The new 2016 Opel Corsa OPC was revealed online this week, and is set to make its world debut at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show.
Powerful sporty appearance
Visually, the 2016 Opel Corsa OPC sticks to the OPC tradition, with a new OPC exclusive paint in Arden Blue, new front-end design with new large air intakes with aluminium framing and a front hood with a subtle scoop providing the car with an additional dash of athleticism.
The rear end features a subtle spoiler attached to the trunk lid which is available in two varieties including a larger spoiler that is said to increase downforce at the rear axle. The wheels measure 17 inches in diameter and come wrapped in 215/45-size Michelins. Theres also an OPC-optimised braking system with 308 mm front discs, along with a dual exhaust system from Remus with a diffuser.
Optionally you can customise your 2016 Opel Corsa OPC with a Performance Package comprising of a Drexel mechanical multi-disc differential lock, 18-inch rims wrapped around in Michelin tires along with a stiffer chassis setup and a Brembo braking system with 330mm front discs. This will make the performance fans happy, as the Corsa OPC will become a serious contender in terms of outright track prowess.
Inside youll find a leather flat-bottomed steering wheel, Recaro performance seats, an OPC gear knob, sport pedals and the rather good IntelliLink infotainment system which we’ve experienced in the Corsa’s smaller brother, the Opel Adam 1.0T.
2016 Opel Corsa OPC Engine
Under the hood, the 2016 Opel Corsa OPC packs a four-cylinder, 1.6-litre Turbo ECOTEC engine delivering 152 kW and 280 Nm of torque sent to the front axle through a six-speed manual gearbox with short ratios.
This setup allows the car to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 6.8 seconds before reaching a top speed of 230 kph. Fuel consumption is rated at 7.5-litres/100 km with CO2 emissions of 174 g/km, but we don’t quite think you’ll get that if the potential performance and fun factor of the Opel Corsa is anything to go by.
The 2016 Opel Corsa OPC is planned for launch in South Africa in the third quarter of 2015.
Audi S1 (2015) Review
The flagship of the Audi A1 range spent a week with Cars.co.za. How did the fiery Audi S1 fare?
Personally I love the idea of shoving a big engine into a little car and usually the results are most amusing. This is particularly true in the Audi S1.
Engine, Performance & Handling
Powering this little pint-sized road warrior is the same engine found in the Volkswagen Golf R and Audi S3. It’s slightly detuned to ensure that S3 owners don’t feel inadequate, but still, outputs are commendable. How does 170 kW and 370 Nm grab you? In something as compact as an Audi A1 and coupled with quattro all-wheel drive, performance is dramatic, visceral and exciting.
I say compact due to the vehicle’s size, but in reality a big 2.0-litre engine and quattro all-wheel drive system contribute to the car’s overall mass. Despite looking like a small car, the S1 tips the scales at 1400kg – that’s considerable and as sportscar specialists Lotus will tell you, weight is the devil.
All jokes about the Audi S1 being a fat slob are rendered null and void the moment you open the taps. With the 2.0-litre engine in Dynamic mode and some tactful use of the lovely six-speed manual gearbox, you can expect 100kph to come up in about six seconds. It’s the in-gear acceleration which really underlines the performance of the S1. You can put your foot flat at 70kph in 6th gear and the car is instantly responsive. I suspect gear ratios are nice and short too, making it an involving drive as you’ll enjoy working that transmission. Keep your foot planted and you’ll be approaching speeds which earn you time in front of a judge.
Handling is what I’ve come to expect from quattro products. Words like firm, precise and entertaining can be used to describe the Audi S1. On my favourite stretch of driving road, I got a feeling that the Audi S1 was a perfect fit. I’ve had some tremendous fun in some front-wheel drive hot hatches, but at the expense of some squealing tyres.
The S1 on the other hand was able to attack some 2nd/3rd gear corners with gusto, with the quattro system meaning you can start accelerating earlier out the turn. This sporty suspension comes at a price – you’re going to feel each and every bump and rut on uneven roads.
