New Volkswagen UP breaks cover

Since its debut at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show, the Volkswagen UP has undergone a number of changes but we have finally been presented with the full release of the vehicle. VW has created the UP targeting the small-car market with a vehicle that is smaller than the Polo and aimed at being even more affordable. Other areas of focus for the UP include fuel economy, safety and generally fitting as much as possible into a vehicle that is only 3.5 metres long.

Bang for bucks with the new Volkswagen UP

The new Volkswagen UP comes with some impressive customization options allowing buyers to choose clearly defined equipment lines as well as UP boxes. Examples of these boxes include boxes for shopping, long trips and children. Additional customization comes with the on-board infotainment system which allows the owner to personalize their profile using apps.

The new Volkswagen UP will initially be available in 3 models variants tailored to different budgets. The 3 variants include the: Take UP which is the entry level model, the Move UP which is the comfort orientated model and the High UP which is the top of the line version. The High UP will also be available in 2 different models, the UP black and the UP white.

Under the hood, the new Volkswagen UP comes with a 1 litre 3-cylinder petrol engine, with the variants able to produces 44 kW (59 hp) and 55 kW (74 hp). The BlueMotigion technology version comes with Stop/Start which results in a fuel consumption of just 4.2 litres/100km and an emission rating of under 100g/km CO2.

Another impressive feature of the Volkswagen UP is the optional City Emergency Braking, which is the first time this feature has been used in a small car. The system will automatically be active at speeds of under 29km/h and uses a laser sensor to detect imminent collision, it then takes into consideration the vehicles speed and the driving situation and can initiate the automatic brake interventions to potentially avoid a crash.

The interior of the UP is particularly spacious for a small car, which is due to the fact that the wheelbase is so long and the engine is mounted well forward, which allows the driver, front passenger as well as the rear passengers additional space.

The new Volkswagen UP will be launched in December in Europe. Look for more information as it becomes available.

New Lexus GS 350 Revealed

The new Lexus GS 350 has been revealed at the Pebble Beach ConcoursdElegance. Here in South Africa the new GS 350 will be unveiled at the Johannesburg International Motor show this October. The new model is more dynamic, has improved styling, precise handling, improved interior space and new tech. This is the 4th generation of the Lexus GS 350 and comes with the new distinctive front grille that will be integrated into future Lexus cars.

New Lexus GS 350 has been vastly improved

The new Lexus GS 350 comes with a new aerodynamic body, a wider stance along with a stiffer structure. The transmission has quicker shifts, the seat support has been improved and the suspension has been revised. The track has been widened by two inches and the rear-sub frame has been completely redesigned to accommodate the new multi-link rear suspension. All of this has resulted in enhanced rear control and better handling.

Engine Power

Under the hood, the GS 350 comes with a 3.5 litre V6 engine, with 4 valves per cylinder and dual Variable Vale Timing with intelligence. The engine is capable of 228 kW and completes 0-100km/h in just 5.7 seconds. The GS 350 comes with a 6 speed sequential shift automatic transmission along with paddle shifters and sport driving functions as standard. 4 driving modes will be available and can be chosen by toggling the Lexus Drive Mode selector. These modes include: Normal, ECO, Sport S, Sport S+ (Available only in certain models).

Improved Design

As far as the exterior goes, the new Lexus GS 350 comes with a number of designs aimed at improving the vehicles aerodynamic properties. Fins incorporated into the side of the tail lights, as well as the boot area are both designed to help direct air over the vehicle. The rear bumper underbody was also designed with the same aim in mind, as it reduces wind resistance and helps to keep the car on the road.

Look for more information on the new Lexus GS 350 once it hits South Africa in October.

New Toyota FJ Cruiser unleashed

The new Toyota FJ Cruiser is part of the Land Cruiser family and lends many elements from it but also from its predecessor the FJ40. With both brands combined we get the FJ Cruiser which will initially be available in 4 variations.

Tough and rugged design for new Toyota FJ Cruiser

The new Toyota FJ Cruiser takes many of its design elements from the original; the front comes with a similar mesh grille, single round headlights, a straight high mounted bumper and air intake. The windscreen is also mounted upright and it has the same white roof. The rear of the FJ Cruiser comes with wrap around rear lights and windows, a top-hinged rear window and a hydraulically dampened rear door, which contains the spare wheel.

