Car reviews for Kiwis, by Kiwis. Driven in New Zealand.
There are moments in the automotive world when you realise the EV rulebook has been quietly shredded. When it comes to Porsche, the first time
If you’ve been paying attention to the sales charts, you’ll know that MG is no longer just a participant in NZ’s ever-changing automotive industry, they
It’s no secret that Chinese car manufacturers have found their stride. What started as value-focused offerings has rapidly evolved into a genuine challenge for the
A New Chapter in Compact VW SUVs – Volkswagen has officially unveiled the all-new T-Roc in NZ, marking a significant evolution for the brand’s entry-level
While seemingly not as EV focused as some other manufacturers, BMW still maintains a solid lineup with plug-in capability, from PHEVs (Plug in Hybrid Electric
It’s been 8 years since the last Q3 and the new model is now here but is it too good for its own good?
There’s no shortage of compact SUVs in New Zealand. In fact, manufacturers seem to be producing them faster than Auckland produces road cones. The challenge
From little acorns, giant oaks do grow. Such a saying could aptly describe the origins of AMG, the now iconic performance arm of Mercedes-Benz, though
For decades, Subaru has built its reputation on a simple formula: rugged capability, all-wheel-drive confidence and a willingness to take the road less travelled. Whether
Sure, when it comes to buying a new car (EV or Traditional), the offer of the latest technology, the longest range and the most futuristic
Relatability is a big thing for me. If an ultra-expensive, unobtanium supercar is parked beside a modified, barely-legal street hack, I already know which one
40 years and counting, the Nissan Navara is back for a new generation but is the range topper nice enough for today’s ute buyer?
Being a previous owner, there are few automotive names that stir up as much nostalgia as the Honda Prelude. For many enthusiasts (me included), the
Located in Lara, Victoria, just 26km north of Geelong is Ford’s You Yangs Proving Ground (YYPG). It’s a 900-hectare vehicle punishing, testing and development playground
To celebrate 50 years of Hilux in New Zealand, Toyota have launched a new generation and an EV but is it a lugger or a bugger?
The new Suzuki eVitara isn’t out to reinvent transport, it isn’t chasing Nürburgring lap times or pretending to be a luxury lounge on wheels. Instead,
Being invited to a world-first drive of a brand new Swedish EV in the Catalonia-land of Flamenco’s, Bull fighting, Tapas and Antoni Gaudí’s whimsical, nature-inspired
Being the new kid on the block, especially a highly contested one, is never easy. The New Zealand compact SUV market has become one of
The Amarok Style makes a statement return with V6 power but is it now a cut-price Aventura?
The family SUV market is busier than an Auckland motorway on a Friday afternoon, so standing out takes more than a fancy grille and a
There are some vehicles that arrive with presence, then there’s the Mercedes-Benz G450d. It doesn’t just arrive, it announces itself from three streets away with
There are some launch venues that immediately tell you what sort of vehicle you’re about to drive. Pulling into Kauri Bay for the New Zealand
The ute market in New Zealand finds a way to become more of an arms race each passing year. Bigger screens, more composed manners, increasingly
The BMW 420i Convertible is a tidy, driver-focused open-top that marries everyday practicality with the kind of crisp chassis feedback enthusiasts expect from the marque.
Chery’s Tiggo 7 ICE arrives as a measured, sensible addition to the range and a petrol option into the crowded compact-SUV segment. It’s a comfortably
The large PHEV SUV – or should it be PHESUV? – segment has been getting more attention lately, with more entrants trying to secure a
GAC’s flagship offering is here to shake up the luxury MPV scene but how does it stack up against the competition?
BMW’s iX has always been a polarising statement-piece, and the updated xDrive45 M Sport only amplifies that opinion: more power, more range, a subtle visual
Here at Tarmac Life, we go out of our way to bring you reviews. Case in point is the all-new Toyota RAV4 NZ launch and
The Forthing Taikon arrives in New Zealand with an unmistakable value-first proposition: a comprehensively specced medium SUV available as a long-range Super Hybrid and a
For years, the industry (and the public) have been talking about a certain event horizon where you could choose a size of car that works
Now in its seventh generation and officially an SUV, does the Subaru Outback still have the same appeal as before?
The Potenza Adrenalin RE005 is Bridgestone’s latest iteration of its long-running sport tyre family, and it’s clearly been developed with Australia and New Zealand drivers
If you’re after a seven-seat SUV that trades on presence, tech and a surprising amount of creature comforts without the premium price-tag, the Chery Tiggo
If you want a driver-focused electric sedan that feels more like a refined 4 Series than a radical handset-on-wheels, the BMW i4 eDrive40 is surely
The compact EV SUV segment is getting crowded fast, and standing out is becoming increasingly hard. The BYD Atto 2 takes a tried and true
We recently headed to Australia’s Capital, Canberra to test out the all-new, 5th Generation Nissan Navara. It was an extensive program both on and off
Following in the Enyaq’s footsteps is no easy feat but is the Elroq up to the task?
Leaning into the lifestyle, doubling down on the DNA When an automaker comes out with a new gen of an important model, it is their
The MG U9 is the Chinese brand’s first foray into the ute market, aimed squarely at younger buyers who want something bold, roomy and full
With such a strong presence in the Australasian new car market, it was inevitable MG would venture into other segments which many Kiwis, and Aussies
The Ford Mustang Mach-E GT has evolved into a electrified beast that’s redefining performance SUVs. Building on the Mustang legacy, this updated model amps up
If you’re hunting for an affordable electric SUV that punches way above its price tag, the DongFeng Vigo might just be your next garage mate.
Suzuki has officially entered the battery electric vehicle (BEV) space with the debut of the all-new e Vitara, unveiled in Wellington. Marking a significant milestone
I remember when the Enyaq was first released here in NZ. It was this big EV, that came as a first effort from Skoda, sporting
Volvo’s latest flagship has landed and it marks the start of something new for the fabled Swedish brand.
There is something quite niche about the Tourneo Courier, especially in a market like New Zealand. After spending time with the van version for our
Whether you regard yourself as a keen driver or not, having a unique understanding in how a modern car can behave in extreme situations is
With sleek sedan proportions, a technology-forward cabin, and performance credentials that brush up against established sport sedans, the 007 looks determined to make its mark
The Nissan Z returnz to my driveway… and honestly, I’m glad it did. Having a second stint with the Nissan Z NISMO revealed even more
Few cars can turn an ordinary drive into a mood‑lifting event quite like a MINI. Fewer still manage to combine that playful spirit with open‑air
The Chery Tiggo 9 has evidently arrived in New Zealand (and wider global markets) with a mission, to disrupt the family SUV scene by offering
The GAC AION V (pronounced ION-V), is one of New Zealand’s newest fully electric SUVs, yet the brand behind it is anything but new. GAC,
Coming out of a week with the Nissan X-Trail and straight into the new Pathfinder, this is not my first time climbing the ladder of
Nissan recently invited us to have a go at revisiting some of their lineup. And while of course having the incredible Z NISMO is always
DENZA shipped us out to South Australia for a preview of what’s to come from its house, centering around luxury off-roaders.
When a new automotive brand steps onto New Zealand soil, it rarely arrives quietly. But BAIC, known globally as a major force in Chinese automotive
The Ford Transit name has been woven into the fabric of trades, transport, and everyday life for decades, particularly in markets like the UK where
Late last year, Dongfeng officially launched itself in New Zealand, and ANCAP safety escapades aside, the Box offered a playful/feature rich alternative to the small
Subaru’s Outback has long been the unofficial adventure wagon of New Zealand, equally at home outside the local Four Square as it is halfway up
I might be an IT-working couch potato, but I also enjoy the occasional multi-day hike, as you might have seen from other posts I’ve written
When a car launch includes an Amazing Race–style treasure hunt on Waiheke Island, you know the brand wants to make a point, this car is
Let me begin this review with a ‘it’s not you, it’s me’ moment. You see, having a vehicle for a week is both a blessing
Cupra’s second ever EV is bigger and heavier than its first but does it still retain the brand’s signature sportiness?
The 2026 Audi RS3 Sedan arrives as one of the most compelling compact performance sedans on the market, a small car with a giant personality,
“GAC, what’s that?” Such a question became commonplace amongst those inquiring as to what car I had on test for the week. Well, GAC Motors
Having previously spent meaningful time behind the wheel of both sides of this Toyota-Subaru sports car coin, the Subaru BRZ tS and the Toyota GR86 Auto, I’ve had
The Geely Starray EM‑i arrives in New Zealand as one of the most intriguing entrants in the fast-growing “super hybrid” space—a category designed to deliver
Škoda New Zealand has kicked off a major new chapter in its electric future with the dual launch of the facelifted Enyaq and the all‑new
Plug‑in hybrids have long been pitched as the automotive world’s great compromise, just enough electric range to make your weekday errands guilt‑free, yet no fear
It has certainly been sometime since Toyota have given us a new Land Cruiser Prado. The last variant of the Prado dynasty, one which has
New Zealand might not exactly be the ideal market for luxury people movers, and I must admit that I knew very little about them, coming
Judging from the article’s title, you know that this write-up is more about passion than impartiality. Passion around what we like about cars, and how
If you’re in the market for a large SUV that blends premium luxury with serious off-road credentials, the GWM Tank 500 Hi4-T PHEV might just
The last couple of years marked a stark shift in our automotive landscape, with an onslaught of new brands and vehicles finding their way to
For those who want a Mercedes-Benz PHEV, the option of a GLA250e exists, but is it a compelling one?
