Mercedes-Benz sales rise in third quarter

Mercedes-Benz sales for the month of September 2009  totaled 2 047 units, representing a market share of over 10%. This figure contributes to a year-to-date total sales of 15 967 units giving a market share of 9,5%, an increase of almost 1% compared to the 2008 year-to-date figures.

Mercedes-Benz sales remain strong in economic turmoil

This equates to a market share of over 30% in the luxury segment, where the Mercedes-Benz model range competes.

“Despite the very challenging market conditions, we are pleased that we have been able to enjoy relatively good sales,” says Eckart Mayer, divisional manager, Mercedes-Benz Cars. “We believe that our focussed approach and our strong partnership with our dealers, are key contributing factors. Once again our loyal customers have supported us well and also an increasing number of non-traditional Mercedes-Benz customers, who are coming over to our brand,” adds Mayer.

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class has been a major contributor to overall sales, with units of 1 520 units in September, giving a market share of close to half of the medium-luxury segment.

“The success of the C-Class can be attributed to the high level of standard features that this model offers, which is apparent by the positive feedback received by customers.”

“The recently introduced E-Class sedan and coupe models have enjoyed significant sales, and we will be introducing three new model variants to the range towards the end of the month. The diesel engines offering will include the E250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY and the E350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, which, together with the E200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY 4-cylinder petrol model, will further enhance the exciting E-Class offering,” adds Mayer

Source: Mercedes-Benz

Volkswagen Golf 2,0 TDI Highline (2009) Driving Impression

Although the Volkswagen Golf has boasted the best perceived quality levels in its class for many years, the sixth-generation model of this icon has introduced near-Audi levels of sophistication in its cabin, meaning it is now knocking rather loudly on the premium class’s door. This, Volkswagen believes, firmly places the Golf in a higher class than “mere” Astras and Civics, but the question is whether the market will perceive it that way too. Or has the Volkswagen Golf simply evolved too far from its “quality for the man in the street” roots?

Premium Detailing for Volkswagen Golf

As the Volkswagen Golf 6 is heavily based on the preceding model, some have labelled it merely a facelift. Technically, this may be accurate, but even so the changes are substantial and not merely restricted to a fresh grille and lights, as facelifts tend to be. It is significantly more upmarket in appearance, with the subtle use of chrome lending a premium touch to what is otherwise a handsome, if conservative design. In Highline trim the Golf’s shape also benefits from the fitment of large 17-inch alloy wheels which boost the kerb-side appeal a lot. In front it has adopted the new “slim grille” face of VW.

Open the solid-feeling doors and you’re immediately struck not by the upmarket look of the cabin, but by – don’t laugh – that typical German premium car “aroma”. This means that the Volkswagen Golf pleases all the senses, because the interior doesn’t only “look” and “feel” upmarket, but smells it too. Much of the architecture inside the cabin will be familiar if you’ve driven a Golf before, but the detail changes have been intensive. The quality of the facia moulding and trim pieces have been lifted another notch or two, and the use of satin silver/chrome accenting again creates the illusion of driving something very expensive.

High Comfort Levels

As is to be expected from Volkswagen, this Golf ticks all the comfort boxes. The steering wheel is lovely to grip, and boasts generous rake and reach adjustment. The driver’s seat, too, can be adjusted over a wide range and the cushion length and side bolstering play a big part in the Golf’s impressive long-distance comfort. Those seated in the rear are also well-catered for, with sufficient head- and legroom being offered, as well as ventilation outlets. The boot, however, is not the biggest in this class, but is nicely shaped. Plus, the rear seats can of course fold down if more space is required.

Volkswagen is often criticised for offering relatively sparsely furnished cabins, and that’s the case again with this Golf, especially given the relatively high price. Yes, climate control is fitted as standard, as is cruise control, but you still have to pay extra for leather and there are no auto wipers/lights either. No such complaints on the safety side, though… the Volkswagen Golf packs no fewer than seven airbags in addition to boasting ESP (electronic stability system).

Fantastic Diesel Engine

As the name indicates, this Volkswagen Golf is powered by the VW Group’s impressive 2,0-litre turbodiesel engine that also does duty in several Audi products. It delivers 103 kW and a solid 320 Nm of torque from a low 1 750 rpm. The engine is mated with a six-speed manual transmission that exhibits the “notchiness” so typical of VW products. Interestingly, some drivers appear to like this trait, saying the little bit of extra effort required to select the right gear also means that they’re more confident of actually doing so in the end. The Volkswagen Golf performance is sizzling for a diesel five-door hatchback, with a 0-100 km/h time of 9,3 seconds being rather easily achievable. But that’s nothing compared with the fuel economy. A consumption figure of below 5 L/100 km is on the cards if you drive carefully, and that’s just mind-numbingly good.

