Motoring September 6, 2019
Kona
designed for adventure
DETAILS
P18
3.9% FINANCE* ON NEW ISUZU EXCLUSIVE TO ISUZU MID & SOUTH CANTERBURY 91 ARCHIBALD STREET, TINWALD | 03 307 2415 www.isuzumidandsouthcanterbury.co.nz
D-MAX AND MU-X *T&C’s Apply.
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Farming Motoring
Friday, September 6, 2019
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Kona - looking for adventure T he Kona is designed with independence and fun in mind. Confident, vibrant, sporty and full of personality, its cascading front grille, slim LED daytime running lights, high contrast wrap-around body cladding and wide stance is designed to make a statement wherever you go. The Kona also features unique front and rear light architecture, with separated top and bottom lights stacked for extra impact. The Kona doesn’t simply allow you to express your personality, it encourages it – and with Kona, that expression can be as unique as you are. They say it’s what’s on the inside that counts, and the Kona’s interior counts for a lot – especially when it comes to space. It’s a compact SUV, but sit inside and the Kona soon reveals its spacious self. The Kona has far more room than you’d expect – from the generous boot, to the 60/40 folding rear seats, you’ll always have space when you need it. It’s well appointed too, with a premium interior that you can style to suit. We’ve added heated and ventilated front seats, leather appointed upholstery* and a range of stylish additions. With a host of advanced features, the Kona is designed for you to enjoy your love for technology whilst driving on the road. A Head-Up Display on the dashboard projects a virtual image of important data (like your speed) right in front of your eyes, so you never have to take them off the road. We’ve integrated Apple CarPlay™ & Android AutoR too. You can use the 7” (Entry
and Elite) or 8” (Limited) touchscreen display to safely play music, make calls or get directions to your next destination via the maps app on your smartphone device or satellite navigation on Limited models.
Hyundai Kona From
$31,990.
The compact SUV with attitude.
Hyundai Mid Canterbury 91 Archibald Street, Tinwald | 03 307 2415
You’ll also find wireless smartphone charging* in the centre console, so you can easily recharge without the need for cables. There are two things we take very seriously – fun, and safety. The Kona is definitely fun to drive, but it’s comforting to know that no matter where life might be taking you, you’re protected by some of the most comprehensive, modern safety features in existence today. From a rigid body made of high strength steel for all round protection, to 6 airbags and a rear view camera with rear parking sensors – everything we do is to help keep you out of harm’s way. Hyundai SmartSense™1 is working to protect you too. Every feature in this suite of intelligent safety technologies has one thing in common – they’ve been developed to help you be alert to (and avoid) any dangers around you. The Kona’s performance is just as exciting as its personality. Built on a high strength, lightweight
body, and with three drive modes (Comfort, Eco and Sport) to choose from, the Kona is a joy to drive. Once again, it’s entirely up to you. Choose from either the 2.0L MPi 2WD with 6-speed automatic, or the 1.6L Turbo GDi AWD with 7-speed dual clutch – which along with sharp throttle control and impressive torque, also allows you to get off road to explore even further. Kona signals the arrival of a new generation of Hyundai SUVs. A generation that refuses to be bound to a singular way of thinking. Because let’s face it, one size doesn’t always fit all, and that’s what makes the Kona so different. It’s all about freedom of choice, and the Kona gives you the freedom to choose how you present yourself (and your individuality) to the world. By putting the power in your hands, the Kona becomes an extension of you. It’s sleek, easy on the eye, well connected, and with plenty of colour combinations, you’ll be able to style it just the way you like it.
www.guardianonline.co.nz
Friday, September 6, 2019
19
THE BEAST IS BACK T
• • •
he updated MY20 Nissan GT-R is now available to order in England with first customer deliveries commencing in November. Priced from £83,995, the legendary sports car – celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2019 – features a number of enhancements that optimise performance, improve handling and dial up the R35’s iconic styling. The GT-R’s 570PS 3.8-litre V6 24-valve twin-turbocharged engine receives new turbochargers, which increase the engine’s low rpm response thanks to an abradable seal, providing tighter clearances and a 5 per cent increase in efficiency. Gear shifts are also 0.15 seconds improved when in R-Mode. The steering is more linear and precise than ever, requiring minimal corrections at speeds of up to 186mph. A new brake booster increases the initial braking response by engaging with less pedal stroke, resulting in enhanced stopping power and feel. Retired since the R34 GT-R, Bayside Blue makes a return to the R35 GT-R line-up. A four-coat double-heat treatment process ensures a vivid blue with striking highlights and deep shadows. Stylish new 20 Spoke 20” alloy wheels have also been introduced. In addition to the existing black, tan and red interior options on Prestige grade, there is now a new grey leather interior, replacing the outgoing ivory option.
