NBR WINTER 2018 WITH CAMERON OFFICER MOTORING NBR motoring editor

NEWS INTERVIEWS NEW VEHICLE FLEET LEASING REVIEWS NBR MOTORING WINTER 2018

The Takata airbag recall CAMERON OFFICER ‘How to’ guide launched has dominated the first NBR motoring editor quarter of this year for firms adding electric

If you had asked me five years ago which car company would provide the ride for my first vehicles to fleets full electric vehicle media launch, I’m not sure how I’d have answered. Toyota perhaps. Or Nissan maybe. But Jaguar? No, not a Not-for-profit EV advocacy group, Drive Electric is provid- chance. ing first-hand advice on how to introduce electric vehicles into company fleets. Yet, I have just attended the international The group has issued a white paper titled Building an 03 02 media launch for Jaguar’s I-Pace electric electric fleet: a ‘how-to’ guide for businesses considering SUV. I’d even add ‘performance’ into that transitioning to electric vehicles. wordy descriptive, such was Jaguar Land Meridian Energy’s procurement manager Nick Robil- liard is one of the key contributors to the research after Rover’s eagerness that attendees really eke successfully switching over half of his company’s passen- out as much pace as possible from the car, ger fleet to EVs. with multiple laps in anger around Portimáo Meridian, which has sponsored the white paper, owns Nick Robilliard Circuit, inland from Faro on the southern a mix of second-generation near-new Nissan Leafs and coast of Portugal. It also had media scaling late-model all-electric Hyundai IONIQs, along with new steep forestry tracks and traversing gravel generation 2018 Nissan Leafs. roads in its new electric car. Mr Robilliard says one of the keys to success in adopt- ing more EVs in a commercial fleet is to consider a mix of The I-Pace has to be bulletproof. Not because both used and new EV options. its desired owners are likely to take it to a “I asked, ‘Why do we buy new vehicles?’ For a lot of the New cars selling steadily but a track day or up a mountain (well, not often around-town functions, where people aren’t doing huge anyway) but more because the company has kilometres, why would I get a new vehicle? I actually spent a lot to prove. less electrifying the fleet,” he says. turbulent start to 2018 for industry This isn’t anything new per se. There are Retaining value other manufacturers with electric vehicles Andrew Caseley Although new Hyundai IONIQs cost more than their The headlines remain much the same vehicles had had the inflator replaced, on the market already. The aforementioned non-electric equivalents, the money he saved on the do these sites go live?’, because that was critical to making as last year, with record months being there remain another 45,622 to be Nissan has been making the Leaf so long it’s second-hand Leafs made great financial sense. this work for us. Now there are eight 50kW DC chargers experienced for new car registrations in completed. the New Zealand market. “Contrary to common into its second generation. Jaguar isn’t even EVs also stack up in maintenance, servicing and resale on that route.” But the continued record-breaking misunderstanding, under New Zealand the first premium carmaker to build an EV; value, Mr Robilliard says. However, that won’t be as much of a consideration sales also mask a rocky start to the year legislation distributors of new vehicles are BMW has also recently unveiled the next “By converting to electric, we’ve managed to save when the early generation Leafs are replaced with the lat- for the wider industry, with first the ‘stink not obliged to undertake recalls of used update to its i3 city car. between $5000 and $6000 per year on operating and est 40kW model, which boasts a range of around 250km, bug’ infestation holding up deliveries imported vehicles,” Mr Crawford says. maintenance costs for each vehicle. Mr Robilliard says. in the first quarter and the continuing “New Zealand consumer legislation The difference with the Jaguar I-Pace is “After 14 months, the IONIQs have retained 87% of the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) Takata airbag recall and remediation work places consumer obligations, including that it’s the first EV to be built as a direct original purchase price. This compares favourably against chief executive Andrew Caseley says fleet buyers are play- threatening the bottom line for the many recalls, on the supplier of the goods, response to the pioneering dominance of the vehicles we would usually have bought, where 70-75% ing a hugely important role in transforming New Zealand’s distributors involved. which in this case is the importer of the Tesla. of value is retained.” light fleet from fossil-fueled vehicles to EVs. The Motor Industry Association (MIA) used vehicle. Although there are financial benefits, Mr Robilliard says “The majority of new vehicles bought here are bought Boasting similar dimensions to the Tesla has fully endorsed a wide-scale airbag “The MIA is not opposing imports of The Ford Ranger (above) was back on top of the bestselling vehicles table in May it’s important to get staff buy-in. or leased by businesses. These then filter into the con- and the Toyota Highlander (below) proves not all top-selling vehicles are utes Model X SUV, the I-Pace does the same job recall, with thousands of cars affected. used vehicles but these vehicles should “Taking people on the EV journey was really import- sumer market as used vehicles,” he says. “The Takata airbag recall is not be on-sold to