Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake Revealed

Details of the new Mercedes-Benz  CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake have been officially revealed. The CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake combines high performance with style and practicality and will be available as the standard CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake and the top-end CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake Edition 1 model.

Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake is a wagon of note

Engine Capability

Both Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake models will be fitted with an AMG 5.5-litre twin turbo engine. In the standard CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake, the engine will produce 386kW and 700Nm of torque. The CLS 63 Shooting Brake will accelerate to 100km/h in only 4.4 seconds with an electronically limited top speed of 250km/h. Fuel consumption is rated at 10.1-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 235g/km.

The CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake Edition 1 boasts a power output of 410kW with 800Nm of torque and will accelerate to 100km/h in 4.3 seconds and also reach an electronically limited top speed of 250km/h. Fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are identical to the standard model. Both models make use of an AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT seven-speed transmission that is equipped with four individual transmission modes.

Suspension and Braking Features

The Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake makes use of AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension with steel suspension struts on the front axle and air suspension struts on the rear axle. An electronically controlled damping system automatically adjusts suspension according to driving conditions and the driver is also able to manually switch between three suspension modes namely ‘Comfort, ‘Sport’ and ‘Sport Plus’.

The CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake is fitted with standard 360mm ventilated and perforated brakes discs for high performance braking. The AMG ceramic high-performance braking system will be available as an option. The CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake also features 19-inch titanium grey-painted, high sheen AMG light-alloy wheels with a triple spoke design.

Interior and Exterior Styling

The exterior design is both elegant and sporty and features an aggressive AMG front apron with the cross strut finished in gloss black, an AMG radiator grille and an AMG-specific design for the bonnet. The rear end is defined with an AMG-specific rear apron and AMG sports exhaust system with twin chrome tailpipes. LED headlamps including Intelligent Light System and adaptive Highbeam Assist are fitted as standard on both models.

The interior is of a high standard and features AMG sports seats in Nappa leather and AMG black piano lacquer trim. The AMG instrument cluster offers various functions for the driver including RACETIMER and an AMG start-up screen. The rear storage compartment can accommodate up to 1 550 litres of luggage with the rear seats folded down and features an American cherry wood luggage floor with aluminium rails.

The Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake will be available in South Africa in the first quarter of 2013.

New Opel Adam to debut at Paris Motor Show

The funky new Opel ADAM urban car is set to make its world premiere at the Paris Motor Show in September this year. The small A-segment Opel ADAM features bold design features along with unique trim options and a new infotainment system.

New Opel ADAM – Specifications and Features

Engine Capability

The new Opel ADAM will be initially available in three petrol variants including a 1.2-litre unit offering 51kW and 70hp, a 1.4-litre unit offering 64kW with 87hp and a 1.4-litre unit offering 74kW with 100hp. All variants will be combined with a five-speed manual transmission and will be available with an ecoFlex technology pack that includes Start/Stop technology.

Trim Options

The new Opel ADAM introduces a new trim approach where customers can choose from three individualised trim moods or worlds. The three trim moods or worlds include JAM which is unconventional, fashionable and colourful. GLAM is more elegant, refined and sophisticated and SLAM is best suited to energetic and sporty attitudes. All three moods will be offered with a wide range of exterior colours, interior colours, three roof colours, decors and various headliners including an LED lit “starlight” roof trim.

Exterior and Interior Styling

The new Opel ADAM takes on a bold and retro-based design philosophy where “sculptural artistry meets German precision”. The ‘floating’ roof design adds to the unique styling with a two-tone colour combination. The wide front grille features a wing-shaped chrome bar and the blade shape defines the lower doors. The ‘shock wave’ evident around the door handles is inspired by the Opel Astra GTC. LED technology will also be available for the headlamps and taillights.

The interior is surprisingly spacious with seating for four people and features an infotainment system that offers smartphone connectivity for Apple iOS software as well as Android operating systems. Content is displayed via a 7-inch high-resolution, full colour touch screen that offers various control functions using five easy-to-navigate menus. The ADAM also comes with Bluetooth and USB connectivity.

Safety Features

All new Opel ADAM models are fitted with Electric Power Steering (EPS) and Electronic Stability Program (ESP) as standard including Hill Start Assist. The ADAM also makes use of Advanced Park Assist (APA II). Front, side and head curtain airbags are also included along with Dual Seat Belt Pre-tensioners for the front seats. ISOFIX child seat mounts are to be found on the foldable rear seat.

The new Opel ADAM will be available from January 2013, however it is unclear if or when the ADAM will reach South Africa.

