The Kia Carnival requires no introduction, consistently dominating the sales charts as Australia’s favourite people mover.

With chic styling, a flurry of new features, and a revamped lineup, the latest facelift is bound to ensure the Carnival maintains its supremacy over its rivals.

We recently spent the weekend with the all-new, top-of-the-range GT-Line trim to experience how it navigates its ideal habitat – the suburbs of Brisbane. Here are our thoughts.

Initial Impressions

Kia has done away with the term “People Mover” for what it believes is a more fitting representation – a Grand Utility Vehicle – and there’s no denying the facelift Carnival, especially in the GT-Line, makes a grand first impression. 

Borrowed from its battery-powered EV9 sibling, the Carnival’s revised, geometrically-inspired exterior styling looks incredible. Kia has transformed the stereotypically frumpy people mover into a ride that could even be considered sexy (though they’ve already reached this point a generation or two ago). The retooled head and tail light arrangements, fresh GT-Line wheel designs, and overall boxier styling form a package that exhibits elegance and practicality with a futuristic flair.

Stepping inside, you’re greeted with an exceptionally spacious interior with loads of great storage options on hand. The gorgeous panoramic display console curves itself from the far right of the steering wheel along the dash to the far edge of the centre dash offering a seamless look for the two main screens – the centre infotainment screen and digital driver’s display. 

Interior colours are muted yet the attention to detail in the patterns that define each element – and the refined touch of the premium seats of the GT-Line – ensure that the cabin offers a sense of luxury. Chrome-like garnishings blend well with the dark interior highlighting key features such as the heating and ventilation controls for the front-row seats.

Interior Indulgences

The driver is absolutely spoilt in the GT-Line with 12-way power seat adjustment with memory settings as well as heating and ventilation options. The centre console features a large cubby for all your essentials, with a wireless charging station to keep your smartphone powered on the go. This goes hand-in-hand with the wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto keeping you connected without interruption. The GT-Line also conveniences the driver with a crisp Head Up Display, digital rearview mirror and paddle shifters.

The Carnival’s second and third rows are where it shines as a people mover. The power sliding doors, operated remotely via the key fob, make entry and exit convenient. The second row has oodles of legroom, and all three seats can be adjusted independently. This makes accessing the third row easy. Both passenger rows in the Carnival feature USB-C outlets, speakers, air vents and cupholders, while the GT-Line model also comes with sunshades for the windows in the second and third rows. 

The best seats in the Carnival would have to be the second-row outboard seats. Not only are you spoilt with captain’s chairs with multiple adjustment options and cozy seat heating, but the second row can also independently control its climate settings with a dedicated temperature control panel inset into the ceiling. The backrest of the middle seat also flips down in one motion to present a handy centre table and an extra set of cupholders.

We are really impressed with the design of the third-row seats and how easily they seamlessly stow away into the floor. The resulting open space is free from bulky and uneven floor panels, unlike some other three-row cars, providing excellent flexibility for cargo. Even with the third-row seats in use, the deep, vertical space created in the floor is still quite impressive in terms of volume. Furthermore, the deep opening in the floor provides a secure space for your groceries to sit without moving around.

Tech & Luxury

While the GT-Line’s booming 12-speaker Bose premium sound system will get the whole family moving, it’s the Centerpoint Surround Technology that elevates the system to an immersive listening experience. Where most music is typically recorded in stereo sound, with two channels for left and right – Centerpoint Surround Technology converts your music into multiple channels, providing a fully immersive surround sound experience. You also have the luxury of opening up your listening party to the world outside and bringing in those sunny Queensland days with the GT-Line’s dual sunroofs. 

If you prefer to use the native infotainment system, the Carnival has you covered above and beyond. The sat-nav system is consistent and receives ongoing over-the-air updates, while you can use the AI Voice Commands with Natural Voice Recognition to stay in complete control. You don’t even need to take your hands off the steering wheel with voice command, audio and Bluetooth controls mounted directly on the steering wheel. On top of this, Kia Connect Telematics gives you all the eCall, remote control and vehicle status monitoring capabilities that you need straight from your smartphone.

Just about every opening on the Carnival GT-Line can be powered electronically and, better yet, operated remotely via the smart key. Open both sliding doors, open/close the rear tailgate, start the engine, and even remotely drive the Carnival itself out of a tight parking spot from the convenience of your high-tech smart key. If you haven’t experienced the Remote Smart Park Assist, we encourage you to drop into a Motorama Kia showroom and ask to see it in action – it’s a seriously impressive piece of technology.

