Colin-on-Cars - Hung(a)ry for a Porsche 912

Often touted by Porsche fans as being the most perfectly balanced of its era, the 912 has a stellar reputation for outstanding handling and drive from the 4-cylinder engine.

Something of a collector’s item, a Budapest-based automaker called KAMM Manufaktur, is creating a ‘restomod’ dedicated to creating the perfect interpretation of the legendary 912 sports car.

Founded by Miklós Kázmér in Budapest, Hungary, KAMM focuses solely on the 912 sports car produced between 1965-1969. The 912 may not be an obvious choice for a restomod, but its slim, simple lines, outstanding handling and iconic 4-cyliner engine makes the 912 the perfect choice for a KAMM creation.

Electronics

The KAMM 912c is a modern take on the 60s sports car icon but, in an age where electronics take over many of the driver inputs, the KAMM 912c offers something different in the world of restomods in that it maintains the charm of a 1960s racer, with sensitive updates, instead of trying to completely modernise the 912 driving experience.

Taking an original 912, KAMM engineers restore every donor car to perfection, providing the perfect basis for a bespoke creation. Steel is replaced with carbon, seamlessly blended without trace, ensuring flawless fit and finish.

KAMM engineers enhance the chassis, brakes suspension, wheels and tyres and replace all original elements with brand new, factory parts including lights, fixings, and rubbers.

Track

Whilst the KAMM 912c is perfectly at home on the race track, the car has also been designed to be used regularly as a road car. KAMM developed the 912c to appeal to drivers seeking an updated classic racer experience with a truly analogue feel. Rear seats can remain, audio options are suggested, luggage areas are carefully trimmed, and air-conditioning has been added for cabin comfort on road and track.

KAMM founder Miklós Kázmér says, “The KAMM 912c has been years in the making, and I am proud to share my vision of the perfect 912 to the world. Budapest has a surprisingly well-developed car culture born out of a desire for individuality. During the socialistic era, drivers had to be creative, home-tuning whatever cars they could get hold of into race machines.

“This love of car culture, and a burning desire to make whatever was available as fast and as beautiful as possible, spawned a talented and dedicated Budapest car scene. In the 90s things changed as borders opened and Hungarians gained access to western cars and Hungarian car enthusiasts evolved. KAMM is a proud son of Budapest car culture, striving to turn original classic cars into fast, reliable, and perfected versions of themselves, all whilst keeping the analogue driving experience intact.”

https://bit.ly/3qlgnKb

Colin-on-Cars - Car of the Year finalists named

The Top 25 Finalists for the 2022 South African Car of the Year (COTY) competition have been announced. by the South African Guild of Mobility Journalists (SAGMJ), which has run the event continuously since 1986.

“This year’s COTY finalists show us the tremendous speed of research and development in the automotive industry. The finalists represent the best of the best in South Africa, and we are eager to see who the winners of this year’s competition will be,” says Carl Wepener, Chairman of the SAGMJ.

Volkswagen Golf GTi

Besides the overall winner’s crown, finalists can also win one of ten categories: Budget, Compact, Compact Family, Midsize, Premium, Luxury, Performance, New Energy, Adventure SUV and 4X4 Double Cab. The first category, Budget, has no contenders this year.

The most competitive categories in this year’s competition are the Midsize and Performance categories, with five finalists each. The Midsize category comprises the Audi A3, Hyundai’s Palisade, Santa Fe and Staria, and the Mercedes Benz C-Class. BMW’s 128ti and M3, Porsche 911 Carrera GTS, Toyota GR Yaris and Volkswagen Golf GTI make up the finalists in the Performance category.

Hyundai Staria

Strong contenders in the Compact and Compact Family categories represent imported brands, with Toyota the only OEM that manufactures vehicles locally.

This year, the New Energy category represents a wider range of vehicles, which indicates the increased focus by OEMs in this segment of the market.

The Adventure SUV and 4×4 Double Cab categories are just as competitive this year as the 2021 COTY competition, where a newcomer in the class is competing against an established, locally manufactured rival.

With six finalists in five different categories, Toyota has the most finalists in this year’s competition. Hyundai is in second place, with five finalists in three different categories.

“The Car of the Year committee is extremely pleased with the variety of vehicles that made the Finalist round of this year’s competition. Our jury panel of experts has a tough task ahead of them,” says Graham Eagle, Chairman of the 2022 COTY committee.

Peugeot 208

The final round of scoring will commence shortly and continue until early April. This round also includes data from Lightstone, which is used for automated scoring based on segment sales volumes and spec-adjusted competitor pricing.

“The 2022 COTY committee wishes all contenders good luck. The Category Winners and Overall SA Car of the Year Winner will be announced in May,” concludes Eagle.

This year again will see a Motor Enthusiast’s Choice (public vote) as introduced during last year’s competition. Posts of each Finalist will be regularly published on social media, and the Finalist with the most likes wins. #2022sacoty.

https://bit.ly/3402b1F

Colin-on-Cars - Super luxury styling for new Range Rover

The new Range Rover – only available locally from mid-2022 – has been launched in Europe and the words ‘everything but the kitchen sink’ tell an apt tale of the levels of tech and luxury that are incorporated in the latest iteration.  

With a suite of powertrain options – and a pure-electric Range Rover set to join the line-up in 2024 – plus a choice of four, five or seven-seat interiors available across Standard and Long Wheelbase body designs, the New Range Rover is at home in any environment.

Thierry Bolloré, Chief Executive Officer, Jaguar Land Rover, says: “The New Range Rover is a superb manifestation of our vision to create the world’s most desirable luxury vehicles, for the most discerning of customers. It writes the next chapter in the unique story of pioneering innovation that has been a Range Rover hallmark for more than 50 years.”

Land Rover’s new flexible Modular Longitudinal Architecture, MLA-Flex, underpins every aspect of this luxury SUV that will be available in South Africa in a choice of HSE and Autobiography models.

