2013 Old School Inspired Ken Block Ford Fiesta ST RX43
Ken Block, whose name is synonymous with Gymkhana, was taken out in the quarterfinals of the X Games Gymkhana GRID event in his all-new M-Sport built 2013 Ford Fiesta ST RX43. Although this slightly puts him off his goal to win gold at all four of this years Global X Games, hes still got the chance to go for the overall championship win at this year’s Global RallyCross.
80s inspired livery
The all-new M-Sport built 2013 Ford Fiesta ST RX43 has been built completely fresh from the ground up, using a standard Fiesta bodyshell. Its livery is said to draw inspiration from Ken Blocks love of 80s and early 90s skateboarding graphics, as well as Miami Vice-era offshore powerboats and a dash of hair metal and old school hip hop mixed in for good measure.” The car also has a colorful exterior with blue wheels, an American flag roof scoop and plenty of sponsor logos.
No information has been released about exactly what is under the hood of the Ken Block Ford Fiesta RX43. However, after driving the car for the first time, Block said: I’m absolutely stoked on how this car has turned out. My Ford Fiesta HFHV last year was awesome, but the RX43 is really on a whole new level. Malcolm and the team at M-Sport took all of our input and made some radical improvements.
View Ken Block in action with the Fietsa ST RX43 at the Tokyo Experience
Ken Block Ford Fiesta ST RX43 gallery
Toyota Auris 1.6XR Review
Japanese car giant Toyota has taken a battering over the years from its Korean rivals in the B-segment and in order to stem the bleeding, has launched a flurry of new models to try keep up with the times. One such model is the Auris.
On test is the all-new Toyota Auris in 1.6XR guise. Ive always thought of Toyotas to be staid and conservative, so you can imagine my surprise when this pointy orange hatch was delivered to me. Its quite a looker and considerably more mature than its rather bland predecessor.
All-new Toyota styling
The front end has received a big revision and the result is quite angled. This front you will see across the Toyota range in models like the Verso, Rav4 and forthcoming Corolla. The few curves can be found at the rear and from certain angles, it does look like Toyota borrowed some style from the Hyundai i30. Overall the new Auris is a modern-looking and fresh vehicle, something which Toyota has desperately needed over the last few years.
Sportier, fresher Auris
So it looks a lot better, but how does the new Auris drive? The answer can be summed up by one word: good. It has a bit of a sporty edge which is great if youre a spirited driver, but I found the firm suspension a bit of an annoyance on rough tarmac. It softens up nicely when youre on the open road. This is an out-and-out commuter car and Im putting the firm ride down to the 16-inch alloy wheels.
Toyotas bullet-proof engine
Theres a tidy 1.6-litre engine powering the Auris and while the on-paper specs look promising, performance is a little underwhelming. The motor pushes out 97kW and 170Nm, but in reality it feels quite conservative. Theres enough grunt to get around, but youll notice the car will require you change down a gear when youre climbing a steep hill. Im blaming the weight and gearing of the vehicle for this. The plus side of an engine like this is its rather thrifty. Despite having a busy schedule and rushing everywhere in the weeks test period, the Auris averaged a commendable 7.6L/100km.
Your R250k gets you quite a bit of interior tech too. I was thankful for the reverse camera and heated seats which come fitted as standard. Theres also cruise control, keyless entry and start, Bluetooth audio, USB port, touchscreen infotainment system and leather seats. You are also well-catered for when it comes to safety. Seven airbags, ABS, EBD will keep you safe, but interestingly theres no stability control. You would think a vehicle costing this much would feature some form of traction control, but its not a major flaw.
The Auris cabin is comfortable and not cramped, with the boot offering a wholesome 350-litres worth of space.
Toyota Auris 1.6XR price in South Africa
In South Africa the Toyota Auris 1.6XR goes for R257 000.
Toyota Auris 1.6XR review conclusion
The Auris is a vast improvement over its predecessor and proof that Toyota is well-aware of the threats from younger, more dynamic opposition like Kia and Hyundai. Heres a car which can do the commute and be pleasant to drive. Its nice to look at, offers decent specification, is cheap to run and offers great value for money. Best of all is its a Toyota meaning when its time to sell, you wont be slapped in the face.
