Suzuki Swift Sport Review in South Africa

The Suzuki Swift Sport is the flagship in the Swift range and is a completely different animal when compared to its lesser siblings. The base model Swift is an excellent city car as it offers value-for-money, decent specification as well as excellent reliability. However, as great as the Swift is, there is one problem as it doesn’t really offer anything in the excitement department.

Suzuki Swift Sport Review by David Taylor

Mature successor to the original pocket rocket

Enter the Suzuki Swift Sport – a grown-up go kart for the road. In a world of expensive turbo hot hatchbacks, having fun while driving is becoming rather difficult. These days, you would have to spend around R300, 000 for a half decent sports car or hot hatch. The Suzuki Swift breaks that mould by offering bang-for-buck performance in a simple and affordable package. The original Sport was a hoot to drive but was let down by a combination of two doors, which was impractical as well as a five-speed gearbox which made highway cruising a noisy affair.

The Suzuki Swift Sport looks like an extra from the Fast and The Furious franchise

The Suzuki Swift Sport looks vastly more aggressive than the standard Swift. With a wicked yellow paintjob, big wing on the boot, bodykit, sporty alloy wheels and twin exhaust pipes, the Swift Sport looks like something out of an arcade racing game. It attracts lots of attention and fortunately it has the go to match the show.

Old-school performance meets modern day economy

Underneath the bonnet of the racy Suzuki Swift Sport is a 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine. This engine, thanks to some special tuning, delivers 100kW and 160Nm. In a small car that doesn’t weigh much, this amount of power is rather good fun. The engine loves to be revved and comes alive if you let the revs climb past the 4,000 mark. On paper, the Swift Sport can hit 100km/h in under 9 seconds. Even though it’s sporty, it’s surprisingly light on fuel and a figure of 6.8L/100km after a week of rigourous driving was a great surprise.

Makes you feel like a driving god

Its real forte is the ability is to fly though mountain passes at speed thanks to its precise, sporty six-speed gearbox and racing suspension. The drawback of a racing suspension is that it tends to be hard on a day-to-day basis, but Suzuki has struck a perfect balance between sportiness and comfort. This is a car that makes you feel like a racing driver and when you get it right, it offers one of best driving experiences this side of a supercar.

The Swift comes with impressive levels of standard equipment

The Suzuki Swift Sport costs R213,000 – a bargain when you consider the fun factor and the specification. For a city car, the Sport comes loaded with kit. There are xenon headlights, climate control, keyless entry, USB/iPod connectivity and racing bucket seats. It’s safe too, thanks to excellent brakes, stability control and airbags for driver and passenger.

Suzuki Swift Sport – Conclusion

The Suzuki Swift Sport perfectly underlines the fact that you shouldn’t be spending close on half a million Rand if you want a machine that scythes through highway passes like a super car. Not only does it make you feel like a racing driver, it also offers all the comfort and features of a decent B-segment runabout.

Suzuki Swift Sport – Price

Suzuki Swift Sport price as tested: R213,000

  • Why you should: Brilliant value for a performance vehicle, handles like a go-kart, great engine, loads of kit, looks fantastic especially in yellow.
  • Why you shouldn’t: Nothing. Yet another Suzuki scores very highly. Yes, it really is that yellow.
  • It would be better if: the boot was a little bigger, I could afford one right now.
  • View the Suzuki Swift Sport: New / Used
  • Competitors worth checking out: Fiat Abarth, Renault Twingo Gordini, Citroen DS3, Mini Cooper

Opel Astra OPC launched in South Africa

GM South Africa has added the Opel Astra OPC, the most powerful production Astra ever produced, to its passenger vehicle range in South Africa. The new Astra OPC joins the Corsa OPC in Opel’s small and compact performance hatchback segments.

Opel Astra OPC – Specifications and Features

Engine Capability

The latest model from the Opel Performance Centre (OPC) is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged direct injection engine that generates 206kW at 5 500rpm with a maximum torque figure of 400Nm at between 2 500 and 4 500rpm. The Opel Astra OPC runs from 0-100km/h in 6 seconds and reaches an electronically limited top speed of 250km/h. Average fuel consumption is rated at 8.11-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 189g/km.

