Following rumours that Ford is planning on bringing a new Focus RS by 2016, the company has confirmed the model will be part of its global programme to produce 12 new high performance models under a new Ford Performance banner between now and 2020.
Ford Focus RS to be available globally
The company is yet to detail any specifics but confirmed the RS ‘will be available to customers in major markets around the world for the first time.’ Also that ‘it is part of Fords plan to deliver even more performance vehicles, parts and accessories for customers around the world more quickly.’
Ford remains committed to innovation through performance, said Raj Nair, Ford group vice president, Global Product Development. Our new global Ford Performance team ties together racing, performance vehicles and parts. It will allow us to more quickly introduce products and accessories that meet the needs of customers around the world on-road and on the track.
In addition, Ford mentioned that it will be amalgamating its various performance divisions – such as Ford Racing, Ford SVT and Team RS into the new Ford Performance organisation.
The Ford Focus RS will join Fords existing performance lineup, including Fiesta ST, Focus ST, Shelby GT350 Mustang and F-150 Raptor.
Please note pictured is the 2009 Ford Focus RS.
BMW Reveals 6-Series Updates
BMW has released details on the updates coming to the 6-Series in 2015. The revisions are broadcast across all three models within the 6-Series range that includes the Convertible, Gran Coupe and standard 6-Series Coupe.
BMW 6-Series Facelift Details
The exterior revisions are minute and limited to a slight modification to the kidney grille and LED headlights are now standard features. New Jatoba metallic, Cashmere Silver metallic, Glacier Silver metallic, Mediterranean Blue metallic and Melbourne Red metallic paintwork finishes are new colours added to the range.
The interior now offers bi-colour leather trim as an option. The latest generation of BMWs head-up display is now also available.
The engine lineup remains as it was pre-facelift with six-cylinder models and V8s available. The 6-Series can now be specced as all-wheel drive with BMWs XDrive system fitted. The result is a slightly faster acceleration, but with a 75kg weight disadvantage.
If you go all out and choose the M6 model with the M Drivers Package top speed increases from a standard 250kph to an incredible 305kph.
The facelifted 6-Series will make its international debut at the Detroit Motor Show in 2015. We should see the new BMW M6 in South Africa in the second quarter of 2015.
Opel Adam (2014) Driven
The last launch of the year has come and gone, and it was Opel who took the opportunity to end the year on a high with its new Adam city slicker.
On the eve of the Adam launch (see what I did there), I was thinking about where Opel currently sits in the local pecking order. Of late, the brand has been overshadowed by its Chevrolet sibling and considering Opel’s ties to South Africa, this is quite sad. Luckily for fans of Opel, the brand claims its back and will be tackling 2015 with a number of new products. The first product is the Opel Adam, and it will go on sale in January 2015.
The Opel Adam is claimed to take on the lifestyle-orientated city car market. Rivals included the Fiat 500, Citroen DS3 and the segment-leading MINI Cooper. Trademarks of these cars include fun factor, plenty customisation options and class and charm by the truckload. With these vehicles, it’s all about individualisation and making your car unique.
The competition is already quite deeply entrenched into the market, with all three competitors boasting reasonable sales. So what will make the Adam succeed? Firstly I think its better looking than most and secondly, I think its pricing will see it slot under the Citroen DS3 and Mini Cooper. Despite the crazy exchange rate, Opel is claiming that it can bring the Adam in for between R200 000 and R250 000, which is pretty good considering the specification.
Opel Adam Models
Speaking of specification, there are three models to choose from:
Adam 1.4 Essentia – R189 900 Adam Jam 1.0T ecoFLEX – R209 900 Adam Glam 1.0T ecoFLEX – R232 900
The 1.4 Essential makes do with the 1.4-litre engine which has 74 kW and 130 Nm. What you really want is the all-new 1.0-litre turbo three-cylinder engine which has 85 kW and 170 Nm. Not only is this engine a great performer, but it’s supposedly light on fuel. I say supposedly, because I wasn’t driving it in a fuel efficient manner along the launch route. The route took us on the winding road of Clarence Drive between Gordons Bay and Kleinmond, and with such a great chassis and sporty suspension, it was a joy to drive.
