Land Rover DC100 Concept Revealed

The Land Rover DC100 and DC100 sport concepts are laying the foundation for the potential replacement to their ever-popular Defender. These two concept vehicles will arrive at the Los Angeles Auto Show, with the intention of gauging the North American response to the vehicles, and ultimately whether or not the Defender will be returning to the States.

Land Rover DC100 points to the future

The Land Rover DC100 concept comes with all the rugged and adventurous spirit of the Defender, along with a glimpse into how the vehicle will evolve for the future. The concepts come with 20-inch alloy wheels, Cooper all-terrain tyres, raised air-intake snorkel and roof rack. There are also; short overhangs, an upright windscreen, strong shoulder line and round headlamps with prominent grill, stock features of the Defender.

More interestingly though, the Land Rover DC100 concept comes with a Terrain Response system, which will automatically optimize the vehicle for the conditions it is being driven on, without the need for driver pre-selection. There is also a Terrain-i system which creates an intelligent map of the topography in front of the vehicle, which is then displayed as a 3D representation. This technology will automatically identify potential hazards and suggest routes. Rather cleverly, the same system can be used in urban environments to identify pedestrians and other hazards.

Another hint at the future of the brand comes with the ‘Wade Aid’ system. This system uses sensors mounted in the bumpers and wing mirrors to measure water depth and can automatically raise the ride height, select a lower gear and advise on the safest speed to ensure the vehicle makes it through the water.

Look for more information on the Land Rover DC100 and DC100 Sport concepts as it becomes available.

New Toyota Auris Hybrid launched in South Africa

The new Toyota Auris Hybrid has launched in South Africa and marks the company’s first introduction of their Hybrid Synergy Drive (HSD) technology in a mainstream model. The Hybrid Auris comes with a 1.8 litre VVT-i petrol engine as well as an electric motor.

New Toyota Auris Hybrid is frugal and practical

Both of these engines combine to propel the new Toyota Auris Hybrid from 0-100km/h in 11.4 seconds before capping out at a top speed of 188km/h. Max torque for the vehicle is impressive at 142 Nm at 4000rpm from the petrol engine, with 207 Nm max torque from the electric motor. The electric motor produces 60 kW and works as a generator during deceleration and braking to regenerate energy. This ultimately means that there is never a need to recharge the battery from an external source.

As you would expect in a hybrid, the Auris HSD has some impressive fuel economy. Toyota notes that at 3.8 litres/100km average fuel consumption, the fuel economy of the car is the best in its class. Also impressive is the CO2 emissions rating, which comes in at 89g/km.

Driving options available include: Normal mode, EV, ECO and POWER. The EV mode will automatically kick in at speeds under 50km/h while the vehicle is in Normal mode, which runs the vehicle only on electric. Eco mode reduces the throttle responsiveness which will further increase fuel economy. Power mode, as you would expect, increases throttle responsiveness and comes with improved acceleration and power.

New Toyota Yaris from R124 000

The new Toyota Yaris is now officially here in South Africa and comes with a completely new design. Toyota has improved almost everything on the vehicle to ensure that it out-does the current Yaris, which was itself, a very successful car.

New Toyota Yaris gets pretty facelift

The styling has been changed to be more bold and strong, while still maintaining a sporty look. Toyota notes how the styling has been made more ‘masculine’ to directly appeal to young male drivers. The new Yaris is the first vehicle in Toyota’s lineup to feature the new face of the brand. This face includes: a protruding nose with slim horizontal headlights and unusual headlamp eyebrows. The radiator grille resembles a ‘smile’ along with an ‘open-mouth’ deep lower air intake combine to give the vehicle a wide stance.

In place of traditional windscreen wipers, the new Yaris has just a single wiper. This wiper includes a wet-arm system, which sprays the washer fluid along the blades base.

