Range Rover Sport (2014) Review

Before the Range Rover Sport, these vehicles werent really even called cars. Range Rovers were simply amazing 4x4s with the most luxury you could get in an offroad vehicle, which made them the darlings of people who liked to drive into the city now and again.

But since the advent of the Range Rover Sport in 2005, weve had to change the way we think and feel about the brand. This was a car, mind you, that had amazing performance despite its bulk and offroad ability. That ability could take it deep into the Andes mountains or the Sahara desert if you didnt mind scuffing those fancy aluminium alloys, or shredding one of the expensive low-profile tyres.

Range Rover has continued to trend towards ‘car-ness’ with its Evoque, a massive hit for it worldwide, and of course the full-sized Rangie continues to be the last world in luxury-orientated off-road travel with terrain mastery that defies its suave on-road presence.

Popular vehicle

Now we have the second-generation Range Rover Sport, launched here late 2013. The success of Range Rovers re-invention of itself as a car for all reasons and seasons can be realised by the sales figures of the previous-gen Sport. Since 2005, sales of that model soared above the 350 000 mark indicating an average of some 40 000 a year for a car that, at current South African prices, sells at between R850 000 and R1.3-million. Those kind of sales figures for a super-expensive car generate plenty of cash for development and Land Rover, the parent company, has not been shy to invest huge amounts in the development of new models.

The latest Sport follows the new full-sized Range Rover in using an all-aluminium chassis. And if you thought the previous Sport was impressive which it was wait until you experience what a weight loss of some 420 kg does for the overall dynamic ability of such a large vehicle.

The redesign has seen the nose change, the windscreen lean back further, and the overhangs shorten for a modern Sport that is completely in keeping with modern Range Rover. The Range Rover Sport is still one humungous chunk of metal lightweight or not and when driving it you should be aware that it’s still in the region of between 2 100 and 2 200 kg.

Engine choices

To motivate that mass, you can choose between a supercharged 3.0-litre V6 petrol delivering 250 kW, a turbodieselof 215 kW strength, or the magnificent 375 kW Supercharged V8 flagship.

Although the diesel and supercharged v6 engines are very good, there is no denying that ultimate feeling you get when you toss the key into the console, punch the starter button, and that new improved all-powerful V8 rumbles to life. I believe V8 engines could well be used in the treatment of psychological disturbance. There is a resonance peculiar to a V8s exhaust that is incredibly soothing to the soul, particularly on light-to-medium acceleration. It’s such a pleasant sound.

Range Rover Sport acceleration

You launch the Range Rover Sport off the line and in under 5.5 seconds you are doing 100 km/h, shaking your head all the while as you remind yourself this vehicle weighs over two tons! That feeling extends to the way this mammoth deals with changes in direction, as well as braking. The cornering of the car has been enhanced not only by its air suspension, but a new rear electronic limited slip diff which makes it handle like a sportscar.

Ride, handling and 4×4 ability

Progress in either flat-out or cruise mode is remarkably smooth, due in no small part to the very impressive eight-speed automatic gearbox fitted. In fact, with the Range Rover Sport you can choose two completely different transmission options when ordering the car. The one gives you the choice of a low-range (off-road) transfer case, while the other is an urban-orientated single speed transfer case.

Whilst both models come with Land Rovers second-generation Terrain Response system, I reckon few people will take the Sport to Botswana or Zambia for very serious 4x4ing. Nevertheless, if you need it, on all models there is some 260 mm wheel travel at the front and 272 mm at the rear, class-leading figures, to enable you to cope with just about any obstacle in your way.

Summary and conclusion

I wasnt overly enthusiastic about the level of trim in some aspects of the interior in the Range Rover Sport. I found the materials used and the overall design not quite as sophisticated as one would expect from a vehicle costing in the million-buck region. Also, the new cabin design made ingress to the drivers pew a bit of a chore as I kept bumping my head on that sloping A-Pillar.

