Infiniti Q50 sports sedan at 2013 Detroit Auto Show

The Infiniti Q50 sports sedan is currently being showcased at the Detroit Auto Show and sets the tone for the brands future design, performance and technology direction. The Infiniti Q50 will be launched in the North American market first before it makes its way to other markets later in the year. The Q50 can be expected in South Africa in the second half of 2013 and exact launch dates will be announced at a later date.

Infiniti Q50 brings sporty back

Engine Capability??

In North America, two engine options will be available while additional powertrains will become available as part of a global rollout. The engine options available in North America include a 3.7-litre V6 unit that produces 245kW with a maximum torque figure of 365Nm. This unit features Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVTCS) and Variable Valve Event & Lift (VVEL).

The hybrid model, with the Infiniti Direct Response Hybrid system with Intelligent Dual Clutch Control, combines a 3.5-litre V6 engine and a compact laminated lithiumion battery with an innovative one-motor/two-clutch motor control. The V6 engine produces 50kW and 270Nm of torque while the combined power output is 268kW.

Both Infiniti Q50 models make use of an advanced 7-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission with manual shift mode and steering-column mounted magnesium paddle shifters.

??Exterior Styling Features

The Infiniti Q50 takes inspiration from the Essence concept car and features a dynamic character line that arises from its double arch grille, flowing through the side profile like a wave before merging with the rear-end. The grilles 3-D textured quality is made possible with the elaborately detailed waved mesh pattern surface with its chrome surround. The overall design is further enhanced with an arched roofline that flows to the Crescent C-pillars and is similar to those seen on the Essence concept.

The side character lines merge smoothly with the shape of the rear LED combination lights. The rear double-arch trunk line completes the overall rear-end design. Heated side mirrors and integrated LED indicator lights are fitted as standard while a power sliding and tilting glass sunroof will be optionally available.

Interior Styling Features?

The Infiniti Q50 interior was designed with the driver in mind and a wide range of customizable adjustments are available to the driver. The instrument panel is in line with the brands double wave design tradition with an asymmetrical flow from the top of the cluster to the wide centre console. The driver has easy access to all key operations without having to alter driving position. The seats are a new ergonomic design that helps distribute weight across the surface of the seat which enhances both comfort and support. A choice of various interior fabrics and colours will be made available and include leather-appointed seats while the colour choice includes Wheat, Graphite and Stone.

The Infiniti Q50 makes use of the Infiniti InTouch telematics system which incorporates two touchscreens which effortlessly synchronize the car and driver to smartphones and USB devices.

??Safety Features

The Infiniti Q50 features a host of safety systems including Intelligent Cruise Control with Full Speed Range, predictive Forward Collision Warning, Forward Emergency Braking, Distance Control Assist, Blind Spot Intervention, Back-up Collision Intervention, Lane Departure Prevention and Active Lane Control.

Infiniti President Johan de Nysschen said. This exciting new Infiniti Q50 stretches the boundaries of what a sports sedan can be, propelling Infiniti in a bold new direction.

Honda Urban SUV Concept makes Detroit Auto Show debut

The Honda Urban SUV Concept has made its world debut at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show. The concept showcases the styling direction Honda may use for an all-new SUV that will be launched in Japan at the end of 2013 and will be available in other markets in 2014.

??Honda Urban SUV Concept Design Features

The Honda Urban SUV Concept is intended to be a fun-to-drive and fuel efficient small SUV that incorporates aspirational design, flexible packaging and next-generation connectivity targeting active lifestyle customers, according to Honda. The Honda Urban SUV Concept features hidden rear-door handles giving it coupe-like styling.

The Honda Urban SUV Concept represents the expansion of vehicles based on Hondas Global Compact Series which includes the Honda Fit and the Honda City.

The new small SUV from Honda will be based on the Honda Urban SUV Concept and will be powered by the fuel efficient Earth Dreams Technology and will be priced and positioned below the CR-V.

The small SUV will feature a centre-tank layout and will incorporate Hondas configurable Magic Seat setup that can provide a wide range of passenger and cargo options including a fold-flat mode for maximising cargo capacity. The new SUV model will also feature next-generation telematics and a modern interior.

The new small Honda SUV will be manufactured along with the Fit at Hondas new North American plant near Celaya in Mexico which is expected to open early in 2014. Hondas growth and expansion of its small vehicle line-up will help Honda double worldwide production in its Global Compact Series to more than 1.5 million units by the end of 2016.

