The 2015 Honda CR-V has officially been unveiled, boasting a slightly refreshed exterior meant to make it look more aggressive and bolder.
Bold styling and major upgrades made to the 2015 Honda CR-V
Honda has announced the 2015 CR-Vwill go on sale from October 1. The company further said in a statement that the new aggressive and bold appearance with unique Honda style portends the significant enhancements made to the 2015CR-V.
Key details on the crossover are yet to be released, however its rumoured the model will change over from a conventional automatic to a continuously variable transmission which will be connected to a 2.4-litre Earth Dreams four-cylinder engine that develops 138 kW and 221 Nm of torque.
Other rumoured updates are said to include the companys latest tech, such as the smartphone powered HondaLink system and a side-view mirror camera based LaneWatch safety technology.
Honda has promised full details will be released on 30 September 2014.
All-New BMW 520d Now Available In South Africa
The BMW 520d sedan is now officially available in South Africa sporting new generation of four-cylinder diesel engines with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology.
New four-cylinder diesel engine
The 520d gains a new four-cylinder two-litre TwinPower Turbo diesel engine that delivers 140 kW and 400 Nm of torque. This is a power increase of 5 kW and 20 Nm of torque.
According to BMW, the extra output, more instantaneous power delivery and high-revving character go hand in hand with not only greater fuel economy but also a reduction in weight of around two kilograms over the outgoing engines.
In addition, the effectiveness of the turbochargers has been enhanced by a new roller bearing and extremely effective and need-based exhaust gas recirculation. The newly designed heat exchangers for the exhaust gas flow have a compact construction and optimised cooling performance, which leads to an effective reduction in maximum combustion temperatures.
More driving pleasure and low fuel consumption
Additional improvements come from the updated eight-speed Steptronic transmission which needs just 7.7 seconds to complete the 0 – 100 km/h task, a 0.2 second improvement from the sedans predecessor.
Furthermore, fuel consumption has been reduced by as much as 0.4L/100 km. The sedan now burns just 4.74.3L/100km with CO2 emissions of 109119 g/km, depending on the tyre format fitted.
Other notable features which add to the engine improvements include the vacuum-operated bypass valve, which allows a higher proportion of uncooled exhaust gas to be fed into the engine while it is warming up. Theres also the common rail direct injection systems new solenoid valve injectors which ensure the engine uses even more precise quantities of fuel. These injectors allow increased injection pressure of up to 2000 bar, which paves the way for extremely economical and, at the same time, clean combustion.
All-new BMW 520d price in South Africa
BMW 520d – R624 500 (From BMW SA’s website)
Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Concept-S Previewed
Following a teaser image revealed earlier this month, Mitsubishi has officially revealed the Outlander PHEV Concept-S ahead of its debut which will happen at this years Paris Motor Show.
Outlander PHEV Concept-S details
Described as a special design package for the regular Outlander PHEV first shown at the 2012 Paris Auto Show, the concept features new front-end styling along with a new set of headlights, a modified bumper and a chrome radiator grille as well as a newly designed set of alloy wheels.
The interior of the Outlander PHEV Concept-S benefits from a red and black theme with black woodgrain trim with silver accents and leather seats, as well as a new centre console finished in black.
Measuring 4.76 m in length, 1.84 m wide and sporting 1.7 m wheelbase, the concept will be equipped with a plug-in hybrid EV system. The front and rear axles are powered by permanent magnet synchronous motors, connected to the 12 kWh lithium ion battery which is charged by a 2.0-litre four cylinder DOHC MIVEC engine.
The full reveal of the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Concept-S will happen on October 2 at the 2014 Paris Auto Show. We drove the normal Mitsubishi Outlander in the snow and were impressed with its performance.
Renault Megane GT Turbo (2014) Review
Renault South Africa is on a roll at the moment as its stock is flying out of the showrooms and numbers are up from 2013 in a huge way. The Clio, Dusterand the new Sandero are its big sellers and generally speaking Renault has struggled with shifting bigger models out the door. Think about the Laguna Coupe, Koleos and to an extent the Megane has begun to slide down the sales charts. Its time then for a refresh and thats what weve got with this Megane GT Line and specifically this GT Turbo variant.
