New Renault Clio 4 coming to South Africa

The new Renault Clio 4 has been officially unveiled to the public today at the Paris Motor Show. The new Clio 4 is the embodiment of Renault’s new design identity which is simple, sensuous and warm. The new Renault Clio 4 will be launched in South Africa in the first half of 2013, with the Clio 4 R.S. 200 EDC becoming available later in 2013.

New Renault Clio 4 offers style and improved efficiency

??Engine Capability

Two Renault TURBO Control Efficiency petrol engines will be on offer. The first option is the three cylinder 900cc TURBO Control Efficiency petrol engine with performance equivalent to a normally-aspirated 1.4-litre, four cylinder engine. This engine produces 66kW and 135Nm of torque at 2 500rpm. A Stop&Start system with energy recovery under braking allows for a fuel consumption figure of 4.3-litres/100km and a CO2 emissions figure of only 99g/km.

The New Renault TURBO Control Efficiency 85kW engine, coupled with EDC for the first time, is one of the most powerful and efficient engines it’s class. This engine is coupled with an EDC dual clutch transmission which offers seamless and smooth gear changes. This 1.2-litre engine with direct injection produces 190Nm of torque from 2 000rpm. An ‘eco’ mode can be activated with the push of a button to optimise performance and reduce fuel consumption by up to 10%.

Exterior Styling??

The new Renault Clio 4 is recognised by its prominent Renault logo set against a gloss black background, first seen on the DeZir concept car. This feature is accented with headlight units with chrome accents and LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs). The five-door Clio 4 features a sporty silhouette and the integrated rear door handles are concealed close to the rear quarter lights.

The Clio 4 measures 4.062 metres long, 1.732 metres wide, 1.448 metres tall and sits 45mm closer to the ground than the outgoing model. The large diameter wheels have been pushed 15mm outwards and finish flush with the wheel arches. The Clio 4 also features a steeply raked windscreen for added appeal.

??Interior Styling

The interior features a dashboard in the shape of an aircraft wing with a neat centre console and finely appointed details throughout the cabin.The Clio 4 sets new standards for onboard technology, mostly seen on larger cars. The Clio 4 features Renault R-Link as an option with a large 18cm touchscreen display that provides access to navigation, multimedia, phone, vehicle, services and applications and systems. All Clio 4 models equipped with R-Link benefit from 3D sound by Arkamys. The MEDIA NAV system is built into the console and provides basic functionality and is fitted as standard on all models. Sound is offered with the Renault Bass Reflex system.

??Safety Features

Each model is equipped with an Electronic Stability Program (ESP), ASR traction control, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and emergency brake assist as well as a more direct variable rate electric power steering. Other standard equipment includes cruise control with a speed limiter and ‘motorway-mode’ indicators which produce three flashes of the indicator when preparing to overtake.

The new Reanualt Clio 4 is keyless and the key is replaced with an electronic card that unlocks and locks the doors and the car can be started with the card safely stored. The Clio 4 holds a 5-star EuroNcap rating.

New Jaguar F-TYPE Unveiled at Paris Motor Show

The highly anticipated new Jaguar F-TYPE has been unveiled at the 2012 Paris Motor Show??.. The two-seat convertible sports car focused on performance, agility and driver involvement is offered in three models namely the F-TYPE, F-TYPE S and the F-TYPE V8 S. The front engine, rear-wheel drive F-TYPE is constructed with Jaguar’s fourth generation lightweight aluminium architecture.

New Jaguar F-TYPE delivers impressive performnace

Engine Capability

The new Jaguar F-Type is fitted with a 3.0-litre supercharged V6 that produces 335kW and 450Nm of torque. This model accelerates to 100km/h in 5.3 seconds and reaches a top speed of 260km/h. The F-TYPE S is also fitted with a 3.0-litre supercharged V6 but this version produces 375kW and 460Nm of torque. The F-TYPE S will accelerate to 100km/h in 4.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 275km/h.

The F-TYPE V8 S is powered by a 5.0-litre supercharged V8 that produces 488kW and 624Nm of torque. The F-TYPE V8 S accelerates to 100km/h in 4.9 seconds and reaches a top speed of 300km/h. All models are fitted with an 8-speed ‘Quickshift’ automatic transmission as well as the new Intelligent Stop/Start system which offers improved fuel economy under certain urban driving conditions.

Exterior Styling

The new Jaguar F-TYPE design is sinuous, muscular and elegant. Two ‘heartlines’, in two bold strokes, define both the profile and top-down view of the new Jaguar F-TYPE. The sleek rear-end is made possible with the inclusion of an active rear spoiler that raises and lowers depending on speed. Other aerodynamic aids include a front splitter and sculpted rear valance.

