Lexus is pulling out the big guns at the 2013 Johannesburg International Motor Show (JIMS) with the impressive LFA supercar donning the floor in all its glory. The Lexus LFA, with its striking good looks and brute power is just one of many highlights not to be missed at the 2013 JIMS which is opens to the public from the 18-27 October 2013.
Lexus LFA supercar is powerful and fast
Powering the beast that is the Lexus LFA is a naturally aspirated 4.8-litre V10 that delivers a whopping 412kW at 8 700rpm while maximum torque output is 480Nm at 7 000rpm, not shabby by any means. All this power translates into blistering fast speed on the road and the Lexus LFA is able to accelerate from standstill to 100km/h in only 3.7 seconds before smashing a top speed of 325km/h. These impressive performance figures are made possible with the use of a 6-speed automated sequential gearbox.
Striking exterior design
If there is one thing Lexus aced, it’s the exterior styling of the Lexus LFA supercar. Light and built for speed, engineers decided to extensively use Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) in the construction of the chassis and bodywork. The body features numerous air scoops, ports and air intakes which enhance the necessary airflow to maintain overall performance of the vehicle. The active rear wing with a Gurney flap is put to use at higher speeds to increase stability and adds racy appeal to the overall exterior design.
Luxury and performance meet in the interior
True to the Lexus name, the LFA supercar offers luxury at its very best. Being a supercar though, the LFA’s interior also reflects a sophisticated and performance orientated design that matches the overall persona of the LFA supercar. The cabin is finished in high quality materials including hand-stitched leather seats, carbon fibre elements and metallic finishes that creates a pleasant acomfortable interior for just about any driver.
Lexus LFA supercar gallery
Mercedes Benz SLS AMG Black Series Lands In South Africa
Unveiled at the Los Angeles Motor Show last November, the unrivalled Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series has landed in SA looking as fresh as ever in AMG solar beam exterior paint and optimised bucket tappets featuring a special coating which is otherwise exclusive to racing vehicles.
The Black Series model currently on show at the Johannesburg International Motor Show, is described by Mercedes-Benz as a spiritual successor to the 300SL Gullwing, and more than that, its packed with performance upgrades that resonate with its aggresive looks.
GT3-inspired body kit
The Black Series is further distinguished by an aerodynamic body kit that includes new bumpers, revised side skirts, flared fenders and a rear diffuser. The model also has darkened headlamps and black surrounds for the rear lights, carbon inserts in the side sills and the rear apron made of carbon fibre as well as 19- / 20-inch wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres.
Power comes from a 6.2-liter V8 engine equipped with a fully revised high-speed valve train with modified camshafts, adapted cam geometry and optimized bucket tappets featuring a special coating that is typically used on race vehicles. This allows the engine to develop 464kW of power and 634Nm of torque. Its connection to a seven-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT dual-clutch transmission enables the supercar to sprint from 0-60 km/h in 3.5 seconds and hit a top speed of 315 km/h.
Other highlights include a carbon fibre torque tube, a CFRP drive shaft and a lightweight lithium-ion battery, rear aerofoil braced by aluminium elements on a special insert on the boot lid, and additional carbon-fibre flics on the front apron.
Click the link to read our detailed article on the Mercedes Benz SLS AMG Black Series and check out the full gallery from the motor show below.
Mercedes Benz SLS AMG Black Series gallery
Ford Evos Concept Gallery from 2013 JIMS
The Ford Evos Concept is on display at the 2013 Johannesburg International Motor Show (JIMS) which opens to the public on 18-27 October. Check out the gallery of images of the Ford Evos Concept at the JIMS below or read more about the Ford Evos here.
Ford Evos Concept Gallery
BMW i3 and i8 take green to a new level at the JIMS
BMW is showcasing the i3 electric city vehicle and the i8 plug-in hybrid at the Johannesburg International Motor Show (JIMS). Both vehicles are expected to be launched in South Africa in 2014.
