Nissan NP200 Review

Heaps of torque, biggest load-bed that carries the most weight, but interior makes you want to rather sit with the load at the back. Meet the Nissan NP200…

Nissan NP200 bakkie review by John Beale

The half-ton bakkie market in South Africa is a big earner. The Opel Corsa bakkie (now Chevrolet Utility) has been the top selling half-ton bakkie for many years, but not resting on their laurels, Nissan entered the market a few years back with the locally produced NP200, and the fleet manager for ADT must have rejoiced. Now, Nissan proudly takes just under 50% of the half-ton market. It’s a tough battle between the Chev Ute and the NP200, as Ford has left the scene.

Let me be frank, the top range models, like the one featured here, are not the volume pushers, but rather appeal to first time car buyers or those needing a load-bed, but not the bigger bakkie capacity. Imagine you’d want to put your bike on the back and head out to Northern Farms.

Exterior

With additional body coloured bumpers and 15 inch alloy rims, the high spec NP200 is differentiated from the ADT fleet vehicles. Looks don’t offend (not the point in this segment), but it’s far less controversial than the Chevy Ute, which pushed many Corsa Bakkie owners to drink when they saw the new model.

Nissan NP200 performance

A 1.5litre produces 63kW and a healthy 200NM at 1900RPM, and you can feel the grunt in this very light body. With a claimed fuel consumption of 5.3l/100km you’ll also easily get over 600km out of a tank. The unit is gutsy and does the vehicle justice with good torque low down in the rev range. Drive, as expected, is typical bakkie fare, stiff and bumpy. Brakes are equipped with ABS and EBD and dual airbags are standard on the High spec. Steering is power assisted and communicates well. The mechanics of the Nissan NP200 are solid.

Interior

The interior however, is just not what you’d expect when paying close to R200 000 for a vehicle. A basic carbon copy of the Renault Sandero, plastic adorns the cabin, and even though the driver’s seat is height adjustable, the back of the cloth seat is too short for my 6-foot frame. The steering wheel sits facing high up like a plate and the plastic covering it is slippery. Behind the seats are 300-litres of luggage capacity, which you’re going to need to hide anything worth its salt in weight from prying eyes. There is a very low spec sound system with Aux input, air-conditioning, fog lamps, immobilizer, central locking, electric windows and mirrors but that’s where it all ends. The plastics look and feel cheap, which is acceptable for any of the models but this one pitched at private leisure owners. The Chev Ute surpasses on the interior, but only just. This is where recycled plastic goes to die.

Where the Nissan NP200 does excel is in the load bed, here covered with tonneau cover, is the largest in segment (1807mm), and has class-leading carrying ability of 800kgs! The Corsa Ute 1.3 Diesel Sport does with 1680mm length and 703kgs. Rubberised load-bed with 4 hooks on the load-bed to tie down items is standard.

Nissan NP200 – Conclusion

Where the Nissan NP200 excels in load carrying capacity and engine, it falls flat on interior. The Chevrolet picks up the game on looks, interior and spec, but can’t match on the carrying capacity or engine. I would personally go for the Corsa Ute Sport, but if the capacity is an issue it would logically have to be the Nissan, and you’d grin and bear the horrid interior.

Nissan NP200 – Price

Nissan NP200 1.5dCI High (63kW/200Nm) -R196 500

  • Warranty/service: 6yr/150 000km warranty, service plan can be bolted on.
  • View the Nissan NP200 bakkie: New / Used
  • Competitors worth checking out:

Honda CR-V 2.4 Executive AT Review

The Honda CR-V has been around since 1995 and been a serious success story for the Japanese brand. The fourth generation of this popular family soft-roader has arrived in the South African car market and one has to wonder how Honda has improved an already award-winning package.

Honda CR-V 2.4 Review by David Taylor

Honda expands the CR-V

The first thing I noticed about the new Honda CR-V is it looks a little bigger than its predecessor, especially at the rear. The front receives a complete makeover and now features a modern-looking bumper complete with LED daytime running lights. While it may not physically be larger, the new Honda CR-V runs on a redesigned chassis which means the cabin space can be better used. The boot for instance, is larger than before and can be expanded by flicking the handles on either side of the boot’s interior. The rear seats fold away automatically and the boot looks big enough to sleep two in comfort.

