The Renault Alpine is set to become a sports car brand within the Renault brand and as a 60th celebration to Alpine it has released a sports car concept called the Celebration. The Celebration concept looks a lot more believable and possible than the A110-50 concept revealed back in 2012.
Alpine Celebration Details
Renault has been threatening to debut the return of the Alpine for a few years now and maintains that its on track for 2016. This sportscar concept forms the base of a two-seater coupe sports car with that harks back to the Alpine rally cars with its spotlights in the centre of the front bumper. Carbon detailing is used to highlight the high-tech features of the cars body, from its spoiler to the side sills, diffuser, rear air intakes and mirrors.
The rear integrates air intakes built into the rear quarter panels to contribute to engine cooling. The engine cover which can be spied through the louvered motifs of the rear window reveals the mid-rear positioning of the power plant.
No details are available on the powerplant, but it is expected the Renault Alpine Celebration will dig into the Renault parts box for either the Clio 1.6 turbo or the Megane 2.0 turbo. With efficiency being so much of a factor these days its likely the Clio engine will be favoured. Thats not a bad thing though as the Alpine Celebration is said to weigh just over 1 000kg. Hopefully Alpine does away with the dual-clutch box and goes for a straight six-speed manual which will keep the enthusiasts happy.
No release or debut date has been set but most pundits expect a real car to hit the show stands at Geneva Auto Show in 2016.
Ford Focus 1.5T Trend (2015) Review
Ford South Africa introduced the facelifted Focus to market earlier in the year, ushering in a host of improvements, both inside and out. Being a global best-seller, the Focus is an important model for the Ford brand and although it sells well in South Africa, it should do better. The Focus plays in a competitive space and Ford has put its best foot forward in an effort to up the stakes against the likes of the popular Volkswagen Golf. Does the revised Ford Focus have what it takes to win the hearts, minds and confidence of the South African public?
The unit on test here is the Ford Focus 1.5T Trend in Frozen White.
Whats New?
The most significant change is the introduction of the 1.0-litre and 1.5-litre EcoBoost engines to the Focus range. These engines should be well received in South Africa judging by the uptake in Europe.
Now sitting lower and wider than before, the new Focus has also received some beauty treatment in the form of a new bonnet, front fascia and grille as well a slimmer rear end and thinner tail lights. Fords magic wand has been waved on the inside too in an attempt to improve cabin quality and a number of under-the skin changes have been made to improve drive and handling too. From the outside then, the Focus actually looks pretty good, but lets step inside.
Interior Antics
The interior of the Focus is mostly fitted with dark plastic surfaces, some of which are of very good quality, but there’s a definite lack of consistency when it comes to the grade of plastics used. We also noticed a large panel gap between the door and B-pillar which is disappointing for a car in this segment. The large soft-touch dashboard houses the infotainment system which is accessed via a 4.2-inch screen. The system is relatively easy to use, but does require a fair amount of button-pushing to get used to the functionality. We liked the adjustable center storage console which offers more space for smaller goodies and it does a good job of holding bottles firmly in place.
The fabric seats are comfortable and both the driver and passenger seat is height adjustable. The multifunction steering wheel is rake and reach adjustable and features audio, Bluetooth and cruise control buttons. The Focus is also equipped with not one, but two USB ports and an Auxiliary port, which is great.
In terms of dimensions, the Focus is larger than its competitors, affording it generous interior space and average size rear passengers should be happy with the leg and headroom available. The 316-litre boot offers decent space which can be expanded even further by folding the 60/40 split rear bench completely flat. Other niceties include electric windows all-round as well as vanity mirrors with lighting for the driver and passenger.
Drive Time
The Focus on test here comes fitted with Fords new 1.5-litre Ecoboost petrol engine that produces an admirable 132 kW and 240 Nm of torque. Those figures outshine the competition by a healthy margin and are put to tar using a 6-speed manual transmission. We found changing gears to be quite pleasant as the lever requires minimal effort for shifting, which is always pleasing. Theres no wrestling the gear lever in this Focus.
Youll also be happy to know that the Ford Focus performs very well out on the road and delivers its power with grace and composure. What we liked about the Focus is its driving flexibility. Its an excellent car to drive conservatively in the city, but it also has the ability to perform when required. The engine has some gusto and in-gear acceleration is excellent which makes overtaking easy and somewhat fun.
