Car South Africa (February 2020)

in 2016? Well, any improve- model have been left largely unad-
ment would likely be marginal dressed, still stemming from a de- The Kwid offers plenty of kit at the
as Renault SA disappointingly cidedly perched seating position

con rmed no changes have been and a lack of height adjustment price, with an eight-inch touchscreen
made to the vehicle’s structure. on the driver’s pew (the latter is
However, the French brand’s admittedly the norm in this seg- standard on some models
local arm did cryptically state the ment; just see the Hyundai Atos
facelifted Kwid has gained a “new road test on page 62). For taller
rear axle”, while 14-inch wheels drivers, this means a shortage of a new eight-inch touchscreen – more to lug around.
are now standard. Due to the headroom and the stowed sun complete with Apple CarPlay and Although Renault claims an im-
mysterious tweaks made to the visor partially obstructs the view. Android Auto functionality, and provement in road holding thanks

torsion-beam rear suspension and Add a xed steering column and relaying video from a reversing to the apparent ne-tuning of

the adoption of chunkier wheel those with lengthier limbs will camera – standard on Dynamique the rear axle and the adoption of

wells (plus a larger spare wheel), have to awkwardly adjust their and Climber variants. In addition, larger wheels, it proved dif cult
the luggage compartment has bodies to the controls rather than these derivatives gain a second to detect any discernible change
shrunk to 279 litres. the other way around. (rear-sited) 12 V power point, a on our brief drive. At times, the
Inside, the ergonomic shortcom- Still, at least the Kwid offers fast-charging USB port, rear power high centre of gravity and softly

ings which af icted the original plenty of kit at the price, with windows and electrically adjust- sprung suspension again deliver
able side mirrors. A redesigned an unsettling experience.
digital instrument cluster, revised While we applaud the inclusion
steering wheel and rear parking of ABS and dual airbags (but had
sensors, meanwhile, are stand- hoped for some additional struc-
ard across the range. tural reinforcements, as have been
The same powertrain is carried applied to the Brazilian-market
over with the naturally aspirated model), many of our misgivings
01 02
1,0-litre, three-cylinder petrol from that January 2017 road test –
engine still offering class-typical in which the original Kwid scored
03 04 outputs of 50 kW and 91 N.m. We a lowly 54/100 – remain. As does
again found the three-pot does the South African buying public’s
its best work – quite vociferous- enthusiasm for the nameplate.
ly – high up the rev range. It’s Add fresh looks, extra equipment
interesting to note the spec sheet and yet more value to the package
suggests the updated model and the Kwid’s local sales success
has gained around 40 kg, which story seems set to continue, safety
means the little engine has a bit concerns or not.











06

















07

01 The eight-inch touchscreen boasts Apple
CarPlay and Android Auto functionality.
02 A reversing camera is also included.
03 The steering wheel and instrument clus-
ter have been redesigned. 04 Climber model
gains a rear armrest. 05 Front-end styling
has been thoroughly overhauled. 06 Distinc-
tive LED daytime-running lights. 07 Climber
05
rides on 14-inch multi-spoke wheels.


CARmag.co.za CAR FEBRUARY 2020 49

drive
































































BMW M340i xDRIVE STEPTRONIC ETA: NOW WHERE WE
Spoonful of DROVE IT


sweetener





Just how close does the new M340i come to Johannesburg
matching the flavour of a high-fructose M car?

By: Marius Boonzaier Marius_CARmag
*Claimed figures

Price: R981 711 Engine: 3,0-litre, 6-cyl, turbopetrol Transmission: 8-speed automatic Power: 275 kW @ 5 500-6 500 r/min Torque: 500 N.m @ 1 850-
5 000 r/min 0-100 km/h: 4,4 seconds* Top speed: 250 km/h* Fuel consumption: 7,5 L/100 km* CO : 172 g/km Rivals: Audi S4; Mercedes-AMG C43
2

+ dynamism; direct steering; interior quality; engine ride is a touch too rm



“ ite”, according to the Oxford new, G20-generation BMW M340i, upcoming M3. However, driving applied to items such as the mod-
This tag has been applied to the
the only petrol six-cylinder 3 Series
el designation and trapezoidal
Dictionary, is a denomination
L for foodstuffs containing less with some dubbing it an “M3-lite”. in the local line-up (the 330i makes tailpipe trims, which house two
sugar than their standard, high-in- But does the current range-top- do with a four-pot) here did give us actual exhaust outlets on either
calorie counterparts. Labelled as ping 3 (until the halo M arrives in the opportunity to put its limits to end of the revised rear apron.
such, the aforementioned products 2021, that is) lack any avour and, the test ... or try, at least. Keeping in mind this 3 will be

are usually advertised as a healthier if not, does it have the same great The M340i looks distinctive. utilised mainly for everyday use
alternative, boasting the “same taste as an M car? We headed to Setting it apart from the four-cyl- and long-distance journeys, I leave
great taste” as the original. Although Kyalami for a taste test. inder variants is an M Perfor- the eight-speed torque converter
there are health bene ts involved Granted, a racetrack is not a mance kit, studded kidney grille to its own devices. With sport

in cutting back on sugar, I remain place the M340i will often frequent. and Cerium Grey metallic nishes. mode engaged, I plant my foot on


sceptical of the latter promise. That’s a task more suited to the This model-speci c hue has been the accelerator and take my rst



50 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za

taste of the new M340i. BMW’s ground clearance is perfectly suit-
claimed 0-100 km/h time of 4,4 ed to the billiard-smooth circuit.

seconds certainly seems plausible. However, some might nd the ride

In a real-world scenario, overtak- a touch too rm on local roads.
ing should be a cinch. The speedo- Fortunately, for those prioritising
meter climbs to 150 km/h before a comfort over dynamism, 18-inch
marker on the track suggests rm alloys are standard. The example


braking should be applied. we drove was tted with optional
The stoppers, with discs meas- 19-inchers.
uring 348 mm fore and 345 mm With the vehicle pointed in the
01 at the rear, do a commendable direction of the nal corner, the

job of reducing speed. But full slick eight-speed transmission
merit should go to the steering; it’s gears up a ratio as I depress the
perfectly weighted and quick. The short-travel pedal. Admittedly bit-
rear-wheel-biased all-wheel-drive ing off much more than I can chew,
system, meanwhile, inspires con- the car oversteers. The xDrive

dence when cornering, keeping system quickly steps in and keeps
the car planted, while the Pirelli P the rear composed. Approaching
Zero rubber provides ample grip. the straight, sport plus-mode now
The supportive M Sport seats, up- initiated, I relish the inline-six’s
holstered in bespoke Sensatec-Al- soundtrack. The M340i is both
cantara trim, keep you securely in sophisticated and fun to drive.

02 place. Again, taking into consid- Sporting a 3,0-litre turbopet-
eration its real-world application, rol engine generously endowed
I relish the inline-six’s soundtrack; the M340i should be adept at daily with 275 kW and 500 N.m, the
driving and especially capable as newcomer to the 3 Series line-up
the M340i is both sophisticated a long-distance cruiser. Equipped should slot in neatly between


and fun to drive with M Sport suspension, the the 330i (which received the
M340i’s 10 mm reduction in
second-highest road test score
from the CAR team in 2019) and
the still-to-arrive M3, which BMW
says will employ the most power-
ful engine in its segment (to the
tune of at least 375 kW).
The M340i xDrive does not
want for avour; it manages to

balance outright performance and
comfortable cruising capability
with aplomb. It boasts stellar
perceived interior build quality,
dynamic capability and an eager-
ness to be driven hard, all while
providing peace of mind with its
xDrive system.
Just one question remains:
does the new BMW M340i xDrive
have the same great taste as a
full-fat M car ? No, but it’s as near
as damnit.



03 01 Standard electronic M Sport rear
differential enhances traction and agility.
02 New M340i sheds 50 kg over previous
04 05 06
model. 03 Upgraded sport transmission
features hydraulic control system and
shorter gearing. 04 Model designation
displayed on the digital instrument cluster.
05 Grille aerodynamically optimised for a

low drag coefficient of 0,26 Cd. 06 Smooth
3,0-litre mill equipped with a new twin-
scroll turbocharger.



CARmag.co.za CAR FEBRUARY 2020 51

drive

































































DATSUN GO 1,2 LUX CVT ETA: NOW WHERE WE
Get in and Go
DROVE IT




With more consumers going clutchless, Datsun has
introduced a self-shifting variant of the popular Go Johannesburg


By: Jarryd Neves JarrydN_CARmag


*Claimed figures
Price: R184 200 Engine: 1,2-litre, 3-cylinder, petrol Transmission: CVT Power: 57 kW @ 6 000 r/min Torque: 104 N.m @ 4 400 r/min
0-100 km/h: n/a Top speed: 161 km/h* Fuel consumption: 5,0 L/100 km* C0 : 127 g/km Rivals: Kia Picanto 1,2 Start auto; Renault Kwid AMT
2

+ generously equipped; smooth-working CVT pricey compared with rivals; drivetrain feels lethargic on pull-away



eople are leaning towards update in the cabin comes in On pull-away, the CVT renders update is the inclusion of a seatbelt
the idea of owning a the form of a new seven-inch the Go a touch lethargic. Once up reminder for the front passenger,
P self-shifting vehicle but, infotainment system with smart- to speed, however, it easily keeps and the six-year/150 000 km war-
unfortunately, an auto is still out phone-mirroring. up with traf c and happily avoids ranty adds peace of mind.
of reach for many consumers. The 1,2-litre engine has seen high revs. Operation of the CVT There’s a caveat: the Go CVT is
Seeing as rivals Kia and Renault a slight power increase but the is via a chunky gear selector but R14 000 more expensive than the
already offer automatic variants biggest mechanical change is the there’s no manual override. manual. With a light clutch and

of their city runabouts, Datsun ve-step CVT. From start up, the Besides the new transmission, shift action, the manual is a doddle
introduced the Go CVT seeking a auto Go is notably hushed. While the Go boasts other signi cant to drive. However, if your commute

slice of that two-pedal pie. Datsun says this is down to the features that the manual variant is in traf c and the added safety

Appearance-wise, the Go smooth nature of the transmis- lacks: vehicle stability control features appeal, the CVT is a com-
remains unchanged. The biggest sion, the hatch feels more re ned. (VSC) and ESC. Another safety pelling alternative.




52 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za

‘Friendships, foes, murders, assassinations, the


inglorious underworld and the glorious world of


Springbok rugby ... this is the 1995 World Cup


winner James Dalton’s life story’

drive
































































CITROËN C3 1,2 PURETECH 60 kW FEEL ETA: NOW WHERE WE
More is more DROVE IT





Without a turbo, the entry-level C3 can feel gutless.
Still, there’s enough promise here
Johannesburg
By: Terence Steenkamp Terence_CARmag

*Claimed figures

Price: R239 900 Engine: 1,2-litre, 3-cyl, petrol Transmission: 5-speed manual Power: 60 kW @ 5 750 r/min Torque: 118 N.m @ 2 750 r/min
0-100 km/h: 13,2 seconds* Top speed: 169 km/h* Fuel consumption: 5,7 L/100 km* CO : 128 g/km Rivals: Honda Jazz 1,2 Trend; Hyundai i20 1,2 Motion
2

+ quirky design; spec levels; service plan weak engine; baggy gearshift



e at CAR generally take Let me explain. merging into traffic at anything sion doesn’t help the cause, either,
a conservative stance At the recent Gauteng-based above urban speeds requires shifting in an imprecise manner
W when recommending local launch of a revised Citroën a good deal of patience and a the PSA Group should have elimi-
vehicles to our readers, friends brand – read our road test of the helping of mental fortitude in the nated from its cars by now.
and families. As a rule, we endorse charming C3 Aircross on page 62 energy-sapping Highveld altitude. That’s why I’d suggest the
those cars which prioritise quality – the naturally aspirated 1,2-litre It’s curious that the 1,2-litre flagship Shine variant in the
engineering, value for money and engine, which forms the entry would feel so gutless considering two-model Citroën C3 range is
sensible spec over flashy mod- point to the Citroën range, felt its maximum torque output of the better buy. It gains a turbo for
cons and surfeit performance. In modestly punchy in its first three 118 N.m is delivered at a lowly outputs of 81 kW and 205 N.m
the case of this entry-level Citroën gears and bereft of any useful 2 750 r/min and the vehicle weighs coupled with a smooth-shifting
C3 1,2 Feel, I’m not convinced our motive force in its top two gears. a comparatively lithe 1 055 kg.The six-speed torque-converter auto-
usual approach is the best one. Overtaking slower vehicles or baggy five-speed manual transmis- matic transmission. Sure, there’s




54 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za

the not-insubstantial matter of a flair – that is, until the Peugeot 208 Aft, there’s less legroom than in I realise some buyers will be more
R50 000 price hike but it gains a and Renault Clio arrive – but that the most spacious small cars but, drawn to the competitive price
healthy dose of additional spec juxtaposes a somewhat spartan with some consideration from than dissuaded by a notable lack
to compensate (including those interior. A strongly horizontal front-seat occupants, four adults of real-world performance. If
whimsical Airbumps on the doors dashboard is chopped in half by can fit. Boot space, at just short those consumers live at the coast,
pictured here; press photos of the the seven-inch screen and vents, of 300 litres, looks competitive they might find the 1,2-litre’s
Feel weren’t available). the air coming through the latter on paper but note there’s quite a performance less of a worry. Until
On all other fronts, the C3 1,2 controlled by functions on that pronounced lip over which to haul I’ve driven this 60 kW model at
Feel makes a stronger case for screen. It’s more time-consuming heavy items. oxygen-rich altitudes, my recom-
itself. Standard spec is generous than using physical buttons but, While the 1,2-litre triple might mendation would be to take the
for a bottom-rung model and thankfully, the design of the men- be lacking in the performance turbocharged Shine for a spin, too,
includes electrically adjusting and us allows for big virtual controls stakes, it’s a refined engine before settling on a C3.
folding mirrors, LED daytime-run- and an easily deciphered menu which sounds strained only as it Whichever model you choose,
ning lights, cruise control, climate interface. Perceived quality is approaches the red line on the though, Citroën’s little hatch is
control, leather trim on the good without being outstand- analogue tachometer. That’s indic- an interesting addition to the
steering wheel and gearstick, plus ing. Plastics are uniformly firm ative of the C3 driving experience competitive small-car market and,
a seven-inch touchscreen-con- throughout aside from a padded as a whole: easy-going. Don’t thanks to quirky looks, generous
trolled infotainment system strip running across the facia expect Fiesta levels of dynamism spec and a five-year/100 000 km
with Bluetooth and smartphone and some soft-touch surfacing and the Citroën won’t disap- service plan and warranty, has all
mirroring. The list of safety items on the doors. A Polo feels point. The ride is soft – perhaps a the ingredients to be a success
includes six airbags, ESP and more upmarket. touch too soft? – leading to quite this time round.
traction control, and driver-atten- The driving position is sound pronounced body lean, while the
tion alert should concentration thanks to Citroën’s signature steering is lightly weighted and 01 Shorter than four metres, the C3 is one
levels wane. wide, angled seat bases providing moderately geared. The small of the B-segment’s smaller cars. 02 Rear
legroom, however, doesn’t suffer too much.
Visually, the C3’s avant garde comfortable under-thigh support, hatch is impressively stable at
03 Design is simpler than the exterior would
appearance is welcome in a plus rake and reach adjustment highway speeds. suggest but the layout and quality are sound.
segment generally bereft of visual on the steering column. So, good car, mediocre engine? 04 Airbumps standard on Shine model.





























01 02


03 04































CARmag.co.za CAR FEBRUARY 2020 55

fe ture





classic drive


























































More than four decades
separate these two
special 5 Series models.

















