Nissan Resonance Concept debuts at 2013 Detroit Auto Show

The Nissan Resonance Concept showing at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show is presented strictly as a design concept and signals Nissan’s future direction for its crossovers. Its futuristic aerodynamic styling and fuel efficient hybrid-electric powertrain proposes a new dynamic and edgy design that aims to set the trend in the popular crossover segment.

Nissan Resonance Concept is a stunner

Engine Capability

Although technical specifications haven’t been revealed, the Nissan Resonance Concept boasts all-wheel drive and a ‘one-motor, two clutch’ system that combines a smaller displacement internal combustion petrol engine with an electric motor/lithium-ion battery as well as an advanced management system. The Resonance also features Nissan’s next generation Xtronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

Exterior Styling Features

The Nissan Resonance Concept was designed to express an aerodynamic feel that is lightweight and protective, drawing inspiration from the ‘futuristic allure of hypersonic travel’. The exterior of the Nissan Resonance Concept shows the V-Motion which starts from the front grille and moves through the hood where it resonates with the iconic boomerang shaped headlights.

The use of thin steeply raked A-pillars, a large full-length glass panel and flowing D-pillar design creates the roof’s unique ‘floating’ design. These design attributes contribute to a spacious feel. The body is finished in Flare Orange and is strengthened by powerful surfaces and provocative lines, accented by the flow through the car to the kick-up shape around the D-pillar.

Other exterior features include a tinted acrylic grille with Satin Chrome accents and 22- inch full dynamic flow aluminum alloy wheels.

Interior Features

Exuding elegance and sophistication, the interior features light buttery leather and premium stitched seats, sequential welcome lightning, and natural wood pattern in the modern cabin.

The futuristic ‘VIP lounge’ sports an open glass roof to give passengers a panoramic view and elements like the roof lining add to the sense of space and airy lightness which is enhanced by the sculpted door panels and elegant, deep shape of the centre console. Other details include an advanced instrument panel that floats on a console creating a forum where a driver can access all infotainment and communication features. Technology is graphically layered to give a holographic experience and visual depth is used to separate information in order of importance.

“Resonance is meant to be provocative, energetic and engaging – even polarizing. Its edgy yet sophisticated design, combined with an environmentally sensitive powertrain and intelligent utility provides a clear, exciting view into the future of crossover innovation,” said Francois Bancon, Nissan Motor Co. division general manager, Product Strategy and Planning.

Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 Alpine Edition in South Africa?

Chrysler South Africa, importer of Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge brand vehicles is now offering the 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 Alpine Limited Edition to customers in South Africa. Only 95 units of the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 Alpine Edition will be made available.

??Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 Alpine Limited Edition – Special Features

In addition to the standard Grand Cherokee SRT8 specifications, the Alpine Edition features a unique Bright White paintwork and a Black Vapor Chrome finish on the standard split 5-spoke, 20-inch alloy wheels. Other unique exterior appointments include a Jeep hood badge, Grand Cherokee door badge, front grille surround and inserts, rear light bar and step pad as well as a SRT8 badge accent on the rear liftgate.

Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 Alpine Edition – Price

Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 Alpine Edition – R864 990

New Chevrolet Corvette Stingray shown at 2013 Detroit Motor Show

The new Chevrolet Corvette Stingray is being showcased at the 2013 Detroit Motor Show. The Stingray incorporates an all-new frame structure and chassis, a new powertrain and supporting technologies, as well as a completely new exterior and interior design.

“Like the ’63 Sting Ray, the best Corvettes embodied performance leadership, delivering cutting-edge technologies, breathtaking design and awe-inspiring driving experiences,” said GM North America President Mark Reuss. “The all-new Corvette goes farther than ever, thanks to today’s advancements in design, technology and engineering.”

New Chevrolet Corvette Stingray takes performance to new heights

Engine Capability

The 2014 Corvette Stingray is powered by an all-new, 6.2-litre LT1 small block V-8 direct fuel injection engine which produces an estimated 335kW and 610Nm of torque. The Corvette Stingray races from zero to 100km/h in less than four seconds. This engine is mated to either a six-speed paddle-shift automatic transmission or an industry-exclusive TREMEC TR6070 seven-speed manual with active Rev Matching.

Exterior Styling Features

The Chevrolet Corvette Stingray features a carbon fibre hood and removable roof panel, composite fenders, doors and rear quarter panels, carbon-nano composite under-body panels and new aluminium frame that help shift weight rearward for an optimal 50/50 weight balance that supports a world-class power-to-weight ratio.

