c sportlounge

John Mellor's
GoAuto
Aug u s t 1 7 , 2 0 0 5
e
-news
No.No.
300180
STILL
FREE!
GoAuto e-news celebrates its 300th
issue this week, marking eight years in
circulation.
We’re now established as Australia’s
leading motor industry publication,
reaching 30,000 readers in Australia,
the Asia-Pacific region and the head
offices of car-makers worldwide.
As such, the publication has
attracted a loyal group of advertisers
who recognise the unique valuefor-money proposition of GoAuto
e-news because it cost-effectively
reaches the key players within car company
management, within car dealerships and
within the host of organisations that supply
the industry with goods and services.
Our online stablemate, GoAuto Online, is
a leading source of research for car buyers,
with 15 Australian auto websites taking our
editorial content. GoAuto Online readers
request more than 250,000 stories from our
database each month as they gather material
for their car purchase.
Thanks to all our staff, contributors,
advertisers and readers for their support.
Six star Falcon
Aussie-first six-speed auto headlines
new BF Falcon range
Falcon XR8
V>ÀÃ>iÃÊÊÊV>ÀÃÊ܏`
By NEIL McDONALD
FORD Australia’s worst-kept secret is out: a new
six-speed automatic transmission will join the
Falcon and Territory range later this year.
The first of its kind in an Australian-built
vehicle, the German-sourced ZF six-speed
automatic is the headline act in the BF Falcon and
SY Territory series, which will make their public
debut at the Australian International Motor Show
in October.
The model upgrade also includes
minor engine modifications, cosmetic
enhancements and increased equipment
levels.
The new transmission is restricted to
premium models, leaving the XT Falcon,
Futura, Fairmont and rear-drive Territory
models with a recalibrated version of the
existing Ion four-speed automatic.
Continued next page
John Mellor's
GoAuto
e
-news
A U G U S T 1 7 , 2 0 0 5 Page 2
Six star
Falcon
Continued from previous page
Ford claims the new ZF auto and its revised
4.0-litre inline-six – now known as Barra 190
and producing 190kW (up 8kW) at 5250rpm
and 383Nm (up 3Nm) at 2500rpm – combine to
achieve fuel economy gains of between two and
six per cent, more refinement and less emissions.
The self-shifter is a compact, lightweight unit
that Ford has modified for Australian conditions
and driving habits.
It has engineered two versions – a
standard version with a torque capacity
of 450Nm, and a performance version
rated to 600Nm – and has the option of
offering low-range gearing, a feature
almost certain to be engineered into
future Territory models.
“We wanted architecture that we
could use in the future,” said Ford
Australia’s vice president of product
development, Trevor Worthington. “By
the time we made the decision to go
six-speed it was the right transmission
and that’s the way it worked out.”
He said fuel economy gains were also high
priorities.
“Our aim was to maximise real-world economy
figures,” he said. “We are confident all customers
will gain better economy than the official figures
suggest.”
Other attributes of the gearbox include
sequential-manual operation (via the T-bar, not the
steering wheel like on Commodore and Adventra),
grade logic control for automatic downshifting
(to provide increased engine braking downhill),
and a transient rpm limit that allows the engine to
momentarily exceed the prescribed 6000rpm rev
limit by 250rpm during upshifts.
Importantly, the transmission also offers a
lower first gear ratio, higher top gear and smaller,
Fairmont Ghia
more graduated shift points
between each gear.
“The low first gear improves
launch feel while it offers
livelier performance, especially
with a wide open throttle,” Mr
Worthington said.
The unit will be standard on
Fairmont Ghia, Fairlane Ghia,
Fairlane G8, LTD, Territory
TX AWD, TS AWD and Ghia
AWD. It will be optional (for
an estimated $1500-$1800) on the XR6 Turbo
and XR8 sedan and utes, and will be specified as
a mandatory fitting when the Barra 230 V8 engine
is combined with either Falcon XT or Fairmont.
As well as the new Barra 190, Ford’s
Australian-vehicle engine line-up includes the
turbocharged 4.0-litre Barra 245T – now with an
extra 5kW and 30Nm (245kW at 5250rpm and
480Nm at 2000rpm) – and the 5.4-litre Barra 230
V8, now with another 10kW and 30Nm to achieve
a maximum 230kW at 5350rpm and 500Nm at
3500rpm.
The Barra E-Gas engine now produces 156kW
at 5000rpm and 374Nm at 2750rpm.
The Tremec T56 six-speed manual, which has
been available on XR6T and XR8 models, will
now also be offered on the XR6 sedan.
TM
Ford counts the addition of dual independent
variable camshaft timing and dual knock sensors
as the biggest change to the 4.0-litre six.
The dual independent VCT is claimed to
deliver better low-speed torque, while the six
also now has a lower idle speed of 550rpm (down
from 700rpm).
At 100km/h, the natural-breathing Falcon six
turns over at 1500rpm, while at the same speed
the Territory hums along at 1800rpm.
Ford Australia’s powertrain development
supervisor, Ian Cole, said the company found
that neither the Australian Design Rule 81/01 or
NEDC Euro II/III test were indicative of “realworld” situations so Ford developed its own
test. Perhaps not surprisingly, these showed the
vehicles in a better light.
ECONOMY DRIVE: ADR 81/01 COMBINED
FUEL CONSUMPTION (L/100km)
Model
BA II
BF/SY
Gain
Falcon XT
11.5
10.9
5.2%
Fairmont Ghia
11.5
10.2
11.3%
Territory RWD
13.1
12.2
6.8%
Territory AWD
13.5
12.8
5.2%
Source: Ford Australia
by
Dealer Management Systems
Future Proof your Profits
John Mellor's
John Mellor's
ee
Peter Thatcher +61 3 9349 3062
[email protected]
www.unitssoftware.com.au
GoAuto
-news is produced by Automotive NetWorks, Australia’s most innovative automotive publishing group
GoAutoPhone:
-news
is produced byEditor:
Automotive
NetWorks,
Australia’s most innovative Staff
automotive
publishing group
Terry Martin
Managing Editor: Marton Pettendy
Journalist: Byron Mathioudakis
03 9598 6477
Phone: (03) 9598 6477 Production
E-mail: [email protected]
& Graphics: Chris Harris
E-mail: [email protected]
Advertising
manager:
Steve
Butcher
110
Advertising
manager:
Steve
Butcher– –Ph:
Ph:0419
0419 562
562 110
John Mellor's
e
GoAuto
-news
A U G U S T 1 7 , 2 0 0 5 Page 3
Warranties safe
Diesel-related breakdowns won’t harm warranties - but mixed messages abound
By NEIL McDONALD
AUSTRALIAN car companies have been quick
to reassure owners of diesel-powered four-wheel
drive wagons that new-vehicle warranties will
remain intact if additives or different grades of
fuel are used to avoid mechanical failures in the
snow.
A GoAuto investigation last week revealed that
diesel fuel in many late-model 4WDs was freezing
in sub-zero conditions, a problem particularly
apparent in modern common-rail diesel engines
with finer fuel-injection nozzles.
Over the past week, car-makers have scrambled
to check reports of problems from dealers and
owners, however none to date have reported
issues concerning freezing fuel, fuel lines or
ignition systems.
All companies GoAuto contacted insisted that
warranties would be honoured if issues over fuel
quality were found.
