Mazda3 with G-Vectoring tech: Does it work? [Video]
We were afforded the opportunity to compare the facelifted Mazda3 flagship with its immediate predecessor to test out the major technical difference between the two – the former's new G-Vectoring system. Herewith a demonstration.
The facelifted Mazda3 is a minor update at best. From the outside, you’d be hard-pressed to tell the two models apart. Thankfully, under the skin, Mazda has added a new system called G-Vectoring. It’s a very technical system that Mazda says improves the handling and comfort levels on the new model. We trekked out to Killarney International Raceway to see if we could find out how much of a difference this new G-Vectoring system actually makes.
Jeep has introduced its all-new Compass compact SUV in celebration of its state-of-the-art production facility in Goiana, Pernambuco, Brazil.
The Jeep Compass and Patriot models have aged and the brand is now replacing them with an all-new Compass that will be manufactured in Goiana, Brazil. The new Jeep Compass will be showcased at the LA Motor Show and Jeep says the model will offer 17 fuel-efficient powertrain options for more than 100 countries worldwide.
Furthermore, Jeep believes the new Compass will offer “an unmatched combination of attributes that includes legendary and best-in-class 4×4 off-road capability, advanced fuel-efficient powertrains, premium and authentic Jeep design, superior on-road driving dynamics, open-air freedom, and a host of safety and advanced technology offerings”.
Should Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) decide to build the new Compass in RHD (which we believe is highly likely, probably at the Melfi plant in Italy) it will probably be offered in South Africa, as our market already offers two products that share the Compass' platform (Jeep Renegade and Fiat 500X). More so, if you consider the popularity of crossovers in the South African market, the Compass should sell well here. Further details regarding the new Jeep Compass are slim at this point, but we will keep you updated as more information becomes available.
We’re on the hunt for the best compact executive car in the new vehicle market. These are the Business Class semi-finalists for the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards – powered by WesBank!
The Cars.co.za Ownership Satisfaction Survey, in partnership with leading data specialists, Lightstone Consumer, forms an integral part of the awards programme, with the survey accounting for 50% of the final result in each category. The brand-specific data incorporates feedback from thousands of South African new vehicle owners, based on their experiences of their vehicles (must be less than 5 years old and serviced through franchised outlets).
In this category, you will find the type of cars that (realistic) dreams are made off. We’re looking for an aspirational vehicle that will appeal to the image-conscious driver who places a priority on performance, dynamics, technology and design. The target customer has achieved success in their career and seeks to purchase a car that broadcasts their achievements.
For a car to be considered in this category, the following criteria apply: the listed price must be between R500 000 and R750 000 at the time of semi-finalist voting (September 1, 2016); the fitment of trim lines and optional extras must collectively not push the price over R750 000. Safety features are important and the vehicle must have 6 airbags (if optional, the price of these items, together with all other options, must not push the total price over R750 000) as well as ESP (if not fitted as standard, this feature must be available as an optional extra and specifiable without the price exceeding R750 000).
Jaguar finally has a strong competitor in the important Business Class segment with the dashing XE. It prioritises athleticism and also comes with a healthy dose of exclusivity. Is this the car to break the German premium brands’ choke hold on this segment? The XE debuted the brand’s new Ingenium generation of engines in South Africa.
The 2.0-litre, turbodiesel 4-cylinder delivers a strong 132 kW and 430 Nm of torque, which, in combination with the smooth 8-speed automatic transmission, delivers brisk performance. Jaguar claims a 0-100 kph time of 7.8 seconds, as well as a 228 kph top speed. But it’s the XE's in-gear acceleration, courtesy of the motor's torque wave, that leaves a lasting impression. Oh, and of course, good fuel economy: Jaguar claims a combined cycle consumption figure of 4.2 L/100 km.
The World Car of the Year-winning Mercedes-Benz C-Class continues to be a comfortable frontrunner in this segment. Let’s not forget it’s our reigning champion in the Consumer Awards! We’ve again selected the C250 AMG Line model, as it combines the brand’s lively 2,0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with sporty AMG detailing, all at a very good price.
