Toyota 86 TRD at Paris Motor Show

Toyota is showcasing the Toyota Racing Development (TRD) performance line accessories at the 2012 Paris Motor Show, as seen on the Toyota 86 TRD. The TRD accessories have been specifically designed for the Toyota 86 and all parts will be available individually throughout Europe for the first time.

??Toyota 86 TRD showcases enhancements

The Toyota 86 TRD performance line includes aerodynamic enhancing parts such as a front spoiler, side skirts, rear trunk spoiler, rear under spoiler and stainless steel rear diffusers. Customers will have the choice of two TRD 18-inch aluminium wheels with a 10-spoke TF4 design.

The chassis is improved with a Member Brace Set which minimises bodyshell movement. Toyota also introduces the industry first TRD Door Stabiliser which uses a spacer to automatically fill the gap in the door striker area. The TRD Door Stabiliser improves torsional rigidity of the bodyshell, steering response and suspension efficiency.

Braking efficiency is enhanced through the front and rear Monoblock Brake Kit. Direct Brake Lines are available to improve the performance of the standard Toyota 86 braking system. The Toyota 86 TRD also features a High Response Muffler with four exhausts giving the 86 a special TRD racing note. The 86’s interior can also be equipped with a centre console-mounted push button start switch and gear knob covered in real leather.

The TRD Performance line accessories are designed to enhance the performance, aerodynamics and aesthetic appeal of the standard Toyota 86.

2013 Ford Fiesta at Paris Motor Show?

The new and improved 2013 Ford Fiesta is on display at the 2012 Paris Motor Show and features sharper design features and improved technology, including Ford’s ‘Engine of the Year’, the 1.0-litre Ecoboost engine, which is expected to deliver best in class fuel economy.

2013 Ford Fiesta comes with host of improvements

??Improved Styling and Technology

The new 2013 Ford Fiesta features a trapezoidal front grille that’s bracketed by laser-cut headlamps with LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) as well as a ‘power-dome’ bonnet design. The interior has been ergonomically designed to offer maximum enjoyment for the driver.

In terms of technology, the 2013 Ford Fiesta features the Ford SYNC in-car connectivity system that will allow drivers to voice-activate phone calls and music selection from devices connected via Bluetooth or USB. The system also includes Emergency Assist which connects the vehicle to relevant emergency services in the event of an accident.

The European Fiesta will also feature Active City Stop which is designed to prevent low speed collisions. Ford MyKey, a segment-first, encourages safer driving and allows owners to configure maximum speed and audio volume limits. The system also mutes the audio until seat belts are fastened and ensures that driver aids, safety systems and alerts cannot be deactivated when used.

The new 2013 Ford Fiesta will become available in South Africa in 2013.

Peugeot RCZ R Concept at Paris Motor Show

The Peugeot RCZ R Concept made its debut at the 2012 Paris Motor Show and like the Onyx Concept, the RCZ R Concept incorporates copper into its design and is finished in matt black. The Peugeot RCZ R Concept is a preview of a dynamic and sporty version of the RCZ R that will be introduced into the range at the end of 2013.

Peugeot RCZ R Concept is big on power

The Peugeot RCZ R Concept was conceived by Peugeot Sport and PSA Group Development with the aim to adapt technology from motor sport and incorporate it into a production ready vehicle.

The Peugeot RCZ R Concept will be fitted with a new 1.6-litre THP 260 engine that will produce 194kW, making it the most powerful production Peugeot model in history. To complement the engine, the Peugeot RCZ R Concept will also receive special suspension and wheels combined with a Torsen limited slip differential that will enhance driving dynamics.

Audi Crosslane Coupe Concept shown at Paris Motor Show

Audi’s Crosslane Coupe hybrid concept has made its debut at the 2012 Paris Motor Show and provides insight into the design language of future Audi Q models. The Audi Crosslane Coupe concept is designed to appeal to young customers with its removable roof and customisable services under the Audi connect concept.

