Jaguar has set a new record at the Nürburgring Nordschleife with the Jaguar XE SV Project 8 becoming the fastest four-door sedan in production-intent specification to lap the famous circuit.
The XE SV Project 8, developed by Jaguar’s Special Vehicle Operations (SVO), now holds the record as the fastest 4-door sedan with production intent to lap the famous Nürburgring Nordschleife in Germany. Only 300 examples of the XE SV Project 8 are slated for production and all units will be in left-hand drive only, which means it will not be sold in South Africa.
The 441 kW / 700 Nm XE SV Project 8 prototype is powered by a supercharged 5.0-litre V8 capable of zero to 100 kph in 3.7 seconds with a top speed of 322 kph. The XE SV Project 8 prototype lapped The Ring in a blistering time of 7:21.2, bettering the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio’s previous record by almost 11 seconds!
Mark Stanton, SVO Director, said “The SVO design and engineering team’s mission was to create the most track-focused road-legal Jaguar in history – not only the fastest, but also the most agile. As a result, only the roof and front door skins of Project 8’s body are carried-over unaltered from XE and 75 per cent of its mechanical hardware is new. This astonishing Nürburgring Nordschleife record validates the success of such extensive changes.”
John Edwards, Jaguar Land Rover Special Operations Managing Director, said “SVO exists to push the boundaries of performance, luxury and all-terrain capability. The hand-assembled XE SV Project 8 takes that principle to the limit, extracting supercar-beating performance from Jaguar’s most compact four-door sedan. The Nürburgring Nordschleife record underlines our commitment to deliver the most extreme Jaguar ever to Project 8 clients, who will soon experience this sensational sedan for themselves.”
Land Rover is showing its range-topping Range Rover SVAutobiography at the LA Motor Show and it’s coming to South Africa in 2018.
The mighty Range Rover recently received a facelift with numerous exterior and interior changes being implemented. Jaguar is using the LA Motor Show to showcase a range of products including the ultra-luxurious Range Rover SVAutobiography. Here is some vital information for this range-topping Range Rover.
Key Features
Rear passengers travel in absolute comfort with reclining rear seats and various massage functions. Is this the ultimate luxury SUV?
The SVAutobiography will be offered in long-wheelbase form and features executive class rear seats for ultimate comfort. The seats can recline by 40 degrees and are 22-way adjustable with heated calf and foot rests as well as various massage functions including a hot stone massage to keep passengers relaxed. Another fancy feature is the ability for the passengers to close the rear doors electronically using buttons placed on the rear console.
Rear passenger convenience is further enhanced with electrically deployable rear tables and entertainment screens with 4G WiFi connectivity. There’s also a concealed refrigerator between the two rear seats that accommodate 600 ml bottles.
Loading of long items is made easier with a folding rear seat and customers can also choose to have an electrically deployable veneered loadspace floor to facilitate the loading process.
Up front the driver has access to a Touch Pro Duo infotainment system comprising two, high-definition 10-inch screens, as seen on the recently introduced Range Rover Velar. The system is easy and intuitive to use and information can be swiped from one screen to another. A classy touch is the Zenith clock on the rear centre console, inspired by the Elite 6150 watch.
Range Rover Engines
The SVAutobiography offers 415 kW and 700 Nm from its updated supercharged 5.0-litre V8 engine.
A number of powertrain options are on offer for the latest Range Rover, including a new plug-in hybrid model called the P400e, combining a 221 kW, 4-cylinder 2.0-litre petrol engine coupled with an 85 kW electric motor and a 13.1 kWh high-voltage lithium-ion battery to produce total outputs of 297 kW and 640 Nm of torque. The new P400e has a pure-electric range of 51 km.
There will also be 2 diesel engine options available including a 190 kW 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 and a more powerful 249 kW 4.4-litre supercharged V8 diesel engine. A next-generation supercharged 5.0-litre V8 petrol engine with 386 kW (previously 375 kW) will be offered as well as a supercharged 3.0-litre V6 engine with either 250 kW or 280 kW.
The Range Rover SVAutobiography Dynamic is the most powerful Range Rover on offer with its upgraded 5.0-litre supercharged V8 engine with 415 kW and 700 Nm of torque.
Local pricing and specification will be confirmed closer to it launch in 2018.
Mitsubishi has introduced a striking limited edition Triton Xtreme in South Africa! Take a look at what the Triton Xtreme has to offer.
Using feedback from its customers, Mitsubishi South Africa welcomes a new limited edition Triton Xtreme double-cab bakkie to market in South Africa. Only 50 examples of the Triton Xtreme are available in either 4×2 or 4×4 double-cab guise.
"This Xtreme Limited Edition is a local development, based on customer research from the launch of the new Triton earlier this year. With this new limited edition derivative, we offer traditional bakkie lovers a customised bakkie developed to their personal taste" says says Nic Campbell, General Manager of Mitsubishi Motors South Africa (MMSA).
