New Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback in South Africa

General Motors South Africa (GMSA) has included a stylish hatchback offering to its well established and revised five-model sedan Cruze Range in South Africa for the 2013 model year. The new Chevrolet Cruze hatchback is offered with either a 1.6-litre or 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol engine. Both models are offered in Chevrolet’s comprehensive LS trim level.

New Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback worth a look

Engine Capability

The new Chevrolet Cruze hatch range features all-aluminium engines and both are twin-cam 16-valve units with variable valve timing for both inlet and exhaust systems.

The 1.6-litre engine offers 91kW at 6 000rpm with a maximum torque figure of 155Nm at 4 000rpm. The 1.6-litre Cruze will accelerate to 100km/h in 12.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 190km/h. Fuel consumption for this model is rated at 6.7-litres/100km with a corresponding CO2 emissions figure of 157g/km.

The 1.8-litre Cruze offers 104kW at 6 200rpm with a maximum torque figure of 176Nm available at 3 800rpm. Acceleration to 100km/h is achieved in 11.0 seconds with a top speed of 200km/h. Fuel consumption for the 1.8-litre Cruze hatchback is rated at 6.7-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 157g/km. Both variants are mated to a 5-speed manual transmission.

?Exterior Styling??

The new Chevrolet Cruze hatchback draws inspiration from the Cruze sedan and incorporates style and versatility. Like the sedan, the Cruze hatchback has an arching roofline that extends from a steeply raked windshield to the sloped rear-end. Short front and rear overhangs emphasise the Cruze’s solid appearance.

The front-end features Chevrolet’s signature dual-aperture grille which is accented by distinctive headlight clusters with ‘jewel-effect’ detailing. The flush mounted rear-light clusters are moulded into circular shapes that represent the traditional Chevrolet ‘twin-light’ styling motif.

Interior Styling

The new Chevrolet Cruze hatchback’s cabin is designed to seat five people with excellent leg, head and shoulder room. The Cruze hatch features greater rear headroom when compared to the sedan. The luggage compartment offers 413-litres of space which is extended to 883-litres when folding down the 60/40 split rear bench.

The ‘twin cockpit’ layout is designed to create a sense of unity between the driver and the car. Trim inserts on the dashboard are complemented by matching inserts in the seat trim and door panels. The Cruze hatchback features a neatly integrated centre console which incorporates the infotainment and air-conditioning controls as well as the displays. The analogue dials are backlit with white and ice blue LED’s for clarity.

The seats are constructed from wire mesh and are firm, offering deep bolstering both in the front and rear. The upholstery employs French seam stitching that offers durability and the seat adjustments offer the longest setting in the compact C segment. Manual air-conditioning is standard while dual-zone automatic climate control is available as an option.

A radio/CD with RDS is fitted as standard and the infotainment system is MP3 compatible with an auxiliary input for an iPod or MP3 player. An onboard computer is also included.

Safety Features

Like the sedan, the Cruze hatchback features a stiff body structure that provides safety for occupants in the event of a crash. More than this, the body structure reduces Noise and Vibration Harshness (NVH). Three point seat belts are provided for all five passengers with ISOFIX mountings offered on the outer two rear seats. Airbag protection includes front and seat side airbags and side curtain airbags. A collapsible pedal assembly further protects the driver’s feet in the event of a severe impact.

Active safety features include Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BAS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP) and Traction Control.

New Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback – Price

Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback 1.6 LS MT R212 400
Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback 1.8 LS MT R224 800

The new Chevrolet Cruze hatch is covered by a 5 year/120 000 km warranty with Roadside Assistance for the full warranty period. Anti-corrosion warranty protection is for 5 years/unlimited kilometres. Service intervals are 12 months/15 000 kilometres. A 3 year/60 000 km Service Plan is included in the price.

2013 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible revealed

The 2013 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible  has been revealed ahead of its official unveiling at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show. The third-generation VW Beetle Convertible takes inspiration from it predecessors, retaining its timeless appeal and incorporates a sportier and more dynamic design approach.

