If you haven’t had a chance to catch up on all the big automotive news this week, here are some cheat notes to help you cram for all the car talk that may dominate conversation wherever you may end up this weekend.

Holden released its first big new import as it transitions from a manufacturer to negative contributor to the country’s balance of trade. Curiously, the ANCAP figures for the new Opel built Astra only apply to two of its three variants, with the entry-level Astra R not being rated. But is it unsafe? Nah, but Holden salespeople may sweat in their microfiber suits when they try to explain it all to potential customers.

2017-Holden -Astra

One car the Astra will be up against is the all-new Volkswagen Golf, which is coming to showrooms later next year with new driver aids, a new ‘Evo’ engine, and advanced infotainment systems with available gesture control. There will also be more powerful GTi models.

2017-Volkswagen -Golf -Facelift
2017-AC-Cobra
Shane -Van -Gisberg