New Volkswagen Golf 7 GTI revving up for Geneva

The new Volkswagen Golf 7 GTI will be making its debut at the Geneva Motor Show on 5 March and will for the first time be available with a choice of two power options.

New Volkswagen Golf 7 GTI improved for the better

The new Volkswagen Golf 7 GTI is fitted with a 2.0-litre turbocharged direct-injection petrol engine that produces 162kW and 350Nm of torque in its basic form. If the performance pack is chosen, power output is increased to 169kW. This engine is mated to either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed dual-clutch DSG transmission. In manual guise, the Golf 7 GTI consumes 6.0-litres/100km and expels 139g/km of CO2. With the DSG transmission, the standard version consumes 6.4-litres/100km while the uprated performance version consumes 6.5-litres/100km. The Golf 7 GTI therefore offers an 18% improvement in fuel economy when compared to the outgoing model. In terms of performance, the new GTI will reach 100km/h in 6.5 seconds before clocking a top speed of 246km/h.

Design Features

The new Volkswagen Golf 7 GTI features red-painted brake calipers, twin-chrome exhaust tailpipes and a lowered sport suspension. The new GTI rolls on 17-inch ‘Brooklyn’ GTI wheels and also features special side skirts, a rear diffuser, smoked LED tailights and LED illumination for the license plate holder.

On the inside, the GTI gets sport seats with a ‘Clark’ tartan pattern, a black headliner and red ambient lighting. A GTI sports steering wheel is also included along with a GTI gear lever and instrument cluster, special trim inserts, stainless-steel pedals and a foot support.

Standard Features

The Golf 7 GTI comes standard with a progressive steering system, ‘Climatronic’ automatic climate control, Park Assist and the latest touchscreen infotainment system. The winter pack includes heatable front seats and customers can choose from three body colours including Tornado Red, Black and Pure White.

The South African launch of the VW Golf 7 GTI will be announced at a later date.

VW Polo Vivo Maxx now available in South Africa

The VW Polo Vivo Maxx is the latest addition to the Polo Vivo range with up-sized features to boot. The Polo Vivo Maxx is manufactured at Volkswagen South Africa’s plant in Uitenhage and is available in the hatchback body version only.

Volkswagen Polo Vivo Maxx is up-sized

The VW Polo Vivo Maxx is powered by a 1.6-litre, four-cylinder engine that produces 77kW of power at 5 250rpm with a maximum torque figure of 155Nm at 3 500rpm. The engine is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission and sprints from 0-100km/h in 10.6 seconds, reaching a top speed of 187km/h and has a CO2 emissions figure of 157g/km. Combined fuel consumption is rated at 6.6-litres/100km.

Exterior and Interior Features

The VW Polo Vivo Maxx is differentiated with a raised suspension, 17-inch ‘Budapest’ alloy wheels, painted exterior mirrors, twin exhaust tailpipes and aluminium roof rails.

The interior features pedals with aluminium inserts, a centre console in titanium paint, front electric windows, manual air-conditioning, a 3-spoke leather steering wheel with a chrome insert and grey stitching, a Radio/CD/MP3/Bluetooth with 4-speakers and floor mats with grey stitching.

Standard safety and security features include driver and front passenger airbags, ABS with EBD as well as an immobiliser and central locking.

VW Polo Vivo Maxx – Price

Volkswagen Polo Vivo Maxx – R160 300

The Polo Vivo Maxx is available with a fully comprehensive 3-year / 120 000km warranty with service intervals at 15 000km. Customers will also benefit from a 6-year anti-corrosion warranty.

Fiat 500 GQ Special Edition headed to Geneva Motor Show

Fiat will be showcasing a special edition Fiat 500 GQ at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show on 5 March. The sporty-looking Fiat 500 GQ was developed in collaboration with Gentlemen’s Quarterly magazine (GQ) and according to Fiat, it is a “Gentleman’s Car, a special series for the metropolitan man of the third millenium.”

Fiat 500 GQ built with men in mind

Engine Capability

The Fiat 500 GQ Special Edition will be offered with a number of engine options including a 0.9-litre TwinAir engine that produces 62kW, a 1.2-litre engine that produces 51kW, a 1.4-litre engine producing 73kW and a 1.3 litre MultiJet diesel which delivers 70kW.