A First Edition will be available throughout the first year of production, based on the Autobiography and featuring a unique specification. It is exclusively available in a Sunset Gold Satin finish, among a choice of five exterior colours. Both Standard (SWB) or Long Wheelbase (LWB) body designs are available with five seats, while the New Range Rover LWB model is available with a third row for extended comfort for up to seven adults.

The surfaces provide a clean and contemporary appearance – and contribute to a drag coefficient of 0,30, making this possibly the most aerodynamically efficient luxury SUV in the world.

The luxurious interior is underpinned by modern, intuitive and relevant technologies, designed to work harmoniously with the finest materials and wellbeing innovations to create a calm sanctuary for all occupants – turning every trip into an experience to savour.

Nick Collins, Executive Director Vehicle Programmes, Jaguar Land Rover, says: “The New Range Rover takes the lessons learned over 50 years of evolution and combines them with cutting edge technologies to deliver supreme refinement, comfort and wellbeing. It does this through pre-emptive suspension that primes the vehicle for upcoming corners, next-generation noise cancelling with new headrest speakers and clean air technology that can help significantly reduce odours and viruses – creating one of the quietest, most relaxing, modern luxury travelling experiences imaginable.”

The Range Rover was the first luxury SUV to feature Electronic Air Suspension, in 1992, and the New Range Rover continues this pioneering approach with Dynamic Response Pro and pre-emptive suspension that uses eHorizon Navigation data to read the road ahead and prime the suspension to provide perfect responses.

The intelligent technology also works in conjunction with the Adaptive Cruise Control with Steering Assist to smooth out body movements resulting from sudden changes in speed. Fully independent suspension underpins the luxurious ride and features Land Rover’s first ever five-link rear axle, which isolates the cabin from surface imperfections more effectively than ever using advanced air springs.

Advanced hazard detection means the doors can automatically pause until the sweep of the door is cleared.

Drivers can even control the new Range Rover from outside the vehicle using Remote Park Assist, which is operated using a smartphone app. It allows the luxury SUV to manoeuvre into and out of parking spaces while the driver monitors progress nearby – perfect for entering or leaving narrow city spaces or negotiating rural gates.

Every New Range Rover features All-Wheel Steering for an effortless drive with heightened high-speed stability and improved manoeuvrability at low speeds.

The electrically operated rear axle provides up to seven degrees of steering angle and, at low speeds, turns out-of-phase of the front wheels, giving the New Range Rover a turning circle of less than 11 m– the smallest of any Land Rover. At higher speeds the rear axle turns in phase with the front wheels for enhanced stability and comfort.

The New Range Rover is also the first Land Rover to feature Dynamic Response Pro. The powerful new active 48-volt electronic roll control system is faster-acting and more efficient than a hydraulic set-up, with a torque capacity of up to 1 400 Nm fed into the anti-roll bars to keep body movements under control.

The intelligent All-Wheel Drive (iAWD) transmission is controlled by Land Rover’s Intelligent Driveline Dynamics (IDD) system, which monitors grip levels and driver inputs 100 times a second to predictively distribute torque between the front and rear axles, and across the rear axle, for optimum traction on and off-road.

In South Africa the New Range Rover will be available in a choice of new Extended Range Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) powertrains, the P440e and P510e, and the Ingenium diesel D350 engine. A powerful new petrol flagship – the P530 Twin Turbo V8 – delivers increased refinement and performance and is 17% more efficient than the previous Range Rover V8.

The New Range Rover is the first Land Rover to be powered by a new 4,4-litre V8 engine, which deploys two parallel twin-scroll turbos – one for each cylinder bank – to minimise turbo lag and optimise efficiency.

The new engine produces 390 kW and 750 Nm of torque, and powers the New Range Rover from 0-100 km/h in 4,6 s with Dynamic Launch engaged, and to a top speed of 250 km/h.

The D350 diesel produces 257 kW and 700 Nm of torque, and powers New Range Rover from 0-100 km/h in 6,1s.

The new Extended-Range PHEVs combine the in-line six-cylinder Ingenium petrol engine, in a choice of 323 kW or 375 kW outputs, with a 38,2 kWh lithium-ion battery – with usable capacity of 31,8 kWh – and a 105 kW electric motor integrated with the transmission. Together, the powertrain provides up to 100 km of near-silent pure-electric driving. With instantaneous electric torque the new P510e (375 kW) accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 5,6s.

The PHEVs can reach up to 140 km/h allowing customers to enjoy the New Range Rover as an EV-only model for most journeys in town and country, with overall CO2 emissions lower than 30 g/km9. Typical Range Rover customers will be able to complete up to 75% of trips using electric power onlyif they begin each journey with a full charge.

The New Range Rover will be produced exclusively at the Solihull Manufacturing Facility in the UK, using a state-of-the-art production line housed in the building used to produce early Series Land Rovers. The historic building is the spiritual home of Land Rover and its reimagining as a new, ultra-modern centre for Range Rover production showcases the way the company protects its heritage.

https://bit.ly/2ZsX5YX

Colin-on-Cars - Feisty Fiat fully fitted

The quirky Fiat Abarth hatch has gained a special edition model while the rest of the 595 range features new interiors, new colours and new details for the Abarth 595 Turismo and Competizione hatch and cabriolet models.

The Abarth 595 offers as standard all the equipment needed, including a flat-bottomed steering wheel, updated instrument panel and the pressure gauge now lit in white to ensure better legibility, while polyelliptical headlights and LED daytime running lights are fitted as standard on the Competizione.

Competizione

‘Sport’ mode has been renamed ‘Scorpion’ mode throughout the new range aligning it with the Abarth logo and in recognition of the brand’s founder, Carlo Abarth.

Pressing the button on the dashboard alters peak torque delivery, power steering calibration and engine response to the accelerator pedal, making them sharper and increasing driver engagement. The 595 is also equipped with a high-performance braking system specific to Abarth, providing maximum safety courtesy of the 284 mm front ventilated discs and the 240 mm rear discs.

