Volvo has revealed an all-electric version of its stylish and compact XC40. It also has an interesting name, dubbed Recharge.
The reveal of the all-electric Volvo XC40 wasn't just a product reveal, but also introduced the brand's Recharge car line concept. Recharge is Volvo's plan to launch a full electric car every year for 5 years, with the goal of making all-electric cars 50% of its global sales by 2025. The rest of the lineup will be hybrids.
As for the Volvo XC40 Recharge, it's the company's first electric car and the first Volvo with a brand-new infotainment system powered by Google's Android operating system. Yes, that's correct, Volvo has ditched its native software and replaced it with Android. The vehicle offers an all-electric and all-wheel-drive setup that can go over 400 km on a single charge and using a fast charger, will get 80% capacity after just 40 minutes.
"We have said this several times before: for Volvo Cars, the future is electric," said Håkan Samuelsson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Volvo Cars. "Today we take a major new step in that direction with the launch of our fully electric XC40 and the Recharge car line."
As opposed to its sporty and youthful A-Class sibling, which is expected to attract a new clientele to Mercedes-Benz, the B-Class appeals to more mature and practically-minded buyers. Essentially a more practical A-Class, the B200 Style we've tested should prove popular among customers who need a bit more space and legroom.
We like: Frugal and smooth powertrain, excellent rear legroom, great driving position, commendable luggage space.
We don’t like: Optional AMG kit looks the part, but worsens the ride quality, standard MBUX looks very… basic.
Fast Facts
Price: R526 900
Engine: 1.3-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine
Some Mercedes-Benz dealers regularly offer specials: Have look here.
What is it?
The optional AMG body kit gives the B200 Style a sportier stance, but it stops short of a pseudo-hot-hatch look.
While most would classify the B200 as a hatchback, "mommy wagon/van" and so on, Mercedes-Benz, being the upmarket brand it is, has labelled its B-Class "a sports tourer". The touring part we get, but the sports? Well, that's up for debate. Despite its questionable official description, the Mercedes-Benz B-Class has done surprisingly well for itself, having tallied up more than 1.5 million sales since it first came to market in 2005. Its typical buyer is someone who is looking for a premium small MPV with an SUV-like perched driving position, refinement and, of course, practicality.
The new (W247-generation) B-Class recently arrived in South Africa. The range's lineup is simple… There are 2 versions: a B200 Style turbopetrol or a B200d Style turbodiesel (kudos to the Three-pointed Star for keeping things simple). Of course, you can choose to spec up your Benz to near-ludicrous levels, but whereas most media-fleet vehicles tend to come fully-optioned, our test unit felt comparatively sparsely specced, which allowed us to focus on its abilities without being distracted by the gadgets and gizmos. In fact, when we dug deeper, we uncovered many of its talents.
How it fares in terms of…
Practicality and interior execution
Red stitching provides a subtle sporty touch to the B200 Style's seats, which are trimmed in suede and leather.
Make of the B-Class' conservative styling and "distinguished" clientele what you will – it's a very practical vehicle. We had the chance to go on a weekend getaway with the B200 Style and it easily swallowed up our luggage; we didn't even need to fold the 2nd row of seats down. Mercedes-Benz claims a load bay capacity of 455 litres, which increases to 1 540 litres with the rear bench folded. If you were wondering, the A-Class hatch can only muster 370 to 1 210 litres, so there is a clear-cut advantage to lean towards the B-Class if extra carrying capacity is a key requirement.
The most crossover-like trait of the B-Class is its driving position, which feels more upright than that of a conventional hatchback. Headroom all round and exterior visibility pluses too (testers joked that this car was perfect for those who don top hats)! The additional headspace is a boon for taller occupants and we appreciated how the raised driving position eased ingress/egress. We have to mention the tech as this latest generation of compact Mercedes-Benz vehicles come with the advanced MBUX digital user interface. Consisting of a skateboard-sized horizontal infotainment panel, the MBUX system is slick and intuitive (you'll definitely want the uprated pair of 10-inch screens… the standard offering looks a touch small).
A pair of haptic controller pads supplement the usual buttons and switches on the multifunction steering wheel.