1976 BMW 530 MLE


01 02 04













03

















56 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za

01 No power steering here. Comfortable
05
Scheel bucket seats trimmed in blue
cloth. 02 Dog-leg five-speeder feels
tactile and allows for quick shifts. 03
Air-con has been ditched as one of
myriad weight-saving measures. 04 The
E12 racecar made its track debut at the
Republic Day Trophy race in ’76. 05 Based
on the 525i, the 530 MLE was fitted with
lightweight BBS Mahle wheels.


halo models. Driving side by side,
the F90 dwarfs the first-genera-
tion Five and provides a unique
photo opportunity. Inching closer
to the tracking vehicle, a light
Origin of M response from the stoppers. How-
prod on the brakes garners a faint

ever, their bite should improve
the more the car is driven, as it
still needs to be run in.
The M5 bids its South African

Finally restored to its former glory, we were given the rare relative auf Wiedersehen and
opportunity to drive the special SA-built 1976 BMW 530 MLE on track makes its way into the pits. With
one final lap remaining, I steer
the 530 MLE onto the straight.
By: Marius Boonzaier Marius_CARmag
Boasting 15 first-place finishes
Photos: Rob Till
from as many consecutive starts,
thus handing BMW three cham-
he mechanical units of the road-going version the five-speeder’s double-H layout pionship titles in three years, the
odometer reads were assembled the following before making a calculated shift E12 remains the most successful
143 950 km. An year. It’s believed only a few into second gear followed by a racing 5 Series in history.
T intricate dog-leg shift 530 MLEs remain in existence swift downward movement into I twist the metal key anti-
left and down puts the 530 MLE’s (just one racecar has survived) third.The close-ratio cog-swapper clockwise.The free-breathing
Getrag-sourced gearbox into first. and this is one of them. enables effortless changes. It’s six-cylinder goes to rest. The
The clutch response is in stark This car (serial number 770100) a pure, tactile experience. Sited odometer reads 143 960 km. I
contrast to the reaction of the belonged to BMW racing driver above the delicate lever’s wooden have a good feeling soon this
weighty accelerator. Releasing and race-team manager Peter knob is the original Sanyo Rally item’s numbered tumblers will
the left pedal with just the right Kaye-Eddie. It’s fitting that four II car radio. A centrally mounted continue rolling. Diederik Reits-
amount of throttle input requires previous employees of BMW analogue clock is surrounded by a ma, general manager of group
skill. But the tachometer’s needle South Africa who worked on plastic roundel dial, which can be communications at BMW SA, says
steadily rises and with it the the MLE production line in 1976 rotated to adjust the speed of the his wish for the restored 530 MLE
note of the atmospheric in- assisted with the restoration blowers; it’s an elegant design.The is that it’s never relegated to a
line-six. It resonates through the process carried out under the di- minute hand settles on 17h35. Of museum display but rather that it
cabin as the 3,0-litre’s revolu- rection of Luis Malhou of Custom my allocated 15 minutes with the be enjoyed on the road: driven, as
tions increase from adagio to a Restorations.The MLE is immacu- MLE, only 10 remain. it should be.
dynamic beat until it reaches a late, with only subtle wear on the Retracing its track-focused
crescendo. Car number 100 sets inside revealing its vintage. twin’s steps around Kyalami –
off down the main straight at Slight vibrations pulse through although at a more sedate pace Fast facts
Kyalami Circuit a mere two the cockpit. The speedometer than with lap times in mind
weeks after the completed pro- needle hovers over 50 km/h. – warrants concentration. This Engine: 3,0-litre, 6-cyl, petrol
ject was unveiled to the rhythm Windows rolled down, there’s no is interrupted by a V8 baritone Transmission: 5-speed manual
of Mango Groove’s “Special star”. synthesized sound permeating harmonizing with the MLE’s high- Power: 147 kW @ 6 000 r/min
Only 110 examples of the the MLE’s cockpit; it’s mechan- pitched six. A new-generation Torque: 277 N.m @ 4 300 r/min
type-1 530 MLE (Motorsport Lim- ical yet warm. Ample feedback M5 briefly occupies its spiritual 0-100 km/h: 9,3 seconds* (9,2**)
ited Edition) were produced at is relayed from the tarmac to forebear’s side mirror. The South Top speed: 208 km/h* (196,3**)
Rosslyn in Pretoria as homologa- the leather-clad tiller, which African-built 530 is arguably the Weight: 1 233 kg* (1 405**)
tion vehicles of the ’76 E12 race- requires a gradual tilt as the MLE genesis of all M cars. Engraved on Price in 1976: R10 595
car, which competed in the local approaches a left-hand corner. its engine plaque is the renowned *Claimed figures **Tested by CAR
Modified Production Series until The unusual dog-leg transmis- single letter M, which has come to (January 1977)
the mid-1980s. An additional 117 sion necessitates a quick glance at signify the Bavarian automaker’s



CARmag.co.za CAR FEBRUARY 2020 57

feature



































































































IF
























58 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za

The Bloodhound LSR team overcame f you haven’t already, head over to

numerous challenges over the years Bloodhound LSR’s (Land Speed Record)
YouTube channel or Instagram account
to finally accomplish their first set of to watch the team’s videos. Apart from
runs on Hakskeen Pan behind-the-scenes footage and expla-
nations of what will be the fastest land
speed car of our generation, to witness
the LSR drive at over 1 000 km/h on
By: Wilhelm Lutjeharms WilhelmL_CARmag
I Hakskeen Pan is a sight to behold.
Photos: Jotham van Tonder









CARmag.co.za CAR FEBRUARY 2020 59

feature






















































01
FAST FACTS
02 03 04
Fuel (jet engine): Jet A
Fuel (rocket): H2O2
Length: 13,0 metres
Weight: 5,5 tonnes
(>8,0 tonnes for record run)
Combined power: ±93 000 kW
0-1 010 km/h: 50,0 seconds
01 This is not your average runabout Pan and I was immediately im- Track length: 20 km
in which to pop to the shops... 02 The 05
restricted view from the cockpit. 03 The pressed with the sophistication Return date to SA:
control centre and steering wheel. 04 and professional aura apparent at 10-16 months
The EJ200 jet engine currently propelling every level of this operation. Then
the Bloodhound. 05 Cool, calm and very
collected: the Bloodhound’s pilot, wing again, we are dealing with a pro-
commander Andy Green. 06 How Haks- totype car that will hopefully soon 06
keen Pan looks following a high-speed run. be achieving land speeds that will

be a rst for humankind.
Years ago, we paid the team Tony Parraman, an engineer who
a visit when the strip was being did a stint with the Royal Air Force,
cleared of stones (16 000 tonnes took me through the car, from the
2
over 24 km ) by members of the nose tip to the rear wheels.
local community. Fast-forward At the front is a shiny, sharp,
to the end of 2019 and, after all hollow, 3D-printed titanium nose. speeds increase. The team takes commander Andy Green (the
the challenges of this project – There are around 200 pressure this data after each run and com- current land speed record holder
including nearly going bankrupt sensors hidden in tiny holes all pares it with their prediction. If and an ex-RAF pilot) sits in a car-
and the car being cut up and sold over the car, which assist with there is a correlation between the bon- bre monocoque. The shell is

– the team and its new owner, Ian the computational uid dynamics two sets of data with no diversion, thicker than the one on a modern

Warhurst, pulled off a remarkably (CFD) model to calculate what the the team continues testing. F1 car. Electronics and sensitive
successful visit to South Africa. air around the car is doing at var- The front of the car is based equipment are stored in the front
We arrived at the base camp ious speeds. This helps the team on Formula One technology and to keep them away from the heat
next to the “track” on Hakskeen predict how the car will behave as is made up of carbon- bre. Wing generated at the back of the car.








60 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za

At 1 280 km/h,

the wheels generate

about 45 000 G





The wheels are 930 mm in
diameter, weigh 100 kg each and
are made from forged aluminium
alloy. Tony talked me through
their manufacturing process (at
a cost of £200 000 each), followed
by the careful balancing method
of shaving off mere grams from
these beautiful items.
At 1 280 km/h, these wheels will
be doing about 8 000 r/min, gener-
ating approximately 45 000 G. Just
let that sink in...The three sets of
wheel bearings were the very rst
parts to be speci ed.
The small windscreen changes
the direction of the air ow at high
speed. Tony explains: “When you
go through the sound barrier, that 07
shock wave is almost vertical.
As you go faster, the wave bends it needs to push the car through 08 07 The upper chassis holding the jet engine.
downwards. What you don’t want thicker air. 08 The nose stows equipment away from
the heat at the back of the car.


is supersonic air going into your The nal speci cs regarding the
intake for the engine, otherwise tment of the rocket, batteries and

the engine stalls. You need to slow electric motors that provide the the maximum deceleration force
down that air in some way. The power to fuel the rocket must still possible with these wheels on this

result is the air below the shock- be nalised. The fuel tanks are also desert surface is just 0,15 G. That
wave is going subsonic and the air made of carbon- bre with bladders is about 15% of the maximum

above the wave is going super- on the inside. There will be a tank braking performance of a modern
sonic.” The same type of stretched holding around 1 000 litres of high- car. The double parachute system
acrylic used on jet ghters is used test peroxide (hydrogen peroxide) serves as a backup.

for the small windscreen and is including the rocket pump. The The rear suspension compris-
about 50 mm thick. only emissions from this compact es a massive set of springs and
The cockpit’s hatch, Tony rocket are water and oxygen. dampers, wishbones and the delta
recalls, is probably the cheapest “When we do land-speed record “wings”. It’s one of the prettiest
design element on the entire car: runs, we have to refuel the car af- parts and I’m trying to compre-
“We got a piece of cardboard, cut ter each one; in those 60 minutes, hend how this system absorbs all
an oval in it and then bent it. I’m we have to turn the car around the forces at such high speeds.
about the same size as Andy, so and get it ready for its second run.” Spray dust and base drag are

as long as I could t through the Subsonic, trans-sonic and su- terms used to explain aerodynam-
opening, we knew he would, too.” personic are the three speeds this ic challenges the team face but
Behind the cockpit, the design car has been designed to conquer doors with holes in them that that is part of the ongoing research
inspiration for the car changes in terms of performance and aer- open vertically and are sited in and development that makes
from motorsport to aerospace. odynamic ef ciency. Interestingly, front of the rear wheels. They this project so awe-inspiring. The


Here are the lower and upper once supersonic speeds have been deploy slowly over the course of company is working hard to nd
chassis, the latter holds a Rolls- reached, Tony says, “Everything several seconds. sponsors to assist with this nal

Royce EJ200 jet engine from a Eu- tends to settle down as the air ow Finally, Andy can brake the con- part of the project. I can’t think of


ro ghter Typhoon. The jet engine over the car is uniform.” ventional way via the car’s wheels a better space for branding than on
does work a little harder on the The braking system includes to bring it to a stop. However, as one of the most exciting projects

ground than it would in the sky as a pair of carbon- bre air brake he told me during our interview, of the 21st century.






CARmag.co.za CAR FEBRUARY 2020 61

62 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za

test




Hyundai Atos



1,1 Motion





Hyundai’s revived Atos has once again set its sights on the ever-important budget segment




Price: R159 900 0-100 km/h: 14,50 seconds Top speed: 155 km/h Power: 50 kW Torque: 99 N.m CAR fuel index: 6,84 L/100 km CO : 127 g/km
2























































Comfy and well- Superior to its direct Let’s hope they can Good-value
equipped Atos is a rivals. Pity the bring in enough runabout
welcome addition driving position is to meet the Peter Palm
to this segment so compromised inevitable demand
Gareth Dean Terence Steenkamp Ian McLaren




uirky in design, packaging its compatriot Kia Picanto – estab- has paved the way for this name- such a compact package, even if
and name, the original lished itself as a viable entry-level plate to resume its role from the those plastic wheel covers will
QHyundai Atoz (yes, with a alternative to the likes of the long- departed i10 as the entry-point require cable ties to lock them in
z) arrived in South Africa at a time in-the-tooth Volkswagen CitiGolf to this thriving Korean brand. place in our market.
when our market still featured the and Toyota Tazz. Together with the Built on a new K1 platform, the Praise was not as forthcoming
likes of the Fiat Uno and Daewoo Getz and original Tucson, the Atos modern Atos may have retained about the new Atos’ interior pack-
Matiz. Its tall, narrow stance may played a signi cant role in the rise the relatively tall (1 560 mm) aging, notably its xed driving po-
have divided opinion, yet few ar- of the Hyundai brand in SA. stance of the original 1999 car sition. With no adjustment offered
gued against its plucky character Discontinued in 2013 (the i10 but is thankfully both longer (by on the steering column and only
and basic but functional interior. assumed the mantle as sole 115 mm) and wider (by 120 mm) a traditional fore-and-aft plus
By the time the rst signi cant budget contender), the recent de- than before. Available in just one backrest-rake movement available
update arrived in 2005 (together velopment of an all-new Hyundai derivative for now, the test team on the nevertheless comfortable
with a name change to Atos), the Santro – Atos as we know it – for was universal in its praise of the driver’s seat, all testers, short and
littlest Hyundai had – along with the all-important Indian market level of character and quirk within tall, noted compromised seating



CARmag.co.za CAR FEBRUARY 2020 63

test



MATCH-UP
behind a low-sited steering wheel need to manually lock the doors
and subsequently obscured instru- 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 once on the move. The absence
mentation. Sure, this is something of a rear window wiper or even
an owner would grow accustomed the option of a demist function is
to but it’s the weakest point in an arguably more jarring, though.
otherwise superb cabin. Another If the wider stance of the car
anomaly sees the controls for means more shoulderroom for
the electric front windows sited Hyundai Atos Datsun Go Renault Kwid occupants, unlike the relatively
1,1 Motion 1,2 Mid 1,0 Dynamique
behind the transmission lever. small (184 litres) luggage compart-
While hard plastics obviously Fresh styling, upmar- Coinciding with a 2019 Facelifted, the Kwid range ment, headroom has never been a
ket packaging and facelift was the inclusion now includes a second
abound – including on the sur- an appealing engine. of a second airbag and airbag to complement ABS weak point of the Atos package.
faces of various storage bins – it Well-considered standard ABS brakes. Standard added previously. Not as Weighing 68 kg more than the
is difficult to fault the levels of fit specification adds allure, infotainment system stable as the Atos on the Atoz tested in June 1999, the new
including safety. rivals Hyundai’s. open road.
and finish in the cabin relative to car’s sub-one-tonne frame is pow-
its cheaper-feeling rivals. Standard price: R159 900 price: R159 100 price: R154 900 ered by the brand’s Epsilon G4HG
air-conditioning and front electric four-cylinder engine mated with a
cyl/capac: 4/1 086 cm 3 cyl/capac: 3/1 198 cm 3 cyl/capac: 3/999 cm 3
windows aside, the fitment of a five-speed manual transmission.
power: 50 kW/5 500 r/min power: 50 kW/5 000 r/min power: 50 kW/5 500 r/min
seven-inch touchscreen info- Keen to rev, this 50 kW/99 N.m
tainment system with steering torque: 99 N.m/2 800 r/min torque: 104 N.m/4 000 r/min torque: 91 N.m/4 250 r/min s-o-h-c engine offers impressive
wheel-mounted controls that gears/drive: 5/F gears/drive: 5/F gears/drive: 5/F spirit, especially round town. With
feature both Bluetooth and smart- easy-to-operate gearing perfectly
0-100 km/h: 14,50 sec 0-100 km/h: 13,30 sec 0-100 km/h: 13,67 sec
phone mirroring functionality is set to cope with the tight confines
top speed: 155 km/h top speed: 161 km/h top speed: 152 km/h
a welcome inclusion. The latter of a hustle-and-bustle urban en-
is accessed via a USB port and fuel index: 6,84 L/100 km fuel index: 6,20 L/100 km fuel index: 5,60 L/100 km vironment, the trade-off is a more
includes a 12 V power socket. luggage capac: 184/792 L luggage capac: 200/760 L luggage capac: 224/840 L frantic execution on the open road.
However, some owners may feel In the absence of a sixth ratio, it’s
serv/maint plan: S1/15 000 km serv/maint plan: optional serv/maint plan: S2/30 000 km
a little short-changed with a return best to maintain 100 km/h cruising
USED OPTION (<2yrs)
to the traditional key-in-the-slot speeds to keep the revs from near-
central-locking system and the Mazda2 1,5 Dynamic The underrated, refined Mazda2 offers better standard spec and ing the 4 000 r/min mark.
a far superior safety rating. Stronger 1,5-litre engine is only slightly thirstier. Even without this optimal
extra gear and despite the likeli-
hood of more regular downshifts
to maintain momentum at
performance-sapping altitudes,
the Hyundai should match the
brand’s claimed sub-6,0 L/100 km
average fuel consumption.
The brand says it focused on
torsional rigidity in the Atos and,
as such, despite its relatively tall
stance, the new car feels suitably
stable on the road. The combi-
nation of featherlight steering
and soft suspension means the
Atos can prove lively when driven
enthusiastically. Yet, in real-world
terms, this Hyundai is easy to ma-
noeuvre and copes admirably with
most road imperfections.
A hot topic in this budget-con-
01
scious segment is safety. Both
Datsun and Renault have
02 03 04 recently upgraded their respec-
tive offerings and the decidedly


01 Neat interior includes touchscreen infotain-
ment. 02 Trip computer incorporates handy
distance-to-empty readout. 03 Four-cylinder
engine more refined than rivals’. 04 Standard
14-inch steel wheels with plastic covers.




