SUBSCRIBE FREE: www.GoAutoMedia.com ADVERTISE: Steve Butcher Ph: 0419 562 110 [email protected]July 14, 2010 No. 540 Go AutoNews John Mellor’s Australia’s No.1 Automotive Industry Journal 70,000 Readers Weekly Light bulb Light bulb The lights are not just on but are blazing at Hyundai as the new i20 hits town By TERRY MARTIN ON TRACK for 80,000-plus sales in Australia this year, Hyundai today launched arguably its most important new vehicle – the Indian-built i20 – which will eventually take over from the Getz as one of its biggest- selling models. Pricing the i20 from a competitive $14,990 (plus on-road costs) for the three- door opener, Hyundai Motor Co Australia has, as expected, positioned the light- sized car upstream of the $13,990 Getz, providing for a smooth run-out of the latter in the coming months and room for the smaller sub-light i10 – a second Indian- sourced model for the South Korean brand that is expected to be launched here early next year. Just as the i30 small car has overtaken the still-strong-selling Getz over the past 12-18 months as the company’s number- one model in Australia, the i20 is crucial to HMCA’s quest to become one of the top- three car companies in Australia, with the fastest-growing mainstream brand having targeted a market share of around 10 per cent by 2012. After another record month in June, in which it sold more than 8000 cars to take fourth position from Mazda to sit behind market leaders Toyota, Holden and Ford, Hyundai has recorded more than 42,000 sales for the first six months of 2010 to be 41.5 per cent ahead of the same period in 2009 – a year in which it defied the economic downturn to lift sales 39 per cent on the previous year when the market overall fell more than seven per cent. This year’s first-half result is Hyundai’s best, and represents an eight per cent share of the new-vehicle market – just 0.1 per cent behind Mazda, 1.3 per cent shy of Ford, and 1.4 per cent more than where Hyundai was at the same point last year. As GoAuto has documented, recently released new-generation models in the ix35 compact SUV and i45 medium sedan will, with the i20, fuel further growth, along with more all-new models due to be launched in 2011 – i10, the redesigned Accent ( ‘i15’) and Elantra (‘i35’), and the Accent-sized Veloster (aka the ‘i25 Coupe’). This is to say little about various new model derivatives, such as wagons, diesels and petrol-electric hybrids – or a mini SUV, medium and large coupes, an all-new large sedan and, further down the track, even a one-tonne utility. But for now our focus is trained on the i20, which as anticipated has arrived in Australia in three-door and five-door body styles, with a 1.4-litre petrol four-cylinder engine powering both versions at the entry level (now known as Active) and a 1.6-litre available in mid-series (Elite, from $18,490) and high-series (Premium, from $21,490) five-door model variants. Continued next page P P P P P P P P P P P P P P Pre Pre Pre Pre Pre Pre Pre Pre Pre Pre Pre re Pre Pre Pre Pre Pre Pre P P Pre Pr Pre e re Pre Pr Pre Pre P Pre P Pre r Pre r P Pre P P P miu miu miu m miu miu miu miu miu miu miu miu miu miu miu miu miu miu miu miu m miu miu miu miu miu mi iu i mi mi m mi mi m m miu m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m PORSCHE REINVENTS ITS CAYENNE SUV - page 3
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PUBLISHER: John MellorEDITOR: Terry Martin MANAGING EDITOR: Marton PettendyJOURNALISTS: Byron Mathioudakis, James Stanford Philip Lord, David HassallPRODUCTION: Luc Britten, Gavin van Langenberg Haitham RazaguiSUB-EDITOR: Ron HammertonProduced by GoAutoMedia: Ph: (03) 9598 6477 [email protected]
Congratulations to Crichton and his team at Neil Buckby Motors Launceston for winning the Mercedes-Benz Provincial/Rural Dealer of the Year for 2009. Auto-IT is proud to provide the Dealer Management System that powers your business.
X5 even betterX5 even betterContinued from previous page
The result is a drop of 1.3 seconds – to
6.8 seconds – for the 0-100km/h dash, while
at the same time reducing fuel consumption
from 11.7 to 10.1L/100km.
Next step up is the second diesel-engined
X5, the X5 xDrive40d Sport, at $113,300. The
Sport designation indicates that the ‘Sport’
package, which is optional on xDrive30d and
xDrive35i models, comes standard.
The Sport package includes a choice of
two new alloy wheel designs, a sports leather
steering wheel, BMW Individual anthracite
roof lining and fi rmer sports suspension. The
sports suspension can be deleted at no extra
cost and this is often preferred on Australia’s
less than smooth roads, on which BMW’s
already fi rm suspension and run-fl at tyres
can feel harsh.
