BREAKING! LOTUS CEO BAHAR SUSPENDED

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DRB-Hicom, the new majority owners of Lotus Cars, has suspended Lotus CEO Dany Bahar indefinitely. A statement my DRB-Hicom says this is in order to facilitate an investigation into a complaintabout Bahar’s conduct. Said complaint was issued by DRB-Hicom itself.

Bahar joined Lotus in 2009 from Ferrari. His main task was to remodel the iconic British brand into a slick new outfit that could run alongside his former employer, as well as the likes of Porsche and Aston Martin.

Instead, Lotus still has not realised a profit since DRB-Hicom’s fellow Malaysian company Proton bought it way back in 1996. No surprises there since nothing much in terms of new product has been forthcoming, despite rivals pushing out new models like a fashion week catwalk.

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ERIC CLAPTON SHOWS OFF HIS SPECIAL FERRARI SP12 EC

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“Would you know my name, if I saw you in heaven” crooned one Eric Clapton. The song was a dedication to his late son who died at 4 years old in 1991. Now Ferrari has dedicated something to the famous guitarist; a new SP12 EC. The car is a Ferrari through and through, except for one small difference; only Clapton owns it.

Designed by Centro Stile Ferrari, in collaboration with Pininfarina and the engineers from Maranello, the SP12 EC is a one-off creation especially made for Clapton. So it’s the only one that exists in the entire world.

The look and styling were inspired by the 512 BB - of which the singer owns three - and the incredible 458 Italia. It’s not said how much he paid for this car, but he is reportedly extremely satisfied with it.

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BMW ZAGATO COUPE CONCEPT UNVEILED

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The BMW Zagato Coupe Concept, a new study unveiled ahead of its debut at the 2012 Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este on the shores of Lake Como, could very well point to a future model. As the name suggests, it was jointly developed by Italian design and coach-building house Zagato.

Not the first time the two have collaborated. There were other cars co-developed before the iconic M1 supercar of the 1970s, but probably none as outstanding as that car was. Now BMW is looking for more wow reactions.

Our first impressions? It’s a cross between the previous-generation Z4 Coupe and a Honda CR-Z hybrid at the back. Seriously. Take a look and see. Anywho, the concept is built on aluminium for obvious lightweight benefits, features a rear diffuser, rides on 19-inch wheels and apparently features a high-performance engine that BMW hasn’t detailed.

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MERCEDES-BENZ SPEARHEADS READ PROJECT

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The Mercedes-Benz group of companies in South Africa (MBSA) continues to embrace the Rally to READ project, which entered its 14th year in 2012. The longevity of MBSA’s support over 11 years attests to the worth of the initiative, and goes to the heart of the MBSA philosophy of participating in community development schemes that have a sustainable impact.

Businesses join hands with national organisers McCarthy, Financial Mail, and the READ Educational Trust to assist schools in rural areas of South Africa by providing educational equipment, as well as curriculum support to teachers. Schools are selected and supported over a three year period, so sponsors are able to return in subsequent years to experience the impact made on the lives of the recipients.

Research shows that the average 16-year-old in a rural school has a reading skill level up to seven years behind that of his urban counterpart. Without effective reading and writing skills, the likelihood of completing high school or tertiary education and the prospect of future work is extremely limited.

The Rally to Read concept began as a small project in KwaZulu Natal in 1998, and over the past 14 years has escalated to include rural regions in eight provinces. MBSA, which has its manufacturing plant in East London in the Eastern Cape, started its Rally to Read involvement in this province. The company has acted as host for other corporates and organisations who participate in this leg of the initiative for a number of years.

“Because MBSA draws its workforce largely from the Eastern Cape, the standard of learners exiting the education system in this province is of great interest to us. We continue to do everything in our power to join hands with other interested parties to produce well-educated young people with a skills base relevant to the needs of industry,” says company CEO, Dr Martin Zimmermann.

So great is MBSA’s confidence in the impact of the Rally to READ project, the company has also extended its involvement to other provinces over the past five years. In 2012, in addition to hosting the Eastern Cape leg, MBSA staff will also travel in convoy to the Free State, KwaZulu Natal and Mpumalanga to show their support.

In each province, the weekend-long Rally sees sponsoring corporates take to the road in 4x4 vehicles to deliver books, teaching aids, science kits, sports equipment, educational toys and other materials to some of the most neglected and under-developed schools in rural South Africa

STORY BY MERCEDES-BENZ

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GROENEWALD DOMINATES ZWARTKOPS

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Team Sasol Racing’s Hennie Groenewald put in a command performance at Zwartkops Raceway to dominate the 4th round of the Bridgestone Production Car Championship and extend his championship points lead to 16 points and set a new circuit lap record as an added bonus.

