All-Electric MINI Cooper SE (2020) Specs & Price

The new-vehicle market’s most affordable battery-electric passenger vehicle is the all-electric MINI, which was recently introduced in South Africa. It blends the Oxford-based brand’s go-kart-like driving experience and iconic design with emission-free motoring… 

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Based on the 3-door MINI, the new Cooper SE is equipped with an electric motor, powered by a 96-cell 32.6 kWh lithium-ion (gross capacity) battery pack mounted under the vehicle’s floor, which gives the newcomer a low centre of gravity. That, in combination with an electric motor that’s much lighter than a conventional engine, results in admirable balance and handling ability – in true MINI tradition, the Cooper SE makes cornering more fun.

Full torque, on demand

The all-electric MINI produces peak outputs of 135 kW and 270 Nm of torque, plus it can accelerate from 0 to 100 kph in 7.3 seconds, but that’s only half the story. Whereas a petrol engine has to build up revs to generate torque, the Cooper SE avails its driver the maximum torque immediately.

The moment you step on the accelerator pedal, the torque kicks in instantly to deliver stirring acceleration, which, of course, complements MINI’s renowned dynamism. If you point the all-electric MINI at a challenging set of corners, its wide track and tightly-tuned suspension is designed to deliver sure-footed road holding.

Glide through the city

But as much as the all-electric MINI remains true to its roots, it also offers an entirely new driving experience. It can travel up to (approximately) 217 km on a full charge in near silence, which takes the stress out of city driving.

In fact, you can drive the Cooper SE almost entirely with one pedal. The motor is directly coupled to the wheels, so when you lift your foot off the accelerator pedal, the process of harvesting kinetic energy via the braking system (to the benefit of the battery’s charge) lets the all-electric MINI slow down more quickly than a petrol-powered car would.

The Cooper SE is so quiet on the road that MINI had to install a noise-emitting acoustic protection for pedestrians to warn other road users of its presence. There’s never any need to rev the car’s motor and, apart from a faint hum when you accelerate, the only noise comes from outside. And only then at speed.

Electrifying styling

It needs to look the part – and it does! Blending aerodynamic lines with eye-catching signature details, the all-electric MINI is designed to complement vibrant city life.

The Cooper SE’s sleek front grille has been given a modern interpretation – it’s almost fully closed, which benefits aerodynamics considerably, and adorned with a striking yellow accent bar and MINI Electric badge. What’s more, the newcomer’s adaptive LED headlights incorporate the brand’s iconic light rings and automatically adjust brightness and beam pattern for specific conditions, such as oncoming drivers, all of which benefits safety.

Other model-specific detailing includes the 17-inch MINI Power Spoke 2-tone alloy wheels. Exhibiting a unique style, the distinctive, asymmetric trim is almost entirely closed in design – further enhancing the Cooper SE’s aerodynamic properties. Meanwhile, the striking Energetic Yellow side-mirror caps give the newcomer a distinctive road presence.

Future-forward cabin

The Cooper SE’s premium cockpit makes driving as convenient as it is electrifying. The 5.5-inch digital instrument cluster in black panel design, for example, was made specifically for this derivative. At its centre, vehicle speed is shown in figures with a scale band that lights up in colours that match the drive mode: red (Sport), white (MID), green (Green/Green+).

This is complemented by a 6.5-inch MINI Connected Navigation system with touchscreen that sits in the centre of the fascia (an 8.8-inch MINI Connected Navigation Plus system is optionally available). Whichever infotainment system you choose, it’s packed with innovative MINI Connected apps and services specifically orientated to electro-mobility to keep you in control – not least of the music you’re playing on the standard Harman Kardon hi-fi system!

MINI eDrive services

MINI eDrive Services were specifically developed for the Cooper SE to make electro-mobility easy and convenient. For example, it provides details such as available range, charging status and the closest charging station. What’s more, it tells the driver how to maximise the range by considering their driving habits to establish the most efficient route to a specific destination.

No matter where you are, you can have a seamless connection to the all-electric MINI via the MINI Connected app. Features such as interior pre-conditioning and the door lock/unlock function can be remotely activated; from a smartphone, a driver can check battery charge status and range, plus control the charging process when the Mini is connected to a power outlet.

