Official images of the Mazda2 Sedan have been revealed ahead of the vehicles public debut scheduled for next week at the Thailand International Motor Expo.
All-new Mazda2 Sedan at Thailand International Motor Expo
The all-new Mazda2 is the fourth in Mazda’s line-up of new-generation vehicles adopting the full range of SKYACTIV technologies and the KODO-Soul of Motion design theme. Visually, the car seems to have downsized to the size of the Mazda3, however it comes with more appealing design features from the rest in its segment.
Power will come from a SKYACTIV-D 1.5-litre diesel engine capable of delivering 77 kW and 220 Nm of torque. Fuel consumption figures are yet to be released but its expected the sedan will return figures close to those of the Mazda2 hatchback which sit at 3.4L/100 km with CO2 emissions of 89g/km.
More details on the new Mazda2 Sedan will be announced at the Thailand International Motor Expo next week.
The answer depends on the value you place on safety and how much you can afford to spend on a new car. The Datsun GO is all about perspective. To relate, I drove a VW Golf Chico across South Africa multiple times for 12 years, all in a car that’s devoid of any safety features, no ABS, no airbags, no nothing and yet it remains a popular used car. The GO’s maiden sales figures speak volumes with 583 units sold in its first month, which is mightily impressive, if not surprising.
I put the Datsun GO Lux model through its paces to see if it offers value for money, but more importantly to gauge whether it will serve the needs of countless cash-strapped car buyers in South Africa.
Awkward Styling
Let’s be honest, the Datsun GO is no stunner, but it has a certain, awkward, charm about it. Apart from its prominent honeycomb grille with chrome surrounds and relatively bold, compact styling, our test unit came fitted with various aftermarket styling appointments such as wind visors, coloured body stickers, a rear roof spoiler and illuminated ‘GO’ scuff plates, giving it some flair and attitude that cars in this segment lack. The 13-inch wheels look rather small in the arches though.
The styling of the GO attracted some attention with one motorist shouting ‘Hey, lekker Datsun boet’. I couldn’t tell if he was genuine.
Blast from the past interior
The GO’s interior is something of a time warp and rather unique. The front seat is a bench, literally, with no gap between the seats and bolstering is just about nonexistent. By modern standards, the bench seat looks a bit odd, yet it’s still functional and can split-fold if necessary. This test model also came fitted with racy leather seat covers with embossed ‘GO’ lettering for an extra dose of Datsun attitude.
Due to the bench seat up front, the gear lever and handbrake lever are mounted in the centre console, which takes a bit of getting used to. The interior is kitted out in hard-wearing beige grey plastic with switchgear of the same order. Four bulging air vents take care of the air-conditioning and storage is limited to an exposed under-dash compartment and in-door pockets, or on the bench seat next to you.
Boot space is reasonable for a car of this size, offering 265-litres and the rear bench has space for three people, the smaller the better though. We also managed to squeeze three surfboards into the Datsun GO, which was rather impressive.
Our test model came fitted with an aftermarket radio, but the standard GO comes with a Mobile Docking Station (MDS) which allows you to connect your mobile device to two speakers using an auxiliary cable and a USB port is also offered. The tachometer is incorporated into the Drive Computer and front electric windows were a nice luxury. Like whisky, the interior of the Datsun GO is an acquired taste and won’t appeal to everyone, but it does the job.
Rough Rider
The Datsun GO is powered by a 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine that offers up 50 kW of power and 104 Nm of torque through a five-speed manual transmission. On urban roads, these figures are sufficient to scoot you about your business. However, I found the Datsun GO to be less fit for highway driving. Severe body-roll is evident while cornering and road and engine noise becomes overbearing as speed increases. At 120 kph, I felt a bit vulnerable in the GO and the car didn’t inspire confidence on congested highways which disturbed me somewhat. For this reason, the Datsun GO is not an ideal long-distance hauler but will serve its owner well in the suburbs.
The engine is tough and durable but has a raw, throaty sound to it. With the revs limited to 5 000 rpm, you tend to change gears often to find the power but at least gear changes using the joystick gear lever are relatively smooth. In terms of fuel consumption, the Datsun GO under performed on its claimed 5.2-litres / 100km. My best efforts returned 7.3-litres / 100km, which was a bit disappointing, but still reasonable.
Datsun GO – Verdict
As a basic runabout, the Datsun GO is an attractive and accessible option for lower income earners looking for an affordable and durable vehicle. The engine is solid and the overall styling is more exciting than other cars in this segment of the market. If you’re looking for safety, look elsewhere. But, if you are looking for no fuss, carefree mobility, the Datsun GO may very well suit your needs and that seems to be the case for many South Africans looking to buy their first new car. The Datsun GO is definitely worth considering if you’re shopping in this corner of the market and we advise that you compare the Datsun GO with its competitors.
