2013 Fiat 500C Abarth at LA Auto Show

Adding even more excitement to Karl Abarth’s line of small cars is the new 2013 Fiat 500C Abarth which recently made its debut at the 2012 LA Motor Show. The 500c Abarth combines turbocharged, track-capable performance with an open top design and features notable space for four passengers. Unfortunately, the 2013 Fiat Abarth 500c will not be available in South Africa.

?2013 Fiat 500C Abarth boasts exciting performance

Engine Capability?

The 2013 Fiat 500C Abarth is fitted with a 1.4-litre MultiAir Turbo engine that produces 119kW with a maximum torque figure of 230Nm. This engine is mated to a track-proven C510 5-speed manual transmission. Acceleration to 100km/h will take just over 7 seconds.

Exterior Styling Features

The exterior features of the 2013 Fiat 500C Abarth include a retractable, power-operated cloth roof top, triple-stripe, exterior mirrors available in four colours, bi-function halogen projector headlamps, front fog lights, 16 inch cast aluminium or 17-inch forged aluminium wheels available in Hyper Black or optional Bianco paint and a stiffer front and rear suspension set-up for improved handling.

Interior Styling Features

On the inside, the 2013 Fiat 500C Abarth features a perforated leather and flat-bottomed steering wheel, high-back performance bucket seats available in leather trim or high-grip cloth and firm side bolsters assembled with unique Rosso stitching. Further enhancements include aluminium covered pedals, an analogue turbo-boost gauge with an integrated LED shift light and a leather wrapped shift knob. Sound entertainment comes in the form of a New Beats by Dr. Dre audio system that includes six premium speakers, an 8-inch Dual-Voice Coil (DVC) subwoofer with the Beats Audio® Digital Sound Processing (DSP) algorithm.

Safety Features

Offering enhanced protection to all occupants in the event of a collision are seven standard air bags and a unique three-mode electronic stability control (ESC) system which is fitted as standard for improved braking performance in wet or panic conditions.

New Ford Fiesta ST confirmed for South Africa

Ford South Africa has confirmed that the new high performance Fiesta ST will be available in South Africa in the second quarter of 2013. The new Ford Fiesta ST will be powered by Ford’s 1.6-litre EcoBoost engine and according to Ford, will feature ‘unprecedented levels of equipment and specification’.

New Ford Fiesta ST packs performance punch

??Engine Capability

The 1.6-litre EcoBoost used in the new Fiesta ST will deliver 132kW with a maximum torque output of 240Nm. The Ford Fiesta St will accelerate to 100km/h in under seven seconds and reach a top speed of more than 220km/h.

The new Ford Fiesta ST was developed by Ford Team RS and delivers enhanced ride-and-handling with the introduction of a specially tuned chassis that sits 15mm lower than the standard Fiesta, Ford’s Torque Vectoring Control system and three Electronic Stability Control modes. These technologies were tested over 5 000km’s at Germany’s Nürburgring Nordschleife.

New Features

The new Ford Fiesta ST is fitted with Recaro sports seats as standard and will be equipped with MyKey and the Ford SYNC in-car connectivity system. The exterior will feature Ford’s latest design signatures including a large trapezoidal grille.

“We’re delighted to be bringing a new generation Fiesta ST to South African performance enthusiasts in 2013,” said Ford Marketing Manager Gavin Golightly. “With the Fiesta ST joining the new Focus ST, we will again be able to deliver a choice of affordable small performance cars that are designed to deliver a unique blend of stand-out styling and dynamic on-road performance with true practicality for everyday use.”

Third generation Porsche Cayman Coupe rolled out at LA Auto Show

The newly developed two-seat, Porsche Cayman Coupe made its debut at the 2012 LA Auto Show and will be launched in two versions namely the Cayman and Cayman S. According to Porsche, the new Cayman is lower, longer, lighter, faster and more efficient and powerful than before.

Porsche Cayman Coupe – Specifications and Features

Engine Capability?

The base model Porsche Cayman  Coupe is powered by a 2.7-litre flat six-cylinder engine that produces 205kW and accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 5.4 seconds depending on the equipment, and reaches a top speed of 266 km/h. Fuel consumption for this model is rated at 7.7-litres/100km when mated to Porsche’s PDK transmission.

