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.
Volvo Concept XC Coupe video
Volvo Concept XC Coupe gallery
Audi Sport Quattro Laserlight Concept Shown In Las Vegas
The Audi Sport quattro laserlight concept car has had its world premier at the 2014 Consumer Electronics Show currently taking place in Las Vegas.
Audi has also just announced that the laser headlights featured on the concept will reach production vehicles and will also make its way to the 2014 Audi R18 e-tron quattro race car.
Cutting edge electronic features
The Laserlight concept car is an updated version of the Sport quattro concept that debut at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show pointing towards the future with the latest technologies in plug-in hybrid drives, user control and display interfaces and lighting technology.
The new show car demonstrates technical Vorsprung on many levels, says Prof. Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg. On-board this car we have e-tron technology with 515 kW of power and 2.5 l/100 km fuel economy; laser headlights that leave all previous systems in the dark with its higher performance as well as new display and operating systems with cutting-edge electronic performance. We are showing the future of Audi here.
Audi is demonstrating the future of lighting technology by combining matrix LED and laser light technologies. The laser diodes are significantly smaller than LEDs, however are able to illuminate out to 500 metres.
Two low-profile trapezoidal elements are visible within the headlights. The outer one generates the low beam light using matrix LEDs and an aperture mask, while the inner element produces laser light for high-beam functionality.
Other highlights offered by the Audi Sport Quattro Laserlight Concept include a Plasma Red exterior, a new Audi virtual cockpit for the driver, based on the cutting edge Nvidia Tegra 30 processor, which will let you overlay your speed dial on a navigation map, thanks to the use of layered 3D graphics.
Like the original concept, the Audi Sport Quattro Laserlight Concept is fitted with a plug-in hybrid powertrain that consists of a twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 engine and a disc-shaped electric motor.
This allows the car to deliver a combined maximum output of 515 kW and 800 Nm of torque. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h is said to take just 3.7 seconds in order to reach a top speed of 305 km/h (189 mph).
The Sport Quattro Laserlight coupe remains a concept, but there are rumors that Audi will make a production version which will go on sale in a year or three.
Audi Sport Quattro Laserlight Concept gallery
Google Glass Integration Now Offered In The 2014 Hyundai Genesis
Hyundai has announced the all-new 2014 Genesis will be available with an infotainment system that is compatible with wearable devices and has support for Google Glass.
All-new wearable technology
This integration will allow owners to connect with their vehicle using wearable devices which in turn will further help owners save time and add a new level of convenience by allowing remote interaction with the vehicle without the need to pull out their smartphone.
“We see wearables as a technology trend, expanding from fitness and health monitoring to broader applications,” says Barry Ratzlaff, executive director, Customer Connect and Service Business Development, Hyundai Motor America.
“As a leader in connected car technology, we’re always exploring new ways to use technology to enhance the ownership experience for our customers. Wearables are a great way to extend the experience outside of the vehicle by leveraging these small screens to quickly access remote features and deliver timely vehicle information.”
Hyundai Blue Link Google Glass App
In addition, the car will come with two apps: Genesis Intelligent Assistant and Google Glass Blue Link app.
The Genesis Intelligent Assistant app combines Blue Link features, data from the vehicle, the owners smartphone and the internet with multiple layers of intelligence. Hyundai says the app will ‘get to know you’ and your schedule so it can give you departure reminders (which are determined by your current location, traffic information and the location of your destination) and remote staring reminders that asks owners if they want to start the car to heat or cool the interior before leaving.
Additionally through Blue Link, the driver will have access to remote door lock/unlock, remote start, vehicle finder, as well as POI send-to-car by Google. the new Blue Link system further boasts a number of enhancements which include a remote starting system that has an engine timer, stopping system and remote climate / defroster controls. There’s also an Automatic Collision Notification system that can notify user-selected emergency contacts – via SMS and e-mail – in the event of an accident.
When using Google Glass, information about the vehicle will be presented as cards optimized specifically for the Glass user interface. The owner will be informed about when maintenance is due via push notifications and will also schedule service by initiating a call through the device’s built-in feature.