consumers with as Tesla’s largest car. But it’s brand new and ant. We’re a company full of engineers who are naturally “I applaud those businesses showing leadership by unprecedented in scale. It is a massively outstanding [open] recalls.” features plenty of technology that shows curious, which has made this easier,” he says. introducing EVs into their fleets and sharing their experi- large and complex logistical issue the Model X up. The Jag also looks better, The Drive Electric white paper also covers charging ences, such as in this paper. It is challenging to be an early affecting new and used vehicles with two Pre-Fieldays rally although anything that left the drawing infrastructure needs. Planning for both onsite charging at adopter and practical, informed advice is an important different types of Takata airbags,” MIA After the ‘stink bug’ issue affecting car headquarters and charging out in public is essential. But part of bringing down the barriers.” board four years ago, as the Tesla did, is chief executive David Crawford says. carrier ships saw new car registration installing charging infrastructure at an owned or leased EECA, another sponsor of the Drive Electric white going to suffer a similar fate alongside a “The alpha type airbag inflator fitted figures falter in the first quarter as building isn’t always as simple as it sounds. paper, helps fleet managers by sup- stylish newcomer. to vehicles between 2001 and 2006 is distributors found themselves unable to “The cost to put in chargers varied widely according to porting the rollout of infrastructure One of the more at risk of failure if activated than fulfil orders, the numbers rallied during the site, and the reasons for that are a whole other con- and car share projects through the Now it’s up to Jaguar to make the I-Pace vehicles in other types of Takata airbag inflators. April and May, as pre-Fieldays special sideration. Every site will have a different power provision Low Emission Vehicles Contestable cool. Desired, even. Tesla’s brand cachet Meridian’s Completion of the recall will require the offers attracted new vehicle buyers. to it. Fund and by providing an online is so vast (even in the face of the ever- electric vehicle co-operation of government and industry In fact, May was the strongest on more gleeful hand-wringing of naysayers) total cost of ownership tool. fleet (below) and the MIA welcomes the government’s record, up 7.9% (1037 units) on May 2017. 4893 commercial vehicles were up 3.0% vehicles, with the Toyota Highlander that well-established car companies with Landlord happy? decision to make the alpha type airbag New vehicle registrations totalled 14,169 (148 units) on May 2017.” splitting the list in third spot. The Ford armies of marketing people on hand might “How does your landlord feel about recall mandatory.” during the month. In the year to date, the Ranger was back at the top of the never gain the same impact that Tesla has it? It’s an improvement to their market is up by 2.7% (1741 units) when Toyota at top bestselling vehicle model table, with 1017 achieved. building, so are they going to con- Many left to fix compared with the first five months of Toyota remains the overall market leader units. tribute? Are you going to separately The MIA undertook a stocktake of 2017. in May, with 18% market share (2569 This was followed by the Toyota Hilux, Remember, Tesla introduced cool cars to meter the power? Who’s paying affected vehicles in New Zealand during “The market for new vehicles units), followed by Ford with 11% (1619 with 582 units, and the Toyota Highlander, people who had never given cars a second for the power? So, there is lots to March, which revealed there are about continues to operate at historically high units) and Mazda with 8% market share with 467 units. thought before. Jaguar’s challenge will be to consider here.” 11,280 New Zealand new vehicles with the levels, with registrations underpinned by (1076 units). The top five segments were all light convince many of those same people that it’s Mr Robilliard also had to consid- alpha type inflator. Of these cars 6485 a range of positive economic factors and In the commercial sector, Ford commercial vehicles and SUVs, reflecting the car with the leaping cat logo on the boot er how staff doing longer road trips have had the inflator replaced with 4795 a wide choice of models at competitive retained the market lead, with 23% market the continued popularity of these would be able to charge up, partic- that they actually want. remaining to be completed. prices,” Mr Crawford says. share (1132 units), followed by Toyota vehicles. SUVs accounted for 43% total ularly a regular 330km trip between The bigger risk comes with used Registrations of 9,276 passenger and ,with 16% (790 units), and Nissan, with market share and light commercials 30%, Where will each of these brands be five years Christchurch and Twizel. import vehicles, however. The MIA says SUV vehicles for the month of May were 10% market share (466 units). reflecting the continuing shift in buying from now? I’d hesitate to guess. But it will “I kept pretty close to Alpine En- there are 68,116 used vehicles with the up sharply on May 2017, an increase of Four of the top-five selling models for patterns from traditional sedans, station be an interesting ride. ergy and ChargeNet, asking ‘When alpha type inflator and, while 22,494 10.5% (889 units) and registrations of the month of May were light commercial wagons and hatchbacks. NBR MOTORING WINTER 2018