Second Opinion
The Datsun GO has had a choppy re-introduction to SA as its overall safety has come under fire. Whilst most of us adults grew up in cars even less safe we’ve come to expect more from our modern day budget wheels. As a city car where speeds are lower the GO probably suits just fine but if you’re going to be doing a lot of mileage on freeways or higher speed roads then it may be best to look elsewhere. – Ashley Oldfield
Datsun GO Price in South Africa
The base model Datsun GO Mid is priced at R89 500 while the Lux version is priced at R99 500. A 3-year / 100 000 km warranty is standard while service and maintenance plans are optional. Service intervals are at 15 000 km.
The covers have finally been lifted off the roofless 2+2 Lexus LF-C2 Concept said to preview the company’s future styling design direction.
“The LF-C2 concept shows whats in store for our brands future design direction, said Jeff Bracken, Lexus group vice president and general manager.
This concept shows consumers around the world Lexus devotion to emotional designs as well as our passion for an exceptional driving experience.
Lexus LF-C2 Concept explores brands future styling direction
Previous teaser images hinted that the vehicle will feature a protruding rear bumper, as well as an integrated trunk spoiler. Its bolder styling direction comes in the form of its open-air design, an aggressive front fascia characterised by LED headlights and a unique spindle grille that has a “braided mesh theme, and a deep front bumper fitted with air vents that cool the front brakes.
Other features include a rear diffuser, L-shaped taillights, an exhaust system with chrome-covered quad exhaust tips and 20-inch five-spoke alloy wheels.
Inside the Lexus LF-C2 Concept you find some elements taken from the RC Coupe, such as the full-length centre console, an analogue clock and new touchscreen controls. The model also has room for up to four passengers, with seats upholstered in a two-tone combination of white and grey leather. Theres also a thick leather-upholstered multi-function steering wheel fitted with small touch pads that replace the conventional buttons, painted trim and LED ambient lighting.
Theres been no mention of what the concept is packing under the hood, but its rumoured the car could have the 5.0-litre V8 engine, 2.5-litre four-cylinder hybrid and 3.5-litre V6 units included in the engine line-up.
Toyota Mirai The Production ready hydrogen car
Earlier this we read about Honda revealing its successor to the Hydrogen powered FCX Clarity the FCV. Honda plans to put the FCV into production by March 2016. Toyota has recently invested heavily in Hydrogen technology and has revealed the Toyota Mirai. The Mirai will go on sale next year (2015) in California but will also stretch to other American states such as Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York and Rhode Island.
How does the Mirai work?
The Toyota Mirais Hydrogen fuel system works by combining Hydrogen gas with Oxygen to create electricity that powers an electric motor that drives the wheels. Power is claimed to be 113 kW whilst the range of a full tank will reach close to 500km.
The word Mirai means future in Japanese and whilst its all good and well having a car of the future, the infrastructure to fuel it needs to be set in place. Thats why Toyota North America CEO Jim Lentz announced a new commitment to drive the development of a hydrogen refuelling infrastructure in five north-eastern U.S. states.
Building a national infrastructure
Toyotas vision of a hydrogen society is not just about building a great car, but ensuring accessible, reliable and convenient refuelling for our customers, said Jim Lentz. I am happy to announce that this vision will expand beyond the borders of California and give customers the opportunity to join the fuel cell movement.
A fuel cell car can be filled up in about the same time as a regular petrol or diesel car and returns similar mileage but it emits nothing but water vapour from its tailpipe. One of the issues with hydrogen cars however is cost and the new Mirai is said to set an owner back around R600 000. However the US may incentivise Hydrogen cars, bringing down the cost to around R450 000 and throwing in three years worth of free Hydrogen fuel.
Its certainly worth watching how this plays out over the next few years as Hydrogen still seems like the most viable solution to our fossil fuel problems.
Honda HR-V Debuts in LA (Video)
Honda is set to add another SUV to its range in the form of the new Honda HR-V that is being shown at the LA motor show. The HR-V will fit in under the larger CR-V and compete against other compact SUVs and Crossovers like the Opel Mokka, newly released Mazda CX-3 and even the likes of the Nissan Qashqai.
Honda HR-V spacious with good spec level
From the previous unveiling we know that the new platform the HR-V will ride on features a centre mounted fuel tank and magic seating. The rear seats can be reconfigured to suit and that allows for a rather large rear section. The boot itself holds 688-Litres and once the rear seats are folded down that expands to 1665-Litres.
