Extended Test: Mazda CX-3 2.0 Individual auto [Video]
We’ve conducted a month-long test of the CX-3 small crossover to see if it blends style, sophistication and practicality as well as Mazda claims. Could this fashionable compact family car serve many purposes… is the automatic economical… and what's it like to live with? Let’s find out.
Update: Local specs and official pricing for Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport
The Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport will be launched in South Africa on 1 July 2016. We will be attending the launch so keep a look out for our upcoming First Drive soon thereafter.
This bespoke model was created to honour the iconic Golf GTI and it does so beautifully. The GTI Clubsport is fitted with a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine that churns out 195 kW with an overboost function that pushes that output up to a heady 213 kW for short periods of time. The extra boost of power is activated by pushing the throttle right to the floor, engaging the kickdown function. Volkswagen claims it will generate the extra kilowatts for up to 10 seconds. Torque is also slightly increased during this boost phase from 350 Nm to 380 Nm. Zero to 100 kph is dispatched in 5.9 seconds and it will top out at 249 kph. Volkswagen only offer the DSG gearbox in the Clubsport model in conjunction with its electronic differential. The Clubsport is also fitted with its very own launch control system that automatically sets the revs at 3 000 rpm before launching it off the line.
The Clubsport takes the Golf GTI's sport chassis one step further by specifically tuning the dampers and springs for improved handling. The aerodynamics have also been fettled with in order to improve agility, stability and improve grip in corners. As an option, drivers can spec the dynamic chassis control system. The system further enhances the electronics in order to improve the Clubsport's handling and precision in the corners. Other options include the Discover Pro Radio with satellite navigation system, Light Assist with dynamic high beam control, DynAudio Excite sound system, Keyless Access – keyless locking and engine starting system, panoramic tilt sunroof, Park Distance Control (Rear),19-inch alloy wheels, Clubsport racing bucket seats, Velour/cloth sport seats with GTI logo on backrest and Rear View camera.
In terms of styling, the GTI Clubsport gains sportier front and rear bumpers with new side sills (embossed with the word 'Clubsport'), diffuser and rear spoiler. Other details include a black trim stripe down the side of the car, dark red LED tail lights and chrome-plated exhaust tips.
Golf GTI Prices
2.0 TSI 162 kW Manual
R465 500
2.0 TSI 162 kW DSG
R481 500
2.0 TSI 169 kW Performance Pack DSG
R501 500
2.0 TSI 195 kW Clubsport DSG
R540 200
The new Golf GTI Clubsport comes standard with a 5-year/90 000km service plan and 3-year/120 000km warranty.
Previously…
Volkswagen looks set to introduce a facelifted Golf 7 in Europe this year and will also unveil the production version of the Golf R400 concept.
Before you get too excited, though, Volkswagen South Africa has not yet confirmed that these developments will have an impact on the local market in 2016… but has, however, committed to launching the Golf GTI Clubsport, probably around mid-year.
Volkswagen Golf facelift
Exterior changes to the Volkswagen Golf are expected to be relatively minor and you can expect to see revised bumpers and the adoption of more LED technology throughout the car. The biggest changes will occur inside the cabin and it’s here where Volkswagen will, in all likelihood, spruce things up a bit with updated material and colour combinations. The facelifted Golf is expected to feature a fully digital instrument cluster, similar to the Active Info Display system that was introduced in the latest Volkswagen Passat.
Volkswagen’s new MIB infotainment system with a 9.2-inch touchscreen and voice control will provide higher resolution, better graphics and faster processing speeds. Last year, the Wolfsburg-based firm confirmed the facelifted Golf would feature intuitive Gesture Control Technology that enables the driver to operate a variety of onboard functions with basic hand gestures. The technology first featured in the Golf R Touch Concept, which was displayed at the 2015 Consumer Electronics Show.
On the engine front, not much is expected to change, at least initially, but Volkswagen has confirmed that it will be replacing the familiar 1.4 TSI engine with a turbocharged 1.5-litre engine featuring cylinder deactivation. A lighter, more fuel efficient 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine will replace the 1.6 TDI in Europe with a rollout expected sometime in 2017.