Toyota Corolla Furia Concept shown at Detroit Auto Show

The Toyota Corolla Furia Concept has been revealed at the Detroit Auto Show which hints at the future design of the next-generation Corolla. The compact sedan concept represents an exterior styling study by Toyota designers and builds on the brands product development priority to develop more dramatic and expressively designed vehicles.

“The Toyota Corolla Furia Concept is an early indicator of where our compact car design may lead in the future,” said Bill Fay, group vice president and general manager of the Toyota Division. “It blends a heightened emphasis on dramatic design and modern elements of high technology to generate curb appeal that will surprise a lot of people.”

Toyota Corolla Furia Concept features stunning design

The Toyota Corolla Furia Concept has been designed around the theme of Iconic Dynamism and uses pure and simple elements to create a confident, decisive and recognisable design that will appeal to more youthful consumers. According to Toyota, the Furia Concept features a more provocative, dynamic interpretation of a compact sedan that displays a more stable, athletic stance with 19-inch alloy wheels pushed to the vehicle’s corners with short overhangs to help emphasize its long wheelbase.

The Toyota Corolla Furia Concept design includes a swept windshield with a sloped roofline and pronounced fender flares, creating a sense of motion, even while stationary. The front fascia features a blacked-out grille treatment that highlights the pair of sculpted LED headlamps that combine with the rear composite LED taillights to add a sense of technological superiority to the overall design. Carbon fibre elements are used in the concepts wheel wells, rocker panels and the rear valance, which includes metal exhaust outlet surrounds, creating a sense of modern athleticism.

The Toyota Corolla Furia Concept stands 4.62m in length, 1.805m wide with a height of 1.425m and a wheelbase of 2.7m.

Giniel de Villiers holds third at Dakar Rally

Giniel de Villiers and co-driver Dirk von Zitzewitz have managed to retain their overall third place position after a gruelling week at the 2013 Dakar Rally. Fridays Stage 7 between Calama in Chile and Salta in Argentina went well for the duo who finished the stage without problems and continue to lead the four-wheel drive petrol T1.1 class in their Imperial Toyota Hilux Bakkie.

Rain causes delay for Giniel de Villiers on Stage 8

Stage 8 of the Dakar Rally commenced on Saturday 12 January 2013 and was the longest stage of the week, covering a distance of 849km between Salta and San Miguel de Tucuman in Argentina. Torrential rains and flooded rivers resulted in special stage 8 to be reduced from 470km to 185km. A swollen river 30km from the end of the stage prevented all but five cars from reaching the finish and race direction applied the slowest stage time of the finishers to all those who failed to finish. This decision has been contested by some of the competitors and the current results are subject to confirmation.

Stage 8 was won by Guerlain Chicherit and Jean-Pierre Garcin of France in a two-wheel drive SMG Buggy. Giniel De Villiers and Von Zitzewitz were among those who were unable to cross the flooded river. Current official results place Frenchman Stephane Peterhansel and Jean Paul Cottret in first place with Nasser Al-Attiyah and Lucas Cruz in second place, 3 minutes 14 seconds behind the leaders.

De Villiers and Von Zitzewitz are in third place, 44 minutes 3 seconds behind the leaders. ??It was quite a challenging stage! said De Villiers. It went well for us. We started fifth and overtook Nasser when he suffered a puncture. Then we reached a river which was totally flooded. It was impossible to cross. We heard from the organisers that the rest of the stage was neutralised and that the result would be taken as at Check Point 2. It was a pity, as we were having a good run and would probably have been able to make up a bit more time by the end.”

??Stage 9 Dakar Rally??

Sunday was considered a rest day with Stage 9 continuing on Monday with another tough stage over 293 kilometres San Miguel de Tucuman and Cordoba in Argentina. The cars start Stage 9 at approximately 2:03 PM (SA Time).

2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class shown at Detroit Auto Show

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class has made its first appearance at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show. The company has dubbed the CLA a style rebel which takes its design cues from the CLS and features leading aerodynamics, avant-garde coupe design and 4MATIC all-wheel drive. With its frameless doors, the four-door coupe carries the design of the Concept Style Coupe into series production.

