Letters Page

1/7/2008

I've pored over the so-called leaked pix of the new Mazda3. If the production version looks anything like that concept car or whatever it is, the new 3 will make Mazda a lot of money. I will buy one. It looks like a cross between the Mazda2 and Mazda6, only with even more style. If it is legit, well done Mazda!

- Rosco

1/7/2008

Commenting on your pictures on of the new Mazda3, it's okay but there are already some handsome small cars you can buy today, not in two years. The new Ford Focus for one, the Astra Coupe for two, and the Toyota Corolla is not ugly and is also the best selling car in Australia. The Mazda3 will attract attention at first, but I think the devil will be in the details.

- Ben Hauer

1/7/2008

Did you actually time the 0 - 100 for the WRX STI or just quote Subaru's figures? I ask because you didn't make it clear and other reviewers have quoted different figures.

- Sydney P.

Editor's Note: The 0-100km/h times are Subaru's claimed figures.

27/6/2008

Interesting feature on the price of petrol. I'm keen on buying a 100 per cent electric vehicle but right now there aren't any options in Australia. I guess I'll have to wait until the new decade, but I think the first company to release one in Australia is going to make a lot of friends. A lot of people I talk to are of the same opinion that high petrol prices are here to stay, so I'm looking at ways I can reduce my reliance on Middle Eastern oil.

- Jackson M.

27/6/2008

An excellent review on the Holden Utes - I'm going through the same process with the new wagon.

- David Till

Editor's Note: Thanks for that David, and we'll be reviewing both V6 and V8 variants of the new Holden Sportwagon at the national media launch in July, so stay tuned for that one.

27/6/2008

I think your reveiw is crap the Captiva does have sencers and is more safer then a Ford Terratori because it has Anti-lock Braking System (ABS,Traction Control System (TCS,Brake Assist (BA),Electronic Stability Program (ESP ,Descent Control System (DCS) and Active Rollover Protection (ARP) and i can see fine because i own one.

- A. Master

Editor's Note: Were you drunk when you sent this email?

27/6/2008

The letter from Damien made a couple of good points about the state of traffic congestion in our country, but cars are not just going to disappear overnight. There are more cars on our roads so for time being we need more roads to cater for drivers. Car pooling is easier said than done, and when you have an almost 200km round trip cycling is not really an option.

- Brent

27/6/2008

I own a Holden Captiva LX diesel. It has done 22,000km, the fuel economy has improved since new but is still no where near what Holden claim. The best is 9.5 litres per 100km. Is the fuel economy likely to improve more?

- P. Corfield

Editor's Note: With 22,000 clicks on the clock I'd say you're probably not going to see too much more of an improvement in fuel efficiency. It should be noted that diesel engines take a lot longer than petrol engines to bed in and tend to reach their peak later in life.

19/6/2008

Greetings.

Read your article on the new EastLink tollway/highway in Victoria. My opinion: it may work at easing congestion on some roads, but the highway itself will be horrific at peak hour. I don't even live in Victoria, but I think making more roads that feed more traffic into city centres is not the answer to traffic problems. I believe that more trains should be built instead of roads - imagine what could have been built for $2.5 billion? There's less environmental damage too. And have we all forgotten about car pooling? Next time you drive to work, count how many cars there are with just the driver. It's appalling to see four empty seats per car.

Another idea would be to become like Holland and give cyclists priority with raised express bike paths. As we all know though, governments have vested interests with big business, so these things will never happen and we'll just have more roads, more cars, and more stress for drivers.

- Damien

19/6/2008

Hi! Could I request a feature to put the Road Tests in alphabetical order?

Thanks,

- J. Dutoit

P.S. How often is a new road test added?

Editor's Note: Thanks for the email Mr Dutoit. First question, no. Second question, it varies. We'd like to say one review per week, but in reality it's more like once a fortnight.

17/6/2008

Hi Wombat motoring staff,

Thank you for some of the best reviews of the new Falcon range. I think Ford have really achieved a winner with the styling, particularly in looking at the evolution from AU to BA/BF to FG.

I was wondering, could you interview Steve Park, Simon Butterworth or Scott Strong regarding the styling evolution of the Aussie Falcon over the last 15 years? I would be fascinated to read their take on the development of AU, the pressures and success of BA, and then the development of FG. It (FG) is a very mature design and I would love to know how it evolved in their minds during the last decade.

And, could you ask them to make an XR6 wagon?

Cheers,

- John

Editor's Note: Thanks for the email John and though I don't want to make a promise I cannot keep, we will talk to Ford Australia about trying to tee up an interview with Scott Strong, the FG's chief designer. As for the XR6 wagon, I'll ask about it but I'm not sure that my industry 'pull' will be enough. Still, you never know your luck in the big city.

17/6/2008

To Kane: at least HSV can put good looking cars on the road and put a great V8 engine in, unlike Ford which tries pumping a turbo in an ugly car. As for the GT? It just sucks, the engine sucks and it looks ugly.

Compare FPV F6 with a FPV GT, F6 would win: compare a FPV GT with HSV GTS, and the HSV would win! To Code, very well said. While HSV gets technology all the time, Ford is still lagging around. They haven't even got ESP, just this dumb excuse called DSC.

FPV is a parody of HSV. HSV has been around Aus for 20 years, FPV is only around for 5 years and all they do is just tune up the engine of their Falcon: no real change. As for Holden, they are on top. Ford is skating on thin ice, which is only held up by their small amount of fans. I've researched FPV's sales for last year. HSV sales were 500+ a month, FPV barely got over 200 sales.

- Lachlan

17/6/2008

Hi. I was just wondering on your thoughts when comparing the Ford XR4, and a Mazda3. A Mazda3, 2005, SP23... Compared to a Ford Fiesta XR4 2007 model. It's my first car, and I am an 18 year old male.

Thanks,

- James

Editor's Note: For mine it would be the Fiesta XR4 all the way. If you're a big bloke, the Mazda3 SP23 will offer more room and will probably suit you better, but in terms of driving pleasure the XR4 is a lot more fun. Not to say the SP23 doesn't have any character, it's just not as rewarding when pushed to the limit.

17/6/2008

Nice review [Holden Astra SRi Turbo]. I could not stand the review at Autospeed by Julian Edgar about the Astra SRi Turbo on 6 February, 2007. His comment of 'For some people but not us' is stupid and implies some will love it but not brilliant motoring writers like him. 

Some of the things he said about the car were dumb. Your publication is a lot fairer and unbiased. 

His website publication is good for some but not me.

- S.R.

