Is it the end of the road for Toyota petrol V8 engine?
A report out of Japan has suggested that Japanese brand Toyota has put a stop to the development of its V8 engines.
The report from Japanese magazine Mag-X has said the Japanese brand is one of many that has suffered under the coronavirus pandemic and will be focusing more on downsized V6 turbochargd motors as well as electrification.
The bad news means that Lexus plans for the ultimate twin-turbocharged V8 in the LC has probably been shelved. Pity, as it was rumoured to pack around 450 kW and make its debut at the now-cancelled 24 Hours of Nurburgring, before making its way into some roadcars. Toyota was also considering using this motor for some North American market trucks.
Isuzu will produce the next-generation D-Max in Port Elizabeth from next year and plans to launch the model locally during the 2nd half of 2021. However, the new D-Max, which is also produced in Thailand, has already been released in other markets, which gives us a preview of what the final product will look like.
The Japanese brand recently introduced X-Rider derivatives of the current D-Max in the local market as part of the model’s runout phase. However, in the near future, Isuzu will tool up its Eastern Cape plant as part a R1.2-billion investment programme to produce the next-generation D-Max in Mzansi; it’s expected to generate additional total local content value of R2.8 billion throughout its lifecycle.
The images that appear in this article depict D-Max's specified for the Australian market, so although the models that will be produced in South Africa will look largely the same as what you see here; their specification will be different – although, to be fair, many of the new model’s improvements will be carried over to SA.
The new D-Max, which underpins the recently-unveiled Mazda BT-50, is wider than its predecessor, with a longer wheelbase and a larger, deeper load tray. Not only is it much more boldly-styled than the current bakkie, it's also sleeker and more aerodynamically efficient. In fact, Isuzu says it has invested 4 million km's of testing and 6 years of development into the model and you can rest assured that a local development programme is, if not already underway, in the offing!
What will power the new D-Max?
With more power and torque and higher levels of refinement, the new D-Max should find favour with many local buyers.
In terms of its 3.0-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine, the updated 4JJ3-TCX powerplant is said to feature updated internals including an upgraded direct-injection system and electronically controlled variable geometry turbocharger. As a result, it produces 140 kW and 450 Nm from 1 600 to 2 600 rpm in overseas markets and is said to be notably more refined (quieter, with less NVH) than the current 3.0-litre engine.
The turbodiesel will be offered in conjunction with a faster-shifting 6-speed automatic or 6-speed manual transmission.
Other notable numbers include a ground clearance of 240 mm, wading depth of 800 mm and a towing capacity of 3 500 kg (braked-trailer, aided by Trailer Sway Control). The 4×4 derivatives benefit from a solid and lighter one-piece aluminium driveshaft, an electro-magnetic diff-lock and improved approach, departure and break-over angles.
What about the interior?
The interior of the new D-Max makes a huge leap forward in terms of design, technology and general comfort features.
Whereas the current D-Max’s interior design well-and-truly shows its age, the new model’s smartly-finished cabin is generously equipped with comfort, convenience and connectivity features. Seeing that the specification of South African-spec D-Max derivatives are not yet finalised, take a look at the highlights…
The instrument cluster, for example, features a 4.2-inch multi-information display with a digital speedometer, which relays, inter alia, Satnav directions on high-end derivatives. A 7- and 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system are available, which are Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatible with voice activation.
Top-of-the-range D-Max derivatives are likely to feature leather-trimmed interiors adorned with metal-look and piano black accents, an 8-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat (with lumbar support), dual-zone climate control with additional vents for rear occupants and an 8-speaker surround audio system.
Nice-to-have features include a comfort turn indicator function, automatically activated lights and -wipers, the latter with automatic high-beam control. Isuzu has also availed a new Smart Key that provides, remote engine start, keyless entry and push-button start, welcome light and walk-away door locking. Remote engine start allows the driver to remotely start the D-Max, so that the dual-zone air conditioning system can cool/warm the cabin before a journey.
In terms of the safety specification, the new D-Max offers a lot more features than its predecessor – which is to be expected, given how long the current range has been in production! Over and above ABS, EBD with brake assist, traction and stability control, hill-start assist, surround parking sensors and a reverse-view camera with integrated parking lines. The Isuzu can have up to 8-airbags including a knee- and centre airbag.
