2013 Nissan GT-R available in South Africa

The high performance 2013 Nissan GT-R has been revamped and is now available in South Africa. Nissan technicians have used data collected at the famous Nurburgring 24-Hour endurance race to sharpen some of the GT-R’s finer details to improve its handling, engine characteristics and chassis.

Updated 2013 Nissan GT-R rumbles into SA

Engine Capability

The 2013 Nissan GT-R retains it’s twin turbocharged 3.8 litre V6 engine that delivers an 397kW and 628Nm of torque. However, the engine now features new high-output injectors which allow for greater control of fuel injection and improvements to its responsiveness in the mid and upper rev ranges have been achieved. A specially-developed orifice for the turbocharger’s bypass relief valve has been included to suppress the rapid decrease in forced induction air pressure to sustain acceleration at high rpm. A new baffle plate in the oil pan stabilises oil pressure during high performance driving.

Improved Handling

The GT-R’s centre of gravity has been lowered and the shock absorber and front stabiliser specifications have been modified. The front suspension now features cam bolts that improve camber accuracy and alignment setting maintainability. The torque that goes from the driveshaft to the hub bearings has been increased to improve reliability in high-stress situations like track driving.

Other improved features include driving stability and steering response. Reinforcements have been added at two locations, in the dash panel bar and instrument panel resulting in increased body rigidity and suspension performance.

Interior Styling Features

The 2013 Nissan GT-R features new stitching and thicker seams on the instrument panel and door trim. A new interior package includes a two-tone combination of Amber Red and Black Leather which adds style to the cabin. The front seats are now covered in genuine hand stitched semi-aniline leather.

The 2013 Black Edition now features a new red-and-black combination leather steering wheel for increased sporty flair and convenient side knobs on the sides of both front seats improve usability from the rear when the seatbacks are pushed forwards.

2013 Nissan GT-R Track Pack – Features

Nissan South Africa has tailored the Track Pack for a unique South African package. This package includes exclusive carbon fibre Recaro front bucket seats with high-rigidity carbon composite shells designed by chief engineer of the GT-R project, Kazutoshi Mizuno. The GT-R’s rear seats are also removed with the Track Pack and replaced with quilted cloth, for a more track-focused interior.

The exterior is fitted with 20-inch forged aluminium RAYS wheels in black quartz chrome finish. The titanium muffler has been designed to secure high temperature strength and creep characteristics and is able to endure exhaust gas temperatures which exceed 1 000°C.

Cooling enhancements have also been derived through the use of high-class titanium alloy and the addition of cooling fins, under-cover ducts and a reduction in plate thickness in certain areas of the muffler. Also part of the Track Pack is a new carbon fibre front splitter to improve aerodynamic efficiency, as well as a new air guide to aid in cooling the brakes. The revised suspension setup is the most important aspect of the Track Pack and affords the GT-R with less body roll during high-speed cornering but still provides a comfortable ride in a city environment thanks to its aluminium dividing pistons within the shock absorbers.

2013 Nissan GT-R – Price

Model Price
Nissan GT-R Premium Edition R1 398 200
Nissan GT-R Premium Edition (Amber interior) R1 448 200
Nissan GT-R Black Edition R1 448 200
Nissan GT-R Track Pack R1 743 700

The 2013 Nissan GT-R comes standard with a 3-year/50 000 km service plan and a 3-year/ 100 000 km warranty.

2013 Toyota Auris Touring Sports details revealed

Details of the 2013 Toyota Auris Touring Sports has been released which is the first full hybrid estate car in the family/compact car segment. Being the first model in its class to offer the choice of a full hybrid powertrain, the model marks further diversification of Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive Technology. The Toyota Auris Touring Sports will not be available in South Africa.

2013 Toyota Auris Touring Sports unites form and function

Engine Capability

The 2013 Toyota Auris Touring Sports will be available in Europe with the 1.33-litre Dual VVT-i engine as well as the 1.6-litre Valvematic and the 1.4 litre D-4D diesel engine. The hybrid version uses a 1.8-litre VVT-i engine coupled with an electric motor that together produces 100kW. Acceleration to 100 km/h is achieved in 10.9 seconds, before reaching a top speed of 180 km/h. CO2 emissions for the hybrid version is rated at 86g/km.

Styling Features

The 2013 Toyota Auris Touring Sports has same the 2.6m wheelbase as the hatchback version but is 285mm longer which contributes to an increase in load space. With the seats in position, load space is at 530-litres. With the seats folded down, load capacity increases dramatically to 1 658-litres. The Auris Touring Sports offers better functionality by means of Toyota’s one-touch Easy-Flat folding rear seat system, a dual level loadspace floor, a two-way tonneau cover , a roller-type luggage net, shopping bag hooks, aluminium roof rails and a 12V power outlet in the boot.