The Subaru WRX STI started two races from pole position, claimed three victories and set three fastest laps but team principal Carel Pienaar cautioned that the Subaru team had an element of luck in their races.  “We know other teams were quicker than us in practice but didn’t convert their pace into race performance whereas we had a strategy that worked perfectly.  Hennie was on top form but the cars he passed in race two were more as a result of other driver’s errors than out-and-out pace”.

Richard claimed his best qualifying performance of the season so far, planting his Sasol Subaru WRX STI in 6th on the grid but his vein of poor luck continued in the Pretoria races.

Practice and Qualifying:

Hennie set the 2nd quickest time in P1, went fastest in P2 and was third in P3, behind one BMW and an Audi.  Qualifying in the cool Highveld air saw Hennie set a time of 1:04:741, nearly half a second faster than Michael Stephen’s works Audi.

“I was surprised at my time, which is the first ever under a 1:05 for the Sasol Subaru.  I knew we had a competitive car after practice but Michael set a better time than me on fresh rubber so I was quite surprised by my time as it is the same car we had in Port Elizabeth and Cape Town.  The cooler air and higher altitude suits the Subaru.

Race 1:

Hennie scorched off the line into the lead and put in a blistering lap to open a sizeable lead to the chasing pack.  “I did a flat out lap to build a lead as our pace drops off towards the end of the race while the Audis get stronger”, said the race winner.

Richard was locked in a fierce battle with Johan Fourie’s Audi for 7th.  As the Audi dived up the inside line at the hairpin, Richard simply used the Subaru’s grip to defend his line around the outside and then out-dragged him onto the main straight to hold his position to the flag.

Race 2: 

The top six finishers were inverted, leaving Hennie 6th on the grid.  Half way around the first lap, he was up to 5th, then 3rd on lap two, 2nd on lap 3 and challenged Anthony Taylor’ (BMW) for the lead on lap 4.  “Anthony put a wheel onto the dirt and as he lifted I put the car’s nose in the gap and went for it.  I was in the right place at the right time during the race and maximized them to my advantage”, said a delighted Hennie after the race.

Team boss Carel added: “Hennie is a master at clean overtaking; there isn’t a single mark on the car.  We gambled on using new tyres for race 2 to set the fastest lap which would give us pole for race 3 and our plan worked perfectly”.

The vibration on Richard’s car that started in the first race caused the brake disc and calipers to move, leaving the second sasol Subaru without effective braking.  Richard pitted hoping the team could find a cure and came out on the last lap to set a time for race 3.  “The problem was bigger than I thought, so the team changed the wheel bearing for the last race”.

Race 3:

Hennie led the field in the final race, which started at dusk.  “I hoped Michael and Anthony would dispute the first corner and hold each other up letting me open up a gap which is exactly what happened”, Hennie explained.  As the warring German marques tripped over each other, Hennie opened a big lead to finish the double-points paying race 3 seconds ahead of the chasing pack.

Richard was forced to retire as the brakes were damaged from the bearing vibration earlier in the day.  “I’m naturally very disappointed but at the same time, I’m ecstatic for the Team”.

“Everything went right today”, beamed Carel.  “Our preparation and hard work paid dividends and our strategy worked to plan; I’m very happy.  The other teams plans didn’t work out which made us look better than we really were”.

The next outing for Team Sasol Racing is in Durban as part of the Top Gear festival on 16 and 17 June.

STORY BY SUBARU

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VOLVO V40 SHOWS FIRST PEDESTRIAN AIRBAG

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Seven sensors, advanced technology and an airbag that deploys at lightning speed in the windscreen area. These are some of the main elements of Pedestrian Airbag Technology - the system that makes Volvo Car Corporation with its all-new Volvo V40 the first manufacturer to produce this innovative technology.

In China 25% of traffic fatalities involve pedestrians. In Europe the figure is 14% and in the USA 12%. The number of pedestrians injured are far higher than this. The most serious head injuries involving pedestrians and cars are caused by the hard structure under the bonnet panel, the windscreen's lower edge and the A-pillars.
 
These were some of the considerations when Volvo Car Corporation started development of its Pedestrian Airbag Technology. The system was a world breakthrough when the all-new Volvo V40 was launched in Geneva earlier this year.

The Volvo V40 is Volvo's latest offering, a premium, 5-door hatchback that epitomizes style, sportiness and Scandinavian luxury.
 