Specification
In terms of specification, you get a fair whack of technology thrown in. This is no bare-bones model and it comes with a full host of the latest toys from the General Motors family. There’s a new touchscreen infotainment system called IntelliLink (MyLink for Chevrolet). I’ve really enjoyed it in the past on the Chevrolet models and its just so intuitive. .This system enables navigation from your smartphone to be connected to the car. You can also make use of the TuneIn radio streaming service.
For the safety conscious, the new Opel Adam comes with six airbags, ABS with BAS and EBD, ESP Plus, ISOFIX child seat anchors, hill-start assist and a blindspot alert system. The cars also feature tyre pressure monitors and automatic parking for the Jam and Glam.
The basic 1.4 Adam comes with 15-inch alloys, daytime running lights, front fog-lights, heated and electric side-mirrors, cruise control with a speed limiter, a five-speaker radio/CD audio system (USB and auxiliary), a leather-bound multi-functional steering wheel (with rake/reach adjustment), Bluetooth, tinted windows with electric operation, colour-coded key fob, split-folding rear seats, speed-sensitive power steering (with City Mode) and manual air-conditioning.
The mid-range Jam adds a drive assist display, 16-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, LED brake lights, IntelliLink with seven speakers, front and rear parking sensors, Side Blind Zone Alert, and side mirrors matched to the roof colour.
Finally, the top of the range Glam includes automatic lights, rain-sensing wipers and electro-chromatic rear-mirror, climate control, eight multi-colour ambient light settings, panoramic sunroof or “64 Starz” headliner (which uses 64 individual LED elements), and 17-inch alloy wheels.
The Drive
As mentioned, our launch took me around the Overstrand region and on those tight and twisty roads, the Opel Adam was an eager and willing playmate. It may not boast performance credentials, but its still wanting to entertain. If you want some performance, then you’ll have to wait for the Adam S. The old Opel gearbox which wasn’t the greatest of units has been ditched, and in its place is a solid six-speed manual (on the Jam and Glam models).
One particular feather in the cap of the Opel Adam is the quietness and refinement. At times you could easily be fooled into thinking the engine has switched off. When idling, the engine is remarkably quiet and its only as the revs start climbing do you get the typical growl from the three-cylinder engine. Come off the accelerator after 2 000rpm and there’s a cheeky turbo wastegate sound. If you have the mental of age of 18 like me, this will never cease to be a source of amusement. There’s no turbo lag either, and you can put your foot down in most gears and the engine responds quickly.
So, a quick summary for the Opel Adam. Well, I think Opel has done a great job with the Adam. Not only is it an effortlessly stylish city car, it also happens to drive exceptionally well. My initial thoughts would say go for broke and get the 1.0-litre models as that engine is just so good.
We’ll be driving an Opel Adam Jam over the December 2014 holidays and we’ll let you know how it goes with a review and holiday diary.
Volkswagen Ushers In New Jetta To SA – Specs and Prices
Volkswagen has introduced the new Jetta in SA with a number of enhancements for the 2015 model year.
The new Jetta is sportier and modern
The new Jetta comes with redesigned radiator grille with three cross fins, optional bi-xenon headlights with cornering, turn signal and LED daytime driving lights as well as a new bumper. Aerodynamics have been improved resulting in a 10% reduction of drag, while dimensions sit at 4659 mm long, 1778 mm wide (without door mirrors) and 1482 mm tall.
The interior now features new instruments in a sporty tube look, multifunction display in the instruments, a new generation steering wheel, new accents for the centre console, elegant high-gloss black trim around the gear shift lever, new chrome accents (varies by derivative), redesigned controls for the air nozzles, ambient lighting (only available as an option with Highline derivatives) as well as designs for the seats and door trim.
