News

When buying a new car one thing that rarely is thought of is the ongoing maintenance of the chosen vehicle. Especially a luxury car. That is understandable of course as the purchase of a new car is a rare occurrence! Most people don't ever buy new at all. Instead, they buy a used car every time the need arises.

The fortunate thing is that most new vehicles these days have service schedules that are further apart. Some cars, like any BMW, have variable service intervals depending on driving habits. This results in less reasons to book a service. While this is advantageous, the risk is your engine may be working hard with dirty engine oil swishing around. This may not be an issue if the driver only has the car for two or three years. It may become an issue in the long run.

The ideal situation is that every few months or 5000km the oil should be checked. In saying this, we are not only inspecting the cleanliness of the oil. The engine oil level is also critical. While under the bonnet, check the coolant level in the (usually a green liquid).

For those who are intent on owning the car for over 3 years, which is at a stage where most manufacturer warranty usually ends, ensuring that the vehicle is well maintained during the early years is important.
A suggestion is to go to your service department negotiate a price to change your car’s engine oil and filter, while checking other vital fluids, in between the recommended services. For instance if your vehicle has a manufacturer recommended interval of 15000km/12mths between services, it would be wise to change the oil and filter at 7500km or at least every 6 months. Although not mandatory, it certainly adds peace of mind if you decide to not trade your car.

In doing this you will ensure the longevity of the cars vital components, and less risk of costly repairs when the vehicle is out of new car warranty.
Adding to that, in usual cases it will be of benefit when you want a trade in valuation.

So the name of the game is to look after your car to ensure trouble free motoring!

The Peugeot 3008 is now at Peugeot dealers in Sydney! It represents a new and innovative proposition, not only in the Peugeot range but also in today’s automobile market as a whole. Built at Peugeot's Sochaux manufacturing plant, its a unique concept for Peugeot but draws on its many years of experience.

The 3008 strengths are in its modern design with SUV like driving position while still being a pleasure to drive. It has new and original technologies that enable it to fit perfectly in our demanding lifestyles all the while being eco-friendly.

Acclaim Thus Far:

Since its release in Europe in 2009, the Peugeot 3008 has won a number of prestigious awards. The 3008 was named Car-Of-The-Year for 2009 by British publication What Car? Editor Steve Fowler said: ‘(This class of vehicle) will be big news in the next few years with people who want the look and feel of a 4x4, but without the financial and environmental costs. The 3008 fills that brief perfectly – it's got the looks people want, the space they need, it's great to drive, and it's well priced and economical to run'. What Car? Also says: 5 out of 5 stars “The 3008 is practical, spacious, refined and easy to drive. A sumptuous cabin and a cushy ride help to make it even more appealing.”

The 3008 also won the 2009 AUTOREVUE AWARD in Austria.

The prestigious 24th Auto Europa 2010 has just been awarded in Florence to the new Peugeot 3008.

Car Enthusiast UK says:
“There's much to like in the new Peugeot 3008. It's fun to drive, spacious, comfortable, extremely well finished inside and it's likely to be competitively priced and well equipped too.”

Engines & Fuel Economy

One of the main strengths of the 3008 is its fuel efficiency. The engine choices feature the most advanced technologies for both petrol (with the 1.6 litre engines developed with the BMW Group) and diesel engines (1.6 and new 2.0 litre HDi fitted with a diesel particulate emission filter). Fuel consumption on the most fuel efficient version is only 4.9 litres/100 km! There simply isn't many if any vehicles in the market of this versitility with that level of consumption.

The 3008's fuel efficiency was highlighted during the Peugeot Eco Cup held in France. It achieved an amazing average consumption of 3.5 litres /100km.

Another highlight for the future is that from 2011, the 3008 will be the first vehicle in the PSA Peugeot Citroën Group to benefit from HYbrid4 technology. This was unveiled on the Prologue HYbrid4concept car at the last Paris Motor Show. This technology represents a real breakthrough in terms of fuel consumption with a 35% improvement.

Safety

The Peugeot 3008, like all Peugeot cars benefits from the Peugeot's extensive experience and the latest technological advances to offer maximum safety at all levels, and will offer grip control, head up display, distance alert, an electronic parking brake and hill assist.

