Raising the bar

With its new platform, new design and new turbodiesel engine, SsangYong’s new Korando brings an entirely fresh approach to the crossover market.

·      Designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro

·      SsangYong’s first monocoque construction provides the perfect basis for a modern crossover All-new crossover model fresh from the ground up

·      Two-wheel-drive, 6-speed manual transmission

·      2.0-litre diesel engine blends efficient fuel economy and high performance

·      Low CO₂ emissions will appeal to company car drivers

Introducing a number of significant firsts for SsangYong, the Korando is once again ready to take a bold step into the South African car market.  Merging the low running costs and dynamic abilities of a conventional family hatchback with the visual appeal, adventurous spirit and rough-road capability of an SUV, the Korando is aimed at the heart of the crossover market.

Interesting to know that the Korando is listed in the Korean Guinness Book of World Records as the country’s longest surviving automotive brand. With its roots stretching as far back as 1974, the Korando started a new chapter in Korean car making as the first-ever self-developed four-wheel drive model to come from the country in 1983. The next significant evolution in 1996 was the adoption of Mercedes-Benz diesel technology when the third generation model was introduced.

Now, after a five-year absence from the world’s car market, Korando is back in an all-new form to claim its place among the world’s new C-segment SUV crossover models.

The Korando is a model designed to reaffirm SsangYong’s position in the minds of car buyers. Far from merely fulfilling the basic needs of the consumer, design innovations have been offered to tempt buyers away from established competitors. The eco cruise control system efficiently manages the amount of fuel injected to maximise economy, a door mirror mounted LED puddle lamp helps passengers get in and out safely and comfortably even in dark areas and the Korando’s towing ability has been at the core of its development from day one.

The diesel engines used to power SsangYong models have long been one of the marque’s key strengths. Combining the traditional virtues of high performance and outstanding durability with superb economy and refinement, the new e-XDi200 diesel engine is the perfect powerplant for the Korando.

The 2.0-litre e-XDi200 engine provides a maximum power output of 130kW and peak torque of 360Nm, representing a 20 percent improvement over its predecessor. Optimum torque is delivered across a low yet broad rev range of 2,000-3,000rpm, leading to effortless acceleration from low engine speeds thanks to Ssangyong’s E-VGT (Electric Variable Geometry Turbocharger).

Not only is it fully compliant with Euro-5 emissions regulations, but the e-XDi200 engine is also designed to fulfil the requirements of the future Euro-6 rules. This has been achieved with the help of a range of technological advancements including third generation 1,800 bar common rail fuel injection, E-EGR (Electric Exhaust Gas Recirculation), swirl control valve and CDPF (Catalysed Diesel Particulate Filter). The swirl level has been made flexible for different gear ratios to achieve the cleanest possible diesel combustion.

Pricing: Korando 2.0l CRD 4x2 Manual – R294 995, which includes the following:

·      5 year / 105 000km service plan

·      3 year / 100 000km factory warranty

·      5 year road-side assistance

Take a look at www.ssangyong.co.za for more information.

Citroën say commercial it is!

 
Citroën SA, which was established as a subsidiary of its French parent at the beginning of 2010, has expanded its product offering into the commercial vehicle segment of the local market after launching a stint of new passenger cars.

 
 The new commercial vehicles are three panel van variants - New Berlingo, Dispatch and Relay - with payloads ranging from 750kg to 1 850kg and cargo space stretching from 3,3 cu m to 15 cu m. All the model ranges have a strong family resemblance in terms of styling and engineering layout.
 
 All the Citroën commercial models aim for a level of comfort found in passenger cars, with standard equipment including air conditioning and power windows. Ride comfort and loadability, together with active and passive safety, are further strong consideration for the design and development teams when conceiving new commercial vehicles.
 
Besides the inherent security of a steel-bodied panel van there is automatic door locking when the vehicle is on the move and selective locking of the cabin and load area, as well as deadlocking.
 
Except for a petrol engine option in the Berlingo the rest of the models use HDi turbo diesel power units mounted transversely and driving the front wheels to maximise load carrying capability.
 
The economical engines combine with 20 000km/30 000km service intervals, (depending on the model) service plans and optional maintenance contracts, together with a 3-year/100 000km  warranty combine to ensure low running costs, which are vital in the current economic environment.

NEW BERLINGO:
The New Berlingo is based on the platform of the C4 Picasso multi-purpose vehicle and places the emphasis on space, with two body lengths available – 4,38m or 4,63m – on a wheelbase of 2,73m. The spacious van body allows two Euro pallets to be positioned one behind the other with 3,3m³ of space and a payload of 850kg for the shorter body and 3,7m³ and a 750kg payload for the longer version.

