Car Advice | News | Reviews » Convertibles

Alfa Romeo 4C concept likely for August unveiling

Tim Beissmann — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 22:47:44 +0000

It is expected Alfa Romeo will reveal a concept version of the “4C” – a sporty little sister to the stunning Alfa Romeo 8C – as a part of its 100^th anniversary celebrations in August this year.

US website AutomobileMag has published a rendering of a roadster version of the 4C after talking with a company insider at Fiat headquarters.

“The 8C has been a very successful halo car. What we need next is a more affordable follow-up model that spreads the message over a wider customer base,” the source said.

Don’t expect the 4C to be a supercar though, if rumours are anything to go by.

It is expected the 4C will share the 8C’s curves and its rear-wheel drive layout, although its platform is unknown at this stage.

Power is tipped to come from a high-performance four-cylinder engine, most likely turbocharged, which may deliver around 180kW.

It is believed both convertible and coupe versions are in line for production with 5000 expected to be made and $75,000 apparently the magic number.

It is expected the 4C concept will be unveiled at the Concours d’Elegance at Pebble beach in August, but if it really is the works expect to see and hear plenty more about it before then.

Porsche Panamera Convertible revealed in patent application

Karl Peskett — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 22:36:53 +0000

There’s one rule of thumb when it comes to making a sports car – if it sells well, turn it into a convertible. Porsche has done just that, but not with one of its sports coupes. This time the Panamera will have its lid lopped off, if these patent application images are to be believed.

According to UK publication Autocar, new patents filed in America show a less traditional four door convertible, which looking at the boot space would undoubtably be a soft top.

To help strengthen the more angled windscreen, small quarter windows have been added at the base of the A-pillar, and the use of four doors certainly means practicality would be increased, with ease of entry and exit, as well as increased legroom over a two door version.

Certainly weight would be up with rigidity being of prime concern – you can’t lose a B-pillar without stiffening somewhere else, which also increases overall mass.

More details as they come to hand.

Source: Autocar

2010 Fiat 500C Abarth confirmed for Australia

Tim Beissmann — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 00:35:43 +0000

With the opening day of the 80^th Geneva Motor Show now less than a week away, Fiat has released the details of its latest baby racer – the Fiat 500C Abarth.

And the best news is that we’re going to get a shot at it in Australia, with the cabriolet version to launch locally sometime after the 500 Abarth coupe, which arrives mid-year.

Based on the 500 Abarth, the 500C Abarth packs a healthy 103kW and 206Nm of torque from its 1.4-litre turbocharged T-Jet engine. And Fiat assures us that an SS tuning kit is currently being developed which promises an even higher level of performance.

The Abarth Competizione five-speed MTA gearbox is carried over, complete with torque transfer control, paddle-shifters and LED gear shift indicator (GSI).

In Sport mode, GSI signals at the optimum moments to enhance performance, while in Normal mode it helps to reduce fuel consumption.

Both seem to work rather well. The 0-100km/h sprint takes 8.1 seconds and top speed is 205km/h, while the Euro 5 compliant unit consumes 6.5 litres/100km combined and 155g/km CO2.

So does the Abarth styling overhaul, evident in the two-tone paint job, spoiler, optional 17in diamond-finished petal white alloys and the aggressive lowered stance.

Fiat says top-down motoring can be enjoyed across the speed range without the buffeting produced by other convertibles, while with the roof shut comfort and quietness is on par with the hard top 500.

Safety from the 500 Abarth carries over, including seven airbags (two front, side and window and a driver’s knee), stability control, anti-slip regulation traction control, hill holder for starting on slopes and hydraulic brake assistance to help with emergency braking.

The Fiat 500C Abarth will make its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show on March 2.

ABARTH 500C – 103 kW 1.4 16v Turbo T-Jet specifications

Engine

• Four cylinders in line, four valves per cylinder, 1368cc

• Maximum power 103 kW at 5000rpm

• Peak torque 206Nm at 2000rpm in Sport mode

• IHI RHF3-P fixed geometry turbocharger

Transmission

• “Abarth Competizione” five-speed gearbox

• MTA shift system with electrical actuation of mechanical gearbox and steering wheel paddles

Suspension

• McPherson strut independent front suspension

• Torsion bar rear suspension with special calibration and anti-roll bar

Steering system

• Dualdrive electric power steering with Sport mode

• Sport/overboost button (modifies effect of Dualdrive electric power steering and boosts engine torque from 180Nm to 206Nm)

Brakes

• ZPH 4.1.2 floating front caliper with 54mm ø piston

• Self-ventilating front discs, diameter 284 x 22mm

• CII 34 floating rear caliper with 34mm ø piston

• 240mm x 11mm ø rear discs

• Electronic Stability Program

• TTC (Torque Transfer Control)

Wheels

• Standard: 6.5×16in aluminium alloy wheels with 195/45 R16in tyres

• Optional: 7×17in aluminium alloy wheels with 205/40 R17in tyres

CO2 emissions

• 155g/km

Performance

• Top speed 205km/h

• Acceleration 0-100km/h in 8.1 secs

Consumption

• 6.5 litres/100 km in the combined cycle

• 5.4 litres/100 km in the extra-urban cycle

• 8.5 litres/100 km in the urban cycle

2010 Renault Mégane Coupé-Cabriolet in Australia late-2010

Tim Beissmann — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 01:20:15 +0000

Updated 09/02/10 with comments from Renault Australia.