Volkswagen Golf R420
Based on the current Golf R, the Golf R400 Concept was first shown at the 2014 Beijing Motor Show and Volkswagen is preparing to introduce the Golf R420 production version this year. Engine details for the production version have yet to be confirmed but the Golf R400 Concept was fitted with the same four-cylinder 2.0-litre turbopetrol engine as the Golf R, but with a modified turbocharger and a 6-speed DSG transmission.
Outputs for the concept were no less than 294 kW and 450 Nm of torque. Of course, Volkswagen may also opt to utilise the five-cylinder 2.5-litre turbo engine that powers the Audi RS3 (270 kW and 465 Nm of torque), but we will just have to wait and see.
In terms of performance, the Golf R420 with 4MOTION four-wheel drive will be able to dash from zero to 100 kph in about 3.9 seconds, which is a full second quicker than the Golf R.
Mitsubishi Pajero Legend II in SA
Mitsubishi South Africa has introduced the Pajero Legend II limited edition to market and it will be available from dealers at end of June 2016.
Mitsubishi’s popular Pajero SUV line-up has been bolstered with the addition of the Pajero Legend II limited edition, which follows in the footsteps of the Pajero Legend 30-Years that launched locally in 2012. The Legend II will be offered with both long and short wheelbase variants and will be fitted with numerous off-road appointments that will appeal to 4×4 enthusiasts.
“The Pajero has become synonymous with an adventure lifestyle and it remains unique, thanks to its combination of modern luxuries and tried-and-trusted mechanics. It is Mitsubishi’s legacy model and it will remain a mainstay of the brand’s product offering to off-road and adventure enthusiasts,” says Braam Faul, Marketing Manager of Mitsubishi South Africa.
Extra features, more value
The Pajero Legend II LWB is derived from the current top-of-the-range Exceed derivative and comes fitted with R50 000 worth of extra equipment including a under-body protection plate, rock sliders and dual-purpose Yokohama Geolander tyres on 18-inch rims.
The Pajero Legend II SWB gets the same treatment but the rock sliders don’t feature on this variant. A total of R40 000 of extras are fitted to this derivative.
Both models are also fitted with a heavy-duty Bosal tow bar and a chrome Pajero-stamped nudge bar.
On the inside, the Pajero Legend II is equipped with a Garmin nüviCam (with magnetic mount and built-in dash cam) and a Tracks4Africa off-road map. A full set of hard-wearing mats is also included.
If you wish to customise your Pajero Legend II even further, a host of additional features are available to you such as shock absorbers (Tough Dog), roof racks (Front Runner), discharge headlights (Light Force), air compressor, snatch recovery kit, Caska navigation and infotainment system, headlight projectors, bonnet guard and a cooler fridge.
All additional parts are fitted by Mitsubishi technicians and carry the brands’ respective warranty and will not compromise the Pajero’s 100 000 km warranty.
The range of off-road accessories are sourced from reputable overland specialists, Opposite Lock (Australia) and Front Runner South Africa, with cosmetic accessories sourced from Mitsubishi’s catalogue.
Standard Features
The Pajero Legend II is fitted with heated leather seats. The driver’s seat is electrically adjustable, while the front passenger seat is also electrically adjustable in the long wheelbase version. The steering wheel is a combination of wood and leather with mounted controls. A Bluetooth and USB compatible touchscreen infotainment system along with a reverse camera is included, as is parking sensors. The interior also benefits from a double-volume glass sunroof and rear privacy glass.
Safety features include six airbags, ABS with EBD, brake assist, traction control, and stability control. ISOFIX mounts are included to mount child seats in the rear.
Engine Power
A proven 3.2-litre turbodiesel engine does service in the Pajero Legend II and offers 140 kW and 441 Nm of torque. A five-speed automatic transmission powers the rear wheels under normal driving conditions, while Mitsubishi’s Super Select II 4WD system offers additional driving modes such as 4H, 4HLc and 4LLc to tackle rough terrain. A rear differential lock further improves the off-road ability of the Pajero Legend II.