The xenon headlights run vertically rather than horizontally and the J-Blade Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) emphasise the ‘heartline’ running through the lamp. The mesh grille with hexagonal design leans slightly forward to suggest motion when the car is stationary. The rear-end features full LED rear lamps creating a new Jaguar sports car signature.

The new Jaguar F-TYPE also features hidden, automatically deploying door handles that are activated by either unlocking the car with the key fob or touching a touch-sensitive area of the handle. The convertible soft-top folds in 12 seconds at speeds of up to 48km/h.

??Interior Styling

The new Jaguar F-Type features an asymmetric cabin layout with a focus on the driver. A small diameter three-spoke steering wheel is available in a flat-bottomed design as part of an optional Performance Pack. The Tachometer features larger numerals than those on the speedometer for enhanced visibility while shifting. A TFT LCD screen between the dials provides further information for the driver.

Switches are finished in soft-feel matte black with white markings for legibility and are accented with satin chrome and aluminium. The sports seats feature power recline and height adjustment with manual control. Performance seats can be ordered with additional side bolstering for extra support. Two audio options from Meridian are available for the new Jaguar F-TYPE and offer either 10 or 12 speakers with power outputs of 380 watts and 770 watts. The top of the range Meridian Trifield System places both occupants at the centre of the perfectly focused surround sound field.

The new Jaguar F-Type can be expected in South Africa in the second half of 2013 and prices will be made available closer to its South African launch.

New Ford EcoSport for Paris Motor Show

The new Ford EcoSport SUV will be revealed at the Paris Motor Show tomorrow. The new Ford EcoSport combines agility, affordability and fuel efficiency of a B-segment car with the flexibility and spaciousness of an SUV.

New Ford EcoSport fitted with EcoBoost Engine

Based on Ford’s global B-segment platform, the EcoSport SUV will feature Ford’s acclaimed ‘Engine of the Year’, the 1.0-litre, three cylinder EcoBoost petrol engine. The EcoBoost engine produces 90kW and 170Nm of torque with a CO2 emissions figure of 140g/km.

“Ford EcoSport combines the value, quality and fuel efficiency of Fiesta, with the exciting look and feel of a modern SUV,” said Nick Collins, Ford’s global B car vehicle line director. “Its stylish design should prove a tempting addition for European customers to Ford’s B segment range, which already includes the innovative B-MAX compact multi-activity vehicle and the new Fiesta.”

Styling Features

The new Ford EcoSport SUV features a large front grille with slim, detailed headlights and cladding on the side sills and bumpers. The EcoSport is equipped with the Ford SYNC in-car connectivity system which uses voice-activation technology for the answering of phone calls and music selection from devices connected via Bluetooth or USB. The system also incorporates Emergency Assistance that connects the vehicle occupants to local emergency services operators after an accident.

The EcoSport SUV will also offer comprehensive driver assistance technologies including Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP) and Hill Launch Assist (HLA).

The new Ford EcoSport SUV can be expected in South Africa in the second half of 2013.

New BMW 1 Series in South Africa

The new BMW 1 Series is now available in South Africa. The sporty and elegant three-door 1 Series range includes the 116i, 125i and the range topping M Performance M135i. The 118i will be available from November 2012.

New BMW 1 Series boasts impressive performance

All engine variants feature BMW TwinPower Turbo technology comprising a Twin Scroll turbocharger, High Precision Injection, VALVETRONIC and Double VANOS. The BMW 116i is fitted with a four cylinder 1.6-litre petrol engine that develops 100kW at 4 400rpm with a maximum torque figure of 220Nm available from 1 350rpm. Fuel consumption is rated at between 5.5 and 5.7-litres/100km for the manual variant and 5.6 and 5.8-litres/100km for the automatic version. Acceleration to 100km/h is achieved in 8.5 seconds for the manual and 8.7 seconds for the automatic while the 116i’s top speed is 210km/h. ??The BMW 125i is powered by a 2.0-litre, four cylinder petrol engine that produces 160kW at 5 000rpm with a maximum torque figure of 310Nm available between 1 350 and 4 800rpm. Acceleration to 100km/h is achieved in 6.4 seconds for the manual while the automatic will take 6.2 seconds. Top speed for the 125i is 245km for the manual and 243km/h for the automatic. Fuel consumption is rated at 6.6-litres/100km for the manual and 6.4-litres/100km for the automatic.