What is a Renault Megane GT Turbo?
The Renault Megane GT Turbo is a medium to spicy hot hatch, but without any of the associated performance looks. Sort of like a wolf in sheeps clothing. On the outside it looks like a standard Megane GT Line, its got the facelifted bumper kit on the front, darkened door handles and the side mirrors look identical to the 1.2-litre version of the GT Line. Look a little closer and youll note it has 18-inch wheels, GT Turbo badging sneakily placed on the front and rear and a small red number 220 placed between the side windows. 220 refers to the brake horsepower figure, but we know it as 162 kW.
Does it go?
It feels just like its big brother the Megane RS when you boot it off the line. It has less power, but theres the same induction grunt from the front, teamed with a roaring exhaust note from the back. Its exciting to listen to and very addictive. Pace wise its no match for the RS, but its still capable of a 0-100kph time of 7.6 seconds and thats plenty of speed to keep you entertained. Economy has been improved with the reduction in power from the RS so the GT Turbo consumes around 7.3L/100km. Over the week with us we mostly saw figures of 8L/100km and above, but that included some spirited driving.
Any Other Improvements?
The interior has had a slight makeover with the newest introduction being the tablet-shaped touchscreen on the dashboard. It can be controlled via touchscreen or through the toggle switch behind the gear lever. Initially it isnt the most intuitive system to get the hang of and Ive never been particularly fond of the TomTom navigation system thats built in.
The rest of the interior is pretty much as you were with the older Megane and the GT Line gets some nice cloth/leather seats that come with a heater button thats very well hidden down the side of the chair. This GT Turbo gets sport dials for the instrument cluster as a bonus as well. Room all around the Megane is pretty good and the good news is the whole range is available in coupe two-door format or hatchback four-door variant.
Whats it like to drive?
It’s a lot of fun. The GT Turbo rolls on the same chassis as your standard Megane RS. In the Megane RS its a pearl for driving fun with no compromise. In the GT Turbo though, its a bit more biased towards comfort. It doesnt feel as rock-hard stiff as the RS and has a result probably doesnt corner as fast, but youll never notice the difference unless you put it on a track or back-to-back them. The sharp turn in is there from the steering, the car still feels amazingly agile, but it will understeer eventually. The traction control system is a killjoy as it cant be turned off fully and re-engages at low speeds automatically. The rest of the driving parts are exceptional fun, the brakes are sharp and return great feel through the pedal as does the steering.
Verdict
The Megane GT Turbo represents a fun and particularly good value prospect for the enthusiast on a budget. The GT Turbo is also the cheapest car you can buy in SA with 150kW or more. The interior updates have made it more modern and returns healthy spec sheets. The likes of USB, Bluetooth, Navigation and five-star safety systems are standard throughout the range. It wont leave wishing youd bought the RS version, both as it provides similar thrills in the handling and performance departments and saves you R70k over the RS.
Second Opinion
The new Renault Megane GT is a well-balanced performer. Not only are you getting RenaultSport performance from the 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, but you’re also getting the RS chassis. Admittedly it’s geared towards comfort, but that won’t stop you from charging about like a wannabe racer. The TomTom HD Live navigation isn’t the most intuitive, but when you get the hang of it it’s terrific and I liked the live traffic jam updates. Best of all, it’s a standard feature. Top marks from me for this fast Frenchman.
Renault Megane GT Turbo quick specs
Price
R329 900
Engine
two-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol
Power
162 kW
Torque
340 Nm
Transmission
Six-speed manual
Wheels
18-inch alloys
0-100km/h
7.6 seconds (claimed)
Fuel economy
7.3L/100 km (claimed)
We like:
. Performance bargain
. Addictive driving personality
. New higher specification
We dislike:
. Traction control dampens the fun
. Infotainment system is difficult to get to grips with
The RenaultClio Initiale Paris trim has officially been introduced at home in France, ahead of a proper debut scheduled for early next month at the 2014 Paris Motor Show.
