Mercedes-Benz Limited Edition SLS AMG GT3 45th Anniversary

There will be no more than five Mercedes-Benz limited edition SLS AMG GT3 45th Anniversary vehicles to mark the 45 year anniversary of the first SL model. The Mercedes-Benz limited edition SLS AMG GT3 45th Anniversary will be built by hand in Affalterbach, Germany. Record DTM champion and AMG brand ambassador, Bernd Schneider will be involved in the production process and will install the AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine together with an AMG engine fitter.

??Special Features

The Mercedes-Benz limited edition SLS AMG GT3 45th Anniversary is finished in the new designo magno graphite matt paint finish which is complemented with AMG light-alloy wheels, also finished in designo magno graphite. The “45 Years of Driving Performance” logo is framed in silver on the GT3’s gullwing doors, which along with the bonnet, mudguards, boot lid, rear wings, front and rear apron, front splitter and rear diffuser are made from lightweight Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic or CFRP.

The interior exhibits a functional racing car atmosphere. The steel roll-over cage is finished in matt magno graphite that matches the exterior and a special ‘1 of 5’ logo is found on the seats and on the centre console. The limited edition SLS AMG GT3 “45th Anniversary” is rounded off with a high quality AMG indoor car cover with a “45 Year of Driving Performance” logo.

The handover of the five limited edition SLS AMG GT3 “45th Anniversary” vehicles will take place at Mercedes-Benz-AMG in Affalterbach. Customers will receive a tour of the AMG facility as well as an introduction to the operation of the vehicle conducted by AMG brand ambassador, Bernd Schneider.

Range Rover Evoque Wins 2012 Womens World Car of the Year Award

The jury of Women’s World Car of the Year, which comprises women motoring writers from 12 countries, has completed the voting process to announce their choices for the best cars of 2012. The Range Rover Evoque has come out on top to claim the 2012 Womens World Car of the Year Award.

The 2012 Women’s World Car of the Year Award consists of four categories namely Family Car, Luxury Car, Sports Car and Economy Car. Judges award points for every car from a voting criteria and the car that receives the highest number of points, wins the category. The car that receives the highest number of points overall wins the category and the supreme award.

Range Rover Evoque takes top spot

The results for the 2012 Womens Car of the Year Award are as follows:

Family Car

  1. BMW 3-series
  2. Audi Q3
  3. Ford Focus

?Luxury Car

  1. Range Rover Evoque
  2. Jaguar XJ
  3. Audi A6

Sports Car

  1. Porsche 911
  2. Jaguar XKR
  3. Mercedes Benz SLK

Economy Car

  1. Honda Civic
  2. VW Up!
  3. Ford Fiesta

Supreme Award

  1. Range Rover Evoque
  2. BMW 3-series
  3. Audi Q3

The voting procedures were audited by international accountancy company, Grant Thornton. The supreme award trophy and category-winner certificates will be presented at the 2012 Paris Motor Show which runs from 27 September to 14 October 2012

MINI Inspired by Goodwood available in South Africa?

The MINI Inspired by Goodwood special edition is available in South Africa and according to MINI, it is the “most exclusive and luxurious special edition the brand has ever launched”. South African customers can place their orders for one of only 1 000 MINI Inspired by Goodwood models produced worldwide, with only 10 available in South Africa.

MINI Inspired by Goodwood – ??Unique Features

The MINI Inspired by Goodwood special edition is the result of a collaboration between MINI and Rolls-Royce, offering high levels of luxury and performance. The MINI Inspired by Goodwood is powered by a 1.6-litre,four-cylinder engine with a Twin Scroll turbocharger, direct petrol injection and variable valve control that produces 135kW.

On the inside, the MINI Inspired by Goodwood features the exclusive Rolls-Royce colour ‘Cornsilk’ on the dashboard, central console, air vents, carpets, heated lounge leather seats, roof lining, doors and interior cladding. The dashboard and door handles are finished in Walnutt Burr, which is a premium wood trim exclusively used by Rolls-Royce. The roof lining, sun visors and rear storage tray are finished in cashmere and the MINI Inspired by Goodwood also features deep-pile lambswool foot mats which are a common feature on current Rolls-Royce models.

The MINI Inspired by Goodwood exterior colour is finished in the exclusive Rolls-Royce Diamond Black metallic or Reef Blue metallic and rides on 17-inch light alloy wheels with multi-spoke design.