Speaking of cabin space, the Honda CR-V is as big and as comfortable as they come. I was in the Executive derivative and this version comes supremely well-equipped in terms of tech as well as feeling quite luxurious and well-built. The car comes with active cornering lights, rear parking camera, memory seats which are heated, multi information display, cruise control, climate control, Bluetooth hands-free phone pairing, a rather potent sound system with subwoofer as well as USB/Aux input in the centre armrest. In fact, the only thing missing from the Honda CR-V is satellite navigation. An added plus is the pairing for your phone and USB music input is super easy and takes just a few minutes to set up.

All-wheel drive and a 2.4-litre engine

The Honda CR-V features an electronically-controlled four-wheel drive system. In normal conditions the vehicle drives through the front wheels, but as soon as they lose grip, power is sent to the rear wheels to push it along. The car keeps checking the road at all times, which ensures fuel economy is kept down.

Speaking of fuel economy and performance, the CR-V’s 2.4-litre engine pushes out 140kW and 220Nm. Honda claims the CR-V will drink just 8.7L/100km, but in reality a 1.6 ton SUV driving in an urban environment will see the fuel consumption shoot up. Despite my gentle driving tactics, the CR-V sat around the 10L/100km which is what I was expecting.

How does it drive?

The Honda CR-V has its strength with on-road manners. Thanks to a smooth-shifting five-speed automatic gearbox, it just feels so refined especially when driven in a relaxed manner. Put your foot down and the Honda CR-V leaps forward with a surprising surge. Even though there are steering wheel paddles, I’d leave them alone and let the vehicle do its own gear changes.

One thing you’ll also notice about the Honda CR-V is it encourages you to drive responsibly though the use of two light strips surrounding the speedo. Drive gently and they glow green. Put your foot flat and the lights go off. While I’m on the subject of eco, there’s an eco-mode which further boosts fuel consumption.

I took the Honda CR-V onto a particular muddy section of dirt road and despite my best efforts, couldn’t get it stuck. Thanks to the clever all-wheel drive, it refused to get lodged in the brown stuff and felt quite stable when pushing hard on some loose gravel. It may be able to do mild offroading, but beware, there’s no low-range and no lockable diff if you intend to really rough it. Still, for something which ticks all boxes to be classed a ‘mommy car’, the Honda CR-V is better than most.

Honda CR-V – Conclusion

The fourth generation of the CR-V continues the tradition of Honda’s popular soft-roader. It’s superb on the tar and boasts extreme levels of comfort while cruising. Few cars are this comfortable while driving on the national road and the all-wheel drive provides reassurance when you’re on slippery terrain. That said, the Honda CR-V isn’t going to be able to take you across sand dunes, but it’s a brilliant all-rounder never the less. It scores highly in my opinion due to the upmarket feel, levels of practicality and the fact that it feels like you’re in your favourite lounge chair when driving.

Honda CR-V – Price

Honda CR-V 2.4 Executive – R444 900

  • Why you should: One of the most comfortable vehicles ever, loads of spec, all-wheel drive assurance, practicality galore.
  • Why you shouldn’t: R450k is a lot of money for a Honda, rivals cost significantly less, petrol engine isn’t the most thrifty (there’s an excellent 2.2-litre diesel)
  • It would be better if: I can’t help feeling a six-speed auto would help consumption, the driving position suited really tall people.
  • View the Honda CR-V: New / Used
  • Competitors worth checking out: Hyundai IX35, Kia Sportage, Nissan X-Trail, Subaru Forester, Volkswagen Tiguan.

Lamborghini Aventador LP 720-4 50 celebrates anniversary

In celebration of its 50th anniversary, the Lamborghini Aventador LP 720-4 50 was presented at the Shanghai Motor Show. The model is fitted with exclusive equipment and technology, and is upholstered with a variety of fresh and exciting colours.

Lamborghini Aventador LP 720-4 50 – Specifications and Features

Engine Capability

The limited edition Lamborghini Aventador LP 720-4 50 is powered by a 6.5-litre V12 engine that develops 529 kW of power and is connected to an ISR transmission which enables the model to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 2.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 350 km/h.