Full details of the new Renault Mégane Coupé-Cabriolet have been released weeks out from its debut at next month’s Geneva Motor Show, with the sixth iteration of the Mégane family promising practicality, elegance and driving thrills.

The CC’s headline act is its two-part, folding glass roof which ensures a brightly lit cabin and a spacious interior feel. It gets even more spacious in just 21 seconds with the 0.47 square metre roof (the largest in its segment) folding away at the touch of a button.

For top-down comfort the Mégane is fitted with a fixed glass wind deflector behind the back headrests and a removable mesh screen behind the front seats enabling draft-free driving up to 90km/h.

The redesign of the windscreen has shifted the header-rail 6cm further forward compared to the outgoing Mégane II Coupé-Cabriolet, making front seat entry and exit much more comfortable.

Other user-friendly features include the automatically closing and large capacity boot (417 litres with the roof up, 221 litres with the roof down), position memory for front seats after being tipped forward, hands free locking and starting and an automatic electric parking brake.

High-tech cabin equipment ranges from an Arkamys audio system with Plug&Music USB connectivity and Carminat TomTom navigation, to dual-zone climate control, directional bi-Xenon headlamps and a new colour-coded cruise control/speed limiter interface.

Adding to the driving experience is the new electric power steering system which Renault claims is more responsive and refined and offers more accurate feedback, MacPherson-type front suspension attached to a horned subframe for lateral rigidity three-times greater than the Mégane II, and an 80 percent increase in torsional rigidity of the bodyshell.

Six different engine options include three petrols (82kW and 97kW turbo with a six-speed manual, and 107kW with continuously variable transmission) and three diesels (82kW, 97kW and 119kW all with the six-speed manual). The 82kW diesel comes with the option of a dual-clutch automatic transmission for improved efficiency, making the CC the first Renault to use the gearbox.

Safety is also taken care of by the standard ESP with understeer control and the automatic pyrotechnic deployment of rollover hoops should sensors detect that a rollover is imminent

Manufactured alongside the Scénic and Grand Scénic at Renault’s Douai plant in France, sales of the new Mégane will begin throughout Europe in the second quarter of this year.

Renault Australia managing director, Rudi Koenig, said the Coupé-Cabriolet would be launched alongside the Mégane hatch and RenaultSport 250 coupe around the last quarter of 2010.

“The plan is it (the CC) will be petrol-only at first and CVT only. It will be a one-stop shop if you like, because the biggest part of that market is automatic petrol so we’re focusing on that as our point of difference,” he said.

Mr Koenig said further range expansions to include a diesel model would come later and be dependent on market acceptance of the petrol version.

In Australia, the CC had a difficult year in 2009, managing just 24 sales compared to 190 in 2008. Renault sold three for the first month this year, which, on a positive note, represented a 50 percent increase over January 2009’s two.

“Clearly we’ve dropped volume in the Mégane range because our product’s getting a bit long in the tooth and we will only have small volumes until we get the new products up and running.

“The second part of the year for us will have a lot of new product activity and that will obviously improve our sales position,” Mr Koenig said.

2010 Lotus Elise Club Racer launched in Australia

Tim Beissmann — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 23:04:50 +0000

The new special edition Lotus Elise Club Racer is set to arrive in Australia this month offering new colour schemes, bespoke interior, high performance, low emissions and exclusivity to rival most other sports cars.

Lotus is bringing just 10 of the Elise S-based Club Racers to Australia.

The performance numbers remain the same: 100kW 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine, 7.6 litres/100km, 179g/km CO2, 0-100km/h in 6.1 seconds, 860kg.

Sporting a retro design featuring four classic colour schemes from the 1960s – Elite Yellow, Carbon Grey, Sky Blue and Old English White – the exterior theme is carried over to the transmission tunnel and seat shells.

The seats themselves are lightweight and clad with microfibre pads, the minimalist approach extending to the 320mm diameter leather rimmed steering wheel and aluminium foot-well flooring.

Other uniquely Club Racer features include anodised gearknob and handbrake sleeve, “CR” embroidery on the seat headrests and badging on the body, and lightweight six-spoke anthracite anodised alloy wheels with Yokohama AD07 LTS rubber.

Director of Lotus Cars, Luke Bennett, said the Lotus Elise Club Racer was a unique and highly exclusive combination of modern packaging and classic styling.

“Special editions of the award winning Elise have always proved popular with our customers around the world, and I expect the Elise Club Racer to be no different.

“We have taken colour schemes from our past, used on the Elite and Elan in the 1960s, and cleverly brought them up to date with a modern feel to the interior.

“The whole design package is contemporary with a classic feel, which of course matches the peerless ride and handling of a Lotus and the convertible experience of the Elise perfectly.”

Recommended retail pricing of the Lotus Elise Club Racer is $72,990 plus dealer delivery, statutory government and on-road charges.

2010 Renault Wind to be unveiled at Geneva

George Skentzos — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 13:14:29 +0000

Renault will reveal a completely new model at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show, a coupé-roadster simply known as the Wind.

The Renault Wind features a highly innovative way of opening up its roof, merging the relaxed lifestyle of open top motoring with the practicality of a compact city car.

The electric roof pivots into place in just 12 seconds, tucking below the rear tonneau in one swooping action, converting it from sporty compact to stylish convertible in a matter of moments.

