Porsche is adding four GTS models to its 911 lineup, including the second generation 2015 911 GTS which will be available as a coupe or convertible with rear- or all-wheel drive.
More power and driving dynamics
The GTS is equipped with a 3.8-litre six-cylinder boxer engine rated at 316 kW. The model will additionally be fitted with a PDK dual-clutch transmission that will help the coupe accelerate from standstill to 100 km/h in 4.0 seconds while the convertible will complete the same task in 4.2 seconds. Top speed for all four GTS variants sits at over 300 km/h, the fastest at 306 km/h is the Coupe with a manual transmission and rear-wheel drive.
Additional technical details that help generate even more driving dynamics include the Sport Chrono package and the PASM active damper system which lowers the car’s ride height by ten millimetres.
2015 911 GTS design details
Designed to close the performance gap between the Carrera S and the track-focussed 911 GT3, the 2015 911 GTS features bi-xenon headlights with the Porsche Dynamic Light System as well as an exclusive Alcantara interior with leather trimmed sports seats.
The GTS is further differentiated from other Carrera models by the extra-wide body borrowed from the 911 Carrera 4, as well as 20-inch wheels with centre wheel locks which are painted in an exclusive matte black, while black accents are found on the front air intakes, rear diffuser and rear decklid.
Porsche has announced the 2015 911 GTS will hit the German market from next month. South African availability is yet to be confirmed.
The High Performance Drive-E Powertrain Concept is based on a set of technologies which are not usually found in a four-cylinder engine.
The new engine features two parallel turbos which are fed by an electrically-operated turbo compressor, and instead of pushing compressed air into the cylinders, the compressor is used to spool up two parallel turbochargers. Fuel is fed by a dual fuel pump working at 250 bar pressure, and Volvo adds that this setup enables a very dynamic drivability without any turbo lag, compared to a mono-turbo.
We have already seen the companys twin-charged two-litre engine (supercharged and turbocharged) in production, while the new T6 Drive-E that replaced the inline-six can be seen in the S60, V60 and XC60, producing over 224 kW, while also on the brand new XC90, the T6 powerplant is rated at 239 kW. However this new triple-charged two-litre four-cylinder petrol engine prototype is set to be a more powerful variant that produces ‘no less than 335 kW.’
‘When we launched the Drive-E powertrain family, our aim was to deliver the most advanced 4-cylinder engines in the industry based on emissions and fuel consumption relative to performance and drivability,’ says Dr. Peter Mertens, Senior Vice President for Research and Development at Volvo Car Group.
‘We knew that 239 kW in our petrol configuration was just a starting point. The 335 kW High Performance Drive-E Powertrain Concept, demonstrates this ambition and the versatility of the Drive-E Powertrains.’
At present, the engine is still in the concept phase but Volvo is working closely with AVL and Denso, as well as its performance partner Polestar to further develop the technology.
Volvo shows 335 kW four-cylinder 2.0-liter engine
New 2014 Nissan X-Trail Driven
Hot off the back of the Nissan Qashqai launch, Nissan South Africa has launched the new X-Trail. The X-Trail sits above Juke and Qashqai and appeals to the family that requires a bit more space in their SUV with aspirations of off-road adventure holidays. Previously the X-Trail sold on its rugged looks and comfortable ride together with the practicality of a mid-to-large size SUV. Now though, the X-Trail has softened up its appearance but claims to be just as capable off-road with more features and even more practical.
Space is up
The overall length and width of the new X-Trail remains very similar to the outgoing model but the major change is the wheelbase. The new model has a 75 mm longer wheelbase and Nissan says that this makes more room inside the cabin for people. It does, rear legroom is ample and the seats have the ability to slide forward and recline for added comfort and adaptability.
The rear seats can be folded flat as well upping load space considerably. The front passenger seat can also be folded rearwards, that should please canoe enthusiasts or long-boarders who dont like to carry their toys on the roof. The new X-Trail has the option of seven seats but that obviously reduces boot loading space when they are in use. Boot space in the seven-seater is 135-litres whilst the standard five-seater has 550-litres.
