BMW i3 Concept Coupe unveiled at 2012 LA Auto Show

BMW has unveiled its i3 Concept Coupe at the 2012 LA Auto Show this week, which forms part of an ongoing process to develop the first ever all-electric BMW i brand model for production. The three-door i3 Concept Coupe features dynamic styling and incorporates the BMW i ‘stream flow’ design philosophy.

??BMW i3 Concept Coupe is electric car of the future

The BMW i3 Concept Coupe utilises the electric version of BMW eDrive technology and is powered by an electric motor that develops 125kW and a peak torque figure of 250Nm. Power is delivered to the rear wheels using a single-speed transmission and the electric motor functions in conjunction with lithium-ion battery cells which are stored in the floor of the vehicle. The i3 Concept Coupe is designed to cover distances up to 160km on a full battery charge.

Efficiency of the BMW i3 Concept Coupe is enhanced with the three driving modes, namely COMFORT, ECO PRO and ECO PRO+. These various modes also help extend the vehicles range by up to 20%.

BMW i3 is serious about style

The passenger cell of the i3 Concept Coupe is made of Carbon Fibre-Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) while the drive system, chassis and energy storage unit are made of aluminium. The i3 Concept Coupe features a steeply raked windscreen while the roofline tapers gently to the rear, defining the overall silhouette of the vehicle. Long doors and frameless windows add to the coupe feel. The body work panels around the wheel arches, doors and rear sidewalls are finished in Solar Orange metallic which was specifically created for this vehicle and contrasts with the high-gloss black finish on the bonnet, roof, boot lid and the lower black body edge.

The side mirrors are specific to this model and are finished with black mirror bases and caps finished in Solar Orange metallic. The i3 Concept Coupe features 20-inch light alloy wheels with double-spoke design fitted with reduced rolling-resistance tyres.

??BMW i3 features mixed material interior

The exterior design is complemented with specific materials used in the interior including a mixture of leather, wood and wool elements. Manually-adjustable seats with integrated head restraints are upholstered in textured wool yarn and monofilament material. The i3 Concept Coupe features two individual rear seats which offer lounge-style comfort. The rear windows are large offering a feel of spaciousness for rear seat passengers.

Two displays are used to communicate vehicle information and facilitate the control of the infotainment and communication system. The navigation system is operated via the BMW i ConnectedDrive. A 16.5cm screen is positioned above the steering column and displays driving related information which appears in digital form. The second display screen, measuring 22.4cm, is positioned in the centre of the dashboard and is used to operate the navigation and infotainment systems. The use of BMW i ConnectedDrive, which was purpose-built for electric mobility applications powered by BMW eDrive technology, has meant that the BMW i3 Concept Coupe can be considered to be ‘the world’s first fully networked electric vehicle’.

Land Rover Freelander 2 gets major upgrades

The Land Rover Freelander 2 has received major upgrades for 2013 and now offers a new turbocharged petrol engine, new exterior and interior design features, a new ‘Dynamic’ derivative, new colours and upgraded equipment levels.

Land Rover Freelander 2 – Features and upgrades

New Engine

The Land Rover Freelander 2 is now available with a new 2.0-litre Si4 turbocharged petrol engine which replaces the outgoing 3.2-litre V6 engine. Although smaller in capacity, the new all-aluminium turbocharged 2.0-litre unit uses a low-inertia turbocharger that produces high-specific power and torque outputs. This unit produces 177kW at 5 500rpm with a maximum torque figure of 340Nm available from 1 750rpm.

Combined cycle fuel consumption for this new engine is rated at 9.6-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions rating of 224g/km. The 2.0-litre Si4 turbocharged engine will accelerate the Freelander 2 to 100km/h in 8.8 seconds while reaching a top speed of 200km/h.

??New Exterior Features

The updates to the Freelander range sees the addition of three new exterior colours namely Aintree Green, Mauritius Blue and Premium Metallic Havana and new 17-inch alloy wheel design is now available as option on S and SE derivatives. In terms of exterior styling, the Land Rover Freelander 2 features revamped front and rear LED lights with a new LED signature graphic in the front running lights, available on SE, Dynamic and HSE derivatives.