The Abarth 595 Turismo features refreshed interiors, including exclusive diamond-embossed leather seats available in a number of colour options, including the new heritage brown.

Turismo

As part of the upgrade an all new colour has been added to the exterior Competizione palette, rally blue, a matt colour inspired by the Fiat 131 Abarth Rally of the 1970s. New 17-inch alloy wheels are a nod to those of the 1990s Lancia Delta Rally Integrale, while a body colour body kit is specific to the Competizione in combination with the new rally blue or scorpione black exterior paint.

Inside, in addition to the ‘Scorpion’ mode selector with its new design, a new dashboard covered in Alcantara can be found, alongside new leather seats and gear lever in carbon fibre.

The new Abarth 595 range is equipped with the 1.4 T-jet engine, available in two output levels. The 595 Turismo features 121 kW, while the 595 Competizione enjoys a power rise to 132 kW.

All variants of the 1.4 T-jet engine are paired with a six-speed manual transmission and both the Turismo and Competizione can be fitted on request with an Abarth robotised sequential transmission with shift paddles.

The new 595 range is equipped as standard with the Uconnect system with 7-inch high-definition touchscreen radio and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

The new Abarth 595 Monster Energy Yamaha special series is designed especially for young customers and motor sport fans and is limited to 2 000 units worldwide.

Aesthetically inspired by the livery of the 2020 Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP’s YZR-M1, the exterior of the new special series features a dual colour blue and black livery bearing the ‘Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP’ logo on its lower side, just above the ‘595’ logo.

The special series is finished off with the Monster ‘claw’ on the bonnet.

On the inside, the model features the special new Abarth sports seats with blue finishes and the ‘Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP’ logo on the head restraints. The blue lining stands out from the black dashboard. Thus mirroring the dual colour livery, while the numbered plate is placed on the central tunnel.

The Abarth 595 Monster Energy Yamaha is equipped with a 1.4 T-jet engine with Euro6B homologation, with manual transmission, but it can be fitted with an Abarth robotised sequential transmission with shift paddles on demand.

https://bit.ly/3AwzNys

Colin-on-Cars: Road Review - Toyota Prado 2.8 Diesel VX-L

As a young boy I had quite an extensive collection of Dinky toys (and I wish I had kept them) that made way for an extravagant Marklin train set that threatened to banish both my parent’s car from the garage (it too, would have been worth keeping) that made way for an eclectic collection of motorcycle parts acquired with the idea of resurrecting an old Garelli; the space shared with car parts to get cousin Cyril’s Renault Dauphine up and running.

Of those Dinky toys my favourite was a battered old Land Rover and that ignited my ongoing affair with life off the road.

However, interest only turned to adoration when Toyota first introduced the Prado to South Africa. I cannot properly explain why I fell so hopelessly in love with the Prado – perhaps it was the first less than conservative design from Toyota, perhaps it was its ability in the bush.

Who knows, who cares?

The fact is the Prado has been a bucket list car for me since then and, will almost certainly remain on that list until I kick the darn thing considering the more than R1-million price tag on the latest generation – the top-of-the-range 2.8 Diesel VX-L the subject of this test.

I had not had the opportunity to park my bum in a Prado for quite some time, so the arrival of the VX-L was awaited with much anticipation along with a touch of trepidation – would it measure up to my expectation; would it still be the car I would buy instantly if I won the Lotto.

Short answer. Yes.

Like pretty much all vehicles, the Prado has grown in size with each new iteration and the current model is undeniably big, although not disproportionately so. However, there are some Sandton socialites who tend to buy vehicles like this as pose-mobiles that will need some driving pointers to get in and out of silly little shopping centre parking bays.

Not that it is a problem with high-definition reverse camera and the wealth of driving aids packaged into the Prado.

For anyone intending to put the vehicle through its paces as an on/off-road tourer, the good news is the latest range offers an additional 30 kW of power and 100 Nm of torque derived from the switch to the 2,8-litre GD-6 turbo-diesel engine, that is now mated exclusively to a six-speed automatic transmission (previously five-speed).

Prado's overlanding and towing credentials benefit from the higher-performance engine that now delivers a maximum of 150 kW at 3 400 r/min and 500 Nm over a wider 1 600 r/min – 2 800 r/min band.

The latest generation 2.8 GD-6 engine (as debuted in the updated Hilux) has received a raft of upgrades including a new ball-bearing turbo-charger with a larger turbine and impeller and improved engine rigidity and cooling. Better fuel economy is realised through optimised pistons and piston rings, changes to the cylinder block and head, higher fuel-injection flow rate and the adoption of high-performance materials for the exhaust manifold and cylinder-head gasket.

A newly-fitted balance shaft helps smooth out engine vibrations, improving NVH performance and contributing to an even higher degree of refinement.

The new six-speed transmission has revised torque converter lock-up mapping, to provide smooth gearshifts and a newly-added paddle-shift function. A low-range transfer case makes off-roading a cinch, while user-selectable differential locks (centre and rear) keep the wheels ‘in sync’ when navigating slippery conditions.

While those aforementioned socialites may shudder at the thought of their ‘precious’ getting all dusty, it is precisely what the Prado is designed to do and, with little effort, it makes the likes of the mighty Sani Pass and Naude’s Nek seem like slightly bumpy flat surfaces.

Despite the stronger outputs, fuel consumption improves to 7,9 litres/100 km and CO2 emissions are down to 209 g/km. Fuel capacity is 150 litres with an 87-litre main tank and 63-litre sub tank.

More strenuous work off the beaten track obviously impacted the on-road consumption, pushing it up to around 10 l/100 km in some instances.

Along with the evolved body shape and lines, the Prado remains a luxuriously appointed carriage and there is now a new-generation multimedia system that incorporates a larger 9-inch touchscreen display, enhanced voice recognition and compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Users are able to utilise mobile-phone-services such as Google Maps, Waze, Spotify, SoundCloud etc.  and an embedded satellite navigation system backs up smartphone functionality – particularly useful when out of signal range.

