VW Sales in South Africa for March 2013

VW sales in South Africa revealed strength in March 2013 to claim second place as South Africa’s best-selling new car brand. Volkswagen is the most popular passenger car brand with the Polo Vivo and the Polo being the most popular in the Volkswagen stable. Here is a breakdown of VW sales in South Africa including critical sales figures, Top 5 model sales and the most popular Volkswagen used cars for March 2013.

VW sales in South Africa for March 2013

Total new car sales: 9 337 units
Total market share: 19.3%
Total passenger vehicle sales: 8 561 units (Segment share: 26.9%)
Total Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) sales: 698 units (Segment share: 5.0%)

Top 5 Volkswagen new passenger car sales for March 2013

Model	Sales
1. Volkswagen Polo Vivo	2 846 units
2. Volkswagen Polo	2 355 units
3. Volkswagen Golf	734 units
4. Volkswagen Amarok	632 units
5.Volkswagen Jetta 6	404 units

Top 5 Volkswagen Used Cars on Cars.co.za for March 2013

Model	Views
1. Volkswagen Polo	68 784
2. Volkswagen Golf	50 434
3. Volkswagen Polo Vivo	26 901
4. Volkswagen Citi	21 691
5. Volkswagen Jetta	13 760

Volkswagen in the news

Volkswagen eCo Motion concept joins Geneva lineup

New Volkswagen Golf Variant wagon shown

Volkswagen Golf 7 GTD shown

Volkswagen Golf 7 blitzes into Geneva

New Golf 7 Voted 2013 European Car of the Year

Volkswagen Amarok gets engine upgrade

Volkswagen all electric e up revealed

Shanghai Auto Show to reveal three new Ford models

Ford will present a 23 vehicle line-up at the Shanghai Auto Show, including all-new models for the Mondeo, the Fiesta ST and the Focus CTCC (Chinese Touring Car Championship) race car. The launch of the new Fiesta ST is an addition to Fords performance car segment.

Great Interactive Technologies at Shanghai Auto Show

Fords display at the Shanghai Auto Show will feature smart, green and safe technology displays such as the Boostical display which will allow visitors to generate their own music videos to communicate the power and efficiency of EcoBoost engines. Ford will also display its voice-activated SYNC with MyFord Touch Mandarin system, the inflatable rear safety belt, and the EcoBoost engine family, including the 1.0-liter EcoBoost unit.

We are excited to have visitors at Auto Shanghai 2013 come to the Ford display and see for themselves the great products and technologies we are bringing to our customers in China, said Dave Schoch, president of Ford Asia Pacific.

With the stunning all-new Mondeo and the new Fiesta ST, were fulfilling our promise to bring more exciting vehicles to our customers as we remain on track to introduce 15 new models in China by 2015, Schoch added.

The 2013 Shanghai Auto Show takes place from April 21-29, 2013 at the Shanghai International Exhibition Centre.

New Mercedes-Benz A-Class launched in South Africa

The Mercedes Benz A-Class has been a bestseller for a number of generations since its market launch in 1997 and continues to do so even now. With the launch of its latest model; the new Mercedes-Benz A-Class will feature three different variants – Urban, Style and AMG Sport, opening up a new chapter in the compact segment.

New Mercedes Benz A-Class is a superb offering

Engine Capabilities

All engines of the new A-Class feature the ECO start/stop function as standard. They can be combined with the new six-speed manual transmission or optionally with the 7G-DCT (Dual Clutch automatic Transmission).

The petrol range includes the following models: the A-180 and A-200 which sport a new direct injection 1.6-litre engine. The A-180 which is the very first Mercedes-Benz to emit 105g/km of C02 and delivers 90kW and 200Nm torque. The A-200 produces 115kW of power and a torque figure of 250Nm and consumes only 5.4 litres/100 km with CO2 emissions of 127g/km. The new A-250 Sport model is fitted with a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine producing 155kW and a maximum torque figure of 350Nm, with an efficient fuel consumption of 6.1-litres and CO2 emissions of 148 g/km.

Diesel engines include the A-180 CDI delivering 80kW of power, a torque figure of 260Nm and a fuel consumption of 3.8 l/100km. The A-220 CDI develops 125kW and 350Nm of torque and consumes only 4.3 litres/100 km.

