Upcoming Bentley SUV To Feature New Styling Philosophy
Its been reported that the upcoming Bentley SUV which will be the brands flagship model will feature a new a styling philosophy.
New direction for Bentley styling
In an interview with Car & Driver, Bentley Design Director Luc Donckerwolke said “We are adapting the DNA of the brand to a new topology of car but its always good when you do something that the brand hasnt done before.
Although Donckerwolke didnt mention any specific details, the report says we can expect the SUV to come with a more muscular and sporty design, with perhaps a lower roof and more surface development around the wheels. These features are also expected to eventually spread to the rest of the lineup.
We have previously mentioned that the new Bentley SUV will go on sale in 2016 and will be Bentleys fourth model line to be built in Crewe. Engine options are said to include a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8, a 6.0-liter W12 and a plug-in hybrid variant for 2017.
Land Rover Discovery Sport (video)
The Land Rover Discovery Sport is set to be released come September 3 2014 along with stable buddy the Jaguar XE. The Discovery Sport will replace the underrated Land Rover Freelander as Land Rover looks to end the Freelander name in favour of the more popular Discovery moniker.
7-Seater Freelander
Interestingly the video shows a seven-seater styled layout with the middle row of seats running on sliders to give the rear occupants a bit more room.
The video also shows an enormous panoramic roof that runs the entire length of the roof.
The Discovery Sport is an evolution of the Land Rover Discovery Vision concept shown a few months ago. The Discovery Sport is likely to roll on an elongated chassis from the Evoque and share diesel and petrol engines with it as well.
Land Rover Discovery Sport Video
Safety Systems for Cars Explained
These days you’ll be hard-pressed to find a new car that doesn’t have some form of safety system, and if you do, you should think twice before buying it.
Most, if not all new cars on the market today will have some basic safety systems in place to help keep rubber on the road and passengers safe. Advancements in car safety systems is nothing short of astounding with new safety systems being introduced on a regular basis. This is all good and well, but the amount of safety systems and technical jargon can easily overwhelm an unknowing car buyer, but it needn’t be so. Safety is something that is, and should be, on every car buyer’s checklist and it therefore helps to know and understand what some of these safety systems are and what they actually do.
To help you get your head around all this safety talk, we have compiled a shortlist of common safety systems for cars along with helpful descriptions of each, just to put your mind at ease. Bare in mind some manufacturers have their own brand-specific names and terms for what’s essentially the same technology.
Know Your Car Safety Systems
Anti-lock Braking System – ABS
ABS is one of the most common safety systems fitted as standard on most new cars and is designed to help the driver maintain a level of steering ability under hard braking. ABS allows the driver to brake and steer simultaneously while preventing the wheels from locking and skidding across the road surface during emergency braking.
Adaptive Cruise Control – ACC
ACC is a form of cruise control where the driver sets the maximum travelling speed and a radar sensor locks onto the vehicle ahead and maintains a prescribed following distance. ACC is capable of adjusting speed according to the traffic situation and can both accelerate and brake if necessary. ACC does not require inputs from the driver but the system will disengage when the driver applies the brakes. ACC is also sometimes referred to as Intelligent Cruise Control or Active Cruise Control. In 1995, Mitsubishi was the first automaker to offer laser-based ACC on its Diamante model.
Adaptive Forward Lighting – AFL
AFL is an advanced lighting system that adjusts illumination depending on the steering direction and traffic situation. When turning into a corner, the headlamps will swivel or rotate to improve illumination into the corner and provide the driver with increased visibility of the road ahead.
Blind Spot Warning – BSW
Blind Spot Warning or Blind Spot Monitoring detects vehicles to the rear and side of your car using a vehicle-based sensor. When a vehicle is detected in the blind-spot, the driver will be alerted to the danger with either a flashing light or audible noise, or both. BSW is also sometimes referred to as Blind Spot Information System (BLIS).
Dynamic Stability Control – DSC
DSC is a computerised safety system that improves vehicle stability. Using sensors, DSC detects loss of control of the vehicle and takes the necessary action to regain control, such as braking or reducing engine power. DSC is also commonly known as Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Electronic Stability Program (ESP) or Vehicle Stability Control (VSC). Both BMW and Mercedes-Benz pioneered DSC technology from 1987 onwards.
Electronic Brake-force Distribution – EBD
EBD works in conjunction with ABS and allows braking force to be applied automatically to specific wheels with the help of sensors. Depending on specific conditions, such as the weight of the car and speed, the EBD sensors will determine which wheels need additional brake force and then apply that force as required to maintain control of the vehicle. EBD provides improved braking in all conditions.
