Does the new Jaguar F-Type 2.0 work as a sportscar?

Jaguar has expanded its F-Type product lineup in South Africa with the introduction of a new turbocharged, 4-cylinder, 2.0-litre Ingenium petrol engine that is now available in both coupe and convertible body styles. We took the baby F-Type for a spin at Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit to determine if the downsized F-Type delivers adequate performance and dynamic ability.

Jaguar’s high-performance rear-wheel-drive sportscar combines eye-catching styling and proven dynamic ability, brought to life with varying outputs from its 3.0-litre V6 (250 kW–294 kW) and 5.0-litre V8 (405 kW–423 kW) engines. The F-Type range is spearheaded by the mighty V8-powered SVR with 423 kW and 700 Nm of torque and is capable of sprinting from zero to 100 kph in just 3.7 seconds! The F-Type then, and especially the V8 SVR, ain't for the faint-hearted and a fair amount of nerves and skill are required to tame these powerful and intimidating machines.

With the F-Type housing these impressive engines, it’s somewhat difficult to imagine that a "puny" 4-cylinder 2.0-litre mill could do the F-Type sportscar any justice at all and one could be forgiven for questioning Jaguar’s decision drop it into the F-Type’s engine bay, a decision that might come as a surprise, or even disappointment, to F-Type fans.

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Why has Jaguar introduced a turbocharged 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine to the F-Type lineup?

Built in-house at Jaguar Land Rover’s Engine Manufacturing Centre in the UK, this new Ingenium engine is the most powerful 4-cylinder engine to be fitted into a production Jaguar, offering 221 kW and 400 Nm of torque. Not only does the new baby F-Type now serve as an entry point into the F-Type range, but due to its size, weight over the front axle has decreased by some 52 kg compared with its 250 kW V6 sibling, which not only makes it more efficient, but aids dynamic performance too.

The F-Type 2.0 offers 221 kW and 400 Nm of torque and is capable of 0-100 kph in 5.7 seconds.

There may well be a method to the madness. You see, quite frankly, the performance of the V8, and to a lesser degree, V6 F-Types is either too-hot-to-handle or – to be more diplomatic – surplus to the requirements of buyers who use their cars every day, as opposed to "for weekend jaunts" only. What's more, the lopsided line-up effectively limited the sales potential of the F-Type to "hardcore enthusiasts" seeking ultimate performance thrills.

What if you are in love with the F-Type’s styling and road presence but don’t necessarily want the pressure of wrestling a ballistic sportscar? Well… if this sounds like you, then this new F-Type 2.0 might just be the sportscar you have been waiting for all along.

A smaller engine has resulted in a 52 kg weight saving in the F-Type 2.0, giving it a unique dynamic character.

Jaguar is well aware that this baby F-Type needs to incorporate the spirit, dynamic ability and excitement that makes the F-Type so enthralling. To ensure that these traits remain, the F-Type 2.0’s outputs are only 29 kW and 50 Nm less than its nearest 3.0 V6 sibling. Outputs also compare favourably to the F-Type 2.0’s main rival, the Porsche 718 Cayman 2.0 which offers 220 kW and 380 Nm of torque.

The Jaguar F-Type 2.0 will, therefore, broaden the appeal of the F-Type, increasing its sales potential to encompass a wider buying audience, while retaining the key attributes that have made the F-Type so successful thus far.

What are the benefits of a downsized F-Type?

Based on our first impressions of the F-Type 2.0 at its launch at Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit last week, it’s worth noting that the newcomer's not as compromised as we initially perceived it would be. It’s quite the opposite, in fact…

The first important benefit of having a smaller engine beneath the bonnet is less weight, particularly over the front axle, and in the case of this new addition, its 52 kg lighter. This translates into a lighter front-end and coupled with a well-weighted and precise steering feel, the baby F-Type feels dexterous and nimble on its feet… um, okay, rubber.

You may also be happy to know that the rear-end can be quite playful if you want it to be and you can kick the baby F-Type's tail out with ease. What’s more, this F-Type is wonderfully forgiving and perhaps more importantly, predictable, when you are having fun. Unlike its more powerful siblings, you don’t feel intimidated, but rather empowered. So, yes indeed, the baby F-Type is dynamically capable and entertaining to drive.

The F-Type 2.0 is up to 16% more fuel efficient than the 250 kW F-Type 3.0 V6.

The second major benefit of this downsized engine is fuel efficiency. Jaguar claims a fuel consumption figure of 7.2 L/100 km and although we have yet to test it thoroughly in real-world conditions, we can safely assume that it will return significant fuel economy gains compared with its V6- and V8-engined siblings, and that should resonate well with its intended market.

The third major benefit of the F-Type 2.0 is its user-friendliness. Not only is its outright performance and dynamic ability more accessible, but it’s also more suitable for everyday driving. The average driver can now confidently drive an F-Type 2.0 without feeling intimidated, while there is still respectable performance and dynamic ability left to exploit.

What’s more, the F-Type 2.0 Coupe priced from R909 300, is almost R120k cheaper than its 250 kW 3.0 V6 sibling, which will attract new buyers and bolster F-Type sales going forward.

Does the new F-Type 2.0 work as a sportscar?

The new F-Type 2.0 offers approachable and manageable performance that will satisfy a wider audience.

Leading up to the launch of the F-Type 2.0, this was the burning question we wanted to answer. The short answer is yes, it does work as a sportscar.

The engine has sufficient power and torque to propel you from 0 to 100 kph in 5.7 seconds using a quick-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission, which is fast enough for the average person and, for comparison's sake, significantly faster than a VW Golf GTI. Moreover, as highlighted previously, the F-Type 2.0, with its tuned chassis, also offers manageable and accessible dynamic ability. You can still have lots of fun in this car!

