Value Awa rds

We’ve crunched all the data so you don't have to. Here’s our definitive guide to Australia’s best-value cars2014

wheelsmag.com.au 103 HEN you’re in the market for a slick new motor, the process of comparing, tyre-kicking and dreaming is seemingly filled with infinite possibility. But actually laying your cash down at the dealership can snap you from a daydream into a grim reality of lacklustre resale values, wildly expensive insurance premiums, spiralling repayments and untold thirst for premium fuel. What if someone could expose the hidden costs, crunch the numbers, present the data, and draw conclusions about how to best spend your hard- earned on a brand new car? Enter Wheels’ annual Gold Star Value Awards. We take the cream of the crop in a number of vehicle classes – just about all of them, in fact – and break each car down into key cost components such as annual fuel cost, insurance premiums and depreciation, then feed the data into a clever set of formulae. More than 200 cars are tipped into the hopper, but just one winner in each of 20 classes is earns the coveted Wheels Gold Star Award for value. JAMES WHITBOURN

104 wheelsmag.com.au Gold Star Value Awards

Class ceiling Fuel Purchase price Service Warranty Gold Star Value Awards Annual fuel cost explainedMost new-car buyers Widespread fixed-price There’s potentially money eligibility is capped calculated based on set out with a budget in or capped-price servicing to be saved in having at $150K. The reason? ADR combined-cycle mind, so Gold Star Value schemes should make a longer warranty. If Even the best $150K car consumption figures – not Awards is divided into it possible to compare nothing else, a five-year will lose almost $50K to real-world, but broadly price brackets. The real servicing costs. Except warranty gives greater depreciation in the first comparable. Annual cost of owning the car there are still some brands peace of mind compared three years – far more distance travelled is taken is depreciation, which or individual models with a three-year than you’d spend on fuel, as the Australian Bureau is where purchase cost without such schemes. As warranty. However, it’s insurance and other of Statistics average of comes into our value a result, service intervals impossible to put a hard running costs. 14,000km. equation. are scored. A 12-month cost on what an extra interval (or longer) will warranty is worth – it Depreciation Insurance Real cost usually result in less only translates into cash The biggest cost of Comprehensive insurance It’s relatively easy to put expense (and certainly if and when something ownership for most new quotes provided by AAMI a representative number be more convenient) goes bang and it’s fixed cars. Of more than 200 for a 35-year-old male on the three-year cost compared with six-month free of charge. Warranty cars number-crunched, living in Chatswood, of depreciation, fuel and or nine-month intervals, also accounts for 10 three-year retained value NSW, Rating 1 for life, no insurance, so the total so takes maximum points. points out of 100. figures – as supplied by finance and private use. of these running costs Cars with variable or data authority Redbook – equate to 80 percent of a ‘condition-based’ service range from less than car’s score. intervals are also awarded 40 percent to more than the maximum 10 points 70 percent of the MSRP. for this discipline.

wheelsmag.com.au 105 Value Gold StarAwa rds 2014 Car finance advice FEW new cars are bought outright; here, and the loan term. Balloon it’s finance rather than cash that’s king. Secured loans – the car can be payments A car loan is a type of personal loan repossessed if you fail to meet repayments A BALLOON payment specifically for the purchase of a car, with – are cheaper than unsecured loans, but means reduced a loan term that can range from 12 months comprehensive insurance is usually a monthly repayments, to five years. A typical balloon payment is must; it’s generally a good idea anyway. but with a lump sum 30 percent – the amount left owing at the Various factors come into play when left owing at the end end of the finance period. working out how much you’ll pay, but it's of the loan period. At Interest rates can be fixed or variable. your credit rating, or financial risk profile, this point the options The former, fixed for the term of the loan, that largely determines the interest rate. are to keep the means set repayments, but a termination Using a mortgage redraw facility or vehicle and refinance fee may be charged for early payout. a low-interest credit card can be good this amount, or sell it As well as comparing interest rates, make alternatives, but come with unique pros and pay the balloon sure you compare loan establishment and cons. out of the proceeds. fees and service fees; some institutions If you plan to do the don’t charge them, while others charge as things to latter, it’s wise to much as five percent. Fees can eat up any remember ensure your balloon perceived saving in interest rate, so it pays 3  Compare fees and interest rates to get amount will be less to be thorough when doing your research. the full picture  than or equal to the One way to save a buck is to make  Secured car loans are less costly than predicted resale value repayments fortnightly rather than unsecured loans  of the vehicle at the monthly – it changes the way interest is  Making repayments fortnightly rather end of the loan. accrued and can reduce both total outlay  than monthly will save money

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Holden Barina Spark CD ND 2 THE Barina Spark’s silver reflects consistency rather than any one exceptional result. There’s value packed in the little Lion’s fuel efficiency, resale, insurance premium and nine-month service interval.

Fiat 500 Pop RD 3 ITS 5.1L/100km official fuel consumption figure is the high point because Fiat’s charming Cinquecento remake is a bit pricier than its truly bare-bones ST Mitsubishi Mirage ES hatch rivals, with a three-year warranty 1 EACH of the base-model Mirage’s vital almost that much to fuel for one year. Who compared with a class-best of five. figures is among the best in class, would want to buy second-hand when the and the 2014 Gold Star field. The little Mirage costs only $12,990 new? Well, the Mitsubishi can be considered not only the stout 65 percent Redbook retained value best buy of the cheapies, but of every car figure suggests that there is a market for an put through the GSVA wringer. $8400 three-year-old Mirage. With its 4.6L/100km official fuel Insurance is cheap, at $882, and 12-month consumption, it costs just $2626 to fuel for service intervals and a five-year warranty if three years. There are cars that would cost Mitsubishi services the car all help.

