Mitsu hits backMitsu hits backIT’S SHOW TIME!

Ralliart rekindles fl ame for the 380, despite fresh doubts over its future

AURION SPORTS CONCEPT

THE HUMMER IS HERE

FPV’S NEW FORCE

21 PAGES - ALL THE NEWS

By NEIL McDONALD

MITSUBISHI made a crucial counter-attack to

its Australian large-car manufacturing rivals this

morning at the Australian International Motor

Show with its supercharged Team Mitsubishi

Ralliart 380.

Still fending off speculation this week that its

manufacturing future in Australia is in doubt, and

having been forced in recent months to contend

with the arrival of the Toyota Aurion, Holden VE

Commodore and Ford BFII Falcon, Mitsubishi

turned the attention of the crowd at the Darling

Harbour Exhibition Centre back to the 380.

Although described as a concept for now, the

Team Mitsubishi Ralliart 380 looks set to become

– at the very least – a low-volume production

model that could be the new torchbearer for

Mitsubishi’s struggling Australian-built car.

For more than six months the TMR 380 was

buried in the Melbourne skunkworks at Team

Mitsubishi Ralliart, where the project group led by

former V8 guru Alan Heaphy took the VRX-based

variant to new heights.

And the result is stunning.

Combining a Sprintex supercharger with the

3.8-litre V6 has increased power to 230kW at

5250rpm and torque to an arm-wrenching 442Nm

at 4000rpm, slashing the 0-100km/h acceleration

benchmark for the sedan to a mere 6.0 seconds. The

quarter mile is consumed in just 14.0 seconds.

This might not be the stuff that suits an Evo

badge. But Ralliart? You bet.

“If you look at the brand strata, the Evolution is

the pinnacle and at this stage there will probably

only be Pajero and Lancer as Evolution models,”

Mitsubishi Australia spokesperson Kevin Taylor

told GoAuto.

“But underneath that you’ll have a performance

range, branded Ralliart, which will be required

to give signifi cant performance improvements in

engine, handling and braking to be able to wear

the Ralliart badge.

“Looking at the specs for the TRM 380 I would

say it meets all those criteria.”

Mr Taylor said a low-volume run would be

simple enough to integrate into the production line

given the 380’s low build rate in Adelaide.Continued next page

October 26, 2006

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OCTOBER 26, 2006 Page 2

Mitsu Mitsu hits backhits back

Contact Peter Thatcher +61 3 9349 3062 pthatcher@auto-it.com.au

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Continued from previous page

“In the case of the TMR, some of it may be

production line and some of it would be off-line

but the lower line speed and fl exibility in the

plant means we are able to do more than what

some other people may be able to,” he said.

Most importantly, its role as a much-needed

Aussie-built hero car for Mitsubishi cannot be

underestimated.

“The majority of people who buy a car will

want to be associated with a brand that’s exciting

and aspirational,” Mr Taylor said. “So cars like

the TMR are halo cars for the product line but also

for the overall brand. They help make Mitsubishi

exciting as a brand and make people want to put

Mitsubishi on their shopping lists.”

Working with WA-based Sprintex

Superchargers, TMR has used a patented

Sprintex S3/335 twin-screw

helical design supercharger,

which delivers 0.45bar of

pressure. Together with a

larger air-inlet system and dual

exhausts, the supercharger

increases the Japanese-built

V6’s power/torque 31/29 per

cent respectively over the

current output, which is 175kW

at 5250rpm and 343Nm at

4000rpm.

Enhancing the ride and

handling are Koni 8211 series

coil-over dampers, with adjustable bump

and rebound settings, and 65mm diameter

springs with beefi er front and rear spring rates.

Adjustable spring seats allow for the vehicle

to be set at the correct corner weights and ride

height, the latter being 50mm lower than the

production car.

The same front brake package is adopted as

used on the TMR 220 Evo. Unique six-piston

TMR-developed front callipers clamp 2550

Ferodo performance brake pads on to larger

and thicker brake rotors which measure 343mm

x 32mm. Rear brakes comprise Brembo four-

piston callipers working with 302mm x 18mm

ventilated one-piece rotors.

The car is shod with 19-inch Goodyear

Eagle F1 GS-D3, 235/40R19 tyres and fi ve-

spoke chrome-fi nished ROH alloy wheels.

Other exterior enhancements include the

addition of a full bodykit that has side skirts,

upper and lower grilles and twin bonnet scoops.

The new rear bumper has been styled to suit the

dual exhaust system while the rear spoiler has

increased in size for more downforce at speed.

TMR sport-spec rear-vision mirrors have been

lifted from the Lancer Evolution racecars.

The car is painted in

Mitsubishi Motor Sports rally

team red – Ralliart Red – with

Stealth Black grilles.

Inside, a theme of “black

ice” is complemented by

mock carbon fi bre around

the gearshift. There are also

body-hugging electric Recaro

front seats from the Evo IX,

re-trimmed with red leather

fl ashes. The rear seats have been

re-trimmed and re-bolstered.

As well as the TMR 380, Alan Heaphy’s

crew has given the Lancer Evo IX a makeover,

changing the exhaust and boost curve, and

optimising the engine management system to

give more power. Cosmetic enhancements also

give the Evo IX a more aggressive look.

Also unveiled in Sydney this morning was

the new Outlander and Pajero SUVs, the Colt

Ralliart and Cabrio, and the Dakar rally car

direct from Paris. - with TERRY MARTIN380 PLATINUM EDITION: CLICK HERE

Phoenix rises (again)THERE was renewed speculation this week that Mitsubishi is preparing to close its Australian car manufacturing operations following an ABC television report which specifi ed closure dates contained in a draft document titled “Project Phoenix”.

The ABC reported on Tuesday night that the document sets out three possible closure dates for Mitsubishi’s Tonsley Park assembly plant in Adelaide: February or October 2007 or March 2008. The document is reportedly stamped confi dential, is dated September 6, 2006, and lists Mitsubishi Motors Australia Limited (MMAL) chief executive Rob McEniry as the project leader.

In response, Mitsubishi issued a statement late last night reaffi rming that it "has no plan to close its Tonsley Park plant".

“MMAL believes that the report that the ABC cites as its source is a management summary including recommendations contained in a feasibility study prepared by external consultancies. The summary appears to have been provided to the ABC by unknown parties without the authorisation or permission of MMAL,” the statement said.

“The recommendations contained in the study known as ‘Project Phoenix’ were rejected by MMAL management. MMAL regularly undertakes a wide range of studies, including the ‘Phoenix’ study, to determine the best long-term opportunities and future strategy for MMAL.

“MMAL has not denied that the ‘Project Phoenix’ study was undertaken. MMAL does deny that any decision has been made to cease manufacturing in Australia.”

- TERRY MARTIN

Produced by GoAuto Newsroom: Ph: (03) 9598 6477 PO Box 18, Sandringham VIC 3191 PUBLISHER: John Mellor

GoAutonewswww.mellor.net

OCTOBER 26, 2006 Page 3

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GoAutonews

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By MARTON PETTENDY

TOYOTA reckons Australia’s homegrown

sports sedan market has been the exclusive

domain of Holden and Ford for far too long,

and the Aurion Sports Concept is the fi rst

tangible evidence of how the nation’s top-

selling automotive brand plans to rectify that.

Revealed this morning at the Australian

International Motor Show in Sydney alongside

the Aurion sedan range, which also made

its Australian public debut before offi cially

tackling the Commodore and Falcon large-car

dominance in showrooms from next week, the

Toyota Style Australia-built Aurion show car

is a preview of the force-fed, Toyota Racing

Development-tuned Aurion performance

fl agship that will go on sale in the second

quarter of 2007.

Expected to appear in full production trim

next March at the Melbourne International

Motor Show, where Toyota this year debuted its

Aurion Sportivo sedan concept and revealed a

“design mould” of the TRD-developed Aurion,

the hottest version of Toyota’s fi rst legitimate

large sedan will be aimed directly at the likes

of Ford’s XR and Holden’s SS nameplates,

which comprise up to 30 per cent of Falcon

and Commodore sales.

Currently, Toyota’s twin-pronged Aurion

Sportivo variants are priced either side of $40,000

and aim directly at Commodore SV6 and Falcon

XR6, but the TRD-tuned Aurion should sell in

the same region as Holden’s Commodore SS V8

and Ford’s XR6 Turbo and XR8 V8 at around

$45,000 – below Toyota’s current Aurion Presara

luxury fl agship ($49,990).

Offi cially for now, however, TSA manager

of styling Paul Beranger stresses the Aurion

Sports Concept is nothing more than an exterior

styling exercise that presents “a vision for the

future styling direction of Toyota Australia’s

sports-car image.

“Many of the design cues are likely to

appear on production vehicles that go beyond

Aurion’s new sports range, the Sportivo SX6

and ZR6,” Mr Beranger said. “This sports

concept is just one example where we are

testing the market and encouraging feedback

from the public. The Aurion Sports Concept

is one possible solution, with styling themes

slanted heavily towards the sports car end of

our youth market.”

