Porsche went all out as far as concept machinery goes at the Frankfurt motor show this year. The Porsche Mission E Concept was revealed showing Porsche heading into a totally electric future. The Mission E is a move into the electric sportscar world currently owned by Tesla and its Model S.
Porsche Mission E has range
With a claimed range of 500km the Mission E Concept previews a future where electric cars dont have extremely limited range. It’s equipped with all-wheel drive as well as all-wheel steering. Power is delivered by two electric motors that are able to blurt out 440 kW in total. Amongst other fictional numbers Porsche has specced the Mission E with is a 0-100kph time of 3.5 seconds and a Nurburgring lap time of less than eight minutes.
Porsche claims that it has a fast charge system that will recharge the batteries to 80% within 15-minutes. This gives it a range of 400km for every 15 minutes you spend charging it. Thanks to inductive charging no cables are needed. All you do is park over a coil embedded in the floor of the garage from which the energy is transferred without cables to a coil in the car’s underbody.
Low slung sportscar
The Mission E Concept is a particularly low vehicle, measuring just 1.3m tall. The entire car is designed to be sporty, aggressive and emotional. Integrated aerodynamics increase performance and improve efficiency by reducing lift and unnecessary drag.
The interior of the Mission E is an all-new take on things for Porsche. The lack of a transmission tunnel, for instance, opens up space and gives a lighter and more airy atmosphere to the entire interior. Race bucket seats served as inspiration for the four single seats. Their lightweight design is weight-saving, and it gives occupants secure lateral support during dynamic driving.
Porsche is tight-lipped as to whether the Mission E Concept will become a production model. We are likely to see some of this electric technology filter into products like the new Panamera, which could debut next year.
Mission E Tribute to tomorrow Video
Mercedes-Benz IAA Concept Wows Frankfurt
Mercedes-Benz took the covers off its IAA Concept at the media night on the eve of the Frankfurt Motor Show.
Showcasing new aerodynamic tech and a strong emphasis on digital design, the IAA (Intelligent Aerodynamic Automobile) Concept is claimed to be two cars in one. The first is an aerodynamics warrior, with a drag coefficient of just 0.19 and the second is a four-door coupe showcasing futuristic design.
Mercedes-Benz IAA Concept Details
The car has two modes: design mode and aerodynamic mode. The switch happens at 80kph when numerous bits of aero move around to alter the shape of the Mercedes-Benz IAA Concept. The rear extends, increasing its length by up to 390mm; flaps in the front bumper extend by 25mm to the front and 20 mm to the rear, improving the air flow around the front end and the front wheel arches, and finally the Active Rims alter their cupping from 55mm to zero; and the louvre in the front bumper moves 60mm to the rear which improves air flow underneath the car.
The interior is extraordinarily futuristic and carries on the design style of the S-Class and S-Class coupe. The Mercedes-Benz IAA Concept interior gives us some idea of what a future business saloon such as an S-Class or even an E-Class might look like in the coming years. The tech is next level, featuring items like gesture control and two touchscreens.
Other features of the Mercedes-Benz IAA Concept include a sneak peek into Car-to-X technology, which enables communication with other vehicles or other sources of information.
“The ‘Concept IAA’ continues our series of visionary concept cars,” explains Gorden Wagener, Head of Design at Daimler AG. “The symbiosis of alluring forms showcasing intelligent aerodynamics is an expression of our unique Mercedes-Benz design philosophy.”
The concept car is powered by a petrol/electric plug-in hybrid drive combination with a total output of 205 kW. It has an electronically limited top speed of 250 kph. In aerodynamic mode the Mercedes-Benz Concept IAA can do an all-electric range of 66 km. In design mode the range is slightly less at 62 km When driving in hybrid model the CO2 emissions are 28g and 31g per km, respectively.
Mercedes-Benz A-Class (2016) First Drive
We attended the launch of the facelifted Mercedes-Benz A-Class in Dresden, Germany. Have the creases in the previous model been ironed out?