Safety First

It’s no surprise that a car designed to transport multiple humans sports plenty of driver and passenger safety tech. It’s also no surprise that Australia’s best-selling people mover is packed with an absolute motza of active and passive safety features. For your parking needs, you get sensors for every angle complete with a handy dash display, a crisp rearview camera, and even a 360-degree camera display (Sport+ trim and above). Your blindspots are covered by the blindspot view monitor that displays the view from the side camera on your instrument cluster when indicating left or right. If that’s not enough, the Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist will help you avoid any nasty merging incidents. The Autonomous Emergency Braking detects cars, pedestrians, cyclists and potential incidents when turning at a junction. In the event of a collision, several airbags give great protection all around including curtain SRS airbags present in all three rows. 

If you need to transport a horde of young children, the Carnival is the ideal vehicle for you. Standard across the range are five sets of both Top Tether and ISOFIX child restraint anchorage points meaning your your whole flock of little ones is safe and secure in any seat. 

The best part of these safety systems though is that the key features come standard across the Carnival range. The MY25 Carnival also retains its five-star ANCAP safety rating so you know it holds up to the highest of regulatory standards. 

Power Mover

You’re spoilt for choice with engine options in the MY25 Carnival with both petrol and diesel drivetrains available as well as a brand-new hybrid option. The model we drove was the diesel-powered turbocharged 2.2 litre, four-cylinder pushing out 148kW of power that trundles along with combined fuel consumption at a super impressive 6.5 litres per 100 kilometres. The petrol model offered is a 3.5 litre, V6 pushing out a hefty 216kW of power so it definitely boogies. Despite the obvious consumption increase over the diesel drivetrain, the petrol still comes in at a combined figure of 9.6 litres per 100 kilometres. Both petrol and diesel models feature a smooth eight-speed automatic (Sports-matic as Kia calls it) transmission that shifts so effortlessly, you’ll barely notice it.

We found the diesel engine to be a great highway traveller with how effortlessly it sails along at a low RPM. The deep but muted rumble of the engine instils a subtle confidence in the power residing underneath, ready to haul a full load of passengers and cargo without a worry.

Watch this space for an update on the hybrid powertrain. As of this article’s writing, we have yet to see the new hybrid in our showrooms, however, we expect similar results as the Kia Sportage Hybrid.

Pricing

With five trim levels and two drivetrains available (hybrid to come), there’s a facelifted Carnival to suit most budgets. The new model lineup consists of the S, Sport, Sport+, GT-Line Lite, and the GT-Line.

The diesel-powered GT-Line that we tested is the priciest of the bunch, available from Motorama Kia for $77,390 drive away. The most affordable trim is the petrol-powered S model which comes in at a comfortable $54,540 drive away.

The price difference between the drivetrains of the same trim is about $2,200 more for diesel power over petrol power, while the biggest leaps in price occur on the lower end with an average of about a $6,200 difference between the bottom three variants. 

The most affordable price leap is between the Sport+ and the GT-Line Lite at just $3,900, while the increase to the top of the range is only another $4,350. In general, Kia has made it pretty simple to find the right Carnival for your budget as once you decide on a drivetrain, there are almost identical price leaps between each step up the range.

Summary

Overall, our time living with, and driving the new Carnival was an exceptional experience underscored by supreme comfort and satisfying convenience. The years of technology upgrades and design innovations over the previous generations of Carnival have culminated in an incredibly well-thought-out car that hits the mark for which it was designed. After driving the latest Carnival, it’s no surprise that it has been consistently named Australia’s most popular people mover. The base model allows those who need eight seats an affordable entry to the market of space, safety and convenience. Meanwhile, at the top of the range, you’re absolutely spoiled with comfort and technology that completes a package that is a joy to ride in no matter which of the three rows you’re sitting in.

If you’ve got a growing family, or just looking for a car with convenience and the space to match, speak to the team at Motorama Kia today and organise a test drive of the new Kia Carnival. 

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For heavy vehicle operators who are putting in hour after hour on Australia’s roads, there’s no compromise when it comes to the importance of improving ride comfort experiences wherever possible. This is where suspension springs can dramatically improve everyday ride experiences. A critical component in how each ride feels, suspension systems also serve important purposes in improving control and safety outcomes in each heavy vehicle, with suspension springs taking the starring role. 

Suspension springs are one of those heavy vehicle truck parts that are invisible until they’re not working at their best. Working hard in the background to minimise the impact of shocks and keep weight evenly distributed, it’s only when they begin to wear or tear that the difference is noticeable. By understanding how suspension springs work, truck fleet operators and managers can enjoy the benefits of better ride comfort while avoiding unnecessary repair costs or off-road time due to suspension spring damage. 