Design Features

While the Fiat 500 GQ is based on the 500S, the exterior differs in that it features two-tone matt grey/carbon black livery. It also comes with chrome plated mirror covers, 16-inch alloy rims with the GQ logo on the pillar, an orange 500 logo on the hub caps, orange brake callipers and a grey aesthetic liner.

Various GQ logos can be spotted around the car, on the dashboard and on the leather seats that have matching stitching. Completing the internal look is the sport pedal unit with aluminium effect and the leather gear knob. The Fiat 500 GQ model will also come in two body styles including a saloon and a convertible.

Citroen DS4 Electro Shot headed for Geneva

The limited edition Citroen DS4 Electro Shot has been added to the line-up for the upcoming Geneva Motor Show. The Citroen DS4 Electro Shot is based on the ‘D Style’ trim and features the classic two-tone finish of the DS line.

Citroen DS4 Electro Shot set to impress

The Citroen DS4 Electro Shot features a gloss black roof and spoiler and rides on 17-inch alloy wheels while the exterior mirrors are finished in chrome. The DS4 is the first Citroen model produced by the customisation program at the Mulhouse production house in France, which produces ‘unique, high quality products with a high level of customisation content’.

Further details will be made available at the Geneva Motor Show on 5 March 2013.

Chrysler 300C V6 Review

The essential gangster rap “large sedan”, is now available with a Fiat sourced V6 diesel engine. Economy-toting rappers unite, the Chrysler 300C V6 is here.

“This is Motor City. And this is what we do” Chrysler’s new marketing direction harkens to the glory and powerhouse that once was Detroit. With that comes the second generation 300 C.What is the essential gangster rap “large sedan”, it is now available with (what all Hip-Hop mega stars have been hoping for) a Fiat sourced V6 diesel engine, tested here.

 Chrysler 300C V6 review by John Beale

300C exterior styling

The new signature Chrysler grille and LED’s dominate the massive flat front end in what always looks like an un-badged Audi to me. Huge chunks of metal and strips of chrome (5m long, and just under 2m wide) cover the Chrysler 300C V6 and wrap around the very 60’s rear and huge 20inch rims. It’s not to everyone’s taste, and it is in your face, take notice and look-at-me chrome and oversized accents make it painfully American.

Performance

Driving the rear wheels is a Fiat sourced V6 diesel, that sadly, is mated to the old 5-speed automatic. I would have loved to see the 8-speed ZF that does justice in the SRT8, but alas. Pushing out 176kW and 550NM at 1800RPM the diesel returned just under 12l/100km (claimed 7.2l/100) in a mixed cycle and 0-100km/h in 7.8 seconds with a top speed of 230km/h. Turbo lag is evident pulling away but there’s massive shove just above 2200RPM. Refined and silent, the V6 does a good job once up at speed. The short gearing and heavy mass means you really do end up taking it easy instead of mashing the throttle, cruise rather than bruise.

Handling and Ride

Considering those 20inch polished rims and hunkered down firm suspension I was expecting the Chrysler 300C V6 to crash over every bump. None of that. The suspension is compliant without wafting with a solid feel and is incredibly well insulated. However, if you do push on, the weight really comes into play and you can feel it shifting fore and aft which can unsettle the ride a bit. It isn’t light on its feet and steering feel can be a bit too unnatural at times, but again, this is more about luxury than sportiness.

Interior and features

Huge improvements to the interior include one of the largest touch screens with U-Connect (Voice activated Bluetooth) and integrated Garmin navigation. The system is touch screen and easy to operate housing everything from seat heating and cooling functions to vehicle settings. Bright blue dials dominate the interior with a welcome updated centre screen for vehicle info.

Novel touch is the cup-holders that both heat and cool! The Safety Tech Package is available on the Luxury Series vehicles and this includes Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and Rear Cross Path Detection (RCP). The expected safety features of airbags, ABS and Electric Stability Control are all there. Reverse camera and front and rear Park Distance Control is standard, which really helps when parking the barge. The 800W sound system has excellent reproduction, but is not the top spec system in the 300C.