Key features
Protective cladding on the Triton Xtreme will help prevent damage while on the 4×4 track while also providing a unique look.
The Triton Xtreme wears a striking body kit which includes a range of additional features and accessories worth R60 000. The factory-installed body kit, however, will only cost buyers R20 000 over and above the listed retail price of the Triton double-cab it is fitted to.
Notable features of the body kit include:
Bonnet guards
Grille and fog lamp covers
Front and rear light guards
Wheel arch covers
Front and rear door handle protection covers
Triton branded scuff plates
Heavy-duty rubber mats
Tonneau cover
Style bar
Tailgate cover
Fuel flap cover
Black and chrome alloy wheels
Cooper Adventurer All-terrain tyres
"Triton is known for offering a lot of added-value with many additional features included at no cost as part of its standard specifications level. Offering a new bakkie owner a customised, limited edition bakkie with a high level of standard specification included in the base retail price, lets the Triton Xtreme not only stand out as an extreme physical competitor, but also a great value purchase," states Campbell.
The Triton XTreme is powered by a 2.4-litre turbodiesel engine with 133 kW and 430 Nm of torque in both 4×2 and 4×4 guise. The Triton Xtreme 4×4 derivatives can be had with either a manual or automatic transmission.
"The Xtreme package includes some of the highest-cost additions new owners often opt for when they order their new vehicles, but now form part of the latest special-edition Triton Xtreme Double Cab at a fraction of the cost," concludes Campbell. "All fitments are done and quality-checked by Mitsubishi SA, using imported body kits, which means all the additional Xtreme accessories are covered by the original manufacturer's factory warranty."
Mitsubishi Triton Xtreme – Price in South Africa
Mitsubishi Triton Xtreme 2.4 DC 4×2 M/T – R499 995
Mitsubishi Triton Xtreme 2.4 DC 4×4 M/T – R559 995
Mitsubishi Triton Xtreme 2.4 DC 4×4 A/T – R579 995
The Mitsubishi Triton Xtreme is sold with a 3-year/100 000km warranty and a 5-year/90 000km service plan.
What makes the Volvo S90 D5 R-Design a worthy contender in the Executive Sedan category of the 2017/18 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards – powered by WesBank? We investigate…
Volvo is on the comeback trail and after its big XC90 SUV brother trounced the German regulars, we figured that the S90 sedan may be able to pull off a similar coup in the sedan market. The S90 brings luxury, refinement, credible performance and semi-autonomous capability to the table and this D5 R-Design derivative is a particularly enticing offering in this segment. Can the S90 conquer all in the Executive Sedan category?
3 Reasons Why Volvo S90 D5 R-Design is a #CarsAwards Finalist
1. Strong performer
The long-held assumption that a 6- or 8-cylinder motor is required to propel a premium sedan along has been smashed by Volvo's 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine. It's a size more suited to cars half its size, but this plucky 2.0-litre powerplant pushes out tidy outputs of 173 kW and 480 Nm resulting in strong performance. Both turbochargers are supplemented by a smart system which fires compressed air into the turbo housing to minimise lag. Volvo claims its diesel-powered S90 will sip 4.8 L/100 km on the combined cycle.
2. Pleasing driving dynamics
The S90 is all-wheel driven, offering additional traction in wet/slippery conditions and Volvo has opted for a luxury driving experience as opposed to a sportier one. Brisk, yet comfortable cruising is this car's forte.
The steering arrangement is deserving of praise as it feels true and direct, but still with a focus on comfort. It has a fair degree of weight to it, which befits the S90's the big, luxury sedan persona to a tee. It's light enough to make low-speed tight parking manoeuvres less stressful, yet heavy enough to let you know you're at the tiller of something substantial.
3. Safe and packed with tech
It is palpably apparent that Volvo is determined to woo potential customers with a bedazzling array of safety features and modern technology. Apart from the impressive tablet-like touchscreen, this S90 features Pilot Assist, which, according to the firm, "is a semi-autonomous driving assistance system” which manages acceleration, braking and steering at speeds of up to 130 kph. The bestuse for this tech is in bumper-to-bumper traffic.
Other notable safety features includes Intellisafe with City Safety to detect pedestrians, cyclists and animals, run-off-road mitigation, auto braking in intersections for oncoming traffic, front collision warning with full auto brake as well as lane-keeping aid, lane departure warning and driver alert control, making this S90 one of the safest cars on the road.
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Once one of the most popular vehicles in its segment in South Africa, Ford's Kuga is these days remembered for less desirable traits. With this facelifted version, Ford will hope that South Africans are willing to forgive the fire-related incidents (and subsequent recalls) of some of the previous-generation derivatives. Does the Kuga deserve another chance?
