Toyota Prius Plug-in TRD Sets Nurburgring Lap Record (Video)
At a track famous for fastest lap records set, Toyota has announced its Prius Plug-in hybrid has accomplished a record-winning 0.4-litres/100 km lap of the infamous Nordschliefe.
Toyota Prius Plug-in sets benchmark 0.4-litres/100 km lap record
The record was set by Joe Clifford who completed the 20.7 km long course in 20 minutes and 59 seconds. The minimum speed of 60 km/h had to be maintained and no mechanical modifications were allowed. The only parts fitted to the car included lightweight 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in low-rolling resistance tyres, upgraded suspension and aerodynamic improvements.
The technology that made this possible is a Toyotas full hybrid system that pairs a 1.8-litre Atkinson cycle petrol engine with a small rechargeable lithium-ion battery. The batterys performance and excellent energy retention means the car can be driven faster and further on just electric power alone when compared to the standard Prius.
In addition, Toyota says the record was set during a public track session, so the car had to deal with navigate through traffic while sticking to the circuit rules including the minimum average speed of 60 km/h.
“Although the 12.9-mile (20.7 km) distance is similar to a typical commuter trip, the difference here is a rise and fall in elevation of around 1000 feet (0.3 km),” said Clifford.
In fact it was only on one long climb that the petrol engine cut in, and then only for a short while. Without that, we think we might have even achieved the ultimate 999.9 mpg (0.23-litres/100 km) read-out the highest figure the display can show.”
Toyota Prius Plug-in TRD in action at Nurburgring
Suzuki Swift (2014) Review
The Swift is a plucky hatchback that seemingly offers good value for money. Should the Swift be on your budget car shortlist?
This 2014 Suzuki Swift review will help you make an informed buying if you are looking to buy a first-generation Swift on the used car market.
Suzuki Swift – Quick Specs
Engine
1.2-litre four-cylinder petrol
Power
63 kW
Torque
113 Nm
Transmission
5-speed manual
Wheels
14-inch steel wheels
0-100km/h
12.5 seconds (estimate)
Fuel economy
5.7 L/100 km (claimed)
We like: . Fun to drive . Value for money . Exceptionally light on fuel . Doesn’t feel cheap
We dislike: . Boot is a little small, but that’s a minor gripe
The Swift is an admirable little car. It’s well-equipped, has a sporty drive and boasts interior space rivaling many bigger cars. Like most things in South Africa, inflation and exchange rate have made the great Swift 1.4 hover dangerously close to the R200k mark.
In an effort to counter spiraling costs, Suzuki South Africa launched the 1.2 entry-level model as well as the sedan Dzire, which we drove at the launch earlier in 2014. I’m behind the wheel of the Swift 1.2 hatchback and despite it coming in substantially cheaper than its bigger-engined sibling, offers just as much fun and specification.
What’s the Swift like to drive?
There’s a rev-happy 1.2-litre engine under the curved bonnet and it delivers 63 kW and 113 Nm. There’s a great five-speed manual gearbox and changing gears in the Swift is an effortless affair. Drive enthusiastically and the car responds with eagerness. At sea level, the car has a sporty drive and it’s most enjoyable. Few entry-level cars are this fun to drive.
Thanks to a superb chassis, the Swift 1.2 can be driven briskly and loves being thrown around corners. The best part is you can drive like a hooligan and won’t be punished with ridiculous fuel consumption. Suzuki claims 5.7 L/100 km on the combined cycle, but on our test route down to Cape Point and back, the car returned 4.7 L/100 km – a fantastic result.
Space and specification
Being a Suzuki, specification is quite generous. There’s a USB port with radio controls on the steering wheel, trip computer with consumption readouts, central locking, electric windows and front fog lamps. Safety wise, there’s ABS with brake assist and dual airbags for the driver and passenger.
The cabin is spacious and airy, and taller folk will not be uncomfortable in the Indian-built Suzuki Swift 1.2. The boot size may be a little on the smaller side, but you can increase its dimensions by folding the seats down.
Conclusion
As far as entry-level cars go, we found the Swift 1.2 to be a near-perfect offering. It’s fun-to-drive characteristics are thrown in with fair specification and outstanding fuel economy. If you can look past the Made In India sticker, this should be on your shopping list if you’re after a fun and affordable car.
How much does the Suzuki Swift cost in South Africa?
R136 900 puts you behind the wheel of the Swift 1.2 GL manual. There’s a lower-specced 1.2 GA available for R126 900 which does away with the radio.
The price includes a warranty against any defects for a period of 3 years or 100 00 km. There’s also a three year anti-corrosion cover as well as a 2 year / 30 000 km service plan.
