Chevrolet Sonic RS Arrives In SA

Although Chevrolet will not be sold in Europe to give Opel a fighting chance in that market, in South Africa, the golden-badged empire expands with a host of new products launching this year, starting with the Chevrolet Sonic RS.

The Sonic has been with us for some time but this new halo model brings the nameplate right up to date by being fitted with Chevrolets new MyLink system as standard. It is a superb touchscreen/smartphone interface, and well look at it closely later on.

The Looks

I loved my Sega Megadrive as a kid and the smash hit game at the time was Sonic the Hedgehog. I have a feeling that the blue speedy spiky-haired rascal would have liked the bold little Sonic, especially in RS trim. Its one of those cars that looks like its moving quickly while standing still.

Those 17-inch mags are standard on this model and they help transform the overall look. Coupled with some nice new paint options, you might find yourself wanting one more than you expected. A fairly large rear spoiler completes the package.

The Engine

Chevrolets global EcoTec (read Opel) powerplant does duty here, in 1.4 turbo guise. Your petrol will be converted into a maximum of 103 kW and 200 Nm of torque, sent through the front wheels. Its not a monumental amount of power but the Sonic never feels sluggish, unless your revs are too low in a higher gear.

0 -100km/h comes up in 9.5 seconds, which again is not stellar, but it feels quicker and in-gear acceleration is very decent, making overtaking a stress-free affair, especially if you drop a gear. A top speed of 197km/h is claimed.

Sonic RS fuel consumption

Official fuel consumption is at 6.6 litres/100km combined. We achieved 8.6 on our launch route, which was mostly the swooping open roads of the Western Cape. Also, we were using most of the kilowatts, so I would imagine you may achieve quite close to the manufacturers figure.

The ride and handling

While I think rivals like the Suzuki Swift Sport are a little more fun and more visceral than the RS, the little Sonic does manage to entertain while giving you confidence to attack the bends.

Theres a healthy amount of grip and a tuned suspension keeps things on the right side of sporty, without feeling crashy. Its well set up for where it will spend most of its life around town but if you find yourself on a glorious cape road, theres enough front-wheel-drive-themed sportiness to keep you interested.

Chevrolet MyLink

The interior has not changed much from other models but they have done enough to make it feel sufficiently special in here. There is a special RS steering wheel which really helps set the tone for a sportier drive. Little red RS accents are everywhere, including on the larger rev counter and leather with red stitching and piping is standard.

Im not terribly impressed by some of the plastics but it overall its well put together and not at all offensive on the eye.

The highlight of this model is by far and away the 7-inch, high resolution touch screen dominating the dash. The MyLink system is bang up to date and connects seamlessly with your smartphone, for which there is a convenient second cubby hole in the dash, with USB and aux jack inputs.

The system allows you to control apps on your phone via the touch screen and steering wheel controls. We used TuneIn, an international radio app, to stream BBC Radio One through the winelands. Brilliant. Nice sound system too.

Chevrolet Sonic RS Price in South Africa

The new Chevrolet Sonic RS is available for R 225 300 and is available as standard with a 5-year/ 120 000 km warranty and a 3-year/ 60 000 km service plan linked to service intervals of 15 000 km.

Rivals

The only true rival on all aspects is the Suzuki Swift Sport. At R223 900, with a 1.6 normally aspirated motor, you might be better off with the turbod RS on the reef, but at the coast, my choice would be the Swift. Its quite simply a more involving drive. Although, I would miss that MyLink system very much.

The Sonic 1.3D is an interesting alternative. At R201 500, there is more torque on tap, but only 70kW. 0 100 is 11.7 seconds but claimed fuel consumption is 4.6 litres/100km very impressive. So youd save on initial purchase and every day on fuel.

And lastly, everyone has a Mini. Instead of buying the bog standard Cooper when you know you want the Cooper S, why not save a small fortune (R247 642 for the Cooper, R314 668 for the S) and have a look at the Sonic. It has more power than the Cooper (90kw vs 103kw) more torque (160nM vs 200Nm) but the Sonic uses a little more fuel (5.8 vs 6.6l/100km).

The Mini might be a better drive, but its less practical, and youll get way more of the kit you use every day in the Sonic. Not a bad option in my opinion.