The 2013 Toyota Auris Touring Sports still shares the same elements as the hatchback but with emphasis placed on the car’s width and low stance with the shape and arrangement of the lower grille, front bumper and fog lights created by the narrower upper grille and headlamp units.

Other features include a raked windscreen which flows into an extended roofline with aluminium roof rails and integral rear spoiler. Some versions will be available with a skyview panoramic roof which will increase light and space in the interior.
The rear-end features a revised bumper and tailgate design which includes a ‘floating’ chrome-finished spoiler.

Volvo 60 Range Updated

Volvo has announced that major changes will be made to Volvo 60 range which include the S60, V60 and XC60. The newly revised models will be showcased at the Geneva Motor Show on 5 March 2013 and can be expected in South Africa late in 2013.

New Volvo 60 Range – Features

The upgraded Volvo 60 range will feature new and improved technology such as the Sensus Connected Touch infotainment system with internet connectivity and the adaptive digital display with a TFT screen. This screen allows the driver to choose between three different themes including Elegance, Eco and Performance – which changes the colour and layout of the background.

All models in the Volvo 60 range will have redesigned front fascias. The grilles will be wider with square/rectangle headlights and the new LED running lights are mounted in the lower air intakes on the S60 and V60. The rear will feature integrated tailpipes and updated LED light pipes in the taillights.

Other new features will include heated windshields, Active High Beam Control for the headlights, paddle shifters and IntelliSafe active safety systems.

Volvo 60 Range – Updates

The Volvo S60

The S60 will feature upgrades such as new upholstery colours, new wood inlays, a new headliner and the silk metal frames around the air vents and light controls.

“We’ve really increased the S60’s road presence with a new front design. The more focused and determined-looking headlamps help create this new, expressive ‘face’. We were thinking of a wolf’s eyes when we designed them,” explains Fedde Talsma, Design Director, Exterior. He adds: “We’ve emphasised the S60’s horizontal lines at both the front and rear. Together with details such as a wider grille, daylight running lights and a new LED light guide on the tail lamps, they give the S60 a striking, squat presence. The car has a beauty that is rooted in the natural world. The clean surfaces and contours give it a very Scandinavian feel.”

An array of chassis settings will offer a dynamic driving experience. The model will come in a choice of four chassis types including Touring, Dynamic, Four-C and Lower Sport Chassis.

The Volvo V60

The new Volvo V60 features pronounced horizontal lines that emphasise the coupe-like silhouhette of the vehicle. The V60 offers versastility in the form of its
intelligent seating. The rear seats can be folded in three 40/20/40 segments with the rear load space totalling 430-litres. Two-stage integrated booster cushions provide a comfortable and safe ride ride height for children aged 3-years-old and upwards.

The Volvo XC60

The XC60 will benefit from a newly shaped hood and redesigned headlights. Black trim has been removed and the vehicle is now all one body colour.

The XC60 interior has been updated with wood inlays, a new headliner, textile B-pillars and silk metal frames around the air vents and light controls. Corner Traction Control is fitted as standard and helps avoid understeer by applying the correct amount of brake force to the inner wheels while powering the outer wheels when accelarating out of a corner. The XC60 also features all-wheel drive and optional Hill Descent Control.

Ferrari sales in 2012 best in 66 years

Ferrari has announced that 2012 was its best year in its 66 year history with global record Ferrari sales totalling a profit of 2.433 billion euro, with a trading profit of 350 million euro and net profits coming in at 244 million euro.

“We are all enormously proud of ending the year with these kinds of results despite the unfavourable economic backdrop in many European nations, and the distinctly hostile one in Italy,” said Chairman Luca di Montezemolo.

“The credit for this goes to the men and women in Ferrari, the strength of the brand, a very complete and highly innovative range, and our gradual expansion into automotive markets worldwide,” he added.

Staggering Ferrari sales records

Over the course of 2012, Ferrari sold 7 318 cars with an increase of 4.5% from 2011 where 7 195 cars were sold with revenue reaching 2.433 billion euro.

The U.S. was top of the list as the biggest market, with Ferrari sales up by 15% and exceeding the 2 000 car mark for the first time. Ferrari sales in Britain rose by 20% while China, Hong Kong and Taiwan made up the second largest market with sales up by 4% at 784 cars.

