BMW 3-Series improved for 2010

Driving pleasure in the BMW 3-Series is reaching new heights yet again in the 2010 model year. Carefully conceived modifications in design, a thoroughly updated and extended range of engines, as well as innovative model features give both the new BMW 3-Series Coupé and the new BMW 3-Series Convertible even greater appeal and style. And at the same time the Saloon and Touring now also come with new power units offering even greater qualities than before.

Benefiting from all these innovations in the powertrain, the BMW 3-Series is able to further strengthen its status as an outstandingly dynamic and exceptionally efficient range of models in the mid-market segment.

Sporty and elegant design for new BMW 3-Series

New design features at the front, side and rear precisely integrated into the car give even greater emphasis to the sporting and elegant character of the BMW 3-Series Coupé and the BMW 3-Series Convertible. At the same time the modifications in design make the silhouette of both models even sleeker and more dynamic as a sign of superior performance.

New diversity in the BMW 3-Series engine range

Entering the 2010 model year, all engines in the BMW 3-Series range fulfill the EU5 emission standard. At the same time the range of engines is being expanded with new entry-level variants for the Coupé and Convertible, as well as a new entry-level diesel for the BMW 3-Series Touring.

The market launch of the new BMW 3-Series Coupé and Convertible also marks the introduction of the BMW 318i powered by a straight-four 2.0-litre 105 kWpetrol engine. The 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel in the new BMW 316d Touring delivers maximum output of 85 kW.

The top-of-the-range BMW 335i available on all body variants of the BMW 3-Series now comes with a 3.0-litre straight-six featuring BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology, High Precision Injection and VALVETRONIC valve management combining supreme output of 225 kW with fuel economy and CO2 management once again enhanced by a significant margin.

Jeep Wrangler Mountain Revealed

Available in the second quarter of 2010, the Jeep Wrangler Mountain edition boasts a rugged outdoor theme, with 32-inch tyres and unique wheel, grill and bumper appliques.

Jeep Wrangler Mountain taps into adventure

Further expanding the iconic Wrangler brand’s reach, Jeep delivers another high-impact, limited-edition model with the Jeep Wrangler Mountain edition.

The Jeep Wrangler Mountain edition is based on the Wrangler Sport S package, and is available in Wrangler Unlimited 4×4 models.

Exterior features include a unique “Mountain” decal on the hood with latitude and longitude coordinates that represent an actual location relating to the “Mountain” theme of the vehicle; grill and bumper appliques; tabular side steps; 32-inch tyres; black tail lamp guards and a fuel-filler door from Mopar.

Available exterior colours include Rescue Green Metallic Clear Coat, Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl Coat and Deep Water Blue Pearl Coat.

Interior features include an embossed seat insert with embroidered “Mountain logo”, and anodized graphite heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) rings.

The Jeep Wrangler Mountain option package will be available in South Africa.

Toyota Hilux takes on Arctic

The company Arctic Trucks runs expeditions and tours through the Arctic, using the Toyota Hilux. The tours gained huge popularity when they were used by Jeremy Clarkson from Top Gear when he attemped (successfully) to be the first car to reach the magnetic north pole. Now anyone can follow in their hero’s footsteps and do their own Arctic tour driving a Toyota Hilux.

Tour Iceland in the Toyota Hilux

The tours last between 2 and 5 days going throughout Iceland. The Toyota Hilux bakkies used are specially setup to endure the harsh conditions. Along with special 38-inch tires which allow the truck to drive in thick snow and ice. The Toyota Hilux was an obvious choice and since it’s launch in 1972 more than 12 million have been sold making it the most popular pickup in Europe according to sales.

Toyota FT-CH unveiled in Detroit

DETROIT, January 11, 2010—Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A, Inc., today unveiled the FT-CH dedicated hybrid concept at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. The Toyota FT-CH is a concept that would address Toyota’s stated strategy to offer a wider variety of conventional hybrid choices to its customers, as it begins to introduce plug-in hybrids (PHVs) and battery electrics (BEVs) in model year 2012, and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCHVs) in 2015 in global markets.

Toyota FT-CH to meet global hybrid demands

“Within the next 10 to 20 years, we will not only reach peak oil we will enter a period where demand for all liquid fuels will exceed supply,” said Jim Lentz, TMS president. “A century after the invention of the automobile, we must re-invent it with powertrains that significantly reduce or eliminate the use of conventional petroleum fuels. One of many alternatives is through what is commonly called the electrification of the automobile. By far, the single most successful example of this has been the gas-electric hybrid.