In terms of ride and handling, Ford has done an excellent job. Thanks to revised steering, suspension and a stiffer chassis, the Focus soaks up bumps and imperfections easily, delivering a pleasantly smooth ride. The Focus feels solid and planted to the road even when you press on and it handles corners with precision and poise. The Focus inspires confidence and is a capable and fun car to drive on a daily basis.
In terms of fuel economy, Ford claims 5.5L/100km on the combined cycle and we managed to achieve 8.1-litres during the test period. With stop/start technology and a mindful driving style, figures between 7 and 7.5L/100km are certainly do-able.
On the safety front, the Focus is right up there with its competitors and offers a host of safety features including six airbags, ABS with EBD, Brake Assist, traction control and electronic stability control. Additional driver assistance systems are offered as an option and these include Perpendicular Parking, Active Park Assist, Cross Traffic Alert, Park-Out Assist, Active City Stop, Lane Departure Warning as well as front and rear sensors with a rear view camera.
Ford Focus Price in South Africa
This Ford Focus 1.5T Trend hatchback is priced at R271 900. Buyers can also opt for the smaller capacity 1.0T derivative with pricing starting from R217 900. The price includes a 4-year/120 000km warranty and a 4-year/80 000km service plan.
Verdict
The Ford Focus is a solid offering that delivers a decent dose of spec for the price while also offering excellent drive and handling. More than this, the new 1.5-litre EcoBoost engine is a star performer. Apart from an interior thats lacking in pizzazz when compared to its competitors, you simply cant go wrong with the latest Focus, it really is that good.
The 132kW turbo engine is the real star of the show. It’s a respectable output which gives the Ford Focus some excellent performance credentials, without forgetting the eco benefits. The ride is excellent and few cars in this class soak up the bumps as well as this Focus. However there are a couple of build quality issues in the interior such as panel gaps and poor quality plastics, but overall the Ford Focus is a good car. -David Taylor
At the price, this Focus makes a very convincing argument. Yes, the interior fit and finish is not quite up to scratch, and certainly not as good as in a Golf… or an Auris, but then the Focus is so much cheaper. The new engine is excellent and it rides beautifully. –Hannes Oosthuizen
We Like: Engine Performance, excellent drive and handling, good safety features
We Dont Like: Some interior quality issues
Also Consider: Volkswagen Golf, Renault Megane GT Line, Hyundai i30
Ford Focus 1.5T Trend Quick Specs
Toyota Auris (2015) First Drive
Toyota South Africa has introduced the next version of its Auris hatchback to the media and we attended the Cape Town leg of its national launch.
The Auris is the Toyota brand’s rival to the Volkswagen Golf, the Ford Focus, Honda Civic and Renault Megane to name but a few competitors. The Volkswagen Golf and to a lesser extent, the Ford Focus are the segment champions and despite Toyota’s brand power in South Africa, the Auris hasn’t quite matched these two in terms of sales. That’s not to say it’s a bad car, it’s just that the other two seemingly offer a little more appeal.
2015 Toyota Auris Details
With lagging sales, Toyota has launched a refreshed Auris to the public and the changes are considerable. First up are some visual alterations, with sharper looks at the front end and a neatened up rear. Toyota SA has also launched two new colours, the Citrus you see here as well as a metallic Blue which was previously reserved for the hybrid model.
Underneath the metal surface, Toyota is claiming suspension improvements and soundproofing enhancements, which make for an uprated ride quality. The interior too gains some upgrades in the form of a smart-looking touchscreen infotainment system as well as interior quality improvements to the door handles and air vents.
What does this mean in terms of an on-road experience? Toyota SA organised a launch with a difference where there was no pre-assigned launch route. This was an opportunity to put the new Auris through its paces on our terms. First up was a dynamic test through Chapman’s Peak, which highlighted a solid and sorted chassis.
Next up was some highway cruising at the national speed limit where road noise and vibration was minimal. Finally, a drive through the cobbled streets of the Bo Kaap was sure to highlight any faults in build quality. Despite some vigorous driving on some exceptionally bumpy roads, the Toyota Auris didn’t have any rattles or squeaks. Toyota build quality lives up to its reputation again!
In summary, the new Toyota Auris is a well-built and reasonably affordable hatchback. We still favour the more upmarket/premium appeal of the Volkswagen Golf 7 for now, but we’ll wait until we have had some substantial time behind the wheel for a full evaluation. Initial impressions are good though!
