,

170kW of diesel engine power, 550Nm of torque, a slickshifting automatic transmission, almost more towing capacity than an Aussie tank at 3 tons, and a thrifty consumption of 9.3L/100km.

It’s also by far the quickest double cab 4x4 ute on the market, sprinting from zero to 100km/h in 11.4 seconds.

It’s got more torque than the new 3.2L 5-cylinder turbodiesel Mazda BT-50 and Ford Ranger, and only 20mm less wheelbase than those two recent market entrants.

Even though the Nissan is ageing gracefully, it still has one of the most functional and nicest-looking dashboards in the ute market, and the cloth

upholstered seats are comfortable for long journeys although they do rather lack side support for brisk cornering.

Bluetooth telephony, climate controlled air-conditioning, cup and bottle holders, remote steering wheel controls for the audio and cruise control, as well as a rotary dial for the electronically selectable fourwheel-drive, make life a great deal easier for the driver and occupants.

Entry and exit to and from the rear seats is not quite as good as the Ford’s or Mazda’s, though side steps are fitted to the V6 as standard. Nor is there as much legroom inside for the rear occupants, but on the positive side of the ledger the

rear seat squabs can be flipped up which allows tradesmen to slide large toolboxes and other items into the rear cabin for more secure storage.

In the rear tray Nissan has installed a flexible tie-down system which is one of the best on the market, and we’re surprised other manufacturers haven’t copied or installed similar systems in their new utes.

But there’s one slight problem with this version of the Navara. Apart from the 550 ST-X badge on the rear tailgate and the discrete V6 badge on the lower flanks of the two front doors, it looks just like any other Navara ST-X. On road the Navara ST-X 550 is a pleasant drive with a smooth ride quality, and good handling with the limitations of understeer and body roll that would be expected of a leaf sprung light commercial vehicle.

In summary the Navara V6 ST-X 550 is not only a discrete bruiser, it is a very competent all round ute for an urban tradesman or fleet user who needs a vehicle with all-wheel-drive capability.

Specifications Body type Drive Engine type Engine capacity Max power Max torque Fuel consumption C02 emission 0 to 100km/h Airbags ESP Air conditioning Wheel type Spare tyre Price

Four door utility 4WD V6 turbodiesel 2,991cc 170kW/3,750 rpm 550Nm/1,750 rpm 9.3L/100km 243g/km 11.4secs two Yes Climate control 17 inch alloy Full size $61,890

Get your Nissan fleet from Farmer Autovillage.

Ask for Roger 07 578 6017

116 Hewletts Road, Mt Maunganui, Tauranga City. Tel: 07 578 6017 www.farmerautovillage.co.nz 30 New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012

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ECO WORKHORSE

Back to basics Sometimes less is more, as Robert Barry discovers in the double cab Navara RX 4x4 utility.

Nissan has gone back to basics with the introduction of a Navara RX utility which it says has less specification than the ST and ST-X models, and will better meet the needs of some buyers within the fleet market.

The company says it has extended the breadth of its D40 Navara range with the introduction of the RX specification in both double cab and extended single cab (king cab) models primarily to cater to tradesmen, as well as the horticultural, agricultural and forestry sectors.

“These are working utes intended for people who have heavy and dirty gear which they need to get to job sites and the wide variety of places our primary industries operate in,” says Nissan New Zealand managing director John Manley.

In total there are eight RX models available, as all four variants come with either a 6-speed manual gearbox or a 5-speed automatic transmission.

The rear-wheel-drive Navara RX models have a braked trailer towing capacity of 2,000 kg and the four-wheel-drive models have a capacity of 3,000kg.

Under the bonnet the two rear-wheeldrive models have a106 kW /356 Nm version of Nissan’s 2.5-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine, while the six four-wheel-drive models receive a more powerful version (as tested here) with output of 126 kW/403 Nm. While we discovered that the RX is easy to keep clean with its vinyl floor covering and heavy-duty upholstery, it is not totally deprived of creature comforts. These include

manually controlled air conditioning, as well as cruise control, power windows, keyless entry and a four-speaker sound system.

For on-road safety and handling in poor driving conditions, the Navara RX retains a rear limited slip differential, anti-lock brakes and an electronic safety programme known as vehicle dynamics control in Nissan-speak.

The RX models can be distinguished by their steel wheels – all other Navara D40s have alloys – there is no rear bumper, and the manually-operated door mirrors are wrapped in black plastic housings rather than being painted in the same colour as the body.

“We’ve obviously had to leave out some equipment to make the RX more attractive to farmers, rural and forestry contractors,” says John Manley. “But all the important technical features are still there that a working ute needs to perform to expectations.”

However, we were surprised at the omission of Bluetooth telephony in the RX, which is one feature that even tradesmen and contractors would normally use during the course of their working day. It is an optional dealer fit now, according to Nissan.

We also felt a bit vulnerable not having a rear bumper on a test vehicle – but at this end of the market we are told that many fleets prefer to fit their own custom-made units for

the particular application for which the vehicle is being purchased. We do, however, commend Nissan for fitting a plastic tray liner, and think it should be standard in all wellside pick-ups.

On the road the Navara RX moves along quite swiftly, particularly when the tray is not laden, but the noise from the 2.5-litre turbodiesel engine is significantly more intrusive than from the more expensive ST and ST-X versions, and we can only put that down to the lack of noise insulating

carpet in the cabin.

However gruff it may be, the torquey engine is allied to a 5-speed automatic transmission which does makes life much easier for the driver, particularly when crawling in urban traffic or negotiating a muddy paddock or hilly terrain.

In summary, despite the at-times noisy engine, the Navara RX is a comfortable and practical workhorse which will appeal to the market it was designed for.

Specifications.

Body type Drive Engine type Engine capacity Max power Max torque Fuel consumption C02 emission 0 to 100km/h Airbags ESP Air conditioning Satellite navigation Cargo cover Weight capacity Wheel type Spare tyre

Double cab wellside Utility Part-time 4WD Inline 4-cylinder 2,488cc 126kW/4,000 rpm 403Nm/2,000 rpm 10.5L/100km 274g/km

N/A Two Yes Manual No Optional 871kg 16-inch steel Full size

New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012 31

WORKHORSE

Thanks to the team at West City Kia, we took a K2500 refrigerated truck out for a test run around urban Henderson, and discovered it was car-like in its ride quality, as well as on-road behaviour and handling.

Despite the box body, the K2500 is easily manoeuvred thanks to both a tight turning circle of 5.02 metres and good visibility through the dual function door mirrors.

These have a long and a wide angle lens, making parking and changing lane on a motorway much easier and safer.

Inside the cabin there is more car-like quality. The seats are trimmed in perforated vinyl and are comfortable to sit in, with the

No heavy licence required Kia Motors New Zealand has recently launched a new Euro 5 compliant K2500 light truck with the options of flexible factory-fitted bodies. Robert Barry goes for a quick spin in the refrigerated truck available from West City Kia. Many NZ fleet operators will be familiar with the older Kia K2700 flat deck light truck, but this has been superseded by the new Euro 5 compliant Kia K2500 range of light commercials which now offers a dry body truck, a refrigerated truck, and a walk through truck in addition to the flat deck truck.

The new Kia K2500 truck range is powered by a 96kW/255Nm 2.5-litre common rail turbodiesel engine which delivers fuel economy of 9.9L/100km and C02 emissions of 258g/km. It has a slickshifting 6-speed manual transmission.

All four of the new K2500 trucks can be driven on a class one passenger car licence up to 100km/h, which allows for speedier logistics and delivery than bigger mediumsized trucks that may only travel at 90km/h, and they are also taxed at the lowest road user charge rate and do not require the fitting of a hub-ometer.

Kia Motors also offers a 3-year warranty programme on the K2500 range, with three years of 24/7 roadside assistance in the event of a breakdown.

All K2500 trucks are equipped with a driver airbag as well as ABS brakes with front discs and rear drums with a load sensing proportioning valve, and dual rear wheels. Service intervals are 15,000km or one year, whichever comes first. The front

32 New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012

panel on the nose of the cab easily pops up to allow drivers to check fluid levels and refill as necessary.

The payload figures are also remarkable for a light truck range. The K2500 flat deck takes 1,500kg (with 1.8 cu m of deck space), the K2500 dry box body takes 1,400kg, and the K2500 refrigerated truck with stand-by power will carry 1,200kg of perishable goods.

The dry box body truck and refrigerated truck are available with a 1.5 metre high box body that offers 7.9 cu m of cargo space inside, or a taller option of a1.8 metre high box body which provides 9.5 cu m.

The walk-through truck allows access to the rear through the cab and provides 8.9 cu m of cargo space on a durable compressed wooden floor. The walk-through truck also comes fitted with an aerodynamic air deflector to improve fuel economy and engine performance.

West City Kia dealer principal John Blewett says he had the temperature draw down on the refrigerated truck tested independently by Thermo King, and it took very little time (about an hour) to reduce the temperature inside the body from ambient to minus 24 degrees C. The system is easily operated, but needs to be reset each time the ignition is turned off, as we discovered on our test run.

driver’s seat gaining additional padding and adjustable lumbar support for those long days in the saddle.

The K2500 has steering wheel controls for the audio and Bluetooth functions, as well as a USB input for iPod users, and the middle seat back folds down to provide twin cup holders and space for delivery books and the like.

In summary, we feel the new Kia K2500 range provides competitively priced and well engineered turnkey solutions for fleet operators, and more importantly no HT licence is required.

Specifications:

Body type Drive Engine type Engine capacity Max power Max torque Fuel consumption C02 emission 0 to 100km/h Airbags ESP Air conditioning Wheel type Spare tyre

Light truck Rear-wheel-drive Inline 4-cylinder 2497cc 96kW/3,800 rpm 255Nm/1,500 rpm 9.9L/100km 258g/km N/a

Driver only N/a Manual 15-inch steel Full size

kia.co.nz

Whatever you need to move... it’s ready.

Walk-Through*

Dry Body* Flat–Deck Truck

FROM $36,490+ORC or lease to own from only $3,650 deposit and $565 per month**.

Features

Kia K2500 Range

•Driver’s Airbag

2.5 Diesel Flat-Deck Truck 2.5 Diesel Dry Body Truck

•ABS Brakes

Facts and Figures

•Bluetooth hands-free •Lowest level of Road User Charges •3 Year Warranty Programme

2.5 L CRDi engine Payload

1000kg

Refrigerator* (with optional standby power)

2.5 Diesel Walk-Through Truck 2.5 Diesel Refrigerator Truck

Max power

Lowest CO2 emission

96 kW/125 hp @2800rpm

258 g/km

Transmission

Fuel economy

6 speed manual

New Zealand standard specifications may vary to that shown. Box body and refrigerator truck cabs shown differ from NZ specification. Fuel and CO2 consumption figures shown are from standard international tests and are stated for the purpose of comparison. *Available on special order.

All finance subject to normal lending criteria. Lease to own rates are based on a 47 monthly payments with final residual.

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No HT License required

from

9.9 L/100 km

WORKHORSE

The Daily returns After a brief hiatus, the revised Iveco Daily range of light, medium and heavy-duty vans has returned to the New Zealand market.

Robert Barry gets behind the wheel.

It’s been a number of years since I last drove an Iveco Daily van, but hopping into the mid-range 50C17 model quickly brought back memories of just how easy it is to drive, thanks to the automated 6-speed single clutch transmission and powerful 3-litre turbodiesel engine.

The engine is a 4-cylinder 2,998cc common rail direct-injection turbocharged diesel unit which uses both exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) in conjunction with a diesel particulate filter to achieve Euro 5 emission compliance. Power is rated at 125kW and maximum torque is 400Nm from as low as 1,250rpm.

Iveco refers to the 6-speed automated manual transmission (AMT) as the Agile, and it certainly does give the Daily driver the ability to use the AMT either leave the transmission in automatic mode or to slide the lever across into manual mode to change up or down a gear as required.

The benefits of a modern AMT are twofold - it offers the fuel efficiency of a conventional manual gearbox, and doesn’t suffer the power output losses of an automatic transmission with a torque converter.

In practice, even in automatic mode it can take a bit of getting used to the transmission shifting from one gear to another, but as driver you soon become accustomed to the rhythm, and find yourself driving along quite swiftly.

34 New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012

Iveco is a part of the global Fiat Chrysler Group which supplies heavy and mediumduty trucks and vans to the international market. The Daily Van range first hit the market in 1978 and in the 35 years since then it has been substantially developed to meet the needs of the commercial buyer.

All model year 2012 Daily vans are supplied with a bulkhead to separate the load area from the drivers cabin, which prevents the risk of parcels or other items of freight from been thrown forward in the event of an accident.

As well as adding a much more secure cargo area it also helps the air conditioning to work more effectively to keep the driver and two front occupants cool, calm and collected during a busy day.

The cabin has also been revised since our last test vehicle. Subtle changes have solved the storage issue for cups of coffee as well as large and small drink bottles. The centre seat back now includes a slide-out table as well as a hidden compartment within it which can store a laptop out of sight.

Further, more driver comfort is assured thanks to the Isri weight adjustable suspension seat, which is one of the most

comfortable seats in the business, and perfectly suited to drivers covering long distances. It even comes with a seat base heater, which was certainly appreciated on the chilly morning when we picked the 50C17 up for evaluation.

The MY 2012 Daily van, single cab-chassis and dual cab-chassis range all offer a variety of wheelbase options, plus four roof heights, giving the range a GVM rating from 3,800kg to 7,000kg, with payload capacities of 1,520kg through to 4,140kg. Volume options are from 8.3 cu m to 17.2 cu m, depending on the length of the vehicle and the chosen roof height.

The 50C17 as tested has a 15.6 cu m cargo area, while its bigger sibling on the same 3,950mm wheelbase has a 17.2 cu m cargo area thanks to a higher roofline.

Our test vehicle has the H2 roof which gives an internal floor-to-ceiling height of 1,900mm while the larger van with the H3 roof has an internal floor to ceiling height of 2,100mm.

Sounds formidable, but in truth if you drive the Daily in the same fashion as you would drive a medium-duty truck, you won’t want for a more comfortable and practical delivery van, and one with a history of satisfied customers worldwide for more than 35 years.

Specifications: Body type Drive Engine type Engine capacity Max power Max torque Fuel consumption C02 emission 0 to 100km/h Airbags ESP Air conditioning Satellite navigation Wheel type Spare tyre

Delivery van

Rear-wheel-drive Inline 4-cylinder diesel 2,998cc 125kW/3,000 rpm 400Nm/1,250 rpm N/A N/A N/A

Driver standard Optional Manual N/A 16-inch steel Full size

DAWN OF THE NEW DAILY. NEW DAILY RANGE COMING SOON. CLASS LEADING POWER OF 152kW* k kW*

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OF NE S RE FEATU NEW DAILY DUAL CAB • 130kW turbo diesel engine • 3.5 tonne tow capacity • 7 seat capacity • Great 5th wheeler

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* 152kW engine is optional

Call 09 277 2070 or 09 277 2756 to book a test drive today. Finance available^.

IVECO Trucks New Zealand. 21 Vogler Drive, Wiri. ^Conditions apply.

iveco.co.nz

IVECO0589

WORKHORSE Specifications: Body type Engine type Drive Engine capacity Max power Max torque Fuel consumption C02 emission 0 to 100km/h Front suspension Rear suspension Roof rack ABS brakes Airbags Stability programme Air conditioning Lap/diagonal belts Satellite navigation Electric seats Burglar alarm Panic button Boot release Cargo cover Load capacity Wheel type Spare tyre

The first White Van? The venerable Ford Transit has been the archetypal White Van for, well, ever, it would seem. And that is probably not a perception that is undeserved, says Damien O’Carroll.

While the first Ford Transit was a German-produced vehicle that was in existence from 1953, the first-generation 1965 British Transit is widely regarded as the “first” Transit, due to the fact that the German van was never widely exported.

However, discounting this German original, the Transit van as we know it has only had three “all-new” variants over the entire 47 years of its existence. The first generation had a massive life span of 21 years – from 1965 to 1986, with a major facelift in 1978 – while the second lasted from 1986 until 2000, when the current-generation van came into existence.

Of course, numerous facelifts and updates have kept the Transit not only relevant, but arguably at the pointy end of the White Van segment, as the current model proves.

The biggest addition to the 2012 edition of the Transit comes in the form of a stop/start system, plus the new 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine. Cutting off the engine when waiting – out of gear, clutch out – the stop/ start system is a fuel-saving

device that works remarkably well. The cut-out and restart is abrupt, but then it always is on diesel engines, and it works very well indeed.

The 114kW/385Nm 2.2-litre diesel engine is a remarkably strong unit, with massive torque lurking around the lower and mid rev range, while the 6-speed manual transmission is a solid, rugged unit with a positive shift action and a light clutch.

On the safety front the Transit packs an impressive punch, so to speak, with ABS brakes, stability control, electronic brake force distribution, traction control and passenger and driver’s airbags.

Inside the incredibly functional cabin, the Transit scores Bluetooth phone connectivity, comfortable seats (that do, however, lack much in the way of lateral support), a single disc CD player with an auxiliary input, and a large number of handy cubbies, cupholders and fold-out trays.

One particularly nice feature on the Transit is the addition of hill launch assist. It holds the brake on for a few seconds when the vehicle senses it is on

36 New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012

an incline, and is an absolute blessing in a big manual van, particularly around the city.

While it is indeed a large vehicle, the LWB Transit is remarkably easy to manoeuvre through traffic. The engine is responsive and strong, meaning that keeping up with traffic is certainly not an issue, and going for that valuable gap in traffic is actually an option. The huge mirrors are a godsend, in both heavy traffic and squeezing through tight places in reverse.

Rear load space is, of course, simply massive, with a rubberised floor and access via two sliding side doors and twin rear barn

Six-door van 4-cylinder turbodiesel Rear wheels 2198cc 114kW/3,500rpm 385Nm/2,000rpm 7.9/100km 209g/km N/A McPherson struts Leaf springs N/A Yes Four Yes Yes Yes No No Yes No Remote locking No 8.45cu m Steel Steel

doors with 180 degree opening.

With an interior that offers 1,390mm between the wheel arches (1,762mm overall), a maximum height of 1,330mm and a colossal 3,399mm of interior length, the LWB Transit is capacious indeed.

Big, white and extraordinarily car-like to drive, the Transit would certainly seem to have a lot more life left in it yet.

Fitout

RimPro-Tec curbs kerbs An innovative Kiwi-made wheel protection product that saves drivers from kerbing their alloy wheels has recently been launched in New Zealand.

RimPro-Tec is a strong PVC plastic strip that when applied to car rims creates a tough buffer inhibiting potential damage associated with hazards such as kerbs, car wash rails and drive-through barriers and such like.

Invented by Auckland-based husband and wife team Deborah and Chris Chester, RimPro-Tec won three awards at the 2011 Sema Industry Awards in Las Vegas, including “Best New Product.”

Made to fit all sizes between 13-inch and 22-inch wheels, RimPro-Tec is an inexpensive yet attractive way to provide protection to expensive alloy rims. A range of nine coloured inners is available to match or complement the paintwork of the car the RimPro-Tec is being fitted to.

Each RimPro-Tec system comes complete with four inners, four outers, a fitting tool and instructions for installation. There is also a step-by-step guide video available on the RimPro-Tec

website.

RimPro-Tec has passed an NZTA road test which found that its adhesive tape, made by 3M, is 20 times stronger than needed to hold the PVC strip safely in place at high speeds.

The RimPro-Tec system ($119) as well as coloured inners ($29 per set of four) can be purchased directly from the website www.rimpro-tec.com, selected new car dealerships, or by calling 0800 4 RIMPRO.

Caged load Whether braking in an emergency or in the event of an accident or rollover, Milford Cargo Barriers says it’s incredible the damage that loose loads can do to the occupants of a vehicle.

In a 48km/h crash, an ordinary suitcase weighing the airline limit of 20kg, hard up against the seat, will strike with the force of a large motorcycle!

You can save those occupants care about from potentially lethal loads such as work gear, groceries, camping or sporting equipment — all of which can be hurled forward at great force.

Milford Cargo Barriers says its products are designed, tested and manufactured to provide the ultimate protection from potential disaster in the most demanding driving conditions.

With a range of more than 200 cargo barriers to suit all manner of passenger, light commercial, 4WD and sports utility vehicles, Milford says it is the largest provider of vehicle load restraint (VLR) products worldwide.

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New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012 37

Fitout

RNZAF firefighters back on track Seamless teamwork by SG Fleet NZ Ltd and key suppliers Ford Motor Company of New Zealand, Nautech Electronics and Fully Equipped ensured the swift delivery of new rapid intervention vehicle (RIV) for the firefighting team at the Royal New Zealand Air Force’s Auckland base. Pictures Jill Cliffe/SG Fleet “Fit for purpose” is the phrase used by everyone associated with the new Ford Ranger rapid intervention vehicle commissioned for the Royal New Zealand Air Force earlier this year.

The silver 4WD double cab Ford utility vehicle certainly looks the part. With “R1” on its side doors, a sleek light array on its roof, and fluorescent emergency vehicle stripes, the big Ford sits ready on the Whenuapai airfield tarmac for the on-duty fire crew to leap into action whenever required.

It’s one of the busiest vehicles in the Rescue Fire fleet, according to acting base fire master Paul Leadbetter.

“The RIV’s main role is to get the officer in charge (OIC) of the fire rescue crew of the day to an aircraft incident rapidly.

This enables the OIC to size up

the situation and deploy the other emergency vehicles in the most efficient manner to deal with an aircraft crash or fire incident,” says Leadbetter.

“It also has many other roles, such as being deployed to light aircraft fields on exercise due to its firefighting abilities and its operability on uneven terrain. Other dayto-day duties include bird management, assisting the tower personnel with runway checks, escorting and many other ancillary duties.”

