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.
Audi TTS Coupe competition gallery
Land Rover Discovery Vision Concept Shows Up Early In New York
Land Rover has revealed its futuristic in-car technology Discovery Vision Concept SUV ahead of its debut at the New York Auto Show.
Pushing the boundaries through technology
As mentioned previously, the Land Rover Discovery Vision Concept is said to preview a dynamic new design language and an array of innovative versatility and capability features, while also showcasing pioneering technologies from Jaguar Land Rover’s advanced research division.
According to Gerry McGovern, Design Director and Chief Creative Officer, Land Rover, the Discovery Concept vehicle represents a Vision of our future family of leisure SUVs. Its modern, relevant and compelling design is a significant shift from Discovery as we know it, while well considered practicality, configurability and Land Rover’s capability seamlessly blend to create a highly desirable vehicle that connects on an emotional level.”
The styling of the concept is sportier and less rugged than its predecessors. It features shorter overhangs, wraparound lights and a patterned grille. There are also sleek horizontal tail lamps and vertical foglamps, and as at the front, the rear window features hidden wipers hidden under the rear spoiler. The split tailgate has been replaced by a single tailgate which when opened allows a platform to slide out from the load areas base within the rear bumper to create a social seat.
In addition, the concept features slim, aerodynamic wing mirrors that have embedded cameras, which augment the view of the driver through the windows, providing an extended field of vision while parking and reversing.
It is also painted in a Tribeca Grey finish and fitted with bespoke 23-inch split five-spoke Aero Viper alloy wheels with a bright silver turned finish.
The modern design language of the future Discovery family
Inside the advanced cabin you will find foldable bucket seats that can act as a row or independently, sliding forward and backward on rails. They can also fold flat to serve as a table surface, allowing configurations to accommodate between four and seven passengers.
The interior is further finished in two innovative types of washable and water- and oil-repellent Foglizzo premium leather that can be cleaned in seconds. It also features a number of premium materials and high-tech equipment including a big touchscreen display that can be controlled by steering wheel-mounted touchpads, wood veneer on the floors and instrument panel and bespoke accessories lined in Harris Tweed.
The array of innovative technological features include the transparent hood technology (which offers an unimpeded view of the ground immediately ahead), Laser Terrain Scanning (creates a map of the road ahead using foglamp-mounted lasers), Laser Referencing (projects images on the road like warning triangles by using lasers), as well as a next-generation Terrain Response system.
The Land Rover Discovery Vision Concept will be officially introduced tomorrow at the New York Auto Show.
Land Rover Discovery Vision Concept gallery
We Attend Opel Driving Experience (Video)
Road safety is of paramount performance these days and if you’re afforded the opportunity to attend an advanced driving course, do everything you can to be there. Cars.co.za was invited to attend the Opel Driving Experience.
With so many cars on the road and with unpredictable conditions like potholes and thunderstorms, accidents do happen. You can prepare yourself for these scenarios by learning how to control a vehicle better, learn how a vehicle’s complex safety systems work and to appreciate how cars are engineered to keep you as a driver safe.
We were given a hands-on demonstration of how ABS works, how brake assist can save your life, how traction control works and how to control aquaplaning at the former military proving ground of Gerotek. This place felt like a giant playground for boys, and there’s numerous tracks and roads to drive as fast as you want on.
We had the chance to sample some of General Motor’s coolest products, like the Opel Astra OPC, Opel Corsa Nurburgring Edition and even the little 1.4 Turbo Corsa didn’t disappoint. To round off the day, the instructors took us on a flying lap of the Dynamic Handling Track – a proper adrenaline rush!
Watch the video and see what we got up to at the event.
Opel Driving Experience video
Opel Driving Experience gallery
2015 Volkswagen Jetta Revealed Ahead Of New York Debut
The updated 2015 Volkswagen Jetta facelift has been revealed ahead of its official public debut scheduled for later this week at New York Auto Show.
New TDI Clean Diesel
The updated 2015 Jetta will be introduced with new-generation advanced 2.0-litre diesel engine which produces 112 kW which represents a 7 kW increase from the previous version and has a maximum torque figure of 320 Nm which is available from 1750 to 3000 rpm.