Second Opinion
The Swift 1.2 is happy to have you rev the nuts off of it all day long and it’s actually quite rewarding and entertaining to do it. Contrarily, if you drive it respectfully it’s super fuel efficient. It’s a true Japanese simple hatchback – built to outlast its competition – Ashley Oldfield
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different Suzuki Swift models available in South Africa?
The 2025 Suzuki Swift in South Africa is available in three main derivatives: the GL, a new mid-tier GL+, and the top-end GLX.
What is the engine and performance of the new Swift?
The new Swift is powered by a Z-Series (Z12E) 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine. This engine produces 60 kW of power and 112 Nm of torque, and is paired with either a 5-speed manual or a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
What is the price of the new Suzuki Swift in South Africa?
The starting price for the 2025 Suzuki Swift is approximately R219,900, with the top-end GLX model priced around R284,900.
What safety features are standard on the 2025 Suzuki Swift?
Standard safety features across all models include six airbags, hill-hold control, ABS, electronic stability control (ESC), and ISOfix child-seat anchors.
What warranty and service plan are included with the Swift?
The vehicle comes with a 5-year/200,000 km warranty and a 2-year/30,000 km service plan.
BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe South African Pricing Announced
BMW has released South African pricing information for the 4 Series Gran Coupe.
For more details on the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe, click here.
BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe price in South Africa
Standard Model
420i
420d
428i
435i
6-speed Manual
R480 900
R512 400
R554 900
8-speed Automatic Transmission Steptronic
R498 900
R530 400
R572 900
8-speed Sports Automatic Transmission Steptronic
R503 900
R535 400
R577 900
R712 400
Sport Line
420i
420d
428i
435i
6-speed Manual
R494 000
R525 500
R566 500
8-speed Automatic Transmission Steptronic
R512 000
R543 500
R584 500
8-speed Sports Automatic Transmission Steptronic
R517 000
R548 500
R589 500
R720 800
Modern Line
420i
420d
428i
435i
6-speed Manual
R493 300
R524 800
565 800
8-speed Automatic Transmission Steptronic
R511 300
R542 800
583 800
8-speed Sports Automatic Transmission Steptronic
R516 300
R547 800
R588 800
R720 000
Luxury Line
420i
420d
428i
435i
6-speed Manual
R493 300
R524 800
565 800
8-speed Automatic Transmission Steptronic
R511 300
R542 800
R583 800
8-speed Sports Automatic Transmission Steptronic
R516 300
R547 800
R588 800
R720 000
M Sport package
420i
420d
428i
435i
6-speed Manual
R501 800
R533 300
R574 300
8-speed Automatic Transmission Steptronic
R519 800
R551 300
R592 300
8-speed Sports Automatic Transmission Steptronic
R524 800
R556 300
R597 300
R729 700
Jaguar XE Almost Ready for Launch
Jaguar has announced it will officially unveil its all-new Jaguar XE compact sport sedan on September 8, with sales scheduled to start in Europe in 2015.
The all-new Jaguar XE with aluminium-intensive architecture
Built around an all-new, aluminium-intensive architecture, the brand new Jaguar XE model will feature advanced suspension design which will offer thrilling performance, agile handling and precise, responsive steering, with outstanding levels of refinement.
The aluminium double wishbone front suspension is derived from the F-Type while, the integral link rear suspension promises to deliver sharp response and handling without compromising a refined and luxurious ride.
Jaguar vehicles have always been renowned for a balance of precise handling and high-quality ride. The XE is the culmination of everything the company has learned over the years. The Integral Link rear suspension provides a combination of supple ride and crisp handling that is unmatched in this segment. We are on target to deliver a vehicle that dynamically outperforms our rivals, said Mike Cross, Chief Engineer of Vehicle Integrity.
According to the company, the XE will be their first vehicle to be equipped with the latest generation Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) with steering damping. Jaguar has also developed an All Surface Progress Control that will increase traction of the rear-wheel drive sedan on various surfaces.
Jaguar has announced more details will be offered in the weeks to come before the car’s September 8 reveal in London.
Aston Martin V12 Vantage S Roadster Revealed (Video)
The much anticipated Aston Martin V12 Vantage S Roadster, billed as the company’s fastest and most potent roadster to date has finally been revealed.
Fastest-accelerating series production roadster
The roadster comes equipped with a 6.0-litre V12 engine delivering 421 kW and 620 Nm of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels through Aston Martins new rear-mounted seven-speed Sportshift lll transmission, which further enables the car to accelerate from 0-100 km/h 4.1 seconds before hitting a top speed of 323 km/h.
Like the V12 Vantage S, the Roadster will feature the three-mode (Normal, Sport and Track) Adaptive Damping System, a two-stage anti-lock braking system and a three-stage dynamic stability control system to fine-tune the suspension and steering to match your intended driving conditions.
