New Ford Fiesta in South Africa

The new Ford Fiesta is now available in South Africa and features new styling and incorporates a range of technology including its 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine, Ford SYNC in-car connectivity system and Ford’s MyKey system. The new Ford Fiesta is available with a choice of three engine derivatives and three specification grades while a selection of Option Packs are available for further personalisation.

New Ford Fiesta gets new look and tech

Engine Capability

The Ford Fiesta’s three-cylinder, 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine delivers 92kW and 170Nm of torque while returning an impressive combined fuel consumption figure of 4.3-litres/100km and CO2 emissions of only 99g/km. This engine also features Auto Stop-Start and Smart Regenerative Charging. Apart from the EcoBoost engine, Ford is still offering the 71kW/125Nm 1.4-litre engine and the 70kW/200Nm 1.6-litre TDCI engine for the new Fiesta. The 1.4-litre engine consumes 5.7-litres/100km while the 1.6-litre unit consumes 3.6-litres/100km.

Exterior and Interior Design Features

The new Ford Fiesta features a large trapezoidal front grille that’s complemented with laser-cut headlamps with LED daytime running lights and a power dome bonnet. The Fiesta comes with a choice of 12 exterior colours including the new Copper Pulse, Hot Magenta and Candy Blue.

On the inside, the upper instrument panel has a high-gloss finish which flows into the lower console and is replicated in the door panels. Satin-chrome detailing adorns the interior while Ford’s signature Ice Blue lighting illuminates dials, switches and displays. Contact point finishes have also been improved and the electric window switches and door handles have been relocated to improve ergonomics. A central arm-rest and larger door pockets provide additional storage options.

Technology Features

The new Ford Fiesta is fitted with SYNC, allowing drivers to connect with digital media devices and Bluetooth enabled mobile phones via voice commands and steering mounted controls. The Ford MyKey system is a new feature and enables parents to encourage safer driving by limiting their children’s risk at the wheel. Parents can pre-determine maximum speeds and audio volume limits. The system also mutes the audio until seat belts are fastened and ensures that driver aids and safety systems cannot be deactivated.

Ford Marketing Manager, Gavin Golightly said, “This car was built for the digital generation,” says Golightly. “With Bluetooth connectivity and MP3 capabilities, tech-savvy people who use social media to be constantly connected with the world around them won’t be slowed down when they get in this car.

Safety Features

The new Ford Fiesta comes with comprehensive safety features which include Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) fitted standard across the range. Hill Start Assist is offered as an option on the Trend derivatives and is fitted as standard on the Titanium models. Seven airbags including dual front, side, curtain and a driver’s knee airbag are included. The new Ford Fiesta has also earned a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating.

New Ford Fiesta – Price

Model Price
Ford Fiesta 1.4 Ambiente R164 400
Ford Fiesta 1.6 TDCi Ambiente R178 400
Ford Fiesta 1.4 Trend R187 600
Ford Fiesta 1.6 TDCi Trend R201 400
Ford Fiesta 1.0 EcoBoost Trend R211 200
Ford Fiesta EcoBoost Titanium R231 500

The new Ford Fiesta Fiesta is available with a fully comprehensive 4-year / 120 000km warranty and 4-year / 60 000km service plan. Service intervals are staggered at 20 000km intervals for the petrol derivative and 15 000km for the diesel models. Customers will also benefit from 3-years of Roadside Assistance and a 5-year corrosion warranty.

Datsun returning to South Africa in 2014

Nissan South Africa has announced that the Datsun brand, which was phased out in 1981, will make its return to South Africa with the first passenger vehicle expected for launch at the end of 2014.

“The return of Datsun is integral to our expansion in fast-growing markets where there is a mushrooming upwardly mobile segment,” said Vincent Cobee, corporate vice president at Nissan Motor Co. Ltd. He added, “Datsun’s key values, accessible, reliable and modern, are designed to accommodate the needs and aspirations of this target group, just as it did for similarly optimistic customers in Japan, America and a large part of the world during most of the 20th century.”

The Datsun Brand

The return of the Datsun brand follows a decision made in 2010 to re-introduce the brand as part of the company’s ambitious Nissan Power 88 mid-term plan to achieve 8% of the global market share and operating profit by 2016.

Also, Datsun is to be re-established with a strong independent brand identity, alongside the Nissan and Infiniti brands. Cobee further explained, “Our aim is to deliver new and exciting products that meet local customer needs assured by global Japanese Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) expertise and technology.”

