The new Alfa Romeo Mito
Comments OffThe new Alfa Romeo Mito is available now at Andrew Simms Alfa Romeo in Newmarket Auckland book a test drive or come in to view at their Newmarket Dealership or book online at www.andrewsimmseurpean.co.nz
Read about the new Alfa Romeo Mito below
Although Alfa Romeo has had small cars in the past, most famously the Alfa Romeo AlfaSud which started a line of cars that lead to the Alfa Romeo 147 in today’s range, the Alfa Romeo MiTo is significantly different in its positioning from previous models. Not only is it in the market sector below the AlfaSud and today’s 147, but also unlike the AlfaSud, which is was designed to compete mass market, every element of the MiTo places it firmly at the premium prestige end of its market sector.
The fact that the MiTo has been designed to be exclusively a three door car has provided the stylists at Alfa Romeo Centro Stile with the freedom to endow the MiTo with a new level of style, internally and externally, that has not been previously available in this market sector.
Most obviously is the way the MiTo tappers behind the ‘b’ pillar to provide not a just coupe style, but also shoulders over the rear wheels akin to those on the Alfa 8C sports car, that lead the eye to rear lights, which include the first of several class-firsts, the safety of LED rear lights replacing conventional light bulbs.
At the front, the shield-shaped grille is imposingly sited at the end of a sculpted V-shaped bonnet, flanked by clear lens and teardrop headlamps. In profile, the high waistline, flared wheel arches, disguised B-pillar and minimal rear overhang combine to communicate power, performance and agility.
Inside the cabin, the high quality interior feels like a car from a class above, with with additional touches such as its unique carbon fibre-look dashboard. The sporty dials are hooded and the central console comes with a satin finish. Careful soundproofing helps create a quiet and refined environment that optimises the inclusion of a quality sound system and integrated Blue & Me™.
The turbocharged Alfa MiTo delivers an engaging and rewarding driver experience. The turbocharged 1.4 litre 114 kW MiTo Sport delivers the type of power normally associated with a significantly larger engine as it accelerates from 0-100 kmh in 8 seconds, and continues to a top speed of 215 kmh, yet offers a combined fuel figure of just 6.5 litres 100 km.
Alfa Romeo’s innovative DNA system is another first for the class. A three-position switch, situated beside the gearlever, alters the throttle response and steering set-up for different driving environments – Dynamic, Normal and All Weather.
In Dynamic mode, the throttle response is quicker, the steering is sharper and the handling is more direct. For icy and loose surface environments the All Weather mode provides a more gentle response. Alfa Romeo’s Electronic Q2 limited slip differential heads a list of dynamic driver aids, including a long list of safety systems. Together, these all help deliver impressive driving dynamics and handling, along with sure-footed road holding capabilities.
In line with entertaining levels of performance and handling, the Alfa MiTo also boasts high levels of safety.
Designed and developed to achieve the highest possible scores in passive and active safety tests, the Alfa MiTo is one of the safest cars on the road, providing driver and passengers with a high level of protection.
In recognition of its safety credentials, the Alfa MiTo has already collected a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating.
Driver and occupant safety is paramount, and the specification of seven airbags including front airbags, window bags, sidebags and driver’s kneebag work with Alfa Romeo’s Self Aligning Head Restraint – a system that moves the head restraints closer to the neck of the front seat occupants to lessen the effect of whiplash in the event of an impact – is evidence of Alfa Romeo’s commitment to the highest possible safety standards.
During emergency braking, the Alfa MiTo automatically operates its hazard lights to alert other road users.
Both versions of the MiTo are well equipped with Trip computer, cruise control, aircon, remote locking and boot release, steering wheel audio controls, front armrest with locker, leather steering wheel, VDC with hill holder, front electric windows, DNA and a premium six speaker audio system headlining the standard equipment package.
The Alfa Romeo MiTo is launched in New Zealand in one versions highly equipped, high specification version, the 114 kW MiTo Sport that includes Blue&Me Bluetooth telematics with a USB connection, climate control air conditioning, sports bumpers, spoiler and pedals, rear parking sensors, Brembo Brakes, auto wipers, lights and interior mirror as well as front fog lights as the headlines in its standard equipment list.
The MiTo Sport is priced at $44,990 plus statutory charges and delivery.