Unlike Mitsubishi, which revealed a similar

concept in the supercharged 380, Toyota

revealed no technical details of its upcoming

Aurion range-topper. In fact, the accompanying

press release stressed: “Toyota Australia is still

keeping under wraps many of its styling and

engineering plans for future models. However,

from a performance perspective a sports sedan

based on the Aurion could be expected to be

powered by a supercharged or turbocharged

version of an advanced Toyota engine.”

Continued next page

Toyota unveils a force-fed Aurion Sports Concept at the Sydney show

TRD Aurion risesTRD Aurion rises

EDITOR: Terry Martin MANAGING EDITOR: Marton Pettendy JOURNALISTS: Neil McDonald, Byron Mathioudakis, Tim Britten PRODUCTION: Chris Harris, Luc Britten

www.mellor.net

OCTOBER 26, 2006 Page 4

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GoAutonews

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Continued from previous page

Having already revealed pictures of TRD boss

Greg Gardner with a supercharged version of

Aurion’s 3.5-litre V6, early tests of which Toyota

Australia chairman emeritus John Conomos

claims he is “very happy” with, it now seems

Toyota is hedging its bets between supercharging

and turbocharging for the TRD Aurion.

Either way, it is possible all-wheel drive will

be employed to harness the increased urge,

which would need to bring power and torque

peaks to at least 240kW and 400Nm.

Toyota has confi rmed Aurion’s Camry-

based platform is compatible with an all-wheel

drivetrain, using existing hardware from the

Toyota parts bin, and global executive chief

engineer for Camry, Kluger and Aurion,

Yukihiro Okane, told GoAuto at last week’s

Aurion launch that its 200kW V6 was “already

near the limits of front-wheel drive”.

Toyota Australia’s X-Runner utility concept

of 2003, which GoAuto drove exclusively

soon after its debut, featured a TRD-developed

3.0-litre supercharged V6 that drove all four

wheels via a viscous-coupled AWD system

derived from the Lexus RX300.

And the company remains quick to point out

the signifi cant role that car (and the subsequent

Sportivo Coupe) played in Toyota Australia

gaining approval to develop and produce

Aurion from the new Camry platform for

local and export markets – and to develop a

homegrown performance version.

Toyota has confi rmed HiLux will be the next

cab off the performance rank for TRD, but Mr

Conomos has previously stressed the company

can only develop one TRD variant at a time

initially because the cars will be assembled on-

line at Altona for the fi rst time.

However, expect TRD versions of next year’s

redesigned Corolla hatch, the Yaris light hatch

and possibly even the Camry sedan and Toyota’s

RAV4 and Kluger SUVs. TRD will not be

involved with Lexus, which will continue with

its hybrid-performance market positioning.

As for the Aurion Sports Concept, TSA said

the glass-infused mica metallic Inferno red and

black sports sedan concept features “Formula

One-inspired styling and aerodynamics” via

integrated front and rear air-dam diffusers, a

prominent two-tier rear wing and 20-inch fi ve-

spoke dark charcoal alloy wheels.

Fully blacked-out glass stamps it as pure

showcar and attempts to create “the impression

of a futuristic one-piece glass top”, while

other features include a fl oating grille frame

with embossed mesh insert, twin exhaust

outlets, “tonal” Aurion graphics on the lower

body sides and metallic grey cues around the

windows, grille and lower bootlid spoiler.

Alongside Toyota’s new Aurion range

and the Sports Concept, Toyota also gave its

Camry sedan its Australian motor show debut

in Sydney and revealed a new HiLux-engined

Prado D4D turbo-diesel SUV variant.

AURION ATTACK: CLICK HEREWORLD-BEATER CAMRY: CLICK HERE

TRD Aurion risesTRD Aurion rises

OCTOBER 26, 2006 Page 5

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GoAutonews

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We’ve got you covered… in Queensland

By MARTON PETTENDY

IT IS offi cial: GM Holden used this morning’s

Sydney motor show opening to confi rm its

introduction of America’s legendary Hummer

brand in Australia by mid-2007.

Holden’s executive director of sales,

marketing and aftersales Alan Batey pulled the

covers off Hummer’s smallest model, the H3

wagon, which will single-handedly represent

the GM-owned US brand here for the time

being.

Powered by a 3.7-litre inline fi ve-cylinder

DOHC petrol engine with variable valve

timing, mated to either fi ve-speed manual or

four-speed automatic transmissions, the H3

delivers 180kW at 5600rpm and 328Nm of

torque at 4600rpm to all four wheels via a

permanent electronic AWD system.

Stability control, traction control and side

curtain airbags will be standard. A diesel

engine is also believed to be in the pipeline.

Holden is quick to point out the H3 is shorter

– and has a tighter turning circle – than Ford’s

Territory.

Although converted examples of the H3 and

its larger Hummer stablemates have long been

available here unoffi cially, Australia will be

among the fi rst right-hand drive nations in the

world to receive the brand from GM’s dedicated

RHD production plant at Port Elizabeth, South

Africa.

Pricing, full specifi cations and distribution

details will not be available until launch, but

Holden says H3 will be priced to compete with

similarly sized (large) SUVs such as Toyota’s

top-selling LandCruiser.

Holden also announced pricing and

specifi cations for its redesigned Astra TwinTop

coupe-convertible, which goes on sale in

December at $45,490 for the six-speed manual

and $47,490 for the fi ve-speed automatic.

Aimed directly at Ford’s Focus coupe-

convertible, which also made its production

debut in Sydney, the new Astra CC is powered

by a 110kW/215Nm 2.2-litre direct-injection

four-cylinder Ecotec engine, making it the fi rst

Astra to offer direct fuel injection.

A bigger brother to the XC Tigra (known as

the Corsa TwinTop in Europe), the four-seater

AH Astra TwinTop features a three-piece

retractable hard-top that opens in 30 seconds by

remote control and offers 205 litres of luggage

space (440 litres with the roof closed).

ESP stability control, 17-inch alloy

wheels, twin front and side airbags,

leather-faced seats, a six-CD sound

system and rear parking sensors are

standard. Metallic paint is a $360

option.

Adding yet more incremental

sales for Holden’s second biggest-

selling model behind Commodore will be

a new pair of SRi-badged Astra hatches, also

revealed in Sydney today.

Powered by the same engine as the

TwinTop, the three-door Astra SRi coupe will

be available from December, priced at $30,490

($32,490 auto), while the fi ve-door Astra SRi

hatch carries a price of $29,990 ($31,990

auto). Standard equipment and options echo

that of the TwinTop, apart from a “sports

chassis pack”, lower sports bodykit and a rear

roof spoiler.

Launched last month and already on sale,

Holden’s VE Commodore sedan and WM

Statesman/Caprice models also made their

Australian motor show debut today, as did the

Opel Antara-based Captiva Maxx variant (an

example of the lesser Captiva variants appeared

at this year’s Melbourne motor show).

Since last week, the VE Commodore, and

the continuing VZ Commodore Executive

wagon, Acclaim wagon and Holden Ute, have

been the benefi ciaries of GMH’s new dual-

fuel Alloytec 3.6-litre V6 engine. Available

on the VE Omega, Berlina and Commodore

V-Series special edition models, the dual-fuel

option costs $3900 and delivers peak power of

175kW at 6000rpm (petrol 180kW at 6000rpm)

and peak torque of 325Nm at 2600rpm (petrol

330Nm at 2600 rpm).

This compares to Ford’s dedicated E-Gas

Falcon output of 156kW at 5000rpm and

370Nm at 2750rpm.

DUAL-FUEL COMMODORE: CLICK HERETHE NEW CAPTIVA: CLICK HERE

Holden to introduce iconic US truck next year

Here comes Here comes Hummer!Hummer!

H3

Astra TwinTop

OCTOBER 26, 2006 Page 6

www.mellor.netJohn Mellor's

GoAutonews

By MARTON PETTENDY

HOLDEN Special Vehicles (HSV) almost

outshone GM Holden by revealing a stunning

new long-wheelbase Grange sedan in Sydney

today as promised.

Based on Holden’s slick new WM Statesman/

Caprice, the redesigned HSV luxury fl agship will

go on sale in the fi rst quarter of 2007 at a price

that is expected to remain under $100,000.

HSV’s current Grange is priced at $89,750, but

its 297kW/530Nm 6.0-litre V8 will make way for

the same upgraded 307kW/550Nm LS2 V8 that

powers the short-wheelbase HSV E Series range,

which went on sale in October and also made its

Australian debut in Sydney this morning.

Of course, the WM Grange’s other big

drivetrain news – and helping make it what

HSV claims will be “one of the fastest luxury/

sports limousines in the world” – is the

adoption of GM’s 6L80E six-speed automatic

transmission.

The new Grange features a unique front

bumper and rear “bib”, this time comprising

an understated Euro-style chromed grille and a

chromed lower intake surround up front, along

with chromed window surrounds.

Ten-spoke 19-inch alloys (now 8.0 inches

wide up front, 9.5 inches wide at rear) with

specifi cally developed Bridgestone rubber,

a subtle lower rear diffuser, four premium

exhaust outlets, a fl ush-mounted rear wing,

LED tail-lights and discreet Grange badging

round out the exterior styling.

