The i45 is the brand’s latest creation and is predicted to sell like hot cakes. Even buyers who haven’t previously considered the brand as a ‘blue chip’ alternative will certainly find the model appealing.

Most will agree that the i45 looks great from almost every angle. Not everyone is fond of the loud front grille treatment though. However, on the whole, the styling of this midsized family chariot is very impressive, strikingly reminiscent of the likes of an E-Class Mercedes Benz model. This is chiefly attributable to the design team, who derived style cues from prestige carmakers such as Mercedes, BMW and Lexus. Aptly, the i45 is a standout; definitely turning some heads (the first time I saw one on the roads, I had to do a double-take when I saw the Hyundai badge).

The 2.4-litre 4-cylinder inline GDI engine produces modest power. Acceleration isn’t perfect, but its responsive enough. The torque levels sit around 148kW and 250Nm respectively. Surprisingly, the i45 weighs in at a very light 1506 kilograms (manual) / 1528 kilograms (auto), while most other category competitors are about +1600 kilograms. The light weight is principally attributable to the fuel consumption rates – 7.9 litres/100kms – a notable figure given its sizeable dimensions. The enhanced fuel economy is also a byproduct of the low drag coefficient of 0.28 Cd (many other competitors have a number above 0.30 Cd)

Technically the i45 is classified as a mid-size contender. However, the considerable comfort and spaciousness is more in keeping with what you would expect from a large car. Boot/cargo space is huge and deep. Equally impressive is its range of standard features. The upholstery combines leather (predominantly) and fabric. The mid-spec ‘Elite’ and high-end ‘Premium’ models however, come with FULL leather interior, which is comfortable and supple. Drivers can expect all the bells and whistles as standard, including six-airbags with Active Front Headrests, ESC Stability Control with TCS, ABS, EBD and BAS; Hill Start Assist Control (HAC); Dusk Sensing Headlamps; Front Fog lamps; LED Rear Combination Lamps, HMSL, Side Indicators; Hyundai Active Locking Operation; 16-inch Alloy Wheels with Full Size Spare; Dual Exhaust with Chrome Tip; Black Piano Finish Inserts on doors, centre fascia and vents; Cruise Control – steering wheel mounted (on automatic model) and USB audio input with iPod compatibility. Thats almost astounding considering its size, price tag and the fact that that it’s a base model.

Those who want to go the mid-spec model can expect the addition of 17-inch alloys with full size spare; Push Button Start with Proximity Smart Key; Automatic Climate Control; Rear Parking Sensors; Paddle Shifters – steering wheel mounted and Rain sensing wipers.

Alternatively, if you are in the market for the top shelf ‘Premium’ i45, a Panorama glass roof with power one touch safety; 18-inch alloys; Amplitude Selective Dampers (ASD); Electrochromatic Rear View Mirror; Premium Audio (Woofer & AMP); Electric driver and passenger seats are all features.

Throttle response is instant, while gear changes are smooth and refined on account of Hyundai’s six-speed automatic transmission (sealed unit filled with transmission fluid and good for the life of the car).
Despite a lack of torque in the early rev range, the drivetrain as a whole is adequate for urban driving. The hydraulic power assisted steering system is well weighted, even at considerable speed and parking is easy. The ride is firm but not harsh, and generally compliant. Braking is well sorted and reassuring too. There is some body roll in windy conditions, however the i45 still retains its grip and the overall drive is a pleasant experience.

The i45 epitomises Hyundai’s efforts to raise the bar. It will surely forge itself as a strong contender in the midsize category, offering a prestigious ride at a reasonable price point.

The Korean automaker juggernaut have just launched their third model to the Australian market for this year, and like its next of kin (the i30), the i20 will certainly forge itself as a strong competitor in its segment. The Australian light car segement is a tough one; the i20 will join 17 other brands and several variants, including the Toyota Yaris, Suzuki Swift, Honda Jazz and Mazda 2.