All variants come with automatic dual-zone climate control, 6-speaker touch audio system, electrically adjustable driver’s seat (with memory on the VX-L), illuminated entry, cruise control, park distance control, keyless entry, auto door lock, three power outlets, Bluetooth connectivity, USB, 3rd row seating and reverse camera.

Seat heating and ventilation are provided for front row occupants while second row occupants also benefit from seat heating. The refrigerated centre console helps make light work of road trips or bushveld excursions.

VX-L models gain a 14-speaker Premium audio system with woofer, multi-information display, power tilt-and-telescopic steering adjustment, rain-sensing wipers and power-fold-down functionality for the third-row seats along with Toyota Safety Sense (TSS), which encompasses Pre-Collision System (PCS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Blind-Spot Monitoring (BSM), Lane Departure Alert (LDA) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA). In addition, the Automatic High Beam (AHB) function provides enhanced visibility via the LED headlamps when activated. A power-operated tilt-and-slide moonroof completes the VX-L package.

Its off-road ability lies embedded in Toyota’s Active Traction Control system (A-TRAC), which actively regulates wheel-slip, by directing torque to the wheel with the most traction. The system is capable of applying braking pressure to wheels individually to maximise traction. Hill Assist Control (HAC) forms part of the standard ensemble.

The Multi-Terrain Select (MTS) system, operated by a centrally mounted rotary knob, allows the driver to select the correct mode depending on the ‘road’ ahead. The system has five pre-configured modes (mud and sand, loose rock, mogul, rock and dirt and rock), to tailor the vehicle’s traction control, transmission characteristics, power delivery and suspension settings to the terrain at hand. Downhill Assist Control (DAC) and Crawl Control are included on VX and VX-L models.

Over and above that it has Drive Mode Select, which offers five modes; Comfort, Sport, Sport +, Normal and Eco; to adapt vehicle dynamics according to driver preference.

All Land Cruiser Prado’s have a body on frame construction with a double-wishbone front design and multi-link rear layout. The VX and VX-L versions have Toyota’s Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS).

KDSS employs a hydraulic system attached to the sway bars, to effectively link all four wheels reducing body roll and improving wheel articulation. In addition, there is Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) to allow adjustability of the shock absorber damping level. This is linked to the Drive Mode Select function.

All pretty on paper! So, does the Prado meet the bucket list requirement?

Indeed, it does. Those fortunate enough to own one should fully embrace its capabilities by pointing it at the wide-open spaces that make South Africa such a great country and go, see and experience all of the goodies not visible from motorways and highways.

The Prado is light and nimble, despite its size and responds quickly to driver commands whether on or off the road where, its sure-footed stance inspires confidence.

All Prado models are sold with a 9-services/90 000 km service plan – with 10 000 km service intervals. A 3-year/100 000 km warranty is also provided.

Well, back to the bucket then.

https://bit.ly/3urV2jz

Colin-on-Cars: Road Review - Toyota Fortuner 2.8 GD-6 VX

Way back in 2006 when Toyota first launched the Fortuner, it was pretty much a body on a bakkie but, even so, the company’s timing was perfect and it became an instant hit and has hung on as a chart-topper longer than any Kurt Darren tune.

In the intervening years, the Fortuner has evolved with improved levels of comfort, fittings, driveability and off-road capability.

In its latest format, it also introduced the range-topping 2.8 GD-6 VX where VX follows Toyota badging style on its other SUV options such as RAV4, Prado and Land Cruiser.

This means it is packed with a mix of tech and luxury, including nice-to-have’s such as autonomous braking along with its ability to get well off the beaten track.

At the front a larger, blacked-out grille with gloss wave-like mesh pattern is accompanied by a silver-accented ‘skid-plate’ underrun. Re-profiled Bi-LED headlamps provide a sleeker look and these are further enhanced by prominent chrome accent strips that bridge the grille and headlamp assemblies.

On the VX, the side profile is enhanced with a thin, chrome belt-line that extends towards the rear, effectively wrapping around the vehicle while new tail lamp units with integrated light guides, help deliver a more striking night-time signature.

The 2.8 GD-6 variants ride on 18-inch alloy wheels with turbine design and metallic surface treatment – employing 265-60-R18 tyres.

The original interior of the Fortuner was a kind of farm dust beige and this has now been changed to black in line with requests from the market the car serves.

The new black ‘hide’ with silver contrast stitching raises the level of sophistication (and desirability) to put it on a par with price bracket rivals such as the VW Tiguan Allspace 2.0TSI 4-Motion, the Kia Sorento 2.2 CRDi AWD and the BMW X3 sDrive.

The revised instrument cluster design has metallic-blue dial faces, white needle pointers and a simple, elegant font making them easy to read even when bounding over undulating terrain.

An all-new 8-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality now allows navigation applications such as Google Maps and Waze and occupants can also access their music libraries and streaming accounts via apps such as Apple Music, JOOX, Spotify and SoundCloud. Wireless telephony is supported via Bluetooth with a USB input for additional media options.

The VX is also equipped with embedded Audio Visual Navigation (AVN).

More important than the aesthetics is the fact the power output of the 2.8 GD-6 engine is boosted by 20 kW to achieve 150 kW at 3 000 r/min with an extra 50 Nm on the torque to move than to 500 Nm at at 1 600 r/min.

The Tiguan has marginally more power than the Fortuner, but it is way ahead of the opposition grouping in terms of torque.

The increase in power and torque can be best felt when doing some serious donga-diving and putting the all-wheel drive system to the test. Toyota engineers improved performance and fuel economy simultaneously by adopting a larger, heavy-duty turbo-charger with a ball-bearing cartridge and a new common-rail injection system with a higher maximum fuel pressure of 250 Mpa.

On my test cycle, including the off-road element, the average fuel consumption was 8,4 l/100 km. Keeping to the tarmac this average drops down to 7,9 l/100 km.