Engines
Nissan has introduced the X-Trail with two petrol engines and one diesel. The petrols are both naturally aspirated and come in 2-litre – 106 kW, 200 Nm, two-wheel drive guise or 2.5-litre – 126 kW, 233 Nm, all-wheel drive. The 2-litre feels a little sluggish up at altitude where the launch took place, but Nissan seems assured that new turbocharged variants will become available in the near future.
The 2.5-litre was only available to drive for a short time on the off-road course that had been set up for us to test the X-Trails skills on. Theres a rotary dial to swap the all-wheel drive X-Trail from two-wheel drive to all-wheels drive and a quick press of the VDC (traction control) button and youre ready to crest mounds, descend ravines with hill-descent control and enjoy life in the great outdoors. The X-Trail proved capable over the course and the electronics did a good job of sending power to the correct wheels when traction was lost.
The pick of the engine range though is the 1.6-litre turbodiesel. With 96 kW it might not sound like much, but its teamed with 320 Nm of torque and that gives the X-Trail sufficient shove that it needs to be capable on road.
Ride and Drive
The X-Trail has maintained its comfortable ride and feels smooth on the road. Its one of the great features of a SUV that isnt trying to be sporty, you get a comfortable ride and a vehicle thats not averse to the odd bump or pothole in the road. Steering is acceptable, its well-weighted and complete with multi-function controls for the radio and cruise control.
In standard format the interior looks a little plain with a basic radio setup, air-conditioner, USB and Bluetooth compatibility. What you really want is the optional Techno Pack that pumps up the kit you get. The pack includes a seven-inch touchscreen, Navigation, around view camera, Smartphone integration, blind-spot monitoring and moving object detection.
Nissan X-Trail Pricing
The Nissan X-Trail comes in at a competitive entry price that competes with the likes of the Ford Kugaand Chev Captiva if you want seven seats. Prices start at R327 700 for the 2-litre petrol and go up to R473 600 for a fully-loaded 1.6-turbodiesel. See the full pricing here. The Nissan X-Trail appears to be a competent, comfortable and spacious option to the family that wants the option to go off the beaten track.
New Infiniti QX70S Design Shown Off In Paris
The covers have been lifted off the new Infiniti QX70S Design which was shown off at the Paris Motor Show and is said to go on sale in some European markets this month.
Sporty and elegant QX70S Design features
Labelled as the “antidote to SUV boxiness and blandness,” the model is according to Infiniti, designed to add a definite bad-boy spirit to the elegant sportiness of the QX70, and build on its provocative, design-led ethos.
Adding a more aggressive look to the QX70S Design is the dark chrome trim on the grille, foglight surrounds, side air scoops, side sills and rear number plate surround. The crossover also features black mirror caps, tinted headlights and 21-inch alloy six-spoke alloy wheels with a black finish.
The black theme continues inside where you will find black lacquer trim on the centre console and purple contrast stitching on the black leather seats, steering wheel, armrest and door trims.
Specifications of the model remain a secret for now, but the company mentioned the model will be offered with powerful V6 engines in either petrol or diesel forms, as well as come with an advanced chassis, balanced handling, and precise steering and gear control.
The Infiniti QX70S Design range is said to go on sale in selected countries in West Europe immediately following its premiere at the Paris Motor Show.
South African availability is yet to be confirmed, however for now, customers can purchase the Infiniti QX70S Black Edition range which is available from R777 630.
*Pictures from AutoBlog
New Nissan X-Trail Finally Introduced In South Africa Specs and Prices
Nissan has disclosed pricing for the all-new Nissan X-Trail which was revealed about a year ago at the Frankfurt Motor Show and arrives in SA in an eight-model range, including two-and four-wheel drivetrains, five or seven seats, petrol and diesel engine options as well as manual or Xtronic CVT transmissions.