Volkswagen Touareg
Three distinct diesel fuel blends are available
in Australia throughout the year – summer, winter
and alpine.
The latter is specifically available in regional
areas close to the snow, meaning owners who
fill up in metropolitan areas with winter-grade
diesel could be risking mechanical failure if their
vehicles were parked for long periods at regional
ski resorts.
Melbourne City Land Rover spokesman
Chris Pearce insisted that most owners of dieselpowered Range Rover and Discovery 4WDs were
aware of the need to use winter and alpine-blend
fuels.
Winter diesel has a lower “cloud point” – the
point at which the wax in the fuel solidifies – and
is specifically blended not to freeze.
All diesel fuel uses liquid wax for the
combustion process, with alpine diesel adding
more additives for the harsher snow country.
Despite last week’s
big freeze across
southern Australia,
Mr Pearce said he had
not received reports
of freezing fuel from
owners.
“We can only
assume our owners
know to put the alpine
fuel mix in their cars
when they go to the
snow,” he said.
Similar reports were received from Audi,
Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, Mitsubishi and
Toyota.
“I’ve not heard of any fuel problems like
that affecting our vehicles,” said Audi Australia
spokesperson Anna Burgdorf.
Like all car manufacturers, Audi spends
millions testing its vehicles in extreme climates
before they go on sale.
“We do extensive cold-weather as well as hotweather testing of our cars,” she said.
Audi Australia also constantly monitored issues
related to winter driving, such as winter tyres and
the issue of snow chains in each state, she said
– “but the fuel issue is not one that’s come up”.
Mercedes-Benz Australia spokesman Toni
Andreevski said problems were not expected with
its vehicles in local climatic conditions, and that
if there were diesel-related issues these would not
affect warranties.
“It’s not something we anticipate,” he said.
He added that all current Mercedes CDi diesels
incorporated fuel-heating systems mounted to
the engine to provide trouble-free operation
in temperatures down to minus-25 degrees –
providing winter-grade fuel was used.
Volkswagen Group Australia echoed the other
manufacturers’ views and did not anticipate
warranty issues concerning the wrong diesel mix.
However, VW spokesman Matthew Wiesner
said owners who had been affected at the snow
“may have taken the view that it was a minor
problem”.
Continued next page
Specialist
Automotive Recruitment
Auto Industry Opportunities - HOT JOBS!
Financial Controller / Company Accountant –
Dealership x 2
Fixed Operations Manager QLD & Vic
Heavy Equipment
Dealer Development Manager
Heavy Manufacturing
Controller – Fleet Management
JohnMaintenance
Mellor's
Service Advisors – Dealership (Heavy & Light)
GoAuto
e
Stock Control & Admin - Dealership
Fleet Administration – Contract
Fleet Management x 2
Parts Manager Vic – Heavy Equipment
Technical Developer & Writer – Automotive
For more Hot Jobs, visit our web site
www.edgepp.com or call (03) 9830 2133
■
Quality
■
Commitment
■
Passion
Local & International Markets
Seach & Selection
■ Permanent Positions
■ Contract Positions
■
■
■
Temporary
www.edgepp.com
-news is produced by Automotive NetWorks, Australia’s most innovative automotive publishing group
Phone: (03)
9598 6477
E-mail: [email protected]
Advertising manager:
Steve
Butcher
– Ph: 0419
562 110
Manufacturing • Dealerships
• Fleet
• Finance
• Aftermarket • Insurance...
Call:
03
9830
2133
John Mellor's
e
GoAuto
-news
A U G U S T 1 7 , 2 0 0 5 Page 4
Diesel-engine warranties safe
Continued from previous page
Mitsubishi Australia spokesman Kevin Taylor said any warranty issues
would be approached on a “case-by-case” basis, while a Toyota spokesperson
said all 4WD diesel owners’ manuals made clear reference to using diesel fuel
tailored to climatic conditions.
For Toyota diesels, it clearly identifies the specific need for winter diesel
in colder climates.
The alpine blend is specifically available to regional areas of NSW, the
ACT and Victoria.
However, there are some mixed messages about the need for alpine fuel.
Some service stations that GoAuto contacted this week in regional Victoria
did not sell the alpine mix, arguing the winter fuel was just as good at
preventing fuel freezing.
Several petroleum companies also had no idea where, or even if, alpine mix
was available through their networks, while the Canberra-based Australian
Institute of Petroleum had no data available to the public on the recommended
diesel fuel for winter conditions.
There are several diesel mixes on the market at any given time and,
according to BP Australia, the wax levels used for ignition can change month
to month.
The winter mix has a lower tendency for waxing “for improved but not
complete protection from alpine conditions”.
The BP website outlines appropriate requirements for using diesel fuel in
snow areas.
There is a two-month lead-time in the distribution of the fuel so diesel
bought in May would be winter grade for the cold period from the start of
May until the end of July.
BP recommends changing over all fuel by May to avoid winter waxing
problems and urges vehicle owners not to keep summer fuel for winter use.
In Victoria, BP alpine diesel is only sold at Wangaratta and Mansfield but
other petroleum companies sell the mix in Bright and Mount Beauty.
A BP technical spokesman warned that filling up with diesel fuel in
Melbourne was not appropriate for alpine conditions.
Normally the wax remains liquid in the fuel, however when diesel gets
cold enough the wax will solidify. If the temperature is low enough, crystals
form to block the fuel filter and the engine can stop through fuel starvation.
FUEL NEWS
WINTER DIESEL PROBLEMS
During unseasonably cold weather some diesel-powered engines will experience
difficulties with starting. These problems arise from the formation of wax crystals, which
block fuel filters and lines. This fuel news aims to inform BP diesel customers who live in
cooler regions of the potential problems that can arise from using diesel during winter,
and how to prevent these problems .
WHAT ARE WINTER DIESEL PROBLEMS?
All diesel fuel contains wax. It is considered an important diesel component because of
its high cetane value. Normally the wax is a liquid in the fuel, however, when diesel fuel
gets cold enough the wax starts to crystallize (i.e. solidify). If the temperature is
sufficiently low, enough crystals will form to block the fuel filter and the engine can stop
through fuel starvation.
HOW TO IDENTIFY HAVE WAXING PROBLEMS
If wax has formed in a diesel fuel then it will block fuel lines and filters, it is visible as
a white / yellow deposit or cloud in the fuel.
Engines will be hard to start or will not start due to fuel starvation.
WHAT IS BP DOING TO MINIMISE WINTER DIESEL PROBLEMS?
BP will supply Diesel fuel that is appropriate for the season. This done by varying the
cloud point of diesel fuel depending on month and location. These are defined in the
Australian Standard AS 3570-1998 for Automotive Diesel Fuel. Therefore everytime you
purchase diesel fuel from BP –you are guaranteed that the product will be appropriate for
the month and location as defined by the Australian Standard.
WHAT CAN YOU DO ABOUT WINTER DIESEL PROBLEMS?
FUEL
The specification for Diesel varies each month, this is done to ensure that the fuel
available is appropriate for the season. Because the Summer Diesel has a higher cloud
point, it is not appropriate to use this during winter when lower cloud point diesel is
required. To avoid winter waxing problems plan to change over all fuel by May at the
latest. It is important that summer fuel should not be kept for winter use.