Green Power for i3 and i8
The BMW i3, also known as the Megacity Vehicle, is fully electric and powered by an electric motor that generates a power output of 125kW and 250Nm of torque. That is enough to achieve 100km/h in 7.2 seconds while capable of cruising at an eco-friendly top speed of 150km/h. The 18.8kWh lithium-ion battery allows for a absolute maximum range of 190km, which in reality is about 160km.
Fast charging takes approximately 30 minutes to restore 80% of battery life while normal charging will take anywhere between six to eight hours. A range extender model, fitted with a 25kW petrol engine, will also be offered, which will see the range increase to 300km.
The BMW i8 plug-in hybrid sports car on the other hand is more performance orientated and comes fitted with both an electric motor (96kW/250Nm) and a combustion engine (170kW/320Nm) which combine to deliver a system output of 266kW. In full electric mode, the i8 can reach a top speed of 120km/h, or with the help of the combustion engine, 250km/h is attainable.
With both motors at work acceleration to 100km/h is achieved in an impressive 4.4 seconds. The i8’s electric range is 35km with a maximum combined total range of more than 500km. Fuel consumption for the i8 is rated at 2.5-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of only 59g/km.
Exterior design is fresh and modern
Both the i3 and i8 feature bold exterior styling that reinterprets the meaning of modern luxury. The passenger cell of the i3 is made of carbon fibre while sustainable yet high quality materials are used throughout making it a serious green runner for urban environments. The i8 stands low and wide and has the undeniable look of a sports car, while its proportions serve to deliver optimal performance.
The Johannesburg International Motor Show (JIMS) runs from 18-27 October 2013 at the Johannesburg Expo Centre in Nasrec.
BMW i3 & i8 Gallery from JIMS
Check out the gallery of the BMW i3 and i8 below.
Renault Duster Detour concept unveiled at JIMS
Following hot on the heels of the recent launch of the Renault Duster in South Africa, the Johannesburg Motor Show (JIMS) set the scene for officially unveiling the Renault Duster Detour concept – which is the result of a collaboration between Renault Design Central Europe and a South African design studio.
Duster Detour design for wild at heart
Renault describes its Duster Detour concept as having a hint of 'Mad Max and a touch of the Termitator' with its two-tone 'Pearl Yellow' and Matt Grey exterior. A touch of Dakar influence can also be seen in the 18-inch customised alloy wheels which are fitted with all terrain tyres in widened wheel arches. “We’ve had an enormous amount of fun in integrating the key design equipment and eye-catching elements that have gone in to making up the Renault Duster Détour” says Geoffrey Gardiner, Director at Renault Design Central Europe. Check out some images of the Renault Duster Detour Concept at the Johannesburg International Motor Show.
Mercedes Benz CLA now available in South Africa after JIMS reveal
The Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class will be available in South Africa as of tomorrow, 17 October 2013. The announcement comes after the company’s press conference held at the 2013 Johannesburg International Motor Show (JIMS).
The Mercedes Benz CLA stood alongside the exciting new S-Class and the GLA which were also unveiled ahead of the official opening of the show. The South African Mercedes Benz CLA range will consist of the CLA180, the CLA200, the CLA 220 CDI and the all-powerful CLA45 AMG. The Johannesburg International Motor Show is open to the public from 18-27 October 2013.
Mercedes Benz CLA Price
Mercedes-Benz CLA180 – R348 700
Mercedes-Benz CLA200 – R372 700
Mercedes-Benz CLA220 CDI – R397 600
Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG – R674 400
Mercedes-Benz JIMS Gallery
Here are some images taken at the Mercedes-Benz stand at the 2013 Johannesburg International Motor Show.
Hyundai Genesis Coupe Concept Teased
Hyundai has teamed up with tuner John Pangilinan to develop their fourth instalment, the striking Atlantis Blue JP Edition Genesis Coupe bound for this years SEMA show in Las Vegas.
Powertrain and Chassis
Clothed in a striking Atlantis Blue exterior paint, the Hyundai Genesis Coupe Concept has been modified with a number of performance parts. These include an AEM cold air intake, turbo downpipe and performance exhaust. A coil-over suspension, sway bars and performance strut bar are said to improve handling while lowering ride height.
