Holden’s range of SUV is about to be boosted. After the reception the new Colorado ute received, Holden have turned the light commercial vehicle range upside down by introducing their first serious off-roader in more than a decade, the new Colorado 7 4X4. Developed alongside the hard-working Colorado LCV range, Colorado 7 has been designed to meet the needs a tough and stylish SUV with genuine off-road credentials, hefty 3-tonne towing capacity and a cabin large enough to haul a large family and cargo. Colorado 7 boasts the same muscular styling, powerful new Duramax 2.8-litre turbo diesel engine and impressive off-road capability as its LCV sibling with generous cargo space, full-size seven-seat interior, and a chassis configuration designed specifically for the SUV. Colorado 7 will be available in two specifications, the well-equipped entry level LT and top-spec LTZ.  Recommended retail pricing ranges from $46,990 for the LT and $50,490 for the LTZ. Colorado 7 also shares the safety credentials of its Colorado Crew Cab stable-mate, which is recognised with a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.  Colorado’s robust structural design is backed by a comprehensive array of safety features with Electronic Stability Control, dual front airbags and full-length curtain airbags that extend to the third row on both LT and LTZ variants. One powertrain and transmission combination will be available with the strong-performing 2.8-litre diesel engine and 6-speed automatic transmission standard on both LT and LTZ Colorado 7 models.  The Duramax diesel engine achieves 132 kW of power and 470 Nm of torque. Colorado 7’s advanced diesel technology ensures it returns 9.4 litres per 100 kilometres (ADR 81/02) and 252 grams of CO₂ per kilometre. Colorado 7’s chassis has been engineered independently of the Colorado LCV and is biased towards passenger comfort.  While both models share an independent double wishbone front suspension set up, Colorado 7 features a five-link live axle rear suspension configuration that is unique to the SUV and coil springs front and rear. The Holden SUV’s impressive off-road performance is underpinned by a part time four-wheel drive system with transfer case, with low and high ratio gears, Shift on the Fly and Limited Slip Differential.  Colorado 7’s Descent Control System enhances its already formidable 4X4 capability. Colorado 7’s generous interior dimensions enable a spacious and practical interior layout, with seven seats fitted across the range.  With the second and third row seats folded, Colorado 7 can accommodate as much as 1830 litres of cargo.  Holden Executive Director – Sales and Marketing Philip Brook said Colorado 7 will be an exciting addition to Holden’s growing SUV portfolio, allowing Holden to offer a serious 4X4 alternative in the rapidly expanding SUV market. “The new Colorado 7 is the type of vehicle Australian buyers expect Holden to offer.  We’re really excited to bring a genuine off-roader back into the Holden line-up,” he said. “Colorado 7 is a very impressive all-rounder – it has seven seats, tough on-road presence, a rugged body-on-frame structure, powerful 2.8 litre Duramax diesel powertrain with 6-speed automatic transmission, 3-tonne towing capacity and enough room to haul the family and a heap of gear. “It also has an accomplished and durable four-wheel drive system with Shift on the Fly, Descent Control and Limited Slip Differential, which means it’s capable of tackling the toughest bush tracks. “Colorado 7 also offers peace of mind with a maximum five star ANCAP safety rating, reversing camera, rear parking sensors, driver and front passenger airbags, full length curtain airbags and Electronic Stability Control across the range. “It represents outstanding value with a starting price of $46,990 for the LT, which comes fully loaded with side steps, 16” alloy wheels, front fog lamps, leather wrapped steering wheel, Bluetooth® and six speaker audio system with USB and iPod® connectivity. “With our Captiva range a proven performer in the family SUV sector, Colorado 7 taking up the challenge in the serious four-wheel drive market, and the new Trax SUV arriving next year, Holden will be in its best position yet to take advantage of the SUV sales boom.”

