Nissan is set to unveil a new concept car at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show, which may preview a future production model for the European market.
The Nissan Sway Concept will supposedly preview the next generation Micra supermini in European specification. The teaser image itself doesnt give much away, except that we can see a U-shaped grille and the sharp-looking headlights with boomerang-shaped DRLs, as well as hints of Nissans new styling principles.
In its press release Nissan confirms that the Sway Concept is a glimpse at how a future generation of small Nissan models could look if the companys striking new design language was applied to a European hatchback.
More details to follow once the car debuts in Geneva.
2015 Subaru Forester Gets New Engine
The 2015 Subaru Forester will now benefit from a new engine and an upgraded interior for the 2015 model year.
2015 model-year updates
The new 2.0-litre Boxer diesel engine is connected to a Lineartronic CVT (continuously-variable transmission) gearbox and an all-wheel drive system, both designed to handle the engine’s 108 kW and 350 Nm of torque.
Acceleration from 0-100 km/h takes just 9.2 seconds, while fuel consumption is rated at 6.1-litres/100 km with CO2 emissions of 158 g/km.
According to Subaru, “characteristics of the transmission have been improved with additional soundproofing, while a manual mode provides drivers with seven pre-set ‘gears’ for greater control of the engine”.
Theres also new glow plugs, new common-rail injection system, updated turbocharger settings, new radiator, oil cooler and radiator fans.
In addition, Subaru engineers have introduced a number of improvements to the interior of the car, which now comes with a new factory-fit 7-inch touchscreen infotainment and navigation system, piano black accents and metallic highlights, revised climate controls and an additional USB input.
The exterior of the 2015 Subaru Forester remains largely unchanged, with the exception of a new shark-fin antenna which replaces the pole antenna found on pre-2015 models.
Comparison: Isuzu KB vs GWM Steed 5E
The bakkie market is one of the most competitive in Southern Africa. I can understand why, bakkies tick most of the boxes in terms of workhorse capability, offroad ability and there’s a nice lifestyle outdoors element thrown in. The market has been dominated by the likes of the Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger, Nissan Navara, Volkswagen Amarok and Isuzu KB series. All of these bakkies are good in their own way and there’s a good chance that regardless of what you buy, you will be satisfied with your purchase. However, we’re in a period where the Chinese have got their act together and are starting to produce products that should have the established brands a tad worried based on pricing alone. I can recall driving my first Great Wall Motors, GoNow, Foton and JMC bakkies back in 2010, and despite some serious flaws, I could see the potential. Fast forward to 2015 and Great Wall Motors could be considered the strongest Chinese brand in South Africa. Its Steed, now in versions 5E and 6, is proving reasonably popular.
Acid Test
How about throwing the Steed 5E into the deep-end by putting it head to head against the locally-built Isuzu KB300 double cab? Pictured here is the KB300 Dteq 4×4. Looks-wise, there’s not much in it, and GWM benefits from plenty of European and American designers that were head-hunted by the brand. Servicing is an issue which many have raised. 'Can we trust Chinese vehicles?' is a question I'm often asked. The answer is a simple yes. GWM is unlikely to pack up overnight. The Steed 5E comes with a 5 year/100 000km warranty and a 10 year Waxoyl Corrosion Warranty. Servicing plans are optional and this is a 5 year/60 000km service plan. It's interesting to note the single-cab GWMs have a 3 year/100 000km warranty. The Isuzu on the other hand, comes with a 5 year/120 000km warranty & roadside assistance, 5 year/unlimited km anti-corrosion warranty, 5 year/90 000km service plan with services every 15 000km.
Engines
Powering the Isuzu is a powerful 3.0 turbo diesel motor with 130 kW and 380 Nm, while the GWM Steed 5E gets by with 2.0-litre turbo diesel motor with 105 kW and 305 Nm. While there's one litre difference in capacity between the two, both engines feel a little similar although the true test would be evaluating performance with the load bay full of cargo. Isuzu claims 7.9L/100km as a fuel consumption average, while GWM claims a surprising 8.3L/100km figure. Advantage to the Isuzu then.
