Nissan and Eskom enter into 3-year electric vehicle research project

The fledging electric car market is yet to see success in South Africa, as electric cars are still being made in limited numbers and delivered to very specific test markets. However, Nissan South Africa have announced they’re entering into a unique three-year research project with Eskom that will include testing the Nissan Leaf which is due to launch in South Africa later this year.

Nissan explores electric future in South Africa

This project follows a pilot programme to promote public awareness with the Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA) and the technology Innovation Agency (TIA) with a view to creating a commercially viable infrastructure for the use of electric vehicles.

“Eskom has been doing EV research for several years with the intention of understanding the impact of EVs on our grid, and we also want to understand usage patterns and charging characteristics of the cars themselves in order to design grid solutions and tariffs for e-mobility,” Barry MacColl, Eskom’s General Manager for research testing and development.

MacColl also added that while South Africa uses fossil-based fuels for many of its energy processes, a new approach is in the sights of all concerned. E-mobility is a way of moving people around in a more effective and cleaner fashion which is critical for the economy. Eskom is intent upon finding technology options suitable for implementation within the energy body.

Since its introduction in 2010, Nissan has sold 60 000 Leaf vehicles worldwide, with the car available in Japan, the US and Europe.

BAW launches 16 seater minibus to conquer local taxi market

BAW South Africa has announced the introduction of its new 16-seater minibus taxi, which will be assembled in South Africa.

According to John Jessup, BAW SA’s Head of Sales in marketing and after sales, the brand’s three major objectives with the model are to provide Innovation, Passenger Orientation and Value. The minibus is known in China under the internal name of ‘009’ but will be locally known as ‘Sasuka’, which means “we are departing” in IsiZulu.

BAW Sasuka 009 – Features

The Sasuka will be equipped with a 2.7-litre petrol engine that delivers 110kW of power at 5200 rpm and 235Nm of torque at 4000 rpm.

Jessup added that the needs of passengers, drivers and operators seem to have been ignored within the taxi market when compared with the general market. With intent to give superior value, Jessup says their vehicles will be priced 15% below that of their main competitor but with many features and service plans catered for the customers.

The Sasuka taxi will be offered with a touch screen on the console which is not only a CD/radio but also a DVD player, a GPS navigation system built into the front console screen, and factory-fitted air-conditioning with units in both the front and forward ceiling area as standard. Further the vehicle will feature ABS brakes with EBD, retractable seat belts, remote (keyless) central unlocking, and integrated tracking hardware equipment.

Additional standard features include alloy wheels, wider white wall tyres, an additional 110 mm of space in the passenger seating area and ‘high back’ two tone UV resistant PVC seating with an 8 degree rear tilt capability.

BAW Sasuka 009 – Price

BAW Sasuka 009 – R275 990

BAW will include a two-year/200000 km service plan, which also covers maintenance of the entire braking system. Service intervals are every 10 000 km and will be undertaken via a one-hour express service concept. The warranty period is for two-years or 100 000km.

Range Rover Evoque Review in South Africa

It’s hard to imagine the Range Rover Evoque has been on sale on South African shores since late 2011. The actual launch was rather low-key with Range Rover choosing to show off its new product to the thousands of car fans that descended upon the Johannesburg International Motor Show. Two years on the Evoque is still fresh and relevant.

Range Rover Evoque Review by David Taylor

A visual work of art

Car design is one of those subjective topics which no-one can nail down. One man’s work of art is another’s source of indigestion. Yet the Range Rover Evoque which was in my care for a week was admired by everyone. Perhaps it’s the combination of being futuristic and so radical which sets it apart from the rest of the luxury market. Personally I hate concept cars and when the LRX was unveiled I laughed it off as one of those cruel temptations which never sees the light of day. Amazingly Range Rover actually built it and the road-going Evoque is still strikingly similar to its concept. In coupé guise the Evoque should automatically win every design competition hands down. It’s a vehicle which I could happily admire from any angle and I’m certain this lime green SD4 features on many onlookers’ social media pages.

