New Toyota Verso launched in South Africa

The new Toyota Verso sports a new face and revised interior and has been launched in South Africa with three derivatives (the S-Entry, SX-Mid and TX-High). The new Toyota Verso will include three engines options and two transmissions.

The new Toyota Verso hits the sweet spot

Engine Capability

The new Toyota Verso range comprises of two Valvematic petrol engines, a 1.6 and 1.8 and a 2.0 D-4D diesel engine.

The 1.6 engine produces 97kW and is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox and has a fuel consumption of 6.8-litres/100km.

The 1.8 engine delivers 108kW of power and is available with a choice of six-speed manual or a constantly variable transmission (CVT). Fuel consumption for the manual is rated at 7-litres/100km and 7.1 for the automatic. Acceleration from 0-100km/h is dispatched in 10.4 seconds by the manual and 11.1 seconds by the CVT.

The 2.0 D-4D turbo diesel engine produces 91kW at 3600 rpm and a torque figure 0f 310Nm at 1600 and 2400 rpm and is mated to a six-speed manual transmission. Fuel consumption is rated at 5.5 litres/100km and the car can sprint from 0-100km/h in 10.1 seconds.

Exterior Styling Features

The design of the new Toyota Verso communicates a clear family identity and greater levels of style, dynamism and comfort to the range. It retains the dynamic full length character line which defines the bonnet and cabin from the chassis and rear loadspace in profile.

The attractive new front and rear styling have been designed to reduce the perception of height while placing an emphasis on width and length.

Other new features include the large signature trapezoidal grille, redesigned bumper and modified headlights. Daytime running lights are standard on all the models and come with High Intensity Discharge on the TX model. The large lower grille is edged by integral foglamps with chrome surround detailing. It features a piano black paint finish, twin chrome strips and a full-width, and body-coloured lip spoiler.

The new Toyota Verso profile is further enhanced by smaller and more dynamic foldable door mirrors featuring integrated turn signal lights and a choice of two wheels.

The SX has 16-inch alloy wheels and TX grades have16-inch steel wheels with aero caps for the entry-level S model. The new design improves aerodynamics by 10%.

The new Toyota Verso will be available in a choice of seven exterior colours, including the new Dark Steel Mica.

Interior Styling Features

The inside of the Verso is detailed in satin black paint finish. The glove box is finished in soft materials and the door trim, armrests and steering wheel are clothed in soft leather.

Chromed trim highlights have been applied to the instrumentation, air vents, gear shift bezel and doors. The door handle is finished in a new two-layer paint coating. The presentation of instrumentation and switches has been harmonised through more consistent lighting and font sizing.

Additional new features include drivers metres in back-lit in white and air conditioning dials and window switches illuminated in deep orange. The S and SX models have fabric seats while the TX models have leather covered seats.

The seven-seat Verso offers 32 different seating variations with individual seats in the second and third rows and second-row slide adjustment of 195mm. Load space is measured as 1.5m long and 1.4m wide with the seats folded flat.

New Toyota Verso Price

View the new Toyota Verso

Verso 1.6 S 6-speed manual	R261 900
Verso 1.6 SX 6-speed manual	R284 300
Verso 1.8 TX 6-speed manual	R314 200
Verso 1.8 TX CVT	R326 100
Verso 2.0D TX 6-speed manual	R329 900

The new Toyota Verso will be available with a three year/100,000km warranty and a standard five-year/ 90 000 km service plan. The new models are also supported by the ToyotaCare Roadside Assistance Programme which entitles customers to 24-hour roadside assistance, ensuring ultimate peace-of-mind motoring.

Mercedes-Benz Concept GLA to be shown in Shanghai

It’s official, the Mercedes-Benz Concept GLA premium compact SUV will make its public debut at the Shanghai Motor Show.

“The Mercedes-Benz Concept GLA is a compact SUV that combines its sporting spirit with the all-round qualities of a tough, leisure-time companion.Escape the everyday’ is the message that this car conveys to its driver. It also makes clear the further potential of our compact vehicle architecture, which provides the basis for the A- and B-Class models that led the German market in their respective segments in the first quarter of 2013.”

Mercedes-Benz Concept GLA is one of a kind

The Mercedes-Benz Concept GLA will feature a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine with a power output of 155kW. It will be mated to a 7-speed dual clutch automatic transmission and 4Matic all-wheel-drive.

