Mercedes-Benz GLC (2015) First Drive

Mercedes-Benz’s X3 and Q5 fighter is now on African soil. We headed to the testing conditions of Namibia to try out this new mid-size offering.

Highlights
– All models offer 4Matic all-wheel drive
– Competitively priced
– Surprisingly competent off road

The Mercedes-Benz GLC is a replacement for the GLK – a vehicle that was never manufactured in right-hand drive and therefore never offered in South Africa. This missed opportunity allowed the likes of the BMW X3 and Audi Q5 to gain significant market share in the medium-size SUV segment. The Mercedes-Benz GLC is the first step the German brand’s fight back. At launch there are four models to choose from in the GLC line-up. Two are petrol, and two are diesel, and all offer 4Matic, meaning all-wheel drive. The vehicle also comes with the new Mercedes-Benz 9G-Tronic transmission.

During the launch, we had the opportunity to drive both diesel models. The GLC 22od and GLC 250d both use the trusty 2.1-litre diesel motor that’s been in service for many years. Not only is it fairly economical, it can be tuned to deliver varying amounts of power and torque. In this application and mated to the new 9G-Tronic gearbox, the GLC offers a relaxed drive. At times however it could be almost too relaxed, as it displayed a desire to shift to a higher gear as quickly as possible, thus putting you out of the powerband when the need to accelerate arises.

Inside the Mercedes-Benz GLC

The interior of the GLC is a great place to be. It shares many parts with and is based upon the Mercedes-Benz C-Class. This is a good thing as that cabin is a luxurious techfest. Rear legroom is to be commended and tall adults will find adequate space when sitting in the back. The boot offers generous space too.

Mercedes-Benz had specified the cars generously and you get a good amount of kit as standard. The most important feature is arguably Dynamic Select which allows the driver the option to adjust the driving modes. For general driving the more comfort oriented mode is best and also prioritises low fuel consumption. For some fun, hit the Sport or Sport+ modes for a more involving and entertaining experience.

Off-road Competency

The Mercedes-Benz GLC is marketed as a mid-size luxury SUV. While it does boast 4Matic all-wheel drive and reasonable ground clearance, it’s not intended to be a serious off-roader, just like its rivals from Audi and BMW. Sure, you can specify the Off-Road Line which gives it a hardcore off-road appearance, but your best bet is to get the Off-Road Engineering Package, which gives you five off-road modes as well as raised suspension. You get 20mm extra ground clearance to play with, but if you have Air Body Control as much as 50mm extra clearance is gained. When it’s in full attack mode, there’s 227mm of ground clearance which is certainly very useful.

Our off-road testing of the GLC put it in situations where many serious off-roaders would struggle, but the car coped admirably. The thick beach sand was a killer and the 40 degree temperatures ensured the sand was loose. The one time we got stuck we were thankful for the lumbering G-Class, which towed us out. The reality is that few owners would be willing to get their GLCs this dirty and we doubt that the cars pictured here will ever go this far off the beaten track again.

On-Road Manners

While we didn’t spend much time driving the new Mercedes-Benz GLC on tarmac, the few kilometres behind the wheel gave us some great feedback. See, the GLC rides on varying wheel sizes – all of which offer reasonable high profile rubber. Our GLC 250d was fitted with generous 19-inch alloys and imperfect roads such as those between Swakopmund and Walvis Bay were effortlessly soaked up. The reality is that the GLC rides well, something which the younger generation of Mercedes-Benz products like the pre-facelifted A-Class battled with.The new A-Class thankfully rides a lot better.

Mercedes-Benz SUV Onslaught

The launch of the new Mercedes-Benz GLC was part of a bigger new product experience. The GLE range has been expanded to now include the non-coupe models and this is the anticipated replacement for the ML, while the lumbering G-Class which we drove not so long ago in Austria and Germany, also came along to play in the sand.

We had a brief stint in the fire-breathing GLE 63 AMG S model, which offers a tremendous amount of power from its biturbo V8 engine. Snarling engine and brisk performance aside, the GLE 63 AMG S is a fine place to be, both from a driver and a passenger’s perspective. That sound is mesmerising and given the right set of wheels, it looks massively intimidating, which is core to its appeal. Inside, features are of the highest order in terms of quality, which is something you’d expect from a vehicle costing close on R2-million.

