Volkswagen Creative Design Vision GTI Concept to be shown

The Volkswagen Creative Design Vision GTI Concept will make its debut as one of the traditional highlights at this year’s Worthersee festival.

Volkswagen Creative Design Vision GTI Concept is a powerful stunner

The GTI concept is equipped with a twin-turbo 3.0-litre V6 engine producing 370kW of power and a maximum torque figure of 560Nm. With the help of a dual-clutch DSG transmission the concept can sprint from 0-100km/h in 3.9 seconds before reaching a top speed of 300km/h.

Exterior Design Features

The Volkswagen Creative Design Vision GTI Concept has extremely crisp proportions and looks radical because it’s shorter, wider and lower than a regular GTI. According to Head of Design of Volkswagen Brand, Klaus Bischoff, visual clarity is part of Volkswagen’s success.

The colour scheme is further influenced by the traditional GTI triad of black, white and red. The distinctive C-pillar is drawn outward as an autonomous design element, while the main part of the body narrows strongly towards the rear. In parallel to the vertical air outlet that emphasizes the waisted doors, the sill grows continually outward until its upper edge merges with the C-pillar. The car is further styled with a honeycomb grille and 20-inch alloys with 235/35 front and 275/30 rear tyres.

Interior Design Features

Inside the visionary concept the steering wheel is equipped with ergonomically optimised DGS paddle shifters and a number of controls have been integrated into the upper section of the centre console. The electrical kill switch, a push-button for the fire extinguisher and the ESP deactivation are housed beneath the centre console.

The race-car impression is reinforced by the partial use of carbon fibre combined with Anthracite and Titan Black Alcantara as well as Black and Flash Red Nappa leather. The door handles are shaped in the form of a red loop, like a Porsche Cup car. The rear seats have been replaced by an X-shaped cross member that further strengthens body stiffness.

A large display to the right of the main instrument panel also shows info on the track map of the circuit you are running, along with lap times. This can also communicate with other vehicles on the course and calculate what’s going on in a race in real time.

“Our claim to be a global player is enhanced with our universal design language. A design that immediately communicates the brand’s identity is central for all models that carry the VW logo, with elements that allow each model to be recognized as a true Volkswagen by its distinctive design.” said Klaus Bischoff

New Porsche 911 Turbo celebrates 40 years

To celebrate 40 years of Turbo, Porsche revealed the new Porsche 911 Turbo and Turbo S ahead of a public debut at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show taking place in September. New features include the new all-wheel drive chassis with adaptive aerodynamics and active rear axle steering.

New Porsche 911 Turbo models – Specifications and Features

Engine Capability

The new Porsche Turbo models are offered with advanced engines and the new Porsche Traction Management (PTM) all-wheel drive systems. Under the hood of these vehicles is a turbocharged 3.8-litre flat-six engine with petrol injection. The new Porsche 911 Turbo produces 383kW while the Turbo S produces 412kW and are both mated to a seven speed dual-clutch transmission (PDK).

With the optional Sport Chrono Package Plus, the Porsche 911 Turbo accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in 3.2 while the new 911 Turbo S sprints to 100km/h in just 3.1 seconds. The car’s top speed is 317km/h. Fuel consumption for both models is rated at 9.7-litres/100km.

Exterior Styling Features

Porsche has expanded the wheelbase to 2450mm, and the front and rear tracks are also longer than before. Both models are fitted with 20-inch alloy wheels with the S version having hub wheel locks. Additionally the Turbo S is styled with full LED headlights with four-point daytime running lights and camera based main beam control (optionally available for Turbo)

Interior Styling Features

Both new Porsche 911 Turbo models boast a completely redesigned interior, building on the styling themes of the 911 Carrera models. The Turbo S features an exclusive interior in a Black/Carrera Red colour combination and Sport Seats Plus with 18-way adjustment and position memory. The seat backrest shells are covered in leather with double cap seams and various elements in Carbon Look.

