Kia Provo Concept in Geneva

The Kia Provo Concept will be showcased at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show which starts tomorrow and hints at a potential future B-segment vehicle from the Korean automaker. According to Kia, the Provo Concept was designed for fun and is meant to be cheeky and cheerful in its compactness.

Gregory Guillaume, Chief Designer at Kia’s European styling base in Frankfurt describes the Provo Concept as an emotional and muscular car aimed at delivering pure fun and performance for todays city-based enthusiast driver who longs for the curves of the open road. This is entirely a car for European tastes and conditions. Designed purely at our Frankfurt studios, the Provo was conceived as a confident and single-minded statement of dynamism and energy to deliver a new sense of fun into the B-segment. The potent shaping displays a balanced and refined outline within a compact overall shape and the tiny front and rear overhangs enhance the balance within its proportions.

Kia Provo Concept Specifications and Features

Engine Capability

The Kia Provo Concept is fitted with a Smart 4WD Hybrid powertrain which includes a 1.6-litre Turbo GD1 engine that develops 150kW along with an electric motor that provides an additional 33kW to the rear wheels and allows for electric-only driving at lower speeds. A 7-speed DCT transmission, a first for Kia, is responsible for putting power to the road.

Exterior Styling Features

The Kia Provo Concept stands 3.88m long, 1.77m wide and 1.35m tall with a steep front nose and carbon fibre lower valance that forms the face of the vehicle. Behind a single piece of glass is Kia’s latest take on a ‘tiger nose’ grille treatment which links directly into the Schreyer-inspired headlamps that are made up of more that 850 LED lights. The LED’s are programmable and can be used as Daytime Running Lights (DRLs), full beam lights or used in race-style configurations. A wrap-around front screen hides the A-pillars and frameless doors providing a visor-style appearance with the ‘clamshell-like’ roof floating above.

Different exterior colours are used to draw attention to particular features of the vehicle. ‘Blood Orange’ accents are used to contrast with the grey-green ‘Storm Metal’ body colour while carbon fibre surfaces and high-gloss or anodised aluminium further add to the Provo’s visual appeal. The Kia Provo Concept is fitted with 19-inch milled-alloy wheels finished in anodised ‘Blood Orange’.

Interior Styling Features

The interior is predominantly finished in black and the dashboard is made from a single piece of carbon fibre. The doors feature polished aluminium panels and are made of three individual panels including an outer panel, a carbon fibre inner panel and a neoprene-covered inner section in ‘Storm Metal’ body colour.

The Kia Provo concept also features aluminium inner door handles, footrests and pedals. The dashboard features large analogue dials on a digital display with a smaller central display for other minor gauges. The engine stop-start button, the transmission drive selector and Multi-Media Interface control are found on two control hubs in the centre tunnel.

The seats are made from a single wave-like panel and covered in quilted leather. The cockpit design is completed with small red LED lights set in the doors, air vents and roof, providing ‘low-glow’ ambient illumination.

Guillaume commented, The whole interior concept was designed around not having a big centre console, but instead using latest technology to provide excellent functionality in a clean, clear and attractive manner.

There are no immediate plans to put the Kia Provo Concept into production.

Volkswagen eCo Motion concept joins Geneva lineup

The Volkswagen eCo Motion concept transporter vehicle will be officially introduced to the world alongside other Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles at the Geneva Motor Show tomorrow.

Volkswagen eCo Motion concept goes electric

The Volkswagen eCo Motion concept is powered by an electric driving system. The eCo Motion stands 4.55m long, 1.90m wide and 1.96m tall and offers a maximum cargo capacity of 4.6 cubic metres with a payload of 800kg. This is made possible by clear partitioning of the vehicle body into a lower driving-relevant zone which includes a underfloor drive unit, battery and gearbox while the upper superstructure is dedicated to delivery tasks.

Electric mobility, especially in light commercial vehicles could play a crucial role in meeting the growing transport needs of the world’s megacities, explains Dr. Eckhard Scholz, Speaker of the Brand Board of Management.

Freight trains and conventional or hybrid-powered high capacity lorries would deliver goods up to the city limits. Then, at transfer stations, smaller electric delivery vans would take over. Their predictable travel routes and fixed depots would simplify battery charging and equipment maintenance he added.

The eCo Motion’s design offers high maneuverability with a small vehicle footprint, quality visibility and seating ergonomics as well as a low load floor for easier loading.

Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2 Elite Review

Now in its third generation, the flagship Hyundai Santa Fe recreational vehicle has landed on South African shores and I spent a few days getting to grips with the vehicle.

Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2 Elite review by David Taylor

Hyundais striking looks

Hyundai has come a long way both in terms of product quality and design. Gone are the days of generic-looking bland passenger cars. Now, the Koreans are happily producing vehicles that not only match the established European competition, but soundly thump them in some departments too. Take this new Hyundai Santa Fe. Yes, it looks a little similar to the smaller IX35 yet still retains a staunch, masculine appearance. Dominated by a big shiny grille and eye-catching headlamps, the Santa Fe is one of the more attractive SUVs around.

Powerful and smooth engine

To lug the big Hyundai Santa Fe around, the 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine is up to the job. With 145kW and 436Nm driving to all four wheels through a six-speed automatic gearbox, the Santa Fe effortlessly powers its way up to national highway speeds. The engine does sound a little like a tractor while idling but under acceleration, it settles into a silky smooth rhythm. Despite the vehicles size, the Santa Fe is surprisingly light on fuel. On a recent road trip to Mossel Bay from Cape Town, the vehicle was happily returning figures of under 9L/100km.

Luxurious and full-equipped

Speaking of road trips, I can only heap praise onto the way this thing drives. Not only is it comfortable, the ride is smooth and it feels as if youre in something luxurious. As far as equipment and specification goes, the Hyundai Santa Fe is packed to the hilt. Im going to save you time by listing the things that arent present, as the full comprehensive list is ridiculously long. The only things that arent fitted are satellite navigation and Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity.

Things worth mentioning is the integrated rear camera that has a screen in the mirror, auto headlights, auto handbrake, auto wipers, a third row of seats which folds down neatly. Theres even a full panoramic roof, steering modes (Sport, Comfort and Normal) as well as heated seats. I generally mark a vehicle down if it doesnt have a decent USB integration and I was pleasantly surprised at how quick and easy my iPod was able to communicate with the car. Better yet, the USB socket was located in a convenient position.

Useful offroad ability

Despite the fact that this vehicle is aimed at the urban family, the vehicle does come with a few offroad party tricks. It has a ground clearance of 185mm and all-wheel drive, two things which I believe will cover most offroad applications. There is also hill descent control which makes doing steep descents a breeze and should the vehicle become stuck in something like thick beach sand, the lockable diff will come into play.

Please note that this isnt a vehicle to try conquering Africa in. Not only does it lack a low-range gearbox (vital for serious offroading) but the Hyundai Santa Fe needs the 50ppm low sulphur diesel something thats not readily available in the back and beyond. To be honest, these drawbacks dont matter as most Santa Fe models will be owned and driven in and around the major cities.

Comprehensive warranty

I remember the days when Korean cars were mediocre and I can recall saying to people, give both Kia and Hyundai some time. Soon youll see them making cars that rival the German trio. The new Hyundai Santa Fe is proof of that. Its a simply brilliant vehicle that offers astonishing levels of comfort and practicality. It can do a bit of offroading too and there is literally no reason why the South African buying public can scoff at the thought of owning a Korean vehicle.

Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2 Elite – Price

The Hyundai Santa Fe is extremely well-appointed and when you consider what youre getting, just under R500,000 doesnt sound like silly money. Throw in the comprehensive Hyundai warranty of a five year/90 000km service contract and youre looking at serious contender for this segment.

Why you should: Refined, drives well, engine/gearbox combo a treat, practical, impressive specification.
Why you shouldnt: Dont be fooled into thinking this is a serious off-roader. Its not.
It would be better if: the radio had RDS, a Bluetooth phone system was fitted.
View the Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2 Elite: New / Used
Competitors worth checking out: Toyota Fortuner, Chevrolet Trailblazer, BMW X3, Audi Q5

Most popular new cars in South Africa for February 2013

The South African automotive industry experienced a relatively solid month in terms of new car sales with a total of 51 005 units sold during the month. Domestic sales however dropped by 7.2% compared to January sales of 54 948 units. Here is a look at South Africa’s Top 5 best-selling new cars for February 2013.

