This week on Overdrive, host David Brown and transport planner Brian Smith dove into a mix of transport news, vehicle launches, quirky motoring language, and road tests — all delivered with a sharp eye for detail and a healthy dose of humour.
When Government Reports Speak in Code
Transport for NSW’s Interchange Access Plan at Sydenham drew criticism for its verbose, jargon-heavy language. While the 43-page report outlined sensible upgrades — better footpaths, bike lanes, safer crossings, improved bus stops, and clearer signage — its planning-speak masked what could have been a straightforward message.
Brian noted the common issue of using professional jargon (“adaptive reuse”) instead of plain English, and the tendency to focus only on positive outcomes rather than explain the full implications. AI tools, they agreed, can be helpful for distilling these documents — but only if you know the right questions to ask and still check the results for accuracy.
The Rise of the Light Commercial Vehicle
Sydney hosted Australia’s first Light Commercial Vehicle Show, highlighting the growing importance of last-mile freight delivery in urban areas. This shift is being fuelled by the boom in online shopping and workplace deliveries.
Brian pointed out that bicycles (especially electric-assisted cargo bikes) are increasingly part of the freight mix, with Sydney establishing hubs to transfer goods from vans to bikes for inner-city deliveries. The conversation also touched on the challenge of loading zones and the oversized “American-style” trucks now marketed in Australia.
Safety Ratings – The Fine Print Matters
ANCAP awarded the Cupra Terramar a five-star safety rating, while Peugeot’s 3008 and 5008 hybrids scored only four stars due to missing features like a centre airbag and marginal side-impact protection. The discussion underscored the need to look beyond the star rating to the reasons behind it — whether it’s occupant safety, pedestrian protection, or driver-assist limitations at night.
Nissan Ariya – Specs & Positioning
Nissan confirmed local pricing for its upcoming Ariya electric SUV, due in September. With two battery options (up to 504 km range) and DC fast charging, the Ariya promises solid range and performance. Brian and David debated its design distinctiveness — noting that from the side, it’s hard to tell apart from other mid-size SUVs — and questioned the industry’s obsession with 0–100 km/h times.
Suzuki Fronx – Filling a Questionable Gap
Suzuki’s first all-new nameplate in over a decade is a small SUV hybrid that slots between the Jimny and the Ignis. While marketed as a “frontier crossover” blending ruggedness and sleekness, both presenters questioned how much of either it actually delivers.
The mild-hybrid system’s impact appears modest, and fuel consumption data didn’t separate urban from highway figures — a key metric for city buyers. Still, the Fronx wins points for a practical interior, a simple head-up display adjustment button, and value pricing starting at $28,990 plus on-road costs.
From Healey Nostalgia to SUV Spotting
A Facebook post from David about spotting two rare Aston Martin DBX SUVs on a Sydney coastal walk sparked comments about the proliferation of luxury SUVs. This led to a broader lament about once-sporty marques producing high-riding models to chase market demand.
Car Speak – The Terms We Get Wrong
With help from Hagerty’s newsletter, Brian and David explored motoring terms often misused or misunderstood:
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Shock absorbers vs. dampers
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VIN number (redundant)
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Trafficators (old pop-out indicators)
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Bonnet vs. hood, boot vs. trunk
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And the enduring petrol vs. gasoline debate
Road Test – Toyota Tundra Limited
The Toyota Tundra Limited is massive — 11% longer and 30% heavier than a HiLux. It’s clearly aimed at towing and passenger comfort rather than carrying large loads, with much of its extra length going to rear seat space. While smooth to drive and well-suited for towing horse floats, it’s part of a growing trend toward oversized pickups styled to mimic American trucks.
David’s only real gripe? Struggling to find the 12V plug hidden behind the infotainment screen — a reminder that sometimes it’s the small usability touches that matter most.