Kia Optima gets new engine

Kia has announced that the Kia Optima GDi is now available with a new 2.5-litre Thetall GDi engine which reduces fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, while offering more power when compared to the previous engine.

Kia Optima GDi – More power, better efficiency

The new 2.5-litre Gasoline Direct Injection (GDi) engine now produces 148kW at 6 300rpm and 250Nm of torque compared to the previous 132kW/231Nm engine. The new engine produces 7% more torque at low engine rpm and up to 12% more torque at high engine rpm.

A cooling jet under the piston crown sprays oil over the piston walls which reduces friction and enhances fuel economy. The engine has also been designed to ‘breathe’ more and incorporates a system that adjusts the amount of air sucked into the combustion chamber, creating an optimal air-to-fuel mix. Two-phase injection reduces loading on the catalytic converter which reduces emissions.

Kia Optima GDi -Price

Kia Optima GDi R336 995

The Kia Optima price includes a 5-year/150 000km warranty, a 5-year/90 000km service plan and 3-year unlimited km Roadside Assistance. Service intervals are set at 1-year/15 000kms.

LEGO Ferrari shown in Australia

The first Grand Prix of the season took place this past weekend in Australia, but not before Ferrari drivers Fernando Alonso and Felipe Massa unveiled a full scale version of a Ferrari Formula 1 car constructed almost entirely from LEGO bricks. The LEGO Ferrari event was part of a new promotion run by Shell in Australia, in collaboration with Ferrari and the LEGO group.

F1 LEGO Ferrari is one of a kind

The unveiling of the F1 LEGO Ferrari coincided with the launch of a Shell promotion where customers are able to purchase limited edition Ferrari cars such as the 250 GT Berlinetta, the F40, the FXX and the 458 Italia.

To launch the promotion, experts constructed a 1:1 scale model of the Ferrari F150 Italia with which Maranello Scuderia competed in the 2011 Formula 1 World Championship. The scale model took several months to design and it features genuine Pirelli race tyres and a large seat to accommodate a driver. The steering wheel is an exact replica of the original and is made entirely from LEGO bricks.

2014 SRT Viper Time Attack to make New York Auto Show debut

The 2014 SRT Viper TA (Time Attack) will be making its debut at the New York Auto Show on 27 March 2013 and has been configured by Chrysler Group’s SRT (Street and Racing Technology) team in collaboration with professional road racers. Only 33 examples will be made, all of which will feature the special ‘Crusher Orange’ exterior paint colour.

2014 SRT Viper Time Attack Specifications and Features

Engine Capability

The 2014 SRT Viper TA is fitted with a handcrafted, aluminium 8.4-litre V10 over-head valve engine that produces 477kW and 813Nm of torque. The SRT Viper TA is based on the 2013 SRT Viper and uses a majority of pre-developed components from the SRT stable. The suspension has been specifically tuned for track use and a two-mode Bilstein Damptronic suspension system provides firmer damping when compared to the Viper GTS models.

Exterior and Interior Styling Features

The SRT Viper TA features ‘Crusher Orange’ exterior paint with black 2D TA logos behind the front wheels and a Stryker logo can be found on the front fascia and on the lightweight Sidewinder II wheels. The exterior aerodynamics package includes carbon fibre front splitters and a rear spoiler while a carbon fibre rear applique accents the rear width proportions.

On the inside, the driver-orientated cabin of the SRT Viper TA features the standard premium ballistic fabric racing seats from Sabelt with a lightweight fibreglass shell created by resin transfer moulding technology which reduces weight and increases durability. The driver and passenger seat can accommodate a 3 or 6-point harness for racing seat belts. The black interior is accented with ‘Crusher Orange’ stitching on the cloth seats, instrument panel, centre stack, console, hand brake, shifter boot, shifter head, steering wheel and doors.

The 2014 SRT Viper Time Attack edition will be built at the Conner Avenue Assembly Plant in Detroit with production starting in the third quarter of 2013.

Jaguar XFR-S makes Goodwood debut

The new 2014 Jaguar XFR-S will make its global debut at the world famous Goodwood Hill today as part of the Goodwood Festival of Speed. The Jaguar XFR-S, the fastest Jaguar sports saloon ever, will be driven in front of a media audience by 1988 Le Mans 24hr race winner Andy Wallace.

