Connect with us
Byron Bay News and Weather copy
Mt Warning News and Weather copy
Kyogle News
Grafton News and Events copy
Byron Bay News and Weather copy
Mt Warning News and Weather copy
Kyogle News
Grafton News and Events copy
previous arrow
next arrow

Motoring News

2022 PORSCHE MACAN

Published

on

By

Advertisements
Care Connect Home Care Packages

2022 PORSCHE MACAN

New Macan harks back to the instantly-recognisable Porsche 911 in its shape.

Porsche Macan received a pretty thorough update late in 2021 for the 2022 season. A considerable number of changes were made, this isn’t simply a mild revamp of the car initially released in 2015. It’s virtually all-new in some areas both inside and out.

More details about this in the various sections of this road test that follows this intro.

STYLING

Porsche stylists have worked hard to give their Macan a generic look that harks back to the instantly recognisable Porsche 911. Its nose slopes down nicely, though the radiator grille is a giveaway. The headlights are obviously ultra-modern LED units and make no bones about that as the elements are clear to see.

The tail is obviously not given any reference to the shape of the 911. It’s got a nicely squared-off look that gives it a sporty style while at the same time providing good luggage space.

The side windows carry all the way through at the same level in the lower area as the designers have been smart enough to not go for any upward swooping lines which spoil the view out for shorter rear seat occupants – that is the kids.

INTERIOR

The cabin is fine for most people, but those in the rear may find themselves a bit cramped as there’s not enough legroom if the person in front of them is tall. Obviously the two people in left seats can decide to how to share the seat.

But the person behind the driver may not have enough legroom. This is the sort of thing that has to be discussed by all likely occupants of the of the rear compartment before deciding which car to buy.

Boot space is 488 litres and a pretty impressive 1503 litres when the second-row seats are folded down. The rear seats are set up 40/20/40 so there’s a variety of ways they can be configured.

The boot is very usable with an almost flat floor.

INFOTAINMENT

The Macan has a 10.9-inch infotainment system with wireless and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as digital radio broadcasting.

Our test car had the optional Bose 14-speaker surround-sound system. Quality of sound is excellent and we enjoyed it for the way it reproduced our favourite songs.

ENGINES / TRANSMISSIONS

There’s excellent news here. The 2022 Macan is powered by a new-design 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine with 195 kW of power and up to 400 Nm of torque, the latter spread across a wide range of the rev band that makes it feel strong virtually all the time.

Power is sent through a seven-speed dual-clutch PDK automatic to all four wheels. There is a bias toward the rear wheels for everyday driving. More about that in the Driving section of this road test review.

ENGINES / TRANSMISSIONS

The 2022 Macan we tested is powered by a new-design 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine with 195kW of power and up to 400Nm of torque. The latter spread across a wide range of the rev band that makes it feel strong virtually all the time.

Power is sent through a seven-speed dual-clutch PDK automatic to all four wheels. There is a bias toward the rear wheels for everyday driving. More about that in the Driving section of this road test review.

As well as the four-cylinder engine we tested there are also the Porsche Macan S and GTS. With a twin-turbo petrol V6 engine with the S having 280kW and 520Nm and the GTS 324kW and 550Nm.

SAFETY

Primary safety – that is, the ability to not have a crash – is excellent. Thanks to the fact this machine has been designed for ‘ordinary’ road users, not just those who love to have a sports machine.

DRIVING

I was comfortable in the driver’s seat, with just the right amount of shaping of the base and rear of the seat to support me when peddling hard around bends. There are multiple adjustments to set it up to your personal preference and you would have to be very fastidious to not find something to suit your personal desires.

The view of the instruments is excellent as this is obviously a machine meant to be driven in a sporting manner. There’s a large central tachometer with a small digital speed readout in its centre. There’s a conventional speedometer on the left, and a digital panel on the right.

On the road it’s a delight to drive with plenty of feel through the steering wheel and the ability to corner hard when take it out onto your favourite driving roads. You know the ones I mean, those roads which invite you to get out of bed just on sunrise, ideally on a Sunday when everyone else is having a lie-in and there’s no one about.

RATINGS

Looks: 9/10

Performance: 8/10

Safety: 9/10

Thirst: 8/10

Practicality: 8/10

Comfort: 7/10

Tech: 8/10

Value: 9/10

AT A GLANCE

MODEL RANGE

Macan 2.0: $89,300

Macan 2.0 T: $92,700

Macan 2.9 S: $112,400

Macan 2.9 GTS: $137,300

Note: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Porsche dealer for drive-away prices.