Primary safety:

- excellent rigidity of the structure,
- high-performance suspension and electronic aids
- benchmark road holding in its category

Secondary safety:

- body structure is generously dimensioned
- controlled deformation of its structure
- restraint systems used

Exterior

The design of the 3008 effectively combines a single-compartment body shape with a forward-positioned front windscreen similar to an SUV. There is a split tailgate, plunging side windows and its raised driving position.

The Peugeot styling genes have evolved to adapt to the vehicle’s generous size, while at the rear the wide sculpted flanks help to give it a strong stance on the road.

Interior

The 3008 has a very commanding yet ergonomic interior. The driver's position has great access to all required controls and functions.

Thanks to its 3-position floor, folding front backrests and remote folding rear seats. The 3008 offers a perfectly flat floor from the tailgate to the front seats.

Multiflex Interior

As in the above example, the 3008 has an interior designed to offer an accessible and intelligent load space adaptable to all leisure/lifestyle activities.

The load space is easily accessible as a result of the split tailgate, making it easy to handle. The split tailgate can be used at any time to assist in the loading of heavy objects or as a seat when required (for example to put on skates, shoes or hiking boots, etc) since it can support a weight of 200 kg spread evenly over its surface.

Three Position Boot Floor

The load area of the 3008 has a unique, patented designed floor with a 3-way height adjustment. This innovation, simple and new to the market, will increase the versatility of the vehicle on a day-to-day basis.

Wheels and Suspension

Unique driving pleasure and off-road ability

One of the major motivations for customers when buying a car is ease of driving as well as enjoyment. This is usually lacking in tall vehicles. To attain this particularly ambitious objective in terms of road holding, driving precision and body control, Peugeot relied firstly on its solid know-how, and then on the already proven suspension and wheel options from the 308.

Structurally, the 3008 manages the considerable feat for a spacious vehicle of offering excellent torsional rigidity.

Designed and produced by Peugeot, the multi-valve hydraulic shock absorbers of the 3008 actively contribute to achieving levels of road holding and comfort unseen in this segment.

Grip Control is an innovative safety proposition consisting of 16’’ Mud and Snow tyres and intelligent traction control system. This feature gives the vehicle an ability to overcome difficult situations where the wheels have little grip.

Anyone looking to buy a Toyota RAV4, Subaru Forester or similar should consider this unique car.

If you have thought about buying a mid-sized sedan or wagon, you are spoiled for choice! One of the most under-rated and best comes from Skoda. After reading the next few paragraphs, and you are looking to buy a car that is of medium size, then you may want to buy a Skoda Octavia. It hasn't happened, though. Whatever the reason, sales have never really amounted to more than a steady trickle.

Now there's a new Octavia on the streets, boasting different drivetrains, massaged styling, an improved cabin and simplified line-up.

The old Elegance and Ambiente model lines are gone, replaced with a choice of three engines for either hatch or wagon variants.

WHAT DO YOU GET?

Here we're testing the $35,790 1.8-litre TSI petrol engine allied to the latest Volkswagen Group seven-speed dual-clutch auto. But the range starts with a $26,990 1.6L petrol manual hatch (Skoda calls it a "liftback") and stretches to $38,290 for the automatic version with a 2.0L turbo-diesel engine.

The tested car gets dual-zone climate control, six-CD audio, auto headlights and wipers and 16-inch alloys on top of the 1.6's already respectable specification. The sporty RS and Scout 4X4 remain unchanged at the top of the range but get an update later this year.

HOW SAFE?

Six airbags, anti-lock brakes and stability control are standard but parking sensors cost more. Given the less than remarkable rear vision, they're probably a good idea.

Skoda is confident the new Octavia's crash safety will rate better than its predecessor's four stars.

WHAT'S INSIDE?

The Octavia's cabin looks much the same as before but the dashboard is new, it is nice to the touch and is better assembled. There's also a different steering wheel, centre console and switchgear exuding a classy, if still somewhat sober, ambience.

Functionally, there's plenty of space up front, loads of spots to stow smaller items and a wide range of steering and seating adjustment. The back seat is less impressive, with acceptable space for taller adults and fewer small-item storage options.

The wagons boot goes from big to positively huge with the back seats folded. You also get bag hooks, 12-volt outlets, luggage tie-downs and a full-size spare.

