Jeep-ish – Jeep Avenger BEV review
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 and for the likes of the Wrangler, conjures up images of surfboards and endless Californian summers. But what if you want an EV, live in the city, and have no […]
Adventurous EV – Subaru Solterra review
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 new Impreza was there too), but we wanted to take a closer look. Subaru NZ were happy to oblige. To recap, the Solterra is a battery electric vehicle (BEV) that […]
The Imprezive new Subaru Impreza
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 brand’s legendary synchronous all-wheel drive capability. For over 50 years, Subaru has consistently impressed adventurous kiwi drivers, and the Impreza is no exception. The nameplate first burst onto the scene […]
Easy rider – Toyota bZ4X first drive review
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 turns out, was exactly what the all-new BEV was all about – an exceptional driving experience that feels familiar and intuitive. “Modern Day launches are quite bizarre, compared to how […]
A la mode – Omoda C5 review
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 they also had their ICE-powered C5 available to test, so I immediately put my hand up. You can be forgiven for not knowing who or what Omoda is, so let […]
‘Dark’ Green exec machine – BMW i5 M60 xDrive
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 BMW 5 Series also comes with a greener outlook, but thankfully it’s just as dark. BMW’s electric vehicle involvement dates back to the ’70s, but this latest twist brings […]
Tame it ain’t – 2024 Ford Puma ST review
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 the ST design, not only looks impressive but also ensures optimal airflow to the exhilarating (albeit small) engine. With its performance splitter and larger headlights, the front exudes confidence and […]
EQE Glee – Mercedes-AMG EQE 53 SUV review
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, arguably rather confusingly, there’s also an SUV EQE too, so you can be damned sure I wanted to test that out as well. To add to my glee, not only […]
Facelift-R – 2024 VW Touareg first drive
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 the Q8, Bentayga and the Urus), the Touareg has sold over a million units and has become a key player in the brand’s impressive line-up. Well the 3rd generation is […]
SWALK – BYD Seal Performance review
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, wrapped in a pink envelope and then sealing it with a loving kiss – aka SWALK. Of course I’m far too old and jaded to do things like that, but […]