Why you should: Good looks, Toyota resale and servicing, excellent package, cheap to run.
Why you shouldnt: The Hyundai/Kia warranties and the Volkswagen Golf 7 are rather enticing.
It would be better if: there was traction control, engine had a bit more poke.
Competitors worth checking out: Volkswagen Golf 7, Honda Civic, Ford Focus, Hyundai i30, Renault Megane.
Toyota Auris 1.6XR gallery
Subaru Outback 2.5i Review
Imagine you could combine the ability of a 4×4 with the practicality of an estate vehicle, while retaining the driving simplicity of a small passenger vehicle. A vehicle which truly ticks all the boxes is quite a rare find, and I reckon Subaru could have pulled off the unthinkable.
The Outback has been around for many years and Subaru is always tweaking its range in terms of specification level to ensure its customers get better value for money. 2013 sees the Outback receive a mild facelift, and thats what Ive been driving.
Outback practicality and off-road ability
As far as dimensions go, the Outback is a large car. It may not look big, but dont be fooled. Clamber inside and youll be blown away by the interior space. Rear legroom is very generous and you get the sensation of being on a business class flight. The rear seats can be reclined as well as folded forward to increase the boot capacity. It was already pretty decent, but with the rear seats down, huge loads can now be transported with ease.
It may look and drive like a car, but Subaru has given the Outback the usual offroad treatment. It has 213mm worth of ground clearance useful for most off-the-tarmac excursions and with the legendary all-wheel drive setup, its going to take an awful lot to stop an Outback. You may think its an out-and-out offroader, but inside the Outback has the fittings of a semi-luxury premium sedan.
Standard Subaru specification
Theres a rear-facing camera, sunroof, leather seats (which include eight-way setting adjustment for the driver), dual-zone climate control, multi-function steering wheel, cruise control, electronic handbrake and a BlueTooth/Mp3/USB audio system with six speakers. As far as standard specification generosity goes, Subaru will always score highly.
Safety features
Subaru is a repeat offender when it comes to safety awards and the Outback was the recipient of the 5-Star ANCAP rating and the vehicle has been comprehensively kitted out. There are seven airbags, ISOFIX child seat anchor points, anti-lock brakes, traction control, stability control as well as a limited slip differential, which all help keep the Outback stuck to the road, regardless of conditions.
Engine and gearbox
I was in the 2.5i-S derivative which has the well-known 2.5-litre four-cylinder horizontally-opposed Boxer engine. It has 123kW and 229Nm, and the power is sent to all four wheels by means of Subarus Lineartronic CVT gearbox. While most motoring writers lambaste these transmissions for being lacklustre and noisy, I find Subaru is one of the few manufacturers which has got things right. The engine struggles with the 1.5 ton mass of the Outback and while Im prepared to admit my test unit was barely run-in and the motor was tight, I stand by my recommendation of the diesel motor as the engine of choice. The diesel will offer better fuel consumption figures too.
Subaru Outback price in South Africa
Price for the Subaru Outback in South Africa starts from R409 000
Subaru Outback 2.5i review conclusion
Look, lets be honest here. R400 000 is a lot of money in anyones books and yes youre getting an okay package, but I just feel that this car should be a little cheaper. That said, the overall result and comparison to German rivals favours Subaru, as the Audi AllRoad quattro retails around the R430,000 mark yet doesnt offer as much off-road ability, practicality or standard features.
BMW doesnt have an answer to this vehicle locally either, as theres no four-wheel 3-Series station wagon available. Perhaps the strongest opposition to the Outback comes from within Subaru itself. The Forester has been proven to be a capable workhorse and when compared with similar powerplants, comes in substantially cheaper than its sibling.
Why you should: Immensely practical, generous specification, well-executed family vehicle which does so much.
Why you shouldnt: Not built for speed, looks utilitarian
It would be better if: that petrol engine had a bit more shove, pricing slipped under the R400 000 bracket
Competitors worth checking out: Audi AllRoad, BMW 3-Series, Honda Accord, Mazda6, Volkswagen Passat.
Subaru Outback 2.5i gallery
All-New Opel Astra Sedan Now In SA Specs and Prices
Opel has released the all-new Astra sedan along with four new derivatives to complete the Opel Astra Range in South Africa. The small c-segment family car features visual changes to the front and rear end crafted according to Opels latest design language.