Visit Andew Simms European today www.andrewsimmseuropean.co.nz
Source Alfa Romeo New Zealand and
FPV Launches Its Latest Model – The Stylish F6 E
Comments OffFord Performance Vehicles (FPV) have revealed the latest addition to their FG range with the unveiling of the all-new F6 E. Setting a new benchmark for luxury and performance, the launch of the F6 E ends months of public speculation of “will they or won’t they”.
Originally launched as a concept vehicle at the Melbourne International Motor Show earlier this year, the F6 E has been designed to satisfy calls from the market for more performance based executive vehicles.
“We launched this car at the Melbourne Motor Show as a concept vehicle and the expressions of interest in it have been enough to warrant us to go into a production run of the vehicle as a full-time addition to the range,” FPV General Manager Rod Barrett said.
“The F6 E will cater for the corner of the market – in particular executives – that want the performance and dynamics of the F6 with some added luxury appointments in subdued styling.
“Feedback from our customers leaves us confident that the F6 E will be a hit with those looking for something more from their performance vehicle,” Barrett added.
Powered by the high performance 4.0 litre turbo-charged DOHC 24 valve in-line six, the F6 E produces maximum power of 310kW at 5500 rpm and maximum torque of 565Nm across the range from 1950 to 5200 rpm.
The new F6 E features the ZF six-speed high-torque automatic transmission with Sequential Sports Shift as standard and boasts a fuel economy figure of 12.1L/100km.
The F6 E receives performance 355 x 32mm cross drilled and ventilated front rotors with Brembo 6-piston calipers and 330 x 28mm cross-drilled and ventilated rear rotors with Brembo 4-piston caliper as standard.
Executive Styling
“The styling of the F6 E differentiates itself from its F6 sibling through the use of a softer colour palette and more luxurious finishes and trim,” Barrett said.
“As opposed to the overtly sporty F6, the F6 E is more subtle, with striking chrome accents and a refined lip spoiler replacing the bright colours, and large rear winds found on the other models – the colour coding of the ‘racoon-eyes’ also helps the F6 E to keep a ‘low profile’.”
The upper radiator and lower bumper grille mesh are finished in black chrome, while the front driving lamps are highlighted with a high chrome bezel and complemented by full body coloured bumpers.
The new FPV badge takes centre stage on both the front and rear of the vehicle and the new F6 E badge features on the rear and side panels.
The 19-inch wheel design was custom matched to the F6 E’s premium Brembo brake package and the ’shadow chrome’ alloy finish completes an understated yet stylish exterior package.
The F6 E is available in a subtle exterior palette of nine colours – Winter White, Silhouette, Lightening Strike, Velvet, Sensation, Steel, Ego, Seduce and the new Mystic.
Inside the cabin, the F6 E features luxury FPV seats in shadow leather with the F6 E logo embossed on the headrests.
The interior environment of the F6 E is charcoal and receives a dark walnut woodgrain finish on the dashboard as well as the doors.
The interior is packed with features to ensure a premium driving experience, including a sports leather steering wheel with cruise control and audio mounted switches, dual zone temperature control air conditioning, front and rear power windows and memory adjustable pedals with alloy pedal controls.
Sports Performance Maintains Ride Comfort
“The F6 E gives increased response to the accelerator pedal throughout the rev range, but also provides around town driveability due to better access to torque,” DPV Head of Powertrain Engineering Bernie Quinn said.
The automatic transmission has a cylinder cut feature during wide open throttle gear changes, which shortens the ‘torque off, torque-back-on’ time between gear changes, enhancing the wide open throttle performance feel.
“The result is a vehicle with outstanding performance, better engine response and fuel efficiency, and improved operating performance under all conditions.
“The F6 E has an improved turn in response and linearity, better steering precision and stability mid-corner and a reduced roll rate, which all work to deliver a smooth and controlled ride,” Quinn explained.
“The FPV performance independent double wish bone front suspension and performance control independent rear suspension teamed up with the new Sachs mono-shock damper provides the perfect balance between a firm, dynamic sports performance feel and maintaining ride comfort while cruising.
Safety is Standard in the F6 E
The F6 E is equipped with Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and side curtain airbags, both of which are now standard across the entire FPV range.
In addition, the F6 E also features a reverse parking camera and reverse sensing system as standard.