Exterior and Interior Design Features

The special edition Lamborghini Aventador LP 720-4 50 is designed with a two-tone exterior and with exclusive Giallo Maggio paint that is contrasted by matte black trim and gloss black wheels. The rear and front fascias have been further optimised to improve aerodynamics, and are also clothed in a two-tone Giallo Maggio and matte black design. This is to emphasize the Aventador’s streamlined shape. The front air intakes and the aerodynamic splitter have been enlarged and extended, with small flaps set into the sides.

The inside is upholstered in specifically developed fine, natural, and semi-aniline leather. The colours offered in the interior are all inspired by Lamborghini’s home in the Italian region of Emilia-Romagna.

As with all Lamborghini models built in 2013, the Aventador LP 720-4 50 will feature the 50th anniversary emblem in the cockpit, produced in a carbon-fibre material patented by Lamborghini.

Production is limited to a 100 models.

Peugeot 208 1.2 VTI Active Review

Peugeot’s all-new 208 shows off the company’s new philosophy of a streamlined, downsized and affordable range.

Peugeot 208 1.2 VTI Active reviewed by David Taylor

We’re all well-aware the French car making-trio Peugeot, Citroen and Renault aren’t having the best of luck financially especially in the European market. Peugeot especially relies on sales of its smaller city cars and this is why the Peugeot 208 has to be a very good offering. The French at Peugeot are pitching their 208 directly into one of the most hotly-contested markets in South Africa, the B-segment.

The exterior

From first impressions, the Peugeot 208 has a distinct girly look about it – a fact confirmed by the number of girls who admired the car. It’s not a problem at all and it follows on from the classic 206 and 207. These cars are meant to be fashionable runabouts, which are designed to navigate the narrow, cobbled backstreets of a Parisian suburb, which brings me to my next point. Upon delivery I was quite surprised at how small the Peugeot 208 is. A quick glance online at one of the many car data websites confirmed the new version is 7cm shorter than the 207.

The Peugeot 208 interior

Being a taller than usual guy, I was a little worried I wouldn’t fit. Thankfully, I’m glad I was wrong and the new Peugeot 208 is actually quite spacious inside. Even with three passengers, at no point did I feel cramped. Massive kudos to Peugeot for accomplishing this near-impossible task! Then I worked out that the boot space must have been compromised as a result of the interior spaciousness, and again I was wrong. The Peugeot 208 features a boot, which can hold a useful 331L worth of stuff.

Performance

I was driving the 1.2 VTI Active version which is powered by a naturally-aspirated 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine with 60kW and 118Nm. It may sound small and slow, but when you consider the 208 tips the scales at 970-odd kg, it suddenly seems okay. The added bonus of this small engine is you don’t get nailed at the fuel pump. Peugeot claims a combined figure of 4.5L/100km and I was seeing 5.9L/100km which I blame on the fun, zesty nature and addictive sound. For those who don’t know, a three-cylinder motor has a delicious little growl to it. Some have even suggested it sounds like a Porsche 911…

Performance is okay. It’s not the fastest little thing around, nor does it intend to be. If you want a fast Peugeot, the 208 GTI is on its way to our shores in the near future. I discovered the Peugeot 208 suddenly becomes quite fun especially in town where it thinks it’s a go-kart. I blame the go-kart tendencies on the smaller than usual steering wheel. It is rather good fun, especially when you’re charging through traffic circles and best of all, you can push hard and fuel consumption doesn’t become unreasonable. Drive like this in a turbocharged hot hatch and the consumption figure almost doubles.

Features

This particular Active model has quite a few comfort features, which give it a bit of an edge over the competition. There’s an LCD screen which acts as an interface for the radio, USB, Bluetooth phone controls; there are steering wheel-mounted controls for cruise control and radio, folding mirrors, trip computer and a number of safety features. The audio system is a little complicated, but when you take the time to learn how it works, it’s rather smart. You may be buying a budget car, but that’s no excuse not to have all the safety features like four airbags and ABS.