17/6/2008

Hi. Very nice review of the VW Eos. I have one myself and find that there is more flex in the vehicle than is perhaps acceptable with today's technology. It is one sweet car, however.Also, CSC stands for COUPE-SUNROOF-CONVERTIBLE. The ONLY sunroofed convertible on the market today!

- Roland P.

6/6/2008

Road report for Skoda Octavia / Roomster lists Road Noise as a Con. Does this apply to both models? I have the Octavia on my short list (along with VW Jetta) as possible replacement for my 10 year old Hyundai Sonata V6, itself very quiet. One thing I do like is a fairly quiet drive. Is one of these models (Octavia or Jetta) better than the other in this regard?

- M.G.M.

Editor's Note: The main reason for the Skoda Octavia's road noise during our first drive was the tyre choice. We later tested the 1.8-litre turbo Octavia and found it be much quieter on the road. It had different tyres to most of the cars we tested at the launch. Though it would be hard to say unless we had the cars side-by-side, I don't think there'd be too much difference between the Jetta and Octavia in terms of road noise if they both fitted with the same tyres. For me, the Octavia is the better all-round car.

6/6/2008

Does the Tiguan get a proper spare tyre or one of those useless, dangerous space savers?

- Klaza

Editor's Note: Hi Klaza, and thanks for the email. I wish I could say "full size" but for packaging reasons the Volkswagen has equipped the Tiguan with a space saver spare tyre.

6/6/2008

I'd take a seat in the corner if I were you Kane. Your sarcastic dimwitted comment linking HSVs with high-school dropouts just makes you look like an elitist tool. You accuse HSV of having decades old technology when the Falcon's motor dates back to the dark ages. As for the immature remark about traffic light drags, you better hope your FPV can travel 400m without overheating and blowing a turbo. 

Performance king? I don't think so.

- Code

5/6/2008

Howdy Wombat.

When do you reckon you would review the new Subaru Forester manual '09 and the new Mitsu Outlander manual '08 - both 2.5L, as I am interested in buying one of them?

Cheers,

- Orla

Editor's Note: Thanks for the letter Orla. We tried to tee this one up, but the scheduling was against us I'm afraid... We've driven both (Forester review soon) and I think the Forester is perhaps slightly better, particularly off road. But then again, the Outlander was slightly more fuel efficient. Both good cars, but I'd lean towards the Subaru personally.

5/6/2008

I have a Peugeot 308 on order in Perth W.A. and it is at least 3 months wait FYI :(

- Hammo

Editor's Note: It's often the case with new European imports - especially popular ones like Pug 308 - that demand is exceedingly high in Europe. This means that supply doesn't always match demand in a country like Australia, situated thousands of kilometers away. The shipping takes a considerable amount of time, and the first shipments are usually quite small. The same thing is happening with the new Tiguan - only 750 vehicles arrived here initially, and VW is waiting on more shipments to arrive each month.

5/6/2008

How big is the boot to the Outlander: can it fit 5 suitcases??

- Anita

Editor's Note: The Mitsubishi Outlander boot is rated as having a 1119 litre boot, which is pretty large. I think if the suitcases weren't too large it could swallow them up. If you fold the rear seats down you get 2056 litres of space, which is almost enough room for small gymnasium.

29/5/2008

Quick note on the new FPV cars, they look good to me. Lachlan R. you're clearly an HSV man and there's nothing wrong with that. Heaps of high-school drop-outs like HSVs and decades old pushrod technology. Oh, and when the new FPV F6 lines up at the lights, you better hope your HSV has been modified because otherwise your pride is gonna be bruised. Everyone with a half a brain knows the F6 is the new performance king.

- Kane

29/5/2008

Hello,

I am just curious about price difference between BMW X5 3.0d and 530d. I believe they are the same engine (probably the X5 one is tuned slightly better). 

How come their price is about $30K apart? Why is the 530d a lot more expensive? I heard that SUV has lower import tariff (5% vs 10% for normal car). But how can this 5% difference translate to $30K?

Thanks.

- R. Susanto

Editor's Note: I couldn't answer that myself, so I asked BMW's PR & Corporate Communications Manager, Toni Andreevski. Here's what he said: "Regarding your letter writer, the answer lies in a mix of standard spec differences, import tariff variation and the inflationary effect of Luxury Car Tax (25 per cent of $57k [possibly rising to 33 per cent with new tax laws]). Of course, all manufacturers price products based on market factors also. For your background info, the price difference is not $30k. An X5 3.0d Executive is $96,300. Add a few STD spec items to reach a similar level to the 530d, such as Active Steering ($2,700), metallic paint ($1,700) and USB interface ($600) and the price difference is much closer ($101,300 versus $115,000)."

29/5/2008

Okay, I've got a question - how come there are so many f**cking idiots on the road? The number of dipsh*ts who sit in the right-hand lanes on the freeway never ceases to amaze me. Anyone seen those "keep left unless overtaking" signs? 

And another thing - rising petrol prices are good. It forces people to stop using fossil fuels and makes car companies, transport companies, truck makers, airlines and other manufacturers think twice about the vehicles and machines they make and buy. Less reliance on Middle East oil, and more renewable fuels I say.

- M. Poole

16/5/2008

Geeezz, how ugly is the new FPV range? And not to startle up the Ford fans, but it seriously is!

I think FPV's gone all wrong, by putting powerful engines in and making an ugly chassis... I think this all just to try and have a go at Holden. FPV's main reason it was created was to go tackle HSV, while HSV is world class and takes on the Euro big guns.

The orange and black paint job is the worst I think, then the blue and white.

The GT-E is supposed to be a luxury car, what's with the hood? It makes it uglier if you look at it from the side!

Ford has gone out of Control.... Holden's way better.

PS. There's a new HSV Tourer R8 Sportwagon coming out in August......

- Lachlan R.

14/5/2008

Re: luxury car tax increase - seems like a good way for the government to raise a few dollars without hurting the local industry or the average car buyer HOWEVER, it should immediately be applied to big SUVs regardless of price. Anything to slow the growth of the Toorak Tractor numbers would make the roads safer and reduce our carbon footprint.

Additionally, as people swapped the Aussie station wagon for a (usually) imported SUV it harmed local producers by reducing their already small production numbers, so reducing SUV sales may bolster GMH and Ford at a time they desperately need some support.

Cheers,

- Bob Jay

14/5/2008

I like the way the luxury car makers such as BMW and Audi come out bleating about how the new LCT will affect safety and fuel consumption and how it's an anti-green campaign. Makes me laugh. These luxury car CEOs are fluffed up salesmen, plain and simple, and they're just towing the company line. They're just protecting their hides as they'll lose their rich CEO bonus if sales drop.

