Chevrolet Cruze TD debuts at Chicago Auto Show

Chevrolet has unveiled a Cruze diesel variant, the Cruze TD, at the Chicago Auto Show. According to General Motors, the Chevrolet Cruze TD is the cleanest diesel passenger car engine they have ever produced. The new diesel model will be introduced to the U.S. and Canadian markets and will not be available in South Africa.

Chevrolet Cruze TD is a frugal runner

Engine Capability

The Chevrolet Cruze TD is fitted with a 2.0 litre turbo diesel engine that produces 110kW and 350Nm of torque. This power translates into 0-100km/h in a time of 8.6 seconds. Based on a GM testing, the Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel fuel consumption is rated at 5.6 litres/100km. The Cruze TD also comes with a six speed automatic transmission.

“Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel fills an important role in Chevrolet’s diverse four-cylinder lineup, and is primed to win over diesel devotees and compact car buyers with its performance, torque and fuel economy,” said Chris Perry, Chevrolet vice president of marketing. He added “We leveraged engineering expertise from around the globe to develop a world-class, low-emissions engine to give U.S. and Canadian customers a car that’s both fun to drive and practical at the pump.”

Design Features

The Chevrolet Cruze TD features four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes and is fitted with 17-inch alloy wheels, ultra-low-rolling resistance all-season tyres, rear spoiler and a Aero Performance Package and leather-appointed seating.

Other standard features include Chevrolet’s infotainment system MyLink, a two-year maintenance plan, and a five-year 100,000 mile powertrain warranty

2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray convertible to make Geneva debut

Chevrolet has announced that the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray convertible will make its international debut at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show which takes place on 5 March. The Corvette Stingray convertible will combine the same technology, design and performance as the coupe variant which was unveiled at the Detroit Motor Show in January this year.

“It’s fitting to introduce the new Stingray convertible on the global stage at Geneva because Corvette is the face of Chevrolet the world over,” said Susan Docherty, president and managing director of Chevrolet and Cadillac Europe. “It is an icon that has long been recognized and admired even in countries where it’s never officially been offered.”

2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray convertible to be auctioned for charity

Chevrolet will auction the first retail production model of the Corvette Stingray convertible at the Barret-Jackson Palm Beach collector car auction which will benefit the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute. The Barret-Jackson auction will be held on 4-6 April 2013 at the South Florida Fairgrounds in Palm Beach.

“Every Corvette is designed at the outset as an open car,” said Tadge Juechter, Corvette chief engineer. “The new Stingray is no different, with the coupe and convertible designed to excel in any situation – be it your daily commute, a drive across the continent, or charging through twisting back roads.”

Further details of the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray convertible will be made available when the Geneva Motor Show kicks off on 5 March 2013.

*Please note the image is a rendering and may differ from the actual vehicle.

Volvo V40 Cross Country set for launch in South Africa

The Volvo V40 Cross Country is due for launch in South Africa this month. The Volvo V40 Cross Country combines ‘capable ruggedness’ and ‘expressive elegance’ to establish itself in the premium C-segment. Here is what you can expect from the Volvo V40 Cross Country when it arrives in South Africa this month.

Volvo V40 Cross Country – Features

Engine Capability

The Volvo V40 Cross Country’s performance is measured by a five cylinder 2.5 litre T5 engine that has a power output of 187kW and a torque figure of 400Nm including 40Nm overboost delivered during acceleration. Acceleration to 0-100km/h takes 6.5 seconds. Combined fuel consumption is 7.8 l/100 km and the T5 version comes with a six-speed automatic gearbox.

The T4 is a 1.6 litre GDTi engine that produces 132kW with a maximum torque figure of 270Nm including 30Nm overboost. Fuel consumption is rated at 5.5 l/100km/h with a CO2 emissions figure of 129g/km. The T4 is available in combination with the automatic six-speed Powershift transmission or a six-speed manual gearbox.