“We are proud to be able to offer a car with an airbag for pedestrians. The purpose of the airbag is to help protect pedestrians in certain situations when they impact the bonnet and the area around the windscreen wiper recess and A-pillar, where there may be a risk of serious head injuries,” says Thomas Broberg, Senior Technical Advisor Safety, Volvo Car Corporation.
 
Seven sensors embedded in the front of the car transmit signals to a control unit. When the car comes into contact with an object, the signals change. The control unit evaluates the signals and if it registers what it interprets as a human leg the pedestrian airbag is deployed.
 
Raises the bonnet by ten centimetres
The bonnet hinges are each equipped with pyrotechnical release mechanisms which, when the system is activated, pull out a pin and release the rear of the bonnet panel. At the same time, the airbag is activated and starts filling with gas. During the inflation sequence the airbag raises the bonnet. It is lifted ten centimetres and stays in the raised position.
 
The added gap between the bonnet and the hard components in the engine compartment gives space for the bonnet to deform, creating a dampening effect when it is hit. 

“The airbag has two functions. Firstly, it raises the bonnet to create distance, and secondly it cushions the impact around the hard parts of the area near the windscreen,” explains Broberg.
 
In its inflated position, the airbag covers the entire windscreen wiper recess, which is about one-third at the bottom of the windscreen and the lower part of the A-pillars, so the driver's visibility will not be affected. The entire sequence from activation of the system to full inflation takes a few hundredths of a second.
 
Tests with human-like dummy legs 
The system is active at speeds between 20 and 50 km/h. About 75% of all accidents involving pedestrians take place at up to 40km/h.
 
“We developed the technology using computer simulations and human-like leg and head forms. The tests were carried out in a wide variety of configurations,” relates Broberg. 
 
The airbag itself consists of a bag and a gas hybrid generator. Upon activation, the bag is filled with gas within a few milliseconds.
 
This is not Volvo's only “ammunition” against pedestrian accidents: Two years ago, 2010, Volvo Car Corporation launched Pedestrian Detection with full auto brake. The system can avoid a collision with a pedestrian at speeds of up to 35km/h if the driver does not respond in time. At higher speeds the focus is on reducing the car's speed as much as possible before the collision.

All of these systems are further steps towards Volvo Car Corporation's Vision 2020 - which is Volvo's goal no longer having serious injuries or fatalities in a new Volvo by year 2020.

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TOYOTA CEO VAN ZYL HONOURED BY NWU

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Dr Johan van Zyl, President and CEO of Toyota South Africa (TSAM), was today honoured by the North West University’s Potchefstroom Campus (NWU-PUK) for his exceptional contribution to academia and industry when he was awarded an Honorary Doctorate by Faculty Economic and Management Sciences.

In conferring the degree Professor Elsabè Loots, the Dean of the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, recognised Dr Van Zyl for his extraordinary and continued contribution to the academic sphere. This is evident in, amongst other roles, his position as Extraordinary Professor at the NWU-PUK School for Business Management and his positions as advisor to the University of Pretoria’s Faculty of Management Sciences and the University of Stellenbosch Business School.

Prof Loots further recognised Dr Van Zyl’s contribution to establishing the spirit of entrepreneurship – both in spirit in the employees of Toyota South Africa and in the various suppliers and providers that the company has established and supported over many years.

The title Philosophiae Doctor Honoris Causa was further conferred on Dr Van Zyl for his undisputed leadership role in the South African and global automotive industry. Dr Van Zyl today occupies the position of Deputy Chief Officer for Africa, Latin America, the Middle East and the Caribbean in the global Toyota Motor Corporation, while also responsible for the daily running of Toyota in Africa in addition to his position as President and CEO of TSAM.

In these positions Dr Van Zyl has the distinction as being one of only five non-Japanese managers on the top management structure of the global Toyota Motor Corporation.
Speaking during a guest lecture on the eve of the graduation ceremony, Dr Van Zyl emphasised the key role of education in socio-economic advancement.

“It is my firm view that education – on all levels – is the foundation to economic advancement and the upliftment of our society and hence it has been a core focus of our corporate social investment since our founding more than 50 years ago,” says Dr Van Zyl.

Dr Van Zyl joined Toyota in 1993 as the Director for Sales and the Dealer Network. His academic underpinning in economics and marketing – having obtained his doctorate while a lecturer at the University of Potchefstroom – stood him in good stead and he progressed through various management roles before being appointed to President and CEO of Toyota South Africa Motors in 2002.

