AutoSpeed - Performance News

New Mazda MX-5

Mazda has added ten percent more power and torque, another gear, and ABS brakes to the world's most successful sports car, the two seat MX-5.

Its 1.8 litre DOHC four cylinder engine now offers Sequential Valve Timing (S-VT) which lifts power output from 106kW at 6500 rpm to 113kW at 7000 rpm and torque from 165Nm at 4500 rpm to 181Nm at 5000 rpm. The increased engine performance is now transmitted through a standard six-speed gearbox. New pattern sixteen inch lightweight alloy road wheels with flat flanges, 205/45R16 tyres, an Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) and 15mm larger brake rotors complete the engineering upgrade.

Externally, Mazda has retained the elegant and flowing body lines of the second generation model. Minor changes have been made to the dominant 'mouth' which now incorporates Mazda's distinctive five-point front styling element and is positioned below slimmer headlamps which incorporate multi reflector high beam and projector low beam lamps. This opening is also flanked by fog lamps which are incorporated into the air dam, while at the rear the distinctive tail lamp/reflector/turn lamp clusters have also been redesigned to give the turn/flasher compartment a transparent look. The sound system now incorporates a single disc CD player while the centre console has been redesigned to store 6 CD's and provide two easy-to-use cup holders. Keyless entry for doors and boot lid with two 'remotes' is now standard on the model.

The engineers have also achieved additional body strength, improving torsional rigidity by 22 percent and bending rigidity by 16 percent to provide more 'solid' handling, a smoother ride, and an overall higher-quality driving experience. The car also has additional reinforcements including newly added truss members for substantially increased rigidity, improved body frame and cross members as well as an under-bonnet brace bar between the suspension towers. The double wishbone suspension now features a new Bilstein damper which has additional valves for controlling suspension rebound. This is the first time these dampers, which contribute to improved driving dynamics, have been offered on a Japanese made vehicle.

Mazda's newly developed S-VT variable valve timing system enables the timing of the intake valves to be continuously altered. As a result, output and torque are enhanced, while fuel consumption, carbon-dioxide and nitrogen-oxide emissions are minimised.

The key components of the system are:

A hydraulic vane-type actuator that continuously alters the intake valve timing and phase in relation to the crank angle.
A computer which calculates the optimum intake valve timing
An oil control valve (OCV) which controls the oil pressure in accordance with information from the computer.

The new system offers specific benefits in three key areas of engine operation:

High load, low speed: The intake valves close relatively early this minimising the reverse flow of intake air and maximising charge efficiency. Torque in the low and mid ranges is improved as a result.

High load, high speed:The intake valves close relatively late maximising the inertia ram-charging effect and improving output.

Moderate load: The intake valves open relatively early thus increasing the extent of valve overlap. As a result the internal exhaust gas recirculation increases and pumping losses decrease, yielding a reduction in fuel consumption and carbon-dioxide emissions. The internal exhaust gas recirculation has the additional effect of causing the reintroduction of inert gases into the cylinders and this reduces the combustion temperature and lowers exhaust emissions.

Engine bracket support rigidity was also improved by increasing the number of support points from three to four and further improving the rigidity of the engine frame mounting, while a reduction in noise radiation from the engine was achieved through an increase in cylinder head and head cover rigidity.

New Impreza

Adopting an entirely new platform, the 2001 Impreza has two distinctive body styles. Performance is refined, offering wider torque spread and enhanced throttle response. There's also reduced cabin noise, vibration and harshness (NVH), new designs for both sedan and hatch; and increased cabin space. The wide-body sedan features flared guards, while the hatch's bold lines and extended cabin underline its recreational and practical influences. Body rigidity has been vastly improved and Subaru engineers are confident the new Impreza will easily surpass international safety standards.

All models now get cruise control, ABS anti-lock brakes, four-wheel disc brakes, dual front SRS airbags, remote central locking integrated with hazard lights for visual recognition, Super Seat Lifter height adjustable driver's seat, AM/FM radio with CD, variable intermittent windscreen wiper control, trip meters and metallic finish centre console and side air vents. All models get distinctive round cluster headlights, integrating high and low beam, parking lights and indicator functions in a single unit.