The app provides traffic reports, weather forecasts, charging station locations and general points of interest. Ineed, you can plan trips on your phone and then send destinations to the Cooper SE’s navigation system.

This video demonstrates how you can send navigation destinations through the MINI? App:

 

Multiple ways to recharge

The quickest way to recharge the Cooper SE is by plugging it in at a public charging station (with a Mode 3 cable), where its battery can be replenished to 80% capacity in 35 minutes through fast-direct charging at up to 50 kW.

However, you don’t need a complex installation or unit to charge at home. All you have to do is plug it into any conventional household power socket… Surveys show that an average commuter will use less than 20% of the all-electric MINI’s battery charge per day. Even when charging the Cooper SE at a normal domestic electric socket (suing the charging cable and adapter, which is supplied as standard), 20% is charged in approximately 3 hours.  

In other words, you can plug an all-electric MINI into a domestic household socket overnight and it will have recharged completely in about 15 hours.

Wall of power

Meanwhile, Cooper SE owners have the option of installing a MINI Wallbox to optimise the home-charging experience. A dedicated, 3-phase 11 kW wallbox connection should give users a much faster charging time (by up to 3 times), which means the car could be 100% recharged in about 3.5 hours.

The installation of a wallbox requires the expert assistance of an approved electrician. If you are interested in installing a MINI Wallbox, your nearest MINI new-vehicle dealership will help you to locate a qualified installer.

Uncompromised packaging

By virtue of the all-electric MINI’s battery pack being located deep in the vehicle’s floor, the car’s luggage space is unchanged. Load space is claimed at 211 litres, which expands to 731 litres with the rear seats folded down.

Furthermore, like most of its internal-combustion MINI stablemates, the new Cooper SE comes standard with a Motorplan maintenance plan valid for 5 years/100 000 km. This covers all service, maintenance and repairs resulting from normal wear and tear, excluding tyres and fuel.

MINI Cooper SE – prices in South Africa (Aug 2020)

Cooper SE Hatch 3-door Trim S   R642 000
Cooper SE Hatch 3-door Trim L   R722 000

Learn more about the all-electric MINI Cooper SE

Begin your MINI-purchasing experience online with MINI Anywhere

Bentley unleashes revised Bentayga Speed

The 6.0-litre twin-turbo W12 in the Bentayga Speed is said to propel “the fastest SUV in the world” from 0 to 100 kph in 3.9 sec and a heady top speed of 306 kph. And, thanks to a recent facelift, the most performance-oriented Bentaya’s onboard tech is also much-improved.

Other premium manufacturers, such as Mercedes-AMG and BMW, might be phasing out their 12-cylinder motors, but the revised Bentayga Speed retains its muscular W12, which helped Bentley claim the production-SUV record at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in 2018. In the performance first-class SUV market, you downsize at your peril.


Given the recent launch of the Aston Martin DBX and the expected arrival of the Ferrari Purosangue, Bentley has raised its game.

The Bentayga Speed features many of the recently refreshed range’s high-end features as standard (such as the Mulliner Driving Specification) and is, as ever, hand-built in Crewe. The assembly of the W12, which produces 474 kW and 900 Nm (from 1 500 to 5 000 rpm) takes Bentley’s engine builders approximately 10% of the total hours required to build the entire SUV.

As impressive as the aforementioned claimed performance figures are, the Bentayga Speed is also claimed to have an average fuel consumption of… 14.3 L/100 km, which is admirable for a ballistic 2.5-tonne SUV with the equivalent of a reactor under its bonnet (although that is figure is based on the flattering NEDC combined-cycle test, not the more contemporary WLTP standard).


The Bentley Speed is not all just about brute force, it features cylinder-deactivation and "Sail" technology to improve efficiency.

To optimise fuel efficiency, the W12’s control unit deactivates a complete bank of 6 cylinders as required. According to Bentley, switching between the A and B bank (using information from the inlet and exhaust sensors) minimises cylinder and catalytic convertor cooldown and avoids spikes in exhaust emissions, which aids fuel economy under part-throttle cruising conditions.  