MG’s newest fully electric SUV, the MG S5 EV has touched down in New Zealand. This all-new model appears highly promising on paper, particularly since
There’s something refreshingly honest about Leapmotor’s approach to electric vehicles. No grandiose promises, no revolutionary claims, just smart, well-executed SUVs that deliver exactly what they
The Geely Riddara RD6 is a ute that’s breaking new ground by combining traditional workhorse credentials with zero-emission performance. Now, having spent more quality time
The Omoda 9 arrives with audacious design cues borrowed from ultra-premium marques, a bewilderingly powerful hybrid powertrain, and equipment levels that embarrass established rivals. But
With Xmas looming and Season 1 of our TV Show wrapped up, we decided to do an Xmas special, taking to the road to celebrate
Chinese manufacturers are making bold moves into territories traditionally dominated by Japanese and European brands, in this case, the Jaecoo J7 SHS Super Hybrid, a
Reflecting on all new BMW models which arrived in our country this year—and that I had the chance to experience locally in 2025—I can confidently
The sun-drenched coastline of Spain provided the perfect backdrop for what BMW is calling “the beginning of a new era”, the unveiling and first drives
With a reputation to protect when it comes to wagons, is Audi’s first ever electric Avant a winner?
Five years into its modern incarnation, the Land Rover Defender (or just Defender) has become something of an automotive phenomenon in New Zealand, sales are
Built Ford Tough Gets Even Tougher When Ford slaps a “Super Duty” badge on anything, you know they mean business and it’s a promise that’s
The BMW X3 has demonstrated significant advancements within the mid-sized premium SUV segment over recent years. It has evolved into one of the segment’s most
If you’ve never heard of Dongfeng before, you’re not alone. The name doesn’t (yet) have the brand cachet of Toyota or Tesla in this part
MG’s HS range has been on something of an evolution sprint lately, with each model showcasing another step forward in the brand’s rapid-fire development cycle.
When it was unveiled in Munich, BMW said the iX3 Neue Klasse was the start of a new era, but now after a few days
Plug-in hybrids occupy an odd middle ground these days. Execution can vary wildly depending on how well the combustion and electric sides have been integrated,
Whichever way you swing it, you cannot deny just how prevalent plug-in hybrids are now. The concept provides a solid middle ground between zero emission
One can’t quite believe the current Land Rover Defender has been with us for half a decade already. The analogue icon was reimagined with bang-up
The Outlander paved the way for PHEVs, a legacy now under threat from cheaper alternatives, can it still hold its own in 2025?
MG has been on a steady upward curve for a while, and as someone that has driven pretty much every single car in their lineup,
The New Zealand new car market is getting another new jolt of electric excitement, but this time it’s coming from a familiar family. MG New
Mini’s hot new Countryman JCW might be the brand’s most characterful version yet.
When a brand offers a 7-seater SUV and claims to cover the family, commuting and weekend-escape duties in one package, it’s easy to be skeptical.
Not too long ago, I attended the launch and first drive of the new Volkswagen Tayron, and while there, my biggest takeaway was that VW
For the past year, Cupra New Zealand has been on a mission of refinement. Their goal, as they put it, was to rationalize their range,
The search for the perfect car often feels like a quest for a mythical creature. We want a vehicle that’s stylish but practical, thrilling to
Subaru’s sixth generation Forester is here, now as a proper hybrid and with symmetrical AWD, is it too good to be true?
It is always a great day when you’re coming back from a loan car pick up driving back an all wheel drive, turbocharged, manual, rally-inspired
Haval’s H6 seems to be going from strength to strength with the number of H6s traversing Kiwi city and suburban landscapes increasing at a considerable
If you missed our full event recap and brand context piece from yesterday (read it here), it covers Leapmotor’s refreshed ambitions for New Zealand, the
Few SUVs have a legacy as long and respected as the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, and while many rivals have grown sleeker and softer in
Retro styling and electric performance combine for one of the strangest automotive marriages, so does the ID.Buzz GTX make sense?
The race to electrify the ute as we have known it is well and truly on. While the concept of owning a plug-in hybrid “work
There’s an inherent paradox at the heart of the Rolls-Royce Black Badge Spectre. For over a century, the Spirit of Ecstasy has flown atop grilles
Few cars in today’s market make such an unapologetic case for driving fun as the Toyota GR86. The formula of the small, 2 door, rear
The third generation of Audi’s Kiwi best seller has some big shoes to fill, is it up to the task?
The hot hatchback formula is one that is dear to many a car enthusiast’s heart, with many different ways to approach the pint sized fun
Suzuki has a long and storied history of making exceptional small cars. Models like the Swift, Jimny, and Vitara are household names, celebrated for their
MG has had a bit of a glow-up, with a big round of updates to their cars. And one of those new kids, the revised
The automotive landscape is in a constant state of flux, and nowhere is that more apparent than in the sheer volume of new brands arriving
There are cars that you drive, and then there are cars that you experience. The latest Mercedes-AMG GT 63 is unequivocally the latter. It’s a
Mini have been on a bit of roll recently. A new Cooper, an all-new all-electric Aceman, and to top it off, a new Countryman. While
Let’s get one thing straight, the original Toyota GR Yaris was a giant thunderclap in a quiet sky of shopping carts. A rally-bred homologation special
A wagon body and an automatic gearbox, has the WRX become too mature?
In the fiercely competitive arena of the family-sized, three-row SUV, a new challenger from MG Motors has stepped into the ring. Meet the MG QS,
Since its debut in the late 1990s, the RX has been a cornerstone of Lexus’ global success. It gave the brand a solid foothold in
Growing up in good old Brazil, I think it’s fair to say that at any point I probably had more actual jaguars around me than
During the 1980s, Chrysler Corporation experienced a significant resurgence. Under the leadership of Chairman Lee Iaccoca—well known for his role at Ford Division and his
With all-electric versions of just about every aspect of their range, Mini is making no bones about a definite intention to be an all-electric brand.
The big Peugeot is rediscovering its quirky roots but does it have enough real world appeal?
There’s something exciting about stepping into a brand you’ve never driven before, especially when it carries as much heritage as Jaguar. The E-Pace was my
Chery is a name some Kiwis might remember. After an initial foray into the New Zealand market from 2011 to 2014, the brand departed, leaving
The Ford Everest has long been the darling of the school run and the weekend getaway, a capable and comfortable seven-seat SUV. But what if
It isn’t every day we get an entirely new model from Suzuki, so when we do, its kind of a big deal. The Swift, Ignis,
There are few nameplates in motoring that get the pulse racing quite like WRX. For Kiwis, the letters themselves conjure up gravel-strewn backroads, turbo whistle,
For more than three decades, the Kia Sportage has been parked in Kiwi driveways, carting kids to Saturday sport and hauling Bunnings runs like a
Marking a foray into new territory for Kia, they weren’t messing around when it came to the Tasman’s local unveiling!
Mahindra, the automotive giant from India, is a brand on the rise in New Zealand, and its latest offering, the XUV 3XO, is here to
Here comes Tarmac Life’s resident van guy — back behind the wheel of something that’s equal parts workhorse and show pony. The ID. Buzz Cargo
One could say I am a bit of a Mini fan. Back to the early days of inception from the notebook of Alec Issigonis, the
The mid-sized SUV segment has long been chock-full of choice but one which has managed to gain a firm foothold is the Subaru Forester. As
Nissan’s titan has one last hurrah in its V8 guise.
Affordable Innovation Meets Practical Efficiency As Chinese carmaker Chery strengthens its presence in New Zealand through its core brand and sub-brands Omoda and Jaecoo, two
Alright, I get it, okay? Some people just love to complain that EVs lack that extra edge of engagement and excitement and, while to a
NZ’s compact SUV market is buzzing, yet even so, the arrival of the all-new MG ZS is bound to make some serious waves. While the
The new Kia EV3 has been making some major waves. Women’s World Car of the Year, Red Dot “Best of the Best” Award winner and
BMW fans, rejoice, the wagon is back. For just the third time in the nameplate’s legendary history, the BMW M5 Touring makes a return. And
The automotive landscape is electrifying at a pace that’s hard to ignore, and GWM is pushing rising to the challenge. Enter the Haval H6 GT
The BYD SHARK 6 made waves when it first arrived, shaking a segment that is so important for Kiwis in a plugged-in way we had
“Diesel power. Oh, that is so much better.” That’s the sentiment that perfectly captures the arrival of the GWM Tank 300’s new diesel variant. For
People tend to wax lyrical about gold and silver, but not as many rave about copper. That’s a shame really because in the right context,
The adventurous Kiwi SUV Icon, (also known as the Forester) has arrived in New Zealand and to help celebrate, Subaru NZ and Australia invited us
Audi’s most powerful engine ever finds its home in the brand’s latest Nurburgring record holder.
