Jaguar F-Type to debut at Paris Motor Show

The all new Jaguar F-TYPE sports car will be making its public debut at the Paris Motor Show next week.

New Jaguar F-TYPE features impressive tech and performance

The Jaguar F-TYPE, a front engined, rear-wheel drive convertible will be available in three models. The Jaguar F-Type will be powered respectively by 250kW and 280kW versions of Jaguar’s new 3.0-litre V6 supercharged petrol engine and a new derivative of its 5.0-litre V8 supercharged engine, all of which are engineered to deliver pure dynamic driving and excellent performance.

Mike Cross, Chief Engineer, Vehicle Integrity, Jaguar had the following to say, “Fundamentally, a great sports car is one you’ll look forward to driving because it’s fun, and the F-TYPE definitely delivers on that score. We’ve worked hard to make sure that responses to steering, throttle and brakes are absolutely immediate, a task made far easier by the rigid aluminium structure at the car’s base. It’s precise and exciting, a car that you’ll want to drive for the sake of driving alone – and it sounds fantastic!”

More details and images of the new Jaguar F-TYPE will be made available closer to the official launch at the Paris Motor Show.

New Audi A3 Sportback? revealed

Details of the new Audi A3 Sportback has been released. The new compact five-door A3 Sportback offers a spacious luggage compartment and weighs up to 90kg less than the outgoing model due its ultra lightweight construction technology. The new Audi A3 Sportback features a wide range of powerful and efficient engine options and its infotainment and driver assistance systems set new standards in the premium compact segment.

New Audi A3 Sportback on the road to success

?Engine Capability

The new Audi A3 Sportback comes with a choice of one TDI and two TFSI engines. Two diesel engines and one petrol engine will follow at a later stage. The engines feature direct injection, turbocharging, thermal management and a start/stop system. In addition, average fuel consumption has been reduced by 10% compared to the previous model.

The 1.6-litre TDI is the most efficient engine in the line-up consuming only 3.8-litres/100km in manual guise and exhibits a CO2 emissions rating of 99g/km. With this engine, 0-100km/h is achieved in 10.9 seconds with a top speed of 194km/h.

Available in two versions, the newly developed 2.0-litre TDI produces 110kW and 320Nm of torque. Fuel consumption is rated at 4.6-litres/100km with a corresponding CO2 emissions figure of 120g/km. 0-100km/h is achieved in 8.4 seconds with a top speed of 213km/h. The more powerful version of this engine develops 135kW and 380Nm. Fuel consumption is rated at 4.3-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 111g/km. 0-100km/h is completed in 7.4 seconds with a top speed of 232km/h.

The 1.2-litre TFSI which will be available later produces 77kW and 175Nm of torque. The new 1.4-litre TFSI produces 90kW and 200Nm of torque while accelerating to 100km/h in 9.3 seconds and reaching a top speed of 203km/h. Fuel consumption for this engine is rated at 5.3-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 123g/km. A second 103kW/250Nm version of this engine will become available at a later stage.

The most powerful engine in the line-up is the 1.8-litre TFSI petrol engine that produces 132kW and 250Nm of torque. With S tronic and front-wheel drive, this engine achieves 0-100km/h in 7.3 seconds with a top speed of 232km/h. Fuel consumption is rated at 5.6-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 130g/km.

Audi will expand its engine offering for the A3 Sportback with the S model and a TCNG engine that operates on Audi e-gas. The new Audi A3 Sportback e-tron with a plug-in hybrid drive is expected in 2014.
All Audi A3 Sportback models are paired with a 6-speed manual transmission and S tronic is available as an option.

Exterior Styling

The new Audi A3 Sportback is slightly longer, wider and taller than the outgoing model. The new A3 Sportback features a distinctive stone gray single-frame grille with angled upper corners and the lower edges of the flat headlights taper off at an angle. Xenon plus headlights with LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) are available as an option and LED headlights will be available later. The front-end also features large air intakes.