Exterior Styling Features

Described as a two box design, the new Mercedes-Benz A-Class has a distinct character of its own, a sportily emotive exterior and an exceptionally high-quality feel to the interior.

Some exterior features of the long, sporty front are its distinct V-shape, the separate headlamps, the radiator grille with central Mercedes star and double slats to either side of the star, as well as the additional air intakes on the sides.

The rear axle emphasises the car’s coupe-like character with lines that sweep up from the front of the rear wheel arch then gently fade away.

Adding elegance to the exterior are the light modules and LEDs behind the headlamp cover glass. They have been arranged so as to create the characteristic “flare effect” for the daytime driving lights and indicators.

Interior Styling Features

Interior features of the urban A-Class comprise of an instrument panel with vents and an aircraft turbine insert finished in electroplated silver chrome. The free-standing screen features a black piano lacquer-look front panel and a flush fitting silver frame.

The three-spoke steering wheel comes with 12 function buttons and an electroplated bezel, while the instrument panel comprises of two large round instruments each with a small dial set within it.

Additionally the A-Class is fitted with sports seats with optional integrated head restraints and an extensive range of seat coverings including ARTICO fabric. The back of the front seats features an opening edge with a frame in silver chrome and an optional ambient lighting feature. Further sporty details include designo seat belts in red or a silver instrument cluster with red dial pointers.

Safety Features

The new Mercedes-Benz A-Class is equipped with an array of safety features including the Adaptive High-beam Assist system, Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist, Active Parking Assist with parking guidance, Brake hold function and a Reversing camera function. Intelligent restraint systems include up to nine airbags with the window-bags extending over both rows of seats to the A-pillar triangle.

“Mercedes-Benz is becoming the most dynamic premium brand in the world. As part of this development, the A-Class represents an important milestone. The A-Class is completely new, right down to the last detail. Its not often you get the chance to start with a clean sheet of paper in automotive development. Our designers and engineers have made the very most of that opportunity”, said Dr Martin Zimmermann, President and CEO, Mercedes-Benz South Africa.

New Mercedes-Benz A-Class Price

View the new Mercedes-Benz A-Class

A-180 BlueEfficiency	R275 000
A-200 BlueEfficiency	R298 000
A-180 CDI BlueEfficiency AT	R310 000
A-180 CDI BlueEfficiency	R300 000
A-220 CDI BlueEfficiency	R355 000
A-250 Sport	R395 000

Toyota sales summary for March 2013

Despite the fact that overall new vehicle sales in South Africa have slowed by 2.1% when compared to March 2012, Toyota sales remain strong. Toyota was the best-selling automotive brand in South Africa for March 2013. Here is the Toyota sales summary including critical sales figures, Top 5 model sales and the most popular Toyota used cars for March 2013.

Toyota sales summary March 2013

Total new car sales: 10 593 units
Total market share: 21.9%
Total passenger vehicle sales: 5 143 units (Segment share: 16.1%)
Total Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) sales: 5 007 (Segment share: 35.6%)

Top 5 Toyota new passenger car sales March 2013

Model	Sales
1. Toyota Corolla/Auris	2 067 units
2. Toyota Fortuner	1 072 units
3. Toyota Yaris	820 units
4. Toyota Aygo	416 units
5. Toyota Avanza	384 units

Toyota used car sales

Top 5 Toyota Used Cars on Cars.co.za March 2013

Model	Views
1. Toyota Corolla	31 938
2. Toyota Hilux	25 267
3. Toyota Yaris	15 968
4. Toyota Fortuner	9 188
5. Toyota RunX	9 116

Toyota in the news

Toyota 86 goes topless in Geneva

Toyota i-Road personal mobility concept debuts in Geneva

The Toyota Auris reviewed

The new Toyota Auris launched in South Africa

The 2013 Toyota RAV4 arrives in South Africa

Suzuki Jimny Review in South Africa

The Suzuki Jimny has been around for what feels like an eternity. However, theres an all-new version which may look similar, but boasts a number of upgrades.

