NZ Automotive Industry News

26th January 2022

HOT TOPIC

// Ford’s highly anticipated Bronco Raptor revealed as an off-roader’s dream

Despite the fact that Ford is struggling to keep up with demand for the revived Bronco off-roader, the recently-revealed Bronco Raptor is only set to become even more of a hit.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// ChargeNet reports record-breaking December

December was a record-breaking month for EV charging sessions across ChargeNet NZ’s network.

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HOT TOPIC

// Vehicle spending up $135m for quarter

Motor vehicle spending was up $135 million (27.8%) for the December 2021 quarter, according to Stats NZ.

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SPONSORED BY NEWCOAT

// A high margin product with ongoing revenue

Designed to be easily applied by your valets with minimal training required, plus you’ll get ongoing commissions from customers purchasing refill products online.

Newcoat is not just a paint coating system; it’s a total maintenance solution for all surfaces of the vehicle. Formulated from pure Silica Dioxide, it gives a crystal-clear layer, permanently bonded to the vehicle.

Best of all, there’s a 5+5 year warranty. If your customers can’t remove dirt or stains from the paint, fabric or leather, Newcoat will assist with professional advice and assistance up to a value of $1,500 per event.

BEST OF THE REST

// Renault signs strategic partnership with Geely

The new Renault Diamond logo The Zhejiang Geely Holding Group and the Renault Group have signed…

// Dongfeng E70 launched with solid-state battery

Fifty Dongfeng Fengshen (Aeolus) E70 demonstration EVs with solid-state lithium batteries have been delivered by the…

// Imported used car dealers reminded about ‘Feebate’ commencement

The professional body for the imported used vehicle industry, VIA, is reminding members and non-members that Clean Car discounts and penalties for light vehicles will commence on April 1, 2022.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Kia heralds ‘new era’

Kia NZ has released key specification details of the new, all-electric EV6 range with four variants.

// Electrification “chosen by politicians, not industry” says Stellantis boss

Stellantis’ comprehensive umbrella of manufacturers, ranging from Peugeot, Opel, and Fiat, to Dodge, Ram, and Jeep, represent some of the most active legacy marques on the market in terms of electrification.

// Electricarna postponed

New Plymouth’s big EV event, Electricarna 2022, initially scheduled for Sunday, February 27, has been postponed until later this year because of COVID red traffic light restrictions to help combat an Omicron outbreak.

// Keen for insurance priced according to how you drive?

The world of car insurance is in for an overhaul in more ways than one. The hardware in electric vehicles often requires specific repair programmes, which could impact the way insurers deal with them in the long run.

// China isn’t moving away from polluting cars fast enough

“There are nine million bicycles in Beijing, that’s a fact.” The opening lyrics to that 2005 hit song was a conservative estimate back then, and today millions of those bicycles have been replaced by planet-warming cars.

// Cute retro-neo CB300R freshened for MY22

The CB300R has been updated for 2022, now using 41mm Showa big piston forks up front, and cornering ABS brake control thanks to the addition of an inertial measurement unit (IMU).

ONE LINERS

HELPFUL RESOURCES

// Current National New Car Deals

Updated every Friday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials.

// Clean Car Calculator

Input vehicle make and/or model to calculate if the car will receive a rebate, fee or sits in the zero band (no change).

26th January 20222022-01-25T20:53:32+13:00

25th January 2022

HOT TOPIC

// Dealers don’t expect red light to slow them

The New Zealand-wide Omicron red traffic light system isn’t expected to make much difference to dealerships…

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY NEWCOAT

// A high margin product with ongoing revenue

Designed to be easily applied by your valets with minimal training required, plus you’ll get ongoing commissions from customers purchasing refill products online.

Newcoat is not just a paint coating system; it’s a total maintenance solution for all surfaces of the vehicle. Formulated from pure Silica Dioxide, it gives a crystal-clear layer, permanently bonded to the vehicle.

Best of all, there’s a 5+5 year warranty. If your customers can’t remove dirt or stains from the paint, fabric or leather, Newcoat will assist with professional advice and assistance up to a value of $1,500 per event.

BEST OF THE REST

// Shell gives us a glimpse at the future of EV charging

Shell gives us a glimpse at the future, after opening its first electric vehicle charging station in the UK recently.

// Model 3 recall likely?