Other safety features include Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and a 4-channel Anti-lock Bracking System (ABS), driver and passenger airbags and Beltminder technology for both the driver and passenger.
The F6 E is protected by a remote alarm and FPV’s ID Datadot identification.
The F6 E will be available in New Zealand from December 2009 and will be priced at $87,990+ on road costs (including GST).
Source : Ford New Zealand www.ford.co.nz
Carbuying.co.nz Motoring News.
carbuying.co.nz/blog/2009/08/fpv-launches-its-latest-model-f6/
Mazda NZ drives funds for KidsCan
Comments OffMazda New Zealand helped drive the Big Night In Telethon over the weekend, raising more than $34,000.00 through an online auction where viewers bid on a new generation Mazda3.
The 23-hour event on TV3 generated more than $2 million for the charity KidsCan StandTall which supports young New Zealanders who are financially disadvantaged.
“Mazda is thrilled to have been able to support such a much-loved Kiwi event and raise some needed funds for KidsCan. The charity does some fantastic work in the community, providing opportunities for children in need to reach their full potential and succeed. We enjoyed bringing some of the highlights of past Telethons back to life through ‘Mazda Moments’,” said Andrew Clearwater, Managing Director, Mazda New Zealand.
‘Mazda Moments’ saw John Campbell speak to ten well-known Kiwis who played signficant roles in earlier Telethons. Celebrities including Paul Holmes, Dougal Stevenson, Sean Fitzpatrick, Phillip Sherry and Tim Shadbolt discussed their memories of previous all-night Telethons.
Mazda supplied the event organisers with three sign-written Mazda3 vehicles in stunning velocity red, indigo lights and graphite mica for promotional use in the lead up to the Telethon.
It has been 15 years since New Zealand’s Telethon first appeared on our screens raising money for children’s causes. The Big Night In Telethon 09 didn’t disappoint, drawing an audience of more than two million viewers and featuring New Zealand celebrities including the KidsCan StandTall ambassadors The All Blacks along with actors, comedians and musicians.
About the KidsCan StandTall Charitable Trust: www.kidscan.org.nz . The KidsCan StandTall Charitable Trust (KidsCan) is a national charity dedicated to ensuring Kiwi kids less fortunate than others have a bright future. KidsCan provides three targeted programmes; ‘Raincoats for Kids’, ‘Shoes for Kids’ and ‘Food for Kids’, which remove the barriers preventing financially disadvantaged children from getting the most out of their education and life. Kidscan is the official charity of the All Blacks.
Source Mazda New Zealand www.mazda.co.nz
Carbuying.co.nz Motoring news.
carbuying.co.nz/blog/2009/08/mazda-nz-drives-funds-for-kidscan/
Mazda3 MPS, the headline model of the new-generation Mazda3 range, delivers unrivalled performance and handling in one of the world’s most powerful front-wheel drive compacts.
The MPS takes motorists to new levels of driving excitement with an updated MZR 2.3-litre Direct Injection Spark Ignition (DISI) turbo petrol engine, increased body shell rigidity and evolved suspension.
“The Mazda3 MPS features everything that is loved about the Mazda3 – strong performance and handling with plenty of style but with even more Zoom-Zoom,” said Andrew Clearwater, Mazda New Zealand Managing Director.
The MPS’ revised engine boasts high levels of performance in a front-engine, front-wheel drive sports compact with increased maximum power and generous torque. The combination of direct-injection with a turbocharger sees the MPS achieve performance that is on par with a larger displacement engine, with acceleration of 0-100km/h in just 6.1 seconds. Easy to control torque combined with an optimised gear ratio ensures smooth shift operation for sporty driving.
Insightful engineering not only means advanced power delivery, but improved fuel consumption and cleaner emissions than that of the previous model – an outstanding feat for a car of this power. The world’s first underfloor single-nanotechnology, fast-reacting catalyctic converter delivers cleaner emissions and achieves Euro Stage V compliance – the first for a Mazda vehicle.
Numerous local reinforcements have been added to the MPS to increase body rigidity and improve the new model’s overall performance. High-tensile steel sheeting is used throughout the vehicle for a stiffer body based on the Mazda Advanced Impact Distribution and Absorption (MAIDAS) system. The new model has added localised reinforcements inside the front cowl member gussets to strengthen the joints between the rear suspension towers and rear floorboard.
