Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo Concept Revealed

The Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo concept car has been revealed at the 2012 Paris Motor Show. The Panamera Sport Turismo concept features the next generation hybrid drive with a sporty body, combining Porsche performance with everyday practicality.

Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo Concept – Features

??Hybrid Capability

The Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo drive technology is the next development step towards the plug-in hybrid and is recognised by the ‘e-hybrid’ badge on the front wings of the car. The Panamera Sport Turismo’s drive system comprises of a lithium-ion battery and a new electric motor that produces 70kW which is backed up with a supercharged 3.0-litre V6 engine that produces 245kW. Together, the system produces a total power output of 306kW and the Panamera Sport Turismo can be driven in pure electric mode up to speeds of 130km/h with a range of over 30km.

Combined-cycle fuel consumption is rated at 3.5-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 82g/km. 0-100km/h is achieved in less than 6.0 seconds. The lithium-ion battery is charged while driving and can be charged externally within 2.5 hours depending on the power source via a charging interface on the vehicle.

??Exterior Features

The Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo is 4.95m long, 1.99m wide and stands 1.4m high. The front indicators and side lights are integrated into the C-shaped headlights which are mounted in the large air inlets. The four-point LED lights together with the ‘C-Blade’ headlights define the front-end of the Panamera Sport Turismo concept.

Instead of conventional side mirrors, the Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo concept has two cameras mounted in the side air outlets which project images onto displays in the cockpit. The rear-end has been completely remodelled and features LED rear lights. The brake light is positioned between the four-point LED lights and an adaptive carbon rear spoiler offers improved downforce.

The milled aluminium battery housing is mounted under the boot floor and is made of electrochromatic glass which reveals the energy source and is illuminated in ‘Acid Green’ with the touch of a button. The Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo concept is finished in the new ‘Liquid Metal Blue’ colour.

??Interior Features

The interior features a large central TFT colour display that is positioned in front of the driver and provides vehicle related information. The two side mirror camera displays are mounted alongside the TFT display. The Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo concept is started by touching the colour display. A touch display on the centre console incorporates additional controls and serves as the control centre for the car. All car functions are controlled by the multi-touch functionality and these include the automatic climate control, seat adjustments, lights, reversing camera and the functions of the Porsche Communication Management (PCM).

New Infiniti EX Compact SUV launched in South Africa

The new Infiniti EX compact SUV has been launched in South Africa. The new Infiniti EX offers a sporty SUV design matched with luxury and powerful engines to provide an elegant and stylish offering in the compact SUV segment.

New Infiniti EX Compact SUV competes with the best

Engine Capability??

Two engine variants are available in the new Infiniti EX range and Intelligent all-wheel drive systems are fitted on all models in the range. The EX30d is fitted with a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 diesel engine and is available across three model grades namely the EX, EX GT and the EX GT Premium. This engine produces 175kW at 3 750rpm with a maximum torque figure of 550Nm available from 1 750rpm. Acceleration to 100km/h is achieved in 7.9 seconds and the EX30d will reach a top speed of 221km/h. The combine fuel consumption figure for the EX30d is 8.5-litres/100km with a corresponding CO2 emissions figure of 224g/km. Fuel consumption is reduced to 7.2-litres/100km on the open road with a cruising range of up to 1 100km.

The petrol powered EX37 GT and GT Premium models are fitted with a 3.7-litre V6 engine that produces 235kW at 7 000rpm with a maximum torque figure of 360Nm available at 5 200rpm. Acceleration to 100km/h for this variant will take 6.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 240km/h. This engine features Variable Valve Event and Lift (VVEL) which contributes to a combined fuel consumption figure of 11.3-litres/km with a corresponding CO2 emissions figure of 288g/km.

Both engine variants are fitted with a 7-speed automatic transmission with a Drive Sport (DS) mode. The DS mode locks out the two top gears and allows for manual shift control for a more spirited driving experience.

Exterior and Interior Styling

The new Infiniti EX exhibits the stance of a compact SUV while incorporating coupe-like styling and proportions into its design. The double-arch grille blends in with the smooth contours of the body and is accented by complexly-shaped xenon headlamps. Chrome detailing is used around the glasshouse, forming a strong character line towards the rear C-pillar. At the rear, the new Infiniti EX features LED tail lights and an integrated spoiler. The EX rides on 18-inch alloy wheels and the rear windows feature privacy glass.