Furthermore the models are equipped with a standard Bose Surround Sound audio system, and an optional higher output Burmester upgrade. Other new options offered include a radar-controlled cruise control system, camera-based road sign recognition and speed limit recognition.

Standard Features

Standard features include: adaptive aerodynamics, Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), Porsche Traction Management (PTM) four-wheel drive, 20-inch diameter forged alloy wheels, leather interior, automatic climate control, Bi-Xenon headlights, Porsche Communication Management (PCM) satellite navigation system, DAB digital radio with Bose Surround Sound, Bluetooth telephone module, a universal audio interface offering MP3 connectivity and a three year warranty.

The two new Porsche 911 Turbo series models will be available on the South African market at the end of October 2013.

Aston Martin V8 Vantage Review

Aston Martin is one of those brands which just oozes cool. From supplying vehicles to the silver screen, to a successful motorsport outfit, the Brits know what they’re doing. The Aston Martin range is quite comprehensive now and features five different models. How does the entry-level Aston Martin V8 Vantage fare?

Aston Martin V8 Vantage review by David Taylor

Beautiful to look at

Like all Astons, the Vantage is an exceedingly pretty car. It’s hard to fault something with such a beautiful design and the Morning Frost pearlescent paint only added to the visual magic. Whether driving or standing still the Aston Martin V8 Vantage is quite eye-catching and for a bit of entertainment, it was good fun driving through Camps Bay and watching people’s reactions.

Raw V8 power

Naturally a car like this must have some go to match the show and it doesn’t disappoint. With a 4.7-litre V8 engine, the Vantage has 313kW and 470Nm which means it’ll hit 100km/h in about 5 seconds and go onto a top speed of just under 300km/h.

The party trick of the Aston has to be the exhaust system. As the revs reach 4,000rpm, butterfly valves open and the result is the pure, unfiltered engine note singing out the back. The change in tone is definitely noticeable and it’d be fair to say the engine noise doubles. Under hard acceleration, the car sounds as if there’s a small Highveld thunderstorm following it about. Beautiful.

This particular Vantage was fitted with the six-speed automated manual gearbox called SportShift. It’s not nearly as good as the German double-clutch units found in the Aston’s rivals, but I’m assured later versions of the car came out with upgraded seven-speed transmissions. Still, this gearbox was good when pushing on the open road. Problems arose when the Aston was forced into bumper-to-bumper traffic. Much like a caged animal in a zoo, you could feel the car wasn’t happy and it just wanted to be let loose. That said, many high performance vehicles are like this and I feel sorry for anyone who has a manual gearbox on a six-figure super car.

Once clear of the traffic, you can get a feel for how the Aston Martin V8 Vantage performs. It’s quick between corners and the handling is confidence-building. I’m no professional racing driver, but at no point did I feel like the vehicle was a handful. Look, if you try accelerating out of a corner too quickly, you do run the risk of kicking the rear out so don’t say you haven’t been warned.

I get the feeling the Vantage is happiest when cruising around. Yes, it’s capable of hitting 200km/h and more without really trying, but as far as grand touring coupés go, this sort of driving is perfect. Also noteworthy are the massive brakes which provide excellent stopping power.

Classy interior

The interior is a lovely place to be, once you get used to the layout. For starters, the key slots into the middle of the dashboard and the starting procedure is quite unique. Slide the key in and hold it in the slot. Wait a second or two, and the meaty V8 fires up. The two seats in the Aston Martin V8 Vantage are only comfortable when you’ve spent time carefully setting them up. The cabin is covered in hand-stitched leather and it looks very impressive.

Sporty, yet practical

There are also comfort features like cruise control, climate control, auto headlamps, daytime running lights, park distance control as well as hands-free phone pairing. It’s practical too, with just enough boot space to take a set of golf clubs or luggage for a weekend away.