HIGHLIGHTS
– Improved ride thanks to Drive Select – Connectivity to Apple CarPlay and MirrorLink – A45 AMG even faster and has more power – Mainstream models and A45 AMG coming to SA in Jan 2016
When Mercedes-Benz unveiled the first generation of A-Class back in 1997, there were mixed reactions. How could a luxury sedan manufacturer make a family hatchback/MPV? Some even suggested that this was the beginning of the end for the brand.
While sales of the first-generation Mercedes-Benz A-Class were commendable, the model was never taken seriously by those who would otherwise consider an Audi A3 or BMW 1 Series – in other words, younger buyers. The new model, launched in 2012, changed the formula. Here was a fashionable premium rival to the BMW 1-Series and Audi A3. The market response was terrific, with 463 000 units sold globally in 2014 alone. There was a hardcore AMG model too, featuring the world’s most powerful 2-litre four-cylinder petrol engine. This car became a great success and image builder for Mercedes-Benz as it opened up new markets and lured a younger generation of buyer. And unlike its predecessors, this A-Class was purchased purely for its design too. Interestingly, South Africa was the 10th biggest market for this car.
Not that the current A-Class has been without its faults… The ride was firm and on uneven roads such as ours, it could be unpleasant especially with the sportier models like the A250 and A45 with their bigger wheels. The gearbox could also be a little hesitant at low speeds, resulting in a frustrating drive around town.
What’s New?
Now Mercedes-Benz has given the A-Class a significant upgrade, and it will reach us very soon. First up, there’s the looks. A slight change in the front and rear bumpers, and some tweaked rear tail lamps result in a mildly upgraded exterior. The real changes have occurred underneath and inside. Sift your way through the marketing spin and there’s plenty to think about, but the best way to get an understanding of how much has changed is by driving the car.
The ride has improved considerably with the addition of Dynamic Select with adaptive damping. The default mode is Comfort, but you can select Sport and Eco which respectively either sharpen up responses or optimise the vehicle for efficiency. Finally there’s an Individual mode which allows you to set up the car to suit you best. The 7G-Tronic transmission has also been reworked to offer better gearshifts. For those wanting some (competitive) fun, the car can now do launch starts.
The interior gets better trim, new instrument clusters and the infotainment system receives the ability of Apple CarPlay and MirrowLink – bringing smartphone integration to the car.
How Does It Drive?
We had the A220d with 7G-Tronic transmission for the first drive and the refinement of this diesel engine was notable. It’s only when you accelerate harshly that you hear the typical diesel clatter, but then this particular model is not really aimed at hot hatch enthusiasts. Still, with 130 kW and 350 Nm, the A220d has more than adequate performance. Fuel economy is this car’s forte and it is said to consume just 4.2L/100km.
There are two types of European roads. You have the finest quality of tarmac on the autobahn and B-roads, and then you get the typical cobblestone streets. Both are a good test and the Mercedes-Benz A 220d did well on both surfaces.
A45 AMG – The Ultimate Hot Hatchback
We drove the A 220d to the German Touring Car (DTM) circuit of Lausitzring – a tight and twisty circuit with many tight corners and it was here where we would be putting the new Mercedes-AMG A45 through its paces.
It too has received some upgrades. Let’s start with the headline – more power! The 2-litre turbocharged four-cylinder motor now offers 280 kW and 475 Nm (up 15kW and 25Nm) and despite Audi’s best efforts with the 2.5-litre RS3, the A45 AMG offers the most power in this segment. Other mechanical changes include shorter gear ratios with better transmission mapping, front axle differential (if you spec Dynamic Plus) as well as tweaks to the driving modes. Much like the AMG GT S, this model features modes like Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Individual and Race which make the A45 a lot more driveable. Best part is you can select a Comfort suspension setting, while the engine stays in Sport+ meaning you won’t suffer on bumpy roads.
The result of this is one very quick car, both in a straight line and cornering. 0-100kph is smashed in 4.2 seconds and the A45 charges to a limited top speed of 250kph. Mercedes-AMG had brought along German touring car legend Bernd Schneider who piloted a Mercedes-AMG GT S supercar and guided us around the tricky corners. With two sighting laps to get used to the car and the track, it was time to unleash all 280 kW.