The xDrive40d Sport replaces the
xDrive35d in the range and its 3.0-litre
twin-turbo direct-injection diesel engine has
been tweaked to deliver 15kW and 20Nm
more than the previous model. That puts it
at 225kW and a thumping 600Nm of torque;
enough to propel the X5 to 100km/h in just
6.6 seconds – down from 7.0 seconds. Also
down is fuel consumption, to 7.5L/100km –
a drop of 15 per cent.
As in previous iterations, the range-topping
X5 is powered by a V8 petrol engine, but the
4.8-litre V8 of the xDrive48i is gone and in
its place is a smaller-capacity 4.4-litre twin-
turbocharged V8 engine from the X6.
The X5 xDrive50i Sport, to use its full
title, benefi ts from an extra 39kW and
an incredible 125Nm of boost to deliver
0-100km/h acceleration in just 5.5 seconds.
Peak fi gures are 300kW and 600Nm, while
maximum torque is available from just
1750rpm through to 4500rpm.
Fuel consumption for the V8 remains
unchanged at 12.5L/100km, indicating that
the twin-turbocharged 4.4 engine is thirstier
than the naturally aspirated 4.8, but is helped
out by the new eight-speed transmission.
As indicated by the nomenclature, the X5
xDrive50i Sport has the Sports pack as
standard, but in this case self-levelling rear
suspension is also included.
Pricey options can add considerable
expense to many European vehicles and the
X5 does not escape this phenomenon. BMW
has bundled many popular options together
and made them available as packages to make
tailoring the vehicle simpler and less costly.
As well as the Sports and Executive
packages already mentioned, an M Sport
package is available on all four models. It
adds a deeper front bumper, 20-inch alloy
wheels and V8-style exhaust tips on all
engine variants. Sports suspension is also a
part of the M Sport package, but again it can
be deleted if a softer ride is preferred over
more dynamic handling.
FULL STORY: CLICK HEREDRIVE IMPRESSIONS: CLICK HERE
M5 preview – page 18
xDrive40d Sport
xDrive50i Sport
Alias Digital ModellerHolden Special Vehicles have been at the forefront of designing and developing Australiaʼs favourite performance vehicles for over twenty years. We are seeking an experienced Alias Digital Modeller to join our highly motivated Design team. Our purpose built Design Studio is located at head office, based in Clayton.
As part of this small close-knit studio team, you will be involved in all aspects of the surface development of all our exterior and interior components, often working at a challenging pace. We require a person who is confident surfacing accurately to scan data as well as being able to create quicker sketch models and work to stringent deadlines.
A minimum of two years experience in Autodesk Alias Surface Studio and the ability to work autonomously and at times under pressure is required. Previous Automotive A class surfacing experience will be an advantage.
Your opinions, new ideas and creativity will be highly valued. We realise that our people are the key to our continued success, and as such you will be rewarded with an excellent salary package.
All applications should include a full resumé with a one page summary of relevant skills, and should be emailed to the attention of the Human Resource Manager at: [email protected] by close of business Friday 30th July 2010.
The Automotive Dealer Management (ADM) program is run in conjunction with the University of Melbourne. This a high level intensive and practical program aimed at aspiring dealership ‘leaders’ or current DP’s wishing to refocus their efforts.
Highlights include:
focused management facilitation
Certificate in Automotive Dealer Management issued by the University of Melbourne
designed to accommodate current and future Dealership
not withstanding the potential envisaged as a result of successfully completing this program.
Participants will receive focused tuition and coaching from
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF LEADERS...
If you believe the Sewells DLP or ADM programs will be the cornerstone of your personal and business development and would like more information, including a comprehensive brochure, then please contact us.
DEPARTMENTAL MANAGEMENT DEALERSHIP MANAGEMENT
Top CatTop Cat
By JOHN CRAWFORDJAGUAR’S new XJ sedan has landed
Down Under with a fresh look, blistering
performance and higher pricing than
originally announced last year.
The fl agship Jaguar sedan has been
conservatively tasked with selling just 120
vehicles a year – well below the volumes of
the XJ in its heyday of the 1960s and 1970s.
But Jaguar Australia hopes the XJ will
boost the whole Jaguar brand in Australia
with its halo, building on the aura produced
by the smaller XF that arrived last year.
Jaguar design chief Ian Callum’s bold – some
might say controversial – design eschews the
conventional lines of its predecessor, featuring
a sweeping, teardrop profi le with almost coupe-
like style. Its shape suggests hatchback, but
under the boot lid is a huge 520-litre space.
