Posted by Bob Aldons – Northstar Fiat Alfa

The Alfa Romeo Guilietta is usefully more flexible and enjoyable, with a tastier engine note to boot.

Paul Pottinger road tests and reviews the Alfa Romeo Guilietta 1.4 with specs fuel economy and verdict.

Hard to stand out in a small car these days, what with every second diminutive hatch or sedan in sight being a Mazda3 and almost everything else looking alike. Try, if you can be bothered, picking out a Pulsar or aCruze while walking past a crowded carpark.

Anyone with a few extra bob to drop on their shopping trolley is dropping it on a new Volkswagen Golf. And why wouldn't you? There's nary a choice from this overpopulated segment (of which some 250,000 will sell this year) that isn't utterly dependable, safe, sound and resoundingly dull.
One of the exceptions, a car so marginal as to barely impinge upon the collective consciousness, is Alfa Romeo's Guilietta. For a hatch, a vehicle type defined by practicality, it's something of a perverse pleasure. The entry level 1.4-litre Gulietta has been re-labelled as the Distinctive. That it is.

VALUE
Despite a drastic and overdue price slice, the Alfa Romeo is still a bit overpriced at a little under $30,000 next to the new Golf. It's another $2000 to get an auto (one of the twin-clutch variety), which is standard on all Golfs bar the very base model. And that is not so very base despite starting about $6000 under the Alfa.

Moreover, VW brings capped price servicing and a big dealer network. In terms of equipment, the Alfa hasn't much to boast of. And the resale will eviscerate you.

Yet if you're straying in the direction of these few and far between showrooms, it's reasonable to assume you're less interested in litres per 100km than the way in which you get to 100km/h. While those who style themselves as Alfisti tend to be focussed firmly on the past, here's a contemporary car worthy of Alfa's hallowed heritage. Put what price you will on that.

TECHNOLOGY
Anyone who still somehow doubts small turbo charged engines are not where it's at -- that only capacity counts -- will be dragged into this decade by the Guilietta's 1.4 MultiAir four.
The International Engine of 2010 combines turbocharging with direct fuel injection and a system that opens the engine's valves to the optimum. The result is an instantly tappable wave of torque, almost all of which occurs at barely above idle.

That can be regulated by the DNA switch, which in Dynamic mode produces yet more torque. In addition to beefing up the steering feel, it's this setting you'll engage at almost all times. Normal mode is that in which the diesel-challenging fuel consumption figure was obtained, but then you're not in the market for a Prius are you?

All this makes the bigger capacity but free-breathing petrol plants most Japanese carmakers persist with look like the relics they are. If the cost is paid in premium unleaded, the Alfa's breadth of talent is worth every cent. Standard is the Q2 electronic differential which vectors the power to the front wheel with the most traction. Like that clever little engine, it works so seamlessly you're scarcely aware of it.

DESIGN
You won't find many functional objects with so much form. The trad Alfa cues shield grille, Milanese badge, offset license plate and hidden rear door handles individualise this five door. This base model lacks the presence of the top line Guilietta QV. Lowered suspension, bigger wheels and leather trim can be optioned if you really must.

Venture within and you're reminded Italy is a country that has struggled to consistently mass produce a decent affordable car. Oh, don't bother writing in. You know it's true. The Guilietta's inside story is as doleful and drab as the exterior is evocative. Fit, finish, materials and ergonimics aren't good enough. A $19,000 Cruze has better plastics.

SAFETY
Alfa has not Volkswagen's remorseless reputation, but its safety package is every bit as sound. Five stars from Euro NCAP are one thing, but it's the active ability component that will save you from putting that to the test.

DRIVING
Engage ignition. Select Dynamic mode. Find first gear. And be engaged. With the exception of Ford's Focus Sport, there's not a small car this side of hot hatch money that entertains to this degree. In any case, the Australian issue Ford for the moment lacks a turbo four to compete.
As things stand the entry Guilietta is a better all round device than the near $40,000 QV. A second slower to 100k/h it may be (7.8 seconds in the manual) but its ride serves vastly better when getting quickly across the busted blacktop that passes for a B road in this country.
While the heavier QV would be impacting hard the same ruts the Distinctive skims, it's also running out of puff. Though formidable down low, the QV's 1.75 turbo simply doesn't want to know after 5800rpm -- a frustratingly low, diesel-like ceiling. The ostensibly lesser car has meaningful power to impart on top of its torque. It's usefully more flexible and enjoyable, with a tastier engine note to boot.

VERDICT
Hardly the soundest small car choice, but at least you've made a choice.

Northstar Fiat and Northstar Alfa Romeo commenced business as the franchisee for these iconic Italian brands on February 1st 2013. We're both proud and pleased to finally bring the brands to the Redcliffe Peninsula and now at our new dealership at Morayfield. If we can be of assistance with Fiat or Alfa Romeo enquiries call into Northstar Motor Group at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the Redcliffe Peninsula, or at 266 Morayfield Road Morayfield, opposite Bunnings. We're only 15 minutes or so from Brisbane Airport and a leisurely drive down the highway from Noosa, Bundaberg, Maryborough, and a short trip from Nambour, Caloundra, Mooloolaba and Bribie Island. We also get a lot of our customers as FIDO - that's not a dog by the way, that's fly in drive out. With cheap airfares, our customers come in from Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Mt Isa and even Sydney, Melbourne and as far away as Perth.

We'll happily arrange a drive home registration and you know the best thing about this? The drive home gives you just the best running in you'll ever get. New engines love a long drive to bed everything in and you'll get the best economy you've ever experienced. Alternatively if you're time or distance poor, check us out online at www.nsmg.com.au or read more reviews at www.mycarreview.com.au . Finally, if you can't come to us, we'll come to your home, workplace or worksite - call Northstar on 1300 NTH STAR or 1300 684 782.

Source: www.carsguide.com.au 

Posted by Bob Aldons – Northstar Motor Group

The Mazda6 is cheaper than the Camry in the US but dearer than it in Australia ($33,460 versus $22,968).

Australian buyers pay more for cars than those in the US.

New-car prices are at record lows and driving a sales boom, but a survey by News Limited has found Australians still pay more than buyers in the USA. In some cases the prices are more than double.

The Nissan Pulsar and Toyota Corolla have both limboed to $19,990 locally in the past six months -- the same price they were 10 years ago. But the same models in North America start at between $16,140 and $17,850 respectively. The Australian dollar has had parity with the US dollar for two years.

Australia’s top-selling car, the Mazda3, has a recommended retail price of $20,330 locally (before on-road costs are added) but the same car starts at $18,370 in North America.

The gap widens as prices rise. A Toyota Camry starts from $30,490 locally but the same model is $24,460 in the USA.

Mazda’s mid-size sedan, the Mazda6, has an even greater price disparity -- more than $10,000. It’s cheaper than the Camry in the US but dearer than it in Australia ($33,460 versus $22,968).