Chevrolet Sonic RS 1.4T Quick Specs

Engine	1.4-litre turbocharged inline-4 petrol
Power	103 kW @ 4 900 6 000 rpm
Torque	200 Nm @ 1 850 4 900 rpm
Transmission	6-speed manual
Wheels	17-inch
0-100km/h (Claimed)	9.5 seconds (claimed)
Fuel economy	8.6l/100km (tested on the launch route)

Photo Gallery

Audi S Model Range Extended – Specs and Prices

The Audi S model range has been extended with two new variants the Audi S3 Sportback and the Audi S Q5, which Audi say is part of the thirteen S model line-up that will be completed by the end of 2014.

The S model line-up

Also available to order is the S3 Sedan which is due to be introduced in South Africa in May 2014, completing the A3 sedan range offering.

The second quarter will further see the launch of the 200 kW Audi TTS Special Edition, of which South Africa will be receiving 25 units of the 500 available globally.

This exclusive edition Audi TTS will only be available in a choice of Imola Yellow or Nimbus Grey with the Impulse leather package decorating the interior in grey leather with Imola Yellow stitching.

Launching soon after that will be the newly improved Audi S8, followed by the Audi S1 in the second half of the year, and finally the S3 Cabriolet will be added to the drop-top family for the first time.

The third-generation Audi S3 Sportback

The S3 Sportback made its first official debut at the 2013 Johannesburg Motor Show. It makes use of a 1984cc four-cylinder 2.0 TFSI engine which delivers 206 kW at 5500rpm and 380 Nm from 1800 to 5 500rpm.

Using the six-speed S tronic gearbox allows the S3 to sprint from zero to 100 km/h in five seconds, with an electronically governed top speed of 250km/h.

Combined fuel consumption is rated at 6.9-litres/100km with CO2 emissions of 159 g/km.

The following equipment is offered as standard on the S3 Sportback: 18-inch five-parallel-spoke design cast aluminium alloys, Xenon Plus headlights, S sports suspension, progressive steering system with dynamic ratio, cruise control, auto dimming interior rear view mirror, Bluetooth with audio streaming and voice control, brushed stainless steel pedals, S3 Sport seats, and S3 instrumentation in grey with turbo-boost indicator. S3 decals can also be seen on the multifunctional sports steering wheel with large shift paddles, door-sill trim and on the rear boot lid.

The Audi SQ5 TDI

The first ever Audi S model in the Q range the Audi SQ5 TDI is also the first S model with a twin-turbo V6 diesel engine.

The performance SUV features attractive design characteristics such as restyled front and rear bumpers, a roof spoiler, and black brake callipers at the front with SQ5 badging.

Boosted by two turbochargers, its 3.0 TDI delivers 230 kW of power and 650 Nm of torque between 1 450 and 2 800 rpm.

Acceleration from 0-100 km/h takes just in 5.1 seconds before reaching a governed top speed of 250km/h. Fuel consumption is on average 6.8-litres/100km with CO2 emissions of 179 g/km. Transferring power of the V6 diesel to the road is a eight-speed tiptronic and quattro permanent all-wheel drive with torque vectoring.

Sports suspension lowers the vehicle body by 30 millimetres, while it is fitted with 20-inch wheels as standard.

Standard specification which will be available with the Audi S Q5 includes 20-inch S-design alloy wheels, MMI 3G Navigation Plus, Audi connect on-line services (including Google Earth navigation and Wi-Fi hotspot), S-design flat-bottom steering wheel with paddles, exhaust sound actuator, S-design interior trim, S-embossed front sport seats in alcantara/leather, twin exhaust tailpipes, S-design front and rear bumpers and S-design side sills.

Audi S model range price in South Africa

Audi S3 Sportback quattro S tronic R500 500

Audi S Q5 TDI quattro tiptronic R794 500

Both models are available with the standard five-year/100 000km Audi Freeway Plan.

Gallery

Audi at Delhi Motor Show

David Taylor spent a few days in India and visited the Auto Expo 2014. I have compiled a brand-by-brand breakdown of what was showcased. Please note that some of these products may not be sold in South Africa as each market is different.

Audi is the most popular luxury brand in India and sells pretty well to the upper echelons of society. To keep the wealthy masses happy, Audi had some rather eye-catching products on its stand.

Audi R8 V10 Plus

The Audi R8 V10 Plus is currently the fastest road-going product offered from the German manufacturer. Power is rated at 404 kW while torque is pegged at 540 Nm.