Engines
The engine line-up is unchanged and includes a choice of five engines: three petrol units 1.2 TSI 77kW, 1.4 TSI 90kW and 1.4 TSI 118kW plus two diesel units: 1.6 TDI 77kW and a 2.0 TDI 103kW.
Equipment and trim
The Jetta is offered in three different trim levels: Trendline, Comfortline and Highline. Below are key features of each equipment level.
Trendline
Manual aircon
Radio RCD-310 with 8-loudspeakers
Front, centre armrest with storage box
Multifunction steering wheel
Electric windows front and rear
Driver and front passenger’s front and side airbags with passenger airbag deactivation switch
Driver and front passenger’s seat height adjustment
Height and reach adjustable steering wheel
IsoFix child seat preparation for two outer rear seats
Glovebox, cooled and illuminated
Leather steering wheel
Leather gear knob & handbrake handle
Electric exterior mirrors, separately heated
Body-coloured bumpers and door handles
Body-coloured door mirrors with integrated indicators incorporating LED technology
Auto-dimming interior mirror
Separate daytime running lights
Windshield wiper intermittent control with rain sensor
Black radiator grille
Black lower air intake
16″ alloy rims
16″ steel spare
Hill-hold
Cruise control
Electronic stability control
USB port
Cloth upholstery
Comfortline (as per Trendline specifications plus)
Tyre-pressure monitors
Front fog lights
Chromed exterior trim (includes upper grille)
Radio/CD (6-CD changer, SD reader, touchscreen)
Rear centre armrest, two cupholders
12V socket in boot
16″ alloy rims
Highline (as per Comfortline specifications plus)
Sports front seats
Auto aircon
Cloth upholstery
16″ steel spare
Chromed window mouldings
Front fog-lights, static cornering lights
Headlight washers
17″ alloy rims
Optional features
17″ alloy rims
Power sunroof
Leather upholstery
Front and rear parking radar
Bluetooth phone preparation
Satellite navigation
Rear-view camera
Towbar (except for 1.2 TSI)
Bi-xenon headlights with diode daytime running lights
Keyless access (locking and starting system)
New Volkswagen Jetta price in South Africa
New Volkswagen Jetta 1.2 TSI 77kW Trendline – R258 000
New Volkswagen Jetta 1.4 TSI 90kW Trendline – R272 500
New Volkswagen Jetta 1.4 TSI 90kW Comfortline – R286 700
New Volkswagen Jetta 1.4 TSI 90kW Comfortline DSG – R302 700
New Volkswagen Jetta 1.6 TDI 77kW Comfortline – R302 900
New Volkswagen Jetta 1.6 TDI 77kW Comfortline DSG – R318 900
New Volkswagen Jetta 1.4 TSI 118kW Highline DSG – R331 900
New Volkswagen Jetta 2.0 TDI 103kW Highline DSG – R358 000
The new Jetta comes standard with a five-year or 90 000km service plan, three-year of 120 000km warranty and a 12-year no rust-through warranty. Service intervals is 15 000km.
MINI John Cooper Works Uncovered (Video with Tony Hawk)
The all-new MINI John Cooper Works has been revealed ahead of its debut at next months 2015 Detroit Auto Show.
MINI John Cooper Works prematurely revealed
According to CarAdvice, the new-generation JCW weighs 100 kg less than its predecessor and will get its power from a four-cylinder turbo petrol engine pumping out 170 kW between 5200-6000 rpm, while torque will peak at 320 Nm across 1250-4800 rpm range.
The engine is said to be mated to either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic with paddle shifters, while an electronic differential lock will help the car through the corners. The range-topping MINI will apparently complete the zero to 100kph run in 6.3 seconds, which will take 0.2 seconds less if you choose the optional six-speed auto.