The interior is luxurious and features a ‘sculpted-out cockpit’ that is orientated towards the driver for relaxed and comfortable driving. Leather upholstery fitted all-round and is standard on the GT and GT Premium models. In the diesel range, luggage space is increased with a 45-litre under-floor compartment. For larger loads, the EX’s split-folding rear seats can be remotely lowered or raised at the push of a button.

Safety Features

Standard safety features across the new Infiniti EX range include Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist System (BAS), Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), six airbags, ISOFIX child seat mountings and active head rests.

The EX30d GT Premium adds Lane Departure Prevention (LDP), Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC) with Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA), Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and Infiniti’s Around View Monitor (AVM).

New ??Infiniti EX Compact SUV – Price

Infiniti EX30d Standard R595 000
Infiniti EX30d GT Grade R635 870
Infiniti EX30d GT Premium R677 276
Infiniti EX37 GT Grade R626 000
Infiniti EX37 GT Premium R667 406

All Infiniti vehicles include a 3-year/100 00km warranty, 5-year/100 000km maintenance plan and 24/7 roadside assistance.

New Peugeot 208 Range in South Africa

Peugeot has launched the new Peugeot 208 range in South Africa. The new Peugeot 208 is offered in three attractive models namely the 1.2 VTi Access, the 1.2 VTi Active and the 1.6 VTi Allure. The new 208 is compact, light, spacious and aerodynamic and offers a high level of quality and innovative technology in the highly competitive compact hatchback segment.

New Peugeot 208 – Specifications and Features

??Engine Capability

A new-generation three-cylinder petrol engine makes its debut in the new Peugeot 208 and comes in the form of the 1.2-litre VTi engine that is both compact and lightweight and features Variable Valve Timing (VVT). This unit produces 60kW at 5 750rpm with a maximum torque figure of 118Nm available at 2 750rpm. This engine is capable of a combined fuel consumption figure of 4.5-litres/100km with a corresponding CO2 emissions figure of 104g/km.

The range-topping 208 Allure is powered by a 1.6-litre, four-cylinder engine that produces 88kW at 6 000rpm with a maximum torque figure of 160Nm available from 4 250rpm. This engine achieves a combined fuel consumption figure of 5.8-litres/100km with a corresponding CO2 emissions figure of 134g/km. Both engines are mated with a 5-speed manual transmission that transfers power to the front wheels.

Exterior Styling??

The new Peugeot 208 features a distinctly new front-end design that incorporates a bold ‘floating’ grille that’s accented with either aluminium grey or chrome surrounds and a honeycomb-style radiator further emphasises the unique design character of the new 208. The 208 Allure benefits from an LED light guide and three LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) which are incorporated into the headlights.

At the rear, the boomerang-shaped light clusters incorporate Peugeot’s unique light signature defined by three illuminated ‘claws’ that reinforce the brands feline-inspired design cues. The entry-level 208 Access rides on 15-inch steel rims with plastic wheel trims while the 208 Active rides on turbine-steel, seven-spoke alloy wheels. The range-topping 208 allure benefits from double-spoke 16-inch alloy wheels as standard. The new Peugeot 208 is available with a choice of 10 exterior colours including ‘Oasis Blue’ which is available exclusively for the 208 Allure.

??Interior Styling

The interior styling of the new Peugeot 208 reflects a new design approach that creates a more intimate relationship between the car and driver. The instruments and controls are positioned ergonomically around the driver to enhance driving comfort and pleasure. The instrument panel is raised to meet the driver’s natural range of vision and combines analogue dials with a multi-function digital display. The small diameter steering wheel makes manoeuvring easier while enhancing feel and feedback.

A large 7-inch touch-screen is fitted on the higher-spec models and features carefully designed graphics with intuitive positioning and operation. The screen provides access to various multimedia functions including the FM/AM radio, Bluetooth telephony system and music files via USB or Bluetooth audio streaming. The interior is spacious and the boot offers 311 litres of space, 15 litres more than the previous model.

??Standard Features??

Standard features for the entry level 1.2 VTi Access includes air-conditioning, electric front windows, height-adjustable driver’s seat, height and reach-adjustable steering wheel, multi-function trip computer and refrigerated glove box. The 208 Access also benefits from a high-mounted MP3-compatible CD player with Bluetooth functionality for hands-free cellphone connectivity and audio streaming.

