Volkswagen XL1 consumes only 0.9 litres per 100km

Volkswagen will be showcasing the XL1 at the upcoming 2013 Geneva Motor Show. The Volkswagen XL1 is the world’s most fuel-efficient production car with a fuel consumption figure of only 0.9-litres/100km.

Volkswagen XL1 is a futuristic car built for today

The Volkswagen XL1’s outstanding performance is thanks to its plug-in hybrid system that consists of a two-cylinder, 35kW TDI engine, a 20kW E-motor, a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox and a lithium-ion battery which makes it possible for the XL1 to emit CO2 emissions of 21g/km and maintain a fuel consumption figure of 0.9-litres/100km. The XL1 can accelerate from 0-100km/h in 12.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 160km/h. The XL1 can also operate in all-electric mode with a range of 50km while emitting zero emissions.

Conceptually, the Volkswagen XL1 represents the third evolutionary stage of Volkswagen’s 1-litre car strategy. Despite the tremendous efficiency of the XL1, developers successfully came up with a body concept, which delivers more everyday utility than the two previous prototypes.

In the XL1, two occupants can sit slightly offset, side by side as in a conventional vehicle as opposed to the 2002/2009 L1 model, which had the driver and passenger sit in a tandem arrangement for optimal aerodynamics. The XL1 is 3.888m long, 1.665m wide and only 1.153m tall, which is some 129mm lower than a Porsche Boxster, giving the XL1 a striking appearance on the road.

Further details will be revealed at the Geneva Motor Show on 5 March 2013.

Chevrolet Trailblazer 4×4 Review

In terms of size, the Chevrolet Trailblazer is one of the biggest vehicles on sale today. Read the review to see how this newcomer fared after an extended test period.

Chevrolet Trailblazer 4×4 review by David Taylor

Breaking into the Toyota-dominated market

The large family-orientated seven seat offroad market has been pretty much cornered by the legendary Toyota Fortuner. While there’s actually nothing wrong with the Fortuner in terms of specification and abilities, this segment does feel like it needs a fresh new face. General Motors believe that its new Chevrolet Trailblazer is the perfect tool to take on the established opposition and is actively marketing it against Toyota.

The Trailblazer is huge

Right, first thing you’ll notice is its size. Not only does it boast aggressive and brawny looks, but it is actually physically big. The size only becomes an issue in the tightest of parking spots, where a deft touch is needed to parallel park.

Big power to match the big looks

Underneath that big bonnet is a 3.6-litre V6. Despite the Chevrolet Trailblazer being a very stereotypical American-style big SUV, there is no big gas-guzzling V8 engine. The V6, however, is perfectly up to the task and boasts a power output of 176kW, while torque is rated at 329Nm. The engine also happens to sound quite muscular and despite the Trailblazer’s size, you’re able to get to the national highway speed limit without straining the engine. The downside is that if you have a heavy foot, you’re going to need to visit the petrol station often. If you’re really worried about fuel consumption, there’s a diesel engine in the range but on a day-to-day basis, you’ll see about 13L/100km.

Seriously strong and capable offroader

Much like most Chevrolet products, the Trailblazer is a good cruiser. Put the gearbox in drive, turn the music up and sit back. Despite being competent on tar, the Trailblazer’s true strength is off the beaten track. Thanks to a nifty dial on the centre console, you’re able to select various 4×4 options such as high-range and low-range. Hill descent control is also a useful thing to have when navigating steep dunes.

Huge space available inside the cabin

The Chevrolet Trailblazer’ interior is interesting to note as you’ll notice that the materials used in its assembly aren’t of the highest quality, but when you consider what the vehicle will be used for, you’ll realise that you actually want the longer-lasting and more durable materials. There’s space galore inside. Not only does it seven seven adults but the third row of seats folds neatly away, allowing the boot’s dimensions to increase.

All the basic features are there

From the driver’s seat, the Trailblazer’s dashboard looks ordinary. Upon closer inspection, you’ll see that pretty much everything you need is close at hand. There’s cruise control, Bluetooth phone pairing integrated into the radio, CD player, an electronically-adjustable driver’s seat and most importantly for a vehicle of this size, rear park distance control. There are also no less than 11 cup holders in the cabin! It’s safe too and boasts six airbags dotted around the interior.

Chevrolet Trailblazer – Conclusion

It’s a beast both on- and off-road, is practical, comfortable and not badly priced at R486 700. I only had two gripes. The gearbox was a little sluggish to respond, meaning that when you wanted to overtake someone on the highway, some planning was required otherwise you wouldn’t have power on demand. Putting the ‘box into manual override solves this easily. My second gripe is the mini USB port. I’ve never seen one used before and I think its placement is odd. Those two things aside, I think the Chevrolet Trailblazer certainly has a lot to offer this segment and I think if current sales are to go by, Toyota should be a little concerned.