With the trend for city SUVs booming, it can be hard to decide which model to go for. If one is looking for a genuine off-road vehicle however, there are a few criteria for which to look out: All wheel drive Not all SUV’s are 4×4s. This may seem obvious, however is an important point on the tick list for an SUV that is supposed to cope in non-city terrain. Assumptions are not helpful here; there is, for example a new four-wheel-drive version of the Fiat Panda, while the popular Nissan Qashqai SUV does not come with all wheel drive. Some SUVs come with the option of switching between four-wheel and two-wheel drive, so as to accommodate both on- and off-road driving. Large tyres with deep, open treads These will ensure good grip both on- and off-road. Large tyres (i.e. a larger tyre surface area interacting with the ground) will lesson ground pressure, thus preventing the vehicle from sinking into muddy terrain. Deep, open treads are especially important for muddy and uneven or hilly terrain. It is important to look for the tread on tyres as well as their size, as the fashion for city SUVs has led to a trend for tyres that may be large, however do not have good grip at all. Flexible suspension Fairly self-explanatory. The best SUVs for off-roading won’t give drivers or passengers bruises, but also won’t have an overly soft suspension, which may even prove nauseating in rough terrain. Test driving the desired vehicle both on- and off-road to test the suspension is definitely recommended. High vehicle ground clearance Again, this might be an obvious point, however some SUVs have better clearance than others, so it is worth looking out for a vehicle which allows for plenty of space between itself and the ground. This will ensure that the vehicle’s tyres or (or tracks) stay in contact with the ground at all times, thus preventing a potentially dangerous loss of traction. High vehicle ground clearance is also particularly important if the SUV is to be used for rocky terrain, as raised and pointed stones can otherwise do significant damage. Low gearing Low gearing ensures that the driver is able to maximise the available engine power, even while navigating difficult terrain at relatively low speed. This is generally achieved by employing an internal combustion engine either in combination with a very low first gear, or with an additional ‘reduction drive’ gearbox. Torque converters may also be used to further reduce gearing. Most important of all, however, is the test drive. With all off-roading points ticked, this will still be the deciding factor for or against a particular model. Dealers selling genuine off-road vehicles will be amenable even to off-road test drives. Private sellers will also tend to understand the necessity of testing the vehicle in its desired future environment before committing to a purchase.

The new generation All-Wheel Drive Subaru Forester will make its world premiere in Japan early next week, November 13. The premiere will be followed by an Australian launch in quarter one next year. Since its launch in 1997 the Forester has become Subaru’s all-time best-seller in Australia. Forester dominated its market segment for four consecutive years ending 2011. At the end of October 2012, more than 169,000 will have been sold in Australia. “This fourth generation Forester is the most significant we will have launched since the original back in 1997”, said Nick Senior, Managing Director, Subaru Australia. “There is more change – substantial technical change – and innovation, than ever before. “But above all, new Forester is an SUV that won’t be confined to the suburbs. “It’s a vehicle that could have been designed specifically for the Australian lifestyle – it’s all-road, all-conditions, all-seasons and this new one will go further than any previous Forester. “Indeed, it is a smarter, safer, further Forester!”  Fuji Heavy Industries, the maker of Subaru vehicles, has also announced a special website for the Forester (http://www.subaru.jp/countdown/index.html) to raise customer interest before the unveiling.  

Australian’s got to see a new tough off road 4×4 when Holden showed off the Colorado 7 in its first official appearance in Sydney last Thursday at the Australian International Motor Show.  The sale date is set for December this year and the Colorado 7 has all the good bits of an off road vehicle wrapped up in a neat package of a large SUV. The development of the 7 was in tandem with the Colorado ute and they share the same diesel engine. Offering a full-size seven-seat interior, plenty of cargo space and a chassis configuration designed specifically for the SUV. The Colorado 7 will be available in two specifications, the well-appointed entry level LT and top-spec LTZ. Colorado 7 also shares its safety credentials with its Colorado Crew Cab stable-mate which is recognised with a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.  Colorado’s robust structural design is backed by a comprehensive array of safety features with Electronic Stability Control, dual front airbags and full-length curtain airbags that extend to the third row among the list of standard equipment. One power train and transmission combination will be available. The powerful 2.8-litre diesel engine with a 6-speed automatic transmission will be standard on both LT and LTZ Colorado 7 models. The Duramax diesel engine achieves 132 kW power and 470 Nm of torque. The high-tech diesel engine is designed to achieve a balance of load-carrying performance and fuel economy and returns 9.4 litres per 100 kilometres and 252 grams of CO2 per kilometre. The new SUV will be able to tow 3,000kg thanks to the torque and strength and robust driveline. Colorado 7’s chassis has been engineered independently of the Colorado LCV and is biased towards passenger comfort.  While both models share an independent double wishbone front suspension set up, Colorado 7 features a five-link live axle rear suspension configuration that’s unique to the SUV and coil springs front and rear. Colorado 7 has a part time four-wheel drive system with transfer case, with low and high ratio gears, shift on the fly and Limited Slip Differential. Hill Descent Control enhances Colorado 7’s already formidable 4X4 capability. The 7’s interior dimensions enable a spacious and practical layout, with seven seats fitted across the range.  With the second and third row seats folded, Colorado 7 can accommodate as much as 1830 litres of cargo.  