The C250 is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers 155 kW and 350 Nm of torque. Mercedes-Benz shares this engine with Infiniti, but in the C-Class the maximum torque figure is available over a wider engine rev range than in the Q50. The C250 is also slightly faster (0-100 km/h in 6.6 sec) and economical (5.9 L/100 km).
Given the importance of the A4 for Audi, it is understandable that the Ingolstadt-based brand would take its time to get this model just right. With an updated BMW 3 Series and superb Mercedes-Benz C-Class to contend with, it had to be good and, based on our experience with the new model thus far, it is indeed a strong challenger for best-in-class honours.
Before we discuss the abilities of the powerplant, bear in mind the A4’s body is around 120 kg lighter, which aids performance and efficiency. In this application, there’s a 2.0-litre turbocharged motor under the bonnet (anoraks will note it’s the EA888 unit, as found in the Volkswagen Golf GTI). In this derivative, the motor produces 140 kW and 320 Nm.
Does the BMW 330d strike the perfect balance between fuel efficiency and a thrilling driving experience? And, if so, could it be the best 3 Series derivative? Whereas the upper end of the business class sedan market used to be dominated by 6-cylinder motors, the 330d, with a 3.0-litre straight six turbodiesel motor under its bonnet, is now the odd one out – its direct rivals have 2.0-litre 4-cylinder powerplants.
Nonetheless, at the 330d's price point, a performance-oriented turbodiesel derivative is particularly appealing when you factor in the fuel economy advantage it offers over a similar-capacity turbopetrol engine. Bear in mind that the car is reported to have a 5.6 second 0-100 kph time and an average claimed fuel consumption of just 4.9 L/100 km!
Volkswagen is a much-loved brand in South Africa, but the Wolfsburg-based firm has yet to convince local car buyers that it should be taken seriously in all of the premium segments. The latest Passat, however, represents such a convincing stab at the heart of the Business Class, that we believe it deserves a shot at the crown.
This derivative is fitted with the top-of-the-range 2.0-litre turbopetrol engine. It produces peak outputs of 162 kW and 250 Nm of torque and is mated with a refined 6-speed DSG transmission. These outputs are higher than of those cars priced around it, and consequently, this Passat has decidedly performance-oriented feel. It blitzes the 0-100 kph sprint in a claimed 6.7 seconds and reportedly has a top speed of nearly 250 kph!
The Volvo XC90 has received various updates, including improvements to its semi-autonomous capability and the introduction of PowerPulse engine technology to the range.
The vehicle already had a fair degree of autonomous capability, which has now been increased thanks to Pilot Assist technology enhancements. Previously, the XC90 was able to follow vehicles in front of it and could steer as well as accelerate and brake autonomously at speeds of up to 50 kph. With the latest upgrade, the Volvo can recognise and adhere to lane/road markings and dynamically follow traffic in its path at speeds of up to 130 kph.
As always, Volvo (following the lead of virtually all other premium vehicle manufacturers) is not marketing this as a fully autonomous driving system, but rather as a driver aid. A driver is still required to keep their hands on the wheel and pay full attention to the road. Fully autonomous driving is still some way away, but after sampling the first generation of Pilot Assist, we were very impressed and can't wait to try the new technology.
The second big change has occurred under the bonnet. PowerPulse technology utilises compressed air to spin up the turbocharger, thereby minimising turbo lag. There's always that slight pause in a turbocharged car before all the motor's performance is realised, and PowerPulse aims to ensure that the engine is responsive wherever it might be in its rev range.
The compressed air is stored in a 2.0-litre tank, which automatically recharges after each discharge. With this anti-lag system in place, Volvo is claiming an increase in the XC90 D5 all-wheel drive's outputs (173 kW and 480 Nm, compared with 165 kW and 470 Nm) and the claimed average fuel consumption has dropped slightly from 5.8 to 5.7 L/100 km.
Volvo XC90 Price in South Africa
The 2017 Volvo XC90 is now available at your local dealerships and the price includes a 5-year/100 000 km warranty and maintenance plan, as well as a 5-year/unlimited mileage roadside assistance plan. The prices below include VAT, but exclude C02 emissions.