In manual mode, the acceleration and gearshifts (both up and down) are very quick. The car’s brakes are very good too and when you’re doing well over 200kph, it’s reassuring to feel confident in the braking force. Through the corners, the A45 is agile, especially if you spec that front differential, but if you get too aggressive you inevitably run in to understeer. It’s not all about front end ploughing however, with its all-wheel drive you can actually get the back end to come around and play. The summary – the latest generation of A45 is one very quick car and moves the game on considerably.
It wasn’t all about track driving though. We also had the opportunity to drive the A45 on the winding roads down to the Czech border. These B-roads are in excellent condition and the combination of tight off-camber corners and short straights make for a happy playground for the A45. With 475 Nm and a responsive gearbox, overtaking any slower vehicles is effortless. Given the amount of grip from all four wheels, it’s going to take a special vehicle to keep pace with the A45 AMG.
We also had a short stint on sections of derestricted Autobahn where we could push the A45’s top speed. At one stage we saw 230kph on the clock, before having to make way for faster traffic. To summarise: Mercedes-AMG has improved the ride considerably and the fact that you’re able to switch between modes has made the car that much better to live with. That engine offers even more power, but officially Mercedes-AMG says it’s at the limit of performance and reliability. Read the interview with Mercedes-AMG’s Steffen Jastrow here.
The new Mercedes-Benz A-Class and A45 AMG arrive in January 2016. Prices include VAT, but exclude CO2 tax.
A200 R389 200
A200 d R419 200
A220 d R460 100
A250 Sport R491 500
A45 AMG 4MATIC R683 600
Five Questions: Steffen Jastrow (Mercedes-AMG)
What is Mercedes-AMG capable of in the compact car segment? We chat exclusively to Steffen Jastrow, Head of Development Mercedes-AMG Compact Cars, at the international launch of the facelifted A-Class in Dresden, Germany.
Q:When will Mercedes-AMG start using hybrid tech such as that seen in products from Porsche and Ferrari?
SJ: No comment! (laughs)
Q:Has Mercedes’s participation in Formula One seen technology trickle down into road-going cars? Something for the future perhaps?
SJ: We’re talking to them for technology and we’re swapping information with them. Hopefully we will get nicer technology and features from the F1 guys for the next generation of cars. Right now, it’s too early to say that there’s something already in effect.
Q:How did you get so much power from the 2.0-litre engine while keeping reliability?
SJ: The first point (is that) we need to fulfill Mercedes-Benz reliability and quality standards. There’s no exception to this even though we’re AMG. This A45 AMG still has the same boost pressure of 1.8 bar and temperatures are still the same. We worked on the loss side such as changes on the exhaust camshaft and outlet valves, which reduces the workload. 191hp (142 kW)/Litre is an amazing figure, usually reserved for bikes and super sports cars.
Q:How do you feel about aftermarket tuners getting their hands on the A45? Is it a threat, or an opportunity to learn, or do you just let them be?
SJ: The point is reliability. Of course it’s possible to make more power in a technical way, but we have maximum quality standards and our customers don’t want a car that’s done in half a year. It’s still a Mercedes-AMG, and the tuners take the cars and don’t fulfill any quality standards that we have.
Q:Finally, can we expect a Mercedes-AMG A45 Black Series? Something stripped-out perhaps? More power?
SJ: This engine? This engine is at it’s limit. With the technology we have, we made this engine to the limit from the start, but we don’t plan a Black Series yet. Maybe it will be an issue in the future, but right now we don’t have plans.
Volvo’s strong safety reputation is reinforced once again by the latest EuroNCAP safety results.
Safety remains a top consideration in the minds of car buyers around the world and advancements in safety technology have resulted in massive improvements in the car industry. Just about every modern car on the market is fitted with basic active and passive safety technologies that are designed to prevent accidents. They are also designed to keep you as safe as possible in the event of an accident. It’s important to bear in mind that some cars are safer than others and real world accidents can be so severe that no amount of safety technology can guarantee your survival. Best you drive safely, no matter what car you drive!