An Australian recall affecting 7055 2017-2020 Tesla Model 3 and 2014-2020 Tesla Model S EVs for two separate faults may see New Zealand follow suit.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Hennessey Velociraptor revealed as an alternative to Ford’s upcoming Bronco Raptor

Considering that it’s one of Ford’s most iconic models to date, it should come as little surprise to hear that the revived Bronco is selling like hotcakes, and the wait times over in America are off the charts.

// Dealer convention rescheduled to June

The Australian Automotive Dealer Association has rescheduled its Convention and Expo to June 2nd and 3rd2022 at…

// Temporary H2 source for Chch mayoral contender’s Nexo

Remember our December story about Christchurch mayoral contender for 2022 Phil Mauger buying a Hyundai Nexo…

// Lamborghini begins its farewell to ICE

Prepare to say farewell to petrol-only power in Lamborghinis, as the company is saying that 2022 will be its last year selling ICE-only powered models as it ramps up electrification across its range.

ONE LINERS

HELPFUL RESOURCES

// Current National New Car Deals

Updated every Friday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials.

// Clean Car Calculator

Input vehicle make and/or model to calculate if the car will receive a rebate, fee or sits in the zero band (no change).

25th January 20222022-01-25T04:10:32+13:00

24th January 2022

HOT TOPIC

// Dealership defends online ad

A car dealership has hit out at people who want to be “nasty … and try and start arguments online” after it was found to have fallen foul of the Advertising Standards Code.

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HOT TOPIC

// Tesla driver charged after Autopilot fatality

A Tesla driver has reportedly just been charged with a felony after running a red light with Autopilot engaged and causing a fatal crash in 2019 near Los Angeles.The driver of the Tesla faces two counts of vehicular manslaughter.

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HOT TOPIC

// Suzuki NZ to stay but warns of big Clean Car price hikes

After it said it was assessing withdrawing from the local market, Suzuki New Zealand has confirmed it will be sticking around for the meantime, but it is still concerned about the incoming Clean Car Standard.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY NEWCOAT

// A high margin product with ongoing revenue

Designed to be easily applied by your valets with minimal training required, plus you’ll get ongoing commissions from customers purchasing refill products online.

Newcoat is not just a paint coating system; it’s a total maintenance solution for all surfaces of the vehicle. Formulated from pure Silica Dioxide, it gives a crystal-clear layer, permanently bonded to the vehicle.

Best of all, there’s a 5+5 year warranty. If your customers can’t remove dirt or stains from the paint, fabric or leather, Newcoat will assist with professional advice and assistance up to a value of $1,500 per event.

BEST OF THE REST

// Chinese F-150 Lightning competitor revealed on Twitter

Pictures of an all-electric ute allegedly created by Farizon the commercial vehicle brand which is owned by Chinese manufacturer Geely Holdings have been tweeted by journalist Greg Kable.

// Toyota production in Japan hit by parts crunch from Covid-19

The shortage of parts caused by the coronavirus pandemic is further denting production at Toyota, Japan’s top automaker.

// Spied: Ford Ranger Raptor spotted testing as reveal nears

The unveiling of Ford’s new Ranger was one of the biggest new-car events of 2021 in this part of the world. And that’s set to continue in 2022 with the upcoming debut of the Ranger Raptor performance flagship, as well as the arrival of a hybrid variant.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Go black, never go back: Brabus unveils 800 Superblack beast

You’d think by now that the world would have had its quota of extreme, unhinged Mercedes-Benz G-Wagens. There have been plenty issued over the years, some extracting even more power from the G 63’s eight, some with six wheels, some with neon paint.

// Renault rips up Nissan alliance script for China traction

Renault’s chief executive officer is fed up with the carmaker’s moribund business in China and willing to rip up the script the company and its alliance partner Nissan forged years ago to turn things around.

// AA Buyer’s Guide: AEB moving onto must-have list

The Australian Government has announced that it will introduce an Australian Design Rule (ADR) mandating the fitment of Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) in light vehicles, with flow-on effects expected for New Zealand.

// Is MBIE doing enough on Enforcement? Convictions drop

Questions are being asked if government agencies are doing enough to enforce the Motor Vehicle Sales Act as conviction levels drop and complaints to an industry helpline rise.

// Z Energy reports lower retail fuel volumes, commercial transport steady

Z Energy is reporting reduced quarterly retail volumes as a result of COVID-19 lockdowns and increased…

// SUV scores five stars on safety

All 2.5-litre petrol variants of the Mitsubishi Outlander have been awarded a five-star safety rating after ANCAP praised the model’s “excellent safety package”.