Combined AAMI Service Sub-Light Purchase cycle fuel Fuel RON Three-year Redbook Three-year insurance interval Warranty Price (L/100km) (min. rec.) fuel cost resale (%) depreciation premium (months) (years) Mitsubishi Mirage ES hatch $12,990 4.6 91 $2626 65 $4546 $881.62 12 5 Holden Barina Spark CD $12,490 5.2 91 $2968 71 $3622 $878.14 9 3 Fiat 500 Pop MT $16,000 5.1 95 $3099 62 $6080 $951.78 12 3 Notable classmates: Smart ForTwo Coupe mhd, Nissan Micra / Number of cars crunched: 5 106 wheelsmag.com.au Lightunder $17K

ST Honda Jazz VTi Mazda 2 Neo Sport hatch 1 A $14,990 pricetag is low in this company, and is ND the high note on which the well-equipped entry-level 2 WITH first-drive reports of the Jazz signals the start of its successful Gold Star Value new 2 filtering out of Japan, the campaign. However, it’s not purchase price itself, but the third-gen model has only weeks of life product of a cheap sticker and a spectacular 79 percent left – run-out deals make it a great Redbook three-year retained value that works for would- time to buy this little doer. Factor be Jazz buyers. The resale is among the best of any car in solid resale and a 12-month considered for 2014. It means the little hatch only sheds service interval, and the Mazda about $1000 over each of the first three years, bagging mite’s silver medal is deserved. the Honda big points. The $945 annual insurance figure is as good as most, while official fuel economy from the CVT-equipped, 91 Renault Clio Authentique TCe 90 RD octane-sipping 1.5-litre four is decent, if not 3 FOURTH-GEN French supermini marks class-leadingly great. The Japanese brand’s three-year the return of mainstream models to the warranty is the norm, but bettered by some here, and Australian market and the dawn of Clio’s the six-monthly service requirement is less convenient value story in Oz, with brilliant – and may mean more money spent in the workshop – 4.5L/100km combined-cycle compared with cars that only call for an annual check-up. economy from its 898cc turbo The Jazz may have an image problem alongside stylish triple, a long 12-month rivals like the Clio, while the fussy styling of the new service interval and a third-gen model won’t be for everyone. But in terms of generous five-year warranty. saving bucks, it can’t be beat.

Combined AAMI Service Light under $17K Purchase cycle fuel Fuel RON Three-year Redbook Three-year insurance interval Warranty Price (L/100km) (min. rec.) fuel cost resale (%) depreciation premium (months) (years) Honda Jazz VTi MT $14,990 6.2 91 $3539 79 $3148 $945.23 6 3 Mazda Mazda 2 Neo Sport hatch $15,790 6.4 91 $3653 75 $3948 $923.98 12 3 Renault Clio Authentique TCe 90 $16,790 4.5 95 $2735 67 $5541 $933.53 12 5 Notable classmates: Suzuki Swift GL, Hyundai i20 3-dr Active / Number of cars crunched: 13 wheelsmag.com.au 107

Lightunder $25K

ST Renault Clio Expression TCe 90 1 LET’S first tackle the elephant in the room: Why is it that, a price bracket up, the Clio and Mazda 2 change order, and Peugeot 208 Active ND where has the Jazz gone? There’s nothing sinister happening; 2 THE three-pot Peugeot it’s just that the battle raging in this class is a particularly goes close to Clio’s close one, and subtle differences in price, resale and insurance economy, but without the turbo torque. Betters premium shake up the order. Renault’s Clio takes the gong, its rival’s resale, at 70 percent, and matches it while the Jazz is relegated to fourth. for cheap insurance and a 12-month service interval, The take-home message is that they’re all excellent buys. but falls two years short of Renault’s five-year warranty, But the Gallic gold medallist tops them – by a slender 1.4-point which is certainly a consideration on French cars. margin – with a terrific 4.5L/100km official combined cycle fuel economy figure (albeit on 95-octane premium fuel) and a characterful, throbby triple-cylinder note. The Renault’s Mazda 2 Maxx Sport hatch RD 66 percent three-year Redbook resale is reasonable, while the 3 WITH fuel economy to rival the pair of Frenchies annual insurance bill is among the cheapest here at $933. above it, the Mazda 2 coodabeen a contender. In fact, The brand’s adoption of an across-the-range five-year a small but meaningful drop in fuel use would warranty counts for plenty. Without it, the Renault would slip to see it take out the category, and the second. Meanwhile, the Clio’s 12-month service interval offers next-gen 2, due in December, hassle-free motoring and cash-saving potential. Consider the will bring that efficiency driver appeal on offer for less than $18K (plus on-roads) and improvement. Renault’s baby is the archetypal Gold Star car.

Combined AAMI Service Light under $25K Purchase cycle fuel Fuel RON Three-year Redbook Three-year insurance interval Warranty Price (L/100km) (min. rec.) fuel cost resale (%) depreciation premium (months) (years) Renault Clio Expression TCe 90 $18,290 4.5 95 $2739 66 $6219 $933.53 12 5 Peugeot 208 Active 1.2 $18,490 4.7 95 $2856 70 $5547 $951.86 12 3 Mazda Mazda 2 Maxx Sport hatch $17,440 6.4 91 $3653 72 $4883 $951.59 12 3 Notable classmates: Hyundai i20 5-dr Elite, Honda City VTi / Number of cars crunched: 13 108 wheelsmag.com.au

Value Gold StarAwa rds 2014 under $25K

ST Mazda 3 Neo Small1 WHY the 3 sedan? It’s better looking. Okay, that's not particularly pragmatic; both the hatch and its booted brother offer the blend of cash-saving qualities that see the Mazda 3 dust off a 15-strong sub-$25K small car field. Happily, the third-gen 3 adds economy to its list of high points. However, it’s solid showings across the board that help the Mazda to a well-deserved gong. The 3 is happy on a low-octane fuel (91), strong on resale (77 percent), with an annual insurance premium on the cheap side at $934. And it conveniently only needs a F ixed-cost 12-monthly appointment with the spannerman. The Mazda’s only downfall is its three-year unlimited-kilometre warranty – not servicing exactly stingy, but well short of industry-best. MARKET leader Toyota was the first with a capped-price service scheme in 2008, and many brands have followed. Dealerships make most of their money on parts and servicing (and finance and insurance) rather than selling the car. Capped schemes were developed to bring car buyers back for a routine service. Mitsubishi and Nissan offered capped-price schemes in 2010, then Ford and FPV in 2011, and Holden, HSV, Hyundai and in 2012. Other brands have offered capped-price deals on certain models and at different times. A capped price doesn’t necessarily equal cheap. Some brands shorten service intervals or stop the scheme short of a major service, and prices from one brand to the next can vary wildly. Some are manufacturer subsidised – dealer service departments gain a rebate on each service – while others represent the true cost. Capped-price periods vary from brand to brand. Three years is common, but Ford offers a seven-year deal and Mazda offers its scheme for the life of the car. Subaru and Ford have backdated their capped-price schemes to apply to 2006 and 2007 models respectively. things to remember 3  Capped-price doesn’t always mean  cheap-price service  Be wary of shorter service intervals  or schemes that stop short of major-service time Kia Cerato S sedan  Three years is a common RD  capped-price period, but some 3 A FIVE-YEAR warranty sees to it that makers offer schemes for more than Kia – and Korea – is always in the twice as long. hunt for a Gold Star gong. No prizes for aesthetics, but if there were, the Peter Holden Cruze Equipe Schreyer-styled Rio would fare well. Six-month service cost ND TOYOTA Australia not only pioneered 2 TWO best-sellers figuring at capped-price servicing, but is also among the pointy end here speaks the cheapest. A Corolla, for example, loudly about how switched-on costs just $130 per service for the first Aussie buyers are. Cruze comes three years or 60,000km. second, with strong resale and class-cheapest insurance.