ALPINE DIESEL: Specific regions of Victoria and NSW are supplied with Alpine Diesel with
a significantly lower tendency to waxing, for improved but not complete protection from
alpine conditions. Similar procedures for insulation and shelter still apply. When
travelling into an alpine region in winter, tanks should be filled with at least 75% Alpine
Diesel upon arrival.
CORRECT LUBRICATING OIL: Always ensure that the lubricating oil is adequate for cold
weather operation. The wrong grade of oil will result in less engine protection and
starting difficulties. If an engine oil suffers from dilution by the fuel, sufficient wax may
build up in the lubricating oil causing it to solidify in cold weather. Always check the oil is
liquid on the dipstick before starting and if in doubt, change the oil before travelling into
alpine regions.
FIXED OPERATIONS MARKETING
Q. How many calls can your PARTS FIELD REP make a week?
A. The best Rep can do 55 - 70 and cost you $23.33 per contact.
Q. Would you like to make a minimum of 2000 contacts in
just 7 days and pay only $2.50 per contact?
A. To find out more call Automotive Marketing Solutions.
Automotive Marketing Solutions provide a National, Fixed Operations
Marketing Service to dealers for both parts and service, that works
in conjunction with your field representative to dramatically boost
their performance.
Phone 1300 784 552
AMS can unlock thousands of potential customer orders and provide
your Rep with a detailed report, ready for a positive WARM follow
up in a matter of days.
The more potential customer contacts your Rep has, the greater the
Visit www.automs.com.au for a slide
John Mellor's
chance of beating your competitor to the sale.
presentation of the proven AMS service.
GoAuto -news is produced by Automotive NetWorks, Australia’s most innovative automotive publishing group
e
AMS proven methods hasPhone:
taken(03)
a $6M
Parts E-mail:
Business
and grown it by 40%
in just 12
months.
Why
not –give
a try.
9598 6477
[email protected]
Advertising
manager:
Steve
Butcher
Ph:them
0419 562
110
John Mellor's
GoAuto
e
-news
A U G U S T 1 7 , 2 0 0 5 Page 5
Hot to trot
Awesome R32 makes a comeback
- with more power and now DSG
By NEIL McDONALD
VOLKSWAGEN Group Australia already has
a long waiting list for the hot turbocharged 2.0litre Golf GTi, so news last week of the imminent
arrival of the fire-breathing R32 model is sure to
cause even more problems.
This latest Golf R32, which will be launched
at the Frankfurt motor show next month, goes
on sale in Europe straight after. But don’t rush to
your local dealer.
The V6-powered Golf is unlikely to be available
here until next year, and then in limited numbers.
Pricing is expected to be around the previous
car’s $63,000 starting point.
The new R32 gains a 7kW power increase
John Mellor's
GoAuto
e
– from 177kW to 184kW – delivered by a 3.2litre V6 mated to a six-speed manual or DSG
dual-clutch gearbox and driving through 4Motion
all-wheel drive.
The powerful V6 endows the R32
with an electronically limited top speed
of 250km/h and VW claims the manual
will accelerate from 0-100km/h in 6.5
seconds. The DSG will reach the same
speed 0.3 seconds quicker.
Visually, VW has opted for the lessis-more approach to styling. The front
end is marked with a large aluminium grille and
large air intakes, while the lower bumper has an
extra spoiler lip.
Discreet side skirts connect the front and
rear bumpers, the latter featuring an air diffuser
between the two centre stainless-steel exhausts on
each side. A rear spoiler adds downforce.
As expected with a powerhouse,
18-inch 20-spoke Zolder alloys with
225/40 rubber rated to 300km/h
are fitted, as well as a performance
brake system. The brakes come with
345mm-diameter discs at the front,
310mm at the rear, and blue-painted
callipers. ESP stability control and brake assist
are also part of the package.
Sports suspension lowers the car 20mm over
the standard hatch.
The sporty interior has a distinctive instrument
panel, sports steering wheel, hip-hugging sports
seats, aluminium pedals and a special R32 shift
knob.
Automatic climate control, a tyre pressure
warning system, 10-speaker premium CD stereo,
multi-function display and computer, anti-dazzle
interior mirror, rain-sensing wipers, six airbags
and bi-Xenon headlights are standard.
When the R32 goes on sale, the Golf model
range in Europe will stretch from 55kW to 184kW.
Including the R32 V6 there will be 10 engines on
offer – six petrol and four diesel.
When it was first launched in Europe in August
2002, the R32 became one of the hottest cars on
the road and sold like hot cakes.
Three times as many R32s were sold than
originally planned and in Australia all 200 were
snapped up quickly when it finally landed here
last year.
The arrival of the new R32 is likely to be a case
of history repeating itself.
-news is produced by Automotive NetWorks, Australia’s most innovative automotive publishing group
Phone: (03) 9598 6477 E-mail: [email protected]
Advertising manager: Steve Butcher – Ph: 0419 562 110
John Mellor's
e
GoAuto
-news
A U G U S T 1 7 , 2 0 0 5 Page 6
Iron man food
Renault appeals to ‘extractor fans’ with its hot new Clio Renaultsport
By NEIL McDONALD
HARD on the heels of the unveiling of the new
Clio, Renault has taken the wraps of a loosely
disguised production version of the hot-hatch
Clio Renaultsport.
In keeping with its high-performance pedigree,
the hot Clio Renaultsport concept gains bespoke
bodywork, enlarged front and rear wings, a
lowered stance and side skirts that combine with
extractor vents and an underfloor air diffuser to
enhance its aerodynamics.
The concept will be shown at the Frankfurt
motor show next month and Renault has indicated
production versions are likely to go on sale early
next year, meaning an expected on-sale date here
of late 2006.
Although Renault isn’t at this stage divulging
details about the engine underneath, the car is
tipped to have a potent 2.0-litre four-cylinder
developing more than 130kW and mating with a
close-ratio six-speed manual gearbox.
Seven-spoke, 18-inch wheels with bodycoloured highlights reveal large brake discs
and callipers. A large, chrome-zinc-coloured air
intake in the front bumper also hints at the car’s
potential.
Chrome is also used on the radiator grille, the
fog-light surrounds and the door mirrors, while at
the rear the diffuser and twin exhausts follow the
same theme.
Renault claims the diffuser dramatically
improves aerodynamics by channelling and
accelerating air to create a low-pressure
area and hence increase downforce.
The clever system negates the
need for a rear roof
spoiler.
To
maximise
the
diffuser’s
effectiveness, the
dual exhausts are
fitted within the
side channels.
The extractor
vents in the front
wings also have
an aerodynamic function, reducing turbulence
while also improving hot-air extraction from the
engine bay. The grilles are positioned to direct
air along the sides of the car, thereby optimising
performance.
The concept has a wide 1520mm front and
rear track and 2585mm wheelbase – against
the current 182’s 1430mm front/rear track and
2485mm wheelbase – along with the choice of
high-performance tyres (215/40 R18).
The brakes are claimed to offer exceptional
stopping power and resistance to heat. At the
front, red-painted callipers have four aluminium
pistons and cross-drilled 330mm Brembo discs
(280mm at the rear).
Inside, the car is decked out in chrome and
leather with a large panoramic sunroof. The
sports seats are upholstered in red-and-grey
leather with built-in headrests, while the leathercovered dashboard’s fluid forms echo the Clio III
style. The reach- and height-adjustable steering
wheel (with a flattened lower section) is clad in a
combination of red and black cowhide.