New Hyundai i30 hatchback in South Africa

The new Hyundai i30 hatchback is now available in South Africa and incorporates Hyundai’s ‘fluidic sculpture’ styling philosophy along with a fresh interior. The new Hyundai i30 is available in two variants, the 1.6 GLS and the 1.8 GLS.

New Hyundai i30 packed with features and value

Engine Capability

The new Hyundai i30 1.6 GLS is offered with the choice of a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. The 1.6-litre, four-cylinder petrol variant produces 95kW of power and 157Nm of torque. Fuel consumption is rated at 6.4-litres/100km for the manual 1.6 GLS and 6.8-litres/100km for the automatic.

The 1.8 GLS is only available with a six-speed manual transmission and produces 110kW of power with 178Nm of torque. Fuel consumption for this model is rated at 6.5-litres/100km. Both variants feature Continuous Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) which optimises performance and economy.

Exterior and Interior Styling

The new Hyundai i30 follows Hyundai’s ‘fluidic sculpture’ design philosophy with its flowing lines and pronounced front-end with hexagonal shaped grille. The 1.6 GLS will make use of 16-inch alloy wheels while the 1.8 GLS will exhibit the larger 17-inch alloys.

On the inside, the 1.6 GLS will feature cloth upholstery as standard while the 1.8 GLS features black partial leather upholstery. A high resolution TFT Supervision cluster provides essential information. Dual-zone climate control is also included along with a four-spoke steering wheel with audio, cruise control and Bluetooth controls at your finger tips. Both models are equipped with a four-speaker sound system with radio/CD player and iPod, Auxiliary, USB and MP3 compatibility. Luggage space for the i30 has increased by 10% and offers 378-litres of space.

Safety Features

The new Hyundai i30 has a five-star Euro NCAP rating and is available with the following safety features,

  • Electronic Stability Programme (ESP),
  • Anti-lock Braking System (ABS),
  • Vehicle Stability Management (VSM),
  • Emergency Stop Signal,
  • 6 airbags including front, side and curtain,
  • Front and rear fog lights.

The new Hyundai i30 comes with a 5 year / 150 000 km warranty, 5 year / 150 000 km roadside assistance and a service plan for 5 years and 90 000 km.

BMW ActiveHybrid 3 details revealed

Details of the new BMW ActiveHybrid 3 that will be available in South Africa towards the end of 2012 has been revealed. The BMW ActiveHybrid 3 combines a combustion engine with an electric drive system to deliver performance and efficient fuel consumption.

BMW ActiveHybrid 3 features a powerful and efficient drivetrain

The BMW ActiveHybrid 3 is powered by a 3.0-litre TwinPower engine that produces 225kW and 400Nm and is coupled with a 40kW electric motor using a high-voltage lithium-ion battery. The ActiveHybrid 3 uses an eight-speed automatic hybrid transmission with intelligent energy management to accomplish 5.9-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions rating of 139g/km. The ActiveHybrid 3 will accelerate to 100km/h in 5.3 seconds and reach a top speed of 250km/h. In full electric mode the ActiveHybrid 3 can reach 75km/h with a range of up to four kilometres.

BMW ActiveHybrid 3 combines elegance and sports styling

The exterior styling draws inspiration from the BMW 3-series sedan with an elegant and sporty appeal. Model lettering can be found on the C-pillars and on the rear-end that’s accented with L-shaped LED lights and matt chrome exhaust tailpipes while the satin-finish window surrounds and the BMW Individual High-gloss Shadow completes the ActiveHybrid 3’s exterior styling. 18-inch Streamline light-alloy wheels are also available for this model.

The interior design is spacious featuring a driver-focused cockpit design with the instrument cluster housing a 6.5cm screen for functional display. The navigation system Professional will be available as an option. Luggage capacity is at 390-litres.

BMW ActiveHybrid 3 safety features

Passenger safety features include front, side and curtain airbags, three-point inertia safety belts, front seat belt force limiters, active head restraints and ISOFIX child seat mountings in the rear seat.

Driving stability programs include Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Brake Drying function, Fading Compensation and Start-Off Assistant.

More details will be made available closer to launch.

New Renault Clio gets revised styling

Renault has released details of the fourth-generation Renault Clio that is due to make its debut at the Paris Auto Show in September 2012 and is expected to be available in South Africa in the first quarter of 2013. The new Renault Clio exhibits drastic styling revision compared to its predecessors along with new efficient engine options.