2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA is big on style

Engine Capability

The CLA250 and CLA250 4MATIC are powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine that delivers 155kW with a maximum torque figure of 350Nm. The CLA is fitted with sports suspension and features 4MATIC all-wheel drive with fully variable torque distribution that improves traction and agility while providing higher levels of safety and efficiency. The CLA250 is fitted with a 7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission and ECO stop/start function is fitted as standard.

Exterior Styling Features

Striking features of the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA include its hood with power domes and the diamond-look grille. The headlight and LED arrangement behind the headlamp lens offers a flame effect for the optional Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) and indicators and is a key aspect of the car. Three prominent lines provide structure with the front structural edge above the fenders flowing towards the rear in a characteristic dropping line. The second line spans the shoulder muscle above the rear axle while the third line extends in a sweeping curve from the front wheel towards the rear. These lines add depth to the CLAs side profile.

The tail lights are framed by the muscular shoulder lines extending to the rear while the horizontal light layout emphasises the cars stance and breadth. The C-pillars are drawn-in and the sloping roofline gives the CLA its distinct coupe styling. A large panorama sunroof is available as an option and the CLA is fitted with 17-inch, 5-spoke, two-tone wheels as standard.

Interior Styling Features

Standard trim for the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA is an Anthracite surface finish with additional trim options including burl walnut wood, black ash wood and aluminium. Five air-vents are included in the instrument panel with the outer rings in a high-quality galvanised finish. The CLA comes with the mbrace2 connectivity service giving users access to a range of online services and apps by linking to smartphones. A 5.8-inch display and Bluetooth are standard features for the CLA250 and the CLA250 4MATIC.

??Safety Features??

Standard safety features include the Attention Assist drowsiness detection and the radar-based Collision Prevention Assist with adaptive Brake Assist which offers collision protection. The Driver Assistance Package offers Distronic as well as Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist. Parktronic with Advance Parking Assist allows for autonomous parking in parallel and perpendicular parking spaces and is available as an option.

Although the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA made a brief appearance at the Detroit Auto Show, it will celebrate its official world premiere at the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in Berlin held from 5-18 January 2013. It is unclear if or when the CLA will make it to South Africa.

2014 Jeep Patriot and Compass make Detroit Auto Show debut?

The new 2014 Jeep Patriot and Compass models are currently on show at the Detroit Motor Show and both models feature a new PowerTech 6-speed automatic transmission which has improved fuel economy and performance. In addition, the Jeep Compass has also benefitted from a revised exterior and interior design.

2014 Jeep Patriot and Compass – Features

Engine Capability??

The Jeep Patriot and Compass are available in three derivatives namely the Sport, Latitude and Limited models. The Sport and Latitude models are powered by a 2.0-litre I-4 petrol engine that produces 118kW with a maximum torque figure of 191Nm. The Limited models are powered by a proven 2.4-litre I4 engine that develops 129kW and 224Nm of torque. The Sport derivatives are mated to a 5-speed manual transmission while the Latitude and Limited models are fitted with the new PowerTech 6-speed automatic transmission. Both the Jeep Patriot and Compass deliver 907kg of towing capacity.

Exterior Styling Features??

The Jeep Compass exterior design has been updated and includes an enhanced plated upper grille and mold-in-colour Billet Silver grille texture for the Latitude and Limited models. The headlamps now feature a black inner bezel on the Sport and Latitude models while the Limited models come with projector halogen headlamps with a black inner bezel and chrome fog lamp bezels. The Compass also gets painted mirror caps, taillamps with a smoked inner bezel, a plated chrome insert on the tailgate trim and 18-inch aluminium wheels for the Limited models.

Interior Styling Features??

The Jeep Compass interior now includes a new trim option for the Limited model which is Saddle Brown perforated leather with accent stitching. The Latitude model includes a new sport mesh and vinyl seat with grey accent stitching while the Light Pebble Beige trim features a new Tangerine accent stitch on the seats. The armrests, centre console lid are wrapped in vinyl while the instrument cluster overlay graphics have been updated. The centre bezel, gear bezel and pull cups are finished in a satin chrome finish.

The 2014 Jeep Patriot and Compass can be expected in South Africa later in 2013.

New Renault Captur urban crossover revealed

Details of the new Renault Captur urban crossover have been released. The Captur features expressive styling with the driving position of an SUV, cabin space and modular interior of an MPV and the agility and driving dynamics of a compact saloon car. The new Renault Captur will be powered by both petrol and diesel engines and is expected to deliver best-in-class fuel consumption and CO2 emissions starting from as low as 96g/km.

