Apr 29, 2015 No. 774

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Toyota begins production of final Aussie Camry ahead of 2017 plant shutdownBy TIM NICHOLSON

TOYOTA’S last Australian-built Camry was officially unveiled at a line-off ceremony at its Altona plant in Melbourne yesterday, with the heavily modified mid-size sedan set to see the facility out until it is decommissioned at the end of 2017.

A mid-life update for the current seventh-generation model that went on sale in late 2011, the latest Camry – known internally as ‘Big Minor Change’ – arrives in showrooms next month and is expected to maintain its dominance in the increasingly competitive medium-car segment.

Toyota Australia expects to produce about 90,000 Camrys in Australia for domestic and export markets each year between now and the end of manufacturing in 2017.

In terms of a daily production-line rate, this equates to approximately 420 units per day.

An estimated 70 per cent of vehicles built at Altona will be sent offshore to the Middle East, New Zealand, South Pacific Islands and an intriguing new territory for the brand, Thailand, which is widely tipped to take over production from the Australian operation.

Toyota Australia president Dave Buttner said the company was hopeful that the 90,000 annual production rate could be maintained and highlighted the many Australian suppliers it needed to produce the car, which is said to have 65 per cent local content.

“That’s certainly our hope,” he said. “We are pitching ourselves at 90,000 a year for the next three years. And that’s

very important to our local suppliers. We need them to stay the journey with us and they need a certain volume to recoup their fixed costs.

“And in discussions with them we believe that is an appropriate volume and a volume we can maintain for the next three years.”

Overall costs for the development of the vehicle was $109 million, with $23.6 million coming from the federal government and an undisclosed figure derived from the Victorian state government.

Continued next page

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Continued from previous pageMr Buttner said the line-off ceremony

was a bittersweet moment for staff and management – 2500 jobs will be directly lost as a result of the factory closure – and added that while he would like to keep building cars in Australia, too many factors counted against it.

“Would we like to continue as a manufacturer? Of course we would. We employ a large number of people that make a significant contribution to the Australian economy,” he said.

“Naturally we would have liked to continue on that journey. But a whole host of factors at the same time meant we couldn’t do that.”

Popular with private buyers but a favourite of fleets, the Camry is the best-selling mid-sizer in Australia by a huge margin, shifting 22,044 units locally last year for a 44.5 per cent market share in its segment, with its closest competitor, the Mazda6, finding

5883 homes in the same period.It was also the second-best-selling

Australian-built car in 2014 behind the Holden Commodore, which hit 30,203 units last year.

So far this year, the Camry, which is in run-out, has sold 5219 units, representing a 4.7 per cent increase over the same period last year.

Mr Buttner said he was confident the new Camry would sustain its high volumes in Australia, but stopped short of discussing sales targets.

“We will talk to our dealers in the next couple of weeks when we have our final launch of our product to talk about volume expectations. But we believe when you look at the vehicle – all new panels, a whole new shape – it is indeed a new-look Camry, so we expect it to be very successful on the domestic market.”

Mr Buttner said it was critical for the company to maintain the Camry nameplate beyond 2017, given the strong brand recognition from its private and business buyers.

“We were very keen to maintain the Camry name. Whether you are a private

buyer or a fleet buyer, in your whole-of-life cost of the vehicle, I think the biggest asset you have is the residual value of the vehicle,” he said.

“So if there is no continuity, that doesn’t instil confidence in you as either a private buyer, or as a fleet customer or a government buyer. Our commitment to continuing the brand name, albeit in imported capacity, means hopefully we have given confidence to those fleets.

“We went out in February last year on the back of the announcement of the closure, we went the next day to all of our big fleet customers across Australia, we spoke to each and every one about our intention to continue the brand name to hopefully give them that ongoing confidence that they can still buy Camry and know that the brand will be here for the long haul.”

When asked if he expected fleet sales of the Camry to contract after 2017, Mr Buttner said there had been no indication from business buyers that they would pull away from the brand.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

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Nissan Australia’s castingplant secure beyond 2020with ongoing global work

By BYRON MATHIOUDAKISNISSAN’S casting plant in Australia has secured a number of lucrative in-house company contracts stretching into the next decade, involving current and future models for the main Renault-Nissan Alliance brands across the globe.

Additionally, with the Melbourne-based operations now running at near capacity, Nissan Casting Australia (NCA) is hiring more staff to cope with the increased demand for its high-pressure die-cast aluminium vehicle components.

The Dandenong plant has been running three shifts a day, seven days a week, over the past six months, and will continue to do so “for the foreseeable future”.

Nissan Australia managing director and CEO Richard Emery said last week that the additional contract work was proof that the local automotive manufacturing industry will not die with the closure of Ford, Holden and Toyota’s plants in the next two years.

“The Nissan Casting Australia plant is uniquely placed in this country as one of a few fully integrated OEM (original equipment manufacturer) companies in Australia, and probably one of the only ones from after 2017,” he said.

“Our manufacturing business keeps

going from strength to strength. Nissan Casting Australia continues to run close to capacity, to satisfy global demand for what we manufacture here. There has been some recent exciting developments

with our casting plant. “Put simply, Nissan Casting

Australia is in a very strong place, working three shifts up to seven days a week to meet Nissan’s growing demand for our high-pressure die-cast parts.

“Last year, we exported more than two million castings to

Renault-Nissan Alliance plants across the world. Some people think that automotive manufacturing in Australia is dead. I can tell you it’s alive and well here at Nissan Australia, and it will be here for many more years to come.”

Involving mostly oil pans, gearbox housings, final drive housings and electric vehicle motor parts, the Australian-manufactured components are currently found in six imported vehicles – Nissan’s Leaf, Qashqai,

X-Trail and Pathfinder, as well as the Renault Koleos and Infiniti Q50 – with a host of other international-market models under these brands as well as Dacia and Datsun.

As some are still in development, the contracts will serve still-secret models with lifecycles running well beyond 2020.

Established in 1982 when Nissan was building cars in Australia (local production ceased in October 1992), the casting operation employs more than 160 staff and covers high-pressure die-casting, low-pressure die-casting, as well as machine, component assembly and accessories manufacturing.

Export markets include Japan, the United States, United Kingdom, South Korea and Mexico. Referring to the business as “quietly flourishing”, NCA managing director Peter Jones said there are currently 30 job vacancies to help meet international demand.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERENissan rejigs Juke – page 20

Richard Emery

‘From strength to strength’

Apr 29, 2015 Page 4

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China’s Great Wall pullsout all stops in creatingH6 Coupe mid-size SUV

Haval rises to challenge

By RON HAMMERTON in BEIJINGEMBLAZONED across the front wall of Great Wall Motors’ Haval-brand SUV factories in China is the slogan ‘Improving Little By Little Every Day’.

But if the all-new Haval H6 Coupe medium SUV is any guide, the slogan could read ‘Improving In Leaps And Bounds By The Minute’.

Built on an all-new monocoque platform with fully independent suspension and turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol and diesel engines, the H6 Coupe will be the last but newest of four Haval models to land in Australia this year under the new nameplate in a rollout starting in June.

With the same external dimensions as the top-selling Mazda CX-5 – give or take a few millimetres – the H6 Coupe is the result of a concerted effort by China’s biggest independent motor company to meet western vehicle-makers head-on in the biggest SUV market segment.

Chastened after struggling to find more than a toehold against the established global giants outside China,

GWM has swallowed its pride and reinvented itself as an SUV brand under the Haval moniker, spending billions of dollars on new factories, research and design facilities and an army of well-credentialed western talent to mastermind the remake.

And in typical 21st century Chinese style, the effort has been both stunning in its size and pace.

The process has already proved a massive success in China in just a few years, with Haval products overtaking western-engineered vehicles such as the Volkswagen Tiguan, Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V in domestic sales. And this is in a land where domestic private consumers have invariably shown a pronounced leaning towards proven foreign brands.

Now the real test is about to start, with Haval exports underway to four markets – Australia, Russia, South Africa and South America – where GWM executives are hoping Haval can overcome Great Wall’s less-than-prestigious image among consumers.

If your idea of a Great Wall-produced SUV is the old-school X240 with a dated and sluggish Mitsubishi engine,

truck chassis, hit-and-miss quality and a low NCAP safety rating, you might have to think again.

“All new” is a vastly overworked term in the motor industry, but the Haval H6 Coupe is just that when compared with anything previously sold by a Chinese company in this market.

It even gets a completely new architecture compared with the current Haval H6 wagon – China’s top-selling SUV – that itself is fairly sophisticated and not so old. Now, with a MacPherson strut front end and double-wishbone rear suspension, the latest H6 variant looks to be a match for similar mid-size SUVs from big-name western companies.

Power-wise, it is not shamed either. The surprisingly smooth 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine bangs out 145kW of power and 315Nm of torque, shading the CX-5’s normally aspirated 2.0-litre petrol unit, at 114kW and 200Nm, and even hosing the bigger 2.5-litre Mazda engine (138Nm/250Nm).

A four-cylinder turbo-diesel will also be available, with 120kW and 350Nm – a little down on the CX-5’s 2.2-litre diesel that makes 129kW/420Nm.

Continued next page

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Haval rises to challengeContinued from previous page

And unlike some contenders in this segment, the diesel will be available with a six-speed automatic transmission right from the outset. Front-wheel drive will be standard, with all-wheel drive available for an extra $3000.

While a dual-clutch six-speed automatic transmission will be optional on the petrol variants for $2000 extra in Australia when the H6 Coupe lands here around Christmas, only the six-speed manual-equipped version was available to us when we visited Haval’s new proving ground to try its latest models on a drive that involved little more than an acceleration test with a slight bend and tight loop turn at the other end.

With H6 Coupe, the first thing that stands out is the low roofline – hence the coupe name – that screams Range Rover Evoque. However, Haval would not be the first company to copy a styling idea – just look at all the brands copying Mercedes-Benz’s CLS and BMW’s X6.

