Collector’s edition – Aston Martin Vanquish
The first-generation Aston Martin Vanquish stands out in the back catalogue of one of the most coveted brands in motoring, writes Ben Selby. This is one luxurious drive. The Vanquish marks a transition period for Astons of old, teasing where the company would be headed with the dawn of the 21st century. Adding […]
Peppy performer
I’ve always struggled to get excited about the SUV-come-Coupe segment. This all changed lately when I sampled the brand new Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, writes Ben Selby. Enter an elegant refresh – essentially a streamlined and sportier version of the GLE SUV – the coupe’s flowing rear section and slippery looking accents are the […]
Pure Dark Horse
The term ‘dark horse’ refers to an underdog or a surprise winner, which is how Ford has positioned its first new Mustang brand in 21 years. Metropol writer Ben Selby saddles up for a test ride. Referred to as the Mustang ‘you never saw coming’, the Dark Horse by Ford is a hardcore, […]
G-whizz. The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G580 with EQ Technology
Whether roughing it in the most inhospitable climates or ferrying the Kardashians through Beverly Hills, the Mercedes-Benz G-Class is a legend. Metropol writer Ben Selby puts the G580 to the test. With the launch of each new generation, we have seen the same square-jawed profile of the Gelandewagen, or G-Wagen for short, injected […]
Adventure awaits: The new Kia Tasman ute
If the ute is one with our national identity, who is the biggest player? Metropol writer Ben Selby heads to Wellington to test the latest contender. The Ute is very much part of the Kiwi landscape. It’s part of our national identity and everyone has their favourite, or we know someone who has […]
The Great Escape
The newest incarnation of the ever-evolving Ford Escape Titanium is out now. Metropol writer Ben Selby spent a week with the latest from the Ford family. For the Ford Escape, one thing has remained constant through its many iterations: its ability to shake up and surprise one of the most competitive new car […]
Top Marques: Land Rover Defender at Christchurch European
What’s the best vehicle fit for purpose you may ask? Local luxury car specialist Josh Giles answers. Known for its iconic silhouette and rugged design, the Land Rover Defender continues its reign as a prestigious automotive option, available now at Christchurch European. It blends impressive off-road capability that excels in challenging terrain conditions […]
All electric all class: Honda Store Christchurch
Brand new and all-electric, Honda’s e:N1 SUV has received hefty fanfare – now that it’s hit New Zealand shores, Metropol writer Ben Selby puts it to the test thanks to Honda Store Christchurch. Mimicking much of its petrol HR-V counterpart in terms of design, the e:N1 still sports a clean, uncluttered look and […]
Timeless tradition: The Mercedes-Benz E300
Something elegant exudes from a traditional luxury sedan. Sure, the SUV is perhaps more practical, yet drifting along in a classically-proportioned four-door, quietly and reverently, has timeless appeal, writes Ben Selby. Mercedes-Benz are still flying the flag for traditional luxury, adding the new look W214 E-Class, in particular, the new E300, to their […]
Packing power and pounds: BMW M5 G90
A ‘point and shoot’ car of the highest order, the new BMW M5 G90 is a driver-focused dream of savage acceleration, writes Metropol’s Ben Selby. Each generation has seen its fair share of changes, with different power trains and even more technology thrown into the mix. This leads us to the latest M5 […]