New Renault Captur features ?impressive design

The Capturs smooth, robust and compact appearance draws inspiration from the Captur concept car and features a steeply-raked windscreen, a raised ground clearance, large-diameter wheels and sill gaurds, making it a versatile urban all-rounder. The Captur is also easily customisable and will be offered with an original two-tone colour scheme which provides contrast between the roof and pillars and the rest of the body work.

Despite its compact footprint with a length of four metres, the new Renault Captur offers a sense of space with its generous interior dimensions. The Capturs interior is MPV-like with its high-up driving position, large boot, modular interior and innovative stowage solutions. The Captur will also include hands-free entry, Hill Start Assist and rear parking sensors as well the new Renault R-Link touchscreen multimedia tablet including a sound system with six loudspeakers, Bluetooth connectivity, audio-streaming and Arkamys hi-fi sound.

The new Renault Captur is based on the same platform as the Clio and will be built at Renaults Valladolid plant in Spain and will be officially unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2013.

De Villiers holds on to third place at 2013 Dakar Rally

Stage 6 of the Dakar Rally has been the longest so far and was the first stage to take place in Chile after five gruelling days in Peru. Stage 6 of the Dakar Rally totalled 767km with a 454km special stage that was expected to shake-up the leader board. However, no major changes occurred in the top four and Giniel de Villiers and Dirk von Zitzewitz managed to hold on to their overall third position, despite a frustrating delay on special stage 6 between Arica in Peru and Calama in Chile.

Leader board remains unchanged   

2012 Dakar champions Stephane Peterhansel and Jean Paul Cottret of France (Mini) are still leading ahead of 2011 champion Nasser Al-Attiyah and Spanish co-driver Lucas Cruz (Buggy). Al-Attiyah of Qatar was pushing Peterhansel hard and won his third special stage on Thursday, closing the gap between Peterhansel to just 1 minute 18 seconds. Peterhansel came in at second place followed by Americans Robbie Gordon and Kellon Walch (Hummer) in third.

  Giniel de Villiers suffers delay   

Giniel de Villiers and Dirk von Zitzewitz in overall third are now 42 minutes 31 seconds behind Peterhansel/Cottret after losing approximately 12 minutes after being bogged down in soft sand to avoid the stranded Mini of Spains Nani Roma and Frances Michel Perin who had driven into a deep hole when De Villiers suddenly came upon them. Luckily for Peterhansel, Cottret waved him away from the sand trap and they continued on their way unscathed.

De Villiers said, It was a frustrating incident and happened after we had been stuck behind Roma in his dust for some kilometres. We pushed hard afterwards to make up some of the lost time and are happy to have kept our third place in the race. There is still a long way to go. We will continue to race our race and do our best. Its not about winning stages (Peterhansel has only won one), but all about maintaining a good pace each day and finishing without any major delay.

Dakar Rally Stage 7  

Stage 7 of the Dakar Rally is a marathon 806km challenge from Calama in Chile to Salta in Argentina. Competitors will ascend the Andes Mountains in the small hours with all the drivers and riders in convoy for a 534km liaison stage which finishes at a record altitude of 4 975 metres above sea level at the top of Argentinas highest mountain pass. The temperature is expected to drop to 15 degrees from highs of more than 40 degrees in the opening days. The 220km special stage will take place at altitudes between 3 400 and 4 000 metres, but the speedometer will rarely go below 100km/h.

Stage 7 of the Dakar Rally will commence on Friday 11 January 2013 at 3:33PM (SA Time).

Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG details revealed

Details of the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG 4MATIC have been revealed, which now features a redesigned, performance-orientated AMG all-wheel drive system as standard. The E 63 AMG 4MATIC will also available in a high-performance S Model. Mercedes-Benz, now for the first time offers powerful passenger cars with an all-wheel-drive system designed for vehicle dynamics while also offering more individuality than before. The Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG will be available as either a sedan or station wagon.

Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG 4MATIC brings power and class

Engine Capability

The Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG 4MATIC is fitted with a powerful 5.5-litre AMG V8 Biturbo engine that develops 410kW and 720Nm or torque. The high-performance S Model however produces 430kW with a maximum torque figure of 800Nm. These performance figures will accelerate the E63 AMG S Model to 100km/h in under 3.5 seconds while reaching an electronically limited top speed of 299km/h. Transmission comes in the form of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission which comes with four drive programs.