Latest facelift 15,000km 2.8L Turbo Diesel
!!! BIG SAVINGS !!! 2 Yr Warranty + 2 x Free Services
2014 TOYOTA AQUA 1.5 L Hybrid • 1.5L Petrol + Hybrid battery • Bluetooth + CD • Climate Air + Alloys WAS $18,495
NOW ONLY
$16,495
NOW ONLY
2010 TOYOTA HILUX SR5 4WD Manual • 3.0L Turbo Diesel • Cruise Control • Bluetooth + CD WAS $31,495
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$19,995
2016 Toyota RAV4 GXL 2.5P AWD Auto • 2.5L Petrol • Adaptive Cruise • Keyless entry & start WAS $33,495
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$30,995
$92 p/w – total cost $23,795.37
$30,995
$141 p/w – total cost $36,597.42
$141 p/w – total cost $36597.42
EX
DE
M
O
$76 p/w – total cost $19,723.77
2016 Toyota Corolla GX Hatch • Super low kms • 1.8L Petrol • Cruise Control WAS $21,995
2016 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado VX • 2.8L Turbo Diesel • Leather Heated Seats • Bluetooth + GPS Nav WAS $59,495
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$58,995
$266 p/w – total cost $69,180.66
2017 Toyota Highlander Limited • 3.5L Petrol AWD • Sunroof • Leather WAS $59,995 • Rear Entertainment
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$257 p/w – total cost $66,852.54
2019 Toyota Land Cruiser 70 LT • 4.5L V8 Turbo Diesel • Cruise Control + Air Con • Bluetooth + Rev Camera
2019 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado VX • 2.8L Turbo Diesel • Traction & stability control • Safety Sense Package WAS $71,495
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$70,995
*Subject to Toyota Financial Services lending criteria. Weekly Classic Finance repayments calculated with a 10% deposit over a 60 month term at 10.75% p.a. with a $400 establishment fee and $9.20 PPRS fee.
Ashburton Toyota www.ashburton.toyota.co.nz
*Terms & Conditions apply.
OPEN MON-FRI 8AM-5PM SAT 9AM-1PM OR BY APPOINTMENT PHONE 0800 286 9682 | Cnr East St & Walnut Ave, Ashburton
NOW ONLY
$70,995
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Farming Motoring
Friday, September 6, 2019
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The complete package W
hy’s this new Mazda3 hatch perched on a grassy slope? Well it’s there during our test drive that included interesting roads through and about the Ashley Gorge, onto Kaikoura and then over the always interesting Leader Road to Waiau, then eventually home. Ideal driving roads then to check out Mazda’s claim that a quiet smooth ride is one of the hallmarks of a premium class vehicle. This, combined with performance, comfort and safety features means this fourth-generation hatch is a complete package, capable of impressing not only the driver, but passengers as well. The new model line-up of both hatches and sedans currently includes 2.0-litre GSXs priced at $36,595 and the 2.5-litre GTX and Limited models costing $40,795 and $48,795 respectively. The hatch’s sporty, rather striking looks, which Mazda says is ‘car as art’ styling and, conveys a sense of anticipation and energy is an entirely appropriate introduction. For the focus on driver involvement continues to be a standout attribute and Mazda’s Jinba Ittai philosophy of providing an effortless, intuitive and natural connection between the car and driver has been ramped up to another level. Although the cabin colours are quite dark its build, finishing, ambience and feel are right up there with the premium Euro models. Indeed better in some respects, including the tactile feel of the buttons and controls. They’re all pleasing, both to look at, touch and use without being ostentatious.