64 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za

Gross frontal area: 2,30 m 2 Weight: 907 kg Drag coefficient: 0,33 Seating: 4/5
more substantial-feeling new HYUNDAI ATOS Headroom/kneeroom:
Atos arrives boasting standard 1,1 MOTION Headroom: 905 mm/632 mm
849 mm
ABS-assisted brakes – capable of 184/792 L
an average 3,16-second tested 1 828 mm
emergency stopping time – as 1 560 mm
well as dual front airbags. While 78 39% 751mm
neither the updated Go and Kwid /100 61% 165 mm
has undergone fresh Global NCAP 2 400mm
3 610 mm
crash testing (the previous Go+
lists a one-star driver and two- Built in India Width (excl. mirrors): 1 782 mm Track front/rear: 1 465/1 481 mm Tow rating (unbraked): 0 kg
star passenger rating; the Kwid
SPECIFICATIONS POWER & TORQUE ENGINE SPEED
offers a solitary star for both), the
Hyundai boasts a slightly more ENGINE
100 200 210 5th
palatable two stars for both front Cylinders: four, inline, transverse 90 180 180 er 4th
and rear passenger protection. Fuel supply: multipoint electronic fuel 80 160 150 Max torque Max po
injection, petrol 70 140 3rd
The inclusion of Isofix points is 60 120 120
Bore/stroke: 67,0/77,0 mm 50 Torque 100
also a step in the right direction. Cubic capacity: 1 086 cm 3 40 80 90 2nd
Compression ratio: 10,1 to 1 30 Power 60 60 1st
20
40
30
TEST SUMMARY Valvegear: s-o-h-c, two valves per kW 20 km/h
10
N.m
A more complete package than its cylinder 1 2 3 4 5 6 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Revs per minute (x 1 000) Revs per minute (x 1 000)
forebear, the role of the Atos with-
ENGINE OUTPUT
in Hyundai’s greater portfolio re- Oil filter: R120,50 Air filter: R220,55 Left headlamp: R4 651,10
Max power ISO: 50 kW
PARTS
mains unchanged. Besides provid- Power peak/Red line: 5 500/6 500 r/min PRICES* Left rear tyre: R748,00 Windscreen: R5 240,64 Brake pads
ing a compelling entry point (with Max torque: 99 N.m (front set): R1 384,00 Cambelt (incl. tensioner): R2 403,46
the Grand i10 positioned just above Torque peak: 2 800 r/min Total parts basket: R14 768,25
it) into this successful Korean
TRANSMISSION TEST RESULTS
brand, the Atos package has prov- Type: five-speed manual
en quite the segment disrupter 1st gear/2nd gear: 3,55/1,89 to 1 Test conditions**: Ambient temp/barometric press: 27 °C/1 009 hPa Test car’s odometer: 1 865 km
over the years. While the original 3rd gear/4th gear: 1,24/0,91 to 1 BRAKING TEST
model offered us a refreshing taste Top gear: 0,74 to 1 TOP SPEED
Reverse gear: 3,63 to 1 Manufacturer’s figure: 155 km/h Best/worst stop: 2,90/3,41
of clever packaging and a relatively Average of 10 stops/rating: 3,16/good
Final drive: 4,44 to 1
solid build quality compared to Drive wheels: front SPEEDO CALIBRATION (true speed) Average stopping distance: 42,97 m
the Fiat Uno, and the later updated Driver aids: none 10 stops from 100 km/h measured in seconds.
60 80 100 120
version tempted more than 45 000 58 77 97 117 FUEL CONSUMPTION
South African buyers away from BRAKES
Front: 241 mm ventilated discs Odometer error: 2,48% under Fuel tank: 35 L
the establishment, the smallest Estimated tank range (fuel index): 512 km
Rear: 180 mm drums
Hyundai has a habit of popping up Hydraulics: ABS with EBD ACCELERATION (sec) Taxable CO rating: 127 g/km
2
at just the right time. Manufacturer’s figure
Despite our misgivings about WHEELS AND TYRES 0-60 0-80 0-100 0-120 0-140 5,70
22,10
35,31
5,94
9,49
14,50
Tyre make: Hankook Kinergy ECO
safety including structural integri- L/100 km
Tyre size (f/r): 165/70 R14
ty, the success enjoyed by the Kwid
Spare – type and location: full-size steel, OVERTAKING ACCELERATION (sec)
and Go proves how eager cash- under boot board CAR fuel index
strapped consumers are to enjoy 3rd 4th Top 6,84
L/100 km
the freedom of mobility afforded by STEERING 40-60 5,69 6,94 9,19
Type: rack and pinion, 60-80 5,61 6,64 9,04
personal transport. The arrival of Fuel route
electric power assist 80-100 6,17 7,36 9,59
the refined Atos, at a price aimed Lock to lock: 3,4 turns 100-120 8,73 8,80 12,79 5,30
L/100 km
squarely at those two, should be Turning circle diameter: 10,2 m 120-140 - 12,88 18,55
seen as a breath of fresh air.
Backed by a big dealership SUSPENSION Power/mass: 55 W/kg Power/litre: 46 kW/litre PERFORMANCE
Front: independent, MacPherson struts, Torque/litre: 91 N.m/litre Cabin noise level at idle: 42 dBA
network and steady resale values, FACTORS
coil springs, anti-roll bar Engine speed (at true 120 km/h in top gear): 3 673 r/min
a seven-year/200 000 km warranty Rear: torsion beam, coil springs
(including two years’ drivetrain cov-
Airbags: front Air-con: manual Audio system: radio/aux-in/USB/
er but excluding some components) WARRANTY & SERVICE INTERVALS FEATURES Bluetooth/smartphone mirroring Cruise control: no Sat-nav: no
and a service plan to cover the first 7-year/200 000 km warranty (see copy) CHECKLIST Park assist: no Windows: electric front Trip computer: standard
1-year/15 000 km service plan
scheduled visit to the workshop, Driver seat adjust: manual Folding rear seat: standard Upholstery:
Service every 15 000 km cloth Isofix anchorages: outer rear Steering adjust: no Steering audio controls:
the arrival of the new Atos should
standard Tyre sensors: no Wipers auto-on: no Headlamps auto-on: no Head-up
make for interesting voting for our
display: no
2020 Top 12 Best Buys awards come
the April issue. *Prices as recommended by manufacturer **All tests conducted at sea level



CARmag.co.za CAR FEBRUARY 2020 65

Citroën C3 Aircross 1,2


PureTech 81 kW Turbo Shine AT





The C3 Aircross enters a tough segment; has Citroën done enough to sway

potential T-Cross and EcoSport buyers?



Price: R359 900 0-100 km/h: 11,74 seconds Top speed: 184 km/h Power: 81 kW Torque: 205 N.m CAR fuel index: 7,80 L/100 km CO : 146 g/km
2

























































Joins the T-Cross I miss the Air- Chic, sophisticated A unique product
as the small cross- bumps! Citroën’s and competitively that offers great
over to beat best hope is to priced comfort and
Terence Steenkamp retain a level Nikesh Kooverjee convenience
of quirkiness Wilhelm Lutjeharms
Ian McLaren


ccording to Citroën’s own public to notice it’s back. T-Cross, Ford EcoSport and new- offer: Platinum Grey, Soft Sand
research into potentially The rst variant to make its comer Hyundai Venue (page 38). and Natural White featured here.
A rejoining the South Afri- way into the CAR test garage is The C3 Aircross press unit Some team members did have
can market, some motorists were the C3 Aircross which neatly slots was met with great intrigue by reservations about the muted
unaware the brand exited the between the equally funky C3 the CAR team eager to acquaint hues. Citroën South Africa might
country at the end of 2016. After hatchback and C5 Aircross (look themselves with the rst Citroën want to consider adding brighter

a brief hiatus, the carmaker has out for a test for that midsize SUV on test in three years. Judging by shades to the palette in the future.

now returned and, with a range of in next month’s issue). With this appearance alone, rst impressions One tester commented that the
cars sporting a generous level of small crossover, Citroën aims to were positive. It’s refreshing to see Citroën may be overlooked when
standard speci cation, impressive snatch a substantial percentage a vehicle on the road that so closely parked next to a Volkswagen
service plan and a splash of col- of market share from established resembles the original concept car. T-Cross similarly personalised
our, the manufacturer wants the rivals such as the Volkswagen Three exterior colours are on to the orange example we




66 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za

test




The vivid orange accents won favour
MATCH-UP
1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3
with the CAR team




tested in December 2019. One tester mentioned that, as the
If you were wondering whether C3 Aircross is tall in structure,

the rm has toned down its sense the addition of the rubber items
Volkswagen T-Cross 1,0 Citroën C3 1,2 PureTech Ford EcoSport 1,0 Eco-
TSI 85 kW Highline DSG 81 kW Turbo Shine AT Boost Titanium Auto of quirkiness elsewhere with the would visually break up the ex-
small crossover, the answer is a panse of bodywork.
The current segment lead- Separated by only one The oldest car here,
er offers dollops of brand point, the Citroën proves a the top-spec EcoSport resounding “no”. The Aircross’ This model is the top-of-the-
cachet, polished road worthy competitor to the makes do with an eye-catching Spicy Orange trim range Shine derivative (the en-
manners and an extensive T-Cross. It’s generously award-winning 1,0-litre highlights extend to the bulbous try-level Feel is available for R20 000
dealer network. Standard equipped and boasts triple and loads of kit.
service plan is compara- an excellent standard Not as accomplished as headlamp clusters, mirror caps, less) and doesn’t want for much.
tively poor, though. service plan. its rivals, though. roof rails and those Venetian It ships standard with automatic
blind-style rear-quarter side headlamps (halogen where the
price: R365 000 price: R359 900 price: R355 500 windows. Divisive as they may T-Cross Highline features LEDs),

cyl/capac: 3/999 cm cyl/capac: 3/1 199 cm 3 cyl/capac: 3/999 cm 3 be – considering the dyed-in-the- foglamps, rain-sensing wipers and
3
wool South African buyer’s market electrically folding mirrors. Keyless
power: 85 kW/5 000 r/min power: 81 kW/5 500-6 000 r/min power: 92 kW/6 000 r/min
– the vivid motif won favour with start and entry is also included.
torque: 200 N.m/2 000-3 500 r/min torque: 205 N.m/1 500 r/min torque: 170 N.m/1 400-4 500 r/min
the majority of the CAR team. A The orange accents continue
gears/drive: 7/F gears/drive: 6/F gears/drive: 6/F
pair of chrome strips extending on the inside. In comparison with
0-100 km/h: 11,19 sec 0-100 km/h: 11,74 sec 0-100 km/h: 12,70 sec from the Chevron moniker spans the small crossover’s sculpted

top speed: 193 km/h top speed: 184 km/h top speed: 181 km/h the grille and surrounds the slim bodywork, the facia is more angular
daytime-running lights to add in design. Orange is used sparingly
fuel index: 6,36 L/100 km fuel index: 7,80 L/100 km fuel index: 7,60 L/100 km
sophistication. The taillamps’ on the leather-wrapped steering
luggage capac: 200-272/856 L luggage capac: 200-304/920 L luggage capac: 288/864 L
3D graphics look great but the wheel and rectangular air vents,
serv/maint plan: S3/45 000 km serv/maint plan: S5/100 000 km serv/maint plan: S4/60 000 km absence of Airbumps did have while the squared-off pews gain
USED OPTION (<2yrs) testers scratching their heads. The
decision to offer these items only
Mazda CX-5 2,0 Active Auto The stylish CX-5 comes well equipped, is beautifully built and has to the smaller C3 hatchback (page 01 Central armrests fore and aft standard
loads of occupant and packing space. Higher-specced models are dropping in price. Our only on Shine models. 02 Apple CarPlay and sat-
concern versus the Aircross is a fuel-consumption penalty. 54) and not to the car which bears nav included. 03 Lane-departure warning
the Aircross badge is puzzling. active from 60 km/h.

01 02
























03

























CARmag.co.za CAR FEBRUARY 2020 67

test






orange inserts and contrast stitch- ment on the German crossover’s:
ing. Perceived interior build quali- the sliding rear bench offers
ty is impressive, with a swathe of knee clearance of between 583
soft-touch material covering the and 716 mm. That forward setting
horizontal dash and perforated liberates an additional 104 litres of
mesh-like fabric on the door han- boot space, too.
dles. Although there are myriad The C3 Aircross impressed the
hard plastics throughout the CAR team with its levels of prac-
cabin, they feel robust. ticality and comfort, and this ex-
The cockpit features a seven- tends to its driving manners. The
inch infotainment system with suspension is softly sprung and,
smartphone-mirroring function- even riding on optional 17-inch
01
ality, Bluetooth connectivity and wheels (16-inchers are standard

a USB port. The climate control tment), the ride is fuss-free. Body
can be set to a pleasingly low roll is present when cornering
temperature of 14 °C for when but that’s expected for a car of its

summer strikes, although the pro le. Road and wind noise are
touchscreen display used to well suppressed and the 1,2-litre
tweak the system can be slightly triple is vocal only when ooring

laggy. The multifunction tiller the accelerator.
02
offers rake and reach adjustment The PureTech turbopetrol
and the driver’s seat can be man- engine produces 81 kW and

ually netuned for height. 205 N.m torque, the latter from as 05
Measuring 4 154 mm long and low as 1 500 r/min, and it propels
1 756 mm wide, the Citroën is
more compact than the T-Cross.
01 Roof rails are striking in hue and design.
However, thanks to its clever 02 Black gloss trim accentuates 3D day-
design, it boasts additional time-running lights. 03 Orange highlights
found on optional 17-inch alloys. 04 Valua-
headroom all-round (921 mm up
bles can be stowed in compartment under
front and 861 mm aft), while rear boot board. 05 Quirky styling but omission
03 04
kneeroom is a slight improve- of Airbumps puzzling.

























































68 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za

Gross frontal area: 2,59 m 2 Weight: 1 289 kg Drag coefficient: 0,33 Seating: 5
CITROËN C3 AIRCROSS Headroom/kneeroom:
1,2 PURETECH 81 KW 861/583-716 mm
the Aircross to 100 km/h in 11,74 Headroom:
seconds. Overtaking acceleration TURBO SHINE AT 844/921 mm 1 841 mm
from 120 to 140 km/h is rated at 200-304
1 637 mm /920 L
8,46 seconds.
The crossover excelled in our 79 61% 39% 682 mm
rigorous 10-stop braking test, too, /100 178 mm
with a best time of 2,84 seconds 2 604 mm
4 154 mm
and an average of 2,90 seconds
earning it an “excellent” rating. On Built in Spain Width (excl. mirrors): 1 756 mm Track front/rear: 1 513/1 491 mm Tow rating (unbraked): 450 kg
our standardised 100 km mixed-
SPECIFICATIONS POWER & TORQUE ENGINE SPEED
use fuel route, the C3 Aircross
sipped 7,2 litres (Citroën claims ENGINE
a fuel-consumption gure of Cylinders: three, inline, transverse 100 250 280 6th