Performance
Co-developed with French carmaker Renault, the B200 Style's 1.3-litre turbocharged engine produces a respectable 120 kW and 250 Nm. Power goes to the front wheels via a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Its engine note might be a mite uninspired, but it's a more-than-willing motor that pulls strongly up steep includes (even when 3 adults and their luggage are onboard). For the record, Mercedes-Benz claims an 8.2-second 0 to 100 kph sprint time and, to be quite honest, the little Benz feels that brisk. All in all, it's an admirable performance from such a small-capacity engine.
Its real strength is fuel efficiency, anyway. While most manufacturers' claims are unnaturally low and this is one such case, we managed to come away with a trip computer reading of 7.2 L/100 km. The official claim is 5.6 L/100 km, so we're happy with the B200's frugality. Want a bit more in-gear punch and even lower consumption? Then look to the B200d Style, which features Benz's advanced new turbodiesel motor (the claim for that derivative is 4.5 L/100 km). Drawbacks? Well, if you're really in a hurry, the B200's mill does tend to sound a bit rough higher up in its rev range.
Ride and handling
Our test unit came fitted with the AMG Line upgrade, which adds 18-inch AMG-style wheels, the attractive diamond-effect grille and a sporty-looking rear diffuser. Under the skin, the suspension is lowered and the steering is said to be more direct than in the standard car. Speaking of which, the tiller is upgraded too: it's wrapped in nappa leather and has a flat bottom. Interestingly, the B-Class comes standard with a torsion-beam rear setup, but you can get the multi-link suspension thanks to the Engineering Package (which our test car came with). However, we're a tad perplexed by the addition of a sporty AMG suspension on a model that's geared towards a demographic that would rank sportiness as quite low on the priority list.
Despite its MPV shape, the Mercedes-Benz B-Class doesn't have a pillowy ride; it behaves much like its A-Class sibling. The AMG suspension is firm and road noise a tad too high for our liking, but if you're in the mood, you really can usher this B200 Style around twisty corners with reasonable precision. We feel that if you're after some refinement and comfort, then stay clear of the R50 000 AMG Line option. The steering is light (as are most modern units), but there's enough feel to give you some confidence. The lightness is very handy in and around confined urban environments.
Price and after-sales support
The B200 Style costs R526 900 and comes with a 2-year/unlimited km warranty and 6-year/100 000 km maintenance plan as standard.
Verdict
Don't be fooled by those stylised exhaust tips, they're just for show.
Manufacturers invest so much time, effort and marketing money to ramp up their offerings' style, edginess and showroom appeal, but the B-Class does not need to be cool, nor trendy. It largely trades on what it is and what it is capable of. Benz sells commendable numbers of them (and we understand that many buyers are repeat customers), so clearly the Stuttgart-based firm is doing something right with this "sports tourer"…
The high driving position, occupant comfort and luggage capacity are excellent, as is the punchy powertrain, which is reasonably fuel-efficient. Despite our test unit's bizarre spec (R50k's worth of AMG Line kit and R50k's worth of Engineering Package), the B200 Style's defining qualities still shone brightly. If you want sportiness, consider the A-Class, but if you spec this B-Class carefully, you'll get behind the wheel of a highly advanced family hatchback brimming with semi-autonomous safety tech. Alternatively, you could just wait until 2020 for the all-new GLA and GLB crossovers.
Should you buy one? Despite the persistent onslaught of new crossovers and SUVs, we think the Mercedes-Benz B-Class certainly has its merits. While it lacks the glitz and glamour of its A-Class sibling, the focus on comfort and practicality makes it a sensible option, especially for mature buyers, many of whom are scaling down. As far as rivals go, they've all but disappeared (BMW no longer offers the 2 Series Active Tourer).
After some teasers and a handful of leaked images, this is the BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe and here's all you need to know about the Mercedes-Benz CLA fighter.
Built in Leipzig, Germany for the global market, the BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe will be publically revealed at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November 2019. It's an interesting design, taking cues from the latest 1 Series as well previous generation of Gran Coupe.