All The New Cars – Paris Motor Show 2016 (UPDATED)
The Paris International Motor Show is taking place early in October, with the press days occurring in the last few days of September. Cars.co.za will be there to bring you the latest releases and news, but for now, here are the cars you can look forward to reading more about in the coming weeks. Most of them will find their way to South Africa eventually.
From a small city slicker such as the Suzuki Ignis, to an exotic like the LaFerrari Spyder, the upcoming Paris Motor Show looks set to offer a feast for the world's car enthusiasts. Cars.co.za will be there to bring you the freshest news as it unfolds, but if you can't wait, here's a preview that will be updated as new information becomes available.
Alfa Romeo Stelvio
Photo by S.B. Medien/S.Baldauf
The (latest) great Alfa Romeo revival continues with the debut of the Stelvio crossover, but whether it will actually be shown for the first time in Paris remains to be seen. The Stelvio is based on the same Giorgio platform as the Giulia and is crucial to the company's growth plan, given the world's obsession with SUVs and crossovers at present. It will likely share most of the Giulia's engines and transmissions, too and there could even be a very hot Quadrifoglio version. Hold thumbs… The Stelvio will compete against the likes of the Audi Q5, BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC.
The second-generation version of the long-serving but very popular Q5 is ready for production. This is a very important model for Audi, as it competes in a fiercely contested segment against the likes of the Range Rover Evoque, BMW X3and new Mercedes-Benz GLC.
The new Q5 rides on the MLB Evo platform that also underpins the new A4 and A5. Front and all-wheel drive versions will again be offered, and the new Q5 is likely to be significantly lighter than its predecessor as a result. As our spy photos show, the new model doesn’t look too massively different from its predecessor, with Audi relying once more on the detailing of the edgier grille and lights to set it apart. Inside, the Q5 follows in the footsteps of other new or upcoming Audis in that it will use the TT’s Virtual Cockpit and adapt a smart info-tainment system developed in conjunction with Google.
The engine line-up is likely to remain largely similar to what is on offer at the moment (2,0-litre turbopetrol, 2,0-litre turbodiesel and 3,0-litre turbodiesel), but there could be a flagship model with a third turbocharger. A hot SQ5 will again be offered (with around 255kW), but a RS Q5 will also likely be added to the line-up at a later stage and could pack as much as 335kW!
The new Q5 will debut in South Africa during 2017.
Audi A5/S5 Sportback
Audi says that the new A5 Sportback will feature high levels of interior comfort with the latest infotainment features as well revised suspension and engines, while also offering the latest driver assistance systems. The Ingolstadt-based brand will also showcase the new A5 Sportback g-tron, fitted with a 125 kW 2.0-litre TFSI engine that can be fuelled with Audi e-gas, natural gas or standard petrol.
As for the new S5 Sportback, a new turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 with 264 kW and 500 Nm of torque will power the model, representing a power increase of 15 kW compared with the outgoing S5 Sportback. The sprint from 0-100 kph will take a claimed 4.7 seconds before reaching a limited top speed of 250 kph.
BMW looks set to miniaturize its X3/X4 and X5/X6 recipe by developing a swoopy X2 derivative of the X1. It could even be offered in three-door form, like a Range Rover Evoque. It shares a platform with the all-new Mini Countryman, and most of the drivetrains will be shared with that new model, too.
Citroën C3
The all-new Citroën C3 looks like an interesting newcomer in the competitive B-segment, where it competes against the likes of the VW Polo, Ford Fiesta and Opel Corsa in Europe. However, it is an unlikely starter in South Africa, given the fact that the Citroën brand will be taking somewhat of a back seat to Peugeot, as the local importers attempt to rebuild that brand's presence in this country.
If you haven't ordered your LaFerrari Spyder yet, then you're fresh out of luck, as the entire production run has already been sold. Still… Ferrari will be showing off its latest creation in Paris, so we'll be able to find out exactly how many they will make, and how they've managed to keep the torsional rigidity exactly the same as in the coupé model. Its 6.3-litre V12 engine and battery pack/electric motor combination delivers a whopping 708 kW.
The facelifted Hyundai "Grand i10" has undergone a serious facelift – as far as updates go. We use the Korean car's name in quotes because although the model is known as the i10 in Europe, on the local market the previous generation soldiers on as the i10, while this version (specified to the requirements of our market), is known as the Grand i10. Major areas of improvement include the exterior design, safety specifications and a new infotainment system.
