Following last weeks teaser, Nissan has officially unveiled the 2015 370Z Nismo featuring performance refinements, along with an expanded model selection.
Distinctive new exterior appearance
The revised exterior design of the Nismo includes a GTR-inspired front fascia with LED Hyper Daytime Running Lights, black headlight bezels and red stripe accents on the front lip spoiler. The car has also been equipped with redesigned side sills, a new unique Nismo rear spoiler and 19-inch lightweight forged aluminium wheels with a twin-five spoke design and charcoal grey machined finish.
Enhanced interior
Inside, the unique Nismo-styled interior is enhanced with redesigned black-and-red Recaro leather-appointed seats with Alcantara accents, an Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel and a red tachometer. New technology is available inside the car as well as a new Tech variant which includes a Bose audio system, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a HomeLink universal transceiver and a 7-inch touchscreen display with GPS navigation.
Performance upgrades
Power comes from a 3.7-litre DOHC V6 engine with Variable Valve Event and Lift Control (VVEL). It develops 261 kW of power and 374 Nm of torque. Two transmission choices are offered for the first time on the Z Nismo model. The close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission with standard SynchroRev Match, and a 7-speed automatic with Downshift Rev Matching (DRM), Adaptive Shift Control and manual shift mode with paddle shifters.
The 2015 Nissan 370Z Nismo also features a refined 4-wheel independent suspension, Nismo-branded strut tower brace for enhanced body rigidity and a pair of performance dampers to help minimize road-input vibrations and help contribute to the Nismo 370Z’s high levels of handling and performance feel
The 2015 Nissan 370Z Nismo will go on sale in the United States in July. South African availability is yet to be confirmed.
2014 Audi A3 Cabriolet South African Pricing Announced
Audi South Africa has revealed pricing details for the 2014 A3 Cabriolet available with systematic lightweight design, new engines and assistance systems.
Sporty and elegant features
The new A3 Cabriolet has a soft cloth top that is stretched over a lightweight kinematic mechanism made of magnesium-steel which complements the car’s design. It can be raised or lowered in less than 18 seconds at speeds of up to 50 km/h.
Standard equipment on the S models includes 16-inch 10-spoke design cast aluminium alloy wheels, MMI Radio with full colour, slide-out LCD screen, LED Interior lighting package, exterior aluminium package, leather covered multi-function steering wheel, four-spoke, driver information system, Bluetooth with voice control and audio streaming and knee airbag.
SE models will come standard with 17 inch 5-arm design cast aluminium alloy wheels, sports suspension, sports seats, front fog lights, Audi Drive Select with Efficiency programme, leather covered multifunction sports steering wheel, 3-spoke fully automated, dual zone air-conditioning, driver information system in colour, and an Audi Sound System.
Engine options
Audi is offering the A3 Cabriolet with two TSFI engines. The 1.4 TFSI delivers 92 kW and accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 10.2 seconds, with a fuel consumption of 5.3-litres/100 km and CO2 emissions of 124 g/km. The more powerful 1.8 TSFI unit produces 132 kW of power and completes the 0-100 km/h sprint in 7.8 seconds. Fuel consumption is rated at 5.8-litres/100 km.
Both engines are available in manual and S-tronic.
Completing the range in the fourth quarter of 2014 will be the Audi S3 Cabriolet, which will feature the same 2.0T FSI engine available in its S3 siblings. Further information on this model will be available closer to introduction.
2014 Audi A3 Cabriolet price in South Africa
Audi A3 Cabriolet 1.4T FSI S manual – R 419 500
Audi A3 Cabriolet 1.4T FSI S S tronic – R 436 500
Audi A3 Cabriolet 1.8T FSI SE manual – R 448 000
Audi A3 Cabriolet 1.8T FSI SE S tronic – R 465 000
The Audi A3 Cabriolet will be available with a standard 5-year/100 00km Audi Freeway Plan, available to extend to 7 years/200 000km.
Renault Clio RS 200 EDC (2014) Review
After first seeing the all-new Renault Clio RS 200 at the 2013 Johannesburg International Motor Show, I was eager to try out the next generation of RenaultSport madness.
The 2014 Renault Clio RS 200 is a completely different animal compared to its predecessors. The 2.0-litre normally-aspirated engine from the old car has been replaced. My last experience of this high-revving motor was in 2011, when I spent some quality time behind the wheel of the 2011 Renault Clio RS Gordini – a fun and enthusiastic machine. A normal person couldn’t make the most of its abilities on an every day basis and as a daily driver, it was poor. As a toy on a race track, it was untouchable.
