Road Review: Renault Triber 1.5 Prestige manual 

There are apparently 100 possible seating configurations available in the Renault Triber and I must confess I did not get to investigate every possibility during my time with the car – suffice it to say it is an extremely versatile small car. 

It can quickly change from a 5-seater to a 7-seater configuration, in the former offering boot space of 625 litres, while, the cabin provides reasonable for passengers in all rows. 

The SUV-inspired Renault Triber is well named and easy to see doing duty as a Mom’s Taxi ferrying a tribe of kids to soccer practice and the like. In that, it does occupy a niche space in the small SUV arena by daring to be a bit different. 

I can see, appreciate and enjoy what it set out be but my big gripe is there is no way of hiding luggage when the seats are folded away and, sadly, in this South Africa I believe that protection is vital. 

Up fron the Triber features projector headlights, daytime running lights and comes standard with roof rails that have a 50 kg load capacity. 

A ground clearance of 182 mm and SUV skid plates along with a prominent crease in the hood, strong shoulder lines, wheel arch flare and cladding suggest sturdiness. 

The modular seating configurations include:  Camp Mode [2-seater]; Surf Mode [4-seater]; Life Mode [5-seater] and Tribe Mode [7-seater] and EasyFix seats allow for the two rear seats within the third row to be completely removed with ease. 

The interior of the vehicle is equipped with stowage spaces of up to 31 litres, with a cold storage facility within the centre console and lower glove box and a drawer under the driver’s seat. 

The power steering wheel has newly introduced steering mount controls with thumb contours, while a gear shift indicator on the digital tachometer assists with driving at an optimum speed for better fuel efficiency. 

I found the 1,0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine a trifle vocal from quite early on in the rev range but the 52 kW and 96 Nm from the dual VVT system keeps it urban capable with downshifting required only on the longer and steeper hills. 

Although Renault claim 5,5 l/100 km from the five-speed manual, the overall average on the test cycle ended closer to 6,00 l/100 km – still, this equates to around 670 km on a full tank of fuel. 

The 8-inch MediaNav Evolution touchscreen comes integrated with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Voice Command button and video playback on the screen, while a Smart Access Card allows Keyless Entry and Stop/Start functionality and a Reverse Parking Camera with guidelines helps with parking in tricky situations. 

Aside from the four vents in the front row, an added feature is the two independent controls for the air-conditioner with vents on the second and third rows. 

The Triber is equipped with anti-lock braking and emergency lock retractor, 3-points safety belts in the front and second row seat belts (side only) with retractors, three-point without retractor in the third, pyrotechnic pre-tensioner driver seat belt, load limiter driver and passenger seat belts, driver and passenger crash bags and reinforced body structure. 

Triber comes standard with a two-year/ 30 000 km Service Plan, plus a five-year/150 000 km mechanical warranty and a 6-year anti-corrosion warranty. Services take place at 15 000 km intervals.

The 185/65 R15 wheels and tyres provide adequate grip for the task the Triber was designed for and the car should really be enjoyed in that context.

 

Teasing glimpse of new Kia Sportage

Design language is becoming an increasingly important buzzword for automakers re-imagining new iterations of existing models and Kia has revealed ‘teaser’ images of the fifth generation Sportage created in its new design language ‘Opposites United’. 

Due to be revealed in July in Korea, the new Sportage has been crafted to establish new benchmarks in its segment – for its advanced exterior and interior design, connectivity tech and responsive, yet highly efficient, powertrains.  

According to Kia, the new Sportage has a muscular stance and a strong yet refined silhouette. Notable new details include the crisp, taught character lines that ripple across the surfaces. The front creates an instant and thought-provoking statement, with a detail-orientated black grille graphic spanning the width of the face. At the rear, muscular shoulder lines drop gently to meet slim daytime-running lamps, which flank the new Kia logo and Sportage emblem. 

The interior design sketch reveals a driver-orientated space that plays with boldness in character, softness in qualities and innovation in technology. At the core is a beautifully sculpted integrated curved display. 

“Taking inspiration from an ethos we created where nature meets modernity, the new Sportage challenges design norms with an adventurous yet contemporary exterior and a beautifully detailed and pioneering interior,” says Karim Habib, Senior Vice President and Head of Global Design Center. “With new Sportage, we didn’t simply want to take one step forward, but rather move to a completely different level within the SUV class.”

Road Review: Suzuki Vitara Brezza 

1.5 GLX manual

Cars should be fun to drive, whether it is just the daily trudge to and from work or heading out on the highway to your happy place, the car should be more than just transport. From its broad S-toothed smile at the front to the neat and comfortably appointed interior, the Vitara Brezza exudes a ‘Let’s Play’ attitude. 

It is no wonder then, the Brezza became the fastest compact to reach 500 000 unit sales in India. 

Given the price point of the 1,5-litre GLX version at R289 900 plus the level of specification and that fun to drive feel, the Brezza is somewhat of a no-brainer choice when it comes to looking for a new car – even against the slightly lower price of the Toyota Urban Cruiser that is a Vitara Brezza rebadged. 