 DISPATCH 
The medium sized Dispatch slots in between the New Berlingo and Relay.
 
It offers a load volume of 6m³ with a payload capability of 1 200kg and has the ability to carry a load of up to 2,6m in length. It also offers a host of convenient storage compartments in the cabin, including a lockable glove box, overhead stowage compartment and a cup-holder.
 
A novelty is the option of self-levelling air suspension at the rear, which can be used to lower the vehicle to less than 1,9m so it can access low-roofed car parks. There is also a 12V electric outlet socket in the centre of the dashboard to use with a mobile phone or laptop computer.

Safety is enhanced by a total of four airbags, ESP, ABS, EBA.
The engine is powered by 100kW 2:0 HDi  and is mated to a six speed manual gearbox.
 
RELAY:
The Relay is the largest vehicle in the current range on offer in South Africa. It comes in a variety of sizes – three overall lengths with two wheelbases and two body heights – which result in customers having the choice of load volumes ranging from 10m³ to 15m³. Access to the load area is made easy by the low sill (53-56cm, depending on the model) with rear swing doors that open to 180 degrees.
 
This is one of the few front-wheel drive panel vans that are rated at a gross vehicle weight of more than 3,5-tons. In the case of the Relay the GVM can go up to 4 000kg which allows for a payload of 1850kg. (It  must be noted that a special licence is required to drive a vehicle of more than 3 500kg GVM).
 
It comes with a choice of three diesel engines – the 2,2 HDi 100 (74kW), the 2,2 HDi 120 (88kW) and the 3,0 HDi 160  (115 kW). All three engines are mated to manual gearboxes, with six speeds for the HDi 120 and HDi 160 and a five-speeder for the HDi 100 models.
 
Warranty and Service Plans
Berlingo: 3year 100 000km warranty, 4 year 60 000km service plan
Dispatch:  3 year 100 000km warranty, 5 year 100 000km service plan
Relay:  3 year 100 000km warranty, 5 year 100 000km service plan
 
Pricing: (incl Vat)
Berlingo 1.6 9.0L1                                       R155 790.00
Berlingo HDI 90 L2                                      R188 290.00
Dispatch HDI 120 L2H1 Panel Van         R272 900.00
Dispatch HDi 140 L2H1 Passenger         R372 900.00 (incl CO² tax)
Relay HDI 100 L2H1 Panel Van               R279 050.00
Relay HDi 120 L3H2 Panel Van               R306 400.00
Relay HDi 160 L4H2 Panel Van               R358 400.00

60 Years of mighty Land Cruiser!

The Toyota Land Cruiser diesel and petrol derivatives will be clocking up 60 years of being this year, 2011. Far from aging gracefully, the legendary 4x4 remains one of the toughest machines on four wheels: it’s conquered the Arctic (and Antarctic) wastes, traversed deserts, ploughed its way through tropical rain forests and generally taken the worst the world can throw at it in its stride.

As Land Cruiser reaches this landmark, Toyota will be launching new 60th Edition versions of most of the Land Cruiser models available locally. These special anniversary editions, with the Land Cruiser 76 and 79 the first in line, have the same robust construction and sophisticated array of driving and control systems for exceptional on and off-road performance as their established models, together with some extra style and equipment details.

Land Cruiser’s ancestry can be traced back to the Toyota BJ of 1951, a truck-derived model that was initially developed for military use. Within six months of its launch the BJ was hailed as a champion, becoming the first vehicle to be driven to the sixth hill station of Japan’s Mount Fuji, 2,500 metres up. As a result of this feat, the BJ was added to the Japanese police fleet and the model’s long-term success began. In 1954 the new Type 25 BJ was given a generic model name – Land Cruiser – which has been used ever since.

As Toyota began its programme of worldwide exports and growth during the 1950s and ’60s, it found many established markets were already well-served by American and European car makers. This prompted the company to focus instead on emerging markets in Middle and Far East, Africa and South America, where Land Cruiser’s tough performance made it a strong proposition.

The Land Cruiser concept was refined in the mid-1960s, as Toyota responded to an American trend for more refined four-wheel drive vehicles. The introduction in 1966 of the first Land Cruiser Station Wagon series – forerunner of today’s Land Cruiser 200 V8 – catered for this growing market, joining the range alongside its more rugged stablemate.

Further development of the Land Cruiser concept came in 1985, when Toyota recognised the potential for a model that could offer the manoeuvrability and uncompromised off-road strengths of the Heavy Duty series with the comfort and refinement of the Station Wagon. The result was the first Land Cruiser “Light Duty” series.

