Volkswagen South Africa has issued an official statement regarding the implications of its world-wide diesel “cheat” scandal for local customers.
Highlights
– VWSA products comply with all South African standards
– No action required from VWSA product owners
The international media has been buzzing with the Volkswagen diesel scandal in recent weeks. If you have missed out, please see our two previous reports to get up to speed.
Now Volkswagen South Africa has issued the following statement:
“There has been extensive international media coverage relating to irregularities in Nitrogen oxide emission values measured during dynamometer regarding the emission standard Euro 5 of Volkswagen diesel vehicles fitted with the type EA189 Euro 5 engines.
“In South Africa the compliance standard is EU 2. All Volkswagen Group diesel vehicles of the type EA 189 retailed in South Africa, that is, Volkswagen passenger, Audi, Light and Medium Commercial Vehicles comply with this standard for Nitrogen oxide emissions.
“We want to further confirm that the bench mode in the software does not affect negatively the CO2 values. Our vehicles accordingly comply with the published CO2 values. Furthermore they are technically safe and roadworthy.
“We would like to apologise to our customers for any uncertainty that may have been created over this issue and want to assure our valued customers, that their vehicles meet all the legal requirements in terms of which the National Regulator approved the sale for use in South Africa.
“There is therefore no action required on either the part of the customer or our dealers.”
You should also know:
The EU2 emissions standard has no specific NOx-only requirement. The only NOx-related requirement is a combination figure with Hydrocarbon (HC). The Euro2 standard (passenger cars, diesel) for this is a figure of no higher than 0.7 g/km of HC+NOx. For Euro5 compliant vehicles this requirement changes to 0.23 g/km, in addition to a NOx-specific requirement of less than 0.18 g/km.
New Car Sales Summary for September 2015
The month of September 2015 made for interesting reading in terms of new car sales. Is our market growing, or are we slowing down?
According to the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (NAAMSA), September 2015 reflected further weakening in domestic sales while record exports were experienced during the period. Figures for the month indicate that the trend of declining domestic sales became further entrenched in a difficult economic environment and the trend is likely to continue for the medium term.
Toyota was the best performing car brand for the month while the Volkswagen Polo Vivo takes top spot as South Africas best-selling car for the month.
New Car Sales Summary September 2015
55 322 aggregate new vehicle sales down by 9.0% (5 460 units) compared to September 2014.
31 181 export sales up by 14.3% (4 391 units) compared to September 2014.
37 309 passenger car sales down by 13.2% (5 656 units) compared to September 2014.
15 121 light commercial vehicles up by 0.3% (45 units) compared to September 2014.
Top Selling Car Brands in South Africa September 2015
Brand
Total Sales
Market Penetration %
1. Toyota
11 701 (+1 762)
21.2%
3. Volkswagen
9 586 (+1 114)
17.3%
3. Ford Motor Company
6 351 (-271)
11.5%
4. GMSA
5 149 (-6)
9.3%
5. Nissan
3 945 (-93)
7.1%
Top Selling New Cars in South Africa September 2015
NAAMSA predicts that domestic sales would remain under pressure for the remainder of the year. Despite declines in new car sales, exports and local vehicle production remain positive. Vehicle exports are expected to experience further gains for the next two years thanks to the expected improvement in the global economic growth.
BMW Plant Rosslyn Goes Green
BMW South Africa is making significant strides in implementing alternative and sustainable energy at Plant Rosslyn north of Pretoria.
We attended the launch of thefacelifted BMW 3-Seriesthis week and we managed to gain some insight into how BMW is adopting renewable energy at Plant Rosslyn and worldwide. Production of the 3 Series sedan takes place at Plant Rosslyn, which is a key link in BMW’s global supply chain and as many as 350 vehicles roll off the production line on a daily basis for local and export markets.