When Mercedes-AMG unveiled the C63 plug-in hybrid, it was met with an awkward silence, followed by the distant sound of disapproval from fans and critics
The first-generation Skoda Kodiaq was certainly a strong seller for the Czech arm of the Volkswagen Group. Having been the recipient of numerous accolades from
The GWM Canon Alpha Ultra HEV is essentially a full-size statement of intent from Great Wall Motors. With the Chinese brand gunning for a slice
I used to joke with my friends that you could not kick a rock in Auckland without it hitting 4 first-get Model 3s, they were
It’s not often that a car manages to fly under the radar while also being one of the most complete offerings in its segment, but
GWM’s Cannon ute has made waves in the New Zealand market with its aggressive pricing and big-spec energy, and the base model proves you don’t
Wagons are cooler than SUVs. They just are. Before the sports SUV cemented itself as the go anywhere, anytime on any track tool they are
Funky Name, Functional Flair The name might raise eyebrows ‘Fronx?’ but Suzuki’s new compact crossover wears its badge with pride. Stylish, efficient, and well-equipped, the
There are few cars on sale today that evoke as much pure driving joy as the Mini, and fewer still that double down on that
Pickup trucks (okay, Utes) can sometimes be a thing of compromise: rugged or refined, capable or comfortable. But the RAM 1500 Limited poses the question “why
Somewhere between the classic Mini hatch and the Countryman sits a new breed: the Mini Aceman. But this isn’t just any Aceman, this is the
A dash of turbo transforms MG’s compact SUV into a confident urban cruiser It was only late last year that the second-generation MG ZS landed
BYD’s recent rise has been quiet and efficient, both literally and figuratively. With each new model, the brand shows an uncanny ability to learn fast,
In 1946, Dutch importer Ben Pon sketched a simple idea in his notebook, a commercial vehicle based on the Beetle. Four years later, the VW
Audi’s five cylinder hyper hatch has been reworked but is it still a charmer or living on borrowed time?
Honda’s crowd pleasing Civic Hybrid steps into a new generation but it’s been tasked with big shoes to fill.
Style, Substance, and Efficiency Combined The Hyundai Tucson has been a quiet achiever in the medium SUV market, but the 2025 Series II update, particularly
Electrifying the Ranger Ute Without Shocking the Purists The automotive world, bless its CO2-belching heart, has an emissions problem. The current darling solution? Electrification. But
Tesla’s Model Y has always been a lightning rod in the EV world—praised for its innovation, critiqued for its quirks, and endlessly debated among enthusiasts
It’s not every day that a car comes along and completely flips your expectations of a brand on its head. But the Lexus LBX Morizo
The Kia EV3 marks the brand’s smallest SUV footprint yet delivers an outsized electric range and a compelling package for those seeking practicality, efficiency, and
Seeing the words S5 and Avant side by side might be a novel concept, but I assure you I didn’t mistype. Audi recently reverted the
A Small SUV with big intentions In a segment bursting with options, Mahindra’s new XUV 3XO arrives as a bold and well-equipped contender. A facelifted
smart’s New Zealand range topper is also their quickest but is it their best?
Some cars impress with technology. Others with design. But every now and then, a car lands in your driveway that feels like the product of
There’s something special about the middle child. Maybe it’s the quiet confidence, maybe it’s the misunderstood charm, or maybe it’s the way they thrive when
Hybrid Family SUV Meets Tyre-Frying Performance You don’t often hear the words “family-friendly” and “high-performance hybrid SUV” in the same breath—but Mercedes-AMG clearly didn’t get
In the early days of this stint we are having at car electrification, some EVs made do with petrol specific platforms, just with batteries and
The Ford Mustang Dark Horse isn’t just another trim level — it’s the most serious street-legal performance Mustang with a 5.0-litre V8 ever produced. For
For the last few years, Kia has been making some electric waves, big ones too. Their EV family of, well, EVs have been making many
Within a year of its debut, the Lexus LBX, Lexus’ entrant into the vastly competitive premium compact crossover segment has been breathed on by the
BMW’s hottest 1-series hatch has flown under the radar somewhat lately. In a segment that is far more niche these days, BMW’s hot hatch is
In 2023, I had a very short drive on the Toyota GR86. I remember I had driven my MX-5 to that review, and when driving
They say moving a couch is equal parts strategy, strength, and a good dose of luck. But thanks to having the new Ford Transit Custom
Once the term “base model” was often associated with “no frills.” This is no longer the case with your average family car or daily runabout.
BYD has certainly made waves in the NZ’s EV world, now it’s aiming to stir up the ute market with its latest creation, the Shark
The Audi A3 has come a long way since its debut in 1996. Over the years, it has evolved from a three-door hatch to a
There is this running joke within my group of car friends because “I just like everything”. And yeah, that’s mostly true – be it an
There is no shortage of choice when it comes to the mid tier level of premium SUV. German manufacturers have been strong contenders in this
smart’s #1 gets the Brabus treatment but is it just badge engineering?
When it comes to utility and versatility, the JAC T9 ute and JAC N60 EV Truck boldly stake their claim as “JAC of all trades”
Singer David Gray said it best with his lyrics ‘Jumping Jesus, holy cow’ in his ‘Be Mine’ tune – and both the lyrics and the
What do you get when a brand crosses a tech-forward crossover SUV with a proper sense of maturity? It seems BYD was faced with this exact
The Audi Q6 e-tron is a bold new entry into the premium electric SUV market, representing a significant step in Audi’s electrification strategy. Built on
VW’s new Golf R is a cracking hot hatchback but is it too good?
The Skoda Octavia RS has long been a favourite for those who want a practical wagon with the heart of a performance car. With over
For over 80 years, Jeep has been synonymous with rugged capability and adventure, and the 2025 Jeep Wrangler continues to build on that legacy. As
The Ford Ranger has been New Zealand’s number one best seller for the past 10 years, and we were invited to Kauri Bay to help
Some cars really get under your skin for whatever reason. The Ferrari Dino 246 GT is such a car. While the legacy of Enzo Ferrari
New Zealand continues to punch above its weight in the global automotive market, and Audi’s latest offering, the all-new Audi S5, is set to further
The Lotus Emira is hands down one of the most exciting sports cars I have driven in recent times. The first time with an Emira
The 2025 Skoda Superb is here, and it’s not just a flashy facelift, it’s a full-blown flag bearer for the endangered species of wagons and
For me, when the Skoda Kodiaq was first released (several years ago now) it gave a whole new view of the brand and its products.
Kia has officially debuted its latest electric vehicle in NZ, the EV3, marking a significant step in making advanced EV technology more accessible to a
Few segments radiate with Kiwi new car buyers like Utes. Something to tow the boat, something for work, or something tough to transport your nearest
Be it intentionally or not, it seems I have become TarmacLife’s official van reviewer. While Matt’s out there with the new Golf R and Dave
Following the brand’s New Zealand launch, we get up close with smart’s #3 flagship.
When it comes to the term wicked, you can opt for the mischievous or ultra-cool meaning, however, when it comes to the new M3 Competition
The Premium Contender in the Seven-Seat SUV Market In an increasingly crowded SUV landscape, Mazda’s all-new CX-80 PHEV enters the scene with bold aspirations and
Growing up in my home country, I always associated pickup trucks with the countryside and hard work. Back there, they are workhorses, built for practicality
As many of you ‘hip’ readers will know, Six60 is a New Zealand pop rock band formed in Dunedin, Otago in 2008. They have amassed
The new Ford Mustang GT steps confidently into its seventh generation, upholding over 60 years of storied legacy while bringing modern flair to every corner
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class, an icon of on/off-road luxury since its inception in 1979, has added an extra string to its bow, electrification. And before you
Cupra’s trusty station wagon gets even more practical with electric power!
Described as “not just another EV brand”, we drive New Zealand’s smart range for the first time.
While deep underground celebrating the NZ launch of the Shark 6, BYD treated us to another delight, by pulling the silk off the all-new, all-electric,
Having recently tested the X3 20d, I assumed that the BMW X3 M50 would be that and then some, boy was I wrong. This buffed-up
For a brand that has been around for this long, I find it interesting how often I have to explain to people what Cupra is.
BYD has recently unveiled its highly anticipated Shark 6 ute in New Zealand, marking the company’s first venture into the utility vehicle segment. The all-new
Our long-term reviews of the Honda CR-V range culminated with the RS e:HEV.