The inside of the new Toyota Yaris has been styled around the notion of ‘fun to drive’. This is represented by sportier instrument panels, which are in analogue format now, and have been moved directly in front of the driver. The Horizontal lines of the dashboard give the interior a generous width, which has been increased by 30mm. There is also a soft-padded dash section with matching upper door panels which give the vehicle a more upmarket feel.

Improved Engines

The new Toyota Yaris is still available as a 1.0 litre or 1.3 litre petrol engines but both have been improved. The engines have been designed with Toyota Optimal Drive, which is a series of engineering as well as design implementations that have improved the fuel consumption figures of the car.

The 3-cylinder 1.0 VVT-I petrol engine comes with a 5-speed manual transmission and generates 51 kW at 6000rpm and a max torque of 93 Nm. It is able to complete 0-100km/h in 15.3 seconds and its fuel consumption clocks in at just 5.1 litres/100km at a combined cycle.

The 1.3 litre Dual VVT-I engine has been completely redesigned which has resulted in a power increase of 16% when compared to the previous version. This engine pushes out 73 kW at 6000rpm and has a max torque of 125 Nm at 4000rpm. 0-100km/h takes 11.7 seconds while the combined cycle fuel consumption comes in at 5.6 litres/100km. The 1.3 litre variants come with a 6-speed manual transmission.

The new Toyota Yaris comes with a host of safety features, including up to 7 airbags as well as Toyota’s WIL (whiplash injury lessening) technology. This technology is featured in the seats of the car and will support the head and body simultaneously, in an effort to reduce whiplash in the event of an accident.

New Toyota Yaris – Price

Toyota Yaris 1.0 Xi 3-door – R124 000
Toyota Yaris 1.0 Xr 5-door – R157 900
Toyota Yaris 1.3 Xi 3-door – R157 000
Toyota Yaris 1.3 Xr 5-door – R200 600

New Chevrolet TrailBlazer revealed in Dubai

Chevrolet chose the Dubai International Motor Show to debut the new TrailBlazer. The new Chevrolet TrailBlazer is a 7-seater SUV but comes with the ride comfort as well as the efficiency of a crossover. The TrailBlazer shares design elements with the Chevrolet Colorado, as they were developed together.

Big engine for new Chevrolet TrailBlazer

Under the hood is a 2.8 litre turbo-diesel engine, with a variable-geometry turbocharger, which has resulted in optimal performance and efficiency. Style-wise, the TrailBlazer has a dramatic power dome on the hood, as well as a raised cowl which results in a strong and imposing appearance. The dual projector headlamps are positioned below the power dome, which further emphasizes the strong look of the vehicle.

Other exterior features include a dual-port grille, which contains a 3-d grille mesh. Adding to it is a polished aluminum décor trim in the fascias, rockers, belt line, tailgate and roof rack. The exterior paint is tri-coat pearlescent white and has integrated LED front and rear fog lights.

The good news for South Africans is that the new Chevrolet Trailblazer is being launched here, with specific trimming, models, specs and pricing being revealed at a later stage.

Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Coupe in South Africa

The new Mercedes-Benz  C 63 AMG Coupe has been released in South Africa. The C 63 AMG Coupe is a high-performance vehicle with sporty design and dynamic handling. Mercedes-Benz notes how with all the vehicle’s improvements, especially in performance, the C 63 AMG is looking to take the lead in its segment.

Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Coupe sets the benchmark

The new Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Coupe is fitted with a 6.4 litre V8 which produces a maximum of 336 kW and a max torque of 600 Nm. This beast of an engine allows the C 63 AMG to complete 0-100km/h in just 4.4 seconds before capping off at an electronically limited top speed of 250km/h. Fuel consumption has also been looked at and improved, largely thanks to the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7 speed sports transmission, which has a “Controlled Efficiency” mode. The overall fuel consumption figures clock in at 12.0 litres/100km.

Features

The Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Coupe comes with AMG sports suspension as well as AMG high-performance braking system. The braking system has internally ventilated and perforated brake discs on all the wheels, which results in outstanding responsiveness, short stopping distance and excellent fatigue strength. The vehicle also comes with AMG sports speed-sensitive power steering and 3-stage ESP, which includes: ESP ON, ESP Sport handling and ESP OFF.

Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Coupe – Price

Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Coupe – R923 700

Performance Package – R71 800

Driver’s Package – R25 600.

The Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Coupe comes with MobiloDrive 120, 6 years/120 000km maintenance plan and full vehicle warranty of 2 years/unlimited km.

New Audi A4 revealed

The new Audi A4, one of the company’s best sellers, has once again been enhanced with improvements to the cars efficiency, driving dynamics, design and infotainment. The 8th generation Audi A4 builds upon the immensely successful vehicle which has sold 10 million units around the world.

Superb styling and refinement for the new Audi A4

The design of the new Audi A4 comes with horizontal lines on the front end that have been further accentuated, along with an engine hood that is more arched. The bumper has been redesigned and now come with angular air inlets, a revised grille and flat front fog lights. The headlights have also gone under the knife and have a slight wave at the bottom edges.

The interior of the new Audi A4 models has also been refined. Audi offers a wide selection of new steering wheels with chrome and high-gloss inlays, with the leather sport steering wheel also featuring a flattened lower rim. The upholstery range has also been revised, with Fine Nappa leather replacing Valcona leather. The new, single-part cluster trim has been adapted in color to the interior, while the inlays are available in Aluminum Trigon, walnut dark brown and fine grain ash natural.

Efficient Engines

Fuel consumption has been further improved with the new Audi A4. The consumption levels have dropped by 11 percent on average, despite the increased power and torque of many of the engines. In the Sedan and the Avant each, Audi offers any of six TDI and four gasoline engines, with 23 possible engine-transmission combinations. All engines are supercharged direct-injection systems; the start-stop system and the recuperation system are standard throughout.

The most economical variant in the model family is the Audi A4 2.0 TDI with 100 kW (136 hp). In the Sedan, this engine needs only 4.2 liters of fuel per 100 km (56.0 US mpg) on average – a CO2 equivalent of just 112 grams per km (180.25 g/mile). The new Audi A4 2.0 TDI with 120 kW (163 hp), also optimized for maximum efficiency, manages with 4.4 liters of diesel per 100 km (53.46 US mpg). This equates to 115 grams CO2 per km (185.07 g/mile). Both engines are available for the Sedan and the Avant.

More information, including pricing will be available closer to the release date.

2012 Opel Astra OPC Revealed

The new and improved 2012 Opel Astra OPC will arrive in 2012 and comes with some impressive performance. The vehicle was thoroughly tested on the famous Nurburgring in Germany, to ensure it produced superb handling and a dynamic driving experience.

Fast and sporty 2012 Opel Astra OPC unleashed

The new 2012 Opel Astra OPC comes with a 2.0 direct injection turbo petrol engine, which produces 206 kW (280 hp) and a max torque of 400 Nm. This translates into a top speed of 250km/h, which Opel note is a record for the Astra.

The Astra OPC comes with HiPerStrut front-wheel suspension as well as FlexRide chassis control system. The FlexRide system allows the driver to sharpen the shock absorber line, the steering and the gas pedals responsiveness. Lastly, the Astra OPC comes with a limited slip differential on the front axle, which has further improved stability and handling, even in wet conditions.

The styling of the  2012 Opel Astra OPC certainly emphasizes its muscles. This comes in the form of sculpted front and rear bumpers, side skirts, an aerodynamic roof spoiler and twin exhaust pipes. Inside the Astra are performance seats, and an OPC sports leather steering wheel.

Look for more information on the 2012 Opel Astra OPC as it becomes available.

New Kia Rio coming to SA

The new Kia Rio had its debut at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show and is now ready to hit South Africa. The new Rio follows on with Kia’s new strikingly modern design theme. The previous model Rio had a lot of success around the world and Kia note how it will be a difficult act to follow. They also note that by 2014 the demand for B-segment cars will increase to 14 million units, so it is vitally important they have a vehicle that can compete in the market.