Mazda Australia spokesman Steve Maciver said standard equipment varies from country to country: "We look at how we compare to our rivals and we are happy with our prices. We believe we offer good value for money."

More glaring examples begin in the $50,000 price bracket. A BMW 320i sedan in Australia costs $58,600 (just below the Luxury Car Tax threshold) but in the USA can be had for the same money as a Holden Commodore: $35,805. The Mercedes-Benz C-Class sedan has a greater disparity: $67,900 here versus $35,350 there.

The car industry argues new-car prices are higher in Australia because it costs more to recoup the development costs of right-hand-drive cars given that the markets are smaller.

“Volume is king and more cars are sold in left-hand-drive countries than in right-hand-drive countries, so the customer has to pay,” said Mercedes-Benz Australia spokesman David McCarthy. “We have worked hard to make our cars as affordable as possible, and put more equipment in them, and still make a profit.”

McCarthy said shipping costs are also higher because the distance is greater and the car carriers mostly leave Australia empty: “it’s a one-way trip”. The cost of financing vehicle orders also ties up more money because of the longer delivery time from Europe. “We as a wholesaler pay for each car as it leaves the factory gate, then it’s in transit for up to three months before the customer pays for it.”

German sportscar maker Porsche last week slashed prices across its range – by as much as $36,000 in some cases. But Australians still pay more than double than those in the USA for one of its speed machines.

A Porsche Carrera 911 was $229,400 in Australia before the price cut, but will drop to $206,500 from June 1. That might be cause for celebration for some, but the champagne loses its fizz when you discover the same car starts at $92,730 in the USA.

Australia’s Luxury Car Tax accounts for an extra 33 per cent of the Porsche’s price above $59,133 (the threshold set by the Federal Government). But that still doesn’t explain why the Australian price is more than double what it is in North America.

When asked why there was still such a large price anomaly, Porsche Australia spokesman Paul Ellis said: “You don’t price your car against what it costs in other countries, you price it against its local competitors. It’s market positioning.”

Prestige brands have strongly opposed Luxury car Tax since its inception in 2000, even though Toyota now pays more LCT than any other brand due to the large number of SUVs it sells over the threshold.

Porsche says the LCT is a “discriminatory tax”. “There isn’t a tax on other luxury goods. Cars are seen as a soft target,” said Ellis.

Call into Northstar Motor Group at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the Redcliffe Peninsula,  739 Deception Bay Road Rothwell, or at 266 Morayfield Road Morayfield (Opposite Bunnings Warehouse)

 We're only 15 minutes or so from Brisbane Airport and a leisurely drive down the highway from Noosa, Bundaberg, Maryborough, and a short trip from Nambour, Caloundra, Mooloolaba and Bribie Island. We also get a lot of our customers as FIDO - that's not a dog by the way, that's fly in drive out. With cheap airfares, our customers come in from Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Mt Isa and even Sydney, Melbourne and as far away as Perth.

Northstar continues to expand its brand portfolio. Along with the original Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge brands since 2003, Isuzu Ute and Volkswagen since 2008, Mahindra in 2012, Northstar now has Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Fiat Professional, and Abarth.

Source: www.carsguide.com.au 

Posted by Bob Aldons – Northstar Volkswagen

It hasn’t even hit Aussie roads yet, but the seventh generation Volkswagen Golf has been named the 2013 World Car of the Year.

It marks the second consecutive time VW has won the prestigious award, after claiming the title in 2012 with the Up!

Voted the best new vehicle out of an initial entry list of 42 cars, the 2013 Golf edged out rival finalists the Mercedes-Benz A-Class, Porsche Boxster/Cayman and the combined entry of the Toyota 86/Subaru BRZ.

A renowned judging panel of 66 journalists from 23 countries bestowed the honour on the Mk V11 Golf, claiming the new model is as close to the ‘perfect hatchback’ as any company has come yet.

 “Right sized, but spacious, practical and comfortable inside, the latest Golf has been brought up to date with a fresh if evolutionary design, a range of new engines, plus an impressive list of equipment and safety features. What’s more, it’s fun to drive. If ever there was a car for everyman, the Golf is it.”

If you want to experience new Volkswagen Golf in person, call into Northstar Volkswagen at 322 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the Redcliffe Peninsula after April 27th. We're only 15 minutes or so from Brisbane Airport and a leisurely drive down the highway from Noosa, Bundaberg, Maryborough, and a short trip from Nambour, Caloundra, Mooloolaba and Bribie Island. We also get a lot of our customers as FIDO - that's not a dog by the way, that's fly in drive out. With cheap airfares, our customers come in from Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Mt Isa and even Sydney, Melbourne and as far away as Perth.

We'll happily arrange a drive home registration and you know the best thing about this? The drive home gives you just the best running in you'll ever get. New engines love a long drive to bed everything in and you'll get the best economy you've ever experienced. Alternatively if you're time or distance poor, check us out online at www.northstarvw.com.au or read more reviews at www.mycarreview.com.au . Finally, if you can't come to us, we'll come to your home, workplace or worksite - call Northstar on 1300 NTH STAR or 1300 684 782

Source: http://motoring.ninemsn.com.au

Posted by Bob Aldons – Northstar Fiat Alfa

It has double electric slide-outs which increase the interior space and Jayco has a new range of interior layouts in high-roof models.

Fourteen months of customer research has gone into the new flagship Jayco motorhome.

The Optimum is now the brand's most innovative motorhome, with such luxuries as a push-button bed extender, two-

The motorhome is based on a Fiat Ducato X250 at $159,500 plus on-road costs, or an Iveco Daily 65C at $172,750 which can tow three tonne compared with the Fiat's 1200kg capacity. The Iveco also has greater carrying and seating capacities.

Both are powered by three-litre, four-cylinder turbo-diesel engines with 130kW of power and 400Nm of torque, married to six-speed auto transmissions. Jayco marketing director Andrew Ryan says the new Optimum motorhome range is "ideal for travellers who demand premium quality and have an eye for style".

"We think it packs a real punch in terms of comfort, looks and safety," he says. "We have really raised the bar with this range." He says Jayco used a range of research avenues to develop the new range. "Mainly feedback from dealers, past customers, and also discussions and research gleaned from caravan, motorhome and camping shows," he says.

Standard features include a barbecue, 120w solar panels, picnic table, outdoor entertainment system, extendable aluminium bed frame and satellite TV. Apart from extra luxury, Jayco has also upgraded safety on the new Optimum with a new rear-view mirror-mounted reversing screen and two rear cameras to help negotiate tight campsites.

The motorhome has double electric slide-outs which increase the interior space and Jayco has a new range of interior layouts in high-roof models. The exterior of the Fiat gets a new fibreglass nose cone and both models have updated side skirts, tail light assembly and new trunk doors. There are also new graphics and automotive-quality paintwork. Jayco's offers a 12-month warranty and roadside assist program free for three years.