In fact, Leadbetter says it’s virtually impossible to operate without a fully-functional RIV, and with the new Ford in place, he and his team can complete their duties effectively and efficiently.

“The previous vehicle needed replacing,” says Leadbetter.

“That’s where Bryce Grove

38 New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012

from SG Fleet stepped in, coming out to the base to see the old vehicle and ensuring he understood the exact specifications we needed.

“Our primary concern was the vehicle’s ability to carry the firefighting foam tank, a steel container weighing 260kg when filled with 220 litres of foam solution. It also needed to be capable of carrying four

people and miscellaneous firefighting equipment at the same time. We had no specific brand requirements, simply that the vehicle could safely carry out the duties we required of it. Bryce informed me that the Ford Ranger came well within the safety spec, and he was confident that we wouldn’t experience any problems with it.”

Grove, who is the general manager, trade operations at SG Fleet, says with this year’s relatively limited availability of commercial vehicles – a flowon effect of the 2011 Japanese tsunami and the floods in Thailand – combined with the RNZAF’s requirements, meant

Geoff Tipane, SG Fleet's general manager with John Blackman, NZDF northern region service delivery manager

Fitout

the number of vehicles suitable for the job was relatively small.

“Having concluded that the Ford Ranger best met the required specifications, we were then unable to source a new vehicle in their preferred colour.

That’s where Ford NZ helped out, sourcing us a near-new vehicle from their Press fleet which fit the bill,” says Grove.

Trevor Auger, Ford NZ sales manager, said the urgency of the RNZAF need meant looking beyond the norm for a solution.

“When SG Fleet came to us to enquire about the availability of a new Ranger, it was the worst possible time, with the entirety of our new vehicles already committed to other customers,” said Auger. “However, when Bryce explained the urgency of the requirement, we set about finding a solution.”

Ford NZ identified a vehicle on its press demonstration fleet that fit the RNZAF’s needs.

“They were willing to take a

near-new vehicle rather than one fresh off the wharf, and SG Fleet was able to make it all happen. All-in-all it was very rewarding to be able to go that little bit further and come up with a solution that worked for everyone.”

With that aspect solved, the team at Fully Equipped took over the next step in the vehicle’s preparation for its customised role.

At Fully Equipped’s Auckland site the Ford was fitted with two Fully Equipped specialities – a Crown fibreglass canopy, and a contour-moulded Tuf Dek liner – before the custom-made steel tank was fitted into the rear tray.

Fully Equipped co-director Michael Reed says the New Zealand-made light commercial vehicle accessories are manufactured specifically for NZ conditions. “Crown canopies and Tuf Dek liners are known for their quality, reliability, strength, design, and longevity

Acting Base Fire Master Paul Leadbetter

– characteristics which all contribute to this vehicle being made fit for purpose,” he said.

Leadbetter adds, “The guys from Fully Equipped liaised primarily with Bryce, but asked me about certain elements such as the correct placement of the foam-holding steel tank. They were great about keeping me informed of progress, and when the vehicle moved to the next installer, Nautech Electronics.

“The radio antennas, lights and warning devices were all supplied by Nautech, and they removed the radios from our old vehicle and fitted them to the Ford,” says Leadbetter.

“I was the primary person liaising with them. They invited me to their East Tamaki workshop and involved me all the way through with radio placement, what type of lights we needed, etc. I believe Nautech went out of their way to make sure that everything suited our needs and also made some design changes for us – they fit out the NZ Police cars as well.

“The police have a slightly different set-up with the control unit for the warning devices. We said we’d prefer it in a different location, which meant a little bit of design change. That was no problem to them. I was sent photos and technical sheets about the equipment being fitted, and was asked at every step if the item purpose-fit, was it right, was I happy with this.”

Overall the customisation of the Ford into the RNZAF’s newest RIV was a very smooth project.

“SG Fleet went out of their way. They knew of the concerns we had and how valuable that vehicle is to our day-to-day operations. The project was given priority with them, and everyone worked as quickly as

possible with no lapses. Each step was mapped out, with each stage being checked with me, and they even doublechecked with me before doing any drilling or fitting.”

Now that the Ford Ranger RIV is in operation, Leadbetter says the vehicle definitely suits its intended purpose.

“All the operators of the vehicle are very happy with the fit-out, the ease of use, how the truck handles out on the airfield. The guys have a sense of pride while driving around in it and appreciate the quality of the actual vehicle itself,” he said.

“The fire masters on the other two bases, Ohakea and Woodbourne, said it was important to get this vehicle right as it’s the template for future upgrades. Plans are now being finalised to update their RIVs in the near future.”

Customised fit-out components From Fully Equipped Ltd: Crown canopy and Tuf Dek tray liner which are purposedesigned and manufactured for the Ford Ranger with considerable input from Ford Motor Company of NZ. Their engineering expertise assisted with the strengthening of the rear suspension and the fitment of the foam-carrying steel tank to ensure even distribution of weight.

From Nautech Electronics Ltd: Designed, manufactured and supplied the roof-fitted light bar, headlight flashers, windscreen LED units, tail light LED and siren.

Deinstalled and reinstalled three emergency radios, with their experts suggesting the aerial locations of the original vehicle to be amended on the new vehicle to ensure radio reception was maximised.

New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012 39

automechanika

Opel Ampera is the European version of the Holden Volt electric car

Automechanika

Automechanika is the world’s largest automotive parts, accessories and equipment show, held biannually in Frankfurt, Germany.

Company Vehicle’s sister magazine, Motor Equipment News, was there, and spotted a number of interesting fleet product,s along

with catching up with Airplex and Proform Plastics, which were the NZ suppliers exhibiting there.

One interesting theme was the growth in the use of smart phone technology for use in cars. We saw several companies displaying

By Cathy Parker

devices that used the smart phone screen as the display for items such as reversing cameras and tyre pressure monitors. We will let the pictures tell the story.

Proform Plastics was one of the NZ Exhibitors 40 New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012

automechanika

That is one fast roof box - Thule Excellence

Nice van fitout - this one for automotive technician training company Herth & Buss

Airplex was the other NZ exhibitors

This conformable LPG tank on the Prins stand looked interesting and then I found out it was made by PPI in Christchurch New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012 41

ECO

More you drive, the better Driving a car for a week or so gives a good indication of its abilities. But if you really want to get down to the nitty-gritty, a longer period is required. Here’s John Oxley’s take after a month in our long-term Holden Commodore SV-6 LPG.

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Promo ends November 30th 2012

It’s amazing. The more research you do into a subject, the more you disc over just how much you don’t know.

This was made quite clear when we received a call from Rockgas, which is part of Contact Energy, telling us all about the Rockgas Auto LPG Fuel Card, and the quite large savings that can be made by using this card, which is accepted at more than 200 fillings stations across New Zealand.

We had already been blown away by the savings you can get just by using LPG gas from a normal service station, where you can expect a price of around $1,30 a litre. However, the downside is that the Commodore uses more LPG than it does petrol (thanks to the differences in calorific value).

Based on travelling 1,000km a month, using petrol you’ll spend $196 a month in your Commodore SV-6. Use regular LPG service station gas, and this drops to $153 a month. However, if you get a Rockgas card, you’ll be paying $137 a month. And if

you’re a corporate Rockgas client, this could drop even more!

For those who like their maths, that’s a saving of around 30 percent, which you won’t even get from diesel (adding in the RUC), and even if there was a diesel Commodore available, which there isn’t!

But there are other benefits of using LPG. First up, it’s a locally-sourced fuel. Secondly, it’s considerably cleaner than either petrol or diesel in terms of the environment, with the main by-products carbon dioxide and water. Lastly, in terms of actual CO2 emissions, it produces about 14 percent less than petrol.

Is it freely available? At last count the LPG Association of New Zealand says there are more than 570 LPG refuel points around the country, which certainly takes away lack of availability as an issue for fleet use.

Pretty convincing case. But what are the downsides?

Well, one of them is certainly not filling up. Drive alongside the LPG pump at the service station, flip open the normal fuel filler cap on the side of the Holden (where you’d put in petrol in other models), and there’s a threaded pipe. This matches up to the filler valve at the pump handle, and you simply screw it on. There’s no chance of gas escaping (well, just a wee whiff) and you then you pump in the gas as you would with petrol or diesel.

One big difference (at least at the stations we used) – you can’t use the pump’s pre-set settings; instead you have to hold the pump lever, although you can lock it in place, until you’ve got the amount of gas you want into the tank.

When it’s full, it stops, just as with your petrol filler, and you simply unscrew it and put everything back.

If you chose an SV-6 because you wanted sporty performance, that could be a downside, for the LPG version is about 30kW down on the petrol version. It’s still quite grunty, but not as much as a petrol V6, and you CAN feel the difference.

It’s still a 3.6-litre V6 double overhead camshaft engine developed specially from the petrol version to run only on LPG. This eliminates the compromise that is inevitable with a car designed to run on both petrol and LPG, and gets the best out of the motor.

However, if you wanted an SV-6 for its looks and its features, well there’s nothing amiss, clad as it is with a deep front spoiler with an aggressive lower air intake, a large grille, headlamps with black bezel detail, an integrated aero boot lid lip together with a sports rear spoiler, and18-inch twin fivespoke machined alloy wheels.

All these shout “sports” in no uncertain terms, and even without the muscular 210 kW direct injection 3.6-litre V6 there’s still plenty of sporting action thanks to the with a 6-speed auto ‘gearbox with sequential manual mode for when you want to get the best out of the performance.

Is the SV6 all about performance then? Well not really, for it’s an exceedingly well-equipped car, with all the bells and whistles including climate controlled air conditioning and electric windows and mirrors.

But it’s the latest gizmos which Holden is shouting most about, particularly the Holden-iQ system which brings music, telephone and satellite navigation features to Series II models in one clear, package, with Bluetooth, USB, iPod and MP3 player integration, controlled through a 6.5-inch full colour multifunction touch screen mounted in the centre stack. Satnav and a reversing camera are optional.

It’s a great system, but our only gripe is that the satnav used American idioms which were initially confusing, until you got used to it.

There’s tilt and reach adjustment of the steering wheel (which has multi function

Pay

controls for the sound system, phone and trip computer), as well as four-way electric adjustment of the driver’s seat, lumbar support adjustment on both front seats, and an easyto-operate cruise control. There’s also a trip computer which shows average fuel consumption, average speed, digital speedometer, distance/time to go, fuel used/range, odometer/ tripmeter/trip time, and you can set your own visual and audible speed warning.

There’s aircon, and electric windows and mirrors, the seats are comfortable, the boot is big, although it reduces if you opt for a full-size spare wheel instead of the standard tyre inflation kit.

That apart, the SV6 is a very nice offering. It’s goodlooking, it’s comfortable, it’s well-equipped, it’s smooth and powerful. Add in the fact that you’re using a clean-burning fuel, and saving money at the same time, and it makes sense – especially if you’re a high-

Specifications: Body type Drive Engine type Engine capacity Max power Max torque Fuel consumption C02 emission Airbags ESP Air conditioning Satellite navigation Cargo cover Boot capacity Wheel type Spare tyre

4-door sedan Rear V6 LPG 3564cc 180kW/6400rpm 320Nm/2900rpm 12.3L/100km 170g/km 6 Yes Yes Optional N/A 495 litres 18 inch alloy Inflation kit

Estimated running costs 36 months, 60,000km Price

$55,890 WOF $180 Fuel $9,240* Registration $1,386 Servicing to 60k: $1,556 Total Tyre cost: $1,304 Residual (30%) $16,767 Indicative final figure $52,789 *Using Rockgas reduces the final figure by $1,380 The running cost model is used for illustrative and indicative purposes only. Adrenalin Publishing Limited accepts no responsibility or liability should any costs indicated in the model change from those published. All residual values are based on a calculated 30 percent as a financial instrument and are not the expected or indicative resale values.

mileage user!

On top of that there’s the full complement of safety alphabet soup, enough to give it a fivestar Ancap rating.

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New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012 43

ECO

Ultra-economy Swift Robert Barry wonders if the diesel-powered Suzuki Swift is the solution to a problem that nobody has.

The new diesel version of the Suzuki Swift is great fun to drive, and retains all the character of the petrol Swifts, being nippy and nimble and easy to park as well as very, very frugal.

You don’t need to rev the engine to get the Swift diesel to move swiftly. The Fiat-sourced 1.3-litre DDiS unit produces 190Nm of torque from only 1,750rpm, so changing up earlier rather than later is recommended.

Starting up, the Swift diesel engine clatters away loudly, just like most small high compression direct injection units we have sampled before, but once it’s on the move, it becomes much more subdued and relaxed.

It is one of the few cars I have driven up the Auckland Harbour Bridge which would easily accelerate uphill in fifth gear.

The Swift diesel is sourced from the Suzuki factory in Hungary, hence it’s a European specification model that has very similar equipment to the Swift GLX petrol models sourced from Japan, but the diesel gets alloy wheels instead of the steel wheels that are fitted to the GLX. Sadly the factory in Hungary is not able to provide Bluetooth

telephony as a standard option on the Swift diesel, but your local Suzuki dealer will be able to provide an aftermarket kit if required.

There are a couple of minor issues I have with the Swift diesel. One is that it’s only available with a manual gearbox in a market that predominantly desires automatic transmissions, and two, being a European spec version, the indicator and wiper stalks are on the wrong side of the steering wheel for our righthand-drive market.

But you quickly acclimatise to changing gear and indicating turns with the same hand, but there were a number of times I went around a corner with the wipers flapping away instead!

However I did like the heated side mirrors that quickly cleared on wet days.

However the biggest caveat against buying the diesel Swift is our Road User Charges system which doesn’t recognise that it’s a very frugal and low emission vehicle.

From August 1, a Suzuki Swift diesel has had to pay $48 including GST per 1,000km because it is included in the under 3.5 ton weight band. So the Swift diesel owner pays the

44 New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012

same amount of RUC as larger and heavier diesel-powered cars, SUVs and light commercial vehicles.

Using the Right Car website, on August 6 we compared the fuel costs of a 1.4-litre petrol Suzuki Swift GLX manual (5.5L/100km) versus the 1.3-litre DDiS diesel (4.2L/100km) over a 20,000km annual mileage.

The Swift 1.3-litre diesel manual would cost $2,490 (including RUC) per annum to run, against $2,810 per annum for the Swift GLX 1.4-litre petrol manual. So the diesel owner is only $320.00 a year better off.

Bear in mind that the Swift GLX manual has an on the road price of $22,500 and the similarly specified Swift Diesel is $25,990, so the price differential of $3,490 will not be recouped over a three or four year term in

fuel savings alone.

For urban-based couriers involved in stop/start motoring and for people who regularly cover longer distances the economy of the Swift diesel and the nature of the torque-y DDiS engine would still appeal, even if the savings are not huge overall.

We question whether the Swift diesel is a solution to a problem faced by fleets given the nature of the current debate over the taxation of diesel and vehicle registration in general.

However it does add another unique dimension to the range of Swift models available to fleet buyers and for that Suzuki deserve congratulations for bringing it to the market.

Specifications:

Body type Five-door hatch Drive Front-wheel-drive Engine type Inline Four-cylinder Engine capacity 1,248cc Max power 55kW/4,000 rpm Max torque 190Nm/1,750 rpm Fuel consumption 4.2L/100km C02 emission 109g/km 0 to 100km/h N/a Air bags Seven ESP Yes Air conditioning Manual Satellite navigation No Cargo cover Yes Boot capacity 211/528L Wheel type 16-inch Alloy Spare tyre Space saver Estimated running costs 36 months, 60000km Price

$25,990 WOF $180 Fuel $6,870 Registration $1,683 Servicing to 60k: $1,791 Total Tyre cost: $1,164 Residual (30%) $7,797 Indicative final figure $29,881 The running cost model is used for illustrative and indicative purposes only. Adrenalin Publishing Limited accepts no responsibility or liability should any costs indicated in the model change from those published. All residual values are based on a calculated 30 percent as a financial instrument and are not the expected or indicative resale values.

ECO

chip surfaces.

However it’s when you come to the equipment list that you realise just what exceptional value-for-money the new Rio offers.

Standard equipment includes daytime running lamps, trip computer, air conditioning, power windows, four-speaker sound system with USB/ aux inputs, Bluetooth phone integration, electric heated door mirrors, multi-function steering wheel, remote central locking, and in-cabin headlight adjustment.

On top of that it comes with ESP stability programme, disc brakes front and rear, six airbags, hill start assist, and tagged with no less than the maximum fivestar EuroNcap safety rating.

Rio takes two steps up The latest Kia Rio has breathed new life into the small car market, proving that small doesn’t have to be dumpy. John Oxley reports.

I met Peter Schreyer in 2006 at Kia’s German design office in Russelsheim, near Frankfurt, soon after he had been headhunted from Audi to head up the Korean company’s design team.

We were there for the launch of a new Carens, a people mover that Schreyer hadn’t designed, and about as far removed from the Audi products he had been used to as you can get. But that was beside the point, for we had a chance to question Schreyer about his ideas for a future design direction for Kia. Six years on, and those designs are now part of Kia’s DNA. Peter Schreyer has firmly stamped his mark on the brand, and his designs are both refreshing and energising.

The new Rio is one of his latest offerings, and, in his own words, Schreyer has taken not one, but two steps up in styling evolution.

His objective was to make Kia’s second-smallest car feel less like a cheap runabout, more “prestigious and substantial”.

The good news – he’s succeeded.

At the same time Kia has joined the eco club, offering a stop-start system as well as a 6-speed manual gearbox to give economy at hybrid levels.

Indeed, with the 1.4-litre petrol version as tested here, we easily managed to achieve Kia’s claimed 5.3L/100km – which is about the same as we were getting from Toyota’s Prius C hybrid.

It starts on the outside, where Schreyer has managed to impart a sporty coupe-look to the Rio. The car looks solid and “planted”, and it’s hard to believe it hits the streets at under $23,000. It looks much more expensive.

This is especially so once you get inside the car, for the latest Rio’s cabin is worlds apart from the previous model in terms of quality, with solid switchgear and improved build quality which put many of the opposition to shame.

And for the driver it’s easy to get comfortable, for the steering wheel offers both tilt and reach adjustment, while the driver’s seat has height adjustment. The seats are nicely shaped, and there’s enough sideways support to hold you in hard driving, although the fat C-pillar does limit over-the-shoulder vision when you’re joining traffic.

In the back you could get three adults in at a pinch, although two would be more comfortable, and kids even

more so – but there’s plenty of headroom.

The rear seats split 60/40, but the squab is fixed, which means you can’t get a flat floor when both backrests are flopped forward.

Boot space is average for the class, at 288 litres with the seats up, and the rear door lifts high out of the way for easy access.

On the road the Rio is quick off the mark, as you’d expect with 80kW/137Nm at your disposal, and the 6-speed manual gearbox is as slick and smooth as they come so you can get the best out of that gutsy 1.4-litre motor.

Each time you stop, of course, the stop-start system (Kia calls it ISG – Intelligent Stop & Go System) switches off the engine, restarting as soon as you release the clutch, and although not the quickest-acting on the market, it doesn’t slow you down.

With 185/65 tyres on 15-inch steel rims both ride quality and handling are top of the class, but we could have done without the tyre noise, especially on coarse

Specifications: Body type Drive Engine type Engine capacity Max power Max torque Fuel consumption C02 emissions 0 to 100km/h Airbags ESP Air conditioning Satellite navigation Cargo cover Boot capacity Wheel type Spare tyre

5-door hatch

Front wheels 4-cyl petrol 1,396cc 80kW/6300rpm 137Nm/4200rpm 5.3L/100km 124g/km N/A Six Yes Yes No Yes 288/923L Steel Space saver

Estimated running costs 36 Months 60000km Price$24,990 WOF $180 Fuel $8,400 Registration$1,293 Servicing to 60k: $1,750 Total Tyre cost: $1,046 Residual (30%)$7,737 Indicative final figure$27,922 The running cost model is used for illustrative and indicative purposes only. Adrenalin Publishing Limited accepts no responsibility or liability should any costs indicated in the model change from those published. All residual values are based on a calculated 30 percent as a financial instrument and are not the expected or indicative resale values.

New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012 45

Fleet management

Working smarter not harder Robert Barry talks to fleet management specialists about using SMS and other communication technology for better day-to-day running of a vehicle fleet.

The advent of smart phone applications (apps) and SMS messaging has been a huge gain for the ongoing management of any fleet, regardless of how small or large it may be.

The ability to use cost-effective telecommunications technology to outsource daily fleet management function away from internal resources will enable businesses in the future to simply be able to focus upon their business and for their fleet drivers to become accountable for ensuring that their company vehicle is correctly serviced, registered and warranted.

Fleets can also use this technology to broadcast an urgent message to their drivers should a state of emergency be declared in a region, and the company wants to ascertain the whereabouts and safety of the drivers and vehicles.

According to SG Fleet NZ managing director Geoff Tipene, more and more fleet customers are looking for a solution to outsource their

day-to-day fleet management as their internal resources simply don’t have the time to make telephone calls to fleet drivers to remind them about service appointments, warrant of fitness testing and license renewals.

Geoff says the ability of a fleet management provider such as SG Fleet to communicate directly to the driver of a vehicle through a smart phone app will save the client a great deal of time, money and unnecessary hassle.

“A lot of businesses just don’t have time or internal resource to do the fleet stuff,” he says.

Fleet reviews can then be collated quarterly or half yearly from the data compiled through the SG Fleet management app.

SG Fleet is currently trialing its latest fleet management app with a fleet of more than 200 vehicles. All the drivers have companysupplied cellular phones provided as part of their employment package and SG Fleet

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Fleet management recorded by the company’s fuel card data.