An integral, chrome-zinc centre console
separates the four individual bucket seats.
White-faced instruments have been used to
deliver essential information with optimum clarity
and a gear-ratio indicator is included within the
rev-counter.
Competition-style aluminium pedals and
footrest complete the sports character.
NOTHING ELSE CAN PROTECT YOUR
ENGINE BETTER THAN MOBIL 1.
THERE ARE MORE THAN 20 PATENTS ON ITS
SUPERSYN™ ANTI-WEAR TECHNOLOGY.
John Mellor's
GoAuto
e
-news is produced by Automotive NetWorks, Australia’s most innovative automotive publishing group
© 2004 Exxon Mobil Corporation. Mobil, Mobil 1 and The Flying Horse device are Trademarks
of Exxon Mobil Corporation or one of its subsidiaries. McCann MPVL000110-Q
Phone: (03) 9598 6477 E-mail: [email protected]
Advertising manager: Steve Butcher – Ph: 0419 562 110
John Mellor's
e
GoAuto
-news
A U G U S T 1 7 , 2 0 0 5 Page 7
Optimum
return
All-new Kia large
sedan set for
Aussie debut
next March
By MARTON PETTENDY
KIA has revealed its next-generation Optima
flagship sedan ahead of its public debut at next
month’s Frankfurt motor show.
The final entry in the Korean manufacturer’s
rejuvenated passenger car rollout that began
in July 2004 with the Cerato small car, the new
Optima will go on sale here in mid-2006.
While Kia’s all-new Rio light car is launched in
Australia next week, the new Optima will arrive
around the same time the second-generation
Carnival goes on sale in both short-body and 11seater Grand Carnival guises.
According to Kia Australia officials, the 2006
Melbourne motor show’s switch from March
to February means it is unlikely to make its
Australian debut until the Brisbane show, which
will be held in March
next year.
Almost certain to remain a V6-only sedan
model, Australia’s next Optima (known as
Magentis in Europe) is likely to continue
exclusively with a 2.7-litre V6, though it will also
be available with a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine
in other markets.
Longer, wider, higher and riding on an extended
2720mm wheelbase, the new Optima is claimed
to deliver a more spacious interior and a larger
boot. It measures 4735mm long, 1805mm wide
and 1480mm tall.
Kia claims active and passive safety levels are
also enhanced, with standard equipment to include
anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, rear
parking sensors, active front head restraints and
front, side and curtain airbags.
“Through hard work and dedication, we
have totally transformed our product range in
recent years,” said Kia Motors
Corporation senior executive
vice-president and chief
operating
officer,
Yong-Hwan Kim. “Starting with the Sorento 4x4,
followed by the Picanto small car, the Cerato, the
Sportage compact SUV and most recently the new
Rio, we have demonstrated Kia’s determination
to deliver a modern, highly competitive range of
cars with immense customer appeal.
“With every new Kia model we have also
demonstrated the growing ‘Power to Surprise’ of
our developing global brand.”
According to Australian Kia importer and
distributor Ateco Automotive, the car’s increased
size, specification and positioning mean the new
Optima is likely to be priced higher than the
current model.
Kia’s first Optima arrived here in May 2001,
featuring a 127kW/229Nm 2.7-litre V6. Facelifted
in April 2004, the car received a performance
boost to 132kW/245Nm, extra safety features,
a manual-mode four-speed auto and a reduced
price-tag ($26,950).
Despite competing in the high-volume large-car
segment in Australia, Optima has failed to make
an impact on its Australian-made competitors.
Kia sold just 25 Optimas in July – to be outsold by
all in its class except for Holden’s Vectra V6 – and
has notched up 855 Optima sales so far in 2005.
Commanding just 0.9 per cent of Australia’s
large-car segment, Optima ranks ahead of
both Mitsubishi’s Verada and parent company
Hyundai’s Sonata V6 – which was in run-out until
the fifth-generation Sonata arrived here in June
– on year-to-date terms.
What is Glass’s Future Values?
Combined software that enables forecasting of residual and
future values of cars, trucks, motorcycles and caravans.
Includes a bulk fleet valuation tool that can interface with
your database.
Glass’s Future Values is quick and easy to use and provides
reliable forecasting information for efficient fleet management.
John Mellor's
GoAuto
e
Forecast like never before!
-news is produced by Automotive NetWorks, Australia’s most innovative automotive publishing group
eurotaxglass.com.au
For moreAdvertising
information
callSteve
Glass’s
on (03)
3009
Phone: (03) 9598 6477 E-mail: [email protected]
manager:
Butcher
– Ph:9663
0419 562
110
John Mellor's
e
GoAuto
-news
A U G U S T 1 7 , 2 0 0 5 Page 8
Loungeroom
wizard
Soft, sensuous Citroen
concept points to
all-new mini-MPV
By MARTON PETTENDY
and NEIL McDONALD
CITROEN has revealed yet another concept that
hints at what its next-generation C4 Picasso minipeople-mover will look like.
The C-Sportlounge, as it has been dubbed,
will receive its first public airing at next month’s
Frankfurt motor show – two years after the French
manufacturer’s first Picasso-heralding concept,
the C-Airlounge, debuted.
Due to appear in final production form at next
year’s Geneva motor show, the new C4-based
Picasso mini-van will eventually replace the topselling current model, which is based on Citroen’s
aged Xsara small car.
Riding a resurgent compact people-mover
market alongside vehicles like Renault’s original
Megane-based Scenic, the current Xsara Picasso
was so successful in Europe that the British market
accounted for all of Citroen’s
global
right-hand
drive production
capacity.
That, along with the lack of an auto version
until mid-way into its model life, was why the
first Picasso was never sold in Australia – despite
the model being homologated locally.
Next time around, says Citroen, right-hand
drive production capacity will be increased to
meet demand, and a wider variety
of engines and transmissions will be
available from launch.
All of which means the Picasso to be
previewed at Frankfurt has a far greater
chance of being sold in Australia,
competing for customers in the diminishing
market segment now almost solely owned by the
Scenic II.
For now, however, the C-Sportlounge concept
offers a distinctive combination of powerful,
sleek lines and 2+2 comfort and refinement, and
is claimed to capture “the true essence of a 21st
century Grand Tourer”.
The sleek newcomer boasts an imposing front
end, with large chiselled air intakes and elongated,
clear-cut headlamps that feature a strong chrome
sight-line that travels up to the roof along
one of two A-pillars.
The car’s eye-catching demeanour
is further enhanced by flared wheelarches, a wide stance, high waistline and
dramatic alloy wheels.
C-Sportlounge’s sweeping lines have been
designed to optimise aerodynamics and result in
a drag coefficient figure of just 0.26.
Inside, the driver benefits from an aviationinspired design.
Like the Citroen C4, the steering wheel has
a fixed centre boss and controls. There are also
gearchange paddles, while the one-piece driver’s
seat and central console adjust to ensure that the
automatic gearbox and climate-control systems
remain within reach, whatever the seat position.
High-quality materials contribute to the
luxurious ambience of the interior, where a light
and airy feel is ensured by the large windscreen
and sunroof.
C-Sportlounge is fitted with reverse-opening
doors for easy access to the rear seats.
