Embracing the Future: Extraordinary Luxury Meets Innovation at LANDMARK by Lexus

Posted: 09/10/2023

As the confluence of Japanese and Australian landscapes and sensibilities merge, the much-anticipated LANDMARK by Lexus returns to the famed Flemington Racecourse in 2023. This exclusive pavilion, characterised by its sophisticated and elegant design, offers not just the best view of the Flemington Racecourse front straight, but also an array of culinary delights, entertainment, and the warm hospitality synonymous with the Japanese tradition of omotenashi. In its sixth year as the Principal Partner of the Victoria Racing Club (VRC), Lexus Australia continues its proud tradition of offering unique experiences, showcasing the melding of opulence and elegance with sustainability and organic production. This year, LANDMARK by Lexus pays tribute to Takumi craftsmanship, under the theme ‘Close to the Source’, celebrating the beauty and rarity of natural materials and genuine ingredients. Koichi Takada Architects have exclusively designed the LANDMARK by Lexus exterior, making a grand statement with the pavilion’s awnings fusing Japanese and Australian landscapes. The structure naturally integrates the best of both vistas, with the terraced awnings echoing the curvature of rice fields and softening the angular lines of the base building. Upon entering, guests of LANDMARK by Lexus are greeted by the Lexus Electrified Sport, a stunning futuristic sports car making its Australian debut. It perfectly embodies modern luxury, with pure materials crafted into works of art, set against striking floral arrangements. Inside, the pavilion consists of three distinct levels, each showcasing a synergy of sustainability and exceptional design. Australian restaurateur, Luke Mangan, is the culinary maestro behind the Lexus x Luke Mangan dining experience,… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CARS, CITIES, MELBOURNE

Tags: Landmark Lexus, lexus

Ford’s Ranger plug-in hybrid: the future of power and performance

by James Banham

Posted: 06/10/2023

It’s time to supercharge your adventures with Ford’s new Ranger Plug-in Hybrid. This powerhouse of a vehicle is set to redefine the standards of power, performance, and sustainability in the pickup segment. The Ranger Plug-in Hybrid is not just any ordinary vehicle — it’s a mobile power station on wheels! Equipped with Pro Power Onboard, this truck offers the unique ability to power tools and appliances by plugging them into outlets embedded in both the cargo bed and the cabin. Forget about lugging around noisy, bulky generators on your worksite or remote campsite. With the Ranger Plug-in Hybrid, you have on-demand electricity right at your fingertips, freeing up more cargo space for other gear and equipment. But the innovation doesn’t stop there. The Ranger Plug-in Hybrid also gives you the flexibility to decide how and when to use the EV battery power, thanks to its EV drive modes. Whether you’re navigating city streets or exploring rugged terrains, the selectable drive modes help optimize performance based on your driving conditions. And, let’s not forget about the proven four-wheel-drive capability that has made Ranger a favourite among off-road enthusiasts. Coupled with advanced driver safety and driver assist features, the Ranger Plug-in Hybrid ensures a safe and confident journey, no matter where the road takes you. “The Ranger Plug-in Hybrid will help our customers move into an electrified future, with the confidence and capability that only Ranger can provide,” says Andrew Birkic, President and CEO of Ford Australia. “Ranger Plug-in Hybrid will join the Ford Australia line-up as… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CARS

