Jaguar XF and XJ get more engine choice for 2013

Jaguar has announced that it will introduce two forced-induction petrol engines to its range for the 2013 model year. A new 3.0-litre V6 supercharged petrol engine will be offered for both the Jaguar XF and XJ models while a new four-cylinder 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine will replace the naturally aspirated 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine of the XF. Both engines will be available with Jaguar’s Intelligent Stop-Start system.

Adrian Hallmark, Global Brand Director, Jaguar Cars, said “Jaguar currently has its strongest range of products for several decades. Our continued growth is dependent on two things; activating the awareness of the brand, and expanding our range to enable us to access new customers in both existing and emerging markets. The introduction of these two additional forced-induction petrol engines is integral to this ambitious plan.”

New Engines for Jaguar XF and XJ – Specifications

??3.0-litre V6 supercharged petrol engine

The new 3.0-litre V6 supercharged petrol engine available for theJaguar XF and XJ models is based on Jaguar’s award-winning 5.0-litre V8 engine and produces 250kW at 6 500rpm and 450Nm of torque at between 3 500 and 5 000rpm. This engine features technologies used in the 5.0-litre V8 such as direct injection, variable valve timing and aluminium construction which produces greater specific output and efficiency.

In the Jaguar XF, the new 3.0-litre V6 will allow for a 0-100km/h sprint time of 5.9 seconds while reaching a limited top speed of 250km/h. Fuel consumption is rated at 9.4-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 224g/km. Identical figures remain true when this unit is used in the XJ model. This engine is complemented with an eight-speed automatic ZF-transmission.

2.0-litre i4 turbocharged petrol engine

The 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine will replace the XF’s 3.0-litre V6 in 2013. This unit produces 177kW and 340Nm of torque and incorporates low-inertia turbocharging, direct fuel-injection and variable valve timing. This engine will accelerate the Jaguar XF to 100km/h in 7.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 241km/h. Combined cycle fuel consumption is rated at 8.9-litres/100km and with a CO2 emissions figure of 207g/km. This unit is also mated to an eight-speed automatic ZF transmission.

The efficiency of these engines are further enhanced with Jaguar’s Intelligent Stop-Start system which improves fuel consumption by up to seven percent on the EU combined cycle.

Ron Lee, Group Chief Engineer Powertrain, Jaguar Cars, said “Both the 3.0 V6 S/C and 2.0 Turbocharged make intelligent use of forced-induction technology to produce high-specific output in an efficient way, while delivering the compelling combination of flexibility, refinement and driver reward that are integral attributes in all Jaguar engines.”

2014 Ford Fiesta to get MyFord Touch infotainment system

Ford has announced that it will offer the MyFord Touch infotainment system for the 2014 Ford Fiesta. The MyFord Touch infotainment system builds on the success of the familiar Ford SYNC in-car connectivity system and features improved voice recognition, navigation and phone pairing.

??New Features for 2014 Ford Fiesta

The MyFord Touch infotainment system will be paired with a new 6.5-inch LCD touch screen and will feature simplified Bluetooth phone pairing and more natural voice recognition. For example, drivers now only have to say ‘play’ when requesting a specific artist, song, album or genre of music. The system also uses the latest version of Nuance’s speech software, VoCon 3200 V4.2 which improves overall voice recognition performance.

A flattened audio command structure allows users to simply access audio sources such as ‘Radio’ and ‘Sirius’. Users now only have to say ‘AM 760’ or ‘CNN’ to access those sources. Navigation controls have also been simplified with an improved destination entry screen that makes it easier to enter a destination address.

More than five million vehicles have been sold with the Ford SYNC in-car connectivity system since its launch in 2008 and the MyFord Touch infotainment system seeks to make technology affordable and accessible to everyone.

“Technology features are important to all of our customers including small car buyers, and MyFord Touch continues to drive up purchase consideration of our vehicles. MyFord Touch is appealing to customers, as it consistently ranks among the top 10 purchase considerations with new owners. We’re excited to bring it to the small car segment, where it will really help Fiesta stand out from the crowd” says Michelle Moody, Ford cross-vehicle marketing manager.

How to pack your car this holiday

As the holiday season approaches, many South Africans are preparing to take to the roads to reach destinations around the country. When it comes to packing a vehicle, motorists should take care to pack their vehicles correctly to ensure the safety of all passengers and other road users. Goodyear has provided some handy tips for packing your car, here’s what you need to know.

