Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG S (2014) Review

The Mercedes-Benz CLS is one of those unique and striking cars that fits in the blurry area of sedan and coupe. Officially it’s marketed as a four-door coupe and here in 63 AMG S guise, promises battleship-like firepower. How did the Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG S fare over a week’s test of its abilities?

Engine and Powerplant

It’s fair to assume that each time there’s a new AMG model in town, the primary focus is on its V8 engine and how much power it produces. Despite the 63 badge on its rear, this engine is not a 6.3-litre V8. The days of a naturally-aspirated big V8 are numbered and most manufacturers have gone the forced induction route. The CLS 63 makes do with a biturbo 5.5-litre V8 putting out 430 kW and 800 Nm. That’s a lot of grunt and Mercedes-Benz claims this four-door coupe will rocket to 100kph in just 4.1 seconds, which is supercar performance.

The reality is that when you dial in the race start function and set off, the rear-wheel drive only CLS 63 AMG S will battle to get traction, despite the large 19-inch 285/30 tyres at the back. Once traction is regained, the CLS 63 devours tarmac at a frightening rate of knots as it hurtles to its limited top speed of 250kph. There’s something to be said about the noise from this magnificent engine and as you hook the next gear, there’s an almighty thunderclap coming from the quad exhausts. Subtle is not a word to be used when driving an AMG product

Power from that mighty engine reaches the rear-wheels through the 7-speed twin-clutch transmission which also features steering-wheel mounted shift paddles. The car has many driving modes, but the only ones that really matter are Comfort and Sport+ . The default is Comfort and that optimises the car for day-to-day driving with suspension becoming softer and the engines sledgehammer abilities are temporarily neutered. Sport+ puts the CLS 63 into full hooligan mode and the car becomes a rocket. Fuel consumption is claimed at 9.9L/100km, but I find this extremely optimistic as a vehicle of this nature goes through a lot more unleaded in the real world. When given the boot, you can easily see the figures climb in the 14s.

Luxury and Gadgetry

Despite its light-speed performance, the Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG S can still deliver qualities that fans of the brand desire. The ride is firm, but not hard enough to be overtly sporty and you can manage this through the adaptive sports suspension settings. Build quality is exceptional and the car features some impressive technology. It is the design though which pleases me most. The CLS is simply beautiful to look at and even in AMG guise with its big wheels, gaping air intakes and battery of exhausts, the design is pure and sublime.

The classiness continues in the cabin where carbon fibre, wood and leather merge in a happy blend of luxury. All the cutting edge tech youd expect from a vehicle such as this comes fitted as standard. The seats are supportive and comfortable, and offer both heating and cooling functionality. Satellite navigation, Bluetooth, USB input, cruise control, auto wipers, auto headlamps, adaptive LED headlights are just some of the gadgetry youll get. This particular unit came with a terrific Bang and Olufsen sound system which was audio heaven.

Safety and Practicality

With such performance readily accessible, youd have to have some quality safety systems plugged in. There are no less than 9 airbags, ABS brakes with EBD, and the electronic stability systems will keep things in check. Expect the traction control to flash repeatedly if youre heavy footed with the accelerator pedal.

Its practical too, with the rear seats offering up sufficient legroom for passengers. Taller passengers will feel the sloping roof brush the top of their head thanks to the coupe-like sloping roofline. The boot size is commendable and theres room for at least two sets of golf clubs or numerous suitcases. Being a large and luxurious Mercedes, theres a convenient button which enables the boot to close automatically.

Verdict

The situation most potential CLS buyers would find themselves in is that theyd be keen on the AMG derivative model, but mindful of what its siblings can offer. Despite the sheer ferocity and visual presence of the 63 model, the CLS 500 offers 90% the ability of its performance brother. The CLS500 has a smoother 9-speed box, whichll be lighter on fuel too. Yes, it’s wonderful and effortlessly fast, but you can achieve the same effect with the lesser model.