There’s also clearly been lots of effort also with the front seat design to ensure the best of both comfort and support. This was especially evident during the longer distances we travelled. The GTX has quality cloth seat coverings, but does not get seat heaters ( which the Limited has along with leather furnishings, a Bose sound system and additional driver assist/safety systems). As well as the wrap-around dash there’s a heads-up-display, which shows your speed of course, but as well shows roadside speed signs as well as the sat-nav instructions and cruise control settings. This excellent ‘active’ cruise control really lives up to its name through working very well in all driving situations, including doing its stuff in concert with the stopstart engine system from traffic light stops etc. There’s a large wide centre display for the Infotainment functions, including the dual zone climate air and very good sound system. Primary control is by turning the large circular controller sitting behind the gear selector, but there’s also a voice guidance system as well as Apple Car Play/Android Auto Connectivity. The rear seat holds two standard size adults very comfortably. Those much taller may find their head space compromised by the sloping roofline, both when entering and when seated. But then there’s changes that you can’t see, like the lots of sound deadening and the “two-wall” structure, which leaves space for air between the floor carpeting and body panel beneath it as well as lots of other technical stuff to negate as much as possible unwanted noise and vibration.
Roger Hart ROAD TEST
This all works, because its very hushed inside the cabin. Power is delivered by a quiet, yet very willing, non-turbo, 2.5-litre petrol engine, which, while still sipping 91 octane fuel, because of a number of technological advances to this Skyactiv engine, it not only produces 139kW at 6000rpm, but a nice responsive, progressive wave of torque from 2000rpm, which then peaks at 252Nm at 4000rpm. With fuel economy in mind, the engine can shut down the outer two cylinders when driving at constant speeds. Mazda has stayed with their six-speed auto. It’s changes quickly and very is always consistent in choosing the right gear for the occasion. That means the car is quick away from standstill, then in Sport sees 0-100km/h in under eight seconds. As well the claimed overall consumption is an achievable (according to the trip computer) 6.6l/100km. Given all this, and the handling capabilities of previous models, expectations of excellent dynamics from this latest Skyactiv chassis were gladly met. It has been changed and now features a very good torsion beam rear suspension. This, along with the nicely weight-
ed steering, results in very responsive handling, to which the torque vectoring, during cornering, via the braking system, completes an excellent, rewarding handling package. On-road refinement is helped out by the special Bridgestone tyres whose sidewalls offer more flex as part of the overall package to ensure the best possible ride. Then of course there’s a very comprehensive package of new i-Activsense active and passive daily driving assistance and safety technologies aboard.
MAZDA3 GTX HATCH ■■ Pricing: 2.5-litre GTX $40,795 : 2 litre GSX $36,595, and Limited and $48,795 respectively. Same pricing for both hatch and sedan models - all plus ORCs ■■ Engine: GTX and Limited 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol 139kW@6000rpm and 252Nm@ 4000rpm. ■■ Transmission: 6-speed auto – frontwheel-drive. ■■ Quoted Economy: 6.6L/100km. 51-litre tank. ■■ Turning Circle: 10.6 metres ■■ Tows: 1200kg braked. ■■ Safety: Many active and passive safety and driver assist systems- 5 star rating ■■ Warranty: Mazdacare program includes a 5-year unlimited kilometre Factory warranty, 5-years of roadside assistance and scheduled Servicing for 5 years or 100,000 kilometres (whichever occurs first).
FINALE
Mazda3 GTX
As anticipated, this Mazda3 hatch was convenient, comfortable and practical to drive. Yet refined, suitably quick, and despite the high value feel it now has about, still affordable. However for those who crave the higher ride and extra cargo capacity of a compact SUV/Crossover there’s a new CX-30 coming. It will slot in between the CX-3 and CX-5 It uses the same platform and is likely to be available with similar engines as is the Mazda3.
www.guardianonline.co.nz
Friday, September 6, 2019
21
21-year-old Maja Udtian has been a revelation in her first full Top Fuel season.