In the Bentayga Speed’s 5th to 8th gears (at cruising speeds, for example), when the driver releases the throttle, the Bentley’s management system will open the torque converter, reduce the engine to tick over and simply allow the car to roll or “sail”. When the throttle is reapplied, or the car starts going downhill and detects an increase in speed, the transmission re-engages.


Equipped with Bentley Dynamic Ride – a 48V electric active roll control technology – the Bentaga Speed is refined, but surefooted. 

The derivative offers its drivers a choice of 4 Drive Dynamics modes: Comfort, Bentley – the balanced recommendation of the firm’s chassis team in Crewe, Custom and Sport. Uniquely in the Speed, the Sport mode has been recalibrated to enhance response from the W12 and its 8-speed automatic transmission, together with the air suspension system and Bentley Dynamic Ride – the world’s first electric active roll control technology, which utilises a 48V system.

Dynamic Ride instantly counteracts lateral rolling forces when cornering and ensures maximum tyre contact to deliver class-leading cabin stability, ride comfort and handling. Recalibration of the Torque Vectoring by Brake system – whereby the car lightly brakes the inside rear wheel to sharpen the front axle turn-in – has made Bentayga Speed even more responsive to drive.

Dark-tinted exterior details

To distinguish the Bentayga Speed from its more prudently-equipped siblings, the performance-oriented derivative features dark-tint head- and tail-lights, body-coloured side skirts, bespoke bumpers and an elongated tailgate spoiler. Dark-tint radiator and bumper grilles, a unique 22-inch alloy wheels available in 2 finishes (painted and dark tint), Speed signature badging and a pair of oval exhaust finishers (unique to W12 versions) add to the derivative’s sporty appearance.


The Bentayga Speed comes standard with 22-inch alloy wheels, which are exclusive to the performance-oriented derivative.  

Inside, the newcomer’s cabin features the unique Speed colour-split combination trim, which is achieved through the use of dark colours enhanced by primary hide accents running throughout the seats and interior trim. Elegantly crafted “swooshes” of contrast leather feature around the doors, along the edges of the seat cushions and backrest bolsters, and on the lower console.

The Speed colour-split also sees applications of Alcantara on the seat cushions and backrest centre panels, transmission lever, steering wheel, lower-knee and upper-pillar trim areas and headliner. Meanwhile, ‘Speed’ embroidery features on the backrest of the seats and, as a no-cost option, customers can choose to replace the ‘Speed’ stitching with that of the Bentley logo.


A digital instrument cluster and enlarged touchscreen infotainment thoroughly modernise the Bentaya's interior.

A new contrast stitching design in the diamond quilting of the Mulliner Driving Specification sees each of the stitch lines being split – one to match the leather, the other the contrast colour. Discreet metal Speed badging on the fascia and -illuminated treadplates complete the look.

As for the Bentayga Speed’s usually traditional user interface of analogue dials set in a wood-finished binnacle, well, the instrument cluster is now fully digital. Suffice to say the display brings a contemporary look to the cockpit and can be customised to the driver’s requirements (viewed in either Classic or Expanded format) and features real-time lighting effects with slick animations.


A pair of organ-stop ventilation knobs are a nod to classic Bentleys of the past; they are in stark contrast with the digital display.

What’s more, a bigger, high-resolution 10.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system now spans the width of the Bentley’s fascia. Content can be selected either via hard keys beneath the screen, or from the main menu, the layout of which is customisable to a user’s preference. The system now supports wireless Apple CarPlay and -Android Auto, as well as smartphone screen-mirroring.

The navigation system supports free-text, context-specific search entries (including an address or point of interest), offers a 3-dimensional building display on maps, plus avails more info in the driver’s head-up display, such as traffic information, street names and distance to destination.


The dual-tone Bentley Speed interior is shown here in optional 2-door rear seat configuration, replete with Alacantara inserts.

The latest release of My Bentley in-car and remote connected car services (accessible through an app) are now delivered through an embedded SIM, while real-time traffic information and over-the-air map updates will be available to all customers in Bentley connected-car markets.