Germany grew 8.2% to 750 cars, while sales in the UK grew 20.4% to 673 cars and the Middle East and Africa continued with an increase of 4.5% with deliveries of cars rising to 556. In Italy, despite there being a 60% drop in sales, Ferrari ended the year with 318 cars delivered to dealerships.

Results delivered by brand related activities in Retail, Licensing and e-commerce which underwent reorganisation in 2012 also showed outstanding results with a 40% increase in operating margin to over 50 million euro.

2014 Range Rover gets new V6 engine

Following the sales success of the 2013 Range Rover, the 2014 Range Rover will be available with the choice of a new supercharged V6 engine that will complement the current V8 offering. Both engines are mated to an 8-speed ZF 8HP70 automatic transmission with an Intelligent Stop/Start System fitted as standard which reduces emissions and saves fuel.

New turbocharged V6 for 2014 Range Rover

The new supercharged 3.0-litre V6 engine available for the 2014 Range Rover will produce 254kW and will be offered alongside the supercharged 5.0-litre V8. Acceleration to 100km/h will take approximately 7.1 seconds with the new V6 engine.

The new engine has been developed to support a full breadth of capability including extreme off-road tilt angles of up to 45 degrees, a wading depth of 900mm and a towing capacity of up to 3 500kg.

When coupled with the high-strength, lightweight aluminium structure of the 2014 Range Rover, the new engine further enhances efficiency gains. The 2014 Range Rover weighs 318kg less than the previous generation Range Rover.

Audi RS Q3 to debut at Geneva Motor Show

The new high performance Audi RS Q3 will make its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show. The Audi RS Q3 is the first RS model to feature in the successful Q model line-up and is the fourth RS model released in 2013 alongside the RS 5 Cabriolet, RS 6 Avant and the RS 7 Sportback.

Audi RS Q3 boasts impressive performance

Engine Capability

As the first RS model in the Q series, the Audi RS Q3 is powered by a turbocharged 2.5-litre, five-cylinder petrol engine that produces 228kW between 5 200 and 6 700rpm with a maximum torque figure of 420Nm available between 1 500 and 5 200rpm.

The model is connected to a 7-speed S tronic transmission and a Quattro all wheel drive system. The Audi RS Q3 can sprint from 0-100km in 5.5 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 250km/h. Fuel consumption is rated at up to 8.8-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 206g/km. A stop-start system is fitted as standard.

Exterior Styling Features

The Audi RS Q3 comes with body accents and roof rails in matt aluminium, special door sill plates and door trim strips, a high-gloss black honeycomb front grille, RS front bumper and a Quattro emblem in the front air intake.

Other new features include a large roof spoiler, rear bumper with distinctive diffuser insert, a large elliptical tailpipe and an RS Q3 logo that accentuates the rear. The model can also be customised in either matt aluminium or black styling packages which include the flaps in the side air intakes, the trim on the diffuser and the fins on the roof spoiler.

The Audi RS Q3 is available in eight exterior colours, including the exclusive Sepang Blue pearl effect.

Interior Styling Features

The interior styling features sport seats with embossed RS Q3 logos as standard and are upholstered in black Alcantara/leather and the instrument panel features gray gauges with white scales and red pointers. The three-spoke multi-function steering wheel is finished in contrasting stitching in rock gray as well as the gear lever.

The infotainment area includes a wide range of options such as the hard-drive based navigation system and MMI Navigation Plus. The Bose surround sound system features 14 loud speakers with a power output of up to 465 watts. The Bluetooth car phone online feature together with WLAN hotspot connects the car to the Internet to bring the online services of Audi into the vehicle.

Additional RS Q3 features include an RS specific driver information system, park assist plus, and xenon plus headlights and LED tail lights which display a dark red tint mark when they are not lit.

The Audi RS Q3 can be expected in South Africa towards the end of 2013.

New Bentley Flying Spur headed for 2013 Geneva Motor Show

The new Flying Spur, Bentley’s most powerful four-door model ever, will make its global debut at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show on 5 March. According to Bentley, the Flying Spur offers ‘a new blend of effortless driveability, exquisite luxury and craftsmanship’ and comes with state-of-the-art technology.

“Bentley’s new Flying Spur is the ultimate luxury performance sedan. Our engineers have worked tirelessly to ensure that the Flying Spur is the perfect combination of power, comfort, refinement and hand-crafted quality. Fitted with the very latest technology, the new Flying Spur is equipped both for business and relaxation whilst remaining a car to enjoy from behind the wheel.” said Bentley Chairman and Chief Executive, Dr Wolfgang Schreiber.