RANGE ROVER VELAR Changes to LED light DON’T WORRY, rules for vehicles IT’S FRIENDLY. upset manufacturers

Manufacturers and retailers of LED light electrical company, Narva. MDL0467_NBR bulb products for motor vehicles are “The issue previously was that the disappointed changes to the NZ Transport wording in the regulations dated back Agency’s Vehicle Inspection Requirements to a time before the advent of LED

04 Manual (VIRM) make LED lights in some technology, so you have references to applications illegal. ‘filament,’ for example.” The new ruling came into effect on Until now, the NZTA stance was that June 1 and states that passenger vehicles any globe had to conform to in-test must run the same lights they were fitted standards on a beam-setter; the way with at the factory. the likes of Vehicle Testing New Zealand globes out there that don’t meet the don’t conform to regulations, meaning There are some exclusions, such as (VTNZ) and other vehicle inspection beam-setter standards but we have any vehicle tested with these will fail its Australian Design Rule- and ECE-approved agencies test all headlights. worked hard to ensure ours do,” Mr warrant of fitness inspection. LEDs and LED headlamps on trucks. The test ensures vehicle headlights Paterson says. Mr Paterson says the new ruling Manufacturers of LED products – a have required ‘throw’ and don’t dazzle He says LED light products are safer doesn’t affect LED lightbars – a growing part of the automotive after- oncoming traffic, as well as the required than conventional bulbs, help eliminate popular addition for many ute and market – are disappointed the blanket ban output within a specified range. driver fatigue when driving at night and off-road vehicle owners – but suggests was implemented without consultation also last much longer, necessitating there might eventually be VIRM with the industry. LEDs meet standard less replacements over the life of the changes specific to those products “There do need to be new standards “Narva has its own light laboratory in average motor vehicle. also. for LED products but we simply wish the Melbourne, which we use to engineer “We believe the better you see, the “We’re not the only ones making or industry was involved in the process that our products. We extensively test to safer you are,” he says. selling LED bulbs but we certainly feel led to the regulation changes,” says Tim ensure our LED lights meet accepted The change to the VIRM means our products are safe and conform to Paterson from automotive lighting and ‘throw’ and output. There are definitely retro-fitted replacement LED globes sensible rules.”

each week. equipment for the repairer to replicate “There are more than 7200 EVs and the factory join when replacing structural hybrids registered in New Zealand, which parts of the vehicle. represents a 958% increase in vehicle “The introduction of new internation- registrations from just 680 vehicles only ally recognised I-CAR standards will mean three years ago.” the public can be reassured a panelbeat- EVs bring their own set of challenges er has undergone a training and audit for panelbeaters and collision repairers process to keep him or her up to date,” when damaged in an accident. he says. “Like all alkali metals, lithium is highly According to the CRA, there is already reactive and flammable. The risk asso- anecdotal evidence that the demand for ciated with lithium-ion batteries found front-end replacement parts for new cars in EVs adds a high level of complexity to has dropped away as more vehicles are the repair process too, including poten- able to automatically prevent this type of tial electrocution of the repairer,” Mr crash. Pritchard says. “Feedback from our membership base EVs bring higher The CRA has also identified an elevated suggested the nature and scope of vehicle risk of fire, which prevents the vehicle crashes is beginning to change and will from entering a spray booth, so the panel- continue to do so as more advanced vehi- risks, standards for beater must introduce processes specific cles hit the local market over the coming to that type of vehicle to complete the years. repair. “Not only do new vehicles with colli- crash repairers sion mitigation technology get into fewer New service standards front-end crashes but, when they do have New standards have been introduced by trains and electric systems as well as the “At the same time, many new models accidents, the damage often tends to be the country’s largest body of panelbeaters entering the market have advances in more cosmetic than structural. increased use of exotic materials in vehicle * to cope with increasing numbers of EVs, manufacturing. safety technology that allow the vehicle to “Despite this, these vehicles are in- COMPLIMENTARY R-DYNAMIC UPGRADE hybrids and vehicles equipped with ad- “With the increase of EVs, self-driving proactively mitigate or avoid collisions. creasingly more complex to repair With its bold purposeful stance and foil stamped front grille, the vanced safety technology on New Zealand “To accommodate this change, we as the cars are now equipped technology and new construction materi- Range Rover Velar may appear rather intimidating. But remember, it’s roads. als, vehicle manufacturing has seen more are bringing in new international ser- with sensors, cameras and ra- still a Land Rover with legendary go anywhere capability. Over unfriendly Collision Repair Association (CRA) advances over the past decade than over vice-quality standards to the industry dar systems. What appears to spokesman Neil Pritchard says the indus- the past century,” he says. that will see repairers commit to be a minor accident from terrain, it will always be your best friend. Available now for $115,650 plus try is moving to stay ahead of the rapid continuing training, equipment the exterior may have on road costs, including complimentary R-Dynamic upgrade. evolution in car manufacturing, which Repair risks rise upgrades, annual inspections and damaged the network Book a test drive at your local retailer today. is increasing the complexity of vehicle “Although EVs are touted as having a audit processes before they can of onboard technolo- repairs. reduced need for mechanical servicing, become a licensed collision gy,” Mr Pritchard says. landrover.co.nz Mr Pritchard says the lack of regulation when it comes to collision repairs there is repairer in this market. in the collision repair market can create a significant increase in the risk and repair Mr Pritchard says modern quality control issues for consumers. The complexity to get them back on the road.” vehicles are made from high- Collision Repair situation is getting worse with the intro- Mr Pritchard says the pace of this strength steel, aluminium and Association * Range Rover Velar P250 R-Dynamic S. Price shown is the Maximum Retail Price (MRP). Limited MY18 stock available. duction of more cars equipped with active change is continuing to accelerate as other exotic materials that spokesman Neil Not available in conjunction with any other offer. Image does not represent vehicle on offer. safety systems, advanced hybrid drive- more such vehicles hit New Zealand roads require special training and Pritchard NBR MOTORING WINTER 2018

