Morizo’s Machine – Lexus LBX Morizo RR Review

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 company’s “go-faster” boffins to give us the LBX Morizo RR. The name Morizo is a reference to the racing nickname given to chairman Akio Toyoda, “Master Driver Morizo,” and the […]
M-powering the 1 – BMW M135 xDrive Review

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 now into its fourth generation courtesy of the recently released new 120 Hatch. Naturally, a full-fat performance hatch from BMW’s M division was to be expected and now it’s here. […]
Turns out second time’s the charm – Subaru BRZ tS Review

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 the 86 I got too fixated on the things that my small convertible exceeded. In the end, I liked it, but maybe not to the level I had built it […]
A Moving Experience with the New Ford Transit

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 by my side, it’s not just a move – it’s a moving experience. Freshly equipped with cutting-edge features, generous cargo space, and customer-inspired innovations, the Transit morphs the chaotic chore […]
Crank up the Base – BMW 120 Hatch Review

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. These days even the most entry level of base models come stocked with so many features, some of which were usually only the preserve for something costing three or four […]
BYD Shark 6 Review – A Plug-In Predator with Urban Charm and Rural Bite

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 6. This plug-in hybrid utility vehicle is a bold attempt to blend electric efficiency with semi-rugged versatility, and much like its namesake, it’s making people sit up and take notice […]
2025 Audi A3 Facelift review – Sporty, Style and Substance

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 full range of variants including the A3, S3, RS3, and various powertrains. The 2025 fourth-generation A3 facelift carries the torch forward with a sharper design, upgraded tech, and a more […]
Schooled in Efficiency – Kia Carnival Hybrid Review

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 ICE manual sports car or an EV SUV, I just like when a product is well suited to its intended purpose. So it should come with the territory that even […]
May the Fourth Be With You – BMW X3 20d xDrive Review

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 scene for the last 20 years and one such offering came courtesy of BMW, the X3. The X3 has been strong seller for the brand and now into its fourth […]
Version Two: 2025 smart #1 Brabus Review

smart’s #1 gets the Brabus treatment but is it just badge engineering?