Using the smart phone's GPS system, the SG Fleet app can direct the driver to the exact location of a dealership or service centre and also provide the contact phone number and email address if required.

If a notification is sent and the driver doesn’t respond or acknowledge, then a member of the SG Fleet customer service team will call the person directly. More often than not this situation arises if the client’s staff member is on annual leave and hasn’t checked their phone for messages!

“We also keep a message audit trail in the event of a message dispute. It would be hard to say you didn’t receive the message because we have the proof of when it was sent online,” says Geoff.

has the client’s permission to contact each individual in regard to their vehicle.

The technology behind the SG Fleet fleet management app is incredibly clever and will continue to be developed and refined as it is used by more and more clients.

Notifications and the locations of scheduled servicing for the vehicle are sent directly to the driver’s smart phone and this is calculated by the amount of mileage travelled which is

Orix fleet management tools Orix fleet sales manager Nigel Bell-Booth says that two electronic fleet management products offered by Orix called Text Alert and the Orix Online customer centre are proving hugely popular with fleets of all shapes and sizes.

Nigel says that Text Alert is an SMS messaging system that allows Orix to source monthly, up-to-date odometer data on client vehicles, providing a greater degree of

accuracy in its maintenance, servicing, and contract management systems.

He says that Text Alert can also be used to remind company drivers of upcoming or overdue vehicle service and WOF requirements, greatly enhancing the qualitative management of the client’s fleet, and reinforcing proactive vehicle management responsibilities on the part of the driver.

The Orix Customer Centre is a webbased fleet management tool that provides clients with a broad array of vehicle data, fleet analysis, accounts information, and client reports, which improves management communication flows and decision making within the fleet.

Nigel says the customer centre was designed with input from many long-standing Orix clients and features an intuitive and easy to understand menu based system, clear and relevant exceptions reporting, and the ability for the user to easily tailor aspects of the system to their specific requirements.

One size does not fit all FleetPartners national sales manager Vern McLaren says that SMS reminders is not a product which the company would offer to all customers as it would not be suitable to their needs.

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Fleet management He says that only around 1,000 FleetPartners clients currently use this system to send WOF and service reminders directly to their drivers.

“The real value of the SMS reminder system is enjoyed by the larger fleets, but some customers with smaller fleets would prefer that their internal fleet manager is keep in the loop because there is not a large number of people or vehicles to manage, and the customer also wishes to maintain their own internal database,” he says.

“It is also difficult to offer this service where the fleet is shared with another leasing and management supplier who may not be able to offer the same type of SMS product as yours.”

While they have proven to be popular in the heavy transport sector, particularly in tracking off-highway mileage for RUC rebates, Vern McLaren says that both SMS and GPS fleet management systems are still relatively expensive technologies which are in their infancy.

“In our experience technology such as this is still not a great driver in the passenger vehicle market,” he says.

Managing in the Cloud We’ve heard a lot about “Cloud” computing,

where all your data is stored carefully in a cyberspace environment known as the Cloud.

Why the Cloud? Well it’s a nice way that all those international global companies use to reassure you, the customer, that your data is safe, somewhere on the planet. And don’t we love to see those gadgets update here, here and here? All at the touch of a button?

As fleet management becomes more and more computerised, operating in the Cloud is something that many fleets, small, medium and large, may like to consider as part of their arsenal of management tools. After all, wouldn’t it be nice to be in the car park ready to book that pool car sitting there straight off your smart phone? Or be able to issue that all-important repair authorisation while away from your office?

FleetWorks Ltd provides not only fleet management and pool car booking tools, but others that help you manage your fleet, and your staff who use those all-important organisation cars.

Software tools that operate in a secure, New Zealand-based Cloud environment are available to all sizes of business from FleetWorks, and are designed to make your life as fleet manager easy and, more importantly, manage your costs and see what your fleet is doing. Reporting is also vital to any business

Unlock the wealth in your fleet

and through FleetWorks’ unique customised reporting module you can create all kinds of reports on everything to do with your fleet.

However, one little bit of information you may not know is that the New Zealand Government mandates that all its related electronic data is kept within New Zealand territorial waters, and recommends to businesses owned and operated in New Zealand do the same.

Company Vehicle recommends that you check exactly where in the Cloud your data is being stored, and you might also want to check just how often it is backed up and where the backups themselves are stored.

When considering software suppliers it’s always worthwhile asking for their development plans or upgrade programmes, this will give a clear indication of the commitment of the supplier to their product and customers.

Company Vehicle is aware of one new application being launched later this year which will bring significant, positive benefits to pool car operators, introducing significant flexibility and vehicle use options to the Customers’ organisation. We look forward to reviewing this application in the next issue.

You could have thousands of dollars sitting in your car park!

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48 New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012

Executive Cars

Segment buster?

Does the new Q3 raise the stakes in the premium compact crossover market? Robert Barry spends a week to find out if it’s a segment buster.

The continued developments of derivatives of platforms within the premium marketplace shows no sign of abating, particularly from the likes of Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz which seem determined to create segments within segments.

Audi now has more models and variants than ever before, with the A1, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8, Q7, Q5, and Q3 car lines, and we are reliably informed that there are more in the pipeline.

Audi started its crossover journey a few years ago with the 7-seat luxury liner known as the Q7 which took on the Volvo XC-90, Mercedes-Benz ML-Class and BMW X5, then it developed the smaller Q5 crossover to take on the BMW X3 and Volvo XC-60.

Now the even smaller Audi Q3 crossover has arrived to give the BMW X1 and the Range Rover Evoque a run for their money. I personally find the overall styling of the Audi is particularly conservative, as it seems more like a taller

version of the Audi A3 hatchback rather than an aggressive looking SUV such as the Evoque or the X1.

However Audi buyers are supposedly conservative creatures who prefer quality and function to overtly styled automotive fashion, and so should be quite happy with the discrete character of the Q3, which shares its platform with the VW Golf and some technology with the VW Tiguan.

What the Q3 does offer for its $70,900 price tag is a high grade cloth interior specification with micrometallic platinum inlays in the dashboard and door trims, and an overall build quality that is just a bit more superior to its lesser – but no less-equipped – VW cousin.

Climate air-conditioning, heated exterior mirrors, rear parking aid, Bluetooth audio and telephony functions, a multifunction trip computer and iPod integration are standard in the Q3, as are

height adjustable pews for the front seat occupants, with a central armrest.

The Audi Concert audio system offers a CD player and twin SD card readers with up to 32GB of storage for your favourite driving tunes.

Opinion is divided among motoring journalists over the pop-up information screen in the centre of the dashboard that provides information on all the car’s systems, and also allows the fitment of the option of satellite navigation package ($3,800).

Our Q3 quattro test car came almost completely standard and was powered by the 2-litre 130kW TDI (common rail turbo diesel) engine coupled to the 7-speed Audi S-tronic dual clutch transmission. This combination provides plenty of power, both off the line, and for overtaking on the open road. Slipping the lever into Sport mode provides even more response and crisper changes for press-on

driving when required.

However, it’s the driving experience behind the steering wheel that really separates the Q3 from other mass market crossovers in this segment.

It truly does feel more like a hot hatch than an up-market compact SUV. Thanks to the dynamic suspension set-up and 17-inch alloy wheels shod with 235/55 tyres there’s very little body roll when cornering, and the allwheel-drive traction provided by the Quattro drive train provides confidence in both dry and wet weather conditions.

There’s also a higher proportion of lightweight steel in the make up of the Q3 that gives it a stiffer structure, which then turns into tauter on-road handling and ensures there is less noise vibration and harshness intruding into the cabin.

Naturally the Q3 is more likely to be found in an urban environment rather than an off-road one. It may offer a raised driving height, but the ground clearance of 170mm is not much more than many standard cars, so the odd foray down a gravel road or a sports field at a private school will be as far as most owners will venture off the tarmac.

In summary, despite its hot hatch on stilts look, the Q3 is not a segment buster.

It is a very competent and capable crossover for the urban executive that offers the cachet of the Audi brand with all the positive attributes of safety, quality and function that entails.

Specifications Body type 5 door wagon Drive All-wheel-drive Engine type Inline 4-cylinder diesel Engine capacity 1968cc Max power 130kW/5,000 rpm Max torque 380Nm/1,750 rpm Fuel consumption 5.9L/100km C02 emission 156g/km 0 to 100km/h 8.2 sec Airbags Six ESP Yes Air conditioning Climate Satellite navigation Optional Cargo cover Yes Boot capacity 460/1365 litres Wheel type 17-inch Alloy Spare tyre Space saver

New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012 49

Executive Cars

Cruiser, not a bruiser Robert Barry samples life behind the wheel of the new Chrysler 300 Limited and 300C Luxury models.

The old adage of “there’s no substitute for cubic inches” has well and truly been consigned to history and there is no better example of this than the new 3.6L V6 Pentastar engine found in the newly revamped Chrysler 300 range.

There IS a 6.4-litre V8 engine in the 300C SRT, but most buyers of the 300 Limited, 300C and 300C Luxury will plump for the 3.6-litre Pentastar petrol engine or a new 3-litre V6 turbodiesel..

We test drove both the $57,990 300 Limited and the $67,990 300C Luxury, both with the Pentastar engine that is attached to an 8-speed automatic transmission.

The 210kW/340Nm Pentastar V6 engine is a quiet and refined unit that provides more than adequate power for overtaking when on the open road. The 300C Luxury has a selectable Sport Mode 2 function that changes the transmission shift points, but the 300 Limited does not and provided perfectly acceptable performance without it.

The 300 Limited might be the entry level model with 18-inch

alloy wheels and cloth upholstery on the multi-adjustable seats, but it is still well equipped. with keyless entry and stop/start, and the U Connect central touch screen that allows fingertip control of the airconditioning, audio, and Bluetooth systems.

Other safety features include rain brake support, ready alert braking, electronic stability control, hill start assist, and all speed traction control. Tyre pressure monitoring, and a rear parking camera with front and rear parking sensors are also included as standard in the 300 and you need this feature because rear visibility for the driver is restricted by the high boot lid and sloping extremities.

It has adaptive forward lighting and bi-xenon headlamps with auto leveling and daytime running lights.

Where the 300 Limited has bright chrome accents externally, the 300C Luxury is distinguished by platinum chrome exterior mirrors, platinum grille and bars, platinum chrome door handles and mirrors, and 20-inch polished aluminium wheels. It’s

50 New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012

also supplied with a firmer touring suspension package.

The 300C Luxury interior is distinguished from the 300 Limited by its premium nappa leather upholstery, while the steering wheel houses two steering wheel-mounted shift controls which access the Sport Mode 2 automatic transmission function.

The interior of the 300C Luxury also differs from the Limited with satin chrome trim on interior centre stack and dash vents, and mocha wooden accents on centre console, dash and door panels. Other neat touches include front seats that offer heating or cooling, as well

as cup holders that will keep your drinks warm or cool too! Even the steering wheel gets a heated function.

Adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring and adaptive forward lighting are also standard in the 300C Luxury.

A high-performance 10-speaker audio system with 506W amplifier for highdefinition sound is standard, while a premium 19-speaker system with subwoofer and 900W amplifier is available as an option in the Luxury.

So which of the two models is the better option as an executive car?

If you can live without all the bells and whistles of the 300C Luxury, then the 300 Limited is a perfectly comfortable long distance cruiser that’s quiet and refined in our uniquely NZ road conditions on it’s 18-inch wheel and tyre package.

The 300C Luxury has some great additional features and

specification but the larger 20-inch wheel and tyre package combined with the firmer touring suspension does create more noise, vibration and harshness on chip sealed roads and also makes it slightly less economic.

Specifications:

Body type 4-door sedan

Drive Rear-wheel-drive Engine type V6

Engine capacity 3604cc

Max power 210kW/6,350 rpm Max torque 340Nm/4,650 rpm Fuel consumption 9.4/9.7L/100km C02 emission 219/227g/km 0 to 100km/h 7 secs Airbags Seven ESP Yes Air conditioning Dual climate

Satellite navigation No Cargo cover No Boot capacity 462 litres

Wheel type 18/20-inch alloy Spare tyre Space saver

Executive Cars

Smooth operator Robert Barry enjoys a sybaritic week with the all-new entry-level Lexus GS250.

In the all-new GS car Lexus has embraced its Japanese values wholeheartedly in design, quality and execution.

Priced at $102,900, the entry level executive GS250 sedan is no better representative of this. Indeed its list of standard specification would put a few European marques to shame.

For comparison, the F Sport version of the GS250 is priced at $108,900. The GS350 starts at $117,900 with the F Sport variant priced at $125,900. The hybrid GS450h enters the market at $134,900 with the GS450h F Sport priced at $142,900.

The all new exterior design of the GS Line showcases the new face of Lexus which is called the spindle grille, and the car is far sharper and sleeker and has a much more aggressive on-road stance than the previous model generation.

An all-new interior design offers increased space and comfort for all occupants. Front seat passengers benefit from an

increase in legroom and up to 30mm of extra headroom than before. Rear seat knee room has improved by 20mm and headroom increased by 25mm.

Luggage space has increased by 23 percent for GS250.

Our completely standard GS250 test car arrived with the light grey leather interior which was pleasantly accented by the dark glossy inlays on the doors and dashboard. This was further complemented by the metallic trim around the stereo, steering wheel and door handles. The cabin feels spacious, luxurious and the instrumentation is clear and well laid out.

We particularly liked the centrally mounted analogue clock which added a much classier touch than a standard digital readout.

According to Lexus product planning general manager Neeraj Lala, the specification strategy for the new GS car line can be summed up in one word - loaded.

“The new Lexus GS will

compete head-on in the luxury mid-sized sedan market, by offering greater specification as standard, at competitive if not class-leading prices,” he says.

Standard features on every GS model include a blind spot monitor (BSM), 18-inch alloy wheels with tyre pressure monitor, eight sensor parking assistance sonar, reverse camera and bi-xenon headlights with adaptive front lighting system.

Other no-cost features include the next generation Lexus remote touch, metallic self-healing paint (which is available on certain colours), drive mode select (with Eco, Normal and Sport modes), rain sensing wipers, hard disc drive satellite navigation, four door smart entry, advanced Bluetooth with audio streaming and Lexus’ unique vehicle dynamics integrated management (VDIM) vehicle stability system.

All GS line models have paddle gear shift control, cruise control, leather trimmed interior, front fog lights, LED daytime running lights, dual zone climate control air conditioning, ventilated and heated front seats, 10-way electric seats with driver’s memory, plus self-dimming and heated exterior mirrors.

Underneath the bonnet of the GS250 is a 2.5-litre V6 engine which delivers 154kW of power and 253Nm of torque while accelerating to 100km/h in 8.8 seconds. While that may be slower than the more powerful GS350 and GS450h models, it doesn’t feel so from

the driver’s seat.

Unusually for a Lexus the turbine-like engine note from the 2.5-Litre V6 is delightful and by selecting sport mode, this will further enhance the cars responsiveness by matching the raising engine revs with even slicker changes from the sixspeed automatic gearbox.

This is because revisions to the inlet tract and exhaust piping of the engine induce an almost guttural tone that sounds far more sporting than that of the smaller Lexus IS250 which has a similar engine.

Thankfully the softer American style ride quality of the previous generation GS has also been consigned to the bin. The new GS250 has a much tauter suspension that gives almost BMW-like handling but still manages to offer a compliant and comfortable ride quality over the worst of New Zealand roads.

The electric power steering also manages to feel somewhat more crisp and connected than other systems we have encountered in luxury cars.

When cruising down the motorway at 100km/h the cabin is as serene an environment as you would expect from Lexus, as there’s very little wind noise or tyre roar and you can enjoy the crisp quality of the standard Mark Levinson audio system which is iPod and Bluetooth compatible.

Even though it’s the entry point car, there’s something quite special about driving a GS250 because it is unashamedly Japanese yet it offers a driving experience that is on par with the best of the worlds premium luxury mid-size sedans. It deserves to do well.

Specifications:

Body type 4-door sedan

Drive Rear-wheel-drive Engine type V6

Engine capacity 3604cc

Max power 210kW/6,350 rpm Max torque 340Nm/4,650 rpm Fuel consumption 9.4/9.7L/100km C02 emission 219/227g/km 0 to 100km/h 7secs Airbags Seven ESP Yes Air conditioning Dual climate

Satellite navigation No Cargo cover No

Boot capacity 462 litres Wheel type 18/20-inch alloy Spare tyre Space saver

New Zealand Company Vehicle Octcber 2012 51

Executive Cars

Volvo XC90 10 years on We take a look at the latest Volvo XC90, now fitted with a 2.4-litre turbo-diesel engine. John Oxley reports Just 10 years ago, when Peter Horbury penned the smooth lines of the Volvo XC90, and launched the Swedish company into the realms of tall SUVs and 7-seater capacity, no-one would have considered putting a 2.4-litre engine under its bonnet.

The original design concept for the XC90 called for at least a six-cylinder engine, and at best a V8. It was to be the quintessential urban off-roader - luxurious, lusty and strong.

As Horbury said at the time “masculine but not macho, muscular but not aggressive”.

I remember when the XC90 was first launched, and it impressed with the superb build quality, the great ride and handling for such a tall vehicle, and it displayed a fair off-road ability for a 4x4 without low range gearing.

Later I had the opportunity to dice with camels across the dunes outside Dubai in a V8 XC90, an experience that saw locals joining in with their highly-painted Nissan Patrols as we bounced and jarred over their ruts.

Fast forward to August 2012, and the latest version of the XC90, from a sheet metal viewpoint, with the exception

of minor tweaks and changes, pretty much how it was 10 years ago.

Yes, it’s got a more modern face, and new lights, and different alloys. There are LED daytime running lights, full colour-coding, metallic-looking “skid plates” front and rear (though I don’t think they’d be much use off-road), new LED lights at the rear, and new lower door mouldings.

Our test car was the R-Design D5, which means it has a sports suspension to compensate for the roly-poly feeling in hard cornering, and fancy 5-spoke 19inch wheels with low profile tyres.

And not a lot has been done to the inside for 2012. Yes, there’s very upmarket and tasteful brushed aluminium trim, white lighting over the blue-faced instrument dials, and a new 3-spoke leather trimmed steering wheel which has an excellent chunky feel to it. There are also bits of R-Design trim which, quite frankly, I found a bit silly.

But climb up into the driver’s seat and you remember what it is you like most about the XC90.

It’s solid. The doors close with a clunk, and once inside there’s an ambience of peace and refinement.

52 New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012

Both front seats adjust electrically, and once you’ve achieved the right position you’re totally ensconced in comfort. Not the swaddling of a soft sofa, but of a properly designed car seat that supports all the right places – including stopping you sliding sideways under hard cornering.

Overall visibility is excellent, but we were disappointed with the pop-up camera/sat-nav that slides up out of the centre of the dashboard. Problem is, it’s slightly off-set towards the rear, so it’s hard to see from the driver’s seat. And it’s got no surround or binnacle, so sometimes the sun catches it and blanks out the display.

There’s no special tricks to start the XC90 – it’s got a normal key with a built-in remote – but once started it’s remarkable just how quiet and refined that 5-cylinder inline turbo-diesel is. And it’s lusty, with 147kW and 420Nm of torque, exceptional from such a small capacity.

The plus is that maximum torque is available from as low as 1,900rpm. There is some turbo lag, but not enough to cause problems, especially if you always remember you’re

hauling along in a 2-ton plus vehicle.

The other plus is that nice throaty growl from the 5-cylinder motor. That’s provided, of course, you’re not using the superb sound system to the full.

Another great thing about the XCV90 is its ability to cram in all the family and still have some space left thanks to the three rows of seats.

And, of course, it’s absolutely loaded with kit, both luxury and safety, as you’d expect from any self-respecting Volvo!

So…after 10 years, is the XC90 still worth its place under the sun?

The answer is a resounding “Yes”.

Has Chinese ownership dulled its appeal, or merely firmly cemented its financial foundations? The answer to that is, of course, the grist of crystal balls. But I’ll give it the thumbs up.

Specifications Body type 5-door wagon Drive Four-wheel-drive Engine type 5-cylinder turbo-diesel Engine capacity 2,400cc Max power 147kW/3,900rpm Max torque 420Nm/,1,900-2,800rpm Fuel consumption 8.3L/100km C02 emission 219g/km 0 to 100km/h 10.3secs Front suspension Coil-over strut independent Rear suspension Multi-link independent Roof rack Rails ABS brakes Yes Air bags Six ESP Yes Air conditioning Climate Lap/diagonal belts Seven Satellite navigation Yes Electric seats Yes Burglar alarm Yes Panic button No Boot release Yes Cargo cover Yes Boot capacity 249/1,837 litres Wheel type Alloy Spare tyre Repair kit

Corporate IDENTITY

Technology in vehicle graphics In part two of our corporate identity feature, Robert Barry summarises the latest digital technology available to fleet users and how it is best utilised on vehicles.

Traditionally vehicle graphics consisted of cut vinyl lettering or pictures in solid colours layered upon each other to give a design, along with pin-striping or hand-painted flourishes for trucks, says NZ Sign Solutions director Karen Browne.

Now she says the options start with magnetic signs for the side doors through to digital print vinyl, and to totally wrapping a car and using materials that imitate architectural substrates such as carbon fibre, brushed metal, ultra chrome, matte and fluoro - offering an authentic look at minimal cost.

The material used is always an important aspect of a vehicle wrap, and film must be able to conform into and around the various channels and corrugations on different types of vehicles. The film essentially becomes part of the vehicle itself. The 3M 1080, Arlon and Orajet 3951RA are highly developed conformable cast vinyl in both solid graphics and digital media, to enable them to

become a part of the vehicle’s skin. Both types of films can be incorporated into a wrap design.