Mitsubishi Pajero Legend II – Price in South Africa
Mitsubishi Pajero Legend II LWB – R759 900
Mitsubishi Pajero Legend II SWB – R659 900
Price includes a 3-year/100 000 km warranty and 5-year/100 00km maintenance plan. Service intervals are se at 10 000 km.
There are plenty of brands and models to choose from in the South African new vehicle market, but the rest of the world also has some special cars that we’re itching to get our hands on…
Tesla Model S/X
The hype around these vehicles is massive and while the rest of the world cruises around in the assortment of Model S and Model X Teslas, we’re left with… nothing. Tesla is setting up an office in South Africa and the company's founder Elon Musk did recently say the new Tesla Model 3 will be offered in our market, but we’re going to have to wait a long time. We predict the earliest the 3 would make landfall in South Africa would be 2020…
Dodge Charger Hellcat (or any other muscle car for that matter)
The Ford Mustang landed in South Africa towards the end of 2015 and local enthusiasts are positively enthralled by this American muscle car icon. However, there’s more than one musclecar manufacturer in the world. Chevrolet Corvette and Camaro? Dodge Challenger and Charger? We’d love to see them here too. A Hellcat would quite easily be one of the most powerful vehicles sold in South Africa…
BMW’s all-wheel drive xDrive technology is available in SA, but only in SUVs and crossovers. In Europe, you can purchase an xDrive-equipped hatchback (1-Series), sedan (3-,5- and 7 Series), coupe (2-, 4- and 6-Series). An xDrive-equipped BMW will be a little faster in terms of acceleration, but the real benefit would be additional traction in low-grip conditions, which will benefit handling and, importantly, safety. Overseas there’s a majestic product called the BMW M550d xDrive. Imagine having a tri-turbodiesel all-wheel-drive Autobahn-storming sedan like that?
The best-selling American pickup truck is colossal, musclebound and offers oodles of kerb appeal. The range offers a number of (petrol-engined) derivatives and there’s a hot twin-turbo’d V6 performance version called the SVT Raptor. We’d love to see it become available in South Africa, but right-hand drive conversion would be an issue and it would probably steal a large percentage of sales from the Ford Ranger.
Forget about specific products, what about a brand? SEAT vehicles were sold in South Africa, but then they were withdrawn because the market's downturn at the end of the previous decade and price positioning. The SEAT product line-up is parallel to that of Volkswagen's, but it's edgier… each of the Spanish marque's products have a sporty disposition. They also happen to look rather dynamic. A sportier and flamboyant Volkswagen/Audi – what's not to like?
In the absence of a full-blown "R" derivative, this XF S currently headlines Jaguar's executive sedan line-up. It's quite a looker, but does it have the go to match the show?
We like: Attractive looks, ride/handling balance
We don’t like: Price, cabin doesn't look/feel special, down on performance
Alternatives:
For better performance: With a zero to 100 kph time of 4.4 seconds, the Audi S6 quattro is probably the swiftest sedan of this size (and cost) that you're likely to find. By comparison, the Jaguar's claimed acceleration time of 5.3 seconds looks unimpressive, but there's still fun to be had – it is quite responsive to throttle inputs.
For a racier look and feel: At the price, you'll be hard-pressed to match this Jaguar for making a visual statement. There isn't a suitable AMG Sports derivative of the dashing new Mercedes-Benz E-Class yet. The Audi S6 quattro is the quintessential Q-car (flies under the radar). And the BMW 5 Series, even with the M-Sport package, can't quite hide its age. So… if you want your large executive sports sedan to turn heads, off to Jaguar you go.
For greater value: It's hard to argue against the numbers – the XF S is the most expensive (yet the least powerful) of the three cars listed here (BMW 550i M-Sport and Audi S6). It is the newest though, and offers the best ride/handling balance. Your priorities will ultimately dictate whether this car is worth the extra outlay.
What is an XF S?
The XF S is a striking sports sedan that offers buyers a variety of personalisation options.
Jaguar's still-fresh XF has, perhaps predictably, been warmly received in its home market (the UK). There are a number of very good reasons for this. Firstly, it is British-made, and the UK media traditionally favours wares produced in Blighty. Secondly, it is somewhat short on direct rivals – Mercedes-Benz is still rolling out its E-Class line-up; a successor to BMW's ageing 5 Series will be shown soon; the next Audi A6 is not too far off, either. And, perhaps most importantly, it is priced "logically" in the UK.