Tags: ford australia, Ford electric, ford Ute

About the game-changing, electrifying Ford Mustang Mach-E

by James Banham

Posted: 06/10/2023

Buckle up, Australia! Brace yourself for an electric revolution on four wheels! Ford is introducing the Mustang Mach-E to its local line-up, a vehicle that doesn’t just promise but delivers an exhilarating drive and the longest range in its class. The Mustang Mach-E is a testament to Ford’s commitment to innovation and electrification, featuring a robust 91kWh battery paired with a single 216kW/430Nm electric motor. This powerful combination provides close to 600km of range-anxiety free driving, allowing you to take on the open road without worrying about your next charging stop. But there’s more where that came from! The Mach-E GT, Ford’s performance-oriented variant, also employs the same high-capacity 91kWh battery. However, it ups the ante with dual electric motors delivering a staggering 358kW/860Nm to all four wheels. This results in an impressive driving range of 490km and an electrifying 0-100km/h sprint of just 3.7 seconds! Yes, you heard it right! Upon its arrival, the Mustang Mach-E GT will be the fastest accelerating vehicle in Ford’s local showrooms. To enhance the GT’s performance, it incorporates MagneRide® suspension and performance brakes, offering a thrilling driving experience. Not to mention, it comes with an exclusive Untame Plus drive mode, designed solely for track use to optimize power delivery and unleash the GT’s true potential. Step inside the Mustang Mach-E, and you’re greeted with an interior that oozes comfort and luxury. The centrepiece is a whopping 15.5-inch infotainment screen equipped with Ford’s compelling SYNC4 operating system. Coupled with a 10.2-inch digital cluster, wireless charging, and a heart-thumping 10-speaker… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CARS

Tags: ford australia, Ford electric, Ford Mach e, Ford Mustang

The Game-Changer: MG4 Electric, Australia’s First Affordable EV

by James Banham

Posted: 11/08/2023

MG Motor Australia has made a ground-breaking announcement that is set to revolutionise the automotive industry: the launch of Australia’s first electric vehicle (EV) under $40,000. The new MG4 Electric, starting at an industry-leading $38,990 (+on road costs), is an all-electric hatchback designed to offer affordable, zero-emissions motoring without compromise. This announcement comes as the popularity of EVs continues to skyrocket across the country. The MG4 Electric is not just a budget-friendly option; it’s a high-quality vehicle packed with features. From the 10.25″ multi-function colour touch screen to the MG Pilot Driver Safety Technology, this hatchback is designed to deliver an exceptional driving experience. The MG4 Electric is available in four specifications: the MG4 51kWh Excite, MG4 64kWh Excite, the MG4 64kWh Essence and the MG4 77kWh Essence (Long Range). With battery capacities varying from 51kWh to 77kWh, the MG4 Electric offers a range of 350km to 530km on the WLTP cycle. The launch event, hosted at the South Sydney Rabbitohs’ new $15M Heffron Community & High Performance Centre, was a spectacle featuring player appearances from Souths stars Tom Burgess and Tom Sutton. Embodying the electric energy of the MG4, the event marked a significant milestone for both MG Motor Australia and Australian motorists. Peter Ciao, CEO of MG Motor Australia and New Zealand, heralded the MG4 as setting a “new standard for electric vehicles in Australia.” He stated, “our MG4 is backed with a 7-year warranty and has received a five-star ANCAP safety rating, ahead of local deliveries beginning this month. We’re excited for… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CARS

Tags: Australia EVs, Best EVs, electric vehicle, mg, Should I get an EV

A technical look at the new Ford Everest Ambiente car

by James Banham

Updated: 26/05/2023

First things first; I am not a technical car person, BUT, the new release of the Ford Everest Ambiente in Australia is such an approachable drive, it deserved the time. So, without further ado, let’s get under the bonnet (sorry) of what’s actually up with the new Ford Everest Ambiente and discuss the real question: should you buy one? Technical Review of the Ford Everest Ambiente in Australia The Ford Everest Ambiente is a rugged and reliable SUV designed for the Australian market. Here’s our technical review of this impressive vehicle: Engine and Performance The Ford Everest Ambiente comes with either a 2.0-litre bi-turbo four-cylinder engine producing 154kW/500Nm or a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 in the Sport and Platinum model grades. The Ambiente also features an advanced Terrain Management System, allowing drivers to choose between several different driving modes to optimize performance on various road surfaces. On top of that, the new Ford Everest Ambiente has a 10-speed automatic gearbox. Safety Features Safety is a top priority for the Ford Everest Ambiente, and it comes with a range of advanced safety features. These include seven airbags, a rearview camera, parking sensors, electronic stability control, and hill descent control. In addition, the Ambiente features Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system, which includes an 8-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and voice-activated controls for added convenience and safety. Interior and Comfort The interior of the Ford Everest Ambiente is spacious and comfortable, with seating for up to seven passengers. The seats are upholstered in durable cloth… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CARS, FEATURES

