X marks the spot
While many car manufacturers set out to cater for all sectors of the market, it’s fair to say that Subaru has “stuck to its knitting”.
As the top selling model for Kia Motors, the arrival of the 2016 Sportage SUV is timely considering New Zealand's current love affair with this type of vehicle.
Drawing on a pedigree that saw the Sportage become the first compact SUV on its introduction in 1996, the outgoing model went on to sell 1.6 million vehicles in 2010-2015.
The fourth-generation 2016 model is bigger, more sophisticated and offers higher levels of comfort and technology. Its new look has lots more 'presence' -- the headlights are located higher and combine with the 'tiger-nose' grille to create a distinctive frontal aspect. A redesign sees a 30mm increase in wheelbase, an overall lengthening of the vehicle by 40mm and a swept back rear spoiler which reduces overall drag, but more importantly results in more room for passengers and luggage. Inside, high quality, soft touch materials are used throughout, and leather is the favoured upholstery on all models except the entry level LX version.
For power, the choice is between three engines: a 2L petrol that puts out 114kW / 192Nm torque, a 2.4L delivering 135Kw / 237Nm, and a 2L diesel developing 136kW and a gnarly 400Nm.
A redesigned fully independent suspension system and electric power steering are tuned specifically for NZ conditions, refining the handling, ride comfort and stability. These and the interior improvements greatly reduce noise and vibrations.
As with any new model introduction, safety is to the forefront, seen in a raft of model dependent inclusions such as blind spot detection, lane change assist, rear cross traffic alert and a forward collision warning system. Then there is satellite navigation, a reversing camera, rear parking sensors, a panoramic roof, Xenon HID headlights and a hands-free powered tailgate function.
These features bring the Kia Sportage bang up to date and will find favour with those looking for a fully specified compact SUV.
New Zealand milk production is off to a strong start, with the first month of the 2025/26 dairy season recording a whopping 17.8% jump in milk production, compared to the previous season.
With adverse weather set to rain down on the Top of the South, the Bay of Plenty and parts of Northland, Agriculture Minister Todd McClay says farmers, foresters, and growers need to prepare for possible challenges.
Keep up with innovation and e-commerce in China or risk losing market share. That was the message delivered at the China Business Summit in Auckland this month.
Meat Industry Association (MIA) independent chair Nathan Guy says getting meat processors involved has been a shot in the arm for the sector's key marketing initiative into China, Taste Pure Nature.
Listed carpet manufacturer, Bremworth is undertaking a $6 million expansion at its Napier plant more than two years after the site was heavily damaged by Cyclone Gabrielle.
Federated Farmers is vowing to keep the big banks accountable for their actions and to continue pushing for meaningful change in the rural lending sector.
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