2011 Ford Fiesta is most economical car in its class

In an era that is dominated by being green and saving money, the 2011 Ford Fiesta has stepped up to the plate and has been named the most fuel efficient car in it’s class. The 2011 Ford Fiesta has been given a rating of 40mpg, which translates into 40 miles per gallon, or around 17km per liter. This rating is given by the ‘Environment Protection Agency’ or EPA.

Green motoring for 2011 Ford Fiesta

This rating of 40mpg puts the 2011 Ford Fiesta ahead of it’s competitors regarding highway driving. At 40mpg it is 5mpg less than the Honda Fit and 4mpg less than the Toyota Yaris. The Fiesta is able to achieve this impressive fuel economy thanks to a number of fuel saving features. The engine is a 1.6 liter Duratec with Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing, a deceleration fuel shutoff and a system that reduces the power needed to run the aircon and alternator.

To further add to this mpg rating, the 2011 Ford Fiesta is aerodynamically designed to reduce drag and has electric-power assisted steering. The transmission is a 6 speed automatic.

Audi A5 Sportback 3,0 TDI (2010) Driving Impression

Even though Audi’s rapid rise up the premium ranks in recent years has earned the brand a great many plaudits, recently the German company has also started receiving some criticism. The reason? Well, Audi’s design language has become so clearly defined and, in the eyes of some observers, so strict, that only models such as the R8 and, to a lesser extent these days, the TT, exhibit any degree of aesthetic flair. Perhaps for that very reason, Audi is about to embark on a launch cycle that will see it release some very interesting new vehicles, of which the Audi A5 Sportback featured here is only one. Question is… does its sense of style and individualism not leave a car such as the A4 – and even the A6 – under threat?

Elegant Sportiness for Audi A5 Sportback

Sharing much of its architecture with the A5 Coupe, the Audi A5 Sportback resembles this car nearly 100 % from the front. But from the A-pillar rearwards it is pretty much all new, and very different to most other Audis. The solidity that is part and parcel of most German cars’ designs has been replaced by an elegance that is almost Italian. The roofline is sweeping, the rear window particularly flat, and the haunches muscular. It is a car that is at once sporty and elegant. Size-wise, its swooping lines make it appear smaller than it actually is – the wheelbase is a substantial 2 810 mm long and the boot measures 480 L under that rear tailgate – so there’s been no compromise in terms of practicality (fitment of a space saver spare excluded).

Swing open the driver’s door and it’s not the Audi A5 Sportback facia that you will notice first, but rather the frameless door windows – true to coupe style. Once ensconced in the leather-trimmed and electrically adjustable driver’s seat, you may be surprised to find that, despite the narrow glass area and low roof, the cabin still feels spacious. The driver’s chair is height-adjustable, of course, and in typical VW group fashion the steering wheel boasts a very wide range of rake/reach adjustment. Rear legroom is also quite reasonable, but the rear seat is tailored for two only. Those occupying the rear are well catered for, though, because they get their own ventilation outlets and a very substantial fold-down centre armrest.

Back in front, and the facia is pretty much standard A5 coupe fare, though that’s hardly a bad thing. The quality is exquisite and the ergonomics near flawless. This 3,0 TDI model is also generously equipped with standard features, including; climate control, auto lights/wipers, radio/CD with multifunction steering-wheel, cruise control, six airbags and an electronic stability system (ESP). Extra-cost items include park assist and satellite navigation.

Excellent diesel engine

Audi’s 3,0-litre turbodiesel engine remains one of the gems in the brand’s arsenal. It develops a whopping 180 kW, and the full 500 Nm of torque is available from a low 1 500 to 3 000 rpm. The latter point perfectly sums up the character of this engine. It is not only very powerful, but the power remains on tap across a wide rev range, resulting in very strong punch at almost any speed and an immediacy to throttle inputs that makes the Audi A5 Sportback hugely entertaining to drive. Quattro all-wheel drive and the superb seven-speed dual-clutch s-tronic transmission combine to also endow it with blistering accelerative capability – it scorches to 100 km/h in 6,1 seconds! And yet, what we have here is an engine that can, if used with some restraint, consume as little as 6,6 L/100 km.