Standard Features

Standard features for the MINI Inspired by Goodwood include Xenon Adaptive Headlights, Park Distance Control, automatic air-conditioning, an onboard computer, MINI Navigation and the Radio MINI Visual Boost, which includes the Harman Kardon hi-fi speaker system.

MINI Inspired by Goodwood – Price

MINI Inspired by Goodwood – R511 592

The price includes MINI’s 3-year/75 000km motorplan as well as a 2-year, unlimited mileage warranty.

2014 Mazda6 shown at Paris Motor Show

The 2012 Paris Motor show has marked the world premiere of the 2014 Mazda6 which incorporates the ‘KODO – Soul of Motion’ design philosophy and Mazda’s full range of SKYACTIV Technology. Both the sedan and wagon variants of the 2014 Mazda6 are currently on display at the 2012 Paris Motor Show. The Mazda6 will be available in South Africa in the first quarter of 2013.

Smart Tech for 2014 Mazda6

Both models on display are equipped with Mazda’s new SKYACTIV-D 2.2-litre clean diesel which is available in either standard power or high power versions. The new 2014 Mazda6 will also be available with a choice of the SKYACTIV-G 2.0 and the SKYACTIV-G 2.5 petrol engines.

The new Mazda6 for the first time introduces the i-ELOOP brake energy regeneration system, which along with SKYACTIV technology, improves fuel efficiency significantly.

The South African specification and price for the new 2014 Mazda6 will be made available closer to its South African launch.

Chevrolet Lumina gets upgrades

The Chevrolet Lumina sedan and Ute have received upgrade packages that provide enhanced ride and handling as well as improved braking. The V8 Lumina sedan has also received a minor cosmetic change with the addition of a chrome belt line.

Chevrolet Lumina gets improved brakes and handling

The Chevrolet Lumina sedan and Ute is now available with the latest Performance Sport Suspension package that includes stiffer stabiliser bars and dampers that have been fine tuned to offer better handling and ride quality. The Lumina also benefits from revised braking and the front brakes now feature four-piston, two-piece Brembo aluminium callipers with large 355mm pillar-vented discs for improved cooling and durability. The package is completed with 19-inch high-strength alloy wheels fitted with low profile tyres which further enhance grip.

Engine Power and Features

The Chevrolet Lumina is powered by a 6.0-litre V8 all-aluminium engine that delivers 270kW and 530Nm of torque. This engine is mated to either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed automatic gearbox. In the case of the automatic variant, power is rated at 260kW.

The Lumina in executive trim includes leather seats, dual zone climate control, power windows and side mirrors, sport seats with 4-way electronic and lumbar adjustment, sport alloy pedals and a driver information centre.

Safety features include six airbags, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) and Traction Control. Central locking with auto-lock and an immobiliser is fitted as standard.

Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo Concept Revealed

The Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo concept car has been revealed at the 2012 Paris Motor Show. The Panamera Sport Turismo concept features the next generation hybrid drive with a sporty body, combining Porsche performance with everyday practicality.

Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo Concept – Features

??Hybrid Capability

The Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo drive technology is the next development step towards the plug-in hybrid and is recognised by the ‘e-hybrid’ badge on the front wings of the car. The Panamera Sport Turismo’s drive system comprises of a lithium-ion battery and a new electric motor that produces 70kW which is backed up with a supercharged 3.0-litre V6 engine that produces 245kW. Together, the system produces a total power output of 306kW and the Panamera Sport Turismo can be driven in pure electric mode up to speeds of 130km/h with a range of over 30km.

Combined-cycle fuel consumption is rated at 3.5-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 82g/km. 0-100km/h is achieved in less than 6.0 seconds. The lithium-ion battery is charged while driving and can be charged externally within 2.5 hours depending on the power source via a charging interface on the vehicle.

??Exterior Features

The Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo is 4.95m long, 1.99m wide and stands 1.4m high. The front indicators and side lights are integrated into the C-shaped headlights which are mounted in the large air inlets. The four-point LED lights together with the ‘C-Blade’ headlights define the front-end of the Panamera Sport Turismo concept.

Instead of conventional side mirrors, the Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo concept has two cameras mounted in the side air outlets which project images onto displays in the cockpit. The rear-end has been completely remodelled and features LED rear lights. The brake light is positioned between the four-point LED lights and an adaptive carbon rear spoiler offers improved downforce.

The milled aluminium battery housing is mounted under the boot floor and is made of electrochromatic glass which reveals the energy source and is illuminated in ‘Acid Green’ with the touch of a button. The Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo concept is finished in the new ‘Liquid Metal Blue’ colour.

