Next-Generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class To Feature New Technology

The next-generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class is said to feature a host of new technology systems when it launches in 2018.

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is regarded as the benchmark vehicle for innovative and groundbreaking technologies. All the technology you see in normal cars was first launched in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, so this is one model to watch.

Next-Generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class to be packed with technological innovation

According to Auto Express, Mercedes chief interior designer Jan Kaul confirmed that the company is currently working on a number of innovations that will be fitted in the next-gen S-Class. These include gesture controls, 3D-printed trim pieces, plus lightweight one-piece seats and one-piece air vents.

Kaul didnt go into specifics but he did say that the company is working on gesture controls for some functions, but of course, using hand signals is not right for everything.

For example, if you are inputting a destination to the navigation, this is easier with voice recognition or a menu than gestures. But it is something we are continuing to work on, and you will see it soon, he explained.

He also mentioned that some of the features seen on the S-Class Coupe Concept that was shown at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show such as the unique one-piece seats and one-piece air vents are coming very soon. The one-piece seats are difficult because we must make the stitching and leather last the life of the car, but our designers are working very hard.

The designer also revealed that integrating the infotainment system into the digital instrument cluster just like in the 2015 TT is something they will look at. However, he mentioned that they do things because they are right for them and not because their rivals do.

More details are expected to be revealed leading to the cars official launch which is said to be in 2018.

*Pictured is the 2014 Mercedes-Benz-S-Class.

2014 Honda Ballade 1.5 Review

After attending the launch of the all-new Honda Ballade earlier this year, it was time to evaluate it for a week. What is the 2014 Honda Ballade really like?

Engine and economy

Powering the 2014 Honda Ballade is the same 1.5 naturally-aspirated four-cylinder motor as its predecessor. While there have been some tweaks to the powerplant for slightly improved economy, it still feels same old, same old. In typical Honda fashion, you’ll need to give it a healthy dose of revs to get all that torque out which will affect the fuel economy.

As far as figures go, you’re looking at outputs of 88 kW and 145 Nm, while Honda claims a fuel consumption figure of 5.9l/100km. We weren’t able to match that and our test route saw mid-7s appear on the read-out. Still, not bad going.

Specification and space

Specification and space is where the 2014 Honda Ballade really shines the most. Space for a small-looking sedan is commendable and what’s especially handy is the boot dimensions. It may share the same platform as the forthcoming Honda Jazz, but that’s not stopping it from boasting generous rear legroom even for taller folk.

The 2014 Honda Ballade Elegance receives a built-in infotainment system featuring USB and Bluetooth connectivity. There’s a neat 180 mm colour touchscreen and the clever software allows you to connect your Apple and Android smartphone and use the phone’s features via the car. If you have a navigation application such as Google Maps, you could use this instead of forking out for a Garmin or TomTom unit.

Also thrown into the mix is a reverse camera, cruise control, two USB ports, HDMI port as well as some solid safety features like six airbags and vehicle stability assist, which is a form of traction control.

Summary and conclusion

It’s not a bad drive, but I do wonder how Honda can offer such contrasting products. The Civic Hatch on one hand offers wonderful Europeanesque styling and features which are premium look and feel, yet on the other hand the Ballade has some distinctly budget touches. The inside of the bootlid has no carpeting for instance and it sounds cheap and nasty when closing. There are a couple of other interior pieces which are plasticky to the touch. This seems to be a common trait among cars built in India…

The competition in this segment is fierce. Value for money and brand power are key here, and fortunately Honda ticks those boxes. That said, I think the Ballade could do with a couple more premium finish touches on the interior to justify its pricetag.

Second opinion

The improved Honda Ballade offering is just that, improved. It still has a few quality issues that need resolving, like sound insulation and interior material choices. Still not quite the Honda we were expecting. – Ashley Oldfield

2014 Honda Ballade Price in South Africa

The Honda Ballade 1.5 Elegance retails for R220 990, but there is a lower-specced Trend model for R195 900. Both versions come in a choice of manual or CVT. Included in the price is a three-year or 100 000 km warranty, a four-year or 60 000 km service plan and a years worth of free roadside assistance.