Cabin and features
The interior of the GWM Steed 5E is vastly improved when compared to its predecessors. The older version was a dreary place to be, with function taking priority over form. Having had a sneak peek into the interior of a Steed 6, I can tell you that’s even better. Leather upholstery is standard, which is a pleasant surprise. The Chinese have kitted out the Steed 5E well and it features nice things like climate control, power steering, steering wheel controls, tyre pressure sensors, Bluetooth connectivity, aux input, USB input, SD card support, electric windows all round, fog lamps both front and back as well as safety features in the form of two airbags and ABS with EBD. The GWM also features an automatic mechanical locking diff which deactivates above 30kph. Its a useful thing to have when you're bundu bashing. The Isuzu KB has to be well equipped to justify its price tag, and it is. Cruise control, multi function steering wheel, trip computer, Bluetooth connectivity, climate control, aux input, USB input, front fog lights and one of the more practical things: rear parking sensors. Leather is an option, and the Isuzu comes standard with cloth upholstery. I also noted that the Isuzu KB has the slightly larger load bay.
Isuzu KB300 vs GWM Steed 5E – Verdict and Summary
While it’s much of a muchness between the two bakkies, the GWM simply blows the Isuzu KB out the water when it comes to price. This particular Isuzu in the photos is the 4×4 version, and that retails for almost R500 000. The GWM Steed 5E 4×2 with automatic rear differential lock sells for R284 900, making it superb value for money for those budget-conscious buyers! So now the question to be asked is, do you go for one of the tried-and-trusted models which are loved, admired and respected in South Africa, or do you go for the relatively unproven newcomer which is substantially cheaper than its competition? After sale service and resale will likely count in favour of the Isuzu, but GWM is arguably the best of the Chinese manufacturers and has a lot going for it. It's a victory for the GWM Steed 5E in my opinion, as the bakkie is on par with its Isuzu rival, but it's an awful lot cheaper. You can check out a detailed comparison between the Isuzu KB 300 and the GWM Steed 5E here.
Isuzu KB 300D-Teq D/C LX
GWM Steed 5E 2.0VGT D/C
Price
R439 100
R284 900
Engine
3.0-Litre turbodiesel
2.0-Litre turbodiesel
Power
130 kW
105 kW
Torque
380 Nm
305 Nm
Diff lock
Yes, Rear (switch on dashboard)
Yes, Rear (automatic)
Fuel tank capacity
80L
70L
Fuel consumption
7.8L/100km
6.5L/100km
Gearbox
Five-speed manual
Six-speed manual
2015 Toyota Auris Facelift Revealed
The upcoming Geneva Motor Show will see the launch of the facelifted 2015 Toyota Auris which will debut alongside the Touring Sports Wagon and new Avensis.
2015 Toyota Auris Facelift coming to SA
The 2015 Toyota Auris is said to benefit from a number of aesthetic modifications which include a revised front end, an upgraded cabin, as well as new comfort and safety features.
Interior enhancements include a new infotainment system, some glossy black accents on the dashboard and an old-school clock thats been moved to the right of the larger touchscreen display.
In addition, Toyota says the 2015 Auris facelift hatchback will be equipped with new and improved petrol and diesel engines, developed with a focus on efficiency and performance.
The hatchback will supposedly make its way to South Africa sometime later this year. More details to follow once it is unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show.
Near Production Mercedes-Benz G 500 4×4² Detailed
Following a preview sometime last week, Mercedes-Benz has released new details about the G 500 4×4² which is set to debut in near production form at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show.
Mercedes-Benz G 500 4×4² concept detailed
The new addition to the G-Class model family highlights the superlative-rich history of the G-Class and blends all the advantages of the model series with an AMG front bumper, carbon fibre flares and integral LED light strips above the windscreen.
As mentioned previously, the car also rides on some massive 22-inch wheels with off-road tyres, and features a side exiting exhaust and stainless steel underbody guards.
Inside, the G 500 4×4² offers a designo Exclusive package featuring seat bolsters and head restraints, dashboard, centre console and armrests all covered in black leather with white contrasting topstitching. The seat surfaces, door panels and headliner will be furnished in DINAMICA microfiber with diamond design quilting.
New engine offers V8 biturbo power
The twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine delivers 310 kW and adopts the all-wheel drive system with portal axles from the 6×6 and uses a seven-speed G-tronic automatic gearbox with a separate transfer case and high/low ratio gearing. We suspect this is the same engine used in the forthcoming Mercedes-Benz C63 sedan and AMG-GT supercar.