Engine specs
The all-new Opel Astra sedan comes with a four model range which includes three different petrol engines and three transmissions. All three engines are part of Opels ECOTEC engine family and clear of Euro 5 emissions regulations.
The new Astra Essentia is fitted with a normally aspirated 1.6-litre petrol engine producing 85kW at 6000 rpm and 155Nm of torque available at 4 000 rpm. Mated to a five-speed manual gearbox, the front-wheel drive sedan returns a combined fuel consumption of 6.6-litres/100 km with CO2 emissions of 154 g/km.
The other four new models are available with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic gearbox. The Astra Turbo Essentia models benefit from a forced induction motor delivering 103kW of power between 4900 rpm and 6000 rpm and 200Nm of torque between 1850 rpm and 4900 rpm. The reduced fuel consumption on the combined cycle is rated at 5.9-litres/100km with CO2 emissions of 139 g/km in the manual version and 6.6-litres/100 km with 154 g/km in the automatic.
The range topping Astra Turbo Cosmo is equipped with a powerful 1.6-litre engine delivering 132kW at 5500 rpm and 230Nm of torque at 2200 rpm. Acceleration from 0-100km takes just 8.7 seconds reaching a top speed of 223 km/h. In addition to its sporty dynamics, the models fuel consumption is rated at an impressive 6.8-litres/100km with CO2 emissions of 159 g/km.
Comfortable ride characteristics
Opel says the new Astra sedan range has been developed to provide communicative yet comfortable ride characteristics. This can be seen in the 1.6 Essentia model which features a compound crank rear suspension design while sharing its MacPherson strut front suspension design with the rest of the range. While all Turbo models feature a more communicative Watts link rear suspension setup and a sportier chassis for the 1.6 Turbo Cosmo with a lowered ride height.
Superior luggage space and class leading features
The highlight of the new Opel Astra sedan is its class leading boot capacity of 460-litres with seats up and the additional metalwork to the rear end which adds 230mm to its overall length.
The Essentia and Turbo Essentia models come equipped with electric and heated side mirrors, a multi-function steering wheel with rake and reach adjustment, front and rear fog lamps, halogen daytime running lights, height adjustment for the drivers seat, folding rear seats and cloth trim, along with air conditioning, front electric windows with tinting all-round, cruise control with a speed limiter, a radio/CD player with USB, auxiliary and Bluetooth functionality, seven speakers, a multi-info trip computer and remote central locking with an alarm/immobiliser.
The range-topping Cosmo sedan comes with the same equipment as the other two models, with the addition of 18-inch rims, chrome detailing on the door handles and side window profile, a leather-bound steering wheel, automatic headlights and wipers, a sports seat for the driver with powered lumbar support adjustment, leather upholstery, heated front seats, automatic dual-zone climate control, electric windows all-round, hill start assistance, rear parking sensors, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror and a smart electronic parking brake.
Safety features
On the safety front, the new Opel Astra sedan boasts a five-star EuroNCAP rating and all models are fitted with ESP stability control, trailer sway control, active front head rests and six airbags. As well as ISOFIX child seat anchors, hydraulic brake fade assist and brake disc cleaning.
All-new Opel Astra Sedan Price
Opel Astra 1.6 Essentia – R239 900
Opel Astra 1.4 Turbo Essentia – R250 900
Opel Astra 1.4 Turbo Essentia AT – R261 800
Opel Astra 1.6 Turbo Cosmo – R284 500
All models in the new Opel Astra range come standard with a 5-year/120 000 km warranty and a 5-year/90 000 km service plan with service intervals of 15 000 km.
All-new Opel Astra Sedan gallery
SA Bound 2014 Alfa Romeo 4C – More Details Released
Full details of the 2014 Alfa Romeo 4C have been released ahead of its European launch in October 2013. The Italian automaker has said they will build only 3 500 units annually of which 1 000 of them are designated for Europe.
Captivating coupe with two racing bucket seats
The 4C comes equipped with a digital instrument cluster, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and two fabric covered racing bucket seats. The car aslo comes with a Racing pack that includes a sport steering wheel with leather and microfiber inserts, a sportier exhaust system, a race-tuned suspension and 18- and 19-inch wheels with AR Racing tyres. There’s also a Luxury Pack inclusive of leather and microfiber sports seats and Bi-LED headlights with carbon fiber surrounds. Additionally the car comes with grey brake calipers, a dual exhaust system and 17- / 18-inch alloy wheels.