Diesel options include a five cylinder 2.0-litre D4 turbodiesel which has been optimised for fuel efficient driving pleasure and delivers 130kW and has a maximum torque figure of 400Nm. This power translates into 0-100km/h in 8.3 seconds with the automatic gearbox. This model consumes 5.2 l/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 137g/km with the automatic gearbox. .

In addition there is the 2.0-litre D3 that produces 110kW and 350 Nm of torque. Both these turbodiesels are available with a six-speed automatic transmission.

Exterior Styling Features

The Volvo V40 Cross Country is enhanced with sleek design details such as the dark front with a contrasting bumper, sculpted contrasting sills, honeycomb mesh grille and upright DRL lights. The rear bumper is integrated with a skid plate and the wheels are the same size as the Volvo V70, including rims up to 19-inches in size.

Other exterior details include an anodized, black high-gloss frame around the greenhouse, black rear-view mirror housings and sleek rails that float over the roof.

“The Volvo V40 Cross Country retains its V40 stylishness by integrating the ruggedness in the design with meticulous attention to detail. It has en extrovert, expressive character that promises the open-minded adventurer a great time,” says Simon Lamarre, exterior design manager for the V40 Cross Country.

Interior Styling Features

Inside, the Raw Copper exterior launch colour is echoed by contrasting stitching which can be further emphasised by choosing the Copper Dawn centre stack inlay. The leather upholstery comes in five different versions including the Espresso Brown accent colour.

Further features for the Volvo V40 Cross Country include two-piece 40/60 folding rear seat backrests and a load compartment that can be equipped with a practical hanging load net. A soft safety net is optional and a steel version is available as an accessory. The front passenger seat can be folded forward to create even more space. In addition to the two permanent hooks, the extra floor integrates hooks for bags. Between the upper and lower floors there is a concealed storage area.

Lighting is designed to give a theatre lighting feel and LED lamps are used to light up strategic areas. For the driver’s enjoyment, the red to blue setting adapts the light to the interior temperature. There are seven other mood themes to choose from and the front and rear reading lights can be dimmed.

The expansive storage compartments include a storage compartment below the armrest suitable for CDs and other small items also the accessory range which includes a ‘Cargo Mat Organiser’ that keeps smaller items secure and in order, as well as a ‘Load Organiser’ that includes a load compartment divider, a load belt and two floor rails.

Prices for the Volvo V40 Cross Country will be announced at launch.

Most popular news articles for January 2013

January 2013 was a busy month for the automotive industry, both locally and internationally, with various new models introduced in South Africa and a wide range of new and exciting vehicles shown at the Detroit Auto Show. Here are the top five most popular news articles for the month of January.

1. Meet the new Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG 4MATIC, which comes in either sedan or station wagon form, now features a redesigned, performance-orientated AMG all-wheel drive system as standard. The E63 AMG 4MATIC is fitted with a powerful 5.5-litre AMG V8 engine that develops 410kW and 720Nm of torque while the S Model will deliver 430kW and 800Nm of torque. Acceleration to 100km/h is achieved in under 3.5 seconds before reaching an electronically limited top speed of 299km/h. The E63 AMG 4MATIC makes use of an AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission. There is no indication whether the E63 AMG 4MATIC will be available in South Africa.

2. Toyota Land Cruiser 70 Series gets upgrade

Toyota’s 70 Series Land Cruiser has received a number of upgrades for 2013 and now includes a new Double Cab version and all models in the range now feature Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as standard. A 96kW/285Nm 4.2-litre diesel engine is available across the range while the Land Cruiser 79 Single Cab and Double Cab are powered by a 4.0-litre petrol engine that produces 170kW and 360Nm of torque. All models feature differential lock, a 5-speed manual transmission and a four-wheel drive system.

3. Lexus reveals IS sedan ahead of Detroit Motor Show debut

The Lexus IS sedan made its debut at the Detroit Auto Show in January and includes the IS 250, IS 350 and the IS 300h hybrid model. F SPORT models are also available across the range. Drawing inspiration from the LF-CC concept, the IS sedan features Lexus’ new spindle grille design while the F SPORT models feature an exclusive grille and bumper design.

