Porsche 911 GT3 stuns at Geneva Auto Show

Porsche has unveiled the fifth-generation Porsche 911 GT3 at the Geneva Motor Show. The Porsche 911 GT3 features the first active rear-wheel steering in a production Porsche and also benefits from a new engine, transmission, body and chassis.

Porsche 911 GT3 – Specifications and Features

Engine Capability

The fifth-generation Porsche 911 GT3 is fitted with a 3.8-litre boxer engine that produces 354kW at 9 000rpm and sprints from 0-100km/h in just over 3.3 seconds before reaching a top speed of 314km/h. The 911 GT3 also features a specially developed Porsche dual-clutch transmission (PDK), which drives the rear wheels.

The six-cylinder boxer engine is based on the same engine used for the 911 Carrera S, but only share a few common parts. All the other components, including the crank shaft and valve gear, were specifically adapted or designed for the Porsche 911 GT3.

Exterior Styling Features

Exterior alterations include distinctive front and rear fascias, fully optional LED headlights and 20-inch forged alloy wheels with center-locking hubs which replace conventional wheel bolts. The 2014 Porsche 911 GT3 uses the same light and stiff hybrid steel and aluminium body of the 911 Carrera but adds unique front and rear parts unique to the 911 GT3. Furthermore, the Porsche 911 GT3 is wider than the 911 Carrera S at the rear and has a large rear wing which contributes to enhanced aerodynamics.

Subaru VIZIV Concept shown in Geneva

Fuji Heavy Industries (FHI), the manufacturer of Subaru automobiles, has unveiled the Subaru VIZIV Concept at the 83rd Geneva Motor Show. The Subaru VIZIV Concept envisions the future design direction of Subaru and represents the ‘Vision for Innovation’ philosophy adopted by the brand.

Subaru VIZIV Concept – Specifications and Features

Engine Capability

The Subaru VIZIV Concept features a plug-in ‘Boxer Diesel Hybrid’ powertrain which consists of a 2.0-litre Subaru Boxer diesel engine that is mated to a CVT with a front motor and two individual rear motors. The motors are mostly used for low-speed, urban driving while the Boxer engine takes over for highway driving.

Exterior and Interior Design Features

The Subaru VIZIV Concept features a large, outward projecting grille that is the pinnacle of the vehicle’s design. The design is both lean and bold while still conveying a sporty and athletic appearance. The VIZIV Concept is painted in ‘Mistral Silver Metallic’. On the inside, the Subaru VIZIV Concept features a refined interior which has been spacially optimised for maximum comfort. The cockpit features an instrument panel that is easily accessible to the driver and the tachometer and speedometer features a unique cylindrical design. Custom information displays are found in the rear seating area for passengers.

Volkswagen Golf 7 Variant Wagon shown in Geneva

The new Volkswagen Golf  7 Variant station wagon has been unveiled at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. Like its hatchback sibling, the Golf Variant is some 105kg lighter than it predecessor and will be introduced into the European market in August 2013. The Volkswagen Golf 7 Variant will not be launched in South Africa.

Volkswagen Golf 7 Variant gets BlueMotion

The Golf Variant will also be offered in the form of a TDI BlueMotion model that will provide 82kW of power with a combined fuel consumption figure of 4.0-litres/100km when equipped with a six-speed manual transmission. The BlueMotion Golf Variant will therefore be the most fuel efficient wagon ever produced by Volkswagen.

The all-wheel drive 4Motion Golf Variant is also currently being showcased at the Geneva Motor Show and will be made avaialble as a TDI Clean Diesel model with either a 78kW engine or a 112kW unit.

Volkswagen has also announced that a Golf Variant TGI BlueMotion model with natural gas drive (CNG) is in development.

Lamborghini Veneno unveiled in Geneva

The Lamborghini Veneno has been revealed, which marks the company’s 50th anniversary, and only three units of the Veneno will be made. The name Veneno refers to one of the strongest and most aggressive fighting bulls in Spain, where it fatally wounded a matador in 1914. The Lamborghini Veneno was unveiled at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show.

