Bugatti Veyron sets another speed record

The Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse has officially been named the fastest roadster in the world.

Fastest production roadster in the world

The 16.4 Bugatti Grand Sport Vitesse set its world speed record for open top production sports cars at the Volkswagen Group’s proving grounds in Ehra-Lessien. Driven by Chinese racing driver Anthony Liu, a top speed of 408.84 km/h was officially confirmed by the renowned independent German organisation for Technical Inspection and Certification TUV.

“When we introduced the Vitesse, we established the top speed for open-top driving to be 375 km/h. Still, we could not let go of the idea of reaching the 400 km/h mark with this car as well. The fact that we have succeeded in reaching 408.84 km/h is a thrill for me, and it reaffirms once again that Bugatti is the leader when it comes to technology in the international automotive industry”, said Dr. Wolfgang Schreiber, President of Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S.

This top speed is an addition to Bugatti’s titles of being the words fastest car. In 2010, the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Super Sport achieved an impressive top speed of 431.072 km/h also confirmed by TUV.

Powerful and high performance handling

The open top model is powered by an 8-litre W16 engine, with a torque figure of 1500 Nm and 3000 to 5000 rpm to the road. Other features that enabled such spectacular performance include a standard carbon monocoque with high torsional rigidity and an outer shell made entirely of carbon fibre. The interior was designed to keep wind noise and air turbulence to a minimum.

The Vitesse also sports a specially developed roof spoiler along with an intricately designed windbreak which guarantees calm open-top driving. It also received a powerful dual-colour scheme in black and orange, perfectly translating its inner qualities into its exterior appearance. This special Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse will be available in a World Record Car (WRC) Edition, which is limited to eight vehicles.

The World Record Car will be unveiled to the world for the first time at the Shanghai Motor Show later this month.

Used Car Analysis for March 2013

Statistics derived from Cars.co.za provide valuable insight into the interests of the South African public towards particular used car brands and used car models. In March 2013 a total of 1 218 372 vehicle views were made on Cars.co.za. Here is a breakdown of the most popular used cars in South Africa for March 2013 as well as the most popular used car brands.

Top 10 most popular used cars in South Africa for March 2013

Model Total views Used Car Market Penetration
1. BMW 3-Series 75 227 6.0%
2. Volkswagen Polo 68 784 5.0%
3. Volkswagen Golf 50 434 4.0%
4. Mercedes-Benz C-Class 40 729 3.0%
5. Audi A4 34 534 2.0%
6. Toyota Corolla 31 938 2.0%
7. Volkswagen Polo Vivo 26 901 2.0%
8. Audi A3 25 870 2.0%
9. Toyota Hilux 25 267 2.0%
10. BMW 1 Series 22 240 1.0%

The BMW 3-Series is South Africa’s most sought after used car with a market penetration percentage of 6%. The BMW 3-Series was the brand’s best selling new vehicle in 2012 and remains a popular choice for BMW customers. The Volkswagen Polo is in second place with a market penetration percentage of 5% but with marginally less views for the month. The VW Polo is also ranked second as South Africa’s most popular new car for March 2013 and was rated as the best-selling new car in 2012.

The VW Polo Vivo, which is South Africa’s best-selling new passenger car for March 2013, is in 7th place in the used car market with a market penetration percentage of 2%. Interestingly, South Africa’s best-selling bakkie, the Toyota Hilux, is placed ninth in the used car market with a market penetration percentage of 2%.

Top 5 most popular used car brands in South Africa for March 2013

Brand Total Views Used Car Market Penetration New Car Market Penetration*
1. VW 214 744 17.00% 19.30%
2. BMW 146 666 12.00% 5.80%
3. Toyota 134 836 11.00% 21.90%
4. Audi 92 692 7.00% 19.3%(VW)
5. Mercedes-Benz 75 842 6.00% 5.80%

* According to official NAAMSA sales figures for February 2013.

