2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class shown at Detroit Auto Show

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class has made its first appearance at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show. The company has dubbed the CLA a ‘style rebel’ which takes its design cues from the CLS and features leading aerodynamics, avant-garde coupe design and 4MATIC all-wheel drive. With its frameless doors, the four-door coupe carries the design of the Concept Style Coupe into series production.

2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA is big on style

Engine Capability

The CLA250 and CLA250 4MATIC are powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine that delivers 155kW with a maximum torque figure of 350Nm. The CLA is fitted with sports suspension and features 4MATIC all-wheel drive with fully variable torque distribution that improves traction and agility while providing higher levels of safety and efficiency. The CLA250 is fitted with a 7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission and ECO stop/start function is fitted as standard.

Exterior Styling Features

Striking features of the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA include its hood with power domes and the diamond-look grille. The headlight and LED arrangement behind the headlamp lens offers a ‘flame effect’ for the optional Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) and indicators and is a key aspect of the car. Three prominent lines provide structure with the front structural edge above the fenders flowing towards the rear in a characteristic dropping line. The second line spans the shoulder muscle above the rear axle while the third line extends in a sweeping curve from the front wheel towards the rear. These lines add depth to the CLA’s side profile.

The tail lights are framed by the muscular shoulder lines extending to the rear while the horizontal light layout emphasises the car’s stance and breadth. The C-pillars are drawn-in and the sloping roofline gives the CLA its distinct coupe styling. A large panorama sunroof is available as an option and the CLA is fitted with 17-inch, 5-spoke, two-tone wheels as standard.

Interior Styling Features

Standard trim for the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA is an Anthracite surface finish with additional trim options including burl walnut wood, black ash wood and aluminium. Five air-vents are included in the instrument panel with the outer rings in a high-quality galvanised finish. The CLA comes with the mbrace2 connectivity service giving users access to a range of online services and apps by linking to smartphones. A 5.8-inch display and Bluetooth are standard features for the CLA250 and the CLA250 4MATIC.

??Safety Features??

Standard safety features include the Attention Assist drowsiness detection and the radar-based Collision Prevention Assist with adaptive Brake Assist which offers collision protection. The Driver Assistance Package offers Distronic as well as Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist. Parktronic with Advance Parking Assist allows for autonomous parking in parallel and perpendicular parking spaces and is available as an option.

Although the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA made a brief appearance at the Detroit Auto Show, it will celebrate its official world premiere at the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in Berlin held from 5-18 January 2013. It is unclear if or when the CLA will make it to South Africa.

2014 Jeep Patriot and Compass make Detroit Auto Show debut?

The new 2014 Jeep Patriot and Compass models are currently on show at the Detroit Motor Show and both models feature a new PowerTech 6-speed automatic transmission which has improved fuel economy and performance. In addition, the Jeep Compass has also benefitted from a revised exterior and interior design.

2014 Jeep Patriot and Compass – Features

Engine Capability??

The Jeep Patriot and Compass are available in three derivatives namely the Sport, Latitude and Limited models. The Sport and Latitude models are powered by a 2.0-litre I-4 petrol engine that produces 118kW with a maximum torque figure of 191Nm. The Limited models are powered by a proven 2.4-litre I4 engine that develops 129kW and 224Nm of torque. The Sport derivatives are mated to a 5-speed manual transmission while the Latitude and Limited models are fitted with the new PowerTech 6-speed automatic transmission. Both the Jeep Patriot and Compass deliver 907kg of towing capacity.

Exterior Styling Features??

The Jeep Compass exterior design has been updated and includes an enhanced plated upper grille and mold-in-colour Billet Silver grille texture for the Latitude and Limited models. The headlamps now feature a black inner bezel on the Sport and Latitude models while the Limited models come with projector halogen headlamps with a black inner bezel and chrome fog lamp bezels. The Compass also gets painted mirror caps, taillamps with a ‘smoked’ inner bezel, a plated chrome insert on the tailgate trim and 18-inch aluminium wheels for the Limited models.

Interior Styling Features??

The Jeep Compass’ interior now includes a new trim option for the Limited model which is Saddle Brown perforated leather with accent stitching. The Latitude model includes a new sport mesh and vinyl seat with grey accent stitching while the Light Pebble Beige trim features a new Tangerine accent stitch on the seats. The armrests, centre console lid are wrapped in vinyl while the instrument cluster overlay graphics have been updated. The centre bezel, gear bezel and pull cups are finished in a satin chrome finish.

The 2014 Jeep Patriot and Compass can be expected in South Africa later in 2013.