The Grand i10 will make its debut in South Africa around March or April next year (2017), but the line-up's specs have not been confirmed.
The new Hyundai i30 has finally been officially revealed and the 2016 Paris Motor Show will give many of the world's media its first close encounter with a car that Hyundai claims will mark a significant step up in terms of technology and quality. At this point it is not clear whether the Golf GTI-rivalling i30N will be making an appearance, but we wouldn't bet against it – at least in near production-ready, concept form.
The new i30 will be produced in South Korea and the Czech Republic and you can expect to see it in South Africa in the second quarter of 2017.
The new Rio promises to up the style factor even more than the still pretty current model.
Confirmed for its first global showing is the fourth-generation Kia Rio, a vehicle that will bring the Korean brand back into play in the fiercely contested B-segment hatchback market. It won't only look even better, but expect a big step up in terms of interior materials and technology.
A colleague of our Brazilian correspondent Gustavo Henrique Ruffo has photographed an undisguised version of the upcoming Jeep Compass in São Paulo, ahead of its anticipated debut at the Paris Motor Show. The vehicle, previously known only as project 551, was apparently developed in Brazil and its world launch is also expected to happen in the South American country. It is the third spinoff on the small crossover/SUV platform that underpins the Renegade and Fiat 500X, which are built at FCA’s Mirafiori plant. The biggest physical difference is that the Compass is about 170 mm longer than the Renegade.
This teaser image of the next-generation Land Rover Discovery was released early in September 2016.
One of the world's most-loved large, luxury SUVs will be replaced at the Paris Motor Show when Land Rover whips the covers off the new Discovery. With a design that follows very much in the footsteps of recent offerings such as the Discovery Sport and Range Rover Sport, the Discovery does, however, look set to retain its emphasis on practicality and off-road ability. Most of Land Rover's latest technology will be offered on the newcomer, and it will also be a lot lighter, so expect big advances in claimed fuel economy. We expect the new Discovery to become available in South Africa in the first half of 2017.
Lexus UX Concept
Could this be a more upmarket version of the upcoming Toyota CH-R? We believe it could be…
An image of Lexus’ UX Concept crossover has leaked on the internet. All will be revealed in Paris, but f you consider that the UX200, UX250 and UX250h monikers were recently trademarked in Europe, we could see a new premium small crossover from Lexus – ostensibly a rival to the Audi Q2 – very soon.
Mercedes-Benz GLT
Photo by S.Baldauf/S.B. Medien
Rumours suggest that Mercedes-Benz will show a concept previewing its eagerly anticipated GLT Double-Cab bakkie in Paris. Largely based on the new Nissan Navara, the GLT (which could also end up being called the X-Class) is the first Mercedes-Benz leisure Double Cab and will feature a range of 4- and 6-cylinder turbopetrol and turbodiesel engines, and AMG versions should not be discounted. We anticipate the newcomer's arrival in South Africa to happen early in 2018.
The successor to the XR-PHEV, first seen at the 2013 Tokyo Auto Show, the new concept will showcase the Japanese manufacturer's lastest plug-in hybrid technology as well as in-car connected technology, while incorporating several (potential) styling cues of future Mitsubishi products.
What a transformation! From frumpy quasi-MPV to stylish crossover, the new Peugeot 3008 looks set to make a significantly bigger dent in the market. It has already been confirmed for the South African market and should reach our shores in the first quarter of 2017. A full range of petrol and diesel engines are likely to be offered and the cabin is apparently not only more tech-laden than before, but also more spacious. An even more stylish GT version will also be shown in Paris, and should also make the journey to South African dealerships.
Porsche's new Panamera was revealed (digitally at least) a few months ago, but for most of the world the Paris Motor Show will be the first opportunity to judge whether the new design is as significant a step forward as it appears to be.
With new direct-injection engines that offer more power, yet improved frugality, as well as a tech-laden interior with touchscreens and touch-sensitive panels, the second-generation Panamera looks set to continue in the successful footsteps of its predecessor, of which more than 150 000 were sold worldwide. Expect this car to arrive in South Africa during the first quarter of 2017.