Just over a year ago we covered the Five Safest Cars in South Africa for 2014. That list is due for an update and there are some new vehicles to consider if you are looking for the safest cars available on the market today. What’s interesting about this year’s results is the inclusion of larger vehicles, which due to their height and size can be more susceptible to incidents. Last year, the top five safest vehicles were all hatchbacks and this year we welcome a large SUV and a premium MPV to the list. This alone is testament to the fact that even larger vehicles are now becoming safer than ever before, thanks to technology.
To generate this list, we examined Euro NCAP test results for vehicles currently available in South Africa over the period 2012 to 2015. We then worked out the highest average percentage score across adult occupant safety, child occupant safety, pedestrian safety and safety assist tests. All vehicles on this list have a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating. Take a look at the safest cars in South Africa for 2015…
* Note that vehicles tested by EuroNCAP are not necessarily identical in safety specification to products sold in South Africa.
Safest Cars in SA for 2015
Volvo V40 – 90%
Test Results
Adult Occupant Safety – 98%
Child Occupant Safety – 75%
Pedestrian Safety – 88%
Safety Assist – 100%
The Volvo V40 retains its exemplary safety status as South Africa’s safest car for 2015. Not only does it have a strong main structure to protect occupants, but the V40 is also fitted with a total of eight airbags, including a pedestrian airbag. Features such as an automatic braking system, blind spot monitor, lane-keeping assist and park distance control makes the V40 safer to drive on a daily basis too. Other safety features include ABS with EBD, traction control and stability control. If safety is important to you, then the V40 is a safe bet. Pricing for the Volvo V40 starts at R322 900. Buy a Volvo V40 here!
Volvo XC90 – 89%
Test Results
Adult Occupant Safety – 97%
Child Occupant Safety – 87%
Pedestrian Safety – 72%
Safety Assist – 100%
The Volvo XC90 SUV was recently introduced in South Africa and is the second safest car money can buy. The XC90, like the V40, is packed to the hilt with safety technology and comes fitted with a total of six airbags as well as features such as lane-keeping assist, blind spot monitor and front and rear park distance control. Other standard safety features include ABS with EBD, electronic brake assist, traction control, stability control and hill descent control. Pricing for the Volvo XC90 starts at R804 000. Buy a Volvo XC90 here!
Also watch our video review of the Volvo XC90 below!
Renault Clio / Audi A3 – 86%
Test Results
Adult Occupant Safety – 88%
Child Occupant Safety – 89%
Pedestrian Safety – 66%
Safety Assist – 99%
The Renault Clio and Audi A3 share third place on this list. The Renault Clio comes well-specced in the safety department with a total of four airbags and the base Authentique model is equipped with ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, traction control and stability control while the high-spec RS 200 Cup model adds park distance control to the mix. Pricing for the Renault Clio starts at R172 900. Buy a Renault Clio here!
Test Results
Adult Occupant Safety – 95%
Child Occupant Safety – 87%
Pedestrian Safety – 74%
Safety Assist – 86%
The Audi A3 on the other hand offers a total of seven airbags and comes fitted with ABS with EBD, electronic brake assist, traction control and stability control while park distance control is offered as an optional extra. Pricing for the Audi A3 starts at R326 000. Buy a Audi A3 here!
The Hyundai i30 is a popular hatchback in South Africa and is fitted with a total of six airbags as well as ABS with EBD, stability control and rear park distance control. Pricing for the Hyundai i30 starts at R290 900. Buy a Hyundai i30 here!
Test Results
Adult Occupant Safety – 94%
Child Occupant Safety – 83%
Pedestrian Safety – 69%
Safety Assist – 86%
The Honda Civiccomes well equipped with a total of six airbags and ABS with EBD, electronic brake assist, traction control and stability control. The 1.8 Executive derivative adds rear park distance control as standard. Pricing for the Honda Civic starts at R297 000. Buy a Honda Civic here!