Lamborghini Veneno is one-of-a-kind supercar

Engine Capability

The Lamborghini Veneno is fitted with a 12-cylinder, 6.5-litre engine that develops 552kW and is mated to a fast-shifting 7-speed ISR transmission with five driving modes and permanent all-wheel drive. The Veneno sprints from 0-100km/h in just 2.8 seconds and reaches a top speed of 355km/h.

Exterior Design Features

The Lamborghini Veneno features a racing chassis with push-rod suspension and horizontal spring/damper units. The complete chassis is a Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) monocoque while the interior features materials such as Lamborghini’s Forged Composite and CarbonSkin. The Veneno’s body has been optimised to provide maximum aerodynamic efficiency and optimum downforce. The arrow-shaped front-end serves as an aerodynamic wing with channels guiding air to the outlets in the hood and in front of the windscreen.

The rear-end features a diffuser that frames the four large exhaust tailpipes and is divided by a splitter to increase the level of downforce peak. Large openings help ventilate the engine while the engine cover extends into a large central ‘shark fin’ which enhances efficiency and rear-end stability during braking.

The Lamborghini Veneno is fitted with 20-inch alloy wheels at the front and 21-inch wheels at the rear. The Veneno is painted in an all-new, grey-metallic colour. The car on display in Geneva is the only car to display all three colours of the Italian flag while the other three units will each feature a single colour from the flag, which includes white, green and red.

Interior Design Features

The interior is also dominated by carbon fibre and the two lightweight bucket seats are made from Lamborghini’s patented Forged Composite. The woven carbon fibre CarbonSkin is used throughout the cockpit, on the seats and for the headliner. This unique material is versatile and helps reduce weight. The instrument panel has been redesigned and provides all necessary information to the driver.

The vehicle on show at the Geneva Motor Show is number 0 and is a Lamborghini test vehicle and will most likely be used to continue testing. The three exclusive Veneno models will be built throughout 2013 and have already been sold to customers.

New Ferrari LaFerrari bows in Geneva

The new Ferrari LaFerrari has been unveiled at the Genvea Motor Show. Only 499 of the new LaFerrari’s will be built. According to Ferrari, the LaFerrari embodies ‘excellence in terms of technological innovation, performance, visionary styling and the sheer thrill of driving’.

New Ferrari LaFerrari showcases hybrid tech

Engine Capability

The new Ferrari LaFerrari features HY-KERS hybrid technology which includes a 6.3-litre V12 engine that produces 588kW and 700Nm of torque. This engine is coupled to a 120kW electric motor which offers a combined power out of 708kW with a combined maximum torque figure 900Nm. The hybrid system is mated to a 7-speed DCT transmission. Accelaration to 100km/h will take less than 3 seconds before the LaFerrari reaches a top speed exceeding 350km/h.

Exterior and Interior Design Features

The Ferrari LaFerrari  design was headed by the Ferrari design team and led by Flavio Manzoni to create an extreme and innovative design which stays true to Ferrari tradition. The side profile highlights the sharp, downward-sloping nose with a very low bonnet which accents the large wheel arches. On the inside the LaFerrari features a newly designed steering wheel with integrated command buttons and gear-shift paddles that are now longer and more ergonomic. The signature bridge on which the F1 gearbox functions has now taken the form of a sleek, suspended wing-like shape. The Ferrari LaFerrari is fitted with 19-inch front wheels while the rear wheels are 20-inches in size.

It’s not clear whether the Ferrari LaFerrari will be sold in South Africa.

Kia Provo Concept in Geneva

The Kia Provo Concept will be showcased at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show which starts tomorrow and hints at a potential future B-segment vehicle from the Korean automaker. According to Kia, the Provo Concept was designed for fun and is meant to be cheeky and cheerful in its compactness.