What are suspension springs and what’s their impact on ride comfort for heavy vehicles?

Suspension springs are an integral part of suspension systems, working to absorb the force of varying road terrains and textures. Whether they’re absorbing the impact of potholes, bumps, changing and uneven surfaces, or rubble on the road, suspension springs are able to keep the majority of these forces from ever reaching the vehicle frame itself. 

They also serve a dual purpose for heavy-duty vehicles, working to distribute the vehicle’s weight as evenly as possible across its axles. This function is crucial to improving stability and safety for heavy-duty vehicles that are regularly carrying heavy or shifting loads.

Different kinds of suspension springs serve different purposes, with leaf springs, coil springs and air springs all meeting the needs of different loads and operating conditions. 

What to keep an eye out for when it comes to suspension spring maintenance

As with many truck parts, suspension springs can be supported to perform at their best through regular, preventative maintenance that’s paired with a keen eye for signs of any wear and tear. It can be easy to miss these signs since their role is one that can be taken for granted, but by learning how to recognise these symptoms early on, larger problems can be avoided down the track. Signs of potential suspension spring issues include….

• Increased ‘bounce’ during each ride, or a rougher ride experience overall
• A lean to one side or the other 
• New noises when going over bumps
• Uneven tyre wear
• Less steering responsiveness 
• Increased handling issues

These issues can not only reduce the comfort of heavy vehicle rides, but they can also lead to more significant issues overall in the durability and health of the vehicle’s suspension system. By paying close attention to early signs of suspension spring trouble, significant damage can be avoided through preventative maintenance or timely repairs.

Conclusion

Suspension springs are the invisible heavy lifters delivering improved ride comfort, safety, and vehicle performance in every trip. They play a crucial role supporting heavy vehicle operators who are navigating Australia’s rough terrains, but can only do so when they’re receiving the maintenance and repair care they need for their best function. By understanding their role and keeping note of the signs of damage or wear to look out for, fleet managers and operators can keep vehicles performing at their best, fuelled by healthy suspension springs. 

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Toyota has confirmed a major powertrain update for its flagship Land Cruiser 300 Series, announcing the arrival of a performance-oriented hybrid model set to debut in Australia in the first half of 2026. This marks the first time a Land Cruiser will feature a hybrid drivetrain, signaling a new direction for the iconic four-wheel drive while maintaining the platform’s long-standing focus on reliability and capability.

Before you ask, the answer is no: the Toyota Land Cruiser 300 Series with the one-motor hybrid powertrain will not be sold in the United States—at least not at launch. Why not? Toyota North America has focused its full-size body-on-frame efforts on the Lexus LX and the Sequoia i-Force Max, both of which already offer hybrid options. The presence of these models in the local lineup means the Land Cruiser 300 would directly compete against them in the market.

The Aussies always get the good stuff, and the upcoming Land Cruiser 300 Series variant will feature a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged petrol V6 paired with a single electric motor in a parallel hybrid configuration. Toyota says the new powertrain will deliver more power and torque than the current 3.3-liter twin-turbo diesel engine, along with smoother throttle response and enhanced performance across a range of driving conditions, including off-road environments.

Performance figures for the new model have not yet been released, but Toyota has confirmed that the hybrid setup has undergone extensive testing in extreme conditions. Development trials have taken place in desert heat and mountainous terrain, particularly in the Middle East, where durability testing has traditionally been stringent for Toyota’s off-road platforms. These trials are intended to ensure that the hybrid Land Cruiser maintains the brand’s ruggedness and off-road reliability standards.

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Engineered for Performance and Stability

At the heart of the Ultra 160LX-S Angler lies a naturally aspirated 1,498cc DOHC inline-four engine, delivering 160 horsepower. This powerplant ensures smooth acceleration and efficient fuel consumption, supported by a 21.1-gallon fuel tank for extended range

The watercraft’s deep-V hull, with a 22.5-degree deadrise, provides exceptional stability and handling, even in rough conditions. This design, inherited from Kawasaki’s performance models, ensures a comfortable and controlled ride .

Angler-Centric Features

Kawasaki has equipped the Ultra 160LX-S Angler with a suite of features tailored for fishing enthusiasts:

• Garmin Echomap UHD2 7cv Chartplotter: A 7-inch display offers real-time navigation and fish-finding capabilities, strategically positioned for easy viewing .
• Fishing Rack and Cooler: A stern-mounted rack holds a removable 14.5-quart ORCA cooler and includes four rod holders, with an additional rod holder at the bow .
• Multi-Mount Rails: Integrated rails on the ULTRA deck allow for customizable attachment of fishing accessories and gear .
• Ample Storage: With a total of 44.5 gallons of storage, including a 32.8-gallon front compartment and dual gloveboxes, there’s ample space for tackle and personal items .