At just 3.83 metres long, the Renault Wind is every bit as agile as you would expect from a city car while remaining as the only car in its class to provide just as much luggage space whatever the position of the roof.

The Renault Wind will be unveiled at the Renault stand at the Geneva Motor Show on March 2.

Audi R8 V10 Spyder heads to UK, R8 LMS GT3 ready for European Championship

Matt Brogan — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 21:49:38 +0000

As the UK receives its first batch of scalp-bronzing Audi R8 Spyder models, two white-knuckle versions of Audi’s own supercar are being prepared to compete in the 2010 FIA GT3 European Championships.

The latest R8 road car is based on the 386kW, 5.2-litre FSI model, but features a bespoke body incorporating additional weight-saving carbon fibre composite panels as well as the all-important fully automatic lightweight fabric hood. Good for a 4.1-second 0-100km/h sprint, and a top speed of 317km/h, the R8 Spyder is available to order in the UK now in six-speed manual and six-speed R tronic automated manual forms priced at £111,955 and £117,155 respectively (AUD$199,435 and $208,698).

The Audi R8 LMS, which takes the fixed head version of this formidable, V10-powered lightweight aluminium supercar as its basis, was developed by Audi Sport in close cooperation with quattro GmbH for “customer” motor sport teams. The first thoroughbred customer sports car in the Audi brand’s illustrious near 30-year modern motor sport history adopts an even more extreme edge through the even more extensive use of weight-paring carbon fibre, the installation of a race-spec gearbox and the removal of all standard interior trim.

United Autosports, a newly formed British racing team based in Leeds, Yorkshire, has secured two examples of the specially enhanced and race prepared super car, which has already justified its £267,000 (AUD$475,630) ‘list price’ by achieving 23 race victories throughout Europe in 2009, its debut season.

With this spectacular duo, the team aims to successfully defend the FIA GT3 European Championship title for the German ‘Vorsprung durch Technik’ manufacturer. The pair will make their maiden outing in the British GT Championship opener at Oulton Park on April 5th.

Fiat 500C is Australia’s latest topless model

Matt Brogan — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 21:13:32 +0000

First deliveries of the new Fiat 500C, the soft top version of Fiat’s award-winning bambino, have now hit Aussie roads.

The new Fiat 500C is equipped with a 1.4 litre 74 kW engine with a choice of a manual or DuaLogic gearbox, with prices starting at a recommended retail price of $28,990 for the manual version and $30,990 for the self shifting DuaLogic version, excluding statutory and on road costs.

“The Fiat 500C has to be the car to be seen in this summer,” says Mr Andrei Zaitzev, General Manager of Fiat in Australia.

“But the 500C is not only going to be as chic as her hard top sister, she will also be a lot more exclusive with just a strictly limited number available for the Australian market. This is why we released prices and specifications last year, so owners could plan their purchase and be first at the beach to take the top off their Fiat 500!

“The Fiat 500C is much more than a stylish body. It has the same quality of design and technology that has made the Fiat 500 both an award winner as well as a sales success that defied the global financial crisis.

“It shares the same technology as the 500 and that means it is as economical as it is cute, it has a five star EuroNCAP safety rating and it is comprehensively well equipped.

“To this the 500C adds a clever and innovative roof that has a glass rear window and which folds away at the press of a button. The clever design means that when closed it is as quiet and comfortable as the hard top.

“The boot space is comparable to the hard top and it is easily accessible through a cleverly hinged boot lid and, if the hood is down, pressing the boot opening button – either on the key or the lid itself – automatically signals to the roof to partially close so it does not impinge on the use of the boot.

“Indeed, it is arguable that the overall design is more suitable for the Australian climate than most convertibles as the sides of the car keep cool air inside the car, while providing the unique open top driving experience.

“Like the 500, the 500C is as clever as it is beautiful and fun to drive!”

BMW’s new 3 Series coupe and convertible

Adam Marshall — Mon, 18 Jan 2010 01:51:34 +0000

BMW plans to raise the benchmark in dynamic sporting luxury coupes and convertibles with the release of the new 3 Series.

The pictures released show changes to the front, side and rear giving the car a more dynamic and athletic look.

As well as changes to the appearance BMW have also revised the engines. Power has increased with better fuel efficiency and is now EU5 emission compliant.

Changes to the front include new dual round headlights with light rings and light bars, the bonnet and front bumper have been redesigned and the kidney grill is more three-dimensional.

The lower sill along the side has been redesigned as well as the rear bumper and the tail lights are a two piece L-shaped light cluster with LED lights.

Finishing off the changes are new colours and a modified range of leather upholstery, BMW ConnectedDrive is also offered on the new 3 Series coupe and convertible.

The new BMW 3 Series is scheduled to arrive in Australia mid 2010. Prices and specifications are not available at this time.

Volkswagen Eos White Night Australian special edition model

George Skentzos — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 05:54:40 +0000

Volkswagen has introduced a new special edition Eos available exclusively in a very limited number for the Australian market.

The new Eos White Night boasts a distinctive black and white motif with the body painted in white while elements such as the roof, radiator grille and mirror covers are in black.

The exterior is finished in “Candy White” which the roof has been painted in “Deep Black” while a splash of colour has been added at the rear with cherry-red LED tail lights.

The wheels are unique 18-inch “Budapest” alloys with a silver and black two tone finish, resting on lowered sports suspension.

A number of exterior elements have received a subtle design change to keep the theme running, with the mirror covers, radiator grille and trim strips adhering to the light and dark contrast.

