The Ford B-Max will be launched in South Africa in the third quarter of 2015. The B-Max is a small, but practical MPV with rear sliding doors. It will also be offered with Fords potent 1-Litre Ecoboost engine.
The Ford B-Max sits on the Fiesta platform, but makes the most of the space to create a roomy MPV. There are no B-pillars so the feeling of space is enhanced and the rear seats can be folded flat in one movement.
B-Max to feature Ecoboost
Ford South Africa has not revealed all the details on what engines will be brought in and will only do so at the launch later this year. It has said that the 1.0-Litre Ecoboost engine will be amongst the range choices. Overseas markets also have a choice of a diesel and naturally aspirated 1.4-Litre.
The MPV market is seemingly a segment that manufacturers want to expose currently as the trend this year was started with the introduction of the BMW Active Tourer. Since then theres been a new Merc B-Class and a VW Golf SV added to the mix. The B-Max plays in a segment slightly below that however and is more likely to fight alongside the likes of the Opel Meriva.
Volkswagen Polo GTI (2015) First Drive
The pocket-sized Volkswagen Polo GTI is now in its third generation and was launched to the South African media late last week.
Volkswagen Polo GTI Heritage
The Polo GTI first arrived back in 2006 and came with a useful 1.8-litre turbo boasting 110 kW. It was the best selling small hot hatch with almost 2 800 units sold. The second generation arrived in 2011 and this particular Polo GTI really upset the pocket rocket fraternity thanks to its performance. Its secret was a 132 kW 1.4-litre turbo engine combined with the quick-shifting DSG transmission. In traffic light grand prix races, this little thing was deadly fast and often embarrassed faster and flashier machinery. It was a real case of dynamite comes in small packages.
The third generation still follows a similar recipe, but the engine has grown in size. The 1.4 is gone and in its place is a 1.8-litre turbo with 141 kW and 250 Nm. The DSG transmission stays and performance is rated at 6.7 seconds for the standard 0-100kph sprint. The best news however is that a manual gearbox will become available later this year and that will have 320 Nm. The reason behind the torque difference is apparently the DSG unit in the Polo can’t handle all that grunt. Despite the 70 Nm difference, performance for both models remains the same.
Visual Appeal
From the exterior the new Volkswagen Polo GTI looks a lot sharper and more aggressive than the outgoing model. The old GTI wheels have been replaced by very attractive Parabolicca alloys, there’s some smart LED headlights. Some of the trademark GTI styling cues have been retained such as the daytime running lights as well as red trim around the front bumper. Build quality both inside and out is really solid. Think of this then as a baby Golf 7 GTI – a compliment indeed!
What’s It Like To Drive?
Much like the old Polo GTI, straight line acceleration is impressive with the DSG box seamlessly changing cogs with the stereotypical exhaust pop between gears. Its not as loud as I had hoped, but it’s nevertheless an effortless performer. You can also change gears by using the paddles located behind the steering wheel. For more information and details about the new Volkswagen Polo GTI’s specifications and features, click here.
Throw some corners into the mix and the Polo GTI continues to be a solid performer. There’s no drama from the front wheels as the clever stability control & e-diff keeps things in check. Grab the car by the scruff of the neck and give it the boot, and still the car shows little sign of waywardness. The launch route took us through two of the best driving roads in Cape Town – a sign that Volkswagen SA wanted us to really experience what its little car is capable of.
Criticisms? As far as a daily drive goes, the Polo GTI is a hard act to follow. However it’s a little lacking in the aural and emotional departments. Could it be too clinical? Don’t get me wrong, you can really have some fun with the thing, but its not pulling at my heartstrings like a Fiesta ST does. Perhaps I need some more time with it and take some time to get under its skin.
VW Polo GTI Price in South Africa
1.8 TSI 141 kW GTI DSG R326 400
The new Polo GTI comes standard with a 3 year/45 000km Service Plan, 3 year/120 000km warranty and a 12 year anti-corrosion warranty. Service interval is 15 000km.
New Chevrolet Cruze specs and pricing
The facelifted Chevrolet Cruze is currently making its way to dealerships across the country and a media launch is scheduled for 23 April. We are, however, in the position to reveal the line-up, pricing and some specification details a few weeks prior to introduction. The Cruze is a vital model for Chevrolet and has thus far sold more than three million units globally. It competes with strong rivals such as the Volkswagen Golf/Jetta, Toyota Corolla/Auris, Hyundai Elantra/i30, Ford Focus and, lets not forget its sibling, the Opel Astra.
