New Renault Scenic and Grand Scenic to debut in Geneva

The new Renault Scenic and Grand Scenic are set to debut at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show to coincide with the launch of the new Renault Scénic XMOD. The new models have been re-styled to take on Renaults new design identity. The changes include exterior design improvements, new ENERGY engines and Renault R-Link available for both models.

New Renault Scenic and Grand Scenic get a makeover

Exterior styling improvements include a larger Renault logo set against a gloss black background that emphasises the revised grille. Both the Renault Scenic and Grand Scenic dashboard now has an area dedicated to navigation and multimedia along with a TFT screen which can be customised to display key vehicle information. Renaults R-Link will be available on both models and includes an easy-to-reach joystick control and a touchscreen display positioned in the drivers field of vision. The Bose sound system is present on the higher spec models.

In terms of engines, the new Renault Scenic XMOD, Scenic and Grand Scenic models will be available with a choice of three new ENERGY powertrains, all of which reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions while improving driving enjoyment and reliability. Notably, the new ENERGY TCe 130 boasts 15% improvement on fuel consumption over the previous TCe 130 unit, saving up to 1.0-litre/100km on the combined cycle.

Further details regarding the new Renault Scenic XMOD, Scenic and Grand Scenic models will be made available when they are unveiled at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show on 5 March.

2013 World Car of the Year finalists announced

The 2013 World Car of the Year finalists have been announced. Categories for this years award include the 2013 World Car of the Year, World Performance Car of the Year, World Green Car of the Year and World Car Design of the Year. The top three finalists in each category will be announced at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show and the winners will be announced at the New York Auto Show on 28 March 2013.

2013 Car of the Year Awards

A jury of 66 distinguished international automotive journalists have selected the following top ten finalists in the 2013 Car of the Year category and World Performance Car of the Year category by secret ballot, based on their experience with each candidate as part of their professional work. The top ten finalists in these categories are as follows, in alphabetical order.

2013 World Car of the Year

Audi A3
Land Rover Range Rover
Mazda6
Mazda CX-5
Mercedes-Benz A-Class
Peugeot 208
Porsche Boxster / Cayman
Scion FR-S / Subaru BRZ / Toyota GT 86 / Toyota 86
Volkswagen Golf
Volvo V40

2013 World Performance Car of the Year

Aston Martin Vanquish
Audi RS 5
BMW M6 Coupe / Convertible
BMW M 135i
Ferrari F12 Berlinetta
Mercedes-Benz SL 63 AMG
Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster
Porsche Boxster / Cayman
Renault Clio Sport
Scion FR-S / Subaru BRZ / Toyota GT 86 / Toyota 86

The jurors will re-evaluate the top ten cars in both classes in preparation for the final round of voting in February. The vehicles will be rated according to overall merit, value, safety, environmental responsibility, emotional appeal and significance. The Volkswagen Up! won the World Car of the Year award in 2012 while the Porsche 911 was named the 2012 World Performance Car of the Year.

The 2013 World Green Car of the Year award is handled differently and five experts in green technology were appointed to create a short list of finalists to be judged by the 66 jurors in February. The finalists in this category are as follows.

2013 World Green Car of the Year

Renault Zoe
Smart Electric Drive
Tesla Model S
Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid
Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid Diesel

The cars eligible for the 2013 World Car Design of the Year award are taken from the list of World Car candidates or are included as a stand-alone entry. Again, a panel of five highly respected design experts were chosen to provide a short list for the jurors. The finalists in this category include the following vehicles.

2013 World Car Design of the Year

Aston Martin Vanquish
Renault Clio
Jaguar F-Type
Land Rover Range Rover
Mazda 6
Volkswagen Golf

Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Edition 507 to make Geneva debut

Mercedes-Benz will reveal the C 63 AMG Edition 507 at the Geneva Motor Show on 5 March 2013. The Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Edition 507 is designed to appeal to ambitious drivers who take pleasure in top-class technology, as well as exclusive design and appointment details. The C 63 AMG Edition 507 will be available in Coupe, Sedan or Estate variants.

Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Edition 507 is unique and stylish

Engine Capability

The Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Edition 507 is powered by a 6.3-litre V8 engine that has been modified to produce 378kW at 6 800rpm with a maximum torque figure of 610Nm available at 5 200rpm. Combined fuel consumption for the Coupe and Sedan versions is 12.0-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 280g/km. The estate version consumes 12.2-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure 285g/km. Acceleration to 100km/h will take 4.2 seconds for the Coupe and Sedan while the Estate will take 4.3 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 280km/h as the C 63 AMG Edition 507 is fitted with the AMG Drivers package as standard.

