Geely MK 1.5 launches R99 990 challenge

Geely South Africa has informally challenged car manufacturers to beat its Geely MK 1.5 sedan which is now offered for R99 990. In 1999 a challenge was set to offer a budget car for R9 990 and car manufacturers stripped their entry-level cars and offered them as new models. Geely now offers the well-specced 1.5 MK sedan, without compromising features.

Geely MK sedan offers affordability

“It is an informal, light-hearted challenge from us to other manufacturers to offer the same great value for money vehicles we do – in terms of specification, size and price,” says Henri Meistre, Managing Director of Geely South Africa.

Geely will not be ordering more of its popular MK series before the end of the year and will be running out the current model. “We are expecting the MK’s hatchback replacement late this year,” says Meistre. “The new model replacing it will be a ‘global’ car, designed by Italy’s Giugiaro. It promises higher quality and equipment levels, putting it into a more upmarket segment.”

Standard Features

The Geely MK 1.5 sedan comes standard with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), dual airbags, air-conditioning, electric windows, CD/Radio, Rear Park Assist and alloy rims.

Geely MK 1.5 Sedan – Price

Geely MK 1.5 Sedan – R99 990

BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo shown at 2013 Chicago Auto Show

BMW unveiled the new 2014 Gran Turismo at the 2013 Chicago Auto Show. The model will be available in a range of standard trim lines, including the Sport Line, Luxury Line, Modern Line, and M Sport. The BMW 3-Series Gran Turismo can be expected in South Africa later in 2013.

BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo offers four engines

The BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo will come with a choice of three petrol engines and one diesel engine. The petrol units include a 135kW 2.0-litre engine for the 320i, a 180kW 2.0-litre for the 328i and a 225kW 3.0-litre, six-cylinder engine. The diesel option is a 2.0-litre unit that develops 135kW and 308Nm of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard and an 8-speed automatic transmission will be available as an option.

3 Series GT boasts sporty styling

The BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo features four doors with frameless windows and a gently falling roofline with a large tailgate. The front end is detailed with a powerful BMW kidney grille and modified front apron with large air intakes below the headlights underlining the car’s sporting character. The model also sports striking twin headlights with corona rings.

When specified, Xenon headlights and LED accent lights form a visual unit with slightly forward slanting kidneys that reinforce the sense of both width and presence. The Gran Turismo is 4284mm long, and is 200mm longer than the 3-Series Touring and has a 110mm longer wheelbase. The rendered coupe-style roofline slopes down the rear stretch creating extra interior space.

The Gran Turismo is the brands first-ever model to sport an active rear spoiler. All models of the Grand Turismo are available with a range of 18-inch or 19-inch alloy wheels, unique to each trim line. For stopping power, the Gran Turismo relies on lightweight floating caliper brakes with large inner-vented discs, and front brake calipers made from aluminium.

Interior Styling Features

The five-seat Gran Turismo is boosted by a 59mm higher seating position and 70mm more rear legroom. A 40/20/40 split/folding rear seat comes as standard and a 520-litre boot capacity offers ample storage space.

Other features include latest-generation multi-colour Head-Up Display, which displays the speed/speed limit along with navigation instructions and warning messages, using Blind Spot and Lane Departure Warning systems.

The driver focused layout ensures optimum access to all driving functions on the crystal clear circular instrument cluster with a black-panel display and a freestanding iDrive monitor. The flat screen design gives a sense of functional elegance. Optional folding armrests between the front seats guarantee the cabin’s usability and comfort. Customers can also choose from three additional equipment lines plus M Sport, which all adds to the car’s overall look.

BMW 3 Series GT Safety Features

Safety features include advanced light technology such as anti dazzle High Beam Assistant, optional Adaptive Xenon Headlights, Active Cruise Control and Go function.

In addition to the rear view camera and Park Distance Control is the Surround View function with side and top view and BMW Assist eCall with enhanced Automatic Collision Notification with automatic vehicle location.

Expect to see the BMW 3-Series Gran Turismo in South Africa in the middle of 2013.

Kia Cross GT Hybrid Concept at 2013 Chicago Auto Show

Kia unveiled its new Kia Cross GT Hybrid Concept at the 2013 Chicago Auto Show. The Kia Cross GT draws inspiration from the original GT concept and combines it with a luxury crossover layout.

Peter Schreyer, Kia Motors Corporation president and global chief of design noted “The debut of the GT in 2011 heralded a new frontier for Kia, both from a design and a business perspective.”

He added, “It beautifully illustrated to the world that the brand was ready to explore the possibility of perhaps one day offering a full-size rear-drive luxury saloon. The Kia Cross GT, with its raised stance and large cargo area, allows us to envision the GT in the form of a full-size luxury crossover.”

