Chevrolet Camaro Turbo Coupe concept at 2013 Chicago Motor Show

The 2013 Chevrolet Camaro Turbo Coupe concept is currently on display at the Chicago Motor Show and is based on a character from the DreamWorks high-velocity 3D comedy, Turbo. The comedy features a speed obsessed snail who transforms into a racer with the help of the Camaro. The comedy is set to hit theatres in July 2013.

2013 Chevrolet Camaro Turbo Coupe comes to the rescue

The Chevrolet Camaro makes use of a supercharged V8 engine with automatic transmission that produces 522kW.

The wide body design of the Camaro features lower rockers and fender flares, with a front splitter, rear diffuser and a GT concept rear wing spoiler. LED lights are used in the front and rear with a multi-colour halo effect for the front headlamps. Painted in black, the body is wrapped in a vinyl chrome and tinted dark to look like black chrome…

The Chevrolet Camaro Turbo Coupe concept features a custom created intake assembly for the supercharger housing and the rear exhaust outlets are 5-inches in diameter with two on each side.

The rear suspension is fitted with custom adjustable rear spring and shock assemblies while the front suspension is fitted with custom adjustable coilover strut assemblies. Other additional features include a custom COPO hood assembly and a low profile hood pin system.

Volkswagen Limited Edition GTI models make Chicago debut

Two 2013 Volkswagen limited edition GTI models, the GTI Wolfsburg Edition and the GTI Driver’s Edition, are currently being showcased at the Chicago Auto Show.  Both models will be available in limited numbers for the final sixth-generation hot-hatch and is available in four-door guise only and are offered in three colors including Candy White, Carbon Steel Gray, and Deep Black.

Volkswagen limited edition GTI models offer unique package

VW GTI Wolfsburg Edition

The VW GTI Wolfsburg Edition features 18-inch ‘Laguna’ wheels, a retro themed golf ball shifter knob, and red stitched carpeted floor mats. A total of 2000 Wolfsburg Edition models will be available.

VW GTI Driver Edition

The VW GTI Driver Edition sports the GTI sunroof and Navigation package. In addition, the model will be fitted with 18-inch aluminum alloy ‘Laguna’ wheels, a golf ball shifter knob, red stitched carpeted floor mats, and partial leather seat coverings.

The GTI Wolfsburg Edition and GTI Driver Edition will go on sale in the U.S and will not be available in South Africa.

Subaru lineup for 2013 Geneva Motor Show

Fuji Heavy Industries (FHI), the maker of Subaru vehicles, has announced that the Subaru VIZIV Concept will make its international debut at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. In addition, FHI will also introduce the Subaru Outback as well as the all-new Forester.

Subaru at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show

Subaru VIZIV Concept

The VIZIV Concept will showcase future direction of new designs and technologies. The future-generation crossover concept embodies the brand value of ‘Enjoyment and Peace of Mind’. The VIZIV model name is a coined word inspired by the phrase ‘Vision for Innovation’ and expresses a future vision for innovation and suggests the future direction of Subaru vehicles.

Subaru Outback Boxer Diesel Lineartronic

The Subaru Outback Boxer Diesel features the Lineartronic CVT transmission for the first time, offering a smooth and efficient ride and enhances the performance of the Subaru Boxer Diesel engine. Adaptive Control and manual shifting contribute to the fun-to-drive nature of the Subaru Outback Diesel Lineartronic. The vehicle is due for launch in South Africa in June 2013.

All-new Subaru Forester

The all-new Forester will be displayed along with technical exhibits and the model recently achieved a five-star safety rating in the 2012 Euro NCAP safety performance test. The new Subaru Forester will be launched in South Africa in March 2013.

2013 marks Subaru’s 55th anniversary and FHI will express the brand’s history and future vision with the exhibition of a Subaru 360 launched in 1958 and the latest Subaru VIZIV Concept.

Top selling new cars in South Africa for January 2013

January 2013 was yet another successful month for the South African automotive industry with vehicle sales totalling 55 007 units according to NAAMSA. The passenger vehicle market showed gains of 12.3% compared to January 2012 with sales totalling 39 738 units. The top five selling vehicles in South Africa for January 2013 are as follows. Please note that the results include vehicles in the passenger vehicle segment and the Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) segment.