The Peugeot 208 1.2 – Conclusion

As good as the specification level and space inside the Peugeot 208 is, this Peugeot is going up against some tough competition from established rivals. Yes, it is good, but there are products which will be chosen purely on badge preference and after-sales service. Despite the hard work done here by the French, the old curse of servicing and resale will haunt them, which is a shame as the list price includes a 3-year/100 000km warranty and a 5-year/60 000km service plan. That said, the Peugeot 208 offers a stylish, comfortable alternative to the masses and for me, the fact you’re driving something which has a personality is what makes this little car rather good.

Peugeot 208 – Price

Peugeot 208 1.2 VTI Active – R169 900

  • Why you should: fun to drive, bursting with character, zippy engine, light on fuel, good specification.
  • Why you shouldn’t: Feminine design, stiff competition in this segment, French resale and servicing curse may hurt in the long run.
  • It would be better if: the driving position was altered slightly. Despite my best efforts the top of the steering wheel blocks the digital speedometer. It should be perfect if you’re not 6ft tall!
  • View the Peugeot 208: New / Used
  • Competitors worth checking out: Toyota Yaris, Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Polo, Renault Clio, Kia Rio, Hyundai i20, Chevrolet Sonic, Mazda2, Opel Corsa, Citroen C3.

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Toyota Fortuner 2.5D Automatic Review

A unique combination of 7 seats, automatic gearbox, off-road ability and ground clearance at this price make the Toyota Fortuner an appealing buy for those who don’t care for ride comfort.

Toyota Fortuner 2.5D Automatic review by John Beale

I bet you had no idea that the Toyota Fortuner is still the best selling privately owned vehicle in SA according to Naamsa. What is basically a Hilux with a closed loadbed and extra seats, is one of the most successful vehicles from Toyota South Africa to date. December 2012 saw the entry-level 2.5 Diesel being added to the range at R357 000, making the range even more appealing to cost conscious buyers.

Exterior and interior features

Looks do not differ much from the more expensive variants, and I for one like the dual spoke rims, but cannot say I’m a fan of the aftermarket looking lights on the update. The interior is trimmed down to the bare minimum, with cloth (suade) seats, manual aircon but thank goodness, electric windows all round. The standard Cressida clock and on-board computer from 1996 is there, as well as Aux / USB ports in dash. There’s ample space for bottles / cups and a good size centre-console under armrest as well. It’s typical Toyota quality, with harder cream colour plastics, but everything feels solid and will appeal to those that have owned a Toyota.

Families will enjoy the versatility of the Toyota Fortuner, even this model sports 7 seats, the 2nd row folds and rolls forward with the 3rd row folding down from the roof. Getting the 3rd row down does require a bit of effort, but it’s fairly easy to figure out. The 2nd row of seats then folds forward for access, and also has the ability to roll forward to give the 3rd row even more leg space, something the Trailblazer doesn’t offer. Full separate airconditioning for rear passengers is also a welcome addition.

 Safety features

Keeping the family safe is ABS, EBD as well as Vehicle Stability Control and driver and passenger airbags. I was however surprised that there were no curtain or side airbags, which was standard on the Trailblazer.

The drive and handling

Drive is ok, thanks to fat rubber on the 17inch rims, but the Hilux chassis does still scuttle and shake in town. Sitting on a raised chassis, it doesn’t roll as much as I thought it would in corners. It is however a comfortable ride on dirt roads where it soaks up anything in its path. The steering and brakes communicate well (drum brakes rear) and get the job done.

Performance

The 2.5diesel puts out the same amount of torque (343Nm) as the more powerful 3D-4D but the lack in power (106kW) can be felt when pulling away, with quite a bit of turbo lag especially when mated with the 4 speed auto. That said, it is actually a great combo, with little effort required to get around town and on the highway, albeit not quickly. You do have to judge overtaking a little carefully as the torque and power band is slim, but for a lifestyle drive, this is all that you really need if you’re not really going serious off-roading. (Rear Diff lock is standard). On long distance I eventually got the claimed 10km/l, but city driving knocked that 7km/l. (Note KM/L)

The Toyota Fortuner conclusion

As an entry level lifestyle offering, with generous amount of space, the opportunity to seat 7 and go off-road until it gets pretty damn tough is appealing at this price. You probably don’t need the 4×4 D-4D, so just get this one and you’ll be saving a good R100K. The interior is a bit bare bones, it’s a mission to park without sensors, cruise control would be really nice Toyota, and no woman would be able to change a flat tyre …BUT … it’s an appealing offering to get into the range if you require the off-road ability, ground clearance, space and seating. I would also recommend the automatic, as it makes for a lot more relaxed drive.