Filling the wheel wells are 19-inch MORR VS52 concave mono-forged wheels in mystic black, with Toyo Proxes T1R tyres and a Brembo brake kit with 15-inch callipers. The car is also fitted with LED infused headlights, ultra wide metal fender flares, carbon fibre components and custom graphics.
Interior design
Inside the cabin you expect to see Recaro Cross Sportster seats with Katzkin suede and leather upholstery. An Alpine audio system with a long list of aftermarket parts including a pair of 10-inch subwoofers, a new head unit and speakers. Theres also a GoPro Hero 3 video camera mounted inside the car to capture in-car footage.
The eye-grabbing Hyundai Genesis Coupe concept will debut at the 2013 SEMA show in Las Vegas, November 5-8.
The 2013 Johannesburg International Motor Show Preview
The 2013 Johannesburg International Motor Show gets underway this week, and the event promises much excitement in the form of new products, incredible tech and entertainment. The show takes place at the NASREC showgrounds near Soccer City in the south of Johannesburg from the 18-27th October 2013.
Lets take a look at a few of the manufacturers products which will be shown off this week.
BMW
The flagship on the BMW stand will be the little i3 electric car, which goes on sale on 2014. The all-new 4-Series coupe will be present, as well as its five-door sibling 3-Series. The 3GT makes an appearance and all the petrolheads will be thrilled to see the M135i, M5 and M6 Gran Coupe with the competition package fitted. For the convertible fans, the new Z4 makes an appearance, while the flagship eco limo ActiveHybrid 7 rounds off the products.
GWM
Its no secret that the Chinese are here to stay, and spearheading the brand offensive is Great Wall Motors, who will be using the show to introduce its range of no fewer than 13 models, which is quite something. Youll be able to see the latest Steed bakkies, the C20R crossover hatchback, refreshed H5 as well as new vehicles like the C30, C50, M4 and H6.
General Motors (Chevrolet, Opel, and Isuzu)
Chev is one of those brands that always has tricks up its sleeve when it comes to local motor shows. The Sonic RS adds some performance zest to the range, theres a facelifted Trailblazer, facelifted Cruze hatch and Chevrolet has let slip that therell be a hot model unveiled. Rumours suggest its either a monster version of the Lumina, or a Corvette.
Opel will also have prominence this year, with the Corsa OPC Nurburgring Edition, Corsa Turbo and Astra OPC keeping the racers happy. The practical Meriva, Astra sedan and two surprise concepts make this a cool stand to visit.
Finally Isuzu will have its entire range of KB bakkies on display. Showgoers will have the opportunity to try out these tough trucks on the offroad circuit.
Hyundai
The Korean giants are taking JIMS very seriously and will be showing off a whole host of new products. Headlining the stand will be the Veloster Turbo a fast and dynamic coupe which offers performance and outrageous looks. Youll also be able to see the brands entire product line-up, which ranges from the i10 city car to the executive Sonata.
Ford
Ford will have its product range on display ranging from the Figo to the mighty Everest. Therell be the ST performance vehicles, while the Evos concept provides an interesting look at where Ford is headed in terms of design and thinking.
Kia
The Koreans will be out in full force and has a host of models on display at this years show. The main attraction will be the Cerato range which will comprise the sedan, the coupe and the new hatchback. The coupe or Koup will keep the performance-hungry critics happy with its 152kW turbo motor.
Lexus
The main drawcard to the Lexus stand will be its hypercar, the LFA. This V10-powered monster is breathtaking to see and will have onlookers in awe. A big point of interest will be the ES 250 a luxury sedan which offers extensive levels of specification as well as unrivalled value for money. You can expect a surprise concept too.
Mercedes-Benz
The German giant has some massive firepower on its stand thanks to the awesome SLS Black Series as well as the entire AMG range. The flagship S-Class will also make an appearance and this incredible vehicle is brimming with technology.
MG
British carmaker MG which is now owned by the Chinese, will be using the Johannesburg International Motor Show to show off its all-new MG3.
Renault
The French are back this year, and the newly-launched Duster forms an integral part of the display. Therell be the butch Duster Detour an incredible looking concept. Renault will also be showing off its RenaultSport flagship, the RB8 Megane.
