Peugeot Onyx Concept Revealed in Paris

The Peugeot Onyx Concept is currently on show at the 2012 Paris Motor Show. The hybrid Onyx supercar concept was developed by talented design enthusiasts and combines high performance with the efficient use of innovative materials.

Peugeot Onyx Concept – Special Features

??Hybrid Powertrain

The Peugeot Onyx Concept supercar is powered by a 3.7-litre V8 hybrid HDi FAP engine that transfers 447kW to the 20-inch rear wheels using a 6-speed sequential gearbox. Hybrid4 technology recovers kinetic energy during braking which is then stored in lithium-ion batteries. This energy becomes available on acceleration and provides an additional 60kW.

Efficient Bodywork??

The chassis structure consists of 12 parts weighing about 100kg and the bodywork of the Peugeot Onyx concept features striking contrast of the colours and materials used. The wings and doors are made of pure copper sheet which means its appearence will change over time. The rest of the body is in carbon fibre and painted in matt black.

The front-end incorporates a vertical grille and full LED headlamps. The Onyx shares the ‘double-bubble’ roof and aluminium arches of the Peugeot RCZ. The rear-end lights adopt the three claws Peugeot light signature and support small spoilers which direct upper and side air flows.

Unique Interior

The passenger compartment is made of felt and formed as a one-piece ‘pod’ with no stitching or joins. The result is a passenger ‘cocoon’ within the carbon-fibre structure. The felt is fully recyclable and provides excellent thermal insulation and de-humidifies the air which improves air quality.

The Peugeot Onyx concept features a driver centred interior with controls that are easy to find and the small steering wheel offers the sense of agility and features a felt rim, aluminium controls and paddle shifts. The dashboard is made of compressed used newspapers to form a new kind of wood known as ‘Newspaper Wood’.

Set in the dashboard is the instrument panel in a head up position. The engine speed and vehicle speed are indicated by metal parts. The engine operation is detailed on digital screens. The console, also made from ‘Newspaper Wood’, features a unique fuel indicator shaped from blown-glass. The console also features the dual-zone air conditioning controls with an aluminium bar with a milled detail finish.

The Peugeot Onyx concept introduces new techniques and innovative materials to create a stylish design that is met with performance.

VW Golf BlueMotion concept boasts low fuel consumption

The new Volkswagen Golf BlueMotion concept has made its global debut at the 2012 Paris Motor Show and is considered to be one of the worlds most fuel efficient cars. The third-generation Golf BlueMotion was introduced alongside the seventh-generation Volkswagen Golf at the Paris Motor Show.

VW Golf BlueMotion is a frugal ride

Low Fuel Consumption??

The VW Golf BlueMotion is a five-seater family car that achieves a fuel consumption figure of 3.2-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of only 85g/km. Compared to previous models, the new Golf BlueMotion exhibits a 15% improvement in fuel consumption with a further 14g/km improvement on CO2 emissions.

The VW Golf BlueMotion features a 50-litre fuel tank with an estimated range of 1 561km. Assuming that the average driver travels 15 000km per year and with a fuel consumption of 3.2-litres/km, the new Golf BlueMotion, according to Volkswagen, will only have to be filled about ten times a year.

Lightweight Design

The impressive fuel consumption of the Golf BlueMotion is attributed to its innovative lightweight design, engine-related modifications and other measures. These measures include the use of low rolling resistance tyres with higher air pressure, longer gear ratios and specific aerodynamic modifications.

The frontal area was reduced by 0.03m² and the aerodynamic drag by nearly 10%. Aerodynamic modifications include a reduced ride height of 15mm compared to previous models, a roof spoiler, lateral air guide elements on the rear window, a masked front grille, partially closed air inlet streams, optimised cooling system airflow, special underfloor panels, optimised brake cooling channels and a C-pillar spoiler. The VW Golf BlueMotion is one of the most aerodynamic cars in its class with a Cd value of 0.27.

