In this Issue...
aston martin db11 The 86th Geneva International Motor Show Bentley’s Mulsanne Family The NEW Volkswagen Tiguan Porsche 911 R The Celebratory
Lamborghini Centenario Jaguar F-TYPE SVR
Issue Six
December 2015 Welcome to the Seventh Edition of We Love Cars. We Love Cars is an eMagazine that puts you in the driver’s seat and lets you know all the news about new vehicle launches, latest offers and company news.
Contents
10
Aston Marton DB11
18
Volkswagen Tiguan
26
30
Bentley’s Mulsanne Family
34 Porsche 911 R
42
Lamborghini Centenario
86th Geneva International Motor Show
Community................................................................................5
28
Trending Social Media............................................................9
Jaguar F-TYPE SVR
Industry Trends........................................................................6 Shifting Gears...........................................................................8
Double Take............................................................................12 Motorsport..............................................................................15 Nissan.......................................................................................56 Michael Giltrap’s Cool Cars & Great Deals........................68
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Quick Contents Page Located on the Bottom Left of Each Page
The Giltrap Group e-magazine is a magazine for you. If you’ve got a new idea for car articles, suggestions for events we’ve been part of, or simply have something that
2 Ret urn to Contents Page
you think we should cover, email info@giltrap.com and let us know what you want to see!
opening comments
Welcome to the first “WE LOVE CARS” for 2016 - and what
ing – Celebrating Porsche, this fantastic event was held
a start to the year it has been. There has been so many
at Hampton Downs Motorsport Park over two weekends:
exciting events showcasing our brands that it’s a little
15th - 17th and 22nd - 24th February.
hard to know where to begin - let alone the challenge of what not to talk about.
ance Champion, Brendon Hartley, and Le Mans Champion,
Let me start at the beginning of the year where I was
Earl Bamber, who shared the driving for exhibition laps in
lucky enough to go to the World Dealer Launch of the
two very special cars from the Porsche Museum in Stuttgart:
Bentley Bentayga in Palm Spring, CA, to see the finished
a 1977 Porsche 935, and 1998 WSC LMP1 Prototype. The
car for the first time.
Porsche marque also had on display a 918 Spyder (the lat-
When I first saw the Bentayga I was taken aback by the
est Porsche Hypercar), a Carrera GT, and a full-sized model
handsome looks and the overall presence the vehicle has.
of the Porsche 919 Hybrid LMP1 race car - successfully
Shortly after, I opened the door; the interior is pure luxury
campaigned by Brendon & Earl in 2015.
and in my opinion, sets a new benchmark in craftsmanship
However, the highlight of the event may have been the
and quality - clearly separating itself from the competition,
record set for the most Porsche’s ever assembled in one
including luxury saloons like Rolls-Royce.
place at one time in New Zealand - all 402 cars lined up on
The following day we drove the vehicle on-road and
track (as pictured above). The vehicles from the Porsche
off-road. The Bentayga was fast, quiet, smooth and was
Museum headed the line-up, and next up on the grid was a
more than capable when off-roading; everything you would
1993 964 Le Mans Turbo, the 918 Spyder, and the Carrera
expect - after all, it is a Bentley.
GT. Fittingly behind them, followed 27 Porsche 356s - the
But there’s one thing that I didn’t expect. And that is how well
car that started it all for Porsche.
the Bentayga handled the corners and bends. This vehicle
Both these weekends were very special and showed
is well over 2 tonnes and for it to sit so flat in tight corners
how much the Brand means to New Zealanders. I know
(where it does not pitch or roll) whilst maintaining perfect
our visitors from the Porsche factory were thrilled with the
ride quality, really defies belief; they tell me it is something
event and were taken aback by the crowds and support of
to do with the suspension (“Active Suspension”, as I call it).
Porsche in New Zealand.
This all leads me to simply say only one thing: the Bentley Bentayga is truly extraordinary. Back home to the New Zealand Festival of Motor Rac Ret urn to Contents Page
We had the great pleasure of being joined by World Endur-
I must take this opportunity to give a huge thanks to the Porsche Club and all the organisers for their efforts in making the event such a success.
3
opening comments 4 Ret urn to Contents Page
If you are a big fan of Aston Martin, like I am, you will be well pleased (after some wait) to see the replacement car to the DB9, the new DB11. The DB11 was launched at the Geneva Motor Show earlier in March. There was much anticipation of the unveiling of this new model and the DB11 did not disappoint - the new car could only be described as ‘stunning’. I am 100 percent sure it will perform as good as it looks, including electronics that will match any rival. I recently had the privilege (along with some VIP customers) to see the car in the flesh at a preview night in Singapore, and the response from the customers was the same as mine: overwhelming. We all agreed that Aston Martin has built one very special car in the DB11 (my point is: it’s not just me who thinks it is super cool). I would suggest if you
in conjunction with RedBull and their Famous F1 designer,
are fortunate enough to be considering an Aston Martin
Dr Adrian Newey: Head designer for Red Bull F1 - who also
DB11 you should now take a lot closer look as we have a
incidentally has designed the most F1 winning champion-
strong order bank - one that I have not seen on a vehicle
ship cars. This is the perfect collaboration: the designers
of this nature before; the world-wide demand is such that
that craft the most beautiful sports cars partner with the
it may mean that you will end up waiting longer than you
designers that innovate the best F1 race cars (innovation
would like.
that exhibits the finest aero dynamic performance in F1).
If the launch of the new DB11 did not confirm that Aston
This car’s project name is AM-RB 001. However, and I don’t
Martin is still one of the coolest brands in the world, this
know about you, but only one word comes to mind to de-
surely will: Aston Martin announced at the Melbourne
scribe the future hypercar, and that is: awesome.
Grand Prix that they have signed an agreement with the
I write this as I’m on course (with great excitement) to
RedBull Formula One team to become innovation partners.
the Jaguar Land Rover Set the Pace 2016 Global Retailer
With the announcement and the new partnership, came
Event in Miami, aboard the cruise ship, Crystal Symphony.
the exciting news that Aston Martin will build a hypercar
The conference is also the global dealer launch of the new Jaguar F pace. I’m sure it will be a lot fun – especially since (in typical Jaguar and Land Rover Fashion) I’m anticipating to see future models that have not been seen before. Great times ahead. Happy Motoring, Michael Giltrap
Community
Coastguard’s Top Day Out
Coastguard’s Top Day Out reeled in a total of 220 fishos that joined together
Thanks to the huge variety of suppli-
into Corporate Teams. Taking to the
ers and sponsors who assisted in bring-
water abroad 38 water vessels, all
ing this fantastic day to life, including
donated together with their skipper
event sponsors Green Freight Ltd, and
for the day, saw plentiful fishing, food
prize sponsors. It was also a delight to
and fellowship. The weather gods put
have a team from the Giltrap Group with
on a stunner in the Hauraki Gulf and
us on the day, as well as our friends
onshore Mouihe Island, and played
from The Blues who have partnered
its part to make the day a success.
with Coastguard as their charity partner
A little over $15,500 was raised for Coastguard from the day, a huge and generous donation that helps ensure our Volunteers (some of which were assisting on the day, getting participants to and from the beach safely) have the very best knowledge, training and equipment we can give them to do the job safely. The Coastguard VW Amarok, kindly provided by Community Partners, the Giltrap Group made our trip over on the barge to raise awareness of this important relationship for Coastguard and ably assist with logistics on the island. The biggest snapper of the day went to Geoff Thomas at 3.39kg. Many boaties landed a good sized fish, as well as good memories from a fine day on the water. Thanks to each and every skipper who donated their time and vessel today, without doubt they made the event possible with the kind use of their first-class boats, perfect for spending
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the day on the water.
again for the 2016 season.
Industry Trends
MARKET OVERVIEW - February 2016
REGISTRATIONS UP Passenger 7,191 new passenger registrations, up 2 percent on February 2015 and
9,500 9,000
February on record.
8,500
3,124 new commercial registrations
8,000
– up 11 percent over the same month
7,500
last year, and you guessed it – the best
7,000
February on record.
6,500
2014
6,000
2015
Overall, 10,315 new registrations – up 4 percent on the same month last year and placing the market up 3 percent YTD.
2016
5,500 5,000
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun
Jul
Aug Sep
Oct Nov Dec
Rental volumes followed seasonal patterns with February being a small
TOP 10 NEW PASSENGER REGISTRATIONS by brand for february 2015
month – making up 2 percent of the total new market.
Feb 16
% Chg YTD
TOYOTA
915
-5.5%
MAZDA
719
12.8%
HOLDEN
645
-21.3%
FORD
604
32.8%
NISSAN
484
8.8%
having strong starts included Subaru
HYUNDAI
470
-27.2%
up 60 percent, Skoda up 23 percent,
MITSUBISHI
413
-17.0%
Fiat up 28 percent, Land Rover up 29
KIA
407
51.0%
percent, Jaguar up 124 percent, Isuzu
SUZUKI
362
17.9%
VOLKSWAGEN
309
-8.4%
BRAND PERFORMANCE In a market down 1 percent, Mazda, Ford, Nissan, Kia and Suzuki are performing positively.
up 88 percent and Alfa Romeo up 187
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10,000
good enough to be the second best
Other brands outside the top 10
6
PASSENGER REGISTRATIONS NEWNEW PASSENGER REGISTRATIONS
percent.
MARKET OVERVIEW - February 2016 TOP MODELS FEBRUARY 2016
Industry Trends
SUV was the biggest sector with 3,677,
Sportage with 236: three Utes, two SUV.
Passenger cars were second with 3,475
Models that had a significatnly better
sales, and Commercial vehicles were
month than normal included; Sportgae
third with 3,081.
with 236, Tucson 169, Vitara 106, Audi
Top five models overall were Ranger
07 53 and Fabia 44.
581, Hilux 444, Triton 289, CX-5/
top three models by segment february 2016 Segment
Volume
Micro Passenger
Top 3 Models
144
Spark 43
Mirage 40
Fiat 500 21
Light Pass
1074
Swift 191
Jazz 157
Yaris 151
Small Pass
1300
Corolla 231
Mazda3 146
Lancer 121
Medium Pass
450
Mondeo 83
Camry 58
Mazda6 43
Large/Upper Pass
303
Commodore 166
Falcon 42
Superb 23
34
Carnival 12
Odyssey 6
Stavic, LDV G10 4
Sport
People Movers
170
Mustang 81
MX-5 13
Cascada 10
Small SUV
995
Qashqai 160
CX-3 150
ASX 112
Medium SUV
1392
Large/Upper Large SUV
1290
Santa Fe 137
Highlander 132
Outback 113
511
Hiace 184
Transit 75
iLoad 66
2284
Ranger 582
Hilux 444
Triton 288
286
Isuzu 67
Hino 32
Fuso 25
Van Pickup Heavy Com'l
Mazda CX-5, Kia Sportage 236
Rav4 214
The Kia Sportage Model upgrade hit the market strongly in February with sales of 236 – over double its usual monthly volume. Ret urn to Contents Page
7
Shifting Gears
Staff Updates
Giltrap group
8 Ret urn to Contents Page
giltrap prestige
James Berry
Wayne Tinker
General Manager of Pre Owned Luxury Vehicles
Volkswagen Sales
Having started working for the Group back in 1996, James
Having previously worked for us at Giltrap City Toyota,
has worked in a number of dealerships around Auckland.