The Cayman S produces 242kW with a 3.4-litre engine and accelerates from standstill to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds and can reach a top speed of 283 km/h. Fuel consumption is rated at 8.0-litres/100 km with Porsche’s PDK transmission. A six-speed manual transmission is fitted as standard and the PDK transmission is available as an option.

New Features?

The exterior is marked by precise lines and razor sharp sculpted edges which emphasize the car’s low, extended silhouette with the windscreen shifted forward and the roofline extending far back. The new Porsche Cayman Coupe rides on 18 and 19-inch diameter wheels.and features an extended wheelbase to enhance grip.

For the first time the Porsche Cayman Coupe will be available with Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and a specially developed Burmester sound system. The keyless entry and drive system is available as an option.

Volvo S60 Polestar Concept debuts at 2012 LA Auto Show

Volvo Cars Official Motorsport, in partnership with performance partner Polestar has developed the Volvo S60 Polestar Concept car which is currently being showcased at the LA Motor Show. The Volvo S60 Polestar Concept was built for one specific client, but a small series of Polestar modified S60’s may be built depending how it’s received by the market.

“The Volvo S60 Polestar Concept, is a car developed with our own preferences in mind which from experience we know are shared by a group of active drivers.” said Christian Dahl, founder and CEO of Polestar.

Volvo S60 Polestar Concept – Features and Specifications

Engine Capability?

The four-door Volvo S60 Polestar Concept was developed with the aim to combine a comfortable and genuine Volvo driving experience with a high level of power and handling. It is fitted with a turbocharged T6 inline six-cylinder engine designed to deliver a considerable increase in power and torque producing 379 kW at 6500rpm with a maximum torque figure of 575Nm and is mated to a manual 6-speed gearbox. Acceleration to 100km/h will take 3.9 seconds and the car will reach a top speed of more than 300km/h.

Interior and Exterior Styling Features?

On the inside, the Volvo S60 Polestar Concept features designed Alacantara sports seats with increased support and an Alcantara finished steering wheel and gear lever. The centre console has also been lowered for optimised gear-lever ergonomics.

The exterior of the Volvo S60 Polestar Concept features unique 19-inch alloy wheels, a quad performance 3.5-inch Ferrita stainless steel exhaust and a rear air diffuser and has a widened chassis, uprated brakes, Haldex four-wheel drive system and Ohlins 3-way shock absorbers.

Commenting on the driving experience of the Polestar, Robert Dahlgren, Volvo Polestar racing driver said, “To me the Volvo S60 is a very well sorted car from start. In our concept car we have developed chassis, engine and transmission just like we want it, and the result is a huge leap forward in terms of handling and performance. It is, by far, the most impressive street Volvo I’ve ever driven. But I must also say that the genuine Volvo feeling is still there.”

2014 Subaru Forester introduced at LA Motor Show

Subaru has lifted the wraps off its new 2014 Subaru Forester Crossover SUV at the 2012 LA Motor Show and can be expected in South Africa mid-2013. The new Forester features a new, bolder exterior design and a more spacious interior, while its performance and fuel economy has also been improved.

2014 Subaru Forester – Specifications and Features

??Engine Capability??

The new 2014 Subaru Forester will be fitted with either a 2.0-litre BOXER engine or a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre BOXER engine. The 2.0-litre, direct-injection turbocharged engine produces 186kW while the 2.5-litre engine produces 127kW. All new Forester models will also be equipped with Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive as standard.

The 2.5i model with Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) will achieve a combined fuel consumption figure of 8.7-litres/100km. The 2.5i model is also available with a new 6-speed manual transmission in addition to the CVT. For the 2.0-litre models, a high-torque version of the CVT is standard and features a 6-speed and 8-speed manual shift mode with steering wheel paddle switches.

?Exterior and Interior Styling Features

The exterior design of the 2014 Subaru Forester has been revised to include a sporty front bumper and a one-piece mesh-style grille with chrome-rimmed fog-light bezels. Being larger than the outgoing model, the new Forester offers more space for passengers, particularly in the rear seat area. The 2014 Subaru Forester is available with a touch screen navigation system that offers smartphone integration with Aha smartphone integration features. The navigation system and a 440W Harmon Kardon audio system is standard on the Touring models.