Suzuki Jimny Review by David Taylor

Sharper looks

Visually, there doesnt seem to be much change. The Suzuki Jimny is still this tiny two-door off-roader thats filled with character and makes motor hacks use words like plucky and charming. Lets start with whats new in the looks department. The Jimny gains a little bonnet scoop, a refreshed front grille and the fog lamp positioning has changed. Its meant to give the Jimny a more aggressive, modern look and it works. Im not sure why a bonnet scoop has been fitted, as theres no high-performance engine that requires extra cooling, but its a cute touch nevertheless.

The Jimny’s engine is small but powerful enough

The Suzuki Jimny is powered by a 1.3-litre four cylinder engine with 63kW and 110Nm, and to be honest I was worried there wasnt going to be enough grunt to get around. Thanks to its dinky toy size, the Jimny actually does tootle around town rather nicely. Dont expect anything special in terms of outright performance though, its not aimed at the speedsters.

Not a car for the highway

My primary concern arose when I took it on the highway. While the car is fine in terms of driving on urban roads, highways are its nemesis. Top speed is rated at 140km/h and doing over 100km/h in the Jimny is a little disconcerting. With gusting Cape winds buffeting the Suzuki Jimny from the side, the car feels like it could tip over. Put it down to me being paranoid, but if you need to travel on the highway, I wouldnt try go past the national speed limit.

Offroading is the Jimnys party trick

Take the Suzuki Jimny off the city highway and suddenly it redeems itself beautifully. The soft suspension is perfect for tackling even the toughest of terrain and itll take a lot to get the vehicle stuck. The car has a low-range gearbox, a lockable diff and exceptional ground clearance which coupled with a smart design, means youre looking at a brilliant offroad vehicle.

Superb ability regardless of terrain

Thanks to a good friend who owns a dairy farm, the Suzuki Jimny was put to the test and despite my best efforts to try find an offroad weakness, it simply refused to give up. Maybe an ultra-steep decent down a loose gravel road would unseat it? Nope, put the gearbox in first and let it crawl down like an army commando. No surprise the Suzuki Jimny can be found serving in some armed forces around the world.

Basic interior

Inside the Suzuki Jimny the interior is rather simple and basic. No fancy gadgets here, this is all about comfort and practicality. The seats have been redesigned and now have new fabric, while ISOFIX anchor points for baby seats have been added. You get air conditioning, CD player, air con and electric windows. Its basic, but what more do you want? Satnav? Go get an aftermarket one and connect it to the cigarette lighter then.

Suzuki Jimny – Conclusion

Think of the Suzuki Jimny as a Labrador puppy. Its fine around the house, but when you take it for a walk in a big park and unclip the leash, thats when its happiest. Itll go charging through streams and up embankments in the most enthusiastic of manners, and when its time to go home, it settles down and becomes docile.

I do like the Suzuki Jimny. In a world filled with generic boxes which are devoid of emotional appeal, the Jimny is something totally different and unique. In the city its extremely easy to parallel park and drive through narrow streets, and weve seen how formidable it becomes when you turn off the tarred roads. Just dont try get anywhere in a hurry.

Suzuki Jimny – Price

Suzuki Jimny 1.3: R201 900

Why you should: Cute looks, simple character, surprisingly spacious cabin, unbeatable offroad ability.
Why you shouldnt: Doesnt feel like its designed to go faster than 120km/h
It would be better if: For a future model, perhaps put in an aux or USB input on the radio.
View the Suzuki Jimny: New / Used
Competitors worth checking out: Daihatsu Terios

Bugatti Veyron sets another speed record

The Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse has officially been named the fastest roadster in the world.

Fastest production roadster in the world

The 16.4 Bugatti Grand Sport Vitesse set its world speed record for open top production sports cars at the Volkswagen Group’s proving grounds in Ehra-Lessien. Driven by Chinese racing driver Anthony Liu, a top speed of 408.84 km/h was officially confirmed by the renowned independent German organisation for Technical Inspection and Certification TUV.

“When we introduced the Vitesse, we established the top speed for open-top driving to be 375 km/h. Still, we could not let go of the idea of reaching the 400 km/h mark with this car as well. The fact that we have succeeded in reaching 408.84 km/h is a thrill for me, and it reaffirms once again that Bugatti is the leader when it comes to technology in the international automotive industry”, said Dr. Wolfgang Schreiber, President of Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S.