Move over, traditionalists – BMW’s latest M5 is here to shock and awe, quite literally. This seventh-generation super sedan arrives with an electrifying twist that’s
Mazda certainly seem to have all their bases covered these days for those in the market for a premium feeling SUV. The current CX range
Admittedly it’s not exactly the case, but I can’t help but feel that the 1st generation Kodiaq was the start of the BIG change, and
I could tell you all about how the Volkswagen California Ocean (6.1) and the Grand California for that matter, are premium campervans. And with features
You join me after a rather electrifying week to close off the BMW Electric Mobility story! It’s been a busy week with many driven and
The Nissan Z Nismo is a bold evolution of the freshly revised, yet iconic Z platform, delivering a motorsport-inspired experience (NISsan-MOtorsport) that marries refined styling
The JAC EV Electric Light Truck is an advanced commercial vehicle tailored for environmental sustainability and functionality, however, it’s also a bloody good truck in
The revamped BMW 1 Series has strutted onto the world of premium hatchbacks like a well-dressed contestant at a high-stakes speed dating event, dynamic, high-tech,
It can sometimes seem that there is very little nuance when the topic is driving an EV. Some people are big fans and see ICE
Ahh, New Zealand Summers, a time of dodging rain and like sheep, following the rest of Auckland to Whitianga or the like. But not for
Since its debut in 1972, the Honda Civic has been a benchmark of reliability, innovation, and style, gaining an iconic status worldwide. Now in its
BYD have certainly been busy expanding their aquatic-themed automotive wildlife enclosure, something which has been achieved in a very, very short space of time. Along
We are going through a very interesting period for the auto industry. Some brands are trying to reinvent themselves, others trying to remain viable and,
Look who it is, if it isn’t Mr. MG coming for another review of the newest addition to their lineup! This time, we have the
With seven seats and AMG power, does this GLB deserve more bragging rights in the Mercedes range?
The hot hatch segment is one with a rabid legion of fans cultivated back in its golden era, and one that seems to have been
The Mercedes-AMG G63 is a masterclass in blending tradition with modern performance, all while making an unapologetic style statement. It’s an icon that spans almost
Here at Tarmac, we usually have our review cars for a few days, and sometimes we have to fast-track our impressions. So when we get
2024 was a busy year for the team at Tarmac Life. We essentially took the Kiwi motoring scene by storm, reviewing vehicles of all shapes,
One year on from its local launch, is the electrified Formentor still a compelling offering?
Electrified commuting comes in all shapes and sizes. And while there are brands out there trying to grasp this market with one form factor or
The new BMW X3 20d, part of the fourth generation of BMW’s X3 lineup, represents a sophisticated evolution of the brand’s mid-size SUV range. Designed
In the grand scale of things, 50km is barely a blip, however, should you find yourself running a 42.195km marathon or having to walk a
CR-V is back with turbo power and AWD traction but is it a step too far for the family favourite?
Not too long ago, I had a go at a KGM Rexton for a review, and it was a fun way to explore the big
MG is showing no signs of slowing down and the new HS SUV certainly is proof of that. With the previous generation HS offering plenty
On a bustling work day in Auckland New Zealand, LDV took centre stage, unveiling two exciting new vehicles ‘tailored to meet the demands of hard-working
The Kia EV5, Kia’s newest EV SUV, is a masterclass in blending family-friendly practicality, modern technology, and cutting-edge sustainability. It’s much more than a ‘smaller
Ahh the scent of exhaust fumes and vapes while being stuck in rush hour traffic. But what do I care, summer’s here, (albeit briefly) and
The hot hatchback category has always been synonymous with one name: the Volkswagen Golf GTI. Since its debut in 1974 (ok the GTI was in
The Volkswagen Tiguan is a vehicle so popular it has charmed its way into becoming one of New Zealand’s favorite family-friendly SUVs. And now, its
With ‘Black Friday’ being all the rage right now, lesser known (in NZ) car giant Mahindra has seized the opportunity to release their blacked-out XUV700.
‘A tradie ute at an apprenticeship price’. Earlier this year, JAC Motors introduced the T9 ute to international markets, where it has already made its
Not bragging, but the last time I was behind the wheel of a Mahindra Scorpio, I was tearing through Mahindra’s proving grounds in India, pushing
Honda’s popular crossover has undergone a complete transformation.
Step aside, un-unspec’d utes and say hello to the LDV T60 Traverse, a limited-edition truck that’s all about living life on the edge while still
Alright, so I can hear the sighs and imagine the rolling of eyes at the headline, and can only assume that it’s been used a
Since launch, the BYD Seal hasn’t shied away from leaving those of us in the specialist motoring press rather impressed. With its good looks, strong
Efficiency + Power is the mantra for the all-new MG ZS Hybrid+ and as we discovered at the NZ launch, it’s all that PLUS excellent
The Lexus LBX Morizo RR, is the rather ironically ‘amped-up’ version of the brand’s ‘introductory’ model the LBX. I say ironic as, although the trio
The 2025 Toyota Camry marks a significant milestone for one of the automotive world’s most recognizable nameplates. Now in its ninth generation, the Camry sports
NZ’s top-seller, the Ford Ranger, has added another string to their bow. It’s called the Tremor and it’s out to shake things up in the
Is the hyper-GT the logical next step for the brand?
Call it good luck, serendipity (or maybe a calculated manipulation), but my review date of the BYD Sealion 6 Dynamic FWD ’super hybrid’ coincided with
The Audi SQ7 has long been a standout in the full-size luxury SUV segment, and the latest iteration ups the ante with an attractive blend
What is this weird looking thing on Tarmac’s home page that doesn’t have four wheels, you might ask? Your eyes don’t deceive you, we have
Lotus’ sportscar gets a new powertrain but is it flawed or fantastic?
Alongside the hobbies I usually talk about (incessantly) here at TarmacLife, I have yet another one: gaming. And when playing a game that captivates me,
Looking back, the first MG3 was something of an anomaly in the marketplace. Sure, it wasn’t quite as polished around the edges as some of
As numbers in the Audi world begin to blur between the electric and internal combustion era, (odds-ICE/evens-EV) the Audi RS4 Competition Plus rolls in as
One simply can’t imagine the small car game without the Suzuki Swift. Such has been the appeal, it has held a firm foothold among its
The Golf is one of the definitive hatchbacks in the industry, so whenever a new one hits the roads, everyone pays attention. Volkswagen has recently
“For over a century, Ford has been cruising alongside South Africa on its thrilling journey, and we couldn’t be prouder to host the Ford Everest
Having already reviewed the Omoda C5 and its EV sibling the E5, you’d have thought that was it, but thankfully for us, the C5 has
Normally I’m not a fan of the middle-child, but I think (just like Goldilocks), when it comes to the Seal, BYD have nailed it with
SUV’s may very well be the thing right now, but thankfully, prestigious car-brand Mercedes-Benz haven’t forgotten the sedan. Meet the all-new Mercedes E-Class E300, a
I’m a sucker for small cars. They present brands with interesting challenges in terms of where to focus their efforts, how to work within the
When it comes to merging luxury with performance, few vehicles cross the divide like the 2024 Range Rover Sport D250 SE. This remarkable SUV embodies
When the New Zealand Police announced they would be adding the BMW i4 to their fleet, I was rather impressed. The Holden Commodore was very
Seeing VDub-le – Volkswagen NZ hosted an action-packed launch event that brought together not one but two pivotal model releases, the all-new 3rd generation Tiguan
Tall-riding hatchbacks, crossovers, SAVs… Call you what you may, there is no denying that this segment has received a lot of attention and improvement over
BYD is rapidly establishing itself as a key player in the currently-turbulent electric vehicle market. Their latest offering, the BYD Sealion, marks a significant step
What do you get when you cross a car everybody loves to hate with the demands of the people? You get the ‘new-to-us’ Toyota Prius.
When it comes to the electric vehicle (EV) market, the street is buzzing with opinions, especially in the SUV segment that’s rapidly gaining traction. We’ve
The Suzuki Jimny has been one of the most charming icons of the off-road world for many a moon. Its reputation as the “little off
The Land Cruiser is the longest running SUV nameplate in the automotive world. And while the modern 300 series has become a luxury offering with
When it comes to BMW‘s lineup, the X5 claims its crown as the brand’s most popular vehicle. This versatile SUV continues to dominate the market,
It was only a few weeks ago that we were slipping and sliding on the sodden grassy farmyard hills around Clevedon in the new Jaecoo
Since it was first launched in 1998 (1999 in NZ) the Hi-Rider Revolutionary Vehicle or HR-V has been a stalwart of Honda’s range. Known for
Just a few weeks ago, I had an interesting experience trying out two trim levels of a car for a few days each, back to
It’s hard to put into words what it’s like to drive a range of Audi performance vehicles, full throttle with the traction control off on
While the hubbub surrounding electric motoring may have diminished slightly, the BMW range still maintains a solid lineup of models which incorporate some form of
Introducing the latest addition to the Toyota Hilux lineup, the Hybrid. With a 7% fuel savings and a reduction of 7g of emissions from the
The Honda e. Probably one of the quirkiest Japanese EVs within the last decade. Despite not being offered new here, Honda’s first purely mass-market EV
The N sub-brand has been somewhat of a renaissance for Hyundai. By bringing a focus on raw enjoyment, they introduced models that quickly became benchmarks
Hot on the heels of the Omoda launch, Chery has now released their more adventurous brand, Jaecoo. The brand name is a derivative of German
With an epic rural ‘Clevedon’ background and the promise of an off-road experience drive, Chinese car brand Jaecoo (Jaeger/cool) invited us to their NZ launch
MG is a brand with a long history, and lots of it around small cars. So it is no surprise that the MG3 is an
If there is one all-electric SUV which has been grabbing the attention of motoring scribes and buyers alike, it has to be the Kia EV9.