All of this from a sporty luxury sedan that weighs more than 1,7 tonnes… Under that elegant body sits the very effective underpinnings of the A5 Coupe. With its wide tack widths, low centre of gravity, wide tyres and, last but not least, quattro all-wheel drive, the Audi A5 Sportback boasts prodigious levels of grip. It can corner at incredibly high speeds, and is very stable upon corner entry. The steering is similarly “solid”, with a very consistent feel, but not much feedback. Overall, this is a car that impresses more with its capability than it entertains… And while the ride is certainly on the firm side, the Audi A5 Sportback’s feathers aren’t easily ruffled. It is an extremely comfortable and economical cruiser. But when the mood grabs the driver, however, and he/she mashes the throttle into the carpet and switches the transmission into “Sport” or even “Manual” mode, it also turns into a devastatingly fast sports sedan. Wonderful.

Audi A5 Sportback – Verdict

Priced around R50 000 more than an equivalent A4, the Audi A5 Sportback is a very enticing new proposition in the executive car segment. Think of it as a slightly smaller Jaguar XF, and you’ll have a good understanding of its character. Besides the good looks and stable handling, the real gem in this package is the engine – the 3,0-litre turbodiesel must rate as one of the best on the market at present. So, yes… some practicality is sacrificed because the Audi A5 Sportback is a four-seater only, but we don’t think this will be a deal breaker. In fact, cars such as this Audi A5 Sportback may just lure new converts to the Audi brand.

We like:

• Classy looks
• Excellent engine
• Grip and poise
• Fuel economy
• Quality

We don’t like:

• Not much… four-seater only
• Pricey

Fast Facts:

Engine: 3,0-litre, V6, turbodiesel
Power: 180 kW @ 4 000 rpm
Torque: 500 Nm @ 1 300 rpm
Transmission: Seven-speed dual-clutch
Wheels: 17-inch alloy
Top speed: 250 km/h 0-100 km/h: 6,1 seconds
Fuel economy: 6,6 litres/100 km

Source: www.um.co.za

Also consider:

• Jaguar XF 3,0 V6 Diesel Luxury: It has been a long time since Jaguar has been this competitive. The XF is a stunner and when equipped with this 3,0-litre diesel engine, remains an entertaining car. The interior is spectacular.

• BMW 330d Individual Steptronic: OK, the 3 Series may be a “traditional” compact executive sedan, but if you’re looking for an entertaining diesel express, then look no further. Slightly cheaper than the Audi A5 Sportback, and just as fast.

• Mercedes-Benz C350 CDI Avantgarde 7G-tronic: Like the BMW, offers exceptional performance and economy wrapped in a regular-shaped body. Not quite as entertaining as the BMW, and not as interesting as the Audi A5 Sportback. Feels bulletproof.

BMW M3 GTS video

We previously featured the new BMW M3 GTS and now you get to see it in motion and on the track. Check out this BMW M3 GTS video to get you all revved up.

BMW M3 GTS Video

 

BMW M3 GTS cleared for market launch

The BMW M3 range is massively popular in South Africa, albeit quite rare due largely to its hefty price tag. That said any new models in the M range will surely receive a warm welcome to South African car buyers. It’s popularity is obviously down to the incredible performance the M-series can produce as well the cars aggressive looks and sporting design.

BMW M3 GTS is a sporting road racer

Introducing the BMW M3 GTS, a car designed for the racetrack but is also at home on the road. The BMW M3 GTS is the most powerful offering in the M3 coupe range. Sporting a V8 331kW/450 bhp engine the M3 GTS accelerates from 0-100km/h in just 4.4 seconds and has a top speed of 305km/h. The car has been optimized for the race track, but quite importantly, it is still road-legal.

The gearbox is a 7-speed and the transmission of power is effected by the M Dual Clutch Drivelogic. Being developed for racing, the transmission is able to shift through gears without interruption of traction. Inside the car, are bucket racing-seats, carbon-interior trims, an Alcantara M steering wheel. Again focusing on the racing aspect, the car is fitted with a roll-bar and 6-point seat belts as well as a fire extinguisher.

Click on the link to see the BMW M3 GTS in action on the track.