From this point Land Cruiser progressed through two further generations, in 1996 (the Land Cruiser Prado) and 2002, before the launch of the current model in 2009. The larger Land Cruiser 100, also introduced in 1996, (replacing the Land Cruiser 80 series) was replaced with Land Cruiser 200 in 2008.

To date more than five million Land Cruiser models have been sold in 188 different countries and regions worldwide.

Forester goes turbodiesel route!

Subaru has lifted the lid on the 2011 Forester, which boasts revisions to the exterior and interior, a completely redesigned engine range, two new diesel models (regular and premium specification derivatives), a range-topping Forester S- Edition and an irresistible price tag (prices have been slashed across the range, apparently).

 For the first time, there is a diesel engine powering the Forester. Subaru’s new 2.0-litre turbocharged Boxer diesel engine delivers 110 kW of power at 3 600 r/min and a whopping 350 Nm of torque at 1 800 to 2 400 rpm. It is coupled to a six-speed manual transmission.

Exterior changes include a new grille with a silver metallic finish up front while most models are shod with sporty new alloy wheels. The new, aerodynamic exterior mirrors now incorporate indicator repeaters while there’s a new Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) badge at the rear of the vehicle.

Highlights of the refined new interior include dual zone control climate control, a new premium audio system that includes USB input as well as Bluetooth and iPod connectivity, improved steering wheel mounted controls, and a reverse camera depending on the particular model.

The changes to the drivetrain are even more meaningful. The EJ range of engines has been replaced by the new FB range, which offers improved combustion efficiency, reduced emissions and enhanced drivability.

There’s also a new flagship model: the Forester S- Edition, which is differentiated from the rest of the range by a unique colour selection, a black front grille, STI-design 17-inch alloy wheels, a rear spoiler and rear privacy glass. It is powered by a petrol 2.5-litre turbocharged Boxer engine that pumps out 193 kW of power at 6 000 rpm and 347 Nm of torque at 2 800 to 4 800 rpm. It is matched to a five-speed automatic transmission, which offers paddle-shift manual control.

Chunky, funky and fun!

Finland – Even in snow and at extremely low temperatures, the new Mercedes-Benz Vito was able to show its strengths and prevail against its competitors. As in previous years, at the invitation of the Finnish motoring magazine Auto, tekniikka ja kuljetus, motoring editors from Finland, Sweden and Norway tested vans in the weight class up to three tonnes.

The numerous criteria were divided into familiar categories such as handling, fuel consumption, load capacity and performance, plus aspects specifically relevant to cold regions, e.g. cold-starting ability, heating and mirror/window defrosting.

At the end the new Mercedes-Benz Vito 116 CDI had clearly gained most points, and won the title. This successful venture was aided by the numerous new features with which the new generation has been equipped with lately.

The centrepiece is a completely newly developed, particularly economical and environmentally friendly engine, which impresses with its refinement thanks to balancer shafts. The new six-speed ECO Gear manual transmission has a wide ratio spread for excellent performance, as well as low consumption and emission values.

The driving dynamics and handling of the Mercedes-Benz Vito benefit from rear-wheel drive. In addition, the new Vito has the benefit of a completely newly developed, optimally configured suspension.

If you wondered, as I did, as to the special fuel that must have been used due to "freezing," it's worth remembering that in Europe they use different diesel fuels to those we find in South Africa. Normal in Central Europe is a fuel which is fine down to -15°C, for country's such as Sweden or Finland (really cold winters), the fuel is added with "special" applications that allow for temperatures often below that -15°C minus ceiling.

Even more operating convenience, greater comfort and a higher-quality atmosphere round off the list of further developments in the interior of the Vito. Whether the new shift lever, the push buttons in the upper array of the centre console or the upgraded, optional overhead console – the Vito is now more user-friendly than ever before.

There are also numerous new exterior highlights on the Mercedes-Benz Vito. New reflector headlamps frame the radiator grille, with the standard daytime running lamps, which have their own light source, and fog lamps integrated into the housing.

In the sum of its attributes, the new Vito was able to convince the testers and demonstrate that reliability and robustness are also a matter of course in extreme winter conditions.

You can with a Caddy!

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is about to launch an extensively updated generation of its best-selling Caddy. The compact van with its practical rear sliding door system has been enhanced in every respect. Two new four-cylinder TDI engines offer improved fuel consumption, new design in the style of the new Amarok and T5 as well as an updated model range, make the new Caddy one of the most innovative compact vans in the world.

