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 […]
Power Up: VP Batteries
Don’t let a flat battery slow you down. Nothing derails your day, or holiday road trip, faster than discovering a flat battery. Whether it’s in your car, motorhome, motorcycle, tractor or boat, finding a replacement is frustrating enough, but fitting it and disposing of the old one adds another layer of hassle. That’s […]
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, […]
On the road in comfort: Carpet Binders
A fast fix for your homes on wheels if you’re exploring the South Island by motorhome or caravan. Make it feel like home with custom-fitted loose-lay carpet mats. Located in a Christchurch workshop, the team of carpet-edging specialists at Carpet Binders has made a business out of turning the cold, hard floors of […]
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 […]
The Showroom: Christchurch European
At 522 Blenheim Road lives the latest of everything luxury in the automotive world. The Showroom is a dedicated, new undercover space showcasing an even larger selection of our luxury vehicles,” says Christchurch European managing director Niki Mills. “This impressive new site allows us to display an additional 60 luxury and classic vehicles, […]
Wired for sound: OEM Audio
Driving with your favourite sounds is one of life’s great pleasures. If you’re on the road daily, it’s worth investing in the quality of your audio. Upgrading your car audio is easy. OEM Audio leads with products that look factory-fitted yet deliver next-generation technology. “We have our own branded audio units through to […]
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 […]
Hot tip: Agnew Bros
Blasting your heater on your commute to work is one of winter’s woes – what if there were other ways to warm up? Retrofitting in-car seat heaters is a sought-after choice to stay snug during wintry mornings or long road trips. Thanks to Christchurch’s Agnew Brothers, this comforting luxury isn’t far away. Whether […]
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