Combined AAMI Service Small under $25K Purchase cycle fuel Fuel RON Three-year Redbook Three-year insurance interval Warranty Price (L/100km) (min. rec.) fuel cost resale (%) depreciation premium (months) (years) Mazda Mazda 3 Neo sedan $20,490 5.8 91 $3310 77 $4712 $933.96 12 3 Holden Cruze Equipe 1.8 $19,890 7 91 $3995 72 $5569 $872.71 9 3 Kia Cerato S sedan manual $19,990 6.6 91 $3767 64 $7196 $950.13 12 5 Notable classmates: Hyundai i30 CRDi Active, Golf 90 TSI / Number of cars crunched: 15 wheelsmag.com.au 109 Value Gold StarAwa rds 2014 under $35K

ST Mazda 3 Touring 1 MAZDA’S recent focus on shaving fuel use via bracket. The 3’s insurance premium is low at $982, its SkyActiv program is the reason its cars now although it’s worth noting that there’s not much feature at the pointy end rather than fighting it out variation among small cars. mid-pack as they often did previously. A 12-month service interval is also a big plus. And, SmallThe Mazda 3 has always possessed a blend of while the brand’s three-year warranty isn’t the best qualities that make the model an excellent value out there, we’d be worry-free about the reliability proposition, a fact that explains the more than 3000 inherent in anything with a Mazda badge. new buyers it attracts each month. These strengths Then there’s the economy. The outgoing model drank carry into the third-gen model in the form of a stout 7.9L/100km on the combined cycle; the new one is 77 percent three-year retained value, which translates some 27 percent thriftier, at 5.8L/100km (and still on into $5900 lost over the first three years – less than bottom-shelf 91 octane). With this previous missing any other car considered in this class and price link addressed, the Mazda 3 is an all-round Star.

Hyundai i30 CRDi Active ND Renault Megane Authentique 2 OUR summation in Showroom is, of RD course, spot-on: “Entry-level diesel remains 3 dCi 110 hatch excellent value.” The i30 does it by putting in SINCE Renault re-platformed its base Megane, consistently solid performances across the driver appeal and ride quality near to the old- disciplines, offering excellent economy school French variety have been part of the deal. and reasonable resale, before bringing In base turbo-diesel form, so is excellent it home with a 12-month service economy. Long warranty and service interval and five-year warranty. intervals are great; resale and reliability reputation less so.

Combined AAMI Service Small under $35K Purchase cycle fuel Fuel RON Three-year Redbook Three-year insurance interval Warranty Price (L/100km) (min. rec.) fuel cost resale (%) depreciation premium (months) (years) Mazda 3 Touring hatch or sedan manual $25,490 5.8 91 $3311 77 $5863 $982.01 12 3 Hyundai i30 1.6L Active CRDi auto $25,840 5.6 91 $3196 64 $9302 $1050.67 12 5 Renault Megane Hatch Authentique dCi 110 $25,990 4.5 d $2720 58 $10,916 $933.53 12 5 Notable classmates: Kia Cerato Si sedan, Toyota Corolla Levin ZR hatch / Number of cars crunched: 8 110 wheelsmag.com.au Insurance tips WHILE the major factors on which Additional savings can be made by bundling Up the excess comprehensive car insurance premiums are car and home insurance, and by paying CHOOSING to increase set – your age, gender and where you live – premiums annually rather than monthly. It your excess can bring there are still ways to get a better deal. can also be more cost-effective not adding premiums down. If It pays to obtain quotes on the models you’re young family members to your policy, your aim is to insure considering before you settle on a car. It’s also depending on the size of the excess for non- against a total loss worth getting a range of quotes to see which listed drivers. Extras such as car hire while of a valuable asset – policy, and premium, fits best. your car is in for repairs can be worthwhile, which could occur if Comparing prices is straightforward, but but also add expense; consider how much you the car is written-off not all policies are created equal. Companies really need them. in an at-fault accident, that ask more questions about you and your or stolen – consider car usage can be cheaper. For example, if your things to increasing your car is securely parked at work, rather than left 3remember excess. It will reduce at the train station, or you cover fewer than  Get quotes before rather than after you your premium and average kilometres, it could put you into a  settle on a car continue to cover you lower risk category and reduce your premium.  Strike a balance between excess amount for the car’s value. A clean driving record is a no-brainer, but  and policy cost The downside is you going further by doing an advanced driver  Pay your premium annually rather than by will need to stump training course can help cut costs with some  the month up repair costs after companies, too. minor at-fault bingles.

ND Mini Cooper Compact 2 THIRD-GEN Cooper is no longer quite so mini, but still big on value. under $50K Miserly 4.7L/100km fuel figure counts for plenty,

ST Citroen DS3 D Sport while consistent showings 1PremiumWHETHER it’s D Style or D Sport, Citroen’s The $30K D Sport is pricier than the Style, elsewhere help it to the forward-looking DS3 leads the premium but more economical at 6.7L/100km (on silver medal. compact class for value. Unlike many in the 95 RON fuel). Resale is reasonable for the segment (see Mini Cooper), it defies retro to class, at 59 percent, while annual insurance deliver a new take on Euro-cool hatch. But is at the cheaper end of the scale at $1053. the true beauty of the DS3, as our Gold Star Its 12-month service interval is as good as it Value analysis reveals, is that it’s both the gets, and the six-year warranty sets it apart adventurous and the sensible choice. in this class.