Test Results
Adult Occupant Safety – 93%
Child Occupant Safety – 87%
Pedestrian Safety – 67%
Safety Assist – 85%
The Mercedes-Benz V-Class MPV was recently launched in South Africaand despite its size, it cuts the grade in terms of safety. The entry level V200 CDI is equipped with six airbags as standard but can be fitted with eight as an option. This model is also equipped with ABS and EBD, electronic brake assist, traction control and stability control. Front and rear park distance control is standard too. Additional safety systems such as lane departure warning and blind spot warning are available as an option but is fitted as standard on the high-spec V250 BlueTec Avantgarde derivative. Additional features such as Crosswind Assist, Attention Assist and Active Parking Assist further add to its safety credentials. Pricing for the Mercedes-Benz V-Class starts at R695 981. Buy a Mercedes-Benz V-Class here!
Audi RS6 Avant Unleashed in SA
Audi has quietly let loose its big gun on the South African market. Introducing the mighty RS6 Avant.
The RS6 Avant is an absolute brute of a family wagon, capable of matching sports cars for pace, all whilst terrifying your dog and kids in the back.
This latest variant actually has a little less power than its predecessor but has more torque. The previous 5-Litre V10 Biturbo has been scrapped along with its 426 kW. Under the bonnet is a 4-Litre V8 turbo that still manages a lofty 412 kW combined with 700 Nm of torque. 100kph is dispatched in 3.9 seconds and the eight-speed tiptronic gearbox will send it to a top speed of 305kph. Thats if you opt for the dynamic plus package that disregards the standard 250kph limiter.
In order to make the RS6 go around corners in an exciting manner, Audi has fitted the RS6 Avant with self-locking differential. This allows torque to be sent to whichever axle best promotes dynamic handling. This works in tandem with the Drive Select button that adapts the air suspension depending on the drivers desires.
The RS6 Avant is distinctive from the outside, especially with its wider front track and 21-inch rims. The wheel arches are flared for presence, the front and rear bumpers are RS model specific and the exhaust tips are brushed in aluminium.
The RS6 Avant still has to work as a station wagon so in standard form it has a boot space of 565-Litres. Fold the back seats down and that space expands to 1 680 litres. The optional dynamic package plus includes ceramic brakes, top speed of 305kph, dynamic steering, matrix beam headlights and sports suspension plus with DRC. There are also a wide range of driver assistance systems available, including adaptive cruise control with stop & go function. Blind spot monitoring and active lane assist, which prevents unintended lane changes.
RS6 Avant Price in South Africa
Seeing as this is a full blown RS model, its likely to break the bank. In standard form it costs R1 465 000 and comes with a 5 year/100 000km Freeway Plan.
Volkswagen Polo GTI Manual (2015) Review
Like the maturity of the VW Polo GTI, but desire a bit more engagement? The new six-speed manual version could be just the ticket.
HIGHLIGHTS
– Return of a six-speed manual gearbox
– 70 Nm more torque than the DSG
– Great combo of zest, practicality and quality
No your eyes are not misleading you. Weve already had a go in the revised Polo GTI earlier this year, and it was painted in exactly the same (and rather attractive) Blue Silk colour. So why another, then? Well, the car tested here is equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, as opposed to the DSG (dual-clutch) version that debuted first. We lamented the fact that the first (DSG) model lacked in the driver engagement stakes, so the opportunity to be more hands-on as a result of the fitment of the manual transmission should make this Polo GTI a better drivers car right?
Honey I Shrunk The Golf GTI looks
The current-generation Polo is ageing remarkably well, and following its recent facelift looks especially sharp in GTI form. Its very conservative at its core, and quite chunky compared with the more flowing lines of later arrivals, but with all its GTI bits and pieces, it looks handsome and every bit the junior Golf GTi that Volkswagen wants it to be mature, yet sporty. Of course, the five-door body has considerable practicality benefits the Polos two main manual-gearbox rivals, the Ford Fiesta ST and Peugeot 208 GTi, are only offered in the three-door shape.
You have to keep in mind, however, that the Polo GTIs good looks do come at somewhat of a cost. The lovely paint colour of this test car adds R900, the Light & Vision package a further R3 700, the Panoramic sunroof costs R9 200 and the LED headlamps a whopping R11 750. All-in-all, the Polo GTI as tested costs over R350 000, and thats plenty of money for a Polo.
