Suzuki has debuted a bolder version of its popular Swift hatchback, in Thailand. The fourth-generation Suzuki Swift is one of the Japanese brand’s core products and to bridge the dynamic image appeal between Swift Sport and the less dramatic derivatives, enter the Extreme.
Revealed at an auto show in Thailand, the Swift Extreme concept shows how receptive the current hatch is to design upgrades without spoiling its proportions. Suzuki’s design team has added all the requisite styling details you’d expect on a youth-orientated performance hatch.
Viewed from the front there is a blacked-out grille and new bumper moulding. Underscoring the grille is a splitter and dominating the Swift Extreme’s front view is a reshaped bonnet with air vents punched into its surfacing. In its side profile the Swift Extreme rolls a new alloy wheel design (of unspecified size) and features huge fender flares.
Around the rear there are dual fixed spoilers, one the roofline and other applied to the hatch's lower tailgate section. Suzuki has also added a body-coloured diffuser, framing the rear bumper, with integrated square exhaust ends. For the moment this Suzuki Swift Extreme is purely a concept car, but all the parts appear to be of a production specification. There is a likelihood that some of these Extreme accessories could become optional upgrades in future. They would appeal to those Swift owners who desire a more dynamic appearance but don’t quite want to commit to the full Swift Sport ownership experience.
This is the second look at the forthcoming Toyota GR Yaris, which will be revealed at the Tokyo Auto Salon in January 2020.
The Toyota GR Yaris is not just a hotted-up version of the consumer hatchback, but rather the second sports car engineered by GR after the Supra.
With technology lifted straight from the Toyota Gazoo Racing rally car, the GR Yaris is going to be quite a little weapon when it's officially revealed in January 2020 at the Tokyo Auto Salon.
Not much is known about its powertrain, but guesses range from a big lumpy 2.0-litre turbo 4-pot to a downsized-yet-punchy triple turbo. All we know is that if GR has given the Yaris the same level of performance and engineering prowess as the Supra, this is going to be one serious little hot hatch!
Since its global launch in 2017, Atlas has been hugely successful, with most of its demand coming from North America and China.
Built on VW’s advanced MQB platform, it is the largest vehicle evolved from this Golf-sized structure. Positioned between Tiguan (which it shares a platform with) and Touareg, the Atlas would compete with Fortuner, if it were available in South Africa.
VW is readying a product update for the Atlas and some official sketches give us a clearer idea of what the facelift will look like when it is revealed in early in 2020.
Engineers and designers have created a new front bumper, which also reshapes the fascia and grille surround. This new bumper has special pedestrian safety impact absorption properties and is part of the 76 mm overall increase in length.
Measured bumper-to-bumper the new Atlas is 5 116 mm, which makes it a 630 mm longer than its MQB platform twin, the Tiguan.
Other discernible styling changes are LED headlights and around the rear, 2020 model year Atlas features a remoulded bumper design (framed by a full-length horizontal reflector strip) and revised light clusters.
Technical changes include additional driver assistance systems, such as road sign traffic detection and traffic jam assist. The latter is supported by adaptive cruise control, when triggered in severe traffic, at crawling speeds.
The only drivetrain change is VW’s decision to offer 4Motion all-wheel drive with the entry-level 2-litre turbopetrol engine. Previously, all-wheel-drive was only available on the 3.6-litre V6 Atlas.
VW expects to launch the new Atlas during Q1 of 2020.
Land Rover SA Introduces Limited Edition Discovery
Land Rover South Africa has announced a limited edition Discovery model. Here's specs and pricing.
There'll be just 50 units up for grabs and on paper at least, looks to be excellent value. Based on the Discovery SE package, which already has a comprehensive array of equipment like LED headlights, rain-sensing wipers, a 10-speaker Enhanced Sound System, Terrain Response, 12-way leather seats and InControl Touch Navigation with Apple CarPlay, this model boasts even more.
So, what do you get on top? Well, there's now an added sunroof, power inner tailgate, roof rails and keyless entry. The cabin gets third-row seating, a centre console cooler, ebony headlining and second seating row USB ports.