Improved performance goes hand in hand with improved safety. Drivers can be sure of improved suspension and handling with the addition of larger stabilisers to reduce vibrations and provide greater strength in the event of the car rolling. Power assisted steering which adjusts control according to vehicle speed and steering angle means more precise, controlled handling and assured driver confidence.
The MPS also features specially tuned brakes for powerful and stable braking. Electronic brake assist replaces the previous mechanical system, and four-wheel ABS and DSC are also standard equipment, giving solid handling stability under all surface conditions. Bi-Xenon headlamps with Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS) enhances night time visibility.
In addition to class-leading braking systems, all models are equipped with Front, Side and Curtain airbags with active headrests and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)/Traction Control
(TCS) as standard safety equipment across the model range to ensure a confident driving experience.
The Mazda3 MPS is available in four exterior colours including Black Mica, Velocity Red Mica, Aluminium Metallic and the new Celestial Blue Mica.
The Mazda3 MPS is now available at a recommended retail price of $48,545 which includes mazdacare genuine servicing for the first three years or 100,000kms (whichever comes first).
Arrange a test drive at Dunedin City Motors www.dcmotors.co.nz
For more information visit www.mazda.co.nz/models/mazda3-mps.aspx.
Carbuying.co.nz Motoring news.
Ford Australia invests in new Fuel Efficient Engines
Comments OffFord Australia announced today it is investing $230 million to improve the fuel efficiency and environmental impact of its Australian-made models, including the first global application of Ford’s advanced 2.0-litre 4-cylinder EcoBoost engine in a rear-wheel drive vehicle, the Ford Falcon.
This continues the global roll-out of EcoBoost, the new technology from Ford that provides consumers with an affordable engine that delivers up to 20 per cent better fuel economy and 15 per cent fewer CO2 emissions.
Ford Australia is taking two other steps, in addition to EcoBoost, to offer consumers more choices for vehicles with better fuel economy and lower CO2 emissions:
- In 2010, Ford will introduce an advanced liquid-injection LPG system for the Ford Falcon, providing customers with the most advanced LPG technology on the market and making the Falcon even more attractive to private, taxi and fleet markets.
- The Ford Territory, the only Australian-made SUV, will receive a clean diesel version of Ford’s 2.7-litre turbocharged V6 engine, giving buyers the choice of an engine which improves fuel economy and reduces greenhouse gases.
Today’s announcement is supported by assistance from the Australian Government’s Green Car Innovation Fund and the Victorian State Government. It is in addition to Ford’s previous investment to engineer the company’s locally manufactured I6 engine for compliance with Euro IV emission standards.
Starting in 2011, the iconic Falcon, one of the largest-selling brands in automotive history and the first Australian-made car to be awarded a 5-star ANCAP rating, will become one of the greenest family cars in Australia with EcoBoost. Slated for a range of global vehicles – from small cars to large trucks – EcoBoost uses petrol turbocharged direct-injection technology to deliver improved fuel efficiency, emissions and driving performance versus larger displacement engines.
As the first rear-wheel drive car from Ford to receive the 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder EcoBoost, Falcon is benefiting from the One Ford strategy of accelerating products that customers want and value – and then making those products available on a global basis.
“Today’s announcements put Ford Australia in a strong position for profitable growth in today’s auto industry,” said Marin Burela, President & CEO of Ford Australia. “We are ensuring our core Falcon and Territory vehicles will have the most advanced, high-tech and cleanest engines possible. At the same time, this represents the biggest environmental transformation in the fifty-year history of Ford Falcon by giving buyers the newest engine in the Ford Motor Company stable.
“Falcon customers will now have the choice of either the continually popular I6 engine, which will be Euro IV compliant, or one of the first global applications of Ford’s EcoBoost, 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engines, while in a similar timeframe Territory customers will be able to access Ford’s world-class clean diesel engine technology,” Burela continued.
Ford Australia also announced that as a result of changing global economic conditions, the company has ended plans to manufacture the Ford Focus in Australia. After assessing the global requirements and costs of producing the next Focus in Australia, Ford determined that the changing economic conditions meant it could not make a business case for profitably manufacturing the car at its operations outside of Melbourne.
Ford’s new strategy allows the company to economically source small cars for the Australian market from overseas locations, while investing in leading-edge technologies to serve its core Falcon and Territory customers. The decision to not make the Focus in Australia will not result in any job losses.