New Toyota Auris Price in South Africa
Toyota Auris X – R223 700
Toyota Auris Xi – R249 100
Toyota Auris Xs – R259 800
Toyota Auris Xr – R287 700
Toyota Auris Xr CVT – R301 700
The new Auris benefits from a three-year/100 000 km warranty. All Auris models come standard with a five-year/ 90 000 km service plan as well as 24-hour ToyotaCare Roadside Assistance.
Drag Race: New VW Polo GTI vs Ford Fiesta ST
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Its another Friday and we are thrilled to present Round 2 of our VW Polo GTI vs Ford Fiesta ST track shootout but this time its a good old fashioned straight line drag race.
A fortnight ago, Ciro was curiously delighted to see the Fiesta ST take on the new Volkswagen Polo GTI, with its new 141 kW, 1.8-Litre turbo engine which on paper meant the plucky Ford was outgunned. With Ashley Oldfield behind the wheel, we knew it would be close.
But, sadly, very few owners will ever get to push their hot hatches around a circuit, so in some ways, the straight-line performance of these cars is more important.
Again, the new Polo looks much stronger here. It is has more power and roughly the same torque as the 1.6 turbo -powered Fiesta ST, but it is slightly heavier. However, as weve seen in our previous drag races, most notably the VW Golf 7 R vs Subaru WRX STI, the DSG gearbox is a huge advantage in drag racing, with almost no time lost changing gears up the strip. And fortunately for Ciro, almost no skill required either.
Which is why we put our very own ace racing driver, Ashley Oldfield, in the Fiesta ST, to give it the very best chance of giving the Polo a good run for its money.
And money, we reckon, is the most important and tangible difference between the two. The Polo is unquestionably the more premium product, but in terms of performance, is the R50 000 price premium worth it?
Suzuki South Africa has been on a roll over the course of the past 12 months and has launched numerous products into multiple segments. The result is a small brand that’s punching above its weight in terms of sales and profitability. Now there’s yet another model in the lineup and this time it’s the affordable sedan market that’s being targeted. We spent a week with the new Suzuki Ciaz to see how it stacks up.
Suzuki is taking a bit of a risk here. Firstly, the sedan market is in a slight decline, with people favouring hatchbacks and light crossovers. Secondly, this segment is dominated by the likes of the Toyota Corolla/Corolla Quest and to a lesser extent, the Honda Ballade. In May 2015 alone, Toyota registered 1 400 Corolla/Auris/Quest vehicles, while Honda managed 168 Ballades. Suzuki mustered just 33 Ciaz… Both marques have impressive brand credibility plus resale, and it’s going to take a mighty effort from Suzuki and its Ciaz to make a dent in sales.
The Suzuki Ciaz is a modern and reasonably fresh-looking sedan. While it’s a far cry from the beautiful Ciaz concept we saw at the 2014 Delhi Motor Show, it still retains upmarket and semi-premium design touches. Our test unit came in a lovely shade of red, dubbed Merlot Red Pearl and had some smart 16-inch alloys which made it stand out in comparison to the usual white/silver which probably adds to this segment’s blandness. Let’s be honest here, sedans in this segment are purchased with a sensible head, with very little intervention from the heart. Words used to describe cars in this segment are functional, spacious, practical, reliable and perhaps most importantly, affordable.
Performance and Ride
Keeping a car under a certain price barrier while still offering value for money and loads of features is a skill Suzuki does very well. In this case, R200 000 gets you a spacious four-door sedan powered by a 1.4-litre engine delivering 70 kW and 130 Nm. Power reaches the front wheels through a five-speed manual gearbox and fuel consumption is claimed at 5.4L/100km. Those are the on-paper specs, but how does it drive in reality?
On the roads in an urban environment, the Suzuki Ciaz acquits itself well by offering reasonable in-town acceleration combined with a relatively slick gearbox. However, this was done with one person driving. Factor in two or three passengers plus an open road and things are less rosy.
The car, when loaded, is relatively underpowered on South African freeways and overtaking requires some planning, plus quickly gearing down. Thankfully the gearshift action is positive and slick. However, reverse gear can be a bit sticky and requires a few attempts before it slots in. The ride and handling quality was quite good, but the car did tend to be a bit crashy over poor surfaces at low speed. Braking prowess is generally good too. During its week with us, the Suzuki Ciaz returned 8.8L/100km. This is due to the engine needing a healthy dose of revs to get going.