1. Volkswagen Polo Vivo – 4 037 units

South Africa’s most popular selling passenger car for 2012 has had a phenomenal start to the year, proving its popularity in the South African market. Compared to December 2012, Polo Vivo sales increased by 46.8% or 1 890 units in January 2013. The Polo Vivo remains a popular entry-level choice for new car buyers and is offered either as a hatchback or sedan with a variety of engine options ranging from between 55kW and 77kW. Depending on the model, prices range from R110 500 for the 1.4-litre 2-door hatchback and R157 700 for the 1.6 Trendline sedan.

2. Volkswagen Polo – 2 790 units

The VW Polo was rated as South Africa’s third best selling model in 2012 and continues to be a popular option for new car buyers in South Africa. Compared to December 2012, Polo sales increased by 17.1% in January 2013, solidifying its position in the new passenger car market. The VW Polo is also offered as either a hatchback or sedan and prices start from R160 100 for the 1.4-litre Trendline to the top-of-the-range Polo GTI which is priced at R280 400.

3. Toyota Hilux – 2 634 units

Hot on the heels of the VW Polo is Toyota’s ever popular Hilux bakkie. The Hilux had a successful sales year in 2012 and is South Africa’s most popular bakkie and was rated as South Africa’s second best selling vehicle for 2012. The Toyota Hilux is available in three body styles namely Single Cab, Xtra Cab and Double Cab. A wide variety of engine options are available and prices range from R186 700 to R475 900, depending on the model.

4. Toyota Etios – 2 515 units

The Toyota Etios has been in the top selling list for a number of months and has had a successful sales run since its launch in South Africa in May last year. Compared to December 2012, Etios sales have climbed by 31.5% in January 2013 which is indicative of its popularity in the South African market. The Etios is available as a hatchback or sedan with prices starting at R115 800 for the 1.5 Xi hatchback and R121 900 for the 1.5 Xi sedan. The Etios remains a strong contender in the entry-level car market.

5. Nissan NP200 – 1 553 units

Nissan’s most popular workhorse, the NP200, has started the year on a positive note and was regarded as Nissan’s best selling vehicle in 2012. Compared to December 2012, NP200 sales have increased by 47.2% in January 2012. Prices for the Nissan NP200 start at R120 900 for the 1.6 Base model while the 1.6 High model is priced at R172 500.

Citroen DS3 Cabrio launched

The Citroen DS3 Cabrio has been introduced in South Africa. The Citroen DS3 Cabrio, a soft-top version of the successful DS3, is now available in three variants with seven body colours, three roof designs and nine wheel styles to choose from. The DS3 Cabrio combines the style of the DS3 hatchback with open-top fun of a convertible.

Citroen DS3 Cabrio for fun top-down motoring

Engine Capability

The Citroen DS3 Cabrio will be launched with the choice of three efficient Euro V petrol engines including the VTi 82, VTi 120 and the THP 155. The VTi engines are mated to a 5-speed manual transmission while the THP 155 is coupled with a 6-speed manual transmission. The Citroen DS3 Cabrio exhibits a combined fuel consumption figure of 4.9-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 112g/km. A Gear Efficiency Indicator (GEI) is fitted as standard and signals the optimum moment to change gear which enhances fuel consumption and encourages fuel efficient driving.

Exterior Design Features

The Citroen DS3 Cabrio retains the styling and proportions of the DS3 hatchback which includes the ‘floating’ two-tone roof, the ‘shark fin’ B-pillar and the sculpted front-end with its distinctive LED light signature. The DS3 Cabrio offers an array of customisation options with a choice of seven body colours and three coordinated roof designs with a choice of fourteen combinations. In addition, nine different wheel styles are on offer including 16-inch or 17-inch alloy wheels available in a range of colours and designs.

