Bay Driver

The Bay’s largest circulating, most read newspaper.

Plenty of ‘top end’ vehicles to be found in Tauranga.

See pages 8 - 9

63,050 copies

LIFTOUT

Friday 15 July 2011

Understated luxury Lexus RX350P See page 4

Friday 15 July 2011

Inside this issue Citroen C4 Chris Verryt Cars

Page 3

Lexus RX350P Pacific Toyota

Page 4

Luxury Vehicle Feature

Pages 8-9

Runva Tough Truck Challenge Page 15

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Friday 15 July 2011

Friday 15 July 2011

Weekend Sun Friday 15 JulyThe 2011

Bay Driver

...for all bookings contact Gaylene Moore 021 775 505 email: gaylene@thesun.co.nz

phone 07 578 0030 fax 07 571 1116 email ads@thesun.co.nz No.1 The Strand, PO Box 240, Tauranga 3140 www.sunlive.co.nz

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The Weekend Sun

Bay Driver Friday 15 July 2011

Friday 15 July 2011

Affordable French chic The Citroen C4 Grand Picasso injects a bit of French flair into the “boxy” look of most people movers.

When it comes to buying a family wagon with seven seats, it is easy to feel like you are stuck with two extreme choices. There’s either a high riding people mover that might be a little on the large side or an SUV that is barely able to fit those last two seats in without completely eliminating whatever boot space was already there.

It was a pleasant surprise then to experience the vehicle offered as this week’s Blackboard Special at Chris Verryt Cars on 15th Avenue. This smart and chic French-inspired Citroen C4 Picasso provides a welcome alternative to the other two options…plus it’s a thrifty diesel that swallows stuff like a python, but cruises like a six cylinder sedan.

The magic about this machine is the Citroen engineers have managed to fit so much space into a vehicle not much longer than a conven-

tional car. At 4.5 metres, it has a very compact footprint. But hop inside and you’ll find a cabin that is flooded, cathedral-like, with light – some of which comes through a genuinely unique front window arrangement where the narrow split of the “A” pillars adds to the airy spaciousness of the cabin.

There is also an idiosyncratic ‘Frenchness’ about the Picasso that extends beyond the stylish exterior and through to the steering wheel design, which has a fixed central hub which the wheel rim revolves around where you find fingertip controls for almost everything on board. This even includes the gear select, which is a hockey-stick-like shift protruding from above the steering wheel mount. It’s a quirky placement that you soon get used to and is easily mastered for either auto driving or flicking into manual for the super smooth six speed transmission.

The rear middle seats are extremely adjustable, offering multiple settings for support and fully capable of folding flat. If you do this to the very back seats as well, you end up with a mass of space in the back with an entirely flat floor space…in fact, it’s a whopping claimed 1950 litres.

When you are carrying kids rather than cargo, the absence of a centre console between the front seats increases leg room for the middle rear passenger hugely, leaving them well capable of adopting the classic ‘teen slouch’ on the next family road trip. A very effective four zone climate system provides tailored temperature and air delivery to not only the two front and two rear passengers, but also to the very back seats as well.

The Picasso’s controls are all digitised and very easy to use, dismissing any reputation the French may have established for making things trickier than they have to be. Even the dash is digitised and, being slightly off-set, it makes for very wide, open vision in front of the driver. With the rest of the vehicle dropping away in the front, you get an almost surreal sense of ‘floating’ through the landscape. The sound system is also

Friday 15 July 2011

This week Blackboar d Sp’s ecial: What? 2008

Citroen C4 Grand Picasso - NZ NE Where? Chris Ve W rryt Cars, 10 Fiftee nth Ave, Tauranga: Phone 07 57 1 29 91 Power: 2.0L turbo diesel Transmission: 6speed auto with tiptronic Safety: Traction control, ABS bra kes, eight airbags Features: Easyto-use steering wheel controls, four-zone air co nditioning, cruise control, chiller fridge, premium sound system, “su pe sun visors, folddown trays, fold- r-smart” flat seats.