Jaguar XFR-S set to impress

The Jaguar XFR-S, which is a prototype version, is finished in Italian Racing Red, and will be joined at the Goodwood Festival of Speed by Jaguar classics such as the 1962 Jaguar Mk. II by Jaguar Heritage Racing and a 1954 ‘short nose’ Jaguar D-Type which is a development prototype.

The 2014 Jaguar XFR-S can sprint from zero to 100km/h in 4.6 seconds and reach an electronically limited top speed of 300km/h. The XFR-S is powered by a 5.0-litre supercharged V8 engine that produces 405kW and 680Nm of torque, some 29kW and 55Nm more than the Jaguar XFR.

Adrian Hallmark, Jaguar Global Brand Director said, Im delighted that Jaguar is able to present the XFR-S in action for the first time in the UK, and that a Jaguar motorsport hero will be behind the wheel. The crowd at Goodwood will have a unique opportunity to see and hear the ultimate expression of seductive Jaguar design and sporting performance in the XFR-S – well in advance of first deliveries to customers this summer.

New Mercedes-Benz S-Class interior revealed

The new Mercedes-Benz S-Class has been teased with the release of interior photographs and the company calls it ‘the best automobile in the world’. According to Mercedes-Benz, the new S-Class embodies ‘perfection to the last detail’ with the result being ‘The Essence of Luxury’.

New Mercedes-Benz S-Class is classy personified

The new Mercedes-Benz S-Class features highly sophisticated automatic climate control functions while the seats are considered to set the benchmark in automobile engineering. Both the climate control and the seats are operated with maximum convenience using several actuators and electric motors.

The interior is luxurious, elegant and stylish in its design. The interior features a generous amount of wood trim, especially in the dashboard and centre console. Metallised switch surfaces with pearl-effect paint finishes in three colour shades further enhance the interior.

The ‘First Class Rear’ features a business centre console which integrates a telephone handset, additional storage compartments and a folding table. The new S-Class also features a new command centre with a redesigned display that extends in front of the driver and provides numerous functions in a ergonomical way while appearing to be ‘free-floating’. The new centre display is enhanced by the ‘corona effect’ ambient back lighting.

Two high resolution colour displays in 8:3 format with a 12.3-inch diagonal screen form the basis of the new information centre of the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class. The left display provides relevant information to the driver while the right screen allows for control of the infotainment system and comfort functions.

Superior seating options

The new Mercedes-Benz S-Class offers five different rear seat variants including an Executive seat with a backrest angle adjustable by 43.5 degrees. The seats also incorporate a world-first ENERGIZING massage function that have 14 separately actuated air cushions in the backrest and a warming function. A choice of six massage programmes are available with two using the heating function. Another world-first are the reversing fans used in the active seat ventilation system. Using the reversing fans, the airflow in the seat structure can be reversed which reduces draughts and enhances comfort.
The Warm Comfort package includes heated armrests and door centre panels in the front and rear. The package also includes a heated steering wheel and the fast-responding seat heating Plus which is controlled using the central display or the remote control in the rear.

THERMOTRONIC Climate Control

The THERMOTRONIC automatic climate control features a mass flow regulating concept which allows individual occupants to achieve their personal comfort needs. New features include autonomous adjustment options for the driver and front passenger sides as well as individual modes which include ‘Focus’, ‘Medium’ and ‘Diffuse’.

The ‘active perfuming system’ is another world-first as part of the AIR-BALANCE package. The system is switched on and off manually with manual adjustment of the intensity. The perfume atomisation system individualises the smell of the vehicle, yet it does not permanently change the interior smell and perfume molecules do not stick on fabric or clothing. The air filtering system has been enhanced and now has the ability to ‘clean’ the air by rendering bacteria, viruses and spores inactive through ionisation.

Entertainment at its best

The new Mercedes-Benz S-Class is the first sedan to feature a Frontbass system as standard. The system’s woofers are installed within the bodyshell using the 40-litre space in the cross-member and side-member as a resonance chamber. The system includes 10 speakers. As an alternative, customers can opt for the Burmester Surround Sound system or the Burmester High-End 3D Surround System.

A multi-user entertainment system is another world first for the S-Class which allows independent access to the media sources of the entertainment system from any of the four seats and these include radio, TV, internet, navigation, DVD player and USB-connected devices. The driver control function also allows the driver to route any video or audio source to the display or headset of any passenger.

It has not been confirmed when the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class will reach South Africa.

Jaguar Land Rover Sales Summary for February 2013

Jaguar Land Rover sales remained stable in the month of February 2013 with both the Discovery 4 and Evoque leading the charge for the brand in South Africa. Here is a breakdown of Jaguar Land Rover sales performance for February 2013.

