South African Vehicle Sales for August 2012

The steady growth trend of South African vehicle sales continued in the month of August 2012 with an improvement of 9.4% or 4 844 units when compared to the same period in 2011. A total of 56 253 vehicles were sold in August 2012 compared to the 51 409 units sold in August last year.

In addition, domestic sales for the first eight months in 2012 remained 11.3% ahead of the corresponding eight months in 2011. Export sales in the month of August 2012 totalled 25 024 units and registered a marginal improvement of 0.8% or 188 units compared to the same period last year.

Of the total detailed reported industry sales of 53 725 vehicles (excluding MBSA), 81.1% of sales were attributed to dealer sales, 11.5% represented sales to the rental industry, 3.9% for industry corporate fleets and 3.5% for government.

New car sales during August 2012 experienced an 11.5% improvement when compared to August 2011. Year to date new car sales remained 12.5% ahead when compared to the first eight months of 2011. The new car market for August 2012 was supported by strong demand from car rental companies who accounted for 15.2% of total new car sales, which according to NAAMSA, will continue for the next few months as the car rental industry continues to re-fleet.

“Despite prospects of a lower economic growth environment, the automotive sector continued to perform remarkably well. Factors that would continue to support domestic sales included historically low interest rates, ongoing improvement in vehicle affordability in real terms and improving demand for credit by households and businesses” said NAAMSA.

A highly competitive trading environment, attractive incentives and new model introductions would continue to support demand. In terms of domestic sales, the industry remained on track to achieve growth of 10% for 2012. However, NAAMSA predicts a difficult trading environment and subdued growth in 2013 due to inflationary pressure, rising food and fuel costs and the weakness of the Rand on new vehicle pricing.

Top 3 Selling Cars in South Africa for August 2012

Model Units sold
Volkswagen Polo Vivo 3 714
Toyota Hilux 2 942
Volkswagen Polo 2 355

Peugeot RCZ gets Facelift

The popular Peugeot RCZ has undergone an extensive facelift and will make its debut at the Paris Motor Show at the end of the month. The Peugeot RCZ Sports Coupé has received a range of design updates as well as offering an extended range of colours and material combinations that allows for extensive customisation.

Peugeot RCZ – Specifications and Features

Engine Capability

The current engine options are carried over to the updated Peugeot RCZ and include the 1.6-litre THP 200 which produces 147kW and 275Nm of torque and is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. Fuel consumption for this unit is rated at 5.6-litres/100km with a corresponding CO2 emissions figure of 155g/km.

The 2.0-litre HDi 163 FAP produces 120kW and 340Nm of torque and is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. Fuel consumption is rated at 4.4-litres/100km with a corresponding CO2 emissions figure of 139g/km.

The 1.6-litre THP 156 produces 115kW and 240Nm of torque and is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. Fuel consumption for this engine is rated at 5.3-litres/100km with a corresponding CO2 emissions figure of 149g/km. This engine is also available with an automatic transmission and fuel consumption for this variant is rated at 6.0-litres/100km with a corresponding CO2 emissions figure of 168g/km.

A 194kW, 1.6-litre THP 260 version is planned for next year and will be previewed as the ‘RCZ R Concept’ at the Paris Motor Show at the end of this month and will be the most powerful production model in Peugeot’s history.

Styling Features

The most striking change to the Peugeot RCZ can be seen on the front-end which features a revised grille. The central air intake features two satin chrome bars which signify ‘strength and refinement’. The lower air intake has been extended on each side to accommodate six LEDs that are ‘sculpted in the form of claws’ behind a smoked lens that blends into a gloss black surround. The new styling also complements the rear-end and the ‘double-bubble’ roof.

Two headlamp options are available including halogen headlamps with aluminium background or xenon headlamps with a titanium background. The interior benefits from a lacquered black gear lever surround and the GT models get leather inserts for the door trim pads and two aluminium inserts for the dashboard. The Peugeot RCZ also features a large boot capacity of 384 litres with additional storage compartments under the boot floor which add an extra 30 litres. With the rear seats folded down, storage capacity increases to 760 litres.