In city driving, the Jetta TDI Clean Diesel with a manual transmission delivers a manufacturer-estimated 7.3-litres/100 km city/5.23-litres/100 km highway and its combined fuel economy is projected to be around 6.3-litres/100 km.
New design
The refresh on the sedans exterior include a redesigned radiator grille with three cross fins, optional Bi-Xenon headlights with Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS), and a new bumper. While the new rear design incorporates a revised boot lid with a ducktail spoiler along with LED taillights for the GLI and Hybrid versions which feature a bright stripe, as well as a redesigned VW logo.
Volkswagen says it has introduced numerous innovative aerodynamic modifications into the design and equipment of the 2015 Jetta which benefits from the air drag that has been reduced by the new bumper, optimized air intakes, and aerodynamically refined rain gutters on the sides near the A-pillars, and the changed underbody panels.
Updated interior
Updates to the Jettas interior include chromed edges for the dash and gauges, as well as a new multi-function display and steering wheel. Theres also redesigned air vent controls, piano black accents on the centre console and around the gear shift lever, new chrome accents around the dual-zone Climatronic control, ambient lighting, and new fabric colours and designs for the seats.
The refreshed 2015 Volkswagen Jetta will also be fitted with a wide range of safety assistance systems such as Blind Spot Detection plus rear cross-traffic alert and frontal collision warning, as well as Bi-Xenon headlights with Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS), turn signal, and LED Daytime Running Lights.
The 2015 Volkswagen Jetta facelift will be on show at the New York Auto Show before going on sale in the second half of the year.
2015 Volkswagen Jetta gallery
BMW Concept X5 eDrive Official Details Revealed
BMW has unveiled the updated Concept X5 eDrive, ahead of its debut at the upcoming New York show.
Intelligent hybrid technology
The updated BMW Concept X5 eDrive looks very similar to the original concept shown at the Frankfurt Motor Show last year. Under the bonnet is a twin-turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine delivering 180 kW. The engine is mated to a 70 kW electric motor developed and a lithium-ion battery which is housed underneath the luggage compartment.
This setup enables the vehicle to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in less than seven seconds and travel up to 30 km in electric mode at speeds up to 120 km/h. Fuel consumption is rated at 3.8-litres/100 km with CO2 emissions under 90 g/km.
In addition to the settings that can be activated using the characteristic BMW Driving Experience Control switch, three driving modes can be selected according to requirements and the situation at hand: intelligent hybrid drive with an optimal relationship between sportiness and efficiency (AUTO eDrive), pure electric and thus local emission-free driving (MAX eDrive) and SAVE Battery to maintain the current charge level.
Understated styling
On the looks front, the model features the same kidney grille, Silverflake metallic paint finish, and the same BMW i Blue accents throughout. The car has also been equipped with a set of bespoke lightweight alloy 21-inch wheels and new roof rails.
In the cabin, the blue accents continue and are complimented by the exclusive Ivory white leather upholstery, piano black trim, blue accents and “eDrive” embossed headrests. The model also has blue ambient lighting, blue contrast stitching and a transparent cover illuminated in blue and affords a clear view of the high -voltage battery for the electric motor.
The BMW Concept X5 eDrive will be on display at the 2014 New York Auto Show. It remains unclear whether BMW will put the concept into production.
BMW Concept X5 eDrive gallery
BMW Recall 2014: Official Statement For SA
BMW has issued a recall for over 150 000 luxury cars and SUVs due to bolt faults in some of the six-cylinder engines, potentially causing engine-stalling, failure and damage.
As already announced, as part of a global voluntary quality measure BMW is taking the precaution of checking the bolts on the Vanos unit in selected vehicles with six-cylinder engines. Depending on the results, the bolts or the Vanos unit will be replaced. Worldwide this affects 489 000 vehicles. The biggest individual markets as already announced are China with 232 000 vehicles and the USA with 156 000 vehicles, said Edward Makwana, BMWs group automotive communications manager.