Tough times for Tesla as carmakers catch up with disruptor

Tesla founder Elon Musk’s headline-grab- Discounting any internal hurdles the bing chutzpah has to be admired. company has to surmount, the other issue Against a backdrop of brewing finan- is that established manufacturers such as cial calamity, naysayer predictions of his Jaguar, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan and company’s imminent collapse, production others have all signalled their intent to build 07 06 delays to his more affordable mainstream long-range premium-level electric vehicles. model and hemmed in on all sides by es- Jaguar’s I-Pace (a Model X-rivalling fam- tablished manufacturers launching or soon ily-sized coupe-style SUV) was launched to launch rival EVs, he still beams a mil- to media earlier this month. Audi’s e-tron lion-dollar smile and promises shareholders range is imminent. Volvo will invest Lifestyle vehicles key to the world if not the entire universe. significantly in its Polestar sub-brand in South Island success Mr Musk announced in early June that the automotive arm If you want to sell cars in the South Island, having a range of fuel-efficient of his technology company will vehicles with all-wheel drive ability is critical, Sam Wilkes, dealer principal at produce a Volkswagen Golf- Armstrong Subaru in Christchurch, says. sized electric hatchback “in less Wilkes says that, with a new-look Christchurch taking shape following than five years.” the 2010/11 earthquakes, a stronger emphasis on the lifestyle opportunities Although no further details the city and wider Canterbury region offers means there is more of a focus were given, the idea that he on vehicles that will will add another model line to get locals through a the company’s roster by 2023 range of environments, appears optimistic at best. whether they’re working The Tesla Model 3 – the Tesla’s Model 3 has been too slow in coming for or playing. company’s highly-subscribed many customers who put down deposits “Now Christchurch mid-sizer – has been plagued by is really back up and production delays and quality issues. Ru- the coming 18 months, moving it from a humming, there is a mours that over 20% of deposits received performance-only division to a fully EV-fo- real emphasis on the for the Model 3 during its feverish launch cused offshoot. region’s 365-day appeal phase a couple of years ago have now been Then there are luxury and performance from a lifestyle and handed back, have been dismissed by Tesla. marques such as Bentley, Aston Martin, living point of view. We But there is no denying the delays: Porsche and Maserati, all of which have have skiing and tramp- Having models with all wheel drive is crucial in Global pre-orders of 400,000 cars will announced EV-specific derivatives or ing nearby. Within half the South Island, Sam Wilkes, dealer principal take years to fulfill. Anyone with their name new models. While they won’t boast the an hour of the CBD you at Armstrong Subaru in Christchurch, says. down for a right-hand drive Model 3 will be manufacturing numbers of a Daimler-Benz can be fishing or moun- waiting until 2019 or 2020. or Nissan, they do come with pre-packaged tain biking on dry riverbed tracks; I think we are well-placed as a brand and a heritage and affluent brand loyalists. dealership to capitalise on that,” he says. Industry scorn With the performance-themed Tesla Armstrong Subaru represents the biggest volume dealership in the Japa- The delays have been met with scorn by Roadster still two years away from launch, nese brand’s New Zealand network, with a customer imprint right across the some in the car industry; notable among it could prove the disruptor will be playing South Island. It’s more than straightforward lifestyle, however, because Wil- them is ex-General Motors bigwig Bob catch-up to the establishment by the time Lutz, who has long been critical of Tesla’s it arrives. kes says that Subaru has enjoyed strong growth in the user-chooser market approach. For Mr Musk, there is serious money of late, because of its standard all-wheel drive engineering. In the US market GM is selling the riding on an improved performance. His electrified Chevrolet Bolt – a car that does new contract details milestones that will Building up mileage the same job as the Tesla Model 3 in terms net him $US55m if he increases Tesla’s mar- “In the South Island, sales reps tend to travel longer distances through a of size and battery range – and is delivering ket cap to $US650b over the next 10 years. broader range of conditions. Often a company rep will have to look after the thousands to customers every month. Tes- That’s a big increase from the $US54b the entire island, so we see bigger miles: 40,000-50,000km per year isn’t uncom- la managed only 2000 Model 3 deliveries in company is valued at now. mon, whereas in the North, you’re more likely to see the island split into two the US in 2017. Of course, it doesn’t seem as though it’s or three territories, so mileage for reps there is less. The issue for Tesla, however, is that it all about the money for the 46-year-old. “We have customers who have changed jobs but have had it written into Now you can own an elegantly designed SUV for less than is spending similar reserves to GM to get But rather than spend the next five years their contract with their new employer that the company car still needs to you’ve ever paid. You’ll also drive away with a surprising array those cars on the road. GM has many prod- developing another compact model, Mr be a Subaru Outback. That’s how much people trust the brand around here,” uct lines to draw upon for revenue; Tesla Musk might be better to get his house in Wilkes says. of features: • Smartphone Connectivity • Reversing Camera only has three. order and keep his feet on terra firma. Another trend Wiles says he has identified is that, after a dalliance with • Sports Trim • Keyless Entry • 2.0L Engine • 18" Alloys • Daytime utes as catch-all company vehicles for people, some firms are moving back toward conventional passenger cars, especially SUVs. Running Lights • 7.6L per 100km effi ciency • 5-Star Safety “Utes are hardy and obviously practical but being in one 24/7 isn’t for and 10 Year Warranty. everyone. The next-generation Subaru Forester is arriving soon, and I know we will see some transitional customers into that. Call 0800 54 53 52 or visit mmnz.co.nz to fi nd your “The Outback continues to be a ‘go to’ as well, but the XV crossover has also proven very popular. People realise after a while that a double cab ute is nearest dealer now. bigger overall but not necessarily cleverer when it comes to utilising space to carry stuff.” * Price listed is for ASX 2WD XLS. Price excludes On Road Costs of $500 which includes WoF, Registration and a full tank of fuel. Off er available while stocks last. Visit mmnz.co.nz for full Diamond Advantage terms & conditions. MMNZ6106 “I’m hoping it snows up in the hills this afternoon,” he concludes. “It’s always a good reminder for people about all-wheel drive ability. And that’s always good for sales.” NBR MOTORING WINTER 2018

Rolls-Royce’s first SUV – the The Eclipse Cross is the Smartphone apps Cullinan first next-generation model for the Japanese manufacturer replace standalone GPS units

