General Motors has revealed the looks of its all-new Chevrolet Camaro Spring special edition, which is set to make an official debut at the Speciality Equipment Manufacturers Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas.
Fans invited to name 2015 Chevrolet Camaro Spring special edition
The model is yet to receive an official name, and Chevrolet is inviting enthusiasts to name the special-edition Camaro that will go on sale in the first quarter of 2015. Suggestions can be submitted at twitter.com/Chevrolet and at facebook.com/chevycamaro, using the tag #NameThatCamaro.
Clothed in striking Emerald Green Metallic exterior with Cyber Grey rally stripes, the Chevrolet Camaro Spring special edition will be offered in coupe and convertible models with 2SS trim and will be fitted with 21-inch alloy wheels, body-colour hood extractor, a ground effects package and a ZL1-sourced rear spoiler.
Chevrolet further added an RS Appearance Package which comes with HID headlights, LED taillights and a revised grille. The interior of the Camaro gets elusive changes boasting black leather seats and Graphite Silver trim.
Optional equipment will include a sunroof, dual-mode exhaust (except export models), navigation radio and Chevrolet Performance short-throw shifter.
Power will come from a 6.2-litre V-8 rated at 318 kW and 569 Nm in models with the standard six-speed manual transmission, and 298 kW and 556 Nm for models equipped with the six-speed automatic transmission.
The Chevrolet Camaro Spring Special Edition is said to go on sale in the first quarter of 2015, while its official name will be announced at SEMA.
Next Generation Opel Astra OPC Confirmed For 2017 Launch
Its been announced that the next generation Opel Astra will be introduced sometime in 2017.
According to officials at Opel, the new OPC will do away with the four-cylinder 2.0-litre turbocharged unit for a smaller 1.6-litre engine that will deliver around 209 kW. The model is also said to drop as much as 150 kg from its total weight, compared to its predecessor which weighs 1475 kg.
More details on the next generation Opel Astra OPC can be expected to be announced over the next few years, close to its official debut.
*Note: Pictured is the Opel Astra OPC Extreme.
Chevrolet Spark 1.2 LS (2014) Review
With its roots in the Daewoo Matiz of the late 90’s, the Chevrolet Spark has grown up considerably over the last decade and is currently Chevrolet’s best-selling passenger car in South Africa. Packaged as a small city car with a host of standard features and an attractive pricing structure for those on a budget, the little Sparky is selling well in an increasingly cash-strapped market.
I spent a week with the 2014 Chevrolet Spark 1.2 LS manual in Armour Grey to see how it fares in this competitive segment.
Looks Count
Standing 3 640 mm in length, 1 597 mm wide and 1 522 mm high, the Chevrolet Spark 1.2 LS is small and compact and makes up for its size with vastly improved styling over its predecessors. Along with 14-inch alloy wheels, the front-end styling features a new dual-port grille with chrome surrounds and fog lamps as well as sharper, re-designed headlights.
Towards the rear, the roof rails, roof spoiler and high-set rear lights give the little Sparky some added edge and the hidden rear door handles are a nice design touch. With its updated styling, the Spark will in all likelihood shake off negative perceptions of the past and increase its appeal to a younger market.
Spark (less) Interior
On the inside, the Chevrolet Spark LS comes with a fair amount of features including cloth seats, height adjustable steering wheel with mounted audio controls, front and rear electric windows, a 4-speaker CD Radio with MP3 capability, USB and auxiliary ports as well as Bluetooth capability.
However, the interior styling may not be to everyone’s taste. The cloth seats in combination with contrasting plastic detailing on the doors and dashboard makes the interior look a bit tacky and the speedometer and trip computer are oddly placed directly behind the steering wheel for a squashed effect which can be quite distracting while driving. The seats offer very little support but are relatively comfortable for the average sized person, but larger and taller passengers may find the interior to be a bit cramped.
To be expected in a car of this nature, the boot is on the small side, but space can be increased by folding down the 60:40 split rear seat. Storage space in the driver’s cabin is limited to three cup holders, in-door storage and the glove compartment. That said, a centre storage compartment would’ve been more than welcome.