In terms of dimensions, the sports sedan is 4 526 millimetres in length,1 800 millimetres in width, but stands just 1 420 millimetres tall. Thanks to the 2 670-millimetre wheelbase, there's plenty of interior space as well as a 430-litre load compartment
Built on the new BMW front-wheel-drive platform, the 2-Series Gran Coupe shares more than a few things with the 1-Series hatchback, including the potent 35i xDrive powertrain. Speaking of engines, the BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe will be available with 3 engines from launch; 2 petrol and 1 diesel.
Kicking off the range is the 218i Gran Coupe with a 1.5-litre turbocharged 3-cylinder petrol motor with 103 kW and 220 Nm. The 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder we've experienced in the M135i xDrive and X2 M35i makes an appearance here and it delivers 225 kW and 450 Nm. Power goes to all 4 wheels via an 8-speed automatic gearbox and with launch control dialled up, it'll hit 100 kph in a claimed 4.8 seconds. For those wanting a diesel, the 220d 2.0-litre has 140 kW and 400 Nm, and is said to consume 4.5-4.2 L/100 km.
We've got no word on local availability as yet, but the German market launch is in March 2020.
This is the all-new European spec Toyota Yaris and it looks to be one of the most advanced vehicles in its segment. But will it come to South Africa?
The Toyota Yaris has proven popular over the years, but the switch from the European Yaris to the Thai-built version raised some eyebrows. Now there's an all-new Yaris which Toyota is claiming is the world's safest car.
Underpinned by the Toyota's New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform and using the all-new TNGA 3-cylinder, 4th generation 1.5-litre hybrid powertrain, the all-new Toyota Yaris is said to boast new levels of efficiency and refinement. No outputs or further details have been given.
Let's talk about those looks though! The new Yaris adopts some elements from the C-HR, which we don't see as a bad thing. Physically, Toyota has reduced Yaris' overall length by 5 mm, but at the same time increased its wheelbase by 50 mm and widened it by 50 mm, which Toyota says ensures the car is agile and manoeuvrable in city driving and parking.
Final specification for our market is yet to be confirmed, but the car you see here boasts a heads-up display, wireless charger, heated steering wheel as well as advanced driver systems such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping asistance and a centre airbag – a first for the segment.
Photos of what appears to be the all-new Toyota Yaris have surfaced online. Here's what we know so far.
Not so long ago, we ran a spy shot story showing what appeared to be the all-new Toyota Yaris GR testing at the Nurburgring. It was one of the very few times we've seen the next-generation Yaris, until now. Thanks to Automotive Uzone, we can get a good look at the new model.
What you see isn't the sporty GR model, but rather something resembling an entry-level compact car. Like the Toyota C-HR, the new Yaris shares the contrasting roof. Under the skin, both vehicles share the TNG platform, something we've experienced in the new Corolla and RAV4 too. TNG is a great platform, not only for its tremendous versatility but also its refinement.
Interestingly, Toyota South Africa makes do with the Thai-built Yaris, which is cheaper to import into our market. However, we feel it's a tad underwhelming and hope that we get the European-spec model. It's a bit early to talk about powertrain, but expect a hybrid setup in some of the higher-spec models, while some naturally-aspirated petrol engines should cover the rest of the range.
As for the 2020 Toyota Yaris GR Sport you see below, it's heading into quite a freshly contested segment, with a soon-to-be-revealed Hyundai i20N, Opel Corsa GSI and Suzuki Swift Sport all vying for a slice of the pie.
Earlier in 2019, it was widely reported that this – the 3rd-generation TT – would be the final iteration of Audi's iconic sportscar. The range was recently updated, so it won't be discontinued very soon, but we have to ask: Is the front-wheel-drive coupe still worth considering if you're in the market for something stylish, sophisticated… and quick?
We like: Still looks fresh and modern, highly-advanced cabin, reasonably practical, excellent specification, fun to drive briskly
We don't like: A front-wheel-drive performance Audi breaks tradition, some odd options
In Turbo Blue, the Audi TT is a sharp-looking and attractive coupe.
Where does it fit in?