Exterior Styling Features

The exterior is designed with a sporty profile that is enhanced by the incorporation of a carefully sculpted aero treatment. The front and rear bumpers, side skits and aerodynamic roof spoiler with two fully integrated trapezoidal-shaped exhaust tail pipes define the vehicles external shape.

The Opel Astra OPC is enveloped by three styling lines that define the silhouette. First is a fine crisp line that sweeps downward from the front door to the bottom of the rear fender to energise the body side. The second of the three lines encapsulates the door handle and flows to the rear to emphasise the dramatic stance of the OPC by spreading the surfaces to a fine undercut and broad shoulder. The third styling line follows the clean silhouette of the roof.

Additional standard features include 20-inch alloy wheels fitted with 245/35 R20 tyres, more robust side-skirts, a two-tier rear spoiler and a body colour bar across the radiator grille.

Interior Styling Features

Inside, the driver’s cockpit is defined by the flat-bottom leather-covered steering wheel and light-weight high-performance type bucket seats that can be adjusted in 18 ways. The Opel Astra OPC is trimmed with full leather upholstery with OPC stitching in Arden Blue or Cool Pearl. The Astra OPC comes with Bi-Xenon front headlights, front fog lights and daytime running lights with automatic headlight control and adaptive forward lighting.

Other features include Satellite controls for the audio and lock control on the steering wheel and a climate control air conditioner. Airbags include driver, passenger, side seats and roof curtain airbags. Also, the car comes equipped with FlexRide driver selectable performance characteristics and safety features such as Brembo high performance brakes, adjustable HiPerStrut damping, ABS with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), an Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), remote central locking, ultrasonic alarm/immobilizer and a vehicle inclination sensor.

The infotainment area features a premium 7-speaker audio system with RDS radio and front loading CD, MP3, Aux input, Bluetooth connectivity and USB port. Seven display modes are available including analogue instruments, a G-force meter, a digital display, over and understeer indicator, a bar chart, a line graph and map.

Opel Astra OPC – Price

Model Price
Opel Astra OPC R435 000
Opel Astra 1.6 Essentia R231 000
Opel Astra 1.4T Essentia Plus R248 000
Opel Astra 1.4T Enjoy R257 000
Opel Astra 1.6T Sport R298 500

Prices include a 5-year/90 000km Service Plan and a 5-year/120 000km warranty. All prices include VAT and CO2 Tax.

Alfa Romeo 4C to make Geneva debut

The Alfa Romeo 4C, the brands latest creation, will make its debut at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show early next month. The rear-wheel drive coupe gets its name from ‘four cylinders’ with inspiration derived from the 8C and 6C race cars from the 1930’s and 1940’s. The Alfa Romeo 4C was designed and produced at the Maserati plant in Modena, Italy, and marks the return of the brand to the U.S. as well as Alfa Romeo’s global growth plan.

Alfa Romeo 4C ready to take on the world

Engine Capability

Although Alfa Romeo has not provided performance figures yet, it is known that the 4C will be powered by the new 4-cylinder 1750 Turbo Petrol engine which features direct fuel injection, dual continuous variable valve timing, a turbocharger and a revolutionary scavenging control system that eliminates turbo lag. The engine will be mated to an Alfa TCT automatic twin dry-clutch transmission with manual switching made possible with shift paddles behind the steering wheel.

The Alfa Romeo 4C for the first time debuts the new Alfa DNA selector with four driving modes including Dynamic, Natural, All Weather and Race, depending on the driver’s preferences.

Design Features

The overall design was influenced by iconic models of the past, but most notably, the 33 Stradale played a major role in terms of dimensions and layout, which combined mechanical and functional requirements that ‘clothed’ the engine and chassis in unmistakable Alfa Romeo treatments. The Alfa Romeo 4C reflects compact size, agility and dynamism. The interior is designed and built for maximum driving pleasure and the central cell is made from carbon fibre to enhance the sense of uniqueness.

