350-million vehicles for Ford

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Ford Motor Company is celebrating its 350 millionth vehicle today which happens to be the Ford Focus, the world’s top selling car so far for 2012. Celebrations are taking place at Ford’s global manufacturing facility in Rayong, Thailand which opened in May to produce the new Ford Focus which is also built in four other countries.

“Producing 350 million vehicles is equivalent to producing one vehicle every 10 seconds for our 109-year history. If placed end to end, the vehicles would stretch to the moon and back – twice,” said John Fleming, Ford executive vice president of global manufacturing. “Producing this vehicle in Thailand also is significant. It underscores the power of our One Ford plan to deliver profitable growth with great products built in ultra-flexible and efficient facilities everywhere around the world.”

According to data from HIS Automotive, the Ford Focus sold 489 616 units in the first half of 2012 with the nearest competitor being the Toyota Corolla with 462 187 units sold.

“Embracing its performance, value, versatility and fuel economy, the Focus is attracting many new customers to the Ford brand for the very first time, particularly in Asia where we are growing every day,” said Jim Farley, Ford’s group vice president for global marketing, sales and service. “The Focus is a winner on so many levels because it successfully provides customers with what they want most – a safe, smart, fuel-efficient, good-looking, fun-to-drive, affordable car.”

Since Ford’s birth in 1903, the company produced its 50 millionth vehicle with the 1959 Ford Galaxie and in the next 50 years produced an additional 300 million vehicles. By 2013, Ford will build more than 85% of vehicle volume off nine core platforms and in the next four years Ford plans to upgrade their entire product portfolio at least once.

News Source: Ford

Petrol Price to increase by 93c in September 2012

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Motorists in South Africa will be bashing their heads on the steering wheel when the petrol price goes up by 93c/litre next week Wednesday. Diesel will cost 69c/litre more than before.

The Department of Energy said on Friday that the 8.4% increase in petrol prices is partly due to wage increases for petrol attendants. The price of 95 grade petrol will cost R11,97 in Gauteng and R11,62 at the coast. Wholesale diesel prices will also go up by 6.7% to R10,95 per litre.

The increase is also due to rising oil prices fueled by supply issues and improved confidence in the US as well as the weakening rand/dollar exchange rate compared to the previous period. The single maximum national retail price for illuminating paraffin will also increase by 97c per litre to R8,34 per litre.

News Source: News24

Video: Volvo V40 Euro NCAP Crash Test

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It's always amazing to watch footage of crash tests and seeing a car crunch and crumble in slow motion. The Volvo V40 has received a 5-star Euro NCAP rating and has received the best ever overall results, to read more about the Volvo V40's safety achievements simply follow this link, Volvo V40 breaks Safety Record.

Watch the video above to get an idea of what makes the Volvo V40 the safest car in the world.

Video Source: Youtube

Volvo V40 breaks Safety Record

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Volvo is renowned for its safe cars and the all-new Volvo V40 has taken safety to the next level after receiving five stars in the Euro NCAP collision test. Overall, the Volvo V40 achieved the best ever recorded results.

As of 2009, the European Safety Institute Euro NCAP presents an overall rating for each model it tests. Tests are carried out for four sub-categories which are ranked to produce an overall grade and these include adult occupant protection, child protection, pedestrian protection and safety assist.

The Volvo V40 set the record in the adult protection category with a score of 98%, the best ever recorded in a test. A strong structure and systems such as WHIPS (Whiplash Protection System) helped achieve the results. The Volvo V40 also scored maximum points in the safety assist category.

"The new Volvo V40 was launched as the most intelligent and the safest car in its segment, and it is truly packed with active safety systems such as auto brake, Pedestrian Detection to shield pedestrians, Lane Keeping Aid which helps the driver stay within his or her lane, and BLIS which helps the driver detect vehicles in the offset rear ‘blind spot'," says Thomas Broberg, Senior Technical Advisor Safety at Volvo Car Corporation. In terms of pedestrian protection, the Volvo V40 scored maximum points with the world’s first pedestrian airbag.

 There is much to look forward to in the all-new Volvo V40 which is expected to arrive in South Africa in November 2012. If you wish to find out more about the expected model line-up and prices for the Volvo V40, click on the following link,Volvo V40 coming to South Africa.