Finally, for customers who wish to further enhance the look of the Bentayga Speed, Bentley offers the option of the Black Specification pack, which replaces all exterior chrome work, bright detailing and some elements of the body with gloss black or carbon-fibre addenda.


With a claimed top speed of 306-kph, the Bentaya Speed is the "world's fastest SUV". How long will it hold on to that title? 

The front bumper splitter and the side sills, for example, are recreated by hand in carbon fibre, while the rear bumper diffuser becomes gloss black. All exterior bright work (including the roof rails) is resplendent in gloss black, as are the 22-inch Bentayga Speed wheels and exhaust finishers. Finally, the standard roof spoiler is replaced with a curved carbon-fibre version.

As the pre-facelift Bentayga Speed was offered in SA, we see no reason why it's successor won't be offered here too. We'll keep you posted on its expected arrival date.

Related content:

Bentley Reveals New-Look Bentayga SUV

Bentayga not enough to save Bentley jobs

Bentley Hybrid Bentayga Hits Europe

Bentley Bentayga Diesel (2018) Launch Review

Bentayga Speed is World's Fastest SUV

2021 Volkswagen Golf R Leaked Again

Thanks to a leak on Instagram, we get another look at the forthcoming Volkswagen Golf 8 R. 

Thanks to Instagram user Cochespias, we get a look at some of the details of this minimally disguised Volkswagen Golf 8 R. 

We can see this unit looks like it has the Akrapovic performance exhaust option, while the photograph of the wheel shows the high-performance brake with a calliper in the traditional R blue. 

Finally, there's a shot of the interior, showing Volkswagen Active Info digital cockpit as well as some very good looking steering-wheel shifters. We also noticed an R button, which we suspect puts the car into its most dynamic setting. 

The Golf R will combine the potency of a revised 245 kW, 2.0-litre turbopetrol engine and all-wheel-drive capability that should see the Golf R rocket from zero to 100 kph in about 4.5 seconds using a dual-clutch transmission. 

While the Volkswagen Golf 8 GTI is due to arrive in South Africa in early 2021, the Golf 8 R is expected locally some time after. A full reveal is expected before the end of 2020. As always, we will keep you up to date as soon as more information becomes available. 

Buy a Volkswagen Golf on Cars.co.za

Related Content

New Volkswagen Golf 8 R: What To Expect

Volkswagen Golf 8 GTI officially revealed

Audi’s shows new S3 Sportback and Sedan

Sharper suit for Audi's updated S3, available in both sedan and Sportback guise.

The signature Audi compact family performance car range gains all the styling and design drama you would expect from an S3.

In terms of size, the new S3 Sportback and sedan variants are longer than before, by 30- and 40mm – respectively. Balancing the increase in bumper-to-bumper length, is 30mm increase in width, rendering both the Sportback and sedan with some rather tidy proportions. These new S3s also ride 15mm lower than Audi’s conventional A3 models

Distinguishing these S3 models from other fourth-generation A3s are larger front air intakes, a diamond pattern grille and aluminium lookalike wing mirror end caps. At the rear Audi’s designers have integrated a functional diffuser, which is framed by twin exhaust ends at each corner.

Inside the S3 design theme is underscored by additional aluminium and carbon-fibre trim inserts. Practicality has always been an S3 attribute and the latest Sportback version carries 325-litre of luggage, whilst the sedan can accommodate 370-litres in its boot.

Powering the fourth-generation S3 range is Audi’s 2-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It produces 228 kW and 400 Nm and of course, those outputs are channelled to all four wheels, via a seven-speed S Tronic dual-clutch transmission.

With the benefit of Quattro traction and the S Tronic’s rapid electromechanical shifting interface, both the four- and five-door S3s can run a benchmark 0-100kph sprint in a claimed 4.8 seconds. Top speed buffers against the mandated 250kph limiter.

Deceleration should be marginally better than before, thanks to Audi’s electric brake booster function being onboard. S3 drivers who desire a superior balance between ride comfort and dynamic ability, can add adaptive damping.