Although it is a luxurious interior with nappa leather wrapped (heated) steering wheel and comfortable electrically adjustable seating, there is still too many Mercedes E-class carry over bits in my view. Fake wood and plastic lids are also not up to the quality of the rest of the cabin or competition. That said it does still give the feeling of luxury.

Chrysler 300C V6 – Conclusion

It is a big burly cruiser, and a huge leap over the previous generation, but still far off from the German competition when it comes to quality and refinement and the amount of E-Class parts used in the Chrysler 300 C V6 isn’t a bad thing. At the price, it’s good value considering all the standard equipment on offer.

The looks certainly aren’t for everyone, but if it fills your pimp cup and you appreciate rollin’ instead of ballin’ and sheer presence, then this is the luxury sedan for you.

Chrysler 300C V6 – Price

Chrysler 300C V6 Turbodiesel – R539 990

Volkswagen XL1 consumes only 0.9 litres per 100km

Volkswagen will be showcasing the XL1 at the upcoming 2013 Geneva Motor Show. The Volkswagen XL1 is the world’s most fuel-efficient production car with a fuel consumption figure of only 0.9-litres/100km.

Volkswagen XL1 is a futuristic car built for today

The Volkswagen XL1’s outstanding performance is thanks to its plug-in hybrid system that consists of a two-cylinder, 35kW TDI engine, a 20kW E-motor, a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox and a lithium-ion battery which makes it possible for the XL1 to emit CO2 emissions of 21g/km and maintain a fuel consumption figure of 0.9-litres/100km. The XL1 can accelerate from 0-100km/h in 12.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 160km/h. The XL1 can also operate in all-electric mode with a range of 50km while emitting zero emissions.

Conceptually, the Volkswagen XL1 represents the third evolutionary stage of Volkswagen’s 1-litre car strategy. Despite the tremendous efficiency of the XL1, developers successfully came up with a body concept, which delivers more everyday utility than the two previous prototypes.

In the XL1, two occupants can sit slightly offset, side by side as in a conventional vehicle as opposed to the 2002/2009 L1 model, which had the driver and passenger sit in a tandem arrangement for optimal aerodynamics. The XL1 is 3.888m long, 1.665m wide and only 1.153m tall, which is some 129mm lower than a Porsche Boxster, giving the XL1 a striking appearance on the road.

Further details will be revealed at the Geneva Motor Show on 5 March 2013.

Chevrolet Trailblazer 4×4 Review

In terms of size, the Chevrolet Trailblazer is one of the biggest vehicles on sale today. Read the review to see how this newcomer fared after an extended test period.

Chevrolet Trailblazer 4×4 review by David Taylor

Breaking into the Toyota-dominated market

The large family-orientated seven seat offroad market has been pretty much cornered by the legendary Toyota Fortuner. While there’s actually nothing wrong with the Fortuner in terms of specification and abilities, this segment does feel like it needs a fresh new face. General Motors believe that its new Chevrolet Trailblazer is the perfect tool to take on the established opposition and is actively marketing it against Toyota.

The Trailblazer is huge

Right, first thing you’ll notice is its size. Not only does it boast aggressive and brawny looks, but it is actually physically big. The size only becomes an issue in the tightest of parking spots, where a deft touch is needed to parallel park.

Big power to match the big looks

Underneath that big bonnet is a 3.6-litre V6. Despite the Chevrolet Trailblazer being a very stereotypical American-style big SUV, there is no big gas-guzzling V8 engine. The V6, however, is perfectly up to the task and boasts a power output of 176kW, while torque is rated at 329Nm. The engine also happens to sound quite muscular and despite the Trailblazer’s size, you’re able to get to the national highway speed limit without straining the engine. The downside is that if you have a heavy foot, you’re going to need to visit the petrol station often. If you’re really worried about fuel consumption, there’s a diesel engine in the range but on a day-to-day basis, you’ll see about 13L/100km.

Seriously strong and capable offroader

Much like most Chevrolet products, the Trailblazer is a good cruiser. Put the gearbox in drive, turn the music up and sit back. Despite being competent on tar, the Trailblazer’s true strength is off the beaten track. Thanks to a nifty dial on the centre console, you’re able to select various 4×4 options such as high-range and low-range. Hill descent control is also a useful thing to have when navigating steep dunes.