// One of the first women in automotive design has died

MaryEllen Green Dohrs, one of the first women in automotive design, has passed away age 92. Dohrs graduated from Pratt Institute in New York and joined General Motors in 1950.

// GM expands market for hydrogen fuel cells beyond vehicles

General Motors is finding new markets for its hydrogen fuel cell systems, announcing that it will work with another company to build mobile electricity generators, electric vehicle charging stations, and power generators for military camps.

// Lamborghini working on off-road Huracan to match Porsche’s 911 Safari

Lamborghini is working on a high(er) riding Huracan, designed to do battle with Porsche’s upcoming 911 Safari. Called the Sterrato, we first saw it back in 2019 as a concept.

// Honda Civic hybrid could be a surprise 158kW firecracker

While interest in the next-generation Honda Civic Type R continues to be drummed up (spurred on most recently by an appearance at Tokyo Auto Salon), the imminent Civic hybrid e: HEV is likely to be the more important model for the company. According to the rumour mill, it’s also set to be a pretty quick little hatch.

ONE LINERS

HELPFUL RESOURCES

// Current National New Car Deals

Updated every Friday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials.

// Clean Car Calculator

Input vehicle make and/or model to calculate if the car will receive a rebate, fee or sits in the zero band (no change).

24th January 20222022-01-24T03:26:07+13:00

21st January 2022

HOT TOPIC

// Kia confirms NZ spec for much anticipated electric EV6

Kia New Zealand continues to drip-feed information about the fully electric EV6 ahead of its imminent local launch (first models are set to arrive at the beginning of Q2).

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Toyota adds more hybrid grades to best-selling RAV4 range

Toyota New Zealand is extending its RAV4 Hybrid range with the addition of the Adventure grade and an all-new XSE grade which has a higher level of fit-out than the GXL.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Introducing the Hyundai i20 N: The ultimate Corner Rascal

Introducing i20 N, Hyundai’s first light hot hatchback, and the third addition to the N Division. Namyang and Nürburgring-honed to deliver a ‘corner rascal’ flavour, i20 N has plenty of dynamic tricks in its repertoire.

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HOT TOPIC

// New rules drag for dealers

The Imported Motor Vehicle Industry Association (VIA) says sales of cars reliant on finance are taking much longer to complete since “impractical and impracticable” changes were made to credit laws.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY AUTOSURE

// Help your customers avoid expensive repair bills

Autosure mechanical breakdown insurance is available for petrol, diesel, hybrid and electric vehicles, and includes AA Roadservice Cover to give your customers peace of mind driving.

BEST OF THE REST

// ANCAP awards five-star safety rating to Mitsubishi Outlander

The Australasian New Car Assessment Programme (ANCAP Safety) has awarded a five-star safety rating the new Mitsubishi Outlander …

// Suzuki NZ says it’s here to stay, but fears rising costs

Earlier this week NZ Autocar covered Suzuki New Zealand’s submission to the government regarding the Land Transport Amendment Bill, and specifically the Clean Car Standard and its likely impact.

// Kia Niro hybrid to bring major change to air quality

Next-generation hybrid cars will automatically shut off their engines near schools to improve air quality for children. Kia is set to introduce “Green Zone” technology in its next-gen Niro range that automatically switches to battery power in pre-set locations, as well as areas saved by customers.

IN OTHER NEWS

// BYD partners with Nuro on electric autonomous delivery vehicle

Chinese automotive manufacturer BYD is partnering with US autonomous vehicle company Nuro to begin producing its…

// GM to broaden electrification using hydrogen

General Motors has announced new commercial applications of its Hydrotec fuel cell technology, including a mobile power generator (MPG) for EV fast charging.

// Feebate scheme draws near

The Imported Motor Vehicle Industry Association (VIA) is reminding members that the government’s feebate scheme for light vehicles is due to come into force from April 1.

// Automakers develop charging networks for greater EV cred

Frequent announcements of new electric vehicle model launches and multi-billion-dollar funding for electrification programmes have pushed automakers’ commitments to roll out charging networks out of the news.

// Bajaj set to build baby Triumph and Husky models

Things being the way they are in developed countries, it sometimes doesn’t make financial sense to build smaller bikes at home. That’s why BMW and KTM produce respective models like the G 310 R and Duke 200/390 offshore, with Indian partners.