SPECIFICATIONS (Porsche Macan 2.0-litre turbo-petrol five-door wagon)

ENGINE:

Capacity: 1.984 litres

Configuration: Four cylinders in line

Maximum Power: 195 kW @  5000 rpm

Maximum Torque: 400 Nm @ 1800 rpm

Fuel Type: Premium unleaded petrol

Combined Fuel Cycle (ADR 81/02): 9.5 L/100km

CO2 Emissions: 217 g/km

DRIVELINE: Seven-speed dual clutch automatic

DIMENSIONS, WEIGHT AND CAPACITIES:

Length: 4726 mm

Wheelbase: 2807 mm

Width: 1927 mm

Height: 1606 mm

Turning Circle: 12.0 metres

Kerb Mass: 1798 kg

Fuel Tank Capacity: 75 litres

BRAKES:

Front: Ventilated disc

Rear: Ventilated disc

STANDARD WARRANTY:

Three years / unlimited kilometres

Advertisements
Tenterfield-The Bowlo
Continue Reading

Ballina News

“Australian lightweight champion from lil ol’ Swan Bay”

Published

on

By

Sunny McLean with his coach, Scott Smith. Boxing Northern Rivers News
Advertisements
Care Connect Home Care Packages

“Australian lightweight champion from lil ol’ Swan Bay”

 

By Samantha Elley

Maddog boxing’s Sunny McLean has been going from strength to strength this past year, grabbing titles from each of the events he has been fighting in.

Sunny McLean and his coach, Scott Smith, who runs Maddox Boxing, were recently picked to represent Queensland as the fighter and coach team to compete in the national titles in Gosford.

Sunny won all his elimination bouts and beat the NSW champion in the gold medal fight, to become the newly crowned Australian champion in the lightweight division.

They were surprised with a visit from Jason and Andrew Moloney, world champion professional boxers.

“Every state in Australia was there with all the best fighters and the (Moloney brothers) came to support us, so we felt so special,” said Scott.

“They came to help me prepare Sunny for his last two fights in this event.”

Sunny was competing for Queensland as he already holds the title of QLD/NSW interstate champion.

“His first opponent, the referee stopped the fight in the 3rd round,” said Scott.

“His second opponent was the favourite from Tasmania and Sunny won that fight to go through for the gold medal against the NSW champion.

“Andy (co-trainer) and I worked out a plan to beat him and Sunny did exactly what he was asked and never last control of the situation.

“He is now the Australian lightweight champion from lil ol Swan Bay.”

 

For more local news, click here.

Advertisements
Tenterfield-The Bowlo
Continue Reading

Motoring News

2025 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Review: Affordable Supercar Thrills

Published

on

By

2025 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray
Advertisements
Care Connect Home Care Packages

2025 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Review: Affordable Supercar Thrills

 

By Jeff Gibbs

The 2025 Chevrolet C8 Corvette Stingray breaks new ground in the supercar segment by delivering exceptional performance, striking design, and everyday usability—all at a fraction of the cost of European rivals. With prices starting at $195,000 for the 3LT Coupe, it’s a compelling choice for enthusiasts seeking luxury and power without sacrificing practicality.

A Revolution in Corvette History

Launched over 70 years ago, the Corvette has undergone significant transformations, but none more groundbreaking than the eighth-generation C8. This is the first Corvette with a mid-engine layout, improving balance, traction, and overall performance. It’s also the first to arrive in Australia with factory-built right-hand drive, eliminating the need for aftermarket modifications.

Pricing and Variants

The Stingray range includes:

  • 2LT Coupe: $175,000 (+ ORCs)
  • 2LT Convertible: $190,000 (+ ORCs)
  • 3LT Coupe (tested): $195,000 (+ ORCs)
  • 3LT Convertible: $205,000 (+ ORCs)
  • Z06 Coupe: $336,000 (+ ORCs)

The tested 3LT Coupe includes optional upgrades such as machined-face alloy wheels ($4,940), red brake callipers ($1,625), and chrome badging ($507), bringing the price to $202,072 before on-road costs. Wait times for the Stingray have dropped to five months, with nine months required for the Z06, which offers an even more exhilarating experience.

Performance

The Stingray’s 6.2-litre LT2 V8 produces 369kW and 637Nm, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. This powertrain propels the car from 0-100km/h in just 2.9 seconds, delivering ferocious acceleration. The Z51 Performance Package, standard in Australia, enhances handling and cooling, featuring:

  • Brembo brakes
  • Adaptive Magnetic Ride Control dampers
  • Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres
  • Limited-slip differential
  • Performance exhaust

The Stingray is built for track and road, offering grip and balance that rival cars costing twice as much. Fuel economy is officially rated at 13.5L/100km but is likely higher with spirited driving.

