Ford has revealed a special-edition of its GT supercar to celebrate its Le Mans win. Meet the Ford GT Heritage Edition.
When the Ford GT won the 1966 24 of Le Mans as well as numerous other endurance events, it became a legend. Watch the 2019 Ford v Ferrari film to get an idea of what a momentous achievement this was. Drivers Ken Miles and Lloyd Ruby led a 1-2-3-5 Ford domination at Daytona, kicking off a magical season for the Ford GT40 MK II, with additional 1-2-3 wins at Sebring and Le Mans. Ferrari's dominance in racing was smashed.
To celebrate this iconic moment in motor racing history, the 2021 Ford GT Heritage Edition features a unique paint finish, with an exposed carbon fibre bonnet adding a great contrast to the white bodywork. There are red accents, 98 roundel graphics on the side as well as Heritage Gold 20-inch forged wheels to round off the look.
Inside, there's black Alcantara suede on the instrument panel and steering wheel. There are also anodized red paddle shifters as well as red performance seats.
As a reminder, the Ford GT is powered by a twin-turbocharged V6 petrol engine delivering 482 kW and 746 Nm. It has a top speed of 348 kph.
Another Californian electric car start-up shows a new product.
The relentless pace of new electric vehicle company product announcements shows no sign of abating.
As the world is navigating its way out of lockdown, start-up electric vehicle companies are keen to leverage a sense of future by offering customers a clean break with legacy automotive technology.
The latest of these is Mullen Technologies, operating from Brea, California. Thanks to a new round of funding, Mullen is now keen on producing its very own electric vehicle, which is configured as a compact crossover.
As a design consultancy, Mullen had already assisted Chinese car brand, Qiantu, to develop its own Dragonfly K50, but the new venture will be an independent product, scheduled for introduction by 2022.
The name might rankle Mazda’s legal department a touch, as Mullen’s new battery-powered crossover is called the MX 05. That naming convention is uncomfortably close to Mazda’s iconic MX-5 sportscar, but a court will have to decide upon the merits and semantics of such a case – if it is ever filed.
Built on a skateboard-type electric vehicle platform, the MX 05 promises much potency. Its floor section is anchored by a 100 kWh battery pack, which is greater energy density than anything on offer from both Tesla and Porsche’s current electric vehicles.
Although the electric motor system’s power output is not disclosed, Mullen does claim performance and range figures for its MX 05. The compact crossover should be good for 0-100 kph in 3 seconds and deliver a very competitive 480 km worth driving range, on a single charge.
The MX 05’s single available product image shows a vehicle which is quite mature in its design journey, indicating that Mullen is committed that 2022 delivery date. It has also confirmed that a R2bn capital funding source has been secured, toward outfitting an assembly facility for production.
Mahindra has revealed the new generation of its Willys-Jeep-inspired Thar compact off-roader. Compared with its predecessor, however, this rival to the Suzuki Jimny will be available in 3 configurations, in turbopetrol and –diesel guises, and come extensively equipped.
The 1st generation of the Thar (the closest thing in our new-vehicle market to a budget off-roader… well, apart from the Jimny) has served the Indian brand dutifully for about a decade and last year, Mahindra South Africa introduced the Adventure Series spec of the Thar, which was aimed squarely at the local market's plucky off-road enthusiasts. With an Indian-market launch date of early October earmarked for this, the new-generation Thar, we’re confident the newcomer should be introduced in Mzansi in early 2021.
After 10 years of service, it's time for the Thar to be replaced by an all-new model; it looks similar, but is much fancier inside.
Just as was the case with its predecessor, which drew inspiration from the original Willys Jeep (which Mahindra began building – under licence – in India in the ‘50s), the new Thar retains its purposely boxy 2-door silhouette. There will be more flavours than before, though: it will be offered with a hardtop, a fixed soft-top or manual convertible roof.
Apart from a wider, better-balanced stance, the new Thar’s exterior features dual-tone bumpers, chunky black cladding, front fog lamps, LED daytime running lamps and tail-light clusters. Its 18-inch alloys are shod with 255/65 all-terrain tyres.
The background of this image might be a bit fantastic, but for enthusiasts who like al fresco off-roading, the convertible fits the bill.
As before, Mahindra’s diminutive off-roader has a body-on-ladder-frame construction and this model sports an independent front- and multi-link rear suspension configuration. It will be available with a choice of 4-cylinder turbocharged powerplants – either a 112 kW/320 Nm 2.0-litre petrol or a 97 kW/320 Nm 2.2-litre diesel.
Manual or Automatic
The 2 engines will be available with either a 6-speed manual ‘box or torque-convertor automatic transmission in combination with a shift-on-the-fly 4-wheel-drive system, replete with a low-range transfer case and a mechanical rear differential lock. Brake-locking differential and electromechanical driveline disconnect functions are also included.
Hardcore bundu bashers will want to know the following info urgently, so here goes… Important off-roading stats for the new Thar are 226 mm of ground clearance, a wading depth of 650 mm, while the newcomer's approach-, departure and breakover angles are 41.8-, 36.8- and 27 degrees respectively.
Mahindra has packed the new Thar's touchscreen infotainment system full of off-road-related functions and gizmos.
Given the new model’s (still) rather utilitarian exterior packaging, one would be forgiven for thinking the Mahindra would have a relatively no-frills interior, but although hard-wearing plastic surfaces abound and the dashboard switchgear is said to be (IP54 Standard) drizzle resistant, the cabin is appointed relatively luxuriously.
The Thar will be offered with 4 front-facing seats, of which the rear seatback splits 50:50 (we believe this will be the most popular configuration) or 2 front seats in combination with 4 side-facing seats positioned behind them in the load bay. The newcomer's instrument panel includes a TFT multi-info display, the multifunction steering wheel offers satellite controls for audio, phone and cruise-control functions (and is tilt-adjustable), while the driver’s seat is adjustable for height (with adjustable lumbar support).
The Thar is perhaps too small to be classed a compact family car, but it's cabin is certainly a lot less utilitarian than before.
Apart from the remote central locking, electric windows, power-adjustable side mirrors, electronic HVAC controls, the new Thar comes equipped with a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with built-in navigation and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Metal-look accents and faux carbon-fibre trim complete the upmarket look.
Roof-mounted speakers
Although Mahindra did not go into too much detail on the specific funtionality, the newcomer’s infotainment system is also said to incorporate an adventure-statistics display, including adventure calendar display, smart watch and -phone connectivity (through pairing with the Blue Sense app), plus tyre-pressure and direction monitoring systems.
In terms of safety features, the Indian-market-spec Thar will come equipped with a built-in roll cage with 3-point seat belts for all passengers (in 4-seater configuration), dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, an electronic stability programme (with rollover mitigation), hill-start assist and hill-descent control, as well as rear parking sensors.
The addition of an automatic option will certainly broaden the Thar's appeal to urban-based weekend outdoorists.
Designed and engineered in India and manufactured at Mahindra’s Nashik Plant, the all-new Thar will be available in 6 colours: Red Rage, Mystic Copper, Napoli Black, Aquamarine, Galaxy Grey and Rocky Beige, the manufacturer says.
We’ll keep you updated on the new Thar's estimated time of arrival in South Africa and expected specifications as soon as more information becomes available.
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.