He added that 3 120 vehicles have been affected in South Africa.
“We will be contacting all the affected customers to check the Vanos unit on the affected vehicles. Depending on the results of this check, either the bolts or the complete Vanos unit will be replaced. Vehicles will spend approximately 4 hours in the BMW workshop and this service will be free of charge.
*Earlier, we posted incorrect model years. We were advised by BMW South Africa of the correct model years affected and have amended the article. Cars.co.za apologises for any inconvenience caused.*
Mercedes-Benz GLA: Now In South Africa
Perhaps the most surprising aspect of the launch for Mercedes-Benzs new GLA is its ad campaign pay-off line: Always Restless. Tooling along on wonderful, meandering back roads in the beautiful Garden Route in the Eastern Cape, I found myself thinking I was Always Relaxed behind the wheel of this latest, and I may hasten to add, greatest version of the A-series cars from Mercedes-Benz.
Just to recap. The new A-Class hatch is great on looks and image, but in many versions has a suspension system that is stiff like a board. The Mercedes-Benz CLA in the various guises that I’ve experienced seems even stiffer and the cabin feels claustrophobic, which is surprising, given its so-called sedan-like appeal.
As far as sales figures are concerned, Mercedes has been spot-on in the way it has targeted and configured these cars for the youth market. If I think of the kind of driver likely to drive an A-Class I think of a dude sitting as far away from the steering wheel with his cap on backwards. And as for the CLA, I think of a person for whom style takes preference above anything else. Grit your teeth and bear it over the speed bumps at Melrose Arch! Yeah, there is a nine-month waiting list on the CLA right now.
Now the GLA is a different kettle of fish. It has shown that theres nothing fundamentally wrong with the chassis platform of the A-Class or CLA that sensible spring and damper rates wont cure, because it shares that platform with them, and the GLAs wheelbase at 2 699 mm is identical to that of the CLA.
Ride and handling
Its ride is way better than anything experienced in the hatch and sedan, and that is even with the launch Mercedes-Benz GLA units were mostly fitted with the so-called sports-pack suspension and low-profile tyres. Mercedes has said that a version with more ground clearance and higher profile rubber is indeed in the offing in the GLA range, and we would love to experience this, because, as a cross-over vehicle, we do feel that the GLAs 130 mm or so of ground clearance is distinctly on the terra firm side of the spectrum.
Dimensions of the GLA
What is surprising, configuration wise, is that it is appreciably shorter than the CLA sedan. The GLA can thank its 4 417 mm overall length to the no-overhang if possible profile , making it some 2 13 mm shorter than the sedan (which admittedly has a large boot hung out the rear.
Interestingly, fitted with the 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine used in the GLA 200 CDi the car weighs 1 505 kg, only about 20 kg more than the 200 CDi CLA sedan, and yet the 200 diesel sedan uses a presumably lighter 1.8-litre engine. Yes, in this day and age a 200 or 180 or 250 badge doesnt have much to do with engine capacity, but more the way the marketers see a certain model fit into the range in terms of expectation.
Models available right now
The two models launched right now are the 200 CDi and the 220 CDi. Both of these use a 2 143 cc 16-valve modern diesel engine designed to comply with the latest Euro-spec emissions, and said to give brilliant fuel economy. On the launch drive we were returning fuel consumption figures in the 6.8 l/100 range, which is excellent considering this is a large passenger-type car. And the CO2 rating is sub-120 grams per km, which means there is no CO2 tax payable.
Practicality
Mercedes has done an excellent job of providing the GLA with a light body-shell that is like its A-Class and CLA siblings and is extremely strong and rigid. Not only that, but once again it has a best-in-class CD or wind-drag co-efficient of 0,29, a figure that would have done a small hatch-back extremely proud just a few short years ago. There is pretty good boot capacity for a cross-over-type vehicle at 421 litres, and the boot is easily loadable with hardly any lip above the bumper area. Both models now on sale feature the electric boot-lid raising mechanism that can be handy if you approach the car loaded with supermarket packets and crates of drinks.