Exterior Design Features

The Concept GLA is finished in silver Alubeam paint and is styled with a number of distinctive features including the powerful hood, bold radiator grille and the centrally positioned star which merges elegantly into two horizontal bars. The concept rides on 20-inch wheels that come in a distinctive five spoke turbine design. The Concept GLA continually shows off masculine features above the rear axle which is accentuated by the slightly pulled in C-pillar.

Other features include distinctive door mirrors, frameless side windows that emphasize coupe-like characteristics, and new laser light LED technology. The front headlamps are each fitted with a laser-beam projector, while the indicators feature digital chase lighting strips which blink in a progressive wave pattern.

Interior Design Features

The interior is dominated by an exciting contrast of leather and dark galvanised aluminium. The four individual seats and door centre panels are covered in a rich brown natural leather tone. The seat cushions feature central inlay panels in a high quality canvas material and display an embossed pattern that continues the saddle theme. The armrests and centre panels of the door linings are designed as a very clear structural unit, and the dashboard is constructed in several layers.

The air vents in the dashboard are illuminated from behind and have a cool feature that changes colour according to the interior temperature set by the driver. The fibre-optic ambient lighting in the boot visually extends the line drawn by the centre console all the way from the instrument panel through to the rear seats. The model will also feature two HD cameras mounted on the roof rail.

Further details for the Mercedes-Benz Concept GLA will be officially revealed at the Shanghai Motor Show.

Nissan sales summary in South Africa for March 2013

Nissan South Africa had another positive sales month in March 2013 and is currently ranked as the fourth best-selling new car brand in South Africa. Here is a breakdown for Nissan sales which includes critical sales figures as well as sales figures for the Top 5 Nissan models.

Nissan sales summary – March 2013

Total sales: 4 709 units
Total market share: 9.7%
Total passenger vehicle sales: 1 827 units (Segment share: 7.9%)
Total Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) sales: 2 882 units (Segment share: 20.5%)

Top 5 Nissan new car sales March 2013

Model	Sales: March 2013 (Compared to Feb 2013)
1. Nissan NP200	1 829 (1 245)
2. Nissan NP300	775 (699)
3. Nissan Qashqai	518 (450)
4. Nissan Micra	414 (806)
5.Nissan Juke	389 (506)

Top 3 Nissan Used Cars on Cars.co.za – March 2013

Model	Views
1. Nissan Hardbody	7 800
2. Nissan Navara	6 673
3. Nissan X-Trail	5 304
4. Nissan Tiida	5 159
5. Nissan NP200	3 819

Nissan in the News

Nissan and Gibson create NV200 Mobile Repair and Restoration Van

New Nissan Pathfinder models launched in South Africa

Nissan X-Trail DCI reviewed

Citroen Wild Rubis DS shown ahead of Shanghai Motor Show

The unique and stylish Citroen Wild Rubis comes as an addition to the DS line which includes the DS3, DS4 DS5 and the Numero 9 concept car. The Citroen Wild Rubis concept car is the forerunner of the future DS SUV.

Citroen Wild Rubis is a Rebellious SUV

Adventurous Styling

The refined and sophisticated Citroen Wild Rubis combines the powerful lines of an SUV with codes of the DS line. Designed in Paris, the Rubis boasts an exceptional long wheelbase of 2.9m, and is fitted with 21-inch wheels.

The side profile is decorated with a unique chrome signature and is dominated by muscular wheel arches, a deep shadow line and chrome roof bars that run flawlessly into the ruby red bodywork and flow of the profile of the rear wing.

Other significant Rubis features include the three-dimensional relief of the radiator grille decorated with a DS emblem, and unique full-LED headlights complete with three mobile lighting modules. Scrolling indicator lights at the base and a tuning fork-shaped light signature on the edge give the Wild Rubis a bold, hypnotic and unique stare.

Depicting a jewel, the glass of the rear lights is encased in chrome, further enhancing the light signature. Finishing the unique signature look of the Rubis DS is the foot of the sculptural rear tailgate also highlighted in chrome finish, incorporating the twin exhaust pipes.

Further technological innovations and technical specifications will be revealed when the plug-in hybrid Citroen Wild Rubis DS makes its debut at the Shanghai Motor Show later this month.

New Hyundai Veloster launched in South Africa

The new Hyundai Veloster joins the local lineup and comes packed with attractive and innovative features.

New Hyundai Veloster adds excitement to hatch range

Engine Capabilities

The new Hyundai Veloster will be available in a 1.6 4-cylinder Gamma Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engine mated to either a six-speed manual or Hyundais first EcoShift dual-clutch auto. The engine delivers 103kW of power at 6300rpm and a torque figure of 176Nm at 4850rpm.

