Classic Review: Mercedes-Benz C36 AMG: The OG AMG
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 you could hardly refer to the car featured here as a little acorn. AMG’s relationship with Mercedes-Benz can be traced back as far as the early 1970s when German engineers […]
Wait, an MG Ute? – 2026 MG U9 Explore Pro Review
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 for that matter, hold dear. The Ute for instance. While the idea of an MG badge adorning the front of a vehicle capable of towing more than three tonnes, sauntering […]
Superb Safety at Speed – Miles Skoda Track Showcase 2026
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 often key to developing better driving habits. The best place for this kind of education is without doubt a racing circuit where drivers can effectively learn to use the safety […]
First Impressions Matter – GAC AION V Luxury Review
“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 is the fifth largest vehicle manufacturer in China and after a national launch, with much fanfare, the GAC range has landed in Canterbury as part of the Miles Group. With […]
Proudly Prado – Toyota Land Cruiser Prado Adventure Hybrid Review
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 gone down as one of the most rugged and popular nameplates in the Toyota back catalogue, was released in 2009. Fast forward to 15 and a bit years later, the […]
Practical Powerhouse – 2025 BMW M5 Touring Review
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 say it has been quite an enjoyable year. However, has the best been saved for last in the form of the eagerly awaited and much hyped wagon variant of the […]
Xtra Value X3? – BMW X3 20 xDrive M Sport Review
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 well-rounded options, excelling in drivability, technological integration, and ergonomic design. Having experienced the fourth generation X3 30e xDrive PHEV variant just recently, and having come rather impressed all around, it […]
PHEV BMW FTW? – BMW X3 30e xDrive PHEV Review
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 silent running and internal combustion with the ICE unit coming to play when needed to generate power for the batteries. BMW is certainly no stranger to this with most of […]
Return to Defender – Land Rover Defender 110 D300 SE Review
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 to date off road technology and the latest infotainment toys and refinement. With numerous appearances in recent pop culture and its penchant for occupying the driveways of many who can […]
Age of Ultra – 2025 Haval H6 Ultra PHEV 2WD Review
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 rate. Now we have a new H6 complete with a plug-in-hybrid powertrain. It also looks poised to be the best packaged H6 yet with some added fuel frugality to complement […]