Kia Cross GT Concept hints at future design

Engine Capability

The Kia Cross GT concept is fitted with a 3.8 litre V6 hybrid engine, an 8 speed automatic transmission and torque vectoring all-wheel drive. The V6 is backed by a pancake shaped electric motor and when the two are combined, they generate 298kW of power with a maximum torque figure of 678Nm.

Exterior Styling Features

The Kia Cross GT is designed with a lower roofline, with a 122-inch wheelbase. The design is enhanced by the dual rear hinged doors and the rear bucket seats allow for easier access and views of the Cross GT’s premium textures and materials.

Access to the cargo compartment is made possible by a clam shell design that incorporates a traditional glass hatch and a tailgate. Advanced LED technology creates a strong and unique lighting identity that highlights Kia’s signature grille.

Interior Styling Features

Inside, the Kia Cross GT features a multi-paneled sky light with hexagonal glass inserts that enhance the car’s premium design aesthetic. The four bucket seats are covered in Almond-Terra coloured leather and anchored to the central tunnel. Inspired by fine equestrian saddles, the seats feature contrasting stitching and are tanned with vegetable oil using natural dyes. The instrument panel is made of re-harvested American Walnut with 100% eco-friendly renewable wool used throughout the cabin.

Sub-systems include HVAC, telematics and entertainment accessed via an easy to use touchscreen and central mouse control technology that enables the driver to keep their hands on the wheel at all times.

Rear passengers have the option to use the internet and infotainment through flat panel screens mounted to the headrests of the front seats. The storage compartment is incorporated beneath the flat load in the cargo area behind the rear seats.

2014 Nissan 370Z NISMO shown at Chicago Auto Show

Joining the new Juke NISMO in Nissan showrooms later this year is the 2014 Nissan 370Z NISMO which was previewed at the 2013 Chicago Auto Show. The new 2014 Nissan 370Z NISMO features a number of exterior and interior enhancements to further the vehicles appeal.

2014 Nissan 370Z NISMO kitted out for spirited driving

Engine Capability

The 370Z NISMO’s performance is ensured by an advanced Nissan Front Midship (FM) platform, refined 4-wheel independent suspension and a 3.7 litre DOHC V6 engine with Variable Valve Event and Lift Control (VVEL) rated at 261kW at 7400rpm with a maximum torque figure of 374Nm available at 5200rpm. Acceleration is optimised through the use of an exclusive H-configured exhaust system design and muffler tuning, along with ECM (Engine Control Module) calibration. This engine is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission with Nissan’s SynchroRev Match synchronised downshift rev matching system.

Exterior Styling Features

The exterior features new dark gray colouring on the front and rear fascias, lower side sills, side mirrors and NISMO rear spoiler with each element (except side sills) featuring NISMO-style red pinstripe accents. The Solid Red replaces the previous Magma Red as one of four 370Z NISMO exterior colour choices.

Additional features include unique super lightweight 19-inch RAYS forged aluminum-alloy wheels with a Gun Metallic finish. An extended front nose design and a fully integrated chin spoiler provide a sense of dynamic movement while enhancing airflow and down-force for enhanced aerodynamic performance.

Interior Styling Features

The inside of the 370Z NISMO sports a new steering wheel wrapped in Alacantara, leather wrapped gear lever, aluminium-trimmed pedals and a red NISMO tachometer.

Sporty seats are covered in woven cloth with NISMO logos and feature 8-way driver’s/4 way passenger manual adjustments and adjustable front seat Active Head Restraints. Nissan Intelligent Key with Push Button start, power windows with one touch auto up/down feature, power door locks with auto lock feature and automatic climate control all come as standard.

Other interior features include an AM/FM/CD/AUX 4-speaker audio system, a Bose Package featuring an in-dash 6-CD changer, six speakers, two subwoofers, Bluetooth Hands-Free Phone System, auto-dimming inside mirror and a HomeLink Universal Transceiver.

“The great thing about the 370Z NISMO, like the JUKE NISMO, is that there is solid functionality behind every element, race-inspired but ready for the street and with pure NISMO style.” said Pierre Loing, Vice President, Product and Advanced Planning and Strategy, Nissan America.

Along with the 2014 Nissan 370Z NISMO, the 370Z is also available as a 370Z Coupe and 370Z Roadster.

Citroen TECHNOSPACE concept in Geneva

The Citroen TECHNOSPACE concept will be showcased at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show which will point to the brand’s future Multi Purpose Vehicle (MPV) that will be released in the second half of 2013. The concept will demonstrate Citroen’s ‘Créative Technologie’ and will solidify Citroen’s presence in the compact MPV segment.