News Source: Cars.co.za

Video: Audi A7 Sportback Ambassador, Micheal Mol

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Micheal Mol is a well known South African celebrity and is a presenter for the SABC3 magazine show, Top Billing. Micheal Mol is also an Audi Ambassador and has the pleasure of driving an Audi A7 Sportback, just for fun. Other Audi Ambassadors include TV presenters Jeannie D and Jo-Ann Strauss, radio DJ Anele Mdoda, singer and songwriter Lira and 2012 London Olympic swimming gold medalist Cameron van den Burgh. Take a drive with Micheal Mol as he shares his views on his Audi A7 Sportback.

Video Source: Youtube

Video: The New 2014 Mazda6

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Check out this debut video for the new 2014 Mazda6 that is currently on show at the Moscow Motor Show. The Mazda 6 will also be on show at the Paris Motor Show at the end of September 2012 and will be available in South Africa in the first quarter of 2013. Read more about the Mazda6 by clicking on the following link, All-new Mazda6 debuts at Moscow Motor Show.

Video Source: Youtube

New Mazda6 unveiled in Moscow

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No more teasing, the new Mazda6 has finally been revealed to the world and is currently on display at the Moscow Motor Show. The new Mazda6 with SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY and ‘Kodo’ design language is certainly something to eye out but South Africans will have to wait until 2013 to drive the sporty sedan. 

Two petrol engine options are on show in Moscow and include the familiar SKYACTIV-G 2.0-litre that produces 110kW and 201Nm of torque and the all-new SKYACTIV-G 2.5-litre engine that puts out 142kW and 256Nm of torque.

The Mazda6 also ushers in the ‘i-ELOOP’ brake energy regeneration system that charges a capacitor when the driver has his or her foot off the accelerator as well as idle stop first introduced in the Mazda3 in 2009.

The third generation Mazda6 design was influenced by the Takeri concept car shown at the Tokyo Motor Show in 2011 and incorporates Mazda’s Kodo or ‘Soul of Motion’ design philosophy. Its bold design brings a distinct sporty flare to the sedan segment and for the first time sees LED headlights and halo light guides used in a Mazda passenger car. The ‘Soul Red’ body colour is also new and the Mazda6 rides on 19-inch alloys which make it even more assertive and appealing to the eye.

For a more in depth read about the Mazda6 click on the following link, All-new Mazda6 debuts at Moscow Motor Show.

News Source: Cars.co.za

Video: Audi A7 Sportback Ambassador, Lira

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South African singer and songwriter, Lira, is an Audi ambassador and drives an Audi A7 Sportback. Lira is one of six Audi ambassadors alongside television presenters, Jeannie D, Michael Mol and Jo-Ann Strauss, radio DJ Anele Mdoda and 2012 London Olympic swimming gold medalist Cameron van den Burgh. Check out the video below and take a drive with Lira and hear what she has to say about the Audi A7 Sportback.

Video Source: Youtube

Volkswagen Golf 7, what to expect

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Although the finer details remain under wraps for now, the new VW Golf 7 is set to make its global debut at the Paris Motor Show at the end of September and will be built on VW’s new MQB modular platform, which will also service 40 other small to mid-sided models across VW’s brands.

Here’s what has been revealed though. We now know that the new Golf 7 will be 110kg lighter than the outgoing model. The weight loss is attributed to the fact that stronger steel is used in the construction while cutting down on metal use. Good news on the petrol front is that the new Golf 7 will also consume up to 32% less fuel according to VW. The shared platform will also shave manufacturing time by 30% and production costs by 20% and the savings will be used to upgrade entertainment systems for the car.

The new Golf 7 will also be larger and lower than the outgoing model and will feature comprehensive safety features such as Multi collision brake, Electronic differential lock, Adaptive Cruise Control with Emergency brake assist, Lane change assist, Fatigue and traffic sign detection and Overhead Parking System.

On the engine front we can expect a turbocharged 1.4-litre direct injection petrol unit putting out 103kW along with a dual-clutch 7-speed transmission. Fuel consumption for this engine is estimated at 4.0-litres/100km and will emit CO2 at a rate of 112g/km. We can also expect a turbocharged 1.6-litre common rail diesel engine that develops 78kW while sipping fuel at a rate of 4.0-litres/100km and spewing CO2 at 99g/km.