In South Africa, the plummeting value of the Rand has put Jaguar South Africa in a difficult position. Consequently, the XF's pricing positions it for a direct fight with the German premium brands that have traditionally been favoured by the local car buying public. So… the XF has to be brilliant to overcome this brand/image/pricing dilemma. And thus far, in our experience, it has only been partly successful.
In our first test of the XF 20d Prestige, we were quite impressed with the improvements Jaguar has made in terms of spaciousness and efficiency. At the price, we consider that derivative to have some merit. The sportier and pricier 25t R Sport was less successful, with its engine failing to deliver enough excitement and efficiency.
This brings us to the subject of this test, the current flagship "S" model. At a price of more than R1,2 million, does it offer the performance, excitement, luxury and exclusivity that it should?
How does it fare in terms of…
Performance?
"S" badge indicates presence of supercharged V6, delivering 280 kW.
Jaguar is already developing a ferocious "R" derivative of the XF, but until that derivative arrives, this "S" is as feisty as the XF gets. It is powered by a 3.0-litre V6 engine sporting a so-called "twin-vortex" supercharger. It pumps out 280 kW and, more importantly, 450 Nm of torque, at 4 500 rpm. These figures appear mighty impressive in isolation, but the reality is that the V8 in (cheaper) Audi S6 churns out a crushing 331 kW and 550 Nm, while the (also cheaper) 550i M Sport's V8 pushes out 330 kW and 650 Nm! So, even though the new XF makes use of a multitude of lightweight materials in its construction (it is up to 190 kg lighter than before), it still gets drilled in the benchmark 0-100 kph sprints. Jaguar claims a time of 5.3 seconds (compared with 4.4 and 4.6 for the Audi and BMW respectively). All three cars' top speeds are electronically limited to 250 kph.
Game over, then, for the XF S? Well, if you live your life one traffic light dice at a time, then yes. But there's some excitement to be had with the XF S, even though it is comparatively down on power. As ever, Jaguar's drivetrain engineers have managed to tune the car to be impressively responsive. It will dawdle along in quite a relaxed fashion all day, courtesy of that slick 8-speed ZF transmission, but once you've pressed a button or two and selected the more "enthusiastic" driving modes, the XF S tenses up noticeably and becomes super sensitive to throttle inputs… which makes it feel more powerful than it is. Using the 'shift paddles behind the steering wheel to access the spread of torque is quite enjoyable – it's just a pity the exhaust note isn't a bit more exciting.
Ultimately, then, you are possibly going to lose the race… but you may end up having more fun, not only because of the S model's responsive nature, but also because the XF offers arguably the best chassis in this segment…
Ride & handling?
Athletic looks for a superbly agile machine. The XF thrills on the road.
Recent Jaguars have been dynamically impressive, offering crisp steering and engaging handling without compromising ride quality. It is a marriage of talents that even the best (including the Germans) often struggle to achieve. For a model such as the XF S, it is vital that Jaguar continues in this tradition. And they have done exactly that!
As we've reported before, the new XF is considerably lighter than its predecessor, and stiffer by 28%, too. Plus, while overall length has gone down, it sports a longer wheelbase. The biggest news, however, is the rear suspension which is borrowed from the XE. This new "Integral Link" rear axle has a fifth, vertical link that is claimed to separate the longitudinal and lateral forces that are at odd in a car's suspension, especially when cornering. Consequently, the XF S offers class-leading ride and handling. In fact, even on the large 19-inch alloy wheels and low-profile rubber, the way the XF manages to offer up a supple ride around town, yet remain resistant to roll in the corners, is quite unique. This S model also features Jaguar's Adaptive Dynamics variable dampers as standard.
And as we've come to expect from Jaguar, the attention to detail in the dynamic setup is superb. The electrically assisted steering is beautifully precise and offers lovely weighting. Overall, it is hard to criticise anything about the XF S in the way it steers, rides and tackles corners. In fact, it is so entertaining when driven in an enthusiastic manner that it even manages to make up for the disappointment of the power deficit.