And  yet, there’s more.

The engine also exhibits excellent refinement. Even at start-up there isn’t much of the typical direct-injection clatter, and it smoothes out very impressively at speed. It therefore fits in perfectly with the overall character of the car, because the ride is similarly refined, being absorbent yet appreciably firm when pushing on in the corners. The Volkswagen Golf also feels agile, and remains one of the most fun cars to drive in its class.

Volkswagen has also clearly paid a lot of attention to NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) control, because the insulation from road/wind/mechanical noise seems markedly improved compared with its already excellent predecessor.

Volkswagen Golf – Verdict

The Volkswagen Golf 2,0 TDI Highline is significantly more expensive than what is perceived to be its rivals. And yet, in the final analysis, it just about manages to justify the higher price, because it really comes across as a more refined, sophisticated product than the competitor products. If only Volkswagen could be a little more generous with the standard features, then there really would be no argument to be made here. It really is of a class above these days.

We like:

  • Perceived quality
  • Refinement
  • Very comfortable interior
  • Excellent fuel economy
  • Performance


We don’t like:

  • Sparse standard equipment
  • Pricey


Fast facts

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

Power: 103 kW @ 4 200 rpm

Torque: 320 Nm @ 1 750 rpm

Transmission: Six-speed manual

Wheels: 17-inch alloy

Top speed: 209 km/h

0-100 km/h: 9,3 seconds

Fuel economy:  4,9 litres/100 km

Source: www.um.co.za

Also consider:

  • Honda Civic 2,2i-CTDI: Cheaper, as powerful as the Volkswagen Golf, better equipped and comes with an excellent reputation for quality and reliability. It’s hard to fault the Honda, but the Civic’s way-out styling won’t appeal to everyone, and its ergonomics aren’t as good.
  • Ford Focus 2,0 TDCI SI: The Ford is certainly well priced and on paper the engine seems up to the job. Somehow, however, it doesn’t quite work. The cabin isn’t up to scratch and the drivetrain refinement is lacking. Not nearly as economical either. But it is A LOT cheaper.
  • Alfa Romeo 147 1,9 JTD MultiJet Distinctive: Looking for something a bit different? Alfa’s 147 may be nearing the end of its life cycle, but remains an interesting choice. The best part (besides the styling), is the gem of an engine. It delivers strong power and economy, as well as surprising refinement.

New Hyundai Sonata unveiled

(Seoul, Korea) Hyundai Motor Company’s all-new Sonata, being introduced today, is expected to shake up the world’s mid-size sedan market with its daring design. The new Hyundai Sonata adopts Hyundai’s new “fluidic sculpture” design language, boasts outstanding performance with the segment-leading safety features and fuel efficiency. Incorporating state-of-the-art technologies, the new Sonata will further elevate the Hyundai brand.

New Hyundai Sonata set for success

Hyundai began developing the new Sonata in 2005 under the codename YF (Note: The car may be launched under a different name in some regions). The project took 4 years and 450 billion won (US$ 372 million*) to go from concept to customer.

Although it is a completely new vehicle, Hyundai is retaining the Sonata name as the mid-size car has been Korea’s most popular sedan. Applying a new design aesthetic of “fluidic sculpture,” the new Hyundai Sonata pursues a younger and sensuous image in its interior and exterior profiles. Inspired by nature, the “fluidic sculpture” tries to reflect sophistication and dynamism in the shape of the vehicle and will serve as the core of Hyundai’s future design identity.

The outer design of the new Sonata exudes a voluminous look that creates character through the refined and harmonized lines. The interior has a dynamic look that matches the exterior while not compromising comfort or convenience. The new Hyundai Sonata is available in nine exterior colors, from Remington Red to Blue Black to Espresso, satisfying the diverse tastes of younger customers.

Source: Hyundai

New Jaguar XJ Sedan revealed

The all-new Jaguar XJ reflects a vision that defies preconceptions and transforms the idea of a luxury saloon. It is a blend of stunning design, intuitive technology and innovative thinking. A contemporary luxury car that is beautiful, exhilarating and sustainable.