The Alfa Romeo 4C is 4 metres in length, 2 metres wide and stands 1.18 metres tall with a wheel base of 2.4 metres. The dimensions emphasise the compact nature of the vehicle and accentuates its agility.

Further details will be made available when the Alfa Romeo 4C makes its debut at the Geneva Motor Show on 5 March 2013.

Toyota Land Cruiser Review

The Toyota Land Cruiser is the preferred choice for miners and farmers in the most desolate areas. Toyota ads a double cab while we wait for the V8 Diesel.

Toyota Land Cruiser review by John Beale

Finally, the legendary Toyota Land Cruiser series has received a much-needed update, as well as the addition of a double cab to the range. South Africans pick the comb out of your socks and rejoice!

Toyota Land Cruiser first impressions

Arriving for the launch at George, we were greeted by the entire range, made up of a single cab, station wagon, wagon (or UN ambulance as I termed it) and double cab. Taking the route out towards the Karoo, I was expecting the typical “sports bra” ride, but was actually pleasantly surprised. Look, it’s no magic carpet ride, but the suspension (live axles front and rear, with coil springs at the front and leaf springs at the rear) isn’t as HUMVEE as you’d expect. There’s now central locking, electric windows all round, Sat Nav (in DC & SW), stereo, air-conditioning and electric mirrors. The rear seats in the DC are a bit tight for adults and the bench is upright but this is expected. We took the double cab through a combination of typical undulating surfaces, ruts, axle twisters and then some rather large rock river-bed climbing ensued.

Powertrain and performance

Our unit was the 4litre petrol producing 170kW at 5600RPM and 360NM at 3800RPM. The perennial 4.2litre diesel also does service in the double cab, however I have it under good authority that a V8 diesel will make an appearance for those who need more torque and power. I found the diesel a bit lacking when we had to haul uphill. Due to it being a petrol, some revving was needed to maneuver the vehicle over some of the terrain but we got through most of it with very little wheelspin or damage to the environment. The DC comes standard with those UN spec steel wheels. Spec the alloys, unless you want kids hanging out at your window waiting for food parcels or peace.

Land Cruiser features and specifications

All models come standard with diff lock, five speed manual gearbox and four-wheel drive system with low-range transfer box. The petrol engine has excellent anti-stall in 1st and 2nd in low range. The longer rear and step bars take some getting used to when off road, but front approach angle is excellent. Fuel consumption in the petrol suffered a bit during the rock-smacking (no trip function), but I would guess “guzzling/100km” would be close enough. Turning circle is good, but there is a vagueness about the steering that took a little time to get used to.

High ground clearance of 230mm for the wagon and 235mm for the rest of the range. The Toyota Land Cruiser is tough, and you can feel everything has been put together well. I love the simplicity and utilitarian nature of these vehicles, even driving long distances on dust roads, we had no dust creep into the cabin, which is testament to the build quality. This said, simple doesn’t have to mean cut down, as the range has had some significant upgrades:

  • 4-Wheel disc brakes with ABS (which disengages when diffs are engaged) now std.
  • Central locking & electric mirrors now standard
  • Fuel tank size grows to 130 / 180 litres in some cases

Note that the DC receives a 130litre tank but does not come standard with alloy wheels (As pictured, they are optional)

Toyota Land Cruiser conclusion

The double cab is a worthy addition to the range and will do those that require the extra passenger hauling ability justice in any place on earth.

Toyota Land Cruiser – Price

Toyota Land Cruiser DC 4litre petrol – R463 900

Toyota Land Cruiser DC Diesel – R487 000

  • The LC 70 series models come with Toyota’s 3year/100 000km warranty
  • View the Toyota Land Cruiser: New / Used

Used Car Analysis in South Africa for January 2013

Used car statistics derived from Cars.co.za in January 2013 have revealed interesting results in terms of the used car market in South Africa and the interests of the South African public towards particular used cars and brands on offer. In January 2013 a total of 3 009 357 vehicle views were made on Cars.co.za. Here is a breakdown of the most popular used cars as well as the most popular used car brands in South Africa for January 2013.

