Mercedes-Benz Confirms Maybach S-Class to Debut in LA
New details about the Maybach S-Class have come to light, with the model scheduled to debut at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show next month.
Mercedes to sell range-topping Maybach S-Class
These on-going reports about the extra-long S-Class with the “Maybach” badge were confirmed by the companys head of global design Gordon Wagener.
Speaking to Car and Driver, Wagener said the car will be about 5500 mm long, meaning it will sit nicely between the current S550 and the previous Maybach 57. He said that they had to work to get the proportions right in the C-pillar, but it will still look very much like an S-Class. Power is expected to come from a turbocharged V12 engine which will send all the power to the rear wheels with the advanced Magic Body Control system.
Wagener further described the Maybach S-Class as being the embodiment of automotive “haute couture” and he also confirmed that “Maybach” will be treated as a sub-brand of Mercedes-Benz, similar to the AMG line. This additionally means that there will be future versions badged with the Maybach name.
More details will be revealed when the model bows down at the LA Auto Show in November 2014.
BMW M4 Convertible Advert Banned
The BMW M4 Convertible advert aired in the UK has been banned after it was believed to have solicited unsafe driving and was socially irresponsible.
The advert shows the alternate lifestyles an M4 convertible owner can adapt to, either cruising the country hills or suiting up for the racetrack. The Advertising Standards Authority in the UK claim that the scenes look too similar saying that we considered that in some shots it was unclear as to which setting was being shown. Although we acknowledged the capability of a car could be demonstrated in a track setting if it was obviously not in use as a public highway, we considered that the editing of the ad blurred the distinction between track and road.’
BMWs response was to the contrary and stated the advert differentiated clearly between the sedate cruising of one M4 on public roads, where the Highway Code was obeyed at all times, and the on-track element. The sections of the ad featuring the car on a race track were clearly differentiated through the red curbs on the closed track and the driver in protective clothing, including a full-face helmet.
Take a look at the video below of the M4 Convertible and decide for yourself whether you think it should have been banned or if it is just another case of nannying.
Banned BMW M4 Convertible Video
Opel Mokka Has 300 000 Confirmed Orders So Far
Opel is in a good place right now. Thanks primarily to a few new products such as the new Corsa, Opel Adam and the Opel Mokka, the brand which was once on the brink of a near-death experience, is currently doing well in 2014.
Opel Mokka Proving Popular
Speaking of Opel Mokka, General Motors is reporting the pint-sized compact SUV has 300 000 orders to date, with the last 100 000 recorded in the last seven months. That equates to over 14 200 Mokkas each month. In comparison, South Africa’s top-selling car is the Volkswagen Polo Vivo and that does over 2 000 units a month. For the month of August 2014, the Opel Mokka was the most popular car in its segment and is the third most sold car sold with an Opel badge.
The Mokka interprets our definition of an exciting model with ultra-modern technology at affordable prices perfectly, said Peter Christian Küspert, Vice President Sales & Aftersales Opel Group. We are delighted with our bestseller amongst the compact SUVs. It is a guarantee for success and an important part of our model offensive. Next, it will be available with the 1.6 CDTI diesel. That will definitely give the Mokka even more momentum, he added.
Volkswagen South Africa has added the Cross Caddy and Kombi T5 DSG to their existing ranges as additional offerings to strengthen the products. The Cross Caddy adds some style and character to the Caddy, whilst the Kombi is now available with a DSG (double clutch gearbox) in short wheelbase form.
Cross Caddy
The Cross Caddy joins the Cross family that now consists of it and the Cross Polo. The exterior style bits such as the 17-inch Canyon wheels, black trimmings on the wheel housing and side skirts, silver roof rails and privacy glass for the rear windows help add a bit of ruggedness to the otherwise utilitarian look of the Caddy. The recreational look does not come with any off road credentials though as the Caddy remains only front-wheel drive.