Our drive got off to an impressive start when the front tyres issued a distinct chirp as we grabbed second gear before a little turbo-lag hesitation delayed proceedings for a split second. Then the turbocharger came on song and the H6 Coupe took off down the

strip, through the gears with reasonable gusto.

We had no complaints about either the gear-change or the clutch action, and the overall performance impression was on par with its mainly Japanese and Korean rivals such as the CX-5, RAV4, Subaru’s Forester, Nissan’s X-Trail, Hyundai’s Tucson and the Kia Sportage.

Considering that the vehicle we drove had not been run in – it was literally directly off the production line, complete with all the plastic protection wrapping – and was loaded with four men, the effort is all the more impressive.

Noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) suppression seemed laudable, from both the powertrain and the body and chassis on a rough section of track built for such test purposes.

With just one high-speed corner and a slow turn at the end, we did not get much of an opportunity to make a

judgement on the handling, but nothing horrible leapt out at us, except perhaps for a slightly jiggly ride that might be addressed by Haval Australia’s

proposed local suspension tuning program. On the whole, it felt like a nicely resolved package. And speaking of nicely

resolved, consensus among visiting journalists was that the H6 Coupe’s interior design was one of the best we have seen in the

class, starting with comfortable seats and a stylish but completely functional layout, and continuing with wide use of high-quality, soft-touch materials – including leather-trimmed seats on all specifications – and large rear-seat acreage.

Only the leather-clad steering wheel felt a little hard to the touch, but at least it had all the usual cruise control, audio and phone buttons in a logical spread.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERESmall Haval H2 thinks big – next page

2.0 GDI turbo-petrol

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WHEN YOU'RE SEEKING KEY STAFF THINK...

Chinese crossover will come here fully loaded to win hearts and minds

Small Haval H2 thinks big

By RON HAMMERTON in BEIJINGGREAT WALL’S burgeoning Haval SUV brand has equipped its new compact H2 with a luxury-car-style multi-link rear suspension and other high-end technologies as its sets out to gain traction in export markets, including Australia.

The Nissan Qashqai-sized H2 will be one of two Chinese-made Haval models to kick off the upmarket Great Wall Motors SUV brand’s Australian launch in June, together with the one-size-bigger H8.

The range will be fleshed out by the all-terrain H9 flagship in July and mid-sized urban H6 Coupe in December or January, with at least two more models – the next-generation H1 mini SUV and newly released H7 hybrid – expected to follow over the next year or so.

While China’s top-selling SUV brand is owned by Great Wall, the Haval range will attempt to carve out a more esteemed position in the Australian marketplace than the Great Wall ute range.

And the factory-owned Australian arm will not hide its Chinese origins,

proudly displaying its “China’s No.1 SUV brand” slogan in communications.

The H2 has been on the market in China only a matter of months, and has already soared to number-three position in SUV sales, two spots behind its bigger sibling, the market-leading Haval H6.

H2 pricing has not yet been set for Australia, but the lower of two specifications planned for H2 is expected to kick off at about $23,000-$24,000 for the 4x2 version with a six-speed manual gearbox, rising to the high $20,000s for the upper 4x2 spec.

A dual-clutch six-speed automatic transmission adds $2000, with a 4x4 drivetrain costing $3000.

The pricing is higher than some rivals such as the Holden Trax and Ford EcoSport, but once equipment and engineering sophistication is taken into account, the H2 gets more interesting.

Pitched as a premium compact SUV, H2 will come loaded with upmarket items such as ambient lighting in a choice of colours, rear parking sensors, sunroof, heated seats, rearview camera, sat-nav, electric parking brake, keyless start and climate control on all variants,

as well as surprisingly sophisticated underpinnings such as multi-link rear suspension and – theoretically – a five-star crash safety rating.

Armed with a modern in-house-developed turbocharged 1.5-litre direct-injection engine producing 110kW of power and 210Nm of torque, the H2 is – on paper at least – keeping right up with the Japanese and Korean Joneses that it plans to emulate.

The H2 test car that we sampled in a teaser drive at Haval’s factory in Tianjin, between Shanghai and Beijing, was satisfactory rather than spirited.

The test area was so confined that we could not even get out of second gear in the manual-equipped car that also was so new it still had the protective plastic on the seats, so judgement is best reserved for a proper spin once the Australian-spec version lands in a few months.

Continued next page

Apr 29, 2015 Page 7

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H2 thinks big

Continued from previous page We can tell you this: the engine fell

in a torque-lag hole on the up-change before gathering a head of steam again.

The dual-clutch transmission that will arrive in Australian showrooms in July might help to iron out that wrinkle by keeping the engine better on the boil, but as we did not get to sample that version we can only speculate.

And ditto for the ride and handling, as the best we could manage was about 60km/h on a billiard-table-smooth paved test area for newly built cars. That’s sad, as we would have liked to fully stretch the all-independent suspension

that, apart from the multi-link rear, has MacPherson struts up front.

Superficially, the H2’s two biggest pluses are its handsome styling inside and out, and its spacious interior that is helped by a generous 1814mm body width.

Soft-touch plastics and leather abound, balanced with a mix of piano black and metallic finishes that add bling in a cultured way. The doors are light but shut with a satisfying thunk.

Rear-seat legroom is particularly generous – better than some mid-size sedans – with adequate width and headroom for two big adults or three kids. The rear seat folds 60/40 too.

On the downside, entry and exit from the back seat is a little tight, and the luggage area is a touch cramped, but that is partly because the raised boot floor accommodates a full-sized spare wheel underneath.

FULL STORY: CLICK HEREHaval set to plug in – next page

By RON HAMMERTON in BEIJINGAUSTRALIAN auto industry debutante Haval will offer customers a choice of up to 10,000 combinations of specification, colour and trim – without extra cost – on its new H2 compact SUV when the brand opens for local business in June.

Customer personalisation will be a key plank of the sales pitch for the 1.5-litre turbocharged H2, at least after the initial four-month launch phase during which Haval Australia plans to keep it simple for dealers and customers alike with a more limited range.

Euro-style two-tone cars – such as red with a black roof – will be available, matched with complementary two-tone interiors.

The customer will be able to “build” their car on a Haval internet microsite, order it via their dealer and sit back and await delivery direct from the Haval factory, with periodic updates on progress via the web.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

Personalisation a keyplank in H2 sales pitch

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Powerful 263kW plug-inhybrid H7 SUV on cards for launch here by 2017

Haval set to plug in

By RON HAMMERTON in BEIJINGCHINESE SUV specialist Haval is planning to introduce a mid-sized plug-in hybrid SUV to Australia by 2017, within two years of Haval’s planned entry to the local market with its range of petrol and diesel-powered vehicles from June this year.

The company says its primary focus is on plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) for future fuel-saving vehicles, but it is also working on full-electric vehicles at its spanking new research, development and design centre in a

$A1.2 billion development at its home city of Baoding, south-west of Beijing.

The giveaway for EVs is a display in China of prototype carbon-fibre reinforced plastic battery casings among Haval’s latest technologies. The items include a large battery case, suitable for under-floor mounting in an all-electric vehicle.

The plug-in hybrid – potentially a competitor for Mitsubishi’s Outlander PHEV – has already been publicly announced in China. It is expected to make its Haval debut in the H7 that has just been launched on the domestic market in its 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol form.

The H7 is likely to be the first

electrified vehicle from Haval in a country that is rushing towards plug-in power as major cities such as Beijing restrict fossil-fuel vehicles.

Although Haval is owned by China’s biggest independent motor company, Great Wall Motors, Haval has its own engineering, research and vehicle development centre where it focuses on its range of new-generation SUVs being developed by a design team led by former BMW designer Pierre Leclercq – best known for penning the X5 and X6 range – and an international engineering squadron.

FULL STORY: CLICK HEREGreat Wall cars to come – next pageH7 at 2015 Shanghai show

GWM/Haval PHEV powertrain at 2012 Beijing motor show

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SUVs the focus now butpassenger car line-up toreceive overhaul in time

Great Wall cars to come

By RON HAMMERTON in BEIJINGGREAT Wall Motors’ (GWM) unremarkable passenger car line-up is said to be next on the hit list for improvement by the company’s billionaire part-owner and chairman Wei Jianjun, who has wrought a complete overhaul of its SUV range under the Haval brand in recent years.

While Haval was ranked number one in Chinese SUV sales in 2014, thanks to all-new models built to western standards of design and engineering, Great Wall’s passenger car sales ranking slipped to 26th place.

This year, sales of GWM’s three-model passenger car line-up have slipped again, while Haval has consolidated its number-one ranking with sales soaring 53 per cent year-on-

year, thanks to newly released models such as the compact H2 and large H9 flagship.

These days, SUVs account for 80 per cent of GWM sales, and the division has been the biggest driver in the company’s handsome profits that have ballooned by 17.6 per cent in the first quarter of 2015.

The Haval line-up is destined for Australia this year under a new factory-owned distribution company based in Melbourne, but passenger cars are off the agenda until Chairman Wei turns his gaze to a similar revolution on the smaller vehicles that currently comprise the C20R mini crossover hatch, C30 light sedan and one-size-larger C50.

The C30 and C50 both date from 2010, and are powered by 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol four-cylinder engines with 78kW and 98kW of

power respectively.Last year, the C30 was China’s 73rd

best-selling passenger sedan, while the C50 came in 91st.

For now, GWM is continuing its massive investment in Haval that includes at least three new models this year, including the all-new H6 Coupe that was shown at the Shanghai motor show last week and a revamped Ford Territory-sized H8.

The new Haval range is only now being introduced into export markets, with Australia among the first countries to get the SUVs, from June.

Remarkably, Haval has engineered all export models for right-hand drive from the outset, with RHD export markets getting them at the same time as LHD markets.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

C50

C20R

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Hot concept is a production car precursor: Welburn

Holden confirms newVolt not coming here

By TUNG NGUYENHOLDEN has confirmed the new-generation Volt plug-in hybrid will not be sold in Australia after a decision was made to keep production strictly left-hand drive.