Peugeot
Peugeot will be showing off its 2008 small crossover, as well as the mighty RCZ-R, which has some serious performance. You will also be able to see the pocket-rocket 208 GTI.
Toyota
The Japanese brand will have one of the bigger stands at this years show and will take the opportunity to show off its entire range. No fewer than 18 cars will be shown and these include the Toyota Dakar Hilux and the Yaris rally car. Favourites such as the 86 sportscar, Aygo, FJ Cruiser and Rav4 also make an appearance. One big scoop is that the convertible version of the 86 will be there and this looks like a sure-fire winner. Finally, the TS030 Hybrid Le Mans racer will provide proof that racing can be green. You can expect the brand to have a few surprises and you can sample the Toyota offroaders at the 4×4 course.
The Johannesburg International Motor Show at the Expo Centre, Nasrec will have something for everyone. The gallery below shows some of the cars you will have the pleasure of seeing live. Doors open to the public on Friday 18 October and the show runs until Sunday 27 October.
Johannesburg International Motor Show gallery
GWM C30 And C50 Models Set To Take On The SA Sedan Market
The Johannesburg International Motor Show will no doubt have its fair share of show stoppers, and GWM looks set to make that list with its C30 and C50 sedan models.
Both models will be the first four-door sedans to be offered locally by GWM and will likely make their official debuts in South Africa early in 2014.
The sophisticated C50
The GWM C50 is all about bold, dynamic and sleek looks, and with an extended 2700mm wheelbase, the model offers class-leading passenger space that rivals that on offer from segment leaders.
Two trim levels will be available in South Africa, both offering air-conditioning, power steering, electric windows and mirrors, as well as comprehensive infotainment systems. South African specification will include piano black and chrome detailing with the flagship model featuring cruise control and rear park sensors.
Power will come from a new GWG15T 1.5-litre turbocharged engine that delivers 98kW at 5 600 rpm and 188Nm of torque from 2 000 4 500 rpm.
The neatly styled C30
The C30 rides on a stretched 2610mm wheelbase which results in a spacious cabin and one of the largest boots (510 litres) in its segment. The C30 features chiselled, Germanic lines, 15-inch alloy wheels and front and rear fog lamps. Emphasis on stretch-out space and modern convenience come across in the interior, which is further equipped with air-conditioning, power steering, electric windows all-round, electric mirror adjustment, radio/CD/MP3 player with USB and auxiliary support and a rake-adjustable steering wheel.
The same 1.5-litre engine used in the GWM C20R powers the C30 compact B-segment sedan. This VVT-I engine produces 77kW and 138 Nm of torque, with a combined cycle fuel consumption figure of 6.5-litre/100 km and powers the car to a 170 km/h top speed.
Safety is also well catered for with the inclusion of dual front airbags and disc brakes all-round backed by ABS with EBD. Isofix child-seat mountings are fitted at the rear.
These models will join a rapidly expanding GWM line-up, which will also soon include the H6 soft-roader and M4 crossover. In total, GWM will showcase 13 cars at JIMS.
GWM C30 and C50 gallery
Nissan Juke Nismo RS Revealed
Nissan officially introduced the 2013 Juke Nismo earlier this year at the Chicago Auto Show. And now, after months of speculation, its been confirmed that the Japanese automaker will celebrate its world debut of the high performance Juke Nismo RS at the Los Angeles Auto Show.
The Juke Nismo RS comes with enhanced performance
There is still no definitive word as to what the Juke Nismo RS package will include. However, reports suggest that it will be fitted with a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with approximately 169kW and 298Nm of torque. It will also be reportedly offered with front-wheel drive and a six-speed manual transmission or all-wheel drive with a continuously variable transmission.
Its further indicated that the model will be a sporty crossover with a sport-tuned suspension, new springs and shock absorbers as well as unique damping rates.
The Juke Nismo RS will be shown alongside another Nismo concept but it remains unclear what it is. We will keep you informed on any developments.
Note: pictured above is the 2013 Nissan Juke Nismo not the RS variant.