Inside, its a similar story, with finishes that put all other cars competing in this segment to shame. To make the GTI feel special, there are figure-hugging seats, a different steering wheel and of course, that manual gearlever. Our test cars standard features package was further bolstered by the addition of Park Distance Control (R3 050), Rear Assist/Camera (R3 050), Climatronic air-conditioning (R3 550) and the Sport Select function (R4 200).
In fact, given the price, colleague Ciro de Sienas latest video suggests you may also want to look at buying a used Golf 6 GTI for the same amount of money. View that video here
But lets compare apple with apples the Polo GTI is more practical and of a higher perceived quality than its main rivals, yet looks suitably upmarket and sporty, too.
Strong mid-range thrust
Like the DSG model, the manual-gearbox Polo GTI is powered by Volkswagens 1.8-litre turbopetrol four-cylinder engine. It delivers 141 kW from 4 200 to 6 200 rpm and 320 Nm of torque from a low 1 450 to 4 200 rpm. The torque figure represents a 70 Nm improvement over what is offered in the DSG-equipped car, and that torque curve stretches very wide, promising great flexibility.
Interestingly, Volkswagen claims exactly the same headline performance figures for the two models a top speed of 236kph and a 0-100kph time of 6.7 seconds. Of course, the DSG-equipped model is easier to launch and achieve that claimed time, but it has to be said that once it gets going, the manual version feels notably brawnier. And compared with its predecessor (the 1.4-litre turbocharged model) it feels far more responsive and also sounds more entertaining quite a deep growl.
The gearbox itself is a typical Volkswagen unit in other words it doesnt like to be rushed and feels quite un-sporty when stepping out of something like a Ford Fiesta ST. Some of our testers also felt that the gearlever was placed too low. Still, the mere fact that it is there, combined with the impressive power from the engine, means that the Polo GTI is indeed a far more engaging junior hot hatch to drive than any Polo of recent memory.
Surprisingly stiff ride
Compared with a standard Polo the GTI is 10 and 15mm lower in the front and the rear respectively, and the anti-roll bars are significantly stiffer too. Our test unit, however, also came with the optional Sport Select suspension system, which further firms up the dampers when the Sport button on the facia is pressed. Youll also notice that steering then becomes a bit meatier, and the engine sound more pronounced.
Drive around without the Sport Select mode being activated, and the ride is already surprisingly firm for a Polo, a clear indication that Volkswagen wanted this model to be a bit edgier than its woolly predecessors. In truth, even with the Sport button pressed, the Polo GTI never feels quite as light on its tyres as a Ford Fiesta ST, for example, but theres definitely fun to be had. The grip levels are very high, and because the drivetrain is so responsive and, yes, because theres a manual transmission, its a pleasant car to grab by the scruff of the neck and drive hard over a challenging piece of tarmac.
Conclusion and Summary
The Polo GTI appears pricey on the face of it, but it is quite easily the most complete car of its type. Practical, well-built, fast and now quite entertaining to drive, it covers all the bases exceptionally well. Ultimately a Fiesta ST is more fun, but if youre looking for a more mature offering, you cant beat this Polo GTI.
Volkswagen Polo GTI Price in South Africa
The Volkswagen Polo GTI costs R313 300 and comes with a three-year/120 000 km warranty and three-year/45 000 km service plan.
Second Opinion
Sticking a manual lever in the Polo and adding a noticeable amount of torque has given this Polo GTI more character. It keeps you on your toes as it breaks traction under power easier and is more engaging than the DSG. – Ashley Oldfield
We like the Polo GTI and what it offers, and the addition of the manual transmission has given it an added appeal. It’s great fun to drive and brimming with enthusiasm and personality. Most entertaining, but the price will raise some eyebrows. -David Taylor
We Like: Performance, Quality, Ride/handling balance
We dont Like: Pricey, gearlever placement
Also consider: Ford Fiesta ST, Renault Clio RS200 Lux (dual-clutch), Peugeot 208 GTi
Concept cars preview forthcoming vehicles and show design direction, but which ones are your favourite? We look at four concepts which will be shown at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show.