Honda has revealed that the HR-V will be powered by a 1.8-Litre four-cylinder engine with iVtec. Power output is claimed to be 103 kW with torque at 172 Nm. It seems there will also be a choice of either a six-speed manual gearbox or a CVT gearbox. The CVT model is also available with all-wheel drive.
Standard safety and driver-assistive features include: ABS with Brake Assist and Hill Start Assist; Vehicle Stability Assist with Traction Control; an Expanded View Driver’s Mirror; a Multi-Angle Rearview Camera; driver and front passenger airbags and side-curtain airbags; Tyre Pressure Monitoring System.
Standard equipment on all HR-V models is impressive so to name just a few you’ll find: power windows, electronic parking brake, rearview camera, aluminum-alloy wheels, tilt and telescoping steering wheel with audio and cruise controls, Bluetooth phone interface and Pandora radio.
Higher trim models can be equipped with premium features including Honda’s 7-inch touchscreen Display Audio telematics interface, LaneWatch, Push-Button Start, paddle shifters, HD Radio and Honda Digital Traffic, heated front seats, sunroof, navigation and leather trim.
Honda HR-V Video
Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Concept (Video)
Chevrolet has taken its US-only bakkie, the Colorado, and given it a bit more of a rugged, off-road look. The concept also showcases the new 2.8-litre Duramax diesel engine. We think the Colorado would make an awesome addition to the Chev off-roader lienup as the Chev Utility‘s big boet.
Colorado ZR2 Concept Details
The Chevrolet Colorado ZR2s stance is four inches wider than a production Colorado Z71, with features including new front and rear fascias designed to increase approach and departure angles whilst off-roading. Ground clearance and rough terrain are handled with a two-inch lift and integral skid plates, while the wider track helps enhance stability in potentially unstable situations.
Special mono-tube coil-over shock absorbers are designed for greater suspension travel and feature remote-mounted fluid reservoirs that add to the Colorado ZR2 concepts capability. An electronically controlled differential is built in to improve off-road traction by distributing torque to the wheels that require it.
Custom wheel flares cover the larger off-road tyres and increased track width. Additional exterior elements include an all-new grille and headlamp housings with blacked-out accents. The power dome-style hood is unique and echoes the design cues of Chevrolets Duramax-powered Silverado heavy-duty trucks.
The Colorado ZR2 concepts new 2.8L Duramax diesel is part of the new range of Chev turbodiesel engines and delivers the go to this bakkie. An estimated 135 kW at 3,400 rpm and 500 Nm of torque at 2,000 rpm is available to tackle the toughest trails. The new engine features a variable-geometry turbocharger for better power and efficiency across the rpm band and a balance shaft for greater smoothness.
Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Concept Comic Book Video
Mercedes-Maybach S-Class Unveiled (Video)
The ultra luxurious Mercedes-Maybach S-Class has been revealed at both Auto Guangzhou, China and at the LA Auto Show. The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class has been dubbed the ‘world’s quietest production sedan car’ thanks to special seals and sound deadening material, which optimise noise insulation.
Mercedes-Maybach is a sub-brand that brings exclusive appointments to Mercedes-Benz vehicles. Mercedes-Maybach vehicles are distinguished from standard production models by providing extra spaciousness and lavishly designed interiors for discerning customers.
Mercedes-Maybach S-Class Models
Models in the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class range include the range-topping S 600 which, is powered by a 6.0-litre twin-turbo V12 engine that offers 390 kW of power and 830 Nm of torque. The S 600 makes use of a 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission.
There will also be a S 500 model on offer, powered by a 4.7-litre bi-turbo V8 engine with 335 kW and 700 Nm on tap. This model is fitted with a 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission.
Exclusive Features
The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is 5 453 mm long with a wheel base of 3 365 mm, which is 20 cm longer in both dimensions compared to the standard S-Class long wheelbase version. Compared to the standard S-Class, the rear door has been shortened by 66mm and the triangular window in the door has moved to the C-pillar. Chrome surrounds the windows and the B-pillar while the Maybach Manufaktur logo can be found on both sides of the C-pillar.
The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class rides on exclusive 20-inch forged light-alloy wheels with large surfaces instead of spokes. Up front, three double chrome louvres differentiate the model from the standard S-Class along with vertical chrome trim. The same theme is carried over to the rear.
The luxury continues inside with a mix of wood, leather and chrome trim with the armrests featuring nappa leather with embossed Maybach crests. The dashboard features a special analogue clock with IWC design with the numbers and indicators crafted from fine metal. Hand-stitched door trim in nappa leather further adds to the car’s interior appeal.