Like its competitors, the i20 delivers those big-car features in a small package. Built in India, the new model precedes Hyundai’s contemporary design philosophy of “Fluidic Sculpture”. Nonetheless, the external aesthetic resonates strong character lines, spanning from bonnet to rear and characterises a sense of contemporary ‘cool’. The styling also incorporates a fresh front grille and black air dam treatment; a step up from the likes of the i30.

The i20 is offered in 3 model specs – Active, Elite, and Premium. All of these are jam-packed with features. The standards include an air-conditioned glove box, keyless entry, central locking, alarm, Electric Folding side mirrors/windows, USB, full iPod compatibility, speed sensing automatic door locking which Hyundai calls HALO (Hyundai Active Locking Operation). Pretty impressive given the RRP of $14,990.

Fortunately, the cheap price tag doesn’t equate to impaired safety. Standard safety features include ABS brakes and EBD, ESC Stability Control, Traction Control System across the range. Driver and Front passenger airbags are offered at the entry level (Active) variant, while the Elite and Premium trims come fitted with additional Front-side and curtain airbags. If Hyundai had it their way the entire lineup would come fitted with all six airbags as standard, but factory limitations and the looming launch date impeded this possibility.

The interior trim and switchgear is aesthetically pleasant and well positioned. The seats feature leather accents and come complete with a driver’s side leather armrest. The higher trims offer comfortably sculpted seats, but the entry level ‘Active’ variant seats aren’t as accommodating or comfortable. The i20 gives its drivers plenty to boast about, but it does disappoint with its hard plastics that characterise the dashboard and door trim.

In terms of the drive, a 1.4-litre petrol engine or 1.6-litre petrol engine are offered. The 1.4-litre engine is fitted to all ‘Active’ models (73.5 kW and 136Nm of torque = not the quickest drive). Initial acceleration from a standstill is good but a little leadfooted behaviour is required to keep up the moderate pace. Albeit the lacklustre powertrain, the i20 sports really low fuel consumption (just 6.0-litres/100km for manual, 6.4-litres for auto).

Hyundai Automotive Group do in fact build an i20 CRDi powered by a 1.4-litre diesel, producing 67kW and 224Nm of torque, which would certainly be warmly welcomes addition to the lineup.

The i20 doesn’t let down in terms of handling. It tackles corners with agility, even with considerable speed and there is no body roll. The steering is pristinely accurate too. The suspension is firm and at times sloppy in terms of compliance, but never harsh. This is a let-down considering the i30′s impeccable suspension setup.

Overall – the i20 looks good, handles well and epitomises the brand’s value for money philosophy.

New i20 range – Manufacturer’s List Price:
i20 Active 1.4-litre petrol manual 3-door $14,990
i20 Active 1.4-litre petrol automatic 3-door $16,990
i20 Active 1.4-litre petrol manual 5-door $15,990
i20 Active 1.4-litre petrol automatic 3-door $17,990
i20 Elite 1.6-litre petrol manual 5-door $18,490
i20 Elite 1.6-litre petrol automatic 5-door $20,490
i20 Premium 1.6-litre petrol manual 5-door $21,490
i20 Premium 1.6-litre petrol automatic 5-door $23,490
Optional metallic/mica paint $320.00

The revised model (ST-L) gains more equipment in order to forge itself as a capable market competitor against the likes of Toyota’s Prado and Mitsubishi’s Pajero. Accompanying the revised visual design are several equipment features, including 17-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, Bluetooth capability, dual zone air conditioning, steering wheel-mounted buttons, and room for seven passengers. A little disappointing is the fact that the aircon feature doesn’t serve the third row of seats.

For a price just shy of $57,000 customers can also expect electric, heated front seats, leather trim, keyless ignition, reversing sensors, roof rails, fog lights and curtain airbags (for all rows). Those opting towards the Ti flagship model can enjoy SAT-NAV, a rear DVD system, brighter xenon headlights, reversing camera, a sunroof, and iPod connectivity.