The new Golf 7 GTI will also be showing its face at the Paris Motor Show and will be driven by a 165kW 2.0-litre direct injection turbo petrol engine. The new Golf 7 is expected in South Africa in the first quarter of 2013.

We can all agree that the VW Golf has come a long way from the picture you see below, and there is a reason why the VW Golf is so loved around the world, because it’s simply a great car that keeps evolving and never gets old. That’s my opinion anyway…share your thoughts below.  

News Source: Wheels24, Carmag

Video: Audi A5 Cabriolet Ambassador, Jeannie D

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This is the stunning Jeannie D we have all come to love from Top Billing. Take a drive with Jeannie D in her Audi A5 Cabriolet 2.0 T FSI quattro while she shares her thoughts on what makes her Audi so special. Jeannie D is one of six Audi brand ambassadors alongside singer and songwriter Lira, television presenters Michael Mol and Jo-Ann Strauss, radio DJ Anele Mdoda, and 2012 Olympic swimming gold medalist Cameron van den Burgh.



Video Source: Youtube

Video: Porsche 911 Carrera 4

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The new Porsche 911 Carrera 4 has officially been unveiled and will make its first appearance at the Paris Motor Show at the end of September 2012. The new 911 Carrera 4 will go on sale in Europe at the end of 2012 and can be expected in South Africa early in 2013. Check out this video to get an idea of what the new Porsche 911 Carrera has to offer.

Video Source: Youtube

Video: Toyota 86 Drifting

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Check out this cool Toyota 86 promo video to come out of the Philippines where an entourage of 86's display some pretty impressive drifting. The video was produced by Toyota Philippines at an airstrip where the Toyota 86's were unleashed for some fun.

The Toyota 86 was recently launched in South Africa and has created a seemingly massive stir in the motoring world, and for good reason. The rear-wheel drive 86 is powered by a 2.0-litre Subaru boxer engine that puts out 147kW and 205Nm of torque and provides an affordable sport car option for those who enjoy the thrill of rear-wheel driving. Affordability is something the 86 respects and in South Africa the Toyota 86 price makes it accessible to many customers who are looking for an alternative to your run of the mill hot hatch.

This is definitely a car to consider if you are looking for something different and exciting. As in the words of Toyota, GO PLAY! Watch the video to wet your appetite a little bit more, enjoy.

Video Source: Youtube

Hands-free texting technology for Dodge

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We have all seen drivers either texting or chatting away on their cellphones while driving and not only is it frustrating to watch how unnerved these drivers are while doing it, it's dangerous too. Distracted driving claims countless lives on our roads and the sad thing is that most of these lives could be spared if drivers simply paid more attention to the task of driving rather than engaging in distracted behaviour.

US automaker Dodge, under Chrysler Group, is developing a system that may alleviate the physical act of sending a text message while driving using hands-free voice responses to send text messages. Computer generated speech reads the received text message and relays it to the driver, who is then able to dictate a response and approve it, which will then be sent via a Bluetooth connected cellphone as a text message. The 2013 Dodge Ram 1500 truck will be the first US-built vehicle to offer the system. The system will be Android and Blackberry compatible but will not be iPhone compatible.

I guess technology can help alleviate the problem, however the problem is a human one and people themselves should consciously avoid using their cell phones while driving. If you are reading this, I urge you to read How to Avoid Distracted Driving and share it amongst your peers, family and work colleagues. People need to be aware of the dangers of distracted driving and only then may our roads become safer for all.

News Source: Wheels24

Porsche unveils the new 911 Carrera 4

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There’s something about a Porsche that’s just outright gorgeous. You may or may not agree. The new Porsche 911 Carrera 4 is no exception and is set to make its debut at the Paris Motor show at the end of September 2012 and will go on sale in Europe towards the end of the year. Rumour has it that it will be available in South Africa early in 2013.

The new 911 Carrera 4 will be available in four versions, the 4 and the 4S and both in Coupé and Cabriolet form.  This time round, the all-wheel drive Carrera 4 incorporates Porsche Traction Management (PTM) which distributes power to all four corners and the rear wheel arches have been extended outwards by 22mm and the tyre width sees an increase of 10mm for extra road hugging capability. The engine, lightweight body design and gearboxes are identical to its rear-wheel drive family members.