The Datsun logo

The Datsun logo embodies the brands styling identity and the inner portion of the logo preserves the essence of the original Datsun logo with a blue bar striking through the rising sun. This reflects the founding spirit of ‘sincerity leads to success’ said Cobee.

He continues, “The rising sun represents the energy of rising towards a better tomorrow and the striking blue bar represents pure integrity built into providing innovative solutions. The outer shape represents the edge and modernity of the new Datsun brand. The blue brand colour is embedded in our heritage which is rooted in sincerity and trustworthiness.”

The Datsun brand will also be introduced in India, Indonesia and Russia in 2014.

2014 Citroen C3 to debut at Geneva Motor Show

The face-lifted 2014 Citroen C3 will make its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show in early March. The C3 was launched in 2002 and almost 3-million units have been sold since. The revised 2014 Citroen C3 now features PureTech petrol engines that offer a 15% power increase while reducing fuel consumption by 25%.

2014 Citroen C3 is frugal urban runaround

Engine Capability

The 2014 Citroen C3 is powered by Citroen’s new generation PureTech three-cylinder petrol engines with either a 1.0-litre or 1.2-litre capacity. The VTi 68 and VTi 82 PureTech engines exhibit low fuel consumption between 4.5-litres/100km and 4.3-litres/100km. CO2 emissions are between 99 and 104g/km. A VTi engine is also available with a manual or automatic gearbox.

Additionally, the 2014 Citroen C3 is to be offered with four diesel engines in the UK including the HDi 70, e-HDi 70, HDi 90 and e-HDi 115. Three of them include micro-hybrid e-HDi technology with an efficient Stop & Start system which helps reduce CO2 emissions to 87g/km.

Exterior Styling Features

The C3’s front-end features updated chevrons and bumper mounted LED daytime running lights. Additional features include new taillight clusters combined with new reflectors set underneath the rear bumper. Customers can choose between nine exterior colours including the new Ink blue body paint.

Interior Styling Features

The interior features chrome detailing and a thermo-coated soft-touch dashboard which can be underlined with matt-black, warm brown or Moondust grey dashboard strips.

The instrument cluster is backlit in white for a contemporary look and easier-to-read driving information. The new 2014 Citroen C3 boasts 300-litres of boot space. The central console, glove box and central armrest offer additional storage compartments.

Visibility is enhanced with the unique Zenith windscreen, the reversing camera and parking sensors.The Zenith windscreen increases the upward field of vision for front passengers by 80-degrees and combines with ultra-slim pillars to give a panoramic view of the road ahead. The screen also provides solar protection at the top which gradually merges into clear glass for an optimum field of vision.

Convenience is increased by features such as the RD4 MP3 audio system, Connecting Box (Bluetooth hands-free kit, jack plug and USB socket), eMyWay navigation and a powerful Hi-Fi System.

The 2014 Citroen C3 can be expected in South Africa later in 2013.

Audi A3 e-tron to make Geneva debut

The Audi A3 e-tron plug-in hybrid will be shown at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show and according to Audi, it will give the world a realistic glimpse into the future of mobility.

Audi A3 e-tron embraces electric mobility

Engine Capability

The highly efficient five-door plug-in hybrid guarantees sporty performance with a power output of 150kW and a maximum torque figure of 350Nm. The Audi A3 e-tron sprints from zero to 100km/h in 7.6 seconds and can reach a top speed of 222km/h.

Fuel consumption is rated at 1.5-litres/100km with CO2 emissions rated at only 35g/km. In electric mode, the Audi A3 e-tron reaches a top speed of 130km/h and has a maximum range of 50km. The disc-shaped electric motor is mated to a newly designed 6-speed e-S tronic which transfers power to the front wheels.

The combustion engine is a modified 1.4 TFSI that delivers 110kW while the clutch links the engine to an electric motor with an output of 75kW. The Audi A3 e-tron can be driven with just the combustion engine, electric motor or both.

The Geneva Motor Show starts on 5 March 2013.

2013 Chevrolet Spark range beefed up

The 2013 Chevrolet Spark range has been updated and now includes a new top-of-the-range ‘LT’ specification level as well as the addition of a urban delivery solution called the Spark Pronto. The Spark has also been refreshed with a number of exterior and interior styling revisions for 2013.