Like many heavy industries, car production has a massive impact on the environment and the resultant carbon footprint is significant. BMW South Africa is however making an effort to reduce its environmental impact with what is considered to be the first commercially viable biogas-electricity project in South Africa.
Mr Stefan Huelsenberg, Plant Director at Rosslyn addressed the media and had the following to say, “The BMW Group has solidly incorporated the consideration of ecological and social criteria along the entire value chain as well as a clear commitment to the conservation of resources. The BMW Group intends to be not only the leading, but also the most resource efficient premium provider of individual mobility.”
Biogas to Power Production at Plant Rosslyn
Last year, BMW South Africa signed a power purchasing agreement with leading biogas waste-to-energy company, Bio2Watt, to deliver biogas-electricity to plant Rosslyn. To do this, a Biomass Plant was constructed in nearby Bronkhorstspruit on a large feedlot that has a sufficient supply of water, as well as cattle and chicken farm waste, which play an integral role in the production of biogas.
Biogas is produced through the breakdown of organic matter thats mixed with water and microorganisms in large biogas digesters and the resultant by-product of this anaerobic digestion process is methane gas, which is then fed into gas engines to produce electricity.
When in full operation, electricity generated at the Bronkhorstspruit Biomass Plant will account for between 25 and 30% of Plant Rosslyns electricity usage, equating to a total output of 4.4 megawatts.
Huelsenberg said, “We aspire to be the most sustainable company in the automotive industry, therefore sustainability is one of the main drivers of our business. In this way, we not only create added value for the environment and society but also for the company itself, because sustainability management cuts costs and generates revenue and profits.”
By 2020, BMW aims to be a leader in the use of renewable energy by achieving complete carbon neutral energy supply across all its operations. At present, over 50% of BMW’s worldwide electricity requirements are derived from renewable sources.
Examples of how BMW is making use of renewable energy include the BMW Leipzig plant in Germany, which makes use of four wind turbines with 100% of the generated power contributing to the production of the BMW i3 and i8. Similarly, on the other side of the planet, at BMW’s Spartanburg plant in South Carolina, USA, a methane gas system provides about 50% of the required energy at the plant.
Earlier this year, BMW South Africa also became the first automotive company in South Africa to receive a 5-star rating by the Green Building Council of South Africa (GBCSA) for its environmentally friendly head office in Midrand, Gauteng. The GBSA rating considered factors such as indoor environment quality, energy, transport, water, materials, land use, ecology, emissions and innovations.
BMW Plant Rosslyn BioGas Video
Five Questions: Klaus Hartmann (Mercedes-Benz G-Class)
The mighty Mercedes-Benz G-Class is an iconic off-road vehicle steeped in history. We chat to Klaus Hartman, market manager and product management for Mercedes-Benz G-Class about how G-Class can survive in the green 21st century.
Cars.co.za: Given the world-wide trend of downsizing and focusing on eco efficiency, will the Mercedes-Benz G-Class be forced to change its ways? Could there be a plug-in hybrid diesel, better aerodynamics, or will the Gelandewagen carry on proudly as a dedicated vehicle thats designed to work hard and not save the environment?
KH: Our customers see the G-Class as a top of the range product and the majority are requesting V8 or even V12 engines. While we are fulfilling this demand we also work hard on keeping the G-Class young and up to date regarding safety, technology and performance. The newest models are significantly more efficient than previous models and this will continue in the next model years. If you are taking the G350 d for instance, which we are selling in South Africa, we are happy that our newest engines stays below 10 litres of consumption (per 100km). We are constantly evaluating new technologies, but will also ensure that the Geländewagen keeps its dominant performance off-road.
Cars.co.za:The G-Class is a strong and capable vehicle, but it comes at a price. Will there be a cheaper version that opens up a new market? If we look at how the A45 AMG opened a younger market for performance products, is there a possibility of a cheaper G-Class that is more affordable?