The new Peugeot RCZ offers a wide range of customisation options including black grille bars, three roof arch colours, a ‘Black Pack’, three new decals, two carbon roof options, ten alloy wheel designs (18”/19”) and a Sports Pack.
Standard Features

The new Peugeot RCZ is fitted with an acoustic windscreen and Visibility Pack as standard which includes automatic wipers, automatic headlamps, electrochromatic interior mirror, guide-me-home lighting and approach lighting on unlocking.

Audio and Navigation is provided by the Peugeot Connect Navigation which was first introduced in the Peugeot 508 and incorporates navigation on a large 7” screen, Radio/CD player which is MP3 compatible, Bluetooth connectivity and a Jack and USB socket in the central armrest.

The new Peugeot RCZ can be expected in South Africa in 2013.

Volvo V40 R-Design coming to South Africa

Volvo will be launching the all-new V40 in South Africa with sales starting on 15 November 2012. Test drives will be available from 15 October 2012. The exciting  Volvo V40 R-Design, geared towards the performance-minded individual, will be available in South Africa in February 2013.

Volvo V40 R-Design – Features

Engine Capability

Two Volvo V40 R-Design engine derivatives will be made available in South Africa including the V40 D3 Geartronic which produces 110kW and 350Nm of torque and the high performance T5 petrol turbo that offers 187kW and 350Nm of torque.

The Volvo V40 R-Design also features a lower and firmer Sport chassis. The springs and shock absorbers are also firmer, offering greater response and a sense of control while driving. McPherson struts with 25mm piston rods are fitted at the front while monotube dampers are fitted at the rear.

Exterior and Interior Styling

The front-end of the Volvo V40 R-Design features a silk-metal framed high gloss grille while an ironstone diffuser, silk-metal finished details and twin exhaust tailpipes further enhance the R-Design’s sporty appeal. The R-Design is further enhanced with five-spoke 18-inch diamond-cut wheels. A total of six exterior colours are available including the launch colour, ‘Rebel Blue’.

The Volvo V40 R-Design features a blue interactive dashboard and offers the option of three layouts with different configurations including Elegance, Eco, and Performance, all of which are the same blue colour. Customers will also have the choice of Nubuk textile seats or full leather seats with an embroidered R-Design logo and a blue ‘R’. The interior also includes a specially designed steering wheel, gear shifter, handbrake and sport pedals. The interior is finished off with ‘perforated’ aluminium inlays, black leather with matching stitching and a black headliner.

Volvo V40 R-Design – Price

Volvo V40 R-Design D3 Geartronic R363 300
Volvo V40 R Design T5 Geartronic R397 100

Joburg

Joburg’s Finest Toyota 2012 is an event dedicated to Toyota owners and fans of the brand and this year’s event will be held at Rand Stadium Toyota, Johannesburg South, Orphen Rd, Eastcliffe and will run from 9am-2pm. Joburg’s Finest Toyota 2012 is hosted by Rand Stadium Toyota in association with the Toyota Twincam Club.

Joburg’s Finest Toyota 2012 – Categories

Toyota owners interested in entering the Joburg’s Finest Toyota 2012 Competition may enter into the following categories,

  • Pre 70’s Toyota
  • Pre 80’s Toyota
  • Highest Mileage Toyota
  • Lowest Mileage Toyota
  • Most Exotic Toyota
  • Most Pimped Toyota
  • Best 4×4 Toyota.

Last year’s event proved successful with over 200 entrants participating and highlights included overall winner, Donovan Horn with his 1975 Toyota Corolla SR5, a Toyota TRD Liftback, a Toyota Twin Turbo Supra, an imported Toyota Celica and a Toyota MR2.

Event highlights

  • The first 50 entrants will receive a 3 month CAR magazine subscription and a personalised cover magazine with their vehicle
  • The Lexus LFA (one of 4 in the country) is confirmed as a showcase vehicle for the event
  • The 1000HP Supra has been confirmed as a showcase vehicle for the event
  • The gymkhana event will end with the Lexus IS-F burnout- V8 monstrosity!
  • Toyota South Africa endorsed 4×4 Urban Trax is confirmed as a special treat for 4×4 enthusiasts – See Prado FJ and Hilux do the unbelievable!
  • Rob Green Motorsport is confirmed with his modified beasts!