Signature lighting that includes frosted light-emitting diode Daytime Running Lights (DRLs), high intensity discharge headlamps and indirect white LED tail-lamps. The tail-lamps integrate functional aircraft-style air outlets for the available differential and transmission coolers.

The Corvette Stingray rides on new Michelin Pilot Super Sport 18 inch front and 19 inch rear wheels.

Interior Styling Features

The inside of the Chevrolet Corvette Stingray continues to feature the craftiness of real carbon fibre, aluminum and hand-wrapped leather materials, two new seat choices that each feature a lightweight magnesium frame for exceptional support available in Nappa leather trim, dual eight inch configurable driver infotainment screens and electric power steering.

At the core of the Corvette Stingray’s driver-focused technologies is the cockpit-mounted Driver Mode Selector, which allows drivers to optimise the car for their driving preference and road conditions via five settings: Weather, Eco, Tour, Sport and Track. Also, a premium 10 speaker audio system includes a bass box and two subwoofer and speakers with rare earth magnets that deliver greater sound quality with reduced weight and size.

2014 BMW Z4 Roadster shown in Detroit

BMW has lifted the wraps off the 2014 Z4 Roadster at the Detroit Auto Show which represents ‘the interplay of classical proportions and state-of-the-art technology’ according to BMW. The new BMW Z4 Roadster comes with new exterior features, detailed interior refinements, a new Hyper Orange design package and the availability of the full range of BMW ConnectedDrive features.

??2014 BMW Z4 Roadster offers choice of three powerful engines

The Z4 Roadster uses BMW TwinPower Turbo technology with three output levels available. The BMW sDrive28i is powered by a TwinPower Turbo 2.0-litre engine that produces 179kW with a maximum torque figure of 353Nm. Zero to 100km/h is achieved in about 5.5 seconds when mated to a 6-speed manual transmission and about 5.6 seconds with the 8-speed automatic transmission. Combined fuel consumption for this variant is rated at 9-litres/100km.

The sDrive35i variant is powered by a N54 TwinPower Turbo 3.0-litre engine that produces 224kW and 407Nm of torque. This variant accelerates to 100km/h in about 5 seconds when mated to a 7-speed DCT transmission (5.1 seconds with 6-speed manual). Combined fuel consumption is rated at 11.2-litres/100km. The top-end sDrive35 is is powered by a higher-output N54 engine that produces 250kW with a maximum torque figure of 450Nm. Acceleration to 100km/h will take about 4.8 seconds when mated to the 7-speed DCT transmission.

2014 ??BMW Z4 Roadster is stylish and sporty

The Z4 Roadster features a sweeping hood, long wheelbase, a low beltline and a low-slung rear end with a low seating position just ahead of the rear axle, which gives the driver and passenger an intense driving experience. The Z4’s hardtop is accommodated in the Roadster’s boot and when closed, seals the smooth flowing roofline while the large windows provide a sense of space in the cabin. The hardtop can be opened by pushing a button while the car is moving at speeds of up to 40km/h and takes 19 seconds to open.

Four round headlights complement the BMW kidney grille and the standard Xenon headlights have a slim design and feature LED light rings which emit daytime running light. The 3-D design of the headlights are further complemented with LED accent lights across the top of the headlights with the metal inserts bearing BMW lettering. Integrated indicators feature chrome-coloured surrounds while the side indicators feature a newly designed tapered surround adding to the appeal of the lights.

Eleven external paint finishes are available for the new Z4 including the new Mineral Grey metallic, Glacier Silver metallic and Valencia Orange metallic which can only be ordered together with the Hyper Orange package. The Z4 Roadster rides on newly designed V-Spoke 18-inch alloy wheels. An M Sport package is also available for the Z4.

BMW Z4 Roaster interior 

The 2014 BMW Z4 Roadster’s interior features a lively contrast of black and orange with the Alcantara door panel trim and the lower section of the instrument panel in orange. The black leather seats feature contrasting Valencia Orange stitching with an accent orange stripe flanked by two thin white lines, running down the centre section of the backrests and seat cushions. The Hyper Orange package also includes a metal weave trim strip which can be combined with decorative elements in high-gloss black for the door openers and gear lever. The central air vents are finished with high-gloss black surrounds and the iDrive control system’s folding Control Display are new features in the Z4’s interior. Kansas leather trim is offered on all three Z4 variants.

The new BMW Z4 can be expected in South Africa later in 2013.

Imperial Toyota Hilux in second place at 2013 Dakar Rally

Giniel de Villiers and co-driver Dirk von Zitzewitz had a excellent start to Stage 9 of the Dakar Rally when they led the first half of the two-part 593km special stage between San Miguel de Tucuman and Cordoba in Argentina on Monday. The pair have now moved into second place overall in their Imperial Toyota Hilux, 49 minutes behind leaders Stephane Peterhansel and Jean Paul Cottret (Mini).