New Features

New features for the 2014 Subaru Forester includes a rear vision camera, colour multi-function display, power rear tailgate, Keyless Access and Start and EyeSight driver assist system which integrates Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Braking and Vehicle Lane Departure Warning using a stereo camera. All 2014 Subaru Forester models also include anti-whiplash front seats, a driver’s knee airbag, Brake Overide and an impact-sensing fuel system cutoff.

New Honda Brio unleashed in South Africa

The new Honda Brio hatchback has been launched in South Africa and offers a wide range of features and likable styling, at an affordable price. The India-built Honda Brio is available as the 1.2 Comfort and can be had with a choice of either a manual or automatic transmission.

New Honda Brio is dynamite in a small package

Engine Capability

The new Honda Brio hatchback is fitted with a 1.2-litre SOHC i-VTEC, 16-valve engine that develops 65kW at 6 000rpm with a maximum torque figure of 109Nm available from 4 500rpm. The Brio exhibits a combined fuel consumption figure of 5.6-litres/100km in 5-speed manual guise and 6.3-litres/100km with the 5-speed automatic transmission. CO2 emissions are rated at 133g/km and 150g/km for the manual and automatic respectively. The new Honda Brio will accelerate to 100km/h in 12.2 seconds with the manual and 14.7 seconds with the automatic transmission.

Exterior Styling

The exterior features a front chrome grille with a trademark double triangle which adds to its appeal. Character lines give the new Honda Brio a streamlined look while the rear-end features a glass tailgate which increases rear-view visibility and rear combination lamps merge with the rear hatch for a composite look. The Brio rides on 14-inch steel rims and a full-size spare wheel is also included.

Interior Styling

On the inside, the new Honda Brio features a sporty three-spoke steering wheel with mounted controls for the USB/AUX/MP3 audio system. The dual tone dashboard features chrome and silver accents while the steering wheel is tilt adjustable. The side mirrors are electrically adjustable and manual air-conditioning is also included. Storage options include a glove box, five cup holders, rear shelf and seat back pockets.

Safety Features

The new Honda Brio is equipped with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) as standard. The driver is protected with an intelligent SRS airbag and the seatbelts feature an automatic pre-tensioning system. Remote central locking and immobiliser add to the safety level of the Brio.

New Honda Brio – Price

Honda Brio 1.2 Comfort M/T R119 800
Honda Brio 1.2 Comfort A/T R129 800

Top 5 selling new cars in South Africa for November 2012

In November 2012, a total of 36 686 new passenger cars were sold in South Africa with Volkswagen holding majority of the market share in the passenger segment. However, in the Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) segment, a total of 13 949 units were sold in November with Toyota claiming the majority market share. The top five selling new vehicles across both segments are as follows.

1. Toyota Hilux – 3 100 units



South Africa’s favourite bakkie performed exceedingly well in November 2012, moving up into first place from fourth place in October 2012. The Hilux sold 817 units more compared to October 2012. The Toyota Hilux is available in three body styles namely Single Cab, Xtra Cab and Double Cab. A wide variety of engine options are available and prices range from R182 800 to R466 300, depending on the model. 



2. Volkswagen Polo Vivo – 2 697 units



The VW Polo Vivo moved into second place as South Africa’s best selling new car in November 2012 and sold 644 units less compared to October 2012. However, the VW Polo Vivo remains the best selling passenger car in South Africa for November. The Polo Vivo is offered as either a hatchback or sedan with various engine options available with power outputs ranging between 55kW and 77kW. Depending on the model, prices range from R108 300 for the 1.4-litre 2-door hatchback and R154 700 for the 1.6 Trendline sedan.



3. VW Polo – 2 376 units

The VW Polo remains to be a popular choice for new car buyers but has moved from second place in October to third place in November 2012. The VW Polo sold 457 units less compared to October 2012 but has however sold consistently well throughout 2012. The VW Polo is also offered as either a hatchback or sedan and prices start from R157 000 for the 1.4-litre Trendline to the top-of-the-range Polo GTI which is priced at R274 900.