VW Polo 1,6 TDI Comfortline (2010) Driving Impression

“Excuse me! How much?!” … A common response when told the price of the subject of this review, the VW Polo 1,6 TDI Comfortline. There’s simply no getting away from it, this is a pricey car. Were it badged “GTI”, folks would be more understanding, but based on our time with this TDI model, overcoming the issue of a perceived high price may be the biggest stumbling block that faces this model. It is therefore also the single most important question that needs to be answered. Is the VW Polo 1,6 TDI Comfortline good value for money?

No design surprises for VW Polo

Perhaps a part of the problem is the fact that the VW Polo 1,6 TDI Comfortline looks exactly like one of its cheaper siblings. Don’t get us wrong, the VW Polo is a handsome little car with exceptionally tight shutlines and the type of classy conservatism that will ensure it enduring appeal for many more years, but when spending around R220 000, perhaps the customer will want onlookers to realise that this is a “special” Polo. Then again, it has to be said that, even in its cheaper forms the VW Polo arguably looks more expensive than it is. The extensive colour coding, 15-inch alloy wheels and fog lamps all contribute to its upmarket appearance. It’s a similar story inside, because even the cheapest Polo’s feel like premium products in the cabin, although they may not be very generously specified.

The facia is largely constructed from soft-touch materials and even the hard plastics have a silky finish to them. Everything works with a soft, damped manner and the fit and finish are truly impeccable, especially for this segment of vehicle. In many ways this great perceived quality makes up for the rather sparse standard features package. Yes, you get climate control, electric windows, power steering and a radio/CD system (aux-in support) with remote audio controls, but considering the price, perhaps Volkswagen could have included a few more “nice to haves” such as auto lights and wipers?

The safety specification is good though, with the VW Polo boasting four airbags, ABS with EBD and even an electronic stability system (ESP). Passenger comfort is exceptional, especially in front. The front seats are, in typical Volkswagen fashion, supportive and cosseting, and both offer height adjustability. The steering wheel can also be adjusted for rake and reach, allowing the driver to easily find a perfect seating position. Space in the rear is not as generous as in some competitors, perhaps because at 2 470 mm the wheelbase is not that lengthy, but the seat is excellent, so comfort levels remain high. The boot measures a useful 280 litres and is well shaped to accommodate bulky objects. Of course, the rear seat is split 60/40 and can fold down.

Exceptional Economy

Powering this VW Polo is a 1,6-litre turbodiesel engine that develops 77 kW and 250 Nm of torque. Volkswagen says the maximum torque arrives at 1 500 rpm and remains available until 2 500. They didn’t lie. Once up and running in this power band, the VW Polo responds to throttle inputs with eagerness, feeling considerably more powerful than it is. It can even complete the benchmark 100 km/h sprint in a reasonable 10,4 seconds. The engine is also exceptionally economical, with a fuel consumption of as low as 4,2 L/100 km being possible with some effort.

Unfortunately the engine is not as impressive in other respects, most notably refinement. The clatter at idle is not the major issue, but rather vibrations that can be felt in the cabin. The VW Group can, and usually does better with its diesel engine refinement. Contributing to the problem is the transmission. Again, it is impressive with its slickness at higher speeds, but when pulling away the abrupt clutch action combines with the relatively poor low-down torque to make pull-aways in traffic tricky, often leading to stalling. The standard hill-hold function at least goes some way to making these moments (somewhat) less stressful. As is the case with all Polos, the ride/handling balance is very well judged for this market.

The ride is beautifully damped, with the VW Polo managing to soak up bumps like a larger car. The suspension is also quiet, with very little road noise and tyre roar reaching the cabin. It is less impressive when pushing on, Volkswagen again prioritising safety and refinement over edgy dynamics – a wise choice that only boy racers won’t agree with.

VW Polo 1,6 TDI – Verdict

So, is the VW Polo 1,6 TDI Comfortline worth the money? There’s no easy answer. It lacks a standard service plan, for one, and compared with the more affordable and more powerful Peugeot, also a whole lot of features. On the other hand, the VW Polo is likely to allow you to recoup much of that initial cost difference upon trade-in or resale, because residuals are strong. And, perhaps best of all, the Volkswagen never fails to impress you with its upmarket feel, especially with regards to the cabin. The stumbling drivetrain is perhaps the one weak link, but toward the end of the test period we had even grown used to its particular driving characteristics. It grows on you, this VW Polo.