The once familiar imprint of satellite because early-tech sat nav units “told navigation suction mounts on car wind- them to” became the stuff of tabloid screens is quickly becoming a thing of fourth pages. the past, as drivers turn to free naviga- Now though, the prevalence of tion apps on their smartphones over smartphones boasting free software 09 08 ‘We’re chipping away at the standalone GPS units. such as Google Maps and Apple Maps, A decade ago satellite navigation along with buyable navigational apps brands in front,’ new units manufactured by the likes of Tom- such as Waze, has seen standalone GPS Tom and Garmin were big sellers, with units become redundant. Mitsubishi COO says buyers eager to use the new technology via the driver’s smartphone. In-car software such as Apple CarPlay Will this SUV-sized to navigate through unfamiliar sur- Satnav systems out In the UK, electronics retailers, such has made standalone satellite navigation as John Lewis, have pulled satellite The future looks exceedingly bright for Mitsubishi Motors on a global scale. roundings. Perhaps-apocryphal tales of What’s more, carmakers are also units redundant navigation units from brick-and-mortar But following his recent arrival in the chief operating officer seat, 16-year Mit- drivers steering their vehicles into ponds increasingly shying away from of- stores, relegating them to only being diamond shine for subishi Motors New Zealand veteran Daniel Cook says the local operation will fering satellite navigation systems in Whereas technology companies like available to buy online. John Lewis cites continue to take a measured approach in the short term. many models, ensuring instead that TomTom once placed great stock in us- declining sales over the past decade as “Things are obviously very positive for the brand following the Renault-Nis- new additions to their ranges feature er-led traffic updates, apps such as Goo- the reason for the move. Rolls-Royce? san Alliance purchase last year. I think we have the opportunity at a global level Apple CarPlay, Android Auto or their gle Maps now continually give updated Anecdotally, rental car companies to build both the brand and our model portfolio,” he says. own bespoke phone mirroring system, traffic information for the prescribed are also offering fewer standalone units “Those larger-scale whereby the driver’s smartphone screen route ahead. Proof that SUVs are the dominant force thing with a two-box silhouette and the with hired cars as free smartphone changes won’t be felt here is replicated on-screen in the dashboard Technology that is in almost every- in the automotive industry was rein- least suggestion of going off tarmac,” alternatives become the norm for cus- immediately though. And of the vehicle, effectively meaning even one’s pocket or handbag has seen forced twice within a matter of months says Rolls-Royce design director, Giles tomers without the need for the rental as a result I think Mitsub- many budget-friendly cars can, techni- the end of the first era of personal satel- recently. Taylor, in a press release. cally speaking, offer satellite navigation agency to invest in standalone units. lite navigation. Although supercar-maker Lamborgh- “We envisioned an authentic, three- ishi Motors New Zealand ini’s return to SUV manufacturing was box high-bodied all-terrain car with just has to keep doing perhaps an eye-opener, it is luxury brand a convention-challenging design and what it’s doing well. We have a great relationship Rolls-Royce’s latest model that will draw absolute capability that would satisfy the with Japan because we the sharpest intake of breath in some adventurous urges of our clients.” are a top performer for corners. Not the sort of stuff you’re likely to it, representing the 17th Yes, it’s an SUV. hear from Kia. largest market worldwide. Named after