What does set the Brezza apart is the fact even though it is a small car – 3 995 mm long by 1 790 mm wide – it simply does not have that cramped small car feel. Rather, the internal space has been cleverly worked to provide a decently spacious feel and still leave a reasonable boot space of 328 litres. 

Again, rather than struggling with a small capacity engine, the Brezza’s 1,5-litres produces 77 kW at 6 000 r/min and 138 Nm at 4 000 r/min so it easily serves the urban cruiser mould as well as being more than comfortable and capable to take on the longer haul trips. 

The Vitara Brezza was first introduced in India in 2016, with an upgraded model that arrived in 2020. The first generation Vitara was available in South Africa through a direct importer in the late eighties and early nineties and the Grand Vitara led the charge when Suzuki Auto officially opened its doors in South Africa in 2008. 

The Vitara was launched in 2015 and upgraded with Suzuki’s Boosterjet engine in 2019. 

The GLX rides on 16-inch diamond-cut and polished alloy wheels as standard. 

The near-solid chrome grille stretches from end-to-end between the front lights that are finished with a chrome brow and LED daytime running lights, which pure LEDs on the GLX to accompany the automatic projector main LED headlamps. 

The signature Suzuki SUV look continues on the side of the Vitara Brezza, with hard-wearing polycarbonate side mouldings above the door sill. Add to this wheel arch extensions on all models, functional roof rails and colour-coded mirrors with LED indicators. 

At the rear, the U-shaped rear bumper and skid plate mirror the design of the front bumper and tie together the SUV design. Suzuki has also added a spoiler on the rear hatch door and an embossed chrome garnish above the number plate enclosure, which proudly carry the Vitara Brezza name. 

Inside there is a 7-inch touch screen infotainment system, which is standard across the range and which forms the centrepiece of the dashboard. 

The system is fitted as standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and it will display the image from the reverse camera, when engaged. Bluetooth, an auxiliary input and a USB port are also standard, while all models allow the driver hands-free control of the system and the phone interface from the steering wheel buttons or voice command system. 

Suzuki has also added automatic climate control, power windows all-round, a height-adjustable driver’s seat, rear parking sensors, remote central locking and a rear armrest with integrated cup holders as standard across the range. 

In the GLX-model, the steering wheel is leather clad and has additional buttons for the cruise control system along with adjustable mood lighting with five customisable colours and additional interior lights in the foot well, glove box and the luggage compartment. 

The GLX model also adds a centre armrest for the front occupants and a push-button starter that works in combination with the standard keyless entry-system and the top of two glove boxes is air-conditioned. 

Other GLX-only luxuries include height adjustable front seatbelts, an auto-dimming rear mirror, auto-folding side mirrors, automatic rain-sensing windshield wipers, a 12V port in the luggage area and additional tweeters for more immersive sound from the infotainment system. 

In the Vitara Brezza, active safety systems include anti-lock brakes with emergency brake-force distribution and brake-assistance, crash bags for the driver and front passenger, pre-tensioners and force limiters on all seatbelts and ISOFIX-mountings for child seats. 

Passive safety, in turn, is taken care of by the Total Effective Control Technology (TECT) structure. This body structure was designed by Suzuki to be both incredibly strong and light and it has won industry acclaim for the effective dispersing of crash energy away from the occupants. The Vitara Brezza’s TECT-structure also includes side-impact beams in the doors for added protection. 

All models also have a high-mounted LED stop lamp, a rear window-demister and a rear wiper with integrated washer as standard. 

The Vitara Brezza has an electrically assisted rack and pinion steering system and is equipped with a McPherson strut front suspension and torsion beam rear suspension. 

All of that does little to convey the fun feeling referred to at the beginning of this review – that comes with getting behind the wheel and taking it for a drive. Sure, it is not going win many robot drag races but it sits squarely on the road and responds quickly and accurately to steering instructions while scooting along at highway or urban speeds as needed. 

Fuel consumption on average is around the 6,4 l/100 km mark and it will get to 170 km/h after taking 11,8 seconds to accelerate to 100 km/h. The 1,5-litre petrol engine is not quick revving still, keep your foot pinned down and you will like the way engine winds in the top-end of the rev band. For average needs, performance is more than acceptable.

 

Good cause to celebrate

This year is an important one for Daimler Trucks & Buses with several anniversaries being celebrated from the 125 years of the first truck as presented by Gottlieb Daimler in 1896 to 25 years of the Actros. 

Michael Dietz, CEO of Daimler Trucks & Buses Southern Africa says: “It is such an honour and privilege to commemorate these key milestones and to be a part of this strong heritage. What makes these remarkable accomplishments special is remembering where it all started, and who has been with us throughout this journey. 

“Our esteemed customers, who have placed their trust in our products, our employees across all sections who remained committed in making sure that we have the right products for our customers, and lastly our dealer partners for serving our customers diligently. As Daimler Trucks & Buses Southern Africa (DTBSA) our ambition is to remain the truck & bus brand our customers want to associate with.” 

