Subaru XV range gets two new models

Subaru South Africa has added two new additions to the Subaru XV Crossover range. The two new models are based on the original Subaru XV and are more affordable and accessible to a wider market.

New Subaru XV 2.0i – Specifications and Features

Engine Capability

The new Subaru XV 2.0i models are powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder Boxer petrol engine that delivers 110kW of power with a torque figure of 196Nm. The engine is fixed to a Subaru Symmetrical all-wheel-drive system and the models are available with either a six speed manual gearbox or a Lineartronic CVT automatic transmission.

Fuel consumption is rated at 8.0-litres /100km for the manual variant while the Lineartronic CVT models feature a combined average of 7.9-litres/100km.

Standard Features

A number of standard features are included in the new models such as halogen headlights, front fog lights, colour coded door handles, 17-inch dual-tone alloy wheels and an automatic single-zone air conditioning with a dust filter.

The new Subaru XV models additionally come with sports fabric seats, a multi-function steering wheel, a premium audio system with Bluetooth, USB and aux integration, cruise control, paddle shifters in the CVT model only and a gear-shift indicator for the manual model only.

The 2.0i-S Lineartronic derivative features enhanced standard specifications such as HID headlights, chrome detailing, a sunroof, a leather-bound steering wheel and gear lever, aluminium pedals, dual-zone automatic climate control and the multi-function display (MFD) with reversing camera over and above the new standard models’ specification levels.

The entire Subaru XV range comes optional with full leather upholstery and satellite navigation. The Subaru XV range boasts five star safety ratings from Euro NCAP and ANCAP with safety features such as ABS with EBD and BAS, VDC (Vehicle Dynamics Control), HSA (Hill Start Assist), seven airbags including a driver’s knee airbag, a reinforced body shell and ISOFIX child seat anchors.

New Subaru XV – Price

Subaru XV 2.0i 6MT R299 000
Subaru XV 2.0i Lineartronic R314 000
Subaru XV 2.0i-S Lineartronic R345 000

The entire Subaru XV range comes standard with Subaru Assist, a 3-year/100 000km warranty and a 3-year/75 000km maintenance plan with extension options available.

VW Polo Vivo 1.4 and Toyota Etios 1.5 Xs compared

The budget B-segment car market in South Africa is highly competitive with a wide range of options available to car buyers looking for affordable and practical transport solutions. The VW Polo Vivo and Toyota Etios are popular choices for buyers in this segment and both vehicles are best sellers in South Africa. Let’s take a closer look at what sets these two vehicles apart . Here is a basic comparison between the 5-door VW Polo Vivo 1.4 hatchback and the 5-door Toyota Etios 1.5 Xs hatchback.

VW Polo Vivo and Toyota Etios Comparison

 

VW Polo Vivo 1.4 (5-dr) Toyota Etios 1.5Xs (5-dr)
Price (incl.VAT) R123 100 R121 000
Engine Capability
Engine Type 1.4-litre petrol 1.5-litre petrol
Max. Power (kW @ rpm) 55 @ 5 000 66 @ 5 600
Max. Torque (Nm @ rpm) 132 @ 3 600 132 @ 3 000
Transmission
Transmission type 5-speed manual 5-speed manual
Performance
Acceleration in sec. (0-100km/h) 12.9 11.3
Top Speed (km/h) 171 165
Fuel consumption (litres/100km) 6.2 6
CO2 emissions (g/km) 147 140
Standard Features
Airbags Driver and passenger Driver and passenger
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Optional Standard
Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) Optional Standard
Electric windows None Yes, front and rear
Power steering Yes Yes
Air conditioning Yes Yes
Radio Optional Optional
Wheels 14” with wheel trim covers 14” steel rims
Maintenance
Warranty 3-year/120 000km 3-year/100 000km
Service Plan Optional ToyotaCare 2-year/30 000km

 

 

Motoring Festival at Rand Easter Show

This years Rand Easter Show will feature special entertainment for petrol heads around Gauteng. The event will take place from Thursday 28th March to Monday, 1st April. Visitors to the show will be captivated by a wide variety of cars dating from the 1930s to the latest muscle cars from the USA.

Entertainment Galore

Visitors will be entertained by various extreme and drifting displays, an exhibition of two off-road four-wheeled racers and nearly two dozen classic off-road racing motorcycles.

The show will also feature a motoring stage-show, where motoring media personalities, Stuart Johnston and Hendrik Verwoerd, will interview motoring stars.

