"Best Cars of 2010": Wins for three Audi models

- Audi with outstanding success yet again in readers’ poll

- Audi A4, R8 Spyder and Q5 top their categories

- Audi A3, A6 and R8 Coupé all with second places

* Audi with outstanding success yet again in readers’ poll

* Audi A4, R8 Spyder and Q5 top their categories

* Audi A3, A6 and R8 Coupé all with second places

INGOLSTADT, Germany, Jan 28, 2010 - Audi has continued its success story in the “Best Cars of 2010” readers’ poll conducted by the magazine “auto motor und sport” (ams). Readers voted three Audi models – the Audi A4, R8 Spyder and Audi Q5 – into first place in their categories. Second places for the Audi A3, A6 and R8 Coupé rounded out the outstanding result.

The three first-place finishes once again made Audi one of the most successful brands in the readers’ poll. The Audi R8 Spyder finished top of the category “Convertibles” this year at the first time of asking. Rupert Stadler, Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG, took receipt of the award in the “Alte Reithalle” in Stuttgart. In the “Off-road vehicles” category, the Audi Q5 left its competitors trailing. The award was accepted by Michael Dick, Member of the Board of Management for Technical Development at AUDI AG.

And in the “Midsize class” category, the Audi A4 was the undisputed number one for the third successive occasion. Peter Schwarzenbauer, Member of the Board of Management for Marketing and Sales at AUDI AG, received this award on the company’s behalf in Stuttgart.

These impressive results were rounded out by the three second-place finishes. Readers of ams voted the Audi A3 into second place in the “Lower midsize class” category, a feat emulated by the Audi A6 in the “Upper midsize class” and the Audi R8 Coupé in the “Sports car” categories.

Source: Audi

Alfa 8C Spider: Most beautiful Car of the Year

Just in case there was ever any doubt, Alfa Romeo’s stunning Alfa 8C Spider supercar has been officially named as the Most Beautiful Car of the Year 2009 by Top Gear magazine.

Judged by a Top Gear panel consisting of TV, magazine and online teams – spanning 24 international editions - the awards recognise the most innovative and exciting cars to be launched over the past 12 months.

escribed as ‘perfection’ by Top Gear, the 8C Spider’s good looks are more than skin deep. A responsive 4.7litre V8 engine produces an awesome 450BHP which is channelled through a sophisticated 6-speed F1-style paddle shift gearbox to the rear wheels, producing enough power to launch its occupants from 0-62mph in just 4.5 seconds, and on to a top speed of 181mph.

Just in case there was ever any doubt, Alfa Romeo’s stunning Alfa 8C Spider supercar has been officially named as the Most Beautiful Car of the Year 2009 by Top Gear magazine.

Judged by a Top Gear panel consisting of TV, magazine and online teams – spanning 24 international editions - the awards recognise the most innovative and exciting cars to be launched over the past 12 months.

Described as ‘perfection’ by Top Gear, the 8C Spider’s good looks are more than skin deep. A responsive 4.7litre V8 engine produces an awesome 450BHP which is channelled through a sophisticated 6-speed F1-style paddle shift gearbox to the rear wheels, producing enough power to launch its occupants from 0-62mph in just 4.5 seconds, and on to a top speed of 181mph.

UK Brand Communications Manager, Damien Dally, said:

“There’s no doubt that the 8C Spider is a sensational supercar but to have the recognition of the Top Gear panel is a perfect way to end the year.”

Limited to a production run of just 500 examples, 35 Alfa 8C Spiders are destined for the UK, with most of them sold before you could say “bellissima”. Valued at around £174,000 (R2.1m) the chance of owning an example remains ultra exclusive, however the latest models in Alfa Romeo’s line up have taken inspiration from the Alfa 8C Competizione and Spider – such as the sporty compact Alfa MiTo and 2010’s Alfa Giulietta.

Source: Alfa Romeo

Special training for Felipe

Perfect weather conditions enabled Felipe Massa today to complete a special test session started in the morning behind the wheel of a F2008 provided by Maranello’s F1 Clienti department. The World Champion car from 2008 was brought to the Catalan track for a very special two-day test session with Valentino Rossi. The Brazilian driver took the opportunity to regain confidence behind the wheel on a track, which is part of the Formula 1 calendar.