New Kia Rio comes with more space

The new Kia Rio will be available in a choice of 2 body styles, a 5-door model and a 4-door sedan. The 4-door will only be available in early 2012 though. The 5-door model is longer and lower than the previous model and has an extended wheelbase. This has increased both the cargo capacity of the vehicle as well as the passenger space.

Under the hood, there is a choice of 2 engines; a 1.2 litre and a 1.4 litre. The 1.2 litre is a 4-cylinder engine and produces 65 kW at 6000 rpm and 120 Nm of torque at 4000 rpm. The 1.4 litre engine is also a 4-cylinder and produces 79 kW at 6300 rpm and 135 Nm of torque at 4200 rpm.

Exterior colour options in the new Rio include: Solid – Clean White, and nine Metallics – Bright Silver, Graphite Grey, Black, Fresh Beige, Caramel Yellow, Electronic Blue, Signal Red, Deep Blue and Wendy Brown.

New Kia Rio – Price

Kia Rio – From R136,995 for the 1.2 MAN up to R178,995 for the 1.4 TEC Auto

New Peugeot 508 in South Africa

The new Peugeot 508 sedan has been launched in South Africa as Peugeot look at elevating the brand with a quality and forward-thinking car. Peugeot mention that the 508 is aimed at drivers who are demanding, dynamic and responsible.

New Peugeot 508 – Features

The new Peugeot 508 design was first seen on the SR1 concept car, and is characterized by a single grille, flanked by directional bi-Xenon headlights and LED ‘tubes’ (available on the 508 GT). The tail light clusters feature 3 red “claws” that contain 3 rows of 6 LEDs to give the new Peugeot 508 a unique look.

Inside the new Peugeot 508 are a number of sophisticated technologies, including a colour Head-Up display, which is standard on the GT and optional on all Allure model variants. The GT and Allure models also come with 4-zone aircon, hands free access and startup, automatic electric parking brake and an electronically-operated lumbar massage for the driver (only available in the GT version).

Engine options in the new Peugeot 508 range come in the form of a 1.6, a 2.0 and a 2.2 litre. The 1.6 litre THP petrol engine produces 115 kW, with the 2.0 litre HDi turbodiesel engine producing 120 kW. At the top of the pile is the 2.2 litre HDi engine which produces 150 kW and 450 Nm of torque.

New Peugeot 508 Price in South Africa

508 Active 1.6 Petrol THP R 283 700
508 Active 2.0 HDi R 303 200
508 Allure 1.6 THP Auto R 306 700
508 GT 2.2 HDi Auto R 409 900

Pricing includes a three-year/100 000 km warranty, and a five-year/100 000 km maintenance plan. Servicing is at 20 000 km/12-month intervals.

Ford Fiesta ST concept shown in LA

Ford originally debuted the new Fiesta ST at the Frankfurt Motor Show, and now they have the updated version at the L.A. Auto Show. The most striking change seen in the Ford Fiesta ST concept is the number of doors, the latest version now comes in 5-door. The Fiesta ST concept is inspired by the Ford Fiesta RS and Fiesta Rallycross cars, and will come with the same 1.6 litre Ford EcoBoost gasoline engine.

Racy appeal for Ford Fiesta ST concept

Other factors that point to the vehicles rally inspiration come with the engine which has been specially tuned and produces 180hp, with direct injection and turbocharging, while still maintaining good fuel efficiency and low emissions. The suspension has been tuned to ensure dynamic handling and allow sports performance. This was all done while still maintaining Ford’s key values, which include: Quality, Green, Safe and Smart.

The design of the Ford Fiesta ST concept immediately gives the impression of high-performance, with a very aggressive look and style. The large trapezoidal grille is taken from the Ford ST and incorporates the same honeycomb mesh design. The wheels are 17 inch along with a lowered profile. The body kit comes with the same styling as the Fiesta WRC competition car.

Look for more information on the Fiesta ST closer to its release date, as it is still a concept at the moment.