KH: G-Class generally targets the top of the SUV segment. Mercedes-Benz has great SUVs in a lower price segment and we are not planning to cannibalise other models. Our customers appreciate a car that is almost entirely hand-crafted and of premium quality.
Cars.co.za: How in-depth is the G-Class customisation programme? If someone wanted to equip their vehicle with extra ground clearance or make it even tougher, can this be done? Or should someone just go straight to the Professional range?
KH: Our factory in Graz is generally very flexible. This is why we are able to offer new models and lines. However, due to the high complexity in our production line where military and luxury vehicles of all types are built on the same line, we currently cannot fulfil every individual customers requirements.
Cars.co.za Your factory in Graz, Austria uses no robots (aside from the mechanised leather cutting machine) and the G-Class is one of the very few vehicles that is hand built. Is there a particular reason for this?
KH: In this regard you can compare us to other luxury goods, e.g. watches. Hand-crafted products represent luxury more than anything else. Our customer knows what to expect and we give it to them. Additionally, the durability of the G-Class in the off-road capability could not be achieved by a higher degree of atomisation.
Cars.co.za: The 6×6 production has come to an end. Would you ever reopen the order books for this outrageous vehicle or do you have something else which is as extreme and capable?
KH: We have no plans to relaunch the 6×6. The successor of the 6×6 is the 4×4² – we expect this car to be at least as emotional and attractive as the 6×6.
BMW has announced a new top model to the X4 range which promises plenty firepower in the performance stakes.
The X4 M40i is the most powerful and rapid model in the range now. It is powered by a straight-six turbocharged engine with plenty power and torque. The exterior has had a minor revamp as has the suspension in order to cope with the extra dollop of power.
For the exterior, the side mirrors finished in metallic grey as well as the 20-inch M light-alloy double-spoke wheels. It has an added sports exhaust system with valve control and Chrome Black tailpipes on both sides to emphasize the uniqueness of the X4 M40i.
Inside theres a leather M steering wheel and M gear shift stick. Theres also sporty seats for support and the door sills light up with model specific etching when opened.
X4 M40i engine
The power unit under the bonnet is a new development and makes its debut inside this X4 M40i. The straight-six punches out 265 kW and 465 Nm of torque. On the combined cycle, BMW claim it will consume just 8.6L/100km. The headline figure seems to be a 0-100kph sprint time of 4.9 seconds combined with an obviously limited top speed of 250kph.
Tuned suspension
To add that extra touch of sportiness, BMW has added stronger springs and stabilizers and increased the camber on the front axle.
It looks very sporty and now has the performance to match. The new BMW X4 M40i should arrive in South Africa in 2016.
Favourite Convertibles for Summer in South Africa
With summer rapidly approaching, we asked you the reader to pick your favourite vehicle for summer. Put the top down and feel the wind in your hair…
It’s summer in South Africa and its time to drop your top and feel the wind in your hair. The feeling of driving to your favorite beach, or shopping mall, with your roof down and the sun kissing your skin is something to behold. It’s wonderful.
Slap some power under the bonnet and the experience quickly becomes more exciting and thrilling. In the spirit of summer and good vibes, we asked you what your favorite summer convertible is. We picked four very attractive options for you to mull over and you responded. Your choice of the best summer convertibles included the Audi S3 Cabriolet, BMW M235i Convertible, Mercedes-Benz SLK200 AMG Sports and the Porsche Boxster.
Let’s take a look at your favorite summer convertibles that will make your heart skip a beat and put a massive smile on your face. Let the good summer times roll…
Favorite Convertibles for Summer
1. Mercedes-Benz SLK200 AMG Sports – 42% of the total vote
Even though the SLK200 AMG Sports convertible is almost three years old, it remains a firm favourite as a summer convertible in South Africa with a whopping 42% of the total vote. With a starting price of R648 778, the SLK200 AMG Sports offers a 2.0-litre turbo engine with 135 kW and 300 Nm of torque. Performance is decent with a 0-100kph sprint time of 7 seconds and a top speed of 240kph. Fuel consumption is decent too with a combined figure of 6.5L/100km. Interested in the SLK200 AMG Sports? No sweat, click here to buy your Mercedes-Benz SLK200 AMG Sports!
