2014 Volkswagen Beetle Dune Concept Debuts In Detroit
Volkswagen has revealed images of the 2014 Beetle Dune Concept set to debut at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show today, with a rumoured production model expected in 2015.
Potential version of the design icon
The 2014 Volkswagen Beetle Dune Concept revisits an idea that was presented in Los Angeles in 2000. It incorporates a rugged crossover styling design with flared wheel arches, protective plates, black mouldings and large alloy wheels.
Volkswagen says that the body was raised by two inches and the designers bolted a pair of skis to the roof to show the vehicle’s go-anywhere intentions. The interior adopts a number of yellow accents and a handle which has replaced the glove box.
Power for the 2014 Volkswagen Beetle Dune Concept comes from a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine delivering 154 kW, which is then sent to the wheels by means of the DSG six speed dual-clutch gearbox.
Just like the production R-Line Beetle, the 2014 Dune puts its power to the ground via the front wheels and a strut-type front and multi-link rear suspension, with the XDS electronic differential lock providing further traction.
More details will be available later today when the vehicle debuts at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show.
2014 Volkswagen Beetle Dune Concept gallery
German Special Customs Unveils The McLaren P1 Night Glow
Aftermarket specialists German Special Customs (GSC) has revealed a new program for the McLaren P1, called the Night Glow.
The GSC McLaren P1 Night Glow is fitted with a new body kit as well as a significant power increase of 133 kW leaving it at 674 kW with maximum torque rated at 900 Nm.
The additional power comes from the V8 twin-turbo 3.8-litre mid-mounted petrol engine which is further equipped with an in-house exhaust system with two round 100mm pipes designed in a fighter-jet style.
According to German Special Customs, the GSC McLaren P1 sprints from 0-100 km/h in just 2.8 seconds, before reaching 300km/h in an incredible 16.5 seconds. The standard P1 is reported to have circled the highly demanding northern loop of Nurburgring in less than seven minutes.
Aside from added power increase the McLaren P1 Night Glow features a new spoiler blade, side blades on the front apron with LED daytime driving lights and large air inlets for cooling purposes.
The tuned McLaren P1 Night Glow supercar further gains an adjustable XXL rear wing and a roof-mounted scoop, as well as GSC-designed side skirts, rear diffuser and air inlets in the rear side walls of the bodywork.
GSC mentions pricing and availability are available upon request.
McLaren P1 Night Glow gallery
Seat Leon Cupra Revealed Ahead Of Geneva Debut
Seat has revealed first images and details of two versions of the new Leon Cupra – the most powerful series production car the Spanish manufacturer has ever produced.
The all-new Seat Leon Cupra and Cupra 280
The Seat Leon Cupra and Cupra 280 make are both equipped with a 4-cylinder, 2.0-litre TSI turbocharged petrol engine that produces 195 kW in the Cupra and 206 kW in the Cupra 280, and a maximum torque of 350 Nm for both of them.
The Cupra 280 is Seat’s most powerful road-going model ever and will complete the 0-100 km/h run in 5.7 seconds when fitted with the DSG unit, while with the 6-speed manual gearbox it will be 0.1 seconds slower. The regular Seat Leon Cupra does 5.8s with DSG and 5.9s with the manual transmission, and all versions have an electronically-capped top speed of 250 km/h.
Seat mentions a 6.4 litres/100 km combined fuel economy for the manual Leons and a 6.7 litres/100 km figure for those working with the optional DSG.
Dynamic precision
Both these front-wheel drive Seats feature DCC dynamic chassis control, a front-axle differential lock and progressive steering all fitted as standard.
The DCC chassis control system featuring a Cupra mode firms up the vehicle’s suspension when activated while the new front-axle differential significantly improves the traction and handling of this front-wheel drive car.
Weighing in at 55kg less than its predecessor, and comes with standard start/stop and energy recovery systems, the manual Cupra is now capable of a 149g/km CO2 figure.
Design features
Additional design features include full-LED headlamps, larger air intakes, rear diffuser, twin exhaust and unique 18-inch alloy wheels with red brake callipers and tinted side and rear windows. The Seat Leon Cupra 280 rides on 19-inch rims and can be distinguished by an aero kit with a rear spoiler, together with a black exterior and interior trim.