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

Make and model Total Views Used Car Market Penetration
1. VW Polo 167 117 5.6%
2. BMW 3-Series 125 527 4.1%
3. VW Golf 90 387 3.0%
4. Toyota Corolla 67 216 2.2%
5. Toyota Hilux 64 358 2.1%
6. Mercedes-Benz C-Class 61 896 2.1%
7. Volkswagen Polo Vivo 45 897 1.5%
8. Audi A4 44 783 1.5%
9. Toyota Yaris 44 503 1.5%
10. BMW 1-Series 41 628 1.4%

Not only was the VW Polo the most sought after used car in 2012, it has also come out top in the month of January 2013 with a market penetration of 5.6% which reflects its popularity in the used car market. Interestingly, the VW Polo is also the second best-selling new car for January 2013 according to the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers in South Africa (NAAMSA).

The BMW 3-Series is rated as the second most sought after vehicle in the used car market with a market penetration percentage of 4.1%. The BMW 3-Series was the brand’s best selling new car for 2012. The Toyota Hilux makes it into the top five for January 2013 with a market penetration percentage of 2.1% and is considered to be South Africa’s best selling bakkie in the new car market. South Africa’s best selling new car, the Polo Vivo, is ranked 7th in the used car market with a market percentage of 1.5%.

Top 3 most popular used car brands in South Africa for January 2013

Used Car Brand Total Views Used Car Market Penetration % New Car Market Penetration*
1. VW 333 963 11.1% 19.1%
2. Toyota 176 077 5.9% 18.6%
3. BMW 167 155 5.6% 4.2%

* According to official NAAMSA sales figures for January 2013

According to Cars.co.za, Volkswagen is considered to be the most popular car brand in the used car market in South Africa with a market penetration percentage of 11.1%. Comparatively, in the new car market in January 2013, Volkswagen holds top position with a market share of 19.1%. Volkswagen’s long-time rival, Toyota, is placed second in the used car market with a 5.9% market penetration. Toyota was however the best-selling new car brand in 2012. Interestingly, BMW holds a greater market presence in the used car market with a penetration percentage of 5.6% compared to 4.2% in the new car market in January 2013.

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.

Chevrolet Cruze TD debuts at Chicago Auto Show

Chevrolet has unveiled a Cruze diesel variant, the Cruze TD, at the Chicago Auto Show. According to General Motors, the Chevrolet Cruze TD is the cleanest diesel passenger car engine they have ever produced. The new diesel model will be introduced to the U.S. and Canadian markets and will not be available in South Africa.

Chevrolet Cruze TD is a frugal runner

Engine Capability

The Chevrolet Cruze TD is fitted with a 2.0 litre turbo diesel engine that produces 110kW and 350Nm of torque. This power translates into 0-100km/h in a time of 8.6 seconds. Based on a GM testing, the Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel fuel consumption is rated at 5.6 litres/100km. The Cruze TD also comes with a six speed automatic transmission.

“Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel fills an important role in Chevrolet’s diverse four-cylinder lineup, and is primed to win over diesel devotees and compact car buyers with its performance, torque and fuel economy,” said Chris Perry, Chevrolet vice president of marketing. He added “We leveraged engineering expertise from around the globe to develop a world-class, low-emissions engine to give U.S. and Canadian customers a car that’s both fun to drive and practical at the pump.”

Design Features

The Chevrolet Cruze TD features four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes and is fitted with 17-inch alloy wheels, ultra-low-rolling resistance all-season tyres, rear spoiler and a Aero Performance Package and leather-appointed seating.

Other standard features include Chevrolet’s infotainment system MyLink, a two-year maintenance plan, and a five-year 100,000 mile powertrain warranty

2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray convertible to make Geneva debut

Chevrolet has announced that the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray convertible will make its international debut at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show which takes place on 5 March. The Corvette Stingray convertible will combine the same technology, design and performance as the coupe variant which was unveiled at the Detroit Motor Show in January this year.

“It’s fitting to introduce the new Stingray convertible on the global stage at Geneva because Corvette is the face of Chevrolet the world over,” said Susan Docherty, president and managing director of Chevrolet and Cadillac Europe. “It is an icon that has long been recognized and admired even in countries where it’s never officially been offered.”