2013 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible is a modern classic

Engine options (US) for the Beetle Convertible include the familiar entry-level 2.5-litre, five-cylinder engine that produces 127kW and 240Nm of torque. This engine is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. The fuel efficient 2.0-litre TDI Clean Diesel four-cylinder engine produces 104kW and 320Nm of torque and returns an estimated fuel consumption figure of 5.7-litres/100km. This engine is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission while the 6-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission is available as an option.

The 2.0-litre turbocharged TSI four cylinder engine offers 149kW and 281Nm of torque and is mated to either a 6-speed manual transmission or the DSG automatic transmission.

Exterior and Interior Styling

The 2013 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible features a flatter roofline and upright windshield which is more closely aligned with the first generation of Beetle convertibles. Volkswagen opted for the traditional soft-top instead of a folding hard-top which is more common on the convertibles of today. Although the soft-top is compact when furled, it is wide and long when employed and takes about 10 seconds to open or close with the touch of a button.

The interior retains popular design cues of the latest beetle such as the body-colour dashboard and stylish gauges and trim. The Beetle Convertible features a spacious cabin big enough to seat four passengers and has ample space for luggage. The fold-down, split rear bench increases versatility even further.

Safety features

For safety features the Beetle Convertible features an Automatic Rollover Support System. Two roll-over bars are concealed behind the back of the rear bench seat and are activated by the computer that deploys the airbags in the event of a crash. The driver and passenger benefit from combined head-thorax airbags which are fitted as standard.

The new 2013 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible will be launched in the US towards the end of 2012. There is no indication that the Beetle Convertible will be available in South Africa.

2013 Toyota Verso shown at Paris Motor Show

The new 2013 Toyota Verso is currently on display at the Paris Motor Show and features a host of upgrades including interior and exterior styling changes. The new Verso builds on the versatility, practicality and roominess of the outgoing model but incorporates more style, comfort and handling capability.

2013 Toyota Verso improves on performance and style

??Engine Capability

The 2.0-litre D-4D diesel option has been optimised to provide better torque delivery at low revs with less engine noise. CO2 emissions have also been reduced by 10g/km to under 130g/km. The 2.2-litre D-CAT diesel engine is available with a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. The manual variant produces 131kW with 159g/km while the automatic version produces 110kW with a CO2 emissions figure of 178g/km.

Both the 1.6-litre and 1.8-litre variants are available with a 6-speed manual transmission while the 1.8-litre is available with a revised Multidrive CVT transmission. The diesel powered variants’ towing capacities have been increased from 200kg to 1 500kg.

Exterior Styling

The new 2013 Toyota Verso incorporates ‘dual zone’ styling with a full length character line which divides the bonnet and cabin from the chassis and loadspace. The most prominent changes can be seen on the front-end of the car. Revised details include the large trapezoidal grille set within a revised bumper as well as a smaller upper grille that fills the space between the new narrow headlights which incorporate LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs). The large Toyota badge is set lower on the bonnet and a chrome-finish horizontal bar extends to the headlights to emphasise the car’s width.

The large lower grille is finished in gloss black with two chrome strips flanked by fog lights with chrome surrounds. A full-width lip spoiler further emphasises the car’s width. The Verso also features smaller folding door mirrors with integrated indicators and rides on either 16-inch or 17-inch alloy wheels. The rear-end features a new bumper with a low level diffuser.

??Interior Styling

The Verso’s interior includes new trim details and features a new satin black paint finish. Soft-touch material has been used for the upper glovebox and Nappa leather is used on the steering wheel, door trims and armrests of specific models. Satin chrome trim highlights are used on the instrument surrounds, instrument binnacle hood, air vents, instrument panel, gear shift and door grips.

The 2013 Toyota Verso also benefits from new seat fabrics, colours and design and the front seats have improved side bolster support with a harder-wearing finish. On higher grade version the bolsters are leather-covered with double stitching to match the arm rest and door trims. The Verso features Toyota’s Easy Flat-7 seating system with 32 different seating combinations. Luggage volume is 155-litres with the seats in position and can be increased to 440-litres. Numerous storage compartments are placed throughout the cabin and the new Verso is also available with a full length panoramic roof which increases cabin light and sense of space.

