An electrifying ride

When I picked up the Mercedes EQC 4matic from Armstrong Mercedes the only thing that rattled my head was that name, EQC. Something that, when I posted on Instagram, I got a few messages about.   But as this beautiful machine glided out onto the motorway and I placed my foot on the brushed alloy […]

Upping the game

After nine years, we have a new Toyota Yaris. The first of Toyota’s new TNGA “B” Platform, and it happens to be rather nice.   As far as looks go, the Yaris is more rakish and aggressive than its predecessor, with a gaping whale shark-esque grill and frowning headlights, it certainly looks like this urban […]

Caring for your pride and joy: KBL Automotive

When it comes to taking care of your German car, look no further than KBL Automotive. KBL, formerly Kevin Burt Ltd, really is the definitive one stop shop for your Mercedes, BMW, Audi or Volkswagen.     Incorporating all the latest dealer diagnostic equipment, your C-Class, A4 or 3-Series will be well catered for, thanks […]

A model makeover: Honda Cars

The Honda CRV has been with us for many a moon, and for many SUV owners, it remains a crowd favourite. The CRV has been given an automotive nip and tuck for 2021, so what exactly has changed?   Well the outside benefits from a few styling tweaks, such as a redesigned front and rear […]

Very sweet turbo

When we think of big SUVs from Mercedes AMG, big V8-bellowing all terrain missiles spring to mind.   In curry terms, the range topping GLE 63 AMG is the full chicken vindaloo, hot and spicy. Whereas the $180,100 GLE 53 AMG is more of a chicken madras, in other words, a milder offering in terms […]

Premium all-rounder

The Mazda CX30 blew us away a few months back when we tested the mid-range GTX and flagship Limited. So, what about the base GSX? Is the bare essentials CX30 worth your time?   The GSX at $41,490, gets a very refined 2L four-cylinder Skyactiv engine with 114kW/200Nm. Mazda’s i-Activsense safety comes as standard which […]

Sublime wagon, cool ride

Wagons will always be much cooler than SUVs. One manufacturer whose history is littered with wagons is Volvo. Here is their new V60 Estate T8 AWD R Design, and it is something mighty special.   The T8 part means a 2.0 four-cylinder petrol engine with supercharging and turbocharging, coupled to a plug-in 64kW battery pack, […]

Definitive one-stop-shop: Hammonds

We have all been there. A slight lapse of concentration by you or someone else and before you know it, your pride and joy is no longer factory fresh. Hammonds Collision Centre knows these things can happen, which is why it’s still Christchurch’s leading panel and paint repair shop.   Located at 46 Battersea Street, […]

Spirited drive a nice surprise: Honda

The Honda Civic RS Sport Sensing Sedan was one of the biggest surprises of last year. A strong turbo VTEC powertrain, oodles of kit, and great driving dynamics put it on par with the very best in the small sedan segment. Now for 2020, the Civic Hatch gets the RS Sport Sensing treatment, and here […]

Great things come in small packages

Since Chinese firm SAIC resurrected MG, the British namesake has been increasing its New Zealand presence in a big way and the most popular MG on Kiwi streets right now is the MG3 Supermini.   At a seriously low starting price of $17,990, the MG3 offers astonishing value. Under the bonnet sits a 1.5 litre […]