Volvo 3RD V40 D2 Kinetic TURBO-DIESEL economy and solid resale help V40’s bid, while its 4.2L/100km turbo-diesel economy and 12-month service interval drive the Volvo’s value equation home in convincing fashion.

Combined AAMI Service Premium Compact under $50K Purchase cycle fuel Fuel RON Three-year Redbook Three-year insurance interval Warranty Price (L/100km) (min. rec.) fuel cost resale (%) depreciation premium (months) (years) Citroen DS3 D Sport $29,990 6.7 95 $4072 59 $12,295 $1053.19 12 6 Mini Cooper $26,650 4.7 98 $3018 61 $10,393 $1147.34 12 3 Volvo V40 D2 Kinetic $36,990 4.2 D $2538 66 $12,576 $1159.27 12 3 Notable classmates: Lexus CT200h, Mercedes-Benz A180 / Number of cars crunched: 9 wheelsmag.com.au 111

Medium Premium$45K-60K

Make the most of your resale MONEY lost to depreciation is one of the biggest costs of new-car ownership, usually amounting to 30 to 50 percent of the car's price in the first three years. However, how you look after your car can have a large bearing on how much it’s worth when it comes time to sell. While pricing authority Redbook’s three- year retained-value forecasts are great for comparing cars, it’s possible to do better – or worse – than the average figure. The number of kilometres you cover ST Citroen DS5 D Sport each year is a major contributing factor, 1 IT’S pleasing to see a Citroen atop the medium can mean anything from but others such as condition and service podium, but how did it get there? A eccentric to sporty to sedan. The common history also play a big part. Ensuring change of importer has seen the brand’s denominator is the bottom line. servicing is done on time goes a long way local pricing go from gouge-the-bastards As well as being newly affordable, the to giving would-be buyers peace of mind. to give-’em-a-good-deal. DS5 brings a trio of after-sales support Mid and high-spec cars are more The DS5 marks a welcome return of bonuses: six years of warranty; desirable on the used market, but the quirkiness that characterised many capped-price servicing; and, roadside obviously come at a premium over base of the French maker’s early offerings. assistance. Then there’s the Citroen’s models. Getting a good deal in the first The Citroen finished ahead of Mercedes- service interval; it only needs to see the place helps because official retained Benz’s C180 coupe and Lexus’s IS300h mechanic once a year. How’s that for value figures are a percentage of the as- in third, an eclectic mix that proves peace of mind? new price. Sell it yourself, too; a sharp sales blurb and great photos can go a long way to getting decent bucks back.

Mercedes-Benz C180 things to ND remember 2 Avantgarde Coupe 3  Service your car by the book PERHAPS not so avant-garde now that   Drive a hard bargain when you buy it’s soon to be superseded, but the sweet   Don’t trade in. Sell it yourself with C180 Coupe’s value equation still adds up.  quality photos and persuasive text Factor in a run-out deal and now could be the best time to buy. Used cars CLASSIC cars can be great buys, because they’re often free of depreciation. New Lexus IS300h RD cars are a money pit when you consider 3 THE Lexus hybrid has unexpected the value they shed straight out of the appeal, but the value comes as no dealership, and in the initial years. surprise given Lexus’s long service However, classic (or just plain old) cars interval and four-year warranty, and have done their depreciation at someone the IS300h’s stout resale and miserly else’s expense. Buy a classic at the right fuel use. time and you may even make money.

Combined AAMI Service Premium Medium $45K-60K Purchase cycle fuel Fuel RON Three-year Redbook Three-year insurance interval Warranty Price (L/100km) (min. rec.) fuel cost resale (%) depreciation premium (months) (years) Citroen DS5 D Sport $48,990 7.3 95 $4437 56 $21,555 $1217.93 12 6 Mercedes-Benz C180 Avantgarde Coupe $59,900 6.3 95 $3829 69 $18,569 $1313.90 12 3 Lexus IS300h $59,500 4.9 95 $2978 64 $21,420 $1384.81 12 4 Notable classmates: Infiniti Q50 2.2 GT, Volvo S60 D4 Kinetic / Number of cars crunched: 6 112 wheelsmag.com.au

Value Gold StarAwa rds 2014 Mediumunder $45K

ST Skoda Octavia 1 Ambition 103 TSI THE benefit of hindsight has allowed Redbook to hone Skoda's three-year retained value ratings from the highs of when the brand returned to Oz, to more believable Volkswagen Jetta numbers. Back then, Skodas were a Gold Star sure-thing. RD 118TSI Happily for the Czech brand, the base, 1.4-litre 3 THE base Jetta is not as turbo-petrol Octavia remains in the frame for well equipped as an Octavia, budget-conscious buyers. The mid-sizer’s affordable Si and the mid-size VW’s $21,690 purchase price and decent 60 percent resale still ND IF ITS dynamics were vital stats tend to support make it among the best cars considered in class in terms 2 as sharp as its looks, this value judgement. Still, of depreciation, while a frugal 5.7L/100km economy rating Kia’s Optima would be having beaten 10 of 13 cars makes it equally competitive in the fuel-cost discipline. a mid-size revelation. considered in its class, it Importantly, the efficiency doesn’t come at the cost of Thankfully, the value remains a ripper buy. driver appeal. The boosted Volkswagen Group four is sweet equation is up there with and flexible, though it does insist that the tank is filled with its styling. Kia’s strong pricier premium 95 RON. warranty and long service In the Ambition, you miss out on the better-sorted ride interval help it secure and sharper dynamics found up-spec in the IRS-equipped silver, as does solid resale. Elegance and RS, but they are priced $10K-15K more. So in terms of the numbers – and the sheer amount of car you get for the money in terms of cabin and cargo space – the entry-level Octavia is a winner.

