The 2015 Mercedes S600 celebrated its world premiere at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show this week.
The model, designed to be the pinnacle of automotive excellence, is part of the growing S-Class lineup and is available exclusively as a long-wheelbase model equipped with the LED Intelligent Light System.
Top of the range engine
Power comes from a twin-turbo 6.0-litre V12 engine that develops 390 kW and 830 Nm of torque. Mercedes confirmed the model has a start/stop system which enables it to average 11.1-litres/100 km.
Additional features in the new S-Class
Mercedes says a touch pad will be available to control the infotainment system and mimic current smartphone controls. Users will also be able to enter text with handwriting gestures in any language available on the screen.
A head-up display will also be introduced, as well as an updated version of the Collision Prevention Assist currently packaged in the CLA.
Named Collision Prevention Assist Plus, the system is able to brake autonomously at up to 200 km/h. It can also stop the car completely at speeds up to 80 km/h. It can also respond to stationary vehicles at up to 50 km/h and will prevent rear-end collisions at up to 40 km/h.
In addition, there will be an optional heated windshield designed to work in conjunction with the air-conditioning blower and ensures clear forward visibility.
According to Mercedes’ Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Ola Kallenius, “The S-Class has always been the embodiment of our claim to deliver the very best in terms of both technology and design and our flagship model, the S 600, epitomizes the focus of our development work, the ‘Essence of Luxury’, in a way that no other model can.
The S600 will go on sale in March in the US. It is not yet clear when or if the model will be available in South Africa.
2015 Mercedes-Benz S600 gallery
2014 Suzuki Swift Launched In SA
The 2014 model year sees the launch of a refreshed 2014 Suzuki Swift hatchback which has undergone a number of modifications with some enhancements added to the standard specifications.
Upgraded interior features
Improvements to the Swift interior include Bluetooth connectivity which has now been added to the GLS model’s list of standard features. The system not only allows pairing with compatible devices, but also facilitates audio streaming from smartphones and Bluetooth-enabled audio devices.
GLS models also benefit from cruise control, which can be conveniently operated using switchgear located on the steering wheel. The seats of both GL and GLS versions of the updated Swift benefit from a new, more contemporary fabric.
Enhanced exterior features
The exterior features a redesigned grille, new bumper, LED daytime running lights as standard for the GLS models, as well as a new cooling aperture surround for the GL derivative. At the rear, the high-mounted third brake-light is now a brighter LED unit.
There are also redesigned wheel caps for the GL model have been redesigned, a new alloy wheel design for the GLS sports and a new exterior colour – dubbed Luminous Blue Metallic, for the updated range.
Drivetrain
The 2014 Swift range retains the fuel-injected four-cylinder engine. The K14B unit has a rated maximum power output of 70 kW at 6000rpm, coupled to 130 Nm of torque at 4000rpm.
The five-speed manual gearbox also remains. Combined cycle consumption figure according to Suzuki is 5.5-litres/100km with CO2 emissions of 132 g/km.
The GLS Automatic still uses a four-speed self-shifting transmission, and Suzuki says its combined cycle figure is 6.2-litres/100km with CO2 emissions of 147 g/km.
Model range
The 2014 Suzuki Swift is available in two specification grades.
The Swift GL models are equipped with power steering with height-adjustable steering wheel, electric windows front and rear, remote-controlled central locking for the doors and tailgate, and air-conditioning.
They also feature electrically adjustable mirrors, a height-adjustable driver’s seat, front airbags, ABS anti-lock brakes, a multi-function trip computer that displays outside temperature, fuel consumption and driving range.
The Swift GLS offers the choice of a manual or automatic gearbox. The model further features new 16-inch alloy wheels, front fog lights framed by LED daytime running lights, and an adjustable leather-trimmed steering wheel with switchgear for the sound system.
Additional features include dual front, side and curtain airbags, automatic climate control, a USB and keyless operation system functionality.
The 100kW Swift Sport remains largely unchanged, retaining all the exterior and interior features. It does however gain cruise control and Bluetooth functionality introduced to mainstream Swift models, while the relevant switchgear has been added to the Sport’s steering wheel as well.
2014 Suzuki Swift 1.4 GL Manual R165 900
2014 Suzuki Swift 1.4 GLS Manual R186 900
2014 Suzuki Swift 1.4 GLS Auto R201 900
2014 Suzuki Swift 1.6 Sport R223 900
The purchase price includes metallic paint, as well as the Suzuki Complete programme, which covers the full spectrum of after-sales support.