Plenty of interesting muscle cars, classic cars and super cars will be on display, including classic Volvos, classic Triumphs, classic MGs and modern super cars including Lamborghinis. Additionally, visitors will see a giant Scalextric and at no charge try out the realistic driving simulators. Scale cars will be on sale.

Tickets are available at the gates or through Computicket.

Dates: 28 March to1 April 2013

Show Hours: Gates open daily at 09h00. Ticketing booths into the show grounds close at 18h00. The show closes at 19h00.

Venue: Johannesburg Expo Centre, Rand Show Road, Nasrec.

Tickets:
R100 for adults
R50 for pensioners over 65
R50 for teens aged 13-16
R20 for kids aged 6 to 12
Free for children under six

Shelby 1000 SC headed for New York Auto Show

Shelby American will be introducing the most powerful production, street legal muscle car in the world at the 2013 New York Auto Show this week. The 2013 Shelby 1000 S/C, which is based on the Shelby GT 500, now features a host of improvements compared to the Shelby 1000 shown at last year’s New Your Auto Show.

“The 2012 Shelby 1000 was launched to great acclaim at the New York Auto Show last year to celebrate our 50th anniversary,” said John Luft, president of Shelby American. “We’re bringing back the Shelby 1000 to New York, but with Ford’s new 2013 Shelby GT500 as the base car. With its new engine, launch control, adjustable suspension and other new enhancements, we’ve created a car with even more capabilities. The 2013 Shelby 1000 incorporates everything we’ve learned over five decades of creating high-performance vehicles.”

2013 Shelby 1000 S/C – Features

The Shelby 1000 S/C is fitted with a reworked 5.8-litre V8 petrol engine that produces 895kW. In comparison, the stock standard Shelby GT500 produces 494kW. A finely tuned adjustable suspension with a performance cooling package is included as well as large brakes and a Shelby Ford Racing 4.0-litre supercharger.

“The 2013 Shelby 1000 is the most powerful production muscle car on the market,” said Vince LaViolette, Shelby American’s test driver. “But this car cannot be defined by just its amazing power. The steering provides wonderful feedback and the car tracks beautifully, giving it an athletic feel. It attacks corners, ripping through them with minimal body roll and tremendous grip. Yet the Shelby 1000 can be so docile that you can cruise it down the streets of Manhattan.”

Only 100 2013 Shelby 1000’s will be built and each one will be numbered and documented in the official Shelby Registry. More information will become available at the New York Auto Show which starts on 29 March 2013.

BMW sales summary for February 2013

The South African automotive industry has gotten off to a good start in 2013, although it has been predicted by NAAMSA that sales momentum in the automotive sector will slow throughout 2013. BMW however is not slowing down and posted reasonable sales for the month of February 2013.
Here is a breakdown of BMW sales including critical sales figures, top 5 model sales and most popular BMW used cars for February 2013.

BMW sales summary – February 2013

  • Total new car sales: 2 423 units
  • Total market share: 5.2%
  • Total passenger vehicle sales: 2 423 units (Segment share: 7.9%)

Top 5 BMW new passenger car sales – February 2013 compared to January 2013

Model Sales
BMW 3-Series 1 075 (980)
BMW 1-Series 432 (467)
BMW X3 179 (189)
BMW 5-Series 160 (131)
BMW X1 121 (82)

Top 5 BMW Used Cars on Cars.co.za – February 2013

Model Views
BMW 3-Series 55 536
BMW 1-Series 16 274
BMW X5 9 200
BMW 5-Series 9 095
BMW M3 4 334

BMW in the news

BMW 3-Series Gran Turismo showcased at 2013 Chigago Auto Show

Toyota and BMW join forces to develop new technologies

The BMW 320i reviewed

Nissan X-Trail dci 4×4 LE Auto Review

It can still carry your bike in the back and get you through the mud, unlike many newer rivals,Nissan X-Trail, you’re still good in my books.

Nissan X-Trail dci 4×4 LE Auto review by John Beale

A cross-over SUV needs to provide both the comfort, performance and handling for in-town driving, as well as the utilitarian nature of the SUV, with some off-road prowess to match and interior space for the camping/biking/kids. It’s a lot to ask, but the Nissan, Honda CRV, Subaru Forester and Toyota Rav4 have been playing here for years.