1896 – The first truck

When Gottlieb Daimler presented his first truck in 1896 – sporting iron-clad wooden wheels – the world certainly hadn't been waiting for this vehicle. In Germany no buyer could be found and in England where the vehicle was finally sold, a member of the crew had to walk ahead, waving a red flag to warn other road users. 

And yet, this four-horsepower conveyance with a rear two-cylinder engine and a displacement of 1,06 litres known as the Phoenix was to spark an unparalleled success story in the transportation of cargo. 

However the Phoenix had little in common with a proper truck: strictly speaking it was a converted wagon typical of those then pulled through the streets by horses. Its chassis was fitted with leaf-springs that were mounted transversely at the front and helical springs at the rear. 

The suspension wasn't just necessary because of the poor condition of the roads, but also because the engine was very susceptible to vibrations. 

The last section of the drivetrain was modern: a belt transferred the engine power to a shaft that was mounted transversely to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle. Each end of the shaft was fitted with a pinion, a small gear wheel. Each tooth on the pinion meshed with the internal teeth of a ring gear which was firmly connected with the wheel to be driven. Much later this construction was to become a design trademark of Mercedes-Benz trucks: the planetary hub reduction axle – on the ‘new generation’, on the SK (heavy-duty class) and even today on construction vehicles. 

1946 – The first Unimog prototype

In 1946 the ‘Prototype 1’ Unimog completed its first test drive. Chief designer Heinrich Rößler himself was at the wheel, and he tested the prototype, which had no cab and was fully laden with wood, on rough forest roads near Schwäbisch-Gmünd. The creation of the Unimog is closely linked to the difficult situation in the post-war period, when Germany was suffering supply shortages. 

In 1945 and 1946, there was a dire lack of food. It was this situation that gave Albert Friedrich, who for many years was head of aircraft engine development at Daimler-Benz AG, the idea of an agricultural motorised vehicle which could help to increase agricultural productivity. 

After the war ended, Friedrich had renewed his contacts with Erhard & Söhne, a metal construction company and supplier of Daimler-Benz in Schwäbisch-Gmünd, and in December 1945 the department responsible for the agricultural market began work. 

Friedrich passed the leadership of the project on to his former subordinate, designer Heinrich Rößler, who took up the post on  January 2, 1946. In only a few weeks, a new overall design was developed, with the engine and gearbox positioned directly to the right of the vehicle's centre. 

This meant that the torque tubes – which protect the drive shafts – could be at right angles to the axles. As a result, only four drive joints were needed for the chassis. This was a brilliant design which, 75 years later, is still used for the Unimog of the highly mobile U 4023/U 5023 series. 

In March 1946, Hans Zabel from Gaggenau, who had been part of the project from the beginning, coined the term Unimog (Universal-Motor-Gerät, ie universally applicable motorised machine) and in October 1946 the vehicle was taken on its first test drive. 

1951 – The first Setra bus

The Setra brand is proud of its roots. In1951 Ulm-based Kässbohrer Fahrzeugwerke presented the S 8 and gave the brand its name – Setra – which stands for ‘self-supporting’. 

The first bus manufactured in series production with a self-supporting body, rear engine and direct drive to the rear axle was presented at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt. 

Over the last 70 years the brand has not only set standards for European bus design with six model series, but has inspired, changed and advanced this sector in an exemplary fashion. 

The current flagship of this traditional brand which has always stood for the highest degree of individuality is the S 531 DT, a double-decker bus from the Setra TopClass 500 range. 

1996 – Mercedes-Benz Actros

At the end of September 1996 Mercedes-Benz presented a new heavy-duty truck at the IAA Commercial Vehicles that was to revolutionise the industry: the Actros was the first truck to be fitted with disk brakes and the electronic brake system (EBS). Together they made the Actros the safest vehicle in its class. 

Furthermore, innovative technology such as the ‘Telligent systems’ improved efficiency considerably. Amongst other things maintenance intervals were extended by more than double, fuel consumption was reduced by three to seven percent depending on the type of operation and payload was increased by up to 400 kg. 

Safety and comfort were also significantly improved. Thanks to the Telligent braking system with disk brakes, for example, it was possible to shorten the braking distance of the Actros travelling at a speed of 85 km/h by the length of a tractor/trailer combination. The design engineers also paid great attention to detail: a new type of wing lining reliably reduced the spray when driving in rain. 

Environmental compatibility was also improved with newly developed, more efficient V-engines and by improvements to vehicle assembly for example: here energy input was reduced by almost 50 percent. New cabs provided their occupants with up to 47% more space in the interior and were designed to meet the specific needs of the driver. 

The cabs were safer too – they had all passed the huge range of different crash tests both in simulation and real driving conditions. The airbags and seats with integrated seat belt tensioner were also new. Every newly presented Actros was voted ‘Truck of the year’ and even today the Actros remains a pioneer with regard to safety. 

