A few weeks ago Rolls-Royce unveiled the Phantom Ghawwass Edition and now commissioned by the companys dealership in Dubai, its back with the Phantom Bespoke Chicane Coupe to add to its Bespoke Collection.
Hand-crafted features
The Phantom Bespoke Chicane Coupe draws inspiration from the Goodwood Motor Circuit. It features a two-tone matte black and gunmetal exterior with matching alloy wheels, while the interior features checkered flag motif stitching, carbon fibre trim in place of the traditional interior wood, red leather seats, piano black accents and a metal plaque inside the glove compartment which features the Goodwood track layout.
I wanted to create a motor car that captures the unique atmosphere and history of the Goodwood Motor Circuit. The Home of Rolls-Royces connection to such an important centre of British motoring heritage is something that fascinates my customers, said Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Dubai Brand Manager, Mohammed EL-Arishy.
The creativity, vision, skill and attention-to-detail employed in the crafting of these one-off motor cars are unsurpassed in the super-luxury world.
Engine capability
The Phantom Bespoke Chicane Coupe is equipped with a 6.75-litre V12 engine producing 338kW and 720Nm of torque. This enables the car to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 5.8 seconds and hit a top speed of 250km/h.
The vehicle was built as a one-off and theres no word whether or not it will go on sale, however if it does happen, well make sure to bring you all the details.
Rolls-Royce Phantom Bespoke Chicane Coupe gallery
Kia Sorento Review
The Sorento has had an upgrade, but is pretty much a brand new vehicle, now better looking than ever. Pity Kia doesnt release sales figures, because I think the last Sorento did quite well by the looks of how many are still on the road. Its Kias biggest SUV that offers loads of space, powerful engines, and lots of specification
How does it look
Well, the pictures speak for themselves, and in my opinion Kia has got styling spot on. Its adventurous enough without being alienating to the bland Nissan Tiida loving masses. I particularly like the grille and the bright rear lights.
Whats it like inside
The interior comes stock standard with full leather treatment, and can seat 7. The rear seats obviously only for children still leave some space for bags (280l, 1087l with 3rd row down). However they are comfortable, with individual vents in the door pillars. Materials are soft to the touch, expected at this price range, and dont have that plasticky feel.
Theres a tiny screen for the above average sound system, which did not have RDS and produced sound somewhat like listening to radio through a tin cup. When fully open, the optional panoramic sunroof ads even more space to the interior, but thankfully has an electronic cloth cover to protect the middle aged scalp from burning. Theres a host of standard equipment including PDC, reverse camera, heated & cooled seating, active xenon headlamps, Bluetooth and digital speedometer which did look quite cool. You wont suffer for space to put things either, with a massive central binnacle, cupholders and no less than TWO 12v sockets and an Aux and USB connection.
How does it handle
Its comfortable without being too roley-poley, but is obviously no BMW X5. With self-leveling suspension in the AWD model, but only 184mm ground clearance youre not going to head into Botswana. That said, youll do just fine with the AWD system in mud or gravel which can send 50% of the power to the rear wheels, and can be locked in this mode up to 40km/h. Its more city slicker with off-road prowess than bundu-basher, so definitely no Fortuner rival in that sense. Kia has done work to make sure the Sorento is more refined, and you can feel it, with surprisingly quiet engine and low noise and vibration levels at highway speeds, making the Fortuner feel like an ox-wagon in comparison here.
The engine and gearbox
A 2.2litre turbo diesel unit puts out a very respectable 146kW and 436NM torque through a 6-speed auto gearbox. The gearbox does a perfectly ok job of changing smoothly and fairly quickly. That said, the torque converter does a lot of clutch slip and can be slow off the mark if you really jam the accelerator down. I was surprised at how gutsy the unit is, considering the size of the vehicle. Fuel consumption respectable, combined highway and city driving delivered just over 10l/100km.