Honda Ballade 1.5 Elegance quick specs

Price	R220 990
Engine	1.5-litre four-cylinder
Power	88 kW
Torque	145 Nm
Transmission	Five-speed Manual
Wheels	15-inch alloys
0-100km/h	9.6 seconds (claimed)
Fuel economy	5.9 l/100 km (claimed)

We like:
. Specification
. Interior space

We dislike:
. Some cheap touches not befitting of a R200k vehicle
. Engine needs to be pushed to get the best from it, meaning reduced fuel economy

Also consider:
Toyota Corolla Quest
Hyundai Accent
Chevrolet Cruze
Volkswagen Polo sedan

Best SUVs in SA – Mid to Large Size

Choosing the best SUVs in the mid to large category is no easy task. We have already given you our list of the best compact SUVs and best medium-size SUVs in South Africa, but now it’s time to have a look at the slightly more luxurious mid to large SUVs in SA for 2014.

This segment of the SUV market is hotly contested in South Africa and there are many strong and capable contenders in this segment, but in the end, there can be only three. Attractive options like the Porsche Macan, Lexus RX range and Infiniti QX50, among others, were struck off the roll to make way for our top recommendations in this segment. Gentlemen (and ladies), start your engines…

Best SUVs in South Africa

Audi Q5

The Audi Q5 is a superb product, whichever way you look at it. The Q5 exhibits pleasant all-round styling, excellent refinement and superior driving and handling dynamics. To sweeten the Q5 proposition, a solid range of diesel and petrol engines are available. We recommend the 2.0-litre TDI diesel engine, which offers either 105 kW/320 Nm or 130 kW/380 Nm. Just remember that the optional equipment list is long and the top-of-the-range Audi Q5 models can become costly. Pricing for the Audi Q5 starts at R530 500.

Range Rover Evoque

Look at the Range Rover Evoque. Just look at it. It’s flawless and beautiful. From its sexy design, impressive interior and superb drive, the Evoque excels on all fronts. Despite its squeaky clean fashionable looks, the Evoque is also a capable off-roader with its Terrain Response System, which is an added bonus. The Range Rover Evoque is offered with either a 177 kW/340 Nm 2.0-litre Si4 petrol turbo engine or a 140 kW/420 Nm SD4 turbodiesel engine. Pricing for the Range Rover Evoque starts from R615 800.

BMW X3

The BMW X3 is, hands down, one of the best SUVs on the road today. With its excellent road manners and exceptional build quality, the X3 is a no-brainer. The X3 is offered with a wide range of powerful petrol and diesel engines to keep you on your toes with the 140 kW/400 Nm 2.0-litre diesel engine offering good balance between power and economy with a claimed fuel economy of 5-litres/100 km. Pricing for the BMW X3 starts from R535 000.

Look out for our pick of the best luxury SUVs in South Africa for 2014 coming soon where we’ll dig into those big behemoths we all love so much.

All-New 2015 Subaru Legacy Earns IIHS Top Safety Pick

The all-new 2015 Subaru Legacy has earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

2015 Subaru Legacy excels in small overlap test

The Legacy received a ‘good’ rating in the strict IIHS small overlap front crash test, thanks to the improvements made for the 2015 model year. The model also received top marks in every measurement category, including the new forward collision alert.

The Legacy scored top marks in all other categories, including the new forward collision alert rating. For a vehicle to earn the plus designation, it must have some sort of forward collision alert.

The Legacys EyeSight system, which is basically a forward collision warning system that includes an automated braking function was tested by the IIHS and managed to bring the vehicle to a halt in the 12 and 25 mph front crash avoidance tests.

In addition, the previous-generation Legacy was also an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ vehicle, and earned an acceptable rating in the small overlap front test. Structural performance improved to good for the 2015 Legacy, compared with a marginal score for the outgoing model.

The driver space was maintained well, with the safety cage preventing excessive intrusion into the occupant compartment. The dummy’s movement was well-controlled, and the frontal and side curtain airbags worked together to protect the head from contact with interior structures. Ratings for restraints, dummy kinematics, and injury measures for the head and neck, chest, pelvis, and legs and feet are all good, states the IIHS.