??Interior Features

The interior features a large central TFT colour display that is positioned in front of the driver and provides vehicle related information. The two side mirror camera displays are mounted alongside the TFT display. The Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo concept is started by touching the colour display. A touch display on the centre console incorporates additional controls and serves as the control centre for the car. All car functions are controlled by the multi-touch functionality and these include the automatic climate control, seat adjustments, lights, reversing camera and the functions of the Porsche Communication Management (PCM).

New Infiniti EX Compact SUV launched in South Africa

The new Infiniti EX compact SUV has been launched in South Africa. The new Infiniti EX offers a sporty SUV design matched with luxury and powerful engines to provide an elegant and stylish offering in the compact SUV segment.

New Infiniti EX Compact SUV competes with the best

Engine Capability??

Two engine variants are available in the new Infiniti EX range and Intelligent all-wheel drive systems are fitted on all models in the range. The EX30d is fitted with a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 diesel engine and is available across three model grades namely the EX, EX GT and the EX GT Premium. This engine produces 175kW at 3 750rpm with a maximum torque figure of 550Nm available from 1 750rpm. Acceleration to 100km/h is achieved in 7.9 seconds and the EX30d will reach a top speed of 221km/h. The combine fuel consumption figure for the EX30d is 8.5-litres/100km with a corresponding CO2 emissions figure of 224g/km. Fuel consumption is reduced to 7.2-litres/100km on the open road with a cruising range of up to 1 100km.

The petrol powered EX37 GT and GT Premium models are fitted with a 3.7-litre V6 engine that produces 235kW at 7 000rpm with a maximum torque figure of 360Nm available at 5 200rpm. Acceleration to 100km/h for this variant will take 6.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 240km/h. This engine features Variable Valve Event and Lift (VVEL) which contributes to a combined fuel consumption figure of 11.3-litres/km with a corresponding CO2 emissions figure of 288g/km.

Both engine variants are fitted with a 7-speed automatic transmission with a Drive Sport (DS) mode. The DS mode locks out the two top gears and allows for manual shift control for a more spirited driving experience.

Exterior and Interior Styling

The new Infiniti EX exhibits the stance of a compact SUV while incorporating coupe-like styling and proportions into its design. The double-arch grille blends in with the smooth contours of the body and is accented by complexly-shaped xenon headlamps. Chrome detailing is used around the glasshouse, forming a strong character line towards the rear C-pillar. At the rear, the new Infiniti EX features LED tail lights and an integrated spoiler. The EX rides on 18-inch alloy wheels and the rear windows feature privacy glass.

The interior is luxurious and features a ‘sculpted-out cockpit’ that is orientated towards the driver for relaxed and comfortable driving. Leather upholstery fitted all-round and is standard on the GT and GT Premium models. In the diesel range, luggage space is increased with a 45-litre under-floor compartment. For larger loads, the EX’s split-folding rear seats can be remotely lowered or raised at the push of a button.

Safety Features

Standard safety features across the new Infiniti EX range include Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist System (BAS), Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), six airbags, ISOFIX child seat mountings and active head rests.

The EX30d GT Premium adds Lane Departure Prevention (LDP), Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC) with Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA), Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and Infiniti’s Around View Monitor (AVM).

New ??Infiniti EX Compact SUV – Price

Infiniti EX30d Standard R595 000
Infiniti EX30d GT Grade R635 870
Infiniti EX30d GT Premium R677 276
Infiniti EX37 GT Grade R626 000
Infiniti EX37 GT Premium R667 406

All Infiniti vehicles include a 3-year/100 00km warranty, 5-year/100 000km maintenance plan and 24/7 roadside assistance.

New Peugeot 208 Range in South Africa

Peugeot has launched the new Peugeot 208 range in South Africa. The new Peugeot 208 is offered in three attractive models namely the 1.2 VTi Access, the 1.2 VTi Active and the 1.6 VTi Allure. The new 208 is compact, light, spacious and aerodynamic and offers a high level of quality and innovative technology in the highly competitive compact hatchback segment.

New Peugeot 208 – Specifications and Features

??Engine Capability

A new-generation three-cylinder petrol engine makes its debut in the new Peugeot 208 and comes in the form of the 1.2-litre VTi engine that is both compact and lightweight and features Variable Valve Timing (VVT). This unit produces 60kW at 5 750rpm with a maximum torque figure of 118Nm available at 2 750rpm. This engine is capable of a combined fuel consumption figure of 4.5-litres/100km with a corresponding CO2 emissions figure of 104g/km.