Underpinning the Fortuner execution is a double-wishbone suspension at the front with a four-link arrangement in the rear – all using coil springs.

At the end of the day, it is all about balance and this suspension setup provides just that to be the best it can on or offroad. It strikes a comfortable balance between work and play modes.

All Fortuner models come with Park Distance Control (PDC) alongside full LED lighting, cruise control and touchscreen infotainment, one-touch power windows, reverse camera, steering switches, air-conditioned upper glovebox, multiple 12-volt power outlets, cup/bottle holders and a tilt and telescopic adjustable steering column.

The 2.8 GD-6 adds an electro-chromatic rear view mirror, power seat adjustment for both driver and passenger, climate control as well as rear fog lamps. A leather steering wheel, leather dashboard accents and matte wood trim, with the VX gaining seat heating (driver & passenger), welcome lighting and the Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) system.

TSS integrates a Pre-collision system, Lane Departure Alert, Adaptive Cruise Control and road sign recognition, joining active safety aids including anti-lock braking, EBD, Brake Assist, VSC, Trailer Sway Control, Traction Control and Downhill Assist Control (DAC).

All Fortuner models come with a 3-year/100 000 km warranty. A 9-services/90 000 km service plan is standard on all models (service intervals of 10 000 km or 12-months).

https://bit.ly/3zDt6Kj

 Road Review - Suzuki Swift 1.2 GLX

The car you feel most comfortable in is the one to buy. That is something I tell people who call in or write to me looking for advice on what car is going to suit them and the budget the best. The simple reason for the simple answer is simply that is the car you going to spend the next couple of years driving and, if it is not comfortable for you, ending up hating with a passion. 

It is not rocket science and merely a matter of logic. At the end of the day the fuel economy, acceleration, top speed and all of that pales into insignificance compared to how you feel about the car. 

Obviously each of us is different. Our tastes vary and we’re all different shapes and sizes, so comfortable for me may not necessarily be comfortable for you.

 

I have always liked the Suzuki Swift and found it to be particularly comfortable for me. I love the short wheelbase, agility and, dare I say it, go-kart handling of the little car. In fact, if I was still involved in car club gymkhana activities, the Swift would be my weapon of choice. 

On a more practical day to day level is is absolutely ideal for the shopping centre slalom and zipping through the morning traffic.

 

The current generation Suzuki Swift was introduced in South Africa in 2018 and now gets a minor update that includes a distinctive chrome line that divides the grille into a section with the large Suzuki emblem and a lower section that holds the front number plate. 

The grille itself has a more distinctive mesh pattern and the GL and GLX models are fitted with front fog lights and the range-topping 1.2 GLX one test adds a high-resolution reverse camera that displays its image on the touch screen infotainment system and it gains new 15-inch polished alloy wheels. 

The most significant addition to the Swift range is Electronic Stability Control (ESP). This safety feature is added across all Swift models and will be added to the already-standard list of safety equipment, which includes SRS front and passenger crash bags, anti-lock brakes with emergency brake assistance (BA) and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).

 

All models are also equipped with ISOFIX anchor points for child restraint systems, central locking, safety belts fitted with pre-tensioners and force limiters, and an immobiliser and alarm system. 

The Suzuki K12M engine uses variable valve technology to deliver 61 kW at 6 000 r/min and 112 Nm at 4 200 r/min for an overall average consumption of 5,1 l/100 km on my test cycle. 

In terms of size and price positioning, at R218 900, the Swift comes up against the likes of the Toyota Agya, Kia Picanto Street and Peugeot 108 Active – all three of which sport 1,0-litre engines and are cheaper than the 1,2-litre Swift. 

On a spec-for-spec comparison the Swift outdoes its rivals in most categories – the Peugeot has curtain crash bags, for example – but, in the main, the differences are minor. 

Standard features on the Swift include power windows, climate control and central locking, an audio system with USB and AUX inputs, a tachometer, electrically adjustable mirrors, high-resolution colour touch screen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and a reverse camera. 

The loading capacity varies from 268 litres to 953 litres with the rear seats folded flat.

 

As a total package, the bang for the buck ratio is pretty darn high. 

However, it still comes down to the drive. Here, the Swift excels as previously mentioned with its agility and ‘drive me’ attitude. It may not be the quickest around – 0-100 km/h coming up in a shade over 12 seconds and top speed around 169 km/h – but it delivers everything it can with gusto. 

Even the engine note as it climbs up the rev band is far more pleasing than some similar capacity options that sound like a cat being put through a bandsaw. 

For me, this is a car to enjoy. To have fun with. To appreciate the pleasure of driving.

 The other side of Lamborghini

Besides being the ride of choice for several local competitors in the GT Racing series and the creator of some of the world’s most achingly beautiful cars, Automobili Lamborghini has several records and innovations attached to its name. Here are seven that you might not have known about: 

  1. Lamborghini is the only automaker to win the 24 Hours of Daytona in the GTD class three consecutive times

For many years, Lamborghini cars have raced successfully in the most prestigious international championships dedicated to GT3 cars. Automobili Lamborghini’s pre-eminence as an automaker is demonstrated by victories at the 24 Hours of Daytona in 2018, 2019 and 2020. The House of Sant’Agata Bolognese is the world’s only car manufacturer to win the prestigious American endurance race for three years in a row. Moreover, Lamborghini is the only manufacturer to have two consecutive wins, in 2018 and 2019, in both the 24 Hours of Daytona and the 12 Hours of Sebring, races that together form the legendary ‘36 Hours of Florida’.

 

  2. Urus speed record on the ice of Russia’s Lake Baikal during the ‘Days of Speed’

In March 2021, with a top speed of 298 km/h and average speed from a standing start of 114 km/h over 1000 meters, Lamborghini’s Super SUV achieved the speed record on the ice of Lake Baikal in Russia during the ‘Days of Speed’, a record officially endorsed by the RAF (Russian Automobile Federation) recognized by the FIA (Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile). The Lamborghini Urus, driven by Andrey Leontyev, who holds 18 records, demonstrated extraordinary performance and exceptional handling despite reduced traction due to the ice and the strong wind gusts.