With the Frankfurt Motor Show due to kick off next week, as expected, a number of concept cars will be making an appearance. Concept cars not only offer the opportunity to free the mind to imagine what could be, but they also point to alternative designs, giving us a glimpse of what cars could possibly look like in the not-too-distant future.
We like concept cars and we like dreaming too and this week’s #ChooseDay focussed in on some recently revealed concept cars. We wanted to find out which concept cars resonated most with you and the options included the Citroen Cactus M Concept, Renault ALASKAN Concept, Peugeot Fractal Concept and the Bugatti Vision Gran Turismo Concept.
Let’s take a look at what concept cars you liked the most….
Renault is looking at introducing a global bakkie in 2016 and this new model will be based on this ALASKAN concept. Now, we weren’t surprised that 58% of you thought that the ALASKAN concept is awesome. Here in South Africa, we love our bakkies and a concept bakkie that looks as good as this ALASKAN concept is bound to attract attention. The ALASKAN concept showcases progressive and attractive styling and is fitted with all kinds of comfort features to make the daily commute that much better. Renault says the production version will have the same dimensions as this concept and will be offered with various body styles and powertrains.
With the Veyron done and dusted, Bugatti is looking to the future with the development of its next super sports car. This vision comes to life in virtual form in the Bugatti Vision Gran Turismo Concept which will be shown at the Frankfurt Motor Show as a virtual project. Although this is an exaggerated virtual concept with heavy emphasis on high-performance , Bugatti has said that the “progressive design language will give an impressive demonstration of the path to be taken by Bugatti design over the next few years.
The Peugeot Fractal Concept is an urban cabriolet, which could very well inspire a future model. The Fractal concept is powered by two 75 kW electric motors and a 30 kWh battery pack giving the car a range of 450km. It’s not slow either and Peugeot reckons it’s good for 6.8 seconds in the 100kph sprint. Apart from its striking styling, the Fractal Concept showcases some impressive tech too which includes a high-definition holographic heads-up display and 80% of the interior is made from 3-D printed materials. The Peugeot Fractal Concept will be shown in the metal next week at the Frankfurt Motor Show.
The Citroen Cactus M concept is based on the C4 Cactus and is designed with wet adventure in mind. The M Concept is made to deal with wet conditions and features holes in the foot wells to let water drain out. Even the seats are made from water and salt-resistant fabric which should appeal to ocean users who needn’t worry about destroying the interior. The Airbumps on the side of the car are a clever way to avoid damage caused by things like car doors and shopping trolleys crashing into the side of the car. Getting in and out of the car is easy thanks to two long doors and the M concept is able to carry surfboards too. The Cactus M Concept will also be shown at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show.
Best Premium Hatchbacks in SA 2015
Want to go for a premium hatchback that exudes status? Here are the current best buys in the premium hatchback segment.
Premium hatchbacks are a nice niche, kind of like the final bastion of youth before you make the final leap into real adulthood and family life. They still have a sense of fun about them that says the owner is still relatively young and not ready to move into the business suit world of sedans or family life with an SUV. A premium hatchback show the world youre doing well and you have a taste for luxury, refinement and performance.
In order for a car to make this list it has to be in the price range of R300 000 to R500 000. It must also offer a sense of prestige and desirability. We have allowed crossover hatches into the list as well and all vehicles need to have ESP, Dual front, side and curtain airbags.
Those arent the only prerequisites as weve weighted other key factors such as: engine technology, practicality, brand strength, design and quality appeal, ride and handling, safety and in-car entertainment.
