Kia will launch four versions of its double-cab Tasman ute in New Zealand later this year, the entry-level model priced at $52,690 and the range-topper at $79,690. The four will be followed later by a full range of Tasman variants, including two-door and four-door cab and chassis options. “There will be a Tasman model to suit almost all requirements,” said Kia NZ managing … [Read more...] about Kia eyes further growth with $52,690 4WD ute
Volkswagen's Piech
Early morning glory on ice, Audi style
The people who know these things reckon the best time to experience the demands of test driving a car on ice is in the ‘golden hour’ at dawn – before and after the sun rises. Audi NZ is setting up such an experience on the slippery surfaces of the Southern Hemisphere Proving Ground, an automotive winter wonderland near Queenstown. The so-called Night Drive is … [Read more...] about Early morning glory on ice, Audi style
Volkswagen tackles Chinese with new ‘people’s car’
It’s being called Volkswagen’s new affordable ‘people’s car’. But unlike the original ‘Beetle’, it’s a battery-electric model aimed at putting the mockers on China’s plans to flood Europe with low-cost, Beijing-backed rivals. The German carmaker has teased an image of the EV, a likely hatchback set for production in 2027 and priced at 20,000 euros, or $NZ36,000. A … [Read more...] about Volkswagen tackles Chinese with new ‘people’s car’
‘I bought this car before Elon lost his mind’
Tesla owners have become disillusioned with Elon Musk’s outspoken incursions into global politics, says the head of rival electric carmaker (EV) Polestar. An example of the discontent, said Michael Lohscheller, is the increasing appearance on Teslas of bumper stickers such as: “I bought this car before Elon lost his mind.” Or “I bought this car before Elon went crazy.” In … [Read more...] about ‘I bought this car before Elon lost his mind’
2024: Year of petrol-electric hybrids and Toyota’s 1:6:90 rule
It could be said that 2024 was the year of the petrol-electric hybrid (HEV) car, even though it has been around in one form or another for 28 years. Toyota pioneered it. Honda followed soon after. Others came much later. Each HEV saves on CO2 exhaust emissions. HEVs totalled a never-before 34,736 registrations in New Zealand last year, or 27.0% of the overall … [Read more...] about 2024: Year of petrol-electric hybrids and Toyota’s 1:6:90 rule