On the safety front, the major revisions have not extended to structural changes. The previous model scored an ANCAP rating of 4, however the updated version now includes Stability Control as a standard feature. If you’re opting towards the entry-level ST, forget about curtain airbags.

Internally (and cosmetically), the new Pathfinder is a decent step up from its predecessor. The new aesthetic maintains the basic layout with a few extra touches including silver accents and illuminating puddle lights in the bottom of the mirrors. These offer some sophistication, however the use of plastics throughout the interior dampens the stylishness. Other features include the centre console, cupholders and a split glove box. The seats can be split along a 40-20-40-split fold and the rear seats can be folded into the floor. Comfort is not great unfortunately, with restricted passenger legroom and strangely lumpy seats that do not offer considerable support.

In terms of the drive, this 2.5-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel is very capable. Mustering a vigorous 140kW of power, it delivers 450Nm of torque just shy of 2000rpm as it gruffs and roars with the revs. Push the pedal to the carpet and there is a solid and exhilarating output to be enjoyed. On the plus side, hills won’t affect the performance either. Standard is the six-speed manual, while the five-speed automatic is probably the more desirable option for prospective urban-dwelling buyers. The new Pathfinder is definitely distinct; more like a truck than a city-slicking softroader, handling bumps and cracks with ease, armed and ready for adventure. Stability control offers sturdiness in slippery conditions and avid offroad adventurers will be pleased with the four-wheel drive twist knob and range of ratios.

Fuel economy is claimed to be 9 litres / 100km with the auto version, which is good for this type of vehicle.

Perhaps not the best vehicle for the urban-dwelling drivers out there, the Pathfinder is for the keen off-road driver. Equipped with some serious hardware, this strident diesel is not refined or accustomed to the “burbs”, but has the rugged aura perfectly suited to challenging terrains and big road trips.

Specifications:
Power 140kW at 4000rpm
Torque 450Nm at 2000rpm
Consumption and CO2 emissions 8.5L/100km and 224g/km (manual), 9.0L/100km and 238g/km (auto)
Transmission 6-speed manual or 5-speed auto
Weight 2156kg (man), 2175kg (auto)
Safety 4-star ANCAP rating; 6 airbags; stability control.

Pros
• Capable off-roader
• Raucous diesel
• Functional/flexible interior
• Lots of equipment

Cons
• Noisy engine
• Lacks refined steering
• Interior storage could be improved
• Restricted passenger space.

Price: $59,490 plus on-road costs

The deep growl of its engine coupled with the resonant bellow of the upshifts makes for auditory perfection, while the downshifts introduce a booming snarl that echoes through the quad pipes.

Equally impressive to its bark is its bite (a.k.a. the drive). Like its predecessor, the GranCabrio doesn’t hesitate when the throttle is enacted. Furthermore, it won’t whiten your knuckles or shock your neck. With its lofty 1980-kilogram kerb weight it manages to power out an impressive 323kW in a startlingly orderly manner. With a price tag just shy of $339,000, this beauty is sure to attract a more astute clientele rather than thrill-seeking racer types. Looking to specifics, we see paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel and a ZF-sourced six-speed auto transmission that is as intuitive as it is responsive, even in the face of compromising road conditions. Take your pick between the comfort or sport modes. Gripping strongly to the road, the former (default) option offers its driver an unruffled sporty, yet comfortable ride, and the latter a sharper ‘racier’ ride. Despite the powerful drive, fuel efficiency is surprisingly good for a V8 sportscar. Usage levels sit around the 16L/100km mark.

Stowing the roof takes 20 seconds at the touch of a button. Despite its long size (the longest in its segment in the Australian market), redeploying the roof consumes considerable boot space. On the plus however are the well-appointed, luxurious and supportive seats (perhaps only ideal for those under 180cm though). Rear leg and headspace is good but not exceptional. Wind intrusion in the cabin is particularly harsh too, especially for rear passengers. If it’s just front passengers, the optional wind blocker can dampen this.

