Audi A3 CabrioletGoing soft on convertibles
When everyone else is doing one thing and you do the opposite you’re guaranteed to stand out. That’s indeed the case with Audi’s A3 Cabriolet – it’s a soft-top convertible released when folding steel roofs are all the rage. Not only does the fabric roof give that classic convertible look, it also retracts faster (in about 10 seconds) and takes up less valuable boot space – although you certainly won’t fit the kids’ bikes in there.
The Cabriolet comes in two variants: the Attraction and the Ambition. The Attraction has a 1.8-litre TFSi petrol engine that generates 118kW of power, while the Ambition adds extra muscle with a 2.0-litre engine producing 147kW. The Attraction comes with a twin clutch, self-shifting six-speed gearbox, while the Ambition has the option of a six-speed manual or Audi’s S tronic transmission.
Compared to past A3s – particularly the Sportsbacks, which tended to have a firm-bordering-on-harsh ride – the Cabriolet offers a comfortable drive that’s further accentuated by its 16-inch tyres. Steering and handling are still accurate and the car is well suited to the open road.
With a starting price of $49,990 and optional extras quickly pushing it towards the $60,000 mark, the Cabriolet is undoubtedly a luxury item – but for a convertible built to Audi’s high standards, the cost is not extortionate. –TESTED BY TIM POMROY
Others in class
Ford Focus, VW Eos, Peugeot 308CC
Green vehicle rating
3.5 stars
Crash test results
N/A
Pros
Quietness, improved ride, fast roof retraction
Cons
Pricey
Price
Attraction (base model) $49,990
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Mitsubishi Lancer VRX Sportback’Back by popular demand
Holden didn’t release a new station wagon, it released a Sportwagon. And now Mitsubishi has introduced a Lancer hatchback, except it’s not a hatchback, it’s a Sportback. Whatever you call it, adding one to its popular Lancer range was a good idea – over the past 12 months hatchbacks have outsold sedans in this market segment and the VRX Sportback looks set to sell well for Mitsubishi.
Priced the same as the sedan, the VRX Sportsback starts at $29,790 for the five-speed manual. It boasts one of the gutsiest engines in its class, the 2.4-litre DOHC 16 valve producing 125kW of power and 226Nm of torque. It’s also a smooth and quiet drive.
Those who value performance, however, will opt for the six-speed CVT transmission, which has wheel-mounted paddle shifters and delivers an exhilarating experience in both auto and manual modes. Safety has not been forgotten, either, the Sportsback awarded ANCAP’s five-star rating (although the base ES model requires the optional side curtain air bags to get top marks).
The Sportsback also delivers a comfortable ride – during our test, it soaked up deteriorated back roads and tight corners without flinching. We also tried out the CVT transmission and it did not disappoint, with quick, lag-free gear changes in both driving modes.
With a little more storage space than the sedan and its ability to tackle mid-week traffic congestion and weekend touring with equal aplomb, the Sportsback is set to extend the Lancer’s appeal beyond its traditional boundaries.–TESTED BY SCOTT NARGAR
Others in class
Ford Focus, Toyota Corolla, Mazda 3
Green vehicle rating
4 stars
Crash test results
5 stars
Pros
Comfort and interior space, ride and handling
Cons
More interior noise than sedan, mirrors cause excessive wind noise over 100km/h
Price
ES (man) $20,990
VRX (six-speed CVT) $32,290
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Mitsubishi Ralliart LancerBest of both worlds
With hatchbacks usurping sedans as the body type of choice in the small to mid-size market, Mitsubishi needed something to plug the yawning gap between its VRX Lancer and its race-inspired Evo X. Enter the Ralliart Lancer.
Available as both sedan and hatchback, the aggressive-looking Ralliart will go head to head with other pocket rockets like the Subaru WRX, VW Golf GTI and Ford Focus XR5. In other words, it’s aimed at those who want a sporty car without the staggering price tag attached to many true sports cars.
Boasting the same 2.0-litre turbo-charged engine as the Evo X, the Ralliart Lancer pumps out an impressive 177kW of power and 343Nm of torque. This powerplant is paired with Mitsubishi’s twin-clutch sports shift transmission. There’s no manual option – a decision Mitsubishi made after 80 per cent of Australian Evo-buyers opted for the twin clutch transmission.
In many ways the Ralliart is a hybrid of its Mitsubishi siblings – it has the Evo’s engine, AWD system, differentials, steering wheel and aluminium bonnet, while from the VRX Lancer it gets its 18-inch wheels, interior trim and styling package. But it has its own trademarks as well: front and rear sports bumpers, modified suspension, larger brakes and a dual exhaust.