In his role as President and CEO Dr Van Zyl has overseen the largest ever investment programme by the Japanese company in South Africa, increased production capacity of the firm’s local plant to 220 000, expanded the local affiliate’s reach of export markets to over 58 countries and stood at the head of the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa for several terms between 2005 and 2008. Today Dr Van Zyl sits on the Advisory Panel for Economic Development for the Department of Economic Development.

STORY BY TOYOTA

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CHEVROLET ANNOUNCES NEW SS V8 SPORTS SEDAN

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Chevrolet has announced the return of a V8 powered, rear-wheel-drive performance sedan to the U.S. lineup, the Chevrolet SS.  The SS will also be Chevrolet’s next NASCAR Sprint Cup racecar and will debut in its race configuration at the 2013 Daytona 500.

The limited production version of the Chevrolet SS will be a 2014 model and will arrive in dealer showrooms in late 2013. It is the first time in 17 years that Chevrolet will offer a rear-wheel-drive sedan for sale in the United States.

Chevrolet has a long history of using the SS (Super Sport) designation on high-performance models of some of its most enduring nameplates. The SS designation first appeared in 1957 on a Corvette prototype race car built under the guidance of Zora Arkus-Duntov with the plan to enter it in the Le Mans 24-hour race. 

The first production vehicle offered with an SS option was the 1961 Impala – 453 were built with the performance upgrades which included a modified chassis and suspension, power brakes, a steering column mounted tachometer and unique wheels and tires. The latest SS model in the Chevrolet lineup is the fifth-generation Camaro, which debuted in 2010. 

The Chevrolet SS will be a derivative of the award-winning global rear-wheel-drive architecture that spawns performance vehicles like Chevrolet Camaro and Holden’s upcoming VF Commodore.  The much anticipated Australian-built car will benefit from significant technology advances which enhance overall performance.

“As a passionate race fan and performance enthusiast, I am thrilled that Chevrolet will deliver a true rear-wheel-drive NASCAR racecar in the SS that is very closely linked to the performance sedan that will be available for sale,” said Mark Reuss, president of GM North America.  “The Chevrolet SS is a great example of how GM is able to leverage its global product portfolio to deliver a unique performance experience that extends beyond the track. I am personally looking forward to driving it.”

Chevrolet was America’s best-selling performance car brand in 2011 with Camaro and Corvette accounting for one out of every three sports cars sold in the United States.  The addition of the SS should strengthen Chevrolet’s position as a leading performance brand.

STORY BY CHEVROLET

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RENAULT FACELIFTS, CUTS KOLEOS RANGE

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Renault South Africa has launched the new and updated facelift Koleos crossover vehicle. It now comes with one engine and three different models, ranging from a 4x2 manual to a 4x4 CVT. Not too many Koleos models have been sold in Mzansi, but Renault hopes the updates will make things much smoother from hereon.

Koleos now boasts a new front end with air intakes positioned on either side of the company logo, slimmer headlights, more streamlined side mirrors with LED indicators, and 17-inch wheels. The interior has apparently been refreshed to make it more high quality, with leather now coming standard, 70 litres of stowage available all around the cabin, folding tables at the rear and a split-opening tailgate whose upper part is designed to open in cramped spaces.

Like other Renault products in the country, the Koleos now comes standard with a Carminat Tom Tomon-board satellite navigation system, dual-zone climate control, full electric windows, front heated seats for the winter, a Bose sound systemwith Bluetooth connectivity and USB ports. There’s also front and rear parking sensors.

Only one engine is being sold now, namely the 2.5-litre 16V ancient runner. It does a laboured 126kW at 6000rpm and 226Nm of torque at 4400rpm. Earth to Renault: 2.5-litre engines last produced 120kW in the year 2000. Doesn’t promise much, doesn’t deliver much either. By that we mean a 0 – 100km/h run in about 9 seconds, top speed of 191km/h and combined fuel consumption of about 9.9 litres per 100km.

In terms of the three variants we have a 4x2 6-speed manual pulling on its front wheels, a 4x4 6-speed manual and a 4x4 with a CVT gearbox.

Renault Koleos Pricing

2.5 Dynamique 4x2 (R289 900)

2.5 Dynamique 4x4 (R314 900)

2.5 Dynamique 4x4 CVT (R339 900)

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BEAUTIFUL CITROEN DS5 MATCHES EASTERN CAPE

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Citroën South Africacould be forgiven for having the image of a dainty, pretty and lovely office. Anyone who sells cars like the brand new DS5 must come from a place made of flower petals and flavoured in strawberry cream! Actually, Citroën SA HQ is just off the smoggy N3 freeway, about 3km from a landfill site, facing parts of Alexandra township…

You have to break an egg to make an omelette they say. Citroën broke a leg again. DS5 follows the DS3 and DS4 models, which were first of the new premium DS Line. It’s the biggest of the lot yet, measuring 4.5 metres long, 1.85m wide and 1.5m high. While it’s longer than the C4 and even the previous-generation C4 Grand Picasso MPV, it’s not entirely the most spaciouscar in the market; actually it’s 25cm shorter than the C5 sedan.