The Caddy was launched in South Africa in the last quarter of 2004 and has to date sold over 13 000 units (Commercial and passenger models). Since 2006, Caddy Panel Van’s average market share has been 57%.

The new Caddy Panel Van will be the first car in Small Panel Van segment to be equipped as standard with ESP on all models. Two new common rail TDI engines: Caddy’s new turbocharged diesel engines deliver extreme fuel efficiency and lower emissions.

Turbo diesel engines: The new 2.0 litre turbocharged four-cylinder (TDI) diesel engines deliver 81 kW and 103 kW respectively. Both engines use the quiet and efficient common rail direct injection. The 103 kW TDI is offered with a 6-speed DSG transmission. The 81 kW engine is offered with a 5-speed manual transmission.

Model line-up: The new Caddy model range has been packaged to fully satisfy the needs of the business and private customers. The Caddy is still available as a Panel Van for business use which accounts for nearly 76% of the sales volume and ‘People Mover’ for private use.

New features: The new standard features include daytime running lights, ESP, electromechanical power steering and anti-theft alarm system which is now also standard on the Commercial models.

The new Caddy features a greatly enhanced interior design. In addition to numerous detail modifications, such as new instrument cluster, steering wheels and materials, the new caddy is available with two to seven seats depending on model and specification.

The new seat configuration makes it possible to remove from the back of the vehicle not only the third-row bench seat (optional on Crew Bus and Trendline and standard on Maxi Trendline) but the second row of seats as well. The Caddy Panel Van thus produces an enlarged cargo space of up to 3,200 litres (Caddy Maxi Panel Van: 4,200 litres; Caddy Maxi Crew Bus: 4,130 litres; Caddy Trendline: 3,030 litres; Caddy Maxi Trendline: 3,880 litres).

The passenger compartment is now fully upholstered. The side and floor coverings have been changed. Furthermore, the new Caddy continues to set new standards in respect of intuitive controls and ergonomic design.

Retail Prices (VAT Included and emissions tax on passenger models)

Commercial Models

Caddy Panel Van 1.6i 75 kW =  R172 940

Caddy Panel Van 2.0 TDI 81 kW = R199 900

Caddy Maxi Panel Van 2.0 TDI 81 kW = R209 200

Caddy Maxi Crew Bus 2.0 TDI 81 kW =  R219 200

Passenger Models

Caddy Trendline 1.6i 75 kW = R240 110

Caddy Trendline 2.0 TDI 81 kW = R255 495

Caddy Maxi Trendline 2.0 TDI 81 kW = R269 880

Caddy Maxi Trendline 2.0 TDI 103 kW DSG = R292 080

Service and Warranty

The new Caddy commercial models come standard with a 2 year/unlimited kilometres warranty and passenger models come standard with 3 year/120 000 kilometre manufacturer warranty. Service and maintenance plans are optional on all models.

All models have a 12 year anti-corrosion warranty and 15 000 km service intervals.

Peugeot's stunning 3008 Hybrid

At the 2011 Geneva Motor Show which is happening right now, Peugeot is taking bookings for its numbered 3008 HYbrid4 Limited Edition.

With only 300 vehicles produced, the 3008 HYbrid4 Limited Edition is an exclusive version of the first Full Hybrid Diesel car in the world. Orders can be placed through the network and pre-booked on the Internet from 3rd March 2011, in 11 European countries including Germany, Austria, Belgium, Spain, France, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Portugal, United Kingdom and Switzerland.

Customers buying this numbered edition — available straight after the show — will be the first to enjoy the benefits of the 3008 HYbrid4, which combines high environmental standards and driving pleasure: 200 h.p., 4-wheel drive, Mode ZEV, from 99 g/km CO2 in mixed cycle.

The choice of this limited edition guarantees the customer: a unique car with special high-end finishes —  Priority delivery guaranteed!

The 3008 HYbrid4 Limited Edition stands out for its distinctive, unique styling elements, designed to emphasise the elegance of the car and its technological features.

Externally, the black headlight lining with its chrome LED light strip, unique pearly white colour and chrome door handles highlight the special nature of this series.

Inside, the exclusive touches are the unique two-tone leather trim, a dashboard completely covered in leather and a numbered aluminium plate on the centre console. Not forgetting the Guérande-coloured overstitching on the door panels, central armrest and the whole dashboard, as well as a special steering wheel with aluminium thumb-rests.

Finally, the panoramic glass sunroof and front parking assistance complete the car's standard equipment.

The 3008 HYbrid4 Limited Edition will be on sale in France for €41,500.