If Mercedes-Benz SA were to offer the all-wheel drive 4Matic version of this AMG product, then I think it’d be a different story. As a halo, range-topping model the CLS 63 AMG S is outstanding, but in the real world its a little over the top. If youre not a Mercedes-Benz fan, both the BMW M6 Gran Coupe and Audi RS7 offer similar levels of addictive V8 power.

Second Opinion

Some cars have so much character that they can only be described by an outlandish comparison; in this case, the Merc is a warship on four wheels. It is almost impossibly low and sleek, subtle, but aggressive, yet oozes presence. Every moment happens against the backtrack of an angry, deep growl from the four tailpipes; and it’s hard not to smile constantly while you’re in it. At the same time, it manages to be a a luxury barge par excellence, with massage seats and fine materials everywhere.

However, it has one large problem, and that it is a victim of its own success. 430 kW from a biturbo V8 sent through the rear wheels sounds great in theory, but in practice it is terrifying, especially in the rain. The car breaks traction too easily and only the most confident of drivers will feel persuaded to push the car to its limits. I think Mercedes SA has missed a trick by not bringing the 4Matic version to our roads – it’s quicker and undoubtedly (feels) safer. – Ciro De Siena

Mercedes Benz CLS 63 AMG S Price in South Africa

The CLS 63 AMG S retails for R1 611 389 and that price includes a warranty of two-years/unlimited kilometres and a six-year maintenance plan with 100 000km. There’s a service interval indicator with services every 15 000km.

We Like: Supercar-like performance, sleek looks, brimming with technology & luxury

We dont Like: Needs 4Matic, expensive, CLS500 offers similar performance for much less money

Also consider: Audi RS7, BMW M6 Gran Coupe

Mercedes Benz CLS 63 AMG S Quick Specs

Update: Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport Concept Revealed

Following last week’s teaser, Volkswagen has now revealed the Golf GTI Clubsport at Wörthersee 2015.

Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport Details

The Volkswagen GTI Clubsport concept celebrates 40 years of Golf GTI goodness and a production version can be expected sometime in 2016 . The GTI Clubsport features revised bumpers that incorporate new air vents and there’s also a new roof spoiler and rear diffuser to aid aerodynamics. Fancy-looking 19-inch, 10-spoke alloy wheels complete the GTI Clubsport package. The production version however will be fitted with 18-inch examples and may feature a black roof with Oryx White body.

Powering this Golf GTI concept is a 2.0-litre turbo engine that will generate 195 kW and you can expect an overboost function too which will add an extra 10% power, just for fun, if only for a brief moment. In production form, the GTI Clubsport concept is expected to out perform the Golf GTI Performance by a significant margin.

The Volkswagen brand is doing a lot of work at the moment and this concept comes on the back of the news that the range-topping Golf R400 has been confirmed for production.

Have you seen our drag race videos? Watch the Volkswagen Golf R take on the Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG, and then the Golf R races a Subaru STI.

Mazda2 (2015) Review

How good is the 2025 Mazda2? Ashley Oldfield reviews the Mazda2 and shares insights on its performance, features, practicality and price. Check it out!

The Mazda2 has been a firm favourite across the globe, but has been in need of a replacement for a while now.

Thankfully as part of Mazda South Africa’s rebranding strategy we’ve seen a whole host of new and facelifted models make a welcome return to the market (read our Mazda6 review).

The Mazda2 has already won Car of the Year in Japan so there’s no doubting Mazda has put together a good product, but has it got the specification right for the South African market? We got to grips with it over the course of a week’s test.

Mazda2 Quick Specs

We Like: Fun factor, high revving engine and driving dynamics

We dislike: Interior materials are scratchy in places

Also try: Volkswagen Polo, Ford Fiesta, Hyundai i20, Renault Clio and Kia Rio.

New Stuff

It’s an all-new car for 2015 and Mazda has adopted a very different strategy to other manufacturers in the segment. Mazda has gone with a naturally-aspirated petrol engine that spearheads fun performance where everyone else in the segment seems to be focusing on economy.

