The annual Geneva Motor Show like any other popular international motor show is well known for its debuts of various luxury and exotic vehicles, however the floors are also usually filled with radically designed concepts. Here are some of the wildest designed cars from the Geneva Motor Show.
Here is your latest weekly news wrap packed with all the highlights from the 2014 Geneva Motor Show a few local launches and reviews.
2015 Audi TT Coupe Officially Revealed
Audi officially revealed the third-generation TT along with a hot TTS variant.
Volvo Drive E Engines Now In SA
Cars.co.za Editor David Taylor went on the launch of the new Volvo Drive E engines which are now available in South Africa. The aim of the launch was to refine the current Volvo line-up and introduce powerful, yet frugal new engines to meet the current and future emission/economy legislation.
2015 Alfa Romeo 4C Spider Production Version Confirmed
The Alfa Romeo 4C Spider designed by the firms style centre made it world debut at the Geneva Motor Show, previewing a future model that is scheduled to go into production in early 2015.
GWM C50 Now In SA Specs and Prices
The GWM C50 is now available in South Africa in two trim levels and the brands latest 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine.
BMW has officially unveiled its new X4 crossover which will be available in six different engines and slots in under the X6.
2014 Toyota Aygo City Car Revealed
Toyota unveiled what it calls the J-Playful Aygo city car which is aimed at the young and hip crowd. You can expect full details of the South African model range and prices nearer to the launch date later this year.
Mazda Hazumi Concept Goes Official in Geneva
Mazda fully revealed the Hazumi concept which previews the next generation Mazda2 and is built on the same design platform as the mazda6 and mazda3.
Volkswagen T ROC Concept Official Gallery
Check out the official images of the Volkswagen T ROC Concept which has just been unveiled in Geneva and is designed to preview a possible SUV range.
Open-top high performance McLaren 650S Spider Shows Up In Geneva
McLaren has introduced in the 650S Spider which is being showcased alongside its fixed roof sibling and offers the same performance, handling, and driver enjoyment.
We’ve driven the Sportback S3 on launch, but what’s the two-door S3 like to live with for a week? Ciro De Siena drove it and fell in love with its interior.
The Audi S3 has confused me to no end. I didn’t want to like what I view to be a rather angry-looking little German hatch which is essentially a Volkswagen Golf. But after a week in an electric blue, three-door example, Im absolutely enamoured with the breadth of its abilities, and particularly the incredible interior.
Lets begin with the area you will spend most of your time looking at and interacting with, the leather cocoon that is the cabin of the S3. The newly-designed bucket seats dominate the cockpit, are cross stitched and gorgeous to look at, as well as comfortable and supportive. Audi has nailed it with these.
There is decent rear space, but those taller than six foot wont be comfortable. However the rear is well appointed and relatively easy to clamber out of, as the front seats slide fully forward when flicked over. Each rear seat has a cupholder, too.
But the star of the show here is the dashboard and human interface systems. Sounds fancy, but in reality the design and integration of the controls is just about the best I’ve ever experienced in any car in any price range. Audi has won awards for this interior; its simple, functional and beautiful.
There is some wonderful screen gymnastics as the screen pops out of a slot on start up. I like that. You can hide it at the press of a button too.
The volume knob is situated in the perfect place. Lying horizontally next to your knee, it is exactly where your hand rests. You can also flick it sideways to skip tracks.
And then the jog wheel. With a touch pad integrated into the jog wheel, you simply draw letters to tell the SatNav where youd like to go. Audi, if Im not mistaken, were first with this, but the integration with the jog wheel is a fantastic evolution of the concept seen in other cars. Top marks here.
Flinging you at the horizon is a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-banger with 206 kW and 380 Nm of torquey things. Curiously, thats exactly the power figure offered by an Opel Astra OPC, although that is only available in front-wheel drive. And it is a handful to say the least.
With what feels like infinite traction offered by quattro, all of that torque is available at 1 800 rpm and delivered to the tarmac with no drama just neck-bending acceleration.
0 100km/h is claimed at five seconds flat. Five seconds! Thats outgoing BMW M3 territory. Thats Porsche territory. That is quick. But the way it happens is remarkable.
You know that feeling when you pull back on an elastic band just before you flick it at someone in the office? Thats how it feels putting your foot down in the S3. All of sudden the car is being sucked towards the horizon and the exhaust is burping and barking and the engine note is just on the right side of loud.