The interior is complete with shifting paddles for the optional DSG transmission, sport seats in dark grey Alcantara finished with white stitching, full-leather upholstery in black, and aluminium entry sills and pedals.
Apparently Seat is also planning a Cupra version of the ST model which will likely be introduced later this year.
We don’t usually cover racecar unveilings here at Cars.co.za, but the Subaru STI NBR Challenge is important for one main reason.
The car is based on the next generation of the road-going Subaru WRX STI, which debuts at next week’s Detroit Auto Show. Very little is known about the specifications of the car, but it’ll offer brutal performance combined with pin-sharp handling.
Subaru STI NBR Challenge
As for the Subaru STI NBR Challenge, it will compete in the 24 Hours of Nurburgring endurance race and will be looking to pull off a class victory after the team’s win back in 2012. Subaru STIs have been competing in this event for six years, which is plenty time to fine-tune that perfect race-honed suspension.
Earlier this week, some leaked images of the new Subaru WRX STI made an appearance on the web. While we can’t verify if they’re true, I’m confident they’re fairly accurate. Based on the next generation Subaru WRX, the STI will offer more power, more aggressive looks and a hardcore appeal. We at Cars.co.za are quite fond of the outgoing version and you can read our Subaru WRX review here.
Subaru WRX STI leaked gallery
Mercedes-Benz E250 CDI Reviewed
As the rest of the Mercedes-Benz line up received some youthful injection in the form of the A- and CLA-Classes, the luxury E-Class sedan carries on its mission of providing luxury and refined motoring. David Taylor spent a week with the diesel-powered E250 CDI.
Mercedes-Benz E250 CDI introduction and styling
The E-Class, like the S-Class, has been an important model for Mercedes-Benz as it epitomises the brand perfectly. Luxury, refinement and classiness are words used to describe the E-Class. It’s no wonder that 13-million E-Class vehicles have been sold over 60 years.
The all-new Mercedes-Benz E250 CDI is an attractive sedan. Many sedans lack that head-turning appeal, but the E-Class has some subtle nuances which hint at the latest technology and features underneath. Take that front end, for instance. Dominated by spectacular LED lamps and curvy touches, the E250 has become rather eye catching. The shape is pretty much similar to the majority of executive sedans, while the rear is optimised for generous boot space. LED tail lamps look rather good, especially at night.
Mercedes-Benz E250 CDI engine and efficiency
Underneath the bonnet of the Mercedes-Benz E250 CDI is a rather special engine. It may only have the capacity of a 2.0-litre and be a diesel, but it has outputs of 150 kW and 500 Nm! Thanks to a twin turbocharger setup, where the smaller turbine boosts quickly at low revs and the larger turbo increases power at high revs, the E250 offers respectable performance while still keeping fuel economy at a respectable rate. Mercedes-Benz says its E250 CDI will hit 100km/h in under eight seconds, which is decent considering it’s a large sedan weighing close on two tons. Speaking of fuel economy, the E250 CDI is claimed to sip 5.2L/100km on the combined cycle.
Mercedes-Benz E250 CDI build quality and features
If you’re a Mercedes-Benz fan or owner, you’ll be pleased to know the cabin of the E250 is swish, luxurious and well assembled. Just as you would expect it to be when you’re paying over R500 000 for a fancy German sedan. First impressions from behind the driver’s seat are a little daunting as there are buttons galore and there’s no handbrake or gear selector visible. The park brake is located by your left calf muscle, while the gear selector has been moved to the right-hand side of the steering wheel.
There are features galore in the Mercedes-Benz E250 CDI. I have heated, electronically adjustable seats which can gently massage you as you drive. There’s dual-zone climate control, active cruise control, Mercedes-Benz COMAND system (satnav, Bluetooth/mp3 connectivity) and even things like automatic wipers and lights. It’s astonishing how much tech has been crammed into the E-Class.