Citroen TECHNOSPACE Concept points to future MPV

The Citroen TECHNOSPACE Concept will exhibit a record CO2 emissions level of only 98g/km thanks to the new Efficient Modular Platform 2 (EMP2) which features efficient architecture and weight reductions. Numerous technologies will be incorporated including a full-touch driving interface with a high definition 12-inch panoramic screen.

The Citroen TECHNOSPACE concept is 4.43m in length, 1.83m wide and stands 1.61m tall with standard-setting interior space and class-leading boot capacity of 537-litres. The design is strong and expressive with dynamic lines and high-tech headlamps which are complemented with 3D-effect tail lights inspired by the latest Citroen concept cars.

The Citroen TECHNOSPACE concept will be unveiled on 5 March 2013 at the Geneva Motor Show.

Kia Superman Optima Hybrid debuts at Chicago Auto Show

The Kia Superman Optima Hybrid has been unveiled at the 2013 Chicago Auto Show. The Kia Superman Optima Hybrid signals the continuation of a 10-month, eight vehicle partnership between Kia and DC Entertainment to raise awareness of DC Entertainment’s ‘We Can Be Heroes’ campaign which aims to bring relief to people affected by drought and famine in the Horn of Africa. The Kia Superman Optima Hybrid is the sixth out of eight vehicles representing characters from the Justice League.

Kia Superman Optima Hybrid – Features

Kia, together with DC Entertainment and Super Street Magazine designed and built the vehicle which has been widened with custom fenders and features adjustable suspension which raises and lowers the vehicle with the push of a button. The hood features the Superman emblem while a red paint design extends to the trunk, evoking the look of a crimson cape. The bevelled front grille resembles Superman’s belt with red headlights.

The interior of the Kia Superman Optima Hybrid is upholstered in custom materials and the seats and steering wheel feature Superman’s iconic ‘S’ shield to give the vehicle a heroic touch. Two video screens are found in the front headrests which are used to raise awareness by featuring a custom ‘We Can Be Heroes’ video that demonstrates how one small act can make anyone a hero.

“As the most recognized Super Hero in the world, Superman is a symbol of strength and integrity, making him the perfect character to join forces with Kia’s first-ever hybrid to create a customized ride powered by a robust and efficient powertrain,” said Michael Sprague, executive vice president, marketing and communications, KMA. “Each of our Justice League-inspired vehicles are remarkable collaborations between the automotive and comic book worlds, and all for a worthy cause. To that, Kia is very proud to be partnering with DC Entertainment to raise awareness for the ‘We Can Be Heroes’ campaign.”

Cars.co.za launches billboard campaign in Gauteng

Cars.co.za has launched a billboard campaign in Gauteng that will attract the attention of thousands of South African motorists on a daily basis. The billboards are placed at eight strategic locations around Gauteng, including Pretoria, Midrand and Johannesburg.

Look out for the Cars.co.za billboards at the following locations:

Johannesburg East

  • Cnr Rietfontein Rd and North Rand Road
  • N12 near Bardene

Johannesburg North

  • Cnr William Nicol Drive and Main Rd
  • N3 South, after Malboro Drive

Midrand

  • M1 South, after Allandale

Pretoria

  • Zambezi Drive
  • Annlin Rd
  • R21 near Pomona

Have you seen a Cars.co.za billboard yet? Share your feedback in the comment section below or contact us via Facebook or Twitter.

Nissan Juke NISMO debuts at Chicago Auto Show

Nissan has officially introduced the 2013 Nissan Juke NISMO at the Chicago Auto Show. The car is the fourth model in the popular Nissan JUKE line-up and features a race-inspired exterior, NISMO tuned suspension, steering and transmission which enhances driving dynamics. The 2013 Nissan Juke NISMO comes in either front-wheel or rear-wheel drive formats.

Nissan Juke NISMO ups the stakes

Engine Capability

The Nissan Juke NISMO is available in the form of a reworked version of Nissan’s advanced 4-inline cylinder 1.6-litre DOHC aluminium-alloy Direct Injection Gasoline (DIG) turbocharged engine. Power output is rated at 147kW with a maximum torque figure of 249Nm.

The front-wheel drive version is equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission while the all-wheel drive version has a sport-tuned Nissan advanced Xtronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with manual mode.

Exterior Styling Features

Compared to the standard Nissan Juke, the NISMO version features a new front fascia and grille which have been modified to optimise airflow. The fog lights have been replaced with thin-strip LED accent lights. The upper edge of the larger lower grille features a red pinstripe and the V-strut grille is finished in a darker shade. The wheel arches are more muscular and are finished in body colour while the door mirrors are painted in red.

The Nissan Juke NISMO rides on 18-inch lightweight aluminium-alloy wheels with a 10 twin-spoke design and finished in dark anthracite. The Juke NISMO comes in three exterior colours including Sapphire Black, Brilliant Silver and Pearl White.