Our Journalist, Ashley Oldfield is currently on the local launch, look out for his driving impression this week.
For more on the design and equipment of the X-Trail click here.
Engines and drivetrain
Headlining the engine line-up will be four new X-TRAIL derivatives – in XE, SE and LE specification. They will be available in an all-new 1.6-litre direct-injection turbocharged diesel engine delivering 96 kW at 4 000 rpm and 320 Nm of torque at 1750 rpm.
Mated to a six-speed manual gearbox and with the choice of two- or four-wheel drive, the engine returns a combined fuel consumption of 5.3-litres/100 km with CO2 emissions of 134 g/km.
The petrol variants will comprise of two 2.5 SE derivatives, available exclusively with Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), four-wheel drive and either five or seven seats. Power will come from a normally-aspirated multi-point injection petrol engine producing 126 kW at 6000 rpm and 233 Nm of torque peaking at 4000 rpm.
The range-topping 2.0-litre direct injection normally aspirated petrol engine produces 106 kW at 6000 rpm and 200 Nm torque at 4400 rpm. All 2.0-litre derivatives will be available with either five or seven seats, and exclusively with a six-speed manual gearbox.
Fuel economy is rated at 8.3-litres/100 km, with CO2 emissions of 197 g/km.
New Nissan X-Trail price in South Africa
Nissan X-Trail 2.0 XE 6MT R 327 700
Nissan X-Trail 2.0 XE 6MT (7 seats) R 334 100
Nissan X-Trail 2.5 SE Xtronic 4WD R 364 200
Nissan X-Trail 2.5 SE Xtronic 4WD (7-seat) R 370 600
Nissan X-Trail 1.6dCi XE 6MT R 351 000
Nissan X-Trail 1.6dCi XE 6MT (7-seat) R 357 400
Nissan X-Trail 1.6dCi SE 6MT 4WD R 388 300
Nissan X-Trail 1.6dCi LE 6MT 4WD R 473 600
The all new Nissan X-TRAIL models come standard with Nissan’s new class-leading 6-year/150 000 km warranty and a 5-year/90 000 km service plan which includes roadside assistance as standard.
New Entry Level GWM H5 City Offered In SA Specs and Prices
GWM has added a new entry level H5 City vehicle with all the quirks of an SUV but at an affordable compact crossover rate.
Uncompromised design
The rugged looking H5 City features 17-inch alloy wheels, comprehensive colour coding, integrated indicators in the side mirrors and a tailgate spoiler. The model also offers a near-200 mm ground clearance.
Inside you will find piano-black plastic trim, silver accents throughout the cabin, a new centre console with integrated twin drink holders, as well as modernised controls for the audio and climate systems.
The model additionally boasts a large boot and a full-size spare-wheel (fitted under the vehicle) and a 2700 mm wheelbase which contributes to the spacious rear legroom.
Standard equipment includes climate control, radio/CD with USB/aux support, front and rear fog lamps, rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlights, and dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, Isofix rear child seat anchorages, electric windows all-round, electrically adjustable side mirrors, rake-adjustable steering wheel and remote central locking.
Engine details
Under the hood of the H5 City is a 2.4-litre four-cylinder 4G69 petrol engine that delivers 100 kW at 5 200 rpm and 200 Nm of torque at 4 000 rpm. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a five-speed manual transmission, while fuel consumption is rated at 10.3-litres/100 km.
GWM H5 City price in South Africa
GWM H5 City R244 900
The H5 City will be available with a comprehensive five-year/100 000 km warranty and comes standard with two-year/24-hour AA roadside assistance. A five-year/60 000 km service plan is available at any of GWM’s dealerships.
Volkswagen Golf Alltrack Displayed In Paris
The Volkswagen Golf Alltrack has had its world premiere at the Paris Motor Show featuring a number of technical and visual innovations, including a 4MOTION all-wheel drive system.
Four powerful engines
Power comes in form of a TSI petrol engine and three diesel engines, which are all powerful turbocharged direct injection units.
