Alfa Romeo Giulietta Collezione special edition launched

The special edition Alfa Romeo Giulietta Collezione has been introduced to the Alfa range. The special edition model features a contrasting roof, premium body styling and elegant interior finishes.

Alfa Romeo Giulietta Collezione Features

The Alfa Giulietta Collezione is powered by four engine options. A 1.4 TB engine producing 89kW, a 1.4 TB MultiAir engine producing 126kW, a 1.6 JTDM-2 engine producing 78kW and a 2.0 JTDM-2 diesel engine delivering 104kW.

Fuel consumption is rated at 3.6-litres/100km with CO2 emissions of 114 g/km on the combined cycle.

Exterior Styling

The Alfa Romeo Giulietta Collezione is available in three signature Alfa colours which include Solid Black, Alfa Red and Ghiaccio White, all featuring a contrasting roof as standard. The Solid Black models are complimented by a matte magnesio grey roof while the Alfa Red and Ghiaccio models feature a solid black roof.

The dynamic look is finished in 17-inch Titanium alloy wheels, Titanium effect wing mirrors and darkened headlight surrounds, as well as chrome door handles.

Interior Styling

The interior is also finished with contrasting features including new black and red competizone cloth upholstery with contrasting stitching and titanium finish inserts on the door inserts, centre console and on the dashboard. To ensure driver comfort, the air conditioning and Blue&Me come as standard on the Collezione.

New Kia Cerato Revealed

The new Kia Cerato is now available in South Africa, and will be offered in three different equipment levels across two engines the 1.6 EX, 2.0 EX and 2.0 SX. The third generation Kia Cerato sports a sleeker profile with futuristic and dynamic styling.

New Kia Cerato Specs and Features

Engine Capability

The new Kia Cerato will be available in a choice of two petrol engines. The 2.0-litre Nu engine produces 118kW and is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox that results in a 0-100km/h time of 8.5 seconds or 9.3 seconds with the automatic model. The top speed comes in at 210km/h.

The popular 1.6-litre Gamma engine produces 95kW and has a top speed of 200km/h and reaches 100km/h in 10.1 seconds and 11.6 seconds on the automatic model.

Exterior Design Features

The new Kia Cerato features cutting edge design and boasts improved quality, upgraded equipment and a host of additional convenience and safety features.

The new model is 25mm lower than before and rides on a 50mm-longer wheelbase. At the rear, the boot lid is shaped to reduce aerodynamic drag, while the rear combination lamps smooth the airflow, reinforcing the wide stance of the Cerato. Front and rear overhangs are 15mm and 5mm shorter respectively, yet boot space increases to 67 litres from 415 to 482 litres.

Notable features include distinctive eye-catching concave door contours and a rising beltline with a chrome window moulding extending into the C-pillar to project an aura of elegance. The lower coupe-like roofline and cab-forward styling bring out the cars dynamic muscularity.

The new Kia Cerato will be available in a range of 10 exterior colours, and these include: Clear White (solid), Snow White and Aurora Black (pearl), plus Bright Silver, Glittering Metal, Golden Beat, Temptation Red, Planet Blue, Abyss Blue and Milky Beige (metallic).

Interior Design Features

Emphasis to quality and comfort has been placed to the interior of the Cerato including the driver-focused cockpit with easy-to-reach controls, the soft touch materials applied to the upper door trims, dashboard, door armrests, door centre trim panels and the centre console.

The new Kia Cerato also features three different types of instrument cluster designs across the range. A segment type LCD cluster is standard on the 1.6 EX model, while a dot-matrix LCD cluster is standard on the 2.0 EX model and offers a broader range of information.

The 2.0 SX model is fitted with a high-tech TFT colour LCD cluster featuring a new and more ergonomically designed GUI (graphics user interface) with a 4.2-inch screen and high-intensity white lighting.

The new Kia Cerato 1.6 EX model is equipped with a manual air-conditioner, automatic light control, built-in Bluetooth, steering wheel mounted cruise control, front and rear electric windows, LED daytime running lights, an MP3/iPod/USB compatible radio with CD front loader, rear air vents, six speakers, steering wheel mounted remote controls and 60/40 rear split seats.