Audi R18 eTron hybrid

For the motorsport fans, Audi brought along its fearsome R18 ETron Le Mans racer. This car is a hybrid and has a monstrously tuned V6 turbodiesel engine and the vehicle has claimed numerous victories in multiple races.

Audi A3 cabriolet

Audi had the all-new A3 convertible on its stand. This vehicle will be coming to South Africa in May 2014.

Audi Sport Quattro Laserlight

The head-turning product on Audi’s stand was the quattro sport laserlight. This plug-in hybrid boasts over 500 kW, will hit 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds and break through the 300km/h barrier. What’s even more special about this car is its rather special headlamps which use a combination of LEDs and lasers to provide illumination for almost 500m of road.

Spyshot: 2014 Minis Spotted In SA

We’ve bagged ourselves some exclusive spyshots. A few Mini test mules from Europe were spotted in Swellendam and quality images were sent to us.

Mini mules in Swellendam

It looks like we’ve got examples of the 2014 Mini Cooper, the 2014 Mini Cooper cabriolet as well as a four-door Mini of sorts. We can’t tell if this is the new Countryman or just a four-door Cooper. It’s interesting to note that the convertible has the same boot opening style as the Citroen DS3 Cabriolet, which has a hatch at the bottom.

The new 2014 Mini Cooper will be reaching South African shores later this year and we already have pricing for you to check out.

Thanks to Graeme Sears for sending us the photos.

2014 Mini Cooper Spyshots gallery

2015 BMW X3 Unveiled

The 2015 BMW X3 has been officially revealed boasting an upgraded interior and revised engine line-up.

Engine line-up

Upon launch, the X3 will be available with a new generation of 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engines.

The X3 xDrive20d equipped with a 2.0-litre engine will deliver 140 kW and 400 Nm of torque – an increase 5 kW and 20 Nm. The added performance allows the model to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 8.1 seconds.

Urban/extra-urban/combined fuel consumption is rated at 5.85.4*/5.14.8*/5.45.0* l/100 km respectively, with CO2 emissions of 141131 g/km.

There’s also an eco-friendly X3 sDrive18d with a classical rear-wheel drive and a six speed manual gearbox and develops 110 kW and 360 Nm of torque. This enables fuel consumption to average 5.0-l/100km with CO2 emissions of 131 g/km.

* Figures with optional reduced-rolling-resistance tyres on 17-inch Streamline style 360 wheels.

Dynamic appearance

The new BMW X3 cuts a visually more powerful figure than its predecessor and can be distinguished by its new bumpers, exterior mirrors with integrated turn signal indicators, a revised grille as well as restyled headlights (with optional LED headlights) and alloy wheels. The model also gains several new exterior colours.

The xLine package adds “simulated” underbody guards, metallic trim and exclusive 18- or 19-inch alloy wheels. While the M Sport package includes an aerodynamic body kit, shadow line trim, 18- to 20-inch alloy wheels, sport seats, an anthracite roof liner and a sport-tuned suspension.

Exclusive ambience

A high level of perceived quality and exclusivity also defines the interior of the new BMW X3, however changes are limited but include chrome applications, a centre console with optional automatic climate control system in high-gloss black-panel look, and new cup holders with a sliding cover for the centre console underline the cars premium appearance.

There’s also an upgraded infotainment system and an iDrive controller with an integrated touchpad, Parking Assistant, the full-colour BMW Head-Up Display, the anti-dazzle High Beam Assistant and Driving Assistant Plus, including Lane Departure Warning, Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function and preventive pedestrian protection.

The model can further be equipped with a “Smart Opener” that opens the tailgate when put your foot under the rear bumper, as well as Real Time Traffic Information (RTTI), Concierge Services and the Intelligent Emergency Call function – available to order in South Africa from July 2014.

The 2015 BMW X3 will probably go on sale in South Africa sometime during 2014 or early next year.

2015 BMW X3 gallery

Suzuki at Delhi Motor Show

David Taylor spent a few days in India and visited the 2014 Delhi Motor Show. I have compiled a brand-by-brand breakdown of what was showcased. Please note that some of these products may not be sold in South Africa as each market is different.

Suzuki trades as Maruti Suzuki in India and is one of the biggest manufacturers there. In the top 10 most popular cars in terms of sales, Maruti Suzuki products take up six spots with the top four being Suzukis. The Alto is the best seller and 23 000 units were sold in December 2013. As a result of the brand’s popularity, the stand and show line-up at the Delhi Motor Show was massive. Here are some highlights from the Suzuki stand.