Under the bonnet is the SD4 Ingenium diesel motor which punches out 177 kW and 430 Nm. Land Rover claims 0-100 kph in just 8.7 seconds which consuming just 6.4 L/100 km. The vehicle also features an 8-speed automatic transmission as standard.
Land Rover Discovery Limited Edition Price in South Africa (December 2019)
The vehicle is available in either Fuji White or Indus Silver and comes with Land Rover’s standard 5-year/100 000km maintenance plan and warranty.
Audi has revealed updates to its RS5 coupe and RS5 Sportback. Herewith all the details.
At first glance, it does not appear that much as changed when it comes to the 2020 Audi RS5 coupe and RS5 Sportback. However, there are big changes, especially when it comes to the cabin. The exterior receives a wider and flatter grille and there are air vents which are a nod towards the classic Audi Sport quattro. The vehicle also gets wider wheel arches, side sills and diffuser. You can get a carbon roof for the RS5 coupe.
Inside, there are revised RS sport seats with a choice of either Alcantara or Nappa leather. There's a new digital dashboard with a rev counter lifted straight from the RS6/RS7. There are now 2 individual RS modes, which are accessed by buttons on the steering wheel. The updated RS5 rides on 19-inch alloy wheels, with 20-inch units available as an option.
The engine and gearbox is carried over and for the record it is the 2.9-litre turbocharged V6, which produces 331 kW and 600 Nm. Power reaches all 4 wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission and both models can hit 100 kph in a claimed 3.9 seconds.
"The revision of the RS5 Coupé and RS5 Sportback marks the successful conclusion of our 25th anniversary and the renewal of our model range," says Oliver Hoffmann, Managing Director of Audi Sport GmbH. "Thanks to the standard permanent quattro drive, they occupy a special position in their segment."
Jeep’s awkwardly-sized family car could be just another SUV among a host of competitors, some of which have much more brand cachet in the local market. It seems to have the odds stacked against it, but in 2.4 4×4 Trailhawk guise, the Compass has real off-road ability, which elevates it to adventure-SUV status. Could this be its trump card? Let's find out…
We like: Off-road ability, ride comfort, standard features.
We don’t like: Fuel consumption, not as spacious as rivals.
Difficult to place the Compass in terms of size, it's similar to a Nissan Qashqai/X-Trail.
The Jeep Compass 2.4 4×4 Trailhawk is tricky to categorise within conventional segments of the contemporary new-vehicle market. It cuts its own niche because, unlike most similarly-sized family cars, it comes with genuine all-wheel-drive ability, as well as low-range. As a result, it’s the most capable midsized SUV on the market; one could say it performs a role that earlier generations of the Cherokee did. So, we'd describe its ideal target market as buyers who seek vehicles with which they could transport their families across technically tricky off-road routes, if necessary. Think of this Compass as sort of a mixture of a Subaru Forester and Toyota Fortuner, then…
How it fares in terms of…
All-terrain ability
The 2.4 4×4 Trailhawk may look like a city slicker/kerb climber from the outside, but it’s a very capable off-roader equipped with all the modern traction control systems that make off-the-beaten-track excursions (largely) stress-free. For a start, a rotary dial in the centre console allows you to select the terrain you’re traversing so that the vehicle can set up its drivetrain to achieve optimal levels of traction. You can select from Snow, Rock, Sand, Mud and Auto.
Auto is the default on-road mode, which disconnects drive to the rear wheels (and thereby optimises fuel consumption in everyday driving conditions). The other modes are self-explanatory, but for the record, the Jeep offers an approach angle of 26.5 degrees, break-over angle of 21.2 degrees and departure angle of 31.6 degrees. In 4×4 Trailhawk guise it gets an extra 30 mm of ground clearance (taking it up to a total of 216 mm, which is reasonable for an off-roader).
Jeep's Trail Rated tag only goes onto vehicles with prolific off-road credentials.