UNDER THE BONNET
Skoda might be Volkswagen's budget brand but it doesn't miss out on technology.

The 1.8 TSI gets the sane 118kW 1.8- litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine and seven-speed dualclutch auto gearbox as the latest Golf.

The 1.8 TSI is smaller than the 2.0 FSI it replaces but superior in every respect. It's more powerful and has more torque, yet is more economical, with auto versions rating 6.7 litres per 100 kilometres on the official test cycle.

On the road, you'll find a strong supply power on tap from just 1500rpm, with linear delivery right to the redline. It's smooth, refined and used just 7.1L/ 100km on our urban/highway test loop, although preferring premium unleaded.

The seven-speed auto is great on the move, with deliciously sharp shifts and a huge ratio spread but its combination of jerky take-off and too-eager upshift makes it a little awkward in stop-start driving. On hills, progress is noticeably uneven.

ON THE ROAD

Like the old Octavia, this is a solid drive. Turn the well-weighted wheel and the Skoda pretty much just goes where you point it, displaying composure and predictability.

For the most part, the suspension does a good job of cushioning big impacts. However, smaller bumps aren't as well-suppressed and the unrelenting jiggling eventually becomes tiring.

There's plenty of road noise on coarse-chip surfaces and our test car also had plenty of wind noise above the windscreen.

VERDICT

The original Octavia was already good and the new one is that bit better.

The cabin is nicer, the new 1.8 TSI engine is a gem and the simplified line-up should make things easier for potential buyers. However, the Skoda still falls tantalisingly short of brilliant.

It could be quieter and more comfortable, the auto could be better-behaved at times and its presentation while professional - is a little too sober for its own good.

Ultimately, though, these are minor blemishes. If you want a smallish car that's roomy, practical, great to drive and good value, it deserves to be on your shopping list.

AT A GLANCE

HOW MUCH? From $33,490 (man), $35,790 (auto)
ENGINE 1.8-litre turbocharged four-cylinder, 118kW/250Nm, 6.7L/100km,157g CO2/km, FWD
WHAT IT HAS Twin front, side and curtain airbags, stability/traction control, anti-lock brakes, cruise control, trip computer, automatic headlights and wipers, six-CD audio with auxiliary jack, leather-shod multi-function steering wheel, 16-inch alloys
FOR Sprightly performance, excellent economy and dual-clutch auto gearbox, rock-solid road manners, roomy and practical cabin, huge boot, great value.
AGAINST Auto is jerky around town, jiggly ride, average refinement, prefers premium unleaded.

THE COMPETITORS

HOLDEN ASTRA CDX WAGON
From $29,790
Handy boot, capable and refined road manners, plenty of toys, middling performance, flat seats, confusing switchgear, poor cabin storage.
***

MAZDA6 CLASSIC WAGON
From $36,740
Supreme style, slick road manners, roomy and classy cabin, user-friendly boot, quality, value, engine lacks low-rev zest, could be quieter.
****

PEUGEOT 308 XSE TOURING
From $36,190
Can seat seven, cabin is classy and versatile, strong performance, capable road manners, final row only for children, firm ride, mediocre auto, thirst for premium unleaded.

The story of Skoda begins with Laurin and Klement, the two Czech designers who began the Skoda journey way back in 1895. They were originally a pair of bike builders who grew their business before a fire destroyed the factory. In came Skoda Works, the largest industrial enterprise in the country, to the rescue. Since then, one of the oldest car manufacturers in the world is owned by one of the largest, Volkswagen. The quality, efficiency and value would make Laurin and Klement very proud of Skoda today. As one of the fastest growing car companies in Europe, Skoda has built a reputation for quality design, reliability and safety.

People are at the heart of everything Skoda does, and for the past 13 years, Skoda has made the top 5 every year in the JD Power Customer Satisfaction survey. Last year, it reached second place, second only to Lexus. Explaining why 98% of our UK customers are more than happy to recommend Skoda to a friend, and why the UK is calling Skoda their Manufacturer of Happy Drivers.

At Trivett we plan on building on this. The value is unmistakable and if you want to stand out from all the usual cars out there, Skoda is for you. Being part of Volkswagen group, ensures all the best technology and safety are available at prices that show remarkable value.