Felipe concluded the training with the single-seater - fitted with demo tyres due to the current rules - after over 400 kilometres. Before a satisfied Felipe let the track he spoke to www.ferrari.com about today’s impressions: "It was a perfect way to optimise my form here in Barcelona. I’m really happy that I had this new opportunity to get behind the wheel of a Formula 1 single-seater on a race track. I can’t wait to sit in the new car and get stuck in.”

Source: Ferrari

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation to Premiere All-new ASX Compact Crossover at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show

TOKYO, January 19th, 2010 — Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) will premiere its ASX all-new compact crossover from Tuesday March 2, 2010 to Sunday March 14, 2010 at the 80th Geneva International Motor Show held at the Geneva Palexpo in Switzerland.

The ASX is the European-spec version of the Japanese RVR, which is slated to go on sale in Japan from February 2010. MMC's new compact crossover will seat 5 and will be sequentially introduced in European countries from late spring 2010, aimed at expanding MMC's passenger car footprint in the region, following in the footsteps of the larger and recently redesigned Outlander mid-size crossover.

TOKYO, January 19th, 2010 — Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) will premiere its ASX all-new compact crossover from Tuesday March 2, 2010 to Sunday March 14, 2010 at the 80th Geneva International Motor Show held at the Geneva Palexpo in Switzerland.

The ASX is the European-spec version of the Japanese RVR, which is slated to go on sale in Japan from February 2010. MMC's new compact crossover will seat 5 and will be sequentially introduced in European countries from late spring 2010, aimed at expanding MMC's passenger car footprint in the region, following in the footsteps of the larger and recently redesigned Outlander mid-size crossover.



Amongst other available powertrains, the European-spec version will be fitted with an all-new Euro 5-compliant 1.8L turbocharged direct-injection diesel engine jointly developed by MMC and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. and will feature "Automatic Stop & Go" technology. Together with a 6-speed manual transmission, this combination will provide high environmental efficiency.

Source: Mitsubishi

Presentation of the new MERCEDES GP PETRONAS Formula One team

Today, the new Silver Arrows Formula One works team MERCEDES GP PETRONAS was presented at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart. Nico Rosberg and seven-time Formula One World Champion Michael Schumacher along with team management Ross Brawn, Nick Fry and Norbert Haug were introduced to guests with a presentation and press conference.

Over 600 guests, including 200 media representatives and 200 Mercedes-Benz employees, visited the Mercedes-Benz Museum, one of the biggest and most famous car museums in the world, to see the launch of the team and the unveiling of the new Silver Arrows livery. Mercedes-Benz employees from the company’s manufacturing plants in Untertürkheim and Sindelfingen, 100 of whom were invited for their outstanding performances and 100 selected through a popular internal draw, also had the opportunity to take their first look at the new MERCEDES GP PETRONAS team.

Today, the new Silver Arrows Formula One works team MERCEDES GP PETRONAS was presented at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart. Nico Rosberg and seven-time Formula One World Champion Michael Schumacher along with team management Ross Brawn, Nick Fry and Norbert Haug were introduced to guests with a presentation and press conference.

Over 600 guests, including 200 media representatives and 200 Mercedes-Benz employees, visited the Mercedes-Benz Museum, one of the biggest and most famous car museums in the world, to see the launch of the team and the unveiling of the new Silver Arrows livery. Mercedes-Benz employees from the company’s manufacturing plants in Untertürkheim and Sindelfingen, 100 of whom were invited for their outstanding performances and 100 selected through a popular internal draw, also had the opportunity to take their first look at the new MERCEDES GP PETRONAS team.

MICHAEL SCHUMACHER:

“Finally the 2010 Formula One season is firing up! I have to say that I am totally committed to this new challenge. This season feels like a re-start for me and I am so motivated. We have a very exciting combination at MERCEDES GP PETRONAS. We have a World Champion team in every sense of the word and I cannot wait to get into the car for the first time in Valencia. I am convinced that MERCEDES GP PETRONAS will be in a very good position to fight for the championships this season and I will definitely give it a go.

ROSS BRAWN, TEAM PRINCIPAL, MERCEDES GP PETRONAS:

“It is a privilege to be here at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart today for the official presentation of the MERCEDES GP PETRONAS Formula One Team. With your first look around the Museum, you realise the fantastic racing heritage of Mercedes-Benz and we hope to be able to contribute to those successes going forward. Our team have been working extremely hard throughout last year and over the winter on the development of the MGP W01 and everyone at the team is looking forward to the start of testing in Valencia next week.