Mileage: 12,650k m Price: $ 36,995 We Like: The ver satility of multip le seating and storage options, quality on-road performance and superb Frenc h chic.

The dash layout and steering wheel is a unique combination of digital display and easy-to-use controls.

a decent unit, matching the grand light-filled space in sound and nicely concealed behind a pop-up fascia.

On the road, the Picasso is, as expected, definitely more of a cruiser than a racer. It offers a very smooth, cushioned ride well suited for longer distance family road trips. It is also a very family friendly wagon within and not only thanks to all that space – there are stacks of extra storage cubby holes throughout the cabin, including two pop-up dashboard holds, storage under the floor of the boot and even a fully chilled fridge unit up front.

Like all cars Chris Verryt sells, the Picasso presents beautifully, being well-finished outside and in. For the money, it also offers a saving of more than $10,000 on the new price, despite being as good as new with 12,600km on the clock.

NZ NEW

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Friday 15 July 2011

Friday 15 July 2011

Weekend Sun Friday 15 JulyThe 2011

Bay Driver

Beautifully constructed SUV The Lexus RX350P

The Lexus RX 350P is an understated luxury vehicle that makes an ideal choice for someone who has “arrived”, but doesn’t need to shout about it.

SUV market. The RX hit the market in typical quiet fashion, just as all the big European brands were starting to make their mark in the parking lots of the ‘better’ kindergartens and schools through the country.

There is a magical sense of understatement in any Lexus you are lucky enough to get your hands on…either to own or just for a morning jaunt through busy Saturday morning traffic.

Understatement is Lexus’s byline. Its earlier cars were well built, but understated to the point of being slightly boring.

Nowadays, they are much easier on the eye and I still think the IS250 is one of the finest looking sedans around. They are also beautifully constructed, offer quality drives and carry their luxury badge without any “look at me” pretension.

So it is with the Lexus RX350 – this week’s feature car. It is eight years since Toyota’s premium brand launched its take on the luxury

From first glance, it is clear how much time and money must have been spent by Toyota arriving at a more aerodynamic shape for the RX – claimed by some to be the most beautiful SUV in the world. It is, at least, the sleekest – having been developed in the same wind tunnel used to design the iconic bullet train. It makes for a welcome respite visually to the usually dominating profiles of most SUVs, particularly the Euro counterparts that the RX is pitched so firmly against. It creates the impression of a smaller, more compact footprint than it actually has.

Inside the cabin, anyone who has had the pleasure of driving a Lexus sedan will appreciate the same well-laid-out, easily-mastered controls, with an emphasis on ergonomics rather than smarty pants technology. What technology it has is an integral part of its function, rather than an add-on “flashing light” variety.

The auto shift is placed high up the dashboard and it has an American-style foot operated parking brake. The absence of both from the centre console adds an even greater sense of spaciousness to the RX cabin. There is a ton of room between the driver and the front passenger.

Lexus RX350P Engine: 3.5L petrol Power: 240kW@6000 rpm Torque: 346Nm@4700rpm Transmission: 6-speed auto Wheels: 19 inch alloys Safety: 12 airbags, ESP, Traction Control Suspension: Front – independent struts, springs, gas dampers. Rear – trailing arm, double wishbone, independent with stabiliser bar Features: Heated leather seats, keyless entry, automatic wipers, rear view camera, nine speaker sound system with MP3 input Fuel Efficiency: 10.5L/100km (claimed) Price: $69,990 Test Drive at: Pacific Toyota Cnr Cameron Rd and Elizabeth St, Tauranga.

Phone 07 578 1099.

Aerodynamically perfect

Loaded with extras

The RX tested is the entry level machine that may be lacking some of the bells and whistles that accompany the top of the line model; like the high tech eight inch control screen that is navigated mouse-style by the driver. Nevertheless, its absence does not diminish from the driving experience.