I do agree with Audi's boss though. There should also be tax increases on high end jewellery, pleasure boats and private jets when its applied to luxury cars.

- Martin

13/5/2008

Increased luxury car tax? Forget it. There needs to be increased taxes on EVERY car. There should be a CO2 tax like in London. 

The smaller and more efficient the car or engine, the lower the tax. That would mean gas guzzlers like SUVs and big V8 sedans like the SS Commodore would be slugged hard. Cars like the Nissan Micra and Fiat 500, diesel cars and hybrids would be cheaper and more people would buy them, reducing CO2 from transport over time.

- Macca

13/5/2008

I don't see how increasing luxury car taxes is going to help anyone. For the record, there are quite a few locally made cars that cost more than $57,000, including numerous cars carrying HSV and FPV badges, and even a few with Ford and Holden badges. I think it's just the Rudd government making a point that the Howard years are over.

- F. Jackson

13/5/2008

Just like to say something about the new luxury car tax. About time! Malcolm Turnbull, himself one of the elite few who has a multi-million dollar bank account and no doubt drives a luxury car, has his head in the clouds.

I'd like to know how he thinks adding 8% to the price of luxury cars will raise the price of all other motor vehicles? It'll increase inflation will it? Mate, everything increases inflation these days. Make a salad sandwich at home and inflation goes up, watch the footy and inflation goes up. This is a good move as these imported luxury cars are destroying the local car making industry as well, hurting local jobs and families.

Regards,

- Joe

12/5/2008

BMW 335i Coupe or Audi S5? Liked your review of the BMW and I've also test driven both and yes they are both good German cars. I've sort of made up my mind but am interested to see which you would choose.

Keep up the great yarns.

Cheers,

- Max

Editor's Note: Well Max, if I had six-figures-plus sitting around and wanted a fierce German sports coupe, I'd be happy with either but would probably opt for the Audi at the last minute. On paper both vehicles are very impressive with storming performance and plenty of prestige, but at the end of the day I prefer the look of the Audi (LED running are still rare - for now) and the V8 engine has a glorious note under full load and quattro AWD gives it reassuring traction. Then again, you could chip the biturbo 335i Coupe and have the ultimate V8 slayer. Decisions, decisions...

12/5/2008

Hi Wombat staff.

Just wondering what your thoughts are on the Kia Magentis or the Hyundai Sonata. I feel they look pretty sharp in terms of pricing and equipment. Will they be a liveable prospect compared with the usual mid sizers. I'm not a badge snob as long as the Kia or Hyundai are decent.

- Cartman

Editor's Note: Thanks for the email. We haven't driven the Kia Magentis but we have taken the Sonata for a drive and in terms of value for money it's a very good buy. Hyundai is making some pretty swish cars these days, including a rear-wheel drive V8, and the recent model Sonata's could easily be described as liveable prospects.

2/5/2008

Just read that article about the plug-in hybrid system you can retro-fit to your car. What a marvelous idea! I understand it was just a technology demo in the UK, but if a company could develop a system for around $15,000 or $20,000, I'd buy one for sure. That way I could keep my 2001 Alfa Romeo and get even better fuel economy while reducing my impact on the planet's biosphere.

In the next 10 years we'll see more and more government incentives and rebates for things like that help reduce CO2, as the Rudd government will be getting extra tough on emissions in the future.

More innovations like this please!

- Roger 

2/5/2008

Feann, I am thinking of buying a new diesel small car and have read great reviews on the following two: Ford Focus diesel and Holden Astra diesel. I'm also considering the Mazda3 diesel.

What would you recommend having driven two of the three in terms of handling, price, economy etc?

Thank you,

- Stefanos

Editor's Note: Thanks for the email Stefanos. In terms of pricing the Ford Focus diesel is a bit cheaper than the Astra - $27,990 compared to $29,990 - and for my money the Focus has a better chassis as well. It also has slightly better fuel economy than the Holden, but out on the road there's not a lot between them in terms of economy. I'd pick whichever one you like the look of best because they're both great little diesels.

1/5/2008

I have this model Pajero and have been using it to tow a pop top caravan (Jayco 5.5 metre). It will pull the van at highway speeds of 100km/h pulling 2000rpm on the flat and giving around 15.7L per 100km overall. 

This is much better than my previous car which was a Prado petrol and the Pajero is much more comfortable on the road at these speeds too. Around town driven conservatively  with the air conditioning running, 11.7L is about the best I can get. 

- Wildan 

24/4/2008

I have a question about the FG Ford Falcon - does launch control on the XR6 Turbo come with both manual and auto, and do you have to push a button or something like that to engage it? Also, is launch control available on the G6E Turbo?

Otherwise, great work on the site, keep up the honest reviews.

- David

Editor's Note: G'day David. The launch control system is only available on one model - the 6-speed manual XR6 Turbo. The 6-speed automatic models don't get the feature, and because the G6E Turbo Falcon's are automatic only, they don't get it either. To engage the system is simple - no buttons, no switches. Foot on the clutch pedal, just whack the XR6 Turbo's gear shifter into first gear when the car is stationary, and bury the throttle. The revs whiz up to 3500rpm instead of bouncing off the rev limiter and depending on how you modulate the clutch and throttle, you can leave in a real hurry with or without plumes of tyre smoke. And yes, it's a lot of fun.

24/4/2008

Question relating to the acclaimed VW Golf GTI DSG. I've got (and can't stop smiling everytime I drive my) Golf GTI DSG. And then for a treat once every few days, I flick over to the APR Stage 1 ECU upgrade. Feann Torr - if you have not had the pleasure, do yourself a favour and sample one. And post a review! Only downside I see in this upgrade is that there's no torque limiting in first gear - 188kW is over the top for 2 front wheels - but short shift into 2nd for amazing performance; 400Nm of torque in 3rd or 4th gear...outguns even a APR modified R32 in a straight line. Not bad value for $45k on the road... 

Anyway, onto the Golf GT DSG that my wife drives. In manual DSG mode, I agree with everything that Peter said in his review. But would you guys please confirm for me that in "D" auto mode, the TSI engine "hesitates" as the supercharger is mechanically engaged. Or is our car faulty in some way? I went back to my VW dealer and drove an identical car, and it was the same. Yet every Australian review I've ever read about the TSI engine sings praise over how smooth the transition is from supercharger to turbo when accelerating. 