2. BMW M235i Convertible – 35% of the total vote
Hot on the heels of the SLK200 AMG Sports is this BMW M235i Convertible with a well deserved 35% of the total vote. The M235i boasts more power with a healthy 240 kW and 450 Nm of torque generated from its 3.0-litre turbo engine. Performance is impressive too with 0-100kph done and dusted in 5.2 seconds with a top speed of 250kph. Fuel consumption sits at 8.5L/100km. in terms of pricing, you are looking at no less than R651 605 for the M235i Convertible which is actually quite competitive when compared to the SLK200 AMG Sports. Buy your BMW M235i Convertible here!
The Porsche Boxster earns third place on this list with 19% of the total vote. The Porsche Boxster has much to offer in terms of style and performance and with its 2.7-litre Boxer engine, the Boxster kicks out 195 kW and 280 Nm of torque. That will see you achieve 5.8 seconds in the 0-100kph sprint before topping out at 264kph. Fuel consumption for the Boxster is rated at 8.4L/100km on the combined cycle and in terms of price you are looking at no less than R780 000 to drive off into the sunset. You can buy your very own Porsche Boxster here!
4. Audi S3 Cabriolet – 4% of the total vote
The Audi S3 Cabriolet, although pretty, didn’t fare too well and only managed to swing 4% of the total vote. Nonetheless, the Audi S3 Cabriolet impresses with its 2.0-litre turbo engine that produces 206 kW and 380 Nm of torque. Perfromance is decent too with 0-100kph completed in 5.4 seconds and a top speed of 250kph. Fuel consumption is managable at 7.1L/100km. The best news however is that this S3 Cabriolet is the cheapest offering on this list at only R641 500. Convinced? Buy your Audi S3 Cabriolet here!
Ford Everest (2016) First Drive
We attended the launch of the all-new Ford Everest in the Western Cape. It’s beaten the new Toyota Fortuner to market, but first impressions count. Has it been worth the wait?
HIGHLIGHTS
One engine and one gearbox with two spec levels to choose from Loads of technology, both for on- and off-road applications 7-seat practicality
The Ford Everest first made landfall back around the 2009/2010 mark and while the aged underpinnings were called into question, there was no denying its offroad and practical abilities. Even today, the old Everest is quite in demand in the pre-owned market. This week sees the all-new Ford Everest charge into South Africa.
Engine and Line Up
Right now there’s one engine and one gearbox which is shared across two spec levels. This engine is well known and has a generally good track record. The 3.2-litre five-cylinder turbodiesel from the Ranger is here, but it has received some efficiency upgrades. Power is rated at 147kW and torque at 470Nm, and that grunt reaches all four wheels through a six-speed automatic gearbox.
Can It Go Offroad?
Offroad credentials come in the form of low range, electronically locking rear differential and some offroad driving modes. It’s the vehicle’s dimensions which allow it to cross the toughest terrain. A ground clearance of 225mm, wading depth of 800mm and generous approach and departure angles give it some decent on-paper appeal. We say on-paper, because we nearly missed out on testing the vehicle offroad as our 4×4 trail was flooded in the Franschhoek area. Some might suggest this would have been the perfect opportunity to put the new Ford Everest through its paces, but the Ford marketing team were having none of it and didn’t want to risk it… The next morning, we did some unofficial offroading and the car breezed through the river bed and undulations. We look forward to really pushing it to its limits soon.
The rest of the package is very good indeed. The driving position is commanding, and the driver plus front passenger are greeted with a modern-looking infotainment system with SYNC2 which does duty in products such the new Ford Focus ST and Ford Fusion sedan. The instrument cluster makes do with a centrally-mounted speedometer, with two screens either side. These are particularly detailed and relay info such as entertainment, trip computer data as well as offroad data. Interestingly, there’s no rev counter and you have to look through the various menus to find it.