Brakes and Steering
Probably one of the worst assets of the Sorento is the steering. The main gripe from journalists alike about Kia vehicles has been lifeless steering. So, Kia introduced FlexSteer, which varies steering sensitivity and feel in three settings of Sport, Comfort and Normal. Nice in theory, not so nice in execution. It still feels too assisted or too tight and pulls too strongly to centre. Arcade game like at best. The brakes are up to the task and feature every safety system on offer, but have a very wooden feeling to them.
Overall
Not so subtle improvements improve refinement and specification in an eye-catching offering for those on the market for a large SUV. That said, the price is steep considering the competition. At R499 000 for this top AWD model, even considering all the standard specification, there are more premium, albeit slightly smaller, German rivals that may appeal too.
Kia Sorento Price in South Africa
Kia Sorento 2,2 7 Seat AWD AT 147/436NM R489 995
Representing another exclusive model as part of the companys 50th anniversary celebrations, Lamborghini has officially revealed the Veneno Roadster which will be built in a limited number of nine-units and only comes with a rollover bar for added stability.
Eccentric design elements
Described as an open racing prototype, the design of the Veneno Roadster is focused on optimum aerodynamics and stability, with handling synonymous with racing prototypes. The lower curb weight is the result of a lightweights design with a carbon fibre monochrome and CRFP exterior body parts.
The interior also features some woven carbon fibre finishes, with the two lightweight bucket seats made from Lamborghinis patented Forged Composite.
It features the same drastic styling and 12-cylinder powertrain as the Veneno Coupe which delivers 552kW of power pushed to all four wheels via an ISR transmission with five selectable modes.
This setup allows the Veneno Roadster to accelerate from 0-100km/h in 2.9 seconds which is a fraction of a second longer to the coupe. Despite the aerodynamic setup configured for extreme downforce, the Veneno Roadster has a low wind resistance which allows it reach a top speed of 355 km/h.
Lamborghini has confirmed that the production of the nine cars will begin 2014.
Lamborghini Veneno Roadster gallery
BMW 316i Auto Review
BMWs 3 Series is continually in the top 10 vehicles sold in South Africa, with over 1100 units sold per month in 2013. Theres no denying the incredible breadth of the 3 series, appealing to both the dynamic and more relaxed Sunday driver.
The 316i is the newest addition to the range. The previous generation did away with the 316 and 318, with these engines only featuring in the 1 series. Thank goodness, because they lacked torque and power and had a nasty 4-cylinder twang, but BMW fixed that with the new 316i engine that has been doing justice in the new 1series range.
The new engine
The new 316i brings with it a brand new 4-cylinder 1.6-litre engine, featuring TwinTurbo Power technology that pushes out 100kW and 220Nm of torque. Its considerably more than the previous 316i and does an excellent job at moving around the 3series body.
Yes theres some turbo lag, and the 4cylinder powerplant doesnt have huge amounts of low down torque, but once youre in the turbo rev zone youre a-for-away. On the move theres enough power to overtake, but the auto box does need to get down a few gears to access the power. That said, it does still have the familiar 4-cylinder twang, but only high up in the rev range.
Gearbox and drive
A huge contributor to the highly accessible nature of the engine is the 8-speed auto box which does justice in the rest of the 3series range. It does a superb job of making sure youre always in the right gear, and I never had to mash the throttle down to get it into the right gear. Opt for the Auto, nobody wants clutch leg, and this isnt the engine for a manual.
Thankfully, driving dynamics is standard, which is one of the best types of drive selection systems on the market today. When in eco-mode, the vehicle is totally relaxed, and over a short period of time I was able to gain 7km in usable driving distance by driving economically as suggested. Claimed consumption is at 6.2l/100km, however I achieved close to 7.5l/100km in a mix of highway and city driving. Switch to Sport and the 316i livens up, gearing down quicker, and a more response throttle and steering rewards the driver.