 

  3. Urus, the first SUV with wheels up to 23-inches

Since its debut, the Lamborghini Urus Super SUV has created a new segment in the luxury car market and set a benchmark in terms of power, performance, driving dynamics, design, luxury, and everyday usability. The wheels, available from 21-inch to 23-inch, are a maximum size that no other vehicle in the same segment had ever offered before.

 

  4. Record for organ transport by car: 489 km in just over 2 hours to transport an organ at 233 km/h

In December 2020, the Huracán Polizia was used for the urgent transport of a kidney destined for transplant. In this specific case, the kidney was picked up and transported from Padua to the Gemelli University Hospital in Rome. 

The 489-kilometer journey was covered by the men in uniform in just over two hours, at an average speed of 233 km/h. It was an incredible result if we consider that in normal driving conditions it would take about five hours to complete a journey of this distance, and this extraordinary performance takes on especially important value in relation to the nobility of the mission accomplished. 

The Huracán Polizia, part of the fleet of the Italian Highway Patrol since 2017, is used for carrying out patrol, rescue and medical transport services. The car is painted in the official colours (Medium Blue Police) with the parts in white and the lettering adapted to the dynamic design of the super sports car. The livery is completed by a tricolour band that runs along both sides of the car. The primary task of the Huracán Polizia is medical assistance. For this purpose, the front luggage compartment houses special refrigerated equipment for the urgent transport of organs for transplantation. For emergency rescue of people, the equipment also includes a defibrillator.

 

  5. Automobili Lamborghini, the first automaker to introduce a comprehensive control system integrated with Amazon Alexa

In early 2021, Automobili Lamborghini became the first automaker to integrate Amazon Alexa for comprehensive in-car control of the vehicle. Amazon Alexa Integration joins Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Web Radio on the Huracán MY21 models equipped with the ‘Smartphone Interface and Connected Services’ option. In the Huracán EVO, drivers can adjust functions such as climate control, ambient light and seat heating, as well as control navigation, telephone calls and entertainment with just a simple ‘Alexa’ voice command, so the driver can remain focused on the road. Alexa is also integrated into the LDVI (Lamborghini Integrated Vehicle Dynamics) system in the four-wheel drive Huracán EVO. A simple voice command accesses real-time feedback on the car’s driving dynamics via the LIS screen, such as torque vectoring, Lamborghini Dynamic Steering (LDS) and traction control. The Alexa function also allows connection with other Alexa-enabled devices.

 

  6. Lamborghini, the first CO₂-neutral automotive company certified by DNV since 2015

Lamborghini pursues a precise environmental sustainability strategy, a program called ‘Direzione Cor Tauri’, inspired by a vision holistic of the company’s approach to sustainability. It is a comprehensive approach that embraces not only the product but also the Sant’Agata Bolognese site, the production lines and the offices. The total area of 160,000 square meters has been certified CO₂ neutral since 2015, an accomplishment that was maintained also following the doubling of the production site in recent years.

 

  7. Automobili Lamborghini, the world’s first automaker to initiate research on carbon fibre materials in outer space

Automobili Lamborghini is the first automaker in the world to carry out research on carbon fibre materials aboard the International Space Station (ISS). The launch of the Northrop Grumman Antares launcher from the Wallops Flight Facility in Virginia took place on November 2, 2019, with the mission to take a series of composite material samples produced by Automobili Lamborghini to the ISS. The launch is part of a test campaign sponsored by the ISS U.S. National Laboratory and overseen by the Houston Methodist Research Institute. The tests were aimed at analysing the response of five different composite materials produced by Lamborghini to the extreme stresses generated by the space environment, in view of future applications on cars made by the House of Sant’Agata Bolognese and in the medical field.

Getting topless with Lexus

It takes just 15 seconds to get topless in the new Lexus LC Convertible that joins the brand as a luxury lifestyle model. 

The Lexus design team was briefed the new model had to preserve the essential styling motifs of the LC 500 coupé so the roof was key to their goal, as chief designer Tadao Mori explains: “Few convertibles are stylish and elegant when the roof is open and when it is closed. We put maximum effort into realising the same beautiful roof line for the LC Convertible as for the coupe.”

 

The cover is set as low as possible, avoiding the familiar flat, platform look typical of many convertibles. The beltline kicks up behind the doors, creating an overall tight and clean profile. The folding roof boasts an extra fold in the soft top to fit in the space between the rear suspension towers, creating a character line running from the front to the back. 

Only one model grade is available and it’s priced at R2 345 500.

 

The LC 500 Convertible combines highly rigid yet lightweight front, centre and rear bracing supports, a rear suspension tower brace and shear panel to ensure tight handling. 

The Convertible builds on the engineering evolution of the recently-updated LC Coupé – including lighter forged-aluminium suspension components, a hollow rear stabiliser bar, rear performance damper, optimised Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) and new Active Cornering Assist (ACA). 

The 5,0-litre normally aspirated V8 petrol engine with direct injection which sees duty in both variants, makes 351 kW of power at 7 100 r/min and 540 Nm of torque at 4 800 r/min in the LC 500 Convertible. 

A recently-retuned 10-speed automatic transmission combines with the revised chassis to leverage the best from the highly rigid GA-L rear-wheel drive platform, and enable smooth ride comfort to coexist with excellent dynamics. 

The LC 500 Convertible can accelerate from 0-100 in just 4,7 seconds and it has a claimed fuel consumption of 12,7 l/100 km and a C02 emissions figure of 290 g/km.