Inside, there is a “chunky design” steering

wheel, unique HSV instruments and the no-

cost option of “Light Urban” trim (instead of

the standard dark “Onyx” trim).

The 2007 Grange’s all-new AP Racing brake

system comprises 365mm front and 350mm

rear grooved and ventilated rotors with four-

piston front callipers. ESC stability control

(calibrated specifi cally for Grange), traction

control, ABS and HSV’s $4.5 million Magnetic

Ride Control variable suspension damping

system are standard, on top of rain-sensing

wipers, self-levelling bi-Xenon headlights,

heated wing mirrors, 10-way power-adjustable

front seats with memory, tri-zone climate-

control, tyre pressure monitoring and a rear

DVD player.

HSV also revealed a $42,990 pricetag for

its 177kW/320Nm 2.0-litre turbo VXR hot-

hatch, stocks of which have already hit HSV

showrooms. Claimed 0-100km/h acceleration

for the front-drive six-speed manual-only

model is 6.4 seconds. Standard features

include 19-inch alloys, Recaro sports seats and

an IDS chassis control system comprising ESP,

traction control, ABS and brake assist.

VXR IN DETAIL: CLICK HEREHSV E SERIES: CLICK HERE

The cork comes off the Grange luxo sports sedan

HSV’s top dropHSV’s top drop

OCTOBER 26, 2006 Page 7

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GoAutonews

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By NEIL McDONALD

THERE is nothing quite like a Ford-versus-

Holden stoush on the racetrack – or, as it

happens, an exhibition fl oor – as the Blue Oval

brand this morning presented its Focus coupe-

cabriolet (a direct rival to the Astra Twin-Top),

its FPV Force 6 and 8 (grid-locked with HSV)

and its Ranger one-tonne ute, which replaces

the Courier and will be a formidable opponent

to the ageing Holden Rodeo.

Like the VE Commodore, the BF MkII

Falcon also gets its fi rst motor show airing.

On the Ford stand in Sydney, management

– which included FoMoCo executive chairman

Bill Ford – confi rmed the Focus CC would arrive

in Australia early next year, with pricing tipped

to start from around $45,000. Full specifi cations

and pricing will be announced closer to launch.

In Europe, the four-seater is available with

three engines: a 1.6-litre petrol, 2.0-litre petrol

and 2.0-litre TDCi diesel. However, Australia

is expected to get just the 2.0-litre petrol,

mated to either a fi ve-speed manual or four-

speed automatic.

Designed in partnership with classic

coachbuilder Pininfarina, the Focus coupe-

cabriolet has an electric folding roof that takes

29 seconds to open or close.

Inside, the car’s dashboard layout follows the

style of other Focus models, but with an upmarket

colour scheme and leather upholstery.

The cabrio has a rigid high-strength steel

body and full complement of safety gear,

including front and side airbags and two safety

hoops that rise 200mm up behind the rear

passengers in the event of a rollover.

With the roof closed, it offers 534 litres

luggage capacity, and with the hard-top stowed,

there is still 248 litres of space.

In terms of homegrown muscle, Ford

Performance Vehicles has shown its luxury

Force 6 and Force 8 twins. Force 6 features

FPV’s high-tech intercooled F6 270 Turbo

in-line six and the Force 8 is powered by the

quad-cam 5.4-litre Boss 290 V8.

Both are mated to the ZF six-speed

automatic while the cars feature four-piston

front and single-piston rear Brembo brakes,

19-inch shadow chrome alloys, sports-tuned

suspension, limited slip differential and a long

list of luxury appointments.

The other highlight on the stand was the new

Ranger ute, which is claimed to be quieter,

more powerful, safer and better handling than

the Courier. Visually more aggressive and

bolder, it has a modern, car-like interior and

signifi cantly higher towing capacity as well

as more two powerful

common-rail turbo-diesel

engines. Pricing starts

from $20,990 for the 2.5-

litre Turbo Diesel 4x2

single cab-chassis XL,

through to $45,990 for

the range-topping XLT

3.0-litre Turbo Diesel 4x4

crew cab pick-up.

Four different cab styles will be available –

single cab, crew cab, chassis cab and super cab

with a choice of 4x2 or 4x4, a fi ve-speed manual

or an optional fi ve-speed automatic transmission.

Compared to the previous 2.5-litre turbo-diesel,

the new 2.5-litre direct-injection common-rail

diesel produces 18 per cent more torque at less

revs with a 22 per cent improvement in fuel

economy. The 2.5-litre diesel develops 105kW

at 3500rpm and 330Nm at 1800rpm while the

3.0-litre diesel delivers 115kW at 3200rpm and

380Nm at 1800rpm.

At the front, Ranger’s 4x2 and 4x4 models

have car-like independent double-wishbone

suspension with a longer and larger torsion bar

and larger-diameter dampers for greater control

and ride comfort. The rear suspension has been

strengthened to support the vehicle’s hauling

and towing capabilities with longer leaf springs

and a new stabiliser bar. The steering has been

optimised for easy handling in low-speed

manoeuvres and better control at high speeds.

The Ranger has larger front ventilated discs

and leading and trailing drums at the rear.

Braking effort has been reduced and four-

wheel anti-lock brakes with electronic brake-

force distribution and brake assist are standard

on XLT 4x4 models and available as an option

across the range.

At the rear, the side-wall of the cargo box

is 60mm higher than the Courier, boosting

storage to 1547 litres on regular cab models.

FPV BF Falcon Mk II – page 18

Drop-top version of Ford’s Euro small car is coming

Re: FocusRe: Focus

Ranger

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Responsible for the compete sales and marketingstrategy of the total Zupps group.Due to the impending retirement of an ExecutiveDirector this unique position has become available.Zupps is:

• Queensland’s 4th largest privately owned company

• An Australian Automotive market leader for cars & trucks

• An employer of over 750 staff

• A logistics & warehousing provider

• Operator of 15 franchises & growing

• With 15 dealership locations

• Motor industry pioneer in marketing and retailing

With a variety of exciting franchises, warehouse and logisticsoperations, service and parts outlets, an experiencedprofessional is needed to help continue grow our business.

Working in a fast paced environment applicants should be:

• Dynamic, energetic, enthusiastic and experienced sales& marketing professional, ( but automotive experience isnot essential )

• Possess strong communication skills

• Budget control

• A leader and team builder

• Deliver successful total sales & marketing outcomesin all areas of marketing

Sales & MarketingDirector

OCTOBER 26, 2006 Page 9

www.mellor.netJohn Mellor's

GoAutonews

On the track, on the road, and in your

dealership, Mobil 1 is the name that

stands for performance.

AUDIAUDI has one of the most action-packed stands of all the exhibitors at

Sydney this year, following this morning’s Australian debut reveals of the

redesigned TT coupe, the all-new R8 supercar, the S6 super-sedan and

the Le Mans-winning R10 diesel racer. As announced last month, the TT

coupe is set to join the all-new Q7 SUV in Audi’s range from November

and has been priced to please from under $69,000. It will be joined next

year by the new TT Roadster, fi rst revealed globally last week.

Alongside the new TT hardtop, Audi’s blistering new S6 also makes

its Australian debut following its January 2006 global reveal, powered

by a 320kW/540Nm version of the 5.2-litre V10 that powers the new S8

– which made its Australian debut in Melbourne in February and also goes

on sale in November. While the 331kW/540Nm S8, which accelerates to

100km/h in a claimed 5.1 seconds, will be priced at $259,900, the stove-

hot S6, which rides on 19-inch alloys and blasts to 100km/h in a claimed

5.2 seconds, will be priced at $195,900. Both S models will be available

exclusively in six-speed Tiptronic auto guise.

Two other Australian debuts in the road-going R8 supercar and the

R10 racecar are likely to attract even more attention. Powered by a

484kW/1100Nm V12 diesel, Audi’s giant-killing R10 made history in

June when it became the fi rst diesel-powered car to win the 24-hour

Le Mans race. Finally, the 309kW 4.2-litre V8-powered R8 quattro

coupe, Audi’s fi rst supercar, will make its local debut after appearing for

the fi rst time globally at Paris last

month. Capable of a 301km/h

top speed, the aluminium

space-framed R8 goes on

sale here in limited

numbers in the

second half of 2007.

Audi also revealed

a $168,100 price for

its V8-powered RS4

Avant, due on sale

here in late 2006.

AS WELL as world fi rsts from the Aussie car manufacturers, a vast number of overseas concepts and production vehicles made their Australian debut in Sydney this morning – and GoAutoNews has them covered. MARTON PETTENDY, NEIL McDONALD and TERRY MARTIN report

ALFA ROMEOA BEVY of new models headlines Alfa Romeo Australia’s exhibit at this year’s

Sydney show, led by the Italian brand’s latest (Brera coupe-based) Spider two-

seater convertible – sub-$77,000 pricing and full specifi cations for which were

revealed last week. Appearing as a concept in Sydney two years ago, the rear-drive

8C Competizione super-coupe also made its Australian debut for Alfa in Sydney

– direct from its global production debut at Paris last month. Though it will not

be built in right-hand drive, the limited-production Porsche 911 rival has already

attracted dozens of interested Australians and will spawn an open-topped Spider

version powered by the same 336kW/470Nm 4.7-litre V8. Alfa’s new 159 sedan

and 159 Sportwagon range is also on display, alongside the GT and Brera coupe

offerings and the brand’s upgraded 166 Ti sedan fl agship. Alfa’s sister brand Fiat

also presented new DuaLogic variants of its Punto light hatch.