The grille and fog lamp bezels now feature a bright finish while the grille surround, insert bars and fender vent features paint detailing changes.

??New Interior Features

The interior of the Land Rover Freelander 2 now features a new centre console and the original Terrain Response dial has been replaced switches and a shutter for additional storage. The new ‘Dynamic’ derivative adds three new interior colours including Ebony, Ivory and Pimento with each featuring matching stitching and door casings.

The new instrument cluster features a 5-inch screen that displays information such as temperature, fuel levels, gear positions and Terrain Response. Toggle switches on the steering wheel allows the driver to operate the drop-menus and vehicle set-up details. Passive Start now replaces the key docking system and only requires the key to be in the car to start the car with the button.

A rear-view camera is available as standard on the HSE and optionally available on the SE and Dynamic derivatives. The rear camera view is displayed on a 7-inch infotainment screen that incorporates Hitch Assist which shows a superimposed image of the position of the tow ball.

The navigation system, which is standard on the HSE and available as an option on the SE and Dynamic derivatives, has been enhanced with a faster hard drive-based system and includes ECO Route planning, Dynamic Zoom, Visual Lane Guidance and Point Of Interest (POI) management. The ‘Say What You See’ voice activation system, which is part of the navigation system, prompts the driver visually with commands to control audio, satellite, navigation, climate and phone systems.

Powerful sound system

The Freelander 2 now for the first time features the premium Meridian Surround Sound audio system available with a choice of either 380W or 825W power outputs. The system incorporates a 7-inch colour touch-screen and is available with 11-speakers for the 380W system which is standard on SE, Dynamic and HSE derivatives. The optional 825W system uses 17-speakers with Trifield technology and both systems are equipped with subwoofers and a Audyssey MultEQ audio tuning system. A 80W 8-speaker unit with a 5-inch colour display is available for S derivatives.

The Land Rover Freelander 2 has earned a 5 star Euro NCAP safety rating and includes seven airbags including two curtain, two front, two thorax and a driver’s knee airbag.

Kia Rio Sedan 1,4 Tec (2012) Driving Impression

For every up-and-coming brand there are one or two models that finally break down those pesky barriers to mainstream acceptance. For Hyundai it was the Getz and Tucson. For Kia, very likely, it is the current Sportage and the latest Rio hatchback. Already a strong seller, the Rio hatch’s combination of attractive design, quality interior, comprehensive standard specification and back-up package (warranty and service plan) has made it a very significant rival to the likes of the Polo, Clio and Yaris. And now there’s a Kia Rio sedan version. Can this Korean brand’s run of success continue?

Class-leading desirability

Design is a very subjective matter, and complete agreement about the success or otherwise of a car’s visual appeal is a highly unlikely result. However, we’re yet to meet anyone who would not describe the Kia Rio sedan as the most attractive car in its class. In Tec trim it gets the same eye-catching LED light detailing and striking 17-inch alloy wheels as the hatchback, items that have played a big part in the Rio’s showroom success. But even without these features, the Kia Rio sedan’s basic shape remains attractive – it’s remarkably devoid of frilly detailing, but boasts some impressive sculpting along the sides and a very neatly integrated boot section with a steeply raked rear window. You can see that design boss Peter Schreyer didn’t allow his team to merely “tack” on the boot.

Inside, the major difference between the hatch and sedan is, of course, the emphasis on spaciousness. With a 2 570 mm wheelbase, the Kia Rio is not a cramped vehicle, but rear legroom is nevertheless not class-leading. Kia has prioritised boot space, with the resultant square and deep luggage compartment capable of swallowing around 400 L-worth of luggage. The rear seats also fold down to accommodate bigger items.

Front occupants sit behind the same attractive facia as Kia Rio hatch occupants would. Ultimately, the materials and fit and finish are not quite of the same grade as, for example, a VW Polo’s, but it’s close… and in terms of design and features the Kia Rio pulls ahead by a significant margin. The instrumentation is very sporty, with three overlapping dials, and there’s a row of very neat switches underneath the climate control panel. Most importantly, the Rio features an attractive leather-wrapped steering wheel as standard, and the spokes don’t only boast controls for the audio system, but also for the standard Bluetooth functionality. The driver’s positioning will also be spot-on for most, seeing as the steering wheel is adjustable for rake and reach.

