Comprehensive New Vehicle Sales Info In South Africa – November 2013

New vehicle sales figures for November reflected a continued weaken in demand for new vehicles as the year comes to an end. Total vehicle sales reported for the month were 50 806. 34 267 of those were passenger vehicles and 13 719 light commercial vehicles.

According to the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (NAAMSA) the new sales data further reflects the effects of a slowing economy which can be attributed to the moderation in consumer demand and supply disruptions due to the ongoing strike in the car carrier industry.

The total number of new vehicles sold during November 2013 showed a decline of 4.6% from the 53 265 vehicles sold in the same month last year, while export sales also experienced a year-on-year drop of 4.8% compared to the 28 520 vehicles exported in November last year.

The new vehicle sales graph below shows how the brands performed throughout November 2013 compared to the corresponding month last year. Toyota maintained its top position yet again, while Mercedes-Benz has taken the fifth spot from Nissan who are sitting at sixth place with a total of 2657 units. Ford moved up one spot to third place and reported total sales of 5602 units, a slight decrease of 90 vehicles from last month’s 5692 vehicles. GMSA’s sales were again boosted by their light commercial vehicles which resulted in total sales of 5042.

whole year sales
*Click the graph to view in full

Passenger Vehicle Segment

The new passenger car sector experienced the steepest decline last month, as sales dropped by 5.9% year-on-year, or 2164 units, when compared to sales of 36 431 new cars during November 2012. The graph further demonstrates how each of the vehicle’s sales have fluctuated over the past year to now.

The Toyota Etios took over the number one spot leading with 2591 units, while Ford Figo dropped from third place to fifth with a total of 1172 units. The BMW 3 Series although not in the top 5 best selling passenger cars reported the second highest export sales ( 5917 units) after the Volkswagen Polo which exported a total of 7567 vehicles.

Top 5 Passenger Cars In SA For November 2013 (Compared to November 2012)

Passenger sales
*Click the graph to view in full

Light Commercial Vehicle’s Segment

New light commercial vehicles fared slightly better with sales of 13 719 units during November, reflecting a decline of 610 units or year-on-year drop of 4.3% compared to the 14 329 vehicles sold during the corresponding month last year.

The graph below shows that the Toyota Hilux remains at the top of the top 5 list with an increase of 667 vehicles from last month’s 2894 vehicles sold. While the Ford Ranger aggressively moved up to second place with an increase of 421 vehicles from last month’s 1516 sales, surpassing both the Toyota Quantum which has moved down to third place and the Isuzu KB which didn’t make it to the top 5 but increased by 939 vehicles from last month’s 1232 vehicles. The Chevrolet Utility made it back into the top 5 list, slotting in at number 4 with a total of 1279 units.

Top 5 Light Commercial Vehicles In SA For November 2013 (Compared to November 2012)

Light commercial sales
*Click the graph to view in full

“Expectations of lower economic growth and above-inflation new vehicle price increases would contribute to a more difficult trading environment and further moderation in sales growth momentum.”

“But despite a less promising outlook for the automotive sector, the year as a whole would still represent the second or third best year on record in terms of domestic sales” says the association.

McLaren P1’s Controversial Nurburgring Lap Time

McLaren P1’s Controversial Nurburgring Lap Time

McLaren Automotive has caused a stir by posting a beautifully-shot video of its P1 hypercar charging through the Nurburgring circuit, but then not disclosing the full lap time.

The Nurburgring Nordschleife lap time is regarded as the unofficial benchmark for testing a car’s performance credentials and many have been eagerly awaiting the McLaren P1’s race against the clock. The good news is that the P1 in the hands of McLaren test driver Chris Goodwin has completed a timed lap. The bad news is McLaren isn’t telling us the full time. Instead, in a YouTube video the company just mentions the lap was completed in under seven minutes on standard road tyres.

This is infuriating seeing as the P1’s rival, the Porsche 918 set a time of six minutes and 57 seconds, and many were wanting to see if the British brute could match its German counterpart. Some have suggested the P1 couldn’t match the Porsche, while others say McLaren is waiting for Ferrari to test its LaFerrari. Currently the Nurburgring is undergoing maintenance, so we won’t know for a few months.