Cast films are a premium product with excellent durability and conformability characteristics.

The term “cast” refers to the manufacturing process of this type of vinyl. When wrapping with a cast film, NZ Sign Solutions can guarantee that the graphics will not only conform to the vehicle but also stay there, which is the problem with using non-cast material.

Using a process called post heating, NZ Sign Solutions can erase the “memory” of a cast vinyl product and reset it to the shape of the vehicle.

It is transformed into a new state that is locked into place, whereas cheaper vinyls will shrink and pull back. Cast vinyl will not, and will look better for longer.

Rapid Air (RA) technology, which allows air to easily escape from under the wrap, makes the

NZ Sign Solutions own branded BMW vehicle

job quicker, easier and more cost effective, giving a bubble-free finish every time. Included in the RA technology is also a pressure-sensitive adhesive that allows the applicator to lay the

wrap on a vehicle and make sure the alignment is perfect before wrapping to give a perfect finish.

New technology has also increased the ease of removal.

With leased vehicles being swapped over every few years, it’s important that vehicle

A swatch of the latest 3M 1080 film colours New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012 53

Corporate IDENTITY wraps can be removed easily without damaging the vehicle.

This means when the wrap needs to be removed, it will come off with ease and leave little glue residue behind, so as long as it is within the material requirements of three to five years depending on material.

Each manufacturer has different technology with regards to how well the material stretches and holds, depending on vehicle difficulty. With 3M, the film is removable for up to five years with heat, and solid graphics can last up to seven years. The Orajet range of vinyls with RA are specially designed to make this process easy.

When it comes to wrapping a vehicle in a cool colour to help it stand out from the crowd, here’s a brief lowdown to the latest on-trend: Matte – For a while Matte has been the colour of choice, but it is about to be knocked from its perch with an array of amazing new effect vinyls just landed.

Ford New Zealand revealed its new limited edition AB35 Ford Fiesta which has been designed by the All Blacks to celebrate Ford’s 17 year sponsorship of the team. The Fiestas are custom wrapped in 3M Series 1080 Matte Black film, which was voted “coolest new product” at this year’s International Sign Association expo in Nevada.

The latest Matte colours were released by 3M in September; a Matte version of its Metallic Blue, a Matte Orange, and in contrast a Satin Black.

Carbon Fibre - It’s not a printed carbon pattern, as the film is a physical weave and has an embossed finish resembling true carbon fibre, which reflects light and changes the highlights of the pattern depending on the viewing angle.

A Speedy Signs branded vehicle for Sentinel Homes.

It is popular in New Zealand with car enthusiasts, and with people who want a carbon fibre look without the price tag. The multilayer casted PVC film has been particularly developed for surface refinement in car design with highest requirements for durability and solidity.

Colours range from black to greys to silver to white, and the latest is transparent. Wrap a car in a lime green colour, add transparent carbon to it, and the result is lime green carbon fibre. Or print out a vehicle wrap, laminate it with transparent carbon, and now it becomes a carbon fibre digital print.

NZ Sign Solutions director Keith Browne has incorporated the carbon fibre on his fleet vehicles and since then has had many enquiries about its application. Installed on bonnets, boots, spoilers, side view mirrors, and interior plastic, Carbon Fibre provides that sporty aftermarket look to any car.

VW Van using Oracal Chrome lettering from NZ Sign Solutions 54 New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012

A sample of 3M cast carbon fibre film Brushed Metal - Brushed coloured vinyls add the custom brushed steel look to a vehicle and are available in a variety of great colours including steel, graphite, tin and silver grey.

Ultraleaf Chrome - This durable, five-year cast film is a cost-effective alternative to 24-carat gold or silver leaf film. Oracal 383 features a smooth, printable surface and a three-dimensional visual texture. The durable dimensional stability of this film makes it ideal for lettering, marking and decoration of vehicles, windows and signs requiring longer-term outdoor durability.

Fluoro – Another innovative technology is fluorescent vinyl used by the ambulance service and police, but these eye-catching graphics have gone mainstream being incorporated into logos to make them stand out. These are also particularly useful for those fleets who operate 24 hour services such as transport and deliveries and require high impact visibility at night and in daylight too.

Metallic - 3M leads the way with a metallic red which is sure to be a headturner when used as a full wrap. Red is the epitome of fast, expensive and elite. All of these films have excellent resistance

Corporate IDENTITY to water, dirt, impacts, wear, abrasion and mould. It is amongst the technologically most advanced and prestigious products offered by 3M. Chameleon - The colour-changing vinyl which has a rainbow effect transforming from purple to blue to green to red and yellow as people walk past, notice it and absorb the effect. A word of warning, pricewise it’s not for the faint-hearted.

Crocodile - This pattern is awesome for detailing a vehicle then wrapping an office, bar, or an entire theme wall.

With a great texture and feel to it some absolutely amazing things can be done with Crocodile.

Honeycomb and Dune - The newest arrivals and unique to the Oracal range are two very striking patterns that are hard to explain but look great and will really add

Speedy Signs rebrands itself Speedy Signs has undertaken a major rebranding exercise across its 23 locations in New Zealand.

Speedy Signs group CEO Grant Archibald says that the company is committed to expanding the business and the nationwide rebranding also enables the group to showcase new products and services to customers.

“If we are going to retain and attract new customers it is imperative that our own outlets serve as modern showrooms featuring a variety of new samples to highlight our capabilities.”

Archibald says that electronic digital signage is becoming a growing part of the sign industry and some clients now integrate this technology along with their visual communications.

“The lowering cost of LCD and Plasma screens has allowed many businesses to utilise the technology in conjunction with printed signage, customers can learn more about the products through the interactive experience.

“We add value to our customers' businesses by taking an all round approach to customers' marketing needs. Through good advice, the right products for the job and a strong understanding of signage communication, we want to help our customers grow their businesses,” says Archibald.

Speedy Signs Manukau owner/manager Bruce Hopkins has been offering general signage as well as vehicle signage to fleet operators since opening his store in 2000.

Bruce says the challenge with vehicle graphics is to ensure the vehicle fleets are branded consistently with company logos and graphics even though the vehicles are different shapes and sizes.

“In no other medium other than a vehicle do you have the challenges of the left and right hand side, so when creating a design its important for the client to see both sides of the

an extra element to signage. HoneyComb 975 with its embossed small honeycomb pattern and Dune 975 which features a self embossed zebra-like pattern for an ultra cool look. Both are available in Black.

More companies are turning to customisation to have head-turning vehicles – just featuring the wheels or wheel arches in a contrast texture is often all it takes says NZ Sign Solutions.

vehicle as well as the front and the rear in the design phase, to ensure that directional brand logos are correctly placed and utilise the correct gradient,” he says.

According to Bruce, less is more when it comes to vehicle wraps. “Don’t put too much information on the design and don’t overcomplicate the image. Keep it fresh if possible by changing out a panel where possible, think of the vehicle as a mobile billboard for your business.”

Care and maintenance of vehicle graphics DO:  Wash applied vinyl graphics with a blend of mild car wash detergent and clean water.  Test any cleaning solution on a small section of the vinyl graphic before using.  Always read the warning labels on car care products for proper safety instructions.  Once you’ve washed the vehicle with a soapy water blend, rinse with clean water.  Either let the vehicle are dry or dry off with a microfiber cloth.

DON’T  Allow fuels to stay in contact with the vinyl for extended periods of time. Clean all spills as soon as possible.  Apply carnauba-based wax over vinyl graphics.  Use mechanical brush washing. Brushes can cause vinyl graphics to chip or peel around the edges or scratch the surface.

They can also cause the graphic to fade, and dull the appearance of the over-laminate.

Vehicle Graphics Vehicle signage is the perfect way to promote your business and make a lasting impression, working for you 24/7. Even when parked, vehicle signage can be building awareness and generating business. Discuss this cost-effective and powerful form of business advertising with us. We can provide signage options that can easily be removed when the vehicle is sold or returned after lease.

Speedy Signs is established in 30 countries worldwide with branches located throughout New Zealand.

speedysigns.co.nz 0800 SPEEDY (77 33 39)

New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012 55

Better at the bottom Damien O’Carroll enjoyed his time with our long-term test Toyota Camry GL. In fact he surprised himself.

In terms of a company car it is not very often that the phrase “I prefer the lowest spec one” is used. But in the case of the Toyota Camry, it is one that I actually found myself using, and with remarkable regularity too.

You see, the upper-spec Atara models are aimed at the spot where the last generation Sportivo Camry left off, which unfortunately translates this time round to “unnecessarily harsh ride” as the suspension firms up in an attempt to be all sporty.

But while it is a surprisingly decent steer, the Camry isn’t a sports car, and it shouldn’t really try to be. Which is why the base model GL shines.

The suspension set-up on the GL is far more compliant than on the

Atara models, making it a far more attractive prospect for day-to-day commuting, and to be completely honest, more enjoyable on the winding stuff too.

This is because, while the extra compliance may mean slightly more body roll and, ultimately, understeer in the GL, it skips around less over rougher surfaces, and is far less sensitive to mid-corner bumps. The softer base car may not turn-in quite as sharply as the sportier Atara, but it tracks through the corner far better.

But in terms of day-to-day living, this is where the GL really stars. The cloth upholstery is more comfortable than the Atara’s leather (and less eyewateringly coloured too) and the

56 New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012

rest of the car is just as good.

The 133kW/231Nm 2.5-litre engine is smooth and strong, with a good mid-range punch to it, while the new 6-speed automatic transmission is the perfect partner for the big 4-cylinder engine. Around town both are smooth and quiet, while the engine’s strong midrange makes it ideal for moving

through traffic on small throttle openings.

The transmission is best left to its own devices though, because the manual mode is next to useless. The car simply ignores your inputs most of the time, shifting whenever its computer brain tells it too. Changing up or down manually is usually only rewarded with the gear display

ROADREPORT Specifications:

Body type Drive Engine type Engine capacity Max power Max torque Fuel consumption C02 emission 0 to 100km/h Airbags ESP Air conditioning Satellite navigation Cargo cover Boot capacity Wheel type Spare tyre

Four-door sedan Front-wheel drive Four-cylinder petrol 2,494cc 133kW/6000rpm 231Nm/4100rpm 7.8L/100km 183g/km N/A Seven Yes Manual No N/A 515 litres 16-inch alloy Space saver

Estimated running costs 36 Months 60000km Price

$44,990 WOF $180 Fuel $10,330 Registration $1,386 Servicing to 60k: $1,159 Total Tyre cost: $1,236 Residual (30%) $13,497 Indicative final figure $45,784 The running cost model is used for illustrative and indicative purposes only. Adrenalin Publishing Limited accepts no responsibility or liability should any costs indicated in the model change from those published. All residual values are based on a calculated 30 percent as a financial instrument and are not the expected or indicative resale values.

changing on the dash, rather than an actual shift.

Still, the engine and transmission work well together anyway, so leaving them to get on with it is the best option anyway.

Given that the Camry isn’t a particularly large car, the amount of usable interior space available is as impressive as it is surprising. Rear legroom is particularly impressive, while the adjustability of the driving position is also a point of particular note.

Equipment levels are high for a baseline fleet-oriented model.

On the safety front the Camry gets VSC electronic stability system, with ABS, electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist plus no fewer than seven airbags – driver and passenger front, side, front/ rear curtain shield, and one to protect the driver’s knee.

All enough to give the Camry a five-star Ancap crash test rating.

There’s also electric power steering, seatbelt warning indicator for all occupants (remembering that the driver can be fined if young passengers aren’t wearing their belts), a new seat design with greater height adjustment, and the steering column has been repositioned to

give greater tilt range – the last two making it easy to get the perfect driving position.

The supplementary controls are nicely placed, and additional features include a multi information display for the radio, heating, range etc, as well as an Eco indicator – which didn’t seem to tell us much at all.

The audio system is much improved, with a new CD/ radio system, plus Bluetooth handsfree and audio streaming capabilities, AUX and USB input with iPod connectivity, audio controls mounted on the

steering wheel, and six speakers (including two tweeters).

Travelling long distances can be quite dehydrating, but the Camry makes it possible to stash bottles in all four doors, as well as there being map pockets in both front doors. There are also two 12V power outlets, enabling you to simultaneously recharge your phone while powering up your iPod. There are 16-inch alloy wheels as standard, and seven colours are available, and there’s a full-size spare wheel. The exterior is really the only place

the GL is left wanting when compared to the Atara, as it is, well, inescapably dull. Not unattractive in any way, just unremarkable.

A good level of spec for a base model, a strong engine and transmission, a great ride and decent handling all mark the entry level Camry as one to seriously consider. The Atara may be more attractive and the hybrid may carry far more gear, but in terms of value-for-money and day-to-day ease of use, there is little that can better the Camry GL.

New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012 57

ROADREPORT

No mid-life crisis for Civic sedan Damien O’Carroll isn’t middle-aged, but the Honda Civic is.

Does it feel like it? Let him explain!

The Honda Civic is 40 years old, meaning that it has officially entered middle age. Given that it has, erm, increased considerably in size in those forty years it would be easy to say that there probably isn’t a mid-life crisis in the works for the Civic - it seems to have settled rather happily into its middle-agedness.

When the latest generation of the Civic was launched a while back, it simply confirmed that fact by being very similar to the last one, but just a bit more conservative.

The new Civic is considerably cheaper than the model it replaces, which is a very good thing indeed. Unfortunately it shows in a few key areas, most noticeably, the interior.

Unpleasant colour combinations of browns and creams aside, the interior is cheap. Hard plastics are everywhere, most of them cursed with horrid textures as well. While there were no squeaks or rattles present in our test car, the hardness and low quality of some of the plastics mean it is probably just a matter of time.

Colours, textures and quality aside, the interior is actually nicely designed and laid out. All the various controls are sensibly placed and easy to use, and the seats are comfortable.

On the road the Civic is also a mixed bag. The 5-speed manual transmission is definitely missing a cog, but has a decent shift action and is generally a pleasant thing

58 New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012

to use. The 1.8-litre petrol engine punches out a decent 104kW of power, but only a relatively thin 174Nm of torque, meaning you get to appreciate the gearbox’s decent shift action on a regular basis.

The Civic has a generally comfortable and pliant ride that does have a tendency to get a bit brittle over rougher surfaces, while its handling is fairly well entrenched in the “don’t bother” category.

Throw it into a corner and it will roll towards a distinct preference for understeer before the stability control steps in and shuts everything down. That’s it really. It doesn’t really do “fun,” so don’t bother it with such silliness.

Slow in, fast out would be the best way to drive a Civic briskly, but the engine’s meagre torque figure means that really doesn’t happen either. The engine is pleasantly quiet and smooth though, and Honda’s claim of 6.8L/100km for the combined cycle is easily achievable with little real effort to be particularly frugal.

On the outside the Civic is attractive enough, although it has moved towards a slightly blander look when compared to the last generation’s more aggressive stance and angular face. It is still a handsome little car though, and one that looks more expensive than it actually is.

At $32,900 the 1.8S manual Civic does possess a lot of positive traits for the money. It is a good looking little car that is comfortable and nicely designed. It is well

specced for the money and will no doubt be a reliable, thoroughly inoffensive mode of transport. Just not a particularly dynamic or interesting one.

Specifications: Body type Drive Engine type Engine capacity Max power Max torque Fuel consumption C02 emission 0 to 100km/h Air bags ESP Air conditioning Satellite navigation Cargo cover Boot capacity Wheel type Spare tyre

Four-door sedan Front-wheel drive Four-cylinder petrol 1,799cc 104kW/6500rpm 174Nm/4300rpm 6.8L/100km 161g/km

N/A Six Yes Manual No N/a 440 litres 15-inch steel Space saver

Estimated running costs 36 Months 60000km Price

$34,900 WOF $180 Fuel $8,880 Registration $1,293 Servicing to 60k: $1,755 Total Tyre cost: $1,416 Residual (30%) $10,470 $37,954 Indicative final figure The running cost model is used for illustrative and indicative purposes only. Adrenalin Publishing Limited accepts no responsibility or liability should any costs indicated in the model change from those published. All residual values are based on a calculated 30 percent as a financial instrument and are not the expected or indicative resale values.

ROADREPORT

Civic’s younger brother?

As different as chalk and cheese – that’s what Damien O’Carroll discovered when he jumped into the Civic Euro hatch after driving the sedan.

Upon approaching, climbing into and driving a Honda Civic Euro hatch for the first time, you find yourself slightly confused. Surely, you think to yourself, this can’t be in any way related to the other car to carry the Civic name? That dull, uninspiring sedan with the awful interior and conservative looks?

I mean, this Civic is sleek and interesting looking. It has a high quality interior with great materials and build quality. It is smooth, refined and actually fun to throw around a bit. What is going on here? Are there two companies called Honda that build a car called the Civic?

Well, yes and no, because while the Civic comes directly to you from the USA, the Euro hatch comes from, you guessed it, Europe. Which means the two Civics are worlds apart.

Where the sedan is inoffensive and dull, the hatch is edgy, interesting and, something that hasn’t been said of a Honda on these shores for some time, exciting.

On the outside the hatch impresses with its aggressive nose and heavily-styled rear, which could easily drop into the “over-styled” folder, but manages neatly not to. The hidden rear door handles are a nice touch and, unlike most other cars with this styling touch, almost manages to convince you that the Euro is a three-door hatch. Almost.

Inside is a startling improvement over its

sedan cousin, with a more sedate approach than the exterior, but a hugely high quality one. Soft-touch materials are everywhere, and the feeling of quality is undeniable. The seats are excellent, being both comfortable and supportive, and the instrument and control layout is sensible and nice to use.

Despite having the same slightly underwhelming 104kW 1.8-litre engine as the sedan, the Euro feels far more tractable around the mid-range. It is equally smooth and even quieter in the hatch and the 5-speed automatic is a slick shifter.

It is noticeably lacking a sixth cog though, as there is an obvious hole between second and third and, to a degree third and fourth. Nothing a good 6-speeder wouldn’t fix.

Apart from looks and quality, the single biggest area where the Euro improves on the sedan is on the road. Both ride and handling are far superior to the three-box equivalent, and the Euro feels exciting and alive out on the road, despite lacking any real performance.

The ride is firm, but not too firm, meaning it feels taught and ready for action, but never harsh or unpleasant. Which in turn translates into surprisingly enjoyable handling. The body is well controlled and turn-in is sharp and crisp. The steering is beautifully weighted and, while lacking slightly in feel, is nicely accurate.

Throw the Euro into a corner and, quite

unlike the sedan, it flicks its nose in crisply and confidently. The tail tracks predictably and the far higher momentum you can carry through a corner means you don’t feel the engine’s lack of torque on the way out.

At $38, 900, the Euro L is the top of the hatch range, well-equipped, sexy and great to drive, the Civic Euro. A winner.

Specifications: Body type Drive Engine type Engine capacity Max power Max torque Fuel consumption C02 emission 0 to 100km/h Air bags ESP Air conditioning Satellite navigation Cargo cover Boot capacity Wheel type Spare tyre

Five-door hatch Front-wheel drive Four-cylinder petrol 1,799cc 104kW/6500rpm 174Nm/4300rpm 6.5L/100km 155g/km 8.8 seconds

6 Yes Dual zone climate No Yes 487 litres 17-inch alloy Space saver

Estimated running costs 36 Months 60000km Price $38,900 WOF $180 Fuel $8,350 Registration $1,293 Servicing to 60k: $1,789 $1,372 Total Tyre cost: Residual (30%) $11,670 Indicative final figure $40,214 The running cost model is used for illustrative and indicative purposes only. Adrenalin Publishing Limited accepts no responsibility or liability should any costs indicated in the model change from those published. All residual values are based on a calculated 30 percent as a financial instrument and are not the expected or indicative resale values.

New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012 59

ROADREPORT Specifications: Body type Drive Engine type Engine capacity Max power Max torque Fuel consumption C02 emission 0 to 100km/h Airbags ESP Air conditioning Satellite navigation Cargo cover Boot capacity Wheel type Spare tyre

Estimated running costs 36 months, 60000km Price

$47,990 WOF $180 Fuel $11,070 Registration $1,293 Servicing to 60k: $1,094 Total Tyre cost: $1,224 Residual (30%) $14,397 Indicative final figure $48,455

Wagons ho!

Robert Barry is impressed with the latest iteration of the 2-litre Toyota Avensis Tourer.

Not so long ago in New Zealand the midsize 2-litre station wagon was the backbone of our fleet as it played double duty, being used as a tool of trade vehicle during the week and as family transport at the weekend.

Manufacturers such as Toyota, Ford, Mitsubishi, Holden, Mazda and even Honda had a 2-litre station wagon in their model range before the advent of the SUV and crossovers almost killed off this market segment. But Ford, Mazda and Toyota continue to provide a proper 2-litre station wagon, and have recently been joined in the segment by Hyundai!

Toyota NZ launched the 2012 model year Avensis Tourer in April, with a price tag that was some $6,400 less than the previous model thanks to the favourable exchange rate gain with the UK. At the time general manager Steve Pragnell said that at $47,990 he expected the Avensis to dominate the medium wagon segment. It hasn’t quite done that, but nevertheless it’s a car that deserves a second look.

This third generation of Avensis Tourer was

60 New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012

Five-door wagon Front-wheel-drive Inline four-cylinder 1,987cc 112kW/6,200 rpm 196Nm/4,000 rpm 7.1L/100km 165g/km N/A

Seven Yes Climate No Yes 543/1609L 16-inch alloy Full size steel

designed by Toyota’s ED2 studio in France and it is built at the Burnaston plant in Derbyshire, UK. For the New Zealand market we receive only one Tourer variant in one specification, which is an 112kW 2-litre with a 7-speed S CVT automatic, which is also exported to Japan from the UK. There are seven airbags including a driver’s knee bag, and ESC and traction control are also fitted.

