Volkswagen likes to produce a concept of what an extremely mad GTI would look like. As part of the Vision Gran Turismo concept idea, VW has produced a GTI Supersport Vision GT that will make its way to the Gran Turismo Playstation game eventually.
Worthersee Special
The bonkers GTI may also be shown in physical form at the Worthersee show in Austria in June 2015. In 2014 VW revealed the GTI Roadster concept that turned the GTI into a coupe and a low slung sportscar. This GTI Supersport is a follow up to that, and details have now been revealed.
The car is fitted with a brutal VR6 TSI engine that offers 370 kW and 665 Nm of torque mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. Those figures will keep most people glued to the game. A 0-100kph sprint time of 3.6 seconds and a top speed in excess of 300kph is nothing to scoff at either. The car also features 4MOTION all-wheel drive to keep you on track for longer.
In terms of design, the GTI Supersport Vision GT rides low on an aerodynamically optimised body. The front end features vertical light modules, large air intakes, roof edge spoiler and diffuser. The car can be raced in ‘Reflex Silver’, ‘Gran Turismo Red’, ‘Lapiz Blue’ or ‘Oryx White’.
Volkswagen GTI Supersport Vision GT Video
Merc Adds Five New Models to C-Class
A year on from the international launch of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Merc is expanding the range of the premium sedan. Both the sedan and estate will benefit from the extended model range.
Entry Level C-Class
The new entry model will be called the C160 and is actually a 1.6-Litre unit. It puts out 95 kW and 210 Nm. Its not horribly slow either as Merc claims it will accelerate from 0-100kph in 9.6 seconds with a six-speed manual gearbox. The C160 will also use just 5.2L/100km.
The C200 and C220d models will be made available with 4Matic Mercs four-wheel drive system. No engine changes are made to these models though.
The four-cylinder engines will have a new most powerful model added to the range with the C300. The 2-Litre turbo has had the wick turned up to 180 kW and it can get to 100kph in 5.9 seconds. Fuel consumption comes in at 6.3L/100km.
C450 AMG
For those who have been wondering if Mercedes was ever going to produce a high powered C-Class, the wait is over. Thanks to a petrol V6, the C450 AMG can churn out 270 kW and 520 Nm. To put that power down on the ground Merc has decided it will be fitted with 4Matic. Zero to 100kph flashes up in 4.9 seconds and fuel consumption is claimed at 7.6L/100km.
The new C-Class models can be fitted if required with new options such as a head-up display and a touchpad. Mercedes-Benz has also very recently extended the range of equipment and appointment options, which now include a heated steering wheel and a revised choice of trims.
Lets hope that some of these new models make their way to South Africa, especially the C450.
Mercedes-Benz B-Class B250 (2015) Review
The MPV segment seems to have been reignited by a bunch of big name German brands showing interest in a market we thought dead. Mercedes-Benz and its B-Class has been a stalwart in the MPV segment, but has now been joined by perennial rival BMW and its Active Tourer, and Volkswagen who recently launched the SV in South Africa. This facelifted B-Class is said to have an improved cabin, a better range of engines and obviously a refreshed design. We spent a week with the top of the range B250 AMG Line to see if Merc remain at the top of the segment.
Revived MPV Segment
As mentioned above the MPV segment has seen a resurgence and the Germans have come out swinging. The B-Class allows the driver to sit a little bit higher than a sedan, have a load of headroom that makes the car feel airy and large and then still be able to load loads of things in the back including children.
As far as space goes, the B-Class can hold 486-Litres worth of things in the back but can be increased slightly by sliding the rear seats forward at the expense of rear legroom. The rear seats fold flat to evolve the rear loading space into cavernous space for surfboards or mountain bikes. Mostly though you get great sedan-like driving qualities with the practicality of an SUV at the back with somewhere in the middles driving position.