The new Toyota FJ Cruiser will come with a 4 litre V6 petrol engine that produces up to 200 kW at 5 600 rpm and 380 Nm of torque at 4 400 rpm. The engine has 24 valves and dual intelligent variable vale timing which allows it to produce a strong torque spread and improved low range power delivery. The 5-speed automatic transmission comes equipped with Toyotas AI Shift control with Flex Lock-up, this measures the road conditions, power requirements and driver inputs and will automatically adjust the gear selection accordingly. The FJ Cruiser comes with 17-inch alloy wheels which gives the vehicle a ground-clearance of 245mm which is the best in the Land Cruiser range. As mentioned, the new Toyota FJ Cruiser will be available in 4 variations at launch.

New Toyota FJ Cruiser – Price

Toyota FJ Cruiser Base Model – R435 500
Toyota FJ Sport Cruiser Model – R457 300
Toyota FJ Trail Cruiser Model – R451 700
Toyota FJ Desert Cruiser Model – R450 400

All versions come with a 5 year / 90 000km service and 3 year / 100 000km warranty.

10 most popular cars on Cars.co.za

Every day thousands of South Africans search for used cars on Cars.co.za. These searches represent current trends in the South African used car market… the cars which buyers are looking for. We have compiled a list of the 10 most popular cars on Cars.co.za at the moment.

10 most popular cars to make your day

#10 Audi A3

At number 10 is the Audi A3, the ever popular hatchback from Audi has been a firm favourite for South African buyers since its release in 1996. Each model variant improves on the former and the car is showing no sign of losing its popularity.

#9 BMW 1-Series

Another incredibly popular hatch; the BMW 1-Series, comes in at number 9. The 1-Series has done incredibly well for BMW, allowing the brand to cater to a more varied and younger customer. From the 116 hatchback to the ridiculously good looking 135i convertible, the 1-Series will be on South African roads for a long time to come.

#8 Opel Corsa

First introduced in 1982, The Opel Corsa has been a staple in the supermini segment for a long time, undergoing numerous model upgrades and changes along the way. The Corsa comes with a very different price tag compared to the A3 and 1-Series but thrives in the cheaper segment.

#7 Mercedes-Benz C-Class

German automakers continue their complete dominance of our list as number 7, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, brings their tally to four. The C-Class, however, is one of the few entries on the list that is not a hatchback, which makes the placing all the more impressive. The C-Class has been around since 1993 and has undergone a massive array of changes, updates and body-types, including incarnations as the Kompressor and a Coupe. The most recognizable C-Class remains the big family sedan that South Africans have enjoyed for many years.

#6 Toyota Yaris

We took a short break from the hatchback domination for number 7 but we are right back onboard with our number 6 entry; the Toyota Yaris. The Yaris is one of the newer models on our list, dating back only as far as 1999, but has enjoyed massive popularity in South Africa. The Yaris also comes as a sedan but the vehicles popularity comes from the hatch version. Each updated version of the Yaris creates a more aggressive look than the previous, creating a fierce rival for the car it cannot seem to avoid being compared to; the VW Polo.

#5 Toyota Hilux

Back to back Toyota entries see the Toyota Hilux coming in at number 5. The Hilux has always been one of the most popular bakkies in South Africa and it doesnt seem to be slowing down at all. From farmers, to off-road enthusiasts, to a number of other stereotypes, South Africans love the rugged hardiness that the Hilux offers. The Hilux carries such a reputation for being indestructable that the crew at TopGear decided to put it to a test and do whatever they could to destroy the bakkie. It survived all their challenges and showed why it is so popular and why it deserves the number 5 spot on our list.

#4 Toyota Corolla

Three in a row for Toyota as the ever popular Corolla drives in at number 4. The Corolla was first introduced in 1966 and has seen huge acclaim the world over, to the point that in 1997 the Corolla was the best selling nameplate in the world and by 2007 had sold over 35 million units, surpassing the VW Beetle. The Corolla has been around for so long but has maintained such a high standard of vehicle that its popularity remains high, including in South Africa where it is our 4th most popular car.

#3 Volkswagen Golf

Flying in at number #3 is the Volkswagen Golf, which is also our oldest car on the list; dating back to 1974. The VW Golf has undergone 6 generations, with each doing extremely well in Car of the Year awards around the world and general popularity here in SA. The VW Golf is something of a myth in South Africa, where it never seems to go out of style and the demand for second-hand Golfs has always been huge. The Volkswagen Golf will no doubt be around for generations to come, as its popularity shows no signs of waning any time soon.

#2 BMW 3-Series

Our runner-up spot and top sedan is occupied by the BMW 3-Series, a vehicle that has been around sine 1975, has undergone 5 generations and 5 body styles. In 2005 the 3-Series accounted for 40% of BMWs sales, and is their best selling vehicle. Much like the C-Class, the BMW 3-Series is a classic family sedan and can be seen on our roads pretty much anywhere in the country. The 6th generation 3-Series is on the way and is expected to arrive for the 2012 model year. The crazy popularity of this car will no doubt continue for many years to come.