MORE INFO: NEW SPIDER 166 Ti 8C COMPETIZIONE PUNTO DUALOGIC

MORE INFO: TT COUPE TT ROADSTER S6 S8 R8 R10 Q7 RS4 AVANT

TT

Spider

OCTOBER 26, 2006 Page 10

www.mellor.netJohn Mellor's

GoAutonews

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BENTLEYRESURGENT British brand Bentley came out in force in

Sydney this year by giving its Continental GTC convertible

and model year 2007 Arnage sedan their Asia-Pacifi c debuts.

The GT coupe-based GTC convertible brings to three the

number of models in the Continental range and was revealed

in 2005 – the same year the Continental

Flying Spur sedan was launched here.

The Continental GT coupe was

released in Australia in

2003. First deliveries

of the Continental

GTC, powered by a

411kW/650Nm 6.0-

litre W12 that propels

the 2+2 convertible to

100km/h in a supercar-

style 5.1 seconds, will arrive in Australia by late this year,

priced at $399,500 plus stamp duty and on-road costs.

Also on display in Sydney is the range-topper of a

revised MY2007 Arnage line-up, which similarly goes on

sale here in late 2006. With 11 per cent more power, 14 per

cent more torque and now featuring a six-speed ZF auto,

Bentley’s fl agship saloon offers a 373kW/1000Nm 6.75-

litre twin-turbo V8 and, in top-shelf (2585kg) Arnage T

guise, sprints to 100km/h in just 5.2 seconds. It is priced

at $545,000. The long-wheelbase Arnage RL (2655kg)

is priced at $599,000 and blasts to 100km/h in a claimed

5.5 seconds, while the entry-level Arnage R is priced

at $505,000. Also on display in Sydney is an example

of Bentley’s Continental GT Diamond Series, built to

commemorate 60 years of car manufacturing at Crewe and

featuring carbon ceramic brakes.

MORE INFO: CONTINENTAL GTC MY2007 ARNAGE T

DODGECHRYSLER Group Australia reserved its Sydney show limelight for the Australian debut of

the Caliber R/T hot hatch, which brings to four the number of small Caliber hatch variants now

on sale in Australia. Powered by a 125kW/220Nm 2.4-litre four-cylinder, the new fl agship of

the fast-selling Caliber range will be priced at $29,990 – the same as the former Caliber fl agship,

the SXT 2.0 CVT. Mated exclusively to a fi ve-speed manual transmission, the 2.4-litre engined

front-drive R/T also adds 18-inch alloys and ESP stability control. A fi fth Caliber variant, a 2.0-

litre turbo-diesel, will also be released in late 2006. MORE INFO: CALIBER R/T

BMWBMW Group Australia presented a gaggle of all-new models in Sydney this

morning – all of which constitute Australian debuts despite the fact BMW’s

new Z4 Coupe and 3 Series Coupe went on sale earlier this month. Also

unveiled by BMW Group design chief Chris Bangle were BMW’s upgraded

model year 2007 X3 range and the new M6 Convertible. Both models are due

on sale here in December, and, while the drop-top M6 is the epitome of rapid

open-top motoring for a cool $295,000, the upgraded X3 petrol range offers

signifi cantly more performance and lower fuel consumption for prices that

are up between $1000 and $1500. The turbo-diesel X3 3.0d brings no new

technology, but the same exterior cosmetic updates and all-new interior.

MORE INFO: Z4 COUPE 3 SERIES COUPE M6 CONVERTIBLE MY2007 X3

CITROENTWO Australian public debuts graced Citroen’s stand at the Sydney

motor show this morning alongside the offi cial release of the new C6

luxury sedan, which is already on sale at $97,500 for the 155kW/290Nm

3.0-litre V6 and $103,500 for the 150kW/440Nm 2.7-litre twin turbo-

diesel. Family types will be more excited at the prospect of seeing

Citroen’s C4 Picasso people-mover Down Under for the fi rst time – direct

from its Paris motor show global debut last month and well ahead of its

March 2007 release here. To be priced from around $35,000, Citroen’s

latest Picasso range will comprise a 103kW/200Nm 2.0-litre turbo-

diesel option, which is expected to account for up to 80 per cent of sales.

Finally, Citroen’s C4-based world rally racer also made an appearance

in Sydney, direct from its world debut in Paris. Featuring a 234kW 2.0-

litre turbocharged engine mated to a six-speed semi-automatic gearbox,

the C4 WRCar will replace Citroen’s Xsara rally car, which holds the

record for the most consecutive WRC wins.

MORE INFO: C4 PICASSO C6

GTC convertible

C6

M6 convertible

Caliber R/T

OCTOBER 26, 2006 Page 11

www.mellor.netJohn Mellor's

GoAutonews

Swann Insurance is part of the Insurance Australia Group (IAG), the largest general insurance group in Australia and New Zealand.

Swann has a successful history of distributing retail insurance products through motor dealer, motorcycle dealer and finance brokers, and has for many years enjoyed market leadership.

As State Manager, reporting to the Sales & Distribution Manager-Dealer, you will have full responsibility for managing a sales team and associated support staff. You will be charged with responsibility for generating income from the existing account base and acquisition of new business in a market that has significant opportunity for growth. In addition, you will have responsibility to manage the overall performance of the business in Victoria to ensure the company meets its desired R.O.E.

This is an autonomous, hands-on position that demands a disciplined yet flexible approach to sales, sales management and achieving results within a rapidly changing and challenging environment.

The successful candidate will possess:

– Outstanding presentation, negotiation and selling skills.– Experience managing a sales team in a very competitive market.– Excellent relationship building skills. – A record of recent success in growing revenue via third party distributors in the dealer market.– Exceptional planning and organizational skills.– Current experience in the Australian Motor Industry at a senior level in either a manufacturer/distributor or a financial services company associated with the industry.– Experience in a relationship based selling environment.– Several years proven success in working with or in the motor industry.– A total focus on success.

An appropriate salary package with performance incentives will be negotiated to attract a high calibre person who

seeks the career opportunities that come with such a senior role with Australia’s largest general insurance group.

Closing Date: 5pm November 1 2006

Enquiries / Applications to: James Reynolds Manager – Marketing Level 1, CGU Tower 485 La Trobe Street Melbourne Victoria 3000 Email: james.reynolds@iag.com.au

State Dealer ManagerVictoria

FERRARIEVERY example of the 599 GTB Fiorano allocated to Australia and New Zealand

until 2008 has been sold, but that did not stop Ferrari’s 575M replacement making

its Australian debut in Sydney today.

Powered by a 456kW 5.99-litre V12 and employing the latest evolution of Ferrari’s

all-aluminium body and chassis to deliver a weight/power ratio of just 2.6kg per

horsepower, the two-seater 599 coupe employs F1 technology to blast to 100km/h in

a claimed 3.7 seconds (making it as quick as Porsche’s 911 Turbo) and to a top speed

of more than 330km/h. The 599 is claimed to be the most powerful V12-engined

production car of all time and comes with a pricetag to match: $574,000 for the

manual and $600,000 for the F1 Superfast version. MORE INFO: 599

EDAGTHE Australian branch of the German design and engineering outfi t Edag has

shown its Show Car #8 concept car based on the Smart Roadster – the aim being

to show that it can create a “completely” new vehicle by redesigning exterior

components – and a bulletproof Audi A6. The A6 Security is claimed to be able

to withstand fi re from weapons up to 9mm. The vehicle

was designed in Germany, however Edag is setting up

a centre for protective systems in Melbourne – the fi rst

of its kind outside its home country. Show Car #8

599 GTB Fiorano

OCTOBER 26, 2006 Page 12

www.mellor.netJohn Mellor's

GoAutonews

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Paris, France São Paulo, Brazil Tokyo, Japan Troy, Michigan USA

HYUNDAIHYUNDAI’S headline act at today’s Sydney motor show opening was

meant to be the Arnejs concept, which is coming direct from its global

debut at last month’s Paris motor show and previews a fi ve-door hatch

derivative of the South Korean maker’s new small Elantra sedan, due

here in the second half of 2007. However, it failed to arrive in time for

this morning’s press briefi ng.

Instead, Hyundai showcased its Sonata SXi concept, as a preview of

“what a sporty version of Sonata V6 might look like”. Based on a top-shelf

Sonata Elite V6, the show car features Eibach sports springs, lattice-look

19-inch MS Design polished alloy wheels and locally sourced slotted brake

discs with red callipers. Hyundai says the Sonata SXi, which also features a

German MS Designs bodykit, black leather interior and silver instruments

with amber lighting, will be used to test public reaction “to help assess the

potential market appeal of a Sonata model with a similar image”.