Yes, indeed… the Kia Rio Tec has a very comprehensive specification level that also includes climate control, auto lights and wipers, electrically adjustable (and folding) mirrors, a top-notch radio/CD system and rear park assist. And although the Rio lacks an electronic stability system (ESP), the safety package is nevertheless up to class standard and includes six airbags and ABS/EBD.

No go to match the show

With its sporty looks the Kia Rio Tec does create certain performance expectations that it ultimately struggles to live up to. The 1,4-litre engine under the bonnet delivers a sufficient 79 kW, but the torque is relatively limited at 135 Nm. Not only that… the maximum torque figure is only available at a high 4 200 rpm, so you have to work that six-speed manual transmission to access the power band. Thankfully, the gearbox is a good one, with a slick, accurate shift action. The engine, however, starts to feel a little “thrashy” at higher revs, so venturing into the upper reaches of the rev range is not an entirely enjoyable exercise. Besides, the performance remains limited. A 0-100 km/h time of 11,5 seconds is probably on par for this segment, but the Kia Rio feels even slower than that on the road. And overtaking requires some planning at speeds near the national limit. The engine is, however, quite economical, with the consumption of figure of 6,4 L/100 km being achievable when the driver is economy focused. Aiding the economy (but not so much the performance) is the relatively light weight – 1 195 kg.

Dynamically, the Kia Rio claws back some lost ground. The steering may not offer much in the way of feel or feedback, but it’s reasonably accurate and body control is good. Thankfully, the good effort on the handling front has not come at the expensive of ride comfort, which is the more important dynamic aspect in this type of vehicle. The suspension remains supple and controlled on most surfaces, but perhaps there is slightly too much noise from the road and tyres that reach the cabin.

Kia Rio – Verdict

The compact sedan market is not exactly booming at present, with most consumers preferring the perceived greater versatility and sportiness of hatchbacks. If you do need a compact car with a boot, though, then this Kia Rio shoots straight to the top of its class. Yes, it may lack performance and there are one or two rough edges, but considering the overall packaging, design, specification and value, it’s a difficult-to-resist package. It’s another very strong new model from Kia, clearly a brand on the move.

We like:

  • Attractive looks
  • Standard specification
  • Build quality
  • Warranty and service plan


We don’t like:

  • Performance


Fast facts

Engine: 1,4-litre, four-cylinder, petrol
Power: 79 kW @ 6 300 rpm
Torque: 135 Nm @ 4 200 rpm
Transmission: Six-speed manual
Wheels: 17-inch alloy
Top speed: 183 km/h
0-100 km/h: 11,5 seconds
Fuel economy: 6,4 L/100 km

Source: www.um.co.za

Also consider:

  • Volkswagen Polo Sedan 1,4i Comfortline: The Polo still feels like the slightly more refined car, especially in terms of its drivetrain, but the Kia Rio pulls ahead on specification and features. The Volkswagen’s engine also lacks power compared with the Korean.
  • Hyundai Accent 1,6 Fluid: New on the market and essentially the Kia’s sibling, but the Rio is the more impressive offering. Although the Hyundai has the performance edge, it can’t match the Kia’s specification and, especially, its cool design features.
  • Chevrolet Sonic 1,6 LS: Bowtie-badge or not, this is another strong Korean contender… The Sonic may look somewhat bizarre, but it’s priced well and the interior fit and finish, as well as the comfort levels, are very good. More refined than you’d think.

 

Mazda CX-5 2,0 Active (2012) Driving Impression

Whereas a few years ago any serious motor manufacturer would ensure it had a C- (Corolla-sized) or D-segment (Passat-sized) sedan in its stable, increasingly the consumers who previously bought these cars are craving something else altogether, the compact SUV. Following the success of particularly the first Toyota RAV4 models in the ‘90s, most manufacturers have already introduced the second- or third-generation derivatives of their respective rivals, but not Mazda… The Japanese brand has left its entry rather late. Can the new Mazda CX-5 make an impact, or has Mazda missed the boat?

