Movie Star Cars
Two very different but iconic cars have just been released at Cricks Noosa. Both cars have a long and proud history, including many cameos on the silver screen. We engaged some local stars to see what they thought.
JEEP JL WRANGLER RUBICON 2.2L
JASON COX, RESTAURATEUR, Copperhead Brewery & O-Ren Brewhouse
I’m a big Jeep fan and have had my Wrangler for around 18 months. I love how rough and tumble they are, yet extremely versatile. I can take my wife Sharon and her mum anywhere in comfort but also throw some kegs in the back and go up the beach. This latest model is next level; I can already feel the increased power under my feet yet the car is somewhat lighter. It’s definitely got a bit more under the bonnet.
The interiors have really been stepped up with a lot more sophistication. It’s still rough and ready but better inside, more refined and it’s quieter on the road. There are USB and power outlets everywhere, all the technology you would expect with Apple Carplay and Android Auto connectivity. The new off-road systems are a bonus and the Hard Top Freedom panels are lighter and very easy to remove; as are the doors and fold-down windshield. There is nothing precious about this car, it’s designed for play, everything is waterproof and you can even pull the carpet out and hose it all out if you need.
With more capability, better fuel consumption and increased safety such as electronic stability control, hill descent control and hill start assist, airbags, rear cross path detection – it’s not surprising that Jeep has won its ninth consecutive SEMA 4×4 of the Year award.
Wrangler is the most iconic 4WD having been around since 1941. This is a car for those who like to have fun. It’s no wonder that it has appeared in films such as Jurassic Park, Dukes of Hazard and Charlie’s Angels – it really was born to be wild.
WHAT I LIKED
• Powerful 209KW engine with 2.2L MultiJet II Turbo Diesel ESS
• Removable hard top with Freedom Panels
• 8-speed automatic with four-wheel drive
• Winch-Capable Steel Front Bumper
FIAT 500 SPIAGGINA ’58 LIMITED EDITION
RIO CAPURSO, RESTAURATEUR Localé Noosa
I love this car, it is very cool. It really speaks to the year that it was modelled on: 1958. Every detail has been considered from the colour to the 16” vintage design alloy wheels. It brings back memories of the beaches in Italy with the name “Spiaggina” meaning ‘little beachʼ. The chrome bumper trims, door mirrors, fog lights, the side mouldings and the vintage 16″ alloy rims provide this car with an impeccable, sophisticated look. The vintage Fiat logos and Spiaggina ‘58 Rear Badge ensure the car is unmistakable, with old-fashioned appeal.
Yet it still has all the mod-cons such as Apple carplay, Bluetooth, a 7-inch touchscreen and instrument display; auto climate control and electric windows and roof.
The original colour of volare blue has been kept and together with the white trim, reflect the colours of the Mediterranean. Even the ivory piping on the seats is a nice touch. The soft-top roof is great how it effortlessly winds back fully to expose the stunning Noosa sky. It is surprisingly roomy for a small car and very easy to handle. The fuel efficiency is great with just over four litres for 100kms it must be one of the cheapest cars to run. The price is very good for what you are getting and it is low maintenance as well, only requiring an annual service or every 50,000kms.
Overall, this is a very cool car with retro-modern interiors and really speaks to its heritage. This car has starred in many movies from James Bond to The Italian Job and cinematic classic, La Dolce Vita. It is an old-style Italian classic with modern technology.
WHAT I LIKED
• An Italian classic with modern technology
• Easy to handle with generous space
• Fully convertible roof with electric motor
• 16” Vintage Design Alloy Wheels
• Fuel efficiency
You can test drive and buy Jeep and Fiat in Noosa at Cricks Noosa.