The Avensis Tourer is equipped with an electronic parking brake and electric power steering which provides good feel and feedback to the driver.

Styling changes to the exterior of the Avensis Tourer included restyled upper and lower front grilles, moving the fog lamps to the extremities of the bumper, incorporating LED daytime running lights into the headlamps and using LED technology in the rear combination lamps and fog lamps.

Inside the cabin, the centre console was redesigned with a new silver finish, as were the seats (to give greater driver comfort over longer journeys), and higher quality upholstery fabric and dual stitching added greater ambience.

We took the Avensis Tourer on a trip from Auckland to Whangarei which proved a comfortable and easy drive, and we returned an average fuel consumption of 7.9L/100km.

Toyota quotes 7.1L/100km in the combined cycle, but we can attribute the extra consumption to the amount of people and cargo we had on board.

Luggage capacity is prodigious. There’s 543 litres of space available with the rear seats in place and 1,609 litres with them folded flat.

The running cost model is used for illustrative and indicative purposes only. Adrenalin Publishing Limited accepts no responsibility or liability should any costs indicated in the model change from those published. All residual values are based on a calculated 30 percent as a financial instrument and are not the expected or indicative resale values.

We discovered that a single mattress will also easily fit inside the cargo area, and thanks to the rails mounted in the boot floor, items can also be secured easily.

The nearly 5-metre long Avensis Tourer has a kerb weight of 1,560kg, which seems quite hefty for a 2-litre engine to haul around, but we were pleasantly surprised by the car’s sprightly performance and the refinement of the CVT transmission – which also incorporates a Sport mode.

Some CVT equipped cars tend to be loud and raucous under acceleration, but not the Avensis Tourer. Its levels of noise, vibration and harshness on the road are minimal, and the car proved to be a very good choice for a commercial traveler.

We attribute the excellent ride quality and competent handling to the European inspired suspension and 16-inch alloy wheel and tyre package.

All in all, the Avensis Tourer provides a safe and dependable tool of trade vehicle for a fleet with the rock solid reliability and residuals one expects from the Toyota brand.

ROADREPORT

French dressing Robert Barry savours the French flavour of the new all-wheeldrive Peugeot 4008 Feline.

Small high-riding crossovers are quickly becoming the flavour du jour of the fleet market, hence Peugeot has launched its 4008 into a highly competitive segment.

There are three variants of 4008, the front-wheel-drive Active ($37,990) and Allure ($39,990), and the aptly named Feline all-wheel-drive at $45,990.

In case you didn’t realise, just like its larger sibling the 4007, the 4008 Feline as tested shares much of its architecture with a Mitsubishi, namely the ASX. This is the second collaboration of its type between PSA Peugeot Citroen Group and Mitsubishi Motors, which sees the 4008 and the Citroen C4 Aircross built alongside the ASX at the Mizushima plant in Japan.

Externally the 4008 shares the same roof and door sheet metal of the ASX, but every other panel is redesigned to give the Peugeot a more European look and feel, and from both the front and the rear of the vehicle the result is certainly a great deal prettier to look at.

The Feline rides on 18-inch alloy wheels which are complemented by the sports

chrome treatment on the door sills.

Inside the 4008 Feline Peugeot has fitted a different binnacle over the main instruments, as well as a Peugeot steering wheel with remote controls, but sadly the rest of the dashboard and interior betrays its Mitsubishi origins - its almost completely identical to the ASX. However, this is the first Peugeot I have driven that has the wiper stalk and indicator stalk on the proper side of the steering wheel for right-hand-drive markets. Front and rear fog lamps are fitted to the 4008 as well as the all important LED daytime running lamps which are becoming a mandatory feature demanded on many fleet vehicles.

On another positive side of the ledger the well specified 4008 Feline receives leather upholstery and the two front seats also get electric adjustment as well as two heat settings for those chilly mornings when you don’t want to be frozen to the core by the seat.

The specification also includes Bluetooth connectivity, climate control air conditioning, a 6-speaker audio system with USB and aux jack input, air conditioned glove box, trip computer, multifunction display, tinted rear windows and a ski flap between

the rear seats.

With a full-size spare which is also a bonus for fleet users, the boot space inside the 4008 is 384 litres with the seats up and 1,219 litres when folded down.

On the road the 4008 does benefit hugely from an increased amount of sound insulation, a retuned suspension courtesy of the Peugeot engineers, and an increase in track over its ASX cousin and the results are very good. The 4008 is noticeably nicer to travel in than the Mitsubishi, being much quieter, with reduced levels of noise, vibration and harshness. It also corners with more poise and confidence.

Sadly, the revised noise insulation cannot mask the inadequacies of the Mitsubishi 2-litre engine and CVT automatic transmission combination, which is a bit loud and coarse when under full acceleration, and only economical when driven particularly gently.

Peugeot quotes 8.1L/100km for the allwheel-drive Feline, but we struggled to stay under 10L/100km during our test week which consisted mainly of short hops and urban commuting. No doubt a few longer trips would have brought better results.

Specifications: Body type Drive Engine type Engine capacity Max power Max torque Fuel consumption C02 emission 0 to 100km/h Airbags ESP Air conditioning Satellite navigation Cargo cover Boot capacity Wheel type Spare tyre

5-door hatchback All-wheel-drive Inline 4-cylinder 1997cc 110kW/6,000 rpm 197Nm/4,200 rpm 8.1l/100km 192g/km 10.9 secs

Seven Yes Climate Optional Yes 384/1219L 18-inch alloy Full-size spare

Estimated running costs 36 months, 60000km Price

$45,900 WOF $180 Fuel $10,730 Registration $1,293 Service Plan $799 Total Tyre cost: $1,500 Residual (30%) $13,770 Indicative final figure $46,632 The running cost model is used for illustrative and indicative purposes only. Adrenalin Publishing Limited accepts no responsibility or liability should any costs indicated in the model change from those published. All residual values are based on a calculated 30 percent as a financial instrument and are not the expected or indicative resale values.

New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012 61

ROADREPORT

CX-5 is just right When is the right time to enter a new market segment?

When you’re sure you can do it right – and Mazda seems to have done just that with its recently-launched CX-5 crossover, says John Oxley We’re often called upon to give our opinions to friends on which vehicle to buy, which is best, and so on. Most of the time we try to wriggle out of giving a definitive answer, because so much depends on personal preferences, personal needs, and, of course, the bank balance.

However, there was no wriggle room when my brother-in-law called me from Oz. He needed an answer, and he needed it in a hurry.

Now, I understand why it had to be NOW, and the heat wasn’t coming from him. But fortunately I also had just finished testing a Mazda CX-5, and since that was on his list, it took me only a few minutes to give him an answer. Buy it.

The reason is simple. Sometimes a car comes along that just seems so right for the times, so fit for purpose, that it’s hard to turn your back on it.

The CX-5 is like that. It doesn’t matter which model you choose, whether it’s the entry level GLX 2-litre petrol front-wheel drive, or the “all-bells-and-whistles” turbodiesel 2.2 Limited AWD, the core values remain the same.

Previously, we’ve never had the benefit of a small SUV from Mazda. The Tribute was bigger, and so is the CX-7.

But there’s definitely a strong market for a compact SUV in the marketplace – witness the plethora from Toyota, Kia, Hyundai, Nissan,

62 New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012

Volkswagen, Mitsubishi and Peugeot.

Reason for this is that these vehicles are such a useful size, with a decent load space, comfortable sit-up seating, and compact overall length that makes parking easier.

Plus they’re just that bit higher than the mainstream traffic, offering a better feeling of security.

On top of that, they’re being made more and more car-like and less off-roady, improving ride, handling, and fuel economy.

Indeed, at the launch of the CX-5, Japanese programme manager Hideki Tanaka was at pains to point out that the CX-5 is to be only used as a car, not off-road!

Our test car was the top-of-the-range Limited 2.2 diesel – Mazda NZ’s first passenger diesel – and it comes with all the bells and whistles.

You sort of slide across into the driver’s seat on the CX-5, with an almost perfect hip height that doesn’t require bending or climbing.

Once in place it’s a typically SUV driving position, and the leather-covered seats are comfortable and supportive, with 8-way electric adjustment for the driver, and heating on both front seats. There’s also steering column adjustment for reach and height, so it’s easy to get comfortable.

Visibility is par for the sector, with some visibility problems when reversing from a 45 degree park, but the in-built reversing camera

takes care of that.

On the road there’s much better input from the steering than on your average electric system, and the car feels well planted and secure. Handling is much, much better than your average SUV, while the extra surefootedness of all-wheel-drive is a big help in the wet.

In addition, there’s a full 5-star line-up of safety kit, including ESP and especially Mazda’s new blind spot monitoring system, which warns you when a car is overtaking you in your blind spot , and another system which warns if you’re wandering out of your lane.

The Limited is also rich on comfort and driver features, including dual climate control aircon, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, cruise control, audio unit with Bluetooth streaming, nine Bose speakers, a single frontloader CD, USB and AUX input, and steering wheel controls.

Satnav is also standard – and it’s a touch screen TomTom unit, plus there’s a multiinformation display. There’s a power tilt and slide sunroof, front foglights, and 19-inch alloy wheels.

Finally, there’s proximity key unlocking, with a pushbutton starter.

However, the CX-5 is not just about comfort and ride quality – it’s about economy, and as such showcases Mazda’s latest SkyActiveDrive technology, with a 6-speed automatic gearbox with stop-start function.

Specifications: Body type 5-door wagon

Drive All-wheel-drive Engine type 4-cyl turbo-diesel Engine capacity 2,191cc Max power 129kW/4,500rpm M a x torque 420Nm/2,000rpm F u e l consumption 5.7L/100km

C02 emission 149g/km 0 to 100km/h N/A Front suspension Independent, struts R e a r suspension Independent, multi-link Roof rack No ABS brakes Yes Airbags Six Stability programme Yes Air conditioning Dual climate Lap/diagonal belts Five Satellite navigation Yes Electric seats Yes Burglar alarm Yes Panic button No Boot release Yes Cargo cover Yes Boot capacity 403/1,560 litres Wheel type Alloy

Spare tyre Temporary

Through Life Cost Report 36 Months 60,000km Price

$55,990.00 WOF $180.00 Fuel $8,660.00 Registration $1,682.76

Servicing to 60k: $0.00 Total Tyre cost: $1,436.00 Residual (30%) $16,797.00 Indicative final figure $51,151.76 The Through Life Cost Model is used for illustrative and indicative purposes only. FleetWorks and Adrenalin Publishing Limited accept no responsibility or liability should any costs indicated in the Through Life Cost Model change from those published. All residual values are based on an average of values achieved through Turners Auctions Limited sales for the previous 3 months from issue date.

ROADREPORT

Mixed bag from Great Wall Damien O’Carroll has a look at the new turbo-diesel version of the Chinese Great Wall wagon – and finds it a value-formoney package.

There is a certain familiarity to the exterior of the X200. It’s not a family resemblance though, because the X200 looks like nothing else in the New Zealand lineup.Then it hits you - it looks familiar because it’s a lot like the nose of a Mazda CX-7 grafted onto the rear end of a Mitsubishi Outlander.

As a result of this “merger” the X200 comes off as handsome enough, but in a slightly generic, anonymous way. This is not a bad thing though, as Chinese design seems to veer wildly between total ripoffs and horrific original bug-eyed monstrosities. The X200 can tick up a win here as, while it has more than a few obvious “nods” to other cars, they work well and it looks good.

Build quality is a mixed bag. Panel gaps are generally admirably good, but there are some howlers. And don’t reach too far up under the likes of wheel arches and panel edges, because that is where more than a few sharp edges and corners lurk. Paint quality is generally good though, and you have to admire the speed with which Great Wall has improved.

Inside lurks another wonderland of highs and lows, admittedly with more in the high department than the low. These include the surprisingly decent stereo with a USB port, an auxiliary input and MP3 playback, a leatherwrapped steering wheel with audio and cruise controls, climate air conditioning and a trip computer. None of which, to be completely honest, were expected in the X200.

The leather-wrapped seats will either thrill or appall, depending on your attitude to hardness or the state of your back. Unless you particularly enjoy park benches and/or have a bad back, the pews in the X200 will not be particularly comfortable. They are very firm, and the “leather” feels very artificial. Or maybe the cows are waterproof in China.

Still, the seating position is excellent, and you do grow accustomed to the hard seats, but they offer no lateral support through corners. So combined with the slippery “leather” you do slide around a bit on a winding road!

Which is probably not something you would really want to do anyway, as the X200 harks back to SUVs of yore, with plenty of body roll and a fairly lively rear end.

The 105kW/310Nm 2-litre diesel engine is a strong enough performer, once up and running that is. Mid-range torque is strong, meaning that passing and open road acceleration is more than acceptable, but there is precious little low down in the rev range.

Off the line the X200 is sluggish, with the torque and power coming in with a big rush once the turbo has spooled up. This is annoying around town, but not a huge issue.

The automatic transmission is slick and smooth enough, swapping ratios with little drama.

All up, the X200 is a more than acceptable package. At $34,990 it represents excellent value for money. Build quality is more than

acceptable, the level of spec is impressive, and though there are some areas where it comes across as a bit cheap, it is after all, quite cheap!

Specifications: Body type 5-door wagon Drive 4WD Engine type Four-cylinder diesel Engine capacity 1996cc Max power 105kW/4000rpm Max torque 310Nm/2800rpm Fuel consumption 9.2L/100km N/A C02 emission 0 to 100km/h N/A Airbags Two ESP Yes Air conditioning Manual Satellite navigation No Cargo cover Yes Boot capacity N/A Wheel type 17 inch alloy Spare tyre Full size steel Estimated running costs 36 Months 60,000km Price

$34,990 WOF $180 Fuel $11,610 Registration $1,776 Servicing to 60k: $2,232 Total Tyre cost: $1,624 $10,470 Residual (30%) $41,942 Indicative final figure The running cost model is used for illustrative and indicative purposes only. Adrenalin Publishing Limited accepts no responsibility or liability should any costs indicated in the model change from those published. All residual values are based on a calculated 30 percent as a financial instrument and are not the expected or indicative resale values.

New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012 63

ROADREPORT

A pair of Cruzes The Holden Cruze hatch is a far cry from the original Cruze sedan that so many motoring writers panned when it was first launched.

We recently had a pair on long-term test, and came away satisfied that the Aussie engineers have got them right. John Oxley reports.

In the old days when the British motor industry was strong and diverse, it wasn’t unknown for some of the mainstream players to launch a vehicle before it was really ready, and then do development work as they sold more cars, fixing them via service bulletins as they went along.

British Leyland was a prime culprit, but it wasn’t unknown for a Ford or Vauxhall model to get a quick update after mere months – such as a brand-new dashboard – after the motoring media had poured scorn on it.

Those who can’t remember the days of a strong British motor industry (and very strong and influential Press), and have grown up in the IT/Internet era will, however, still be able to relate to it, because that’s the way Microsoft operates – put out the product, fix the glitches later. Fortunately, it’s become so automated that most people don’t realise it’s happening, until they get a message on their computer to say software has been updated.

So does it still happen in the motor industry? Well it’s not as prevalent as it used to be, but I did notice that the Series II Holden Commodore was a lot better than the Series 1, and similarly with the Series II Cruze sedan and the Captiva II. As far as the first Cruze sedan was concerned, there were criticisms of ride quality, handling, and engine performance. The ride and handling were definitely improved in Cruze II, and the new range of direct injection turbocharged 1.4-litre petrol engines have swept Cruze performance to new levels – though you can still buy the normally aspirated1.8 if you want to – or if you don’t want to spend the $2K extra for the 1.4i.

The CD Don’t be fooled by the figures.

These days you can’t judge engine output by capacity, and the days of “there’s no substitute for cubic inches” is long gone - the 1.4 is actually the more powerful of the engines, and more economical

64 New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012

too. It produces 103kW of power and 200Nm of torque, compared to the 1.8’s 104kW and 176Nm (and lower in the rev range too).

The larger torque figure is the key, and endows the 1.4 with a lot more flexibility.

The other key point here is that if you choose to buy manual, the CD only comes with five cogs, while the 1.4 gets six.

The Holden Cruze Hatch received a lot more Australian input from day one than the Cruze sedan, and as a result ride quality is very good, while

handling is definitely up there, if not with the best, at least towards the top.

In addition the 1.4 models uses a performance-tuned Watts linkage rear suspension and electric power steering which improve agility, unlike the compound crank axle rear suspension on the 1.8 petrol and 2-litre diesel models.

On the road performance is enhanced by the 6-speed automatic gearbox which ensures the engine is always “on song”, although as mentioned, with

ROADREPORT

200Nm of torque from 1,850rpm, and on a flat plateau right up to 4,900rpm, there’s lots of pulling power without the need for much gear changing.

What’s more, there’s a manual sequential option which enables sporting driving if the roads are tight and traffic-free!

The driving position is OK – except for the lack of a driver’s foot rest – and space utilisation back and front is good for this size vehicle, with a rear load space that offers a 413-litres capacity which expands to 1,254-litres when the standard 60/40 split rear seat backs are folded flat.

Boot space reduces to 325litres, with multiple storage compartments built under the

boot floor to provide ninelitres of extra space, with the no-cost option full-size steel spare specified.

The CD is well equipped, and standard features include Bluetooth connectivity with voice recognition for certain functions, including dial, redial, save and add-voice tags.

There’s also air conditioning, cruise control, a trip computer, front and rear power windows, six-way adjustable driver and front passenger seats, automatic lights

with programmable “follow-me home” headlight functionality, and remote keyless entry.

Add to that steering wheelmounted remote audio and cruise controls, coupled with an advanced six-speaker multimedia audio system with AM/FM radio, in-dash MP3 compatible CD

player, and USB input with iPod compatibility.

However, only steel wheels are fitted, with full-width wheel covers.

The SRi Whereas the CD may be classed as the Cinderella of the Cruze hatch line-up, the SRi is the beautiful princess, as befits a price difference of $3,500.

And it’s all quality stuff, not just bling, with nice-looking 17-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels, a

sports body kit with deep front spoiler, inset fog lamps, and extensions on the rear bumper.

There are also chrome insets on the body-coloured door handles.

The interior steps up, too.

First up you notice the leather touches – a leather-rimmed steering wheel instead of the urethane one on the CD, and leather trim on the gear knob and on the seat bolsters.

The instrument panel is uplifted by chrome surrounds on the binnacles, and you can choose a digital readout on the speedo in addition to the analogue dial.

And there are bits and pieces you might not spot immediately, such as an extra power point (for rear seat passengers), and illuminated vanity mirrors for both driver and front passenger.

You can also option rear park sensors in this model, although we’d prefer this to be standard.

The one area where the two variants cars don’t differ is in fuel economy, with combined consumption of 6.9L/100km, half a litre per 100km better than the 1.8.

Which would we choose? Well, it all depends on your budget, obviously, but we DID like the SRi a lot more than the CD, and it’s got enough kit in it to offer a reasonable step-down option from a large car without

company vehicle users feeling they have been short-changed.

Specifications: Body type 5-door hatch

Drive Front wheels Engine type 4-cyl petrol turbo Engine capacity 1,364cc Max power 103kW/4,900rpm Max torque 200/1,850-4,900rpm Fuel consumption 6.9L/100km C02 emission 158g/km Front suspension McPherson struts Rear suspension Watts linkage Roof rack No ABS brakes Yes Airbags Six Stability programme ESP Air conditioning Yes Lap/diagonal belts Five Satellite navigation No Electric seats No Burglar alarm Yes Panic button No Boot release Yes Cargo cover Yes Boot capacity 413/1,254 litres Wheel type Alloy or steel Spare tyre No-cost option

Through Life Cost Report 36 Months 60000km Cruze CD Hatch

Price

WOF Fuel Registration Servicing to 60k: Total Tyre cost: Residual (30%) Indicative final figure

$34,400 $180 $9,990 $1,293 $1,147 $1,364 $10,320 $38,054

Cruze SRi Hatch

Price $37,900 WOF $180 Fuel $9,990 Registration $1,293 Servicing to 60k: $1,147 Total Tyre cost: $1,364.

Residual (30%) $11,370 Indicative final figure $40,504

The Through Life Cost Model is used for illustrative and indicative purposes only.

FleetWorks and Adrenalin Publishing Limited accept no responsibility or liability should any costs indicated in the Through Life Cost Model change from those published. All residual values are based on an average of values achieved through Turners Auctions Limited sales for the previous 3 months from issue date.

New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012 65

ROADREPORT

Looking around the X-Trail Damien O’Carroll spent some time with the latest Nissan X-Trail – and found it still has the power to surprise…

Nissan has had a bit of a rush of blood to the head when it comes to the venerable X-Trail as of late. First a brilliant value-formoney FWD entry level model appears, and now a new feature has been added to the top of the range Ti petrol and TL diesel models.

Around View is similar to technology used by BMW and Toyota for a while now. It utilises cameras mounted in the nose, tail and wing mirrors of the car and, through all manner of computerised trickery, uses them to present the driver with

a bird’s eye view of the car and its surrounds on the small screen mounted in the stereo head unit.

With the push of a button the view can be switched to either a combination of the front camera and passenger side camera, or the rear camera and passenger side camera, depending on whether the transmission is in drive or reverse.

If you really can’t park, this is a blessing. It is also surprisingly handy if you can park, to be completely honest, and the safety aspects go without saying.

If you manage to back into or

66 New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012

over something or someone with Around View active, you probably shouldn’t be allowed to operate a motor vehicle.