the largest diamond Rolls-Royce (owned, let’s not forget, “We really punch ever discovered (which now resides in by BMW these days) is serious about Daniel Cook, Mitsubishi New Zealand above our weight here, the British Crown Jewels), the Rolls- both its intentions to create an SUV chief operating officer and we’ve enjoyed 300% Royce Cullinan is certainly large. unlike any other, as well as an SUV that growth over the past As to be expected, more emphasis will go wherever needed if required. eight years, which is really good. We want to continue on that course.” has been placed on the rear passenger The company claims the Cullinan was With the brand’s latest model addition, the Eclipse Cross compact cross- compartment than whatever the actual “tested to destruction” in a variety of over SUV, Cook says Mitsubishi has the right car for the market and one that driver is up to – although with a 6.75-litre harsh environments around the world has brought new customers into showrooms. He also says other nameplates twin-turbo V12 under its broad bonnet, during its pre-launch regime. continue to do well. the Cullinan can certainly power across How it copes in cramped valet either a muddy polo field or entire parking garages at the rear of exclusive Important to have strong portfolio tracts of Europe with little effort. Los Angeles night clubs, or idling in hot “We are strong in SUVs, which certainly helps. Outlander continues to repre- Rolls-Royce says no two of its vehicles Dubai traffic, remains to be seen. sent a solid performer for us. Triton is a really strong seller for Mitsubishi too; are exactly the same although, with we used to sell a thousand the Cullinan expected to immediately units per year and now become the storied manufacturer’s we’re selling nearly 5000. biggest ever seller, there are some nods “Among other things, to distinct specification. the Renault-Nissan Alliance link will give us Silver Ghost era behemoths access to automated and Although a variety of luxurious seating connected car technolo- options can be requested, for example, gies but it’s important to the Cullinan is the first Rolls-Royce that have a strong portfolio of has ever needed to offer something as models for the here-and- mundane as folding rear seats. now.” Triton remains integral to Mitsubishi’s The vehicle apes the “high-riding ve- Mitsubishi Motors NZ performance in New Zealand hicles” of Rolls-Royce’s distant past: the has recently added a large THE ALL NEW BMW X2. Silver Ghost-era behemoths favoured dealership in Botany, Auckland, and is on the hunt for new sites in Silverdale, Dare to stand out in the all new BMW X2. With a ground-breaking design, seamless connectivity and by maharajas and early 20th century in north Auckland, as well as Queenstown. Dealerships in Christchurch and forward-thinking technology, the all new BMW X2 is ready for any urban adventure. From $60,900.* game-hunting captains of industry. As a Taupo have also recently received upgrades. Dare to book a test drive with Auckland City BMW today. result, there is plenty of poetry in a lot “We’re chipping away at the brands in front of us,” says Cook. “We’re sitting in fifth place behind Holden and I think we can get to fourth. That’s big for us. of the company spiel accompanying the Auckland City BMW “We have always had solid product that is well-built and well-priced. In the arrival of the 7-15 Great South Road, Newmarket. (09) 524 3300. www.aucklandcitybmw.com The Cullinan’s past we’ve done well with our cars and customer loyalty but we’ve never SUV. sumptuous interior The Ultimate really shouted about the brand. I think that will change in the next couple Driving Machine “The label (above) and cutting an *Recommended Retail Price based on BMW X2 sDrive18i, includes GST, excluded on-road costs. SUV is now imposing figure even of years, however.”