The Citroen DS3 Cabrio features a fully retractable electric canvas roof which can be operated at speeds of up to 120km/h. Three roof positions can be chosen and these include intermediate, horizontal and total. The roof opens and closes in 16 seconds. The roof is available in three designs including Black, Infinite Blue and Moondust Grey DS Monogramme.

Interior Design Features

The Citroen DS3 Cabrio features white LED ambient lighting for the centre console with white lights set in the instrument cluster. An aerodynamic front deflector provides acoustic comfort by deflecting air currents and preventing air buffeting. New upholstery choices are available including Granite Blue leather. The décor on the dashboard strip, air vent surrounds and gear knob are colour-coded to the body paint and soft-top. There are six décor choices available and these include Aluminium effect, Gloss Black, White, Carbon Fibre effect, Infinite Blue and Moondust Grey.

The DS3 Cabrio seats up to five passengers and features a 60/40 split-folding rear bench with a class-leading boot capacity of 245-litres. The tailgate features a unique opening mechanism which uses a circular upwards motion to allow the boot to open fully when parked near obstructions.

Safety Features

Safety features for the DS3 Cabrio include Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Cruise control with speed limiter and ISOFIX child seat mountings. Citroën’s award-winning eTouch Emergency & Assistance system is also included and automatically or manually makes geo-localised emergency or assistance calls using a built-in SIM card for rapid intervention in the event of an accident or if the car is immobilised. Airbag safety includes a driver’s airbag, front passenger airbag and front lateral and curtain airbags.

New Honda Concepts for 2013 Geneva Motor Show

It has been revealed that two new Honda concepts will be shown at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show alongside the CR-V with a new 1.6 i-DTEC diesel engine. The new Honda concepts include the Honda Civic Wagon Concept Model and the new Honda NSX Concept.

New Honda Concepts hint at future design

Honda Civic Wagon Concept Model

The Civic Wagon Concept Model provides strong cues for the exterior design of the final mass production model and is expected to strengthen the current Civic range when it goes into production.

Honda NSX Concept

The new Honda NSX Concept hints at the possible direction of the next-generation NSX’s interior design. The exterior styling retains much of the original concept’s styling with its low and wide stance and features ‘edgy’ details that exude a supercar attitude and a high-tech feel.

Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V will highlight Honda’s new Earth Dreams Technology 1.6-litre i-DTEC diesel engine. The CR-V 1.6 i-DTEC will be available in two-wheel drive with manual transmission. The 1.6 i-DTEC diesel engine is the lightest in its class and helps the CR-V achieve energetic performance, agile handling and low running costs.

More details on the new Honda concepts will be made available when the Geneva Motor Show kicks-off on 5 March 2013.

Suzuki to show new C segment crossover at 2013 Geneva Motor Show

Suzuki has announced that it will be showcasing its all-new C-segment crossover at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show on 5 March 2013. Suzuki has provided two teaser images of the crossover ahead of its world premier in Geneva.

New crossover from Suzuki

Suzuki’s new crossover is based on the S-Cross concept first shown at the Paris Motor Show in September 2012. Suzuki’s new crossover is said to feature a roomy interior with one of the largest luggage areas in the crossover segment and will offer outstanding versatility according to Suzuki. The crossover will feature Suzuki’s advanced four-wheel drive technology which is expected to enhance handling and driving enjoyment.

Further information will be provided when the crossover is unveiled at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show.

Suzuki will also be showcasing the Alto, Splash, Swift, SX4, Jimny, Grand Vitara and Kizashi at the show.

Audi A7 range gets new entry level model

Audi has announced that a new entry-level Audi A7 model is now available in South Africa. In addition to the launch of S7 Sportback last year and the imminent arrival of the RS 7 Sportback later in 2013, the new entry-level Audi A7 offers a more affordable entry-point into the premium C-segment market and adds more choice to the Audi A7 range.

Audi A7 3.0TDI gives buyers more choice

Engine Capability

The new entry-level Audi A7 is powered by an advanced 3.0-litre TDI engine that produces 130kW and is coupled with a multitronic transmission. This unit consumes 5.3-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 139g/km. The engine comes with a recuperation system, thermal management and start-stop system as standard.

