May 2016

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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Navigate Left or Right Buttons to Explore the Article

Zoom In and Out Buttons to Explore the Article

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

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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.

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opening comments 4

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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.

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Shifting Gears

Staff Updates

Giltrap group

8

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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

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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-

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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-

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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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2016/2017 Nissan GT-R

Cool cars & great deals

More than 20 years after the origi-

64

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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

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Cool cars & great deals

2016 Holden Cascada

66

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$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

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Thanks See you next issue