T
he world’s most powerful racing cars return to Santa Pod Raceway this weekend, with women drivers leading a 300mph hunt for the championship. 10,000-horsepower Top Fuel Dragsters are the headline attraction at the European Finals, when car and motorcycle teams from across the continent settle the season’s title honours in the FIA /FIM European Drag Racing Championships at the track near Wellingborough. Finland’s speed queen Anita Mäkelä, a Top Fuel veteran, is favoured to secure her fourth FIA crown, but other young female
racers have emerged to challenge her supremacy. 21-year-old Maja Udtian has been a revelation in her first full Top Fuel season. After three runner-up finishes – an impressive haul in itself for a rookie driver – the young Norwegian scored her first race victory in Sweden two weekends ago, beating Mäkelä by inches in the final. Mäkelä leads the title chase following her own stellar year at the wheel, but Udtian could still overtake her in a Santa Pod upset – and in drag racing’s head-tohead, instant-knockout formula, upsets are never far away.
Mäkelä has dominated the Top Fuel scene for several years but is no longer the quickest, fastest racer in Europe. Udtian set a new elapsed time record of 3.816 seconds over Top Fuel’s 1000-foot racing distance at the Swedish race, while Switzerland’s Jndia Erbacher established a fresh speed mark of 318.96mph to become Europe’s fastest-ever woman driver. A fourth female racer, Susanne Callin, will join the Santa Pod field of male competitors taking on the trio of female stars. There are close championship battles to be fought over the classic quarter-mile in other classes too, particularly among the
high-powered, wild-handling saloon-car replicas known as Pro Modifieds. Any of four drivers could end the weekend as FIA Pro Mod champion. On two wheels, a 5-second, 240mph tussle between Greece’s Fil Papafilippou and Sweden’s Rikard Gustafsson will determine the destination of the FIM-Europe Top Fuel Bike crown. A full programme of national championship classes supports the FIA and FIM European categories. Entrants from 15 different countries include the first Russian FIA contestant, Pro Mod’s Dmitry Samorukov.
Upgraded GT86 improves on motoring perfection
S
itting almost in a class of its own, the 86 has become synonymous for a bygone era of sports cars, when less was more, and driver pleasure outweighed horsepower. “When we launched the 86 in 2012, we injected fun to drive excitement into our line-up and brand,” says Toyota New Zealand’s Chief Operating Officer, Neeraj Lala. Since this launch, every upgrade has transformed a great car into an even better car.” The sporty 2+2 rear wheel drive 86 took its styling and handling cues from Toyota’s classic sixties and seventies sports cars and married them with a low centre-of-gravity 2 litre high-revving flat four engine. The engine delivers 152kW when coupled with the 6-speed manual, and 147kW with the 6-speed automatic, more than enough power to provide snappy performance in a car this size. For 2019, the entry level 86 has been quietly retired and the GT86 upgraded with extra stopping power and specially tuned shock absorbers to boost stability and responsiveness. Lala says the new GT86 continues the proud heritage of dynamic performance with an impressive Brembo braking upgrade.
“Not much beats taking the 2019 GT86 for a run through New Zealand’s twisty back roads.” The 2019 GT86 gains, as standard, performance items from the former Chris Amon Edition GT86. Larger Brembo brakes with red calipers increase stopping power. The front brake discs have
increased in diameter from 294mm to 326mm and are 6mm thicker. The rear discs have increased from 290mm to 316mm and are 2mm thicker. The addition of SACHS performance dampers sharpen
the GT86’s steering response and refines stability. Another upgrade is to the car’s connection to the road: the wheels have been upgraded to 10 spoke gun metallic 17-inch alloys. Outside, the GT86 is unchanged apart from the addition of a new colour – Magnetite Grey – which replaces the former Tornado Grey. The GT86 is available with a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. “Toyota is committed to investing in sports cars as they feed the excitement into the rest of our models,” says Lala. “86 and Supra are creating a new buzz amongst our customers and staff at Toyota stores.” Toyota’s Drive Away Pricing for the 2019 GT86 is $48,990 (manual transmission) and $49,990 (automatic transmission). The Toyota Drive-away pricing model includes all on road costs; that is WOF, registration, a full tank of fuel, the Toyota Care Service Advantage fixed price servicing package, floor mats, and the three years or 100,000 kms warranty.
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