4. Toyota Etios – 2 132 units

Since its launch in South Africa earlier in 2012, the Toyota Etios has been making waves in the new passenger car market and has proven to be a popular choice for entry-level car buyers. In November, the Etios sold 493 units less compared to October 2012 and moved from third place into fourth place in the sales rankings. The Etios is available as either a hatchback or sedan in two trim levels and prices start from R115 800 for the 1.5-litre Xi and R120 900 for the 1.5-litre Xs. The 1.5-litre Xi sedan sells for R121 800 while the 1.5-litre Xs sedan is priced at R126 600.



5. Chevrolet Utility – 1 667 units



The Chevrolet Utility maintains its position as South Africa’s fifth best selling vehicle. In November 2012, the Utility sold only 96 units less compared to October with its closest competitor being the Ford Ranger with 1 662 units sold. The Chevrolet Utility is available in three well equipped models with engine options including a 1.4-litre and a 1.8-litre petrol engine as well as a 1.3-litre diesel engine. Prices range from R119 900 for the Utility Base model to R142 700 for the Utility Club and R166 500 for the higher spec Utility Sport model. 



Click the link to view the Top 5 Selling New Cars in South Africa for October 2012

2014 Jaguar XFR-S Unleashed in LA

The 2014 Jaguar XFR-S, the fastest and most powerful Jaguar sedan ever, has been revealed at the LA Motor Show and is the second model in Jaguar’s ultra-high performance R-S range, following the XKR-S.

“Sporting character is evident in all Jaguar sedans. In the XFR-S that character has been amplified, the result being a truly engaging car with a combination of technical innovation, assertive design and staggering performance that will satisfy the most demanding of drivers,” said Adrian Hallmark, Global Brand Director, Jaguar.

2014 ??Jaguar XFR-S takes performance to a new level

??Engine Capability??

The 2014 Jaguar XFR-S sedan is fitted with a 5.0-litre supercharged V8 engine that produces 410kW with a maximum torque figure of 680Nm. These performance figures are made possible through revisions made to the engine management system and improvements made to the air intake and exhaust flow. Acceleration to 100km/h will take 4.6-seconds and the XFR-S will reach an electronically limited top track speed of 300km/h. This powerful engine is mated to a ZF 8-speed Quickshift automatic transmission.

Combined fuel consumption is rated at 13.0-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 270g/km. The 2014 Jaguar XFR-S is also equipped with an Intelligent Stop/Start system.

Exterior Styling Features

The 2014 Jaguar XFR-S features an uprated suspension system than delivers enhanced driving dynamics. The XFR-S rides on lightweight, forged 20-inch Varuna alloy wheels and features a new deeper front bumper that incorporates the lower central (carbon fibre) and side air intakes. Carbon fibre is also used for the front splitter at the lower edge of the bumper. Extended sills and aero blade mouldings are seen behind the front and rear wheels and enhance airflow.

The rear-end features an extended rear bumper that incorporates a central, carbon fibre diffuser that helps reduce lift. A rear spoiler manages airflow from the top of the vehicle. Two spoiler designs are available and the combined result of the bodywork revisions has resulted in a 68% reduction in overall lift.

Five exterior colours are available including French Racing Blue, Ultimate Black, Stratus Grey, Polaris White and Italian Racing Red.

Interior Styling Features

Various materials are used in the interior and these include carbon leather on the seat bolsters, and armrests while the fascia is finished in dark mesh aluminium. Contrasting colour stitching and micro piping adds a unique touch to the already sporty interior and can be matched to the exterior paint scheme.

The 2014 Jaguar XFR-S also features Warm Charcoal leather trim on the seats and doors. The seats are embossed with the R-S logo and can be finished with a choice of red, blue or ivory micro piping and contrasting stitching. The XFR-S is also fitted with an 825W, 18-speaker Meridian Surround Sound System that uses the proprietary Meridian Trifield System to place every occupant at the centre of the focussed surround-sound area.

Only 100 units will be made available in the US and it’s unclear whether the 2014 Jaguar XFR-S will be available in South Africa.

South African new car sales for November 2012

The National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (NAAMSA) has released South African vehicle sales for the month of November 2012. According to NAAMSA, November reflected another solid performance compared to November 2011, with an improvement of 7.3%. Total domestic sales for the eleven months of 2012 remained 9.8% ahead compared to the corresponding eleven months of 2012.