Exterior Styling Features

The Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Edition 507 features an aluminium bonnet originating from the C 63 AMG Coupe Black Series with two openings to expel engine heat. The model also benefits from new 19-inch AMG light-alloy cross-spoke wheels. The wheels are available in two variants including titanium grey with a high-sheen finish and matt black with high-sheen rim flanges. AMG sports stripes in matt graphite grey are seen above the side sill panels for added exclusivity.

The spoiler boot lid (Sedan and Coupe only), exterior mirror housings and the surrounds on the radiator grille and daytime running lights are finished in high-gloss black while darkened headlamps add a sporty touch. The C 63 AMG can also be had in designo Magno Platinum paint finish as an option. An AMG high-performance composite braking system with red brake callipers is fitted as standard for enhanced braking performance.

Interior Styling Features

Customers will have the choice between three different equipment and appointment levels including Porcelain designo leather/DINAMICA, Black designo leather/DINAMICA and black designo leather. The AMG Performance steering wheel is finished in Alcantara with light-coloured contrasting stitching and a 12-oclock marking. The instrument cluster is differentiated from other models with red applications while the trim in high-gloss Black Piano Lacquer look and the Edition 507 badge completes the sporty interior.

According to Ola Källenius, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH, ”The C 63 AMG with the classic AMG 6.3-litre high-revving V8 naturally aspirated engine is one of the most popular AMG high-performance cars in the world. With the new Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG “Edition 507″, we are offering our loyal customers an attractive model variant which boasts even higher performance and at the same time is visually exciting.”

Geely GX 7 to undergo transformation

The Geely GX 7 utility vehicle is set to undergo a number of changes in the future which will include an extra row of seats which will increase seating capacity to seven passengers. The Geely GX 7 will also become a full-blown SUV with All-Wheel Drive models to compete with the likes of the Toyota RAV4. The new upcoming 7-seater version is also expected to feature Geelys 6-speed automatic DSG transmission.

Geely GX 7 coming to South Africa

The Geely GX 7 was first shown at the 2012 Beijing International Motor Show and earned a 5-star safety rating in the Chinese New Car Assessment Programme (C-NCAP), making it Chinas safest SUV.

Geely has continually introduced new products to the market over recent years and has improved its management systems and brand profile. Geely recently opened a state-of-the-art Research and Development Centre at its Midrand head offices to evaluate new models to be launched in South Africa.

The Geely GSX 7 is expected to be launched in South Africa in a year or two according to Geely and is currently powered by a 1.8-litre and 2.0-litre petrol versions. However, a new 2.4-litre petrol and 2.0-litre diesel units are expected to be introduced this year. The South African line-up will include the front-wheel drive derivative as well as the full SUV with All-Wheel Drive and the future 7-seater versions.

New VW Golf 7 price and specs for South Africa

The highly anticipated VW Golf 7 has been launched in South Africa. Weighing up to 100kg less and consuming up to 23% less fuel, the new Golf 7 is available with a range of new engines and in three trim levels namely Trendline, Comfortline and Highline.

New VW Golf 7 Specs and Features

Engine Capability

VW’s new Golf 7 is available with a choice of three petrol engines and two diesel engines. The petrol TSI engines include the 1.2-litre TSI engine that produces 77kW with a maximum torque figure of 175Nm. Combined fuel consumption for this engine is rated at 4.9-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 114g/km. This engine is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. The 1.4-litre TSI engine develops 90kW and 200Nm of torque with a combined fuel consumption figure of 5.2-litres/100km and a CO2 emissions figure of 120g/km. A 7-speed DSG transmission is optionally available for this variant. The more powerful 1.4 TSI develops 103kW with a maximum torque figure of 250Nm. Combined fuel consumption is rated at 5.3-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 121g/km.

The diesel engines include the 2.0-litre TDI with 81kW and 250Nm of torque with a fuel consumption figure 4.5-litres/100km. CO2 emissions are rated at 119g/km and this engine is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. The second diesel engine on offer is the 2.0-litre TDI offering 110kW and 320Nm of torque. This unit consumes 4.5-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 119g/km. This engine is available with a 6-speed manual gearbox.

All Golf 7 engines, except the 81kW 2.0-litre TDI, are equipped with Volkswagen’s BlueMotion Technology which includes a Stop/Start system and a battery regeneration mode.