Exterior and Interior

The competition has moved to softer, rounder angles (Honda, Koleos & old Rav4) where the Nissan X-Trail is still rather boxy and a bit more macho in looks. I like that. The 18-inch alloy rims, ¾ privacy glass and roof mounted spotlights give the top spec X-trail a bit more class.

Inside it’s typical Nissan fare, with a lot of hard plastics throughout the cabin, and familiar Nissan switchgear. It’s not exciting at all, but it meets the specification standards I would expect at this price, such as auto lights and wipers, keyless go (where you actually still turn the ignition, just without a key…weird!), panoramic sunroof, full leather seats, Bluetooth and reverse camera … sans touch screen / nav.

Open the hatch and there’s a pair of drawers that slide out, as well as storage space under the hardboard and roller cover for security. A total of 603 litres of luggage space, with over 1773 litres when seats are folded flat, which compares well to the Honda CRV’s 488/1557. The high rear tailgate also makes it ideal for taller items into the back, as the roofline doesn’t slope like more modern SUVs. Unfortunately the rear seats are a bit tight for adults, but visibility out of the vehicle is good, and I found it fairly easy to park and manage in town.

Nissan X-Trail engine

What is not so nice in town is the delay in power getting to the wheels. Foot flat to quickly sneak into traffic and there’s significant delay from the 2-litre 4cylinder (110kW/320NM @ 2000RPM )diesel working through a 6 speed Auto to the front wheels. The full turbo shove kicks at around 2300RPM, and once you’re moving, there’s a small band of power to work with. Even though the unit is fuel efficient, I achieved a combined 8.3l/100km (Claimed 7.4l/100km), I feel like it’s slightly underpowered and towing (750kg unbraked / 1350braked) could mean you won’t be overtaking and might struggle up the hills. The auto box is also not really a master of switching. Slow upshifts and downshifts in manual mode meant I just left it to do its thing in Auto, where it seems happiest.

Ride and handling

I unfortunately didn’t get to test the full capability of the 4×4-i system, which rather unique in this segment. It lets the driver select either 2/auto/full time locked 4-wheel drive. Advanced Hill Descent, Hill Start assist and Vehicle Dynamics control add to make this the most equipped against the competition. Ground clearance of 201mm (Against the Honda’s 170mm) reinforce the fact that the Nissan X-Trail has been engineered to make it off the beaten track. This does play against it in town, where it does tend to sway and pitch a bit more than expected, but there has to be some sacrifice to achieve the extremely comfortable ride that the X-trail offers. Steering feel is incredibly light, and takes some getting used to, as it pulls back to centre rather violently.

Nissan X-Trail dci 4×4 LE AT – Conclusion

The benefit of a boxier shape bring more practicality and space in the Nissan X-trail, than the competitors, but the interior is starting to show its age. When driven in a relaxed fashion, the extremely comfortable ride and quiet interior rewards, with the added benefit that the X-Trail has the goods to get going in the rough. I would probably opt for the petrol in manual guise, and get the 4×2, unless you really need the 4-wheel capabilities. Have a look at the new Honda CR-V as a direct rival. Soon to be released is the new Toyota Rav4 coming in April, and the Subaru Forester diesel coming soon.

  • View the Nissan X-Trail dci 4×4 LE AT: New / Used
  • Competitors:
    • Nissan X-Trail dci 4×4 LE AT – 110/320 @ 2000RPM, 7.4l/100km – R462 900
    • Honda CRV 2.2Dtec exclusive AT – 110/350 @2000RPM, 8.4l/100 – R499 000
    • Toyota Rav4 2.2D-4D GX (Manual) – 110/340 @2000RPM, 7.9l/100km – R407 300 (Soon to be replaced)
    • Subaru Forester diesel not yet available
  • Warranty and Service: Nissan – 3yr/90 000 Service plan

Nissan NV200 becomes Gibson Mobile Repair and Restoration Van

Nissan has joined forces with musical instrument maker, Gibson, to create a mobile repair guitar shop which comes in the form of a compact cargo van, the Nissan NV200. The NV200 Mobile Repair & Restoration Van will be showcased at the 2013 New York Auto Show this week.

“The Nissan NV200 Compact Cargo van’s small footprint makes it ideal for maneuvering in tight places, which is perfect for both urban music venues and crowded outdoor concerts where space is at a premium,” said Gibson CEO Henry Juszkiewicz. “The large cargo bay with standard integrated mounting points and available cargo hooks help make the vehicle configurable and customizable to suit the needs of a working guitar technician.” he added.