Summary

The Mercedes-Benz GLC acquits itself rather well and despite what we (and Namibia) threw at it, it performed capably. We’d argue that these testing conditions were hardly what your average GLC owner would be facing, but it’s reassuring that the vehicle can cope in even the harshest terrain.

The GLC is a good product and we expect it will steal substantial sales from Audi’s Q5, which is due to be replaced, as well as the BMW X3. Pricing is on par with its German rivals and the levels of specification count heavily in its favour, plus the looks are substantially fresher. We also think it’ll dip into Range Rover Evoque sales. Brand prestige also comes into play here and we think the three-pointed star on the nose offers significant snob value. Nevertheless, brand value and other intangible qualities aside, the GLC will do well in South Africa and we look forward to digging deeper and getting to know it better, far away from the dust and sand of Namibia.

Mercedes-Benz GLC Price in South Africa

The new Mercedes-Benz GLC pricing and engine outputs are as follows:

GLC 220 d 4MATIC 125 kW – 400 Nm R599 900
GLC 250 d 4MATIC 150 kW – 500 Nm R619 900
GLC 250 4MATIC 155 kW – 350 Nm R604 900
GLC 300 4MATIC 180 kW – 370 Nm R654 900

Best Fun Cars in SA 2015

 

In the final category of the 2015 Cars Awards, we look at the category that sets your heart racing. Welcome to the Fun Car.

It’s time to check out the cars petrolheads are most interested in – the fun car category. It’s not all about acceleration and top speed and certainly not about practicality. What we are looking for here is a car that gives us that special feeling of happiness and spine tingling fizz after every jaunt behind the wheel.

In order to not break the bank and make this about supercars, we set a budget of R600 000. Then we started to look at engagement, the thing that makes you feel at one with the machine, especially in terms of the engine and gearbox combination. Handling is an obvious trait every fun car must have, but not scary oversteer that turns every journey into a survival mission. We’re thinking more along the lines of feel and feedback from the chassis and steering as well as driver enjoyment.

We didn’t discount the exterior appeal that comes with owning a fun car. It needs to have some sort of aesthetic appeal and sporty appearance.

Our final pillar of success took standard features into account. It’s all very well having a track-ready machine, but if it doesn’t have aircon or electrics, it’s hardly going to be useable every day.

Best Fun Cars in SA 2015

Audi TT 2.0T S tronic R566 500

The days are gone when the TT was considered just a cool design with no real substance underneath. This latest version hits all the marks with its powerful 2-Litre engine and amazingly slick S tronic gearbox. The front-wheel drive model is especially nimble and light offering a great experience on a country road. The new interior is also a techfest with a really cool digital display that can be changed to suit what you want displayed. Read more

BMW M235i Steptronic R586 846

The perfect car for the rear-wheel drive enthusiast. It delivers on so many levels. There’s an abundance of grip from the rubber and the chassis feel borders on telepathic. The straight-six turbocharged engine howls in the upper end of the rev range whilst it pumps out 240 kW. The 2-Series shape is also arguably BMW’s best looking car at the moment especially with all the M trim that comes with the M235i. Read More

Ford Fiesta ST R276 900

The Ford Fiesta is the quintessential pocket rocket hatch. The price is a bargain compared to its rivals and the handling is playful, keeping you entertained for hours. It’s got enough power to keep you thrilled and drag it by the scruff of the neck to get the most out of it. Adding to the cool factor is that around tight bends, it will pick up the inside rear wheel and ‘three-leg it’ all the way round. Read More

Renault Megane RS Trophy 275 R449 900

The Megane Trophy is by far the most track-focused vehicle among our Fun Cars finalists. The chassis is stiff and the steering heavy but gives race-car like feedback. It’s got plenty of grunt with 201 kW available from its 2-Litre turbo engine. If its lap records you want to set then this is the car for you but it is quite harsh on bumpy roads and every day driving. Read More

Toyota 86 High R393 800

Think of the Toyota 86 as an entry into real-wheel drive sports car driving. It’s not overpowered but offers its thrills in high doses of oversteer. It’s seriously easy to get the tail out and just as easy to hold it out there. There’s a short shifting manual gearbox and a low seating position to really get you in the mood every time you get behind the wheel. Read More

Porsche Macan GTS Revealed

 

Porsche has revealed details of its Macan GTS, coming to SA in 2016!