Advanced Technology and Comfort

The Ultra 160LX-S Angler doesn’t compromise on comfort and technological advancements:

• Adjustable Handlebars: A 5-position tilt steering system accommodates various riding styles, enhancing control during fishing activities .
• Electronic Cruise Control: Maintains steady speeds, allowing anglers to focus on fishing without constant throttle adjustments .
• Kawasaki Smart Reverse with Deceleration (KSRD): Provides intuitive reverse operation and deceleration, aiding in maneuverability and docking .
• Ergonomic Seating: A flat bench seat design facilitates easy movement and comfort during long fishing sessions .

Distinctive Design

The Ultra 160LX-S Angler boasts a striking Crystal White and Timberline Green color scheme, complemented by bold hull lines and adventure-ready aesthetics. This design not only enhances visibility on the water but also reflects the watercraft’s rugged functionality .

Availability and Pricing

Set to release in late 2025, the Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 160LX-S Angler has an expected starting MSRP of $18,899 . This competitive pricing positions it as an accessible option for anglers seeking a versatile and high-performance fishing platform.

Conclusion

The 2025 Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 160LX-S Angler stands out as a purpose-built fishing PWC, combining Kawasaki’s engineering excellence with angler-specific features. Its blend of performance, stability, and fishing amenities makes it a compelling choice for those looking to elevate their fishing adventures.

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In the world of Australian caravanning, Rembrandt Caravans has carved out a reputation for delivering exceptional quality, thoughtful design, and unbeatable value. Proudly Australian-made and family-owned, Rembrandt blends traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation—earning the trust of travelers from Queensland to the Outback.

Built on Experience, Driven by Passion

Founded in 2021 by Josh Spasevski, Rembrandt Caravans is a family-run business rooted in over 30 years of industry experience. Every van is built in their Melbourne factory by qualified tradesmen, ensuring meticulous attention to detail and structural integrity. This commitment is backed by a comprehensive 3-year structural warranty and standout after-sales service.

A Model for Every Journey

Rembrandt offers five custom-built models designed to suit a wide range of travelers—from first-time caravaners to seasoned adventurers.

On-Road Models

• Danae: A compact yet feature-rich van available in multiple floor plans, sleeping 2–6 people. It offers great value without compromising on quality.
• Danae LX: An upgraded version of the Danae, featuring a larger frame, German Dibond cladding, and stylish interior enhancements like recessed LED lighting and colored robe panels.
• Pallas: The newest addition, boasting a full slide-out system, 4-tonne ATM rating, and expansive storage options, making it ideal for extended road trips.

Off-Road Models

• Titus: Built for rugged terrain, it features a 3700kg Tuffride independent coil spring suspension, twin shock absorbers, 400W solar panels, and a 200Ah lithium battery.
• Nightwatch: The flagship off-road model, equipped with a 4400kg-rated Tuffride auto-leveling airbag suspension, 300Ah lithium battery, and a compressor fridge, ensuring comfort in the most remote locations.

Why Choose Rembrandt?

• Customisation: Tailor your caravan with floor plans ranging from 17ft to 24ft, various bunk configurations, and suspension options to suit your travel needs.
• Quality Materials: Utilizing premium-grade materials like German Dibond cladding and Meranti framing, each caravan is built to last.
• Customer-Centric Approach: From design to delivery, Rembrandt keeps the customer at the forefront, offering personalized service and support.

Start Your Journey Today

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a cross-country adventure, Rembrandt Caravans offers a model to suit your lifestyle. Visit rembrandtcaravans.com.au to explore their range, find a dealer near you, or request a personalized quote.

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Applicants who have a low credit score—or scores that fall within the poor credit score range—usually have trouble qualifying for personal or business car loans without a co-signer. If you wish to get a finance solution for bad credit car loan then you are at the right place. Your credit score is important if you want to buy a house, need a car loan, or are applying for a personal loan. Having a bad credit score can affect you by limiting your borrowing potential and making you appear less creditworthy to lenders. So, what is it and how can you get a bad credit car loan?

Below, we’ll discuss

• What a bad credit score is
• How to calculate if you have bad credit?
• Factors That Cause a Bad Credit Score
• Risks of Having a Bad Credit Score
• How to Improve a Bad Credit Score
• How to qualify for a car loan with bad credit
• Car Loan Finance that will get you on the road again

What is a bad credit score?

The following is the data from the three of the major credit bureaus in Australia that offer credit reporting services, and what they consider to be a bad or low credit score.