Mercedes-Benz E250 CDI safety
Safety is where the Mercedes-Benz E250 CDI shines. There are no fewer than nine airbags, an automatic parking system, driver-drowsiness detector, city-braking that stops the car at low speeds if a collision is imminent, headlights which dip down at night when other cars are about, as well as a system which alerts you to cars which have braked in front of you.
The auto-steering function will keep you within the lines on the freeway and there’s a blind spot monitor which alerts you to vehicles you may not seen, too. There is also the standard features like stability control, traction control, ABS, EBD and brake assist.
Mercedes-Benz E250 CDI ride and refinement
I was happy with the way the E250 CDI drove. It is quite refined as long as you don’t drive it in any other manner than gently. If you start to push the car, the engine sounds a little rough and the gearbox doesn’t appreciate the brash approach. When left to its own devices the seven-speed gearbox is acceptably smooth, unless you put it in sport which then forces you to use the manual overide to change up. The bottom line? Drive the E250 CDI leisurely and you’ll be rewarded with a relaxing driving experience.
Mercedes-Benz E250 CDI conclusion
The E250 CDI is probably the pick of the range this side of the manic E63 AMG. A petrol-powered E-Class won’t offer much more in terms of ability, but will happily consume a lot more fuel. While Mercedes-Benz has done a tremendous job aiming its products at a younger audience, I can’t help but feel that I, as a 28-year-old feel a little out of place behind the wheel of an E-Class. It gently floats along effortlessly, but doesn’t offer much in terms of driver-orientated enjoyment. If that’s your thing, then check out the BMW 5-Series which still retains a hands-on driving approach. If you’re over driving shenanigans and are after a quiet and refined executive saloon, the E250 CDI offers a great balance of comfort and economy.
Mercedes-Benz E250 CDI price in South Africa
The Mercedes-Benz E250 CDI starts from R592 892.
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
Rolls-Royce has announced it will be selling a limited-edition version of their Ghost model fitted with V-Specification which will only be offered to customers by commission between January and June 2014.
Dynamic Ghost V-Specification
The Rolls-Royce Ghost was introduced in 2009 as a slightly smaller alternative to the enormous Rolls-Royce Phantom sedan. Now available with V-Specification, major changes come from under the hood as the 6.6-litre V12 engine produces 422 kW and 780 Nm of torque – an increase of 22 kW.
Acceleration is delivered from 0-100 km/h in 4.7 seconds before hitting a top speed of 250 km/h.
This limited series celebrates one of Ghosts defining characteristics; the exquisite 6.6 litre Rolls-Royce V12 engine,” says Rolls-Royce CEO Torsten Muller-Otvos.
He went on to say “Since its introduction in 2009, an extraordinary marriage of assured presence and remarkable driving dynamics has endeared Ghost to a new generation of highly discerning businessmen and women, ensuring the cars position as the statement of choice for a growing band of successful entrepreneurs around the world.
The V-Specification package is in addition available on both standard Ghost and Ghost Extended Wheelbase model.
The package includes special 21-inch polished wheels, optional chrome exhausts, embroidery on the rear armrest, a steel inlay for the infotainment screen lid, and a special analogue clock with a black crown-shaped surround. Rolls-Royce has also selected five bespoke colours specifically for the Ghost V-Specification from the company’s 44 000 hue palette.
The 2014 Rolls-Royce Ghost V-Specification will be available to order from January to June 2014. It is not yet clear whether this option is available for South African customers.
2014 Rolls-Royce Ghost V-Specification gallery
Richard Hammond On Schumachers injury
I was on a bus. A crowded, mercilessly long journey between Grahamstown and Johannesburg. The second Olsen Twins movie was playing at a horrendous volume and I was barely clinging onto my sanity when the call came through. Richard Hammond was in a coma following a horrific high speed accident. My heart sank.
I am a massive fan of Top Gear and its three presenters. Ive been lucky enough to meet them on various occasions and interview the Top Gear presenters. For whatever reason, I felt like one of my friends was severely injured.
The next few days would see Hammond regain consciousness, with friends Clarkson and May at his bedside, and start his path to recovery. He wrote about recovering from brain damage in his book, On the Edge. Its a good read if you can find a copy.