The GranCabrio also delivers on the visual front, with an assertively carved front end and a low extended chassis. Inside, leather upholstery, a cloth roof, and wood grain accents characterize the interior aesthetic, offset by a conservatively styled dashboard. The steering wheel is thickly rimmed, providing a sturdy and accurate sensation. A-pillars do hinder the driver’s view in the corners though.

All in all, the GranCabrio seems like a serious contender in its segment.

The new model is offered in both its standard wheelbase form (SWB) and long wheelbase form (LWB) in most of the range, from Premium, Portfolio to Supersport. A number of engines are also available per variant. The Supersport variant however, only comes as a supercharged V8.

A striking characteristic of the new XJ is the modern glass roof design. It creates a refreshing atmosphere for passengers and gives the roofline a distinctly sleeker appearance. The interior is similarly updated, featuring chrome accents, leather upholstery, black inserts and intricate detailing.

In-car entertainment is on par with Jag’s luxury standards. The Jaguar XJ Portfolio and Supersport models are fitted with a 1200-Watt Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system and a dual-view eight-inch LCD screen. The screen allows the driver view satellite navigation information, at the same time as other entertainment features.

Buyers may choose between the 3.0 litre turbo diesel V6 engine, 5.0 litre V8, or 5.0 litre V8 Portfolio or Supersport engines. The foremost version offers the best fuel economy, with consumption results of 7L/100km and emissions of 184gm of CO2 per kilometre. Alternatively, the supercharged 5.0-litre V8 delivers an impressive 375kW of power. A detuned version of this same engine is offered for the Portfolio variant, delivering a lower 346kW. The notorious aluminium body structure weighs 150kg less than its nearest rival and further enhances the drive.

The XJ is currently available for sale, starting at $198,800 for the lower-spec variants and excluding on road costs.

XJ 3.0D SWB Premium Luxury $198,800?XJ 3.0D LWB Premium Luxury $206,800?XJ 5.0 V8 SWB Premium Luxury $251,000?XJ 5.0 V8 LWB Premium Luxury $259,000?XJ 5.0 V8 SWB Portfolio $274,800?XJ 5.0 S/C SWB Portfolio (346kW) $311,000?XJ 5.0 S/C SWB Supersport (375kW) $354,800?XJ 5.0 S/C LWB Supersport (375kW) $367,800

The new model is offered in both its standard wheelbase form (SWB) and long wheelbase form (LWB) in most of the range, from Premium, Portfolio to Supersport. A number of engines are also available per variant. The Supersport variant however, only comes as a supercharged V8.

A striking characteristic of the new XJ is the modern glass roof design. It creates a refreshing atmosphere for passengers and gives the roofline a distinctly sleeker appearance. The interior is similarly updated, featuring chrome accents, leather upholstery, black inserts and intricate detailing.

In-car entertainment is on par with Jag’s luxury standards. The Jaguar XJ Portfolio and Supersport models are fitted with a 1200-Watt Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system and a dual-view eight-inch LCD screen. The screen allows the driver view satellite navigation information, at the same time as other entertainment features.

Buyers may choose between the 3.0 litre turbo diesel V6 engine, 5.0 litre V8, or 5.0 litre V8 Portfolio or Supersport engines. The foremost version offers the best fuel economy, with consumption results of 7L/100km and emissions of 184gm of CO2 per kilometre. Alternatively, the supercharged 5.0-litre V8 delivers an impressive 375kW of power. A detuned version of this same engine is offered for the Portfolio variant, delivering a lower 346kW. The notorious aluminium body structure weighs 150kg less than its nearest rival and further enhances the drive.

The XJ is currently available for sale, starting at $198,800 for the lower-spec variants and excluding on road costs.