New Bentley Flying Spur – Specifications and Features

Engine Capability

The Bentley Flying spur is fitted with a 6.0-litre twin-turbo W12 engine that is mated to a ZF eight-speed gearbox and delivers 456kW at 6000rpm with a maximum torque figure of 800Nm from 2000rpm. The Flying Spur sprints from zero to 100km/h in 4.3 seconds and has a top speed of 322km/h.

Combined fuel consumption is rated at 14.7 l/100km, with a CO2 emissions figure of 343g/km. The Flying Spur features all-wheel drive with a 40:60 rear-biased torque split for enhanced handling in all road and weather conditions.

Interior Styling Features

The all-new Bentley Flying Spur features sleek and elegant styling that includes softer and more durable seats trimmed in natural premium quality leather, available in 12 different colours and can be adjusted in 14 ways.

The cabin is finished in wood veneer and the grab handles, armrests and parts of the front console are carried over from the previous generation. The roof lining and pillars are also trimmed in natural leather, while layers of supple foam are applied to all tactile surfaces beneath the hide, harmonising the touch and feel of all areas of the cabin. The wood is cured for 72 hours and clear-lacquered to enhance its natural beauty.

Rear passengers will enjoy the Multi Media Specification with Wi Fi connectivity, wireless headphones and two 10-inch displays. The Rear Seat Entertainment suite also includes a new hand held Touch Screen Remote which controls entertainment, connectivity and how comfortable the seats should be. The audio system comprises of an eight-channel, eight-speaker system, with the 1100W Naim for Bentley available as an option.

Exterior Styling Features

The new body structure includes reinforcement to the B-posts, sills and front crossmemebers together with deformable components in the floorplan for optimal load transfer. It also has a lower and sharper appearance with new rear lights and a longer boot and a more swept side profile.

The bonnet, constructed in aluminium, includes reinforced panels and deformation elements to help improve pedestrian impact performance. The front fenders have a new wing vent with a classy Bentley ‘B’ badge and the LED daytime running lights, dipped headlights and taillights personify the front and rear profiles.

The Flying Spur also comes in a range of 17 standard exterior paint colours and a new 19-inch Classic wheel is fitted exclusively in either bright painted or diamond turned finish. The new design combines a wider range of 20-inch five spoke, 21-inch six-spoke and 21-inch ten-spoke wheels available as cost options. Drilled alloy foot pedals, a knurled sports gear lever, jewel filler cap and 21 two-piece five spoke alloy wheels in painted or polished finish complete the Mulliner suite of options.

McLaren P1 powertrain details revealed

McLaren has revealed powertrain details for its upcoming P1 supercar which will make its production debut at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show on 5 March. The P1 will be fitted with a hybrid powertrain that includes a mid-mounted 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine and an electric motor, emitting less than 200g/km of CO2.

Hybrid powertrain for McLaren P1

Together, the 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine and the electric motor, produce a power output of 674 kW with a maximum torque figure of 900Nm. CO2 emissions will be less than 200g/km on the combined cycle and will be reduced to zero in full electric mode.

The 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8 engine alone produces 542kW and 720Nm of torque and is a new, upgraded version of the familiar M838T unit. The engine block has a unique casting to incorporate the electric motor. The lightweight electric motor is unique to the P1 supercar and produces 132kW and 260Nm of torque from standstill which increases the throttle response of the P1 dramatically. The McLaren-developed ‘boost’ system, IPAS, offers 132kW instantly while the enhanced air-charging system allows for more top-end power. Power is transferred to the rear wheels via a dual-clutch 7-speed tranmission.

The P1 can be driven with either both the petrol engine and electric motor or the electric engine alone. Maximum power is possible when using both the engine and the electric motor. In electric mode, or E-mode, the P1 can travel for distances of more than 10km with zero tailpipe emissions, which is perfect for short urban runs. When the battery is empty, the petrol engine automatically takes over and recharges the battery.

Power is enhanced with two steering wheel mounted buttons that activate the Drag Reduction System (DRS) and the Instant Power Assist System (IPAS). The DRS reduces drag on the rear wing which helps increase speed. IPAS is designed to deliver power rapidly using a lightweight, high-density battery pack. The P1 is also equipped with a plug-in charger that is able to charge the battery in two hours.

Further detsails will be made avaialble when the McLaren P1 makes its production debut at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show on 5 March.

Peugeot 208 Hybrid FE concept announced for Geneva

Peugeot has joined forces with Total with the objective of improving vehicle energy performance by developing a gas concept car called the Peugeot 208 HYbrid FE that provides an enhanced driving experience with a significant reduction in CO2 emissions. The Peugeot 208 HYbrid FE will be showcased at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show.