Sharing much of its wardrobe with the Macan S, the Macan GTS crossover features slightly revised exterior styling, a reworked interior and a retuned 3.0-litre V6 engine.

Styling Features

On the outside, the major changes include high gloss and matte black accents while the Macan GTS rides on 20-inch RS Spyder Design wheels that are finished in Satin Black. The dark wheels contrast nicely with the red brake callipers of the high-performance braking system. Optional LED headlights feature Porsche’s four-point daytime running lights, as well as a cornering light function. The Macan GTS also sits some 10mm lower when compared to the Macan Turbo.

On the inside, the Macan GTS is fitted with leather and Alcantara GTS sport seats with GTS logos on the headrests. The model benefits from the Porsche Communication Management system which is fitted as standard and music lovers will appreciate the 8-speaker sound system with USB, Auxiliary and Bluetooth connectivity. A navigation module is available as an option which supports a 3-D navigation display, satellite image overlays and route calculation.

Power To Macan GTS

Lurking beneath the bonnet is an uprated 3.0-litre twin turbo V6 engine that’s been tuned to produce 268 kW and 500 Nm of torque through a 7-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission. All-wheel drive ensures maximum performance and the Macan GTS sprints from 0-100kph in under 5 seconds before reaching a top speed of 256 kph with the optional Sport Chrono Package fitted.

Porsche’s Stability Management system has been specifically recalibrated for the Macan GTS which improves driving dynamics. The Macan GTS also features air suspension including the Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) which comes standard and allows the driver to adjust ride height and damper stiffness to suit just about any driving situation.

The good news is that the Macan GTS is available for order in South Africa, with deliveries expected in the second quarter of 2016. Pricing however is yet to be confirmed by Porsche South Africa. We will keep you updated as soon as pricing for the Macan GTS is revealed.

Subaru Impreza 5-Door Concept Shown in Tokyo

The Tokyo Motor Show is well underway and it was Subaru’s turn to display something new and interesting. Subaru unveiled the 5-door concept Impreza, which it says will be an entry model into the Impreza lineup.

Subaru Impreza 5-door Concept details

Minimal details are available on the specifications of the hatch Impreza but Subaru has stated that it forms part of its ‘prominence 2020’. The goal is to increase sales by 20% by 2020. Also Subaru will introduce a new platform and work on improving the fuel efficiency of its engines.

The Impreza 5-door concept sits as a solid C-segment offering (Golf, Astra, Megane etc.). It will have impressive aerodynamic efficiency and an upgrade to the overall quality feel of the car.

‘Hawk eye’ headlights make a return to the front-end which has been designed to look low and wide. In total the Impreza 5-door concept measures 4400mm long, 1880mm wide and 1440mm tall with a wheelbase of 2670mm.

The Impreza 5-door will still come with Subaru’s legendary all-wheel drive setup.

Drag Race: BMW X6 M vs Mercedes-AMG GLE63 S Coupe

 

SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO

When it comes to tarmac devouring mammoth SUVs, two manufacturers reign supreme. BMW and Mercedes-Benz. There are a few other models on the periphery but these two are top of the pile when it comes to laying down huge numbers into an SUV and still getting it to turn a corner. As far as this drag race goes, the numbers are nearly identical everywhere you look.

Power and torque are slightly in the favour of the Mercedes-AMG with its 5.5-Litre biturbo V8 pushing out 430 kW and 760 Nm. The BMW is hardly an underdog though with its 4.4-Litre twin-turbo V8 capable of 423 kW and 750 Nm. Zero to 100kph is exactly the same at a claimed 4.2 seconds and both have to be electronically restrained at 250kph. The BMW has a slightly faster shifting gearbox but the margins in every department are minimal. The prices, while bordering extortion are similar too. The BMW will set you back R1 757 659 and the Merc a little more at R1 876 111.