Standard Features

The entry-level Audi A7 features Xenon headlights with LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs), electrically adjustable and heated exterior mirrors as well as a electrically operated tailgate. The interior includes an interior lighting package, Audi Drive Select with efficiency mode, Audi Music Interface, driver information system, MMI Radio Plus with active speakers and pop-up display as well as Bluetooth cell phone preparation and wireless with audio streaming. The upholstery is in Milano leather seat trim and a sideguard airbag system is also included. Cruise control and front and rear Park Distance Control are also standard features.

Audi A7 – Price

Model Price
Audi A7 3.0 TDI R649 500
Audi S7 Sportback R919 600

The high-performance Audi RS 7 Sportback will be available to order in South Africa in August 2013 and the price will be announced closer to launch.

2014 Volkswagen Beetle GSR limited edition revealed

The 2014 Volkswagen Beetle GSR Limited Edition is being showcased at the 2013 Chicago Auto Show and is inspired by the 1970’s Beetle GSR, also known as the ‘Yellow Black Racer’. Volkswagen has announced that, like its predecessor, only 3 500 VW Beetle GSR models will be made available worldwide, with more than half to be sold in the U.S.

2014 Volkswagen Beetle GSR is a special model

The 2014 Volkswagen Beetle GSR boasts an up-rated version of the award winning EA888 2.0-litre turbocharged inline four-cylinder TSI engine that generates 157kW of power with a maximum torque figure of 281Nm at 1 700rpm. The Beetle GSR accelerates from 0-100km/h in 6.6 seconds and reaches an electronically governed top speed of 209km/h.

The GSR is fitted with a standard 6-speed manual transmission, while a dual clutch DSG 6-speed automatic transmission will be available as an option.

Exterior Features

The bodyshell of the 1973 GSR (Gelb Schwazer Renner) Beetle was painted yellow while the hood, trunklid and bumpers were finished in matte black. Rounding off the look were black trim strips underneath the side windows and black rocker panels.

On the new Beetle GSR, the R- line bumpers are predominantly yellow and the hood is mainly black. The trunklid, roof and exterior caps are all black. Completing the look is a large rear spoiler and yellow/black stripes with GSR lettering above the side skirts and a panoramic sunroof. The three-color ambient lighting consists of Bi-Xenon headlights with LED Daytime Running Lights and LED license-plate lighting. The 2014 Beetle GSR rides on 19-inch ‘Tornado’ alloy wheels with black-painted brake callipers.

Interior Features

The interior of the Beetle GSR continues with the unique yellow/black theme and is fitted with sport seats and a leather sport steering wheel. The black trimmed leather sport seats and high grip leather steering wheel both have contrasting yellow stitching. Other changes to the interior include an R-Line dash pad, a GSR shift lever, a leather handbrake lever, aluminium-alloy pedals and black floormats with yellow embroidery.

To further emphasise the car’s uniqueness, a badge on the steering wheel is marked with the special-edition number 1 through to 3 500. The GSR is also comprehensively equipped with the Fender Premium Audio System, keyless access with push button start and Bluetooth connectivity. The Media Device Interface (MDI) with iPod cable also includes three auxiliary instruments that include a clock with a stopwatch function and a boost gauge.

Volkswagen shows performance inspired R-Line Beetle Convertible

Volkswagen is also showcasing the all-new Beetle Convertible with R-Line trim at the Chicago Auto Show. The Beetle Convertible R –Line joins the CC R-Line, Beetle R-Line coupe, Tiguan R-Line and Touareg R-Line at the 2013 Chicago Auto Show and will also be added to the Volkswagen line-up for the 2014 model year.

Interior and Exterior Features

The R-Line features unique 19-inch aluminium alloy wheels on lower profile all-season tyres. Additional enhancements include an R-Line badge on the front grille and Bi-Xenon headlights with LED Daytime Running Lights.

Inside, the Beetle Convertible R-Line features a sporty flat-bottom R-Line multi-function leather steering wheel. The dash and door trim are in ‘metallic-finish’ while stainless steel R-Line scuff plates, aluminium sport pedals, and leather sport seating surfaces further add to the interior’s appeal. .