“Although difficult, this is the right decision for Ford Australia,” said Burela. “Ford Australia has a strong commitment to manufacturing in this country built on ongoing support from employees, customers, dealers, suppliers and government. Our investments today demonstrate not only our commitment to address climate change – but to bringing leading edge technologies to the Australian market.
“Ford is fully committed to working towards fuel economy leadership in every segment in which we compete, across local and imported vehicles. In fact, later this year we will introduce the most fuel-efficient vehicle in Australia when we launch the Fiesta ECOnetic, which will be more economical than hybrids at only 3.7L/100km,” said Burela.
These significant projects add to a continued program of ongoing investment by Ford in the Australian market, including:
- More than $500 million investment in the current FG Falcon range of vehicles.
- Leading design and engineering work on Ford’s next generation compact pickup truck, which will eventually be sold in more than 100 countries.
- More than $80 million invested at the Lara Proving Ground, including building the largest environmental wind tunnel in the Southern Hemisphere.
- $21 million investment in ongoing production of the company’s iconic I6 engine, which will become Euro IV compliant in mid-2010.
“Ford is the only local manufacturer to increase market share in Australia over the past year. Last month, we reinstated two non-production days back into the production schedule as a result of rising demands. In June, Falcon Ute sales were their best since June 2006, the Falcon XR had its best monthly sales on record, and demand for the new-look Territory has exceeded our expectations” said Burela.
About EcoBoost
The EcoBoost program is part of Ford’s ongoing and wide-ranging global initiative to deliver fuel-efficient powertrain systems with the power and performance found in larger-displacement engines. EcoBoost will be offered on Ford vehicles throughout the world. On sale now in select Ford vehicles in North America, more than 90 per cent of Ford’s North American nameplates will be available with EcoBoost by 2013.
The key to the EcoBoost system is the harmony between the turbochargers and direct-injection fuel system. The turbochargers recover energy from the exhaust that otherwise would have been wasted and put it back in the engine to gain efficiency. Simply, the turbocharging system puts more air into the engine for more power. A compressor increases or “boosts” the pressure of the air entering the engine. An intercooler reduces the air temperature before it enters the engine.
About LPG
The liquid injection LPG engine for Falcon is the most advanced LPG technology on the market. By injecting liquid LPG directly into each intake track, the system delivers better fuel economy, reduced CO2 and improved performance through a more precise metering of fuel to the engine. Initial analysis indicates liquid injection LPG technology can reduce CO2 levels 12 per cent or more compared to current LPG technology.
About Clean Diesel
Technology advancements are reducing the tailpipe emissions that diesel engines traditionally produce. Buyers of Ford’s Australian-made Territory SUV will be able to get a clean diesel option that generates fewer greenhouse gasses, while at the same time giving them better fuel economy performance than comparable petrol-driven engines. Clean diesel variants of a new 2.7-litre V6 engine will reduce CO2 by up to 25 per cent from six cylinder petrol engines.
Source: Ford New Zealand www.ford.co.nz
Carbuying.co.nz Motoring news.
carbuying.co.nz/blog/2009/07/ford-australia-new-fuel-efficient-engines/
Mitsubishi Motors’ rugged Triton GLS is the only 4WD ute in New Zealand to have side and curtain airbags as standard. A recent model year update to the GLS saw the introduction of the extra airbags, adding to the existing array of safety devices including ABS brakes, driver and passenger airbags, with an on/off switch for the passenger’s air bag.
“The Triton now has more safety features than any other ute in the 4WD segment and none come with side and curtain airbags as standard,” said Mitsubishi Motors NZ general manager of sales and marketing Peter Wilkins. “It already holds a four-star ANCAP rating, placing it first equal in the class but we anticipate this will make us the outright leader.”
The GLS now also features Super-Select 4WD, cruise control and new 17” alloy wheels. The Super Select 4WD System allows four driving modes and offers the benefit of on-the-fly shifts from 2WD to 4WD high range at speeds of up to 100km/h.
2H (2WD high range) provides rear-wheel drive for a smooth drive down the highway or across town. When the weather turns bad and the road gets rough, 4H (full-time 4WD) has the flexibility of a centre differential with viscous coupling unit, providing excellent traction in unpredictable road conditions or volatile surfaces.