250 AMG Necessary?
In a short answer, probably no. The 2-Litre turbo motor is great in the C-Class where it can waft along and still remain subtly quick. In the B-Class though, the 155 kW and 220 Nm tends to make the drive a bit frantic. Paired with the seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox the B-Class can be quite slow to react to inputs. Theres a delay from standstill once you press the throttle that can be frustrating and often leads you to mash the throttle down further than you want. Once moving though it goes really well with more than enough power to get excited about as its 6.8 second 0-100kph sprint states.
Interior
I like what Mercedes-Benz has done with its A and B-Class interiors as they feel modern yet luxurious. The three vents that sit at the top of the dashboard have become a symbol of Merc’s new models and keenness to capture a younger market. For this facelifted model the multimedia screen measures eight-inches and can be fitted with Garmin navigation built in as an optional extra. The screen has also done away with touch sensitivity and is now controlled via the rotary knob on the centre console. Being the top spec model and AMG line you get some suave leather seats and thanks to the dual-clutch box, paddle shifters behind the steering wheel.
The B-Class continues to introduce new safety features from its more expensive models and as standard theres: ABS, EBD, brake assist, traction and stability control and attention assist (drowsiness detector). Collision prevention assist has also been added and will partially brake the B-Class if it detects you are about to have a rear-end collision.
Ride and Handling
As you can see from the pictures above, the B-Class has some quite attractive options added thanks to the AMG Line fitted to the B250. The front spoiler is added, as are the side ones with chrome strips on them. The main attraction at the rear is the dual tailpipes. The B250 is also lowered slightly and given sports direct steering that increases the steering speed depending of the angle of the wheel. The idea behind it is a more responsive and dynamic feel with this steering system. The 18-inch wheels affect the ride comfort making rippled roads unpleasant and areas of roadworks a harrowing experience. They do look good though, but I would stick with 17s and a bit more tyre sidewall for added road comfort.
Once out of the city the B-Class flexes its muscles in B250 guise, its quick and with the lowered suspension quite fun to hustle around corners. It loads up nicely with very little roll and the steering is pin-point accurate. Im not sure your passengers will enjoy it, but maybe once youve dropped them off you can negotiate a mountain pass or windy road on the way home. Who knew that an MPV had hot-hatchback tendencies?
Verdict
The B-Class is a very accomplished premium MPV thanks to its inoffensive looks, spaciousness and comes loaded with good safety systems. In B250 guise though it doesnt make as much sense, as I would certainly go for a B200 or B220 diesel. You’re sacrificing the speed, but improving the ride comfort substantially. There are plenty of options to choose from so you can tailor make your B-Class to your needs. As far as its competitors go, the BMW Active Tourer focuses more on performance dynamics in all models while the VW Golf SV aims more at the budget conscious, practical buyer not concerned with the premium badge a Merc offers.
Opening the account of the B-Class is the B200 that costs R389 736. This is the B250 AMG Line model which we had on test and that starts at R476 160 before options.
Second Opinion
The Mercedes-Benz B250 blends performance and practicality in one smart looking package. Not only is that engine potent and smooth, the car’s practicality and interior space makes it a winner for families. If only the ride wasn’t so firm and crashy over uneven tar… My advice is to spec one without the overly sporty low-profile AMG wheels.-David Taylor
We Like: Practicality, Space, handling and looks
We dont Like: Dual clutch can be slow to react and firm ride on 18-inch wheels
Also consider: BMW Active Tourer, VW Golf SV, Citroen C4 Picasso
March 2015 was yet another busy month with a plethora of new vehicles introduced to market in South Africa. Opel came in with a bang with the new Mokka sub-compact SUV which is a good all-round offering destined for success. Peugeot came to the party with the new 308 which, has improved significantly over the previous model and is well worth a look in the C-segment. BMW brought in the heavies with the launch of the X5 M and X6 M, as well as introducing the new 2-Series convertible. Ford also had a busy month, launching the new Transit Connect panel van, Tourneo Connect MPV and the new Ford Focus. For those with a taste for opulence, Rolls-Royce introduced the Ghost Series II, but you may want to have a chat with your bank manager before visiting the dealership.