Wayne has a wide range of expertise to bring to the Volk-
He was Divisional Manger for Ferrari and Maserati at CCS
swagen team. Wayne worked for a clothing distribution
and most recently, he helped establish the Maserati dealer-
company for 16 years, and has purchased many vehicles
ship for Nevill Crichton.
off the group as it is. With his love for motorsport, Wayne
“In many ways James has matured, and in some ways he hasn’t.” – Michael Giltrap, Managing Director.
races his classic Porsche 944 race car and is also an avid member of the Porsche Club.
Archibald and Shorter
Ben Harris
Tony Knaggs
Land Rover Sales
Volvo Sales Consultant
I’ve been in New Zealand for 5 years and worked for the
Tony started in the automobile industry as a groomer for
Giltrap Group for nearly the whole time. Having only sold
Ferrari and Masterati in his younger years. He progressed
German vehicles, I jumped at the opportunity to work with
into a sales cadetship and then Salesman for Mercedes-
an iconic British brand such as Land Rover. I am very pas-
Benz for 5 years. With a passion for sales and customer
sionate about 4WD cars so it’s a great fit for me. I’m look-
relationships Tony is excited about being a part of the
ing forward to meeting different customers and working
growing Volvo brand in New Zealand. In his spare time Tony
with some new faces. When not working, I love hanging
loves spending time with his young family and competes
out with my family and enjoying the fantastic NZ weather.
in the odd Ironman Triathlon or two.
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Ken Block’s Gymkhana Eight: Ultimate Exotic Playground, Dubai
McLaren 650S GT3 Claims Bathurst Lap Record 2m 01.286s
This Is DB11 - Aston Martin
On the Track with RADBUL Mad Mike Drifts Highlands Motorsport Park
Bugatti Chiron: World Premiere
Aston Martin Vulcan Hits the Track Top Gear Magazine
DSG Transmission Explained
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9
Aston Martin
Aston Martin DB11
A new chapter in Aston Martin’s
imagines the relationship between
a 5.2-litre twin-turbocharged V12.
history began at the 86th International
form and function with a series of
Designed in-house this new engine
Geneva Motor Show with the unveiling
fresh design signatures. Foremost
develops 608PS1 (600BHP) and
of the Aston Martin DB11. The first
amongst these are the front-hinging
700Nm of torque, making DB11 the
product launched under the company’s
clamshell bonnet, distinctive LED
most powerful production DB model
‘Second Century’ plan, DB11 is the
headlights and accentuated lines of
ever. Naturally, it’s the most dynamic
bold new figurehead of the illustrious
the iconic Aston Martin grille. The
and most accelerative too, with a top
‘DB’ bloodline and an authentic,
profile is equally dramatic, thanks to
speed of 200mph and a 0-62mph time
dynamic sporting GT in the finest
the roof strakes that flow uninterrupted
of just 3.9sec. Thanks to intelligent
Aston Martin tradition.
from A-pillar to C-pillar. The clean lines
bank activation and stop-star t
The Aston Martin DB11 showcases
continue at the rear, with a sloping
technology that potency is matched
a fresh and distinctive design
decklid that smoothly blends into
by greatly improved efficiency.
language, pioneering aerodynamics
boldly sculpted tail-lights to create a
and is powered by a potent new
new and unmistakable graphic. Like every Aston Martin, the heart of
turbocharged V12 engine. Built upon a
the DB11 is found beneath the bonnet,
120 Great North Road, Grey Lynn
new lighter, stronger, and more space
though unlike any Aston Martin before
or check out their website at
efficient bonded aluminium structure,
it, the Aston Martin DB11’s heart is
www.iprestige.co.nz
DB11 is the most powerful, most efficient and most dynamically gifted DB model in Aston Martin’s history. As such, it is the most significant new Aston Martin since the introduction of the DB9 in 2003. Heralding a new design era for Aston Martin, DB11 is the latest landmark in a remarkable aesthetic journey; one that gave us icons such as the DB2/4, DB5 and, most recently, the James Bond. Aston Martin DB11 re-
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showroom at
in-house designed 5.2-litre twin-
DB10 developed specifically for
10
Visit the Independent Prestige
INSPIRED BY RACING GLORY, ENGINEERED FOR EXCITEMENT
Inspired by Aston Martin’s rich racing pedigree, N430 is the most dramatic expression of V8 Vantage we have ever created. N430 takes the Vantage GT4 race car’s incredible intensity and transfers it on to the road with thrilling conviction. Bold, exciting, compelling – N430 has been created to deliver exceptional performance with a club sport ethos. To experience the N430’s powers of persuasion for yourself, contact: INDEPENDENT PRESTIGE 120 Great North Road, Grey Lynn, Auckland Telephone 0800 400 124 Email sales@iprestige.co.nz www.astonmartin.co.nz
Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the Aston Martin V8 Vantage N430 manual/Sportshift II*: urban 14.4 (19.6)/ 14.9 (19.0); extra-urban 27.2 (10.4)/30.7 (9.2); combined 20.5 (13.8)/22.1 (12.8). CO2 emissions 321/296g/km. The mpg/fuel economy figures quoted are sourced from official regulated test results obtained through laboratory testing. They are for comparability purposes only and may not reflect your real driving experience, which may vary depending on factors including road conditions, weather, vehicle load, and driving style. * Sportshift trademark is used under licence from Prodrive (Holdings) Ltd.
Double Take 12 Ret urn to Contents Page
Customers can now begin taking delivery of their Aston Martin Vulcans. Before you’re even allowed on track with your new Aston Martin Vulcan, you need to pass what may be one of the most fun track lessons of all time. First off; Aston Martin need to make sure
When we say ‘you’, we mean of course
The test took place at Abu Dhabi’s
you can handle a regular V12 Vantage
one of the lucky 24 customers who have
Formula One circuit, Yas Marina, and
S, which is of course an insanely fast
bought this £1.8million ($3.8 NZD), 820
each customer was given passenger-
car. Next is a Vantage GT4 racer with
brake horsepower, 7.0-litred V12 engine
side instruction on every lap, while
expert tutelage from AM Works driver,
tribute to the deities of motorsport.
being tested day and night in order
Darren Turner, to make sure you’re
The company confirmed that the first
to fully experience the car in different
confident, and then, and only then, do
set of customers have undergone the
atmospheric conditions. So really, one
you get to drive your very own Aston
very process mentioned above, and yes
awesome day.
Martin Vulcan.
that’s them pictured here.
Brand Partners
Commenting on the new car and the season ahead
Commenting on the new car and
RB12, Chief Technical Officer, Adrian
the season ahead, Team Principal,
Newey added: “I’m often asked what
Chief Engineering Officer, Rob Mar-
Christian Horner said: “Obviously the
area of the car I’m most pleased with
shall added: “With the RB12, we are
late engine decision last year was a
but with the stable regulations we
optimistic that we have made some
challenge but we found a solution in
have at the moment it’s difficult to
good gains, but the difficulty is the wind
time and the whole team has worked
find any major new areas to exploit.
tunnel and CFD numbers we’re seeing
incredibly hard to recover over the
Therefore, what we’ve really tried to
are our numbers and unless you can
winter. Therefore, we’re looking to
concentrate on with this car is get-
see everyone else’s numbers you don’t
build on the significant progress we
ting a cohesive package for all the
know where you are. We are happy
made in the second half of 2015 and to carry that momentum into the early races of this season. “My hopes for this season are that we genuinely make progress from where we were last year; that we get
that we are going in the right
“I’m often asked what area of the car I’m most pleased with but with the stable regulations we have at the moment it’s difficult to find any major new areas to exploit.”
our heads down and we re-
13 Ret urn to Contents Page
chassis should be strong.”
direction from our own point of view, but we won’t know until Melbourne. As far as this car is concerned, I hope we can win some races. That might sound farfetched after last year, where we struggled at the beginning of the year,
ally develop the car well and hopefully
parts – the suspension, the chassis
but I hope this year we can make a bit
with some performance coming on
dynamics, aerodynamics – that they
of a step power-wise and that will level
the power unit side as well that will
all work together in harmony. I think
the playing field a bit.”
allow us to get closer to some of our
we’ve managed to build on the lessons
Commenting further on simula-
immediate rivals.”
of last year and all the indications from
tion work with the RB12, Dan Fallows,
our simulations suggest that this year’s
Head of Aerodynamics, said: “So far,
Speaking about the design of the
Brand Partners
Commenting on the new car and the season ahead
the numbers coming out of the wind tunnel and CFD are
added: “To be satisfied with the numbers from aero is a big
encouraging. It’s a function of everyone understanding the
word, we are never satisfied. It is a continuous development
car that we had last year but also identifying the challenges
process and we are not looking for absolute numbers, we
we had and really focusing on those and I think we have
are looking for relative numbers compared to others. The
made some fairly big steps forward. “My hopes for the RB12 are that it continues the form that we had with the RB11. Obviously we didn’t get the
progress is significant and
“...the thing I’d really like to see is that the car give us a good foundation for any upgrades we get on the power unit side, from aero and everything else.”
results we hoped for but
we will see if it’s enough.” Looking ahead to the new season, Paul Monaghan, Chief Engineer, Car Engineering concluded: “My hopes for the RB12? I think we have to
we all knew we had a good foundation in the car, in the
focus on just making sure we go to Australia in the best
chassis, and I’d like to see that continue. Also, the thing I’d
state we can be, well prepared and then get the most out
really like to see is that the car give us a good foundation
of the car we can at each race and put ourselves in a posi-
for any upgrades we get on the power unit side, from aero
tion where we can challenge for a podium or benefit from
and everything else.”
anything that happens around us.”
Pierre Waché, Chief Engineer, Performance Engineering
14 Ret urn to Contents Page
Shane van Gisbergen : After winning his Bathurst 12 Hour in spectacular fashion and setting the race record in his McLaren 650S GT3, he also took out the more recent endurance race for the 59 garage at Monza, and race 4 of the TyrePower Tasmania SuperSprint.
Motorsport
Mitch Evans: After scraping the pre-season rust
at Jerez de la Frontera, Mitch is
off ahead of his Barcelona GP2
eager for his season opening race
season tester, and the second test
in Barcelona.
Brendon Hartley: Brendon recently had a nasty crash from first position at the WEC season opener in Silverstone. Thankfully Brendon walked away from the incident unharmed.
Hayden Paddon: Recently at the top of the podium at Rally Argentina, Hayden has sucessfully come out of a head-to-head battle with triple world champion, Sébastien Ogier. Awesome!
Scott Dixon:
Richie Stanaway:
Avoiding drama to bring home a
After qualifying at the front of the
victory in Phoenix, Scott placed
Aston Martin Racing pack, Stanaway
1st at the ‘super-quick’ circuit.
finished 7th in the LMGTE Pro class
This secured his 39th career vic-
in the Aston Martin Vantage GTE,
tory in the Indycar Championship.
with an early exit as the 97 car’s engine failed.
Simon Evans: With the final race for the BNT NZ Touring Cars season coming to a rain-cancelled race, Simon took out the championship by a dominant amount of points! Well done, Simon.
Earl Bamber: Back in the Porsche 911 RSR, Earl took out P3 and finished on the podium with his team at the
15 Ret urn to Contents Page
Sebring 12hour race.
Motorsport
KINSMAN BROTHERS CLAIM PAIR OF ONE-TWO FINISHES AT KART CHAMPIONSHIPS
Auckland’s Kinsman brothers, Mathew
across nine different classes catering
and Daniel, claimed a class title and
for drivers aged from 6 to over 50.
driver having won his first in 1996. And Cambridge ace Andy Schofield
runner-up spot apiece at the Giltrap
Rain played a role on Saturday but
qualified quickest and won both 100cc
Group 2016 KartSport New Zealand
otherwise the weekend’s racing was
Yamaha Light class heats before slip-
National Sprint Championship meeting
conducted in warm, dry conditions.
ping to second behind former inter-
in Hamilton over the Easter weekend.