The 1.2 VTi Active gets front fog lights, electric side mirrors, cruise control, a seven-inch touch-screen and a 60/40 rear split bench with a through loading feature. The 1.6 VTi Allure benefits from 16-inch alloys with lower profile tyres. The back and rear windows are also tinted. The 208 Allure features an automatic dual-zone climate control system as well as an electrochromatic rear view mirror and leather trimmed steering wheel.

New Peugeot 208 – Price

Peugeot 208 1.2 VTi Access R154 900
Peugeot 208 1.2 VTi Active R169 900
Peugeot 208 1.6 VTi Allure R189 900

Prices include a 5-year/60 000km Premium Plan and a 3-year/100 000km warranty.

New Ford Focus ST coming to South Africa

Ford’s first global performance vehicle, the new Ford Focus ST will go on sale in South Africa in November 2012. The new Ford Focus ST with its advanced EcoBoost engine offers performance, dynamic handling capability and style as well as a comprehensive range of driver assistance features.

New Ford Focus ST brings EcoBoost to SA

Engine Capability

The new Ford Focus ST is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged EcoBoost engine that produces 184kW at 5 500rpm with a maximum torque figure of 360Nm available between 2000rpm and 4 500rpm. The 2.0-litre EcoBoost engine is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. The Focus ST returns a combined cycle fuel consumption figure of 7.2-litres/100km with a corresponding CO2 emissions figure of 169g/km, which is 20% less than the outgoing model. The Ford ST will accelerate to 100km/h in 6.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 248km/h.

The 2.0-litre EcoBoost engine achieves its performance with the combination of high pressure direct injection, low-inertia turbocharging, Twin-independent Variable Cam Timing (Ti-VCT) as well as redesigned intake and exhaust systems and unique calibration. A sound symposer relays the distinctive engine sound directly from the intake into the cabin.

??Driving Dynamics??

The new Ford Focus ST features a new Sport Steering System with a variable ratio steering rack that reduces steering sensitivity when driving in a straight line and increases sensitivity while cornering. The Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) system is specially calibrated and detects and counters torque steer using Ford’s Torque Steer Compensation (TSC). The Electronic Stability Program offers three modes depending on the preference of the driver. The ST also features Torque Vectoring Control which applies brake torque to the inner wheel while cornering to reduce under steer and the Cornering Under Steer Control (CUSC) applies torque based on the under steer prior to ESP, whether it’s on or off.

The Focus ST features uprated shock absorbers and springs which lower the chassis by 10mm and the rear suspension has been revised with new parts developed specially for the ST. The uprated suspension knuckles and the new anti-roll bar design provide enhanced feedback and control while driving.

Exterior and Interior Styling

Available as a five-door hatchback, the new Ford Focus ST can be had in the signature colour ‘Tangerine Scream’ or ‘Spirit Blue’, ‘Race Red’, ‘Panther Black’, ‘Frozen White’ and ‘Moondust Silver’. The ST features Ford’s signature one-piece trapezoidal grille, bulging side skirts and a new rear bumper with diffuser-style vents in the lower fascia. The roof spoiler is designed to improve stability at high speed and reduce drag.

The interior is distinctly sporty with a specially designed steering wheel, gearshift and pedals while the dark headlining and trim on the pillars adds to its sporty appeal. The lowered Recaro seats offer length adjustment and cushion tilt. Trim options include ST1 and ST3. ST1 offers keyless start, deflation detection system, cruise control and power 1-shot up/down driver front and rear windows. The ST3 trim level adds automatic folding mirrors, keyless entry, DEATC, rain sensitive wipers and Bi-xenon HID headlamps including Daytime Running Lights (DRLs), automatic dimming rear view mirror and automatic wipers. This trim level also includes leather Recaro seats with 8-way adjustability with pull-out cushions and a Recaro rear bench.

The new Ford Focus ST also benefits from Ford SYNC which is a software platform that provides hands-free, voice activated in-car connectivity. External devices are connected using Bluetooth or USB.

New Ford Focus ST – Price

Ford Focus ST 2.0 ST1 R309 530
Ford Focus ST 2.0 ST3 R353 700

Lexus LF-CC Concept Shown in Paris?

The Lexus LF-CC concept is currently on display at the 2012 Paris Motor Show which shows the latest evolution of the company’s L-finesse design language and signature ‘spindle grille’ which will become an integral part of future Lexus D-segment vehicles. The mid-sized coupe LF-CC concept is a compact, rear-wheel drive, full hybrid vehicle that draws inspiration from the LF-LC concept first shown at the Detroit Motor Show earlier in the year.