Nissan NV200 Compact Cargo Van built for your needs

Engine Capability

The NV200 Compact Cargo Van is fitted with a 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder engine the delivers 96kW and is mated to an Xtronic CVT. Fuel consumption is rated at 9.8-litres/100km in the combined cycle.

Exterior and Interior Styling Features

The Nissan NV200 Compact Cargo Van is covered in a full body wrap which reads ‘Gibson Repair and Restoration’ on one side and ‘Gibson Pro Audio’ on the other and also contains classic images of Gibson guitars and audio products such as speakers and headphones.

On the inside of the Nissan NV200, a custom rack is located behind the front seat and can hold up to four guitars. The cockpit has been customized with Gibson’s classic design and wood veneers in the dashboard that evoke classic Gibson materials such as mahogany and flamed maple. The seats are all covered in special leather. The Nissan NV200 also comes with a Gibson Pro Audio system provided by Onyko, Gibson’s Pro Audio consumer electronics’ brand.

“The Nissan NV200 Compact Cargo van is perfect for small businesses, entrepreneurs and dreamers,” said Joe Castelli, vice president, Commercial Vehicles and Fleet, Nissan North America.

2013 Goodwood Festival of Speed welcomes Lexus

Lexus has announced that it will make its first official appearance at the 2013 Goodwood Festival of Speed in the U.K. starting on 11 – 14 July 2013. Lexus, Toyota’s luxury automotive brand, will use the show to showcase the all-new IS sports sedan range.

Lexus IS sedan to go big at 2013 Goodwood Festival of Speed

Apart from taking part in the festivities at the 2013 Goodwood Festival of Speed, the new Lexus IS sedan will also be available for short test drives at the Goodwood Moving Motor Show where the public will have a chance to experience the vehicle for the first time in the U.K.

The Lexus GS executive saloon will also be making an appearance at this years’s event along with the full hybrid IS 300h in F-Sport trim which demonstrates how Lexus has introduced its sporting spirit to its range. The LFA supercar by Gazoo Racing will once again please crowds at the famous Goodwood Hillclimb.

The 2013 Goodwood Festival of Speed is considered to be the largest motoring garden party in the world and the event is held in the grounds of Goodwood House and combines a variety of cars, celebrities and motorsport ‘royalty’, making it a car culture event unlike any other.

Hyundai HND-9 Concept hints at future

Exterior renderings of the Hyundai HND-9 Concept have been revealed which hints at the brand’s future luxury sports coupe design and will be officially shown at the 2013 Seoul Motor Show on 28 March 2013. The Hyundai HND-9 Concept is the ninth concept developed by Hyundai Motor Group’s R&D Center in Namyang, Korea, and represents an evolution of Hyundai’s ‘fluidic sculpture’ design philosophy.

Hyundai HND-9 Concept boasts fresh styling

The Hyundai HND-9 Concept features a long hood and wheel base with sleek character lines running from the headlamps to the rear trunk. The wide hexagonal-shaped radiator grille is testement to the high performance of the HND-9 concept while the butterfly doors, silver exterior colour, dual twin muffler and unique front and rear headlights give the concept a futuristic look.

The rear-wheel drive Hyundai HND-9 concept is equipped with a 3.3-litre turbo GDi engine which delivers 272kW and is mated to a 8-speed automatic transmission.

Further details of the Hyundai HND-9 concept will be revealed at the 2013 Seoul Motor Show next week.

Jaguar XJR headed for global debut in New York

Jaguar is expanding its R-model lineup with the addition of the XJR which will be making its global New York Auto Show debut next week. The Jaguar XJR is the flagship sedan for Jaguar and will be showcased alongside the newest members of the Jaguar line-up including the new F-TYPE and and the all-wheel drive XF and XJ sedans.

Jaguar XJR has the power

The Jaguar XJR is powered by a 5.0-litre supercharged V8 engine that delivers 405kW and features bespoke chassis and aerodynamic developments. The XJR is the most ‘focused , agile and responsive Jaguar XJ ever made’, according to Jaguar. The Jaguar XJR combines supercar performance, sporty styling and high levels of luxury.

According to Adrian Hallmark, Global Brand Director, Jaguar, “The new Jaguar XJR epitomises the three pillars of technology, performance and contemporary design which the Jaguar brand stands for in the twenty-first century, while delivering new levels of dynamic ability in a luxury saloon.”

More details on the Jaguar XJR will be made available next week when the car makes its debut at the New York Auto Show.