Customers can choose between a 257kW 3.4-litre engine for the 4 and a 294kW 3.8-litre engine for the 4S. All models are fitted with a 7-speed manual gearbox as standard with a 7-speed PDK double-clutch gearbox as an option.

The new 911 Carrera 4 is now 64kg lighter and sips 16% less fuel and introduces Adaptive Cruise Control across the range as well as a sliding glass sunroof for the Coupé variants. this is no doubt another impressive car from Porsche but I suggest you read about it a little more by clicking here: New Porsche 911 Carrera 4 to debut at Paris Motor Show.

News Source: Cars.co.za

Nissan Navara Titanium Special Version in South Africa

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Nissan Navara fans will be pleased to know that Nissan are producing only 200 units of the Navara Titanium that is due for release in September 2012. The new model comes with a host of styling and specification upgrades compared to the current SE model that will make the Navara Titanium stand out on the road.

The upgrades include a satin-smoked-finish front grille, rear step, bumper, side mirror covers, door handles and titanium-coloured wheels. The Navara Titanium also comes with all-terrain tyres, a tow bar, front bull bar, tonneau cover, embossed carpets and a Ttianium branded key ring. Three colours are available for the Navara Titanium including white, black and silver.

 

The Titanium will be available as a 4x2 or a 4x4. The 4x4 version will be powered by a 2.5-litre common-rail diesel engine that puts out 128kW and 403Nm of torque with a fuel consumption figure of 9.0-litres/100km.

Marinus Venter, Navara Product Manager at Nissan South Africa said that “The Nissan Navara Titanium Special Version really brings into being the toughness of the Navara and is perfect for individuals who like to take the road less travelled. It has been well-positioned and offers great value in an exclusive package.” Prices are as follows,

Nissan Nevara Titanium 4x2 – R374 000

Nissan Nevara Titanium 4x4 – R415 000

News Source: Nissan

Toyota unveils 86 race car

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The much applauded Toyota 86, or GT86 as its known abroad is available for racing after Toyota Motorsport GmbH (TMG) launched the cost effective TMG GT86 CS-V3 for private participants.

The TMG GT86 CS-V3 went through a successful development period where it won its class in the Nürburgring 24 Hours and has now been refined and packaged as an entry-level race for easy maintenance, low running cost and fun driving. The TMG GT86 CS-V3 was developed specifically for the V3 class of the Nürburgring-based VLN series.

The road-going Toyota 86 specs are impressive to begin with and provides the perfect platform for an entry-level sports car. The TMG GT86 CS-V3 features a stiffened chassis and optimised weight distribution for racing as well as a racing exhaust, suspension and brakes that aims to deliver a fun and easily accessible racing experience.

TMG President, Yoshiaki Kinoshita said that “We want to share the passion of motorsport with as many people as possible and this car is the result. It is already race-proven having won the V3 class in the Nürburgring 24 Hours and we hope to see many more of these cars competing in the coming months. The GT86 is a perfect car for production-based motorsport. It already looks fantastic and has superb handling, so with further performance and safety upgrades we have created a really exciting and competitive car which is extremely cost effective.”

News Source: Toyota

The Stylish McLaren X-1

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Give it a second, it will come to you, or not. What you looking at is the one-off McLaren X-1 built by McLaren Special Operations (MSO) for a mystery client. It’s also a supercar and shares the same 3.8-litre V8 twin turbo engine and carbon monocoque body as the McLaren MP4-12C supercar.

Apart from being radically different in design, all the parts used to build the X-1 were specially made for this car and each part has a purpose making the X-1 an exquisitely detailed car, inside and out. Whether it’s attractive is up for debate but it earns top stripes for being different. Read more about the X-1 by clicking here, The Unique McLaren X-1.

Do you like the McLaren X-1?

News Source: Cars.co.za 

GWM launches C10 in South Africa

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Great Wall Motors (GWM) has launched its second passenger hatchback in South Africa this week and it’s called the C10. A defining feature of the C10 is most definitely its front end with its distinct vertical string grille design which is rather eye- catching.