Interior and Practicality
I suppose I’d better talk about the sensible things like the interior and practicality. Being an Audi, the interior is a pleasant place to be and the build quality is impressive. Things like the ventilation dials have a quality feel, and there’s a cute infotainment screen at the top of the dashboard.
Here’s where it gets interesting. Due to the dimensions of the 2.0-litre engine in the smallish A1’s engine bay, the battery has had to move into the boot. The lack of engine bay space means there’s no chance of the outstanding Audi S-tronic twin clutch gearbox as an option. The knock-on effect is unfortunate. There’s no spare tyre and boot space is a little smaller than the standard A1 1.2 Sportback. Still, it’s not the most cramped of interiors and an average-sized adult can fit into the rear seats.
There are two cupholders located just in front of the gearbox, with a further storage area located between the driver and passenger seats. There’s ample space in the doors for things like keys and smartphones.
Audi S1 – Verdict
As far as range toppers and flagship models go, the Audi S1 is an enthusiast’s choice. A reduced boot size, lack of spare tyre and a questionably high price tag count against an entertaining product. Also, if you’re wanting nice things like the outstanding yellow paint which is more appropriate for this wildchild, race seats and satellite navigation, you’re looking at R500 000.
Logic and common sense would suggest buying a second-hand Audi S3 with the brilliant S-tronic box and added interior space, but if you’re after something extraordinarily unique and a bit of a collector’s item, then check out the Audi S1.
Second Opinion
The Audi S1 was an absolute riot to drive. The S1 handled like a dream thanks to the quattro all-wheel drive and in-gear acceleration was impressive, particularly when overtaking on the highway. The interior is attractive and the seat bolstering and flat-bottomed steering wheel give the S1 a sporty feel to match the engine under the hood. My only gripe is the price and the exorbitant costs on the options list. Look past the money, and you have a fun and engaging car to throw around your neighbourhood. – Gero Lilleike
Pricing
The Audi S1 two-door retails for R442 000, while its Sportback five-door brother goes for R449 500. Options like navigation system, Nappa leather sports seats, and Vegas yellow paint retail for R24 700, R24 990 and R18 500 respectively. Pick wisely when it comes to ticking those option boxes.
We Like: Six-speed gearbox is a joy, all-wheel drive handling is confidence boosting, monster engine, build quality
We Don’t Like: Sparse interior specification, lack of an S-tronic option, lack of spare wheel, price.
Choosing between petrol and diesel is becoming more and more difficult these days. Diesel engine cars are no longer noisy or billow out plumes of smoke every time they pull off from a set of lights. They aren't even down on power compared to their petrol counterparts any more.
Petrol vs Diesel Pros and Cons
Diesels also tend to be more fuel efficient, both in city driving situations as well as in long distance mile-munching mode. The final positive for diesel right now is that as of 4 February 2015, diesel should be cheaper in most places than petrol per litre (prices vary depending on the fuel station). Current prices are R9.90 for unleaded 95 at the coast and 10.09 for inland regions. It’s not all positive for diesel cars however as the technology costs more and that makes the cars more expensive to buy. The debate goes on as diesel cars will incur less CO2 tax and are now able to run similar distances between services to petrol cars. So which should you buy? We’ve compiled a few head-to-heads of popular cars bought in SA over the life of the service plan. This should be able to give us some idea of which is the better form of propulsion. The general consensus seems to be that if you want to buy a regular sedan or hatchback then you're best off going the petrol route, even after 100 000 km it still makes monetary sense to own a petrol car. If you want a SUV however, the base prices are much closer between petrol and diesel. That means it's better to own a diesel SUV. Take a look at this Petrol vs Diesel infographic to make an informed buying decision.
Petrol vs Diesel – What should you buy?
Porsche Cayman GT4 Officially Revealed
After months of rumours and numerous spy shots, Porsche has officially unveiled the Cayman GT4 which will be shown to the public at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show next month.