Fuel consumption is rated at 7.9 litres/100km with CO2 emissions of 163g/km for the manual and 161g/km for the auto.

Exterior and Interior Design Features

The fluidic sculpture sports coupe Veloster is designed with bold and dynamic flowing lines inspired by nature. These also combine to create an innovative form underpinned by strong proportions and a sense of movement and balance.

Additionally, the new Hyundai Veloster is fitted with a McPherson strut front suspension, coil springs, gas shock absorbers and a 24 mm diameter front stabilizer. The sleek 2+1 door configuration has been adapted for right hand drive markets. This feature is both for convenience and safety of passengers.

Inside the Veloster you are met with high tech gadgets and technological features including the impressive audio system which supports radio, USB, iPod, and Bluetooth. The sound system displays it functions on a large LCD screen in the centre console.

The 60:40 folding rear seats offer a flexible luggage compartment. The steering wheel is equipped with controls for the sound system and for setting the cruise control.

Safety Features

The new Hyundai Veloster features the latest active and passive safety technologies including Vehicle Stability Management, Active Yaw Control, Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), an Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), and Electronic Brake Distribution.

The model scored 96% in the Adult Occupant test category and 89% in the Child Occupant category, beating the Euro NCAP test performances of its main competitors. It also comes inclusive with a driver and passenger airbag, curtain airbags and side airbags.

New Hyundai Veloster Price

Hyundai Veloster 1.6 GDI Executive (manual) – R259 900

Hyundai Veloster 1.6 GDI Executive (auto)

R276 900

View the new Hyundai Veloster

The new Hyundai Veloster will be available with a 5 year/150 000 km warranty and roadside assistance as part of the Veloster package, and will be supplemented by a 5 year/90 000 km service plan. Services are done at intervals of 15 000 km.

VW Sales in South Africa for March 2013

VW sales in South Africa revealed strength in March 2013 to claim second place as South Africa’s best-selling new car brand. Volkswagen is the most popular passenger car brand with the Polo Vivo and the Polo being the most popular in the Volkswagen stable. Here is a breakdown of VW sales in South Africa including critical sales figures, Top 5 model sales and the most popular Volkswagen used cars for March 2013.

VW sales in South Africa for March 2013

Total new car sales: 9 337 units
Total market share: 19.3%
Total passenger vehicle sales: 8 561 units (Segment share: 26.9%)
Total Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) sales: 698 units (Segment share: 5.0%)

Top 5 Volkswagen new passenger car sales for March 2013

Model	Sales
1. Volkswagen Polo Vivo	2 846 units
2. Volkswagen Polo	2 355 units
3. Volkswagen Golf	734 units
4. Volkswagen Amarok	632 units
5.Volkswagen Jetta 6	404 units

Top 5 Volkswagen Used Cars on Cars.co.za for March 2013

Model	Views
1. Volkswagen Polo	68 784
2. Volkswagen Golf	50 434
3. Volkswagen Polo Vivo	26 901
4. Volkswagen Citi	21 691
5. Volkswagen Jetta	13 760

Volkswagen in the news

Volkswagen eCo Motion concept joins Geneva lineup

New Volkswagen Golf Variant wagon shown

Volkswagen Golf 7 GTD shown

Volkswagen Golf 7 blitzes into Geneva

New Golf 7 Voted 2013 European Car of the Year

Volkswagen Amarok gets engine upgrade

Volkswagen all electric e up revealed

Shanghai Auto Show to reveal three new Ford models

Ford will present a 23 vehicle line-up at the Shanghai Auto Show, including all-new models for the Mondeo, the Fiesta ST and the Focus CTCC (Chinese Touring Car Championship) race car. The launch of the new Fiesta ST is an addition to Fords performance car segment.

Great Interactive Technologies at Shanghai Auto Show

Fords display at the Shanghai Auto Show will feature smart, green and safe technology displays such as the Boostical display which will allow visitors to generate their own music videos to communicate the power and efficiency of EcoBoost engines. Ford will also display its voice-activated SYNC with MyFord Touch Mandarin system, the inflatable rear safety belt, and the EcoBoost engine family, including the 1.0-liter EcoBoost unit.

We are excited to have visitors at Auto Shanghai 2013 come to the Ford display and see for themselves the great products and technologies we are bringing to our customers in China, said Dave Schoch, president of Ford Asia Pacific.

With the stunning all-new Mondeo and the new Fiesta ST, were fulfilling our promise to bring more exciting vehicles to our customers as we remain on track to introduce 15 new models in China by 2015, Schoch added.