For Experian, a score between 0 to 549 is considered ‘below average’, and 550 to 624 is considered ‘fair’.

Source: Experian

For Illion, a score between 0 to 549 is considered ‘below average’, and 550 to 624 is considered ‘fair’.

Source: Illion

For Equifax, a score between 0 to 549 is considered ‘below average’, and 550 to 624 is considered ‘fair’.

Source: Equifax

How to calculate if you have bad credit?

In order to calculate your credit score, you need to request a copy of your credit report from one of Australia’s three credit bureaus. Contact these credit reporting agencies for your free credit report:

1. Experian: 1300 783 684
2. Illion: 132 333
3. Equifax: 138 332

Since different agencies can hold different information, you may have a credit report with more than one agency. Once you’ve got your credit report, you’ll be able to see where any slip-ups in the past have happened. Sometimes, you’re able to dispute these. Read below to learn how your credit score is calculated.

For example,

They will calculate:

• the amount of money you’ve borrowed
• the number of credit applications you’ve made
• whether you pay on time

Depending on the credit reporting agency, your score will be between zero and either 1,000 or 1,200. A higher score means the lender will consider you less risky. This could mean getting a better deal and saving money. A lower score will affect your ability to get a loan.

Alternatively, if you find the online enquiry procedure a little daunting, contact a financial advisor who can share with you your credit score details and also help you work on ways to improve it.

Get in Touch With Us For Obligation Free Advice today!

Factors That Cause a Bad Credit Score:

• Zero or Minimal credit history. If you have not maintained a long credit history, your credit score is likely to be lower than average.
• High credit utilization. The credit utilization ratio measures the percentage of credit you use versus your available credit. Because it makes up 30% of your credit score, using too much of your available credit can lower your credit score.
• Late payments. Your payment history accounts for 35% of your credit score so it’s crucial to make on-time payments. If you don’t pay your bills on time and they become 30-days past due, your creditor may report the late payment to one of the three major credit bureaus— Experian, Illion or Equifax.
• Collections.  A collection can cause a significant drop in your credit score, and you may have to wait up to seven years for it to be removed from your report. When you default on a credit obligation, your original creditor may sell your debt to a debt collector or collection agency. After your debt is sent to collections, it’s usually reported to the credit bureaus. A collection can cause a significant drop in your credit score, and you may have to wait up to seven years for it to be removed from your report.
• Bankruptcy. It can negatively affect your credit score for up to 10 years.

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The Number 1 Question – What is your Interest Rate ?

Listed below is a simple & quick run-down on interest rates when it comes to purchasing your next vehicle.

People always ask me, “so what are your rates”? My bank/finance company told me on the phone that I will get 4.25% !!

Some companies advertise rates which are often quite far removed from what they can actually offer.

We have two main variable factors and when those two factors intersect that gives us the rate. The first variable is the Asset Class and the second is the Client Profile so let’s have a brief look at each.

ASSET CLASS – This means the quality of the asset, the speed of which the lender is able to get out of the asset if the loan defaults, the estimated loss the lender is likely to suffer if the asset is auctioned off.

CLIENT PROFILE – The client profile means the risk assessment on the lend correlated to the client’s profile, so has the client been in consistent employment, do they have comparable credit (Other loans), does the client have any blemishes on their credit file or is it clear? Is this client asset-backed with a property or are they renting? Can the client afford to pay the loan?

As you can see there are several factors that go into consideration when arriving at the interest rate on offer for each client looking to purchase a vehicle. There are some general rules of the game that are worth noting.

Firstly, the older the vehicle in general the higher the rate is going to be, secondly if you’re asset-backed and have a mortgage then most of the time the lender will require NO deposit & rates are often slightly cheaper.

In summary, rates vary a lot depending on the asset and the client profile and it’s about negotiating the best rate and term  we can by pitching the deal to credit in a strong light accompanied by a range of supporting documents. A good broker will ask you a lot of questions, this is not because they are nosey, it is because the more information they have, the stronger they can make your profile – The stronger your profile is, the less risk deemed from the lender, the better your deal will be.

When we submit clients to credit we study profile in absolute detail and make sure that the credit analyst understands why the client is purchasing the asset and is in agreeance that it’s going to be a good financial decision to approve the loan.