The range-topping 208 Allure is powered by a 1.6-litre, four-cylinder engine that produces 88kW at 6 000rpm with a maximum torque figure of 160Nm available from 4 250rpm. This engine achieves a combined fuel consumption figure of 5.8-litres/100km with a corresponding CO2 emissions figure of 134g/km. Both engines are mated with a 5-speed manual transmission that transfers power to the front wheels.

Exterior Styling??

The new Peugeot 208 features a distinctly new front-end design that incorporates a bold ‘floating’ grille that’s accented with either aluminium grey or chrome surrounds and a honeycomb-style radiator further emphasises the unique design character of the new 208. The 208 Allure benefits from an LED light guide and three LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) which are incorporated into the headlights.

At the rear, the boomerang-shaped light clusters incorporate Peugeot’s unique light signature defined by three illuminated ‘claws’ that reinforce the brands feline-inspired design cues. The entry-level 208 Access rides on 15-inch steel rims with plastic wheel trims while the 208 Active rides on turbine-steel, seven-spoke alloy wheels. The range-topping 208 allure benefits from double-spoke 16-inch alloy wheels as standard. The new Peugeot 208 is available with a choice of 10 exterior colours including ‘Oasis Blue’ which is available exclusively for the 208 Allure.

??Interior Styling

The interior styling of the new Peugeot 208 reflects a new design approach that creates a more intimate relationship between the car and driver. The instruments and controls are positioned ergonomically around the driver to enhance driving comfort and pleasure. The instrument panel is raised to meet the driver’s natural range of vision and combines analogue dials with a multi-function digital display. The small diameter steering wheel makes manoeuvring easier while enhancing feel and feedback.

A large 7-inch touch-screen is fitted on the higher-spec models and features carefully designed graphics with intuitive positioning and operation. The screen provides access to various multimedia functions including the FM/AM radio, Bluetooth telephony system and music files via USB or Bluetooth audio streaming. The interior is spacious and the boot offers 311 litres of space, 15 litres more than the previous model.

??Standard Features??

Standard features for the entry level 1.2 VTi Access includes air-conditioning, electric front windows, height-adjustable driver’s seat, height and reach-adjustable steering wheel, multi-function trip computer and refrigerated glove box. The 208 Access also benefits from a high-mounted MP3-compatible CD player with Bluetooth functionality for hands-free cellphone connectivity and audio streaming.

The 1.2 VTi Active gets front fog lights, electric side mirrors, cruise control, a seven-inch touch-screen and a 60/40 rear split bench with a through loading feature. The 1.6 VTi Allure benefits from 16-inch alloys with lower profile tyres. The back and rear windows are also tinted. The 208 Allure features an automatic dual-zone climate control system as well as an electrochromatic rear view mirror and leather trimmed steering wheel.

New Peugeot 208 – Price

Peugeot 208 1.2 VTi Access R154 900
Peugeot 208 1.2 VTi Active R169 900
Peugeot 208 1.6 VTi Allure R189 900

Prices include a 5-year/60 000km Premium Plan and a 3-year/100 000km warranty.

New Ford Focus ST coming to South Africa

Ford’s first global performance vehicle, the new Ford Focus ST will go on sale in South Africa in November 2012. The new Ford Focus ST with its advanced EcoBoost engine offers performance, dynamic handling capability and style as well as a comprehensive range of driver assistance features.

New Ford Focus ST brings EcoBoost to SA

Engine Capability

The new Ford Focus ST is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged EcoBoost engine that produces 184kW at 5 500rpm with a maximum torque figure of 360Nm available between 2000rpm and 4 500rpm. The 2.0-litre EcoBoost engine is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. The Focus ST returns a combined cycle fuel consumption figure of 7.2-litres/100km with a corresponding CO2 emissions figure of 169g/km, which is 20% less than the outgoing model. The Ford ST will accelerate to 100km/h in 6.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 248km/h.

The 2.0-litre EcoBoost engine achieves its performance with the combination of high pressure direct injection, low-inertia turbocharging, Twin-independent Variable Cam Timing (Ti-VCT) as well as redesigned intake and exhaust systems and unique calibration. A sound symposer relays the distinctive engine sound directly from the intake into the cabin.

??Driving Dynamics??