It is wonderful. And addictive. And I may have emptied the tank because of it.
Corners are a particular treat in the S3, because there may as well not be any. With such a short wheel base, a stiff monocoque with only two doors to ruin the rigidity, the S3 sticks through the bends like Marmite on your lounge carpet. I cant imagine what entry speeds youd have to try to unsettle this car. A little bit of understeer is the first sign that youre being an idiot but even so, it still feels planted.
And applying boot on the exit tucks the backend in rather than push the nose wide, so you can get on the throttle with confidence. On that note, the confidence afforded here compared to a powerful rear wheel drive car is astounding. On a wet road, this car would surely outrun some of the fastest rear-wheel drive sports cars available.
While you can have a manual, the seven-gear S-tronic is better than you in every way. Look, its not going to steal your girlfriend, but when it comes to making the best use of the power at the best time, most of us amateurs could do worse than let the box do its thing. In normal drive mode, it holds a higher gear for better fuel consumption, but kicks down quickly.
In Sport mode, the S3 is a different animal. The box blips the throttle on downshifts which not only sounds fantastic but makes you feel like a pro. On upshifts, it will hold on right up to the redline depending on how aggressive you are with your right foot. In flappy paddle mode, pulling a paddle will result in the next gear arriving in 0.2 seconds with no discernible disruption in power flow. However, I generally left it in Sports auto. The logic has evolved and is now so smart that it feels like the car is thinking for you, so you can get on with the business of having immense fun behind the wheel.
To be honest if youre interested in a small, all-wheel drive German hatch, Volkswagen has not made this easy for you. Or actually, maybe it has.
At R493 000, the S3 is R10 000 more expensive than the recently launched Volkswagen Golf R. The two cars are identical under the skin. A 2.0-litre turbocharged heart with 206 kW and 380 Nm (sadly detuned from the European spec with 221 kW, because its too damn hot here) powers all four wheels. You cant have a two-door Golf R but you can have a four-door Sportback S3, so they are as close as anything to being true rivals.
For me, the interior of the Audi A3 is unparalleled, and would swing my choice over to the brand with the Four Rings.
However, that said, both of these cars are R100 000 more expensive than a base model Volkswagen Golf GTi, which is an exceptionally good car. Sure, theres a lot less power on tap, with 162 kW, but torque is close at 350 Nm.
So you wont be able to go around corners as fast as you would in the S3/Golf R. And youd get to 100km/h in 6.5 seconds instead of five seconds flat. But, youd save at least 1.4 litres of fuel for every 100 km travelled (based on VW and Audis figures) and in this day and age, that cant be sniffed at. Also, did I mention youd save R100 000?
By all means, park an S3 on your driveway if you have the money. Its about as sharp as hot hatches have ever been. But if youre trying to buy into this segment, you will be well served by the Golf GTi. Maybe just dont test drive the S3 or Golf R first. Definitely dont do that.
R476 000 for the the base S3 Quattro, R493 000 for the S Tronic model tested here.
Audi S3 Quick Specs
| Engine | 2.0 litre turbocharged inline-four petrol |
| Power | 206 kW @ 5 500 rpm |
| Torque | 380 Nm @ 1 800 rpm |
| Transmission | 7-speed S-tronic sequential gearbox |
| Wheels | 18-inch |
| 0-100km/h (Claimed) | 5 seconds (claimed) |
| Fuel economy | 6.9l/100km (claimed on the combined cycle) 12.3l/100km (tested mainly in urban conditions) |
We like:
. Fantastic and advanced interior
. Gearbox is smarter than you
. Great engine
. Superior levels of grip
We dislike:
. Price
. Golf GTI and Golf R look enticing (GTI with an aftermarket software remap looks even more tempting – Ed)
Also consider:
Volkswagen Golf R
Subaru WRX
Renault Megane RS265
Opel Astra OPC
Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG
BMW M135i
Revealed just before the Geneva Motor Show, the McLaren 650S debuted alongside its convertible version sibling the 650S Spider which offers the same performance, handling and driver enjoyment, with the addition of a two-piece retractable hard top.
