Volkswagen Cross Polo ready for market launch

The Volkswagen Cross Polo is going to market and forms part of VW’s long list of new vehicle models. The ever-popular VW Polo just keeps getting improved and revamped and this time around the Polo has been turned into a “lifestyle” SUV that is the Cross Polo.

Volkswagen Cross Polo for the great outdoors

The riding height of the Volkswagen Cross Polo has been raised compared to the normal Polo, along with 17-inch wheels and tyres. The roof-racks complete the SUV-look and give the Cross Polo a true rugged and off-road feel.

Much of the interior has received leather stitch-styling, along with aluminium pedals and chrome styling. The Volkswagen Cross Polo comes standard with a 6-speed manual gearbox but other options include a 7-speed DSG.

The Volkswagen Cross Polo will go on sale in Germany in May, followed by the rest of Europe and Japan.

Ferrari 458 Italia conquers Los Angeles Times

Maranello, 15 February The positive driving impressions by journalists testing the Ferrari 458 Italia continue. The latest is Pulitzer Prize winner Dan Neil, who writes about the Ferrari 458 Italia for the Los Angeles Times, describing the car, its innovations and aesthetic characteristics in the most positive words. The US-journalist especially appreciates the new steering wheels ergonomics with the main commands: brilliant, completely intuitive and ergonomic and so much better than conventional stalks on the column Im surprised no one thought of it sooner.

Ferrari 458 Italia put through its paces

The adverse weather conditions during the test drive Dan Neil tested the car in Maranello during some snowfall enabled him to experience the Ferrari 458 Italia and its extraordinary grip and exceptional steering response.

Dan Neil concludes his article, saying: Ive almost never been as happy as when I returned the perfectly unwrinkled 458 Italia to Ferrari.

Chrysler Group Sales Continue to Improve

Chrysler Group sales are on the up and January continues the trend of increasing market share for the company, following two consecutive quarters of improvement to end 2009.

Chrysler Group Sales Summary

Dodge Brand sales up versus the same time period last year

Dodge Journey year-over-year sales climb for the third month in a row

Jeep Compass, Jeep Grand Cherokee and Jeep Commander all post year-over-year sales improvements

Chrysler Town & Country minivan sales increase 6 percent compared with January 2009

Ten Chrysler, Jeep® and Dodge vehicles post year-over-year sales gains

Chrysler Group Sales shows steady growth

Chrysler Group LLC today announced January U.S. sales data continues to show improvement, following two quarters of increasing share. The popular Dodge Journey, which in 2010 delivers more excitement, functionality and value, posted year-over-year gains for the third consecutive month. In addition, the Jeep® brand saw half of its line-up improve sales year-over-year, reinforcing the Jeep brands heritage as the authentic SUV with class-leading capability, craftsmanship and versatility for people who seek extraordinary journeys.

The company continues to make positive strides each month and that trend continued in January, said Fred Diaz, President and Chief Executive OfficerRam Brand and Lead Executive for the Sales Organization, Chrysler Group LLC. With refreshed products and all-new models hitting the marketplace this year, Chrysler Group employees and dealers are excited to share with consumers all the good things happening in 2010.

Chrysler Group sales (US) for January totalled 57,143 units. U.S. sales decreased 8 percent compared with the same period last year (62,157 units). Inventory (172,803 units) is down 52 percent compared with January 2009 (359,980 units), representing a 73-day supply. Overall industry figures for January are projected to come in at an estimated 10.9 million SAAR.

New VW Polo GTI launched

Aiming to be the fastest and cleanest Polo to date, the new VW Polo GTI comes packed full of enhancements and styling designs.

New VW Polo GTI is fast and sleek

The Polo GTI comes with a 1.4 litre TSI engine with supercharger and clocks a top speed of 229km/h with acceleration from 0-100km/h in just 6.9 seconds. Even though the focus is obviously on performance, VW have still maintained a low emission rate at just 139g/km of CO2.

The gearbox is a 7-speed twin-clutch DSG, while the suspension has been slightly lowered. The drop in suspension means the new VW Polo GTI sits 15mm lower than the standard Polo and this is due to new springs and dampers which are aimed at improving responses.

Regarding the looks, the Polo GTI has a new front bumper and a honeycombe grille. Other enhancements include 17″ wheels and red brake calipers. Rounding off the aesthetic changes are the front lights, which have been replaced with an updated version and give the option of LED running lights.

Inside there are some changes to the dials and the seats and the pedals have been replaced with aluminium versions. Look out for the new VW Polo GTI in a VW dealership soon.