Fuel consumption in the manual JCW is rated to be an average of 6.7L/100km, while the automatic variant will sit at 5.7L/100 km.
Cosmetic tweaks include a standalone front apron, larger air intakes a more prominent rear spoiler, 17-inch alloy wheels (18-inch optional), and Brembo brakes. Inside you will find a three-spoke sports steering wheel, stainless steel pedal set, updated instrument cluster, a different gear lever and unique finishes.
We should see the new MINI John Cooper Works go on sale in South Africa in the second quarter of 2015. Pricing will be confirmed soon.
Tony Hawk and the Mini JCW
Refreshed Hyundai i30 Unveiled with New Turbo Variant
The Hyundai i30 has been introduced with a mid-life facelift including improved engines, a new seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, safety and comfort features and refreshed exterior design as well as a range-topping Turbo version.
Refreshed, sophisticated design
The high-performance Hyundai i30 Turbo highlights the cars sporty character of the car with a new radiator grille, front and rear bumper with red detailing, new front LED design and twin exhausts and 18-inch alloy wheels. New interior design features include sports front seats, sports instrument cluster and contrasting red details on the steering wheel, gear knob and door trims.
The regular i30 has also got some updates with the mid-life facelift, which include a new accentuated hexagonal grille, newly designed alloy wheels (16- and 17-inch), as well as three new exterior colours: Polar White and Orange Caramel. The New i30 Turbo will additionally be available on the five-door model, in a range of unique paint finishes including the new colour: Jet Black.
Enhanced engine range
The New i30 is available with an expanded choice of engines – all Euro6 compliant – with power outputs ranging from 74 kW to 137 kW and CO2 emissions from as low as 94 g/km.
The 1.6-litre diesel engine will be available in two power output versions of 81 kW and 100 kW, while petrol options include a new 74 kW and 135 Nm Kappa engine that is lighter, and is available with a 6-speed manual. Theres also a 1.6 litre Gamma engine capable of 88 kW and 156 Nm, available either with a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic.
The new turbo variant is powered by a 137 kW, 1.6-litre turbocharged engine, developed to focus on sporty driving dynamics and everyday usability. Acceleration to 100kph is achieved in 8 seconds and top speed stands at 219 kph.
The refreshed Hyundai i30 lineup (including the Turbo version) is expected to go on sale in the first months of 2015.
Citroen C4 gets a Mild Facelift for 2015
The Citroen C4 is one of the more bland designs from the French manufacturer in recent times. The plan being to separate the mass production or high volume sellers from the DS models that show off the true quirky design characteristics of Citroens. The Citroen C4 will undergo a facelift for 2014 but dont expect too much of a change.
Citroen C4 Updates
The headlights up front have been revised with two 3D chrome-finish modules on a gloss black background. LEDs then surround the headlights to accentuate the new design. The rear has a similar 3D effect to the lights as well as some new chrome finishes. The front also gets a new touch of chrome and theres a new set of 17-inch Miami allow rims. The C4 has also added two new colours to its palette Platinum Grey and Spirit Grey.
The interior doesnt change too much with the seats being offered in new upholstery choices of black and grey. There is however now a 7-inch touchscreen in the centre-dash that controls multiple functions such as: live navigation, all media streaming including USB devices, Bluetooth and phone connections and settings for the C4. Safety and intelligent features include keyless entry and start, hill start assist, lane departure warning and blind spot monitoring.
New Engines
The main update for the C4 comes in the driving department where the Citroen gets four new Euro 6 compliant engines made up of two petrol and two diesel engines. The petrol engines come in three-cylinder form with turbochargers for added shove. Figures for the two variants sit at 81 kW and 205 Nm and 96 kW and 230 Nm, fuel consumption for the pair is 4.7L/100km and 4.8L/100km respectively.
The diesels pack a 1.6-litre turbodiesel unit that offers 73 kW and 254 Nm or in the higher output version 88 kW and 300 Nm. Impressively Citroen says that the 88 kW diesel will sip just 3.6L/100km.