New engine
Fast forward to 2014 and the fourth generation of Renault Clio has introduced turbocharging across the range. The base model boasts a 0.9-litre three cylinder, but the RenaultSport derivative required something with a lot more punch. The new engine is a 1.6-litre turbocharged four pot. With some tweaks from the RenaultSport division, it pushes out 147 kW and 240 Nm. The manual gearbox has disappeared too, and in its place is Renault’s new Efficient Dual Clutch (EDC) transmission.
Visual feast
This is the top-of-the-range Cup version (there’s a marginally cheaper Lux version) and it looks fantastic. The combination of Liquid yellow paint, 18-inch gloss black alloys, and a bodykit that screams racer results in the new Renault Clio RS 200 is one of the best looking pocket rockets around. As my colleague Ciro De Siena put it: the Clio RS 200 is an annoyingly good-looking car.
What’s it like to drive?
Looks don’t win races, so with the engine fired up I set off trying to see if this new version can match the heritage. The initial part of the test didn’t go so well, with both the engine soundtrack and performance being average. A quick flick through the owner’s manual provided the answer. For maximum attack push the RS Drive button, located in the middle console by the handbrake. The Clio RS 200, when in RS Drive (Sport) mode is a hooligan. Throttle responses were a lot sharper, there was much louder intake roar and gear changes were accompanied by some semi-rally car pops and bangs from the exhausts. There’s Race mode too, but I wasn’t brave enough to engage that.
Handling is very good and the car is able to claw its way around winding roads at speed. There’s no chirping from the tyres, unless you’re really pressing on, but I found the car felt incredibly planted to the tarmac and not once did it feel loose or uncompromised. If going around corners is your thing, you’ll like this car a lot! I don’t think I’ve ever been up Kloof Nek road that quickly before…
Launch control
The car has a fancy party trick too. Line up next to any other hot hatch for a quick traffic light grand prix and you can take advantage of the car’s built-in launch control. Pull both gearshift paddles towards you, ‘Launch Control Engaged’ appears on the instrument cluster, then mash your foot on the accelerator. The car builds the revs to around the 2 500 rpm mark, you release the brake when ready and off you go.
Words can’t describe the feeling of how brisk or loud the car is launched. It’s very obnoxious and entertaining to get the car off the line in this manner. Renault says each Clio RS 200 has 1 500 launches in its life, before the car’s computer locks the function to preserve clutch and gearbox, so make them count…
Efficient Dual Clutch (EDC)
The question everyone has asked me is with regard to the gearbox. For a first attempt, this EDC isn’t bad. It’s not perfect and certainly not as good as Volkswagen’s DSG products. The gearbox could be a little more responsive, and the shift speed could be improved. The downshifts aren’t that great either and I found myself a little frustrated.
I solved this problem by driving in full automatic mode, with the occasional manual override. Don’t be disheartened by the gearbox, it’s not awful and I’m confident Renault is hard at work with an improved transmission or even a manual option.
RS Mode and features
Specification in the new Renault Clio RS 200 is fantastic. No expense has been spared and you’re getting some seriously fancy toys fitted as standard. The infotainment features TomTom HD navigation complete with live traffic updates and fixed speed cameras warnings. There’s also the RS monitor which enthusiasts will love. The system will download your performance figures to a USB (in a folder called High Scores!) , you can upload race tracks, measure your G-forces, save lap times and even see data like turbo boost pressure and clutch temperature.
Leather bucket seats with heaters, USB, cruise control with speed limiter, daytime-running lights, three driving modes, climate control, Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity and there’s some really funky red seat belts are all fitted to the Renault Clio RS 200 Cup as standard. Unlike the old car, this one is a four-door and the rear seats are comfortable and spacious enough for adults.
Summary and conclusion
I can see what Renault wanted to do here and that’s create a car which can be raced, yet be driven to work on a Monday morning without major compromises. The new Renault Clio RS 200 is a thoroughly entertaining car, both in terms of looks and driving experience. Few cars are as this hands on or this noisy and despite the imperfect gearbox, the car will put a smile on your face.