New Renault Captur urban crossover revealed

Details of the new Renault Captur urban crossover have been released. The Captur features expressive styling with the driving position of an SUV, cabin space and modular interior of an MPV and the agility and driving dynamics of a compact saloon car. The new Renault Captur will be powered by both petrol and diesel engines and is expected to deliver best-in-class fuel consumption and CO2 emissions starting from as low as 96g/km.

New Renault Captur features ?impressive design

The Captur’s smooth, robust and compact appearance draws inspiration from the Captur concept car and features a steeply-raked windscreen, a raised ground clearance, large-diameter wheels and sill gaurds, making it a versatile urban all-rounder. The Captur is also easily customisable and will be offered with an original two-tone colour scheme which provides contrast between the roof and pillars and the rest of the body work.

Despite its compact footprint with a length of four metres, the new Renault Captur offers a sense of space with its generous interior dimensions. The Captur’s interior is MPV-like with its high-up driving position, large boot, modular interior and innovative stowage solutions. The Captur will also include hands-free entry, Hill Start Assist and rear parking sensors as well the new Renault R-Link touchscreen multimedia tablet including a sound system with six loudspeakers, Bluetooth connectivity, audio-streaming and Arkamys hi-fi sound.

The new Renault Captur is based on the same platform as the Clio and will be built at Renault’s Valladolid plant in Spain and will be officially unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2013.

De Villiers holds on to third place at 2013 Dakar Rally

Stage 6 of the Dakar Rally has been the longest so far and was the first stage to take place in Chile after five gruelling days in Peru. Stage 6 of the Dakar Rally totalled 767km with a 454km special stage that was expected to shake-up the leader board. However, no major changes occurred in the top four and Giniel de Villiers and Dirk von Zitzewitz managed to hold on to their overall third position, despite a frustrating delay on special stage 6 between Arica in Peru and Calama in Chile.

Leader board remains unchanged 



2012 Dakar champions Stephane Peterhansel and Jean Paul Cottret of France (Mini) are still leading ahead of 2011 champion Nasser Al-Attiyah and Spanish co-driver Lucas Cruz (Buggy). Al-Attiyah of Qatar was pushing Peterhansel hard and won his third special stage on Thursday, closing the gap between Peterhansel to just 1 minute 18 seconds. Peterhansel came in at second place followed by Americans Robbie Gordon and Kellon Walch (Hummer) in third.



Giniel de Villiers suffers delay 



Giniel de Villiers and Dirk von Zitzewitz in overall third are now 42 minutes 31 seconds behind Peterhansel/Cottret after losing approximately 12 minutes after being bogged down in soft sand to avoid the stranded Mini of Spain’s Nani Roma and France’s Michel Perin who had driven into a deep hole when De Villiers suddenly came upon them. Luckily for Peterhansel, Cottret waved him away from the sand trap and they continued on their way unscathed.

De Villiers said, “It was a frustrating incident and happened after we had been stuck behind Roma in his dust for some kilometres. We pushed hard afterwards to make up some of the lost time and are happy to have kept our third place in the race. There is still a long way to go. We will continue to race our race and do our best. It’s not about winning stages (Peterhansel has only won one), but all about maintaining a good pace each day and finishing without any major delay.”

Dakar Rally – Stage 7



Stage 7 of the Dakar Rally is a marathon 806km challenge from Calama in Chile to Salta in Argentina. Competitors will ascend the Andes Mountains in the small hours with all the drivers and riders in convoy for a 534km liaison stage which finishes at a record altitude of 4 975 metres above sea level at the top of Argentina’s highest mountain pass. The temperature is expected to drop to 15 degrees from highs of more than 40 degrees in the opening days. The 220km special stage will take place at altitudes between 3 400 and 4 000 metres, but the speedometer will rarely go below 100km/h.

Stage 7 of the Dakar Rally will commence on Friday 11 January 2013 at 3:33PM (SA Time).

Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG details revealed

Details of the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG 4MATIC have been revealed, which now features a redesigned, performance-orientated AMG all-wheel drive system as standard. The E 63 AMG 4MATIC will also available in a high-performance S Model. Mercedes-Benz, now for the first time offers powerful passenger cars with an all-wheel-drive system designed for vehicle dynamics while also offering more individuality than before. The Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG will be available as either a sedan or station wagon.

Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG 4MATIC brings power and class

Engine Capability

The Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG 4MATIC is fitted with a powerful 5.5-litre AMG V8 Biturbo engine that develops 410kW and 720Nm or torque. The high-performance S Model however produces 430kW with a maximum torque figure of 800Nm. These performance figures will accelerate the E63 AMG S Model to 100km/h in under 3.5 seconds while reaching an electronically limited top speed of 299km/h. Transmission comes in the form of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission which comes with four drive programs.