Some might bemoan the fact that the 2.0-litre lacks the appealing soundtrack offered up by its V6 and V8 siblings. The truth is, it will never sound like a V6 or V8 and if a vocal soundtrack is all you want, then you will have to pay extra for it. That said, this engine still sounds great and in an effort to ensure driving excitement, the F-Type 2.0 is fitted with a tuned active exhaust as standard while the sportier R-Dynamic derivatives are equipped with a switchable active exhaust for a dose of added aural pleasure.

The F-Type 2.0 has a sound and character of its own and what Jaguar has created here is a well-balanced sportscar that will bring everyday drivability, fuel efficiency and accessible performance to a far greater audience. For Jaguar and the F-Type, that can only be a positive development.

We will have the Jaguar F-Type 2.0 on test in the near future, so look out for a thorough evaluation soon!

Jaguar F-Type 2.0 – Price in South Africa (November 2017)

Jaguar F-Type 2.0 Coupe – R909 300

Jaguar F-Type 2.0 Convertible – R926 100

The Jaguar F-Type is sold with a 3-year/100 000km warranty and a 5-year/100 000km maintenance plan.

View specification and pricing for the entire Jaguar F-Type range here!

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Subaru Impreza 2.0 Lineartronic CVT (2017) Review

The Impreza compact sedan has always played second fiddle to its WRX and WRX STI performance derivatives as well as Subaru's family car/compact SUV offerings. The Japanese brand recently introduced an all-new model with the hope that a new platform, generous specification and robust build quality will help the Impreza see off its rivals and remain relevant in a market where the popularity of sedans is on the wane.

We like: Up-to-date infotainment system, better-than-expected fuel efficiency, ride- and build quality.

We don’t like: Uninspiring to drive, middle-of-the-road performance

Alternatives:

Sporty Korean: Hyundai has done considerable work on its 2017 Elantra and the Sport flagship model costs the same as this Impreza. However, the Korean packs a 150 kW turbo punch mated with a dual-clutch 'box and has the edge in performance (but not handling). Combined with Hyundai's excellent warranty, it's a strong contender.
Go German: The Volkswagen Jetta has been around for ages and still offers good value and practicality. Even the flagship 1.6 TDI Comfortline auto is cheaper than the Impreza, but down on features. For a petrol option, consider the similarly-specced 1.4 TSI Comfortline auto for R368 900.
Another Japanese offering: The new Honda Civic certainly looks the part, but derivatives powered by the best engine (1.5T) in the line-up are expensive and the 1.8-litre normally aspirated 1.8 Elegance is well specced at R381 100, but its engine performance is middling and the CVT's an acquired taste. Not the best-made Honda we've ever tested either.

Compare the specifications of the Subaru Impreza to the Hyundai Elantra Sport, Volkswagen Jetta and Honda Civic here

What is it?

To many motorists, the name Subaru Impreza evokes images of a blue, be-winged rally cars charging across a track. Yes, although the best known Impreza derivatives are the high-performance WRX and WRX STI versions that offer giant-slaying performance for relatively little money compared with exotic sportscar and sedans, the 2.0 R and 2.5 RS versions (to name but 2 examples, both of which featured normally-aspirated motors combined with the brand's famed all-wheel-drive system), offered a more attainable, yet satisfying Subaru ownership experience. Fast forward to 2017 and there's an all-new Subaru Impreza available. It is built on an all-new platform and features the latest safety technology and features.

As ever, the styling of the standard Impreza errs on the side of conservativism; it is a good-looking sedan, but a bit anonymous.

How does it fare in terms of…

Ride and handling?

The new Impreza rides on an all-new platform (it's a tad longer than the outgoing car's) and Subaru claims it has improved the compact sedan's torsional rigidity by up to 70% compared with its predecessor. This new platform, combined with a well-balanced suspension setup, immediately manifests in a notably creak- and rattle- free cabin, with low wind and mechanical noise intrusion and ride quality that is pleasingly pliant, but without ever feeling ponderous (the 2.0 Lineartronic is shod with 17-inch alloys and wheels).

These attributes bode well for future generations of high-performance Subarus, which will, of course, be built on the same modular architecture. To reiterate, the Impreza exudes a reassuring feel of solidity from behind its 'wheel. The steering feel is well weighted and ultra-direct, and when you combine these with virtually no body roll and all-wheel drive, you feel confident when cornering with verve. Let's not forget the brand's rally pedigree either – while this Impreza is marketed as a family sedan, it felt perfectly at home on a gravel stretch.

Whereas the Impreza still has a sporty bent, cues to its athleticism are subtle, such as these handsome 17-inch alloys.

Engine performance?

The Subaru Impreza is powered by a new naturally-aspirated 2.0-litre flat 4 petrol motor. The direct injection powerplant is 12 kg lighter than its predecessor, while the gearbox is almost 8 kg lighter too. These savings help keep the car's overall weight down, but despite it being a lighter and more powerful Impreza, with peak outputs of 115 kW and 196 Nm going to all four wheels through Subaru's Lineartronic CVT, performance is fair. Expect the 0-100 kph sprint to be dispatched in around 10 seconds, which is about on par for the segment.

To its credit, however, the Impreza doesn't feel slow; we suspect that the throttle mapping and CVT calibration have been programmed to deliver instantaneous responsiveness, which allows the Suburu powerplant to make optimal use of what it's got. There's a faint Subaru-style engine note when you're really pressing on, which makes a change from the bland engine notes of its rivals and that's not even the best of it… This Subaru engine is quite economical. The claimed average consumption figure is 7.2 L/100 km and during the test, we saw an impressive 8.5 L/100 km.

The Lineartronic continuously-variable transmission is calibrated to highlight engine flexibility; it's one of the better CVTs we've experienced.

Practicality?