We like: Excellent value for money, engine performance/economy balance, standard features, ride/handling
We don’t like: Outdated facia design/ergonomics, not as spacious as some rivals
Alternatives
Something Germanic and "near-premium":Volkswagen's Tiguan, in 2.0TDI Comfortline trim, can be had for about R35 000 more. For the money you get fewer fancy features, and the VW doesn't have niceties such as leather upholstery or heated seats. In Comfortline-spec it also lacks the visual wow factor of the costlier (add about R20k) R-line version. While it offers less power on paper, performance is similar, and the VW has a dramatically more modern and "polished" cabin. Ironically, the more expensive Tiguan can't match the capabilities of the Kuga's standard infotainment system, either.
Trusty Toyota: The Toyota RAV4 2.2D-4D AWD VX is also a fair bit pricier and doesn't sell all too strongly, but that's got little to do with its capabilities. The RAV4 is a solid, refined and spacious all-rounder that remains a must-drive if all-wheel drive is a definite requirement. At just over R550k it is, however, pricey and you get less power/torque.
Do you really need all-wheel drive?: These vehicles very rarely go off-road so unless you're certain that you need the extra security on poor surfaces that come from having all-wheel drive, we suggest you look at more affordable non-AWD variants, too. Mazda's CX-5 2.2DE Active, priced at R462 800, is particularly attractive even though it does lack several features offered by the Ford. The fact that most brands offer their flagship diesel automatic SUVs with front-wheel drive for more than this flagship Kuga AWD just highlights how well-priced this Ford is.
Compared with its almost entirely new front-end, changes to the facelifted Kuga's rear are far less noticeable.
Notwithstanding the recent engine fire-related troubles (and subsequent PR disaster) that nearly sank its reputation, Ford's Kuga has proven a popular choice in its segment in South Africa. The pre-facelift model was launched locally in 2012 and was still a competitive product when disaster struck but was undoubtedly ageing in several respects. This newly facelifted version, therefore, has to put Ford back in the mix in a very competitive segment (that features a number of modern rivals) and do so against a backdrop of considerable public distrust.
To do this, Ford has unleashed a comprehensive line-up of Kuga derivatives that offer lots of choice with the flagship being tested here. With updated looks on the outside, more modern features on the inside and a value-oriented pricing strategy, can the facelifted Kuga make amends?
How does it fare in terms of…
Design & Packaging
With a basic design that dates back more than half a decade, the Kuga has aged remarkably well and this facelift is therefore quite suitable. At the front, it gets the new Ford SUV grille shape, similar to what you'll see on the EcoSport and Everest. Changes at the rear are far more subtle and mostly restricted to the detailing of the tail lamps. It remains a neat design and this Titanium-spec flagship (with the optional Styling Package) further benefits from the addition of striking 19-inch alloy wheels and a powered panoramic sunroof. All that said, compared with newer entrants such as the Hyundai Tucson, VW Tiguan and Peugeot 3008, the Kuga does not look as modern.
The facia is packed with features and major touch points (such as the steering wheel) are of a high quality.
The Kuga has arguably aged more noticeably on the inside, despite Ford's best efforts. Compared with modern facias, which favour a clean, minimalistic layout and great attention to detail to even minor control surfaces, the Kuga's facia design looks a bit haphazard. With familiarity, one can absolutely get used to the control layout and there's not much wrong in terms of functionality, but the game has moved on and the integration of a class-leading modern infotainment system (SYNC3) into what is a dated cabin, can't hide this.
Nevertheless, with generous adjustment from the steering wheel as well as the electrically adjustable driver's seat, comfort levels behind the wheel are high. Even the front passenger seat offers (manual) height and lumbar adjustment. Ford has also neatened up the transmission tunnel by fitting an electronic park brake, which in turn has allowed them to add some extra storage space between the front seats. The storage box between the front seats offers 2 USB outlets. In terms of overall spaciousness, the Kuga still offers competitive levels of rear legroom and a reasonably sized boot, too, though it is trumped in the latter by most modern rivals. Fold down those rear seats and an impressively flat and large load area is available (1 603 L) which compares well with its competitors.
Airline-style flip-up trays with integrated drinks holders are provided for rear passengers.
There are some very nice comfort-boosting touches to be found. For example, sturdy flip-up trays are affixed to the front seatbacks and they are a great help on those longer trips with the little ones in the back. Those seated in the rear also get access to ventilation outlets and a 230V/150W 2-point power outlet. The rear seats have reclining backrests and comfort levels were praised by passengers on longer trips. Accessing the boot is particularly easy, even when you have your hands are full – with the key in your pocket you simply wave your foot underneath the rear bumper and it will open automatically.
Performance & Efficiency
The 6-speed dual-clutch transmission fitted to this model delivers smooth shifts. Gearshift paddles are offered as standard.
This flagship version of the Kuga is powered by Ford's 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine that delivers a strong 132 kW and 400 Nm of torque. Not only does the engine make more power than its price rivals, that torque figure is also available across a wider rev range (2 000 – 3 250 rpm). Consequently, the Kuga is a responsive and keen performer. The engine is nicely matched with a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission that generally delivers smooth and well-timed shifts. If needed, the driver can always knock it down into Sport mode to up the responsiveness even further, or use the manual shift paddles behind the steering wheel (a much better solution compared with the fiddly gearshift-lever button used previously).