The performance-orientated all-wheel-drive 4MATIC system sends 33% of the engine torque to the front while 67% is sent to the rear axle, ensuring a high level of vehicle dynamics. The three-stage ESP system is specifically calibrated to the permanent all-wheel-drive system. Furthermore, the E63 AMG S Model 4MATIC is equipped with a limited-slip rear differential which further increases traction on the road or track.

Exterior Styling??

The Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG 4MATIC features AMG’s new design philosophy and key elements include the silver-chrome AMG ‘twin blade’ radiator grille and the so called ‘A-wing’. The three-dimensional air control element extends across the width of the front fascia and features a stylised ‘A’ which is distinctive of AMG vehicles. The ‘A-wing’ is painted in body colour with a silver-chrome strip framing the cooling-air inlets. A front splitter in body colour increases downforce.

Side air outlets, black mesh and the two chrome-plated dual tailpipes of the AMG sports exhaust system further emphasise the width of the car.

Interior Styling

In the S Model, depending on customer preference, the interior features grey contrasting seams on the AMG sports seats, door centre panels and door and centre armrests. Silver-coloured seat belts match the black interior while the Nappa leather steering wheel, which is flattened at the top and bottom, is finished with Alcantara on the grip areas. AMG crests are embossed into the head restraints of the AMG sports seats. Standard equipment includes AMG door sill panels backlit in white and power rear roller blinds. A Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround-sound system produces 1 200 W of power and includes 14 high-end speakers.

The Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG 4MATIC will be launched in the US in the first half of 2013. It’s unclear whether the E63 AMG 4MATIC will become available in South Africa.

2013 Tokyo Auto Salon to excite with Nissan vehicles

Nissan is joining this year’s annual customisation and aftermarket tuner show at the 2013 Tokyo Auto Salon with a range of unique models. The Nissan stand will provide a mix of factory-tuned vehicles and history-making racecars which will be highlighted by ‘Nissan’s New World of Customisation’.

Nissan to show off 10 vehicles at 2013 Tokyo Auto Salon

Nissan will be showcasing the following vehicles at the 2013 Tokyo Auto Salon:

  • Juke Personalisation Concept – Nissan will showcase a Juke that has been modified in a fun and fashionable way.
  • Note Personilisation Concept – This exciting example will showcase the ‘customised hot hatch’ and will feature a daring graphic motif that is called ‘digital camouflage’.
  • Juke Nismo – The Juke Nismo was developed by Nismo, one of the world’s premiere motorsports organizations and factory-tuning divisions.
  • Nissan LEAF Nismo Performance Package – Inspired by Nismo race machines, The LEAF Nismo features a special body kit with aerodynamic technology to improve overall stability and efficiency.
  • Fairlady Z Nismo Z-Challenge Spec – This specially-built racecar comes complete with safety equipment and other parts necessary for motorsports and will compete in the single-spec race series called the Z-Challenge and provides a safe and thrilling way for racing enthusiasts to enjoy driving on a racetrack.
  • Motul Autech GT-R – The Nissan GT-R won three out of eight races in the GT500 class of the 2012 Super GT Series. The S Road Mola GT-R won the Team Championships and Drivers Title for the second straight year.
  • Nissan GT-R Nismo GT3 – The Nissan GT-R Nismo GT3 made its debut in March 2012 and is an improved version of the 2012 model with a higher engine output, increased reliability and enhanced aerodynamics. The racecar is in compliance with FIA GT3 regulations and will take part in the Super GT, Super Taikyu and the British GT Championship.
  • Nissan Deltawing – The much acclaimed Deltawing racecar made its debut last year and uses half the fuel supply and tyres compared to a conventional racecar. The Deltawing competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans in June 2012 and finished 5th overall at the American Le Mans Series (ALMS) which took place in October 2012 in Atlanta, Georgia.
  • NV350 Caravan Rider Transporter – The NV350 Caravan Rider is custom-built and features grand styling with notable cargo capacity and is considered to be a commercial van for the new generation. It is a capable workhorse but is also the ideal leisure and recreational vehicle for those with an active lifestyle.
  • Note Rider – With its powerful exterior design, the Note Rider exhibits lots of flair for a compact car. The design is accentuated by a dark-plated front fascia and aluminum wheels which adds to its appeal.

The 2013 Tokyo Auto Salon will run from Friday 11 January until Sunday 13 January 2013 at the Makuhari Messe exhibition hall in Chiba Prefecture, Tokyo, Japan.