Chevrolet Trailblazer – Price

Chevrolet Trailblazer 4×4 LTZ Auto – R476 900

  • Why you should: Seats seven, comfortable, impressive offroader, tough interior, powerful engine
  • Why you shouldn’t: V6 engine is thirsty, sluggish gearbox
  • It would be better if: the mini USB was replaced by a proper USB, automatic gearbox was a little bit more responsive.
  • View the Chevrolet Trailblazer: New / Used
  • Competitors worth checking out: Toyota Fortuner, Mitsubishi Pajero Sport

Fiat Qubo arrives in South Africa

The Fiat Qubo has been introduced to South Africa and is based on a ‘free space’ philosophy and offers a practical and economical form of mobility. The Fiat Qubo MPV is highly functional and features two sliding rear doors as well as a flexible interior with ample space for luggage and other objects.

Fiat Qubo offers flexibility and versatility

Engine Capability

The new Fiat Qubo is powered with a choice of either a 1.3-litre Multijet turbo-diesel engine or a 1.4-litre petrol derivative. The 1.3-litre Multijet turbo-diesel engine produces 55kW at 4 000rpm with a maximum torque figure of 190Nm available from 1 750Nm. This variant has a top speed of 155km/h with a combined cycle fuel consumption figure of 4.6-litres/100km. The 1.4-litre petrol engine produces 54kW at 5 200rpm with a maximum torque figure of 118Nm at 2 600 rpm. This variant also reaches a top speed of 155km/h but has a combined fuel consumption figure of 7.0-litres/100km. Both engines are are mated to a 5-speed manual transmission.

Exterior and Interior Design Features

The Fiat Qubo features a bold and solid appearance standing 3.96m long, 1.72m tall and 1.68m wide. The front bumper matches the body colour of the Fiat Qubo which also features body side moulding for added protection. The head and tail lights feature transparencies and chromium plating and are high-mounted for protection.

On the inside, a total of 16 different seating combinations offer versatility and allow customers to fully exploit the space available. With the seats in their normal upright position, the boot offers 330-litres of space and 650-litres if measured to the roof of the vehicle. With the rear seats removed and the front passenger seat folded down, space increases dramatically to 2 500-litres. The symmetrical and modular T-shaped dashboard is home to all the controls and instrumentation, all at the driver’s fingertips. A glove box, central tunnel and door panels offer additional storage while an armrest provides comfort.

The Fiat Qubo is fitted with the standard Blue&Me Bluetooth technology hands-free system with steering wheel mounted controls, MP3 file reader with a USB port. The Qubo is available in a range of 10 exterior colours including four pastel colours and six metallic colours.

In terms of safety, the Fiat Qubo is fitted with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake-Force Distribution (EBD), 3-point seat belts with tensioners, power steering and front and side airbags.

Fiat Qubo – Price

Model Price
Fiat Qubo 1.3 diesel R199 990
Fiat Qubo 1.4 petrol R177 990

The price includes a standard 3-year / 100 000km warranty and maintenance plan.

New Subaru Forester launched in South Africa

The new Subaru Forester is now available in South Africa. The new Subaru Forester is available with a choice of five models and fitted with the latest generation Boxer engines and equipped with innovative technologies. The new Forester is considered to be the ‘smartest, safest and most efficient Forester to date’, according to Subaru.

New Subaru Forester – Specifications and Features

Engine Capability

The entry-level 2.0 X is powered by a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder Boxer engine that produces 110kW and 198Nm of torque. Fuel consumption for this engine is rated at 7.2-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 168g/km. This engine is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox.

A 2.5 -litre Boxer engine is available across the X, XS and XS Premium trim levels and produces 126kW and 235Nm of torque. All the 2.5-litre models feature Lineartronic CVT transmission which include X-Mode and the two-mode SI-Drive. Combined fuel consumption for this unit is 8.1-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 187g/km.

The range-topping 2.0 XT Lineartronic is powered by a direct injection turbocharged four-cylinder Boxer petrol engine that produces 177kW and 350Nm of torque . Combined fuel consumption is rated at 8.5-litres/100km with a carbon emissions figure of 197g/km. The new Subaru Forester also features the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system which contributes to enhanced grip in all driving conditions, whether it be on or off the road.