Efficient Engine

The new VW Golf BlueMotion concept is fitted with a 1.6-litre TDI engine that develops 81kW and 250Nm of torque and is mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox. Stop/Start technology and a battery regeneration system contribute to enhanced efficiency. ??Efficiency is further encouraged with reduced internal friction, a thermal management system, exhaust gas recirculation, cylinder pressure sensor, two-stage oil pump, switchable electric water pump and a water-cooled intercooler. To reduce emissions even further, Volkswagen has also implemented an oxidation catalytic converter, a diesel particulate filter and a NOx storage catalytic converter.

The new Golf BlueMotion will be launched in Europe in the first quarter of 2013.

New Chevrolet Trax makes Paris Motor Show debut

The new Chevrolet Trax has made its global debut at the 2012 Paris Motor Show. The Trax is Chevrolet’s first entry into the fast-growing small SUV segment and bolsters Chevrolet’s SUV offering alongside the 7-seater Captiva. The new Chevrolet Trax is a modern and versatile small SUV that offers car-like handling as well as all-wheel drive and is offered with a choice of three fuel efficient engines.

New Chevrolet Trax is a small SUV with a big heart

The engine line-up includes a 1.4-litre turbo petrol engine that produces 103kW and 200Nm of torque. This variant is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission and comes with All-Wheel Drive (AWD).

The 1.6-litre petrol engine produces 96kW and 300Nm of torque and will be available with a 6-speed manual transmission. The 1.7-litre diesel engine develops 96kW and 300Nm of torque and is also mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. The 1.7-litre diesel and 1.4-litre turbo petrol variants are also offered with a 6-speed automatic transmission and all variants with manual transmission come with Start/Stop functionality.

Interior Features??

The new Chevrolet Trax provides a maximum of 1370 litres loading space and in addition to its 60/40 split rear seat, the front passenger seat can also be folded down for additional space. The Trax also offers a total of eight different seating combinations.

Upper trim levels are equipped with Chevrolet MyLink as standard. The MyLink infotainment system aggregates content from smartphones onto a 7-inch, high resolution, full colour touch-screen display. A dedicated navigation application will become available next year and will project the route from the smartphone onto the systems touch-screen display.

There is no current indication whether the new Chevrolet Trax will be available in South Africa.

New Volkswagen Golf 7 unveiled at Paris Motor Show

The new Volkswagen Golf 7 was officially revealed to the world at the 2012 Paris Motor Show this week. The new seventh-generation Golf offers more features, better safety and more performance than its predecessor and is considerably lighter.

??New Volkswagen Golf 7 improved from the ground up

Lighter Construction

Volkswagen has paid careful attention to weight savings in all aspects of the new Golf 7’s construction and has resulted in a weight reduction of up to 100kg. The weight reduction is largely attributed to the extensive use of high and ultra-high strength steels. The overall share of high-strength steels has gone from 66% in the previous model to 80% in the new Golf 7 and the use of ultra-high strength steel has gone from 6% to 28%.

Lower Fuel Consumption

Reduced weight has resulted in lower fuel consumption and the European-market 1.4-litre turbocharged TSI engine with cylinder de-activation exhibits a European Cycle combined fuel consumption figure of 5.7-litres/100km. The base model TDI Clean Diesel engine produces 78kW with a fuel consumption figure of 4.5-litres/100km.

Larger Dimensions

The new Volkswagen Golf 7 is 5.5cm longer than the outgoing model with an overall length of 4.25m. The wheel base has increased with 5.8cm to 2.63m. The front wheels have moved 4.3cm forward giving the new Golf 7 a sportier stance with an improved crash structure. The Golf 7 is also 2cm lower and 1.27cm wider than the outgoing model.

Improved Interior

The interior offers more space and the passenger compartment is 1.5cm longer with 1.5cm more knee room. Shoulder room has been improved by 3cm in both the front and back seats. A key feature of the new interior is the new infotainment system which incorporates a 5-inch touchscreen. A navigation system with a large 8-inch touchscreen is also available.