Regardless of its polarising boxy new look, the fifth generation Hyundai Santa Fe is a remarkable blend of outdoor adventure and everyday practicality. To say
The latest iteration of the Discovery Sport (I don’t think we can call it Land Rover any more can we?) embodies a blend of rugged
The all-new Lexus LBX, the smallest SUV ever from Lexus, is out to introduce a new audience to the brand with its compact and urban-centric
It seems like just about every year we get a refreshed Mazda MX-5. This is certainly not a bad thing, as every time this happens,
This post is part II of my recent road trip through the North Island with the Volkswagen California. If you haven’t seen part I, it’s
The Mercedes-AMG C63 S, the brand’s performance luxury sedan, has taken a bold turn towards electrification, and horror of horrors has dropped 4-cylinders along the
With SUVs being all the range currently, does the luxury coupe still have its place in today’s world?
According to Kia NZ, the all-new EV5 is the perfect midsize electric SUV that Kiwi families have been waiting for, and to emphasise the point,
With an aggregated figure of almost 5 months living in campervans of all shapes and sizes, I think I can call myself an enthusiast of
It’s fair to say that Kiwi’s love SUVs, but it would appear that we love hybrids too (certainly more recently), so what happens when you
Make no mistake, the MG4 is one of the best value EVs out there. So those of us in the specialist motoring press took a
It’s nice when one has the oppourtunity to compare different spec levels of the same car. Such was the case with the new Toyota C-HR.
It was just some time ago that the longest running car make from Korea went through a bit of a rebranding exercise, introducing some new
It wasn’t that long ago that we tested the full range of the all-new VW Amarok, and with it winning our ‘large lifestyle car of
The LBX is Lexus’ newest and smallest car but the expectations are greater than ever.
There are some cars out there which really get under one’s skin. It can be difficult to describe to some extent, but all car buffs
The MG3 is an important car for the MG brand, and it has been one of the key pillars of the brand’s success in both
Sometime it’s great to really wind people up. For example, recently I was asked what car I was testing and I was able to respond
Admittedly, flying to Whanganui in a propeller-propelled, less than modern plane was not my initial thought of how we should be introduced to the all-new
The Toyota C-HR is a standout in the small SUV segment in more ways than one. What raised eyebrows when the first generation was launched
According to the Cambridge dictionary, ‘elitism – is the belief that some things are only for a few people who have special qualities or abilities’.
Kia has released an addition to their popular Sportage SUV range, well two actually. It’s the ‘HEV’ (Light and Earth) and not only does it
With its soft cushions, silent and luxurious surroundings and ultra smooth ride, you could be mistaken for believing that the cabin of the Mercedes-Benz EQS
The new Countryman has grown up and grown out of its Cooper roots!
To explain, in British slang, you can say ‘cor’ when you are surprised or impressed, it seems like it means the same in Korean too.
Several of my introductions to Omoda vehicle reviews have begun with explaining who in fact Omoda are. So rather than dwell on this, let me
Fur, Elephant, Leopard, Weddell and Hawaiian Monk are all breeds of Seal or Sea Lion. Now, there is a new bloodline of Seal whose habitat
It was not too long ago that Matthew and I were invited for the launch of the new Mini models. It was a great way
Make sure you buckle in because this Eletre takes off!
Given the long gap since my last encounter with a Triton ute, I was both keen and intrigued as to what this new, 6th generation
Lotus’ new hyper-SUV is an intriguing new release, eye catching and ultra desirable.
BMW New Zealand has stepped up its game in the fully electric sedan market with the introduction of the new i4 eDrive35. It may sit
Sometimes, being indecisive is a good thing. For example, when the offer of a new Mercedes-AMG GLC to review came with an SUV or Coupe
If the new EX30 is an introduction to Volvo’s new direction then bring it on!
It was a little over 6 months ago that I jumped behind the wheel of the boxy new iX1 xDrive30, BMW’s smallest X and it
Whether it’s one of seven or a straight out HOT one, Mercedes’ new GLE is sure to have a seat that fits. The (optional) seven
There has been a seemingly endless stream of fun being poked at BMW’s most powerful M-Sport creation, the XM SUV. From its polarising design to
With the automotive world embracing a more sustainable future, Fiat’s performance arm Abarth has joined the party and released their own take on electrification. It’s
I assume that the Star Wars fans out there will get the headline, but just as C-3PO was a humanoid robot, way more technologically advanced
In some of the more posher schools, although it may be across all levels of academia, there are certain students that act as role models
A short while ago, I attended the local launch of Toyota’s (almost) first all-electric vehicle (there was an electric RAV in ‘97 and again in
There are some cars that orbit your perception consistently, sometimes for no apparent reason, and the Jimmy has always been one of those for me.
Let’s face it, when it comes to rugged, off-roading American vehicles, Jeep is the goto name. It’s a brand that’s synonymous with the great outdoors
A wee while ago we attended the (long-awaited) local launch of Subaru’s all-electric Solterra. It’s impressive of course (or should that be imprezive because the
Now in its sixth generation, the new Subaru Impreza hatch comes fully loaded with category-leading spec while offering the confidence to ‘go-anywhere’ courtesy of the
It was only matter of time before Fiat gave us an all-electric 500. If any Italian city car/fashion item was to get the zero emission
Despite its obvious significance, the NZ launch of the all-electric Toyota bZ4X was less fanfare and more of an ‘ease into it’, which as it
Last month I was invited to a sneak peek of the Omoda E5 EV, (more details on that another time). While there, I discovered that
The BMW M5 has always been a vehicle with multiple personalities, seducing the elite with its executive charm while secretly harbouring a wild streak. Now
The new Lexus RX is quite a thing in terms of refinement and frugality. The fact this premium luxury SUV has been such a strong
The Ford Puma ST is a standout SUV that demands attention from the moment you set your eyes on it. The dual grill, reminiscent of
Last year was a big year for Lexus, with the combined New Zealand dealer network selling a record 1309 units, vastly eclipsing the previous 2022
The EQE is the executive model nameplate of the Mercedes-Benz, rapidly expanding all-electric EQ range. I recently reviewed the Sedan style of the EQE, however,
It’s not often that VW’s biggest SUV the Touareg is fettled with, and in fairness why would they. Originally launched in 2002, (and developed alongside
Forget about GIFs, emails and the like, for me, (growing up), Valentine’s Day is all about the anonymous cards. Sending soppy messages of undying love,
The Lexus RZ was a bit of a milestone when it was unveiled last year. The first all-electric offering from a brand which has always
Not only is the new Skoda Enyaq Coupe good looking, but it’s smart, good for the environment and is a great ‘go anywhere’ companion. Seriously,
With his Che Guevara posters and black beret, Wolfie Smith (from late 70s British Sitcom ‘Citizen Smith’), was a revolutionary that wanted ‘power to the
Don’t panic, I haven’t turned into a 1960’s tree-hugging hippie, however, it would appear that the Countryman version of the small car that arguably defined
When it comes to a daily driver, I don’t need something that launches from 0 to 100 in a fraction of a second or produces
There is no denying that the past few years were key in the “maturing” of the offerings in the electric vehicle landscape. We saw the
With their synchronous all-wheel drive system and go-anywhere attitude, Subaru vehicles have been a big hit with adventurous Kiwi’s for over 50-years. Last week, the
The “Super Grand Tourer” in a traditional sense usually conforms to the following criteria. A hefty front mounted power unit tucked away under a vast
With its compact size, ladder frame and go anywhere attitude, the Suzuki Jimny has been a symbol of freedom since the 1970’s. However, being restricted
With the NZ launch of the all-new, sixth generation Honda CR-V still fresh in my mind, Honda NZ thought it best I spent some more
Late last year, I attended the NZ launch of the next-generation Hyundai Kona, and to say it’s a big improvement over the incredibly popular outgoing
The questions were always the same. “What is that?” or “Where does that come from?” were the usual go-to for casual observers. I responded by
Nissan is a brand that will constantly come up when the topic is EVs – or is it just me? The influence of the Leaf
It was only a short while back that we got along to the NZ launch of the (long-anticipated) addition to Audi’s electric vehicle range, the
As you clever people are undoubtedly fully aware, the Suzuki S-Cross is positioned as the brand’s largest passenger car model, with room for all the
It came as no surprise when the news broke that Toyota planned to offer the iconic Corolla only as a hybrid. With a surge in
As you guys are probably well aware, there’s a new Santa Fe on its way (Hyundai NZ have yet to tell us exactly when), however,
Just in case you managed to avoid me talking about this, I’m a happy owner of a first gen BMW M2. It’s an awesome car
Arriving at a party first can be awkward at times. The social festivities don’t often quite get into full swing until a good chunk of
With one of our leading team members, Hazza, getting hitched to his beautiful bride, Julianna, in Tauranga, we took the opportunity to take the Opel
The Jeep Renegade is back. The smallest model from the brand famous for its back catalogue of off-road icons has returned and economy is the
The fully electric variant of the 8th generation BMW 5 series has arrived in NZ and it’s a cracker. It leans on the heritage and
The EV automotive landscape is rapidly changing in NZ, moving from small townie runabouts, to SUVs and even trucks and utes are popping up, however,
The all-new Lexus RZ is an all-electric model spawned from the RX nameplate. According to Lexus it stands for ‘Radiant Z-axis/Zero’ which signifies being both
The UX 300e, Lexus’ first all-electric model has been given a refresh, including more range and more safety, but as expected, it retains all its
As you probably already know BYD or build your dreams is a Chinese brand that as far as New Zealand goes is an all electric
Hyundai NZ have released the next generation of their very important and very versatile compact SUV, the Kona. It’s bigger, inside and out, has an
It was a little over a year ago that I was driving through the alpine roads of Slovenia in the new Nissan X-Trail. Aside from
As many of you may know, my son is an avid footballer, in fact, most of my reviews include me taking him and his sports
‘Look no hands!’ I exclaimed, as I let go of the steering wheel of the Ford Mustang Mach-E and rushed along the M4 motorway in
The term “bang for your buck” is a cliché which seems to pop up now again when it comes to consumer goods. I will admit
To me, late spring is the ideal time to have a convertible. It’s not too hot or cold, winter is behind you and the days
In maths, the square root of a number is the number that, when multiplied by itself, gives the original number. Conversely, when a number is
Hot on the heels of the New Zealand launch of the latest generation RX, Lexus felt we should get better acquainted with both their 350h
Citroën is a brand I have a soft spot for – their willingness to try ideas out of the beaten path is something I appreciate
If there is one brand which has made an impact within a short space of time in New Zealand, it has to be BYD. Its
If you’ve been reading my pieces for some time, you might have seen me defending PHEVs in a few occasions, saying I think they are
The EV6 Air has received a longer range option but is there more to love?