More choice for 2013 Chevrolet Spark range

Engine Capability

All 2013 Chevrolet Spark models are powered by a 1.2-litre, four cylinder petrol engine that is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. Maximum power output is rated at 60kW at 6 400rpm with a maximum torque figure of 108Nm available at 4 800rpm. Average fuel consumption is rated at 5.4-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 129g/km.

Improved Design Features

The new 2013 Chevrolet Spark features a new front fascia, rocker mouldings, a larger radiator grille, revised headlights and the side mirrors now incorporate turn signals. A decorative chrome strip is found on the beltline and 14-inch or 15-inch alloy wheels are available for the Spark LT.

The rear tail-lights have been restyled and a chrome strip now features on the tailgate lift handle. The rear bumper has also been restyled and now includes a triangular chromed tailpipe. The ‘LS’ and ‘LT’ models feature a large roof spoiler with a high-mounted stop-light as standard. The styling of the Spark ‘LT’ can be enhanced with the optional Sports Style Decal kit available in white, silver and black. The kit includes components for the hood, roof panel, liftgate and rear roof spoiler.

Interior Features

On the inside, the 2013 Chevrolet Spark is now offered with new fabric materials and designs. Some of the controls have been re-positioned in the centre stack to enhance ergonomics and styling. The interior trim colour is matched with the exterior and customers have a choice of four trim variations. The Spark offers 170-litres of luggage space and the 60/40 split-folding seats offer additional space when required. Additional storage includes cup holders in the centre console, storage pockets in the front doors with bottle holders as well as seatback pockets for rear-seat passengers.

The Chevrolet Spark Pronto

The new Chevrolet Spark Pronto is a new addition to the Spark range and serves as a light urban delivery vehicle. The Spark Pronto is based on the Spark passenger vehicle platform and offers a 275kg payload with 876-litres of space. Roof rails are standard and facilitate the fitting of a roof rack. As with other Spark models, the Pronto is fitted with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) as standard. The Spark Pronto is fitted with the same engine found on the other Spark models with an average fuel consumption figure of 5.4-litres/100km.

2013 Chevrolet Spark – Price

Model Price
Chevrolet Spark 1.2 Campus R106 100
Chevrolet Spark 1.2 R113 600
Chevrolet Spark 1.2 LS R123 000
Chevrolet Spark 1.2 LT R136 500
Chevrolet Spark Pronto Van R101 500

All models include a 5-year/120 000km warranty with Roadside Assistance for the full warranty period.

2013 Nissan GT-R available in South Africa

The high performance 2013 Nissan GT-R has been revamped and is now available in South Africa. Nissan technicians have used data collected at the famous Nurburgring 24-Hour endurance race to sharpen some of the GT-R’s finer details to improve its handling, engine characteristics and chassis.

Updated 2013 Nissan GT-R rumbles into SA

Engine Capability

The 2013 Nissan GT-R retains it’s twin turbocharged 3.8 litre V6 engine that delivers an 397kW and 628Nm of torque. However, the engine now features new high-output injectors which allow for greater control of fuel injection and improvements to its responsiveness in the mid and upper rev ranges have been achieved. A specially-developed orifice for the turbocharger’s bypass relief valve has been included to suppress the rapid decrease in forced induction air pressure to sustain acceleration at high rpm. A new baffle plate in the oil pan stabilises oil pressure during high performance driving.

Improved Handling

The GT-R’s centre of gravity has been lowered and the shock absorber and front stabiliser specifications have been modified. The front suspension now features cam bolts that improve camber accuracy and alignment setting maintainability. The torque that goes from the driveshaft to the hub bearings has been increased to improve reliability in high-stress situations like track driving.

Other improved features include driving stability and steering response. Reinforcements have been added at two locations, in the dash panel bar and instrument panel resulting in increased body rigidity and suspension performance.

Interior Styling Features

The 2013 Nissan GT-R features new stitching and thicker seams on the instrument panel and door trim. A new interior package includes a two-tone combination of Amber Red and Black Leather which adds style to the cabin. The front seats are now covered in genuine hand stitched semi-aniline leather.

The 2013 Black Edition now features a new red-and-black combination leather steering wheel for increased sporty flair and convenient side knobs on the sides of both front seats improve usability from the rear when the seatbacks are pushed forwards.