The 2014 Suzuki Swift is covered by a comprehensive three-year/100 000 km warranty, supported by six-year corrosion cover. A three-year/ 60 000 km service plan is standard, as is a three-year AA roadside assistance plan.
2014 Suzuki Swift gallery
2015 Subaru WRX STI Launched
The 2015 Subaru WRX STI has been revealed at the 2014 Detroit Motor Show. The flagship performance model will offer scintillating performance while still retaining elements of practicality. Coupled with its outrageous looks, the Subaru WRX STI looks to carry the legendary name with pride.
Subaru also took the time to show off the WRX STI Launch Edition, seen in the gallery below. This unit is mechanically identical to the STIs South Africa will get, the only difference being the World Rally Blue paint, gold BBS alloy wheels and interior trim.
Engine and handling
Powering the latest version of the WRX STI is a 2.5-litre turbocharged flat-four engine with 224 kW and 393 Nm. Performance in a straight line will be brisk, with the 0-100km/h sprint dispatched in under five seconds. However Subarus have always been about the handling and cornering ability. The latest WRX STI will still be a track demon, thanks to all-wheel drive and rally-pedigree parts such as a stiffer chassis, firmer springs and a faster steering ratio.
The handling technology doesn’t stop there as the electronics wizards have also had a hand in ensuring the new Subaru WRX STI corners exceptionally well. There’s an all-new Active Torque Vectoring system, Multi-Mode Vehicle Dynamics Control as well as the Multi-Mode Drive Controlled Centre Differential, which enables the driver to spread the power bias to either the front or the back wheels. Brembo brakes with Super Sport ABS are fitted as standard.
Interior and features
Inside the 2015 WRX STI there’s plenty of Alcantara leather with red stitching. Subaru claims the cabin is more spacious than its predecessor. There’s a new flat-bottom steering wheel, with new whiplash-reducing front racing seats. For the first time, there’s a Harmon Kardon premium audio system available.
The 2015 WRX STI carries its bold personality inside, where new Alcantara seating surfaces accented by red and black leather bolsters and red stitching set the tone for the upgraded and roomier cabin. A driver-focused interior remains integral to the WRX STI performance character, with the new model debuting a motorsports-inspired flat-bottom steering wheel and new whiplash-reducing performance-design front seats with height and tilt-adjustable head restraints. A wide array of new user technologies include, for the first time in a WRX STI, availability of a harman/kardon® premium audio system.
Standard features include dual-zone automatic climate control and the All-Weather Package (dual-mode heated front seats, heated exterior mirrors and windshield wiper de-icer). The new standard audio system combines AM/FM stereo with HD Radio®, a single-disc in-dash CD player, 6 speakers, MP3/WMA capability, Radio Data Broadcast System (RDBS), Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming, iPod® control capability, iTunes® Tagging, SiriusXM® Satellite Radio (subscription required), USB port and a 3.5mm auxiliary audio input jack. Numerous compartments located in and around the center console hold phones, USB drives and MP3 players.
Subaru South Africa has confirmed the WRX sedan will be here early in June, with the fearsome WRX STI following at a later stage. Sadly the Launch Edition will be for the US market only.
Subaru WRX STI Video
Subaru WRX STI Photo Gallery
Nissan Sport Sedan Concept Officially Unveiled
The covers have been lifted off the Nissan Sport Sedan Concept which is currently on show at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show.
Futuristic aerodynamic styling
As mentioned previously, the Sport Sedan Concept is designed to preview an upcoming production model. It has a “V-Motion” (Nissan’s next -generation design language) front fascia with a chrome grille and is flanked by boomerang-shaped LED headlights.
The concept also has low and wide dimensions, a Strad Amber exterior with a “floating” roof and custom 21-inch aluminium wheels with ultra-wide 275/30R21 tyres.
The two-tone interior features quilted leather seats with diamond shaped graphics, a sport steering wheel and metallic trim, as well as a floating centre stack and a futuristic infotainment system.
Under the hood of the Sedan is a 3.5-litre V6 engine which produces more than 223 kW of power and is connected to a sport-tuned Xtronic continuously variable transmission which sends power to the front wheels.
“Nissan’s design language is our brand promise Innovation and Excitement for Everyone rendered in metal,” said Nissan Senior Vice President and Chief Creative Officer Shiro Nakamura.
“We are continually pushing the envelope, as the Sport Sedan Concept shows. It is a car that is more emotional, more exciting and that provides a strong hint of the design direction we are taking.”