By upgrading to the 2.0 EX model you will get a dot-matrix LCD cluster, leather seats as well as the option of a sunroof. The top of the range 2.0 SX model features various high tech features including HID xenon headlamps, a rear view camera, a smart key with stop/start button, a smart welcome lighting system, front and rear park distance control and a supervision TFT LCD cluster.

Safety Features

Safety technologies standard on all models include ABS (Antilock Braking System) with built-in EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), active headrests, impact sensing auto door unlock, a passenger airbag on/off switch, six airbags consisting of driver, front passenger, side and curtain airbags, Isofix child seat anchors and fog lights.

The SX model features ESC (Electronic Stability Control), HAC (Hill-start Assist Control), and a VSM (Vehicle Stability Management).

New Kia Cerato Price

View the new Kia Cerato

Kia Cerato 1.6 Manual	R219 995
Kia Cerato 1.6 Auto	R229 995
Kia Cerato 2.0 Manual	R249 995
Kia Cerato 2.0 Auto	R259 995
Kia Cerato 2.0 SX Manual	R279 995
Kia Cerato 2.0 SX Auto	R289 995

All models will be available with a five-year or 150 000km warranty and five-year or 90 000km service plan.

Toyota surpasses BMW as most valuable global car brand

An annual ranking of the worlds top brands by Millward Brown shows Toyota has overtaken BMW as the most valuable global car brand due to the new models introduced in the hybrid market.

Sales breakdown

The study revealed Toyota’s 2013 brand value rose 12% to $24.5 billion largely because of its significant inroads in the hybrid market, in contrast BMWs brand value dropped by 2% to $24 billion. This was due to the European slowdown which impacted BMWs earnings and was in part responsible for the swap at the top of the rankings.

Toyota was also the most popular car brand for 2012 in South Africa with a total of 112 215 units sold. This year, the brand has maintained the number one spot for the past three months, March being its highest with a total market share of 21.9%.

BMW faired reasonably well in 2012 and ranked in 7th place for total new vehicle sales in South Africa for 2012 with 26 446 vehicles sold between January and November 2012. However, the brand is not slowing down as it posted reasonable sales for the month of February 2013, with a total market share of 5.2%.

Furthermore, the study showed that German premium brands such as Mercedes Benz increased by 11% in value. Audi also saw its brand value rise 18% to $5.5 billion.

The brand value of the Top 10 brands improved 5% in the 2013 BrandZ ranking compared with a 7% decline last year. Brand value remained at only 71 percent of its pre-recession level.

Here are the worlds most valuable car brands in $billion rank according to BrandZ Top 100 Most Valuable Global Brands study released by market research company Millward Brown.

Top 10 car brands worldwide

Brand	Brand Value 2013 $M	Brand value % change 2013 vs 2012
Toyota	24 497	&#9650 12%
BMW	24 015	&#9660 2%
Mercedes Benz	17 952	&#9650 11%
Honda	12 401	&#9660 2%
Nissan	10 186	&#9650 3%
Volkswagen	8 790	&#9650 3%
Ford	7 556	&#9650 8%
Audi	5 545	&#9650 18%
Hyundai	4 000	&#9650 11%
Lexus	3 472	&#9650 2%

Source: Millward Brown

Land Rover Discovery 4 XS ready for adventure

The new Land Rover Discovery 4, designed to cater to the adventure market, is now available with coil spring suspension in the Discovery 4 XS.

In response to customer demand we are pleased to introduce the Discovery 4 XS, said Peter Biven, Marketing and Communications Director for Land Rover South Africa and sub-Sahara Africa. The XS is essentially an expedition vehicle designed for robust, overland work.

Land Rover Discovery 4 is the ultimate all-purpose vehicle

The Land Rover Discovery 4 XS is equipped with Land Rovers 3.0 TDV6 engine delivering 155kW of power. It is mated to an 8-speed transmission with Drive Select and rotary shifter, Hill Decent Control and Low/high range gear selection.

What makes the Land Rover Discovery 4 XS the perfect on and off road companion is the extensive list of features. These features include; 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic climate control, cruise control, a tow bar, and Trailer Stability Assist.