The dealership is located at our Blacktown site alongside Volkswagen commercial vehicles and Honda. Service facilities are also located on the one site ensuring a quick and easy visit.

* New common rail TDI engines significantly reduce consumption, emissions and costs
* The new front section follows the stylistically sharpened Volkswagen design
* DNA New infotainment and assistance systems optimise comfort and safety
* New ESP generation incorporates hill start as standard

The extensively perfected new edition of the Transporter, Caravelle and Multivan is on the starting grid right now. Referred to as T5 within the company, the range is even more frugal, clean and cultivated in the latest generation, and offers greater active driving enjoyment than ever before. Once again, the Volkswagen Transporter bestsellers from the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles brand are adopting the position of technological leadership in their particular segments.

Updated design

Optically, the three basic versions are now following the new Volkswagen design DNA. The front section of the series bears witness to this even more obvious statement of virtues. Clear, horizontal lines make the series look even better in terms of quality and make a timeless impression.

New, extremely frugal generation of TDI engines

The driveline technology has taken a quantum leap. Background: all turbodiesels (TDI) have been replaced by a completely new generation of Euro 5 engines with the latest common rail injection. In total, there are three new 2.0 l TDI four-cylinder engines with output values of 75 kW, 103 kW and 132 kW. Across the board, they offer significantly greater dynamic torque characteristics and improved acoustics.

The new high-end TDI develops a remarkable maximum torque of 400 Newton metres. Thanks to a newly developed pump, the power-assisted steering works more efficiently. This is because unlike the so-called constant pump of conventional design, the new energy-saving pump delivers hydraulic fluid according to demand, so the quantity delivered is always optimal for aiding steering. And this reduces the power consumption of the steering pump and, consequently, fuel consumption.

High-tech campaign

The new generation of this popular van offers numerous further technological highlights. Take the gearbox, for example: instead of the previous option of an automatic gearbox, the Volkswagen Transporter will now be available with the option of a significantly more efficient dual clutch gearbox (DSG). Take the traction distribution, for example: on request, it is possible to order a new, electronically controlled four-wheel drive system (4MOTION with a fourth generation Haldex clutch) that achieves a further improvement in active safety and makes sure that the Transporter derivatives can keep going off road when necessary. The most powerful 4MOTION version (TDI with 132 kW) will also be available with DSG for the first time.

On the move with uncompromising safety

Furthermore, the safety features have been perfected further by having the latest generation ESP fitted as standard (including hill start), a new hazard flash function for the brake lights (emergency braking warning display), optional assistance systems such as Side Assist (warning of vehicles in the blind spot).

Also, a completely newly developed Servotronic system ensures significantly improved steering precision and is a standard feature of the Multivan Highline.

Comfort at the highest standard in the class What is more, the interior now awaits with new, higher quality instruments and steering wheels, a new generation of radio navigation system, fresh fabrics and seats with an even better ergonomic balance.

With an impressive 60 years of experience behind it, Volkswagen’s famous workhorse – be it the Transporter van/cab chassis or Multivan/Caravelle people-mover – is about as evolved as it can get.

The latest version – the T5 GP series of 2010, itself a facelift of the 2003 fifth-generation Transporter – has hundreds of special details, big and small, that seem as natural and organic as anything Charles Darwin might have observed in nature.

Trial and error has led to this large, boxy body that is easy to get stuff in and out of, thanks to large apertures, and precisely placed grab handles, hooks and tie rings. Doors open and shut with a solid thud, while the room on offer is maximised to be as spacious and practical as possible.

These were our thoughts back when the T4 Transporter lobbed in during 1994, and the same is true today.

But the difference between that previous-generation VW van – as well as the outgoing T5 Series 1 – and the newcomer is that the Germans have completely re-engineered the drivetrain, essentially for the first time since what we used to know as the Kombi (or Combi) swapped its rear-engine/rear-drive layout for today’s front-drive transverse engine configuration in the early 1990s.

In a way then, while the physical changes appear minor at first glance (in fact almost everything forward of the B-pillar is new), you could say that the heart and mind of the T5 – rather than the body – has undergone a significant evolution. So to the driver’s seat we go.