New Renault Clio fitted with fuel efficient engine

Engine Capability

The new Renault Clio will be the first Renault model to feature an all-new three-cylinder turbocharged Energy TCe 90 petrol engine. The 899cc TCe 90 engine will come with Stop&Start and has the same performance credentials of a naturally aspirated 1.4-litre engine. The TCe90 will produce 67kW at 5 000rpm with a maximum torque figure of 135Nm at 2 500rpm. The engine displays a frugal fuel consumption figure of 4.3-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions rating of only 99g/km.

The diesel Energy dCi 90 engine, also with Stop&Start, is a four-cylinder 1.5-litre unit that is capable of producing 67kW at 4 000rpm with a maximum torque figure of 220Nm from 1 750rpm. This engine exhibits a fuel consumption figure of 3.2-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 83g/km.

A 1.2-litre TCe engine is also currently in development and will produce 90kW of power and 190Nm of torque.

Exterior and Interior Styling

The new Renault Clio displays a radical makeover with bold lines and a distinct sporty touch to its styling. The front end is defined by the large Renault logo set against a gloss black background. The large headlights with chrome detailing and LED daytime running lights further enhance its look. The five-door Clio also features integrated rear door handles. Ride height has been lowered and the Clio exhibits wider tracks and fuller looking wheel arches that give it a sturdier presence compared to its predecessors.

The interior is matched with a unique dashboard taking the shape of an aircraft wing with a multimedia system positioned on the centre console. The Clio also makes use of a digital speedometer while chrome and gloss-black trim complete a comfortable interior. The Renault R-Link with an 18-inch touch screen connected to the vehicle systems will provide Internet connectivity with a homepage that can be personalised to provide access to essential functions such as the eco-driving function, Driving eco², which analyses driving techniques and offers advice to reduce fuel consumption. All models will also be fitted with Bluetooth radios and Renault Bass Reflex sound systems.

A wide range of optional extras will also be available for personalisation purposes. More details for new Renault Clio will be available closer to launch.

Infiniti EX Compact SUV in South Africa

Luxury car brand Infiniti has landed in South Africa and currently offers five models to the South African car market. The EX is Infiniti’s compact performance SUV that incorporates cross-coupe styling with notable safety technology and high performance engine capability.

Infiniti EX Compact SUV – Specifications and Features

Engine Capability

The Infiniti EX is available in both petrol and diesel variants. The petrol range comprises the EX37 GT and the EX GT Premium models which feature a 3.7-litre V6 engine that produces 235kW at 7 000rpm with a torque figure of 360Nm at 5 200rpm. The petrol version is capable of 100km/h in 6.4 seconds with a top speed of 240km/h. Fuel consumption is rated at 11.3 litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 288g/km.

The diesel option is available as the EX30d across three models namely the EX, EX GT and the EX GT Premium and is fitted with a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 diesel unit. Power is rated at 175kW available at 3 750rpm with a maximum torque figure of 550Nm at 1 750rpm. The EX30d will accelerate to 100km/h in 7.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 221km/h. Fuel consumption is rated at 8.5-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 224g/km. While on the open road, fuel consumption will drop to 7.2-litres/100km with a cruising range of 1100km.

Both the petrol and diesel engines are coupled with a seven-speed automatic transmission with Drive Sport (DS) mode.

Exterior and Interior Styling

The styling of the EX SUV takes on distinct coupe styling seen in the long bonnet and tapering roofline. The signature double-arch grille complements the xenon headlights finished with chrome trim. LED tail-lights and an integrated spoiler define the rear end. The low roofline and soft body contours complete the EX’s styling.

The interior is luxurious and fitted with quality fittings. Leather upholstery is fitted as standard on the GT and GT Premium models. Controls have been carefully placed around the driver for maximum comfort. Split-folding rear seats offer ample storage space as well as an additional 45-litre under-floor storage compartment.

Safety Features

Standard safety features across the EX range include ABS brakes with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist System (BAS), Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) and six airbags. ISOFIX child seat mountings and active head rests are also included.

The EX30d GT Premium models include Lane Departure Prevention (LDP), Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC) with Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA), Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and Infiniti’s Around View Monitor (AVM).

Infiniti EX Compact SUV Price

Infiniti EX30d – Standard R595 000
Infiniti EX37 GT R626 000
Infiniti EX30d GT R635 870
Infiniti EX37 GT Premium R667 406
Infiniti EX30d GT Premium R677 276

All models include a 5-year/100 000km maintenance plan and a 3-year/100 000km warranty with roadside assistance as standard.

2013 Ford Focus ST coming to South Africa

Ford South Africa has officially announced that its performance enhanced 2013 Ford Focus ST will be available in South Africa in the fourth quarter of 2012. The 2013 Ford Focus ST features notable performance, handling and style attributes.