Audi will also offer new S3 customers the option of two limited edition colours: Python Yellow or Tango Red. Standard wheels size to 18-inches, whilst there is also a 19-inch rim upgrade available.

Audi South Africa has confirmed the new Audi A3 range is due for local market introduction around the 2nd quarter of 2021, and we expect these performance versions to follow. 

Further Reading

Audi Reveals All-New A3 Sedan

Audi A3 Sportback: Old vs New

Audi A3 Sportback (2020) International Launch Review

2021 Audi A3: SA Details Emerge

Audi's '310-kW' RS3 almost ready

Hyundai Launches Ioniq EV Brand

Hyundai has launched a new sub-brand called Ioniq that will introduce at least 3 new electric vehicles over the next 4 years. 

The Ioniq name, which combines ‘ion’ and ‘unique’, was first seen on the 2016 Ioniq Autonomous Concept which was followed by the Ioniq range of hybrid and electric vehicles. 

Now, Ioniq has been announced as Hyundai’s new Electric Vehicle (EV) brand which will play an integral role in executing Hyundai’s Strategy 2025 which aims to sell 1 million battery electric vehicles by 2025 while claiming 10% share of the EV market. If realised, Hyundai will become the world’s third-largest Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) producer with 560 000 sales in addition to Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEV).  

“The IONIQ brand will change the paradigm of EV customer experience,” said Wonhong Cho, Executive Vice President and Global Chief Marketing Officer at Hyundai Motor Company. “With a new emphasis on connected living, we will offer electrified experiences integral to an eco-friendly lifestyle.”

3 New EV Models on the Way


Hyundai aims to become a global leader in the EV market by 2025 and its new Ioniq brand will lead the, erm, charge…

Hyundai will look to launch at least 3 new EV models in the next 4 years. The new EV models will be numerically named with even numbers used for sedan EV products and odd numbers used for SUV/crossover EV products. 

The first vehicle to come is the Ioniq 5 mid-size crossover which is due in 2021 and is based on the Hyundai’s 45 Concept shown last year. 

This will be followed by the Ioniq 6 sedan which is based on the Hyundai Prophecy Concept and is expected to make its debut in 2022. 

Lastly, the Ioniq 7 is an electric SUV expected in 2024. All Ioniq models will be built on a new platform called Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) which will provide for fast charging and notable driving range. The platform will also allow Hyundai to reimagine the interior as a “smart living space” with highly adjustable seats, wireless connectivity and unique features (such as a glove box designed as drawers) while also featuring an intuitive and ergonomically-sound cabin layout. 

To mark the launch of the new Ioniq brand, Hyundai lit up the famous London Eye as a ‘Q’ as part of Ioniq’s ‘I’m in Charge’ brand campaign. 

We will keep you up-to-date as more Ioniq product information is revealed. 

Buy a Hyundai on Cars.co.za

Related Content

Hyundai i20 (2021) International Launch Review

Hyundai showcases updated Santa Fe

Spy Shots: Updated Hyundai i30 N On The Way

Updated Jaguar F-Type (2020) Specs & Price

Jaguar’s F-Type sportscar has received a makeover and it's now available in local showrooms. Here's pricing and specs for the newcomer.

It’s hard not to like the F-Type and we have a soft spot for its sporty looks, sonorous engine vocals and impressive performance abilities. Jaguar has updated the F-Type with fresh styling and updated interior features while still offering a choice of powerful 4-, 6- and 8-cylinder engines to suit your performance needs. 

Key Features


The interior remains familiar but gains a new digital instrument cluster and a Touch Pro infotainment system. 

The F-Type’s aggressive, yet stylish design approach is communicated with an enlarged honeycomb grille which is flanked by slim pixel-LED headlights with J-shaped daytime running lights and complemented with a new clamshell bonnet. Bulging rear quarters hint at the F-Type’s intent while new rear taillights give the car a fresh look from behind. 

The major changes inside the F-Type include a new customisable 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster as well as a Touch Pro infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. Furthermore, there are also 2 enhanced Meridian sound systems to choose from! Lightweight slimline seats are offered in 2 variants namely Sport and Performance with heating and cooling functions being optional. F-Type R-Dynamic derivatives gain the Sport seats while R and First Edition get the Performance seats. 