The P1 is the flagship vehicle of the McLaren range and uses the same engine as the MP4-12C supercar. We recently spent some time admiring it up close at the Daytona 10 celebrations in Johannesburg.

Watch the McLaren P1 go around the Nurburgring

 

All-new 2014 Audi A3 Sedan Launched In South Africa – Specs and Prices

The 2014 Audi A3 Sedan shown earlier at this year’s New York Auto Show has arrived in South Africa.

The A3 Sedan is also the third instalment of the A3 range after the new-generation A3 in -3-door guise which was launched in November 2012 and has since sold 1200 units in first 11 months of being available locally.

Engines

The 2014 A3 Sedan will be available with two petrol engines and one diesel one, all in SE specification. The 1.4 TSFI engine produces 92 kW and 200 Nm of torque (90 kW for the S tronic, while the more powerful 1.8T FSI engine produces 92 kW and 250 Nm of torque. The 2.0 TDI diesel engine delivers 110 kW of power with 350 Nm of torque.

All three engines will be offered in a choice of manual or S tronic.

2014 Audi A3 Sedan specification and pricing

The new Audi A3 sedan will further be launched with a number of standard specifications including MMI Radio with full colour, slide out LCD screen, an LED Interior lighting package, front centre armrest, light/Rain sensor, Bluetooth with voice control and audio streaming, and knee airbag.

There will also be 17-inch 5-spoke cast aluminium alloy wheels, sports suspension, front sports seats, front fog lights, Audi Drive Select with Efficiency programme, an exterior aluminium package, leather covered multi-function 3-spoke sports steering wheel with shift paddles for S tronic models, fully automated, dual zone air-conditioning, Driver Information system in colour, and an Audi Sound System.

For more details on the exterior and design elements of the 2014 Audi A3 Sedan click here.

2014 Audi A3 price in South Africa

Audi A3 Sedan 1.4T FSI SE manual – R323 500

Audi A3 Sedan 1.4T FSI SE S tronic – R340 500

Audi A3 Sedan 1.8T FSI SE manual – R341 500

Audi A3 Sedan 1.8T FSI SE S tronic – R358 500

Audi A3 Sedan 2.0 TDI SE manual – R355 500

Audi A3 Sedan 2.0TDI SE S tronic – R372 500

Pricing for the 2014 Audi A3 Sedan includes the standard five year/100 00 km Audi Freeway plan.

The Audi S3 Sedan is due for local introduction in mid-2014. Further details on pricing and specification of this model will be released closer to its introduction.

2014 Audi A3 Sedan gallery

2015 Ford Mustang Confirmed For South Africa

The all-new sophisticated 2015 Ford Mustang featuring an all-new sleek design, innovative technologies, and ‘world-class’ performance has just been confirmed for launch in South Africa – this will be the first time that this model enters the South African market.

This launch of a 2015 model marks 50 years of the iconic pony car’s heritage which according to Ford “has evolved to attract a wider array of customers and expand global market availability.” Since its first launch in 1964, 9 million units have been sold.

Improved classic Mustang designs

Looking very similar to renderings that have cropped up on the web, the 2015 Ford Mustang features the iconic signature shark-bite front fascia with a prominent grille that is flanked by three-dimensional tri-bar taillamps. It is further equipped with a front splitter, aerodynamic side skits and a bulging hood.

The sporty styling is carried over to the sides as the Mustang has been given muscular fenders, a more dramatic roof-line and weighs about 90.7 kg less than its predecessor.

The rear end has a bold design with an all-new integral-link independent rear suspension which Ford says improves handling, ride and steering precision.

The 2015 Mustang is will be offered with a variety of engines including a four-cylinder 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine with 205kW to 231kW of power, a 3.7-litre V6 engine with 227kW and a 5.0-litre V8 unit that develops 313kW.

Improvements have also been made to the interior including the addition of a large instrument panel with easily accessible ergonomic and tactile switches and knobs to provide better control for the driver.