New member of the Porsche GT family the Cayman GT4
According to Porsche, this is the first time it introduces a GT sports car based on the Cayman which has components from the 911 GT3. The car is further dubbed as a clear statement that Porsche will continue to promote radical two-door sports cars in the future.
The GT4 is differentiated from lesser Cayman models by an aerodynamic package which is designed for downforce and comprises of three distinctive inlet openings at the front and a large fixed rear wing, a redesigned hood with an air inlet, new front bumper with bigger cooling vents and a lip spoiler, plus a rear diffuser with two central exhaust pipes.
Options include the PCCB ceramic brake system and full shell seats made of carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP). Theres also a custom Sport Chrono Package with the unique Track Precision app and a Club Sport Package. The cabin is equipped with leather and Alcantara sport seats as well as a new sport steering wheel.
Technical aspects
Power comes from a 3.8-litre flat-six engine producing 283 kW, which is derived from the 911 Carrera S engine. It is connected to a six-speed manual transmission that enables the car to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 4.4 seconds before hitting a top speed of 183 km/h. In addition Porsche claims that the Cayman GT4 lapped the Nurburgring track in seven minutes and 40 seconds, which places it just behind the 911 Carrera S sitting at seven minutes and 37 seconds.
Ferrari 488 GTB Debuts Early
Ferrari has fully unwrapped its 488 GTB supercar ahead of its scheduled debut that was set for tomorrow.
The Ferrari 488 GTB opens a new chapter in the 8-cylinder history
The reveal comes after a selection of teaser images and a video dropped on the web, showing the car will have a number of styling changes. These modifications include a large signature air intake scallop which, has been divided by a splitter into two separate sections, wide front spoiler with a double profile, as well as an innovative blown spoiler which generates downforce without increasing drag.
The new Ferrari 488 GTB facelift also sports redesigned circular LED taillights, an aerodynamic underbody which incorporates vortex generators and base bleed side intakes
The interior carries through the exterior sporty theme with plenty of classic Ferrari styling elements, new satellite control clusters, angled air vents and semi-refined instrument panel. Theres also a multifunctional steering wheel, new wraparound seats, and redesigned interface and graphics for the infotainment system.
As suspected, the supercar is fitted with a 3.9-litre twin-turbo V8 engine delivering 493 kW at 8000 rpm and 760 Nm at 3000 rpm, which is enough power to allow the seven-speed dual-clutch driven car to complete the 0-100 kph run in about 3 seconds and 0-200kph in 8.3 seconds, reaching a top speed of 330kph.
Gear ratios are claimed to have been programmed to “deliver incredibly progressive acceleration when the driver floors the throttle, while engineers have perfected the Ferrari 488 GTBs sound, creating a new soundtrack that is full, clear and totally distinctive despite being hampered by a turbo.
The Ferrari 488 GTB will make its world debut at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show in March.
Ferrari 458 M Teased (Video)
It appears Ferrari has released a teaser video of its 458 M supercar ahead of its scheduled debut set for tomorrow.
Ferrari 458 M teaser for debut
The video comes after a selection of teaser images dropped on the web, showing the car will have a number of styling changes including a new front bumper and restyled headlights. The new Ferrari 458 M facelift will also sport a new rear bumper, an aggressive diffuser and a dual exhaust system.
The prancing horse company is yet to reveal more specific details about the car. However rumours suggest that it will be equipped with a turbocharged 3.8-litre V8 engine delivering 497 kW and 745 Nm, supposedly replacing the 4.5-litre V8 unit.
The supercar will reportedly be connected to an improved dual-clutch clutch transmission that will allow the car to complete the 0-100 km/h run in less than 3.4 seconds and hit a top speed of 325 km/h.
Renault Kadjar Expands the Brand’s Crossover Range
The Renault Kadjar came into the spotlight last week in the form of a teaser image and was rumoured to be a crossover heavily based on the Nissan Qashqai.
