G’Day and welcome to Overdrive, where we embrace the glories of motoring and transport.
I’m David Brown
And we are joined by the studious Paul Murrell from Seniordriveraus.com
More of our thoughts, ideas and ramblings are covered on our website, podcast or social media – just search for Cars Transport Culture
In this program (timings in mm:ss)
- The Demise of Citroen in Australia (00:45)
- Toyota To Bring Back Legendary MR2 And Celica Sports Cars With 400 HP (19:17)
- Listener’s feedback (26:55)
- Roads test – Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross PHEV Exceed (35:47)
- Planning for future generations (39:07)
News story summaries
Citroën is Withdrawing from the Australian Market
Toyota to Bring Back Legendary MR2 and Celica Sports Cars with 400 HP
Citroën is withdrawing from the Australian market. Despite the brand’s long history, unique identity, iconic status, and quirky appeal, Citroën’s sales in Australia dwindled to a mere 12 cars per month, making it unsustainable. Citroën’s struggles contrast with the success of other brands like Toyota and highlight the challenges niche brands face in a market dominated by larger competitors. Citroën’s exit from our market raises questions about the potential future of car design with the rise of electric vehicles. Given that Citroën remains active in other world markets, they might find new life in an evolving landscape.
Toyota is set to revive its iconic MR2 and Celica sports cars, both of which were standout models in their eras. The Celica, first launched in 1970, was seen as a stylish, somewhat “cute” car, while the MR2, particularly its second iteration, borrowed design cues from Ferrari and offered a mid-engine layout. Despite being underwhelming to some, the MR2 has gained a resurgence among younger enthusiasts. The new models, featuring a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with 400 horsepower, are expected to appeal to sports car fans, with Toyota leveraging its scale to offer them at competitive prices.
Listener’s Feedback
It’s the 60th anniversary of the Fiat 850, a beloved Italian car produced in various models, including a coupe, with 2.3 million units made. A listener, James Quinn, shared his experience of owning two Fiat 850 coupes, one of which he has meticulously restored to a high standard, including original Abarth components. The nostalgia and charm of Italian cars like the 850, with stories of their quirks and appeal, are a great part of motoring and lifestyle history.
The picture we have of a fantastically presented 850 at a local motor show, in light of the listener’s comment, raised discussions about the aesthetics of wheels on classic cars and the importance of balancing design with functionality, especially regarding aerodynamics and brake cooling.
Road Test – Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross PHEV Exceed
The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is a small SUV that is now the fourth best-selling Mitsubishi model in the Australian market, following the Outlander, Triton, and ASX. The Eclipse Cross is a more modern version than the ASX, which is in the same class but sold more on price. Mitsubishi’s sales have surged in Australia, with a 169% increase in July and a 56% increase for the year.
The Eclipse Cross, recently improved by removing a rear window design flaw, is a practical, well-rounded vehicle, though not necessarily groundbreaking in any area. Mitsubishi’s strategy of maintaining long model cycles and focusing on a limited range of vehicles has proven successful, making them the fifth best-selling brand in Australia this year.
Planning for Future Generations
David was recently part of a submission to the government regarding rezoning in the Northwest of Sydney, specifically in areas like Kellyville and Bella Vista, which are experiencing pressure for increased housing density due to urban development. The relatively new Metro Line that skirts the area is undoubtedly an efficient step in modernizing the rail system, although it generally services long trips with mainly standing configurations for passengers.
In this regard, there is a broader issue of urban planning, particularly the importance of considering the long-term well-being of city residents rather than just facilitating commutes. The ultimate need is for thoughtful, people-centered city planning that prioritizes quality of life.
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And this has been overdrive
Thanks to
- Paul Murrell
- Mitsubishi Australia
- Mark Wesley
- Bruce Potter
for their help with this program.
You can get more of our work including longer versions of the program on our website, through our podcasts, or more visual information on Facebook, Instagram or YouTube. In all cases search for cars transport culture.
Overdrive is syndicated across Australia on the Community Radio Network
Originally broadcast 24 August 2024
I’m David Brown
Thanks for listening