The 2013 Toyota Verso will be built exclusively at Toyota Manufacturing Turkey. It is still unclear whether the new 2013 Toyota Verso will be available in South Africa.

South African Car Sales for September 2012

NAAMSA has released car sales figures for the month of September 2012. New car sales reflected a significant statistical slow down in underlying growth momentum which could be attributed to the high level of industrial action across numerous sectors in the economy which has affected business and consumer confidence in South Africa.

South African Car Sales Summary for September 2012

  • Total September sales – 55 097 units
  • September sales up by 740 units or 1.4%
  • Export Sales up by 703 units or 2.7% to 36 638 units
  • September new car sales up by 1 667 units or 4.4%
  • Rental industry accounted for 18.6% of new car sales

Despite a lower domestic economic growth environment, a number of factors continue to support domestic sales and these include historically low interest rates, vehicle affordability and higher demand for credit by households and businesses. A highly competitive trading environment, attractive incentives and new model introductions will continue to support demand.



Top Five best Selling new passenger Cars in South Africa for September 2012



  1. Volkswagen Polo Vivo – 2587 units
  2. Volkswagen Polo – 2233 units
  3. Toyota Etios – 1736 units
  4. Toyota Corolla – 1383
  5. BMW 3 Series – 1226

Top Five New Vehicles Searched on Cars.co.za

  1. BMW 1 Series 116i 5-door
  2. Volkswagen Polo Vivo 5-door 1.4
  3. Volkswagen Polo 1.2 TDI BlueMotion
  4. Volkswagen Polo Vivo 3-door 1.4
  5. BMW 1 Series 125i 3-door

Top Five Used Vehicles Searched on Cars.co.za

  1. Volkswagen Polo
  2. BMW 3-Series
  3. Volkswagen Golf
  4. Toyota Corolla
  5. Toyota Hilux

Peugeot 2008 Concept shown at Paris Motor Show

The Peugeot 2008 Concept is currently on display at the 2012 Paris Motor Show and is the result of a collaboration of engineers and stylists from Europe, China and Latin America. The Peugeot 2008 Concept is a small vehicle that combines agility, compactness, versatility and style and was designed “for young-minded city dwellers who love the city, while also loving to escape from it”.

Peugeot 2008 Concept – Styling Features

The Peugeot 2008 Concept exterior colour is in fluorescent yellow with a Velvet matt finish. Dark Chrome details on the body emphasise the 2008’s modern and elegant appearance.

The front-end features a ‘floating grille’ with a design cut into the metal and is combined with a dual aspect treatment that highlights the Peugeot emblem. The headlights are unique and aligned with the front-end and are designed to portray the pupil of a cat. The Peugeot 2008 Concept features sophisticated sculpted wings and sides. The large wheel arches and notable ground clearance represent agility, versatility and lightweight design.

Engine Capability

The Peugeot 2008 Concept features a 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder turbo engine with direct injection. This engine forms part of Peugeot’s downsizing strategy and enhances fuel consumption and reduces CO2 emissions. This engine produces a power output of 82kW.

The Peugeot 2008 Concept is set to go into production in 2013.

Toyota 86 TRD at Paris Motor Show

Toyota is showcasing the Toyota Racing Development (TRD) performance line accessories at the 2012 Paris Motor Show, as seen on the Toyota 86 TRD. The TRD accessories have been specifically designed for the Toyota 86 and all parts will be available individually throughout Europe for the first time.

??Toyota 86 TRD showcases enhancements

The Toyota 86 TRD performance line includes aerodynamic enhancing parts such as a front spoiler, side skirts, rear trunk spoiler, rear under spoiler and stainless steel rear diffusers. Customers will have the choice of two TRD 18-inch aluminium wheels with a 10-spoke TF4 design.

The chassis is improved with a Member Brace Set which minimises bodyshell movement. Toyota also introduces the industry first TRD Door Stabiliser which uses a spacer to automatically fill the gap in the door striker area. The TRD Door Stabiliser improves torsional rigidity of the bodyshell, steering response and suspension efficiency.