Due to be launched to media tomorrow, Hyundai also announced

pricing and specifi cations for its new 2.2-litre DOHC common-rail

direct-injection turbo-diesel Santa Fe CRDi variant, which returns ADR

81/01 fuel consumption of just 7.3L/100km in manual guise. Hyundai

says the CRDi Santa Fe, which offers 114kW and 343Nm of torque

from 1800rpm, is not only far more frugal than its Territory, Kluger and

Captiva rivals, but also 37 per cent lower exhaust emissions.

The CRDi introduces new SX and SLX variant names to the Santa Fe

line-up, with the entry-level fi ve-seat SX CRDi priced at $36,990, which

Hyundai claims makes it Australia’s most affordable diesel-powered

medium SUV. Combined with a new adaptive fi ve-speed Selectronic

automatic, the SX CRDi is priced from $39,990, while the mid-spec

auto-only SLX CRDi is priced at $43,490. The top-spec Santa Fe Elite

CRDi auto is priced from $46,990. Hyundai also showed a limited-

edition three-door Accent hatch in Sydney featuring 16-inch alloy

wheels and a powered sunroof, just 70 examples of which were retailed

to NSW dealers for the duration of the show. MORE INFO: ARNEJS

HONDAHONDA’S Sports 4 Concept on display at Sydney gives some idea of what the next-generation Accord Euro

will look like. A star of the 2005 Tokyo Motor Show, Honda claims the Sports 4 “points the way to future Honda

sports sedans, featuring a sleek, bold exterior, equally futuristic interior and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive”

(with the awful acronym SHAWD) and exhibits the company’s “keen edge dynamics”. Seen in

the new Legend, SHAWD distributes torque between the front and rear wheels with a 70/30

or 30/70 split, while at the same time controlling torque distribution to the two rear

wheels within a range of 100/0 or 0/100 side to side. Inside, the Sports 4

features independent sports seats and electrically controlled personal

sunroofs for each passenger. The car is 4580mm long, 1850mm

wide and sits on a 2700mm wheelbase. By comparison, the current

Accord Euro is 4665mm long, 1760mm wide and has a 2670mm

wheelbase. Apart from the Sports 4 and Legend, Honda Australia is

exhibiting its updated Accord VTi. MORE INFO: SPORTS 4

Sonata SXi

Sports 4

OCTOBER 26, 2006 Page 13

www.mellor.netJohn Mellor's

GoAutonews

LAND ROVERLAND ROVER’S long-overdue Freelander 2

compact SUV debuted in Sydney today ahead

of its market introduction early next year. It will

offer a choice of two engines: a Ford-sourced

118kW/400Nm 2.2-litre TD4 diesel, and a Volvo-

sourced 171kW/317Nm 3.2-litre inline-six petrol.

Both will be paired with a six-speed automatic. Land

Rover also released details and pricing for the new

3.6-litre TDV8 Range Rover Vogue and Range Rover

Sport. The RR Vogue TDV8 starts from $140,900,

rising to $165,900 for the TDV8 Luxury, while the

Range Rover Sport TDV8 is priced from $107,900.

The 3.6-litre TDV8 develops 200kW at 4000rpm

and 640Nm from 2000rpm and has a combined fuel

economy fi gure of 11.3L/100km in the

Vogue and 11.1L/100km in the Sport.

Both the Vogue and Sport accelerate

from 0-100km/h in 9.2 seconds. The

normally aspirated Range Rover Vogue

291kW V8 petrol and supercharged

225kW V8 petrol models continue. MORE INFO: FREELANDER 2

KIAKIA has used the Sydney show to introduce two

special-edition models to add to its budget-end

1.6-litre Rio line-up. The Rio Sport hatch and

Rio Luxury sedan are designed for incremental

sales, both priced at $18,990. Above the

standard Rio equipment of air-conditioning,

remote central locking and six-speaker CD

stereo, the Sport adds 16-inch alloys, leather

steering wheel, ABS, six airbags, sports trim

and a rear spoiler. The Luxury sedan also gains

16-inch alloys, six airbags, leather steering

wheel and a more upmarket interior.

Kia has also shown the wee 1.1-litre Picanto

hatch to gauge public opinion. The Picanto

develops 48kW at 5500rpm and 97Nm at

2800rpm. The new Sportage CRDi turbo-

diesel, which goes on sale early next year, has

also been unveiled, along with the facelifted

Sorento with its new 3.8-litre V6, priced from

$36,990. The Sportage CRDi has a Euro

IV-compliant diesel engine which develops

103kW at 4000rpm and 305Nm at between

1800rpm and 2500rpm. It is mated to a six-

speed manual gearbox. The success of the

Carnival has also prompted the Korean car-

maker to introduce a premium Grand Carnival,

priced from $43,990 and featuring six airbags,

16-inch alloys, leather trim, a multi-function

steering wheel and electric sliding doors. MORE INFO: PICANTO

LEXUSIF “BLING” gets you buzzing then the dazzling, fully chromed Lexus IS250 – purely a one-

off concept, we’re assured – is sure to please. Lexus has also shown the LS460 sedan ahead of

its launch, which has been delayed until early next year. The LS460, and the longer-wheelbase

LS600hL hybrid, will spearhead a new assault on the limousine market. The LS600hL is billed as

the world’s fi rst upper-luxury petrol-electric hybrid and the world’s fi rst V8 hybrid. Other ground-

breaking hybrid vehicles in the RX400h and GS450h are also on display. MORE INFO: LS600h LS460 GS450hIS250 Chrome

Picanto

Freelander 2

OCTOBER 26, 2006 Page 14

www.mellor.netJohn Mellor's

GoAutonews

MAZDAMAZDA has previewed its new CX-7 SUV ahead of its November launch. With prices expected to start at $45,000

for the entry model, rising to just under $50,000 for the Luxury, the CX-7 is sure to lure SUV buyers to the Mazda

fold looking for something bigger than the Tribute. The CX-7 is powered by a version of Mazda’s turbocharged

and intercooled 2.3-litre four-cylinder direct-injection engine (MZR 2.3 DISI), which also powers the Mazda6

MPS and Mazda3 MPS. Mating to a six-speed automatic gearbox, the CX-7 produces 175kW and

350Nm at 2500rpm.

Based on the MX-Crossport concept shown earlier this year at the Melbourne International

Motor Show, the CX-7 is claimed to have ample space for fi ve occupants. The rear

seat is a 60/40 split-fold to increase cargo space. Standard features will include

stability and traction control, and dual front, side and head-protecting curtain

airbags. Apart from the CX-7, Mazda is previewing the BT-50 ahead of its December

on sale launch. The BT-50 replaces the long-serving Bravo range of utilities. It will offer

the choice of two common-rail turbo-diesel engines of 2.5-litre and 3.0-litre capacity.

The Kabura concept and the new Mazda6 diesel launched last week are also on show.

Mazda6 diesel – page 20 MORE INFO: CX-7 BT-50

LOTUSFAMED British sportscar-maker Lotus came out with all guns blazing at Sydney this morning

by revealing a new fl agship coupe at one end of its range and a new entry-level roadster at the

other. Firmly in the limelight was the Lotus answer to Porsche’s Cayman, the all-new

Europa S two-seater coupe, which goes on sale in late January priced at $109,990 in

manual-only guise. At the other end of the Lotus line-up is a new Elise S convertible

variant, which ditches the roadster’s now defunct Rover K-Series four-cylinder in

favour of a 1.8-litre Toyota engine that offers 100kW. Priced from $69,990 and now

on sale, the Elise S comes standard with air-conditioning and a manual transmission.

MORE INFO: EUROPA S

MASERATINOT to be outdone by Ferrari’s new 599 coupe, fellow Italian and Fiat brand Maserati

presented its limited-edition GranSport MC Victory in Sydney, for which it announced a

price of $272,500. From a total global production run of only 180 vehicles, Australia and

New Zealand will land just fi ve examples, which add a number of extras over the $248,500

GranSport coupe upon which the MC Victory is based. Designed to celebrate the marque’s

victory in the 2005 FIA GT Manufacturers’ Cup and offering links with the title-winning

Maserati MC12 racer, the road-going MC features blue carbon front and rear spoilers, an

Italian fl ag embedded in its side panels, a more direct steering rack, leather and Alcantara

interior trim and highlights, and carbon racing seats. MORE INFO: MC VICTORYMC12

Europa S

CX-7

OCTOBER 26, 2006 Page 15

www.mellor.netJohn Mellor's

GoAutonews

Make sure they don’tget away!