The 2014 Hyundai Genesis will also have a new infotainment system with GPS navigation, Pandora / SoundHound integration and Apples Siri-powered Eyes Free mode. Other highlights include advanced voice recognition technology, swipe technology, a customizable home screen and music, video and picture storage.
The 2014 Hyundai Genesis is scheduled to arrive in South Africa in the second half of 2014. Prices and specs will be announced closer to launch date.
What’s Google Glass?
2014 Mercedes-Benz GLA 45 AMG Production Version Officially Revealed
Mercedes-Benz has just revealed the high-performance AMG version of the GLA, ahead of the vehicle’s public debut scheduled for later this month at 2014 Detroit Auto Show.
Compact SUV with Driving Performance
The 2014 Mercedes-Benz GLA 45 AMG was previewed as a concept in Los Angeles last November. Now in its production form, the GLA 45 AMG adopts a more aggressive styling approach with larger bumpers, an AMG sports suspension, muscular side skirts and three bigger AMG alloy wheels to choose from. Which include 5-twin spoke wheels painted titanium grey with high-sheen finish mounted with 19-inch tyres and the larger 10-spoke wheels fitted with 20-inch tyres available in titanium grey with high-sheen finish or matte black with high-sheen rim flange.
The rear end is dominated by the diffuser insert with titanium grey trim and the rectangular, chrome-plated trim of the twin tailpipes of the AMG sports exhaust system with exhaust flap.
Most powerful series-produced four-cylinder engine
Power is provided by a Euro 6-compliant 4-cylinder, 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine delivering 265 kW of power and 450 Nm of torque which is then transferred to the 4MATIC all-wheel drive system via a seven-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT transmission.
Acceleration from standstill to 100 km/h takes about 4.8 seconds reaching an electronically-limited speed of 250 km/h. Its also said the 2014 Mercedes-Benz GLA 45 AMG can return 7.5 litres / 100 km with CO2 emissions of 175 g/km.
The seven speed transmission mentioned offers three shift modes: manual, sport and controlled efficiency. Stability controls found in the car also offer three modes for varying degrees of slip and all models come standard with the ability to independently apply braking to the rear inside wheel to counteract understeer.
Distinctive styling
Interior features include sport seats wrapped around in leather/Dinamica microfibre with red contrasting stitching and red safety belts. There’s also a three-spoke Nappa leather-covered multifunction steering wheel with red contrasting topstitching and an AMG instrument cluster with a two-tube design and a central colour display.
Additional features offered on the 2014 Mercedes-Benz GLA 45 AMG include a high-performance braking system, an aerodynamic package, carbon fibre package, red painted brake callipers, rear spoiler, as well as a night package which has privacy windows, silver chrome radiator louvers, a black strip around the waistline high-gloss black pieces on the sides and rear and black rectangular trim around the tail pipes.
The interior can further be upgraded with carbon fibre trim, performance seats and steering wheel along with various leather upholstery options.
The 2014 Mercedes-Benz GLA 45 AMG is set to make its first public outing on January 13 at the North American International Auto Show.
2014 Mercedes-Benz GLA 45 AMG gallery
2014 Peugeot 308 SW Revealed
Peugeot has expanded its medium-car range with the new 308 SW which will be publicly showcased at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show in March.
The sleek and spacious estate
The 2014 Peugeot 308 SW has been completely redesigned, boasting class leading capacity with 610 litres of boot space and is 4.58 metres long and only 1.47 metres high.
Its modularity is achieved with unparalleled simplicity with seats that fold flat with a single pull of a lever in the boot, as well as a completely flat boot.
The interior benefits from from Peugeots new i-Cockpit modern layout designed to provide driver and passengers with a clean and clear environment.
Additionally, the vehicle rides on the same EMP2 architecture as the 308 hatchback which has allowed Peugeot to shed 140kg from the kerbweight.
Upon launch, the 2014 Peugeot 308 SW will be available with a range of Euro 6-compliant petrol and diesel engines, including a BlueHDI turbodiesel variant which will have CO2 emissions of only 85 g/km.