Sukuzi puts on a show at the Delhi Motor Show

Suzuki Ciaz Concept

This stylish sedan is called the Ciaz Concept and had tongues wagging due to its breathtaking looks. My fingers are crossed and I hope it becomes a C-segment production model which retains some of that style. Think of this as a potential successor to the underrated Kizashi.

Suzuki Omnilicous Cafe

India is filled with entrepreneurs and motorists who crave practicality and affordability. Why not combine your business with a cheap to own and run vehicle. This is the Suzuki Omnilicious Cafe, a vehicle designed to be a little restaurant on the go. It features two fridges for drinks as well as kitchen equipment to prepare food.

Suzuki SX4 / S-Cross

We’ll be able to see the next generation of the Suzuki SX4 / S-Cross as it is confirmed for South African introduction during 2014. If the previous generation was anything to go by, this one will be well-built and have terrific amount of standard specification.

Suzuki Swift and SX4 sedan

Suzuki was quite creative with some of its products on display, and revealed a Swift with a boy-racer body kit as well as an SX4 sedan with numerous go faster bits bolted on.

Suzuki Gypsy Escapade

Imagine a Suzuki Jimny was converted into a bakkie? The Suzuki Gypsy Escapade is just that and is aimed at the outdoor enthusiasts.

Renault at Delhi Motor Show

Renault is quite a big manufacturer in India thanks mainly to the popularity of its Duster SUV. Dusters are quite a common sight, but the French manufacturer is keen to push more of its products into the sub-continent.

Renault Kwid concept

Renault surprised everyone with this rather insane-looking concept. It’s called the KWID and looks like something from a science fiction film. You can read more about the Renault Kwid concept here.

Renault Megane RS265 Facelift

Many of you will recognise this as the Renault Megane RS265 Trophy, and you would be right. However if you look at the headlights, you’ll see they’re different which means this is a facelift.

Renault Pulse

It may be called the Renault Pulse, but you can clearly see it’s a rebadged Nissan Micra.

Renault Scala

This is the Scala, which is a French-badged Nissan-based sedan. I would guess this is the French equivalent of a Nissan Almera.

Renault Zoe

Renault is a firm believer in ZE (Zero Emission) vehicles and had an example of its green Zoe electric car, complete with charging point at the show.

2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe Official Image Leaked

Seen in concept form at the Frankfurt Motor Show last year, the first image of the production 2015 Mercedes-Benz S Class Coupe has leaked on the Internet ahead of a public debut scheduled for next month at the Geneva Motor Show.

The stylish two-door coupe is likely to share powerplants with its sedan siblings and also feature Mercs Magic Body Control technology.

The production version will also probably mimic the concepts design features such as the aggressive front fascia with sleek lighting and muscular wheel arches with redesigned alloy wheels.

The interior might also feature a redesigned steering wheel, repositioning of the wood trim to the dashboards top, as well as a more extensive use of metallic trim.

Engine line-up and other details of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe will be revealed in the next coming weeks or at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show.

2014 Toyota Corolla Launched in SA

The next generation of the popular Toyota Corolla sedan is currently being launched to members of the motoring media in Cape Town. Ciro De Siena is representing us and a driving impression of the vehicle will follow.

The new Toyota Corolla carries the same design elements as the Furia concept, but we’re pleased to see that the aggressive face on the front-end has been retained. It’s a good-looking car from the front, without being too assertive. The front has a bit of a slight Lexus design to it which is a good thing.

Looks aside, the main challenges the team faced when designing the new Toyota Corolla is to create a more practical and spacious interior, while retaining similar dimensions to the outgoing model. The wheelbase has been extended by 100 mm which allows a bit more space inside, while pushing the wheels out towards the edges of the vehicle therefore creating a bit of a dynamic sedan.

There’s a strong focus on refinement and the cabin has been engineered to deliver class-leading quietness. It’s rather practical and the boot capacity has been increased to 452 litres.