In terms of sales, Toyota dominated the market with the Hilux being a best-seller yet again, but the Ford Ranger was hot on its tyres, claiming second place on the best-selling vehicles list. Volkswagen also had a solid month with the Polo Vivo and Polo selling particularly well. Last but not least, you, our prized readers, thought that the Rolls-Royce Phantom was the best luxury car on the planet while the BMW X6 M took the honors of being your favorite car of the month. Here’s a highlight summary of what went down in March 2015.
March 2015 Highlights in Numbers – Infographic
Toyota RAV 4 Goes Hybrid
A hybrid version of the popular compact SUV from Toyota has been announced. The Toyota Rav 4 Hybrid has been a popular model overseas, and this new model looks likely to continue that success.
Internationally there are two trim levels: XLE and Limited. Both are equipped with an Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel-Drive System. The hybrid (and non-hybrid Rav 4 models) will receive refreshed exterior styling which gives it a sleeker, more dynamic appearance. The front is dominated by an LED trifecta (Headlights, Daytime Running Lights and Hi-Lo Headlights) while a new rear bumper and lift gate with available LED taillights add a premium look.
Toyota RAV 4 Features
Customer feedback is vital when it comes to refreshed products and Toyota claims it listened to its fans when it came to the refreshed Toyota Rav 4 and added the following features:
Improved interior quality with more premium materials
Available 4.2-inch TFT multi-information display in a revised gauge cluster
Available 7-inch touch-sensitive display audio touch screen
Leather steering wheel (excluding LE)
Updated interior shifter and window/lock control bezel material
Revised cup holder design to accommodate tall mugs with handles
New sunglasses holder
Additional USB added to front and one 12V power outlet added to rear
New interior colors (Tan, Beige and on SE a Tan/Black combination)
Soft touch material on upper door panel and lower dash
Other useful features include front and rear parking sonar, available Smart Key, and a Homelink® garage door opener (standard on Limited grade). International models will have an available Scout cell phone based navigation system. All international RAV4 XLE, SE and Limited models will come standard with SiriusXM All-Access Radio with a 3-month complimentary trial. At this stage, I’m not sure what SA units will get.
The Toyota Rav 4 Hybrid and new Rav 4 models also boast numerous safety features:
Pre-Collision System
Forward Collision Warning
Lane Departure Alert
Automatic High Beams
Pedestrian Pre-Collision System
Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
Powering the Toyota Rav 4 hybrid is one of the smart Hybrid Synergy drive engines. In this case, it’s a 2.5-litre, petrol engine which is assisted by two electric motors. One of these electric motors powers the rear axle, giving it an electric all-wheel drive setup. You’ll see I mention international spec quite a bit. You see, it’s unlikely we’ll see the full Toyota Rav 4 hybrid in SA, but we’ll definitely see some of the tech integrated into our non-hybrid cars soon enough.
Volkswagen Golf SV (2015) First Drive
Volkswagen has expanded its local Golf lineup to include this new Golf SV or Sportvan as the Europeans know it. Think of it as a slightly bloated Golf, not a fat Golf, just one that can carry more and is a bit roomier on the inside.
What is a Golf SV
The new Golf SV is built on the MQB platform from VW that has been slightly extended by 83mm from the standard Golf. VW has then thrown the practicality stick at the inside meaning that the rear seats slide forwards and backwards, the boot can hold between 500 and 590-Litres depending on where the seats are and the rear seats will fold down just about flat. Apart from the platform though, the exterior of the SV is entirely different to a Golf.
Inside
Its roomy inside with similar dimensions to an MPV – theres loads of headroom and plenty of rear legroom. The rest is standard Golf trim, as youd expect from a car labelled Golf SV. VW has played with the spec of the cars, so be aware what youre in for before heading to a dealer. Standard specification on the entry level model is relatively good though as you get the 5-inch touchscreen, seven airbags, a full size spare wheel and air-conditioning.