Some smart packaging in the Subaru Global Platform has resulted in a car that appears a bit shorter than equivalent sedans but offers impressive cabin space nonetheless. Rear legroom is to be commended, while the boot is deep enough and wide enough for a family of four's luggage. In terms of numbers, Subaru claims the boot can hold 460 litres and with the rear seats folded down, we even managed to squeeze in a mountain bike. From the driver's seat, there are plenty of storage spaces to place your phone, keys and wallet.

The Impreza's leather-trimmed interior exudes a big car ambience, the fascia design is a bit plain, but build quality is top-notch.

Safety and tech?

The 2 aspects in which the Subaru Impreza really excels are technology and safety. The cabin is modern, well appointed and the fascia's dominated by a large full-colour infotainment screen, which offers a crisp display and an intuitive user experience, much like a smartphone or tablet that allows you to zoom and pinch. This infotainment setup offers everything from satnav (powered by TomTom) to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. There's also Bluetooth connectivity and numerous USB ports dotted around the cabin.

The Impreza further features cruise control, climate control, auto- headlamps and wipers, but the safety features are the real highlights. Here are a few systems worth mentioning: Subaru's Vehicle Dynamics Control, steering-responsive headlights, high beam assist and Rear/Side Vehicle Detection which includes Blind Spot Detection, Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

Seven airbags are provided, as are your usual plethora of braking acronyms (ABS, BAS and EBD), as well as ISOfix child seat anchorage points. The top-spec derivative gains the semi-autonomous Eyesight Driver Assist tech and, for the record, the newcomer scored 5-stars in the Euro NCAP and Australian ANCAP ratings.

Whereas the functionality of Subaru infotainment systems used to be pretty basic, the Impreza's unit is very user-friendly.

Subaru Impreza Price in South Africa (November 2017)

The Subaru Impreza is sold with a 5-year/150 000 km warranty and 3-year/75 000 km maintenance plan. As of November 2017, it costs R 399 000.

Verdict

Whichever way you look at it – and setting aside the anti-sedan-pro-hatchback market trend for the moment – the Impreza 2.0 Lineartronic is an impressive family car. It combines willing performance with comfort, refinement and solid build quality. One of our testers bluntly described the Subaru as "an all-wheel-drive luxury Toyota Corolla" and after the rest of the team's initial shock passed, we found some merit in that statement. Yes, this derivative isn't cheap, but owners will revel in the car's solid engineering, backed by good spec and a maintenance plan. At this price, however, there's a dangerous rival in the shape of Hyundai's Elantra Sport, which offers notably more power and a similar level of kit for the same money.

We don't think Subaru South Africa is too concerned about sales volumes of the Impreza, however, at least not in the long term. Given how the market favours SUV-like family cars and crossovers, such as the venerable Forester and the new XV (which is a very accomplished product and deserving #CarsAwards finalist), the Japanese importer's focus will be mostly on its "off-road offerings". That is, of course, until the next generation WRX and WRX STI come along, which will please the petrolhead fanatics of the brand. For now, the entry-level Impreza is a strong enough offering.

Even if the compact family sedan market appears to be dying out, the Impreza's one of the segment's finest offerings.

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Maserati Levante S (2018) Launch Review

Sampling Maserati’s Ferrari-powered Levante in the dunes sounds like a tough job, but Ferdi de Vos put up his hand and volunteered for the arduous task. Much is expected of this petrol-powered premium SUV and Maserati hopes it'll snatch more than a few sales from its rivals.

So, the first luxury SUV from an Italian vehicle manufacturer with supercar power was the outlandish LM002 built by the Lamborghini between 1986 and 1993. Right? Well, actually no. Contrary to popular belief the brutish Rambo Lambo, while an unusual departure for the Fighting Bull and also the first four-wheel drive model built in Sant’ Agata, wasn’t the first opulent sports utility created south of the Alps.

This distinction belongs to the Tom Tjaarda designed Rayton Fissore Magnum luxury off-roader built in limited numbers in Cherasco, Italy, from 1985 to 2003. The Magnum, tailored with an Italian leather interior and a range of 4, 6 or 8-cylinder engines was sold in Europe as a competitor to the Range Rover, while the top American versions, marketed as Laforza, were powered by the Ford V8 5.0 SEFI V8 (some supercharged) as used in the contemporary Mustang GT, or by a 6.0-litre V8 with Eaton supercharger from GM.

The Ford V8 was good for 156 kW to over 200 kW of power, while the supercharged Chevy LS1 engine churned out an impressive 270kW and 515Nm of torque – heady figures at the time and not far off the 313 kW and 570 Nm delivered by the Countach derived 5.2-litre V12 in the LM002. Nearly a decade later the Fornasari RR99, a sleek four-door SUV first shown at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, followed in the tyre tracks of the Laforza and LM002.

The RR99, powered by a 455kW Chevy V8 that gives it a 0–100 km/h time of 3.8 seconds and a top speed of 280 km/h, can be considered the first “modern” Italian luxury SUV/crossover, but sadly the small company, created in 1999 by Giuseppe Fornasari, was declared bankrupt in 2015. Meanwhile, following the success of the Porsche Cayenne the FCA Group started development of a mid-size SUV, culminating in the Kubang concept displayed at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show and finally the Levante – the first four-wheel drive Maserati – introduced in 2016.

To feel the Modenese SUV’s 580 Nm of thrust while challenging the dunes is, in a word, delightful.

Introducing the Levante

The immediate success of the Levante in the world’s largest luxury segment proved to be a turning point for the Modenese manufacturer. In just over a year more than 25 000 Levantes were sold in 72 countries around the world, making it the highest-selling Maserati in that time. It was launched in South Africa in 2016, but only made available in diesel guise – and while the VM Motori V6 turbodiesel engine delivers a healthy 202 kW it doesn’t really do the luxury Italian crossover justice.