Although the changes are not major, they have been effective in giving the Cruze a fresh new appearance. Tweaks to the front end include the grille and a redesigned lower airdam with neatly integrated LED lamps and projection-style foglamps. At the rear the differences are even harder to spot, and include an integrated spoiler and new light detailing. Some new colours are also offered, including a hue called Red Bean Smoothie. Chevrolet has also refreshed the alloy wheel selection (16- and 17-inch wheels are available).
The interior design always a Cruze strongpoint continues with only minor detail changes to some of the controls and trim, but the big news is the arrival of General Motors MyLink infotainment system, standard on most models. This smart, full-colour display is positioned near the top of the centre controls stack. The upmarket ambience gets a further boost courtesy of the ice-blue interior lighting.
The revised model line-up still consists of sedan and hatchback bodystyles, but the impressive 2.0-litre diesel engine appears to have been dropped from the range. L and LS trim levels are offered, with LS derivatives adding such items as ESP, traction control, a passenger airbag deactivation switch and six airbags. Note the hatchback is available only in LS specification.
Optional extras available on some models include leather upholstery, sunroof and a Drivers Pack (climate control and rear park assist).
New Chevrolet Cruze Pricing
Chevrolet Cruze Sedan 1.6 L R230 400
Chevrolet Cruze Hatch 1.6 LS R248 300
Chevrolet Cruze Sedan 1.6 LS R247 200
Chevrolet Cruze Hatch 1.4T LS R265 200
Chevrolet Cruze Sedan 1.4T LS R262 500
Chevrolet Cruze Sedan 1.4T LS Automatic R272 400
Engine Lineup
The 1.6-litre models engine delivers 88 kW and 155 Nm and is coupled with a five-speed manual transmission. This model has a claimed combined cycle consumption figure of 6.7L/100 km. Those consumers who want a bit more zip without a fuel consumption penalty can opt for one of the 1.4-litre turbopetrols, offering 103 kW and 200 Nm of torque. Fitted to the Cruze Sedan 1.4T LS, this engine is claimed to only consume 5.8L/100 km. A six-speed automatic model is also offered (mated with the 1.4-litre turbopetrol engine). This model is claimed to consume 6.8L/100 km in the combined cycle.
All Cruze models come standard with a 5-year/120 000 km warranty.
Check back this Friday to see our first drive story on the new Chev Cruze.
McLaren 540C Coupe Revealed
McLaren has taken the wraps off the 540C Coupe which joins the recently revealed 570S Coupe in McLaren’s Sports Series. The 540C Coupe was revealed at the Shanghai Motor Show and serves as the entry point to the brand and will be available worldwide.
McLaren 540C Coupe is no baby
Despite its entry point positioning, the McLaren 540C Coupe is a serious piece of machinery. With its race-inspired technology and carbon fibre chassis, the 540C Coupe comes fitted with a 3.8-litre twin turbocharged V8 engine that offers up a healthy 397 kW and 540 Nm of torque.
Transmission comes in the form of a seven-speed seamless shift gearbox (SSG) which enables the 540C Coupe to sprint to 100kph in 3.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 320kph. 0-200kph only takes 10.5 seconds.
The MonoCell II chassis has been designed to make the 540C Coupe more practical for everyday driving. Weighing only 1 311 kg, the 540C Coupe is some 150 kg lighter than its closest competitor.
Exterior Features
The McLaren 540C features aero blades below the front bumper and are flanked by large LED headlights. The rear diffuser is positioned between the twin exhausts while dihedral doors optimises airflow along the length of the car. An integrated rear spoiler provides much needed downforce when driving with purpose.
The 540C Coupe rides on 20-inch cast alloy wheels at the rear and 19-inch rims at the front in either silver or stealth finish. The newly-developed suspension system has been tuned for everyday driving and the adaptive dampers give the driver the choice between ‘Normal’, ‘Sport’ and ‘Track’ settings.
Interior Features
The interior has a clear focus on space and ergonomics and comes kitted out in leather upholstery for the seats, dashboard and lower doors. The ‘floating’ centre console comes fitted with a 7-inch IRIS touchscreen which takes care of infotainment but also houses the controls for the air conditioning, minimising switchgear in the cabin. Everything including the electronic owners manual, DAB digital radio, Bluetooth, satellite navigation, media streaming, voice activation and audio media player are controlled via the IRIS screen.
