Used Car Analysis for February 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 February 2013 a total of 926 831 vehicle views were made on Cars.co.za. Here is a breakdown of the most popular used cars in South Africa for February 2013 as well as the most popular used car brands.

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

Model	Total views	Used car market penetration
1. BMW 3-Series	55 536	5.00%
2. Volkswagen Polo	47 209	5.00%
3. Volkswagen Golf	39 099	4.00%
4. Mercedes-Benz C-Class	31 485	3.00%
5. Audi A4	27 525	2.00%
6. Toyota Corolla	21 283	2.00%
7. Audi A3	19 719	2.00%
8. Volkswagen Polo Vivo	18 048	1.00%
9. Toyota Hilux	16 599	1.00%
10. BMW 1 Series	16 274	1.00%

The BMW 3-Series is South Africa’s most sought after used car with a market penetration percentage of 5%. The BMW 3-Series was the brand’s best selling new vehicle in 2012. The Volkswagen Polo is in second place with a market penetration percentage of 5% but with marginally less views for month. The VW Polo is ranked fourth as South Africa’s most popular new car for February 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 February 2013, is in eighth place in the used car market with a market penetration percentage of 1%. Interestingly, South Africa’s best-selling bakkie, the Toyota Hilux, is placed ninth in the used car market with a market penetration percentage of only 1%.

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

Used car brand	Total views	Used car market penetration %	New car market penetration*
1. VW	153 616	16.00%	19.70%
2. BMW	110 603	11.00%	5.20%
3. Toyota	92 685	10.00%	23.80%
4. Mercedes	58 773	6.00%	4.70%
5. Ford	48 992	5.00%	9.80%

* According to official NAAMSA sales figures for February 2013.

According to Cars.co.za, Volkswagen is considered to be the most popular used car brand in South Africa with a used car market penetration percentage of 16%. In the new car market Volkswagen is ranked second with a market share of 19.7%. Interestingly, BMW is ranked second as the most sought after used car brand in the used car market with a penetration percentage of 11% while in the new car market it only accounts for 5.2% of new car sales. Toyota on the other hand is the most popular new car brand with a market share of 23.8% but is placed third in the used car market with a market penetration percentage of 10%. Mercedes-Benz has a larger penetration in the used car market which could be indicative of its popularity in the used car market. Ford, however is ranked fifth in the used car market while it is ranked fourth in the new car market with a market share of 9.8%.

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.

MINI Countryman reaches 250 000 production milestone

MINI reached an impressive production milestone this week when the 250 000th Countryman rolled off the production line in Graz, Austria. The MINI Countryman is the first model in the 50-year history of the brand to feature four doors, a large tailgate, up to five seats and a variable-use load compartment that offers between 350 and 1 170-litres of space.

MINI Countryman celebrates worldwide success

The strong global demand for the MINI Countryman represents a compelling endorsement of the rigorous expansion strategy implemented for the MINI range, said Harald Kruger, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, MINI, Motorcycles, Rolls-Royce, Aftersales BMW Group.

The roll-out of the 250,000th MINI Countryman follows the start of MINI Paceman production which is the seventh model in the brands line-up.

The MINI Paceman is designed for a target group that appreciates extra functionality and who want to experience a balance of agility and driving comfort that comes into its own over long journeys, say MINI. The capability of the Countryman is realised in the fact that it’s the brands first model to feature the ALL4 all-wheel-drive system.

The most popular version of the Countryman in 2012 was the MINI Cooper S Countryman followed closely by the MINI Cooper Countryman. Although the diesel models are not sold in all markets, they managed to pull off approximately 37 percent of MINI Countryman sales in 2012.

Nissan sales summary in South Africa for February 2013

Nissan South Africa had a positive sales month in February 2013 and was ranked as the third best-selling new car brand in South Africa for the month, after Toyota and Volkswagen. Here is a breakdown Nissan sales which includes critical sales figures as well as sales figures for indivudual Nissan models.

Nissan sales summary – February 2013

Total new car sales: 4 703 units
Total market share: 10.2%
Passenger vehicle sales: 2 438 units (7.9% market share)
Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) sales: 2 265 units (17% market share)

Top 5 Nissan new passenger car sales February compared to January 2013

Model	Sales
Nissan Micra	806 (598)
Nissan Juke	506 (449)
Nissan Qashqai	450 (310)
Nissan Tiida	234 (189)
Nissan X-Trail	167 (128)

Nissan new light commercial vehicle sales February compared to January 2013

Model	Sales
Nissan NP200	1 245 (1 553)
Nissan NP300 Hardbody	699 (949)
Nissan Navara	306 (195)

Top 5 Nissan Used Cars on Cars.co.za – February 2013

Model	Vehicle views
Nissan Hardbody	5 996
Nissan Navara	4 446
Nissan Qashqai	2 856
Nissan Tiida	2800
Nissan Micra	2220

Nissan in the News

Nissan Juke NISMO debuts at Chicago Auto Show

Nissan LEAF smashes 50 000 global sales target

Updated 2013 Nissan GTR available in South Africa

Datsun returning to South Africa in 2014

New Nissan Pathfinder SE ready to order in South Africa

Lamborghini Aventador Limo Concept revealed

A luxury car hire company in the UK, Cars-For-Stars, has unveiled a concept Lamborghini Aventador limo which is a stretch version of the original model. The project is still in its first stages as the car will remain a concept until funding can be raised to create the Lamborghini Aventador Stretch Limo.