Source: Daimler

All-New Mazda5 to Premiere at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show

HIROSHIMA, Japan—Mazda Motor Corporation will hold the global premiere of the all-new Mazda5 (known as the Mazda Premacy in Japan) during the press days of the 2010 Geneva Motor Show on March 2 and 3, 2010. Embracing dynamic and elegant Nagare design, the new Mazda5 emits approximately 15 percent less CO2 than the current model thanks to Mazda’s “i-stop” idling stop system, a direct injection gasoline engine and other technologies. European sales of the all-new Mazda5 will commence during fall 2010.

Based on its long-term vision for technology development, Sustainable Zoom-Zoom, Mazda is striving to improve the eco-friendly performance of its products. Whether stuck in traffic or cruising on the highway, the all-new Mazda5 with 2.0L direct injection gasoline engine and i-stop significantly reduces CO2 emissions thanks to the effective combination of i-stop, the high combustion efficiency provided by direct injection, and a six-speed manual transmission with optimized gear ratios. The new Mazda5 cuts CO2 emissions by roughly 15 percent compared to the model it replaces and provides a more comfortable ride with linear and smooth performance characteristics. It is now one of the most eco-friendly minivans in its class in Europe.

The new Mazda5’s green credentials are further enhanced by its other available powertrains, which include a 1.8L gasoline engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission.

Source: Mazda

JAZZ Tops table for holding its value

The Honda Jazz is Britain's best car for retaining its value according to Parker's annual depreciation report which surveyed almost 300 model ranges.

As well as class-leading residual values, the latest Jazz – which went on sale in 2008 – offers many features of a bigger car such as load space, driving feel and high-spec equipment, but with the great fuel economy, low emissions and more affordable running costs of a small one.

“The latest version of the Honda Jazz picks up where the previous model left off as a very desirable used car,” said Kieren Puffett, editor of Parker's. “A combination of incredible flexibility for a vehicle of its size, the interior space of a much larger car and low running costs make it just as appealing to used car buyers as it does to those choosing new. It proved to be the safest investment on four wheels during 2009.”

The Parker’s survey uses the value of cars, as if they were being sold privately, in good condition with 10,000 miles on the clock and compares this to their cost as new, 12 months earlier.

Small cars showed they are certainly the safest bet for depreciation, taking 35 of the top 40 places in the index.

The Honda Jazz is Britain's best car for retaining its value according to Parker's annual depreciation report which surveyed almost 300 model ranges.

“The latest version of the Honda Jazz picks up where the previous model left off as a very desirable used car,” said Kieren Puffett, editor of Parker's. “A combination of incredible flexibility for a vehicle of its size, the interior space of a much larger car and low running costs make it just as appealing to used car buyers as it does to those choosing new. It proved to be the safest investment on four wheels during 2009.”

The Parker’s survey uses the value of cars, as if they were being sold privately, in good condition with 10,000 miles on the clock and compares this to their cost as new, 12 months earlier.

Small cars showed they are certainly the safest bet for depreciation, taking 35 of the top 40 places in the index.

The best performers of 2009

1 Honda Jazz (08 on) - £1379

2 Fiat 500 (08 on) - £1460

3 SEAT Ibiza (08 on) - £1552

4 Hyundai i10 (08 on) - £1650

5 Mazda 2 (07 on) - £1702

The biggest losers of 2009

1 Maybach 62 (03 on) - £127,526

2 Maybach 57 (03 on) - £115,253

3 Rolls-Royce Phantom (03 on) - £81,183

4 Bentley Arnage (98 on) - £66,040

5 Ferrari 612 Scaglietti (05 on) - £51,627

Source: Honda

2010: a great year for Alfa Romeo

It’s official - the Alfa Romeo MiTo 1.4 TBi is one of just eight finalists in the SA Guild of Motoring Journalists / Wesbank Car of the Year for 2010. All the finalists will be put through their paces in a rigorous testing programme that takes place in February - the winner will then be announced at a glittering function on the 18 March. But win or lose, the fact that the Alfa MiTo has made it to the finalists’ list is in itself an outstanding achievement, as the South African Guild of Motoring Journalists could select from well over 100 all-new models that made their way onto our roads during 2009.