The interior has a new infotainment system that’s controlled either by touch or by a rotary knob in the centre stack behind the gear lever. This sort of setup is usually reserved for premium German cars so that’s an impressive upgrade Mazda has managed to implement across the range. Styling has obviously changed and the Mazda2 looks quite athletic and sporty for a B-segment hatchback.

What engine powers the Mazda2?

Our petrol unit in the Dynamic spec Mazda2 is an 82 kW, 145 Nm 1.5-Litre engine. The petrol engine claims 5.5L/100km, but over the week we had it on test we saw 7.1L/100km, but there’s a reason for that. The naturally aspirated engine loves to be revved and rewards you with excellent performance when you drive spiritedly.

Unfortunately, that has a negative effect on fuel consumption. It’s a fun engine combined with a smooth shifting six-speed gearbox that will sprint to 100kph in a claimed 8.7 seconds. That’s miles quicker than any other car in this segment, cementing Mazda’s plan to offer exciting cars to the public. Those performance figures make the Mazda2 the fastest accelerating car in South Africa for under 200k.

Interior

The Dynamic spec model we have here is essentially a bottom-to-mid-spec Mazda2, but as mentioned it still comes with the seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The system is easy to use and intuitive, and it also has all the modern-day amenities such as Bluetooth, USB and an Aux jack. On the styling side the Mazda2 interior is smart, it’s bathed in black with soft touch materials, but there is the odd bit of nasty black plastic. The centre console in particular degrades the interior and doesn’t feel particularly solid. Overall though, it’s impressive and space inside is excellent, especially for rear passengers who have a healthy amount of legroom.

Safety wise the Mazda2 covers all the essentials with things like ABS, EBD and Brake Assist as standard features. It’s also equipped with driver and passenger airbags. Further up the range there are more airbags available as well as stability control.

Ride and Drive

This is the section where Mazda aims to please and the Mazda2 does it in a unique way. You feel when you start to push the Mazda2 that it was built to be entertaining to drive, a driver’s car. Its high-revving engine also accentuates the experience.

Send it through a few switchbacks, or sharp bends and the Mazda2 absolutely loves it. You can really push on and derive a lot of pleasure from the driving experience. The ride is a bit stiff, so potholes and harsh bumps in the road tend to crash into the cabin, but it’s not something you can’t live with. The steering is decent too and feels well-weighted, providing good feel for what’s happening underneath you.

Verdict

The Mazda2 showcases a different take on what a small hatchback can be. It’s fun to drive like no other in the segment and its naturally aspirated, high-revving engine adds to the fun factor. The interior is modern and well equipped with most of the latest technologies we’ve come to expect in a modern city runabout.

There are some small iffy questions about a few of the materials used in the cabin, but nothing to be overly concerned about. If you’re looking for a B-segment hatch, that’s a little cheeky and more than just an A to B shuffler then the Mazda2 will be right up your street, and the best news is that it’s well priced, too.

Mazda2 Price in South Africa

*Note that 2015 pricing is shown here. See the latest Mazda2 pricing here.

The 2015 Mazda2 comes in for as little as R188 000. Our test unit here costs R199 900 and has just about everything you need. If you want a few more interior features and some nice wheels then you can step up to the Individual range that starts at R211 400. Top-of-the-range is the 1.5 Hazumi turbodiesel model that’s a bit more expensive at R259 900.

Buy a used Mazda2 on Cars.co.za

Second Opinion

The Mazda2 is Mazda at its best. It’s a small car packed with big car features at a price that undercuts its key rivals. The infotainment system on the Dynamic model is a highlight and in terms of performance, the naturally aspirated engine is perky, with fun handling to match. The downsides are few, but odd nonetheless; you can’t have park distance control or leather seats at all, even if you want to pay for them. However between this and the Ford Fiesta, its my pick of the segment.– Ciro De Siena

Buying Advice: New Mazda2 (Video)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Mazda2 still sold new in South Africa?