The McLaren 650S Spider is identical to the 650S Coupe and is fitted with the unique McLaren M838T twin turbo V8 3.8-litre engine delivering 478 kW and 678 Nm torque. Just like the coupe, it needs 3 seconds to complete the 0-100 km/h sprint while the 0-200 km/h run is accomplished in 8.6 seconds, making it 0.2s slower than the 650S.
Fuel consumption and emissions remain the same for the 650S Spider, returning 11.7-litres/100km on the EU combined cycle and 275 g/km.
The difference in weight comes from the addition of a retractable hard top together with its roof mechanism. Thanks to the carbon fibre chassis, no added bracing is required to firm-up the Spiders structure. Adding 40 kg to the overall dry weight, the 650S Spider is a light 1370 kg.
Operating the two-piece top can be done at speeds of up to 30 km/h and the automatic process takes less than 17 seconds.
As with the 12C Spider, the 650S Spider uses a heated glass rear window that works independently of the roof and when the top is down it acts as a wind deflector reducing cabin buffeting. When the roof is up the rear screen can be lowered to allow more engine noise.
McLaren is said to start deliveries of the two 650S models later this spring.
The worldwide reveal of the Honda Civic Type R Concept took place at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show.
According to Honda, the model points to the styling direction for the exterior design of the highly-anticipated production new Type R that will debut in Europe during 2015.
Further detail on performance is yet to be announced, but the automaker did confirm that the forthcoming new Type R will be the first model to feature one of its brand new VTEC Turbo engines from the Earth Dreams Technology range.
Honda is also using the Geneva Show to showcase the powertrain layout of the next generation NSX, set to launch in 2015. Alongside this, is the next generation Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV) Concept, with the company confirming for the first time that the production version will be on sale from early 2016.
Here are some official images from the show below, for additional details on the model click here.
Here are the official images of the Volkswagen T ROC which has just been unveiled at the 84th Geneva Motor Show, and is designed to preview a possible SUV range.
We have all the details on the Volkswagen T ROC Concept here.
The covers have been lifted off the Mazda Hazumi Concept at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show after a number of leaks.
As mentioned previously the Hazumi concept previews the next-generation Mazda2 due later this year. It is equipped with a newly developed 1.5-litre SKYACTIV-D diesel engine which is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission enabling the supermini model to have CO2 emissions of less than 90 g/km.
The concept builds on the same dynamic KODO design found in Mazdas new generation models such as the Mazda CX-5, Mazda6 and Mazda3. It has been envisioned with the full array of SKYACTIV technologies tailored specifically for a subcompact car. It measures 4070mm long, 1730mm wide and 1450mm tall, with a 2585mm wheelbase and is fitted with 18-inch alloy wheels shod in 215/45 R18 tyres.
The cabin has enough space to house four people who will enjoy functions such as the Mazda MZD Connect infotainment system that works together with a Heads-up Cockpit.
The next generation of the Mazda2 will probably be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show later this year before going on sale early 2015.
Find out more about the car in the video below.
The new entry-level 2015 Jeep Renegade has been revealed at the 84th Geneva Motor Show, featuring a total of 16 different powertrain combinations for different markets around the world including the world’s first nine-speed automatic transmission in a small SUV.
The all-new 2015 Jeep Renegade is the worlds first small SUV with nine-speed automatic transmission, and depending on the market, it will be sold with no less than 16 powertrain combinations. These include four MultiAir petrol units, two MultiJet II diesel units and a flex-fuel E.torQ engine coupled to two manual and one dual-clutch DDCT offerings.
Four-wheel drive is standard on every model, and for more capability theres the Active Drive Low 4×4 system which includes a 20:1 crawl ratio. A disconnecting rear-axle is also included, which stays disconnected to save fuel economy, and reconnects to provide four-wheel drive.
Designed in America, crafted in Italy, the 2015 Renegade draws its styling inspiration from the bigger Wrangler and features fresh new styling with rugged body forms and aggressive proportions, seven-slot vertical front grille and a high ground clearance.
The model will also be offered in a Trailhawk 4×4 trim with 17-inch all-terrain tyres and an exclusive mode for rocks, while all other Renegade models will be equipped with auto, snow, and mud modes.
Additional features include front and rear tow hooks, a 0.8-inch lift, underbody skid plates and updated fascias that deliver a 30.5 degree approach, 25.7 degree breakover and 34.3 degree departure angle.