Nissan Sport Sedan Concept gallery
2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Launched
Chevrolet has shown off the ultimate Corvette to the masses at Detroit’s motor show. The 2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 carries on the tradition of being an out-and-out performance supercar which is brimming with technology. The Z06 is claimed to be the most track-capable of all the Corvettes and while its cornering prowess is untested, you can be sure that it’s going to be blisteringly fast in a straight line too. Think of this then as the hardcore and ultimate version of the current generation of Chevrolet Corvette.
2015 Chevrolet Corvette Zo6 engine
Powering the new Chevrolet Corvette Z06 is a monstrous 6.2-litre supercharged V8 motor. Code-named the LT4, this engine pushes out 466 kW and 861 Nm. Chevrolet is clearly targeting all the established supercars on the market with the Z06.
“The new Z06 delivers levels of performance, technology and design that rival the most exotic supercars in the world,” said Mark Reuss, president, General Motors North America. “And the Z06 leverages the engineering expertise of GM, offering the choice of two world-class transmissions, supercar performance without supercar fuel consumption and technologies that make it easier to fully enjoy the incredible experience of driving it.”
At this stage there are no plans to bring the Chevrolet Corvette Z06 to South Africa.
2015 Chevrolet Corvette Zo6 Photo Gallery
Kia GT4 Stinger Concept Introduced in Detroit
The Kia GT4 Stinger Concept has just wowed crowds in Detroit with its eye-catching 2+2 sports coupe design.
Proven performance and a simple powerful design
The South Korean automaker as announced the concept supercar will be fitted with a 4-cylinder, 2.0-litre turbocharged direct-injected T-GDI engine delivering 235 kW of power to the rear wheels through a six-speed close-ratio manual transmission.
Its selfish design incorporates a sculpted Ignition Yellow chassis with independent double wishbone suspension, a shorter wheelbase and a swooping roofline as well as 20-inch centre-locking alloy wheels covered in Pirelli P Zero tyres measuring 235/35 ZR20 on all four corners.
Other notable design features include the vertical LED headlights, flared front fenders, the signature tiger nose grille and along the rocker panels are satin black accent pieces with integrated functional cooling ducts to enhance air flow to the rear brakes. LED technology was also used for the taillights where we also find the dual exhaust arrangement as well as a glass hatch.
Interior features
Inside the minimalistic cabin and you find billet-aluminium door handles with red-stitched pull straps, race-like bucket seats, a flat-bottomed steering wheel and a red LED illuminated panel with large tachometer and gear indicator. Instead a carpet, the Kia GT4 Stinger concept has received a rubber floor mat underneath the billet-aluminium pedals.
There are currently no plans to bring the concept to production, however its rumoured that Kia might have plans for a rear-wheel drive coupe which could turn out to be a more attractive alternative.
Kia GT4 Stinger Concept Video
Kia GT4 Stinger Concept Gallery
Range Rover Autobiography Review And Video
Every car on the road today is very similar, at least in what theyre made from. Some steel, some aluminium, a lot of plastic, a fair whack of rubber, some glass. If you spend a bit more, you get some nice leather and some fluffy carpets. But ultimately, its all the same material, moulded and welded and screwed into various shapes and sizes.
At the luxury end of the market, things get a bit more complicated. Bentleys, for instance, use handcrafted Dark Wattle wood inlays. I dont know what that is, but it looks fantastic. Ferraris only source their leather from one supplier, renowned for quality. Rolls Royce go around shaving lambs for their carpets. Its all very spiffy.
Range Rover Autobiography technology
Theres also an electronic war going on. The Range Rover has a screen that, when looked at from different angles, shows two completely different outputs to driver and passenger. Quite a few cars these days can park themselves. Obviously each rear passenger needs a TV screen, with wireless headphones. And would Sir like a massage on the way home? No problem. The new S Class has four different kinds.
How then, does a car become special? With all the same sort of things available to all the car manufacturers, how does a car rise head and shoulders above the rest? Ive been scratching around in my head, looking for an answer. Because on a few accounts, the Range Rover Autobiography that Ive just driven is not the best car in the world. But, that said, it is the best car in the world. Because of how it makes you feel.
This car has astonishing presence. Every time I see one in traffic, it seems to be gliding through the world as if its here visiting from another planet. It seems to be powered by something ethereal; not a substance as vulgar as diesel.
Ride quality and handling
Driving one is an event. Every time you hop aboard the raised cabin, you feel like youre climbing into something quite special. Picking up friends and relatives is an occasion. I dont think you can be fetched in a Range Rover and not feel just a teeny bit excited. Maybe you can, if your first name is Sheik.