With all but one example of the current model still left in new-car showrooms, the local chapter now closes on General Motors’ pioneering range-extender electric vehicle that only went on sale here in November 2012.

However, the Australian subsidiary of the American auto giant is now considering other electrified vehicle options, such as the Chevrolet Bolt EV.

Unveiled in January at the Detroit auto show, the second-generation Volt features improved technology that will simultaneously increase range and performance, and a rear-seat redesign that accommodates three passengers.

But as GoAuto has reported, the chances of the new model arriving in Australia were always slim amid rapidly falling fuel prices and slow sales of the first-generation model, which have reduced to a trickle (seven units) this year.

GM Holden senior manager of product communications Kate Lonsdale said the company will continue to provide aftersales support and parts for Volt owners.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERENissan sticks with Leaf – page 23

FNR nod

By RON HAMMERTON in SHANGHAIGET excited, General Motors fans – the shapely star of the Shanghai motor show last week, Chevrolet’s futuristic FNR concept, is a chance for production in a hosed-down form.

It might not get the gee-whiz dragon-fly swing doors or the magnetic hubless electric motor wheels, but the overall concept has the blood pumping at America’s biggest motor company.

GM vice-president of design Ed Welburn told GoAuto in Shanghai that although he could not guarantee that the more far-out aspects of the concept would make it into showrooms, the four-seat, coupe-style sportscar design was a prospect for production.

“We will definitely see something this expressive at some point,” he said.

“The wheels ... I don’t know. But I can more guarantee that the shape of this car,

or something like that, will make it into production. But not this year.”

Mr Welburn described the FNR project – done by a team of young

designers in GM’s Pan Asia Technical Automotive Centre (PATAC) studios in Shanghai – as “very strategic on our part”.

“The very same teams that are working on our production vehicles, they have to have the opportunity to pull out all the stops and just do a wild and

expressive concept vehicle,” he said.“Even as it is, there is a lot we can

learn from this, to apply to a production vehicle – the lighting front and rear, the seat design … there is just so much that is good for our production designers to work on.”

The FNR is said to be an electric car, armed with autonomous driving capability, wireless automatic battery charging, iris recognition starting and other technologies straight out of GM’s skunkworks.

A production version might provide GM’s answer to Honda’s plug-in hybrid NSX and similar new-age sportscars, helping to attract a new generation of sports sedan lovers who would not consider a big-iron Corvette or Camaro.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

Ed Welburn

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

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Apr 29, 2015 Page 11

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GraysOnline in partnership with Hilco Industrial provide Automotive EquipmentManufacturers with turn-key asset management, including valuations

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Top Australian marketingexecutive David Katic toleave company this week

PIECH LOSES VW POWERONE of the leading figures behind Volkswagen worldwide, Ferdinand Piech, resigned from his position as chairman with immediate effect last weekend after losing a showdown with chief executive Martin Winterkorn.

In a statement issued on Saturday, Volkswagen AG’s executive committee of the supervisory board said: “Members of the executive committee have unanimously determined that in view of the background of the last weeks the mutual trust necessary for successful co-operation no longer exists.

“For this reason, Professor Dr Ferdinand K Piech has resigned…”

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

By TERRY MARTINFORD Australia has confirmed that long-serving general manager of marketing David Katic is leaving the company at the end of the month “to pursue other opportunities”.

The move comes just weeks after Ford Australia president and CEO Bob Graziano unexpectedly stepped down ahead of the American-owned car-maker’s exit from Australian manufacturing –scheduled to take place in October next year – and amid its critical transition to a national sales operation.

Mr Katic is a 25-year veteran at Ford Australia, starting his career as a marketing analyst at the company’s Broadmeadows head office in 1990.

A spokesperson for Ford Australia confirmed to GoAuto last week that Mr Katic was leaving the company at the end of April, but was unable to provide more information.

A replacement is still to be named, and

while various rumours are circulating about Mr Katic’s next move, none have been corroborated and Mr Katic has not replied to GoAuto’s request for further details.

Mr Katic has been one of the architects of Ford’s transition into a more consumer-focused business, particularly as it prepares to close its factories next year.

He was a leading figure behind the ‘Go Further’ advertising campaign, and as recently as mid-April, in an interview with GoAuto, Mr Katic emphasised that the company was taking a long-term approach to rebuilding its business as a full-line import brand focused heavily on private sales and customer service.

He also said Ford was unconcerned about its sliding sales – down 18.5 per cent for the first quarter this year – and market share, which has eroded to 5.9 per cent over the same period.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

FORD VIGNALE MONDEO NOT ON THEAGENDA FOR AUSTRALIA: CLICK HERE

Another blow for Ford

Ferdinand Piech

Apr 29, 2015 Page 12

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aadaconvention.com.au

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Maitland car dealers hit by flood, rain damage ascosts and claims mount

By TIM ROBSONSEVERAL motor vehicle dealerships in the small New South Wales central coast town of Maitland, near Newcastle, have been badly damaged by rain and floodwaters after last week’s three-day autumn deluge struck Sydney and its surrounds.

The situation was still critical late last week, with major arterial roads in and out of the township still impassable, and power and communication networks still down as the state’s estimated storm damage bill passed $160 million on Thursday and the tally of personal and commercial insurance claims went

beyond 24,000. The local Toyota dealer, Maitland

Toyota, was one of the worst hit, with a reported 70 vehicles inundated with floodwater in a holding yard.

Staff members managed to rescue all pre-sold vehicles but were unable to reach the others before fast-rising floodwaters inundated the holding yard.

The dealership was also without power or communications for two days – a fate shared by much of the small mining town, which recorded more than 277mm of rain in just two days.

Holden’s dealer was also badly affected, with significant flooding to its

workshop, loss of power and damage to the dealership roof.

The town’s Volkswagen dealership has also reportedly suffered stock losses in an offsite yard, while its Mazda dealership also suffered water damage in a showroom.

The Mitsubishi outlet was temporarily closed, due to water damage.

Dealerships in Newcastle have been affected by a widespread power outage that had impacted the city since Monday, April 20, while the nearby town of Cessnock escaped largely unscathed.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

Maitland Toyota last week(Photograph posted on Surfest Newcastle Facebook page)

Maitland and Port Stephens Toyota

Storm hits NSW hard

Apr 29, 2015 Page 13

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• Proven ability to motivate Finance and Insurance teams to achieve benchmarks.

• Strong computer literacy skills.• FSRA Tier II accreditation and strong adherence to

compliance.• Knowledge of ERA Net and ERA Link.Experience requirements include: • Minimum of 5 years experience as a Business Manager

in the Automotive Industry.• Track record of solid sales performance and proven

ability to achieve KPI’s.• Ability to build relationships with your sales teams,

management, finance and insurance companies.In return we offer an excellent salary and benefits package and a commitment to ongoing training and personal development.To apply, please send a CV and covering letter explaining why you are suitable for this role to Richard Bradshaw: rbradshaw@vic.ahg.com.auClosing date for applications is Friday 8th May 2015.

Automotive Holdings Group Limited (AHG) is Australia’s largest automotive retailer, with 169 franchises at more than 100 dealership locations in Australia and New Zealand. AHG’s origins can be traced back to 1952 and the Group employs more than 7,300 people with reported revenue of $4.7 billion in FY2014.We are looking for a dedicated and highly motivated Group Business Manager with a proven track record of success. The key focus areas of this role are to provide our customers with high quality finance and insurance products, to motivate the F&I department to achieve benchmarks and to ensure compliance requirements are adhered to.You will be the key point of contact for the General Insurance business, from a finance perspective, business unit finance and a key liaison for the company auditors.The perfect candidate for this role will have at least five years experience as a Business Manager, ideally within a medium sized Automotive Service Operations business.Key skills requirements for this role include:• Excellent written and verbal communication and team

management skills.

ahg.com.au

Group Business Manager Finance and Insurance

New SUV, LCV models keyas MMAL prioritises brandover ‘crazy’ sales numbers

By TIM NICHOLSONMITSUBISHI Motors Australia Limited (MMAL) will leverage its history and heritage in an attempt to rebuild its brand image, but the company is not chasing huge sales gains Down Under.

The Japanese car-maker admits it has been forced to work on its image after slipping in the minds of buyers – a result of years of retail-focused marketing campaigns, perceived quality and reliability issues and an ageing model line-up.

Speaking at this month’s updated Outlander launch in Sydney, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) global president and COO Tetsuro Aikawa said the company is determined to rebuild its brand globally, and highlighted the importance of the Australian market.

“We are also pleased to report we are working on new product for introduction in Australia and around the world,” he said. “These models need to be the best in the market for design and technology to rebuild the Mitsubishi Motors brand.

“I must emphasise, Australia is a

critical market for us and will play an important role in achieving our long-time goals. In the last few years Mitsubishi Motors in Australia has risen to be a key

player in our global business. Australia now is top-fifth market in the world.”

When asked about Aikawa-san’s comments regarding brand building from a local perspective, MMAL executive director of marketing Tony Principe said the company was

aiming to highlight its long history, while also looking ahead to the future.

“The basic aim is to say, we have a history, we have got a heritage and basically build on that,” he said. “So let’s get the products out there and the technologically advanced features into our products, and obviously the Outlander is another one.

“We are basically trying to rebuild our bases in all of those (small, medium

and large SUV) key segments. MMC is keen to raise the quality, reliability, durability and of course the styling and get a more distinctive position in the marketplace.”

Mr Principe said the competition in the local SUV and light-commercial vehicle market has put pressure on the brand, but it is trying to cover a number of segments within these markets.

“For us the LCV and SUV area has been a traditional strength and obviously over the last few years … the market itself has changed a lot,” he said.

“The SUV market has boomed, basically doubled in last 10 years. And of course there has been segmentation and fragmentation. So obviously we have tried to get into all of the areas. It took us a while to get an ASX, but we got one in 2010.”