It falls short of the best in class dynamically and its performance (0-100 kph in 7,3 seconds) is diminished by its weight of more than 2,2 tonnes and even with 600 Nm of torque its power delivery is somewhat lethargic, with a hint of turbo lag before the V6 gets into its stride. But now la forza is back… in the form of the petrol-driven Levante S, the most powerful mid-sized Italian SUV available (well, at least for the moment) and this latest iteration of the flagship Levante model – soon to be unleashed locally – was recently introduced to the media in the dunes of Dubai.

To listen to the snarl of Ferrari-derived power in the desert and to feel the Modenese SUV’s 580 Nm of thrust while challenging the dunes was just delightful. With the 8-speed ZF auto gearbox (now with even quicker shifting times) in off-road mode, power distribution via the Q4 Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system with torque vectoring and a limited-slip diff to the wide wheels was near seamless, while the lifted suspension made it easy to negotiate small obstacles.

With a Ferrari-flavoured 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 under its bonnet, the Levante finally offers the punchy performance enthusiasts expect.

What's it like to drive?

Besides the fantastic aural experience from the V6, the power and flexibility of the bespoke engine transforms the car. It highlights the sporty credentials of the Trident brand in no uncertain way, and the S feels much more balanced than its diesel counterpart. With 316 kW on tap from its 3.0-litre twin-turbo direct injection engine, the S, according to Maserati, blasts from 0-100 kph in 5.2 seconds and reaches a top speed of 264 kph – putting it firmly in Porsche Cayenne, Mercedes-AMG GLE and BMW X5M/X6 M territory.

The Levante range now also has a new electric power steering system in place of the hydraulic system used up to now. According to Maserati this system better supports the different driving modes and enables a bouquet of new active driver assistance functions such as Highway Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist and Traffic Sign Recognition. On the broad Dubai highways, the steering felt a bit remote at speed, but well weighted in the corners and at lower speeds in town, and Maserati also maintains it doesn’t affect engine power.

The exhaust system, controlled by pneumatic valves, maintain the rich aural signature of the brand, but in Sport mode it can become quite booming in the cabin, which will, perhaps, be appreciated by many, but probably not by all… Also noteworthy was the good stopping power supplied by Brembo 6-piston callipers and 380 mm ventilated discs up front and 330 mm ventilated discs at the rear, while thanks to standard air suspension (providing six different height levels) and Skyhook shocks, ride comfort was exemplary.

The menu of the infotainment system gives away that the unit was sourced from other products in the FCA Group, but the nameplate's a nice touch.

The Levante range is now available in GranLusso and GranSport trim with the GranLusso grade recognisable by metallic-finish front skid plates and roof rails, GranLusso badges on the front wings, body-coloured side skirts, black-painted brake callipers and 19-inch Zefiro alloys.

The GranSport model has a piano black front grille, skid plates and roof rails, GranSport badges, body-coloured side skirts, blue inserts on all Trident and Saetta logos, as well as red brake calipers and 20-inch Nereo wheels, and while the Levante and Levante Diesel are equipped with 18-inch tyres as standard, the Levante S features 19-inch wheels as standard, with wider tyres at the rear.

The GranLusso cabin combines a choice of Ermenegildo Zegna silk or full premium Italian upholstery, 12-way power comfort seats, a Harman Kardon sound system and power-adjustable steering wheel. The Levante GranSport has sportier trim inside, including sport seats, sport steering wheel with gearshift paddles and carbon trim.

Inserts of handwoven Ermenegildo Zegna silk give the Levante's interior more than just a hint of opulent exclusivity.

Summary

The new S turbopetrol derivative will undoubtedly add to the allure of the Levante, and if sportiness, rareness and real Italian power are what you’re after, this Maserati premium SUV ticks all the boxes. However, while owning a Levante may set you apart from Cayennes, Range Rovers, Jaguars, BMWs and Mercedes-AMGs crowding our roads, you will need to dig deep for that kind of exclusivity, as pricing for the S derivative starts at R1 950 000 and with extras will probably retail for close to R2.3 million.

Specifications: Maserati Levante S GranSport

Engine: Petrol V6

Displacement (cc): 2,979

Max. Power (kW): 316 @ 5 750 rpm

Peak Torque (Nm): 580 @ 5 000 rpm

Fuel consumption (l/100 km): 10.9

CO2 (g/km): 253

0-100 kph (sec): 5.2

Top speed (kph): 264

Gearbox: ZF eight-speed automatic

Transmission: Q4 Intelligent All-Wheel Drive with rear LS differential

Suspension Front: Double wishbone, Air Springs, Skyhook shocks

Suspension Rear: Multilink, Air Springs, Skyhook shocks

Length/width/height (mm): 5,003 / 1,968 / 1,679

Wheelbase (mm): 3,004

Tyres (standard): 265/50 ZR19 front; 295/45 ZR19 rear

Price (in SA): From R1 950 000

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2018 Jeep Wrangler Revealed

Jeep has shown off its all-new Wrangler and while details are sparse, pictures give us a good look at the capable SUV, both inside and out.

Jeep claims that its new Wrangle boasts more 4×4 capability, new fuel-efficient engines, more ways to drop the top as well as additional safety technology. While the design has not changed dramatically, minor cosmetic differences will be noticeable to keen-eyed observers.

Upon the Jeep Wrangler's introduction, it will be available in 2- and 4-door guises and in 3 trim levels: Sport, Sahara and Rubicon. The Sport trim has tow hooks, electronic stability control, tinted glass, a fuel tank skid plate, hill start assist, keyless go, full-size spare wheel, traction control and a 5-inch Uconnect infotainment system.