At the other end, four engine choices start
with a 202kW/600Nm 3.0-litre turbo-diesel
and continue with three versions of the third-
generation AJ petrol 5.0-litre V8 – a normally
aspirated unit producing 283kW, and two
supercharged versions, producing 346kW
and 375kW.
The latter is the performance champion,
sprinting from zero to 100km/h in 4.7
seconds, outpacing all but the 6.0-litre V12
versions of the Benz S-class and BMW
760Li (both 4.6 seconds).
Naturally, the diesel carries the big
Jaguar’s green credentials with a combined
fuel economy rating of 7.0 litres per 100km.
This betters both the Mercedes S350 CDI
(7.7L/100km) and BMW 730d (7.2L/100km).
The XJ oil-burner’s claimed 0-100km/h
acceleration is also impressive for a 3.0-litre
diesel limo, at 6.4 seconds, compared with
the diesel Mercedes’ 7.3 and BMW’s 7.2.
All Jaguar XJ models share a ZF connect-
by-wire six-speed auto transmission, with
steering column paddles for manual-style
cog-swapping. The driver can override the
automatic transmission at any point or fl ick
the transmission controller in S mode for
Sport which allows for manual shifting and
will not change up before the driver is ready.
The traditional automatic transmission
selector has been replaced by a chrome
JaguarDrive rotary selector that pops from
the centre console.
The XJ makes extensive use of aluminium,
magnesium and high-tensile steel to keep the
weight down to just 1755kg for the lightest
model – undercutting the lightest BMW 7
Series by almost 100kg and the lightest
Benz S-class by 55kg.Continued next page
PRICING:3.0D SWB Premium Luxury (a) $198,800
3.0D LWB Premium Luxury (a) $206,800
5.0 V8 SWB Premium Luxury (a) $251,000
5.0 V8 LWB Premium Luxury (a) $259,000
5.0 V8 SWB Portfolio (a) $274,800
5.0 S/C SWB Portfolio (a) $311,000
5.0 S/C SWB Supersport (a) $354,800
5.0 S/C LWB Supersport (a) $367,800
XJ fl agship arrives with hot performance and a new look to rev Jaguar’s image
Mercedes-Benz is seeking a dynamic individual to lead the Product team in delivering a high level of service and outcomes.
Responsible for supporting the sales & marketing function, the role includes development & implementation of van product and pricing strategies, meeting market share and profit goals & day to day operations managing a small team.
Some of your key responsibilities include:
Managing vehicle ordering/production/planning, reporting and analysis, design and delivery of product training activities. Feasibility studies on new product strategies, inventory monitoring and leading the Product Review Steering Committee.
To be successful in this position you will need to demonstrate a high level of organisational ability, acute attention to detail and well developed communication skills. You will need a flexible ‘can do’ attitude and initiative, coupled with a ‘hands on’ approach. You will be a key member of the team’s success, so drive and enthusiasm are essential.
You will preferably have a thorough understanding of the automotive industry but most importantly, we are seeking a passionate individual who is not afraid to take responsibility and deliver outstanding outcomes. Ideally, you will also be proficient in the use of Microsoft Office, SAP, Cognos & POLK systems.
Sound like you? Please forward your application to [email protected] no later than close of business Thursday 22nd July 2010.
Plan to succeed!Product & Sales Planning Manager – Mercedes-Benz Vans
Top CatTop CatContinued from previous page
A faster steering rack from the smaller XF
model sharpens on-road response, as does a
selectable ‘dynamic mode’ that instantly
sharpens the throttle response, increases the
weight of the steering system and fi rms up
the damping.
Available in three trim levels – Premium
Luxury, Portfolio and Supersports – the XJ
range comes in standard wheelbase or a
125mm-stretched long-wheelbase model for
a more specious rear compartment, along
with more expansive rear doors for easier
entry and exit.
The V6D opens the pricing at $198,800
in short-wheelbase Premium Luxury form,
with the longer version costing an extra
$8000 but $5000 more than was announced
by Jaguar Australia in September last year.
These XJ diesel prices are right on top
of the BMW 730d but some $16,000 more
affordable than the Benz diesel S-class.
The lowest-priced petrol V8s start at
$251,000 and $259,000 for the standard and
long-wheelbase cars respectively. This makes
the XJ Jaguars around $23,000 and $32,000
cheaper than their natural BMW competitors,
the twin-turbo V8 750i and 750iL.
The S-class Mercedes V8 models are
almost $43,000 (500S) and $53,000 (500L)
more expensive than the V8 Jaguar XJs.
Jaguar Australia has positioned two standard-
wheelbase Portfolio mid-range models up
against the Porsche Panamera ($275,000)
and the Maserati Quattroporte ($286,000).