The front seats now also feature ‘memory recline’ which will return to the driver’s preferred seating position after being moved forward in order to get the rear passengers out of the coupe. The vehicle’s width and new rear suspension contribute to improved shoulder and hip room for passengers and a boot space that can accommodate two golf bags.

The fast-back coupe will be launched alongside a convertible model which Ford says it drops its top in half the time of the current Mustang. South African fans can look forward to seeing the completely redesigned and re-engineered Mustang on local roads in 2015, however models destined for local debut have yet to be confirmed.

The 2015 Mustang is also one of the 15 new vehicles that Ford plans to launch in South Africa by 2017.

Volkswagen Touareg X Special Edition Officially Revealed


Volkswagen has announced plans to introduce a new member of the Touareg line – the Touareg X Special Edition, which commemorates the Touareg SUV’s decade long history of offering advanced fuel saving technologies and a premium driving experience.

Engine capability

The Volkswagen Touareg X Special Edition is powered by a 3.0-litre turbo-diesel V6 engine that produces 179kW of power and 550Nm of torque, and is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system.

Volkswagen says its ‘cleaner diesel burning’ Touareg X will drink 8L/100km on the open road.

Special design features

Based off the TDI Clean Diesel Lux trim, the Touareg X Special Edition features a Moonlight Blue Pearl exterior with 19-inch Moab-style alloy wheels, LED tailights and Touareg X-specific badging.

Inside the car you will find Vienna leather seats finished in Black Anthracite, which are further complemented by a black head-liner and engineered ebony wood trim.

There’s also illuminated sill plates and faux aluminium pedal covers, and a centre console finished in piano black accents and a leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel. In addition, the model comes packed with standard equipment including a panoramic sunroof, dual-zone climate control, heated front seats and GPS navigation.

To celebrate the anniversary, Volkswagen will sell 1000 Touareg X models. It is not yet clear whether these models will be available in South Africa. However we will keep you updated on any developments regarding this.

Volkswagen Touareg X Special Edition gallery


Porsche Cayenne Platinum Edition Revealed


Porsche has introduced a special edition for its six-cylinder Cayenne model based on the Cayenne V6 and Cayenne Diesel.

High-quality equipment

The Porsche Cayenne Platinum Edition features Platinum Silver Metallic details on the outside and has been designed to combine style, safety and exclusivity.

The model is equipped with bi-xenon headlights, privacy glass, 19-inch Cayenne Design II wheels with full-colour Porsche Crest, and ‘eye-catching’ air intake slats on the front fascia. The side window surrounds and rear bumper trim strip emphasize the sporty shape of the car, while the spoiler separation edge adds another striking element to the rear.

The Cayenne Platinum Edition is further enhanced with standard colours of Black and White. Optional colours are Meteor Grey Metallic, Jet Black Metallic and Mahogany Metallic. The car is also available with a White Metallic paint finish – a colour reserved exclusively for the Cayenne Platinum Edition.

Other standard features include the automatically dimming exterior and interior mirrors and dark tinted privacy glass which provides privacy for the rear seats and luggage compartment.

Performance

The Porsche Cayenne Platinum Edition is fitted with a 3.6-litre V6 petrol engine that develops 220kW and 400Nm of torque, and has an average fuel consumption of 9.9 litres/100 km with CO2 emissions of 236 g/km.

Also on offer is a Cayenne Diesel Platinum Edition with a 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine that produces 180kW of power and 550Nm of torque, and a consumption level of 7.2 litres over 100 kilometres with CO2 emissions of 189 g/km.

Interior features

The two-tone interior is packed with partial leather seats in Black and Luxor Beige, a Porsche Crest embossed on the head rest of the front and outer rear seats, SportDesign steering wheel and a Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system with GPS navigation.

The Cayenne Platinum Edition also features the standard Bose Surround Sound System or optional Burmester High-End Surround Sound System, anti-dazzle interior mirrors, special floor mats and “Platinum Edition” sill plates. Other highlights include ParkAssist and a Power Steering Plus system.

The new models are available for order as of now, with first units being delivered in February of 2014. Basic retail prices will be announced closer to launch.