Braking efficiency is enhanced through the front and rear Monoblock Brake Kit. Direct Brake Lines are available to improve the performance of the standard Toyota 86 braking system. The Toyota 86 TRD also features a High Response Muffler with four exhausts giving the 86 a special TRD racing note. The 86’s interior can also be equipped with a centre console-mounted push button start switch and gear knob covered in real leather.

The TRD Performance line accessories are designed to enhance the performance, aerodynamics and aesthetic appeal of the standard Toyota 86.

2013 Ford Fiesta at Paris Motor Show?

The new and improved 2013 Ford Fiesta is on display at the 2012 Paris Motor Show and features sharper design features and improved technology, including Ford’s ‘Engine of the Year’, the 1.0-litre Ecoboost engine, which is expected to deliver best in class fuel economy.

2013 Ford Fiesta comes with host of improvements

??Improved Styling and Technology

The new 2013 Ford Fiesta features a trapezoidal front grille that’s bracketed by laser-cut headlamps with LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) as well as a ‘power-dome’ bonnet design. The interior has been ergonomically designed to offer maximum enjoyment for the driver.

In terms of technology, the 2013 Ford Fiesta features the Ford SYNC in-car connectivity system that will allow drivers to voice-activate phone calls and music selection from devices connected via Bluetooth or USB. The system also includes Emergency Assist which connects the vehicle to relevant emergency services in the event of an accident.

The European Fiesta will also feature Active City Stop which is designed to prevent low speed collisions. Ford MyKey, a segment-first, encourages safer driving and allows owners to configure maximum speed and audio volume limits. The system also mutes the audio until seat belts are fastened and ensures that driver aids, safety systems and alerts cannot be deactivated when used.

The new 2013 Ford Fiesta will become available in South Africa in 2013.

Peugeot RCZ R Concept at Paris Motor Show

The Peugeot RCZ R Concept made its debut at the 2012 Paris Motor Show and like the Onyx Concept, the RCZ R Concept incorporates copper into its design and is finished in matt black. The Peugeot RCZ R Concept is a preview of a dynamic and sporty version of the RCZ R that will be introduced into the range at the end of 2013.

Peugeot RCZ R Concept is big on power

The Peugeot RCZ R Concept was conceived by Peugeot Sport and PSA Group Development with the aim to adapt technology from motor sport and incorporate it into a production ready vehicle.

The Peugeot RCZ R Concept will be fitted with a new 1.6-litre THP 260 engine that will produce 194kW, making it the most powerful production Peugeot model in history. To complement the engine, the Peugeot RCZ R Concept will also receive special suspension and wheels combined with a Torsen limited slip differential that will enhance driving dynamics.

Audi Crosslane Coupe Concept shown at Paris Motor Show

Audi’s Crosslane Coupe hybrid concept has made its debut at the 2012 Paris Motor Show and provides insight into the design language of future Audi Q models. The Audi Crosslane Coupe concept is designed to appeal to young customers with its removable roof and customisable services under the Audi connect concept.

Audi Crosslane Coupe Concept features special qualities

??Multimaterial Space Frame

The Audi Crosslane Coupe concept, with its Multimaterial Space Frame breaks new ground in terms of weight, cost and energy usage over its lifecycle and forms part of Audi’s lightweight construction principle called Audi Ultra. The Multimaterial Space Frame comprises three materials including aluminium, carbon fibre-reinforced polymer (CFRP) and glass fibre-reinforced polymer (GFRP). The Audi Crosslane Coupé concept weighs 1 390kg.

Aluminium forms the rigid structure around the occupant cell and aluminium beams beneath the front lid join the single-frame grille and fulfil a supporting function. The front and rear crash structures are made of CFRP and surface GFRP components with partial CFRP reinforcements complete the body concept.

Hybrid Powertrain

The plug-in hybrid drive, also known as a dual mode hybrid, comprises a 1.5-litre, three cylinder TFSI engine, two electric motors and a single-stage transmission which together produce a total of 130kW. The TFSI engine produces 96kW and 200Nm of torque. The first electric motor produces 50kW and acts as a starter and alternator. The second electric motor provides electrical traction and develops 85kW and 250Nm of torque.