They also have new design tail light combinations, with different units to distinguish Impreza sedans and hatches. Front and rear fog lights are standard too, along with immobiliser. Impreza hatches all get cargo security blinds and distinctive rear spoilers, while the Impreza RX and WRX sedan and hatch get sports spoilers unique to these models. As with the entire Subaru range, All-Wheel Drive is a standard feature.

The 2001 Impreza is built on an entirely new platform with significant body differences between sedan and hatch. All Imprezas feature an additional front lower hydroform (story on hydroforming coming soon in AutoSpeed - Ed) sub-frame. This produces improved crash performance and also increases torsional rigidity. B-pillars and side sills are reinforced. The sills are now flush-fitting for reduced NVH. The B-pillars are formed using an innovative manufacturing process where two different thicknesses of metal are welded together, producing an ultra-strong laminate-type effect. The structure includes a reinforcement bar under the rear seat, for improved protection in side impacts. Improved dual side intrusion bars are fitted in the front doors. The new design minimizes passenger injury in side collisions. Cruise control is now available across the Impreza range, including for the first time, Impreza WRX. A new compact stepper motor cruise control activator, which does not rely on a vacuum system, is located in the engine bay. All naturally aspirated manual transmission Impreza hatches have dual range, for extra off-road performance.

Across the Impreza range, a variety of suspension innovations have improved steering control and stability on both rough and smooth surfaces. Steering feedback is also enhanced, while NVH is reduced. The all-round MacPherson strut-type suspension has been retained, with the following refinements:

The rear shock absorber struts are better isolated from the body.
Re-evaluation of suspension geometry has improved stability on both straights and turns.
Aluminium L-shaped lower arms are used in the Impreza WRX sedan to reduce unsprung weight.
The roll angle has been reduced due to the recalibration of suspension damping. This improves stability during lane changing, avoidance manoeuvres and turns. It also benefits the car's attitude during acceleration and braking.
Rear suspension geometry raises the roll centre by 33 mm, for improved stability and handling.
The widened tread of Impreza sedan helps reduce body roll. Flared guards in the sedan serve the practical purpose of allowing more room for the widened tread, which is 20 mm greater than the hatch.
The new sub-frame featured on all Imprezas, together with stronger cross- members and connection points, enhances direct control, and reduces engine and road noise. Optimised bushing performance has also reduced vibration, noise and braking shudder, while increasing rigidity.

While emissions have been reduced, this has not affected power output in either normally aspirated or turbocharged engines.

In the turbocharged engine, the low-to-mid speed range is improved, producing increased torque at lower revolutions, resulting in an overall flatter torque curve. Improved responsiveness in Impreza WRX has also been achieved by reducing the time between depressing the accelerator and engine response. In line with tough new emission regulations, all Impreza engines meet the benchmark STEP3 European standard and produce emissions 25 per cent less than the strict 2000 Japanese standard.

In the Impreza WRX, the new engine features producing reduced emission and greater fuel efficiency include a pre-catalytic converter between the exhaust port and the turbocharger, and a bigger intercooler. Other enhancements include a 4.5 per cent improvement in oil cooler performance and 14.0 per cent improvement in radiator efficiency. The cylinder head intake ports have been changed for greater efficiency and the addition of Tumble Generator Valves (TGV) in combination with these intake ports, creates straight tumble flow, reducing start-up emission. At higher loads, the valve opening allows for an increase in airflow.

Intercooler width is increased 11 per cent, the core area is up 14 per cent and the "core area ratio" (? - Ed) improved from 1.0 to 1.17. The intercooler angle, in conjunction with the bonnet scoop design, provides for increased airflow through the intercooler, producing increased efficiency. The turbocharger's wheels are larger, up from 41.2/47.0 mm to 45.6/52.0mm. The wastegate port is also 2mm larger, at 27mm, representing a 16 per cent increase in size, for more responsive boost control. The WRX air intake is now positioned above the grille and Subaru engineers have achieved improved intake efficiency and reduced intake noise.