applied to any- from above (right) BMD0308_ACB_X2_NBR NBR MOTORING WINTER 2018

HONDA NSX

The Honda NSX supercar, rejuvenated and celebrated for several years and finally SPECIFICATIONS available to New Zealand buyers, is fast. As Engine: 3.5-litre twin turbo V6 in superbike fast. triple electric motor hybrid It will shoot from standstill to 100km/h Power: 427kW in about 2.9 seconds, which is faster than Torque: 646Nm you can say “Sport Hybrid Super Handling Fuel consumption: 8.9L/100km All-Wheel-Drive.” That lengthy title encompasses myriad Price: $400,000 approx.

technologies that go into making the 11

10 second-generation NSX one of the most effective point-and-go performance cars provide a rather synthesised driving feel TOYOTA CAMRY ZR HYBRID on sale right now. It’s involving, direct and but it’s quite the opposite, allowing for pin- brutally powerful. point accuracy that flatters the driver. The combined power output from its To talk about the NSX is to talk about The Toyota Camry Hybrid is a car that The thing is, where the Camry has pletely removed from the Camrys of old. conventional petrol turbo and the electric tech. But it would also be remiss of me to ignore this supercar’s storied past. has been hiding in plain sight all along. been concerned, it has almost become Mixing Toyota’s re-engineered hybrid motors is a whopping 427kW. That’s The car on these pages is the sec- In an age when buyers are fleeing in generic shorthand for “taxi”. Especially system with an updated CVT transmis- 200kW more than the manufacturer’s ond-generation model. The last Honda the direction of SUVs in their droves, the hybrid version. sion (Sequential Shiftmatic) and ZR- already rather-sporting Civic Type R hot NSX was legendary for providing all the sedans have become a specific car for I’m in no way damning the model with grade body styling additions that remain hatch (if you’re counting). The fact it uses electric motors means fun bits of a 1990s-era supercar and a specific purpose: not the catch-all for faint praise when I add that because, on the right side of subtle, this particular eliminating all the bad bits (namely going anyone wanting a family-sized vehicle anecdotally, I’ve never come across a Camry not only stands out from the pack it has the ability to generate torque in- stantly – helping with that off-the-start-line through a hedge backward and on fire that they were, say, a decade ago. Camry Hybrid-owning taxi driver who but is also enjoyable and engaging to performance. But the car uses its hybrid because you stamped on the accelerator However, if a three-box saloon (to use doesn’t love their car. drive too. electric motors elsewhere too, improving slightly too brusquely). increasingly old-fashioned parlance) is Still, for the average user-chooser, this It has plenty of technology onboard – SPECIFICATIONS acceleration, braking and cornering. With The new NSX has had a very long gesta- what you desire, then perhaps the true could present a psychological barrier. But including Toyota’s latest comprehensive Engine: 2.5-litre four-cylinder electrically powered torque vectoring tion; it was first announced as likely back in 21st century interpretation of a worthy Toyota has something of a salve for this; suite of active and passive safety tech – petrol electric hybrid provided by the twin front motor set- 2007. Remarkably, it took Honda another sedan might be a hybrid one, mixing con- it’s called the Camry ZR Hybrid. and presents all the obvious benefits of a Power: 160kW up, the car uses the instantaneous and five years to reveal what we now know as ventional petrol power with the added The new (US-built) Camry was a final- decently proportioned sedan, with plenty Torque: 221Nm continuous distribution of electric motor the second-generation car. Of course, it motive oomph of batteries for around- ist in the World Car of the Year Awards of leg, head and elbow room inside and a Fuel Consumption: 4.5L/100km torque to enhance handling and cornering had a lot to live up to. Back to numbers – it will cost you town work. Lots of space but not at the and cuts an impressive package. It’s built 524-litre boot. Price: $49,490 performance when the backroads get all expense of reasonable fuel economy. on an entirely new platform and is com- Who needs an SUV? twisty. On paper it might seem this would $400,000. MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE CROSS