We like:

• Fuel economy
• Build quality
• Comfort
• Excellent ride refinement

We don’t like:

• Pricey
• Easy to stall

Fast Facts: 

Engine: 1,6-litre, four-cylinder, turbodiesel
Power: 77 kW @ 4 400 rpm
Torque: 250 N.m @ 1 500 rpm
Transmission: Five-speed manual
Wheels: 15-inch alloy
Top speed: 189 km/h 0-100 km/h: 10,4 seconds
Fuel economy: 4,2 L/100 km

Source: www.um.co.za

Also consider:

• Peugeot 207 1,6 Dynamic HDI: Slightly cheaper than the VW Polo, and similarly powerful but packed with LOTS more features. On paper the Peugeot looks like the far better choice, but remember resale value…

• Citroen C3 1,4 HDI: Brand new on the market and significantly cheaper than the VW Polo while offering more features and a standard service plan. Like the Peugeot, however, this French rival – good as it is – is likely to suffer severe depreciation.

• Ford Fiesta 1,6 TDCI Ambiente: Down on power and torque, and quite sparsely equipped, the Ford is not as strong a competitor as it could be. Very economical though, and fun to drive. A service plan is standard.

New Porsche 911 GT2 RS Details Released

The new Porsche 911 GT2 RS is only making it’s world debut at the Moscow Motor Show in August the 25th but here are some advanced details about the car to whet your appetite. Dubbed as the top of the range 911, the GT2 RS is the fastest and most powerful road-sports car that Porsche have ever made. This has been achieved by increasing the horse power by 90 and yet dropping the overall weight, thus increasing the power to weight ratio and bringing it in at an impressive 2.21kg / horse power.

New Porsche 911 GT2 RS – Features

As is the trend with most new cars in development, even the new Porsche 911 GT2 RS has focused on reducing fuel consumption and reducing emissions. The figures are down approximately 5% compared to 911 GT2. The engine is a 3.6 litre 6-cylinder and is boosted by 2 turbochargers. This gives the 911 GT2 RS a very impressive 0-100km/h in just 3.5seconds and a top speed of 330km/h.

Regarding the looks, there are some improvements over the GT2 version. The wheels are wider and the wheel arches are flared up at the front. The front and rear spoiler lip has been upgraded and is now 10mm higher and made from carbon finish. The interior is also styled out in various sporting features, with light weight bucket seats once again made of carbon-fibre finish. There has also been extra styling on the roof lining, steering wheel rim, gearshift and handbrake.

The new Porsche 911 GT2 RS will be available in Europe in September and in the US in October and will be limited to 500 units.

Audi A1 pre-orders have started

Advanced sales of the new Audi A1 have begun, unfortunately the pre-orders are only open to European buyers at the moment. The good news though is the price seems very reasonable, with the price starting at just 15 800 Euros, roughly R151 600. Which for an Audi is not too bad at all. There will no doubt be import costs and the like, so it will likely be more expensive in South Africa but thats something we have come to expect.

New market for Audi A1

The aim of the Audi A1 is to target a completely new Audi audience, as this is Audi’s first venture into the compact car segment. It remains to be seen just how successful the Audi A1 will be, but there definitely seems to be a trend around the world focusing on smaller, cheaper and more economical cars. As seen by the popularity of the Volkswagen Polo and Ford Fiesta. Audi notes that of the initial 100 000 or so people that signed up to be notified of the advanced sales, 90% of them have never owned an Audi. So their plan in theory is working.

The Audi A1 officially goes into production on the 11th May and 50 000 units are expected to be produced by the end of the year.

New Mercedes-Benz engines developed

New Mercedes-Benz engines have been developed with world class fuel efficiency. These V-series engines plan to be the best in segment. The new Mercedes-Benz V6 and V8 engines hope to lead the way in efficiency and advanced technology in an attempt to produce more power with reduced consumption.