Combined AAMI Service Medium under $45K Purchase cycle fuel Fuel RON Three-year Redbook Three-year insurance interval Warranty Price (L/100km) (min. rec.) fuel cost resale (%) depreciation premium (months) (years) Skoda Octavia Ambition 103 TSI $21,690 5.7 95 $3464 60 $8676 $1135.86 12 3 Kia Optima Si $31,240 7.9 91 $4509 67 $10,309 $1047.00 12 5 Volkswagen Jetta 118 TSI $24,990 6.5 95 $3950 57 $10,746 $1015.37 12 3 Notable classmates: Hyundai i40 CRDi Active, Mazda 6 Sport / Number of cars crunched: 13 wheelsmag.com.au 113 Value Gold StarAwa rds 2014 Large

Premium under $45K

ST Holden Commodore Evoke 1 AS AN experiment, we threw both the petrol and Skoda Superb 118 TSI Large ND LPG versions of the entry-level Commodore into our 2 SUPERB? Last year, only 436 Gold Star Value formula, and the result is surprising. Aussie buyers thought so. But There’s just 0.1 of a percentage point between the when it comes to real estate for barbie-gas V6 in first and the old-fashioned petrol in the money, the big Skoda should second. So, for great value in the class, it’s clear that be on more buyers' radar. It rivals you should get a Commodore. However, in terms of a long- Holden for Chrysler 300 which fuel type to choose, there’s little in it. space, yet under the bonnet it’s RD Taking all other costs as constant, and with the LPG decidedly more Golf-sized. Resale 3 Limited 3.6 rebate now closed, it comes down to the extra $2500 is weak, though, so it’s an even IT’S rare that buying outlay for the LPG model, which means it’s hit harder better buy used. outside the square is also the by depreciation, versus the cost you’ll save on fuel (an smart thing to do financially. estimated $1187 over three years). In our view, that In this case, treating yourself makes the petrol a no-brainer. It’s cheaper to buy and to some Yank-tank character can work out about even in the long run. is as good for your mobster Then there’s the fact that, like any LPG engine, the image as it is for your bank gas Commodore drinks the admittedly cheaper fuel at balance due to its strong a prodigious rate. The resultant range limitations come 63 percent three-year resale. with no significant cost saving, so buy the petrol one and avoid queueing with taxis at the servo.

Combined AAMI Service Large under $45K Purchase cycle fuel Fuel RON Three-year Redbook Three-year insurance interval Warranty Price (L/100km) (min. rec.) fuel cost resale (%) depreciation premium (months) (years) Holden Commodore Evoke LPG $37,990 11.5 LPG $3550 55 $17,096 $1033.69 9 3 Holden Commodore Evoke $35,490 8.3 91 $4737 55 $15,971 $1018.55 9 3 Skoda Superb 118 TSI $38,990 7.3 98 $4688 44 $21,639 $1065.78 12 3 Chrysler 300 Limited 3.6 $43,000 9.4 91 $5365 63 $15,910 $1165.97 6 3 Notable classmate: Falcon Ecoboost / Number of cars crunched: 5 114 wheelsmag.com.au Ford G6E Ecoboost ND 2 THE four-pot Falcon certainly under $60K doesn’t do it on the strength of its three-year resale – 39 percent, ouch! – leaving the Blue Oval to rely on cheap insurance and a 12-month Large service interval.

Chrysler 300 Limited RD 3 BUMPED to the bronze by a gnat’s knacker. Resale and Holden Caprice insurance are the big Yank’s ST 1 THE Big Three vying for podium spots than many of the great Bathurst battles. key wins; six-monthly service sounds like Mount Panorama in the There was just 0.04 of a percent between requirement and a 1970s, but also describes our sub-$60K first and second, and 0.05 from second middle-of-the-road large sedan class. Not only do Holden, to third! That’s incredible given each car diesel bill its Chrysler and Ford duke it out, but so do has a different set of strengths. For the defeats. the three mainstream fuel types: LPG, V6 Holden, the biggie was the low cost of diesel and petrol. The clear winner here is LPG, but a fair 55 percent resale and the Lion and LPG, but the finish was closer nine-month service interval also helped. Large

Lexus GS300h ST 1 TRADITIONAL Lexus qualities such The four-cylinder hybrid GS, at Mercedes-Benz as a 12-month service interval and a 5.2L/100km on the combined cycle, brings ND E220 CDI Premiumfour-year warranty team with newfound diesel-rivalling fuel efficiency and the 2 polish and appeal in the Japanese brand’s brand’s hard-won reputation for reliability OUTDONE by the Lexus on fourth-gen GS series. The luxo sedan is reflected in a 56 percent three-year some counts, but the Mercedes’ brings a beautifully crafted interior, greatly retained value. Meanwhile, the fact the three-year resale – top-of-the-class improved (though still not fantastic) GS300h was the priciest to insure, at $1582, at 61 percent – counts for plenty if chassis dynamics and, as our calculations failed to unravel its ultimately successful you turn your car over often. reveal, a class-leading value equation. tilt at Gold Star glory.

BMW 520i RD 3 BMW’s entry-level large sedan performed well everywhere for a close-run third. Condition-based servicing a best-case scenario because it means the minimum number of trips to the mechanic.