“Looking ahead, the future is certainly bright and exciting for the DTBSA brands, as there is a rapid shift in the truck & bus industry to autonomous driving, electrification and connectivity. As we adapt to these evolutions, we remain resolute and committed to continue to provide our customers with reliable, fuel efficient, and safe vehicles to address their demanding business needs,” says Maretha Gerber, Head of Mercedes-Benz Trucks.

 Big weekend of racing at Aldo Scribante

There is a big weekend in the offing for Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), which will host the third round of the 2021 Global Touring Cars (GTC) championship as well as the Volkswagen Polo Cup this weekend, at the Aldo Scribante Race Circuit. 

Toyota is hoping for a good showing in GTC that will offer Michael van Rooyen the opportunity to extend his lead at the top of the championship standings. 

“We head to Aldo with a lead of only one point over Robert Wolk (Toyota Corolla), so there’s a tight battle on at the moment,” says Van Rooyen. 

The Toyota Gazoo Racing SA Corolla driver has been embroiled in a chase for the title with Wolk since the opening race of the season, and the ding-dong battle is clearly set to continue in Gqeberha. 

“We’ve done some more testing, and refined our car even further,” continues the Rustenburg Rocket, as Van Rooyen is also known. “To make things even more interesting, this weekend’s second race will be contested over a period of 30 minutes, which is always interesting.” 

At the same time, Van Rooyen’s teammate, Mandla Mdakane, is looking forward to the weekend from a different perspective: “We’ve been getting to grips with the new car as well as GTC racing in general, but I’ve gained a lot of confidence since the start of the season. I know the Aldo Scribante layout well, and I’m hoping for a strong result this weekend.” 

Mdakane is currently in 5^th place in the title chase, but with only 16 points separating him from the lead, and a gap of only four points to 4^th place, the Johannesburg-based driver will be on the hunt for valuable points in Gqeberha. 

It is also a big weekend for Volkswagen, which has its manufacturing home in nearby Kariega (Uitenhage) and Mike Rowe, head of Volkswagen Motorsport says: “We are big supporters of circuit racing in the country and we are excited about the prospect of seeing how the youngsters battle it out in one of the country’s most successful racing series.” 

Unfortunately, the battle will once again be fought in front of empty grandstands as motor sport continues to run under a set of strict pandemic regulations. 

If the previous round at Zwartkops is anything to go by, the Volkswagen Polo Cup should once again provide the highlights of the weekend. After three separate races at Zwartkops, less than a single second is all that separated Leyton Fourie and Arnold Neveling at the end of the day. As a result, Fourie’s name appears at the top of the points table, a mere 3 points ahead of Neveling. Round 1 winner Jurie Swart lurks in third, ahead of Natalian Clynton Bezuidenhout and Jayden Els. 

The Volkswagen Polo Cup will however not be the only source of action on the day as several drivers in the SupaCup category of the Global Touring Car (GTC) series will aim to close the gap to the championship points leader. 

Bradley Liebenberg was dominant in the opening round, but arch rival Jeffrey Kruger fought back with a win at Zwartkops. The result is a 8 point lead in Liebenberg’s favour. Volkswagen Motorsport’s Jonathan Mogotsi missed out on a maiden victory at Zwartkops and will be more than determined to make amends in Gqeberha. He is currently third in the championship with youngster Saood Variawa hot on his heels.

Volvo's Torslanda plant becomes 

climate-neutral 

With no net increase in the emission of greenhouse gases as a result of the electricity and heating used by the plant, Volvo’s Torslanda facility has become climate-neutral and the first of its car manufacturing operations to reach that status. 

This makes Torslanda the second plant in its overall manufacturing network to reach this status, after the Skövde engine plant in Sweden became climate neutral in 2018. 

The Torslanda plant, the company’s oldest, has been powered by climate-neutral electricity since 2008. It now also has climate-neutral heating. Half of the plant’s heating comes from biogas, while the other half is predominantly sourced from district heating through industrial waste heat. 

“Establishing Torslanda as our first climate-neutral car plant is a significant milestone,” says Javier Varela, Head of Industrial Operations and Quality at Volvo Cars. “We are committed to having a climate-neutral manufacturing network by 2025, and this achievement is a sign of our determination as we consistently work to reduce our impact on the environment.” 

Apart from becoming climate neutral, Torslanda also constantly reduces the amount of energy it uses. Targeted improvements in its operations during 2020 resulted in annualised energy savings of almost 7 000 megawatt-hour (MWh), equal to the annual energy usage of more than 450 Swedish family homes. 

In the coming years, Volvo Cars plans to make further efficiency upgrades to the plant’s lighting and heating systems, among other things, which should result in additional annual energy savings of around 20 000 MWh by 2023. These energy savings are part of a wider ambition for Volvo Cars to reduce energy usage per car produced in its manufacturing network by 30% in 2025. 

In addition, Volvo Cars will develop its own renewable electricity generation capacity on-site. 