2013 Nissan GT-R Track Pack – Features

Nissan South Africa has tailored the Track Pack for a unique South African package. This package includes exclusive carbon fibre Recaro front bucket seats with high-rigidity carbon composite shells designed by chief engineer of the GT-R project, Kazutoshi Mizuno. The GT-R’s rear seats are also removed with the Track Pack and replaced with quilted cloth, for a more track-focused interior.

The exterior is fitted with 20-inch forged aluminium RAYS wheels in black quartz chrome finish. The titanium muffler has been designed to secure high temperature strength and creep characteristics and is able to endure exhaust gas temperatures which exceed 1 000°C.

Cooling enhancements have also been derived through the use of high-class titanium alloy and the addition of cooling fins, under-cover ducts and a reduction in plate thickness in certain areas of the muffler. Also part of the Track Pack is a new carbon fibre front splitter to improve aerodynamic efficiency, as well as a new air guide to aid in cooling the brakes. The revised suspension setup is the most important aspect of the Track Pack and affords the GT-R with less body roll during high-speed cornering but still provides a comfortable ride in a city environment thanks to its aluminium dividing pistons within the shock absorbers.

2013 Nissan GT-R – Price

Model Price
Nissan GT-R Premium Edition R1 398 200
Nissan GT-R Premium Edition (Amber interior) R1 448 200
Nissan GT-R Black Edition R1 448 200
Nissan GT-R Track Pack R1 743 700

The 2013 Nissan GT-R comes standard with a 3-year/50 000 km service plan and a 3-year/ 100 000 km warranty.

2013 Toyota Auris Touring Sports details revealed

Details of the 2013 Toyota Auris Touring Sports has been released which is the first full hybrid estate car in the family/compact car segment. Being the first model in its class to offer the choice of a full hybrid powertrain, the model marks further diversification of Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive Technology. The Toyota Auris Touring Sports will not be available in South Africa.

2013 Toyota Auris Touring Sports unites form and function

Engine Capability

The 2013 Toyota Auris Touring Sports will be available in Europe with the 1.33-litre Dual VVT-i engine as well as the 1.6-litre Valvematic and the 1.4 litre D-4D diesel engine. The hybrid version uses a 1.8-litre VVT-i engine coupled with an electric motor that together produces 100kW. Acceleration to 100 km/h is achieved in 10.9 seconds, before reaching a top speed of 180 km/h. CO2 emissions for the hybrid version is rated at 86g/km.

Styling Features

The 2013 Toyota Auris Touring Sports has same the 2.6m wheelbase as the hatchback version but is 285mm longer which contributes to an increase in load space. With the seats in position, load space is at 530-litres. With the seats folded down, load capacity increases dramatically to 1 658-litres. The Auris Touring Sports offers better functionality by means of Toyota’s one-touch Easy-Flat folding rear seat system, a dual level loadspace floor, a two-way tonneau cover , a roller-type luggage net, shopping bag hooks, aluminium roof rails and a 12V power outlet in the boot.

The 2013 Toyota Auris Touring Sports still shares the same elements as the hatchback but with emphasis placed on the car’s width and low stance with the shape and arrangement of the lower grille, front bumper and fog lights created by the narrower upper grille and headlamp units.

Other features include a raked windscreen which flows into an extended roofline with aluminium roof rails and integral rear spoiler. Some versions will be available with a skyview panoramic roof which will increase light and space in the interior.
The rear-end features a revised bumper and tailgate design which includes a ‘floating’ chrome-finished spoiler.

Volvo 60 Range Updated

Volvo has announced that major changes will be made to Volvo 60 range which include the S60, V60 and XC60. The newly revised models will be showcased at the Geneva Motor Show on 5 March 2013 and can be expected in South Africa late in 2013.

New Volvo 60 Range – Features

The upgraded Volvo 60 range will feature new and improved technology such as the Sensus Connected Touch infotainment system with internet connectivity and the adaptive digital display with a TFT screen. This screen allows the driver to choose between three different themes including Elegance, Eco and Performance – which changes the colour and layout of the background.

All models in the Volvo 60 range will have redesigned front fascias. The grilles will be wider with square/rectangle headlights and the new LED running lights are mounted in the lower air intakes on the S60 and V60. The rear will feature integrated tailpipes and updated LED light pipes in the taillights.

Other new features will include heated windshields, Active High Beam Control for the headlights, paddle shifters and IntelliSafe active safety systems.