Joburg’s Finest Toyota 2012 – Event Details

Joburg’s Finest Toyota 2012 promises to be an enjoyable event where Toyota owners and fans can experience the nostalgia and history of the Toyota brand. This year’s event will host the Toyota 4×4 Urban Trax which showcases the incredible capabilities of Toyota 4×4’s and the Gymkhana Event is a ‘sound-off’ and ‘rev-it’ event hosted by the Toyota Twincam Club.

Lexus will be showcasing the unique Lexus LFA supercar and Rand Stadium Toyota will be featuring the much acclaimed Toyota 86. Joburg’s Finest Toyota 2012 will offer entertainment in the form of a top South African band as well as a Pop Idol finalist, live DJ, bull riding machine, kiddies entertainment and accessory and supplier demonstrations.

Date: 15 September 2012
Time: 9am-2pm
Place: Rand Stadium Toyota, Johannesburg South, Orphen Rd, Eastcliffe

For more information check out www.randstadiumtoyota.co.za

Porsche Cayenne S Diesel Launched

The Porsche Cayenne S Diesel has been launched and is the most powerful diesel model on the market. The Porsche Cayenne S Diesel will be launched in Germany in January 2013 and can be expected to reach South Africa in the same year.

Porsche Cayenne S Diesel – Features

Engine Capability

The Porsche Cayenne S Diesel is fitted with a 4.2-litre V8 diesel engine with bi-turbo charging that produces 281kW and a maximum torque figure of 850Nm. 0-100km/h is completed in 5.7 seconds while reaching a top speed of 252km/h. Fuel consumption is rated at 8.3-litres/100km with a corresponding CO2 emissions figure of 218g/km. With a 100-litre fuel tank, the Porsche Cayenne S Diesel can travel up to 1 200km before re-fuelling. Efficiency can be largely attributed to the automatic start/stop function and the Cayenne S Diesel is the only SUV to offer this function.

The Porsche Cayenne S Diesel also features PTM active all-wheel drive which produces the qualities of a rear-wheel drive vehicle with its benefits of handling and precision, while front-wheel drive actions are adapted to the driving situation to offer stability and traction. The optional Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV Plus) further enhances driving dynamics. The Cayenne S Diesel has a maximum towing capacity of 3.5 metric tonnes.

Further details of the Porsche Cayenne S Diesel will be released when the information becomes available.

Nissan TeRRA SUV Concept Revealed

Details have been revealed of the Nissan TeRRA SUV concept that will be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show at the end of the month. Combining Nissan’s strengths in SUV’s and EV’s, the TeRRA SUV concept showcases an innovative 4×4 fuel-cell powertrain and an athletic exterior that takes sustainable motoring into a new dimension.

Zero emissions for Nissan TeRRA SUV Concept

The Nissan TeRRA SUV concept is envisioned as the “one and only zero emission SUV” and was designed as a functional and flexible choice for the youthful consumer who seek eco-friendliness and a secure driving feel under any road conditions.

The interior combines the use of blond wood trim, coloured acrylic and metal to provide a sense of warmth and security. The unique instrument cluster functions much like a portable tablet. The driver docks the tablet when entering the vehicle and can view key performance indicators and browse numerous views including entertainment, communications and navigation. Upon leaving the vehicle, the driver can remove the tablet and use it independently.

The driver sits almost centre in a unique diagonal layout that positions rear passengers over the shoulders of those in front, rather than directly behind. “For the driver to be nearly centered, not seated off to one side, provides a fresh, enlightened perspective with exceptional visibility. The diagonal layout allows all passengers to share the vision of adventures up ahead” says Shiro Nakamura, Nissan senior vice president and chief creative officer. With the passenger seats folded down, the cabin deck is completely flat and creates storage space for almost any object.

Although only a concept, the TeRRA’s proposed 4×4 fuel cell powertrain is impressive. The front wheels are powered by the same electric propulsion system used in the Nissan LEAF. Each back wheel features an in-wheel electric motor based on working prototypes featured in three successive PIVO concepts. Nissan’s hydrogen fuel cell stack is found under the hood and exhibits world-leading power density of 2.5kW/L. The Nissan TeRRA is purely a concept car but is indicative that Nissan is ready to mass produce fuel cell electric vehicles whenever hydrogen becomes widely available.

MINI JCW GP on route to South Africa

The MINI JCW GP will be on show at the Paris Motor Show at the end of this month. The MINI JCW GP with race track-developed technology is the sportiest and fastest production model ever built by MINI. Only 2 000 units will be built and a limited number will be available in South Africa in the first quarter of 2013.

MINI JCW GP – Specifications and Features

Engine Capability

The two-seater MINI JCW GP derives its racy performance ability from its turbocharged 1.6-litre, four cylinder petrol engine that produces 160kW at 6 000rpm with a maximum torque figure of 260Nm from 1 750 rpm. Power is transferred using a 6-speed manual transmission. An overboost function increases peak torque to 280Nm for short periods of time while accelerating.

Acceleration to 100km/h is achieved in 6.3 seconds with a top speed of 242km/h. Fuel consumption is rated at 7.1-litres/100km with a corresponding CO2 emissions figure of 165g/km. The MINI JCW GP features individually adjustable coilover suspension which allows ride height to be lowered by 20mm, offering superb handling capability both on and off the track.

Exterior Styling

The MINI JCW GP is fitted with light 17-inch alloy wheels with sports tyres while standard tyres are available as an option. The body is painted in exclusive Thunder Grey metallic with red edging around the bonnet, exterior mirror caps and side air intakes in the front apron. The MINI JCW GP features xenon headlights in black shells and foglamps. The front and rear aprons, side sills and roof spoiler add to its striking appeal and also control air flow. The rear diffuser, underside panelling and roof edge spoiler reduce lift and improve handling.

Interior Styling

The interior offers a distinct racy feel with the omission of the rear bench. The two-seater offers Recaro sports seats with special GP stitching for the driver and ‘co-driver’. A cargo guard prevents items from sliding forward from the luggage compartment. The MINI JCW GP also features a thick-rimmed leather steering wheel and gearshift lever with a chrome ring and red shift diagram. The interior is finished in piano black while the roof liner, rev counter and speedometer are finished in anthracite.

MINI JCW Countryman coming to South Africa

Details of the MINI JCW Countryman has been revealed and features the ALL4 all-wheel drive system and a newly developed turbocharged four-cylinder engine, making it the most powerful model in the MINI JCW range.

MINI JCW Countryman takes power to the road

Engine Capability

The MINI JCW Countryman is fitted with a four-cylinder 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine that is capable of 160kW at 6 000rpm with a maximum torque figure of 280Nm at between 1 900 and 5 000rpm (300Nm with overboost). A 6-speed manual gearbox is fitted as standard while a 6-speed automatic with Steptronic function and steering wheel shift paddles are available as an option. 0-100km/h is achieved in 7 seconds and its top speed is rated at 225km/h for the manual and 223km/h for the automatic.

The manual version displays a fuel consumption figure of 7.4-litres/100km and 7.9-litres/100km for the automatic. CO2 emissions are rated at 172g/km and 184g/km respectively.

Exterior and Interior Styling

The MINI JCW Countryman draws its design inspiration from the time-honoured MINI template with styling cues such as the characteristic radiator grille contours, large headlights set into the bonnet, voluminous wheel arches and vertical rear light clusters. Seven exterior paint finishes are available with red, white and black on offer for the contrasting roof. Sport Stripes are also available in the same colours. The MINI JCW Countryman rides on 18-inch light-alloy wheels.

The interior features a special John Cooper Works cockpit design with sports seats and a sports steering wheel. The seats are adorned in Diagonal Track John Cooper Works Carbon Black cloth trim with red contrast stitching. Exclusive Lounge Leather trim in Carbon Black Championship Red is also available. The trim strips, door panels and centre console come in Piano Black as standard. The rear compartment can be ordered as a three-seater bench or two individual seats and boot capacity is rated at between 350-1 170-litres.

Optional Extras

Optional extras for the MINI JCW Countryman include Xenon Adaptive Headlights, Comfort Access, Automatic Climate Control, Park Distance Control, Multi-function buttons for the steering wheel, electric tilting/sliding sunroof, rain sensors and automatic dimming rear-view and exterior mirrors. Apart from the standard MINI Boost CD, customers can also opt for the Harman Kardon hi-fi loudspeaker system, radio MINI Visual Boost and the MINI navigation system. A voice control system, DAB tuner and a hands-free system is also available.

The MINI JCW Countryman will go on sale in South Africa in the first quarter of 2013. However, customers may start ordering from November 2012.

New 2013 Ford Fiesta Revealed

Ford has unveiled the new 2013 Ford Fiesta that features a sharper exterior design and a host of exclusive technology features. The first Ford Fiesta was launched in 1976 and has since sold over 15-million models worldwide.

New 2013 Ford Fiesta gets EcoBoost technology

The new 2013 Ford Fiesta is equipped with the 2012 International Engine of the Year, the acclaimed 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine and is expected to deliver the best-in-class fuel economy. In terms of design, the new 2013 Ford Fiesta features a prominent trapezoidal front grille that’s complemented with ‘laser-cut’ headlamps and a power-dome bonnet design.

On the inside, the new Ford Fiesta benefits from a voice-activated, in-car connectivity system called Ford SYNC, which allows owners to voice-activate phone calls and music selection from devices connected via Bluetooth or USB.

“Fiesta has been one of the world’s best-loved small cars across five decades, and the sporty appeal of the last generation Fiesta inspired real passion among global compact car customers, contributing to its status as the world’s most successful small car,” said Martin Smith, Ford of Europe executive design director. “We had to keep that vital part of Fiesta’s make-up – but we also wanted to give it a more sophisticated look.”

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

Mercedes-Benz CLS 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY details

Details of the Mercedes-Benz CLS 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY have emerged, and for the first time makes use of a CDI four cylinder engine in the luxury Coupé segment. The CLS 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY boasts significantly reduced fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

Mercedes-Benz CLS 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY boasts low consumption

Engine Capability

The four-door CLS 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY is fitted with a 2.1-litre, four cylinder, direct injection diesel engine that produces 150kW with a maximum torque figure of 500Nm. Fuel consumption is impressive at between 5.1 and 5.3-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 134g/km.

The CLS 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY is fitted with the enhanced 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission as standard and comes with ECO start/stop which further enhances efficiency.

Exterior Styling

The Mercedes-Benz CLS 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY features a radiator grille that is not integrated into the bonnet, but rather formed separately, which highlights the long sporty bonnet. The CLS outline with its long, elegant proportions is the dominating attribute of the new model. A total of 11 paint colours can be combined with four interior colours including black, alpaca grey, almond beige and black/aubergine.

Interior Styling

The CLS 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY interior is distinctly elegant with an intriguing wrap-around cockpit. The central display has been well incorporated into the upper part of the instrument panel. Four leather trim designs are available and customers have the choice of two exclusive wood trim options which include high-gloss brown burr walnut and high-gloss black ash at no additional charge.

Entertainment comes in the form of the COMAND APS multimedia system which includes a DVD Player for video and audio as well as a navigation system with a 40GB hard drive. Information is displayed on a 17.7cm colour display in the centre of the instrument panel. The COMAND APS system is combined with the voice-operated LINGUATRONIC and text-to-speech function as standard and allows SMS’s, address book entries, radio station names and relevant traffic reports to be read out to the driver.

Optional Extras

The CLS 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY can be personalised with the following features which include active multi-contour seats, heated front seats, LED High Performance headlamps, Keyless Go and a Harman/Kardon sound system. Optional support systems in the Driving Assist package include DISTRONIC PLUS, new Active Blind Spot Assist and Active Lane Keeping Assist with brake actuation.

The AMG Sports package is also available and includes a multi-function sports steering wheel in Nappa leather with 3-spoke design and flattened bottom section, aluminium pedals, AMG bumpers on the front (with single-louvred grille) and rear, 18” or 19” AMG alloy wheels, AMG floor mats and visible tailpipes. The interior benefits from black leather seats, light-coloured felled seams on the seats, headrests and armrests. With the AMG Sports package, the automatic transmission has a third shift programme, M, which allows the gear to be selected manually using the paddles on the steering wheel. In addition to this, the adaptive suspension is more sportily tuned.

Mercedes-Benz CLS 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY – Price

Mercedes-Benz CLS 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY R700 000
AMG Sports Package R28 700

The CLS 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY comes standard with the MobiloDrive 120 maintenance package of 6-years/120 000 km with and a 2-year / unlimited vehicle warranty.