4. South Africa’s most popular new cars for 2012

The year of 2012 was an exciting one for the South African automotive industry. In terms of the most popular vehicles for the year, the Volkswagen Polo Vivo came out on top as South Africa’s best selling new car for 2012. The Toyota Hilux bakkie was South Africa’s best selling bakkie for 2012 with the Volkswagen Polo claiming third place.

5. Peugeot reveals 2008 Urban Crossover

The Peugeot 2008 Crossover can be expected in South Africa early in 2014 and was developed simultaneously in France, China and Brazil. Combining hatchback and SUV elements, the 2008 Urban Crossover features 17-inch ‘Diamond’ wheels with a matt finish while the bumpers, body sills, front and rear body protection and side mouldings offer protection from abrasions. Powertrain details have not been confirmed but expect the 2008 Urban Crossover to be powered by an e-HDI Diesel engine and a new 3-cylinder petrol engine with a CO2 emissions figure of only 99g/km.

Mercedes-Benz CLA Edition 1 launched

The Mercedes-Benz CLA Edition 1 has been launched for the European market and it will only be available for 12 months. Four Edition 1 models are available and these include the CLA 180, CLA 200, CLA 250 and the CLA 220 CDI.

Mercedes-Benz CLA Edition 1 is big on style

The four-door coupe comes with a unique paintjob and is offered in either mountain grey, cosmos black, night black, cirrus white or designo polar silver magno. The diamond radiator grille boasts a black fin and chrome inserts.

The Mercedes-Benz CLA Edition 1 comes fitted with AMG components such as front and rear aprons as well as side sill panels in combination with the black painted multi-spoke alloy wheels.

Other special equipment include bi-xenon headlamps, lowered sports suspension, sports seats upholstered in leather and black microfibre DINAMICA with yellow stitching and ARTICO man-made leather with yellow stitching for the instrument panel and beltlines. The 3-spoke multi-function sports steering wheel is finished in Nappa leather with a flattened bottom section with perforations in the grip area.

Power is rated between 90kW and 125kW with torque varying between 200Nm and 350Nm depending on the model. The Mercedes-Benz CLA Edition 1 will not be sold in South Africa.

Geely MK 1.5 launches R99 990 challenge

Geely South Africa has informally challenged car manufacturers to beat its Geely MK 1.5 sedan which is now offered for R99 990. In 1999 a challenge was set to offer a budget car for R9 990 and car manufacturers stripped their entry-level cars and offered them as new models. Geely now offers the well-specced 1.5 MK sedan, without compromising features.

Geely MK sedan offers affordability

“It is an informal, light-hearted challenge from us to other manufacturers to offer the same great value for money vehicles we do – in terms of specification, size and price,” says Henri Meistre, Managing Director of Geely South Africa.

Geely will not be ordering more of its popular MK series before the end of the year and will be running out the current model. “We are expecting the MK’s hatchback replacement late this year,” says Meistre. “The new model replacing it will be a ‘global’ car, designed by Italy’s Giugiaro. It promises higher quality and equipment levels, putting it into a more upmarket segment.”

Standard Features

The Geely MK 1.5 sedan comes standard 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.

Geely MK 1.5 Sedan – Price

Geely MK 1.5 Sedan – R99 990

BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo shown at 2013 Chicago Auto Show

BMW unveiled the new 2014 Gran Turismo at the 2013 Chicago Auto Show. The model will be available in a range of standard trim lines, including the Sport Line, Luxury Line, Modern Line, and M Sport. The BMW 3-Series Gran Turismo can be expected in South Africa later in 2013.

BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo offers four engines

The BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo will come with a choice of three petrol engines and one diesel engine. The petrol units include a 135kW 2.0-litre engine for the 320i, a 180kW 2.0-litre for the 328i and a 225kW 3.0-litre, six-cylinder engine. The diesel option is a 2.0-litre unit that develops 135kW and 308Nm of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard and an 8-speed automatic transmission will be available as an option.

3 Series GT boasts sporty styling

The BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo features four doors with frameless windows and a gently falling roofline with a large tailgate. The front end is detailed with a powerful BMW kidney grille and modified front apron with large air intakes below the headlights underlining the car’s sporting character. The model also sports striking twin headlights with corona rings.