Interior Styling Features

The seats are trimmed in suede with red stitching and have been redesigned to offer additional lateral support. The steering wheel is finished Alcantara and leather with red stitching and includes a red marker to indicate ‘top dead centre’ which is derived from racing.

The Nissan Juke NISMO is also offered with a Nissan Navigation System with a 5 inch colour touchscreen display and NavTraffic capability, a Rockford Fosgate ecoPUNCH audio system, USB interface and a Rear-View Monitor.

Safety Features

The Juke NISMO comes equipped with the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage, dual-threshold front air bags and seat belt and occupant classification sensors, roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags for front and rear outboard occupant head protection, seat-mounted driver and front passenger side impact supplemental airbags and front seat Active Head Restraints.

Other safety equipment includes Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children system (LATCH), Nissan Vehicle Immobilizer System, Vehicle Security System (VSS), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and Traction Control System (TCS).

The Nissan Juke NISMO will not be available in South Africa.

Renault Scenic XMOD and Grand Scenic for Geneva debut

Details of the new Renault Scenic XMOD have been revealed ahead of its world premier at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. Renault will also be showcasing the newly facelifted Grand Scenic for 2013 at the show which is scheduled for 5 March 2013.

Renault Scenic XMOD and Grand Scenic to take the stage

Engine Capability

Both the Renault Scenic XMOD and facelifted Grand Scenic will be available with three new Energy powertrains. The all-new TCe 130 Stop & Start engine boasts up to 15% improvement in fuel consumption compared to the previous TCe 130 unit with an equivalent combined–cycle fuel saving of 1.0-litre/100km’s. Further performance details will be revealed at the Geneva Motor Show.

Exterior Design Features

The new Renault Scenic XMOD combines the outdoor cues of a crossover with the refined features of an MPV to give it a sporty and elegant look. Exterior features include special alloy wheels, special front and rear bumpers, sill guards and chrome finish roof bars across the range. The front-end incorporates Renault’s new design identity and signature LED Daytime Running Lights.

On the new Grand Scenic, the Renault logo at the front is now bigger and set against a gloss black background that emphasises the new grille.

Interior Design Features

The inside of the Renault Scenic XMOD features a fixed centre console with a multi- directional joystick control for the multimedia system. A customisable TFT (Thin Film Transistor) digital display and dashboard are dominated by the fully connected Renault R-Link 7-inch touchscreen multimedia system. The XMOD’s boot capacity is 555-litres with independent folding and removable seats to provide a host of seating and storage options.

Additional features include a flat bottomed steering wheel and aluminium capped pedals and gear lever knob. The XMOD comes with new stitched upholstery and a leather Alcantara pack. Both the new Renault Scenic XMOD and Grand Scenic models include a Bose sound system with class-leading acoustic performance.

The new Scenic XMOD is the first vehicle in the Renault range to feature the all-new Grip Xtend system which enables the vehicle to grip the road under difficult driving conditions. The driver can choose from three types of assistance including Expert mode, Road mode and Loose Ground mode.

Further information on specification and availability will be released when the new Renault Scenic XMOD and Grand Scenic make their debut at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show.

New Ford Fiesta ST rolls off production line

Production of the fastest-ever Ford Fiesta ST has started at Ford’s assembly plant in Cologne, Germany. The new Ford Fiesta ST, developed by Ford Team RS, is the first ever sub-seven second production Fiesta and will be launched in South Africa in the second quarter of 2013.

New Ford Fiesta ST ready to race

Engine Capability

The new Ford Fiesta ST will be fitted with a 1.6-litre EcoBoost petrol engine that produces 132kW and 240Nm of torque. This power translates into a 0-100km/h sprint time of 6.9 seconds before reaching a top speed of 220km/h. Combined fuel consumption is rated at 5.9-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 138g/km.

Design Features

The new Ford Fiesta ST features a new honeycomb mesh trapezoidal grille and a rear diffuser. The interior benefits from Recaro seats and SYNC, Ford’s in-car voice activated connectivity system. The Fiesta ST is also equipped with MyKey which allows parents to encourage safer driving and limit their teenager’s exposure to risk behind the wheel.

Ford has refined the Fiesta ST’s global B-car chassis with new steering, suspension, braking components, configuration and tuning. Ford’s enhanced Torque Vectoring Control system and a three-mode Electronic Stability Control system contributes to a refined and secure driving experience.

“The new Ford Fiesta ST is a very modern performance car built on more than 30 years of fast Fiestas and a global development process,” said Juergen Gagstatter, chief programme engineer, Performance Cars, Ford of Europe. “This vehicle is a significant step forward, both in terms of our proud heritage of blending a powerful engine with a dynamic chassis, and also in achieving reduced fuel consumption and emissions.”