Emergency Brake Assist – EBA
EBA is an active safety feature that helps the driver bring the vehicle to a stop faster in an emergency braking situation. The EBA system is designed to detect an emergency braking situation and applies additional braking force to help bring the vehicle to a safe stop. With Brake Assist, a vehicle’s stopping distance is drastically reduced. The Mercedes-Benz S-Class was the first model fitted with Brake Assist in 1996 and became a standard safety feature on all Merc models in 1998.
Head-Up Display – HUD
A HUD is a transparent display that communicates various information such as speed, revs and navigation to the driver. The information is usually projected onto the windscreen directly in front of the driver. A HUD helps keep the driver’s attention on the road while providing useful information.
Lane Departure Warning System – LDWS
LDWS is designed to warn a driver when the vehicle is veering out of its lane. The warning is communicated to the driver either via a flashing light, audible noise, vibration of the steering wheel/seats or a combination of warnings. In certain vehicles, if no action is taken, Lane Keeping Assist (LFA) will automatically intervene and keep the vehicle in its lane. Nissan was the first car brand to feature LDWS on its Cima model (Infiniti Q45).
Daytime Running Lights – DRLs
Daytime Running Lights are a common feature on modern cars and increase vehicle visibility during the day while using less energy than low-beam. DRLs switch on automatically and are turned off when the driver switches on the headlights.
TRC- Traction Control
TRC is a safety system designed to limit or reduce tyre slip. Sensors measure the difference in wheel speeds to determine if a wheel has lost traction and applies the brakes to that wheel to reduce wheel slip. Some TRC systems may even reduce engine power to specific wheels to prevent slip. Note that traction control cannot increase traction but can only help prevent wheels from spinning. TRC is also sometimes referred to as Electronic Traction Control (ETC).
TPMS – Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
A TPMS is designed to monitor tyre pressure and relay this information to the driver via a guage, pictogram or warning light. A TPMS alerts the driver to under-inflated tyres who can then rectify the problem. Properly inflated tyres are not only important for safety but also reduce rolling resistance which helps reduce overall fuel consumption.
Park Distance Control – PDC
PDC, also commonly known as Park Assist, helps drivers navigate into parking bays using parking or proximity sensors which detect obstacles while performing a parking maneuver. Warnings are communicated to the driver through audible noises or visual aids, or both.
BMW X5 Security Plus To Be Unveiled In Moscow
BMW is set to present the latest innovations of its model range and innovative technologies at the 2014 Moscow Motor Show with the BMW X5 Security Plus.
Comprehensive system of protection
The X5 Security Plus was first previewed by a concept at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show and has since been developed into a production model designed to meet the “highest requirements in the field” of passenger safety.
According to BMW, their Security Vehicles feature an intelligent combination of lightweight and robust materials that meet the strictest safety requirements while adding as little weight as possible. Pre-shaped aramid and polyethylene parts are combined with ultra-strong special steel to protect vulnerable joins in the vehicles structure. The brand adds that this doesnt at all affect the vehicles responsiveness and agile handling.
Detailed specifications are yet to be revealed, however BMW has confirmed the SUV will have a protection class rating of VR6. The only other vehicle in BMWs line-up that complies with a higher standard is the 7-Series High Security which is rated at VR7.
The BMW X5 Security Plus is said to be powered by a 4.4-litre TwinPower Turbo V8 engine that produces 330 kW and 650 Nm of torque and uses the xDrive all-wheel drive system.
More details on the model will be announced later this month during the 2014 Moscow show.
Jaguar XE interior built for Smartphones (Video)
Jaguars latest feature to be unwrapped from the upcoming Jaguar XE is its brand new infotainment system. The system intends to take Smartphone integration with the XE to a whole new level as they’re calling it better connected by far.
Remote Access
The connection system is built for Android and Apple devices and will allow the Smartphone to control certain functions of the car from anywhere in the world. Youll be able to change the climate control before you get in the car via the In Control Smartphone App.
Control your Apps
Jaguar will add an 8-inch touchscreen to the new XE that will connect with certain apps on your Smartphone. Things like information, navigation and entertainment can all be accessed through the infotainment system.
Super Wifi
Once your phone is connected it can boost your wifi strength by using the roof antenna. Take a look at the video below to see what else Jaguar plans for its entertainment system of the future.
Jaguar XE SVR in the Pipeline
Jaguar plans to take the wraps off the XE on September 8th followed by a debut motor show appearance in Paris in October. Reports are making the rounds that the jaguar XE will feature an SVR variant to take on the likes of the BMW M3. Its touted as having 364kW being dished to the ground via an eight-speed automatic transmission. Theyre hoping to get the jaguar XE SVR to crack the 100kph sprint time in four-seconds flat.