2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray convertible to be auctioned for charity

Chevrolet will auction the first retail production model of the Corvette Stingray convertible at the Barret-Jackson Palm Beach collector car auction which will benefit the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute. The Barret-Jackson auction will be held on 4-6 April 2013 at the South Florida Fairgrounds in Palm Beach.

“Every Corvette is designed at the outset as an open car,” said Tadge Juechter, Corvette chief engineer. “The new Stingray is no different, with the coupe and convertible designed to excel in any situation – be it your daily commute, a drive across the continent, or charging through twisting back roads.”

Further details of the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray convertible will be made available when the Geneva Motor Show kicks off on 5 March 2013.

*Please note the image is a rendering and may differ from the actual vehicle.

Volvo V40 Cross Country set for launch in South Africa

The Volvo V40 Cross Country is due for launch in South Africa this month. The Volvo V40 Cross Country combines ‘capable ruggedness’ and ‘expressive elegance’ to establish itself in the premium C-segment. Here is what you can expect from the Volvo V40 Cross Country when it arrives in South Africa this month.

Volvo V40 Cross Country – Features

Engine Capability

The Volvo V40 Cross Country’s performance is measured by a five cylinder 2.5 litre T5 engine that has a power output of 187kW and a torque figure of 400Nm including 40Nm overboost delivered during acceleration. Acceleration to 0-100km/h takes 6.5 seconds. Combined fuel consumption is 7.8 l/100 km and the T5 version comes with a six-speed automatic gearbox.

The T4 is a 1.6 litre GDTi engine that produces 132kW with a maximum torque figure of 270Nm including 30Nm overboost. Fuel consumption is rated at 5.5 l/100km/h with a CO2 emissions figure of 129g/km. The T4 is available in combination with the automatic six-speed Powershift transmission or a six-speed manual gearbox.

Diesel options include a five cylinder 2.0-litre D4 turbodiesel which has been optimised for fuel efficient driving pleasure and delivers 130kW and has a maximum torque figure of 400Nm. This power translates into 0-100km/h in 8.3 seconds with the automatic gearbox. This model consumes 5.2 l/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 137g/km with the automatic gearbox. .

In addition there is the 2.0-litre D3 that produces 110kW and 350 Nm of torque. Both these turbodiesels are available with a six-speed automatic transmission.

Exterior Styling Features

The Volvo V40 Cross Country is enhanced with sleek design details such as the dark front with a contrasting bumper, sculpted contrasting sills, honeycomb mesh grille and upright DRL lights. The rear bumper is integrated with a skid plate and the wheels are the same size as the Volvo V70, including rims up to 19-inches in size.

Other exterior details include an anodized, black high-gloss frame around the greenhouse, black rear-view mirror housings and sleek rails that float over the roof.

“The Volvo V40 Cross Country retains its V40 stylishness by integrating the ruggedness in the design with meticulous attention to detail. It has en extrovert, expressive character that promises the open-minded adventurer a great time,” says Simon Lamarre, exterior design manager for the V40 Cross Country.

Interior Styling Features

Inside, the Raw Copper exterior launch colour is echoed by contrasting stitching which can be further emphasised by choosing the Copper Dawn centre stack inlay. The leather upholstery comes in five different versions including the Espresso Brown accent colour.

Further features for the Volvo V40 Cross Country include two-piece 40/60 folding rear seat backrests and a load compartment that can be equipped with a practical hanging load net. A soft safety net is optional and a steel version is available as an accessory. The front passenger seat can be folded forward to create even more space. In addition to the two permanent hooks, the extra floor integrates hooks for bags. Between the upper and lower floors there is a concealed storage area.

Lighting is designed to give a theatre lighting feel and LED lamps are used to light up strategic areas. For the driver’s enjoyment, the red to blue setting adapts the light to the interior temperature. There are seven other mood themes to choose from and the front and rear reading lights can be dimmed.

The expansive storage compartments include a storage compartment below the armrest suitable for CDs and other small items also the accessory range which includes a ‘Cargo Mat Organiser’ that keeps smaller items secure and in order, as well as a ‘Load Organiser’ that includes a load compartment divider, a load belt and two floor rails.

