Picking my Favourite three new cars to drive
I won’t lie. I am eager to drive again. Here are my favourite three new vehicles I can’t wait to drive on New Zealand’s roads.
1. Volvo V60 T8 Wagon
The Volvo V60 is the ultimate wagon. Photo: Volvo
I still haven’t driven this in New Zealand but I have been very impressed with Volvo’s resurgence in recent years. I expect with the rapid re-electrification of its range and relative affordability versus the premium German brands, we will see more on the roads.
With the V60, Volvo has aced the ultimate swoopy wagon. It won’t date. The only other wagon that I think is almost as sexy, is the Audi A6 and if you take that in RS6 form then maybe this is the ultimate wagon. They don’t sell it in New Zealand but I love the high riding Volvo V60 Cross Country even more than the standard V60.
2. Land Rover Defender
The all-new Land Rover Defender is due to be launched here in May. Photo: Land Rover
It’s not here yet but I remain excited for the Land Rover Defender. It’s poised for a May release in NZ, although this may push out a little longer.
I found myself on the configurator last Saturday night. Have you tried this? Hands down one of the best configurators out there.
At first I decided to spec a base model D200 with the 2-litre diesel engine, starting at just under $90,000. Very quickly I was at $120,000.
Next I jumped to the Defender X P400 with the 3-litre petrol engine, which, with options blew out to $180,000. It’s easy to get carried away. But short of the Mercedes-AMG G63, a highly specced Defender will be the best “wanna have” SUV.
3. Porsche Taycan
Porsche’s all-electric Taycan sedan. Photo: Porsche
I am totally itching for the Porsche Taycan. I have read such great reviews. This car is a leap forward for Porsche. We are going to go electric at a rapid rate now. Especially when we see how much good Covid-19 is doing for emissions.
Porsche New Zealand had some models ready to go into showrooms but Covid-19 has slowed that down, and production for New Zealand orders were due to start at the Porsche factory by June or July, but that will be pushed back.
I need to see one up close to see if I like the front end. I love the rear profile. The configurator doesn’t do it justice I feel, mainly due to odd paint colours and the pictures.
I suspect the Taycan shows up much better in person.