5th
Fuel supply: electronic direct fuel 90 Torque 225 240
6,5 L/100 km). 80 200 Max torque Max power
injection, turbocharged, intercooled, petrol 70 175 200 4th
60 150
Bore/stroke: 75,0/90,5 mm 50 Power 125 160 3rd
TEST SUMMARY Cubic capacity: 1 199 cm 3 40 100 120
30 75 80 2nd
One. That’s how many points sepa- Compression ratio: 10,5 to 1 20 50 1st
40
10
rate the C3 Aircross 1,2 PureTech Valvegear: d-o-h-c, four valves per cylinder kW 25 km/h
N.m
1 2 3 4 5 6 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Shine AT from the segment-lead-
ENGINE OUTPUT Revs per minute (x 1 000) Revs per minute (x 1 000)
ing Volkswagen T-Cross 1,0 TSI
Max power ISO: 81 kW
85 kW Highline DSG, which Power peak/Red line: 5 500-6 000/5 500 r/min Oil filter: R184,00 Air filter: R360,00 Left headlamp: R5 005,00
PARTS
scored 80/100. Max torque: 205 N.m PRICES* Left rear tyre: R1 412,00 Windscreen: R5 048,00 Brake pads
The Citroën packs dollops of Torque peak: 1 500 r/min (front set): R2 037,00 Cambelt (incl. tensioner): R2 028,00
Total parts basket: R16 074,00
visual punch and that quirkiness
TRANSMISSION
the brand is known for. Although
Type: six-speed automatic TEST RESULTS
it’s not as “out there” as some CAR 1st gear/2nd gear: 4,46/2,51 to 1
members had hoped for, in our 3rd gear/4th gear: 1,56/1,14 to 1 Test conditions**: Ambient temp/barometric press: 27 °C/1 018 hPa Test car’s odometer: 1 573 km
conservative market that should 5th gear/Top gear: 0,85/0,67 to 1 BRAKING TEST
count in the C3 Aircross’ favour. Reverse gear: 3,39 to 1 TOP SPEED
Final drive: 3,68 to 1 Manufacturer’s figure: 184 km/h Best/worst stop: 2,84/2,96
Considering its compact Average of 10 stops/rating: 2,90/excellent
Drive wheels: front
dimensions, it’s deceptively Driver aids: ESC (electronic stability SPEEDO CALIBRATION (true speed) Average stopping distance: 39,93 m
spacious, with ample head- and control), hill start 10 stops from 100 km/h measured in seconds.
60 80 100 120
kneeroom front and back; tall 57 77 97 117
BRAKES FUEL CONSUMPTION
occupants should t comfortably

Front: 266 mm ventilated discs Odometer error: 0,30% under Fuel tank: 45,0 L
on the rear bench. In the top- Est. tank range (fuel index): 577 km
Rear: 249 mm solid discs
spec Shine, the C3 Aircross Hydraulics: ABS with EBD and EBA ACCELERATION (sec) Taxable CO rating: 146 g/km
2
offers generous standard features
0-60 0-80 0-100 0-120 0-140 Manufacturer’s figure

with an impressive ve-year/ WHEELS AND TYRES 4,96 7,87 11,74 16,87 24,55 6,50
100 000 km service plan (and war- Tyre make: Bridgestone Turanza T001 L/100 km
Tyre size (f/r): 215/50 R17
ranty of the same duration). It’s
Spare – type and location: space-saver, OVERTAKING ACCELERATION (sec)
relaxing to drive, with absorbent under boot board CAR fuel index
suspension and a punchy 1,2-litre AT 7,80
L/100 km
turbopetrol engine. STEERING 40-60 2,27
60-80
2,96
Will this be enough to sway Type: rack and pinion, 80-100 3,99 Fuel route
electric power assist 100-120 5,42 7,20
local consumers who regard
Lock to lock: 3,1 turns 120-140 8,46 L/100 km
brand cachet, dealer network and Turning circle diameter: 10,8 m
resale value as some of the most
important aspects when shop- SUSPENSION Power/mass: 63 W/kg Power/litre: 68 kW/litre PERFORMANCE
ping for a new car? Will they be Front: independent, MacPherson struts, Torque/litre: 171 N.m/litre Cabin noise level at idle: 43 dBA FACTORS
Engine speed (at true 120 km/h in top gear): 2 507 r/min
compelled to take the C3 Aircross coil springs, anti-roll bar
Rear: torsion beam, coil springs
for a test drive? Time will tell. Airbags: front/side/curtain Air-con: climate Audio system: radio/
Citroën has certainly blown some WARRANTY & SERVICE INTERVALS FEATURES aux-in/USB/Bluetooth/voice control/smartphone mirroring Cruise
fresh air into the market with this 5-year/100 000 km warranty CHECKLIST control: standard Sat-nav: standard Park assist: standard Windows:
rst-generation C3 Aircross. It’s 5-year/100 000 km service plan all-electric Trip computer: standard Driver seat adjust: manual, incl.

a quirky car in a segment largely Service every 15 000 km height Folding rear seat: 60:40 split Upholstery: cloth Isofix anchorages: outer rear
Steering adjust: rake + reach Steering audio controls: standard Tyre sensors: standard
comprising conservative options
Wipers auto-on: standard Headlamps auto-on: standard Head-up display: no
... but backs up that air with real

substance. *Prices as recommended by manufacturer **All tests conducted at sea level



CARmag.co.za CAR FEBRUARY 2020 69

Mercedes-Benz GLE300d



4Matic 9G-tronic





Towering in stature, if not accomplishment, the entry-level version of the new GLE is a mixed bag



Price: R1 216 699 0-100 km/h: 8,50 seconds Top speed: 225 km/h Power: 180 kW Torque: 500 N.m CAR fuel index: 7,68 L/100 km CO : 169 g/km
2




























































Q7, X5, RR Sport, Nowhere near as Imposing design Head-turning in
XC90 – they’re accomplished as the and the engine its appearance but
all better and/ carefully specced punches above its lacks re nement

or cheaper versions I drove on weight but lacks pol- Nikesh Kooverjee
Terence Steenkamp the global launch ish in many areas
Ian McLaren Gareth Dean


ust over 20 years ago, the the segment but, while they did for attention. Now in its fourth sheetmetal. Take a stroll around

rst-generation M-Class carry a certain weight of pedigree, generation and pitched among this car and you’ll appreciate
J emerged from the shadows they weren’t as premium as the some accomplished opposition, just how hulking it is. Seated on
of the military-grade G-Wagen, M-Class and its rivals to follow; the GLE really needs to shine to a mildly tweaked version of the
kicking off what would eventually more of a Hunter Wellington boot honour its predecessors’ strong Mercedes-Benz MRA platform
become one of the most diverse than a Hugo Boss loafer, if you will. all-round performances in the which underpins a number of its
and hotly contested territories in Since the M’s entrance, the slew luxury-SUV segment. It’s a hefty larger sedan models and measur-
the automotive sphere: the luxu- of manufacturers moving into ask and, despite it impressing in ing 4 924 mm long, 1 947 mm wide
ry-SUV segment. the luxury SUV scene has come many areas, the latest GLE isn’t and 1 772 mm high, the GLE strikes
We could argue Land Rover’s in thick and fast, with the likes without its shortcomings. an imposing gure, wearing its
Range Rover Classic and Dis- of BMW’s X models, Porsche’s One area where the GLE cer- smooth skin over a two-box frame
covery were the progenitors of Cayenne and the Audi Q7 vying tainly doesn’t disappoint is the that houses a spacious interior.




70 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za

test





MATCH-UP This impression of roominess torque-converter transmission.
is furthered not only by the GLE’s With a modest 180 kW on tap at
1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 broad beam, but also by a gener- 4 200 r/min, the GLE300d looks
ous glasshouse and a second-row a little underpowered compared
bench with 793 mm of legroom. with the six-cylinder rivals occu-
With its squared-off air vents, a pying equivalent price and model-
massive swathe of dashboard and tier posts. Indeed, the union of
Mercedes-Benz
BMW X5 xDrive30d Range Rover Sport GLE300d 4Matic the broad TFT panel housing both low-displacement four-cylinder
Steptronic TDV6 S 9G-tronic instrumentation and infotain- engine and a vehicle weighing a

Practically packaged, Mechanically the oldest There’s no denying ment displays, the cabin is boldly shade over 2,3 tonnes shouldn’t
beautifully crafted and here by some margin (the its presence and the executed – the 64-colour ambient be a happy one; however, the
rewarding to drive; the bones of this car date back four-cylinder turbodiesel lighting pack, which illuminates GLE300d’s unit is a surprisingly
X5’s breadth of talents to 2013). Nevertheless, a surprises with its ability. the trim seams in the doors and keen performer and doesn’t feel
lends it serious appeal recent facelift, engaging Ride is unsettled and it’s
and spotlights the GLE’s dynamics and brand cachet expensive compared to its air vents, adds a welcome bit of as hobbled as you’d expect. The
pricing problem. make up for it. six-cylinder rivals, though. pizzazz – although our modestly 500 N.m of torque announces
specced test unit’s interior other- itself in a hearty dollop between
price: R1 194 296 price: R1 259 406 price: R1 216 699 wise felt quite plain in terms of its 1 600-2 000 r/min and no doubt
xtures and ttings. The plasticky plays an integral part in punting


cyl/capac: 6/2 993 cm 3 cyl/capac: V6/2 993 cm 3 cyl/capac: 4/1 950 cm 3
climate control strip shared with that weight off the line. A
power: 195 kW/4 000-4 400 r/min power: 190 kW/3 750 r/min power: 180 kW/4 200 r/min
the A-Class is a case in point. respectable 8,50-second
torque: 620 N.m/2 000-2 500 r/min torque: 600 N.m/1 750-2 250 r/min torque: 500 N.m/1 600-2 000 r/min The boot managed to accom- average 0-100 km/h sprint time
gears/drive: 8/4 gears/drive: 8x2/4 gears/drive: 9/4 modate 384 litres of our ISO and roughly two-second incre-
measuring blocks. Flattening all ments separating the 40-60 and
0-100 km/h: 6,78 sec 0-100 km/h: 7,70 sec est 0-100 km/h: 8,50 sec
the seats presents an impressive 60-80 km/h in-gear acceleration
top speed: 230 km/h top speed: 209 km/h top speed: 225 km/h
1 368 litres of utility space with a runs is testimony to its ability.
fuel index: 8,04 L/100 km fuel index: 8,30 L/100 km fuel index: 7,68 L/100 km at deck and virtually nothing in The assured way in which the

luggage capac: 384/1 432 L luggage capac: 376/1 296 L luggage capac: 384/1 368 L the way of wheelarch intrusion unit melds with the nine-speed
into the load bay. transmission means the engine
serv/maint plan: M5/100 000 km serv/maint plan: M5/100 000 km serv/maint plan: M5/100 000 km

Continuing in the ne tradition never feels overly stressed. Conse-
USED OPTION (<2yrs)
of alphanumeric model designa- quently, the expected four-cylin-
Maserati Levante Diesel A number of these diesel models fall within this price and model-year tions bearing little resemblance der turbodiesel clatter is instead
bracket. Not as practical as the others here; however, its sky-high image and striking design to what’s under the bonnet, the largely muted at motorway
compensate somewhat.
entry point to the GLE family speeds. The level of mechanical

mounts a 2,0-litre, four-cylin- re nement and a long-legged
01 Standard ambient lighting helps lift the solid but otherwise plain cabin. 02 Steering
wheel-mounted controls for phone and audio include trackpads. 03 Infotainment system’s der turbodiesel that feeds drive gait make the GLE a consummate
touchpad interface works well and is supplemented with “Hey Mercedes” MBUX. to all corners via a nine-speed long-distance cruiser.













02



























01 03




CARmag.co.za CAR FEBRUARY 2020 71

test






Outside its AMG models, road surfaces at low to moder- 01
Mercedes-Benz tends to leave ate speeds. The GLE’s ride never
sporty dynamics fairly low on the seems to completely settle under
priority list of handling traits and these conditions and becomes
that’s generally not a bad thing. especially jittery when coasting
Partnered with its refined and over regular corrugations. Our test
flexible engine, the GLE’s softly unit ran on standard steel springs
sprung undercarriage acquits it- and optional 20-inch rims shod
self well on the motorway. It’s fair with 50-profile rubber, so it will
to expect something of the GLE’s be interesting to see if the R29 000
proportions and weight to trip Airmatic air-sprung option offers
over its toes when presented with more composure.
01
twisty sections of road and, while The GLE has traditionally held
it’s not a complete pudding when the edge over most of its more
pressed into corners, spirited driv- urban-biased rivals when ven- 02
ing tends to unearth a noticeable turing off the beaten track. The
amount of body roll. And that, GLE300d’s standard 4Matic
along with light steering, stymies permanent all-wheel-drive sys-
fluid progression and accentuates tem marries a centre-mounted
the GLE’s bulk. limited-slip differential with input
Despite some nose-dive during from the vehicle’s braking and
our 100-0 km/h braking tests, the stability control systems to best
GLE returned an average of 3,09 attune to conditions underfoot.
seconds, garnering a “good” rating. Factor in a useful, if not towering,
Having grown accustomed to 190 mm of ground clearance and
Mercedes-Benz SUVs’ aptitude for it feels more at home off-tarmac
wafting effortlessly over all but than some cars in its bracket.
the most pockmarked road sur- Those wishing to venture further
faces, it came as something of a from the beaten track can specify 03
surprise to see the GLE’s feathers an optional off-road package that
being ruffled by minor lumps and
bumps in its path. 01 Head- and shoulderroom plentiful up front
Although softly sprung, things and the seats are well bolstered. 02 Crisp
MBUX infotainment part of the sizeable TFT
tend to go awry with the ride
display on the facia. 03 Imposing dimensions
quality on less-than-perfect and styling help the GLE stand out.

















