Mathew Kinsman was one of two
national Josh Hart from Palmerston
The older of the pair, Mathew, earned
drivers to completely dominate a class,
North in the Pre-Final and ending up
his third consecutive national sprint
he and 125cc Rotax Max Heavy title
fourth - behind the Kinsman brothers
title in the 125cc Rotax Light class on
winner Campbell Joyes from Hamilton
and Hart - in the Final.
Saturday with younger brother Daniel
the only pair to qualify quickest and win
South Island class champion Louis
finishing a close second. Then Daniel
both heats as well as the Pre-Final and
Sharp was also unlucky to clash with
won the New Zealand Senior 100c
Final races in their respective classes.
North Island counterpart Luke Thomp-
Yamaha Light title from a fast-finishing Mathew on Sunday.
Several other drivers came close
son early in the Cadet ROK Final after
though. Auckland-based international
winning the first heat and Pre-Final.
The annual Easter event attracted 156
Daniel Bray was the quickest qualifier
That left the title fight to fastest quali-
entries from the country’s top karters to
in the KZ2 class and won both heats
fier Kaden Probst and class National
the KartSport Hamilton club’s Agrisea
and the Pre-Final before losing out to
Schools’ champion Mason Potter with
New Zealand Raceway opposite the city’s
arch-rival Matt Hamilton on a damp track
Potter prevailing in the Final from Probst
international airport, with fast, exciting
in the Final. The win gave Hamilton his
and young Nelson karter Bo Hill.
action - as well as several surprises -
13th NZ Sprint title, the Christchurch
Aucklander karter Ryan Urban also
16 Ret urn to Contents Page
Motorsport
found he had his work cut out defending
while, came in the Rotax Max Junior,
The 12-year-old Takapuna Normal
his 100cc Yamaha Heavy title and chal-
100cc Junior Yamaha, and Vortex Mini
Intermediate School pupil had to take on
lenging for the New Zealand 125cc Rotax
ROK classses.
and beat the best of the class’s current
Max Heavy title he last won in 2014.
Three of the country’s top female
stars to do it, but beat them she did,
Tauranga driver Taylor Harte pipped
drivers were in the thick of the action all
winning the second heat from eventual
Urban for the top spot in Yamaha quali-
weekend in two of the three Junior class-
runner-up and reigning South Island
fying on Friday and won the second
es with breakthrough performances by
class champion William Exton from
Yamaha heat before Urban - who won
Auckland 12-year-old Breanna Morris
Picton, and the Final from Exton and
his first NZ Sprint title in the Midget
who won the Vortex Mini ROK title and
fastest qualifier and heat one winner
class back in 1993 and his class at last
Wellington 15-year-old Madeline Stewart
Connor Davison from Hamilton.
year Rotax Max Challenge Grand Final
who claimed pole position and ending
Finally, Jaden Ransley added a New
in Portugal - prevailed to win both the
up fourth overall in Rotax Max Junior.
Zealand Sprint title to the NZ Schools’
Pre-Final and Final.
Reigning North Island sprint cham-
one he currently holds in the 100cc
Not even Urban could match the
pion Kaleb Ngatoa from Palmerston
Junior Yamaha class, making the Final
pace set by local ace Campbell Joyes
North eventually prevailed in Rotax Max
his after a best finish of fourth through
in 125cc Rotax Max Heavy however.
Junior, winning an all-action Final from
the heats and Pre-Final.
Urban qualified third in that class behind
vAucklander Callum Hedge and Welling-
Wellington driver Ryan Wood ended
Joyes and fellow former class title holder
ton’s other emerging fast female, Rianna
up second afer winning both the second
Simon Hunter from Christchurch, and
O’Meara-Hunt, with Madeline Stewart
heat and Pre-Final, with heat one winner
though he finished second to Joyes in
fourth and fastest class qualifier, class
Tom Greig from Palmerston North third
the Pre-Final, Urban was beaten to the
South Island sprint champion, Joshua
and last year’s Vortex Mini ROK title win-
line in the Final by Joyes, defending class
Bethune from Dunedin, fifth.
ner, Joshua Parkinson from Auckland,
title holder Lane Moore from Australia,
One of the major talking points of
Hunter and emerging Auckland driver
the meeting had to be Breanna Mor-
Keith Wilkinson.
ris’ impressive debut Nationals win in
Some of the closest racing, mean-
improving as the weekend went on to claim fourth.
Vortex Mini ROK however.
17 Ret urn to Contents Page
Volkswagen
second-generation Tiguan The second-generation Volkswagen
MQB component matrix for transverse
Tiguan was unveiled just ahead of the
engine, (front-and all-wheel cars), the
2015 Frankfurt Motor Show.
Tiguan is said to weigh around 50
Against the tape measure, the new
The company says that the Haldex-
wide and rides on a wheelbase that’s
coupled 4Motion Active Control all-
2.68m in length in total, that’s around
wheel drive system available on the
61mm longer and 30mm wider than
new Tiguan can be adjusted by the
the first-gen Tiguan.
driver, via a rotary dial, to suit “all pos-
In base, front-wheel drive trim, the
sible driving conditions”. Volkswagen
new Tiguan stands 1.63m tall, a reduc-
claims that the Tiguan can haul trailer
tion of 33mm. The new SUV has a
loads of up to 2500 kilograms.
co-efficient of drag of 0.31, and Volk-
For those who fancy a little bit of
swagen claims that drag losses have
off-road action, the all-wheel drive
been reduced by 40 percent.
versions of the new Tiguan have an
Cargo capacity has grown, with the
extra 10mm of ground clearance. An
boot now rated to 521L. If the second
optional off-road package is said to
row bench seats are slid forward, boot
increase the approach angle from 18.3
space can be increased to 617L. With
degrees to 25.6 degrees. All Tiguans
the second row folded down this in-
have a departure and ramp angle of
creases still further to 1656L, and the
24.7 degrees.
front passenger’s seat can be folded forward to accommodate long loads. Stylistically, the second-generation Tiguan features sharper lines and creases. Top-spec models will be equipped with dual LED headlights, while, at least in Europe, LED tail-lights will be standard across the range. Based on the Volkswagen Group’s
18 Ret urn to Contents Page
kilograms less than before.
Tiguan is 4.49 metres long, 1.84m
Visit the Giltrap Volkswagen showroom at 100 Great North Road, Grey Lynn or visit their website at www.giltrapvolkswagen.co.nz
New Passat Alltrack. Makes hard look easy.
Passat Alltrack with 4MOTION all-wheel drive
57,990
$
*
• • • • • •
4MOTION all-wheel drive 2.2 tonne braked towing capacity 140kW of power and 400Nm torque Raised ground clearance and under-body protection Driver profile selection including ‘Off Road’ function Transparent service costs with “Volkswagen Service Advantage”
Beneath its stylish good looks the new Passat Alltrack is one hell of a tough customer. So come on in and test drive it today, and make short work of those slippery boat ramps and winding gravel roads.
Giltrap Volkswagen | Auckland | Ph: 09-360 3200 www.giltrapvolkswagen.co.nz *Plus on road costs. Model shown includes optional extras.
NZ Olympic Partner since 2012
Brand Partners
Latvala extends advantage in Mexico
20 Ret urn to Contents Page
Jari-Matti Latvala takes a comfort-
The Finn started with a 32.5sec lead
marathon 80km Guanajuato test, the
able lead into Sunday’s final leg of
over team-mate Ogier but extended
the Rally Guanajuato Mexico after
that to 1min 35.7sec during the long-
“The feeling in the car was brilliant.
an imperious display over sun-kissed
est day of this third round of the FIA
The way Miikka (co-driver, Anttila) read
mountain roads on Saturday.
World Rally Championship, covering
the pace notes was perfect. Every-
longest in the WRC since 1986.
thing has come together. It’s
The Volkswagen Polo R pilot won all six gravel speed tests to add to his clean sweep of dirt road wins, demoralising world
“The feeling in the car was brilliant. The way Miikka (co-driver, Anttila) read the pace notes was perfect.”
consolation in the short spectator stages that closed the third day.
km difference for tomorrow because you can then back off if the tyres or brakes become too hot,” he said.
champion Sébastien Ogier and leaving his rivals to pick up scant
important to have a 1sec/
nine stages and 152.40km.
Latvala’s low start position again
Latvala was eager to build a big
handed him a big advantage with the
enough lead to carry into tomorrow’s
benefit of cleaner roads, swept clear
Brand Partners
of gravel by those ahead. As on Friday,
glanced a bank and the impact broke
Ogier had the hardest job as first in the
his i20’s rear left suspension arm.
Camilli flipped his Fiesta RS onto its
start order and by the middle of the
Further issues for Paddon included
roof after hitting a rock while Neuville
afternoon the Frenchman had thrown
overheating brakes and gearshift prob-
crashed heavily.
in the towel.
lems and he ended 53.3sec behind.
both were in the wars again.
Just two stages comprise Sunday’s
“I’m not really pushing anymore,” he
Ott Tänak avoided serious problems
final leg but they are not for the faint-
admitted, hoping to bank solid cham-
to hold sixth in a Fiesta RS, with Martin
hearted. The action begins with the
pionship points for second in his quest
Prokop, Lorenzo Bertelli, WRC 2 leader
80km test and is followed by the final
for a fourth successive world title.
Teemu Suninen and Valeriy Gorban
live TV Agua Zarca Power Stage, with
completing the leaderboard.
bonus points for the fastest three
Dani Sordo is on course for Hyundai’s third consecutive podium Dani Sordo
Eric Camilli and Thierry Neuville
overcame a host of minor issues to hold
restarted under Rally 2 regulations but
drivers.
third in a Hyundai i20, 1min 04.7sec behind Ogier. The Spaniard struggled to find a balance he was happy with on the slippery tracks, while a spin and a broken fan which caused his engine to overheat cost more time. Andreas Mikkelsen had closed to within a handful of seconds of snatching Sordo’s podium place until he crashed out in this afternoon’s long Otates test. His demise promoted Mads Østberg to fourth, the Norwegian wringing every second out of M-Sport’s Ford Fiesta RS. His fight with Hayden Paddon swung his way when the Kiwi
21 Ret urn to Contents Page
Volvo
The eagerly-awaited Volvo V90 was
range of new opportunities in terms
Visit the Archibald & Shorter
revealed in Stockholm, Sweden. The
of how Volvos can be designed, built
showroom at 550 Great South Road,
stylish and versatile Volvo V90 is the
and equipped.
Greenlane and 20 Wairau Road,
latest in the premium car maker’s top-
The new Volvo V90 delivers cutting-
Glenfield or visit their website at
of-the-line 90 series sitting alongside
edge Pilot Assist semi-autonomous
www.archibaldandshorter.co.nz
the award winning XC90 SUV and
drive technology, the most advanced
the recently-launched S90 premium
standard safety package on the market,
sedan.
with large animal detection and run-
Building on Volvo Cars’ indisputable
off road mitigation, and class-leading
heritage in the estate segment, that
connectivity including smartphone
began over 60 years ago with the Volvo
integration with Apple CarPlay.