While the production version is certain to
have at least five seats, it is unclear whether
this will make it on to the final Picasso product.
6iiZci^dc
9ZVaZgEg^cX^eVah
VcYHZgk^XZ
BVcV\Zgh
FjdiZhZgk^XZh!gZeV^ghVcYVXXZhhdg^Zhl^i]XdcÒYZcXZl^i]
HjeZghZgk^XZBZcjh!i]ZVjidbViZYeVgihVcYhZgk^XZfjdi^c\hnhiZb#
John;dgbdgZ^c[dgbVi^dc!k^h^illl#^c[dbZY^V#Xdb#VjÄdgXVaa
Mellor's
GoAuto -news is produced by Automotive NetWorks, Australia’s most innovative automotive publishing group
&-%%-&%&%(VcYVh`[dgV[gZZ^ciZgVXi^kZYZbdchigVi^dc89#
e
Phone: (03) 9598 6477 E-mail: [email protected]
Advertising manager: Steve Butcher – Ph: 0419 562 110
DID
YO YO, Utomorrow, and the next day...
R Acar buyers will use GoAuto Online
UR of
Today thousands
NE GEN
Or
XTtheir C
to
next car purchase.
didresearch
Be
N
the
EWY BO
wh
yo
OK
nly
M
to bere th
O
bu
SPA
D
uy e re
y
E
s
-n
pac
L L CE
ot j ader
e
AU HE
ust is r
in
NC RE
t
he
dec ese
c
H Y FO
idi arc
ar
ng hin
cla
ET R
on g w
ssi
?
TODAY
fied
olo hat b
site
ur ran
s.
and d a
a d nd m
eal od
er! el
ac
Online at work or home, car buyers and owners read over
250,000 GoAuto stories each month
– and they can also be reading your ads.
AD SPACE FOR SALE
PAGE
AD TYPE
POSITION
AVAILABILITY
PRICE ex gst
CPM MTH AV.
Homepage
Banner
Top Centre
SOLD
$300 week
7.50
Homepage
Tower
Upper Right
SOLD
$300 week
7.50
Homepage
Tower
Middle Right
Now Available
$300 week
7.50
News story
Banner
Top Centre
Now Available
$450 week
6.40
News story
Tower
Upper Right
SOLD
$450 week
6.40
News story
Tower
Middle Right
Now Available
$450 week
6.40
News story
Island 240
Editorial Centre
Now Available
$600 week
4.40
Car Review Home
Banner
Top Centre
SOLD
$300 week
14.50
Car Review Home
Tower
Upper Right
SOLD
$300 week
14.50
Car Review Home
Tower
Middle Right
SOLD
$300 week
14.50
Car Review Story
Banner
Top Centre
SOLD
$450 week
3.20
Car Review Story
Tower
Upper Right
SOLD
$450 week
3.20
Car Review Story
Tower
Middle Right
SOLD
$450 week
3.20
New Model Diary
Banner
Top Centre
Now Available
$450 week
15.30
(Note: Ad space availability changes week to week so advance bookings are essential. A week is Sunday to Saturday.)
GoAuto does not subscribe to web traffic measurement and reporting services, choosing instead to
use this money on journalists and provide the public with the best independent editorial available.
GoAuto does not spend money buying magazine ads for promotion, as its audience is on the internet.
Check us out at www.goauto.com.au
GoAuto Online is syndicated ‘as is’, into 15 websites including RACV, LeasePlan, Carsales, Interleasing,
Discount New Cars, Red Book, AOL Cars and Glass’s Guide. Ads appear in all sites for the one fixed weekly price
and reach a diverse internet audience.
Secure your ad space by calling Steve Butcher on 0419 562 110 today
John Mellor's
e
GoAuto
-news
A U G U S T 1 7 , 2 0 0 5 Page 10
Lancer turns lean
and mean
By MARTON PETTENDY
WE SAW the teaser sketch back in July: now
Mitsubishi has revealed a photograph of the
concept that heralds one of its most important
new models.
To be officially unveiled at September’s
Frankfurt motor show, the Concept-Sportback
is the first in-the-metal indication of what
the embattled Japanese manufacturer’s nextgeneration Lancer small car will look like.
According to Mitsubishi, the concept “gives
the first indications of the company’s vision for its
next generation of C-segment cars and debuts its
design inspiration for a new European five-door
sports hatchback”.
In a radical departure from the current Lancer,
the five-door hatch was styled after the departure
of controversial French designer Olivier Boulay
and features a distinctive wedge-shaped profile,
sharply-chiselled lines and a wheel-at-each-corner
stance thanks to a long wheelbase and wide wheel
tracks.
Although Mitsubishi’s current Lancer line-
up next week arrives with extra performance
and the rally-inspired, turbocharged AWD Evo
IX flagship, the new-generation model will be
based on a new platform to be shared with a small
Dodge (Caliber) and two Jeep 4WDs.
AUDI Q7
THE ins and outs of Audi’s crucial new Q7 fourwheel drive wagon continue with the emergence
this week of interior photographs.
In addition to the plush cabin appointments,
the seven-seat luxury wagon - scheduled to
make its official debut at next month’s Frankfurt
motor show - features a flexible load area design
enabling individual seats or entire rows to be
folded down to meet specific requirements.
To be launched Down Under at the Australian
International Motor Show in Sydney in October
2006, the Q7 is based on the same platform as the
Volkswagen Touareg and Porsche Cayenne.
Audi Australia told GoAuto earlier this month
that despite those commonalities, the Q7 will be a
“completely different, separate product” and offer
better interior space than both the Touareg and the
segment leader, BMW’s X5.
Stunning 8C set for Pebble Beach debut as Alfa snubs Frankfurt
ALFA Romeo has revealed a convertible version of its breathtakingly
attractive 8C Competizione coupe – dubbed, naturally enough, the
8C Spider.
However, in a departure from tradition, Alfa’s all-new super-cabrio
will make its global public premiere not at Frankfurt next month, but
at Monterey’s Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in California on
September 21.
John Mellor's
GoAuto
Unlike Alfa Romeo’s Brera coupe, which arrives here at the end of
next year as a permanent addition to the local Alfa range, the 330kW
4.2-litre supercharged V8-powered 8C Spider will be strictly limited
in numbers.
Alas, like the 8C coupe unveiled at Frankfurt in 2003, the Spider
will be built as a left-hand drive model only, but that hasn’t stopped
around six well-heeled Aussies expressing interest.
Also styled by Giugiaro, the two-seater 8C Spider features the
same aluminium and carbon-fibre cladding as its coupe stablemate,
which offers 0-100km/h acceleration of 4.5 seconds and a 300km/h
top speed.
Designed as a Porsche 911 rival as Alfa Romeo attempts
to raise its profile in the world of serious sports cars, the 8C
borrows its rear-wheel drive architecture from Maserati, which
like Alfa is owned by Fiat Auto.
Although Alfa has confirmed its will produce 1000 LHD
examples of the 8C Competizione, production timing or
numbersmost
haveinnovative
not been issued
for the publishing
Spider.
-news is produced by Automotive NetWorks, Australia’s
automotive
group
– MARTON
PETTENDY
Phone: (03) 9598 6477 E-mail: [email protected]
Advertising manager: Steve Butcher
– Ph: 0419
562 110
e
John Mellor's
e
GoAuto
-news
A U G U S T 1 7 , 2 0 0 5 Page 11
On a roll...
roll...