// Mopar announces its at-home wall charger

Mopar has announced that it’s developed an at-home wall charger for EVs. It’s a Level 2 (240 volt) charger that can supply 7.7kW of power and charges roughly six times faster than a Level 1 charger.

// EV fleet grows by 54%

The number of new and used electric vehicles (EVs) in New Zealand was 37,156 at the end of 2021, an increase of 54.1 percent from the same stage a year earlier.

ONE LINERS

HELPFUL RESOURCES

// Current National New Car Deals

REMOVED THIS WEEK

AUDI

  • Earn 1,000 Airpoints Dollars with your new Audi Q5 40 TDI or Q7 45 TDI.

SUBARU

  • Subaru’s Six Star Six Year Warranty Offer

ADDED THIS WEEK

SUBARU

  • Guaranteed future value available with the new Subaru e-Boxer hybrids
  • Guaranteed future value available on Impreza

Updated every Friday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials.

// Clean Car Calculator

Input vehicle make and/or model to calculate if the car will receive a rebate, fee or sits in the zero band (no change).

21st January 20222022-01-21T20:45:10+13:00

20th January 2022

HOT TOPIC

// Open letter to minister on finance

The Financial Services Federation (FSF) has written an open letter to David Clark, Minister for Commerce and Consumer Affairs, and his officials outlining what it believes needs to be done to ensure amended finance laws work.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Concepts for electric future

Subaru Corporation and its motorsport subsidiary, Subaru Tecnica International (STI), have revealed two electric concept models at Tokyo Auto Salon.

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SPONSORED BY AUTOSURE

// Help your customers avoid expensive repair bills

Autosure mechanical breakdown insurance is available for petrol, diesel, hybrid and electric vehicles, and includes AA Roadservice Cover to give your customers peace of mind driving.

BEST OF THE REST

// Lotus developing EVs

The first performance SUV from Lotus, the Type 132, is due for its world premiere later this year and it will be followed by a four-door sports coupe (Type 133) and a smaller SUV (Type 134) in coming years, Lotus says.

// Honda thinks hydrogen combustion is unfeasible

Honda is pivoting toward a zero-emissions future, but its CEO isn’t convinced by rival Toyota’s efforts in making hydrogen combustion engines.

// Clean Car Scheme woes: Suzuki and Isuzu thinking of leaving NZ

The New Zealand government’s Clean Car Scheme has been the topic of debate recently, with some fearing the potential indirect consequences of the legislation.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Tuning company thinks it’s ‘fixed’ the BMW M3/M4 grille

Even though their initial unveiling took place well over a year ago, the car community continues to deliberate about BMW’s bold new grille design, best highlighted by the M3 and M4.The huge twin kidneys were somewhat inevitable.

// Electricarna shaping up for February 27

‘The Car Man’ aka Philip Brown will be back at Electricarna. New Plymouth’s big EV event…

// Hybrid gets blacked out

Mazda New Zealand has seen in the new year by updating the CX-30 range and adding the SP20 MHEV Blackout Edition to it.

// Rimac will develop its EV tech as a standalone company

Rimac has announced it will spin off its engineering division into a standalone entity called Rimac Technology to develop EV tech for the new Bugatti Rimac company as well as third-party manufacturers.

// Toyota expects to miss annual output goal on chip disruptions

Toyota said it is unlikely to reach its goal of manufacturing 9 million cars this fiscal year through March due to persistent chip shortages.

// NZ pricing and specs revealed for new Renault Arkana

Renault New Zealand had revealed the pricing and specifications for the new Arkana, which is set to hit NZ shores in 2022.

// Kia EV6 specs revealed ahead of second-quarter NZ launch

Kia has announced key specification details of the new, all-electric EV6 with the first examples of the new model arriving in New Zealand towards the beginning of the second quarter.

// Morgan’s newest model celebrates its biggest achievement

The 1962 24 Hours of Le Mans was won by Olivier Gendebien and Phil Hill in a Ferrari 330 TRI/LM. Ferraris dominated the final results, sweeping the podium.

// Call to keep inflation in check

Further pressure is being put on the Reserve Bank to continue to raise interest rates to keep inflation in check.

// Record year for new vehicle registrations

Rising demand for hybrid and electric vehicles helped drive a record number of new vehicle registrations last year.