Exterior Styling Features

The new Golf is 4.255m long, 2.027m wide, 1.452m tall with a wheelbase of 2.637m. The front wheels have been shifted 43mm forward and the C-pillar runs along one homogenous surface from the start of the roof all the way to the rear wheel arch. The Golf 7 also features a V-shaped bonnet accented with redesigned headlights and a narrow radiator grille. The Trendline derivative rides on 15-inch Lyon alloy wheels while the Comfortline derivatives ride on 16-inch Toronto alloy wheels. Highline variants are fitted with 17-inch Dijon alloy wheels.

Interior Styling Features

The larger proportions of the VW Golf 7 translate into a more spacious and comfortable interior. Cargo capacity has grown by 30-litres to 380-litres and overall knee has legroom has also improved. The centre console features a 5-8-inch infotainment touchscreen and all information and entertainment systems have been re-styled. All the seats have also been re-designed to offer maximum comfort for the driver and passengers. The Trendline and Comfortline derivatives are fitted with a Composition Colour Radio (5-inch) and offers a SD slot, aux-in interface, two push dials and 8-speakers. The Highline derivative is fitted with a Composition Media Radio (5.8-inch) and includes Bluetooth telephone preparation and a USB interface. A Radio-navigation system is available as an option.

New VW Golf 7 Price

Model	Price
Volkswagen Golf 1.2 TSI Trendline	R233 800
Volkswagen Golf 1.4 TSI Trendline	R246 700
Volkswagen Golf 1.4 TSI Comfortline	R264 900
Volkswagen Golf 1.4 TSI Comfortline with DSG	R279 400
Volkswagen Golf 2.0 TDI Comfortline	R282 300
Volkswagen Golf 1.4 TSI Highline	R293 600
Volkswagen Golf 2.0 TDI Highline	R334 800

The new Volkswagen Golf 7 model range comes standard with a 5-year/90 000km Service Plan, a 3-year/120 000km warranty and a 12-year anti-corrosion warranty. Service intervals are set at 15 000km.

New car launches in South Africa for January 2013

The New Year is well underway and car buyers in South Africa are being spoilt for choice with 10 new models launched in the month of January 2013. The year of 2013 will see a number of exciting models launched in South Africa, but for now, take a look at the new models that were launched last month.   

Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 Alpine Edition from R864 990

 Only 95 units of the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 Alpine Edition are available to the local market. Unique features include a Bright White paintwork and Black Vapor Chrome finish on the split 5-spoke 20-inch alloy wheels. The SRT8 Alpine Edition also features a Jeep hood badge, Grand Cherokee door badge, front grille surround and inserts, a rear light bar and step pad as well as a SRT8 badge accent on the rear tailgate.
 
Jeep Altitude Compass Limited Edition from R295 490

 Features unique to this limited edition model include seven-slot Jeep grille with the headlights finished in black gloss surrounds. Black roof rails and a black step pad are also included and the Limited Edition Altitude Compass rides on 18-inch black gloss aluminium wheels. The model benefits from power heated exterior mirrors, heated seats, CVT transmission and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Only 199 units are available to the local market.
 
Toyota Auris from R195 000

 The revised Auris has arrived in South Africa with a choice of either a 73kW/128Nm 1.3-litre engine or a 97kW/160Nm 1.6-litre variant. The Auris rides on 15-inch wheel-cap design wheels for the 1.3-litre variant while the 1.6-litre variant rides on 16-inch alloy wheels. Apart from the revised interior and exterior styling, the new Auris now offers 360-litres of boot space compared to the outgoing model.   

Audi Q5 from R464 000

 The new Audi Q5 SUV is offered with a choice of five engines including two TDI engines and three TFSI engines with power ranging from 130kW to 200kW depending on the variant. The Audi Q5 features a high-gloss black single-frame with bevelled upper edges and vertical chrome struts. The interior has been refined and two trim levels namely S and SE are available. Luggage space ranges between 540 and 1 56-litres depending how the seats are folded.  

Audi RS 4 Avant from R875 000

 The third-generation RS 4 Avant is offered with a 331kW 4.2-litre V8 engine, combining high-performance with practicality. The hexagonal single-frame grille with a honeycomb insert finished in high gloss anthracite is complemented with Xenon Plus headlamps and Daytime Running Lights (DRLs). Standard features include MMI Navigation Plus, S sports seats with Alcantara and leather trim, flat-bottomed multi-function steering wheel, Audi Parking System Plus and 19-inch wheels.
 
Audi 1.8T FSI TT Coupe from R392 000

 Audi has expanded the TT coupe range with an entry-level offering seen in the 118kW/250Nm 1.8T FSI TT Coupe. The 1.8T FSI TT Coupe features a lightweight Audi Space Frame which helps enhance handling and driving dynamics. 17-inch alloy wheels are standard as is Bluetooth connectivity and a multi-function steering wheel. A re-styled single-frame grille with Xenon Plus headlights and Daytime Running Lights completes the package.  