DS5 first appeared on the scene as the Jean-Pierre Ploué-designed C-Sport Lounge Concept car at the 2005 Frankfurt International Motor Show. We were undoubtedly bowled over by its styling, and are mighty glad Citroen kept most of its outstanding design elements. Like the hockey-stickshaped chrome strip that extends from bonnet to B-pillar, the sweeping shoulder line and uniform chrome Citroen emblem. Come to think of it, there’s plenty of chrome on the car, including on the sides as well as the two tailpipes.

“Citroëns are known to be innovative, stylish cars and the reintroduction of the DS nomenclaturesymbolises the Brand’s ability to continuously push back the limits of the automotive experience” said Citroën South Africa MD Didier Gerard. “DS Line cars feature an inspired and unique styling, with strong bold and creative convictions. Recently we have used the DS magic in the small and medium categories. Now we move up to the large premium segment with the DS5.”

I must say monsieur Gerard, this is one potential golden goose you and your marketing and sales team will be well-advised not to curry. There’s good recent history to suggest as much though; new sales figures show that DS3 and DS4 have been outselling their C3 and C4 siblings over the past four months.

Engines and variants supplied are reflective of a number of new Citroens, including DS4 and C5. The hardworking THP motor that displaces 1.6-litres and lives alongside a turbo, makes its welcome appearance here too. For the THP 155 model it delivers 114kWand 240Nm of torque, while in the THP 200 it makes a useful 147kW and 275Nm of torque. I was surprised to discover DS5 also comes with a 6-speed manual, but it does. The other transmission choice is of course, a 6-speedautomatic. We also get an HDi 160variant that pulls out 118kW and 340Nm. Lovely thing on the road too, just like the THP 200 we drove.

And in similar vein as other DS models, the DS5 handles itself quite well when it comes to bending roads, without dipping too much into safety systems like Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), Anti-Skid Braking (ABS) , and the Electronic Stability Programme (ESP).

Just as attractive, probably even more so actually, is the inside, which features those really classy “Club” leather seats in an expensive watchstrap design, a Denon sound system, hill-start assist for those steep hills, USB ports, satellite navigation, an optional reversing camera and a speed-limiter cruise control system among others.

Citroën launched the new DS5 along some of the most scenic roads in the country, around the beautiful, pristine and very friendly Eastern Cape Province. A proper match if ever there was one. Again, the ball is now in your court Citroën South Africa. You have the right product at the right time. You’ve wowed us, now go for the public.

Citroën Pricing
THP 155 Automatic Style (R344 900)
THP 200 Manual Style (R374 900)
THP 200 Manual Sport (R395 900)
HDi 160 Sport (R399 900)

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BMW M6 CONVERTIBLE: WE HAVE MZANSI PRICES!

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BMW South Africa has released some new models, and the prices attached to them. Some of these cars, while still some time away, have also been priced for the Mzansi market. Those already on showroom floors include the 125i and X1 xDrive28i, while others like the mighty M6 Convertible are yet to be launched.

So we’ll start with what we don’t yet have, work our way down. Soft-top M6 Convertible uses the same 4.4-litre V8 twin turbofound in the M5 for its own pack of 412kW and 680Nm goodies. It’s obviously based on the 6 Series Convertible and will cost R1 485 500 at the dealer. The big X twins, X5 and X6, gain stunning diesel power through a new 3.0-litre tri-turbo (uhuh, that’s three turbos boss!) that releases 280kW and 740Nm of torque for both the X5 M50d and X6 M50d. Respectively the SUVs are priced at R954 500and R1 057 000.

At the lower end of the scale there’s a pair of 125i kids driven by either a 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic. They both produce 160kW and 310Nm. The manual will cost R343 500 and the auto R361 500 standard. That’s a lot of dough for a small hatch, hot as it may be.

Lastly the X1spawns three extra variants in the xDrive23d, xDrive28i manual and xDrive28i automatic. The xDrive23d is a R466 500 diesel stonker pulling out 150kW from its magic hat, and a booming 400Nm. Big brother xDrive28i is worth R456 500 in manual and R474 500in automatic. For that you get a 2.0-litre turbo petrol pushing 180kW and 350Nm of pulling torque.