Duett, the new V90 takes the premium
Volvo Cars has also worked tirelessly
estate a clear step forward in terms of
on driving dynamics in the new model
aesthetics, materials and finish, while
delivering a totally new and refined driv-
living up to the ultimately practical
ing experience characterised by a sense
nature of any true estate.
of engaging control and predictability.
“We have a very strong position in the estate segment,” said Håkan Samuelsson, President and Chief Executive of Volvo Cars. “In many people’s minds we are known as the definitive estate brand. While the Volvo brand today stands for more than estates, we are proud to carry forward this rich heritage with the V90.” The new Volvo V90 is the third car unveiled in Volvo’s top-of-the-line 90 series, all of which are built on the
22 Ret urn to Contents Page
company’s specially-designed and fully modular Scalable Product Architecture (SPA), which has opened up a
VOLVOCARS.CO.NZ
LET THE AWARDS SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES. NBR, Supreme Car of the Year Award AMI NZ Autocar, Car of the Year AMI NZ Autocar, Luxury Car of the Year AMI NZ Autocar, Safety Award NZ Company Vehicle magazine, Executive Car of the Year Women’s World Car of the Year, Supreme Award NZ4WD Magazine, Luxury 4WD of the Year AA NZ Motoring Writers Guild, Safest Car of the Year AA NZ Motoring Writers Guild, Luxury SUV of the Year NZ Herald Driven, Luxury SUV of the Year
E N O U G H S A I D. The all-NEW XC90 R-design. made by sweden.
The all-new xc90. when all you want is everything. The Volvo XC90 is pure, Swedish luxury. Every surface, stitch and curve has been carefully considered to offer you a heightened sense of driving harmony. And we’ve combined this craftsmanship with an exceptional range of innovations to improve power, efficiency, connectivity and safety. If all you want is everything, it can all be yours from only $97,900. Get behind the wheel and experience this luxurious 7-seater for yourself today.
made by sweden. Volvocars.co.nz. Volvo Auckland Archibald & Shorter Auckland 550 Great South Rd, Greenlane 550 Great South Road, Greenlane 0800 001 362 Tel: 0800 001 362 www.archibaldandshorter.co.nz
www.archibaldandshorter.co.nz
Volvo North Shore Archibald & Shorter North Shore 20 Wairau Rd, Glenfield 20 Wairau Road, Glenfield 0800 001 363 Tel: 0800 001 363 www.archibaldandshorter.co.nz
www.archibaldandshorter.co.nz
archibald&shorter
There is arguably no better way to roam the range in
Land rover
search of prey than from a Range Rover’s throne, so to capitalise on this positioning Land Rover has once again teamed up with British gunmaker Holland & Holland for a new, special edition that comes standard with everything needed for a sporting outing. Almost everything. You’ll have to supply your own Holland & Holland guns, which are available in the United States from a pair of exclusive stores in New York and Dallas, but otherwise the fanciest Land Rover around is ready with a leather and Alcantara-lined gun cabinet that deploys from the cargo area. The cabinet slides out from the Range Rover’s floor and is supported by a deployable loadspace floor that is engineered from aluminium and carbon fibre and finished with, as you might expect, a leather and wood veneer. When they’re not hunting pheasants, the Range Rover’s occupants will revel in sublime, English country comfort inside thanks to a pair of power-adjustable rear seats and walnut tables. Special Holland & Holland stock plating covers the interior door handles to remind buyers that they’re in something as close to bespoke as money can buy today. Just about everything bar the windshield is covered in leather. The Holland & Holland model, which was introduced to Europe in late 2014, tops Range Rover’s lineup, besting the SV Autobiography by the price of a Range Rover Evoque. It’s actually the latest in a series of special editions developed with the gunmaker, but this latest model is certainly the most extravagant yet. Just 120 will be produced by Land Rover’s Special Vehicle Operations. Visit the Archibald & Shorter showroom at 550 Great South Road, Greenlane and 20 Wairau Road, Glenfield or visit their website at www.archibaldandshorter.co.nz
24 Ret urn to Contents Page
DISCOVERY SPORT
MAKE EVERY DAY EXTRAORDINARY.
FROM $78,500* The new Discovery Sport is the perfect car to spark your spirit of adventure, delivering optimum performance both on and off road. Handle any environment with confidence, thanks to the generous wheel articulation and innovative off-road technologies such as Terrain Response and optional Wade Sensing. Beautifully complemented by the luxury interior and deceptively spacious cabin with optional 5+2 seats, now the whole family can explore new terrain in premium comfort. What will your first adventure be? Contact us today Land Rover Auckland 550 Great South Road, Greenlane, Auckland 0800 001 361 Land Rover North Shore 20 Wairau Road, Glenfield, North Shore, Auckland 0800 001 363
* $78,500 includes GST and excludes on road costs
archibald&shorter
geneva motor show
Here are our top picks from the 86th Geneva International Motor Show
26 Ret urn to Contents Page
Bugatti Chiron
Audi Q2
Porsche 911 R
Bentley Mulsanne Grand Limousine
Skoda Vision S Concept
McLaren 570GT
Volvo V90
Volkswagen T Cross Breeze
Lamborghini Huracan LP 610-4 Avio
Volvo V40
Audi S4 Avant
Jaguar F Type SVR Ret urn to Contents Page
Lamborghini Centenario
Jaguar
The new Jaguar F-TYPE SVR is the
this model represented the starting
Visit the Archibald & Shorter
first Jaguar SVR, developed to exploit
point for development of the F-TYPE
showroom at 550 Great South Road,
the lightweight aluminium sports
SVR. Everything which contributes to
Greenlane and 20 Wairau Road,
car’s full potential while retaining its
performance and vehicle dynamics
Glenfield or visit their website at
inherent tractability and day-to-day
has been meticulously re-evaluated,
www.archibaldandshorter.co.nz
usability. The Jaguar F-TYPE SVR
re-engineered and optimised still further.
is a 321km/h, all-weather supercar.
The effort made in developing the
More powerful, lighter, and benefiting
chassis was matched by the work done
from an enhanced chassis and driveline
on the Jaguar F-TYPE S VR’s aerodynam-
and active aerodynamics, the all-wheel
ics. Asked to solve the often conflicting
drive Jaguar F-TYPE SVR Coupé and
requirements of reducing drag and
Convertible deliver supercar perfor-
reducing lift, the SVO team designed
mance - in all conditions - and unrivalled
a full suite of features which work to-
driver engagement and reward.
gether to improve dynamics, stability,
Raising the output of Jaguar’s supercharged 5.0-litre V8 to 575PS and
To cut drag, the front bumper was
700Nm enables the F-TYPE SVR to
extended outboard to mask as much
accelerate from 0-100km/h in just 3.7
of the wheels as possible. This also
seconds. Maximum speed of the Cou-
helps the airflow to remain attached
pé model is 321km/h, the Convertible
to the sides of the car, reducing drag
314km/h.
still further.
The F-TYPE R is already a benchmark in the sports car segment but
28 Ret urn to Contents Page
performance and efficiency.
ALL-NEW JAGUAR XF
A GENTLEMAN UNTIL PROVOKED.
PRICES START FROM $90,000 + ORC
Refined and restrained when you need it to be. Purposeful and dynamic when you want it to be. For the quiet and frugal there is a range of ultradelivers. Put simply, this is not business as usual. #NEWXF Archibald and Shorter North Shore 550 Great South Road, Greenlane, Auckland 0800 001 361 Archibald and Shorter Auckland 20 Wairau Road, Glenfield, Auckland 0800 001 363 archibaldandshorter.co.nz
Bentley
The Bentley Mulsanne Family makes its Debut at the Geneva Motor Show. The newly unveiled Mulsanne model range reaches even greater heights of luxury and performance, setting a new benchmark for rear-seat passenger comfort. Handcrafted in Crewe, the new range comprises the Mulsanne, the performance-focused Mulsanne Speed, and the all-new ultra-luxurious Mulsanne Extended Wheelbase with more rear passenger leg room and airline-style seats. Wolfgang Burheimer, Chairman and Chief Executive of Bentley Motors, said: “The Mulsanne is the epitome of Bentley’s DNA – exquisite, individual and powerful.” Also making its debut at Geneva was the Mulsanne Grand Limousine by Mulliner, showcasing the ultimate expression of
The Mulsanne extended wheelbase is pictured here in Grey, and the Grand Limousine in Blue.
bespoke automotive luxury, craftsmanship, individualisation
30 Ret urn to Contents Page
and refinement. The Mulsanne Grand Limousine is one meter
Visit the Bentley Auckland showroom at
longer and 79mm taller than Bentley’s new Mulsanne and
100 Great North Road, Grey Lynn
features a unique Interior with private-aviation-style seating
or visit their website at
configuration in the rear cabin.
www.auckland.bentleymotors.com
The Choice of the Visionary. The new Mulsanne.
View our striking new model range at Auckland.BentleyMotors.com or call +64 9 360 3200. For those with a vision and the power to bring it to life, there is one car in the world that delivers both a space in which to make plans and the technology to help make them happen: The new Bentley Mulsanne. *Fuel consumption figures subject to Type Approval. The name ‘Bentley’ and the ‘B’ in wings device are registered trademarks. © 2015 Bentley Motors Limited. Model shown: Model Name.
BENTLEY AUCKLAND
McLaren 32 Ret urn to Contents Page
Revealed ahead of the Geneva Motor
comfort. The front and rear anti-roll
litres of space, at the cost of your
Show’s world debut the brand new
bars have been set up to ride better
central mirror.
McLaren 570GT forms the third
over poorer surfaces, which will be
option in the Sports Series range
ideal in New Zealand.
A slightly decrease 0-100 time of 3.4 seconds will be due to the weight of
for McLaren, alongside the 570S
The GT will be a little less noisy
all the luxurious features, but it is still
and 540C Coupes thus completing
than its 570S sibling, with more
the family.
noise insulation, a lot of leather, soft-
The spoiler at the back is 10mm
wickedly quick.
The 570GT is meant to be the more
close doors, heated electric seats, a
higher, and the doors open further
luxurious of the Sports Series with the
combined 350-litre boot volume, and
upwards and forwards, making it easier
goal of targeting both performance and
like the P1, a glass roof which makes
the ability to journey slightly further
the cabin feel much more roomy, even
again to get into the cabin. Visit McLaren Auckland at
than your nearby racetrack, with tweaks
if it does have an 18% tint.
19 Great North Road, Grey Lynn
to both the steering and suspension.
The second boot is under the rear
The dampers at all three settings have
glass hatch and opens from the curb
been fractionally recalibrated towards
side, this gives you the additional 220
or visit their website at www.auckland.mclaren.com
T H E G A ME . C H A N G E D . Sometimes a car will come along that breaks the established rules. The boundaries of progress are challenged. The impossible becomes the possible. Sports Series by McLaren is such a car. It recalibrates the senses. It redefines performance. It changes the game.
McLAREN SPORTS SERIES. For more information contact McLaren Auckland on 09 360 0500 or visit www.auckland.mclaren.com
McLaren Auckland, 19 Great North Road Grey Lynn, Auckland, 1021 09 360 0500 www.auckland.mclaren.com Official fuel consumption figures in UK mpg (l/100km) for the McLaren Sports Series (3,799 (cc) petrol, 7-speed Seamless Shift dual clutch Gearbox (SSG)): urban 17.2 (16.5), extra urban 38.4 (7.4), combined 26.6 (10.7). Official combined CO2 emissions: 249g/ km. The efficiency figures quoted are derived from official NEDC test results, are provided for comparability purposes only, and might not reflect actual driving experience.