Equipped with either the 5.0-litre naturally
aspirated V8 or supercharged V8, these models
meet those competitors on equal ground.
The entry-level Premium Luxury
models include all the goodies you expect
– navigation, premium sound, leather,
proper wood and grunt.
The Supersports versions – due in
August – gain Aniline leather seats, leather
headlining, leather trim on upper fascia,
purple fl ock-lined glovebox, interior mood
lighting and supercharged performance.
All models share a hi-tech 12.3-inch TFT
high-defi nition display for the instruments.
Instead of traditional gauges, information is
presented digitally in three rings.
There is also an innovative dual-view
eight-inch touch-screen that can project
DVD movies or television programs to the
passenger, while the driver views vehicle
functions or follows satellite-navigation.
Audio purists can opt for a 1200w audio
system developed exclusively for the range
by Bowers & Wilkins.
FULL STORY: CLICK HEREDRIVE IMPRESSIONS: CLICK HERE
New & Pre-Owned Cars & Vans Sales Executives- A successful sales history in the retail automotive industry- Passion for luxury automobiles- Immaculate presentation, confident and self motivated- Excellent verbal and written communication skills- Exceptional customer service skills- Ability to thrive in a fast paced environment- Attractive retainer and commission package on offerwith fully maintained company vehicle
Customer Relations Officer- Maintain and maximise customer database opportunities- Manage customer follow-up calls and SMS processes- Analyse customer satisfaction data and providerecommendations for improvement
- Focus on exceeding customer expectations- Contribute to dealership customer service anddatabase targets
- Experience with customer relations in a dealershipcapacity will be highly regarded
- Attractive remuneration package is on offer whereperformance is rewarded
Apprentice Technicians- Inspired by automotive- Enthusiastic team player with a can-do attitude- Have attention to detail and be highly adaptable- High level of personal commitment and strong work ethic
Parts Storeman- Locate parts, control credit returns, check incominggoods, pick and despatch orders
- Highly organised and efficient with attention to detail- Computer literate and ability to work autonomously- Experience in the Automotive Industry, Stock Controlor a Technical background will be highly regarded
- Attractive remuneration structure where performanceis rewarded
IT Support- Ability to maintain IT servers with experience inmulti-site networking
- Provide IT help desk for all dealership staff- Develop and maintain dealership management system- Ordering and maintenance of hardware and software- Experience with dealership management systems andAuto IT/UNIT’s an advantage
- Attractive remuneration structure is on offer withflexible part-time hours
Fully Qualified Automotive Technicians- Strong mechanical, technical and diagnostic skills- A solid track record of performance- High level of personal commitment and strong work ethic- Experience with Mercedes-Benz passenger carswill be highly regarded
Shining Stars Wanted.
A D
aim
ler B
rand
3 Point Motors, a shining star in the Mercedes-Benz dealer network with locations inFairfield and Kew, is now under new management and due to strong growth andexpansion of dealership facilities, requires the following shining stars:
All candidates are required to hold a current Victorian Drivers Licence. Confidential applications with a covering lettercan be emailed to our Chief Executive, Dealer Principal, Sam Curtis at: [email protected]
eAUCTIONSReal-time auctions by Europe’s leading eAuctioneer gives you guaranteed auction fever.
Autorola eAuctions gives sellers and buyers of motor vehicles a timely, cost effective and convenient remarketing platform. Tailored to any size of eet or auction volume. It is your eet and with Autorola you decide how, when and to whom you offer your cars.
Now also Weekly Fleet, Lease & Rental Trade Auctions open to registered trade buyers. Trade-only. Log-on to www.autorola.com.au to register and join the auction crowd online now!
For more information, please call Andrew Sorensen on 0430 906 697 or email [email protected]
AUTOMOTIVE SUPPLY CHAIN DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM — ELEMENT 3
APPLICATIONS NOW OPENApplications are now being accepted for the Australian Government’s Automotive Supply Chain Development Program (ASCDP) — Element 3
The ASCDP is providing $20 million to 2012–13 to assist the automotive components sector enhance its capabilities and better integrate into local and global supply chains.
Element 3 of the program is designed to support Tier 1 suppliers to Motor Vehicle Producers to implement development strategies for their own suppliers and other businesses further down the supply chain and assist them to more effectively identify and secure emerging opportunities.
Applications close 7 August 2010 with successful applicants being notifi ed in the third quarter of 2010.
For further information please refer to the Information for Applicants document on the Department’s website at www.innovation.gov.au or contact the Automotive Policy Section, Manufacturing Division, Department of Innovation, Industry, Science and Research on +612 6213 7088 or +612 6213 7785 or by email to [email protected].