4HLC (4WD high range with locked centre differential) distributes power equally to all four wheels to meet off-road challenges and help keep the vehicle on track in rugged or slippery conditions, while 4LLC (4WD low range with locked centre differential) maximises low-end torque to cross the toughest terrain, mud and snow.
“These additions bolster what is a very reliable, hard-working diesel ute,” said Mr Wilkins. “And we’ve managed to deliver it at a very competitive price that will appeal to fleet and private customers alike; $52,990 for the manual and $54,990 for the auto.”
Arrange a test drive of the New Mitsubishi Triton at the following dealers
North Shore – Simon Lucas Mitsubishi www.simonlucas.co.nz
Auckland – Andrew Simms Mitsubishi Newmarket www.andrewsimms.co.nz
Nelson – Houston’s Mitsubishi Nelson www.houstons.co.nz
Blenhiem – Houston’s Mitsubishi Marlborough www.houstonsmarlborough.co.nz
Christchurch – Donnithorne Simms Mitsubishi www.donnithornesimms.co.nz
Dunedin – Stephen Duff Mitsubishi www.stephenduff.co.nz
Source : Mitsubishi Motors New Zealand www.mitsubishi-motors.co.nz
Carbuying.co.nz Motoring news.
carbuying.co.nz/blog/2009/07/new-mitsubishi-triton-first-ute-with-side-and-certain-airbags/
New Ford Ranger Defines Tough Style
Comments OffFord elevates Ranger to new heights in style and design defined by its distinctive, muscular Tough Style exterior. With genuine class-leading TDCi power and performance, the new Ford Ranger for 2009 also comes loaded with real visual excitement.
Ford’s global leadership and expertise in pickup truck design and development has led to considerable improvements to its compact Ranger pickup. Respected throughout more than 130 markets around the world, the new Ford Ranger effectively combines genuine durability and toughness with a new distinct and muscular exterior design.
“Through the years Ranger has earned the respect from those who depend on their truck every day,” says Ian Constance, Product Development Director, Ford Motor Company, Asia Pacific and Africa.
“The new Ranger leverages its toughness with Ford’s engineering know-how to create a compact truck that is unequalled for its all-around ability and style.”
This blend of strength and style – Ford describes it as Tough Style – defines new Ranger and brings to the compact truck segment a very high degree of attention to design and detail beyond the competition’s offerings.
“Its contemporary design gives new Ranger instant credibility as an urban vehicle and its versatility makes Ranger a logical lifestyle choice,” says Scott Strong, Design Director, Ford Motor Company, Asia Pacific and Africa.
“You’d be proud to be seen driving the new Ranger anywhere, and its strong on-road presence is built upon expert craftsmanship and detailed design.”
Clearly inspired by the high-impact Ranger MAX show truck – which Ford revealed at the Thailand International Motor Expo in November – the new Ford Ranger puts into production several distinctive design elements that create a new look for the compact pickup segment.
“The very positive reaction to Ranger MAX validated our Tough Style design direction for the new Ranger,” says Paul Gibson, Chief Designer, Ford Motor Company, Asia Pacific and Africa.
“Ranger MAX is visually distinctive and muscular, and those same design elements such as the wide grille and open mouth air intake [feeding the intercooler and radiator] are used effectively on new Ford Ranger.
“We’re convinced that the new Ranger’s design will hit home with buyers who appreciate a truck that looks tough and is tough. And they can be sure that the new Ranger is as capable as ever.”
Find out more or arrange a test drive at Dunedin City Ford www.dcford.co.nz
Source: Ford New Zealand www.ford.co.nz
Carbuying.co.nz Motoring news.
Ford New Zealand launches New Territory
Comments OffA new look Territory range has been launched in New Zealand featuring key exterior changes, fresh interior environments, a revised model-line up and a host of additional equipment now fitted as standard.
Available today, Ford New Zealand is proud to introduce the new SY Territory MK II line up, the latest iteration of the ever popular Ford SUV that has sold over 8,400 units in New Zealand over the last four years.
“The Territory has been an outstanding success for Ford since it was launched in 2004, achieving both sales success and critical acclaim over the past four and a half years, with more than 86,000 customers to date and a multitude of consumer and industry awards,” Ford Australia President and CEO Marin Burela said.
“Territory has proven immensely popular with consumers who love its car-like handling, spacious and flexible interior, stylish design and high levels of occupant safety.”