Bespoke design features
Visually, the car features a ventilated hood, carbon fibre arrangements that include sporty black or titanium silver mesh. It also has an aggressive grille that draws inspiration from the CC100 Speedster concept, with heat extractors built into the long hood.
The interior has been styled to reflect the roadsters powerful nature with new seat and door trim as well as an optional carbon fibre package that adds carbon fibre trim, carbon fibre door handles and black alloy pedals.
The company is also introducing a Q by Aston Martin Collection which comprises of a variety bespoke features that include red-tinted carbon fibre, flashy colours both inside and out and a full carbon fibre centre console.
The new roadster is truly a treat for the senses with, underlying all this, the capacity to deliver one of the most dynamic, exciting and stirring driving experiences in our current range,” said Aston Martin Director of Design Marek Reichman.
The new V12 Vantage S Roadster not only looks the part, but has been engineered and built to showcase the ethos of Aston Martin: power, beauty and soul.
The Aston Martin V12 Vantage S Roadster will go on sale later this year. Pricing and availability will be announced closer to launch.
Powerful Aston Martin V12 Vantage S Roadster Unveiled
Toyota Etios Cross Driven at Launch
Next in line to make headway into the entry level crossover market is this Toyota Etios Cross. Its a pumped-up Etios, full of extra cladding to make it look a bit more butch. Toyota says the current Etios seems to be a bit girly and it wants to attract more masculine buyers, hence the muscle flexing bits around this Toyota Etios Cross.
Same Old?
Essentially youre still getting the same Toyota Etios that has been selling around 2 000 units a month locally for the last couple years. The Etios has had a bit of sprucing up over that period in order to keep it up to date. The interior was definitely improved upon from the first models we saw at launch in 2012.
The centre display of the Toyota Etios Cross where the RPM, speedo, fuel level and trip metre display look less tacky and the font size has been increased to a legible level. The radio unit is standard in the Etios Cross and has been upgraded as well to a modern unit that features Bluetooth, a USB port and an auxiliary jack.
Key Improvements
Toyota has certainly improved on what was a decent value for money offering by adding the extra touch of refinement our SA market requires over the Indian market where the car is built. The exterior bits though are what Toyota is hoping will get dudes into its Etios Cross and theres definitely some distinctive bodywork to mention.
Firstly the front bull bar grille changes the face of the Toyota Etios Cross and gives it a sort of handlebar moustache look. The side skirts have got serious sills now with bulging plastic running right the way around the Etios Cross. The rear end gets a grey scuff-plate as well as a roof spoiler for that boyish rear wing cool factor. The roof rack has been added and is not purely cosmetic, it can support a load of up to 50kg more than enough for a couple bicycles. Youll also note from the pictures that the Toyota Etios Cross isnt lacking for branding, the new model to the Etios lineups name is badged three times on the bodywork as far as we can see.
Strong Engine
The Toyota Etios Cross strong point remains its 1.5-litre petrol engine that really feels peppy when driven around the city. It accelerates up to speeds quickly, never feels laboured and with Toyotas quick shifting five-speed gearbox is happy to rev hard all day long. The ride is satisfactory and theres a decent amount of space for passengers in the back.
No Lift
The Toyota Etios Cross does not come with any sort of raise to the ride height, according to Toyota the Etios was built with SA in mind and therefore already had a slight ground clearance elevation. The standard 15-inch wheels do give the overall height of the Etios Cross an almost negligible increase in ride height if you want to be pedantic.
Pricing for Toyota Etios Cross
The Toyota Etios Cross comes onto the market at R159 800, those who are keen price watchers may have noted that its exactly R100 cheaper than the Renault Sandero Stepway launched in May 2014. Toyota is confident itll be able to hold the price advantage over the long run, but well have to wait and see wholl hold out as the winner when it comes to sales. Never thought Id be saying that in a Toyota vs Renault sales showdown in South Africa
Porsche Reveals 911 Turbo S Exclusive GB Edition
Porsche Exclusive has unveiled its 911 Turbo S Exclusive GB Edition which celebrates the 40th anniversary of the Porsche 911 Turbo S and will be limited to 40 examples.
Porsche 911 Turbo S Exclusive GB Edition detailed
Special features of the 911 Turbo S Exclusive GB Edition include high-gloss black finish on the rear spoiler, 20-inch Sport Classic alloys, exterior door handles and wing mirrors. Theres also a black Porsche logo and stripe decals running down the doorsills, and rear privacy glass.
Inside, the black leather upholstery features contrasting red stitching and unique highlights include Union Jack logos on the centre storage compartment lid and glove box. Personalised carbon sill guards with illuminated 911 Turbo S Exclusive GB Edition lettering and embossed Porsche head rests finish off the look.
