Boxing King Floyd Mayweather’s Epic Car Collection
Living legend, or criminal? Having just spent a year in jail, many sports fans have a love-hate relationship with Floyd Money Mayweather. But one aspect of his larger-than-life lifestyle that any car lover can appreciate is his car collection.
The undefeated boxer, who retained his record of no losses by beating Mexican Canelo Alvarez this weekend, and who has already earned over $90 million in 2013, showed off his insane car collection to Showtime series All Access (video below). A rather cheeky Mayweather says this is “just his Vegas collection”, which boasts iconic vehicles from Rolls-Royce, Bugatti, Ferrari, and Lamborghini.
Floyd took home $41 million this weekend from his victorious fight, and this was his car collection before he won the money.
And last but not least, his favourite, a 1996 V12 Mercedes-Benz 600. He also has collections in Los Angeles and Miami.
Funky 2014 Kia Soul On Its Way To South Africa
Months after a mysterious rendering was leaked on the web, South Korean automaker Kia publicly introduced its brand new second generation 2014 Soul at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Kia South Africa confirmed to us that the model will be launched locally in the first quarter of 2014.
The all-new 2014 Kia Soul is said to provide improved ride and handling, increased interior and luggage space, reduced CO2 emissions, and comes in a funky new design as well as three different roof colours and up to 11 exterior paint finishes.
High levels of specification and customisation
Designed to look rougher, the second generation 2014 Kia Soul package includes piano black paint on the bumpers, wheel arches and side skirts to create the illusion of plastic body cladding.
Other new premium features include front LED lights and rear LED halo lights, HID headlights, keyless entry and push-button engine start, automatic climate control air-conditioning, cruise control, leather seat trim, ventilated front seats, heated front and rear seats, panoramic glass sunroof and heated exterior mirrors.
Improved ride and handling
No figures have yet been released; however the new crossover is equipped with a 1.6-litre petrol and CRDi diesel engine from the previous generation, but with improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions, as well as six-speed manual and automatic transmissions.
The SUV aims to be the best in its class for refinement, a result of the car’s upgraded suspension, 29 per cent stiffer bodyshell and comprehensive soundproofing. Interior noise levels are reduced by approximately three decibels.
2014 Kia Soul Gallery
Opel Monza Concept Unveiled – Complete Gallery
Following the online debut last month, the four-seat coupe plug-in hybrid Opel Monza Concept with gullwing doors was publicly unveiled at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show.
Modular design for powertrain diversity
Unlike the Opel Monza of the 1980s, the new concept shares the same basic plug-in hybrid setup as the Chevrolet Volt but uses a turbocharged 1-liter 3-cylinder SIDI Turbo engine, which combines an electric motor with a compressed natural gas (CNG) range extender.
Futuristic Styling
The Monza concept serves as a preview for a new styling direction and has been designed with the main idea of “ocean waves lapping on the shore”. Its 1.31 metre height offers plenty of passenger and luggage space thanks to its airy design and low, slim-sculpted seats.
Opening the gullwing doors reveals a sculptured dashboard used as a single projection surface, and uses 18 LED projectors to create a continuous, adaptable multifunctional display, replacing the traditional screens.
“The Monza Concept is nothing less than our vision of the automotive future”, says Opel CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann. According to Opel, this concept is the role-model for the next generation of Opel cars, and because of its modular chassis design, future cars based on it would be able to accommodate gasoline, diesel or electric power. Check out the complete gallery bellow.
Opel Monza Concept Gallery
Frankfurt Highlights – Our Top 10
The enormity that is the Frankfurt Motor Show, or IAA, is hard to grasp. There is so much that happens there in just a few days, and to help you make sense of it all, we’ve put together our Frankfurt highlights.
It is arguably the most important on the calendar for the motoring industry, and the stats reflect that:
– Held in 12 buildings
– Covers over 250 000 square metres, or 35 professional soccer fields
– Over 1000 exhibitors
– Over 1 million visitors
– Hosts 12 000 journalists from 100 countries
This year was no exception, and the world’s motoring public has been treated to some exciting and important new cars. As the press days give way to the public days, here’s a summary of our coverage of this year’s Frankfurt show, in no particular order.
Frankfurt Highlights 2013
2014 Nissan X-Trail Revealed
Nissan’s popular “small” 4×4 has been overhauled completely and now sports a more luxurious look and interior. Full info and gallery at the link.
