Iconic G-Class
Devour any terrain and look great while doing it in the iconic boxy luxury of the G450d SUV. All for a price tag that makes it the best value G-Wagen of the current range, writes Metropol’s motoring man Ben Selby. The Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen is up there with some of motoring’s all-time greats (the […]
EYE of the TIGER: Blackwells
Synonymous with the strength, speed and commanding presence of the tiger, Chery’s Tiggo is taking over the Christchurch cityscape, finds Metropol writer Ben Selby. Founded in 1997, the Chery brand has fast become one of the largest vehicle exporters globally, selling 14 million vehicles worldwide. Having re-entered our market with a wide selection […]
Oh, won’t you buy me a Mercedes Benz
The Mercedes-Benz GLC meets the moment with an extra dosage of fuel frugality in the form of the new GLC350e. Ben Selby takes it for a drive. The ‘e’ part of the equation refers to the addition of plug-in-hybrid technology. The GLC350e is capable of 132km (NEDC) on battery power alone and an […]
Worth the wait – Honda Prelude 2026
One of Honda’s most iconic coupes is back in production after a 25-year hiatus. Metropol writer Ben Selby discovers what’s different. While the nostalgia is real, this sixth generation Honda Prelude is a bit of a departure from its predecessors, especially underneath. Power comes from a 2.0L e:HEV Dual Motor Hybrid Four Cylinder […]
PACKING a PUNCH
It’s easy to appreciate the appeal of a Mini, writes Metropol’s Ben Selby. While the current model has evolved considerably from the original design by Alec Issigonis introduced nearly 70 years ago, the qualities that define a Mini – its enjoyable driving dynamics, vibrant personality, and engaging experience – remain evident. In terms […]
Evoquative – Range Rover Evoque review
It’s hard to imagine the current Land Rover family without the Range Rover Evoque, writes Metropol’s motoring man Ben Selby. The ‘baby’ variant of the fully fledged and iconic Range Rover has been immensely popular since its inception in 2011, by encompassing the same level of luxury and all-terrain tech but in a […]
Built to thrill
The Mercedes G-Wagen is up there with some of motoring’s all-time greats. Its distinctive angular silhouette and ability to look and feel at home both in the rugged and urban jungle results in a car which just about everyone recognises, car fanatic or not. While the ultimate expression of the G-wagen is the […]
Style. Power. Intelligence. Gary Cockram
The world-class Geely brand – and striking Geely Starray – lands in North Canterbury, introducing a bold new chapter in Rangiora’s automotive market. Fusing striking style with advanced hybrid capability, the Geely Starray EM-i offers premium comfort, intelligent features, and performance tailored to Kiwi lifestyles. WIth Gary Cockram Rangiora’s $3000 cash-back deal, this […]
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 […]
