Fiat 500L Living officially revealed

Italian automaker Fiat has introduced the seven seat Fiat 500L Living model which is set to expand its hatchback offering.

Fiat 500L Living – The new model of the 500 family

At launch the Fiat 500L Living model will be available with a 1.4-litre petrol engine producing 70kW, a 0.9-litre TwinAir Turbo petrol engine producing 77kW, a 1.3-litre MultiJet II diesel developing 62kW, and a 1.6-litre MultiJet II diesel also developing 77kW.

Described as the new Magic Purpose Wagon, the Fiat 500L Living has all the charm of the 500, the agility of a city-car and versatility of an MPV. While the standard 500L has a five-passenger seating configuration, the new Fiat 500L Living brings a third row of seats, upping capacity to seven passengers. This model is also the only car in the segment with a load capacity of 638-litres.

The range will include two trim levels (Pop Star and Lounge) both with five or seven seats, 19 body colours (including 11 two-tone combinations) and six interior trims, 15 different types in terms of alloy wheels and hub caps. Additionally the Fiat 500L Living offers high quality equipment as demonstrated by the new leather interiors, integrated navigation system and rear camera assist with reversing manoeuvres.

It is unclear whether the Fiat 500L Living will be available in South Africa.

New Citroen C3 launched in South Africa

The new Citroen C3 has been launched and comes with added spunk, thanks to a package of changes that add mechanical zest, visual appeal and enhanced driving pleasure.

New Citroen C3 offers low fuel consumption

Engine Capability

The new Citroen C3 is powered by a 1.2-litre three-cylinder Puretech petrol engine, and at 60kW it has more power than the previous larger 1.4-litre engine it replaces, yet matches its torque output of 118Nm.

According to Citroen, fuel consumption levels can be as low as 4.7-litres/100km, achieved with a CO2 output of 109 g/km.

Further, the previous mid-range 1.4 16-valve engine has fallen away, and Citroen has replaced it with a 1.6-litre VTi petrol engine, which produces 88kW of power and 160Nm of torque. Also still available is the1.6-litre e-HDi turbodiesel unit which develops 68kW of power and 230Nm of torque. CO2 emissions can be expected to reach a low 98 g/km, and fuel consumption can be rated at 3.7-litres/100 km.

Enhanced Exterior and Interior Features

Big changes to the visual appeal of the new Citoren C3 include bumper-mounted LED daytime running lights on Seduction and Exclusive models, more prominent trademark chevrons which run the width of the nose to reach the inner edges of the headlights, while a deeper front air intake with honeycomb mesh brings it in line with other Citroen models. The chrome eyebrow above the taillight clusters now features distinctive ‘pockets’ for each lighting function. A new Ink Blue colour expands the choice of six hues.

Inside, the new Citroen C3 has been styled with touches of chrome, while a new dashboard cross strip is finished in Tungsten or Moondust colours that compliment the new upholstery which comes in three distinct textures. Bright metal finishes highlight the models specific controls.

The new Citroen C3 will be available in three trim lines namely Attraction, Seduction and Exclusive. Exclusive models can be ordered with a reverse camera and park distance sensors, a satellite navigation system and it comes fitted with an enhanced infotainment package and six airbags. All three spec levels include ABS, EBD, and OBA, ISOFIX, impact tensioning seatbelts and side impact protection.

New Citroen C3 – Price

View the new Citroen C3

Citroen C3 1.2 VTi 82 Attraction R166 900
Citroen C3 1.2 VTi 82 Seduction R177 900
Citroen C3 1.6 e-HDi 90 Seduction R213 900
Citroen C3 1.6 VTi 120 Seduction R196 900
Citroen C3 1.6 VTi 120 Seduction Auto R211 900
Citroen C3 1.6 VTi 120 Exclusive R222 900

Standard price includes a three-year 100 000 km warranty (with an optional extension to 5 years or 100 000km) and a four-year/60 000 km service plan.

2014 BMW 4 Series Coupe revealed

The new BMW 4 Series coupe has been officially revealed and heralds a new coupe era at BMW. The 4 Series will launch as a 2014 model and will include the 428i and 435i offerings with xDrive all-wheel drive available as an option on both models.