Yes, the Mazda2 is still sold new in South Africa. The facelifted model was launched locally in 2023 with an updated design and a streamlined model lineup.

What engine is in the South African Mazda2?

All models of the Mazda2 in South Africa are powered by a 1.5-litre, naturally aspirated petrol engine that delivers 85 kW and 148 Nm of torque. This engine is paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.

What is the safety rating of the Mazda2?

The Mazda2 has a 4-star Global NCAP safety rating for adult occupant protection and a 3-star rating for child occupant protection. The car comes with standard safety features like driver and passenger airbags, ABS with EBD, and stability control.

What are the main competitors of the Mazda2 in South Africa?

The Mazda2 competes in the B-segment hatchback market against rivals such as the Volkswagen Polo, Toyota Yaris, and Suzuki Swift. It is often praised for its upmarket feel and stylish design.

Buying Advice: New Mazda2 (Video)

The segment in which the Mazda2 does battle is easily one of the most hotly contested in South Africa. Mazda will surely have taken a long hard look at the strong competition in the form of the venerable VW Polo, Ford Fiesta, Kia Rio, Hyundai i20, Opel Corsa, Suzuki Swift, Renault Clio, Peugeot 208 and Toyota Yaris a long list indeed and Ive probably not named them all.

And even so, the Mazda2 is an exceptionally strong offering. Building on the title of 2014 Japanese Car of the Year, Mazda South Africa has specced a line-up that starts at R188 000. But for just R11 000 more, the Dynamic model comes fully loaded with just about every feature you could hope for in a small car.

The touchscreen infotainment system is top notch and overall the interior feels modern and upmarket, except for the aircon controls which, seem to have been borrowed from an old bakkie. However if you want leather seats and park distance control, you cant have either. Even if you want to pay extra.

The Mazda2 is very different in one way however it uses an engine that doesnt have a turbo. Yes, this is a small car which is naturally aspirated, and while it may not offer the headline fuel efficiency figures of its rivals, in reality it is a pleasure to drive and averages much the same real world fuel consumption figures.

Its also arguable that an engine that isnt force fed will last longer and suffer less complications than a small, turbocharged powerplant. While data to back up this assumption is hard to come by, a naturally aspirated engine simply has less stuff to break.

In this video, weve taken an in depth look at the Mazda2 Dynamic model, and compared it to two of its rivals, the Renault Clio Dynamique and the Volkswagen Polo 1.2TSI Comfortline. Both these cars were chosen as they rival the Mazda as close as possible, spec for spec.

For a detailed comparison of all three: click here

Interested in a new Mazda 2?

Interested in a new VW Polo?

Interested in a new Renault Clio?

	Mazda2 1.5 Dynamic (M)	Renault Clio 66kw turbo Dynamique
Price	R199 000	R219 900
Engine	1.5 litre 4-cyl naturally aspirated	0.9 litre 3-cyl turbo petrol
Power	82 kW	66 kW
Torque	145 Nm	135 Nm
Fuel economy	5.5L/100km	4.5L/100km
0 100km/h	8.7 seconds	12.2 seconds
Top speed	188kph	182kph

	Mazda2 1.5 Dynamic (M)	VW Polo 1.2TSI Comfortline
Price	R199 000	R223 700
Engine	1.5 litre 4-cyl naturally aspirated	1.2 litre 4-cyl turbo petrol
Power	82 kW	66 kW
Torque	145 Nm	160 Nm
Fuel economy	5.5L/100km	4.9L/100km
0 100km/h	8.7 seconds	10.8 seconds
Top speed	188kph	184kph

Mazda2 Video Review

Audi A1 (2015) First Drive

A new week, a new Audi… That was a reality not too long ago. Seemingly nothing could stop the German brand from pumping out new models and niche cars to suit all sorts of tastes. Thankfully perhaps, the somewhat frenetic pace has calmed down and Audi is currently focusing on a core group of models that is lead by the A1. We attended the launch of the facelifted A1 in Johannesburg to get the lowdown on the updated hatchback.