The big news on the Renault stand – at least from a South African point of view – will be the brand's first double-cab bakkie, the Alaskan. Based on the underpinnings of the upcoming new Nissan Navara, the Alaskan is likely to be another new entrant in the increasingly contested leisure double-cab segment. It is likely to be powered by a twin-turbodiesel 2.3-litre 4-cylinder engine.
Renault South Africa says it's too early to start talking about launch dates, but it is defnitely interested in launching the Alaskan in South Africa. We predict a South African introduction around mid-2017.
Renault's Romanian subsidiary Dacia is gearing up to showcase the facelifted Sandero and Sandero Stepway in Paris. Imagine Renault emblems on the vehicles pictured here… that is what the SA-bound cars will look like.
Suzuki Ignis
The cute little Suzuki Ignis crossover is apparently under consideration for South African introduction in 2017. If it arrives, it would compete against, primarily, the Volkswagen Cross Up! and Mahindra KUV100. In Europe it is likely to be offered as a "mild" hybrid or a 1.2-litre petrol.
Volkswagen’s new electric vehicle concept is said to usher in a whole new era for Volkswagen where its focus will be on EVs. Volkswagen expects the concept to be a Golf-sized vehicle, but with the interior space of something like a Passat. The MEB platform (Volkswagen electric car platform) is said to place the batteries in an innovative way that creates more room inside the cabin.
Volvo V90 Cross Country
Not only is it a station wagon, it's a large, premium one… but Volvo's bringing it to South Africa nonetheless.
According to Volvo, the importance of the Cross Country versions in its model range has been growing for some time. Of course, in Europe station wagons remain popular, but even there the success of SUVs and crossovers have dented the market. It makes only sense that endowing the traditional station wagon with some crossover appeal would be met with at least a degree of success. Well, station wagon fans rejoice! Volvo has confirmed V90 Cross Country version of its new V90 will be made available in South Africa… judging on Ciro de Siena's positive remarks about the S90, we can't wait to see it.
The fiery-mouthed F-type transforms from stylish sportscar to fun track-day tool.
Design, like art, may be a naturally divisive subject, but it would be hard for anyone to argue against the Jaguar F-Type being one of the most gorgeous cars on the planet. Its smooth, curvy lines meet up with piercing taillights and a side profile that’s so perfectly proportioned it will make you want to pull down those family photos in your living room and replace them with a big motivational F-Type poster. Stand behind this new F-Type SVR with its rear wing erect and tell me you don’t see devil horns protruding from the edges. The taillights even look like evil, demonic eyes. This car is bad… but the good kind of bad, and that's before you get behind the wheel.
Devil horns on demon eyes. Jaguar living up to its slogan, "it's good to be bad"
The SVR I'm stepping into is the only one in the country, used as a marketing tool to promote the SVR badge as an AMG, M and RS competitor. The engineers haven’t gone overboard with the power increase, it’s a meagre 18 kW and 20 Nm. The weight saving on this car is around 50 kg due to the carbon ceramic brakes, carbon fibre roof and carbon interior trim. The hard work has gone into the aerodynamics and suspension. Jaguar claims the SVR creates zero lift but in V-Max mode (the rear wing folds down) it will top 200 mph (320 kph). Contrary to everything manufacturers usually say about performance suspension, Jaguar has made the front end slightly softer but the rear firmer. They say this promotes better turn in. Finally, just in case you couldn’t hear the exhaust system on the standard F-type V8, Jag has made sure the flaps inside the exhaust open up at a lower RPM and let rip with even louder ferocity.
Exhaust is made from Titanium and Inconel (space ship superalloy) and saves 16 kg over the standard exhaust
Seated behind the steering wheel, a notable change is that leather has been replaced with sporty Alcantara but it’s business as usual as far as design goes. The infotainment screen has some added features to track your lap times, check how many Gs you’ve pulled in the corners and your throttle and brake applications can be monitored, too.