According to Cars.co.za, Volkswagen, South Africa’s most popular passenger car brand, is considered to be the most popular used car brand for March with a used car market penetration percentage of 17%. In the new car market Volkswagen is ranked second with a market share of 19.3% behind Toyota in first place with 21.9% market share for March 2013. Interestingly, BMW is ranked second as the most sought after used car brand in the used car market with a penetration percentage of 12% while in the new car market it only accounts for 5.8% of new car sales. Mercedes-Benz has an equal penetration in the used car market and in the new car market.

Cars.co.za will continue to collate used car statistics throughout the duration of 2013 with the emphasis of expanding existing knowledge of the used car market in South Africa.

Renault TwinZ Concept revealed

Renault is set to release the third generation Twingo as a production version of the all-electric Renault TwinZ Concept, which was a collaborative project between Renault and designer Ross Lovegrove.

Renault TwinZ Concept shows electric potential

Engine Capability

The Renault TwinZ Concept is fitted with a rear mounted synchronous electric motor delivering 50kW of power and 226Nm of torque. It is also equipped with four 96-V lithium batteries hidden beneath the floor. With a weight of 980kg, the Twinz can achieve a top speed of 130km/h.

Exterior Design Features

The striking blue livery of the Renault TwinZ Concept is a tribute to 20th century painter Yves Klein. The satin finish gives a pure skin to the body which appears to be coated, almost anodised, rather than painted, suggesting that the pigmentation is inside the body and not applied.

“Renault Design must remain attentive and open-minded at all times. We need to be attentive to new trends in order to stay ahead of the game, while an open-mind that embraces all sectors of activity is necessary to inspire innovation. There are numerous bridges between the work of Ross Lovegrove – which combines beauty and intelligence thanks to an approach inspired by the living, natural world – and the strategy, we have been working on for three years now at Renault, producing designs that are sensuous, based on simple emotions and close to the public.” said Laurens van den Acker, Concept Car Design Director

Continuing with the poetic and colourful theme, the grille is designed in that it creates a vortex effect which channels air flow and minimises turbulence to optimise Twin’Z’s aerodynamic performance. This is also incorporated into the rear bumper as an echo of the lighting signature.

The daytime running lights form a structure of strips resembling an iris and continue to give the TwinZ a near-humanlike stare. A sequence of LEDs extends from the grille to the rear bumper via the glass roof which is designed in layers and incorporates an array of LEDs that form animated patterns.

Additional features include hinged front and rear electric doors, a central pillar revealing the entire cabin and frees up space to facilitate ingress. The Ross Lovegrove designed 18-inch aluminium alloy wheels and specifically Michelin developed tyres have been designed as a single entity and feature a glowing green finish. The solid central core splits into slender branches which strike out towards the rim.

Interior Design Features

Inside the spacious Renault TwinZ Concept are four lightweight seats with green frames that appear to grow from the floor. They have been upholstered in a 3D woven, self-cushioning, lightweight blue textile which is both waterproof and flame-resistant.

The model doesn’t feature a dashboard however it is fitted with a single tablet with a touchscreen display mounted on a centrally-positioned post. This tablet handles vehicle’s systems such as the heater, seat adjustment, lights activation, control of the roof, GPS guidance system and in-car connectivity.

“From the start, the intention was to build on the heritage of luxury and grace associated with France and to express it in a modern way, while at the same time creating a link between Renault’s past, present and future.” said Ross Lovegrove

VW Beetle 1.4T Sport Review

Better in every respect than the last VW Beetle, but more niched than ever. Ironically. Don’t let the “Sport” fool you.

VW Beetle 1.4T Sport review by John Beale

Let’s be honest, the last Beetle wasn’t exactly the best work VW has done. A bit a miss in terms of pricing, target market and terrible to drive. You see very few of them on the roads today, and they sure as hell were not the ‘people’s car’ of yore. The New Beetle wants to be radically different. Even the tagline, ‘Less Flower, more Power’ embodies VW’s positioning for the Beetle of shedding the female, frivolous nature of the last incarnation, and brings a more focused package, but is it?