Porsche Cayenne Platinum Edition gallery

Opel Astra OPC review


Simply put, the Opel Astra OPC is one of the most uncivilised hot hatches to grace South African roads. There’s no subtlety or civility about it. It was designed to look fast, be fast and dominate the track as well as the road.

Opel Astra OPC aggressive looks and styling

Have you ever seen a more aggressive, unruly hot hatch? It sits lower and wider than its lesser-powered GTC coupe sibling, and thanks to great touches like 20-inch alloy wheels, gaping air intakes and a bright paintjob, it really looks the part. Daytime-running LEDs add to the visual appeal.  As for that colour, the OPC looks like it drove over some Smurfs. It’s certainly eye-catching.

Powerful 2.0-litre engine

So it looks mean, but can it deliver in the performance stakes? How does 206kW and 400Nm from a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder sound?

Mechanically 2.0-litre four-cylinder engines have never really satisfied in terms of noise, but thanks to some clever tweaks to the exhaust and intake the Astra OPC offers a weapons-grade soundtrack. As the revs start to build, the turbocharger starts powering up and the resulting sound can be compared to a fighter jet with full afterburners.

This noise is greatly exaggerated when you fold the back seats down, allowing the exhaust note to reach the cabin. Lift off the gas or blip the throttle on downshift, and you’re treated to some small backfires out the twin pipes. As far as hot hatches go, the Astra OPC is an audio treat. I’ve never encountered such a violent sound upon hard acceleration and Opel is to be commended for being unsubtle in its quest to make a candidate for the ultimate hot hatch.

Performance-orientated driving experience

Those performance figures mean the Astra OPC is no slouch and gets up to the national speed limit in a brisk and loud fashion. While it impressed in overtaking ability and acceleration, I enjoyed how composed it was on a tight and twisty road. Most front-wheel drive hot hatches would understeer themselves into the nearest tree, but the OPC has a brilliant suspension setup called FlexRide and HiPerStrut as well as a mechanical limited slip differential.

Space limitations mean I can’t explain how these systems work but to put it simply, you can put your foot flat in a corner and there’s no loss of grip. It’s frightening how fast the Astra OPC can go around the tightest of bends without any hint of wheel spin or loss of grip.

When you look at the component suppliers for this vehicle you can see Opel only wanted the best in the high-performance business. Brembo brakes, Drexler specially developed the mechanical limited-slip differential and ZF Sachs-tuned suspension settings all mean the OPC is very fast. Let’s not forget the Pirelli-supplied tyres either…

Then there are the three driving modes. Eco mode is self-explanatory, Sport sharpens up the throttle response and makes the suspension a little firmer. OPC mode is best saved for the smoothest of open roads or a race track, as the results are brutal. The dashboard lighting goes from white to red: a sign that things are going to become extreme. The accelerator pedal becomes very responsive and the suspension stiffens to rock hard: a little uncomfortable for the public road, hence my suggestion to head to a race track.

The downside of this performance is that you pay for it at the pumps. The Opel Astra OPC has fuel-saving tech in the form of Start/Stop and an ECO mode, but that won’t see your fuel consumption figure dip below 11L/100km. I tried my best and could only get 11.8L/100km. Do I care? Not a chance. It’s worth it.

Opel Astra OPC cabin and features

The interior is decent, but doesn’t feel luxurious – a problem when you’re spending near R500k for a hot hatch. While the Nappa leather adjustable bucket seats are quite easily the best in class, the intense myriad of buttons is daunting at first glance and it took me some time to figure out which button does what. Then there’s that LCD screen. While it’s adequate for lesser-powered Astras, I feel the flagship OPC deserves something better like a colour screen. Surely the touchscreen infotainment system from sister brand Chevrolet’s Lumina would be more appropriate?

You get a decent amount of kit fitted as standard to the Astra OPC. There’s a USB port, Bluetooth connectivity, high-quality audio system, automatic Xenon lights which swivel as you turn, auto wipers, G-force meter, lap timer, rear park distance control as well as a double decker boot. It also features back seats which are usable by adults.