Your first query – especially if you’ve not come across an Eclipse Cross in the metal SPECIFICATIONS yet – could be why this model has been Engine: 1.5-litre MIVEC introduced to Mitsubishi’s range when the ASX already exists? turbo petrol It’s not until you gauge the Eclipse Power: 112kW Cross in person that you can see it’s actu- Torque: 254Nm ally bigger than the carmaker’s crossover Fuel Consumption: 7.7L/100km although this new car is also something Price: $47,590 JAGUAR I-PACE you’d call a crossover, being smaller than the perennial Outlander SUV. Control and a surround-view camera But anyway, put the tape measure system. So, here we are. A car with a Jaguar Jaguar I-Pace has firmly in its sights – is And that is the I-Pace’s reason for being. away, because there is plenty to like here Actually, Mitsubishi has been generous badge on its bonnet and boot, taking on phenomenal in a straight line. Show it a Well, and taking kids to school and the – and plenty of choice too; two different with the specification; there is lots of an upstart like Tesla; the company which corner, however, and things don’t proceed dog to the beach. I didn’t do those things grades (XLS and VRX) and either front- or chrome detailing, 18” alloys and privacy has revolutionised transport for an quite as seamlessly. specifically but, with available space in all-wheel drive. glass as standard. There is even a dual- exclusive few – a little bit the way Jaguar Conversely, Jaguar encouraged media Jaguar’s most unconventional model The Eclipse Cross breaks from the opening sunroof flooding the cabin with has strived to do for nine-tenths of its attending the I-Pace’s international press ever, completing these tasks are rest of the range, both in terms of looks light. history. launch to lap Portugal’s famed Portimão undoubtedly a given also. (heralding all-new design language) and All-wheel drive won’t be for everyone Space is short and there is much to Circuit, near Faro, in anger. The car If the rebirth of the electric vehicle equipment. Under the bonnet is an all-new but I’d certainly go for it, especially when cover, so I won’t beat about the proverbial. gripped. It turned in. It accelerated like – more than a century after its initial 1.5-litre MIVEC direct injection petrol turbo Mitsubishi’s Super All-Wheel Control The new I-Pace is extraordinary. nothing experienced before and braked as interpretation fell out of favour – is the engine matched with an eight-ratio CVT (S-AWC) system has proven so faultless. It’s an impressive car boasting the if everyone on board’s lives depended on it. most paradigm-shifting advent in the SPECIFICATIONS gearbox. In ‘normal’ mode the car is permanently roominess of a conventional SUV, the high- It translated what was happening under the history of the mass-produced passenger Inside, Mitsubishi has rolled out a new in four-wheel drive, although extra ‘snow’ tech infotainment-orientated attributes front wheels through the steering wheel car then, with mass-production in mind, Engine: Twin Permanent Magnet system for pairing your smartphone to the and ‘gravel’ modes help with traction of the best that Jaguar Land Rover has to with a precision no two-ton vehicle has the Jaguar I-Pace will be the most carefully- Electric screen on top of the dashboard, operated when there’s distinctly less of it on offer. offer (complexity issues with the Duo Pro any right to. watched new model in recent history. Power: 298kW through a Touchpad Commander system, The Eclipse Cross has been designed Touch screen system notwithstanding) In short it behaved like that most 21st It’s certainly Jaguar’s most important Torque: 696Nm a bit like Lexus’ similar set-up. The top- to bring new drivers into the brand, and and – here’s the important bit – the century of things: a performance SUV. model ever. Which isn’t bad going for a Fuel Consumption: NIL spec VRX gives you additional tech such Mitsubishi certainly seems keen to make drivability of a car built by car people. Except I didn’t emit one molecule of carbon company that once traded so heavily on Price: To be announced as a heads-up display, Adaptive Cruise sure it measures up. Tesla’s Model X – the vehicle the dioxide in experiencing all of this. its heritage value, and little else. 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