It took months and months of work and support for Hammond to get back to himself. If there is anyone on the planet who can relate to what is happening, and what might happen, to F1 legend Michael Schumacher, it is the pint-sized Birminghammer from TVs biggest show.
In a candid interview with BBC Five Live, Hammond speaks openly about the challenges of recovering from such an injury. It is a moving, insightful interview, and offers possibly the best perspective on the Schumacher saga that Ive come across.
Forget about journalists hounding the Schumacher family. Forget about press conferences from doctors. This is just about everything you need to know about how life might be for the worlds most successful driver.
Richard Hammond on Schumacher’s injury video
2015 Lexus RC F Officially Unveiled
Following a sneak preview by Lexus late last year, official images of the 2015 Lexus RC F have surfaced on internet ahead of the vehicle’s debut at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show taking place next week.
Aggressive design cues
Based on the all-new RC coupe that was revealed at the Tokyo Motor Show last November, the RC F features a number of significant changes. These changes include wider wheels and tyres, an active rear wing, air scoops, cooling ducts, a carbon fibre roof, extended skirts and a quad tailpipe exhaust system.
The rear features a speed-sensitive spoiler designed to stabilize the car at higher velocities, and deploys at approximately 80 km/h and retracts at speeds less than 40 km/h.
Air outlets at the rear of the front fender form the shape of an L when they merge with side sill extensions, while stacked trapezoidal quad-outlet tailpipes at the rear add further aggression.
Additionally, three wheel designs are available, and they all have 10-spoke 19-inch forged aluminium wheels, including two machine-polished designs and one hand polished design.
Most powerful V8 performance car ever developed by Lexus
Official performance specifications are yet to be released, but it’s expected the 2015 Lexus RC F will pack a 5.0-litre V8 engine that develops 343 kW. This engine is not too dissimilar used in the previous generation Lexus IS-F.
This set-up will enable the car to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 4.5 seconds before hitting a top speed of roughly 300 km/h.
Interior features
The cabin carries over from the standard model, but has been equipped with a number of new unique elements including the instrument cluster which is dominated by a central meter which changes according to four selectable driving modes, leather-wrapped sport seats and alloy peals. Design cues for this cabin have come from the fearsome Lexus LFA hypercar.
There’s also revised trim and a new “elliptical cross-section thick-grip steering wheel” with paddle shifters and all-new high back seats with an embossed F on the headrests.
Additional details about the new high-performance 2015 Lexus RC F two-door will be released in a few days when it officially debuts at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show.
2015 Lexus RC F gallery
Peugeot 208 GTI Reviewed
The next generation of Peugeot’s little hot hatch made its way to the Cars offices and we spent a week with it. Did it live up to the hype?
Peugeot 208 GTI background
Many journalists will harp on about how great the classic Peugeot 205 GTI was and how subsequent models came close, but never quite matched how brilliant this car was. I’ve never seen a 205 GTI, let alone driven one so I can’t make comparisons but I did have a brief stint behind the wheel of a 207 GTI. It was an impressive little car, with cute looks and a willing engine, but I found it missing that X-factor. Fast forward to 2013/2014, and the new Peugeot 208 GTI is quietly making a little name for itself.
Compared to its sensible 208 siblings, the GTI is quite a looker. Peugeot has done substantial work to ensure the little 208 GTI has some eye-catching looks. There’s an overwhelming red theme to the car, with red badging and red brake callipers. Daytime running lights, sporty exhaust cover, aggressive alloy wheels and a wing round off a rather smart looking little package.
Peugeot 208 GTI powerplant
The go has to match the show if the Peugeot 208 GTI is to make an impression amongst the enthusiasts. With a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder motor churning out 147 kW and 275 N.m, there’s enough oomph on paper to pique your interest. It’s claimed to be rather efficiency friendly too, with Peugeot claiming around 6l/100km. Performance is claimed to be quite sprightly, with the 208 GTI hitting the 100km/h mark in under 7 seconds.