Aston Martin V8 Vantage – Conclusion

It’s fast, loud and is achingly beautiful. It’s a pleasure to drive on the open road and when you’re going flat out through twisty bends, you’re accompanied by one of the finest engine notes on the planet. My only gripes were that the Comfort mode button didn’t feel like it did anything (I was hoping the suspension would become super soft), the key looked a little cheap and the steering wheel gearshift paddles were connected to the actual wheel itself and not the steering column. All of these problems are quickly forgotten when you get out and take a look at what you’ve just been driving.

  • Why you should: Victoria’s Secret supermodel good looks, raucous engine note after 4,000rpm, can accelerate from zero to illegal speeds rather quickly, immense braking power.
  • Why you shouldn’t: Why wouldn’t you buy an Aston? Sure, the competition may be slightly faster/better engineered/cheaper, but they cannot match the class or prestige. The attention you’ll get from onlookers can get a bit much.
  • It would be better if: Comfort mode was actually comfortable, the key looked a bit more upmarket, the steering wheel paddle shifters turned with the wheel.
  • Competitors worth checking out: BMW 6-Series, Jaguar XK, Maserati GranTurismo, Mercedes-Benz SL500, Porsche 911, Audi R8

Ford Sales Summary for April 2013

Ford sales continued to perform well in the industry with a market share of 10.1%, the highest since December 2005. The Ford Ranger continued to sustain demand off last month’s all-time record sales with 1787 units sold in April 2013, the second-best month for Ranger sales since launch. Here is a breakdown of Ford sales figures including Top 5 model sales and the most popular Ford used cars for April 2013.

Ford sales summary – April 2013*

Total new car sales 5050
Total market share 10.1%
Total passenger vehicle sales 3003
Total Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) sales 2047

Top 5 Ford new passenger car sales – April 2013*

1. Ford Ranger 1787 units
2. Ford Figo 1163 units
3. Ford Fiesta 718 units
4. Ford Focus 456 units
5. Mazda 3 279 units

Most popular used Ford cars in South Africa – April 2013*

  1. Ford Focus
  2. Ford Fiesta
  3. Ford Ranger
  4. Ford Figo
  5. Ford Bantam

Ford in the news

*New car sales statistics via Naamsa
*Used car statistics via Cars.co.za

Volkswagen Golf 7 1.4 TSI Review

When the latest Volkswagen Golf 7 arrived, I found myself absolutely unexcited. I completely understand the importance of the car, but I felt like the game had moved on, and maybe it was time for Golf to move on as well. I couldn’t have been more wrong. The new Golf 7 is like that friend we all have who is so effortlessly good at everything that it’s actually quite annoying. If the Golf 7 was actually into golf, it would probably worry Rory McIlroy.

Volkswagen Golf 7 Engine Capability

The line up as it stands at launch will see three engines available, with each available in two states of tune. Petrol variants are limited to the 1.2 TSI and 1.4 TSI, and there is one diesel in the form of the 2.0 TDi. I drove the more powerful Golf 7 1.4, with 103kW and a healthy 250Nm, importantly available from low in the rev range, at just 1500rpm.

This means there is very little lag and the way it pulls cleanly and consistently through the rev range is as impressive as it is effortless. This is not your dad’s 1400. The goalposts haven’t moved so much as been obliterated. Other manufacturers have squeezed great power out of small engines, the 1.6 litre developed by Peugeot/Citroen for BMW’s Mini project is a particular peach, but that engine idles like a tractor in comparison. In the VW Golf 7, I kept thinking the engine was off.

Exterior Styling

I’ve already heard whinging from the general public that the new Golf just looks like the old Golf. I should know, I was a whinger. But side by side, the differences are obvious, and the Golf 7 is all the better for it. Sharper, tauter and sportier, the latest generation is slightly lower, longer and wider than its predecessor.
The easiest edits to spot are the front and rear lights, which are both narrower and more aggressive, while the rear end is sexier. I don’t envy whoever is tasked with Golf design. It has to appeal to men and women equally, pay homage to past versions, have enough aggression to handle the GTi and Golf R treatments down the line and not look silly, all the while appealing to every human on earth. That’s quite a design brief. Opinions will be divided on whether they’ve nailed it or not.