Another place where Around View is surprisingly useful is off the road. While the X-Trail isn’t exactly meant to be a deep mud bush-basher in the same way the similarly camera-equipped Toyota Land Cruiser is, it does possess quite a bit of off-road ability. Squeezing between trees and past rocks and stumps, and so on is made a far less fraught affair with the cameras active.

The system deactivates at around 10km/h, which is probably wise, given that it probably wouldn’t be a good thing to be watching while you are whisking along the motorway.

Criticisms? The screen is a bit small and low-res, which limits its usefulness in darker areas, and the way the cameras are mounted leave them vulnerable to splashes, rendering them useless unless you hop out and give them a wipe.

Neither of these criticisms really affects Around View in its

intended purpose though – as a parking/safety aid -– which it does remarkably well indeed. An absolutely necessary feature?

Not at all, but it is a surprisingly useful one that you will find yourself using more and more all the time.

It adds yet another compelling feature to the X-Trail’s arsenal of good points. It is still a handsome, comfortable, practical SUV that is packed with spec. The petrol is still cursed with CVT, but spending a few grand more will score the excellent diesel with its equally excellent 6-speed automatic transmission.

Still, at $49,990, the petrol Ti represents great value for money and, provided you can put up with the groaning transmission, is a compelling package indeed.

Specifications: Body type Drive Engine type Engine capacity Max power Max torque Fuel consumption C02 emission 0 to 100km/h Airbags ESP Air conditioning Satellite navigation Cargo cover Boot capacity Wheel type Spare tyre

5-door wagon

Four-wheel drive Four-cylinder petrol 2488cc 125kW/5200rpm 226Nm/4400rpm 9.1L/100km 209g/km N/a Six Yes Climate Yes Yes 603 litres 18-inch alloy Space saver

Estimated running costs 36 Months 60000km $38,990 Price

WOF $180 Fuel $12,480 Registration $1,293 Servicing to 60k: $1,650 Total Tyre cost: $1,124 Residual (30%) $11,697 Indicative final figure $44,020 The running cost model is used for illustrative and indicative purposes only. Adrenalin Publishing Limited accepts no responsibility or liability should any costs indicated in the model change from those published. All residual values are based on a calculated 30 percent as a financial instrument and are not the expected or indicative resale values.

ROADREPORT

Benz enters new segment Mercedes-Benz has stepped into a different segment with the new B200, presenting a sporty-looking hatchback that enters new territory for the German giant. John Oxley reports.

One of the most interesting aspects of the new Mercedes B200 is that it could easily be mistaken for a low-slung SUV. And that’s what’s essentially happened, for the previous model’s tall boy stance has been reduced by the simple expedient of getting rid of the under-floor “sandwich” construction that marked the old B-Class and it’s a-Class sibling.

The purpose of the sandwich construction was to allow the engine to be pushed under the floor of the vehicle in a crash without hurting occupants.

Now, though, Mercedes has developed a more traditional platform (for use in both models) and this means it needs a longer nose to give the necessary crash protection. This front end is very sporty and macho, and follows the new corporate look.

It also helps to provide a very aerodynamic shape, with a Cd of only 0.26 – which is very low!

The face is jewelled, there are distinctive character lines through the side profile and the tail is neatly bustled. It’s a good-looking car, and it’s also quite versatile.

Three engines are on offer in New Zealand - a 1.6-litre

turbocharged four-cylinder which uses the latest direct injection and variable valve timing on both the intake and exhaust cams along with an intercooled turbocharger, and is available in two states of tune, producing either 90kW/200Nm or 115kW/250Nm. The pick of the bunch, though, is the one that powered our B200 CDI, a new 1.8-litre turbodiesel which offers decent power and torque (100kW/300Nm) with combined fuel consumption a very miserly 4.7L/100km.

The B-200 represents a huge improvement in terms of interior fit and finish over the previous model, as well as offering more space.

Comfort levels are high, and our test car was nicely equipped, with Artico man-made (fake) leather upholstery, black ash wood trim, high-gloss chrome highlights on the air vents, shift selector, centre console controller and light switch.

And we really liked the door and centre console armrests with topstitching, as well as the leather-covered steering wheel.

However, what we hated is the

“dumbing down” of the driver experience by placing a flimsy gear change switch to the right of the steering column. This indicates reverse, neutral, and drive, and it’s the most stupidlypositioned lever I’ve ever encountered. It’s far too close to the steering column, which makes it far too easy to select accidentally since it’s where the indicators SHOULD be on a right-hand drive car, and risk an accident as you suddenly lose drive while turning a corner.

A simple crank to the lever would take it away from the driver’s hand (it’s not as if you need to use it often on a journey) and out of the way.

However, the upside is that there ARE paddles on the steering wheel which allow you to change gears manually.

At the same time, while the shift quality of the 7-speed double clutch gearbox was usually pretty quick and smooth under rolling acceleration, occasionally we found that it would get confused when given full throttle from a standing start and would refuse to change up smoothly and precisely. The electronics seemed hesitant and

could not decide when to change the gears.

We also found the secondary ride was disappointing in rural areas, the suspension failing to dampen corrugations on less-than-perfect roads, of which there were many on the launch drive.

In its quest for sporty handling Mercedes-Benz has forgotten that New Zealand buyers travel on roads that are not constructed of smooth bitumen. While the frontdriven B-Class hangs on beautifully around corners, the rattle-yourfillings quality of ride from the suspension and run-flat tyres became annoying at times.

Overall the standard suspension in all three cars is relatively sporty for such a vehicle, and unless you really have a need for a firmer suspension package that lowers the vehicle aesthetically then we would recommend that the Night Package, as fitted on our test vehicle, option be avoided altogether.

However, inside it’s an efficient package, with plenty of headroom and legroom in the back.

Specifications: Body type Drive Engine type Engine capacity Max power Max torque Fuel consumption C02 emission 0 to 100km/h Front suspension Rear suspension Roof rack ABS brakes Air bags ESP Air conditioning Lap/diagonal belts Satellite navigation Electric seats Burglar alarm Panic button Boot release Cargo cover Boot capacity Wheel type Spare tyre

5-door hatchback Front wheels 4-cyl turbodiesel 1,796cc 100kW/3,600-4,400rpm 300Nm/1,600-3,000rpm 4.7L/100km 122g/km 9.3 secs McPherson strut Multi-link independent No Yes Nine Yes Climate Five Yes No Yes Yes Yes Yes 488 litres Alloy Runflat tyres

Through Life Cost Report 36 Months 60000km Price

WOF Fuel Registration Servicing to 60k: Total Tyre cost: Residual (30%) Indicative final figure

$56,990.00 $180.00 $8,210.00 $1,293.18 $0.00 $1,460.00 $13,497.00 $54,636.18

The Through Life Cost Model is used for illustrative and indicative purposes only. FleetWorks and Adrenalin Publishing Limited accept no responsibility or liability should any costs indicated in the Through Life Cost Model change from those published. All residual values are based on an average of values achieved through Turners Auctions Limited sales for the previous 3 months from issue date.

New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012 67

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68 New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2012

ABARTH 500

Essesse Essesse convertible 695 Tributo Ferrari

1400 1400 1400

3dr Hbk 3dr Hbk 3dr Hbk

1.4 1.4 MultiairTCT 1.4 Multiair Sport TCT 1.4 Multiair QV

1400 1400 1400 1400

3dr Hbk 36990 3dr Hbk 3dr Hbk 3dr Hbk 42990

Giulietta Multiair Giulietta QV

1400 2400

4dr Sed 4dr Sed

2.2 JTS Petrol TI 1.8 Turbo Ti 2.4 JTD Diesel TI 3.2 Q4 Petrol TI 2.4 Sportwagon Diesel TI 3.2 Q4 Sportwagon Petrol

2200 1800 2400 3200 2400 3200

4dr Sed 59990 4dr Sed 62990 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 5dr Wag 5dr Wag

Alfa Romeo Mito

Giulietta 159

42990 46990 79990

49990 54990

Audi A1 Hatch

BMW 1 Series

116i 118i 118d 123d SE Coupe 135i Coupe M Sport 1 M Coupe 118i ES Convertible 39990 118i SE Convertible 42990 118d Cabriolet SE 123d Cabriolet SE 135i Cabriolet M Sport

62990 69990 84990 72990 87990

39800 42800 47500

1.4 TFSI S tronic 1.4 TFSI Sport S tronic 1.8 TFSI Sport S tronic 2.0 TDI S tronic 2.0 TDI Sport S tronic S3 Quattro S tronic RS3 Quattro S tronic 1.8 TFSI Cabriolet

47400 54900 61400 54900 61400 83700 99900 61800

A4 Sedan

2.0 TDI 2.0 TFSI 2.7 TDI 2.0 TFSI quattro 3.0 TDI quattro S4 3.0 TFSI quattro

A4 Avant

1400 1400 1800 2000 2000 2000 2000 1800 2000 2000 2700 2000 3200 3000

5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 3dr Hbk 3dr Hbk 3dr Cab 4dr Sed 4dr Sed

4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed

1600 1600 1800 2000 3000 3000 2000 2000 2000 2000 3000

5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 56500 2dr Cpe 2dr Cpe 2dr Cpe 2dr Cab 2dr Cab 2dr Cab 2dr Cab 2dr Cab

320i 320d 320i Sport/Modern/Luxury 320d Sport/Modern/Luxury 328i 328i Sport/Modern/Luxury 335i 335i Sport/Modern/Luxury 335d SE M3 Sedan M3 Sedan HP 320d Touring ES 320d Touring SE 320d Touring Sport 335d Touring SE 335d Touring Sport 335i Coupe SE 330d Coupe SE M3 Coupe 325i Convertible SE 335i Convertible SE M3 Convertible

2000 2000 2000 2000 2000 2000 3000 3000 3000 4000 4000 2000 2000 2000 3000 3000 3000 3000 4000 2500 3000 4000

4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 158600 4dr Sed 168600 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 2drCpe 2drCpe 2dr Cpe 175800 2drCon 2drCon 2dr Con 186000

520d SE 528i SE 535i SE 535d SE 550i SE 520d Touring 530d GT

2000 2500 3000 3000 4400 2000 3000

4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 5dr Wag

5dr Sed

1800 2000 2000 2000

5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag

2000 3000

5dr Wag 5dr Wag

xDrive30d SE xDrive40d Sport xDrive50i SE

3000 3000 4600

5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag

xDrive40d SE xDrive50i SE

3000 4400

5dr Wag 5dr Wag

3 Series

1.4 TSFI S tronic 1400 3Dr Hbk 1.4 TSFI Sport S tronic 1400 3Dr Hbk 1.4 TSFI Sport Plus S tronic 1400 3Dr Hbk

A3 Sportback

CC Body Man Auto

71900 71900 81900 86900 107400 121400

5 Series Sedan & Touring

X1

2.0 TDI 2.0 TFSI 2.7 TDI 2.0 TFSI quattro 3.0 TDI quattro S4 3.0 TFSI quattro allroad 2.0 TFSI quattro

2000 2000 2700 2000 3000 3000 2000

5dr Wag 75900 sDrive18d 5dr Wag 75900 sDrive20d 5dr Wag 85900 xDrive20d 5dr Wag 90900 XDrive23d 5dr Wag 111400 5dr Wag 125400 X3 5dr Wag 89900 xDrive20d xDrive30d

3.0 TDI quattro S tronic S5 3.0 TFSI quattro RS5 4.2 FSI quattro 2.0 TFSI quattro Sportback 3.0 TDI quattro Sportback S5 3.0 TFSI Sportback 2.0 TFSI Cabriolet S5 3.0 TFSI Cabriolet

3000 3000 4200 2000 3000 3000 2000 3000

2dr Cpe 2dr Cpe 2dr Cpe 5dr Cpe 5dr Cpe 5dr Cpe 2dr Cab 2dr Cab

2.0 TFSI Coupe 2.0T TTS quattro Coupe 2.5T TTRS quattro Coupe

2000 2000 2500

2dr Cpe 89900 1.3 hatch 2dr Cpe 114500 J3 2dr Cpe 137900 144300 1.6 hatch

1300

5dr Hat

12990

1600

5dr Hat

16990

2000

5dr Wag

21990

3300

5dr Wag

3600 3000 3600 3000 3600 3000 6400

4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed

1600

5dr Hbk

1600 1600 1600

3dr Hbk 3dr Hbk 3dr Hbk 39990

A5

TT

A6

118500 133400 171900 94200 112500 134900 111600 135700

X5

X6

ChERY J1

J11

3.0 TDI quattro 150kW 3.0 TDI quattro 180kW 3.0 TFSI quattro 3.0 TDI quattro Avant

3000 3000 3000 3000

4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 5dr Wag

3.0 TDI quattro S'back 3.0 TFSI quattro S'back

3000 3000

4dr Sed 4dr Sed

2.0 TDi quattro

2000

2.0 TDi quattro 3.0 TDi quattro

2000 3000

3.0 TDI quattro 4.2 TDI quattro 6.0 TDI quattro

3000 4200 6000

5dr SUV 120900 Citroën 5dr SUV 148500 C3 5dr SUV 255500 1.6 VTR

3.0 TDI quattro 3.0 TDI quattro LWB 4.2 TDI quattro 4.2 TDI quattro LWB

3000 3000 4200 4200

4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed

A7 Q3 Q5 Q7

A8

118700 2.0 SUV 113700 133700 Chrysler 138700 Grand Voyager Grand Voyager R/T Limited

143700 300C 143700 300 Limited 3.6 V6 300 Limited 3.0 V6 diesel 5dr SUV 70900 300 C 3.6 V6 300 C 3.0 CRD 300 C Luxury 3.6 V6 5dr SUV 87900 300 C Luxury 3.0 CRD 5dr SUV 108900 6.4 SRT-8

DS3

184700 1.6 VTi EGS 70kW 198700 DSTYLE 1.6 VTi 215200 DSPORT 1.6 VTi 229200 C4

CC Body Man Auto

1.6 VTi 88kW 1600 1.6 Turbo EGS 1600 1600 49700 1.6 HDI EGS Exclusive 2000 55500 2.0 Grand Picasso HDI 56500 DS4 1600 72600 1.6 So Chic EGS 115kW 2000 90800 2.0 Sport Chic 147kW 111200 1.6 So Chic HDI EGS Exclusive 1600 60800 C5 66800 2.0 Turbo Comfort 115kW 2000 69600 2.0 HDi Comfort 120kW 2000 80600 2.0 HDi Exclusive 120kW 2000 98800 3.0 HDi Exclusive 177kW 3000 2.0 HDI Comfort Tourer 2000 74300 C6 74700 3.0 HDi Exclusive 177kW 3000 77300 77800 Daihatsu 85900 Sirion 87900 1.3 1300 106900 1.5 SX 1500 108900 112700 Terios 1500 165800 1.5 4WD 1500 175800 1.5 SX 4WD 74700 DODGE 85300 Caliber 91300 2.0 SXT 2000 116700 Journey 123300 2.7 SXT 2700 134800 2.7 R/T 2700 120700 2000 2.0 R/T CRDi 182200 120200 Nitro 3700 146200 3.7 SE 3700 193200 3.7 SXT

5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Wag

29990 39990 39990 44990

5dr Hbk 44990 5dr Hbk 48990 46990 5dr Hbk 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 5dr Wag

46990 49990 62990 74990 52990

4dr Cpe

POA

5dr Hbk 18990 5dr Hbk

19990 23490

5dr Wag 26240 5dr Wag

27250 29590

5dr Wag

26990

5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag

39990 45990 54990 35900 51990

Fiat

112400 500 130400 1.4 Lounge 149000 1.4 Convertible 151500 Ford 179400 117500 Fiesta 156900 1.6 Econetic diesel 1.6 LX Hatch 1.6 LX diesel 62800 1.6 Zetec hatch 69700 1.6 AB35hatch 73700 79700 Focus 1.6 Ambiente 2.0 Trend 89600 2.0 Trend diesel 110300 2.0 Sport 2.0 Titanium 133600 2.0 Titanium sedan 148000 Mondeo 170100 2.3 LX Hatch 2.3 LX Wagon 156000 2.0 LX Diesel Hatch 184600 2.0 LX Diesel Wagon 2.0 Zetec Diesel Hatch 2.0 Zetec Diesel Wagon 2.0 Titanium Diesel 2.0 Zetec Ecoboost Hatch 2.0 Titanium Ecoboost Hat.

1400 1400

3dr Hbk 3dr Cpe

26990 29990

1600 1600 1600 1600 1600

5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk

30990 23990 26990 25990 25990

1600 2000 2000 2000 2000 2000

5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Sed

35490 38490 41490 44490 49490 49490

2300 2300 2000 2000 2000 2000 2000 2000 2000

5dr Hbk 5dr Wag 5dr Hbk 5dr Wag 5dr Hbk 5dr Wag 5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk

42990 44990 45900 47490 49990 51490 54990 47990 52990

23990 4.0 RWD TX 2.7 AWD TX Diesel 4.0 RWD TS 2.7 RWD TS Diesel 81990 2.7 AWD TS Diesel 4.0 Titanium RWD 57990 2.7 Titanium AWD diesel 62990 FG Falcon 62990 XT Sedan 67990 XR6 67990 XR6 73990 G6E 87990 G6E Turbo 4.0 XR6 AB

4000 2700 4000 2700 2700 4000 2700

5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag

49990 59990 54990 59990 64990 59990 69900

4000 4000 4000 4000 4000 4000

4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed

48490 53990 58990 58990 63990 56990

27990 GS F6-E 29990 GT 37990 GT-P GT-E

4000 4000 5400 5400 5400

4dr Sed 73990 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 86990 4dr Sed 95990 4dr Sed

73990 89990 86990 95990 95990

Territory

FG FPV

New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2011 69

29490 32490

25490 27490

NEWPRICES

CC Body Man Auto

NEWPRICES CC Body Man Auto Great Wall Motors X200

CC Body Man Auto Insight

S SX 34990 E N

1300 1300 1300 1300

5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk

SR Sport Mugen

1300 1300 1300

3dr Hbk 3dr Hbk 3dr Hbk

Euro S Euro L Euro Tourer L

2400 2400 2400

4dr Sed 43700 4dr Sed 5dr Wag

X200 4x4 SUV diesel X200 4x4 SUV diesel auto

2000 2000

5dr Wag 31990 5dr Wag

X240 4x4 SUV X2004x4 diesel SUV

2400 2000

5dr Wag 5dr Wag

28990 31990

1.6 5 dr hatch

1600

5dr Hbk

22990

1.2 CD 1.2 CDX

1200 1200

3dr Hbk 3dr Hbk

16990 19490

1.8 CD sedan 1.8 CD hatch 1.4 CD turbo sedan 1.4 CD turbo hatch 2.0 CD diesel sedan 2.0 CD diesel hatch 1.8 CDX sedan 1.8 CDX hatch 1.4L SRi turbo hatch 1.4 SRi-V turbo sedan 1.4 SRi-V turbo hatch

1800 1800 1400 1400 2000 2000 1800 1800 1400 1400 1400

4dr Sed 30400 5dr Hbk 30900 4dr Sed 4dr Hbk 4dr Sed 4dr Hbk 5dr Sed 5dr Hbk 4dr Hbk 36400 4dr Sed 38900 4dr Hbk 39400

30400 32400 33900 34400 36900 37400 31900 34500 37900 40400 40900

S Sport

2000 2400

5dr Wag 5dr Wag

V6 LN V6 LN Mugen V6 LN Sport

3500 3500 3500

4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed

S

2400

5dr Wag

2.4L Petrol Captiva 2WD 2.2L Diesel 2WD

2400 2200

5dr Wag 38490 5dr Wag

39990 44990

i30

X240

CR-Z

Holden Barina Barina Spark Cruze

Captiva 5

24990

Accord Euro

CR-V

Accord V6

Odyssey

Hyundai i20

1.4 GL 1.4

5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk

25490 25990

2400 2400

5dr Wag 5dr Wag

43990 43990

3700 3700 2800

5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag

48990 53990 58990

4000 4000 4000 2800 4000

2dr Wag 2dr Wag

4dr Wag 4dr Wag

4dr Wag

51990 55990 56990 61990 60990

3600 3000 3600 5700 3000 5700 3000 6100

5dr Wag 64990 5dr Wag 69990 5dr Wag 79990 5dr Wag 86990 5dr Wag 91990 5dr Wag 91990 5dr Wag 96990 5dr Wag 106990

1200 1200

5dr Hbk 18590 5dr Hbk

18990 20990

1400 1400 1400

5dr Hbk 22990 5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk

23490 24990 25790

1600

5dr Hbk

30490

2.0 LX hatch 2.0 SX hatch 2.0 LX sedan 2.0 SX sedan 2.0 SX Koup

2000 2000 2000 2000 2000

4dr Hbk 4dr Hbk 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 2dr Cpe

30490 34990 30490 34990 34990

2.4LX GDi 35990 2.4 Ltd GDi 39990 41990 Sportage 2.0 Urban LX FWD 2.0 Urban EX FWD 39990 2.4 Petrol EX AWD 44990 2.4 Petrol LTD AWD 2.0R Diesel EX AWD 42990 2.0R Diesel LTD AWD 45490 Sorento R 49990 2.4 Urban FWD 7 seat 52990 2.4 LX AWD 7 seat