The side profile features a tornado line that gives the A3 Sportback a powerful appearance. The rear-end features split rear lights that emphasise the car’s width and LED light conductors appear to form a continuous arch. An adaptive brake light is fitted as standard. Depending on the engine, the exhaust sytem terminates in one or two tailpipes on the left hand side of the car. The new Audi A3 Sportback is available in 13 colours with three solid finishes, eight metallic finishes and two pearl-effect finishes.

Interior Styling

The new Audi A3 Sportback interior is clean, elegant and luxurious, featuring the MMI operating system with a power retractable monitor which is available with the MMI radio. The steering wheel has either three or four spokes, depending on the model, and has a flat-bottom rim, multifunction buttons and shift paddles. With its increase in size, the new A3 Sportback offers more leg and head room than the outgoing model. Upholstery material options include cloth, synthetic leather, Milano leather, Pearl Nappa leather and Alcantara. ??A highlight of the new Audi A3 Sportback is its spacious luggage compartment that offers 380-litres of space in its basic configuration. With the 60/40 rear seats folded down, capacity increases to 1 220-litres. ??The new Audi A3 Sportback can be expected in South Africa in 2013.

2013 Aston Martin DB9 revealed

Aston Martin has made enhancements its iconic Sports GT car, the DB9. The new 2013 Aston Martin DB9 features new styling, revised engineering and enhanced luxury features. The DB9 combines elements from the outgoing Virage and has streamlined Aston Martin’s GT offering.

2013 Aston Martin DB9 oozes class

??Engine Capability

The 2013 Aston Martin DB9 is fitted with an updated 6.0-litre V12 petrol engine that produces 380kW with a maximum torque figure of 620Nm. The new V12 uses some of the ‘Gen4’ VH architecture hardware technology developed for Aston Martin’s forthcoming Vanquish, but has been tuned to suit the DB9. ??The engine features a revised block, new head including dual variable valve timing, enlarged throttle bodies, uprated fuel pump, revised intake manifold and machined combustion chambers.

Exterior Styling

The exterior design of the DB9 is both elegant and assertive. Using a classic Aston Martin GT silhouette as its base, the DB9 features a more pronounced rear boot ‘flip’ that is designed to enhance aerodynamic performance. The DB9 takes on a low and wide stance which is accented by the ‘light catcher’ feature which runs from the lower front bumper, along the sill to create a chiselled, muscular appearance.

The 2013 Aston Martin DB9 comes with bi-xenon headlamps and a front grille with five horizontal vanes which are chamfered to create an aerofoil. Aston Martin’s integrated side strake and LED siderepeaters are also included.

Interior Styling

The 2013 Aston Martin DB9 features an elegant and luxurious interior. The interior incorporates welt leather first used on the Virage and is designed by Aston Martin’s master craftsmen. Jewel-like glass switchgear is used throughout the interior. ??Aston Martin Chief Executive Officer Dr Ulrich Bez said: “Aside from the undeniably beautiful exterior styling and now even more luxurious interior, there are many important and impressive engineering changes that demonstrate Aston Martin’s renowned ability to create compelling cars in the modern era.”

The 2013 Aston Martin DB9 is available in either Coupe or Volante body styles and will only be available in certain markets.

Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive Concept to be shown

The Mercedes-Benz B-Class will see a new battery-powered electric variant concept introduced at the 2012 Paris Motor Show. The Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive is one of the first vehicles to incorporate the term ‘Electric Drive’ into its model designation and the term will be featured on the boot lids of all battery-powered electric passenger cars from Mercedes-Benz, Mercedes-AMG and Smart.

Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive Concept is a family city slicker

The Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive concept is equipped with a 100kW electric motor that produces 310Nm. The range of the Concept B-Class Electric Drive is 200km and the battery can be charged at any standard domestic 230 V power outlet or alternatively, with rapid charging function, at a 400V high-voltage terminal.

Suitable for everyday and family use, the Concept B-Class Electric Drive is almost ready for series production with a market launch already planned for 2014.