Car packing tips

  • Safety first – Avoid carrying passengers unrestrained due to large, bulky items. Install child seats before packing the vehicle as you may not be able to do so once the vehicle is loaded. Passenger safety and comfort always comes first.
  • ‘Last in, first out’ – Be mindful of ‘must haves’ and pack all the items you will need during your journey last. This will ensure that they are easily accessible on the road when you need them. Make sure you have enough food, drinks, nappies, medicine and kids entertainment to last the duration of your journey.
  • Secure luggage – Avoid loose items around the driver’s feet. Always pack heavier items at the bottom of the boot and as far forward as possible to lower the centre of gravity. Do not store luggage items in the passenger cabin as these could be dangerous in an emergency situation.

    

“Tests of leading automotive clubs have illustrated how dangerous a simple glass bottle or kids’ toy can become during an emergency braking situation. An item that seems to be light at first sight accelerates enormously in the event of emergency braking – even at relatively low speeds, hitting front passengers with a multiple of its actual weight,” says Liz Hayward, Goodyear Group Brand Communications Manager.

  • Avoid over packing – Avoid packing above the line of the back seats. Over packing can reduce the driver’s rear vision and loose luggage items can be dangerous in an emergency braking situation. Use a cargo net to secure the luggage or as an alternative, use a trailer, roof racks or a roof box for additional luggage items.
  • Plan for a puncture – If you don’t have RunOnFlat tyres fitted to your car, ensure that you get all passengers to a safe place before preparing to change a tyre or calling for help.
  • Roof Packing – Care should be taken to consider the extra height, weight and resistance when loading items onto the roof of your car. Roof loads increase drag and roof luggage should be stored in a roof box with respect to the weight restrictions of the car.
  • Pets – To ensure the safety of pets and passengers in the event of an emergency situation, keep all pets secured using a safety harness or transport them in well-ventilated crates.
  • Adjust Driving – The manoeuvrability of a vehicle changes when heavily loaded. The extra baggage and additional passengers’ means there are more distractions, less visibility and the stopping distance of the vehicle is much longer.

Remember, obey the rules of the road, respect other road users and don’t drink and drive.




E Toll bill withdrawn in Parliament

The highly controversial transport laws and related matters amendment bill was withdrawn on Thursday 22 November from the National Assembly. The ANC asked that two resolutions paving the way for the bill be withdrawn. No reasons were given for the action and the request was approved by the House.



A memorandum attached to the bill includes provisions that are essential to implement e-tolling and the Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project (GFIP) as well as other proposed road and infrastructure projects in South Africa. 



Ian Ollis, DA spokesperson said that “pressure from opposition parties has pressed the ANC to withdraw. This means that the Gauteng e-toll will not be the anticipated lump of coal in Christmas stockings this year.” 



Buckling under pressure



After a call by DA chief whip Watty Watson which was supported by other parties, and a threat by the opposition to stage a walkout during the debate on the e-toll bill, the ANC withdrew the bill.

The e-toll debate will be carried over into the new year and will be re-considered when Parliament reconvenes on 10 February 2013. The bill will then be sent to the National Council of Provinces.

“This is indeed a victory for opposition parties and the South African public. We will be monitoring the situation closely to ensure that all proper processes are followed when this bill is considered by Parliament in 2013 and that adequate public participation has taken place through the NCOP,” Ollis said.

New Jaguar XFR-S headed for LA Auto Show debut

The new Jaguar XFR-S sedan will be unveilled at the Los Angeles Auto Show at the end of this month. The new Jaguar XFR-S is considered to be the ‘fastest and most powerful sedan Jaguar has ever produced. The new Jaguar F-TYPE and 2013 Range Rover will also be shown.

New Jaguar XFR-S, F-TYPE and Land Rover models on show

In addition to the global debut of the new Jaguar XFR-S at the LA Auto Show, Jaguar will be introducing the new F-TYPE in Black Pack performance trim. The rear-wheel drive, two-seat, soft-top convertible sports car is built on a lightweight aluminium architecture and delivers a pure sports car experience. First unveiled at the 2012 Paris Motor Show, the F-TYPE is powered by a 335kW/450Nm 3.0-litre supercharged V6 engine while the F-TYPE V8 S is powered by a 488kW/624Nm 5.0-litre supercharged V8 engine.