Both machines are coupe SUV’s, a segment that BMW created with its first generation BMW X6. Mercedes-Benz is joining the fray with its version of a coupe SUV in hopes of stealing sales from its long-time rival.

As we sat on the start line, we expected this to be a close race. The two giants sat with their exhaust pipes banging away, louder than anything we have drag raced before. It really was a shouting match between two loud-mouthed heavyweight boxers going at each other pre-fight.

Take a look at the video below to see who wins this mighty drag race, a title we don’t see being lifted from its shoulders any time soon.

BMW X6 M vs Mercedes-AMG GLE63 S Coupe Video

 

Mazda RX-Vision Concept Shown in Tokyo

 

Mazda will be showcasing the RX-Vision Concept at the Tokyo Motor Show this week!

According to Mazda, the RX-Vision Rotary Sports Car Concept represents a ‘vision of the future’ as the company continues its research and development in the evolution of the rotary engine. The RX-Vision introduces the next generation SKYACTIV-R rotary engine and although it’s only a concept, it hints at the possible future of Mazda’s RX sports car family.

RX-Vision Design Features

The RX-Vision Concept adopts a front-engine, rear wheel drive sports car layout featuring Mazda’s KODO design philosophy, drawing on Mazda’s history in sports car design.

The RX-Vision stands 4389mm long, 1925mm wide and 1160mm tall with a wheelbase of 2700mm. Compared to Mazda’s previous rotary powered RX-8, the RX-Vision is shorter, wider and lower and rides on 20-inch black alloy wheels.

For the interior, handcrafted detailing and machined finishes are complemented with leather trim. The RX-Vision Concept is also kitted out with a three-spoke steering wheel and a bespoke instrument cluster.

Mazda hasn’t revealed much regarding the SKYACTIV-R rotary engine but the company did say that the engine “represents Mazda’s next significant step towards achieving a breakthrough in addressing three key rotary engine issues – fuel economy, emissions performance and reliability.”

The Mazda RX-Vision Concept will make its debut at the Tokyo Motor Show which runs from 29 November to 8 November 2015.

New MINI Convertible Coming to SA in 2016

 

Mini recently revealed its new convertible and it will go on sale in South Africa in the first quarter of 2016!

The new Mini Convertible is bound for South Africa early next year and will bring fun driving dynamics to the premium small car segment. With its four seat layout and soft-top roof, the new fourth iteration of the Mini Convertible is longer, wider and slightly higher than the outgoing model. Three engine variants will be available on launch.

Mini Convertible Design

In terms of design, the new Mini Convertible is defined by a hexagonal radiator grille along with recognisable circular headlamps and rear lights with chrome surrounds. The body is also complemented with a black peripheral surround and side indicator elements. A new exterior colour called ‘Caribbean Aqua Metallic’ makes an appearance for the first time too, as seen in the images above.

The soft-top roof is fully automatic and features a sliding roof function too. The roof opens and closes in 18-seconds at speeds up to 30kph. The roof is also available with a unique woven Union Jack graphic.

In addition to its increase in size, the new Mini Convertible boasts increased comfort levels thanks to the improved range of the front seat adjustment which makes entry and exit for rear passengers easier. Luggage space has improved by 25% according to Mini, totalling 215-litres with the roof closed and 160-litres with the roof down.

The Mini Cooper Convertible will be available with either 15 or 16-inch light alloy wheels as standard while 18-inch examples will be offered as an option.

Engine Lineup

Three engines will be available at launch including two petrol and one diesel engine. Powering the Mini Cooper Convertible is the 3-cylinder 1.5-litre turbo petrol offering 100 kW and 220 Nm of torque.

Next up is the 2.0-litre turbo petrol in the Cooper S Convertible with power at 141 kW and 280 Nm of torque. 300 Nm is possible thanks to an overboost function.

For diesel heads, there will be a 3-cylinder, 1.5-litre turbodiesel on offer in the Cooper D Convertible with 85 kW and 270 Nm of torque, or 300 Nm with overboost.

A 6-speed manual is fitted as standard while a 6-speed Steptronic transmission will be available as an option.

We will keep you updated as local pricing becomes available closer to the launch of the Mini Convertible in the first quarter of 2016.