4-Series Engine Capability

The entry level BMW 4 Series Coupe, the 428i, is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine that develops 179kW of power and 345Nm of torque. This allows the coupe to sprint from 0-100km/h in 5.7 seconds and hit an electronically-limited top speed of 250km/h.

As an alternative, the more powerful 4 Series 435i is fitted with a 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine that produces 224kW and 406Nm of torque. This enables the 435i to accelerate from 0-100km/h in 5.3 seconds with the six-speed manual and reach an electronically-limited top speed of 250 km/h.

Exterior Design Features

Compared to the outgoing 3 Series Coupe, the new BMW 4 Series Coupe is visibly larger in width and wheelbase, and its stretched silhouette sits considerably lower to the road. The 4 Series is also distinguished by revised bumpers and front fender vents/Air Breathers that channel air out of the wheel arches to reduce drag.

The typical BMW short overhangs, long hood, and set back passenger compartment with flowing roofline give the 4 Series Coupe a visual balance. So does the striking front end design with double-kidney grille, four round headlights and a large air intake in the front apron.

Interior Design Features

The interior of the new 4 Series coupe incorporates sporty styling and quality materials. Some notable features include central controls arranged ergonomically around the driver, automatic seat belt valets, a sport steering wheel, circular instruments in black-panel look, and a flat-screen iDrive monitor. The iDrive Controller located for easy reach on the centre console and the armrest between the front seats give the cabin usability and comfort.

The backrest of the BMW 4 Series Coupe’s rear seat can be folded down in 40:20:40 segments, while in the rear compartment, contoured seats bring the sportiness of the 4 Series Coupe to all passengers. Recessed head restraints and continuously moulded side supports give the rear bench the appearance of two separate seats.

BMW 4 Series Coupe packed with impressive technology

The new BMW 4 Series Coupe uses a combination of driver assistance systems and mobility services to increase, comfort and infotainment usage ease and convenience. These include a new generation BMW Navigation System, sharper graphics and 3D elements for the map display, full-colour BMW Head-Up Display, Driving Assistant Plus, intelligent glare-free LED High Beam Assistant, and BMW Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go.

Three different trim lines will be available on the 4 Series coupe including Luxury, Sport, and M Sport. The Sport package comes with gloss black accents, a sport-tuned suspension and 18-inch twin-spoke alloy wheels. The Luxury package includes chrome accents, leather seats and high-gloss wood trim. The M Sport package comes with an aerodynamic body kit, shadow line trim and 18-inch or optional 19-inch light alloy M-style wheels. There’s also a sports suspension, high-performance brakes and an M-spec interior.

Prices for the BMW 4 Series Coupe in South Africa have not yet been confirmed, however, the model will go on sale locally in October2013.

VW sales in South Africa for May 2013

VW sales in South Africa grew by 9.8% (passenger vehicles) in the first five months of 2013 when compared to the same period in 2012. The sales performance has further strengthened Volkswagen Group South Africa’s leadership position in the South African passenger car market in 2013. VW’s passenger car market share comes in at 23.8%, with Audi also gaining further market share in the premium segment. Here is a breakdown of Volkswagen sales in South Africa, including the top 5 model sales and the most popular Volkswagen used cars for May 2013.

VW sales in South Africa for May 2013

  • Total new car sales: 9644 units
  • Total market share: 17.8%
  • Total passenger vehicle sales: 8782 units
  • Total Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) sales: 800 units

Top 5 Volkswagen new passenger cars for May 2013

  1. VW Polo – 2688 units
  2. VW Polo Vivo – 2645 units
  3. VW Golf 7 – 572 units
  4. VW Amarok – 503 units
  5. Audi A4 – 534 units

Most popular used Volkswagen cars in South Africa for May 2013

  1. Volkswagen Polo
  2. Volkswagen Golf
  3. Volkswagen Polo Vivo
  4. Volkswagen Citi
  5. Volkswagen Jetta

Volkswagen in the news

The Golf 1.4 TSI reviewed

Volkswagen previews the creative Design Vision GTI Concept

Sporty looks with new Volkswagen Passat R-line trim

Lexus GS350 EX Review

If you’re an executive and in the market for a new vehicle, the standard German trio of Mercedes-Benz, Audi and BMW are the first brands to spring to mind. Understandably so, these three have been aspirational brands as they offer performance, luxury and make damn good cars. Nothing quite spells out success like owning a big executive sedan. However, there is an alternative to these three and it comes from Japanese luxury car maker Lexus whose GS wants a share of this market. Meet the Lexus GS350 EX.