Whats new for the facelift?

Its a minor exterior update that is mostly restricted to revised rectangular fog lights at the front and a new bumper. The rear has new light clusters and there are three new paint colours to choose from. The range now has a new lineup of engines. Even the carry over power units have been developed further to be more efficient and more powerful. The S-Tronic double-clutch gearbox is also now available on all models (except the S1) and theres a three-cylinder one-litre model to start off the new range. With the A1 competing in the so-called boutique end of the market, it is also important to note that Audi claims there are up to 250 000 different combinations of trim and colours to choose from on your A1.

New Engine Range

This is the debut of the three-cylinder petrol engine from Audi and the A1 gets to be the guinea pig. At 1-Litre in capacity and boosted with a turbocharger, the engine pushes out 70 kW and 160 Nm. It feels strong and with the manual five-speed gearbox is quite fun to drive. In fact, its so good it puts the 1.4 in the shade. The 1.4 is up to 92 kW now with 200 Nm of torque.

We drove this with the S-Tronic box which maybe took a bit away from the bottom end grunt that was more evident in the 1-Litre manual. The new 1.8 TFSI engine has been transplanted from the VW Polo GTI and dropped into the A1 with 141 kW and 250 Nm of torque. This engine really shows off the sportiness of the A1 and its taut chassis. Topping off the range is the S1s engine that we drove back in December 2014 with its mad 170 kW and 370 Nm.

Whats it like to drive?

The A1 is firm and sporty. It particularly likes smooth roads, but deals with the odd bump reasonably well. Theres good grip and feel from the chassis, but the all-new electric steering makes it feel a bit disconnected from the wheels. The system adapts the weight of the steering wheel depending on the speed youre travelling, so it gets heavier the faster you go. It saves a bit on fuel in the long run, but I do miss the old, pure mechanical systems. Still, wind the Audi A1 through some bends and its a good handler, with the firm ride and stiff suspension setup coming to the fore when its time to play.

Audi A1 Pricing

Audi has simultaneously released both the three-door and Sportback versions (five-door) in South Africa. When picking competitors you would definitely want to consider Mini and at the bottom end maybe even the new Opel Adam. Pricing for the 1-Litre A1 starts at R265 000 and climbs up to R390 000 for a 1.8T FSI Sportback with S-Tronic. The S1 is priced at R452 500 for the three-door and R460 000 for the S1 Sportback.

Audi A1 Price in South Africa

Mazda6 (2015) Review

With demand for premium sedans waning in South Africa, how much merit is there in considering the Mazda6? We investigate…

If you’re looking for a used Mazda6, this review will help you make an informed buying decision.

We Like: Good looks, spacious interior, build quality, dynamic ability

We don’t Like: Sombre cabin, ‘slurry’ transmission

Also consider: Ford Fusion, Volvo S60, Honda Accord

Mazda6 2.5 Individual Automatic Quick Specs

The combined popularity of SUVs and premium sedans has really all but destroyed the market for large family sedans with non-premium brand badges on the nose, despite considerable activity in this small segment (by volume) in the past 12 months.

Honda has a (relatively) new Accord, Ford has the new Fusion and then there’s the subject of this test, the rather pretty Mazda6. Soon, there will also be a new version of the Volkswagen Passat. On the other hand, Kia has given up on the attractive Optima and Suzuki’s Kizashi could soon be a ‘special order’ model. Does the Mazda6 have what it takes to not only survive, but possibly thrive?

Mazda6 has a handsome design

Where the Mazda6 immediately strikes a blow against its rivals is in the design department — it is a very handsome car that is unlikely to date fast. Riding on striking 19-inch wheels and boasting beautifully balanced body contouring, as well as eye-catching daylight running lamps, it makes most of its rivals look fuddy-duddy.