Plenty of boot space comes at a price though, as you don’t get a spare wheel. There is a tyre repair kit in its place.  It’s safe too with six airbags, stability control, brake assist as well as an electronic park brake which offers hill hold assist.

Opel Astra OPC price in South Africa

You can get yourself an Opel Astra OPC for only R453 500.

Opel Astra OPC review conclusion

Many who saw the OPC’s R450k price tag expressed horror and I too was a little disappointed in how much it cost. When you consider other offerings like the Ford Focus ST and Volkswagen Golf GTI, the OPC looks silly. Then I had a revelation. Opel couldn’t care less about the GTI and the ST. Those cars offer less in terms of ability and sheer enjoyment, and the Astra OPC is actually aimed at the likes of the new Audi S3, BMW M135i and Volkswagen’s R products. When you consider the R498 000 price tag of the BMW and the R474 500 for the Audi, you have to wonder how much more car you’re getting for the extra money.

Why you should:

One of the most badass cars around, superb handling, stellar power combined with addictive engine note, one for the enthusiasts.

Why you shouldn’t:

Raw power may be too much for day-to-day, thirsty, the front lip scrapes on speedbumps and driveways.

It would be better if:

That dated LCD screen in the centre dashboard. Surely there’s a more modern version lying around in the GM parts bin? Make that fuel tank bigger.

Competitors worth checking out:

Audi S3, BMW M135i, Volkswagen Golf R, Volkswagen Scirocco R, Renault Megane RS265 Trophy

Opel Astra OPC gallery

Nissan NP300 Hardbody Silver Anniversary Limited Edition Launched In SA


Nissan has announced they will be launching limited edition versions of their iconic NP300 Hardbody one-ton bakkie in South Africa to commemorate 25 years of continuous sales of the Hardbody nameplate.

Unique versions feature special extras

NP300 Hardbody Product Manager at Nissan South Africa, Vishaan Naidoo, says that the new limited editions in the NP300 Hardbody range are an expression of the proud heritage of the Hardbody in the country.

He further said that in keeping with the NP300 Hardbody’s reputation for reliability, durability and most importantly its attractive cost of ownership, they have created the “Silver Anniversary” Limited Edition models which feature a host of functional additions and unique touches, while retaining a very attractive price.

“For 25 years the Nissan NP300 Hardbody one-ton pick-up has been a significant part of the South African motoring landscape, so it is only fitting that we celebrate this important milestone appropriately.”

The Nissan NP300 Hardbody Silver Anniversary Limited Edition will be available in single- or double-cab body styles. Each boasting unique special features set to differentiate them from the rest of the range. They will also be equipped with the 2.5-litre turbocharged diesel engine and 4×2 drive trains.

According to Nissan, the NP300 Hardbody 2.5 TDi Silver Anniversary Limited Edition Single Cab derivative includes over R15 000 worth of accessories and detail changes. These include “Silver Anniversary” branded leather seats, rubberised load box, black nudge bar, black running boards, leather door panels, branded carpets and tinted windows.

The double-cab version includes all of the extras of the single-cab, along with an integrated DVD and satellite navigation system with reversing camera, branded leather seats, silver nudge bar, leather door panels, tonneau cover, Bluetooth, USB and iPod connectivity – all of which Nissan says equates to almost R30 000 worth of extras.

Nissan NP300 Hardbody Silver Anniversary price in South Africa

Nissan NP300 Hardbody Silver Anniversary 2.5 TDi Single Cab 4×2 –  R255 000

Nissan NP300 Hardbody Silver Anniversary 2.5 TDi Double Cab 4×2 – R335 000

Both special edition models come standard with a six-year or 150 000km warranty and three-year or 90 000km service plan (intervals of 15 000km).

Nissan NP300 Hardbody Silver Anniversary gallery


SAAB 9-3 Officially Back In Production


Saab has announced that production of the 9-3 sedan will resume at their Tollhattan assembly plant in Sweden.

Saab back after two years of bankruptcy

The Swedish car manufacturer was founded in 1947 and was an independent automaker until 1989 when General Motors began the decade-long process of acquiring it. However in 2010, GM sold Saab Automobile AB to the Dutch automobile manufacturer Spyker Cars.

