Renault Clio 4 launched in South Africa

The Renault Clio 4 is now available in South Africa and is set to make waves in the popular B-segment. The Clio, Now in its fourth generation, has sold around 12-million units since the first version was shown off at the Paris Motor Show back in 1990.

Renault Clio 4 part of successful history

On the back of some strong accolades such as ’91 European Car of the Year, ’06 European Car of the Year for Clio 3 and Clio 2 taking the South African Car of the Year award in 2000, comes the all-new Renault Clio 4. It’s already racking up awards globally and I’m confident it’ll crack a nod for some silverware on South African shores.

“The all-new Renault Clio 4 is in a class of its own,” says Fabien Payzan, Vice-President of Marketing at Renault South Africa. “Its seductive styling, all-new engine, smart and useful on-board technologies and much more, will position it streets ahead of its peers in the small car segment. We are anticipating a stampede by Clio aficionados, many of whom have delayed their new buying decisions until they have had sight of the much-awaited New Clio,” he adds. That sounds like fighting talk, but does the new Renault Clio 4 deliver?

Exterior styling

In terms of looks, the Renault Clio 4 is as sporty as ever, with a coupé shape – thanks primarily to the rear door handles being concealed. The car sits lower to the ground, while more dominant shoulder lines make the Clio look a lot more aggressive. The main changes are the introduction of LED daytime running lights which are standard across the range and a dominant Renault diamond logo on the front bumper. In the boring B-segment, the Renault Clio 4 is easily one of the more attractive cars.

Engine capability

There was only one engine available to sample on launch and seeing as it’s an engineering masterpiece, it has to be mentioned. It’s one of the smallest engines on sale and is a 0.9L 3-cylinder with 66kW and 135Nm. You may laugh at the size, but it’s more than able to match a normally-aspirated 1.4L 4-cylinder found in many of its rivals thanks to Formula One-derived technologies. The main strength of this engine is brilliant fuel consumption and Renault claims a figure of 4.5L/100km. On the launch route I found the engine to be willing and when pushed, delivered a lot of grunt right from the bottom of the rev range.

Standard features

The new Renault Clio 4 is well appointed and comes standard with the following features:

  • Cruise control with speed limiter
  • Bluetooth connectivity for audio streaming
  • Hands-free telephone
  • USB connectivity
  • Onboard trip computer
  • The new Bass Reflex sound system
  • One touch indicators
  • Renault keycard
  • Hill Start Assist

There are three versions available. The entry-level model has a 1.2-litre with 55kW, which wasn’t available to drive, while the 0.9L-litre engine comes in two trim levels – Authentique and Dynamique. Both of the 66kW 0.9L Clios comes standard with an integrated satellite navigation and media centre. It’s a touchscreen device which doesn’t take long to get the hang of and the seven-inch colour display is clear.

Safety features

Being a Renault, safety is a priority and the new Renault Clio 4 is well-equipped in this department. It features ABS brakes with Emergency Brake Assist (EBA). There’s ESP which will bring the car under control in a skid as well as Hill Start Assist. There are also four airbags. These safety features all combined to give the Clio 4 a five star rating and a score of 85% on the Euro Ncap crash test.

New Renault Clio 4 – Conclusion

Is it any good? Well, from the initial drive I can say there are no major faults to report. A comprehensive test will follow in future and I’ll be on the lookout for any problems. The best part of the new Clio 4 is Renault South Africa’s pricing strategy.

New Renault Clio 4 variants come standard with a 5-year/150 000km mechanical warranty, a 3-year/45 000km service plan and a 6-year anti-corrosion warranty.

Renault Clio 4 – Price

Renault Clio 4 – 55kW Authentique 5-door R149 900
Renault Clio 4 – 66kW Turbo Expression 5-door R169 900
Renault Clio 4 – 66kW Turbo Dynamique 5-door R179 900

Options

Manual air-conditioning R10 000 (Authentique)
Fixed glass roof R 8 000 (Expression& Dynamique)
Climate control R 5 000 (Dynamique)
Rear park assist R 2 000 (Dynamique)
Metallic paint R 2 500 (Range)

South African new car sales for March 2013

According to the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (NAAMSA), overall new car and commercial sales for the month of March had been in line with expectations, reflecting modest declines compared to March last year. Here is a summary of new vehicle sales in South Africa for the month of March 2013.