To me, Mercedes is all about choice, a big range of vehicles and multiple options within that category – however, with the new, second generation
My first taste of the Mercedes-AMG EQE 53 was at the Hampton Downs racetrack where I got to try out launch control and whizz around
There’s something to be said about a good work vehicle. They often get little attention, see heaps of hard work and have to deal with
You know when something is good, but you can’t help but think it lacks something that will make it even better? Maybe that curry needed
Evidently Mazda are making the most of the new large modular platform, not only has the premium car brand launched their all-new CX-60 on it,
I live in a house with a very narrow driveway that is not the most friendly to long or wide cars. So, after having a
Having attended the local launch of the first-ever Mazda CX-60 recently, needless to say I was as keen as mustard to spend more time with
It’s safe to say that given any glimpse of the orange thing in the sky, us Brits will look to bask in its smile-inducing warmth.
I can remember when Toyota first lifted the lid on the Toyota 86. We didn’t get it here until around 2012 but boy was there
Ford has added an X to the new Ranger Wildtrak but does it mark the treasure?
It is very hard for a carmaker to have a proper grip on the market without having competitive offerings in the work vehicle segment, and
Calling a front wheel drive electric SUV is a driver’s car might read like a stretch to some, but hang with me while I make
Despite it only being two years since the Toyota Yaris Cross went on sale in New Zealand (three internationally), it already feels like an aged
GMSV (GM Special Vehicles) has just released the latest 4th generation Chevrolet Silverado truck into the wilds of NZ, it’s been revamped, up-spec’d and (currently)
“Another Amarok write-up?”, you might be asking? That’s right! In a happy coincidence, Dave, Matt and myself each got the opportunity to try out one
Awright geezers n geezesses, forgive the intro but today I’m leveraging my British roots just like the brand behind the EV I’m reviewing. MG is
Cupra’s first EV is here but can it embody the same sporty spirit?
This month sees the 60th birthday of what is often regarded as the most famous car in the world, the Aston Martin DB5. Famous as
Can the Sports Tourer prove that wagons are still appealing or should it make like a washed up rocker and retire?
With a new GM at the helm (actually a returning familiar face), Audi New Zealand are on a mission, and as Greg Leet says, it
New Zealand’s lowest-emissions car brand (with ICE and EV’s) Opel, have added another vehicle to their expanding line-up. It’s called the Grandland SRi and it’s
Cupra’s new Formentor VZ Tribe Edition is a crossover that doesn’t run with the pack.
By now you would be fully aware (I hope) that there’s an all-new VW Amarok in New Zealand, what’s more, there are three models to
From New Zealand’s point of view, the BYD (Build Your Dreams) car brand has grown from zero to hero in the blink of an eye.
According to Chanelle McDonald, General Manager Volkswagen Passenger Vehicles New Zealand, their new ID range (commencing with the ID.4 and ID.5) is ‘pivotal for the
Dammit. I was going to start this review with the statement that the XC40 is Volvo’s first EV, but it would appear that the Swedish
Cupra’s new Leon V has the ingredients you want with an appealing spice level.
Hailing from England means that there are certain car brands that I have an immediate affinity with, and Mini would have to be up there
The famous VW truck returns but does its urban trim suit both town and country?
It’s been a while since premium car brand Mazda has launched a new nameplate, so the invite to an event to test out not one
(Not so) hot on the heels of the Levante which was launched in 2016, comes the all new Maserati Grecale. It’s slightly smaller than the
Six or seven seater SUVs have been gracing NZ roads for quite a while now, with their elevated ride height and all-wheel drive features (for
Heralded as a ‘game changer’ the all-new and all-electric MG4 has just touched down in New Zealand, however, just prior to its release we hopped
Look, out there on the road. Is it a new Mini? Is it a new restomod Beetle? Wait, it’s an Ora? That pretty much sums
‘You can’t always get what you want’ is how the song goes, but it would appear that you can if you want a charismatic compact
Subaru never attempts to play down its image as a brand with serious talent when venturing off the beaten path. Such is the case with
After having a bit of an OE break, the ever-popular Astra hatch is now back in NZ, only this time it comes with an Opel
Call me old-fashioned, but it wasn’t that long ago that a 2L engine produced 70 kW of power and 148 Nm of torque, well not
Premium car brand Audi have added an extra touch of electrification to their popular family-sized SUV, and revamped its quattro-ness too. We discover just how
To many raised eyebrows, Ford’s longest running and much loved nameplate, the Mustang, has been given a family-sized silhouette and an eco-friendly electric heart. But
As the owner of an EV with not a lot of range, I constantly find myself dealing with range anxiety and having to jump into
Its hard to believe the Nissan Qashqai has been with us for almost 20 years. This mainstay of the Nissan SUV lineup has been a
Not only is the Hyundai Ioniq 6 a triple award winner at the World car of the year awards (just like its 5 sibling) but
Fieldays is a popular agricultural annual event held in Hamilton. Not only is it filled with everything a farmer could want or dream of, but
Originally launched in 2016, the Mercedes-Benz GLC rapidly became the German luxury brand’s biggest selling SUV. Boasting over 2.6 million happy customers and topping category
Namaste. It’s plain to see that I’ve been brushing up on my Hindi recently and aside from learning how to say ‘hello’ and ask ‘how
For the first time in around six or seven years there is a brand new Alfa Romeo nameplate to play with and it’s called the
With the all-new Enyaq iV, Skoda has been welcomed into the ranks in pure electric vehicle production alongside their siblings from Volkswagen and Audi. It’s
The Toyota Corolla has been a crowd pleaser for the masses ever since it first rolled off the production line in 1966. To me it’s
In the realm of automotive exploration, where intrepid brands vie for supremacy, a new nameplate emerges from before, introducing the Subaru Crosstrek. Formerly known as
The fifth-generation Jeep Grand Cherokee is here and it’s grander than ever. It’s got a new chassis, smoother looks, a more refined drive and swifter
If you are one of those avid readers that will go to the end of our articles and read our bios, you might have seen
Spanish automotive brand Cupra has released its all-new and all-electric hatch, ‘Born’ and it’s finally arrived in NZ. The attractive, hardcore sports hatch has a
Soichiro Honda, the founder of Honda is famous for saying ‘if Honda doesn’t race then there is no Honda’ and that emphatic statement is the
As with the many of their nameplates as far back as the ‘60s, prestigious Italian automotive brand Maserati’s all-new Grecale is named after a famous
There is something rather special about driving around the deep dark south of New Zealand, the endless flowing curves, the unpredictable gradients and cambers, and
For some time, Toyota have been getting very cross with their own range. By “cross” of course I don’t mean seething with anger at their
Ford has taken their beloved Mustang and turned it into an electric pony (and when it comes to the GT), a pony on steroids! They
They say that ‘getting there is part of the adventure’, and if that’s true then Subaru’s new 2.4T GOOAT (Greatest Outback Of All Time) has
Many years ago, my parents used to have a small business that required the use of a work vehicle to get goods transported around town,
Into the great wide open, is a song by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. It’s the story of a guy named Eddie who moves to
The long-awaited and much-anticipated new VW Amarok has finally arrived on New Zealand shores and we couldn’t be happier. It’s bigger, bolder, more refined, better
Big, bold and beasty, are just a few of the words that can sum up the new, ‘refreshed’ X7, but it’s somehow elegant too. BMW’s
To me, the Suzuki Vitara has always been a fun in the sun kind of SUV. When I was much younger, it was a go
The Tesla Model Y is a modern, maybe even futuristic looking five (or 7 as an option?) seat SUV that has the ability to keep
We all have dreams, from playing football for England to owning a beachside bar in Key West (maybe that’s just mine), but to most of
With a new generation just around the corner, the F56 Mini Cooper is not exactly new to the market. It is, however, a funky little
Not only is there a new, larger addition to the Defender range, namely the 8-seater 130 but there’s also one with a V8 heart, and
The BMW 7-Series has essentially been the German premium automaker’s benchmark luxury nameplate from the moment it first rolled off the production line in ‘77.