Subaru also has the most 2014 Top Safety Pick awards of any brand. Its other winners include the BRZ, Impreza, Forester, WRX and XV Crosstrek.

Subaru South Africa confirmed that the 2015 Outback will be coming to market, while the Legacy sedan is still under consideration.

2015 Subaru Legacy small overlap IIHS crash test video

Opel ADAM Headed To SA

General Motors South Africa (GMSA) has confirmed it will be introducing a number of new models to the South African market, including the Opel ADAM which is set to reach our shores in 2015.

Opel ADAM to offer an exciting and engaging driving experience

The Opel ADAM was first shown to the South African public at last years Johannesburg International Motor Show, where it showed off its staggering amount of personalisation options. The models 2015 introduction is said to be part of the brands global product plan to present 27 new vehicles and 17 engines in applicable markets by 2018.

The ADAM experience is all about the freedom to create and own an individual, personalised car through which the owner can express their lifestyle preferences and tastes. In addition to customisation, the ADAM offers an exciting and engaging driving experience and as with all Opel vehicles it comes packed with standard innovative technology and specification, says Opel Brand Manager, Christopher Cradock.

The Opel ADAM will attract a new generation of customers to the Opel brand and open up an exciting world of personalised motoring for drivers looking for an individual driving experience, continues Cradock.

Its dimensions measure 3.7 meters in length and 1.72 meters in width which is slightly larger than the 500, but almost identical to the MINI hatch. Its said to provide enough room to seat four people in what is described as a premium level atmosphere.

Engine and model derivatives for the local market will be finalised closer to the time of launch.

Opel Mokka Compact SUV Confirmed for SA

The Opel Mokka is set to be introduced into SA as the German manufacturer seeks a full reintroduction to the country. In one swoop, Opel has announced it will import both Mokka and the baby hatch – Adam in 2015.

Opel Mokka in Global Growth Pursuit

The Opel Mokka aims to appropriate some of the expanding compact SUV segment that has seen new entrants rise to the top of local sales. Opel Brand Manager, Christopher Cradock commented that over 240 000 Mokka orders have been placed in Europe this is not only an exceptionally important factor in the growth of the Opel brand on a global level, but also proves that Mokka is a worthy contender in a segment which is experiencing exponential growth all over the world.

With Mokka we expect to see a new group of savvy consumers gravitate towards the Opel brand, who seek a fashionable sub-compact SUV which is exciting to drive and offers the solid quality and precision of a German-engineered product.

Also announced today was the Opel ADAM, Isuzu KB Midnite edition as well as special editions of the Sonic and Spark.

Opel up to Six Cars

Whilst the Opel Mokka is only expected to make its debut in the second quarter of 2015 its good to see Opel looking to expand in SA after a few years on the back-burner. Currently it only has the Astra, Corsa, Meriva and Vivaro on its roster and the addition of Adam and Mokka should bode well considering both vehicles have received positive reviews in Europe.

Opel Mokka Competition

The compact SUV/Crossover segment is starting to build up a head of steam and Mokka will have to compete against the likes of the Nissan Juke, Ford Ecosport and even the Mini Countryman. We look forward to getting behind the wheel soon. For a list of the best compact SUV’s check out our top five here.

Chevrolet Spark, Sonic Black & White Editions Announced

Chevrolet South Africa has announced the arrival of ‘Black & White’ special edition Spark and Sonic models in South Africa, albeit in limited numbers. The limited edition Chevrolet Spark and Sonic ‘Black & White’ models feature sporty upgrades and improved specification.

Chevrolet Sonic Black & White Special Edition

Only 200 Sonic Black & White Special Edition models will be available in Carbon Flash Black or Snowflake White Pearl with the side mirrors and rear spoiler painted in contrasting ‘Orange Rock’. Extra features include the Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system and black 16-inch alloy wheels. The Chevrolet Sonic Black & White Special Edition is powered by the proven 1.6-litre petrol engine offering 85 kW of power and 155 Nm of torque.

