Hudson's Good Reputation

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXVI, Issue 23281, 25 February 1939, Page 12 (Supplement)

Hudson's Good Reputation

AMONG the heavy cars marketed f\ in New Zealand, the Hudson has 'a good reputation for rugged reliability. The models for 1039 bid fair to enhance that already proud record, offering as they do numerous attractive improvements, designed for safer and more comfortable motoring. Tested this week, one of the first new cars to come off the rack, gave an easy display of its capabilities, and left a pleasing impression. There is beauty in a smooth but unpretentious way in the new Hudson. Like the majority of -American cars for this year, exterior design has been concentrated on the, radiator grille and additional vents in the ]ow, sweeping wings. In this respect, the Hudson has a dFfferent, but equally striking style. It has also resorted to the placing of the headlights right out in the wines, but the wisdom of this move, as in all cases, must yet be tested. - One will find no lever or grip, with Which to open the Hudson bonnet from the outside. The locking gear for this purpose is located under the cowl, to the left of the pistol-grip hand-brake, and operated by the driver. It is a completely effective means of locking the engine from unauthorised prowlers, with-

DISTINCTIVE IMPROVEMENTS FOR 1939

in tlio production of these good 3 for a world market, the paper adds, and down relied on ganging engine speeds, and the gears could then be operated smartly and cleanly. I)e luxe models are provided with an. electrical gear-changing device, also placed on the steering column, which works as a pre-selector. Radio is also a standard equipment in the Hudson. The ribbon dial occupies the centre of the instrument panel, and can be easily manipulated by driver or passenger. The car has a distinctive horn. All instruments surrounding this dial are in keeping with its rectangular design. The clock-t'aco speedometer, directly under the driver's eye, is balanced by an electric clock on the door of a spacious parcel compartment at the opposite side of the dashboard. Upholstery is finished in sturdy moquette, leather being an additional feature.. The seating is well placed and extremely comfortable, and arm rests are fitted all round. Behind the rear fob there is a large shelf, handy for stacking parcels or gear if the rest of the car is occupied. However, for-touring purposes, the rear luggage compartment would amply accommodate a full case for everyone in the car. j Hudsons continue to follow the conventional front-wheel springing system, but with pronounced success. The car is very steady on bad surfaces, although ft is inclined to sway out on corners. The steering is scarcely as light as in some other new cars recently tested, but the brakes are equal to any vet provided on any car. Should the hydraulic system fail at any time, mechanical brakes immediately come into play, ensuring absolute safety. Models in the Hudson range offered in Auckland include t\vo sixes and two eights in both saloons and.coupes. They are priced from £406 to £794, for the 112 and 129 respectively, while the 118 costs £586 and the 122, £751. The serial figure for the various models refers to the wheelbase of the car concerned.