FULL STORY: CLICK HERETriton tiers up – page 15

Tetsuro Aikawa

Mitsubishi rebuilds

Outlander

Career opportunity at Deloitte Appointing diligent, conversant, professional people for opportunities and incredible experiencesWe champion and support our talented people in achieving their career goals and collectively celebrate success. In these roles, you will have the opportunity to join our team at Deloitte Motor Industry Services.

About the roles

Deloitte Motor Industry Services is a leader in advising retail motor dealers and numerous brands in Australia and New Zealand. This opportunity will provide challenging assignments and interesting work, including advising dealers on day to day operational matters together with Audit and Tax.

You will be leading or be part of a team leading field work on dealer audit assignments and family corporate business advisory work. You will also have the opportunity to assist in identifying new business opportunities and with the right experience, opportunities exist to be involved in buy and sell transactions. Interstate travel is common and candidates are high performing and career focussed.

Roles also exist for experienced trainers and consultants in the industry including working in Europe and USA with our growing automotive affiliated practices.

About your experience

You may be from the industry and/or an existing qualified professional. You should be CPA or CA qualified or working towards being qualified. Polished communications skills are required.

About us

As one of Australia’s leading professional services firms, Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu and its affiliates provide audit, tax, consulting, and financial advisory services through approximately 6,000 people across the country. Focused on the creation of value and growth, and known as an employer of choice for innovative human resources programs, we are dedicated to helping our clients and our people excel.

We both celebrate and harness diversity, and consider it a competitive advantage. Deloitte has been recognised as an equal opportunity leader for women by the Federal Government’s Equal Opportunity for Women in the Workplace Agency for ten successive years; and also named the 2012 Inclusive Workplace of the Year by the Australian Human Resources Institute (AHRI).

Next steps

If you have the suitable qualities and qualifications please contact Grant Cameron at grcameron@deloitte.com.au

Deloitte refers to one or more of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, a UK private company limited by guarantee, and its network of member firms, each of which is a legally separate and independent entity. Please see www.deloitte.com/au/about for a detailed description of the legal structure of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited and its member firms. Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation. © 2015 Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu

Apr 29, 2015 Page 15

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Recognised as Australia’s largest provider of automotive auction services, Manheim is committed to attracting people who share our passion.

We realise our employees are our most important resource and we pride ourselves on recruiting the right people into the right roles to help us achieve our goals and play an integral part in the future of our company.

For information on careers at Manheim please contact us on recruit@manheim.com.au or connect with us on LinkedIn.

•IT •Sales •Finance •HumanResources

•OnlineandProduct Development •Logistics •Administration

•Marketing •Management •Operations

Drive your career forwarD...are you

looking for that next

challenge?

care

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1

Two-tiered sales structure in place as current ute runs with advanced new modelBy TIM ROBSON

MITSUBISHI Motors Australia Limited (MMAL) will continue to offer its current-spec Triton ute alongside its new-generation sibling for several months, according to the company.

Launched in Queensland this week, the new MQ-series Triton features a new 2.4-litre MIVEC-equipped four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine, revised transmissions, advanced technology and an almost complete makeover of its body – improvements Mitsubishi is hoping will keep the popular ute at the pointy end of its segment against the forthcoming all-new Toyota HiLux, Nissan Navara and heavily upgraded Ford Ranger.

Significant chassis changes and an improvement in its safety package that combine to give Triton a maximum

five-star ANCAP crash-test rating have also been highlighted, as MMAL chases after lost mining sector and government department market share.

Prices have been trimmed and extra equipment added across the line to the fifth-generation Triton, a nameplate which has accumulated 295,000 sales in Australia since its introduction with the second-generation vehicle in the late 1980s, with 150,000 of those being

the current MN model.Prices start at $24,490 plus on-

road costs for the base 4x2 single cab manual, and peak with the $47,490 range-topping Exceed.

“Half of the Tritons we’ve sold in Australia have been the current model which shows you the success of the current model,” said MMAL executive director of marketing Tony Principe. “We are launching the new one, but we’ll have the old one for a while with us.

“We’ll still run the old model as an entry-level proposition, and that will give us a pretty strong presence at the lower end of the market, the tradie-type end.”

Mr Principe said that as long as there are cars to sell, the MN would remain on the showroom floor.

Continued next page

Triton tiers up

Exceed

Apr 29, 2015 Page 16

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SALES MANAGER• Growing global automotive manufacturer • Homebush based

Confidential enquiries are welcome by calling Robert Grubba on 02 9701 1736. Alternatively please forward your resumé and cover letter to: opportunities@kia.com.au. Applications close Friday 15th May 2015. No Agencies please.

KIA MOTORS is one of the world’s fastest growing motor vehicle manufacturers. Represented in over 172 countries across the globe and with a Dealer Network comprising over 120 Dealers nationally, Kia is committed to the long-term future and continuous growth of the brand in Australia.

Reporting to the National Sales Manager, this role is responsible for making a significant contribution towards increasing sales and market share through the creation and deployment of effective sales processes and programs.

Some of the responsibilities will include:

• Achievement of Sales targets and overseeing the Sales operations and administration activities of the Sales department.

• Analyse market activities and developing trends and ascertain brand opportunities in the market place.

• Plan, drive and execute sales activities in accordance with the agreed Operational Plan.

The successful candidate will have the following attributes:

• Minimum 8-10 years sales experience within automotive industries.• A tertiary qualification in a Business discipline is desirable.• Excellent written and verbal communication skills to liaise with all

levels of management, staff and third parties.• Strong business acumen and cross-divisional mindset.• Exceptional People development and leadership skills.• Demonstrated analytical and strategic planning ability.• Proficient in Microsoft Office with advanced Excel skills.

In return the successful candidate will be rewarded with an attractive remuneration package and the opportunity to participate in our Employee Benefits.

Continued from previous pageWhen asked how long the cars would

be sold together, he said: “Probably at least until June or July.

“Basically all we have left is the GLX Plus, the slightly upmarket vehicle that the tradies love.”

The GLX Plus is currently listed at $29,990 driveaway in 4x4 dual cab auto guise.

The three-tier Triton model range now mirrors Mitsubishi’s other line-ups, and starts with the fleet-spec GLX, moving on to the private-buyer GLS and topping out with the new-for-Triton Exceed.

As before, three body styles – double cab, club cab and single cab – and 4x2 and 4x4 drivelines are also offered.

Save for a solitary single cab GLX variant that will come on stream later

in 2015 with a 2.4-litre petrol engine, all Tritons will use a new ‘4N15’ low-compression, MIVEC-equipped 2.4-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine.

With a host of new technologies, including a lightweight variable geometry turbo, all-alloy block and a timing chain to replace the previous Triton’s belt arrangement, the engine produces 133kW of power at 3500rpm and 430Nm of torque at 2500rpm – 2kW and up to 80Nm more than previously – and fuel economy figures of between 7.2 litres per 100 kilometres (GLX dual cab) and 7.6L/100km (Exceed automatic).

A new heavy-duty six-speed manual gearbox makes its debut in Triton, while a five-speed Aisin automatic is lifted from the Pajero wagon for the ute, albeit with a different electronic control unit.

GLX models are equipped with the Easy Select 4WD system, with a lower gear ratio in the 4L sub-transmission than before. The GLS and Exceed are fitted with Mitsubishi’s latest Super Select 4WD II system which offers four driving modes including a locked 4WD mode, while the Exceed also receives an electronically locking rear differential.

Suspension has been heavily tweaked across the range. A thicker sway bar, heavier springs and revised dampers update the dual wishbone layout up front, while 120mm-longer uprated leaf springs fitted to a newly reinforced mount and redesigned dampers make up the rear. The new Triton now has an approach angle of 30 degrees and a departure angle of 22 degrees.

FULL STORY: CLICK HEREDRIVE IMPRESSIONS: CLICK HERE

Lancer upgrade coming – page 18

PRICING:4x2GLX Single Cab Chassis $24,490 GLX Single Cab Chassis (a) $26,990GLX Double Cab Pick Up (a) $35,9904x4GLX Single Cab Chassis $32,490 GLX Club Cab Chassis $35,290 GLX Double Cab Pick Up $36,990 GLX Double Cab Pick Up (a) $39,490 GLS Double Cab Pick Up $40,990 GLS Double Cab Pick Up (a) $43,490 Exceed Double Cab Pick Up (a) $47,490

GLX Single Cab Chassis

Triton tiers up

MTAA Super has introduced a clearing house solution, QuickSuper, to help employers comply with the new online data and payment standards.

KEY BENEFITS• Make all your super contributions with ONE transaction

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• Add new employees without additional paperwork

• Secure online facility

TAKE THE NEXT STEP Go to the MTAA Super website mtaasuper.com.au/get-superstream-ready to find out how we can help you be SuperStream compliant by June 30. Alternatively, please contact our Customer Service Centre directly on 1300 362 415.

BY JUNE 30?DID YOU KNOW THAT THE GOVERNMENT’S SUPERSTREAM REGULATIONS MEAN YOU MIGHT NEED TO CHANGE THE WAY YOU ARE PAYING EMPLOYEES’ SUPER BY JUNE 30, 2015?

An easy solution

The MTAA Super Clearing House is a non-cash payment facility issued by Westpac Banking Corporation. MTAA Super does not issue or operate the MTAA Super Clearing House. It offers a high level of security, stability and privacy and is subject to regulation as a financial product. You should consider the terms and conditions in the Product Disclosure Statement in deciding whether to use the MTAA Super Clearing House, which is available from https://clearinghouse.mtaasuper.com.au/ApplicationIntroductionView. This document is issued by Motor Trades Association of Australia Superannuation Fund Pty Limited (ABN 14 008 650 628, AFSL 238 718) of Level 3, 39 Brisbane Avenue Barton ACT 2600, Trustee of the MTAA Superannuation Fund (ABN 74 559 365 913). Motor Trades Association of Australia Superannuation Fund Pty Limited has ownership interests in Industry Super Holdings Pty Ltd and Members Equity Bank Pty Ltd. The information provided is of a general nature and does not take into account your specific needs or personal situation. You should assess your financial position and personal objectives before making any decision based on this information. We also recommend that you seek advice from a licensed financial adviser. The MTAA Super Product Disclosure statement (PDS), an important document containing all the information you need to make a decision about MTAA Super, can be obtained by calling MTAA Super on 1300 362 415. You should consider the PDS in making a decision.

mtaasuper.com.au

*The MTAA Super Clearing House is accessible free of charge to default or registered employers of MTAA Super subject to application criteria. Other employers may be granted use of the service at the approval of the Trustee.

