MINI Rocketman Production Version Back On The Cards
According to a recent report on Auto Express, MINI is preparing to bring out a production version of the MINI Rocketman concept which showcased at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show.
Entry-level MINI Rocketman coming in 2016
The Rocketman production version is expected to arrive no later than 2016 and is set to rival the likes of the Smart ForTwo and Toyota IQ. This announcement was made by MINIs head of design Anders Warming, who confirmed that the brand was still keen on developing a small city car, but wont reveal anything more [to the world] until [a viable design] is ready.
For sure, a MINI should always be a small car, so [a new city car] would be appropriate for the brand, he said. At the moment, we dont have the right tech solutions, but we are working on it. We dont yet have a final solution, you could say.
The Rocketman concept shown two years ago received positive feedback, which is why a production Rocketman is still being considered and work is being made for an entry-level model.
The concept further inspired the looks of the current five-door MINI and was based on a lightweight carbon fibre construction, which according Warming wont be viable for future MINIs. I dont believe carbon fibre is the route to a superlight MINI, he said. Our concepts have had carbon parts, but aluminium is more likely. We want to reduce parts, to do more with less.
In addition, the report mentions that developing a new city car platform is costly, so MINI will be looking for a technical partner likely to be Toyota since both companies are working together on a sports car.
Six New Cars in South Africa under R100k
The thought of owning a new car is an attractive one, but take the time to research prices for new cars and your car dreams can quickly shatter when you start crunching the numbers.
However, you don’t have to spend a fortune on a car and you always have options. We’ve compiled a list of six new cars available in South Africa for under R100k, which will keep your wallet smiling and do what cars are ultimately here to do, getting you from A to B, and back again. Or, you can always hit up the used car market which is showing no sign of slowing down. Check our used car section here.
The recently launched Datsun GO is powered by a 1.2-litre 3-cylinder engine that offers 50 kW of power and 104 Nm of torque. Fuel consumption is claimed to be 5.2 – litres / 100km. The GO is available with a number of aftermarket styling appointments to spruce up the look. Two GO models are available including the GO Mid which is priced at R89 500 and the GO Lux priced from R99 500. Read our review of the Datsun GO.
The Chery QQ3 is a small little city mover powered by a three-cylinder 0.8-litre engine that offers 38 kW of power and 70 Nm of torque. Apart from the tyres and steering wheel, equipment on the Chery QQ3 is sparse, so don’t expect too much but you will be happy to know that it’s a light drinker with a fuel consumption figure of 6.8l/100km. The Chery QQ3 is offered in the basic TE trim from R88 900. Add air-conditioning to the mix and the price jumps to R94 900. The Chery QQ3 in TX trim adds a few more features and is priced at R99 900.
The Geely GC2 hatchback comes fitted with a 1-litre, four-cylinder 16-valve engine that generates a 50 kW of power whilst putting 88 Nm of torque to the tar. The GC2 consumes only 6.2l/100km and comes fitted with a radio, air-conditioning and central locking. Pricing for the Geely GC2 starts from R92 990.
For less than R100k, you’ll be happy to know that the base MK Hatch is reasonably equipped. Two MK Hatch variants are available in either GL or GT trim fitted with a 1.5-litre petrol engine offering 69 kW of power and 128 Nm of torque. Standard features on the base GL model include electric windows, remote central locking, CD/MP3 player, air-conditioning, driver and passenger airbags and ABS and EBD. Fuel Efficiency isn’t great but manageable at 7.7l/100km. Pricing for the Geely MK Hatch starts at R99 990 for GL version.
The FAW V2 goes head-to-head with the Geely MK Hatch in terms of standard equipment. The FAW V2 is fitted with a 1.3-litre petrol engine that offers 67 kW and 120 Nm of torque while consuming 6.5l/100km. Standard features include ABS and EBD, dual airbags, electric windows, electric mirrors, remote central locking, CD/MP3 player with USB connectivity and air-conditioning. For an extra five bucks compared to the Geely MK hatch, the FAW V2 is yours for R99 995.