The range topping M135i is powered by a six cylinder, 3.0-litre petrol engine that produces 235kW at 5 800rpm with a maximum torque figure of 450Nm available between 1 300 and 4 500rpm. Fuel consumption is rated at 8-litres/100km for the manual and 7.5-litres/100km for the automatic. Acceleration to 100km/h is achieved in 5.1 seconds for the manual and 4.9 seconds for the automatic with a top speed of 250km/h. ??All engine variants come with a 6-speed manual transmission as standard. An 8-speed automatic transmission or 8-speed automatic sports transmission is available as an option. BMW Efficient Dynamics technology includes a start/stop function and ?ECO PRO mode which can be activated in conjunction with the Driving Experience Control function which is offered as standard.

BMW 1 Series features refined exterior and interior styling

The BMW 1 Series is both sporty and elegant and features a large BMW kidney grille, contoured headlights and a three-part air intake. The front indicators are integrated into the inner light rings of the headlights while the side indicators are integrated into the side mirrors. The side profile is dominated by wide doors and frameless door windows and rear side windows which add to its dynamic appearance. ?The BMW three-door 1 Series is also offered in the BMW Sport Line and BMW Urban Line versions which include special options and equipment. The M Sport package is also available.

The three-door 1 Series features a spacious, sporty and functional interior and is equipped with the BMW iDrive control system. BMW Professional and a navigation system are available as an option. The BMW iDrive makes use of a freestanding flat-screen monitor. Depending on the model, a control display measuring 6.5-inches or 8.8-inches is integrated into the instrument panel. The 360-litre luggage compartment can be extended to 1200-litres by folding down the 60/40 split rear seat backrest. Move cloth upholstery is standard while Dakota leather is available as an option including sport seats.

Safety features?? packed into new BMW 1 Series

The new BMW 1 Series is equipped with Dynamic Stability Control, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Cornering Brake Control system (CBC) and Dynamic Brake Control system (DBC). Additional safety features include Brake Assistant, Fading Compensation, Dry Braking and Hill Start Assist. Standard airbags include front, side and head airbags. Three-point automatic seatbelts are fitted to all seats with belt force limiters and belt tensioners for the front seats. ISOFIX child seat mountings can be found in the rear.

New BMW 1 Series Price

BMW 1 Series 116i R265 000
BMW 1 Series 125i R336 000
BMW 1 Series M135i R445 500

Maserati GranCabrio MC for Paris Motor Show

The Maserati GranCabrio MC will be on show at the Paris Motor Show this week. The Maserati GranCabrio MC completes Maserati’s open-top range and combines high performance and sportiness with inspiration from the GranTurismo MC Stradale.

Striking looks for Maserati GranCabrio MC

The Maserati GranCabrio MC is 48mm longer than the GranCabrio and the GranCabrio Sport and features a front-end inspired directly from the GranTurismo MC Stradale. The rear-end is defined by a large spoiler for greater negative lift at high speeds. The third brake light is built into the spoiler. Various car customisation packages are available. The standard GranCabrio MC version is available in the same colour as the body and is also available with a carbon finish.

More details of the Maserati GranCabrio MC will be released at the Paris Motor Show at the end of the week.

Jaguar F-Type to debut at Paris Motor Show

The all new Jaguar F-TYPE sports car will be making its public debut at the Paris Motor Show next week.

New Jaguar F-TYPE features impressive tech and performance

The Jaguar F-TYPE, a front engined, rear-wheel drive convertible will be available in three models. The Jaguar F-Type will be powered respectively by 250kW and 280kW versions of Jaguar’s new 3.0-litre V6 supercharged petrol engine and a new derivative of its 5.0-litre V8 supercharged engine, all of which are engineered to deliver pure dynamic driving and excellent performance.

Mike Cross, Chief Engineer, Vehicle Integrity, Jaguar had the following to say, “Fundamentally, a great sports car is one you’ll look forward to driving because it’s fun, and the F-TYPE definitely delivers on that score. We’ve worked hard to make sure that responses to steering, throttle and brakes are absolutely immediate, a task made far easier by the rigid aluminium structure at the car’s base. It’s precise and exciting, a car that you’ll want to drive for the sake of driving alone – and it sounds fantastic!”

More details and images of the new Jaguar F-TYPE will be made available closer to the official launch at the Paris Motor Show.

New Audi A3 Sportback? revealed

Details of the new Audi A3 Sportback has been released. The new compact five-door A3 Sportback offers a spacious luggage compartment and weighs up to 90kg less than the outgoing model due its ultra lightweight construction technology. The new Audi A3 Sportback features a wide range of powerful and efficient engine options and its infotainment and driver assistance systems set new standards in the premium compact segment.

