New Toyota Corolla Sedan revealed

With nearly 40 million units sold worldwide, Toyota has revealed the 11th generation best-selling Corolla. The new Toyota Corolla sedan comes with dramatically amplified elements of style, design, quality and craftsmanship.

The all-new 2014 Toyota Corolla was unveiled in two distinct guises on two continents. The Corolla sedan exhibiting European style was unveiled in Istanbul, Turkey, while another version, with a markedly different frontal design, debuted in Santa Monica, California. Both models retain styling cues from the Corolla Furia Concept which debuted earlier this year at the Detroit Auto Show.

New Toyota Corolla Sedan is the best ever

The 2014 Toyota Corolla L, LE and S trim levels will be powered by a 4-cylinder, 1.8-litre engine producing 98kW, and depending on the trim level, various gearboxes will be available with a six-speed manual for the L and S models, a seven-speed CVTi-S for LE, LE Eco and S, and an obsolete four-speed automatic for the entry-level L model.

Expressive Exterior and Interior Design

The new design was implemented to satisfy customer needs to shape key elements of the product on a global scale. The four-door sedan features clean lines and balanced proportions that impact a more sophisticated and contemporary look.

The front styling is based on Toyota’s two key design pillars – a narrow elongated upper grille that extends into the scalpel-sharp headlamp clusters and the now characteristic trapezoidal lower grille. All versions of the new Toyota Corolla sedan will feature LED low beam headlamps with LED daytime running lights. Three wheel sizes will be offered in 15-inch, 16-inch and 17-inch diameters.

The elevated interior experience comes in the form of a new horizontal dashboard design that dominates the centre stack and looks both more modern and sophisticated than the outgoing model.

Other dramatically enhanced interior features include the rear seat which has been pushed back 2.95 inches, a thinner front seat back which adds more legroom for rear passengers, and a flatter rear floor because the exhaust pipe is routed beneath the vehicle. Two different gauge clusters will be offered; one for L, LE and ECO models, and one for S model.

Standard Equipment

Standard equipment for the new Toyota Corolla sedan includes eight airbags, Bluetooth hand-free phone and audio-streaming connectivity, and depending on the trim level equipment such as back-up monitor, power moonroof, touchscreen radio, smart key / push-button start, SofTex seats, apps accessible via the audio head unit, heated front seats, and navigation will be optional.

Toyota SA Motors’ Lettie Labuschagne, General Manager of Product Planning, confirmed that visually the European car is very similar to the model that will be launched in South Africa early in 2014.

Geely Emgrand EC7 EV Revealed

Geely has revealed an all-new electric vehicle which is an expansion of its Emgrand EC7 which was launched recently in South Africa. The Geely Emgrand EC7 EV is aimed at expanding the Chinese market and will be developed in conjunction with Detroit Electric, an American company who have entered into a strategic partnership with Geely to co-develop electric vehicles and powertrains.

Geely Emgrand EC7 EV is electric all the way

The Geely Emgrand EC7 EV will feature an electric motor, a twin-speed gearbox and an advanced battery pack with two options. the vehicle will feature medium range with up to 165 km and a long range with up to 258 km. The car is expected to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in less than eight seconds, with a top speed in excess of 200 km/h.

EV market grows in China

The Geely Emgrand EC7 EV will initially be aimed at fleets and local government in China with sales expected to reach 3 000 units in its first full year on the market. The partnership also calls for Geely and Detroit Electric to work together to jointly engineer and develop all areas of the EV power train solution, including the electric motor, the vehicle management system, advanced thermo-managed battery packs, battery management systems and a twin-speed high-torque gearbox.

“Our partnership with a leading electric vehicle technology provider such as Detroit Electric will enable us to enhance and accelerate our own expertise and knowledge in this area. The Geely Emgrand EC7 EV will enable us to provide a wider vehicle choice to our customers and it also reiterates our commitment to providing alternate energy vehicles to the market in China,” said Emgrand President Mr. Feng.

The Geely Emgrand EC7 EV Detroit Technology is expected to go on sale in 2014.

International Engine of the Year award winners

The International Engine of the Year awards judged by a panel of 67 automotive journalists from 35 countries has named the three-cylinder EcoBoost engine by Ford as the Engine of the Year.

Other noteworthy victories included Ferrari’s 6.3-litre V12 engine found in the F12 Berlinetta which took the Best Performance Engine as well as winning the over 4.0-litre category. Audi’s 2.5-litre turbocharged five cylinder took an award in its category for the fourth straight year.