The revised Audi TT range, which was mildly updated for 2019, comprises just 2 derivatives: the TT 45 TFSI S tronic you see here, as well as the more potent TTS. The entry-level derivative makes do with a front-wheel-drive setup, while the TTS has (quattro) all-wheel drive. It's likely that an updated TT RS, powered by a near-300 kW 2.5-litre 5-cylinder motor, which we rate as one of the finest-sounding engines, will follow later on.
How it fares in terms of…
Kerb appeal
You'd be hard-pressed to spot any of the updates. Our test unit came with the optional S Line upgrade.
At first glance, it doesn't look like the TT's appearance has changed all that much by virtue of the facelift, but Audi has endowed the coupe's front-end with a 3D grille and large air intakes to "emphasise the vehicle's width". Our test unit came specified with the optional S line exterior package (R24 896*), which enhances the 45 TFSI S tronic's road presence through the addition of aerodynamic addenda and a slight reduction in ride height. The package comprises a front splitter, more elaborate intakes at the front with a wider diffuser at the rear – we wouldn't suggest it's a "must-have option" for a vehicle already as striking as the TT, but it sure adds to the 3rd-gen coupe's desirability. Another change for this version of the TT is an updated standard features list (we'll address that later). By the way, we really like the new colour palette – our unit was finished in Turbo Blue.
The TT always been an interesting car to look at; every generation of the car has sported great lines. The first "Bauhaus-inspired" TT is likely to be remembered as an iconic design, while this 3rd-gen model incorporates the best elements from the 1st and 2nd iterations. Those angular, strobe-like DRLs and the Audi's haunched, wide-set body are imposing in a rear-view mirror. The directional indicators are standard fare and add a classy touch to the package. The test unit came with the highly-advanced Matrix LED headlights which, at R14 234*, are a tad pricey, but once you use them, most other headlights' efforts seem pitiful by comparison. They're smart and totally automated, so you're unlikely to dazzle other road users.
Performance
While this is the entry-level TT with just 169 kW, it delivers enough shove to be interesting
Under the bonnet is the tried-and-tested EA888 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder motor. With peak outputs of 169 kW and 370 Nm, it promises brisk performance, which we were eager to exploit! While Audi's performance models are known for their prodigious grip (courtesy of the aforementioned quattro drivetrain), the 45 TFSI S tronic is one of the few entirely front-wheel-driven sporty offerings in the brand's line-up. Our test data indicated a 6.5-second 0-to-100 kph sprint time ( with launch control dialled in) and the TT completed the 1/4 mile in 14.42 seconds, which demonstrates that while the entry-level version can battle for traction off the line (as its front wheels scrabble for grip), there's no lack of in-gear acceleration. In Dynamic mode, the car emits lovely gearshift pops and bangs, which add some much-needed theatre to the otherwise generic engine note.
Even in entry-level guise, the TT has always been enjoyable to drive and when this 3rd-gen model was launched, it saw off more powerful rivals to win the Fun Car category of the 2015/16 #CarsAwards. It goes to show that power isn't everything – a sorted chassis, balanced suspension setup and well-tuned progressive steering make a great recipe for a driver's car. The 45 TFSI S tronic is not a scalpel-like sportscar, but feels it perennially poised and corners beautifully. Despite the front-wheel-drive setup, the little Audi only understeers appreciably after sanity- and bravery limits have been exceeded. You can press on easily and while there will certainly be faster hot hatches, it's hard to fault the forgiving handling traits of the TT.
Ride and comfort
The sporty seats of the Audi TT look and feel luxurious, and do a damn fine job of hugging you. Rear seats have almost no legroom sadly
The TT's dual nature is undoubtedly its strongest trait. Although the Ingolstadt-based brand's coupe is required to involve and delight its driver while performing spirited blasts along the coastline or on a deserted mountain pass on the odd occasions, it also, perhaps more importantly, needs to be a forgiving car to drive every day… Well, if you have zero aspirations to develop and indulge your "inner racing driver", you'll be delighted to read that the TT offers a sophisticated and refined ride quality. When you're plodding in traffic on a dreary morning on the way to work, the 45 TFSI S tronic offers a comfortable and cosy cabin; the seats cushion you nicely. Our test unit came with heated seats (a R5 800* option), which did a sterling job of negating the last of winter's clutches. Cleverly, the heating controls are integrated into the side vents – yet another excellent piece of design.