Gregory Guillaume, Chief Designer at Kia’s European styling base in Frankfurt describes the Provo Concept as “an emotional and muscular car aimed at delivering pure fun and performance for today’s city-based enthusiast driver who longs for the curves of the open road. This is entirely a car for European tastes and conditions. Designed purely at our Frankfurt studios, the Provo was conceived as a confident and single-minded statement of dynamism and energy to deliver a new sense of fun into the B-segment. The potent shaping displays a balanced and refined outline within a compact overall shape and the tiny front and rear overhangs enhance the balance within its proportions.”

Kia Provo Concept – Specifications and Features

Engine Capability

The Kia Provo Concept is fitted with a Smart 4WD Hybrid powertrain which includes a 1.6-litre Turbo GD1 engine that develops 150kW along with an electric motor that provides an additional 33kW to the rear wheels and allows for electric-only driving at lower speeds. A 7-speed DCT transmission, a first for Kia, is responsible for putting power to the road.

Exterior Styling Features

The Kia Provo Concept stands 3.88m long, 1.77m wide and 1.35m tall with a steep front nose and carbon fibre lower valance that forms the face of the vehicle. Behind a single piece of glass is Kia’s latest take on a ‘tiger nose’ grille treatment which links directly into the Schreyer-inspired headlamps that are made up of more that 850 LED lights. The LED’s are programmable and can be used as Daytime Running Lights (DRLs), full beam lights or used in race-style configurations. A wrap-around front screen hides the A-pillars and frameless doors providing a visor-style appearance with the ‘clamshell-like’ roof floating above.

Different exterior colours are used to draw attention to particular features of the vehicle. ‘Blood Orange’ accents are used to contrast with the grey-green ‘Storm Metal’ body colour while carbon fibre surfaces and high-gloss or anodised aluminium further add to the Provo’s visual appeal. The Kia Provo Concept is fitted with 19-inch milled-alloy wheels finished in anodised ‘Blood Orange’.

Interior Styling Features

The interior is predominantly finished in black and the dashboard is made from a single piece of carbon fibre. The doors feature polished aluminium panels and are made of three individual panels including an outer panel, a carbon fibre inner panel and a neoprene-covered inner section in ‘Storm Metal’ body colour.

The Kia Provo concept also features aluminium inner door handles, footrests and pedals. The dashboard features large analogue dials on a digital display with a smaller central display for other minor gauges. The engine stop-start button, the transmission drive selector and Multi-Media Interface control are found on two control hubs in the centre tunnel.

The seats are made from a single wave-like panel and covered in quilted leather. The cockpit design is completed with small red LED lights set in the doors, air vents and roof, providing ‘low-glow’ ambient illumination.

Guillaume commented, “The whole interior concept was designed around not having a big centre console, but instead using latest technology to provide excellent functionality in a clean, clear and attractive manner.”

There are no immediate plans to put the Kia Provo Concept into production.

Volkswagen eCo Motion concept joins Geneva lineup

The Volkswagen eCo Motion concept transporter vehicle will be officially introduced to the world alongside other Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles at the Geneva Motor Show tomorrow.

Volkswagen eCo Motion concept goes electric

The Volkswagen eCo Motion concept is powered by an electric driving system. The eCo Motion stands 4.55m long, 1.90m wide and 1.96m tall and offers a maximum cargo capacity of 4.6 cubic metres with a payload of 800kg. This is made possible by clear partitioning of the vehicle body into a lower driving-relevant zone which includes a underfloor drive unit, battery and gearbox while the upper superstructure is dedicated to delivery tasks.

“Electric mobility, especially in light commercial vehicles could play a crucial role in meeting the growing transport needs of the world’s megacities,” explains Dr. Eckhard Scholz, Speaker of the Brand Board of Management.

“Freight trains and conventional or hybrid-powered high capacity lorries would deliver goods up to the city limits. Then, at transfer stations, smaller electric delivery vans would take over. Their predictable travel routes and fixed depots would simplify battery charging and equipment maintenance” he added.

The eCo Motion’s design offers high maneuverability with a small vehicle footprint, quality visibility and seating ergonomics as well as a low load floor for easier loading.

Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2 Elite Review

Now in its third generation, the flagship Hyundai Santa Fe recreational vehicle has landed on South African shores and I spent a few days getting to grips with the vehicle.

Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2 Elite review by David Taylor

Hyundai’s striking looks

Hyundai has come a long way both in terms of product quality and design. Gone are the days of generic-looking bland passenger cars. Now, the Koreans are happily producing vehicles that not only match the established European competition, but soundly thump them in some departments too. Take this new Hyundai Santa Fe. Yes, it looks a little similar to the smaller IX35 yet still retains a staunch, masculine appearance. Dominated by a big shiny grille and eye-catching headlamps, the Santa Fe is one of the more attractive SUVs around.

Powerful and smooth engine

To lug the big Hyundai Santa Fe around, the 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine is up to the job. With 145kW and 436Nm driving to all four wheels through a six-speed automatic gearbox, the Santa Fe effortlessly powers its way up to national highway speeds. The engine does sound a little like a tractor while idling but under acceleration, it settles into a silky smooth rhythm. Despite the vehicle’s size, the Santa Fe is surprisingly light on fuel. On a recent road trip to Mossel Bay from Cape Town, the vehicle was happily returning figures of under 9L/100km.

Luxurious and full-equipped

Speaking of road trips, I can only heap praise onto the way this thing drives. Not only is it comfortable, the ride is smooth and it feels as if you’re in something luxurious. As far as equipment and specification goes, the Hyundai Santa Fe is packed to the hilt. I’m going to save you time by listing the things that aren’t present, as the full comprehensive list is ridiculously long. The only things that aren’t fitted are satellite navigation and Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity.

Things worth mentioning is the integrated rear camera that has a screen in the mirror, auto headlights, auto handbrake, auto wipers, a third row of seats which folds down neatly. There’s even a full panoramic roof, steering modes (Sport, Comfort and Normal) as well as heated seats. I generally mark a vehicle down if it doesn’t have a decent USB integration and I was pleasantly surprised at how quick and easy my iPod was able to communicate with the car. Better yet, the USB socket was located in a convenient position.

Useful offroad ability

Despite the fact that this vehicle is aimed at the urban family, the vehicle does come with a few offroad party tricks. It has a ground clearance of 185mm and all-wheel drive, two things which I believe will cover most offroad applications. There is also hill descent control which makes doing steep descents a breeze and should the vehicle become stuck in something like thick beach sand, the lockable diff will come into play.

Please note that this isn’t a vehicle to try conquering Africa in. Not only does it lack a low-range gearbox (vital for serious offroading) but the Hyundai Santa Fe needs the 50ppm low sulphur diesel – something that’s not readily available in the back and beyond. To be honest, these drawbacks don’t matter as most Santa Fe models will be owned and driven in and around the major cities.

Comprehensive warranty

I remember the days when Korean cars were mediocre and I can recall saying to people, “give both Kia and Hyundai some time. Soon you’ll see them making cars that rival the German trio.” The new Hyundai Santa Fe is proof of that. It’s a simply brilliant vehicle that offers astonishing levels of comfort and practicality. It can do a bit of offroading too and there is literally no reason why the South African buying public can scoff at the thought of owning a Korean vehicle.

Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2 Elite – Price

The Hyundai Santa Fe is extremely well-appointed and when you consider what you’re getting, just under R500,000 doesn’t sound like silly money. Throw in the comprehensive Hyundai warranty of a five year/90 000km service contract and you’re looking at serious contender for this segment.

  • Why you should: Refined, drives well, engine/gearbox combo a treat, practical, impressive specification.
  • Why you shouldn’t: Don’t be fooled into thinking this is a serious off-roader. It’s not.
  • It would be better if: the radio had RDS, a Bluetooth phone system was fitted.
  • View the Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2 Elite: New / Used
  • Competitors worth checking out: Toyota Fortuner, Chevrolet Trailblazer, BMW X3, Audi Q5

Most popular new cars in South Africa for February 2013

The South African automotive industry experienced a relatively solid month in terms of new car sales with a total of 51 005 units sold during the month. Domestic sales however dropped by 7.2% compared to January sales of 54 948 units. Here is a look at South Africa’s Top 5 best-selling new cars for February 2013.