PEUGEOTPEUGEOT fl ew in not one but two high-profi le vehicles directly from the Paris motor show for this morning’s

Sydney motor show opening. Leading the French maker’s exhibit is the all-new 207 hatch, which will be

sold alongside the much smaller 206 hatch, Peugeot’s best-selling model ever, from around March

2007. No pricing was forthcoming from Peugeot, but Australian 207s will be powered by a 1.4, 1.6

and 1.6-litre turbo petrol engines co-developed with BMW, plus a 1.6 HDi turbo-diesel. Also direct

from Paris is the 307 Hybride HDi Diesel, which is claimed to provide a 30 per cent improvement

in fuel economy over a conventional vehicle, along with 25 per cent better economy than a petrol-

hybrid vehicle. MORE INFO: 207

MERCEDES-BENZTHE full range of 6.2-litre AMG V8-engined models were on public display for the fi rst time

today following last week’s launch, but the big-ticket item on the Mercedes-Benz stand in

Sydney was the Australian debut of the all-new GL-class off-roader. On display in Australia

for the fi rst time, the big brother to the ML-class will be available with either 165kW/510Nm

V6 turbo-diesel or 285kW 5.5-litre V8 power, both with the option of seven seats. Pricing was

announced in July at $103,900 for the base GL320 CDI diesel and $146,900 for the GL500 petrol

variant, both of which will go on sale in November. A mid-spec GL450 petrol model will follow

in the fi rst quarter of 2007, powered by Benz’s new 250kW 4.6-litre V8. All three variants will

be fi tted as standard with Mercedes’ 7G-Tronic seven-speed automatic transmission. All US-

built GL-class models will also feature the Off-road Pro Engineering package (which includes

a two-speed transfer case with low-range, and diff locks for the transfer case and rear axle) and

modifi ed off-road-oriented Airmatic air suspension. AMG 63 – page 20 MORE INFO: GL-CLASS

NISSANIT LOOKS to be a 200SX replacement, but Nissan remains uncommitted to its Foria concept

– the star of its Aussie motor show stand. Conceived by Nissan’s international design studio, the

Foria is a compact sports coupe designed as a driver’s car with a touch of elegance. It uses a “mid-

sized” engine that drives the rear wheels via a paddle-shift automatic transmission.

Another mechanical highlight is a four-wheel Active Steer system. In true

sports touring tradition, the front-engine/rear-drive layout allows a short

front overhang, long hood and compact cabin. Exterior styling combines

sporty curves with elegant lines, set off with 18-inch alloys positioned at the

car’s four corners. The integrated grille and headlight treatment is becoming a

Nissan trademark while the high waistline is designed to convey a sophisticated

image. The Foria also boasts “suicide” doors in the fashion of the Mazda RX-8.

The interior design is handcrafted with a sports fl are. MORE INFO: FORIA

GL-class

Foria

207

OCTOBER 26, 2006 Page 16

www.mellor.netJohn Mellor's

GoAutonews

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SSANGYONGSOUTH Korean brand SsangYong hoped to turn more than a few heads by revealing two new strikingly

styled adventure models in Sydney this morning, both of which made their Australian debuts. First

revealed at Frankfurt last year, the compact Actyon fi ve-door SUV will be aimed directly at the likes

of Toyota’s RAV4 when it joins its larger Kyron sibling on sale here around February. Due to arrive

at around the same time, depending on the run-out of its Musso utility predecessor, is the bigger new

fi ve-seater Actyon Sports dual-cab ute. Revealed at the Busan motor show in South Korea in April, the

Actyon Sports will maintain an entry price similar to that of the current Musso ute, which at $27,990 for

the 2.7-litre turbo-diesel comprises a big chunk of SsangYong’s Australian sales. Both Actyon models

will be powered by either an 110kW/214Nm 2.3-litre petrol engine or a 104kW/310Nm 2.0-litre turbo-

diesel, mated to manual and auto transmissions. MORE INFO: ACTYON ACTYON SPORTS

PROTONIT HAS been seven years since Proton last exhibited at Sydney motor show, and its new-generation three-door

Satria hatch was deemed too important to miss the premiere event. On sale from February priced from around

$17,990, the new Satria is the fi nal component in the company’s fi rst wave of “self-designed” cars, following

the Gen2 and Savvy. It is built on a new platform developed entirely by Proton, with styling cues taken

from Audi’s A3. The car’s exterior presents a muscular and sporty image with headlights that project

the company’s “tiger eye” family design fi rst seen on the Gen2. The Satria will be powered

by an 82kW/148Nm 1.6-litre Campro twin-cam four-cylinder, which sees the car sprint

from 0-100km/h in 11.5 seconds. Standard equipment should run to air-conditioning,

electric windows, alarm, MP3-compatible stereo, a three-spoke steering wheel,

front foglights, a rear roof spoiler and reverse-parking sensors.

Proton will also show a special Satria design exercise known as Desire. Satria

Desire is a wild styling exercise that perhaps provides a hint of what is to come with

the much-anticipated second-generation Satria GTi. MORE INFO: SATRIA

RENAULTTHE huge infl ux of diesels Down Under continues at the Sydney motor show, with Renault for one unveiling

its Laguna Phase II 2.2 dCi diesel. On sale from this week, and priced from $46,990, the “reborn” Laguna

is fi tted with a fi ve-speed automatic transmission and benefi ts from the latest changes to the Laguna

line-up, which last saw duty here in January as a Phase I model. The Euro IV-compliant diesel

develops 112kW at 4000rpm and 320Nm from 1750rpm, offering sub-6.0L/100km fuel

economy and accelerating from 0-100km/h in 10.3 seconds and has a top speed of 210km/h.

More diesel models will follow from Renault, including the arrival early next year of the

Megane turbo-diesel range.

SAABNAMED the best concept car at this year’s Geneva Motor Show, Saab’s Aero X has made a stunning debut in

Sydney. The radical two-seater AWD concept combines Saab’s design pedigree, aviation history, Scandinavian

heritage and environmental credentials to create a performance car with a difference. It uses a Holden-built

2.8-litre V6 twin-turbo engine running on 100 per cent bioethanol fuel that delivers 298kW/500Nm,

providing the car with 0-100km/h acceleration of 4.9 seconds via a seven-speed sequential automatic.

Saab also unveiled the revised 2007 9-3 range, dropping the Arc model and replacing it with the

Linear Sport and previewing the 1.9-litre turbo-diesel. The dashboard, instrument displays and

controls in the 9-3 models have been given a cleaner, sharper look. The close-ratio, six-speed

manual currently found in the 9-3 Aero range has also been extended as standard across the

9-3 range. Only the entry-level $39,900 Linear Sport sedan retains the fi ve-speed manual.

Linear Sport retains the 129kW/265Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine and luxury

appointments such as heated leather seats, and gains the six-speed manual transmission

and 17-inch alloys. The Arc Sport was previously priced from $47,900 for manual and

$50,000 for automatic. The Linear Sport undercuts the Arc Sport and is priced from

$45,900 for manual and $48,400 for automatic. MORE INFO: AERO X

Satria

Laguna

Aero X

Actyon

OCTOBER 26, 2006 Page 17

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VOLVOVOLVO has used the Sydney show to reveal

pricing for its new S80 fl agship sedan, which

arrives in January with prices starting from

$71,950 for the six-speed manual D5 diesel and

topping out at $95,950 for the AWD V8. The

Yamaha-sourced V8 develops 235kW/440Nm

and, combining with a six-speed automatic, will

send the car from 0-100km/h in 6.5 seconds.

The 2.4-litre D5 diesel is also shared with the

XC90, developing 136kW/400Nm in the S80.

Apart from the S80, Volvo has shown its

C30 hatch and C70 cabrio. Initially, two C30

models will be offered: a naturally aspirated

125kW/230Nm 2.4-litre fi ve-cylinder and

a hot 162kW/320Nm 2.5-litre T5 model.

A 134kW/350Nm 2.0-litre D5 turbo-diesel

engine is also expected to join the line-up.

The C30 measures just 4250mm in overall

length – 220mm shorter than the S40 sedan

– but offers similar high levels of passive

and active safety as well as the same interior

packaging. The C30 goes on sale in April.

The other main attraction on the Volvo

stand is the C70 coupe-convertible, which is

available in two guises: the 125kW 2.4-litre

$69,950 LE and 162kW 2.5-litre $70,950 T5.

SUBARUSUBARU has used the Australian International Motor Show to reveal that its Tribeca SUV will be priced from

$53,990 for a 3.0R model variant and $58,990 for a 3.0R Premium. A third row will add $2000. On sale from next

month, the Tribeca is fi tted standard with dynamic stability control, dual front, side and curtain airbags, speed-

sensitive wipers, satellite navigation with reversing camera, dual-zone climate-control air-conditioning, 40/20/40

split-fold rear seats, cruise control, a trip computer, MP3-compatible six-stacker nine-speaker in-dash CD

stereo, under-fl oor cargo boxes, electric eight-way adjustable front seats and 18-inch alloys.

The Premium adds leather upholstery, a 22cm DVD system with wireless headphones

and remote control, a sunroof and heated front seats with driver position memory.

Seven-seat Tribecas also gain a rear seat cooler with four settings, plus ceiling vents,

aiding air-conditioning in second and third row seats.

Tribeca shares its horizontally opposed 3.0-litre six-cylinder with the Liberty

range. In the Tribeca it develops 180kW at 6600rpm and 297Nm at 4200rpm and is

mated to a fi ve-speed Sportshift automatic. Braked towing capacity is 2000kg, the fi rst

time this rating has been achieved by a Subaru.