??Technical problems provide challenge for Imperial Toyota Hilux

Despite an excellent performance by De Villiers and Von Zitzewitz, they experienced a faulty front brake disc that caused them to slow down in the second half of the stage which was followed by a puncture, which saw them narrowly miss their 14th career Dakar special stage win. After losing 10 minutes, the pair finished the stage in fifth place, 9 minutes 39 seconds behind the winners Nani Roma of Spain and French co-driver Michel Perin (Mini). Peterhansel and Cottret finished in third place.

Stage 9 was a nightmare for Qatar’s Nasser Al-Attiyah and Spanish co-driver Lucas Cruz (Buggy) who started the stage in second overall but had to stop numerous times due to technical problems, leaving their dream of a second Dakar victory in the dust.

Giniel de Villiers had the following to say, “Phew, what a day! It had started super for us, but again proved the old adage: the Dakar is unpredictable. It was a challenging stage which pushed our equipment to the limit, but our South African-built Imperial Toyota Hilux handled it well and I am very satisfied. I am naturally happy that we are now in second place. Even on bad days you can be strong.

Dirk von Zitzewitz commented, “At the beginning everything went well for us. Then on the second section a defective brake disc forced us to slow. Giniel kept a cool head and had the situation under control. The later tyre damage was simply bad luck. We gave it our all through to the finish in order to end the day on a positive note. Now we can look ahead, and are looking forward to the stage to La Rioja

??Dakar Rally – Stage 10

The 632km Stage 10 will take the field north from Cordoba to La Rioja in Argentina. The stage will start with a short 37km liaison section followed by a 353km special stage and a 243km liaison section to the overnight bivouac. This stage is expected to be fast with twisty roads on hard surfaces and with gravel and stones the order of the day as the track passes through wooded areas and barren plateaus. De Villiers and Von Zitzewitz hold fond memories in this area when they drove through it to victory in the 2009 Dakar Rally.

Read up on the previous days action at the link below

Dakar stage 8

MINI JCW Paceman debuts at 2013 Detroit Auto Show

The stylish Mini JCW Paceman showing at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show will be available in four versions including the MINI Cooper S Paceman, and as the seventh unique member to the MINI family, it will sell alongside the Hatch, Clubman, Convertible, Countryman, Coupe and Roadster variants. The MINI JCW Paceman features a new exterior design, lowered suspension and a redesigned interior.

MINI JCW Paceman – Specifications and Features

Engine Capability

The MINI Paceman will be offered with four engine options, including two diesel options and two petrol options. The petrol variants are powered by a 1.6-litre unit that produces 91kW with a zero-100km/h sprint time of 10.4 seconds and a fuel consumption figure of 6-litres/100km/h. The MINI Cooper S Paceman uses the same engine but has been uprated to deliver 137kW with a zero-100km/h sprint time of 7.5 seconds. Fuel consumption for this variant is rated at 6.1-litres/100km. Finally, the JCW Paceman offers 160 kW.

The diesel variant is powered by a turbocharged 1.6-litre diesel unit that produces 84kW with a zero-100km/h sprint time of 10.8 seconds. Fuel consumption is rated at 4.4-litres/100km. The flagship diesel MINI Cooper SD Paceman is powered by a 2.0-litre unit that produces 107kW. Zero-100km/h will take 9.2 seconds and this model has a fuel consumption figure of 4.6-litres/100km.

All models can be ordered with a six-speed manual gearbox as standard or a six-speed automatic transmission with Steptronic available as an alternative.

Exterior Styling Features

The contemporary and expressive body shape of the MINI JCW Paceman features prominent horizontal lines and dynamic curved surfaces. The upright front grille is completed with a hexagonal radiator grille and broad chrome surround. The side profile features long doors, while the blacked out pillars create a ‘floating’ roof concept.

Available in either black, white or body colour, the roof slopes towards the rear of the car ending at the integrated spoiler. The horizontal arrangement of the rear lights accentuate the car’s width which is a first for MINI and the Paceman is the only member of the brands line-up to be identified by a rear nameplate.

Interior Styling Features

The MINI JCW Paceman is a four-seater, with rear seats that fold down to expand the rear load-carrying capacity to a maximum of 1080 litres. Armrests have been integrated into the rear trim and front seats offer the driver a raised seating position.

The instrument panel includes a large central speedometer with black surround and decorative inner rings in high gloss black or chrome. The redesigned air vent surrounds are also a new feature while buttons for the windows have been moved to the door trim panel.