Sahara models feature air conditioning, heavy-duty suspension with gas shocks, leather-wrapped steering wheel, heated electrically adjustable mirrors, a rear stabilizer bar, remote keyless entry, a security alarm, plus a 7-inch infotainment screen. Finally, the hardcore Rubicon has an 8.4-inch Uconnect system, Tru-lok front and rear axles, rock protection sill rails, performance suspension, 17-inch off-road tyres, front disconnecting stabiliser bar, Dana wide (front and rear) axles, as well as a 4.10 rear axle ratio for hardcore offroading.

Customers will be able to customise their Wrangles via the comprehensive Mopar catalogue. We predict the new Jeep Wrangler will become available in the South African market around the middle of 2018.

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World Rallycross Comes to Cape Town: Meet an SA Driver

With the World Rallycross season finale making its debut on the African continent, we needed to find out all we can about the world's fastest growing motorsport genre. More importantly, there are two South Africans racing in this weekend's event and we got to meet one of them.

World Rallycross is the fastest-growing motorsport genre and we're super excited that the season finale will be held in Cape Town, South Africa this weekend (10/11/12 November 2017). What exactly is World Rallycross, you ask? Think of it as the combination of circuit racing and rally driving, with a healthy dose of stunt driving thrown in for good measure. Racers use highly-modified versions of road-going cars, which feature all-wheel drive and big-power turbocharged engines. The performance surrounding these cars is staggering. 0-100 kph is decimated in under 2 seconds.

The big drawcards for this weekend will be nine-time WRC Champion Sebastien Loeb and America’s Ken Block, famous for his gymkhana videos. There will be two South African drivers taking part at Killarney this weekend. Mark Cronje will be behind the wheel of an Albatec Racing Peugeot 208 WRX, while Ashley Haigh-Smith will be pedalling the Olsbergs MSE Ford Fiesta. Ashley Haigh-Smith is just 25 years old and has considerable rally experience under his belt. He can also truly claim homeground advantage as his family farm is just 10 minutes from the Killarney circuit. We spent some time with Ashley and got to know the intricacies surrounding this fast-growing discipline.

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Nissan 370Z (2017) Quick Review

Nissan’s 370Z sportscar received a facelift recently and we had it on *test*** to determine if it is still relevant in the company of more modern and (some would say) exciting products on offer in our market. Should you consider the 370Z or is your money better spent elsewhere? Read on…

We Like: Rev-happy engine, performance, old-school appeal

We Don’t Like: Poor fuel economy, heavy steering/gear-shift action, dated interior

Alternatives

The modern coupe: Consider the Audi TT Coupe 2.0T FSI priced from R616 000. It’s not as powerful as the 370Z but still good for 169 kW and 370 Nm of torque from its turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine. Some purists will be deterred by its front-wheel-drive configuration and scoff as its look-at-me image, but it's a solid performer.
The performance coupe: Consider the BMW M240i Coupe priced from R698 702. Powered by a 6-cylinder, 3.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine, the M240i offers 250 kW and a heady 500 Nm of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels using an 8-speed sports automatic; it might not be very comfortable on longer journeys, however.

Compare the Nissan 370Z's specification with the Audi TT 2.0T FSI and BMW M240i here!

The Nissan 370Z – still lots of fun to drive and updated styling will keep turning heads.

What is it?

Born in the 60’s with the introduction of the Datsun 240Z, Nissan’s Z-car legacy stretches across 5 generations and has brought rear-wheel drive kicks to countless sportscar enthusiasts over the years. There is, after all, much to like about a high-revving V6 engine sending the rear wheels into a frenzy on your command…

In its latest form, the 370Z features new exterior design details seen in the now-standard, Nismo-inspired, darkened headlights and taillights, new chrome steel door handles and a black rear diffuser; it rides on new 19-inch alloy wheels and is offered in a striking Red Metallic body colour. Furthermore, Nissan has also installed a high-performance clutch in this manual derivative and enthusiasts are likely to appreciate the synchronised rev control system that automatically blips the throttle on downshifts, making the novice driver feel like a race ace.

A major interior change is the inclusion of a new 7-inch touchscreen with satellite navigation, a DVD player and a 9.3 GB music hard drive. The 370Z oozes old-school machismo and although it has aged relatively well, is it relevant considering that there are more modern and efficient sports cars on offer?

The Good

Old-school appeal

Old-school is still cool and the Nissan 370Z tugs at the heartstrings of driving enthusiasts with its rear-wheel drive antics.

Yes, the 370Z hasn’t changed much and even though it receives criticism for being a trifle passe, it has old-school appeal that some "modern" coupe sportscar can’t quite pull off. Sure, it’s heritage has much to do with that, but with the upgrades, its looks are still appealing and its bulbous rear-end and flared wheel arches are a pleasant reminder of its rear-wheel bias.

The interior, which mostly consists of hard plastic surfaces, looks dated by modern standards but it is well put together and feels sturdy. The new touchscreen infotainment system does help to modernise the interior somewhat and the gauges on the dashboard and 3-spoke steering wheel add a sporty touch to the cabin.

What the 370Z lacks in terms of design, it makes up for by offering an unfiltered sportscar driving experience. It’s not pretentious, it just is, and we like that about the 370Z…

Performance kicks

With 245 kW, the Z offers strong performance and will gallop from 0 to 100 kph in 5.3 seconds.

Stab the Start/Stop button and the Z's naturally-aspirated 3.7-litre V6 engine bursts to life with a hearty thrum. With 245 kW and 363 Nm of torque, the motor has ample shove to exploit.

It’s quite happy to potter around town, but if you want to get the absolute most from the engine, you need to rev it… and rev it hard. With peak power produced at 7 000 rpm and maximum torque arriving at 5 200 rpm you need to be willing to work the 6-speed stick shift, which feels stiffer than most manuals, with gusto, but otherwise catches gear changes nicely.