Drag Race: VW Golf 7 R vs Subaru STI (Video)
When you think about a compact, powerful, all-wheel drive car, its difficult not to think of the Subaru STI. It is a car that has defined a segment for as long as anyone cares to remember. But the times they are achanging, and in some ways, the STI just hasnt.
Just a few years ago, this race would have been rather silly. But with the latest generation of Golf, VW has not only attacked the territory dominated by the STI, but is running wild.
The current generation Subaru STI has exactly 221kW. As we learnt in our Golf R feature film, the Golf 7 R has 221kW. But thats in Europe where its cold. Here in Africa where its hot, VW had to downtune the 2.0 litre, turbocharged motor to 206kW.
Both cars have clever all-wheel drive systems and I have no doubt that the STI would be quicker around a track; it is simply more hardcore and better set up for that purpose. But in reality, most owners will need the cars to perform in a straight line, when pride is at stake at the traffic lights.
And heres the crucial difference, the STI is only available with a manual box, while the Golf R can be fitted with DSG VWs double clutch gearbox.
And so we were very excited to put these two cars together on Killarneys quarter mile drag strip. We ran the race multiple times and this was the closest result
Well have many more drag race videos coming out over the next few weeks, featuring cars like the Mercedes CLS 63 AMG and the A45 AMG, Audi S3 and VW Scirocco R. Make sure you dont miss a thing by subscribing to our Youtube channel here
Keeping the Scirocco name alive is this new GTS model, a throwback to the 1982 VW Scirocco GTS. This new GTS model has a slight power upgrade, some exterior add-ons and a slight revamp to the interior styling.
More Power for Scirocco GTS
The Scirocco GTS has an additional 7 kW over the standard 2.0-Litre turbo, taking it up to 162 kW, the same as the latest Golf GTI. Zero to 100kph is claimed at 6.5 seconds with top speed at 244kph. If you choose the manual gearbox over the DSG, the top speed increases to 246kph.
Special Exterior
The Scirocco GTS will be equipped as standard with new 18-inch alloy wheels, with 19-inch alloy being available as an option. The red brake callipers of the GTS can be seen through the spokes of both of these wheel options. In addition, the Scirocco GTS comes with the R-Line package “Exterieur” as standard, which includes distinctive R-style bumpers, custom side sill extensions, a roof spoiler and a diffuser. The wing mirror caps are painted in stylish black and, just like its predecessor, the ’82 Scirocco GTS, the new model can be ordered with a sporty GTS decal for the body as an option. This option features two decorative red stripes that run centrally from the bonnet over the roof and the boot (if the car is painted in “Flash Red” the stripes are black). The new Scirocco is also enhanced by 3D GTS logos in the radiator grille and on the tailgate.
Black and Red interior
The theme inside the Scirocco GTS is black and red and just about everything gets this treatment. A few of the touches include decorative inlays in “Piano Black Lacquer ” in the centre console and the dashboard, GTS badges on the sill panels, a steering wheel with red seams and the lower spoke finished in “Black Piano Lacquer” (with the GTS logo). The pedals are stainless steel and the seat covers feature centre panels made of a new material (with the GTS logo at the top of the backrest) and red decorative stitching. The GTS package also includes a golf ball gear knob and contrasting red seams for the safety belts, handbrake lever, gear lever gaiter, central armrest and floor mats.
Audi Prologue Allroad – A8 Crossover Possible?
Keen spectators of Audi concepts of late may have spotted the Audi Prologue concept revealed in November 2014 at the LA auto show. Since then it has also taken the wraps off an Avant version and now we have the Audi Prologue Allroad a raised ride height, off road sort of version.
Audi Prologue Allorad details
The Prologue Allroad is a soft roader that probably showcases what the new A8 Estate is likely to look like. The A8 itself is due for replacement in 2016. This Prologue Allroad is said to be a hybrid version coupled with Audis 4.0 V8 twin-turbo TFSI motor. The result is a total of 445 kW and 750 Nm and a 0-100kph time of just 3.7 seconds. Audi also claims it will use just 8.7L/100km thanks to the hybrid tech. As expected, the Prologue Allroad harnesses Audi Quattro all-wheel drive.
Riding on 22-inch wheels, the Prologue Allroad is lifted 77mm further off the ground than a standard Prologue Avant and comes with a bit of bumper cladding to make it look more rugged. The front grille is also specific to the electric range within Audi and the concept can be charged by driving over a charging plate and left to do its own thing.
Interior has its own butler
The interior is a feast of Audi tech that includes the Audi butler an intelligent software program that identifies the occupant based on their smartphone and adjusts the seats and climate control system according to their preferences. The system also makes recommendations for music and route planning that are oriented towards the owners preferences. The rest of the interior is pretty much as good as Audi can do, theres tons of leather and brushed aluminium and digital screens for absolutely everything including the binnacle dials.
Peugeot 308 R Hybrid 0-100kph in 4 Seconds
Hatchbacks have been getting more and more insane over the last decade. It started with 150 kW being the perceived optimum output for a front-wheel drive hatch, now were seeing upwards of 180 kW in most cases. Now with four-wheel drive, vehicles like the Golf R can happily pump out over 200 kW with the Merc A-Class A45 AMG making a massive 265 kW. Peugeot now, with the help of hybrid technology claims its 308 R Hybrid churns out 368 kW and 730 Nm of torque.
Four-wheel drive
Firstly the Peugeot 308 R Hybrid is four-wheel drive to help put the power to the ground, the track width is also 80mm longer. Two batteries are also plugged into the power make-up and work in tandem with a 1.6-Litre turbo petrol motor. The petrol motor on its own pushes out 199 kW and 330 Nm of torque. The two batteries make up the rest of the power, contributing 85 kW and 200 Nm of torque each.
In a sprint to 100kph the Peugeot 308 R Hybrid wipes the floor with every hot hatch, claiming 4 seconds flat. Top speed is limited to 250kph but Peugeot says that the 308 R Hybrid is built for track mode.
4 Modes to choose from
The toggle button on the central console is used to select one of the four driving modes: – Hot Lap mode is the most powerful, harnessing the full potential from the three power sources to reach a total of 368 kW and maximum torque of 730 Nm. – Track mode delivers 298 kW and 530 Nm, mainly from the petrol engine and the rear electric motor. The front electric motor serves as an additional booster when accelerating. – Road mode is specially designed for road use with power of 223 kW and torque of 400 Nm. The petrol engine delivers its full potential while the rear electric motor helps during accelerations. The front electric motor is not used in this mode. ZEV makes priority use of the rear electric motor to drive the 308 R HYbrid. The front electric motor comes into play, depending on the pressure applied by the driver on the accelerator pedal.
308 R Hybrid details
Obviously being a hybrid model its fuel consumption will be impressive as it can run in full electric mode. Peugeot hasnt got a fuel consumption figure yet but claims 70g/km of CO2 is emitted. Weight is kept down to a minimum and is distributed throughout the chassis with a 60/40 bias towards the front.
Inside the 308 R Hybrid has four individual bucket seats and paddle shifters for the six-speed gearbox. Theres dashes of Alcantara and leather throughout the cabin and a heads-up display unit. Those wheels are 19-inches and two-tone colour scheme seems set to stay.
Volkswagen Polo GTI Specs and Pricing
It seems VW isnt entirely certain what the best engine is for the Polo GTI. Initially it had a 1.8-Litre turbo that was a bit pap, then the next generation had a 1.4-Litre turbo that wasnt pap and was more powerful than the 1.8-Litre and turned the GTI into a proper pocket rocket. Now, for this latest Polo GTI, VW is back to a 1.8-Litre turbo – but a better one. David Taylor will be attending the local launch on 17 April 2015, look out for his first drive soon after.
Manual transmission
From the second half of 2015, the new Polo GTI will be offered with a manual transmission. At launch, only the 7-speed DSG transmission will be available. With both transmission variants, the new Polo GTI accelerates from 0 to 100kph in 6.7 seconds. Fuel consumption is claimed at 5.6L/100 km with the 7-speed DSG and 6.0L/100km with the 6-speed manual.
The exterior of the Polo GTI features new bumpers, flared door sills, the GTI logo on the front wing and GTI insignia such as the red strips in the radiator grille and headlights. The Polo GTI is also available with optional LED headlights as well as LED daytime running lights.
The interior is accentuated by red GTI elements. The leather sports steering wheel, adapted from the Golf GTI, has contrasting red stitching, as do the gear lever and handbrake lever; the floor mats also feature borders with red beading. The seats are upholstered in Alcantara with leatherette inserts. The driver and front passenger have heated sports seats. Features such as the instrument cluster with GTI design, black headliner and aluminium-look pedal caps complete the interior ambience. Also standard are features such as: Hill Hold assist, XDS+ Transverse Electronic Differential Lock, Driver Alert System, Cruise Control and Automatic Post-Collision Braking System.
Updated Infotainment
The Polo GTI’s radio system has been redesigned to bring it up to date and make it more user friendly. The colour touchscreen offers functions such as Bluetooth connectivity and a proximity sensor (other menu details are shown when hand approaches the screen). The system also has CD-player, USB, MP-3 functionality, auxiliary and SD-card input for external audio source and 6-loudspeakers.
MirrorLink is offered as an option and makes it possible to display and control the contents and functions shown on compatible Android smart phone on the touchscreen of the infotainment system. To avoid distracting the driver, only specially configured apps are accessible while driving. Volkswagen offers apps which can access vehicle data such as engine speed, car speed and the fuel tank level. Apps may also be used that are not directly related to vehicle operation, such as internet radio and news services, provided that they support MirrorLink.
Adaptive Chassis
Volkswagen is offering electronically adjustable dampers in the Polo GTI. These form the core technology basis of the new, optional ‘Sport Select’ suspension, which for the GTI is always available in conjunction with the optional ‘Sport Performance Kit’ (sportier tuning covering a wide range of parameters, all at the push of a button). This can be adapted for use on the racetrack.
New Engine
The new Polo GTI is equipped with a 1.8-Litre turbocharged direct injection petrol engine that develops 141 kW of power. The 1.8 TSI engine achieves this power at between 4 300 and 6 200 rpm with 6-speed manual transmission and from 5 400 to 6 200 rpm with the 7-speed DSG transmission. These variations are due to technical differences in the design of the transmissions.
The same applies to the torque values: the DSG delivers a maximum torque of 250 Nm between 1 250 and 5 300 rpm whereas the figures for the manual gearbox version are 320 Nm between 1 450 and 4 200 rpm. However, the differences in torque have no effect on the vehicle’s performance figures.
Optional features
These are the optional features that are offered with the new Polo GTI: LED headlights with LED daytime running lights, Panoramic sunroof, Park Distance Control (front and rear), Climatronic air-conditioner and Rear Assist Camera.
VW Polo GTI Pricing
1.8 TSI 141 kW GTI DSG R326 400
The new Polo GTI comes standard with a 3 year/45 000km Service Plan, 3 year/120 000km warranty and a 12 year anti-corrosion warranty. Service interval is 15 000km.
Daihatsu Pulls Out of South Africa
Small-car specialist Daihatsu has achieved great success in South Africa with its popular range of Terios compact SUVs and Gran Max pick-ups. There exists a car park of nearly 30 000 Daihatsu vehicles in this country and the brand has built an outstanding reputation for reliability and quality. It may therefore come as quite a surprise to find out that the brand has made the decision to stop importing new vehicles to South Africa as of this month.
Daihatsu Leaves SA
This news has obviously left us and some owners concerned. What does this mean in terms of parts, back-up and resale values? We spoke to Pedro Pereira of Imperial about these issues:
Why is Daihatsu withdrawing from the SA market?
Daihatsu Japan has taken a strategy to pull out of Western markets and concentrate in the East where they do very well. Daihatsu has pulled out of Australia, New Zealand and Europe a few years ago but kept the South African market for a bit longer because of how well it has always done here.
What does this mean for the Daihatsu owner in SA regarding parts back-up, warranty, servicing, resale values etc?
The Daihatsu customers will continue to have the full back-up from Imperial Daihatsu. We have signed agreements to continue to supply parts, honour warranties and give after-sales service. Daihatsu resale values remain high as it is still a very popular car in the used car market.
You mentioned the (8-year) service contract with Daihatsu Japan what happens after that?
We will continue to source parts for our customers and provide the after sales back up and service facilities.
Could Daihatsu vehicles become available again under the Toyota badge, as elsewhere in the world? For example, the Terios is badged the Toyota Rush in some markets
From what we have investigated, this will not be happening in South Africa but we do not know exactly what Daihatsu Japan decides to do in the future.