SUZUKITHE SX4 hatch is due here early next year, and Suzuki has wasted no time in using its

hot World Rally Championship car as a teaser. Suzuki returns to the WRC next year and

the SX4 WRC car – the main attraction on its Sydney stand – features a newly developed

AWD system with mechanical differentials front and rear and an electronic differential

located in the centre. Power is transmitted via a fi ve-speed sequential gearbox. Specifi c

performance details of the WRC car are unknown but the prototype car develops 238kW

between 4000rpm and 4500rpm and a massive 637Nm at 3000rpm. Maintaining the go-

fast theme, Suzuki is showing its new $23,990 Swift Sport, which uses a sports-tuned

92kW 1.6-litre VVT engine. MORE INFO: SWIFT SPORT

VOLKSWAGENVOLKSWAGEN reserved all of its Sydney show limelight for its forthcoming Eos coupe-

convertible, which made its Australian debut today ahead of its offi cial release around

March next year. As such, no pricing details were forthcoming from Volkswagen, which

says it will position the Golf cabriolet successor just as aggressively as its Polo, Golf and

Passat models are against their rivals. Presumably that means Eos will be less expensive

than both Ford’s Focus CC and Holden’s Astra TwinTop, which opens its account at under

$45,000 from December. Two engine options will be available, with both the 2.0-litre TDI

turbo-diesel and 2.0-litre TFSI turbo petrol powerplants borrowed from Golf (and Audi).

Revealed at last year’s Frankfurt motor show, the Eos is claimed to be the world’s fi rst four-

seater with a fi ve-section folding roof – and a sliding glass sunroof. MORE INFO: EOS

MORE INFO: C30 XC90 C70

Tribeca

Eos

C30

SX4 WRC

OCTOBER 26, 2006 Page 18

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By BYRON MATHIOUDAKIS

FORD Performance Vehicles (FPV) is rising

to the VE Commodore-based HSV E-series

challenge with an expanded line-up, more

value and a greater customer focus.

Leading the charge are the new Force 6 and

Force 8 sedans, based on the Typhoon F6 and

GT/GT-P models respectively.

Priced from $71,590, they sit on top of the

FPV tree for now. Compared to all other BF

MarkII Falcon sedan-based FPV models, the

Force 6 and 8 are toned-down stylistically -

and this is at the very heart of their being.

Embellished with an array of subtle new

detailing, the FPV Force cars are responsible

for luring buyers with “European” tastes who

would not have previously considered an FPV

(or HSV) because of their aggressive and/or

outlandish appearance, according to managing

director Sak Ryopponen.

“They’re about not making too much of a

statement,” he told GoAuto.

So big wings, spoilers and airdams, and

lurid colours, are out. And while the regular

FPV bumper inserts stay, they are specifi cally

colour-coded for the Force cars. A chrome

fi nish is also applied to the mesh grille, exterior

mirror caps, driving lights surrounds, side skirt

fl utes and rear number-plate valance.

A small lip spoiler extends from the boot,

the ‘8’ sports a twin-exhaust system with

trapezoidal outlets, and 1932 Ford V8 badge-

inspired ‘Force’ script dons the back doors

and rear. Five-spoke 19-inch alloy wheels

fi nished in a chrome shadow fi nish, and shod

with 245/35 ZR19 Dunlop SP Sport Maxx

tyres are included.

However, the F6 turbocharger’s intercooler

in the Force 6 is still visible, while nobody will

miss the GT’s bonnet bulge on the Force 8.

Leather upholstery, in either white-stitched

black (‘Dark Charcoal’) or a new – and very

Alfa Romeo – ‘Regency Red’ colour are

supposed to add a more European feel, as do

the dark woodgrain and chrome trim on the

dash and doors. Refl ecting the Forces’ fl agship

status, parking sensors, a powered driver’s

seat with memory linked to

the electronic rear-view mirror

dipping and pedal adjustment,

a premium audio package and

dual-zone climate-control air-

conditioning are part of the

package.

Mechanically neither strays

from its donor vehicle’s

specifi cation, so the Force 6’s

4.0-litre variable-valve twin-cam turbocharged

six-cylinder engine develops the same 270kW

of power at 5250rpm and 550Nm of torque

from 2000rpm to 2500rpm as in the F6.

Accordingly, the Force 8 uses the GT’s 5.4-

litre DOHC ‘Boss 290’ V8, meaning 290kW

at 5500rpm and 520Nm at 4500rpm. The only

gearbox on offer is the ZF 6HP26 six-speed

automatic transmission.

Fuel consumption for the Force 6 is

13L/100km while the 8 returns 15L/100km.

Four-piston front and single-piston rear

Brembo brakes, sports-tuned suspension, and a

limited slip rear differential are also fi tted.

Unsure how they will be received, FPV

hopes around 220 to 250 Force 6 and 8 sedans,

split about 50/50, will be sold in 2007.

“It is a bit of an unknown,” said FPV brand

manager Mark Behr, a pop-culture afi cionado

who revealed that he wanted to produce a

car with classic red leather seats and chrome

elements.

Along with the HSV Senator and Chrysler

300C SRT-8, buyers of the Audi A6, BMW 5

Series and Mercedes E-class are also sought.

Meanwhile, FPV has massaged the rest of

its range. The previously

$1250 ZF automatic is now

a no-cost option across the

range, the leather seat option

is down to $995 (previously

$1850 and $2750 in utes and

sedans respectively), 19-inch

wheels replace 18-inch rims

and the price of some fancier

alloys also drop.

The F6 models feature revised driving-

light surrounds, there are new stripe designs

(inspired by the XY Falcon GT on the GT/GT-

P cars), and three new colours – blue, orange

and turquoise. There is also a new steering

wheel and chrome vent adjusters, and optional

Bluetooth and MP3 connectivity.

Along with a free driving course, Blueprint

magazine subscription, free gift and leather

compendium, FPV customers will now be

contacted to preview changes for new models

and attend open days.

FPV hopes to sell 2200 vehicles this year.

For drive impressions, go to www.goauto.com.au in the coming days.

PRICING:F6 Tornado $54,170F6 Typhoon $61,810GT $62,210GT-P $70,410Pursuit $54,170Super Pursuit $59,200Force 6 $71,590Force 8 $71,990

The enForcersThe enForcers

FPV loses muscle-car looks for Euro vision with its understated Force 6 and 8

OCTOBER 26, 2006 Page 19

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GoAutonews

One of our clients is seeking expressions of interest for

the sale of a rural new and used vehicle dealership.

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vehicle sales, fi nance, parts and service all operating

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For copies of the Confi dentiality Deed and Information

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Horwath Securities Pty Ltd is an independent practice. Other Horwath practices operate in each of the nation’s fi nancial centres.

Motor Dealership for SaleWA Regional

By BYRON MATHIOUDAKIS

MAZDA has launched Australia’s fi rst turbo-

diesel powered Japanese passenger car.

In a surprising move, the Mazda6 wagon and

hatchback are the only diesel recipients, priced

from $35,205 and $38,090 respectively.

Many observers expected a sedan, since this

was what Mazda displayed to test the waters at

several recent motor shows around the country.

Designed, engineered and manufactured by

Mazda, the engine is a 2.0-litre direct-injection

single overhead cam 16-valve four-cylinder

unit dubbed MZR-CD.

Mated solely to a six-speed manual gearbox,

it delivers 105kW of power at 3500rpm and

360Nm of torque at 2000rpm, as well as a

5.9L/100km fuel consumption average, for a

1000km-plus range.

The highway result is 5.0L/100km, adding a

further 250km to the Mazda’s potential range.

No automatic gearbox will be offered, which

is good news for the sellers of the Mazda6

Diesel’s rivals, which include Volkswagen’s

Golf, Jetta and Passat TDI, the Peugeot 307

and 407 HDi, Holden’s Astra Diesel, and

Citroen’s C5 HDi, as well as the upcoming

Renault Laguna dCi and Saab 9-3 TiD.

However, Mazda is confi dent that the sub-

$40,000 pricing – which makes it Australia’s

cheapest mid-sized diesel (it does not regard

the Golf-based Jetta as ‘medium’) – will help

the Mazda6 Diesel fi nd success.

Among the MZR-CD’s technological

highlights are a ceramic particulate fi lter

system, which helps it ‘virtually eliminate’

diesel smoke and soot to achieve a Euro Stage

IV emission standard.

Mazda says the common-rail injection system

pumps fuel at a high 1800-bar pressure and in

precise quantities for improved combustion

effi ciency, in the name of more power and less

nitrogen and particulate emissions.

The compact variable-geometry turbo-

charger helps spread torque accessibility across

a wide rev-range, and is designed for minimum

lag and smooth operation.

Furthermore, overly rapid pressure increases

in the cylinders, along with diesel knock and

associated combustion noises, are tackled

via the multi-stage injection system, which is

performed up to nine times per cycle, as well

as a low compression ratio (16.7:1).

The manual gearbox is the same three-shaft

device that debuted in the Mazda6 MPS 4WD

turbo, and features triple-cone synchronisers in

the fi rst three forward ratios, a double cone on

fourth and a single cone on fi fth and sixth, to

handle the extra torque loads and for smoother

changes.

Another change over the petrol-powered

Mazda6 is the implementation of slightly

fi rmer spring rates for the double wishbone

front and multi-link rear suspension.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE DRIVE IMPRESSIONS: CLICK HERE

Ultra-clean diesel expands the Mazda6 range - to 1250km!