The 350P still has most of the extras you would expect including; heated seats, MP3 hook up (buried deep in the centre console), auto wipers, full leather, power seats and smart key entry – that eliminates the need to unlock the vehicle yourself. There is also an impressive nine speaker stereo, with its clarity and depth of

The RX350 has a unique SUV body shape designed in the same tunnel as the bullet train. sound making the cabin feel even more refined.

In the back, passengers will appreciate the welldesigned and comfortably supportive seats that include a well-laid-out, fold-down centre console. The rear boot space is also very generous and will double should you have to fold down the rear seats to accommodate awkward loads.

Punchy power

Power comes from a punchy 3.5 litre petrol that is no slug on the open road. It pushes the RX easily to the legal limit through a six speed transmission, with plenty to spare and all done with discreet effortlessness of course. There is also no intruding roar when you push things along and the six speed auto is a beautiful match for delivery. The auto drives through any combination of front or rear wheels and, with the option to lock up the centre diff, it will get you up any civilised mountain…if and when there is enough snow to make that trip worthwhile.

For day-to-day open road travel, the RX350 comes with a handy “economy” band indicator, giving you a clear impression of just how efficient your driving is. When combined with an auto transmission that has artificial intelligence to adapt to driving style and situation, you have a big engine machine that can still manage a claimed 10.5L/100km on the open road.

That crooked “L” on the Lexus grille may denote a conservative luxury brand, but unlike that infamous crooked “E” that Enron carried, this is a brand built on intense attention to integrity, quality build and ergonomics. It promises to keep paying you back too, even when you go to sell it. Skim through used car prices in any guide and the Lexus will consistently hold its value well above the average.

These cars are assembled in specially designated plants by veteran technicians and it is easy

Rear load space is very generous.

A clever device; the rear view camera is built into the rear view mirror. to see why this brand has been named “most reliable” by vehicle assessor JD Power 14 times since 1995 and is consistently among the US Consumer Guide’s most reliable vehicles.

By Richard Rennie

The Weekend Sun

Bay Driver Friday 15 July 2011

Friday 15 July 2011

Friday 15 July 2011

Page 5

Pacific Toyota

VIEW MORE QUALITY CARS ON www.pacific.toyota.co.nz

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Friday 15 July 2011

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The Weekend Sun

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Bay Driver Friday 15 July 2011

Friday 15 July 2011

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Friday 15 July 2011

Friday 15 July 2011

Weekend Sun Friday 15 JulyThe 2011

Bay Driver

Luxury vehicles hit the mark in Tauranga Cars for sale are easy to find in the Tauranga region. In any week, there are thousands locally advertised online and in publications like Bay Driver.

But it is a little different for those who are looking to buy a luxury vehicle. Because of the investment involved, buyers are understandably a lot more careful about their choice of vehicle – and more importantly, who they buy it from.

It is comforting to know that no matter whether a buyer is a long-time Tauranga resident or recently moved into the area, all the major brands are sold and serviced right here through a network of fully authorised franchise dealerships.

Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Volvo, Jaguar, Lexus, Audi, Range Rover, Skoda and Volkswagen are all marketed

locally by experienced professionals who know their products and pride themselves on providing only the very best sales and after-sales service.

Rapid advancements

The last five years has seen huge advancements in the design of luxury cars and the technology built into them. European vehicle sales manager at Ebbett Tauranga, Peter Findlay, has just returned from Melbourne where he attended the launch of the all-new Range Rover Evoque. Due for release in New Zealand in November, this is the “greenest”, most fuel-efficient Range Rover ever made. It will be available in coupe and five door versions and, for the first time ever, in a two-wheel-drive variant – although it will be to customer order only.

“It was pleasing to see that Range Rover are still building for strength, but by using lighter weight materials, they are achieving greater fuel economy and lower emissions,” says

Jaguar XF

Peter. Ebbett Tauranga is the local agents, not only for Range Rover, but also Land Rover, Volvo and Jaguar.