The CH stands for compact hybrid as in compact class and it’s a concept that can best be defined by comparing it with the mid-size class Prius. The FT-CH captures the spirit and functionality of a car that thrives in the inner-city environment; sized right to be nimble, responsive and maneuverable.

Volkswagen sales best in 2009

“Volkswagen sales in South Africa lead the passenger market in 2009 with total sales of 49 902 units, thereby securing 19.3% of the total passenger market,” said Mike Glendenning, VW of SA Director of Sales and Marketing.

Volkswagen sales shine in tough market conditions

“The Polo range proved to be South Africa’s favourite passenger car with sales of 18 288 units in 2009” said Glendenning.

“The Audi Brand recorded sales of 9 234 units in the premium segment, securing a very satisfactory 3.6% share of the total 2009 passenger market. Audi sales in December exceeded 1 000 units for the first time in 2009 which was a very positive end to 2009 for the Brand”. During December 2009 a total of 19 161 new passenger cars were sold in South Africa.

Total new passenger car sales in December, including sales not reported in detail to NAAMSA, decreased by -16.4 percent when compared to November 2009, and by -8.8 percent when compared to December 2008.

The full year 2009 new passenger car market recorded sales of -21.6 percent below what the market achieved in 2008.

New Branding, New Mobility

For 200 years, Peugeot has uniquely combined emotion and the pursuit of perfection in all its activities. This twofold

approach is in the Marque’s genes.

For example Peugeot has combined:

* Wood and steel to create its first peppermills,

* The saloon and diesel to democratize progress,

* The coupé and the cabriolet to invent the coupé-cabriolet segment and become its leader,

* The saloon and the SUV to launch the 3008,

* Diesel and electric to pioneer the diesel hybrid,

* The saloon and the scooter to develop the BB1.

Peugeot is a unique alliance of the pursuit of perfection and emotion. Peugeot’s aim is to ensure that emotion is always

at the heart of the motoring experience: a Peugeot will never be purely functional.

A NEW SIGNATURE

To broadcast and illustrate its brand project around the world, Peugeot is taking on a new international

claim:

The Lion, associated with Peugeot since 1858, is changing. Created by Peugeot designers, the Lion on the radiator

grille:

* Is simpler in its design,

* More dynamic, with a new posture and a new fluidity,

* Creates a bimetallic effect through the contrast of its mat/lustrous finish.

This Lion is also the Marque’s new logo:

* Three-dimensional for greater modernity,

* It discards its blue flag for a more forceful effect,

* The Peugeot blue becomes darker and is now combined with the new typography of the Marque’s name.

The first vehicle to display the new Lion is the Peugeot RCZ which will be launched in the spring of 2010.

Toyota Prado 4,0 VX Automatic (2010) Driving Impression

With Toyota’s Hilux-based Fortuner doing brisk business in South Africa and elsewhere, the brand’s more luxurious and sophisticated Prado model has, to some extent, been left with no alternative but to move up the price ladder. Priced at over R700 000, the move puts the Toyota Prado among vehicles that may offer less off-road ability, but very desirable badges. Of course, Toyota is a highly respected brand in South Africa, but is this respect enough to guarantee it success in the premium segment of the market?

Awkward looks for Toyota Prado

In its latest guise the Toyota Prado has grown marginally bigger than before – it is 45 mm longer overall, 10 mm wider and 10 mm lower. You’d never say it by looking at it. The bulbous bonnet, pumped up wheelarches and blocky rear end make it look much bigger than its predecessor. And… in the eyes of many, not nearly as attractive either. Look, the new Toyota Prado is certainly imposing with its chrome grille, protruding rear lamps and 220 mm ground clearance, but the design lacks coherency. It’s as if the designers were simply told to make it look big and aggressive.

Inside, the impact of the 2 790 mm wheelbase and 35 mm-longer cabin can immediately be seen, especially if you are sitting in the second or third row. The middle row of seats can slide to afford those seated in the two rear seats more legroom or, alternatively to increase the size of the boot. The middle row seatbacks also offer a reclining function and are mounted slightly higher than those in the front, to give their occupants a better view out of the vehicle. The Prado’s techno upgrade is already visible in the operation of the two rear seats, which are raised and lowered electronically. When they’re occupied boot space is very limited, as is the case with most seven seaters, but folded down the boot is huge, helped by the placement of the large spare wheel on the tailgate.