The Audi A3 is an extremely refined product from the German manufacturer. In the Sportback derivative it offers rear doors and some added practicality. The engine is pokey at 132 kW and the S tronic automatic gearbox is one of the best on the market. It doesnt have much standard equipment however, so expect to fork out for options if you want premium in-car features. Read More
BMW 120i 5-dr M Sport Auto R428 434
The 1 Series facelift has only recently landed on our shores (May 2015) and its a much improved offering. The chassis still feels very dynamic and its rear-wheel drive layout increases the cars capabilities. Theres a 1.6-Litre turbo under the bonnet that pushes out 130 kW and the automatic gearbox is almost a default choice given the traffic on our road network. Read More
Mercedes-Benz GLA200 CDI Automatic R483 000
The GLA offers great practicality and a more comfortable ride than its A-Class sibling, thats why we gave it the nod. If youre looking to be quite active or enjoy outdoor activities then the GLA is a good fit. It has a 481-Litre boot off the bat. When equipped with the 2.1-Litre diesel engine the GLA has 100 kW and 300 Nm of torque but the best part is the fuel saving when it claims to use just 4.5L/100km. It is expensive though. Read More
Volkswagen Golf GTI DSG R432 000
The Golf GTI is a South African favourite, in fact 50 percent of Golf sales in South Africa belong to GTI. The VW badge may lack the swag of the other Germans here but it makes up for it in performance. The 2.0-Litre turbo petrol offers 162 kW and a 6.5 second 0-100kph sprint time. It still turns heads and the ride and handling is a sweet blend between performance and comfort. Read More
Volvo V40 Cross Country T4 Inscription Auto R426 400
Playing the style and suave card is the chunky Swedish crossover. The V40 Cross Country is a great looking car and offers respectable value for money. Its maybe not quite as big inside as you think but it packs a punch with its 132 kW 1.6-Litre turbo engine. The fully digital instrument cluster is one of the best out there and sets it apart from the analogue competitors here. Read More
Rolls-Royce Breaks Dawn
“The sexiest Rolls-Royce ever built”
Rolls-Royce has officially revealed its new drophead called Dawn. It claims the Dawn to be the worlds only true modern four-seater super-luxury drophead. The Dawn will be shown for the first time to the public at the Frankfurt motor show next week (September 2015).
Dawn Details
Quite simply, it is the sexiest Rolls-Royce ever built. Thats the tagline that accompanies the Dawn. Co-founder Sir Henry Royce had the aim to Strive for perfection in everything you do. Take the best that exists and make it better. When it does not exist, design it. Accept nothing nearly right or good enough. Rolls-Royce did not want the Dawn to be a 2+2 like so many drop-tops out there. It considers those cars to be compromised and anti-social. The Dawn therefore makes certain that all four occupants travel together in absolute comfort and the pinnacle of style.
Exterior details
The grille and bumper focus attention on the horizontal lines of the car rather than the traditional vertical lines of the other members of the Rolls-Royce family. The bumper now incorporates the number plate surround and a new lower air dam. Also, chrome blades act to plant the car and increase the perception of width.
The rear end of the car, echoes the design of early boat tail Rolls-Royce drophead coupes.
The interior is just as opulent, the rear seats have been designed so that passengers stand first and then step out of the vehicle. The four individual seats are cosseting and bucketed for extra comfort and support. Theres a one-of-a-kind sound system in the Dawn and the roof will pop back silently in just 22 seconds.
Underneath the bonnet
The beating heart and soul of any Rolls-Royce motor car is the beloved twin-turbo 6.6-litre V12 powertrain. With a power output of 420kW and a torque rating of 780Nm, the Dawn has more than enough drive in reserve. This experience is enhanced by a dynamic accelerator pedal mapping which delivers up to 30% increased response at medium throttle. The Dawn promises excellent steering feedback that will allow the driver to feel safe at speeds and precise anywhere the road takes them.
The Rolls-Royce Dawn is fitted with Satellite Aided Transmission, a technology that made its global debut on Wraith in 2013.
Satellite Aided Transmission utilises GPS data to allow the car to see beyond what the driver sees. It uses this information to select the most appropriate gear from the Dawns 8-speed ZF gearbox to ensure the driver is able to react appropriately, ensuring an effortless and seamless drive experience.
For example when approaching a sweeping bend, the car will predict how you wish to drive through it. When the driver lifts the accelerator it will hold the lower gear to ensure maximum power is available on accelerating through the exit of the corner.