Renault Kadjar a new style for the crossover market
Now fully revealed, the company has confirmed that the Kadjar will sit above the Captur compact SUV and is based on the same underpinnings as the Nissan Qashqai, but is larger in size, measuring 4.45 metres long, 1.84 metres wide and 1.6 metres tall.
Marketed as the ‘brands first ever C-segment crossover’, the Flame Red model boasts athletic exterior styling with a chrome strip around the headlights, muscular wings, sculpted sides, lower door protective mouldings, anodised aluminium roof bars and chrome windows. It also sports 19-inch wheels with black wheel arch extensions, daytime running lights and optional LED headlights.
The sporty and refined interior features a fixed glass sun roof, an instrument panel directly visible to the driver, and a dashboard with foam-backed materials. The front passenger seat can be dropped to create a small table or to load longer items, while the boot can maximise space to 472 litres with a 60/40 spilt rear bench fitted as standard.
The car further features advanced connectivity with R-Link 2 multimedia system, which will be able to offer voice control, navigation, Bluetooth and radio.
Engine details will be revealed during the Geneva Motor Show, but we do know that the Kadjar will be available with either a four- or two-wheel-drive transmission, and will be offered with a range of efficient units.
The global premiere of the Renault Kadjar will take place at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show in March. The crossover is set to go on sale in Europe and in many African and Mediterranean Basin countries from the summer.
New Vehicle Sales in South Africa for January 2015
The National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (NAAMSA) reported a relatively slow start to the year in terms of new vehicle sales. Short to medium term prospects however, look positive on the whole.
Passenger car sales got off to an average start in January 2015 with a marginal decline of 1.2% compared to the same period in 2014. Export sales remain strong with healthy increases of 20.7% reported. The rental industry made a solid contribution towards new vehicles sales, accounting for 15.3% of new vehicles sold. Here is a new vehicle sales summary for the month of January 2015.
New Vehicle Sales Summary January 2015
52 306 aggregate new vehicle sales down by 1.2% (642 units) compared to January 2014.
16 708 export sales up by 20.7% (2 863 units) compared to January 2014.
36 982 passenger car sales down by 3.6% (1 392 units) compared to January 2014.
13 460 light commercial vehicle sales up by 6.0% (756 units) compared to January 2014.
Top Selling Car Brands in South Africa January 2015
NAAMSA predicts a positive outlook in coming months with recent developments playing a key role. These include an increase in the SA Reserve Bank leading indicator, a rise in the purchasing managers index and an increase in consumer spending as a result of decreasing fuel prices over the last six months. Interest rates are expected to remain stable in 2015 as inflationary pressure subsides. Instability in electricity supply could however have a negative impact on the overall outlook for 2015.
Volkswagen up! Finally Arrives In SA Specs and Prices
Volkswagen promises its new compact city car is set to deliver as much roominess as possible measuring 3.54 meters long, 1.64 m wide and 1.48 m tall with a wheelbase of 2.42 m. Boot space is 251 litres while total cargo space (with the rear seats down) is a decent 951 litres.
Base on a new platform, the up! will be available locally in two three-door versions the Take up! And Move up! Both derivatives are powered by a one-litre, three-cylinder petrol engine that delivers 55kW and 95 Nm of torque, and which drives the front wheels through a five-speed manual gearbox. Fuel consumption is claimed to sit at 4.7-litres/100km.
Volkswagen Take up!
Key features of the Take up! include ABS anti-lock brakes with Hydraulic Brake Assist, driver and front passenger airbags (plus front side head/thorax airbags), two rear three-point seatbelts and height-adjustable head restraints, warning buzzer for front and rear seats if belt unfastened.
The model also comes with ISOFIX fixtures and top-tether fittings for mounting suitable child seats in the rear, height adjustable steering wheel, manually adjustable door mirrors, manual air conditioner, daytime running lights, rear windscreen wiper, two rear seats with one-piece folding backrest, and 14-inch steel wheels with 165/70 R14 tyres.
Volkswagen Move up!