Once you venture higher into the rev range, the engine livens up and the Z’s appeal comes to the fore with the synchronised throttle blips providing a sense of occasion when you are gearing down. Acceleration is brisk with Nissan claiming a zero to 100 kph sprint time of 5.3 seconds. For those with a penchant for whipping the tail out, the Z will oblige with relative ease, but if you aren't careful, it can bite you.

Comfortable ride and entertaining handling

Ride quality is good for everyday driving and it's suitable for longer out-of-town trips too.

Unlike more modern offerings which are typically lighter and more nimble, the Z looks and feels heavy (it weighs 1 461 kg) and the steering is on the heavier side too. It does, however, provide reassurance with a well-planted stance and ample body control, all of which translates into sure-footed handling ability. Indeed, the Z proves entertaining to cane through a challenging set of bends – its unashamedly raw, mechanical feel lends an appealing element to the driving experience.

Compared with its predecessor, this 370Z's suspension has been tweaked in an effort to improve overall ride quality, but benefit handling too. In the event, we found the Nissan rides surprisingly well without being too compromised and it’s certainly comfortable enough to drive on a daily basis or on longer journeys.

Reasonably practical for a sportscar

Luggage space is reasonable for a coupe sportscar and adequate for smaller bags and your daily grocery shopping.

You wouldn’t expect the 370Z to offer much space for luggage, but the luggage area offers a reasonable 213 litres of space when you open the rear glass hatch, which is adequate for smaller bags, shopping and so forth. A retractable luggage compartment cover is also a useful feature if you want to keep items hidden or protect your daily groceries from the sun.

In the cabin, additional storage space can be found behind the seats and there are bottle holders in the doors, as well as a central cupholder ahead of the centre console storage bin.

The Not-So-Good

It's thirsty, this Nissan!

With all that grunt on tap, it's not surprising that the 370Z isn't particularly fuel-efficient when it's used as intended.

The downside to the Z’s happy-go-lucky performance credentials is that the 3.7-litre V6 engine has a bit of a drinking problem – something owners and potential buyers will have to come to terms with. Nissan claims an average fuel consumption figure of 10.5 L/100km and during its tenure with us, we couldn’t achieve anything better than 13.5 L/100 km.

Buttons galore

The cabin is solidly built but the layout and design is dated. There are many buttons to push…

Although the presence of a touchscreen infotainment system has lifted the interior somewhat, there are still a plethora of buttons found inside the Z and the layout is outdated. The driver can be easily distracted from driving while fiddling with all the buttons on the fascia.

Price and warranty

This Nissan 370Z manual is priced from R661 900 and comes with a comprehensive 6-year/150 000 km warranty, as well as a 3-year/90 000km service plan. For those who prefer an automatic transmission, you can expect to pay R680 900 for the 370Z automatic.

Verdict

Despite its age, the updated 370Z still has much to offer,

The Nissan 370Z flies in the face of its more modern rivals and its pricing is comparatively attractive. The Z is a rarity in this day and age: an uncomplicated (even naturally aspirated!) sportscar that offers a visceral driving experience where driver and machine engage intimately. That, perhaps, is the Nissan's greatest strength. It’s eminently entertaining and fun to drive.

That’s not always enough to encourage sales, however. Due to the product's advanced age, many buyers will question whether it is worth spending R661 900 on what is essentially an 8-year old car, and rightfully so. For similar money, buyers can step into a used, low-mileage F-Type Coupe or Porsche Cayman that will offer similar or better thrills and more badge appeal. Even so, the Nissan 370Z has its place and if you want to thumb your nose at the establishment and tap into some old-school nostalgia, then the Z is worth a look.

Old-school is still cool after all…

3 Reasons Why Volkswagen Golf is #CarsAwards Finalist

What makes the Volkswagen Golf 1.4TSI Comfortline R-Line a strong contender in the Premium Hatchback category of the 2017/18 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards – powered by WesBank? We investigate…

The facelifted Golf 7, dubbed 7.5, is more refined than ever and it offers an attractive, upmarket cabin. Small changes have lifted the new Golf’s appearance smartly to new territory where it can easily compete against entry-level options from traditional exclusive brands like Merc, BMW and even Audi.

3 Reasons Why Volkswagen Golf 1.4TSI Comfortline R-Line is a #CarsAwards Premium Hatchback Finalist

1. Solid performer

The 1.4-litre turbopetrol is unchanged from the previous generation but a new 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox is employed to do the shifting. Acceleration is smooth and performance is actually more brisk than you’d think from the 92 kW and 200 Nm engine. Zero to 100 kph takes 9.1 seconds and it will go on to over 200 kph. Overtaking and tractability from the turbo engine is impressive and it always feels likes it’s got power to give when you need it.

2. Refined ride and handling

Volkswagen’s MQB platform has shown that in no matter what configuration the body is in (SUV, crossover, sedan and hatch), it can cope. It provides a sturdy base that’s smooth across tarmac as well as notchy, potholed roads. The cabin is quiet at speed and the steering well-weighted with ample feedback.

Excellent drivability is one of the reasons why the Golf GTI holds the title in this category and this Golf 1.4TSI Comfortline R-Line is an equally accomplished daily driver, making it a worthy contender in the Premium Hatchback category.

3. Brand strength

Volkswagen has a favourable reputation in South Africa with a widespread dealer footprint across South Africa. Added to this, Volkswagen’s resale values in the used car market are strong and this Golf derivative is backed by a 3-year/120 000 km warranty and 5-year/90 000 km service plan.

Have Your Say: Complete our survey and WIN!

Do you own a Volkswagen Golf? 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!

Which cars are the Golf's rivals in #CarsAwards?