Lexus GS350 EX Review by David Taylor

Underwhelming looks

First impressions count and in the visual stakes, the Lexus GS350 is a little underwhelming. In a market where looks and presence count for a lot, the Lexus feels a little too generic. This isn’t helped by the gunmetal grey paint scheme either. That said, there is a delicious F-Sport bodykit which is available for the higher-specced GS450 hybrid. Despite its overall visual shortcomings, there are some pretty touches such as the daytime-running lights, integrated exhausts in chrome surrounds and a suave-looking grille.

Power like a battleship

Thankfully the average looks are offset by a damn fine engine. Powering the Lexus GS350 is a 3.5-litre V6 engine with 233kW and 378Nm, which gives this big Japanese battleship plenty of firepower. It’s deceptively quick and without too much effort, can reach the wrong side of 160km/h in a few moments. The engine revs nicely which is what you’d expect from a big luxury car, but as it climbs towards the redline, it takes on a wicked tone which makes you want to drive with your foot flat all day long. The downside of this would be horrific fuel consumption which, let’s face it, isn’t going to be exceptional either given the mass of the Lexux GS350 and its powerful engine. During the seven day test period the GS350’s fuel consumption sat around the 10.5/100km mark.

A joy to drive

Forget hard acceleration and spirited driving, this is a Lexus and it was designed to be comfortable, quiet and civilised. It does just that and it’s an absolute joy. The automatic six-speed gearbox is smooth, although when put in manual override (using the steering wheel-mounted paddles) and combined with Sport mode, the gears change with a satisfying, mechanical action.

Well-kitted out and comfortable interior

The ace in Lexus’ hand is the interior and its features. The cabin of the Lexus is extraordinarily spacious, while the boot easily takes care of two sets of golf clubs and suitcases. In terms of features, the Lexus GS350 is bristling with high-tech goodness. The big display screen in the middle of the dashboard is one of the biggest I’ve ever seen and using a funky PC mouse-like controller, you can control the ventilation, audio, satellite navigation, Bluetooth and and and. The list of gadgets fitted to this car is astonishing. The satnav features live traffic updates, there are heated and cooled leather seats, reverse camera, front/rear park sensors, auto handbrake, auto headlights, auto wipers, and it can do the unthinkable: parallel park itself. I was scared to try this system out, but I can assure it works wonderfully well especially in tight confines of Cape Town CBD.

I can only speak highly of the audio system. It’s fitted as standard and boasts crystal-clear sound. You have the option of connecting an audio device through a USB port, an Aux jack or via BlueTooth. However, the entire Lexus GS350 interface is confusing and finicky. Don’t be put off though as it just takes time to learn how it works. Or, in my case use the voice command system and tell the car what to do when you can’t find the right setting.

Lexus GS350 – Conclusion

This is one of the finest Lexus models on the market as it combines luxury features, impeccable road manners with a small performance edge. It’s not meant to be a fast car which is luxurious, but the added performance is a bonus. It ticks all the boxes if you’re wanting something big, practical and reliable, thanks to parent company Toyota’s reputation. It’s not going to give any of the German car makers sleepless nights, but it’s refreshing to see a value-for-money offering reach this segment. I’m not the only one who thinks this is a flawless car, as the Lexus GS350 EX cracked the nod for a Car of The Year nomination.