Inside, the light and dark accents continue with black nappa leather seats, door and side trim and black steering wheel feature light-coloured seams.

The dash is visually divided by trim strips and radio trim in the same “Candy White” as the exterior while the sill panel strips lettered with “White Night” further enhances the contrast of the Eos White Night.

The Eos White Night is available with the choice of either TSI or TDI engine technology mated exclusively to a six speed Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG).

Retail pricing for the Eos White Night starts from $53,990 for the 103TDI model and $55,990 for the 147TSI representing a premium of $3,500 above the relevant series model.

2010 Mercedes E-Class revealed before NAIAS

Tim Beissmann — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 03:55:09 +0000

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet has been unveiled today ahead of its official debut at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January.

The new Cabriolet will be offered in E350 and E500 variants when it goes on sale in the US in May 2010.

Power outputs remain the same as the current sedan and coupe models, the 3.5-litre V6 in the E350 producing 200kW/350Nm and the 5.5-litre V8 from the E550 puts out 285kW and 530Nm of torque.

Both are mated to Mercedes’ seven-speed automatic transmission.

Visually the car shares much with the E-Class Coupe.

The interior is mostly unchanged and the main differences can be observed from the rear with the unique panelling of the boot and roof.

Mercedes has resisted the hard-top trend, instead opting for a 23mm thick cloth lid which saves space and weight and can be raised or retracted in less than 20 seconds at speeds of up to 40km/h.

The headline act on the new E-Class Cabriolet is AirCap – the combination of an air diverter blade that rises from the top of the windshield and a three-position mesh draft-stop between the rear seat headrests.

The result is one that tricks the laws of aerodynamics and dramatically decreases turbulence and air noise in the cabin when the top is down, working best between 50-240km/h.

Air normally rolls off the top of the windscreen down into the cabin but the deflector bends the air to take a similar shape to when the roof is up.

Further adding to the comfort of front seat top-down passengers is Mercedes’ headrest-embedded AirScarf neck heating system from the S-Class.

The E-Class becomes the German brand’s first convertible to offer head airbags and safety is increased by reinforced A-pillars and other braces.

Expect pricing to increase marginally over the outgoing CLK Cabriolet, which currently retails at $139,916 for the CLK350 and $170,634 for the CLK500 (manufacturer’s RRP not including dealer, statutory and on-road charges).

Audi S5 Cabriolet in Australia

Adam Marshall — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 03:37:01 +0000

Audi has released the S5 Cabriolet in Australia, making it the sportiest soft top in the Audi line up.

A supercharged three litre V6 engine with 234kW and 440Nm of torque hides under the bonnet and moves the car from zero to 100km/h in 5.6 seconds and has a governed top speed of 250km/h.

Audi’s philosophy is intelligent efficiency and the combination of supercharging with direct injection gives a combined fuel consumption of 9.7 litres/100km.

The S5 Cabriolet has servotronic speed sensitive steering, seven speed S tronic transmission and quattro drivetrain as well as 18 inch cast aluminium wheels with 245/40 tyres and black brake callipers with S5 emblems and special sports suspension tuning is all standard.

Changes to the design to help give it the sporty S look include changes to the lower front and back panels, front spoiler, the diffuser, the single frame grill, the air intakes and the four tailpipes.

Aluminium looking side mirrors and the Sprint Blue pearl paint which is exclusive to the S5 Cabriolet help make the car stand out.

The interior is the usual Audi high quality with electric seats covered in Alcantara leather. A colour driver information is standard as well as the brand’s MMI Navigation Plus system. The S5 logo can be found on the door sill trim, the key, the leather sports steering wheel and the instruments.

Different seating can be optioned, from the extra firm S sport seats to the climate controlled comfort seats. Seat coverings are available in black, brown and three two colour combinations.

Standard equipment in the Audi S5 Cabriolet consist of MMI Navigation Plus, Xenon Plus headlights, LED daytime driving lights, Advanced key access, electric, heated front seats, cruise control, Audi Parking System Plus and an acoustic soft top.

The S5 Cabriolet is available now and will set you back $138,000.

Ferrari California by Novitec Rosso

Tim Beissmann — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 23:29:25 +0000

Owning a Ferrari California would be close to motoring nirvana for most people.

But for a select few, a $472,000 prancer isn’t quite exclusive enough.

And that’s where German tuning company Novitec Rosso comes in, with its latest effort at improving perfection.

Making what it calls “tasteful refinements with aerodynamic benefits”, Novitec Rosso has done all the usual things to make the new California not so usual.

Power from the 4.3-litre V8 is up 29 kW to 368kW (or a nice round 500hp) while torque expands from 485Nm to 518Nm.

The increased power brings with it a newly calibrated engine management system with custom mapping for injection and ignition, as well as a new higher redline speed of 8300rpm.

Visually the car looks sharper with carbon fibre add-ons from nose to tail.

The front spoiler attaches to the production bumper reducing lift on the front axle and providing better directional stability at high speeds.

A newly designed diffuser for the rear apron and a lip spoiler have a similar effect on the rear axle and improve aerodynamic balance, while rocker panel moldings and black side markers are simply there to look good.

So too are the new alloys, with 21s on the front and 22s on the back emphasising the convertible’s classic wedge shape.