This is not the most modern engine or transmission on the market, but clearly considerable refinement has taken place because the drivetrain is one of the highlights of this particular Kuga package, delivering strong and smooth performance, along with impressive fuel efficiency. Ford claims a 5.4L/100 km combined cycle fuel consumption figure which, in typical Ford fashion, is very optimistic, but even in the real world we achieved 6.8L/100 km, which is impressive indeed.
Ride & Handling
Even on the larger optional wheels, the Kuga delivers a supple ride quality and excellent road manners.
One of the Kuga's greatest talents has always been its ability to deliver a soft and comfy ride for those longer trips and daily commutes to the office/school run, as well as a pleasant, even "engaging" steer when the route serves up some challenging corners. Nothing has changed on that front with this facelifted version. In fact, we suspect Ford may have added some extra NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) measures to further reduce cabin noise levels (which are very low).
"Our" Kuga test unit was fitted with the optional 19-inch wheels (as part of the Styling Pack), but even married to the extremely low-profile tyres did not manage to upset the Kuga's general ride composure. We ventured onto some particularly poor gravel during our test period and the Kuga's composure, stability and ride comfort all received the thumbs-up. In fact, when it comes suspension tuning, the Kuga may still be the class leader!
Standard Features
The SYNC3 infotainment system is comprehensive and easy to use, but navigation costs extra.
At the price, and given the fact that this model features all-wheel drive and an automatic transmission, the Kuga is packed with a surprising range of comfort-boosting standard features, some of which you'll have to pay a lot more to have in rival vehicles. This Titanium derivative, for example, comes standard with that useful hands-free powered tailgate, dual-zone climate control, cruise control, 10-way electrically adjustable driver's seat, leather upholstery, heated front seats, keyless access/start, auto lights/wipers, rear park-distance control (with rear camera view), and Ford's popular SYNC3 infotainment system that uses a high-resolution 8-inch touchscreen. SYNC3 features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and of course, supports Bluetooth and USB. If you want your SYNC3 to include embedded navigation, however, that'll cost an extra R5 044.
This Kuga featured the optional Styling Pack that includes 19-inch wheels, mud flaps and a panoramic sunroof.
You can also smarten up the relatively conservative appearance by adding the Styling Pack (R19 550) which includes 19-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof and… mud flaps.
In terms of safety features, it gets 7 airbags, rear ISOFIX child-seat mountings, hill-launch assist and an electronic stability programme (ESP). Should you want the Driver Assistance Pack, which includes Active City Stop with Low-Speed Collision Mitigation, Adaptive Cruise Control, Active Park Assist, Lane Keeping Aid and Blind Spot Information System, that'll add R15 450.
All of this means that you can add a great many advanced features to your Kuga and still come in cheaper than its rivalling automatic, turbodiesel all-wheel drive offerings at their base specification.
Pricing and Warranty
The flagship Ford Kuga currently sells for R506 900 and the price includes a 4-years/120 000 km warranty and 5-years/90 000 km service plan. Servicing should occur at 15 000 km (or 12 months) intervals.
Verdict
Arguably the Kuga's weakest aspect is its facia design, which looks cluttered and overly busy by modern standards.
There's a lot to like about this newly facelifted Ford Kuga, most of all, the downright staggering value-for-money on offer. Sure, you may not need all-wheel drive, but as it stands, this flagship Kuga undercuts even front-wheel drive diesel automatic offerings from rival brands. It does so without sacrificing specification or compromising in important areas such as engine power or warranty/service plan. Yes, if you dig into the cabin you will find a vehicle that is clearly an older design (compared with its rivals), but overall that's a small price to pay, we think, for a vehicle that still rides, performs and accommodates with the best of them.
If Ford's aggressive Kuga pricing/specification strategy was developed with the purpose of justifying this vehicle's appearance on new-car buyers' shopping lists once more, then consider that job well done… based on its abilities and overall offering, the Kuga can't be ignored.
Some hardcore petrolheads, not least the Alfisti, might believe the Alfa Romeo SUV to be a complete and utter joke, but David Taylor reckons that it's the Stelvio, and not the Giulia, which is key to securing Alfa Romeo's future.
I'm fond of Alfa Romeo's vehicles and our history goes way back. My father had a lovely 156 2.0 T Spark, which I was only allowed to drive under strict supervision, but that didn't stop me from borrowing it a few times for a few drives. One day, however, I was caught. How I am still alive beggars belief. I tried to convince my parents that my first car should be a 146 Ti, which they vetoed faster than Russia at the UN Security Council. Everyone everywhere has a fond association with Alfa Romeo and it is a brand that you bond with emotionally, more than physically. One of my colleagues has an Alfa Romeo Giulietta and he's obsessed with it.
The Stelvio marks Alfa Romeo's first foray into the highly competitive SUV segment and it's already making waves.