The Range Rover Evoque has a beautiful interior

The mind-blowing looks aren’t just skindeep. Underneath the gorgeous bodywork is one of the neatest and most stylish of car interiors. It’s flawless in terms of ergonomics and everything is right where you expect it to be. There’s a touchscreen LCD interface which controls the audio system, satellite navigation, Bluetooth-connected mobile phone amongst other things. The downside of this system is many of the controls become inoperable once you reach a certain speed. I’m assuming Range Rover wants you to be focused on the road and not looking down at the screen here…

Speaking of audio system, this particular Evoque had the Meridian surround sound option ticked. If you’re in the market and considering the Evoque, this is a must-have. Few car audio systems are this clear, even at full volume. The Range Rover Evoque comes with some brilliant features such as the glass panoramic roof which makes the cabin feel really spacious, rear parking camera, two USB ports, keyless operation and auto handbrake. Everything you’d ever need in a car can be found in the Evoque.

Strong diesel engine

The Range Rover Evoque is powered by a 2.2-litre diesel engine with 140kW and 420Nm which drives all four wheels through a six-speed automatic ‘box. The steering wheel has paddle shifters and I advise using these to ensure you have a smooth drive. You see the on/off nature of the turbodiesel engine means nearly all the power comes at once. When left in a fully automatic mode the gearbox will change down a gear for you, resulting sudden bursts of power which makes the Evoque lunge. It’s a little disconcerting, especially when you wish to overtake and the vehicle changes down two gears. By using the paddleshift mode, you have a much smoother drive and it’s quite enjoyable driving the Evoque in this fashion. Being a diesel, it’s not too heavy on fuel consumption either. I was sitting at 9L/100km – not too bad for a big luxury SUV.

Ride and handling

This particular Evoque was fitted with optional big and fashionable shiny alloy wheels which aren’t meant for serious offroad duty. They looked impressive and coupled with the adaptive dynamic system, turned the Evoque into a nimble and agile SUV.
Look, it’s no racer but it felt sure-footed. The downside of this is the ride bordered on firm and uneven sections of road could be felt. It’s lovely on longer journeys and few cars will be this comfortable when cruising at the national speed limit.

Being a Land Rover, it is strong offroad. I didn’t really test its bundu-bashing credentials, but I can say the photoshoot location featured soft and wet sand which was easily crossed without any need for the fancy Terrain Response System. I don’t think any Range Rover Evoque owner will want to take this artwork into the wild, but if you do the vehicle comes fitted with Hill Descent Control and is able to tackle scenarios like gravel, mud and snow at the touch of a button.

The Range Rover Evoque – Conclusion

It’s easily one of the best vehicles I’ve ever driven. The easy on the eye looks are coupled with a well-built and luxurious interior. It can go offroad, but I think most Evoque owners won’t be too bothered about that. The downside though, is the price. This is not a cheap vehicle and the options list means your starting price of around R630k can quickly reach close on R700k without too much effort.

Range Rover Evoque – Price

Range Rover Evoque Coupé Prestige SD4 – R633 100

  • Why you should: Simply one of the most attractive cars ever built, effortless to drive, foolproof offroad systems, attention to detail is supreme.
  • Why you shouldn’t: Expensive, pricey options.
  • It would be better if: it was cheaper when compared to its rivals.
  • View the Range Rover Evoque: New / Used
  • Competitors worth checking out: BMW X3, Audi Q5, Infiniti EX, Lexus RX

Toyota Hilux the best selling bakkie in South Africa

South Africa’s most loved bakkie is popular in more ways than one but especially in topping the monthly industry new vehicle sales. The Toyota Hilux was South Africa’s most popular bakkie in 2012 with 31 687 units sold and was the second most popular all-round vehicle in 2012 behind the VW Polo Vivo.

Toyota Hilux sales

Nearly 860 000 Hilux vehicles have been sold in South Africa since its introduction in 1969. Despite there being some quality competition from the Ford Ranger, Isuzu KB Series and Mazda BT-50. Around 2 500+ units of the Hilux are sold every month.