Exterior and Interior Styling Features

The newly sculpted front-end is both sporty and rugged looking with the A-pillar sitting 200mm further forward when compared to the previous generation. The sleek and elegant overall design is complemented with 17-inch or 18-inch wheel designs, prominent wheel arches and a higher ride height which asserts the Forester’s presence on the road. The new Subaru Forester is available with a choice of eight colours.

The interior has been restyled to incorporate sophisticated shapes and soft-touch materials with silver accents used extensively throughout the interior for a more modern feel. The seating has been redesigned to offer maximum comfort and the raised seating position offers enhanced all-round visibility. With a wheelbase of 2.64m, the Forester offers a comfortable and spacious interior for the whole family.

Safety Features

The new Subaru Forester has been awarded a five-star safety rating from the Australian ANCAP, as well as by Euro NCAP and scored the highest possible marks for SUVs in the 2012 Euro NCAP crash tests. Some notable safety features include Subaru’s Ring-Shaped Reinforcement, a reversing camera, Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), seven airbags and a collapsible brake pedal and steering column. Other safety features include ISOFIX child seat mounts with tether anchors, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Limited Slip Device (LSD) and Brake Assist (BA).

New Subaru Forester – Price

Model Price
Subaru Forester 2.0 X 6-speed manual R329 000
Subaru Forester 2.5 X Lineartronic CVT R359 000
Subaru Forester 2.5 XS Lineartronic CVT R389 000
Subaru Forester 2.5 XS Premium Lineartronic CVT R429 000
Subaru Forester XT Lineartronic CVT R529 000

Prices include a 3-year / 75 000km Maintenance Plan, a 3-year / 100 000km warranty and Subaru Assist. Various extension packages are also available.

Fiat Abarth Fuoriserie models to debut in Geneva

Four Fiat Abarth Fuoriserie models and the Punto SuperSport model will be shown at next month’s Geneva Motor Show which starts on 5 March. The 695 Fuori line-up will comprise the Scorpione, Record, Black Diamond and Hype series, all based on the Abarth 500 Custom program.

Fiat Abarth Fuoriserie extends personalisation options

The range of personalisation options has been extended through performance tuning kits, brake systems, exhaust systems and an extensive array of accessories, new colours and materials for exterior and interior features. Customers will also be able to choose from hand-crafted painted and polished roof and bonnet livery.

Abarth will also showcase the Punto SuperSport hatchback fitted with a 1.4-litre MultiAir engine delivering 132kW of power with a torque figure of 270Nm and mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. Travelling from 0-100km/h in 7.5 seconds, the car reaches a top speed of 216 km/h.

Further details will be communicated when the Geneva Motor Show commences on 5 March 2013.

New Ford Fiesta in South Africa

The new Ford Fiesta is now available in South Africa and features new styling and incorporates a range of technology including its 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine, Ford SYNC in-car connectivity system and Ford’s MyKey system. The new Ford Fiesta is available with a choice of three engine derivatives and three specification grades while a selection of Option Packs are available for further personalisation.

New Ford Fiesta gets new look and tech

Engine Capability

The Ford Fiesta’s three-cylinder, 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine delivers 92kW and 170Nm of torque while returning an impressive combined fuel consumption figure of 4.3-litres/100km and CO2 emissions of only 99g/km. This engine also features Auto Stop-Start and Smart Regenerative Charging. Apart from the EcoBoost engine, Ford is still offering the 71kW/125Nm 1.4-litre engine and the 70kW/200Nm 1.6-litre TDCI engine for the new Fiesta. The 1.4-litre engine consumes 5.7-litres/100km while the 1.6-litre unit consumes 3.6-litres/100km.

Exterior and Interior Design Features

The new Ford Fiesta features a large trapezoidal front grille that’s complemented with laser-cut headlamps with LED daytime running lights and a power dome bonnet. The Fiesta comes with a choice of 12 exterior colours including the new Copper Pulse, Hot Magenta and Candy Blue.

On the inside, the upper instrument panel has a high-gloss finish which flows into the lower console and is replicated in the door panels. Satin-chrome detailing adorns the interior while Ford’s signature Ice Blue lighting illuminates dials, switches and displays. Contact point finishes have also been improved and the electric window switches and door handles have been relocated to improve ergonomics. A central arm-rest and larger door pockets provide additional storage options.

Technology Features

The new Ford Fiesta is fitted with SYNC, allowing drivers to connect with digital media devices and Bluetooth enabled mobile phones via voice commands and steering mounted controls. The Ford MyKey system is a new feature and enables parents to encourage safer driving by limiting their children’s risk at the wheel. Parents can pre-determine maximum speeds and audio volume limits. The system also mutes the audio until seat belts are fastened and ensures that driver aids and safety systems cannot be deactivated.