South African new car sales for December 2012

New vehicle sales in South Africa ended on a positive note in December 2012 with aggregate industry sales totalling 46 016 units, 1.8% (825 units) up on sales in December 2011, according to the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (NAAMSA). NAAMSA predicted industry growth of around 8% in 2012 which in the event now sits at 9.2% when compared to 2011 sales.

Summary: New vehicle sales in South Africa – December 2012

  • Total units sold – 46 016 units (+1.8%)
  • Year-on-Year volume improvement of 7.6%
  • Exports up by 39.2% or 19 719 units in December 2012
  • 2012 Industry growth of 9.2% compared to 2011
  • 439 997 new passenger cars sold in 2012, up by 11.3% compared to 2011
  • New vehicle related sales turnover up by 11% in 2012

Looking forward to 2013



NAAMSA predicts 7.3% growth in domestic sales volumes for 2013 based on the assumption that the South African economy will grow, in real terms, by around 3% in 2013, while also factoring in other domestic and international trends. 



Factors that will continue to support industry growth include

  • Low interest rates
  • Improved vehicle affordability
  • New high-technology model introductions
  • Easier access to vehicle finance
  • Continued strong replacement demand

Other positive factors include expected growth in the South African economy, economic stability, investment confidence, growth and employment, car rental industry demand and a sound and stable monetary and fiscal policy environment. 



Factors that will negatively impact industry growth include

  • Rising inflationary pressures
  • Upward pressure on interest rates towards the end of 2013
  • Global economic woes
  • Domestic and international geo political events



NAAMSA predicts that domestic vehicle production will increase from approximately 550 000 vehicles produced in 2012 to about 650 000 vehicles in 2013, an increase of around 18%. The industry aims to achieve a production figure close to 1.2 million vehicles by the year 2020.



According to NAAMSA, “2013 is likely to prove a more challenging year for the SA Automotive Industry. However, the Industry remains well positioned to continue to make a positive contribution to the South African economy, particularly if economic growth in excess of 3.0% materialises.”

?

Imperial Toyota Hilux in third at 2013 Dakar Rally

Giniel de Villiers and co-driver Dirk von Zitzewitz have consolidated their overall third place position after Stage 5 of the Dakar Rally in South America between Arequipa and Arica. The 2009 Dakar champions finished the stage in fourth place in their Imperial Toyota Hilux. De Villiers and von Zitzewitz are the only representatives left in the Toyota Imperial South Africa Team after Duncan Vos and Rob Howie were forced to retire on Tuesday after severely damaging their roll cage.

Close battle for Imperial Toyota Hilux

Spain’s Nani Roma and Michel Perin of France won the stage in their Mini while team mates and overall leaders Stephan Peterhansel and Jean Paul Cottret placed second. Americans Robbie Gordon and Kellon Walch (Hummer) came in at third place and are placed 36th overall after losing nearly six hours after their crash and radiator problems on Tuesday.

The competition for the Stage 5 honours was a heated affair with only 1 minute 51 seconds separating De Villiers/Von Zitzewitz in fourth and Roma/Perrin in first. The top 10 overall positions remained unchanged but Argentineans Lucio Alvarez and Roland Graue in their South African-built Imperial Toyota Hilux improved by two places to settle at 25th overall after losing three hours on Tuesday with a damaged suspension.

Giniel de Villiers said, “It was not a long stage but quite fast, twisty at the beginning. We had a small problem with the rear brakes – we lost a bit of rear brake, so we’ll have to look at what the problem is tonight, but other than that it was a nice stage and beautiful along the beach.”

Dakar Rally – Stage 6

Thursday’s Stage 6 will prove to be a challenge for competitors and is the longest stage so far. Stage 6 from Arica to Calama consists of a 313km liaison stage followed by a 454km special stage, which is the first special stage in Chile. The route takes competitors through the Atacama Desert which is the driest place on earth with sand and dunes for two thirds of the distance. Two specific sections of the stage will be timed and competitors will rediscover fesh fesh (powdered sand) which may pose a challenge for the drivers.

Stage 6 of the Dakar Rally starts at 3:33 PM (SA Time) on Thursday, 10 January 2013.

New Lexus IS sedan revealed ahead of Detroit Motor Show debut

Details of the new Lexus IS sedan have been revealed and is set to make its world debut at the 2013 Detroit Motor Show which kicks off next week. The new Lexus IS model range will comprise the IS 250, IS 350 and the first IS to feature Lexus Hybrid Drive, the IS 300h. F SPORT models will also be available across the full range. Unfortunately, Lexus has not provided technical specifications for the IS sedan as of yet and this information will be communicated next week.