South African new car sales summary – March 2013

  • Total new vehicle sales: 54 946 units, down 2.1% compared to March 2012
  • Total export sales: 28 338 units, up 18.2% or 4 370 units compared to March 2012
  • New car market sales totalled 37 596 units, down 3.6% compared to March 2012
  • Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) sales totalled 14 794 units, up 1.3% compared to March 2012

According to NAAMSA the short term outlook for the automotive sector would be affected by increasing new vehicle pricing pressure as a result of the weaker exchange rate and the the increase of CO2 vehicle emissions taxes. The result would be moderation in the rate of growth in sales during the remainder of 2013.

However, a low interest rate environment, strong replacement demand, a highly competitive trading environment, low debt servicing costs and high tech model introductions will continue to support sales. It must be remembered though that rising inflationary pressures will dampen growth in consumers’ real disposable income. Exports will however see substantial gains throughout 2013.

South Africa’s best selling car brands – March 2013

Car Brand Volume
1. Toyota 10 593
2. Volkswagen 9 337
3. Ford Motor Company 5 001
4. Nissan 4 709
5. GMSA 4 553

Ford ranked as best selling nameplate worldwide

Polk global market registration data officially confirmed that the Ford Focus was the world’s best selling passenger car in 2012, with the Ford F-series bakkie taking third place and Ford Fiesta coming in as the best selling subcompact.

Astounding record sales for Ford

According to the automotive data and trends forecasting leader, sales of the compact Focus totalled 1,020, 410 cars worldwide. This caused market gains for the Focus which was driven by consumer demands in China and United States. In China, registrations were up by 51% last year, while in United States sales were up by 40%.

“Focus and Fiesta represent the culmination of our One Ford global product strategy,” said Jim Farley, Ford executive vice president.

He added “Our global products are resonating with consumers – especially in the best-selling, most competitive segments – with their unique combination of fuel efficiency, high quality, rich content and fun-to-drive personalities. Through One Ford, we’re able to bring economies of scale and fantastic value to customers all around the world.”

In addition to its title of ‘World’s Best-Selling Vehicle’, Polk data also confirmed that with 723 130 registrations last year, the Ford Fiesta is the best-selling subcompact car globally. Together, registrations of Ford’s small cars – Fiesta and Focus – totaled 1,743,540 vehicles in 2012.

Farley concluded “Since its launch in China in late March of last year, Focus sales continue to strengthen, with the car now ranking as the best-selling passenger car in China in 2012 for the first time ever,”

“With additional manufacturing capacity added last year, we now have a tremendous opportunity to further strengthen our global small car sales in 2013, with sales off to a very strong start already.”

Most popular new cars in South Africa for March 2013

According to the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (NAAMSA) vehicle sales in March 2013 have slowed by 2.1% compared to the same month last year. A total of 54 946 new vehicles were sold in South Africa in March 2013. Here are the most popular new cars in South Africa for March 2013.

Most popular new cars in South Africa

1. Toyota Hilux – 3 189 units

South Africa’s most popular bakkie, the Toyota Hilux, has once again topped sales in March with 3 189 units sold. The Toyota Hilux is available in three body styles including the Single Cab, Xtra Cab and Double Cab. A wide variety of engine options are available and prices range from R186 700 to R475 900, depending on the model.

2. Volkswagen Polo Vivo – 2 846 units

The Polo Vivo is the best selling new car in the passenger car segment. The Polo Vivo was South Africa’s most popular new car in 2012 and will most likely continue to sell well in 2013. The Polo Vivo is offered either as a hatchback or sedan with a variety of engine options available, ranging from between 55kW and 77kW. Depending on the model, prices range from R111 900 for the 1.4-litre 2-door hatchback and R158 500 for the 1.6 Trendline sedan.

3. Volkswagen Polo – 2 355 units

The VW Polo had another good sales month in March and is still considered to be one of South Africa’s best selling passenger cars. Like the Polo Vivo, The Polo is also offered as either a hatchback or sedan with prices starting from R162 100 for the 1.4-litre Trendline while the Polo 1.6 Comfortline is priced at R231 300.