Interior and exterior

Lower, longer and built on the Golf 6 platform, the New Beetle is different in looks whilst still being … Beetle. The round lights, bubble bonnet (Albeit longer) and now with tail fin, are still unmistakably Beetle. The interior has been totally redesigned, sharing parts from the group (Sound system, steering wheel, climate control), but design cues immediately remind you of the original Beetle. In the right colour, with the right rims, a guy can now drive the new Beetle Sport without having to hide behind the vase on the dash. Flat facia against the passenger with glovebox, instrument binnacle with large speedometer and flanking gauges are unique and give the Beetle great character. Also they removed that stupid flower holder from the interior. Good riddance!

Red sports leather seating was supportive, but don’t expect the rear seats to be anything else but space to throw your paraphernalia, Unless you recently started pre-school, you’re not going to fit back there. Thankfully the shallow boot (no engine in the back) is actually big enough to take larger pieces of luggage. Some options fitted to the unit were the panoramic sunroof, keyless entry and technology, navigation and media interface, but for some obscure reason I couldn’t connect my phone via Bluetooth.

The Beetle’s engine and Drive

The 1.4T engine pushes out 118kW and 240NM, and is the same unit used in the rest of the VW group, to huge success. It’s an incredible little engine and does the Beetle justice moving it along at speed, as well as returns great economy when you drive with that mind. (claimed 6.6litres/100km) It’s no firecracker off the line, 0-100km takes 8.3seconds, but it feels a lot quicker (Sport in looks, but definitely not in performance). The gearbox shifts in typical notchy VW fashion, but it’s solid. Clutch action is also typical VW, which takes some time to get used to. The only problem with the little engine is that it can run out of steam through the rev band pretty quickly, leaving you without go, but mid range punch is commendable.

Again, the ride is firm (also thanks to 18inch Twister alloys), but doesn’t offer the dynamic ability when really pushing on. The tail starts to dance a little over undulating surfaces and can get the whole car out of sorts. Definitely not as planted as brother Golf. Steering is electronic, but does a good job of being both light and giving good feedback. Brakes are sharp and assisted with all the usual ABS and EBD, as well as standard Electronic Stability Program and Hill Hold Assist (which keeps you from rolling back on incline).

VW Beetle Conclusion

You either want the ‘21st Century Beetle, or you don’t. It’s going to speak to the individual who wants to make a statement, even in Sport guise, it’s more about the aesthetics than the dynamics, and spec it out that way can get pricey, when compared to the similar Mini Cooper S which does the same job, but is more dynamically capable.

There is little to fault … this time around. VW are definitely focusing on both the male and female market, albeit the singles without families. The new Beetle gives you more in terms of driver reward, better engines and unique interior. It’s different, eye catching and will make a solid every day drive, but is now so focused it definitely isn’t the people’s car it used to be.VW 

  • View the VW Beetle : New / Used
  • Competitors worth checking out: Mini Cooper S – 135kW/240NM – 295 868 (Sans options)

VW Beetle Price

VW Beetle Sport 1.4T Manual – 118kW/240NM – R317 000 (R350 650 as tested)

Most popular new car brands in South Africa for March 2013

A total of 54 946 new vehicles were sold in March 2013 according to the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (NAAMSA) which represents a 2.1% decline in sales when compared to March 2012. Here is a breakdown of the best selling new car brands for March as well as each brand’s top 5 selling vehicles.