The 2017/18 #CarsAwards finalists: Premium Hatchback Category

Compare the Golf's specs with the Subaru XV 2.0i-S ES and the Audi A3 2.0T FSI Sportback S Line Auto

World Rally Cross in Cape Town: Everything You Need to Know

World Rally Cross (RallyX) is coming to Cape Town – marking the first time this racing series has visited the African continent.

This modern form of the motorsport has exploded in recent years. The tracks are designed with the audience in mind, virtually every spectator can view the entire track from where ever they are sitting. Races are held in 12 countries and for the next 5 years, the championship will wrap up in Cape Town.

Each event takes place over an entire weekend with over 50 races jampacked into two days. 10 drivers from 4 teams including Ford, Audi, Volkswagen and Peugeot take part and the sport has drawn in some absolute legends, including the most successful driver in world rally history: Sebastien Loeb.

Cape Town’s Killarney Raceway has been specially modified to host the event. We sent our own race ace, Ashley Oldfield, to meet Ashley Haigh-Smith at the track. This is an exclusive look at the Cape Town World Rally Cross race circuit before the event on the 11th and 12th of November.

Tickets are still available at ticketpros.co.za

A huge thank you to Ashley Haigh-Smith, one of only two South African drivers taking part in the race, for his time and energy.

Check him out here: https://ashleyhaighsmith.com/

4-Cylinder Jaguar F-Type (2017) Price in SA

Jaguar is launching a new 4-cylinder F-Type coupe and cabriolet in South Africa this week. We will be driving it at Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit in Johannesburg this week! See pricing details below.

Jaguar has been forced down the 4-cylinder route, much like Porsche was with its 718 range. The downsizing trend continues as engines get smaller, turbochargers get better and crisp exhaust notes fade into forgotten memory, replaced with pops and bangs tuned by a "young man behind a laptop wearing a trucker hat".

We have fond memories of the V6 and V8 F-Type derivatives and we hope the new 4-pot will deliver similar thrills. For starters, the 2.0-litre Ingenium unit develops a healthy 221 kW and 400 Nm of torque. That's good enough to shove the less-than-lightweight F-Type from zero to 100 kph in 5.7 seconds and on to a limited top speed of 250 kph. The smaller engine does have the advantage of weight, lessening the load on the front axle by 52 kg.

The 4-cylinder has been dropped into both the coupe and convertible models. Engineers have given the standard models an active exhaust system to enhance the tailpipe sound. R-Dynamic variants get a switchable active exhaust mode.

The R-Dynamics models get additional kit that includes a sportier bumpers and side sill to go with gloss black interior trim and 19-inch wheels.

Jaguar F-Type 2.0 – Price in SA

2.0 Coupe R953 400
2.0 Convertible R971 000

Prices include a 3-year/100 000 manufacturer warranty and 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan.

Interested in buying a Jaguar F-Type?

Search for a new/used example here

Next-gen VW Amarok Range to Expand?

Is this what the next-generation Amarok will look like? Plus, what has Volkswagen learnt from producing and marketing its first Amarok… and how will it influence the packaging of the next generation bakkie? How strong is the possibility that the next Amarok (or derivatives thereof) be produced in South Africa? We sat down with the CEO of VW Commercial Vehicles, Dr Eckhard Scholz, at the recent Frankfurt International Motor Show to discuss the future of the Amarok.

The recent introduction of high-profile newcomers to the global B-segment (Hilux size) pick-up market has accelerated global interest into what was previously almost exclusively of Asian-Pacific, South African or South American market importance. Recently, the addition of a V6 turbodiesel engine to the popular Amarok relatively late in its product cycle, was further evidence of how this market is evolving. Our chat with Dr Scholz gave some fascinating insights into what Volkswagen has learnt in the past 7 years of Amarok sales, as well as how it will respond in the future.

Product is one thing… back-up is equally important

Seven years on from launch, the first-gen Amarok has evolved to be one of the most popular leisure double-cabs in the local market.

When Volkswagen launched the Amarok 7 years ago, it was a major step for the company and a lot of naysayers were doubtful of the vehicle's market potential. Volkswagen itself had a lot to learn in what was new territory for the brand. I was keen to hear what the most important lessons were over the past few years;

"What I’ve learned is that quality is the most important thing," says Dr Scholz. "A pick-up has to be robust, the quality has to be to the highest level, not only for the premium pick-ups but also for the workhorses. I have also learnt that it (a pick-up) is a car customers work with, and that if you have some problem, it needs to be solved immediately. It is important to deliver spare parts in a short time, and help customers get back to their business."

"You have to be very customer oriented. It's not enough to bring a good car into market. I'm sure now that the Amarok is in a lot of cases the best car in its segment, but all the other competitors are also very professional, so you have to work with your customers and you have to learn to be flexible and quick to help them if there are some problems."

Interpretation: Volkswagen has learned that the bakkie market, the workhorse segment in particular, requires fast after-sales service and efficient back-up. For the future, this could mean that production facilities have to be closer to the main markets.

The importance of a workhorse offering

The single-cab "workhorse" Amarok has not been price competitive and is no longer offered for sale in South Africa.

In recent years the focus in the Amarok range has increasingly shifted towards offering a premium, lifestyle offering as opposed to a workhorse package. A key driver in this is cost – with Amarok production currently taking place in Europe and South America, the landing costs of its supposed workhorse derivatives have simply been too high to be competitive. I asked Dr Scholz whether there isn't space for a separate workhorse vehicle below the Amarok in the line-up?

"So nowadays we have premium positioning with the Amarok, and we have to think more about alternatives for the workhorse… there we are not so strong as Volkswagen might be, and maybe there are some opportunities for the future. For the first step, this is our first pick-up, and I'm very happy about the quality of our product. We worked hard to bring the Amarok on this level, but for the next step we have to think more about a low-cost pick-up to be interesting for the workhorse (market). There is space enough for a more workhorse-oriented car. The Amarok is competitive, but from a price perspective, there’s room. It's only a question about price, robustness and quality."