As mentioned earlier, it’s the specification levels and value for money where Suzuki does well and the Ciaz is no exception. Interior space is also highly commended with both the boot space and rear legroom being larger than expected. Interestingly, the driver’s seating position is very high and even at its lowest setting, taller folk might feel awkward while driving.
Specification and Safety Features
Tested here is the Ciaz 1.4 GLX which comes with keyless start, rear sunblind, automatic air-conditioning, CD audio system, steering mounted audio & Bluetooth controls, leather seats, rear air conditioning vents, front fog lights and a 12V charging point. As generous as this spec is, we would have preferred split/folding rear seats and ISOFIX mounts instead of something gimmicky like keyless entry.
Ergonomics and interior build quality are simple, uncluttered and solid respectively. There are some clever touches too, such as the centre console storage area lighting up when its dark. The Bluetooth pairing system is easy to use, despite the basic LCD screen. The Suzuki Ciaz has basic safety ticked with a driver and passenger airbag, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) with EBD (Electronic Brake Force Distribution) as well as brake assist.
Verdict
The Suzuki Ciaz plunges headlong into a competitive segment and we don’t think it’s quite good enough to beat the established competition. In some aspects, such as specification and interior space, it wins outright, but the lack of a punchy engine is a problem. The competition all boast bigger engines and a 1.4 70 kW motor might be inadequate for families, especially at altitude. If you’re on your own and don’t have much to carry, it’s acceptable.
On the plus side, it adds some much-needed personality into the segment and is undoubtedly the best-looking vehicle in its class. The boot at 495L is one of the more spacious and rear legroom is outstanding. There’s that generous specification too, which is always welcome. Ultimately, despite these positives, the Suzuki Ciaz is not going to be top of mind when it comes to buying a sedan and we’d always look to the Toyota Quest 1.6 as the segment leader, despite the great spec and 6 airbags of the Honda Ballade.
Suzuki Ciaz Price in South Africa
The Suzuki Ciaz retails from R179 900 for the base model. The 1.4 GLX manual tested here costs R199 900 and there is an automatic at R214 900. The price includes a 3 year/60 000km service plan as well as a 100 000km/3 year warranty. Service intervals are every 15 000km.
Test Team’s Comments
Not only does the Suzuki Ciaz have a difficult name to pronounce, it’s a difficult car to place. To drive it feels like a fleet car – nondescript – but then it’s fitted with leather seats, a privacy blind and alloy wheels. The seats don’t fold down but rear space is decent for passengers. The Ciaz then seems uncertain of which segment of the market it’s aiming at, plus the Corolla Quest is cheaper and equally as bulletproof. -Ashley Oldfield
My thoughts mirror fellow tester Ashley Oldfield’s. Inherently there’s not much wrong here, but the specification doesn’t seem right. If it is aimed at fleets, then it could lose some spec and price. If it is aimed at families, then it needs folding rear seats and possibly Isofix. Still, if you must have a sedan for whatever reason, then at least the Ciaz is a good-looking one. – Hannes Oosthuizen
Volkswagen South Africa is introducing a new Polo Vivo to the range, calling it a special edition Eclipse. With the introduction of special edition Polo Vivo Eclipse, Volkswagen has another derivative to help it sustain its segment leadership.
Polo Vivo Eclipse is available in both hatch and sedan styles. To make it a special edition, it is only offered in two colours, Pure White and Deep Pearlescent Black.
The special edition Eclipse is fitted with a 1.4-litre, 63 kW engine with 132 Nm of torque and is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission.
On the exterior, the Polo Vivo Eclipse’s is distinguished by silver side mirror housings, 16-inch Mistral alloy wheels, ‘Eclipse’ badges at the back and side, lowered suspension and a chrome strip on the boot and side. The interior features include the centre console that’s painted in steel graphite, partial leather on the steering wheel and gear lever and Global seat trim.
“Polo Vivo has been the dominant model in the local A0 hatch segment in spite of the new competitor models being launched on a regular basis. Its key product attributes such as affordability, German build quality, safety, space and comfort have a set an unparalleled benchmark in the segment. These attributes continue to re-affirm Polo Vivo’s unique offering of “affordable and accessible mobility” to South African customers,” said Petra Hoffmann, Director: Sales and Marketing at Volkswagen Group South Africa.