Lexus GS350 – Conclusion

  • Lexus GS350 price: R584 900
  • Why you should: Value-for-money, comfortable, has every gadget under the sun, well-built.
  • Why you shouldn’t: won’t turn as many heads as a German, the lure of a diesel engine which offers similar performance and much improved fuel economy could be strong, a little thirsty when pushing it.
  • It would be better if: a simpler command system, a diesel version.
  • View the car: New Lexus GS / Used Lexus GS
  • Competitors worth checking out: BMW 5-Series, Audi A6, Mercedes-Benz E-class

Car-to-car communication system by Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz will be the first automaker to offer car-to-car communication technology, a system which allows vehicles to communicate with other vehicles and infrastructure. The system will hit the market by the end of this year.

Mercedes Benz Car-to-car communication expands the telematic horizon

Set to launch later this year, the Mercedes-Benz car-to-car communication technology is another form of enhanced safety and convenience feature from the manufacturer. According to Mercedes, this system will also enable drivers to receive early notifications about potential dangers so they can take appropriate actions and avoid critical situations.

“With the introduction of Car-to-X technology, we are once again reaffirming our tradition as a safety pioneer, and demonstrating that we are continuing to bring innovations to the roads with benefit for both our customers, and also other road users,” said Prof. Dr Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development.

For example if an emergency vehicle is approaching from behind. With car-to-car communication, an alert will be sent to your vehicle before you see or hear that emergency vehicle. Even things like wrong-way drivers or dangerous weather conditions will be transmitted to drivers through their car communication systems.

In addition to enhancing safety and convenience, Car-to-X technology can also contribute to making mobility more efficient by using the highly precise information on traffic conditions available via Car-to-X communication. For example, to improve the flow of traffic by controlling traffic light signals.

Furthermore, Car-to-car communication technology is able to significantly expand the scope of existing vehicle sensors, such as radar or camera systems. It enables motorists to see around corners or beyond obstacles, thereby helping to reduce the blind spots from which existing sensor systems suffer.

Through the integration of Car-to-X technology in the Drive Kit Plus and the Digital DriveStyle app, Mercedes Benz is set to create ideal conditions to enable many of their customers to benefit from Car-to-car communication technology, since the technology is to be retrofitted in many Mercedes-Benz vehicles.

SEAT Leon Verde plug-in hybrid prototype revealed

Spanish automaker SEAT has unveiled a new plug-in hybrid prototype based on the new Leon hatchback. The SEAT Leon Verde prototype is described as the culmination of a four year research embodiment of the Cenit Verde project.

SEAT Leon Verde – Features

The SEAT Leon Verde is powered by a 90kW 1.4-liter TSI petrol engine, a 75 kW electric motor, and an 8.8 kWh battery, which translated into a combined maximum output of 125kW and an electric-only range of about 50 km. The SEAT Leon Verde has an overall range of 816 km which equates to a combined fuel consumption of 1.6-litres/100 km with CO2 emissions of as low as 36 g/km.

The holistic approach to electric vehicle development undertaken by the Cenit Verde project resulted not only in an entirely new electric vehicle, but an entirely new approach to charging infrastructure as well.

Technology

In keeping with its futuristic theme, the SEAT Leon Verde is equipped with an advanced Human-Machine Interface (HMI) integrated into a smartphone app including a Driving Cycle Predictor and a smart energy management system.

The smartphone app enables users to monitor things like energy consumption, battery status, recharging status and estimated CO2 savings in electric mode, while the Driving Cycle Predictor analyses and memorises the routines of the owner and then use that information to optimise energy consumption and reduce CO2 emissions. The smart energy management system recharges the battery when the rates are low, however, if the owner doesn’t have the time to wait for a charge, they can override the system and start recharging the battery immediately.

“SEAT’s leadership capability and its technological experience, which embraces the study and development of electric vehicles, have facilitated the integration of the magnificent contributions made by all participants. This partnership has underscored the first-rate competitiveness of Spanish industry,” said Fermin Soneira, Director of Whole Vehicle Development, Electro-mobility and Innovation.

According to SEAT, there are no plans to put the SEAT Leon Verde into a series production.

Winter driving tips to stay safe on the road

Winter weather can make road conditions unpredictable, and sometimes treacherous. Even though in South Africa, where winters are usually mild, unusual freezing temperatures or unexpected snow and ice may bring winter driving surprises that you’re unlikely prepared for. Like last year’s widespread snow which found a large number of motorists suddenly learning to drive all over again.