“The new look Territory builds on these great attributes, while taking the next step in its evolution with a revised exterior design, fresh interior appointments and a host of new equipment.”
The revised model line-up for the Territory range consists of a TS RWD, TS AWD, Ghia AWD and a Ghia Turbo AWD – the TX RWD, TX AWD and the FPV F6X will no longer be offered.
Major design changes include an all-new bonnet (for all bar the Ghia Turbo), with a complementary new front bumper, upper and lower grilles, new headlamps and a new fog lamp bezel.
New body coloured door handles, new chrome belt moulding, revised tail lamps and body coloured exterior mirrors are also part of the new exterior package.
Additional new design elements, which apply to both Ghia and Ghia Turbo models, include a new fender feature, turn indicators integrated into the side mirrors, side steps and privacy glass on rear passenger, rear side and tailgate windows.
New design alloy wheels feature across the entire Territory range.
The interior of the new Territory has also received a significant freshening, with new seat materials, colour finishers and trim highlights on all models.
The list of new items extends to Interior Command Centre (ICC) finishes, instrument panel spear colours and a new Shadow interior environment colour on all models.
Silver steering wheel buttons are another new touch for the new Territory and will be fitted as standard on TS, Ghia and Ghia Turbo models.
A host of additional equipment and features are now fitted as standard on the new look Territory range, further improving its competitiveness in the hotly contested SUV segment, as well as delivering a compelling value-for-money proposition for customers.
Territory TS becomes the entry level specification and gains a reverse parking camera and a third row seat as standard.
Ghia models also gain an Alpine rear DVD system, side steps, rear privacy glass and 18-inch alloy wheels, while the Ghia Turbo picks up the same list of additions and a new alloy wheel design (18 inch wheels are already standard fitment on the top-of-the-line Territory model).
All variants of the new Territory are now available in New Zealand except for the TS AWD, which will be introduced in October.
For pricing or to arrange a test drive contact the new vehicle sales team at Dunedin City Ford visit www.dcford.co.nz
Source Ford New Zealand www.ford.co.nz
carbuying.co.nz/blog/2009/07/ford-new-zealand-launches-new-territory/
Mazda does well as Mazda 3 Zooms in
Comments Off
Despite the new vehicle market suffering its worst April in 35 years, Mazda New Zealand is weathering the storm and continued to cement its fourth position in the market.
While Mazda sales were down 30.2% on April 2008 figures and 22% year to date it fared much better than the new car industry which was down 36.5% compared with April 2008 and 33.1% year to date. Mazda achieved an outstanding market share of 8.4% for the month.
Andrew Clearwater, managing director Mazda New Zealand, said while the tough economic climate was impacting on new vehicle sales, he was pleased with Mazda’s performance for 2009 so far.
“Mazda’s core vehicle line up delivers enhanced fuel efficiency without sacrificing style and performance and that has resonated with Kiwi motorists. We expect our sales to lift following the launch of the new generation Mazda3 last week. The feedback we’ve received from customers after only a few days since releasing the car has been extremely encouraging,” said Clearwater.
The Mazda3’s predecessor continued to perform in its final full month, ranking fourth in the Motor Industry Association’s Top 15 selling models for April. The Mazda2 and Mazda6 also featured in the list with the Mazda6 continuing to lead the 4 cylinder medium car segment.
Source: Mazda New Zealand www.mazda.co.nz
Carbuying.co.nz Motoring news.
Mazda New Zealand gets behind the Big Night In.
Comments OffMazda New Zealand has added some ‘zoom-zoom’ to the Big Night In by contributing three new-generation Mazda3s for the event organisers to use in the lead up to the Telethon.
The sign written hatchbacks, in stunning velocity red, indigo lights and graphite mica, will be seen on Auckland’s roads over the coming months.
“We are thrilled to be supporting such a great event and like many other New Zealanders we feel a sense of nostalgia and pride about bringing this iconic Kiwi show back to life,” said Andrew Clearwater, Mazda New Zealand managing director.
Viewers will also have the chance to bid on a new-generation Mazda3 which will be auctioned throughout the Big Night In on www.sella.co.nz.
The Big Night In Telethon screening on TV3 on 8 August starting at 7.00pm and will feature current All Blacks along with local and international actors, comedians, musicians, community and cultural performers. All money raised will enable the charity KidsCan to further support young New Zealanders living in poverty.