Source: www.carsguide.com.au

Northstar Fiat and Northstar Alfa Romeo commenced business as the franchisee for these iconic Italian brands on February 1st 2013. We're both proud and pleased to finally bring the brands to the Redcliffe Peninsula. If we can be of assistance with Fiat or Alfa Romeo enquiries call into Northstar Motor Group at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the Redcliffe Peninsula. We're only 15 minutes or so from Brisbane Airport and a leisurely drive down the highway from Noosa, Bundaberg, Maryborough, and a short trip from Nambour, Caloundra, Mooloolaba and Bribie Island. We also get a lot of our customers as FIDO - that's not a dog by the way, that's fly in drive out. With cheap airfares, our customers come in from Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Mt Isa and even Sydney, Melbourne and as far away as Perth.

We'll happily arrange a drive home registration and you know the best thing about this? The drive home gives you just the best running in you'll ever get. New engines love a long drive to bed everything in and you'll get the best economy you've ever experienced. Alternatively if you're time or distance poor, check us out online at www.nsmg.com.au or read more reviews at www.mycarreview.com.au . Finally, if you can't come to us, we'll come to your home, workplace or worksite - call Northstar on 1300 NTH STAR or 1300 684 782.

Posted by Bob Aldons – Northstar Fiat Alfa

Alfa Romeo is reportedly working on a large luxury sedan in the tune of a BMW 5 Series/Mercedes-Benz E-Class rival. The new model would be like a modern interpretation of the old Alfa 166 sedan.

According to a recent Car Magazine report in the UK, Alfa’s large sedan will be built on the same platform as the one used for the upcoming Maserati Ghibli. This kind of component sharing would make a lot of sense, from a development cost and engineering point of view, considering Fiat owns both Alfa Romeo and Maserati.

It’s believed the Alfa might also adopt a similar powertrain that has been created for the new Ghibli. Specifically, a 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 which is capable of producing up to 301kW. The power is likely to be toned down for the Alfa compared with the Maserati.

The 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8, also from the new Quattroporte and Ghibli, could also be on the cards if Alfa decided to offer a high performance variant. It produces up to 390kW.

With Fiat now owning Chrysler, there’s also a possibility Alfa could adopt the 3.0-litre turbo-diesel engine from the 300 CRD sedan and the Jeep Grand Cherokee. In those vehicles the V6 produces 176kW and 550Nm.

It’s understood the new model will make a market entry in 2015. We’ll be sure to keep you updated with official details as soon as we hear more.

Source: www.performancedrive.com.au

Northstar Fiat and Northstar Alfa Romeo commenced business as the franchisee for these iconic Italian brands on February 1st 2013. We're both proud and pleased to finally bring the brands to the Redcliffe Peninsula. If we can be of assistance with Fiat or Alfa Romeo enquiries call into Northstar Motor Group at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the Redcliffe Peninsula. We're only 15 minutes or so from Brisbane Airport and a leisurely drive down the highway from Noosa, Bundaberg, Maryborough, and a short trip from Nambour, Caloundra, Mooloolaba and Bribie Island. We also get a lot of our customers as FIDO - that's not a dog by the way, that's fly in drive out. With cheap airfares, our customers come in from Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Mt Isa and even Sydney, Melbourne and as far away as Perth.

We'll happily arrange a drive home registration and you know the best thing about this? The drive home gives you just the best running in you'll ever get. New engines love a long drive to bed everything in and you'll get the best economy you've ever experienced. Alternatively if you're time or distance poor, check us out online at www.nsmg.com.au or read more reviews at www.mycarreview.com.au . Finally, if you can't come to us, we'll come to your home, workplace or worksite - call Northstar on 1300 NTH STAR or 1300 684 782.

Posted by Bob Aldons – Northstar Chrysler Jeep Dodge

If you want to experience Chrysler in the flesh, call into Northstar Chrysler at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the Redcliffe Peninsula. We're only 15 minutes or so from Brisbane Airport and a leisurely drive down the highway from Noosa, Bundaberg, Maryborough, and a short trip from Nambour, Caloundra, Mooloolaba and Bribie Island. We also get a lot of our customers as FIDO - that's not a dog by the way, that's fly in drive out. With cheap airfares, our customers come in from Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Mt Isa and even Sydney, Melbourne and as far away as Perth.

We'll happily arrange a drive home registration and you know the best thing about this? The drive home gives you just the best running in you'll ever get. New engines love a long drive to bed everything in and you'll get the best economy you've ever experienced. Alternatively if you're time or distance poor, check us out online at www.northstarchrysler.com.au or read more reviews at www.mycarreview.com.au .

Northstar Chrysler Jeep Dodge is Fiat Chrysler Groups Northern Metro Dealer of the Year for 2012 - all the more reason to discuss your Chrysler Jeep or Dodge  needs with us. Finally, if you can't come to us, we'll come to your home, workplace or worksite - call Northstar on 1300 BNE JEEP or 1300 263 533.

Chrysler will reveal its all-new 200 midsized sedan at January's Detroit Auto Show, according to reports out of the US this week.

Internal documents reportedly obtained by industry paper Automotive News suggest Chrysler will retire the current model part-way into the new year.

Production of the outgoing model is expected to end in January, allowing Chrysler's Detroit plant to tool up and begin production of the new model ahead of a mid-2014 showroom launch.

The new 200 is expected to ride on a Fiat-derived platform, utilising a version of the architecture found beneath the Alfa Romeo Giulietta and Dodge Dart, along with the new Jeep Cherokee an upcoming Alfa Giulia.

Adopting this platform also means that a right-hand-drive model could be on the cards, giving Chrysler outposts like Australia the option of a model beneath the big 300 sedan.

Engine options for the new 200 have not been confirmed, but it is expected that the nine-speed automatic transmission of the new Cherokee will also feature in the Chrysler sedan.

The new model is also expected to introduce a new styling language.

“The current Chryslers on the road today certainly don’t reflect where we’re headed,” Chrysler design boss Ralph Gilles told US site Wards Auto earlier this year.

“The new 200 shares no surface language with any previous Chrysler we’ve ever seen.”

While its left-hand-drive production has kept it from Australian showrooms, the current 200 has been a strong seller in the US, with sales rising 44 percent to 125,476 units in 2012.

Watch for the new 200 to appear at January's Detroit Auto Show.

Source: www.autonews.com

Posted by Bob Aldons – Northstar Fiat

Northstar Fiat and Northstar Alfa Romeo commenced business as the franchisee for these iconic Italian brands on February 1st 2013. We're both proud and pleased to finally bring the brands to the Redcliffe Peninsula. If we can be of assistance with Fiat or Alfa Romeo enquiries call into Northstar Motor Group at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the Redcliffe Peninsula. We're only 15 minutes or so from Brisbane Airport and a leisurely drive down the highway from Noosa, Bundaberg, Maryborough, and a short trip from Nambour, Caloundra, Mooloolaba and Bribie Island. We also get a lot of our customers as FIDO - that's not a dog by the way, that's fly in drive out. With cheap airfares, our customers come in from Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Mt Isa and even Sydney, Melbourne and as far away as Perth.