A standout feature of the Australian-spec model is the Intelligent Driver Assistance System, which utilises a Hitachi 3D stereo camera to offer the following safety systems: autonomous emergency braking with turn assist, adaptive cruise control, traffic-sign recognition, blind-spot monitoring, rear-cross traffic alert and lane-keeping assist.
We'll bring you updates on the local specification of the next-generation D-Max as soon as we have more information. Stay tuned!
The Jeep Gladiator is without doubt the most exciting thing to come out of Chrysler’s off-road division, for years. This concept takes things further.
Built on the proven Wrangler ladder-frame platform, with all the special off-road axle type and mechanical traction aids you can imagine, Gladiator is a bakkie without compare.
The Land Cruiser 79 is simply too old to compete with Gladiator, and most global bakkie enthusiast cannot wait for a right-hand drive version of the Jeep double-cab.
To further tease the Gladiator’s suitability for true off-road adventuring, Jeep has now produced a very convincing Farout concept vehicle. And the naming convention is meant to be interpreted quite literally.
Designed as what South Africans would class as an ‘overlander’, the Farout adds a host of kit to enable come comfort and convenience, if you are venturing into the wilderness, unsupported.
The canopy has a rooftop tent and awning, to create adequate accommodation options – wherever you might end up having to overnight.
Powering the Farout is Jeep’s latest 3-litre V6 turbodiesel, boosting 194 kW and 600 Nm.
Ensuring that you get where you intended to go, the Gladiator Farout has a 50mm lift kit and Fox performance suspension at each wheel corner, improving rough terrain ride quality.
Boosting traction are huge 37-inch mud-terrain tyres, whilst there is also a 5.4t rated winch, to haul you out of trouble – or assist others, who might need a recovery.
Jeep has also added its Rubicon specification bumpers to the Gladiator Farout, which make the bakkie more survivable if it does have a light terrain impact whilst off-roading. The front bumper also mounts two high-intensity spotlights, to illuminate unmarked trails you might to navigate – in the dead of a moonless night. And if you are wondering, that off-grey paint finish is called ‘Earl’.
A more exclusive Ford Ranger Wildtrak has been announced.
Ford has revealed yet another special edition Ranger. The "Thunder" trim debuted on the T6 bakkie in European recently and it's now available for the South African market.
Based on the existing Wildtrak, this new Thunder package features updated styling details, but no significant mechanical changes. The Ranger Thunder is finished in a Sea Grey colour and uses red styling details to mark its individuality. There's also Frozen White, Absolute Black and Moondust Silver available. Most notable is the three-dimensional front grille and the Thunder badging.
That reshaped grille and non-functional sportsbar in the back, both feature red detailing, whilst customers have a choice of loadbox accessories, including a roller cover or large utility stowage box. Front and rear lights receive darkened bezels and a ‘Thunder’ graphic, in red, takes pride of place on the lower portion of both front doors.
Darkened 18-inch alloy wheels roll in the Thunder’s wheel arches and there are skid plates, to protect it in technical off-road terrain. Inside the Ranger Thunder, there is branded seat embroidery and red contrast stitching. An open door also reveals sill plates with red illumination and black floor mats. The Ford Ranger Thunder also benefits from numerous practical additions in the load compartment too like a black roller shutter.
The Ranger Thunder is powered by either Ford’s 2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel engine, which delivers 157 kW and 500 Nm via a 10-speed automatic transmission, or the older 3.2 5-cylinder TDI motor. This special edition double-cab could be a sign of things to come as Ford tries to extend the T6 bakkie's life before the 2022 all-new Ranger takes its place.
Ford Ranger Thunder Price in South Africa (August 2020)
The new Ford Ranger Thunder comes with a 6-year/90 000 km service plan with intervals every 15 000 km. It is also offered with a 4-year/120 000 km warranty.
Tuning firm Posaidon has worked some magic into the Mercedes-Benz G-Class and this surely has to be the world's fastest G?
Over the years, many tuning companies have worked on the legendary Mercedes-Benz G-Class. Brabus comes to mind, but Posaidon has taken the G63 AMG to another level entirely.