Ford Marketing Manager, Gavin Golightly said, “This car was built for the digital generation,” says Golightly. “With Bluetooth connectivity and MP3 capabilities, tech-savvy people who use social media to be constantly connected with the world around them won’t be slowed down when they get in this car.

Safety Features

The new Ford Fiesta comes with comprehensive safety features which include Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) fitted standard across the range. Hill Start Assist is offered as an option on the Trend derivatives and is fitted as standard on the Titanium models. Seven airbags including dual front, side, curtain and a driver’s knee airbag are included. The new Ford Fiesta has also earned a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating.

New Ford Fiesta – Price

Model Price
Ford Fiesta 1.4 Ambiente R164 400
Ford Fiesta 1.6 TDCi Ambiente R178 400
Ford Fiesta 1.4 Trend R187 600
Ford Fiesta 1.6 TDCi Trend R201 400
Ford Fiesta 1.0 EcoBoost Trend R211 200
Ford Fiesta EcoBoost Titanium R231 500

The new Ford Fiesta Fiesta is available with a fully comprehensive 4-year / 120 000km warranty and 4-year / 60 000km service plan. Service intervals are staggered at 20 000km intervals for the petrol derivative and 15 000km for the diesel models. Customers will also benefit from 3-years of Roadside Assistance and a 5-year corrosion warranty.

Datsun returning to South Africa in 2014

Nissan South Africa has announced that the Datsun brand, which was phased out in 1981, will make its return to South Africa with the first passenger vehicle expected for launch at the end of 2014.

“The return of Datsun is integral to our expansion in fast-growing markets where there is a mushrooming upwardly mobile segment,” said Vincent Cobee, corporate vice president at Nissan Motor Co. Ltd. He added, “Datsun’s key values, accessible, reliable and modern, are designed to accommodate the needs and aspirations of this target group, just as it did for similarly optimistic customers in Japan, America and a large part of the world during most of the 20th century.”

The Datsun Brand

The return of the Datsun brand follows a decision made in 2010 to re-introduce the brand as part of the company’s ambitious Nissan Power 88 mid-term plan to achieve 8% of the global market share and operating profit by 2016.

Also, Datsun is to be re-established with a strong independent brand identity, alongside the Nissan and Infiniti brands. Cobee further explained, “Our aim is to deliver new and exciting products that meet local customer needs assured by global Japanese Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) expertise and technology.”

The Datsun logo

The Datsun logo embodies the brands styling identity and the inner portion of the logo preserves the essence of the original Datsun logo with a blue bar striking through the rising sun. This reflects the founding spirit of ‘sincerity leads to success’ said Cobee.

He continues, “The rising sun represents the energy of rising towards a better tomorrow and the striking blue bar represents pure integrity built into providing innovative solutions. The outer shape represents the edge and modernity of the new Datsun brand. The blue brand colour is embedded in our heritage which is rooted in sincerity and trustworthiness.”

The Datsun brand will also be introduced in India, Indonesia and Russia in 2014.

2014 Citroen C3 to debut at Geneva Motor Show

The face-lifted 2014 Citroen C3 will make its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show in early March. The C3 was launched in 2002 and almost 3-million units have been sold since. The revised 2014 Citroen C3 now features PureTech petrol engines that offer a 15% power increase while reducing fuel consumption by 25%.

2014 Citroen C3 is frugal urban runaround

Engine Capability

The 2014 Citroen C3 is powered by Citroen’s new generation PureTech three-cylinder petrol engines with either a 1.0-litre or 1.2-litre capacity. The VTi 68 and VTi 82 PureTech engines exhibit low fuel consumption between 4.5-litres/100km and 4.3-litres/100km. CO2 emissions are between 99 and 104g/km. A VTi engine is also available with a manual or automatic gearbox.

Additionally, the 2014 Citroen C3 is to be offered with four diesel engines in the UK including the HDi 70, e-HDi 70, HDi 90 and e-HDi 115. Three of them include micro-hybrid e-HDi technology with an efficient Stop & Start system which helps reduce CO2 emissions to 87g/km.

Exterior Styling Features

The C3’s front-end features updated chevrons and bumper mounted LED daytime running lights. Additional features include new taillight clusters combined with new reflectors set underneath the rear bumper. Customers can choose between nine exterior colours including the new Ink blue body paint.

Interior Styling Features

The interior features chrome detailing and a thermo-coated soft-touch dashboard which can be underlined with matt-black, warm brown or Moondust grey dashboard strips.