Cheeky Drive
Powering this Chevrolet Spark LS model is a 1.2-litre, in-line four-cylinder petrol engine that produces 60 kW and 108 Nm of torque. Around town, the Spark LS is in its element and with the help of a smooth-changing 5-speed manual transmission, the Spark nips around with ease for a vehicle of this size. Despite its dimensions the Spark feels sure-footed on the road and is quite nimble between robots making for a cheeky drive in the city.
The Chevrolet Spark is the type of car that needs to be driven enthusiastically to get the most out of the engine and at highway speed the Spark starts to sound a little rough, especially when pushed to its limit. Engine noise is something you’ll have to get used to, but thankfully road and wind noise is kept to a minimum. The overall drive is relatively smooth with less body roll compared to the Mitsubishi Mirage reviewed in August. As a daily city runabout, the Chevrolet Spark does its job well.
A big selling point for the Chevrolet Spark is its fuel consumption, claimed to be 5.4-litres/100 km on the combined cycle. I drove this test model for a week and barely used a quarter tank, which is rather impressive considering the distance travelled. Depending on your travelling requirements, the Chevrolet Spark will cut your fuel costs, which is a bonus if you’re a student, or a pensioner.
This Chevrolet Spark LS model comes fitted with driver and front passenger airbags as well as ABS with EBD, manual air-conditioning and remote control central locking fitted as standard.
Chevrolet Spark 1.2 LS – Verdict
The 2014 Chevrolet Spark is decent. Its improved exterior styling and standard goodies will make it that much more attractive to potential buyers. The drive is sufficiently comfortable for everyday use within the city, but longer trips may be taxing on the driver and passengers. The low fuel consumption is a big plus and if you can look past some of the interior flaws, the Chevrolet Spark is sure to provide many years of cheap, hassle-free motoring. Even so, the little Sparky is up against some stiff competition in this segment and buyers will be wise to compare the Spark with its competitors.
Second Opinion
The Chevrolet Spark is often a forgotten competitor in the B-segment rivalry. It’s actually quite spacious and well specced inside in this LS version. Price is competitive but the likes of the Ford Figo and the VW Polo Vivo seem to have won consumers favour. – Ashley Oldfield
Chevrolet Spark – Price in South Africa
The Chevrolet Spark 1.2 LS tested here is priced from R137 400. The lower spec Spark 1.2 Campus is priced from R115 900 and the and the Spark 1.2 L is priced from R126 900. The high-spec Spark LT price starts at R149 800. For cheaper options you can also consider the Spark Pronto from R112 000 and the entry-level Spark Lite from R101 200.
Porsche is adding four GTS models to its 911 lineup, including the second generation 2015 911 GTS which will be available as a coupe or convertible with rear- or all-wheel drive.
More power and driving dynamics
The GTS is equipped with a 3.8-litre six-cylinder boxer engine rated at 316 kW. The model will additionally be fitted with a PDK dual-clutch transmission that will help the coupe accelerate from standstill to 100 km/h in 4.0 seconds while the convertible will complete the same task in 4.2 seconds. Top speed for all four GTS variants sits at over 300 km/h, the fastest at 306 km/h is the Coupe with a manual transmission and rear-wheel drive.
Additional technical details that help generate even more driving dynamics include the Sport Chrono package and the PASM active damper system which lowers the car’s ride height by ten millimetres.
2015 911 GTS design details
Designed to close the performance gap between the Carrera S and the track-focussed 911 GT3, the 2015 911 GTS features bi-xenon headlights with the Porsche Dynamic Light System as well as an exclusive Alcantara interior with leather trimmed sports seats.
The GTS is further differentiated from other Carrera models by the extra-wide body borrowed from the 911 Carrera 4, as well as 20-inch wheels with centre wheel locks which are painted in an exclusive matte black, while black accents are found on the front air intakes, rear diffuser and rear decklid.
Porsche has announced the 2015 911 GTS will hit the German market from next month. South African availability is yet to be confirmed.
The High Performance Drive-E Powertrain Concept is based on a set of technologies which are not usually found in a four-cylinder engine.