New trim package for Clio supermini
The Initiale trim adds features such as sleeker LED daytime running lights which have been moved from the centre grille into the headlights, and a sports exhaust tip as well as unique fog lights. The redesigned 17-inch alloy wheels are now available in either ivory, grey or black frost finish.
The interior has also been updated with a two-tone upholstery with “Initiale Paris” lettering found on the steering wheel and seats. Extra equipment such as a panoramic roof and optional spare wheel comes at extra cost.
The Renault Clio Initiale Paris base model is equipped with a three-cylinder 0.9-litre TCe turbocharged engine delivering 66 kW, while the bigger 1.2-litre TCe with a six-speed EDC gearbox delivers 88 kW. The 1.5-litre dCi diesel variant produces 67 kW and can be mated to either a five-speed manual gearbox or an EDC.
The Renault Clio Initiale Paris will be presented during the 2014 Paris Motor Show next month. Could this be a potential facelift for the best-selling South African Clio? We should find out soon.
Toyota C-HR Concept Official Images Shown
Toyota has released two images depicting its C-HR concept scheduled to debut next month at the 2014 Paris Motor Show.
New compact SUV destined for production
The company says the C-HR concept previews a new C-segment SUV, which is not only a further development of Toyota’s Under Priority and Keen Look design identity, but also introduces new styling themes which hint at a future design direction for Toyota vehicles.
Details are still scarce at this point, but the concept is said to preview a compact crossover to sit alongside the RAV4 and will be equipped with a hybrid drivetrain. Its also said to feature a diamond styling theme, sensual cabin profile, with the lower bodywork sculpted to represent the facetted surfaces of a highly-durable, precision-cut gemstone.
More details and more images of the Toyota C-HR concept will be released early next month at the 2014 Paris Motor Show.
Vencer Sarthe Claims Supercar Credentials
The unknown manufacturer Vencer has produced its first motor car to the public. The company is Dutch so it was never going to be something ordinary or bland and they havent disappointed with this Vencer Sarthe super car.
Vencer Sarthe Supercar Performance
The car is named of the Le Mans Circuits official name Circuit de la Sarthe and is nothing short of break-neck in every department including price.
The Vencer Sarthe harnesses the power of a 6.3-litre supercharged V8. Together they are able to produce 457 kW and a mammoth 838 Nm of torque.
The vital statistics on the Vencer Sarthe make for impressive reading. Zero to 100kph comes up in just 3.6 seconds and the top speed bursts through the 200 mph mark to settle at 210mph or 337kph.
Using a mixture of tubular steel, carbon fibre and aluminium, Vencer has got the weight of the Sarthe down to just 1 390 kg or less than a VW Golf R.
Production is very limited and at the moment Vencer can only pump out one Sarthe a month. They do cost the equivalent of R3 million however.
Renault Eolab Concept Promises 1L/100km (Video)
The Renault Eolab concept, scheduled to have its world premiere next month at the Paris Motor Show, also previews innovative technology from the company that is destined to be introduced on production Renault’s from now until 2020.
Technological innovations
According to Renault, the Eolab has an active front spoiler and active rear flaps which open to cool the brakes and close to reduce drag. The concept further has an asymmetric three-door layout and a drag coefficient of just 0.235. It also has an active suspension which automatically adjusts the ride height to minimize drag.
A weight saving programme brought the Renault Eolabs concept’s mass down to 400 kg thanks to a multi-material body shell combining steel, aluminium and composites, as well as a remarkable magnesium roof that tips the scales at barely 4kg. The concept also has a magnesium roof, ultra-thin windscreen glass and a lightweight interior.
Inside, the model is fully equipped with four leather seats and a floating centre console. Theres also an 11-inch touchscreen tablet that was inspired by Renaults production R-Link system and controls most infotainment functions and as well as provides real-time updates on how efficiently the car is being driven. Lights inside the car also change colour according to driving style.