Peugeot 208 HYbrid FE – Features

The Peugeot 208 HYbrid FE is fitted with a 1.0-litre VTi three-cylinder petrol engine, a Electronic Gearbox Control (EGC) and an electric motor that produces 51kW. Acceleration from zero to 100km/h is achieved in 8 seconds with CO2 emissions of only 49g/km.

Both Peugeot and Total have built the 208 HYbrid FE and designed it to capitalise on the research conducted and produce better aerodynamics, weight savings and drivetrains. The Peugeot 208 HYbrid FE is expected to shed up to 200kg in weight and will also feature special tyres and wheels that will contribute to reducing rolling resistance.

Peugeot and Total have worked together since 1995 to reduce fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and Total Cost of Ownership (TCO). Total and several of its entities are actively involved alongside Peugeot in numerous R&D projects to develop environmentally friendly vehicles.

More details for the Peugeot 208 HYbrid FE will be made available at the Geneva Motor Show.

Suzuki Grand Vitara 2.4 Summit Review

Suzuki is a brand better known for its range of bikes and small city cars like the Swift. Recently, the Japanese company face-lifted its Suzuki Grand Vitara.

Suzuki Grand Vitara 2.4 Summit Review by David Taylor

Despite the big name, the Suzuki Grand Vitara when compared to its rivals is a medium SUV. With an all-new redesigned face, the vehicle gains some brownie points in the looks department. It wasn’t exactly the ugliest of offroaders, but this new midlife nip-and-tuck has turned it into quite a looker.

Under the hood of the Suzuki Grand Vitara

The engine is a 2.4-litre naturally-aspirated petrol motor with 122kW and 225Nm. It’s not the fastest thing around but there’s enough power for most types of driving. Power is delivered to all four wheels through a five-speed gearbox and it’s here where I picked up my first gripe. Perhaps I’ve been spoilt with too many six-speeders, but the five-speed unit feels a little long, which means you’re going to be changing down a gear when it comes to overtaking on the open road. A close-range six-speed will work wonders here and I can’t help but think it’ll aid the fuel consumption too.

The Suzuki Grand Vitara off-road capability

If you think that the Suzuki Grand Vitara is ‘just another one of those mommy offroaders that can’t actually go offroad’, then think again. Admittedly I wasn’t aware of the Grand Vitara’s offroad credentials, but after I noticed the dashboard drivetrain selection switch, I had to try it out. I headed for the thickest dunes, where I promptly got stuck. Once I’d engaged low-range/diff locks, the Grand Vitara pulled itself out with ease. It’s deceptively capable offroad and if you’re after a city slicker that can be relied upon to go anywhere, this is your car.

Interior features

Interiors are where Suzuki excels itself and the Grand Vitara is no exception. There’s a premium and well-built feel to the dashboard and while there are no fancy LCD screens to dominate the middle cluster, the ergonomics are near perfect. Everything you need is within reach. However, unlike other Suzuki models, I was surprised to see the lack of a USB audio input.

The ‘Summit’ specification gives you cruise control, leather seats, keyless go, automatic HID headlights, fog lamps, traction control as well as attractive 18-inch wheels for around R60,000 above the ‘Dune’ derivative. The back seats fold forward not once, but twice giving you a massive boot, which enables things like furniture to be carried with ease. Keep the rear seats down and passengers will enjoy plenty of legroom.

Suzuki Grand Vitara 2.4 Summit – Conclusion

The Suzuki Grand Vitara, like most of Suzuki’s range of passenger cars, is underrated. Not only is it a great offroad vehicle, perfect for those trips to the middle of nowhere, but it’s also quite at home sitting in bumper-to-bumper traffic. It’s comfortable, well appointed and has most of the creature comforts you need. On the open road, it’s an absolute pleasure to drive, and is one of the few cars where you don’t go numb after an hour in the same position. It is well priced too, which I think is a big feather in its cap.

Suzuki Grand Vitara – Price

Suzuki Grand Vitara 2.4 Summit price as tested: R362 900

  • Why you should: Surprisingly capable off-roader, practical, excellent ride, value for money offering.
  • Why you shouldn’t: Engine is a little thirsty considering its size. No diesel option.
  • It would be better if: There was USB connectivity, a 6-speed gearbox and a diesel engine option.
  • View the Suzuki Grand Vitara: New / Used
  • Competitors worth checking out: Toyota Rav4, Nissan X-Trail, Subaru Forester, Chevrolet Captiva