Chevrolet Spark Black & White Special Edition

Only 300 Chevrolet Spark Black & White Special Edition models are available in Thunder Flash Black or Athenian White. The model features 15-inch alloy wheels, contrasting black and white decals, light titanium upholstery, gloss black interior details, sport pedals, stainless steel door sill plates, unique side skirts and a chrome detail package. The Chevrolet Spark Black & White Edition is powered by a 60 kW / 108 Nm 1.2-litre petrol engine.

Both Special Edition models come standard with a 5-year / 120 000 km warranty and roadside assistance plan. A 3-year / 60 000 km service plan is also standard for both models.

The Chevrolet Sonic Black & White Edition will be available in August and will be followed by the Chevrolet Spark Black & White Edition in September 2014. Prices will be revealed at a later stage.

Isuzu KB Midnite Edition Announced For SA

General Motors South Africa has announced the arrival of the Isuzu KB Midnite Edition – a limited edition exclusive model. There will only be 500 Isuzu KB Midnite Editions made available.

The 6th generation of the Isuzu KB bakkie has done reasonably well. More than 20 000 units have been sold since the product’s launch back in March 2013. Fast forward to 2014 and we’ve got the limited run Isuzu KB Midnite Edition being made available. Specifically this vehicle is a standard Isuzu KB 300 double cab, with a host of extra features.

“The new Midnite Edition continues Isuzu’s heritage of special models in South Africa. Limited edition vehicles are part of Isuzu’s DNA in our country, and the new Midnite Edition has the looks and appeal to attract attention on the road and set its owners apart from the rest,” says General Motors South Africa Isuzu Brand Manager, Mlungisi Nonkonyana.

Isuzu KB Midnite Edition details

With three colours of red, metallic silver or white to choose from, the Isuzu KB Midnite Edition features a specialised black bumper guard and black radiator grille. The black theme continues down the sides of the Isuzu KB Midnite Edition with black mirror caps, roof rails, side steps, window surrounds, black sportsbar behind the cab complete with Midnite Edition decals, and branded door sill plates. Finally, there’s some tasty black 17-inch alloy wheels to round off the Isuzu KB Midnite Edition.

There are three Isuzu KB Midnite Edition models to choose from. The engine is the same across the range and is the tried and tested 3.0-litre D-TEQ diesel engine with 130 kW and 380 Nm on tap, with the choice of a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission with a 4×2 drivetrain, or 4×4 with a manual gearbox only.

Isuzu KB Midnite Edition price in South Africa

The Isuzu KB Midnite Edition goes on sale from the end of September 2014. Pricing will be announced shortly. The Isuzu KB Midnite Edition comes standard with a 5-year/ 120 000 km warranty and a 5-year/ 90 000 km service plan, with service intervals scheduled every 15 000 km.

Infiniti Releases Mysterious Teaser Image For Paris Motor Show

The 2014 Paris Motor Show is set to begin in October, and leading to that Infiniti has announced plans to introduce a mysterious model that promises to offer style and substance that push any preconceived limits.

The teaser image doesn’t reveal much but the company says they will “share a vision its soul on a scale not seen before.”

In addition, previous reports have suggested the company is planning on introducing a new small crossover called the QX30 (based on the Q30) and will slot just below the QX50.

More details are expected to emerge leading to the show in October.

Mazda 2 MPS on the Cards

Latest reports coming from the Japanese manufacturer lean towards the inception of a Mazda 2 MPS to join the Mazda lineup.

Mazda 2 MPS

Still just a thought in the heads of the engineers, Mazda seems keen to keep the Mazda 2 relevant over the course of its life cycle and a new model to spice up the range could do just that. A Mazda 2 MPS would aspire to kick it in the big leagues with the likes of the Ford Fiesta ST, Renault Clio RS and VW Polo GTI, not with the smaller spicy hatches such as Suzukis Swift Sport and the Chev Sonic RS.

To get to that level of hot hatchiness, Mazda would need to fettle with the chassis and suspension workings of the Mazda 2, as well as sourcing an engine from something else. The soon to be launched Mazda MX5 could have the answer in a small capacity turbo. Details are scarce on that too and we’ll have to wait until 4 September 2014 to get final details on the MX5.

*Mazda 2 sketch pictured