New Volvo V40 Cross Country coming to South Africa

With the arrival of the all-new Volvo V40 expected in November 2012, Volvo Car South Africa has announced that the new Volvo V40 Cross Country will also be available in South Africa in February 2013.

New Volvo V40 Cross Country – Features

Engine Capability

Although the South African engine line-up for the new Volvo V40 Cross Country will be confirmed closer to launch, the following engine options can be expected.

The all-wheel drive V40 T5 is fitted with a five cylinder, 2.5-litre petrol turbo engine that produces 187kW and 400Nm of torque with 40Nm overboost. Fuel consumption for the T5 is rated at 7.8-litres/100km and makes use of a 6-speed automatic gearbox.

The V40 T4 is fitted with a 1.6-litre GTDi engine that develops 132kW and 270Nm of torque with 30Nm overboost. Fuel consumption is rated at 5.5-litres/100km with a corresponding CO2 emissions figure of 129g/km. The V40 T4 is mated with either a 6-speed Powershift automatic transmission or a 6-speed manual gearbox.

Diesel options include the five-cylinder 2.0-litre D4 turbodiesel that develops 130kW and 400Nm of torque. Fuel consumption is rated at 5.2-litres/100km with a corresponding CO2 rating of 137g/km. In addition, the 2.0-litre D3 produces 110kW and 350Nm of torque. Both turbodiesel models are fitted with a 6-speed automatic transmission. All models have a start/stop function and braking regeneration as standard.

Styling Features

The driver rides 40mm higher in the new Volvo V40 Cross Country when compared to the standard V40. The new Volvo V40 Cross Country also has unique features such as wheel rim sizes up to 19 inches, a dark contrasting front bumper, honeycomb mesh grille, upright Daytime Running Lights (DRLs), sculpted contrasting sills and a contrasting rear bumper with an integrated skid plate.

The launch ‘Raw Copper’ exterior finish is echoed in the interior with contrasting stitching with the option of a ‘Copper Dawn’ centre stack inlay. Five leather upholstery options will also be available including the ‘Espresso Brown’ accent colour. The interior also offers seven different mood lighting options that provide ‘theatre lighting’ feel. LED lamps are used to light up strategic areas and both front and rear reading lights can be dimmed.

The new Volvo V40 Cross Country exhibits exceptional storage versatility with its easily foldable, 40/60 rear seat. The load compartment can be equipped with a hanging load net. A soft safety net is available as an option while a steel version is available as an accessory.

The new Volvo V40 Cross Country can also be equipped with an ‘extra’ floor in the load compartment which creates additional storage options. The front passenger seat can also be folded down to create even more space. Numerous storage compartments can be found throughout the cabin and are designed to store smaller items.

The new Volvo V40 Cross Country will be built in Volvo Car Corporation’s production plant in Ghent, Belgium and production gets under way in November 2012. The new Volvo V40 Cross Country South African line-up and pricing will be announced closer to launch.

New Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG in South Africa

The new Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG has been launched in South Africa alongside the new SL 500 and SL 63 AMG.  The new SL 65 AMG Roadster features an all-aluminium body shell that has contributed to a weight loss of 170kg when compared to the outgoing model.

New Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG has feisty power and style

Engine Capability

The SL 65 AMG is fitted with a powerful AMG 6-litre V12 bi-turbo engine that produces a maximum output of 463kW and 1 000Nm of torque. The engine is mated to the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC transmission, which together with the ECO start/stop function, allows for a fuel consumption figure of 11.6-litres/100km which represents a saving of 17% compared to the outgoing SL 65 AMG. CO2 emissions are rated at 270g/km.

Acceleration to 100km/h is achieved in 4.0 seconds and the SL 65 AMG is capable of reaching a limited top speed of 250km/h.

Exterior Styling

Central to the new Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG styling is its new ‘twin blade’ radiator grille finished in high-sheen chrome. The stylised ‘A’, a characteristic feature of AMG vehicles, can be seen below the ‘twin blade’ radiator grille. The front-end also features a lower cross strut across the front apron that’s also finished in high-sheen chrome. The ‘twin blade’ radiator grille and lower cross strut underline the new AMG brand face while the use of high-sheen chrome highlights differentiates the SL 65 AMG from the SL 63 AMG.