But overall, its a huge improvement in this second-gen car which was already excellent, with fuel consumption now down in my personal experience from around the 22 litre/100 km level to 18 litres/100 in the city and as good as 14.5-litres per 100 at highway speeds. What an amazing car.

Range Rover Sport Price in South Africa

R 1,325,823 for the Range Rover Sport 5.0 V8 HSE Dynamic.

Range Rover Sport (2014) Quick Specs

Engine	5.0-litre V8 supercharged petrol
Power	375 kW
Torque	625 Nm
Transmission	Eight-speed automatic
Wheels	21-inch alloys
0-100km/h	5.3 seconds (claimed)
Fuel economy	13.8 l/100km (claimed)

We like:
. Exceptional performance for a two ton vehicle
. Sounds incredible when you accelerate
. Is a serious offroad 4×4
. Stylish

We dislike:
. Some interior flaws
. Supercharged petrol engine drinks fuel
. 21-inch low-profile tyres aren’t suited to serious offroading

Also consider:

. Porsche Cayenne
. Mercedes-Benz ML
. BMW X5

Mini Superleggera Vision Concept Unveiled

The MINI Superleggera Vision concept is unlike anything the company has done before. Shown off at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este 2014 in Italy, this open-topped two-seater convertible wowed onlookers and you can see why.

Designed by Touring Superleggera, who is a Milan-based coach building house and MINI, this lithe roadstar combines minimalist and emotional style with driving dynamics. This car is the result of modern Britishness meeting Italian flair.

Mini Superleggera Vision

Both inside and out, the MINI Superleggera Vision is about classic style and driving dynamics. There’s extensive use of high-end materials such as leather, black chrome and aluminium. According to Adrian van Hooydonk, senior Vice President BMW Group Design on the concept: “Touring Superleggera and MINI have much in common: both companies attach great importance to their history and this is something which defines their outward appearance to this day. What is more, they both emphasise iconic design and distinctive solutions. These elements are merged in the MINI Superleggera Vision to create an elegant automobile which interprets a British roadster under the influence of Italian style and hand craftsmanship.”

It still retains its MINI face through the headlamps and there’s a nice touch at the rear with Union Jack-style rear tail lamps. For me, this is one of the best-looking little concepts and a production version should be considered. This car drips cool and charm, and would be very popular amongst MINI fanatics. Let’s cross our fingers and toes, and hope this becomes a reality.

Live To Race

Cars.co.za will be joining CAR Magazine this weekend for the Live to Race event held at Killarney Raceway in Cape Town. While it’s always lovely to drive and sample the latest and greatest machinery, there comes a time when you realise there are people out there who are less fortunate than ourselves.

Live to Race is a charity event set up by Joe Struwig. Joe finished building his replica Ford GT40, then he realised the best thing to do would be to share his pride and joy with those who could only dream of such an awesome vehicle.

Live to Race works on a similar style to Reach for a Dream and the Cape Town-based non-profit organisation draws upon on a database of passionate petrolheads who are willing to take mentally handicapped, terminally ill and underprivileged children around the track. The 2013 event saw 65 children from five charities go around the track in a number of high-performance vehicles. I was involved in the 2013 event and was approached to be even more involved for 2014.

The 2014 event looks like it’s going to be bigger and better than previous events. This year big sponsors like Subaru Cape Town and Romans Pizza have come aboard, and the Western Province Motor Club has generously given Live to Race full usage of the circuit.

Check back on Monday for a gallery of this event.

Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate Unveiled (2015)

Hot on the heels of the highly-anticipated Mercedes-Benz C-Class sedan is the Estate version. The Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate will be launched internationally in September 2014, with a South African introduction in the first quarter of 2015.

It has the same emotional-sporty design, innovative technology, variability as the sedan, but it will feature an even bigger than before cargo volume. It will be a full import too, unlike the C-Class sedan which is locally manufactured at the Mercedes-Benz factory in East London.

The main difference between the sedan and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate is the added practicality offered. It has a 78 mm longer wheelbase, which results in a total increase of 94 mm. Standard maximum load capacity is rated at 1 510 litres, which is ten more than the previous model. Keep the seats folded up and you’ll have 490 litres of space to work with.

