2 wise men – and a Volkswagen California Ocean
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 such as 4MOTION all-wheel drive (AWD), adaptive cruise control, and an impressive 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating, they promise reliable and safe journeys. I could go on to say that […]
All-new Nissan Z NISMO review – so ‘kin good
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 with genuine performance upgrades. True to the Nismo badge, this isn’t simply a cosmetic overhaul; it’s an extensive upgrade to both the look and driving dynamics of a car that’s […]
Trucking planet saving – JAC EV N60 Truck review
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 its own right. The lineup offers variants like the N60 EV and N90 EV, with key differences in specifications, such as wheelbase length and gross vehicle weight (GVW) – I […]
All-new BMW 120 M-Sport hatch – not an M135 but still bloody good
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, and ready to impress, though it’s not without a couple of quirks. We recently got behind the wheel of the BMW 135 and it’s fair to say we haven’t stopped […]
Summer Adventures – Ranger Wildtrak X-tended Review
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 me. Aside from the predictable precipitation and this year’s high winds, I instead chose to stay local and head out on mini adventures – aided by the tried and tested […]
The 2025 Honda Civic SR e:HEV, NZ launch and first drive
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 11th generation+, the 2025 Honda Civic continues this legacy while introducing a bold, forward-looking approach to automotive design and technology, setting a new standard for compact hatch. We were invited […]
Track time in the 2025 Toyota GR Corolla, GR Yaris and GR 86 Hakone edition
Toyota’s roadgoing race cars, aka GR’s have been updated for 2025, and along with telling us all about them, they thought it would be best to let us test them out too. Racing around Hampton Downs Motorsport park in the latest GR’s – we couldn’t be happier. To recap, thanks to feedback from WRC drivers, […]
New Mercedes-AMG G63 – Apex on and off-road luxury
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 50 years of history, retaining its unmistakable boxy shape and rugged aesthetic while layering on luxury, performance, and a sprinkle of electrification for good measure. At first glance, the G-Wagon […]
A Year on the Tarmac, an overview of NZ Vehicle Reviews 2024
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, sizes, and fuel types. Whether it was zippy hatchbacks, eco-friendly EVs, rugged utes, or even some topless cruisers, we left no stone unturned. Along with our pick of Car’s of […]
Better all-rounder – BMW X3 20d review
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 with an emphasis on modernity, versatility, and a refined driving experience, the X3 20d strikes a perfect balance between practicality and premium appeal, catering to a wide range of lifestyles […]