Actually, we should add that we prefer the cleaner look of the earlier T5 (and lament the passing of that model’s front bumper step that allowed for easy cleaning of the vast windscreen), but the GP series is still a handsome brute – as far as vans go anyway … boxy Teutonic charm at its best.

Anyway, the changes to the dash are welcome. While the new fascia does not pretend to be “car like” visually (and works better as a result since everything is angled for maximum ergonomic use), the attention to detail is lovely (better than a Tiguan’s, surprisingly), with high-quality materials, pleasing aesthetics and a real focus on functionality. Well done, VW.

Firm and supportive seats, high-mounted gear lever, a tilt and telescope steering wheel and (on most models) a height-adjustable driver’s pew should help most people find a comfy and commanding position of control to which they can work from.

Speaking of workplaces, VW now fits better brakes, ESC stability control, anti-rollover technology, and the availability of more airbags, to make the T5 models among the safest commercial vehicles you can buy – although whether it betters the five-star Mercedes vans with their latest airbag devices remains to be seen.

Yet it is the turning of the key that reveals the wheels of progress in motion most, since VW has thrown out all the dirty old engines (and most gearboxes) for shiny new items that elevate the T5 to the top of its tree.

And despite having quite different driveability characteristics, only the one, 2.0-litre common-rail direct-injection turbocharged and intercooled twin-cam 16-valve four-cylinder diesel engine is employed in all T5s (for now – TSI petrol units may come in later), in three quite separate guises. This powerplant usurps the ancient 85kW/200Nm 2.0L petrol, 77kW/250Nm 1.9L TDI, and 128kW/400Nm 2.5L five-pot TDI.

Base model first: the 75 TDI uses a 75kW/250Nm unit mated solely to one of the finest shifting five-speed manual gearboxes you will ever likely find in a commercial application. It’s only available in the base Transporter van, is priced to poach people out of HiAces and iLoads, and delivers a muted and smooth surge of forward thrust that will have you thinking that any other engine would be a waste of money, especially when you look up its low consumption and emissions outputs. What a star!

We drove the SWB 75 TDI van two-up with an empty load, and revelled in the keen roadholding, quick steering and responsive brakes. A good ride and tight turning circle are icing on the cake. Only the expected tyre drone booming from within the empty load area betrayed this VW’s van DNA.

Next up is the 103kW/340Nm 103 TDI: in six-speed manual form the lever is not as slick, and it takes some practice getting used to the tightly spaced gate (we went from second to fifth gear several times), but the extra power would certainly come in handy.

Meanwhile, the DSG ‘auto’ – expected to be the T5 bestseller, and at $40,990 it represents excellent and unique value in the van segment) makes for an easy, eager companion. But we did notice some momentary hesitation when instant step-off acceleration was desired, while that old dual-clutch trannie jerkiness bugbear reared its head from time to time. Yet, as an inner-urban workhorse companion, the DSG is still second-to-none in this class, with an on-the-move response to blow all other auto vans away quick smart.

However, for a really, really great blow-away job, you cannot go past the 136 TDI. With 136kW and 400Nm of torque at your disposal, this is the new hot-hatch-for-van-man (and woman) experience. Just tickling the throttle in either gearbox will have the VW streaking forward with stupendous ease. Keep an eye on that speed too, because this current top-spec T5 engine makes for a deceptively fast point-to-point … err Transporter. And the chassis has no problems handling all that twisting action either. What a blast!

So there you have it – the best driving, most refined, and certainly cleanest and greenest VW vans ever offered in Australia.

Factor in the keener pricing, improved safety and higher levels of personalisation thanks to a big increase in luxury option availability, and it is clear to see where all of VW’s six decade hard work developing the series has led to.

This is one daddy cool Kombi!

Caravelle and Multivan:

Of course, the people mover versions of the T5 GP Series – now all long wheelbase – also benefit from all the improvements that the Transporter range receive.

Similarly, the same driveability attributes apply. But it is worth noting that at $5000 less than the old 2.5L TDI with the six-speed auto, the $49,990 Caravelle 2.0 CR TDI DSG represents quite startling value-for-money if it is a people transfer vehicle you need.

All nine seats are adult sized, adjustable in a variety of ways and comfortable for short-haul transportation; and since there are a myriad of vents, handles, storage facilities and opening windows to serve the rear seat occupants, that feeling of being stuck in the back of a delivery van isn’t present either.