The Hilux has been dominating sales since the beginning of the year, with February being its best selling month with a total of 3500 units sold. In January it sold 2634 units, 3189 units in March and 3227 units in April.

Toyota Hilux – designed for work and pleasure

The Toyota Hilux comes with three body styles; Single cab, Double cab and the Xtra cab which is relatively new on our roads. All these three designs have a variety of models ranging from a 2.0 VVT- i to a 4.0 V6 4×4 Raider Auto/ Raised Body Raider Auto.

The Toyota Hilux also offers a myriad of styling cues developed to enhance the vehicle’s modern design, emphasise its tough underpinnings and keep the vehicle truly appealing.

When it comes to advancing technology, the model features systems, including an integrated USB and iPod connectivity feature that enables the driver to connect their iPhone, iPod or MP3 player to the audio system for an on-the-go music experience. There is also an automatic air-conditioner, an anti-lock Braking System (ABS) that features load sensing technology as well as emergency brake assist system (BAS), head curtain shield side airbags and vehicle stability control functionality as standard.

Toyota Hilux Single Cab Toyota Hilux Double Cab Toyota Hilux Xtra Cab
Price From: R182 800 From: R259 500 From: R327 800
Features Power steering on all models
Front and rear mud guards
Load area (mm): 2315 x 1520 x 450
Redesigned Taillights		 Power steering and air conditioner and two airbags
Electrically adjustable windows and exterior mirrors
Secure storage space
Load area (mm: LxWxD): 1805 x 1515 x 450		 Six airbags on all Raider models
17-inch alloy wheels on all Raider models
Load area (mm): 1520 x 1515 x 450
Transponder key immobiliser and alarm
Engine 2.5 litre diesel 2.5 litre diesel3.0 litre diesel 2.5 litre diesel
Transmission Manual Manual (2.5 & 3.0 litre)
Automatic (3.0 litre only)		 Manual

BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupe officially unveiled

BMW has unveiled the outcome of its first collaboration with Pininfarina and the result is the Gran Lusso Coupe which has been designed as a  luxury coupe that exhibits top quality craftsmanship.

Dynamic Exterior Styling for Gran Lusso Coupe

As part of the front-end design, the BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupe features the trademark BMW kidney grille as well as road focussed headlights with a twin circular look, while distinctive Pininfarina elements have been interpreted with Italian elegance.

Above the kidney grille the bonnet stretches across the front of the car, with subtle contours appearing from the BMW emblem and giving the bonnet a dynamic elegance. The Gran Lusso Coupe’s convex features on the side add visual elegance and give the body a taut, athletic shape.

The model is also equipped with slender taillights, matte aluminium trim and exclusive 21-inch alloy wheels whith five spoke rims.

Sophisticated Interior offers class and elegance

The interior of the BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupe is fused with modern elegance and authoritative dynamics displayed on the exterior. The four-seat coupe is styled with Tobacco Brown leather upholstery, kauri wood trim and black chrome accents. There’s also a sport steering wheel, LED ambient lighting and a virgin Italian wool headliner with a distinctive “Principe di Galles” pattern.

The soft deep-pile carpet in dark grey adds a subtle sense of wellbeing, while the freestanding B-pillars create a homogeneous glazed area and frameless doors appear  light when viewed from the outside.

“The result of this cooperative venture is far greater than the sum of its parts,” said Fabio Filippini, Head of Design at Pininfarina.

“When two such tradition-rich and experienced brands join forces to turn a vision into reality, something utterly new and exciting emerges. From start to finish, this project was defined by a mutual respect for the identity of the other company.”

New Ford Fiesta ST launched in South Africa

The much anticipated new Ford Fiesta ST, boasting more power and revised styling, has been launched in South Africa.

“The new Ford Fiesta ST delivers remarkable levels of performance, design and quality to offer an unsurpassed driving experience,” said Ford Marketing Manager Gavin Golightly.

“South African’s have an affinity for performance and the Fiesta ST speaks directly to that passion.”

