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 […]
5 Reasons why the New Suzuki Jimny is loved by Adventurers
Ever since it first hit the automotive landscape, the Suzuki Jimny has been turning heads, and the latest iteration is no exception. This compact 4×4 combines rugged reliability with modern flair, making it one of the most appealing SUVs in its class (even with its quirky flaws). Here are five reasons why the new Suzuki […]
A to B – Mercedes-Benz EQA 250+ & EQB 250+ review
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 similar distance to the petrol station because you’ve run out, I’m certain that 50km is a BIG deal. And 50km is the magical addition in range on the new Mercedes-Benz […]
Essence of Value – 2024 MG HS Essence Review
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 in terms of equipment for the price, it did still feel a tad rough around the edges. Enter the latest and vastly refreshed HS SUV. I was able to spend […]
LDV T60 Max Plus and Deliver 7 NZ launch and first drive
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 Kiwis’: the LDV T60 Max Plus and the Deliver 7. With a strong emphasis on blending performance, comfort, and cutting-edge technology, LDV is out to reinforce its commitment to innovation […]
The family EV – all-new Kia EV5 Review
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 EV9’, it channels its bigger sibling’s boxy aesthetic while offering a condensed and approachable package. But does it live up to the hype as ‘the EV families have been waiting […]