The SL 65 AMG is fitted with 19-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels painted in titanium grey with a high-sheen finish. AMG multi-spoke forged light-alloy wheels in matt black with high-sheen rim flange are available as an option. The SL 65 AMG also features an electrohydraulic operated vario-roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL that changes from light to dark with the push of a button.

Interior Styling

The new Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG is fitted with electrically adjustable AMG sports seats with single or optional two-tone upholstery in Nappa leather available with AMG diamond pattern. Nappa leather is also used on the door panels. Designo headlining in leather with partial AMG V12 diamond-design quilting is available as an option.

Interior highlights include AMG carbon-fibre trim elements, the IWC-design analogue clock, chromed AMG door sill panels in white and the AMG Performance steering wheel.

New Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG – Price

Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG – R2 621 000

McLaren P1 Supercar to preview at Paris Motor Show

McLaren has released three photographs of its next generation supercar, the P1, which will make its official appearance at the 2012 Paris Motor Show at the end of September. The P1 seeks to be the “best driver’s car in the world on road and track”.

The production version will be available towards the end of 2013 and although McLaren has not revealed any performance figures, it has stated that the P1 will be above the 12C and the 12C Spider in terms of performance and price. 

McLaren Automotive Managing Director Antony Sheriff said “Our aim is not necessarily to be the fastest in absolute top speed but to be the quickest and most rewarding series production road car on a circuit. It is the true test of a supercar’s all round ability and a much more important technical statement. It will be the most exciting, most capable, most technologically advanced and most dynamically accomplished supercar ever made.” 

More information about the McLaren P1 will be made available following the McLaren Automotive press conference at the Paris Motor Show on 27 September 2012.

Lexus LF-CC for Paris Motor Show

Lexus will be showcasing a new mid-sized, full hybrid coupe concept, the LF-CC, at the Paris Motor Show at the end of September. The Lexus LF-CC is a glimpse of Lexus’ future D-Segment vehicles, incorporating L-finesse design language and Lexus’ signature ‘spindle grille’.

Lexus LF-CC – Specifications and Features

Engine Capability

The Lexus LF-CC is equipped with an all-new, highly efficient 2.5-litre DOHC, four-cylinder petrol engine that adopts the Atkinson cycle and D-4S direct injection technology. This engine is mated to Lexus’ Hybrid Drive powertrain with a compact, high-output, water-cooled permanent magnet electric motor. Other components include a generator, high-performance battery, a power split device and a compact power control unit. Together, the unit will emit CO2 in the region of 100g/km. This new hybrid powertrain will be introduced into the Lexus range in the near future.

Exterior Styling

The Lexus LF-CC showcases Lexus’ L-finesse design language and Lexus’ bold ‘spindle grille’ which is framed by the bonnet lip, deep lower spoiler and front fender tips and is surrounded in a metal finish giving it a 3D look. The Lexus LF-CC also features a 3 LED-projector headlamp design set between the lower and upper fender surfaces as well as independent Daytime Running Lights which are integrated into the upper bumper surface.

At the rear, the LF-CC takes on a broad stance featuring Lexus’ characteristic L-shaped combination lamps which take on a three dimensional design. The Lexus LF-CC is finished in a new ‘Fluid Titanium’ exterior colour.

Interior Styling

The interior of the Lexus FF-CC is luxurious and represents a further development of Lexus’ HMI (Human Machine Interface) design philosophy. The dashboard is divided into two zones, namely the Display Zone featuring a multi-display screen and the a lower Operation Zone which incorporates the gear lever and an innovative touch tracer display for remote system control. All functional driving components are consolidated in the driver’s seat surroundings creating a driver focused environment.

The seats, door panels and instrument binnacle hood are trimmed in an elegant amber leather finish. The extensive use of metallic finishes and soft touch materials further enhance the interior quality.

