Read previous letters to the Carsales Network here
Send your submissions to Editor@CarPoint.com.au
Large car loyalists a mixed blessing
True, Holden and Ford build large format, and let's face it, if they did not we would be faced with having to drive a large import.
Sure some people want small cars; great, there are plenty to pick from. Both Holden and Ford got where they are on large-form cars.
Without the motorsport involvement for them they would be hard pressed to sell. No one really cares what GM or Ford USA have in mind for global image, listen to the people that buy the product. I drive a V8 Statesman, and will never purchase a small car... not now, not ever.
Grant
BMW X5
From an '09 X5 owner: Maybe you're not aware of some major design flaws.
1) Air Con favours an LHD world, as the passengers get a good 4-5 degree C cooler output than driver here in the RHD world. Maybe that is why they let you drive it in the cool month.
2) Incompatible with LED (certainly just released technology) trailer lights.
3) Run-flat tyres get about 16K km before needing replacement at $800 a piece.
SW
Commodore Series II breaks cover
I think that your article is incorrect in stating that Holden's 40 per cent reduction in CO2 emissions is really only "...2 and 10 per cent".
The article states that this is because "...you need to burn between 30 and 50 per cent more E85 to travel the same distance as you would in a car powered by regular unleaded...".
However, the point that you are missing is that Holden is claiming a consumption of 9.1L/100km. That is, not a 30 to 50 per cent increase in consumption to cover the 'same' 100km.
Your article would be correct if the consumption figures reflected that increase to "...cover the same distance. That is, a consumption of 11.8 to 18.5 L/100.
Regards,
Mark Anfruns
Ken Gratton says: Mark, the figure of 9.1L/100km provided by Holden is based on running the respective car on 100 per cent 91 RON petrol -- without any ethanol blended in with the fuel. Holden says that since there's no government-mandated standard for testing E85 engines and the E85 blend can vary considerably to allow easier cold weather starting (ie: could be 'E66' in winter months), nobody can say for sure what the fuel consumption is when running the biofuel alone. Based on Holden's own drive program for the new car, through the Adelaide hills, the trip computer was registering average fuel consumption as high as 14L/100km or thereabouts. The 40 per cent difference cited in the article might be conservative, for all we know -- and we don't mean 'conservative' in the sense of conserving the environment.
The centre screens look like a tacked on afterthought.
A triumph of bean-counting over engineering design.
I much prefer the Audi and BMW treatments where the Satnav/Entertainment screens are far better integrated into the dash.
Ken
Toyota Rukus vs Kia Soul
The Soul fared well, considering it is much older than the Rukus.
Chris
Ken Gratton says: 'Much'?
How ugly can they make a car? Well there is the proof, twice. $28k, you have to be joking. I would rather ride on the bus than sit in one of these. For $28k I could buy a V8 Monaro and at least drive on the road with pride, these two go right up there with Prius and fortwo.
Bored
Refreshed Ford Mondeo
I am due to hand in my 3YO TDCi Mondeo sedan in mid 2011. It has been a beautiful car to drive although a little more torque is desirable for the large but comfy body. If Ford chooses not to bring out the new engines as some kind of misguided protectionism of the local FG series, then I won't be going back. The Australian motoring public has been waiting for the introduction of smarter engine technologies in the local product for years, to no avail. Bolt-ons to old engines are not good enough. The new (imported) Fiesta/Focus range is a good start, hopefully it continues with the Mondeo.
S Jatkin
Ken Gratton says: Not sure that the latest Falcon engine is simply a case of bolt-ons for an old engine design. It's a fairly efficient power unit for such a large-displacement petrol engine. Ford has not said that we won't get the upgraded diesel for the Mondeo and, if they can at least reduce the turbo lag of the current engine, then we'd be pretty happy with that.
Ford Fiesta
Can't wait for the new LX sedan (shame no Zetec offered here). I'm looking to update my LS Focus Ghia with something smaller but more economical, particularly on the highway. Seems like the Fiesta diesel sedan will be the perfect choice.
Just a shame it misses out on those nice features of my Focus that you don't even think to look for in a car, but love when you have them, like its spaceless boot hinges, the global opening windows, and so many other things.
I used to be a Holden man, but around the time they switched to cheaper Korean sourced product, Ford switched from Korean to Euro, and I jumped teams. If the pricing remains the same, and diesel is only a $2000 premium, Ford is definitely on to a winner.
Daniel
The article keeps referring to the L mode of the Powershift Auto as 'Low' gear, however it is actually a sports mode, which holds onto the gears longer etc. This is to suffice for the lack of manual override.