The 2013 Shanghai Auto Show takes place from April 21-29, 2013 at the Shanghai International Exhibition Centre.

New Mercedes-Benz A-Class launched in South Africa

The Mercedes Benz A-Class has been a bestseller for a number of generations since its market launch in 1997 and continues to do so even now. With the launch of its latest model; the new Mercedes-Benz A-Class will feature three different variants – Urban, Style and AMG Sport, opening up a new chapter in the compact segment.

New Mercedes Benz A-Class is a superb offering

Engine Capabilities

All engines of the new A-Class feature the ECO start/stop function as standard. They can be combined with the new six-speed manual transmission or optionally with the 7G-DCT (Dual Clutch automatic Transmission).

The petrol range includes the following models: the A-180 and A-200 which sport a new direct injection 1.6-litre engine. The A-180 which is the very first Mercedes-Benz to emit 105g/km of C02 and delivers 90kW and 200Nm torque. The A-200 produces 115kW of power and a torque figure of 250Nm and consumes only 5.4 litres/100 km with CO2 emissions of 127g/km. The new A-250 Sport model is fitted with a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine producing 155kW and a maximum torque figure of 350Nm, with an efficient fuel consumption of 6.1-litres and CO2 emissions of 148 g/km.

Diesel engines include the A-180 CDI delivering 80kW of power, a torque figure of 260Nm and a fuel consumption of 3.8 l/100km. The A-220 CDI develops 125kW and 350Nm of torque and consumes only 4.3 litres/100 km.

Exterior Styling Features

Described as a two box design, the new Mercedes-Benz A-Class has a distinct character of its own, a sportily emotive exterior and an exceptionally high-quality feel to the interior.

Some exterior features of the long, sporty front are its distinct V-shape, the separate headlamps, the radiator grille with central Mercedes star and double slats to either side of the star, as well as the additional air intakes on the sides.

The rear axle emphasises the car’s coupe-like character with lines that sweep up from the front of the rear wheel arch then gently fade away.

Adding elegance to the exterior are the light modules and LEDs behind the headlamp cover glass. They have been arranged so as to create the characteristic “flare effect” for the daytime driving lights and indicators.

Interior Styling Features

Interior features of the urban A-Class comprise of an instrument panel with vents and an aircraft turbine insert finished in electroplated silver chrome. The free-standing screen features a black piano lacquer-look front panel and a flush fitting silver frame.

The three-spoke steering wheel comes with 12 function buttons and an electroplated bezel, while the instrument panel comprises of two large round instruments each with a small dial set within it.

Additionally the A-Class is fitted with sports seats with optional integrated head restraints and an extensive range of seat coverings including ARTICO fabric. The back of the front seats features an opening edge with a frame in silver chrome and an optional ambient lighting feature. Further sporty details include designo seat belts in red or a silver instrument cluster with red dial pointers.

Safety Features

The new Mercedes-Benz A-Class is equipped with an array of safety features including the Adaptive High-beam Assist system, Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist, Active Parking Assist with parking guidance, Brake hold function and a Reversing camera function. Intelligent restraint systems include up to nine airbags with the window-bags extending over both rows of seats to the A-pillar triangle.

“Mercedes-Benz is becoming the most dynamic premium brand in the world. As part of this development, the A-Class represents an important milestone. The A-Class is completely new, right down to the last detail. Its not often you get the chance to start with a clean sheet of paper in automotive development. Our designers and engineers have made the very most of that opportunity”, said Dr Martin Zimmermann, President and CEO, Mercedes-Benz South Africa.

New Mercedes-Benz A-Class Price

View the new Mercedes-Benz A-Class

A-180 BlueEfficiency	R275 000
A-200 BlueEfficiency	R298 000
A-180 CDI BlueEfficiency AT	R310 000
A-180 CDI BlueEfficiency	R300 000
A-220 CDI BlueEfficiency	R355 000
A-250 Sport	R395 000

Toyota sales summary for March 2013

Despite the fact that overall new vehicle sales in South Africa have slowed by 2.1% when compared to March 2012, Toyota sales remain strong. Toyota was the best-selling automotive brand in South Africa for March 2013. Here is the Toyota sales summary including critical sales figures, Top 5 model sales and the most popular Toyota used cars for March 2013.