Toyota Fortuner – Price

Toyota Fortuner 2.5D-4D Auto 106kW/343NM – R357 000

5yr/90 000km service plan is standard.

  • View the Toyota Fortuner: New / Used
  • Competitors worth checking out:
      • (Note there is no competition that has an Auto Box)
      • Chevrolet Trailblazer 2,5 LT 4×2 – 110kW/350NM – R364 000 (Manual)
        Ford Everest 3,0TDCI 4×2 XLT – 115kW/380NM – R377 000 (Manual)

Ford Ranger line-up expands with powerful single-cab

The Ford Ranger bakkie line-up has expanded with the addition of two new Single Cab derivatives powered by Ford’s 3.2-litre diesel powertrain.

Ford Ranger gets more power

Engine Capability

The 3.2 TDCi units are available in 4×2 and 4×4 guise, both offered in XLS specification and mated to a six-speed manual transmission.

The 3.2 Duratorg TDCi five-cylinder diesel produces 147kW of power and a torque figure of 470Nm with fuel consumption rated at 9.3 litres/100km on a combined cycle. Emissions are measured at 245g/km on both the 4×2 and 4×4 models.

The 4×4 model has a towing capacity of 3350kg when fitted with the range topping diesel engine. Both derivatives can achieve 800mm wade depth at a speed of 7 km/h.

Load box volume is 1.82m, and pockets above the wheel wells and along the side of the box allow owners to use timber inserts to carry full sheets of plasterboard or plywood.

“The Ranger has been designed to cater to a wide spectrum of customers. Both fleet buyers and small business owners will now be able to take advantage of the greater selection of models on offer while enjoying the quality, fuel efficiency, safety and smart technology that have made the Ranger such a popular choice with South African consumers.” said Gavin Golightly, Ford Marketing Manager.

Ford Ranger – Price

View the new Ford Ranger

Ranger 3.2 XLS HR 6MT Single Cab diesel R315 200
Ranger 3.2 XLS 4×4 6MT Single Cab diesel R361 900

All Ford Ranger derivatives except the base models will be available with a five-year/90 000km service plan and a comprehensive four-year/120 000km warranty with service intervals of 15 000kms. Customers will also benefit from three years of roadside assistance and a five year corrosion warranty as part of the Ford Ranger package. Additionally, Ranger 4×4 customers receive free off-road driver training.

Volkswagen iBeetle unveiled with integrated iPhone dock

The Shanghai Motor Show featured the Volkswagen iBeetle which was created as a partnership between Volkswagen and Apple. The special edition iBeetle comes integrated with iPhone functionality, which will interface with the vehicle through a specially developed app and a docking station.

The innovative interface between iPhone and Volkswagen iBeetle

This creative new app includes a vehicle-integrated docking station which is located centrally on the dashboard of the iBeetle. When launched on the iPhone, the app can either connect the phone to iBeetle via the docking station or wirelessly.

Once connected, the app can run a number of features including Spotify, which lets users stream media and songs, Postcard, for sharing vehicle location, Photo, for sharing interior photos, Trainer, which allows drivers to compare driving specs with previous drives and other Beetle owners through social media, and Reader, which will read text and Facebook messages aloud.

The most distinctive of the features is the Expert. It offers five functions which make the iPhone an extended on-board instrument of the iBeetle, such as a G-Metre (for measuring lateral acceleration), oil and coolant temperature gauges for the engine, a chronometer, and a compass.

The Volkswagen iBeetle features unique styling

The special edition Volkswagen iBeetle is one of the first cars in the world to have an iPhone interface coordinated by Apple. It will be available as a Coupe and Convertible, featuring colour schemes influenced by Apple products. The 18-inch disc alloy wheels are painted in Galvano Grey with chrome wheel covers, side trim panels and door mirror housings in the same hue, bespoke black door sill plates, ‘iBeetle’ chrome badges on the front fender and chrome pack bringing chrome trim strips on the sides.