Safety
The Golf SV doesnt skimp on safety though as standard fitment is post collision braking which, makes sure after youve had an accident you dont end up at the scene of a secondary collision. ABS, brake assist, traction control and stability control are also all standard features.
Engines
Volkswagen has picked two turbo petrol engines and a turbodiesel to begin the range of SVs hitting SA. Theres a 1.2-Litre turbo petrol with 81 kW and 175 Nm, this is only offered with a six-speed manual and claims to use 5.1L/100km. Next in line is a 1.4-Litre turbo petrol with 92 kW and 200 Nm that can be manual or DSG with the seven-speed DSG being the chosen box. This engine uses 5.4L/100km on the manual and 5.2L/100km on the DSG. The turbodiesel is the 2-Litre capable of 81 kW and 250 Nm of torque, whilst consuming 4.6L/100km.
We had the 1.4-Litre TSI available to drive at launch and it coped well around the route from PE through to Knysna. Some might want a bit more shove in the overtaking department but it does the job pretty well for an MPV. Strangely VW has opted not to bring in the 110 kW turbodiesel that would offer more oomph in the range but it did say that if the SV does prove to be a hit, it could bring in more variants.
Ride and Drive
It may be called a Sportvan in Europe but it rides very comfortably and is extremely smooth on the road. Like most VWs it feels solid and very easy to control and provides you with good confidence of the cars capabilities. It doesnt try too hard to be sporty and leans more towards the comfortable ride end of the spectrum what you expect from an MPV.
Pricing
The entry model 1.2-Litre TSI model starts at R292 500, which offers a good entry point into the MPV segment. The range topping diesel model sits at R359 200 before options. The pricing keeps it below premium competitors like the BMW Active Tourer and Merc B-Class and just about in line with the Citroen C4 Picasso.
1.2 TSI with BlueMotion Technlogy Trendline (81 kW) 6-speed Manual
R292 500
1.4 TSI with BlueMotion Technlogy Comfortline (92 kW) 6-speed Manual
R325 200
1.4 TSI with BlueMotion Technlogy Comfortline (92 kW) 7-speed DSG
R340 700
2.0 TDI Comfortline (81 kW) 5-speed Manual
R343 700
2.0 TDI Comfortline (81 kW) 6-speed DSG
R359 200
Hyundai i20 1.2 Motion (2015) Review
While it is true that the Hyundai i20 has never been a headline-grabbing car, it has quietly carved itself a very sizeable niche in the South African market. In fact, it is one of the top selling B-segment hatchbacks, mostly due to its appealing combination of features, warranty and no-nonsense simplicity. But the game in this segment has moved on significantly in recent months, with new arrivals such as the revised VW Polo, new Opel Corsa, Mazda2 and Honda Jazz vying for attention. Where does the new Hyundai fit in the pecking order?
Spacious and practical
Designed in Germany and boasting much sharper, crisper lines, the new i20 is a rather more up to date take on the compact five-door hatchback genre than its curvy, bland predecessor. It even boasts a few stand-out design features, including a blacked-out C-pillar and rather stylish rear light detailing. This base model can be easily identified by its 14-inch steel wheels (with plastic covers).
More important in this segment than flashy design, however, is practicality. The new i20 is slightly longer and wider than its predecessor and affords its occupants more space all-round, while the boot is commendably large at 294 litres and also well shaped to accommodate a variety of objects. The rear seats can be split and folded for the transportation of even larger items. A full-size spare wheel is located underneath the boot floor.
Despite its entry level positioning, the interior of the i20 Motion manages not to feel low-rent. In fact, the light inserts in the upholstery add a dash of cheerfulness to the otherwise dark cabin. Build quality is predictably very good, with excellent fit and finish evident throughout the interior.
Well-balanced standard specification
A secret to the Hyundai i20s success has always been its carefully considered specification. The remote audio controls-equipped steering wheel is both rake and reach adjustable and the drivers seat can also be lifted or lowered as per the drivers requirements. A comfortable driving position is therefore easy to find.