Posted by Bob Aldons – Northstar Chrysler Jeep Dodge

Call into Northstar Jeep at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the Redcliffe Peninsula. We're only 15 minutes or so from Brisbane Airport and a leisurely drive down the highway from Noosa, Bundaberg, Maryborough, and a short trip from Nambour, Caloundra, Mooloolaba and Bribie Island. We also get a lot of our customers as FIDO - that's not a dog by the way, that's fly in drive out. With cheap airfares, our customers come in from Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Mt Isa and even Sydney, Melbourne and as far away as Perth.

Posted by Bob Aldons – Northstar Volkswagen

If you want to experience Volkswagen Amarok in person, call into Northstar Volkswagen at 322 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the Redcliffe Peninsula. We're only 15 minutes or so from Brisbane Airport and a leisurely drive down the highway from Noosa, Bundaberg, Maryborough, and a short trip from Nambour, Caloundra, Mooloolaba and Bribie Island. We also get a lot of our customers as FIDO - that's not a dog by the way, that's fly in drive out. With cheap airfares, our customers come in from Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Mt Isa and even Sydney, Melbourne and as far away as Perth.

Posted by Bob Aldons – Northstar Volkswagen

Imagine being able to DRIVE to and from Melbourne for less that it would cost you to buy a discounted airfare - return. Think about the possibility that a petrol engine car is more efficient than an electric car.  Think no more – this is now a reality. Volkswagen have introduced the XL1 – using their 1 litre strategy, this amazing 2 seat plug in hybrid, can actually cover 50 kilometres a day, without using any fuel at all – just a top up electric charge.

However if you want to do a few more kilometres, then use the combination of electricity and fuel and be stunned – 0.9 litre per hundred kilometres. The XL1 will make a spectacular appearance – a car of the future, built for today.

Posted by Bob Aldons – Northstar Jeep

This is the Cherokee is saw when Mike Manley visited Australia last year. And believe me it’s been difficult keeping my opinion to myself all this time. What do I think? It’s revolutionary, not evolutionary and I’m confident that it will be a great seller. We won’t see new Cherokee until later this year, but get prepared for all sorts of pictures, comments and opinions when it’s first revealed at the New York Motor Show in March. Wish I was going.

Posted by Bob Aldons – Northstar Volkswagen

Volkswagen, Europe's biggest carmaker, says its net profit zoomed ahead by more the 40 per cent last year on higher vehicle sales.

VW said in a statement on Friday its net profit soared by 40.9 per cent to a record €21.7 billion ($A28.06 billion) in 2012 as revenues rose by 20.9 per cent to €192.7 billion and deliveries to customers were up 12.2 per cent at 9.276 million vehicles. Underlying or operating profit rose by 2.1 per cent to €11.51 billion.

The group said it would propose an increased dividend of €3.50 per share for 2012 compared with three euros per share a year earlier. Looking ahead, VW said it expected to "outperform the market as a whole in a challenging environment" and deliveries to customers would increase year-on-year. "However, we are not completely immune to the intense competition and the impact this has on business," it cautioned.

Posted by Bob Aldons – Northstar Motor Group

The new Fiat-Chrysler alliance is certainly taking off, with new pricing and competitive products, the vehicles on offer are more desirable than ever. As a result, overall worldwide sales between the brands increased by 12.7 per cent in January compared with January last year.

Posted by Bob Aldons – Northstar Volkswagen

Production of the 2014 VW XL1 is scheduled to commence later this year at the automaker’s plant in Osnabrück,

Less than six years after promising the world a car capable of returning a fuel economy of 1.0 litre of fuel burned per 100 kilometres driven, Volkswagen has done even better, revealing today, in production trim, a car capable of returning a fuel economy of about 0.9 litres per 100 kilometres.

Posted by Bob Aldons – Northstar Volkswagen

I’ve ordered mine – what about you. Northstar Volkswagen will probably only have 2 or 3 Fender edition Bugs available, so if you want to reserve one, give us a call on 1300 684 782. I’ve always wanted a Fender guitar – just so happens that I’ll have a great VW Beetle to go with it – rock on.

Posted By Bob Aldons : Northstar Fiat Alfa

Northstar Fiat and Northstar Alfa Romeo commenced business as the franchisee for these iconic Italian brands on February 1st 2013. We're both proud and pleased to finally bring the brands to the Redcliffe Peninsula. If we can be of assistance with Fiat or Alfa Romeo enquiries call into Northstar Motor Group at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the Redcliffe Peninsula. We're only 15 minutes or so from Brisbane Airport and a leisurely drive down the highway from Noosa, Bundaberg, Maryborough, and a short trip from Nambour, Caloundra, Mooloolaba and Bribie Island. We also get a lot of our customers as FIDO - that's not a dog by the way, that's fly in drive out. With cheap airfares, our customers come in from Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Mt Isa and even Sydney, Melbourne and as far away as Perth.

Posted by Bob Aldons : Northstar Fiat

Northstar Fiat and Northstar Alfa Romeo commenced business as the franchisee for these iconic Italian brands on February 1st 2013. We're both proud and pleased to finally bring the brands to the Redcliffe Peninsula. If we can be of assistance with Fiat or Alfa Romeo enquiries call into Northstar Motor Group at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the Redcliffe Peninsula. We're only 15 minutes or so from Brisbane Airport and a leisurely drive down the highway from Noosa, Bundaberg, Maryborough, and a short trip from Nambour, Caloundra, Mooloolaba and Bribie Island. We also get a lot of our customers as FIDO - that's not a dog by the way, that's fly in drive out. With cheap airfares, our customers come in from Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Mt Isa and even Sydney, Melbourne and as far away as Perth.

Posted by Bob Aldons – Northstar Alfa Romeo

Northstar Fiat and Northstar Alfa Romeo commenced business as the franchisee for these iconic Italian brands on February 1st 2013. We're both proud and pleased to finally bring the brands to the Redcliffe Peninsula. If we can be of assistance with Fiat or Alfa Romeo enquiries call into Northstar Motor Group at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the Redcliffe Peninsula. We're only 15 minutes or so from Brisbane Airport and a leisurely drive down the highway from Noosa, Bundaberg, Maryborough, and a short trip from Nambour, Caloundra, Mooloolaba and Bribie Island. We also get a lot of our customers as FIDO - that's not a dog by the way, that's fly in drive out. With cheap airfares, our customers come in from Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Mt Isa and even Sydney, Melbourne and as far away as Perth.

Posted by Bob Aldons – Northstar Alfa Romeo

Call into Northstar Motor Group at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the Redcliffe Peninsula. We're only 15 minutes or so from Brisbane Airport and a leisurely drive down the highway from Noosa, Bundaberg, Maryborough, and a short trip from Nambour, Caloundra, Mooloolaba and Bribie Island. We also get a lot of our customers as FIDO - that's not a dog by the way, that's fly in drive out. With cheap airfares, our customers come in from Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Mt Isa and even Sydney, Melbourne and as far away as Perth.