72 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za

Gross frontal area: 3,11 m Weight: 2 305 kg Drag coefficient: 0,29 Seating: 5

2
MERCEDES-BENZ
GLE300d Headroom/kneeroom:
883/793 mm
adds an adaptive-damping mod- Headroom:
ule to the suspension and uprated 4MATIC 9G-TRONIC 788/872 mm 2 026 mm
towing capacity. 384/
1 368 L
Given its price point, the 1 772 mm
GLE300d is not the most gener- 69 54% 47% 764 mm
ously equipped model in its class. /100 190 mm
While premium SUV staples such 2 995 mm
4 924 mm
as climate control, auto lights
and wipers, a slick touchscreen Built in United States Width (excl. mirrors): 1 947 mm Track front/rear: 1 685/1 705 mm Tow rating (unbraked): 745 kg
infotainment system and cam-
SPECIFICATIONS POWER & TORQUE ENGINE SPEED
era-assisted parking aids are
present, it’s disappointing to see ENGINE
keyless entry and ignition, fully Cylinders: four, inline, longitudinal 200 600 280 8th
7th
180
540
Fuel supply: electronic common-rail Torque 240
adjustable electric front seats and 160 480 Max torque Max power 6th
direct injection, turbocharged, 140 420 200 5th
leather upholstery (the GLE300d 120 Power 360 160
intercooled, diesel 100 300
4th
features fairly soft and supple Bore/stroke: 82,0/92,3 mm 80 240 120 3rd
60
Artico synthetic leather) feature Cubic capacity: 1 950 cm 3 40 180 80 2nd
120
40
20
on its equivalent rivals in our Compression ratio: 15,5 to 1 kW 60 km/h 1st
N.m
Valvegear: d-o-h-c, four valves per cylinder 1 2 3 4 5 0 1 2 3 4 5
Match-up section but not on the
Revs per minute (x 1 000) Revs per minute (x 1 000)
GLE300d. Thankfully, some of that
ENGINE OUTPUT
sting is softened by the engine’s Max power ISO: 180 kW Oil filter: R371,30 Air filter: R875,80 Left headlamp: n/a
frugal performance; it returned an Power peak/Red line: 4 200/4 600 r/min PRICES* Left rear tyre: R4 651,00 Windscreen: R12 776,00 Brake pads
PARTS
impressive 6,80 L/100 km on our Max torque: 500 N.m (front set): R3 721,50 Camchain (incl. tensioner): n/a
Torque peak: 1 600-2 000 r/min Total parts basket: R22 395,60 (excl. headlamp amd camchain)
100 km mixed-use fuel route.
TRANSMISSION TEST RESULTS
TEST SUMMARY Type: nine-speed automatic
Perhaps it was our positive rst 1st gear/2nd gear: 5,35/3,24 to 1 Test conditions**: Ambient temp/barometric press: 18 °C/1 022 hPa Test car’s odometer: 5 790 km

impression when sampling the 3rd gear/4th gear: 2,25/1,64 to 1 BRAKING TEST
GLE on its international launch 5th gear/6th gear: 1,21/1,00 to 1 TOP SPEED
7th gear/8th gear: 0,86/0,72 to 1 Manufacturer’s figure: 225 km/h Best/worst stop: 2,97/3,29
(visit CARmag.co.za for reviews Average of 10 stops/rating: 3,09/good
Top gear: 0,60 to 1
of the GLE400d and 450), or Reverse gear: 4,80 to 1 SPEEDO CALIBRATION (true speed) Average stopping distance: 42,29 m
the strangely unsettled quality Final drive: 3,27 to 1 60 80 100 120 10 stops from 100 km/h measured in seconds.
of our test unit’s ride, but we Drive wheels: all 58 78 97 117
Driver aids: ESC (electronic stability FUEL CONSUMPTION
walked away from the GLE300d
control), hill start Odometer error: 0,2% over Fuel tank: 65,0 L
with mixed feelings. We got the Est. tank range (fuel index): 846 km
impression the fundamentals BRAKES ACCELERATION (sec) Taxable CO rating: 169 g/km
2
were present but the execution Front: 375 mm ventilated discs
0-60 0-80 0-100 0-120 0-140 Manufacturer’s figure
felt curiously lacking. There’s no Rear: 330 mm solid discs 3,74 5,82 8,50 11,79 16,26 6,40
doubting the GLE’s presence and Hydraulics: ABS with EBD and EBA L/100 km
practical packaging, and the en-
WHEELS AND TYRES OVERTAKING ACCELERATION (sec)
gine’s ability to punch well above Tyre make: Michelin Latitude Sport 3 MO CAR fuel index
its weight was a pleasant surprise, Tyre size (f/r): 275/50 R20 AT 7,68
L/100 km
but the jittery ride quality and the Spare – type and location: space-saver, 40-60 1,51
1,99
60-80
fact that it wants for more stand- under boot board 80-100 2,65 Fuel route
100-120 3,35 6,80
ard speci cation for the price just

STEERING 120-140 4,59 L/100 km
seemed to take the wind out of
Type: rack and pinion, electric
the GLE’s sails. Granted, this is power assist
our rst (relatively low-specced) Lock to lock: 2,9 turns Power/mass: 78 W/kg Power/litre: 92 kW/litre PERFORMANCE

taste of the GLE, so we’re keen to Turning circle diameter: 12,0 m Torque/litre: 256 N.m/litre Cabin noise level at idle: 40 dBA FACTORS
Engine speed (at true 120 km/h in top gear): 1 643 r/min
see if a more generously equipped
SUSPENSION
model on air springs will atone for Front: independent, double wishbone, Airbags: front/side/curtain Air-con: dual-zone climate Audio system:
the GLE300d’s shortcomings. For coil springs, anti-roll bar FEATURES radio/USB/Bluetooth/voice control/smartphone mirroring Cruise control:
now, though, it looks as though Rear: independent, multilink, coil springs, CHECKLIST standard Sat-nav: standard Park assist: standard, incl. camera
Mercedes-Benz might have its anti-roll bar Windows: all-electric Trip computer: standard Driver seat adjust: part-
electric Folding rear seat: 60:40 split Upholstery: synthetic leather Isofix anchorages: outer
work cut out to remain a com-
WARRANTY & SERVICE INTERVALS rear Steering adjust: rake + reach Steering audio controls: standard Tyre sensors: standard
petitive player in the luxury-SUV
2-year/unlimited km warranty Wipers auto-on: standard Headlamps auto-on: standard Head-up display: optional
scene. 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan
Services according to onboard computer *Prices as recommended by manufacturer **All tests conducted at sea level



CARmag.co.za CAR FEBRUARY 2020 73

Peugeot 108 1,0 Active





Loaded with standard equipment, is the bang-for-buck new 108 worth

considering over the segment’s established rivals?



Price: R179 900 0-100 km/h: 16,41 seconds Power: 53 kW Torque: 93 N.m Top speed: 160 km/h CAR fuel index: 5,16 L/100 km CO : 99 g/km
2




























































A lovely little thing Gallic charm, Japa- A stylish addition The 108 shows
but vulnerable to nese mechanics and to the city car you don’t need to
the larger Swift decently equipped: segment compromise on
at the price what’s not to like? Jarryd Neves safety at this price
Terence Steenkamp Gareth Dean Marius Boonzaier




ith myriad offerings The sole model in the local The front apron is endowed with side-mirror caps with a distinctive
from Japan, Korea and line-up, this 1,0 Active certainly edgy headlamp clusters housing purple-and-white tartan pattern
W France already vying looks chic, especially in this Plum halogen headlights and LED day- (R1 596). The key can be speci ed

for cash-strapped (or cash-sav- colour scheme. A brighter hue time-running lights, plus standard to match the latter for R981.
vy) consumers’ attentions at the would signi cantly highlight its foglamps. The sculpted taillamps, On the inside, the exposed
bottom end of the market, another contoured sheet metal, though. meanwhile, are equipped with purple body panels of our press car
option has recently joined the fray Boasting similar design cues Peugeot’s familiar lion-claw motif. injected the otherwise two-tone
in the shape of the stylish Peugeot as larger Peugeots and familiar The funky hatchback’s exterior black-and-grey cabin with a dash
108. But has the release of the little dimensions from the related can be personalised with an array of colour. Although soft-touch

French car made the decision more Toyota Aygo, the French rm’s of items. Our test unit was tted materials are obviously absent,

dif cult, or will it enjoy only niche smallest vehicle does not look out with barcode-styled vinyl decals the hard plastics feel solid. Here,
appeal? of line with the rest of the range. (a R3 571 option) and a set of the seven-inch touchscreen dis-




74 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za

test



















02



















01


MATCH-UP
03
1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3









Suzuki Swift 1,2 GL MT Peugeot 108 1,0 Active Kia Picanto 1,0 Street MT
In entry-level GA guise, Peugeot’s city car is a The Korean rm’s boutique
the Swift won our award worthy contender in this hatch is stylish, solidly
in 2019’s Top 12 Best Buys segment. The 108 is a tri- constructed and drives
for budget cars. Boasting ple-threat, offering comfort well, but it loses out to
a higher level of standard features, safety equipment the new 108 in terms of

speci cation, the middle-tier and a class-leading standard equipment and
GL model is even better. service plan. service plan.
price: R181 900 price: R179 900 price: R179 995

cyl/capac: 4/1 197 cm cyl/capac: 3/998 cm 3 cyl/capac: 3/998 cm 3
3
power: 61 kW/6 000 r/min power: 53 kW/6 000 r/min power: 49 kW/5 000 r/min
04
torque: 113 N.m/4 200 r/min torque: 93 N.m/4 400 r/min torque: 95 N.m/3 750 r/min
gears/drive: 5/F gears/drive: 5/F gears/drive: 5/F
are treated to an additional There is an upside to the Peu-
0-100 km/h: 11,31 sec 0-100 km/h: 16,41 sec 0-100 km/h: 14,90 sec est 24 mm of kneeroom while boot geot’s diminutive measurements:

top speed: 170 km/h top speed: 160 km/h top speed: 155 km/h capacity is 152 litres. Utility space is it excels round town. The ride is
nearly 200 litres less than that of its comfy and, thanks to direct steer-
fuel index: 5,88 L/100 km fuel index: 5,16 L/100 km fuel index: 6,00 L/100 km
competitors’ highlighted left. ing, the vehicle lls gaps in traf c
luggage capac: 224/776 L luggage capac: 152/568 L luggage capac: 144/728 L
The cabin remains snug, though, with aplomb. As a result of its
serv/maint plan: S2/30 000 km serv/maint plan: S5/100 000 km serv/maint plan: S2/30 000 km and seated aft, even more so, 9,8-metre turning circle, manoeu-
especially in terms of headroom. vrability is excellent.
USED OPTION (<2yrs)
The majority of the CAR team Dispatching 53 kW and 93 N.m
Peugeot 208 1,2 Active If you’re sold on the brand, consider a year-old 208 with 20 000 km on commented unfavourably on the of torque to the front axle, the
the clock. More sophisticated than the 108, it does lack the smaller model’s new service plan.
latch-operated rear windows. The free-revving 1,0-litre triple is a
hindquarters are better suited to generally re ned unit, becom-
play – replete with Apple CarPlay, features a class-leading six air- those of ner stature (fortunately, ing strained only at higher revs.

Android Auto and Bluetooth con- bags, ESC and hill-start assist. Iso x child-seat anchorages are

nectivity – can be navigated via Built on the same platform as standard tment here). Headroom

a multifunction steering wheel. the Aygo, at 3 475 mm front to rear up front is acceptable, howev- 01 Driver’s seat is height adjustable. 02
What impressed CAR’s testers the 108 is 10 mm longer than the er, and elbowroom just about Easy-to-read speedo; rev-counter is missing,
though. 03 Voice control, USB and aux-in are

the most was the 108’s standard sharper-edged Toyota. According to suf cient when two burly blokes part of the package. 04 Novel boot cover and
safety equipment. The Peugeot our measurements, rear passengers occupy the front seats. tinted rear windows conceal valuables.



CARmag.co.za CAR FEBRUARY 2020 75

test



Gross frontal area: 2,12 m 2 Weight: 894 kg Drag coefficient: 0,29 Seating: 4/5
PEUGEOT 108
Although the 108 completed the Headroom/kneeroom:
0-100 km/h sprint at a leisurely 1,0 ACTIVE 754/604 mm
Headroom:
pace, in city driving the slick 821/874 mm
1 789 mm
ve-speeder’s short rst and sec-


152/568 L
ond ratios serve up enough pep, 1 460 mm
while the taller gears aid fuel con- 78 61% 39% 771 mm
sumption (although performance /100 120 mm
in the top three ratios was too 1 425 mm
3 475 mm
languid for it to accelerate from
120-140 km/h on our test strip). Built in Czechia Width (excl. mirrors): 1 615 mm Track front/rear: 1 425/1 420 mm Tow rating (unbraked): 0 kg
On our mixed-used fuel route, the
SPECIFICATIONS POWER & TORQUE ENGINE SPEED
Peugeot returned 4,80 L/100 km.
ENGINE
TEST SUMMARY Cylinders: three, inline, transverse 100 200 210 5th
4th
Fuel supply: multipoint electronic fuel 90 180 180 Max power
Available only in Active speci - 80 160 Max torque 3rd

injection, petrol 70 140 150
cation, the 108 doesn’t want for 60 120
Bore/stroke: 71,0/84,0 mm 50 100 120 2nd
much spec. Peugeot has thrown in Cubic capacity: 998 cm 3 40 Torque 80 90
30 Power 60 60 1st
a generous range of comfort and Compression ratio: 11,5 to 1 20 40
30
20
10
safety equipment, an absorbent Valvegear: d-o-h-c, four valves per kW N.m km/h
cylinder 1 2 3 4 5 6 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

suspension setup and suf cient
Revs per minute (x 1 000) Revs per minute (x 1 000)
punch for urban driving; all pack-
ENGINE OUTPUT
aged in a stylish design backed by Max power ISO: 53 kW Oil filter: R183,53 Air filter: R359,36 Left headlamp: R5 004,50
PARTS
Japanese drivetrain reliability and Power peak/Red line: 6,000/6 250 r/min PRICES* Left rear tyre: R780,00 Windscreen: R5 047,73 Brake pads (front
a best-in-class standard service Max torque: 93 N.m set): R1 448,00 Camchain (incl. tensioner): R5 811,00
Torque peak: 4 400 r/min Total parts basket: R18 634,12
plan of ve years/100 000 km. Two

members of the CAR team were so TRANSMISSION TEST RESULTS
impressed with the Peugeot, they Type: five-speed manual
scored it 80 and 81 respectively. 1st gear/2nd gear: 3,55/1,91 to 1 Test conditions**: Ambient temp/barometric press: 25 °C/1 014 hPa Test car’s odometer: 867 km
For reference, the accomplished 3rd gear/4th gear: 1,31/1,03 to 1
Top gear: 0,85 to 1 TOP SPEED BRAKING TEST
Suzuki Swift 1,2 GL MT netted a
Reverse gear: 3,21 to 1 Manufacturer’s figure: 160 km/h Best/worst stop: 3,06/3,35
rating of 80/100 when we tested it Final drive: 3,55 to 1 Average of 10 stops/rating: 3,18/good
in the September 2018 issue. Drive wheels: front SPEEDO CALIBRATION (true speed) Average stopping distance: 42,88 m
We remain curious as to how the Driver aids: ESC (electronic 10 stops from 100 km/h measured in seconds.
stability control), hill-start assist 60 80 100 120
108 will fare in our market where 56 76 95 114 FUEL CONSUMPTION
brand cachet plays a large role.
BRAKES Odometer error: 0,60% under Fuel tank: 35 L
That said, since its introduction on Front: 247 mm ventilated discs Est. tank range (fuel index): 678 km
local soil, the fun-to-drive 108 has Rear: drums ACCELERATION (sec) Taxable CO rating: 99 g/km
2
made choosing a boutique hatch Hydraulics: ABS with EBD and EBA
0-60 0-80 0-100 0-120 0-140 Manufacturer’s figure
an increasingly dif cult task. It’s

WHEELS AND TYRES 6,35 10,48 16,41 25,60 52,59 4,30
a worthy addition to this segment Tyre make: Continental L/100 km
and deserves to feature on many a EcoContact5
shortlist. Tyre size (f;r): 165/65 R14 OVERTAKING ACCELERATION (sec) CAR fuel index
Spare – type and location: full-size steel, 3rd 4th Top 5,16
under boot board L/100 km
40-60 5,72 7,53 10,35
60-80 6,05 8,69 11,81
STEERING 80-100 6,91 10,41 16,60 Fuel route
Type: rack and pinion, 100-120 9,28 14,63 27,70 4,80
electric power assist 120-140 - - - L/100 km
Lock to lock: 2,8 turns

01 Turning circle diameter: 9,8 m Power/mass: 59 W/kg Power/litre: 53 kW/litre
Torque/litre: 93 N.m/litre Cabin noise level at idle: 43 dBA PERFORMANCE
SUSPENSION FACTORS
Front: independent, MacPherson struts, Engine speed (at true 120 km/h in top gear): 3 471 r/min
coil springs, anti-roll bar
Rear: torsion beam, coil springs Airbags: front/side/curtain Air-con: manual Audio system: radio/
FEATURES aux-in/USB/Bluetooth/smartphone mirroring Cruise control: no
CHECKLIST
WARRANTY & SERVICE INTERVALS Sat-nav: no Park assist: no Windows: electric front Trip computer:
5-year/100 000 km warranty standard Driver seat adjust: manual, incl. height Folding rear seat:
02 5-year/100 000 km service plan 50:50 split Upholstery: cloth Isofix anchorages: outer rear Steering adjust: rake
Service every 15 000 km Steering audio controls: standard Tyre sensors: no Wipers auto-on: no Headlamps
auto-on: no Head-up display: no
01 Side mirrors but one of the customisa-
ble items. 02 Familiar lion-claw rear lights
look stylish. *Prices as recommended by manufacturer **All tests conducted at sea level