The interior manages to be luxurious, but quite functional, true to its roots as an offroad champ. In that sense, it doesnt feel as ostentatious as a Rolls or Bentley, but is every bit as comfortable.
Autobiography interior
My test unit had Executive Style rear seating, meaning two individual seats with electric recline function, a fridge, a TV each, massage seats and heating and cooling functionality. If you enjoy being chauffeured, it is quite lovely back there. But if this is a school run machine (yes, thats a real thing that happens) then youre better off going for the Range Rover Sport, as the second row is a bench, and it can be fitted with a third row of seats, making it a 7-seater. The big Rangie is a strict 4-seater in the case of the Autobiography spec, or 5 seater in the case of the Vogue spec.
Powerful diesel engine
You have three engines to choose from, a 5.0l supercharged petrol V8, which even Range Rover admits returns 20l/100km on the urban cycle. So if your surname is Royal Dutch Shell, go ahead. Otherwise, youll be much better served by either of the diesels. Theres a smaller 3.0 SDV6 with impressive claimed consumption of 7.5l/100km, and 190kw. But for me, the pick of the bunch is the big 4.4 litre V8 with nearly 700Nm. Its no slouch, cracking the 0 100km/h sprint in just 7 seconds, and still returning an impressive average fuel consumption of under 10l/100km.
The key to the new Range Rover Autobiography is a dramatic weight saving of 420kg. Theyve basically managed to get rid of small to medium sized rhino by making the entire monocoque from aluminium. It dramatically changes the dynamism of the new vehicle. Where the last vehicle felt quite a lot like piloting a bus, the new generation feels almost spritely. Well, as spritely as a car this size could hope to feel.
Range Rover 4×4 ability
With an advanced, terrain-responsive 4×4 system, a variable-height suspension system, crawl functionality, hill descent control, a wading depth of 900mm and impressive power, this could very well be an extremely capable offroad machine, up there with the best of them. I couldnt tell you if it is though, and Im sure most of the cars owners wouldnt be able to either. At R1.78million for the Range Rover Autobiography, who on earth who go properly offroad?
Sure, when you come to the odd gravel road, the big Rangie will eat it up and spit it out with barely a burp. And Id imagine hitting the dunes would be particularly good fun. But beyond that, the urban world is mostly where shell play, and thats where she shines.
Range Rover Autobiography conclusion
And yet, after all this, Im not sure I have an answer to my own question. Why has the Range Rover become an it car? Its easy to label it as one of those cases where a machine is more than the sum of its parts. Declare it unexplainable and walk away.
However, I think I have an answer. Even though the latest generation is almost absurdly luxurious, the Range Rover Autobiography hasnt sold out. It can still get dirty with the best of them. Its handsome, yet understated. Ability without bragging about it makes it perennially appealing. For over 40 years, it has been a class act, and still is.
Range Rover Autobiography price in South Africa
The Range Rover Autobiography retails for R1 840 200
We like:
· Refined
. Excellent engine
. Fantastic safety technology
. Huge boot and rear legroom
We dont like:
· Not for enthusiastic drivers
. Gearbox can be a little hesitant
. Engine a little rough when pressing on
Honda first previewed the redesigned 2014 Jazz/Fit in July last year. Now the car has had its American debut at this year’s Detroit Auto Show, showing off dynamic styling, and upgraded interior packed with “class leading features and technology.”
Known as the Fit in Japan and US, the brand claims the latest Jazz is the most efficient among all its models, as it joins the current line-up of 1.5-litre 4-cylinder hybrid powertrains offered in cars like the CR-Z and Civic Hybrid.
The car that has been their bestseller for over a decade, has also won numerous awards and according to the Japanese automaker, “stands out in the market as a benchmark of reliability.”
All-new powerful engine
The new Jazz or Fit Hybrid makes use of a brand new system called the Sport Hybrid Intelligent Dual Clutch Drive, developed under the Earth Dreams initiative, and has styling influences from the 2012 Insight.
The US model will come equipped with an all-new direct-injected 1.5-litre 4-cylinder DOHC i-VTEC engine delivering 97 kW at 6500 rpm and a peak torque of 154 Nm at 4600 rpm. It is 10 kW and 11 Nm more powerful than the outgoing engine and is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox or a CVT with paddle shifters.
Honda’s estimated fuel consumption figures are rated at 7.3-litres/100 km City, 5.4-litres/100 km Highway and 6.5-litres/100 km Combined.
Exterior styling
The 2014 Honda Jazz gets a whole new look that is dominated by hard angles, and out back there are new LED taillights and a rear diffuser. Further adding to the new style are an aggressive front fascia with a new grille and headlight design, and 16-inch tyres outfitted with a new 5-spoke wheel design.