New Jaguar XJ Sedan – Features

* 6-speed electronic automatic transmission with Jaguar Sequential ShiftTM

* JaguarDrive ControlTM – Winter Mode

* JaguarDrive ControlTM – Dynamic Mode

* JaguarDrive SelectorTM

* DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) with Trac DSC mode

* Electric Parking Brake (EPB) – drive-away release

* Adaptive Dynamics

* Cruise Control with Automatic Speed Limiter (ASL)

Soft Grain leather heated front and rear seats

Jaguarsense

Itech virtual intraments

* Full colour HD touch-screen

* Interactive controls

* Interactive voice

* Media hub for audio and video streaming

* Dual zone climate control

* Jaguar 600w premium sound system

* 14 Speakers

* Panoramic roof with electric blinds

* Headlamps – Automatic xenon with washers and front LED signature lights

Source: Jaguar

New Alfa Romeo MiTo launches in South Africa

Alfa’s sports star, the new Alfa Romeo MiTo, has arrived in South Africa.

New Alfa Romeo MiTo draws on Italian styling heritage

For nearly one century, Alfa Romeo has stood as an indisputable symbol of motoring design and Italian sporting style, as well as a towering example of engineering and mechanical excellence. The new Alfa Romeo MiTo is the first car to be built since the 8C Competizione – Alfa Romeo’s icon of style and technology, from which it borrows certain characteristic traits. The new Alfa Romeo MiTo represents the ultimate expression of Italian style, welcoming yet sporty, with high material quality and scrupulous attention to detail.

The greatest thought has also gone into defining the dimensions, which add up to a compact and dynamic shape that nicely fulfils the requirement for downsizing, one of the buzzwords of present-day motoring design. Downsizing actually means improving energy efficiency, reducing CO2 emissions and simplifying driving and parking around town. But this new approach to construction does not preclude sportiness. Quite the opposite: the new Alfa Romeo MiTo is the best demonstration that the two requirements can be reconciled.

Sleek Proportions

The car’s proportions also make a very clear statement that this is a true sports car – it measures 4.06 metres long, 1.44 metres high and 1,72 metres wide – without giving up anything in terms of driving comfort. Indeed the excellent interior space distribution makes for an outstanding amount of room for both driver and passengers.

Launched in a sexy and powerful 114Kw 1.4 turbo engine, Alfa Romeo MiTo 6-speed gearbox offers generosity with a lively temperament, developed of course by the world renowned Fiat Powertrain Technologies.

The new Alfa Romeo MiTo is a strong, compact car with dominion of the road and an emphatic personality of its own…but you’ll only truly understand its strength, power and style once you get inside.

Source: Alfa Romeo

Nissan Global Compact Car sketch revealed

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. today revealed the sketch of its global compact car. Planned to be manufactured in 5 countries, including Thailand, China and India, the Nissan global compact car model will be first launched in Thailand in March 2010 and will be available in more than 150 countries, including South Africa.

B-segment to light up with Nissan global compact car

“We aim to make an impact on the B-segment, the biggest market for passenger vehicles in South Africa” – says Mike Whitfield, Nissan South Africa, MD. This major segment caters for first time car buyers or as a secondary mode of household transport. “We are confident that the new Nissan will offer a stylish, yet value for money package,” concludes Whitfield. Timing for local introduction will be announced in due course.

Audi A3 2,0 TDI Ambition (2009) Driving Impression

If there’s a car out there that illustrates the power of premium brand appeal, then perhaps the Audi A3 is it. Here you have what is essentially a Volkswagen Golf, but one with only three doors, fairly sparse standard equipment, and a lofty price tag. And guess what? You want it. You crave it… like thousands of other people.

The appeal is easy to grasp. The four rings logo on the grille says you’re climbing the career ladder very successfully. As a consequence, you’re also more socially desirable. If cars are extensions of our own selves, then the Audi A3 is the equivalent of a professional make-over, a costly visit to the dentist, and a new wardrobe courtesy of a style consultant. We crave it, because we secretly hope its desirability will rub off on us…

More glitz & glam for Audi A3

The latest Audi A3 has benefitted from another round of cosmetic updates. Most of the panels that constitute the face of the car have been changed, and there are new rear lights, too, in addition to new colours and wheel designs. The refreshment has worked well, making the Audi A3 look even more expensive and stylish than before. As ever, Audi offers a wide range of optional extras to allow you to personalise your car, but be careful when ticking these option boxes, as the costs can quickly escalate. Then again, the Ambition model tested here does lack some items that should’ve been standard at this price level – including remote audio controls. Also optional are; cruise control, a sunroof and auto lights and wipers. But what you do get includes leather upholstery and climate control. At the price it’s a package that just about can be labelled as fair.

