Peugeot packs a punch
Peugeot Australia has launched the eagerly anticipated RCZ R – the most powerful road-going car the brand has ever produced. Despite considerable engineering modifications, the RCZ R (pictured) is priced from just $68,990, $10,000 more than the RCZ. At its heart is a vast range of mechanical upgrades. Inspired by the Peugeot RCZ Racing Cup track car, and riding 10mm lower to the ground, the range-topping sports coupé is powered by a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine with 199kW of power and 330Nm of torque. Weighing just 1280kg, it sprints to 100km/h in just 5.9 seconds – almost two seconds quicker than the RCZ. Now on sale, it’s available in four colours: Moroccan red, perla nera black, mercury grey and opal white.
Audi updates Sportback range
Audi has unveiled its new A7 Sportback, which has new engine configurations, transmissions, headlights, tail-lights and infotainment systems. The most striking changes are to the grille, bumpers, tailpipes and headlights. LED technology is now standard. Pricing and specification of the Sportback range will be announced closer to its Australian launch early next year.
Electric van going postal
Australia Post is trialling Renault’s Electric Kangoo Z.E. (zero emissions) van for 12 months. It’s the first time the fully electric vehicle has been used in Australia. Renault Australia currently supplies Australia Post’s normal delivery vans. The Kangoo Z.E. has been on sale in Europe since late 2011. More than 14,000 have been sold worldwide. The first two Kangoo Z.E. vehicles will be delivered to Australia Post this month.
Lavish Volvo a cut above
Volvo has launched its all-new XC90 SUV, featuring what the Swedish car- maker says is the most luxurious interior designed for its cars. At its heart is the tablet-like touchscreen control console, which operates an all-new, in-car control system that’s virtually button free and represents an entirely new way for drivers to control their car and access internet-based products and services. The interior combines soft leather and wood with handcrafted details such as a crystal gear lever and diamond-cut controls for the start/stop button and volume control.
Limited-edition Fiat on sale
Fiat’s Abarth 595 50th anniversary model, the fastest and most powerful 595 ever, is available in Australia. Only 50 examples of the limited-edition model have been secured for Australia. Prices start at $45,000. Power comes from Fiat’s turbocharged, four-cylinder 1.4-litre T-Jet, which has been boosted to 132kW/250Nm, thanks to an overboost function activated by pressing the ‘sport’ button to adjust electronic control unit mapping and turbocharger boost pressure. It will sound the part too, thanks to the variable back-pressure exhaust designed to improve engine performance. The retro homage to the 1963 Abarth includes three-layer white paintwork, red leather sports seats with white inserts and red stitching, and sunroof.
Taken by two-door Toyota
Toyota’s popular 86 coupé has proven a hit in Australia, with almost one out of every 10 examples built being sold here. The 86 has helped rejuvenate the Toyota’s brand with an influx of young new customers. The last time Toyota sold more than 6700 of a sports model in a year was 1980 (Celica).