The Alfa Romeo Giulia has been fairly well received since its international reveal in Milan back in 2015, which I attended. That day was filled with every plausible Alfa Romeo cliche. The launch car was red and FCA boss, Sergio Marchionne, flew in by helicopter, escorted by Mafia-style security. Andrea Bocelli sang 'Nessum Dorma' and the culinary spread comprised the finest pasta, cheeses and wine. As Bocelli hit the high notes, the car came out and tears were shed. Only the Italians can pull this off!
Subsequently, we have driven the Alfa Romeo Giulia, both in QV and Sprint application, and we came away impressed, thus ending a 5-year drought for an Alfa Romeo D-segment sedan. There's a lot to like about it and the Giulia is a #CarsAwards finalist too. The masses are openly suggesting that Alfa Romeo is back and it's all thanks to the Giulia.
However, I believe that the Alfa Romeo Giulia is not the saviour of the brand at all, but rather an exercise in branding and pleasing the petrolheads. Alfa Romeo has tremendous heritage and is playing the petrolhead game remarkably well. Is there a better way to announce your return than by offering a sledgehammer sedan called the Giulia QV that elbows the Mercedes-AMG C63 in the ribs and slaps the BMW M3 around?
Combining a V6 turbo motor with Ferrari mechanicals, Alfa's trademark pretty looks, the Giulia QV is the petrolhead perfect storm. Let's not forget that dreadfully overused cliche either, 'You Can't Be A True Petrolhead Until You've Owned An Alfa.' Ugh.
The Stelvio's interior design is pleasing to the eye with luxury finishes and a host of equipment on offer.
However, when your brand is centred around one model which is in a diminishing segment that appeals to a small demographic, you're living on borrowed time. Look at how BMW 3 Series, Audi A4 and Mercedes-Benz C-Class owners have jumped into X1/X3, Q2/Q3 and GLA/GLC respectively. The big German trio is in the midst of a massive SUV campaign, while Swedish brand Volvo has launched 3 SUVs in just 3 years. Volvo's XC series is outselling the sedans comfortably. SUVs, hate them all you want, but they're here to stay and now Alfa Romeo has gone down this road.
The real brand-saving accolade belongs to the new Alfa Romeo product which has just landed on South African shores, the Stelvio SUV. An Alfa Romeo SUV sounds like a catastrophe, but brands have been stepping out of their comfort zones for some time now. Take Porsche for example. If it were not for the Macan, Cayenne and Panamera, the company would be struggling. It simply does not sell enough 911s, Caymans or Boxsters and the market for these cars has shrunk. A few years ago, Porsche admitted that it sold more Cayennes than the rest of its portfolio combined, which says it all.
Admittedly, Alfa Romeo has been here before and thankfully the Kamal was never produced. Looking back now, the concept dated badly and it was hideous. Stelvio, on the other hand, is not over-the-top when it comes to styling. Make no mistake, it's still an Alfa Romeo, but it's not dramatic or polarising.
Alfa Romeo Stelvio in Generic Silver. Nothing over-the-top here, just a luxury SUV with all the practicality and safety you'd want.
An Alfa Romeo SUV makes perfect sense as it doesn't appeal to the petrolhead brigade and can be taken seriously by non-car people. You know the types who are after comfort, value-for-money, safety features and perhaps a little hint saying to other road users that they've made it financially. The Alfa Romeo Stelvio ticks those boxes. Here we have a luxury and well-appointed SUV, which boasts all-wheel drive for all-weather capability and enough ground clearance to comfortably tackle gravel roads.
It's wonderfully practical thanks to a generous boot and there's ample room in the rear. We had a solid day's worth of driving at the South African launch and we can't wait to get under its skin even further. It was pleasant and relaxing on the open road, but it still delivered a thrilling drive when coaxed into some corners, so don't think for one second that the Stelvio has been neutered and is boring.
Of course, being Alfa Romeo, there just had to be a red-hot performance model and the Stelvio QV boasts the same biturbo V6 as the Giulia. However, thanks to all-wheel drive, it'll be ludicrously quick off the line and we won't be surprised to see it break 4 seconds to 100 kph as well as nudging its sedan sibling out the way. We'll be driving it at its international launch event before the end of 2017 and expectations are high.
Alfa Romeo Stelvio QV. Move over GLC 43 AMG, BMW X3 M40i and Audi SQ5.
The Stelvio's secret to ride quality and driving manners comes thanks to the same Giorgio platform which underpins the Giulia sedan. That Giorgio platform has been commended unanimously by the motoring press and it's no surprise that we'll see it underpin not just future Alfa Romeo products, but Maserati, Jeep and Dodge products too. Petrolheads are pining for an estate derivative of the Giulia, but the Stelvio has been so well received thus far that the estate project is all but canned.
The best part of the Giorgio platform is just how versatile it is, which means that we're likely to see a few more Alfa Romeo products before 2020. There are rumours of a BMW 4 Series rival, a bigger-than-Stelvio SUV, a smaller-than-Stelvio SUV as well as replacements for the MiTo and Giulietta. Watch this space.