The XS is only available in five seat configuration with standard cloth seats but can be upgraded to leather as an option, as well as an optional privacy glass.

Driver controls include steering wheel paddles as standard. The rotary switch selects park, reverse, neutral, drive or sport modes, the last of these optimising the gearbox response times for maximum acceleration, improved response and sharper upshifts.

We are excited about the introduction of the new Discovery XS. It is a more affordable option in the Discovery line-up and caters to a market with very demanding requirements, concluded Biven.

Land Rover Discovery 4 Price

View the new Land Rover Discovery

Land Rover Discovery 4 XS R598 600

The Land Rover Discovery 4 XS comes standard with a 5-year/100 000km maintenance plan.

2014 Mitsubishi Attrage Uncovered

Mitsubishi has unveiled the production version of the Concept G4 which debuted at the 2013 Shanghai Auto Show. The model is described as a next generation global sedan, named Attrage.

2014 Mitsubishi Attrage Features

The 2014 Mitsubishi Attrage will be fitted with a 1.2-litre MIVEC engine paired to either a five speed manual transmission or a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) which offers a combined fuel consumption of approximately 4.5-litres/100km.

The models styling features are slightly different from the Concept G4. It features a prominent grille, sweptback headlights, and smaller alloy wheels. Other distinguishing features include an upward sweeping character line, chrome accents, and side mirrors with integrated turn signals.

Similar to the Concept G4, the 2014 Mitsubishi Attrage offers notable passenger comfort with a high hip point and large door openings for easy entry and exit as well as generous rear seat legroom.

Mitsubishi South Africa has no confirmed plans to launch the vehicle in South Africa at this stage.

2014 BMW M5 and M6 launched with Competition Package

BMW has announced that the new 2014 BMW M5, M6 Coupe, Convertible and Gran Coupe facelifts will be offered with a new Competition Package as an option for the four powerful models in the BMW portfolio.

More power for 2014 BMW M5 and M6

Both the 2014 BMW M5 and M6 models are equipped with a 4.4-liter TwinPower Turbo V-8 engine that delivers 412kW of power in standard form but with the boost of the Competition Package it produces 423kW. The power unit is linked to a seven-speed M dual clutch gearbox and an Active M Differential at the rear axle.

With these changes, acceleration from zero to 100km/h can be done 0.1 seconds quicker than before.

Competition Package enhances overall performance

In addition to the engine boost on the 2014 BMW M5 and M6 models, developers have extensively tuned the chassis set-up. The optional competition package also adds M carbon ceramic brakes, updated suspension and damping systems, tuned stabilizer bars, 10mm lowered ride height and new hydraulic rack-and-pinion steering with M-specific Servotronic function.

Beyond these enhancements, the M chassis control system has been adapted to the Competition Package suspension profile. With the package, the M Dynamic Mode (MDM) of DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) is re-mapped for even sportier handling characteristics and higher thresholds of intervention. Furthermore, the Competition Package includes unique 20-inch M light-alloy wheels along with a sport exhaust system featuring M quad tailpipes finished in Black Chrome.

Enhanced Design Features

The striking BMW kidney grille now features the M5 model designation with the slats featuring the double-spoke design of the M light-alloy wheels. In addition to the standard Xenon Adaptive headlights, there are optional Adaptive LED Headlights which emit a particularly bright white light generated by a pair of LED units situated horizontally in the middle of each light ring. The M5 also features new tail lights with thin LED light strips.

Improved interior features include an updated M leather steering wheel, increased storage compartments available under the armrest in the centre console, chrome trim on the sides of the iDrive, and a Touch Controller with a touch-sensitive surface. Also, as of July, BMW will offer the M5 facelift with new exterior colours including Pyrite Brown Metallic, Frozen Blue Metallic and BMW Individual Frozen paintwork finishes, as well as exclusive Cashmere Beige and Nutmeg leather shades.

Renault Megane RB8 limited edition revealed

Renault and Red Bull are celebrating their third Formula 1 Constructors’ world title with this limited-edition Renault Megane RB8 which features an exclusive Twilight Blue finish with Platinum Grey detail.