Huge space available inside the cabin

The Chevrolet Trailblazer’ interior is interesting to note as you’ll notice that the materials used in its assembly aren’t of the highest quality, but when you consider what the vehicle will be used for, you’ll realise that you actually want the longer-lasting and more durable materials. There’s space galore inside. Not only does it seven seven adults but the third row of seats folds neatly away, allowing the boot’s dimensions to increase.

All the basic features are there

From the driver’s seat, the Trailblazer’s dashboard looks ordinary. Upon closer inspection, you’ll see that pretty much everything you need is close at hand. There’s cruise control, Bluetooth phone pairing integrated into the radio, CD player, an electronically-adjustable driver’s seat and most importantly for a vehicle of this size, rear park distance control. There are also no less than 11 cup holders in the cabin! It’s safe too and boasts six airbags dotted around the interior.

Chevrolet Trailblazer – Conclusion

It’s a beast both on- and off-road, is practical, comfortable and not badly priced at R486 700. I only had two gripes. The gearbox was a little sluggish to respond, meaning that when you wanted to overtake someone on the highway, some planning was required otherwise you wouldn’t have power on demand. Putting the ‘box into manual override solves this easily. My second gripe is the mini USB port. I’ve never seen one used before and I think its placement is odd. Those two things aside, I think the Chevrolet Trailblazer certainly has a lot to offer this segment and I think if current sales are to go by, Toyota should be a little concerned.

Chevrolet Trailblazer – Price

Chevrolet Trailblazer 4×4 LTZ Auto – R476 900

  • Why you should: Seats seven, comfortable, impressive offroader, tough interior, powerful engine
  • Why you shouldn’t: V6 engine is thirsty, sluggish gearbox
  • It would be better if: the mini USB was replaced by a proper USB, automatic gearbox was a little bit more responsive.
  • View the Chevrolet Trailblazer: New / Used
  • Competitors worth checking out: Toyota Fortuner, Mitsubishi Pajero Sport

Fiat Qubo arrives in South Africa

The Fiat Qubo has been introduced to South Africa and is based on a ‘free space’ philosophy and offers a practical and economical form of mobility. The Fiat Qubo MPV is highly functional and features two sliding rear doors as well as a flexible interior with ample space for luggage and other objects.

Fiat Qubo offers flexibility and versatility

Engine Capability

The new Fiat Qubo is powered with a choice of either a 1.3-litre Multijet turbo-diesel engine or a 1.4-litre petrol derivative. The 1.3-litre Multijet turbo-diesel engine produces 55kW at 4 000rpm with a maximum torque figure of 190Nm available from 1 750Nm. This variant has a top speed of 155km/h with a combined cycle fuel consumption figure of 4.6-litres/100km. The 1.4-litre petrol engine produces 54kW at 5 200rpm with a maximum torque figure of 118Nm at 2 600 rpm. This variant also reaches a top speed of 155km/h but has a combined fuel consumption figure of 7.0-litres/100km. Both engines are are mated to a 5-speed manual transmission.

Exterior and Interior Design Features

The Fiat Qubo features a bold and solid appearance standing 3.96m long, 1.72m tall and 1.68m wide. The front bumper matches the body colour of the Fiat Qubo which also features body side moulding for added protection. The head and tail lights feature transparencies and chromium plating and are high-mounted for protection.

On the inside, a total of 16 different seating combinations offer versatility and allow customers to fully exploit the space available. With the seats in their normal upright position, the boot offers 330-litres of space and 650-litres if measured to the roof of the vehicle. With the rear seats removed and the front passenger seat folded down, space increases dramatically to 2 500-litres. The symmetrical and modular T-shaped dashboard is home to all the controls and instrumentation, all at the driver’s fingertips. A glove box, central tunnel and door panels offer additional storage while an armrest provides comfort.

The Fiat Qubo is fitted with the standard Blue&Me Bluetooth technology hands-free system with steering wheel mounted controls, MP3 file reader with a USB port. The Qubo is available in a range of 10 exterior colours including four pastel colours and six metallic colours.

In terms of safety, the Fiat Qubo is fitted with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake-Force Distribution (EBD), 3-point seat belts with tensioners, power steering and front and side airbags.