New Mercedes-Benz SL 500 in South Africa

Details of the new Mercedes-Benz SL 500 have been revealed and has for the first time implemented an all-aluminium body shell in a series-production model, making the new SL 500 weigh up to 140kg less than the outgoing model. The new Mercedes-Benz SL 500 delivers agile handling and its new direct petrol injection engine is up to 22% more economical compared to the V8 engine used in the outgoing generation.

New Mercedes-Benz SL 500 is lighter in weight and fuel consumption

Engine Capability

The new Mercedes-Benz SL500 is fitted with a new 4.7-litre direct injection petrol V8 engine that develops 320kW and 700Nm of torque compared to the 530Nm in the outgoing model. Fuel consumption has been reduced by 22% compared to the outgoing model and the SL 500 displays a combined-cycle fuel consumption figure of 9.1-litres/100km and a corresponding CO2 emissions figure of 212g/km.

Transmission comes in the form of the 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission and the SL 500 also comes with a standard-fit ECO start/stop function, all of which contribute to improved fuel economy. Acceleration to 100km/h is completed in 4.6 seconds while going on to reach a top speed of 250km/h.

Exterior Styling

The new SL 500 features classic SL proportions as seen in its long bonnet, compact passenger compartment and wide, muscular rear-end. The front-end features an upright classic sports car radiator grille accented by slanting headlamps that come standard with the Intelligent Light System (ILS) that offers five different lighting functions for changing driving and weather conditions. The curved sidelights and horizontal strip of the Daytime Running Lights feature LED technology

The new SL 500 is also offered with a vario-roof with an electrohydraulic mechanism which converts the SL 500 into a roadster or a coupé. Three versions are available including painted, glass roof or the panaoramic vario-roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL which switches from light to dark at the push of a button. The roof takes less than 20 seconds to open or close.

Interior Styling

The new Mercedes-Benz SL 500 is both longer and wider than the outgoing model, offering more interior space and higher levels of comfort. Wood trim extends from the centre console, across the dashboard and into the doors giving a wrap-around effect. Three types of wood and two different aluminium finishes are available. The SL 500 is fitted with the Frontbass system as standard and offers superb sound quality. The ‘Cockpit Management and Data System’ COMMAND Online is also fitted as standard with functionality for Bluetooth telephony, internet access and a DVD changer. The COMMAND Online features a high resolution TFT colour display with a 17.8cm diagonal screen to avoid driving distraction.

New Mercedes-Benz SL 500 – Price

Mercedes-Benz SL 500 – R1 635 000

New Hyundai i30 Three-Door to Debut at Paris Motor Show

Hyundai has revealed details of its new three-door i30 ahead of its world debut at the 2012 Paris Motor Show. The Hyundai i30 three-door is the third member of the new generation i30 family and stands alongside the five-door hatchback and Tourer.

New Hyundai i30 Three-Door adds flair to range

Engine Capability

The new Hyundai i30 is offered with a choice of four engines and five power outputs along with a 6-speed manual and automatic transmission. The highlight in the range is the ‘U-II’ 1.6-litre diesel engine that produces 94kW of power and emits 97g/km of CO2.

Exterior Styling

The new Hyundai i30 three-door features Hyundai’s ‘Fluidic Sculpture’ design language which gives it its sporty appeal with a sharply-raked beltline, more angular glasshouse silhouette and longer front doors. The front-end features a new black-finished mesh insert and a central bar that highlights the hexagonal grille. Sporty fog lamp clusters with LED Daytime Running Lights and a newly designed lower bumper further enhances the look of the i30. The new Hyundai  i30 gets a re-modeled lower bumper with horizontally sculpted fog lamps and rides on 16-inch alloy wheels.

Interior Styling

Like its five-door sibling, the i30 three-door offers high standards of quality, equipment and comfort. The European specification i30 benefits from FLEX STEER which allows the driver to adjust the steering settings according to preference and prevailing driving conditions.

It’s not clear if or when the new Hyundai i30 three-door will be made available in South Africa.