Volvo Cars’ climate-neutral manufacturing target is part of the company’s climate plan, one of the most ambitious in the automotive industry. The centrepiece of the plan is Volvo Cars’ ambition to electrify its entire line-up.

Yet the plan goes beyond addressing tailpipe emissions through all-out electrification and also seeks to tackle carbon emissions in the company’s wider operations, its supply chain and through recycling and reuse of materials by embracing the circular economy.

 The apple of your eye

Just one engine option is on offer for South African buyers of the new Audi Q2 that comes in 17 mm longer than before and showcases apple green as a new body colour. 

Although marginally longer, the wheelbase of 2,60 metres, the width of 1,79 metres, and the height of 1,508 metres remain the same. 

In terms of styling, Audi designers have applied the motif of the polygon, which already characterised the front and shoulder line, to the rear end as well where the bumper has an integrated angular diffuser insert with large pentagons on both sides. 

The front has also been modified and the surfaces below the headlights have a more distinctive shape. The large implied air inlets, which are also pentagonal, also appear even more expressive, especially in the S line trim line. 

In addition to the basic version, Audi offers the advanced and S line exterior trim lines. In the basic version, the attachments in the lower area of the body are grained black; in the Advanced line, they are painted in Manhattan grey, and in the S line, they are painted in the body colour. All lines include mirror housings in the body colour, and the front entries feature aluminium strips. The optional black styling package further enhances the Q2’s expressive exterior design with black accents and elements. 

Even in the standard version, the revised Q2 illuminates the road with LED headlights and Audi will install the new Matrix LED headlights upon request. 

The compact SUV is launched in the South African market with one engine offering. The 1.4 TFSI that powers the Q2 35 TFSI has an output of 110 kW and produces 250 Nm of torque. The sprint from 0 to 100 km/h takes 8,8 seconds; its peak is 213 km/h. The vehicle is fitted with an 8-speed tiptronic gearbox. 

In the basic interior, standard or sport seats are available with fabric upholstery or a combination of leather and leatherette (artificial leather). Standard seat upholstery includes script fabric in black. Sports seats are available in index fabric as standard and is finished off in black with rock grey accents. Sports seats can be optionally upgraded with leather / leatherette upholstery or as part of the S line interior package, these are finished off in black colour with rock grey stitching. The upholstery also features embossed S logos on the backrest in the latter offering. 

Customers who order the contour ambient lighting package can choose from 10 colours to add visual lighting personality to the interior of the new Audi Q2. As part of this package, the decorative inserts within the cabin are able to light up as well. 

Audi offers four distinct local equipment packages: 

Comfort Package: electric tailgate; 4-way lumbar support; seat heaters in front; storage and luggage compartment package with two rear USB’s. 

Tech Package: MMI navigation plus; Audi smartphone interface; Audi virtual cockpit. 

Black styling package: only available on the Advanced and S line models and includes Singleframe in black; front and rear bumper trims in black; exterior mirrors in black; side blade in black; 19-inch 10-spoke Y style wheels in black; sports suspension. This package is only available with the Advanced and S line models. 

S line interior package: only available on the Advanced and S line models and includes decorative inserts in matte brushed aluminium; S line emblems; headliner in black fabric; interior aluminium look; pedal and foot rest in stainless steel; scuff plates with aluminium inserts in front and illuminated with “S” logo as well. This package is only available with the Advanced and S line models. 

Standard equipment includes the progressive steering, which becomes more and more direct the further the driver turns the steering wheel. Since the model is front-wheel drive, wishbones and MacPherson suspension struts guide the front wheels and a torsion-beam structure is installed in the rear. 

The sport suspension lowers the body by 10 millimetres (standard with the S line model). The Audi drive select dynamic handling system enables the driver to configure the drive, steering assistance, and other systems in five modes: auto, efficiency, comfort, dynamic, and individual. 

With roughly 20 centimetres of ground clearance, the compact SUV also does well on unpaved roads. The ESC stabilisation control has an integrated offroad mode. 

The new Audi Q2 comes standard with a five year Audi Freeway Plan. 

Audi Q2 35 TFSI                        R545,500

Audi Q2 35 TFSI Advanced       R567,500

Audi Q2 35 TFSI S line               R581,500

 New engines and spec for Range Rover Velar

Range Rover’s lifestyle on wheels, the Velar, has been updated and now fitted with Land Rover’s infotainment system, Pivi and Pivi Pro. The intelligent and intuitive system, offered as Pivi Pro from an S-specification pack, transforms the digital experience inside Velar. 

Pivi is designed around ease of use, with a simple interface reducing the number of interactions to enhance safety and software updates are ‘over-the-air’ reducing the need to visit a retailer. An embedded data connection means customers have access to the latest maps, apps and vehicle software modules with updates scheduled via the touchscreen at a time to suit them. 