Graham Matassa of Papamoa is a Jaguar owner who enjoys the customer service he has received. He purchased his first Jaguar XF from Peter after moving to Tauranga from Auckland five years ago. Graham recently upgraded to the new XF-R model and is thoroughly enjoying his new “toy”.

“I’ve been a car enthusiast for more than 30 years,” says Graham, “and this is by far the best car I have ever owned”.

“It has perfect handling, comfort and braking – and it’s nice to look at.

“Dealing with Peter and the team at Ebbett Tauranga is very reassuring too. They look after us very well.”

Germanic genius

Of course, one can’t talk about technological advancements without making note of three of Germany’s leading brands;

Brand specialists; Blair Woolford, VW and Danny Price, Audi, are proud to demonstrate their leading brands to local people.

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The Weekend Sun

Bay Driver Friday 15 July 2011

Friday 15 July 2011

Friday 15 July 2011

Page 9

Discerning customers appreciate quality BMW, Audi and Volkswagen. BMW, which is represented in Tauranga by Coombes Johnston BMW in Hewletts Road, Mount Maunganui, is enjoying excellent growth in market share with new models such as the X3 creating huge interest since the start of 2011.

This trend looks set to continue with the imminent launch of the all-new M Range of high performance vehicles, including the 1 Series Coupe and the spectacular V8 BMW M5. These are “cars for the purists amongst us”. The M5 will be on display at Coombes Johnston at the end of July.

Audi and Volkswagen is also marketed and serviced in Mount Maunganui by Farmer Autovillage. Audi is another marque that has increased its market share during recent years to become the number one selling luxury brand in New Zealand; volume-wise, for the last four years. But one of the surprise performers in the ‘high-end’ car bracket this year, is Volkswagen.

VW brand specialist Blair Woolford tells us Volkswagen passenger vehicle sales were up 40 per cent at the end of June compared to the same period in 2010.

“VW have leapt ahead in their assembly and technology this year,” says Blair.

“Their build quality and finish represent superior value-for-money, even on entry level models.”

The two Volkswagen flagship SUV models have contributed to these sales results. Demand for the Touareg in particular is exceeding supply around the world and the Tiguan – always a huge seller in New Zealand – has achieved the status of the number one selling compact SUV in Europe this year.

Blair says a new facelift model Tiguan is arriving at the dealership in September, so perhaps anyone keen on one of these “beauties” should phone Blair to register their interest before they all drive out the gate.

Lexus is another brand that enjoys strong global and local support. It is marketed and supported here by Pacific Toyota.

Sales manager Chris Churchward says Lexus is actually the biggest selling luxury brand in the world, assisted by its strong support from American motorists.

Pacific Toyota is one of only seven Lexus approved dealerships in New Zealand, able to sell their pre-owned range and to source and supply new vehicles to customers’ orders directly from Lexus New Zealand. They also offer full on-site Lexus service facilities using fully qualified technicians, including one master technician.

“We are proud to be associated with the Lexus brand and to be able to provide local customers with the superior sales and service that the brand demands,” says Chris.

Amazing people; outstanding service

Perhaps what exemplifies best why discerning customers choose to buy their luxury cars right here in Tauranga, is the experience shared with us by one of Ingham-Sears customers Sally.

Ingham-Sears, located in Totara Street, Mount Maunganui, is the local Mercedes-Benz dealership. Sally, who unashamedly confesses that she “loves nice cars”, was drawn not only to the new 350ML she recently purchased, but also to the warm welcome she received from the people there.

“I had a dream to buy a Mercedes-Benz when I was 40,” says Sally.

NOBODY EVER REGRETS BUYING QUALITY

The Mercedes-Benz specialists at Ingham-Sears; Jason Smith, Paul Oliver and business manager Jodie Horsburgh.