Neat, upmarket design

The CX-5 replaces the edgy and larger CX-7 model in South Africa and also introduces the brand’s new Kodo design language. It’s an attractive, if unspectacular offering in its base Active trim, mostly because it makes do without any brightwork. There is no chrome to brighten things up, only lots of black plastic cladding. There are also no fog lamps and, worst of all, no alloy wheels! The CX-5 rides on 17-inch steel items that unfortunately are not acceptable at this price level. All that said, the CX-5 is not unattractive, with a very noticeable wedge shape due to the steeply rising waistline and a particularly attractive rear end with an integrated spoiler.

It’s a similar hit-and-miss story inside, where the build quality is exceptional and the solidity perhaps unparalleled in this segment, but the design is not special and it lacks some key features. But let’s focus on the good news first. Besides the quality of it all, we really like the driving position – the driver’s chair boasts generous vertical adjustability and the steering wheel also offers rake/reach adjustment. Mazda is always good at  making the driver feel connected with a car, and they’ve done the same here. More good news is the design of the instrumentation – the three dials look superb and sporty, and the dial on the far right contains a digital readout that endows the otherwise straightforward facia with a sense of sophistication.

But… the audio system looks like an aftermarket item and also slightly old-fashioned with its orange readouts. And then there are the specification oversights. Given the price of the CX-5, the plastic steering wheel is not acceptable, and the lack of a luggage cover is a security concern. What you do get, however, are; air-conditioning, electric mirrors/windows, radio/CD with USB/aux support, multi-function steering wheel, six airbags and ESP (electronic stability system). Cruise control, park distance control and other such items are not offered on this model. The seats are upholstered in good-looking and comfortable cloth.

In defence of the CX-5, however… the lack of some features has not made it an uncomfortable vehicle to spend time in. The wheelbase is long (2 700 mm), and so rear legroom is very impressive. The boot, too, is big at 403 L. As is to be expected, the rear seats can fold down to allow for the transportation of bigger items.

Introducing Mazda’s SkyActiv

The CX-5 is the first local offering to feature Mazda’s much-hyped SkyActiv efficiency boosting “features”. Essentially, SkyActiv refers to a package of “optimisations”, rather than any groundbreaking technology. For example, lightweight construction is an important part of the SkyActiv measures and, indeed, at 1 415 kg the CX-5 is not heavy for its size. The 2,0-litre petrol engine, too, has been optimised to achieve better fuel consumption. In essence, SkyActiv is Mazda’s short- to medium-term response to the hybrids and turbodiesel models on offer from rivals. Does it work?

Well… as is the case with the hybrids out there, it really comes down to driving style. Shift early and drive lazily, and you may come relatively close to the quoted 6,8 L/100 km consumption figure, but a more likely average is closer to 8,5. Why? The CX-5’s efficiency goals notwithstanding, there’s still plenty of the company’s Zoom-Zoom character on display, too, so it likes to rev, and it encourages enthusiastic driving. The impressive 0-100 km/h time of 9,3 seconds is evidence of this. With its slick and robust-feeling transmission, this is a compact SUV that is enjoyable to drive and which encourages you to explore the upper reaches of its power delivery – this, in turn, means it drinks more fuel…

Great ride/handling balance

Another area in which Mazda usually excels is in the handling department. In a compact SUV’s case, however, ride comfort is the more important consideration and the CX-5 must be applauded for the balance it manages to find. The multi-link, control-blade rear suspension arguably plays a big role, as do the relatively high-profile tyres. The Mazda remains supple and controlled on most road surfaces and even when pushed displays admirable body control for what it is.

Like most 4×2 versions of compact SUV line-ups, this CX-5 has no off-road ambitions, and the ground clearance is a relatively limited 150 mm.