Holden Executive Director Sales, Marketing and Aftersales John Elsworth said the Colorado 7 was the first of two new SUVs Holden will introduce in the next 12 months. “The SUV market is booming right now, and the Colorado 7 gives us another solid opportunity to tap into this fast-growing area of the market,” he said. “Colorado 7 is the first true heavy duty off-roader to wear a Holden badge in around 10 years and matches the Colorado for genuine buyer appeal, bold design and advanced diesel engine technology. “Colorado 7 is a true seven-seat, full-size 4X4, which is ideal for customers shopping for an SUV that can take them off the beaten track and still carry the family and haul cargo at the weekend.” “It was designed to stand side-by-side with the Colorado LCV at the Holden dealership, and will complement our Captiva range by offering a serious alternative. “And with gutsy performance from our proven Duramax 2.8 diesel engine, Colorado 7 is set to become the toughest Holden off-roader we’ve sold to date.” Photos by Rudi Khoury

Kia’s all-new Rondo come out from under the covers last week at the opening of the Australian International Motor Show and the new compact MPV is designed for modern families. The Rondo has a choice of four different powertrains, Australian specifications not yet released, and offers seven seats and a broad range of convenience and safety features. The Rondo is the third-generation and is set to attract even more customers to the Kia brand. “The all-new Rondo enhances Kia’s presence in a segment that, in Europe, is one of the most important and competitive new car categories,” said Tony Barlow, Kia Motors Australia’s Chief Operating Officer. “For Australia, the segment is much smaller but in the stylish new Rondo we believe we have a car that will give a viable and attractive option to those who have a need for extra seating but do not wish to drive an SUV. “The new Rondo will have great appeal to families with an active lifestyle who don‘t want to compromise between style and practicality.” Measuring up against the outgoing model the new Kia Rondo is 20mm shorter, 15mm narrower and 40mm lower. Its overall height (1610mm) is the same as the Kia Soul and is one of the lowest in class which gives the model a sporty appearance. Cabin space is generous thanks to the new model’s increased wheelbase (up by 50mm) and cab-forward design which places the base of the A-pillar above the front-wheel centre line. To deliver the maximum carrying versatility expected by MPV customers, the front passenger seat backrest can fold forwards, the second row features three individual sliding/folding seats split 33/33/33 and the third row seats split 50/50 and fold flat into the trunk floor when not required. A comfortable environment for the driver and passengers is assured by either manual or automatic air-conditioning depending on model, rear air vents and optional side window blinds. A special wide-angle mirror in the overhead console allows parents to safely monitor their children while on the move. Storage compartments are conveniently located throughout the new Rondo with under-seat drawers, under-floor storage boxes, a deep centre console cubby hole and large door pockets. Cruise control with a speed limiter will be standard on all models. Available features will include an electric parking brake, smart key with engine start/stop button, a six-speaker audio system with optional amplifier and sub-woofer, puddle lights in the exterior front door handles, and an optional large powered panoramic glass sunroof. In Europe, Rondo will have a choice of four engines. Two diesel and two petrol power units, which offer a broader power spread than the previous model – ranging from 84.6 kW to 130 kW with competitive fuel economy and CO₂ emissions from 118 to 167 g/km for manual models. The 1.7-litre diesel engine is already popular in a variety of Kia vehicles around the world and in new Rondo it will be available in two versions. The low power version generates 84.6 kW maximum power and 260 Nm maximum torque. The high power unit produces 100 kW and 330 Nm. To help optimise the balance between performance and economy, every new Rondo will be fitted with a six-speed transmission. Low first and second gear ratios boost low-speed acceleration, while high top (sixth) gear ratios allow low engine revs during high-speed cruising – reducing cabin noise, enhancing refinement and lowering fuel consumption. In Europe, an all-disc braking system – with 300 mm ventilated front, and 284 mm solid rear discs – is standard on all models. The performance of the braking system is supported by ABS anti-lock, electronic brake force distribution and emergency ‘brake assist’ systems. Braking from 100 kph takes 40.8 metres. The standard wheel and tyre package for Europe is a 16-inch steel wheel with 205/55 R16 low rolling resistance tyres, or similar size alloy wheels. To suit customer preference, new 17-inch silver and 18-inch dark grey alloy wheels with lower-profile tyres are also available. Kia has a strong record for producing vehicles that offer customers high levels of active and passive safety technology. The all-new bodyshell created for the new Rondo incorporates Kia’s latest CAD techniques and structural lessons from recent Kia models. Manufactured with a high percentage of high-strength steel, the new bodyshell will contribute to new Rondo earning an anticipated 5-Star rating in Euro NCAP and ANCAP crash safety tests. Innovative ‘active’ safety features available for the new Rondo in some markets will include LDWS (Lane Departure Warning System) and SPAS (Smart Parking Assist System). LDWS uses a forward-facing video camera to monitor the car’s position in relation to lane markings and triggers a warning in case of unintended lane departures at speeds above 60 kph. SPAS features automatic steering control by ultrasonic sensors and an on-board computer to safely perform parallel parking. The computer ‘takes over’ the task of steering, while the driver remains in control of the accelerator and brake. Safety during parking manoeuvres can be enhanced by using the available rear-view safety camera, while visibility during night-time driving can be enhanced by specifying HID Xenon headlamps. Kia Motors Australia will launch the new Rondo in 2013 with the list of features and engine specifications to be confirmed. Photos by Rudi Khoury