Hyundai 45 EV Concept Fully Revealed

Hyundai has revealed its latest electric concept that pays homage to its history, but also shows how the brand will change going forward. Let's see what it's all about.

The Hyundai 45 EV Concept pays tribute to the Hyundai Pony Concept Coupe from 1974. The new EV shows how the brand plans to move forward focusing on electrification, autonomous technologies and design.

The retro design of the new model shows a new direction for Hyundai design and the 45-degree angles at the front and rear give the car its name. The wing mirrors have been entirely removed and replaced with a camera monitoring system that provides a clearer and wider view. The cameras also aid in some of the vehicles autonomous abilities.

Moving inside the 45 still looks extremely concepty and far from production-ready. It also looks more like a lounge than an actual vehicle cockpit, although Hyundai admits it did take some inspiration from furniture design. Much of the new design is made possible by the electric drivetrain which has allowed the designers to repackage the passenger compartment. Front-seat passengers can interact with the infotainment system via a projection-beam interface. This replaces a single central touchscreen with a series of displays and functions integrated into the dashboard itself.

Hyundai hasn't yet released any of the powertrain details on the 45 yet but mentions that the batteries in 45 are set throughout the car’s ‘skateboard floor.’ This creates a flat floor and opens up the interior to a more radical layout where the chairs can swivel inwards and outwards.

Volkswagen ID3 Goes Official

The long-awaited entry from Volkswagen into the all-electric space has finally been revealed. Here's the Volkswagen ID3.

Unveiled at the Volkswagen Group Night on the eve of the 2019 Frankfurt Motor Show, the Volkswagen ID3 has been eagerly anticipated. With over 30 000 preorders, the hype is real.

At first glance, the looks are unmistakably Volkswagen, but with a fresh and unique appeal. Unlike Volkswagen's other electric offerings which were petrol-powered vehicles with electric upgrades, this is a pure electric vehicle using the Group's MEB platform. The Volkswagen ID3 is 4 261mm long and 1 809mm wide – very similar proportions to the current Volkswagen Golf.

With outputs of 150 kW and 310 Nm, the Volkswagen ID3 should be brisk. Performance figures haven't been announced, but we estimate it should be good for a sub-7 second sprint to 100 km. It also boasts rear-wheel drive.

In terms of charging, Volkswagen says that there are different variations of the ID3, with different ranges. The top-spec model will have 550 km of range, while the entry-level boasts 330 km. Mid-spec ID3 has 420 km of range. Using a high-powered charger, you can get 290 km in just 30 minutes.

Inside, the cabin is futuristic and modern. It boasts impressive levels of tech too, like an augmented reality head-up display which projects info onto the windscreen. First thoughts suggest a clean and fuss-free cabin, with elements from a smartphone in terms of functionality and user experience. There's a 10-inch infotainment screen which features gesture control as well as voice control. With the batteries located on the floor, cabin space is good, while the boot is rated at 385 litres.

The ID3 is expected to arrive in South Africa late in 2021 as the VW group plans out its strategy regarding charging infrastructure.

All-New Yaris to use Toyota TNGA platform

Toyota has shown off the platform which will form the foundation of the next-generation Yaris. Here's why the new Toyota Yaris will be fun and refined to drive.

The Japanese brand released some images detailing the next-generation of Yaris. Rolling on the new GA-B platform which forms part of the TNGA architecture, the next-generation Yaris will have a large focus on handling. Our past experience with the TNGA platforms have been overwhelmingly positive. Our first taste came from the C-HR crossover which handled surprisingly elegantly for an SUV. The real cream was in the Toyota Corolla hatch which combined handling prowess and refinement beautifully.

The rigid underbody also features an interesting driving position, with the driver sitting low and towards the middle of the car. There's also a focus on a lower centre of gravity and a more hands-on involving driving position. Some clever packaging solutions mean the little Yaris will also feature the most spacious cabin.

Our spyshots show an aggressive-looking mule undergoing some rigorous testing on the Nurburgring. Given the red livery, we're led to believe there will be a sporty version, with some variety of GR badging – check them out here.