The 2014 Peugeot 308 SW will be showcased at the Geneva Motor Show in March. It is not yet clear when this model will reach our shores as we are still awaiting the launch of the 308 hatchback which is said to happen in 2015.
2014 Peugeot 308 SW gallery
Ford C-Max Solar Energi Concept Unveiled
Ford has announced plans to unveil the C-MAX Solar Energi concept equipped with a solar roof panel and is estimated to reduce the annual greenhouse gas emissions by using renewable power.
Breakthrough clean technology
The Ford C-Max Solar Energi Concept which will be on display at the 2014 International CES in Las Vegas, is a plug-in hybrid with a battery pack that can be charged not only from an electrical outlet but also from the sun’s power.
A first of its kind, the sun-powered concept uses a specially developed concentrator which acts like a magnifying glass to direct the sun’s rays to the solar panels mounted on the vehicle’s roof.
According to Ford, a day of charging in the sunshine will give the C-Max Solar Energi concept the same full charge as in the conventional C-Max Energi plug-in hybrid, with a total range of 998 km 34 of which can be run on electric power alone.
The 2014 Ford C-MAX Solar Energi concept is the result of a collaboration between Ford, SunPower Corp. and Georgia Institute of Technology.
“Ford C-MAX Solar Energi Concept shines a new light on electric transportation and renewable energy,” said Mike Tinskey, Ford global director of vehicle electrification and infrastructure.
“As an innovation leader, we want to further the public dialog about the art of the possible in moving the world toward a cleaner future.”
Ford hasnt mentioned what it would cost to add the panels, but plans to show the concept during the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas next week. After that, it will begin real-world testing to determine production feasibility.
Ford C-Max Solar Energi Concept gallery
Nissan Sport Sedan Teased Ahead of Official Detroit Debut
The web is buzzing over the teaser image Nissan has released of their Sport Sedan concept set to debut at the upcoming Detroit Auto Show.
Next-generation Nissan design signatures
According to Nissan, the Sport Sedan concept previews a new energetic design that amplifies the firm’s legendary design principles and offers an advanced look at a future production sports sedan.”
Other than the dimly-lit image shown above, no specific details about the concept have been offered. The image shows the Nissan Sport Sedan might feature boomerang-shaped headlights, a prominent grille and blacked out A-pillars. Engine details and drivetrain layout also still remain a secret.
Besides the Sport Sedan concept, Nissan will showcase the IDx Freeflow and IDx NISMO concepts which recently debuted at the Tokyo Auto Show.
The Nissan Sport Sedan Concept including the other two concepts will be revealed at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show taking place next week
Infiniti Q50 Eau Rouge Concept First Images Revealed
Infiniti has revealed new images and details of their Q50 Eau Rouge Concept scheduled to officially debut at the North American International Auto Show next week.
Formula 1 inspired styling
Meant to preview the future design of high-performance Infiniti products, the Infiniti Q50 Eau Rouge is lower, wider and lighter than a normal Q50. Its F1 inspired design expresses muscularity, refinement and understated performance intent.
Major bodywork components have been redesigned with aerodynamics in mind and manufactured carbon fibre. Only the roof and door profiles remain unchanged from the production Q50.
Powertrain and performance details still haven’t been revealed, but it’s suspected that the concept might be fitted with the same drivetrain as a normal Q50, with moderate power enhancements.
Complex carbon composite bodywork
Additional highlights include deep and detailed carbon fibre front splitter, rear diffuser and side sill skirts. There are also carbon fibre roof and door mirror casings, 21-inch lightweight forged alloy wheels and a dual-exit exhaust sports system below a large integrated rear spoiler.
According to Executive Design Director Alfonso Albaisa, “From our shared passion for performance with Infiniti Red Bull Racing grew a collective desire to produce a vision of what a high-performance Infiniti Q50 could look like.”
He added, “The design has a number of distinctive Formula One inspired touches. In particular, the sculpted front wing assembly and the rear aerodynamic packaging take their cues from the RB9 race car.”
More information about the Infiniti Q50 Eau Rouge will be revealed next week at the North American International Auto Show.