 This comes down to experience, tenacity and the desire to see our clients succeed. if you would like us to get you across the line or even just get a quote and plan for the acquisition of a future vehicle.
please don’t hesitate to call us on 1300 799225 or Apply Online www.getthatcarloan.com.au

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What Comprehensive Credit Reporting means for you and your credit score

A new fairer system of credit reporting is being rolled out across Australia called Comprehensive Credit Reporting.
In the latest Federal Budget you may have heard the Treasurer Scott Morrison mention the changes to credit reporting, but if you’re like us you probably didn’t take any notice. So what is Comprehensive Credit Reporting and why should you care?
In March 2014, changes were put in place to start rolling-out a fairer credit reporting system known as Comprehensive Credit Reporting. Credit reports and credit scores before these changes had limited data and only used ‘negative data’ to assess your credit-worthiness – how well you manage your credit commitments. This data would typically include information such as how many credit enquiries you have made or how many defaults you have.
Comprehensive Credit Reporting introduces more data that reflects positive behaviour.  The new system now includes:
Credit account history: active or opened accounts, the date when you opened an account, the date when you closed an account and the maximum amount of credit available under each active account. It’ll also include basic information about each account, such as the T&Cs and the name of the credit provider the account is with.
Repayment history: your loan repayment history over a period of 2 years including any late or defaulted repayments you may have received and the date you paid the default in full.

So why is Comprehensive Credit Reporting better for me?
You have more power to influence your credit score
Having positive data in your credit file is a great step forward for Australian consumers as it paints a fuller picture of you, the borrower. The more data recorded on your credit report gives you greater power to positively impact your credit score. You can also build a credit history much faster.
“You have more power to influence your credit score.”

More competition & better deals
As more data becomes available, lenders will have more information to determine your credit worthiness. This will ultimately drive market competition and result in lenders offering a better deal based on your unique circumstances. In short you could be rewarded for a good credit score with a lower interest rate.
While these changes are still taking place in the Australian financial market, it is not an entirely new concept. Comprehensive Credit Reporting is already common practice in the United States and the United Kingdom, we are simply catching up.

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The 10th-generation Honda Civic in general has its detractors and cheerleaders. Handsome from most angles, controversial in others, but most definitely bold and assuredly a departure from where we’ve seen Honda tread before.
In ‘hatch’ form, things take a slight turn to the obtuse, with the rear end tapered to give it some coupe-esque hints. Honda decided this was to be the one and only shape by which the world would see their newest (FK8) Type R.
There’s a lot of aero on display here, with an assortment of wings, scoops, and ducts to channel the air just so around the car – some to minimise drag, others to generate meaningful amounts of downforce. That fixed rear spoiler is responsible for a lot of it, and not just there to take the edge off that roofline profile.
It’s all quite cohesive, though, and looks purposeful without quite falling off the edge into being overly ostentatious. A bright red logo replaces typical Honda badge to signify this as a performance model, and that theme is taken to highlight much of the car’s edges and interior trim. That said, the Type R now relegates all its competitors to looking a little bland by comparison unless an outrageous paint option is selected.
The Type R looks, like most other ‘mega’ hatches, more sedate in colours like black, though this is only mildly true of the Honda as it still retains much of its menace thanks to that red shade tinging its perimeter and huge 20-inch wheels.

Engine and Drivetrain

This is arguably the largest departure from the how the Type R used to operate. High-revving VTEC engines were the main draw of previous generation cars, and a large part of why they were bought over its increasing number of turbocharged rivals.
However, Honda had to concede that there would be no way to keep naturally aspirated high-revving engines at parity with the performance expected of modern day performance hatches while meeting ever-stricter emissions regulations, especially since this model was planned from the start to be sold in nearly all markets the Japanese marque had reach.
Capacity stands at a familiar 2.0-litres, divided between four cylinders, but with the aid of variable geometry turbochargers and high flow induction, power jumps to 228kW and 400Nm available from 2,500rpm. The downside, of course, is that the redline drops to a slightly more modest 7,200rpm.
There’s plenty of upsides, though, not least of which how far more everyday usable it makes the Civic Type R as a package. Despite having just two driven wheels in a field becoming exclusively all-wheel driven, some clever traction management and front differential wizardry means that 100km/h arrives from rest in 5.8 seconds, provided, of course, one is proficient at rowing through the ratios as the car only comes with a 6-speed manual transmission.
The gearbox itself is a peach, smooth and precise, so that shouldn’t be any impediment practice cannot remedy. The engine, meanwhile, has a happy habit of not feeling turbocharged. Power is delivered in a very linear fashion, but the boost is tuned such to be served in increasing intensity. Take your mind off what’s under the bonnet, and you could almost mistake it for a very powerful high-revver.
Honda has had more experience to massage this 2.0-litre unit as it’s essentially the same version used in the previous Civic Type R, the criminally short-lived FK2. Here it develops around 7kW more power, though, courtesy of a revised exhaust and extractor system. Fuel consumption, if you’re into that kinda thing, is sits at a claimed 8.8-litres/100km on a combined cycle.