In addition to the emission benefits of TGV, the engine now has injectors with 12 spray ports instead of the previous four. This improves air/fuel mixing, which produces better fuel burn efficiency. A pre-catalyst has been added before the turbocharger stage, and an additional rear catalyst. The front catalyst has also been refined. An Air Fuel Ratio sensor that detects changes in fuel mixture, complements the oxygen sensor. On the Impreza WRX, a power steering oil cooler maintains the viscosity of power steering fluid for more stable operation. In the WRX the power steering pump includes a load pressure-sensitive valve for added steering precision.

Ford Multimedia Now!

"Kids have everything these days" - well they do now with the introduction of 'REX' - Ford Australia's new in-car multi-media entertainment system. REX (Rear Entertainment Xtreme) is a fully integrated system that offers a choice of a Nintendo games deck, video player or DVD. The system is linked to a rear-facing colour screen, located between the front seats and operated from a fully-integrated control panel.

The adjustable 17cm 'Thin Film Transistor' colour screen has been treated with an antiglare coating. Brightness, colour and contrast are adjusted via the central control panel. The Nintendo games deck is mounted on the transmission tunnel in front of the rear seat and can be removed easily to guard against theft. The DVD player is boot-mounted and comes complete with a 'take home kit' for use with the family television. The unit features 'anti-skip' technology to ensure high quality output during travel over rough surfaces. The multi-system video module (NTSC and PAL) is also boot mounted and has video camera plug-in ports to allow the user to view or transfer home videos. REX's sound system is integrated into the vehicle's audio system. The audio output can be switched to cordless headphones, allowing other occupants to listen to the driver's radio or CD selection. A REX unit with the Nintendo games deck and video player will retail for $1995, while the DVD player costs an additional $800.

(Note - REX can only be fitted to AU/AUII Falcon sedans. Other models in the Ford line-up are being assessed for REX compatibility.)

New TV Technology for Adelaide Le Mans

Motor racing fans tuning in to Le Mans Adelaide around the world are set to witness the use of a revolutionary new camera system which will bring viewers closer to the action than ever before. Navicam, the synchronized camera system created by Admirantys, will be utilised during the Adelaide telecast, marking the launch of the patented Navicam system and the first time it will be used in the telecast of a major motorsports event.

While technologically advanced, the Navicam solution is in principle very simple. Selected cars competing in the race will be fitted with a small transponder, which emits a tracking signal to a GPS satellite. The tracking signal activates a computer-controlled camera at the racetrack. The system can zoom in on a driver's eyeballs in perfect focus from more than a kilometre away and keep the image in the exact centre of the screen - an impossible task for a human cameraman.

"The software system provides a computer interface to robotize the camera, typically for filming sports events," said Director of Research and Development, Karl Osen. "It uses "sensor fusion", whereby it combines the information from several positioning technologies, including GPS (Global Positioning System) and IMS (Inertial Motion Sensors) in its most sophisticated applications. The type of sensors are selected in relation to the circumstances of the shoot. When possible, both targets and camera platforms are equipped with a Navicam transponder, which continuously transmit their position data to the control console."

The Navicam robot can follow two cars through a series of corners, keeping one on left and other on right corner of the screen. A cameraman would have to keep a wide margin for error and the cars would probably appear about half the size. It can follow one car along the straight, keeping its size on the screen constant, allowing the viewer time to study technical details, the driver's movements, etc. It can pan through very high speed sections, viewing the car from the side, with the background flashing by, giving a much more dramatic feel of the speed. The system can also zoom on car A, and then zoom out to see cars A and B, then zoom in quickly on B. Thus, giving the viewer a feel for their position in relation to each other.

Le Mans Adelaide will be staged on the streets of Adelaide from December 29-31. The event will form the final round of the 2000 Le Mans Series.

Mustang Stamp

The enduring appeal of Mustang has even been recognised by the U.S. Postal Service, which last year released a 33-cent stamp featuring the 1964 Mustang. The stamp is one of 15 saluting the 1960s as part of a special "Celebrate the Century" program from the US Postal Service.

