After a year of trying to keep it a secret, Lexus has finally revealed its new luxury RC Coupe ahead of its official world debut at the 2013 Tokyo Motor Show.
Performance
Lexus hasnt mentioned any powertrain specs, however its suspected that the two versions of the RC Coupe will be fitted with powerful engines. The RC 350 will be equipped with a 3.5-litre V6 engine, while the RC 300h will be powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine paired with a Lexus Hybrid Drive system. Both versions are 4693 mm long, 1394 mm tall, 1838 mm wide, and come with a 2730 mm wheelbase.
Additionally, the 2015 Lexus RC Coupe is said to form basis of a new range-topping Lexus F model which will be showcased in January at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show. This RC F model will supposedly have an aggressive front fascia with a prominent spindle grille that is flanked by large air intakes, and will receive a 5.0-litre V8 that develops approximately 339kW and 543Nm of Torque, making it more powerful than the previous 5.0-litre V8 in the IS F.
Luxurious design features
Visually, the 2015 Lexus RC Coupe hints at the LF-LC and LF-CC concepts, adopting a lower and winder spindle front grille and an overall contoured shape. It features three LED lamps in the triangular headlights and might be fitted with 18-inch five-spoke muscular alloy wheels or optional 19-inch deeply sculpted ten-spoke rims with both of them featuring black and platinum centre caps.
Heavily inspired by Lexus recent concpet models, the interior of the RC Coupe will feature the manufacturers first ever lightning package with illumination reflecting upwards instead of downwards. The upper are of the dashboard will integrate the twin-binnacle instrument cluster and a seven-inch navigation display. The centre console comes with a built-in Remote Touch Interface.
Full details of the 2015 Lexus RC Coupe will be revealed at its Tokyo Motor Show debut on November 20.
2015 Lexus RC Coupe gallery
2014 BMW M3 Fully Revealed In New Video
The 2014 BMW M3 production version is not expected to make its public debut until the 2014 Detroit Auto Show, however, the model was caught undisguised while filming an official commercial.
Aggressive features
BMW has confirmed that the M4 will be powered by an all-new TwinPower Turbo 3.0-liter inline-six engine delivering approximately 316kW at 7500 rpm and more than 500Nm of torque.
Plenty of images have also been revealed confirming that the Marina Blue Metallic model will feature leather-wrapped sport seats with an M emblem below the headrest, as well as an M double-clutch seven-speed gearbox with launch control.
When it comes to styling, the M3 looks quite a lot like the concept M4 Coupe with a bulging hood and the wide vented front fenders. However this production M3 comes with an extra set of doors, aerodynamic mirrors, revised side skirts and a four-tailpipe exhaust system. And the whole front fascia is much more aggressive with bigger air intakes and LED fog lights.
Look out for more information on the 2014 BMW M3 when it makes its official debut at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show.
*Please note that the featured image is not the 2014 M3, but the concept M4 Coupe of which the M3 is based on.
2014 BMW M3 Video
2014 Porsche Panamera Turbo S More Powerful Than Its Predecessor
The 2014 Porsche Panamera Turbo S is ranked the fastest Panamera available as it is now 15kW more powerful than its predecessor.
More powerful engine
Power in the 2014 Porsche Panamera Turbo S comes from the same twin-turbo 4.8-liter engine that can be found in other Panamera’s, however it produces an extra 15kW raising the horsepower to 419kW.
The power boost is available thanks to new turbochargers with larger compressors that improve air flow and combustion. Porsche has also included some sporty enhancements such as active roll stabilisation, ceramic brakes, adaptive damper control and adjustable airbag suspension.
Acceleration from 0-96 km/h takes 3.6 seconds before reaching a top speed of 309 km/h.
Updated design features
Styling updates include a revised front bumper with bigger air intakes and reworked LED headlights, 20-inch alloy wheels apparently sourced from the 911 Turbo ll. The back of the car features a large stretched window within the tailgate, as well as a body-coloured-four-way spoiler, Palladium Metallic exterior colour and an updated bumper.
The sporty feel is upheld in the interior by the two-tone leather furnishings, 14-way power seats completed by the embossed Porsche crests on the front headrests. The 2014 Porsche Panamera Turbo S is also available in long-wheelbase form and additionally comes with features like thermal and noise-insulated windows with privacy glazing, an interior lighting package designed especially for the rear and a larger rear centre console.
The new top model in the Panamera model line will be celebrating its world premiere at the Tokyo Motor Show.
2014 Porsche Panamera Turbo S price in South Africa
The new top-of-the-range Panamera Turbo S is available for order as of now with first units being available in February 2014. The basic retail prices in South Africa for the Panamera Turbo S are:
R2 380 000 with a 3-year DrivePlan
R2 430 000 with a 5-year DrivePlan
2014 Porsche Panamera Turbo S gallery
Subaru Levorg Concept Teased
Subaru has announced plans to unveil a new sports Tourer concept along with two other concepts at November’s Tokyo Motor Show. The wagon-shaped Levorg Concept serves as a preview for a production model which will be launched next year in Japan.
A new age of touring cars
Subaru says the name Levorg is the result of combining the words legacy, revolution and touring to herald a new age of touring cars. The Levorg Concept will come equipped with an all-new 1.6-liter turbocharged direct-injection boxer 4-cylinder engine. The vehicle will also have an updated version of the brands new EyeSight safety system and the first version of a new autonomous driving feature.
In addition to the Levorg Concept, Subaru will apparently also debut the Cross Sport Design concept which will represent Subarus vision of a next-generation SUV. There will also be the Subaru Crossover 7 concept which will debut with a seven-seat arrangement and a “sophisticated urban look” with tan leather-wrapped seats and a spacious interior.
All debuts will take place on November 20th at the 2013 Tokyo Motor Show.
Subaru Levorg Concept gallery
Rolls-Royce Unveils Phantom Bespoke Chicane Coupe
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.