Inside the model has a dash pad and steering wheel which are finished in Galvano Grey, along with light Ceramique stitching for the sport seats which are wrapped around in black Vienna leather. The shift lever grip has also been reworked for this special edition Beetle and Beetle Convertible.

The new Volkswagen iBeetle will be available in Candy White, Oryx White Mother of Pearl Effect, Black Monochrome, Deep Black Pearl Effect, Platinum Grey, or Reflex Silver.

Both special models will be launched at the beginning of 2014.

Volkswagen CrossBlue Coupe Hybrid Concept shown

The Volkswagen CrossBlue Coupe Hybrid Concept has been unveiled at the 2013 Shanghai Motor Show. The sporty CrossBlue concept coupe is based on the new modular transverse matrix (MQB) architecture and features a plug-in V6 petrol-electric hybrid drivetrain.

Volkswagen CrossBlue Coupe Hybrid Concept is a sleek machine

The sporty CrossBlue Coupe Hybrid Concept is fitted with a fuel efficient plug-in hybrid powertrain, a turbocharged direct injection (TSI) V6 petrol engine that works together with two electric motors to produce around 305kw of power. It accelerates to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds, and its maximum speed is 236 km/h. Combined fuel consumption is rated at 3.0-litres/100km.

Even in hybrid mode (sub-cycle with discharged battery powered by just the TSI drive), the SUV consumes just 6.9-litres/100 km of fuel. This value enables a theoretical range of around 1190km, with a fuel tank capacity of 80 litres before the car needs to be refuelled.

Exterior Design Features

The CrossBlue concept coupe features a long and broad hood, a very short overhang and a long roofline. The dynamic exterior design is further improved by a short A-pillar, a swept back C-pillar and a distinctive character line. To balance the dimensions of the body, the concept is fitted with large 22-inch wheels, wheel-arches with dark plastic protections and five V-shaped dual spokes in matte finish on their inner surfaces.

The doors open wide for optimal entry and egress and extend down into the sill area. The fuel filler neck is located under a lid on the right side of the vehicle, while the cover for the electrical outlet is located on the left side.

The front end incorporates a 3D look with free standing LED headlights; an LED light signature and radiator grille trim which consists of two polished aluminium struts and VW logo extending into the headlights. The entire grille is surrounded by a high-gloss black frame.

Additional key element designs include LED rear lights also in a 3D look, skidplates integrated into this anthracite-coloured piece and prominent tailpipes designed in stainless steel.

Interior Design Features

The elegant and clean interior features a horizontal dashboard graphic that extends into the side door trims. Sophisticated materials such as velvety soft Nappa leather in ‘Anthracite Pearl and Asphalto’ are used throughout the interior. The roof pillars and headliner are decorated in Graphite Alcantara colour.

Additionally, the CrossBlue Concept is fitted with five seats upholstered in elegant Nappa leather, with the rear bench seat offering fore-and-aft adjustment, three backrest positions, and folds in a two- thirds/one-third style.

The central 10.1-inch touchscreen is used to control all the infotainment and entertainment functions. The programmable instrument cluster is designed with analogue gauges, and a centre dial used to access functions such as gear selection, driving range, date and time, and navigation functionalities. The head restraints of the first seating row feature a mobile mini iPad so that rear passengers can fully enjoy the audio, video and online programs.

“The disproportion growth in the SUV segment gives the designers the opportunity to implement an even greater diversification of models. The CrossBlue Coupe shows the potential of our Volkswagen design DNA and will undoubtedly have an influence on future SUV models.” said Klaus Bischoff, Head of Design for the Volkswagen Brand.

Volvo launches world first injection technology

Later this year, Volvo will launch the world’s first injection technology in the new VEA (Volvo Engine Architecture) engine variants. This new injection technology will help in cutting fuel consumption in these new diesel engines as it replaces 8 existing Ford and VCC engine architectures in three platforms.