Custom-calibrated sports springs and ultra-low-profile tyres (255/30 ZR 21 and 315/25 ZR 22) drop the ride height by 35mm, but Novitec Rosso’s hydraulic front lift system can raise the car by 40mm at the push of a button.

Mini John Cooper Works Cabrio Review & Road Test

Matt Brogan — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 07:32:29 +0000

99 per cent fat free motoring

Model Tested:

2009 Mini R57 John Cooper Works Cabrio; 1.6-litre, four-cylinder, turbo-petrol; six-speed manual; convertible – $56,900*

Performance; personality; exhaust note; fuel economy; grippy handling
Slow & rattly roof; rear seat; ‘C’ pillar visibility; some torque steer; price

CarAdvice Rating:

Words by Matt Brogan Pics by Brendan Nish

Mini’s top-ranking John Cooper Works models have since their introduction come to represent all that’s right about modified modern motoring.

The JCW recipe takes a brand already synonymous with ten-out-of-ten enjoyment and, thanks to a few simple tweaks, brings the Mini’s competitive performance credentials to the fore.

To an untrained eye the JCW Cabrio may not look any different to its standard sibling, but therein lies its charm, for with under bonnet augmentation pumping the topless tuner’s performance’s credentials a further 27kW and 20Nm northward, you’d want to believe this is one Mini that takes itself pretty seriously.

Inside Mini’s compact cabin the familiar funky retro styling is further enhanced by slick piano black trim highlights and matching door sill finishers. Even the gearknob gains a fiery red shift-diagram in a nod to the car’s bolstered performance credentials.

Front seating is supportive, and surprisingly roomy, though the rear pews are only suitable for the occasional very short trip, stowing the handbag dog, or as additional luggage space to the rather limited 125 litres on offer up back.

The feature list is otherwise generous, as you’d probably expect at this end of the price range, with single-zone climate control air-conditioning, pumping six CD tuner, steering wheel-mounted cruise control, four-in-one power windows, electric mirrors, push-button starter, front and rear foglamps, xenon headlamps, Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity and iPod auxiliary audio input.

Mini’s dual-mode canvas roof too is completely automated, but somewhat slow at doing its thing, which is a little annoying when you’re left holding the button for 25 seconds. The roof is also a little on the rattly side and dramatically hinders ‘C’ pillar visibility when locked in place.

But refinement aside, it’s what’s at the heart of any JCW Mini that serves to raise a well plucked eye brow.

In this instance the JCW Cabrio manages an impressive total of 155kW of power – and a whopping 280Nm (overboost) of torque – from its force-fed 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine. Mated to a sweet, short-throw six-speed manual gearbox, acceleration is acutely sharp with 0-100km/h dealt with in under seven seconds, half a second faster than the regular Cooper S Cabrio on which it’s based.

The JCW Cabrio also boasts a top speed some 17km/h greater than the standard ‘S’ while, curiously, also managing better fuel consumption figures – our test model consuming only 7.3L/100km (combined) this week – a full half-litre better than its generic sibling.

Adding to the beefed up powerplant, the JCW Cabrio gains stiffer suspension, brake upgrades (now 316 x 22mm front / 280 x 10mm rear), 17-inch “Cross Spoke Challenge” alloy wheels, subtle John Cooper Works badging front and rear, chrome plated side air inlets (without “S” lettering), as well as a raucous centrally mounted dual 85mm stainless steel exhaust that snarls and crackles playfully as you swap cogs.

It’s terrific fun to drive too, with a wickedly responsive throttle, sharp brakes and super grippy handling that nearly defies the laws of front-wheel drive physics. On the downside however an over zealous right foot will induce torque steer that’s about as subtle as the lyrics in a Cypress Hill song.

With pop-up roll bars, dynamic traction control with EDLC, plus front and side airbags the JCW Cabrio earns a four-star rating from the boys at ANCAP, and with pricing nearly as cheeky as it’s personality, this little Mini scores the same from me.

Ratings:

CarAdvice Overall Rating:
How does it Drive:
How does it Look:
How does it Go:

Road Test the Rivals:

Audi A3 (from $43,900*)
BMW 1-Series (from $52,900*)
Ford Focus (from $45,490*)
Holden Astra (from $45,790*)
Mazda MX-5 (from $43,850*)
Peugeot 207CC (from $35,990*)
Volkswagen Eos (from $47,990*)

*Pricing is a guide as recommended to us by the manufacturer.

Specifications:

Engine: 1598cc DOHC four-cylinder (16 valve)
Power: 155kW @ 6000rpm
Torque: 280Nm @ 2000rpm (Overboost)
Induction: Multi-point & turbocharged
Transmission: Six-speed manual
Driven Wheels: Front
Brakes: Discs with ABS, CBC, & EBD
Top Speed: 235km/h (Claimed)
0-100km/h: 6.9 seconds
CO2 Emissions: 169g/km
Fuel Consumption: 7.1L/100km (ADR)
Fuel Consumption: 7.3L/100km (As Tested)
Fuel Tank Capacity: 50L
Fuel Type: 95-98RON Premium Unleaded
ANCAP Rating: Four-star
Airbags: Front & Side
Safety: ESC with Traction Control
Spare Wheel: (Run flat tyres)
Suspension: Strut (F) / Multi-link (R)
Cargo Capacity: 125/660L
Tow Capacity: N/A
Turning Circle: 10.7m
Warranty: Three Year / Unlimited Kilometre
Weight: 1230kg (Tare)
Wheels: Alloy 17 x 7.0-inch

Volkswagen Golf Mark VI Cabrio to be unveiled by 2010?