After its Swift success,
Suzuki embarks on an
exciting new era
By BYRON MATHIOUDAKIS
A REJUVENATED Suzuki is continuing its
new-model roll-out with at least one all-new
vehicle slated for release annually over the next
six years.
The company has already released the
successful Swift in Australia, along with the APV
mini-van. The promising new Grand Vitara will
be launched at the end of this month.
The models outlined in this report are the ones
heading to Australia.
For Asia, India and Europe there will also be
sub-1.0-litre Kei models such as the eventual
replacement for Suzuki’s segment-dominating
Wagon R+ and all-new Alto 1.0-litre sub-B supermini.
Meanwhile, new sized-up Suzukis for the
United States will include vehicles co-developed
with General Motors, such as a mediumsized 4WD shared with Chevrolet.
There will also be updates of the
GM Daewoo-derived Canadian Swift
(Daewoo Kalos/Holden Barina) as well as
the Forenza/Reno and Verona – also known as
the Lacetti/Holden Viva and Leganza/Magnus.
Here is what Suzuki Australia can look forward
to in the coming six years.
2005 GRAND VITARA III
Following the success of the new-generation
Swift, the Japanese company is embarking on the
release of the third-generation Grand Vitara next
month.
Larger, roomier, safer, more comfortable and
claimed to be significantly better on-road, the
Grand Vitara III will still have the respected offroad capability of its predecessors.
On-road performance will be enhanced via new
suspension – including a multi-link arrangement
at the rear – greater strength and rigidity, a wider
track and improved engines.
For performance off the beaten track, Suzuki
John Mellor's
GoAuto
Concept S2
Grand Vitara
has fused a monocoque body to a ladder-frame
chassis and will continue to offer low-ratio
gearing and a lockable centre diff with what
remains essentially a rear-drive-biased vehicle.
Engine choices for the Australian market will
be limited to a 107kW 2.0-litre four-cylinder unit
and a revised version of the 2.7-litre V6 kicking
out 135kW.
If fuel prices continue to climb,
Suzuki Australia may also look at
including Europe’s 1.9-litre turbo-diesel
four-cylinder engine.
A two-door version will join the neatly
styled four-door wagon, powered by a new 1.6litre four-cylinder engine.
Like today’s model, this shorter variant will
also be available with the soft-top or hard-top
options of the previous Grand Vitara.
Suzuki board member and overseas marketing
chief, Hirotaka Ono, said he instructed his designers
to look at the original Vitara wagon (1988-1997)
for styling and proportion inspiration.
The current Grand Vitara (1997) was a
collaborative effort devised at the General Motors/
Suzuki centre in Canada, with GM’s needs mostly
in mind.
offer a performance-per-dollar ratio that blows
costlier European rivals like the Peugeot 206 GTI
out of the water.
Suzuki has revealed the Sport will feature a
new camshaft for high-rpm performance as well
as low-rev torque accessibility. A variable valve
timing head is expected.
Compared to the model due for release in Japan
in early September, firmer suspension tuning will
also be part of the package for Australian- and
European-specification Swift Sport models,
showing that Suzuki is serious about rekindling
the flame of its GTI predecessor.
Interestingly, Mr Ono cited the Peugeot 206 as
an inspiration for the Swift’s overall packaging.
Suzuki Australia is also investigating threedoor versions of the Swift for introduction here
next year, although general manager David Le
Mottee said pricing continued to be an issue.
This variant is only built in Hungary, and so
attracts a higher price than the Japanese-sourced
Swifts currently sold in Australia.
2007 SWIFT CABRIOLET
Small cabriolets are gaining popularity across
the world, particularly in Europe, however the
This high-performance 1600cc four-cylinder model Suzuki has on its drawing board may not
hot-hatch not only evokes memories of the make it into production.
lamented 1989-2000 Swift GTI, it is meant to
In 2003, the company unveiled a four-seat
convertible version of today’s Swift, a design
study it called Concept-S2.
But it appears that the cabriolet’s biggest
potential market – the US – is ruled out for any
derivation of the current Swift generation.
This is because Suzuki never intended to field
it there and did not employ the expensive and
extensive rear-impact engineering needed to
comply with US regulations.
Thus, Mr Ono was pessimistic about a current
Swift drop-top making it into production.
He did, however, hint that the company has
developed and patented a unique roof system that
will definitely debut when the next-generation
-news is produced by Automotive NetWorks, Australia’s mostSwift
innovative
publishing
group
emergesautomotive
sometime from
2010.
Phone: (03) 9598 6477 E-mail: [email protected]
Advertising manager: Steve
Butcher
–
Ph:
0419
562
110
Continued next page
e
2006 SWIFT SPORT
John Mellor's
e
GoAuto
-news
A U G U S T 1 7 , 2 0 0 5 Page 12
Suzuki
on a
roll
Continued from previous page
2007 SX4
The Liana-usurping SX4 is Suzuki’s vital entry
into the hot small-car segment.
Developed with Fiat and aimed mainly at
Europe, the SX4 boasts a series of unique features
to separate it from its VW Golf and Ford Focus
foes.
Chief among these will be its attractive compact4WD four-door “wagon” styling – the work of
Giugiaro in Italy – that is the basis for Suzuki
referring to the SX4 as its “new crossover”.
A front-wheel drive-based 4WD system is
another, using a 60:40 front:rear drive bias instead
of many rivals’ 80:20 ratio.
Engine choices will include 1.8-, 2.0- and 2.3litre four-cylinder petrol units (Australia is in line
for the latter two), while a 1.9-litre JTD turbodiesel delivered by Fiat might also land here.
It will use a variation of the Grand Vitara III’s
rear-drive-biased 4WD system for genuine offroad ability.
New V6s of 2.8-litre capacity and up
– belonging to the same engine family as the
HFV6s produced by Holden – are on the cards, as
are diesels derived from within the GM family.
Like the smaller SX4, a sedan around the same
size as Audi’s A4 will also be derived from the
4WD wagon. It should share identical mechanical
underpinnings but feature an entirely new skin.
2008 CROSSOVER SEDAN
2009 JIMNY IV
A four-door sedan version of the SX4 is also
coming.
It should feature bespoke body styling in the
more conservative three-box vein, as well as the
all-wheel drive running gear of its donor sibling.
This car has been devised to have greater
appeal to US and Asian markets, regions where
hatchbacks such as the SX4 are not as popular as
regular sedans.
Around the same time, Suzuki will also
introduce a new-generation Jimny.
The fourth-generation Jimny mini-4WD will
retain the current vehicle’s off-road abilities and
hose-down toughness, but in a slightly larger,
more comfortable and far safer package.
Little is known beyond the fact that, as a result,
the next Jimny will probably include a separate
ladder chassis.
Previous Jimny iterations have been the 1974
LJ, 1981 SJ Sierra and the current model launched
here in mid-1998.
2009 MID-SIZED 4WD
The medium-sized 4WD now in development
will be the largest vehicle Suzuki has ever created
in-house.
Mr Ono described the vehicle as roughly the
size of the new BMW 3 Series, although its shape
will be more akin to the X3 or a shrunken Nissan
Murano.