XJ 3.0D SWB Premium Luxury $198,800?XJ 3.0D LWB Premium Luxury $206,800?XJ 5.0 V8 SWB Premium Luxury $251,000?XJ 5.0 V8 LWB Premium Luxury $259,000?XJ 5.0 V8 SWB Portfolio $274,800?XJ 5.0 S/C SWB Portfolio (346kW) $311,000?XJ 5.0 S/C SWB Supersport (375kW) $354,800?XJ 5.0 S/C LWB Supersport (375kW) $367,800

The new Sportage offers a revised look – clean and elegant from front to rear. There is also a wider range of choices offered to buyers.

Three different engines are offered:
• 2.0-litre petrol, which delivers 122 kW and 197 Nm of torque (five-speed manual and six-speed auto)
• 2.4-litre petrol with 130 kW and 227 Nm of torque (auto only)
• 2.0-litre R-diesel engine (shared with the Hyundai ix35) that puts out an impressive 135 kW and 392 Nm of torque (auto only). This choice is perhaps the most acclaimed pick.

Several standard safety and other features are also offered across the range. These include:
• 6 airbags
• Dynamax AWD system designed by Magna
• LED daytime running lights and push-button start with smart key.

Most notably, the higher-end spec version incorporates a feature typically only foun in luxury European vehicles – ventilated driver seats.

KIA Sportage Si 2WD Manual – $25,990
2.0L?KIA Sportage Si 2WD Auto – $27,990
2.0L?KIA Sportage SLi 4WD – $31,990
2.4L?KIA Sportage Platinum 4WD – $35,990
2.4L?KIA Sportage SLi 4WD – $34,990
2.0R diesel?KIA Sportage Platinum 4WD – $39,990

Other Features:
• 2.0L Theta II petrol (122kW / 197Nm)
• 5-spd manual / 6-spd automatic
• 17” alloy wheels (225/60R17) with full-size spare
• Body coloured door handles & mirrors
• Metallic silver painted ‘Schreyer’ grille
• Electric mirrors with side indicators
• Front fog lamps
• LED-look rear combinations lamps
• Steering wheel mounted audio remote
• Height adjustable driver’s seat
• 60:40 split folding rear seats
• Rear armrest with dual cup holders
• Rear seatback folding straps
• Flat woven cloth seat
• 6 airbags (w. rollover sens) & Active front headrests
• ESP with ABS, DBC, HAC
• Keyless entry with burglar alarm
• CD player (USB/iPod) / 6 speakers
• Auto cruise control
• Manual air-conditioner

SLI:
• 2.4L Theta II petrol (130kW / 227Nm) or
• 2.0L R diesel (135kW / 392Nm)
• 6-speed automatic transmission
• AWD (Dynamax)

SI model features plus:
• Chrome door handles
• Chrome ‘Schreyer’ grille & belt line moulding
• Rear spoiler
• Leather-wrapped s/wheel & shift knob
• Artificial leather covered door trim
• Rear view camera with in-mirror display
• Driver window auto up & down with safety function
• Auto light control (dusk sensors)
• 6-function trip computer
• Sunvisors with illumination and extension
• Dual zone full automatic climate control
• Electric driver’s seat lumbar support
• Tricot cloth seat

PLATINUM:
• 2.4L Theta II petrol (130kW / 227Nm) or
• 2.0L R diesel (135kW / 392Nm)
• 6-speed automatic transmission
• AWD (Dynamax)

SLi model features plus:
• 18” alloy wheels (235/55R18) with full-size spare
• Privacy glass
• LED type daytime running light (DRL)
• Power driver’s seat (8 way)
• Ventilated driver’s seat
• Front seat warmers
• Leather seats
• 6CD changer with external amplifier & sub-woofer
• Panoramic sunroof
• Smart key with button start
• Windshield wipers with rain sensor
• Cooling glove box
• Luggage net
• Back warning sensors

ENGINES:
• 2.0-litre / 122 kW Petrol
- Name / Type ‘Theta II’ / DOHC, four-cylinder in line, with dual CVVT
- Capacity 2.0-litres, 1998cc
- Max power 122Kw @ 6200rpm
- Max torque 197Nm @ 4600rpm
- Fuel system Multi-point injection