Porsche
Porsche’s 911 R is a combination of
The new aerodynamic package was
is a way to make an even more engag-
a lightweight body, an 8800-rpm 4.0
developed for the R, including the deploy-
ing 911, but switch to PDK will make an
litre flat-six, and a proper six-speed
able rear spoiler which rises to a higher
arguably better track lap times.
manual gearbox. The story of its
angle attack than that of the Carrera
And after all, the pressure Porsche
development however, is rather in-
to cope with the R’s additional power.
was put under, we’re very happy this
teresting, as it is a response to those
The engine is the same 4.0 litre, 500
car exists.
who complained about the choice to
horsepower unit from the GT3 RS, but
exclusively use PDK gearbox in the
the gearbox was developed specifically.
Visit Giltrap Porsche showroom at
The R is pitched to have a more road-
100 Great North Road, Grey Lynn
911 GT3 and GT3 RS. The pairing of the high revving natu-
focused alternative to the track-ready
or visit their website at
rally aspirated flat six and a manual
GT3 models. The creation of the 911 R
www.giltrapporsche.co.nz
gearbox was not initially intended, but those who bemoaned the lack of a manual option, including Chris Harris, had a hand in twisting their arm. The development only took a year, given they were not lacking for choice when it came to parts. The body shell is shared with the GT3, and the front splitter from the
34 Ret urn to Contents Page
GT3 RS. The R shares its tires with the GT3, which are slightly narrower than those in the RS model.
For more information on the new 911 contact your Official Porsche Centre or visit www.porsche.co.nz For more information on the new 911 contact your Official Porsche Centre or visit www.porsche.co.nz
For more information on the new 911 contact your Official Porsche Centre or visit www.porsche.co.nz
What Whatdo doyou youdo dowhen whenyou’ve you’vemade madean anicon? icon?
What do you do when you’ve made an icon? Make Makeititagain. again. Make it again. The Thenew new911. 911.
The new 911.from InInshowrooms showrooms from5th 5thofofMarch. March.
In showrooms from 5th of March.
GILTRAP PORSCHE Ph 09 360 3200 GILTRAP PORSCHE Ph 09 360 3200 100 Great North Road, Grey Lynn, Auckland 100 Great North Road, Grey Lynn, Auckland
GILTRAP PORSCHE Ph 09 360 3200 100 Great North Road, Grey Lynn, Auckland
Review
porsche GT4
What do you call a Cayman that handles better than a 911? A GT4.
By: Alborz Fallah – caradvice.com.au The 2016 Porsche Cayman GT4 is a hard car to explain, mainly because the regular Cayman, Cayman S and GTS are already some of the best handling cars for the money. To consider the difference between, well, any Cayman and the GT4 is like comparing your high school crush to Jennifer Lawrence: you’d be happy with either, but… you know what I mean? Around the fast-paced and lively track that is Philip Island, we went through the entire Cayman range, ending up in the GT4 at the very end to find out just how good the latest car from Porsche’s motorsport division is. Powered by the now superseded but still monstrous Carrera S 3.8-litre six-cylinder engine (with different induction manifold and injectors) that produces 283kW of power and 420Nm of torque, the GT4 can do 0-100km/h in 4.4 seconds. In a further 10.1 seconds, it will hit 200km/h. The car is the first road-going midengined car from Porsche to wear a GT motorsport badge.
36 Ret urn to Contents Page
That is really saying something, and
than there isn’t.
it’s a boost of confidence for how far
Its manual-only availability certainly
the second-generation Cayman has
hasn’t deterred any buyers either, of
come since the original first hit the
which there are already over 140 in
market in 2006.
Australia (roughly 50 percent more
The GT4 is available with a six-
than the current Australian allocation).
speed manual gearbox only and, while
Porsche says the GT4 will appeal to
it’s about 0.1 of a second slower to
those that want the performance of a
100km/h than the Carrera S, it’s almost
911 but not necessarily a 911 itself.
in a different league when it comes
Well, let’s be frank for a second, of
to mechanical grip.
all the 911s running around, the icon
While Porsche is adamant that
perhaps no longer draws the eyes of
it’s not just a collection of random
those it seeks. Meanwhile, the Cayman
bits stuck together, the GT4 certainly
GT4 sticks out like Bruce Lee in a sea
shares a reasonable number of parts
of Steven Seagals.
with the hero GT3 car, such as a
Much like the late Lee, what it lacks
great deal of the front end in terms
in sheer muscle, it makes up for in
of suspension and brakes, as well as
technique.
the steering and ABS systems.
Or, in this case, mechanical grip
This is excellent news, because
and dynamics… and that’s not to say
the GT3 is an amazing machine.
the 911 is now an overgrown 63 year-
Nonetheless, there’s more to the
old at the very end of its career, only
Cayman GT4 that is unique to itself
that the GT4 feels sharper and more
Review
porsche GT4
energetic than its comparatively priced big brother. Coming hard out of Siberia at Phillip Island race track and not having to back off, as we’d had to in the three lesser Caymans before it, was a revelation. The GT4 is essentially the sort of car you can take straight to a racetrack and set incredibly fast lap times, one after another (the massive 380mm front brakes can take a hammering). The times are gained not in outright acceleration down the straights, but the speed it can comfortably carry through the corners. The gearbox is super smooth and
heel-n-toe, but you can if you want to.
you’re a traditionalist, it’s not a rear-
will blip the throttle and do a perfect
The Cayman has for long been touted
engined icon. But we predict it will
rev-match on the downshifts, making
as more dynamically capable than
quickly come to be regarded as the
the lack of a PDK gearbox almost a
its bigger 911 brother, but in no other
best handling road car for under
positive. We say ‘almost’ because,
variant is that more evident than a GT4.
AU$200,000, Porsche or otherwise.
ultimately, you’ll be faster in a PDK
Costing much less than a Carrera
We haven’t had a chance to drive it
S - the GT4 provides thrill levels on a
on the road yet, but it’s fair to say that
racetrack that you’ll only experience
its talents are almost entirely wasted
in either a GT3 or a GT3 RS.
being punted in traffic.
version, but that doesn’t exist. Seating position is excellent and the adjustment of the steering wheel and pedal positions made it very easy for us
Of course, it lacks the two additional
Thankfully, though, what makes
to fit in and get going. You don’t need to
seats and, well, it’s not a 911, so if
the normal Cayman a good daily, also seems to apply to the GT4, when it comes to noise, vibration and harshness levels and perhaps even general ride comfort – though we will have to test that separately. In the meantime, GT4s are going the way of the GT3 RS: far more demand than supply. So if you want one, there’s literally no time to waste. For more automotive news and reviews, visit www.driven.co.nz
37 Ret urn to Contents Page
Presented last year simultaneously at the New York and Seoul auto shows, the new generation of Holden’s Spark will be a key player to the company in the micro-car segment. “Spark has been designed to be an extension of drivers’
Holden
lives and personalities. Aside from class-leading connectivity, Spark offers a wide range of genuine accessories to make this car the most individually-customizable Holden ever”, said Mark Bernhard, Holden Managing Director and Chairman. Compared to its former self, the new Spark has a lower profile, thinner pillars, is lower and longer. When you add these to the upgraded materials used inside and the new technologies like CarPlay and Android Auto friendly systems, its hard not to admire what the Spark is. Power to the new Holden spark comes from a new 1.4-litre engine, producing 98 horsepower and 128Nm of torque. Standard features highlighted by Holden include six airbags, all the traction control, features hill-start assist, ESC, EBD, ABS braking and rearview camera.
Visit Giltrap North Shore at 150 Wairau Road, Glenfield or visit their website at www.giltrapnorthshore.co.nz Visit Schofields of Newmarket at 50 Great South Road, Epsom or visit their website at www.schofields.co.nz
38 Ret urn to Contents Page
Silk SCARV ES ARE NO LONGER A LUXURY. THEY’RE A
N EC ESSI T Y
And sunglasses. Maybe those cute gloves. In fact, a new summer dress would be a real investment. But no matter what you want (or need) to wear this season, with its heated steering wheel and front seats, not to mention that it’s designed and made in Europe - the all-new Cascada will work with any outfit. holden.co.nz/cascada
DESIGNED FOR THIS SEASON
C A S C A DA
With a strong Holden presence in the
dropped, (including Fabian Coulthard),
Visit Schofield HSV at
season opener for the V8 Supercars
copped 60-second penalties and were
50 Great South Road, Epsom
the motoring world looked on in nail
sent tumbling down the order.
or visit their website at
HSV
biting awe as storms battered the Clipsal 500 in race 3. If the rest of the season follows what we saw here, we’re in for one hell of a ride. Jamie Whincup took a relatively processional win (in his Red Bull Holden Commodore VF) in the opening race for the third year in a row at the circuit, but things got interesting as the Dark Horse, Nick Percat, was crowned the Clipsal champion. The action on track was bedlam, for sake of a better word, as three days of heat dispersed right before the field took off for the 78-lap main event. Two torrential downpours, multiple safety cars and a temporary cessation of hostilities (with all cars parked up in pit lane) the champion was decided in a four lap sprint that ended at a ‘time certain’ finish. Percat became the first South Australian to win Clipsal because his engineer Chris Stuckey recognised the requirement to dump a minimum 140 litres of fuel into his Lucas Dumbrell Motorsport Commodore didn’t change no matter how long the race. And even though post-race social media erupted (sledging the race control and the V8 Supercars for the way the race had been started and the insistence that the fuel drop be enforced when little more
40 Ret urn to Contents Page
than half the distance was completed), many teams that didn’t get the fuel
www.schofieldshsv.co.nz
Lamborghini
Lamborghini Centenario
With Geneva being arguably the biggest Motor Show in the
approximately NZ$2.86 million.
world, Lamborghini has held nothing back releasing the
Lamborghini describe the car as one that looks to the
stunning new Centenario in a limited run to celebrate the
past and the future, combining both tradition and innovation;
100th anniversary of the birth of their company’s founder,
tradition is in the form of the naturally aspirated V12 engine,
Ferrucio Lamborghini.
while innovation is in the form of Carbon Fibre construction,
There will be 40 models made based on the Aventador
advanced aerodynamics and a new rear-wheel-steering sys-
platform; 20 coupes and 20 roadsters; and they will start at
tem, (the latter increasing both agility and stability). New for Lamborghini is the touchscreen-based infotainment system with internet connectivity and Apply CarPlay smart-phone integration. Performance wise, the Centenario rushes to 0-100 in around 2.8 seconds with a top speed of 350km/h. In his final presentation for Lamborghini, outgoing CEO Stephan Winkelmann, explained the continued strategy of building special series cars like the Centenario and Veneno; they help to strengthen the brand while also enabling the design team to showcase their talents without the constraints of regular series production. Visit Independent Prestige at
42 Ret urn to Contents Page
120 Great North Road, Grey Lynn or check out their website a: www.iprestige.co.nz
Lamborghini Auckland
instinctive technology
LAMBORGHINI HURACĂ N LP 610-4
Lamborghini Auckland Authorised Dealer 120 Great North Road Grey Lynn Auckland Phone 09 360 3202 www.lamborghini.co.nz
Brand Partners 44 Ret urn to Contents Page
Brand Partners
Brand Partners
Strategic placement on site and an
gym, wine cellar, ancillary spaces and
interior that opens up to the seascape
the self-contained apartment.”
are key features of this contemporary coastal residence Homes with the most dramatic out-
On the main floor, the open-plan living
looks often seem to be nestled on the
spaces are white with the blue of the
most awkward sites. In such cases, the
sea almost a component of the decor.
positioning on the property can dictate
This sustainable-energy house is well
the form and flow of the house itself.