Rhys Salter
FPV announces new supercharged V8
About time FPV stepped up their game with the V8s! They've had a superior product for a long time but always lacked in the engine/performance sector.
Looking forward to seeing what sort of figures they put down, but more so to hear the whine of the supercharger and V8 at redline!
Golf Owner
When installed in Mustangs, the naturally-aspirated Coyote V8 manages to produce 300kW on regular fuel, yet the 'exhaust system, intake manifold, supercharger unit, lubrication system, crank shaft damper and many of the final drive accessories' specifically designed for this car and lovingly hand-made in Melbourne result in... Fifteen extra kilowatts? Even the best-case increase of 35kW leaves me wondering what it is that the supercharger and FPV-specific parts must be doing aside from making lots of lovely noises.
Best we not mention Jaguar's 380kW/625Nm five-litre supercharged V8, then, or the whiz-bang Phase 5 that will command a tidy premium for offering what you'd expect a brand-new supercharged five-litre vee-eight to offer in the first place.
With all that said, I bet you it sounds like sin and goes like the end of the world, and I'll forget all about being quite so bitter.
Mathew
RX-7 long way off: Maeda
You mean THIS GUY designed the RX-8?? PLEASE, PLEASE keep him away from the next RX-7 so he won't ruin that one too!!!
Jeff
RS hot hatch double-act for Sydney
Slight error guys... the Focus RS is not All-Wheel Drive, but in fact Front-Wheel Drive.
Steven Teixeira
Ken Gratton says: Thanks Steven...
BMW advert banned
Two people complain in Australia and it gets removed? Two people out of a 21 million population? That's 0.000000095%. Is that all we need in this country for action? Unbelievable.
I thought this was a great ad! Very smart!
Aaron
Stand-out pricing for Peugeot coupe
Looks nice, but hopefully for anyone who buys one the build quality is better than our 2008 307 wagon.
So far:
Reversing sensor - faulty
Fuel pump - faulty
Interior lighting - faulty
Windscreen wipers - faulty
Seat belts - faulty
Seat adjustment - faulty
Door lock - faulty
Ian Hay
I saw the new RCZ during a recent trip to Europe, pictures don't it justice, it's absolutely GORGEOUS from any angle!
Marc
How long before the convertible? Folding metal or glass roof preferably. Seems just made for it.
Graeme Boucher
New Falcon GT sold out for three months
My opinion on this article is ... this has to be one of the hottest cars on todays roads for the money. The last time I got excited about an Aussie car was the BA Falcon Turbo!
Paul Tripodi
Hybrid for Legend
What we really want in a Legend is a V8.
Daryl
Engineer shortage a cultural issue
There is no shortage of engineers. It is all bullshit, and I would never work for any organisation that claims there is a shortage anyway.
John
Aussie vehicle production pros and cons
I drove past a Kizashi, looked Okay, but it would be like trying to wear shoes that are too small for me. Australians need big cars for a big country. Holdens and Fords are also very good value for the money.
David Salter
Toyota's popular family-hauler rises to a new altitude
You are joking when you say this car is frugal, 11L/100, I drive a 1977 Ford, F250, 4WD that averages 11.5L/100, How much are you paid to say that?
Rob
Ken Gratton says: How much are you paid to tell people an F250 4WD returns 11.5L/100km?! And in what universe? We adhere to three testing cycles for fuel consumption: City, Combined and Extra-Urban; you're obviously basing your Ford's figures on a fourth -- the fantasyland cycle. And by the way, 11.0L/100km is the claimed combined-cycle figure in ADR-approved testing for the Kluger.
Peugeot 308 XSE Turbo
I have a petrol turbo auto. Is this really just a three-speed with 4th gear just an overdrive? As below 50km/h it will not go into 4th gear in manual mode. In auto mode not until it reaches 70 km/h and drops back into 3rd when speed drops down to 60km/h?
Johno
New Falcon GTHO inches closer
There has already been a Phase 5
Rob Booth
Ken Gratton says: Not from the factory. There was an aftermarket conversion for the XD Falcon, but that was not with official sanction from Ford.
Mondeo receives efficient new Powershift transmission
Interesting article, but more photos would be good.
Chris
It doesn't take much to go bush in your SUV
Considering the amount of the soft-SUVs on the roads nowadays it is good to hear some words of encouragement about their off-road capabilities.
Being a driver of one of them myself I found some of the tips and tricks in the article very helpful. Well done guys, keep the good job of bringing such great articles in the future!
Ilin
My opinion on this article is good, but when discussing tyre deflation, four things should have been mentioned:
1) You need a good 12 volt pump to reinflate the tyres when the off road stuff is over.