Fiat Qubo – Price

Model Price
Fiat Qubo 1.3 diesel R199 990
Fiat Qubo 1.4 petrol R177 990

The price includes a standard 3-year / 100 000km warranty and maintenance plan.

New Subaru Forester launched in South Africa

The new Subaru Forester is now available in South Africa. The new Subaru Forester is available with a choice of five models and fitted with the latest generation Boxer engines and equipped with innovative technologies. The new Forester is considered to be the ‘smartest, safest and most efficient Forester to date’, according to Subaru.

New Subaru Forester – Specifications and Features

Engine Capability

The entry-level 2.0 X is powered by a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder Boxer engine that produces 110kW and 198Nm of torque. Fuel consumption for this engine is rated at 7.2-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 168g/km. This engine is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox.

A 2.5 -litre Boxer engine is available across the X, XS and XS Premium trim levels and produces 126kW and 235Nm of torque. All the 2.5-litre models feature Lineartronic CVT transmission which include X-Mode and the two-mode SI-Drive. Combined fuel consumption for this unit is 8.1-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 187g/km.

The range-topping 2.0 XT Lineartronic is powered by a direct injection turbocharged four-cylinder Boxer petrol engine that produces 177kW and 350Nm of torque . Combined fuel consumption is rated at 8.5-litres/100km with a carbon emissions figure of 197g/km. The new Subaru Forester also features the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system which contributes to enhanced grip in all driving conditions, whether it be on or off the road.

Exterior and Interior Styling Features

The newly sculpted front-end is both sporty and rugged looking with the A-pillar sitting 200mm further forward when compared to the previous generation. The sleek and elegant overall design is complemented with 17-inch or 18-inch wheel designs, prominent wheel arches and a higher ride height which asserts the Forester’s presence on the road. The new Subaru Forester is available with a choice of eight colours.

The interior has been restyled to incorporate sophisticated shapes and soft-touch materials with silver accents used extensively throughout the interior for a more modern feel. The seating has been redesigned to offer maximum comfort and the raised seating position offers enhanced all-round visibility. With a wheelbase of 2.64m, the Forester offers a comfortable and spacious interior for the whole family.

Safety Features

The new Subaru Forester has been awarded a five-star safety rating from the Australian ANCAP, as well as by Euro NCAP and scored the highest possible marks for SUVs in the 2012 Euro NCAP crash tests. Some notable safety features include Subaru’s Ring-Shaped Reinforcement, a reversing camera, Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), seven airbags and a collapsible brake pedal and steering column. Other safety features include ISOFIX child seat mounts with tether anchors, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Limited Slip Device (LSD) and Brake Assist (BA).

New Subaru Forester – Price

Model Price
Subaru Forester 2.0 X 6-speed manual R329 000
Subaru Forester 2.5 X Lineartronic CVT R359 000
Subaru Forester 2.5 XS Lineartronic CVT R389 000
Subaru Forester 2.5 XS Premium Lineartronic CVT R429 000
Subaru Forester XT Lineartronic CVT R529 000

Prices include a 3-year / 75 000km Maintenance Plan, a 3-year / 100 000km warranty and Subaru Assist. Various extension packages are also available.

Fiat Abarth Fuoriserie models to debut in Geneva

Four Fiat Abarth Fuoriserie models and the Punto SuperSport model will be shown at next month’s Geneva Motor Show which starts on 5 March. The 695 Fuori line-up will comprise the Scorpione, Record, Black Diamond and Hype series, all based on the Abarth 500 Custom program.

Fiat Abarth Fuoriserie extends personalisation options

The range of personalisation options has been extended through performance tuning kits, brake systems, exhaust systems and an extensive array of accessories, new colours and materials for exterior and interior features. Customers will also be able to choose from hand-crafted painted and polished roof and bonnet livery.

Abarth will also showcase the Punto SuperSport hatchback fitted with a 1.4-litre MultiAir engine delivering 132kW of power with a torque figure of 270Nm and mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. Travelling from 0-100km/h in 7.5 seconds, the car reaches a top speed of 216 km/h.

Further details will be communicated when the Geneva Motor Show commences on 5 March 2013.