• 2.4-litre / 130kW Petrol
- Name / Type ‘Theta II’ / DOHC, four-cylinder in line, with dual CVVT
- Capacity 2.4-litres, 2359cC
- Max power 130Kw @ 6000rpm
- Max torque 227Nm @ 4000rpm
- Fuel system Multi-point injection

• 2.0-litre / 135 Kw Diesel
- Name / Type ‘R2.0’ / DOHC, four-cylinder in line, with single VGT
- Capacity 2.0-litres, 1995cc
- Max power 135kW @ 4000rpm
- Max torque 393Nm @ 1800-2500rpm
- Fuel system CRDi, common-rail, high pressure, direct injection
- Turbo system Variable geometry turbocharger (VGT)

SUSPENSION & DAMPING:
• Front Fully independent by subframe-mounted MacPherson Struts
• Coil springs
• Gas-filled shock absorbers
• Anti-roll stabiliser bar.
• Rear Fully independent by subframe-mounted multi-link

STEERING:
• Type Hydraulic power-assisted rack and pinion
• Overall ratio 16.1:1
• Gearing 2.99 turns lock-to-lock
• Turning circle 10.58 metres

BRAKES:
• Power Tandem 8+9 inch booster
• Front 300 x 28mm ventilated discs
• Rear 284 x 10mm solid discs
• Parking brake Hand operated lever
• ABS 4-channel anti-lock system with EBD
• BAS Boosts braking power during emergency stops
• DBC Downhill brake control maintains 8kph during descents
• Braking 100-to-0 kph 43.5 metres

Invited by the motoring group RACV, households can apply one of 180 limited places on the trial project, which is funded partly by the state government. The $5 million, five-year trial will include a ballot system in order to accommodate the expected influx of family applications. Each household will be supplied an electric vehicle for 3 months.

The culminated feedback will capitulate beneficial information about day-to-day usage of electric cars.

The announcement of the trial accompanied the Aussie delivery of the much-awaited Mitsubishi MiEV and precedes a much wider rollout of eccentric Asian vehicles to Australia.

As part of the trial, the state will install 180 charging points for the participating vehicles. According to the state’s Premier, John Brumby, “Most other trials only use one type of vehicle and one type of charging point,” Mr Brumby said. “This is testing more things in real-world conditions.”

According to Brumby, 76 submissions have already been submitted to the government, from various businesses wanting to take part in the trial. He asserts the trial will be a “big step forward” for the state.

“This trial will expand as we move through the year and it will be, in many ways, the most comprehensive trial of electric vehicles in any city, anywhere in the world.”

The 918 Spyder will be the German sportscar specialist’s first hybrid supercar. Built in left-hand drive only however, Australians will be strapped to get their hands on one of the 900 production cars. This is largely due to the limited market here and the fact that Australia is the only place in the world where you cannot register a left-hand drive vehicle.

According to Managing Director of Porsche Cars Australia, there have been many bold responses to the car and still acknowledges its small, but still existent sales potentiality, noting that “Collectors will always be interested.”

The new model’s predecessor is the iconic, road-going supercar, the Carrera GT. Though few details have been publicly disclosed about the Spyder 918, there are of course, countless rumours. According to some sources, the car is capable of 0-100km//h time of under four seconds, while top speed is rumoured to be in excess of 300km/h. Most notably, Porsche alleges the successor will have an impressive fuel consumption of approximately 3 litres/100km, with CO2 emissions of 70 grams/kilometre.

Currently only one 918 Spyder has been produced by the powerhouse for a motor show display work. According to Winkler, the main production work lies with the plug-in hybrid drive system, a process which has only just been commenced. Though the motor show model is functional, he still predicted a minimum production period of 3 years, noting that the existing car works, “But it’s very much prototype components… The production date hasn’t been set yet, but there is some detailed development work still to be done, particularly in the battery technology and the cost of that technology. If you produced the car today the cost would be prohibitive. But in three or four years time things will have improved.”