Lamborghini Aventador Limo – Design Features

The concept car known as the Lambo, features exaggerated sleekness and sophistication of the Aventador. Its innovative and futuristic design is a step out of the ordinary and is sure to create massive hype in the world of luxury motoring.

The Lamborghini Aventador Limo features a fiery orange chassis framed with four scissor doors. Inside the car are two Italian-built seats and an interior covered in plush leather and decorated with the Cars-For-Stars logo. Other features include heated seating, rear plasma screens; surround sound, iPod docks and champagne bars, providing a luxurious limousine experience.

Ferrari LaFerrari prances to success

Only 499 examples of the Prancing Horse Ferrari LaFerrari will be built and in just over a week since its official reveal at the Geneva Motor Show, the LaFerrari has received more than twice that number in requests. As the successor to the Ferrari Enzo, the LaFerrari consumes less fuel and Co2 emissions have been reduced by as much as 50%.

Ferrari Chairman, Luca di Montezemolo, spoke of the LaFerrari at its presentation, It is the highest expression of excellence of our company, technological innovation, performance, futuristic style, driving pleasure. It is an extraordinary car, destined to our collectors. A car with technical solutions, which in the future will be integrated in our range and which are the benchmark for the entire sector. LaFerrari represents the best planning and building capacities in our Company, including those acquired in Formula One, knowledge, unique in the world.

Ferrari LaFerrari performance figures

The Ferrari LaFerrari is powered with HY-KERS hybrid technology which includes a 6.3-litre V12 engine and an electric motor. The power output of the V12 engine is a hefty 588kW with a torque figure of 700Nm. The electric motor however delivers an additional 120kW while the combined output of the system totals 708kW with a maximum torque figure of 900Nm. All that power is put to the tar using a 7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT).

As a result, the Ferrari LaFerrari can sprint to 100km/h in less than 3 seconds and from zero to 200km/h in less than 7 seconds before reaching a top speed exceeding 350km/h.

Ferrari LaFerrari Price

Ferarri LaFerrari – R15.3-million

Volkswagen Amarok gets engine upgrade

Volkswagen has upgraded the entry-level engine of the Amarok Double Cab Trendline model which is available in either rear wheel drive (4×2) or selectable 4Motion derivatives.

Volkswagen Amarok Double Cab Trendline adds more power

The Volkswagen Amarok Double Cab Trendline comes fitted with an uprated four-cylinder 2.0-litre TDI engine that delivers 103kW and accelerates from zero to 100km/h in 12.6 seconds (previously 13.2 seconds) and reaches a top speed of 168km/h (previously 162km/h). The maximum torque figure of 340Nm at 1600rpm to 2250rpm remains unchanged.

Features

Customers will be able to choose from a number of optional features such as 17, 18 and 19-inch alloy wheels as well as a communication package that includes a multi-function steering wheel and Bluetooth cell phone preparation. Other options will include front and rear Park Distance Control and an RCD 310 Radio/CD player with six speakers.

Volkswagen Amarok Price

Model	Price
Volkswagen Amarok Double Cab 2.0 TDI 4×2 Trendline	R364 200
Volkswagen Amarok Double Cab 2.0 TDI 4Motion Trendline	R415 200

The Amarok Double Cab model range comes standard with a 3 year/100 000km manufacturer warranty, a 5 year/90 000km Automotion Service Plan and a 6-year anti-corrosion warranty with service intervals at 15 000km.

New Isuzu KB rumbles into South Africa

The all-new and locally made 6th generation Isuzu KB bakkie is now available in South Africa with a choice of 26 models across four specification levels including Base, Fleetside (High Ride configuration), LE and LX. The new Isuzu KB features new styling, higher levels of comfort, safety and more powerful engines.

New Isuzu KB means business

Engine options

An all-new 2.4-litre petrol engine is available for the Base, Fleetside and LE models. This new engine produces 112kW with a maximum torque figure of 233Nm. The combined-cycle fuel consumption figure for this engine is rated at 10.4-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 245g/km.

A low pressure 2.5-litre turbo diesel engine is also available for the Base and Fleetside models. This engine produces 58kW of power with 170Nm of torque. The proven 2.5-litre D-TEQ engine is available for the Base, Fleetside and LE specification levels and produces 85kW and 280Nm. This engine has a fuel consumption figure of 7.7-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 203g/km.