76 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za

+ FREE DIGITAL
SUBSCRIPTION

subscribe now & DELIvERy










6 issues for only r167 | 12 issues for only r283






















SAve


uPTo

45%









































SIMply CONTACT uS AND quOTE: 20/03/GEN/pM


or more exclusive offers visit www.magsathome.co.za






How to online email call
Tel: 087 405 2005
subscribe www.popularmechanics. [email protected] Fax: 0866 704 101
co.za/subscribe




TERMS AND CONDITIONS: This offer is valid until 30 March 2020 and applies to print subscribers with a South African
address only. By providing your personal details, you are giving Popular Mechanics permission to communicate with you via
email or SMS. For foreign rates and other great offers, visit www.magsathome.co.za

Audi TT Coupé 45 TFSI S tronic





It might be the entry-level model in the refreshed Audi TT range

but it stakes a claim as the pick of the bunch



Price: R670 000 0-100 km/h: 6,33 seconds Power: 169 kW Torque: 370 N.m Top speed: 250 km/h CAR fuel index: 7,56 L/100 km CO : 146 g/km
2

























































Light, nimble, Considering the The TT offers a Feels like a unique
sporty and stylish; quality and rare blend of light- offering at a com-
rather dif cult performance on weight simplicity petitive price

to fault offer, a compara- and effortless Nikesh Kooverjee
Wilhelm Lutjeharms tive bargain sophistication
Terence Steenkamp Ian McLaren


hen the rst-gener- nature contributed to its nimble front splitter, framed vertical air develops 169 kW and 370 N.m
ation Audi TT was road manners. inlets in the front bumper and a (20 N.m more than in the GTI). The
W released in 1998, it Now that the altogether more wider diffuser at the rear. The level only other variant in the current
took the sportscar world by storm. sophisticated third-generation of standard equipment on the local range is the TTS Coupé,
This wasn’t necessarily thanks TT has been facelifted, on rst base model includes Audi’s Drive offering 228 kW/380 N.m from
to strong performance (the V6 appearance it seems this winning Select drivetrain management, a the same base engine. Sadly, no
came later) but rather its striking recipe continues. smartphone interface, PDC and Roadsters are on sale here, Audi
design. The rounded shape and The most notable updates to the electrically adjusted front seats. citing eeting demand.
sharp panel and headlight angles exterior include a new grille yet it’s Our test model is the entry- This unit is tted with R91 000


on those at surfaces were dis- with the optional S line package level 45 TFSI tted with the engine worth of options.The three most
tinctive, while the compact that the TT looks more purposeful. from the Volkswagen Golf GTI; expensive are that aforementioned
dimensions and lightweight The latter includes a full-length the 2,0-litre, turbocharged engine S line exterior package (R24 896),




78 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za

test



MATCH-UP

1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3









Audi TT 45 TFSI BMW M240i Coupé Mercedes-Benz C200
S tronic Steptronic Coupé 9G-tronic Plus
At this price, offering Offering much stronger Arguably the most stylish
a near-perfect blend of punch from its six-cylinder of this trio and delivers the
design, performance and engine, the M240i is a real most relaxing, open-road
usability, the facelifted TT driver’s car that offers an cruising capability. Less
is a winner. “A Golf GTI in experience for the true performance for your buck, 01
a ball gown,” as one tester enthusiast … at nearly however, as well as stand-
described it. R80 000 more, though. ard spec than the TT.

price: R670 000 price: R747 940 price: R703 528
cyl/capac: 4/1 984 cm 3 cyl/capac: 6/2 979 cm 3 cyl/capac: 4/1 991 cm 3

power: 169 kW/4 500-6 200 r/min power: 250 kW/5 500 r/min power: 150 kW/5 800-6 100 r/min
torque: 370 N.m/1 600-4 300 r/min torque: 500 N.m/1 520-4 500 r/min torque: 300 N.m/3 000-4 000 r/min
gears/drive: 6/F gears/drive: 8/R gears/drive: 9/R

0-100 km/h: 6,33 sec 0-100 km/h: 4,57 sec 0-100 km/h: 7,20 sec est
top speed: 250 km/h top speed: 250 km/h top speed: 245 km/h

fuel index: 7,56 L/100 km fuel index: 8,50 L/100 km fuel index: 8,16 L/100 km
luggage capac: 184/512 L luggage capac: 280/776 L luggage capac: 280/640 L
02
serv/maint plan: M5/100 000 km serv/maint plan: M5/100 000 km serv/maint plan: M5/100 000 km

USED OPTION (<2yrs) park assist (R16 423) and Audi’s
matrix LED headlamps (R14 234). A
Porsche 718 Cayman PDK You’ll have to search far and wide but one of the best sportscars in tyre-pressure monitoring system
the market is available around the R700 000 mark.
is useful at only R1 332 (although
it should really be standard) while
01 At speed the rear wing rises, giving the TT’s rump an even sportier look. 02 Rear seats of- the Bang & Olufsen sound system
fer limited space but can fold down. 03 Virtual Cockpit is standard and controls most vehicle 03
functions. 04 The TT’s cabin is a prime example of functional, beautiful design. will appeal to audiophiles at
R9 876. The Turbo Blue exterior col-
04 our elicited varied responses from

our team but the hue does make
the car more noticeable. However,
we believe a more conservative
shade better suits the classy de-
sign of this entry-level TT.
Once you’re settled behind
the wheel, you’ll appreciate the
clean, modern and carefully
considered interior layout. Since

the rst generation, it has always
been a standout feature and this
continues in the facelifted model.
As one tester remarked: “The
cabin is a masterclass in layout


and nishes. Nothing ashy; just
very well done.” The attention to
detail – from the small screens
and knobs inside the air vents to
the Virtual Cockpit – adds to its
sophisticated ambience.
The TT is built on the widely
applied MQB platform. Although
the TT (TTS and RS excluded) has



CARmag.co.za CAR FEBRUARY 2020 79

test


Gross frontal area: 2,27 m 2 Weight: 1 323 kg Drag coefficient: 0,30 Seating: 4
AUDI TT COUPÉ
45 TFSI S TRONIC Headroom/kneeroom:
Headroom: 689/512 mm
764/822 mm
184/512 L
1 798 mm
1 380 mm
81
01 61% 39% 818 mm
/100 n/a
02 2 510 mm
4 190 mm

Built in Hungary Width (excl. mirrors): 1 830 mm Track front/rear: 1 570/1 550 mm Tow rating (unbraked): 0 kg

SPECIFICATIONS POWER & TORQUE ENGINE SPEED

ENGINE
Cylinders: four, inline, transverse 200 450 280 5th
180 405 Max torque x
Fuel supply: electronic direct fuel 160 Torque 360 240 powe
01 The engine is almost identical to the injection, turbocharged, intercooled, petrol 140 315 200 4th
unit in the Volkswagen Golf GTI. 02 The Bore/stroke: 82,5/92,8 mm 120 Power 270 160
boot is quite usable for an everyday sports- Cubic capacity: 1 984 cm 3 100 225 120 3rd
180
80
car but the loading lip is high. 60 135 2nd
Compression ratio: 9,6 to 1 80
40 90 1st
Valvegear: d-o-h-c, four valves per 20 45 40
cylinder kW N.m km/h
never been viewed as a serious 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Revs per minute (x 1 000) Revs per minute (x 1 000)
sportscar, it is the honesty and
ENGINE OUTPUT
unpretentious performance of the Max power ISO: 169 kW Oil filter: R274,85 Air filter: R513,48 Left headlamp: R68 477,39
car that makes it so appealing. Power peak/Red line: PRICES* Left rear tyre: R3 614,00 Windscreen: R9 073,50 Brake pads (front
PARTS
The sparkly engine has to 4 500-6 200/6 000 r/min set): R2 564,50 Camchain (incl. tensioner): R1 952,56
Max torque: 370 N.m Total parts basket: R86 470,28
manage an impressively low
Torque peak: 1 600-4 300 r/min
overall mass of just 1 323 kg (fully
TEST RESULTS
fuelled) and you seldom yearn for TRANSMISSION
more performance. We achieved a Type: six-speed dual-clutch Test conditions**: Ambient temp/barometric press: 27 °C/1 015 hPa Test car’s odometer: 3 663 km
0-100 km/h time of 6,33 seconds, 1st gear/2nd gear: 2,92/1,79 to 1
3rd gear/4th gear: 1,19/0,83 to 1 TOP SPEED BRAKING TEST
although Audi claims a sub-six-
5th gear/Top gear: 0,86/0,69 to 1 Manufacturer’s figure: 250 km/h Best/worst stop: 2,72/2,96
second time. Reverse gear: 3,26 to 1 Average of 10 stops/rating: 2,84/excellent
Front-wheel driven, the engine Final drive (1/2): 4,77/3,44 to 1 SPEEDO CALIBRATION (true speed) Average stopping distance: 39,11 m
rarely overpowers the front tyres Drive wheels: front 60 80 100 120 10 stops from 100 km/h measured in seconds.
and it is only during slow, tight Driver aids: ESC (electronic stability 58 78 97 117
control), hill start FUEL CONSUMPTION
turns when you apply too much
Odometer error: 0,73% under Fuel tank: 50,0 L
throttle that you’re reminded of BRAKES Est. tank range (fuel index): 661 km
its FWD layout. There might be lit- Front: 312 mm ventilated discs ACCELERATION (sec) Taxable CO rating: 146 g/km
2
tle here for the enthusiastic driver Rear: 300 mm solid discs Manufacturer’s figure
but, as a classy daily runner, the Hydraulics: ABS with EBD and EBA 0-60 0-80 0-100 0-120 0-140 6,30
6,33
3,50
4,77
8,25
10,73
balance is perfect. L/100 km
WHEELS AND TYRES
Tyre make: Bridgestone Potenza S001
TEST SUMMARY Tyre size (f;r): 245/35 R19 OVERTAKING ACCELERATION (sec) CAR fuel index
Thanks to the fun attitude of the Spare – type and location: space-saver, AT 7,56
L/100 km
under boot board 40-60 1,34
TT – both in terms of design and
60-80 1,28
from behind the steering wheel 80-100 1,80 Fuel route
STEERING
– we found it dif cult to fault. Type: rack and pinion, 100-120 2,05 7,20

120-140
2,79
L/100 km
Add the high level of standard electro-hydraulic power assist
equipment to this impressive mix Lock to lock: 2,0 turns
Turning circle diameter: 11,0 m Power/mass: 128 W/kg Power/litre: 85 kW/litre
and R670 000 starts to sound re- PERFORMANCE
Torque/litre: 186 N.m/litre Cabin noise level at idle: 44 dBA
ally attractive. Hardcore sportscar SUSPENSION Engine speed (at true 120 km/h in top gear): 2 368 r/min FACTORS
enthusiasts might need to fork Front: independent, MacPherson
out more for the TTS or a compet- struts, coil springs, anti-roll bar Airbags: front/side/curtain Air-con: climate Audio system: radio/aux-
itor’s car, but for everyday driving, Rear: independent, multilink, FEATURES in/USB/Bluetooth/voice control/smartphone mirroring Cruise control:
coil springs, anti-roll bar
modest practicality, frugal con- CHECKLIST standard Sat-nav: standard Park assist: standard Windows: electric
sumption and the perfect blend Trip computer: standard Driver seat adjust: electric, incl. height
WARRANTY & SERVICE INTERVALS Folding rear seat: 50:50 split Upholstery: leather Isofix anchorages: outer rear Steering
of comfort and dynamism in a 1-year/unlimited km warranty adjust: rake + reach Steering audio controls: standard Tyre sensors: optional Wipers
performance car, the TT remains 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan auto-on: standard Headlamps auto-on: standard Head-up display: optional
up there with the best. Services according to onboard computer
*Prices as recommended by manufacturer **All tests conducted at sea level




80 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za

COM









CAPE TOWN FOR CAPETONIANS
















Cape Town’s favourite site for the real scoop


on what’s happening in the Mother City































NEWS.


WEATHER.


FOOD & WINE.



TRAVEL. ADVENTURE.


ENTERTAINMENT.


WHAT’S ON.




















SCAN
HERE
capetownetc.com [email protected]

long-term







































































TOYOTA RAV4 2,5 AWD VX
Almost a Prado






The latest RAV4 differs completely to its roots … not that it’s a bad thing


By: Peter Palm PeterPalm12



3 months 4 041 km 9,64 L/100 km



+ generous space; interior quality; torquey engine firmer ride than some; tricky to keep clean



he Toyota RAV4 has come a additional generations later, the line to the RAV4 in terms of safety and driving pleasure when
long way since CAR tested size has inevitably increased to a quality is obvious. That said, the negotiating traffic and on a long
Tthe first iteration in 1995, spacious five-seater family SUV SUV adds many more impressive trip to Struisbaai and back at a
a compact three-door sporting a with luggage dimensions of 408/ features such as adaptive cruise sightseeing pace below the speed
2,0-litre engine. That model, too, 1 352 litres as opposed to the first control and auto braking to a limit. This delivered the best con-
had permanent four-wheel drive generation’s 144/720 litres. crawl before requiring the driver sumption figure of 7,53 L/100 km.
for a modicum of off-roading abili- My previous long-termer was to take control. This proved its Around town, that figure leapt to
ty. After nearly 25 years and three a Corolla Hatch and the through- worth in terms of enhanced more than 10,0 L/100 km.




82 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za

test




I managed the trip to the ‘Baai
COSTS
and back with 45 km to spare,
Fuel & top-up cost waited till the low fuel lamp lit up
R4 931 and replenished the tank with 48
Cost per kilometre
R1,22 litres, which indicates a generous
reserve was on tap before tank
R577 900 depletion of the full 55 litres. My
01
Purchase price then usual fill-up capacity was 42 litres.
Believe it or not, my preferred
R604 100
Purchase price now drive mode was the snow setting.
This is not as intrusive as it
±R550 000
sounds, merely dropping the
Second-hand value
revs a touch to smoothen initial
LOG BOOK pull-away. This was an attempt
to counter the electronic brain’s
Fuel used unleaded obsession with engaging first gear
02 03 Top-up oil used nil when second would be ideal. I
Tread remaining (front/rear) 95/98 %
seldom used sport mode as there
is more than enough torque to
Best consumption
rapidly respond to all situations.
As I mentioned, the boot is
suitably large to accommodate
7,53 L/100 km luggage for four while the rear
seats fold flat to swallow large
Worst consumption
items such as a mountain bike
without needing to remove the
front wheel (not a given with
10,58 L/100 km all midsize SUVs). An electrical-
ly operated tailgate is usually
Average consumption
not to my taste but the RAV4’s
quick-acting item proved handy
on numerous occasions when my
9,64 L/100 km hands were full of shopping bags.

The same goes for the two-finger
PARTS PRICES
04 touch of the door handle to lock
Oil filter: R198,35 or unlock without using the key.
01 A bicycle in a box was swallowed easily. 02 The RAV4 has a mix of analogue and digital Air filter: R538,21 ECU: R9 630,94
instrumentation that works very well. 03 The top-of-the-range VX model sports all-wheel Brake pads (front): R1 468,68 The customisable screens, dials
drive, as does the chunky GX-R. 04 High-quality cabin is a pleasure to use. 05 Lots of and the volume knob close to the
cladding complements the looks but does trap a lot of dirt. Left headlamp: R9 099,12
Windscreen: R9 082,01 driver all added to the conveni-
05 Rear tyre: R2 806,00 ence of using the Toyota daily.
I also think the RAV4 looks
terrific … when it’s clean. This
colour scheme is a winning com-
bination: a lustrous deep metallic
blue paired with tan upholstery.
I did notice – as many buying the
all-wheel-drive version will – after
gravel road trips that washing the
car proved time-consuming as the
plastic trim on the front, back and
sides traps dirt in the crevasses.
Initially missing my Corolla
long-termer, the RAV4 soon
proved its worth with its extra
grip, greater ground clearance and
its much larger luggage capacity.
Unlike that first-generation tyke,
the contemporary RAV4 is a true
family wagon.