Following on from the success of their iV plug-ins, Czech-originated car brand Skoda has crossed the great divide into all-electric propulsion with their all-new Enyaq,
The Corolla has been a stalwart of the Toyota family virtually from the moment they pushed go on the production line in 1966. It was
It was a mere decade or so ago (12-years in fact) when the all-electric Nissan Leaf first began production and it’s fair to say that
The Nissan Z started out life as a 6-cylinder, 2-seater sports coupe way back in the ‘70s. Six generations and half a century later there’s
According to Indian car maker Mahindra, they are on the rise. Not only have they changed their logo to a ‘twin peaks’, 3D identity, but
It’s fair to say that we’re all pretty impressed with the new GR Supra. It’s got the looks, the power and even the tech to
The launch of the new Land Rover 130 essentially completes the new family line up for the Defender nameplate, and where best to test out
I have to admit to mulling over the title of this review for quite some time (see, it’s not just thrown together), but I think
Lefevre (pronounced Le FEV) is one of the most common surnames in France, with fevre being as common as Smith and ironically Lefevre meaning blacksmith.
In local terms (and when I say local I mean in England), being gobsmacked is to be shocked and surprised beyond belief, or essentially the
Kia’’s compact SUV has been given substantial spruce-up for the 24MY, more refined on the outside and extremely spacious on the inside, it also comes
Like many of us, over the years the BMW X1 (the entry model into the world of BMW X) has grown in size, however, with
O Captain! my Captain! is a poem by Walt Whitman and featured in Dead Poets Society as a thank you to Robin Williams. However, it
With three generations already securely under its belt, the Nissan X-Trail has become one of (if not the) best selling SUVs in the world and
Call me old fashioned if you like, but I do prefer certain things a certain way. For example, music should tell a story (and be
Over recent years (thanks probably in a big part to certain areas of the motoring media), Honda has become somewhat synonymous with the more aged
Launched in 2017, the KAROQ was Skoda’s (Shkoda’s) second SUV (after the hugely successful Kodiaq) in their lineup. Despite its more urban/city focus it offered
It has to be said that when it comes to prestigious and desirable fashion houses, Australia ranks a lot lower than its European or Eastern
Confession time. Up until recently, I never really “got” the obsession some have with a Mazda-built Rotary engine. Sure, the promise of big turbo power
Not only does canny mean smart and shrewdness but from where I’m from it means pleasant and nice too – or in other words, the
Oddly, Idioms hold a huge amount of charm for me, not just the idiom themselves but their backstory too. Take ‘The bee’s knees’ for example.
The Mazda MX-30 is a fine car which ever way you look at it. However, what you could never accuse the standard MX-30 of being
With a cafe on virtually every corner and demands of a ‘double shot americano with almond mulk’ being commonplace, it’s plain to see that NZ
With its handsome and low/no emissions range, new (to NZ) car brand Opel has boldly set a course to both detoxify and modernise the look
Having already reviewed (and been impressed with) the all-new Mercedes-Benz C-Class sedan, to hear that they had extended the range (literally) with the addition of
Mercedes’ EQ alphabet continues to expand with the ‘quiet’ introduction of the all-electric B. I say quiet as it slipped into the NZ range without
With the Mercedes-EQ family already charging (pun intended) ahead, it seemed fitting that the premium-luxury brand should add their MPV to their ever-increasing all-electric brood.
When buying a five-seater SUV these days, potential buyers often ask the same question, “Is it a hybrid?” The desire to go hybrid or go
The phrase ‘clean airspace’ is an aeronautical term that essentially means having nothing close or impending around you, however, when it comes to Citroen it
Okay, so small hatches might not be the biggest segment in New Zealand but that’s where we often find some amazing cars that deserve more
It’s safe to say that when it comes to the Civic Type R, each new generation trumps the last by some considerable way, continually pushing
As the automotive world moves towards becoming electrically powered, ute-eating truck maker RAM has just released ‘the fastest, most powerful mass produced truck in the
Already synonymous with automotive safety, Swedish car brand Volvo is evidently now focussing much of its attention on sustainability. As they journey towards having 50%
The power rangers are essentially a group of teens with superhero abilities. When ‘morphed’ they wear brightly coloured suits and possess enhanced strength, durability and
I was last behind the wheel of the much improved MG ZS EV in late September while attending the New Zealand launch, and it’s fair
Renault’s newest SUV has gotten the R.S treatment and it’s flavoursome!
Albeit quite a while back now, I took the extended family on a road trip from Auckland to Tauranga and back (via the Coromandel) in
Let’s get one straight from the start, the last time I was behind the wheel of the new Peugeot 308 GT was a year ago
It really has been sometime since Maserati gave us a bespoke supercar. Decades in fact as it happens. While the MC12 hyper car launched in
Some would say that when you have one of the most capable and well-appointed 7-seater SUVs on the market that minimal improvements are needed when
Brand new, compact 2+2 seater, front-engined, rear wheel drive sportscars are becoming a rarity on NZ roads, especially ones with a manual gearbox, but the
Lets get to it straight away, the BYD ATTO 3 has been one of the biggest surprises of 2022. A premium feeling, practical all-electric SUV
The M or performance arm of German automaker BMW has just celebrated their half century of existence and what an amazing five decades it’s been.
The Hyundai Kona has made considerable in-roads into a very competitive market. The introduction of an EV variant has only helped sales, but its hefty
Spanish performance brand Cupra (you know, the one with the unique copper logo) has just added a new model to its Formentor line up in
Having recently reviewed the top of the line ‘Summit Reserve’ version of the all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee L you may have thought we’d have passed
It’s a new chapter for the Toyota Corolla, but is it the right one?
This year the Mazda CX-5 celebrated its 10th anniversary. Having been with us for a decade, it has managed to carve out its own niche
Volkswagen is going all out with their R performance editions in New Zealand. The Golf R has been with us for a long time, but
Hyundai adds another variant to the already extensive Kona range!
The last time we got behind the wheel of Mazda’s new BT-50 ute we headed out to the forest for a bit of rough and
SUV-come-coupes seem to all the rage at the moment. While we usually associate the likes of Mercedes and BMW with this niche market, its fair
Over the years, Lexus have been, little by little, moving the LX away from being less of a rebadged Toyota Land Cruiser, to a more
Savage and sustainable are words barely ever seen in the same sentence, yet they perfectly describe BMW’s latest addition to their M-Sport range. For not
Sometimes you experience a car which greatly exceeds your expectations. The new Volkswagen Tiguan R is one such car. Having been thoroughly impressed with the
In the automotive world, lower/no emissions and greater fuel economy are the name of the game right now, therefore plug-ins and BEV’s are undoubtedly on
Hyundai’s evergreen Tucson gets the hybrid treatment!
I must admit to being somewhat nonplussed about the BYD ATTO 3 prior to attending its recent NZ launch. After all, do we really need
The Volkswagen Golf R. With the exception of the GTi, for many, this is the ultimate Golf. Eight generations later, the R is still with
The previous generation Lexus NX was certainly a half-decent car. However, despite having a number of good points, in some ways it didn’t really feel
As a brand, car maker MG has seen a lot of changes over its ninety plus years, but its latest focus has it very charged
Howdy Partners. Many years ago, part of my driving career began behind the wheel of a compact panel van. The brand is irrelevant right now,
When Jeep NZ announced a while back that there was a new, bigger, more luxurious Grand Cherokee on its way we were more than intrigued.
South Island Ferrari customers and fans have been given a unique look at the new Ferrari 296 GTB at a special launch event in Christchurch.