Renault Clio RS 200 EDC Price in South Africa
The Renault Clio RS 200 EDC Cup costs R314 900. You can lose the RS monitor, the 18-inch wheels and climate control and get the Lux for R294 900 if you think the Cup is just too much. Pricing includes a 5 Year / 150 000 km mechanical warranty, 6 Year anti-corrosion warranty and the service intervals are every 10 000 km.
*We pitted the new Renault Clio RS 200 EDC against its fellow Frenchman, the Peugeot 208 GTI. Look out for that video coming soon*
Renault Clio RS 200 EDC (2014) Quick Specs
Engine
1.6-litre four cylinder turbo petrol
Power
147 kW
Torque
240 Nm
Transmission
Six-speed twin clutch automatic
Wheels
18-inch alloys
0-100km/h
6.7 seconds (claimed)
Fuel economy
6.3 l/100km (claimed)
We like: . One of the best looking little cars
. Thoroughly entertaining engine and gearbox sounds
. Has every gadget you’ll ever need
. Five door practicality
. Fun to drive
We dislike:
. No spare wheel
. Gearbox isn’t as slick as hoped
Jaguar has announced plans to build six reproductions of the original race-bred Lightweight E-type to complete the production run, as only 12 of the scheduled 18 were ever finished. Jaguar’s Lightweight E-type project started back in 1963, with the last car assembled in 1964.
The new cars will be constructed by Jaguar’s finest craftsmen, and each of the 6 vehicles will be hand built using an all-aluminium body and will follow exact specifications of their original 1960s forebears – including the 3.8-litre straight-six engine. The Lightweight version was 114 kg lighter as a result of using aluminium for the engine block and body panels, as well as stripping the car of the interior trimmings and exterior chrome pieces including the bumper and the hand-operated windows. The first new Lightweight E-type will make its public debut later in the year. Further information will be released at that point.
Special Nissan Nismo 370Z Teased
Nissan is set to reveal a new special Nismo 370Z model at the ZDayZ festival.
The car is said to likely be an updated version of the 2014 Nissan Nismo 370Z. The company has remained mum on specific details about the model.
They have however released the teaser image above which shows the model might feature an aggressive front bumper with a larger air intake. Its also likely to be fitted with new daytime running lights and NISMO badging.
Nismo stands for Nissan Motorsport and every Nissan product which has the branding has been tweaked to be faster and more sporty. We can think of the Nismo Juke which was shown off at the 2013 Johannesburg International Motor Show as well as the Nismo 370Z concept. Both cars tickled our fancy and we’re quite eager to see what will be unveiled.
More details to follow soon.
Citroen DS4 VTi120 (2014) Review
In an effort to counter ever-increasing car prices, Citroen launched a base model version of its stylish DS4. We got behind the wheel of the Citroen DS4 VTi120 to see if the entry-level model can still offer the same levels of flair and funkiness as its higher-specced siblings.
Wow factor looks
Visually, the Citroen DS4 VTi120 is outstanding. With a magnificent Babylon Red pearlescent colour scheme, the DS4 is a striking car and many onlookers gaped at this example of outrageous French styling. It’s a beautifully proportioned car too, and should be a benchmark for hatchback design. Few cars make other traffic look positively bland in comparison.
Cabin of the Citroen DS4 VTi120
The funky design theme carries on when you open the door and climb in. There’s a reason the Citroen DS4 VTi120 has won numerous awards for both exterior and interior. If there was a word to describe the cabin, it’s ‘quirky’. That’s not to say it’s flawed, as ergonomically it’s sound as everything falls to hand.
There may not be leather, but the fabric seats offer plenty of comfort. The dials look like they’re from the movie Tron and you can even change the colour scheme from white to varying shades of blue. If individualism is your thing, you’re going to adore this car.
Features
Despite this being the entry-level model, the Citroen DS4 VTi120 comes with a reasonable amount of specification. The car comes standard with daytime-running lights, rear parking sensors, cornering headlamps, automatic windscreen wipers, panoramic windscreen, an Arctic-strength air conditioner, USB/Bluetooth compatible audio system as well as cruise control.
Being a French car, safety is not skimped on either. The Citroen DS4 VTi120 comes standard with ABS with EBD, Emergency Brake Assist, Intelligent Traction Control, Hill-Start assist as well as six airbags. Some attractive 16-inch Darwin alloy wheels round off the package.