2013 Ford Focus ST brings excitement to hot-hatch segment

Engine Capability

The 2013 Ford Focus ST will be powered by Fords award-winning 2.0-litre EcoBoost engine that is capable of 184kW with a maximum torque figure of 350Nm. These figures are up from the previous 166kW and 320Nm. The EcoBoost engine displays the power of a larger displacement engine with the fuel efficiency of a smaller engine which is achieved with the combination of high pressure direct injection, low-inertia turbocharging, Twin-independent Variable Cam Timing (Ti-VCT) along with revised air intake and a performance exhaust system. The 2.0-litre EcoBoost engine is mated to a six-speed manual transmission.

The 2013 Ford Focus ST will be available in a range of colours including the signature Tangerine Scream along with Spirit Blue, Race Red, Panther Black, Frozen White and Moondust Silver.

More details on the new 2013 Ford Focus ST will be made available closer to launch.

Chevrolet Utility gets diesel power

The Chevrolet Utility range has expanded to a total of ten models on offer with the addition of three new efficient diesel variants available in Base AC, Club and Sport trim levels. Furthermore, Chevrolet has also included ABS brakes with EBD to the Base AC and Club models. All Chevrolet Utility models, except the Base model, will now be equipped with ABS brakes.

Chevrolet Utility Diesel offers frugal fuel consumption

Engine Capability

All three diesel variants are fitted with a 1.3-litre common rail direct injection turbocharged engine that produces 55kW at 4 000rpm and displays a maximum torque figure of 170Nm available at 1 750 and 2 500r/min
Fuel consumption for the new diesel Chevrolet Utility is quoted at 5.5-litres/100km and makes use of a five-speed manual transmission.

Standard Features

Standard features on the new diesel Chevrolet Utility variants include,

  • ABS brakes with EBD,
  • Manual Air Conditioning,
  • Body colour bumpers,
  • Protective moulding on load box upper edge,
  • Tie down hoops in load box,
  • 14 inch steel rims fitted with 185/65 R14 tyres (full size spare wheel),
  • Hydraulic power steering,
  • Height adjustable steering column,
  • Height adjustable driver’s seat,
  • Follow me home lighting system,
  • Tinted windows,
  • Vanity mirrors for driver and passenger,
  • Driver and passenger airbags,
  • Transponder immobiliser system.

The diesel Chevroloet Utility Club variant adds the following features,

  • Body colour door handles and rear view mirror housings,
  • Lead me to the car lighting system,
  • Light sensing automatic headlights,
  • Passenger overhead assist handles,
  • 6-speaker audio system with radio/CD player, RDS, MP3, Auxiliary input, USB port and Bluetooth connectivity,
  • Remote control central locking with safety unlock feature and automatic door lock at 15 km/h,
  • Anti-theft alarm system.

The diesel Chevrolet Utility Sport adds to the list with the following specifications,

  • Polished aluminium roof mounted spoiler
  • 15 inch alloy wheels fitted with 185/60 R15 tyres (full size spare)
  • Power remote heated side mirrors
  • Power windows,
  • On-board computer
  • Front fog lamps

Chevrolet Utility Diesel – Price

Chevrolet Utility 1.3 Diesel Base AC Price to be announced
Chevrolet Utility 1.3 Diesel Club R172 400
Chevrolet Utility 1.3 Diesel Sport R189 100

The Chevrolet Utility is covered by a 5-year/120 000 km warranty with roadside assistance for the full warranty period. Corrosion warranty cover is provided for 5 years with no kilometre limit.

New BMW M6 Convertible available in South Africa

The new BMW M6 Convertible is now available in South Africa and comes with a 10% higher engine output and 30% higher torque than the previous model. Performance and luxury defines the new BMW M6 Convertible.

New BMW M6 Convertible comes with more power and torque

The BMW M6 convertible is fitted with a high revving 4.4-litre V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology that produces 412kW at between 6 000 and 7 000rpm. The M6 Convertible displays an impressive maximum torque output of 680Nm from between 1 500 to 7 200rpm.

This power translates into a 0-100km/h time of just 4.3 seconds and the M3 Convertible will reach 200km/h in only 13.1 seconds and exhibits an electronically governed top speed of 250km/h. The M Driver’s Package, which is not available in South Africa, increases the top speed to 305km/h. CO2 emissions is rated at 239g/km.

Fuel consumption for the BMW M6 Convertible is quoted at 10.3-litres/100km, a 30% improvement on the previous model. The M6 Convertible’s V8 engine is mated with a seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission with Drivelogic.