Engine choices for South Africa include the C180, C250 and C220 Bluetec, but we’ll keep our fingers crossed for the V8 AMG version making its way here too. Given how well station wagons and estates do overseas, it’s bizarre that the added practicality does not result in more sales locally.

Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate gallery

Citroen DS3 Receives New Look

One of Citroen’s most successful models, the DS3, has received a facelift which includes new efficient engines, customisation options as well as new safety technology. The improvements are for the Citroen DS3 hatchback and convertible.

With nearly 300 000 sales under the belt, the Citroen DS3 has been quite a success story for the French brand. Now in 2014, the vehicle receives some upgrades to further increase its appeal. All-new headlamps with LED and Xenon tech as well as sequential indicators are fitted. These new lamps offer better visibility and reduced energy consumption.

Citroen DS3 new engines

New engines which comply to stringent Euro6 standards have been introduced to the new Citroen DS3. There’s two new diesel motors called the BlueHDi 120 and BlueHDi 100, and these two motors feature cutting-edge tech and reduced emissions. Both diesel engines are claimed to consume under 4L/100km, which are astounding figures. The petrol-powered THP155 and Racing motors remain as standard. Given how good these motors are, perfection can’t really be improved!

The new Citroen DS3 hatchback and convertible also feature a new technology called Active City Brake technology, which automatically brakes the vehicle in low-speed scenarios. There’s also a reverse camera which makes parking situations easier and this is connected to the satellite navigation system.

The Citroen DS3 has done considerably well in South Africa and made the finals of the Car of the Year competition. This facelifted model will reach our shores soon and should do well in our market.

Audi A7 Sportback Facelifted

Audi has gone all out and made its A7 Sportback even more exciting. The revised Audi A7 Sportback offers new engines, near gearboxes, new infotainment systems and features some subtle styling changes. The facelifted Audi A7 Sportback combines the best elements of a sedan, a coupe and a station wagon in one attractive package.

Visually, the changes consist of revised grille, bumpers, new tailpipes and LED light technology all round. The infotainment system called MMI is now fitted as standard, however you can spec a heads-up display as an option. Wheel sizes range from 17 to 21 inches , and provide the Audi A7 Sportback with some great visual presence.

Audi A7 Sportback engines

There are five engines available for the revised Audi A7 Sportback. Excluding the powerful Audi S7, there are two petrol and three turbo-diesel powerplants to choose from. The entry-level model offers 160 kW, while the top of the range features 245 kW giving the Audi A7 a distinctive sport edge.

All engines comply with Euro 6 emission regulations and have been tuned for economy. The 3.0-litre V6 diesel with 160 kW and front-wheel drive consumes just 4.7-litres per 100 km. There’s also a biturbo diesel engine with 235 kW, which sounds like it could be great fun, without burning a hole in your wallet. The 4.0-litre V8 with 331 kW does duty in the fearsome Audi S7.

The facelifted Audi A7 Sportback hits European dealerships in the third quarter of 2014. We should see it in South Africa possibly before the end of year.

Subaru WRX (2014) Races into SA

*Pictured is a 2014 Subaru WRX fitted with the optional STI front lip and side skirts*

The 2014 Subaru WRX has screamed into South Africa and despite the rally heritage, claims to be more upmarket and luxurious than its predecessor.

As much as we’d all like to, one can’t drive a road-legal rally car and still come across as a responsible adult. It’s an issue to shake the boy racer image, and Subaru has realised this. The all-new Subaru WRX has been launched in South Africa in two variants and from first impressions, has grown up considerably without losing much of the performance and excitement.

Subaru WRX Styling

Styling for the new model is on the conservative side, but it still retains quintessential Subaru elements. Big glossy alloy wheels, quad pipes and intercooler bonnet scoop tick the right boxes. Overall styling still remains underwhelming, but I was given a vehicle to take home after the launch. This Ice Silver unit comes with an STI front lip, side skirts and rear bumper, which adds some visual drama and makes it quite a looker. That’s more like it!

