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Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics

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TorquePress

Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics

Last updated: 7 March 2026

1. Introduction

These Editorial Guidelines outline the standards for all writers, contributors, and editors working with TorquePress.

TorquePress is an independent automotive publication focused on vehicle reviews, comparisons, ownership advice, automotive gear, and driving culture.

Our goal is to publish content that is accurate, practical, and trustworthy for drivers researching, buying, and owning cars.

These guidelines are informed by the principles of:

  • The Media, Entertainment & Arts Alliance (MEAA) Journalist Code of Ethics

  • The Australian Press Council (APC) standards

2. Editorial Independence

TorquePress operates independently.

Editorial decisions are never influenced by advertisers, sponsors, or manufacturers.

While manufacturers may provide vehicles for testing or invite media to events, these arrangements do not affect editorial conclusions.

Sponsored or branded content will always be clearly labelled.

3. Accuracy & Fact Checking

All published content must be accurate, fair, and clearly presented.

Contributors are expected to:

  • Verify vehicle specifications and technical details

  • Confirm pricing where possible

  • Ensure quotes are accurate and in context

  • Use credible and reliable sources

If errors are identified, they will be corrected promptly and transparently.

Headlines and social posts must reflect the article content accurately and avoid exaggeration.

4. Fairness & Responsible Coverage

TorquePress aims to provide balanced and respectful coverage of vehicles, manufacturers, and industry topics.

Our reviews and comparisons aim to highlight both strengths and weaknesses of vehicles in real-world conditions.

Content must not include discriminatory or offensive language relating to race, gender, religion, age, disability, sexuality, or other protected characteristics.

5. Advertising, Sponsorship & Conflicts of Interest

There must always be a clear separation between editorial content and advertising.

Sponsored content will be clearly labelled using terms such as:

  • Sponsored Content

  • Paid Partnership

  • Advertiser Feature

Contributors must disclose any financial or personal interests related to the subject of their content.

Advertisers and partners do not influence editorial reviews or conclusions.

6. Vehicle Review Standards

Vehicle reviews published on TorquePress are written by our editorial team or trusted contributors and are based on real-world driving impressions and research.

Manufacturers may provide vehicles for testing or invite media to press events. This does not influence our editorial opinions.

Specifications, pricing, and availability are correct at the time of publication but may change. Readers should confirm details with manufacturers or dealers before making purchasing decisions.

Reviews represent the editorial opinion of the writer and are intended to help readers make informed decisions.

7. General Advice Disclaimer

Content relating to vehicle ownership, maintenance, modifications, or driving advice is provided for general informational purposes only.

Vehicle performance, maintenance requirements, costs, and regulations can vary depending on location, model specifications, and individual circumstances.

Readers should confirm details with manufacturers, mechanics, or relevant authorities before acting on information published on this website.

TorquePress accepts no liability for decisions made based on general advice content.

8. Originality & Attribution

All published work must be original.

Plagiarism or uncredited use of other publications’ work is not permitted.

Third-party data, quotes, statistics, and images must be properly attributed, and copyright laws must always be respected.

9. Photography & Media

Images and video must represent vehicles accurately and must not be manipulated in a misleading way.

Manufacturer-supplied media may be used when appropriate and will be credited where required.

User-submitted photos or media will only be used with permission.

10. Social Media Conduct

Contributors representing TorquePress online must maintain professional and respectful behaviour.

Social media should not be used to:

  • Spread misinformation

  • Attack individuals or brands

  • Share confidential editorial material

Public communication should reflect TorquePress’ commitment to fair and responsible journalism.

11. AI Use in Content Creation

AI tools may be used to assist with research, drafting, or editing.

However:

  • All AI-assisted content must be reviewed by a human editor

  • Facts must be independently verified

  • AI must not fabricate quotes, reviews, or data

  • AI must not be used to impersonate people or brands

Contributors remain fully responsible for the accuracy and originality of their work.

12. Core Editorial Values

TorquePress is guided by five core principles:

Integrity
Editorial independence from commercial influence.

Accuracy
Clear, factual, and well-researched information.

Transparency
Clear disclosure of partnerships and sponsored content.

Fairness
Balanced coverage of vehicles and the automotive industry.

Practical Value
Content that helps readers make informed decisions about cars.

13. Corrections & Accountability

If an error is identified, it will be corrected promptly.

Reader feedback and complaints are reviewed by the editorial team and may result in:

  • Corrections

  • Clarifications

  • Content updates

14. Updates to These Guidelines

These Editorial Guidelines may be updated periodically to reflect changes in publishing standards, technology, or editorial practices.