Mazda CX-5 – Verdict

In a sense the CX-5 is a disappointment – the basic design is good and the ride/handling in particular is outstanding. But some of the missing features are hard to stomach at this price level, and there’s been too much hype about SkyActiv. In reality the CX-5 should be seen as the entry level version of a near-premium product because the quality and refinement are exceptional. Focus on what makes the CX-5 great, and the omissions are easier to forgive.

We like:

  • Attractive exterior design
  • Cabin space
  • Build quality
  • Ride comfort


We don’t like:

  • Lacks some key features
  • Expensive

Fast facts

Engine: 2,0-litre, four-cylinder, petrol
Power: 114 kW @ 6 000 rpm
Torque: 200 Nm @ 4 000 rpm
Transmission: Six-speed manual
Wheels: 17-inch steel
Top speed: 197 km/h
0-100 km/h: 9,3 seconds
Fuel economy: 6,8 L/100 km

Source: www.um.co.za

Also consider:

  • Volkswagen Tiguan 1,4 TSI BlueMotion Trend & Fun: Deservedly popular and offers a similar package to the Mazda, but is not quite as spacious. Impressive performance/economy balance and excellent ride and handling.
  • Hyundai ix35 2,0 Premium: One of the country’s top-selling compact SUVs and it’s easy to see why – attractive design, a good standard specification and a long warranty are the key attractions. Not quite as solid and refined as the Mazda and VW, though.
  • Nissan Qashqai 2,0 Acenta n-tec: Another very difficult rival – the Qashqai is already a comfortable and well-built compact crossover in standard form, and gains extra desirability with the n-tec limited edition package which, among other items, adds striking 18-inch wheels.

Jaguar XF and XJ get more engine choice for 2013

Jaguar has announced that it will introduce two forced-induction petrol engines to its range for the 2013 model year. A new 3.0-litre V6 supercharged petrol engine will be offered for both the Jaguar XF and XJ models while a new four-cylinder 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine will replace the naturally aspirated 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine of the XF. Both engines will be available with Jaguar’s Intelligent Stop-Start system.

Adrian Hallmark, Global Brand Director, Jaguar Cars, said “Jaguar currently has its strongest range of products for several decades. Our continued growth is dependent on two things; activating the awareness of the brand, and expanding our range to enable us to access new customers in both existing and emerging markets. The introduction of these two additional forced-induction petrol engines is integral to this ambitious plan.”

New Engines for Jaguar XF and XJ – Specifications

??3.0-litre V6 supercharged petrol engine

The new 3.0-litre V6 supercharged petrol engine available for theJaguar XF and XJ models is based on Jaguar’s award-winning 5.0-litre V8 engine and produces 250kW at 6 500rpm and 450Nm of torque at between 3 500 and 5 000rpm. This engine features technologies used in the 5.0-litre V8 such as direct injection, variable valve timing and aluminium construction which produces greater specific output and efficiency.

In the Jaguar XF, the new 3.0-litre V6 will allow for a 0-100km/h sprint time of 5.9 seconds while reaching a limited top speed of 250km/h. Fuel consumption is rated at 9.4-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 224g/km. Identical figures remain true when this unit is used in the XJ model. This engine is complemented with an eight-speed automatic ZF-transmission.

2.0-litre i4 turbocharged petrol engine

The 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine will replace the XF’s 3.0-litre V6 in 2013. This unit produces 177kW and 340Nm of torque and incorporates low-inertia turbocharging, direct fuel-injection and variable valve timing. This engine will accelerate the Jaguar XF to 100km/h in 7.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 241km/h. Combined cycle fuel consumption is rated at 8.9-litres/100km and with a CO2 emissions figure of 207g/km. This unit is also mated to an eight-speed automatic ZF transmission.

The efficiency of these engines are further enhanced with Jaguar’s Intelligent Stop-Start system which improves fuel consumption by up to seven percent on the EU combined cycle.

Ron Lee, Group Chief Engineer Powertrain, Jaguar Cars, said “Both the 3.0 V6 S/C and 2.0 Turbocharged make intelligent use of forced-induction technology to produce high-specific output in an efficient way, while delivering the compelling combination of flexibility, refinement and driver reward that are integral attributes in all Jaguar engines.”