The Audi Crosslane coupe concept accelerates to 100km/h in 8.6 seconds or 9.8 seconds in pure electric mode. The Crosslane’s top speed is 182km/h. Fuel consumption is estimated at 1.1-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 26g/km. The lithium-ion battery produces 17.4kWh with a range of about 85km in electric mode.

Exterior Styling Features

The Audi Crosslane Coupe concept is 4.21 metres long, 1.88 metres wide and 1.51 metres high with a wheel base of 2.56 metres. The front-end features a single-frame grille divided into segments by struts. The trapezoidal headlights use Audi Matrix LED headlight technology and the bumper incorporates large smooth air intakes.

The boot lid seam divides the rear headlights into two sections and the bumper’s lower section incorporates an aluminium diffuser. The roof, made of two CFRP shells, weighs less than 10kg and can be detached and fitted over the load area.

Interior Styling

The Crosslane Coupé features electrically adjustable sport seats with integrated head restraints made of CFRP. The centre console integrates the gear selector which extends electrically when the car is started and is used to control the hybrid drive. The steering wheel spokes have control surfaces for the thumbs for easy functionality.

A large touchpad on the centre console offers additional functionality. ??The dashboard is clearly focused towards the driver and the air conditioning controls incorporate miniature displays. The Audi Crosslane coupe concept features Audi Connect which provides internet access and incorporates ‘Escape Manager’ which allows passengers to review and comment on routes.

Semi-aniline leather is most widely used in the interior while velvet leather in black provides an appealing contrast. CFRP is extensively used in the interior while the aluminium elements are machine polished and the air nozzles use a black anodised light alloy. The vehicle floor is made from GFRP incorporating thick cords that are woven with rubber threads to form a hard-wearing carpet.

New Porsche 911 Carrera 4 at Paris Motor Show

The new Porsche 911 Carrera 4 has made its international debut at the 2012 Paris Motor Show and offers excellent performance and efficiency with the benefit of the latest version of the active all-wheel drive system PTM (Porsche Traction Management). The new Porsche 911 Carrera 4 is being launched in four versions as the 911 Carrera 4 and the 911 Carrera 4 S with each available as a Coupé and Cabriolet.

New Porsche 911 Carrera 4 – Specifications and Features

Engine Capability

The new Porsche 911 Carrera 4 is fitted with a 3.4-litre engine that produces 257kW. The Coupé version sprints to 100k/h in less than 4.5 seconds while the Cabriolet will take 4.7 seconds with top speeds of 285km/h and 282km/h respectively, depending on equipment features. All models are fitted with a 7-speed manual gearbox as standard and the Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) is available as an option. Fuel consumption with PDK is 8.6-litres/100km for the Coupé and 8.7-litres/100km for the Cabriolet.

The 911 Carrera 4 S is powered by a 3.8-litre rear-mounted boxer that produces 294kW. The Coupé version accelerates to 100km/h in 4.1 seconds and 4.3 seconds for the Cabriolet with a top speed of 299km/h and 296km/h respectively. Fuel consumption with PDK is 9.1-litres/100km for the Coupé and 9.2-litres/100km for the Cabriolet. All models consume up to 16% less fuel than previous models.

Styling Features

The new Porsche 911 Carrera 4 features the same traits as the rear-wheel drive versions and their lightweight body design, suspension, engines and gearboxes are identical, barring modifications to the all-wheel drive. The new Porsche 911 Carrera 4 also weighs up to 65kg less than before. Compared to the two-wheel drive 911 Carrera models, the rear wheel housings have been extended outward by 22mm with the rear tyres being 10mm wider. The rear red light band has also taken on a new form.

Special Features

The new Porsche 911 Carrera 4 features a new instrument cluster that relays PTM all wheel-drive related information to the driver. Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) is available across the range. When combined with PDK, the ACC system adds the safety function Porsche Active Safe (PAS) which assists in the prevention of front-end collisions. A new sliding glass sunroof is available as an option for the 911 Carrera Coupé.

The new Porsche 911 Carerra 4 can be expected in South Africa in 2013.