For the money, you get air-conditioning, a radio/CD system with aux/USB support, Bluetooth, a trip computer and electric front windows. The safety package consists of dual front airbags and ABS with EBD. Oversights? Well, parents may be dismayed to find that there are no Isofix child seat anchors at the rear. And for some the manual rear windows will be an irritation.
Improved refinement
Unlike many other newcomers in the segment of the market, Hyundai has not followed in the engine downsizing/turbocharging trend that has seen the likes of the new Corsa, Fiesta and Polo offering such strong performance without too much of a fuel economy penalty. Of course, the advantage of keeping it simple is the promise of greater reliability there is no turbocharger to go wrong in the long run.
Still, the 1.2-litre engine under i20s bonnet is hardly big, so it has its work cut out it delivers 61 kW and a relatively meagre 115 Nm of torque. Even so, the i20 feels rather perky around town, with good responsiveness provided you stir the slick five-speed gearbox. Most testers felt that the power was perfectly sufficient for town use, with the lack of urge only really becoming prevalent at higher (overtaking) speeds close to the national speed limit.
Hyundai claims a consumption figure of 5.9 L/100 km, but youre more likely to achieve a figure of closer to 7 L/100 km.
One of the criticisms that could be leveled at the previous i20 (and there werent many), was relatively poor NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) control and a somewhat unrefined ride quality. These concerns have certainly been addressed with the newcomer it boasts a body that is 64 % more torsionally rigid than before. The cabin is now a much more isolated place, and the i20 now suppresses road imperfections with greater composure. Coupled with very light steering, the little Hyundai is therefore an impressively comfortable city runner that can now more confidently head out of town, too.
Conclusion and Summary
By offering a strong combination of standard features, space and a good warranty, the entry level version of the new Hyundai i20 is well-positioned for success at the bottom of the B-segment hatchback market. It may offer neither the panache of a Kia Rio or Renault Clio, nor the performance of a Toyota Yaris or the new Opel Corsa, but you do get the promise of comfortable, no-surprises motoring for years.
Hyundai i20 Price in South Africa
The Hyundai i20 1.2 Motion costs R184 900 and comes with a five-year/150 000 km warranty and two-year/30 000 km service plan.
Second Opinion
The new Hyundai i20 may not look as pleasant as the outgoing model, but that’s irrelevant as what’s under the skin is far more important. Build quality and refinement are in abundance, and you’d be hard-pressed to fault this little Korean as it comes with plenty of tech and safety features. However, the 1.2 may not be enough grunt for those living at Gauteng altitudes however.
We Like: Practicality, Comfort, Quality, Warranty
We dont Like: Overtaking power
Also consider: Opel Corsa, Kia Rio, Toyota Yaris, Volkswagen Polo, Ford Fiesta
Premium sedans have long been the forte of the German brands with the likes of Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz being the go-to brands if you want style, luxury and presence. Those are the key facets a premium sedan buyer is looking for as well as supreme ride quality, decent performance and an interior full of the latest tech.
There are, however, some pretty good options if you dont want to go down the German route. The Japanese have improved offerings from the likes of Lexus and Infiniti, while there are new entrants from Korea, England and America that might be of interest.
We must note that an honourable mention goes to the Audi A4 which, would have made the list if there wasn’t a replacement due imminently. Same goes for the Jaguar XF that had its replacement revealed earlier in 2015.
The current C-Class is at the top of its game. Newly launched in 2014, the C-Class oozes quality, refinement and style. Its also loaded with the best technology on the market in terms of safety and crash mitigation. The ride is luxurious and comfortable whilst that Merc badge on the nose provides everlasting presence. From R436 700.
The BMW 3-Series is probably still the drivers choice when it comes to premium sedans as its handling and driving dynamics set it apart from the competition. It may be starting to look a little dated inside, but it still feels like a quality arrangement of materials and design. Theres also a wide range of engines to choose from, as well as options to tailor your 3-Series. From R396 436.