The main level is built on a concrete
architect Stephan Meijer for a contem-
slab, which absorbs the sun’s rays during
porary, European-style design with great
the day and releases heat back into the
views from every room, a pitched roof
interior come evening. Deep overhangs
and a self-contained apartment below.
and sun shades both help reduce heat
Plus they wanted a double garage with
gain during the summer.
internal access, and a pool. To fulfil the brief, the house is long and linear, composed with strong forms that create an attractive facade composition. Generous use of concrete and glass is offset by the warmth of Canadian cedar on some walls and Colorsteel roofing in the same wood tone. Faced with a steep site, the positioning and layout of the house was crucial, says Meijer. “As a result, we designed the home formal entry on the top floor. From here, you step down to the main living spaces with the master suite also at this
Ret urn to Contents Page
set up for variable coastal conditions.
For this new home, the owners asked
over split levels – with the garage and
46
The interiors are as generous and simple as the eye-catching exterior.
level. The pool is set halfway between this main floor and the basement level, which has a bedroom, home office,
This home was a highly-commended entry in the 2015 Trends International Design Awards. See the full story here.
Brand Partners
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Skoda vision S The new Skoda SUV is expected at
The combined output is 221BHP and
gen Tiguan, and you can expect it to
the end of 2016 but the company’s
Skoda claims the Vision S can sprint
pack a host of the brand’s ‘Simply Clever’
already taken the wraps off a concept
from 0-62mph in 7.4sec. Its top speed
touches, too, such as in-built umbrellas
version called the Vision S.
is 124mp/h and, on paper, it emits 45g/
and useful luggage storage solutions.
It’s powered by a plug-in-hybrid drive
ŠKODA
system that combines a 1.4-litre tur-
48 Ret urn to Contents Page
km of CO2 and is reputed to average 149mpg.
Skoda CEO Bernhard Maier said ‘This study also demonstrates our most
bocharged petrol engine with a pair of
The SUV can also travel on electric
important future technologies, such
electric motors. One electric motor is
power alone for a claimed 30 miles,
as the plug-in hybrid drive system; a
integrated into the car’s six-speed dual-
thanks to a 12.4kWh lithium-ion battery
similar drive system is also being tested
clutch gearbox, while another electric
in front of the rear axle; and it has a range
for production cars.’
motor powers the rear axle.
in excess of 600 miles if everything
Consequently the Skoda SUV’s hybrid
operates at peak efficiency. Visit the Giltrap ŠKODA showroom at
powertrain grants it all-wheel drive,
Skoda’s new SUV will use the Volk-
and the various power sources the
swagen Group’s MQB platform, which
58 Great South Road, Epsom
ability to work together to deliver the
will also underpin the aforementioned
or visit their website at
most appropriate output at the time.
upcoming second-generation Volkswa-
www.giltrapskoda.co.nz
Audi
Audi has unveiled its new Q2 at the 2016 Geneva Motor
digital instrument cluster, numerous connectivity options; the
Show. The vehicle is compact crossover slightly smaller
latest electronic driver aids such as Adaptive Cruise Control,
than the Q3 and based on Volkswagen Group’s flexible
Traffic Sign Recognition; and lane departure and blind spot
MQB platform.
warning systems.
What’s immediately clear is that the Q2 isn’t a clone of other
The entry-level engine is a turbocharged 1.0-liter three-
Audi crossovers but has independent character within the Q
cylinder, good for about 114 horsepower. It’s mated to a 6-speed
family. This is part of Audi resign boss Marc Lichte’s plan to
manual and spins the front wheels as standard. A quattro
further distinguish models in the Audi lineup, which in the past
all-wheel-drive system and 7-speed dual-clutch transmission
have been criticized for being too similar.
can be added, though. The most powerful option at launch is
The vehicle stands 1.5 meters tall, has an overall length of
a turbocharged 2.0-liter four cylinder with about 187 hp on tap.
4 meters long and is 1.8 meters wide. Key highlights of the design are the signature Single Frame Grille, low rood and unique C-pillar treatment. Inside the dash design is copied from other Audi’s which means you get a number of luxuries suc has an available
50 Ret urn to Contents Page
Visit the Giltrap Audi showroom at 150 Great North Road, Grey Lynn or visit their website at www.giltrapaudi.co.nz
Drive it. Feel it.
The all-new Audi A4. Progress is intense. Experience it today. The revolutionary new Audi A4 has to be driven to be believed. Book a test drive today and experience the feeling for yourself. audi.co.nz/A4
Giltrap Audi 150 Great North Road, Grey Lynn, Auckland Phone: (09) 336 5250 www.giltrapaudi.co.nz
audi a4 By: Liz Dobson, photos by Simon Watts It started life for Audi in 1972 as the 80 sedan, then morphed in 1995 into a global top-seller for the German brand. Now the A4 is diversifying to satisfy changing customer demands. The ninth generation has been launched in New Zealand, providing two petrol and two diesel engines, plus the choice of Audi’s quattro AWD system, while S-Line and now a Design
Review
Audi A4
Line package have been offered for
52 Ret urn to Contents Page
Kiwis to pimp their sedans. In April, the popular Avant (Audi for “station wagon”) will join the sedan models before the Allroad and S4
200 A4s, accounting for 12 per cent of
with potential buyers holding out to
sports versions go on sale in New
total sales for the company, with the
see what it was like. After spending
Zealand.
A3 the top-performing car at 26 per
a day driving the car, I’d expect to see
The 2-litre, 140kW petrol sedan
cent. The SUV models — from the Q3
more than 200 sold in 2016.
starts at $71,900 and the diesel
to the newly launched Q7 — followed
Audi NZ managing director, Dean
equivalent is $79,900, while the 180kW
the trend in New Zealand of taking 36
Sheed, will probably expect a bigger
version is priced at $85,900. Topping
per cent of sales.
total of A4 sales by the end of this year.
off the range is the $106,400, 3-litre 200kW diesel. Last year, Audi New Zealand sold
The 200 sale figure for the A4
“[The A4] is the model we’ve been
wouldn’t have been unexpected for
looking forward to for a while now,”
Audi NZ as it was a run-out model
said Sheed.
Review
Audi A4
The new A4 is 25mm longer than the previous model and has had 16mm added to its width, while the 1427mm height remains the same. The wheelbase has increased by 12mm to improve luggage space. Visually, the A4 has an edgier appearance, with a dominating grille and clam-shell-style bonnet while the light clusters have been designed horizontally to create a wide stance at the front of the sedan. Along the side, the A4 has a sharp shoulder line; the rear continues the horizontal design. Inside, the A4 has a clean, low-profile dash and the sedan gains the virtual cockpit from the Audi TT. The A4 has a dash-mounted MMI display that is designed to look like a tablet while the infotainment system has been updated with smartphone interface, including Apple Car Play that, via a cable, allowed my iPhone content,
Restaurant south of the lake, I opted
a chance to test the TDi’s 3-litre
including texts, to be displayed on the
for the top-of-the-range 3-litre TDI
with 600Nm of torque. A tap of the
MMI screen.
quattro sport A4, paired with a six-
accelerator and it confidently overtook
It also gains Audi’s latest safety
speed automatic transmission. Sitting
a line of particularly slow traffic.
technology, including pre-sense city
on 19in tyres and with a damping
On the post-lunch 100km route back
(where the car can brake autonomously
control sports suspension, it was an
to Taupo past Kinloch, I swapped into
up to 40km/h); pre-sense rear (the
ideal vehicle for the lesser travelled
the 2-litre TDI that produced 400Nm of
hazard lights blink rapidly to warn
route via Benneydale.
torque and was paired with a seven-
vehicles behind you); adaptive cruise
When torrential rain hit during a
control (the car maintains a set
winding steep decline country road,
While the drive — and weather —
distance); traffic-jam assist (the A4
I was grateful for the A4’s quattro
was tamer than the route to lunch,
takes over steering at speeds up to
system to give me reassuring stability.
the overtaking power of 2-litre diesel
65km/h using lane markings); and
The A4’s chassis also came to the
active lane assist, that lets you know
fore with the snaking, slippery route
if you stray out of your lane.
taken at speed, giving the sedan a
On the 220km launch drive from Ta u p o to t h e L a ke l a n d H o u s e Ret urn to Contents Page
reassuring stability on the road. Hitting straight, main roads was
speed auto transmission.
proved impressive. For more automotive news and reviews, visit www.driven.co.nz
53
Lexus has introduced the all-new LC 500h which features the world’s first Multi stage hybrid system, the next generation of hybrid powertrains, specifically designed for performance vehicles. Combining Avant Garde elegance with dynamic coupe proportions, the seductive form of the new LC remains remarkably true to the key design elements, proportions and visual dynamism of the award-winning LF-LC concept
Lexus
car that inspired it. Front and rear wings that house wide, large diameter wheels flare away from the centre position of the occupants, whilst the door sides are pulling inwards to create a powerfully three-dimensional form-in plane view. A new spindle architecture shape also mirrors Lexus’ signature spindle grille.
The new Multi Stage Hybrid System marries the elements of a traditional full hybrid powertrain –including a 3.5 litre V6 petrol engine, a powerful electric motor and a lithiumion battery pack, to a 4-speed automatic gearbox mounted at the rear of the hybrid transmission. The electric motor generates better acceleration feel than a conventional engine, and adding physical gears more closely aligns engine rpm with the driver’s inputs. The result is a much more direct connection between the accelerator pedal and vehicle acceleration, and 0-100km/h times well into the sub-5 second range. The 2017 Lexus multimedia package debuts with the LC, and features faster, more flexible software enabling future enhancements and an updated graphic user interface. Listeners will also be treated to an exceptional audio experience inside the cabin: in addition to the available audiophile-worthy Mark Levinson audio package, a new premium pioneer audio system comes as standard equipment. Visit the Lexus showroom at
54 Ret urn to Contents Page
29 Great North Road, Grey Lynn or visit their website at www.lexusofaucklandcity.co.nz
THE NEW LEXUS RX.
THE BEST FORM OF REBELLION.
Defy ordinary and experience the new RX350 and RX450h at Lexus of Auckland City.
29 Great North Road, Grey Lynn, Auckland City. Phone: 09 3700227
www.lexusofaucklandcity.co.nz
At the Geneva Motor Show this year, Nissan in Europe revealed an exciting glimpse into the future – with the first look at its fully connected vision of the future of mobility in association with renowned architects, Foster + Partners. Illustrated in a stunning two-minute video, featuring the best-selling Nissan LEAF and futuristic IDS Concept, Nissan’s visionary concept explores how our way of living might change as technology develops. The collaboration, which concludes a 12-month partnership, offers a snapshot of what’s to come from Nissan’s vision for Intelligent Mobility – a world in which cars interact with their envi-
Nissan
ronment as populations adopt zero emission, Piloted Drive technologies. Incorporating a range of pioneering Nissan technologies, the vision hints at how vehicle-to-grid, battery storage, wireless charging, autonomous drive technology and over-the-air connectivity could combine to revolutionize how energy is used and distributed across Europe’s major cities. The need for a sustainable and innovative refuelling network is becoming vital as the market shifts toward alternative sources like electric power. Today, more than half (54 percent) of the world’s population lives in cities, and by 2050, seven out of every 10 people will live in urban areas*, so it is imperative that the infrastructure exists to support this growth. Nissan is currently trialling an innovative vehicle-to-grid system in Europe which, when coupled with advances in its second-life batteries, will allow drivers to operate as individual “energy hubs” able to store, use or return clean energy to the grid. Visit Giltrap Nissan at 82 Great South Road, Epsom or visit their website at www.giltrapnissan.co.nz
56 Ret urn to Contents Page
Kia
Inspired by the Kia SportSpace con-
gently sloping, swept-back cabin con-
single oval exhaust and features an
cept shown at the 2015 Geneva Motor
tinue for longer to produce its distinctive
integrated air diffuser, for a sporty finish.