2) A warning needs to be given to restrict speed substantially when the tyres are deflated to avoid them overheating and bursting and to avoid them coming off the rims.
3) Deflation on rough roads usually reduces the chance of punctures, as the tyre is more inclined to comply with sharp objects rather that resist them.
4) Deflated tyres do less damage to the track, thus making them easier to traverse for others, while also reducing the chances of authorities closing that track to the public due to excessive use and deterioration.
Graeme Daniels
New HSV Grange points to E3 upgrades
Seems strange to have all those race indicators on the most luxurious HSV.
However I hope GM replaces the LS3 engines soon. Always felt outdated in my opinion. For a 6.2L V8, its power output doesn't seem great, especially with the rocker arms.
John
I'm sure that HSV have done a fabulous job of updating this latest iteration of the HSV lineup. However, for the last couple models the HSVs in general have been getting bashed hard by the ugly stick. I had to reach for the anti-emetics when I saw that new Grange for the first time. Pick up your game HSV, PLEASE!!!
Daren Vidler
Ken Gratton says: Beauty is very much in the eye of the beholder Darren. A lot of people will agree with you, but I can tell from personal experience that the HSVs attract a lot of admiring looks on the road.
Citroen DS3 pricing announced
Are Citroen Australia kidding on the pricing? The DSport retails for around GBP£13,000 in the UK or approx AUD$22,000. How does Citroen Oz arrive at a list price of $36,000? Was very interested in this car, but not at that crazy price!!
Daniel
Holden Spark on sale post-Sydney motor show
The pricing for this car will be $12,990 drive away. Putting the smaller motor in the car made the car a lot cheaper, thus passing on the saving to the customer. (FACT)
James
The Spark got a four-star rating Euro NCAP because it didn't have the stability control standard; it's optional and when it comes to Australia it will have it standard and should get five-star ANCAP rating. Let's not start putting the car down already and let's get the facts right.
Sash
Ken Gratton says: Five-star ANCAP is not a 'fact' until the car is tested. We'll be happy to report the Barina Spark achieving that rating when it happens -- assuming it will, which is something you're doing ahead of the fact.
I am so happy to see the Spark in Australia! I first saw it on the Korean Daewoo sight. I will definitely be taking this for a test drive when it comes to Australia.
Harrison
Upgrade for Grand Vitara
My opinion on this article is: it contributes to current rumors, unfortunately. IMHO, the Suzuki image will be harmed by the discontinuance of the Grand Vitara flagship. The GV V6 is an outstanding vehicle with no serious competitor for those who know about off-road driving and are aware of the unique features of the GV V6. Unfortunately, Suzuki marketing people don't seem prepared to translate those unique features into sales figures.
RogerCP
Tiguan scores DSG self-shifter across 2011 range
There is also a slight interior revision... New steering wheel!
Steven
BMW M3 Pure edition announced for Oz
Seems BMW is milking the victims by raiding the parts bin... sad.
William
Ken Gratton says: Victims? In M3s? I demand to be similarly victimised...
Audi RS5
Ordered one after seeing your article -- currently drive the S5 with a chip pushing it to 295kw -- but I reckon the RS5 will be a real driver's experience.
Nick
Holden's ethanol experiment
What a crock! You use 50 per cent more of this rubbish to go the same distance, but guess what? It's not 50 per cent cheaper... Somebody is going to make a huge profit! I'd rather have LPG.
Rob Possingham
Skoda Octavia 90 TSI
The only question people looking to buy this car will want to know is whether it's better than the Golf.
Renuhoh
Ken Gratton says: It's not, but it's a lot like a Golf 5 with a larger luggage compartment. For a lot of people that might be enough.
Mercedes-Benz C 250 CGI Avantgarde
Good description of a quality vehicle. I have had my AMG-optioned 250 CGI for five months. What a great vehicle. For quality build and fit, safety, ride, handling and performance for the price, nothing comes close. Performance is outstanding. I also own a Falcon XR6 Turbo, and the Merc is faster to 60km/h and not much in it to 100km/h. The engineering of this car is remarkable. My vehicle is fitted with the Dynamic handling option (sports mode) which makes it even more responsive. Overall 5 out of 5 for me!
Anthony
HiLux latest in Toyota recall campaign
Unbreakable my bum, I've owned two Cruisers and they are as breakable as any other vehicle. HiLux recall, 100 series recall and nine million vehicles in the US... Give me a Nissan any day, they are twice as reliable from my experience. Wouldn't buy a Toyota again with counterfeit money.
