Four Kiwi mates will travel 16,500km together across 20 countries, five mountain ranges and three deserts in a "farcically small" car as part of an international charity event.

Toyota Racing Series points leader Canadian Lance Stroll left Hampton Downs after the weekend's racing with a wry smile.

Jacqui Madelin checks out a beautiful Japanese classic, the 1973 Mitsubishi Colt owned by Michael Burgess. Photos / Jacqui Madelin

Hyundai have launched their entry into the luxury car market, the Hyundai Genesis. Photos / Ted Baghurst

The Simworx racing simulator can mimic vehicle movements to provide a highly realistic simulation experience. Video / Supplied

V8 Supercars driver, Jason Bargwanna , drives the Simworx racing simulator imported from Melbourne by Rangiora mechanic Chris Ward. Video / Supplied

Australian V8 Supercars driver Jason Bargwanna drives around Mt Panorama on the racing car simulator imported into New Zealand.

People who live beside Auckland's Southern Motorway are subjected to air pollution at nearly double the level of those 130m further away, research shows.

Kiwis came to the fore during round two of the Toyota Racing Series in scorching heat at Teretonga Park over the weekend.

Jacqui Madelin tests the Suzuki DR200 for Driven Magazine. Photos / Jacqui Madelin