Interior Styling

This is where Volkswagen have cranked it up a notch. The interior of the Golf 7 feels like it was designed over seven years by an army of very intelligent Germans who never sleep. There are so many clever touches in here. All five seating positions have been redesigned and you can feel it. The driver’s seat is more reclined and feels more sportscar-like than should be possible in a boxy hatchback. The level of comfort is quite special in this segment, and combined with a massive effort to keep the cabin quiet, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were driving something much, much more expensive.

The Golf 7 comes standard with a 5 inch touch screen, with a bigger 5.8” or massive 8” available. The interface is modeled on smartphones, so you touch and swipe just as you would on your mobile device. The fascia is a little too shiny for my liking, but as a package it works well. The interior lighting is clever; tiny rear-facing blue lights in the roof trim illuminate the rear seats completely without bothering the driver. Rear seats fold almost flat, so you can easily squeeze in that designer wheel barrow and instant lawn.

Safety Features

Accident research has shown that in 25% of road accidents, one car experiences more than one collision. VW has introduced Multi Collision Braking to the Golf 7, which will automatically lock the brakes during an accident, to slow the car down for the next potential collision.
ABS and EBD are standard, as well as the Driver Alert System, which monitors the driver’s face and head for weariness, and signals loudly to wake you up a bit. Pre-crash occupant protection will kick in if the car detects an imminent collision or loss of control. The system will optimise the seatbelt tension, ready the airbags and close the windows and sunroof, leaving a little open as this is the best position to absorb impact.

Driving Capability

In an age where each successive car model seems to get fatter, the Volkswagen Golf 7 is up to 109kg lighter than the Golf 6. That’s almost a whole Bakkies Botha that you don’t have to carry around any more. The positive effect is multifold; fuel consumption, handling and acceleration are all improved.
I’m not a fan of front wheel drive but most of the downsides have been dialled out, and it feels like the amount of power is just right for the amount of traction available, although you can still quite easily light up the tyres, if you’re that way inclined. Which I am certainly not. Maybe. With the power a little high in the rev range, but with torque low down, there’s a satisfying amount of oomph in any gear.

The ride manages to be an almost mystical combo of sporty and smooth, handling road imperfections like they’re not there. You can really chuck it into corners as well; I can’t imagine how good the GTi and R versions are going to be. It always feels very sensible, but if you ask it to, the rather serious German will let its hair down and join the party.

VW Golf 7 conclusion

It’s an impressive car, but with an almost infinite number of the rivals, the latest Golf had to be more than impressive. It has to be rather special. And there is one aspect of the South African spec car that just blows my mind – the latest generation is on sale for exactly the same price as the outgoing model. In that sense, this is the bargain of the decade. Latest technology, latest safety features, latest styling, at no extra cost. No wonder the Volkswagen Golf 7 has been named World Car of the Year.

Volkswagen Golf 7 Price

Volkswagen Golf 7 from R233 800

VW Golf 7 specs

Engine 1.4 twin charged petrol
Transmission 6 speed manual or 7 speed DSG
Power Output 103kW at 4500rpm
Torque 250Nm at 1500rpm
Fuel Efficiency 6.4 l/100km (Euro combined cycle)
CO2 Emissions 121 g/km
0 – 100km/h 8.4 seconds
Top Speed 212km/h
Price R264 900

Most popular new cars in South Africa

New vehicle sales for April 2013 continued to reflect improved demand. This is according to the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (NAAMSA) which also confirmed that 34 346 new cars were sold in April 2013. This represents an improvement of 16.4% compared to the 29 516 new cars sold in April last year. Here are the top five best-selling new cars in South Africa for March 2013.

1. Toyota Hilux – 3 227 units

Once again South Africa’s most popular bakkie is at the top, selling a total of 3 227 units. The Toyota Hilux is available in three body styles including the Single Cab, Xtra Cab and Double Cab. Prices range from R186 700 to R475 900, depending on the model.