In addition, the digital height-adjustable instrument cluster situated in front of the driver features two smartphone-sized screens which display car data and navigation information. While the cars side mirrors are replaced by cameras, which feed directly into screens mounted close to the windscreen pillars.
Z.E. Hybrid powertrain
Power to the Renault Eolab Concept is provided by a Z.E. Hybrid powertrain that consists of a 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine, a 6.7 kWh battery and a clutchless three-gear transmission with an integrated electric motor. The engine produces 57 kW and 95Nm of torque, while the electric motor develops about 50 kW and 200Nm of torque. This setup allows the concept to deliver 1-litres/100 km and have an electric only range of 60 km.
The Renault Eolab concept won’t be going into production, however Renault says the concept has 100 new and realistic technological developments that are designed to be introduced gradually on upcoming Renault vehicles.
Renault Eolab Concept Video
Range Rover Evoque SW1 Special Edition Announced For Paris
Land Rover has announced it will officially unveil the new Range Rover Evoque SW1 Special Edition at the upcoming 2014 Paris Motor Show.
Special editions inspired by Britain
Dubbed as the “first in a series of ‘Inspired by Britain’ special editions from Jaguar Land Rover,” the SUV is offered in Loire Blue, Santorini Black, Fuji White, Firenze Red or Corris Grey, along with a Fuji white roof and 20-inch alloy wheels with Fuji finish.
Stylish Union Flag graphics feature on the rear spoiler and the white door mirror housings, while white tick decals also adorn the bodywork – changed to red for the Fuji White paint option.
The cabin continues the theme with Taurus Ebony leather upholstery, door inserts, arm rests and facia trim picked out with contrast Cirrus stitching and anodized red accents. The crossover is additionally fitted with a unique gear knob (manual models only), special sill plates and unique floor mats. There will also be a Monochrome variant based on the Evoque Pure and features monotone Union Jack graphics.
Land Rover says that besides the new Range Rover Evoque SW1 Special Edition, the Evoque can now be ordered with a laser head-up display, which has been created in order to resist sunlight and to deliver “superior colour saturation, brightness and contrast compared to rival systems.”
The Evoque SW1 is said to go on sale globally in mid-October. South African availability is yet to be confirmed.
Volvo XC90 R-Design Unveiled
Following the reveal of its all-new XC90 late last month, Volvo has come back with a sporty R-Design version of the much talked about SUV.
R-Design is created for people with a passion for things that add spice to life, said Alain Visser, Senior Vice President Marketing, Sales and Customer Service of Volvo Car Group.
It appeals to customers that love active driving and a personal, expressive design. Every single R-Design detail is designed to contribute to the individualistic and refined expression these customers desire.
Distinctive R-Design styling
Design wise, the aggressive looking Volvo R-Design is highlighted by a modified grille and lip spoiler, silk metal window surrounds, integrated silver roof rails and integrated dual exhausts, as well as matte silver side mirror covers. There are also two types of 20-inch R-Design alloy rims.
Inside the cabin, the SUV is equipped with new sports seats, steering wheel paddles, and a steering wheel with perforated leather and sports pedals, as well as unique floor mats and groovy illuminated tread plates. The model also comes with an exclusive R-Design leather key remote control and a unique theme for the 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
New trim level
There are no specifics yet on the engine line-up, but Volvo says its new range of Drive-E units will be available, including the 293 kW plug-in hybrid model.
Volvo further explained the R-Design will be positioned above the entry-level Momentum and will serve as a sportier alternative to the more luxury Inscription variant.
“In principle, we have replaced the previous top level with the Inscription and R-Design versions. Both of them feature an elevated content, carefully chosen to emphasise each of their distinctive individual personalities, commented Alain Visser, senior vice president, marketing, sales and customer service of Volvo Car Group.
The Volvo XC90 R-Design is said to be available from October this year with deliveries expected to start in May 2015. South African availability is yet to be confirmed.