Audi Crosslane Coupe Concept features special qualities

??Multimaterial Space Frame

The Audi Crosslane Coupe concept, with its Multimaterial Space Frame breaks new ground in terms of weight, cost and energy usage over its lifecycle and forms part of Audi’s lightweight construction principle called Audi Ultra. The Multimaterial Space Frame comprises three materials including aluminium, carbon fibre-reinforced polymer (CFRP) and glass fibre-reinforced polymer (GFRP). The Audi Crosslane Coupé concept weighs 1 390kg.

Aluminium forms the rigid structure around the occupant cell and aluminium beams beneath the front lid join the single-frame grille and fulfil a supporting function. The front and rear crash structures are made of CFRP and surface GFRP components with partial CFRP reinforcements complete the body concept.

Hybrid Powertrain

The plug-in hybrid drive, also known as a dual mode hybrid, comprises a 1.5-litre, three cylinder TFSI engine, two electric motors and a single-stage transmission which together produce a total of 130kW. The TFSI engine produces 96kW and 200Nm of torque. The first electric motor produces 50kW and acts as a starter and alternator. The second electric motor provides electrical traction and develops 85kW and 250Nm of torque.

The Audi Crosslane coupe concept accelerates to 100km/h in 8.6 seconds or 9.8 seconds in pure electric mode. The Crosslane’s top speed is 182km/h. Fuel consumption is estimated at 1.1-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 26g/km. The lithium-ion battery produces 17.4kWh with a range of about 85km in electric mode.

Exterior Styling Features

The Audi Crosslane Coupe concept is 4.21 metres long, 1.88 metres wide and 1.51 metres high with a wheel base of 2.56 metres. The front-end features a single-frame grille divided into segments by struts. The trapezoidal headlights use Audi Matrix LED headlight technology and the bumper incorporates large smooth air intakes.

The boot lid seam divides the rear headlights into two sections and the bumper’s lower section incorporates an aluminium diffuser. The roof, made of two CFRP shells, weighs less than 10kg and can be detached and fitted over the load area.

Interior Styling

The Crosslane Coupé features electrically adjustable sport seats with integrated head restraints made of CFRP. The centre console integrates the gear selector which extends electrically when the car is started and is used to control the hybrid drive. The steering wheel spokes have control surfaces for the thumbs for easy functionality.

A large touchpad on the centre console offers additional functionality. ??The dashboard is clearly focused towards the driver and the air conditioning controls incorporate miniature displays. The Audi Crosslane coupe concept features Audi Connect which provides internet access and incorporates ‘Escape Manager’ which allows passengers to review and comment on routes.

Semi-aniline leather is most widely used in the interior while velvet leather in black provides an appealing contrast. CFRP is extensively used in the interior while the aluminium elements are machine polished and the air nozzles use a black anodised light alloy. The vehicle floor is made from GFRP incorporating thick cords that are woven with rubber threads to form a hard-wearing carpet.

New Porsche 911 Carrera 4 at Paris Motor Show

The new Porsche 911 Carrera 4 has made its international debut at the 2012 Paris Motor Show and offers excellent performance and efficiency with the benefit of the latest version of the active all-wheel drive system PTM (Porsche Traction Management). The new Porsche 911 Carrera 4 is being launched in four versions as the 911 Carrera 4 and the 911 Carrera 4 S with each available as a Coupé and Cabriolet.

New Porsche 911 Carrera 4 – Specifications and Features

Engine Capability

The new Porsche 911 Carrera 4 is fitted with a 3.4-litre engine that produces 257kW. The Coupé version sprints to 100k/h in less than 4.5 seconds while the Cabriolet will take 4.7 seconds with top speeds of 285km/h and 282km/h respectively, depending on equipment features. All models are fitted with a 7-speed manual gearbox as standard and the Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) is available as an option. Fuel consumption with PDK is 8.6-litres/100km for the Coupé and 8.7-litres/100km for the Cabriolet.

The 911 Carrera 4 S is powered by a 3.8-litre rear-mounted boxer that produces 294kW. The Coupé version accelerates to 100km/h in 4.1 seconds and 4.3 seconds for the Cabriolet with a top speed of 299km/h and 296km/h respectively. Fuel consumption with PDK is 9.1-litres/100km for the Coupé and 9.2-litres/100km for the Cabriolet. All models consume up to 16% less fuel than previous models.