In addition to the features found in the Take up! , the Move up! is highlighted by front electric windows, remote central locking, a two-speaker CD/MP3 audio system, electrically-adjustable and heated mirrors as well as height-adjustable front seats that also slide to offer easy access to the rear compartment. The car is additionally fitted with body-coloured mirrors and door handles and both models (while fitted with 14-inch steel wheels) can be optionally fitted with 15-inch alloys.
Volkswagen up! price in South Africa
Volkswagen 1.0 MPI Take up! (55kW) R133 500
Volkswagen 1.0 MPI Move up! (55kW) R140 500
Volkswagen up! comes standard with a 3 year/ 120 000 km manufacturer warranty, a 12 year anti-corrosion warranty and 15 000 km service intervals.
We’ll be at the South African launch of the Volkswagen up! later this week. Look out for the first drive story of Volkswagen’s cheapest car in SA.
Ford Transit and Tourneo Range Expanded with New Derivatives
The three new models make up the seven models in the Transit Custom range and five in Tourneo Custom.
The new high-specification Tourneo Custom Limited SWB now features a more powerful engine delivering 114 kW and 385 Nm of torque. It also comes with full colour coding for the front and rear bumpers, door handles, mirrors and body side cladding.
This model further benefits from power folding exterior mirrors, automatic headlamps with auto-dim front beams, as well as rain-sensing windscreen wipers. Theres also an electrochromatic rear view mirror with integrated camera display that is linked to the front and rear parking sensors, as well as Trailer Hitch Assist functionality.
Ford Transit Custom Kombi Van
Headlining the expanded Transit Custom line-up is the new Kombi Van Trend SWB which offers further functionality with the inclusion of dual side loading doors and running boards for easier access to the 3.47 cm load space. It is also fitted with a Sync-enabled audio system with voice control and two additional speakers, heated windshield, power and heated mirrors, an integrated trip computer and cruise control.
The Kombi Van Ambiente LWB on the other hand is equipped with the 92kW and 350Nm version of the 2.2-litre Duratorq TDCi engine, along with a six-speed manual transmission. It features the same specification as that of the existing Ambiente Panel Van, and comes standard with a driver airbag, along with ABS, EBD, EBA and Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) the latter incorporating Hill Launch Assist, Load Adaptive Control and Roll-Over Mitigation.
Ford Transit and Tourneo price in South Africa
Ford Tourneo Custom 2.2 TDCi Ambiente SWB
R429 900
Ford Tourneo Custom 2.2 TDCi Trend SWB
R449 900
Ford Tourneo Custom 2.2 TDCi Ambiente LWB
R434 900
Ford Tourneo Custom 2.2 TDCi Trend LWB
R454 900
Ford Transit Custom 2.2 TDCi (74kW) Ambiente SWB
R338 700
Ford Transit Custom 2.2 TDCi (92kW) Ambiente SWB
R342 900
Ford Transit Custom 2.2 TDCi (74kW) Ambiente LWB
R347 900
Ford Transit Custom 2.2 TDCi (92kW) Ambiente LWB
R352 900
Ford Transit Custom 2.2 TDCi Kombi Van Ambiente LWB 92kW
R383 900
Ford Transit Custom 2.2 TDCi Kombi Van Trend SWB 92kW
R395 900
Options for the Tourneo include metallic paint, a rear air con & parking sensor pack as well as a Ford audio system + cruise control pack. Options for the Transit include metallic paint, an audio system & cruise control pack, front passenger airbag as well as parking aid sensors. The Ford Transit Custom comes standard with Fords four-year/120 000km comprehensive warranty, five-year/unlimited corrosion warranty and three-year/unlimited roadside assistance. A service plan is available for purchase as a dealer option.
The new Tourneo Custom Limited is offered with the comprehensive Ford Protect customer care programme which is incorporated in the purchase price. This extends to a five-year/90 000km service plan, four-year/120 000km warranty, five-year/unlimited corrosion warranty and three-year/unlimited roadside assistance. Service intervals are 15 000km.