The 1.8-litre TSI petrol unit is rated at 134 kW with 280 Nm of torque. The diesel units comprise of a 1.6 TDI with 82 kW and 250 Nm, a 2.0 TDI with 119 kW and 340 Nm of torque as well as a 2.0 TDI with 137 kW and 380 Nm of torque. Power for the most powerful diesel and petrol engines is transferred to the all-wheel drive system via a standard six-speed dual clutch gearbox (DSG).
4MOTION all-wheel drive system
According to Volkswagen, the model brings the best from the SUV and estate segments that also combines the Variants practicality with the added capabilities of the 4MOTION all-wheel drive system with Haldex coupling.
The Alltrack also benefits from an electronic differential lock built into the ESC electronic stability control system and acts as a differential lock at both axles. Theres also an XDS system optimizing steering feedback by braking the wheel inside the turn when a dynamic driving stance is adopted.
Volkswagen Golf Alltrack design features
The new Golf Alltrack is based on the Golf variant, but adds a more rugged appearance with a +20mm increase in ride height. It additionally features black plastic body cladding together with new beefier 17-inch Valley alloy wheels and aluminium protection plates on the front and back.
The interior styling of the car is defined by details such as a leather trimmed steering wheel and gear shift lever, custom seat covers with the “Alltrack” badge on the backs of the front seats, accents in “Dark Magnesium” (centre console) and “Tracks” (dashboard and interior door trim) as well as ambient lights in the door trim.
Other standard features include automatic climate and cruise control, LED reading lights for the front and rear seats, lights in the front footwell areas, “Composition Touch” infotainment system, and a Driver Alert system.
Volkswagen has announced the Golf Alltrack will go on sale across Europe next summer. Whether or not the Volkswagen Golf Alltrack will be sold in South Africa is yet to be confirmed.
Subaru WRX STI (2014) Review
It’s the fastest and most powerful Subaru currently on sale in South Africa, so we just had to try out the 2015 Subaru WRX STI.
Subaru’s STI is the flagship performance product from the brand and follows a simple recipe. Simply, put a powerful turbocharged engine into a head-turning racer body and make it handle like it can defy the laws of physics. This recipe has been successful for decades and the Subaru STI is an icon in the petrolhead world.
Engine and economy
The 2015 Subaru WRX has the same 2.5-litre flat-four turbocharged unit found in the previous generation. Power and torque remain the identical at 221 kW and 407 Nm, with power reaching all four wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox. This is a particularly good gearbox especially when you’re pressing on. Subaru claims about 10L/100km when it comes to fuel economy, but in reality you’ll see around 13.5L/100km. Should this be of concern? Absolutely not. No-one buys an STI with fuel economy being a deciding factor…
What’s new?
So if the engine is the same as the old model, then what exactly is new? The chassis is new and is stiffer. There’s an all-new suspension too which makes extensive use of clever differentials and electronics to ensure handling is top notch. The handling technology cleverly balances power between the front and rear axles, as well as from the left side and right side.
When you work with the Active Torque Vectoring (ATV), the stability control and the Driver Controlled Centre Differential (DCCD), the results are quite special. The ATV reduces understeer, while the DCCD allows the driver to decide how much power he/she wants sent to the back wheels. On the narrow and winding roads to Cape Point, the Subaru WRX STI proved to be dramatically fast with the steering being ultra responsive. Track fanatics will love how it drives and for a point-and-squirt machine, the STI does exceptionally well.
Interior
The Subaru STI’s cabin is still a dull and minimalist affair, with only the bare basics being present. You can opt for a locally-developed touchscreen SatNav / infotainment system, which isn’t too bad. There’s a digital boost gauge thrown into the centre dashboard display. This display doubles up as a trip computer. There’s a leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel, cruise control, electric sunroof, keyless entry, start button, auto lights, auto wipers, LED headlamps, and an all leather interior. I was expecting more sporty seats, such as those offered by brands like Sparco or Recaro.