Volvo i-Art process paves the way for injection technology

The i-ART technology will feature pressure feedback from each fuel injector as opposed to using a traditional single pressure sensor in the common rail. This will make it possible to continuously monitor and adapt fuel injection per combustion in each of the four cylinders.

“Increasing the rail pressure to an exceptionally high 2500 Bar, while adding the i-ART technology, can be described as the second step in the diesel revolution. It is a breakthrough comparable to when we invented the ground-breaking lambda sensor for the catalytic converter in 1976. It’s another world-first for Volvo,” said Derek Crabb, Vice President Powertrain Engineering at Volvo Car Group.

He adds: “Each injector has a small computer on top, which monitors injection pressure. Using this information, the self-adapting i-ART system makes sure that the ideal amount of fuel is injected during each combustion cycle.”

Injection technology improves fuel economy and more

The combination of the higher injection pressure and the i-ART technology will give the customer an engine with improved fuel economy, lower emissions and high performance output.

In addition to the VEA, Volvo will also introduce a new 8-speed automatic gearbox to contribute to a refined drive and excellent fuel economy. The range of diesel and petrol engines will consist of the diesel common rail and petrol direct injection as standard, namely the Volvo Engine Petrol (VEP) and Volvo Engine Diesel (VED).

Several levels of turbo charging open up for the flexibility to cover the whole range from fuel-efficient derivatives through to high power and torque variants. To meet all customer requirements, some engines will also gain added performance through electrification or other spearhead technology.

Engines Variants

The engines will be built at Volvo Car Group’s high-tech engine plant in Skovde, Sweden but South Africans can expect to see the new VEA engines early in 2014. The engines will be available with the following derivatives:

VEP4 (206kW) in Volvo S60, V60 and XC60, all with Automatic transmission.

VEP4 (169kW) in Volvo S60, V60 and XC60, all with Automatic transmission.

VED4 MP 181hp (133kW) in Volvo S60, V60 and XC60 with Manual and Automatic transmission.

Further detailed specification and pricing will be revealed closer to the launch date.

New Ford Mondeo sets benchmark at Shanghai Motor Show

The all new Ford Mondeo was unveiled at the Shanghai Motor Show sporting expressive design, advanced technology and the latest 1.5-litre EcoBoost Engine offering first-rate fuel economy.

New Ford Mondeo boasts impressive tech and styling

Engine Capability

The new Ford Mondeo will be the first car in its segment to be equipped with a 1.5-litre EcoBoost engine projected to produce 133kW of power at 6500 rpm and 240Nm of torque at 4500 rpm. The Mondeo will also be available with a 2.0-litre EcoBoost engine producing 178kW of power at 5500 rpm and a maximum torque figure of 350Nm at 3000 rpm. Both engines will be mated to a six speed automatic transmission.

Exterior Design Features

The elegant exterior features a lean side profile sculpted to convey visual lightness, and a sophisticated front end with Ford’s new trapezoidal grille and a power dome bonnet.

The innovative silhouette’s efficiency is made up of thin roof pillars and character lines that sweep to the rear. It is also the first Ford model to feature headlamps with LED high-beam, low beam and signal lighting. To improve ride comfort and noise reduction, the new Ford Mondeo will debut an all-new premium level integral link suspension.

Interior Design Features

The Mondeo’s functional design elements also come across in the interior which features Multi-Contour seats with Active Motion and 11 air cushions that provide side and lumbar support. The seats are also equipped with rear inflatable seat belts which combine attributes of an airbag. Added driver support includes a higher centre console.

Mondeo’s class leading exclusive technologies include the MyKey feature, auto high-beam control, Lane Keeping System, Active City Stop, Adaptive Cruise Control, Active park assist and a Blind Spot Information System (BLIS).

In addition to these technologies, the Mondeo also offers the latest iteration of Ford’s award-winning, industry-exclusive SYNC communications and entertainment system. SYNC with MyFord Touch allows the driver to interact with vehicle systems such as climate control, radio and CD player through voice commands, an eight-inch colour touch screen, as well as a conventional button.

“With the all-new Mondeo, quality is not just about what you can see, it’s also about what you can touch and feel.” said Marin Burela, president & CEO, Changan Ford Automobile.