Styling Features

The new Porsche 911 Carrera 4 features the same traits as the rear-wheel drive versions and their lightweight body design, suspension, engines and gearboxes are identical, barring modifications to the all-wheel drive. The new Porsche 911 Carrera 4 also weighs up to 65kg less than before. Compared to the two-wheel drive 911 Carrera models, the rear wheel housings have been extended outward by 22mm with the rear tyres being 10mm wider. The rear red light band has also taken on a new form.

Special Features

The new Porsche 911 Carrera 4 features a new instrument cluster that relays PTM all wheel-drive related information to the driver. Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) is available across the range. When combined with PDK, the ACC system adds the safety function Porsche Active Safe (PAS) which assists in the prevention of front-end collisions. A new sliding glass sunroof is available as an option for the 911 Carrera Coupé.

The new Porsche 911 Carerra 4 can be expected in South Africa in 2013.

Peugeot Onyx Concept Revealed in Paris

The Peugeot Onyx Concept is currently on show at the 2012 Paris Motor Show. The hybrid Onyx supercar concept was developed by talented design enthusiasts and combines high performance with the efficient use of innovative materials.

Peugeot Onyx Concept – Special Features

??Hybrid Powertrain

The Peugeot Onyx Concept supercar is powered by a 3.7-litre V8 hybrid HDi FAP engine that transfers 447kW to the 20-inch rear wheels using a 6-speed sequential gearbox. Hybrid4 technology recovers kinetic energy during braking which is then stored in lithium-ion batteries. This energy becomes available on acceleration and provides an additional 60kW.

Efficient Bodywork??

The chassis structure consists of 12 parts weighing about 100kg and the bodywork of the Peugeot Onyx concept features striking contrast of the colours and materials used. The wings and doors are made of pure copper sheet which means its appearence will change over time. The rest of the body is in carbon fibre and painted in matt black.

The front-end incorporates a vertical grille and full LED headlamps. The Onyx shares the ‘double-bubble’ roof and aluminium arches of the Peugeot RCZ. The rear-end lights adopt the three claws Peugeot light signature and support small spoilers which direct upper and side air flows.

Unique Interior

The passenger compartment is made of felt and formed as a one-piece ‘pod’ with no stitching or joins. The result is a passenger ‘cocoon’ within the carbon-fibre structure. The felt is fully recyclable and provides excellent thermal insulation and de-humidifies the air which improves air quality.

The Peugeot Onyx concept features a driver centred interior with controls that are easy to find and the small steering wheel offers the sense of agility and features a felt rim, aluminium controls and paddle shifts. The dashboard is made of compressed used newspapers to form a new kind of wood known as ‘Newspaper Wood’.

Set in the dashboard is the instrument panel in a head up position. The engine speed and vehicle speed are indicated by metal parts. The engine operation is detailed on digital screens. The console, also made from ‘Newspaper Wood’, features a unique fuel indicator shaped from blown-glass. The console also features the dual-zone air conditioning controls with an aluminium bar with a milled detail finish.

The Peugeot Onyx concept introduces new techniques and innovative materials to create a stylish design that is met with performance.

VW Golf BlueMotion concept boasts low fuel consumption

The new Volkswagen Golf BlueMotion concept has made its global debut at the 2012 Paris Motor Show and is considered to be one of the worlds most fuel efficient cars. The third-generation Golf BlueMotion was introduced alongside the seventh-generation Volkswagen Golf at the Paris Motor Show.

VW Golf BlueMotion is a frugal ride

Low Fuel Consumption??

The VW Golf BlueMotion is a five-seater family car that achieves a fuel consumption figure of 3.2-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of only 85g/km. Compared to previous models, the new Golf BlueMotion exhibits a 15% improvement in fuel consumption with a further 14g/km improvement on CO2 emissions.