Driving Experience

The C8 Corvette offers a thrilling yet refined driving experience. The four standard drive modes—Weather, Tour, Sport, and Track—adapt the car’s character to various conditions. For everyday use, Tour mode provides a comfortable ride, soaking up bumps with ease. Sport mode dials up responsiveness, while Track mode unleashes its full potential with firm suspension, razor-sharp steering, and a ferocious exhaust note.

The Michelin tyres and balanced chassis deliver outstanding grip, allowing drivers to corner confidently at speed. The eight-speed dual-clutch transmission shifts seamlessly and quickly, while the paddle shifters provide precise manual control when desired.

Despite its supercar performance, the Stingray is remarkably liveable. The adaptive suspension ensures a compliant ride over uneven surfaces, making it suitable for daily driving—a rarity in the supercar world.

Interior and Technology

Step inside, and the Corvette’s cabin is unmistakably driver focused. The tested 3LT features a bold red leather and suede interior, though the colour may polarize opinions. The cockpit is equipped with an array of technology, including:

  • 8.0-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
  • Colour head-up display
  • 14-speaker Bose audio system
  • Performance Data Recorder for track enthusiasts

The vertically mounted climate control panel and button-heavy design may feel overwhelming at first, but familiarity improves usability. The removable roof panel stows neatly in the boot, adding practicality without sacrificing storage space. Front and rear trunks offer enough room for groceries or overnight bags.

Safety Features

While the Corvette lacks official crash test ratings (common among supercars), it includes a robust safety suite:

  • Forward collision warning with low-speed AEB
  • Lane assist with departure warning
  • Blind-spot monitoring
  • Rear cross-traffic alert
  • Automatic high beams

Front and rear parking sensors and cameras enhance manoeuvrability, though visibility remains a challenge—a typical issue with mid-engine supercars.

What Sets the C8 Apart?

The C8’s mid-engine layout improves weight distribution and handling, placing it in direct competition with far more expensive rivals like Ferrari and McLaren. The Z51 package, standard on Australian models, ensures it delivers track-ready performance straight from the factory. Its price, however, is what truly sets it apart, offering a supercar experience for $200,000, a fraction of the cost of its European peers.

Verdict

The 2024 Chevrolet C8 Corvette Stingray 3LT is a game-changer, offering supercar performance and looks at a price that makes it accessible to more enthusiasts. With breathtaking acceleration, sharp handling, and a surprising level of comfort, it’s as thrilling on the track as it is manageable on city streets.

While visibility and interior quirks may deter some, the Stingray’s value, performance, and legacy make it a standout choice for anyone seeking the ultimate driving experience without a supercar price tag.

 

For more local news, click here.

Advertisements
Tenterfield-The Bowlo
Continue Reading

Motoring News

2025 Kia Sportage Unveiled with Fresh Updates

Published

on

By

2025 Kia Sportage
Advertisements
Care Connect Home Care Packages

2025 Kia Sportage Unveiled with Fresh Updates

 

By Jeff Gibbs

Kia has revealed the refreshed 2025 Sportage SUV in Korea, ahead of its Australian debut, where it will compete with the Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, Mitsubishi Outlander, and Hyundai Tucson. As Kia’s best-selling model in Australia, the updated Sportage showcases subtle yet impactful design changes and enhanced functionality.

Exterior and Interior Updates

The 2025 Sportage now features a black grille, hook-style headlights inspired by the EV9, and a redesigned front bumper, giving it a rugged, bold look. Inside, a new steering wheel complements the dual curved screens for multimedia and driver information. Kia’s over-the-air update capability ensures the vehicle’s tech remains current, while higher trims may include a head-up display.

Powertrain Improvements

Replacing the seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, the new eight-speed torque converter automatic offers smoother performance, addressing prior concerns. Engine options remain:

  • 2.0L four-cylinder (115kW/192Nm)
  • 1.6L turbo petrol (132kW/265Nm)
  • Hybrid variant (169kW/350Nm)

While diesel is unconfirmed in Korea, it may still arrive in Australia, along with a base manual option.

Pricing and Arrival

Expected to arrive in Q2 2025, Australian pricing may slightly rise from the current starting point of $32,995 for the base model and $45,950 for the hybrid.

 

For more local news, click here.

Advertisements
Tenterfield-The Bowlo
Continue Reading

NRTimes Online

National News Australia

Facebook

Latest News

Verified by MonsterInsights