by 15-inch "Manta" alloy wheels as standard, two-tone paint finish and body-coloured exterior mirrors, front grille and door side mouldings. The TJ series was the subject of a number of rolling updates, beginning in May 2001 spearheaded by an upgraded VR-X range, followed by that of September 2001 affecting all models including the Verada range (officially known as the MY02 series) and culminating with the TJ and KJ Series 2 in July 2002. In 2002 and 2003, the TJ series was also bolstered by the Magna Ralliart and by the Magna and Verada AWD range, respectively. With the KJ Series 2 update, MMAL launched the limited-run Verada GTV, which used drivetrain components of the Magna Sports and VR-X. This subsequently became a permanent model rebadged as the Verada GTVi from March 2003. Total production of the TJ and KJ series as at the end of 2001, reached 43,492 units with 19,215 exported to the US, New Zealand, Puerto Rico and the Middle East (where Magna also ended up served as an Iraqi police patrol cars). The most notable award won by this series was the Diamante's title of New Zealand's Car of the Year for "Best Large Car". In 2001, a Magna TJ Sports won Class D of the GT Production Showroom Showdown Race at Bathurst and a V8-powered RWD Magna contested the V8 Future Touring class of the 2000–01 Australian Super Touring Championship. The Magna VR-X was voted the best-value performance car on the Australian market by a News Limited panel of motoring journalists. May 2001 update From May 2001, coinciding with the launch of the Magna VR-X Limited Edition, MMAL distanced all VR-X models from the Sports by equipping the former with unique five-spoke 17x7-inch alloy wheels shod with 225/50 Bridgestone performance tyres. Furthermore, the suspension was modified with higher rate springs, revised shock absorbers and a new front sway bar. Cosmetically, both the Magna Sports and VR-X were fitted with black brake callipers, black interior door handles, black inserts in the exterior door handles, and revised headlight units now featuring clear turn bezels (as opposed to the original amber). Magna VR-X Limited Edition With build and wholesale between May and June 2001, this vehicle was marketed as the "VRX-tra". It featured the above exterior upgrades plus interior upgrades that were part of a "Leather Pack" offered in two parts. The optional "Pack 1" included: Unique black fabric/Howe