The performance-orientated all-wheel-drive 4MATIC system sends 33% of the engine torque to the front while 67% is sent to the rear axle, ensuring a high level of vehicle dynamics. The three-stage ESP system is specifically calibrated to the permanent all-wheel-drive system. Furthermore, the E63 AMG S Model 4MATIC is equipped with a limited-slip rear differential which further increases traction on the road or track.

Exterior Styling??

The Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG 4MATIC features AMGs new design philosophy and key elements include the silver-chrome AMG twin blade radiator grille and the so called A-wing. The three-dimensional air control element extends across the width of the front fascia and features a stylised A which is distinctive of AMG vehicles. The A-wing is painted in body colour with a silver-chrome strip framing the cooling-air inlets. A front splitter in body colour increases downforce.

Side air outlets, black mesh and the two chrome-plated dual tailpipes of the AMG sports exhaust system further emphasise the width of the car.

Interior Styling

In the S Model, depending on customer preference, the interior features grey contrasting seams on the AMG sports seats, door centre panels and door and centre armrests. Silver-coloured seat belts match the black interior while the Nappa leather steering wheel, which is flattened at the top and bottom, is finished with Alcantara on the grip areas. AMG crests are embossed into the head restraints of the AMG sports seats. Standard equipment includes AMG door sill panels backlit in white and power rear roller blinds. A Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround-sound system produces 1 200 W of power and includes 14 high-end speakers.

The Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG 4MATIC will be launched in the US in the first half of 2013. Its unclear whether the E63 AMG 4MATIC will become available in South Africa.

2013 Tokyo Auto Salon to excite with Nissan vehicles

Nissan is joining this years annual customisation and aftermarket tuner show at the 2013 Tokyo Auto Salon with a range of unique models. The Nissan stand will provide a mix of factory-tuned vehicles and history-making racecars which will be highlighted by Nissans New World of Customisation.

Nissan to show off 10 vehicles at 2013 Tokyo Auto Salon

Nissan will be showcasing the following vehicles at the 2013 Tokyo Auto Salon:

Juke Personalisation Concept Nissan will showcase a Juke that has been modified in a fun and fashionable way.
Note Personilisation Concept This exciting example will showcase the customised hot hatch and will feature a daring graphic motif that is called digital camouflage.
Juke Nismo The Juke Nismo was developed by Nismo, one of the worlds premiere motorsports organizations and factory-tuning divisions.
Nissan LEAF Nismo Performance Package Inspired by Nismo race machines, The LEAF Nismo features a special body kit with aerodynamic technology to improve overall stability and efficiency.
Fairlady Z Nismo Z-Challenge Spec This specially-built racecar comes complete with safety equipment and other parts necessary for motorsports and will compete in the single-spec race series called the Z-Challenge and provides a safe and thrilling way for racing enthusiasts to enjoy driving on a racetrack.
Motul Autech GT-R The Nissan GT-R won three out of eight races in the GT500 class of the 2012 Super GT Series. The S Road Mola GT-R won the Team Championships and Drivers Title for the second straight year.
Nissan GT-R Nismo GT3 The Nissan GT-R Nismo GT3 made its debut in March 2012 and is an improved version of the 2012 model with a higher engine output, increased reliability and enhanced aerodynamics. The racecar is in compliance with FIA GT3 regulations and will take part in the Super GT, Super Taikyu and the British GT Championship.
Nissan Deltawing The much acclaimed Deltawing racecar made its debut last year and uses half the fuel supply and tyres compared to a conventional racecar. The Deltawing competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans in June 2012 and finished 5th overall at the American Le Mans Series (ALMS) which took place in October 2012 in Atlanta, Georgia.
NV350 Caravan Rider Transporter The NV350 Caravan Rider is custom-built and features grand styling with notable cargo capacity and is considered to be a commercial van for the new generation. It is a capable workhorse but is also the ideal leisure and recreational vehicle for those with an active lifestyle.
Note Rider With its powerful exterior design, the Note Rider exhibits lots of flair for a compact car. The design is accentuated by a dark-plated front fascia and aluminum wheels which adds to its appeal.

The 2013 Tokyo Auto Salon will run from Friday 11 January until Sunday 13 January 2013 at the Makuhari Messe exhibition hall in Chiba Prefecture, Tokyo, Japan.