Motoring News

2022 PORSCHE MACAN

Published

2 years ago

15 September 2022

JeffG

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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.

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

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Local News

2025 Smart #5 Electric SUV Revealed: The Future of Outdoor Adventure

Published

1 week ago

25 September 2024

Liam

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2025 Smart #5 Electric SUV Revealed: The Future of Outdoor Adventure

By Jeff Gibbs

The all-new 2025 Smart #5 electric SUV is set to revolutionise the way people experience the outdoors, combining cutting-edge electric technology with features designed for adventure. Created through a collaboration between Mercedes-Benz and Geely (Volvo’s parent company), the “hashtag five” is poised to change weekend getaways with a unique blend of off-road capability, luxury, and tech.

Power and Range At the heart of the Smart #5 is a massive 100kWh battery, offering an impressive range of more than 700 kilometres on a single charge. But this vehicle isn’t just about getting from point A to point B — it’s equipped to power outdoor adventures. The Smart #5 can run a variety of appliances, including a fridge, movie projector, and a high-fidelity stereo, making it an ideal companion for camping trips and outdoor escapes.

Design and Off-Road Capability Sized similarly to a Subaru Forester, the Smart #5 is designed for mild off-road tasks with all-wheel-drive traction and ample ground clearance. For those looking to push further into the wild, an optional off-road pack draws inspiration from the Land Rover Defender, featuring practical additions like a fold-down ladder, rooftop cargo tray, and external storage for muddy or wet gear.

Luxurious Interior and Advanced Technology Inside, the Smart #5 offers a premium experience with a digital dashboard and two high-resolution AMOLED displays. The SUV also boasts an augmented reality head-up display, giving drivers enhanced navigation and information at a glance. Powered by a water-cooled computer processor, the system can run movies and video games, turning the car into an entertainment hub for remote locations.

2025 Smart #5 Interior

The vehicle’s heated seats come with a massage function and can fold flat to create a “king size” sleeping space — perfect for overnight stays, though likely not quite as large as a traditional mattress. Adding to the luxurious feel, the Sennheiser surround sound system provides immersive audio, while a cute electronic avatar acts as a digital assistant, similar to Amazon’s Alexa or Apple’s Siri.

Innovative Features for Outdoor Adventures One of the standout features is the built-in movie projector, which, combined with the climate-controlled cabin, offers a unique way to relax under the stars. The SUV’s robust electrical system also allows it to power various appliances, transforming campsites into high-tech getaways.

Launch and Market Plans Though pricing details have not been confirmed, industry expectations suggest the Smart #5 could approach the $100,000 mark, especially given its extensive features and capabilities. This places it above the smaller Smart #1 and Smart #3 models.

The brand’s decision to debut the model globally in Byron Bay, Australia, underscores its intent to bring the Smart #5 to the Australian market. After its initial release in China later this year, production for Australia is expected to begin in 2025, with journalists from Europe and Asia already traveling to see the model in person.

With its combination of eco-friendly electric power, innovative tech, and off-road capability, the 2025 Smart #5 promises to be a game-changer in the electric SUV market, catering to those who want to explore the outdoors without sacrificing comfort or modern conveniences.

For more motoring news, click here.

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Local News

Polestar 4: A Bold New Entry in the Electric SUV Market

Published

2 weeks ago

19 September 2024

Liam

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Polestar 4: A Bold New Entry in the Electric SUV Market

By Jeff Gibbs

The Polestar 4 is the latest addition to Polestar’s growing lineup of electric vehicles, positioned as a dynamic all-electric SUV coupé that combines cutting-edge design, high performance, and advanced technology. Sitting between the Polestar 2 and the luxury Polestar 3, the Polestar 4 is set to push boundaries with its futuristic aesthetics and sustainable innovations.

Design and Aesthetics

The Polestar 4 embodies a sleek, coupe-like profile with a focus on aerodynamics and a minimalist design philosophy. In a departure from traditional SUV styling, the Polestar 4 embraces a lower, more streamlined shape with smooth lines, frameless windows, and a bold front end devoid of a traditional grille, highlighting its fully electric nature.

One of the most striking features of the Polestar 4 is its rear-windowless design, which replaces the traditional rear window with a digital rearview camera, enhancing both the car’s futuristic look and its aerodynamic efficiency.

Performance and Powertrain

The Polestar 4 is expected to offer dual-motor all-wheel-drive configurations, delivering a strong combination of power and efficiency. While specific power outputs are yet to be fully disclosed, early indications suggest that the Polestar 4 will offer a significant amount of power, rivalling other high-performance electric SUVs in its class.

With a long-range battery pack, the Polestar 4 is expected to provide an impressive range, making it suitable for both urban commutes and long-distance journeys. Fast-charging capabilities will also feature, allowing for quick top-ups on long drives.