I found the dash layout okay from an aesthetic point of view, not as stylish as that of its competition (from the likes of Audi in particular). But you can equip the car with seriously good gizmos at a price, including surround camera vision, which is handy for parking. The cost of extras on all these types of cars, from all the premium manufacturers, is a source of concern. The base launch prices of R420 000 for the 200 CDI and R489 000 for the 220 CDI 4Matic are actually very reasonable in comparison to those for the A-Class and CLA. But we noted than on each car that we drove on the launch were equipped with extras worth R90 000 and R100 000!
4×4 ability
For me, the GLA typifies solid family values in a stylish package, and if that means if you are also a fun-type person, then I can buy the whole concept. As a car, I can definitely buy the concept. Its a good one. As for off-road ability in the 4Matic, well, we did a mild bit of off-roading at some sort of nature-type venue through some tress and up grassy slopes, and using the hill descent control it coped well. However thats something which has been around since 1998 or so, when the Land Rover Freelander introduced it. No low-range here. Anyway, that 130 mm odd ground clearance is far too low to attempt anything on really rough stuff.
Other engines coming soon
In a few months time Merc will be launching petrol versions of the car, and the least expensive 1.6-litre petrol variant (the 200) will launch at R398 000. There will also be a 250 4Matic at R558 900. For now, Id go for the 200 CDI in front-wheel drive form. All of them come with six-year / 100 000 km Premium Drive warranties and maintenance contracts.
Last year, Ford announced the revival of the Escort nameplate with a new concept which was showcased at the Shanghai Auto show. And now the company plans to introduce a production version of the Ford Escort at this month’s Beijing Motor Show in China.
Ford is yet to come forward with more details, but it is reported that the car will be just about the same size as the Focus sedan but with a more spacious interior and extra technological features.
It is also likely that the production version will feature much of the concepts styling which adopted Ford’s most recent styling language with the Aston Martin-inspired chromed front grille and an overall look which resembles the larger Mondeo/Fusion.
Engine lineup, gearbox choices and front-wheel drive layout are expected to be carried over from the Focus. Interestingly, it’s not too dissimilar to the Ford Figo concept we saw in India earlier in 2014.
The Ford Escort production version will be unveiled on April 20 at the Beijing Motor Show.
Chevrolet Sonic RS (2014) Review
The range-topping Chevrolet Sonic RS spent a week with Cars.co.za and David Taylor was impressed with more than just the name.
Engine and powerplant
Naturally, being a performance model, you’ll want to know all about the engine. Sadly, this is no hot hatch and if you’re expecting to run with the Volkswagen Polo GTIs of this world, you’re in for a nasty shock. Then again, they’re considerably more expensive. There’s a 1.4-litre turbocharged four cylinder with 103 kW and 200 Nm which puts the power to the front wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox.
It’s not outrageously quick, but it’s pleasantly brisk. In-gear acceleration is decent and when you’re in the mood, you can get a move on. You should get to 100km/h in under ten seconds, which isn’t bad. Fuel economy was a pleasant surprise too, with the readout sitting at just under 8l/100km. Interestingly, this engine also does duty in the Opel Astra GTC – a stylish coupe.
Ride and handling
This is an amusing car to drive. See, the problem with performance cars is you’re often left feeling like your bones have been shaken up due to the harsh ride, and in an ideal world we’d have fun-to-drive cars without rock-hard suspension. A major tick goes to the Chevrolet Sonic RS for balancing the daily driver task with some cornering agility. When you’re pushing hard on a tight road, the Sonic RS will put a smile on your face and the best part is you don’t need to go at lunatic speeds either.
Styling
The Chevrolet Sonic RS is quite an aggressive-looking machine. It reminds me of a chihuahua with a spiked collar – all bark and very little bite. That said, you’re getting racy gunmetal grey 17-inch alloy wheels, chrome exhaust, a bolder body kit incorporating bumper, skirts and diffuser, as well as a nice red RS badge slapped onto the rear.