With its 1.4-litre, four-cylinder petrol unit, the Tata Indica has 55 kW and 110 Nm of torque for you to play with whilst returning a fuel consumption figure of 7.4l/100km, but that’s about it. For the price, the Tata Indica in base LE trim is poorly specced when compared to its competitors with few features even worth mentioning. If you so wish, the Tata Indica can be yours for R99 995.
Mercedes-Benz G-Class 35 Edition
Mercedes-Benz has revealed a special edition G-Class for the models 35th anniversary. The G-Wagen as it is affectionately know was first used in 1979 when its primary use was as a military vehicle. Now 35 years on, the G-Wagen commands a hefty price tag and some serious street cred.
Merc G-Class 35 Edition Details
The G-Class 35 Edition adds a few interior touches to increase its level of gangster. Theres an AMG Performance steering wheel and loads of black leather, the interior is finished off with Nappa leather seats. The exterior sees the G-Class combine both Sports and Chrome packages with all-new dark black 18-inch wheels. The 35 Edition will only be available in G350 and G500 variants and offered in black, white or grey metallic colours.
It has been reported that the much loved G-Wagen will continue to be part of the Mercedes-Benz lineup until 2027. A facelifted version is also in the pipeline that will be shown in 2016.
Toyota C-HR Concept Teased For Paris Motor Show
Toyota has issued has released a teaser photo of its new C-HR scheduled for a debut at the 2014 Paris motor show next month.
Toyota to unveil new hybrid-powered compact crossover
According to Toyota, the compact crossover concept combines a bold new design language with an agile, engaging driving experience and a hybrid powertrain. The concept is said to slot below the current RAV4 and will take on the C-crossover segment.
From the image, it looks as though the concept will feature a sporty silhouette with a swept-back A-pillar and a stylish C-pillar. There also looks to be a chunky rear bumper with oversized lights on both ends.
Further details about the Toyota C-HR are yet to be released, but its rumoured the concept car has some relation to the upcoming Auris Cross test prototype, which is expected to be fully developed by 2017. Its been previously mentioned that the Cross will make use of a 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine producing 97 kW and 160 Nm of torque. The car could also be offered in both two- and four-wheel-drive versions.
The Paris Motor Show is set to take place from October 2-19, more details about the Toyota C-HR concept will be made available then.
Subaru WRX (2014) Review
There was a time not too long ago that Subaru competed in the World Rally Championship and its road cars resembled the hardcore nature of its competition cars. They were rally bred, infused with ruggedness and devoid of creature comforts.
Now though, rallying is a thing of the past to the brand and they merely make rather fast road cars for the enthusiast. This then is the new WRX, the companys entry level hardcore sedan. We drove the old WRX a while back and loved its rawness.
Boxer Beneath
Subaru and Porsche are the only two manufacturers left that still produce flat-four, Boxer engines. All the other manufacturers work with in-line cylinders or lay them out in a V formation. The Boxer engine does give off its own distinct thrum, a low down gargle that has made Subaru so unique over the years, especially in WRX STi derivative.
Here in the WRX the gargle is mostly evident at idle and in our manual six-speed with an added exhaust upgrade it entices you to get in and give it a full hammering. As you wind up through the revs though, the sound seems to disappear and its relatively quiet in the cabin, the whine of the turbocharger is the most distinguishable sound from the drivers seat.
The 2-litre turbo churns out decent power, though gone are the days when Subaru would trump all in power and torque stats within its price and competition range. You get 197 kW and 350 Nm of torque and thatll get you from 0-100kph in six-seconds flat in the manual version and 6.3 seconds in the CVT Lineartronic. The engine feels most happy in the mid-range, north of 5 000 rpm it dies off a bit and struggles to reach its redline at 6 700 rpm (manual version). Keep in the mid-range though and it will keep delivering sharp, hard punches of acceleration.