It is also fitted with Active Road Noise Cancellation. The technology works like a pair of high-end noise cancellation headphones, constantly monitoring vibrations from the road surface and calculating the opposite phase sound wave needed to remove the noise heard by the occupants. The effect is subtle, but the minimum reduction of 4 decibels ensures an even more refined and calming interior space. 

Also available is the new second-generation wearable Activity Key, which can totally replace the traditional key fob when necessary. The water-resistant and shock-proof wrist device now incorporates an LCD watch and allows customers to start, stop, lock and unlock the vehicle, with no need to take a traditional key fob out with them. 

The new Range Rover Velar is also fitted with a suite of new cameras enabling two key new features – 3D Surround Camera and ClearSight Ground View, both of which are fitted as standard. The 3D Surround Camera displays a real-time external 3D perspective of the vehicle via the 10-inch touchscreen – useful for low-speed manoeuvres such as parking by a kerb and getting in and out of tight spaces or junctions. The 3D surround camera can even display a plan view from above – seemingly making the car appear transparent, a feature useful for manoeuvring across different terrains. 

The 3D Surround Camera stitches together camera feeds to offer a virtual view underneath the bonnet, rendering it seemingly invisible. Cameras positioned in the front grille and on the door mirrors offer an accurate representation of different terrain or potential hazards. A virtual 180-degree view helps make manoeuvring easier at speeds up to 30 km/h. 

The new Range Rover Velar has an expanded engine choice to suit every customer, with the new P400e plug-in hybrid (PHEV), a new family of in-line six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines and more efficient four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines. 

The new 2,0-litre four-cylinder P400e plug-in hybrid offers 297 kW and 640 Nm of torque from its 221 kW petrol engine and 105 kW electric motor, with 0-100 km/h in 5,4 seconds. A 17,1 kWh lithium-ion battery, located under the boot floor, can be charged to 80%t in 30 minutes using a fast DC charge point, or 1 hour 40 minutes using a standard 7 kW wallbox. 

A new family of 3,0-litre straight-six Ingenium engines has also been introduced to the Range Rover Velar.  The P340 delivers 250mkW and 480 Nm of torque, with acceleration from 0 -100 km/h in 6., seconds. The straight-six Ingenium petrol engine is lightweight – with a 12,9 kg saving on the unit it replaces – and features mild-hybrid (MHEV) technology. 

Meanwhile, the new straight-six D300 diesel engine is also 7 kg lighter than the previous V6, producing 221 kW and 650 Nm of torque to deliver 0-100km/h in 6,5 seconds. 

A next-generation 2,0-litre, four-cylinder Ingenium diesel engine – badged D200 – now replaces the previous D180 and D240 options, producing 147 kW and 430 Nm with fuel consumption of up 6,3 l/100 km. The P250, a 2,0-litre, four-cylinder Ingenium petrol produces 184 kW and 365 Nm while returning an average fuel consumption of 7,8 l/100 km.

 

Larger Hyundai i20 gains a new 1,0-litre turbo engine 

There is a pleasantly energetic response when flooring the throttle of the new Hyundai i20 1,0-litre turbo but, more significantly, the slighter larger new model adds very welcome shoulder room for passengers. 

With a design inspired by Hyundai’s new ‘Sensuous Sportiness’ identity, a new engine in the range and a cabin that is roomier, it launches locally with two specification levels, Motion and Fluid and is the third generation of Hyundai’s B-segment model which was first launched globally in 2008, and in 2009 in South Africa. 

“We are launching the all-new i20 with the confidence a five-door hatchback has a definite slot in the local car market – the sales figures and customer’s preferences give credence to our faith in the product. It is also a strong contender in the market for rental cars,” says Stanley Anderson, sales and operations director of Hyundai Automotive South Africa. 

“While the outgoing i20 was a very popular and successful model in our range, we expect the new model with its fresh, sporty styling and the new 1-litre turbo engine to appeal to an even wider audience.” 

The purpose of the new design direction is to create emotional value and to give Hyundai’s vehicles a distinctive new look. 

At the side, a bold side character line and unique C-pillar design create an appealing look. Meanwhile, the interior space achieves an airy feeling inside the cockpit, while appearing sculptured and appealing. One design highlight is the horizontal blades that cover the high and prominent dashboard. Dynamic proportions also improve roominess and visibility. 

The i20 range, driven through the front wheels, features a new engine in the form of a turbo-charged 3-cylinder petrol power plant offering a maximum power output of 90 kW. It is linked to either a 7-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT) or a 6-speed manual transmission. 

Two naturally aspirated petrol engines – the 1.2 Kappa petrol engine, linked to a 5-speed manual gearbox, and the 1.4 MPi, matched to a 6-speed automatic transmission – are used in the other variants in the i20 range. 

The new car gains a wider body (+41 mm) and increased length (+10 mm), while the wheelbase has also been increased by 10 mm. Ground clearance is 170 mm – an increase of 20 mm compared to the previous model. 