New Audi A3 Sportback on the road to success

?Engine Capability

The new Audi A3 Sportback comes with a choice of one TDI and two TFSI engines. Two diesel engines and one petrol engine will follow at a later stage. The engines feature direct injection, turbocharging, thermal management and a start/stop system. In addition, average fuel consumption has been reduced by 10% compared to the previous model.

The 1.6-litre TDI is the most efficient engine in the line-up consuming only 3.8-litres/100km in manual guise and exhibits a CO2 emissions rating of 99g/km. With this engine, 0-100km/h is achieved in 10.9 seconds with a top speed of 194km/h.

Available in two versions, the newly developed 2.0-litre TDI produces 110kW and 320Nm of torque. Fuel consumption is rated at 4.6-litres/100km with a corresponding CO2 emissions figure of 120g/km. 0-100km/h is achieved in 8.4 seconds with a top speed of 213km/h. The more powerful version of this engine develops 135kW and 380Nm. Fuel consumption is rated at 4.3-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 111g/km. 0-100km/h is completed in 7.4 seconds with a top speed of 232km/h.

The 1.2-litre TFSI which will be available later produces 77kW and 175Nm of torque. The new 1.4-litre TFSI produces 90kW and 200Nm of torque while accelerating to 100km/h in 9.3 seconds and reaching a top speed of 203km/h. Fuel consumption for this engine is rated at 5.3-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 123g/km. A second 103kW/250Nm version of this engine will become available at a later stage.

The most powerful engine in the line-up is the 1.8-litre TFSI petrol engine that produces 132kW and 250Nm of torque. With S tronic and front-wheel drive, this engine achieves 0-100km/h in 7.3 seconds with a top speed of 232km/h. Fuel consumption is rated at 5.6-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 130g/km.

Audi will expand its engine offering for the A3 Sportback with the S model and a TCNG engine that operates on Audi e-gas. The new Audi A3 Sportback e-tron with a plug-in hybrid drive is expected in 2014.
All Audi A3 Sportback models are paired with a 6-speed manual transmission and S tronic is available as an option.

Exterior Styling

The new Audi A3 Sportback is slightly longer, wider and taller than the outgoing model. The new A3 Sportback features a distinctive stone gray single-frame grille with angled upper corners and the lower edges of the flat headlights taper off at an angle. Xenon plus headlights with LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) are available as an option and LED headlights will be available later. The front-end also features large air intakes.

The side profile features a tornado line that gives the A3 Sportback a powerful appearance. The rear-end features split rear lights that emphasise the car’s width and LED light conductors appear to form a continuous arch. An adaptive brake light is fitted as standard. Depending on the engine, the exhaust sytem terminates in one or two tailpipes on the left hand side of the car. The new Audi A3 Sportback is available in 13 colours with three solid finishes, eight metallic finishes and two pearl-effect finishes.

Interior Styling

The new Audi A3 Sportback interior is clean, elegant and luxurious, featuring the MMI operating system with a power retractable monitor which is available with the MMI radio. The steering wheel has either three or four spokes, depending on the model, and has a flat-bottom rim, multifunction buttons and shift paddles. With its increase in size, the new A3 Sportback offers more leg and head room than the outgoing model. Upholstery material options include cloth, synthetic leather, Milano leather, Pearl Nappa leather and Alcantara. ??A highlight of the new Audi A3 Sportback is its spacious luggage compartment that offers 380-litres of space in its basic configuration. With the 60/40 rear seats folded down, capacity increases to 1 220-litres. ??The new Audi A3 Sportback can be expected in South Africa in 2013.

2013 Aston Martin DB9 revealed

Aston Martin has made enhancements its iconic Sports GT car, the DB9. The new 2013 Aston Martin DB9 features new styling, revised engineering and enhanced luxury features. The DB9 combines elements from the outgoing Virage and has streamlined Aston Martin’s GT offering.

2013 Aston Martin DB9 oozes class

??Engine Capability

The 2013 Aston Martin DB9 is fitted with an updated 6.0-litre V12 petrol engine that produces 380kW with a maximum torque figure of 620Nm. The new V12 uses some of the ‘Gen4’ VH architecture hardware technology developed for Aston Martin’s forthcoming Vanquish, but has been tuned to suit the DB9. ??The engine features a revised block, new head including dual variable valve timing, enlarged throttle bodies, uprated fuel pump, revised intake manifold and machined combustion chambers.

Exterior Styling

The exterior design of the DB9 is both elegant and assertive. Using a classic Aston Martin GT silhouette as its base, the DB9 features a more pronounced rear boot ‘flip’ that is designed to enhance aerodynamic performance. The DB9 takes on a low and wide stance which is accented by the ‘light catcher’ feature which runs from the lower front bumper, along the sill to create a chiselled, muscular appearance.

The 2013 Aston Martin DB9 comes with bi-xenon headlamps and a front grille with five horizontal vanes which are chamfered to create an aerofoil. Aston Martin’s integrated side strake and LED siderepeaters are also included.

Interior Styling

The 2013 Aston Martin DB9 features an elegant and luxurious interior. The interior incorporates welt leather first used on the Virage and is designed by Aston Martin’s master craftsmen. Jewel-like glass switchgear is used throughout the interior. ??Aston Martin Chief Executive Officer Dr Ulrich Bez said: “Aside from the undeniably beautiful exterior styling and now even more luxurious interior, there are many important and impressive engineering changes that demonstrate Aston Martin’s renowned ability to create compelling cars in the modern era.”

The 2013 Aston Martin DB9 is available in either Coupe or Volante body styles and will only be available in certain markets.

Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive Concept to be shown

The Mercedes-Benz B-Class will see a new battery-powered electric variant concept introduced at the 2012 Paris Motor Show. The Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive is one of the first vehicles to incorporate the term ‘Electric Drive’ into its model designation and the term will be featured on the boot lids of all battery-powered electric passenger cars from Mercedes-Benz, Mercedes-AMG and Smart.

Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive Concept is a family city slicker

The Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive concept is equipped with a 100kW electric motor that produces 310Nm. The range of the Concept B-Class Electric Drive is 200km and the battery can be charged at any standard domestic 230 V power outlet or alternatively, with rapid charging function, at a 400V high-voltage terminal.

Suitable for everyday and family use, the Concept B-Class Electric Drive is almost ready for series production with a market launch already planned for 2014.

New Volvo V40 Cross Country coming to South Africa

With the arrival of the all-new Volvo V40 expected in November 2012, Volvo Car South Africa has announced that the new Volvo V40 Cross Country will also be available in South Africa in February 2013.

New Volvo V40 Cross Country – Features

Engine Capability

Although the South African engine line-up for the new Volvo V40 Cross Country will be confirmed closer to launch, the following engine options can be expected.

The all-wheel drive V40 T5 is fitted with a five cylinder, 2.5-litre petrol turbo engine that produces 187kW and 400Nm of torque with 40Nm overboost. Fuel consumption for the T5 is rated at 7.8-litres/100km and makes use of a 6-speed automatic gearbox.

The V40 T4 is fitted with a 1.6-litre GTDi engine that develops 132kW and 270Nm of torque with 30Nm overboost. Fuel consumption is rated at 5.5-litres/100km with a corresponding CO2 emissions figure of 129g/km. The V40 T4 is mated with either a 6-speed Powershift automatic transmission or a 6-speed manual gearbox.

Diesel options include the five-cylinder 2.0-litre D4 turbodiesel that develops 130kW and 400Nm of torque. Fuel consumption is rated at 5.2-litres/100km with a corresponding CO2 rating of 137g/km. In addition, the 2.0-litre D3 produces 110kW and 350Nm of torque. Both turbodiesel models are fitted with a 6-speed automatic transmission. All models have a start/stop function and braking regeneration as standard.

Styling Features

The driver rides 40mm higher in the new Volvo V40 Cross Country when compared to the standard V40. The new Volvo V40 Cross Country also has unique features such as wheel rim sizes up to 19 inches, a dark contrasting front bumper, honeycomb mesh grille, upright Daytime Running Lights (DRLs), sculpted contrasting sills and a contrasting rear bumper with an integrated skid plate.

The launch ‘Raw Copper’ exterior finish is echoed in the interior with contrasting stitching with the option of a ‘Copper Dawn’ centre stack inlay. Five leather upholstery options will also be available including the ‘Espresso Brown’ accent colour. The interior also offers seven different mood lighting options that provide ‘theatre lighting’ feel. LED lamps are used to light up strategic areas and both front and rear reading lights can be dimmed.

The new Volvo V40 Cross Country exhibits exceptional storage versatility with its easily foldable, 40/60 rear seat. The load compartment can be equipped with a hanging load net. A soft safety net is available as an option while a steel version is available as an accessory.

The new Volvo V40 Cross Country can also be equipped with an ‘extra’ floor in the load compartment which creates additional storage options. The front passenger seat can also be folded down to create even more space. Numerous storage compartments can be found throughout the cabin and are designed to store smaller items.

The new Volvo V40 Cross Country will be built in Volvo Car Corporation’s production plant in Ghent, Belgium and production gets under way in November 2012. The new Volvo V40 Cross Country South African line-up and pricing will be announced closer to launch.