The new Volkswagen Golf 7 can be expected in South Africa in the first quarter of 2013.

Toyota iQ EV ready for production

Details of the production-ready Toyota IQ Electric Vehicle (EV) have been revealed. However, Toyota has made it clear that challenges in the form of limited range, long recharging times and limited re-charging infrastructure stand in the way of the iQ EV going into production. Even though Toyota is ready with the iQ EV, it will rather focus its commercial activities on providing a plug-in hybrid solution for the short to medium term to meet customer requirements.

Toyota iQ EV is an urban mover and shaker

Drawing on Toyota’s vast experience in Electric Vehicle (EV) research and development spanning 40 years, the iQ EV utilises Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive platform as its core technology and was designed as a compact, zero emissions urban city car that can seat up to four people.

The Toyota iQ EV’s fully electric powertrain comprises an air-cooled, 47kW electric motor, a 150 cell, a 12.0 kWh, 277.5 V battery pack, a 3 kW water-cooled battery charger, an inverter, an DC/DC converter and a motor speed reduction mechanism. The iQ EV produces a maximum torque figure of 163Nm and acceleration to 100km/h takes 14 seconds while reaching a top speed of 125km/h.

The Toyota iQ EV can be charged in about three hours using a standard 230V household outlet. A dedicated rapid charger compliant port is available as an option which allows the battery to be 80% re-charged in only 15 minutes. The NEDC-certified range for the iQ EV is 85km between charges.

Exterior Styling

The exterior design of the Toyota iQ EV takes inspiration from the FT-EV III concept shown at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show and makes use of two-tone, White-Pearl and Black to create a simple yet bold exterior appearance. The simple front-end sees the removal of the upper grille and is replaced with a charging port lid next to the Toyota badge. The lower bumper adopts trapezoidal, Under Priority character lines and an enlarged lower grille with a gloss black finish. Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) are incorporated into the grille. The headlamps incorporate gloss black and side extension battery cooling air inlets while the halogen headlamp housing are also finished in black.

The rear-end features a black tailgate and a new LED combination lamp design above a trapezoidal license plate mounting area. New aluminium wheels with two-tone wheel caps reinforce the vehicle’s unique all-electric credentials.

Interior Styling

The interior is finished in a bold, high contrast black and white colour scheme. The partial leather upholstery also features contrasting black and white finishes. The Toyota iQ EV features an exclusive driver’s instrument binnacle with Optitron metres styled to resemble electrical componentry such as a generator turbine and printed circuitry. It incorporates a central speedometer with EV System Indicator-linked changing colour illumination, a 3.5” TFT (Thin Film Transistor) multi-information display, a compact, high contrast LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) and a plug-in indicator.

The TFT screen displays comprehensive vehicle information while the default setting shows basic information such as driving range, charge state and output/regeneration status. The screen may also be switched through seven other screens namely average/instant power consumption, post charge power consumption, electrical equipment usage information, driving range, total average vehicle speed/total driving time, EV battery information and settings.

As an alternative to the Toyota iQ EV, customers can opt for the Prius Plug-in Hybrid that offers 25km pure electric driving and is backed up by an efficient hybrid system that delivers a range of over 1 200km without recharging or re-fuelling.

New Renault Clio 4 coming to South Africa

The new Renault Clio 4 has been officially unveiled to the public today at the Paris Motor Show. The new Clio 4 is the embodiment of Renault’s new design identity which is simple, sensuous and warm. The new Renault Clio 4 will be launched in South Africa in the first half of 2013, with the Clio 4 R.S. 200 EDC becoming available later in 2013.