Car Brand Volume Market Share
1. Toyota 10 593 21.90%
2. Volkswagen 9 337 19.30%
3. Ford 5 001 10.30%

South Africa’s Top 3 selling new car brands – March 2013

1. Toyota – 10 593 units

Toyota is South Africa’s best-selling car brand for March 2013 with a total market share of 21.9%. Toyota sold well in both the passenger vehicle segment (5 143 units) and in the Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) segment (5 007 units). The best-selling vehicles in the Toyota stable include the ever-popular Hilux bakkie which managed to sell 3 189 units, while the Toyota Corolla/Auris proved to be a popular choice in the passenger car segment with 2 067 units sold.

Toyota Top 5 best-selling new cars – March 2013

Model March Sales (compared to February 2013)
1. Toyota Hilux 3 189 (3 500)
2. Toyota Corolla 2 067 (1 298)
3. Toyota Fortuner 1 072 (996)
4. Toyota Quantum 1 038 (1 030)
5. Toyota Yaris 820 (753)

2. Volkswagen – 9 100 units

Volkswagen posted healthy sales figures in March 2013 and claims second place in the new vehicle sales rankings. Volkswagen dominated sales in the passenger vehicle segment with sales totalling 8 561 units, making it the most popular brand in this segment. The best-selling Volkswagen vehicles for February were the Polo Vivo and the Polo, which remain popular choices amongst new car buyers.

Volkswagen Top 5 best-selling new cars – March 2013

Model March Sales (compared to February 2013)
1. VW Polo Vivo 2 651 (2 742)
2. VW Polo 2 470 (2 192)
3. VW Golf 7 626 (767)
4. Audi A4 495 (371)
5. VW Jetta 6 404 (391)

3. Ford – 5001 units

Ford was the third best-selling new car brand in South Africa for March 2013 and sold well in both the passenger vehicle segment (2 833 units) and in the Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) segment (2 168) with a total market share of 10.3%.

Ford Top 5 best-selling new cars – March 2013

Model March Sales (compared to February 2013)
1. Ford Ranger 1 753 (1 784)
2. Ford Figo 1 313 (982)
3. Ford Fiesta 344 (573)
4. Ford Kuga 286 (-)
5. Ford Focus 256 (596)

Renault Clio 4 launched in South Africa

The Renault Clio 4 is now available in South Africa and is set to make waves in the popular B-segment. The Clio, Now in its fourth generation, has sold around 12-million units since the first version was shown off at the Paris Motor Show back in 1990.

Renault Clio 4 part of successful history

On the back of some strong accolades such as ’91 European Car of the Year, ’06 European Car of the Year for Clio 3 and Clio 2 taking the South African Car of the Year award in 2000, comes the all-new Renault Clio 4. It’s already racking up awards globally and I’m confident it’ll crack a nod for some silverware on South African shores.

“The all-new Renault Clio 4 is in a class of its own,” says Fabien Payzan, Vice-President of Marketing at Renault South Africa. “Its seductive styling, all-new engine, smart and useful on-board technologies and much more, will position it streets ahead of its peers in the small car segment. We are anticipating a stampede by Clio aficionados, many of whom have delayed their new buying decisions until they have had sight of the much-awaited New Clio,” he adds. That sounds like fighting talk, but does the new Renault Clio 4 deliver?

Exterior styling

In terms of looks, the Renault Clio 4 is as sporty as ever, with a coupé shape – thanks primarily to the rear door handles being concealed. The car sits lower to the ground, while more dominant shoulder lines make the Clio look a lot more aggressive. The main changes are the introduction of LED daytime running lights which are standard across the range and a dominant Renault diamond logo on the front bumper. In the boring B-segment, the Renault Clio 4 is easily one of the more attractive cars.

Engine capability

There was only one engine available to sample on launch and seeing as it’s an engineering masterpiece, it has to be mentioned. It’s one of the smallest engines on sale and is a 0.9L 3-cylinder with 66kW and 135Nm. You may laugh at the size, but it’s more than able to match a normally-aspirated 1.4L 4-cylinder found in many of its rivals thanks to Formula One-derived technologies. The main strength of this engine is brilliant fuel consumption and Renault claims a figure of 4.5L/100km. On the launch route I found the engine to be willing and when pushed, delivered a lot of grunt right from the bottom of the rev range.