Show, the Optima Sportswagon is
tourer body shape.
Kia’s first foray into its competitive
The overhang at the rear adds greater
available in Europe in a choice of nine
segment. A thoroughly practical ve-
visual volume to the back of the vehicle,
paint colours, and will ride on alloy
hicle for everyday use, the Optima
though this extra mass is disguised
wheels ranging from 16- to 18-inches
Sportswagon will also be among the
elegantly by the raked rear window
in diameter, but we may have to wait a
most stylish cars in its class, with a
and tapering roofline, giving the Sport-
while for New Zealand specs!
long, lean and dynamic profile. The
swagon a genuinely athletic stance in a
Sportswagon retains the same width
typically conservative segment. At the rear of the car, wide LED tail
as the saloon, and grows by 5 mm in
lamps wrap around the corners of the
or visit their website at
height (to 1,470 mm) to accommodate
bodywork. The rear bumper houses a
www.giltrapnorthshore.co.nz
The new Optima Sportswagon features the same sharp lines and smooth bodywork that has come to define the latest Kia models. While the front of the car remains the same as the Optima saloon, its strong, rising shoulder and
Ret urn to Contents Page
Visit Giltrap North Shore at
(1,860 mm) and length (4,855 mm)
the expanded boot.
58
The Optima Sportswagon will be
150 Wairau Road, Glenfield
2016 Kia optima By: Cameron Officer The arrival of the redesigned Kia Optima back in 2011 caught many by surprise as it was a massive departure for a carmaker still finding its voice in Western markets. The Korean manufacturer made much mileage of snaring the talents of design chief Peter Schreyer, having poached
Review
Kia optima
him from Audi. In the revitalised 2011 Optima (the Magentis was known as an Optima in some overseas markets, so this was effectively the sedan’s third incarnation), it seemed the investment in new blood had paid off.
Toyota’s Camry is a corporate catch-all,
open automatically for you if the smart key is in your pocket or bag.
And that model still looks good five
it has always lacked the elegant edge
years down the track; something that
that could push it into the private market
must have been in the back of Schreyer’s
in a bigger way.
mind, because from the outside the 2016 model looks very similar. There is more brightwork around the
The Limited grade adds to the EX with a large panoramic sunroof above, 8in
So with a successful formula in the
colour touchscreen for accessing all
can, you can perhaps see why Kia has
entertainment features (the EX’s screen
erred on the side of caution here.
measures in at seven inches), a beefy
body, specifically down the valance on
Anyway, it’s inside where things have
10-speaker Harmon Kardon sound
each side of the car, sharp new alloy
been stepped up. This is one well-
system, a 4.3in colour TFT instrument
wheels and a restyled take on Kia’s
specified sedan, even including satellite
screen, leather upholstery and multi-way
rather attractive “tiger nose” grille design.
navigation in both grades, along with a
adjustment for the driver’s seat.
Other than that, you’d be hard-pressed
wireless charging tray for compatible
to tell new from old at 50 paces.
smart phones.
As you would expect, there is plenty of standard safety kit here too; Blind
Still, as mentioned, this is no bad thing
The front seats are heated and cooled
Spot Detection and Rear-Cross Traffic
given the success of the original sketch.
and there is a heated steering wheel,
Alert software (on the Limited), airbags
And don’t underestimate how difficult
making the Optima a comfy commuter
all round and a reversing camera with
tool whatever the season.
dynamic guidelines that move with the
it is for some manufacturers to design a handsome sedan; Mitsubishi and
Back seat occupants have plenty of
car to help the driver place it perfectly
Peugeot have struggled with the concept
room at their disposal, as you’d expect
(handy for backing up to that trailer too).
and even Audi has had off years with
from a sedan with a decent 2805mm
Every Optima also features High
the A4/A6 twins (corrected with the
wheelbase. Boot space is similarly
Beam Assist which automatically dips
latest iteration thankfully). And though
decent; 510-litres and the bootlid will
high beam so as not to dazzle oncoming
59 Ret urn to Contents Page
Review
kia optima
traffic, as well as a Forward Collision Warning System and a Lane Departure Warning System. The only gripe I have with the Optima’s interior is the annoying chime that greets and farewells you as you turn the car on or off. It’s akin to the little melody your mobile phone might trill when powering up and rather makes you feel like you’re driving an appliance. If you’re looking for even more practicality from Kia, an Optima Sportswagon has just been announced.
It builds on the sedan with what looks
car such as the Optima. With the sort of
to be a stylish station wagon shape.
style and space it exhibits, the updated
Details on dimensions are scarce at present, but the overseas specification
Optima will surely be turning more heads than ever.
will include sliding luggage rails, 40:20:40 split-folding rear seats and
ENGINES: 2.4-litre four cylinder GDI
a powered tailgate.
petrol (138kW, 241Nm)
Kia New Zealand is currently
PRICES: $45,790 (2.4 EX), $48,990
evaluating the Optima Sportswagon
(2.4 Limited)
for our market; a potential range
PROS: Stylish looks, great level
addition which will no doubt be robustly
of specification in both grades,
debated internally, given New Zealand’s
spacious interior
propensity for SUVs over wagons
CONS: People might mistake your
these days.
new Optima for the old Optima
The same could be said of the large sedan market here, although you
60 Ret urn to Contents Page
can’t discount the broad user-chooser executive audience for a well-specified
For more automotive news and reviews, visit www.driven.co.nz
Review
kia sportage
Kia sportage
By: Cameron Officer Here’s a fact that will make you reassess just how popular Kia’s medium-sized SUV has proven over the last five years; the distributor says that after half a decade’s service, the previous Sportage was still the brand’s biggest seller in New Zealand. Kia dealers firmly believed right up until the last handful of units went out the door that, had there been more vehicles available, the old model would simply keep on selling. Looking at some stats from last year, this fact is less surprising when you consider the Sportage held seven percent market share within the medium
it would seem that philosophy will be
on the side of caution where 2WD is
applied to the new Sportage, with three
concerned for the new model, fielding
engines spread across four grades and
a front-driver in entry LX, EX and Ltd
a mix of front- and all-wheel drive. That’s
grades, but only with the 2.0-litre petrol
a total of nine models to choose from,
engine. The all-wheel drive models mix
so there’s plenty of depth.
and match both grades and engines
Drill down into that medium SUV segment further and Kia is an example
(the 2.4-litre petrol and the carry-over 2.0-litre CRDi diesel).
of a brand directly experiencing the
Every Sportage comes with plenty of
change in SUV buyer behaviour from
standard kit. In fact there’s so much on
4WD to 2WD as an acceptable SUV
offer in the EX and Ltd models especially,
option. Front-drivers accounted for 43
they’ve had to invent a whole new grade
per cent of the total medium SUV market
— the GT-Line, which sits above Ltd
in 2015. Of that 43 per cent, Kia’s previous
— to house all the really good stuff,
2WD Sportage was second only to the
such as 19” alloys, rather attractive
Nissan X-Trail in terms of sales.
two-tone leather upholstery, a wireless
In saying that, Kia continues to err
charging tray to charge compatible
SUV segment. Kia as a whole enjoyed a record year in 2015; 3290 cars sold, taking them to third place in the market growth league table (just behind Mazda and Subaru). And so it goes with the new model; Kia New Zealand general manager Todd McDonald told media assembled for the 2016 model launch that almost all of the first allocation of Sportage has disappeared into the dealer network already, with what McDonald says are many firm orders awaiting delivery. Maintaining a solid mix of models is what kept the brand strong last year and Ret urn to Contents Page
61
Review
kia sportage
phones without fussy cables, a 7” colour
higher. The Sportage’s daytime running
and bushings give a more direct feel
touchscreen with integrated satellite
lights are actually incorporated into the
to what’s happening beneath the car
navigation, a 4.2” TFT LCD instrument
headlight cluster, while every grade
on patchier road surfaces.
cluster, a sporty-looking multi-function
features fog lamps. In all there are three variations on
probably the Sportage 2.4-litre petrol
aluminium pedals to list the highlights.
the grille set-up across the Sportage
Ltd AWD, which feels well balanced and
Overall the standard specification list
range. The GT-Line, for example, features
has plenty of power. The GT-Line feels a
is extensive, with reversing cameras,
exclusive quad “ice cube” LED fog lamps
tad heavier on the move, but the car is
touchscreens, Bluetooth hands-free
to set it apart. At the back, every model
easy to place and very responsive. A lot
streaming capability, a full-size spare
except the entry LX 2WD receives LED
of work has been done to make it quieter
wheel, keyless entry, Hill Start Assist
tail lights, while all models feature a roof
too, with sound deadening material
software, six airbags and a host of
spoiler and roof rails.
used liberally during construction; the
safety-related acronyms in every single Sportage.
Line, 17” and 18” alloys are also available.
end result is a Sportage that feels very refined and enjoyable to drive.
Inside the nicely detailed cabin,
With the updated Optima sedan
upholstery, while Ltd and GT-Line grades
passenger space has increased, with
arriving soon, Kia NZ have a lot on their
feature smart boot technology and
headroom for both front and rear
plate during the first quarter. Based on the
an electronic park brake. Blind Spot
passengers and legroom millimeters
evidence thus far, the Sportage should
Detection and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
all expanding. Again, Kia has achieved
comfortably set the tone for success.
software is present on EX, Ltd and
a neat trick here, as the Sportage’s
GT-Line cars.
C-pillar is swept back to look much
But beyond the brochure bulletpoints,
lower in profile; it doesn’t look like a car
what else has improved with the 2016
that should boast more headroom in
line-up? Three factors really stand out;
the rear, but it does.
and handling.
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In addition to the 19” alloys of the GT-
Every grade except LX features leather
exterior styling, interior space and ride
62
The sweet spot in the range is
steering wheel, paddle shifters and
The 2016 Sportage has grown externally too; it’s 40mm longer in total
The fourth generation Sportage
with a 30mm longer wheelbase. Ride
does a neat trick of looking exactly
and handling has greatly improved.
as you expect a Sportage to look, yet
The old Sportage featured a bit of
somehow entirely different from the
a lumpy ride quality and a fair bit of
previous iteration. Up front everything
road noise in the cabin. But all that has
has been finessed, with a new take on
been improved here; revised bushing
Kia’s hallmark ‘tiger nose’ grille design
mounts are positioned for greater
and headlights that are now positioned
stability and stiffer wheel bearings
ENGINES: 2-litre petrol (114kW/192Nm), 2.4-litre petrol (135kW/237Nm), 2-litre diesel (136kW/400Nm) PRICES: $35,990 (LX 2WD), $38,990 (EX 2WD), $43,990 (Ltd 2WD), $41,990 (EX AWD Petrol), $45,990 (Ltd AWD Petrol), $51,990 (GT-Line AWD Petrol), $44,990 (EX AWD Diesel), $48,990 (Ltd AWD Diesel), $54,990 (GT-Line AWD Diesel) For more automotive news and reviews, visit www.driven.co.nz
Cool cars & great deals
Welcome to another edition of Cool Cars and Great Deals. In this edition I want to talk about the campaign to get the World Rally Championship back to New Zealand. As a New Zealand owned company, huge motorsport fans, and supporters of Hayden Paddon, we desperately want to see a New Zealand stage added into the WRC calendar. In the past, this has been referred to as the best rally of the series by many competitors. Whilst we are not a Hyundai dealer, we would like to still ask you to get behind us to show your support by sharing this video on your
social media: https://www.facebook.com/HyundaiNZ/ videos/1085877414804518/ Don’t forget to add #?BringBackWRCRallyNZ to your post! While I want you to support the rally coming back to New Zealand, I also want to sell you a car so please check out all the cool cars and great deals below. Michael Giltrap Joint Managing Director, Giltrap Group
2016 Kia Sportage GT Line 2.4 AWD 2016 PRE-REGISTERED GT LINE AWD
apply emergency braking accordingly
2.4L PETROL ENGINE.
to avoid or reduce the impact.