The instrument cluster is backlit in white for a contemporary look and easier-to-read driving information. The new 2014 Citroen C3 boasts 300-litres of boot space. The central console, glove box and central armrest offer additional storage compartments.

Visibility is enhanced with the unique Zenith windscreen, the reversing camera and parking sensors.The Zenith windscreen increases the upward field of vision for front passengers by 80-degrees and combines with ultra-slim pillars to give a panoramic view of the road ahead. The screen also provides solar protection at the top which gradually merges into clear glass for an optimum field of vision.

Convenience is increased by features such as the RD4 MP3 audio system, Connecting Box (Bluetooth hands-free kit, jack plug and USB socket), eMyWay navigation and a powerful Hi-Fi System.

The 2014 Citroen C3 can be expected in South Africa later in 2013.

Audi A3 e-tron to make Geneva debut

The Audi A3 e-tron plug-in hybrid will be shown at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show and according to Audi, it will give the world a realistic glimpse into the future of mobility.

Audi A3 e-tron embraces electric mobility

Engine Capability

The highly efficient five-door plug-in hybrid guarantees sporty performance with a power output of 150kW and a maximum torque figure of 350Nm. The Audi A3 e-tron sprints from zero to 100km/h in 7.6 seconds and can reach a top speed of 222km/h.

Fuel consumption is rated at 1.5-litres/100km with CO2 emissions rated at only 35g/km. In electric mode, the Audi A3 e-tron reaches a top speed of 130km/h and has a maximum range of 50km. The disc-shaped electric motor is mated to a newly designed 6-speed e-S tronic which transfers power to the front wheels.

The combustion engine is a modified 1.4 TFSI that delivers 110kW while the clutch links the engine to an electric motor with an output of 75kW. The Audi A3 e-tron can be driven with just the combustion engine, electric motor or both.

The Geneva Motor Show starts on 5 March 2013.

2013 Chevrolet Spark range beefed up

The 2013 Chevrolet Spark range has been updated and now includes a new top-of-the-range ‘LT’ specification level as well as the addition of a urban delivery solution called the Spark Pronto. The Spark has also been refreshed with a number of exterior and interior styling revisions for 2013.

More choice for 2013 Chevrolet Spark range

Engine Capability

All 2013 Chevrolet Spark models are powered by a 1.2-litre, four cylinder petrol engine that is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. Maximum power output is rated at 60kW at 6 400rpm with a maximum torque figure of 108Nm available at 4 800rpm. Average fuel consumption is rated at 5.4-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 129g/km.

Improved Design Features

The new 2013 Chevrolet Spark features a new front fascia, rocker mouldings, a larger radiator grille, revised headlights and the side mirrors now incorporate turn signals. A decorative chrome strip is found on the beltline and 14-inch or 15-inch alloy wheels are available for the Spark LT.

The rear tail-lights have been restyled and a chrome strip now features on the tailgate lift handle. The rear bumper has also been restyled and now includes a triangular chromed tailpipe. The ‘LS’ and ‘LT’ models feature a large roof spoiler with a high-mounted stop-light as standard. The styling of the Spark ‘LT’ can be enhanced with the optional Sports Style Decal kit available in white, silver and black. The kit includes components for the hood, roof panel, liftgate and rear roof spoiler.

Interior Features

On the inside, the 2013 Chevrolet Spark is now offered with new fabric materials and designs. Some of the controls have been re-positioned in the centre stack to enhance ergonomics and styling. The interior trim colour is matched with the exterior and customers have a choice of four trim variations. The Spark offers 170-litres of luggage space and the 60/40 split-folding seats offer additional space when required. Additional storage includes cup holders in the centre console, storage pockets in the front doors with bottle holders as well as seatback pockets for rear-seat passengers.

The Chevrolet Spark Pronto

The new Chevrolet Spark Pronto is a new addition to the Spark range and serves as a light urban delivery vehicle. The Spark Pronto is based on the Spark passenger vehicle platform and offers a 275kg payload with 876-litres of space. Roof rails are standard and facilitate the fitting of a roof rack. As with other Spark models, the Pronto is fitted with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) as standard. The Spark Pronto is fitted with the same engine found on the other Spark models with an average fuel consumption figure of 5.4-litres/100km.

2013 Chevrolet Spark – Price

Model Price
Chevrolet Spark 1.2 Campus R106 100
Chevrolet Spark 1.2 R113 600
Chevrolet Spark 1.2 LS R123 000
Chevrolet Spark 1.2 LT R136 500
Chevrolet Spark Pronto Van R101 500

All models include a 5-year/120 000km warranty with Roadside Assistance for the full warranty period.