Safety Features?

The MINI JCW Paceman provides an extensive range of safety equipment which includes front and side airbags, side curtain airbags fitted in both the front and back of the car. ISOFIX child seat attachments are fitted in the rear and a tyre pressure warning system features on every Paceman.

Standard and Optional Features

Standard features include air conditioning, powered door mirrors and front sports seats, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system that also comprises of a DTC (Dynamic Traction Control) mode including EDLC (Electronic Differential Lock Control) and light alloy wheels in 16-inch and 17-inch sizes.

Optional features include Xenon Adaptive Headlights, Park Distance Control, an electrically operated glass roof and the MINI navigation system. Advanced infotainment functions will be available via MINI Connected.

The MINI JCW Paceman can be expected to reach South Africa in June 2013.

Infiniti Q50 sports sedan at 2013 Detroit Auto Show

The Infiniti Q50 sports sedan is currently being showcased at the Detroit Auto Show and sets the tone for the brand’s future design, performance and technology direction. The Infiniti Q50 will be launched in the North American market first before it makes its way to other markets later in the year. The Q50 can be expected in South Africa in the second half of 2013 and exact launch dates will be announced at a later date.

Infiniti Q50 brings sporty back

Engine Capability??

In North America, two engine options will be available while additional powertrains will become available as part of a global rollout. The engine options available in North America include a 3.7-litre V6 unit that produces 245kW with a maximum torque figure of 365Nm. This unit features Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVTCS) and Variable Valve Event & Lift (VVEL).

The hybrid model, with the Infiniti Direct Response Hybrid system with Intelligent Dual Clutch Control, combines a 3.5-litre V6 engine and a compact laminated lithium–ion battery with an innovative one-motor/two-clutch motor control. The V6 engine produces 50kW and 270Nm of torque while the combined power output is 268kW.

Both Infiniti Q50 models make use of an advanced 7-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission with manual shift mode and steering-column mounted magnesium paddle shifters.

??Exterior Styling Features

The Infiniti Q50 takes inspiration from the Essence concept car and features a dynamic character line that arises from it’s ‘double arch’ grille, flowing through the side profile like a wave before merging with the rear-end. The grille’s 3-D textured quality is made possible with the elaborately detailed waved mesh pattern surface with its chrome surround. The overall design is further enhanced with an arched roofline that flows to the Crescent C-pillars and is similar to those seen on the Essence concept.

The side character lines merge smoothly with the shape of the rear LED combination lights. The rear double-arch trunk line completes the overall rear-end design. Heated side mirrors and integrated LED indicator lights are fitted as standard while a power sliding and tilting glass sunroof will be optionally available.

Interior Styling Features?

The Infiniti Q50 interior was designed with the driver in mind and a wide range of customizable adjustments are available to the driver. The instrument panel is in line with the brands ‘double wave’ design tradition with an asymmetrical flow from the top of the cluster to the wide centre console. The driver has easy access to all key operations without having to alter driving position. The seats are a new ergonomic design that helps distribute weight across the surface of the seat which enhances both comfort and support. A choice of various interior fabrics and colours will be made available and include leather-appointed seats while the colour choice includes Wheat, Graphite and Stone.

The Infiniti Q50 makes use of the Infiniti InTouch telematics system which incorporates two touchscreens which effortlessly synchronize the car and driver to smartphones and USB devices.

??Safety Features

The Infiniti Q50 features a host of safety systems including Intelligent Cruise Control with Full Speed Range, predictive Forward Collision Warning, Forward Emergency Braking, Distance Control Assist, Blind Spot Intervention, Back-up Collision Intervention, Lane Departure Prevention and Active Lane Control.

Infiniti President Johan de Nysschen said. “This exciting new Infiniti Q50 stretches the boundaries of what a sports sedan can be, propelling Infiniti in a bold new direction.”

Honda Urban SUV Concept makes Detroit Auto Show debut

The Honda Urban SUV Concept has made its world debut at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show. The concept showcases the styling direction Honda may use for an all-new SUV that will be launched in Japan at the end of 2013 and will be available in other markets in 2014.

??Honda Urban SUV Concept – Design Features

The Honda Urban SUV Concept is intended to be a fun-to-drive and fuel efficient small SUV that incorporates ‘aspirational design, flexible packaging and next-generation connectivity targeting active lifestyle customers’, according to Honda. The Honda Urban SUV Concept features hidden rear-door handles giving it coupe-like styling.

The Honda Urban SUV Concept represents the expansion of vehicles based on Honda’s Global Compact Series which includes the Honda Fit and the Honda City.

