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The differential has swapped places with the clutch (torque converter in the auto) to allow the front axle to move forward by 154 mm. Audi says this will ensure ideal axle-load distribution.

Audi has also tinkered with the suspension, the new A4 is blessed with a completely new suspension design, one which is mostly made from weight-saving aluminium.

One of the noteworthy technologies in the new A4 is the Audi drive select, a system which can vary the engine, auto transmission, steering and suspension damping characteristics to suit the driver’s need, on the fly.

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Although there is no gain in performance, the limited edition Outlaw improves on features already found in the ST-X.

“The Navara Outlaw Limited Edition enhances D40’s rugged good looks and provides ute buyers with added value, an even more compelling reason to jump aboard.” said Gavin Corcoran, Nissan’s product marketing manager for SUV and commercial vehicles

It gets 17-inch alloy wheels, upgraded stereo with MP3 compatibility and an auxiliary audio jack, Bluetooth mobile connectivity, Outlaw decal, chrome side steps and bonnet protector as well as an alloy nudge bar and fog lights.

The Outlaw will set you back an additional $2,000 over the ST-X diesel, with prices starting from $47,990 for the six-speed manual and $49,990 for the five-speed automatic.

Nissan has not confirmed how many of the Outlaws will be built, but given that 2007 saw Navara 4×4 sales grow by 27 percent, if you’re after a value packed Navara, now is the time.

Nissan currently holds 22 percent of the total 4×4 ute market.

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You might be thinking, well that doesn’t look that new! And you’re right, the only exterior change is the addition of a bonnet scoop for the new intercooled turbo-diesel engine.

The intercooled YD25 turbo-diesel engine produces 98kW at 3600rpm and 304Nm of torque from 2000rpm - this is down from the previous generation’s 3.0-litre diesel that managed 110kW and 314Nm, although that was noticeably thirstier. In comparison the Navara D40’s powerplant makes 126kW and 401Nm.

The new diesel engine is a 16-valve, double overhead cam with second-generation common rail technology for lower emissions and improved fuel economy. Nissan has also installed a variable nozzle turbocharger as well as a brand new balancer system for better refinement.

The added intercooler sits ahead of the radiator, allowing for better air intake and hence more power at lower range. The compression ratio is now 16.5 to 1.

As with the majority of the latest Diesel engines on offer from the Japanese, the D22’s fuel economy is impressive. The 4×2 single cab drinks only 7.3L/100km, while the 4×4 single cab makes do with 9.1L/100km and the 4×4 dual cab ST-R comes in at 9.2L/100km.

Suspension is taken care of by double-wishbone and an anti-roll bar at the front, with the back-end riding on a solid rear axle with leaf springs and a limited slip differential. Towing capacity is 1500kg (braked) for the 4×2 and 2800kg (braked) for the 4×4.

The single 4×2 variant gets the basic essentials, with power steering, single in-dash CD player, air conditioning, dual front airbags and ABS as standard. Moving up, the 4×4 line-up starts with a base single cab DX from $30,690. An additional $500 will get you dual front airbags and front seatbelt pretensioners (highly recommended).

Going up to the dual cab ST-R variant, buyers will receive, in addition to the single cab equipment, standard dual front airbags with ABS, an alloy sports bar, side steps, front bucket seats and 16-inch alloy wheels.

• 4×2 single cab DX - $22,490
• 4×4 single cab DX - $30,690
• ST-R dual cab 4×4 - $38,490.

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The 135i Sport is powered by the same 3.0-litre twin turbo straight-six engine found in the 335i and pumps out 225kW and 400Nm. BMW says the new engine will manage rapid fire acceleration and impressive economy as well as low emissions.

The 135i Sport will do the 0-100 km/h dash in just 5.3 seconds, with torque available from as low as 1,300 rpm all the way to 5,000 rpm, thanks to its twin-turbos.

If twin-turbos is not really your thing, the 1 Series Coupé model line-up will further include the 125i, which makes do with a 3.0-litre in-line six-cylinder engine that will make 160 kW of power and 270Nm of torque. The 125i will go from 0 to 100 km/h in a very respectable 6.4 seconds.

More details on the range will be available closer to the release date in May.

Pricing for 1 Series Coupé Range:

• 125i with 6-speed manual transmission $54,400
• 125i with 6-speed Steptronic automatic transmission $57,200
• 135i Sport with 6-speed manual transmission $71,400
• 135i Sport with 6-speed Steptronic automatic transmission $74,200

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Toyota was quick to point out that this is not just a standard ute with a turbocharger, the TRD HiLux also features upgraded suspension, brakes and styling for a total performance package.

The Japanese company says the new performance ute will be just as practical as it is sporty.

“TRD HiLux is a great workhorse vehicle during the week for transporting tools, hauling a trailer and coping with the roughest terrain. When the weekend arrives, its performance and handling can be used by the whole family - carting dirt bikes and other gear, or towing a boat.” Toyota regional manager Sean Hanley

The TRD HiLux joins its sedan brother the TRD Aurion to complete the current TRD line-up.

More info to follow…

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