Engine specs
Hand-built on a Formula One-derived carbon-fibre monocoque shell that weighs just 65 kg, the 2014 Alfa Romeo 4C is packed with a turbocharged 1.75-litre four-cylinder engine that produces 177 kW and 350 Nm of torque. It is connected to a dual-clutch transmission that enables the 895 kg sports car to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 4.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 258 km/h . Fuel consumption is rated at 6.8-litres/100km with CO2 emissions of 157 g/km.
The mini supercar is expected in South Africa during the middle of 2014, just after the European launch. Pricing is unconfirmed, but expected to be over R650 000.
2014 Alfa Romeo 4C gallery
Top Three Value For Money Sport Hatchbacks
So you want a fast car? Well, if youre like us and still taking a battering from financial pressures, yet crave some fun petrol goodness, then these three cars will make you smile. All three are reasonably priced, offer decent fuel economy, are well-kitted out and most importantly, are downright great fun to drive and will make you smile. Check out our top three value for money sport hatchbacks.
Suzuki Swift Sport
Suzuki has taken the popular Swift runabout and replaced the little 1.4-litre engine with a high-revving 1.6-litre pushing out 100kW and 160Nm. A Go-Faster bodykit has been added too. With this sort of power in such a tiny body, performance is going to be zippy. Handling is superb, and despite it making you act a little childish, is well appointed with grown-up stuff like Xenon headlights and keyless entry. It looks great too, particularly in the violent shade of yellow. Read our review and find out why the swift is such an excellent city car.
Cant afford one of the desirable Clio RS or Megane RS models? Your worries are over as you can get a similar driving experience in this baby RenaultSport. It has a high-revving 1.6-litre engine and offers 98kW and 160Nm. Its handling is incredible, and youll find yourself going round corners at speeds which you didnt think were possible. Itll bring out the worst in you and the car loves being driven hard. The only downside? Theres only one colour Malta Blue.
Fiat Abarth 500
Finally! The cute little Fiat 500 gets a much-needed performance model. The cool part has to be the Abarth logo: its a scorpion! Its the only turbocharged car here and pushes out 103kW and 206Nm from its 1.4-litre motor. It can be a handful to drive, but thats part of the appeal. Theres also an option of the EsseEsse pack, which makes it even faster and more fun to drive.
Having recently debuted its GLA-Class at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, Mercedes-Benz is introducing a limited-run of the Edition 1 GLA compact crossover which will apparently be available for 12 months only.
Exclusive exterior paint schemes
The Mercedes-Benz GLA Edition 1 will be offered with four exclusive exterior paint schemes such as Cirrus White, Mountain Grey Metallic, Orient Brown Metallic and Designo Magno Mountingrau, along with five-spoke 19-inch AMG black alloys and bi-xenon headlights. Other distinguishing features include aluminium roof rails, chrome bumper protection and chrome dual tailpipes.
Interior Features
The interior comprises of various aluminium inserts and comfort seats, a three-spoke flat-bottomed steering wheel covered in leather, and brushed stainless steel sport pedals. The GLA Edition 1 will be available with any of the four standard engines.
Ordering of this model will begin overseas in November, and as for South African customers, they can expect the standard GLA-Class in mid 2014. More details will be made available closer to the launch.
Mercedes-Benz GLA Edition 1 gallery
2014 Kia Sportage Update Revealed – SA Release Date
Kia has introduced the 2014 model year version of the Sportage which was first launched back in 1993. The complete restyle for 2014 features a revised design and additional standard equipment.
Enhanced efficiency
Available in three trims LX, EX and SX, the 2014 Kia Sportage has a revamped base 2.4-litre inline four-cylinder engine that develops 135kW of power and 239Nm of torque. Connection to a six-speed automatic transmission enables the front-wheel drive model to return 11.2-litres/100km city and 7.8-litres/100km highway.