The new small SUV from Honda will be based on the Honda Urban SUV Concept and will be powered by the fuel efficient Earth Dreams Technology and will be priced and positioned below the CR-V.

The small SUV will feature a centre-tank layout and will incorporate Honda’s configurable Magic Seat setup that can provide a wide range of passenger and cargo options including a fold-flat mode for maximising cargo capacity. The new SUV model will also feature next-generation telematics and a modern interior.

The new small Honda SUV will be manufactured along with the Fit at Honda’s new North American plant near Celaya in Mexico which is expected to open early in 2014. Honda’s growth and expansion of its small vehicle line-up will help Honda double worldwide production in its Global Compact Series to more than 1.5 million units by the end of 2016.

Toyota Corolla Furia Concept shown at Detroit Auto Show

The Toyota Corolla Furia Concept has been revealed at the Detroit Auto Show which hints at the future design of the next-generation Corolla. The compact sedan concept represents an exterior styling study by Toyota designers and builds on the brand’s product development priority to develop more dramatic and expressively designed vehicles.

“The Toyota Corolla Furia Concept is an early indicator of where our compact car design may lead in the future,” said Bill Fay, group vice president and general manager of the Toyota Division. “It blends a heightened emphasis on dramatic design and modern elements of high technology to generate curb appeal that will surprise a lot of people.”

Toyota Corolla Furia Concept features stunning design

The Toyota Corolla Furia Concept has been designed around the theme of ‘Iconic Dynamism’ and uses pure and simple elements to create a confident, decisive and recognisable design that will appeal to more youthful consumers. According to Toyota, the Furia Concept “features a more provocative, dynamic interpretation of a compact sedan that displays a more stable, athletic stance with 19-inch alloy wheels pushed to the vehicle’s corners with short overhangs to help emphasize its long wheelbase.”

The Toyota Corolla Furia Concept design includes a swept windshield with a sloped roofline and pronounced fender flares, creating a sense of motion, even while stationary. The front fascia features a blacked-out grille treatment that highlights the pair of sculpted LED headlamps that combine with the rear composite LED taillights to add a sense of technological superiority to the overall design. Carbon fibre elements are used in the concept’s wheel wells, rocker panels and the rear valance, which includes metal exhaust outlet surrounds, creating a sense of ‘modern athleticism’.

The Toyota Corolla Furia Concept stands 4.62m in length, 1.805m wide with a height of 1.425m and a wheelbase of 2.7m.

Giniel de Villiers holds third at Dakar Rally

Giniel de Villiers and co-driver Dirk von Zitzewitz have managed to retain their overall third place position after a gruelling week at the 2013 Dakar Rally. Friday’s Stage 7 between Calama in Chile and Salta in Argentina went well for the duo who finished the stage without problems and continue to lead the four-wheel drive petrol T1.1 class in their Imperial Toyota Hilux Bakkie.

Rain causes delay for Giniel de Villiers on Stage 8

Stage 8 of the Dakar Rally commenced on Saturday 12 January 2013 and was the longest stage of the week, covering a distance of 849km between Salta and San Miguel de Tucuman in Argentina. Torrential rains and flooded rivers resulted in special stage 8 to be reduced from 470km to 185km. A swollen river 30km from the end of the stage prevented all but five cars from reaching the finish and race direction applied the slowest stage time of the finishers to all those who failed to finish. This decision has been contested by some of the competitors and the current results are subject to confirmation.

Stage 8 was won by Guerlain Chicherit and Jean-Pierre Garcin of France in a two-wheel drive SMG Buggy. Giniel De Villiers and Von Zitzewitz were among those who were unable to cross the flooded river. Current official results place Frenchman Stephane Peterhansel and Jean Paul Cottret in first place with Nasser Al-Attiyah and Lucas Cruz in second place, 3 minutes 14 seconds behind the leaders.

De Villiers and Von Zitzewitz are in third place, 44 minutes 3 seconds behind the leaders. ??“It was quite a challenging stage!” said De Villiers. “It went well for us. We started fifth and overtook Nasser when he suffered a puncture. Then we reached a river which was totally flooded. It was impossible to cross. We heard from the organisers that the rest of the stage was neutralised and that the result would be taken as at Check Point 2. It was a pity, as we were having a good run and would probably have been able to make up a bit more time by the end.”

??Stage 9 – Dakar Rally??

Sunday was considered a rest day with Stage 9 continuing on Monday with another tough stage over 293 kilometres San Miguel de Tucuman and Cordoba in Argentina. The cars start Stage 9 at approximately 2:03 PM (SA Time).