New Renault Clio 4 offers style and improved efficiency

??Engine Capability

Two Renault TURBO Control Efficiency petrol engines will be on offer. The first option is the three cylinder 900cc TURBO Control Efficiency petrol engine with performance equivalent to a normally-aspirated 1.4-litre, four cylinder engine. This engine produces 66kW and 135Nm of torque at 2 500rpm. A Stop&Start system with energy recovery under braking allows for a fuel consumption figure of 4.3-litres/100km and a CO2 emissions figure of only 99g/km.

The New Renault TURBO Control Efficiency 85kW engine, coupled with EDC for the first time, is one of the most powerful and efficient engines it’s class. This engine is coupled with an EDC dual clutch transmission which offers seamless and smooth gear changes. This 1.2-litre engine with direct injection produces 190Nm of torque from 2 000rpm. An ‘eco’ mode can be activated with the push of a button to optimise performance and reduce fuel consumption by up to 10%.

Exterior Styling??

The new Renault Clio 4 is recognised by its prominent Renault logo set against a gloss black background, first seen on the DeZir concept car. This feature is accented with headlight units with chrome accents and LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs). The five-door Clio 4 features a sporty silhouette and the integrated rear door handles are concealed close to the rear quarter lights.

The Clio 4 measures 4.062 metres long, 1.732 metres wide, 1.448 metres tall and sits 45mm closer to the ground than the outgoing model. The large diameter wheels have been pushed 15mm outwards and finish flush with the wheel arches. The Clio 4 also features a steeply raked windscreen for added appeal.

??Interior Styling

The interior features a dashboard in the shape of an aircraft wing with a neat centre console and finely appointed details throughout the cabin.The Clio 4 sets new standards for onboard technology, mostly seen on larger cars. The Clio 4 features Renault R-Link as an option with a large 18cm touchscreen display that provides access to navigation, multimedia, phone, vehicle, services and applications and systems. All Clio 4 models equipped with R-Link benefit from 3D sound by Arkamys. The MEDIA NAV system is built into the console and provides basic functionality and is fitted as standard on all models. Sound is offered with the Renault Bass Reflex system.

??Safety Features

Each model is equipped with an Electronic Stability Program (ESP), ASR traction control, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and emergency brake assist as well as a more direct variable rate electric power steering. Other standard equipment includes cruise control with a speed limiter and ‘motorway-mode’ indicators which produce three flashes of the indicator when preparing to overtake.

The new Reanualt Clio 4 is keyless and the key is replaced with an electronic card that unlocks and locks the doors and the car can be started with the card safely stored. The Clio 4 holds a 5-star EuroNcap rating.

New Jaguar F-TYPE Unveiled at Paris Motor Show

The highly anticipated new Jaguar F-TYPE has been unveiled at the 2012 Paris Motor Show??.. The two-seat convertible sports car focused on performance, agility and driver involvement is offered in three models namely the F-TYPE, F-TYPE S and the F-TYPE V8 S. The front engine, rear-wheel drive F-TYPE is constructed with Jaguar’s fourth generation lightweight aluminium architecture.

New Jaguar F-TYPE delivers impressive performnace

Engine Capability

The new Jaguar F-Type is fitted with a 3.0-litre supercharged V6 that produces 335kW and 450Nm of torque. This model accelerates to 100km/h in 5.3 seconds and reaches a top speed of 260km/h. The F-TYPE S is also fitted with a 3.0-litre supercharged V6 but this version produces 375kW and 460Nm of torque. The F-TYPE S will accelerate to 100km/h in 4.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 275km/h.

The F-TYPE V8 S is powered by a 5.0-litre supercharged V8 that produces 488kW and 624Nm of torque. The F-TYPE V8 S accelerates to 100km/h in 4.9 seconds and reaches a top speed of 300km/h. All models are fitted with an 8-speed ‘Quickshift’ automatic transmission as well as the new Intelligent Stop/Start system which offers improved fuel economy under certain urban driving conditions.