Toyota says its new GA-B underpinnings can spawn different vehicles of varying sizes and body styles due to its adjustability. Given the popularity of SUVs, it would not surprise us in the least to see an SUV smaller than the C-HR making an eventual entrance.

Is this the all-new Toyota Yaris hot hatch using the TNGA platform?

Volkswagen SA has built 200 000 new Polos

The Volkswagen Group SA plant in Uitenhage has produced its 200 000th new Polo. What an achievement!

The facility in Uitenhage has been churning out various Polo derivatives for 23 years and to date, over 1 million vehicles have been exported. In recognition of the tremendous achievement, Volkswagen has been named as Exporter of the Year three times!

As for the latest iteration of the Volkswagen Polo, the facility has assembled over 200 000 units so far with 153 582 heading for overseas markets, while the remaining 46 418 headed for SA dealerships. Impressively, since 1994, the plant has assembled 1 053 600 vehicles purely for the export market. There's no sign of any tapering off either, as the facilities continues to churn out Polo, Polo Vivo and the Polo GTI. The plant has manufactured 110 265 vehicles between January and August 2019, which includes the Polo, Polo Vivo and Polo GTI.

“This milestone could not have been achieved without the dedication of our employees,” said Thomas Schaefer, Volkswagen Group South Africa Chairman and Managing Director. “Our success, both locally and overseas, benefits our workforce and the local economy. We intend to keep achieving these milestones and contributing to the economy of Nelson Mandela Bay.”

Ferrari 812 GTS Unveiled

Ferrari has dropped the top of its 812 and created what it's claiming to be the most powerful production spider. Meet the 812 GTS.

Exactly 50 years on from the debut of the last spider in the Ferrari range to sport a front-mounted V12, the Ferrari 812 GTS hails a triumphant return for a model type that has played a pivotal role in the marque's history since its foundation.

Powered by a 6.5-litre V12, the 812 GTS produces an insane 588 kW and 718 Nm. With a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox, it's claimed to blitz to 100 kph in under 3 seconds, will do 0-200 kph in 8.3 seconds and will max out at over 340 kph. Fuel consumption is irrelevant if you're earning the kind of money to afford one of these beauties, but there is a 92 litre fuel tank, so you should be able to cover some distance before needing to refuel.

The retractable hard top can open in just 14 seconds at speeds of up to 45 kph and the clever roof mechanism has packaging benefits, meaning a larger boot capacity.

New Bugatti Chiron Sport 300+ Celebrates Speed Milestone

Just over a week ago, we watched the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport ‘Longtail’ break the 300 mph (482.8 kph) barrier which is a phenomenal achievement and now, to celebrate, Bugatti has revealed a limited-edition Chiron Super Sport 300+.

Only 30 will be built for customers around the world and while the car used for the blistering run (driven by Andy Wallace) was somewhat modified with an extended ‘longtail’ body, roll cage and lots of computer and timing equipment, the road-going version will forego this hardware to make the car more user-friendly. The production car will also have a passenger seat and ride height will be standard, unlike the prototype.

Featuring extensive use of carbon fibre and bright orange stripes, the Chiron Super Sport 300+ packs a mighty punch of 1 177 kW from its 8.0-litre W16 engine. The production version will also be fitted with a speed limiter that will cap the top speed at 440 kph… Why even bother, right?

The Chiron Super Sport 300+ will be on display at the Frankfurt Motor Show this week and is priced at around $3.9 million or R58 million.

Watch the video below to watch the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport ‘Longtail’ break the 300 mph barrier.

Ferrari F8 Goes Soft Around The Top

Ferrari has made its mid-engined V8 supercar heavier, by taking off its roof.

The new F8 Spider is a folding soft-top version of the Tributo and offers immense performance for an open-topped car.

Although the F8 Spider than a Tributo coupe, by 70 kg (due to structural reinforcement countering reduces roof rigidity), it is lighter than its predecessor. Ferrari’s 488 Spider was 20 kg heavier than this new V8 open-top Ferrari.