Matt Brogan — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 21:08:53 +0000

Unconfirmed rumours today hint that VW could reveal a new Golf Cabriolet to the Mark VI range by 2010 as it takes ownership of the former Karmann factory in Germany, and, thanks to AutoExpress, here’s a couple of pics of how it may look.

Assuming it gets the green light, Golf Cabrio will compete with such models as the Ford Focus CC and Peugeot 308CC, but unlike so many folding tin-top cabrios, Golf will instead offer a more traditional fabric top – technology shared with its Audi A3 cousin.

Should the roof technology is the same as that of Audi’s, the Golf Cabrio will utilise a multi-layer construction for impressive refinement at high speeds. The mechanism will also be fully automated and will be able to be raised or lowered at speeds of up to 30km/h – a process that should take less than 10 seconds. Once down, the roof will sit flush with the bodywork behind the rear seats.

BMW Z4 & 6 Series revisions to hit showrooms this month

Matt Brogan — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 21:48:23 +0000

With the help of BMW’s EfficientDynamics, the updated 6 Series and Z4 models arriving in showrooms this month have increased performance, improved economy and reduced emissions.

Both vehicles gain Brake Energy Regeneration as standard across the range, a feature that improves fuel consumption in the 6 Series by up to 6.8 per cent.

The new 6 Series gets a more distinctive look with bigger 19-inch alloys and lower-profile tyres (245/40 front, 275/35 rear), a swooping contoured bonnet and dark chrome tailpipes.

The V8 Valvetronic powerplant remains the same, thumping out 270kW and 490Nm of torque and launching the 650i Sport Coupé from 0-100km/h in 5.2 seconds and the 650i Sport Convertible in 5.6 seconds.

Meanwhile, the Coupé’s fuel consumption is down 5.4 per cent to a combined 10.5 litres/100km, while the Convertible has dropped even further, down from 11.7 to 10.9 litres/100km.

BMW hopes the reductions will help flagging sales of the 6 Series of which just 57 were sold in the first 10 months of the year – 46 per cent below last year’s 105 at the same point.

BMW Australia managing director Stavros Yallouridis says the efficiency improvements plus the addition of features like the new generation iDrive system with an 8.8-inch high-definition TV screen and an 80GB hard drive and new sporting trim options are a real step up from the old model.

“The new BMW 650i Sport further shapes the top end of the BMW product portfolio and signals yet another example of BMW’s uncompromised BMW EfficientDynamics strategy.”

The new BMW 650i Sport Coupé costs $227,300 and the Convertible is $245,100 (both up $6000) before dealer and on-road charges.

Fuel and emissions savings also lead the changes in the Z4, with consumption improved by between 4.2 and 7.8 per cent across the range.

The automatic sDrive23i now uses 8.2 litres/100km and emits 192 g/km CO2 (down from 207), while the heaviest drinker and worst polluter is the manual sDrive35i at 9.4 litres/100km and 219 g/km.

Mr Yallouridis says the improvements come courtesy of the brake energy regeneration, optimum shift indicators on the dash and reduced rolling resistance tyres on the base model.

“BMW is committed to improving the efficiency of all of its cars, not just a few less powerful small cars.

“There’s no reason why sports car drivers can’t meet their sporting and lifestyle needs whilst emitting fewer emissions and using less fuel.”

And drivers agree, with the Z4’s sales soaring almost 100 per cent year-to-date over 2008.

Other new features include electric power steering and a high precision injection twin turbo motor in the range-topping 35i.

The updated Z4 and 6 Series ranges will be on display in BMW showrooms later this month.

by Tim Beissmann

2010 Renault Megane CC spy pics

Matt Brogan — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 22:19:51 +0000

Though we don’t know a great deal about next year’s Renault Megane CC, these renderings, received this morning, point to a stylish newcomer set to challenge rivals such as VW’s Eos and BMW’s 1 Series.

The Renault Megane CC will no doubt share many of the same driveline specifications of its sedan sibling which will mean both petrol and diesel engine options.

At this point there is no word on pricing or Australian availability. CarAdvice will keep you posted.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabrio spy pics

Matt Brogan — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 02:12:21 +0000

Here’s prove Mercedes is hard working on the next generation E-Class Cabrio (so far called CLK) – and of the fact that the coupé’s beautiful sister will get a retractable hardtop.

Clearly visible is the joint between the windshield frame and the front edge of the roof. The wider disguise of the c-post and the longer boot lid are other details that give away the secret of this prototype.

Yet bigger and yet a bit more elegant than the outgoing model, the new CLK successors will be based on the C-class saloon. It goes without saying, however, that refinement will be done to the chassis to meet expectations of the somewhat more ambitious coupé- and cabrio-drivers.

Engines will come from the C-class line-up and will include a V8 for a E 500. We expect the coupé to arrive at the dealers in summer 2009 with the convertible following just a few months later.

Volvo C70 Review & Road Test

Anthony Crawford — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 21:21:26 +0000

Great to drive, difficult to fault, and the most underrated luxury convertible on the market.

Model Tested:

2009 Volvo C70 T5; 2.5-litre, five-cylinder, petrol; six-speed manual; convertible – $69,950

Price; quality of materials; interior space and performance

Some options such as Satellite Navagation seem expensive

CarAdvice Rating:

Options:

Fitted: Heated front seats $325; Bluetooth $450; Blind Spot Information System (BLISS) $1,275

Punch the silk smooth and free revving 2.5-litre five-cylinder turbocharged engine, and the C70 rewards you with an immediate response and a superb exhaust growl.