Features
You get a generous helping of gadgets and gizmos in the Chevrolet Sonic RS. Aside from the impressive MyLink infotainment system, you also get cruise control, manual air-conditioning, six speakers, multi function steering wheel and you can fold down the back seats for a bigger boot. Check out the gallery below to see how the Chevrolet Sonic RS swallowed a surfboard!
It’s safe too, with traction control, hill start assist, electronic stability control and has four airbags to protect the driver and passenger.
MyLink
The Chevrolet Sonic RS comes fitted with MyLink – Chevrolet’s own infotainment system and it’s simply brilliant. All you need is a Bluetooth-capable smartphone and the TuneIn app, which is available for both Android and IOS devices. Within a minute, my Samsung was connected to the car and this allows music streaming as well as hands-free telephone operation. The seven inch screen is crisp and is very intuitive. You can look at photos and even watch video clips. If only all manufacturers could make such uncomplicated systems…
Summary
The little Sonic RS ain’t a bad offering and it comes with a generous offering of specification. It looks sporty both inside and out, but when it comes to actual out-and-out performance, it lacks slightly. It’s a brisk drive when you really want to open it up and if you want to attack some corners, you won’t be disappointed. Perhaps RS should stand for Really Sensible…
Chevrolet Sonic RS price in South Africa
The Chevrolet Sonic RS retails for R225 300 and the vehicle comes with a three-year or 60 000km service plan as well as a five-year or 120 000km warranty. Service intervals are every 15 000km.
Chevrolet Sonic RS (2014) Quick Specs
Engine
1.4-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol
Power
103 kW @ 6 000 rpm
Torque
200 Nm @ 4 000 rpm
Transmission
6-speed manual gearbox
Wheels
17-inch
0-100km/h
6.6 seconds (claimed)
Fuel economy
9.5 l/100km (claimed)
We like:
. Nice performance addition to the Chevrolet Sonic range
. MyLink is one of the best infotainment systems
. Fun to drive
2015 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible Officially Unveiled
Chevrolet has officially introduced its world-class super car – the 2015 Corvette Z06 Convertible. It’s due to be unveiled at the New York Auto Show.
Supercharged performance
Announced as the most powerful convertible ever produced by Chevrolet, the Z06 features an all-new LT4 6.2l supercharged V8 engine, expected to deliver at least 466 kW and 861 Nm of torque.
It can be connected to a seven-speed manual transmission with Active Rev Match or an optional all-new 8L90 eight-speed automatic transmission designed to enhance performance and efficiency.
All-aluminium, high-tech foundation
This is the first Z06 Convertible offered from the factory since 1963, and Corvette chief engineer Tadge Juechter noted, Until recently it was not possible to create a lightweight, open-roof structure strong enough to cope with the braking, cornering, and acceleration of Corvettes top performance models”. “The frame for the Z06 convertible leverages advancements in computer-aided engineering, metallurgy, and manufacturing techniques many of which were not available just five years ago, he added.
Chevrolet says the cars aluminium structure is actually 20 percent stiffer than the previous fixed-roof Z06, and that the car makes use of a power folding roof that can be opened or closed at speeds up to 50 km/h.
Practically every exterior panel serves a functional purpose to meet the performance goals of the Z06, said Tom Peters, Corvette design director, The flared fenders accommodate larger, wider wheels and tyres for more grip. The larger vents provide more cooling air to the engine, brakes, transmission and differential for increased track capability. The more aggressive aerodynamic package generates true down force for more cornering grip and high-speed stability.
The convertible is additionally fitted with Michelin tyres mounted on lightweight, spin-cast aluminium wheels (19 x 10 inch in front and 20 x 12 inch in the rear).
Interior details
The 2015 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible benefits from interior details designed for high-performance driving. Such as a steel-reinforced grab bar on the centre console for the passenger and soft-touch materials on the edge of the console. There are also two seating choices with a magnesium frame structure, a flat-bottom steering wheel with a carbon fibre centre spoke. The vehicle also comes in five interior colours, including two that are unique to Z06 blue and dark grey.
The 2015 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible is expected to go on sale early next year.