I noticed Jeremy Clarkson (Top Gear) rated the TSI as a "terrible engine - a man walking down a set of stairs in calipers with 2 broken legs would be smoother than than"!! Anyone else got a Golf GT DSG care to comment?? Other than that, yeah it's a superb bit of technology at the entry cost. And most days just as satisfying as my GTI to drive. Oh and are you reviewing the BMW 135i Coupe on Australian roads soon? I'm over front wheel drive....

- Scott T.

Editor's Note: Thanks for the email Scott, and the APR modded Golf GTI sounds like a real weapon. We'll see what we can do about reviewing one, and in response to your question about the TSI engine, during the launch drive of the Golf GT I agree that a subtle shift can be detected when the turbo and the S/C work. That said, I don't remember it being like an invalid falling down the stairs. Still, there is a noticeable shift if you look for it. As for the BMW 135i, we don't have one booked at the moment, but we have just reviewed the new 335i coupe with the same engine which may be of interest.

23/4/2008

I owned a [Honda] Legend for six months, and found it to be the most impractical car I've ever had. They drink more fuel than a V8 - 14 litres per 100km. And require premium when you can buy it, but use 92 for long and see who will pay for the repairs NOT HONDA. I had a crunching noise going from drive to park witch went on for 3 months, nothing done. A $74,000 car no help from Honda. I now own a Toyota Presara and am over the moon with it - 10 times better than than the Honda and $25,000 cheaper. HONDA: stick to motorbikes and lawnmowers.

- Peter C.

Editor's Note: Sounds like you got a dud Peter. The Honda Legend we road tested was not what I would call impractical, no moreso than a Commodore or Falcon. It sounds like you screwed the car yourself. If you knew that 92 RON fuel would shag the car, it would seem counter productive to fill it with this fuel. Even so, I would have thought the engine could cope with at least a bit of low grade fuel. How many times did you fill it with the lowest grade of gasoline? Honda has a reputation as one of Japan's premier engine builders with the kind of reliability that's the envy of many companies, and it sounds like you have an axe to grind than anything else. Still, send in the exact details, and we'll ask Honda's head office to have a look at it.

17/4/2008

The G6e has a Holden 6.0 V8? That's a scoop.

- Des

Editor's Note: Ah yes, very amusing. The sentence you're referring to reads "It has scintillating acceleration thanks to a Holden 6.0-litre V8-equalling 270kW" but I can see how you may have misunderstood. I will change it to read something less confusing, so try refreshing the page tomorrow.

17/4/2008

Hey, nice work on the Falcon first drive road test. You say you drove all of them and that the G6 and XR6 were the best value, but I'm wondering which of these two are the best? I've got around $40k to spend and I like the look of both. Duties would be split half and half between family and personal pursuits.

- Mike

Editor's Note: I'd be leaning towards the G6. It's got a bit more luxury and though it's also got a slightly softer and more compliant suspension tune, it can still belt around your favourite stretch of blacktop as it gets 17-inch wheels like the XR6. The front end of the G Series Falcons look pretty spiffy too, but ultimately either model is a good value buy in my opinion.

17/4/2008

Enjoyed your review on the Nissan Micra. This car belongs to the "Light" car category which I have been looking at recently. I am not aware of any manufacturer offering cruise control in these vehicles, even as an option. Similarly stability control is to my knowledge, only available as an option with the Mazda 2 and upmarket Peugeot 207s (maybe there are some others).

Cruise control is a nice driver feature to have and stability control should be available for all new passenger vehicles - if not mandatory, then at least an option. I am hoping this situation is likely to change for the better in the future.

Cheers,

- Colin Luxton

Editor's Note: G'day Colin, and thanks for the letter. The Micra does indeed belong to the 'light' car segment as it's officially termed, but I personally reckon that's an daft way to describe the smallest cars in the industry. To my mind a 'light' car doesn't come across as smaller than 'small' car. Compact works for me.

14/4/2008

The new Falcon is a very slick looking vehicle, I think it's a good evolution of the previous design. The new XR models look fantastic and don't mind the new G Series too.I'm looking at trading in the old Camry and getting an XR6 with the 5-speed auto.

I've read most of the major newspapers and websites reports on the new Ford Falcon and most of them thought the same thing, that the new model is a better quality car and better to drive than before. When most car journalists thought the previous Falcon had better dynamics than the VE Commodore, does this mean the gulf between the big Ford and the big Holden will be even wider?

Nice write-up, and can't wait to test drive the new car.

- Peter

Editor's Note: Indeed, the general consensus amongst the gathered media during the national launch was very positive. The FG Falcon is hard to fault and even the entry-level XT model is a composed vehicle. As for the gulf between Ford and Holden? We'll know for sure when we pit them against one another in a comparo, and don't expect Holden to sit back idly either. You'll see some new stuff from Fisherman's Bend soon enough.

14/4/2008

Where on earth are you hiding the really important stuff like vehicle dimensions? Certainly not in the road test.

- Wayne H.

Editor's Note: Hmm... I'll assume you're talking about the new FG Falcon, so we'll get some stats up for you this week. Generally speaking it's a larger car in every dimension - width, height, length.

14/4/2008

I am considering buying either an '02-'03 Lexus LS430 with 70k+ or maybe for roughly similar money a new Honda Legend - which incidentally seems a little derivative of the Lexus in the area of cabin layout and features.

What are your thoughts?

- John B.

Editor's Note: Thanks for the email John. I think it depends a little bit on what kind of person you are. The Honda Legend is very well engineered and will provide you with as much - if not more - refinement than a 5-year old Lexus LS V8. However if you're after a something that conveys your status, the Legend can blend into the crowd a bit, while the Lexus has a more imposing character. Personally I'd go for the Honda myself because it's AWD, but neither option will cause headaches.

28/3/2008

"If you bought the first generation 350Z, should you upgrade to this newer model? I'm not 100 per cent sure about that one, but I'm leaning towards a yes." 

I'm in a dilemma similar to your comment above, I have a 2003 Nissan 350Z manual and can't talk myself into the extra $30k for basically the same car. The only week link on original 350 was air intake and exhaust with that done I keep the torque, increase power and loose a few rev's on new car. 

Life's hard!!!

- Richard S. 

28/3/2008

Great Lancer review! Can I ask in your opinion is it cheaper buying the ES and then upgrading privately with the $4k? Same question if you buy the VR and spending the extra money to modify it yourself? By yourself I still mean pay a private auto shop to do the job. Will you get more that way OR is it better to just pay for the higher model and get the original from the dealer? 

Thanks,

- D.F.

Editor's Note: Thanks for the email. It all depends on what you're wanting from your transport. If you're planning on never selling it again and keeping it forever (or at least ten years or so) you could probably have more fun shopping for parts on Ebay and then paying an auto shop to do the labour. However, modifying cars generally reduces their resale value, especially popular makes, like Corolla, Mazda3 and of course the Lancer. If it's just a short term purchase you're probably better off just getting the VR. 