Jaguar Land Rover will also be showcasing the new 2013 Range Rover which is the world’s first SUV to feature a lightweight all-aluminium body. The US spec version will be powered by a 5.0-litre V8 engine and weighs up to 380kg’s less than the outgoing model.

Details regarding the specifications of the new Jaguar XFR-S sedan will be made available on the 28 November 2012 at the LA Auto Show.

Geely MK2 limited edition for South Africa

Chinese car manufacturer, Geely South Africa has launched the limited edition Geely MK2 hatchback in South Africa which is now offered with a range of additional safety and luxury features. The Geely MK2 1.5 GL Limited is now available from Geely dealerships nationwide, at an affordable price.

“Our products are fast becoming better – better performance, better safety and most of all better value for money,” says Henri Meistre, Managing Director of Geely South Africa.

??Geely MK2 Limited Edition offers value for money

Engine Capability

The Geely MK2 1.5 GL Limited Edition is fitted with a 1.5-litre DOHC 16-valve engine that produces 69kW and 128Nm of torque and is mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox. Average fuel consumption is rated at 7.3-litres/100km and the MK2 Limited has a range of 600km on a full 45-litre tank of fuel. The MK2 has a top speed of 165km/h.

Standard Features??

The Geely MK2 1.5 GL Limited Edition comes with power steering, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), electric windows, central locking, air-conditioning, Radio/CD player with MP3 and USB ports, alloy wheels, driver’s airbag and a Reverse Radar to assist with parking.

The Geely MK2 1.5 GL Limited is also fitted with a customised leather interior, a sport tuned exhaust system, lowered suspension and vinyl decals.

“The MK2 was specifically upgraded for the South African market, and is in high demand as we were only assigned a limited number of these outstanding value-for-money offerings,” says Meistre.

Geely MK2 Limited – Price

Geely MK2 1.5 GL Limited – R109 990

Price includes a 3-year/100 000km warranty with AA Roadside Assistance. A 2-year/60 000km, 3-year/90 000km and 4-year/120 000km service plan are available as an option.

TomTom releases Congestion Index for South Africa

Satellite navigation specialists TomTom has released its Congestion Index for South Africa, highlighting congestion levels in three cities including Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town.



How the Congestion Index works

The methodology that is used in the Congestion Index compares travel times during non-congested periods (free flow) with travel times in peak hours. The difference is expressed as a percentage increase in travel time. Local roads, arterials and highways are taken into account and all data is based on actual GPS based measurements and the sample size is expressed in total number of measured kilometres for the period.

The Congestion Index evaluates congestion levels in cities at different times of the day and different days of the week. The most congested day, average free flow speed, time delays and congestion levels on highways and local roads are also included.



Traffic congestion levels by city – summary

Johannesburg




Johannesburg is the most congested city in South Africa with a congestion level of 32%. The worst times to travel in Johannesburg are on Monday mornings and Thursday afternoons. The best times to travel in Johannesburg are Friday mornings and Wednesday afternoons. The most congested specific day in Johannesburg was 15 March 2012. Motorists travelling in Johannesburg can expect a delay of 37 minutes for every hour driven in peak hour traffic. 



Cape Town



Cape Town is the second most congested city in South Africa with a congestion level of 27%. The worst times to travel in Cape Town are on Monday mornings and Friday afternoons. The best times to travel in Cape Town are on Wednesdays. The most congested specific day in Cape Town was on 16 March 2012. Motorists driving in Cape Town can expect a delay of 34 minutes for every hour spent in peak hour traffic. 



Durban



Durban is the least congested city in South Africa with a congestion level of only 16%. The worst times to travel in Durban are on Monday mornings and on Friday afternoons. The best times to travel in Durban are on Wednesdays. The most congested specific day in Durban was on 23 May 2012. Motorists driving in Durban can expect a delay of only 15 minutes for every hour spent in peak hour traffic.

City Congestion Comparison



City Delay Congestion Morning Peak Evening Peak Highways Non-Highways
Johannesburg 37 mins 32% 88% 65% 18% 39%
Cape Town 34 mins 27% 82% 56% 23% 33%
Durban 15 mins 16% 45% 31% 13% 26%




Volvo V60 Diesel Hybrid Production Increased

Volvo Car Corporation is increasing production of its Volvo V60 Diesel Hybrid from 1 000 units for 2013 to between 4 000 and 6 000 units for the 2014 model year. The assembly of the world’s first diesel plug-in hybrid has now been integrated on the same assembly line used for Volvo’s other models at the Torslanda plant in Gothenburg, Sweden.