ONE LINERS

HELPFUL RESOURCES

// Current National New Car Deals

Updated every Friday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials.

// Clean Car Calculator

Input vehicle make and/or model to calculate if the car will receive a rebate, fee or sits in the zero band (no change).

20th January 20222022-01-20T01:15:48+13:00

19th January 2022

HOT TOPIC

// Renault Arkana crossover coupe hits NZ, pricing confirmed

Renault’s latest crossover, the coupe-shaped Arkana, is set to roll out at the French firm’s dealerships around the country in the coming weeks, with the brand’s local arm confirming spec and pricing for the model overnight.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// EVs reach 37,156 in 2021

EVs recorded a huge surge in registrations during December.They achieved 37,156 – 1591 more than November’s 35,565, according to the Ministry of Transport’s newly released figures.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// STI goes electric: Subaru unveils plug-in performance concepts

After only revealing its first electric car late last year, Subaru appears keen to drive the message that it’s into plug-ins further into the ground, with the unveiling of not one but two electric concepts at Tokyo Auto Salon 2022.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY AUTOSURE

// Help your customers avoid expensive repair bills

Autosure mechanical breakdown insurance is available for petrol, diesel, hybrid and electric vehicles, and includes AA Roadservice Cover to give your customers peace of mind driving.

BEST OF THE REST

// Specs revealed for new Kia Niro hybrid

The Seoul Motor Show in November 2021 saw the unveiling of the second-generation Kia Niro, which was updated with quirky new looks.

// Vehicle finance approvals in decline

Dealers have seen approvals for vehicle loans plummet following the introduction of new regulations under the Credit Contract and Consumer Finance Act (CCCFA).

IN OTHER NEWS

// Ford unveils new Mondeo, and we can’t have it

Ford’s initially sombre announcement that it would be phasing out the once much loved Mondeo nameplate worldwide was quickly followed up by speculation that the badge would actually return for certain markets —

// SEA Electric welcomes new CFO

Global e-mobility technology company SEA Electric has appointed Phillip Tighe chief financial officer (CFO), effective immediately….

// Vehicle arrivals up 37% in 2021

Vehicle imports were up 37.4% year-on-year in 2021 with a total of 301,314 arrivals hitting the wharves over the 12 months compared to 219, 236 the year before.

// Tesla Model 3 LR gets computer upgrade

The Tesla Model 3 Long Range due for delivery in mid to late February gets a…

// BMW isn’t giving up on petrol engines just yet

As various car brands continue to announce plans to cease the development of new internal combustion engines, it’s been confirmed that BMW is doing the opposite.

// ECL enables Custom Fleet EV management

Energy and technology solutions company ECL Group has developed a commercial EV fleet management service via…

ONE LINERS

HELPFUL RESOURCES

// Current National New Car Deals

Updated every Friday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials.

// Clean Car Calculator

Input vehicle make and/or model to calculate if the car will receive a rebate, fee or sits in the zero band (no change).

19th January 20222022-01-18T22:35:03+13:00

18th January 2022

HOT TOPIC

// Toyota reveals epic GT3 Concept and an even hotter GR Yaris

Toyota has revealed a handful of new concepts at the Tokyo Auto Salon, and one should light a lot of fires in the bellies of sports car enthusiasts.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// VIA recommends fitting immobilisers to Toyota Aqua

The professional body for the imported used vehicle industry, VIA, is recommending that its dealer members…

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY AUTOSURE

// Help your customers avoid expensive repair bills

Autosure mechanical breakdown insurance is available for petrol, diesel, hybrid and electric vehicles, and includes AA Roadservice Cover to give your customers peace of mind driving.

BEST OF THE REST

// Toyota launches new import trade favourites in Japan

Beloved by the Kiwi used import trade since the first generation was launched in 2001, Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) launched its completely redesigned Noah and Voxy minivan range to the Japanese market on January 13.

// Suzuki “assessing withdrawal” from NZ over “nonsense” Clean Car Standard

The New Zealand Government’s Clean Car measures have been much debated by both motoring pundits and distributors alike, with some groups expressing fears of the legislation’s indirect consequences.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Subaru has built a 1000-horsepower electric weapon

Subaru arrived at the Tokyo Auto Salon last week with something rather special – a 1043hp (800kW) electric racer. Called the STI E-RA (Electric Record Attempt), the bonkers machine was developed as part of an in-house study looking into future technology for carbon-neutral racing.