Inside the Beast
As I mentioned earlier, creature comforts have never been high on the priority list for Subaru engineers, or its owners to be honest but the WRX has evolved. Interior features have been added to make you feel like youre in a modern day piece of kit rather than Colin McRaes old rally car.
Theres leather upholstery all round, a touch screen radio with Bluetooth and USB capability. Theres a second display screen that has multiple scrollable screens that displays everything trip related as well as doubling as a reverse camera. Having the camera up so high does mean that sunlight reflects onto the screen making it difficult to see what the reverse cameras are displaying. Its all rather civilised now as Subaru moves away from the rally purist feel to something more in line with the very fast modern hot hatchbacks.
Handling Prowess
The major improvement for this generation WRX has been on the handling front and its a much improved performance car. The entire chassis feels more taut and rigid; the typical WRX forwards and backwards body lean under braking and acceleration has been minimised. The WRX now rides much flatter and because of the all-round increase in chassis stiffness its a more agile car. It dives for apexes more accurately and the change of direction doesnt send it into tyre-screeching understeer so easily.
It feels like theres even more grip now and trying to get the tyres to give up traction requires excessive steering angle or a go-kart circuit with tight hairpins. The all-wheel drive setup provides confidence and even though the steering is now electric it feels natural.
Everyday Living
The Subaru WRX is not an easy car to get used to in manual form, the clutch is a little heavy and has a snappy bite point making it bouncy in traffic. If youre not absolutely on the limit it can be a jerky car to drive and with the firmness of the suspension its a bumpy ride on everything but the smoothest freeway. That is exactly how we like it, hard to the bone. Performance and track-like handling is bound to have some sort of drawback and without the trick adaptable suspension the Germans use in the BMWs and the likes it will be a harsh ride. It feels similar to the Renault Megane RS Trophy as far as ride stiffness goes.
Verdict
The Subaru WRX may not rule the roost anymore as far as power and torque figures go the hot hatches can offer similar stats. It does have a much improved chassis though and that makes it more fun to hustle around than before. Creature comforts have made it more modern but still remain an afterthought as sporty performance remains the main target.
Price is a sticky situation though as its right at the top end of the hot hatch spectrum and Im certain prospective buyers wont see it as the ultimate performance bargain it once was. It is an improvement for the brand though and the WRX faithful will be flocking to the new model from the previous one. The CVT Lineartronic is good, but you lose some of that fun feeling. Still, it’s an impressive machine even without a manual gearbox.
Second Opinion
The Subaru WRX has matured, which is both a good and a bad thing. It’s still a decent performer with some impressive cornering skills. There’s a nice sound out the back due to the optional sports exhaust, which is a must-have option. It may have lost a bit of its racer appeal whilst growing up and becoming more practical, but the end product is still a fiery all-wheel drive tarmac monster that isn’t too badly priced for what you get. –David Taylor
Subaru WRX Premium Manual quick specs
Price
R449 000
Engine
2-litre 4-cylinder turbo petrol
Power
197 kW
Torque
350 Nm
Transmission
Six-speed Manual
Wheels
17-inch alloys
0-100km/h
6.0 seconds (claimed)
Fuel economy
9.2 l/100 km (claimed)
We like:
. Hard-edge looks
. Handling improvements
. Turbo whine as you climb the revs
We dislike:
. Hard to live with everyday
. Competitors offer more value
Ford has officially unveiled the 2015 Ford S-MAX ahead of its scheduled Paris Motor Show public debut.
2015 Ford S-MAX detailed
Previewed by the S-MAX Concept from the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, the second-generation seven-seat S-MAX features many of the styling cues seen on the facelifted Focus and Fiesta such as the sculpted headlights and chrome trapezoidal grille.
Notably so, the MPV features a number of changes to its predecessor including some new practical features like the segments first power-folding seats on the second and third rows, new side airbags, the hands-free boot lid, as well as an electronically adjusted steering column and optional heated and cooled multi-contour massage seats.