Prices for the Volvo V40 Cross Country will be announced at launch.

Most popular news articles for January 2013

January 2013 was a busy month for the automotive industry, both locally and internationally, with various new models introduced in South Africa and a wide range of new and exciting vehicles shown at the Detroit Auto Show. Here are the top five most popular news articles for the month of January.

1. Meet the new Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG 4MATIC, which comes in either sedan or station wagon form, now features a redesigned, performance-orientated AMG all-wheel drive system as standard. The E63 AMG 4MATIC is fitted with a powerful 5.5-litre AMG V8 engine that develops 410kW and 720Nm of torque while the S Model will deliver 430kW and 800Nm of torque. Acceleration to 100km/h is achieved in under 3.5 seconds before reaching an electronically limited top speed of 299km/h. The E63 AMG 4MATIC makes use of an AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission. There is no indication whether the E63 AMG 4MATIC will be available in South Africa.

2. Toyota Land Cruiser 70 Series gets upgrade

Toyota’s 70 Series Land Cruiser has received a number of upgrades for 2013 and now includes a new Double Cab version and all models in the range now feature Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as standard. A 96kW/285Nm 4.2-litre diesel engine is available across the range while the Land Cruiser 79 Single Cab and Double Cab are powered by a 4.0-litre petrol engine that produces 170kW and 360Nm of torque. All models feature differential lock, a 5-speed manual transmission and a four-wheel drive system.

3. Lexus reveals IS sedan ahead of Detroit Motor Show debut

The Lexus IS sedan made its debut at the Detroit Auto Show in January and includes the IS 250, IS 350 and the IS 300h hybrid model. F SPORT models are also available across the range. Drawing inspiration from the LF-CC concept, the IS sedan features Lexus’ new spindle grille design while the F SPORT models feature an exclusive grille and bumper design.

4. South Africa’s most popular new cars for 2012

The year of 2012 was an exciting one for the South African automotive industry. In terms of the most popular vehicles for the year, the Volkswagen Polo Vivo came out on top as South Africa’s best selling new car for 2012. The Toyota Hilux bakkie was South Africa’s best selling bakkie for 2012 with the Volkswagen Polo claiming third place.

5. Peugeot reveals 2008 Urban Crossover

The Peugeot 2008 Crossover can be expected in South Africa early in 2014 and was developed simultaneously in France, China and Brazil. Combining hatchback and SUV elements, the 2008 Urban Crossover features 17-inch ‘Diamond’ wheels with a matt finish while the bumpers, body sills, front and rear body protection and side mouldings offer protection from abrasions. Powertrain details have not been confirmed but expect the 2008 Urban Crossover to be powered by an e-HDI Diesel engine and a new 3-cylinder petrol engine with a CO2 emissions figure of only 99g/km.

Mercedes-Benz CLA Edition 1 launched

The Mercedes-Benz CLA Edition 1 has been launched for the European market and it will only be available for 12 months. Four Edition 1 models are available and these include the CLA 180, CLA 200, CLA 250 and the CLA 220 CDI.

Mercedes-Benz CLA Edition 1 is big on style

The four-door coupe comes with a unique paintjob and is offered in either mountain grey, cosmos black, night black, cirrus white or designo polar silver magno. The diamond radiator grille boasts a black fin and chrome inserts.

The Mercedes-Benz CLA Edition 1 comes fitted with AMG components such as front and rear aprons as well as side sill panels in combination with the black painted multi-spoke alloy wheels.

Other special equipment include bi-xenon headlamps, lowered sports suspension, sports seats upholstered in leather and black microfibre DINAMICA with yellow stitching and ARTICO man-made leather with yellow stitching for the instrument panel and beltlines. The 3-spoke multi-function sports steering wheel is finished in Nappa leather with a flattened bottom section with perforations in the grip area.

Power is rated between 90kW and 125kW with torque varying between 200Nm and 350Nm depending on the model. The Mercedes-Benz CLA Edition 1 will not be sold in South Africa.