Alfa Romeo is feeling bullish and the dark uncertainty which clouded its future has lifted slightly. Alfa Romeo has plenty of work still to do before it can truly claim that it's back as a credible rival to the German trio. As for the rumours of Alfa Romeo and the rest of the FCA family pulling out of SA? They're just that, rumours, and given how many products will have their South African introduction in 2018, FCA is not going anywhere.
3 Reasons Why Mercedes-Benz E350d is #CarsAwards Finalist
What makes the Mercedes-Benz 350d Avantgarde a worthy contender in the Executive Sedan category of the 2017/18 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards – powered by WesBank? We investigate…
Mercedes-Benz’s new E-Class is purported to be the most accomplished executive sedan on the market. This E350d offers impressive onboard technology and exhibits high levels of comfort, luxury, refinement and effortless performance capability. Can the Mercedes-Benz E350d Avantgarde trump its rivals to take the win in the Executive Sedan category?
3 Reasons Why Mercedes-Benz 350d Avantgarde is a #CarsAwards Finalist
1. Refined performance
With 190 kW and 620 Nm of torque on tap from its 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel engine, the E350d is not short on power and it delivers brisk, unflustered on-road performance. The E350d pulls strongly when overtaking manoeuvres are required and its performance is further enhanced by the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission, which shifts in a smooth, unobtrusive manner. The steering wheel-mounted shift paddles allow the driver to exploit performance even further with manual inputs.
As an executive sedan, the E-Class seems best geared for comfortable cruising and it doesn’t feel as fast as it is, which is largely due to its refinement… You simply don’t feel the speed. The E350d has a claimed consumption figure of 5.5 L/100 km.
2. Tech powerhouse
The E-Class is a powerhouse in terms of technological features and Mercedes-Benz has extensively upgraded the interior capabilities of the E-Class to adapt to the modern business person’s everyday life. The centre screen, for instance, has the best resolution and crispest display of any car we've experienced. It isn’t a touchscreen, however, the Stuttgart-based manufacturer has persisted with the COMAND interface's rotary knobs that are located in the driver armrest area.
Buyers can also opt for the widescreen cockpit display, which transforms the instrument cluster into a fully digital affair. It’s the most impressive option you can choose if you want to spruce up the cabin and make it look futuristic. It also features impressive driver assistance systems that make driving less stressful, especially in heavy traffic situations. The E-Class' technology offering is excellent, making it a strong contender in this category.
3. Comfort deluxe
If it’s a quiet ride that you’re after then the E-Class is the car for you. The cabin is extremely well insulated and the wind noise intrusion is minimal, even at freeway speeds. Of course, the E-Class offers adaptable modes for comfort- or sports-oriented driving and is capable of delivering sure-footed handling on a challenging stretch of blacktop. But it never sacrifices comfort and refinement. The E-Class has a smooth, soft ride quality and feels more grown-up than some of its more overtly sporty rivals, much like you’d expect a buyer in this segment to be.
Have Your Say: Complete our survey and WIN!
Do you own an E-Class? We would love to hear from you! Tell us about your experience by completing our Ownership Satisfaction Survey. Your input counts for 50% of the final result.
Fuel prices are set to rise sharply in December 2017 based on unaudited month-end fuel price data released by the Central Energy Fund (CEF) the Automobile Association (AA) reports.
Motorists are in for yet another fuel increase which is due to take effect early in December 2017. A combination of the weakening Rand and a significant rise in international oil prices are the main causes for the expected fuel price.
The AA said, "Oil has continued the strong run we have seen throughout November and the trend remains upwards. The Rand has followed a similar trend, weakening against the US dollar on average, although it has been surprisingly resilient in the days following South Africa's recent credit ratings downgrade."
According to the data, illuminating paraffin is expected to increase the most, by as much as 76 c/litre, while the cost of petrol could increase by approximately 72 c/litre, and diesel 64 c/litre.
"South Africa's economic situation remains weak, and our view is still that further fuel price hikes can be expected during the remainder of 2017 and into the first quarter of 2018," the AA says.
The potential for further downgrades by rating agencies before the end of December 2017 are still a strong possibility, which will have an impact on fuel prices going into 2018.
With the festive season around the corner, motorists are urged to budget effectively for the holiday season and practice fuel-efficient driving techniques to lower their fuel consumption and save money at the pumps.
The introduction of a 5-speed automatic derivative of the Fiat Fullback – powered by an impressive new 2.4-litre turbodiesel motor – sees the Italian manufacturer offer a much stronger contender in the leisure double-cab category of the ultra-competitive bakkie market.
When the Mitsubishi Triton-based newcomer arrived on local soil in July 2016, the model's double-cab range consisted of just 2 derivatives and there was a lone, petrol-powered, single cab. Although the Fiat bakkie has not sold particularly well so far (its Japanese cousin has not fared much better), this may change thanks to the recent arrival of an automatic option.