Changes to the interior are fairly hard to spot until pointed out. Mostly, Audi has attempted to break the monotony of the black cabin by adding some shiny metallic accents. These work well and, importantly, contribute to a feeling of overall solidity, because they feel like the real thing when touched. The rest of the cabin has remained mostly as before, which is no bad thing. The Audi A3 offers superb comfort levels up front with very supportive seats. The driver’s seat is height-adjustable, and the steering wheel offers, in typical Audi fashion, rake and reach adjustment. The driving position is superb. The seat goes down nice and low, which results in a sporty position behind the wheel, when required.

Of course, with only three doors, the Audi A3 looses some points for practicality. Space in the rear is not too claustrophobic (for a three-door), but access obviously requires some body flexing. The boot is surprisingly big, and contains a space-saver spare wheel under its floor.

Torque for the town

This model is powered by the Volkswagen group’s proven 2,0-litre turbodiesel engine that delivers 103 kW at 320 Nm torque. It sounds fairly gruff at idle, but smoothes out considerably when cruising and provides superb fuel economy. Audi claims a figure of 6,8 litres/100 km, but in reality you can beat that figure with some careful driving. With a sub-10-second 0-100 km/h sprint time, it’s also no slouch. It’s free-revving nature makes everyday driving a real pleasure, as does the slick six-speed manual transmission.

Underpinning the Audi A3 is, of course, the same structure that you’ll find in a Golf. There’s multi-link rear suspension and a set-up that has been tuned to find a good balance between ride comfort and entertaining dynamics. For the most part, the Audi A3 succeeds, but the emphasis is most definitely on delivering comfort over sharp dynamics. This is not a criticism. For its intended purpose, ride comfort is far more important. For enthusiastic drivers, however, there is probably one other point of concern, though the overwhelming majority of Audi A3 TDI buyers won’t worry – there’s little feedback, and a somewhat vague, overly light feel to the steering.  But that’s about it. The Audi A3 is a refined, quiet, solid and downright enjoyable car to drive.

Audi A3 – Verdict

To be brutally honest, even if the Audi A3 was a poor product, it would still sell rather well, such is the desirability of the Audi badge at present. But remove badge appeal from the equation for a moment and you still have a very solid proposition. Yes, three doors limit its ultimate practicality, but if that’s what you’re really after, get an Audi A3 Sportback for not much more. The Audi A3 is a stylish, solid and economical premium product that has real substance to its style.

We like:

  • Sophisticated, upmarket looks
  • Cabin quality
  • Powerful engine
  • Fuel economy
  • Premium badge


We don’t like:

  • Some optional features should be standard
  • Three doors limit practicality
  • Dull steering


Fast facts

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

Power: 103 kW @ 4 000 rpm

Torque: 320 N.m @ 1 750 rpm

Transmission: Six-speed manual

Wheels: 17-inch alloy

Top speed: 205 km/h

0-100 km/h: 9,5 seconds

Fuel economy:  6,8 litres/100 km

Source: www.um.co.za

Also consider:

  • Volkswagen Golf (6) 2,0 TDI Highline: An enemy from within the family, and a strong one, too. Yes, the Golf doesn’t have the Audi’s brand appeal and is not offered as a sporty three-door. But it has the same engine and is more practical.
  • Honda Civic 2,2i-CDTI VXi: Offers sci-fi looks inside and out, but is more practical than its bizarre design would seem to suggest. The engine is superbly refined, and offers even more torque than the Audi A3. An acquired taste.
  • Alfa Romeo 147 1,9 JTD MultiJet Distinctive 5-dr: This is an underrated car, but even so it struggles to compete at this level. Even as a five-door it can’t match the boot space of the Audi A3. It’s a fun drive, but probably less fun to own long-term – build quality gripes remain.