Interior

The red and black blend of textured fabric and suede-like carbon back bucket seats don’t look particularly comfortable but actually do offer a good amount of support even over some longer distances. However, it does set the tone immediately about what to expect from the rest of the cabin: plenty of red and black.
Over the standard Civic and even the older FK2 Type R, this version’s driver H point is noticeably lower, giving the whole experience a more driver-oriented feel that’s almost spot-on, aligning nicely with the pedals gear shift lever that boasts a beautiful machined aluminium sphere knob. There’s the same level of interior quality as to be found on any normal Civic, and that’s a good thing, with a good amount of soft touch points, commendable ergonomics, and a general solidity to the construction.
Elsewhere faux leather is used in the trim as well as a reappearance of that suede-like Alcantara (but not quite) material, and both are used well to add an air of class to temper the general aggressive aura. However, though this is a good cabin to be in and more than ably serves its purpose as an exciting cockpit, much more premium surroundings can be found in the Germans, such as the AMG A45 and Golf R in particular.

Behind The Wheel

Although Honda might have been inclined to have the Civic Type R’s dynamics be a little more approachable this time around, the changes they’ve made don’t seem to greatly corroborate this theory. As previously indicated, this is very much an analogue machine, quite an amount more so than its closest competition.
While steering is very sharp, the wheel itself does need quite a bit of shove to get rotating at lower speeds, needing drivers to be more deliberate in their inputs, also because the rack is rather quick from lock to lock.
On most roads, the ride is manageable but most definitely on the firm side, even with the dampers set to their softest setting. This translates into greater composure at higher speeds, which is where Honda is betting you’ll keep the Type R most of the time.
Once there, the car is remarkably nimble and rewarding, with a seemingly unyielding front end and unrelenting grip if using an appropriate cornering speed to have the aerodynamics kick in. Apply the throttle too liberally out of the corner, though, and its front-driven nature does have the car push wide, but keeping the driver well informed of the proceedings for a recovery.
Given that the Type R is quite a bit lighter than its rivals, heavy braking doesn’t get it nearly as unsettled as is often the case, and also means that the discs can take more abuse before succumbing to fade. Clearly, though, to experience its full potential, you’ll need a track as it was plainly made to shine there most of all, which is why, upon its launch, it took the crown as the fastest front-drive car to ever lap the Nurburgring.

The Honda Civic Type R, as a variant, has not been rated by ANCAP, but considering the standard hatch has been awarded the 5-star seal, there’s good reason to believe its not far off, especially since its safety features read identically to most well-specified standard car.
There’s a full spread of front, side, and full-length curtain airbags, forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking (AEB), lane departure warning, lane keep assist, reversing camera, front/rear parking sensors, and even adaptive cruise control – probably for that uneventful drive back from the circuit.
Elsewhere the Type R receives the same 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system as the rest of its range, running the Android-based interface that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and attached to a 160W speaker array with 4 woofers and 4 tweeters.
Despite being hot hatch, the digital instrument cluster is retained here as well. It’s as responsive as ever and conveys information well, even in more demanding scenarios, and its graphics do change to red with a helpfully large tachometer when the +R drive mode is selected.
Verdict

The Civic Type R still holds its head high as something of a people’s hero, offering the kind of performance and cornering poise that manufacturers typically charge a markedly higher price for. In its 4th-generation, it has also managed to adapt to the onset of turbocharging and the more versatile nature of hot hatches without sacrificing much of its initial uniqueness.
Dynamically, the Type R is one of the most characterful machines of its time and circumstance. The labour poured into linking the various chassis and aerodynamic strengths to make up for the lack of a rear-driven axle and its departure from natural aspiration is evident and worthy of great praise.
And to the hot hatch connoisseur, all this seemingly single-minded focus should add to the car’s overall appeal. But dig deeper and there’s a serviceable everyday driver hiding beyond the polarising bodywork and shamelessly red accents. It’s a Civic, after all, and as such still offers plenty of cabin space, cargo capacity, and *ahem* reliability.

The post 2018 Honda Civic Type R – Review appeared first on Get That Loan.