When specified, Xenon headlights and LED accent lights form a visual unit with slightly forward slanting kidneys that reinforce the sense of both width and presence. The Gran Turismo is 4284mm long, and is 200mm longer than the 3-Series Touring and has a 110mm longer wheelbase. The rendered coupe-style roofline slopes down the rear stretch creating extra interior space.

The Gran Turismo is the brands first-ever model to sport an active rear spoiler. All models of the Grand Turismo are available with a range of 18-inch or 19-inch alloy wheels, unique to each trim line. For stopping power, the Gran Turismo relies on lightweight floating caliper brakes with large inner-vented discs, and front brake calipers made from aluminium.

Interior Styling Features

The five-seat Gran Turismo is boosted by a 59mm higher seating position and 70mm more rear legroom. A 40/20/40 split/folding rear seat comes as standard and a 520-litre boot capacity offers ample storage space.

Other features include latest-generation multi-colour Head-Up Display, which displays the speed/speed limit along with navigation instructions and warning messages, using Blind Spot and Lane Departure Warning systems.

The driver focused layout ensures optimum access to all driving functions on the crystal clear circular instrument cluster with a black-panel display and a freestanding iDrive monitor. The flat screen design gives a sense of functional elegance. Optional folding armrests between the front seats guarantee the cabin’s usability and comfort. Customers can also choose from three additional equipment lines plus M Sport, which all adds to the car’s overall look.

BMW 3 Series GT Safety Features

Safety features include advanced light technology such as anti dazzle High Beam Assistant, optional Adaptive Xenon Headlights, Active Cruise Control and Go function.

In addition to the rear view camera and Park Distance Control is the Surround View function with side and top view and BMW Assist eCall with enhanced Automatic Collision Notification with automatic vehicle location.

Expect to see the BMW 3-Series Gran Turismo in South Africa in the middle of 2013.

Kia Cross GT Hybrid Concept at 2013 Chicago Auto Show

Kia unveiled its new Kia Cross GT Hybrid Concept at the 2013 Chicago Auto Show. The Kia Cross GT draws inspiration from the original GT concept and combines it with a luxury crossover layout.

Peter Schreyer, Kia Motors Corporation president and global chief of design noted “The debut of the GT in 2011 heralded a new frontier for Kia, both from a design and a business perspective.”

He added, “It beautifully illustrated to the world that the brand was ready to explore the possibility of perhaps one day offering a full-size rear-drive luxury saloon. The Kia Cross GT, with its raised stance and large cargo area, allows us to envision the GT in the form of a full-size luxury crossover.”

Kia Cross GT Concept hints at future design

Engine Capability

The Kia Cross GT concept is fitted with a 3.8 litre V6 hybrid engine, an 8 speed automatic transmission and torque vectoring all-wheel drive. The V6 is backed by a pancake shaped electric motor and when the two are combined, they generate 298kW of power with a maximum torque figure of 678Nm.

Exterior Styling Features

The Kia Cross GT is designed with a lower roofline, with a 122-inch wheelbase. The design is enhanced by the dual rear hinged doors and the rear bucket seats allow for easier access and views of the Cross GT’s premium textures and materials.

Access to the cargo compartment is made possible by a clam shell design that incorporates a traditional glass hatch and a tailgate. Advanced LED technology creates a strong and unique lighting identity that highlights Kia’s signature grille.

Interior Styling Features

Inside, the Kia Cross GT features a multi-paneled sky light with hexagonal glass inserts that enhance the car’s premium design aesthetic. The four bucket seats are covered in Almond-Terra coloured leather and anchored to the central tunnel. Inspired by fine equestrian saddles, the seats feature contrasting stitching and are tanned with vegetable oil using natural dyes. The instrument panel is made of re-harvested American Walnut with 100% eco-friendly renewable wool used throughout the cabin.

Sub-systems include HVAC, telematics and entertainment accessed via an easy to use touchscreen and central mouse control technology that enables the driver to keep their hands on the wheel at all times.