Standard features for the R-Dynamic derivatives include 19-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, 6-way electric seats, keyless entry fixed panoramic sunroof and 6 airbags, to name a few. R derivatives gain pixel LED headlights, 12-way electric seats with memory function, Winsor leather upholstery, 20-inch alloy wheels and a R body kit.  

Engine power


The F-Type R tops the range and it offers even more brutal performance figures. 

All engines are mated with a re-calibrated 8-speed Quickshift automatic transmission and the F-Type range starts with the 4-cylinder, 2.0-litre turbocharged engine with 221 kW and 400 Nm of torque (P300). For more grunt, a supercharged 3.0-litre V6 with 280 kW and 460 (P380) Nm is also available. 

An uprated F-Type R (P575) tops the range and now boasts outputs of 423 kW and 700 Nm of torque (previously 405 kW/680Nm). Zero to 100 kph is blisteringly fast at 3.7 seconds with a top speed of 300 kph. 

The F-Type R’s chassis has been updated and features new adaptive dampers, springs, anti-roll bars and stiffer knuckles and ball joints to deliver improved agility. 

All F-Type derivatives feature active exhaust systems which can be fitted as standard or can be had as an option. 

A specially-appointed F-Type First Edition will also be offered for a period of 1 year from its introduction. The F-Type First Edition features the 3.0-litre V6 engine in conjunction with all-wheel-drive and rides on 20-inch diamond-turned alloys and is offered in 3 colours, Fuji White, Santorini Black or Eiger Grey. 

Jaguar F-Type Price in South Africa 

F-Type Coupe P300 R-Dynamic: R1 243 000
F-Type Coupe P380 R-Dynamic RWD: R1 513 700
F-Type Coupe P380 R-Dynamic AWD: R1 659 300
F-Type Coupe P380 AWD First Edition: R1 659 300
F-Type Coupe P575 R AWD: R2 422 700

F-Type Convertible P300 R-Dynamic RWD: R1 241 000
F-Type Convertible P380 R-Dynamic RWD: R1 511 800
F-Type Convertible P380 R-Dynamic AWD: R1 652 800
F-Type Convertible P380 AWD First Edition: R1 652 800
F-Type Convertible P575 R AWD: R2 421 000

Buy a Jaguar F-Type on Cars.co.za

Further Reading

Updated Jaguar F-Type Sportscar Coming

Cars.co.za Journo To Take On Knysna Hillclimb

Jaguar F-Type R Coupe Breaks SA Land Speed Record

Jaguar F-Type Facelifted for 2017

Maserati Sedans Gain Ferrari V8s

Notable top speed increase for Maserati's four-door models. 

Maserati has done what it does best in times of crisis and updated its offering of V8 engined family cars.

The Italian luxury and performance car brand might be struggling with sales, an ageing product portfolio and the issue of transitioning to SUVs, but there is nothing troubled with its design values.

In the market for desirable high-performance sedans, there are few rivals for the Ghibli or Quattroporte. These mid- and large format executive cars look elegantly purposeful in a manner that AMG, M-Division and RS-cars cannot match.

With its new Trofeo derivatives of the Ghibli and Quattroporte, there are restyled rear light clusters and finishing on the front quarter panel side vents.

On the Ghibli Trofeo you will also notice a reshaped bonnet stamping, with additional air intake ducts, similar to those on the Levante Trofeo SUV.

As with all special edition performance cars, there are new wheel options too, with both the Ghibli and Quattroporte Trofeo rolling on 21-inch Orione design hoops.

By far the most appealing part of this new Trofeo range expansion is the engine specification. Although Maserati has offered the Ferrari sourced 3.8-litre turbocharged V8 in its Quattroporte GTS for a while, the smaller and more agile Ghibli has never featured such a powerful engine before.

Boosting 435kW and 730Nm of torque, the Ghibli Trofeo has an abundance of engine power and typically dramatic Maserati exhaust acoustics. Power is channelled to the rear wheels via a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission.