Infiniti Q50 Eau Rouge gallery
Six serious offroaders for South Africans
Want to cross the Kalahari? Drive to Mozambique? Or spend a few days savouring the Namibian desert? Then youre going to need a serious offroad vehicle which does more than just mount a pavement or take the kids to school. All-wheel drive soft-roaders seem like they can make the grade on paper, but when the going gets tough you’re going to be needing one of the six serious offroaders below.
Six serious offroaders
Land Rover Discovery (From R634 300)
This is a solid choice, but you may cry out why not the Defender? Simple reason really. Its more comfortable and luxurious than its hardcore sibling. It may have slightly less capability, but it more than makes up for it in the comfort stakes. Choose between a petrol V8 or a diesel V6.
Toyota Land Cruiser 70 Series (From R435 100)
Ah, the old favourite. Capable of crossing deserts, rivers and canyons without breaking a sweat, the Toyota Land Cruiser is just simply incredible. Its as tough as nails and mechanically very simple, meaning its not going to suffer an electrical fault anytime soon. It even has two fuel tanks for crying out loud! Theres a reason 3rd world military forces use Land Cruisers by the dozen. Read our driving impression of the Toyota Land Cruiser here.
Suzuki Jimny (R209 900)
Forget the tiny tot looks for a second. The Jimny punches way above its weight and is quite easily one of the top serious offroaders. It has 40 years of heritage behind it and features an easy-to-use 4×4 system with low range. Read our review of the Suzuki Jimny here.
Subaru Forester (From R329 000)
This may look like a soft roader seen on the school run, but if theres one thing that Subaru does right is make serious offroaders. Featuring clever all-wheel drive, electronic wizardry and great ground clearance the Forester is a great machine. Read the review of the Subaru Forester here.
Toyota FJ (From R476 500)
The FJ follows in the Land Cruiser 70s footsteps and could be considered a borderline military vehicle. Simple stupendous offroad ability coupled with macho big looks mean you could cross countries with it. Or you could, if it were not so thirsty. The only downside to the FJ is the guzzling V6, otherwise this is a mountain-crushing monster.
Renault Duster (From R194 900)
Wait, who let the French guy in? No really, what is a Renault doing here? Fear not, the Duster has joined the serious offroaders and is itching to attack some desert dunes. It features a Nissan-engineered 4×4 system and has impressive ground clearance. The best part is its dirt cheap and one of the best bargain buys. Get the diesel and you could join the French Foreign Legion. Read the review of the Renault Duster here.
South African car launches in 2014
2014 is set to be another bumper year in terms of car companies launching a flurry of new models on South African shores.
Check out some of the best of the South African car launches for 2014. Click on the model’s name for more details.
South African car launches for 2014
Alfa Romeo 4C
This stylish little Italian number spearheads a revolutionised Alfa Romeo and is supposed to make the brand more desirable, especially in the United States. Whether that plan will work is another story, but the 4C is one of the prettiest little sportscars on sale. Thanks to its lithe body and a powerful 1.7-litre-turbo engine, you can expect performance to be rather exciting.
Audi RS 7
One of the most powerful production Audi saloons gatecrashes the performance party this year. With a fearsome 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, the RS7 is going to be an absolute monster.
Audi RS Q3
How does 228 kW and 420 Nm sound? Decent, yes? Now imagine that sort of power in an Audi Q3. This is the Audi RS Q3 – a performance SUV.
BMW M3 and M4
The legendary M3 name makes a welcome return in 2014. This time around we have a turbocharged six-cylinder motor as well as a name change. The M3 refers to the sedan, while the M4 is the coupe variant.
BMW 2-Series
This is the coupe version of the 1-Series and it makes its debut with a combination of diesel and petrol engine options. The flagship M235i should make its way here too. Can’t afford the M235i? Then best you look at the BMW M Performance Power kit for the 2-Series.
BMW i3 / BMW i8
The future is now! BMW’s electric cars arrive in 2014 and look rather promising. The i3 is a small commuter car, while the i8 will offer green performance motoring. Could these be the green solution we’ve all been waiting for?