Do you have more than 20 employees?Will you be SuperStream compliant...

MTAA SUPER

Apr 29, 2015 Page 18

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Facelift will seek to keepsmall car relevant but noword yet on full redesign

By TIM NICHOLSONMITSUBISHI’S ageing Lancer small-car range will get a much-needed boost next year with the arrival of a late-life facelift featuring the company’s new corporate identity.

As part of the update, the Lancer is believed to be receiving Mitsubishi’s latest ‘Dynamic Shield’ face, a design language previewed by the XR-PHEV and GC-PHEV concepts from the 2013 Tokyo motor show, and more recently seen in production guise on the just-launched Outlander.

The current-generation Lancer arrived at the start of 2007 and has remained largely unchanged, albeit with minor styling and equipment upgrades along the way and a major price cut late last year.

In the eight years since it launched, every one of its competitors in the sub-$40,000 small-car segment has had a full model change, with some, including the Mazda3, having two new-generation models launch during that time.

In late 2013, Mitsubishi announced its ‘New Stage 2016’ strategic plan that would see the car-maker focus on developing SUVs, light-commercials and plug-in hybrid and electric powertrains, while it would farm out its passenger car development to the Renault-Nissan Alliance.

Despite plans to share a C-segment small car based on the next Renault Megane – the most likely source of

the next Lancer – reports earlier this year suggested the joint-venture talks had broken down, leaving Mitsubishi without a partner and without a Lancer replacement.

Mitsubishi Motors Australia Limited (MMAL) executive director of marketing Tony Principe told GoAuto at this month’s Outlander launch that there was confusion within the company as to whether the joint venture had indeed fallen through. He added that MMAL now had to “sit back and wait and see what they do”.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE New MMAL WA manager – page 28

Current MY15 Lancer

MB

M03

8

601 Mains Rd, Macgregor, QLD Ph: 07 3335 5300 www.mbmacgregor.com.auMercedes-Benz Macgregor

Let us put your career in pole position.Pre-Owned Sales Manager

Mercedes-Benz Macgregor, the only authorised Mercedes-Benz Dealership on the Southside of Brisbane, is experiencing substantial growth in both enquiries and sales. Due to this growth we are seeking a Pre-Owned Sales Manager to join our team.

You already have a great track record selling cars and managing a team. Now, imagine working with one of the world’s most well-known automotive marques. Your strong customer service background, excellent staff management and organisational skills, and well-rounded understanding of Pre-Owned Sales departments will see you succeed in this role.

With a professional approach to everything they do, the successful applicant will share our vision to

deliver the ultimate Mercedes-Benz experience. In return, we will provide a competitive remuneration package, ongoing training and support, a friendly and encouraging work environment, and opportunities for career development. (Interstate relocation expenses considered).

Up to the challenge? Then we want to hear from you.

Experienced applicants should email a current resumé and cover letter to the General Manager, Ben Haywood on ben.haywood@mbmacgregor.com.au

Lancer upgrade coming

Apr 29, 2015 Page 19

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Career OpportunitiesA career with Honda is a career with an innovative, award-winning automotive brand with an international presence in almost 200 countries. We focus on investing in people and systems for future growth and offer a professional, engaging work environment.

DISTRICT SALES MANAGER – Banyo, QLDReporting to the Regional Sales Manager this is a hands-on sales management role with a focus on building strong relationships and maximising profitability and vehicle sales within the Honda dealer network. We are looking for a dynamic and innovative person to join our team. Ideally you will have:• Proven success in a customer-facing environment with an

understanding of the automotive industry.• Proven sales and account management experience and

motivation to succeed.• Well-developed communication, presentation, influencing and

customer relationship skills.• Strong analytical and problem solving skills.• High proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite including Excel.

DISTRICT AFTERSALES MANAGER – Banyo, QLDReporting to the Regional Aftersales Manager, as part of the Honda Aftersales team you will be responsible for ensuring sustainable sales growth as well as maximisation of customer retention by providing support to the Honda dealer network for both the Service and Parts departments. This will involve partnering with your assigned dealers and assisting directly in the promotion and development of their dealership service and parts business. Ideally you will have:• Ability to develop ongoing working relationships with the

Dealership Principal and all dealer staff, hence excellent interpersonal skills are essential.

• Demonstrated strong influencing and negotiation skills.• High proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite including Excel.

Attractive remuneration packages are offered inclusive of a fully-maintained vehicle. To apply for either of the above positions, please email your resumé with a covering letter to careers@honda.com.au. Honda is an equal opportunity employer. No agencies please.

Further price cuts of upto $3060, new featureskick in with MY15 series

By TIM ROBSONSUBARU Australia has followed the dramatic price reductions for its Liberty and Outback twins by realigning pricing of its Impreza small-car range.

Prices are down across the board, with the biggest beneficiary the range-topping 2.0i-S which loses $3060, or 11.5 per cent, off its sticker price to now start at $27,400 plus on-road costs.

Subaru has also shaken up its mid-pack by replacing the 2.0i-L with a less-expensive yet better-equipped 2.0i Premium variant.

“Because of the specification variation from the L – which was the previous mid-ranger – the decision was made to call it Premium rather than L,” Subaru Australia public relations manager David Rowley told GoAuto.

The base 2.0i also falls by $1000,

and is currently offered at $22,990 driveaway for the six-speed manual, or with Subaru’s continuously variable transmission (CVT) for $24,990 driveaway.

“The ‘i’ model remains as the entry level,” Mr Rowley said. “It’ll stay that way (driveaway pricing) for the foreseeable future.”

All of these cuts come on top of a $500 correction applied to each variant early this

year with the implementation of the free-trade agreement between Japan and Australia.

For 2015, the Impreza scores a new grille, headlights and foglight treatment, along with additional chrome trim and a

grey underspoiler on the sedan variant.All three grades also receive the

same updated infotainment systems that feature in the new Forester and Liberty, along with other small interior tweaks including the fitment of two five-volt USB charging points for rear-seat passengers and some small trim additions.

The new 2.0i Premium starts at $21,400 plus on-road costs and comes equipped with 16-inch wheels, leather trim, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, foglights and a reversing camera over and above the base-grade car.

It is offered with either a six-speed manual gearbox or the CVT for a $2000 uptick.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

PRICING:2.0i $22,990 d/a2.0i (a) $24,990 d/a2.0i Premium $21,400 2.0i Premium (a) $23,400 2.0i-S (a) $27,400

Subaru Impreza boost

Apr 29, 2015 Page 20

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cityfordSYDNEY

In this role you will be responsible for increasing sales performance, profitability and operating efficiently while ensuring all customer needs are met. You will be able to motivate staff with your strong leadership and people management skills; leading your team to deliver on their business objectives. You will receive strong and decisive management support and benefit from our state-of-the-art dealership facilities and friendly, hard-working and successful team environment. On offer to the successful candidate is an excellent remuneration package matched to experience.To apply, please send your resumé with covering letter to David Donnan, Dealer Principal via email ddonnan@cityford.com.au or phone 02 9331 5000 for further details.Applications are strictly confidential and only short-listed candidates will be contacted. To be considered for this role you must be living in Australia with legal work rights and hold a valid NSW Driver's Licence.

SALES MANAGERCITY FORD SYDNEY is seeking to employ an experienced USED CAR SALES MANAGER to join their successful sales team. We are looking for someone with an enviable track record of performance who is highly organised, can value, purchase and recondition used cars coupled with excellent presentation, communication and strong negotiation skills. This is an exceptional opportunity for a motivated Sales professional, at senior management level, to join a significant dealership and be part of the Australian Automotive Group.

2015 Ford Mustang

Pioneering crossover nowwith neat 1.2 base turbo,higher value across range

By BYRON MATHIOUDAKISNISSAN has refreshed its controversially styled Juke compact SUV with a raft of improvements and unique features that the company hopes will push it front and centre of buyers’ shortlists.

On sale now from $23,490 plus on-road costs, the base ST 2WD manual is $1400 more expensive than its immediate predecessor but gains significantly more torque thanks to a modern 1.2-litre turbocharged engine that replaces the 1.6-litre naturally aspirated unit.

The updated version also gains fuel-saving automatic engine idle-stop technology, daytime driving lights, door-mirror indicator repeaters, a tyre-pressure monitoring system and 17-inch alloy wheels.

The Juke’s subtly altered nose features boomerang-shaped headlights with LEDs, restyled bumpers and revised tail-light lenses, while the cabin has been enhanced with a redesigned centre console.

A 40 per cent larger boot addresses one of the previous model’s biggest flaws – at least in 2WD variants – and thanks to a redesigned rear floor area it now carries up to 354 litres.

However, the facelifted ST 2WD automatic that Nissan says will again be the best-selling variant is stuck with the carryover 1.6-litre unit, though it does gain all other spec and functionality advancements for the same price as before – $24,490 plus on-roads.

Now starting $1300 further upstream at $29,790, the mid-range ST-S 2WD 1.6-litre turbo manual now scores a Ti-S badge and extra equipment such as Xenon headlights,

DAB+ digital radio, smartphone app connectivity, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, ‘moving object detection’ and an around-view monitor with rearview camera as part of Nissan’s ‘Safety Shield’ system.

Finally, the $33,490 Ti-S CVT AWD benefits from the above updates except for the bigger boot – its cargo area remains at a paltry 207L – for a $1000 price increase.

Sourced from alliance partner Renault, the Juke ST 2WD’s 1.2-litre

direct-injection turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine offers 85kW of power at 4500rpm and 190Nm of torque at 2000rpm.

