Rallycross-spec 2015 WRX STI Previewed in New York

Subaru has revealed its new contender for the Global Rally Cross (GRC) – the Rallycross-spec 2015 WRX STI which made its world premiere at the New York Auto Show this week.

The car is the result of a joint project between Subaru Rally Team USA, RedBull Global Rallycross and NBC and was created to promote 2014 RedBull GRC season that begins May 18.

The Rallycross-spec 2015 WRX STI comes with a custom wide body kit wide body kit, a carbon fibre rear wing, rally car-style roof scoop and mirrors, along with Method Race Wheels mounted on RedBull GRCs new Yokohama spec race tyres.

Subaru says that behind the wheel of the full-race version will be Bucky Lasek and Sverre Isachsen. The company also mentioned that a stage rally version is in the works and will be unveiled later this year with Travis Pastrana and David Higgins as pilots for the Subaru Rally Team USA in the Rally America Championship.

Renault Sandero (2014) Review

The second generation Renault Sandero has been on sale since the middle of March 2014 and after attending the launch in Johannesburg, we get our hands on one for a week-long evaluation.

As mentioned in my Renault Sandero launch article, I was impressed with the generous specification, safety features as well as interior space. For a small entry-level city car to offer this much, it’s quite an eye opener. However living with the car for a week-long period is a good chance for any faults to make themselves known and it’s an opportunity to see what the vehicle is really like.

Specification

Is there a vehicle which can match the Renault Sandero in terms of specification for under R150 000? I don’t think so, and your R141 500 puts you behind the wheel of a vehicle equipped with cruise control, speed limiter, radio with Mp3/USB/Bluetooth, satellite radio controls, electric windows all round, leather steering wheel and alloy wheels. It’s truly impressive and you wonder how Renault makes any profit from these cars.

It beats the competition in terms of safety features too. This is the only vehicle in its class to offer Electronic Stability Programme and Anti-Skid Regulation. There’s ABS with Electronic Brake Assist and Electronic Brake Distribution too. The Renault Sandero Dynamique also comes with front driver and passenger airbags, as well as side airbags for the driver and passenger.

Engine

The 0.9-litre three-cylinder engine in the Renault Clio 4 also does duty in the Sandero. On paper it looks promising with its 66 kW and 135 Nm, which then leads you to believe you’re getting thrifty consumption. In reality, even with Eco Mode and driving like someone who is double my age, I couldn’t get the fuel consumption to under 6l/100km in urban areas. On the open road I did see 5.5l/100km, but it’s nowhere near Renault’s claim of 5.2l/100km on the combined fuel consumption cycle. Perhaps it’d be worth entering a Sandero into the national Economy Run competition to see what it can really do?

Despite its average fuel consumption, the engine itself is pleasant enough. It emits a typical three-pot engine growl, which is quite nice and completely different from the mechanical dull thrum of a generic 1.4. It can be quite fun to drive too, and you can feel a little turbo surge as you accelerate. Its acceleration figures are not too dissimilar to its 1.4-litre rivals, so don’t be put off by the tiny displacement of the Renault Sandero.

Ride and handling

The Renault Sandero rides well, but don’t expect a sporty drive. This is a basic city car, designed for the commute and poor quality roads. It excels at soaking up the bumps and interestingly, it offers a ground clearance of 164 mm making it quite good when driving up steep driveways or over speed bumps.

Conclusion / Summary

You’ll struggle to find a car which personifies budget motoring more than the Renault Sandero. The amount of specification and cabin space is superb, and there are cars which cost almost double this which don’t offer as many features as standard. My only gripe is the fuel economy as it doesn’t quite live up to expectations. That said, the overwhelming value-for-money feeling definitely outweighs the engine’s lack of efficiency.

Renault Sandero price in South Africa

The Renault Sandero range starts from R133 900 with the Expression. Reviewed here is the Sandero Dynamique which offers more specification for R141 500. The vehicle comes with a five year / 150 000 km warranty. There’s a two-year/30 000 service plan, with service intervals every 15 000km.