The new Ford Focus ST features a new Sport Steering System with a variable ratio steering rack that reduces steering sensitivity when driving in a straight line and increases sensitivity while cornering. The Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) system is specially calibrated and detects and counters torque steer using Ford’s Torque Steer Compensation (TSC). The Electronic Stability Program offers three modes depending on the preference of the driver. The ST also features Torque Vectoring Control which applies brake torque to the inner wheel while cornering to reduce under steer and the Cornering Under Steer Control (CUSC) applies torque based on the under steer prior to ESP, whether it’s on or off.

The Focus ST features uprated shock absorbers and springs which lower the chassis by 10mm and the rear suspension has been revised with new parts developed specially for the ST. The uprated suspension knuckles and the new anti-roll bar design provide enhanced feedback and control while driving.

Exterior and Interior Styling

Available as a five-door hatchback, the new Ford Focus ST can be had in the signature colour ‘Tangerine Scream’ or ‘Spirit Blue’, ‘Race Red’, ‘Panther Black’, ‘Frozen White’ and ‘Moondust Silver’. The ST features Ford’s signature one-piece trapezoidal grille, bulging side skirts and a new rear bumper with diffuser-style vents in the lower fascia. The roof spoiler is designed to improve stability at high speed and reduce drag.

The interior is distinctly sporty with a specially designed steering wheel, gearshift and pedals while the dark headlining and trim on the pillars adds to its sporty appeal. The lowered Recaro seats offer length adjustment and cushion tilt. Trim options include ST1 and ST3. ST1 offers keyless start, deflation detection system, cruise control and power 1-shot up/down driver front and rear windows. The ST3 trim level adds automatic folding mirrors, keyless entry, DEATC, rain sensitive wipers and Bi-xenon HID headlamps including Daytime Running Lights (DRLs), automatic dimming rear view mirror and automatic wipers. This trim level also includes leather Recaro seats with 8-way adjustability with pull-out cushions and a Recaro rear bench.

The new Ford Focus ST also benefits from Ford SYNC which is a software platform that provides hands-free, voice activated in-car connectivity. External devices are connected using Bluetooth or USB.

New Ford Focus ST – Price

Ford Focus ST 2.0 ST1 R309 530
Ford Focus ST 2.0 ST3 R353 700

Lexus LF-CC Concept Shown in Paris?

The Lexus LF-CC concept is currently on display at the 2012 Paris Motor Show which shows the latest evolution of the company’s L-finesse design language and signature ‘spindle grille’ which will become an integral part of future Lexus D-segment vehicles. The mid-sized coupe LF-CC concept is a compact, rear-wheel drive, full hybrid vehicle that draws inspiration from the LF-LC concept first shown at the Detroit Motor Show earlier in the year.

Lexus LF-CC Concept shows bold styling

Engine Capability

The Lexus LF-CC Concept is equipped with an all-new, highly efficient hybrid powertrain. The Lexus LF-CC makes use of a 4-cylinder, 2.5-litre engine that is mated to a high output, water cooled permanent magnet electric motor. Other components in the hybrid drive system include a generator, high-performance battery and power split device. The engine adopts the Atkinson cycle and D-4S direct injection technology to optimise power and fuel efficiency.

Lexus plans to introduce the new hybrid powertrain into its model range in the near future.

??Exterior Styling

The signature ‘spindle grille’ is the dominant feature on the Lexus LF-CC concept and is encased in a metal-finish surround and takes on a 3-D appearance. A 3 LED-projector headlight design is seen between the lower and upper fender surfaces and independent Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) are integrated into the upper bumper surface.

The convex curve of the bonnet meets a steeply raked windscreen with a roofline that peaks at the rear to emphasise the rear-wheel capability of the Lexus LF-CC. At the back, the full bumper merges with the rear wheel arches which places emphasis on the LF-CC’s broad stance. The L-shaped rear combination lamps feature a layered 3-D design and the lower concave bumper incorporates a full width spoiler. The Lexus LF-CC exterior colour is finished in ‘Fluid Titanium’.

??Interior Styling

The interior represents a further development of Lexus’ Human Machine Interface (HMI) design philosophy. The dashboard is divided into two zones namely the upper Display Zone and the lower Operation Zone. The Display Zone features a multi-display screen while the Operation Zone incorporates the specially designed gear lever and an innovative touch tracer display for remote system control.

The Lexus LF-CC features a wide grip steering wheel, optimal pedal placement and highly visible instrument dials. The seats, door panels and instrument binnacle hood are trimmed in an amber leather finish which complements the exterior colour. The interior quality is further enhanced with the use of metallic finishes and soft touch materials.