We had a chance to spend some laps at Kyalami with an instructor beside us. Right from the first go, the louder exhaust gets your adrenal levels rocketing. Instantly, you’re more attuned to the finite changes on the SVR. The gearbox is quicker, in both up, and down shifts. The steering feels heavier but faster. The AWD F-Type’s steering can feel light and vague on track but this SVR is communicative with perfect heft. The small power increase is noticeable in the mid-range out of corners, it does everything just that little bit faster. The suspension delivers the biggest surprise, under braking the SVR feels alive, even a little bit loose, like it could break away at any second and send you farming. It won’t though, it’s all part of the engineers plan to get the SVR into a prime position to arrow into the apex quicker. It’s impressive to watch it work but, don’t waste too much time in awe as you can floor the throttle earlier with the increased aero pushing the SVR into the tarmac like it’s being stood on by the Hulk’s giant foot.
SVR makes good use of additional aero features in order to improve corner speed.
The Pirelli P Zero tyres just hold on and are prone to overheating quickly under this sort of continuous pressure. An upgrade to the P Zero Corsa tyres may be just what the SVR needs if it wants to be more than a one lap specialist.
Our time in the SVR is over all too soon but it leaves a lasting impression. For what is essentially an add-on pack for an F-type AWD, it feels like so much more than that. The bark is louder but so is the bite. It’s a proper sportscar with racing pedigree. I’d love to see it up against an Audi R8 V10 or the McLaren 570S to evaluate just how good it is as an all-round powerhouse. You can pick up an F-Type SVR for R2 134 100 which, puts it a fair chunk below the price of an R8 and McLaren 570S.
Twelve mighty supercars line up on a deserted runway, only one can drive away with the title. Place your bets!
We love a good drag race here at Cars.co.za, especially on a Monday morning and even though it’s not our own, it’s great to watch the world’s best supercars battle it out on the tar for supremacy.
In the 6th iteration of the hugely popular Motor Trend World’s greatest drag race, twelve supercars go head-to-head in a show of power.
The supercars vying for top spot include:
McLaren 570S
Acura NSX
Audi R8 V10 Plus
Nissan GT-R
Jaguar F-Type SVR
Mercedes-Benz AMG GT S
Dodge Viper ACR
Dodge Charger Hellcat
Porsche 911
BMW M4 GTS
Chevrolet Camaro SS 1LE
Ford Mustang Shelby GT350R
Kia will be showcasing its new turbo-powered Soul at the Paris Motor Show this week!
Kia’s polarising yet practical Soul crossover will be shown at the Paris Motor Show donning a new look and sporting a 1.6-litre T-GDI engine and 7-speed dual clutch transmission. The four-cylinder 1.6-litre turbopetrol unit produces 150 kW and pushes the Soul to 100 kph in under 8 seconds and on to a top speed of 196 kph.
In terms of styling, the turbo Soul is differentiated with a redesigned front bumper, new air intakes, dual exhaust system and rides on 18-inch wheels. The updated Soul also benefits from new LED daytime running lights, a new grille design and a revised rear bumper.
On the inside, the Kia Soul’s infotainment system will feature Apple CarPlay and Android Auto while the turbo Soul will also sport a black and orange interior colour scheme.
We will keep you updated as more information becomes available regarding availability in South Africa, stay tuned!
Hidden in the shadows of its illustrious M3/M4 siblings sits the svelte, but rapid and entertaining 440i coupe. Could it be the ultimate modern-day Q-car?
We like: Performance, dynamics, surprisingly spacious, relaxed tourer
We don't like: Could be a little more special inside
Alternatives
A new rival from 'Benz: German rival Mercedes-AMG has just launched the C43 Coupe on the South African market, and while we have yet to test this model, it appears impressive on paper. Powered by a new turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 that delivers superior power and torque (270 kW/520 Nm) the C43 also makes use of 4Matic all-wheel drive to lay its power down. It's a little faster to 100 kph than the BMW, too.
Full-house cruiser: If your preference is more for a sophisticated, luxurious cruiser, then the Lexus RC350 F-Sport deserves a closer look. Its silky smooth naturally aspirated 3.5-litre 6-cylinder engine can't quite compete on power (233 kW and 378 Nm), so it lags in the performance stakes, but what you do get is an impeccably finished car, loaded with all the features as standard and great long-distance comfort.