Northstar continues to expand its brand portfolio. Along with the original Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge brands since 2003, Isuzu Ute and Volkswagen since 2008, Mahindra in 2012 and Northstar now has Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Fiat Professional, and Abarth, the company is hopeful of securing Chinese brand Foton before the end of the year.

Posted by Bob Aldons – Northstar Volkswagen

You’d think that Mr Clarkson is employed by the German automotive behemoth. Never in my 35 years in the car industry have I read such a totally biased, one sided article. But, you know what, he’s probably correct.

If you read this story and then read the other recently posted blog –

HAS VOLKSWAGEN DISCOVERED THE HOLY GRAIL OF CARMAKERS? -

You’ll begin to understand  what this will ultimately achieve for Volkswagen – world domination of the car industry. It’s no surprise to see that Volkswagens goal is to be manufacturing leader by 2018, but there’s every chance that they’ll achieve that goal well before then.

Posted by Bob Aldons – Northstar Fiat Alfa Romeo

Italy's Alfa Romeo to make US comeback this year with new two-seat sports car

DETROIT (AP) -- After a 30-year absence, Italy's storied Alfa Romeo brand will return to the United States later this year with a new two-seat compact sports car.

Italian automaker Fiat SpA said Tuesday that the long-delayed Alfa 4C will go on sale during the second half of the year. Fiat owns Alfa and controls the Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Ram brands in the U.S.

The 4C will officially debut at the Geneva International Motor Show next month. The low-sitting car with flared fenders is based on Alfa's history of racing. It has a turbocharged 1.75-Liter aluminum four-cylinder engine with 200-plus horsepower. The chassis is made of lightweight and expensive carbon fiber.

The rear-wheel-drive car will cost around $60,000 in the U.S. and be sold at U.S. Fiat dealers. The company plans to make about 1,500 per year at a Maserati factory in Modena, Italy. Half the cars will be sent to the U.S.

Fiat has promised the 4C would lead Alfa's return to the U.S. ever since a concept prototype was put on display in Geneva in 2011.

"This is the first car," Fiat spokesman Richard Gadeselli said. "In the next year, you'll see another."

Chrysler's U.S. business plan has five more Alfa Romeos coming to the U.S. by 2016. That includes an Alfa Romeo SUV, the Giulia sedan and a station wagon. Alfa also has plans for a large sedan in the U.S. market.

The Alfa debut in the U.S. is good news for Fiat dealers, who have invested in dealerships but have had few models to sell. Fiat returned to the U.S. in late 2010 with only one model, the 500 mini-car. The company has since added electric and four-door versions of the 500.

Sales started slow but more than doubled last year to almost 44,000. Still, the number is below Fiat's main competitor, BMW's Mini brand. BMW sold more than 66,000 Minis in the U.S. last year.

Source :http://au.finance.yahoo.com

Northstar Fiat and Northstar Alfa Romeo commenced business as the franchisee for these iconic Italian brands on February 1st 2013. We're both proud and pleased to finally bring the brands to the Redcliffe Peninsula. If we can be of assistance with Fiat or Alfa Romeo enquiries call into Northstar Motor Group at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the Redcliffe Peninsula. We're only 15 minutes or so from Brisbane Airport and a leisurely drive down the highway from Noosa, Bundaberg, Maryborough, and a short trip from Nambour, Caloundra, Mooloolaba and Bribie Island. We also get a lot of our customers as FIDO - that's not a dog by the way, that's fly in drive out. With cheap airfares, our customers come in from Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Mt Isa and even Sydney, Melbourne and as far away as Perth.

We'll happily arrange a drive home registration and you know the best thing about this? The drive home gives you just the best running in you'll ever get. New engines love a long drive to bed everything in and you'll get the best economy you've ever experienced. Alternatively if you're time or distance poor, check us out online at www.nsmg.com.au  or read more reviews at www.mycarreview.com.au . Finally, if you can't come to us, we'll come to your home, workplace or worksite - call Northstar on 1300 NTH STAR or 1300 684 782.

Posted by Bob Aldons – Northstar Fiat

Northstar Fiat and Northstar Alfa Romeo commence business as the franchisee for these iconic Italian brands on February 1st 2013. We're both proud and pleased to finally bring the brands to the Redcliffe Peninsula. In the meantime, if we can be of assistance with Fiat or Alfa Romeo enquiries call into Northstar Motor Group at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the Redcliffe Peninsula. We're only 15 minutes or so from Brisbane Airport and a leisurely drive down the highway from Noosa, Bundaberg, Maryborough, and a short trip from Nambour, Caloundra, Mooloolaba and Bribie Island. We also get a lot of our customers as FIDO - that's not a dog by the way, that's fly in drive out. With cheap airfares, our customers come in from Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Mt Isa and even Sydney, Melbourne and as far away as Perth.

Posted By Bob Aldons - Northstar Fiat Alfa

What’s a rendering?

Honestly I thought that’s what plasterers do on a brick, block or concrete wall. Seems that I don’t really know. Rendering is what you see below – the new Alfa Giulia Wagon. MMMM – I like what I see.

Posted by Bob Aldons – Northstar Chrysler

If you want to experience Chrysler  in the flesh, call into Northstar Chrysler at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the Redcliffe Peninsula. We're only 15 minutes or so from Brisbane Airport and a leisurely drive down the highway from Noosa, Bundaberg, Maryborough, and a short trip from Nambour, Caloundra, Mooloolaba and Bribie Island. We also get a lot of our customers as FIDO - that's not a dog by the way, that's fly in drive out. With cheap airfares, our customers come in from Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Mt Isa and even Sydney, Melbourne and as far away as Perth.

We'll happily arrange a drive home registration and you know the best thing about this? The drive home gives you just the best running in you'll ever get. New engines love a long drive to bed everything in and you'll get the best economy you've ever experienced. Alternatively if you're time or distance poor, check us out online at www.northstarchrysler.com.au or read more reviews at www.mycarreview.com.au .

Northstar Chrysler Jeep Dodge is Fiat Chrysler Groups Northern Metro Dealer Of The Year for 2012 - all the more reason to discuss your Jeep needs with us. Finally, if you can't come to us, we'll come to your home, workplace or worksite - call Northstar on 1300 BNE JEEP or 1300 263 533.

2011 Chrysler 200

2014 Chrysler 200 to feature a new design language

Chrysler's Senior Vice President of Product Design has revealed some new details about the next-generation 200 which is due in 2014.

Speaking to Wards Auto, Ralph Gilles said the 200 will have a new styling language with a "very different feeling [and] look." The executive was coy on details, buthinted the car will be a "beautiful and relevant vehicle."

While the Chrysler 200 will get a revamp, the Dodge Avenger won't be as lucky as it isscheduled to be phased out at the end of the year. Despite this, it's not all bad news for Dodge as Gilles teased “The Challenger is the oldest interior of the whole group, the electronics are the oldest in the group. There’s a lot of potential – I’ll leave it at that.”