To see all the details on the new Jaguar XE sedan click here.
Jaguar XE Better Connected Video
55 Years Of MINI (Photos)
MINI is celebrating 55 years since its first classic model was originally introduced in Britain in 1959.
Original Mini delivered up to the 21st century
It was marketed as the Austin Seven and Morris Mini-Minor, and came in different radiator grille, hub caps and paint finishes. The small economy car was also considered a British icon of the 1960s and entered into popular culture with well-publicised purchases by film and music stars.
Designer Alec Issigonis’ concept was both simple and clever, and involved offering lots of interior space combined with minimum exterior dimensions, four seats, low fuel consumption and a reasonable price. These ideas were extended into the 21st century, and ever since BMW took over the MINI brand in 2001, theyve been trying to keep true to those values.
To celebrate the passing of 55 years, MINI enthusiasts from the classic MINI fan club and the MINI community in the UK met up in the county of Kent where they demonstrated their passion for the world’s most famous small car. Guests of honour at the anniversary included Paddy Hopkirk, who achieved the brand’s first win at the Monte Carlo Rally in a Mini Cooper S 50 years ago.
The vehicles on display ranged from one of the very first models ever made, dating back to 1960 to a classic Mini Clubman Estate and a 25 Special Edition Mini from 1984, through to one of the last classic Minis ever built back in 2000, as well as the new Hardtop launched this year.
Mazda to go Diesel Hybrid Route
Mazda plans to be the first Japanese manufacturer to go down the diesel-electric route. Reports coming from Japan suggest that Mazda could be ready to reveal the technology by 2016.
Mazda engine details
Mazda does currently make a petrol hybrid that is sold in Europe and Japan. The Mazda3 SKYACTIV-G 2.0-litre and its electric motor combined with the CVT transmission is capable of 3.2l/100km. Mazda reckons that if they were to go the diesel electric way they could manage an even lower number of 2.5l/100km.
Details are scarce at this early stage of development, but Mazda could be looking at implementing the diesel hybrid tech into the Mazda3 in 2016. The switch from petrol to diesel comes as growth in sales for diesel cars is on the rise. 50% of cars sold in Europe are diesel powered and even japan is showing year on year growth in diesel propelled cars.
*Mazda 3 Concept sketch pictured
Volkswagen Polo 1.2 TSI (2014) Review
South Africa loves the Volkswagen Polo, its consistently been a top seller in the market over the generations. Currently its SAs second best-selling passenger vehicle behind its sibling the Polo Vivo.
2014 marks the introduction of the face-lifted model with a new Highline model joining the range. So will it continue its sales storm in the wake of strong competition from the tiny turbo brigade?
Choose your 1.2 turbo
Currently theres only a 1.2-litre turbo petrol to choose from, but there are two different power outputs to differentiate the models. Our test unit here in Cornflower Blue has the entry 66 kW variant with 160 Nm of torque. Top of the range models in the new Polo lineup get an 81 kW and 175 Nm version of the same 1.2-litre.
Our 66 kW felt very refined and smooth, with no excessive lag at low RPM. It never felt hard pressed to get on with speedy town driving and proved to have a perfect blend of power, torque and fuel economy. Speaking of the fuel economy, VW claims a combined figure of 4.9l/100km.
We were particularly impressed by the 5.5l/100km figure we cracked over our test week as it became a team game to see if we could drain the seemingly never-ending 45-litre tank the Polo has. Whilst its fuel economy might not rank right up there with some of the 3-cylinder turbos doing the rounds in the competition, the added torque benefit of slightly more capacity does make the Polo easier to live with come freeway time.
Inside Talk
The Volkswagen Polo has a solidly built interior. The finishing and sense of quality you get from a Volkswagen product still shines through. The updated multimedia interface is easy to work with and if you spec the more sophisticated composition colour system as our car had, you get two extra speakers, CD player, MP3 functionality, SD-card input and USB and Bluetooth connectivity.
The multimedia unit also allows you to adjust vehicle settings like how many doors unlock when you press the remote, how long the lights stay on once locked, auto wiper and a few other vehicle adjustments. Its great to see this tech trickling down to the entry level products. The rest of the inside of the Polo is as you were and a mix of soft touch rubber and robust plastic, its never been a stylish place to be, but classy and functional best describes its insides. The seats are nice and firm and have a sense of durability about them too; youll struggle to get larger people in the back even though the facelift is a minute 2 mm longer.
Drive Time
The new Volkswagen Polo has an impressive ride to add to its arsenal. Driving over some of the bumpiest roads in the Western Cape, the Polo felt planted and safe, soaking up the bumps well, only when the corrugations in the road got excessively large did the Polo get a bit crashy on the ride. Still its nicely planted, firm feel inspires confidence as the small proportions make it an easy car to get comfortable with.