The only engine available for the Cross Caddy is the 2-litre turbodiesel model with 81 kW and 250 Nm. The engine is connected to a five-speed manual that feels nice and like and distinctly like a Polo shift. The combination works well, but dont expect any fireworks in terms of acceleration, what you want to do is use the healthy torque figure to shove you through the gears and keep the fuel consumption figure nice and low. VW claim the Cross Caddy will consume just 5.7L/100km on a combined run.
The interior has been spiced up to feel a bit more like a funky holiday van. The door panel trim is colour coded to the exterior and the seats also incorporate a two-tone design. We drove a particularly interesting Viper Green model, which is a carry-over colour from the Scirocco coupe. The other new colour to the range is Honey Orange. The Cross Caddy is also a great place to play hide-and-seek as there are up 24 hiding places around the car to hide things or store them if youre not into playing. Standard features for the Cross Caddy include Bluetooth, rain-sensing wipers, hill-hold assist and cruise control. There is also the option to upgrade to a seven-seater model from the standard five-seater.
Kombi Short Wheelbase (SWB) DSG
The Kombi SWB is now offered with VWs seven-speed DSG gearbox. Thats attached to the top-of-the-range two-litre turbodiesel with 103 kW and 340 Nm of torque with fuel economy claimed at 8L/100km. The Kombi seats eight people easily with a bit of room for luggage at the back which can be stacked pretty much up to the roof. Comfort is the focus though as air-conditioning is sent to all parts of the van making sure everyone is cooled adequately. There are shade-netting styled blinds on the windows as well if you feel the sun is bothering you too much.
The Kombi chugs along fairly well although light steering around the centre and high driving position can make it feel a bit floaty at higher speeds. You also have to be aware that you’re in a large vehicle when turning at intersections and parking spots as if youre not careful, you can catch the rear on all sorts of objects unintentionally.
The DSG makes life in the Volksie Bus particularly easy, I remember the old Kombis with their extremely long-throw gearboxes that were a pain to use. The DSG box just gets the job done swiftly and painlessly and feels like a civilised way to shuttle eight people around.
VW Cross Caddy Pricing:
Cross Caddy 2.0 TDI 81 kW R340 600
VW Kombi T5 DSG Pricing:
Kombi 2.0 TDI 103kW DSG Trendline SWB R474 300
Kombi 2.0 TDI 103kW DSG Comfortline SWB R536 500
Kombi 2.0 TDI 103kW DSG LWB R544 500
McLaren P1 Breaks Kyalami Lap Record (Video)
To coincide with the launch of the Pure McLaren owner’s experience, McLaren UK brought chief test driver Chris Goodwin to SA in an effort to try set a new track record for a production car.
McLaren P1 lap time
The current record was held also by a McLaren, the MP4-12C, at 1min 48. The P1 is significantly faster than both the 650S and the MP4-12C and everyone just had the feeling that record was going to come tumbling down. It was just a question of how much the gap would be.
The McLaren P1 uses a similar engine to the MP4-12C. While both engines are identical in size at 3.8-litres, the P1 uses an electric motor with an F1-style Kinetic Energy Recovery System to give it a combined output of 674 kW – substantially more than the MP4-12C. Given the massive power advantage and clever aerodynamics, the P1 slipped over the line in 1min 45 – three seconds faster than the normal car.
Could it have gone faster? Probably. The weather wasn’t perfect and the car was on road tyres. A set of slick race tyres and I rate the P1 could dip under 1min 40…
As for the day itself, it was a chance for Gauteng-based McLaren owners to really experience their machines under the guidance of professional drivers. It was exciting to finally get some face time with the McLaren P1, but as cool as it is, the McLaren F1 from the early 1990s stole the show when it pulled in.
McLaren P1 video
BMW Celebrates 15 Years Of X5
BMW is celebrating 15 successful years of the X5 by taking a look back at the popular model.