Article provided to Carbuying.co.nz by Mazda New Zealand. www.mazda.co.nz
Carbuying.co.nz Motoring news.
About the KidsCan Standtall Charitable Trust: www.kidscan.org.nz
The KidsCan StandTall Charitable Trust (KidsCan) is a national charity dedicated to ensuring Kiwi kids less fortunate than others have a bright future. KidsCan provides three targeted programmes; ‘Raincoats for Kids’, ‘Shoes for Kids’ and ‘Food for Kids’, which remove the barriers preventing financially disadvantaged children from getting the most out of their education and life. Kidscan is the official charity of the All Blacks.
carbuying.co.nz/blog/2009/07/mazda-new-zealand-gets-behind-the-big-night-in/
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Carbuying.co.nz is a fully New Zealand owned and operated company that wants to keep New Zealand’s up to date with the latest car dealers sales so that the public can find the best deal when buying there new or used car.
carbuying.co.nz/blog/2009/07/carbuying-is-now-on-blogspotcom/
Andrew Simms Mitsubishi Rally Team
Comments OffFind out about the Andrew Simms Mitsubishi Rally team the latest rally news and video at the following links
Andrew Simms Mitsubishi in Newmarket Auckland
http://andrewsimms.emedia.net.nz/Rally/tabid/545/Default.aspx
Donnithorne Simms Mitsubishi Christchurch
http://www.donnithornesimms.co.nz/Rally/tabid/513/Default.aspx
Rally Driver Chris West drives the Mitsubishi EVO Rally car for the Andrew Simms Mitsubishi Rally Team
Andrew Simms Mitsubishi in Newmarket Auckland and Donnithorne Simms Mitsubishi in Christchurch are proud sponsors of the Andrew Simms Mitsubishi rally team.
If you are looking to purchase a new or used car in Auckland or christchurch then visit
Andrew Simms Mitsubishi in Newmarket Auckland or online at www.andrewsimms.co.nz
Donnithorne Simms Mitsubishi in Christchurch or online at www.donnithornesimms.co.nz
or Donnithorne Simms Trade in Post Christchurch which is down Moorhouse Ave Christchurch or online at www.tradeinpost.co.nz
Carbuying.co.nz now has car deals of the week page
Comments OffCarbuying.co.nz now has a new feature called Deals of the week a place where you can keep right up to date with the latest new and used car sales and promotions from car dealers throughout New Zealand.
Each week we will keep you up to date with the deals of the week from dealers across New Zealand.
To check out the latest deals of the week please click here.
Carbuying.co.nz is growing in 2009 and is looking a new oppurtunitys to expand in the future.
Carbuying.co.nz is completely New Zealand owned and operated. Carbuying.co.nz does not belong to other newspaper owned or foreign owned media companys.
Carbuying.co.nz New Zealand’s new and used car buying site.
carbuying.co.nz/blog/2009/04/carbuyingconz-now-has-car-deals-of-the-week-page/
Find Carbuying.co.nz on Facebook
Comments OffFind Carbuying.co.nz on Facebook by clicking the image below
Carbuying.co.nz is a growing New Zealand owned car related media company.
Carbuying.co.nz offers the New Zealand car buying public a unique oppurtunity to find car related service and dealers in there area.
Over the the next few months I would like to post in here under carbuying.co.nz news the latest features we will be releasing to the public via carbuying.co.nz New Zealand’s new and used car buying site.
carbuying.co.nz/blog/2009/04/find-carbuyingconz-on-facebook/
Carbuying.co.nz has been upgraded
Comments OffCarbuying.co.nz has been upgraded and now has a vehicle system for new cars used cars and demonstrators however we will have vehicles fully up and running until later on in the new year.
Soon you will be able to search for different vehicles from all accross New Zealand.
We intend to find great quality new and used vehicle stock and make it easy for you to search for a great deal.
Our blog will continue to include things like the latest news and reviews and will list information of upcoming sales from across NZ
Carbuying.co.nz your new and used car buying site is New Zealand owned and operated.
Carbuying.co.nz is a division of Anngow Marketing Dunedin
Joel Anngow.
carbuying.co.nz/blog/2009/04/carbuyingconz-has-been-upgraded/