Chevrolet Sonic RS
The little Chevrolet Sonic receives a much-needed performance shot in the arm with this RS model. It features a turbocharged engine as well as go-faster visual upgrades like bigger alloys and a subtle bodykit.
Ford Fusion
This mid-size sedan from Ford will make its way to South Africa and will form part of the American company’s plan to launch no fewer than 17 new models in 2014.
GWM M4 /GWM C50
Chinese manufacturer Great Wall Motors also intends to hit the ground running in 2014. The company unveiled a few new models at the 2013 Johannesburg International Motor Show, which were warmly received.
Honda Jazz
The next generation of Honda’s popular city car will reach South African shores this year. It looks rather good and if it continues the Jazz tradition, this will be a very good car.
Hyundai i10
Internationally the latest version of Hyundai’s i10 has been receiving positive reviews across the board. Let’s see if it will do well in South Africa.
Hyundai Genesis
It has taken its time to get here, but Hyundai’s flagship Genesis sedan has been confirmed for local introduction. It will be here in the second half of 2014.
Hyundai Veloster Turbo
If there was something the Hyundai Veloster needed it was more power. Our prayers have been answered and Hyundai is bringing in the turbocharged Veloster to South Africa. We saw it at the 2013 Johannesburg International Motor Show.
Jaguar F-Type Coupe
The Jaguar F-Type convertible has been a serious success for the brand and 2014 sees a hard-top coupe version make its way here. Expect more beauty and just as much performance.
Lexus RC
The eye-catching Lexus RC coupe will be landing on our shores in 2014. It will have both petrol and hybrid engines, with a strong possibility of a V8-powered hot version.
Mazda3
The Mazda3 is the Japanese car maker’s bread-and-butter, and this new model has to be good. We’ll let you know how good it is when it’s launched.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class
The all-new C-Class has just been shown off overseas and will be launched locally in 2014. The cars will be made here in Merc’s East London factory.
Mercedes-Benz GLA
This little stylish SUV has been confirmed for local introduction. Merc is so excited about this car, it has already opened up the order books and pricing starts at just under R400 000.
MG3
MG’s little city car makes its local debut and will be going up against the local favourites like the Volkswagen Polo and Toyota Yaris. It’ll be interesting to see if this Chinese-owned Brit can make an impact.
Mini
The 2014 Mini was revealed internationally and South Africa has been confirmed as one of the countries which will receive this new model. It’s bigger, greener and funkier than its predecessor.
Nissan Qashqai
The all-new Qashqai will be making its way here in 2014 and with a host of new technology and engines, should be a strong offering.
Peugeot RCZ R / Peugeot 2008
Peugeot will be using 2014 to show off the performance version of its RCZ coupe. It’s called the RCZ R and has some serious firepower under the hood. The 2008 is a more sensible offering and is a rather attractive crossover.
Porsche Macan
Can’t afford a Cayenne? Have no fear, Porsche’s baby SUV is here. It’s called the Macan and opens the door to Porsche ownership to many. It’ll take the fight to the BMW X3 and Audi Q5.
Renault Clio RS
The new Renault Clio RS was meant to be launched in late 2013, but was delayed. The new version features a 1.6-turbocharged engine coupled to a twin-clutch gearbox. It’s completely new for Renault and we’re keen to see if it can live up to the tradition.
Subaru WRX
The anticipated WRX performance sedan will make its way here in 2014, with the STI version following on a little later. The new WRX carries on the tradition of an all-wheel drive tarmac terrorist, while still retaining sedan practicality.
Suzuki SX4
The SX4 has grown up and become a real crossover. We’re keen to see if this new model is any good.
Toyota Corolla
This important model goes on sale early in 2014 and much is expected of this iconic car. Will it be able to carry on the tradition of previous generations of Corolla?
VW Golf R
The most powerful version of Volkswagen Golf reaches South African shores early on in 2014. With figures of 221 kW and 380 N.m, this is going to one seriously quick car.
These are just some of the South African car launches in 2014. There’ll be a lot, that we can promise you! For a highlight of the best of 2013’s cars, you can read Ciro De Siena’s post or read David Taylor’s 2013 year in review here.