Combined AAMI Service Large under $60K Purchase cycle fuel Fuel RON Three-year Redbook Three-year insurance interval Warranty Price (L/100km) (min. rec.) fuel cost resale (%) depreciation premium (months) (years) Holden Caprice $54,990 12.1 LPG $3735 55 $24,745 $1294.82 9 3 Ford Falcon G6E Ecoboost $46,735 8.5 91 $4852 39 $28,508 $1069.45 12 3 Chrysler 300 Limited CRD $48,000 7.1 D $4291 56 $21,120 $1261.34 6 3 Notable: Skoda Superb Elegance 191 FSI, Toyota Aurion Sportivo ZR6 | Number of cars crunched: 5 Premium Large Lexus GS300h $78,163 5.2 95 $3160 56 $34,392 $1582.21 12 4 Mercedes-Benz E220 CDI $82,900 4.9 D $2961 61 $32,331 $1370.68 12 3 BMW 520i $80,400 6.2 98 $3982 58 $33,768 $1397.90 12 3 Notable classmates: Audi A6 2.0 TDI, Jaguar XF 2.0T Luxury / Number of cars crunched: 5 wheelsmag.com.au 115 S UV Compactunder $45K Nav igating the SUV wilderness IF THE segment wasn't split into sub-segments, it would be the largest new-car class in Australia. Large SUV (11.7 percent of the market in 2014) is topped only by the small-car class (21.7 percent), while SUVs as a whole account for 31.2 percent of the local market. The compact and medium SUV segments have become more complicated in recent years, with widespread introduction of front-drive offerings, often as base models with smaller engines and a manual option. Considering that consumers flocked to SUVs for their outdoorsy image and elevated seating ST Mazda CX-5 Maxx 1 IT SAYS everything about the enduring popularity of the sports utility vehicle that this position (which also makes kid-loading is the single biggest Gold Star Value Awards category. Here, 26 of the category’s finest easier on your back), non-essentials being (well, everything on sale) fought it out for top honours. filtered out of this new breed of soft-roader Even with a glance at its stats, the entry-level CX-5 has all the ingredients of a is hardly an issue. value-packed winner. It’s cheap to buy, at $27,880, with resale (76 percent) that reflects With AWD underpinnings dropped, the fact compact SUVs are as popular used as they are new. In front-drive manual form, weight and transmission issues are the atmo 2.0-litre petrol engine works okay, and what the four-pot lacks in grunt it reduced; a more economical four-cylinder makes up for with 6.4L/100km official economy on 91 octane juice. The Mazda’s annual can work in place of a turbo or V6. But for comprehensive insurance bill is among the cheapest in class, too, at $950. those who want to venture off the beaten Meanwhile, the 12-month service requirement brings family-friendly convenience ahead track, a turbo-diesel part-time AWD (most of rivals with less generous six-month and nine-month intervals. But the real appeal of compact and medium SUVs) or full-time the class-leading CX-5 is that the value is designed into it from the start. It’s a fine-driving, 4WD (bigger SUVs/4x4s) still makes sense. well-packaged and efficient compact SUV that also happens to be easy on the wallet. things to remember 3  Size classes a grey area; buy the SUV that best fits your family and budget ND Si  2 WHAT hurts the Kia soft-roader’s  Consider efficient and affordable score is that it’s 28 percent thirstier  two-wheel-drive SUVs for urban duties than the CX-5, and worse-off for  Not all all-wheel-drive SUVs are created depreciation (71 percent) and insurance  equal; some on-demand/part-time ($1012). However, the Korean brand’s AWDs can struggle off-road five-year warranty comes to the rescue Wagons to snare the Sportage a silver medal. RD Mitsubishi TAKE two-wheel-drive SUVs to their 3 ASX LS logical conclusion by removing the high ‘LS’ MAY stand for ‘less stuff’, but centre of gravity and you end up with a also ‘less spent’. Limiting equipment wagon. Okay, so they’re out of fashion, to the must-haves makes the base ASX but given that today’s SUV looks more a bargain buy. Cheap insurance, solid like an overgrown than a 4x4, resale, and a five-year warranty help, but we’re convinced the driving benefits more 7.6L/100km economy is nothing special. than outweigh the small stylistic and convenience sacrifices of a wagon.

Combined AAMI Service Compact SUV under $45K Purchase cycle fuel Fuel RON Three-year Redbook Three-year insurance interval Warranty Price (L/100km) (min. rec.) fuel cost resale (%) depreciation premium (months) (years) Mazda CX-5 Maxx $27,880 6.4 91 $3653 76 $6691 $950.03 12 3 Kia Sportage Si man $25,990 8.2 91 $4680 71 $7537 $1012.46 12 5 Mitsubishi ASX LS $24,990 7.6 91 $4338 65 $8747 $1006.44 12 5 Notable classmates: Hyundai ix35 Active, Suzuki S-Cross GL / Number of cars crunched: 26 116 wheelsmag.com.au Value Gold StarAwa rds

ND Mercedes-Benz2014 S UV 2 GLA200 CDI THE ageing 2.1-litre turbo-diesel four responsible for the GLA200 CDI’s under $60K 4.6L/100km combined cycle fuel use isn’t the slickest unit, but it does help ST Mazda CX-5 Akera 1 COMPARING the top-spec CX-5 with than $11,000 of its value over three years, the front-drive base model Benz save Compactthe base model, which won its category compared with $6700 for the entry-level bucks at the bowser. in the cheaper price bracket, delivers a variant. To put it into perspective, that’s lesson in the cost of depreciation. While the more than double what you’ll spend on fuel flagship 2.5-litre petrol AWD Akera has an and insurance over the same period, and identical 76 percent retained value figure, that’s for a relatively inexpensive car with a its extra $20K cost means it sheds more resale figure among the best of the GSC field.

RD Toyota RAV4 3 Cruiser AWD WHAT’S the best thing about the flagship RAV4? Its badge. Toyota longevity is the stuff of legend, and is reflected here by a healthy 66 percent resale.

SUV/ under $75K

ST Peugeot 3008 Allure ND Audi Q5 2.0 TDI PremiumTHE definition of a crossover is difficult is not brilliant, at 58 percent, but little in 1 2 quattro to pin down, but the Peugeot 3008 the segment betters it. However, the Pug’s A STRONG 72 percent retained value Allure’s value offer is black and white. insurance is more affordable at $1136, and reflects the Q5's atypical A relatively efficient 115kW 1.6-litre turbo its 12-monthly service requirement is as brand-of-the-moment cool, four delivers 7.8L/100km on premium fuel, good as it gets. Steering and ride comfort are which, along with Audi’s which is as good as many and better than no selling points, but the Pug's design flair miserly 2.0-litre turbo- some. Redbook's three-year retained value brings left-field appeal. diesel, does the bulk of the points-gathering.

RD Mini Cooper S 3 Countryman FWD JACKED-UP not-so-Mini is a consistent performer across the disciplines, bringing engine efficiency, sound resale, a condition-based service system and class-cheapest ($1097) insurance to the table.