2. Volkswagen Polo Vivo – 2 762 units

Strengthening its top position in the passenger car market is the Polo Vivo. Having been very popular in 2012, the Vivo continues to be the best selling new car in the passenger car segment. Depending on the model, prices range from R11 900 for the 1.4-litre 2-door hatchback and R158 500 for the 1.6 Trendline sedan.

3. Volkswagen Polo – 2 160 units

Following quite closely with 2 160 units sold, the Polo takes the third spot amongst South Africa’s most popular new cars. Starting price for the 1.4-litre 2-door hatchback is R111 900 while the 1.6-litre Trendline sedan is available from R158 500.

4. Ford Ranger – 1 787 units

The Ford Ranger continued to show large demand in South Africa off last month’s all-time record sales with 1 787 units sold, the second-best month for Ranger sales since its launch. It also won the 2013 International Pick-Up Award and has been praised for its engine line-up, payload capacity, towing capacity, safety and performance both on and off the road. Prices range from R174 000 for the single cab, from R228 000 for the supercab, and from R259 400 for the double cab.

5. Chevrolet Utility – 1 628 units

The Chevrolet Utility dominated the sub-1 ton LCV market with 1 628 units sold. In 2012 the Chevrolet Utility range was expanded to a total of ten models offering three new efficient diesel variants available in Base AC, Club and Sport trim levels. Starting price for the 1.3 diesel Club is R172 400 and R189 100 for the 1.3 diesel Sport.

Most popular new car brands in South Africa for April 2013

According to the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa, a total of 50 920 new vehicles were sold in April 2013, representing a substantial increase when compared to April 2012 which was affected by the Easter holidays. Here is a breakdown of the best selling new car brands for April, as well as each brand’s top 5 selling vehicles.

Car Brand Volume Market Share
Toyota 9 896 19.4%
Volkswagen 9 342 18.3%
GMSA 5 110 10%

South Africa’s Top 3 selling new car brands

1. Toyota – 9 896 units

Toyota still maintains the title for South Africa’s best-selling car brand for April with a total market share of 19.4%. The brand sold well in both the passenger vehicle segment (4770 units) and in the Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) segment (4833 units). The best selling vehicles in the Toyota division include the Hilux bakkie which sold 3221 units, while the Toyota Etios proved to be popular in the passenger car segment with 1581 units sold.

Toyota top 5 selling new cars

Model April Sales (compared to March 2013)
Toyota Hilux 3 221 (3 637)
Toyota Etios 1 581 (1 736)
Toyota Quantum 1 354 (1 142)
Toyota Corolla/Auris 897 (1 224)
Toyota Fortuner 852 (993)

2. Volkswagen – 9 342 units

Volkswagen strengthened its leadership in the South African car passenger market in April 2013 and claims second place in the new vehicle sales rankings selling a total of 9342 units. The Polo Vivo and the Polo were the best selling vehicles for the Brand in April and remain popular choices among new car buyers.

Volkswagen top 5 selling new cars

Model April Sales (Compared to March 2013)
VW Polo Vivo 2 762 (2 939)
VW Polo 2 160 (2 596)
VW Amarok 589 (510)
VW Golf 7 551 (405)
VW Tiguan 538 (324)

3. GMSA – 5 110 units

GM South Africa accounted for 5110 of the total car sales with a market share of 10%. Within the GMSA range the Spark continued to attract buyers in the small car sector selling 433 units, remaining as one of the most popular vehicles in its class. The Chevrolet Utility dominated the Light Commercial segment with 1628 units while the recently launched Isuzu KB accounted for sales of 1047 units.

GMSA top 5 selling new cars

Model April Sales (Compared to March 2013)
Chevrolet Utility 1 628 (1 465)
Isuzu KB 1 047 (897)
Chevrolet Spark 474 (416)
Chevrolet Cruze 429 (382)
Chevrolet Aveo 325 (322)

Cars.co.za launches App for iPhone and iPad


Cars.co.za app
Cars.co.za is proud to announce the launch of our brand new App for iPhone and iPad!