Ray Davis
Next Mercedes-Benz SLK a mini-Gullwing
God, where do I start...
1. The new 5.5 litre engine is turbocharged, not supercharged.
2. There is no way this engine will be put in anything smaller than an E-class.
3. The SLK and C-class will most likely get a turbocharged 3.5 Litre V6.
4. It makes no sense for MB to develop a new V6 when a 2.0-litre version of their 1.8 turbo four would have similar performance, unless it is to be used primarily in turbo form. This turbo V6 would likely replace the atmo 4.7 and a hi-po version used by AMG in the C63, SLK55. Do you remember back to when AMG said it couldn't afford to sustain the 6.2 V8 in these models? How on Earth would the 5.5T be any cheaper? Not to mention it would give these cars a torque-to-weight ratio similar to a Veyron! A little logical thinking never goes astray guys!!
James Fahey
Ken Gratton says: It's a bit early to be definitive about this car and what sort of engines will power its different variants.
Commodore stays put, but Caprice sticker slashed
My opinion on this article is ...Once the buyers who automatically buy new models have bought their cars, Holden will have to discount again to move these cars. My guess is by March-April next year the SV6 will be at $35,990 drive away again.
Goodfa
Mitsubishi NS Pajero X DI-D
Hi there,
Could it be confirmed whether or not Mitsubishi has dropped the SWB version of Pajero from its lineup? Thank you.
Regards
Nauman
Ute muster to challenge world records again
The Australian klan in blue.
Derrick
Lemon laws proposed for Australia
The quicker the government brings in these lemon laws the better, for a lady like me. I purchased a new Subaru Outback in 2008 and have been in trouble with it over 100 times and am sick of being told that Subaru cannot fix a problem that they cannot isolate. It intermittently has heat coming in through the vents with air conditioning on or off and the car reaches temperatures over 50 degrees. You need never put the heater on in the winter and in the summer it is unbearable in the cab, as it happens, as I say, with air on or off. I have to stop the car and sit on the side of the road and it has been back to Subaru dealers on four occasions with no result.
Pauline Carr
HSV releases E3 models anniversary Maloo
Doesn't taking the car onto a racing track void warranty?
Is this HSV's sneaky way of checking on car abuse, and they may also be able to compare car speeds against specific speed limits (does breaking the law void warranty?).
These features help the manufacturers avoid warranty claims... Don't be sucked in to thinking this is for the owner.
Dave
The car looks crap, the design and angles of the spoilers do not match the car at all.
Jay
Latest WRX and STi hit Aussie roads
Can you please advise when the new WRX is on sale in Australia? Thank you.
Don
Lambo teases Murcielago replacement
WTF is 'ascendancy'? I demand more programmatic specificity from an edumacated journalizer.
Poison Eagle
Holden Colorado range
I've been driving Colorado LXDC V6 for 70,000km. I think you miss the real things that that make you regret the purchase. Third set of front shocks. ABS is constantly blipping due to poor wheel road contact. throttle control is poor at best, no engine braking deceleration, just won't slow down, have to drag brakes, over-revving, pushes when in gear at low revs, slow to build revs, driver's seat gives back pain, poor load carrying, horizontal crack in center of windscreen seems popular, wiring for injectors blocks access to engine dip stick (stupid!) you have to run the fan to get any flow through the vents. Have you ever tried to use the cup holders? No factory roof racks offered, scraping plastics on steering column, stupid load rating on tyres. Notchy gearbox... I should stop. I'm getting angry, speakers are good (with aftermarket head unit).
;) )
Brades
New Captiva to go on show in Paris
Still waiting for them to include the silent "r" in the name plate of this Daewoo abomination
Peter D
Toyota Camry Hybrid Luxury
Nice to finally read a balanced review about a hybrid. I've owned a Prius for over five years and consider it to be brilliant. I have been disappointed with the bagging it so often has received in reviews by testers who clearly haven't driven the vehicle for any great length. As you have stated, the fact that Toyota has created a vehicle that feels quite normal to operate but in fact is a technological marvel, they deserve better press. Overall average consumption in my Prius for 210,000kms has been 4.7lts per 100kms and it's been typical Toyota reliable, i.e 100 per cent. I'd never go back to a "conventional car".
Regards
James Orr
Busted: First rendering of new Mazda BT-50
No matter how good the new BT-50 will be, my experience with a 2002 Mazda Bravo 4x4 diesel and Mazda HQ's total disinterest means that I will NEVER buy one! My 2002 120,000km Bravo has needed new diesel pump, new cylinder head, radiator and water pump total cost $9000. All this despite no heavy use, no towing and servicing every 5000kms (ie half the factory recommendation) !