Volvo 60 Range – Updates

The Volvo S60

The S60 will feature upgrades such as new upholstery colours, new wood inlays, a new headliner and the silk metal frames around the air vents and light controls.

“We’ve really increased the S60’s road presence with a new front design. The more focused and determined-looking headlamps help create this new, expressive ‘face’. We were thinking of a wolf’s eyes when we designed them,” explains Fedde Talsma, Design Director, Exterior. He adds: “We’ve emphasised the S60’s horizontal lines at both the front and rear. Together with details such as a wider grille, daylight running lights and a new LED light guide on the tail lamps, they give the S60 a striking, squat presence. The car has a beauty that is rooted in the natural world. The clean surfaces and contours give it a very Scandinavian feel.”

An array of chassis settings will offer a dynamic driving experience. The model will come in a choice of four chassis types including Touring, Dynamic, Four-C and Lower Sport Chassis.

The Volvo V60

The new Volvo V60 features pronounced horizontal lines that emphasise the coupe-like silhouhette of the vehicle. The V60 offers versastility in the form of its
intelligent seating. The rear seats can be folded in three 40/20/40 segments with the rear load space totalling 430-litres. Two-stage integrated booster cushions provide a comfortable and safe ride ride height for children aged 3-years-old and upwards.

The Volvo XC60

The XC60 will benefit from a newly shaped hood and redesigned headlights. Black trim has been removed and the vehicle is now all one body colour.

The XC60 interior has been updated with wood inlays, a new headliner, textile B-pillars and silk metal frames around the air vents and light controls. Corner Traction Control is fitted as standard and helps avoid understeer by applying the correct amount of brake force to the inner wheels while powering the outer wheels when accelarating out of a corner. The XC60 also features all-wheel drive and optional Hill Descent Control.

Ferrari sales in 2012 best in 66 years

Ferrari has announced that 2012 was its best year in its 66 year history with global record Ferrari sales totalling a profit of 2.433 billion euro, with a trading profit of 350 million euro and net profits coming in at 244 million euro.

“We are all enormously proud of ending the year with these kinds of results despite the unfavourable economic backdrop in many European nations, and the distinctly hostile one in Italy,” said Chairman Luca di Montezemolo.

“The credit for this goes to the men and women in Ferrari, the strength of the brand, a very complete and highly innovative range, and our gradual expansion into automotive markets worldwide,” he added.

Staggering Ferrari sales records

Over the course of 2012, Ferrari sold 7 318 cars with an increase of 4.5% from 2011 where 7 195 cars were sold with revenue reaching 2.433 billion euro.

The U.S. was top of the list as the biggest market, with Ferrari sales up by 15% and exceeding the 2 000 car mark for the first time. Ferrari sales in Britain rose by 20% while China, Hong Kong and Taiwan made up the second largest market with sales up by 4% at 784 cars.

Germany grew 8.2% to 750 cars, while sales in the UK grew 20.4% to 673 cars and the Middle East and Africa continued with an increase of 4.5% with deliveries of cars rising to 556. In Italy, despite there being a 60% drop in sales, Ferrari ended the year with 318 cars delivered to dealerships.

Results delivered by brand related activities in Retail, Licensing and e-commerce which underwent reorganisation in 2012 also showed outstanding results with a 40% increase in operating margin to over 50 million euro.

2014 Range Rover gets new V6 engine

Following the sales success of the 2013 Range Rover, the 2014 Range Rover will be available with the choice of a new supercharged V6 engine that will complement the current V8 offering. Both engines are mated to an 8-speed ZF 8HP70 automatic transmission with an Intelligent Stop/Start System fitted as standard which reduces emissions and saves fuel.

New turbocharged V6 for 2014 Range Rover

The new supercharged 3.0-litre V6 engine available for the 2014 Range Rover will produce 254kW and will be offered alongside the supercharged 5.0-litre V8. Acceleration to 100km/h will take approximately 7.1 seconds with the new V6 engine.

The new engine has been developed to support a full breadth of capability including extreme off-road tilt angles of up to 45 degrees, a wading depth of 900mm and a towing capacity of up to 3 500kg.

When coupled with the high-strength, lightweight aluminium structure of the 2014 Range Rover, the new engine further enhances efficiency gains. The 2014 Range Rover weighs 318kg less than the previous generation Range Rover.