Expect a sporty, stylistic flavour combined
with a spacious five-seater cabin and genuine
driver appeal.
Swift 3-door
2010 SWIFT IV
The latest Swift is a compact light car with
European styling and sporty dynamics in the
modern Japanese idiom.
But its successor will also be developed with a
keen eye on the key US market as well.
This means it will have to be slightly larger (to
pass rear-end collision requirements), and be able
WHAT’S COMING:
Grand Vitara III 4WD
Swift GTI hot hatch
SX4 4WD wagon
Swift Cabriolet
SX4-based sedan
Mid-sized 4WD
Jimny mini-4WD
Mid-sized AWD sedan
Swift IV
Swift IV cabriolet
September 2005
September 2006
February 2007
Late 2007
First quarter 2008
Last quarter 2008
Early 2009
Late 2009
2010
2011
to accommodate larger engines of 1.8- and even
2.0-litre capacity.
Suzuki has been spurred on by the unexpected
success of BMW’s Mini, a car that eschews the
established North American essentials such as
size, large engine displacement and 4WD-like
bulk.
And central to the next Swift’s Stateside
campaign is the definite development of a droptop.
Mr Ono would not confirm whether the current
model would get the chop-top treatment, despite
the existence of the 2003 Concept-S2 design
exercise.
However, he did disclose that a new and
patented folding roof system is on the drawing
board for the next-generation model – effectively
securing the Swift cabriolet’s place on the
production line.
30,000 SALES OR BUST: CLICK HERE
SALES MANAGEMENT TRAINING
Horwath Training are proud to introduce a brand new profit-driven Sales Management Training
Programme with a Diploma-level qualification option.
This innovative and exciting programme is a comprehensive, practical and competency-based course
series that provides tailored management skills, processes, tips and techniques, specific to your current
New and Used Vehicle Sales Managers or Assistant Sales Managers.
The programme runs across 10 business days averaging one day per month throughout 2005/06.
For further details on this course, click on this ad or call
Katica Pavlovic on (03) 8320 2342.
John Mellor's
GoAuto
e
Limited Numbers!
First session out of ten commences:
5 September
05 Pty
Sydney–
05 Brisbane
- 9 September
05
Horwath-by
Motor
Industry Services
Limited
is6anSeptember
independent
practice.
Other independent
Horwath
-news Melbourne
is produced
Automotive
NetWorks,
Australia’s
most innovative
automotive
publishing
group
Horwath Motor Industry Services Pty Limited is an independent
practice. Other independent Horwath practices operate in each of
the nation's financial centres.
Phone: (03) 9598 6477 E-mail: [email protected]
Advertising manager: Steve Butcher – Ph: 0419 562 110
John Mellor's
GoAuto
e
-news
A U G U S T 1 7 , 2 0 0 5 Page 13
“A dollar (spent) on the Internet is
worth a hundred on TV”
- Peter Weedfald, senior vice president
of sales and marketing for Samsung
Electronics addressing a cable TV
conference in Philadelphia last week.
Pay just $600 a
week to secure this
prominent position
to showcase your
products to our
readers.
Pay just
$450 a
week to
secure this
position
for your
special
offers.
GoAuto serves about
60,000 stories a week
to readers researching
cars online.
For details contact Steve Butcher on
[email protected] or 0419 562 110
5PTOOFENGINEWEARHAPPENS
INTHElRSTTENMINUTESFROMACOLD
STARTUP/NLY#ASTROL-AGNATEC
PROTECTSYOURENGINEFROMTHE
MOMENTYOUTURNTHEKEYANDITS
SUITABLEFORALLTYPESOFENGINESBOTH
OLDANDNEW
)TS#ASTROL-AGNATECS5NIQUE
-OLECULAR!TTRACTION5-!THAT
ENABLESTHEOILTO@CLINGTOTHEINTERNAL
SURFACEOFYOURENGINERADICALLY
IMPROVINGENGINEPROTECTION
)NFACT#ASTROL-AGNATECPROVIDES
UPTOLESSWEARTHANORDINARYOILS
DURINGTHECRITICALSTARTUPAND
WARMUPPERIODS
4HANKSTO#ASTROL-AGNATECS5NIQUE-OLECULAR!TTRACTION
ENGINEWEARISA
THINGOFTHEPAST
John Mellor's
GoAuto
e
0ROTECTIONFROMTHE
MOMENTYOUTURNTHEKEY
-news is produced by Automotive NetWorks, Australia’s most innovative automotive publishing group
Phone: (03) 9598 6477 E-mail: [email protected]
Advertising manager: Steve Butcher – Ph: 0419 562 110
John Mellor's
e
GoAuto
-news
A U G U S T 1 7 , 2 0 0 5 Page 14
SLK280
slinks in
By MARTON PETTENDY
MERCEDES-BENZ Australia has announced
the introduction of a third SLK roadster variant,
powered by a 170kW/300Nm 3.0-litre V6.
Representing the start of a V6 engine
offensive that will see Mercedes release 11 new
six-cylinder models over the next few months,
the SLK280 will be priced from $99,900.
It will be positioned between the $86,900
SLK200K and $112,900 SLK350, the latter
accounting for more than half of the 1000-odd
SLK sales since the new model went on sale here
nearly 12 months ago.
Like the SLK350, the 280 offers the 7GTronic seven-speed automatic transmission,
speed-dependent parameter steering and infrared
remote roof operation.
The new 24-valve V6 can take the car from
rest to 100km/h in a claimed 6.2 seconds and
returns a combined fuel consumption figure of
9.5L/100km.
The wheel-and-tyre package comprises tenspoke 17-inch alloys wheels on 225/45 R17
(front) and 245/40 R17 (rear) tyres.
According to Mercedes, its new V6 petrol
and diesel engines will be the best in their
displacement class in terms of power output,
torque, fuel consumption and environmental
friendliness.
Along with the SLK280, they are soon to
become available in E-class and C-class model
variants.
“The new, more affordable V6 roadster will
enable us to target even more conquest sales
from our competitors,” said managing director
of the Mercedes Car Group in Australia, Horst
von Sanden.
UP CLOSE on PERSONNEL
brought to you by Motor
ZETSCHE LOOKS INWARDS
DAIMLERCHRYSLER’S
incoming chief executive
officer Dieter Zetsche
wants a company insider
to
replace
Eckhard
Cordes as the chief of
the Mercedes Car Group,
according to a Reuters
report this week.
Referring to the Financial
Times
Deutschland, Dieter Zetsche
which quoted an unidentified source close
to Zetsche, the report said the incoming
DCX chief considered an outside manager
“the second-best solution” and that he was
prepared to take on the Mercedes job himself
on a temporary basis if no replacement was
found soon.
Whether an “outsider” includes VW
passenger cars chief Wolfgang Bernhard is
a hot topic this week, with DaimlerChrysler
shares rising recently amid expectations
that Mr Bernard plans to return to DCX to
Staff
take over the Mercedes division.
The head of Europe’s largest car
manufacturer has moved to scotch the
speculation, professing in an email to staff
(a copy of which was obtained by Reuters)
that “all the rumours you have heard and
read about me are untrue”.
“I made a promise when I came to Wolfsburg
(VW headquarters) six months ago, and
I will fulfil this promise. I am staying at
Volkswagen,” he reportedly wrote.