2400 2400

4dr Sed 4dr Sed

46990 50990

2000 2000 2400 2400 2000 2000

5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag

33990 37990 42990 46990 47990 51990

5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 52990 5dr Wag 5dr Wag

46990 49490 49990 57490 64990

5dr Wag 5dr Wag

45990 51990

47000

25990 26990

1600 1600 1600 1600 1600

5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 5dr Sed

1800 1800 1800

4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed

1600 1600

4dr Hat 4dr Sed

2000 2400 2400 2000

4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4 dr Sed 4 dr Sed

2.0 wagon

2000

5dr Wag

2.0 2WD 2.4 4WD 2.4 Elite 4WD 2.0 R CRDi 4WD 2.0 R CRDi Elite 4WD

2000 2400 2400 2000 2000

5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag

2400 2400 2.2 Urban FWD 7 seat diesel 2200 44990 2.2 LX AWD 7 seat diesel 2200 2.2 EX AWD 7 seat diesel 2200 40490 2.2 Limited AWD 7 seat dsl 2200 45490 Carnival 49990 2.9 diesel EX 2900 50990 3.8 V6 LTD 3800 54990

i40 wagon

31990 35990 31990 35990 35990

5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag

Clubsport R8 Clubsport R8 Tourer Clubsport Black R8 GTS Senator Signature Grange Maloo R8 Ute

6200 6200 6200 6200 6200 6200 6200

4dr Sed 88990 90290 2.4 5 Seat 5dr Wag 89990 91290 2.2 CRDi 5 seat 4dr Sed 93990 95290 2.4 Elite 7 seat 4dr Sed 101990 104290 2.2 CRDi 7 seat 4dr Sed 106990 106990 3.5 V6 Elite 2WD 7seat 4dr Sed 110990 2.2 CRDi Elite 7 seat 2dr Ute 84990 86290 Jaguar

2400 2200 2400 2200 3500 2200

5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5 dr Wag 5dr Wag

53990 59990 59990 60990 60990 66990

Caprice V6 SIDI Caprice V8 AFM

3600 6000

4dr Sed 4dr Sed

1.3 S 1.5 Sport

1300 1500

5dr Hbk 24700 5dr Hbk

71690 2.2 Luxury 85490 3.0 V6 Luxury 3.0D Luxury 3.0D S Luxury 28500 5.0 V8 Luxury 31200 XFR

2200 3000 3000 3000 5000 4200

4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed

90000 95000 100000 115000 125000 170000

1.5 S 1.5 E 1.5 E Leather

1500 1500 1500

4dr Sed 26900 4dr Sed 4dr Sed

1.8S 1.8S Sport 2.0S IMA petrol/electric

1800 1800 2000 1300

4dr Sed 32900 4dr Sed 35400 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 43500

29500 3.0D Premium Luxury 31900 3.0D Premium Luxury LWB 35200 5.0 V8 Premium Luxury 5.0 V8 Premium Luxury LWB 34900 5.0 V8 Portfolio 37400 5.0 V8 SC Portfolio

3000 3000 5000 5000 5000 5000

4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed

155000 162500 180000 187500 200000 240000

2400 2400

5dr Wag 5dr Wag

honda Jazz City

Civic

Civic Euro hatch

1.8S 1.8L

1800 1800

4dr Hbk 32900 4dr Hbk

ix35

Santa Fe

XF

XJ

38500 46000

Jeep Patriot

2.4 Sport 34900 2.4 Ltd 38900 Compass

70 New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2011

Rio

Cerato

3000 3600 3600 3600 6000 6000 3600 6000

WM Caprice Series II

1.25 LX 1.25 EX

1800 2000 1600 1600

Omega V6 SIDI Omega V6 LPG SV6 SIDI SV6 LPG SS V8 V-series SS V8 V-series Redline Calais V V6 SIDI Calais V8 V-series

HSV E-Series 3

Kia Picanto

1.4 LX hatch 1.4 LX hatch diesel 5dr Hbk 34500 35990 1.4 EX hatch 5dr Hbk 39990 Soul 5dr Hbk 38490 39990 1.6 petrol 5dr Hbk 43990

1.8 Captiva 7 1.8 Elite 2.4 SX 2WD 2400 5dr Wag 41890 1.6 CRDi diesel 3.0 CX V6 AWD 3000 5dr Wag 50890 1.6 CRDi Elite diesel 55890 3.0 LX V6 AWD 3000 5dr Wag Accent 2200 5dr Wag 45890 2.2 SX Diesel 2WD 1.6 hatch 2.2 CX Diesel AWD 2200 5dr Wag 52890 1.6 Elite hatch 2.2 LX Diesel AWD 57890 2200 5dr Wag 1.6 sedan VE Commodore Series II 1.6 Elite sedan Omega V6 SIDI 3000 4dr Sed 49990 1.6 CRDi sedan diesel Omega V6 LPG 3600 4dr Sed 53490 Elantra Berlina V6 SIDI 3000 4dr Sed 57290 1.8 Petrol 3600 4dr Sed 53790 Berlina V6 LPG 1.8 Elite SV6 SIDI 3600 4dr Sed 55490 1.8 Elite Ltd SV6 LPG 3600 4dr Sed 58990 SS V8 6000 4dr Sed 61490 Veloster SS V8 V-series 6000 4dr Sed 71590 1.6 GDI DCT 6-speed SS V8 V-series Redline 6000 4dr Sed 74490 1.6 GDI DCT 6-speed Elite Calais V6 SIDI 3600 4dr Sed 58790 i45 Calais V-seies V6 SIDI 3600 4dr Sed 66790 2.0 Calais V-series V8 6000 4dr Sed 72390 2.4 Caprice LPG 3600 4dr Sed 75190 2.4 Elite 2.4 Elite Limited VE Commodore Sportwagon Series II 52390 55890 57890 61390 74290 77190 68990 74690

1400 1400

44900 47000 49900

CC Body Man Auto

2.4 Ltd 35600 2.4L Limited 36200 Cherokee 38800 3.7L V6 Sport 40000 3.7L V6 Limited 2.8L CRD Limited 44900 Wrangler 47000 Renegade Petrol 49900 Rubicon Renegade Petrol 47200 Renegade Diesel 51000 Rubicon Petrol 53200 Grand Cherokee 3.6 V6 Laredo 39900 3.0 Laredo CRD 48900 3.6 V6 Ltd 5.7 V8 Ltd 56600 3.0 Ltd CRD 67335 5.7 V8 Overland 59670 3.0 OverlandCRD 6.1L V8 SRT-8

Optima

Land Rover Defender

90 Station Wagon SE 110 Station Wag SE

2400 2400

4dr Wag 4dr Wag

2.2D TD4 SE 2.2D TD4 HSE 2.2 SD4 2.2 SD4 HSE

2200 2200 2200 2200

5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag

2.7 TDV6 3.0 SDV6 3.0 SDV6 HSE 5.0 V8 HSE

2700 3000 3000 5000

5dr Wag 92000 5dr Wag 110000 5dr Wag 124000 5dr Wag 159000

TD4 Pure wagon TD4 Dynamic wagon TD4 Prestige wagon SD4 Pure wagon SD4 Dynamic wagon SD4 Prestige wagon Si4 Pure wagon Si4 Dynamic wagon Si4 Prestige wagon

2200 2200 2200 2200 2200 2200 2000 2000 2000

5dr Wag 5drWag 5drWag 5dr Wag 5drWag 5drWag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag

3000 5000

5dr Wag 138000 5dr Wag 138000

Freelander 2

Discovery 4

Evoque

* add $2,000 to these prices for 3-door Coupe models

39990 Range Rover 43990 Sport TDV6 Sport 5.0 V8

68500 71500 66000 66000 69000 81000

79990 96500 98000 86500 103000 104500 86500 103000 104500

Lexus

CT200h hybrid CT200h Ltd hybrid CT200h F Sport hybrid IS250 V6 IS250 V6 Limited IS250 C Convertible IS250 C Convertible Ltd IS350 V6 Limited IS350 V6 sport IS F V8 LS460 GS250 V6 GS250 V6 F Sport GS350 V6 GS350 V6 F Sport GS450h V6 Hybrid GS450h V6 Hybrid F Sport LS600hl Hybrid RX350 V6 RX350 V6 Limited RX450H V6 Hybrid RX450H V6 Hybrid SE RX450H V6 Hybrid Limited LX570 4WD

MazdA Mazda2

1800 1800 1800 2500 2500 2500 2500 3500 3500 5000 4600 2500 2500 3500 3500 3500 3500 5000 3500 3500 3500 3500 3500 5700

CC Body Man Auto

5dr Wag 179000 E250 CGI Executive 5dr Wag 196000 E250 CDI Elegance/Avantg 5dr Wag 226000 E250 CGI Elegance/Avantg E350 Elegance /Avantgarde 5dr Hbk 54500 E350 CDI Elegance/Avantg 5dr Hbk 70600 E500 Elegance/Avantgarde 5dr Hbk 72000 E63 4dr Sed 69990 E250 CDI Coupe 4dr Sed 86990 E350 Coupe 2dr Cpe 95500 E500 Coupe 2dr Cpe 103700 E250 CGI Cabriolet 4dr Sed 101900 E350 Cabriolet 4dr Sed 103300 E500 Cabriolet 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Lim 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag

5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag

1600 1600 1600 1600 1600 1600 1600 1600 1600 1600 1600 1600 1600 1600 1600

3dr Hbk 3dr Hbk 3dr Hbk 3dr Hbk 3dr Hbk 4dr Wgn 4dr Wgn 4dr Wag 5dr Wgn 5dr Wgn 5dr Wgn 5dr Wgn 5dr Wgn 2dr Cab 2dr Cab

29200 36200 40600 44200 54800 41200 45600 49200 45900 49200 51900 54200 57200 46200 54220

Ray Cooper Hatch Cooper D Cooper S Hatch John Cooper Works Clubman Cooper Clubman Cooper D Clubman Cooper S Countryman Cooper Countryman Cooper D Countryman Cooper D AWD Countryman Cooper S Countryman Cooper S AWD Cooper Convertible Cooper S Convertible

GLX Sedan GSX Sedan SP25 Sedan SP25 Limited Sedan GLX Hatch GSX Hatch Skyactiv Hatch SP25 Hatch SP25 Limited Hatch MPS Hatch

2000 2000 2500 2500 2000 2000 2000 2500 2500 2300

4dr Sed

4dr Sed

4dr Sed 4dr Sed 5dr Hbk 31695 5dr Hbk

5dr Hbk

5dr Hbk 39695 5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 49195

32795 35295 41195 44195 32795 35295 37395 MG 41195 MG6 44195 Magnette sedan GT Hatch

2.0 Sedan GLX 2.5 Sedan GSX 2.5 Sedan Limited 2.5 Sport Hatch GSX 2.5 Sport Hatch Limited 2.0 Sport Wagon GLX 2.5 Sport Wagon GSX

2000 2500 2500 2500 2500 2000 2500

4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 5dr Lbk 5dr Lbk 49595 5dr Wag 5dr Wag

41945 43945 50345 45895 51095 43795 45695

2.0L Roadster 2.0L Coupe

2000 2000

2dr Cab 2dr Cpe

51100 55100

Coupe

1300

4dr Cpe

56695

GLX FWD GSX FWD GSX AWD GSX AWD diesel Limited AWD Limited AWD diesel

2000 2000 2000 2200 2000 2200

5dr SUV 5dr SUV 5dr SUV 5dr SUV 5dr SUV 5dr SUV

GSX AWD Limited AWD

2500 2300

5dr SUV 5dr SUV

Limited AWD

3700

5dr SUV

59995

B180 B200 B200 CDI

1600 1600 2000

5d hbk 5d hbk 5d hbk

49990 Nissan 56990 Micra 56900 1.4 ST 1.4 RX

C200 CGI BlueEfficiency C220 CDI BlueEfficiency C250 CDI BlueEfficiency C250 CGI Avantgarde BE C300 CGI BlueEfficiency C300 Avantgarde C350 CDI Avantgarde BE C63 AMG CLC 200K Sport Coupe

1800 1800 1800 1800 3000 3000 3000 6200 1800

4dr Sed 69900 Tiida 4dr Sed 72500 1.8 Hatch ST 4dr Sed 87500 1.8 Sedan ST 4dr Sed 84900 1.8 Sedan /Hatch Ti 4dr Sed 99900 Juke 4dr Sed 101900 1.6 ST 4dr Sed 109900 1.6 Ti 4dr Sed 166900 Wingroad 2dr Cpe 65990 1.8 ST-L CVT

RX-8 CX-5

CX-7

CX-9

Mercedes Benz B Class

C Class

E Class

E250 CDI Executive

2200

Mitsubishi Colt

1.5 LS 1.5 Plus LS

Lancer

2.0 ES sedan 2.0 SEi sedan 2.4 VR-X sedan 2.0 ES hatch 2.0 SEi hatch 57150 2.4 VR-X hatch 56695

ASX

2.0 LS 2WD 2.0 Sport 2WD 39690 2.0 Sport AWD 41390 1.8 Sport diesel 43390 Outlander 46990 2.0 LS 2WD 52990 2.4 LS AWD 55990 2.4 XLS AWD 7 seats 2.4 VRX AWD 7 seats 40195 Challenger 48995 2.5 TD GLS 2.5 TD Exceed 7 seats

4dr Sed 106900

99900 3.5 V6 112900 122900 Pathfinder 122900 2.5 Ti diesel 4WD 150900 Patrol 197990 3.0 ST-L Diesel 4WD

2100 2100 3000 3000 5000 6300

Mini

Pajero

3.2 CDI GLS 3.2 CDI Exceed

Qashqai

1800 1800

ST Ti +2 wagon ST

2000 2000 2000

5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Wag

36700 40800 40800

350L

3500

4dr Sed

52990

Coupe Roadster

3700 3700

2dr Cpe 75700 2dr Cab

77700 82800

Coupe

3800

2dr Cpe 185000

2000 2500 2500 2000 2000

5dr Wag 36990 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag

38990 43990 47990 46990 49990

3500

5dr Wag

65950

2500

5dr Wag

76900

3000

5dr Wag

78300

1400 1600

5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk

25990 27990

1600 1600 1600 2000 1600 2000 2000

2dr Cab 5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Wag

55990 29990 37990 41990 41990 45990 45990

2200 2000

4dr Wag 4dr Wag

54990 57490

2000 2000 2000

4dr Wag 4dr Wag 4dr Wag

37990 39990 45990

1600 1600 1600 2000 2000 2000

5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk

5dr Hbk

42990 47990 50990 46990 51990 54990

1600

4dr Van

29990

1600

2dr Cpe

64990

64990

1600 2000 2000 2000 2000

4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Wag 4dr Sed 4dr Sed

46990 54990 57990 65990 68990

3600 3000 4800 3000 4800

5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag

139500 140500 183500 197500 270000

3000 3000 3000 4800 4800 3000 4800

4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed

192400 192400 202400 260000 270000 273000 350000

31300 Megane 31300 2.0 petrol 34100 2.0 Luxury pack 2.0 Coupe-Cabriolet 31900 RS250 Cup turbo 33900 RS250 Cup Trophee turbo

2000 2000 2000 2000 2000

4dr Sed 31990 4dr Sed 2dr Cpe 2dr Cpe 51990 2dr Cpe 58990

34990 39990 54990

34400 2.5 4x2 petrol 2.5 4x4 petrol 2.0 diesel 4x4

2500 2500 2000

5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag

37990 43990 49990

Maxima 370Z

GT-R

X-Trail

2.0 L FWD 2.5 ST-L 2.5 Ti 4dr Sed 123900 2.0 TS dCI 4dr Sed 123900 2.0 TL dCi

ML 250 BlueTec ML 250 BlueTec Exclusive ML 350 BlueTec ML 350 BlueEfficiency ML 500 ML 63 AMG

5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk

MX-5

106900 122900 122900 142900 142900 176900 248900 122900 122900 176900 134900 154900 188900

3000 3500

ML class

CC Body Man Auto

4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 2dr Cpe 2dr Cpe 2dr Cpe 2dr Cab 2dr Cab 2dr Cab

320 CDI SWB 350 SWB

1500 1500

Mazda6

24645 26555

R class

1.5 Classic 1.5 Sport

Mazda3

23245 25155

151900 224900 102900 108900 117900 125900 134900 142900 280300 104900 116300 118600 128900 138100 196400

1800 2200 1800 3500 3000 5400 6200 2200 3500 5400 1800 3500 5400

4dr Sed 5dr Hbk

1500 1500

5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk

2000 2000 2400 2000 2000 2400

4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk

2000 2000 2000 1800

5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 47990

2000 2400 2400 2400

5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag

2500 2500

5dr Wag 5dr Wag

3200 3200

5dr Wag 5dr Wag

1400 1400

5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk

1800 1800 1800

5dr Hbk 5dr Sed Sed/Hbk

1600 1600

5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk

1800

5dr Wag

Murano

Peugeot 207

31900 39200 1.6 XT 43600 1.6 Premiere 47200 308 1.6 CC petrol 44200 1.6 Access 48600 1.6 Active 52200 2.0Active HDi 48900 1.6 Allure 52200 2.0 Allure HDI 55900 2.0 HDi Active SW 57200 4007 SUV 60200 2.2 HDI Allure 49200 2.2 HDI Allure SE 57200

4008 SUV

2.0 Active 2WD 2.0 Allure 2WD TBA 2.0 Feline 4WD TBA 3008 1.6 Active 1.6 Sport 23490 1.6 Luxury 28590 2.0 HDi Active 2.0 HDi Sport 2.0 HDi Luxury 30690 36990 Partner 40890 1.6 HDi 30690 RCZ 36990 1.6 (200hp man) 40890 508 1.6 Active petrol 36690 2.0 HDi Allure diesel 40590 2.0 SW HDi Allure diesel 43590 2.2 HDi GT diesel 2.2 HDi SW GT diesel

PORSCHE

38890 Cayenne 42990 Cayenne 45990 Cayenne diesel 51090 Cayenne S Cayenne S Hybrid 58990 Cayenne Turbo 63990 Panamera Panamera 77090 Panamera diesel 87590 Panamera 4 Panamera S Panamera 4S Panamera S Hybrid 22600 Panamera Turbo 24100

RENAULT

Koleos

New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2011 71

NEWPRICES

CC Body Man Auto Sport 5.0 V8 Supercharged 5000 Vogue TDV8 3600 Vogue 5.0 V8 Supercharged 5000

NEWPRICES CC Body Man Auto Fluence

2.0 petrol

2000

Skoda Fabia

4dr Sed

CC Body Man Auto 1.0

1000

5dr Hbk

1.2 1.2 Ltd

1200 1200

5dr Hbk 18990 5dr Hbk

1400 1400 1400 1600

5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk

20500 22500 23500 27500

23990 24990 28990

2000 2000 2000 2000 2000

5dr Hbk 25990 5dr Hbk 27990 5dr Hbk 27990 5dr Hbk 4dr Sed

27990 29990 29990 31990 29990

2400 2400 2400

4dr Sed 35990 4dr Sed 41990 4dr Sed

1300 1300

3dr Wag 3dr Wag

2400 2400 2400

3dr Wag 31690 5dr Wag 37990 5dr Wag

1300 1300 1500 1500

Hybrid 5-door 1500 Hybrid 5-door alloy wheels 1500 1500 38990 Hybrid 5-door s-Tech 42990 Corolla 47990 1.8 GX Hatch 1800 1.8 GLX Hatch 1800 1800 44990 1.8 GX Sedan 1.8 GLX Sedan 1800 1500 41990 1.5 GX Wagon

34990

Splash

1.2 TSI 1.4 vRS 1.2 TSI Combi

1200 1400 1200

5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Wag

1.2 TSiDSG 2.0 TDI DSG 4x4

1200 2000

5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk

TSI 90 Liftback TDI 77 Liftback diesel TSI 118 Liftback vRS TSI Liftback vRS TDI Liftback diesel TSI 90 Wagon TDI 77 Wagon diesel TSI 118 Wagon vRS TSI Wagon vRS TDI Wagon diesel Scout 4x4 TDI Wagon diesel

1400 1600 1800 2000 2000 1400 1600 1800 2000 2000 2000

5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag

28000 Swift 37000 1.4 30500 1.4 GLX 1.4 Ltd 1.6 Sport 37500 48000 SX4 2.0 GLX 2WD 2 .0 LTD 2WD 37000 2.0 GLX AWD 39000 2.0 LTD AWD 41500 2.0 LTD Sedan 52000 54000 Kizashi 39500 2.4 GLX 41500 2..4 Limited 44000 2.4 Sport AWD 54500 Jimny 56500 1.3 4WD JX 66500 1.3 4WD Sierra

1.8 TSI 118 2.0 TDI 103 diesel 2.0 TDI 125 diesel 3.6 V6 4x4 1.8 TSI 118 wagon 2.0 TDI 103 wagon 2.0 TDI 103 4x4 wagon 2.0 TDI 125 wagon 2.0 TDI 125 4x4 wagon 3.6 V6 4x4 wagon

1800 2000 2000 3600 1800 2000 2000 2000 2000 3600

5dr Sed 5dr Sed 5dr Sed 5dr Sed 5dr Sed 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Lbk 5dr Lbk 5dr Combi

46000 48500 59500 66500 48500 51000 54000 62000 63000 69000

Yeti

Octavia

Superb

Ssangyong Korando Sports 4x2 Diesel Sports 4x4 Diesel SPR 4x4 Diesel

2000 2000 2000

5 dr Wag 34990 5 dr Wag 5 dr Wag

2.7 Sports 7 seat

2700

5dr MPV

2.0L 2.7L

2000 2700

5dr SUV 36990 5dr SUV

Sports (121kw) Sports (137kw) SPR

2700 2700 2700

5dr SUV 5dr SUV 5dr SUV

X XS XS Ltd XT (Turbo) Diesel

2500 2500 2500 2500 2000

5dr Wag 40990 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 51490 5dr Wag 47490

2.0i Sedan/Hatch 2.0i-L Sedan/Hatch 2.0i-S Sedan/Hatch 2.0i-SL Sedan/Hatch XV crossover