Can you wait a few months? The all-new Audi S5 Coupe has been revealed in Europe and should reach South African shores within the next few months. The slick newcomer is powered by a turbocharged 6-cylinder engine that delivers a strong 260 kW, coupled with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
BMW made a few tweaks to its pretty 4 Series line-up earlier this year, with most of the engines being slightly upgraded to push out more power. BMW used the opportunity to rename some of the models, with the 440i you see here being the flagship if you discount the M4. The 440i is aimed at buyers who want significant helpings of the performance and dynamism that BMW products are known for, but also a greater emphasis on ride comfort, refinement and "fly-under-the-radar" appeal than the M cars can deliver.
How does it fare in…
Performance and Efficiency
Internally known as the B58, the 440i's turbocharged straight-six is part of BMW's new modular engine line-up.
Underneath the long, heavy bonnet of the 440i is one of BMW's new modular engines. It is code-named the B58 and replaces the respected N55. Like its predecessor, it is a straight-six cylinder powerplant, 3.0-litres in size and boasts single, twin-scroll turbocharging and direct injection. It pumps out a whopping 240 kW and 450 Nm of torque, with the latter figure being available across a wide rev band that stretches from 1 380 to 5 000 rpm. It is red-lined at a heady 7 000 rpm.
Mated with BMW's creamy smooth (but quick and decisive) 8-speed automatic transmission, the 440i can leap to 100 kph in 5 seconds flat. That, by the way, means that this car is faster than an E46 generation M3 equipped with the SMG 'box… So, it doesn't exactly hang about. Nevertheless, the 440i's performance is an ability that is there for you to tap into when needed, while in the M4 the performance ability is always there, in your face, begging to be exploited. By comparison, the 440i is quite willing to trundle around town quietly, smoothly and efficiently. BMW claims a combined cycle fuel consumption figure of 6.6 L/100 km for this model, which is comfortably better than what the competition can do.
Being a 6-cylinder, the engine also endows the 440i with a bit of BMW character that is fast becoming extremely rare. Yes, the turbocharging does rob this engine of a howling top-end, even near that 7 000 rpm redline, but there's enough of its typical warble left to make the 440i a pleasure to listen to. It's completely different to the overly aggressive roaring of the recent M division cars.
So, what you have here then is a car that is deceptively fast (because it is also so refined), and one that offers significant drivetrain engagement and entertainment should you be in the right mood (and driving mode). Yet it is also a car that doesn't scream "go faster" all the time.
Design & Packaging
Striking 18-inch wheels and subtle M Sport bodykit add to the 4 Series' inherent appeal.
The 4 Series coupe is arguably one of the most attractive and balanced designs in the BMW stable at present, and this 440i's M Sport package adds just enough visual muscle to the otherwise svelte body shape. There is nothing garish or outlandish, just tasteful detailing that emphasises the sporting bent of this particular model. Aerodynamic addenda includes front and rear aprons, a rear diffuser insert and sill covers. Most of the "accessories" are in body colour, but the subtle use of gloss black here and there adds to the visual appeal. Our model was finished in a very attractive metallic Estoril Blue paint finish. This model also rides on striking 18-inch wheels as standard. Our test car turned numerous heads during its time with us.
Surprising space in the rear makes the 440i a talented tourer for four occupants.
Inside, too, the changes compared with the 4 Series launch models are limited, but we do appreciate the finer attention to detail. The more modern M steering wheel is very attractive, and the leather-upholstered front sport seats are inviting. BMW offers a vast number of further options, including having the entire fascia covered in leather (R13 900 option). And while strictly speaking the infotainment system shouldn't be classified under "design", it has to be said that the presence of the comprehensive 3D Professional system, with its large, crisp, split-screen display does heighten the sense of modernity in a cabin that is otherwise somewhat staid in appearance.
In terms of packaging, the 4 Series is one of the few coupes with genuinely usable rear-seat space. Swing open those long doors, flip the front seatbacks forward and entry will require some bending, but once seated occupants are often amazed at the amount of rear legroom on offer. Of course, taller folk may struggle with headroom, but for what it is, the 440i is as practical as coupes come. The boot measures a claimed 445 litres, which is bigger than what's on offer from the competition, too.