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5-DOOR AUDI A1 SPORTBACK ARRIVES IN MZANSI

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Although the new Audi A1 Sportback doesn’t have a direct competitor per se, it’s probably easier to place it between the odd-shaped MINI Clubman and the 4 metre MINI Countryman. But don’t take our word for it. Saunter on to your nearest Audi dealership to have a look (and drive), because it’s now available to the Mzansi public.

The most obvious aspect of the A1 Sportback is that it has two extra doors, compared to the A1 hatch. That makes it a very practical car indeed. And a spacious one too. Curiously, it’s 6 millimetres wider and taller than the hatch, but wheelbase and length are exactly the same. Audi can do that, because the A1 shares its fundamental underpinnings with the 5-door Volkswagen Polo. They do this to save costs; cut up different-shaped cars out of the same block and you pocket massively.

While the interior cannot be compared to that of the A3 Sportback in terms of airiness, it does accommodate well. Here we can talk a little bit about the rear seats because they are unique. A1 Sportback is a strict 2+2 seater, meaning two passengers up front, and only two at the rear. In Mzansi it will come standard with a “bench” type rear seat though.

Unsurprisinglythe A1 Sportback is a feature hub, as I discovered during a brief stint behind the wheel in Jozi. On the menu are things like a 16.5cm retractable, centre-mounted LCD colour screenthat displays all sorts of information about the car, using the MMI drive. Control knobs for the MMI are on the dashboard itself, instead of the mid-centre console like in the A4, A6 and other bigger Audis. So this frees up more space to store little items like cell phones, cans and mugs for instance. The MMI infotainment system plays radio, CDs and MP3s through CDs or SD cards. Still no USB port from Audi I’m afraid. I was able to quickly pair up my mobile phone with the car through its Bluetooth system, and so I could hear my incoming calls through its speakers.

Engines, thankfully, reflect those found in the 3-door A1 hatch. What that means is that a 1.2-litre, 1.4-litre and 1.6-litre TDI are on the list. The 1.2-litre TFSI turbo is nice for 63kW at 4800rpm, and 160Nm between 1500rpm and 3500rpm. It’s a front-wheel-drive with a 5-speed manualgearbox, 6Jx15” steel wheels, 185/60 R15 tyres, a claimed 0 – 100km/h sprint of 11.9 seconds, and a fuel average of 5.1 litres per 100km.

Next up is the 1.4 TFSI, also with a turbo spinning it around and around. It comes in two guises. The one produces 90kW at 5000rpm, and 200Nm of torque between 1500rpm and 4000rpm. The direct injection motor is mated to either a 6-speed manual or 7-speed S tronic double clutch transmission. Audi says it can go from standstill to 100km/h in 9 seconds and average 5.4 litres per 100km in fuel consumption. While it’s not the most potent of the range, the 1.4 TFSI is probably going to be the most popular of the range, and in Gauteng it breathes quite well, showing no signs of altitude asthma.

The dynamite model is also equipped with a 1.4 TFSI, except that it releases a much greater number of horses that the other two. At 136kW made at a rather high 6200rpm, and peak torque of 250Nm between 2000rpm and 4500rpm, this car is such a sweet sensation you wonder how an RS 1 will be justified. But then again, nobody really needs a Lamborghini Aventador and its 515kW, but there it is anyway. I enjoyed this car’s response on the go, its mixture with the 7-speed S tronic (the only gearbox available for it), and the blipping noises it makes as it changes down gears.

Last engine on the list is the 1.6 TDI worth its weight in gold. Its 77kW and 250Nm are among the best in the class, and it realises 3.8 litres per 100km, according to Audi.

With the new A1 Sportback being quite the spacious catch, the current BMW 1 Series selling well and Mercedes-Benz bringing the sporty A-Classin 2013, Audi’s upcoming new modestly-designed A3 will have a hard time convincingbuyers it’s still worth its salt. Those looking to trade in their current A3s will seriously consider the A1 Sportback. And when they do decide to buy it, they’ll wonder why they would consider anything else.

Audi A1 Sportback pricing

A1 1.2 TFSI Attraction manual (R227 400)

A1 1.4 TFSI Attraction manual (R242 500)

A1 1.4 TFSI Attraction S tronic (R260 000)

A1 1.4 TFSI Ambition manual (R260 500)

A1 1.6 TDI Ambition manual (R254 500)

A1 1.4 TFSI Ambition S tronic (R278 000)

A1 1.4 TFSI S Line S tronic 136kW (R319 500)

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RENAULT BAGS GOVERNMENT TENDER

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Government fleet orders awarded to Renault South Africa saw the delivery during the first quarter of this year of over 200 Renault vehicles cars to national and local governmental departments including the Department of Defence, South African Police Services (SAPS) and KwaZulu-Natal’s (KZN) Department of Health.

