Styling My New Oz 500s

[Piccolo Nero e Bella]

Modern windscreens, in my understanding, block most UV rays, so the marketing of clear UV for windscreens is a sell job, just like paint protection that dealers plug hard (knowing that I still bought the paint protection anyway! )

That seems to be borne out by this document from VicRoads on window tinting. Interestingly enough it doesn't appear to ban film altogether (as I would have expected) as long as it permits a certain level of transmitted light.

www.wfaanz.org.au/LiteratureRetrieve.aspx?ID=24213

I believe laminated windscreens have UV blockers to protect the vinyl layer sandwiched in the glass.

 

[Bella500]

Here are some pics of my new 500s.
It's a week old and I'm delighted with its performance and handling.
In Australia the S is only available with a 1.4 petrol engine, either with a DL or 6sp manual. I chose the latter.
It's a cheaper car here than in the UK and I optioned it up with sunroof, leather, 16" wheels and Xenon lights.
Driving lights and bumpers are standard. Gets better and better with every kilometre.View attachment 139998View attachment 139999View attachment 140000View attachment 140001

Humm...lovely

 

[Bella500]

I never received any follow up calls from the sales people either. On the other hand I've been back with issues so often I'm on first name terms with all the service guys!

What have been your issues?

 

[Piccolo Nero e Bella]

What have been your issues?

Two clutch hydraulic leaks (tow jobs both), misaligned bonnet, failed boot microswitch, detached weatherseal in boot and stop/start not working (not yet fixed). Sounds like a short list but most items required waiting for parts, loan cars and additional visits to finally cure.

 

[Bella500]

Two clutch hydraulic leaks (tow jobs both), misaligned bonnet, failed boot microswitch, detached weatherseal in boot and stop/start not working (not yet fixed). Sounds like a short list but most items required waiting for parts, loan cars and additional visits to finally cure.

How long have you had the car and did you get it from new?

 

[Piccolo Nero e Bella]

How long have you had the car and did you get it from new?

Yes it was new, it's just gone 12 month's now, so at least everything's been fixed under warranty. Bit of a letdown after a lifetime of Mazda reliability though. Have to admit my partners 500C Pop has been faultless (except for the same boot weatherseal issue which was easily fixed.

Have you had any problems?

 

[Piccolo Nero e Bella]

How long have you had the car and did you get it from new?

Ah! I didn't realise you were still waiting for yours...!