Combined AAMI Service Compact SUV $60K Purchase cycle fuel Fuel RON Three-year Redbook Three-year insurance interval Warranty Price (L/100km) (min. rec.) fuel cost resale (%) depreciation premium (months) (years) Mazda CX-5 Akera AWD $46,570 7.4 91 $4224 76 $11,177 $1160.16 12 3 Mercedes-Benz GLA200 CDI $47,900 4.6 D $2780 66 $16,286 $1208.69 12 3 Toyota RAV4 Cruiser AWD $47,290 8.5 91 $4852 66 $16,079 $1180.24 6 3 Notable classmates: BMW X1 sDrive 2.0i / Number of cars crunched: 4 Premium SUV/crossover under $75K Peugeot 3008 Allure $39,990 7.8 95 $4740 58 $16,796 $1135.86 12 3 Audi Q5 2.0 TDI quattro S tronic $62,600 6.1 D $3687 72 $17,528 $1368.02 12 3 Mini Cooper S Countryman 2WD AT $44,900 7.5 98 $4816 60 $17,960 $1096.81 12 3 Notable classmates: Volvo XC60 D4 Kinetic, VW Passat Alltrack 130TDI / Number of cars crunched: 7 wheelsmag.com.au 117 Value Gold StarAwa rds 2014

SUV Medium7-seater under $60K

Mitsubishi Outlander ES ST 1 LIKE many base SUVs, the Outlander ES FWD eschews Nissan X-Trail ST features today’s buyers don’t need, and perhaps never 2ND FWD 7-seat needed, such as all-wheel drive and a big donk. The result NISSAN’S new-gen mid-size is a cheaper entry price, reduced kerb weight and improved SUV remains a buyer’s (not economy. Meanwhile, the SUV selling points remain. driver’s) car, with a third-row Buyers still get the elevated seating position, packaged in a option for the first time. A family wagon that looks like an off-roader. 70 percent three-year resale is The $27,740 Mitsubishi is a good example of the breed. stellar, but a six-month service It’s remarkably light at 1395kg, which is reflected in the Holden Captiva 7 LS interval takes the shine off. RD reasonable 7.1L/100km economy delivered by its 2.0-litre 3 SOLID rather than petrol four with a five-speed manual. However, performance standout performance is only adequate, and the handling merely okay. Yet the mid- earned Captiva the bronze. Its size Outlander still offers room for seven. 9.1L/100km economy and Against the Gold Star Value criteria, it holds its value 60 percent three-year resale well and is relatively inexpensive to insure. The 12-month are fair; it’s cheap to insure service interval is welcome, while the Japanese brand’s at $968, but the nine-month five-year warranty is generous. Never mind that the service interval is oddball. warranty runs to 130,000km, rather than being unlimited.

Combined AAMI Service Medium SUV 7-seater under $60K Purchase cycle fuel Fuel RON Three-year Redbook Three-year insurance interval Warranty Price (L/100km) (min. rec.) fuel cost resale (%) depreciation premium (months) (years) Mitsubishi Outlander ES $27,740 7.1 91 $4053 60 $11,096 $1114.79 12 5 Nissan X-Trail ST 7-seat $31,580 8.1 91 $4623 70 $9474 $1141.51 6 3 Holden Captiva 7 LS $30,490 9.0 91 $5137 60 $12,196 $968.63 9 3 Notable classmates: Dodge Journey SXT, Toyota Kluger GX 2WD / Number of cars crunched: 6 118 wheelsmag.com.au Hyundai Santa Fe 2ND CRDi Active SUV/4WD IT MAKES sense that Sorento’s platform-buddy would feature at the pointy end. It was topped – just – due to its slightly greater depreciation and insurance costs. Bet Hyundai wishes it Large kept the chassis all to itself.

Mitsubishi Pajero GLX RD 3 MITSUBISHI’S Pajero is something of a Gold Star Value Awards regular. Si Its recurrence in the results correctly ST suggests that its value equation is THE base Sorento diesel costs just Considering the amount of metal for 1 rock-solid. Works far $1500 more than the petrol version, yet the money and the big Kia’s genuine better in the bush simultaneously slashes fuel use from off-roadability, the $39,990 ask is than the ’burbs. 9.8 to 6.6L/100km and delivers almost reasonable, while a 69 percent three-year 100Nm of extra torque. It’s plainly the retained value means depreciation is pick, though the manual version (as manageable. Factor in cheap insurance, a considered here) is perhaps not as liveable 12-month service interval and a five-year as the auto for urban duty. warranty, and the Sorento is a smart buy. under $60K People-movers

Hyundai iMax 2.5 CRDi SLX ND 2 THE split between Hyundai’s huge eight-seater, a passenger version of its iLoad , and third place was close. Size should make your decision clear.

Volkswagen Caddy 3RD Maxi Comfortline Kia Rondo Si GOLF-DERIVED (up front, at least) THERE’S more than one way to skin a Awards, and it’s clear why. The $32,790 Caddy, like iMax, has workhorse people-mover, and that’s just on the Korean bus is a cheap way of carting origins, but it drives podium. While our winner embodies the family, and efficient as well, thanks like a hatch. Terrific old-school MPV values, others here are to a 6.4L/100km turbo-diesel. Resale is 70 percent commercials doing passenger-car duty. reasonable and insurance is cheap-as. three-year The Rondo has cropped up more than Then there’s Kia’s long service interval retained value. once at the pointy end of the Gold Star and five-year warranty.

Combined AAMI Service Large SUV/4WD Purchase cycle fuel Fuel RON Three-year Redbook Three-year insurance interval Warranty Price (L/100km) (min. rec.) fuel cost resale (%) depreciation premium (months) (years) Kia Sorento Si manual $39,990 6.6 D $3989 69 $12,397 $1100.16 12 5 Hyundai Santa Fe CRDi Active manual $41,490 6.6 D $3989 66 $14,107 $1112.95 12 5 Mitsubishi Pajero GLX $50,990 8.4 D $5077 65 $17,847 $1229.04 12 5 Notable classmates: Mazda CX-9 Classic FWD, Holden Colorado 7 LT / Number of cars crunched: 13 People movers under $60K Kia Rondo Si $32,790 6.4 D $3868 60 $13,116 $1044.91 12 5 Hyundai iMax 2.5 CDRi SLX manual $41,490 8.1 D $4895 69 $12,862 $1085.49 12 5 Volkswagen Caddy Maxi Comfortline $39,990 5.8 D $3505 70 $11,997 $1106.62 12 3 Notable classmates: Citroen C4 Grand Picasso, Honda Odyssey VTi / Number of cars crunched: 10 wheelsmag.com.au 119 Value Gold StarAwa rds 2014 Performanceunder $75K