Big improvements for new Mercedes-Benz engines

The new V8 engine displaces 4663cc with an output of 320kW (435hp). This is around 12% more than the previous engine and yet still 0.8 litres less displacement. More impressive stats show that the torque has increased from 530Nm to 700Nm and yet the fuel consumption has dropped by 22%.

The V6 engine provides similarly impressive stats, within the S 350 the fuel consumption is an impressive 7.6 litres per 100km. This was achieved by the use of start/stop technology, which has become somewhat common place in most new cars that are being developed. Adding to this technology is third generation direct petrol injection with spray-guided combustion, multi-injection and multi-spark ignition.

The key factor in the design of the new Mercedes-Benz engines was to increase the output and still reduce the fuel efficiency, instead of just producing newer power-house engines capable of massive output but at massive fuel consumption. This is a particular impressive feat for Mercedes-Benz and shows just how much life the combustion engine still has while still being economical and more friendly to the environment.

Aprilia RSV4 Biaggi replica debut

Aprilia have offered the general public a bike, as close to the one that Max Biaggi rides as possible. The Aprilia RSV4 Biaggi replica has been produced as close to the original as possible, for the bike and racing enthusiast.

With a weight of 175kg it produces 200 horses. The bike comes standard at 50 000 Euros which is rather pricey but this is a bike that is only really for the enthusiast anyway.

Funnily enough, this bike can be used in the entry level of the SBK class in accordance with FIM regulations.

Hyundai ix35 2,0 CRDi R 4×4 Auto (2010) Driving Impression

It is perhaps only in a few years’ time that the Hyundai Tucson will receive the recognition it truly deserves. After all, Hyundai had been making steady progress for years with its Elantra and Accent models, but it was the advent of the Tucson, a solid, if unspectacular compact crossover that arrived at just the right time that cemented Hyundai’s place on many a current and future car shopper’s shortlist. The Korean brand had judged the evolution of the compact SUV/crossover market better than most, and developed its Tucson in line with those requirements, rather than being constrained by historical beliefs dictating significant off-road ability. The result… many thousands of Tucsons have found happy South African owners. And judging by the Tucson successor, the Hyundai ix35, Hyundai has just shifted up another gear… or three.

Upmarket looks for Hyundai ix35

While the Tucson boasted a neat, if somewhat conservative design that will stand the test of time, the Hyundai ix35 has moved the brand upmarket by a considerable margin. the Hyundai ix35 features the new signature Hyundai grille, aggressively swept-back headlamps, pronounced shoulder lines and a coupe-like, narrow window line. We suspect customers will like the new look, especially when the design is further enhanced by the top-line specification level, as featured here. Look out for attractive 18-inch alloy wheels as standard, as well as a twin-sunroof. It is also worth noting that there appears to be plenty of substance to the ix35’s apparent style – it weighs more than 1,7 tonnes and has a relatively long wheelbase of 2 640 mm.

The generous exterior dimensions translate into a roomy cabin with plenty of stretch-out space for all occupants, even those seated in the rear. In fact, perhaps the second-row legroom has been achieved at the cost of some boot space, because although the load area can accommodate 591 litres-worth of luggage, and is well-shaped, some rivals offer more space. It is worth nothing, however, that the Hyundai ix35 boasts a full-size spare wheel under that boot board, and that the rear seats can fold down to accommodate larger objects.

Quality and sophistication

One of the few complaints that could be raised about the Tucson was its plasticky, somewhat dull facia design. The Hyundai ix35 represents a big step forward in this area. The design, sporting a general “X”-theme, boasts some neat detailing and the quality control looks excellent, even though the facia is still hard to the touch – it doesn’t look that way. The instrumentation is particularly neat, with two deep-set dials and a handy digital display between them. Much of the facia is backlit in a soft blue tone, which further boosts the cabin ambience from ordinary to upmarket.

This flagship model comes very well-equipped, with such goodies as cruise control, dual-zone climate control, remote audio controls, a powerful sound system featuring an amplifier and sub-woofer, keyless start and even a clever camera display integrated into the rear-view mirror. Leather upholstery further accentuates Hyundai’s upmarket ambitions and, on the safety side of things, six airbags are fitted.