#1 Volkswagen Polo

And the most popular car on Cars.co.za is … the Volkswagen Polo. The VW Polo has been around since 1975 and has been produced in 5 major generations, with additional facelift revisions along the way. The popularity of the Polo in South Africa seems to increase with every new variant, with used and new car sales of the Polo more often than not taking the number 1 spot. The Polo is so popular because it is the complete package, from stylish looks, to an impressive ride and just the right price to cater to a big chunk of the South African car buying market. It is interesting to note that the Polo Vivo is not included in the Polos popularity on Cars.co.za and the Vivo itself came in at #12 on our list, a truly incredible achievement by Volkswagen.

SEAT Leon FR Hot Hatch Revealed

This September sees the release of the new SEAT Leon FR hot hatch from Spanish automaker SEAT. The new SEAT Leon FR lineup aims to be more accessible and appeal to a wider market by providing a number of new models and engine sizes.

SEAT Leon FR – Features

The more toned down models, aimed at a smaller budget, start with a 1.4 TSI 125 PS manual as well as a 2.0 TDI CR 140 PS manual and DSG model. The Leon comes with FR front and rear bumpers, a twin chrome exhausts pipe, silver-painted door mirrors, LED light clusters, FR sports seats, FR sport steering wheel and a number of other impressive features.

The most exciting model in the new SEAT Leon FR series is the FR+, which comes with improved performance and additional equipment. Under the hood the engine options include a 2.0 TSI 211 PS and a 2.0 TDI CR 170 PS. To differentiate it from the standard FR, the FR+ comes with 18 inch lbera alloy wheels, the SEAT Media System 2.2, a 5 inch colour touch screen, Bi-xenon headlights with adaptive Front-lighting system as well as front parking sensors and a few other additional comforts.

The new SEAT Leon FR range is currently only available in Europe but look for information on a local release should it become available.

New Suzuki Swift Sport heads for Frankfurt Motor Show

The new Suzuki Swift Sport is set to make its world debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show this September. The new Suzuki Swift Sport launched in 2006 and is now seeing its first full model change with this latest update. It comes with a number of changes to the styling as well as performance and fuel economy.

New Suzuki Swift Sport – Features

The exterior comes with far more aggressive styling, with a low-slung form which adds to the sense of stability and tension. The size of the front grille has been increased which further adds to the aggressive look and sporty feel. The interior has also been refined to be in line with the sportier looking exterior but no specific details have been announced.

The new Suzuki Swift Sport is powered by a 1.6 litre M16A engine which produces a maximum output of 100 kW at 6 900rpm and a max torque output of 160 Nm at 4 400rpm. The new Suzuki Swift Sport comes with a specifically designed 6-speed manual transmission. The overall drive has also been improved, allowing the car improved cornering stability, quicker performance and more responsive handling due to struts with internal rebound springs and a redesigned rear-suspension.

Lastly, the new Suzuki Swift Sport comes with a number of safety features, including 7 air bags, ESP (Electronic Stability Program) and a stiff yet light impact-absorbing body. Look for more information on the new Suzuki Swift Sport as it becomes available.

BMW X3 range expands with four variants in South Africa

The already popular BMW X3 will no doubt become even more popular with an extended range of model variants available. From October 2011, the X3 will be available in a total of 6 different models, while in South Africa, customers will have the option of only four variants, two petrol and two diesel options. The new engine models will feature BMW TwinPower Turbo technology as well as optimised fuel consumption and performance.

BMW X3 range grows with new powerful engines

The new entry level petrol model comes in the form of the BMW X3 Drive20i. It comes with a new 2.0 litre 4-cylinder engine along with High Precision direct petrol injection, Double-Vanos variable camshaft control and VALVETRONIC variable valve control. The engine in the X3 Drive20i is capable of producing 135 kW at 4800rpm and 270 Nm of torque at 1250 rpm and comes with an 8-speed automatic transmission.

At the top of the performance pile for the new X3 range is the xDrive30d and xDrive35d. Noted as the worlds sportiest 6-cylinder diesel engine, the new 3.0 litre engine in the xDrive35d produces 230 kW at 4400 rpm, which makes it the most powerful vehicle in the SAV (Sports Activity Vehicle) range. Torque output peaks at 630 Nm from 1500 to 2500 rpm. The xDrive30d is not far behind with a peak output of 190 kW at 4000rpm and a peak torque of 560 Nm from 2000 to 2750rpm.