Government publishes an annual tender request to which all motor manufacturers respond and quote for the 12 month period commencing in April each year. Orders are then allocated by government based on the tender pricing presented by each manufacturer explains Brian Smith, National Fleet and Pre-Owned Manager at Renault SA.

“During 2011, we also received an order from the Department of Defence for delivery of 65 of our locally manufactured Renault Sandero hatchbacks and 20 Mégane Hatch 1.9 DCIs. The orders delivered during the first quarter of this year comprised a mix of Renault models
including the Fluence sedan and Mégane Shake-It! 1.6 hatchback.

“Valerie Made is directly responsible for National Government Fleet sales and has been working long and hard to promote the Renault brand and lay the foundations for solid and long-term relationships at national and local government levels. She is doing a sterling job,” he adds.

“The buying of Renault vehicles for service delivery in KZN province has created a lot of excitement from our health officials as this this is a new brand for them. The vehicles were also readily available notwithstanding the fact that the RT57 Contract was almost on the verge of expiring,” says Bongani Khanyile the Departmental Fleet Manager for the KZN Provincial Department of Health.

“Government support of our products cannot be taken for granted and it is gratifying to see that a several Renault models have been put to the test and proven themselves to be worthy choices in terms of price, performance, size, safety and economy … in fact, everything that a fleet vehicle should be,” concludes Smith.

STORY BY RENAULT

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NEW KIA RIO SEDAN LAUNCHES IN MZANSI

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The Kia Rio hatchback launched in Mzansi last year seems to be doing ok. Because Kia SA doesn’t report its sales figures, we don’t know exactly how well, but it is estimated that over 400 units have been leaving the dealership floors since then. Now a second barrel in the ammo, in the mould of a sedan, is on sale. Oh boy, rivals better watch their backs!

“The new Kia Rio model is a revolution, not an evolution from its predecessor,” said Ray Levin, the CEO, Kia Motors South Africa. “Rio has always been a commercial success and with this new addition to the range we now have a car which is extremely attractive with a fresh feeling of sportiness, which is also suitable for family life – a sedan that people will want to buy for its new looks, as well as for its new premium feeling, generous features and interior space.”

If you remember the old Rios, then apart from a slight headache, you are probably wondering why in the world they were even allowed off the factory floors. Ugly, unrefined, staid and so last-century, Rios were mostly bought by people who didn’t have enough money to buy a decent new car but didn’t want the risk of a hand-me-downeither.

Not at anymore. Rio has become a coveted name in its segment, riding on Kia’s overall surge as a serious challenger to the likes of Chevrolet, Ford, Toyota and Volkswagen. The sedan is here to cement that rise and help double Rio’s local sales book.

The four-door Rio can be had with a choice of one of two engines and three trims: 1.2-litre, 1.4-litre and 1.4-litre TEC. Unbelievably, it is longer by 115 millimetres,15mm lower and 25mm wider than its old self, and features a wheelbase that’s 70mm longer. As if that wasn’t funk enough, Rio sedan comes in 10 different colours, including some called Bright Silver, Graphite Grey and Signal Red. The latter looks really fresh.

Kia’s engine range hasn’t fully caught up with 2012 trends yet, so they still use outdated naturally aspirated motors. However, these cannot be faulted at all, since they deliver on the promise of frugality, balanced with adequate power. The 1.2 makes 65kWat 6000rpm, and 120Nm of torque at 4000rpm. It’s hardly the stuff of icons, but is forceful enough to reach 120km/h in good time, after taking off in 13.1 seconds. Kia says it only consumes 5.4 litres per 100km of fuel.

The 1.4-litre is good for 79kW at 6300rpm, and 135Nmof torque at 4200rpm. It is said to be the fastest Rio around, with a 0 – 100km/h sprint time of 11.5 seconds and top speed of 183km/h. Impressive. Kinda. Its fuel efficiency is claimed to be 7 litres per 100km. Amazing how much damage an extra 200cc can do to your pocket. A standard 6-speed manual goes into the1.4 (archaic 4-speed auto is optional), while the 1.2 comes with a 5-speeder.