Cabin and features?
Cabin design is largely borrowed from the smaller XE. Trim and detailing could be improved.
Logically, the higher up one goes in the XF model range, the more special the cabin should feel and appear. Sadly, the fascia design and general fit and finish of this Jaguar's interior remain some of our biggest concerns with the second-generation XF. Visually, it appears to be lifted straight out of the smaller XE, so while some nice details (the rising gear selector, rotating outer ventilation outlets) remain, it simply doesn't feel and look special enough from behind the steering wheel. It is perhaps unfair to expect Jaguar to have made such a dramatic leap as it did when the first-generation XF arrived, but nevertheless (at the price) we feel the XF S is deserving of a bit more drama inside. Besides, the quality of some of the materials, as well as the trim detailing, is not exactly going to give the German rivals sleepless nights.
Those flaws are a pity, because there is quite a lot about the XF's cabin that right, too. With its longer wheelbase there is appreciably more space, especially for those seated in the back, and the driving position is sublime. It is also clear when one looks down at those traditional deep-set instrument dials that this Jaguar's product positioning car is somewhat different to Mercedes-Benz (E-Class) and the others. Yes, while the XF S offers a modern touchscreen and an extra digital display between its (standard) analogue dials, this car is decidedly sportier in its pitch, and it was designed to reflect that. It is when one starts appreciating this distinction and positioning, that the XF makes more sense. But note that, should you wish to add more tech to the cabin of your XF S… you can do so because Jaguar offers a very wide selection of appetising features, including digital instrumenation, head-up display, automated parking etc.
Highlights on the standard features list include a 380W Meridian sound system, 10-way electrically adjustable front seats, dual-zone climate control, navigation and an eight-inch touch-screen infotainment system.
Pricing and Warranty
The Jaguar XF S sells for R1 226 200 and comes backed with a 3-years/100 000 km warranty and 5-years/100 000 km maintenance plan. Jaguar claims an average fuel consumption of 8.3 L/100 km, which is better than its eight-cylinder rivals. However, during our test period it proved quite difficult to keep the overall consumption below 10 L/100 km.
Verdict
If one is to judge the XF S purely on what is measurable, it would fall short in a number of areas. At the price you can buy more powerful and faster luxury sedans from more widely popular German prestige brands. Also, at the price, the cabin isn't "wow" enough, especially when one considers the tech-focused direction that the Germans are taking without sacrificing their hard-won reputations for supreme quality and attention to detail. At the price... Well, it would appear that the price is simply too high a hurdle for the XF S to clear…
And yet there is something deeply charming about this car. It may not ultimately be as fast as its rivals, but it offers such delicate dynamics that it almost doesn't matter. And while the cabin falls short on quality and detail, its exterior makes head swivel. Ultimately, then, the XF S is for a buyer who craves good looks, individuality and driving enjoyment. (Even) at the price, the XF S won't disappoint on those fronts…
We've seen numerous spy pics and a teaser video of the Mercedes-AMG GT R, but this is the real deal. Delivering 430 kW and equipped with a host of upgrades, not to mention an outlandish paint finish, the GT R is the most track-focused series production Benz to date.
The striking AMG "Green Hell Magno" paint finish is bound to make onlookers do a double take. The name of this paint is the key to this vehicle's origin: Green hell is the nickname for the Nurburgring racetrack that manufacturers use to test vehicles. It's punishing and only the most hardcore race-tuned vehicles can post benchmark times around this iconic circuit.
Compared with a standard Mercedes-AMG GT there are wider front and rear wings to compensate for an increased track width, which facilitates more grip and faster cornering. The adapted front grille and rear spoiler (replete with double diffuser) optimise aerodynamics and lightweight alloy wheels with high-performance rubber add to the on-track performance. The stopping power has also been improved with high fade-resistance internally-ventilated and perforated brake discs. Ceramics are available as an option.
On the mechanical front, an adjustable traction control system, active rear-wheel steering and adjustable coil-over suspension are fitted. The 7-speed dual clutch transmission has been updated to cope with the power hike: whereas the standard engine in the AMG GT S pushes out 375 kW from a 4.0-litre biturbo V8, the GT R pumps out 430 kW and 700 Nm (the turbochargers on this model boost more than the standard car's and the management software has been remapped).