But it’s the low-range transfer case (with a 20:1 crawling gear) that really sets the 2.4 4×4 Trailhawk apart from its rivals. Given its kerb weight of 1.5 tonnes, it’s not a particularly heavy SUV, which makes hopping over rocks or climbing steep inclines easier – even with a middling naturally aspirated 4-cylinder petrol engine under the Jeep's bonnet. When off-roading, you do have to apply a proper boot of the throttle pedal to get the Compass moving and keep its engine high in its rev range to achieve the best results. Aside from perhaps when crossing sand dunes, a turbodiesel is arguably a better choice of engine in this application…
On-road ability
Despite being very good in the rough stuff, the little Compass deals with day-to-day driving conditions reasonably well too. The ride quality is comfortable and the body doesn’t roll anywhere near as much as you'd expect from a vehicle that's as capable off-road as the Jeep is. The compact wheelbase makes it feel very "together" out on the open road, where it proved very adept at completing long-haul trips. There’s nothing to complain about with the steering either; the tiller delivers accurate and well-weighted feedback to inputs.
A turbodiesel would probably be a better solution but local fuel does not meet standard.
Meanwhile, the aforementioned 2.4-litre naturally aspirated engine delivers peak outputs of 129 kW and 229 Nm. It’s mated with a 9-speed automatic transmission that shifts gears expectedly and without fuss. The motor could do with more torque, especially when overtaking – you have to work it quite hard to execute swift overtaking manoeuvres. The result of liberal throttle inputs, of course, is a hit to the fuel consumption. Jeep claims an average figure of 9.5 L/100 km, but we found it to be more like 12 L/100 km, which, given the current price of petrol, will drive up running costs appreciably. A turbodiesel engine is offered overseas, but not locally, due to concerns over the quality of our diesel.
Practicality
In terms of size, the Compass is actually a small- to mid-sized SUV. It's based on a stretched Jeep Renegade platform and, if you’re looking for something similarly sized, its closest match is a Nissan Qashqai or its sibling, the X-Trail. It’s quite a bit smaller than one would expect, given its asking price of almost R600k. Passenger space is decent, even the rear adults have sufficient leg and headroom, provided they're not taller than 6ft (183 cm). It’s the load bay that lets the Compass down, though – its claimed capacity is only 438 litres. As an adventure vehicle, it’s likely that the 2.4 4×4 Trailhawk will have to transport lots of outdoorsy kit and a bigger luggage capacity would broaden its appeal.
See electric bootlid button mid-left? Awkward positioning means you have to get out of the tailgate's way every time you close it.
The tailgate is electrically operated, but strangely via a button inside the load bay rather than on the leading edge of the tailgate. This doesn’t seem like the most practical solution: in practice, you have to dodge the closing tailgate after you press the button. The centre of the 40/20/40-split rear seatback can fold down into an armrest fitted with a pair of cupholders.
Interior features
The 2.4 4×4 Trailhawk comes fully loaded inside, which you would justifiably expect in a family car with price tag of R600k. The leather seats are particularly comfortable and feature ventilation and electrical adjustment for both driver and passenger. The Apple Carplay/Android Auto interface works the moment you plug in your phone via the USB port, but it would have been beneficial to have somewhere other than the cupholders to place your device while you're driving. Dual-zone climate control is standard and front and rear park distance control with a rear camera are definite pluses.
The instrument cluster features 2 analogue dials that flank a digital screen that supplies custom information (speed, trip details etc.).
The Trailhawk's fully loaded in terms of comfort features and modern connectivity.
As for the quality of the cabin materials, the Jeep's interior feels solidly put together with a mix of hard- and soft-touch plastics, while leather wraps the steering wheel, transmission lever and door handles. It’s a mixture of hard-wearing and upmarket materials that again makes it difficult to benchmark the 2.4 4×4 Trailhawk against its rivals. The removable rubber mats are a good choice, considering the mucky routes this derivative is likely to traverse from time to time.
Safety
The list of safety equipment fitted to the Compass is excellent. The 2.4 4×4 Trailhawk even features adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, although the latter can be bothersome when it firmly encourages you to steer the Jeep away from lane markings. Six airbags, ABS with EBD and brake assist, electronic stability control and LED daytime running lights are standard too.