Sound in the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is provided by sound specialists Burmester with two options available including the Burmester surround sound system and the high-end 3-D surround sound system connected to ten loudspeakers and Frontbass system.
The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is due for launch in February 2015. Watch the video to see luxury in motion.
Chevrolet Chaparral 2X Vision Gran Turismo
As part of the Vision Gran Turismo (VGT) project, a design project that looks at the future of the automotive industry, Chevrolet has unveiled the Chaparral 2X VGT. Keen motorsport enthusiasts will remember the Chaparral and Chev partnered to make some rather interesting race cars, notably the rather large-winged 2F run in the late 60s CanAm series.
Chaparral 2X Details
This new Chaparral 2X is a completely different take on a racing car, It was created in a no-rules atmosphere to challenge designers and test engineers to deliver the most exhilarating sensations. This is a fantasy car by design, said Frank Saucedo, who oversaw the team that worked on the concept. Like the original Chaparral race cars decades ago, the Chaparral 2X VGT weaves advanced aerospace technologies into the design to help achieve its performance goals.
The Chaparral 2X VGTs concept propulsion system is inspired by technology derived from advanced work targeted at space travel and future aircraft design. It features a mid-mounted laser beamed-energy propulsion system, which pulses beams of light that focus in a shroud, creating shock waves that generate tremendous thrust.
With a 671 kW laser, powered by a pack of lithium-ion batteries, and an air-powered generator to provide 671 kW worth of thrust, the Chaparral 2X VGT will be capable of a 386kph top speed in the video game with 0-100kph taking just 1.5 seconds. The car will be made available to Playstation 3 Gran Turismo 6 players.
The driver of the Chaparral 2X lies face-down with arms and legs splayed out, Think of it as adapting a wing suit to a racing car, where the drivers movements control certain aspects of the aero package, said Saucedo. In many ways, the Chaparral 2X VGT is like racing wing suit, with a protective fuselage for flying very low to the ground.
Mazda CX-3 Ushers in new Era
Mazda has revealed its all-new model, the CX-3 in Los Angeles. The CX-3 fills a gap in the compact SUV segment just below the current CX-5.
Mazda CX-3 Details
According to Mazda the brand is seeing good growth globally and its reintroduction to SA saw it separate from Ford with its own offices and a launch of the Mazda 3, 6 and CX-5. Mazda sees this as an ideal opportunity to pounce on the ever-growing small SUV segment with its new CX-3.
Powering the new CX-3 is a 1.5-Litre diesel whilst America will get a 2-Litre petrol derivative Power outputs are yet to be decided and will be revealed closer to the launch date. Power will be transferred to either the front wheels, or through Mazda’s new-generation all-wheel-drive system. CX-3 also will be equipped with Mazda’s unique SKYACTIV-Drive automatic transmission.
CX-3 will offer a wide range of Mazda’s active, passive and in-car-infotainment technologies, including the Mazda Connect infotainment system and i-ACTIVSENSE advanced safety features.
Mazda is hoping to start hitting the streets with the new CX-3 by mid-year 2015.
UPDATE: Mazda South Africa is set to bring the CX-3 to our shores before the end of 2015.
Ford Shelby GT350 Mustang Unleashed (Video)
The all-new Ford Shelby GT350 Mustang has been unleashed and described as the “most balanced, nimble and exhilarating production Mustang yet”.
Powerful Performance for Ford Shelby GT350 Mustang
The Ford Shelby GT350 Mustang is fitted with a high-revving, naturally aspirated 5.2-litre V8 engine with a flat-plane crankshaft, which is a first on a Ford V8. This unit offers up no less than 373 kW of power while maximum torque exceeds 542 Nm, making it the most powerful naturally aspirated Ford production engine ever. A six-speed manual gearbox will put that power to the ground.
The Ford Shelby GT350 Mustang rides on 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels. The car takes on a ‘functional-driven’ design to improve overall performance. Features such as a new aluminum hood, re-sculpted fascia and rear diffuser all add to improved aerodynamics.
Interior Styling
The interior is optimized for driving and comes fitted with Recaro sport seats and a flat-bottom steering wheel. The car features upgraded gauges to reflect the performance of the car and chrome detailing has been reduced or removed to avoid reflections and driver distraction.
The all-new intergrated driver control system allows the driver to select between five modes which control the ABS, stability control, traction control, steering effort, throttle mapping, MagneRide tuning and exhaust settings according to the drivers preference.
When we started working on this car, we wanted to build the best possible Mustang for the places we most love to drive challenging back roads with a variety of corners and elevation changes and the track on weekends, said Raj Nair, Ford group vice president, Global Product Development.