 

Full specification includes 21-inch forged-alloy two-tone wheels, pre-crash safety system (PCS), lane keep assist (LKA) with steering assist, blind spot monitor (BSM) with rear cross traffic alert (RCTA), Cruise Control, six SRS crash bags (Side, Knee, Driver and Passenger), vehicle stability control (VSC), LED headlights with cornering lights and washers and automatic high-beam (AHB), LFA-style 8,0-inch digital instrumentation with slide-out meter ring, 10,3-inch multimedia screen with Lexus Remote Touch-pad (LRT) controller, dual-zone climate control air conditioning with Lexus Climate Concierge, 10-way power-operated front seats with driver memory settings and heated and ventilated front seats as some of the items on a very long list. 

Even though the LC Convertible has a soft top, Lexus wanted to secure the same kind of cabin quietness as in the LC Coupe. Acoustic simulations were created to find out where dominant noises were entering the space, so the amount and location of soundproofing and sound-absorbing material could be calculated. 

The storage area behind the rear seats for the folding roof presented a particular challenge, as it was a route for tyre and exhaust noise to enter the cabin. There was not enough room for sound-proofing material to be added, so the team looked instead at adapting the trim material itself. By allowing air to pass through the structure and using sound-absorbing material on the reverse, the entire surface of the storage space soaks up noise. 

The 2021 LC Convertible comes standard with a 7-year/105 000 km Warranty and Full Maintenance Plan.

 

2021 LEXUS LS GETS MINOR CHANGE

 

The 310 kW 3,5-litre twin turbo-charged V6 engine in the LS 500 benefits from enhancements that deliver greater responsiveness and reduce noise. In the LS 500, the earlier production of engine torque leads to greater acceleration response from lower speeds in particular. 

Improved shift timing for the 10-speed automatic transmission, and a wider acceleration range for each gear, results in less-frequent downshifts and improved refinement. Quietness has also been improved by lowering the maximum available engine speed during the take-off phase of acceleration. 

The new LS also adopts Active Noise Control and Engine Sound Enhancement tuning, while a revised engine-mount interior, alters damping characteristics to further reduce powertrain noise and vibration.

 

The LS output figures are 310 kW and 600 Nm of torque at 6 000 rpm. The engine’s long stroke and optimised stroke-to-bore ratio contribute to high-speed combustion and the efficiency of the twin turbos, helping the LS post a projected 0-to-100 km/h acceleration time of 5 seconds. 

For both the F Sport and Luxury variant, the driver is able to tailor powertrain response and feel by selecting Normal, Eco, Sport and Sport S+ drive modes, with just enough of the exhaust note being audible to enhance the sporty feel. 

Lexus has also enhanced the seating of the LS to support the under-skin improvements. The seats in the LS now feature deeper stitch points and low-resilience urethane for the padding, with vibration absorption measures and softer positioning contributing to even greater comfort. 

The headlights adopt a BladeScan adaptive high-beam system (first seen on RX). This technology delivers more precise illumination to avoid blinding other drivers while providing a broader distribution of light to illuminate areas that would not normally be visible with a conventional high-beam system. 

The F Sport's more dynamic image is distinguished by the garnish for the sub-radiator grilles wrapping around to the sides and the adoption of a dedicated colour for the spindle grille and 20-inch wheels. 

The Lexus LS 500 Luxury retails for R2 204 200, while the LS 500 F Sport has a price tag of R2 397 900. The LS has a 7-year/105 000 km Warranty and Full Maintenance Plan. The vehicle’s service intervals are at every 15 000 km, alternatively once a year.

 Audi tweaks Q5 range

Audi has given the Q5 a refresh and the sharpened exterior design now emphasises the Audi Q SUV identity and boasts a rear light cluster featuring digital OLED technology, for the first time. 

Up front, the octagonal Singleframe is now shallower and appears wider than before, while the side air intakes have grown in height and are now structured by trapezoidal insets and the upper section of the LED headlamps features a new signature for the daytime running lights. 

The Advanced model comes with chromed vertical ribs in the Singleframe, along with under-ride guards beneath the front and rear bumpers in silver finish instead of black. The S line model comprises a sportier honeycomb structure in the Singleframe and a chrome strip framing the rear diffusor. Both Advanced and S line models also include the high gloss styling package as standard which adds more distinctive design elements to the exterior look of the cars with the roof frame and window slot strips in anodized aluminium.

 

At 4,68 metres, the redesigned Audi Q5 is now 19 millimetres longer – due primarily to its larger bumpers. Its width (excluding mirrors) of 1,89 metres and height of 1,66 metres remain unchanged. 

Audi’s sliding rear bench plus with adjustable backrests is available as an option and enables a luggage space of 580-litres to 1 580-litres. With the normal rear bench, the luggage space measures 520-litres to 1 520-litres. 

Behind the new control setup in the updated Audi Q5 is a new main unit – the third-generation Modular Infotainment Platform (MIB 3), which offers 10 times the computing power of its predecessor, the MIB 2. 

Its basis is a conventional dashboard with a centrally positioned driver information system. The top of the range is the Audi virtual cockpit plus – a high-resolution 12,3-inch digital display with three different graphic layouts – is optionally available with the Technology package. The driver controls the displays via the multifunction steering wheel. Audi smartphone interface is now standard throughout the range. A head-up display is also available as an option.

 

The central 10,1-inch MMI touch display is standard equipment in the Q5. Its menu structure with flat hierarchies makes it extremely easy to use, and is searchable using free text. The driver has the choice of entering characters and letters manually or via voice control, which understands a vast array of everyday terms. 

The upgraded premium SUV comes to market in South Africa in two engine offerings. The Audi Q5 40 TDIhas a 2,0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine that generates 140 kW and 400 Nm of torque. The Audi Q5 40 TDI accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 7,9 seconds. 

The second engine in the range is the Audi Q5 45 TFSI. Its 2,0-litre four-cylinder TFSI engine generates 183 kW and 370 Nm of torque. The Audi Q5 45 TFSI accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 6,3 seconds. 