New Lexus IS Sedan is a beauty

Exterior Styling

The new Lexus IS sedan takes much inspiration from the LF-CC Concept and features the new Lexus spindle grille frontal design, which asserts the IS’ presence on the road. Distinct character lines pass through the A-pillars and tighten up toward the rear, accentuating the wide flare of the wheel arches, giving the IS a broad, powerful stance. The passenger cabin gravitates more to the rear which adds to a sense of traction.

The new Lexus IS sedan features a new headlamp cluster design with Lexus’ trademark L-shaped Daytime Running Lights (DRL) independently below. The F SPORT models are distinguished with an exclusive grille and front bumper design. The F SPORT’s grille ‘waistline’ is higher compared to standard models which increases the lower grille area, allowing for the intake of more air for cooling the engine.

Interior Styling

The interior of the new Lexus IS sedan is inspired by the LFA supercar, creating a driver focused interior. The increased width and longer wheelbase drastically improves rear seat comfort and space while the 60:40 split/folding rear seats provide expansive luggage capacity. The IS sedan also features the latest advances in HMI technology as well as an analogue clock with surface-emitting illumination. The centre console incorporates Lexus-first electrostatic switches to control the air conditioning with the touch of a finger.

The seat hip-point and the angle of the LFA-inspired steering wheel have been lowered while the steering reach adjustment has been increased to create a more sporting driving position. F SPORT models feature the LFA’s innovative driver’s meter with a moving centre ring. The F SPORT models are detailed with a perforated leather finish to the steering wheel and gear lever, metal 3-D-effect ornamentation, black seat stitching and aluminium pedals and scuff plates. F SPORT models come with a choice of three interior colour schemes including the exclusive Rioja Red finish.

Further details regarding technical specifications will be announced next week when the new Lexus IS makes its debut at the Detroit Motor Show, stay tuned.

Toyota and Lexus showcase advanced active safety research vehicle

Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) and its Lexus Division have unveiled its advanced active safety research vehicle at the international Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Los Angeles which demonstrates ongoing efforts around automated vehicle safety technologies and outlines Toyota’s approach to reducing global traffic fatalities and injuries. The advanced active safety research vehicle is based on a Lexus LS and seeks to advance the industry towards a new era of integrated safety management technologies.

??Toyota works towards improving safety

Toyota’s guiding strategy is called the Integrated Safety Management Concept and incorporates a holistic vision which includes people, vehicles and the driving environment. The strategy is carried through the following five phases of operation.

  • Initial time the driver and car begin a journey from a parked position
  • Active safety systems designed to avoid a crash
  • Pre-crash aimed at preparing for a collision
  • Passive safety to help survive a crash
  • Rescue and response after a crash has occurred

Although the key components of this research could lead to a fully autonomous vehicle in the future, Toyota and Lexus envision technologies that enhance the skills of the driver, which is based on the belief that a more skillful driver is a safer driver.

“In our pursuit of developing more advanced automated technologies, we believe the driver must be fully engaged,” said Mark Templin, Toyota group vice president and general manger of the Lexus Division.”For Toyota and Lexus, a driverless car is just a part of the story. Our vision is a car equipped with an intelligent, always-attentive co-pilot whose skills contribute to safer driving.”

Advanced Active Safety Vehicle

The Lexus advanced active safety vehicle is fitted with an array of sensors and automated control systems used to observe, process and respond to the driving environment. Some of the technologies used includes GPS, stereo cameras, radar, Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) laser tracking.

This technology is able to scan movements of objects, identify traffic light colours and can measure the trajectory of the vehicle on the road. The 360-degree LIDAR laser detects objects around the vehicle up to 70 metres away. Three colour cameras can detect objects more than 150 metres away. Radars are used to determine the location and speed of objects at intersections while a distance measurement indicator measures the travel distance and speed of the vehicle. An inertial measurements unit measures acceleration and angle changes to monitor vehicle behaviour and GPS antenna’s estimate angle and orientation even before the vehicle is in motion.

The advanced active safety vehicle serves as a platform for developing systems that will help enhance the driver’s perception of the driving environment as well in assisting in the decision making process while improving driving skills.

This initiative forms part of Toyota’s new research toward an Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) which integrates the car with the driving environment. Toyota began operation at its 8.6 acre ITS proving ground in Japan in November 2012, which is modelled after a typical urban driving environment and incorporates the use of other vehicles, pedestrians and control devices.

“The real value of research projects like this is reinforcing our focus on what a few years ago seemed an impossible dream and is now becoming more plausible,” Templin said. “We, at TMC and Lexus, consider the elimination of traffic fatalities and injuries the ultimate goal of a society that values mobility.”