Winter driving tips

  1. Ease up on the speed when driving in snowy or iced over road conditions. Accept that you won’t be getting anywhere fast and drive as slow as you are able to without losing momentum. If you do lose momentum, it will take greater effort for your car to regain it and greater skill not to slide the vehicle in the process.
  2. Drive in a lower gear to improve traction and don’t speed up for hills, because doing so will set your wheels spinning in the snow or on ice.
  3. Keep at least three times your usual following distance to allow sufficient distance for braking. When you brake, do it gently and release the brake if your wheels start spinning. Then, if your car doesn’t have ABS, gently pump or tap the brake to slow the car down. With ABS brakes you should apply gentle but firm and constant pressure; you’ll feel a light shuddering that is perfectly normal.
  4. If your vehicle slides on the ice or snow don’t overcorrect by steering in the opposite direction to the slide, this will put your vehicle in a spin. Should your rear wheels slide to the left, steer to the left until you regain traction before gently and slowly correcting the steering in the direction you want to go.
  5. Even if ice or snow don’t make the forecast this winter, Tiger Wheel & Tyre cautions all motorists to ensure their driving safety by keeping tyres inflated to the correct pressure and making sure they have at least the 1mm minimum legal tread depth.

“Unlike countries that experience severe winters, we don’t need ‘winter tyres’ – tyres with a high silica rubber compound and special tread pattern, that perform optimally in conditions of 7°C and below, in ice, rain or snow,” says Joe du Plooy Marketing Executive of Tiger Wheel & Tyre

“We are blessed with moderate winters, but on the rare occasion when it does snow or the roads become iced over, we don’t have the experience or skill needed to drive safely under these conditions. At the very least, South African motorists should be mentally prepared for the possibility of adverse winter conditions and have a game plan for driving on ice or snow.”

*Tips provided by Tiger Wheel and Tyre

Peugeot RCZ R set for Goodwood Festival of Speed

Peugeot will internationally showcase the production version of its most powerful car to date, the Peugeot RCZ R at the Goodwood Festival of Speed taking place this July.

Peugeot RCZ R to stun at Goodwood Festival of Speed

Introduced last year at the Paris Motor Show as a concept, the Peugeot RCZ R is powered by a four-cylinder turbocharged 1.6-litre engine delivering 194kW of power and has CO2 emissions of just 155 g/km.

According to Peugeot this car also promises intense dynamic sensations from the legacy of its race-bred experiences. It is setup with a unique suspension, a specific wheel design and a new Torsen limited-slip differential to harness the huge reserves of power and torque available.

While the Goodwood Festival of Speed this year celebrates its 20th anniversary, Peugeot will also be marking 100 years since it first demonstrated its performance prowess by winning the French Grand Prix, coming in first and second.

Toyota Sales Summary for May 2013

The month of May was the strongest for Toyota since the market peaked in 2007. The brand retained its market lead with a total of 10 370 units. The Hilux maintained its top position in the brand’s top 5 cars and was South Africa’s most popular car with local sales of 3076 units. Here is a Toyota sales summary including Top 5 model sales and the most popular Toyota used cars for May 2013.

Toyota sales summary in South Africa – May 2013

  • Total new car sales: 10 370 units
  • Total market share: 19.2%
  • Total passenger vehicle sales: 5494 units
  • Total Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) sales: 4568 units

Top 5 Toyota new car sales – May 2013

  1. Toyota Hilux – 3076 units
  2. Toyota Etios – 1507 units
  3. Toyota Corolla/Auris – 1458 units
  4. Toyota Quantum – 1210 units
  5. Toyota Fortuner – 940 units

Most popular used Toyota cars in South Africa – May 2013

  1. Toyota Corolla
  2. Toyota Hilux
  3. Toyota Yaris
  4. Toyota Tazz
  5. Toyota Fortuner

Toyota in the news

The refined Toyota Yaris line up for 2013

Toyota Hilux the best selling bakkie in South Africa