These 19-inch alloys are attractive and offer a good blend of performance and ride quality.
There are 3 alloy wheel designs to choose from, all of which are 19-inch in size. Our test unit's alloys were wrapped in 245/35 Bridgestone tyres, which offered fair grip and reasonably little road noise. When you task the TT to travel longer distances, you get the impression that Audi focused on the coupe's comfort and refinement. Indeed, the 45 TFSI S tronic can cover large swathes of tarmac over extended periods in an untiring fashion.
Interior design and practicality
Audi's Virtual Cockpit has been out for some time but it's still winning fans thanks to its slick interface and ease of use
Upon the introduction of the 3rd-gen TT, its cabin set a benchmark by doing away with the traditional central infotainment screen and utilising the digital instrument cluster (Audi's Virtual Cockpit) to display all the information a driver needs right in front of them (that may annoy the passenger, but it's not about them, it's about you and your car). What's more, the gorgeous turbine-style vents allow you to set the interior temperature and blower speeds. As for the rest of the cabin, it's a stunning example of minimalism and the optional aluminium cabin trim finish is well worth considering.
Despite its 2-door coupe body style, the 45 TFSI S tronic comes equipped with a pair of rear seats with belts, but we can't see anyone other than a toddler in a child seat being able to make use of them. They make for excellent additional storage compartments, but the boot is reasonably sized for a compact coupe, anyway. There's enough room for 2 nights' luggage (for you and your partner), which we confirmed during a weekend away.
The boot is a fair size – you may be pleasantly surprised by how much it can accommodate. Need more space? Put stuff on the rear seats.
The 45 TFSI S tronic's standard features list is reasonable, which is not always the case with German premium marques' wares, but you can spec yourself a really nice TT if you can afford it… Our test unit came optionally specified with the uprated Bang & Olufsen audio system, which produced a glorious sound (a must-have for audiophiles). Audi Drive Select (with its distinct driving modes) is now standard, as is the smartphone interface, which includes nice-to-haves such as Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility and 2 illuminated USB ports. Audi navigation, parking aid plus and electrically-adjustable front seats are standard too. Strangely, a reverse-view camera is not stock, but our vehicle had one (an extra R6 971*).
Price and warranty
The Audi TT Coupé 45 TFSI S tronic retails for R670 000 (*October 2019), which includes a 5-year/100 000 km Audi Freeway (maintenance) plan.
Verdict
For around R600k, it'd be easy to opt for a similarly-powered hatchback, but the Audi TT trumps them all when it comes to style and luxury.
Compact sportscars appear to be on the endangered-species list, but in the case of the Audi TT, unfairly so. While it's not the fastest small coupe, the 45 TFSI S tronic offers plenty of accessible performance, style, refinement and build quality… Why would you need to stretch your budget to the TTS? While so many people splurge on big-wheeled SUVs to make a statement, there is something distinguished, yet ever-playful, about the TT.
Should you buy one? It's hard to argue against the Volkswagen Golf GTI, which shares its underpinnings and powertrain with the 45 TFSI S tronic. It has the advantage of being a practical 5-door hatchback, but it doesn't quite have the marquee value/snob appeal of the Audi. Whereas the GTI is mainstream, the TT will appeal to those who value individualism and understatement – it could serve as a tasteful testament to their success…
You'll love the Audi's timeless looks, its advanced digital user interface and the gorgeous, minimalist cabin that exudes quality. Given its tight-fitting packaging, the TT is not a chore to drive daily, plus it offers the convenience of a self-shifting transmission and reasonable fuel economy. However, when the mood takes you (and road conditions permit), you can select Dynamic mode, make the transmission bang down a cog or 2, and enjoy a sufficiently wieldy and energising driving experience. If ever a model range has made a strong case for its entry-level derivative, the TT is it.
Citroen Returns to South Africa
French brand Citroen makes a return to South Africa and with it comes 3 new products and a comprehensive after-sales warranty. Let's see what's on offer.