The good looks hide a structure that is very stiff and impressively light — it weighs less than 1.5 tonnes. Consequently the Mazda6 never feels as large as it really is, and with a wheelbase of 2 830 mm it certainly is sizeable. The cabin is, however, not quite as aesthetically pleasing as the exterior. There’s an abundance of sombre black trim and the facia itself appears a trifle dated. Nevertheless, fit and finish is as good as anything from the Germans.

We took the Mazda6 on a 1 000 km journey to test it in what should be its preferred environment — the open road and loaded with a family of four and all their holiday paraphernalia. Surprisingly the Mazda’s boot coped with what was demanded of it, including swallowing a bulky three-wheel urban stroller pram. Rear passengers had precious little to complain about, seeing as legroom (and headroom) is generous — again significantly up on what you’d get in a similarly priced German offering.

While cruising on the open road the Mazda impressed with its low levels of wind and road noise. It is clear that NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) control was a high priority during this car’s development.

No shortage of features

As mentioned before, the Mazda6’s cabin appears slightly dated at first glance — the control interface is cluttered by modern standards and the info-tainment screens displays are not quite as logically structured and as crisp as in some rivals. That said, you’re unlikely to find yourself being uncomfortable in this particular derivative, as it is loaded with features.

Individual specification includes dual-zone climate control, a powerful 11-speaker sound system with AUX and USB support, Bluetooth, cruise control, a reverse camera and a sunroof, among many other items. On the safety side of things the Mazda6 Individual is also a full-house offering, with front, side and curtain airbags, ABS/EBD and DSC (dynamic stability control). Surprisingly, even features such as BSM (blind spot monitoring) and LDW (lane departure warning) are present.

Real-world economy suffers

In these days of downsizing and turbocharging, it is a surprise to find a big 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine under the bonnet. It is, however, a fairly modern engine that boasts Mazdas SkyActiv technologies, including direct injection and low-friction internals. Mazda claims a combined cycle economy figure of 6.6 L/100 km, but in reality this is very difficult to achieve. A more realistic figure is around 8.5 L/100 km.

Coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission, the Mazda6 2.5 delivers a smooth, relaxing drive, but still with a decent amount of power underfoot when needed. Maximum power is 138 kW at 5 700 rpm, and 250 Nm of torque is available from 3 500 rpm. Mazda has not released claimed performance figures, but this model should accelerate to 100 kph in around 9 seconds and reach a top speed of just over 210 kph certainly good enough. Overtaking power is also good, but the transmission does take a while to access that power, which can be frustrating. This is a consequence of the Mazda simply not being able to match the low-rev responsiveness of its turbocharged rivals.

Dynamic drive

Mazda has often been called the ‘BMW from the East’, due to the brand’s emphasis on delivering thrilling driving dynamics. Among the big sedans in the South African market, the ‘6’ certainly appears to be the segment leader in this regard. The stiff structure provides an excellent starting point, and then there’s also a sophisticated multi-link rear suspension and beautifully weighted electrically assisted power steering.

The ride is on the firm side, but it’s also supple enough to iron out major bumps. Body roll is well controlled in the corners and there’s a very pleasant accuracy and overall feel to the steering. If you’re buying a big sedan, but do not want to compromise on driving enjoyment, the Mazda6 represents a very solid choice.

Conclusion and Summary

When debating the merits of buying a big sedan among the Cars.co.za team, the theory was that a sedan is still preferable to a SUV if the buyer wanted to broadcast an image of ‘executive’ success and, to a lesser degree, because of its driving dynamics. On the other hand, Mazda’s own SUV, the very capable CX-5, sells for almost exactly the same money and with the same engine, too!

Ultimately, of course, the SUV offers greater practicality and versatility. So it’s easy to see why so many people are making the switch to SUVs and crossovers. Still, if it must be a sedan, for whichever reason, the Mazda6 is a very attractive offering, with arguably class-leading dynamics and standard specification, and an excellent combo of quality and practicality.

Compare the Mazda6 with its competitors here!