Impressive specification for the Peugeot 208 GTI
As for as standard specification goes, the Peugeot 208 GTI scores highly. The interior has a sporty theme to it and there are splashes of red everywhere. There’s climate control, a chilled glove box, rear parking sensors, cruise control with speed limiter, satellite navigation and a six-speaker sound system complete with steering wheel controls, Bluetotooth, a pair of USB ports and an aux jack. The 208 GTI also features Smart Park Assist where the car steers for you while executing a parallel parking maneuver. That list of spec for a sub-R300k car is mighty impressive. It’s safe too, with a full array of features like four rear-parking sensors, ABS, EBD, EBA, traction control and Hill-Start Assist.
Peugeot 208 GTI is underwhelming
It’s all very well having a sporty suspension, good looks, great specification and a strong engine, but how does that translate into raw performance and experience? This is where the Peugeot falls slightly short in my opinion. Don’t get me wrong – the Peugeot 208 GTI is a brisk car, but when the fleet manager recommends you fold the back seats down for increased turbo and exhaust noise, you get the idea that the 208 GTI is a little underwhelming. “But it’s a GTI! Where’s the excitment?” you’ll ask? Which is exactly my question. I find it sad that the Peugeot RCZ (which has this same engine) gets a great-sounding sports exhaust, while the 208 has to do without.
Peugeot 208 GTI ride and handling
The Peugeot 208 GTI rides well and if there was one sporty little hatch you’d want on a long journey, it’d have to be this one. Peugeot has clearly gone for the comfort is more important than handling prowess ideology as the ride isn’t as firm as you’d expect from a vehicle of this nature. That said, when you want to imitate a Sebastien Loeb Pikes Peak run, the 208 GTI will make you happy. A sharp turn will show the car is tight and poised and during some enthusiastic driving, the car stayed glued to the road. When really pressing on the ESP will gently intervene to keep traction, but the car still feels nimble.
Peugeot 208 GTI conclusion
We can’t all be childish hooligan boy racers forever. There comes a time when you have to be responsible and tactful. One can’t always do the commute with their foot mashed on the accelerator with turbo whistles and exhaust pops every few seconds. If I was to remain in my 20s I’d stick with my favourite the Ford Fiesta ST and be branded a boy racer. But as I approach the 30-year-old mark, I’d take a long hard look at the Peugeot 208 GTI and appreciate it for what it is – a brisk, stylish and well-equipped sports hatch. It’s not trying to set lap records or scalp bigger/more expensive machinery, which makes this car tick the sensible and responsible boxes.
Can it match its rivals though? As the price of the popular and bigger hot hatches moves them out of reach for some, cars like the Peugeot 208 GTI start to look appealing. It’s agonisingly close to having that X-factor but given the classiness, decent specification, brisk performance and value for money of the 208 GTI, Peugeot should ensure it has plenty of stock on its showroom floors. It was nominated as a South African Car of the Year finalist too, a worthy nod in my opinion.
Peugeot 208 GTI price in South Africa
The Peugeot 208 GTI costs R279 900.
We like:
· A solid value-for-money offering.
· Great specification.
. Sporty yet economical performance.
. A sensible purchase
We dont like:
· Despite continual adjustments, the steering wheel can obstruct the speedometer.
. A little underwhelming if you’re wanting some red hot excitement.
. Steering wheel is a little small.
Volvo has just released three images and a teaser video of the Concept XC Coupe – a design study which likely previews the next generation of the XC90 and will be introduced in January at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show.
The XC Coupe Concept is the second of three concepts by Volvo and underpinned by the same design language as the Concept Coupe that was shown at this year’s Frankfurt Motor Show. According to Volvo, the Concept XC Coupe builds on the Volvos proud history of Cross Country and XC products, with Volvo Cars having created the niche in 1997.
The range-topping Volvo Concept XC Coupe SUV will ride on the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) and will be powered by a variety of engines part of the newly established Drive-E lineup. In addition to the new platform, Volvo will also introduce a whole new range of downsized 2.0-litre four-cylinder engines which will eventually replace the automaker’s entire engine line-up.
Engine specs and more details will be made available after the reveal at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show.