Nissan IDS Concept Previews Next Leaf (Video)

 

The all-electric Nissan Leaf is due for replacement soon and this IDS Concept seems to be the likely inspiration for the upcoming model. The IDS also focuses on developing artificial intelligence (AI) into a workable autonomous driving solution.

Nissan IDS Concept Details

Nissan Intelligent Driving is Nissan’s concept of autonomous drive technology and represents what Nissan believes next-generation vehicles should be. “Nissan Intelligent Driving improves a driver’s ability to see, think and react. It compensates for human error, which causes more than 90 percent of all car accidents. As a result, time spent behind the wheel is safer, cleaner, more efficient and more fun.” said Nissan president and CEO Carlos Ghosn.

The design of the Nissan IDS concept is heavily inspired by aerodynamics and reducing the vehicle’s drag. It’s low at just 1.38m and runs tyres that are just 17.5mm wide. The wheels have a layered design suggestive of thin fins that create tiny vortexes of air flow on the wheel’s surface. This design further contributes to smooth air flow.

Two Autonomous driving modes

The Nissan IDS does not need to be driven in autonomous mode only, there is a second manual mode where the driver can take over the controls. Behind the scenes, the Nissan IDS Concept continues to provide assistance. Sensors continually monitor conditions and assistance is still available. In the event of imminent danger, Nissan IDS Concept will assist the driver in taking evasive action.

When in autonomous mode the IDS Concept does its best to act like the driver would, learning from their driving style. It will mimic the driver’s style and preferences.

Improved Electric power

The next evolution of battery power is said to still be under construction as Nissan investigates new technologies to improve range and efficiency. The IDS concept is fitted with a 60 kWh, compared to the current Leaf which is powered by a 24 kWh battery. The IDS makes use of carbon fibre to drop weight as well as its efficient aerodynamic shape to make long journeys possible on electric power.

 

Mercedes-Benz V220 CDI Avantgarde (2015) Review

 

If you really want to go tour the country in the lap of luxury and convenience, it doesn’t get much better than the new Mercedes-Benz V-Class.

Highlights
-Luxury sedan-like cabin features
–Vast space and load-carrying ability
–Eye-wateringly expensive

The large MPV (multi-purpose vehicle) market may be relatively small when you exclude vehicles purchased for fleet or shuttling duties, but a weekend spent with Mercedes-Benz’s ultra-luxurious and versatile new V-Class certainly highlighted the numerous charms. For active families that like to tour, it may just be peerless. But it comes at a price.

Less van-like in appearance

To better compete with the upcoming Volkswagen T6 Kombi/Caravelle, and to position the V-Class as the “S-Class” of MPVs, this Mercedes-Benz has had a rather extensive make-over. The front-end has been modernised to fall into line with all the latest Mercedes-Benz models, complete with LED-infused, adaptive headlamps that also boast High Beam Assist. At the rear, the crisp new tail lamp design also include LEDs.

Overall, the V-Class now looks significantly less utilitarian, at least partly because this model also comes with Avantgarde trim as standard, which includes neat 18-inch Titanium grey alloy wheels and roof rails. Further highlighting the fact that this model has been specified with some long-distance touring in mind is the standard removable towbar.

Made for luxury touring

The interior is so vast and so filled with toys and gadgets that our tester struggled to get his kids out of the V-Class, even after four hours of driving… Let’s start at the front. Facing the driver is a facia that wouldn’t look out of place in a Mercedes SUV. Most of the controls, including the neat COMAND touch pad and scroller as well as the high-resolution display screen are shared with other Mercedes-Benz models. The company has worked hard to infuse the V-Class’s cabin with a premium look and feel – black leather and satin-effect aluminium trim combine well to drive the message home that you’re driving a Mercedes-Benz… not a bus.