// Ford records big financial gains, take subtle dig at EV rivals

Ford’s stock prices have been on the up for quite some time, motivated in part by the brand’s domination of its ‘big three’ American rivals and its progress with electric vehicles.

// Tesla inks deal to get key battery component outside China

Tesla is turning to Mozambique for a key component in its electric car batteries in what analysts believe is a first-of-its-kind deal designed to reduce its dependence on China for graphite.

// Study reveals hybrid cars are more likely to catch fire than petrol and EVs

A new study has found that hybrid cars are the most likely to catch fire, and EVs have the lowest risk.

// Chev Equinox EV may replace Bolt

General Motors unveiled the new 2024 Chevy Equinox EV around the 2022 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas in January, leaving some to ponder if it will replace the Chevy Bolt EV and Bolt EUV – the Bolt subject to battery issues.

ONE LINERS

HELPFUL RESOURCES

// Current National New Car Deals

Updated every Friday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials.

// Clean Car Calculator

Input vehicle make and/or model to calculate if the car will receive a rebate, fee or sits in the zero band (no change).

18th January 20222022-01-18T03:16:42+13:00

17th January 2022

HOT TOPIC

// Hot hatch gets hotter: Toyota reveals GRMN Yaris and GT3 Concept

Following teasers and buckets of speculation, Toyota has unveiled its new GRMN Yaris hotter hatch and a fascinating new GT3 Concept at Tokyo Auto Salon.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Top Suzuki dealership shatters previous sales record

Suzuki New Zealand says its top-selling dealership didn’t just break a milestone sales record in 2021, it completely shattered it.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY AUTOSURE

// Help your customers avoid expensive repair bills

Autosure mechanical breakdown insurance is available for petrol, diesel, hybrid and electric vehicles, and includes AA Roadservice Cover to give your customers peace of mind driving.

BEST OF THE REST

// Outlander extends marque’s success

Mitsubishi Motors New Zealand (MMNZ) has ended the long-running dominance of Toyota after its Outlander emerged as the country’s top-selling new passenger car in 2021.

// New Mazda CX-30 updates for 2022 include mild-hybrid option

Mazda has confirmed the CX-30 small SUV will be available with a mild-hybrid powertrain.

// Vehicle imports make big gains

There were 130,317 used cars imported into New Zealand during 2021, an increase of 19.9 percent when compared with 108,663 in 2020.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Citroen debuts facelifted C5 Aircross, confirms PHEV for NZ

Citroen has revealed the facelifted C5 Aircross, and the local arm has confirmed it will arrive in New Zealand later this year.

// Hyundai i20 N pricing confirmed for New Zealand

It’s set to be a big year for Hyundai New Zealand and its performance line-up, with the all-new i20 N and updated i30 N set to land on local shores.

// Clearing the air on exhaust ratings

An accurate gauge of emissions is a crucial determinant of the ‘ute tax’ impacting on April 1,

// Why an EV can make a good road trip great

Think of a road trip and you might think of a classic convertible. Top down in the hot summer sun on your way to the beach for a week.

// The Good Oil: Strange history and cool future of Polestar

Think car companies are slow to make the transition to zero-emissions products? Polestar has gone from high-octane racing specialist to maker of premium Electric Vehicles (EVs) in less than a decade.

// AA Buyer’s Guide: Stories behind cool car brands

For many of us, sitting behind the wheel of a car is just a daily commute to the office.

// Criminals target Aqua

Owners of a certain Toyota model have been warned that they are being targeted by thieves.

// Isuzu, Honda to test hydrogen-powered trucks on public roads

Isuzu Motors and Honda Motor plan to test a hydrogen fuel-cell truck on public roads in Japan this year, checking its performance on expressways and other roads.

// SUVs may have killed the Mercedes wagon Sad news, wagon-lovers.

Mercedes-Benz is reportedly looking to end the production of its traditional wagons to focus on SUVs by the end of the decade.

// Mazda adds new Blackout Edition to CX-30 range

It seems like just yesterday that Mazda’s local arm introduced the CX-30 — a swoopier, more low-slung SUV equivalent to the likes of the more traditionally shaped CX-3 and CX-5.