Tags: ford australia, Ford Everest, ford review, Ford SUV

Talking about cars? Great, but what is torque, anyway

Ford Next Gen Ranger All Models car truck ute

by James Banham

Updated: 22/03/2024

Car torque is a term commonly used by car enthusiasts, but many people may not fully understand what it means. In simple terms, torque is the twisting force that an engine generates. The more torque an engine produces, the more power it has to accelerate a car. Torque is measured in units of force multiplied by distance, such as pound-feet or newton-meters. The force component of torque is the twisting force applied to a shaft, while the distance is the length from the center of the shaft to the point where the force is applied. This means that the longer the distance from the center of the shaft to the point of force application, the greater the torque. Car engines generate torque by burning fuel and air in the combustion chamber. The resulting explosion creates pressure that pushes a piston, which then transfers energy to the car’s drivetrain. The amount of torque an engine produces is determined by many factors, such as engine size, the number of cylinders, and the efficiency of the fuel-air mixture. Car torque is important because it affects a car’s ability to accelerate and tow heavy loads, especially in rugged terrains like those encountered by used cars in Tucson, USA. Higher torque means the car can accelerate faster and more easily pull heavy loads, such as trailers. However, torque isn’t the only factor that determines a car’s performance. Horsepower, which is a measure of how quickly work can be done, is also important. High horsepower combined with high torque will result in… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CARS

Tags: About cars, Torque, What is torque

Exciting news from Ford: the new Mach-E GT is coming to Oz

by James Banham

Posted: 16/04/2023

Ford Australia is set to launch the Mustang Mach-E electric SUV later this year, marking the company’s first all-electric passenger vehicle, they have announced at this year’s Melbourne International Grand Prix at Albert Park. Three different variants of the Mach-E, namely Select, Premium, and GT, will be offered to customers, each designed to provide exhilarating driving experiences with performance and convenience features built-in. At the top of the range is the Mach-E GT, boasting MagneRide suspension and performance brakes, making it the quickest car that Ford will sell locally. Its dual electric motors give it an impressive 0-100km/h sprint of 3.7 seconds and up to 490 km of range. The Premium variant runs on a bigger battery of 91kWh, making it the longest range option with close to 600 km of running on a full charge. The Mach-E’s Untame mode offers a driver-centric experience and adds more fun to your drive. The Mach-E’s interior can comfortably sit five people, featuring a 15.5-inch infotainment system with Ford’s SYNC 4, a 10.2-inch digital cluster, wireless mobile phone charging, and a 10-speaker B&O sound system. All Mach-Es delivered in Australia will come standard with a panoramic sunroof. Ford Australia’s President and CEO, Andrew Birkic, expressed his excitement about the Mach-E’s arrival, saying, “We know Australians love that feeling of driving a performance car, and the Mach-E will mean they can enjoy that iconic Mustang freedom with all the benefits that an EV offers. There’s something special about the Mach-E that you can only really understand once you get… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CARS, CITIES, MELBOURNE