The "Celebrate The Century" commemorative stamp and education program honours some of the most significant people, places, events and trends of each decade of the passing century. In cooperation with the U.S. Department of Education and 12 leading education associations, the Postal Service has developed a curriculum taking students on a field trip through the past 100 years of American history. Stamp subjects were chosen by public ballot for the contribution each had made to a specific category in a specific decade. Areas covered were People and Events, Science and Technology, Lifestyle, Art and Entertainment and Sports.

The stamp is available, along with the other 1960s stamps, online at www.stampsonline.com

Toyota Launches New MR2

Toyota has launched an all-new mid-engined sports car, its first designed from the outset as an open-top car. At $44,990, the MR2 Spyder convertible is 6.1 percent less expensive than the hardtop model it replaces and 21.6 percent beneath the previous premium model.

The new Toyota's use of an infinitely variable valve timing engine and sequential manual transmission are at the leading edge of the under-$50,000 sports car category. The MR2 Spyder is also the first Toyota with sequential-shift manual transmission.

It has improved handling, performance, safety and economy compared with the superseded MR2 coupe. Despite a larger footprint on the road, weight is a massive 231kg lighter than the previous model. The MR2 Spyder has an all-alloy 1.8-litre VVTi-equipped Twin Cam Multi-valve engine which delivers 103kW of power at 6400rpm and 170Nm of torque at 4400rpm.

Power-to-weight ratio is 106kW/tonne.

The new engine is matched to a five-speed manual transmission with sequential shift. Gears can be shifted using either a short-throw gear lever or E-shift buttons on the steering wheel. The clutch operation is automated, for greater ease of use.

The steering system is Toyota's unique electro-hydraulic power steering, for optimum response and minimum load on the engine.

Interior features include 3-in-1 audio system with 6-CD in-dash multi-changer and four speakers. The interior styling cues are retro/sports, with a three-dial instrument cluster and a free- rack system to mount the audio system. The new MR2 has an easy to use manual convertible top, with a glass rear window, to optimise rear vision and resist UV degradation. The driver can open or close the convertible top in less than 60 seconds. MR2's soft top is a one-hand, two-clip construction and its electric side windows fit perfectly with the hood. With the hood down and the windows up, it's possible to conduct a normal conversation inside the cockpit even at high speed.

Vectra 2.6 V6

Due to appear on showroom floors in early November, the 2001 editions of the JS Series II Holden Vectra sedan and hatch now offer buyers the choice of a new 2.6 litre ECOTEC V6 engine (CD models) or the 2.2 litre ECOTEC 4 engine, in either body style. Depending on preference, both engines can be teamed with a close-ratio 5-speed Getrag manual transmission or a 4-speed electronic control automatic.

The new 2.6 litre quad cam, 24 valve ECOTEC V6 engine offers more operating refinement, better driveability and considerably reduced exhaust emissions. Compared with the 2.5 litre V6 engine it replaces, peak power is unchanged at 125kW at 5800 rpm, but a 20Nm torque improvement - 250Nm peak torque at 3600 rpm - delivers the increased 'grunt' across the low to mid-engine operating range that Australian drivers prefer.

V6-powered Holden Vectras are equipped with 'drive by wire' electronic throttle control, which eliminates throttle and cruise control cables. An electrical signal is transferred from the accelerator, via the engine's electronic control unit, to the air inlet throttle mechanism. The system enhances driveability by allowing more precise control of throttle movements, which in turn lowers exhaust emissions and offers reliability gains through the minimisation of mechanical wear.

A high-tech CANbus networking system facilitates simpler, more efficient communication between major vehicle systems: the engine ECU, automatic transmission TCU and ABS/traction control modules. Multiple signals and data from each are transmitted over one high-speed network for faster system response and increased reliability. The 2.6 ECOTEC V6 also features a 'coil over plug' ignition system for more efficient and direct-acting spark control, revised pistons and a close-coupled catalytic converter that reaches operating temperature more rapidly.