CARmag.co.za CAR FEBRUARY 2020 83

long-term





































































Cross-genre appeal
OPEL CROSSLAND X 1,6TD ENJOY






Funky styling, practical packaging and a frugal powerplant make the
Crossland X 1,6TD a well-rounded runabout


By: Gareth Dean GarethD_CARmag



3 months 3 341 km 5,51 L/100 km



+ funky styling; feels solid; frugal engine overly tall gearing



o be perfectly honest, I of the Crossland X in CAR’s pool of styling, with its dogleg C-pillar It’s a tough act for the cabin to
never quite got a handle on long-termers, I decided to nudge treatment, contrasting roof and follow, dark and functionally laid
T just what makes crossovers aside these jaded preconceptions proportions that just manage to out as it is, but there’s no denying
so appealing. You don’t have the and acquaint myself with what all tread the right side of the SUV the perceived quality here. Plenty
off-road ability of the SUV it’s trying the cool kids are buying. line, has managed to garner a of slush-moulded plastics, elbow
to emulate, nor does it particularly To be fair, this particular exam- noticeable degree of approval. It cushions on the door panels and a
distance itself from its humdrum ple of a crossover is actually quite, is – and I can’t believe I’m saying lack of squeaks, buzzes and rattles
donor vehicle. But with the arrival erm, cool to look at. The Crossland’s this – pretty funky. attest to an interior that’s about as




84 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za

test





COSTS

Fuel & top-up cost
R3 064,66
Cost per kilometre
R0,92
02

R349 000
Price then
R349 000
Price now

±R325 000
Second-hand value

LOG BOOK
01 03
Fuel used 50 ppm diesel
Top-up oil used nil
Tread remaining (front/rear) 85/87% well constructed as you could wish a rearview camera, an Android a bit more gearstick stirring in
for in a small crossover. Auto/Apple CarPlay-enabled info- traf c. It’s a pity because, despite

It’s also a surprisingly practical tainment system, auto lights and its high centre of gravity – and
Best consumption
thing. Fold away the 60:40-split wipers and lane-keeping assist the pleasingly elevated driving
rear seats and it frees up a useful are included. position that comes with it – the
1 048 litres of load space that’s not The latest addition to the X’s weighty steering and supple
5,42 L/100 km affected by wheelarch intrusion. It then-solely petrol-engined X line- chassis make it pleasant to pilot.
makes short work of carting furni- up, this model adopts the same To the powertrain’s credit, it
Worst consumption
ture and other bits and pieces that PSA-sourced 1,6-litre turbodiesel proved frugal, returning a respect-
would never slot into your average that did service in our outgoing able average 5,51 L/100 km. It’s
hatchback. Another neat little Opel Combo panel van. Much as it close to the 5,30 L/100 km claimed
6,80 L/100 km trick is the modular boot- oor did in the Combo, this unit punch- by CAR’s fuel index, equating to a

panel. It can act as a lid to a 96-li- es above its weight with a hearty range of around 800 km.
Average consumption
tre recess where valuables can be 230 N.m of torque to back up that
hidden, or removed altogether, otherwise modest 68 kW on offer. TEST SUMMARY
bumping the luggage space up The execution, however, is not I may still not entirely grasp
5,51 L/100 km from 288 to 384 litres. quite as polished. Where this unit why people go after a crossover

PARTS PRICES The time-old six-footer-behind- was linked to a snappy gearbox in rather than a standard hatchback
six-footer seating test revealed the Combo, in the X it’s coupled but the X brought me very close

Oil filter: R158,90 plenty of legroom, while the gen- with an oddly baggy-feeling shift- to understanding why. There’s

Air filter: R299,69 ECU: R31 295,02 erous door apertures decant kids er. This isn’t a deal-breaker but enough here to separate it from
Brake pads (front): R1 496,42
Left headlamp: R5 063,21 and their chattels into the back when it’s linked to a ‘box with sur- more conventional crossover fare,
Windscreen: R6 215,59 seats far less strenuous. prisingly tall gearing, it becomes a which essentially involves gluing
Rear tyre: R1 450,00 In addition to those natty-look- bit of a mixed bag. black cladding to the lower body

ing alloy wheels, the X’s Enjoy spec- While this gives the X a long-leg- and bumping up the suspension.

i cation adds a generous amount ged demeanour at higher speeds, The Crossland X is also practically
of standard kit. Features such as it does so at the cost of some low- packaged and, in this diesel’s case,

all-round parking sensors with speed exibility and necessitates light at the pumps.

















05

01 High roofline and generous glazing help
the X feel spacious inside. 02 Trip computer
between the analogue dials. 03 Touchscreen
infotainment system has smartphone mirror-
ing. 04 Styling is eye-catching. 05 Generous
04
boot features a two-tier load floor.


CARmag.co.za CAR FEBRUARY 2020 85

Do you own one of these cars? If so, we’d like to know what you think. Email us at [email protected]


long-term




































FORD RANGER DC MAZDA3
2,0 SiT XLT 4x4 10AT 03 2,0 ASTINA AT 04
/06
/06
Driver: Ian McLaren IanM_CARmag Driver: Ryan Bubear Ryan_Bubear


6 155 km 10,54 L/100 km 4 276 km 7,79 L/100 km


+ smoother transmission post-software update + classy exterior styling
consumption’s taken a knock narrow rear portals


A recent trip by features writer 10,0 L/100 km to the new figure Like any motoring enthusiast worth weekend rolls around, I fight off
Wilhelm Lutjeharms to visit the listed above. I shouldn’t have their salt, I’d take a well-sorted thoughts that some sort of cross-
Bloodhound land-speed record much trouble returning this closer hatchback over a bloated, high-rid- over might be better suited to the
project during the crew’s test run to 9,0 L/100 km. ing crossover pretty much every day task of transporting my family from
programme at Hakskeen Pan (see I recently put the XLT’s stand- of the week. The Mazda3 has thus A to B. That sloping roofline and
page 58) brought my Ranger’s ard tow hitch to use as I needed to proven an ideal vehicle for my daily chunky C-pillar conspire to create
mileage to within touching dis- clear a storage unit. Although this commute, lapping up heavy traffic deceptively constricted rear door
tance of its first scheduled service. exercise didn’t test the Ranger’s and flowing from corner to corner openings. Squeezing my five-year-
Happy to be reacquainted with 3 500 kg (braked) towing capacity, once the congestion finally clears old daughter’s child seat onto the
the friendly and efficient team at I was grateful for the vehicle’s and the tarmac turns twisty. bench feels like a game of Tetris.
Halfway Ford in Goodwood, Cape large side mirrors and planted With its low-slung seating While it’s simple to secure the
Town, I delivered my 2,0 SiT to ride quality. I appreciate the in- position and pointy front-end, the child seat thanks to the accessible
the workshop a day ahead of its clusion of tie-down points in the Japanese firm’s midsize hatchback Isofix anchors, I frequently whack
15 000 km service to avoid a rush generous load bay, as well as the is the antithesis of the typical the back of my head while folding
the following morning. EZ lift system that makes closing roly-poly crossover, even if its natu- my six-foot frame in half to strap
Upon collection of my valeted the tailgate a breeze. A rubberised rally aspirated 2,0-litre engine isn’t in my little girl. My wife, too, has
Ranger, I was informed the soft- coating (costing R5 000 from a quite punchy enough to allow the knocked her noggin once or twice
ware associated with the vehicle’s dealership) would go some way full exploitation of a chassis boast- while simply alighting from the
10-speed automatic transmis- towards avoiding scratches. ing an obvious depth of engineer- passenger seat. It seems there’s a
sion had been updated. In the It was interesting to recently ing. In short, it’s relaxing to pilot on price to pay for that unusually low
days that followed, I noted much revisit the VW Amarok package af- bustling highways and downright roofline and sleek styling.
smoother reaction times and a ter having lived with a Ranger for fun to hustle down your favourite But when Monday arrives, all
more settled cruising manner three months. The former remains stretch of deserted asphalt. is forgiven. The Mazda3 feels as
from this drivetrain. the benchmark for comfort and And, from where I’m standing, though it’s been designed around
Wilhelm clearly acquired a compliance; however, the more it looks fantastic, too. This Soul its driver, proving ergonomically
taste for speed-record attempts generous interior dimensions of Red Crystal example has slotted spot-on for the fortunate person
and my average consumption the Ford mean it’s better suited to seamlessly into my life … from at the wheel. I’d happily sacrifice a
suffered, climbing from below ferrying a small family. Monday to Friday, that is. Once the dash of practicality for that.








86 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za

test










































HONDA CIVIC RENAULT DUSTER 1,5 dCi
1,5T SPORT CVT 02 TECHROAD 4x2 EDC 05
/06
/03
Driver: Wilhelm Lutjeharms WilhelmL_CARmag Driver: Terence Steenkamp Terence_CARmag


1 503 km 6,75 L/100 km 4 401 km 6,01 L/100 km


+ low consumption + utility space; punchy engine…
approving infotainment system after every start …that likes to drink somewhat more than expected


A colleague recently borrowed the switch on the car. It is annoying and What with travelling for launches cise than with the other crossovers
Civic for an evening and, upon his I wish there was a way to termi- and being kept occupied by home I’ve mentioned. Worth keeping in
return, summed up the experience nate this setting. However, these renovations (don’t do it, tempting as mind if you have to regularly load
by saying: “It looks expensive, it is warnings are usually a result of it may be!), I didn’t spend as much and unload a pram, for example.
not flashy but tasteful and sensi- legislation in countries where its time in the Duster this month as I If you’ve noticed the Duster’s
ble.” I fully agree. products are sold rather than the would have liked. However, when average consumption steadily
Looking at its road test in Octo- fault of the manufacturer. I did jump behind the wheel, it climbing month by month, keep
ber 2016, we achieved an accelera- My experience of fixing and was often to the hardware store or in mind its first driver, Ian, has a
tion time of 0-100 km/h in only removing my son’s child seat nursery and that showed another predominantly highway-based
7,93 seconds. That is rather has been somewhat different to side to the Duster’s character. Drop commute where cars generally use
impressive. I rarely need to put Ryan’s to the left. The Honda feels the rear backrest and you free up less fuel, where mine includes a lot
my foot down to experience all spacious and I have a suspicion 1 242 litres of utility space. Not more urban traffic crawling. Still, an
the performance on offer but it’s a midsize crossover might have the Ford EcoSport, VW T-Cross nor average figure starting with a six is
welcoming to know it is available made my life somewhat harder. Haval H2 come close to mirroring higher than I would have expected
should I need it. The 60:40-split rear seats came the practicality on offer here (or my from a diesel-driven small crossover.
On the other hand – and it is in very handy when I recently team mates’ Mazda3 and Honda The Duster has a long trip on the
something small – as I’ve mentioned purchased an umbrella for the Civic, for that matter). horizon, which should include
before with some of the previous veranda. At well over two metres, it Having such a large loading bay enough steady-state cruising to dip
Hondas we’ve had on our fleet, fitted perfectly between the seats. means being able to pack curtain the consumption back into the fives.
you have to touch the screen to ac- Who said you need a bakkie? rods, a freestanding braai, big Ian mentioned it before but
knowledge “the driver is responsible I’m looking forward to several plants and hefty bags of potting one of my favourite things about
for the safe operation of this vehicle. holiday trips with the Honda before soil. That all in a fairly diminutive the Duster is its steering wheel. A
Use this system only when traffic the manufacturer arrives to pry the frame of 4,3 metres, remember. crucial point of contact so often ne-
conditions permit” every time you key from my hand. My only criticism is this lat- glected at the lower end of the mar-
est-generation Duster has a 45 mm ket, the Renault’s tiller is trimmed
We achieved a 0-100 km/h time higher load lip than the previous in tactile leather and its rim is just

of only 7,93 seconds model and lifting heavy items into the right diameter. It really enhanc-
the boot is a more strenuous exer-
es the driving experience.






CARmag.co.za CAR FEBRUARY 2020 87

fe ture





bike collection






















































































































88 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za

The




Motorcycle





Room











On Thesen Island in Knysna, what was

once a hobby has grown into one of the best
motorcycle collections in SA



By: Wilhelm Lutjeharms WilhelmL_CARmag
Photos: Peet Mocke Petridish_Mooks






















01 02
01 The logo, representing Colin’s two loves: V-twin engines and a big sprocket from off-
road racing. 02 A Honda SS50 with its 49 cc engine.



he moment I walk off-road bike and started racing.
through the doors, “I shattered my elbow in 11
my eyes widen as places and shortly after the birth
the full collection of my daughter, I quit racing.
stretches out in Although, I’ve never stopped
T front of me. There riding off-road and I almost want
are superbikes, off-road and to say there is probably not a
enduro bikes, and even some gravel road in South Africa that I
classics. But this collection didn’t haven’t ridden.”
just happen overnight. In 2005, along with a group of
Owner Colin Stunden explains: friends, Colin tackled his most
“I started riding my dad’s Honda daunting trip yet: Cairo to Cape
XR200 when I was eight years Town on his KTM 640. The first
old. It was too big for me so I seed was laid for The Motorcycle
used to put Coke crates on either Room when he returned, “Brows-
side to climb on and start it. ing on Gumtree, I spotted a 50 cc,
“I grew up around bikes, as my similar to the one I had in school.
dad rode enduro and motocross. I bought it for R600, fixed it up
During my school years, I rode and then bought another one. I
several 50 cc bikes and following started collecting these small-
army training, I bought my first capacity bikes and things got out











CARmag.co.za CAR FEBRUARY 2020 89

feature














































01






“I don’t take this bike-collecting


hobby too seriously”
















02 03 04


01 Quite a sight, with a handmade 1954 bikes to the facility and spread few of them. “I like to leave the he won the Roof of Africa race in
BSA Clubman racer on the left. 02 A them out across the oor. bikes in the condition I nd them; 2014. Of the 140 examples in the

sought-after two-stroke 1983 Yamaha RD
500. 03 Built by Gavin Venter, a custom “Since we’ve put the signs up, they’re real-world bikes. If they collection, around 40 are fellow
Suzuki GN250 “Copper” which is used people come through the doors aren’t running, we will get them enthusiasts’ bikes which Colin is
regularly. 04 Bespoke (and 40 kg lighter!) and they always enjoy the collec- going. To me, a restored bike just happy to exhibit on their behalf.
BMW GS 1150 Adventure.
tion. The real enjoyment is the loses its soul and personality.” “We’ll look for more interest-
nostalgia behind it.” Fortunately, most of these ing motorcycles to add to the
of control from there … I would As expected, Colin is often bikes are ridden, and Colin collection but, for now, we are

buy whatever I could afford at approached to buy more collecta- makes a point of telling visitors almost lled to capacity.
the time. ble bikes. “Some of the bikes I’ve that, if a bike is dirty, it’s because “It is so rewarding when vis-
“People would say I was mad been offered I couldn’t say no to it hasn’t yet been cleaned follow- itors leave and say, ‘Thank you,
to get all these beat-up bikes but and on occasion, I didn’t have ing a ride. my bike has been laying in my
eventually today’s junk becomes the money to buy them. Slowly “I don’t take this bike-col- garage for 30 years; I’m going to
tomorrow’s treasure. My garage but surely the quality of the lecting hobby too seriously; we get it up and running.’ I think it’s
was packed and when people bikes I’ve bought has improved.” sometimes build a custom bike why a lot of people can relate to
heard I have bikes, they would As we make our way through from parts laying around in this place.”
nag to come and see them.” the collection, I’m intrigued by the workshop.” Colin now plans to import
When this current building be- the authenticity of the bikes on There are several unique bikes some exotic collectables to add
came available, Colin realised the display. There’s a good reason for with chequered histories. One is to his impressive assemblage of
potential and took his then 60 the second-hand condition of a Wade Young’s steed with which two-wheel wonders.