The new engine features two parallel turbos which are fed by an electrically-operated turbo compressor, and instead of pushing compressed air into the cylinders, the compressor is used to spool up two parallel turbochargers. Fuel is fed by a dual fuel pump working at 250 bar pressure, and Volvo adds that this setup enables a very dynamic drivability without any turbo lag, compared to a mono-turbo.
We have already seen the companys twin-charged two-litre engine (supercharged and turbocharged) in production, while the new T6 Drive-E that replaced the inline-six can be seen in the S60, V60 and XC60, producing over 224 kW, while also on the brand new XC90, the T6 powerplant is rated at 239 kW. However this new triple-charged two-litre four-cylinder petrol engine prototype is set to be a more powerful variant that produces ‘no less than 335 kW.’
‘When we launched the Drive-E powertrain family, our aim was to deliver the most advanced 4-cylinder engines in the industry based on emissions and fuel consumption relative to performance and drivability,’ says Dr. Peter Mertens, Senior Vice President for Research and Development at Volvo Car Group.
‘We knew that 239 kW in our petrol configuration was just a starting point. The 335 kW High Performance Drive-E Powertrain Concept, demonstrates this ambition and the versatility of the Drive-E Powertrains.’
At present, the engine is still in the concept phase but Volvo is working closely with AVL and Denso, as well as its performance partner Polestar to further develop the technology.
Volvo shows 335 kW four-cylinder 2.0-liter engine
New 2014 Nissan X-Trail Driven
Hot off the back of the Nissan Qashqai launch, Nissan South Africa has launched the new X-Trail. The X-Trail sits above Juke and Qashqai and appeals to the family that requires a bit more space in their SUV with aspirations of off-road adventure holidays. Previously the X-Trail sold on its rugged looks and comfortable ride together with the practicality of a mid-to-large size SUV. Now though, the X-Trail has softened up its appearance but claims to be just as capable off-road with more features and even more practical.
Space is up
The overall length and width of the new X-Trail remains very similar to the outgoing model but the major change is the wheelbase. The new model has a 75 mm longer wheelbase and Nissan says that this makes more room inside the cabin for people. It does, rear legroom is ample and the seats have the ability to slide forward and recline for added comfort and adaptability.
The rear seats can be folded flat as well upping load space considerably. The front passenger seat can also be folded rearwards, that should please canoe enthusiasts or long-boarders who dont like to carry their toys on the roof. The new X-Trail has the option of seven seats but that obviously reduces boot loading space when they are in use. Boot space in the seven-seater is 135-litres whilst the standard five-seater has 550-litres.
Engines
Nissan has introduced the X-Trail with two petrol engines and one diesel. The petrols are both naturally aspirated and come in 2-litre – 106 kW, 200 Nm, two-wheel drive guise or 2.5-litre – 126 kW, 233 Nm, all-wheel drive. The 2-litre feels a little sluggish up at altitude where the launch took place, but Nissan seems assured that new turbocharged variants will become available in the near future.
The 2.5-litre was only available to drive for a short time on the off-road course that had been set up for us to test the X-Trails skills on. Theres a rotary dial to swap the all-wheel drive X-Trail from two-wheel drive to all-wheels drive and a quick press of the VDC (traction control) button and youre ready to crest mounds, descend ravines with hill-descent control and enjoy life in the great outdoors. The X-Trail proved capable over the course and the electronics did a good job of sending power to the correct wheels when traction was lost.
The pick of the engine range though is the 1.6-litre turbodiesel. With 96 kW it might not sound like much, but its teamed with 320 Nm of torque and that gives the X-Trail sufficient shove that it needs to be capable on road.
Ride and Drive
The X-Trail has maintained its comfortable ride and feels smooth on the road. Its one of the great features of a SUV that isnt trying to be sporty, you get a comfortable ride and a vehicle thats not averse to the odd bump or pothole in the road. Steering is acceptable, its well-weighted and complete with multi-function controls for the radio and cruise control.