LY CHAIN DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM — ELEMENT 3
Mercedes uncovers its all-electric SLS ahead of 2013 market launch
SLS E-Cell risesSLS E-Cell rises
By TERRY MARTINTRUE to its word, Mercedes-Benz has
unveiled a near-production version of its all-
electric SLS AMG supercar as the German
manufacturer works towards a 2013 market
introduction.
Now dubbed the E-Cell, the eco version
of the latest-generation gullwing is being
developed under the ‘AMG Performance
2015’ strategy and has arrived in built-up
form after the chassis was unveiled at the
Frankfurt motor show last September.
In April, Mercedes-AMG chairman and
managing director Volker Mornhinweg – who
has since moved on to become the head of
Mercedes’ vans unit – told GoAuto that it was
preparing to show the all-electric supercar in
near-production form as engineering and
development work continued full-steam
ahead, with a full production version expected
on sale in 2013.
Now, the German performance division
has obliged, revealing the SLS AMG
E-Cell in working prototype form – and
fi nished in unique fl uorescent ‘AMG
lumilectric magno’ paintwork.
“The gullwing offers the prospect of a
possible small series production run and
at the same time refl ects the innovative
strength and development competence of
the AMG performance brand,” the company
said in a statement.
Mr Mornhinweg’s replacement, Ola
Kaellenius, who offi cially took the reins this
month, added: “It is our goal to continually
reduce the fuel consumption and emissions
of new models in the coming years, while
at the same time enhancing the core brand
value of performance.”
This SLS-based model rollout will begin in
Australia next month as fi rst deliveries of the
$464,000, conventional-engine SLS
arrive here, satisfying an order bank
that is now at 52 units from a total
2010 allocation of 70 cars.
Mercedes-Benz Australia/
Pacifi c has advised that a similar
allocation is expected for 2011.
The fi rst model designed
completely in-house by Mercedes-
AMG, the SLS is also still expected
to spawn a convertible, while a
smaller derivative dubbed the ‘baby SLS’
is widely anticipated to enter production
around 2013, sans gullwing doors and
drawing its power from the new direct-
injection V8 engine family which includes
twin-turbocharged 4.7-litre M278 and 5.5-
litre M157 versions.
As GoAuto has reported, the SLS is
powered by a 420kW/650Nm dry-sump
version of AMG’s exclusive 6.2-litre V8,
which drives the rear wheels through a
seven-speed dual-clutch automated manual
transaxle. It propels the super-coupe from
0-100km/h in a claimed 3.8 seconds, on its
way to a top speed of 317km/h.
Fuel economy is rated at 13.2L/100km,
while its offi cial CO2 emissions output is
308g/km.
The zero-emissions E-Cell, on the
other hand, uses four electric motors
positioned near the wheels, with one
transmission per axle transmitting the
power. The combined peak power output
is, as outlined at Frankfurt last year,
392kW, while maximum torque is 880Nm
“available virtually from a standstill”.Continued page 22
This respected global automotive company has enjoyed market leadership for many years. Admired for innovation, quality, customer satisfaction and being environmentally responsible, this fi rm continues to set the industry benchmark.
COMMERCIAL ANALYST• Global OEM
• Port Melbourne• $80k plus package neg.
You will make a crucial contribution to vehicle forecasting and business planning of the organisation. Day to day you will have responsibility for the following inputs to the planning cycle:• Macro economic analysis.• Market intelligence and competitor SWOT.• Develop and present economic and vehicle forecast.• Sales and market share data analysis and reporting at numerous levels.• Establish dealer network objectives, review performance and implement solutions.
Your ability to use data to ‘drill down’ into detailed commercial issues and identify trends will be vital, as is the ability to implement practical solutions to drive change throughout the organisation. Equally important is your understanding of practical market dynamics and relevance of macro economic factors and government policy.
You will be a key link in the organisation and provide data and analysis to all internal levels and the dealer network. Your ability to develop and sustain close relationships will be based on your credibility, initiative and interpersonal style.
The successful applicant will have at a minimum:• 5 years post graduation (EcoBus/Accounting) business experience.• Advanced computer skills with strengths in Excel (Analytics, pivot tables, VBA). • Excellent report preparation skills with an eye for detail.• Experience in a capital equipment or automotive multinational head offi ce
would be a distinct advantage.• Willingness to travel interstate (approx 6 times per year).
A fabulous work culture, supportive leadership and excellent benefi ts. (Subsidised car lease, signifi cant super, phone and laptop).
Apply now email [email protected] or call Blair Barker on (03) 9836 2211 with confidential questions prior to applying.