New Generation Hyundai i20 Coupe Unveiled
Hyundai has revealed a new generation i20 Coupe set to go on sale in 2015 as a unique first ever three-door B-segment car featuring a dynamic exterior and striking interior design.
New Generation i20 Coupe extends appeal to younger customers
Although the coupe shares its platform with the standard i20, it has its own unique silhouette that gives it a sportier and more muscled appearance. Distinctive features include a new C-pillar design, extra creases in the rear wheel arches, a sloping roofline that sits 25mm lower, and a sporty rear-mounted spoiler.
Additional enhancements to further differentiate the three-door coupe include fresh 17-inch alloy wheels and a Tangerine Orange exterior paint that can be matched with an orange interior.
Engine specs
The choice of Euro6 engines includes petrol and diesel power units from 62 kW to 73 kW. A new 1.4-litre Kappa petrol engine will be available from launch, with a new 1.0-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine joining the range later in 2015.
The New Generation Hyundai i20 Coupe is expected to go on sale in March or April next year.
A Volkswagen representative speaking to the Dutch Telegraph confirmed that the Polo R is not on the cards. The main reason for it not going into production seems to be that it would sit too closely to the Golf GTI and possibly suck sales from the indomitable hatchback.
Volkswagen Polo R hopefuls will have to live with the fact that VW did produce a Polo R WRC Street edition that was sold in limited numbers.
The range topping Polo GTI has had a change of engine from the pre-facelift derivative and features a 1.8-litre turbochaged petrol engine capable of 141 kW and 320 Nm. Thats a considerable step up from the pre-facelift model that coped well with 132 kW and 250 Nm. We should see the new Polo GTI on our streets early in 2015.
White Voted Most Popular Car Colour For 2014
According to a recent study released by PPG Industries, white was the most popular car colour choice in 2014.
White continues to dominate as popular car colour choice
The study was conducted on over a quarter of the vehicles sold in 2014 of which white was the most popular car colour, with 28% of all new cars sporting the shade. Coming in second was black with 18%, while silver and grey tied for third place with 13%.
In addition, PPG says silver’s popularity has decreased in the last two years by 7%. White continued to grow in popularity with 25% of vehicles sold in 2013 finished in white. Two years ago, white accounted for 22 percent of new vehicle sales.
In fourth place was what PPG calls ‘natural’ colours, which include gold, beige, yellow, orange and brown. All colours make up 10% of new car sales while nine percent of new cars sold in 2014 were red.
Car manufacturers across the world are continually seeking new ways to create a unique appearance for models and vehicle brands. As colour selection takes place two or three years in advance of a model year, it is important for auto makers to combine colour popularity with global consumer trends, said Jane E. Harrington, PPG manager, colour styling, automotive OEM (original equipment manufacturer) coatings.
Today, automotive manufacturers can choose from a broad array of colours as well as a wide assortment of variations of conservative hues such as white, silver, black and grey, and distinct effects such as micas, glass flakes, fine bright aluminium and hue-shifting pigments.
Regional trend highlights from the 2014 data
In North America, white remains most popular (23%), followed by black (18%), grey (16%) and silver (15%).
In South America, silver and white lead in popularity (32% each), followed by black (13%), grey (11%), red (8%) and blue (2%).
In Europe, white remains most popular (25%), followed by black (15%) and grey (14%), and natural shades such as golds, beiges, yellows, oranges and browns continue to grow in popularity (12%).
In Asia Pacific markets, white remains most popular (31%), followed by black (20%) and silver (12%).
Looking to 2015 models, Harrington said PPG believes drivers will continue to see an increase in natural tones such as coppers, oranges and browns.
New models also may be influenced by metal tones such as bronze, pewter and rose gold, which have had a significant influence across fashion, jewellery, furniture and industrial design in recent years.