Renault Sandero (2014) Quick Specs

Engine	0.9-litre three-cylinder turbo petrol
Power	66 kW @ 5 250 rpm
Torque	135 Nm @ 2 500 rpm
Transmission	5-speed manual gearbox
Wheels	15-inch
0-100km/h	11.1 seconds (claimed)
Fuel economy	5.2 l/100km (claimed)

We like:

. Best in class specification levels
. Fun engine
. Spacious cabin

We dislike:

. Not as efficient as promised.
. Renault brand has a reputation

Also consider:
Suzuki Swift 1.2
Ford Figo
Volkswagen Polo Vivo
Toyota Etios
Chevrolet Spark
Honda Brio

Renault Sandero gallery

Volkswagen Golf R 400 Concept Confirmed For Beijing

Volkswagen has announced plans to introduce a new Golf R 400 Concept at the Beijing Motor Show.

The Golf R 400 concept will apparently debut as a more powerful version of the Golf R hatchback which is currently available from R486 200.

The concept is powered by the same 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder engine found in the hatchback GTI and R, but delivers 74 kW more power and 70 Nm of torque. Thats up from 221 kW to 295 kW and 380 Nm to 450 Nm. With this setup, the company promises the concept will travel from 0-100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds, which is faster than the production models 5.0 seconds.

Volkswagen has also added to the concept, wider wheels, a wider track and a widened body. The concept also features revised front and rear bumpers, 19-inch wheels, and the teaser image suggests the model will also feature a green stripe through the headlights, while the grille will replace the chrome garnish found on the Golf R.

The cabin is said to feature race seats covered in quilted Alcantara while the regular rear bench will be replaced with a pair of individual seats.

More information and details on production will be made available once the Volkswagen Golf R 400 concept debuts in Beijing next week.

Mazda MX-5 25th Anniversary Edition Debuts in New York

Mazda has unveiled the MX-5 Miata 25th Anniversary Edition at the New York Auto Show.

Set to be sold as a 2015 model, the Mazda MX-5 25th Anniversary Edition is based on the existing retractable hard top model with six-speed manual or automatic transmission. It features Bilstein shock absorbers along with a Soul Red Metallic exterior paint complemented by the black roof, A-pillars and side mirrors.

Other highlights include dark headlight bezels, 17-inch gunmetal 10-spoke alloy wheels and Bridgestone Potenza RE05A 205/45R17-84W tyres.

The interior boasts off-white leather upholstery, red stitching and a satin chrome finish for dash accents and door handles.

Mazda says only 100 units will be sold.

2015 MINI Countryman Officially Unveiled

The 2015 MINI Countryman has officially been unveiled, sporting a number of updates to ensure the “continued success of the premium compact model.”

Selective design modifications

Key changes to the new Countryman include a revised grille, LED day time running lights and restyled 17-inch alloy wheels with reduced weight and optimised aerodynamic properties. The model also gains LED fog lights, piano black accents and underbody guards on all-wheel drive variants. Other changes include new customisation options and three new exterior colours: Jungle Green metallic, Midnight Grey metallic and Starlight Blue metallic.

The inside remains the same with just a few tweaks which include revised instrumentation, anthracite-coloured dials and chrome trim on the air vents and split-folding seats. There’s also a sports leather steering wheel with shift paddles for automatic transmission, multifunction steering wheel with cruise control, Harman Kardon hi-fi speaker system and the latest MINI Connected infotainment system.

Increased engine output

Engine options remain the same, however the Countryman S model comes with an upraded 1.6-litre turbo engine that now produces 140 kW and 240 Nm of torque. The extra power enables the model to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 7.5 seconds and hit a top speed of 218 km/h.

All models come standard with a Sport button that enables more direct steering, improved accelerator response and faster shift times for the automatic.

2015 MINI Countryman gallery

2015 Ford Mustang 50 Year Limited Edition Revealed

Ford is marking the 50th anniversary of the Mustang with a special limited edition version of the original pony car which will be available in either Wimbledon White or Kona Blue.

Powerful performance pack

Only 1 964 examples of the 50 Year Limited Edition will be built and all will be based on the all-new 2015 Mustang GT (which is coming to South Africa) equipped with the Performance Pack.

The 50 Year Limited Edition is designed to provide customers outstanding performance and a unique appearance with the only options being a choice of two exclusive colours and a six-speed manual or automatic transmission.

The Ford Mustang 50 Year Limited Edition is powered by the 5.0-litre naturally-aspirated V8 engine delivering more than 313 kW and 528 Nm of torque. The car is additionally equipped with a Torsen limited-slip differential.