“The all-new i20 features our new Sensuous Sportiness design identity. We enhanced the proportions to create a dynamic and emotional design. As a result, the all-new i20 is a car that speaks to your senses,” says Thomas Bürkle, chief designer at the Hyundai Motor Company’s Design Centre in Rüsselsheim, Germany. 

The Fluid derivatives get newly designed 16-inch alloy wheels with 15-inch steel wheels and silver covers for the Motion. 

Exterior colour choices range from Titan Grey to Polar White, Starry Night, Fiery Red, Typhoon Silver and Phantom Black, complemented by two 2-tone colour schemes: Fiery Red with a black roof, and Polar White with a black roof. 

The enlarged wheelbase provides increased seating space for passengers in the rear, with rear passengers able to enjoy 88 mm more leg room and 40 mm more shoulder room than in the previous generation. 

Boot space has been increased while a decreased beltline and a small, quarter-fixed glass window behind the rear door provide drivers with improved visibility. Available as a five-door hatchback, the all-new i20 can seat up to five people. 

Interior trim choices range from mono-tone cloth for the Motion and 1.2 Fluid derivatives to dual-tone cloth seats for the 1.2 Fluid 2-Tone; mono-tone artificial leather for the 1.0 Fluid; and dual-tone artificial leather for the 1.0 Fluid 2-Tone derivative. 

Convenience items inclue powe folding mirrors for the Fluid variants, a rear-view monitor with guidelines displayed on the infotainment system’s screen, air-vents for rear passengers in the Fluid variants, a USB charging socket and cell phone storage space for rear passengers, a multi-function steering wheel with radio and telephone control buttons and a cruise-control function on the steering wheel for Fluid variants.

The new 10,25-inch digital instrument cluster in front of the driver and high-resolution 8-inch centre touchscreen for the infotainment system have been visually combined and there is a wireless charging pad in the centre console with two front USB charging ports in all variants – one for connectivity and one for charging in the middle console, while another charging port is available for rear passengers in the Fluid variants. 

At the front McPherson struts with dampers and coil springs are used for the suspension, while a coupled torsion beam axle with dampers and coil springs are employed at the rear. The Motor Driven Power Assisted Steering (MDPS) delivers accurate lines through corners and adds stability to the i20’s road manners. 

The new i20 has been built with a reinforced body structure – a key area which is critical to occupant safety. The i20’s body is reinforced with 36% advanced high-strength steel. 

Passive safety systems in the new i20 include six crash bags (driver, front passenger and two curtain bags) in the Fluid variants, and driver and front passenger crash bags in the Motion derivatives. 

An anti-lock braking system and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) are standard features in the whole range. 

Pricing

1.2 Motion manual: R275 900

1.4 Motion automatic: R305 900

1.2 Fluid manual: R289 900

1.2 Fluid manual – 2-Tone: R294 900

1.0 TGDI Fluid manual: R330 900

1.0 TGDI Fluid manual – 2-Tone: R335 900

1.0 TGDI Fluid DCT: R355 900

1.0 TGDI Fluid DCT – 2-Tone: R360 900

It comes with a 7-year/200 000 km manufacturer’s warranty, a 4-year / 60 000 km service plan and 7-year / 150 000 km roadside assistance.

 

Limited edition Mustang Mach 1 coupe 

Just 90 units of the 338 kW Ford Mustang Mach 1 Fastback coupé have been allocated to the South African market.

“The Mustang has achieved legendary status as a performance icon around the world, and in South Africa too,” says Doreen Mashinini, General Manager for Marketing at Ford South Africa. “The remarkable success of the Mustang Bullitt proved South Africans have an appetite for exclusive, limited-edition models and we are proud to extend the Mustang’s rich heritage with the launch of the Mach 1.

“Like the 1969 original, the Mustang Mach 1 bridges the gap between the standard Mustang GT and the high-performance Shelby models, delivering V8 power, unique functional aerodynamic enhancements, competition-capable suspension upgrades and a driver-focused cockpit.”

It becomes the most track-capable 5,0-litre Mustang yet, courtesy of a newly designed front end, plus Ford Performance parts derived from the Mustang Shelby GT350 and Shelby GT500 models.

The performance of the specially calibrated 5,0-litre V8 engine matches that of the Mustang Bullitt, producing 338 kW of power and 529 Nm of torque. Mach 1 buyers can select the high-performance six-speed manual transmission derived from the Shelby GT350, or there is the option of Ford’s 10-speed automatic. Both transmissions receive numerous performance, cooling and calibration enhancements that are specific to the Mach 1.

Visually, the Mach 1 is easily identifiable by the bold Mach 1 grille that pays tribute to the original, along with extensive use of low-gloss Magnetic dark grey and black accents.

This is complemented by a rear spoiler that helps the Mach 1 generate 22% more downforce than the Mustang GT with Performance Pack, which is standard in South Africa, as well as a rear axle cooling system and lower diffuser sourced from the mighty Shelby GT500.