Hyundai Santa Fe from R434 900 

The third-generation Hyundai Santa Fe has arrived offering three models namely the Premium, Executive and Elite with all three powered by a 145kW/436Nm 2.2-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine. All derivatives use a 6-speed automatic transmission with the option of manual shift control. The Premium model rides on 17-inch alloy wheels as standard while the Executive and Elite models ride on 18 and 19-inch alloy wheels respectively.   

Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Coupe Black Series from R1 425 000

  The C 63 AMG Coupe Black Series is powered by a hefty 6.3-litre V8 that produces 380kW and 620Nm of torque and is mated to a AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission, translating into an electronically limited top speed of 300km/h. The C 63 AMG Coupe Black Series rides on 19-inch AMG light alloy wheels painted in titanium grey. Optional packages include AMG Performance Media, AMG Track package and the AMG Exterior Carbon-Fibre package.

  Renault Sandero Stepway Roxy Louw Limited Edition from R149 900  

Inspired by international surfer and model Roxy Louw, the Renault Sandero Stepway Roxy Louw Limited Edition features Roxys signature turtle and hibiscus Cowabanga emblem. Other additions include a new Blaupunkt Bluetooth MP3 radio with USB and auxiliary inputs as well as a TomTom Live navigation unit. Only 100 units are available with 50 in red and 50 in black.

  Mitsubishi ASX from R279 900  

The revised 2013 ASX compact crossover has arrived and is powered by a 2.0-litre petrol unit that produces 110kW and 197Nm of torque. The trim levels are available namely GL, GLX and GLS. The upholstery in the GL version is made of honeycomb knit fabric while the both the GLX and GLS benefit from leather upholstery. Luggage capacity is between 442 and 1 193-litres depending on how the seats are folded and a full size spare wheel is standard. All models are fitted with Mitsubishis voice activated Link system.

New Toyota Concepts and models to be shown in Geneva

New Toyota concepts and models will be showcased at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show on 5 March 2012. The Toyota line-up includes the FT-86 Open and Toyota i-Road concepts as well as the British-built Auris touring Sports and the fourth-generation RAV4.

Exciting new Toyota concepts and models set to impress

The Toyota FT-86 concept

The Toyota FT-86 concept will preview the possible future development of the much praised GT86 sports coupe, also known as the Toyota 86 in South Africa. The FT-86 concept will be used to gauge public reaction. Toyota is meanwhile carrying out engineering tests on a prototype.

Toyota i-Road concept

The Toyota i-Road was conceived as a compact, fun and emissions-free, personal mobility concept and was designed to offer quick and efficient urban transport for two people.

Toyota Auris Touring Sports

After previewing the estate version at the 2012 Paris Motor Show, Toyota will unveil the production-ready Auris Touring Sports in Geneva. Toyota is yet to publish specifications, dimensions and performance data for the model which goes on sale later in 2013.

The Auris Touring Sports is set to become the new reference point for medium-sized estate cars which is supported by its styling, luggage capacity and full hybrid powertrain. A special design study called the Auris Touring Sports Black will accompany the Auris Touring Sports in the spotlight.

??Toyota RAV4

The fourth-generation RAV4 will be showcased, coinciding with its market launch in Europe. The new RAV4 offers distinctive styling, a high quality interior, greater efficiency and enhancements to its all-wheel drive system. The new RAV4 will be accompanied by two design studies at the Geneva Motor Show and these include the RAV4 Premium and the RAV4 Adventure. The new RAV4 will be launched in South Africa later in 2013.

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

Opel Astra Hatch range revised with less cost

General Motors South Africa (GMSA) has introduced a number of styling and specification changes to the Opel Astra Hatch range. The changes include revisions to the exterior styling, interior trim and technical specification as well as a marginal reduction in price.

With the introduction of the Opel Astra for the 2013 model year we have adopted a number of external, and internal styling changes that refresh the inherent continental styling appeal of the Astra, says Malcolm Gauld, GM South Africas Vice President Vehicles Sales Service and Marketing.

??Opel Astra Hatch Specifications and Features

??Engine Capability

Four models are available in the Opel Astra Hatch range including the Astra 1.6 Essentia, the Astra 1.4T Essentia Plus, the Astra 1.4T Enjoy and the Astra 1.6T Sport. The flagship Astra 1.6T Sport is powered by a 1.6-litre turbo engine that produces 132kW and 230Nm of torque. Acceleration to 100km/h will take 8.5 seconds before reaching a top speed of 221km/h using a 6-speed manual transmission. Combined fuel economy for this model is 6.8-litres/100km.