Engine and economy
The higher-specced DS4 models come with the lovely 1.6-litre petrol turbo engines as well as the efficient HDi diesels. The base-model has to do with a naturally-aspirated 1.6-litre four-pot offering 88 kW and 160 Nm. It doesn’t have the get up and go of the turbo models, but there’s just enough power to offer a mildly entertaining drive.
The massive plus from the smaller engine is the gains in fuel economy. Let’s be honest, the Citroen DS4 VTi120 is not a small vehicle, nor is it a featherweight. Despite the 1.2 ton licencing mass, the DS4 consumed just 7.5 l/100km and this was in mostly urban traffic scenarios. Pleasantly surprised is an understatement…
The drive
It’s a pleasant drive too, and the five-speed gearbox shifts with a satisfying action. The road holding is firm and stable, despite the best of the Cape winter winds. The ride is a touch on the sporty side, but imperfections in the road are mostly soaked up by the high-profile rubber of the 16-inch alloy wheels. The cabin is spacious with the only gripe being the inability to open the rear windows. Seeing as I’m a male without children or Labradors, I don’t see this as a major problem.
Summary and conclusion
If you’re after a car which is spacious, comfortable and vastly different from anything out there, then the Citroen DS4 VTi120 is well worth considering. It may be too loud and ostentatious for some, but I think creative types will be smitten. Looks aside, as far as a budget offering goes, the Citroen DS4 VTi120 offers terrific value for money at R284 900.
Citroen DS4 VTi120 Price in South Africa
The Citroen DS4 VTi120 retails for R284 900 and this includes a 3-yr/100 000 km full manufacturer warranty, 5-yr/100 000km Service plan as well as 3-yr 24-hour roadside assistance. If you’re not happy with those, you can further extend the warranty and service plan at extra cost.
Citroen DS4 VTi120 Design (2014) Quick Specs
Engine
1.6-litre four cylinder petrol
Power
88 kW
Torque
160 Nm
Transmission
Five-speed manual
Wheels
16-inch alloys
0-100km/h
10.8 seconds (claimed)
Fuel economy
6.2 l/100km (claimed)
We like: . Outrageous styling
. Generous specification for an entry-level model
. All-round interesting car
We dislike: . May be too vibrant for some
. Rear windows don’t go down
Following the Mercedes-Benz AMG Vision Gran Turismo concept unveiled last year, BMW has revealed its Vision Gran Turismo created exclusively for the PlayStation Gran Turismo 6 video game.
Developed by the BMW Group Design team, the car features styling elements taken from the companys recent models such as the BMW M4 Coupe. It comes with crisp proportions and a dynamic silhouette.
Additional modifications include reshaped front and rear spoilers that provide an optimal level of downforce, while all air conduction elements reduce drag and lower the vehicles total weight through the use of carbon fibre.
The Vision Gran Turismo is fitted with a powerful virtual 3.0-litre twin turbo inline six-cylinder engine developed by the M division delivering 404 kW between 6 200 and 7 300 rpm. Peak torque is rated at 680 Nm and is available from 1 800 rpm. Output is transferred to the rear axle through a six-speed sequential gearbox featuring steering wheel-mounted paddles.
The concept also boasts carbon fibre air conduction elements which BMW say not only reduce drag but also help lower the car’s weight to only 1 180 kg and also has a perfect 50:50 axle load.
The BMW Vision Gran Turismo will be added to Gran Turismo 6 through online updates.
You know the world has changed when virtual cars for console games receive coverage! If only BMW would build the real thing too…
New Renault Sandero Stepway Launched In SA Specs and Prices
Renault SA has taken the wraps off an all-new replacement model of the popular Sandero Stepway which has sold over 3 000 units since its launch in 2012. We were mighty impressed with the standard 2014 Renault Sandero and the Stepway is offering even more practicality and value for money.
Engine specifications
Under the hood lies a powerful 66 kW Turbo petrol engine (2 kW more than the previous version) with 135 Nm of torque. Fuel consumption is rated at 5.4-litres/100 km with combined CO2 emissions of 124 g/km. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h takes 11.1 seconds with a top speed 175 km/h.
Dynamic design
Features include a raised body with 193 mm of ground clearance, an upsized diamond-shaped badge, a new black front grille, 16-inch wheels, front and rear silver skid plates, fog lamps with chrome surroundings, wheel arch trims and roof rails with silver treatment. The car comes in exclusive Azurite Blue and four other colours.