This top speed is an addition to Bugattis titles of being the words fastest car. In 2010, the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Super Sport achieved an impressive top speed of 431.072 km/h also confirmed by TUV.

Powerful and high performance handling

The open top model is powered by an 8-litre W16 engine, with a torque figure of 1500 Nm and 3000 to 5000 rpm to the road. Other features that enabled such spectacular performance include a standard carbon monocoque with high torsional rigidity and an outer shell made entirely of carbon fibre. The interior was designed to keep wind noise and air turbulence to a minimum.

The Vitesse also sports a specially developed roof spoiler along with an intricately designed windbreak which guarantees calm open-top driving. It also received a powerful dual-colour scheme in black and orange, perfectly translating its inner qualities into its exterior appearance. This special Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse will be available in a World Record Car (WRC) Edition, which is limited to eight vehicles.

The World Record Car will be unveiled to the world for the first time at the Shanghai Motor Show later this month.

Used Car Analysis for March 2013

Statistics derived from Cars.co.za provide valuable insight into the interests of the South African public towards particular used car brands and used car models. In March 2013 a total of 1 218 372 vehicle views were made on Cars.co.za. Here is a breakdown of the most popular used cars in South Africa for March 2013 as well as the most popular used car brands.

Top 10 most popular used cars in South Africa for March 2013

Model	Total views	Used Car Market Penetration
1. BMW 3-Series	75 227	6.0%
2. Volkswagen Polo	68 784	5.0%
3. Volkswagen Golf	50 434	4.0%
4. Mercedes-Benz C-Class	40 729	3.0%
5. Audi A4	34 534	2.0%
6. Toyota Corolla	31 938	2.0%
7. Volkswagen Polo Vivo	26 901	2.0%
8. Audi A3	25 870	2.0%
9. Toyota Hilux	25 267	2.0%
10. BMW 1 Series	22 240	1.0%

The BMW 3-Series is South Africa’s most sought after used car with a market penetration percentage of 6%. The BMW 3-Series was the brand’s best selling new vehicle in 2012 and remains a popular choice for BMW customers. The Volkswagen Polo is in second place with a market penetration percentage of 5% but with marginally less views for the month. The VW Polo is also ranked second as South Africa’s most popular new car for March 2013 and was rated as the best-selling new car in 2012.

The VW Polo Vivo, which is South Africa’s best-selling new passenger car for March 2013, is in 7th place in the used car market with a market penetration percentage of 2%. Interestingly, South Africa’s best-selling bakkie, the Toyota Hilux, is placed ninth in the used car market with a market penetration percentage of 2%.

Top 5 most popular used car brands in South Africa for March 2013

Brand	Total Views	Used Car Market Penetration	New Car Market Penetration*
1. VW	214 744	17.00%	19.30%
2. BMW	146 666	12.00%	5.80%
3. Toyota	134 836	11.00%	21.90%
4. Audi	92 692	7.00%	19.3%(VW)
5. Mercedes-Benz	75 842	6.00%	5.80%

* According to official NAAMSA sales figures for February 2013.

According to Cars.co.za, Volkswagen, South Africa’s most popular passenger car brand, is considered to be the most popular used car brand for March with a used car market penetration percentage of 17%. In the new car market Volkswagen is ranked second with a market share of 19.3% behind Toyota in first place with 21.9% market share for March 2013. Interestingly, BMW is ranked second as the most sought after used car brand in the used car market with a penetration percentage of 12% while in the new car market it only accounts for 5.8% of new car sales. Mercedes-Benz has an equal penetration in the used car market and in the new car market.

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.

Renault TwinZ Concept revealed

Renault is set to release the third generation Twingo as a production version of the all-electric Renault TwinZ Concept, which was a collaborative project between Renault and designer Ross Lovegrove.

Renault TwinZ Concept shows electric potential

Engine Capability

The Renault TwinZ Concept is fitted with a rear mounted synchronous electric motor delivering 50kW of power and 226Nm of torque. It is also equipped with four 96-V lithium batteries hidden beneath the floor. With a weight of 980kg, the Twinz can achieve a top speed of 130km/h.