Lexus LF-CC Concept shows bold styling

Engine Capability

The Lexus LF-CC Concept is equipped with an all-new, highly efficient hybrid powertrain. The Lexus LF-CC makes use of a 4-cylinder, 2.5-litre engine that is mated to a high output, water cooled permanent magnet electric motor. Other components in the hybrid drive system include a generator, high-performance battery and power split device. The engine adopts the Atkinson cycle and D-4S direct injection technology to optimise power and fuel efficiency.

Lexus plans to introduce the new hybrid powertrain into its model range in the near future.

??Exterior Styling

The signature ‘spindle grille’ is the dominant feature on the Lexus LF-CC concept and is encased in a metal-finish surround and takes on a 3-D appearance. A 3 LED-projector headlight design is seen between the lower and upper fender surfaces and independent Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) are integrated into the upper bumper surface.

The convex curve of the bonnet meets a steeply raked windscreen with a roofline that peaks at the rear to emphasise the rear-wheel capability of the Lexus LF-CC. At the back, the full bumper merges with the rear wheel arches which places emphasis on the LF-CC’s broad stance. The L-shaped rear combination lamps feature a layered 3-D design and the lower concave bumper incorporates a full width spoiler. The Lexus LF-CC exterior colour is finished in ‘Fluid Titanium’.

??Interior Styling

The interior represents a further development of Lexus’ Human Machine Interface (HMI) design philosophy. The dashboard is divided into two zones namely the upper Display Zone and the lower Operation Zone. The Display Zone features a multi-display screen while the Operation Zone incorporates the specially designed gear lever and an innovative touch tracer display for remote system control.

The Lexus LF-CC features a wide grip steering wheel, optimal pedal placement and highly visible instrument dials. The seats, door panels and instrument binnacle hood are trimmed in an amber leather finish which complements the exterior colour. The interior quality is further enhanced with the use of metallic finishes and soft touch materials.

New Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback in South Africa

General Motors South Africa (GMSA) has included a stylish hatchback offering to its well established and revised five-model sedan Cruze Range in South Africa for the 2013 model year. The new Chevrolet Cruze hatchback is offered with either a 1.6-litre or 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol engine. Both models are offered in Chevrolet’s comprehensive LS trim level.

New Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback worth a look

Engine Capability

The new Chevrolet Cruze hatch range features all-aluminium engines and both are twin-cam 16-valve units with variable valve timing for both inlet and exhaust systems.

The 1.6-litre engine offers 91kW at 6 000rpm with a maximum torque figure of 155Nm at 4 000rpm. The 1.6-litre Cruze will accelerate to 100km/h in 12.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 190km/h. Fuel consumption for this model is rated at 6.7-litres/100km with a corresponding CO2 emissions figure of 157g/km.

The 1.8-litre Cruze offers 104kW at 6 200rpm with a maximum torque figure of 176Nm available at 3 800rpm. Acceleration to 100km/h is achieved in 11.0 seconds with a top speed of 200km/h. Fuel consumption for the 1.8-litre Cruze hatchback is rated at 6.7-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 157g/km. Both variants are mated to a 5-speed manual transmission.

?Exterior Styling??

The new Chevrolet Cruze hatchback draws inspiration from the Cruze sedan and incorporates style and versatility. Like the sedan, the Cruze hatchback has an arching roofline that extends from a steeply raked windshield to the sloped rear-end. Short front and rear overhangs emphasise the Cruze’s solid appearance.

The front-end features Chevrolet’s signature dual-aperture grille which is accented by distinctive headlight clusters with ‘jewel-effect’ detailing. The flush mounted rear-light clusters are moulded into circular shapes that represent the traditional Chevrolet ‘twin-light’ styling motif.

Interior Styling

The new Chevrolet Cruze hatchback’s cabin is designed to seat five people with excellent leg, head and shoulder room. The Cruze hatch features greater rear headroom when compared to the sedan. The luggage compartment offers 413-litres of space which is extended to 883-litres when folding down the 60/40 split rear bench.

The ‘twin cockpit’ layout is designed to create a sense of unity between the driver and the car. Trim inserts on the dashboard are complemented by matching inserts in the seat trim and door panels. The Cruze hatchback features a neatly integrated centre console which incorporates the infotainment and air-conditioning controls as well as the displays. The analogue dials are backlit with white and ice blue LED’s for clarity.