Acceleration times are not quite as quick as its all-wheel-drive rivals from north of the Alps, with the Ghibli Trofeo running a benchmark 0-100kph time in 4.3 seconds. Top speed is another matter, altogether, with the Ghibli Trofeo good for 326kph.

The Trofeo updates certainly make an interesting case for Maserati’s Ghibli as a more purposeful M5 and E63 AMG rival. Fans of the trident badge should act swiftly, though, as Maserati’s agreement with Ferrari for use of the twin-turbocharged V8 engine, will lapse in 2022.

Further Reading

Maserati Ghibli Hybrid Revealed

Maserati teases its new MC20

Maserati Ghibli S (2016) Review

Maserati Levante S (2018) Launch Review

 

New BMW M4 rendered: Wild or Mild?

With about a month to go before BMW officially unveils its next-generation M4 (G82), a Russian website has published these renders based on spy images of the upcoming coupe, which will be launched in 353 kW rear-wheel-drive and 375 kW Competition all-wheel-drive guises.

There seems no end to the controversy surrounding the tall-grille treatment of the new BMW 4 Series. Last week, Frank Stephenson, who designed the E53-generation BMW X5, praised the overall design of the G22-generation 4 Series on his YouTube channel, but described the (intersecting) double-kidney design as reminiscent of “nostrils” and “a graphic that doesn’t sit well with the proportions of the car”.

Stephenson could also not understand why BMW opted to position the number plate in the centre of grille (because it essentially chops the design in two), adding: “they (seemed to) design a grille, then they designed a car, and… brought the two together (but) they’re not speaking the same language”.


That front-fender gill (with the subtle M4 strake) looks perfectly functional… as opposed to those on many contemporary cars.

Whether you agree or disagree with the American designer’s assessment (he was named "one of most influential automotive designers of our time" by Motor Trend magazine and famously penned the modern interations of the Mini Cooper and Fiat 500, as well as a number of Ferrari, Maserati and McLaren models – see his abridged portfolio), it’s evident that the inherent athleticism of the G22’s design lends itself to a purposeful, sportier execution that what we’ve already seen on the M440i xDrive.

It’s quite ballsy to pre-empt a finished version of an upcoming model with is unveiling just a few weeks away, but this artist’s impression (by Nikita Chuiko), which appeared on Kolesa, has drawn praise from commentators, because it expresses the muscular, purposeful look that the new range’s flagship should have, but it leaves space for – that is to say, the potential to fit more dramatic/elaborate aerodynamic addenda to – even hotter interpretations of the car, such as upcoming DTM, GTS and CS derivatives.


The origins of this photo, which popped up on the internet in June, are not apparent, but seems like it started on Reddit.

Compared with its standard siblings, the M4 is anticipated to have a more sculpted front apron with a pair of large air intakes flanking the aforementioned grille, while vertical brake-cooling ducts sit at the outer ends of the bumper. The black lip spoiler is complemented by similarly-coloured sills (underneath the pinched side skirts), triangular fender gills and, of course, M-specific side mirrors.

Larger, 20-spoke alloys and a lowered suspension give the newcomer that “ready-to-pounce” look, while the minimalist rear bumper is adorned with a diffuser with a quartet of exhaust tips (an M-car’s calling card, if you will) jutting out between the pairs of fins. The boot spoiler is "split in half" and oh-so-subtle.


Picture credit: S. Baldauf/SB-Medien. Photo watermarked at the photographer's request.

Will the finished product closely resemble this rendered car… and, if so, is the execution bold enough for the next iteration of BMW’s most iconic sportscar? Perhaps BMW will hold something back for the hotter derivatives. We eagerly await the reveal of the G82 and its G80 sedan sibling next month. BMW M3 (2020) International Prototype Drive

What we do know is that the BMW M4 will be powered by a version of the 3.0-litre twin-turbo inline-6 (S58) engine, which will direct 353 kW and 600 Nm to the rear wheels through a 6-speed manual ‘box or 8-speed automatic transmission. The Competition version, on the other hand, will reportedly produce 375 kW, and be available exclusively with M xDrive all-wheel-drive and the auto 'box. We'll bring you official images and specifications as soon as they become available…

Related content:

BMW M3 (2020) International Prototype Drive

BMW 4 Series (2020) International Prototype Drive

BMW M4 Heritage Price in South Africa

10 Cool Things: BMW 4 Series & upcoming M4

The DeLorean DMC-12 – We Film The Movie Star in South Africa

Yes, this is the rare DeLorean DMC-12 from the 1985 sci-fi movie Back to the Future!  