28/3/2008

In regards to your article on the Web called "Road Test: Pontiac Trans Am".

It made mention of how good the right-hand drive steering conversion was. A friend of mine has bought a '78 Trans Am and the right hand drive conversion for it is down right dangerous. Would you know how to get in contact with the person or company that did the right hand drive conversion for the car in your article?

Many thanks,

- Brett Deneen

Editor's Note: The Trans Am we tested had an exceptionally good conversion - virtually flawless - and I'll get in touch with the owner to find out if he can help. From memory it was a mate of his who did the conversion, but I'll mail you back with details when possible.

18/3/2008

Well, I've owned a Mini Cooper S for a few years now and I love it. This new Mi.To from Alfa Romeo, well I have to applaud the Italian company. I like the design and the switchable chassis settings are something that would appeal to me as someone who likes to drive cars for fun and satisfaction, not just for transport.

However, I'm ready not ready to drop my Mini just yet. I think the new Alfa will take time to build appeal and if it's not coming for another 15 months that means more sales to the Fiat 500 and Mini Cooper. More competition is a good thing I think, as it will drive Mini to make better cars.

- K. Andrews

18/3/2008

I'm also sufficiently old to remember Romsey Quints (his column was titled 'Of cars and men' if I recall) but the real reason for my post is that I need to contact John Maroulis who posted on 28/2 as I now own the Welsor Clubman he drove in 'unsorted' form at Bathurst.

- Rob Kilpatrick

13/3/2008

Just had a squizz at your piece on the new XR8 Falcon and I'm very keen on testing and buying the only V8 Falcon in the range. I like the new FG design too. Subdued is good in my opinion.

The new SAM exhaust system with the bypass valve will be insane. I've heard a Jag XK8 go past my work and you can hear the sound change from a quiet thrum to a completely raw, wide open blat. So, when can I get one?

- Martin

Editor's Note: Ford played the gathered media a "recording" of the XR8's engine note during the initial powertrain and chassis briefing and it sounded pretty raucous. I think the new XR8 - and especially the XR8 Ute - could be big drawcards for FoMoCo in Australia. As for the FG Falcon's on sale date, "May" is about as accurate as we can get at this stage. Stay tuned for our first hands on test in April.

12/3/2008

My [Audi] TT 2.0-litre manual arrives in a couple of weeks. I'm looking to have it chipped - 188kW and 340Nm, along with H@R suspension (20mm lower). 

Good move or not? It's the new "S" line and I believe it will be one of the first in the country.

Regards,

- Bruce Williams

Editor's Note: Being an enthusiast myself, I'd say go for it. With 188kW the TT will be an absolute machine, as the standard 147kW version does the 0-100km/h in 6.4 seconds. You'd be looking at well under 6.0 seconds if you can keep the wheelspin at bay. As the for the suspension I don't reckon you'd need it, particularly if you get the magnetic ride option. The car is pretty firm as is. The only issue with all these mods is that it'll probably cost more to service in the long run, it may not be quite as reliable and resale values generally suffer when you move cars away from stock-standard. But in terms of driver enjoyment, it sounds like a potent setup.

13/3/2008

I like that Holden [Coupe 60]. Isn't it fu*** beautiful and beasty? That car is as hot as a red pepper!! I just don't know what the hell that bloody Ford is doing?? It [Falcon] should be in the rubbish bin.

- Terimu

12/3/2008

A very fair assessment Feann. My family and I spent a week in France last year with just such a [VW Passat] wagon and I have to say that it is one of the most impressive vehicles that I have driven. The turbo-d was completely unfussed with a load of five people (3 adults, 2 teenagers) plus 6 weeks worth of luggage and the manual 6-speed transmission was a delight, with a ratio for just about every road and traffic situation. 

On the motorways in particular the car really came into its own and covered distance with ease. Even though this was a rental vehicle it came with all the trimmings; leather, climate control etc. It certainly showed up my old Aussie 6-cylinder sedan which struggles with a similar load. It's a real shame that VW Australia won't import the manual transmission as it really compliments the whole notion of the sports wagon.

- Cameron

12/3/2008

Hi.

Have just picked up a VZ Berlina a month ago. It has an overactive rear parking sensor. Is there any simple way I can adjust this or do I have to take it to a dealer to adjust it? The almost constant sound while reversing is unbearable.

Thanking you in advance,

- Rebecca Gyles

Editor's Note: I'm pretty sure most proximity sensors - both factory and aftermarket - are software/hardware controlled so you would most likely need to take it to your dealer or an auto electrician to remedy it. You should probably check to see if the sensors (small circles on the rear bumper) are unblemished and don't have any foreign matter on them either which can sometimes upset them.

12/3/2008

Do you have any plans on reviewing the BMW 3 series range?  I notice a distinct lack of BMW reviews on your site.

- Avinesh

Editor's Note: We do have plans to test the BMW 3 Series range, but whether those plans reach fruition is not clear. BMW has a small press fleet in Australia but hopefully we'll be testing a 335i in the coming months.

10/3/2008

On your article on the Astra Diesel you had some criticism of the steering when used in a sporting manner. Well, if you study the controls you will find a "sports" button, which adjusts engine performance and steering feel for just that situation. 

- Andrew

Editor's Note: Thanks for the email Andrew. I was aware of the button but if memory serves it was more of a gimmick than a real world chassis changer.

28/2/2008

That Turbo Mitsu Sportback with automated twin clutch transmission would definitely be on my next car list! Could drive it to work in heavy traffic, put stuff in it on weekends etc.

It would give the Ford XR5 Turbo a fright especially if it arrives here in AWD form.

A lot of these so-called hot hatches are hopeless in the rain. The Sportback would at least have traction. 

- Klaza

Editor's Note: Thanks for the email Klaza, and I think your views reflect those of an increasing number of car buyers. The new Lancer Sportback Ralliart, as it will be called, will indeed be 4WD and will be coming to Australia and could be priced at around $45,000. It'll have about 175kW which should ensure that it can play ball with the WRX hatch. Rest assured we'll give it the once over in the Road Test section when it arrives (hopefully  sooner rather than later!).

28/2/2008

This was a great read on a very impressive vehicle (VW Golf R32). I am old enough to remember Romsey Quints (Sports Car World). This was comparable. I also know what it is like to drive a Lotus Super 7, Lotus Elan (138mph down Conrod at 8,000rpm in top!) Hustler SC1 and a very unsorted Welsor around Bathurst when it was a goat track.