BMW M6 Convertible gets new styling

The new BMW M6 Convertible exhibits classic M styling with the new M kidney grille with black double slats and wide air intakes. Adaptive LED headlights are fitted as standard on the M6 along with 19” M light-alloy wheels. The roof is a soft-top that incorporates ‘fin’ styling and comes with an electronic opening mechanism. The roof takes 19 seconds to open and 24 seconds to close and can be operated while moving at up to 40km/h.

The 4-seater M6 Convertible offers a luxurious interior. The lightweight front M sports seats offer maximum support for cornering or on long distance trips and are electrically adjustable for optimum driving positions. Luggage space offered is 300-litres with the soft-top roof open and 350-litres with it closed. The instrument panel exhibits circular instruments with red needles and white illumination. The iDrive control system features an on-board monitor with a flatscreen design while the optional Navigation system Professional includes 10.2-inch screen with chrome surrounds.

Standard Equipment

Standard equipment offered for the M6 Convertible include 2-zone automatic climate control, front heated seats, Merino leather trim, M driver’s footrest, carbon-fibre interior trim strips, auto-dimming rear-view mirror and exterior mirrors, Cruise Control, alarm system and BMW’s Professional radio with HiFi loudspeakers. A wide range of optional extras are also available.

Safety Features

Safety features include Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), DSC stability control, Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), Brake Assistant and M Dynamic Mode. Other safety features include High Beam Assistant, BMW Night Vision with pedestrian recognition, Lane Change Warning, Lane Departure Warning, rear-view camera, Surround View, Speed Limit Info as well as front and side airbags. The front seats are equipped with belt force limiters and belt tensioners and ISOFIX child seat mountings can be found in the rear seat.

New BMW M6 Convertible Price

BMW M6 Convertible – R 1 485 500

BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe in South Africa

The BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe is available in South Africa and is currently offered in three derivatives namely the 640i, 640d and the flagship 650i model which will be available later in the year. The BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe is the first four-door coupe in the history of BMW.

BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe boasts powerful engines

The BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe makes use of TwinPower Turbo engines with the 650i featuring a new and more efficient V8 engine that produces 330kW of power at 5 500rpm and displays a maximum torque figure of 650Nm available at between 2 000 and 4 500rpm. The 640i Gran Coupe delivers 235kW at between 5 800 and 6 000rpm. The 640d Gran Coupe has a power rating of 230kW. All engines feature fully variable valve control (VALVETRONIC).

The 640i and 640d Gran Coupe is capable of 100km/h in 5.4 seconds with a top speed of 250km/h. The 650i Gran Coupe will reach 100km/h in 4.6 seconds and reach a top speed of 250 km/h. All engine options are mated with an eight-speed Sport automatic transmission.

The 640i Gran Coupe displays a fuel consumption figure of 7.7-7.9 litres/100km while the 650i has a fuel consumption figure 8.6-8.9 litres/100km. The 640d will achieve in the region of 5.5-5.7 litres/100km.

BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe displays impeccable exterior and interior styling

The BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe incorporates elegant yet sporty elements into its sleek exterior design. The front end incorporates large air intake vents and a large kidney grille. Xenon headlights are offered as standard with adaptive LED headlights available as an option. LED technology is also used for the brake and indicator lights. Chrome elements complete the unique styling of the 6-Series Gran Coupe.

The 6-Series Gran Coupe displays a distinctly driver-orientated cabin with the instrument panel positioned towards the driver. The interior is both spacious and luxurious and offers a 4+1 seating arrangement for an additional passenger on short journeys. The BMW Professional navigation system is accessed on a 10.2 inch display. A Bang & Olufsen High-End Surround System is also included. The 6-Series Gran Coupe offers 460 litres of luggage space that can be increased to 1265 litres by folding down the rear seats.

Safety Features

The BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe features a wide range of safety features which includes front, side and head airbags, three-point automatic seatbelts, belt force limiters, active head restraints and ISOFIX child seat mountings. Other safety features include Park Distance Control (PDC), rear-view camera, BMW Night Vision with pedestrian recognition, Parking Assistance, Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function, rear-end collision warning with braking function, Lane Change Warning and Lane Departure Warning.

The BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe is available as standard or can be ordered in the M Sport or Individual packages.

BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe Price

BMW 6-Series Grand Coupe 640i – Standard Model R 877 000
BMW 6-Series Grand Coupe 640i – M Sport Model R 906 900
BMW 6-Series Grand Coupe 640i – Individual Model R 981 300
BMW 6-Series Grand Coupe 640d – Standard Model R 912 400
BMW 6-Series Grand Coupe 640d – M Sport Model R 942 300
BMW 6-Series Grand Coupe 640d – Individual Model R 1 016 700