Tech and Features
Speaking of tech, the Ford Everest comes fitted with a whole host of smart features. The top-of-the-range Limited version comes with heated front seats, HID headlamps, LED daytime running lights, power-folding third row seats, powered tailgate, Active Park Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Auto High Beam Control, Blind Spot Monitoring with Cross Traffic Alert, Tyre Pressure Monitoring, Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keep Assist.
Also fitted are two USB ports, an SD card slot and Aux input plus a total of four 12V sockets. All seats can be folded flat and you get up to 2 010 litres of space. It rides on gorgeous 20-inch alloys which are wrapped in high-profile rubber – handy for when traversing harsh terrain.
On The Road
On the road, the Ford Everest’s best feature is its refinement. Despite being based on the Ranger bakkie, the ride quality and refinement is rather good. Road noise is minimal thanks to decent insulation and Ford’s cleverly installed its Active Noise Cancellation Tech into the vehicle.
The result is a vehicle that can cruise at the national speed limit with a whisper quiet cabin. The engine takes some getting used to as the combination of motor and gearbox doesn’t make for hasty getaways. Once you’re on the move, all the torque can be put to good use. Towing should be a breeze – up to 3 000kg can be towed, according to Ford South Africa.
Ford Everest Price in South Africa
With pricing and spec levels set this high, were looking at a premium competitor thats aimed right at the likes of the Toyota Prado, but dont discount the Toyota Fortuner just yet as that model is due to replaced in 2016. The Ford Everest range will be expanded, but that will only happen in the second quarter of 2016.
Whilst trawling the internet, we came across this episode released by Ford Performance. Its a short film about the rebirth and development of the new Ford Focus RS. Theres a bit of background on the cars from the past and a little bit of engineering talk too.
The Ford Focus RS is seen as an icon within the Ford stable. The first official Focus RS being built back in 2002, since then it has become a halo vehicle for the Ford brand across the globe. For this latest version, the Ford team drafted in Ken Block to help with the development and feel of the Focus RS. The team also chats as to why they decided that all-wheel drive had to be implemented and how the car has to appeal to both the advanced driver and the novice.
The video is the first instalment of a series that will take us through a journey of development of the new Focus RS. It may be a bit techy for some but its still worth a watch if youre a petrol head.
Ford Focus RS: Rebirth of an Icon
Best Leisure Cars in South Africa 2015
South Africans like to travel. We migrate during holiday season to the coasts, mountains or deserts depending on our fancy. The leisure car serves as the tool that often transports us to these destinations. Were talking about the go just about anywhere vehicle for the family. Big on space, practicality and a bit of talent when the road turns to dirt.
For our Leisure Car category we placed a higher emphasis on the following traits. Performance in terms of overtaking when fully loaded or when towing a hefty weight. Space and practicality is another factor, especially when it comes to cabin space, rear occupant room and loading ability. An up to date infotainment system is a necessity nowadays, helping to ease the pain on those long Karoo roads with no radio signal. Ride comfort is a major bonus as is a solid air-con unit that can cool rear passengers too. Then finally we rank the cars all-surface ability. It doesnt have to be able to traverse the Fish River Canyon but some form of all-wheel drive is required.
In order to cut the grade the leisure vehicle needs to hit the following marks: price under R700k, electronic stability control, minimum of six airbags, split/folding rear seats, a minimum ground clearance of 180mm and all-wheel drive needs to be part of the package.