The F8 Spider operates an electrically retractable fabric roof, which takes only 14 seconds to stow in the rear deck area. Ferrari’s engineers had to apply a slight redesign of the F8’s aft cover panels to accommodate the folding fabric roof.

Most of the trick aero bits applied to the Tributo are applied to this new F8 Spider, which totals 10% gain in drag efficiency.

Powering the F8 Spider is Ferrari’s turbocharged 3.9-litre V8 engine. With an intake system and Inconel exhausts manifold from the 488 Challenge competition car, this F8 Spider does not lack for potency.

The V8 engine boosts 530 kW, supported by 770 Nm of torque. Those outputs turn the rear wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. It ranks as a terrifically quick car, capable of 0-100 kph in 2.9 seconds and a top speed of 340 kph – preferably with the roof in place.

Ferrari’s version 6.1 slip-angle software balances performance by mastering all the intervention and driver-assist systems to optimise performance without imperilling safety.

A specific pint of appeal concerning this new F8 Spider, as has been the case with many mid-engined Ferrari soft-tops before, is that it allows occupants more direct exposure to the acoustic drama of the brand’s engines.

The service interval recommendation for this new Ferrari are every 20 000km and it comes with a comprehensive seven-year mechanical maintenance plan. Ferrari expect to deliver its new F8 Spider to customers by late 2019.

Spy Shots: 2021 Hyundai Tucson

Our spy photographers have snapped a new-generation Hyundai Tucson undergoing some testing. Here's what we know so far.

While the vehicle is still heavily camouflaged, we can get some semblance of the frontal design. The entire front facia looks modern and adopts the latest Hyundai design language. Think of the Kona's current front for some idea of what the next-generation Tucson will resemble.

Given the massive camo on the back of the car, we suspect that the rear has been completely reworked and there's renewed focus on cabin space for rear passengers and boot space. It's too early to talk about powertrains, but we would be surprised if there was not some of electrification thrown into some models. The global market is lapping up SUVs at an impressive rate and this segment, in particular, is jampacked with competitors such as the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Volkswagen Tiguan to name but a few.

Audi A5 and S5 Range Updated for 2020

The Audi A5 Coupe, A5 Sportback as well as the S5 Coupe and S5 Sportback have received some mild updates. Here's what you need to know.

The changes range from some visual tweaks giving the cars a newer look, to an update to the MMI infotainment system. There's also the introduction of mild hybrid technology which is claimed to reduce consumption. When it comes to the performance versions, the S5 now features a TDI motor with an electrically-powered compressor and 48-volt main electrical system.

Visually, all A5 models now roll off the line with LED headlights as standard fittings, but you can optionally fit the Matrix LED lights. Audi Europe is offering the A5 range in 2 optional lines of trim: advanced and S line.

Inside, the updated MMI system which we first experienced in the A1, Q3 and Q8 makes its way into the A5. It's a crisp and intuitive setup, and brings the A5 up to date with the rest of the Audi portfolio.

In terms of powertrain, the updated A5 models are available in Europe with the lowest output being 120 kW. There are no manual transmissions, with a 7-speed S tronic or an 8-speed tiptronic doing duty. Many of the A5 engines will feature mild hybrid system (MHEV) technology. Audi claims it works with a belt alternator starter, which is connected to the crankshaft to recover energy during deceleration and stores this in a compact lithium-ion battery. With the 4-cylinder engines, the MHEV system is integrated into the 12-volt electrical system and into a new 48-volt main electrical system in the S TDI models. In the S5, Audi claims fuel consumption is reduced by up to 0.4 liters per 100 kilometers.

Petrolheads will be most interested in the S5 TDI. With 255 kW and 700 Nm headed to all 4 wheels, the S5 has impressive power claims. The 0-100 kph sprint is completed in under 5 seconds and it'll run to a top speed of 250 kph. In other markets, the S5 and S5 Sportback will be offered with a turbocharged petrol engine with 260 kW and 500 Nm, enabling it to hit 100 kph in 4.7 seconds.