2014 Hyundai i10 Launched
The popular compact Korean has been updated completely for 2014, and looks to cement its place in the budget arena. New looks make it more mature, while luxury features from more expensive models will filter down.
Mercedes Benzs Striking New S Class Coupe Concept
Following the launch of the rather impressive S-Class, Mercedes has unveiled plans for the S Class Coupe. We can only hope the production version, scheduled for 2015, looks something like this.
2014 Audi A3 Cabriolet completes the A3 family
Audi are building some seriously pretty cars lately, and the A3 is no exception. One of our favourite premium hatches now comes in convertible form. The first A3 had it’s problems, which Audi has tried to resolve with the latest model.
Audi Nanuk Quattro Concept Surprise Debut
Sometimes car makers just need to get a fantasy out in the open. A turbodiesel V10 4×4 supercar? Why not. In an age of internet leaks, Audi somehow managed to keep this one under wraps right up until the show.
Jaguar C-X17 Concept
Jaguar is wading into the SUV arena in a bid to go mainstream. Ahead of launching a 3-Series/C-Class rival, the brand launched this, a handsome new SUV with all the Jaguar styling cues you’d expect.
BMW i8 Production Spec
After years of teasing, BMW finally release the production spec version of its hybrid supercar, the i8. It looks dramatic, has retained its winged doors and promises exceptional fuel consumption and performance. We can’t wait to see them on the roads.
The New Porsche 918 Spyder
Porsche’s take on the burgeoning era of performance hybrids, the 918, has proved that it as good as it looks, by claiming the Nurburgring production car lap time. But just look at that price tag…Even so, the 918 is an important car, and we explain why.
Volvo Concept Coupe
It’s being touted as a homage to the classic P1800, but Chinese-owned Volvo is most likely showing how it plans to take on the premium segment in China. Either way, it’s an exciting car from a historically sober manufacturer.
2014 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado Coming to South Africa
In a country like South Africa, cars like the Land Cruiser Prado offer almost everything the outdoors-minded motorist might want. The 2014 model promises to be even better. We’ve got a full gallery and all info at the link.
2014 Nissan X-trail Revealed
The all-new 2014 Nissan X-Trail revealed in Frankfurt this week deviates from the previous generation’s design, incorporating styling cues from the Juke, Murano, and Patrol.
Reduced rugged looks
The fifth compact crossover SUV produced by the Japanese automaker is currently being assembled in Tennessee, and is the first vehicle to be built on the jointly developed Nissan/Renault Common Module Family platform architecture.
The rugged looks have been replaced by premium styling with sculptured muscular lines, boomerang taillights and modern 19-inch alloy wheels. There is mention that the upper-spec models will be equipped with full LED headlights and daytime running lights. In comparison to its predecessor, the 2014 Nissan X-Trail has a 0.6-inch longer wheelbase and is 1.2-inches taller, while the front overhang has been reduced by 1.5 inches.
Premium executive styling
The premium and dynamic appearance is continued into the interior which is blended with chrome, geometric metallic and piano black finishes. And a theatre-style seating arrangement and optional cloth fabric covering plus a full leather offering with contrasting stitch accents. There is also the possibility to order two extra seats for a seven-seat layout.
The 2014 Nissan X-Trail’s rear doors open to almost 80 degrees which enable easy access inside the cabin. The middle row seat has been enhanced with additional knee room thanks to the elongated wheelbase. The third row of seats can be folded forward to increase luggage capacity, whereas the middle row can recline and slide.
Technological enhancements include the latest generation NissanConnect in-car navigation, information and entertainment system. Drivers will also benefit from a comprehensive suite of assistance features that make up the X-Trail’s Nissan Safety Shield system, and the All-Mode 4x4i system controllable by using a rotary switch installed on the centre console. The driver gets to choose between 2WD, Auto mode or Lock which offers permanent four-wheel drive.
New Nissan X-Trail with Active Ride Control
The 2014 Nissan X-Trail also boasts Active Ride Control which monitors the road surface to detect undulations, and Active Engine Brake that harnesses the power and controllability of the Xtronic transmission to add a degree of engine braking while cornering or when decelerating to a standstill.
Nissan further fitted the new X-Trail with Active Trace Control comprising an on-board sensor monitoring speed, steering angle, throttle opening and braking effort to brake the wheels individually as a method of reducing understeer.
Details about the engine lineup will be disclosed closer to the car’s market launch.
2014 Nissan X-Trail Gallery
2014 Hyundai i10 launched – full gallery and more specs
Hyundai has released full details of the entry level 2014 Hyundai i10 which according to the Korean automaker is a significant step forward from the old one.