Second Opinion

Dynamically the Mazda6 is fun to drive with a strong naturally-aspirated engine, but it is let down by a sloppy gearbox. The interior is a bit bland, but certainly well-specced and it feels well-built. – Ashley Oldfield

Mazda6 – Price in South Africa (2015)

The Mazda6 2,5 Individual Automatic costs R399 900 and comes with a three-year/unlimited km warranty, three-year service plan and three-year roadside assistance.

Buy a Mazda6 on Cars.co.za

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Mazda6 still sold new in South Africa?

No, the Mazda6 has been discontinued in South Africa. It is no longer sold as a new vehicle and is only available on the pre-owned market. It was replaced by the Mazda CX-5 and CX-60 as Mazda shifted its focus to the SUV segment.

What engines were available in the Mazda6 in South Africa?

The Mazda6 was primarily sold in South Africa with a 2.5-litre, naturally aspirated Skyactiv-G petrol engine. In some model years, a 2.0-litre petrol engine and a 2.2-litre turbodiesel were also available.

What is the safety rating of the Mazda6?

The Mazda6 has an excellent safety record, earning a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating. It was praised for its strong performance in crash tests and was equipped with a range of i-Activsense safety features in higher-end models, including Blind Spot Monitoring and Smart City Brake Support.

Is the Mazda6 a good used car to buy in South Africa?

The Mazda6 is considered a great option on the used car market. It is known for its reliability, premium interior, and stylish design. With its robust engines and high safety ratings, it provides a compelling value proposition as a pre-owned executive sedan.

New Volkswagen Engine Range Revealed

Volkswagen has used the International Vienna Motor Symposium to introduce new engines as well as highlight the future of mobility.

According to Volkswagen, reducing CO2 emissions, elecro-mobility and digitalistation are the main challenges facing the automotive industry. In terms of engine technology, Volkswagen maintains that the optimisation of the internal combustion engine is still hugely important and that highly efficient TDI and TSI / TFSI engines coupled with DSG will remain at the forefront.

New Engine Range

Dr. Heinz-Jakob Neußer, Member of the Board of Management for the Volkswagen brand, highlighted a new 1.0-litre 3-cylinder TSI engine based on the EA211 engine, sharing genes with the Polo WRC engine, and offering 200 kW and 270 Nm of torque with the use of a monoscroll turbocharger and e-booster.

Volkswagen also showed a new 2.0-litre TDI EU6 engine which will do service in light-duty vehicles such as the new Transporter and Multivan with a 14% average reduction in fuel consumption. Four engines will provide power from 62 kW to 150 kW with a torque range of between 220 Nm and 450 Nm.

The next generation 6.0-litre W12 TSI was also showcased for premium models for Volkswagen, Audi and Bentley. The new W12 engine offers 447 kW with a maximum torque figure of 900 Nm and is considered to be the most efficient 12-cylinder engine in the luxury car segment. Depending on the model in which this engine is used, acceleration to 100 kph takes less than four seconds and speeds in excess of 300 kph can be achieved.

April 2015 Highlights in Numbers – Infographic

April 2015 was yet another exciting month in terms of new car launches in South Africa. The month kicked off with the introduction of the spacious Volkswagen Golf Sportvan (SV) to the South African market. Volkswagen then launched the third-generation Polo GTI fitted with a 1.8-litre turbo with 141 kW and 250 Nm on offer. Chevrolet joined the launch party with the revised Cruze sedan and hatchback which brings higher levels of refinement to take the fight to the Toyota Corolla. Audi launched the A6 and A7 Sportback and its accompanying S-derivatives which should put smiles on the faces of Audi fans. Citroen also took the opportunity to bring the rather interesting looking, yet versatile, C4 Cactus to the market.

On the sales front, Toyota came out on top as South Africa’s top selling car brand while the Ford Ranger topped the sales charts to take top spot as South Africa’s most popular vehicle. In our readers choice – yes, that’s you – it came to light that the Mercedes-Benz C-Class was considered to be the best premium sedan offering in South Africa while the MINI Cooper was rated as the best city car on offer in Mzansi. Take a look at our Highlights in Numbers Infographic below for the full recap!