4. Toyota Corolla – 2 067 units

Toyota’s ever popular Corolla sold well in March and makes it into the top 5 best selling cars for the month. The Corolla is available in five trim levels with prices starting at R187 900 for the 1.3-litre Impact derivative, while the range-topping 2.0-litre Exclusive D-4D is priced at R296 900.

5. Nissan NP200 – 1 829 units

Nissan’s NP200 bakkie sold well last month and makes the top five best selling vehicles for March. The Nissan NP200 is an affordable and reliable bakkie that is available in three trim levels namely Base, Mid and High. The 1.6-litre Base version is priced at R123 800 while the 1.6-litre High model retails for R175 800.

New Maserati Ghibli to debut at Shanghai Motor Show

The new Maserati Ghibli is set to debut at the Shanghai Motor Show later this month.

Big future for new Maserati Ghibli

The new Maserati Ghibli will be available with two turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engines mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Ghibli is also the first Maserati production car in history to be powered by a 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel engine. It will also feature both the rear-wheel drive and the new ‘Q4’ all-wheel drive system.

The Ghibli will play a significant role in Maserati’s growth plan to sell 50 000 cars per year.

More details on the new Maserati Ghibli will be revealed at the Shanghai Motor Show which takes place between on 21-29 April 2013.

2013 Toyota RAV4 arrives in South Africa

The fourth generation 2013 Toyota RAV4 has been launched into the South African market. The 2013 Toyota RAV4 is now available in four models with a choice of three engines and two trim levels.

“Now in its fourth iteration, Toyota has put its superior experience to good use in the all-new 2013 Toyota RAV4. It has evolved both stylistically and dynamically; not only does it sport dramatic lines and a more mature interior, but it also offers a more engaging driving experience i.e. it blends all the best bits from its predecessors and adds a pleasing quality twist to proceedings while retaining the original model’s commitment to fun.” said Glenn Crompton, Vice President of Marketing.

New and improved 2013 Toyota RAV4

Engine Capability

Engine options in the new RAV4 include a 2.0 litre, 2.2D-4D and top of the range 2.5VVT-i. The 2.0-litre unit comes with either a six-speed manual transmission or Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) automatic and come in the GX trim. The engine delivers 107kW at 6200rpm and a torque figure of 187Nm at 3600rpm.

Fuel consumption for the manual RAV4 is rated at 7.7 litres/100km with 179g/km CO2 and 7.4 litres/100km with emissions of 173g/km for the CVT.

The 2.2-litre diesel also in GX trim produces 110kW of power at 3600rpm and a maximum torque figure of 340Nm from 2000-2800rpm. The combined fuel consumption is rated at 5.6 litres/100km with 149g/km CO2 emissions.

Topping the Toyota Rav4 range is the VX trim 2.5-litre VVT-i engine which delivers 132kW at 6000rpm and 233Nm at 4100rpm. CO2 emissions are 198g/km with average fuel consumption of 8.5 litres/100km.

Exterior Styling Features

The 2013 RAV4 boasts a more sophisticated and bolder exterior featuring a lower roofline, an integral roof spoiler and a pronounced belt-line with blacked out B and C pillars. The new tailgate is now top-hinged, and the rear gate mounted spare wheel has been removed to complete the RAV4’s aerodynamically efficient design.

Additional features that distinguish the new RAV4 from the older model include a stylish narrow grille central to the chrome horizontal trim bar that extends to the headlamp clusters. A large trapezoidal lower opening below the grille finished in black resin and integral fog lamp housings, including ‘Keen Look’ headlamps incorporated with LED Daytime Running Light (DRL) detailing.

The vehicle is also equipped with a choice of 17-inch alloy wheels as standard and is available in eight body colours including four new hues in the model range: Greyish Blue Metallic, Eclipse Black Metallic, Crimson Metallic and Pearl White Metallic.