The mild hybrid system (MHEV) available on this model contributes to the low fuel consumption. A belt-driven starter/generator (BSG) supplies the 12-volt vehicle electrical system, which incorporates a compact lithium-ion battery. The BSG recuperates braking energy and stores it in the battery. The MHEV system enables the Audi Q5 45 TFSI to coast with the engine off, and allows for start-stop mode at speeds below 22 km/h. Overall, this results in a fuel-efficiency improvement of approx. 0,3 l/100 km. 

Both models have a seven-speed S tronic that sends the engine power to the quattro all-wheel drive with ultra-technology, which also contributes to efficiency. In normal operation, it sends all the power to the front wheels. If all-wheel drive becomes necessary, two clutches connect the rear wheels to the driveline in fractions of a second.

 

The optimized Audi SQ5 TFSI sports a V6 3,0-litre petrol engine with an output of 260 kW and 500 Nm of torque that accelerates the top model of the Q5 product line from 0 to 100 km/h in 5,4 seconds and on to an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h. 

Key standard equipment on the Audi SQ5 includes quattro with self-locking centre differential, red brake calipers with ‘S’ lettering, sports suspension system with damper control,  Audi connect navigation and infotainment, Audi virtual cockpit Plus, Audi smartphone interface, MMI Navigation plus with MMI touch, rear view camera system,  interior accent surfaces painted in glossy black, decorative inserts in matte brushed aluminium, fine Nappa leather with embossed ‘S’, sports seats in front, rear bench seat plus and sports contour leather-wrapped steering wheel with multi-function Plus in a 3-spoke flat-bottom design. 

Pricing 

Audi Q5 40 TDI quattro                         R852,000

Audi Q5 40 TDI quattro Advanced        R871,000

Audi Q5 40 TDI quattro S line               R897,000

Audi Q5 45 TFSI quattro S line             R947,000

Audi SQ5 TFSI quattro                          R1,208,000

 Fiat 500 gets Cult status

Some 64 years after its birth in Turin, Italy the iconic Fiat 500 is only in its third generation and the new one looks set to continue the tradition established with the original version. 

The original version, beloved of the love generation of the ‘60s, is now transformed into a Fiat 500 Cult that rather aptly describes the emotions that surround the little car, owners and its global fan base. 

Running on 14-inch steel wheels with hubcaps and black exterior mirrors, Cult models feature LED day-time running lamps as standard, with halogen headlights.

 

The interior is highlighted by blue fabric seats with Fiat Monogram and body colour dashboard. A new option for Cult is a Techno Blue Matt dashboard and the standard list of comfort features remains high. UconnectTM five-inch radio with DAB, USB ports and manual air-conditioning are all standard, as is a speed limiter.

 

Adding onto the Cult standard specification, Connect models are identified by 15-inch alloy wheels and specific side skirts, rear spoiler and bumpers, including fog lights. 

New seats, which are height adjustable, enhance the interior along with a multi-function steering wheel with eight buttons. The dashboard can be ordered in Matt Silver. Cooler than ever, other interior upgrades include cruise control, Uconnect seven-inch infotainment with CarPlay and Android Auto, and two additional rear speakers. 

For the more avant-garde, Dolcevita models epitomise Italian style and flair with bespoke badging and chrome accents on the two-tone paintwork. With 16-inch alloy wheels, the Dolcevita also gets the Techno-leather multi-function steering wheel, glass roof, Matelassé fabric seats with techno leather details, and a 50/50 split rear seat. 

More sporty-minded customers will be attracted to the Sport upgrades that include 16-inch alloy wheels, Sport badging, and specific side skirts, bumpers and rear spoiler. The new Cloud Grey colour looks particularly good against the new ‘arrow electro’ seats and Titanium dashboard with red 500 logo. The TFT seven-inch digital cluster accompanies automatic air conditioning.

 

Fiat 500 is powered by Fiat’s TwinAir two-cylinder turbo-charged petrol engine. While this engine incorporates state-of-the-art technology and efficiency, it also pays homage to the original two-cylinder engine from the 1960s concept. 

The advanced 875 cc engine is a high-performance unit designed with major innovations developed by Fiat for petrol engines. The ‘downsizing’ technology reduces the engine power, the number of cylinder and the size of the engine, resulting in a drastic reduction in fuel consumption and emissions levels (up to 30%) but, as it is matched with the turbo-charger, its power and performance remain the same. 

It delivers 62,5 kW at 5 500 r/min and 145 Nm of torque at 1 900 r/min, offering combined cycle fuel consumption of 4,0 l/100 km while still accelerating around town in very respectable times (0-100 km/h in 11 seconds). 

Particularly useful in the A-segment is the fact that Fiat 500 is available in manual and automatic. The five-speed manual MTA transmission allows the convenience and comfort of two-pedal motoring while remaining affordable and reliable when it comes to maintenance and running costs.

 

All four trim levels of the Fiat 500 are available in hatchback guise, while the cabriolet 500C is reserved for Dolcevita and Sport derivatives. Manual transmission is available in Cult, Connect, and Sport hatchbacks, as well as the 500C Sport, while MTA is reserved for 500 and 500C Dolcevita models. 

With seven crash bags as standard, the Fiat 500 set the benchmark for safety in the segment. Anti-lock braking is standard across the range, as is Electronic Stability Control, hill holder and speed limiter. 

Onboard infotainment systems include the Uconnect seven-inch HD touchscreen with ‘tablet effect’ and HD display that includes a range of function, including a hands-free system, Bluetooth technology, and voice recognition. Available with Apple CarPlay and Android AutoTM compatibility, the system has a user-friendly interface that will allow you to easily manage maps, music, contacts, and more. 

MODEL	TRANSMISSION	RETAIL PRICE
Cult 0.9L	FWD 5MT	R 219 900
Connect 0.9L	FWD 5MT	R 260 900
Sport - 0.9L	FWD 5MT	R 269 900
Dolcevita 0.9L	FWD 5AT	R 274 900
Sport Cabriolet 0.9L	FWD 5MT	R 319 900
Dolcevita Cabriolet 0.9L	FWD 5AT	R 324 900