Loaded with technology

Sink into the soft driver’s chair and you may at first be taken aback by all the high-tech features scattered all over the cliff-like facia. The overall design of the facia is rather old-fashioned and blocky, and it’s as if the various controls and LCD screens were “spray-gunned” onto it in a rather random fashion. For this reason, it takes quite a while to become familiar with the control layouts. Nevertheless, comfort levels are high, with both front seats boasting electric adjustment (with memory for the driver) and even heating. The steering wheel also offers electric rake and reach adjustment.

The driving position is of the high and mighty type, with an emphasis on cruising comfort (cushion length is also adjustable), but there’s very little lateral support. VX specification is very comprehensive and includes three-zone climate control, auto lights/wipers, satellite navigation, rear park assist, keyless entry and cruise control. The touch-screen audio system is very sophisticated, offering CD/DVC playback, auxiliary input support, Bluetooth and voice control. And with the Toyota Prada there’s no compromise in safety,either – seven airbags are packed into the cabin, and there’s also a VSC (vehicle stability control) system. Oh, and of course just about everything is covered in either leather or wood.

Thirsty performance

There are still a significant number of serious off-road enthusiasts out there who will not go the diesel route. These folks will be very pleased with the silky smooth 4,0-litre V6 fitted to this Toyota Prado. It’s not as powerful as its V8 petrol rivals, but then it is significantly more economical. The 202 kW and 381 Nm of torque are nevertheless enough to propel this 2 355 kg behemoth to 100 km/h in 9,2 seconds. Drive it with some restraint and you could average around 11 L/100 km. It goes without saying that the Toyota Prado should be a very good towing vehicle. The five-speed automatic transmission is also well-matched to the engine, generally performing its duties smoothly with little hunting.

It has to be said, however, that around town the Toyota Prado feels somewhat cumbersome. It’s not the best environment for its talents to shine. No, the Toyota Prado prefers the bush to the school-run, that’s for sure. It is packed with high-tech equipment to make it a confident overlander. The angle of approach is 32 degrees and there’s a 700 mm wading depth, too. It runs a lockable Torsen limited-slip centre differential, and there’s a rear diff-lock as well. The multi-terrain select system even features an automated crawl mode which, when selected, will see the Toyota Prado slowly inch itself over just about anything with its driver looking like a real pro behind the steering wheel. It’s a massive confidence booster, this car… you feel unstoppable.

Unfortunately it’s not as good on the road. The ride can feel quite stiff and unyielding on poor surfaces, and yet at the same time there’s also plenty of roll in the corners, with the latter characteristic made to feel even worse by the overly light and vague steering. But, when cruising on mostly straight roads for vast distances, the Toyota Prado wins back lots of points with its quietness and comfort.

Toyota Prado – Verdict

The Toyota Prado is probably as good as a Discovery off-road (acclaim doesn’t come much higher than that), but on tar the Land Rover holds an undeniable advantage. Now add the Toyota’s lack of premium appeal and it’s poorly organised facia layout, and you can understand that the
Prado faces an uphill battle. The Toyota Prado is a good car, but it could easily have been much better still. Its destined to appeal to Toyota diehards only.

We like:

• Off-road ability
• Luxury
• Quality
• Standard specification

We don’t like:

• Fuel consumption
• On-road dynamics
• Poor ergonomics
• Price

Fast Facts:

Engine: 4,0-litre, V6, petrol
Power: 202 kW @ 5 600 rpm
Torque: 381 N.m @ 4 400 rpm
Transmission: five-speed automatic
Wheels: 18-inch alloy
Top speed: 180 km/h
0-100 km/h: 9,2 seconds
Fuel economy: 11,3 L/100 km

Source: www.um.co.za

Also consider:

• Land Rover Discovery 4 5,0 V8 HSE: A truly sublime product that matches the Toyota off-road but puts in a far more convincing display
where it matters most – on the school run… It is similarly heavy on fuel, but altogether feels like a superior product.