Look out for the new range of BMW X3 model variants in South Africa as of October 2013.

Lexus CT 200h hatchback in South Africa

The Lexus CT 200h ventures into a new market segment and will look to cause a stir in the premium hatchback segment. This new market expansion has been a trend at Lexus of late, with the IS 250C entering the convertible segment and the LX570 entering the luxury off-road segment. The Lexus CT 200h is aimed at a younger customer while maintaining Lexus position at the top of the hybrid ladder in South Africa.

Lexus CT 200h offers low fuel consumption

Being a full hybrid vehicle, the Lexus CT 200h can run on petrol or electric or both combined. The petrol engine is a 1.8 litre VVT-I Atkinson and delivers 73 kW at 5200 rpm with 142 Nm of torque. Added to this is the electric engine which delivers 60 kW, combining to produce 100 kW of total system output.

Efficiency is where this vehicle stands out though; with ultra low emissions and some very impressive fuel economy figures. The fuel emissions statistics are class-leading, with an output of just 94 g/km of CO2. The fuel economy is also top-notch, clocking in at just 4.1 litres/100km combined cycle. This efficiency is in part due to the artificial intelligence systems in place on the vehicle. The Constantly Variable Transmission optimizes the petrol engine revs depending on the driving conditions while simultaneously synchronizing petrol and electric power to best suit the situation.

The Lexus CT 200h comes with a number of different driving moods; Relaxing or Dynamic. These moods are supported by 4 different driving modes which include: Normal, EV, ECO and Sport. As you can expect, each of these modes will drastically change the driving experience of the vehicle. ECO mode will soften the throttle response while Sport mode does the exact opposite as well as increasing the steering and driving control system responses.

Lexus CT 200h – Price

Lexus CT 200h S – R343,300
Lexus CT 200h F-Sport – R398,500
Lexus CT 200h F-Sport 10SP HDD – R434,200

2011 Jeep Compass Redesigned

The new 2011 Jeep Compass comes with a new exterior design, improved handling in all conditions, better efficiency and value. The steering and suspension systems have both been upgraded with many other features coming directly from Jeeps Grand Cherokee, leading to an impressive compact SUV.

New face for 2011 Jeep Compass

The 2011 Jeep Compass comes with a new bonnet, new front fenders, new fascia as well as new headlamps and grille. The front face of the vehicle now looks more serious and imposing. Front lighting has also been improved thanks to quad reflector headlamps and improved fog lamps. The rear comes with a new fascia, the spoiler is now body-colour and the tail lamps are LED. The roof rails have also been redesigned and are now slimmer. Lastly the Compass now rides on 18-inch aluminium wheels.

As mentioned, the suspension has been retuned with higher spring and damping rates, rebound springs have been added and the diameter of the rear sway bar has been increased. The fuel economy on the new 2011 Jeep Compass has also been improved and is decent for its segment, clocking in at a combined cycle of 7.6 litres/100km.

Powering the 2011 Jeep Compass is a 2.0 litre World Engine that produces 115 kW of power and 190 Nm of torque. Rounding off the list of features, the new Compass is capable of towing up to 1200kg.

2011 Jeep Compass – Price

2011 Jeep Compass – R269 990 including a 3 year/100 000km full maintenance plan.

New Mazda CX-5 ushers in Skyactiv Technology

Mazda has begun developing a new range of vehicles that will adopt their full range of breakthrough SKYACTIV Technologies and the new design theme; KODO Soul of Motion. The first of these vehicles is the completely new Mazda CX-5, a compact crossover SUV with new chassis, body, engine and transmission, which will make its debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor show on the 13th of September.

Fresh start for new Mazda CX-5

Powering the new Mazda CX-5, for the European market, will be a SKYACTIV-G 2.0 litre petrol engine as well as a SKYACTIVE-D 2.2 litre diesel engine, with an option of Standard power or High power. The focus for this vehicle was attaining exceptional environmental performance for a compact SUV, with the diesel option aiming at 120g/km CO2 emissions.

As mentioned before, the new Mazda CX-5 will be the first vehicle to showcase the KODO Soul of Motion design theme. Included in this theme is a prominent new frontal treatment and bolder Mazda family face. The styling will be more dynamic which will emphasize vitality and agility.

Joining the stand at the debut of the new Mazda CX-5 in Frankfurt will be the upgraded Mazda3, which will feature reduced CO2 emissions, improved driving dynamics and an upgraded exterior and interior. Look for more information on the new Mazda CX-5 as it becomes available.