By TERRY MARTINMERCEDES-BENZ has moved to
strengthen its position in the specialist
military vehicle market, unveiling a new
armoured model based on its G-class
wagon at the 2010 Eurosatory expo – the
world’s premier land warfare exhibition –
in Paris recently.
Dubbed the 6.X, the diesel-powered
light armoured patrol vehicle (LAPV) was
developed in collaboration with global
defence supplier EADS and extends on
the current LAPV 5.4 – also based on the
G-Wagen – with higher degrees of agility,
protection and carrying capacity.
These include a 1.3-tonne payload,
approach and departure angles of 50 and
45 degrees respectively, and a full steel
body with ballistic protection.
The latter incorporates a modular
armoured plate system that includes a
mine-defl ector plate on the fl oor of the
vehicle and enables damaged plates to be
removed quickly and replaced with new or
extra plates.
Off-road performance is also enhanced
with the fi tment of variable-lift front and
rear coil-over air shock absorbers which
are adjustable on the fl y and enable the
ground clearance of the 6.X to be raised as
high as 450mm.
FULL STORY: CLICK HERE
Brooklands beastBrooklands beast
By RON HAMMERTONNOT content with the stonking performance
Bentley uses Goodwood to show off Continental Supersports Convertible
Soft-top SuperstarSoft-top Superstar
The Miedecke Motor Group is one of Port Macquarie’s largest mul -franchise dealerships, servicing the Mid North NSW Coast for over 30 years.
At Miedecke Motors we go the extra mile to ensure that a customer’s rst visit is de nitely not their last, and we endeavour to build a community
feeling amongst our sta and customers. Our growing business now requires an addi onal business manager and two sales professionals looking for
a work challenge with career advancement opportuni es and the bonus of a great place to live.
BUSINESS MANAGER Repor ng to the Dealer principal, you will ensure that every opportunity is made to meet targets through the provision of nance and insurance
products to customers and clients whilst ensuring that high levels of customer service and regulatory requirements are met and maintained.
We are interested in receiving applica ons from candidates who have successfully completed and gained accredita on in PS 146 requirements and
while it is desirable that you have further studies in nance and insurance, it is not essen al.
GROUP FLEET SALESAn experienced eet sales professional to service exis ng Fleet customers and grow the Fleet business across the group and its many franchise brands,
which include Mercedes-Benz, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, Hyundai, Jeep and Kia.
NEW CAR SALESAn experienced new car sales professional is required to join our Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Mercedes-Benz sales team and further develop our
ongoing sales success.
The successful applicants for these posi ons will have proven records of success in their relevant elds and be able to demonstrate a focus on
customer service. Generous remunera on packages are available based on experience. Applica ons treated in strictest con dence. Please indicate
the desired posi on in your covering le er and send resumés to the dealer principal Andrew Miedecke on email: [email protected]
Australia’s LARGEST selling Toyota dealer is seeking a motivated individual for the following position:
NEW VEHICLE SALES MANAGER – KEDRON DEALERSHIPThis is a fantastic opportunity for an outstanding Sales Manager with a proven track record to manage our No. 1 selling Toyota branch at Kedron. To be successful, you will need to posses strong leadership and management skills, be results and customer focused and be able to lead your team to achieve extraordinary results.
A generous remuneration package is on offer that rewards excellence.
If you are interested in this position, please contact Kylie Edmonds on 07 3361 0052 or email your CV to [email protected].
Sci-Fleet Toyota. Totally Toyota.
• A family owned and operated local business, servicing South East QLD for over 30 years.• Australia’s largest selling Toyota dealership and 15th largest dealer globally.• The success of the business has been built on a strong focus to customer satisfaction and a team of motivated employees.• Over 400 staff employed across multiple dealerships and franchises throughout South East QLD.• Our vision projects well into the future with continual growth across our three brands; Toyota, Lexus & Hino.• Sci-Fleet Motors is an equal opportunity employer and provides a discrimination free workplace.
Visit www.scifleet.com.au
AN OPPORTUNITY TO JOIN ONE OF AUSTRALIA’S MOST SUCCESSFUL TOYOTA FRANCHISES?
ABOUT US
M Sport bodykit offersa clue to BMW’s newtwin-turbo super-sedan
M5 previewM5 preview
By MARTON PETTENDYTHE fi nal example of BMW’s current
Applicants should possess above average communication skills and dealership experience, although we will consider associated industry experience from the right applicant. Self-motivation is a key attribute that we require for this position. This is your chance to ‘drive your career’ to the next level.
To arrange a confidential interview, please contact [email protected].
Norris Motor Group is an equal opportunity employer.