Also new are the portal axles and a returned suspension with two spring/damper struts per wheel. According to Mercedes, one spring/damper strut works conventionally with set damper characteristics, while the other has electronically controlled adjustable damping that can be changed from Comfort to Sport in just 15 milliseconds.
Compared to the regular models 210 mm, the ground clearance on the G 500 4×4² has risen to 450 mm, while the driving depth sits at 1000 mm.
Mercedes-Benz says the decision on series production of the G 500 4×4² will be dependent on the reaction which the near-series show car receives.
Mercedes G 500 4×4² concept tackles mountainous terrain
2016 Range Rover Evoque Facelift Headed To Geneva
The covers have been lifted off the 2016 Range Rover Evoque facelift which comes with mechanical upgrades and subtle modifications to styling.
New design features
Changes to the exterior include new grilles and restyled bumper, full LED adaptive headlights a new tailgate spoiler, as well as new alloy wheel designs and unique graphics for the LED taillights.
The interior design has further been enhanced with a new eight-inch touchscreen with swipe function, and new seats and door casings combined with a redesigned instrument binnacle. The company has also added an All-Terrain Progress Control (ATPC) system which helps the Evoque maintain a pre-established speed when tackling rough terrain.
New engine
The facelifted 2016 Range Rover Evoque benefits from a new aluminium Ingenium TD4 turbodiesel engine which is said to be 20-30 kg lighter than its predecessor and will be available in two power outputs: 110 kW and 132 kW.
The 2016 model year Evoque is also offered with Land Rover’s existing advanced Si4 turbocharged petrol engine delivering 177 kW which enables the SUV to reach 100 kph in 7.6 seconds before achieving a top speed of 217 kph.
Advanced technology systems
A range of innovative new features enhance the facelifted model, such as a lane keeping assist system, an autonomous emergency braking system, and an attention assist system.
Theres also a new hands-free tailgate function that is also compatible with a tow bar, which lets you wave your foot under the bumper to open the back, whilst not compromising security.
The 2016 Range Rover Evoque facelift will debut next week at the Geneva Motor Show.
The Nissan NP200 Stealth Launched In SA
Following last years launch of the NP200 Loaded, Nissan is set to position itself as market leader with its new special edition NP200 Stealth which offers unique design and luxury upgrades.
Themed design features
The locally produced NP200 Stealth comes fully equipped with a 1.6-litre petrol engine, dark grey “techno” paint, a darkened sports-bar and a flush-fitting tonneau cover.
The bakkie further boasts a colour-coded grille frame, tinted smash-and-grab protected windows, charcoal black alloy wheels with red accents and daytime running lights to the front air dam, while “Stealth” decals furnish the side and rear.
Inside, Nissan has added an Alpine audio system (with Bluetooth and USB), seats upholstered in special eco-leather with titanium-coloured contrasting stitching and Stealth-embroidered logos. The NP200 Stealth also features remote central locking, air conditioning, ABS and two airbags.
Special Edition celebrates NP200s position as market leader
2014 proved to be a big success for the sub one-tonne bakkie which posted a total of 17 412 sales, reaffirming its position in the market as one of the best-selling bakkies in South Africa.
“Last year’s NP200 Loaded Special Edition was a big success, but for 2015 we challenged our design and engineering team to push the boundaries. The result is the NP200 Stealth, a pickup that we believe will be even more successful, especially because it represents significant value and the quality of factory fitment,” said Konstantin von Vieregge, General Manager for Marketing and Planning at Nissan South Africa.
Nissan NP200 Stealth price in South Africa
Nissan NP200 Stealth R169 000
The price is inclusive of a six-year or 150 000km warranty.
All-New Hyundai ix35 Revealed (Video)
Hyundai has revealed the new ix35 weeks before its debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2015. The ix35 name seems as though it will be replaced by the Tucson nameplate with the new model.
Hyundai ix35/Tucson Details
Design expresses our progressive spirit and passion, and it is transforming our brand. The all-new Tucson has a bold and athletic presence achieved through refined, flowing surfaces, bold proportions, sharp lines and most importantly, our newest generation hexagonal grille our brand signature, said Peter Schreyer, President and Chief Design Officer at Hyundai.
If were honest the front end looks a bit like a Honda CR-V in the grille and the rest of the car looks quite bland. Its not ugly but not the sort of progressive design weve seen in recent years from the Koreans.