The tuning firm has given the Mercedes-AMG G63 so much additional power, it's said to hit 100 kph in just 3.6 seconds. This is incredible when you consider just how heavy the G63 is. At 2.5 tons it's going to take a monster of an engine to get it moving that quickly and Posaidon's work is extensive.
The 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 in standard guise pumps out 430 kW and 850 Nm, but Posaidon has bolted on much bigger turbochargers, a custom exhaust, tweaked the heads, intake and added a water/methanol injection kit. Now it produces 691 kW and 1 278 Nm! To keep all that power in check, Posaidon also added some uprated carbon-ceramic brakes and an electronic limited top speed of 280 kph.
It's a very impressive package and the performance puts it right up there amongst some of the fastest AMG models.
A German publication has taken the new BMW M2 CS for a lap around the famous Green Hell and posts a respectable time.
We at Cars.co.za are big fans of the baby M2 and you can imagine that we're eagerly awaiting the hardcore M2 CS's arrival in South Africa towards the end of November 2020. We know already that it's going to be one agile sports coupe and ready to take on any twisting stretch of road.
The engine is the long-serving S55 unit used by standard versions of the old M3 and the M4, but with a newly designed exhaust system. The twin-turbo 3.0-litre inline-6 delivers 331 kW at 6 250 rpm and 550 Nm of torque between 2 350 rpm and 5 500 rpm – an improvement of 29 kW on the less heavily tuned version of the S55 used by the M2 Competition, although torque is the same.
Recently, German publication Sport Auto with its experienced driver Christian Gebhardt took the BMW M2 CS around the Nurburgring. It posted a respectable time of 7.42,99, putting it alongside Porsche 911 GT3 (997) and Porsche Cayman GT4 (981). Watch the run!
Hyundai has revealed a sportier N Line version of its Elantra sedan. Check it out below…?
Hyundai’s N division is working hard to bring new and exciting products to market. We recently reviewed the Hyundai i30 N which is a mightily impressive hot hatch (a facelifted version is on the way) and the Veloster N is already offered in other markets.A full-blown i20 N is expected too as well as a Kona N. Even the i10 will be getting some N-love.
Hyundai’s new Elantra was launched earlier this year and now the Elantra N Line has been revealed.
Featurung the brand's new 'Sensuous Sportiness' design language, the Elantra N Line is distinguished from its standard Elantra sibling with a more aggressively-styled cascading grille which is complemented with a different bumper housing bladed air intakes that add to the overall sportiness of the Elantra N Line. Sporty side skirts give add a purposeful touch to the side view and the Elantra N Line rides on distinct 18-inch alloy wheels with a two-tone finish. It also sits lower than a standard Elantra and is equipped with a stiffer and sportier suspension.
Hyundai's new 'Sensuous Sportiness' design language forms the basis for the Elantra N Line.
At the rear, the dual exhausts further hint at its performance bent and are neatly set in a faux diffuser. You will also notice a subtle spoiler on the boot lid which further adds to the look.
Powering the Elantra N Line is a 1.6-litre turbopetrol engine that offers 150 kW and 265 Nm and is coupled with either a 6-speed manual or a dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Now that Elantra N-Line has been revealed, there’s a good chance that we will see a fully-fledged Elantra N within the next year or two.
As more buyers consider crossovers and SUVs, sedan offerings such as the Elantra have generally sold poorly and it’s no surprise then that Hyundai no longer offers the Elantra on local soil. With that said, don’t expect to see the Elantra N Line in South Africa.
The coming W223 S-Class is one of the most keenly anticipated new Mercedes-Benz products in a very long time.
For decades, the S-Class has been a veritable portal into the future of Mercedes-Benz’s broader passenger vehicle technology. The German luxury car brand has always shown its best and most wonderous technology on S-Class, before allowing some features to trickle down to lesser model ranges.
Mercedes-Benz has now revealed more of the new S-Class cabin architecture and digitisation, which appear to be deeply impressive. Balancing the need for stately elegance and luxury, with vanguard technology features, the W223 interior is less analogue without being gimmicky.
Ergonomic digitisation is a major theme inside the new Mercedes-Benz limousine, with 27 fewer conventional controls – replaces by digital haptics.