Six Cylinder Outback

Subaru has achieved a remarkable engineering feat, producing a six-cylinder engine 34 per cent more powerful than its four-cylinder stablemate - yet only 20 mm longer. The horizontally opposed Boxer engine is the heart of the new range-topping Outback H6. The Outback H6 develops 154kW at 6,000 rpm and 282Nm of torque at 4,400 rpm. The Outback H6 is distinguished from its four-cylinder stablemates by different badging, new-design 16-inch alloy wheels and a titanium-coloured front grill. A new colour unique to Outback H6 is pearl white, which also carries over to protective moulds, wheel arches and bumpers. All other Outback H6 models have either warm or cool grey opal moulds, arches and bumpers.

The engine has three catalytic converters, one in each of the left and right exhaust manifolds and one in the mixing chamber, to produce emissions that meet the world's strictest emission standard, Europe's benchmark STEP3. E-OBD monitors the operation of the front catalytic converters.

Safety features of the car include strengthened B-pillars and a beam in the front bumper for high collision performance during side and offset impacts. There are dual front SRS airbags. Front brake discs have been enlarged from 288 mm diameter to 292 mm diameter for more powerful braking. There are three child restraint anchorage points in the back. Rear seatbelts feature automatic emergency locking retractors (A/ELR) which, when fully extended, ratchet back to hold child seats safely in position. The ratchet mechanism is released when the seatbelt is fully retracted. As with the entire Subaru range, All-Wheel Drive is a standard feature.

The Outback H6 also features Subaru's leading edge Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), an advanced safety system only recently introduced to Australia in the Liberty Heritage wagon. At the heart of VDC is an electronic control unit (ECU). It uses information from sensors tracking wheel speed, steering position, front/back and lateral (sideways) G force, and yaw rate to monitor forces that could destabilize vehicle running. VDC computes and compares the driving of the car with the running conditions - including degree of understeer or oversteer. The ECU comprises a 16-bit microprocessor. It computes in 20 milliseconds and, if necessary, reacts in 200-400 milliseconds. In extreme situations, such as when swerving, sideslipping or entering a spin, VDC activates to control each wheel individually, via braking, engine output, and the All-Wheel Drive system. An indicator light flashes on the instrument panel to alert the driver to VDC's operation. In cases of extreme oversteer, VDC activates, applying brakes to the front and rear outside turning wheels, producing yaw - a force that opposes the oversteering tendency. With understeer, VDC applies brakes to the inside rear wheels to counteract the effect. Both the VDC and ABS Anti-Lock Braking systems are controlled from the one digital ECU.

The Outback H6 is powered by Subaru's newest horizontally opposed Boxer engine, the six-cylinder EZ3O, linked to a four-speed electronic automatic transmission. The low emission 3.0 litre EZ3O offers all the traditional benefits of Subaru horizontally opposed engines, including low centre of gravity and compactness, and is just 20 mm longer and approximately 40 kg heavier than Subaru's four cylinder 2.5 litre engines. This has been achieved by reducing cylinder diameter and the distance between cylinders. Other innovations include camshaft drive by dual chains, rather than toothed belt. Unlike the standard toothed belt system, extremely durable chains do not require replacement at 100,000km intervals. A single multi-ribbed serpentine belt drives the alternator, power steering pump and air conditioning compressor. It has an automatic tensioner to also improve serviceability.

The variable intake system enables efficient intake in all speed ranges, resulting in high torque output throughout the engine speed range. Assisting this is the dual stage exhaust. The intake ports (straight tumble ports) promote combustion by increasing air/fuel mixing to optimise efficiency. Air assist injectors are used to further enhance fuel injection, by atomizing the fuel more effectively before it passes into the combustion chamber. The induction control valve provides two intake characteristics: at heavy loads below 3,600 rpm, the valve remains closed to create separate intake runners, helping to boost low end and mid-range power. This is achieved by the increase in intake airspeed, creating a ram effect. At heavy load and high engine speed, above approximately 3,600 rpm, the valve opens, reducing airflow resistance. This creates a "scavenging" effect, allowing each cylinder to catch high-pressure waves of intake air bouncing off the opposite side of the manifold.

A mechanical valve in the rear muffler opens at higher engine loads, when exhaust pressure reaches about 2.2 psi. The increased exhaust volume in these conditions bypasses a section of the muffler. The reduction of exhaust backpressure enhances power at higher speeds. Muffler valve operation does not affect the noise level.