Interior and Technology

Polestar has equipped the 4 with a high-tech, eco-friendly interior that emphasises sustainability. The cabin will feature recycled and vegan materials, aligning with the brand’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint. Polestar’s signature Scandinavian-inspired design ensures a clean, sophisticated interior with intuitive controls and ample space.

A large infotainment screen, powered by Google’s Android Automotive OS, will dominate the dashboard, offering seamless integration with apps such as Google Maps, Google Assistant, and other connected services. Polestar’s digital experience will also be enhanced with over-the-air (OTA) updates, allowing for continuous improvements to software features post-purchase.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Polestar vehicles are known for their focus on safety, and the Polestar 4 will likely feature the brand’s latest Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). This could include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and advanced collision avoidance technologies. The inclusion of autonomous driving features, similar to the Polestar 3, is also anticipated, further enhancing the vehicle’s safety credentials.

Sustainability Focus

In keeping with Polestar’s sustainability goals, the Polestar 4 will prioritise eco-friendly manufacturing processes and materials. The company has set ambitious targets for reducing its carbon emissions and increasing the use of recycled materials throughout the vehicle’s construction.

Market and Availability

The Polestar 4 is expected to launch in 2024, with deliveries beginning shortly after in key global markets, including Europe, the U.S., and China. Positioned between the Polestar 2 and Polestar 3 in terms of price and size, the Polestar 4 aims to appeal to customers seeking a stylish, performance-oriented electric SUV without compromising on sustainability or luxury.

As Polestar continues to expand its portfolio, the new model represents a significant step in the brand’s vision of redefining the electric vehicle market with innovative, sustainable, and high-performance cars.

For more motoring news, click here.

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2025 Audi e-tron GT Unveiled: Massive Power Boost and Enhanced Range

Published

2 weeks ago

19 September 2024

Liam

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2025 Audi e-tron GT Unveiled: Massive Power Boost and Enhanced Range

By Jeff Gibbs

The 2025 Audi e-tron GT has been officially revealed, showcasing a significant power boost, extended driving range, and updated styling. Set to arrive in European showrooms later this year, with Australian launch dates yet to be confirmed, the updated electric sedan offers cutting-edge performance and luxurious features.

The refreshed e-tron GT now includes two key variants: the S e-tron GT and the top-of-the-line RS e-tron GT Performance. Both models benefit from a technical overhaul, with the RS Performance boasting a staggering 680kW of power, making it the most powerful Audi road car to date. Powered by a new 97kWh battery, the e-tron GT offers up to 604km of driving range, a notable improvement thanks to new battery cell chemistry and recuperation capabilities.

Performance Highlights:

The S e-tron GT delivers 500kW, an increase of 110kW over the previous base model, while the RS e-tron GT ramps up to 630kW. The top-tier RS e-tron GT Performance pushes output to 680kW, making it just shy of the 700kW figure from its Porsche Taycan Turbo S sibling.
The 0-100km/h sprint has been cut to just 2.5 seconds in the RS Performance, while the S and RS variants clock in at 3.4 and 2.8 seconds, respectively.
The upgraded battery system allows for 320kW DC fast charging, which can add 280km of range in just 10 minutes.

Mechanical and Technological Enhancements Audi has introduced a lighter rear motor and a new two-chamber adaptive air suspension system, providing a refined balance between comfort and sportiness. The suspension system is shared with the Porsche Taycan, and it actively adjusts to enhance cornering and acceleration.

2025 Audi e-tron GT Interior

The braking system has also been overhauled, with larger steel brakes on the S e-tron GT, while the RS and RS Performance models come with tungsten carbide-coated or carbon-ceramic discs, respectively.

The RS Performance features a carbon-fibre roof, optional ‘carbon camouflage’ exterior trim, and a glass roof with liquid-crystal film, which can shift from transparent to opaque at the touch of a button.

Interior and Styling Updates Inside, Audi has upgraded the cabin with a new steering wheel, 18-way adjustable seats with massaging functions, and the use of eco-friendly materials like Dinamica suede and recycled Cascade fabric. Audi has also introduced fresh dashboard trim inlays and updated the digital instrument cluster with new displays for battery temperature and performance metrics.

On the exterior, the 2025 e-tron GT sports revised front bumpers, larger air intakes on the RS, and an optional black grille. It also debuts Audi’s new simplified four-ring logo, along with new 20-inch and 21-inch alloy wheels inspired by the 1991 Audi Avus concept car.

With these significant upgrades, Audi is positioning the 2025 e-tron GT as a high-performance electric sedan that combines luxury, cutting-edge technology, and thrilling power, solidifying its place as a strong competitor in the premium electric vehicle market.

For more motoring news, click here.

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