Diesel spiceDiesel spice

OCTOBER 26, 2006 Page 20

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Sales • Service • Parts • Admin

Up Close on PersonnelUp Close on PersonnelUp Close on PersonnelUp Close on PersonnelUp Close on PersonnelUp Close on PersonnelUp Close on PersonnelUp Close on PersonnelUp Close on PersonnelUp Close on Personnel motor staffsales•service•parts•adminBrought to you by Motor Staff - The Motor Industry’s No1 Recruitment Specialist

THE Ford Motor Co’s new president and

chief executive offi cer Alan Mulally was in

the spotlight this week as he announced that

the American auto giant had posted a $US5.8

billion ($A7.6 billion) loss for the third quarter

ending September 30, 2006.

“Operating challenges” in North America,

Asia-Pacifi c and Africa (which includes Australia)

and Premier Automotive Group operations were

deemed largely responsible for the loss, which

compared with a net loss of $US284 million

in the 2005 third quarter. North American job-cut

related expenses, and writing down the value of production facilities

ahead of plant closures, exacerbated the result, while Jaguar and Land

Rover assets also underwent revaluation to the tune of $US1.6 billion.

“These business results are clearly unacceptable,” Mr Mulally said.

“We are committed to dealing decisively with the fundamental business

reality that customer demand is shifting to smaller, more effi cient

vehicles. Our focused priorities are to restructure aggressively to

operate profi tably at lower volumes, and to accelerate the development

of new, more effi cient vehicles that customers really want.” He also

told US media that it would not seek an alliance with Renault-Nissan,

which remains on the lookout for a North American partner after talks

with General Motors collapsed earlier this month.

Ford’s Asia-Pacifi c and Africa unit reported a pre-tax loss of $US56

million, compared with a pre-tax profi t of $US21 million a year ago.

According to Ford, the decline primarily refl ected “lower production

and dealer inventories, adverse mix, and higher incentives, partially

offset by cost reductions”. Sales were $US1.6 billion, compared with

$US1.9 billion in 2005.

Alan Mulally

If you have any car industry personnel announcements, please email them to Terry Martin at

By BYRON MATHIOUDAKIS

SUPERCHARGERS are out as Mercedes-

Benz relaunches its answer to BMW’s M cars,

as well as the Audi RS series, with the AMG 63

range. Four disparate models are now available

with an all-new naturally-aspirated AMG V8,

combined with a seven-speed auto.

In order from the lowest price are the W164

ML63 AMG luxury SUV, the C209 CLK63

AMG coupe and the W211 E63 AMG and

C219 CLS63 AMG sedans, with the CLK and

E-class also offered in A209 convertible and

S211 wagon iterations respectively.

A W221 S-class variant – the S63 AMG – is

scheduled to slot into the series in the middle

of 2007, along with the C216 CL63 AMG and

W251 R63 AMG, bringing the 63 AMG total

to seven for now.

Other AMG models, including the new

$450,000, V12-powered S65 and W203 C55

AMG sedans, will remain on sale.

At the heart of the AMG 63 range is a new

6.2-litre V8, a 90-degree twin overhead cam

V8 displacing 6208cc and featuring four valves

per cylinder, a 102.2mm bore and 94.6mm

stroke, and a compression ratio of 11.3:1.

According to Mercedes, German law insists

that manufacturers round the fi gure up to the next

whole number, hence the 6.3-litre, or ‘63’ tag.

The power output for most AMG 63 models

varies; ML: 375kW at 6800rpm; CLK: 354kW

at 6800rpm; CLS and E: 378kW at 6800rpm;

and S: 386kW at 6800rpm.

Curiously, though, the torque top is the

same for all – 630Nm at 5200rpm (5000rpm

in the CLK), with a maximum engine speed of

7000rpm.

Mercedes-Benz describes this powerplant

as the fi rst in the world “to combine the high-

revving concept with a large displacement”.

Its power-per-litre output is 62.2kW, while

delivering 101.5Nm per litre.

The company also claims that the 6.2-litre

V8 delivers 20 per cent more torque than

comparable naturally aspirated engines with

a similar power rating. At 2000rpm there is

already 500Nm on offer.

FULL STORY: CLICK HEREDRIVE IMPRESSIONS: CLICK HERE

63 retires 63 retires on superon super

E63 AMG

‘CLEARLY UNACCEPTABLE’: MULALLY EXPLAINS FORD’S $US5.8 BILLION Q3 LOSS

OCTOBER 26, 2006 Page 21

www.mellor.netJohn Mellor's

GoAutonews

AUDI TT ROADSTERAUDI has revealed its second-generation TT

Roadster just a month after the coupe upon

which it is based made its global public debut

at the Paris motor show. It goes on sale around

June 2007. FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

TIIDA OUT OF THAILANDNISSAN Australia will switch the source of its

Tiida small car from Japan to Thailand early

next year, which given the free trade agreement

between Australia and Thailand will enable the

struggling hatch and sedan to maintain their

competitiveness. The car currently retails from

$17,990 – a “special” price that now looks certain

to remain – however the company has refused to

confi rm whether the current level of equipment

and model line-up will be maintained.

3 SERIES CABRIOBMW unveiled its fourth-generation 3 Series

Convertible this week ahead of its fi rst public

engagement at the North American International

Auto Show in January. Due on sale in Australia

later in 2007, the four-seater convertible has

made the move to a folding hard-top roof and is

claimed to be the fi rst car in the world to offer

“sun-refl ective” leather seat trim.

MORE DETAILS: CLICK HERE

GMH CADILLAC PLANGENERAL Motors has conceived a plan for a

compact-sized Cadillac hatchback built off a

new rear-wheel drive platform being devised

by Holden in Australia, according to US

automotive website Edmunds.com.

The website said GM product czar Bob Lutz

was behind the plan, which will help boost

awareness and sales in Europe. Aimed at the

BMW 1 Series and related rivals, the car will sit

below Cadillac’s current front-drive (and Saab-

built) entry-level model, the BLS. “We are looking

at the possibility of rear-wheel drive, but nothing

is decided just yet. (This layout) provides the best

possible basis for agility,” Mr Lutz said, adding

it would also “be required to support four-wheel

drive.” Holden’s work on this platform, which is

smaller than the Zeta architecture underpinning

the VE Commodore, was fi rst hinted at with the

Torana TT36 concept shown in 2004.

BMW M5 sedan

More buyers. More prospects. More cars sold.More buyers. More prospects. More cars sold.

IT MIGHT seem crazy to think a car-maker could seriously endow one if its road-going sedans with as much sheer power and dynamic ability as the BMW M5. This is a car with towering abilities you’ll

rarely get to experience on the road, where the astronomical 373kW of V10 power and massively competent braking and suspension make it virtually racetrack-ready despite its luxe presentation and subtle exterior. But if you like the idea of knowing there’s barely anything else on the road that is as brilliantly capable and commodious as this, then where else would you want to go? The BMW M5 defi nes how close to the extremes it is possible to get with a tractable, luxurious road car.

GoAuto’s latest road test www.goauto.com.au

OCTOBER:Alfa Romeo Spider convertibleBMW Z4 CoupeFerrari 599 coupeFord Falcon BFII rangeFPV BFII rangeFPV BFII luxury sedanHolden Captiva SUV rangeMazda6 dieselMercedes-Benz Sprinter vanMercedes-Benz CLS/CLK/E/ML63 AMGPorsche Cayman 2.7 coupePorsche Boxster convertibleToyota Aurion sedan rangeVolkswagen Touareg 3.0 TDI

New model diary: CLICK HERE

Launch Padbrought to you by

ROAD TEST: CLICK HERE

Toyota Aurion

Ferrari 599

BMW Z4 Coupe

HORWATH JOINS DELOITTEHORWATH Motor Industry Services is to merge its operations with Deloitte Growth Solutions and is to be re-branded under the Deloitte name from December 1.

The managing director of Horwath Motor Industry Services, Wayne Pearson, told GoAutoNews that the merger would bring together the Horwath specialty in automotive distribution and retail and Deloitte’s strengths with clients in the car manufacturing and parts manufacturing side of the business. The move follows very strong expansion of Horwath’s consulting services in Asia, especially in China. Deloitte will add signifi cantly to the backend support for this new business growth which might otherwise have been restricted by lack of resources if Horwath continued alone.

“Horwath clients will be dealing with the same people and the same team. But they will get the added benefi t of a great backend and the extra network resources of a bigger fi rm,” Mr Pearson said. He said the Deloitte brand was also better known in Asia. This would streamline the approvals of contracts because it would not be necessary to have to “sell the Horwath name” in addition to selling the services on the table. Horwaths benchmarks the fi nancial performance of more than 700 Australian and NZ car dealers, offers training in sales, parts and service business performance and runs a business academy for up-and-coming senior management in dealerships.

The accounting practice of Horwath Sydney will be included in the merger but the Horwath accounting practices in all other states will remain under the Horwath franchise. Horwath Motor Industry Services operations in other states will be merged with Deloitte. – JOHN MELLOR