Toyota sales summary March 2013

Total new car sales: 10 593 units
Total market share: 21.9%
Total passenger vehicle sales: 5 143 units (Segment share: 16.1%)
Total Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) sales: 5 007 (Segment share: 35.6%)

Top 5 Toyota new passenger car sales March 2013

Model	Sales
1. Toyota Corolla/Auris	2 067 units
2. Toyota Fortuner	1 072 units
3. Toyota Yaris	820 units
4. Toyota Aygo	416 units
5. Toyota Avanza	384 units

Toyota used car sales

Top 5 Toyota Used Cars on Cars.co.za March 2013

Model	Views
1. Toyota Corolla	31 938
2. Toyota Hilux	25 267
3. Toyota Yaris	15 968
4. Toyota Fortuner	9 188
5. Toyota RunX	9 116

Toyota in the news

Toyota 86 goes topless in Geneva

Toyota i-Road personal mobility concept debuts in Geneva

The Toyota Auris reviewed

The new Toyota Auris launched in South Africa

The 2013 Toyota RAV4 arrives in South Africa

Suzuki Jimny Review in South Africa

The Suzuki Jimny has been around for what feels like an eternity. However, theres an all-new version which may look similar, but boasts a number of upgrades.

Suzuki Jimny Review by David Taylor

Sharper looks

Visually, there doesnt seem to be much change. The Suzuki Jimny is still this tiny two-door off-roader thats filled with character and makes motor hacks use words like plucky and charming. Lets start with whats new in the looks department. The Jimny gains a little bonnet scoop, a refreshed front grille and the fog lamp positioning has changed. Its meant to give the Jimny a more aggressive, modern look and it works. Im not sure why a bonnet scoop has been fitted, as theres no high-performance engine that requires extra cooling, but its a cute touch nevertheless.

The Jimny’s engine is small but powerful enough

The Suzuki Jimny is powered by a 1.3-litre four cylinder engine with 63kW and 110Nm, and to be honest I was worried there wasnt going to be enough grunt to get around. Thanks to its dinky toy size, the Jimny actually does tootle around town rather nicely. Dont expect anything special in terms of outright performance though, its not aimed at the speedsters.

Not a car for the highway

My primary concern arose when I took it on the highway. While the car is fine in terms of driving on urban roads, highways are its nemesis. Top speed is rated at 140km/h and doing over 100km/h in the Jimny is a little disconcerting. With gusting Cape winds buffeting the Suzuki Jimny from the side, the car feels like it could tip over. Put it down to me being paranoid, but if you need to travel on the highway, I wouldnt try go past the national speed limit.

Offroading is the Jimnys party trick

Take the Suzuki Jimny off the city highway and suddenly it redeems itself beautifully. The soft suspension is perfect for tackling even the toughest of terrain and itll take a lot to get the vehicle stuck. The car has a low-range gearbox, a lockable diff and exceptional ground clearance which coupled with a smart design, means youre looking at a brilliant offroad vehicle.

Superb ability regardless of terrain

Thanks to a good friend who owns a dairy farm, the Suzuki Jimny was put to the test and despite my best efforts to try find an offroad weakness, it simply refused to give up. Maybe an ultra-steep decent down a loose gravel road would unseat it? Nope, put the gearbox in first and let it crawl down like an army commando. No surprise the Suzuki Jimny can be found serving in some armed forces around the world.

Basic interior

Inside the Suzuki Jimny the interior is rather simple and basic. No fancy gadgets here, this is all about comfort and practicality. The seats have been redesigned and now have new fabric, while ISOFIX anchor points for baby seats have been added. You get air conditioning, CD player, air con and electric windows. Its basic, but what more do you want? Satnav? Go get an aftermarket one and connect it to the cigarette lighter then.

Suzuki Jimny – Conclusion

Think of the Suzuki Jimny as a Labrador puppy. Its fine around the house, but when you take it for a walk in a big park and unclip the leash, thats when its happiest. Itll go charging through streams and up embankments in the most enthusiastic of manners, and when its time to go home, it settles down and becomes docile.

I do like the Suzuki Jimny. In a world filled with generic boxes which are devoid of emotional appeal, the Jimny is something totally different and unique. In the city its extremely easy to parallel park and drive through narrow streets, and weve seen how formidable it becomes when you turn off the tarred roads. Just dont try get anywhere in a hurry.

Suzuki Jimny – Price

Suzuki Jimny 1.3: R201 900

Why you should: Cute looks, simple character, surprisingly spacious cabin, unbeatable offroad ability.
Why you shouldnt: Doesnt feel like its designed to go faster than 120km/h
It would be better if: For a future model, perhaps put in an aux or USB input on the radio.
View the Suzuki Jimny: New / Used
Competitors worth checking out: Daihatsu Terios