“Development is going ahead in leaps and bounds, and it takes that long anyway to get some of those components reliable enough for everyday use.”

Development of the new vehicle is based in Weissach and it will reportedly be manufacturered in Zuffenhausen at the main factory.

All things considered, it is unlikely that the Spyder 918 is destined for a racing future, with Winkler conceding it is unlikely to be a track car.

On the outset the ‘updated’ versions are strikingly reminiscent of the originals. The superficial changes are restrained but definitely improve the overall visual aesthetic. An emphasised grille, framed headlights and LED light rings culminate to create a cleaner front design. Rear augmentations are also faint, but still clean-cut and contemporary. L-shaped LED red taillights have been incorporated, adding character to the aesthetic.

The drivability of the new Coupe & Convertible is considerably improved. The BMW 335i Convertible comes equipped with a seven-speed Sports Automatic Double-Clutch Transmission (DCT). The steering-wheel paddle shift system has been revised and simplified, allowing one side to change up and one side to change down. The drive actually sounds as good as it performs too. There are several drive options available to the driver. Keeping it in the full automatic mode allows aptly for holding gears and appropriate shifting, however discernibly, manual gear shifting offers more control. Notably, the vehicle’s 3.0-litre engine roars from 0-100km/h in just 5.4 seconds. The newly incorporated engine delivers an impressive 225 kW and 200 Nm. The handling is superbly capable, adapting audibly from long stretches to sudden and blind turns. As to the suspension and power delivery, the ride is smooth and unyielding on account of the newly incorporated single turbo engine and standard suspension updates.

Another significant alteration is the M Sports package – now a standard equipment feature. Both variants gain numerous features including:
• 19 inch double spoke light-allow wheels
• M Sport door sills
• Sports multi-function steering wheel
• M Sport suspension (this can be freely ‘deleted’ if you prefer your handling to be like an M3)
• Comfort Access System
• LED light elements
• USB audio interface

Moving on to the 320d Coupe. Both diesel variants are now available in six-speed manual transmission with auto start-stop technology. You can also opt for the 6-speed automatic. The 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged diesel now delivers an improved 135 kW and 380Nm of torque, despite a reduced fuel economy of 4.7L/100km for the manual or 5.1 for the automatic. In terms of the handling capabilities, sharp cornering is less breezy given the absence of M-sport suspension. However, the change is distinct and offers a refined, comfortable ride, in keeping with its elegant looks. The drive design is executed well, given its combination of fuel efficiency, and a performance and audibly improved diesel engine.

Internally, the 3 Series remains true to its genes; combining comfort and sporty elegance. The well-designed cabin features comfortable, dynamic seats, new colour schemes and upholstery options galore. There is an extensive list of standard features including:
• Cruise control
• Climate control
• Heated exterior mirrors
• Partial electric seat adjustment (front – Coupe)
• Full electric seat adjustment with memory (Convertible)
• BMW Professional Radio system (MP3 compatible CD player)
• Bi-Xenon headlights
• Front/rear foglights
• Automatic windscreen wipers
• 17 inch light alloy wheels
• Electrically operated 3 part steel roof (Convertible)

An upgrade to the 325i and 330d sees you gain full electric sports front seats with lumbar support (330d only) and memory, Comfort Access System, Business Navigation System, cruise control with brake function and DSC with extended functions, with the 330d also featuring front Park Distance Control and the HiFi Loudspeaker system.

Safety is extensive (and standard). Both variants come standard with all the bells and whistles you’d expect from a European car, including:
• Dual front, front side, full length side curtain airbags
• Dynamic Stability Control
• Antilock Braking System
• Brake assist
• Cornering Brake Control
• Active front head restraints
• Rain sensor
• Rear park distance control

There are numerous other options and option packs are available too. The new range undoubtedly carries on the BMW legacy of sporty, elegant vehicles. The Coupe variant begins at a reasonable $65,600, whereas the Convertible is around the $78,500 mark.