Best Leisure Cars in SA
Chevrolet Trailblazer 2.8 TD LTZ 4×4 Auto from R569 800
Bakkie-based SUVs are a big hit on the South African market. They offer decent value and have proven to be rugged and reliable. The Trailblazer is currently the best of the bunch as it has been slowly updated with better engines, more modern interior and a very good infotainment system. The 2.8 TD has more than enough grunt with 140 kW and 500 Nm of torque. Thats enough to take the boat and caravan on holiday with seven people in the car. Read More
Land Rover Discovery Sport SD4 SE from R640 320
A brand new entrant from Land Rover although it is basically a replacement for the Freelander. Complete with seven seats and a powerful 2.2-Litre turbodiesel engine, the Discovery Sport adds premium touches with ruggedness and plenty of off-road talents. Its reasonably spacious inside and has all the latest gadgets thanks to a brand new infotainment system. Its quite pricey but exudes an aura of desirability. Read More
Mitsubishi Outlander 2.4 GLS Exceed from R439 900
If its pure value for money youre after in a family car then the Outlander is the way to go. The engine is a naturally aspirated petrol unit with 2.4-litres of capacity. Its a bit old-school and suffers a bit on fuel economy and a lack of torque but its still capable. The Outlander is heaped with loads of standard equipment and seven seats. Its relatively roomy inside and rides exceptionally well on all surfaces. Read More
Nissan X-Trail 2.5 SE CVT AWD from R364 200
The return of Nissans X-Trail seems to be a success, the platform is all-new but the older naturally aspirated engines have been transferred. This seemingly keeps the price down as the X-Trail offers a lot for a vehicle under R400k. The 2.5-Litre petrol engine is trustworthy if a little thirsty but the ride remains comfortable and soft for those long journeys. With seven seats its a little cramped but in five-seater mode it offers a good-sized boot and rear roominess. Read More
Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 3.0 TD TX from R684 700
The Land Cruiser Prado is the big daddy in the lineup. Its built to withstand the toughest conditions and has stood the test in Africas harshest conditions. If you want to go really far off-road then the Prado is for you. A 150-Litre fuel tank should send the durable 3-Litre turbodiesel over 1 500km on a tank. The Prado is spacious inside and offers a decent entertainment system. It possibly lacks pure road manners but youll be thankful for its cushy ride and light steering when youre bouncing through the Baviaans. Read More
BMW 3 Series Facelift (2015) First Drive
BMW has given its popular 3 Series sedan a facelift and we attended the launch at Rosslyn north of Pretoria to see whats changed and to give the fresh 3 a drive.
This year marks 40 years of the BMW 3 Series sedan, a model range which has proven to be hugely popular around the world. The 3 Series accounts for about 25% of BMWs sales and since its introduction to market way back in 1974, more than 14 million of them have been delivered to customers worldwide, making it the most successful model range in the BMW stable.
Currently in its sixth generation, the 3 Series sedan has a rich history and BMW is building on its past success with the newly facelifted 3 Series which was launched in South Africa this week. The launch took place at BMWs Plant Rosslyn near Pretoria, home of the 3 Series, and we were there to see whats changed and to experience the new 3-Series where it matters most – on the road.
Whats New?
On the styling front, the 3 Series now features a sharper design. New front aprons and larger revised air intakes emphasize a wider stance while the newly designed headlights and LED daytime running lights give the 3 Series a modernised look. Customers can now opt for full LED headlights which is offered as an option. At the rear, new L-shaped LED taillights are fitted as standard across the range and twin tail pipes hint at the sporty nature of the 3 Series.
The theme of sportiness and elegance is carried through into the interior and BMW has incorporated new materials including the combination of leather, chrome highlights and high-gloss surfaces. The centre console now features a sliding cover for the cupholders and the BMW Connected Drive infotainment system also features an integrated SIM card and customers can initiate map updating at any BMW dealership free-of-charge for a period of three years.
New engine range
The biggest changes however can be found under the bonnet. From launch, BMW will offer four petrol engines and two diesel engines sourced from the modular BMW EfficientDynamics engine family, all featuring TwinPower Turbo technology. With improvements in both power and economy, the power spread for the petrol engines range from 100 kW all the way up to 240 kW while the two diesel engines offer 140kW and 190 kW respectively.