Behind the wheel

Thus far, the Hyundai ix35 scores nearly top marks all round, but there are some minor irritations, especially regarding the seating position. For such a modern design, it is strange that Hyundai has decided not to equip the Hyundai ix35 with reach adjustment for the steering wheel, as this item has such a big impact on driver comfort. In the ix35’s case the driving position is further compromised by a seat that doesn’t offer enough vertical adjustment. Consequently, some drivers will find the seat’s lowest position slightly too elevated. The driver’s seat, by the way, boasts electric adjustment.

Fire up the new-generation, common-rail diesel engine (this Hyundai ix35 has keyless go) and you may be taken aback slightly by the fairly clattery result. Give it some throttle, however, and it smoothes out impressively, while also displaying an eagerness to rev that is not always that evident on turbodiesel units of this size/type. The engine also delivers superb power and torque outputs of 130 kW and 392 Nm respectively, the latter figure being especially likely to raise a few eyebrows. But most of all, it’s the linear power delivery and lack of significant lag that impresses most.

The engine is mated with a modern six-speed automatic that offers manual shifting functionality, but most Hyundai ix35 owners will be happy to leave it to its own devices as the gear shifts are generally well-timed and slick. In general, driving all the power goes the front wheels, but up to 50% of power can be channelled rearwards electronically when slip is detected. There is also a four-wheel drive Lock function, which ensures a 50/50 power split. Perhaps surprisingly, the Hyundai ix35 also boasts a hill-descent function, but don’t be fooled… this is not a serious off-roader. The ground clearance is “only” 170 mm.

Stay on the black stuff, however, and the Hyundai ix35 continues to impress. The Hyundai features a multi-link rear suspension design, which lends it impressive body control and stability. The ride is perhaps slightly too firm when pottering around in town, but at cruising speed the Hyundai ix35 displays good bump absorbtion qualities and the cabin is a quiet, comfortable place. It is indeed as a family cruiser that the Hyundai ix35 is particularly appealing – the cabin’s many luxury and entertainment features (including ports for portable audio devices) will keep the family happy while the parent/driver will love the low fuel consumption of around 7,3 L/100 km.

Hyundai ix35 – Verdict

Hyundai’s astonishing rate of progress gathers further pace with the impressive new Hyundai ix35. Perhaps this particular model doesn’t represent the best buy in the line-up – Who really needs four-wheel drive? – but it shows that Hyundai is not only able to build good cars and sell lots of them because they’re cheap, but that this brand increasingly can justify charging the same kind of price as more established rivals, because the quality and capability of its vehicles are on par with the best, or in some cases even slightly ahead. Now add the very appealing back-up provided by a five-year warranty, five-year service plan, and five-year roadside assistance, and you can be sure this model will continue winning many converts to the Hyundai fold…

We like:

  • Build quality
  • Good looks
  • Peace-of-mind back up
  • Spaciousness
  • Standard features
  • Economy


We don’t like:

  • Ride slightly too firm
  • Compromised driving position


Fast facts

Engine: 2,0-litre, four-cylinder, turbodiesel

Power: 130 kW @ 4 000 rpm

Torque: 392 Nm @ 1 800 rpm

Transmission: Six-speed automatic

Wheels: 18-inch alloy

Top speed: 195 km/h

0-100 km/h: 10,1 seconds

Fuel economy: 7,3 litres/100 km

Source: www.um.co.za

Also consider:

  • Honda CR-V 2,2 i-DTEC Executive Auto: A relative newcomer to the South African market and a very attractive, albeit expensive option. The cabin is near MPV-like in the levels of practicality on offer, and the build quality is unrivalled. The engine is a peach, too. Not particularly adept off-road, however.
  • Jeep Cherokee 2,8L CRD Sport Auto: For the more adventurous out there, the Jeep remains an appealing offering, boasting rugged good looks and genuine off-road ability. Unfortunately the interior is a border-line disaster, with poor ergonomics, a cramped driver footwell and unimpressive fit and finish.
  • Nissan X-Trail 2,0D 4×4 SE Auto: The second-generation X-Trail borrows many styling cues from its forebear, but is vastly more upmarket inside, yet not particularly well packaged. Rear legroom is not very generous. If you want to head off-road, the Nissan is better equipped to do so.