Other interior features include the RNS 315 navigation system, Keyless access with push-button start, and the award-winning Fender Premium Audio System which delivers rich sound through a 10-channel, 400W amplifier with eight speakers and a rear subwoofer.

It is not confirmed whether the 2014 Beetle GSR and Beetle Convertible R-Line will be sold in South Africa.

VW Amarok Review

It’s the most comfortable bakkie yet, but small capacity engines are putting off buyers. It shouldn’t be the case though; the Amarok is capable and pretty.

VW Amarok review by John Beale

The Amarok in itself is not new to the roads, but VW did recently give it a slight update in the form of 12 more kW to the 2litre biturbo diesel engine, and changes to the clutch to make it more drivable in town. Sales haven’t been as high as they’d hoped, with around 500 units per month, which pales in comparison to the 2900 Toyota Hiluxes or 1500 Ford Rangers sold.

Design and interior features

There’s very little not to like about the looks. Manly square wheel arches, massive rear tailgate and familiar VW grille, but the wheels (18inch) are still too small for the arches. This however not the trump card of the VW Amarok bakkie. Get in and you’d swear you’re in a raised CrossPolo. High quality soft touch plastic, typical VW switchgear that thuds and feels just right. Comfortable seating (leather option) for driver and passenger and ample space in the rear for 5. No less than three 12V sockets, including one placed on top of the dash for GPS! Specification in the interior is rather slim; besides climate control and decent sound it’s bare. When compared to the Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux, there’s no Bluetooth, USB / Aux for radio, auto lights / rain sensor, heated seats, PDC or reverse camera. (Isuzu omitted, as the new model is imminent) Most of these can be fitted as options but then the price shoots skywards. Also, there is no ‘canopy window’ in the rear glass, but there is a high level light that illuminates the loadbed. It is a much more comfortable and quiet place to be than the Hilux or Navara, but it’s a tie against the Ranger from an interior perspective.

VW Amarok performance and handling

In what is probably the segment leading suspension and chassis set up for on-road dynamics in a bakkie, the VW Amarok is both confidence inspiring and comfortable. It doesn’t scuttle and shake around corners and the usual jitters and vibrations from a diesel bakkie aren’t there at all. The steering is perfectly weighted, without being too light, and turning circle is acceptable. It now puts out 132kW and 400NM between 1500 – 2000RPM, and is adequate for town driving. That said it puts out more power and torque than the Hilux D-4D! The bi-turbo makes it an extremely easy unit to drive, but I found it’s still a relatively small band of power to work with. Thankfully the 6-speed gearbox shifts easily in true VW fashion, and the tough “hump” on the clutch from the pre-update model is gone. The brakes with ABS and BAS (brake assist) were more than up to the job. ESP and Traction control was standard in Highline trim.

The 4×2 I had comes standard with diff lock as well as a button for off-road, which enables hill descent control and off road ESP and ABS. Basically it dials in the ideal amount of ABS and traction control which can be detrimental in mud or soft sand. With over 250mm ground it measures up well, but unfortunately I didn’t have a chance to take it for the full grilling off-road.

VW Amarok bakkie conclusion

The VW Amarok is the most comfortable, and best-looking bakkie on the road today. It has its weak points, with limited interior spec, and a fairly hefty price sans optional extras. There might also be the “concerns” about the yet untested long-term reliability of the smaller capacity engines, that said, I can’t say I’ve heard any horror stories, and word is there might be a larger 3-litre diesel on the way (rejoice). I’d be hard pressed to choose between the VW and the Ford as a “city” bakkie, but if you told me we were going anywhere out in the sticks, Hilux would be my choice, as reliability has been proven for decades and it’s not as ridiculously expensive or clunky as the Navara.

VW Amarok Price

VW Amarok BiTurbo Highline 4×2 –  R384 000

  • Includes: 5yr /90 000km service plan.
  • Optional up-weighting of GVT to 3Ton is possible.
  • View the VW Amarok: New / Used