For starters, theres now a 3-cylinder 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine on offer in the 318i with 100 kW and 220 Nm of torque. The 320i features a new 4-cylinder 2.0-litre engine offering 135 kW and 290 Nm of torque while the new 2.0-litre unit in the 330i generates 185 kW and 350 Nm of torque. Replacing the previous 335i, is the new range-topping 340i, fitted with an all-new 6-cylinder 3.0-litre engine developing 240 kW and 450 Nm of torque.
On the diesel front, the 320d is fitted with a new 4-cylinder 2.0-litre engine which offers 140 kW and 400 Nm of torque while the 330d with its 6-cylinder 3.0-litre engine offers 190 kW and 560 Nm of torque. The 3-Series can be had with either a 6-speed manual transmission, 8-speed Steptronic transmission or the sportier 8-speed Steptronic Sport transmission. The automatic Steptronic transmission is fitted as standard on the 330d while the Sport Steptronic is standard on the 340i.
BMW is also offering a bespoke 40 Year Limited Edition 3 Series which features a special paint finish and a host of exclusive features. Only 400 units will be made available in South Africa.
Lastly, the team at BMW has further improved damper technology, stiffened the suspension and tinkered with the steering to deliver more precise and dynamic handling. And in case you were wondering, all changes apply to the BMW M3 too.
Hybrid coming soon
In March 2016, BMW will also be launching thde new 330e Plug-in Hybrid in South Africa which will offer fuel efficiency of 2.1L/100km with an electric range of 35km. In terms of performance, the 330e will sprint to 0-100kph in 6.3 seconds and is capable of reaching a top speed of 225kph or 120kph on electric power alone.
How Does The BMW 3 Series Drive?
The launch route covered almost 400km which gave us ample time to put the BMW 3 Series through its paces. Our first test was in the range-topping 340i in M Sport trim and from the outset, it was eager to push on and once the road opened up, there was no holding back. Performance in the 340i was quite impressive and with a claimed 0-100kph sprint time of 5.1 seconds, it had no problem leaving other traffic in its dust.
The 8-speed Sport Steptronic worked seamlessly to get the most out of the 3.0-litre engine and the shift paddles behind the steering wheel increase driver engagement substantially. The steering felt well-weighted and the throttle is super responsive. With your foot planted flat, power is delivered quickly and the 340i leaps forward with great intention and pace. It’s a thrilling drive. Four driving modes including EcoPro, Comfort, Sport and Sport+ can be selected. In Comfort mode, the 340i sounds quite sedate, but Sport mode creates a deeper, sportier thrum from the engine.
However, what impressed me most about the 340i was its ride quality and handling. Road quality on the launch route was poor, yet the 340i did an excellent job of delivering a solid and composed ride, even with Sport mode engaged. The 340i with 240 kW and 450 Nm of torque is certainly not short of grunt and customers can look forward to an engaging yet refined drive from this new 340i.
Our second stint was in the 318i in Sport Line trim with its 3-cylinder 1.5-litre turbo engine, the same engine that powers the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer. With 100 kW and 220 Nm, I was pleasantly surprised by the performance of the 318i. It was comfortable to drive and like the 340i, it was well composed on poor road surfaces. Yes, its a bit slower with a claimed 0-100kph sprint time of 8.9 seconds, but once the 318i gets up to speed it copes well in traffic and has sufficient power to overtake and push on if need be. This unit was also fitted with the 8-speed Steptronic transmission which performed admirably.
Overall, the new BMW 3 Series impressed us in terms of handling and performance and the interior is a comfortable place to be. We will hopefully have the facelifted BMW 3 Series on test soon to give it a thorough evaluation. For now though, take a look at the pricing structure for the facelifted BMW 3 Series below.