Wombat made the R32 sound like much more fun!! I want one.

- J. Maroulis

28/2/2008

I own a 2001 Subaru WRX wagon, and I seriously doubt the new Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart Wagon will be able to compete. Subaru has had years perfecting the turbo AWD wagon, and the boxer engine is better unit than a plain old inline four. I predict it will be expensive and will underperform.

- Jim

Editor's Note: Thanks for the email Jim. In terms of exterior design the Lancer wagon will compete strongly with the 2008 WRX hatch. Have you seen the new Impreza hatch? The performance issue is moot until the Lancer Ralliart wagon launches, but Mitsubishi did in fact build a load-lugging Evolution IX wagon that was only sold in Japan, so it does have a small amount of experience with turbo AWD wagons.

28/2/2008

Hello. RE: Motoring Section, Mitsubishi Lancer First Drive. 

You mention in your First Drive of the Mitsubishi Lancer that the tyre noise is a bit of a problem, "... which should be easily remedied". Sorry for what may be a basic question, but how would you propose that the tyre noise can be reduced? 

Has this got anything to do with changing the Yokohama tyres which you mention earlier on in the review as possibly being responsible for some of the tyre noise?

Thanks,

- Philip

Editor's Note: Thanks for the mail Philip, and you are quite correct - changing the tyres would certainly change the acoustic properties. The car could also have done with more acoustic damping in the cabin too, but this was only a minor issue and when the radio is on it's less noticeable again.

28/2/2008

I have just recently purchased a brand new TL Focus Ghia Hatch, (December 2007 Build) on the 30th January 2008, after driving a Tickford enhanced Ford vehicle for the past 8 years. 

The focus comes with all the goodies required. Even though I have only travelled 300kms, I can honestly say it has a very strong feeling and is a comfortable car to drive. The auto isn't too bad either. 

Fuel economy is very very good having travelled to Melbourne from Geelong twice in that time. What can I say except try one first, as I was about to purchase a new Mazda SP23 and from what I've heard the Focus drives better.

- Adrian Small

28/2/2008

Hi - just found this site and am really pleased to have done so! I have a 1996 VW Golf GL. It has a power window (driver) problem.

Creaking noise to begin with then the window only goes half way up. Then no power at all, and then repeats itself. VW offer to fix it, but it's expensive. I wonder if any other part can be put in, ie. motor, regulator, etc.

Appreciate your reply. Thankyou. Oh, and whom can you suggest to do the job in Brisbane.

- LPW

Editor's Note: Thanks for email and glad you like the site. Other than going to VW to fix it, I do know that it can be done in your garage, though I'm not so savvy with the electronic and motorised parts myself as to explain how. Sorry about that. A friend of mine had a 1984 Audi 80 with a similar issue and managed to fix it. Turned out to be worn wiring rather than a busted motor or regulator.

27/2/2008

G'day. Was just looking through my Royal Auto mag and see a write up on the new Mazda 2. Nice enough looking car,  but what's with the drum brakes on the back?

Last time I looked at the calendar I saw year 2008. Our 1989 Laser Ghia has four wheel disc brakes. Surely it couldn't cost that much more to put discs on the rear? 

- T. Kettner

27/2/2008

Hi, thanks for the 380 review. 

I am a male 6'5" - that is 198 cm. 

I am trying to decide on whether to buy a second hand Mitsubishi 380 or a Ford B.A. The 380's driver's head room is better than the Ford's B.A. don't you think?

Would you recommend the 380 over the Ford for someone like myself who is very tall?

Thank you,

- Shawn

Editor's Note: Hello Shawn. I tend to agree there. Both vehicles have a fairly similar amount of head room, but the Mitsubishi 380 seems to have a roomy perception to the cabin I reckon.

8/2/2008

Regarding the article on the Melbourne F1 Grand Prix not sticking around - good riddance. Waste of money, waste of time. I hope it goes to Russia like Bernie says.

- M. Crest

8/2/2008

Thanks for the very in depth Lancer review. I will definitely be taking one of these for a test drive soon!

- Flakemore

8/2/2008

Hello Wombat staff.

I have been looking to replace my 1999 Toyota Corolla for a while now. Not that it has done anything wrong, it's been a dream to run but not to drive.

With a budget of $20,000 what car would you think would suit me? My priorities are space, reliability, and decent performance.

A second hand Mitsubishi 380 sounds real good with the 5 year warranty and I think I can get a 2005 model for under $20k. Anyway let me know what you think as it would be much appreciated.

Cheers,

- Mike

Editor's Note: G'day Mike. It's sad to see that the Mitsubishi 380 has been effectively wiped out after the closure of the South Australian plant, but the fact of the matter is that the 380 is one of the best large Aussie cars in my mind. The engine is one of its strong suits so performance is taken care of while interior space is excellent too. Take one for a test if you can, and I reckon you'll be impressed. Other options include the Falcon, Commodore, and possibly the Nissan Maxima if you can find an affordable one.

8/2/2008

Re: Road Test: Mazda6 Luxury Sports, 13/12/05.

Do you know why do they not put rear air conditioning vents in these 'luxury' cars, and can they be put in? I have found the rear passengers can not feel it from the front.

- Ingrid

Editor's Note: Thanks for the email Ingrid. More and more new cars are featuring vents for rear seat passengers. Most are centrally mounted in the footwell, but the Ford Mondeo for instance has adjustable rear vents in the B-pillars which is pretty cool (no pun intended).

8/2/2008

Hi,

I would like to purchase a Ford Focus diesel. Do you know when the 2008 model will be released in Australia? I had no reply from Ford.

Thanks,

- Garry

Editor's Note: The 2007 Ford Focus diesel models are on sale. Ford hasn't yet indicated when the 2008 models will be coming into the country, which are expected to be mechanically similar except for dual clutch gearboxes.

25/1/2008

Hi again. I just wanted to say about Holden V8s, that the normal SS have L98 V8 engines, not LS2s. LS2 V8 have 298kW to 307kW and 540Nm and 550Nm, and hasn't been detuned.

L98 V8 engines were specially built for Holden V8 Commodores and Luxury models. It's a common Mistake, because of being the LS2 is more popular and more spoken of, and their both in the GM LS V8 range...

Maybe in the future Commodore will have an LS2, because if the L98 having only a 270kW and 530Nm spec.

Anyway great website. I really like reading your articles and great journalists too!

- Lachlan

Editor's Note: Thanks for the email Lachlan. I always thought that Holden referred to its 6.0-litre V8s as the LS2 engine. Looking back at a few press releases Holden calls the SS Commodore's engine the "6.0-litre Generation IV V8", so you're quite right.