It also gets all the latest Mercedes toys, including heated and ventilated front seats, a top-notch Burmester sound system with 15 speakers, the COMAND on-line infotainment system with an 80Gb hard drive and Distronic Plus, which allows you to set a following distance to the vehicle in front, with the vehicle automatically accelerating and braking to maintain that distance. There’s much more…

Pull on the door handle of one of the side doors and it will slide open automatically. Various seating options are available, but our test unit features a reversed (facing rearwards) centre row comprising of two individual chairs, and a more traditional three-seat rear row. All the seats can slide independently and can be removed. However, this removal part is not so easy, as the chairs are bulky and heavy. Fitted between the two middle-row seats, but able to slide as well, is a console that can be transformed into a pop-up table, perfect for work (or snacks). Those seated in the rear part of the V-Class have access to their own ventilation controls and outlets.

And the boot? Even with all seats taken, there is still vast space. The load area is cut in half by a sturdy parcel shelf that can carry 50 kg of stuff. Pop it open and inside the parcel shelf you will find nifty expandable shopping containers – Mercedes really has thought about everything. The vast tailgate, of course, opens and closes with electrical assistance, too.

Refined cruising

Powering the V220 CDI Avantgarde is a 2.1-litre, four-cylinder turbodiesel that delivers 120 kW and 380 Nm of torque. Power goes to the rear wheels via the company’s ubiquitous seven-speed 7G-Tronic transmission. With all the torque already available at a low 1 400 rpm, the V-Class feels eager to get going from the word go once the initial lag has been overcome. It’s a refined engine and a good long-distance companion, as it has enough power to execute overtaking manoeuvres with relative ease. With regards to fuel consumption, Mercedes-Benz claims a combined cycle (average) figure of 5.7L/100km, but we could not achieve this. Keep in mind, however, that our test saw the V220 CDI cover 800 km fully loaded, with a bicycle rack attached to the rear, too. We achieved an average consumption figure of just under 9L/100 km.

With its high seating position, loads of goodies and willing engine, the V-Class is a nice vehicle to drive over long distances. It’s less at home in the city, however. Its sheer size makes it a tricky vehicle to find parking for. At least an automated parking system is fitted to help with this. Given its size and underpinnings, it is also not the most sophisticated vehicle when it comes to changing direction. The steering is a bit vague and the ride offers a rather strange combination of firm damping and body roll. That said, none of these criticisms are likely to be high priority items for potential buyers.

Conclusion and Summary

The Mercedes-Benz V220 CDI Avantgarde is a stunningly luxurious family tourer (or VIP shuttle) that makes driving to your holiday destination part of the fun. Is it R200 000 better than a top-specification Volkswagen Caravelle, however? It’s a difficult question to answer, especially as the Volkswagen is being replaced soon. Right now the Mercedes has not only a status advantage, but also benefits from all the brand’s latest technologies. If you don’t need an SUV’s all-wheel drive, but go on long-distance family trips often, then we can’t think of a finer way to travel.

Mercedes-Benz V220 CDI Avantgarde Price in South Africa

The Mercedes-Benz V220 CDI Avantgarde costs R949 175 and comes with a two-year/unlimited km warranty and six-year/100 000 km Maintenance plan.

Test Team Opinion

The Mercedes-Benz is perhaps best enjoyed as a passenger, where the premium features and comfort are highlighted. The vehicle comes exceptionally well appointed, but its high asking price will raise some eyebrows. If ever there was an award for Best Airport Shuttle, this would win hands down. -David Taylor

We Like: Versatility, luxury, standard specification, refined engine

We don’t Like: Ride refinement under certain conditions

Also consider: Volkswagen Caravelle, Chrysler Grand Voyager

Compare the Mercedes-Benz V220 to its rivals here.

Mercedes-Benz V220 Specifications

Ford B-Max In-Depth Video Review

 

We put Ford’s B-Max into the studio where Ciro De Siena examines just how practical and sensible it really is. 

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Ford launched its B-Max MPV in South Africa earlier in 2015 and it received a mixed reception. People couldn’t understand why a consumer would purchase one of these when you could already have the best of Ford with the rather good Fiesta and the popular EcoSport. Ford claims this vehicle is super practical thanks to the lack of a visible B-pillar and the unique rear sliding doors.

Ciro Di Siena puts the Ford B-Max practicality and sensibleness to the test with this video. It has a lot to offer ranging from the entertaining 1.0-litre three-cylinder, Ford SYNC bluetooth connectivity as well as clever folding seats. What other tricks does it offer? Watch the video and find out.

Ford B-Max Video