By offering a “versatile and reliable” product to customers looking for a vehicle that can work and play in equal measure, Fiat is aiming to capture the imagination of leisure buyers (who might otherwise be considering a crossover/SUV to transport their families), while also tapping into the commercial market with a new turbodiesel-powered single-cab workhorse offering.
What's on offer?
The Fiat Fullback is offered in both single and double-cab guises. Single-cab Fullbacks are only available in 4×2 guise and is powered by either a 2.4-litre petrol engine offering 97 kW and 202 Nm of torque or a 2.5-litre turbodiesel with peak outputs of 100 kW and 324 N.m. These derivatives feature a 5-speed manual transmission that powers the bakkies' rear wheels.
The double cab line-up comprises one 4×2 and two 4×4 derivatives. The 4×2 SX version features the same powerplant as the aforementioned single-cab turbodiesel, whereas the 4×4 LX has higher outputs of 131 kW and 400 Nm respectively. Both are equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission.
The new top-of-the-range 2.4Di-D double cab 4×4 LX is powered by the same 133 kW/430 N.m motor (claimed to consume 7.8 L/100 km) as its Mitsubishi Triton cousin, in this case mated with a 5-speed automatic transmission equipped with a shift-on-the-fly Easy Select 2H/4H and 4L knob.
The Fullback is 5.204 metres long, 1.815 metres wide and stands 1.780 metres tall. The load bay measures 1.520 metres by 1.470 metres with a depth of 475 mm and a load-carrying capacity exceeding 1 tonne (braked towing capacity is 3 tonnes).
Standard features
The interior of the Fullback is simple but comfortable and a touchscreen infotainment system is offered for double cab derivatives.
Standard features for the 97 kW Fullback 2.4-litre petrol 4×2 derivative includes power windows, manual air conditioning, central power locking, 16-inch steel wheels, cloth seats, ABS with EBD and a rubberised load bin.
As for the 100 kW 2.5-litre turbodiesel 4×2 SX derivative, leather seats, cruise control, electric windows, manual air conditioning, central locking, remote keyless entry, steering wheel controls, 17-inch alloy wheels, tow bar, rubberised load bin, two airbags and ABS with EBD are fitted as standard. To date, this is the best-selling derivative in the range (November 2017).
The LX trim builds on the specification of the SX derivative with the addition of bi-Xenon (auto-on) headlights, Bluetooth and USB capability, automatic conditioning, electric driver's seat adjustment and a reverse-view view camera. Two airbags and ABS with EBD are standard, while a satellite-navigation-equipped upgraded infotainment system is optional.
Moparise your Fullback
You can enhance the look of your Fullback with a wide range of accessories.
If you are looking beef up the look of your Fullback bakkie, there is a wide range of Mopar accessories available to you. Everything from nudge bars, side steps, rear sports bars and rear bumpers are on offer in either polished stainless steel or black powder coated stainless steel. Accessories can either be ordered with your Fullback or fitted as after-market additions by Fiat Professional dealerships.
For those with more active lifestyles, a Bosal towbar and a range of Thule roof bars will ensure that your sporting equipment is transported safely. Furthermore, various cosmetic and technical accessories are also available to customers including customised kick plates, chrome-plated side mouldings, chrome mirror housings, rear parking sensors, rubber and fabric mats, underbody protection, fog lights and special valve caps.
Fiat Fullback – prices in South Africa
Fiat Fullback 2.5Di-D double cab SX R402 900
Fiat Fullback 2.5Di-D double cab 4×4 LX R468 900
Fiat Fullback 2.4Di-D double cab 4×4 LX auto R499 000
The Fiat Fullback range comes standard with a 3-year/100 000 km warranty and a 5-year/100 000 km service plan.
Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo (2017) International Launch Review
Do you love the idea of a Panamera but still find its "4-door 911" look too compromised? Porsche has just the car for you. It’s called the Panamera Sport Turismo and it is a remarkable thing.
Confession: Days before driving the Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo I mapped out a launch report verdict that declared it the car that "Makes Station Wagons Great Again". I even had the #MSWGA hashtag ready to go. It turns out that would’ve been misguided, because Porsche’s latest venture into previously uncharted body style territory is ill-suited to the traditional premium 'wagon duties… You know, such as hauling boisterous staffies and 17th-century French writing desks. Sure it’ll swallow a few large suitcases and a matching his & hers pair of Louis Vuitton Keepall Bandoulières, but don’t imagine it as a Panamera with its practicality dialled up to eleven. Instead, the newcomer’s real trump card is the visual impact of "that ass".
When you view the Sport Turismo in motion, its rear 3-quarter lends an element of overt dynamism to the Porsche's appearance.
Design matters
While it’s widely accepted that Porsche, under the masterful design direction of Michael Mauer, has produced a far prettier, 2nd-generation Panamera, there are potential customers – possibly still mentally scarred by the flatnose humpback original – who don’t fully resonate with its large fastback profile. They also have no desire to join the sports SUV brigade, therefore ruling out a Macan or Cayenne. It’s this nichey middle ground that Porsche has nailed so beautifully with the Sport Turismo.