“We really wanted to set out at the very beginning of the programme to make the vehicle really communicate its capability, perhaps a little more
With its compact size, design tweaks and mild-hybrid efficiency there’s a lot to like about Mazda’s CX-30 SP MHEV Blackout Edition, but could they have
The MG HS has now joined the plug-in electric fraternity. The mid-sized HS has already proved immensely popular with consumers, now the addition of a
Dignified Sophistication. This is how Lexus refers to the latest incarnation of its largest SUV, the LX. Now into its fourth generation, the LX is
Whatever you may think of SUVs styled to resemble coupes, you can’t deny that of all the avenues the SUV as we know it has
Much has been written about the new RAM 1500, hell I’ve done my fair share. With its new and advanced tech, huge towing capabilities, pop
According to Japanese automotive company Honda, CR-V stands for ‘Comfortable Runabout Vehicle’, however the acronym has also been referred to as Compact Recreational Vehicle, either
I find the older I get, the more appreciation I have for a leisurely and more relaxed way of driving. Sure, getting out onto a
Honda’s longest-standing nameplate the Civic has turned fifty and to help celebrate this epic achievement, Honda New Zealand has released a Mugen edition and we
Synchronous All-Wheel Drive, boxer engine and WRC heritage, it can only be a Subaru WRX, but does the latest ‘more connected’ model still have the
Admittedly, hooning down the autobahn in Germany at nigh-on 250km/h wasn’t exactly how I imagined I’d be reviewing Mini’s new trio of uniquely designed ‘go-karts’,
You can’t think of Mini without thinking of John Cooper. His aptitude turned the Mini from an automotive shopping basket to a rally and track
It’s the hatchback that can do it all, now there’s a new one!
With a sharpened exterior design, enhanced technical, safety and infotainment features and a refined interior, much has been done to VW’s ‘facelifted’ compact SUV, the
If there is one manufacturer’s performance arm which seems to be going from strength to strength, its Hyundai’s N-division. First the spicy i30 N, then
Adventure brand Jeep launched their first compact SUV or crossover around 2007 and although produced for a more civilised lifestyle, still came with the ability
Game Changer. How many times have you heard that? To me, it is a rather overused cliché, which nine times out of ten seldom accurately
I have to say, when the offer of the new BMW M240i Coupe came into my inbox, my pulse started racing, after all, I still
One can’t quite believe it has been eight years since Subaru lifted the lid on a new WRX. Perhaps more than any other model in
The bold new diamond is entering unchartered waters for Renault, so how does it fare?
Volkswagen has a racing history that spans back over half a century. Formula Vee or Formula Volkswagen is a popular low-cost, open wheel, single-seater junior
New Zealanders have been buying more of the Volvo XC40 compact luxury SUVs than anything else in the segment by a country mile for the
Every now and then, a car comes along that not only does what it says on the tin, but simply blows it out of the
Launched over 50 years ago and originally with a four-cylinder petrol engine, the Manta A (whose name was derived from the Manta Ray) was a
Compact hatchbacks, hot or otherwise are becoming increasingly rarer to spot on NZ roads and don’t get me started about manual gearboxes, so when a
In the world of comic book villains, Lex Luthor is a formidable foe. His supreme intellect, wealth and access to a barrage of technical weapons
The little Mini has grown up and been electrified along the way.
The old saying “they don’t make em like they used to” could perfectly sum up the BMW M3 E92. BMW had their work cut out
Every time one thinks of the Lotus Cortina, images of the legendary Jim Clark three wheeling around Brands Hatch on his way to win yet
Since launch about seven or so years ago, the Ghibli has worked wonders for Maserati, bringing in new buyers into the family of il Tridente.
With three generations and over twenty years of impressive sales to draw on, the release of the new fourth-generation Skoda Fabia ‘Monte Carlo’ was always
We heard that the new Lexus NX heralds fresh directions in exterior and interior design, hybrid powertrains, next generation multimedia and connectivity and the use
With more and more consumers feeling the bite of rising fuel costs, getting a hybrid makes more sense than ever. Toyota know this which is
Most of you would already be aware that when it comes to EVs, the battery weight is down low and therefore so is the centre
A couple of weeks ago we got a quick taste of Volkswagen New Zealand’s new PHEV Multivan. It boasts virtually all the features of its
The Mazda CX-30 has only been with us for two years, but already this midway step between the CX3 and CX5 has emerged as one
Doesn’t time fly when you enjoy yourself. Such is the case with the Lotus Elise. It seems like just yesterday when the pet project of
Toyota’s Hybrid family seems to be growing all the time. As part of the brand’s quest to bring down their overall carbon footprint, it seems
Having attended the NZ launch of the all-new Kia EV6 several weeks ago (and been more than impressed), I was keen to get some alone
I’m sure that to the majority of you, hearing that the new C3 Aircross is a comfortable ride will hardly come as a surprise, it
The BMW iX is BMW’s first attempt at a purpose built all electric SUV. It also promises a great deal, with BMW even going so
In 1996, premium automotive brand Lexus launched their largest and most expensive luxury SUV, the LX 450. This was followed by the second generation (LX470)
It’s been around a decade since the Mazda CX-5 was first released and what an impact it’s made. It was the first Mazda to showcase
New Zealand’s favourite PHEV the Outlander has upped its game again, with a 52% increase in pure EV range, 45% greater battery capacity and a
If there is one entrant into the mid-sized SUV segment which has raised its game in recent years, it has to be the Kia Sportage.
We all know someone that’s so charismatic that they can grab your (and others) attention the moment they arrive. For NZ roads, that attention-getter is
Whatever you may think of MG’s new car range under Chinese ownership, you can’t look past the fact that every single model offers some degree
When the Velar officially launched in 2017, this fourth model Range Rover brought with it additional glamour, modernity and elegance to the family – a
When I think of the ‘Spirit of Adventure’ it’s the three-masted barquentine tall ship located in Auckland’s downtown wharf that immediately comes to mind. However,
Volkswagen’s Tiguan Allspace R-Line is trying to combine 7 seats with sporty driving. Is that even possible?!
The Lexus ES300h has been something of a dark horse for the premium Japanese brand. For some time it has been in the shadow of
It was early 2019 when we last got behind the wheel of a Skoda Kodiaq RS. Covid hadn’t been invented and we were free to
When I attended school (on the odd occasion), the importance of the three Rs (Reading, wRiting and aRifmatic) was incessantly drilled into me and for
Few cars can charm the birds from the trees like the Fiat 500. The spiritual descendant from Dante Giacosa’s original Cinquecento masterpiece for the masses
‘Cheap as Chips’ is an idiom that best describes something that’s inexpensive and when it comes to chips/fries, rather tasty. Of course in NZ this
These days the luxury SUV market is huge. Countless manufacturers are all clambering to get a piece of the pie. However, in recent years we
Some say that life begins at 40, or was it 30? Or was it neither? Anyway, one could argue that for the Toyota Land Cruiser,
There’s a refreshed F-Type in town and to celebrate its significantly restyled face and upgraded tech, Jaguar New Zealand has put the top of the
It’s true that Hyundai NZ has an enviable range of high end vehicles. From compact hatch’s to large SUVs and EVs, their fleet hits the
The SUV segment is a crowded space, so can Toyota’s long running RAV4 still hold its own?
A couple of years ago, maybe a few now, VW launched their all new Kombi named the California and I (like many other NZ motoring
It has been in the pipeline for sometime, but Skoda has finally joined the ranks of the plug in hybrid fraternity. The PHEV family goes
The Corvette has been a stalwart of the American muscle car line up since, well forever. Well now those good ol’ boys in Bowling Green
It was only a matter of time before Lexus would give us an all-electric offering of some kind. The brand has been going all-out in
I took a trip to California to get a first taste of the new 5th generation Range Rover. The event got me behind the wheels
Ever since Lionel Martin contested the Aston Hill Climb in 1914 at the wheel of a car known simply as the “Coal Scuttle,” Aston Martin
When the first Porsche Panamera was launched back in 2010, I was certainly not sold on the looks. Its design cues in my view made
This incredible little car offers a fresh perspective on life. Here’s why you need one.
Lexus New Zealand have launched their latest generation NX and LX luxury SUVs online. While both models share plenty of new technology and safety features,
When Toyota announced their Highlander would incorporate some hybrid power into the line-up, it came as no surprise to those of us in the specialist
Audi launched their first-ever RS 3 in 2010 and with it allowed its customers a new opportunity to jump aboard the ultra desirable RS club.
Admittedly it’s been a while since I’ve been behind the wheel of a Subaru, but I have to say that the evolution and improvements they’ve
The very much anticipated Kia EV6 has landed in NZ and boy was it worth the wait. With a raft of silverware and awards already
You know those family reunions where you haven’t seen your older cousins for a while but when you do, so much has changed that they
When Toyota let it be known the Camry would now only be offered only as a hybrid, I couldn’t help but think of a certain
Tarmac TV
Newsletter