Standard features

The new Renault Clio 4 is well appointed and comes standard with the following features:

  • Cruise control with speed limiter
  • Bluetooth connectivity for audio streaming
  • Hands-free telephone
  • USB connectivity
  • Onboard trip computer
  • The new Bass Reflex sound system
  • One touch indicators
  • Renault keycard
  • Hill Start Assist

There are three versions available. The entry-level model has a 1.2-litre with 55kW, which wasn’t available to drive, while the 0.9L-litre engine comes in two trim levels – Authentique and Dynamique. Both of the 66kW 0.9L Clios comes standard with an integrated satellite navigation and media centre. It’s a touchscreen device which doesn’t take long to get the hang of and the seven-inch colour display is clear.

Safety features

Being a Renault, safety is a priority and the new Renault Clio 4 is well-equipped in this department. It features ABS brakes with Emergency Brake Assist (EBA). There’s ESP which will bring the car under control in a skid as well as Hill Start Assist. There are also four airbags. These safety features all combined to give the Clio 4 a five star rating and a score of 85% on the Euro Ncap crash test.

New Renault Clio 4 – Conclusion

Is it any good? Well, from the initial drive I can say there are no major faults to report. A comprehensive test will follow in future and I’ll be on the lookout for any problems. The best part of the new Clio 4 is Renault South Africa’s pricing strategy.

New Renault Clio 4 variants come standard with a 5-year/150 000km mechanical warranty, a 3-year/45 000km service plan and a 6-year anti-corrosion warranty.

Renault Clio 4 – Price

Renault Clio 4 – 55kW Authentique 5-door R149 900
Renault Clio 4 – 66kW Turbo Expression 5-door R169 900
Renault Clio 4 – 66kW Turbo Dynamique 5-door R179 900

Options

Manual air-conditioning R10 000 (Authentique)
Fixed glass roof R 8 000 (Expression& Dynamique)
Climate control R 5 000 (Dynamique)
Rear park assist R 2 000 (Dynamique)
Metallic paint R 2 500 (Range)

South African new car sales for March 2013

According to the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (NAAMSA), overall new car and commercial sales for the month of March had been in line with expectations, reflecting modest declines compared to March last year. Here is a summary of new vehicle sales in South Africa for the month of March 2013.

South African new car sales summary – March 2013

  • Total new vehicle sales: 54 946 units, down 2.1% compared to March 2012
  • Total export sales: 28 338 units, up 18.2% or 4 370 units compared to March 2012
  • New car market sales totalled 37 596 units, down 3.6% compared to March 2012
  • Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) sales totalled 14 794 units, up 1.3% compared to March 2012

According to NAAMSA the short term outlook for the automotive sector would be affected by increasing new vehicle pricing pressure as a result of the weaker exchange rate and the the increase of CO2 vehicle emissions taxes. The result would be moderation in the rate of growth in sales during the remainder of 2013.

However, a low interest rate environment, strong replacement demand, a highly competitive trading environment, low debt servicing costs and high tech model introductions will continue to support sales. It must be remembered though that rising inflationary pressures will dampen growth in consumers’ real disposable income. Exports will however see substantial gains throughout 2013.

South Africa’s best selling car brands – March 2013

Car Brand Volume
1. Toyota 10 593
2. Volkswagen 9 337
3. Ford Motor Company 5 001
4. Nissan 4 709
5. GMSA 4 553

Ford ranked as best selling nameplate worldwide

Polk global market registration data officially confirmed that the Ford Focus was the world’s best selling passenger car in 2012, with the Ford F-series bakkie taking third place and Ford Fiesta coming in as the best selling subcompact.