Interior Styling Features

The interior is styled with high quality materials; soft padding, Clear Blue instrument back lighting and crisp trim finishes. A curved metal finish beam breaks off the horizontal surfaces that frame the driver’s instrument binnacle, steering wheel and foot-well. Silver trim accents highlight the driver’s instruments, air vents, centre console instruments and gear lever. Both door switch panels and the transmission tunnel are finished with simulated carbon-fibre panels

Driving position of the new RAV4 has been revised for improved ergonomics, greater comfort, better forward visibility and a more engaging driving experience. The seats feature a cushion contact area increase of 20mm, with the thicker side bolsters positioned relatively higher for improved support.

Safety Features

The new Toyota RAV4 will also be available with a newly developed Integrated Dynamic Drive System, Electric Power Steering, Dynamic Torque Control AWD, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Electric Power Steering (EPS) systems.

Active safety systems include ABS with EBD, BA, VSC (Vehicle Stability Control) and TRC (Traction Control). The all-wheel drive models are equipped, as standard, with VSC+, which integrates VSC and the vehicle’s Electric Power Steering (EPS).

2013 Toyota RAV4 Price in South Africa

Variant Price
RAV4 2.0 2WD GX 6-spd R279 900
RAV4 2.0 2WD GX CVT R289 900
RAV4 2.2 D-4D AWD GX R359 900
RAV4 2.5 AWD VX R399 900

The 2013 Toyota RAV4 will be available with a three year/100,000km warranty and a standard five-year/ 90 000 km service plan. The new models are also supported by the ToyotaCare Roadside Assistance Programme which entitles customers to 24-hour roadside assistance, ensuring ultimate peace-of-mind motoring.

Porsche Panamera revealed ahead of 2013 Shanghai Auto Show

Porsche will introduce its first plug-in hybrid, the Porsche Panamera S E-hybrid at the 2013 Shanghai Auto Show. The Panamera S E-hybrid will be joined by the Panamera 4S Executive and Panamera Turbo Executive models in the revised Panamera line-up.

Porsche Panamera S E-hybrid – Specifications and Features

Engine Capabilities

The new Porsche Panamera S E-hybrid will come equipped with an eight-speed Tiptronic S automatic 3.0-litre V6 engine producing 235kW, an electric motor producing 70kW and a lithium-ion battery pack. Combined, all these units will provide the car with a power output of 306kW, enough for it to accelerate from 0-100km/h in 5.2 seconds reaching a top speed of 269km/h. When using electric power it can achieve a top speed of 135 km/h.

Fuel consumption for the Porsche Panamera E-Hybrid is rated at 3.1 litres/100 km, with CO2 emissions of just 71 g/km.

Improved Exterior Features

Exterior changes to the new Porsche Panamera models include more prominent lines on the front and on the larger air-intakes all through to the headlights. The side profile features a more swept back rear window which creates an even more extended silhouette. The redesigned rear features a new boot lid, a wider spoiler and shows a tighter transition to the rear lights

The Porsche Panamera models are further enhanced with new LED lights, bi-xenon headlights, multi-function steering wheel and an automatic boot lid. In addition, the expanded line-up features assistance systems including the revised adaptive cruise control system now offered with Porsche Active Safe (PAS). The camera-based lane departure warning is another new feature which offers greater convenience and safety in city and highway travel.

The Porsche Panamera models will be shown at the Shanghai Motor Show taking place between 20 and 29 April 2013.

New Toyota Auris Review

The new Toyota Auris is a nice addition to the range, with a vastly improved interior, high specification levels and well balanced ride. It could do with some more power though.

New Toyota Auris 1.6 XR CVT review by John Beale

The new Toyota Auris is another bit of much needed life injected into the Toyota lineup by Akia Toyoda. Lower roofline, 10mm lower ride height and all in all reduced centre of gravity also brings better handling to a considerably better looking second generation Auris. My favourite is the front, more aggressive, without being too polarizing.