The Norris Motor Group has been in operation for 25 years and is one of Queensland’s most successfully operated motor dealer groups. Now that Norris Motor Group Volkswagen, Brisbane’s newest Northside Volkswagen dealer has opened, we are looking for a range of positions to be filled. We offer a highly competitive salary package plus a generous commission/bonus structure. Successful applicants will be working in our new state-of-the-art facility in Kedron.
508 looks great508 looks great
Peugeot combines 407 and 607 to create the sleek new 508 large car familyBy TERRY MARTIN
A beautifully presented self-contained holiday apartment close to Cable Beach at Blue Seas Resort is now for sale. This property is the benchmark for well-built, low maintenance accommodation and is a proven earner in the market. Rarely offered, this apartment is fully equipped with quality ttings, high ceilings and accommodation for 4 people. Holiday yourself
when in Broome or rent it out nightly via the onsite managers.
Invest in BroomeHoliday at Cable Beach
a Rare OpportunityFor full property details please contact Tony Hutchinson on phone (08) 9192 1677, mobile 0418 938 198 or email: [email protected]
By MARTON PETTENDYIT WAS revealed at the Geneva motor show
in March and now Fiat has fi tted its new two-
cylinder TwinAir engine into the diminutive
500 in Italy, but not for Australia.
Designed specifi cally to meet CO2
emissions limits within Europe’s carbon-
based tax regime, which has so far not been
replicated in Australia, Ateco says the hi-tech
new two-pot is too expensive to replace the
500’s entry-level engines in Australia.
They include the 51kW/102Nm 1.2-litre
four-cylinder petrol engine that powers the
base 500 1.2 Pop manual, which opens the
Australian range at $22,990 driveaway,
and the 74kW/131Nm 1.4-litre petrol four,
which costs $24,990 driveaway in the 500
1.4 Pop Dualogic.
Designed by Fiat Powertrain
Technologies (FPT), Italy’s newest engine
combines a version of Fiat’s patented
MultiAir induction system with a new
downsized 875cc twin-cylinder engine in
the born-again 500, the 500,000th example
of which rolled off the Fiat Auto plant at
Tychy in Poland in late March.
The result is the Fiat 500 TwinAir,
powered by a turbocharged inline twin-
cylinder engine mounted transversely up
front, which delivers a claimed 62.5kW
of power at 5500rpm (more than the 500’s
current 1.2 but less than the 1.4) and 145Nm
of torque at 1900rpm – enough to top both
of the 500’s current petrol engines.
FULL STORY: CLICK HERE
ForTwo tweaksForTwo tweaks
By TERRY MARTINDAIMLER has announced an upgrade for
its Smart ForTwo Coupe and Cabrio ahead
of their debut at the Paris motor show in
September and expected Australian release
late this year.
While the German manufacturer continues
to work with Renault on an all-new shared
micro-car platform – with the fi rst models
from this partnership due to hit the streets in
2012/13 – the midlife makeover for the second-
generation 451-series ForTwo introduces a
host of minor improvements as competition
intensifi es from both traditional and left-fi eld
rivals in the ultra-compact car segment.
Included among the changes are new
exterior colours, cabin enhancements
and tweaks to the Mitsubishi-sourced
1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine –
in both naturally aspirated micro hybrid
drive (MHD) and turbocharged form –
that improve the rear-engine/rear-drive
ForTwo’s environmental credentials.
According to Mercedes, “detailed work on
the engine control unit and exhaust system” of
the 52kW/92Nm MHD unit results in a fuel
consumption fall from 4.4L/100km to 4.2 on
the combined cycle, while CO2 emissions
drop below 100g/km – from 105 to 97 grams.
The 62kW/120Nm turbocharged triple
also benefi ts from ECU and exhaust work,
with its CO2 output falling 2g/km to 114. Its
fuel consumption remains at 4.9L/100km.
The higher-performance Brabus version
also gains a power increase to 75kW (up
3kW), with no penalties on the eco front
as a result, although this model is currently
unavailable in Australia.
Buyers will, however, have the ability
with the general upgrade to order features
previously restricted to the Brabus, such as
daytime running lights. Three new 15-inch
alloy wheel designs will also be introduced.
Other changes, which are designed to
give the ForTwo “a completely new face”,
include a new matt light green colour option
and fresh opportunities for custom paintwork
such as a body-coloured front spoiler, side
skirts and rear apron.
FULL STORY: CLICK HERE
Fiat slots two-potturbo into 500 mini
Brabus
Daimler’s Smart series receives a midlife makeover
July 14, 2010 Page 22Green issues in the auto world
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By MARTON PETTENDYBUDDING Taiwanese car-maker Luxgen
has launched what it claims is the world’s
fi rst seven-passenger electric vehicle, the
MPV EV+.