After a short absence, Citroen makes a comeback to South Africa. When the announcement came back in December 2016 that the focus would be on Peugeot and Citroen was to be sacrificed, petrolheads and customers were a bit disappointed. Citroen's offerings were quirky, but the cars were generally of good quality and drove nicely. The issues were in the aftersales department where every French car cliche was bandied about.
Naturally, SA consumers will be extremely wary and cautious of Citroen after-sales, despite its return and arsenal of fresh product. Dubbed Citroen Serenity, each new Citroen will come with a 5-year/100 000km warranty service plan as well as roadside assistance. A courtesy car, competitively priced parts basket, microdots, complimentary vehicle health check as well as licence renewal reminder are also thrown in as additional value. You'll be servicing them at Peugeot dealerships as the 2 brands will be again sharing retail space.
What's New?
From the brand relaunch, there'll be 3 products offered to the South African market. It appears they're being pitched at a youthful market and have a funky image to them. Kicking off the range is the Citroen C3, a Polo-sized compact hatchback. Available in 2 levels of trim (Feel and Shine) with 2 petrol engine choices, the C3 comes to market priced aggressively. The 1.2 PureTech engine delivers 60 kW and 118 Nm, and is mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox. The other C3 boasts a 1.2 PureTech Turbo motor with 81 kW and 205 Nm, and features a 6-speed automatic transmission.
The C3 Aircross makes do with the 81 kW / 205 Nm PureTech Turbo motor and is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. It is also available in 2 levels of trim (Feel and Shine). With some offroad cladding and raised ground clearance, it's essentially an SUV version of the C3.
Finally, for those wanting big space and luxury, there's the C5 Aircross. Again, it's available in 2 levels of trim (Feel and Shine), but this time it boasts the 1.6-litre THP turbocharged petrol engine with 121 kW and 240 Nm, and has a 6-speed automatic transmission.
More photos of the soon-to-be-launched BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe have been released and we're expecting a full reveal sometime this week.
BMW has teased a few more photos of the forthcoming 2 Series Gran Coupe and we believe a full reveal is due any day now. The 4-door compact coupe will share a lot with the current 1 Series, itself about to be launched in South Africa. We suspect most of the latter's engines will be carried over too, with an M235i xDrive sitting at the top of the pile. With a 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder producing 225 kW and 450 Nm, it'll be brisk and should be able to hit 100 kph in under 5 seconds.
The compact premium coupe is aimed at those wanting something different and something smaller than the current 3 Series. The chassis is engineered for front-wheel drive, but the flagship version will feature xDrive. The teaser images show off the aggressive front end as well as some interesting tail lights at the rear. These lights look a lot like they're from the X4 – which is a compliment, believe it or not!
We'll update this post when the all-new BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe is revealed in its entirety.
Range Rover Velar SVAutobiography (2019) Launch Review
The SVAutobiography simultaneously adds further luxury, as well as 405 kW of supercharged V8 muscle, to the award-winning Range Rover Velar. We headed upcountry to race it against a train… obviously!
It's been said that on the day the 2nd-ever automobile was built, motor racing was born. And since then, car enthusiasts have looked for any reason to race anything on wheels. It's no surprise, then, that in 1930, the Rover Light Six garnered media acclaim by being the first car to beat a luxury train from St Raphael to Calais at an average speed of about 60 kph. That’s 1 200 km in just 20 hours – impressive even by today's standards!
Now, almost 90 years later, Range Rover has released the Velar SVAutobiography, which is a potent performance SUV in anyone's book. I headed to Pretoria to pit the newcomer from Solihull against its forebears' railroad rival and relive the glory days of rail-versus-automobile racing.
Step into luxury
The Velar versus Rovos rail – a classic race for the ages.
To step onto the Rovos Rail, a luxury train that caters to the whims of its upper-crust clients, was like stepping into a time where luxury-train travel was the premium mode of transport. Of course, these days, "luxury travel" takes on a whole new meaning and Range Rover caters for that market.
The Velar's interior, which is trimmed in sumptuous twin-stitched, perforated and quilted Windsor leather, is the model of modern luxury. Unlike the Range Rover's slightly more hardcore cousin, the Jaguar F-Pace SVR, the SVAutobiography's (heated and cooled) front seats are supportive and firm, yet comfortable enough for long-distance travel and offer 20 ways of electrical adjustment, so it's easy to find the perfect driving position.