It must be said however that the C10 may become GWM’s only passenger car in the market after the base model Florid was recently discontinued and now only the Florid Cross remains, which could very well face the axe after the C10’s arrival since they are very similar in size, features and mechanics.

The GWM C10 is available in one trim level only and customers may only choose a colour as an option. The C10 is fitted with the same 1.5-litre petrol engine as in the Florid which produces 77kW and 138Nm. The engine also benefits from Variable Valve Timing. A five speed manual gearbox does the shifting work for the C10 while there is the possibility of a automatic variant in the future.

Some of the standard features include a radio/CD player with MP3 and Auxiliary capability, rear park assist, electric windows, 15” alloy wheels, remote central locking, height adjustable steering wheel with audio controls as well as air conditioning. Dual front airbags and ABS brakes with EBD are also fitted as standard.

The GWM C10 sells for R135 000 which is a tad more expensive than its rivals the VW Polo Vivo, Ford Figo and the Toyota Etios. The price includes a 3-year/100 000km warranty and 24hr roadside assistance.

Do you like the GWM C10?  

News Source: IOL Motoring

Nissan South Africa to increase production

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Nissan South Africa is gearing up for a capacity increase at its Rosslyn-based plant in Pretoria. The announcement coincided with a visit from the chief operating officer of Nissan Motor Company Limited (NML), Toshiyuki Shiga.

The increase in capacity will create in the region of 800 jobs at the Rosslyn plant including operators, team leaders, supervisors and engineers. A further 4000 jobs will be created in the wider automotive industry. The Rosslyn plant will produce a potential 100 000 vehicles annually by 2016 which will include an all-new bakkie which will be produced alongside the current Nissan NP200, NP300 Hardbody, the Nissan Livina and the Renault Sandero under the Renault-Nissan Alliance. No details of the ‘new’ bakkie have been released yet.

 Nissan South Africa managing director Mike Whitfield said that in today’s climate of economic uncertainty and low-cost competitiveness, the support from Nissan Motor Limited in Japan for local operations is a huge boost. “It is a vote of confidence in Nissan South Africa both as a manufacturing facility and as a driver of brand sales on the African continent and beyond” said Whitfield.

Whitfield also said that in addition to the new 1-tonne bakkie, Nissan will also be producing a new B-segment passenger vehicle in the near future. Discussions to rollout the Nissan LEAF in South Africa are also underway after its successful launch in Europe, USA and Japan.

News Source: Nissan

Video: Toyota 86 Real Deal Advert

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Check out this cool Toyota 86 advert. A man is chained in the life of the unreal and discovers 'The Real Deal' in the new Toyota 86 and escapes into reality. The Toyota 86 was recently launched in South Africa and seems to be on lips of many and it's no surprise, the Toyota 86 is a beautiful car that deserves the attention. Watch the video and read more about the Toyota 86.

Video Source: YouTube

The Carroll Shelby GT500 Cobra Unveiled

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Even though Carroll Shelby has passed away, he would be pleased to see the 2013 Ford Shelby GT500 Cobra that's been built in his honour, marking the 50^th anniversary of the Shelby Cobra.

This is a serious Cobra that spits out 850 horsepower venom from its Ford Racing supercharged V8 engine and 4.0-litre Whipple supercharger. The Shelby GT500 Cobra features a Shelby American wide-body kit, a specially designed bonnet, Shelby Wilwood brakes as well as large 20 x 13-inch rear and 20 x10-inch front wheels. In true classic Cobra style, the Ford Shelby GT500 Cobra is finished in the same Guardsman Blue and Wimbledon White stripes that’s reminiscent of so many Cobra roadsters built in the 1960’s.

Shelby American president, John Luft said “Carroll Shelby changed the performance world forever and while he was proud of Shelby American’s achievements, Carroll was far more interested in the next car we would build. You will find the spirit and influence of Carroll Shelby in every future vehicle we build just as you’ll find it in the rear wide-body kit and bonnet integrated into the 2013 Shelby GT500 Cobra.”

The tribute car was unveiled at the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion and will embark on a tour around the US to commemorate Carroll Shelby’s life and contribution to the world of sports cars.