BMW X5 Popularity
Described as a “unique success story,” the X5 was first introduced in 1999 to compete with the Mercedes M-Class that was launched two years earlier. Over the years, the X5 has turned out to be so popular that the company has built nearly 620 000 units of the first-generation.
That success was followed by the development of a range of other BMW X models including the X1, X3, X4 and X6. Those models have also been successful in their own rights as BMW has sold more than 3.3 million X models worldwide, with almost a third of all BMWs sold today being an X model.
To further extend the X range, BMW has confirmed a 2017 X7 is on the way and that it will be “exceptionally large and luxurious.”
Renault South Africa is a car company that’s going places. Instead of just sitting back and resting on its laurels, the brand’s actively touting for sales, and has a number of products in its arsenal that are all selling in decent numbers. The Renault Clio 4, Sandero range and the Duster are selling well and the brand is in a great position.
The Renault Megane is one of the brand’s traditional models and it recently had a facelift and the range was adjusted. We were at the launch and came away feeling good about the Megane. Not long after that, we spent a week with the RenaultSport wannabe Megane GT in five-door trim and a business trip to JHB saw me drive a 1.2 Megane GT Line coupe for the week.
Brilliant 1.2-litre engine
If you’re thinking a 1.2-litre engine is hopeless, then you’re very much mistaken. See, the French know a thing or two about making a decent powerplant and this H5FT engine in the GT Line is seriously good. Figures wise, you’re looking at 97 kW and 205 Nm. I can remember the days when some 2.0-litre engines had this amount of power. In fact, the outgoing GT Line had a 1.4-litre turbo and that had 96 kW and 190 Nm, which shows you how far downsized, turbocharged engines have come.
Aside from the torque which makes overtaking simple, the fuel economy is to be commended. Renault claims 5.4L/100km, but in reality you’re looking at 6L/100km – still impressive for something that’s marketed as a sporty coupe.
Features and Specification galore
Standard specification is where the Renault Megane GT Line will please you. For a model costing under R300 000, it’s well equipped and the French aren’t fans of options. You get integrated satnav with TomTom LIVE services (traffic updates, accident warnings and speed camera alerts), radio Mp3/CD player with USB/Aux inputs, Bluetooth connectivity with hands-free telephone, dual-zone climate control, rear parking sensors, automatic wipers, cruise control with speed limiter, and comprehensive trip computer.
In terms of safety, there’s six airbags, stability control (which can’t be turned off completely as it re-engages at around 50km/h) as well as potent ABS brakes.
How does it drive?
The Renault Megane 1.2 GT Line in coupe form is a pleasant drive. While it may not have that premium feel of, say a Golf 7, the Megane feels inherently more sporty as it has a firmer ride. The six-speed gearbox is solid and has a positive feel, and the engine is just superb. The car comfortably cruises at the national highway speed limit and when called upon, can deliver credible overtaking ability. It’s just so smooth and there’s a very subtle noise from the tiny turbo as the revs build.
Throw some corners into the mix and the Renault Megane GT Line delivers some smiles. It’s meant to be a little sporty and it acquits itself well. While it’s no RenaultSport, you get the feeling that there’s some fun to be had and you don’t need to wring the car’s neck to find it. The suspension is sporty, but still decent enough to be a comfortable daily driver.
Conclusion and summary
So, should you take a Renault Megane GT Line over its rivals? The Volkswagen Golf 7 will always be the sensible choice in this segment, but that sensibility comes at a higher price tag plus you’ll have to pay extra for the niceties that the Megane has standard. If you’re not a fan of a two-door coupe, you can opt for the five-door hatchback for the same price. Despite only having two doors, the back isn’t as cramped as you’d think, and the boot offers generous depth.
Gripes? Well I have a few. The satnav/infotainment interface is not the easiest to use the first few times and it does take a while to familiarise yourself with it. As an owner, you’ll be fine after the first month. The famous Renault card key is still around and it’s just silly. If the Koreans can make neat and practical key fobs, why can’t the French? The seats are sporty and well bolstered, but perhaps a little tight fitting. Anyone who is a little fuller figured may find them intrusive and uncomfortable.