The all new Sportage has been com-
$51,990 Alby Peterson apeterson@giltrapmotors.co.nz
021 905 643
pletely redesigned; fluid curves flow
GT LINE Features:
harmoniously in to striking angles
Premium Chrome finish
to create the next evolution of New
Panoramic sunroof
Zealand’s most popular Kia! The GT
High-gloss grille
Line introduces the Kia Sportage to a
Bi-Xenon HID headlights with
whole new level of prestige and style.
washer/auto level
Turning heads with its sophisticated
Striking quad LED fog lamps
attitude and powerful on road presence,
19” GT Line alloys
the GT Line is packed with stunning
Two-tone GT Line leather
features inside and out.
Smart hands-free power tailgate
The GT Line has some very cool
Ventilated front seats
new tricks like the Auto Power Rear Door; just stand at the rear with the
The GT Line comes with the Balance
key for 3 seconds and away it goes!
of Kia NZ’s comprehensive support
Also, the Auto Cruise Control and Auto
package: 5-year/100,000kms Kia War-
Emergency Braking System make
ranty Program, plus 5-year Roadside
you feel very safe, if you were to get
Assistance and Incident Care.
distracted while driving, as it uses radar to sense a potential collision will
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63 Ret urn to Contents Page
2016/2017 Nissan GT-R
Cool cars & great deals
More than 20 years after the origi-
64 Ret urn to Contents Page
nal “Godzilla” starting tearing up
New MODELS: Premium, Premium
hearts and minds with stupefying
Luxury and the incredible new Nismo-
acceleration and very high handling
engineered Track Edition.
half-a-million Supercar pricing.
Gary Cutfield
more CHOICE.
the tracks, the GT-R is still winning
limits, but without the
Register Your Interest
More POWER, more TECHNOLOGY,
More, More, More.
Coming soon to Giltrap NISSAN. Register your interest, and we’ll be in touch with arrival dates and availability.
The soon-to-arrive new model GTR is bursting with MORE.
gcutfield@giltrapnissan.co.nz
09 522 9925 View More
2015 Jaguar XJ-R 5.0 Supercharged A fantastic opportunity to own this fine example of Jaguar’s flagship saloon at an amazing price. This is the stunning Jaguar XJR: 5.0L Supercharged V8, 405kW, 0-100kmh in 4.6 seconds. This vehicle has very low kms so is virtually as new condition;
$139,990 Ben Harris
complete with the balance of its new car warranty. The new replacement cost is over $220,000. Amazing buying.
ben.harris@archibaldandshorter.co.nz
021 566 290 View More
Volvo V60 Cross Country D4 AWD Luxury
$71,990 Tony Knaggs
New Zealand New Volvo V60 D4 All
The V60 CC Comes Standard with
Wheel Drive Luxury Cross Country:
Xenon Headlights, Memory Seats,
five-cylinder turbocharged diesel,
GPS Navigation, City Safety, Bluetooth,
140kW. Fantastic savings of $11,060
Digital Speedometer and much more.
at new replacement price of $83,050.
Optional features include: heated
Compared with the regular V60 wag-
front seats, sunroof, Shimmer Graphite
on, the Cross Country variant boasts
Decor, metallic paint and SUV Tint Rear
an extra of 65mm of ground clear-
5 Windows.
ance. Visually, the V60 Cross Country is distinguished by its front and rear
skid plates, wheel arch extensions and tony.knaggs@archibaldandshorter.co.nz revised sills.
021 528 211 View More
Cool cars & great deals
2016 Holden Astra GTC Sport | 6 speed manual Red-hot from Europe, the new Holden
infotainment system with 6 speaker
Astra has the go to match the show.
premium audio, giving you a very up
Super sharp looks, pinpoint handling
to date tech vehicle.
and cutting edge turbo performance are just the start.
$31,990 RACE AWAY! Mark Peyper-Smith mpeypersmith@giltrapmotors.co.nz
027 556 4777
Astra GTC comforts include: leather and heated front seats, 6 way electric
Surprisingly spacious for a compact
adjustable driver seat, dual zone cli-
hatch, the new Astra is power-packed
mate air, rain sense wipers and Intel-
3 Door luxury ride. The 1.6 Turbo Petrol
ligent High Beam. The Exterior Styling
engine has an impressive 147kW @
of this vehicle is astoundingly sharp,
5500rpm, 280Nm @ 1650-5000 rpm;
and with the 19” alloys and rear spoiler,
offering you a very agile and effort-
this car is most definitely a COOL CAR!
less machine; it simply gets up and performs on your command. The Astra GTC Sport is equipped with 7 inch screen with GPS, and Holden Mylink
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2015 Lexus RC350 F Sport
$85,000 Ryan Stamp
Finished in stunning Titanium and
With approximately 2,000km on
the F Sport Black leather interior,
the odometer it’s close to new and
this striking two door luxury coupe
comes with the balance of the 4 year
includes F Sport detailing such as
Lexus New Vehicle warranty and full
the standout mesh spindle grill, 19”
maintenance service package.
alloys and LFA-inspired dashboard.
Ask about the special benefits a
The interior exudes sporting luxury in-
Lexus purchaser gets when buying
cluding heated and cooled sport seats
from Lexus of Auckland City.
and the 17-speaker Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound System.
rstamp@lexusofaucklandcity.co.nz
021 046 6959 View More
2014 Jaguar F-Type 3.0L V6 Supercharged Only 3,900 kms, and one owner. A beautiful Unique Green exterior colour contrasts well with the Smooth Cirrus Interior. This model has been upgraded to inculde: 20” alloys, memory seats, Parking Pack + reverse camera, and Blind Spot Monitor. The condition
$134,990
is as new, with the balance of its new warranty.
Graham Hare graham.hare@archibaldandshorter.co.nz
021 991 802 View More
65 Ret urn to Contents Page
Cool cars & great deals
2016 Holden Cascada
66 Ret urn to Contents Page
$126,990 Richard Behagel rbehagel@schofields.co.nz
Convertible motoring as it should
front seats, dual zone climate A/C,
be; an uncomplicated and electric
electrics (of course), Bluetooth, cruise
soft top, which by the way, is fully
control, airbags, reversing camera and
lined and has a glass rear window.
sensors, ABS and stability Control, to
The latest offering from Europe, the
name but a few.
new Cascada has a very clean bo-
Click the link for the full list, or better
dyline and a design which is sporty,
still, come on in and check it out for
thanks to its 20” alloys; yet exudes
yourself. This is really a very cool little
understated elegance.
convertible.
A hit from the day it arrived, the exterior looks are matched equally by the quality leather interior: heated
09 520 6369 View More
2014 Aston Martin DB9 Coupe The quintessential Grand Tourer, the
car has over $34,000 of Carbon Fiber
Aston Martin DB9 Carbon Edition.
extras over and above a standard DB9.
The new generation engine, adaptive
“The DB9 is one of the best, if not
suspension, and transmission layout
the best, big GT cars in the world”.
gives the DB9 well balanced handling.
AutoCar UK.
Its drivability could be argued as the best in the GT sports car market seg-
$275,000 Andrew Szczepanski aszczepanski@iprestige.co.nz
ment. The subtle luxurious finishing touches underpin the exclusivity of the Aston
Replacement cost inclusive of On Road Costs is $375,000. This is a special opportunity to purchase a near new DB9 that has travelled less than 5600kms.
Martin. Being a Carbon Edition, this
021 636 743 View More
Volvo V40 Cross Country AWD T5 NZ New high spec Volvo V40 T5 Cross
These optional features provide this
Country. SAVE $11,735 on New Re-
V40 with the ultimate safety and com-
placement Price of $77,725.
fort; not to mention, original character.
180kW, 8 speed transmission, Xenon headlights, navigation, reverse
At such a spectacular price it is not one to be missed!
camera, Bluetooth, climate control and memory seats!
$65,990 Tony Knaggs tony.knaggs@archibaldandshorter.co.nz
This outstanding vehicle is also fitted with Volvo’s Convenience Pack: heated front seats, keyless drive & entry and 19” alloys.
021 528 211 View More
Cool cars & great deals
Lamborghini Gallardo LP 550-2 Coupe Just arrived: The 2012 Lamborghini
only one in NZ. As a Limited Edition
Gallardo LP550-2 Limited Edition
Lamborghini this car is very competi-
Tricolore. This car is highly optioned
tively priced at $249,000.
with LED and transparent bonnet package, leather interior trim, forged alloy wheels, rear view camera and front lifting system.
$249,000 Andrew Szczepanski
Travelled only 9,300 kms. This Gallardo LP 550-2 is a Lamborghini Limited Edition car and the
aszczepanski@iprestige.co.nz
021 636 743 View More
2016 Holden COLORADO Z71
$49,990 drive away James Dobbie jdobbie@schofields.co.nz
Schofields Holden is pleased to offer
2.8L 4X4 Auto Diesel
this icy cool DEMO Colorado Z71 Auto
Just DEMO kms on the dial!
at an incredible price!
RRP $65,990 + ORC
The Colorado Z71 is designed to be
This monster comes with thousands
distinctive at first glance, surround you
of dollars of extras! 20� alloys, tow bar,
with technology and loads of style, de-
deck liner, tints and monsoons.
liver unbeaten 3.5 tonne towing capac-
Looking COOL in Phantom Black.
ity and 500Nm of torque, and keep you
Now just $49,990 drive away
and your cargo safe. As comfortable taking on the worksite as taking on the
Contact James Dobbie to arrange a test drive!
weekend, the Colorado has whatever it takes to get the job done.
09 520 6369 View More
2015 Bentley Continental GT V8 S Travelled less than 4,000 kms. Finished in Ghost White exterior
Paul Shorter pshorter@giltrapprestige.co.nz
Carbon Ceramic brakes With red brake
paint, together with an interior combina-
callipers
tion of Beluga and Fire Glow leather.
Carbon Ceramic rear brake discs
The V8 S is equipped with a 4 litre
$309,990
Options:
356x28mm: Vented & Cross-Drilled
twin-turbocharged V8 that produces
Cruise control system
521 BHP (388 kW) @ 6000 rpm and
Rear view camera (in addition to Park
680 Nm @1700rpm, and the beautiful
Distance Control; front & rear)
ZF 8-speed transmission (Quick shift),
21� Six Twin Spoke alloy wheels
which allows the car to reach 60 mph
(painted)
in only 4.3 seconds
Naim For Bentley Premium audio system
021 878 555 View More
67 Ret urn to Contents Page
Thanks See you next issue