Lease or buy? A TRADITIONAL car loan combined with a rapidly depreciating asset can be a wealth hazard. On the other hand, leasing can be attractive to attractive to business owners and some employees because it can deliver big tax advantages. A lease is a contract under which you pay for the use of the car. When the term is up, you hand the car back, or buy it. A car lease can offer ease and simplicity by including running costs; you pay a monthly amount and let the lease company take care of it. In the case of a novated lease, the monthly payment, running costs and fringe benefits tax are paid out of an employee’s pre-tax salary,

ST Peugeot 208 GTi reducing taxable income. Employees 1 PUG’S return-to-form GTi may have bowed real-world used prices remains to be seen. can potentially choose the car and to Ford’s Fiesta ST at comparo time, but Then there are the Pug’s 5.9L/100km official buy it at the end of the lease. For Convertibles when it comes to number-crunching, the feisty fuel use and $978 insurance premium, the best the self-employed, business vehicle French hot hatch turns the tables on its rival. of any of the 25 performance cars considered. costs, including lease payments, are Despite costing $4000 more to buy, the 208 Only a good (but not great) three-year warranty tax deductible. fights back with stronger resale, for starters, stood between the reborn GTi and a Gold Star though whether this will be reflected in Awards clean-sweep. things to remember 3  A salary sacrifice arrangement  can save you a lot, especially for those in higher tax brackets  Not all lease plans give operators

RD Renault Clio  the option to buy the car at the 3 RS200 EDC end of the term RENAULT’S re-priced, fourth-gen hot  Business vehicle lease costs can Clio, now with turbo-assisted shove, moves  be a significant tax deduction for firmly into the crosshairs for value-conscious the self-employed buyers, narrowly ahead of another hi-po Korean coupe, the Kia Koup Turbo. ND Hyundai Veloster Negotiate first 2 SR Turbo IT'S possible to lose out when leasing ONLY 0.7 percentage points separated if you don’t keep the vehicle purchase the 208 GTi and Hyundai’s quirky process and finance arrangements four-door coupe. The boosted Veloster separate, at least initially. Sort the car boasts fine efficiency, superb resale, deal first, then the money, because if inexpensive insurance, a 12-month you work back from a monthly figure, service interval and a five-year warranty. an inflated car purchase price may be quietly factored in.

Combined AAMI Service Performance under $75K Purchase cycle fuel Fuel RON Three-year Redbook Three-year insurance interval Warranty Price (L/100km) (min. rec.) fuel cost resale (%) depreciation premium (months) (years) Peugeot 208 GTi $29,990 5.9 95 $3586 68 $9597 $978.87 12 3 Hyundai Veloster SR Turbo $31,990 6.8 91 $3881 65 $11,197 $992.02 12 5 Renault Clio RS200 EDC $29,290 6.3 95 $3829 60 $11,716 $1124.80 12 5 Notable classmates: Kia Cerato Koup Turbo, Ford Fiesta ST / Number of cars crunched: 25 120 wheelsmag.com.au $75K-$150K

ND Porsche Cayman Performance 2 THE Cayman’s biggest threat comes from an in-haus rival, the Boxster. Predictably, their key stats are similar, but the tin lid version's 67 percent three-year retained value trumps the drop-top’s 62 percent.

RD Volvo S60 Polestar 3 THE S60 Polestar’s Gold Star Awards performance is at least as impressive as its surprise V8 Supercar race form. It couldn’t match Audi’s S4 (5th) at comparo time, but pips it for value here. ST Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG 1 BENZ’S weapon-fast compact sedan the Cayman, there’s only a whisker in might price itself out of contention it aside from depreciation, where the against the likes of the $60K Audi S3 and Porsche’s $20K-higher purchase price hurts $50K Subaru WRX STi, but at $87K it’s its chances. The $100K Volvo S60 Polestar something of a bargain in the next price is a more likely cross-shopping candidate, bracket up, where it has more than the but the small German soundly beats the speed and talent to hold its own. Against medium-sized Swede.

under $60K

ND Renault Megane CC 2 THE departure of the Holden Convertibles Astra and Ford Focus CC, and the impending demise of Volkswagen’s Eos, has handed this small slice of the convertible segment to Renault’s much-improved Megane CC.

3RD Volkswagen ST Fiat 500 C Pop Golf cabriolet 1 BEING the smallest, cheapest ragtop that the service interval is a too-frequent THE drop-top Golf, although on the market helped the Fiat 500 C’s six months. Neither does it matter that the double the price of the winning Fiat, chances, and made the frugal (5.1L/100km) atmo 1.2-litre four offers a paltry 51kW, nor is easily twice the car. A 65 percent $20K fashion accessory a Gold Star that you pay $4K for the privilege of no roof, retained value is class-best, and it certainty. At this price, it hardly matters only to introduce body flex. works out better in dollars per year.

Combined AAMI Service Performance $75K-150K Purchase cycle fuel Fuel RON Three-year Redbook Three-year insurance interval Warranty Price (L/100km) (min. rec.) fuel cost resale (%) depreciation premium (months) (years) Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG $86,900 7 98 $4495 65 $30,415 $1,856.40 12 3 Porsche Cayman $106,600 7.7 98 $4945 67 $35,178 $1,847.08 12 3 Volvo S60 Polestar $99,550 9.9 98 $6358 52 $47,784 $1,824.12 12 3 Notable classmates: Audi S4, BMW Z4 sDrive35i / Number of cars crunched: 8 Convertibles under $60K Fiat 500C Pop MTA $20,000 5.1 95 $3099 57 $8600 $920.76 6 3 Renault Megane CC $38,490 8.1 95 $4923 60 $15,396 $1102.63 12 5 Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet $40,390 6.5 98 $4174 65 $14,137 $1134.23 12 3 Notable classmates: Audi A3 Cabriolet 1.4 TFSI, Peugeot 308CC / Number of cars crunched: 6 wheelsmag.com.au 121