The drive
When you’re cruising around there’s the distinctive Subaru burble coming out the four exhausts, and if you listen carefully, there’s a subtle whistle and pop from the turbo’s wastegate. There are three throttle settings: Intelligent, Sport and Sport#. Intelligent dulls the power a bit and makes the car civilised. There’s still enough oomph for some thrills though, but if you want to up the ante, then switch the dial to Sport or Sport#. The accelerator pedal becomes very sensitive to inputs and the car starts charging about.
For driving thrills, the Subaru WRX STI offers large amounts of excitement. It’s one of those cars that needs a delicate touch to get the best out of it, but when you get it right, you can get performance out of it that rivals cars costing double the price. Off the line and in Sport# mode, the Subaru WRX STI is savage.
Summary
In closing, the Subaru WRX STI left me with two thoughts. Firstly, what a mind-blowingly agile vehicle this is. Few vehicles are this quick on a tight and winding road and it will take a brave driver to try find the limits of what this thing can do. The all-wheel drive will flatter the average driver and it’ll keep you safe on wet or gravel roads. As far as the Subaru STI lineage goes, this continues the legacy and I’d go as far as to say that this is one of the finest STIs yet.
Secondly, my gripes are with the interior and overall impression of the vehicle. For a 2014 performance car, it’s not quite good enough in all departments to get both thumbs up. Also this car is best suited to the driver who likes to attend track days and the suspension is too firm to be a daily driver. For a car nicknamed ‘the BMW M3 Eater’ back in the day, it also hasn’t evolved enough to match its rivals. The competition has moved on, and the 2014 Subaru STI doesn’t stand a chance against the 2014 BMW M3.
That interior still needs that premium feel and perhaps a gadget or two to woo the millennial generation. If you’re a Subaru fan, you’re going to love it. If its just out of your budget, there’s nothing wrong with opting for the standard Subaru WRX either, which offers 85% of the STI’s ability at a substantially cheaper price. For the rest of you, R600 000 can get you into an Audi S3 sedan, which offers premium features and day to day comfort more befitting of the price tag. Just don’t try take on an STI though as you’ll come off second best…
Second Opinion
The Subaru WRX STI is a cult car, even in the modern era when it’s bang for buck status is under scrutiny. Despite this people flock to inspect and admire it. I just wish Subaru would move the game forward a bit more. – Ashley Oldfield
Subaru WRX STI quick specs
Price
R599 000
Engine
2.5-litre flat-four turbocharged petrol
Power
221 kW
Torque
407 Nm
Transmission
Six-speed manual
Wheels
18-inch alloys
0-100km/h
4.9 seconds (claimed)
Fuel economy
10.4L/100 km (claimed)
We like:
. Blisteringly fast and agile on a tight and winding road
. Head-turning racer looks
. Huge boot and five doors make this practical
We dislike:
. Interior is poor for a car costing this much
. Competition has moved on
. Too hardcore to be a daily driver
The new BMW X4 has arrived in South Africa and we put this sports activity vehicle to the test.
So what exactly is the BMW X4? BMW claims this new model slots between the X3 and the excellent X5. Visually it resembles a shrunken X6 – which to most onlookers is not a bad thing. Despite my initial reservations about the coupe SUV looks, my Melbourne Red X4 looked very classy. The X4 isn’t well known at all, so expect a few double takes from onlookers.
Engine, Performance and Economy
That still doesn’t explain what it is though. What I can tell you is that it drives rather well. Power comes from the tried-and-tested 3.0-litre turbocharged six cylinder which pushes out 225 kW and 400 Nm. This engine does duty in the 335i M Performance edition and theM235i coupe we had not so long ago.
Interestingly, this X4 engine has an interesting party trick. Gently accelerate, then come off the throttle and there’s quite an obvious whistle from the turbocharger. I can’t recall any other BMW products having this. Put your foot down, and the distinctive six cylinder engine note satisfies aurally. Performance is brisk, with the 0-100kph time sitting around the 5.5 second mark. It’s not too shabby on fuel either for a big performance all-wheel drive SUV either, with the trip computer reading out 12.2L/100km. If you’re worried about fuel consumption, then simply put the car into Eco Pro mode.