The VW Golf BlueMotion features a 50-litre fuel tank with an estimated range of 1 561km. Assuming that the average driver travels 15 000km per year and with a fuel consumption of 3.2-litres/km, the new Golf BlueMotion, according to Volkswagen, will only have to be filled about ten times a year.

Lightweight Design

The impressive fuel consumption of the Golf BlueMotion is attributed to its innovative lightweight design, engine-related modifications and other measures. These measures include the use of low rolling resistance tyres with higher air pressure, longer gear ratios and specific aerodynamic modifications.

The frontal area was reduced by 0.03m² and the aerodynamic drag by nearly 10%. Aerodynamic modifications include a reduced ride height of 15mm compared to previous models, a roof spoiler, lateral air guide elements on the rear window, a masked front grille, partially closed air inlet streams, optimised cooling system airflow, special underfloor panels, optimised brake cooling channels and a C-pillar spoiler. The VW Golf BlueMotion is one of the most aerodynamic cars in its class with a Cd value of 0.27.

Efficient Engine

The new VW Golf BlueMotion concept is fitted with a 1.6-litre TDI engine that develops 81kW and 250Nm of torque and is mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox. Stop/Start technology and a battery regeneration system contribute to enhanced efficiency. ??Efficiency is further encouraged with reduced internal friction, a thermal management system, exhaust gas recirculation, cylinder pressure sensor, two-stage oil pump, switchable electric water pump and a water-cooled intercooler. To reduce emissions even further, Volkswagen has also implemented an oxidation catalytic converter, a diesel particulate filter and a NOx storage catalytic converter.

The new Golf BlueMotion will be launched in Europe in the first quarter of 2013.

New Chevrolet Trax makes Paris Motor Show debut

The new Chevrolet Trax has made its global debut at the 2012 Paris Motor Show. The Trax is Chevrolet’s first entry into the fast-growing small SUV segment and bolsters Chevrolet’s SUV offering alongside the 7-seater Captiva. The new Chevrolet Trax is a modern and versatile small SUV that offers car-like handling as well as all-wheel drive and is offered with a choice of three fuel efficient engines.

New Chevrolet Trax is a small SUV with a big heart

The engine line-up includes a 1.4-litre turbo petrol engine that produces 103kW and 200Nm of torque. This variant is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission and comes with All-Wheel Drive (AWD).

The 1.6-litre petrol engine produces 96kW and 300Nm of torque and will be available with a 6-speed manual transmission. The 1.7-litre diesel engine develops 96kW and 300Nm of torque and is also mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. The 1.7-litre diesel and 1.4-litre turbo petrol variants are also offered with a 6-speed automatic transmission and all variants with manual transmission come with Start/Stop functionality.

Interior Features??

The new Chevrolet Trax provides a maximum of 1370 litres loading space and in addition to its 60/40 split rear seat, the front passenger seat can also be folded down for additional space. The Trax also offers a total of eight different seating combinations.

Upper trim levels are equipped with Chevrolet MyLink as standard. The MyLink infotainment system aggregates content from smartphones onto a 7-inch, high resolution, full colour touch-screen display. A dedicated navigation application will become available next year and will project the route from the smartphone onto the systems touch-screen display.

There is no current indication whether the new Chevrolet Trax will be available in South Africa.

New Volkswagen Golf 7 unveiled at Paris Motor Show

The new Volkswagen Golf 7 was officially revealed to the world at the 2012 Paris Motor Show this week. The new seventh-generation Golf offers more features, better safety and more performance than its predecessor and is considerably lighter.

??New Volkswagen Golf 7 improved from the ground up

Lighter Construction

Volkswagen has paid careful attention to weight savings in all aspects of the new Golf 7’s construction and has resulted in a weight reduction of up to 100kg. The weight reduction is largely attributed to the extensive use of high and ultra-high strength steels. The overall share of high-strength steels has gone from 66% in the previous model to 80% in the new Golf 7 and the use of ultra-high strength steel has gone from 6% to 28%.