Volkswagen Polo Vivo Eclipse Pricing
1.4 63 kW Eclipse Hatch R168 600
1.4 63 kW Eclipse Sedan R174 600
Polo Vivo Eclipse come standard with a 3 year/120 000km warranty and a 6 year Anti Corrosion warranty. A 5 year/60 000km Volkswagen Automotion Maintenance Plan as well as a 5 year/60 000 km Service Plan are available as options. The service interval is 15 000 km.
Isuzu KB Serengeti Special Edition in SA
Isuzu is now offering the new KB Serengeti Special Edition in South Africa. The new special edition model follows on from the success of the Midnite Edition which was launched last year.
Based on the flagship KB 300 LX Double Cab, the new SERENGETI Special Edition continues Isuzus heritage of special models in South Africa. Just as Isuzus toughness and reliability are legendary and well known to those who seek the ultimate adventure, the special edition reflects the essence of resilience of the brand. The new SERENGETI Special Edition has the looks and appeal to attract attention on the road and set its owners apart from the rest, says General Motors South Africa Isuzu Brand Manager, Mlungisi Nonkonyana.
Special Features
The Isuzu KB Serengeti Special Edition features a bumper guard and side steps with silver accents. The B-pillar has been blacked out and this model also comes equipped with silver roof rails, a chrome sports bar and towbar. The Isuzu KB Serengeti Special Edition rides on 18-inch alloy wheels fitted with all-terrain tyres. The model also comes with decals and badging. A tonneau cover is available as an option.
On the inside, a combination of brushed silver, chrome and black trim give this special edition model an exclusive feel. The Serengeti Special Edition carpets and chrome door sill plates further distinguishes it from other Isuzu models. The leather seats are electrically adjustable too.
Isuzu KB Serengeti Special Edition is powered by the proven 3.0-litre D-TEQ diesel engine which offers 130 kW and 380 Nm of torque. Buyers can choose between a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission for the 4×2 derivative, while the 4×4 derivative makes use of a 5-speed manual transmission only. Drivers can switch between rear-wheel drive (2H), four-wheel drive with rear differential lock (4H) and low-range (4L) using the Terrain Command rotary switch. Towing capacity is rated at 3 500 kg.
Isuzu KB Serengeti Special Edition Price in South Africa
Following numerous teasers, BMW has officially revealed the new 7-series which combines ‘unbeatable driving pleasure and long-distance comfort in a sedan’. The new 7-Series is up to 130 kg lighter than its predecessor.
Technology Fest
The new BMW 7-Series features a host of technological advancements which contribute to improved dynamics, efficiency, comfort and safety. Some notable features include optional Laserlight headlights which are also used on the BMW i8 and Remote Control Parking.
In terms of comfort, the BMW 7-Series is well sorted with the Executive Lounge Package which includes automatic air conditioning with 4-zone control, electrically adjustable seats with massage function and ventilation. With the optional Executive Lounge Seating, passengers can literally lie horizontally as the seat moves 90 mm forward. A Sky Lounge Panorama glass roof and Welcome Light carpet add to the ambiance in the car. There’s also a smartphone charging station as well as a a 7-inch tablet computer which gives passengers control over the infotainment system. The driver has access to the latest iDrive system via a touch display with gesture control and Touch Command.
Ambiance is enhanced thanks to a Sky Lounge Panorama glass roof in long wheelbase versions which can mimic a starry sky using LED modules. With the Ambient light option, a Welcome Light Carpet provides lighting around the doors while light is also provided from light sourced in the B-pillar. Sound lovers will get aural pleasure via a Bowers & Wilkins Diamond surround sound system, which has been specially tuned for the new 7 Series.
BMW 7-Series Engines
Buyers will have the choice of a number of engine variants in both short and long wheelbase format, all of which are mated to an 8-speed Steptronic transmission. First up is the 750i xDrive and 750Li xDrive which is powered by a 4.4-litre TwinPower Turbo V8 engine that offers 330 kW and 650 Nm of torque. It enables the model to accelerate from 0-100 kph in 4.4 seconds, before hitting a limited top speed of 250 kph.
The 740i and 740Li is powered by a 3.0-litre TwinPower Turbo six-cylinder engine 240 kW and 450 Nm of torque. It runs from 0-100 km/h in 5.5 seconds with a top speed of 250 kph.