Renault Megane RB8 takes sporty to new heights

The limited-edition Renault Megane RB8 version has the same fundamental elements as the Megane Renaultsport 265 including the 2.0-litre turbocharged engine with Stop&Start and develops 197kW of power. Other features include stiffer springs, dampers, anti-roll bar, limited slip differential, and grooved discs with Brembo callipers.

The new flagship Megane Renaultsport is inspired from Red Bull Racings Formula 1 identity, finished in the race teams famous colours. Additional exclusive features include Red Bull badges on the sides and on the tailgate, Platinum Grey details on the F1 blade, door handles, door-mirror housings and rear lip spoiler, as well as a monochrome laurel on the rear side windows to celebrate the team’s 2012 Constructors’ world title.

Interior styling

The interior is styled with Red Bull logos on the numbered aluminium door sills and carpet mats, and on the head restraints of the Recaro seats, which are trimmed in a new mixed leather and fabric upholstery.

The Renault Megane RB8 is fitted with 19-inch black Steev wheels with platinum rims, and the same Bridgestone tyres that helped the Megane Renaultsport 265 Trophy set a new front-wheel drive lap record at the Nurburgring.

Advanced on-board technology

The limited-edition Renault Megane RB8 is the first Renaultsport model with a built-in R-Link multimedia tablet. The system’s six functions include navigation, telephony, multimedia, and vehicle, systems and R-Link apps catalogue. They are controlled using either the touch screen display, voice command or the joystick on the centre console.

Along with R-Link, there is also the second generation Renaultsport Monitor with built-in TomTom Live navigation system. There is a new and intuitive interface which uses R-Links seven-inch colour display, GPS-tracked lap timing, 3D graphics, plus real-time access to power output data, 0-100km/h times and G-force diagrams.

The limited-edition Renault Megane RB8 will be available in South Africa in the 4th quarter and only 50 units will be available.

Aston Martin CC100 Speedster Concept celebrates 100 years

As part of the centenary celebrations, the special Aston Martin CC100 Speedster Concept has been built to commemorate Stirling Moss win at the 1959 Nurburgring 1000km in a DBR1.

Aston Martin CC100 Speedster Concept pays homage to sporting heritage

The powerful Aston Martin CC100 Speedster Concept car made its world debut by completing a lap at the famous Nordschleife at Germanys ADAC Zurich 24 hours of Nurburgring race. The concept boasts a V12 6.0-litre engine linked to a six-speed automated manual gearbox.

Acceleration from zero-100km/h takes just four seconds, reaching an electronically limited top speed of 290km/h. Controlled via steering column-mounted paddle shifts the lightweight box delivers truly sporting changes perfectly suited to the Speedster’s track-focused nature.

“I have nicknamed it ‘DBR100’ because of its affinity to the great 1959 race-winning cars and, of course, our 100-year anniversary in 2013. But this car is more, even, than a simple ‘birthday present’ to ourselves: it shows that the soul of Aston Martin the thing that differentiates us from all the other carmakers out there is as powerful as ever and I very much hope that everyone who catches a glimpse of it at the Nurburgring today enjoys seeing it,” said Aston Martin CEO Dr Ulrich Bez

The Aston Martin CC100 Speedster Concept was designed and constructed in less than six months at Aston Martins global headquarters in Gaydon. The body and interior of the two-seater CC100 crafted from carbon fibre reflects Aston Martins heritage and future design capability.

“The future of Aston Martin is, very clearly, more exciting now than perhaps at any time in its history and I’m looking forward to seeing the excitement and anticipation that CC100 creates among Aston Martin owners and enthusiasts worldwide.” concluded Dr Bez.

2014 BMW 5 Series features new powerful engine

BMW has revealed the updated 2014 BMW 5 series line-up which features more power, a new diesel engine and enhanced styling inside cabin.

BMW Advanced Diesel engine offers more power

The launch of the new 2014 BMW 5 Series model family also sees an expansion of its engine range. The BMW 535d has been added as the latest diesel option in the 5-Series range. This model is powered by a 3.0-litre inline-6 BMW Advanced Diesel engine with TwinPower Turbo technology that delivers 167kW at 400 rpm and 559Nm of torque from 1500 3000rpm.