First seen in concept form in March, after
Luxgen’s initial excursion outside Taiwan
to the 10th Dubai motor show in late
December when the upcoming Luxgen7
SUV was also unveiled, the all-electric
luxury people-mover is unlikely to be seen
on Australian roads.
A spokesman for Luxgen told GoAuto the
two-year-old vehicle brand is yet to formulate
a launch plan for Australia, with initial targets
outside mainland South East Asia including
the Middle East, China and Russia.
Based on the emerging Asian brand’s
fi rst self-designed model, the Luxgen7
MPV, the EV version’s fl oor-mounted
lithium-ion battery pack is said to offer a
zero-emissions driving range of more than
300km – much more than most all-electric
vehicles – albeit at a constant 40km/h.
Other noteworthy statistics include
claimed 0-100km/h acceleration in a
respectable 8.6 seconds and a top speed
of 145km/h.
No fresh details have been announced for
the plug-in seven-seater, two fresh images
of which have now been issued, but Luxgen
says the MPV EV+ delivers outstanding
and unparalleled EV performance and is
now ready for mass production.
“While the majority of vehicles worldwide
are still consuming none-renewable fossil
fuel, Luxgen, which started the research and
development of electric vehicle technology
years in advance, has launched the world’s
fi rst seven-passenger EV,” the company said.
“EV could be seen as the only option that
generates no carbon emissions and delivers
eco-friendly clean power when comparing
with other fuel technologies such as LPG
and hybrid power.
“Drastic climate changes are largely
the result of industrial activities and
have rapidly become the biggest threat to
humanity. However, the full impact has not
been fully grasped by the policy-makers
and the general public.
“To take initiative in corporate social
responsibility and further accomplishing
the prospect of environmental protection,
Luxgen offers a perfect choice for those
visionaries with intention to contribute their
part in protecting the environment.”
FULL STORY: CLICK HERE
Luxgen launches electric seven-seat people-mover, but Australia not in frame
Taiwan’s MPV EVTaiwan’s MPV EV
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Mercedes-AMG uncovers SLS E-Cell prototype ahead of 2013 series productionContinued from page 14
THE market for mainstream mid-size three-door 4WDs is not large, as long-wheelbase wagons have long curried favour as the default family wagon. The Toyota Prado three-door presents a familiar if curtailed silhouette, but the new abbreviated version of the Toyota mid-size 4WD isn’t going to sell in anything like the numbers of its fi ve-door sibling. Toyota knows this, hoping the three-door ticks along with just suffi cient sales to justify importing it. Is the Prado three-door good enough in its own right to keep its place in the local Toyota line-up?
FULL STORY: CLICK HERE
BBMW X5
Find out why it works for Neville.Call us on 1300 728 800
“Our results continue to improve due to thequality leads generated by carsales.”
Neville Barton - Southgate Holden, SA.
HAPPY ANNIVERSARYFORD’S Falcon hit the big ‘Five-Oh’ two
weeks ago and now Australians have been
offered generous incentives to join its 50th
birthday party.
Huge savings of more than $5000 – on top
of driveaway prices for all models – have
been announced for the six 50th Anniversary
models that will begin rolling into Ford
dealerships nationwide from late this week.
Factoring in on-road costs and an array
of extra standard equipment, Ford claims
the collectible 50th Anniversary Falcon
range will add between $9516 and $12,199
of extra value for buyers.
The XR50 sedan which opens the 50th
Anniversary range starts from just $36,950
driveaway, including all statutory and
dealer delivery costs.
HOLDEN UTE RECALLGM HOLDEN has recalled 34,432 current-
model VE Holden Utes to fi x tailgates that
can be jarred open if hit from the inside
with suffi cient force by an unsecured load.
In the biggest recall by any manufacturer in
Australia this year, Holden is writing to owners
of all of its Commodore-based workhorses
built since the model was launched in October
2007, asking them to return their vehicle to their
Holden dealer to have the tailgate latch fi xed.
Holden says the “precautionary” recall
follows recent incidents involving two
customer vehicles.
Holden warranty engineering, customer
satisfaction and quality director Craig
Porritt said the likelihood of a tailgate
becoming unlatched was low.
“But we will always err on the side of
caution and administer a recall to ensure
customer satisfaction and safety,” he said.
“Until the fi x can be made to each vehicle,
we ask our customers to continue to secure
loose items in the cargo tray as recommended
in the owner’s manual and use a Holden
tonneau cover where possible to prevent the
condition from occurring.”
MORE SAFETY RECALLS: HONDA CIVIC SEDAN MERC SPRINTER, SSANGYONG ACTYON