Source: Volkswagen

Ferrari holds firm during world economic crisis

The Ferrari S.p.A Board of Directors met today under the chairmanship of Luca di Montezemolo to examine the end of year results for 2009.

Ferrari leads sports car segment in tough times

Even though the luxury sports car market suffered an average reduction of 35% in 2009, Ferrari recorded only slightly lower results than in 2008, the most financially successful year in the Prancing Horses entire history. A total of 6,250 cars were delivered to end clients (-5%) with a confirmed growth in emerging countries and a controlled contraction in certain of our more mature markets. The sharply contracting market made Ferraris market share grow across the board with an average increase worldwide of 10 percentage points, garnering it leadership of the sports car segment.

These results were reached thanks to the completion of the range and in particular with the extraordinary success of the Ferrari California for which 60% of the customers are new Ferraristi.

The most recent car, the Ferrari 458 Italia, deliveries of which only just started, made no contribution to the 2009 figures, but it has already obtained exceptionally positive reviews and prestigious awards all around the world.

Consolidated revenues at the end of 2009 stood at 1,778 million euro (-7%) with an operating profit of 245 million euro, compared to 341 million euro last year. Ferrari recorded a ROS (Return on Sales) for 2009 of 13.8%. The variation of the operating result is due to the negative effects of volumes and product mix (both of which were extremely positive in 2008) as well as unfavourable exchange rates. The weakness of the US dollar has a major impact since over 30% of sales are made in this currency.

Nissan Patrol becomes new class-leader

Abu Dhabi, UAE (Feb. 13, 2010) Reliable, unbreakable, affordable. The Nissan Patrol is a name synonymous with ruggedness, a legendary off-roader capable of going anywhere, anytime. Meticulously honed for over five decades, the Patrol is Nissans flagship large SUV model and enjoys a rich heritage particularly in the Middle East that dates back to the 1950s. This off-road trendsetter was one of the first dedicated four-wheel-drive vehicles in the climatically demanding Middle East region, and boasts the notable distinction of also being the first vehicle to successfully cross the grueling Simpson Desert in Australia back in 1962.

New Nissan Patrol ushers in new era

Under the banner of The Hero Comes Home the Nissan Patrol is back as an all-new seventh generation model, building on its impressive history, but at the same time, incorporating a new platform, a radical new design direction, significantly enhanced interior comfort and luxury, powerful new V8 engines, a 7-speed automatic transmission and a new 4WD system.

We paid special attention to the needs of current Nissan Patrol owners, and their passengers, and so focused on creating first-class levels of comfort for the whole family. Heightened luxury, a roomier cabin and a quieter ride combine to achieve this goal, while maintaining Patrols superior off-road heritage stresses Hiroyuki Fushiki, project head and Segment Chief Product Specialist.

More world-firsts

Nissan designers paid special attention to the second row seat passengers by not only significantly expanding legroom, but by also fitting a new multi-screen DVD entertainment system, a first form Nissan. It boasts two rear-facing TVs; one 7-inch monitor embedded into each front seat headrest.

Fitted with six airbags for top grade, the Nissan Patrol also comes with a totally revised climate control system boasting another world-first the curtain vent. Curtain vent has several small but highly effective vents mounted in the ceiling above each side window to blow a strong current of cool air down forming a curtain of air that acts as a barrier to heat penetrating the cabin.

Yet another impressive Nissan Patrol feature is the cool box mounted in the centre console between the front seats. Incorporating a unique double hinge design, the lid of the cool box can be opened easily from either the front or second row of seats to access the six 600ml drink bottles inside.

National Hare & Hound Series – 2nd round Ridgecrest, CA

FMF/KTM rider David Pearson won his first AMA National Hare & Hound event, at the second round of the series, since his return to racing from a broken femur in 2008.
Pearson has a new outlook on the 2010 racing season, switching both his training program and bike. Pearson has already lost 20 lbs as a result of his new training schedule and switched to the KTM 450 XC-F after years of racing the KTM 530 XC-F. I definitely felt like I havent been 100% since injuring my femur and with my new workout and riding routines I feel more confident. I also feel that the 450 is a more suitable bike for my racing style and I am really excited to race this bike for the 2010 Hare & Hound season, remarked Pearson.

The day started out and ended well for the 26 year-old Nevada resident as he pulled the holeshot and led the first loop of the race. The first loop was fast, whooped out and rocky, having a good start definitely worked to my advantage as I didnt have to fight through the dust, stated Pearson. His teammate, David Kamo, had a great start as well staying within 10 seconds of Pearson as they came into the first gas stop.