Meanwhile, the Multivan builds on the Caravelle with its lounge-like rear seating, available conference table, and long list of other standard and optional features to create a luxury people mover.

Other than a jittery ride for the rearmost occupants who must sit on the back axle, there is little to complain riding in the back of the latest VW buses.

Trivett are proud to represent Volkswagen commercial vehicles. We strongly believe the range of Volkswagen vans, and cab-chassis commercials are some of the best on offer. Whether you are a courier, builder, plumber or market gardener, Volkswagen will have the right commercial vehicle for you. With a great range of petrol or diesel engines, fuel economy is also a strong point for our cars.

Volkswagen is based in Wolfsburg, Lower Saxony, Germany, originally founded in 1937 by the German Labour Front (Deutsche Arbeitsfront).Volkswagen is the original brand within the Volkswagen Group, which includes the following brands: Audi, Bentley Motors, Bugatti Automobiles, Automobili Lamborghini, SEAT, Škoda Auto and heavy goods vehicle manufacturer Scania. In 2009, the Supervisory Board of Volkswagen AG endorsed the creation of an integrated automotive group with Porsche under the leadership of Volkswagen.

Volkswagen means "people's car" in German. Its current tagline or slogan is Das Auto (The Car in English).

In November 2009, Volkswagen and Porsche overtook Toyota to become the world's largest car manufacturing group in terms of production.

The introduction of Peugeot’s most evolved CC yet marks the 75th anniversary of the company’s invention of the Coupé Cabriolet when the 401 Eclipse was launched in 1934.

Peugeot has refined this technology to the point where the new model’s steel roof opens or closes in just 20 seconds.

The striking 308 CC certainly encompases head-turning style, but also arrives bearing a number of notable features and technologies.

The 308 CC is the first Peugeot convertible to offer a diesel engine in Australia. The 2.0-litre HDi FAP engine achieves impressive torque and fuel economy figures, and is coupled with a state-of-the-art 6-speed automatic.

Peugeot’s award-winning 1.6-litre turbo petrol engine is also available with either manual or automatic transmissions.

The side head airbag deployed from within the seat’s headrest is the first ever installed in a production car.

The Airwave system built into the front seats emits warm air around the neck and shoulders of the occupant, making open-top motoring an option even in the colder months.

Safety is paramount in the 308 CC, with numerous features combining to help the car attain a five-star European NCAP safety rating.

The introduction of the 308 CC compliments the highly successful CC and 308 ranges.

Peugeot Automobiles Australia general manager/ director Ken Thomas believes that it is not just the sculpted exterior that will grab the attention of potential customers.

“The car will certainly get people’s attention,” he said.

“It is not only a remarkable car visually, but also to drive.

“The interior is a truly luxurious place to be; it is a place of elegance, efficiency and comfort all rolled into one – this will sway a lot of potential customers.

Mr Thomas believes the new 308 CC offers quite unique value.

“We are confident that the affordability of the 308 CC may surprise many, given its style, quality and the level of standard equipment.

“It certainly offers a lot for the price in this market especially when you consider that it has a EuroNcap five-star safety rating – including side head airbags – ESP and self-deploying rollover bars, rear park assist, and numerous classic design touches standard across the entire range.”

Unveiled to critical acclaim as a concept car at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2007, the RCZ will soon become a production reality.

Peugeot’s stylists and engineers have worked to ensure that the RCZ that will hit Australian roads will be in keeping with the expectations created by the stunning design of the original concept.

The objective behind Peugeot’s sports car is for it to become an exclusive vehicle, full of emotion, aimed at enthusiasts who are particularly discerning with regards to driving enjoyment.

The Peugeot RCZ will be launched in Australia early in the second half of 2010.
Ken Thomas, general manager/ director of Peugeot Australia said the RCZ represents a huge opportunity for the brand.

“The RCZ got a lot of attention when it was unveiled as a concept car,” he said, “and we are confident that the car will receive even more attention on the road.

“Peugeot has definitely maintained the spirit and flair of that original design.
“We will be offering high performance petrol and diesel engines when the car arrives here.

“To say we are excited about the RCZ coming to Australia is an understatement.”

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