The range topping BMW 550i Sedan and BMW 550i Gran Turismo now feature an updated V8 engine with TwinPower Turbo technology and Valvetronic throttle-less intake valve control and develops 331kW and 650Nm of torque.

All models will be mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission as standard, while the six speed manual transmission will be offered as an option.

2014 BMW 5-Series goes all out with style

The 5-Series chassis technology which includes a double-wishbone front axle, integral rear axle and Servotronic variable power steering function, have been honed to deliver an unrivalled balance between sporty performance and ride comfort. The BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo comes standard with air suspension including automatic self-levelling rear suspension.

The exterior designs of the 5-Series sedan are defined by hallmark BMW proportions created by a long hood, long wheelbase, short overhangs and setback passenger compartment. Redesigned features include new contour lines for the surround kidney grille, improved lower air intakes, an extra crease in the apron, and slimmer, sharply contoured rear lights.

The Gran Turismo features a modified front apron and redesigned rear end, vibrant light and shade effects around the license plate holder. A dynamically sweeping crease extends into the flanks and a chrome trim strip in the rear apron gives the tail end a lighter and sportier feel.

All variants of the new BMW 5-Series model family are fitted with xenon headlights as standard and Adaptive LED Headlights as optional, while side indicator lights are integrated into the exterior mirrors. The models will also be available with new exterior paint colours, optional light alloy wheels and exclusively composed BMW Lines. Customers can choose between the Luxury Line, Modern Line, and M Sport trim specifications.

Interior design adds class to 5-Series models

New features inside the BMW 5-Series models provide a refined impression and increased functionality. These features include a bordered chrome trim navigation screen, increased capacity in the storage compartments and cup holders in the centre console.

There is also a new standard iDrive4.2 navigation system with Advanced Real Time Traffic Information and a new iDrive rotary controller with an integrated touch pad that allows the input of characters for destinations, phone numbers, and other functions within the iDrive4.2 operating system.

All variants of the new BMW 5 Series will also be available to order with an optional M Sport Package, which now features a new M steering wheel, LED fog lights and Nappa leather upholstery.

Nissan Juke lineup expands with new models

With over 6600 Nisan Juke models sold locally, the company has announced the introduction of new CVT automatic and All-Wheel-Drive versions of the Juke to join the existing four-model line-up.

The Nissan Juke is pure offspring of the Nissan bloodline where innovation, inspiration and never conforming to the norm form the genetics which drive our crossover thinking, said Nancy Reddy, Manager of Product Marketing for Crossover Vehicles at Nissan South Africa.

Nissn Juke Xtronic CVT and Automatic All-Mode 4x4i systems

The Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) can be likened to a conventional automatic gearbox. However, the CVT uses two pulleys with a steel belt running between them, and can change through virtually infinite gear ratios rather than standard manual or automatic transmissions that have a fixed number of gears.

All-Mode 4x4i is available exclusively in the turbocharged Nissan Juke model. As an intelligent AWD system, it can distribute torque between the front and rear wheels through a torque vectoring system up to a maximum split of 50:50.

The All-Mode 4x4i is designed to enhance the Jukes handling and provide more grip during cornering. It also enables responsive cornering as the driver intends, while Xtronics actions are relayed in real time to the driver through graphics on the instrument panel.

More character added to the new Nissan Juke variants

The new models sport bold looks, a sporty interior and customers can expect an electrifying drive with the new transmissions.

The new Nissan JUKE 1.6 Acenta CVT auto makes use of the existing entry level model and raises it to new levels of comfort. The installation of the CVT automatic transmission will enable the Juke to exhibit another side of its youthful character with an easier driving style, while maintaining its fun-to-drive nature.

The range topping Nissan JUKE 1.6 DIG-T Tekna AWD/CVT pairs the new transmission to the exciting turbocharged actions and adds the enhanced driving of AWD. With the extra grip and better road holding inherent with AWD, the turbocharged engine delivers 140kW and 240Nm.

Forward thinking and ability to provide enhanced driving dynamics are exemplified by both new Juke derivatives.

New Nissan Juke Price

View the new Nissan Juke

Nissan Juke 1.6 Acenta CVT	R249 900
Nissan Juke 1.6 DIG-T Tekna AWD/CVT (Leather)	R314 900