Handling
My test unit came with the Sport package which gave it 18-inch rims and runflat low profile rubber, providing a somewhat sportier ride. Not to fear, the standard 3series runs on fat rubber and 17inch rims leaving a much more comfortable ride, but sacrificing a bit of the excellent 3 series handling. Its your choice here, but due to dynamic drive settings the 3 series is one of the most dynamically capable and yet comfortable sedans on the road today, whatever the tyre spec.
Interior
The interior is equipped with quality materials, solid tactile feel and improved space in the back seats. Theres also more space in the boot, which might bode well for those purchasing this as a family run around.
My test unit came with quite a few extras, but the standard 316i is sparsely kitted out with faux leather seats, manual aircon, fat rubber on the tires and smaller simpler rims, and a single exhaust. Electric windows, mirrors, on board computer, iDrive for functions and aux-plug in is however standard. I was a bit surprised that the reading lights had been removed. Surely those cant be that expensive, even the Polo has those! Youll have to spend a little bit of money to spec it with some creature comforts.
Overall
The 316i Auto brings the 3series into range for many who wouldnt be able to afford the 320i. BMW is currently (correct at time of publishing) offering great deals on the 316i, which will definitely get bums into seats. That said, consider looking at a second hand 320i, where youd get more standard kit. With near on R40 000 difference between 316i and 320i you have to be very careful with options on the 316i, spec too heavily and you might as well buy the more powerful and better equipped 320i, or the very well equipped and stylish VW Passat.
2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Exposed In Leaked Image
Leaked images showing off the exterior of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class have surfaced on the web, after the brand officially released some images revealing the cars updated interior along with information on what technology the refreshed model will be packing.
From the image, the model looks slightly larger and like a cross between the new S-Class and the CLA with many omitted edges replaced by smooth lines.
Updated distinctive interior features
The interior design of this fourth-generation 2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class boasts a refined layout and a premium finish, and will be offered with a 7-inch free standing central display or an optional 8.4-inch colour monitor along with an optional head-up display and a touch control pad. The head-up display will be about 1.8 metres in front of the driver and will project information on speed, speed limits, navigation instructions and messages from the Distronic Plus system.
There will also be an innovative AC system which uses GPS data to detect tunnels to automatically close the air recirculation flap so that fume filled air wont enter the cabin. The front passenger seat will feature a sensor which will disengage the front passenger airbag once it detects a child seat is in place. Also coming to the C-Class from the S-Class is Mercedes intelligent drive suite of driver aides, including autonomous braking, radar-based cruise control and lane-keep assist.
Engine specs and other details are yet to be released, however depending on the engine choice, theres a possibility to order an optional Airmatic air suspension which will allow the driver to choose between Comfort, Eco, Sport and Sport Plus modes.
Full details will be revealed by Mercedes-Benz at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show or even more sooner than that.
2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class gallery
2014 Nissan Qashqai Teased Ahead Of Official Reveal
Spotted numerous times wrapped in black plastic bags and wearing camouflage, Nissan has released a teaser image of the 2014 second-generation Qashqai set to be fully revealed next week.
Pushing the boundaries of design and innovation
The 2014 Nissan Qashqai will be available in a brand new turbocharged 1.2-litre petrol DiG-T engine producing 84kW and a 1.5-litre dCi engine producing 80kW. There will also be a larger 1.6-litre dCi with an output of 95kW. In addition to that, the 1.5-litre diesel unit will gain a new turbo and other enhancements said to improve torque and reduce fuel consumption.
The second generation of the 2014 Nissan Qashqai will also apparently ride on the Common Module Family architecture co-developed with Renault, and is likely to receive hybrid/electric derivatives in its life cycle. Front wheel drive will be standard on the Qashqai with permanent four-wheel drive optional.
Expected to be more upscale than previous models, the new model will supposedly have an innovative design with styling cues taken from the Hi-Cross Concept revealed at the Geneva Motor Show last year. Spy photos however show the model as having a curved body structure with a prominent grille and a sloping rear end, sweptback headlights and a tailgate-mounted spoiler.
Nissan has confirmed that the car will be revealed in full at 15:00 UK time on November 7, and describes the car as a model that will redefine the crossover sector and set new standards across the board.