Marc
Suzuki Kizashi Sport AWD
How does a car that is expected to receive a five-star ANCAP rating, as well as already received the maximum stars in US testing only manage a 2.5/5 in your score, when in the safety section you don't mention anything bad about its safety features at all?
Andrew
Ken Gratton says: I really must develop a standard-format response for those readers who can't be bothered reading 'about our ratings' and think that the safety rating should exactly mirror the ANCAP rating. The Kizashi hasn't actually undergone testing by ANCAP yet, but even assuming it earns a five-star rating, how should we score it for safety against the Subaru Liberty -- already a five-star ANCAP-rated car? And by the way, do you not think that perhaps our safety rating should also take into account the car's ability to avoid a prang in the first place? That's something that ANCAP doesn't evaluate...
Volkswagen Amarok
It sounds great, just hurry up and get them into Australia. We have a Tiguan and if the Amarok handles like that it will be good.
Ian Morrison
Porsche boosts 911 range with Carrera GTS
I'm pretty sure the accompanying photos are of a Boxster and two Caymans.
Ian Brown
Ken Gratton says: You'd be right Ian, thanks for pointing out the error, which occurred during production.
Guide to leasing cars
As there are less than 2 per cent of Australian wage earners in the $180,000 plus bracket, I disagree with the statement: "The majority of people that do fall into the bracket of having a vehicle packaged generally have some component of the salary in the 45 cents in the dollar, the highest tax bracket."
Novated leases can work for salaries starting from $40,000. Everyone's scenario is different but set up correctly, you will find novations give a better take home pay.
Regards,
Shannon
Peugeot RC-Z
Regarding the price -- this car sells for about the same price as a Golf GTI in the UK. Why the high price in Australia?
Gleave
It may look good, but all Peugeots look the same. That is very boring to be honest, not innovative at all.
Chris
Falcon low points
I replaced VS Commodore with an AU Falcon and felt it was a far better car to drive and more economical to run -- also better looking than the then VT Holden. I have since replaced the AU with a BA in 2004, and that with a BF in 2010. I still regret moving the AU on! I still feel that it was a bloody good car, despite what the press said!
George Piotto
Ken Gratton says: Not sure about the economy of the Falcon, George, but most people who could look past the styling accepted it was a decent enough car.
Ethanol: Volatile substance, volatile pricing
Here we go again, the petrol companies find a cheap alternative to petrol (E85) for all of our future energy needs and they do the usual and jack the price and link it to petrol... mmm… who could have seen that coming?
David Lefrancke
Just demonstrates that the oil companies do not base their retail prices on cost but more so on what they think the market will pay: "we base our bio fuel 34 cents below premium" It is time our elected or non elected governments took a stand on this subject, we are taxed and ripped off enough.
oz48
Article does not say how cost compares per kilometre. E85 fuel consumption is say 25-30 per cent higher, so E85 needs to be at least 25-30 per cent cheaper than regular fuel.
John
Ken Gratton says: According to Caltex, their E-Flex is already roughly that much cheaper, as a percentage of 91 RON ULP pricing. Holden has been unable to supply information concerning the amount of E85 consumed on the road, so we're speculating to say more than we have. It's something of a storm in a teacup in one sense. If you object to E85 and reckon it's an environmental smoke screen from the oil industry, you can always stick with conventional petrol...
Yet to see what has been done to address the effect E10 and E85 have on catalytic converters. GM tests with E20 have proven it eats them, just like tetra-ethyl lead does. TEL was banned, why then is Ethanol approved?
Les Lyons
I currently drive a VY 2 commodore on LPG and love it. As stated in your article the only issue is loss of boot space. I was looking to upgrade within the next few months and was hoping that Holden would have a dedicated LPG option by then. Hoping that it would also be a Sportwagon option. Have you heard anything about this happening in the future? As for Ethanol: If we are expected to help the environment by buying this alternative fuel it needs to be a lot cheaper or what's the point? Sure it will be 20 -- 30 per cent cheaper to buy, but it sounds like it will take 20 -- 30 per cent more of it to run the car. So whats the point? Except of course to feel better for the environment. What are production costs for Ethanol? If it's cheaper to produce than petrol and is produced here why will it only be 34c cheaper? By my calculations it should only be slightly more than LPG. I think Caltex is just worried that if it is priced too cheaply, as it should be, that people will stop buying 100 per cent petrol, thus reducing their profits. This is to be expected of a petrol company I suppose. I think I will just hope for the dedicated LPG option VE, keep the VY a little longer or (can't believe I'm saying this) think about buying the Ford LPG.