The newcomer further features an all-new exhaust system, which not only gives the car a much louder engine note but reduces its kerb weight by 6 kg. The design of the exhaust has changed slightly – it now has two infinitely variable exhaust flaps that open and close depending on which driving mode has been selected. In Sport Plus and Race modes, you get the "full artillery barrage" aural effect, while in Comfort the sound is more muted, but evocative nonetheless.
Being the ultimate incarnation of the AMG GT, performance has to be eye-opening – and it is. It'll go from zero to 100 kph in 3.6 seconds and hit 318 kph if the Autobahn is long enough. However, this vehicle's real purpose is to pound race tracks.
Mercedes-AMG GT R availability in South Africa?
The Mercedes-AMG GT R will go on sale on 21 November 2016, the firm says, and the market launch in Europe will be in March 2017. At this stage we're not sure if this new performance product will make it to South Africa, but, provided units are allocated to the local market and given how popular this sub-brand is, we'd be surprised if it wasn't confirmed.
Mini Cooper JCW Test Drive Loud, Fast and Red [Video]
This the most powerful Mini ever made. With a peak power output of 170 kW, the Cooper JCW is more powerful than a Volkswagen Golf GTI and substantially more powerful than a Ford Fiesta ST, but doesn’t really match either for size or price.
So where does this special edition Cooper fit into the hot-hatch pantheon? We sent Francisco Nwamba to a deserted country road to find out.
The second-generation Nissan Qashqai has been one of South Africa's most popular crossovers since its launch back in July 2014. Since then, Nissan South Africa has added quite a few models. Let's take a look at the line-up.
The Nissan Qashqai is a very popular compact crossover that regularly features as one of the top-selling models in its segment. Since it was launched back in 2014, it has had a few model updates and engine introductions to improve the offering. The most recent additions to the range are the 1.2-litre CVT auto and the 1.6-litre top-of-the-range turbopetrol.
The range consists of seven models with four engine options (two diesels and two petrols). The entry-level model is the 1.2-litre turbopetrol Visia that starts from R325 900. The 1.2 turbopetrol does a good job of carting the Qashqai around but struggles a bit when heavily loaded and out on the freeway. For everyday driving it’s economical, with Nissan claiming 6.2L/100km with a manual gearbox that’s light and easy to swing through the gears. Alloy wheels are an optional extra but all the basics are taken care of in terms of air conditioning, cruise control, USB and Aux connectivity and electric windows. If you want to add some of the modern niceties such as auto headlamps or climate control, there’s no choice but to move up to the Acenta derivatives.
The Acenta offering starts with the manual model at R349 900 and improves on the Visia model with standard 17-inch wheels, rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlights, dual-zone climate control and a better sound system. The Acenta models can be equipped with comprehensive optional Design and Techno packs. The Techno pack is worth the extra outlay as it adds really useful features like the 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system and the camera system that allows you to see around the entire car. Nissan Connect is also part of the Techno pack, allowing Smartphone connectivity and certain functions like Google search and Facebook are available within the touchscreen. The 1.2 Acenta is available in an auto (CVT) but costs R366 900 and drags the athletic performance back a bit.
The Qashqai remains a strong (and stylish) contender in the compact crossover segment.
The two-wheel-drive Acenta specification Qashqai is also available in a 1.5-turbodiesel model, which may just be the sweet spot in the range. It’s priced slightly higher at R376 900 but the fuel savings and added torque make for a more pleasant drive. Fuel consumption is claimed at just 4.2L/100km but you’re unlikely to match that unless you’re an experienced hypermiler.
The 1.6-litre models all get additional exterior and interior enhancements. LED headlamps are installed, 19-inch wheels are standard and there are chrome surrounds on the fog lamps and roof rails. The interior gets an intelligent key that never has to leave your pocket and a start button on the dashboard. Engine wise the 1.6-litre turbodiesel has plenty of grunt but suffers from a bit of low-down turbo lag. Unfortunately, the 1.6-litre petrol engine isn't available paired with an automatic transmission. The 1.6-litre diesel is offered with the option of a CVT (4×2) and there's also a manual only 4×4 option. The Techno pack is again available as an extra but with an additional option of heated seats.