Chassis updates for the 2014 car also include new rear dampers and revised suspension along with the use of high-strength steel that has helped the car lose 26 kg.
Enhanced interior and technology features
The 2014 Honda Jazz now offers Bluetooth connectivity, Hondas lane watch camera and a 7-inch touchscreen,heated seats, a moonroof, a multi-angle rearview camera and Expanded View Drivers Mirror. For the first time ever, the Jazz can also now be had with leather-trimmed seats.
Both passenger volume and rear legroom have been increased compared to the previous model. With the rear seats folded flat, the car offers a substantial amount of space.
2014 Honda Jazz gallery
Toyota FT-1 Concept Unleashed In Detroit
The first of the reveals from the 2014 Detroit Auto Show and first out the blocks is Toyota with its stunning FT-1 concept sports car.
Designed by a Californian-based Toyota design team, the FT-1 is a showcase and inspiration for future sportscars from the Japanese manufacturer. It’s styling cues are taken from the current Toyota 86 as well as the iconic trio of the 2000GT, Celica and Supra. These three sportscars form the basis of Toyota’s street cred and the FT-1 sums them all up nicely in one sophisticated package.
Toyota FT-1 Design and Setup
There’s no mistaking the FT-1’s styling. This is a car designed for speed and for maximum aerodynamic efficiency. It features large intakes and exhausts, as well as an ostentatious rear wing. Much like the Toyota 86, the FT-1 is a front engine / rear-wheel drive configuration with the cabin designed in the middle, which optimises weight distribution.
Toyota FT-1 Cabin
The cabin of the FT-1 is futuristic and aimed at maximising enjoyment for the driver. There’s a delta-shaped display which projects car vitals onto the windscreen like a fighter jet, while added touches like the Formula One-style steering wheel further adds to the appeal.
Toyota sadly says this vehicle is not for production and is just a design study concept. That said, there have been many at Toyota who have been pushing for the company to gives its products more energy and passion. While the FT-1 may not be the Supra replacement, you can bet that the next generation of Toyota sportscars will have been inspired by this. The FT-1 will come to life virtually on the Playstation game Gran Turismo. Check out the video below, where the FT-1 can be seen racing virtually.
Toyota FT-1 Gallery
Toyota FT-1 Video
2014 Audi Allroad Shooting Brake Concept Unleashed
Audi has officially unleashed the Allroad Shooting Brake which hints at the design of the upcoming third-generation TT.
Powerful and efficient hybrid drive features two electric motors
The concept comes equipped with a transverse-mounted 4-cylinder, 2.0-litre TFSI turbocharged engine producing 215 kW of power and 380 Nm of torque.
The engine works together with a disc-shaped electric motor which adds an extra 40 kW and 270 Nm and has been integrated within the e-S tonic six-speed gearbox. There also a second electric motor installed on the rear axle which offers 85 kW and 270 Nm. Combined output is 300 kW with 650 Nm of torque.
The 2014 Audi Allroad Shooting Brake concept completes the 0-100 km/h dash in 4.6 seconds before hitting an electronically-limited speed of 250 km/h. Fuel consumption is rated at 1.9 litres/100 km with CO2 emissions of 45 g/km while the maximum range is of 820 km.
Dynamic design features
The concept presented in an Ice Blue finish marks the first time the German automaker has combined the Allroad and e-tron languages together. With a 2510mm wheelbase, the 2014 Audi Allroad Shooting Brake Concept is 4200mm long, 1850mm wide and 1410mm tall, and is at at a rather hefty 1600 kg and its body is made from a combination between aluminium and carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP).
Designed as a crossover, the 2014 Audi Allroad Shooting Brake Concept features a prominent grille flanked by distinctive headlights. It also has large wheel flares, aluminium inlays in the angular sill add-ons, large lightweight 19-inch alloy wheels with CFRP rims, a tailgate-mounted spoiler and a dual exhaust system. The open roof spoiler further accentuates the design while the third brake light, implemented as a flat light conductor, elegantly complements the rear design.
The interior closely mimics that of the TT as it features a digital instrument cluster, circular air vents, anthracite and rock grey accents, a sporty multi-function steering wheel, alloy pedals and the new MMI controller. The sporty seats are equipped with highly contoured lateral panels and integrated head restraints. There’s also appearances of leather and bright/dark aluminium materials used on the controls and trim.
Audi hopes the Allroad Shooting Brake will attract young, sporty and active people that will embrace its versatility and functionality. It is currently on show at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show.