Engine lineup
The Tucson will be available with a wide range of engines although South African versions have not been chosen yet. These include two petrol engines: 99 kW (1.6-litre GDI) or 129 kW (1.6-litre T-GDI) plus three diesel options: 85 kW (1.7-litre), 100 kW (2.0-litre standard power) or 135 kW (2.0-litre high power). The new turbocharged 130 kW 1.6-litre T-GDI engine can be paired with either a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission or a six-speed manual.
The interior has inevitably had an upgrade and looks impressively premium. The major upgrade comes in the form of a larger infotainment screen and power tailgate that automatically opens when the key approaches the rear. Strangely the boot size has decreased from a spacious 591-litres down to 513-litres. The navigation system comes with a seven-year subscription to TOMTOM Live services that relays live traffic information.
Improved Safety
Safety aspects have been extensively improved and the Tucson now comes with a Lane Keeping Assist System that proactively corrects the steering to avoid unintended lane departure, and the Rear Traffic Cross Alert system uses radar to scan a 180-degree area behind the vehicle, alerting the driver to any approaching cross-traffic.
In addition, Blind Spot Detection helps monitor traffic around the car, while the Speed Limit Information Function monitors local overhead and roadside speed limit signs and provides reminders. The Active Bonnet System raises the vehicles bonnet to cushion the impact shock in any frontal collision with a pedestrian or cyclist.
The South African launch date is set for the fourth quarter of 2015 and we will hear more about the spec and engines well get in the coming months.
Infiniti QX30 Concept Looks Great, from Behind
Infiniti has revealed a full picture of the rear end of the upcoming QX30 Crossover concept, which will have its world premiere at the 2015 Geneva International Motor Show. The crossover concept hints at a future premium compact vehicle that would rival its stablemate the Nissan Qashqai and probably roll on the same underpinnings.
QX30 Compact and Sporty
Infiniti says the QX30 Concept combines the sleek lines of a coupe with the distinguishing features and higher stance of a crossover. Looking poised for action, yet fluid, it promises to deliver effortless capability with style.
The QX30 Concept has been designed to make occupants feel safe and protected inside, and customers can drive in or out of the city without worrying about nicks to the chromework. said Alfonso Albaisa, Infiniti Executive Design Director
The aerodynamic design plays to the vehicle’s apparent athletic abilities that is enhanced by some special bodywork pieces. They have fitted carbon fibre in the lower cladding and roofbar supports to lighten up the QX30.
There are huge 21-inch wheels together with larger profile tyres that will hopefully improve the ride quality. The spokes are a unique mix of three-dimensional milled aluminium finished in different tones which interlock.
The QX30 Concept design conveys a sophisticatedly gritty sense of strength and durability, but tough doesnt mean rough. Weve retained a sense of artistry throughout, even in the most functional of parts, said Albaisa.
QX30 Concept will be officially unveiled on 3 March 2015 at the Geneva motor show.
Peugeot 208 Facelift Detailed
The Peugeot 208 has a fresh new look, which it will officially show off at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show on March 4.
New styling
The 208 hatchback now benefits from a modified front end with new headlights, with a new radiator grille, a new front bumper and some different fog light surrounds, while at the rear the new taillights feature 3D LED design.
The slightly updated cabin is furnished with new trim for the dashboard, a leather wrapped steering wheel, Bluetooth and USB connectivity for the 7-inch touch screen display, MirrorScreen system, as well as mobile applications via Peugeot Connect Apps.
A GT Line trim level will also be offered with a gloss black grille, chrome window surrounds, 17-inch alloy wheels, front fog lamp finishers, and half leather black-red sport seats and chrome exhaust tailpipe.
The GTi 30th Anniversary model will now be offered as a normal part of the range in the form of the GTi by Peugeot Sport version.
Engines
Engine line-up for the facelifted Peugeot 208 includes a 55 kW, 74 kW or 88 kW 1.6 Blue HDI, while the new 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol unit offers 81 kW. The latter version is mated to a six-speed manual, while the other two units are offered with a five-speed manual transmission.
Following its world debut at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show, the facelifted Peugeot 208 facelift will go on sale from mid-June 2015 with production to take place in Poissy (France) and Trnava (Slovakia).