Jaguar Land Rover sales February 2013

Total sales: 824 units
Total Market Share: 1.8%
Passenger vehicle sales: 751 units (segment share: 2.4%)
Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) sales: 73 units (segment share: 0.5%)

Top 5 Jaguar Land Rover new car sales February 2013 compared to January 2013

Model	Sales
Land Rover Discovery 4	248 (251)
Range Rover Evoque	240 (333)
Land Rover Freelander 2	89 (76)
Jaguar XF	81 (84)
Land Rover Defender	73 (54)

Top 5 Jaguar Land Rover used cars on Cars.co.za February 2013

Model	Views
Land Rover Discovery 4	4 798
Land Rover Range Rover	3 877
Land Rover Defender	2 489
Land Rover Freelander	2 065
Range Rover Evoque	1472

Jaguar Land Rover in the News

Range Rover Evoque Black Design Pack launched

Land Rover electric Defender revealed

Land Rover introduces world’s first 9-speed automatic transmission

2014 Range Rover gets new V6 engine

Honda Sales Summary for February 2013

Compared to January 2013, Honda had a relatively positive sales month in South Africa in February with the Accord, Civic and Ballade posting increases in sales for the month. Here is a breakdown of Honda sales for February 2013.

Honda sales summary February 2013

Total new car sales: 1 325 units
Total market share: 2.9% (segment share: 4.3%)

Top 5 Passenger Honda sales February 2013 compared to January 2013

Model	Sales
Honda Brio	334 (357)
Honda Jazz	308 (332)
Honda Civic	224 (121)
Honda CR-V	222 (260)
Honda Ballade	165 (135)

Top 5 Honda used cars on Cars.co.za February 2013

Model	Views
Honda Civic	3 946
Honda CR-V	3 437
Honda Jazz	2 931
Honda Accord	2 165
Honda Ballade	1 864

Honda in the News

Honda Civic Tourer Concept hints at its future

Honda to showcase two new concepts at 2013 Geneva Motor Show

Honda Urban SUV Concept makes Detroit Auto Show debut

Renault Ross Lovegrove concept to show new design language

Renault and Ross Lovegrove of Lovegrove Studio have collaborated to explore a new design language. The new Renault Ross Lovegrove concept will be unveiled at the Triennale of Milano on 8 April 2013 which will underline Renault’s design strategy.

Renault Ross Lovegrove concept taps into nature

According to Renault, the design of the concept car will based on the workings of nature. By examining nature, its systems and energy transactions this project intends to bring awareness and understanding of those phenomena and their current impact.

Ross Lovegrove and his studio will use contemporary computational design with the intention of revealing nature’s underlying blueprints and transfer them into a new design language.

Further details regarding the Renault Lovegrove concept car will be made available once the vehicle has been unveiled at the Triennale of Milan from 8-14 April 2013.

Mahindra e2o is the future of mobility

Mahindra has launched the all-electric, zero emission e2o in India this week. The Mahindra e2o is the manifestation of Mahindra’s vision of the Future of Mobility and incorporates the 5C’s framework of Clean, Convenient, Connected, Clever and Cost Effective. The e2o will be ready for sale in international markets in 2014 with an expected price of approximately R100 000.

Mahindra e2o is a city car

The Mahindra e2o is Mahindra’s contribution to offer customers a clean, smart and economical personal mobility solution in the face of larger issues such as environmental degradation, pollution, climate change, energy security and rising oil prices.

The Mahindra e2o is a city car that is powered by lithium-ion batteries and a three-phase induction electric motor. The e2o has a range of up to 100km and can be charged using a standard 15A household socket in five hours. The e2o is fully automatic and features a Boost Mode to enhance acceleration while the special ABS body panels are scratch and dent resistant.

Mahindra e2o uses clever technology

The control interface of the vehicle can be made available on a smartphone by downloading an app and gives the owner the opportunity to remotely manage several functions of the e2o. For instance, the app can help lock the car by sending a lock command or the air conditioning can be turned on remotely using the app. A trip planner integrates distance to empty information into the maps and helps plan each journey according to the available charge.

The Mahindra e2o features 10 onboard computers that provide feedback on the vehicles functions and alerts the owner to any problems. The e2o can also alert the owner when the charge plug has not been turned on, despite being plugged in. The e2o also provides graphical details of your drive efficiency over the past six days and provides tips on how to improve efficiency.