Unique design features

The Limited Edition Mustang will be the only 2015 model with the large faux petrol cap badge on the rear fascia where 50 years has been added to the GT designation. It also has chrome bezels surrounding the base of each of the three tail lamp blades which was inspired by the original 1962 design proposal which came through on the production model that debuted in 1964.

The car also gets louvered rear quarter-windows, a unique grille with Mustang in a corral logo and 19-inch alloy wheels in Y-spoke design. On the inside, the Mustang has a leather-covered, cashmere-stitched steering wheel, plus a special 50 Year Limited Edition badge on the passenger side.

The cashmere stitching is also used on the instrument panel, shifter boot, and centre armrest and on the door. The seats have been wrapped around in a unique two-tone cashmere and black leather upholstery with the Mustang 50 Year logo on the seatbacks.

The 2015 Ford Mustang 50 Year Limited Edition debuts this week at the 2014 New York Auto Show and is scheduled to go on sale later in the year.

2015 Ford Mustang 50 Year Limited Edition gallery

All-New Subaru WRX Available In SA Soon (Video)

Subaru South Africa will launch the premium all-new WRX in two new derivatives towards the end of May 2014, previewing what is a new era of sports vehicle manufacture for the Subaru brand.

Manual or Sport Lineartronic CVT transmission options

“The new range brings with it improvements in every aspect, with heightened quality levels and higher refinement levels matching the increased driving performance and enhanced handling characteristics which the new WRX exhibits at all times. The Subaru WRX remains a powerful car with the practicality and comfort which has always enabled it to double as a daily drive and a focused performance vehicle,” said Ashley Lazarus, Subaru Southern Africa marketing manager.

Under the hood of the all-new Subaru WRX is a new 2.0-litre DOHC direct injection turbocharged Boxer petrol engine that delivers 197 kW at 5 600rpm and 350 Nm between 2 400rpm and 5 200rpm. This setup allows the WRX to complete the 0-100km/h sprint in 6.0 seconds in the six-speed manual and 6.3 seconds in the Lineartronic model, reaching a top speed of 240km/h.

Both transmissions transfer power and torque to Subarus Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system which also features Active Torque Vectoring (ATV) for crisper turn-in and improved cornering dynamics. Subaru says this Sport Lineartronic is based on its own CVT and has been tuned for quicker response and better driver engagement, and can be matched to “some of the worlds finest and quickest single- and dual-clutch transmissions”.

In automatic mode, six simulated gear ratios are served up with a focus on fuel efficiency and comfort. Switching to Sport or Sport Sharp modes reprograms the transmission with eight predetermined ratios, which maximise performance. Steering wheel-mounted shift paddles transfer allow the drive to take full manual mode.

New levels of refinement

The two models in the Subaru WRX range will be available in Premium guise, with the only option being satnav. Exterior highlights include the trademark bonnet scoop, dual-twin exhaust pipes, an electric sunroof, a rear diffuser and boot spoiler. There are also daytime running lights, automatic headlights with self-levelling LED elements, rain-sensing wipers, LED tail-lights, a sporty bodykit and 17-inch alloy wheels with 235/45 R17 94W Dunlop SP Sport Maxx RT performance tyres.

The inside of the WRX is adorned with full leather upholstery and soft-touch surfaces, all of which is complimented by a six-speaker multi-media system incorporating USB, Bluetooth and voice control. Also included are red stitching accents, electric power steering, keyless access and push-button starting, folding rear seats, a 4.3-inch colour multi-info display screen, a rear-view camera, cruise control, automatic climate control, and red ambient lighting.

Safety features includes ABS with EBD and BAS, Vehicle Dynamics Control, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control System with Limited Slip Differential, seven airbags, and IsoFix child-seat anchor points.

Pricing at this stage is unconfirmed, but you can pre-register for the car on Subaru’s website. If the all-new Subaru WRX is to succeed, we reckon the Japanese manufacturer will price it around the R450 000 mark which will really shake up the segment. To whet your appetite, check out the launch video.

All-New Subaru WRX video

Citroen DS 6WR To Be Introduced In China

Ready to make its public debut at the Beijing Auto Show, Citroen has released details and an official image of its DS 6WR crossover which is said to have been inspired by the Wild Rubis concept shown in Shanghai last year.

Refined sophisticated styling

Designed in Paris, the Citroen DS 6WR crossover measures 4.55 metres long, 1.86 metres wide and 1.61 metres tall with a wheelbase of 2.73 metres which equates it to being slightly shorter, narrower and taller than the Wild Rubis.