Ride & Handling
It may not be an "M", but the 440i delivers more than enough dynamic thrills.
With its standard M Sport suspension and low-profile rubber the 440i may appear somewhat uncompromising in terms of ride set-up, but the reality is a car that can comfortably be driven daily. The key word during its development appears to have been "balance". Unlike many fast BMWs, the 440i isn't consistently egging on its driver to go faster – it's a vehicle that is comfortable with whatever speed you want to go. You'll have to pay R11 350 extra if you want the adaptive suspension, but we rate the standard set-up highly. The suspension seems to cope with most road conditions well, with only extremely coarse or uneven surfaces catching it out. Out on the open road and at higher speed, it feels unflappable, supple and poised.
The steering set-up – like the engine and suspension – seemingly attempts to camouflage the dynamic and performance talents that are on offer here. It's not particularly sharp in feel around the straight-ahead where you'd be most of the day if you're just pottering about. However, get involved on a series of twisty bends and it will delight with its weighting and speed.
Standard Features
Standard on this 440i model is the full 3D Professional infotainment system.
BMW and its fellow German premium brands are often criticised for their sparse standard equipment lists, but to be fair this 440i M Sport seems to pick most of the must-have boxes. We've already mentioned the leather upholstery and 3D Professional infotainment system (which includes 20Gb of music storage). You also get a 205 W hi-fi loudspeaker system, the ConnectedDrive services, rear park-distance control (with camera view), electric seat adjustment with memory, cruise control with a braking function, rain-sensing wipers, auto lights and automatic air-conditioning, amongst others.
Some of the options aren't even that expensive; a Harmon Kardon sound system is yours for R5 100 and Active Cruise Control costs a reasonable R15 300.
Pricing & Warranty
The BMW 440i Coupe M-Sport sells for R851 376 and comes backed with a 2-years/unlimited km warranty and 5-years/100 000 km maintenance plan.
Verdict
While a coupe as visually arresting (and pricey) as the BMW 440i M Sport can't easily be described as a "sleeper" or Q-car, there is nevertheless an element of surprise about its abilities that will catch out many drivers of flashier cars. There is immense depth to the abilities on offer here, but arguably the 440i's greatest talent is its adaptability. It's a car that can merely be a sophisticated, stylish way of getting to work and back on a daily basis, yet when the mood grabs you, will deliver sportscar-slaying performance and (almost) sports car dynamics. Need a car to take three friends on a long-distance trip in comfort and luxury? The 440i will do that as well; It just somehow manages to always rise to whichever occasion presents itself. A real charmer, this…
The facelifted Alfa Romeo Giulietta will be launched in South Africa in October 2016. Take a look at specs and pricing for the compact premium hatch below.
The revised Giulietta features a sporty design, emphasised by its honeycomb grille and a new front bumper that resembles the iconic trefoil. The model sports a refreshed logo, polished headlights, new bumper inserts, unique alloy rims and oblique tailpipes.
Giulietta trim levels
The model will be offered in 3 trim levels including Giulietta, Giulietta Super and Giulietta Veloce.
The entry-level Giulietta trim level offers grey and black fabric seats, a matte black dashboard, leather steering wheel and black inserts on the tunnel and door handles.
The mid-spec Giulietta Super trim offers the new Alfa Romeo trademark grey and black fabric "cannelloni-pattern" seats. Leather trim is optional on the Giulietta and Giulietta Super derivatives.
The Giulietta Veloce is the sportiest offering and features new sports bumpers with Alfa Red profiles, carbon-look headlights, glossy anthracite accents on the mirrors, door handles, the grille and fog light surrounds.
The interior is kitted out in leather-and-Alcantara-trimmed sports seats with contrasting red stitching and "Alfa Romeo" embossed on the front head restraints. A contoured leather steering wheel (also with contrasting red stitching) is fitted and the dashboard exhibits a carbon-look finish surround, which is repeated on the door panels while Matt grey inserts round off the interior styling.
Engine choices
The Giulietta will be powered by three turbopetrol engines including an 89 kW 1.4, 112 kW 1.4 MultiAir TCT (auto) and 179 kW 1750 TCT (auto).