The seats are constructed from wire mesh and are firm, offering deep bolstering both in the front and rear. The upholstery employs French seam stitching that offers durability and the seat adjustments offer the longest setting in the compact C segment. Manual air-conditioning is standard while dual-zone automatic climate control is available as an option.

A radio/CD with RDS is fitted as standard and the infotainment system is MP3 compatible with an auxiliary input for an iPod or MP3 player. An onboard computer is also included.

Safety Features

Like the sedan, the Cruze hatchback features a stiff body structure that provides safety for occupants in the event of a crash. More than this, the body structure reduces Noise and Vibration Harshness (NVH). Three point seat belts are provided for all five passengers with ISOFIX mountings offered on the outer two rear seats. Airbag protection includes front and seat side airbags and side curtain airbags. A collapsible pedal assembly further protects the driver’s feet in the event of a severe impact.

Active safety features include Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BAS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP) and Traction Control.

New Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback – Price

Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback 1.6 LS MT R212 400
Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback 1.8 LS MT R224 800

The new Chevrolet Cruze hatch is covered by a 5 year/120 000 km warranty with Roadside Assistance for the full warranty period. Anti-corrosion warranty protection is for 5 years/unlimited kilometres. Service intervals are 12 months/15 000 kilometres. A 3 year/60 000 km Service Plan is included in the price.

2013 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible revealed

The 2013 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible  has been revealed ahead of its official unveiling at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show. The third-generation VW Beetle Convertible takes inspiration from it predecessors, retaining its timeless appeal and incorporates a sportier and more dynamic design approach.

2013 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible is a modern classic

Engine options (US) for the Beetle Convertible include the familiar entry-level 2.5-litre, five-cylinder engine that produces 127kW and 240Nm of torque. This engine is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. The fuel efficient 2.0-litre TDI Clean Diesel four-cylinder engine produces 104kW and 320Nm of torque and returns an estimated fuel consumption figure of 5.7-litres/100km. This engine is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission while the 6-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission is available as an option.

The 2.0-litre turbocharged TSI four cylinder engine offers 149kW and 281Nm of torque and is mated to either a 6-speed manual transmission or the DSG automatic transmission.

Exterior and Interior Styling

The 2013 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible features a flatter roofline and upright windshield which is more closely aligned with the first generation of Beetle convertibles. Volkswagen opted for the traditional soft-top instead of a folding hard-top which is more common on the convertibles of today. Although the soft-top is compact when furled, it is wide and long when employed and takes about 10 seconds to open or close with the touch of a button.

The interior retains popular design cues of the latest beetle such as the body-colour dashboard and stylish gauges and trim. The Beetle Convertible features a spacious cabin big enough to seat four passengers and has ample space for luggage. The fold-down, split rear bench increases versatility even further.

Safety features

For safety features the Beetle Convertible features an Automatic Rollover Support System. Two roll-over bars are concealed behind the back of the rear bench seat and are activated by the computer that deploys the airbags in the event of a crash. The driver and passenger benefit from combined head-thorax airbags which are fitted as standard.

The new 2013 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible will be launched in the US towards the end of 2012. There is no indication that the Beetle Convertible will be available in South Africa.

2013 Toyota Verso shown at Paris Motor Show

The new 2013 Toyota Verso is currently on display at the Paris Motor Show and features a host of upgrades including interior and exterior styling changes. The new Verso builds on the versatility, practicality and roominess of the outgoing model but incorporates more style, comfort and handling capability.

2013 Toyota Verso improves on performance and style

??Engine Capability

The 2.0-litre D-4D diesel option has been optimised to provide better torque delivery at low revs with less engine noise. CO2 emissions have also been reduced by 10g/km to under 130g/km. The 2.2-litre D-CAT diesel engine is available with a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. The manual variant produces 131kW with 159g/km while the automatic version produces 110kW with a CO2 emissions figure of 178g/km.

Both the 1.6-litre and 1.8-litre variants are available with a 6-speed manual transmission while the 1.8-litre is available with a revised Multidrive CVT transmission. The diesel powered variants’ towing capacities have been increased from 200kg to 1 500kg.

Exterior Styling

The new 2013 Toyota Verso incorporates ‘dual zone’ styling with a full length character line which divides the bonnet and cabin from the chassis and loadspace. The most prominent changes can be seen on the front-end of the car. Revised details include the large trapezoidal grille set within a revised bumper as well as a smaller upper grille that fills the space between the new narrow headlights which incorporate LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs). The large Toyota badge is set lower on the bonnet and a chrome-finish horizontal bar extends to the headlights to emphasise the car’s width.