Refinement and interior

The main thing about the new Subaru WRX is that it’s more user-friendly and refined. There’s a leather clad interior which offers supportive and sporty seats. The rear seats offer commendable legroom and spaciousness – something which was proven on the launch as I drove with two journalists and Subaru’s marketing man Didier Miguel. No-one was uncomfortable on the lengthy journey down to Vereeniging – a factor which counts heavily in making the new Subaru WRX rank highly as a daily driver.

The interior also boasts a turbo boost gauge, leather flat-bottomed steering wheel and carbon fibre touches in the cabin. Soft plastics have been used extensively and you get the impression you’re in a premium product – something which Subarus have been marked down for in the past.

Standard equipment

Specification is generous and the new Subaru WRX comes with automatic wipers, daytime-running lights, sunroof, automatic headlights, keyless access, start button, reverse camera, audio system with Bluetooth/aux/usb connectivity and a comprehensive trip computer.

Digging into the options brochure returned only three results: STI body kit, satellite navigation and a locally-sourced sports exhaust. The optional sports exhaust adds some pleasant noises and I think is worth a tick.

Driving impression

How’s it like to drive? I was rather fond of the old Subaru WRX and its bashful, hands-on nature, but it desperately needed a sixth gear. The new car has grown up and the boy-racer in me was a little disappointed in the initial experience. Only under hard acceleration and enthusiastic driving did the stereotypical Subaru elements make themselves known. Underneath the bonnet is an all-new 2.0-litre flat four turbocharged engine with 197 kW and 350 Nm which is refined and quiet. Could it be too quiet? Possibly…

There’s a subtle rumble from the engine which builds into a terrific noise as the revs climb. Each gearshift, through the six-speed manual, results in a delicious Subaru-esque pop out the back which puts a nice smile on your face. The model I drove had an optional sports exhaust, which helps with the audio theatrics. Handling is very good and the car’s agility easily surpasses its rivals, which is exactly what I expected.

Lineartronic

There’s also a CVT-equipped version, which despite the marketing, doesn’t quite offer the same levels of involvement as the manual. But, I’ll put my head on the chopping block here, as I’d recommend it if you routinely find yourself in thick traffic. The transmission isn’t bad in the slightest, but it does slightly blunt the performance which is reflected in the claimed performance figures (0-100km/h takes six seconds in the manual, whereas the Lineartronic takes 6.3)

If you’re an enthusiastic driver who enjoys shifting his/her own gears, go for the manual. If you’re after comfort and refinement, then Lineartronic is worth investigating.

Conclusion and summary

Then theres that price. Unlike many car manufacturers which blatantly jump the price of a new model, Subaru Southern Africa has kept the pricing on par with the old car. Despite import duty, inflation and other horrible factors, it’s astounding to see a manufacturer willing to go the extra mile to keep customers happy. I think we’re going to have a case where demand far exceeds supply, which is a nice problem to have.

For the money, you’re getting a well-equipped, spacious, practical (massive boot) and quick family sedan – exactly what a Subaru WRX should be. It’s very well priced considering something like the Audi S3 sedan retails for considerably more, yet doesn’t quite offer the same levels of practicality and standard equipment.

Subaru WRX Price in South Africa

The Subaru WRX Premium comes in at R449 000, while the Lineartronic retails for R469 000. Both derivatives come standard with a three-year or 100 000 km warranty and three-year or 75 000 km maintenance plan, which can be extended at purchase. Service intervals are every 15 000 km.

New Nissan Pulsar Officially Revealed

Nissan has officially revealed the Pulsar five-door hatchback which it claims is more frugal and higher-tech than its hatchback rivals.

Impressive cabin space

The five-seat Pulsar hatchback shares its 2 700 mm wheelbase with the larger seven-seat X-Trail however comes in 255 mm shorter than the SUV, at 4 385 mm.