Shane Gostlow
Ken Gratton says: Shane, every once in a while a rumour surfaces about Holden developing a single-fuel LPG system, but it never gets any further than rumour status.
Territory staked out
Looks ugly, why don't they bring the flippin' Kuga here?
Vaughan
Mitsubishi ASX
Have taken delivery of my ASX only three weeks ago; drove it in rain, hail, 90km winds... Very wet roads at this time. I am unable to fault this vehicle in any way. Before I had the ASX I had a 2008 Lancer -- not a nice car at all. The ASX is 100 per cent better.
Peter
Toyota 200 LandCruiser GXL petrol and diesel
Have owned a Prado and TD Landcruiser100 series, the new 200 Turbo Diesel GLX is too plain and boring, spent the extra and moved up to VX with a few more options.
Well worth the dollars for leather/moon roof and wood grain and better trim etc and the long term knowledge that the vehicle is strong and reliable.
Thought about a BMW or Touareg. They won't last the distance and aren't workhorses. Sorry, Cruiser has the runs on the board Mr Euro... The bigger 18in wheels make the body look some what better as well, the 17in wheels are too small.
Sahara not worth the extra.
Martin
VW announces unlimited kilometre warranty
As an ex-owner of a Mk 5 Golf I can see why they waited until new models before doing this, as mine was totally unreliable.
Dann
Aussie-designed Ranger to debut in Sydney
Come on, I just want to see this thing.
Roy
Now all the T6 needs is either a large six with 150+kW and 400Nm or if the Coyote V8 fits that would be a dream. Sorry, but I like my cars big and with big gutsy motors. Fuel is not an issue, towing and overtaking power is.
David Pickford
Holden Commodore VE Series II
My opinion on this article is it's a good article, but assuming you'll get better economy at school-zone speeds than higher speeds can be a furphy. I've found in personal testing of my BA Falcon with fuel usage readout, that doing a particular stretch of hilly semi-rural road at a more-or-less constant 75km/h returns better economy than at 60 or 50km/h. Why? Because the overdrive kicks over in fourth at 75km/h, thereby using equivalent engine revs as at 60km/h but covering the kays more quickly, leading to better overall economy. Interesting stuff.
Mark
Ken Gratton says: It is interesting stuff. By rights, the Commodore's SIDI engine should be more economical down to about 60km/h, or so Holden has suggested since the introduction of the engine with the 10MY update last year. Certainly, the 3.6-litre SIDI V6 coupled with the six-speed automatic will run very lean down to 1000rpm in top gear without kicking down. At that speed, we found it to be remarkably frugal, but in the real world you'll never drive a car that way.
I'm curious to know why you have marked the Commodore range only two points out of five for safety, when every single car in the Commodore range is a five star safety car?
Shak
Ken Gratton has pasted the following text: Dear..., thank you for your enquiry concerning the Carsales Network safety rating for the BMW 5 Series/Holden Commodore/Volkswagen Golf/other we recently reviewed. As we're sure you'll appreciate -- because the point has been made on a few occasions in the past -- we base our assessment of a vehicle's safety on more than just the NCAP rating it scored during a single crash test. We also take into account active safety, which can be defined as how well the car can avoid the crash in the first place. Logically, if our safety rating were merely a reflection of the NCAP rating, we wouldn't need to publish both. Our safety rating is also based on how the vehicle being tested compares with its peers. Therefore, your query concerning the Ford Falcon/Mitsubishi ASX/Renault Laguna/other presumes that the vehicle is evaluated in isolation, without considering how it compares with its logical competitor(s), which may also be (a) five-star NCAP-rated vehicle(s) and may also rate highly for its/their ability to avoid a collision in the first place. It's our aim with our safety ratings to remain relevant and not provide you a meaningless datum point that 97 per cent of cars can attain. Should you need further explanation, please feel free to correspond again and we shall endeavour to straighten out any confusion arising…
Just wondering why with an across the range five-star ANCAP rating the Commodore only scores 2.5 stars in your review?
Darren Johnson
How can you say up in your ratings "Safety: 2.5/5.0" and then say later on "With even the utes in the range securing five-star ANCAP honours in the recent past, the entire Series II range is right up there for crash safety." It just doesn't match!!!
Ashford Bell
You only scored the VE Series II 2.5 stars for safety, yet commented (correctly) that "the entire Series II range is right up there for crash safety." Seems designed to ensure the humble Commodore doesn't score too well when it is clearly worth more than three stars overall.
warrenBONES
"X Factor" of 4 out of 5 for a mid-lifecycle refresh Commodore? You gotta be kidding.