Highlights in Numbers – April 2015

Drag Race: BMW X6M50d vs Range Rover Sport SDV8

Last year, we launched an epic drag race which seemed to annoy many, many people. It featured BMWs most powerful diesel-engined car ever, the X5 M50d, in a quarter mile sprint against the rather bonkers Range Rover Sport V8 Supercharged petrol.

Those cars have exactly the same claimed 0 100km/h time of 5.3 seconds, and even though the Rangie has a lot more power than the X5, the Beemer has plenty more torque and most importantly, launch control.

It was incredibly close, but this saga was never going to end with one race. Its time to line up diesel against diesel, and we have the most powerful version of each brands car lined up for another epic head-to-head sprint.

The BMW X6 M50d is perhaps too niche to be considered real competition for the Range Rover Sport. But, it runs the same platform and engine as the X5: a triple turbo, 6-cylinder diesel with 280kW and a huge 740Nm of torque, with a kerb weight of 2150kg.

The Range Rover Sport SDV8 HSE packs a 4.4 litre V8 turbocharged diesel motor with 250kW and the exact same torque figure of 740Nm. However it is 248kg heavier, with a kerb weight of 2398kg – must be all the televisions in there! Or maybe the military grade 4×4 drivetrain.

With those stats in mind we lined up these shiny premium SUV champions, in very unfamiliar territory: the quarter mile drag strip at Cape Towns Killarney Raceway.

Spec sheet: BMW X6M50d vs Range Rover Sport SDV8 HSE

	BMW X6M50d	Range Rover Sport SDV8 HSE
Price	R1 332 540	R1 497 083
Engine	3.0 6-cyl triple turbo diesel	4.4 litre V8 turbo diesel
Power	280kW	250kW
Torque	740Nm	740Nm
Acceleration	5.2 seconds	6.9 seconds
Top Speed	250km/h	210km/h
Fuel economy	6.6 litres/100km	8.7 litres/100km

Toyota Etios Gets Revamped Interior

Toyota has steadily been enhancing and improving the Etios in order to make it a more attractive offering to the South African public. This latest change sees minor exterior modifications, but vast updates to the interior.

Exterior enhancements are limited to a new colour option, Jet Grey Metallic (a shimmery mid-tone silver). Indoors is where the most discernible changes have taken place and theres all-new anthracite seat fabric for the Xs models.

In addition, a new audio system has been adopted for Etios (standard on Xs). This factory fitted double-din unit features Bluetooth functionality and is integrated into the dashboard.

The luggage compartment cover now features a lift function on all hatchback models.

Toyota Etios Updates

Updates for the Toyota Etios include:

A new grille design
Colour-coding across the range for door mirrors and handles
A new aero-design exterior mirror featuring aero stabilising fins
A new tail lamp design
Re-profiled front and rear seat design with adjustable headrests for Xs models
Auto-Up electric window function on the drivers door
Redesigned central instrument cluster with Ice Blue backlighting, enlarged LCD display and digital clock the latter is on Xs models only.
Lights-on warning as well as seat belt and door ajar warning buzzers (Xs).
Improved NVH package which included a switch from rubber engine mounts to more refined, sound-absorbing hydraulic mounts. The silencer was also modified for enhanced insulation and the damper settings were adjusted to filter out suspension noise and improve ride quality.
Improved carpet quality for the luggage compartment.
Luggage cover with lift function.
All-new tailored upholstery trim for Xs models.

The latest refresher has resulted in a R100 price hike across the range.

Toyota Etios Revised Pricing in South Africa

Toyota Etios 1.5 HB Xi – R134 500

Toyota Etios 1.5 HB Xs – R143 600

Toyota Etios 1.5 SD Xi – R141 100

Toyota Etios 1.5 SD Xs – R150 000

Toyota Etios Cross – R164 700

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