The New BMW 3 Series Coupé and Convertible Australian Pricing:
320d Coupe: $65,600*
320d Convertible: $78,500*
325i Coupe: $84,900*
325i Convertible: $98,700*
330d Coupe: $94,700*
330d Convertible: $107,700*
335i Sport Coupe: $116,700*
335i Sport Convertible: $129,900*

2011 BMW 3 Series Coupe & Convertible Engine Specifications:

BMW 320d Coupé:
• Four-cylinder in-line turbo diesel engine
• Capacity: cc 1,995
• Max output: kW/rmp 135/4,000
• Max torque: Nm/ rmp 380 /1,900-2,750
• Acceleration 0-100km/h sec 7.5 (7.6)
• Top speed: 237km (235)
• Average fuel consumption (to EU Comb Cycle): l/100km 4.7 (5.3)
• CO2 emissions to EU standard: g/km 125 (140)

BMW 320d Convertible:
• Four-cylinder in-line turbo diesel engine
• Capacity: cc 1,995
• Max output: kW/rpm 135/4,000
• Max torque: Nm/rpm 380/1,900-2,750
• Acceleration 0-100km/h sec 8.3 (8.4)
• Top speed: km/h 228 (226)
• Average fuel consumption (to EU Comb Cycle): l/100km 5.1 (5.6)
• CO2 emissions to EU standard: g/km 135 (149)

BMW 325i Coupé:
• Six-cylinder in-line engine
• Capacity: cc 2497
• Max output: kW/rpm 160/6,500
• Max torque: Nm/rpm 250/2,750-4,250
• Acceleration 0-100km/h sec 0-100km/h sec 6.7 (7.1)
• Top speed: km/h 250 (250)
• Average fuel consumption (to EU Comb Cycle): l/100km 8.7 (9.1)
• CO2 emissions to EU standard: g/km 203 (212)

BMW 325i Convertible:
• Six-cylinder in-line engine
• Capacity: cc 2,497
• Max output: kW/rpm 160/6,500
• Max torque: Nm/rpm 250/2,750-4,000
• Acceleration 0-100km/h sec: 7.8 (8.4)
• Top speed: km/h 242 (240)
• Average fuel consumption (to EU Comb Cycle): 9.2 (9.5)
• CO2 emissions to EU standard: g/km 214 (222)

BMW 330d Coupé:
• Six-cylinder in-line turbo diesel engine
• Capacity: cc 2993
• Max output: 180/4000
• Max torque: 520/1750-3000
• Acceleration 0-100km/h sec 6.1
• Top speed: 250
• Average fuel consumption (to EU Comb Cycle): 6.2
• CO2 emissions to EU standard: 164

BMW 330d Convertible:
• Six-cylinder in-line turbo diesel engine
• Capacity: cc 2993
• Max output: kW/rpm 180/4000
• Max torque: Nm/rpm 520/1750-3000
• Acceleration 0-100km/h sec 6.5
• Top speed: km/h 250
• Average fuel consumption (to EU Comb Cycle): l/100km 6.4
• CO2 emissions to EU standard: g/km 170

BMW 335i M Sport Coupé
• Capacity: cc 2979
• Max output: kW/rpm 225/5800
• Max torque: Nm/rpm 400/1200-5000
• Acceleration 0-100km/h sec 0-100km/h sec 5.5 (5.4)
• Top speed: km/h 250 (250)
• Average fuel consumption (to EU Comb Cycle) 8.4 (8.4)
• CO2 emissions to EU standard: g/km 196 (196)

BMW 335i M Sport Convertible
• Capacity: cc 2979
• Max output: kW/rpm 225/5800
• Max torque: Nm/rpm 400/1200-5000
• Acceleration 0-100km/h sec: 0-100km/h sec 5.8 (5.7)
• Top speed: km/h 250 (250)
• Average fuel consumption (to EU Comb Cycle): 8.8 (8.8)
• CO2 emissions to EU standard: g/km 205