The 911 Turbo S Exclusive GB Edition also features an all-wheel drive chassis with active rear axle steering, adaptive aerodynamics, full-LED headlights and a 418 kW flat six-cylinder twin-turbocharged engine.
Additionally customers will receive a bespoke photo book documenting the production process, a personalised indoor car cover and a leather key pouch with Guards Red decorative stitching.
Peugeot #5Year Plan Goes Live (Video)
Peugeot is now offering a 5 year premium plan for free with all new vehicle purchases
Peugeot #5Year Plan details
If theres one consistency with cars, its that they require some kind of maintenance and most of them come with a service or maintenance plan but usually have many exclusions (if youre lucky) and as Murphys Law would have it, the very things that are not covered will fall apart. That’s why the latest guarantee from Peugeot is very appealing to us.
Peugeot is offering a #5YearPlan for free with all new vehicle purchases. That means that all your services and replacement parts are covered (only excluding tyres and fuel). So if you’re looking to upgrade your ride any time soon to a Peugeot, take advantage of this information.
Warranties and service plans are crucial for any car from any brand. French cars have suffered in the past due to servicing issues, and the Peugeot #5Year is a massive step in the right direction for the brand.
Range Rover and Range Rover Sport Updated for 2015 Model Year
Land Rover is introducing a series of updates to its Range Rover and Range Rover Sport models to reaffirm its standing in the premium SUV segment.
Greater performance from Range Rover and Range Rover Sport
As the worlds best luxury and premium sporting SUVs, the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport have long offered an unrivalled combination of performance, luxury and off-road capability, says Phil Popham, Group Marketing Director for Jaguar Land Rover.
These latest updates ensure both vehicles maintain their market-leading positions, with a special focus on performance, efficiency and increased personalisation options.
The SDV8 engine now delivers 249 kW and 740Nm a 40Nm increase with a fuller torque curve from 1700 to 3300rpm thanks to detailed calibration changes.
Power is sent to the wheels through the ZF 8HP70 eight-speed automatic box which has been re-engineered with a revised torque converter incorporating a twin-spring damper. In spite of such a huge increase in torque, the SDV8s fuel economy and CO2 emissions remain unchanged at 8.7-litres/100 km and 229 g/km CO2.
Distinctive new features
Land Rover has additionally updated the looks of the two models with different puddle lamps, fixed panoramic roofs with power blinds as well as 19-inch Satin Dark Grey alloys for the Range Rover. The long-wheelbase derivatives can be specified with a sophisticated 22-inch alloy wheel for the first time.
An updated colour palette features Kaikoura Stone and Aruba Silver along with body-coloured or black roof and door sills.
Both the 2015 Range Rover and Range Rover Sport now come as standard with InControl Remote and InControl Secure systems which provide services such as SOS Emergency Call, Optimised Land Rover Assistance, Wi-Fi and a tracker system.
There’s also an Intelligent Cargo Mode system which automatically moves the front seats forward when detecting the rear seats are folded down to increase luggage capacity. Once the rear seats have folded flat, the front seats are returned as close as possible to their original position.
The 2015 Range Rover and Range Rover Sport are available to order from 16th July. South African availability is yet to be confirmed.
Mercedes-Benz Extends A, CLA and GLA-Class Engine Line-Up
First up is the A 220 4MATIC which comes with a new turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine delivering 135 kW and is connected to a 7G-DCT dual-clutch transmission which allows it to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 7.4 seconds. Fuel consumption is rated to average 6.3-litres/100 km with CO2 emissions of 148 g/km.
CLA 200 CDI: new diesel version
The CLA 200 CDI will come with a new 2.2-litre diesel version which replaces the previous 1.8-litre engine. The new engine produces 100 kW and 300 Nm of torque, and can be connected to a six-speed manual transmission, a 7G-DCT dual clutch transmission and a 7G-DCT dual clutch transmission with a 4MATIC all-wheel drive system.
In addition, the CLA 220 CDI features a 2.2-litre four-cylinder diesel engine with 125 kW and 350 Nm of torque, and can now be equipped with 4MATIC.
Other modifications include optimisation of the belt drive system, a cylinder head package with camshaft roller bearing and additional finishing, optimisation of the vacuum pump, aluminium pistons with optimised assembly clearances and a low-friction ring package and optimised roller bearing for the Lanchester balancer shaft.
GLA 180 CDI: new base model
Lastly, the entry-level GLA 180 CDI featuring the same four-cylinder engine offered in the A- and B-Class. The 1.4-litre four-cylinder engine delivers 80 kW and 260 Nm of torque, and is equipped with the 7G-DCT dual clutch transmission. The model has a combined consumption figure of just 4.0 or 3.9 litres/100 km and accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 11.9 seconds to reach a top speed of 190 km/h.
These new engines are already available to order in selected markets. South African availability is yet to be confirmed.