Luckily my launch drivearound the GP area consisted of a lot of town-like manoeuvring. I suppose that’s where most of these cars will be found anyway. The car felt alright, easy to drive, with a no-fuss attitude. Because this is a Kia, one expects and does find a fair amount of standard kit included in the listed price. Counted here are items like a CD player with radio functions, an auxiliary jack to plug in your USB or other external music players like iPods, climate control (only the 1.4 models) and also Bluetooth connectivity for your cell phone. Rear parking sensors and alloy foot pedals are added, but an optional sunroof is available for the 1.4 TEC.

The tyre package for 1.2 is a 15-inch steel wheel with 185/65 R15 rubber, while the 1.4 is fitted with 15-inch alloys standard. A 17-inch alloy with lower profile tyres measuring 205/45R17 will be available as an option. The 1.4 TEC comes with 17-inch alloys as standard. All models are equipped with a full-size spare wheel as well as ABS brakes with EBD.

The new Kia Rio is pitted against cars like the Volkswagen Polo sedan, Honda Ballade, Toyota Yaris sedan and Ford Fiesta sedan. Pound for pound it matches and mostly exceeds these other cars in overall specification. That it’s priced so well works in its favour too.

Kia Rio sedan Pricing

1.2 manual (R141 995)

1.4 manual (R159 995)

1.4 auto (R169 995)

1.4 TEC manual (R173 995)

1.4 TEC auto (R183 995)

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ETERNITI ARTEMIS SUV IMPRESSES CHINESE, RUSSIANS, AUSSIES

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Eterniti Motors, a new car company based in London, UK, specialises in the manufacturing of super SUVs. And yes, the cars you see here are called Artemis and are based on the Porsche Cayenne. According to Eterniti, so far a total of five of these SUVs have been sold in China so far, with strong interest from other countries.

These countries from which well-heeled people that are willing to part with at least R2.8 million a pop, include Russia, Spain, the USA and some in the Middle East. Annual production will peak at 40 units this year. So far no one in Mzansi has put down a promisory deposit for one of these.

Those who have get to play around with a 4.8-litre V8 with two turbos on boost, forcing out a filthy 441kW and 750Nm of torque. Such numbers make it the most powerful production SUV in the world today. Befittingly, it is said to hit 100km/h from standstill in 4.5 seconds, reaching top speeds of 290km/h.

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PORSCHE 918 SPYDER: DETAILS EMERGE

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The Porsche 918 Spyder, set for launch in 2013 sometime, looks like it will set some very impressive benchmarks for the entire motor industry. Porsche has just released the plug-in hybrid car’s performance figures and they are looking like real ground-breaking stuff.

Already hyper-priced from €645 000 (about R6.8 million today) in Europe, and at US$845 000 (R7 million), 918 Spyder uses a 4.6-litre V8 petrol engine, as well as two electric motors, one for each axle. A 7-speed double-clutch transmission will facilitate power and torque. A combined power figure of over 566kW should enable the car to rush off from 0 – 100km/h in less than 3 seconds. Top speed will exceed 325km/h. That part is to be expected.

What probably comes as a bit of a shocker is the amount of fuel required to power this thing. According to Porsche, the car will average a paltry 3 litres per 100km of fuel! That’s lower than the most fuel efficient small diesels from Germany and France! It will apparently be able to travel for up to 25km on electricity alone.

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NEW ENGINES AND DERIVATIVES FOR BMW 3, 5 SERIES

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There seems to be a flurryof activity in the life of BMW these days. Not that this is new, but lately it appears only full throttleis the order of the day. Because there’s so much to talk about, we’ll just try and highlight on a few items, the ones we believe are the most relevant and important for the South African market.

Firstly, a new entry-level 3 Series model has been announced. At the launch of the new 3 (F30), we spoke to the MD of BMW South Africa, who hinted at a car sitting lower than the 320i. Here comes the 316i then. Although it hasn’t been confirmed for Mzansi, we believe there is a strong case for this car which produces 100kW and 220Nm of torque from its 1.6-litre turbo. We think if not a 316i, then a 318i (125kW, 250Nm) could be the right entry point.

Secondly, the 550i Gran Turismo gets a notable power boost off its 4.4-litre twin turbo V8, from 300kW to 330kW, while torque goes from 600Nm to 650Nm. This is great news for the rest of the range, so we can expect cars like the 550i sedan, X5 xDrive50i and the 750i to follow suit when their respective updates come around. Starting with the 750i and X6 xDrive50i facelift later in the year. The 530d Gran Turismo also goes higher to 190kW and 560Nm, returning a claimed 5.8 litres per 100km.

Lastly, every model in the 5 series range will soon be specified with the optional 16 speaker Bang & Olufsen High End Surround-Sound System with a dashboard-mounted central speaker that automatically rises when power is switched off.

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