1. Toyota Hilux – 3 500 units

The hard-working Toyota Hilux has come out on top as South Africa’s most popular new car for the month. The Hilux was ranked in third place in January behind the the VW Polo and VW Polo Vivo and is also considered to be South Africa’s best selling bakkie. The Toyota Hilux is available in three body styles namely 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 – 2 742 units

The Polo Vivo is the best-selling vehicle in the passenger car segment and has sold consistently well for many consecutive months. The Polo Vivo was the South Africa’s most popular new car in 2012 and if the numbers are anything to go by, the Polo Vivo will continue to sell well in 2013. For now, the Polo Vivo remains a popular entry-level choice for new car buyers and is offered either as a hatchback or sedan with a variety of engine options ranging from between 55kW and 77kW. Depending on the model, prices range from R110 500 for the 1.4-litre 2-door hatchback and R157 700 for the 1.6 Trendline sedan.

3. Toyota Etios – 2 204 units

Toyota’ Etios has performed well in February 2013 and has managed to squeeze into third place ahead of the VW Polo. The Etios was launched in South Africa in May 2012 and like the Polo Vivo, it’s a popular choice amongst budget conscious, entry-level car buyers who are looking for value-for-money. The Etios is available as a hatchback or sedan with prices starting at R115 800 for the 1.5 Xi hatchback and R126 700 for the 1.5 Xs sedan.

4. Volkswagen Polo – 2 192

The VW Polo had another good sales month in February and is still considered to be one of South Africa’s best selling passenger cars despite it being in placed fourth in terms of sales. Like the Polo Vivo, The Polo is also offered as either a hatchback or sedan with prices starting from R160 100 for the 1.4-litre Trendline while the range-topping Polo GTI is priced at R280 400.

5. Ford Ranger – 1 784 units

Ford’s Ranger workhorse had an excellent sales month in February 2013 and is considered to be South Africa’s fifth most popular new car in South Africa. The Ford Ranger is available in four different body styles namely the Single Cab, Super Cab, Double Cab and the Wildtrak. Pricing starts at R176 700 for the Single Cab while the Single and Double Cab models are priced at R244 700 and R277 700 respectively. The range-topping Wildtrak model is priced at R428 800.

Audi A3 Sportback g-tron headed for Geneva

The Audi A3 Sportback g-tron will make an appearance at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. The Audi A3 Sportback g-tron uses CO2-neutral Audi e-gas, which will be produced at a power-to-gas plant in Werlte, Germany.

Audi A3 Sportback g-tron shows new tech

Engine Capability

The Audi A3 Sportback g-tron will showcase the CNG drive technology and is equipped with a 1.4 TFSI engine producing 81kW and 200Nm of torque. The model sprints from 0-100km/h in 11 seconds reaching a top speed of 190km/h.

The two fuel tanks stored under the boot floor are made from carbon fibre-reinforced polymer and when full, each tank weighs 27kg and can carry up to 7kg of CNG (Audi e-gas). Fuel consumption is rated at 3.5kg/100km with a total range of 1300km. CO2 emissions are rated at only 30g/km. The Audi A3 Sportback g-tron is fully bivalent, which means its performance figures are identical when operating in CNG or petrol mode.

Features

The inside of the five-door Audi A3 Sportback g-tron features two displays in the instrument cluster that provide the driver with up-to-date information on the fuel level in each of the fuel tanks. Depending on the particular operating mode selected, the driver information system will also display the current fuel consumption.

Two filler necks are placed under a common fuel flap and after refuelling, or when it is cold, the engine is started using petrol and then it is switched over to CNG mode as quickly as possible.

The CO2-neutral e-gas made at the plant in Werlte, Germany, is expected to power 1 500 new Audi A3 Sportback g-tron vehicles for over 15 000km’s every year.