Lower Fuel Consumption

Reduced weight has resulted in lower fuel consumption and the European-market 1.4-litre turbocharged TSI engine with cylinder de-activation exhibits a European Cycle combined fuel consumption figure of 5.7-litres/100km. The base model TDI Clean Diesel engine produces 78kW with a fuel consumption figure of 4.5-litres/100km.

Larger Dimensions

The new Volkswagen Golf 7 is 5.5cm longer than the outgoing model with an overall length of 4.25m. The wheel base has increased with 5.8cm to 2.63m. The front wheels have moved 4.3cm forward giving the new Golf 7 a sportier stance with an improved crash structure. The Golf 7 is also 2cm lower and 1.27cm wider than the outgoing model.

Improved Interior

The interior offers more space and the passenger compartment is 1.5cm longer with 1.5cm more knee room. Shoulder room has been improved by 3cm in both the front and back seats. A key feature of the new interior is the new infotainment system which incorporates a 5-inch touchscreen. A navigation system with a large 8-inch touchscreen is also available.

The new Volkswagen Golf 7 can be expected in South Africa in the first quarter of 2013.

Toyota iQ EV ready for production

Details of the production-ready Toyota IQ Electric Vehicle (EV) have been revealed. However, Toyota has made it clear that challenges in the form of limited range, long recharging times and limited re-charging infrastructure stand in the way of the iQ EV going into production. Even though Toyota is ready with the iQ EV, it will rather focus its commercial activities on providing a plug-in hybrid solution for the short to medium term to meet customer requirements.

Toyota iQ EV is an urban mover and shaker

Drawing on Toyota’s vast experience in Electric Vehicle (EV) research and development spanning 40 years, the iQ EV utilises Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive platform as its core technology and was designed as a compact, zero emissions urban city car that can seat up to four people.

The Toyota iQ EV’s fully electric powertrain comprises an air-cooled, 47kW electric motor, a 150 cell, a 12.0 kWh, 277.5 V battery pack, a 3 kW water-cooled battery charger, an inverter, an DC/DC converter and a motor speed reduction mechanism. The iQ EV produces a maximum torque figure of 163Nm and acceleration to 100km/h takes 14 seconds while reaching a top speed of 125km/h.

The Toyota iQ EV can be charged in about three hours using a standard 230V household outlet. A dedicated rapid charger compliant port is available as an option which allows the battery to be 80% re-charged in only 15 minutes. The NEDC-certified range for the iQ EV is 85km between charges.

Exterior Styling

The exterior design of the Toyota iQ EV takes inspiration from the FT-EV III concept shown at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show and makes use of two-tone, White-Pearl and Black to create a simple yet bold exterior appearance. The simple front-end sees the removal of the upper grille and is replaced with a charging port lid next to the Toyota badge. The lower bumper adopts trapezoidal, Under Priority character lines and an enlarged lower grille with a gloss black finish. Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) are incorporated into the grille. The headlamps incorporate gloss black and side extension battery cooling air inlets while the halogen headlamp housing are also finished in black.

The rear-end features a black tailgate and a new LED combination lamp design above a trapezoidal license plate mounting area. New aluminium wheels with two-tone wheel caps reinforce the vehicle’s unique all-electric credentials.

Interior Styling

The interior is finished in a bold, high contrast black and white colour scheme. The partial leather upholstery also features contrasting black and white finishes. The Toyota iQ EV features an exclusive driver’s instrument binnacle with Optitron metres styled to resemble electrical componentry such as a generator turbine and printed circuitry. It incorporates a central speedometer with EV System Indicator-linked changing colour illumination, a 3.5” TFT (Thin Film Transistor) multi-information display, a compact, high contrast LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) and a plug-in indicator.

The TFT screen displays comprehensive vehicle information while the default setting shows basic information such as driving range, charge state and output/regeneration status. The screen may also be switched through seven other screens namely average/instant power consumption, post charge power consumption, electrical equipment usage information, driving range, total average vehicle speed/total driving time, EV battery information and settings.

As an alternative to the Toyota iQ EV, customers can opt for the Prius Plug-in Hybrid that offers 25km pure electric driving and is backed up by an efficient hybrid system that delivers a range of over 1 200km without recharging or re-fuelling.