Refined and Sophisticated Design Features
Minor changes to the 2014 Kia Sportage include a revised grille, restyled fog lamps, as well as optional HID headlights and LED taillights, while interior changes are limited to just additional standard equipment. That includes a tilt and telescopic steering column (standard across all trim levels), rear ventilation and reclining outboard seats. The model can also be equipped with a Premium package that adds leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, GPS navigation with SiriusXM Traffic, and power-folding outside mirrors.
In addition, the original UVO infotainment system adds a new advanced voice-activated telematics control suite. The system can connect to the internet via a smartphone and provides drivers with an innovative in-vehicle connectivity experience including diagnostics capabilities and added convenience features.
This is however just the US spec model. Kia SA confirmed with us that the 2014 Sportage FL CUV will be launched locally in the first half of 2014, more details and prices will follow closer to the launch.
2014 Kia Sportage gallery
Dramatic Ford Evos Concept Coming to South Africa
Said to be the single largest international automotive event in South Africa, the Johannesburg International Motor Show will play host to a multitude of local manufacturers who will be showcasing various exciting new models. And among these will be the Ford Evos Concept which came in to the scene back in 2011.
Ford Marketing Manager Gavin Golightly says that the Ford Evos Concept was specifically developed to introduce the new Ford design direction while also showcasing future smart technologies. While you will never see this car on the road key design elements and innovations will be applied to forthcoming Ford vehicles.
New design direction
The new global design DNA has provided Fords worldwide design teams with a common framework to guide the creation of new products, enabling them to shape a coherent family of distinctive vehicles sharing the same fundamental design character.
The bespoke four-door coupe comes with dramatic hinged gullwing-style doors that open up to a futuristic interior covered in premium materials and a cloud based computing system. With the length of a typical C-segment car, the concepts bulging hood, LED headlights and an Aston Martin-like grille conceal Fords unique new design language, which will be evident in future models.
Ford Evos Concept focussed on driver health
Ford researchers have also incorporated technologies to enhance driver health and wellness while at the wheel with features such as the heart-rate monitoring seat and certified allergy-free interiors connect to the cloud to monitor the physical state and workload of the driver, and adjust the driving experience accordingly.
The role of the Ford Evos Concept is to give a clear message about where Ford is heading. Its modern design gives an indication of Fords intent to continue to offer a range of smart technologies, already evidenced in South Africa with the award winning EcoBoost engines and SYNC system, adds Golightly.
The Johannesburg Motor Show will be open to the public from 18-27 October 2013.
Ford Evos Concept Gallery
Value Added Peugeot 208 Access 1.0 VTi – Specs and Price
Peugeot has extended its popular 208 compact hatchback line-up with the 208 Access 1.0 VTi just months after adding the GTi version to the range.
The 208 Access 1.0 VTi showcases the French marques latest design language, but its three-door configuration adds a further element of youthful flair and sportiness to the already popular range.
Engine capability
The thee door Peugeot 208 Access 1.0 VTi is fitted with a three-cylinder 1.0-litre VTi engine with a maximum output of 50kW at 6000 rpm and a toque figure of 95Nm at 3000 rpm. Connected to a five-speed manual gearbox, the 208 Access can accelerate from 0-100km/h in 14 seconds reaching a top speed of 163 km/h.
Fuel consumption is rated at an average 4.3-litres/100km with CO2 emissions of 99 g/km, while open road consumption drops to an impressive 3.8-litres/100 km.
Exterior and interior features
The modern stylish exterior features a striking black honeycomb grille with dark aluminium surround, and is flanked by bold proportioned headlights on either side. Another distinctive feature of the Peugeot 208 Access is the boomerang-shaped tail lights while the slick silhouette and smooth roofline add to the dynamic aesthetics.
In addition, the interior is packed with smart functionality including front bucket seats and rear bench covered in durable cloth upholstery.
Standard equipment includes electric front windows, central locking, Isofix child seat mounts, and an on-board trip computer, as well as ABS brakes with EBD and dual front airbags for the driver and front passenger, 15-inch steel wheels with hubcaps and a full-size spare wheel.
Peugeot 208 Access 1.0 VTi – Price
Peugeot 208 Access VTi 1.0 R147 500
The three-door Peugeot 208 Access 1.0 VTi is covered by a three-year warranty, as well as Peugeots Premium Plan a five-year/60 000km maintenance plan.