Rear passengers have the option to use the internet and infotainment through flat panel screens mounted to the headrests of the front seats. The storage compartment is incorporated beneath the flat load in the cargo area behind the rear seats.

2014 Nissan 370Z NISMO shown at Chicago Auto Show

Joining the new Juke NISMO in Nissan showrooms later this year is the 2014 Nissan 370Z NISMO which was previewed at the 2013 Chicago Auto Show. The new 2014 Nissan 370Z NISMO features a number of exterior and interior enhancements to further the vehicles appeal.

2014 Nissan 370Z NISMO kitted out for spirited driving

Engine Capability

The 370Z NISMO’s performance is ensured by an advanced Nissan Front Midship (FM) platform, refined 4-wheel independent suspension and a 3.7 litre DOHC V6 engine with Variable Valve Event and Lift Control (VVEL) rated at 261kW at 7400rpm with a maximum torque figure of 374Nm available at 5200rpm. Acceleration is optimised through the use of an exclusive H-configured exhaust system design and muffler tuning, along with ECM (Engine Control Module) calibration. This engine is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission with Nissan’s SynchroRev Match synchronised downshift rev matching system.

Exterior Styling Features

The exterior features new dark gray colouring on the front and rear fascias, lower side sills, side mirrors and NISMO rear spoiler with each element (except side sills) featuring NISMO-style red pinstripe accents. The Solid Red replaces the previous Magma Red as one of four 370Z NISMO exterior colour choices.

Additional features include unique super lightweight 19-inch RAYS forged aluminum-alloy wheels with a Gun Metallic finish. An extended front nose design and a fully integrated chin spoiler provide a sense of dynamic movement while enhancing airflow and down-force for enhanced aerodynamic performance.

Interior Styling Features

The inside of the 370Z NISMO sports a new steering wheel wrapped in Alacantara, leather wrapped gear lever, aluminium-trimmed pedals and a red NISMO tachometer.

Sporty seats are covered in woven cloth with NISMO logos and feature 8-way driver’s/4 way passenger manual adjustments and adjustable front seat Active Head Restraints. Nissan Intelligent Key with Push Button start, power windows with one touch auto up/down feature, power door locks with auto lock feature and automatic climate control all come as standard.

Other interior features include an AM/FM/CD/AUX 4-speaker audio system, a Bose Package featuring an in-dash 6-CD changer, six speakers, two subwoofers, Bluetooth Hands-Free Phone System, auto-dimming inside mirror and a HomeLink Universal Transceiver.

“The great thing about the 370Z NISMO, like the JUKE NISMO, is that there is solid functionality behind every element, race-inspired but ready for the street and with pure NISMO style.” said Pierre Loing, Vice President, Product and Advanced Planning and Strategy, Nissan America.

Along with the 2014 Nissan 370Z NISMO, the 370Z is also available as a 370Z Coupe and 370Z Roadster.

Citroen TECHNOSPACE concept in Geneva

The Citroen TECHNOSPACE concept will be showcased at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show which will point to the brand’s future Multi Purpose Vehicle (MPV) that will be released in the second half of 2013. The concept will demonstrate Citroen’s ‘Créative Technologie’ and will solidify Citroen’s presence in the compact MPV segment.

Citroen TECHNOSPACE Concept points to future MPV

The Citroen TECHNOSPACE Concept will exhibit a record CO2 emissions level of only 98g/km thanks to the new Efficient Modular Platform 2 (EMP2) which features efficient architecture and weight reductions. Numerous technologies will be incorporated including a full-touch driving interface with a high definition 12-inch panoramic screen.

The Citroen TECHNOSPACE concept is 4.43m in length, 1.83m wide and stands 1.61m tall with standard-setting interior space and class-leading boot capacity of 537-litres. The design is strong and expressive with dynamic lines and high-tech headlamps which are complemented with 3D-effect tail lights inspired by the latest Citroen concept cars.

The Citroen TECHNOSPACE concept will be unveiled on 5 March 2013 at the Geneva Motor Show.