• Audi Q7 4,2 FSI quattro Tiptronic: If you don’t need off-road ability, but you do need a luxury seven-seat SUV, then consider this Audi. The powertrain is superb, the on-road dynamics superior, and the cabin a lesson in ergonomic excellence. Scores more points at the golf club too.

• Volvo XC90 V8 Executive Geartronic: No longer a new kid on the block, but the Yamaha-developed V8 engine is a delight, and the XC90’s
inherently practical nature remains very attractive. Not much of an off-roader though, but a great family car.

Nissan Skyline offers revised Sedan and Coupe

The current generation Nissan Skyline Sedan and Coupe, introduced in 2006 and 2007 respectively, have enjoyed a strong reputation for their sporty designs, high-quality interiors and exhilarating performance. Both the Sedan and Coupe models have received a number of significant changes for the revised model, including a revised exterior for the Nissan Skyline Sedan and a refined interior, enhanced navigation system and upgraded air conditioning for both body configurations.

In addition, the model grading system has been revised to include the new, more affordable Skyline Sedan 250GT A package and the Skyline Coupe 370GT A package models.

Nissan Skyline improved with new transmission and engine

Mechanical refinements for the Nissan Skyline include the availability of a 7-speed automatic transmission with the 2-wheel drive Skyline Sedan equipped with the 2.5-liter V6 engine. Previously offered only with the 3.7-liter V6 engine, the 7-speed automatic provides an expanded lockup area and neutral idle control for improved fuel efficiency and smoother, seamless acceleration (versus the previous 5-speed automatic-equipped 2.5-liter Sedan).

This model achieves the “2010 standards plus 15%” target and qualifies for Japan’s preferential program for environment-friendly vehicles*1, with the acquisition tax and weight tax both reduced by half. Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) is also now standard across the entire Nissan Skyline range.

New Alfa Romeo Giulietta to debut in South Africa

This is truly a red-letter year – the shroud of secrecy surrounding Alfa Romeo’s most highly anticipated new C-segment hatch has finally been lifted. It’s name? The new Alfa Romeo Giulietta, possibly one of the most evocative names in motoring history.

World debut for new Alfa Romeo Giulietta

The new Alfa Romeo Giulietta will be presented to the world at the forthcoming Geneva Car Show early in 2010. Sales of the new model will start in Europe in spring gradually be extended to all the major markets. Its South African debut is planned for the third quarter around October.

In the Centenary year, the name is a tribute to an automobile myth and Alfa Romeo. Produced by the Alfa Romeo Style Centre, the  new Alfa Romeo Giulietta is a sports car capable of expressing great agility on the most demanding routes whilst providing comfort on everyday roads.

Combining sportiness and elegance, the new Alfa Romeo Giulietta is the result of Alfa Romeo’s new direction in style and technology – an approach that started with the 8C Competizione supercar and which recalls the brand’s glorious past while projecting its traditional values of technology and emotion into the future.

Toyota market leader for 30 years

Toyota South Africa ended 2009 with a market share of 23% for the year. The company’s share of the market peaked at 26,3% in March, the highest penetration seen in the past two years and followed this up with a 25,9% share in December. Toyota’s total domestic sales in 2009 were 90 701 units in a total market of 395 230 vehicles.

Toyota comes out on top

“As South Africa felt the full impact of the global financial crisis during 2009 and saw total vehicle sales drop of sharply from the 533 387 units of 2008 to 395 230 units for 2009, a decrease of 25,9%,” says Johan van Zyl, the President and CEO of Toyota SA. The last time the South African Motor industry experienced this level of trade was in 2003 when 381 456 vehicles were sold.

“Going into the fourth quarter of 2009 we suggested that the industry could break through the 400 000 mark for the year. That forecast came within a slim margin of being realised and we believe that 400 000 was the real potential of the market for the year and was only impeded by distortions in reporting typically seen in December and January.

“Looking ahead, we see the potential for slow growth in the industry off this relatively low base through 2010. We will be looking for an improvement in sales of at least 5% if we fully realise the bonanza offered by the excitement generated by the soccer world cup. Our volume forecast going into the new year is 415 000.

“While South Africa certainly felt the impact of the global recession, prudent fiscal management in previous years provided a degree of insulation that saw us somewhat better off than a number of more developed countries. While this may have lessened the impact on domestic sales, it could not protect the motor industry from the sharp drop of in export sales as global demand for vehicles collapsed.