Ford is yet to confirm details about the engine range, but its expected the new S-MAX will be equipped with a 2.0-litre TDCI diesel engine delivering 80 kW and will be mated to a six-speed manual transmission.
The range topping version is said to deliver between 110 kW and 132 kW with either a six-speed manual or a dual-clutch automatic transmission, as well as a four-wheel drive for the first time. Petrol versions are said to consist of a 1.5-litre EcoBoost with 118 kW and a 177 kW 2.0-liter EcoBoost.
Additional details about the 2015 Ford S-MAX will be released during the Paris Motor Show which is taking place next month.
Special Edition Ferrari Set for US Debut
Ferrari is set to debut a special edition model exclusively in the United States to celebrate 60 years of Ferrari operations in the U.S.
Exclusive US special edition Ferrari
The car is scheduled to be unveiled in October at Race Through The Decades 1954-2014 event which is said to feature 60 historic Ferrari’s and will run throughout the day on Beverly Hills Rodeo Drive.
Details are limited at the moment, but outgoing Chairman Luca di Montezemolo confirmed that they have developed a special car of which just 10 examples will be built, in addition to planning a major event in Los Angeles to bring together all our American clients and collectors, and a charity initiative.
Minor details that have come to light are that the car will be painted in blue with white stripes, the same colours used by the Ferrari North American Racing Team from the 1960s to the 1980s.
Its suspected that the special edition Ferrari will be based on the 552 kW V-12 F12 Berlinetta two-seat coupe but will instead feature a specific body and interior.
Apart from the announcement about the special edition model, the Italian sports car marque reported record revenues for the first half of 2014. Ferrari said it sold 3631 cars in the first half of 2014, down 3.6 percent from a year earlier, however, the company posted recorded revenues of $1.6 billion (about R17.6 billion) and a net profit of $165 million (which is about R1.8 billion).
*Pictured is the 2013 Ferrari F12berlinetta.
2016 Mazda MX-5 Details Revealed
The 2016 Mazda MX-5 was revealed recently, but very little was mentioned regarding the car’s specifications. A new report by Motoring has provided further details on the latest 2016 Mazda MX-5, which is said to weigh just over a ton at 1 020 kg, making the car about 100 kg lighter than the previous MX-5.
2016 Mazda MX-5 Engine
According to the report, the entry-level MX-5 will be powered by a 1.5-litre SKYACTIV-G four-cylinder petrol engine that’s capable of 96 kW. The torque figure is expected to exceed 144 Nm, but that hasn’t been confirmed yet. The engine has been mounted slightly further behind the front axle in order to achieve perfect 50:50 weight distribution.
The suspension on the 2016 Mazda MX-5 has a simple setup with double wishbones at the front and a multi-link rear suspension.
The new 2016 Mazda MX-5 is 105 mm shorter in length, 20 mm lower and 10 mm wider than before. The world’s best selling two-seater sports car still retains its soft-top roof and features Mazda’s KODO design philosophy.
More information regarding the 2016 Mazda MX-5 will be revealed at the 2014 Paris Motor Show in October.
Reports are that the new model will be the Alfa Romeo Giulia which is said to be the first model to be based on the brands new architecture and will be powered by a range of four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines. This new architecture is said to be the Giorgio platform, which is being developed by Maserati and will be used also on future Chrysler and Dodge products.
The new Alfa Romeo model is further rumoured to add a range-topping GTA version which will apparently be equipped with a 3.0-litre twin-turbo engine from Maserati, and will deliver approximately 358 to 387 kW of power. The car is in addition expected to be a rear-wheel drive with a dual-clutch gearbox and a limited slip differential. This setup will supposedly allow the car to do the 100 km/h run in less than four seconds.
Look out for more details on this story in the coming weeks.