Overall power unit rigidity is improved. The crankshaft is supported in seven main bearings and the cylinder block and transmission case are attached with 11 bolts (compared to eight on the four-cylinder). It produces 34 per cent more power and 27 per cent more torque than the 2.5 litre four-cylinder engine that powers the Outback and Outback Limited. The engine layout allows an alternating cylinder firing order that reduces inertia, further benefitting the inherent balance of the horizontally opposed engine. Low engine noise levels have been achieved by using upper and lower engine covers and aluminium die cast chain and cam covers.

The all-new EZ3O design has no common components with any current Subaru powerplant. An innovative feature is the separate "oil pan upper," a casting that holds the oil and water pump assemblies, oil filter and cooler. The new engine block structure eliminates the need for a separate coolant pipe casting. It is only the second six-cylinder engine to be offered by Subaru in Australia. Previously, the 3.3 litre EG33 powered the Subaru SVX. Production ended in December 1996.

The engine control system features sequential fuel injection for a high level of accuracy in the fuel metering process, contributing to low emissions with high power output. An air/fuel ratio feedback and learning system accurately monitors fuel mixture after combustion, via dual A/F sensors. The engine computer tracks the air/fuel ratio and makes constant mixture adjustments to achieve lowest possible emissions. The direct ignition system uses an individual ignition coil for each cylinder, eliminating the need for a distributor and sparkplug wires. Dual knock sensors allow the engine computer to finely adjust ignition timing in response to combustion noise feedback. Maximum burning efficiency is achieved irrespective of fuel octane rating. The best efficiency is achieved through use of 95+ RON fuel. This allows the maximum possible ignition angle to be used.

Engine type	Horizontally opposed six-cylinder 4 cam DOHC 24- valve Variable Intake System
Bore x stroke	89.2 x 80.0 mm
Bore pitch	98.4 mm
Engine displacement	2999 cc
Compression ratio	10.7:1
Maximum power	154 kW/6,000 rpm
Maximum torque	282 Nm/4,400 rpm
Fuel system	Electronic Gasoline Injection (EGI) Electronically Controlled Multi-port Fuel Injection
Fuel type	Unleaded Premium (95 RON minimum)

800 is now Millenia

Mazda Australia has opted for a new name for its Miller Cycle engine powered flagship saloon which will now be known as the Millenia. As well there is a bold new face, larger and newly styled wheels, refined tail treatment, a revised interior and a host of engineering improvements to herald this 'new Millenia.' Mazda's distinctive five point 'family' grille has been positioned between two sets of integrated lamp clusters which incorporate headlights and turning indicators. Fog lamps sit under the redesigned front bumper in the air dam. Behind the new grille is the 2.3 litre V6 DOHC Miller cycle engine which is fitted with a Lysholm Compressor and which drives the front wheels. This powerplant produces maximum power of 148.5 kW at 5500 rpm and 282.3 Nm of torque at 4000 rpm.

The new Millenia incorporates improvements to its suspension, steering system, body, and brakes which are designed to achieve increased driving, cornering, and braking performance as well as improvement to ride and comfort. Sixteen inch alloy road wheels are now standard and feature a bold new design. Each of the four wheels turns at the command of Mazda's unique electronic four wheel (4WS) steering system to provide crisp and precise driver control. The vehicle's brake rotors are also greater in diameter which together with higher performance pads improve the stopping power of the four ventilated-disc ABS system as well as providing a lighter pedal feel and shorter stroke.

Internally the vehicle is extensively freshened with two-tone colour treatment of doors and leather wrapped steering wheel. The leather-trimmed seats - power operated in the front - feature the lighter of the two shades resulting a more 'spacious' look and feel. In the dashboard a new and technologically advanced 'Optitron' instrument set is positioned in the main binnacle and illuminates when the ignition circuit is opened to display the speedo, tachometer and minor gauges.

Set into the centre console is a powerful new Bose sound system which incoporates an 'in dash' changer for 6 CD's. This system is adjacent to the controls for the fully automatic climate system which now includes a special micro air filter.