Nissan NP200 1,6 16-valve SE (2009) Driving Impression

With their affordable price tags and ever-increasing load-carrying abilities, the so-called half-tonne segment remains an important one in South Africa. Unfortunately for most local car firms (including Toyota) the fact that it really is only South Africa and one or two others that show interest in this type of vehicle means that the development of such a product is not a high priority for their parent companies. As such, any new model that comes along is met with significant interest. The Nissan NP200, of course, carries the weight of significant expectation on its shoulders, as it replaces the “champion of Africa”, the venerable but now archaic B140.

Romanian underpinnings for Nissan NP200

If you thought the NP200’s front-end bears a striking resemblance to the cut-price Renault Logan sedan, you’d be right. You see, as part of the global Renault/Nissan alliance (which also includes Dacia), both these products started life in Romania as part of the same project. But don’t worry, Renault has shaken that firm into shape, and there are no traces of the truly awful build quality and design that South Africans experienced (briefly) in the ‘90s.

As such, the Nissan NP200 is a neat product. In upmarket SE trim it looks decidedly sporty, with a chrome surround to its grille, macho black wheelarch extensions and striking 15-inch alloy wheels. It clearly is pitched not so much as a workhorse vehicle in this guise, but at the leisure market. Still, the loadbay can accommodate 800 kg-worth of goods, features standard rubberizing and numerous tie-down points. A tonneau cover is also fitted as standard. That impressive 800 kg payload figure is, of course, class-leading, and is now closer to a tonne, than a half-tonne, and surely a big part of the reason for this vehicle’s instant popularity.

Car-like interior

To save costs, the Nissan NP200 uses exactly the same facia as the Renault Logan. While this means the interior is “car-like” in the truest meaning of the term, there are a few issues. Fit is good, but the plastics used are definitely of the hard and shiny variety, so care will have to be taken to avoid it looking all scratched and scuffed within weeks of delivery. The same goes for that shiny metallic centre piece. As is the case with the Logan, the switches for the electric windows are not placed on the doors, but on the centre console, which takes some getting used to.

The driving position is similarly awkward at first. The seat features height-adjustment, but the steering wheel doesn’t, and somehow it takes a while to find a comfortable position. This has much to do, strangely, with the view out of the vehicle. You see, with the high sides of the loadbox as well as a thick B-pillar to contend with, visibility out of the Nissan NP200 is not that great.

There’s good space though, with good shoulder- and headroom on offer – certainly an ex-B140 owner will feel spoilt. There’s even enough space behind the seats for the stowage of valuables.

Pulling power

Unlike the base-model Nissan NP200, this SE version features a 16-valve 1,6-litre engine that develops 77 kW and 148 Nm of torque – class-leading figures both. It needs it, because at nearly 1,3 tonnes, the NP200 is no lightweight. Consequently, performance is not terribly athletic. There’s good low-down torque, so the initial pull-away promises much, but then it appears to run out of steam somewhat at higher speeds, where it also becomes rather noisy. The gearbox, a five-speed manual, provides pleasant-enough shifts.

Nissan claims a consumption figure of 8,1 litres/100 km which is among the best in this class. The figure rises quite steeply once a load is added or you’re in a hurry. Generally you can expect closer to 9 litres/100 km.

Firm but stable

Of course, to make it possible to carry such a heavy load, the NP200’s suspension has been set quite firmly. The low-speed ride, especially, can be quite bouncy but improves dramatically with a load. The steering (hydraulically assisted) is surprisingly heavy when there’s no load, but lightens up with some weight on the rear. Ground clearance is very good, with Nissan claiming a figure of 177 mm.

Nissan NP200 – Verdict

The Nissan NP200 is a very strong new entrant in this segment, and will give the Corsa Utility a big fright. It beats it in terms of being a worker (load carrying and design of the loadbay), and though the interior may not have the Opel’s polish and more “upmarket” look, it is spacious and practical. It is also better equipped – featuring dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, a radio/CD player and electric windows. Perhaps the engine doesn’t quite live up to expectations, but knowing Nissan, it should last just about forever. There’s precious little to fault here.