For those waiting for the next batch of updates for the Qashqai, Nissan SA assured us that the lineup will remain unchanged for the next 12 months.
Mercedes-Benz Goes Topless with C-Class Cabriolet (Pricing Update)
Mercedes-Benz has taken a can opener to its World Car of the Year winner to deliver one of the most stylish cabriolets in the segment. And now we also know what the C-Class Cabrio will cost when it arrives in South Africa, just in time for spring!
The big news with the arrival of the new C-Class Cabriolet is, of course, its folding roof. As is the case with some other brands, the love affair with folding hard-tops appear to be over and Mercedes-Benz has stuck with the traditional fabric option for its newcomer. Mercedes-Benz claims that its fabric soft top offers optimal climate comfort and quiet-running characteristics. A number of colour options are offered, including dark brown, dark blue, dark red or black. The roof of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class Cabriolet can be opened and closed in just under 20 seconds at speeds of up to 50 kph.
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class Cabriolet boasts the company's trademark AIRSCARF system which gently blows warm air at neck level. Another notable feature is AIRCAP, which reduces the interior wind turbulence (also for the rear passengers) at the press of a button. AIRCAP and AIRSCARF are part of the Cabriolet Comfort package and Mercedes-Benz says that these two systems mean you can drop the top even in winter.
The C-Class Cabriolet also appears to offer commendable practicality. The rear seats are individual items, but there is a through-loading feature and they can be split 50:50 as well as be folded completely flat. With a cargo-carrying capacity of 360L (285L with the roof open), the boot is capable of holding a reasonable amount of luggage for a cabriolet.
Airmatic suspension means quality ride
The Cabriolet is optionally available with AIRMATIC air suspension. This is an electronically controlled, continuously adjustable damping system on the front and rear axles that also contributes to lower road noise and tyre vibration. Several driving modes are offered, including Eco, Comfort, Sport, Sport Plus and Individual. Selecting Individual allows the driver to customise the vehicle settings to suit his/her personal preferences. Suspension stiffness, transmission shift speed and engine responsiveness can be individually tweaked.
Engines and transmission options
The extensive engine line-up includes a variety of four- and six-cylinder powerplants and, for the first time, 4MATIC all-wheel drive makes its debut in this model. The petrol engine line-up stretches from the 1.6-litre four-cylinder unit in the C180 rated at 115kW to the 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine in the Mercedes-AMG C43 4MATIC Cabriolet that delivers 270kW. The C200 is optionally available with 4MATIC all-wheel drive. In terms of diesel models, a four-cylinder variant delivering 125 kW in the C220d or 150 kW in the C250d, will arguably prove the most popular. 4MATIC is available for the C220d. All derivatives can be ordered with the new 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class cabriolet price in South Africa
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class convertible will become available in South Africa during September/October 2016. The prices below include VAT and CO2 tax.
The Lexus LC500 coupe is due to arrive in South Africa early next year and it recently featured in a short film with earth-moving effects…
Based on the LF-LC concept, Lexus revealed the striking production LC500 coupe at the Detroit Motor Show earlier this year and we can’t wait for its arrival in South Africa in the first quarter of 2017.
Apart from its striking styling, the rear-wheel drive LC500 coupe is fitted with a naturally-aspirated 5.0-litre V8 that thumps out 348 kW and 527 Nm of torque through a newly developed 10-speed automatic transmission. That should be enough to move you…
The Lexus LC500 was recently showcased in a short film featuring impressive cinematography, unlike any we have seen before. The film was shot in Spain’s Sierra Nevada mountain range and the effects make it look like the LC500 coupe is moving the surrounding mountains, which is rather impressive.
The filming technique used in the film is called projection mapping and a number of ultra-bright projectors display moving images on the side of the mountain. In combination with the Lexus LC500 coupe driving along the mountain at exactly the right time, the resultant effect is quite special.
According to the producers, this type of technique has never quite been used in this way.
Watch the behind-the-scenes video below to see how the Lexus LC Into the Light video was made!