We will keep you updated on any new developments and additional information regarding the vehicle.
Land Rover Introduces 2014 Range Rover Long Wheelbase
To extend its customer appeal, Land Rover has introduced the 2014 Range Rover Long Wheelbase Autobiography Black ahead of its public debut at the 2013 Dubai Motor Show. This L version, based on the fourth-generation SUV which debut about a year ago is the first Range Rover long wheelbase in 20 years.
Long wheelbase extends customer appeal
The 2014 Range Rover Long Wheelbase edition measures 5.2 m in length and features considerably longer rear doors and increased rear legroom by 140mm for rear seat passengers. Boosted recline to 17 degrees and executive seating package provides enhanced comfort and space. For added convenience, the long wheelbase is equipped with powered side door blinds and a panoramic sunroof as standard, as well as increased stowage.
This L version will also be available for the Autobiography and Autobiography Black models and a Hybrid derivative which will be starting next year.
A new range-topping trim level
In addition to introducing the stretched wheelbase model, Land Rover has also announced a new Autobiography Black trim level. It has an interior that has been carefully crafted and tailored to meet customer needs with subtle but distinctive exterior detailing and is appointed and finished with the highest quality leathers and materials. Also it will come with two exclusive sets of seven-spoke 21- and 22-inch alloy wheels featuring a high gloss polished finish.
Further, the Autobiography Black will offer unique seat cover designs along with the Executive Class seating package. An extended centre console with electrically powered folding tables finished with black leather and will feature integrated USB charging sockets, along with more traditional functions like cup holders.
There will also be a chiller compartment with space for glasses and bottles, and it will be available only in the long-wheelbase version. The rear seats in the Autobiography Black edition will offer lumbar massage. While the whole interior will feature LED mood lighting in a range of 10 colours. Completing the look will be the Black enamel and chrome accents throughout the exterior.
The brand claims both derivatives exude Land Rover’s renowned breadth of capability and performance. First customer deliveries will start in March 2014 for the long wheelbase and August 2014 for the Range Rover Autobiography Black.
Land Rover South Africa has confirmed that these models will be available in SA towards the end of 2014.
2014 Range Rover Long Wheelbase gallery
Fiat 500L Launches In South Africa Specs and Prices
The Fiat 500L which expands the line-up of the 500 series was first presented at the 2012 International Geneva Motor Show, and is now available in South Africa with a choice of two engines.
Engine capabilities
According to Fiat, both the 1.4-litre engine delivering 70kW and the 1.6-litre MultiJet 2 engine delivering 77kW are distinguished by their lower polluting emissions and CO2 levels, corresponding to real economic benefit in everyday use for the customer. Both engines are also mated to the standard 6-speed manual transmission.
Comfort in the car is a result of the MacPherson-strut front suspension has a hollow anti-roll bar to add both lightness and rigidity while the rear torsion beam that has been updated to ensure control and comfort at top levels and remove the need for a rear anti-roll bar.
Exterior design features
Designed as an alternative to traditional B and C segment cars, the five-door model is labelled as an MPV that has the feel of a small SUV. It has ample seating for five people with dimensions measuring 4.15 m long, 1.78 m wide and 1.66 m high and also has a 2.61 m wheelbase which results in a large interior space, including the luggage compartment, which boasts a capacity of almost 400 litres.
The Fiat 500L has 360° glazing to ensure best-in-class visibility, while the glass roof – the largest in its category with a size of 1.5 m2 is available in two versions: electric roof or Skydome.
Extensive colour range and trim options
The car will also be available in a choice of seven body colours – red, white, blue, cream, metallic red and two shades of metallic grey. In addition, there are three designs of alloy rims and two interior trim levels to choose from.
The Lounge trim comes with either a suede beige dashboard and panelling, beige and dark grey fabric and a two-tone black and beige steering wheel, or a suede grey dashboard and panelling, black and grey upholstery and the same two-tone black and beige steering wheel.