Patrick
Ken Gratton says: The X Factor was bolstered by the Caprice V in particular -- something you seem to have ignored. Show me another car of similar size, comfort, performance and dynamics for the money and I'll grant you a lower score for what is, after all, a subjective assessment. My choice, in other words...
Hello,
I just can't agree with the gripes with the centrally located power window switches.
The centre location is ergonomically superior as it gives the front seat passenger access to all of the window controls, as well. I know from experience that, when you have a sick child in the back, and you (the driver) has one hand on the wheel and the other on a can of drink, then there are very real benefits of having the wife being able to wind down that back window!
I think that the central location is the correct way to go and that having the master controls on the driver's door is the location that should be questioned.
Would anyone sensibly argue that the stereo controls should be located on the driver's door? I don't think so; then why do you support the master window controls being there?
As for the handbrake; different, yes. Hard to operate; no.
My wife has a FG XR6. Nice car, but try adjusting the bass / treble on the Premium sound system quickly. This takes about 6 separate pushes/ twirls to do. Now, that is ergonomically unsound, unsafe and annoying!
Can someone please re-invent volume, bass & treble knobs!
Thanks for reading my thoughts. It would be nice if they are posted somewhere to balance your article.
Regards,
Mark Anfruns
Niedzwiedz sorry for cheating, Bathurst 1987
My opinion on this article is that the big car companies always have their own way in motorsport.
Graeme Bavister
Why Holden should import Camaro
Yes, please bring the Camaro down under. It will sell! $100K+ Commodores sell quite easily, as do the $140K imported+converted Camaros (though I've never seen one).
I drove one in Canada in August, and it was easily the best and most exciting thing I've been in. It will definitely sell well here! Do it!!!
David
Porsche 911 Speedster zooms in
Another parts bin special badged as a 'limited edition' sold at a ridiculous premium. Since when was a speedster loaded with options anyway? The original was a stripped out, lightweight purposeful machine. This is very disappointing.
Gene
HSV celebrates 20 years of thunder
Just like to inform you of a possible misprint. It says the power output is 185kw/400Nm, I think it must be 285kW, as 185 from a 5.7-litre V8 doesn't sound correct.
Warren
Ken Gratton says: The only mentions of those figures appearing in the article were in relation to the old cast-iron V8, prior to the introduction of VT Series II.
Wildcat offroader bares its talons
When can we buy one in Australia? Where can we buy one in Australia?
Will
Volkswagen's Twincharged engine trouble
My Golf broke down on the weekend due to the computer problem mentioned in your article. As a result my engine needs to be rebuilt. I never received this recall letter. Do you know when this letter was sent out? I had my car in for a service about six months ago and the software was not updated. Not sure what I should do?? Do you think my car will lose value because of this? It is only eight months old. Any comments would be appreciated.
Kind regards,
Alex Giebeler
Ken Gratton says: Alex, it's unlikely to affect your car's resale value. We strongly suggest you speak to the dealer's service personnel. If the car is only eight months old, any work done will be covered under warranty and the recall program.
Subaru tweaks '09 WRX hatch
Is this car legal for P-plated drivers?!?!?
Petar
Ken Gratton says: Hardly.
2011 Subaru Impreza WRX and WRX STI
OH NO! Subaru what happened to adding a DSG to the STi? Why the old auto format with a detuned boxer engine? Clearly you are not listening and leaving makers like VW/Audi, Mitsubishi to take your sales with great engine gearbox combinations and superior interiors. Sure you pay more but you get what you pay for.
Even Porsche has grown up to DSG (PDK) and the GTR gets it! You've lost me....
Peter
Civvy Benz G-Wagen on Australian radar
I understood that the Defender was NOT a contender because Land Rover is discontinuing it and could not guarantee the five-year forward requirements...
Ludwig
Ken Gratton says: That sounds entirely logical to us, given the unclear future of the Defender.
Mazda motorsport: The cars
A well written article, albeit with a couple of corrections required due to information passed on from Alan Horsley.
All RX-7SP development, mechanical works & engine work was carried out by the development mechanic during the 1990's. Daniel Deckers basically built and developed the race cars from scratch with Alan Horsley providing budget support. It was Daniel Deckers that masterminded the 4x 12-hour wins each time being the "king pin" to the entire program.
Regarding the RX-7SPII. This car was sold by Mazda to a private collector in 1999 in a semi SPII state (some parts removed). The collector returned the RX-7SPII to the Mazda racing team. Purchased all the required SPII parts, had them fitted and has maintained the car in RX-7SPII trim ever since.