The massage function is now a standard feature and other changes include the sports multifunction steering wheel, which is equipped with a pair of very intuitive rotary selectors through which, inter alia, Range Rover’s Touch Pro Duo system can be operated.
The same award-winning design
Red brake calipers sit inside the special, 22-inch rims.
From the outside, the Velar looks even more impressive than the Launch Edition. Twenty-one-inch wheels are standard, but massive 22-inch wheels (shod with 265-profile tyres) are optionally available. At the rear, the exhaust has been lightened by 3.5 kg per side and the quad tailpipe outlets are integrated with the SUV's rear bumper design. The brakes, developed by Brembo, are of larger diameter to provide extra stopping power. The red brake callipers also feature Land Rover lettering, but for those who want something a bit more discreet, gloss black callipers are also available.
The obsession with detail continues underneath the car: the SVAutobiography's undertray is to have been redesigned to allow for better airflow and overall stability at high speeds. The bumpers, grille and side mouldings have also been slightly tweaked to differentiate the flagship derivatives from the already striking “Standard” Velar. What's more, the SVAutobiography is available in half a dozen incredibly striking colours…
That engine
Even with 405 kW, there are still off-road modes available.
The biggest change is the inclusion of the stonking supercharged 5.0-litre V8 engine (the same as found in the F-Type R) and it produces peak outputs of 405 kW and a more-than-adequate 680 Nm. Even with the active-exhaust button deactivated, a prod of the throttle prompts a gloriously old-school V8 rumble, with the supercharger providing backup vocals. The noise is so intoxicating that I found myself stomping the accelerator repeatedly just to enjoy the ear-massaging soundtrack. The engine emits a melange of cracks and pops as the transmission shuffles through its 8 forward gears and even with the exhaust flap closed, it's still quite a loud car. At cruising speeds, however, the noise is never intrusive or boomy.
What is it like to drive?
The SVAutobiography is said to dispatch the 0-100 kph sprint in 4.5 seconds and, given the right piece of tarmac, it’ll reach a top speed of 274 kph. I tried a few standing starts and the car readily catapulted to the national speed limit with dismissive ease. This Velar seems to distort one's sensation of speed; the force with which you're pressed into those cosseting seats provides the best indication of how much throttle input you are deploying.
The calibrations for the AWD system, active rear-locking differential, transmission shift pattern, steering response and air-suspension have been tweaked and tuned specifically for this SVAutobiography (Dynamic Edition). It is said engineers at Land Rover's Special Vehicle Operations spent 63 900 hours fine-tuning the unique calibration to optimise the ride, handling and responsiveness. And responsive is exactly what this juggernaut is.
The supercharged V8 engine has become synonymous with guttural sound and stupendous throttle response.
I found the optional 265/22 tyres tracked unevenly over undulations on roads that weren't perfectly smooth. In my opinion, the smaller 21-inch wheel and tyre combination would be better suited for those willing to forego some outright kerb appeal in favour of a more forgiving ride quality.
The Velar SVAutobiography also feels like it has "itchy feet" when cruising at the speed limit. Call it an infantile notion, but this derivative seems to inspire the desire to travel at lofty speeds, so potential buyers may need to set up a fund for the slew of speeding fines that they're likely to incur.
Verdict
The quad tailpipes have been lightened by 3.5 kg per side for better performance.
At R1 743 325, the Range Rover is pricey, but less so than a Porsche Cayenne Turbo, mind you. However, BMW is about to flood the market with X5/X6 50i models, but thanks to a limited run of just 1 year, the SVAutobiogrpahy promises an element of exclusivity above and beyond the badge.
This head-turner of a Velar is not as discreet as other Range Rovers – this is the one you buy to be seen in. And, with those bite-the-back-of-your- hand looks and a goosebump-inducing soundtrack, you won't only be seen when you pull into the train station… you most certainly will be heard too.
Some of the rarest (and quirkiest) cars in Johannesburg journeyed to the Cars.co.za offices in Bedfordview this past Sunday to enjoy a morning of petrolheaded fun. As ever, this SentiMETAL meet delivered a number of surprise attendees!