Exterior Design Features

The striking blue livery of the Renault TwinZ Concept is a tribute to 20th century painter Yves Klein. The satin finish gives a pure skin to the body which appears to be coated, almost anodised, rather than painted, suggesting that the pigmentation is inside the body and not applied.

Renault Design must remain attentive and open-minded at all times. We need to be attentive to new trends in order to stay ahead of the game, while an open-mind that embraces all sectors of activity is necessary to inspire innovation. There are numerous bridges between the work of Ross Lovegrove which combines beauty and intelligence thanks to an approach inspired by the living, natural world and the strategy, we have been working on for three years now at Renault, producing designs that are sensuous, based on simple emotions and close to the public.” said Laurens van den Acker, Concept Car Design Director

Continuing with the poetic and colourful theme, the grille is designed in that it creates a vortex effect which channels air flow and minimises turbulence to optimise Twin’Z’s aerodynamic performance. This is also incorporated into the rear bumper as an echo of the lighting signature.

The daytime running lights form a structure of strips resembling an iris and continue to give the TwinZ a near-humanlike stare. A sequence of LEDs extends from the grille to the rear bumper via the glass roof which is designed in layers and incorporates an array of LEDs that form animated patterns.

Additional features include hinged front and rear electric doors, a central pillar revealing the entire cabin and frees up space to facilitate ingress. The Ross Lovegrove designed 18-inch aluminium alloy wheels and specifically Michelin developed tyres have been designed as a single entity and feature a glowing green finish. The solid central core splits into slender branches which strike out towards the rim.

Interior Design Features

Inside the spacious Renault TwinZ Concept are four lightweight seats with green frames that appear to grow from the floor. They have been upholstered in a 3D woven, self-cushioning, lightweight blue textile which is both waterproof and flame-resistant.

The model doesnt feature a dashboard however it is fitted with a single tablet with a touchscreen display mounted on a centrally-positioned post. This tablet handles vehicle’s systems such as the heater, seat adjustment, lights activation, control of the roof, GPS guidance system and in-car connectivity.

“From the start, the intention was to build on the heritage of luxury and grace associated with France and to express it in a modern way, while at the same time creating a link between Renault’s past, present and future.” said Ross Lovegrove

VW Beetle 1.4T Sport Review

Better in every respect than the last VW Beetle, but more niched than ever. Ironically. Dont let the Sport fool you.

VW Beetle 1.4T Sport review by John Beale

Lets be honest, the last Beetle wasnt exactly the best work VW has done. A bit a miss in terms of pricing, target market and terrible to drive. You see very few of them on the roads today, and they sure as hell were not the peoples car of yore. The New Beetle wants to be radically different. Even the tagline, Less Flower, more Power embodies VWs positioning for the Beetle of shedding the female, frivolous nature of the last incarnation, and brings a more focused package, but is it?

Interior and exterior

Lower, longer and built on the Golf 6 platform, the New Beetle is different in looks whilst still being Beetle. The round lights, bubble bonnet (Albeit longer) and now with tail fin, are still unmistakably Beetle. The interior has been totally redesigned, sharing parts from the group (Sound system, steering wheel, climate control), but design cues immediately remind you of the original Beetle. In the right colour, with the right rims, a guy can now drive the new Beetle Sport without having to hide behind the vase on the dash. Flat facia against the passenger with glovebox, instrument binnacle with large speedometer and flanking gauges are unique and give the Beetle great character. Also they removed that stupid flower holder from the interior. Good riddance!

Red sports leather seating was supportive, but dont expect the rear seats to be anything else but space to throw your paraphernalia, Unless you recently started pre-school, youre not going to fit back there. Thankfully the shallow boot (no engine in the back) is actually big enough to take larger pieces of luggage. Some options fitted to the unit were the panoramic sunroof, keyless entry and technology, navigation and media interface, but for some obscure reason I couldnt connect my phone via Bluetooth.