In standard format the interior looks a little plain with a basic radio setup, air-conditioner, USB and Bluetooth compatibility. What you really want is the optional Techno Pack that pumps up the kit you get. The pack includes a seven-inch touchscreen, Navigation, around view camera, Smartphone integration, blind-spot monitoring and moving object detection.
Nissan X-Trail Pricing
The Nissan X-Trail comes in at a competitive entry price that competes with the likes of the Ford Kugaand Chev Captiva if you want seven seats. Prices start at R327 700 for the 2-litre petrol and go up to R473 600 for a fully-loaded 1.6-turbodiesel. See the full pricing here. The Nissan X-Trail appears to be a competent, comfortable and spacious option to the family that wants the option to go off the beaten track.
New Infiniti QX70S Design Shown Off In Paris
The covers have been lifted off the new Infiniti QX70S Design which was shown off at the Paris Motor Show and is said to go on sale in some European markets this month.
Sporty and elegant QX70S Design features
Labelled as the “antidote to SUV boxiness and blandness,” the model is according to Infiniti, designed to add a definite bad-boy spirit to the elegant sportiness of the QX70, and build on its provocative, design-led ethos.
Adding a more aggressive look to the QX70S Design is the dark chrome trim on the grille, foglight surrounds, side air scoops, side sills and rear number plate surround. The crossover also features black mirror caps, tinted headlights and 21-inch alloy six-spoke alloy wheels with a black finish.
The black theme continues inside where you will find black lacquer trim on the centre console and purple contrast stitching on the black leather seats, steering wheel, armrest and door trims.
Specifications of the model remain a secret for now, but the company mentioned the model will be offered with powerful V6 engines in either petrol or diesel forms, as well as come with an advanced chassis, balanced handling, and precise steering and gear control.
The Infiniti QX70S Design range is said to go on sale in selected countries in West Europe immediately following its premiere at the Paris Motor Show.
South African availability is yet to be confirmed, however for now, customers can purchase the Infiniti QX70S Black Edition range which is available from R777 630.
*Pictures from AutoBlog
New Nissan X-Trail Finally Introduced In South Africa Specs and Prices
Nissan has disclosed pricing for the all-new Nissan X-Trail which was revealed about a year ago at the Frankfurt Motor Show and arrives in SA in an eight-model range, including two-and four-wheel drivetrains, five or seven seats, petrol and diesel engine options as well as manual or Xtronic CVT transmissions.
Our Journalist, Ashley Oldfield is currently on the local launch, look out for his driving impression this week.
For more on the design and equipment of the X-Trail click here.
Engines and drivetrain
Headlining the engine line-up will be four new X-TRAIL derivatives – in XE, SE and LE specification. They will be available in an all-new 1.6-litre direct-injection turbocharged diesel engine delivering 96 kW at 4 000 rpm and 320 Nm of torque at 1750 rpm.
Mated to a six-speed manual gearbox and with the choice of two- or four-wheel drive, the engine returns a combined fuel consumption of 5.3-litres/100 km with CO2 emissions of 134 g/km.
The petrol variants will comprise of two 2.5 SE derivatives, available exclusively with Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), four-wheel drive and either five or seven seats. Power will come from a normally-aspirated multi-point injection petrol engine producing 126 kW at 6000 rpm and 233 Nm of torque peaking at 4000 rpm.
The range-topping 2.0-litre direct injection normally aspirated petrol engine produces 106 kW at 6000 rpm and 200 Nm torque at 4400 rpm. All 2.0-litre derivatives will be available with either five or seven seats, and exclusively with a six-speed manual gearbox.
Fuel economy is rated at 8.3-litres/100 km, with CO2 emissions of 197 g/km.
New Nissan X-Trail price in South Africa
Nissan X-Trail 2.0 XE 6MT R 327 700
Nissan X-Trail 2.0 XE 6MT (7 seats) R 334 100
Nissan X-Trail 2.5 SE Xtronic 4WD R 364 200
Nissan X-Trail 2.5 SE Xtronic 4WD (7-seat) R 370 600
Nissan X-Trail 1.6dCi XE 6MT R 351 000
Nissan X-Trail 1.6dCi XE 6MT (7-seat) R 357 400
Nissan X-Trail 1.6dCi SE 6MT 4WD R 388 300
Nissan X-Trail 1.6dCi LE 6MT 4WD R 473 600
The all new Nissan X-TRAIL models come standard with Nissan’s new class-leading 6-year/150 000 km warranty and a 5-year/90 000 km service plan which includes roadside assistance as standard.