Land Rover Discovery HSE Review
What if you could combine excellent off-road dynamics with proper work-horse ability, while still being a modern, fashionable family-orientated SUV? The Land Rover Discovery is the answer to that conundrum and during its week at Cars.co.za, there was a constant battle for the key fob.
Strong diesel engine
The Land Rover Discovery is no lightweight and tips the scales at 2.5 tons! With that much weight, there needs to be a powerful engine which can offer great performance both on and off road. The 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 blends economy with monster torque. How does 183 kW and 600 Nm grab you? There’s a modern 8-speed gearbox from ZF putting that power to all four wheels too. The clever differential splits the power according to which wheel needs the most ensuring there’s no loss of traction. Land Rover claims it’ll consume almost 9l/100km, but let’s be honest the Discovery is a big heavy vehicle and we were happy with 11l/100km on the trip computer.
Incredible 4×4 prowess
If you’re after a serious 4×4 machine then look no further. Thanks to its clever electronics called Terrain Response, you simply tell the car what terrain you’re on and it’ll do the rest. When things get serious, there’s low-range and you can raise the air suspension at the touch of a button. The Land Rover Discovery also features Wade Sensing, which assists with sonar as you drive through water. You can drive in water and streams of up to 70 cm in depth – truly incredible and not something I felt brave enough to try.
When the aforementioned air suspension is used, you’re looking at 240 mm of ground clearance which is plenty when you want to conquer the wild. For those who find these numbers interesting, the Land Rover Discovery has an approach angle of 36.2° and a departure angle of 29.6°.
Interior and features
So we have an excessively powerful and rugged monster off-road vehicle here, what’s the interior like? Despite its hardcore beast exterior, the Land Rover Discovery HSE boasts a luxury and refined interior that is quite similar to its Range Rover siblings. The vehicle can seat seven, or five with a generous boot. There are leather electronically adjustable seats all around and there are even arm rests for the driver and passenger.
If you can name it, the Land Rover Discovery HSE has it. Front and rear parking sensors, daytime running lights, cruise control, climate control for both the front and rear, keyless entry as well as multiple cameras. There’s also wade sensing, blind spot monitoring, closing vehicle sensing, reverse traffic detection, satellite navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, Meridian premium audio and the list goes on. There’s even a fridge built into the storage area located between the driver and passenger seats.
Ride quality
In the week that I had the Land Rover Discovery, I drove it mostly on tarmac and the ride quality is exceptional. The Discovery is smooth and showed refinement that many luxury premium cars could only dream of. If open-road comfort is what you desire in an SUV, then look no further. Just be careful when driving enthusiastically mind you, as the weight and size of the vehicle makes it quite top heavy. Sharp corners are best taken at slow speeds to avoid excessive body roll and lean.
Summary
The Land Rover Discovery is one of those cars that I find myself lusting after for many reasons. Not only is it a truly phenomenal offroader that flatters the average drive, it offers luxurious comfort and state-of-the-art features. The engine is exceptionally strong and it’s not super thirsty as expected of a big SUV. You could have the HSE version at R952 800, but if you’re cash strapped then the range starts around the R670 000 mark.
Second opinion
Land Rover’s Discovery is the ultimate king of the road vehicle, its tremendous size and presence commands respect. The driver is cocooned away in luxury and an interior so large its boundaries require border posts. It’s great off roader that tackles everything in front of it with ease. If you were to pick only one car to do everything for the rest of your life, it would probably be this. Or a Range Rover. -Ashley Oldfield
Land Rover Discovery HSE SDV6 quick specs
Price
R952 800
Engine
3-litre V6 turbodiesel
Power
183 kW
Torque
600 Nm
Transmission
Eight-speed automatic
Wheels
19-inch alloys
0-100km/h
9.3 seconds (claimed)
Fuel economy
8.8 l/100 km (claimed)
We like:
. Outstanding off-road ability
. Comprehensive specification
. Excellent torque for towing / overtaking