The Mahindra e2o is our humble effort to usher in positive change in the lives of our customers. EV’s have always had the potential to emerge as a serious alternative to fossil fuel driven vehicles. With the Mahindra e2o we have taken the lead in not only creating a comprehensive ecosystem to nurture sustainable mobility solutions, but have also firmly placed a choice in the hands of our consumers. They now have the opportunity of shaping the future of mobility as we know it today, said Dr Pawan Goenka, Chairman, Mahindra Reva Electric Vehicles Pvt. Ltd.

New Ford Kuga launched in South Africa

The new Ford Kuga has been launched in South Africa, which for the first time features EcoBoost engine technology. The Kuga’s body has been restyled to match Fords latest design philosophy and the Kuga range includes six derivatives with three specification levels on offer.

The all-new Kuga line-up is well-rounded and comprehensive with a host of fantastic features that make it the perfect choice for families. Fords smart technologies offer extensive safety and convenience benefits that will be welcomed in this market, says Ford Marketing Manager Gavin Golightly.

New Ford Kuga brings intelligent style to SUV segment

Engine Capability

The new Ford Kuga introduces two new engines including a turbocharged 1.6-litre EcoBoost engine and a 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine. The 1.6-litre EcoBoost engine comes in two power versions. The 110kW version delivers 240Nm of torque and is available in FWD and mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. Fuel consumption for this engine is rated at 6.6-litres/100km on the combined cycle while emitting 154 g/km of CO2.

The 134kW version also delivers 240Nm but is available in AWD and mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission with SelectShift. Fuel consumption is rated at 7.7-litres/100km on the combined cycle while emitting 179 g/km of CO2.

The new Ford Kuga is also available with a 2.0-litre TDCi Duratorq engine producing 120kW with a maximum torque figure of 340Nm. It features AWD and Fords 6-speed PowerShift automatic transmission with SelectShift and uses 6.2- litres/100km with CO2 emissions of 162 g/km.

Exterior Styling Features

The angled windshield, dynamic roofline, pronounced wheel arches and raised beltline of the Kuga add to the athletic feel of the car. The slim upper grille opening emphasizes the vehicles width, while the three dimensional hood and three-section trapezoidal grille highlight and signify the Ford oval.

The all-new Kuga is available in Metallic Paint or the Titanium pack.

Interior Styling Features

The new Ford Kuga features sophisticated soft-touch surfaces, contoured seats and electroplated metal finishes. The Kuga also offers ample luggage space with the rear seats able to fold down in one movement. The centre console offers different storage solutions and features USB ports and a 230-volt power converter which is located at the back of the floor console for easy plug-in for laptops, cellphones and other electronics.

Ford Kuga Range Features

The Ambiente version is equipped with power heated side mirrors, front and rear fog lamps, 17-inch alloy wheels, Auto-Start-Stop (FWD models only) , Ford Keyless push button start, EcoMode, SYNC with Bluetooth and Voice Control, steering wheel audio controls and cruise control.

The Titanium models feature 18-inch alloy wheels, BiXenon headlamps, auto headlamps with auto high beam, auto headlamp levelling, static cornering lights and Daytime Running Lights, rear LED tail lamps, rain sensing wipers, Roll Stability Control with Curve Control and smart keyless entry with handsfree open sesame tailgate.

The Trend models are styled with auto folding mirrors with puddle lamps, rear parking sensors, leather sports seats, Sony Audio system with nine speakers, 4.2-inch TFT (Thin-Film Transitor) screen and Dual Electronic Air Temperature Control.

New Ford Kuga Price

Model	Price
Ford Kuga 1.6 EcoBoost Ambiente FWD	R289 900
Ford Kuga 1.6 EcoBoost Trend FWD	R324 900
Ford Kuga 1.6 EcoBoost Trend Auto AWD	R364 900
Ford Kuga 1.6 EcoBoost Titanium Auto AWD	R398 900
Ford Kuga 2.0 TDCi Trend Powershift AWD	R384 900
Ford Kuga 2.0 TDCi Trend Powershift AWD	R418 900

The all-new Ford Kuga comes with a 4-year/120 000km warranty, a 4-year/80 000km service plan for petrol derivatives with service intervals set at 20 000km. Diesel models come with a 4-year/90 000km service plan with service intervals set at 15 000km. A 3-year/unlimited km’s roadside assistance plan is also included.