New Entry Level GWM H5 City Offered In SA Specs and Prices
GWM has added a new entry level H5 City vehicle with all the quirks of an SUV but at an affordable compact crossover rate.
Uncompromised design
The rugged looking H5 City features 17-inch alloy wheels, comprehensive colour coding, integrated indicators in the side mirrors and a tailgate spoiler. The model also offers a near-200 mm ground clearance.
Inside you will find piano-black plastic trim, silver accents throughout the cabin, a new centre console with integrated twin drink holders, as well as modernised controls for the audio and climate systems.
The model additionally boasts a large boot and a full-size spare-wheel (fitted under the vehicle) and a 2700 mm wheelbase which contributes to the spacious rear legroom.
Standard equipment includes climate control, radio/CD with USB/aux support, front and rear fog lamps, rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlights, and dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, Isofix rear child seat anchorages, electric windows all-round, electrically adjustable side mirrors, rake-adjustable steering wheel and remote central locking.
Engine details
Under the hood of the H5 City is a 2.4-litre four-cylinder 4G69 petrol engine that delivers 100 kW at 5 200 rpm and 200 Nm of torque at 4 000 rpm. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a five-speed manual transmission, while fuel consumption is rated at 10.3-litres/100 km.
GWM H5 City price in South Africa
GWM H5 City R244 900
The H5 City will be available with a comprehensive five-year/100 000 km warranty and comes standard with two-year/24-hour AA roadside assistance. A five-year/60 000 km service plan is available at any of GWM’s dealerships.
Volkswagen Golf Alltrack Displayed In Paris
The Volkswagen Golf Alltrack has had its world premiere at the Paris Motor Show featuring a number of technical and visual innovations, including a 4MOTION all-wheel drive system.
Four powerful engines
Power comes in form of a TSI petrol engine and three diesel engines, which are all powerful turbocharged direct injection units.
The 1.8-litre TSI petrol unit is rated at 134 kW with 280 Nm of torque. The diesel units comprise of a 1.6 TDI with 82 kW and 250 Nm, a 2.0 TDI with 119 kW and 340 Nm of torque as well as a 2.0 TDI with 137 kW and 380 Nm of torque. Power for the most powerful diesel and petrol engines is transferred to the all-wheel drive system via a standard six-speed dual clutch gearbox (DSG).
4MOTION all-wheel drive system
According to Volkswagen, the model brings the best from the SUV and estate segments that also combines the Variants practicality with the added capabilities of the 4MOTION all-wheel drive system with Haldex coupling.
The Alltrack also benefits from an electronic differential lock built into the ESC electronic stability control system and acts as a differential lock at both axles. Theres also an XDS system optimizing steering feedback by braking the wheel inside the turn when a dynamic driving stance is adopted.
Volkswagen Golf Alltrack design features
The new Golf Alltrack is based on the Golf variant, but adds a more rugged appearance with a +20mm increase in ride height. It additionally features black plastic body cladding together with new beefier 17-inch Valley alloy wheels and aluminium protection plates on the front and back.
The interior styling of the car is defined by details such as a leather trimmed steering wheel and gear shift lever, custom seat covers with the “Alltrack” badge on the backs of the front seats, accents in “Dark Magnesium” (centre console) and “Tracks” (dashboard and interior door trim) as well as ambient lights in the door trim.
Other standard features include automatic climate and cruise control, LED reading lights for the front and rear seats, lights in the front footwell areas, “Composition Touch” infotainment system, and a Driver Alert system.
Volkswagen has announced the Golf Alltrack will go on sale across Europe next summer. Whether or not the Volkswagen Golf Alltrack will be sold in South Africa is yet to be confirmed.