During the second, more technical loop, the top five riders got turned around due to poor course markers which allowed the racers to close in on one another. We had to look to each other to try to figure out the course so by the end of the second loop we were all within seconds of one another, said Kamo.

Entering the third and final loop, Pearson battled with Kamo and Destry Abbott for the lead position. Kamo held the lead for a moment before hitting neutral on a steep uphill and allowing Pearson and Abbott to get around. I made the pass on Abbott for the lead with approximately ten miles to go. It was a very close race today and I am excited to land on the top of the podium, stated Pearson. Abbott finished in 2nd place 14 seconds behind Pearson while Kamo was an additional 49 seconds behind Abbott in 3rd.

Mercedes-Benz E350 Elegance 7G-tronic (2010) Driving Impression

Last year we reviewed the E300 version of the three-pointed stars new executive sedan range and found it a welcome return to traditional Mercedes virtues of solidity, conservatism and comfort. The new E-Class may not be a stylistic masterpiece, but in a market increasingly filled with wannabe sports sedans all trying to out-corner the 5 Series, its more sober approach is actually refreshing. In this test we focus on the more expensive Mercedes-Benz E350 derivative, a car that has to battle some pretty powerful rivals from the likes of Jaguar, Audi and, of course, old foe BMW. Can it reinforce the good first impressions left by the E300?

Classy Conservatism for Mercedes-Benz E350

Theres not much to differentiate the bigger-engined model from its smaller sibling both cars ride on 17-inch alloy wheels so immediately customers may be tempted to dive into the very vast optional extras list. Having now seen a few E-Classes on the road sporting bigger wheels etc, it has to be said that the shape gains a degree of menace when the wheels fill the arches more snugly. But, in standard form, the E-Class is a hefty looking vehicle that reminds of the type of sedans Mercedes used to build in the 80s, such as the immortal W124. There are little hints of flair here and there most notably the curve over the rear wheelarches which is said to have been inspired by the classic Pontoon sedan. What is very obvious when first seeing the new Mercedes-Benz E350 is its bulk. It measures 4 868 mm in length, and the square-cut looks and, especially the wide rear lamps, accentuate its width. Thankfully the growth in dimensions has translated into an even more spacious cabin than before. Rear legroom is significantly improved, and the boot measures a commodious 540 litres. Pity that you have to pay extra for a folding rear seat!

In front, drivers of the previous-generation E-Class will immediately notice some rather big changes. The old cars curvy, flowing facia has been replaced by a very square, conservative design that initially looks like a step backwards. Spend some time in the cabin, however, and youll come to appreciate its impeccable build and improved ergonomics. One senses that Mercedes had spent a lot of time and money making sure that the various high-tech controls and displays are neatly integrated into the design. The digital display within the speedo is a case in point, as is the hooded large screen on top of the facia. Driver comfort in the Mercedes-Benz E350 is exemplary, even though the seats initially feel overly firm. The drivers seat is electrically adjustable (including height and memory) and the steering offers generous rake/reach adjustment. Most drivers will quickly find an ideal position, even though typical Mercedes quirks such as the foot-operated park brake and single column stalk remain.

The standard features package covers all the necessities required of a luxury car. The Mercedes-Benz E350 comes fitted with climate control, auto lights/wipers, radio/CD player with Bluetooth, cruise control, front and rear park assist and leather upholstery. There are also eight airbags, ESP (electronic stability system) and hill-start assist.

Underwhelming Engine

This Mercedes-Benz E350 is powered by a stalwart of the Mercedes line-up, a naturally aspirated 3,5-litre V6 that delivers 200 kW and 350 Nm of torque. As is the case with the E300, the engine is matched with Mercedes seven-speed 7G-tronic transmission, driving the rear wheels. Mercedes claims a 0-100 km/h time of 6,6 seconds for this model, which promises much in the way of performance. Unfortunately, the Mercedes-Benz E350 never quite lives up to performance expectations. In fact, the E300, which has 30 kW and 50 Nm less to work with, feels somehow more refined and just as athletic. Were not saying that the E350 is slow or unrefined, just that, perhaps, the cheaper E300 does, relatively speaking, a more impressive job Interestingly, the E300 and E350 have identical fuel consumption figures (9,1 L/100 km).

Finally, as ever, the 7G-tronic transmission is generally smooth during up-shifts, but can be clunky when shifting down. As we reported with the E300, the cars weight and size create expectations of compromised dynamics, but in reality the E-Class is a capable handler. The Mercedes-Benz E350, like its smaller sibling, feels very stable and precise when driven hard, and yet the ride quality remains impressively supple over all surfaces. Due mostly to its superbly isolated cabin environment and the aloof steering feel, it never really allows the driver to form a close bond with it, but thats not a major concern and one senses it is exactly what Mercedes had intended.