1. Toyota Hilux 3 500 units

The hard-working Toyota Hilux has come out on top as South Africa’s most popular new car for the month. The Hilux was ranked in third place in January behind the the VW Polo and VW Polo Vivo and is also considered to be South Africa’s best selling bakkie. The Toyota Hilux is available in three body styles namely Single Cab, Xtra Cab and Double Cab. A wide variety of engine options are available and prices range from R186 700 to R475 900, depending on the model.

2. Volkswagen Polo Vivo 2 742 units

The Polo Vivo is the best-selling vehicle in the passenger car segment and has sold consistently well for many consecutive months. The Polo Vivo was the South Africa’s most popular new car in 2012 and if the numbers are anything to go by, the Polo Vivo will continue to sell well in 2013. For now, the Polo Vivo remains a popular entry-level choice for new car buyers and is offered either as a hatchback or sedan with a variety of engine options ranging from between 55kW and 77kW. Depending on the model, prices range from R110 500 for the 1.4-litre 2-door hatchback and R157 700 for the 1.6 Trendline sedan.

3. Toyota Etios 2 204 units

Toyota’ Etios has performed well in February 2013 and has managed to squeeze into third place ahead of the VW Polo. The Etios was launched in South Africa in May 2012 and like the Polo Vivo, it’s a popular choice amongst budget conscious, entry-level car buyers who are looking for value-for-money. The Etios is available as a hatchback or sedan with prices starting at R115 800 for the 1.5 Xi hatchback and R126 700 for the 1.5 Xs sedan.

4. Volkswagen Polo 2 192

The VW Polo had another good sales month in February and is still considered to be one of South Africa’s best selling passenger cars despite it being in placed fourth in terms of sales. Like the Polo Vivo, The Polo is also offered as either a hatchback or sedan with prices starting from R160 100 for the 1.4-litre Trendline while the range-topping Polo GTI is priced at R280 400.

5. Ford Ranger 1 784 units

Ford’s Ranger workhorse had an excellent sales month in February 2013 and is considered to be South Africa’s fifth most popular new car in South Africa. The Ford Ranger is available in four different body styles namely the Single Cab, Super Cab, Double Cab and the Wildtrak. Pricing starts at R176 700 for the Single Cab while the Single and Double Cab models are priced at R244 700 and R277 700 respectively. The range-topping Wildtrak model is priced at R428 800.

Audi A3 Sportback g-tron headed for Geneva

The Audi A3 Sportback g-tron will make an appearance at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. The Audi A3 Sportback g-tron uses CO2-neutral Audi e-gas, which will be produced at a power-to-gas plant in Werlte, Germany.

Audi A3 Sportback g-tron shows new tech

Engine Capability

The Audi A3 Sportback g-tron will showcase the CNG drive technology and is equipped with a 1.4 TFSI engine producing 81kW and 200Nm of torque. The model sprints from 0-100km/h in 11 seconds reaching a top speed of 190km/h.

The two fuel tanks stored under the boot floor are made from carbon fibre-reinforced polymer and when full, each tank weighs 27kg and can carry up to 7kg of CNG (Audi e-gas). Fuel consumption is rated at 3.5kg/100km with a total range of 1300km. CO2 emissions are rated at only 30g/km. The Audi A3 Sportback g-tron is fully bivalent, which means its performance figures are identical when operating in CNG or petrol mode.

Features

The inside of the five-door Audi A3 Sportback g-tron features two displays in the instrument cluster that provide the driver with up-to-date information on the fuel level in each of the fuel tanks. Depending on the particular operating mode selected, the driver information system will also display the current fuel consumption.

Two filler necks are placed under a common fuel flap and after refuelling, or when it is cold, the engine is started using petrol and then it is switched over to CNG mode as quickly as possible.

The CO2-neutral e-gas made at the plant in Werlte, Germany, is expected to power 1 500 new Audi A3 Sportback g-tron vehicles for over 15 000km’s every year.

New car launches in South Africa for February 2013

The month of February 2013 saw a host of new and exciting models introduced in South Africa. Here is a breakdown of new car launches that took place during the month.

Volkswagen Golf 7 from R233 800

The new Golf 7 has finally arrived in South Africa and is available with a choice of three petrol engines and two diesel engines. Power output ranges from 77kW to 110kW across the range with fuel consumption averaging between 4.5-litres/100km and 5.3-litres/100km.