Engine and transmissions
As suspected last month when the 2014 Hyundai i10 first appeared, the automaker will be using the regular three and four cylinder engine options.
Three different engines are on offer: a 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol delivering 48 kW and 94 Nm of torque, a 1.0-litre three-cylinder bi-fuel producing 49kW and 90Nm of torque (on LPG), and a 1.2-litre four-cylinder petrol engine delivering 64kW of power and 120Nm of torque.
Depending on which engine is selected, it can be paired to a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission.
Increased dimensions
The 2014 Hyundai i10 goes from being the narrowest model in the A-segment to the widest at 16660 mm and having a fluidic sculpture design with a stylish front fascia complimented by sweptback headlights, a prominent air intake, and a sloping roofline.
The i10 is equipped with a range of active and passive safety features that ensure maximum protection for occupants and pedestrians. These include power windows/locks, automatic climate control, heated front seats and six air bags.
2014 Hyundai i10 Gallery
Mercedes Benz’s Striking New S Class Coupe Concept
If the technological tour de force that is the new S Class is a bit too standard for you, in 2015 Mercedes Benz will be able to sell you a two door version of their flagship sedan. And if it looks anything like this striking new S Class Coupe Concept unveiled at Frankfurt, it will be an absolute gem.
Name Change Explained
The S Class Coupe Concept will pick up where the outgoing CL Coupe leaves off, as Mercedes reshuffles its naming system in a bid to make things a bit more structured. The new CLA will be a sedan version of the A Class, so having a large S Class based coupe called the CL just wouldn’t make any sense
Same Tech, Less Doors
The new S Class Coupe is magic. No, it really is. There’s a feature called MAGIC BODY CONTROL (yes, the capitals are from Mercedes) which uses two forward facing cameras to detect changing road conditions, and adjusts the suspension accordingly. An army of sensors and radar also use the cameras to provide assistance to the driver, detecting potential hazards up to 500m ahead.
Mercedes S Class Coupe Engine
The concept uses a biturbo V8 from the latest S Class lineup, with a healthy 335kW and 700Nm, which we would guess is the S500 model (S550 in the United States). The long hood suggests there might still be space for a V12 under there and the obligatory batch of AMG models can also be expected.
That’s all the info we have for now. We would speculate on the Mercedes S Class Coupe arriving in South Africa in late 2015.
Mercedes Benz’s Striking New S Class Coupe Concept Image Gallery
2014 Audi A3 Cabriolet completes the A3 family
Audi topped off their A3 range with the debut of the 2014 A3 Cabriolet in Frankfurt. Drawing inspiration from the new Audi A3 Saloon, the Cabriolet will reach customers in 2014 with three engine options.
Three engines at launch
At launch, the 2014 Audi A3 Cabriolet will be three engines – a 1.4 TFSI petrol engine producing 103 kW, followed by a 1.8 TFSI with 132 kW and a 2.0 TDI delivering 110 kW.
Audi will also offer other engines ranging from a 1.6 TDI with 81kW and a 2.0 TFSI with 224kW. The latter will power the S3 Cabriolet and will come with a 6-speed S tronic which will enable it to reach 100 km/h in 5.4 seconds.
Audi A3’s elctro-hydraulic soft top
Larger and lighter than the outgoing model, the all-new A3 Cabriolet has a automatic fabric roof that opens and closes hydraulically in less than 18 seconds and is fully concealed from view when retracted. The soft-top can also be replaced with an optional “acoustic top” which will diminish interior cabin noise with help from a thicker inner foam layer.
The front of the 2014 Audi A3 Cabriolet is characterised by the single frame radiator grille, which is flanked by flat headlamps that can light the way using either halogen or xenon bulbs depending on version, or using optional LED headlamp technology.
The rear features a windscreen frame made of aluminium and an aluminum-look trim strip that runs around the roof aperture. On the flanks, the design features a taut tornado line and contoured surfaces that take full advantage of light and shadow.
Is the new version better than the outgoing A3 Cabriolet? Take a good look at the complete gallery bellow and let us know.
2014 Audi A3 Cabriolet Gallery
Honda Confirms Next Civic Type R Engine
It’s still two years until we’ll be able to get our hands on the next Honda hot hatch, but if these photos and specs are anything to go by, we’re in for a cracker in 2015. In the meantime, Honda has confirmed the next Civic Type R engine.