Mercedes-Benz E350 – Verdict

Overall, the E-Class continues to impress with its solidity, focus on comfort and refinement, ride quality and luxury. We cant help but wonder, however, if the cheaper E300 is not a better buy than this E350. From behind the steering wheel they feel similarly fast, and the fuel economy is the same. Relatively speaking, the 3,5-litre engine in this model feels slightly behind the times. Perhaps, Mercedes, its time to bring out the turbos?

We like:

Spacious cabin
Cabin comfort
Ride
Solidity

We dont like:

Engine outclassed by rivals
7G-tronic doesnt impress
Stodgy design

Fast Facts

Engine: 3,5-litre, V6, petrol
Power: 200 kW @ 6 000 rpm
Torque: 350 Nm @ 2 400 rpm
Transmission: seven-speed automatic
Wheels: 17-inch alloy
Top speed: 250 km/h 0-100 km/h: 6,6 seconds
Fuel economy: 9,1 litres/100 km

Source: www.um.co.za

Also consider:

BMW 550i Steptronic: Right now, BMW is replacing the 5 Series with an all-new model, so there are good deals to be had on the outgoing and still very competent model, including this extremely fast and fun 550i. Go haggle

Audi A6 3,0T FSI quattro Tiptronic: The current A6 is nearing the end of its product life cycle, but remains a solid choice for more conservative folk. Its design may no longer be cutting edge, but the engine is bang up to date, and the standard specification far more generous.

Lexus GS450h SE: This petrol/electric hybrid offers comparable power and is similarly priced to the Mercedes-Benz E350. The GS is often underrated, offering exceptional build quality, a spacious feature-rich cabin, and superb ride comfort. An interesting alternative.

Toyota Verso 2,0 D-4D TX (2010) Driving Impression

The first Toyota Verso was perhaps a surprisingly big success, even for local distributor, Toyota South Africa. After all, it had not really been known previously for its MPVs, whereas rivals Renault and Opel have historically been far more active in this category. Counting in the Versos favour, however, was not only the Toyota badge. It also offered interesting looks, a well-made and comfortable cabin, and a clever seven-seat system. Now the second-generation Toyota Verso is here and, at first glance, it appears to offer much of the same.

Neat and inoffensive looks for Toyota Verso

With its clear tail lamps the previous (Corolla) Verso was quite a looker in a segment dominated by bland products. The newcomer follows the theme and is immediately recognisable as a Toyota, by virtue of its Yaris-like front-end and, once again, quirky, clear-lens tail lamps. Of course, the surfacing of the Toyota Verso bodywork is more modern this time round, with a curve here and there, yet overall the look is familiar. Still, the newcomer does look ever so slightly sportier, mostly because it boasts wider track widths and a longer wheelbase.

In terms of overall length, though, the Toyota Verso is similar to its predecessor. Smart 16-inch alloy wheels are standard. It is inside where the move upmarket is most apparent. The facia materials are mostly of the soft-touch variety, and the old models quirky ice-blue plastic centre panel has made way for a more conservative (and stylish) satin silver unit. Everything has a quality look and feel, and its only the slightly old-fashioned orange backlighting of the instrumentation that somewhat spoils the effect.

Like many MPVs, the Toyota Verso uses a central instrumentation cluster, with the dials angled aggressively towards to the driver. One wonders, then, what the point of mounting them in the middle was in the first place! The previously mentioned silver-backed section sits high-up, and places the controls for the audio and ventilation systems within easy reach. The gearlever is similarly elevated for convenience. Overall, the driving position is excellent, even though it takes a while to get used to the empty facia in front of you. The steering wheel boasts plenty of range for its rake/reach adjustment, and the seat can be moved up and down, too.

Clever Seating System

Comfort levels are high throughout the spacious cabin of the Toyota Verso. Both the second- and third-row seats offer reclining backrests, and legroom is good in both rows, though obviously the third is not really suitable for tall adults. Those seated in the second row will also enjoy the airliner-style flip-up trays affixed the front seatbacks, roll-up sunblinds and storage boxes underneath their feet. With the third row occupied, boot space is negligible (as is the case with most seven-seat MPVs of this size). But Toyotas Easy-Flat7 system allows for many configurations, including flat folding of the middle row while leaving the third row in place.