The RX-7SPII owner is Sydney based and intends to keep the car for some time yet.
Regarding the opening paragraph on the Mazda Cosmo sports 110S.
Reference to the Mazda being the (actual) first production car with a rotary engine is wrong.
NSU manufactured and sold the "Spider" from 1963-1967 with a single-rotor engine based on the two-rotor engine to be fitted into the Ro80 sedan.
Also, the Mazda is officially a rare "export version" Mazda 110S. Not the Japanese domestic "Cosmo sports"
Regards
David Morris
Family assortment SUV
The ride comfort issue can be fixed. Check tyres and keep to 34psi cold as per Fords specs. At 36-37, ride turns hard. The 18" tyres are super-sensitive to pressure increase.
The bounce is the rear shocks -- try a set of Koni Reds to fix this.
Paul Martin
A brief history of Bill Patterson: businessman and race driver
My opinion on this article is: very good. This history is unknown to the norm. I have an XW, one of six taken from the assembly line by Patterson. I know of only one other, on blocks. A good friend of mine worked as a mechanic for him back then. They were fitted with Mexican block 302 Windsors, hotted to the max. Can you find out anything on these? Thanks.
Regards,
Roger Hansen...
The name of the trucks hauling the race cars is Western Star not Westar
Tony Price
ANCAP starry-eyed over Hyundai ads
Why don't you name the models that are really five-star safety rated in this article? You say "In most advertisements, only two of the five or six cars listed were awarded five stars for safety." But then don't name the two models???
Jordan
Family Assortment
Blind Freddy has known for 50 years that the medium station wagon is the only sensible choice for family motoring. Small cars are fine for couples or singles, but high-rise SUVs with their top-heavy propensity for rollover? No thanks.
Bill W
Deni ute muster to name famous landmark
What a load of !@#$%^, as if u need to name a car, mate!!!
Ross
Front-drive Outlander heads 2011 range
When is Mitsubishi going to include a diesel engine option on the Outlander ?
Tony
Nissan Navara ST-X
Can't wait to get mine!!
Have just won the Nissan Navara Australia's Most Powerful Tradie competition.
Yay!
Rob Barton
Not sure about what a green car's like to drive? Here, have a go
The Australian-made all-electric Blade Electron was recently added to the list of LEVs available for test drives at Green Zone Drive.
Doug Falconer
VW plans to double Australian sales by 2018
They want to sell more here?
I ordered a diesel Passat with everything about two months ago, then two weeks later the dealer called to say I couldn't get one until March, because VW don't allocate any vehicles to Australia during the Euro winter months.
I am expecting a Mondeo any time now.
Craig
Ford FG Falcon G6E Turbo
That seems like a fair evaluation of the car.
In the last paragraph the author says "We're at a loss to explain why the Falcon range is not selling quite as well as expected"
Maybe it's the faulty door locking systems Ford engineers seem so fond of lately -- you just can't lock a Ford and trust that it will stay locked or even lock to begin with (these problems seem to have an uncanny way of presenting just after the warranty expires and can be quite costly). I've been caught out with faulty locks on BA and BF Falcons and couldn't commit myself to another car that I can't walk away from and feel confident that it will still be locked when I return.
James Knowles
Paris Show: VW Scirocco saga continues
You guys should start another on-line petition to get the Scirocco here, like you did with Camaro. I'd never buy a GTI but Scirocco would be at or near the top of my shopping list to replace my Brera in a year or so.
warrenBONES
Paris Show: Sixth element Lambo Paris star
I'll eat my hat if it ends up weighing less than 1000kg
Ryan
Renault's future unveiled
Wow!! I love it!! Super Sexy Styling , one of the nicest designs I have ever seen!!
Ali
Paris Show: Porsche Speedster almost sold out
Uh sorry, a few mistakes. There was a Speedster in the G series (the shape before the 964) which ended production in 1989 and that was the 3.2L that you nominated as the engine in the 964.
The 964 and the 993 had the 3.6L. Hope this clarifies things.
John
Ken Gratton says: Thanks John.
Paris Show: VW won't damage Porsche says new boss
Still worried, just look at VW's other brands. Audi is a disgrace. VW cars should aim at the likes of Toyota with the sportier Audi running rear and AWD platforms aimed at BMW etc. How a front -drive VW remodelled or rebadged as an Audi could possibly look like a sporty alternative is beyond me. I couldn't even imagine Mercedes building a FWD S-Class. Above all else, let's hope VW's infamously poor reliability and customer satisfaction ratings don't filter 'up' to Porsche.
James Fahey
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...