Photos by Vaughn Humphreys and Hannes Oosthuizen
Following the recent record meet in Cape Town, which saw more than 120 cars come together, much was expected of the second Johannesburg SentiMETAL meet and it didn't disappoint. The company's HQ was the designated meeting spot and the more than 100 parking bays quickly filled with a staggeringly diverse selection of cars. The SentiMETAL Opel Kadett Superboss and Porsche Cayman R were there to receive to guests, and first to arrive was none other than the Opel's old-time foe, a beautiful white BMW (E30) 325iS (Gusheshe). Ultimately no fewer than 4 Superbosses and 3 Gusheshes participated in the event, illustrating once again the rising cult following of these cars.
Older cars started making their appearance too, with a beautiful Alfa Romeo GT Junior followed by a baby-blue Porsche 356 driven by former CAR Magazine editor, John Bentley. Porsche was well represented, with numerous examples of its 911 (including a stunning 930 Carrera 3.2 and a 964 Turbo), but the transaxle generation was there too, in the shapes of a neat 924 and 928.
Centre of attention – this immaculate BMW (E28) M5 caused many a heart to flutter. Photo by Vaughn Humphreys
But the brand with the biggest presence was undoubtedly BMW. The Bimmer enthusiasts arrived in their droves, in anything from 2002 ti's, to various E30 variants, E36 M3s, a stunning silver E46 M3 and very rare M5 Tourings (E34 and E61). A classic red E24 6 Series and an immaculate E28 M5 also turned many heads.
Speaking of rare German metal… an elegantly attired family showed up in a Mercedes-Benz (W124) E36 AMG Convertible, a car we had never seen in the metal before. Parked not far from the E36, were 3 Italian cars from the '80s that you are unlikely to ever see on South African roads – a Lancia Thema 8.32, Gamma Berlina 2500ie and a Maserati Quattroporte from 1984. The Thema 8.32 was quite a hyped car back in the day, as one of the first genuine supersaloons it featured a V8 engine borrowed from the Ferrari 308 and a rear wing which deployed automatically (unheard of at the time of its launch).
Icons wherever you look – a Lamborghini Diablo flanks a Ford Mustang fastback. Photo by Vaughn Humphreys
But that's not all that Team Italy had to offer… A silver Lamborghini Diablo rolled in, causing many a guest to choke on their croissants. Following soon after was an immaculate Alfa Romeo GTV6 2.5, rare Alfa Romeo 159i and a cute little Fiat 500 Giardiniera (station wagon), the latter with a beautifully presented picnic basket in the boot. Oh, and then there was a race-ready-looking replica of a Fiat 131 Abarth, as well as 2 Maserati GranSports.
Those with an interest in American muscle were drawn to a brutal-looking Chevrolet Camaro Z28 with a massive bonnet bulge, bright-orange Pontiac GTO and a stunning candy-apple red Camaro. And for the fans of British? Well, an Ariel Atom is always a crowd-puller, and Gavin Spiller's racing Rover SD1 also drew plenty of attention.
Cute wagon pairing – Austin Mini and a Fiat 500 Giardiniera. Photo by Vaughn Humphreys
Inbetween ogling the machines on display, guests could visit the Cars.co.za coffee shop for refreshments, to catch up on the Rugby or Moto GP and peruse some of the SentiMETAL series of merchandise. Those participants keen to stretch their cars' legs departed at 11 o'clock for a leisurely drive to Muldersdrift and lunch.
"We want to be a home for the South African car lover, so to see guys show up with the families, and enjoy the day together was very gratifying," said Cars.co.za's Hannes Oosthuizen, SentiMETAL project manager. "In a way these meets are similar to what you'll see at RadWood car meets in the US, and more recently in the UK. It's relaxed, without pretence or politics and just focused on the shared passion for cars," Oosthuizen said. "That's why, as at this SentiMETAL meet, you're likely to see something like a Diablo or Porsche 356 parked within spitting distance of a tastefully modded Datsun 280 ZX and a Japanese cult icon, the Toyota AE86 Trueno."
The next SentiMETAL Meet & OutRun is scheduled for Cape Town in mid-November.