With five passengers occupying the front two rows, and the third row folded flat, boot space is very impressive. The standard specification is comprehensive, including dual-zone climate control, auto lights/wipers, radio/CD (with aux input), remote audio controls, Bluetooth and cruise control. It should also be very safe, as it features no fewer than seven airbags, rear Isofix child-seat mountings and Toyotas VSC stability control system. Perhaps the only slight disappointment (for some) will be the standard cloth upholstery.

Economical and Refined

Power comes from Toyotas 2,0-litre, four-cylinder turbodiesel engine that develops 93 kW and an impressive 310 Nm of torque. Besides very slight low-speed turbo-lag and too much clatter at start-up, this is a very good powerplant. Once past the initial lag, the flow of power remains strong all the way to 2 400 rpm, and it also exhibits excellent refinement. The six-speed manual transmission is commendably slick, and when cruising in sixth on the open road, the fuel economy is truly exceptional. During normal driving, expect to achieve a fuel consumption figure of around 6,5 L/100 km. But as impressive as the gearbox is, for this kind of vehicle perhaps an automatic transmission would be a preferable choice, as it would also to a large degree address the low-speed lag issue. The ride quality of the Toyota Verso is similarly refined, offering exceptional compliancy, yet also remaining quite resistant to roll in the corners. For the target market its combination of suppleness and stability is probably spot-on. The Toyota Verso is a very relaxing vehicle to drive over long distances, at least partly because it also feels very composed and safe in all conditions.

Toyota Verso – Verdict

In short, Toyota has refined a winning recipe with this latest Verso. The packaging of the cabin is probably class-leading, the standard specification very carefully considered and the ride set-up pretty much spot-on. The engine delivers exceptional fuel economy and is beautifully refined (once it gets going), but we cant help but feel that the six-speed manual box is unnecessary in this vehicle, and that a simple automatic would please most likely customers more. Still, Toyota remains at the forefront of this now shrinking market segment. Renaults new Grand Scenic is its strongest competitor, but the Toyota pretty much matches it in all respects, and offers the allure of that Toyota servicing network and peace of mind. It cant fail.

We like:

Fuel economy
Equipment level
Comfort
Excellent ride refinement
Quality

We dont like:

Slight low-speed lag
Fitment of manual transmission

Fast Facts:

Engine: 2,0-litre, four-cylinder, turbodiesel
Power: 93 kW @ 3 600 rpm
Torque: 310 N.m @ 1 800 rpm
Transmission: six-speed manual
Wheels: 16-inch alloy
Top speed: n/a km/h 0-100 km/h: n/a seconds (11,8 sec est.)
Fuel economy: n/a L/100 km (6 L/100 km est.)

Source: www.um.co.za

Also consider:

Volkswagen Touran 1,9 TDI Trendline: Cheaper than the Toyota Verso but it is not as well-equipped and also down on power. If you want a comparable VW, youll have to spend extra and get the very impressive 2,0 TDI Highline. But the Toyota Verso is a match for it.

Renault Grand Scenic 1,9dCi Dynamique: Also new on the market and without doubt the Versos deadliest rival. It offers an exceptionally clever cabin loaded with gadgets and is a superbly economical and comfortable tourer.

Fiat Multipla 1,9 MultiJet Dynamic: Laugh all you want but this quirky Fiat is actually a good vehicle. Offering two rows of three seats, it is ultimately not quite as practical as the Toyota Verso, but theres huge packing space.

New Audi A1 introduced

INGOLSTADT, Germany, Feb 10, 2010 – Audi is introducing a whole new dimension to the compact class this summer. It is dynamic and high quality, emotional and individual. It condenses all of the virtues of the brand down to less than four meters a design full of character, uncompromising quality and pioneering efficiency technologies. The agile chassis and powerful engines make the new Audi A1 the sportiest car in the segment.

New Audi A1 aimed at younger market

The young customers of the Audi A1 live in major cities and therefore are looking for a vehicle that is designed for the urban environment. Thanks to its compact dimensions, it is very agile and nimble in city traffic and offers a high degree of everyday utility.

The new Audi A1 is a true Audi it is both the premium option and the sportiest automobile in the small compacts class. It comes with powerful, highly efficient engines and an agile chassis, and delights with an emotional design and excellent fit and finish. The new Audi A1 has a broad portfolio of advanced technologies on board; its infotainment system, in particular, sets new standards in the class.

As the newcomer in the compact segment, the new Audi A1 appeals primarily to young, lifestyle-oriented customers, offering them a high degree of freedom for individual design. Audis latest A1 will hit the streets this summer with a base price of around 16,000 euros.