Volvo V60 Diesel Hybrid production is a world first

“We are first in the industry to integrate a plug-in hybrid in an established production flow together with other car models. The integration in the standard production flow gives the plug-in hybrid buyer the possibility to choose in principle all options available for the standard V60” says Peter Mertens, Senior Vice President Research and Development at Volvo Car Corporation.

The additional equipment and systems used for the  Volvo V60 Diesel Hybrid has resulted in parts of the final assembly line being rebuilt and modified to allow for the smooth integration of 300 additional parts used for the V60 plug-in hybrid compared to an equivalent V60.

For example, the electric motor along with its drive shafts is fitted on the same station as the final drive on the standard four-wheel drive models. The cooling system and the high voltage cables are assembled on the Pallet, which is used to assemble the car’s drive train and chassis parts. The battery pack is lifted in through the car’s tailgate, short side forward and it is then spun a quarter of a turn in the passenger compartment, a manoeuvre that takes 60 seconds and carried out with less than 20 millimetres to spare.

“The 11.2 kWh lithium-type battery is the single most complex system in the car. The precision manoeuvre to get it in place is an excellent example of the state-of-the-art assembly process,” says Peter Mertens.

Increasing demand for Volvo V60 Diesel Hybrid

The Volvo V60 Diesel Hybrid is the result of collaboration between Volvo Car Corporation and Swedish electricity supplier Vattenfall who have jointly financed the development project.

“The V60 Plug-in Hybrid is a unique car, a historic step not only for Volvo Car Corporation but for the entire car industry. The first year’s 1,000-car batch was sold out even before the car reached the showrooms and the order books for next year’s cars are already filling up,” concludes Mertens.

VW CrossPolo available with Urban Ice package

The VW CrossPolo is now offered with an optional Urban Ice package which is designed to improve the model’s exterior and interior styling.

??VW CrossPolo Urban Ice package

The Urban Ice package is exclusively offered in Oryx White pearlescent exterior paint which was previously only available on the new Beetle. The Urban Ice package further includes black roof rails, tinted rear windows, piano black-painted side mirrors and 17-inch black Budapest alloy wheels.

The interior includes a silver-painted centre console, black roof liner, heated Alcantara/Meteor sports seats and grey stitching for the carpets and hand brake housing.

The VW CrossPolo is available in two variants namely the 77kW 1.6-litre variant and the 77 kW 1.6-litre TDI.

Volkswagen CrossPolo Price?

Volkswagen CrossPolo 1.6 R217 200
Volkswagen CrossPolo 1.6 TDI R238 500
Urban Ice package R9 800

Nissan LEAF gets upgrades

Nissan has announced the release of the updated LEAF Electric Vehicle (EV) in Japan for 2013. An additional Nissan LEAF model has been added to the model range and a wide range of enhancements and equipment upgrades have been made. The Nissan LEAF is considered to be the world’s best selling EV, with over 43 000 units sold worldwide since December 2010. The Nissan LEAF will be introduced in South Africa in 2013.

Nissan LEAF gets style and equipment makeover

?Exterior and interior features

The 2013 Nissan Leaf features revised alloy wheels, optional LED headlights with auto-levelling, front fog lights and seven body colours to choose from including Dark Metal Grey, Brilliant White Pearl and White.

The interior is in elegant black with leather seats available as an option. Luggage space has increased from 330-litres to 370-litres and sound entertainment is provided by the BOSE Energy Efficient Series sound system. The multifunction display has also been updated while an Around View Monitor offers assistance while parking.

Powertrain Updates?

The electric motor, inverter and DC/DC converter is now integrated which has resulted in a 30% reduction in volume and a 10% mass reduction. The second-generation Nissan LEAF also weighs 80kg less than before thanks to its combined powertrain unit, integrated functions and streamlined battery module and case structure.

The Leaf’s range has also been extended from 200km to 228km at full charge. The Nissan Leaf is a zero-emission Electric Vehicle (EV) and does not emit any CO2 or exhaust fumes during operation.

The Nissan LEAF will be launched in South Africa in 2013 and further details regarding the South African line-up will be made closer to its launch.