The 730d, 730Ld, 730d xDrive and 730Ld xDrive features a 3.0-litre TwinPower Turbo six-cylinder diesel engine that produces 195 kW and 620 Nm of torque. 0-100 kph is achieved in 5.8 seconds before topping out at 250 kph.
The new BMW 740e, 740Le and 740Le xDrive plug-in hybrid is powered by a 2.0-litre TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder petrol engine coupled with a 70 kW electric motor and a lithium-ion battery. Combined maximum output is at 240 kW which allows the car to accelerate from 0-100 kph in 5.5 seconds before claiming a top speed of 240kph. This model consumes 2.1 L/100km and can travel up to 40 km on electricity alone at speeds up to 120 kph.
Driving comfort is aided with an air suspension system with self-leveling and Dynamic Damper Control. The Driving Assistant Plus system now also includes steering and lane control assistant, lane keeping assist, active collision protection, rear collision prevention and crossing traffic warning. The driver can also select different driving modes to suit driving requirements, whether it be sporty handling, comfort or driving in ECO PRO mode. ADAPTIVE mode can also be selected using the Driving Experience Control which adjusts the car’s setting according to driving style and route characteristics.
The new BMW 7-Series can be expected in South Africa in January 2016. Stay tuned for further details.
BMW 7-Series Technology and Features Video
Mercedes-Benz GLA45 AMG Edition 1 (2014) Review
Madness I tell you, madness. 265 kW in a slightly raised hatchback would have been something thought impossible a mere few years ago. Mercedes-Benz then launched the most powerful 2-Litre production engine ever and proceeded to send power to all four wheels. In the past, this sort of teenage unruliness was reserved for rally derived monsters badged STI or EVO. With the GLA45 Mercedes-Benz may just have taken up the mantle where the others have dropped the ball. We held on for dear life and tried to come to terms with the R850 000 Mercedes-Benz GLA45 AMG over a weeks test.
What makes a maniac?
As mentioned above, there are 265 kW and 450 Nm of torque out of the 2-Litre turbocharged motor under the bonnet. That powerplant sits 91mm higher than in a normal A45 AMG thanks to the increased ride height of the GLA. If you havent already noticed from the pictures above, this particular GLA45 AMG is the Edition 1 version, which means AMG escalates the number of accessories, bumper bits and winglets. The parts do add on a hefty whack to the price, but you get one mean, aggressive and purposeful looking hatchback. The red stickering around the front was starting to peel off in some areas, which is not something we would expect from this expensive a car, nevermind a Mercedes-Benz.
That engine
We have some experience with this 2-Litre turbo unit as weve previously tested it in the A45 AMG, but it seems to be more aggressive and more binary in this GLA version. Its almost an all or nothing power-band as you work your way through the throttle pedal. Theres a fair amount of turbo-lag right at the bottom of the rev range and then it unleashes a massacre as all four wheels are called to action and the exhaust pipes rattle off a remix of a World War II battle.
The combination of power and sound hits all the right senses and the seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox does a good job of shifting through the ratios quickly. Downshifts are brisk too. At slower speeds it can be frustrating though as the engine seems to always run below any form of boost especially in eco modes where the gearbox does tend promote low revs when driving slowly, likely to preserve as much fuel as possible.
Interior mix up
Judging by the exterior of the GLA45 AMG we expected the interior to be equally garish, but in reality this is not the case. There are some serious bucket seats to drop into and you feel incredibly supported and comfortable by the lateral bolsters and the endless electrical adjustments on offer. The Edition 1 interior arrangements include a mix of Alcantara and leather, bits of red stitching dotted around the cabin and a special AMG performance steering wheel. Its quite luxury performance inside as opposed to gangster rapper outside.
Space wise its actually quite decent in the GLA, the rear legroom is admirable and the boot can hold 481-Litres worth of equipment. Headroom is excellent thanks to the GLAs crossover shape and the racing bucket seats plants the driver a little lower in the cabin. For the racer fans, theres a lap timer built in to the binnacle to record track laps. Seven airbags are specced as standard with the option of nine if you feel that youre likely to be in need of some extra cushioning.