After struggling to avoid insolvency throughout 2011, the company petitioned for bankruptcy, which is when much of the company’s assets were acquired by National Electric Vehicle Sweden (NEVS), which in turn is partially owned by the Chinese city of Qingdao.

In early 2011 SAAB closed up shop while being under the control of Spyker. On June 13, 2012, it was announced that a newly formed company called National Electric Vehicle Sweden (NEVS) had bought Saab Automobile’s bankrupt estate. In September 2013, SAAB started to roll off pre-production 9-3 models and now they have announced regular production series will commence before the end of the year.

The new SAAB 9-3

Details about the car are limited at the moment, but NEVS spokesman Mikael Oestlund said it will be very similar to the 2011MY 9-3 and will be offered with a turbocharged petrol engine.

A facelift and China-only electric version is also planned for 2014, and the 9-3 will be sold initially in Europe and China, and in other markets later on.

Oestlund said that initial production levels at their factory in western Sweden will be ‘modest’ and rise if demand grows.

“You can’t change or develop very much in a year. We acquired the assets in August last year. Our focus has been to get the co-operation up and running with 400 suppliers and ensure the facilities were working,” he continued.

“We are humble and say we’ll start the production volume with low figures and be able to increase over time according to the market’s demand.”

SAAB 9-3 gallery

Chevrolet Cruze Now With Turbo Power


Turbocharged derivatives have been added to both body styles of the Chevrolet Cruze ranges in South Africa, marking the first time turbocharged Chevrolets have been available in South Africa. The new turbo models also add minor upgrades to the refreshed model line-up.

New fuel- efficient engine

The Cruze is fitted with a 1.4-litre turbocharged ECOTEC petrol engine which now produces 103kW of power between 4900rpm and 6000rpm and 200Nm of torque between 1850rpm and 4 900rpm.

The four-cylinder unit has a dual overhead camshaft with variable valve timing and a multi-point injection fuel system and also features a standard start/stop technology.

Featured in the Chevrolet Cruze 1.4T LS Sedan and Cruze 1.4T LS Hatch models, the new powertrain returns a claimed combined fuel economy of 5.8 litres/100km, with corresponding CO2 emissions of 135g/km each. Both models come standard with a six-speed manual gearbox.

Upgraded features

Striking new design features include optional new 17-inch alloy, LED side indicators integrated into the door mirrors on all models, and a chrome belt line on the Hatch. Two new colours are also available – Mars Stone Blue and Blue Sapphire.

Other standard equipment applicable to LS and LT-spec models includes one-touch up/down driver and front passenger windows, while LS-specific options include leather upholstery, a sunroof and the ‘Driver’s Pack’ which incorporates automatic climate control and rear parking sensors.

Advanced active and passive safety systems

The safety architecture of the local Cruze sedan and hatch models is based on the original design which has earned top five-star safety ratings from both Euro NCAP and the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Some of the advanced active safety systems include Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control and four-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).

All Cruze LS and LT models are equipped with five three-point seatbelts and six standard airbags. Safety seats for children can be secured using the ISOFIX anchoring system on the two rear outboard positions.

The Cruze 1.4T LS Sedan and Hatch derivatives replace the 1.8 LS Sedan and Hatch models. The two hatchback derivatives and five sedan derivatives complete a seven-model range in South Africa.

Chevrolet Cruze price in South Africa

Chevrolet Cruze 1.6 LS 5DR Hatch – R227 000

Chevrolet Cruze 1.4T LS 5DR Hatch – R242 100

Chevrolet Cruze 1.6 4DR Sedan – R219 100

Chevrolet Cruze 1.6 LS 4DR Sedan – R229 200

Chevrolet Cruze 1.4T LS 4DR Sedan – R244 700

Chevrolet Cruze 2.0 LS 4DR Diesel Sedan M/T – R275 100

Chevrolet Cruze 2.0 LT 4DR Diesel Sedan A/T – R296 200

All Chevrolet Cruze derivatives are sold inclusive of a 5-year/ 120 000 km warranty and a 3-year/ 60 000 km service plan.

Chevrolet Cruze gallery