FORD COMBINES LINCOLN
THE Ford Motor Co announced last week
it would combine the marketing, sales and
service functions of the Lincoln and Mercury
brands into the Ford stable.
According to the company, this will create
“a more streamlined operation while
strengthening the individual identities for the
Ford, Lincoln and Mercury brands”.
The move will cut the number of US field
organisations from 51 to 22 and reduce the
number of regional offices from 34 to 11.
LAMBO DESIGNER TO SEAT
THE Volkswagen Group
has announced that its
Lamborghini chief designer,
Luc Donckerwolke, will
move to sister brand Seat as
design director. The move is
effective September 15.
Mr Donckerwolke, a 40Luc
year-old Belgian, has led
Donckerwolke
Lamborghini’s design since
1998 and among his list of credits are the
Murcielago and Gallardo super-cars.
He will replace Walter de’Silva, who was
combining the Seat design role with head of
design of the Audi Brand Group. Mr de’Silva
will continue at Audi.
Seat, Audi and Lamborghini are all contained
within the sports branch of the Volkswagen
Group.
If you have any car industry personnel
announcements, please email them to
[email protected].
For help advancing your
Motor Industry Career, please contact us today
• Professional Career Advice
• Australia's No1 Industry Website
• Largest Selection of Vacancies
• Unsurpassed Industry Contacts
John Mellor's
GoAuto
e
• Friendly & Ethical Service
• Expert Resume Preparation
• Personality & Skills Matching
• Discreet Marketing to Employers
-news is produced by Automotive NetWorks, Australia’s most innovative automotive publishing group
Phone: (03) 9598 6477 E-mail: [email protected]
Advertising manager: Steve Butcher – Ph: 0419 562 110
John Mellor's
e
GoAuto
-news
A U G U S T 1 7 , 2 0 0 5 Page 15
GoAuto latest road test
Mercedes-Benz CLS500 four-door coupe
UNLIKE many Mercedes-Benz sedans, the CLS four-door coupe isn’t a car for
the totally pragmatic. Rather, it’s a sensuous sedan that appeals first to
the visual senses before turning completely hedonistic and bathing
the passengers in shameful luxury while titillating the driver with
a melodious, powerful engine and sharp, responsive
handling. The E-class sedan, which donated the CLS’s
basic underlying structure, would be horrified at the
wantonness of it all. Styling appeal is a matter of
individual taste, but there aren’t many who remain
un-captivated by the slinky Benz.
ROAD TEST: CLICK HERE
LAUNCH PAD
AUGUST:
Jeep Grand Cherokee CRD variant
Kia Rio sedan/hatch redesign
Mazda6 sedan/hatch facelift
Mitsubishi Lancer Evo IX sedan
Mitsubishi Lancer engine upgrade
Suzuki Grand Vitara 4WD redesign
330i M
3 SERIES M SPORT
Toyota LandCruiser 4WD facelift
New model diary: CLICK HERE
SC430
LEXUS SC430 REVISION
TOYOTA’S luxury division Lexus has performed
a mild makeover to its SC430 coupe.
Now on sale in Japan and set for an Australian
introduction next month, the SC430 features a
revised grille, adaptive headlights and a new sixspeed automatic transmission, the latter replacing
the current five-speed unit.
The 4.3-litre V8 engine carries over largely
unchanged, while the wheels are now five-spoke
18-inch alloys.
A range of new exterior and interior finishes
will also be available.
Although other Lexus offerings fare well in
Australia, the current model SC430 has struggled
against more sportier rivals. According to
VFACTS figures, just 90 SC430s were sold last
year. So far this year 56 have found buyers.
HYUNDAI THAI BID
BMW has announced the availability of an M
Sport Package for its E90 3 Series sedan.
Featuring 17-inch M light alloy wheels, M
Sport suspension, an M bodykit (comprising front
and rear airdams, fog-lights and side sill covers)
and an M Sport multi-function steering wheel, the
optional kit can be ordered now – for delivery at
the end of the year.
Available on 320i Executive ($5500) and
325i/330i variants (both $4500), the kit also
includes high-gloss satin chrome finishes on the
window and mirror frames, BMW Individual
Anthracite headlining and front sports seats.
HIGH-CALIBER ENGINES
Murano
MURANO HITS TOWN
NISSAN Australia’s new Murano five-seater
crossover wagon hits the showrooms this week,
priced from $51,990.
Powered by Nissan’s familiar 3.5-litre V6
– in this case producing 172kW at 6000rpm and
318Nm at 3600rpm – and mated to a six-speed
continuously variable transmission, the Murano
is Nissan’s first soft-roader and is pitted against
prestige wagons like the Lexus RX330. The new
Pathfinder? Not according to Nissan.
The company expects to sell around 300
Muranos each month, with the range-topping
$56,990 Ti expected to account for 70 per cent
of sales.
CHRYSLER last week confirmed production of
its forthcoming Dodge Caliber and outlined the
powertrains the Neon-replacing small car would
offer.
Set to form the basis of the Dodge brand’s relaunch
Down Under late in 2006, the Caliber hatchback
will provide international markets with the first
application of the so-called “World Engine”
family of (104kW 1.8, 112kW 2.0 and 127kW
2.4-litre) four-cylinder petrol engines (all with
dual variable valve timing), a new 100kW/310Nm
2.0-litre direct-injection turbo-diesel engine
and a continuously variable transmission with
sequential-manual control.
KOREAN auto giant Hyundai is understood to
be thrashing out a joint-venture deal in Thailand
and is separately considering building a full-line
LOGISTICAL MOVE
manufacturing plant in south-east Asia.
The two strategic moves, reported last week
AUTOMOTIVE logistics firm AutoNexus is
by the news agency Reuters, have the potential
building a high-tech distribution centre and
to increase Hyundai’s competitiveness in key VW LUXURY COUPE
headquarters at Greystanes Business Hub, Sydney,
ASEAN countries, including Australia.
VOLKSWAGEN has confirmed it will build a due for completion next month.
They will also be important planks in its quest luxury four-door coupe based on the Passat sedan,
Among the features of the new centre will
to become one of the world’s top five auto brands which will go head-to-head with the Mercedes- be a modular high-density storage system that
by 2010.
can adapt to various technologies. It will have
Benz CLS.
Hyundai Motor Co general manager, Han
Chairman of the VW Passenger Car group, dedicated merchandise facilities, four inbound
Chang-hwan, told Reuters the company was in Wolfgang Bernhard, confirmed the vehicle last and six outbound docks, as well as 1100sqm of
John Mellor'sjoint-venture talks with a Thai partner.
“concrete”
office space to accommodate operational staff.
week.
The Korean manufacturer
set a target
sell
AutoNexusautomotive
provides national
supply
chain
Marking
a further NetWorks,
move into sister
brand Audi
GoAuto has-news
is to
produced
by
Automotive
Australia’s
most innovative
publishing
group
more than 100,000 cars in south-east Asia in 2006, territory, the luxury four-seater coupe will sit services to Audi, Jaguar, Lotus, Peugeot, Proton,
Phone:
(03) 9598 6477
E-mail:
[email protected]
manager:
Steve Butcher
– Ph:
0419 562 110
up from this year’s target of 80,000
vehicles.
SsangYong,
Subaru and
Volkswagen.
between
Passat
and the Phaeton limousine.Advertising Seat,
e