Interior design features include a Uconnect infotainment system with an optional 7-inch touchscreen in the centre stack, a large passenger grab handle, anodized accents, soft touch materials and a removable, reversible and height adjustable cargo floor panel and fold forward front-passenger seat.
Theres also a wide array of technological functions such as Bluetooth, DAB and HD radio, Sirius services, USB & AUX, as well as digital media broadcasting
Jeep will also offer two open-air roof panel systems called MySky. With a manual removable, or removable with premium power tilt/slide feature, the segment-exclusive My Sky roof-panel systems quickly bring the outdoors inside, while there will also be a power tilt/slide feature for those who dont want to take them off by hand.
Production of the 2015 Jeep Renegade will take place in Malfi, Italy.
The new 2014 Toyota Aygo city car has been unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show.
Dubbed J-Playful in reference to hip youth culture and a wealth of customisation options available, the 2014 Toyota Aygo still builds on the same design and structural qualities of its predecessor.
The overall length has increased by 25mm to 3455mm, and although front headroom has been increased by 7mm, vehicle height has been reduced by 5mm to 1460mm to support the cars aerodynamic efficiency. Both front and rear tracks have also been widened by 8mm.
To introduce a playful element, the designers used the concept of a soft object breaking through the hard shell of the design, creating break lines and giving Aygo its distinctive frontal X-graphic. The revamped Aygo additionally has a sloping beltline and an integral rear spoiler while body style choices will be limited to three and five doors.
The rear end features a similar design theme to the front, with the tailgate and lower bumper forming break lines in the vehicle’s solid surface. The lamp clusters are set within the hexagonal tailgate, and the upper bumper section widens into pronounced wheel arches which give the car a broad and stable stance.
Power comes from a revised variant of Toyota’s three-cylinder 1.0-litre engine which now delivers 51 kW of power at 6000 rpm and 95 Nm of torque at 4300 rpm.
The unit has been re-engineered to run with a higher, 11.5:1 compression ratio, and has an improved combustion chamber design for better efficiency.
Claimed combined fuel consumption is 4.1-litres/100km, with CO2 emissions of 95g/km. The Aygo will be offered with a five-speed manual transmission or optional new x-shift, an improved automated manual transmission that can be used in fully automatic mode, or with manual gear selection using paddle shifts or the shift lever itself.
Inside, the Aygo features a trapezoidal centre console, Toyota’s x-touch multimedia system operated using an integrated seven-inch touchscreen display which is offered as standard with a rear view camera.
Toyota also elongated the cabin by 9mm and the increased the luggage room capacity to 29 litres which makes loading easier thanks to the space between the sill and rear seatback being made 5mm wider.
It’s interesting to note the Toyota Aygo shares many components with the Citroen C1 and Peugeot 107. Full details of the South African model range and prices will be announced nearer to the launch date later this year.
There’s a new addition to the BMW family. The all-new BMW X4 combines attractive coupé looks in a Sports Utility Vehicle body. BMW claims this vehicle fits in the premium Sports Activity Coupe segment.
Like many BMW products in the X family, it will feature xDrive all-wheel-drive, a great list of standard equipment features as well as the powerful and efficient engines which BMW has become renowned for.
The BMW X4 is based on the BMW X3, but visually resembles a smaller X6. It’s very clearly a sporty model, especially when you look at the vehicle from a head on point of view. Sportiness factor is increased as the driver and front passenger sit 20mm lower than in the X3. There’s also a surprising amount of space for five people, and there’s a 40:20:30 split rear seat backrest.
There are three petrol engines and three diesel powerplants available for the new BMW X4. Outputs range from 135 kW to 230 kW and the engines come tagged with EfficientDynamics, meaning good performance with impressive fuel consumption. The one to watch out for is the BMW X4 xDrive35d – a potential monster in terms of outright sprint ability.
Transmission options include the eight-speed Steptronic or six-speed manual gearbox.
Yet again BMW shows off its incredible technology. The BMW X4 comes with a full-colour BMW Head-Up Display, the anti-dazzle High Beam Assistant, Driving Assistant Plus including Lane Departure Warning, Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function, preventive pedestrian protection and a Collision Warning system, which applies the brakes with anything up to maximum stopping power as required.
The very smart ConnectedDrive Services also allow drivers to sign up to innovative services such as Real Time Traffic Information (RTTI), the Concierge Service and Remote Services. Facebook, Twitter and AUPEO! personalised internet radio.