// Honda unveils more shapely HR-V for American market in renders

Almost a year ago, Honda revealed its new HR-V for the Japanese and European market, featuring minimalist, grown-up styling, petrol, and hybrid powertrains, and an upmarket cabin.

ONE LINERS

HELPFUL RESOURCES

// Current National New Car Deals

Updated every Friday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials.

// Clean Car Calculator

Input vehicle make and/or model to calculate if the car will receive a rebate, fee or sits in the zero band (no change).

17th January 20222022-01-16T22:32:23+13:00

14th January 2022

EDITOR’S PICKS

// Revealed: 2024 BMW M5 will be a plug-in hybrid

It seems as though the rumours were true. According to spy photos, BMW will be electrifying the next-generation M5.

// Video: Updated C5 Aircross with PHEV variant due this year

The new Citroen C5 Aircross SUV ”facelift” arriving in New Zealand around July 2022 will be followed by a new plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant from about September 2022, Auto Distributors NZ says.

// Mercedes rumoured to be culling wagons from its line-up

The humble station wagon silhouette has gone from family car icon to uncool body style for lame suburban ‘soccer moms’, to cool again in the motoring enthusiast community.

// Hankook showcases its airless tyre, which could prove perfect for self-driving vehicles

Hankook Tire & Technology showcased its non-pneumatic tire (NPT) ‘i-Flex’ in a joint entry with Hyundai Motor Company at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), which was held last week.

SPONSORED BY NEWCOAT

// A high margin product with ongoing revenue

Designed to be easily applied by your valets with minimal training required, plus you’ll get ongoing commissions from customers purchasing refill products online.

Newcoat is not just a paint coating system; it’s a total maintenance solution for all surfaces of the vehicle. Formulated from pure Silica Dioxide, it gives a crystal-clear layer, permanently bonded to the vehicle.

Best of all, there’s a 5+5 year warranty. If your customers can’t remove dirt or stains from the paint, fabric or leather, Newcoat will assist with professional advice and assistance up to a value of $1,500 per event.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Noble reveals the M500, a twin-turbo 550hp purist’s dream

Save for a little cameo in the latest Fast & Furious movie, there hasn’t been much news in the recent past regarding plucky British supercar marque Noble.

// Fuso takes top spot as NZ’s leading truck brand for 2021

Fuso New Zealand (FNZ) has taken the title of the country’s number one truck brand for the 2021 calendar year.

// Electric bus driven from Wellington to Auckland

JW Group general manager Jo Crickett is amped after successfully driving an electric bus from Wellington…

// Large SUV impresses safety experts

The new Toyota Land Cruiser 300 series has been awarded a five-star safety rating from ANCAP after impressing testers across all areas of assessment.

// Pomare leaving MTA to lead credit union

Motor Trade Association (MTA) chief executive Craig Pomare is leaving the organization on January 21, following an eight-year tenure with the organization.

// Porsche Taycan deliveries double

About 41,296 units of the all-electric Porsche Taycan were delivered globally last year – more than double the 2020 deliveries.

// From Vegas to NZ in months

The latest fully electric offering from BMW M has been unveiled in Las Vegas and is set to arrive in New Zealand from the middle of this year.

ONE LINERS

HELPFUL RESOURCES

// Current National New Car Deals

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HAVAL

  • JOLION PREMIUM FROM $26,990 SRRP INC GST + ORC
  • H6 PREMIUM FROM $32,990 SRRP INC GST + ORC
  • UTE CANNON-L 4X2 AUTO FROM $37,490 SRRP INC GST + ORC

JEEP

  • Free Jeep Tow Pack, worth up to $2000, when you purchase a brand-new Jeep Cherokee, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Wrangler or Jeep Gladiator

MAZDA

  • No Deposit, 2.9% Interest across full range
  • 1/3, 1/3, 1/3 across full range

NISSAN

  • 1% finance over 36 months with zero Deposit. Available on the entire Navara and SUV range.

VOLKSWAGON

  • Purchase a Grand California and receive a free 4-year service plan.