The Auris interior

I was extremely surprised by the top spec XR interior. The contrast stitched leather dash, sports seats with firm support and leather wrapped 3 spoke sports steering wheel with controls really impressed with their quality touch and look. Surprising refinement and quietness in the cabin, was topped by the comfortable and solid ride. The only real noise that gets in the cabin is when the CVT(Continuous Variable Transmission) is pushed. Rear seat space is good, and boot space has been improved to 350litres, which is also good considering the competition varies between 296 (Huyndai i30) and 380 (Golf 7). Everything you’d expect and more is standard on the XR trim, including stand out items such as dual zone climate control, Bluetooth Audio, heated leather sports seats, reverse camera and Smart Entry (Keyless entry and starting). Overall the interior is a very comfortable, quiet and has a typical Toyota solid fit and feel to everything. The leather addition on the upright dash even gives a bit of a Lexus CT200h feel to it.

Safety features

On the safety front, the XR spec includes ABS, EBD and brake assist and 7 airbags, but does not include any form of stability control, which is out of place in this class, price and range. Toyota SA confirmed that this was not included in the less powerful models due to price, but stressed that; “This does not detract from the inherent tortional rigidity and general crash safety of the car”.

The new Toyota Auris’ performance

Performance is not really what you’re after in this engine range and price, but the 1.6litre unit is the biggest naturally aspirated unit available in the Auris range. 97kW and 170NM of torque do an admirable job of moving the now lighter Auris around, albeit without much haste. At reef levels it feels quite light-in-the-pants, but fuel consumption with the CVT box rewards at claimed 6.1l/100km. I managed just over 7.3l/100km.

It cruises quietly at legal speeds, only when overtaking or heading uphill do you really feel the engine could do with more power. This new unit features dual VVT-I technology which further improves performance and fuel economy, and with the CVT, is surprisingly instantaneous at pull off. VW’s 1.4TSI unit will feel more powerful due to the turbocharging (and is the fastest and most fuel efficient in the segment) but the Honda Civic and Hyundai i30 with 1.6litre produce similar performance.

The drive

The CVT “auto” box does a good job of mimicking an auto box with steps as imitation of traditional gear ratios. It’s one of the better CVT’s I’ve tested, but is still too slippy and whiney, and I’d rather opt for the manual. If you do want an auto, it won’t disappoint, and has the option for manual shifting, which I used quite often.

Ride and handling is actually surprisingly rewarding, considering the vehicle isn’t a performance model. Firm enough on the 16inch alloy wheels without being uncomfortable. Electronic power steering does a good job at articulating what’s going on, but is more comfort based, and suppresses road vibration and shunt through technologies employed in the steering rack.

New Toyota Auris 1.6 XR CVT conclusion

The Auris makes a fighting comeback in the looks and specification department in this 1.6XR CVT. The competition is stiff, and price, reliability and comfort is key here. For a reliable, comfortable every day drive with quality interior you’re going to struggle to beat the Auris at this price. The Golf will end up costing roughly R40K more when specced similarly, but will reward with what is a better motor for those living on the reef. The new Honda Civic is equally appealing on the looks front, but has lower specification (no leather, no Bluetooth) and slightly plasticky interior. The Hyundai i30 is extremely competitively priced, and you could opt for the slightly more powerful 1.8, but interior won’t be on par to the Auris and performance isn’t better even though there’s more capacity.

New Toyota Auris – Price

Toyota Auris 1.6 XR CVT – 97kW & 170NM – R266 900 [350]

New BMW X4 Concept shown ahead of Shanghai Motor Show

BMW has officially unveiled its X4 Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) concept set to debut at the 2014 Shanghai Motor Show. The BMW X4 concept follows in the footsteps of the X6 by adopting a dynamic design with a hint of crossover features and outstanding performance and driving dynamics.

BMW X4 Concept perfect for sporty urban lifestyle

The BMW X4 concept comes equipped with classic BMW features such as the large kidney grille that stretches within a solid looking surround and stylised with twin circular LED head-lights. The high-gloss black frame is open to the sides and at its lower extreme lending an almost floating appearance in the centre of the nose. The grille also features air apertures to ensure an increased supply of cooling air to the engine.

The body’s lines and the slim LED tail lights positioned at the outer edges of the rear emphasize the muscular wheel arches and wide track of the X4 which will be fitted with 21-inch bi-colour light alloy wheels. Behind the high-gloss polished spokes are dark-coloured flame surfaces that contribute an impressive feeling of depth to the X4.