Driving the front wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox, the ST 1.2 uses 5.6 litres of fuel per 100km (down 0.4L) and emits 129g/km of CO2.

The ST 1.6 with CVT produces 86kW at 6000rpm and 158Nm at 4000rpm, and returns fuel consumption of 6.3L/100km and emissions of 145g/km. This natural-breathing four-cylinder is a Euro 4-compliant engine compared with the others’ Euro 5 rating. All require 95 RON premium unleaded petrol.

Moving on to the 1.6-litre direct-injection turbo in the Ti-S brings a healthy 140kW at 5600rpm and 240Nm from 1600-5200rpm, for a 6.0L/100km (AWD: 6.5L/100km) and 139g/km (AWD: 153g/km) result.

FULL STORY: CLICK HEREDRIVE IMPRESSIONS: CLICK HEREMicra now fit to fight – next page

PRICING:ST 2WD $23,490 ST 2WD (a) $24,490 Ti-S 2WD $29,790 Ti-S AWD (a) $33,490

Nissan rejigs Juke

ST

Apr 29, 2015 Page 21

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GoAuto NewsJohn Mellor’s

All 4 the Driver™ is our simple business philosophy that says we’re all for performance, all for safety. Nobody stands behind their company, their employees, their product and their Drivers, like Subaru.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES WILL INCLUDE:• Reporting to the Regional Manager, optimise sales and

customer satisfaction through building strong relationships with our retailers.

• Retail and Wholesale planning and development.• Identify opportunities for incremental and conquest sales.• Achieve your regional, national and model sales targets.• Ensure your representation is aligned to changing market

dynamics.

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE WILL HAVE:• 3 to 8 years experience in a similar sales role within the

Automotive Industry.• Demonstrated ability to develop and implement strategies in

a highly competitive environment.• Strong communication, presentation and negotiation skills.• Tertiary qualifications in business management or finance

will be an advantage.

SUBARU BENEFITS FOR THIS OPPORTUNITY:• Challenging opportunity.• Attractive remuneration package including car.• Work for a premium and successful brand.• Passionate team environment.

If you would like to drive your career forward with Subaru, please apply directly to: recruitment@subaru.com.au by Friday 8th May 2015.

No agency applications will be accepted and only successful applicants will be contacted.

BUSINESS MANAGER – Murrarie, QLD

Are you ready for a change in direction in the Automotive Industry and now want to work for a Premium Brand?

Sharper looks, pricing forMicra help Nissan mountnew attack on micro class

By BYRON MATHIOUDAKISNISSAN’S long-awaited Micra facelift has finally surfaced in Australia – more than two years after the first pictures of it were released – with pricing and features designed to make a splash in the micro-car segment.

According to Nissan Australia managing director and CEO Richard Emery, the combination of an over-supply of the outgoing model combined with a dogged determination to bring in precisely the right content delayed the K13 Series II version’s local launch until now.

“We had too many of the earlier one,” Mr Emery admitted, referring to the massive stockpile of unsold vehicles that Nissan has only recently traded its way through. “And we could have done it earlier.

“But I must say I was being stubborn about what we wanted to do in terms of

pricing and spec and model line-up. “The one thing I’ve learned is don’t

agree with anything until you’re happy with it. So we probably could have done it six months earlier in terms of

our stock of the old model, but I wanted to make sure that we got (it) right before I said yes.

“I didn’t want to bring in a car that wasn’t going to be

competitive.” The frank assessment underlines Mr

Emery’s take-no-prisoners approach to boosting Nissan’s sales and profitability, which has already seen the elimination last year of the Micra’s slow-selling

Almera sedan sibling.As Mr Emery has discussed

exclusively with GoAuto, improving the model mix and eliminating duplication has been a cornerstone to the company’s reversal of fortune over recent months, which has seen Nissan record a 20 per cent sales improvement for the first quarter.

In the case of Micra, that means paring back variants to just two: the base ST manual from an unchanged $13,490 plus on-road costs (or $1800 more for the automatic version); and the auto-only Ti from $16,990. The mid-spec ST-L has been deleted.

Continued next page

PRICING:ST $13,490 ST (a) $15,290 Ti (a) $16,990

Micra now fit to fight

Ti

Apr 29, 2015 Page 22

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GoAuto NewsJohn Mellor’s

Vital Software is Australia’s foremost CRM and data integration solutions provider for the Automotive industry. With offices in South Melbourne, we are looking

for SEVERAL experienced software developers to enhance our team.

Specifically we are looking for the following technical expertise:5+ years’ experience in C#, ASP.NET, AJAX3+ years’ expertise in TSQL and SQL Server 2008+ Experience with Automotive Industry data environmentsExperience with HTML and JavascriptExperience with Web ServicesStrong skills in solution design and analysisApplicants must have great interpersonal skills

If you are looking for an exciting career with a dynamic fast-growing organisation, please email your resume to support@vitalsoftware.net

Senior Software Developers Wanted

Softwarevital

Continued from previous pageWith up to 80 per cent of buyers

expected to choose the ST, Nissan is the first importer to bite the bullet in the micro-car class by specifying cruise control as standard equipment – a significant step, as popular models from the next segment up such as the Mazda2 Neo do not offer it in their entry-level variants.

Other ST additions include powered (rather than manual) rear windows, integrated Bluetooth telephony with audio streaming, and USB connectivity.

The Ti, which is now $2000 cheaper than before, adds this equipment too for the first time, along with satellite navigation, a rearview camera and upgraded cloth trim.

The top-spec model also features front foglights, automatic headlights, a rear spoiler, 15-inch alloy wheels

and LED tail-lights, however some equipment that was previously available is no longer included: electric folding mirrors, climate-control air-conditioning, rear parking sensors and a handbag holder.

The LED tail-lights easily identify the new model, along with the revised rear valance panel between them, while up front trainspotters will notice the sleeker headlights, larger corporate grille, redesigned bonnet and reshaped bumper.

Inside, the alterations run to the upgraded audio system, squared-off rather than round vent outlets, minor instrument panel alterations, different seat trim and better plastic quality.

The 1.2-litre ‘HR2DE’ normally aspirated three-cylinder petrol engine

is unchanged, along with the five-speed manual or four-speed automatic alternative.

Power is rated at 56kW at 6000rpm, and the 104Nm torque maximum kicks in at 4000rpm. Combined average fuel consumption is 5.9 litres per 100 kilometres (6.5L/100km for the auto), while the CO2 emissions average is 138g/km (auto: 154g/km).

No changes have been made to the MacPherson struts up front, torsion beam rear suspension or electric rack and pinion steering systems.

The facelifted Micra continues with a four-star safety rating from ANCAP.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE DRIVE IMPRESSIONS: CLICK HERE

Nissan sticks with Leaf – next page

Micra now fit to fight

Ti

Apr 29, 2015 Page 23

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GoAuto NewsJohn Mellor’s

Mitsubishi Motors is a leading distributor of motor vehicles across Australia with models including Lancer, Triton, Pajero and Outlander. With a raft of new models being introduced over the next 24 months, we’re looking for people with the energy, initiative and drive to help us continue to grow our brand in Australia.

National Collision Product Manager

Adelaide, Melbourne or Sydney Based

Reporting to the Head of Sales and Marketing for Parts and Accessories, you will be responsible for developing and implementing a national and regional strategy to achieve Mitsubishi Motors annual aftersales objectives for the collision channel.

The successful applicant will act as Mitsubishi’s specialist to the industry by supporting and developing relationships with key industry stakeholders including dealers, repairer associations, MTAs, automotive associations, insurers and relevant government bodies in order to ensure Mitsubishi maximise their opportunities for the sales of OE parts nationally.

A strategic thinker with strong negotiation skills, you will be tertiary qualified and possess sound understanding of the collision and repair industry (Ref No. COU185).

Sales Development Manager Qld

Brisbane Based

Reporting to the Regional Sales Manager, you will be responsible for planning, leading and monitoring the achievement of Mitsubishi Motors Australia sales and owner loyalty objectives within the assigned dealer zone.

Ideally you will be degree qualified, an experienced sales professional, results focused, with strong presentation abilities, the highest level of written and verbal communication combined with strong interpersonal and relationship building skills (Ref No. COU183).

Aftersales Business Manager NSW

Sydney Based

Reporting to the Regional Manager, you will be responsible for developing and implementing a regional business plan to achieve Mitsubishi’s annual aftersales objectives for parts and accessories sales, service sales penetration and customer satisfaction. This will include building and supporting an effective network of parts and service outlets capable of achieving Mitsubishi’s revenue forecasts.

You will be an experienced and action oriented aftersales professional, with a sound understanding of, and management experience with, dealer operations or non-genuine operations. Strong consultative skills combined with excellent written and verbal communication and customer service skills are essential (Ref No. COU184).

love that career

To discuss these roles in absolute confidence, contact Ross Geddes or Paul Grindrod, at COURLAND AUTOMOTIVE PRACTICE, or email your resume quoting the relevant Ref No. Tel: (02) 9957 4182 Email: australia@courland.com In association with Geddes Parker & Partners

www.mitsubishi-motors.com.au

Service Training Specialist – AdelaideMitsubishi Motors is one of the world’s largest motor vehicle manufacturers, with over 11 million people around the world having chosen to drive our vehicles. Mitsubishi Motors is also one of the fastest growing mainstream brands in Australia, and with popular models in key segments and exciting new products coming to market, we are poised for even further growth.Mitsubishi Motors Australia is currently seeking a qualified Service Training Specialist to play an integral part in developing all new Service training courses for our Dealer network that will incorporate all of our advances in technology. You will also develop and schedule Service Advisor Process and Product training courses.Based in our Adelaide Head Office and Reporting to the Manager Service Training, you will be required to carry out the development of engaging technical training courses, the delivery of the Service Advisor Training Programs, and updating existing courses. Importantly, you will be responsible for our ‘Train-the-Trainers’ sessions and the development of online courses and support material for the Aftersales Technical Training department.To be successful in this role you will have previous automotive industry experience in training development and delivery and possess a collaborative and motivating training style. You will hold appropriate training qualification TAE40110 Cert IV in Training and Assessment (or be working towards it). Experience in a Service Adviser/Manager role is preferred, and qualifications as motor mechanic or auto electrician are desirable. Intrastate and interstate travel delivering training is required. MMAL offers a competitive remuneration and benefits package and the opportunity to work within a dynamic environment.