Subaru Forester SUV from R329 000

The new Subaru Forester is available with a choice of five models and equipped with Subaru’s Boxer engines. The Subaru Forester is considered to be the safest and most efficient Forester to date and has achieved a five-star safety rating from the Australian ANCAP and Euro NCAP.

Opel Astra OPC from R435 000

The OPC is the most powerful Astra ever produced and is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged direct injection engine that produces 206kW and 400Nm of torque. Fuel consumption is rated at 8.1-litres/100km.

Volkswagen Polo Vivo Maxx from R160 300

The Polo Vivo range has been expanded to include the Maxx which is available in hatchback form only. The Maxx features a raised suspension, 17-inch ‘Budapest’ alloy wheels and is powered by a 1.6-litre engine that produces 77kW and 155Nm of torque. The Maxx makes use of a 5-speed manual transmission.

Audi A7 3.0 TDI from R649 500

Audi has introduced a new 130kW entry-level 3.0 TDI to its A7 range. Fuel consumption for this new model is rated at 5.3-litres/100km. Standard features include xenon headlights, electric tailgate, MMI Radio Plus, Audi Music Interface, Milano leather trim, cruise control and Park Distance Control

Citroen DS3 VTi 82 Design from R199 900

The Citroen DS3 VTi 82 Design is the new entry-level model in the DS3 range and is powered by a new 1.2-litre PureTech engine that develops 60kW and 118Nm of torque.

Fiat Qubo from R177 990

The Fiat Qubo is a new Multi Purpose Vehicle (MPV) that offers high levels of functionality and practicality. The Qubo is powered by either a 55kW/190Nm 1.3-litre Multijet turbo-diesel engine or a 54kW/118Nm 1.4-litre petrol engine. Both engines are mated to a five-speed manual transmission.

Geely 1.5 MK Sedan from R99 990

The Geely 1.5 MK sedan is a comprehensive budget offering from Geely and comes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), dual airbags, air-conditioning, electric windows, CD/Radio, Rear Park Assist and alloy rims as standard.

Nissan Pathfinder SE from R450 900

Nissan has added the entry-level Pathfinder SE to its range. The Pathfinder SE is powered by a 2.5-litre dCi diesel engine that produces 140kW and 450Nm of torque and is mated to a choice of either a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission.

New Ford Fiesta from R164 400

The new Ford Fiesta has arrived and is available with Ford’s acclaimed 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine that delivers 92kW and 170Nm of torque. A 1.4-litre engine and a 1.6-litre engine are also available. The new Fiesta also features revised exterior and interior styling and is equipped with the SYNC in-car connectivity system and the MyKey system.

New Nissan GT-R from R1 398 200

The updated Nissan GT-R is now available in South Africa. The GT-R is powered by a 3.8-litre V8 that produces 397kW and 628Nm of torque. The GT-R is now also available as a track-ready ‘Track Pack’ model which includes a variety of racing features including carbon fibre recaro bucket seats and 20-inch RAYS wheels finished in black chrome quartz.

New Chevrolet Captiva SUV to debut in Geneva

The redesigned new Chevrolet Captiva SUV will be launched at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. The model will boast several changes to both the exterior and interior.

Fresh styling for new Chevrolet Captiva

Exterior Features

The front of the new Chevrolet Captiva features new LED tail lamps, angular chrome exhaust tips and a re-modeled bumper. Other features include a lower front bumper, a new grille mesh and restyled fog-lamps. Completing the look are new 18-inch alloy wheels, which further enhance the Captivas road presence.

Interior Styling Features

The seven-seat Captivas interior features a range of fresh seat colours, new fabrics including leather and restyled trims in the instrument panel. A dual-zone climate control system, an ambient lighting package and heated rear seats will be available on select specifications.

Additionally, the Captiva will come standard with a keyless entry and start feature.

The Chevrolet Trax

Chevrolet will launch the Trax edition as a contender in the fast growing small SUV segment and South Africans can expect its arrival before the end of 2013. The model will be available in three engine options including a 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol unit delivering 103kW of power, a 1.6-litre petrol engine as well as a 1.7-litre diesel engine which produces 96kW.

The Trax will also be available in front and all-wheel-drive configurations and all manual transmission variants will come with Start/Stop technology. Other features include a 7-inch high-resolution full-colour touch-screen display with the standard Chevrolet MyLink Technology feature that enables users to navigate by means of BringGo, a smart phone app which allows access to TuneIn internet radio.