The cabin is equipped with a sophisticated instrument cluster with chrome detailing around the dials and boasts an array of tech-smart instrumentation. Theres also a leather covered steering wheel and gear lever knob, as well as fabric covered seats with a Stepway signature.
The list of standard tech-smart features includes Bluetooth connectivity, multi-function fingertip radio controls, ECO mode, cruise control plus speed limiter, and rear parking sensors.
Notable safety features include Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) coupled with Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), Hill Start Assist (HSA) and front seat belts with load limiters and ISOFIX fasteners for child and baby seats, as well as front side airbags and 3-point safety belts for the rear passengers.
New Renault Sandero Stepway price in South Africa
New Sandero Stepway Turbo 66 kW 5-door R159 900
The New Renault Sandero Stepway derivative comes standard with a five-year/150 000km warranty plus a two-year/30 000km service plan (service intervals: 15 000 km).
New Renault Sandero Stepway gallery
Audi A3 Clubsport Quattro Concept Unveiled
Audi has unveiled the A3 Clubsport quattro concept based on the S3 Sedan and will be shown in public at the 2014 Worthersee Meeting.
Engine specifications
The concept boasts a five-cylinder 2.5-litre TFSI motor with a tuned power output of 386 kW and an increased torque figure of 600 Nm.
The engine is mated to a seven speed S tronic gearbox equipped with an advanced launch control system that helps maximise power going through the wheels as well as minimise tyre slip.
This additional power and performance has been achieved through the installation of a larger turbocharger with up to 1.5 bar of boost as well as a modified intercooler. Additionally, the car receives a new performance air intake and exhaust system which gives it a more aggressive growl than the S3 Sedan.
With a total weight of 1527 kg, the Audi A3 Clubsport quattro concept accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 3.6 seconds and reaches a top speed of 310 km/h.
The concept also gets a sportier suspension setup that drops the ride height by 10mm and rides on 9.5 J x 21 wheels shod with size 275/25 R21 tyres and has carbon fibre ceramic disc brakes.
Distinctive features
The concepts comes finished a Magnetic Blue exterior paint scheme. Theres also a redesigned front grille, new front splitter, redesigned air intakes, and Audi’s Matrix LED headlights.
Inside, the car adopts bucket seats equipped with four-point seatbelts while the luggage area offers enough room for two racing helmets. The seat covers feature light grey piping and contrast stitching in Seeping Blue. The headlining and the pillars are covered in black Alcantara, and the decorative inlays are brushed aluminium.
Audi A3 Clubsport Quattro Concept gallery
Upgraded 2014 Jeep Cherokee Arrives In SA – Specs and Prices
Jeep has applied some updates to its Cherokee SUV which now sports new exterior and interior features, as well as significant industry firsts in the SUV segment including a nine-speed automatic transmission and rear-axle disconnect.
Engine range
The new Jeep Cherokee is powered by two petrol engine options: the 3.2-litre V6 Pentastar and the 2.4-litre Tigershark MultiAir L4. Both petrol engines are paired to the new nine-speed automatic gearbox.
The V6 Pentastar produces 200 kW at 6 500 r/min with 315 Nm of torque at 4 300 r/min and boasts towing capacity of 2 200 kg. Fuel consumption is rated at 10l/100 km with combined CO2 emissions of 232 g/km.
The Tigershark MultiAir L4 produces 130 kW at 6 400 r/min and 229 Nm of torque at 3 900 r/min. Fuel economy for the 2.4l Tigershark engine with the 9-speed automatic transmission is 8.3 l/100 km in the combined cycle.
The new Jeep mid-size SUV is additionally offered in a choice of two innovative four-wheel drive systems: Jeep Active Drive I and Jeep Active Drive Lock.
The Jeep Active Drive I features a fully automatic, single power transfer unit (PTU) and delivers seamless operation in and out of four-wheel drive at any speed, while the Jeep Active Drive Lock features a locking rear differential for superior low-speed power delivery.
2014 Jeep Cherokee price in South Africa
The new Jeep Cherokee will be available at beginning of June 2014 with the pricing as follows:
2014 Jeep Cherokee 2.4l Longitude FWD R479 990
2014 Jeep Cherokee 3.2l Limited FWD R505 990
2014 Jeep Cherokee 3.2l Limited AWD R563 990
2014 Jeep Cherokee 3.2l Trailhawk 4WD R607 990
Prices include a standard 6 year/100 000 km maintenance plan.
For more details on the design and safety features of the updated 2014 Cherokee click here.