The Beetle’s engine and Drive

The 1.4T engine pushes out 118kW and 240NM, and is the same unit used in the rest of the VW group, to huge success. Its an incredible little engine and does the Beetle justice moving it along at speed, as well as returns great economy when you drive with that mind. (claimed 6.6litres/100km) Its no firecracker off the line, 0-100km takes 8.3seconds, but it feels a lot quicker (Sport in looks, but definitely not in performance). The gearbox shifts in typical notchy VW fashion, but its solid. Clutch action is also typical VW, which takes some time to get used to. The only problem with the little engine is that it can run out of steam through the rev band pretty quickly, leaving you without go, but mid range punch is commendable.

Again, the ride is firm (also thanks to 18inch Twister alloys), but doesnt offer the dynamic ability when really pushing on. The tail starts to dance a little over undulating surfaces and can get the whole car out of sorts. Definitely not as planted as brother Golf. Steering is electronic, but does a good job of being both light and giving good feedback. Brakes are sharp and assisted with all the usual ABS and EBD, as well as standard Electronic Stability Program and Hill Hold Assist (which keeps you from rolling back on incline).

VW Beetle Conclusion

You either want the 21st Century Beetle, or you dont. Its going to speak to the individual who wants to make a statement, even in Sport guise, its more about the aesthetics than the dynamics, and spec it out that way can get pricey, when compared to the similar Mini Cooper S which does the same job, but is more dynamically capable.

There is little to fault this time around. VW are definitely focusing on both the male and female market, albeit the singles without families. The new Beetle gives you more in terms of driver reward, better engines and unique interior. Its different, eye catching and will make a solid every day drive, but is now so focused it definitely isnt the peoples car it used to be.VW

View the VW Beetle : New / Used
Competitors worth checking out: Mini Cooper S 135kW/240NM 295 868 (Sans options)

VW Beetle Price

VW Beetle Sport 1.4T Manual 118kW/240NM – R317 000 (R350 650 as tested)

Most popular new car brands in South Africa for March 2013

A total of 54 946 new vehicles were sold in March 2013 according to the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (NAAMSA) which represents a 2.1% decline in sales when compared to March 2012. Here is a breakdown of the best selling new car brands for March as well as each brand’s top 5 selling vehicles.

Car Brand	Volume	Market Share
1. Toyota	10 593	21.90%
2. Volkswagen	9 337	19.30%
3. Ford	5 001	10.30%

South Africa’s Top 3 selling new car brands March 2013

1. Toyota 10 593 units

Toyota is South Africa’s best-selling car brand for March 2013 with a total market share of 21.9%. Toyota sold well in both the passenger vehicle segment (5 143 units) and in the Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) segment (5 007 units). The best-selling vehicles in the Toyota stable include the ever-popular Hilux bakkie which managed to sell 3 189 units, while the Toyota Corolla/Auris proved to be a popular choice in the passenger car segment with 2 067 units sold.

Toyota Top 5 best-selling new cars March 2013

Model	March Sales (compared to February 2013)
1. Toyota Hilux	3 189 (3 500)
2. Toyota Corolla	2 067 (1 298)
3. Toyota Fortuner	1 072 (996)
4. Toyota Quantum	1 038 (1 030)
5. Toyota Yaris	820 (753)

2. Volkswagen – 9 100 units

Volkswagen posted healthy sales figures in March 2013 and claims second place in the new vehicle sales rankings. Volkswagen dominated sales in the passenger vehicle segment with sales totalling 8 561 units, making it the most popular brand in this segment. The best-selling Volkswagen vehicles for February were the Polo Vivo and the Polo, which remain popular choices amongst new car buyers.

Volkswagen Top 5 best-selling new cars March 2013

Model	March Sales (compared to February 2013)
1. VW Polo Vivo	2 651 (2 742)
2. VW Polo	2 470 (2 192)
3. VW Golf 7	626 (767)
4. Audi A4	495 (371)
5. VW Jetta 6	404 (391)

3. Ford 5001 units

Ford was the third best-selling new car brand in South Africa for March 2013 and sold well in both the passenger vehicle segment (2 833 units) and in the Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) segment (2 168) with a total market share of 10.3%.

Ford Top 5 best-selling new cars March 2013

Model	March Sales (compared to February 2013)
1. Ford Ranger	1 753 (1 784)
2. Ford Figo	1 313 (982)
3. Ford Fiesta	344 (573)
4. Ford Kuga	286 (-)
5. Ford Focus	256 (596)

VW Sales in South Africa for March 2013