Astounding record sales for Ford

According to the automotive data and trends forecasting leader, sales of the compact Focus totalled 1,020, 410 cars worldwide. This caused market gains for the Focus which was driven by consumer demands in China and United States. In China, registrations were up by 51% last year, while in United States sales were up by 40%.

“Focus and Fiesta represent the culmination of our One Ford global product strategy,” said Jim Farley, Ford executive vice president.

He added “Our global products are resonating with consumers – especially in the best-selling, most competitive segments – with their unique combination of fuel efficiency, high quality, rich content and fun-to-drive personalities. Through One Ford, we’re able to bring economies of scale and fantastic value to customers all around the world.”

In addition to its title of ‘World’s Best-Selling Vehicle’, Polk data also confirmed that with 723 130 registrations last year, the Ford Fiesta is the best-selling subcompact car globally. Together, registrations of Ford’s small cars – Fiesta and Focus – totaled 1,743,540 vehicles in 2012.

Farley concluded “Since its launch in China in late March of last year, Focus sales continue to strengthen, with the car now ranking as the best-selling passenger car in China in 2012 for the first time ever,”

“With additional manufacturing capacity added last year, we now have a tremendous opportunity to further strengthen our global small car sales in 2013, with sales off to a very strong start already.”

Most popular new cars in South Africa for March 2013

According to the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (NAAMSA) vehicle sales in March 2013 have slowed by 2.1% compared to the same month last year. A total of 54 946 new vehicles were sold in South Africa in March 2013. Here are the most popular new cars in South Africa for March 2013.

Most popular new cars in South Africa

1. Toyota Hilux – 3 189 units

South Africa’s most popular bakkie, the Toyota Hilux, has once again topped sales in March with 3 189 units sold. The Toyota Hilux is available in three body styles including the Single Cab, Xtra Cab and Double Cab. A wide variety of engine options are available and prices range from R186 700 to R475 900, depending on the model.

2. Volkswagen Polo Vivo – 2 846 units

The Polo Vivo is the best selling new car in the passenger car segment. The Polo Vivo was South Africa’s most popular new car in 2012 and will most likely continue to sell well in 2013. The Polo Vivo is offered either as a hatchback or sedan with a variety of engine options available, ranging from between 55kW and 77kW. Depending on the model, prices range from R111 900 for the 1.4-litre 2-door hatchback and R158 500 for the 1.6 Trendline sedan.

3. Volkswagen Polo – 2 355 units

The VW Polo had another good sales month in March and is still considered to be one of South Africa’s best selling passenger cars. Like the Polo Vivo, The Polo is also offered as either a hatchback or sedan with prices starting from R162 100 for the 1.4-litre Trendline while the Polo 1.6 Comfortline is priced at R231 300.

4. Toyota Corolla – 2 067 units

Toyota’s ever popular Corolla sold well in March and makes it into the top 5 best selling cars for the month. The Corolla is available in five trim levels with prices starting at R187 900 for the 1.3-litre Impact derivative, while the range-topping 2.0-litre Exclusive D-4D is priced at R296 900.

5. Nissan NP200 – 1 829 units

Nissan’s NP200 bakkie sold well last month and makes the top five best selling vehicles for March. The Nissan NP200 is an affordable and reliable bakkie that is available in three trim levels namely Base, Mid and High. The 1.6-litre Base version is priced at R123 800 while the 1.6-litre High model retails for R175 800.

New Maserati Ghibli to debut at Shanghai Motor Show

The new Maserati Ghibli is set to debut at the Shanghai Motor Show later this month.

Big future for new Maserati Ghibli

The new Maserati Ghibli will be available with two turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engines mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Ghibli is also the first Maserati production car in history to be powered by a 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel engine. It will also feature both the rear-wheel drive and the new ‘Q4’ all-wheel drive system.

The Ghibli will play a significant role in Maserati’s growth plan to sell 50 000 cars per year.

More details on the new Maserati Ghibli will be revealed at the Shanghai Motor Show which takes place between on 21-29 April 2013.