There are myriad examples of Hollywood turning cars into stars, and those cars becoming legends. The Mustang Bullitt is a classic example, but arguably the most iconic movie car at least of the ’80s generation is this, the DeLorean DMC-12, and best of all, there’s one right here in South Africa.

It lives at the fantastic Franschhoek Motor Museum outside Cape Town. The thing is, this car’s own story is worthy of a movie. Wayne Harley, the curator of the museum, takes us for a spin in this incredibly rare and original DMC-12, and simultaneously takes us through the difficult and controversial birth of this car.

If you’d like to see this exceptional car in the metal, head over to www.fmm.co.za and book a tour of the museum.

Watch the SentiMETAL series of videos on YouTube.

Kia Sonet Officially Revealed

Kia’s smallest SUV yet, the Sonet, has finally been revealed and it’s headed for SA in 2020.

The Kia Sonet is the Korean’s entrant to the compact SUV segment. It will sit beneath Seltos in the brand’s growing SUV lineup. The Sonet is based on the Hyundai Venue platform but is built in an entirely different factory in Bangalore, India – the same factory where we currently receive our Seltos range from. Take a look at what the new Sonet has to offer. 

Engines

The Sonet has 3 engines available, although the engines to be offered in South Africa has yet to be confirmed. There’s a 1.2-litre naturally-aspirated 4-cylinder to start the range, no power figures were stipulated, but we suspect this is the same engine from the Picanto, which delivers 65 kW and 120 Nm of torque. Next in line is the 1.0-litre 3-pot turbopetrol, likely the same engine that powers the Hyundai Venue, meaning 88 kW and 172 Nm of torque will be offered. Topping off the range is a 1.5-litre turbodiesel unit, likely pulled from the Seltos with 86 kW and 250 Nm of torque. The diesel engine is available with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. The petrol units make use of either a 5-speed manual (1.2 model), 6-speed manual, or 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.

There is also what Kia calls a Smartstream 6-speed iMT gearbox available. It is effectively a manual ‘box but without the clutch pedal. You still control the gearshifts by moving the gear lever, but the clutch work is taken care of by the car. This seems to be a step up from the AMT gearboxes we have tried in the Kwid, Fiat 500 and Suzuki S-Presso that are awful to drive.

Interior Features

The interior of the new Sonet has many of the modern tech features and even some that are only available in more expensive segments. Wireless charging is available, for instance. There is also a large 10.25-inch infotainment screen and a smaller 4.25-inch digital instrument cluster. Top-spec models will also offer a seven-speaker sound system from Bose – complete with LED mood lighting that turns the interior of your Sonet into an 80s Discotech.

Kia is claiming the Sonet has an air purifying system that has 2 levels of purification. The system not only effectively cleans out pollutants from the cabin, but also kills bacteria and viruses as it cleans the air. 

As with most Korean cars, app connectivity is standard for both Apple and iPhone users and the UVO connect system is installed that allows users to connect to multiple apps and receive updates over the air. Many of the features of UVO connect haven’t made it to SA yet so we await local confirmation on what will be available closer to the local launch date.

Also, Kia has not yet divulged official load space information but considering that the Sonet is based on the Hyundai Venue, it should offer similar load-carrying capacity in the region of 350-litres. 

Safety specification

Continuing with the increase in safety systems to its vehicles, Kia has gone to town with the standard safety spec on the Sonet. Most notable is the inclusion of stability control, hill-start assist and a tyre pressure monitoring system. Further to this, it has up to 6 airbags fitted as well as ABS with EBD, automatic headlights, ISOFIX child anchoring points and front and rear parking sensors.

As mentioned, local specification has yet to be confirmed by Kia South Africa. We will know closer to the local launch what specification of engines, transmissions and interior features we will receive.

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