In short, the Ralliart Lancer is a stylish sports car and at $42,490, it’s sure to give its competitors some serious competition in the sales yards. –TESTED BY SCOTT NARGAR
Others in class
Subaru WRX, VW Golf GTI, Ford Focus XR5
Green vehicle rating
3.5 stars
Crash test results
5 stars
Pros
Power, handling, value for money
Cons
Seats need better support, wind noise at 100km/h +
Price
$42,490
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Tested by Stuart Woodbury
The all new 2008 Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade is feature-packed and looks like a golden eagle ready to strike. It’s such a good bike it’s almost impossible to find fault with it.
One major improvement is weight reduction, and everywhere you look pieces have been minimised so the bike feels as light a 600cc, but it has superb handling and brakes and enough power to make you feel like you’re flying.
As a virtual race bike it’s not really designed for riding through thick city traffic, however the Fireblade easily takes this in its stride. Even if you plan to use it for a daily commute, you’ll have no problems.
Riding in the country was an absolute blast. I travelled up the Putty Road to Singleton and enjoyed all the characteristics, especially the Fireblade’s lightness through the ‘16 kay’ bends.
On the track, I explored everything the Fireblade has to offer – and take it from me, you track day nuts, you should seriously consider this bike.
Pros
Everything!
Cons
Nothing!
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Triumph T100 BonnevilleThe Triumph Bonneville T100 is a true modern day motorcycle based on a classic of yesteryear.
Because of its looks, all sorts of people will want to talk to you about the T100. But if you wish, you can also ride this bike hard and outperform many more fancied bikes. It is a true ‘Street Sleeper’ as they say.
Buying a T100 is a statement about who you are – and it is also a terrific bike to have in the garage for those weekend rides.
Pros
Classic looks, classic motoring, it’s a Street Sleeper
Cons
No fuel injection
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BMW has produced an absolute gem in the R 1200 GS. Not only is it well built, it has a host of optional features. Riding this bike long distances and through heavy city traffic showed it to be one of the most practical on the market.
If you want to ride in absolute comfort and grace or you want to roll with other bikes, the R 1200 GS will not only do this with ease but will suprise much more powerful bikes – as quite a few people found out during my country ride up the Putty Road and down the Old Pacific Highway.
Pros
Build quality, electronic suspension adjustment (ESA), braking power, touring comfort, road holding, engine torque
Cons
Fuel capacity, noisy clutch
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Suzuki V-Strom DL650 ABSWell-suited to Australian conditions, the Suzuki V-Strom DL650 ABS handles touring, commuting or going off road with grace and offers an extremely comfy ride. While some motorcycle enthusiasts’ egos would not let them ride this bike, they would be quite suprised with its all-round capabilities.
It also provides excellent value for money – although you would be wise to spend your spare cash on a new set of tyres and improving the brakes which, despite now having ABS, still underperform.
Pros
All-round abilities, comfort, fuel economy
Cons
Limited colour options, brakes, tyres in wet
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Attention seekers please take note. If you want to stand out in the crowd, get on a lime green Kawasaki ZX-6R.
The 2008 model loves to rev high and be cornered at high speed. When you want to stop the action, a perfect slipper clutch and wave style discs (both front and back) give loads of power and feel, especially from the front.
If you’re looking to get into the Supersport range, the ZX-6R should be at the top of your list.
Pros
Styling and build quality, front brakes, handling at high speed, slipper clutch
Cons
Low range power, fuel injection while engine is cold
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Honda DN-01Given that it was a concept bike not so long ago, the Honda DN-01 makes for an unusual sight on the road.
Comfort is not high on its list of attributes, but the automatic transmission works a treat and is great for people who may have trouble with a clutch. The engine could do with some more power, but the DN-01 is a first and is sure to benefit from future developments.
Pros
Quirky looks, manoeuvrability, automatic transmission, LCD dash
Cons
Comfort, no storage space
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Yamaha has built a pure racing dirt bike in the 2008 WR250FX. With parts borrowed from its race-only brother the YZ250, the WR series really suits those who want to ride or race off road, where you need registration.
Super light, with a powerful engine and great off-road handling, this is a machine for the rider that loves to get down and dirty – which I did. This bike can take a pounding on par with much larger capacity dirt bikes.
Pros
Registerable, pure off-roader, engine torque, user friendly
Cons
Mirrors, no tachometer
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The Triumph Speed Triple is the big mean brother everyone knew as a child. If you try to fight it you’re in trouble, but treat it with respect and you will find this bad boy is actually a great friend that will reward you with absolute riding pleasure.
It’s a real street fighter with tough looks that will cover all your needs from commuting, to touring, to weekend blasts – and it’s a ball of fun on the track.
Pros
Bad boy appeal, power delivery, radial mounted callipers, comfort, handling
Cons
No steering damper, no slipper clutch, slippery footpegs
Click here to view the full report
Open Road e-zine December 2008
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February e-zine 2009