Exterior Styling

The new Jaguar F-TYPE design is sinuous, muscular and elegant. Two ‘heartlines’, in two bold strokes, define both the profile and top-down view of the new Jaguar F-TYPE. The sleek rear-end is made possible with the inclusion of an active rear spoiler that raises and lowers depending on speed. Other aerodynamic aids include a front splitter and sculpted rear valance.

The xenon headlights run vertically rather than horizontally and the J-Blade Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) emphasise the ‘heartline’ running through the lamp. The mesh grille with hexagonal design leans slightly forward to suggest motion when the car is stationary. The rear-end features full LED rear lamps creating a new Jaguar sports car signature.

The new Jaguar F-TYPE also features hidden, automatically deploying door handles that are activated by either unlocking the car with the key fob or touching a touch-sensitive area of the handle. The convertible soft-top folds in 12 seconds at speeds of up to 48km/h.

??Interior Styling

The new Jaguar F-Type features an asymmetric cabin layout with a focus on the driver. A small diameter three-spoke steering wheel is available in a flat-bottomed design as part of an optional Performance Pack. The Tachometer features larger numerals than those on the speedometer for enhanced visibility while shifting. A TFT LCD screen between the dials provides further information for the driver.

Switches are finished in soft-feel matte black with white markings for legibility and are accented with satin chrome and aluminium. The sports seats feature power recline and height adjustment with manual control. Performance seats can be ordered with additional side bolstering for extra support. Two audio options from Meridian are available for the new Jaguar F-TYPE and offer either 10 or 12 speakers with power outputs of 380 watts and 770 watts. The top of the range Meridian Trifield System places both occupants at the centre of the perfectly focused surround sound field.

The new Jaguar F-Type can be expected in South Africa in the second half of 2013 and prices will be made available closer to its South African launch.

New Ford EcoSport for Paris Motor Show

The new Ford EcoSport SUV will be revealed at the Paris Motor Show tomorrow. The new Ford EcoSport combines agility, affordability and fuel efficiency of a B-segment car with the flexibility and spaciousness of an SUV.

New Ford EcoSport fitted with EcoBoost Engine

Based on Ford’s global B-segment platform, the EcoSport SUV will feature Ford’s acclaimed ‘Engine of the Year’, the 1.0-litre, three cylinder EcoBoost petrol engine. The EcoBoost engine produces 90kW and 170Nm of torque with a CO2 emissions figure of 140g/km.

“Ford EcoSport combines the value, quality and fuel efficiency of Fiesta, with the exciting look and feel of a modern SUV,” said Nick Collins, Ford’s global B car vehicle line director. “Its stylish design should prove a tempting addition for European customers to Ford’s B segment range, which already includes the innovative B-MAX compact multi-activity vehicle and the new Fiesta.”

Styling Features

The new Ford EcoSport SUV features a large front grille with slim, detailed headlights and cladding on the side sills and bumpers. The EcoSport is equipped with the Ford SYNC in-car connectivity system which uses voice-activation technology for the answering of phone calls and music selection from devices connected via Bluetooth or USB. The system also incorporates Emergency Assistance that connects the vehicle occupants to local emergency services operators after an accident.

The EcoSport SUV will also offer comprehensive driver assistance technologies including Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP) and Hill Launch Assist (HLA).

The new Ford EcoSport SUV can be expected in South Africa in the second half of 2013.

New BMW 1 Series in South Africa

The new BMW 1 Series is now available in South Africa. The sporty and elegant three-door 1 Series range includes the 116i, 125i and the range topping M Performance M135i. The 118i will be available from November 2012.