We like:

  • 800 kg payload
  • Spacious cabin
  • Standard safety features
  • Standard rubberizing


We don’t like:

  • Somewhat lethargic, given the engine power
  • Iffy facia plastics
  • Rear visibility


Fast facts

Engine: 1,6-litre, four-cylinder, petrol

Power: 77 kW @ 5 750 rpm

Torque: 148 N.m @ 3 750 rpm

Transmission: 5-speed manual

Wheels: 15-inch alloy

Top speed: n/a km/h

0-100 km/h:        n/a seconds

Fuel economy: 8,1 litres/100 km

Source: www.um.co.za

Also consider:

  • Opel Corsa Utility 1,4i Sport: Massively successful due to its significant leisure/workhorse appeal. Lacks the Nissan’s more modern features (especially in terms of safety) and is also down on power and load-carrying ability. More impressive in the cabin, though.
  • Ford Bantam 1,6i XLE: A faithful oldie, but can’t match its newer rivals in terms of cabin comfort and loadability. The engine is a rorty 1,6-litre which, combined with the Bantam’s light weight, makes this quite a lively (if thirsty) performer.
  • Fiat Strada 1,6 ELX: Hasn’t really taken off in South Africa, and there’s no obvious reason except for Fiat’s poor reputation at present. The Strada is neat-looking, boasts a good balance of power and economy, has a well-equipped cabin, is affordable and can carry a bit more than the Ford and Opel. Worth a look.

Suzuki Jimny 1.3i 4×4 (2009) Driving Impression

Character, or an X-factor, is exceptionally hard to define. It can’t be forced or designed on purpose – just ask Volkswagen about its Millennium Beetle, or even Alfa Romeo about its Brera. In the automotive world, “character” is also increasingly a scarce commodity, the result of cars being conceptualised and designed by committees, leaving little space for flair and quirkiness. It is therefore not surprising that, almost without fail, current cars that can be said to possess true individualism can trace their ancestry back a few decades. There’s the Porsche 911, of course. The Land Rover Defender. And, the subject of this review, the Suzuki Jimny (known previously as the SJ410 or SJ413/Samurai).

Suzuki Jimny is modern, yet not…

With its big wheels, chunky wheelarches and boxy silhouette, the word “cute” is not hard to apply to the Suzuki Jimny. But perhaps a better description would be “cheeky”. There’s considerable attitude in its stance (190 mm high ground clearance) but much of its appeal has to do with its diminutive size. Suzuki has not messed much with the original SJ shape and yet you can’t say the Jimny looks dated. There’s neat colour-coding all-round, integrated fog lamps, a distinctive five-slot grille design and, of course, an exposed spare wheel on the sideways-opening tailgate.

For drivers who have previously owned an SJ or Samurai, the interior will come as quite a surprise. Suzuki has done here pretty much what Volkswagen South Africa had managed with the CitiGolf. Although the size of the cabin remains much the same as before, the look and feel of the interior is impressively modern. There’s a neat facia with an integrated audio system and rotary dials for the ventilation system where you may have expected an aftermarket radio and old sliding controls. Build quality is top notch even though the plastics are hard and shiny. Also noticeable is the absence of exposed metal in the cabin, usually a give-away trait of older designs.

Given the Suzuki Jimny dimensions, one can’t really expect a cabin with stretch-out space, and for the most part this is true. You’re unlikely to feel uncomfortable when seated in front, even though the narrowness of the cabin is what is most apparent – the door and side window are right next to your shoulder. Still, Suzuki has done well with the seating position, especially considering the absence of height-adjustment on the driver’s seat and steering wheel. Leg- and headroom are pretty good up front.

The 50/50-split rear bench is really only suitable for adults on shorter trips, and perhaps for small children (surprisingly, there are Isofix child seat anchorages). Given the particular appeal of the Suzuki Jimny and its likely target market, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Jimnys driving around with their rear seats folded down permanently, especially as the boot is very small.

Even in terms of its standard specification the Jimny is a surprisingly up to date offering. Besides the sound system and air-conditioning, there are also two front airbags, ABS, central locking and electric windows.

Real off-road ability

Unlike most modern kerb-hoppers, the Suzuki Jimny backs up its terrain-munching styling with proper ability. The high ground clearance and relatively short wheelbase give it an impressive break-over angle. The approach and departure angles are also superb, due to short overhangs. The tyres are chunky 205/70s. But the real clue to its ability lies in the standard fitment of a low-range transfer case. Even with relatively meagre torque of 110 Nm, this feature makes the Jimny a confident performer off the beaten track, over obstacles that some bigger vehicles would struggle to clear. The compact dimensions, tight turning circle and hydraulically assisted power steering make for easy manoeuvring.