Ride and Handling
It’s quick in a straight line and it handles well when you throw it into the corners too. I’d go as far to say as the ride is distinctly sporty and entertainingly fun to drive. The car does feel a little bouncy though and a quick glance through the options list shows you can get Electronic Damper Control, which should sort things out.
For those of you who’d normally dismiss a vehicle like this as a city slicker, the BMW X4 comes with xDrive and 204 mm of ground clearance, making it useful on gravel and rough surfaces.
Interior and specification
Unlike the BMW X6 which was lashed for being a four seater, the X4 has five usable seats. I can happily say I tried them out as I was the designated driver for four friends to the Franschhoek Uncorked Wine Festival. Rear headroom is a little right for taller folk, but the back three passengers managed and weren’t uncomfortable on the journey. The boot space is smaller than expected, and the BMW X4 comes standard with a power-operated bootlid. For an extra amount of cash, you can opt for the smart boot, which opens when you wiggle your foot under the rear bumper.
The interior is typically BMW, with the latest version of iDrive and a very neat infotainment screen which offers superb clarity. The2014 Range Rover Sport we had not so long ago has such an average display and it pales in comparison to the BMW X4 unit. The entire interior was clad in a white theme, with the seats having splashes of red. The headrests have an embossed X logo in them too – a nice touch.
The test car came equipped with a heads-up display, outstanding Harmon Kardon audio, all-round camera system which makes parking a breeze (watch the same system here), very attractive daytime running lights, Xenon headlamps, cruise control, auto headlights and rain-sensing wipers. It also came with the BMW M Sport package, which gives it sportier wheels and an aggressive body kit.
Summary and conclusion
The BMW X4 is the answer to a question no-one was asking. While many will dismiss this as BMW trying to cash in on a genre that doesn’t exist, it’s actually quite a good product. Logic should dictate getting an X3 which offers a little bit more space for less money, or going all out and trying to buy a BMW X5 – a superb product in all aspects. There’s just something about the BMW X4 though, I can’t put my finger on it, but I think it’ll prove popular. Personally, I’d go the sensible route and opt for one of the diesel-powered versions.
Second Opinion
The BMW X4 is an attempt at a stylish, mid-life SUV, much like Range Rover’s Evoque. It lacks the outright appeal of the Rangie, but takes top spot dynamically at the expense of ride comfort. – Ashley Oldfield
BMW X4 xDrive 35i quick specs
Price
R818 000
Engine
3.0-litre straight-six turbocharged petrol
Power
225 kW
Torque
400 Nm
Transmission
Six-speed manual
Wheels
18-inch alloys
0-100km/h
5.5 seconds (claimed)
Fuel economy
8.3L/100 km (claimed)
We like:
. Good looking and unique
. Useful ground clearance and all-wheel drive ability
. Great choice of engines
We dislike:
. Rear headroom is a little cramped
. Options list can push the price up considerably – spec carefully!
Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon Stealth Concept Shows Up In Paris
The covers have been lifted off the one-off Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon Stealth concept which was one of Jeeps highlights at the Paris Motor Show.
Highlights of the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon Stealth Concept
The Moparized Wrangler Stealth is the collaborative work of Jeep, Mopar and the Centro Stile and features a textured “Iron Peltrox Iron” exterior with a ventilated hood, extended fender flares, raised suspension kit, LED light bar, and 17-inch rims on 37-inch tyres. The concept also benefits from off-road bumpers, rock rails and a black grille with mesh inserts.
Not much has been revealed about the interior, but according to Jeep, the exclusive interior includes vintage-style leather seats and upholstery.
Power comes from a 2.8-litre turbodiesel engine that delivers 147 kW and 460 Nm of torque.
Theres no word on whether the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon Stealth Concept will make it to production as a limited-edition model.