Tags: daniel riccardo, ford, ford test drive, melbourne grand prix, new car

What you need to know about the new Ford Everest Ambiente in Australia

by James Banham

Updated: 20/04/2023

The 2023 Ford Everest Ambiente is one of the most hotly anticipated car releases in Australia. With its cutting edge technology, sleek design and impressive capabilities, this model has made a real splash in the Australian SUV market and it’s easy to see why: it’s just super nice to drive. Big, tall, safe, with all the mod cons that mean you’ll get from point-to-point in top-notch comfort, one of the key selling points of the Ford Everest Ambiente is its innovative features. This model boasts an advanced infotainment system that is designed to make your driving experience more enjoyable than ever before. With a large touch screen display, easy-to-use controls and seamless connectivity to your smartphone, you’ll have everything you need at your fingertips. Another standout feature of the Ford Everest Ambiente is its impressive off-road capabilities. This SUV is built tough, with a robust body and a range of advanced driving technologies to help you navigate even the trickiest terrain. From steep inclines to rocky trails, the Everest Ambiente is designed to keep you safe and in control, no matter where your adventures take you. Under the hood, the Ford Everest Ambiente packs a powerful punch. 2.0L Bi-Turbo diesel engine that delivers 154kW of power and 500Nm of torque (a lot), this model is able to tackle even the most demanding driving conditions with ease. And with a towing capacity of up to 3 tonnes, you’ll be able to take your boat, trailer or caravan on your next adventure. The 2023 Ford Everest Ambiente… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CARS, FEATURES

Tags: ford, Ford Everest Ambient, Ford Everest Ambient review, Ford Everest Ambient test drive, ford review, Fore Everest

Sporty, stylish and speedy: test driving the new MG ZS EV

by Danielle Kirk

Updated: 14/03/2023

MG have taken their beloved ZS compact SUV and extended the range to include a fully-electric MG ZS in two types, the MG ZS EV Excite and MG ZS EV Essence. It’s so exciting to see more electric vehicles (EVs) coming to Australian roads and we got to test drive the gorgeous car. Here’s an honest review about what you need to know about going full electric and how the MG ZS EV Essence performs. I want to preface everything here by saying I am not a car person. The benefits of this are that this will be a very accessible read, because it will all be explained in simple terms as that’s how a newcomer like me (and perhaps you) wants to learn about new things. ELECTRIC VS PETROL CARS ICYMI, petrol prices are through the roof and have been for some time. With rising interest rates and post-covid problems still affecting global imports, not to mention the environmental impact, petrol is best reserved for smaller items like your lawn mower right now. It’s fantastic that we’re seeing so many electric vehicle options come onto the market so people can make the swap to the car that suits them. In a nutshell, petrol cars use an internal combustion engine that turns petrol into force that drives your car, but this torque requires a processing of sorts of that petrol which happens when you hit the accelerator. An electric car on the other hand is kind of always “running”, and the motor provides torque immediately… Read More

Category: CARS, TRAVEL

Tags: car review, electric car, ev, mg car review, mg zs ev, test drive

A 16,000km test drive of the Next-Generation Ranger by Ford Australia

by James Banham

Posted: 11/12/2022

A team of 16 drivers came face-to-face with 1,000km each, putting the Next Generation Ranger by Ford Australia through its paces. From Melbourne to Sydney, to the top of Queensland, through to the Northern Territory, down the West Coast and back across the Nullarbor. Unfolding in a single Ranger, the Unlimited Test Drive saw 16 Aussies test the vehicle’s capability and versatility in every possible environment for work, family and play. Amongst the 16 Australians is Mitch Morrison from Yaroomba, Queensland. A Leaf Gatherer, collecting the best vegetation to feed Australian wildlife. Alongside these stories, the campaign incorporates content that tells Ford’s ownership story and showcases the product and design features that make the Next-Gen Ranger is the most customer-centric Ranger ever. The test drive has made a content series that Ford will release over the course of 2022-2023, giving us unprecedented insight into the car, how it drives and what you can do with it. Alongside these stories, the campaign incorporates content that tells Ford’s ownership story and showcases the product and design features that make the Next-Generation Ford Ranger worthy of anyone with a life they out through its paces. See more about the car at the Unlimited Experiences website, where Ford’s team of ‘Ranger Experts’ are on hand to help you get the most out of your Ranger.

Category: LIFESTYLE, CARS, TRAVEL

Tags: A 16, car test drive, ford, ford australia, ford ranger, ford ranger test drive, Next Generation Ford Ranger