The rear is fixed with a dual exhaust system, wraparound LED taillights and a distinctive rear bumper which is incorporated under the body for protection. In addition, matt black surfaces lower the car’s perceived height and accentuate the robust BMW X character of the rear.

More details including engine specifications will be revealed when the concept makes its debut at the 2013 Shanghai Auto Show on the 20th April, with the official launch set to be in 2014. The X4 concept will be built at the automaker’s Plant Spartanburg in the USA, which produces the X5, X6 and X3 models.

Alfa Romeo Giulietta MultiAir TCT Review

The Alfa Romeo Giulietta could be the best looking hatch on the road today, but simply not good enough to compete with the Germans it’s priced against.

Alfa Romeo Giulietta MultiAir TCT review by John Beale

When bad things happen to a good car. The Alfa Romeo Giulietta is probably one of the best looking vehicles on the road today, but a mechanical or electronic malady plagued the TCT (basically a twin-clutch gearbox system like VW’s DSG) gearbox. Clunky changes, thumping into first gear and just generally shifted gears like it had one too many Vodka Cranberry’s, made for an unpleasant experience. Sadly, shifting in manual or with the paddles only angered the already drunk gearbox, so I left it to slur around in drive.

Alfa Romeo Giulietta Performance

The 1.4T MultiAir Distinctive (middle of the range), delivers an impressive 125kW and 250NM through the front wheels, scorching a claimed 0-100km/h time of 7.7seconds and 218km/h top speed. Fuel consumption is claimed at 6.2l/100km however I struggled to achieve that with the dodgy gearbox. There’s a heap of power from the little 1.4 turbocharged motor, and it’s eager to rev and get going.

It’s a pity the sound from the exhaust doesn’t match, but that’s what the Quadrifolgio is for. If the drive is not dynamic enough, you can switch the DNA toggle to “Dynamic” and let the magic happen. By magic, I mean electronic changes to the throttle, gearbox and steering feel, making it tighter, more responsive and more … well … dynamic. It unfortunately all is VERY aggressive and the artificial feel to it is a bit over-assisted. The system also offers “Normal” and “All Weather” mode, for snow driving. There are a few of these systems out there, but the Alfa one is a bit too one sided for my liking.

The Interior

The interior is typically Alfa, with round dials and red lighting and lettering for digital displays. Auto dual zone climate control, trip computer, Bluetooth and steering wheel controls for the windows sync system is standard. Cloth seats are comfortable, but rear space is quite limited. I couldn’t quite get comfortable with the view out of the drivers seat. It’s quite hard to judge the nose, which is quite long and slopes heavily, and A-pillar gets in the way.

As a reprieve, the dials ahead of the driver are quite sporty to look at, and the leather wrapped steering wheel feels solid. Materials are of an ‘ok’ quality, but some are too plastic, and still not up to Audi / BMW standards, and the rubber toggle switches on the dash feel like something that should belong on a below par coffee maker. That said, everything is easy to use, and there’s space under the armrest for wallets and such items that need to be hidden. There’s the usual host of airbags and safety systems you’d expect at this price. Overall, interior specification is good.

The ride

The ride is the mechanical highlight, with a solid feel over bumps and rides comfortably without crashing. Unfortunately brakes are too sharp and the auto box made disastrous changes right at braking point bringing in jerky stops. Dynamically, it’s perfectly capable, and considering most buyers won’t be purchasing this model as the hot hatch, they would be more than satisfied with the ride.

Alfa Romeo Giulietta MultiAir TCT – Conclusion

As said earlier, the Giulietta is one of the sexiest vehicles on the road today, and quality is significantly improved on the Alfa your dad drove. To boot, the 1.4turbo plant is a kicking engine, and produces the goods on economy and acceleration. However, interior quality and space in the rear might put some buyers off. There’s not a huge amount of new tech to spec either, and the competitors trump it on driving dynamics and refinement. A real pity the gearbox soured the experience as I think the manual sportier version could a firecracker.

Alfa Romeo Giulietta – Price

Alfa Romeo 1.4T Multiair Distinctive TCT – R330 990, including 3-year 100 000km warranty and maintenance plan.