Overall, the Renault Megane 1.2 GT Line makes a good case for itself and thanks to that superb engine, I’d choose it over the faster, pricier GT 220 we drove not so long ago.
Renault Megane 1.2 GT Line quick specs
Price
R284 900
Engine
1.2-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol
Power
97 kW
Torque
205 Nm
Transmission
Six-speed manual
Wheels
17-inch alloys
0-100km/h
9.7 seconds (claimed)
Fuel economy
5.4L/100 km (claimed)
We like:
. One of the best engines, ever.
. Generous specification
. Attractive front end
. Good ride
. Well priced
We dislike:
. Infotainment / Satnav not very intuitive for first-time users
. Seats are very sporty and may not suit everyone
The Volkswagen Fox Pepper concept has been unveiled ahead of its scheduled Sao Paulo Auto Show debut.
Volkswagen Fox Pepper Concept enhanced with sporty features
Described as “sporty and youthful,” the Volkswagen Fox Pepper concept comes with A Red Tornado exterior, along with a special front bumper and plastic body cladding. The model also comes with honeycomb grille inserts, a black roof and 15-inch alloy wheels.
Volkswagen is yet to release images of the cars interior, but it has mentioned that the cabin will feature two-tone leather seats, red air vents and “Fox Pepper” badging. There will also be an infotainment system which will work on a 5.5-inch display with GPS navigation.
Power is said to come from a 1.6-litre engine rated at 89 kW when running on ethanol. This setup will enable the model to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in as little 9.8 seconds before reaching a top speed of 189 km/h.
500000th Audi A1 Built
Despite the fact that the automotive media was very sceptical on the progression of the Audi A1 and how it got off to a slow start, the company has announced the 500000th Audi A1 model has rolled off the assembly line in Brussels proving much success for the car.
Four years later and exactly on the half a million mark, the 500000th Audi A1 to roll of the line to a customer in Germany, was a regular three-door model adorned in Misano red exterior and boasting VWs 1.4-litre TSFI engine.
Audi A1 facts
Besides announcing the half a million production milestone, Audi has shared a number of facts about the A1.
According to the companys research, Germany is their biggest market, followed closely by the UK and France. The company also says 80% of buyers are new to the brand and 69% buy an A1 with a manual transmission.
Their most popular colour is white, with 34% of buyers having opted for it. In addition, 31% of A1 owners have the more expensive S tronic 7-speed twin-clutch automatic a huge percentage for such a small car.
Suzuki Jimny Now Offered In Automatic Transmission
Suzuki Auto South Africa has updated both the exterior and interior of the iconic Jimny adding to the mix an equipment upgrade along with an automatic transmission as an option for the first time.
Suzuki Jimny design upgrades
Visually, the Suzuki Jimny now comes with new 15-inch alloy wheels finished in dark silver, as well as two new exterior colours: Bison Brown and Khaki Pearl Metallic.
Interior changes include an all-new instrument cluster boasting main dials for speed and rev count, and a digital display. Theres also a new steering wheel design and new material for the seats.
Additional standard features include remote central locking, a CD receiver sound system, electric windows and air conditioning, while safety features include dual front airbags, head restraints, inertia reel seatbelts, and ABS anti-lock brakes.
New automatic transmission
Mechanical specifications remain the same, except the addition of a four-speed automatic transmission, which the company says will offer customers the convenience of clutchless operation, especially in urban traffic conditions, while also making access to the Jimnys legendary off-road capability even easier.
In addition, the automatic transmission is partnered by a transfer case offering low-range operation for almost unstoppable traversability over the roughest and most challenging terrain.
Suzuki Jimny price in South Africa
Suzuki Jimny 1.3 Automatic R234 900
The automatic transmission-equipped Jimny is covered by a three-year/100 000 km warranty, as well as a four-year/60 000 km service plan.