Honda has not been shy about their ambitions – they want the next Type R to be the fastest front-wheel drive car around the Nurburgring. That country road is car hell, driver’s dream and car maker’s paradise, as they tune their cars in a relentless quest for the fastest lap.
The next Civic Type R will feature a 2.0 litre turbocharged petrol, with at least 205kW. That sets the car nicely between the rest of the hot hatch bunch. Honda will know that the mark has moved on a bit, especially with cars like the Astra OPC, but our feeling is they will be aiming for a lighter car, which will make better use of the power.
That’s all we have to go on for now. Enjoy the gallery of the camo-Civic hoofing around the ‘Ring, and we’ll keep you posted on any updates.
Image Gallery Next Civic Type R
Range Rover Evoque Si4 Dynamic Coupe AT Review
There are very few cars built in 2011 that still look as futuristic as the Evoque nearly 3 years on. I tested the diesel back in 2012, and wasnt too impressed with the engine, but this time had my hand at the 2.0 litre petrol turbo and things are remarkably different.
Looks and interior
There is no doubting, its a looker. Im not a huge fan of the straight up rear view, which looks like someone sat on a Range Rover Sport, but from every other angle, especially in the sexier coupe (3-door), its so unique. In dynamic spec it looks more sporty, with chrome running strip up front and black grille.
The interior even more so, fitted with red sports seats from team Jaguar, brushed aluminum, and the cossetted driving position, you feel more sports car then SUV. That does mean its tight in the back, but you knew that because its the 3-door with a sloping roofline. The panoramic sunroof is a must.
The materials, leather stitched dash and everything else is exceptional Range Rover quality. Theres even adaptive lighting which ads a special mood. What is not quite nice is the archaic multimedia touch screen familiar to Range Rover. Its slow and antiquated and starts up like a Windows PC circa 2001. Surely, if everything else is SO good, how can this be so bad?
The Drive
True to the name, its a Dynamic drive indeed. To keep very limited body roll, the adaptive dampers (standard on dynamic model), can allow very little wheel travel, and stiffen things up quite a bit. In dynamic mode (firmer damps, sportier shifts from the gearbox and sharper responses) there is near-no body roll when tackling corners, and you can feel the power shifting around between front and rear and stability control doing its thing.
That said, the rear crashes a bit over bumps, but otherwise its a sublime ride on everything else. Its firm, but a worthwhile compromise for good on-road dynamics considering. Steering is just right, being weighted enough, while still light when parking.
The Land Rover Terrain Response system works a charm. I only tried it on grass and dry gravel roads with some mounds where it worked well on traction, but the lack of wheel travel and ground clearance does limit it a lot scratching and bumping the undercarriage. That said, its most unlikely that buyers wouldnt even dirty the boot with a potplant.
Engine and gearbox
The 177kW and 340NM two-litre turbo is the best fit with the Evoque. It now goes as well as it looks, clocking 7,6seconds to 100km/h. That isnt going set any records, but does the vehicle justice. Theres a bit of lag and torque converter slip, which I could do without.
Switch into Sport (manual) mode on the 6-speed gearbox, take control using the paddles and youll find a rather rewarding drive with no torque slip on the gearbox, fairly quick shifts up and down, and gasp dials that illuminate in red whilst sport is engaged. It sounds a bit rough at high revs, so a better engine note would be great, but otherwise its a better fit than the sluggish diesel. Fuel consumption did suffer with just around 13litre/100km on average from the 70litre tank with a fair amount of highway driving.
Range Rover Evoque Summary
For the price, the direct competition from Audi and BMW are more powerful, with better gearboxes, better equipped, and definitely have more space. That said, none have the presence and looks of the Evoque. None have the charm and look of the interior, and none turn heads like it does.
Its statement versus functionality, which is why I think the Evoque actually competes against the Audi A5, Mercedes E Coupe and the like. Its a car to be seen in, and is very rarely used for its off-road prowess or functional SUV like abilities. If you can afford it, get the petrol turbo dynamic, because it makes the most of where itll spend most of its time, on the road, and maybe spend a bit customizing the colour and interior to make it a bit more individual than the thousands of others on the road today.
Range Rover Evoque Price in South Africa
Range Rover Evoque Si4 Dynamic Coupe AT R636 700
5yr/100 000km motorplan
Also consider:
For the space
BMX X3 xDrive35i AT 190kW/400NM R658 618 Audi Q5 3,0T Quattro AT 200kW/400NM – R620 000 Volvo XC60 T6 R-Design AT 224kW/440NM – R616 600