2014 Ford Fiesta to get MyFord Touch infotainment system

Ford has announced that it will offer the MyFord Touch infotainment system for the 2014 Ford Fiesta. The MyFord Touch infotainment system builds on the success of the familiar Ford SYNC in-car connectivity system and features improved voice recognition, navigation and phone pairing.

??New Features for 2014 Ford Fiesta

The MyFord Touch infotainment system will be paired with a new 6.5-inch LCD touch screen and will feature simplified Bluetooth phone pairing and more natural voice recognition. For example, drivers now only have to say ‘play’ when requesting a specific artist, song, album or genre of music. The system also uses the latest version of Nuance’s speech software, VoCon 3200 V4.2 which improves overall voice recognition performance.

A flattened audio command structure allows users to simply access audio sources such as ‘Radio’ and ‘Sirius’. Users now only have to say ‘AM 760’ or ‘CNN’ to access those sources. Navigation controls have also been simplified with an improved destination entry screen that makes it easier to enter a destination address.

More than five million vehicles have been sold with the Ford SYNC in-car connectivity system since its launch in 2008 and the MyFord Touch infotainment system seeks to make technology affordable and accessible to everyone.

“Technology features are important to all of our customers including small car buyers, and MyFord Touch continues to drive up purchase consideration of our vehicles. MyFord Touch is appealing to customers, as it consistently ranks among the top 10 purchase considerations with new owners. We’re excited to bring it to the small car segment, where it will really help Fiesta stand out from the crowd” says Michelle Moody, Ford cross-vehicle marketing manager.

How to pack your car this holiday

As the holiday season approaches, many South Africans are preparing to take to the roads to reach destinations around the country. When it comes to packing a vehicle, motorists should take care to pack their vehicles correctly to ensure the safety of all passengers and other road users. Goodyear has provided some handy tips for packing your car, here’s what you need to know.

Car packing tips

  • Safety first – Avoid carrying passengers unrestrained due to large, bulky items. Install child seats before packing the vehicle as you may not be able to do so once the vehicle is loaded. Passenger safety and comfort always comes first.
  • ‘Last in, first out’ – Be mindful of ‘must haves’ and pack all the items you will need during your journey last. This will ensure that they are easily accessible on the road when you need them. Make sure you have enough food, drinks, nappies, medicine and kids entertainment to last the duration of your journey.
  • Secure luggage – Avoid loose items around the driver’s feet. Always pack heavier items at the bottom of the boot and as far forward as possible to lower the centre of gravity. Do not store luggage items in the passenger cabin as these could be dangerous in an emergency situation.

    

“Tests of leading automotive clubs have illustrated how dangerous a simple glass bottle or kids’ toy can become during an emergency braking situation. An item that seems to be light at first sight accelerates enormously in the event of emergency braking – even at relatively low speeds, hitting front passengers with a multiple of its actual weight,” says Liz Hayward, Goodyear Group Brand Communications Manager.

  • Avoid over packing – Avoid packing above the line of the back seats. Over packing can reduce the driver’s rear vision and loose luggage items can be dangerous in an emergency braking situation. Use a cargo net to secure the luggage or as an alternative, use a trailer, roof racks or a roof box for additional luggage items.
  • Plan for a puncture – If you don’t have RunOnFlat tyres fitted to your car, ensure that you get all passengers to a safe place before preparing to change a tyre or calling for help.
  • Roof Packing – Care should be taken to consider the extra height, weight and resistance when loading items onto the roof of your car. Roof loads increase drag and roof luggage should be stored in a roof box with respect to the weight restrictions of the car.
  • Pets – To ensure the safety of pets and passengers in the event of an emergency situation, keep all pets secured using a safety harness or transport them in well-ventilated crates.
  • Adjust Driving – The manoeuvrability of a vehicle changes when heavily loaded. The extra baggage and additional passengers’ means there are more distractions, less visibility and the stopping distance of the vehicle is much longer.

Remember, obey the rules of the road, respect other road users and don’t drink and drive.