Set on to take segment leaders such as the Volkswagen Golf, Nissan’s all-new Euro-spec Pulsar is additionally characterised by bold wheel volumes, a tapered waistline and a flowing profile.

Powerful drivetrains

Keeping with Nissans approach to innovation and reduced costs for owners, the new Pulsar is fitted with a base 1.2 DIG-T petrol engine with 84 kW, which will be joined by a more powerful 139 kW 1.6-litre unit early next year.

Upon launch there will also be a 1.5 dCi diesel engine generating 80 kW and 260 Nm of torque with CO2 emissions of 95 g/km.

All engines come equipped with a 6-speed manual gearbox and an optional CVT. Also on offer is Nissan’s advanced XTronic automatic transmission.

Advanced technologies

The new Nissan Pulsar is packed with a range of new-to-segment technologies and safety systems including blind spot warning, lane departure warning, moving object detection and forward emergency braking. It also boasts the second-generation NissanConnect system offering smartphone integration and access to a wide variety of apps.

Another advanced technology integrated into the Pulsar’s design are LED headlamps. First introduced to the Nissan range on the Qashqai and X-Trail, the Pulsar’s distinctive LED front lights produce a crisp, white light and have the added advantage of using 50 per cent less power than conventional bulbs.

It’s yet to be confirmed whether the new Nissan Pulsar model will be available in South Africa.

Jaguar XF Upgraded With New Technology

Jaguar is now offering the XF model with a host of new ground-breaking technological features.

The Jaguar XF is now equipped with lane guidance and historical traffic information as well as Extended Navigation with additional convenience features such as Rear Park Aid for Luxury derivatives, and Reverse park camera for Premium Luxury derivatives.

The executive upgrade comes with two refreshed packages. The aerodynamic package adds a revised front bumper, black grille with chrome sound, body coloured rear valance and R Style side sills. Available as a standalone or an addition to the aerodynamic pack, the Black package features gloss black side window surrounds, black grille/grille surround and black boot lid garnish.

The boot lip spoiler is available standard on the 3.0-litre diesel and petrol engines, and is optional on both the 2.2-litre petrol and diesel models.

For the interior, Premium Luxury models can be enhanced with the Sport Pack which comprises of heated and cooled front seats in soft grain leather, bright stainless steel pedals, and Jet Morzine treatment for the headlining and the roof pillars.

There are four engines available if you were wondering what’s powering these British sedans. There’s two petrol engines (a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol with 177 kW, as well as the supercharged 3.0-litre V6 with 250 kW and 450 Nm) and two diesel engines (2.2-litre four-cylinder and 3.0-litre V6). For the performance fanatics, there’s the blistering XFR-S with 405 kW and the 375 kW XFR.

Pricing details to follow soon.

Limited Edition Nissan NP200 Loaded Launched In SA

Nissan has introduced a new limited edition NP200 Loaded packed with a number of distinctive and sporty upgrades.

Value-adding upgrades

The dual purpose vehicle features an 800 kg payload, a standard rubberised load box (1 250 litres) and a specially-designed tailgate which can handle 300 kg.

It also comes exclusively in white and features stainless-steel nudge and sports bars, black roof rails, a black tonneau cover and special alloy rims. Theres also special LOADED branding which incorporates silver and red accents in the decals, carpets and seats.

The cabin is fitted with full leather upholstery, a front-loading CD/MP3/WMA/radio/USB/aux and Bluetooth-enabled audio system, special black carpets, remote central locking, air conditioning, and a safety package including ABS and dual airbags.

In the IPSOS product quality research survey, the NP200 was awarded the Overall Satisfaction title for its segment, two years in a row. The revered Kinsey report also points out that parts pricing is a very strong NP200 trait, commented Isa Giunta, NP200 Product Manager at Nissan South Africa.

In addition, the NP200 builds on the legendary reliability and strong South African ties created by its forebear, the Nissan 1400 Bakkie.

Nissan NP200 Loaded price in South Africa

Nissan NP200 1.6 Loaded R166 500

Prices include a six-year or 150 000km warranty.