25/1/2008

RE: Mercedes-Benz 2009 edition SL350 Roadster. The new design isn't revolutionary, but I can see where Mercedes is going with it. The headlights are different to older models' that had the fried egg theme, but the design will mellow over time. Just like the new BMW 7 Series came out it was trashed by the press - but its now one of the best selling 7 Series ever. 

I've driven the new BMW 6 Series convertible, but I'd buy one of these new Merc SL's over the BMW. They're just better cars.

- John

25/1/2008

Hi there. Nice website, good reviews, and nice images on the news stories. I wanted to add my 2-cents to the large car debate. Ford's new Falcon is coming out soon and Holden's Commodore has been out for a while, but I reckon unless they can secure long term export markets or add diesel/hybrid or even small turbo engines to the mix (like the new Ford Explorer), they're doomed.

Fuel economy is now the single biggest motivating factor for a lot of new car buyers, and the big cars don't cut it. The Mitsubishi 380 is pretty much hanging by a thread, and the Aurion only exists because the Falcon and Commodore do.

- Ryan P.

Editor's Note: Interesting take Ryan, and I agree with some of your comments there. Ford will unveil the new Falcon at the 2008 Melbourne International Motor Show in late Feb, and there's a lot of people hoping for something truly dynamic that reduces fuel consumption. Ford is being very secretive leading up to the new Falcon launch and hasn't even revealed the designation yet (BH?), but as soon as we get the info, we'll get it published.

25/1/2008

Howdy. Just want to know if you have tested/reviewed the Toyota Trooper V8 diesel?

Hoo roo,

- Dan

Editor's Note: Hi Dan. We have no plans to test the Toyota Trooper V8 diesel, though a colleague drove one recently and said it was one of the most capable 4WDs he's ever driven. A little bit expensive, but virtually unstoppable. We are however testing the Landcruiser 200 series (with the V8 diesel) in a couple of months.

18/1/2008

The new BMW M3 Convertible will never look as good as the old 3.2-litre version that came before it. The E46 models will always be the truest and purist of the M3 family. The roof on the new model looks stupid as well. You can see all the joins for the 3-piece roof and it looks incomplete and not very elegant. 

I'd get a Jaguar rag top instead.

- Mex

18/1/2008

Nice review of the Ford Mondeo but you didn't comment on the ability of the air-con to cope with Aussie summer conditions. Is it up to scratch or is it the normal puny Euro standard?

- John B.

Editor's Note: The Mondeo has pretty decent air-conditioning - I'd give it a 6.5 out of ten. Adequate and better than a lot of Euro air-con systems, but on a 40° day it'll struggle.

16/1/2008

Good to see you guys back and kicking in 2008 and loving the Detroit 2008 coverage. Just want to make a comment on the new Volkswagen Passat CC coupe - awesome design. 

The exterior of the car looks sensational, and I can't wait until they launch it here.

- Sean B.

Editor's Note: Thanks for the email, and we're glad you like the coverage. I just got off the phone with Volkswagen Australia's PR chief and he said that they're already in discussions with their German counterparts to bring the slinky new 4-door Passat coupe here. "We're very positive the car will come to Australia," he said, adding that it would provide a key halo effect for the Passat range. As for the time frame, it could even arrive here before years end.

16/1/2008

RE: Volkswagen Passat CC. The design is appealing and if it was priced well I'd consider it, but it's a complete copy of the Mercedes-Benz CLS. 

The Benz still looks better. The tail lights on the Passat CC need work too. They look out of place on the car.

- Jen

16/1/2008

After owning Subaru WRX's, I decided to purchase an XR5 Ford Focus... 

What can I say? Apart from the emission of all wheel drive, the car rocks. Performance is smoother and punchy, ride is sensational and the seating spectacular.Bye bye Rexxie.

- J. Barnes

16/1/2008

Hi. I have a 2007 Captiva 2.0 LTZ Diesel and I'm not getting the claimed 6.8l/100km on the highway or the 8.8l/100km urban fuel consumption. I've checked the vehicle over the past 3000kms and I always seem to get between 10.1l/100km and 10.4l/100km for my combine fuel cycle (70km highway and 30km urban) per day. 

What is wrong because the vehicle consumes about 2 litres more per 100km than what was claimed. My driving is between 80km/h and 110km/h.

Please advise.

- Andy Joseph (South Africa)

Editor's Note: Thanks for the email Andy. It could be a number of things here, and when we tested a similar 2.0-litre diesel Captiva we didn't record fuel consumption below 10L/100km. Some of the factors that can adversely impact fuel consumption include the quality of fuel you purchase, you're driving style, the quality of the roads, how many people or how much luggage you have in the car. There is also the possibility that the manufacturers claims were somewhat optimistic.

15/1/2008

We are trying to decide which station wagon, Holden or Ford, would tow a 17-foot caravan best.

- Andy & Pam

Editor's Note: If you're going for the 6-cylinder models, I'd say the Ford Falcon would be the better for towing mainly because it has a lot more torque and displacement. You could also opt for the 6-speed automatic in the Falcon which the 6-cylinder Commodore doesn't have, which will 'learn' your driving patterns and would useful when towing.

15/1/2008

Are the new Mustangs gonna be in Australia?

- KIL.HSV

Editor's Note: Ford's PR people were initially unavailable for comment, but realistically I doubt the Mustang will be coming to Australia as it would potentially hurt FPV sales. When we get official word I'll update this response so check back when you can. Update: Ford Australia confirmed it - no Mustangs for Australia.

9/1/2008

Holden are recalling 86,000 commodores - maybe they should be doing the same with Captiva petrol versions and replacing the catalytic converters - I hear they smell worse than a high school chemistry sulphur experiment.

- Phil

9/1/2008

Excellent comparison review you did on the Mitsubishi Grandis vs Honda Odyssey. Can you suggest which later model Odyssey comes with a 6-cylinder (a little more 'grunt'), and 2 & 3 row seats fold down? Have actually been comparing with the Tarago, however Tarago may be a little expensive.

- Julia H.

Editor's Note: Thanks for the email Julia, and there was a V6 option on the previous Honda Odyssey that output around 150kW of power and was known for its grunt. That model was sold in Japan and Australia between 1999 and 2004, and you can probably find one in the used car classifieds if you don't mind doing the elbow work.

9/1/2008

You say that the [Holden] 6.0-litre is "stone age V8 rust" - it's all aluminium alloy construction! And then you rate the SV6 equal or higher against individual criteria; and yet you give an overall rating that is higher in the V8 version ......what gives ?