Illumination of the audio system, door locks, and other items is now a refined white hue which provides both excellent legibility and a luxurious, high-grade look. The lettering on controls of systems such as the climate control system has been enlarged for improved legibility. The driver and front passenger also benefit from side airbags in addition to the standard dashboard and steering wheel located SRS restraints.

The body, which is filled in strategic spots with the world's first high-strength resin foam plastic, has been substantially reinforced to achieve higher bending and torsional rigidity. In addition, the links between the four-wheel multi-link suspension and the body have been reinforced, the geometry modified, and the damping force optimised for even more precise and nimble responsiveness. Straight-line stability and rolling feel have been improved and the steering system features more rigid torsion bars and further fine tuning of the power steering mechanism. For the four speed electronic automatic transmission revised 'scheduling' has now produced smoother shifting throughout acceleration.

Quickies

Five months since its European market launch, over 145,000 motorists have opted for the new C-class sedan. Mercedes-Benz is registering an average of 1,400 orders for the new C-class every day. Thanks to the lively demand, the Mercedes-Benz C-class achieved second place in German new car sales in August this year, with a total of around 12,000 new registrations.

Mercedes-Benz has introduced its more powerful supercharged four-cylinder engine to the coupe and cabriolet versions of the successful CLK model range, the SLK roadster and C-class (S202) wagon. The new CLK 200 KOMPRESSOR, SLK 200 KOMPRESSOR, and C 200 KOMPRESSOR wagon models are powered by the 2.0-litre engine with belt-driven supercharger which delivers 120 kW and provides its maximum torque of 230 Newton metres from 2500 right up to 4800 rpm. This is the equivalent of a 21 per cent increase compared with the naturally aspirated engine that it replaces.

Ian Vaughan, Vice-President Product Development, Ford of Australia, will be retiring at the end of the year. Ian, one of the most well-known faces of Ford Australia, joined the company as a graduate trainee in 1964. His contribution to the company has always been as much through his enthusiasm and passion for the product, and for Australian motorsport, as it has through his enduring commitment to the success and future of the Ford Falcon. Ian's passion for the product started early in his career, with the GT's of the '60s. In 1968, Ian campaigned a GT Falcon in the London-Sydney rally, finishing in 3^rd place. He took the same car back for the 25^th anniversary of the event in 1993, this time coming in 2^nd. His commitment to the event, and his quest for success in this field, is indicative of Ian's commitment to the company and the product, particularly the Falcon, through his 36 years with Ford.

Not only has Ferrari won it's first Formula One Drivers Title in 21 years, but family member Maserati has lead the way off the race track with sales in Australia at all time record levels. For the first nine months of 2000, Maserati recorded 47 sales, as compared to 5 for the same period in 1999. This represents an increase of 840%, and is the fastest growing car company in Australia.

Opel has developed an engineering study of the Zafira compact van which runs on compressed natural gas (CNG). The Zafira 1.6 16V CNG is equipped with a monovalent powertrain that has been optimized for natural gas, with a power output of 74 kW (100 hp) and maximum torque of 150 Newton meters at 3800 rpm. The top speed is 172 km/h.

The 2001 Kia Sportage has an aggressive new style with the addition of a full body kit with side sill extensions and flared wheel arches, alloy wheels and full length roof rails all set off by a new two tone colour matched paint finish. Alloy wheels, two tone paint scheme, roof rails, wheel arch flares and side sills added for 2001.

The Kia Carnival, the people mover is now available in a special edition that includes a full leather interior, six way electrically adjustable driver's front seat, alloy wheels, twin airbags, remote central locking and two tone paint work with side panels.

Suzuki Australia has announced a revised version of its Jimny four- wheel-drive with standard dual airbags, air-conditioning and a new engine for just $17,990.Heart of the revised Jimny hardtop is an all new 1.3 litre all-alloy dohc multi- valve four cylinder engine developed with an emphasis on reduced noise and exhaust emission levels.

Vehicle fleet managers have responded strongly to Toyota Australia's offer of a free two-day test-drive of its new Avalon large car. A larger than expected number of managers of medium and large business fleets have taken advantage of the chance to put the Avalon through its paces.

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