Source: Wards Auto via Automobile Magazine

Posted By Bob Aldons – Northstar Fiat Alfa

Northstar Fiat and Northstar Alfa Romeo commence business as the franchisee for these iconic Italian brands on February 1st 2013. We're both proud and pleased to finally bring the brands to the Redcliffe Peninsula. In the meantime, if we can be of assistance with Fiat or Alfa Romeo enquiries call into Northstar Motor Group at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the Redcliffe Peninsula. We're only 15 minutes or so from Brisbane Airport and a leisurely drive down the highway from Noosa, Bundaberg, Maryborough, and a short trip from Nambour, Caloundra, Mooloolaba and Bribie Island. We also get a lot of our customers as FIDO - that's not a dog by the way, that's fly in drive out. With cheap airfares, our customers come in from Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Mt Isa and even Sydney, Melbourne and as far away as Perth.

We'll happily arrange a drive home registration and you know the best thing about this? The drive home gives you just the best running in you'll ever get. New engines love a long drive to bed everything in and you'll get the best economy you've ever experienced. Alternatively if you're time or distance poor, check us out online at www.nsmg.com.au or read more reviews at www.mycarreview.com.au . Finally, if you can't come to us, we'll come to your home, workplace or worksite - call Northstar on 1300 NTH STAR or 1300 684 782.

Alfa Romeo 4C Concept live in Geneva - 01.03.2011

"Should be here by the end of the year"

Alfa Romeo's return to U.S. saga continues with Sergio Marchionne saying the 4C will go on sale in the United States before the end of the year.

Friday during the 2013 Detroit Auto Show, Chrysler & Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne declared "we're finalizing the car now, so it should be here by the end of the year." This is a contradicting statement as earlier this week during NAIAS he said the Alfa Romeo 4C would be delayed. He added the engine and other Alfa Romeo models will be manufactured in Italy, but Fiat has not been able so far to finalize all details regarding Alfa's U.S. re-launch.

Late last year Alfa Romeo released a teaser with the 4C, saying it's "the car to end all cars." The production version is likely to get a 4-cylinder, 1.8-liter turbocharged engine producing about 230 hp (172 kW). Thanks to a dual-clutch gearbox and a lightweight construction, the 4C should run the 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) sprint in less than 5 seconds and hit a top speed of around 155 mph (250 km/h).

Source: detroitnews.com

Posted by Bob Aldons – Northstar Motor Group

Call into Northstar Motor Group at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the Redcliffe Peninsula. We're only 15 minutes or so from Brisbane Airport and a leisurely drive down the highway from Noosa, Bundaberg, Maryborough, and a short trip from Nambour, Caloundra, Mooloolaba and Bribie Island. We also get a lot of our customers as FIDO - that's not a dog by the way, that's fly in drive out. With cheap airfares, our customers come in from Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Mt Isa and even Sydney, Melbourne and as far away as Perth.

We'll happily arrange a drive home registration and you know the best thing about this? The drive home gives you just the best running in you'll ever get. New engines love a long drive to bed everything in and you'll get the best economy you've ever experienced. Alternatively if you're time or distance poor, check us out online at www.nsmg.com.au or read more reviews at www.mycarreview.com.au . Finally, if you can't come to us, we'll come to your home, workplace or worksite - call Northstar on 1300 NTH STAR or 1300 684 782.

The D-Max doesn't have the highest towing weight rating in the one-tonner ute class, but it's built like a tank.

Our pick of the vehicles for towing your trailer, boat, van or jet-ski.

You'll only see one petrol model in this top-10 list of towing vehicles. A diesel is infinitely more suited to dragging a load around.

It's got more of that all-important commodity called torque (otherwise known as "grunt'' and measured in Newton metres) and the fuel bills won't kill you. The ideal towing combo is diesel/automatic/all-wheel drive.

Always give yourself plenty of leeway on weight limits and keep within the crucial Gross Combination Mass (GCM). This is the all-up weight of your vehicle, trailer, your gear, fuel and you. Car companies will often argue a warranty claim that's a result of towing; the GCM, which you'll find in the handbook, is the first figure they'll use as evidence.

JEEP  GRAND CHEROKEE
This is great value for money, especially the $50,000 base Laredo 3.0-litre V6 turbo diesel. It produces big grunt 550Nm -- and is bolted to a five-speed automatic with a dual-range transfer case. OK, it's a Fiat engine, but they're a lot more reliable than they used to be. So they reckon.

It's rated to tow up to 3500kg, with a maximum towball download of 350kg. So is the 5.7-litre V8. Unless your name begins with "Sheikh," take the diesel.

Source: http://www.carsguide.com.au

Posted by Bob Aldons – Northstar Fiat Alfa

Northstar Fiat and Northstar Alfa Romeo commence business as the franchisee for these iconic Italian brands on February 1st 2013. We're both proud and pleased to finally bring the brands to the Redcliffe Peninsula. In the meantime, if we can be of assistance with Fiat or Alfa Romeo enquiries call into Northstar Motor Group at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the Redcliffe Peninsula. We're only 15 minutes or so from Brisbane Airport and a leisurely drive down the highway from Noosa, Bundaberg, Maryborough, and a short trip from Nambour, Caloundra, Mooloolaba and Bribie Island. We also get a lot of our customers as FIDO - that's not a dog by the way, that's fly in drive out. With cheap airfares, our customers come in from Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Mt Isa and even Sydney, Melbourne and as far away as Perth.

We'll happily arrange a drive home registration and you know the best thing about this? The drive home gives you just the best running in you'll ever get. New engines love a long drive to bed everything in and you'll get the best economy you've ever experienced. Alternatively if you're time or distance poor, check us out online at www.nsmg.com.au  or read more reviews at www.mycarreview.com.au . Finally, if you can't come to us, we'll come to your home, workplace or worksite - call Northstar on 1300 NTH STAR or 1300 684 782.

The 2010 Pininfarina-styled Alfa Romeo '2uettottanta' concept may hint at future styling.

Following an earlier announcement in May last year, Mazda and Fiat have announced the signing of a 'final agreement' which will see Mazda produce an open-top, two-seater sports car for Fiat’s Alfa Romeo brand at its Hiroshima plant, starting from 2015.

The new Alfa Romeo roadster will be developed for the global market, and will be based on the architecture of the next generation Mazda MX-5.

The agreement foresees both Mazda and Fiat developing two differentiated, distinctly styled, iconic and brand-specific roadsters, featuring rear-wheel drive.

The Mazda and Alfa Romeo variants will each be powered by specific proprietary engines unique to each brand.

Through this contractual agreement, Mazda aims to enhance development and production efficiency and revitalise enthusiasm for open-top, two-seater sports cars around the world.

For Fiat, this collaboration will permit the company to deliver a modern interpretation of the classic Alfa Romeo roadsterutilising the latest technical solutions, helping Alfa Romeo to achieve its stated goals by 2016.