Applications in writing detailing experience and qualifications and a resumé should be submitted online at http://www.mitsubishi-motors.com.au/about-us/careers. For a confidential discussion call 0407 393 977.

Unprofitable EV to stay for now but governmentsupport required: Emery

By BYRON MATHIOUDAKISNISSAN has again lashed out at “frustrating” and “disappointing” comments made by federal industry minister Ian Macfarlane on the viability of electric vehicles, adding that it will persevere with the Leaf despite a lack of support from government.

Speaking at the announcement of increased contracts for a range of aluminium parts made by Nissan Casting Australia in Melbourne last week, Nissan Australia managing director and CEO Richard Emery warned that statements such as the one the federal minister made recently – that EVs were “an idea, not a solution” to personal transport needs – have long-term consequences and should not be made lightly.

Asked if the Leaf is dead in Australia, Mr Emery said that Mr Macfarlane – who made the remarks at the opening of Hyundai’s hydrogen car refuelling station in Sydney on April 1 – “seems to think so”.

He added: “No, I’d like it not to be. We want to hang in there with Leaf as long as we can.

“I am disappointed with the government’s attitude. I think that was ill-informed, and maybe shooting from the hip. We were hoping for a more forward-thinking government position on low-emission and zero-emission vehicles.”

While Australian Leaf sales are down 26.2 per cent in the first quarter of this year compared to the same period in 2014, the battery-powered Nissan remains the world’s best-selling EV with more than 100,000 cars delivered since 2011, for a 45 per cent share of the global EV market.

Mr Emery said he believes EVs will eventually become mainstream propositions, and that buyers will look to Nissan as a pioneer.

“We want to stick with the Leaf because we think electric cars will be a viable option in the mainstream in

time at some point in time. I don’t know whether it is five years from now or 10 years from now.

“But when it does happen, I’d like people to say, ‘Nissan have been at that for 15 years and they obviously know what they are doing.’ I think we have that position now and I’d be really loath to walk away from it.

“Leaf is a success globally, so from that perspective, whether we sell 300 Leafs in Australia or not is not going to hurt this (the casting export program) business.”

As GoAuto has reported, Holden has officially confirmed that it will not bring the new-generation Volt range-extender electric vehicle to Australia and that supplies of the current model have run out.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE‘We’ve found no interest’ – page 27

Nissan sticks with Leaf

Apr 29, 2015 Page 24

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GoAuto NewsJohn Mellor’s

• Great Earning Opportunity. OTE $250K• Dynamic team environment with a

large, multi brand automotive groupDue to continued growth we are currently seeking a motivated F&I Business manager to join our team.

This role would suite a dedicated and highly motivated Finance and Insurance Business Manager. Working closely with our Group Business Manager you will work towards building on our already successful finance team.

In your role you will be responsible for:

• Achieving and exceeding monthly sales targets• Driving the Finance and Insurance sales

opportunities • Negotiating the final close and helping the Sales

Consultants in closing deals.• Managing the finance and insurance process • Establish long-term relationships and repeat

business.

To be successful in this role you will have:

• Previous experience in a similar role within the automotive industry;

• Be Computer savvy with an excellent administrative background;

• Possess exceptional interpersonal and organisational skills with the ability to multi-task;

• A strong commitment to customer service and be able to build rapport with a wide range of people; &

• The ability to produce accurate and timely reporting.

In return we will offer the successful applicant:

• Career development and mentoring• Strong growth opportunities• A generous salary and commission structure• A rewarding, professional and fun work

environment

If you are hungry for success and looking to work within a large multi franchise dealership – then put yourself in the driver’s seat.

queenslandautosports groupBusiness Manager F&I.

Email applications to : Group Business Manager - renae.guiney@mbtoowong.com.au

PO Box 631Indooroopolly QLD 4068

Redesigned flagship limoto shed kilos but pack inmore technology, safety

By NEIL DOWLINGBMW’S electric ‘i’ series technology will flow straight into the next 7 Series flagship sedan, slashing weight and enhancing performance over the existing model.

The German car-maker last week unclothed its next flagship range, due in Australia late next year, highlighting extensive use of carbon-fibre and alloy to cut the car’s weight by up to 130kg.

Carbon-fibre is used to form the passenger cell but has secondary advantages in increasing the torsional rigidity and strength of the vehicle.

BMW said that with the cell in place, “sheetmetal elements can be adjusted accordingly, allowing body weight to be significantly reduced”.

The platform and passenger cell,

dubbed ‘35up’ by BMW, will be used in the future for models from the 7 Series down to the 3 Series.

The exterior design of the next 7 Series is not expected to deviate too much from the current model that launched in 2009. It has a wider, longer nose and lower roofline and features many of the elements of the ‘Future Luxury Concept’ shown at the 2014 Beijing motor show.

Reports from Europe suggest the next 7 Series may have autonomous driving technology for use in some European cities. The technology is the result of a

recent partnership between BMW and German components giant Continental.

Engines will remain similar to current powerplants, however the V12 may be dropped. A plug-in hybrid is likely, given BMW’s shift into the technology that will first appear on the X5 xDrive40e.

BMW said air suspension will be standard, with a self-levelling function and the company’s electronic Dynamic Damper Control also included.

FULL STORY: CLICK HEREMore reports – page 27

BMW details 7 Series tech

2016 7 Series prototype

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GoAuto InBrief

John Mellor’s

Apr 29, 2015 Page 25

What it must be like to be famous. Constantly stopped by people to take photos and others gawking at you in the street. This is not dissimilar to our brief experience behind the wheel of the epically powerful and gob-smackingly gorgeous Ferrari F12 Berlinetta. The stunning red V12-powered supercar garnered more attention than we knew what to do with and after a few days in the cockpit, it is easy to see why. It is, quite simply, one of the most perfectly crafted, insanely enjoyable, and frightfully quick cars on the road.

Ferrari F12 Berlinetta

GoAuto’s latest car review www.GoAuto.com.au

MINI ADDS 5-DOOR ONEMINI Australia has added a new entry-level variant to its 5-door hatch range with the ‘One’ priced from $26,050 plus on-road costs.

This makes it $1550 more expensive than the cheapest Mini available, the three-door Mini One, but $1700 below the 5-door Cooper, priced from $27,750.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

PEUGEOT SUPER-TEASEPEUGEOT has released a short video that offers a glimpse of a sleek new concept sportscar, either marking the next step in the evolution of its Onyx hyper-hybrid and the company’s future design direction – or a computer game.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

Mixed bag

Euro NCAP: 5 stars for Vitara, 4 for 500X, Mazda2By DANIEL GARDNER

SUZUKI has scored a maximum five-star safety rating with its all-new Vitara compact SUV in the latest round of European New Car Assessment Program (ENCAP) tests, but Fiat’s similarly sized 500X high-rider and the latest Mazda2 light hatchback pulled up short with just four stars.

While all three models scored well for occupant and pedestrian protection, the Fiat and Mazda’s overall result were each dragged down by a 64 per cent result in the ‘safety assistance’ category, which requires a minimum of 70 per cent for a five-star rating. The Suzuki scored 75 per cent.

This is partly due to ENCAP’s ruling on each vehicle’s application of autonomous emergency braking (AEB) technology, which significantly mitigates the likelihood and severity of nose-to-tail and pedestrian collisions and which now figures heavily in the safety authority’s assessment criteria.

All three models have AEB available as an option in Europe but the fact that none of them are fitted standard with

the technology meant that the system did not qualify for inclusion in the assessment “at the low speeds typical of city driving”.

Whereas the Mazda2’s AEB system does not operate at higher speeds, the technology on the Vitara and 500X does include high-speed ‘inter-urban’ functionality which is typically included in the assessment.

However, ENCAP said: “Fiat do not expect most cars to be equipped with the system so its higher-speed functionality was not included.”

With Vitara, ENCAP simply said “its functionality at the higher speeds typical of inter-urban driving was included and its performance was good” – hence the higher rating.

Notably, the 500X and Mazda2 are also available in Europe with a lane-departure warning system – a factor that was “rewarded in the assessment” of both vehicles, despite being optional – while the Vitara does not have this technology available.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

CITROEN SUBTRACTS C3CITROEN’S C3 hatch is being dumped from its line-up as it is unable to compete in Australia’s tough light-car segment.

The decision comes about 18 months after the C3 was reintroduced to Australia in a facelifted second-generation guise, after disappearing from Citroen’s local line-up almost a year before that.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

AUDI MULLS 1.8 FOR TTAUDI Australia may go back to the future and reintroduce a base-spec 1.8-litre TFSI-powered variant to its local TT sportscar range.

The engine was dropped from the TT for the latest generation, but it has just returned to the European line-up and Australia could follow suit.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

BARINA X FACTOR: CLICK HERE

Vitara

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

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GoAuto Market Insight

John Mellor’s

GoAuto Market Insight – brought to you by Dealer Solutions

DealerSolutions

Means Performance.

Apr 29, 2015 Page 26

By TERRY MARTINIF AUSTRALIAN new-vehicle buyers based their purchase decisions on best-in-class CO2 output, only two segments would offer up a vehicle with a traditional petrol internal combustion engine – and one of these, the Holden Ute, will be off the market by the end of 2017.

That leaves only the Fiat 500 micro-car – which has a super-efficient 0.9-litre two-cylinder TwinAir engine in its arsenal – burning the wick for IC petrol engines while every other segment now offers up either full-electric, hybrid (petrol and diesel) or diesel engines as the cleanest in class.