It has a decent array of safety systems too, the regular ABS and EBD are on board, and a nifty new driver alert system detects waning concentration and alerts the driver via an acoustic warning, and a message appears in the instrument cluster recommending a break from driving.
Final Word
From the outside the Polo may not look distinctly different, theres the odd change to the bumpers front and back, but its nothing to shout about. What is to shout is the 1.2-litre engine that does a great job of straddling the line between fuel economy and driveability.
Ride and handling wise the Polo remains a class leader; its comfortable and simple to live with on a day-to-day basis. The interior carries all the essentials and whilst style and swoopy lines has never been Volkswagens highest priority at least the Polo has a practical and user friendly inside. The Volkswagen Polo does have strong competition from top sellers Clio and Fiesta; squeeze in a Peugeot 208 in there if youre looking for something a bit different. We cant even quibble about the expense of the VW any more as its pretty much spot on with the equivalent competitors.
Second opinion
The new Volkswagen Polo is good. Annoyingly good. In fact, I’d go as far to say it’s faultless. Volkswagen has done a sterling job here and the new Polo offers a terrific combination of comfort, premium feel and a great engine in one sweet little package. – David Taylor
VW Polo 1.2 TSI 66kW Comfortline Price
Base Price: R213 400
Price as tested: R221 750
Options fitted:
Park distance control: R3 000
Cruise Control: R1 700
Light and Vision package: R3 650
Volkswagen Polo 1.2 TSI quick specs
Engine
1.2-litre four-cylinder turbo
Power
66 kW
Torque
160 Nm
Transmission
Five-speed Manual
Wheels
15-inch alloys
0-100km/h
10.8 seconds (claimed)
Fuel economy
4.9 l/100 km (claimed)
We like:
. Small turbo engine
. Quality feel
. Road manners
Next Generation Volkswagen Golf Early Details Revealed
Volkswagen is rumoured to be already developing the next-generation Golf ahead of the model’s 2019 scheduled launch.
Innovative aerodynamic technologies for the next generation Volkswagen Golf
Said to mimic technical features of the XL1 model in order to reduce the average CO2 emissions, the next generation Volkswagen Golf is expected to sit just below 90 g/km. This is due to the European Union CO2 emissions restrictions that are set to come into effect in 2020.
Autocar is reporting that given the need for such a significant reduction in average fuel consumption, VW engineers are unlikely to be able to just bet on another round of engine improvements. They will instead need to exploit every new trick in the book, including the most advanced aerodynamic treatment yet seen on a production vehicle.
According to sources within the Volkswagen Group, a fundamental difficulty facing the engineers and designers is that, proportionately, the Golf is quite a short car. So a number of aerodynamic solutions are currently being investigated, and one possible solution, according to a VW source is to extend the hatchbacks rear spoiler further over the rear window, along with deep blade-like extensions along the upright sides of the window.
New Golf to be based on MQB platform
The Golf will also be based on the MQB platform which will provide the base and a targeted kerb weight of below 1100kg. There are also a number of technologies that are being discussed for implementation such as the Flywheel system which is already being tested by Volvo. The system can be used to power the rear wheels of a front-wheel-drive car, and can store waste energy and release it like an electric motor and battery.
Volvos system recharges from braking and offers 10 sec and 59 kW of drive assistance. If Volkswagen implements this system, it could provide the next generation Golf with up to 30 kW.
Another technology feature that is set to be implemented in the new Golf is the variable compression ratio engine which will be able to vary an engines compression ratio depending on the demands being placed on it which should then lead to significant advances in efficiency.
Coasting technology
Coasting technology will apparently be implemented into the Volkswagen range over the next few years and is expected to be rolled out in three stages. The first stage coasting at speed is already featured on some VW dual-clutch gearboxes. The last version will include transmission decoupling as well as engine shutdown while cruising at speed, traveling downhill or slowing down.
Its also said that Volkswagen will make use of electric turbochargers which will be especially useful for downsized engines, which generate little exhaust gas energy, especially at low speed. This system blows air through the turbo when the engine is decelerating, spinning the turbo fan up to speed, so that full boost is available as soon as the driver gets back on the accelerator.
More details are said to be made available leading to the cars official launch.
The annual Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance auto show has been held in Pebble Beach since 1950. The event focuses on classic cars, and each year features a particular marque as its focus. This year Maserati was one of the brands to take centre stage with a range of sporting performance models. In addition to the car competition, there is an auction, a classic car tour, and an automotive art exhibit.
Take a look at what was trending at this year’s show in the gallery below.