90 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za

all meals, selected drinks included

talk











We look at the latest advancements
in technology and their application
on current and future vehicles


By: Marius Boonzaier
Marius_CARmag



































































Sporting a super-capacitor setup (instead of a conventional lithium-ion battery), SUPERCAR,

the Lamborghini Sián FKP 37 is a first-of-its-kind mild-hybrid supercar. However,
the Sant’Agata Bolognese automaker believes this technology has much more SUPER CAPACITOR
potential. In conjunction with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT),
the Raging Bull has now issued a second patent for an advanced material which
will underpin a new generation of super-capacitors. The goal: to improve energy density by 100% in relation to current tech. Synthesised by MIT’s faculty
of chemistry and Lamborghini’s department of concept development, the advanced composite is based on the “metal-organic frameworks” design, which

the Italian firm says makes it the ideal candidate for producing electrodes for high-performance super-capacitors of the future because it increases the
specific surface area. Compared with a battery of the same mass, the fast-charging super-capacitor arrangement weighs up to three times less and, more

importantly, is three times as powerful.








92 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za

tech






FUTURE-FOCUSED 14-YEAR OLD SEAMLESS CHARGING OF FIRST RANC

























Simple, yet effective; that’s how 14-year- Ford Motor Company is developing fresh In a bid to dramatically reduce in-car
old Pennsylvanian student Alaina Gassler’s technology to revolutionise traditional noise, Hyundai has announced the mass
prototype to prevent blind spots has been car-seat covers. By employing innovative production of what it claims is the world’s
described. Alaina’s design involves a camera 3D-knitting techniques, the US firm has first Road Noise Active Noise Control


mounted to the A-pillar projecting a live feed already manufactured seamless, removable (RANC) system. According to the Korean
onto the inside of the structural item and covers that will debut on the new Puma carmaker, the improvement of NVH levels
enables the driver to virtually see through the crossover. However, what makes this has become increasingly important as most
vehicle’s pillar. “Since we can’t remove [the high-precision method unique is it offers manufacturers are steadily switching to
A-pillar] from cars, I decided to get rid of it customers not only bespoke designs and EVs. The setup, developed with Harman,
without getting rid of it,” Alaina says. improved overall comfort, but incorporates comprises a sensor which relays the
First tested on her family’s Jeep Grand various textiles into the fabric, enabling monitored vibration from the road to a
Cherokee, the concept makes use of intuitive integration of functional items like control computer that instantly analyses
3D-printed parts to align the image with the wireless charging, smartphone connectivity, the noise and transmits it to a digital signal
car’s windscreen. Her project, titled “Improving health-monitoring sensors, seat heating and processor (DSP). This DSP produces inverted
Automobile Safety by Removing Blind Spots”, control over the windows and doors. soundwaves to cancel the noise permeating

was awarded first place at the Society for “3D knitting presents intriguing possibilities the interior.
Science and the Public’s Broadcom MASTERS that push the boundaries,” says Anais Castinel, According to Hyundai, RANC is capable of
(Math, Applied Science, Technology and interior designer at Ford’s European-based adjusting the noise levels at the front and

Engineering for Rising Stars) competition in arm. “It will make journeys more comfortable rear of the cabin respectively. The first
2019. Alaina now aims to improve and patent and convenient for the driver and passengers.” vehicle equipped with this technology will be
the design, approaching companies such an upcoming model from Hyundai’s luxury
as Tesla. division, Genesis.






1919 1924 1934 1948 1955 1960

BY THE 1

NUMBERS 2 3




A CENTURY OF CITROËN 1970 1985 1991 2003 2010


CITROËN IS BACK IN SA AND 2019
MARKED THE FIRM’S CENTENARY. WE
TAKE A LOOK AT A KEY MOMENT IN
EACH DECADE OF THE FIRM’S HISTORY




1919 The Type A is launched, the first car to don the Chevron emblem. 1924 Citroën crosses Africa on its Croisière Noire expedition, travelling from Algeria to Cape Town.
1934 Traction Avant unveiled, the first mass-produced front-wheel-drive car. 1948 2CV revealed. It’s capable of carrying four people and 50 kg of potatoes, and reaches 60 km/h.

1955 Citroën DS revealed at Paris Motor Show. Sporting hydropneumatic suspension, 80 000 units are sold by the end of the event. 1960 Rennes La Janais factory opens.
Producing 1 200 cars a day, it is the first Citroën plant to combine body and final assembly. 1970 Citroën GS launches. A slippery 0,31 C d makes it the most aerodynamic car of


the time. 1985 Citroën Visa GTi is introduced. The hot hatch has a top speed of 188 km/h. 1991 Citroën claims first place at the 13th Paris-Tripoli-Dakar rally. 2003 Sébastien

Loeb and Daniel Elena secure Citroën’s first WRC title. 2010 Following the launch of the DS line a year earlier, Citroën introduces the DS3. These days, DS is a stand-alone brand.




CARmag.co.za CAR FEBRUARY 2020 93

tech






























PEAK POWER
ACCELER ATION
459 hp/342 kW
0-62 mph (0-100 km/h)

in less than five seconds











HANDLING
Magneride suspension

INTERIOR
















BATTERY
PACK
















































94 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za

MUS TANG








REIMA GINED













We investigate the technology behind o mention the words SUV, electric and Mustang
in the same sentence was unthinkable just
the latest, all-electric member of a couple of years ago. According to Ford, the
timing is perfect for the launch of the Mach-E
the Mustang family and its potential and this points to the seismic shift in automotive


impact on the SUV market Ttechnology as fossil-fuel burners make way for
all-electric powertrains. Here we explore the technology that

forms the Mach-E after inspecting the vehicle in the flesh in Los
By: Nicol Louw Nicol_LouwSVI
Angeles recently and talking to its engineers.










EXTERIOR





EFFICIENCY

At least 235 mile
(about 378 km) targeted
EPA range







CAPACIT Y
98,8 kWh battery







POWERTR AIN
Permanent-magnet
dual-motor electric
all-wheel drive






DRIVETRAIN
















CARmag.co.za CAR FEBRUARY 2020 95

tech





1 Exterior all-electric Ford was not always a 3 Drivetrain
Mustang. That decision came late in the
programme and the designers had to
quickly adapt their initial concept.
The low drag-coefficient requirement

to help extend the driving range of an
EV led to the deletion of traditional door
handles. Instead, you gain access by
pressing a button on the B- or C-pillars
of the vehicle. The relevant door pops
open an inch to allow the person to grab
the door frame. If all else fails, there is
the option of an electronic keypad on
the B-pillar where a combination can be
entered to unlock the vehicle. The result

At the reveal of the Mach-E, I was more interested in the virtual is a drag coefficient of 0,30, which is low The basic layout of
Ford’s designers went to reality (VR) used in the design process. for anSUV. the battery pack and
extreme lengths to show how much Traditional clay models take a long electric motors follows the
traditional Mustang DNA has made time to create and shape, whereas Doors open by trend in the electric SUV
its way into the design of the Mach-E. VR, combined with computer-aided category with the option of an
This includes the long nose, sculpted models, can give designers a fast way pressing a button electric motor on each axle
bonnet, muscular haunches and those to evaluate the effect of adjustments. on the pillars and the battery pack housed in
iconic rear lights. This was needed because the the floor between. The Mach-E

is available with a 210 kW
motor on the rear axle for the
rear-wheel-drive derivative
and adds a 50 kW unit on the
all-wheel-drive version. The
sporty GT version gets two
210 kW electric motors and
Ford claims a 0-100 km/h time
in the four-second bracket. A
single-speed reduction gear is
used on each axle, plus open
differentials. Torque-vectoring
per wheel is achieved via the
braking system.
Ford was adamant to
achieve a “Mustang driving
feel” in the Mach-E and
employed its driving simulator,
used for racing, to fast track
2 Interior the dynamic calibration to
deliver driving enjoyment. A
Again, the interior is designed driver (connected to their profile) quick spin as a passenger in

withtraditional Mustang cuesin and proposes information on these the mid-spec model revealed
mind… exceptforone major element: tiles during a journey. For example, it is indeed racy, with a scalpel-
that(Tesla-inspired?) 15,5-inch if the driver calls their partner every sharp acceleration response.
touchscreen. Itfeaturesthe latest day when driving home, this option Three driver modes are
versionofSync software and the becomes available on one of the tiles. calibrated, from “whisper”
screen sizeenabledFord to minimise The interior space, especially at to “unbridled”, where a
menus. Mostoptions are immediately the rear, is class-leading for its size strong V8 soundtrack is
availableorjust one click away. and head clearance is assured by the piped through the speakers
Smartphonefunctionalityis stepped black roof which is nicely to enhance the experience.
combinedwith artificial intelligence hidden to preserve the coupé-like Regenerative braking can be
wherethe most frequently used styling. There is boot space front and set by the driver and allows
functionsare stored on six tiles. The rear: the front stowage area comes near-single-pedal driving in
vehiclelearnsthe behaviour ofthe with a drain plug so it can be rinsed. its strongest setting.






96 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za

E-SUV comparison

The sound



A Mustang is all about
sound and it’s dif cult

to reproduce the
emotional beat of a big-
displacement V8. Ford
has gone to great lengths
to create more than 30

sound pro les based
on inputs ranging from
Formula E and movies, to
iconic Mustang exhaust
notes. These pro les were

evaluated using virtual
reality and the result,

I can con rm, is more
big-bore V8 than Martian
spacecraft.




4 Battery pack



Looking at the accompanying infotainment, connectivity and, manufacturers. Ford has not
table below, it's clear the new Ford dare we say, the soundtrack. taken the decision to name its
will not have it all its own way. Is it possible that future contender a Mustang lightly. As a
The technology building blocks of all-electric vehicles will share round-table discussion revealed,
each vehicle listed are surprisingly powertrains, as is the case in Ford had to do it. To launch another,
similar. It appears the all-electric Formula E? We would not discount similar electric vehicle into a small
era has levelled the powertrain this; it would make it harder for market niche (but rapidly growing
playing field when compared to the buyers to choose the best product. one) would have severely limited

vast differences found in internal- The role of objective reporting on its impact. It may not be a drifting,
combustioned variants. the new wave of electric vehicles tyre-smoking two-door Mustang
Other aspects of vehicles will will become more difficult but CAR but the Mach-E makes a significant


become more important to garner is up to the challenge. ripple on the pond. A little birdie
Ford provides two the attention of the buying public. Credit to Tesla for leading the told us an all-electric F150 bakkie
lithium-battery size This includes price, styling, range, way of the electric revolution and is closer to production than we
options: a 75,7 kWh (288 charging ability, suspension setup, forcingthe hand of thetraditional think…
cells) and 98,8 kWh (376
cells). Both are of the pouch FORD FORD JAG UAR MERCEDES- AUDI TESLA
MUSTANG MUSTANG I-PACE BENZ EQC400 E-TRON 55 MODEL X
variety connected in both MACH-E MACH-E GT EV400 4MATIC QUATTRO LONG RANGE
series and parallel for a total Dual electric Dual electric Dual electric Dual electric Dual electric Dual electric
Engine
system voltage of 400 V. motors motors motors motors motors motors
Charging time is a function of Combined 248 kW 342 kW 294 kW 300 kW 300 kW 350 kW
Power
the charger with a maximum
Combined
fast (DC) charge capability of torque 565 N.m 830 N.m 696 N.m 760 N.m 664 N.m 750 N.m
150 kW. This can add 75 km of
Battery size 98,8 kWh 98,8 kWh 90 kWh 80 kWh 95 kWh 100 kWh
range in just 10 minutes.
Fastest
Ford is proud of the battery charging rate 150 kW 150 kW 104 kW 112 kW 155 kW 200 kW
pack’s thermal-management
Mass n/a n/a 2 133 kg 2 495 kg 2 490 kg 2 533 kg
calibration, which uses
Range 435 km (EPA) 378 km (EPA) 470 km (WLTP) 417 km (WLTP) 417 km (WLTP) 507 km (WLTP)
coolant to pre-condition it for
optimum performance in cold 0-100 km/h 5,5 sec est 4,5 sec est 4,8 sec 5,1 sec 5,7 sec 4,6 sec
and hot climates. Top speed 180 km/h 180 km/h 200 km/h 180 km/h 200 km/h 250 km/h





CARmag.co.za CAR FEBRUARY 2020 97

tech



Let our team of technical experts
answer your motoring queries. If we

can’t, we know someone who can

Email: [email protected] (add “Technical” to the subject line)
Mail: CAR, PO Box 180, Howard Place, 7450




SEATBELTS AND TURBOS bocharged engine and a larger, 2. Boost pressure of a turbo is gauge related part that could cause

1. Disconnecting seatbelt naturally aspirated engine pressure, meaning above atmos- this issue, including the electri-
reminders where all variables are xed pheric. The modern turbo controller cal system and carburettor, but

Many of us have partners who except the boost pressure which normally works to an absolute the problem persists. Any idea
don’t buckle their seatbelt increases incrementally. Howev- pressure threshold; for example, what they may have missed?
until we reach the end of the er, I need to clear up some con- two bar, so it would have to boost ELSIE DE JAGER
street. Instead of listening to fusion. If atmospheric pressure more in Gauteng than at the coast Via email
the loud buzzer reminding at sea level is one bar, is a turbo to get to the boost setpoint. The only
them to act more quickly, some pushing one bar of boost added limitation is turbo speed which may The idle condition is a tricky one
people choose to disconnect to the atmospheric pressure? be limited to, say, 200 000 r/min. as so little air and fuel is needed
the weight sensor to stop the BRIAN YOUNGBLOOD Therefore, it may not be able to to keep the engine running. Any
annoying sound. In the Renault Fish Hoek achieve the absolute boost setpoint slight problem will affect idling. As

Duster, there are two connec- at high altitudes. Power is a function the engine is running ne, it points
tors per seat.The driver’s seat 1. It depends on the safety calibra- of air ow so, in general, two times to a small problem with the air
is usually left untouched as tion of the vehicle but, usually, an the air equals two times the power and fuel reaching the engine. We
the steering wheel is too close airbag will not deploy if the seatbelt (as fuelling is adjusted accordingly). think your mechanic is on the right
for the pre-tensioned seatbelt is not worn. The reason is an airbag Obviously, this ignores limitations track but needs to consider doing
to prevent contact in a crash. activates with such force that, if such as knock in a petrol engine, etc. the following:
The thinking is the passenger the occupant’s body is not in the • Look for air leaks by following
side has more space and, thus, desired, restrained position, it can the path from the air cleaner and
the seatbelt is suf cient in case harm or even kill the person rather the carburettor through to the
the airbags don’t deploy as the than save their life. We maintain it’s MAZDA 323 IDLE PROBLEM engine intake. The slightest air
disconnected seat sensor may not worth the risk to disconnect the I need CAR’s help and wisdom leak will cause trouble, especially
disable the airbag deployment. seat’s mass-detection sensor for two regarding my 1990’s Mazda 323. between the carburettor and
2. Boost pressure reasons: the airbag may not deploy Last Friday, the vehicle cut out intake manifold.
I'm trying to work out a rough during a crash; or the occupant fails when I stopped at a traf c light. • There should be an idle path
guide for equivalent engine to buckle up as the “annoyance fac- It now won’t idle at all. My me- in the carburettor for air and
sizes between a smaller, tur- tor” of the seatbelt warning is gone. chanic checked every possible fuel; sometimes a separate idle





Splines to CLUTCH PLATE
transmission Friction material

shaft The clutch plate of a vehicle fitted with a manual
TECH transmission sits between the flywheel of the engine

101

and the transmission. The flywheel, connected to the
engine’s crankshaft, transmits the engine torque through
the clutch plate to the transmission’s input shaft when
engaged. The clutch plate and pressure plate form a unit
Automotive that allows the engagement and disengagement of the
tech can be clutch. A bad driving habit is to “ride the clutch” when
puzzling. To stationary on a hill and not employ the handbrake. This
ease the
confusion, causes unnecessary wear of the friction material of the
each month clutch as it is continuously sliding across the mating

we explain surface of the flywheel in this condition. The distinctive
how a part of clutch smell comes from the friction material as it
your vehicle Springs function overheats and serves as a warning to the driver they are
as dampers to
works lesson shudder and abusing the clutch and shortening its lifespan.
vibration






98 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za