Volvo, quote 7.6 seconds for the 0-100km/h sprint in the manual version and that surprises me, because with 320Nm of torque on call from just 1500-5000 rpm, this convertible feels sports car quick, with no let up in acceleration through all six forward gear ratios.

I’m driving the six-speed manual C70 T5, and if there is a smoother, quicker shifting transmission out there, I haven’t driven it.

Volvo offers a five-speed Geartronic (automatic) transmission as a no cost option but, if you can drive a stick shift, do yourself a favour and enjoy the manual.

While the first generation C70 T5 was only just reasonable when it came to handling, the current model has twice its torsional rigidity and that’s evident from the moment you take the first bend.

There’s not a lot of body roll as I turn in sharply, and I can tell you that I’m hard on the right pedal.

For such a spacious and luxurious convertible, I’m pleasantly surprised by the C70 T5’s 1683 kilograms, as I expected it to weigh a little more, given the standard specifications.

That’s probably why I experienced no brake fade whatsoever, down the steep decent to Kangaroo Valley in the Southern Highlands in NSW, where the smell of cooked discs normally extinguishes the scent of the local wildflowers.

I found the brake pedal feel to be progressive, but never grabby like some.

Oddly enough, in twenty-five years of buying and selling countless vehicles, I’ve only ever owned one convertible, a pristine 1975 Alfa Romeo 2.0 Spider, which had strong a connection to the Sydney underworld.

When I called the telephone number in the paper to make an appointment to view the car, the address was a church in Sydney’s colourful Kings Cross, and the guy selling it, was an Anglican minister.

You see the non-standard Ferrari red Alfa, had been a gift from a mob boss to his mistress, who had unfortunately slammed the car into a pole one week after taking delivery.

As the minister of the cloth carefully unveiled the car, panel-by-panel, I had to stop myself screaming for joy, as it looked like it had just come off the showroom floor, inside and out. It had been completely rebuilt from the ground up, and sprayed in a nicer red than the original.

The asking price was $10,500, I offered $10,000 and I paid $10,500. At least I could say it went to a good cause.

This was 1985, and I had just picked up the bargain of the century. It was also my first prestige car and I’d borrowed the lot from the bank.

Like all Alfas built in the 60’s and 70’s era, they handled well, went hard, and in the spider’s case, were the envy of many.

I must have hit the jackpot too, as this Alfa Romeo didn’t cost me a cent over the two years I owned it, and that included a whopping 400kms on the clock, each week. Moreover, there wasn’t a spec of rust to be found anywhere throughout the car.

The problem was, I was getting married and needed fast cash, so the spider had to go. It was a heartbreaking moment of cold reality, and one of those times when you wish your parents were filthy rich, meaning, I could keep the car and get married too.

More importantly though, we intended on starting a family immediately, so there was absolutely no justification to hold on to my pride and joy, or so I was told.

The point of this digression was that in those days, a proper four-seat convertible with performance to boot, wasn’t even thought of, let alone built.

But this is 2009, and plenty has changed since the good old days.

If you’re still single and driving a drop top, chances are you’ll be able to hold on to your car, regardless of whether you tie the knot and have kids.

But here’s where Volvo’s C70 cabriolet starts to shine a little brighter amongst some very stiff competition from Germany.

For starters, it’s a practical four-seat convertible, meaning room for four large adults who can sit back in relative comfort with plenty of elbowroom between them.

All too often, convertibles are designed with token respect for rear seat passengers, with lanky, long-legged teenagers and arthritic grand parents, suffering the most pain.

Another big plus with the C70, is only realised when the roof is raised in coupe mode, and your 190cm tall friends in the rear seats won’t have to sit with their heads cocked forward in a permanent prayer position, such is the abundance of head and legroom back there.

What’s more, the rear seats are just as comfortable as the front pews. Put that down to Volvo’s anatomically correct seat design, and their choice of super supple leather trim.

That said the C70 actually looks smaller than it really is, which is down to design traits such as the transverse mounted engine (rather than longitudinal), which allows for a short front overhang and excellent crash protection due to an extended crumple zone.

It’s not a beautiful car, but it’s certainly an attractive design, which has definite on-road presence.

Renowned Italian design studio Pininfarina, was a joint venture partner in the C70 project, and were largely responsible for the clever roof design, which although relatively slow to deploy and retract (30 seconds), sets the car apart from other cars in this open air class, with its structural rigidity and complete lack of any movement or shimmy over Sydney’s medium grade potholes.

There are a host of benefits associated with folding metal roofs over the traditional soft top, such as security, structural integrity and the clean, coupe like styling when the roof is raised

The downside is that all that extra metal hardware is considerably heavier than the fabric roof and moreover it has to be stowed somewhere. That somewhere, is usually in the boot where space is seriously compromised whenever you decide to drop the top.

Now while that’s also true of the C70, there’s still plenty of room under the stowed roof for two reasonably sized soft bags. With the roof up though, the boot space increases dramatically to 400 litres.

If you’re looking at the C70 as your daily ride to the office during the peak hour madness, then you’re in for a special treat.