South African new vehicle sales summary for November 2012

  • Total November sales – 53 134 units (October 2012 – 57 845 units).
  • November sales down by 8% or 4 711 units compared to October 2012.
  • Year-To-Date sales 9.8% ahead compared to 2011.
  • November sales 7.3% or 3 636 units up compared to November 2011.
  • November export sales up by 8 088 units or 39.5%.
  • Total November new car sales – 36 686 units.
  • November new car sales down by 11.9% compared to October 2012.
  • November new car sales up by 3 615 units or 10.9% compared to November 2011.
  • Year-To-Date new car sales 11.6% ahead compared to 2011.

Despite signs of weakness in the economy, the South African automotive sector continues to show positive growth. Domestic sales were still supported by low interest rates, strong replacement demand, a competitive trading environment, attractive incentives and new model introductions. In terms of aggregate domestic sales, the automotive industry remained on track during 2012 for growth of around 10%.

Negative factors that could affect the industry in the medium term include a slow down in the economy, rising inflationary pressures and the weakness of the exchange rate. NAAMSA predicts that the modest new vehicle price increases experienced over the past two years might not be sustainable going forward and the industry can expect modest growth of between 6% and 8% in 2013.

Top 5 selling new vehicles – November 2012











Model Units Sold Compared to Oct ’12 Position change
1. Toyota Hilux 3 100 &#9650 817 &#9650 3
2. VW Polo Vivo 2 697 &#9660 644 &#9660 1
3. VW Polo 2 376 &#9660 457 &#9660 1
4. Toyota Etios 2 132 &#9660 493 &#9660 1

5. Chevrolet Utility 1 667 &#9660 96 Same


Most popular car brands – November 2012


Car Brand Volume Compared to Oct ’12 Market Share %
1. Toyota 11 240 &#9660 899 21.2
2. Volkswagen Group SA 9 056 &#9660 1 069 17
3. General Motors SA 5 997 &#9660 719 11.3
4. Ford Motor Company 4 779 &#9650 305 9
5. Nissan 4 569 &#9660 72 8.6

For the full release from Naamsa, click here

New 2013 Ford Fiesta Shown at LA Motor Show?

Ford is currently showcasing the new 2013 Ford Fiesta at the 2012 LA Motor Show. South African customers can expect to see the new Fiesta in showrooms early in 2013. The new Fiesta features revised styling and will feature Ford’s acclaimed 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine and will for the first time introduce the MyKey system which will allow owners to set parameters for younger drivers. A high-performance Fiesta ST derivative is also a strong possibility for South Africa.

New ??2013 Ford Fiesta boasts EcoBoost tech

Engine Capability

The new 2013 Ford Fiesta will be fitted with Ford’s 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine that will produce 91kW of power and return a fuel consumption figure in the region of 5.9-litres/100km. This engine allows for fuel economy gains of up to 20% with a 15% reduction in CO2 emissions.

The high-performance Fiesta ST will be fitted with a 1.6-litre EcoBoost engine that will produce 147kW and 290Nm of torque.

Exterior and Interior Styling Features??

The exterior design has been revised with the most notable difference coming in the form a sporty new grille that effectively reflects the new face of Ford. A range of new colour options will also be available.

The new 2013 Ford Fiesta will also be fitted with a range of in-car technology including a new MyFord Touch system that incorporates a 6.5-inch touch screen that features enhanced voice control and offers functionality for navigation, communication and entertainment. The Ford SYNC AppLink, which allows drivers to access and control Ford smartphone apps with voice commands and vehicle controls, is still available with the new Fiesta.

The new Fiesta will also be equipped with the MyKey feature which gives parents the opportunity to pre-set maximum speed and audio volume limits and will mute the audio system until seatbelts are fastened. Driver aids and safety systems cannot be deactivated when the MyKey system is in use.

Safety Features

The new 2013 Ford Fiesta will feature Advance Trac with Electronic Stability Control (ESC), dual-stage first-row airbags, driver knee airbag, side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags, four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH), Tyre pressure monitoring system, child-safety rear locks and an anti-theft engine immobiliser.

The new2013 Ford Fiesta can be expected in South Africa in the first-quarter of 2013.