The Lexus IS is a most improved product – the latest model is bigger, better styled and with the V6 engine, a sporty alternative. Lexus always loads its cars with everything they can think of, so you end up with a car that offers great value when you compare like for like with the competition. It needs a rethink of the infotainment system, but other than that the IS is a good option. From R507 400.
Infiniti is relatively new to SA and still trying to make its mark on the sales charts. The Q50 is a potential winner as its new age technology successfully targets the techno savvy individual who wants a seamless link between their devices and car. The drive is good too and the Q50 offers plenty of space for people and luggage. Theres a decent range of engines including a performance hybrid. From R410 000.
A much leaner price tag than those above, the Fusion is hoping to coax would-be buyers into Ford’s sedan offering with the promise of great value for money. It doesnt lack space in comparison to the more expensive models above and its new range of fuel efficient engines are impressive. It also looks stylish while the ride is superb. The Fusion offers impressive tech, a huge boot and will comfortably eat up miles on those long journeys. From R369 900
Citroen Aircross Concept Revealed
Citroen has revealed the Aircross concept which will be shown at the 2015 Shanghai Motor Show later this month. Based on the C4 Cactus, but only bigger, the Aircross concept is a refreshing take on what a SUV can offer in terms of styling and features and points to the possible design direction for the production model.
Citroen Aircross Concept with unique features
Citroen has adopted somewhat strange names for the Aircross features to supposedly portray ‘Consumate Comfort For Extra Energy’, go figure. Designed to offer a new travelling experience, the Aircross concept features ‘Alloy Bumps’ on the side skirting made from honeycomb aluminium castings which is a different take on the ‘Air Bumps’ found on the C4 Cactus. Chrome rear window surrounds are called ‘Air Signs’ and the front air intakes have been dubbed ‘Air Curtains’.
The seats inside the Aircross are said to be ‘broad and generous’ and kitted out in warm materials and vibrant colours. The Aircross concept also features specially designed storage compartments as well as 12-inch HD screens, with one being mobile which can be passed around by passengers for personal use. Also, each seat comes equipped with speakers and a microphone which encourages passengers to have a chat with one another.
The Citroen Aircross will be powered by a plug-in hybrid drivetrain that will combine performance and efficiency, but details will be revealed closer to its official appearance later this month.
South Africans can expect to see the Citroen C4 Cactus launch in the country at the end of April 2015.
Land Rover Discovery Sport Price in South Africa Announced
Land Rover South Africa has put pricing details for the highly anticipated Discovery Sport on its website. Replacing the Freelander, the Land Rover Discovery Sport will be offered with a total of nine variants to choose from.
Discovery Sport is Big on Choice
The range starts with the Land Rover Discovery Sport S with a choice of three engines including a 110 kW / 400 Nm 2.2-litre TD4 diesel, a 140 kW / 420 Nm 2.2-litre SD4 diesel and a 177 kW / 340 Nm Si4 petrol engine.
Two engine choices will be offered in SE, HSE and HSE Luxury trim including the 140 kW / 420 Nm 2.2-litre SD4 diesel and the 177 kW / 340 Nm 2.0-litre Si4 petrol engine. All engines will be mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission.
Land Rover Discovery Sport Price in South Africa
Discovery Sport S 2.2 TD4 Diesel – R541 900
Discovery Sport S 2.2 SD4 Diesel – R590 300
Discovery Sport S 2.0 Si4 Petrol – R590 300
Discovery Sport SE 2.2 SD4 Diesel – R635 600
Discovery Sport SE 2.0 Si4 Petrol – R636 600
Discovery Sport HSE 2.2 SD4 Diesel – R692 300
Discovery Sport HSE 2.0 Si4 Petrol – R692 300
Discovery Sport HSE Luxury 2.2 SD4 Diesel – R731 400
Discovery Sport HSE Luxury 2.0 Si4 Petrol – R731 400