Here is a list of the different category winners

International Engine of the Year

Ford 999cc three-cylinder turbo – which can be found in the Ford Fiesta, B-Max, Focus, C-Max, and Grand C-Max.

Best New Engine

Volkswagen 1.4-litre turbo – which can be found in the Volkswagen Polo, Beetle, Golf Variant, Golf Plus, Golf Cabriolet, Scirocco, Eos, Jetta, CC, Tiguan, Touran/Cross Touran, Passat, Audi A1 and A3.

Best Green Engine

Fiat 875cc two-cylinder turbo CNG – available in Europe in the Fiat Panda and 500L and Lancia Ypsilon models.

Best Performance Engine

Ferrari 6.3-litre V12 – which can be found in the Ferrari F12 Berlinetta.

Sub 1.0-litre

Ford 999cc three-cylinder turbo – found in the Ford Fiesta, B-Max, Focus, C-Max, and Grand C-Max.

1.0-liter to 1.4-litre

Volkswagen 1.4-litre TSI Twincharger – which can be found in the Volkswagen Polo, Beetle, Golf Variant, Golf Plus, Golf Cabriolet, Scirocco, Eos, Jetta, CC, Tiguan, Touran/Cross Touran, Passat, Audi A1, A3 and Seat Ibiza.

1.4-litre to 1.8-litre

BMW-PSA 1.6-litre turbo petrol – available in the Mini Cooper S, Clubman Cooper S, Paceman Cooper S, Cooper Works, Clubman Cooper Works, Coupe/Roadster Cooper Works, Paceman Cooper Works, Peugeot 207cc, 208, 308, 3008, 508, 208 GTI, RCZ, Citroen DS3, C4 Picasso/Grand Picasso, C5/DS5, C4/DS4.

1.8-litre to 2.0-litre

BMW 2.0-litre twin-turbo four cylinder – which can be found in the BMW 125i, 320i, 328i, 520i, 528i, Z4 20i, Z4 28i, X1 28i, and X3 20i.

2.0-litre to 2.5-litre

Audi 2.5-litre turbo – available in the Audi TT RS, RS3, and Q3 RS.

2.5- to 3.0-litre

Porsche 2.7-litre DI – available in the Porsche Boxter and Cayman models.

3.0-liter to 4.0-litre

McLaren 3.8-litre V8 – found in the McLaren MP4-12C.

Above 4.0-litre

Ferrari 6.3-litre V12 – available in the Ferrari F12 Berlinetta

Ford EcoBoost wins International Engine of the Year award

The 1.0-litre Ford EcoBoost engine has won the International Engine of the Year award for the second consecutive year, a remarkable achievement for the Ford Motor Company. The company is set to double production of the winning engine at its Engine Plant in Germany from mid-August to more than 1000 engines a day to meet demand.

Breakthrough tech in Ford EcoBoost engine

“With a technology as mature as the internal combustion engine, it’s very rare to achieve a true breakthrough, but that is exactly what the team accomplished with this engine,” said Joe Bakaj, Ford vice president, Global Powertrain. “You have to drive it to believe a small three-cylinder engine can deliver such performance and fuel economy.”

To provide lower fuel consumption without sacrificing power, the 1.0-litre EcoBoost combines direct fuel injection, turbocharging and variable valve timing. The engine also won the ‘Best Engine Under 1.0-litre’ category at the annual awards presented by Engine Technology International magazine.

The awards were judged on drivability, performance, economy, refinement and the success application of advanced engine technology. In the 15-year history of the awards, Ford is one of the brands to record back-to-back victories. The Ford 1.0-litre EcoBoost also has won the International Paul Pietsch Award 2013 for technological innovation at German magazine Auto Motor und Sport Best Cars Awards and the Dewar Trophy from the Royal Automobile Club in Great Britain, a Breakthrough Award from Popular Mechanics magazine in the U.S.

In South Africa, the 1.0-litre Ford  EcoBoost engine is currently offered in the Fiesta and will also be a part of the EcoSport range, coming later this year.

New car launches for May 2013

A host of new, upgraded and exciting cars were launched in South Africa during the month of May 2013. Here is a list of the new cars that were launched.

Mercedes Benz GL – from R966 246

Mercedes Benz launched the new high performance GL-Class variants which come in three engine options and are fitted with high quality interior materials and feature a host of safety options.

Chevrolet Spark – from R101 500

The Chevrolet Spark celebrated its first year of South African production with a revised range consisting of five different and distinct models featuring the same high levels of passenger comfort and safety.

Geely Emgrand EC7 – from R149 990

Geely launched the luxurious EC7 featuring high end active and passive safety features, and is the first sedan to achieve five stars in the Chinese NCAP collision test.