Pricing & warranty
As of December 2019, the 2.4 4×4 Trailhawk is the only Compass on sale in SA, but other derivatives are expected to arrive in 2020. It costs R599 990 and comes with a 3-year/100 000 km warranty and service plan.
Verdict
It's a small niche, but if you don't want a Fortuner but do want a proper off-roader, the Compass Trailhawk is for you.
The Compass 2.4 4×4 Trailhawk carves out its niche well. There aren’t many true off-roaders at this end of the market that are as refined on- or off-road as Jeep's newcomer. It’s generously equipped with modern connectivity and comfort features, plus it offers a high level of safety. Passengers will undoubtedly enjoy the SUV's ride comfort and generous occupant space, although the smallish load bay may put off buyers if they're split between the Jeep and a competitor.
At its current price, the Jeep's unlikely to be a volume seller, as most buyers that really want to go off-road will opt for the peace of mind that’s offered by established bakkie-based adventure SUVs, especially the Toyota Fortuner 2.4GD-6 4×4 auto. While this version of the Compass is a very good off-roader and certainly a much better car (on-road) than the Fortuner, conservative and brand-conscious buyers are likely to invariably favour the Japanese model.
There's another new McLaren out. This new one's the McLaren 620R, but unlike some of the recent creations, this one is a road-legal racecar.
The McLaren 620R is not going to be made in huge numbers as the Woking-based brand says just 350 will be assembled. Based on the McLaren 570S GT4 and celebrate this vehicle's illustrious racing career, the 620R is said to "deliver a race-car experience on either track or road."
What exactly does this mean? Well, it shares quite a bit with the GT4 racecar, such as the carbon fibre chassis, adjustable aerodynamics and suspension. That trick suspension ranges from 2-way manually adjustable coilover dampers with 32 clicks of adjustment per corner to the stiffer anti-roll bars and springs.
Then there's the engine, with the M838TE 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8 motor produces 455 kW and 620 Nm. Unlike its GT4 sibling which is restricted, this gives you the maximum amount of shove. Acceleration is brutal, with 0-100 kph being dispatched in 2.9 seconds, but even more impressive is the 8.1 second time for the 0-200 kph. If the road is long enough, the maximum speed is claimed at 322 kph. The vehicle comes with Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R semi-slick tyres as standard equipment.
Inside, the McLaren 620R features 6-point harnesses and lightweight carbon fibre racing seats and door pull straps. There are lashings of carbon fibre throughout the cabin and can be seen in the shift paddles, steering wheel spokes and centre console.
"The McLaren 570S GT4 is a first-class GT race car that having won races in every championship it has competed in since its first appearance in 2017 is attracting an increasing number of customer racing teams. Now, in response to repeated customer requests, we have homologated that class-leading package for the road in the new McLaren 620R, a limited-edition, 620PS superlight coupe that is the perfect choice for an enthusiast wanting an authentic motorsport driving sensation – and performance to match – on both track and road." Mike Flewitt, Chief Executive Officer, McLaren Automotive.
Lynk & Co's 05 is a Chinese version of a Volvo crossover.
Geely sub-brand, Lynk & Co, has revealed its very ambitious cross-coupe.
The Chinese automotive giant has been clear with its intentions for the Lynk & Co 05, which has been designed, engineered and configured to compete with vehicles such as BMW’s X4.
Featuring a bold exterior design, the Lynk & Co 05 is supposed to be a serious Chinese rival to traditional German premium crossovers.
Some of the notable design details include a wraparound grille and bold colour detailing in the wheels and roofline.
Geely wishes to start retailing the Lynk & Co 05 in Europe and other traditional automotive markets by 2020, and to be successful, the Chinese company realises that it cannot rely purely on discount pricing. As such, the Lynk & Co 05’s cabin is assembled with quality materials and features all the infotainment and digital convenience you’d expect from a contemporary cross-coupe. Anchoring the cabin architecture’s digital offering is a 12.7-inch infotainment screen.