Exterior and Interior Styling Features

The Opel Astra Hatch range now features a revised grille and a redesigned front bumper with a more pronounced lower grille section. The fog lamps and indicators have also been revised. The rear-end sees the addition of chrome detailing, a revised rear bumper design and new treatment for the license plate holder. The alloy rims have also been redesigned across the range and the interior benefits from the introduction of new contemporary trim materials and mouldings.

??Standard Features

The Opel Astra 1.6 Essentia comes with heated power mirrors in body colour, Daytime Running Lights (DRLs), Power front windows, remote power door locks, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), two cup holders, open storage space, front and side airbags, pedal release system and 17-inch alloy wheels.

Standard features for the Opel Astra 1.4T Essentia Plus are as per the 1.6 Essentia but adds a 1.4-litre turbo engine, rear electric windows, cruise control and side curtain airbags. The Opel Astra 1.4T Enjoy includes front fog lamps, Radio CD with graphic information display, USB and Bluetooth connectivity, leather steering wheel, rain sensing wipers, anti-dazzle rear view mirror, auto headlight control and seat pockets on the back of the front seats.

The 1.6T Sport comes standard with a sports chassis, premium leather trim, translucent instrument accent lighting, dual-zone electronic climate control, two cup holders, covered storage and an adjustable front armrest. Other features include an electronic parking brake, Hill Start Assist, Rear Park Assist, On-board computer, 12V power outlet in the rear console and 18-inch alloy wheels.

??Opel Astra Hatch Price

Model	Price
Opel Astra 1.6 Essentia	R231 000
Opel Astra 1.4T Essentia Plus	R248 000
Opel Astra 1.4T Enjoy	R257 000
Opel Astra 1.6T Sport	R298 500

The Opel Astra is covered by a 5-year/120 000km warranty with Roadside assistance for the warranty period. A 5-year/90 000km Service Plan is also included in the price.

New Ssangyong Rodius Teased

Ssangyong has released a teaser image of its new 2014 Rodius model which has been named as the A150 project during its two-year development period. The new Ssangyong Rodius is based on the Robust, Premium, Specialty design philosophy and features a new bold front line and a spacious body that combines dynamics with sophistication, according to Ssangyong.

New SsangYong Rodius for the great outdoors

The new ??Ssangyong Rodius is an all-round vehicle ?? and has been styled to suit the outdoors, off-road-driving as well as on-road driving making it a versatile all-rounder with its streamlined radiator grille and headlights. The new SsangYong Rodius, according to Ssangyong, offers a whole package of convenience and practical values by fulfilling various needs from business, leisure and travel.

The new Ssangyong Rodius will be equipped with a 2.0-litre diesel engine and a 3.2-litre petrol engine. The Rodius is scheduled to be launched globally early in 2013, so it may very well make its way to South Africa in the near future.

Opel ADAM set for success

The funky urban Opel ADAM is set to make waves in Europe after taking over 20 000 orders a week after its launch, with most of the orders placed in Germany. The Opel ADAM made its debut at the Paris Motor Show in October 2012 and is set to be a major success in the European market.

Deputy Chairman of the Opel Management Board Dr. Thomas Sedran says, This is an outstanding start for our new small lifestyle car from Eisenach especially if one considers that the market launch in many European markets is yet to come. The ADAM sparks excitement and is a popular new ambassador for our brand.

Diversity a big plus for Opel ADAM

The Opel ADAM offers a staggering amount of personalisation options for customers with over 61 000 variations for the exterior and 82 000 for the interior, ranging from a vast selection of colours and rims to special details like different headliners.

Dr Sedran commented, Whoever orders an ADAM today can be quite certain that he/she wont see an identical car. Almost every Opel ADAM will be unique.

Apart from its attractive personalisation potential, the Opel ADAM also features clever and affordable technology as part of the package. For example, its IntelliLink infotainment system integrates the owners smartphone (Apple iOS and Android) in the vehicle. The system will soon be available with the innovative Apple voice recognition software SIRI Eyes Free. The Opel ADAM also adopts innovations usually found on higher class vehicles and these include the newest-generation automatic Park Assist, a heated steering wheel, Side Blind Spot Alert and the Opel-exclusive, fully integrated rear bicycle carrier FlexFix.

As it stands, the Opel ADAM will not be available in South Africa. Opel however plans to introduce a total of 23 new vehicles and 13 new engines to the market between 2012 and 2016.