Standard features

Remote central locking across the range with keyless Smart Entry on Exclusive models
Power mirrors and windows (front and rear)
Follow-Me-Home Light Control System
Ambient temperature indicator
On-board computer (TFT Multi-information display screen on Exclusive)
60/40 Split rear seats
Airconditioning (Esteem and Prestige)
Automatic Climate Control (Sprinter and Exclusive)
Touch-screen display audio incorporates AM/FM radio, a CD/DVD/MP3 player, Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity with a music streaming facility, and a USB port for the connection of portable music players, with the facility to display iPod album cover art. A Back Guide Monitor is fitted as standard (Prestige and Exclusive)
Esteem and Sprinter models are equipped with a standard audio system, aux inport and USB port
Bluetooth hands-free system on all models except Esteem
Electrochromatic mirror (Exclusive)
Rain sensing wipers (Exclusive)
Cruise Control (Exclusive)

New engines

There are new engines for the new Toyota Corolla. There’s a 1.4 litre D-4D turbo diesel and three petrol engines; a 1.33 litre Dual VVT-i unit, a 1.6 litre Dual VVT-i engine and another new powerplant, the 1.8 litre Dual VVT-i. Every version comes with a six-speed manual gearbox, however the 1.6 and 1.8 petrol models can have the Multidrive S automatic fitted as an option.

Toyota Corolla Price in South Africa

Model	Price	Model	Price
1.3 Esteem	R214 900	1.6 Prestige	R241 900
1.3 Prestige	R232 900	1.6 Prestige (auto)	R252 900
1.4 D Esteem	R237 900	1.6 Sprinter	R248 900
1.4 D Prestige	R249 900	1.8 Prestige	R251 900
1.6 Esteem	R225 900	1.8 Exclusive 1.8 Exclusive (auto)	R272 900 R283 900

The new Corolla benefits from a three-year/100,000km warranty and comes with a standard five-year/ 90 000 km service plan. Service intervals are set at 15 000 km (including the 1.4 D).

2014 Toyota Corolla Photo Gallery

2015 Subaru Legacy Revealed

The 2015 Subaru Legacy was revealed at the Chicago Auto Show this week and offers a lot more in terms of safety tech, features, refinement and design. It’s also noted that Subaru is claiming its new Legacy boasts the largest interior passenger volume in the midsize sedan segment.

There are a number of four-cylinder and six-cylinder Boxer engines to choose from. The 2015 Subaru Legacy is fitted with the Lineartronic CVT box as well as symmetrical all-wheel drive as standard. The base model features a 2.5-litre four-cylinder with three trim lines, while the top of the range boasts a powerful 3.6-litre six-cylinder motor.

Trim and refinement

Trim and refinement is what the 2015 Subaru Legacy does best and the latest version boasts some impressive standard features. Limited trim boasts standard perforated leather upholstery; two-position memory for the 10-way power driver’s seat; a 4-way power front passenger seat; three-mode heated front seats. The rear seats are heated and feature their own air conditioning vents and to round off a great cabin, there’s a 12-speaker Harmon Kardon sound system.

New Safety and Security

The 2015 Subaru Legacy is fitted with a re-positioned rear-view camera, a new rollover sensor can deploy the side curtain airbags if the vehicle is about to roll. After the sun has set, the new Legacy features welcome lighting that automatically turns on cabin illumination and exterior lights as the driver approaches or leaves the car. There’s also a Keyless Access & Start system, as well.

For 2015, the Legacy features a new type of airbag restraint and a new available rear radar system. The new front seat-cushion airbags help to keep occupants in place in a frontal collision. The rear radar works as a blind spot detector, a lane change assistant as well as a rear cross traffic detection system. The latter will pick up vehicles while you are reversing out something like a driveway into a busy street.

There’s a new driver-assist option for the higher spec versions of the 2015 Subaru Legacy. EyeSight incorporates Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Braking and Vehicle Lane Departure Warning. This system is the highest-rated front crash prevention system by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

New Infotainment Systems

Subaru has been very busy working on the infotainment of its 2015 Legacy. There’s an HD Radio, Radio Data Broadcast System, single-disc in-dash CD player, 6.2-in. multi-function touch screen display, smartphone integration, rear vision camera, Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity and audio streaming, iPod control capability, USB port and aux. input jack. The multi-touch display offers swipe and scrolling gestures – much like tablets and smartphones.

If you want a bit more, the next trim level up adds in a 6-speaker audio system with 7-inch touch screen display, SiriusXM satellite radio, SMS text messaging, iTunes tagging capability and dual USB ports.

Currently Subaru Southern Africa is evaluating feasibility and viability for the 2015 Legacy.