In this episode David Brown and Paul Murrell take a wide view of motoring history, shifting global car strategies and the arrival of new contenders. Highlights include a look back at Peter Brock’s broader influence, the revived Mitsubishi Pajero, Volkswagen’s brand decisions, a Chatswood street parade that contrasts classic and electric supercars, China’s transport transformation, and a detailed road test of the GAC M Zoom.
Peter Brock’s wider legacy
Twenty years on from his death, Peter Brock is remembered not only for Bathurst victories but for rallying skill and road-safety advocacy. His famous “05” identity, motorsport achievements and public-facing work have left an influence that extends beyond racing into broader Australian motoring culture.
Mitsubishi Pajero returns
The Pajero name makes a comeback with a design that nods to its heritage, diesel engine options and genuine off-road hardware. Conversation touched on the model’s Dakar rally history, the curiosity of its name and the retention of classic instrument styling that links to its past.
Global car industry shifts
Manufacturers are changing strategy, moving away from pure volume chasing toward profitability, regional production and greater flexibility. The rise of EVs and hybrids, shifting tariffs and evolving markets are reshaping where and how companies invest and build cars.
SEAT, Cupra and Volkswagen
SEAT’s future looks uncertain as Volkswagen increasingly leans on Cupra. The overlap between brands, rising costs and strategic repositioning reflect how VW has drifted from its original “people’s car” role into a more complex multi-brand structure.
NSX, EVs and Chatswood
A Chatswood street parade paired a classic Honda NSX with a modern EV, underscoring the cultural shift in motoring. The contrast highlighted supercar history, the tactile appeal of manual-driving icons and the different practicalities and sensations of electric vehicles.
China’s transport transformation
The discussion compared China’s steam-era railways with today’s high-speed network to illustrate the extraordinary pace of transport development. The rapid industrial and infrastructure change over recent decades has transformed how people and goods move across the country.
GAC M Zoom road test
The GAC M Zoom impresses as an affordable small SUV with strong equipment levels, attractive cabin presentation and good highway fuel economy. However, testers noted quirks in the dual-clutch behaviour, frequent driver warnings and the limitations posed by a developing dealer and service network, which buyers should weigh against its value.