“Although I may have been a tiny bit older before it happened, I have now owned two of these beautiful cars.

“I appreciate the effort that clearly goes into designing and constructing a Mercedes-Benz – and this model is perfect for me with its step-in, step-out access.”

Sally also appreciates the way that sales consultant Jason Smith and service manager Paul Oliver go out of their way to make buying and owning her Mercedes-Benz an effortless experience.

“The people at Ingham-Sears and the facility are amazing and a big reason why I buy from them.”

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Friday 15 July 2011

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The X240 4WD The X240, The Great 4WD of China Thethe X240, Great China and V240The Dual Cab,4WD The of Great Ute and the V240 Dual Cab, The Great Ute of China, just got Greater. They’ve always of China, just got Greater.

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The Weekend Sun

Bay Driver Friday 15 July 2011

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Friday 15 July 2011

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Friday 15 July 2011

Friday 15 July 2011

The 2011 Weekend Sun Friday 15 July

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Friday 15 July 2011

Friday 15 July 2011

The 2011 Weekend Sun Friday 15 July

Bay Driver

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The Weekend Sun

Bay Driver Friday 15 July 2011

Friday 15 July 2011

Friday 15 July 2011

Page 15

Rough trucks rip up new course

Aaron Smyth with his 4WD turbo powered off-road machine.

The annual ‘rally on steroids’ tears up new ground this weekend, with the 2011 Runva Tough Truck Rotorua Challenge taking on the muddy roads of the TECT All Terrain Park.

Previously held at the Mamaku Ranges, organisers Geyserland 4WD Club relocated the event this year, enabling a setting for spectators to be part of the thrills and excitement of the off-road racing trucks.

Four wheel drive trucks equipped with V8s and turbo chargers will thunder and grind their way through the Te Matai Block between Whataroa Road and Te Matai Road.

The challenge involves several classes for 4WDs; standard for a 4x4 with minimal modification, club for entry level and challenger or premier for more advanced.

Battling 18 stages of rough off-road track – including deep mud bogs and steep inclines – the trucks race individually against the clock.

As part of the race, a winch challenge is set to test not only the driver, but the co-drivers ‘winching’ abilities. The co-driver must get out of the vehicle and winch the 4WD through the muddy track, attaching rope onto whatever tree they can find.

Event organiser Daniel Waugh says the event began in the 1990s with standard four by four vehicles, before morphing into the turbo-charged race truck event it is today.

“The rules are there to cater for all classes of four wheel drive.

“Some get through the stages easier than others, but the rule is they need to be done at each stage in 30 minutes or they fail to finish the stage.”

Defending champion Aaron Smyth is up against nine others in the premiere class. He says the competition will be good fun, but hard work on the new track.

“With a different track, I don’t know if the track will be too tight or how windy it will be around trees.”

After competing in the challenge for eight years, the mechanic says he is technically still driving the same vehicle from when he started, but you wouldn’t know to look at it.

“It has the original diesel engine, except it is turbo now and I made modifications to the suspension, added roll cages and

$139 p/week

completely changed the chassis.”

Aaron got his first win last year, saying he had always been too eager in previous years, causing serious mechanical damage to his engine. The aim to retain this title then is to go steady and make it to the end of each stage.

It is not all Aaron’s skill that got him to the top last year though, acknowledging he is lucky to have a “young and fit” co-driver, Doug Cooper.

“A big part of doing it quickly is Doug getting out there with the rope around the tree and getting the truck through the mud.”

The event begins on Friday – competitors only – with spectators encouraged to come and watch on Saturday, July 16 from 8am until 5pm and Sunday, July 17 from 8am until midday. A gold coin donation goes towards Lions Rotorua.

Gumboots are seriously recommended.

For more information email Daniel waugh@scionresearch.com

By Laura Weaser

Page 16

M SALE

Friday 15 July 2011

Friday 15 July 2011

The 2011 Weekend Sun Friday 15 July

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