The top-of-the-range engine is the 3.0-litre D-TEQ engine that is available for the LX specification in all three body styles in either 4X2 or 4X4 format. This engine delivers 130kW and 380Nm of torque while returning a combined fuel consumption figure of 7.7-litres/100km and CO2 emissions of 204g/km.

Exterior Styling Features

The new Isuzu KB is 260mm longer, 60mm wider and 60mm taller than the previous model, resulting in an increase in interior space and a more spacious load box. Aerodynamic changes have been made to help reduce drag and improve overall fuel efficiency. The A-pillar now sits 100mm further forward and at an increased angle which further improves the seating position of front-seat passengers.

All four-wheel drive (4WD) and High Ride models feature integrated wheel arch flares which replace the plastic overfenders used on the previous model. Larger wheel openings are a new feature of the new Isuzu KB. The roof, sides and door structure have all been redesigned. The LX specification benefits from a chrome grille and bonnet garnish while the LE specification gets a body coloured grille. Base and Fleetside models feature a black grille.

Interior Styling Features

The increase in overall size has created a more spacious interior with reduced noise, vibration and harshness levels (NVH). More space is available under the dashboard with shoulder room increasing by 10mm. Rear seat passengers now have 25mm of extra space and the styling of the doors for all three body styles have been optimised for shape, size and opening angle to make entry and exit as easy as possible.

Vehicle controls are logically placed before the driver for optimum use. The three-spoke steering wheel features a soft grip cover while the LX variants feature a leather covered steering wheel with satellite audio controls as standard.

New Isuzu KB Price

Model	Price
Isuzu KB 250 D-TEQ Diesel Single Cab	From R229 300
Isuzu KB 250 Diesel Extended Cab LE	From R290 700
Isuzu KB 250 Diesel Double Cab LE	From R363 200
Isuzu KB 240 Petrol Single Cab Base	From R218 900
Isuzu KB 240 Petrol Double Cab LE	From R309 100

Mitsubishi Concept G4 set for Bangkok reveal

The Mitsubishi Concept G4 will be unveiled at the Bangkok Motor Show at the end of March. The Concept G4, which stands for ‘Global 4-door’, is a concept model for a compact sedan which Mitsubishi plans on rolling out worldwide.

Mitsubishi Concept G4 Features

According to Mitsubishi, the Concept G4 uses a ‘high-clarity brilliant-cut diamond motif for the front grille, headlamps and rear combination lamps’ which gives the vehicle a unique presence on the road.

The Mitsubishi Concept G4 features next-generation compact sedan styling which includes a short nose which provides better visibility and manoeuvrability, a flowing side profile and generous interior cabin space.

Fuel efficiency is enhanced with the Concept G4’s Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) body which is lightweight and made of high-tensile steel. In addition, the Concept G4 will be powered by the lightweight and compact 1.2-litre MIVEC engine which will be mated to a CVT with a sub-geartrain along with weight reduction throughout.

The Mitsubishi Concept G4 offers notable passenger comfort with a high hip point and large door openings for easy entry and exit as well as offering generous rear seat legroom.

The Mitsubishi Concept G4 will be on display at the 2013 Bangkok Motor show which starts on 25 March 7 April 2013.

Volvo Active High Beam Control makes night driving safer

The new Volvo S60, V60 and XC60 models which are currently on show at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show can be fitted with the new Volvo Active High Beam Control, making night driving safer and more comfortable for the driver, as well as for other motorists on the road.

Our aim with the renewed Volvo Active High Beam Control technology is to enhance visibility in the dark by making it possible to use high beam permanently, without having to switch to low beam when meeting or catching up with other cars, says Prof. Lotta Jakobsson, Senior Technical Specialist Safety, Volvo Cars Safety Centre.

Volvo Active High Beam Control Features

The main advantage of the Volvo Active High Beam Control is that the traffic environment outside the shaded area is still illuminated by the high beam and allows drivers to detect objects on the roadside such as parked cars, pedestrians and animals.

The shading mechanism prevents dazzling of oncoming motorists. When an oncoming car approaches or when catching up to another car from behind, the mechanism shades out just enough light as is necessary. The Active High Beam Control uses the same camera used for detection and automatic braking and is located by the rear-view mirror at the top of the windscreen. The camera detects vehicles and identifies the area that needs to be shaded. The Volvo Active High Beam Control technology is accurate enough to frame an object with a 1.5 degree margin.

The control unit relays the information to an ingenious projector module mechanism integrated into the headlamp. A small cylinder with metal pieces of different sizes allows the possibility of shading just as much beam as is necessary.

The Volvo Active High Beam Control features Xenon lamps and is active from speeds up to 15km/h.

Most read motoring news articles for February 2013

Missed the news? If so, take a look at some of the most popular motoring articles on Cars.co.za for February and get up to speed. The most read read articles are as follows…