The Cars.co.za App, which has been in development since 2012, plans to take car buying in South Africa to the next level, and comes with many groundbreaking features.

Cars.co.za App functionality

Powerful used car search

As the backbone of the Cars.co.za offering, the latest search technology has been incorporated into the Cars.co.za App’s used car search facility. The revamped search facility offers the following functionality:

  • Simple “Quick search” facility
  • Advanced search facility
  • Multiple criteria support
  • Comprehensive sorting options
  • Favourite tagging
  • Multiple images
  • Tilt for full screen images
  • Simple contact form

New cars support

The Cars.co.za App is one of the first Apps in South Africa to support new car buying. The App comes with a new car research tool, comprising of a full database of new cars available in South Africa. A list of new car specials is also available.

Latest motoring news

To complement our research tools, the Cars.co.za App also provides users with all the latest motoring news and reviews. Find out everything you need to know about your car of choice prior to purchase.

Other services and tools

The Cars.co.za App’s tools section includes a car finance calculator and insurance quote generators as supplementary services.

Download the Cars.co.za App now

South African iStore
United States iStore

Renault Clio 4 Expression Review

Allow me to start off this review with the announcement that my own car is a Renault Clio II and my parents have owned two other Renaults in the time I’ve been around. This means I personally have high hopes for this all-new Renault Clio 4 Expression and much is expected of it.

Renault Clio 4 Expression Review by David Taylor

Best-looking B-segment car

For starters it looks damn good. In this particular segment of the market, car buyers appear to be more concerned with reliability and satisfying the need for basic transportation than owning something which could be construed as fashionable and fun. Compared to average B-segment cars, the fourth generation Renault Clio is a work of art. With a big Renault diamond slapped into the middle of the front bumper which also features daytime running lights, the new Renault Clio 4 Expression looks rather aggressive from head on. The flame red paintjob also helped contribute to the Clio’s visual appeal.

Super-small engine is adequate

The all-new Renault Clio 4 Expression is powered by one of the smallest engines to see duty in a passenger car. It’s a 0.9-litre three cylinder with 66kW and 135Nm. Don’t be put off by the fact it’s not even a 1.0-litre as it has just enough grunt to match most of its 1.4 and 1.6 rivals. The upside of such a small engine is it’s supposed to be much lighter on fuel and it is, once you get the hang of driving it correctly. It also features start/stop technology to help save a bit of petrol while sitting at intersections.

The thing is, while it doesn’t feel under powered; you do need to give it a bit of a booting to keep up with traffic which will hurt the fuel consumption figure. If you do a lot of open road/highway driving, you’ll enjoy how the little Clio trundles along at the national speed limit while sipping around the 5L/100km mark. I had the car for a week and I drove on both urban and highway roads very gently and came away with 5.9L/100km. That said, if you drive it even slightly aggressively, you’ll see it climb to around 6.5L/100km.

Entertaining to drive

Clios are renowned for the way they drive. Even the entry level models are fun and involving, and the new one is no different. It feels quite sporty to drive and a few blasts down some twisty roads underlined the fact Renault is marketing this car as a fun and funky city runabout. The top-of-the-range Dynamique model rides on 17-inch alloys, whereas my test unit was the Expression version which features 16-inch wheels with higher profile rubber. On the launch I found the Dynamique was a little on the firm side for my liking, but the Expression with the smaller wheels is more pleasant. Look, it’s still firm and sporty but I like that in a hatchback.

Everything you’ll ever need comes fitted standard

The ace in Renault’s hand is the specification level of the new Clio. It’s well-and-truly loaded with everything you’ll ever need in a vehicle. I’ve seen cars costing double which don’t have as much in them. There’s cruise control with speed limiter, Bluetooth phone pairing, air conditioner, digital speedo, comprehensive trip computer, satnav, front and rear fog lamps, daytime running lights, LCD touchscreen infotainment system with MP3/USB/Aux radio and auto start/stop. There are also controls on and behind the steering wheel for cruise control and audio respectively. Renault is one of the safety-conscious brands and the new Clio receives a full whack of safety features too.