On the road, of course, there are penalties to be paid for that off-road ability. The ride is firm and, due to the short wheelbase, it can get quite bouncy. Cornering fast is also not really a Suzuki Jimny favourite, as the high centre of gravity and narrow tracks conspire to make it feel quite top heavy. The little 1,3-litre engine delivers a willing 63 kW and is well matched to a slick five-speed manual ‘box with ideally spaced ratios for town driving. The downside is, however, that at 140 km/h it runs out of puff, and consequently overtaking at the national speed limit requires patience… and guts.

That said, driven within its limits the Suzuki Jimny is a pleasure, being responsive, manoeuvrable and also quite economical (expect around 7,5 litres/100 km).

Suzuki Jimny – Verdict

It’s very hard not to fall for the Suzuki Jimny’s charms. Its cheeky persona and proper off-road ability are often said to be its only factors of appeal, but that’s not exactly true. Suzuki has cleverly managed to keep an elderly automotive icon relevant by staying true to the spirit of the original, and modernising where needed. That makes it easy to forgive it a few foibles. Like the old SJ and Samurai, the Jimny’s enduring appeal is expected to keep it in high demand in the used car market as well.

We like:

  • Real off-road ability
  • Character
  • Build quality
  • Fuel economy
  • Standard equipment

We don’t like:

  • Small boot
  • Bouncy ride


Fast facts

Engine: 1,3-litre, four-cylinder, petrol

Power: 63 kW @ 6 000 rpm

Torque: 110 Nm @ 4 100 rpm

Transmission: Five-speed manual + low range

Wheels: 15-inch alloy

Top speed: 140 km/h

0-100 km/h: 14,1 seconds

Fuel economy:  7,2 litres/100 km

Source: www.um.co.za

Also consider:

  • Daihatsu Terios SWB 4×4: Plenty of Toyota genes in this popular offering. Four doors and a bigger body boost interior comfort and practicality, but it lacks both the Suzuki’s disarming character and, since it doesn’t have low-range, also its off-road ability.
  • Fiat Panda Climbing: If you’re not a serious off-roader and are only looking for something cute that also offers some kerb-hopping appeal, then this Panda may be worth a look. It has four-wheel dive (no low-range), decent ground clearance and looks the part. But it lacks power, and is painfully slow.
  • Subaru Impreza 2,0R: Strictly speaking not a direct rival, but due to its abysmal resale value, you may be able to pick one up for similar money to the Suzuki Jimny. More power than the Suzuki, and more occupant space, too, but the boot is small, the fuel consumption heavy and the looks… well, let’s just say it lacks the Jimny’s cuddly factor.

 

Aston Martin Rapide revealed

Aston Martin has unveiled today one of the most eagerly awaited cars of 2009 at the 63rd Frankfurt Motorshow. The elegant Aston Martin Rapide, functional yet luxurious, provides space for up to four adults combined with an engaging driving experience synonymous with all Aston Martin’s.

Aston Martin Rapide offers an exciting driving experience

As the marque’s first production four-door sports car, the Aston Martin Rapide encapsulates core values of Power, Beauty and Soul; four ‘swan wing’ doors provide access to cosseting sports seats both front and rear bestowing occupants with ample accommodation. A 301 litre luggage compartment affords generous space for belongings for all four passengers whether they be sports bags or indeed, sets of skis, creating an Aston Martin which can be enjoyed on any occasion, anytime, anywhere.

Interior Features

Rapide’s rear environment has been intelligently packaged to create a space where passengers feel a part of the driving experience with clear views to the front and sides. Comfort and support is supplied in the form of two hand trimmed individual seats and a personal face-level heating and air conditioning system. Aiding the practicalities of everyday use, the luggage compartment features a movable bulkhead to permit access from the rear cabin while the rear seats fold flat at the touch of a button to create a flat loading space increasing the luggage compartment from 301 litres to 750 litres.

Engine Performance

At the heart of every Aston Martin lies an evocative engine providing effortless power and torque: The aston Martin Rapide features a hand-built 6.0-litre V12 engine producing 470 bhp (477 PS / 350 kW) with peak power being delivered at 6000 rpm and 600 Nm (443 lbft) peak torque at 5000 rpm. A specifically tuned six-speed Touchtronic 2 automatic transmission features as standard, allowing the driver to change gear automatically or manually via the steering column-mounted magnesium paddles.

First deliveries of the Aston Martin Rapide will commence early in 2010 and will be available globally through Aston Martin’s 125 strong dealership network. Pricing will be confirmed at the Frankfurt Show.

Source: Aston Martin