So let’s start with the basics…
What does ‘Autonomy’ mean?
The word is defined as ‘independence or freedom… of will’. In the automotive context it refers to cars that can essentially ‘think’ for themselves and drive with less human input (or no input at all) than conventional cars.
How does the technology work?
At its most basic level an autonomous car features computer processors to regulate the major aspects of a vehicle’s operation and sensors to feed information to the computers. The processors monitor input from onboard cameras, radar and lidar, global positioning data (from the car’s satellite navigation system) and other sensors. The computers then send instructions to electro/mechanical devices that control steering, braking, acceleration, etc…

Can the technology be retrofitted to older cars?
I AWN… To be autonomous, a car must be electric in almost every possible way. Electric power steering can be computer operated, a traditional hydraulic or manual set-up can’t (or not easily, at least). Braking systems need electronic systems to regulate the braking. Unlike steering, brakes have been electronically controlled (even though the basic system is hydraulic) since anti-lock braking became mandatory. The engine management system has to be electronic for the powertrain to respond at the whim of a computer. The list goes on…

This is all bleeding-edge stuff that can’t be trusted.
Not really. Cameras have no moving parts, they don’t go wrong unless the lens is obscured by fog, rainwater or dirt. When that happens, the system will post an alert to the driver, to take control. And radar cuts through the rain and fog anyway.
The processors have been in constant development since the early days of anti-lock braking in the late 1970s. Repurposing these processors to handle reverse parking for you was first proposed decades ago and is now commonplace.
Ultrasonic sensors at the front, rear and even the sides of the car ensure it’s always parked neat and tidy, at a sensible distance from obstacles. That technology is nearly two decades old, even in Australia. Linking those sensors to an autonomous guidance system was the original ‘no brainer’.
From backing a car into a parking spot (with even more sophisticated systems in the works to handle brakes and throttle as well) to keeping a car on track around the suburbs and on freeways is the automotive equivalent of a hop, skip and jump.
The technology is available right now; only liability issues and legislation are holding back cars that can drive you hundreds of kilometres to a destination.

How will a car know where to go?
The autonomous car will be programmed by the driver through the satellite navigation system, but future cars are anticipated to be ‘summoned’ (which is Tesla’s term) to a specific location by the ‘driver’ (or the vehicle user, to be more precise) sending an instruction over the internet or by phone.
Even now, the technology exists for a smart vehicle to park itself in tight spots, accepting instructions from a WiFi-enabled remote key.

When will autonomous cars reach the market?
In one sense, they’re already here. The automotive industry has established ‘levels’ of autonomy, and level-one cars are on the roads right now. They work and they’re legal.
The technology has so far proved itself to be robust and reliable. And even if it becomes incapable of seeing a car in front – due to a build-up of road grime on a lens, for example – it will inform the driver accordingly. To date, there have been no credible local reports of a car crash resulting from an ‘autonomous’ vehicle malfunction.
So what are these levels then?
BMW Australia CEO Marc Werner recently explained in layman’s terms what the five levels of autonomy are.

Level one – ‘feet off’
This is adaptive cruise control that will bring a car to a complete stop behind another vehicle – “feet off,” in Werner’s own words. It’s already available on prestige and near-prestige cars and employs the same hardware as that new ‘must have’ for the OH&S set, Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB).

Level two – ‘hands off’
This “is what we launched with 7 Series,” Werner explained.
A level-two car is one that will steer itself, as well as brake and accelerate. It uses existing technology suites such as ‘Lane Keep Assist’, ‘Blind Spot Monitoring’ and adaptive cruise control/autonomous braking to maintain a safe distance from the car in front and hold steady in a lane on a freeway.

Level three – ‘eyes off’
The car requires reduced supervision by the driver. Level two cars currently demand you hold the wheel at typically 15-30sec intervals. With level-three cars you needn’t be as observant. Plug the destination into the satellite navigation and leave the car to take you there. Pull out the smartphone to check your emails, play ‘Frogger’ or write your next magnum opus; none of it matters – until the car informs you that it can’t cope with the drug-crazed road rager who has just sideswiped you.
“The next big step – this is what the engineers are actually working on at the moment – is called ‘level three’. Level three is basically taking the eyes off the road, which is frightening, if you think about it… but it works,” says Werner.
BMW has been testing level-three cars in Europe, Werner revealed.

Level four –’mind off’
“You can do whatever you want to do…” says Werner. Technology at this level will literally permit the ‘driver’ to go to sleep, pass out drunk or recline the seat to reduce the blood loss on the way to hospital. But at the end of the day the car remains ultimately subordinate to a human in the driver’s seat.

Werner believes this technology will begin to be viable in the next decade.
In essence, the L5 autonomous car can be summoned across the country, driving all the way from Perth to Sydney to pick you up at the airport (?). Tesla has already predicted this will happen sooner rather than later, but hasn’t explained how the car will refuel/recharge itself on such a long journey.
Presumably that is one of the KPIs.

The post FAQs: Autonomy and what it means to you appeared first on Get That Loan.