Follow one down a twisting, tree-lined country road and you can’t help but fall for its wide and squat stance, muscular haunches, low roofline and tapered glasshouse. It’s a design covered in delicious details such as Sci-Fi-spec four-point LED headlights (surely the coolest lamps in production today) frameless side glass, full-width rear light strip complete with chrome on black Porsche script and a deployable roof wing, not to mention the Acid Green 6-pot front brake calipers and badge highlights on the astonishingly fast Turbo S E-Hybrid model.
The Sport Turismo's 4-point LED headlights must rank among the coolest lamps in production today.
So, what’s it like to drive?
First impressions from behind the wheel of the new Sport Turismo Turbo are weighty and I’m not just referring to the car’s 2 035 kg kerb mass. Every aspect, from the steering to the creamy power delivery and the seamless shifts of the new 8-speed PDK transmission, features a solidity that could only stem from thorough engineering. It rides with supreme authority on its 3-setting air springs, providing a level of comfort befitting a genuine luxury sedan as well as the high-speed body control you’d expect from a track-capable family-friendly sports car.
Powered by a 4.0-litre bi-turbo V8 that delivers 404 kW and 770 Nm of punch, every intentional twitch of your right ankle is met with an equally punchy thud in the back. Yes, it’s all high praise, but then the Sport Turismo is hard to fault. On that note, perhaps it’s a little too well insulated. If you want front row seats to the engine’s aural performance, then you’ll need to tick the optional sports exhaust box.
The interior design is, as expected, driver-centric, but strikes a tasteful balance between sportiness and sophistication.
Initially available in 4 flavours
When the first batch lands mid-January 2018, the all-wheel-drive Panamera Sport Turismo line-up will more or less mirror that of the sedan, starting with a model called 4. Priced at R1 491 000, its 3.0-litre turbo V6 delivers 243 kW and 450 Nm. Trumping that is the 4S which makes use of a 2.9-litre bi-turbo V6 to achieve outputs of 324 kW and 550 Nm – yours for R1 717 000. Next up is the V8-engined Turbo model at R2 572 000 with the Turbo S E-Hybrid capping off the range and expected to cost around R3 million.
Hybrid theory
There are subtle differences between non-hybrid and hybrid models. The cost of electrification is around 200 kg in added mass but its positioning (low and central), along with perfectly retuned active air suspension result in a ride that is even more unflustered by minor surface irregularities. Throw in a measure of instant electric shove, and the potential of up to 50 battery-power-only kilometres and suddenly the inclusion of plug-in tech on the range-topping Turbo S E-Hybrid makes tonnes of sense.
With total system outputs of 500 kW and 850 Nm, it's little wonder that the Panamera can hit 100 kph from standstill in 3.4 sec.
Add in the party trick of launch controlled starts that give the rude finger to physics, propelling the 2.3-tonne machine with all the instant violence of a medieval catapult. But there’s nothing Middle Ages about the powertrain, which adds 100 kW of electric drive via a 14 kWh liquid cooled lithium-ion battery to the bi-turbo V8 for total system outputs of 500 kW and 850 Nm. For the record, 0-100 kph acceleration runs take 3.4 seconds – we know, we tried them, repeatedly (insert winking emoji here).
Charging the battery at home takes around 6 hours using the standard 230V 10A charger. Unless you have engaged E-Charge mode, the petrol engine isn’t tasked with charging the battery, which relies largely on brake energy recuperation to rejuice on the go. As a result, brake feel is sometimes inconsistent when harvesting, but you quickly become accustomed to it.
Another notable difference between the Sport Turismo and standard Panamera is the adoption of a 2nd row middle seat as standard.
So how practical is it really?
As intimated earlier, there are small changes over the otherwise mechanically identical Panamera. Reworking the rear surface volumes has allowed Porsche to prise another 50 litres of luggage area from the boot which now measures 520 litres. A lower loading height, courtesy of a tailgate that cuts down far deeper than on the sedan, makes for easier access. As with the regular car, the rear seatbacks tip forward individually to create a reasonably flat floor and boost cargo volume to 1 390 litres.
Another useful change is the adoption of a middle seat in the second row as standard. Don’t fret, you can option the centre console back in if you’d prefer the 4-seater business class look. Anchor points in the boot and the choice of a flexible, retractable luggage cover or a hard lid round off an easy-to-live-with package that makes the most of the real estate on offer.
A conclusion… revised
So while the Sport Turismo is patently not king of the station wagons it is everything else you’d want from a five-seater sports car. So beguiling to look at, so agile and responsive for its size and weight, so astonishingly comfortable and so fearsomely fast in hybrid spec, you can easily imagine squashing continents in one at great pace and in great, insulated comfort. In essence it lives up to its name perfectly. It is the car to Make Sports Touring Great Again.
Watch a Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid Sport Turismo in action:
