The next model from Opel has hit our shores and I was on hand to experience the all-new Opel Mokka in the the Eastern Cape.
The Opel Mokka is the third model from the German brand after the Adam and Corsa were launched not so long ago. The Adam in particular is selling really well and Opel is faced with a stock shortage – not the worst problem to have! Opel’s Mokka takes on the sub-compact SUV segment, which is hotly contested in South Africa. Think of products like the Nissan Juke, Nissan Qashqai and Hyundai iX35. Initially, I thought this would be a rival to the Renault Duster and Ford EcoSport, but in reality it feels and is priced like a more premium product.
Speaking of pricing, it comes in at a starting price of R288 5o0, which will get you the 1.4T Enjoy manual gearbox. The top of the range is the 1.4T Cosmo with an automatic transmission. On launch, we sampled both gearboxes. The Cosmo is the higher spec of the two and comes with a seriously generous helping of standard specification. When last did you hear of a heated steering wheel and a 230V power socket on a car costing under R350k? If you’re after a detailed report on specifications and pricing, click here.
Opel Mokka: First Drive
The Opel Mokka launch took us through the heart of the Eastern Cape. Conditions were a little challenging, due to unpredictable weather, animals on the road and deteriorating tarmac surfaces. The Mokka took it all on and holds the road well. Ride and handling is good, although some road noise is apparent when you’re at the national highway speed limit. I will admit the road surface wasn’t the best, so I’m prepared to give the Mokka some slack in this regard.
In terms of transmission and driving, the Opel Mokka is a pleasant drive. The six-speed manual has a positive action and the 1.4-litre turbo engine offers adequate performance to get around. It’s interesting to note that market trends have shown that all-wheel drive and diesel powerplants are not that crucial to our market, despite our fondness for the great outdoors so while the Opel Mokka may not be a dedicated offroad warrior, it has more than enough ability to drive on gravel and sandy roads.
Summary
Overall I was impressed with the little package that is the Opel Mokka. At launch there are four models in the range with two trim levels, two gearboxes to choose from, and all are powered by the same 1.4-litre turbo engine. Not only is it generously specced, it also offers good performance from a tried-and-tested engine. The Intellilink infotainment system is just superb and shows you don’t need to fork out huge amounts of money for a decent system. I would think the one you’d want is a manual Cosmo as the standard specification is simply too good to ignore.
2015 Opel Mokka Specs & Pricing Announced
The 2015 Opel Mokka arrives in South Africa this week and we have the specifications and pricing for you. The vehicle goes on sale at the end of March 2015.
Opel is really making waves, both locally and internationally with a flurry of new products. Late last year we saw the Opel Adam land on our shores and not so long ago, the all-new Opel Corsa was launched. Now it’s time for the 2015 Opel Mokka to shine. Its Opel’s first ever sub-compact SUV and it has already achieved mega sales in Europe with over 240 000 units finding homes.
The all-new Opel Mokka is an exciting addition to the Opel portfolio and follows ADAM and Corsa as a truly adaptable lifestyle option, comments Christopher Cradock, Opel Brand Manager at GMSA.
Simply, the 2015 Opel Mokka comes as a four-model range. There are two trim levels and two gearboxes available. The six-speed manual and six-speed automatic transmission are both powered by the tried-and-tested 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine with 103kW and 200Nm. At this stage, the 2015 Opel Mokka will only be front-wheel drive.
Performance and Engine
The 2015 Opel Mokka will be able to hit 100kph in just 9.8 seconds for the manual, while the automatic completes the same sprint in a fractionally slower 10.7. In terms of top speed, you’re looking at 196kph for the manual and 191kph for the automatic, while the fuel economy is rated at 6.0 and 6.6L/100km for the manual and automatic Enjoy models respectively. The Cosmo derivatives claim figures of 6.3 and 7.0L/100km for the manual and automatic models respectively.
Standard equipment
Despite its compact size, the spacious interior offers extremely high levels of standard specification, meaning it should prove quite popular with the gadget fanatic generation. Some of these features include start/stop technology, front and rear fog lights, the tyre pressure monitoring system, daytime running lights, cruise control with speed limiter, speed-sensitive power steering, a multi-function steering wheel, a six-speaker audio system with Bluetooth, aux and USB input, a drivers armrest, electronic climate control, a trip computer, electric and heated side mirrors, power windows with one-touch up and down all-round, 17-inch alloy wheels with a full-size steel spare and black cloth upholstery.
That’s all standard for the Enjoy models, while the Cosmo gains rain-sensing wipers, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, automatic headlights with Active High Beam Assist, front and rear parking sensors, electric folding mirrors, a sunglasses holder, IntelliLink, the reversing camera, heated front seats, interior ambient lighting, rear privacy glass, 18-inch alloys, JASMIN leather upholstery, a heated, leather-bound steering wheel, specialised ergonomic front seats, a rear arm rest and a 230V power socket. All models come with a five star Euro NCAP rating.
Its a big step for BMW as the X5 xDrive40e becomes the first plug-in hybrid vehicle BMW has ever produced for its main stream range. The i3 and i8 sub section has been the electric division of BMW but this ushers in a new landmark for the German brand. The X5 xDrive40e was shown in Frankfurt 2013 as an idea but is now set to go into production being built in the USA.
BMW X5 xDrive40e Details
BMW has chosen to combine electric power with its 2-Litre turbo petrol engine. The petrol engine puts out 180 kW and 350 Nm of torque whilst the electric power jumps in with 83 kW and 250 Nm. That makes for a total useable power output of 230 kW and 450 Nm. In pure electric mode the xDrive40e will run to a top speed 120kph and travel for around 30km before the battery is drained. When the two power units work together, top speed hits a limited 210kph and acceleration from 0-100kph takes just 6.8 seconds. BMW also claims the fuel consumption figure to be 3.4L/100km.
The xDrive40e has multiple modes to access different driving styles the plug-in hybrid can offer. Whether you want full power or full electric or everything on auto, you can access the modes via an eDrive button.
The batteries can be charged either by wall socket or by using BMWs i Wallbox. A standard wall socket will take around four hours to charge the batteries to full whilst the i Wallbox will do it in two hours and 45 minutes.
As the name suggests, the xDrive40e is all-wheel drive and the battery is stored underneath the boot flooring. The boot still manages to hold 500-litres worth of stuff and practicality isnt decreased either.
Honda CR-V Upgraded for 2015
The Honda CR-V has received an upgrade for the 2015 model year with a number of exterior, interior and equipment enhancements.
Graham Eagle, director of operations at Honda Motor Southern Africa said, “The midlife updates to the current CR-V have been designed to add further value and satisfaction to the ownership experience, while also reflecting the requirements of our many loyal customers.”
Honda CR-V Gets Bolder
In terms of exterior design, the 2015 Honda CR-V now benefits from an all-new grille with a black-mesh lower aperture, chrome detailing and a gloss-black horizontal spar. Slim and elongated HID headlights with revised wrap-around LED daytime running lights now complement the new grille. The integrated front bumper incorporates a lower front scuff plate and more prominent fog lights.
The rear end gets new tail light clusters as well a chrome strip below the rear windscreen. The rear apron also gains an aluminium-look scuff plate, matching the look with the front. Revisions to the front and rear bumpers give the CR-V a slightly wider and longer appearance.
Interior Changes
A revised dashboard now features a new 7-inch touchscreen display that provides access to the infotainment system for all models except the entry-level Comfort. Bluetooth connectivity however remains standard across the entire range. The dashboard also features a lower chrome accent that runs through the width of the fascia. A sliding armrest between the front seats can be moved forwards and backwards by 60 mm for added convenience.
Chassis and Suspension Changes
The 2015 CR-V now comes with reworked front suspension with new bushes, dampers and revised suspension geometry which Honda says has improved the overall ride and handling of the vehicle. The front and rear tracks have increased by 15 mm and the steering ratio has increased by 8% to improve response and maneuverability. NVH has been reduced by doubling the thickness of the door seals and upgrading the carpets as well as revising the sound absorption materials.
Buyers now also have the choice of two new colours including Copper Sunset Pearl and Brillaint Blue Metallic. Other colours include White Orchid Pearl, Crystal Black Pearl, Golden Brown Metallic, Carnelian Red Pearl, Alabaster Silver Metallic and Modern Steel Metallic.
2015 Honda CR-V Price in South Africa
Honda CR-V 2.0 Comfort FWD Manual R347 400
Honda CR-V 2.0 Comfort FWD Auto R362 400
Honda CR-V 2.0 Elegance FWD Manual R394 400
Honda CR-V 2.0 Elegance FWD Auto R409 400
Honda CR-V 2.4 Executive AWD Auto R508 400
Honda CR-V 2.4 Exclusive AWD Auto R544 400
The pricing includes a 3-year/100 000 km warranty, a 5-year/90 000 km service plan and 1-year AA roadside assistance package. Services on all models are at 15 000 km intervals.
Honda Jazz (2015) Review
The Honda Jazz has been a mainstay for buyers looking for trouble-free motoring. It’s the car you buy as the last car youll ever need to buy, its reliability and practicality has reached near legendary status. It has in recent times commanded a slightly premium price in comparison to the competition and the all-new 2015 model seems to have followed suit. We spent a week with the top of the range 1.5-Litre Dynamic to see if the hype lives on.
Whats New?
For starters the Honda Jazz rides on a newly-developed platform and the car is built at Honda’s Tapukara facility in India. The platform is said to be stiffer and that allows for improvements in the suspension to improve the ride and steering. The styling has been changed as well, modernising the front end while the back has had some strange plastic inserts added that make the Jazz look a bit fussy at the rear. Active and passive safety features have also been plugged into this new Jazz as even in the base model theres ABS, EBD and stability control.
Naturally Aspirated Engines
The Jazz hasnt got anything new to offer in the powertrain department as Honda has gone with the tried and tested i-VTEC naturally aspirated engines. Our top spec engine here has the 1.5-Litre i-VTEC motor that has 88 kW and 145 Nm of torque. In typical Honda fashion the engine is more than happy to rev all the way to the redline and feels at its best when pushed. Unfortunately it lacks the low down torque to give you confidence to overtake comfortably that the European competitors have installed in their vehicles. Due to the rev happy nature of the Jazzs engine fuel economy took a bit of a hit as we managed 8.1L/100km over our weeks test. Claimed fuel economy is 6L/100km, which is what most Jazz drivers are likely to get if they drive it carefully and use the five-speed manual to keep the revs down.
Space Race
The Honda Jazz puts all other hatchbacks weve seen to shame when it comes to interior space. The boot for starters offers 363-litres, thats some 60-litres bigger than the VW Polo. The rear seats magically fold flat and opens the loading space to 1 881-litres. The rear legroom is easily the best in class, even behind a six-foot driver theres loads of room in the rear. Ive seen D-segment sedans with less room in the rear than this new Jazz. (I managed to transport a new coffee table with ease. So spacious! – Editor)
The new infotainment system on the top-spec Jazz makes use of a large seven-inch touch screen system that is designed to work like a tablet. Its quite intuitive and easy to use but the touch system can be a bit slow to react. Theres two USB slots and an HDMI slot for those that really want to take all their connectivity on the road. We hooked up a laptop and the screen was instantly displayed on the cars screen as well as sound. The whole system is built around connecting your smart device and then using your compatible apps within the system.
Strangely for a Honda product, some of the finishings dont seem to be well put together and some of the materials are less than what weve come to expect from the Japanese brand. The plastics around the boot were loosely fitted and the wooden floorboard used for the boot is particularly flimsy. This may be the Indian building getting off the ground and we hope they improve these mishaps in the future.
Ride and Drive
The good news is that the Honda Jazz remains a quality product on the road. Its comfortable in town over our typically bumpy roads and sits flat in the bends. The 16-inch wheels with relatively high profile tyres help in keeping ride comfort good while grip is still is not relinquished easily. Most Jazz drivers arent going to be worried about whether the steering is heavy or light but its still a good thing Honda has weighted it well in order to provide driving confidence out on the open road.
Honda Jazz – Verdict
The new Honda Jazz still feels like a bulletproof product, the engine is rev hungry and with Hondas famed reliability will be happy to rev on to eternity. Interior space is best in class and if thats one of your top requirements then dont bother looking elsewhere. A few build quality issues seem to have snuck into the Jazz as build production has moved to India, but nothing too worrying. The Jazz still targets the top end of the hatch pricing as this 1.5 Dynamic model costs R249 900. That puts it above competitors like the top spec VW Polo Highline (R241 500) and the new Opel Corsa (R236 300) as well, competitors that offer similar spec and power credentials.
Second Opinion
With that clever rear seating arrangement and flexibility, the Honda Jazz remains the most practical small car you can buy and this particular model is also loaded with infotainment features. The 1.5-litre Dynamic reviewed here is, however, quite a pricey choice. Then again, given its predecessors reputation for bulletproof reliability the higher price is probably justifiable, especially since it hasn’t changed too much on the mechanical front. – Hannes Oosthuizen
Honda Jazz Price in South Africa
The Honda Jazz range starts with the 1.2-Litre Trend model that comes in at R179 900 whilst our 1.5 Dynamic costs R249 900. The Honda Jazz is also offered in automatic versions on both engines.
We Like: Amazing interior space, fun engine, good to drive
Toyota South Africa has added yet another version of the iconic and best-selling Hilux to the market. To celebrate the company's performance in the hardcore Dakar Rally, the special edition 2015 Toyota Hilux Dakar has numerous accessories fitted to make it stand out. Toyota did very well in the 2015 Dakar Rally – a T1 Petrol class win and second place overall is impressive. The last special edition Hilux to be unveiled was the Legend 45 and it is this model on which the 2015 Toyota Hilux Dakar is based. Interestingly, 50% of Hilux Legend 45 production will be focused on Dakar models for a three month period. Glenn Crompton, Vice President of Marketing had this to say about the new model. “Inspired by the extreme performance of the world’s most grueling motorsport event where toughness is not just a pay-off line, it’s a prerequisite. People buy Hilux as a workhorse, a family vehicle, or as a mixture of both, which means they are attracted by its renowned ruggedness as well as its car-like comfort. Hilux Dakar delivers the best of both worlds.”
2015 Toyota Hilux Dakar Features
Two-tone stainless-steel, tubular front nudge bar finished in polished stainless steel with a matt black cross bar and official “Dakar” decal in white.
Two-tone stainless-steel, tubular load bay styling bar with matt black cross plate and official “Dakar” decal in white. (The styling bar is optional on Legend 45 models.)
Standard Tonneau cover in black (optional on Legend 45).
Two-tone stainless-steel, tubular rear step bumper with matt black step.
17-inch alloy wheels in dark grey finish – differentiated from the lighter hued ‘anthracite’ of the Legend 45.
Exterior mirror cladding and door handles in glossy black finish.
Two-tone front grille with chrome border and glossy black horizontal slats.
B-pillar – black-out finish as opposed to body colour.
Unique official Dakar decaling on the front nudge bar, front doors, styling bar and rear tailgate.
Available exclusively in Glacier White or Chromium Silver.
Full black interior leather with red stitching (the Legend 45 boasts black leather with silver accents).
Ford Transit and Tourneo Connect launched in South Africa
Fords new model onslaught is well underway with a total of 10 new models expected this year alone, which is exciting news for new car buyers in South Africa. Ford has already introduced the Fusion sedan to market and has now expanded offerings in the LCV and MPV segments with the new Transit Connect panel van and the Tourneo Connect MPV.
The vehicle launch took place in Johannesburg this week and I was there to drive the newcomers.
Ford Transit Connect Takes Care Of Business
The Transit Connect is the third model to join the Transit range of commercial vehicles and was acknowledged as the 2014 Van Of The Year. Bragging rights aside, the Transit Connect in Long Wheelbase (LWB) form is built to serve the needs of large and small businesses with a total load capacity of 3 222 litres, payload capacity of 1 004 kg and a 1 200kg tow rating for a braked trailer.
Loading any item is made easier with two side-hinged rear doors that open 180-degrees as well as a side sliding door which, offers additional access to the loading area. Six tie-down points on the load floor allow for the securing of items.
The Transit Connect is available in Ambiente trim and the drivers cabin comes fitted with a two-speaker Bluetooth audio system with USB and Aux connectors. Steering is power assisted and the steering wheel is rake and reach adjustable with mounted controls. The interior is well constructed and dominated by hard-wearing plastics. Theres also ample storage space in the doors and overhead tray, and electric windows are standard.
Safety Features
The Transit Connect offers Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-Force Distribution (EBD) and Electronic Brake Assist (EBA). Additional safety features include Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Traction Control, Hill Launch Assist, Load Adaptive Control, Roll-Over Mitigation and Trailer Sway Control. A driver airbag is fitted as standard, but a passenger airbag can be fitted as an option for R1 830.
For an additional R8 060, you can opt for the Ambiente Option Pack which includes front and rear parking sensors with a rear-view camera, fog lights with adaptive corner lighting, a tyre inflation monitor and LED lighting in the load compartment. This option pack should be considered if you want to avoid bumping into unexpected objects, as rear visibility is hampered by the steel bulkhead directly behind you.
How does the Transit Connect Drive?
Under the hood, the Transit Connect is fitted with the tried and tested 1.6-litre TDCi engine that offers up 85 kW and 285 Nm. A 6-speed manual transmission puts those figures onto the tarmac via the 16-inch front wheels.
This is a solid engine that has enough grunt to serve the purpose of the vehicle. The launch route offered a mix of urban and highway driving and the Transit Connect felt confident and composed throughout, with gear shifts being smooth and clean. However, it will be interesting to see how it performs with a full load. Ford claims 4.9L/100km on the combined cycle and I managed to achieve 6.2L/100km during my short stint behind the wheel.
Overall, the Transit Connect seems to be a good offering when compared to its main rival, the Volkswagen Caddy. Time will tell how well the Transit Connect is received in South Africa.
Ford Transit Connect Price in South Africa
Ford Transit Connect 1.6 TDCi Ambiente LWB R272 900
The price includes a 4-year / 120 000 km warranty, 4-year / 60 000km Service Plan, 3-year / unlimited km Roadside Assistance and 5-year / unlimited km Corrosion Warranty. Service intervals are set at 15 000km.
Ford Tourneo Connect for Active Lifestyles
The new Tourneo Connect MPV comes to market in both Short Wheelbase (SWB) and Long Wheelbase (LWB) formats with a choice of three trim levels including Ambiente, Trend and Titanium.
Tourneo Features
The SWB five-seater Tourneo Connect in Ambiente trim benefits from electric power-assisted steering, a tyre pressure monitoring system, air conditioning, auto stop/start and an Active Grille Shutter. A four-speaker Bluetooth audio system with USB and Aux inputs are included along with mounted controls on the steering wheel.
Safety features include ABS with EBD and EBA. Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) is standard as well as Traction Control, Torque vectoring Control, Hill Launch Assist, Load Adaptive Control, Trailer Sway Control and Roll-Over Mitigation. Dual airbags are fitted with additional side and curtain airbags. Wheels are 16-inch in size and rear parking sensors and a roof rack with cross bars can be had as an option.
The mid-spec Trend variant further includes cruise control with a speed limiter, rear electric windows, front fog lights and Ford SYNC with Bluetooth Voice Control via a 3.5-inch multi-function display. Front parking sensors and adaptive cornering fog lamps are available as an option, as are 16-inch alloy wheels.
How Does the Tourneo Connect Drive?
Both Ambiente and Trend models are powered by Fords 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine offering 74 kW and 170 Nm of torque delivered via a 6-speed manual transmission. Ride and handling is good across the range but performance, although perky, doesnt offer much excitement. Still, this engine offers more than enough grunt to scoot the family along in comfort. Ford claims 5.6-litres on the combined cycle and I achieved 6.3-litres / 100km on the launch route.
The Long Wheelbase (LWB) Grand Tourneo Connect in Titanium trim can be had with either a 1.6 TDCi engine (85 kW / 285 Nm) with a 6-speed manual transmission or with a 1.6-litre EcoBoost engine (110 kW / 240 Nm) mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission.
I was a bit disappointed with the automatic transmission which felt sluggish, undermining the capabilities of an otherwise excellent engine. The 1.6 TDCi manual would be my pick of the lot, as it felt far more responsive and eager to obey throttle inputs and its more economical. However, if you enjoy no-fuss cruising, then the automatic still has lots to offer. Fuel consumption for the automatic version is claimed to be 8.0-litres / 100km and I achieved around 10.3-litres / 100km. Alternatively, the 1.6 Duratorq TDCi claims 4.9-litres / 100km where 6.3-litres / 100km came up on the launch route.
The Titanium model adds Active City Stop, adaptive cornering fog lamps, automatic headlights and rain sensing windscreen wipers. A large panoramic roof, dual electronic climate control, integrated roof rails and 16-inch alloy wheels are also offered for the Titanium trim level. The optional Titanium Pack offers front parking distance sensors and a rear-view camera for an additional R4 610. For an extra R1 820 you can also have two additional seats added in the rear.
Perhaps the biggest selling point for the Tourneo Connect is its versatility. With its dual sliding doors, spacious second row of seating and large rear space, the Tourneo Connect is a superb lifestyle offering. Furthermore, the seats can be folded and tumbled in various combinations, or taken out altogether depending on your requirements. The Ford Tourneo Connect should sell relatively well in South Africa considering similar options available in the market.
Ford Tourneo Connect Price in South Africa
Ford Tourneo Connect 1.0 EcoBoost Ambiente SWB R269 000
Ford Tourneo Connect 1.0 EcoBoost Trend SWB R279 900
Grand Tourneo Connect 1.6 TDCi Titanium LWB R367 900
The price includes a 4-year / 120 000 km warranty, 3-year / 60 000km Service Plan, 3-year / unlimited km Roadside Assistance and 5-year / unlimited km Corrosion Warranty. Service intervals are set at 20 000km.
Rolls Royce Ghost Series II Now in SA
It’s regarded as the most luxurious brand in the world and there’s no doubt that it represents the ultimate in a quality automobile experience. The latest model of Rolls-Royce has just been launched to the SA media and we were there.
The Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II is the latest vehicle to be launched and we got a glimpse of its features at the only Rolls-Royce dealership in South Africa. This dealership is in the heart of Sandton and forms part of Daytona, which is the agent for Aston Martin and McLaren vehicles in South Africa.
What’s New for Ghost Series II?
The new model gains some subtle changes on the outside, but under the skin is where a whole host of industry-leading technology makes an appearance.
In the quest to produce vehicles that embody supreme quality, effortless performance and the cutting-edge of technology, the engineers at Goodwood have delivered the stunning masterpiece that were unveiling here, a contemporary vehicle created for the most successful individuals in our world today the Ghost Series II, said Pedro Carneiro, Brand Manager, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Sandton.
Let’s start at the front, where LED headlights surrounded by attractive daytime running lights give the car a lot more aggression at the front. There’s also a slight redesign on the bonnet which starts from the famous Spirit of Ecstacy and resembles the wake of a boat or jet. While these are just style upgrades, the re-shaped bumpers and the addition of chrome inserts to the intakes allows more cold air to reach the front brakes. Essential, considering the power and sheer weight of the Ghost Series II.
The interior gains a massive injection of technology and the cabin is a magnificent place to be. Not only is it supremely luxurious, but it represents the latest tech on offer. With a Satellite Aided Transmission (seen in the Wraith) on-board WiFi, upgrades to the navigation and interface, the Ghost Series II becomes the most connected office on wheels. If you’re a fan of quality audio, the Ghost Series II can be fitted with Bespoke Audio, which is said to to be the “most exhaustively engineered and finest audio system in automotive history.”
Powering the Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II is a 6.6-litre twin-turbocharged V12 pushing out 419kW and 780Nm. Due to its weight and size, performance is brisk, but effortless. Expect 0-100kph in five seconds dead and the car will go onto a limited top speed of 250kph. It must surely offer one of the smoothest driving experiences thanks to the 8-speed ZF gearbox.
Ghost Series II Price in SA
The Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II is now available from Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Sandton. Pricing for such a premium model is difficult and the vast customisation options doesn’t make it any easier. However I’d estimate you could bag yourself a Ghost Series II for about R7-million.-Editor
Volkswagen Sport Coupe GTE Concept Shows Bigger CC
Volkswagen has developed a Sport Coupe Concept GTE that it says will be a future vehicle to sit above the CC and below the Phaeton. The concept also showcases the new front end styling that VW will adopt for new models. The concept could see VW step in to compete with the likes of the Merc CLS and Audi A7, albeit on a much leaner price tag.
What is a Sport Coupe GTE?
Dr Heinz-Jakob Neusser, Volkswagen Brand Board Member for Development, explained the new Coupé Concept GTE for the Volkswagen brand: “This concept car is a breathtakingly dynamic coupé, destined to set standards in this class. Thanks to the design in the style of an exclusive sports car combined with the added functionality of a large boot lid, we see an impressive alternative to the classic saloons of the B and C segments in this four-seater.”
The new front grille is a big focal point on the concept and will no doubt be a talking point on many VWs to come if it is transplanted exactly as is to a model like the Golf. The low roofline and sloping rear makes the bonnet look longer and give the Sport Coupe Concept GTE a GT cruiser presence. Those wheels are big 21-inch five-spoke turbines.
Thanks to a V6 TSI engine, the 279 kW GTE plug-in hybrid enables zero-emission driving at certain times thanks to the two electric motors and an externally chargeable battery. VW estimates the top speed at 250kph and expects it has an average combined fuel consumption of 2.0L/100km. It will run in pure electric mode 50km and when forced to do an outright sprint to 100kph, manage it in 5-seconds flat.
Based on the MQB platform (Golf, A3, Tiguan, TT etc.) and even with coupe aspirations, the Sport Coupe offers good front and rear headroom. The large boot lid gives access to a 480-litre boot.
2015 Nissan GT-R Specs and Pricing Announced (Video)
Pricing for the 2015 Nissan GT-R supercar have been announced, and the model continues to be one of the most formidable performance cars on the planet.
What’s New for 2015?
There are a number of exterior, interior and handling upgrades for the 2015 model. With comfort taking priority, these upgrades to the 2015 Nissan GT-R include a mature suspension setup, reduced noise, vibration, harshness (NVH) as well as uprated braking ability powered by Brembo. Noise from these performance brakes have also been reduced.
On the visual front, there’s a new multi-spoke alloy wheel design for the GT-R Premium Edition. What is most important to note is that the price increase on 2015 Nissan GT-R derivatives has been capped at a mere 1%, comments Konstantin von Vieregge, General Manager Product Planning at Nissan South Africa. This means a minimal increase of just R15 000 to all models, offering the 2015 modifications at exceptional value.
The engine is still the 3.8-litre turbocharged V6 with 397kW ad 628Nm. O-100kph is dispatched in 2.9 seconds and the 2015 Nissan GT-R will go onto a top speed of 315kph. Power goes to all four wheels through a six-speed dual-clutch auto box. The car also features a high-performance mechanical limited-slip differential for better cornering.
2015 Nissan GT-R Price in South Africa
Pricing includes VAT
GT-R Premium Edition R 1 490 000
GT-R Premium Edition (red interior) R 1 541 000
GT-R Black Edition R 1 542 000