2000 2000 2000 2000 2000

Sdn/Hbk Sdn/Hbk Sdn/Hbk Sdn/Hbk 5dr Hbk

2.0 Diesel Sedan 2.5i Sport Sedan 2.5i Sport Spec B Sedan 2.5i Premium Sedan 3.6R Premium Sedan 2.5i GT Spec B Sedan 2.5i GT Spec B Premium 2.0 Diesel Wagon 2.5i Sport Wagon 2.5i Sport Wagon Spec B 2.5i Premium wagon 2.5i GT Spec B Wagon 2.5i GT Spec B Premium

2000 2500 2500 2500 3600 2500 2500 2000 2500 2500 2500 2500 2500

4dr Sdn 50990 4dr Sdn 42490 4dr Sdn 4dr Sdn 4dr Sdn 4dr Sed 61490 4dr Sed 67490 5dr Wag 51990 5dr Wag 43990 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 63490 5dr Wag 69990

Stavic

Kyron AWD

Rexton II AWD

Subaru Forester

Impreza

Legacy

Tribeca

Tribeca

3600

2.0 Diesel 2.5i 2.5i Premium 3.6R 3.6R Premium

2000 2500 2500 3600 3600

Outback

Suzuki Alto

34990 37990 39990 44990 36990

Grand Vitara

49990

2.4 JLX 2.4 JLX 2.4 Limited

Toyota Yaris

1.3 YR 3-door 1.3 YR 5-door 1.5 YRS 5-door 1.5 Sedan

Prius C

Prius

Hybrid 55790 Hybrid i-Tech 54990 Prius V 59990 Hybrid 7 seat wagon Hybrid s-Tech 7 seat wagon Hybrid i-Tech 7 seat wagon

Avensis

41990 2.0 Wagon 45990 Camry 50490 2.5 GL 52490 2.5 Atara S 2.5 Atara SX 2.4 Hybrid 36990 2.4 Hybrid iTech 39990 Aurion 41990 3.5 V6 AT-X 46990 3.5 V6 Sportivo SX6 37990 3.5 V6 Touring

Previa

2.4 MPV Wagon 44490 48990 Rav4 49990 2.4 Petrol 56490 2.4 Petrol Ltd 61490 2.2 Diesel 67490 Highlander 3.5 V6 SUV 2WD 45990 3.5 V6 SUV 4WD 50490 3.5 V6 SUV Limited 4WD 51490 FJ Cruiser 63490 4.0 V6 69990 Land Cruiser Prado 3.0 GX TD 5dr Wag 71990 3.0 VX TD 4,0 VX Limited TD petrol 3.0 VX Limited TD 5dr Wag 54490 5dr Wag 46990 48990 Land Cruiser 200 5dr Wag 53990 VX diesel 5dr Wag 59990 VX Limited diesel 5dr Wag 65990 Volkswagen

Polo

1.4 72 New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2011

17250

CC Body Man Auto 1400 1200 1200 1400

5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk

28500 31500 35000 37500

1400 1600 1400 2000 2000 2000 1400 1600 1400

5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Cpe

38500 40750 43750 45750 58500 73500 40000 42000 43000

2.0 TSI 155kW 37990 R TSI 195kW 43990 Eos 48500 2.0 TSI

2000 2000

2dr Cpe 2dr Cpe

59000 70250

2000

2dr Cpe

60250

3dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 23790 5dr Hbk 4dr Sed

1.8 TSi 118kW petrol 24500 2.0 TDI 103kW diesel 2.0 TDI 125kW diesel 33190 1.8 TSi 118kW Wagon 39500 2.0 TDI 103kW Wagon 41990 2.0 TDI 125kW Wagon 2.0 TDI 125kW Alltrack 4WD CC 2.0 125kWTDI CC 3.6 V6 FSI 23290 Tiguan 25290 2.0 TSi 27490 2.0 TDi 30540

1800 2000 2000 1800 2000 2000 2000 2000 3600

4dr Sed 4dr Sed 5dr Sed 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 4dr Cpe 4dr Cpe

47500 49500 57750 50000 52000 60200 59500 61750 73250

2000 2000

5dr SUV 5dr SUV

48750 53250

5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk

TDi V6 150kW diesel 30990 TDi V6 180kW diesel 31990 TDi V8 250kW diesel 34990

3000 3000 4200

5dr SUV 93250 5dr SUV 108000 5dr SUV 139500

5dr Hbk 34490 5dr Hbk 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 5dr Hbk 30490

35990 C30 39490 T5 S 35890 T5 R-Design 38990 C70 32490 T5 S

2500 2500

2dr Cpe 2dr Cpe

49990 57990

2500

2dr Cpe

79990

49990 T5 S 55490 S60 T4 50990 T5 R-Design 55490 D3 65490 T6 AWD T6 AWD R-Design 47990 V50 T4 44990 V60 48890 T4 51490 T5 R-Design 50990 D3 56890 T6 AWD T6 AWD R-Design 49690 V70 51790 T6 52090 XC60 T5 AWD 65090 D5 AWD D5 AWD R Design 43290 T6 AWD 48990 T6 AWD R-Design

2500

4dr Sed

49990

1600 2000 2000 3000 3000

4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed

59990 72990 68990 79990 90990

1600

4dr Wag

53990

1600 2000 2000 3000 3000

4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed

62990 75990 69990 82990 93990

3000

5dr Wag

84990

3200 2400 2400 3000 3000

5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag

69990 79990 89990 86990 99990

D5 AWD

2400

5dr Wag

83990

3200 2400

5dr Wag 5dr Wag

89990 89990

19990 22990

19550 1.4 Plus 1.2 TSI 20500 1.2 TSI Cross Polo 21990 GTI TSI

Golf

1.4 TSI 90kW 1.6 TDI 77kW BlueMotion 1.4 TSI 118kW 2.0 TDI 103kW GTI TSI 155kW R TSI 199kW 1.4 TSI 90kW Wagon 1.6 TDI 77kw Wagon 1.4 TSI 90kW Cabriolet

Scirocco

Passat

Touareg

Volvo

S40

1800 1800

5dr Hbk 5dr Hbk

1800 1800 1800

5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag

2000

5dr Wag

2500 2500 2500 2400 2400

4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed

3500 3500 3500

4dr Sed 4dr Sed 4dr Sed

2400

4dr Wag

2400 2400 2200

5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag

3500 3500 3500

5dr Wag 5dr Wag 5dr Wag

54990 XC90 59490 3.2 AWD 67490 D5 AWD

4000

5dr Wag

70990

3000 3000 4000 3000

5dr Wag 80490 82090 CITROEN 5dr Wag 92190 5dr Wag 106690 Berlingo Van 5dr Wag 107690 1.6 HDi diesel

1600

4dr Van

29990

4500 4500

5dr Wag 125500 5dr Wag 147500 Scuo 272.4L20

2000

4dr Van

39996

2300 3000

4dr Van 49995 4dr Van

41790 47390 50490

XC70

Commercial vehicles

Fiat Scudo Van

Ducato Van

1400

5dr Hbk

Ducato Medium 251.BG2 25750 Ducato Medium 251.BG3

58993

Ford Ranger

2300 3000

4dr Van 52998 4dr Van

4x2 XL Super Cab wellside 4x2 XLT Super Cab wellside 4x2 XL Double Cab wellside 4x2 XLT Double cab w/s 4x4 XL Supercab c/c 4x4 XL Supercab w/s 4x4 XLT Supercab w/s 4x4 XLT Double Cab c/c 4x4 XL Double Cab w/s 4x4 XLT Double Cab w/s Wildtrack Double Cab

2200 2200 2500 2500 3200 3200 3200 3200 3200 3200 3200

4dr Ute 40290 4dr Ute 4dr Ute 42690 4dr Ute 46190 4dr Ute 50790 4dr Ute 52790 4dr Ute 4dr Ute 52990 4dr Ute 54090 4dr Ute 58690 4dr Ute 64290

4.0 F6 4.0 GS

4000 4000

2dr Ute 2dr Ute

4.0 XR6 4.0 XR6 turbo

4000 5400

2dr Ute 2dr Ute

330 Low Roof D/dr 330 Med Roof 350 Med Roof 350 Med Roof D/dr 350 High Roof 350 High Roof D/dr 350 Jumbo 460 Jumbo 430L Cab/chassis 460 ELWB Cab/chassis 12 Seater Bus 14 Seater Bus

2400 2400 2400 2400 2400 2400 2400 2400 2400 2400 2400 2400

4dr Van 4dr Van 4dr Van 4dr Van 4dr Van 4dr Van 4dr Van 4dr Van 2dr c/c 2dr c/c 4dr Van 4dr Van

49790 50390 56090 56790 59290 59990 65590 67790 54590 57490 65490 66390

2400 2400 2400 2000 2000 2000

2dr Ute 4dr Ute 4dr Ute 4dr ute 4dr ute 4dr ute

20990 25990 28990 26990 27990 30990

FPV FG series Ute FG Falcon Ute Transit

Great Wall Utes

V-240 4x2 single c/c V-240 4x2 double cab V-240 4x4 double cab V-200 4x4 single c/c V-200 4x2 diesel D/C V-200 4x4 diesel D/C

73990 66990

Hino 300 light Duty Truck

614 Short 614 Short Dump 614 Medium 616 Short 616 Medium 714 Hybrid 716 Medium 716 Dump 816 Medium 816 Crew 916 Long

Holden Combo

4000 4000 4000 4000 4000 4000 4000 4000 4000 4000 4000

61590

35S14 V 8m3 50C18V 12m3 50C18V 15m3 46990 50C18V 17m3 44690 Daily cab & chassis 48190 50C18 CC swb 50C18 CC lwb 65C18 CC swb 57090 65C18 CC lwb

K2900

45990 48990

Mazda BT-50

4x2 GLX single cab c/c 4x2 GLX single cab wellside 4x2 GLX Freestyle c/c 4x2 GLX Freestyle wellside 4x2 GLX Double Cab w/s 4x2 GSX Double Cab w/s 4x4 GLX S/Cab DX C/C 4x4 GLX Freestyle c/c 4x4 GLX Freestyle w/s 4x4 GLX Freestyle Plus c/c 4x4 GLX Double Cab c/c 4x4 GLX Double Cab w/s 4x4 GSX Double Cab w/s 41500 4x4 Ltd Double Cab w/s

Trend CDI 8 seats Ambiente CDI 7 seats Ambiente CDI V6 7seat

DX 4x2 Cab/chassis LX 4x2 Crew Cab LT 4x2 Crew Cab LTZ 4x2 Crew Cab DX 4x4 Sgl cab/chassis LX 4x4 Spacecab/chassis LTZ 4x4 Spacecab LX 4x4 Crew Cab/chassis LX 4x4 Crew Cab pickup LT 4x4 Crew Cab pickup 4x4 Crew Cab PU LX 4x4 Crew Cab PU LT

2500 2800 2800 2800 2800 2800 2800 2800 2800 2800 2800 2800

2dr Ute 38400 4dr Ute 44400 4dr Ute 4 5900 47900 4dr Ute 49900 51900 2dr Ute 44900 2dr Ute 49400 2dr Ute 58400 2dr Ute 51400 2dr Ute 54400 2dr Ute 55900 4dr Ute 47900 4dr Ute 52500 54600

30400

3600 6000 6000

2dr Ute 2dr Ute 2dr Ute 60100

CRDi 2.5 seat

2500

5dr Van

46990

CRDi Elite 8 seat

2500

5dr Van

56990

3000 3000 3000 3000 3000

2dr Ute 4dr Ute 4dr Ute 4dr Ute 4dr Ute

36890 44790 48890 49990 54990

Hyundai i-Load Delivery Van i-Max Passenger Van

Isuzu Ute D-Max

LX 2WD single cab/chassis LS 2WD Double Cab LX 4WD Space Cab/chassis LX 4WD Double Cab LS 4WD Double Cab

2300 3000 3000 3000

5dr Van 5dr Van 5dr Van 5dr Van

66035 77459 80970 84483

3000 3000 3000 3000

2dr c/c 2dr c/c 2dr c/c 2dr c/c

66331 67269 74475 75412

3000 3000 3000 3000

4dr c/c 4dr c/c 4dr c/c 4dr c/c

77032 77970 82148 83086

2900

2dr Truck

34990

2400 2400 2400 2400 2400

2dr Ute 2dr Ute 4dr Ute 2dr Ute 4dr Ute

61500 64500 71500 61500 71500

3200 3200 3200 3200 3200 3200 3200 3200 3200 3200 3200 3200 3200 3200

2dr Ute 2dr Ute 4dr Ute 4dr Ute 4dr Ute 4dr Ute 2dr Ute 4dr Ute 4dr Ute 4dr Ute 4dr Ute 4dr Ute 4dr Ute 4dr Ute

35295 37395 38395 40295 42695 45495 46795 49795 51795 50995 51295 51295 56895 58895

5dr Van 5dr Van 5dr Van 5dr Van 5dr Van 5dr Van 5dr Van

40800 41800 44300 45600 46450 46800 55300

Truck 42700 Mercedes Benz Truck 52200 Truck 4400 Vito panel van (excl GST) Truck 45000 109 CDI SWB 2200 Truck 46000 47300 109 CDI MWB 2200 Truck 56000 111 CDI MWB 2200 Truck 48500 111 CDI LWB 2200 Truck 59300 111 CDI LWB 2200 Truck 51200 115 CDI LWB 2200 Truck 55700 59100 120 CDI LWB 3000 Truck 51700 Viano

4dr Van

SV6 SIDI SS SS V

Land Rover Defender

110 single cab chassis 130 single cab chassis 110 dbl cab p/up 110 Cab chassis 130 Dbl Cab P/up

1800

VE Ute

2.9 DSL Light Truck

Sprinter 3T (excl GST)

2200 2200 3000

209 CDI SWB

2148 Sprinter 3.5T (excl GST) 311 CDI S MWB 2148 313 CDI MWB 2148 313 CDI LWB 2148 315 CDI MWB 2148 315 CDI LWB 2148 318 CDI MWB 2987 318 CDI LWB 2987

5dr Van 5dr Van 5dr Van 4dr Van

48700

4dr Van 4dr Van 4dr Van 4dr Van 4dr Van 4dr Van 4dr Van

53300 55500 59400 56800 60700 60300 64200

515 CDI LWB 2148 4dr Van 515 CDI LWB 2148 4dr Van 518 CDI LWB 2987 4dr Van 2987 4dr Van 49000 518 CDI LWB 55400 Sprinter Cab Chassis (excl GST) 60100 311 CDI S 2148 2dr C/C 515 CDI L 2148 2dr C/C

66700 68900 70200 72400

48990

Sprinter 5T (excl GST)

Mitsubishi Triton

2WD GL D/cab chassis 58990 2WD GLX S/cab chassis 2WD GLX D/cab w/side 2WD GLS D/cab W/side 4WD GL S/cab chassis 4WD GL D/cab chassis 48890 4WD GL D./cab w/side 4WD GLX D/cab w/side 4WD GLS D/cab w/side 56990

CC Body Man Auto L300

Daily Duo cab & chassis

56090 50C18 DCC swb 60690 50C18 DCC lwb 66290 65C18 DCC swb 65C18 DCC lwb 73990 kia 66990

Van

Colorado

CC Body Man Auto IVECO Daily Van

2500 2500 2500 2500 2500 2500 2500 2500 2500

4dr Ute 2dr Ute 4dr Ute 4dr Ute 2dr Ute 4dr Ute 4dr Ute 4dr Ute 4dr Ute

52645 58650

2.4 SWB Petrol 72582 2.4 LWB Petrol 82518 Nissan 86030 Navara DX 89544 4x2 S/cab C/C ABS 4x2 D/cab W/side 71390 4x4 S/cab C/C 72328 4x4 D/cab W/side 79534 Urvan 80471 3.0 4x2 Van

2400 2400

4dr Van 4dr Van

30690 35790

2500 2500 2500 2500

2dr Ute 4dr Ute 2dr Ute 4dr Ute

30200 34450 39450 44500

3000

5dr Van

45450

2500 2500 2500 2500 2500 2500 2500 2500 3000

4dr Ute 39900 4dr Ute 42900 4dr Ute 45900 4dr Ute 46490 4dr Ute 48490 4dr Ute 49490 4dr Ute 52490 4dr Ute 57490 4dr Ute

41900 44900 47900 48490 50490 51490 54490 59490 67990

4dr Ute 4dr Ute 4dr Ute 4dr Ute

32990 36990 39990 45990

38990 41990 47990

1600

5dr Van

22500

2.7 ZL 3 seat 47495 2.7 ZL 6 seat 3.0 ZL Diesel 3 seat 3.0 ZL Diesel 6 seat 3.0 ZX Diesel 3 seat 3.0 12 Seat minibus

2700 2700 3000 3000 3000 3000

5dr Van 5dr Van 5dr Van 5dr Van 4dr Van 4dr Van

46190 47190 49890 50090 55690 69790

4x2 Sgle Cab Chassis Petrol 58895 4x2 Sgle Cab Chassis Diesel 61895 4x2 Extra Cab Diesel 4x2 Dble Cab Petrol 4x2 Dble Cab Diesel 4x4 Sgle Cab Chassis Diesel 4x4 Xtra Cab Chassis Dsl 4x4 Xtra Cab Dsl 4x4 Xtra Cab SR5 Dsl 4x4 Dble cab Diesel 4x4 SR5 Dble Cab Diesel

2700 3000 3000 2700 3000 3000 3000 3000 3000 3000 3000

2dr Ute 2dr Ute 2dr Ute Dbl cab Dbl cab 2dr Ute 2dr Ute 2dr Ute 2dr Ute 4dr Ute 4dr Ute

35790 40090 42090 40390 43990 47490 51090 53990 59290 53190 59390

4.5 Diesel Cab/Ch 68810 4.5 Diesel Cab/Ch Turbo 82760 4.5 Turbo Diesel Hard top 94668 4.5 Turbo Diesel Wagon LX

4500 4500 4500 4500

2dr Cc 2dr Cc 2dr Cc 2dr Cc

68690 74790 79490 82490

1200 1600 1200 1600 1600

3dr Van 29900 3dr Van 35250 3dr Van 32750 3dr Van 38100 3dr Van

82091 83029 87207 88145

Navara D40

2WD RX D/C diesel wellside 2WD ST D/C diesel wellside 2WD ST-X D/C diesel 4WD RX King Cab c/c diesel 4WD RX King Cab w/s diesel 4WD RX D/C diesel wellside 4WD ST D/C wellside 4WD ST-X 450 diesel 4WD ST-X 550 diesel

Ssangyong Actyon Sports

4WD Workmate Double cab 2000 2WD Sports Double Cab 2000 4WD Sports Double Cab 2000 4WD SPR Sports Double Cab 2000

Suzuki APV

1.6 APV Van

Toyota Hiace

Hilux

Landcruiser 70 series

Volkswagen Caddy

1.2 TSI 1.6 TDI Maxi LWB 1.2 TSI Maxi LWB 1.6 TDI Maxi Life 5-seater 1.6 TDI

Amarok

Double cab TDI 340Nm 2WD 2000 DC TDI Highline 400Nm 2WD 2000 Double cab TDI 400Nm 4WD 2000 DC TDI 400Nm 4WD Highline 2000

T5 Transporter

2.0 TDI 250Nm 2.0 TDI 340Nm 2.0 TDI 400Nm 2.0 TDI 400Nm 4Motion 2.0 TDI 250Nm LWB 2.0 TDI 340Nm 2.0 TDI 340Nm 4Motion 2.0 TDI 400Nm 2.0 TDI 400Nm 4Motion 2.0 TDI 340Nm Caravelle 44990 2.0 TDI 400Nm Multivan 48090

2000 2000 2000 2000 2000 2000 2000 2000 2000 2000 2000

39890 34790 42990 45990 Crafter van 42990 2.0 TDI 35 300Nm High MWB 2000 44990 2.0 TDI 35 340Nm High MWB 2000 46990 51090 53190 2.0 TDI 35 340Nm High LWB 2000 54190 56190 2.0 TDI 50 340Nm High LWB 2000

Dbl cab Dbl cab Dbl cab Dbl cab

48490 52090 57690 72090

56990 61890

38750 41600 47990

43990 49990 56990 61990

4dr Van 46950 4dr Van 51500 4dr Van 53500 4dr Van 59500 4dr Van 49500 4dr Van 54000 4dr Van 60000 4dr Van 56000 4dr Van 62000 4dr Van 4dr Van 69990 4dr Van 4dr Van 4dr Van 4dr Van

47550

63000 66000 69000 76000

New Zealand Company Vehicle October 2011 73

55000 57000 63000 57500 59500 65500 62990 76500

NEWPRICES

CC Body Man Auto Ducato Heavy 251.HG2 Ducato Heavy 251.HG3

ISUZU D-MAX GENUINE ACCESSORIES Isuzu have been designing and manufacturing Utes since 1963. Nearly 50 years of constant development teaches you a thing or two about being fit for a purpose and how to build a tool, not a toy.

Designed to the same Japanese quality standards as your Isuzu D-Max, Isuzu Genuine Accessories are guaranteed to fit perfectly, last as long as you’re D-Max and look great doing it.

Don’t cut corners on your D-Max accessories.

From “The only ute made by a truck maker” here are “The only ute accessories made by a truck maker”

BED LINER OVER RAIL

BED RUBBER MAT

BULL BAR

CANOPY

CARGO BIKE CARRIER

CARGO DIVIDER

NUDGE BAR

CARGO RAILS

DOOR VISORS

FRONT BUMPER GUARD

ROOF RAILS

CARGO NET

CARPET FLOOR MATS

ASK YOUR ISUZU DEALER ABOUT ISUZU GENUINE ACCESSORIES OR VISIT WWW.ISUZUUTES.CO.NZ

0800 ISUZU NZ

RUBBER FLOOR TRAYS