Ride and Handling
Launch control starts in this GLA45 AMG are pure madness. It gets off the line like Roadrunner from the old cartoons. Theres even a split second where it stands still with all four wheel spinning underneath. But when it finds traction the GLA45 reels in the horizon like its about to warp time. Theres a reason this GLA45 AMG is our reigning drag race champion, having laid waste to the CLS 63 AMG and the mighty S65 AMG in a 400m race.
If there are any Subaru STI or Mitsubishi EVO fans out there looking for a place to spend their bucks then this is where they should be heading. The GLA45 AMG is hardcore, the suspension is firm, even in the most comfort of all the settings, but it isnt terrible when you get to speedbumps and potholes. The ride is hard over bumps but the quality of the build means that it doesnt crash into the cabin. On the open road the GLA45 AMG is pleasant to cruise in, but youre constantly tempted to pin the accelerator to the floor by the enticing exhaust mutter.
As far as handling goes, the old rally-inspired sedans still have an edge in the thrills department. The GLA45 AMG is a little too safe, predictable and understeery. Theres not too much to thrill you when you want to put it on a track, the back end is far too planted and the result is an inevitable push of the front into- and out of corners. It could have been a little wilder and lairy to drive, but the all-wheel drive system is front-wheel biased, only calling on the rear wheels when absolutely necessary.
Verdict
Mercedes-Benz has certainly found a gap in the market where the previous rally-inspired racers of old have faded away. Those buyers would do well to get a GLA45 AMG as the ostentatious look is a head turner on any street. The acceleration and straight line addiction is more than acceptable and its still practical as a four-door crossover. It may lack a little in track thrills but is more than capable on a mountain pass. You will have to swallow down an R835 643 bill though, and thats a hefty tag to get past.
Test Team’s Comments
“The Mercedes-Benz GLA45 AMG is a proper animal and is savagely fast right from standstill. Launch control is enough to see off most sportscars, while there’s still enough practicality to earn it a slightly sensible tag. Few cars are this hardcore and it’ll take a real fanatic to get the best out of it. It’s ridiculously over the top, but I love it for that very reason.” -David Taylor
“To be honest, I thought I was going to hate this thing. But I don’t. It may be as stylish as showing up for work in tight red lederhosen, but from behind the wheel you won’t care. It is hilariously good to drive, blistering off the line and sticks to the corners. It makes every journey engaging and fun. Shucks… Mercedes-Benz has out-Subaru’d Subaru. Who’d have thought…” -Hannes Oosthuizen
We Like: Incredible acceleration, battle-ready looks, aural stimulation
S65 AMG Coupe – World’s Most Expensive Mercedes Benz (Video)
One of the most entertaining games petrol enthusiasts like to play is What would you buy? a pastime that is mostly futile unless you own some sort of gold mine, or youve developed an app that is more popular than flinging birds at pigs.
Up until recently, if anyone had asked me what Id buy with R3.5million, I dont think the answer would have been a V12 Mercedes Benz.
Then I spent a week with the new S65 AMG Coupe. It is a model that replaces the relatively popular CL range, but to be honest, the new generation is so good that Mercedes could very easily market it as an entirely new entry to its stable. And to explain why, weve made this video in a bid to convey why this car is so special.
It is vastly luxurious. The interior is easily one of the best available in any car at any pricepoint. Im quite happy to say that Ive never encountered a cabin which blends quality with technology quite like this. The Bentley Continental GT, the S Coupes key rival, has a magnificent interior, but the SatNav is from Passat. Not that a Bentley driver would know what a Passat is. But I do, and its annoying.
And gone are the days when a luxury barge was exactly that: a barge. Thanks to technology, the big girl does a very laudable job of being a driverss car. As youll see in the video, the S Coupe makes use of world-first technology to help it through the corners. In fact, I found it easier to push harder in this car than in the smaller CLS 63 AMG.
So, what would I buy with R3.5million? Well, I could get a Ferrari California, or quite a nice second hand Ferrari 458, which is a real gem of a thing. I could have a Maserati GT with some change. Or a very nice Porsche.
But would I be as comfortable? No. Would I command as much presence on the road? Probably not. And would people like me more? Probably. Every time I stopped for petrol in this car, which was often, I had about 13 people at my window wanting to know all about it. I dont think you get that in a California.
Right now, Im a little jealous of mine owners and oil barons and Finnish wunderkid app developers. Because the S65 AMG Coupe is one of the best cars ever built, and I miss it very much.