The Easy trim comes with either a beige soft-touch dashboard and panelling, magnesium/beige fabric upholstery and a two-tone black and beige steering wheel, or a grey dashboard and panelling, red and grey fabric upholstery and the same two-tone black and grey steering wheel.
Simple onboard technology
The 500L is the first car of the Fiat group to be equipped with the new-generation Uconnect infotainment platform, which can manage media content on the car such as the radio, cellphone, media player, iPod or smartphone as well as the navigation system – all hands-free.
There’s also a 5-inch touchscreen, a USB port and an AUX-IN connector, as well as a Bluetooth interface that gives you access to call management, voice recognition (in 11 languages), reading received text messages out aloud and audio streaming from your smartphone, based on the Windows Embedded Automotive operating system.
A future development will also let you use a number of apps to stay in constant contact with Facebook and Twitter or get real-time updates on news, traffic and weather.
The new Fiat 500L standard equipment includes six airbags front, window and side airbags – front headlights with DRL (Daytime Running Lights) function and fog lights with the self-adaptive cornering function. The model also comes standard with ABS, BAS (Brake Assist System) and ESC (Electronic Stability Control) that intervenes in driving conditions close to the limit.
Fiat 500L Price
Fiat 500L 1.4l 16V Easy R232 990
Fiat 500L 1.4l 16V Lounge R247 990
Fiat 500L 1.6l MultiJet Lounge R287 990
The 500L comes standard with a 3 year/100 000km warranty and maintenance plan.
Fiat 500L gallery
GWM M4 Makes A Bold Statement At JIMS 2013
GWM previewed the striking M4 at the 2013 Johannesburg International Motor Show.
The GWM M4 Compact Crossover
Dubbed the urban warrior aimed at the young and trendy at heart, the M4 is powered by GWMs proven 1.5-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine with intelligent variable valve timing producing 77kW at 6000 rpm and 138Nm at 4200 rpm.
On the styling front the GWM M4 boasts an individualistic design, high ground clearance (180 mm+), 16-inch alloy wheels and comprehensive standard specification that include air-conditioning, electric windows and mirrors, power steering, rear park sensors, radio/CD/MP3 player with USB and auxiliary support, as well as Bluetooth.
Safety equipment offered as standard consist of dual front airbags, disc brakes all-round supported with ABS with EBD and rear-mounted Isofix child seat anchorages.
GWM is confident that the M4 will be as successful in South Africa as it has been in its home market. At JIMS, Tony Pinfold, the companys chairman, stated that the M4 would be offered for well below R200 000 when it launches locally within the next few months.
GWM M4 gallery
Hyundai At The 2013 Johannesburg International Motor Show
Hyundai took the opportunity to demonstrate some of their hidden innovations at the 2013 Johannesburg International Motor Show.
The best of Hyundai at JIMS 2013
The brand unveiled the long awaited Veloster Turbo packed with a turbo-charged 150kW direct injection petrol engine, and is the first model in South Africa to feature an engine with a high-compression and twin-scroll turbo-charger. This model is due to be launched on local roads in the first half of 2014.
This year at the show, Hyundai introduced the #findthefeature competition which allows show-goers planning on visiting the Hyundai stand to register for an RFID tag via Facebook; on the Hyundai website or on the stand itself, where they will then be encouraged to search the stand for 5 specific hidden features within the Hyundai range. The person who identifies all 5 features and tags them via the RFID tag stands a chance to win a weekend away in a Hyundai vehicle of their choice.
Hyundai also took the opportunity to present a limited edition, once-off, customised Santa Fe wrapped in a matt black finish with custom 22-inch alloy wheels. Also on display was the facelifted ix35 and Elantra.
The brand has since confirmed that in the next four years they will be introducing new products and product enhancements which include the i10 Grand and the new Genesis saloon for 2014.
There is still time for you to go down to the Hyundai stand before the show ends on Sunday to see some of the vehicles on display.