Renault Fluence – from R214 900

Renault launched the revamped the Fluence sporting modern styling and on-board technologies perfectly in phase with the needs of international markets. The Fluence is available in two variants, the Expression or Dynamique.

Fiat Panda – from R139 990

Fiat launched the third generation Panda available in 2 trim levels (Pop and Lounge), 7 body colours, 3 interior trim colours and 14-inch steel and 15-inch alloy wheels.

Toyota Yaris – from R141 000

Toyota fine tuned its Yaris line-up which is available exclusively in five-door format and will have the previous Xs specifications at a lower cost.

Citroen DS3 Cabrio – from R219 900

Citroen launched the DS3 Cabrio as an addition to its DS line. The Cabrio is fitted with sophisticated features and uses intelligent design innovation to make the top-down attractive and enjoyable to drive.

BMW 5-series – from R506 975

BMW unveiled the updated its 5-series line-up which now features more power in form of 167kW 3.0-litre engine, and enhanced styling to the cabin. All variants will also be available with an optional M Sport Package which features a new M steering wheel LED fog lights, and Nappa leather upholstery.

Nissan Juke – from R249 900

Nissan introduced the new CVT automatic and All-Wheel-Drive versions of the Juke to join the existing four-model line-up. The new models sport bold looks, a sporty interior and an electrifying drive with the new transmissions.

Land Rover Discovery 4 – R598 600

Land Rover launched the Discover 4 XS model which according to the brand is essentially an expedition vehicle designed for robust, overland work and to cater to the adventure market.

Kia Cerato – from R219 995

Kia launched the all-new Cerato sporting a plush profile with futuristic and dynamic styling. The model is available in a choice of two petrol engines and features three different types of instrument cluster designs across the range.

Ford Everest – R447 900

Ford upgraded the seven-seat SUV featuring a number of exterior and interior enhancements, including an electronic shift-on-the-fly system that allows the driver to shift the driving mode from 2WD to 4WD at high driving speeds of up to 100km/h.

Ford Fiesta ST – R254 500

Ford launched the current popular version of its Fiesta range, the ST which is said to deliver remarkable levels of performance, design, and quality to offer an unsurpassed driving experience.

BAW Sasuka – R275 990

BAW announced the introduction of a new 16-seater Sasuka minibus taxi which will be assembled in South Africa and will be equipped with a 110kW 2.7-litre engine.

Used car analysis for May 2013

New statistics derived from Cars.co.za for the month of May show that the interest of the South African public in particular used car brands and used car models is strengthening every month. In May 2013 a total of 1 280 426 views were made on vehicles on Cars.co.za which is a 3% increase in views from last month’s 1 241 316. Here is a breakdown of the most popular used cars in South Africa for May 2013 according to cars.co.za statistics, as well as the most popular used car brands.

Top 10 most popular Used cars in South Africa for May 2013

Model Total views Used Car Market Penetration
1. BMW 3 Series 81 089 6.3%
2. Volkswagen Polo 55 237 4.3%
3. Volkswagen Golf 46 947 3.6%
4. Mercedes Benz C-Class 44 577 3.4%
5. Audi A4 36 941 2.8%
6. Toyota Corolla 33 941 2.6%
7. Audi A3 29 228 2.2%
8. Toyota Hilux 24 795 1.9%
9. BMW 1 series 24 604 1.9%
10. Volkswagen Polo Vivo 20 060 1.5%

The most sought after used car in South Africa is still the BMW 3-Series with an increased market penetration percentage of 6.3%. Interestingly, South Africa’s second best selling car for 2013 the Volkswagen Polo, also maintains the second position in the used car market with a total of 2688 new car sales and a used car market penetration of 4.3. Further emphasizing just how much South African car buyers love the Polo, both new and used.

Most popular used car brands in South Africa for May 2013

Used Car Brand Total Views Used Car Market Penetration New Car Market Penetration*
Volkswagen 187 366 14.6% 17.8%
BMW 159 888 12.4% 4.6%
Toyota 151 424 11.8% 19.2%

*According to official NAAMSA sales figures for May 2013

Statistics from Cars.co.za also reveal that Volkswagen is considered to be the most popular car brand in the used car market in South Africa even though its market penetration percentage has dropped from last month’s 15.5% in May 2013. In the new car market in May 2013, Volkswagen holds second position with a market share of 17.8%, while Toyota holds the top position with a market share of 19.2% and BMW holds a greater market presence in the used car market with a penetration percentage of 12.4% compared to a low 4.6% in the new car market this month.