New Ford Fiesta ST impresses with EcoBoost Engine

In contrast to the previous Fiesta model, the ST now offers more power with a 1.6-litre EcoBoost petrol engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission and offers 134kW of power and 240NM of torque. Acceleration from 0-100km/h takes just 6.9 seconds before reaching a top speed of 220km/h. Fuel efficiency is rated at 5.9-litres/100km with CO2 emissions of 138 g/km.

The Ford Fiesta ST powertrain has been fine tuned with features only previously found in larger performance cars, including enhanced Torque Vectoring Control (eTVC) and three-mode Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and rear disc brakes.

Interior and Exterior Features

The sporty and more distinct Fiesta ST is styled with a unique body-kit which includes a new large trapezoidal grille with honeycomb construction, dynamic headlight design and dramatic rear diffuser element. Also there are new Recaro sports seats and a Sound Symposer to filter engine noise, giving the driver a real sporting experience.

Other features include the MyKey and Sync technology functions, alloy metal pedals and gear shifter, an ST steering wheel, as well as 17-inch alloy wheels. The model is available in five exterior paint colours including Race Red, Frozen White, Molten Orange and Spirit Blue.

New Ford Fiesta ST – Price

Ford Fiesta 1.6 GDTi ST 3 door – R254 500

View the New Ford Fiesta

Options

  • Metallic Paint – R750
  • Rear Parking Sensors – R1710
  • Thatcham Alarm with volume sensing and perimeter alarm including inclination sensor – R1070

The new Ford Fiesta ST is available with a fully comprehensive four-year/120 000km warranty and four-year/60 000km service plan. Service intervals are staggered at 20 000km. Customers will also benefit from three years of roadside assistance and a five-year corrosion warranty, both of which are available with unlimited mileage.

New Ford Fiesta ST gallery

View the Ford Fiesta ST Gallery here.

Renault TwinRun concept unveiled

Following its release of the third generation Twingo TwinZ concept, Renault has released yet another concept vehicle to take the city car to the next level.

Like its twin, the new Renault TwinRun Concept cultivates the sporting spirit of the brand and pays homage to the legendary R5 Turbo and Clio V6.

Renault TwinRun boasts sporty persona

Engine Capability

The two-seat Renault TwinRun concept is equipped with a 3.5 V6 engine delivering 238kW at 6800 rpm and maximum torque of 380Nm at 4850 rpm and is mated to a 6-speed sequential gearbox. The TwinRun accelerates from 0-100km/h in 4.5 seconds reaching a top speed of 250km/h

Exterior and Interior Design Features

The Renault TwinRun features styling of Renault’s future city car. The blue paint finish on the car is enhanced by graphic lines drawn with emphatic shoulders with touches of red on the strip, the roof, the ultra-slim door mirrors and parts of the rear airfoil.

The design of the headlights and the “5” on the doors pay homage to the emblematic R5 Turbo 1980’s rally car, while the four additional, extra-flat headlights with LED technology enhance the concept’s modern design.

The Renault TwinRun Concept also benefits from air intake vents positioned at the level of the rear wheel arches, and red surrounds on the circumference of the black and white wheel rims. It’s fitted with 18-inch alloy wheels shod in Michelin 205/40 front and 245/35 rear tyres.

The motorsport theme is carried through to the interior with the tubular chassis and Sparco padded bucket seats, as well as the door panels and dashboard upholstered in black and red “alcantara effect” suede. Other features include sequential gear lever and handbrake levers installed close to the steering wheel, and a 5.5-inch LCD instrument cluster positioned in a white lacquer console.

Ford Everest refreshed and ready for adventure

The Ford Everest has been upgraded with a number of exterior and interior enhancements designed to offer exemplary off-road credentials and outstanding on-road comfort.

Ford Everest ready for the big outdoors

The seven-seat SUV is powered by a 3.0-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel engine delivering 115kW and 380Nm of torque at 1800 rpm and uses a five-speed manual transmission. The Ford Everest XLT is available in either 4×2 or 4×4 guise, and the Everest LTD is available in 4×4 with only a five-speed automatic transmission.