The front end however is inspired by the DS 5LS sedan with its body plastic cladding in the front bumper, wheel arches and side sills while the mirrors have a glossy black finish. Addition details include silver roof rails, a chrome bar running the entire length of the doors, xenon headlights, LED daytime running lights and 19-inch alloy wheels.

Powertrain options

Engine options include the 118 kW 1.6-litre e-THP and the more powerful 147 kW THP motor. Both engines work together with a six-speed automatic transmission.

Citroen also fitted the DS SUV with a Grip Control system providing “optimized traction” on all types of terrain without a four-wheel drive system and while limiting both fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

Production of the Citroen DS 6WR will take place in China at the Shenzhen site and the model is scheduled to go on sale towards the end of the year and will most likely make its way to other markets in 2015.

2015 Nissan Murano Crossover Revealed

Nissan has given an early preview to its all-new 2015 Nissan Murano Crossover which is scheduled to debut at the 2014 New York International Auto Show.

Engine capabilities

The 2015 Murano will be powered by a 3.5-litre DOHC V6 engine that produces 194 kW of power and 325 Nm of torque, while mated to an Xtronic transmission. All-wheel drive is available as an option.

Design features

The difference in looks from the previous models comes from the front end where the Murano has gained new LED boomerang lights along with Nissans corporate V-motion front fascia and the unique floating roof. The model is further fitted with 20-inch aluminium wheels. You’ll notice many similarities between this and the Nissan Resonance concept we saw not so long ago.

The breakthrough exterior design carries into the interior, which offers a refined lower-height instrument panel, wide centre console, wraparound wood trim and metallic accents, advanced NASA-inspired Zero Gravity front and outboard rear seating, and an oversized Power Panoramic Moonroof.

There’s also a push button ignition, a dual-zone automatic climate control system and an 8-inch multi-touch control and NissanConnectSM with Navigation and Mobile Apps. Options include premium leather upholstery, heated / cooled front seats and a Bose audio system.

Available safety and security systems include Moving Object Detection (MOD), Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Predictive Forward Collision Warning (PFCW) and Forward Emergency Braking. The new Cross Traffic Alert (CTA) system utilizes radar to detect a moving vehicle behind the Murano approaching from either side of the parking space.

The 2015 Nissan Murano will be offered in four grade levels when it goes on sale in late 2014: S, SV, SL and Platinum. Each will be available in front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.

2015 Nissan Murano gallery

Audi TTS Competition Now Available In SA

Audi South Africa has celebrated the production of 500 000 TT compact sports cars with a limited edition model called the Audi TTS Competition.

There’ll be just 25 of these special cars coming to South Africa and if you’re a fan of powerful, compact Audis, you’re in for a treat. The Audi TTS Competition comes with quattro all-wheel drive, S-tronic twin-clutch transmission as well as 200 kW of power. There’ll be just 500 global units, making it quite a collector’s item. The 25 earmarked for South Africa have already been snapped up, but I’m pretty sure some will turn up on pre-owned floors within a few months.

The Audi TTS Competition comes in special paint finishes like Imola Yellow or Nimbus Grey, and it receives the attractive rear wing similar to the potent Audi TT-RS. It has eye-catching 18-inch wheels too.

Audi TTS Competition engine

The engine has 200 kW and 350 Nm, meaning the Audi TTS Competition has the go to match the show. Thanks to the wonderful S-tronic gearbox, the coupe can sprint to 100km/h in around 5.5 seconds, while fuel economy is claimed to sit at 7.7l/100km. Given the sporty nature of the Audi TTS Competition, I doubt you’ll see that figure as you’ll want to be driving in a brisk fashion. Top speed is limited to 250km/h.

Features and equipment

Interestingly, the Audi TTS Competition has no options available, and all features are fitted as standard. You get MMI satnav, xenon headlights with daytime LEDs, park assist, Bluetooth connectivity, Bose audio system, electric seats with lumbar support, S sports suspension, quad exhaust pipes, special TTS instrument dials, lap timer and a stylish flat-bottom steering wheel.

Audi TTS Coupe competition price in South Africa

The Audi TTS Coupe competition retails for R 664 500. The 5-year/100 000km Audi Freeway Plan is included, and you’re able to extend to 7 years /200 000km.