 

News Source: Ford

South African Petrol Price Hike September 2012

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Terrible news for motorists in South Africa is that the petrol price could increase by as much as 78 cents come September, this, after a 22c rise in August 2012. Supply issues and increasing consumer confidence in the US have led to increasing oil prices which will most likely trigger the fuel hike.

The increase could lead to motorists paying up to R11.47 per litre at the coast and R11.82 per litre in Gauteng. Time to ride a bicycle?

News Source: News24

Video: Toronto Batman Reviews the Hyundai i30

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This is one of the funniest car reviews I have seen in a while. Journalist Rory Reid was in the process of reviewing the Hyundai i30 in London, when the Toronto Batman appeared and took over the proceedings in what turns out to be a sight for sore eyes.

Toronto Batman does not seem to rate the Hyundai i30 too highly, but hey, what does he know. The new Hyundai i30 is a great car and has recently been launched in South Africa, if you want to read more about the i30, simply click here: Bold Hyundai i30 Hatchback in South Africa

Watch the video below and have a chuckle, or two.

Video Source Youtube

Video: How not to drive a BMW M3

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This is a prime example of how not to drive daddy's BMW M3. This inexperienced youngster was driving way to fast on a desert road and failed to make his turn and ended up taking his BMW M3 on an off-road adventure. Luckily for him, he escaped injury but probably had some serious explaining to do. Whatever you do, don't drive like this guy. Check out the video below to see what happens when you mix inexperience with stupidity.

Video Source: Youtube

2013 Toyota Auris coming to SA

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Toyota has revealed the new 2013 Auris which is set to make its debut at the Paris Motor Show at the end of September 2012 and will look to take on the likes of the Ford Focus and VW Golf. The new Auris has been stylistically revised for an enhanced look and handling has been sharpened for a more responsive drive.

The 2013 Auris takes on a road-hugging approach and sits about 55mm lower than the previous model and is a tad longer too. More high tensile steel is used for the body work, which has resulted in 40kg weight loss and has increased tensile strength by 10%. The reduced height and lower centre of gravity coupled with new suspension and steering should make for a thrilling ride, more so than the previous model.

A sharper, more refined design approach can be seen at the front-end which incorporates a sleek grille and well shaped headlights offering a sharp and assertive feel.

Although details of what engines will be offered in South Africa remain sketchy at this point, we can expect revised versions of the entry level 1.3-litre petrol engine, a 1.6–litre petrol and a 1.4-litre diesel engine to begin with. The Auris Hybrid is also likely to show its face and will still use the 1.8-litre engine coupled with an electric motor utilising a nickel-metal hydride battery pack. 

The new Toyota Auris will be available in South Africa sometime in the first quarter of 2013.

 New Source: Carmag

Volvo V40 Prices for South Africa

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The much awaited Volvo V40 premium hatchback will be in South Africa soon and Volvo Car South Africa (VCSA) has gone ahead and spilt the beans on the V40’s pricing when it arrives in South Africa.

"We couldn't have received a better indication of just how popular the Volvo V40 is going to be. It is such an exciting vehicle for us and we are delighted that the public seem to be equally eager for the arrival of the Volvo V40" said Bram van der Reep, Managing Director of Volvo Car South Africa.

Volvo's new premium hatch will be available for test drives at all Volvo dealerships from 15 October, and will go on sale from 15 November 2012, but orders can be placed now.

Volvo will be launching the all-new V40 in T3 manual, T4 manual, D2 manual and D3 Geartronic derivatives. The remainder of the local line-up, including the spectacular Volvo V40 R-Design, will be available from March 2013.

Pricing for the Volvo V40 is as follows,

V40 T3 Manual Essential        R 281,200

V40 D2 Manual Essential       R 283,200

V40 T3 Manual Excel             R 299,300

V40 D2 Manual Excel            R 301,300

V40 T3 Manual Elite              R 313,200

V40 D2 Manual Elite              R 315,200

V40 T4 Manual Excel             R 316,800

V40 T4 Manual Elite              R 330,700

V40 T4 Powershift Excel       R 332,600

V40 D3 Geartronic Excel       R 339,800

V40 T4 Powershift Elite         R 346,500

V40 D3 Geartronic Elite         R 353,700

V40 D3 Geartronic R-Design R 363,300

V40 T5 Geartronic Excel        R 373,700

V40 T5 Geartronic Elite         R 387,600

V40 T5 Geartronic R-Design  R 397,100

 

News Source: Volvo South Africa

BMW Zagato Roadster Revealed

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You may have seen the BMW Zagato Coupé earlier this year, which was a result of a mating ritual between BMW and Zagato that produced something to gawk at. Now, that mating ritual has continued and produced yet another stunning creation in the form of the BMW Zagato Roadster which was on display at the 2012 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in California yesterday.