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.

Toyota Etios celebrates one year milestone

Since its launch in May 2012, the Toyota Etios has sold a total of 24 523 units and now ranks as a best seller on the South African market. To celebrate this one year milestone, Toyota has upgraded the model for 2013.

Toyota Etios gets upgrade for 2013

Engine Capability

The Toyota Etios is fitted with a 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder engine mated to a 5-speed manual transmission and produces 66 kW at 5 600 rpm and 132 Nm of torque at 3 000 rpm. This allows the Etios to sprint from zero-100 km/h in 11 seconds. Fuel economy is rated at 5.9-litres/100km for the sedan and 6-litres/100km for the hatch in the combined cycle.

The Etios features an enhanced noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) package which includes a switch from rubber engine mounts to more refined, sound-absorbing hydraulic mounts. The damper settings have been fine-tuned to filter out suspension noise and improve ride quality, making the new Etios range a lot quieter than before.

New Exterior and Interior Features

Enhanced exterior features include a new grille design which remains black for the Xi models while the Xs models get a chrome finish. Other alterations include body colour door mirrors across the range as well as a new exterior mirror. The new design of the Etios enhances aerodynamic performance with aero stabilising fins on the outer mirror base that contribute to ensuring handling stability and reducing wind noise. The rear end has also been refreshed courtesy of a new tail lamp design for both the hatch as well as the sedan.

The flagship Xs models receive newly designed front seats, which now have separate head rests as well as height adjustment for the driver’s side, additional cushioning and under-thigh support. The Xs lineup also benefits from a standard 2-DIN audio system and an Auto Up function for the driver’s electric window switch, while the Xi models now get pre-wiring for door speakers and instrument panel speakers.

Both models feature redesigned rear seats and ‘icy blue’ backlighting for the central instrument cluster.

2013 Toyota Etios – Price

View the new Toyota Etios

Toyota Etios 1.5 Xi Hatch R118 800
Toyota Etios 1.5 Xs Hatch R126 800
Toyota Etios 1.5 Xi Sedan R125 100
Etios 1.5 Xs Sedan R132 600

Prices include a 2-year service plan.

Most popular new cars in South Africa for May 2013

During May, a total of 37 019 new cars were sold which represents a gain of 6.3% compared to the 34 827 new cars sold in May last year. Light commercial vehicles, bakkies and minibuses accounted for 14 301 sales, representing an increase of 1425 units compared to the 12 867 light commercial vehicles sold in the same month last year. Once again this month the Toyota Hilux and VW Polo dominated the game, followed by the popular Polo Vivo.

Top five best-selling new cars in South Africa for May 2013

1. Toyota Hilux – 3076 units

Not only has the Toyota Hilux been South Africa’s best selling bakkie since February, but it’s also the biggest seller in the Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) segment even with a drop from last month’s 3227 units to 3076 units this month, the Hilux is still South Africa’s most popular bakkie. The Toyota Hilux is available in three body styles including the Single Cab, Xtra Cab and Double Cab. A wide variety of engine options are available and prices range from R182 700 to R475 900, depending on the model.

2. Volkswagen Polo – 2688 units

Moving up second position from last month’s third spot is the Volkswagen Polo with 2688 units sold. The Polo is a reasonably priced option for new car buyers in South Africa. It is also offered as either a hatchback or sedan and prices start from R157 000 for the 1.4-litre Trendline to the top of the range Polo GTI priced at R274 900.

3. Volkswagen Polo Vivo – 2645 units

Because it is well priced and aimed at the entry-level car market, the Polo Vivo continues to sell well and maintain its best selling title in the passenger car segment. The VW Polo Vivo is available as either a hatchback or sedan with a variety of engine options ranging from between 55kW and 77kW. Prices range from R108 300 for the 1.4-litre 2-door hatchback and R154 700 for the 1.6 Trendline.

4. Chevrolet Utility – 1853 units

The Chevrolet Utility sold a total of 1853 units for the month of May which is an impressive increase from last months 1628 units. The Chevrolet Utility is a cost-effective small bakkie, perfectly suited to transporting small capacity loads in thoroughly modern style and is available from R172 400 for the 1.3 diesel Club is R172 400 and R189 100 for the 1.3 diesel Sport.

5. Toyota Etios – 1507 units

Making its way back into the top 5 best selling cars for the month is the Toyota Etios with a total of 1507 units sold which is a slight drop from last months 1581 units. The Etios is also a popular choice amongst entry-level car buyers and for those who are budget conscious. The upgraded 2013 model is available as a hatchback or sedan with prices starting at R118 800 for the 1.5 Xi hatchback and R125 100 for the 1.5 Xs sedan.