Volvo calls it the “Premium Sound AM/FM radio, 12 Dynaudio speakers” and it’s standard kit on the C70 T5, but believe me, it’s much, much, more than the above description would have you believe.

Put simply, you won’t find an audio system of this calibre in a car in this class, regardless of how much you are prepared to spend on the options list. The fact that it’s a standard bit of kit is even more remarkable.

The clarity and power delivered by this 910 W system is staggering; and it doesn’t seem to matter whether the roof is up or down, the sound is just as impressive.

Inside the C70 is a nice place to be, as the materials and finish, are top shelf.

Volvo’s minimalist approach to interior design means that you won’t find any switchgear clutter, but you will need to browse through their options list if you want technology such as Satellite Navigation.

The world over knows that Volvo wrote the book on automotive safety, so as expected, the C70 is fitted with an encyclopaedic inventory of passive and active safety devices including; Side Impact Protection System (SIPS), Whiplash Protection System (WHIPS) and Rollover Protection System (ROPS).

Even with the roof down, the Inflatable Curtain (IC) is designed to inflate and protect the driver in the event of a side impact while the Roll Over Protection System (ROPS) protects passengers in a roll over.

But driver and passenger safety underpins each and every Volvo, and runs a lot deeper than simply installing safety devices in order to collect crash test ratings stars; it’s about the structural integrity they build into their cars from the chassis up.

For example, the Hydro-formed A-pillars in extra high strength steel working with ROPS bars, seat belt pretensioners and door mounted inflatable curtains, provide better roll over protection.

Even the body structure is further developed with reinforced sides to effectively channel the forces backwards in a frontal impact.

You probably haven’t heard of BLISS (Blind Spot Information System), but its on the options list, and I highly recommend you tick that box.

Under each side mirror, there is a small camera facing rearwards, which monitors blind spots caused by the B and C pillars. When an object is detected in that zone, a small orange warning light is activated to warn you. It’s simple enough, yet very effective.

Volvo’s C70 T5 is unquestionably a luxury convertible, which represents a lot of car for $69,950 although, if you don’t need the extra performance of the T5 model, then the C70 S at $59,950, is equally good value.

The 2010 MY C70 will be arriving in Australia in March 2010, but prices are unlikely to remain in the line with the current range.

*Pricing is a guide as recommended to us by the manufacturer.

Ratings:

CarAdvice Overall Rating:
How does it Drive:
How does it Look:
How does it Go:

Specifications:

Engine: 2521cc DOHC turbocharged in-line five-cylinder
Power: 169kW @ 5000 rpm
Torque: 320Nm @ 1500-5000 rpm
Transmission: Six-speed manual
Driven Wheels: Front-wheel drive
Top Speed: 240km/h (Claimed)
0-100km/h: 7.6 seconds (Claimed)
CO2 Emissions: 217 g/km
Fuel Consumption: 9.1/100km (ADR)
Fuel Tank Capacity: 62L
Fuel Type: Petrol 95-98 RON
ANCAP Rating: Not tested. Top Safety Pick 2009 IIHS
Spare Wheel: Space saver
Cargo Capacity: 200L/404L
Turning Circle: 11.8 metres
Warranty: Three Year/Unlimited km
Weight: 1683 kilograms
Wheels & tyres: Alloy 18-inch with 235/40
Brakes: Front ventilated 320mm disc-brakes with ABS, EBD & EBA, Rear: Solid 280mm discs
Airbags: Dual Front dual stage, Front SIPS airbags & Inflatable Curtain (also works with roof down)
Safety: Dynamic Stability and Traction Control (DSTC), SIPS, WHIPS

BMW 6 Series now sportier and more efficient

George Skentzos — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 06:22:58 +0000

BMW has introduced a raft of new performance features as well as an improved fuel consumption figure for its revised 6 Series Sport Coupé and Convertible.

Due to arrive on Australian shores in November, the revised 6 Series gains Brake Energy Regeneration technology as standard equipment which improves consumption by up to 6.8 per cent without sacrificing performance.

The 650i Sport Coupé is now rated at 10.5 litres per 100km representing a 5.4 per cent improvement while the 650i Sport Convertible improves by 6.8 per cent, for a new combined cycle rating of 10.9 litres per 100km.

The technology forms part of BMW’s EfficientDynamics repertoire and reduces fuel consumption by generating electric power from energy otherwise wasted as lost heat in the brake system.

“The new BMW 650i Sport further shapes the top end of the BMW product portfolio and signals yet another example of BMW’s uncompromised BMW EfficientDynamics strategy,” said BMW Group Australia managing director Stavros Yallouridis.

Both models also feature a new contoured engine compartment lid with arrow-shaped character lines, new 19-inch light allow wheels with low profile tyres, BMW Individual high-gloss shadow line, tailpipes in dark chrome and an exhaust system with a distinctive sound character.

The latest generation iDrive control system has also been added featuring a high resolution 8.8” monitor with professional navigation, high definition TV and fixed 80GB hard drive.

Sport seats in four choices of leather trim, an M leather steering wheel, interior strips in brushed aluminium, an anthracite-coloured BMW Individual roof liner and a lighting package define the sporty character of the interior.

Two new exterior colours are also available, Imola Red and Carbon Black, with exclusive Pearl leather upholstery inside which can be replaced with Saddle Brown light, Chateau, Cream Beige or Black at no extra cost.

Pricing for the new BMW 650i Sport Coupé is $227,300 and $245,100 for the BMW 650i Sport Convertible.