The automatic model features an electronic shift-on-the-fly system, allowing a driver to shift the driving mode from 2WD to 4WD at high driving speeds of up to 100 km/h. The 4×4 system features a proven-tough Borg-Warner transfer case.

Exterior and Interior Design Features

The refreshed Ford Everest boasts bold styling which has been further enhanced with a new front grille complemented by subtle modifications to the front bumper, the headlamps, fog lamp bezels and door mirrors.

The wheel arch flares give the Everest a muscular stance. Its ready-for-adventure ready character is further defined by the full size spare wheel mounted on the tailgate and high-mounted taillight clusters. Other exterior enhancements include a new Copper Red exterior colour, and improved quarter back windows.

The interior has been enhanced with a darker tone trim called Basalt (black), a USB input standard across the range, and cruise control.

“Combining rugged off-road ability and the luxury of a seven-seat configuration, the Everest is not only the perfect family vehicle but is ideally suited to South Africa’s environment and our general sense of adventure,” said Ford Marketing Manager Gavin Golightly.

“The Ford Everest is a fantastic family vehicle that offers comfort, safety, off-road competence and practicality,” concluded Golightly.

Ford Everest – Price

Ford Everest 3.0 TDCi LTD 4×4 Auto – R447 900

View the new Ford Everest

The Ford Everest comes with a 5 year / 90 000km Service Plan and a comprehensive 4 year / 120 000km warranty with service intervals of 10 000kms. There is also a 3 year Roadside Assistance and a 5 year corrosion warranty as part of the Ford Everest package. Free off-road driver training through De Rust Outdoor is offered on all 4×4 derivatives.

McLaren marks 50 years with the limited edition 12C Coupe and 12C Spider

As part of the continued celebrations for their 50th anniversary, McLaren is to produce a maximum of 50 examples of the groundbreaking 12C and 12C Spider models, featuring unique styling and specification enhancements.

Celebrating five decades of race-winning technology and unique styling

Designed by McLaren Special Operations (MSO), enhancements on the models include a remodelled Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) optimised front bumper, additional carbon fibre trim and a black McLaren F1-inspired heritage badge which also features on the bonnet.

The models will also be fitted with the carbon ceramic brake upgrade with 394x36mm discs at the front, and uniquely designed 19-inch front and 20-inch rear Ultra Lightweight wheels finished in Satin Black, with an option of Super Lightweight wheels.

Inside, the models are upholstered with a full leather upgrade, while subtle branding to the carbon fibre sill panel and floor mats is complimented by an anniversary dedication plate on the driver’s door. They will also be available in three colour finishes, Carbon Black, Supernova Silver or heritage McLaren Orange.

The special editions will also come with a monogrammed car cover, a specially commissioned print and a bespoke key that resides in a carbon fibre presentation box.

Best Car Brand in UK goes to Jaguar

Jaguar has been named as the best car brand in the UK, and Land Rover has leapt up from 12th last year to 6th place in 2013 according to data collated by the J.D Power and Associates in the Vehicle Ownership Satisfaction Survey.

Jaguar also claimed first position in the Executive Car category for its XF model which has received more than 100 international awards since its launch. It was given five-star ratings for performance, service, and running costs.

The study measured the opinions of over 16 000 UK car owners who rated car models from 28 brands. Among the list of brands that made it to the top 10, Lexus, Honda and Skoda, while Chevrolet, Peugeot and Fiat were among the brands that ranked lower.

Jaguar comes out on top as Best Car Brand

  1. Jaguar – 82.7%
  2. Lexus – 81.8%
  3. Honda – 81.0%
  4. Skoda – 80.9%
  5. Mercedes Benz – 80.4%
  6. Land Rover – 79.0%
  7. Volvo – 78.9%
  8. Toyota – 78.8%
  9. Nissan – 78.7%
  10. Seat – 78.7%
  11. Volkswagen – 78.7%

The Best Executive Car

  1. Jaguar XF – 82.7%
  2. Mercedes Benz E-Class – 81.1%
  3. BMW 5 Series – 80%
  4. Volvo V70/XC70 – 80%
  5. Mercedes Benz E-Class Coupe – 79.4%