Renault Clio 4 Expression – Conclusion

Yes, I am impressed with how the new Clio turned out. It doesn’t have quite the same amount of go as its predecessors, but there are hotter versions on their way. The bottom line is I think Renault has done a terrific job here. There’s a desperate need for fun, affordable motoring and the Clio ticks the boxes. It has all the gadgets and toys you’ll ever need, yet won’t break the bank. I wouldn’t bother going for the top of the range Dynamique. Save yourself R10k and lose the low profile 17-inch wheels for a softer ride.

Based on the fact that three of my friends (one of them a motor journalist) have purchased Clio 4s shows I’m not the only one who thinks this car is great. I think we have a strong contender for a Car of The Year award…

Renault Clio 4 Expression – Price

Renault Clio 4 Expression – R169 900

  • Why you should: Best looking car in its class, supreme levels of specification, astounding value for money, a fun car to drive.
  • Why you shouldn’t: it’s not the fastest thing around, fuel efficient only when driven gently.
  • It would be better if: it had a proper key not the silly credit card thing.
  • View the Renault Clio: New / Used
  • Competitors worth checking out: Kia Rio, Chevrolet Sonic, Volkswagen Polo, Hyundai i20, Ford Fiesta, Honda Jazz

Chevrolet Spark celebrates first year of local production

General Motors South Africa’s (GMSA) locally-produced Chevrolet Spark celebrates its first year of South African production this month with five different and distinct models to choose from.

Chevrolet Spark is the small business solution vehicle

The Chevrolet Spark Pronto is fitted with a 1.2-litre petrol engine producing 60 kW of power and 108Nm of torque and is mated to a five-speed manual gearbox. Fuel consumption is rated at 5.4-litres/100 km on the combined average cycle and CO2 emissions of 129 g/km.

The Chevrolet Spark Pronto is a perfect solution for small businesses, and serves as a practical and versatile city runabout. The Spark Pronto still features the same high levels of passenger comfort and safety as found in other Spark models, which include dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, power steering, remote central locking and air conditioning all available as standard.

“Thanks to the flexibility afforded to us due to the local manufacture of the ever-popular Chevrolet Spark, we have been able to tailor the local range and offer South Africans really unique options to suit their tastes. The new Spark Pronto fills a gap in the market where small businesses may not have been able to afford or require a bona fide bakkie like the Chevrolet Utility – now they can enjoy a purpose-built compact commercial vehicle which not only offers generous practicality but also comes with the verve offered by other Spark derivatives,” said Chevrolet Brand Manager, Tim Hendon.

Chevrolet Spark offers option for every need

Complementing the Spark Pronto and Campus models, the revised range consists of the new Spark, Spark LS and Spark LT derivatives. Each of these vehicles offer enhanced levels of specification and added allure.

The Chevrolet Spark range is further enhanced by the new premium look and feel of the LS and LT models, which continue along the strong lines created in the A-segment by the original Spark L and LS models.

The Spark LS features chrome detailing, 14-inch alloy wheels, electric front windows and mirrors, auto-locking doors and steering wheel-mounted audio controls. The range-topping Spark LT sports 15-inch alloy wheels, extra colour-coding on the body, electric windows at the rear, side airbags, rear parking sensors and an optional decal package.

Chevrolet Spark – Price

View the Chevrolet Spark

Chevrolet Spark Pronto R101 500
Chevrolet Spark Campus R106 100
New Chevrolet Spark R113 600
Chevrolet Spark LS R123 00
Chevrolet Spark LT R136 500

The comprehensive new Chevrolet Spark range comes standard with a 5-year/ 120 000 km warranty and comprehensive Roadside Assistance, as well as five years’ anti-corrosion cover. A service plan is available on all models as an optional extra on purchase.