With Captiva and Trax, Chevrolet will offer two very distinct SUVs in Europe, both featuring Chevrolets iconic design, says Susan Docherty, President and Managing Director of Chevrolet and Cadillac Europe. Trax combines the agility of a small car and the versatility of an SUV, making it perfect for todays urban explorer. The larger and more powerful Captiva has a more upscale presence. Captiva is the ideal companion for those who want to have some adventure, but feel that they could do with more space, capability and that extra bit of convenience, added Docherty.

Land Rover Defender goes electric

Land Rover has built seven electric Defenders that will be unveiled at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show next week. The research electric Land Rover Defender delivers zero emissions while still retaining its proven off-road capability.

Investing in innovation has always been the life-blood of our business and our engineering teams are working hard to develop innovative new technology to provide sustainable motoring solutions,” said John Edwards, Land Rover Global Brand Director.

Land Rover Defender Electric Features

The electric Land Rover Defender is fitted with an electric motor that produces 70kW and 330Nm of torque and is coupled with a 300-volt lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 27kWh. In typical low-speed off-road conditions, the battery can last for up to eight hours with an estimated range of 80km. The battery can be fully charged with a 7kW fast-charger in four hours while a portable 3kW charger takes 10 hours. The 410kg battery is mounted in the front of the Defender and replaces the diesel engine.

Each electric Land Rover Defender features a single speed 2.7:1 reduction gearbox combined with the existing Defender four wheel drive system and differential lock. A modified version of Land Rovers Terrain Response System has also been incorporated.

This project is acting as a rolling laboratory for Land Rover to assess electric vehicles, even in the most arduous all-terrain conditions. It gives us a chance to evolve and test some of the technologies that may one day be introduced into future Land Rover models,” said Antony Harper, Jaguar Land Rover Head of Research.

The all-terrain electric Land Rover Defender will serve as research vehicles for now as they wont go into production. However, the seven EVs will go into service in specialist real world trials later this year.

Toyota 86 Open Concept to be shown in Geneva

The Toyota 86 Open Concept has officially been unveiled ahead of its showing at the Geneva Motor Show next week. The Toyota FT-86 Open Concept shows 86 enthusiasts what the car may look like as a convertible.

Toyota 86 Open Concept goes topless

The Toyota FT-86 Open Concept is based on the rear-wheel-drive 86 sports car and features a range of new and sleek alterations including an electrically operated soft-top roof. The interior and exterior of the Toyota Open Concept is styled with high-contrast white and navy blue liveries that emphasise the vehicles proportions and the integrated nature of its design. Additionally, yellow-gold stitching in the floor mats and seats also convey a sporty feel to the interior.

Further details on the Toyota 86 Open Concept will be revealed at the Geneva Motor Show on 5 March 2013.

Annual Classic Car Show happening at Nasrec Expo Centre

Petrol heads and car enthusiast are invited to experience a festival of passion at the second annual Classic Car Show which takes place this Sunday 3 March 2013 at the Nasrec Expo Centre, Johannesburg. The event drew 22 000 spectators last year and is expected to house an even bigger audience this year. “We’ve already had 1 500 people who’ve submitted their registration forms for our show, making it one of the biggest single-day car events in Africa,” said organiser Paulo Calisto. “The show is very family orientated too, and this year we will have various entertainments going on all day,” he added.

The Entertainment

Helicopter rides
A mechanical bull
A mini theme park
Rock band Ballyhoo Elvis impersonator Charl van Tonder and his backing band
Morgan the beat boxer
Gift boxes presented to car owners with cars exhibiting the most passion for “petrolheadonism”

“The clubs are supporting too, and one of our headline displays will be from the Jaguar Club, whose British line-up of classics will provide an interesting contrast to all the glamour of the muscle-cars and chromed ‘50s classics,” said Calisto. The Rolling Thunder Club will display over 90 cars headed up by the Pontiac GTO. The Daytona exotic car dealership will be showcasing two Lamborghinis, a few Aston Martins and a McLaren super-car. Among the classics that will be shown are Ferrari and Porsche latest models.

Entrance Fee

Admission will be R60 for adults, while children under 12 will have free entry. Anyone driving a classic car will also be admitted free as well as one adult passenger, but additional adult passengers will have to pay the full admission fee. Doors will open at 8am. For further information contact Paulo Calisto by e-mail at [email protected]