Otherwise a good read.

Regards,

- R.B.

Editor's Note: Thanks for the email R.B. Though it sounds negative, I wasn't so much calling the LS2 V8 engine stone aged rust, but highlighting the fact that a stone aged engine (no matter its source) of 6.0-litres will almost always beat out the most advanced nat atmo 3.6 bent six. It was more a note that you can't beat outright capacity, rather than a slap in the face for the LS2.

9/1/2008

Hi.

In this review of the Hyundai i30, you make no comment on the road noise at highway speeds. I test drove the new Corolla versus i30 diesel this last weekend and the distinct difference was the Corolla was a more refined driving experience with lower road noise, better handling dynamics and a more precise steering handling feel with a nicer more modern interior cabin experience.

You haven't done the i30 diesel review yet? The i30 diesel defies gravity being cheaper to buy than Corolla and 25% cheaper to run on fuel. It has an acceleration surge that (puts a smile on your face) the Corolla just can't match. 

Tough call. The i30D is maybe a guys car :) ? Toyota should get brownie points for making the Corolla so much better than the previous model - and hey when are they bringing their diesel version onto the stage?

Thanks,

- Dennis P.

Editor's Note: G'day Dennis. We haven't yet tested the Hyundai i30 diesel, but my colleagues from other publications reckon it's a pretty sweet machine. In terms of road noise, the i30 model we tested has different sized wheels and tyres to the diesel version you drove, which can often have a profound effect on tyre noise. There is a diesel version of the new Toyota Corolla (2.0-litre) available in South Africa at the moment, but don't expect it to arrive here anytime soon as demand for the petrol version is still very strong.

21/12/2007

I was reading about the new Ford Focus RS and I was wondering if you reckon I should wait for the RS, or get the Focus XR5 Turbo right now? I like the idea of AWD and the cool new look Focus RS, but I also want a new car pretty soon.

- Jimmy

Editor's Note: I'd say get a Ford Focus XR5 Turbo, because you'll be waiting until at least 2009 for the car to come out in Europe. And then there's the question of when it comes to Australia, if at all. Could be 2010 if it's popular in Europe (and it will be).

21/12/2007

Hello again Web Wombats. I'm a Holden and HSV fan, and do like some of the other cars that GM offers.

I just wanted to ask, would the 2009 Chevy Camaro make it to Australia, either as a Holden (not rebadged with Chevy badge), or rebadged as a Holden (return of the Monaro)? Will Chevy come to Australia just like Dodge did?

Thanks.

- Lachlan 

PS. Great article about the HSV Maloo.

Editor's Note: Hi Lachlan. The Camaro is currently only being built in left-hand drive configurations which would mean Australia misses out. But there has been plenty of talk that Holden wants to sell a small number of them here, and now that Cadillac is coming in 2008, the case for the Camaro may improve. If Chevrolet did create right-hand drive Camaro's, they'd most likely stay badged as a Chevy. There has been further talk however that the new Camaro could be used as a base for the next generation Holden Monaro. Watch this space...

21/12/2007

I have read your test results on the Suzuki SX4, before and after I bought the car. 

I have had it for 5000 kilometres so far and all that I can add to your findings is: 1) The front pillars make it a little difficult going around round-abouts for vision and 2) the indicators sometimes do not reset, due to not having to turn wheel too much to turn the corner (also they are too quiet so if they don't reset it can be a hazard. And 3) the fuel tank is a little small, but after reading lots of forums I understand that is as big as they can put in it, due the rear transmission.

I have an auto and the fuel consumption is just a little higher (9.1L/100km). But over all it is a fantastic car and would highly recommend it for anyone that wants a car for all seasons/reasons.

- Rex Hill

14/12/2007

Mate, regular reader of the articles, but lost all respect with praising the Proton.

- ProtonAreCrap

Mathew Salzone's Note: While the Proton does not compare with the usual range of cars we review, it did in my opinion have something special about it. I did enjoy the simplicity of the car and was very impressed with the handling. However I do agree that Proton have already dug their own grave with cheap interiors, reliability issues and cutting corners in all the wrong places. Thanks for writing in and we love to hear all your opinions.

14/12/2007

Re: The "review" of the Proton Satria GT.

What a crap review! The reviewer says he loves it despite rubbish QA, poor design, a slug of a motor, ancient engineering, poor safety and mundane interior. No reference to competitors' standards, fuel efficiency, resale...
And the grammar is appalling. Who wrote this fan-boy garbage?

- Trophies

Mathew Salzone's Note: I can see that you didn't enjoy my first review here at Web Wombat. The Proton definitely had flaws in most areas, but the handling alone won me over in the end - as is spelled out in my review. I am slightly bias as I own this car and race it competitively in hillclimbs in Victoria. Ask most other people using it currently in the production car championship and they will say the same. Thanks for you email, and if you would like more information on the GTI I would be happy to forward it to you.

11/12/2007

Could you do an article on the VE HSV Maloo R8? It was released last month and it was avoided, so please if you have the time, could we see more of the HSV side of Holden.

Thanks!

- Lachlan

Editor's Note: Consider it done. If you don't see it on the front page, try a refresh. Also, we'll be testing the ute in February 2008 as well, so we'll give you our independent analysis on Australia's most powerful ute.

11/12/2007

Re Golf RaVe 270 Concept Wagon:

I wish VW would sell the Golf Wagon in Oz. The Passat wagon is too expensive and has crap seats compared to the Golf.

Would be even better if the 198kW engine was available. Though I'd be quite happy with 170kW and peak torque at lower RPM. I wonder what a twin charged 2.0L would be like?

Cheers,

- Klaza

7/12/2007

Hi Guys,

Is there any chance the 2008 Honda Accord Coupe is coming down to our shores?

- Brian (Melbourne)

Editor's Note: Nah, not really Brian. The car is pretty much tailored for the North American market (left-hand drive only) and though Honda's Accord models sell very strongly here in Oz, I'm not sure there'd be a business case for importing it.

7/12/2007

Hello,

I am really interested in the Renault Clio 182 Cup (and loved your review) but have read numerous stories regarding their reliability.

I have nutted my purchase down to either the 182 (winning by miles), XR4 and 2004 Astra SRI Turbo.

I really like the Clio but after hearing about the frequent electrical problems I am worried that the costs of maintenance/running for the car will be high. Are the costs for servicing this particular car high given its relative rarity in Australia? Also; would most of the problems be stamped out with a second hand purchase (the one I am looking at has done about 30,000km), or would they be more frequent?

Any advice is much appreciated.

Cheers,

- Steve

Editor's Note: