New Audi RS 5 Coupe details released

The new Audi RS 5 Coupe adds yet another high performance offering from Audi, although the RS 5 has a slight focus on fuel efficiency, which is not always the case with high performance cars.

Big power for new Audi RS 5 Coupe

The RS 5’s V8 engine displaces 4,163 cc with the 4.2 FSI delivering 331kw (450hp). With all performance cars, the most important spec is the 0-100km and the Audi RS 5 Coupe’ clocks in at just 4.6 seconds. The top speed comes in at 250km/h but Audi say they can increase the speed to 280km/h on request.

As far as economy goes, the new Audi RS 5 Coupe consumes just 10.8 litres/100km which is less than its competitors in the same class. This is helped by the 7 speed S-tronic which allows the driver to change gears using the paddles on the steering wheel, or by using the selector lever or finally by enabling the dual clutch transmission shift which will change gears automatically.

The new Audi RS 5 Coupe comes standard with 19 inch wheels, which, like all RS models are powered by Quatro permanent all wheel drive. Also with many performance models, the ESP stabilization can be completely deactivated or set to sport mode.

Audi TT RS (2010) Driving Impression

With its slinky good looks, exquisitely made interior and overpowering snob appeal, it is fair to say that the Audi TT has acquired something of a “poser’s car” image. They’re bought primarily for their impact on onlookers and for making a statement of success and style. Audi is aware of this too, and has decided that what the TT really needs is an injection of testosterone. A dynamic – and somewhat “scary” – flagship model would endow the entire Audi TT line-up with a bit more macho appeal, before it’s too late. So, now we have the Audi TT RS… is it good enough to stop this Audi model from becoming an exclusively female fashion accessory?

Race-ready appearance for Audi TT RS

If Audi’s aim was to make the TT less appealing to its potential female clientele, then it has succeeded by simply adding a large fixed wing onto the tailgate. But it went even further. The ride height is 10 mm lower than other Audi TT models (except the S), which doesn’t sound like much, but then there are also striking 18-inch alloy wheels and some seriously hungry looking air intakes at the front to beef up the look even more. A number of options are offered, including even larger wheels, and they do much to transform the TT’s shape from sexy coupe to aggressive beast.

At the rear two large oval exhaust outlets broadcast an exciting genre of music – more of that later. There haven’t been such far-reaching changes inside. The design of the current Audi TT facia is still hugely appealing, with its three round central ventilation outlets, large digital display and sporty instrument cluster. The build quality is stunning, and the driving position spot-on. Of course, there is the occasional RS badge to spot, and Audi has added a boost gauge and even lap timer into the trip computer display. The seats are not unique to the RS (they’re shared with the S) but they’re very good nonetheless, trimmed in smart alcantara and boast electric adjustment. A square-bottomed, thick-rimmed steering wheel that is very nice to grip is also included as standard.

In fact, Audi has for a change been pretty generous when speccing this model. Included are; climate control, xenon lamps, auto lights/wipers, radio/CD player, remote audio controls, cruise control, rear park assist and satellite navigation. You also get six airbags, ventilated disc brakes all-round, ABS with EBD and a three-stage ESP system. So, this is no stripped-out, lightweight racer.

Rekindles Original Quattro Sound

Powering this special Audi TT is a rather unique engine. Audi wanted to recall the emotional appeal of the original Quattro with this model, and its success (or not) was always going to depend a lot on somehow replicating the unforgettable sound of that iconic machine. Like the first Quattro, the Audi TT RS uses a turbocharged five-cylinder engine. But it’s a modern engine, so there’s direct injection etc. And yet Audi has managed to deliver an exhaust note that is raspy and massively addictive. Coupled with a short-throw six-speed manual transmission that must rate as one of the best self-shifters out of the VW Group stable for many years, the driver is the conductor of a spine-tingling musical performance – there’s no automatic box to take control away.

The engine pumps out a very strong 250 kW and the 450 Nm of torque arrives at 1 600 rpm and stays until a heady 5 300. You don’t have to be a rocket scientist to understand that this translates into exceptional throttle sensitivity and flexibility. Using the latest version of Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive system, boasting a Haldex differential, the Audi TT RS usually runs with 80 % of power going to the front wheels. But, if needed, a full 100 % can theoretically be sent to the rear. Still, even with the traction control switched out, breaking traction with this car is not easy. Standing start sprint runs are therefore tricky – you have to feed in a lot of power to avoid bogging down. Get it right, though, and you can blast to 100 km/h in 4,6 seconds – fast enough to scare many a “serious” sportscar. Oh, and while the top speed is limited to 250 km/h, there is an optional pack that removes the limiter and raises the bar to 280 km/h! Still think the Audi TT is for girls?

Grip and Grunt

When driven fast, the Audi TT RS is one of those cars that seem to have no easily identifiable grip limit. Quattro all-wheel drive, a wide track, low centre of gravity, fat rubber and even the near 50/50 weight distribution all combine to endow the Audi TT RS with leech-like grip. There’s very little roll evident upon corner entry, with the magnetic ride system keeping the body flat. The steering, too, is nicely weighted, and quite direct. All of this gives the driver huge confidence. What it does lack is adjustability – it’s not a car that you can slide around very easily – and for some hardcore petrolheads that will not be acceptable.

The Audi TT RS appeal lies in its devastating A-to-B ability, across almost all road surfaces, courtesy of its massive grip and traction advantages. And all the time you have that engaging six-speed box and lovely exhaust sound to keep you company – the latter can be made even louder by pressing a Sport button.

Audi TT RS – Verdict

The Audi TT RS comes at a steep price, but it goes a long way to justifying it. The core appeal of the Audi TT remains untouched – this is a beautifully made, high-quality coupe with sexy looks and high comfort levels. What the RS adds is a hugely charismatic engine, engaging transmission, phenomenal performance and super-glue grip. It will give many much more expensive sports cars with illustrious badges a serious fright in a dash from A to B. A TT with chest hair? You betcha…

We like:

• Good looks
• Standard specification
• Grip • Performance
• Sound

We don’t like:

• Price

Fast Facts:

Engine: 2,5-litre, five-cylinder, turbopetrol
Power: 250 kW @ 5 400 rpm
Torque: 450 Nm @ 1 600 rpm
Transmission: Six-speed manual
Wheels: 18-inch alloy
Top speed: 250 km/h 0-100 km/h: 4,6 seconds
Fuel economy: 9,2 litres/100 km

Source: www.um.co.za

Also consider:

• Porsche Cayman 3,4 S: A deadly rival to the Audi TT RS… the Cayman offers arguably one of the most finely balanced chassis on the road today, and delivers the kind of driving enjoyment you usually have to pay much more for. Unbeatable.

• BMW Z4 sDrive35i M Sport: Similarly priced to the Audi TT RS, but whereas the Audi is a fairly hardcore all-wheel drive coupe, the BMW is a rear-wheel drive folding hard-top. Still, the BMW is not much slower, and may be a more comfortable daily driver, if that’s what you’re really after.

• Lotus Exige 1,8: An odd-ball choice for sure, but if you really want a thrilling compact sportscar that makes every drive memorable, then look no further. The driver involvement is epic!

New Ferrari 599 GTO revealed at Beijing Motor Show

Ferrari have released information on the new Ferrari 599 GTO. The new Ferrari 599 GTO aims to be Ferrari’s fastest ever road car and as a special limited edition, will only be available to 599 clients.

Impressive performance for new Ferrari 599 GTO

Regarding its speed, the new Ferrari 599 GTO holds the current record of just 1 minute 24 seconds on the Fiorano track. Added to this are some impressive stats that include a 0-100km/h in just 3.35 seconds. The engine puts out 670hp with a power to weight ratio of just 2.23kg/hp.

Fitted with the latest second-generation carbon-ceramic brakes which are aimed at improved performance and aerodynamic properties, and they are lighter too. Another impressive feature is the Virtual Race Engineer (VRE) which gives the driver instant feedback regarding the performance of the car on the cars console.

There have obviously needed to be some changes made to the new Ferrari 599 GTO, including the engine, to ensure that it is road-worthy, as many aspects of the car were taken from the racing version. The engine is a V12 5999cc and produces 670 cv at 8250 rpm.

The brakes have also been designed for performance thanks to the CCM2 braking system and result in quicker lap times and cooler running temperatures. This results in an impressive braking distance of 100-0km/h in just 32.5 meters.

New Honda CR-Z Hybrid details released

The new Honda CR-Z is the world’s first sporty hybrid and is designed with urban living in mind, while still placing an emphasis on being green. The new Honda CR-Z still produces a lot of power and with its hybrid motor maintains low exhaust emissions.

New Honda CR-Z perfect for urban motoring

The new Honda CR-Z comes with a 1.5 liter 4 cylinder petrol-electric engine, capable of 0-62mph in just 9.9 seconds and a co2 emission rate of 117g/km. The CR-Z is the first hybrid car where the focus has been placed on the driver, and the car has been tailored to be agile and quick, perfect for urban driving with a top speed of 124mph.

The new Honda CR-Z has a low center of gravity, thanks to its low suspension of just 135mm ground clearance. The suspension, reduced weight and lower track all add up to benefit handling and control. The Honda CR-Z comes with IMA (Intergrated Motor Assist) which allows the electric engine to boost the petrol engine during acceleration for increased power.

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New to the CR-Z are two components that aid in keeping fuel consumption down and lowering Co2 emissions. These features are; An eco drive bar and an ambient meter. The eco drive bar moves to either side of the center line, when the bar is on the center, the drive is smooth and more efficient. The bar will shift slightly to the right when accelerating and to the left when breaking, the drive is encouraged to keep this bar in the center. The ambient meter with glow different colours depending on how the car is driven, the different colours represent different levels of economical driving. If it glows green, then the car is performing at an optimal economical setting.

With plush sports seats, a range of metallic colours to choose from and a range of safety features (including 6 airbags), the new Honda CR-Z hybrid is a coupe to be proud of.

2011 Audi TT gets updated

Audi has released details about their 2011 Audi TT Roadster and Audi TT Coupe models. The most exciting bit of info being the inclusion of a 4 cylinder version. The 2.0 TFSI will develop 155kW of power (211 hp) and most importantly features a dual-exhaust!.

New looks and performance for 2011 Audi TT

The updated 2011 Audi TT models are slightly longer in length with the other dimensions remaining unchanged. There are 12 LED Daytime running lights underlining the headlights and fog lights set in chrome rings. There are some new colour options available to the 2011 Audi TT with increasingly suspect names:

• Scuba blue
• Oolong gray
• Volcano red
• Dakota gray

Interior Features

The interior of the 2011 Audi TT range offers a large amount of space with sport styling and sport leather seats. Many of the interior applications have received an aluminum look and improved styling. The seats have been treated especially to reduce thermal heating when the car is parked in the sun.

Performance

The 2-liter engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in just 6.1 seconds with a top speed of 245km/h. The 6 speed manual gearbox continually transfers power to the wheels. Another option is the S tronic dual clutch transmission which changes between the six gears with almost no interruption to the supply of power.

New Opel Meriva launched

The new Opel Meriva which is aimed at ergonomic design and styling goes on sale in June. Designed in Germany, the next generation Meriva is intended to be dynamic, flexible and affordable.

More space in new Opel Meriva

First on the list of new design elements is FlexDoors, which is a rear-hinged door system that is aimed at enabling passengers easy access into the cabin, as the back seats are often used in the Meriva. The doors open independently from the from doors and extend up to 84 degrees, with the focus being on easily accessing a baby seat without the need to twist and turn.

Inside the cabin the focus is once again on space and comfort. With flexible armrests and fully adjustable seats. The legroom has been increased, and the seats can be moved and adjusted to further increase legroom and cabin space.

Engines

The new Opel Meriva range includes petrol and diesel versions, the petrol range includes:

• 1.4 liter (100hp)
• 1.4 Turbo (120hp)
• 1.4 Turbo (140hp) – 6 Speed manual gearbox, increased power and reduced emissions compared to the previous generation Meriva.

The 2 diesel models available include:

• 1.3 CDTI (75hp) requires only 4.9 liters / 100km
• 1.7 CDTI (100hp) – 6 Speed automatic transmission

The new Opel Meriva will be produced in Spain

Mazda introduces free Apple Iphone roadside assistance application

A number of Iphone applications already exist that are designed by major car manufacturers to aid with the running of their cars. One particular application will remember where you parked your car and direct you back to it. Mazda has jumped on the bandwagon and released their own application that aims to help their drivers with roadside assistance.

Safer motoring with new Mazda App

The Mazda application puts the driver in touch with a roadside assistance agent who can assist the driver as well as dispatch the relevant assistance to exactly where the driver has broken down, thanks to the GPS coordinates taken from the application. The application can aid in:

Flat tyre
Out of petrol
Locked out of car
In need of a tow

Please note though that this application will only work for US citizens. The application can be downloaded from http://mazda.crosscountry-auto.com/

Source: Mazda

Massive sales increases in March for major car brands.

With the world-wide recession now clearly a thing of the past, three of the top car manufacturers have once again shown strong sales figures and growth for the month of March. These figures are somewhat deceptive as they are generally compared to March of 2009, which was obviously an atrocious year for the automotive market as global car sales dropped dramatically. However these figures are still impressive in their own right as they clearly show the full recovery the automotive market is marking and a positive future for these major brands.

Volkswagen

Volkswagen of America reported that their March sales included 22,148 car units which resulted in a 40.9% increase compared to the same month in 2009. The Volkswagen Jetta, Golf and Touareg proved to be very popular during this time with their economic pricing and clean diesel engines.

Ford

The Ford brand in America, which includes Lincoln and Mercury vehicles, also posted very strong sales figures for March 2010. The sales figures were up 37% for the quarter compared to the 2009 year. Ken Czubay, Ford vice president US Marketing Sales and Service, reported that it was due to Fords lineup of new vehicles that carried sales figures and that cars, utilities and trucks were all on the up.

Among the top achievers for Ford cars include: The Ford Fusion, the Ford Taurus and the Ford Focus. As for the utility market, the Ford Escape is up 52% in sales.

Audi

Following in the trend and not to be out-done, Audi posted their US sales stats that included a 33.5% increase from the same month in 2009. This increase also gave Audi a personal milestone of its best first-quarter sales since they began selling cars in the US. At the top of the list is the

Audi A5 which set an Audi single month sales record with an increase of 59.8% compared to March 2009. The Audi A3 also saw impressive increases with a jump of 100% sales compared to 2009 which was increased by the new A3 being named 2010 Green car of the year. Also among the top contenders were the: Audi Q5 and Audi Q7 which also saw big gains in sales.

What about used cars?

The used car market, like the new car market, has seen an increase in sales compared to 2009. The market is once again thriving with renewed confidence from used car buyers and generally more money available. As always find a range of used cars on Cars.co.za.

Max Biaggi Wins Portimao GP for Aprilia

Max Biaggi achieved his first dual victory in the Superbike World Championships after a tense and exciting Race 2 that saw the Roman champ duel it out with his proud and speedy rival, Leon Haslam on his Suzuki. So it was a repeat of the first race won today by Max, in which he also beat out Haslam for the victory.

Max Biaggi for the win

Jumping into the lead from the start, Max Biaggi was pursued by Haslam, but unlike in the first race, they were unable to break away from the rest of the crowd: Cal Crutchlow (Yamaha), Carlos Checa (Ducati) and up until the point when his engine failed, Jonathan Rea (Honda) remained close behind the two leaders, making the race even more uncertain.

A mistake just four laps before the end of the race seemed to have compromised Biaggi’s run. Biaggi, in the span of a curve, found himself relegated to third place, having been passed by both Haslam and Crutchlow. The Roman’s will to win was exceptional, and he immediately regained ground over the Brit on his Yamaha and took off after Haslam, who he managed two pass just two laps before the end of the race. Resisting the Suzuki bishop’s attempt to regain the lead, Biaggi crossed the finish line in first place.

Max Biaggi up to 2nd place overall

Not since 1998 has an Italian driver (Pierfrancesco Chili at Kyalami) won a dual victory on an Italian motorcycle. With this double win, Max Biaggi moves up to second place in the world classification with 69 points, behind his rival Haslam (85 points).

Aprilia Alitalia Racing Team’s triumphant day was completed by two fifth place finishes from the English driver, Leon Camier, who seemed to be improving continuously, and is by now quite comfortable on his Aprilia RSV4 and able to race for extended periods with the leaders.

“It’s a pleasure to be back on top after the problems we had in Australia,” said Biaggi. “We’ve improved with respect to last year. The pace was a bit slower in Race 2 and we were all quite close. It was really a great battle with a lot of passes and a few mistakes. I’m really very happy for this dual victory because it is truly a great outcome, both for me and my team, as well as Aprilia, which is really doing a great job.”

“I am very happy,” said Camier. “We did well in both races and set excellent paces. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to find my rhythm during the initial laps and this penalized me quite a bit. Now I also need to make improvements in this area. The familiarity with my RSV4 is improving with this new suspension and we’ve got a lot of work to do to keep moving forward.”

Mercedes-Benz C-Class range gets new model

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class range is to expand with the addition of the C-Class Coupe.  The C-Class Coupe is said to go into production in 2011 from the companies Bremen plant. The C-Class Coupe will be the fourth model in the C-Class lineup, which has already proven itself to be extremely popular among car buyers, especially in South Africa.

Mercedes-Benz C-Class remains popular choice

As the current 10th most popular searched used car on Cars.co.za, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class has remained a firm favorite among South African buyers. Its no doubt that the C-Class Coupe will continue this momentum and build on Mercedes-Benz’s popularity.