SUZUKI

  • S‑Cross PRESTIGE 2WD AUTO – SAVE $1,000
  • Limited edition SUZUKI VITARA SAFARI $28,690+ORC

ADDED RECENTLY

FIAT

  • Fiat 500 launch pricing $22,990 MSRP +ORC

HAVAL

  • JOLION PREMIUM FROM $27,990 SRRP INC GST + ORC
  • H6 PREMIUM FROM $33,990 SRRP INC GST + ORC
  • UTE CANNON-L 4X2 AUTO FROM $38,490 SRRP INC GST + ORC

HYUNDAI

  • Free service plan when you purchase an all-new Tucson

ISUZU

  • Isuzu D-Max 7.9% p.a. finance offer

JEEP

  • Jeep Gladiator 0% Finance, 1/3 1/3 1/3 offer

MAZDA

  • 4.9% interest and no deposit on any Mazda passenger car or SUV.

NISSAN

  • 1% finance over 36 months with zero Deposit. Available on the NAVARA SL DOUBLE CAB 4X4, NAVARA SL DOUBLE CAB 4X2 and X-TRAIL 4WD AUTO ST.

TOYOTA

  • $500 Prezzy Card with Toyota Certified vehicles

SUZUKI

  • $899 for a 3 Year Service Plan on any new Suzuki
  • RSX Special Edition (Yellow and Silver)

Updated every Friday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials.

// Clean Car Calculator

Input vehicle make and/or model to calculate if the car will receive a rebate, fee or sits in the zero band (no change).

14th January 20222022-01-13T22:25:52+13:00

13th January 2022

HOT TOPIC

// New Mitsubishi Vision Ralliart concept unveiled, and it’s basically a ramped up Outlander PHEV

A couple weeks after Mitsubishi teased us with its diffuser, the Vision Ralliart concept has officially been unveiled. Mitsubishi uses the slogan “The Next Era, The Next Adventure,” which could mean there’s more to come in terms of performance variants.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// New Toyota Land Cruiser scores 5-star ANCAP rating

One of the most anticipated SUVs of 2022, the Toyota Land Cruiser, has been given the top prize following a successful round of crash testing with ANCAP.

// More on this 

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Newcoat is not just a paint coating system; it’s a total maintenance solution for all surfaces of the vehicle. Formulated from pure Silica Dioxide, it gives a crystal-clear layer, permanently bonded to the vehicle.

Best of all, there’s a 5+5 year warranty. If your customers can’t remove dirt or stains from the paint, fabric or leather, Newcoat will assist with professional advice and assistance up to a value of $1,500 per event.

BEST OF THE REST

// Nissan rumoured to be bringing the Silvia back

Back in the late 20th century, Nissan had three primary sports cars at its disposal. There was Godzilla, the Skyline GT-R, the longstanding Zed car in the form of the 300ZX, and the affordable Silvia.

// V8-powered Ford Ranger Raptor R rumoured

After years and years only being offered with one powertrain option, with a second only landing a few years ago, the Ford Ranger could be available with as many as five different engines in coming years if rumours are anything to go by.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Polestar pushes global presence

Premium EV company Polestar met global sales target of 29,000 cars in 2021 (about 185% year-on-year growth), has expanded from 10 to 19 markets, doubled its retail footprint to 100 locations

// Maserati to contest Formula E next year

Maserati will debut in the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship in 2023.With motorsport in its genes, Maserati is the first Italian brand to compete in Formula E.

// Marketer shifts from Mini to BMW

BMW Australia has promoted Alex McLean to be its new general manager of BMW marketing following eight years of working on the company’s Mini brand.

// NZ toll roads ‘a waste of time’ and a triple hit: commentator

Another 20 years of tolls are ahead on three New Zealand roads which collect millions of dollars – though one car safety commentator says the charges are inefficient and effectively a triple hit.

// Watch: Check out this side by side crash test comparison of a Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler

The Ford Bronco recently scored relatively well in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) crash tests, but it didn’t quite earn a coveted safety award.

// How many people purchased a Rolls-Royce last year?

Rolls-Royce had a record year for sales in 2021, selling a whopping 5,586 vehicles worldwide. This is the highest number the British automakers have seen in it’s 117 year history, making a 49% increase in sales compared to 2020.

// Finally, a more affordable Bugatti! But there’s a catch

When you think of Bugatti, an electric scooter is probably the last thing that comes to mind. Nevertheless, in an odd move for the brand known for its luxury hypercars, Bugatti will be delivering its first electric scooter.

ONE LINERS

HELPFUL RESOURCES

// Current National New Car Deals

Updated every Friday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials.

// Clean Car Calculator

Input vehicle make and/or model to calculate if the car will receive a rebate, fee or sits in the zero band (no change).

13th January 20222022-01-13T03:23:19+13:00
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