High-spec Suzuki Ertiga GLX for SA

The new Ertiga gains another derivative in the form of the GLX which boasts a range of additional exterior and interior features. See details and pricing below…

Suzuki’s latest Ertiga is one of the best 7-seat MPV’s on offer in South Africa and a higher-specification GLX derivative no joins the local lineup with host of extra features that buyers might appreciate.

The Ertiga GLX is based on the GL trim but adds additional features such as chrome door handles and rear chrome garnishes while the GLX also rides on 15-inch alloy wheels. A rearview camera is also fitted. Front and rear mud flaps are fitted as well as front fog lights. At the rear, a curved LED light strip is another key differentiator for the GLX.

Wood-grain trim has been added to the Ertiga GLX in an effort to boost perceived interior quality.

Inside, Suzuki has fitted a new wood-grain trim while the driver seat now boasts height adjustment. The new bin in the centre console also now serves as an armrest for the driver and front passenger. Features such as keylees access, Start/Stop button and automatic climate control is also standard on the Ertiga GLX.

More noticeably, the Ertiga GLX is fitted with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system which is Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible. Also, a second 4.2-inch multi-information display has been added to the instrument cluster to display information such as average fuel consumption, driving range, power and torque delivery, and fuel consumption and speed.

Safety kit includes 2 front airbags and ABS with EBD.

In terms of engine power, the Ertiga GLX is fitted with a naturally-aspirated 1.5-litre petrol engine with 77 kW and 138 Nm of torque and is offered both manual and automatic transmissions. Fuel consumption is claimed at 6.2 L/100km.

Suzuki Ertiga – Price in SA

Ertiga 1.5 GA (manual) – R216 900

Ertiga 1.5 GL (manual) – R241 900

Ertiga 1.5 GL (auto) – R256 900

Ertiga 1.5 GLX (manual) – R267 900

Ertiga 1.5 GLX (auto) – R282 900

The Ertiga GLX is sold with an extended 4-year / 60 000 km service plan as well as Suzuki’s promotional 5-year / 200 000 km mechanical warranty.

Buy a new or used Suzuki Ertiga on Cars.co.za

Hyundai 45 EV Concept Fully Revealed

Hyundai has revealed its latest electric concept that pays homage to its history, but also shows how the brand will change going forward. Let's see what it's all about.

Related content

Volkswagen ID3 Goes Official

The long-awaited entry from Volkswagen into the all-electric space has finally been revealed. Here's the Volkswagen ID3.

Further Reading

All-New Yaris to use Toyota TNGA platform

Toyota has shown off the platform which will form the foundation of the next-generation Yaris. Here's why the new Toyota Yaris will be fun and refined to drive.

Further Reading

Volkswagen SA has built 200 000 new Polos

The Volkswagen Group SA plant in Uitenhage has produced its 200 000th new Polo. What an achievement!

Further Reading

Ferrari 812 GTS Unveiled

Ferrari has dropped the top of its 812 and created what it's claiming to be the most powerful production spider. Meet the 812 GTS.

Further Reading

New Bugatti Chiron Sport 300+ Celebrates Speed Milestone

Just over a week ago, we watched the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport ‘Longtail’ break the 300 mph (482.8 kph) barrier which is a phenomenal achievement and now, to celebrate, Bugatti has revealed a limited-edition Chiron Super Sport 300+.

Related content

Ferrari F8 Goes Soft Around The Top

Ferrari has made its mid-engined V8 supercar heavier, by taking off its roof.

Related content

Spy Shots: 2021 Hyundai Tucson

Our spy photographers have snapped a new-generation Hyundai Tucson undergoing some testing. Here's what we know so far.

Further Reading

Audi A5 and S5 Range Updated for 2020

The Audi A5 Coupe, A5 Sportback as well as the S5 Coupe and S5 Sportback have received some mild updates. Here's what you need to know.

Further Reading

High-spec Suzuki Ertiga GLX for SA

The new Ertiga gains another derivative in the form of the GLX which boasts a range of additional exterior and interior features. See details and pricing below…

Suzuki Ertiga – Price in SA

Related Content