Source: http://www.autotalk.com.au

Posted by Bob Aldons – Northstar Chrysler Jeep Dodge

Call into Northstar Jeep at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the Redcliffe Peninsula. We're only 15 minutes or so from Brisbane Airport and a leisurely drive down the highway from Noosa, Bundaberg, Maryborough, and a short trip from Nambour, Caloundra, Mooloolaba and Bribie Island. We also get a lot of our customers as FIDO - that's not a dog by the way, that's fly in drive out. With cheap airfares, our customers come in from Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Mt Isa and even Sydney, Melbourne and as far away as Perth.

We'll happily arrange a drive home registration and you know the best thing about this? The drive home gives you just the best running in you'll ever get. New engines love a long drive to bed everything in and you'll get the best economy you've ever experienced. Alternatively if you're time or distance poor, check us out online at www.northstarjeep.com.au or read more reviews at www.mycarreview.com.au.

Northstar Chrysler Jeep Dodge is Fiat Chrysler Groups Northern Metro Dealer of the Year for 2012 - all the more reason to discuss your Jeep needs with us. Finally, if you can't come to us, we'll come to your home, workplace or worksite - call Northstar on 1300 BNE JEEP or 1300 263 533.

Owners will also be given more scope to personalise their vehicles with more colours and interior trim options.

Jeep has unveiled the new Grand Cherokee at the Detroit motor show.

A customisable instrument display and heavily revised interior mark the mid-life facelift for the Jeep Grand Cherokee. Jeep’s flagship SUV adopts a more upmarket look inside and out, with smaller headlamps styled along the lines of the Chrysler 300, classier interior materials and a Euro-style eight-speed automatic that improves fuel economy and performance.

Steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters join the standard equipment, along with dual-zone climate control, adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning.

The instrument gauges are displayed on a 7-inch colour “vehicle information screen” that drivers can customise to show everything from digital speed to fuel economy, stored messages, exterior temperature, average and current fuel economy and compass bearing.

The centre stack has been revised with new switchgear and the 8.4-inch infotainment touchscreen now uses the third generation of Jeep’s UConnect software, providing voice control of the phone, sound system and satnav functions. Functions can be upgraded using the internet connection, giving owners access to the latest software developments from the Chrysler group.

A new top-spec Summit model will also be launched complete with 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system and suede roof lining when the revised cars go on sale later this year.  Owners will also be given more scope to personalise their vehicles with more colours and interior trim options.

The performance SRT8 versions now stand out from the line-up with blacked out finishes in place of the regular chrome. The ZF transmission has a launch mode and the infotainment system will display a range of performance statistics, from the transmission oil temperature to cornering G forces.

Source: www.carsguide.com.au/news-and-reviews/car-news/next_jeep_grand_cherokee_debuts

Commentary by Bob Aldons - Northstar Volkswagen

The new Beetle isn't here as yet - in fact we won't see it until the first quarter of 2013. That doesn't mean that there hasn't been a groundswell of interest in the first Volkswagen ever designed. In fact it's growing even with 8 months to go.

New Beetle is expected here with the Golf TSI and TDI engines and DSG transmissions, a long way forward from the 1.6 EFI of the previous version. Rumour has it we'll also get the HOT BUG with the 155kw GTI engine and that will turn a good car into a great car.

ABT Volkswagen Beetle 2.0 TDI 02.8.2012

ABT Sportsline has introduced a new tuning program for Volkswagen Beetles equipped with the 2.0-liter TDI engine.

Starting under the hood, the engine has been retuned to produce 170 PS (125 kW / 168 hp) and 370 Nm (273 lb-ft) of torque - an increase of 30 PS (22 kW / 30 hp) and 50 Nm (37 lb-ft). Thanks to the extra oomph, the car accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 8.8 seconds which 0.6 seconds faster than the standard model....read more

If you want to experience VW in the flesh, call into Northstar Volkswagen at 322 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the Redcliffe Peninsula. We're only 15 minutes or so from Brisbane Airport and a leisurely drive down the highway from Noosa, Bundaberg, Maryborough, and a short trip from Nambour, Caloundra, Mooloolaba and Bribie Island. We also get a lot of our customers as FIDO - that's not a dog by the way, that's fly in drive out. With cheap airfares, our customers come in from Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Mt Isa and even Sydney, Melbourne and as far away as Perth.

We'll happily arrange a drive home registration and you know the best thing about this? The drive home gives you just the best running in you'll ever get. New engines love a long drive to bed everything in and you'll get the best economy you've ever experienced. Alternatively if you're time or distance poor, check us out online at www.northstarvw.com.au or read more reviews at www.mycarreview.com.au . Finally, if you can't come to us, we'll come to your home, workplace or worksite - call Northstar on 1300 894 655.

Commentary by Bob Aldons - Northstar Jeep

I was recently invited to a meeting of selected dealers and senior head office managers in Melbourne to spend an hour or so with Jeep head honcho, Mike Manley. Amongst topics such as projected volumes for Australian Chrysler Jeep and Dodge sales were discussions and images of forthcoming Jeep vehicles for the next few years.

I'd like to tell you that my I Phone video was going flat out, but the truth is that the design images are so confidential, that I'd probably end up as the owner of a Jeep dealership in Antarctica AND be shackled and gagged as well  - in Winter. So let me say then that I left that meeting thinking about how to expand our showroom. Can't tell - Can't talk.

The start of this Jeep thing for us recently is the Grand Cherokee and the freshen up of the Jeep Wrangler. The review following tells the story - ugly duckling turns into a beautiful, but tough Swan.

Retro styling at its best Jeep Wrangler makes a statement about its heritage.

Call into Northstar Jeep at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the Redcliffe Peninsula. We're only 15 minutes or so from Brisbane Airport and a leisurely drive down the highway from Noosa, Bundaberg, Maryborough, and a short trip from Nambour, Caloundra, Mooloolaba and Bribie Island. We also get a lot of our customers as FIDO - that's not a dog by the way, that's fly in drive out. With cheap airfares, our customers come in from Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Mt Isa and even Sydney, Melbourne and as far away as Perth.

We'll happily arrange a drive home registration and you know the best thing about this? The drive home gives you just the best running in you'll ever get. New engines love a long drive to bed everything in and you'll get the best economy you've ever experienced. Alternatively if you're time or distance poor, check us out online at www.northstarchrysler.com.au or read more reviews at www.mycarreview.com.au . Finally, if you can't come to us, we'll come to your home, workplace or worksite - call Northstar on 1300 894 655.

Jeep Wrangler is the direct descendant of the original WW2 US Army Jeep and enjoys an iconic status with those who venture off-road.

TECHNOLOGY

The 2012 Jeep Wrangler is fitted with a 3.6-litre V6 petrol engine that produces more power and torque than the previous 3.8-litre power plant, while also reducing fuel consumption. In addition, Jeep has finally booted out the old four-speed auto in favour of a new five-speed. The new Pentastar 3.6-litre V6 offers 209 kW of power (up by a whopping 63 kW) and 347 Nm of torque, up from 315 Nm in the old 3.8-litre.