New BMW 1 Series boasts impressive performance

All engine variants feature BMW TwinPower Turbo technology comprising a Twin Scroll turbocharger, High Precision Injection, VALVETRONIC and Double VANOS. The BMW 116i is fitted with a four cylinder 1.6-litre petrol engine that develops 100kW at 4 400rpm with a maximum torque figure of 220Nm available from 1 350rpm. Fuel consumption is rated at between 5.5 and 5.7-litres/100km for the manual variant and 5.6 and 5.8-litres/100km for the automatic version. Acceleration to 100km/h is achieved in 8.5 seconds for the manual and 8.7 seconds for the automatic while the 116i’s top speed is 210km/h. ??The BMW 125i is powered by a 2.0-litre, four cylinder petrol engine that produces 160kW at 5 000rpm with a maximum torque figure of 310Nm available between 1 350 and 4 800rpm. Acceleration to 100km/h is achieved in 6.4 seconds for the manual while the automatic will take 6.2 seconds. Top speed for the 125i is 245km for the manual and 243km/h for the automatic. Fuel consumption is rated at 6.6-litres/100km for the manual and 6.4-litres/100km for the automatic.

The range topping M135i is powered by a six cylinder, 3.0-litre petrol engine that produces 235kW at 5 800rpm with a maximum torque figure of 450Nm available between 1 300 and 4 500rpm. Fuel consumption is rated at 8-litres/100km for the manual and 7.5-litres/100km for the automatic. Acceleration to 100km/h is achieved in 5.1 seconds for the manual and 4.9 seconds for the automatic with a top speed of 250km/h. ??All engine variants come with a 6-speed manual transmission as standard. An 8-speed automatic transmission or 8-speed automatic sports transmission is available as an option. BMW Efficient Dynamics technology includes a start/stop function and ?ECO PRO mode which can be activated in conjunction with the Driving Experience Control function which is offered as standard.

BMW 1 Series features refined exterior and interior styling

The BMW 1 Series is both sporty and elegant and features a large BMW kidney grille, contoured headlights and a three-part air intake. The front indicators are integrated into the inner light rings of the headlights while the side indicators are integrated into the side mirrors. The side profile is dominated by wide doors and frameless door windows and rear side windows which add to its dynamic appearance. ?The BMW three-door 1 Series is also offered in the BMW Sport Line and BMW Urban Line versions which include special options and equipment. The M Sport package is also available.

The three-door 1 Series features a spacious, sporty and functional interior and is equipped with the BMW iDrive control system. BMW Professional and a navigation system are available as an option. The BMW iDrive makes use of a freestanding flat-screen monitor. Depending on the model, a control display measuring 6.5-inches or 8.8-inches is integrated into the instrument panel. The 360-litre luggage compartment can be extended to 1200-litres by folding down the 60/40 split rear seat backrest. Move cloth upholstery is standard while Dakota leather is available as an option including sport seats.

Safety features?? packed into new BMW 1 Series

The new BMW 1 Series is equipped with Dynamic Stability Control, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Cornering Brake Control system (CBC) and Dynamic Brake Control system (DBC). Additional safety features include Brake Assistant, Fading Compensation, Dry Braking and Hill Start Assist. Standard airbags include front, side and head airbags. Three-point automatic seatbelts are fitted to all seats with belt force limiters and belt tensioners for the front seats. ISOFIX child seat mountings can be found in the rear.

New BMW 1 Series Price

BMW 1 Series 116i R265 000
BMW 1 Series 125i R336 000
BMW 1 Series M135i R445 500

Maserati GranCabrio MC for Paris Motor Show

The Maserati GranCabrio MC will be on show at the Paris Motor Show this week. The Maserati GranCabrio MC completes Maserati’s open-top range and combines high performance and sportiness with inspiration from the GranTurismo MC Stradale.

Striking looks for Maserati GranCabrio MC

The Maserati GranCabrio MC is 48mm longer than the GranCabrio and the GranCabrio Sport and features a front-end inspired directly from the GranTurismo MC Stradale. The rear-end is defined by a large spoiler for greater negative lift at high speeds. The third brake light is built into the spoiler. Various car customisation packages are available. The standard GranCabrio MC version is available in the same colour as the body and is also available with a carbon finish.

More details of the Maserati GranCabrio MC will be released at the Paris Motor Show at the end of the week.