New 19-inch five-spoke Tarnished Dark-painted aluminium wheels are a modern interpretation of the classic Mach 1 Magnum 500 style wheels, fitted with 255/40R19 tyres in front and 275/40R19 versions at the rear, giving the Mach 1 a sportier, more aggressive demeanour and enhanced handling prowess.

To further improve ride and handling, the Mach 1 features the latest MagneRide adaptive suspension, new performance-oriented electric power steering calibration, stiffer sway bars and front springs, an upgraded brake booster, a rear subframe with stiffer bushings and a rear toe-link from the Shelby GT500. And, as expected of a track-focused Mustang, the available Drive Modes includes a Track mode, and Track Apps with Launch Control.

All units destined for South Africa are painted in distinctive metallic Fighter Jet Grey with the Appearance Package as standard. Other distinctive elements include satin black bonnet and side stripes with orange accents, and orange-painted brake callipers. Additionally, the front fenders feature the legendary ‘Mach 1’ badging which reaffirms this model’s iconic lineage.

The same theme is carried through to the cabin thanks to orange seatback accents, and a Dark Spindrift instrument panel with aluminium accents. Other interior upgrades include new door sill plates, an updated splash screen on the 12,3-inch full LCD instrument cluster, Mach-1-branded door-sill scuff plates, and engraved badging on the instrument panel that displays the vehicle’s unique chassis number to reinforce its special, limited-edition status.

#ford #mustang #cars #carporn #sportscars #driving #motoring #ontheroad #carlifestyle

Shortages crimp truck sales 

Truck sales in South African for 2021 are likely to fall short of their potential due to ongoing stick shortages, according to Leslie Long, Senior Manager – Product Planning and Marketing at Hino SA.

With a potential of around 25 000 units for the year, he expects the shortages to limit that to 24 000 units.

“We have been surprised at the quick recovery of the local truck market after the pandemic-induced lockdowns and stress of 2020 but believe that a realistic growth figure for 2021 over 2020 will be 9%, based on a predicted market of 24 000 units. We are aiming to increase our share of this market to 11,3% by selling 2 700 Hino trucks in 2021, compared to our penetration of 9,7% last year,” explained Long.

Hino suffered from a shortage of medium, trucks towards the end of 2020 and in the first quarter of 2021 as the previous model was being run out. The company believes its revised model line-up, which answers the requirements of specific customers, will provide a significant increase in its 300-Series sales in 2021. Hino is also looking for growth in both the heavy and extra-heavy market segments with its 500- and 700-series models during 2021.

Ernie Trautmann, the Vice President of Hino SA, said he was immensely proud of the quick and efficient way the dealer network reacted to the changes in business practice due to the COVID-19 pandemic. He said the positive attitude of the dealers resulted in Hino retaining its dominant placing in the quarterly DATATrack competitive customer care truck studies.

“We have not lost any of our dealers and none of them are at risk, which is very satisfying and underlines their effective management strategies,” says Trautman. “There were some retrenchments, but it was a case of identifying those employees who could rise to the occasion and those who could not when identifying what was needed to ensure the sustainability of these businesses.

“Our big thrust at Hino is these troubled times since March 2020 has been on training, which we were able to switch quickly from on-site to digital. We were able to provide extensive online training from June and extended this to all our meetings. The dealers have all set up dedicated training facilities and we can have meetings with our dealers whenever necessary, which is usually for an hour on a Friday morning.

“Our important driver training programme is also up to speed in line with the necessary COVID-19 protocols in place. The result of this on-site driver training is well proven in terms of fuel saving and reducing wear and tear on the truck, so we are expanding this service to our customer base.

“We are currently putting all Hino head office and dealer staff through a 12-month qwdsa course in line with our move from just being a truck supplier to becoming an organisation that can offer the best logistics solution to meet the requirements of our customers.

Looking to the future, Trautmann said Hino was globally focused on Challenge 2025 which targeted improving safety, the environment and efficiency through best-fit trucks, Total Support for all Hino stakeholders and engaging in new activities such as electrification, although the Hino SA Vice President said the ultimate future for trucks was the use hydrogen as an energy source and Hino was already involved in projects involving fuel cell technology

In terms of best-fit trucks in the local market, Trautmann said that Hino was now even more competitive as the new 300-Series was a significant step forward in the medium truck market, while the 500-Series underwent a model change recently and the 700-Series will be refreshed towards the end of 2021.

Masaki Yamamoto, the Chief Engineer for medium-duty trucks at Hino Japan, said revised gear ratios and the use of a six-speed transmission in certain models, instead of a five speeder, will contribute to improving fuel consumption in the new 300-Series, while drivers of those models with a manual gearbox will appreciate the benefits of the Easy Drive hill start system, which prevents rollbacks on inclines until the clutch is engaged. The automatic transmission, which has been extended into more models in the revised range, already has this feature.

 The Hino engineer added that another plus feature of the new model was the change made to the chassis to make it easier for truck bodybuilders to mount bodies, while retaining the integrity of the chassis rails.

#Hino #trucks #trucking #transport #logistics #fleetmanagement