Volvo’s intuition with the vertically orientated touchscreen infotainment package has been proven correct, after the Swedish company defied convention with this design, debuting on the XC90. Mercedes-Benz has now followed, with the S-Class cabin dominated by its huge portrait view central infotainment touchscreen.
Mood and comfort systems are also improved, with adaptive ambient lighting being a significant contributor. The S-Class cabin illumination is now ten times brighter than before, making it clearly effective, even in bright daylight. Powering this new cabin lighting system are 250 fibre optic LEDs.
To best insulate occupants from the bothersome changes in environment quality outside the S-Class, there is a robust air-filtering system and ionizer, which ensures that cabin air quality is always better than outside.
Mercedes-Benz has also equipped the new S-Class with a sophisticated collection of presets, which blend the ambient lighting, overall swathe of screen displays and seat massage functions, to deliver an inspiring and depressurising outcome. Customers can choose from Refresh, Vitality, Warmth, Joy and Comfort settings, in this regard.
Some classic Mercedes-Benz design details remain unchanged, such as the iconic three-piece seat adjustment function, mounted on the door. In another amazing instance of harmonized ergonomics, seat adjustments influence mirror and steering wheel position too, to make it that much easier for a driver to get comfortable – quicker.
As with any S-Class, the new car is all about overengineered detailing. So yes: even the interior door panels are now heated.
Mercedes-Benz will reveal its new S-Class in full in September 2020.
It sounds far-fetched, but if this rumour is to be believed, BMW will be making an M3 Touring.
*Update: BMW M put out a teaser image of the new M3 Touring on its Instagram social media channel on the 12th August 2020. It's confirmed and the German performance arm hinted that it will hit showrooms in 2022*
Station wagons or as BMW calls them Touring, aren't the most popular of bodystyles any more. Despite the market leaning towards the SUV bodystyle, some brands continue to market the estate. Audi is one brand that does this and the RS4 and RS6 are only available in station wagon. Mercedes-AMG will sell you a C63 S station wagon, but the numbers are small in comparison to its coupe and sedan siblings. BMW? Well, there hasn't been much M-flavour for the station wagon fans. We can recall there was an M5 Touring, but other than that, not much.
BMWBlog reckons that despite there being zero official confirmation, a source has said the BMW M3 Touring has been given the go-ahead and will be hitting showroom floors after 2023. As it stands, right now the closest thing you can get to a BMW M3 Touring is the M340i xDrive Touring which you can see above. BMWBlog goes on to saying this new-generation of BMW M3 is 'the most wagon-ready M3 of all time, thanks to its optional all-wheel drive and more high-tech nature.'
As for the standard BMW M3 and M4, the official reveal is scheduled for September 2020. At the heart of each new model is the M division’s new S58 engine. The twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder successor to the longrunning S55 unit delivers 353 kW and 600 Nm in the standard M3 and M4 – 21 kW and 50 Nm more than the outputs of the outgoing models.
The rear-wheel-drive derivatives will come with the choice of either a standard 6-speed manual or optional 8-speed (torque-converter, not dual-clutch) automatic transmission in combination with BMW M’s electronically controlled M Sport locking rear differential. In the new M3 Competition and M4 Competition, the output is increased by a further 22 kW to a headlining 375 kW through what BMW M describes as “some specific software changes”, although torque remains at 600 Nm.
The Cars.co.za Podcast, Ep 1 – Gordon Murray’s hypercar, Ineos Grenadier, Best Buys under R80 000
Welcome to an all-new type of content from Cars.co.za, our first ever podcast! This however is a podcast with a difference, as you get to watch us in-studio as well as listen to our pearls of wisdom.
We've spent a little while building a custom podcast studio in our office and we'll be bringing you weekly episodes featuring journalists from Cars.co.za, motoring industry personalities, racing drivers, car builders and just about anyone we think you'd be interested in hearing from. In this episode, anchored by our Youtube guy Ciro De Siena, our in-house race ace Ashley Oldfield joins Ciro to chat about the incredible new Gordon Murray Automotive T.50 hypercar, as well as Gordon Murray's impressive collection of tropical shirts.
Ash and I provide some solid buying advice for those looking for a good used car under the R80 000 mark, and finally we review the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S 4-door, a car which confused us no end. You can watch our video review of that car here: https://youtu.be/nQSdqLyXOig