DESIGN

Wrangler's interior is a mix of retro design, in keeping with the Jeep philosophy, and modern technology. We like the driving position and the overall comfort of the front pews. There are some things that take some getting used to such as some important switches – traction control, hill descent control, emergency flashing lights and outside mirror – buried at the bottom of the centre stack.

The power window switches are mid way down the dash centre stacker. The reason for this is simple: the doors are removable. Getting in and out of the back seat is an ordeal. With all four seats in use the Wrangler's luggage area is about large enough for two aircraft flight bags. But the rear seat does fold and tumble giving a fair swag of room for camping gear. Wrangler two-door tows 1000 kg by the way....read more

Northstar Bugatti - it's got a certain ring to it. In this area of the super luxury car market, you can only dream. The latest creation from the styling studios of the world's fastest production car is the Bugatti Grand Sport special edition.

At a cost of about 2 million dollars (plus on road costs and dealer delivery charges) an educated guess is that there won't be any coming to Australia any time soon.

Bugatti Grand Sport special edition introduced in Qatar

Costs €1.58 ($2.03 / £1.30) million

Bugatti has announced plans to introduce a bespoke Veyron Grand Sport at the Qatar Motor Show.

Likely the previously announced Middle East Edition, the model has a two-tone exterior with a yellow body and an exposed carbon fiber lower section. There are also black wheels with silver accents.

Inside, the color scheme carries over with yellow leather seats and a black dashboard. Elsewhere, there's carbon fiber trim and a black steering wheel with yellow contrast stitching.

The one-off Grand Sport will be priced from €1.58 ($2.03 / £1.30) million.

Source: Bugatti - Read more: http://www.worldcarfans.com/112012340190/bugatti-grand-sport-special-edition-introduced-in-qatar#ixzz1kPUtHT9E

Dr Carol Kinsey holds a Ph.D and discusses body language as it effects your relationships with customers, fellow team members, and even your nearest and dearest.

The art of reading someone's body language isn't difficult even with the most basic understanding. You've probably see the hit US television show Lie To Me, which features Tom Roth as Dr Cal Lightman. The show features terms such as Facial Action Coding Systems, microexpressions and of course body language as the core of the various plots in the series.

Whilst we won't always delve this deeply into the interrelationships with our customers, we can be aware of the signs that simple body language provides for us in a selling situation.

Dr Goman outlines 5 simple steps that you may find useful in your day to day business

Regards
Bob Aldons - The Car Professor

 Your nonverbal signals don't always convey what you intended them to. In fact, when people read your body language, you can count on them making five major mistakes.

Body language was the basis for our earliest form of communication when the split-second ability to recognize if a person or situation was benign or dangerous was often a matter of life or death.

Today, nonverbal signals play a key role in helping us form quick impressions. But, as innate as this ability may be, not all of our impressions are accurate. Although our brains are hardwired to respond instantly to certain nonverbal cues, that circuitry was put in place a long time ago – when our ancient ancestors faced threats and challenges very different from those we face in today's modern society. The problem is that the world has changed, but our body reading processes are still based on a primitive emotional reaction that hasn't changed much since humans began interacting with one another.

For example: In our prehistory, it may have been vitally important to see an approaching person's hands in order to evaluate his intent. If hands were concealed they could very well be holding a rock, a club, or other means of doing us harm. In business interactions today, with no logical reason to do so, we still instinctively mistrust someone who keeps his hands out of sight — in his pockets, below the table, or behind his back.

The following is adapted from my new book, "The Silent Language of Leaders: How Body Language Can Help – or Hurt – How You Lead." Here are the five mistakes people make when they read your body language:


1) They won't consider the context.
When it comes to body language, context is king. You can't really make sense of someone's nonverbal message unless you understand the circumstances behind it. Context is a weave of variables including location, relationships, time of day, past experience, and even room temperature. Depending on the context, the same nonverbal signals can take on totally different meanings.
Your team members, and colleagues won't always have access to this insight. So if you yawn in a staff meeting because you were up early for an international business call – let people know why you're tired. Without this context, you'll look like you're just bored.


2) They'll find meaning in one gesture.
People are constantly trying to evaluate your state of mind by monitoring your body language. But all too often they will assign meaning to a single (and sometimes irrelevant) nonverbal cue. And, since the human brain pays more attention to negative messages than it does to positive ones, people are mainly on the alert for any sign that indicates you're in a bad mood and not to be approached.

So – you may be more comfortable standing with your arms folded across your chest (or you may be cold), but don't be surprised when others judge that gesture as resistant and unapproachable.


3) They won't know your baseline.
One of the keys to accurately reading body language is to compare someone's current nonverbal response to their baseline, or normal behavior. But if people haven't observed you over time, they have little basis for that comparison.

Remember this when meeting people for the first time. They won't know that you habitually frown when you are concentrating. (And you may not realize it either unless you ask a friend or coach for feedback.) Others will most likely think the frown is a reaction to something they said or did.


4) They'll evaluate you through an array of personal biases.
There is a woman in my yoga class who liked me from the moment we met. I'd prefer to believe that this was a result of my charismatic personality, but I know for a fact that it's because I resemble her favorite aunt.

Sometimes biases work in your favor – an example of the so-called "halo effect." But biases can also work against you. What if, instead of someone they like, you remind people of someone they despise? You might overcome it with time, but you can bet that their initial response to you won't be a good one.

5) They'll evaluate through a filter of cultural biases.
When it comes to nonverbal communication and cultural differences, you can expect to be judged by behaviors that include how close you stand to a colleague in conversation, how much or little you touch others, the degree of emotion in your voice, the amount of eye contact you display, and the kind of hand gestures you use. And what feels so right in one culture may be seen as highly insulting in another. (So before you attend that international business meeting, do a little research to on the nonverbal business practices that you're most likely to encounter.)

These are the five mistakes you can expect people to make. Understanding them, and trying not to make the same mistakes, will help you be a more effective nonverbal communicator.

Carol Kinsey Goman, Ph.D. is an executive coach, keynote speaker, seminar leader, and author of "The Silent Language of Leaders: How Body Language Can Help – or Hurt – How You Lead." Visit her website at www.CKG.com or contact her directly here [email protected]">[email protected].

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Remember the line in the movie, Top Gun, starring Tom Cruise and Kelly McGillis? "I feel the need, the need for speed" The Australian Car Industry can't be called a speed industry. It's be stalled around the 1 million mark for the last few years and will probably scrape over the bar again in 2011. This in a market where we have more brands represented, many more models than ever before and varied competition from dealers, brokers and a competitive private to private market. At the end of November, the 2011 sales ladder looked like this - review the number on the LH column:

The Challenge Now let's see how clever our automotive community is. Obviously the first column is obtained from VFacts - the industry gauge on what's happening with the sector. Not that VFacts is a reliable gauge any longer, what with manufacturers stacking the numbers like never before. However the second column is from arguably the most reliable provider of information. Let me know what you reckon the second column is - it's certainly something our customers think is pretty important.