E Toll bill withdrawn in Parliament

The highly controversial transport laws and related matters amendment bill was withdrawn on Thursday 22 November from the National Assembly. The ANC asked that two resolutions paving the way for the bill be withdrawn. No reasons were given for the action and the request was approved by the House.



A memorandum attached to the bill includes provisions that are essential to implement e-tolling and the Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project (GFIP) as well as other proposed road and infrastructure projects in South Africa. 



Ian Ollis, DA spokesperson said that “pressure from opposition parties has pressed the ANC to withdraw. This means that the Gauteng e-toll will not be the anticipated lump of coal in Christmas stockings this year.” 



Buckling under pressure



After a call by DA chief whip Watty Watson which was supported by other parties, and a threat by the opposition to stage a walkout during the debate on the e-toll bill, the ANC withdrew the bill.

The e-toll debate will be carried over into the new year and will be re-considered when Parliament reconvenes on 10 February 2013. The bill will then be sent to the National Council of Provinces.

“This is indeed a victory for opposition parties and the South African public. We will be monitoring the situation closely to ensure that all proper processes are followed when this bill is considered by Parliament in 2013 and that adequate public participation has taken place through the NCOP,” Ollis said.

New Jaguar XFR-S headed for LA Auto Show debut

The new Jaguar XFR-S sedan will be unveilled at the Los Angeles Auto Show at the end of this month. The new Jaguar XFR-S is considered to be the ‘fastest and most powerful sedan Jaguar has ever produced. The new Jaguar F-TYPE and 2013 Range Rover will also be shown.

New Jaguar XFR-S, F-TYPE and Land Rover models on show

In addition to the global debut of the new Jaguar XFR-S at the LA Auto Show, Jaguar will be introducing the new F-TYPE in Black Pack performance trim. The rear-wheel drive, two-seat, soft-top convertible sports car is built on a lightweight aluminium architecture and delivers a pure sports car experience. First unveiled at the 2012 Paris Motor Show, the F-TYPE is powered by a 335kW/450Nm 3.0-litre supercharged V6 engine while the F-TYPE V8 S is powered by a 488kW/624Nm 5.0-litre supercharged V8 engine.

Jaguar Land Rover will also be showcasing the new 2013 Range Rover which is the world’s first SUV to feature a lightweight all-aluminium body. The US spec version will be powered by a 5.0-litre V8 engine and weighs up to 380kg’s less than the outgoing model.

Details regarding the specifications of the new Jaguar XFR-S sedan will be made available on the 28 November 2012 at the LA Auto Show.

Geely MK2 limited edition for South Africa

Chinese car manufacturer, Geely South Africa has launched the limited edition Geely MK2 hatchback in South Africa which is now offered with a range of additional safety and luxury features. The Geely MK2 1.5 GL Limited is now available from Geely dealerships nationwide, at an affordable price.

“Our products are fast becoming better – better performance, better safety and most of all better value for money,” says Henri Meistre, Managing Director of Geely South Africa.

??Geely MK2 Limited Edition offers value for money

Engine Capability

The Geely MK2 1.5 GL Limited Edition is fitted with a 1.5-litre DOHC 16-valve engine that produces 69kW and 128Nm of torque and is mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox. Average fuel consumption is rated at 7.3-litres/100km and the MK2 Limited has a range of 600km on a full 45-litre tank of fuel. The MK2 has a top speed of 165km/h.

Standard Features??

The Geely MK2 1.5 GL Limited Edition comes with power steering, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), electric windows, central locking, air-conditioning, Radio/CD player with MP3 and USB ports, alloy wheels, driver’s airbag and a Reverse Radar to assist with parking.

The Geely MK2 1.5 GL Limited is also fitted with a customised leather interior, a sport tuned exhaust system, lowered suspension and vinyl decals.

“The MK2 was specifically upgraded for the South African market, and is in high demand as we were only assigned a limited number of these outstanding value-for-money offerings,” says Meistre.

Geely MK2 Limited – Price

Geely MK2 1.5 GL Limited – R109 990

Price includes a 3-year/100 000km warranty with AA Roadside Assistance. A 2-year/60 000km, 3-year/90 000km and 4-year/120 000km service plan are available as an option.