The 2013 TopGear Festival

The TopGear Festival returns to the iconic Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on the weekend of the 15 – 16 June 2013.

This year the show brings with it a new lay-out for the street circuit with enhancements to the track allowing for greater overtaking possibilities and improved viewing for spectators. The festival will feature performances by presenters Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May.

Fans will once again be treated to an epic Formula 1 display, this time with the triple World Champions Infiniti Red Bull Racing and its hugely successful, record-breaking RB7 car. Formula 1 champion Mika Hakkinen will be there, along with TopGear’s mystery racing driver The Stig doing some Power Laps.

Further festival highlights will include Clarkson taking on The Stig with help from the fearless TopGear Stunt Team, a game of motorised sidecar polo and for the first time ever at TopGear Festival, South Africa’s very own Giniel de Villiers will showcase his Red Bull Toyota Dakar rally car.

Exciting adrenalin driven features include:

  • Stars and Cars
  • Live Stadium Show
  • Street Circuit
  • The Ultimate Village (VIP Experience)
  • The Motoring Village (exhibitor space)
  • TopGear Exhibition
  • Action Zone
  • 4×4 TrackFMX Displays
  • Stunt school
  • Performance Car Clubs, Classic Car Clubs
  • The Franschhoek Motor Museum 90th Le Mans Tribute
  • Family Field

The extreme Action Zone will host FMX bikes and a 4×4 area to keep motors revving; along with the Shell Stunt School, featuring professional drivers piloting vehicles through jaw dropping manoeuvres. Daredevil handbrake turns, multiple car donuts and high speed drifting is on the menu.

New at the show will be the Epic Go-Karting tracks, R100 per person gets you onto the karting track. Tickets will be on sale on the day at the Go Kart track.

For those who prefer driving in the slow lane, the People’s Park exhibition will suffice with latest models and accessories on show.

Get your ticket

The family package costs R1750 per family of four (two adults and two children under the age of 16).

Basic tickets are available for R250 to R2100 for an ultimate package

The Sunday Classic Family package on16 June includes:

  • 4x Classic tickets for the TopGear Stadium Show (1:30pm start)
  • 4x Standing tickets for the TopGear Festival Street Circuit Standing (9:30am start)
  • All day access to the whole Festival Area (9am-8pm)

Ticket giveaway

We are giving away 2 tickets to the TopGear festival in Durban for Sunday and 2 TopGear Season 19 DVD box sets to a lucky winner. Let us know which was your favourite TopGear moment and you could win! We will select the winner based on the Facebook comments.

* The prize doesn’t include transportation, you will need to make your own way to the event.

Comment on our Facebook post to stand a chance of winning .

For more information check out http://www.topgearfestival.co.za

Volvo Car Group boosts development of electrified cars

As Volvo continues to develop cars of the future, the unique technology solutions involved can be integrated throughout the electrification range. The strategic partnership between Volvo Car Group and Siemens was formed in 2011 and has resulted in the development of electrified cars that can also be charged faster and feature a more powerful motor.

“Adding the innovative fast charging solution will radically improve the time and mileage for the daily usage of the car. This will drastically improve the cost of ownership since the customer will now be able to drive many low cost kilometres per day. A quick 10-minute plug-in adds power for another 20km of driving,” said Lennart Stegland, vice president, electric propulsion systems, Volvo Car Group.

The new Siemens motor has a peak power output of 89kW and a torque of 250Nm with an acceleration of 0-70km/h in 5.9 seconds. Siemens is the main supplier of electric propulsion power train components for the forthcoming Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform, which enables sophisticated electrification at all levels – from different kinds of hybrids to pure electric drive, without intruding on interior or load space.

World-First innovation for Volvo Car Group

The new 22 kW fast-charger is the world’s first on-board charger that operates on a three-phase supply and is small enough to be fitted in an electric car. It uses a three-phase outlet, and a charge takes 1.5 hours, while an ordinary single-phase 230 V household outlet takes 8-10 hours, depending on the available current.

“We’re proud to have developed this unique solution. By offering more usable hours a day, we’ve taken an important step towards making electric cars more viable as a commercial proposition, in both the private and public sectors,” Lennart Stegland says.

Volvo Car Group in South Africa does not yet offer any of the Electric, Hybrid or Flexi-fuel models due to insufficient infrastructure, however, the brand does offer the most advanced and viable solutions for customers who want keep their carbon footprint to a minimum with the diesel engines that emit as little as 94g/km of CO2.