Interpretation: Volkswagen's current Amarok has not been price-competitive in the workhorse segments. Three possible future scenarios come into play; one, where Amarok workhorse production shifts to the bigger markets; two, where an all-new, more cost-effective and basic workhorse offering is developed to sit below the Amarok and three; an all-new workhorse version produced at a lower price in the markets where it is needed.

Electric no… SUV yes!

The American-market Atlas 7-seat SUV. An Amarok-based SUV to combat the Fortuner is likely to be part of the next-gen line-up.

At the Frankfurt Motor Show, much was said about the roll-out of electrification across nearly the entire VW line-up in the near future. I asked Dr Scholz about the same happening on the commercial-vehicle side. His answer was quite short… While Volkswagen will be rolling out EV or hybrid versions of its other commercial vehicles (vans, last-mile delivery vehicles etc.) he doesn't foresee it happening on the pick-up front. So that's that, then.

Talk then turned to the likelihood of an SUV version of the Amarok, to compete with the likes of the Ford Everest and Toyota Fortuner. His answer was quite short again, but this time positive. However, the introduction of such a vehicle would only happen after the second-generation Amarok has been introduced. It is simply too late in the current vehicle's lifecycle to introduce a new spin-off variant.

South African production on the cards?

With the introduction of the Mercedes-Benz X-Class, the next-gen Amarok double-cab is likely to be even more "upmarket".

After Dr Scholz's responses to the first two questions, I was left with the distinct impression that South African production of the next-generation Amarok, or perhaps the more workhorse-specific derivative, is on the cards. I asked him whether VW is considering a shift in production from the current bases.

"Absolutely, you have to be close to the big markets… it's absolutely important. You can‘t deliver (to) all these markets from South America or Europe and for sure we have to change that. If we bring a workhorse we need a competitive cost position and that's not possible form Europe and South Amierica so we have to think about it. For the B-pick-up (segment) you need a global production network… the big pick-up manufacturers such as Toyota and Ford show that’s the only way.

"You have to think about the complete story… the B-segment pick-up is a global story, not a national one. You have to think about a global footprint, and you have to achieve competitive price positioning. With the Amarok, we deliver a high-quality product. From this position, from Hanover in particular, you can’t achieve (competitive pricing)… so you have to think about a global footprint, you have to achieve a more competitive price positioning. We have to think about the next step. You have to be in the big markets with production. We have to optimise. Step by step."

Interpretation: While Dr Scholz did not specifically state that the Amarok would be produced in South Africa in the future, it certainly did come across as a strong possibility. It makes a lot of sense, particularly in the workhorse segment. Where the current Amarok competes so successfully, at the top-end of the market, price is ultimately not as sensitive an issue. With the arrival of the new Mercedes-Benz X-Class, we can also see the next-generation Amarok, due in 2019 or 2020, to move further upmarket to compete effectively, leaving a big opening at the lower price points which can possibly not be filled by a vehicle that was developed, at its core, to compete at the top end. Another factor to consider is tightening emissions legislation in Europe… This leads me to predict the development and introduction of a lower-cost "workhorse" vehicle that will be produced in several countries, particularly to feed the big markets in Asia, Australia and… South Africa.

What does VW SA say?

The VW SA plant in Uitenhage. A spokesperson says it would like to add a third production line…

We asked Volkswagen South Africa to comment on such a scenario and received the following;

“Volkswagen South Africa currently manufactures the Polo and the Polo Vivo and will continue to do so with the new models expected in early 2018. Ideally, we would like to be able to add a third model in the future, if this would be a commercial or passenger derivative would depend on many factors. Whilst a number of studies have been conducted, no concrete plan or decisions have been made or decided upon.”

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Looking to buy a new / used VW Amarok?

Find one on Cars.co.za today by clicking here

Does the new Jaguar F-Type 2.0 work as a sportscar?

Why has Jaguar introduced a turbocharged 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine to the F-Type lineup?

What are the benefits of a downsized F-Type?

Does the new F-Type 2.0 work as a sportscar?

Jaguar F-Type 2.0 – Price in South Africa (November 2017)

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Maserati Levante S (2018) Launch Review

Sampling Maserati’s Ferrari-powered Levante in the dunes sounds like a tough job, but Ferdi de Vos put up his hand and volunteered for the arduous task. Much is expected of this petrol-powered premium SUV and Maserati hopes it'll snatch more than a few sales from its rivals.

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Jeep has shown off its all-new Wrangler and while details are sparse, pictures give us a good look at the capable SUV, both inside and out.

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World Rallycross Comes to Cape Town: Meet an SA Driver

With the World Rallycross season finale making its debut on the African continent, we needed to find out all we can about the world's fastest growing motorsport genre. More importantly, there are two South Africans racing in this weekend's event and we got to meet one of them.

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Nissan 370Z (2017) Quick Review

Nissan’s 370Z sportscar received a facelift recently and we had it on test to determine if it is still relevant in the company of more modern and (some would say) exciting products on offer in our market. Should you consider the 370Z or is your money better spent elsewhere? Read on…

Alternatives

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Performance kicks

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What makes the Volkswagen Golf 1.4TSI Comfortline R-Line a strong contender in the Premium Hatchback category of the 2017/18 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards – powered by WesBank? We investigate…

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4-Cylinder Jaguar F-Type (2017) Price in SA

Jaguar is launching a new 4-cylinder F-Type coupe and cabriolet in South Africa this week. We will be driving it at Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit in Johannesburg this week! See pricing details below.

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Nissan’s 370Z sportscar received a facelift recently and we had it on *test*** to determine if it is still relevant in the company of more modern and (some would say) exciting products on offer in our market. Should you consider the 370Z or is your money better spent elsewhere? Read on…