The large lower grille is finished in gloss black with two chrome strips flanked by fog lights with chrome surrounds. A full-width lip spoiler further emphasises the car’s width. The Verso also features smaller folding door mirrors with integrated indicators and rides on either 16-inch or 17-inch alloy wheels. The rear-end features a new bumper with a low level diffuser.

??Interior Styling

The Verso’s interior includes new trim details and features a new satin black paint finish. Soft-touch material has been used for the upper glovebox and Nappa leather is used on the steering wheel, door trims and armrests of specific models. Satin chrome trim highlights are used on the instrument surrounds, instrument binnacle hood, air vents, instrument panel, gear shift and door grips.

The 2013 Toyota Verso also benefits from new seat fabrics, colours and design and the front seats have improved side bolster support with a harder-wearing finish. On higher grade version the bolsters are leather-covered with double stitching to match the arm rest and door trims. The Verso features Toyota’s Easy Flat-7 seating system with 32 different seating combinations. Luggage volume is 155-litres with the seats in position and can be increased to 440-litres. Numerous storage compartments are placed throughout the cabin and the new Verso is also available with a full length panoramic roof which increases cabin light and sense of space.

The 2013 Toyota Verso will be built exclusively at Toyota Manufacturing Turkey. It is still unclear whether the new 2013 Toyota Verso will be available in South Africa.

South African Car Sales for September 2012

NAAMSA has released car sales figures for the month of September 2012. New car sales reflected a significant statistical slow down in underlying growth momentum which could be attributed to the high level of industrial action across numerous sectors in the economy which has affected business and consumer confidence in South Africa.

South African Car Sales Summary for September 2012

  • Total September sales – 55 097 units
  • September sales up by 740 units or 1.4%
  • Export Sales up by 703 units or 2.7% to 36 638 units
  • September new car sales up by 1 667 units or 4.4%
  • Rental industry accounted for 18.6% of new car sales

Despite a lower domestic economic growth environment, a number of factors continue to support domestic sales and these include historically low interest rates, vehicle affordability and higher demand for credit by households and businesses. A highly competitive trading environment, attractive incentives and new model introductions will continue to support demand.



Top Five best Selling new passenger Cars in South Africa for September 2012



  1. Volkswagen Polo Vivo – 2587 units
  2. Volkswagen Polo – 2233 units
  3. Toyota Etios – 1736 units
  4. Toyota Corolla – 1383
  5. BMW 3 Series – 1226

Top Five New Vehicles Searched on Cars.co.za

  1. BMW 1 Series 116i 5-door
  2. Volkswagen Polo Vivo 5-door 1.4
  3. Volkswagen Polo 1.2 TDI BlueMotion
  4. Volkswagen Polo Vivo 3-door 1.4
  5. BMW 1 Series 125i 3-door

Top Five Used Vehicles Searched on Cars.co.za

  1. Volkswagen Polo
  2. BMW 3-Series
  3. Volkswagen Golf
  4. Toyota Corolla
  5. Toyota Hilux

Peugeot 2008 Concept shown at Paris Motor Show

The Peugeot 2008 Concept is currently on display at the 2012 Paris Motor Show and is the result of a collaboration of engineers and stylists from Europe, China and Latin America. The Peugeot 2008 Concept is a small vehicle that combines agility, compactness, versatility and style and was designed “for young-minded city dwellers who love the city, while also loving to escape from it”.

Peugeot 2008 Concept – Styling Features

The Peugeot 2008 Concept exterior colour is in fluorescent yellow with a Velvet matt finish. Dark Chrome details on the body emphasise the 2008’s modern and elegant appearance.

The front-end features a ‘floating grille’ with a design cut into the metal and is combined with a dual aspect treatment that highlights the Peugeot emblem. The headlights are unique and aligned with the front-end and are designed to portray the pupil of a cat. The Peugeot 2008 Concept features sophisticated sculpted wings and sides. The large wheel arches and notable ground clearance represent agility, versatility and lightweight design.

Engine Capability

The Peugeot 2008 Concept features a 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder turbo engine with direct injection. This engine forms part of Peugeot’s downsizing strategy and enhances fuel consumption and reduces CO2 emissions. This engine produces a power output of 82kW.

The Peugeot 2008 Concept is set to go into production in 2013.