This is a sign of the times, but in sales terms traditional petrol-engined vehicles last year still accounted for the vast majority of all new registrations – 68 per cent (ex-heavy commercial) – while increasingly advanced diesel models made up 31 per cent, leaving hybrid, electric and LPG to scrap over the remaining single digit.

In its just-released report into carbon dioxide emissions for new Australian light vehicles in 2014, the National Transport Commission (NTC) has again emphasised that if buyers routinely chose the best-in-class vehicle the national CO2 emissions would be so much lower that we would be leading the rest of the world rather

than lagging well behind comparable markets.

Were this the case, and without including vehicles with zero tailpipe emissions in its calculations, the NTC believes Australia’s new-vehicle CO2 average would have been at 95 grams per kilometre last year – the point Europe as a whole (across 28 EU member countries) plans to be by 2021 – whereas in fact we came in at 188g/km.

The difference in CO2 between the top-selling models in each class and the greenest is striking, particularly as hi-tech new vehicles with alternative powertrains – often created as a direct result of the tough regulations in Europe – trickle into key segments here.

In Australia’s biggest-selling segment – small cars – the leading

Toyota Corolla’s average CO2 emissions (154g/km) were more than 1000 per cent above BMW’s new i3 REX plug-in hybrid (13g/km), with the NTC leaving the battery-operated zero-emissions i3 BEV and Nissan’s Leaf out of the equation.

The differences are smaller in other segments, but no less significant, with Hyundai’s top-selling i20 light car (149g/km) emitting 65 per cent more CO2 on average last year than the Fiat 500 and the Toyota Prius C petrol-electric hybrid (both 90g/km), while the Korean brand’s leading light-sized SUV, the ix35 (208g/km), sent 102 per cent more CO2 into the atmosphere than Peugeot’s class-greenest diesel-powered 2008 (103g/km).

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

Gulf between top sellers,greenest cars widens withtech vs traditional values

Range and average CO2 intensities by segment, 2014

It’s not easy being green

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Does your current website tick all the boxes?

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Green issues in the auto worldGoAuto Green

John Mellor’s

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GoAuto Green – brought to you by Titan DMS

Apr 29, 2015 Page 27

By NEIL DOWLINGFEDERAL government inaction on supporting low-emissions vehicles will not stop BMW adding more electric vehicles to its Australian range.

BMW Group Australia head of product and market planning Shawn Ticehurst told GoAuto that the company could follow up its i3 and i8 with another i-series model “within a few years” – but would not confirm it as the rumoured i5 sedan.

“There’s a lot of speculation but nothing has been confirmed,” he said.

“But we would certainly welcome a third electric vehicle. I think the market is ready for another electric car and it would complement the extremes of our i3 city car and i8 performance coupe.”

However, Mr Ticehurst expressed disappointment that the move to ultra-low-emissions vehicles was not being embraced by all tiers of government in Australia.

“We’ve taken our message to the federal, states and local governments but have found no interest,” he said.

“We’re not asking for expensive infrastructure or subsidies. We’re asking for acceptance of the technology so we can join the rest of the world.

“At the moment, Australia’s position in accepting sustainable vehicles is embarrassing. I think technology has overtaken the government.”

Mr Ticehurst’s views follow comments made last week by Nissan Australia managing director and CEO Richard Emery who said his company would continue to sell the electric Leaf hatchback despite it being unprofitable and having no assistance from

government.In an interview with GoAuto, Mr

Emery said he was “a little bit frustrated on a number of fronts on various levels of government about their lack of understanding of this business”.

His statements came after federal industry and science minister Ian Macfarlane said electric cars were “an idea, not a solution” and that other options could be better.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

BMW to continue i-modelrollout in Australia despiteno government incentives

‘We’ve found no interest’

X5 xDrive40e at 2015 Auto Shanghai

3-CYLINDER 3 SERIESBMW’S popular 3 Series sedan appears to be edging closer to three-cylinder power, if not in the major facelift due next year then potentially in the next generation due about 2018.

The German prestige car-maker has not ruled out a three-pot engine for its most popular passenger car but GoAuto understands a three-cylinder 3 Series is likely to continue the progression of the drivetrains, which started in the Mini hatch, followed by the 2 Series Active Tourer and the forthcoming 1 Series update.

Speaking to GoAuto, BMW Group Australia corporate communications manager Lenore Fletcher could not confirm the future 3 Series engine line-up, but did say the popularity and performance of three-cylinder engines would enable them to grow through the BMW range.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

Shawn Ticehurst

GoAuto Personnel

John Mellor’s

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Unequalled Career Opportunities

Automotive Recruitment Specialists since 1995Australia’s Best Selection of Quality Candidates

Australia’s No. 1 Automotive Recruiter

motorstaff.com.aucareers@motorstaff.com.au1300 666 562George HennessyMANAGING DIRECTOR

THREE HONDA DEALERS WIN EXCELLENCE AWARDS

BRINKWORTH JOINS MMAL AS WA STATE MANAGER

By TERRY MARTINJUST three Honda dealerships from the Japanese brand’s national retail network of 108 outlets have received Dealer Excellence Awards for their performance in 2014, down from 13 a year earlier.

Adelaide’s Dave Potter Honda in Glenelg South picked up its fifth consecutive award to become the only dealership to have reached the mark every year since the ‘Excellence’ program replaced the previous state-based Dealer of the Year awards in 2010.

Brisbane’s Southside Honda in Woolloongabba made it two in a row, while Blue Ribbon Honda in Yamanto, Ipswich, netted its third award.

In presenting the 2013 awards last

year, Honda named 13 dealerships that had met the qualifying criteria – covering business areas such as sales, service, parts and customer satisfaction – and which finished in the top five of their respective group (one of four, based on sales targets).

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

By TERRY MARTINMITSUBISHI Motors Australia Limited (MMAL) has announced the appointment of Craig Brinkworth as Western Australia state manager, replacing Mark Edmonds who recently moved to Hyundai Motor Co Australia as WA regional general manager.

Mr Brinkworth brings to the position almost 25 years’ automotive industry experience across distribution and retail sides of the business, including 19 years with Toyota in Perth and Sydney and, over the past three years, running the WA operations for Scania.

The Scania role also included serving as dealer principal of the truck and bus manufacturer’s factory-owned dealerships in Perth and Bunbury.

Prior to that, Mr Brinkworth spent a year as a private consultant, having

moved on from Toyota after nine years at Toyota Motor Co Australia (TMCA) and 10 years with the independent Toyota WA Distributor.

He worked at TMCA from 2002 to 2011 in a variety of senior positions, including national manager for franchise planning and market representation, franchise operating standards, and sales and management capability development. In one of his final roles with the company, he oversaw the

development and national rollout of the TUNE dealer management system.

At Toyota WA from 1992 to 2002, Mr Brinkworth started as a distribution analyst before rising through the ranks as promotions and sales administration manager, metropolitan district sales manager and regional network development manager.

By TERRY MARTINAUDI Australia has promoted Jerome Figuiere to general manager of aftersales, replacing Lyndon Bain who recently left the company for personal reasons.

Mr Figuiere has worked for the German prestige brand since 2006, serving as aftersales organisation manager for seven years before taking on the role of business quality manager late in 2013.

This role made him responsible for ensuring the company’s internal and external customer service processes “reflect the high standards of the luxury car-maker, particularly in regards to aftersales”.

He was also responsible for managing and monitoring profitability within the dealer network and for the implementation of Audi’s ‘Dealer Standards’ program.

Audi says that in his new role Mr Figuiere will be responsible for the brand’s entire aftersales organisation, from technical services to customer service and warranty.

The company will be looking to improve its standing in the independent JD Power Australia Customer Service Index (CSI) Study, which measures new-vehicle buyer satisfaction with the aftersales service process.

In last year’s inaugural luxury market survey, Audi was well behind Mercedes-Benz (and the industry average), but ahead of BMW.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

AUDI AFTERSALES MOVE

Craig Brinkworth

Jerome Figuiere

Chris Potter (left), Leisa Stallard and Keith Thornton

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GoAuto New Car Diary

John Mellor’s

Apr 29, 2015 Page 29

GoAuto New Car Diary – brought to you by CarsGuide

Volkswagen unveils all-new Transporter series ahead of launch here later this year

APRLAUNCH FULL NEW CAR DIARY: CLICK HERE

VW’s Polo GTI hot hatch has returned to market, blasting off from $27,490 for a manual gearbox that combines with a high-torque 1.8-litre turbo-petrol engine.

BMW X5 and X6 M

Citroen DS3

Ford Focus ST

Ford Mondeo

Holden Astra GTC and VXR

Holden Cascada

Hyundai i30

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The upgraded DS3 range introduces autonomous braking tech to the Citroen brand, but the light hatch and cabrio no longer have an automatic gearbox option.

By STUART MARTINVOLKSWAGEN has revealed the new-generation Transporter ahead of its arrival here towards the end of the year.

The light-commercial range comprising work vans, cab-chassis utilities and people-movers now offers better fuel consumption with automatic engine idle-stop fitted standard across the range, while VW’s latest accident prevention safety equipment headlines a horde of new features available on the series.

The new design maintains a similar look to the outgoing model, with Volkswagen saying it has “modernised cautiously” the styling of its van clan, but it has sharper lines at the front.

The range has been bolstered by the addition of a Caravelle Highline edition,

which joins the existing Multivan people-mover and commercial models.

All will be powered by a new range of petrol and turbo-diesel powerplants.

The turbo-diesel is a new-generation EU6-compliant ‘EA288 Nutz’ 2.0-litre unit producing 62kW, 75kW, 110kW or 150kW, depending on the variant.

The petrol option, which is an unlikely starter for Australia given our current all-diesel line-up, is a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 110kW or 150kW.

Volkswagen claims the new engines are all about 15 per cent more frugal

than equivalent outgoing models, thanks in large part to the idle-stop fuel-saver system, while other feature additions for the European market – still to be confirmed for Australia – include an adaptive suspension system offering Comfort, Normal and Sport modes.

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