The BMW Zagato Roadster has gone topless with a double bubble fabric soft top roof and features bold, elegant and sporty dimensions and was built in only six weeks. “This car is not designed only as an elegant convertible, but also as a masculine and extremely dynamic sports car which evokes a powerful driving experience” says Zagato chief designer Norihiko Harada.

The BMW Zagato Roadster places the driver low and close to the rear driven wheels within a sporty interior which makes use of fine brown leather that distinguishes it from the exterior. In terms of design, the front end sports a low-set kidney grille with z-design grating for full effect. Twin circular headlights and a three-dimensional front apron further define the masculine look of the BMW Zagato Roadster. The headlights also feature unique ‘razorlight’ LED light strips.

The roll bars were inspired from an aircraft wing and are an eye catching feature of the BMW Zagato Roadster which rides on 5-spoke 19-inch light alloy wheels. The paintwork is finished in grey with impressive depth and the colour spectrum ranges from dark grey to light silver, depending how light hits the body.

What do you think of the BMW Zagato Roadster?

News Source: BMW

Video: Jeremy Foley Crash at Pikes Peak International Hill Climb

Tweet You may have seen the incredible video of Jeremy Foley and navigator Yuri Kouznetsov driving their Evolution Dynamics Mitsubishi Evolution 8 off a mountain at Mile 16 of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb recently, if you haven't seen it, watch it below, it's insane. By a great stroke of luck both Jeremy and Yuri survived the horrific crash largely unharmed, barring scrapes and bruises and Yuri's dislocated shoulder.
An on-board video captured with a GoPro camera recovered after the crash has also been released by Evolution Dynamics and provides a different angle of what was a seriously scary crash. Watch both of the videos below and see for yourself.

Video Source: Youtube

The McLaren 12C Can-Am Edition

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 This marvellous creation from McLaren GT is called the 12C Can-Am Edition and is a track focused concept that is on show at the Pebble Beach Concours D' Elegance in the US. The 12C Can-Am Edition is beautifully finished in McLaren Orange and satin black, a tribute to the cars of Bruce McLaren and Denny Hulme which reigned supreme in the 1960’s and 1970’s.

The 12C Can-Am Edition is purely a concept at this stage and was designed as the ‘ultimate track car’ and although based on the 12C GT3 race car, the 12C Can-Am Edition is not subject to the regular racing regulations. The 12C Can-Am Edition shares the same carbon-fibre MonoCell chassis as the road-going McLaren MP4-12C but the familiar 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8 features a unique engine calibration and optimised cooling system that allows for a power output of 463kW making it the most powerful 12C derivative ever shown. To make this car more appealing for racing, it only weighs 1200kg, so you can just imagine.

To add to its racing ability, the unique aerodynamics of the 12C Can-Am Edition has been honed by McLaren Racing using F1 technology and simulation which has ultimately led to a 30% increase in downforce. This is achieved with a carbon-fibre splitter, carbon-fibre dive planes and a carbon-fibre wing which dominates it’s rear-end.

The braking system on the 12C Can-Am Edition is developed by Akebono and sits behind black satin-finished lightweight racing alloy wheels with Pirelli slicks. The interior features two black race seats with six-point harnesses mounted in the cabin as well as a full race-specification rollcage, just in case. The steering wheel is the same one used on the 12C GT3 with the shape and grip derived from Lewis Hamilton’s MP4-24 F1 car. Carbon-fibre detailing is to be found throughout the cabin, across the dashboard and sill panels. The 12C Can-Am Edition also features an integrated air conditioning system which is now mandatory in many race series cars.

I think the McLaren 12C Can-Am Edition is simply incredible, what do you think?

 News Source: McLaren