Providing the structure and mechanical engineering for Lynk & Co’s 05, is Volvo. The Swedish brand has been Chinese owned since 2010 and provides most of the technology for Lynk & Co’s 05.
This new Chinese cross-coupe rides on a CMA platform, effectively makes it an XC40 of sorts. Powertrains will be familiar to Volvo owners, with the Lynk & Co 05’s launching with a being a mild-hybrid 2-litre turbopetrol, which boosts 187 kW and 350 Nm. Geely will introduce a smaller 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbo too.
Could X4 buyers potentially be swayed by a Chinese cross-coupe, with Volvo mechanicals? Pricing and delivered vehicle build quality will be crucial inputs affecting that outcome.
The Lynk & Co 05 will also be built in right-hand drive, which does give it a South African market application – if Geely is willing to return to SA.
Updated Nissan Qashqai in SA (2019) Specs & Pricing
Nissan has updated its popular Qashqai compact family car and it’s now available in South Africa. See specification and pricing details below…
The Nissan Qashqai has proven popular in the compact family car segment and buyers will be happy to know that a refreshed Qashqai is now available!
The big news for the latest Qashqai is the arrival of a new 7-inch NissanConnect infotainment system which features a new interface with a more intuitive display, redesigned fascia, customisable home screens and widgets and single line search for the navigation system which makes it easier and quicker to find a location. The touchscreen itself has a new button layout and a faster processor to enhance operating speed.
The system also offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality. The system also provides a view of the rear-view camera.
Nissan has also beefed up its Nissan Intelligent Mobility (NIM) safety specification which now includes Intelligent Forward Emergency Braking, Intelligent Forward Collision Warning, Intelligent Blind Spot Warning, and Intelligent Cross-Traffic Alert.
The Qashqai benefits from a new infotainment system that Nissan says is faster and more intuitive.
Engine Power
Nissan has now streamlined the Qashqai range with 5 derivatives on offer. The range starts with the familiar 1.2-litre turbopetrol engine that produces 85 kW and 190 Nm of torque. This engine is offered in the entry-level Visia trim grade as well as the mid-spec Acenta and top-of-the-range Tekna grade.
A 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine with 81 kW and 260 Nm of torque is now offered in the Acenta Plus trim grade only.
The Qashqai can be had with either a 6-speed manual transmission or Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), the latter of which is offered on the Acenta and Tekna trim grades only.
Nissan Qashqai – Price in South Africa
Qashqai 1.2T Visia – R368 100
Qashqai 1.2T Acenta – R396 900
Qashqai 1.2T Acenta CVT – R415 900
Qashqai 1.5 dCi Acenta Plus – R443 900
Qashqai 1.2T Tekna CVT – R458 300
The Nissan Qashqai is sold with a 6-year/150 000 km warranty and 3-year/90 000 km service plan.
BMW has released a teaser image of its forthcoming BMW M4 GT3 racer which also hints at what to expect from the road-going production version.
The next-generation BMW M4 Coupe is currently in development and it will also spawn the racing M4 GT3 car teased in the image above. While the M4 GT3 will undoubtedly feature aggressive styling, this teaser image does, however, have us wondering what the bottom half of the car will look like…
The BMW Concept 4 has a huge grille, but will the next M4 wear it?
Earlier this year BMW showed its Concept 4 which previews the design direction of the new 4 Series. Needless to say, the gigantic grille seen on the Concept 4 has caused a stink all over the world and divided opinion, with many people questioning BMW’s current obsession with this large grille design which also plagues other new models in BMW’s stable such as the X7 and 7-Series.
Will the new M4 also feature an oversize kidney grille? Based on this teaser image, we think so, but just how big remains to be seen.
What we do know is that the new M4 will be powered by the same turbocharged 3.0-litre 6-cylinder engine which is found in the X3 M and X4 M and according to BMW, it will be tuned to deliver over 500 hp or 373 kW. Styling aside, the new M4 coupe and its convertible sibling should offer impressive performance.
We will keep you updated as soon as more information becomes available. The BMW M3/M4 are expected to be revealed towards the end of 2020, with a market introduction scheduled for 2021.