The MiTo has been a success for the Alfa Romeo brand in South Africa with an average of 30 new MiTos per month finding new homes. This year, the MiTo range will be expanded with a 100 kW and 127 kW engine version (both revolutionary Multiair 1.4 turbo units). The 127 kW version will badged Quadrofoglio Verde and befitting its flagship status it will boast sportier styling, dynamic chassis mods plus a few other luxury add-ons. The newcomers are expected to debut in the 2nd quarter (April/May).

Of course, though, the really big news for Alfa Romeo in 2010 will be the launch of the much-anticipated Milano. This Golf-sized, five-door will set the proverbial cat amongst the hatchback pigeons thanks to its exquisite architecture and Multiair-based engine line-up. The SA line-up is not yet finalised but will most likely include two models at launch - a 127 kW 1.4 Turbo version and a range-topping 170 kW 1.8 Turbo Multiair (likely to be badged Quadrofoglio Verde). ETA is between 3rd & 4th quarter (October) – afterall we don’t want to steal any of the Soccer World Cup’s thunder!

It’s official - the Alfa Romeo MiTo 1.4 TBi is one of just eight finalists in the SA Guild of Motoring Journalists / Wesbank Car of the Year for 2010. All the finalists will be put through their paces in a rigorous testing programme that takes place in February - the winner will then be announced at a glittering function on the 18 March. But win or lose, the fact that the Alfa MiTo has made it to the finalists’ list is in itself an outstanding achievement, as the South African Guild of Motoring Journalists could select from well over 100 all-new models that made their way onto our roads during 2009.

The MiTo has been a success for the Alfa Romeo brand in South Africa with an average of 30 new MiTos per month finding new homes. This year, the MiTo range will be expanded with a 100 kW and 127 kW engine version (both revolutionary Multiair 1.4 turbo units). The 127 kW version will badged Quadrofoglio Verde and befitting its flagship status it will boast sportier styling, dynamic chassis mods plus a few other luxury add-ons. The newcomers are expected to debut in the 2nd quarter (April/May).

Of course, though, the really big news for Alfa Romeo in 2010 will be the launch of the much-anticipated Milano. This Golf-sized, five-door will set the proverbial cat amongst the hatchback pigeons thanks to its exquisite architecture and Multiair-based engine line-up. The SA line-up is not yet finalised but will most likely include two models at launch - a 127 kW 1.4 Turbo version and a range-topping 170 kW 1.8 Turbo Multiair (likely to be badged Quadrofoglio Verde). ETA is between 3rd & 4th quarter (October) – afterall we don’t want to steal any of the Soccer World Cup’s thunder!

Source: Alfa Romeo

The BMW 3 Series in the 2010 Model Year

Driving pleasure in the BMW 3 Series is reaching new heights yet again in the 2010 model year. Carefully conceived modifications in design, a thoroughly updated and extended range of engines, as well as innovative model features give both the new BMW 3 Series Coupé and the new BMW 3 Series Convertible even greater appeal and style. And at the same time the Saloon and Touring now also come with new power units offering even greater qualities than before.

Benefiting from all these innovations in the powertrain, the BMW 3 Series is able to further strengthen its status as an outstandingly dynamic and exceptionally efficient range of models in the mid-market segment.

Driving pleasure in the BMW 3 Series is reaching new heights yet again in the 2010 model year. Carefully conceived modifications in design, a thoroughly updated and extended range of engines, as well as innovative model features give both the new BMW 3 Series Coupé and the new BMW 3 Series Convertible even greater appeal and style. And at the same time the Saloon and Touring now also come with new power units offering even greater qualities than before.

Benefiting from all these innovations in the powertrain, the BMW 3 Series is able to further strengthen its status as an outstandingly dynamic and exceptionally efficient range of models in the mid-market segment.

Optimised in all key areas: the new BMW 3 Series Coupé and the new BMW 3 Series Convertible.

New design features at the front, side and rear precisely integrated into the car give even greater emphasis to the sporting and elegant character of the BMW 3 Series Coupé and the BMW 3 Series Convertible. At the same time the modifications in design make the silhouette of both models even sleeker and more dynamic as a sign of superior performance.

New diversity in the BMW 3 Series engine range.

Entering the 2010 model year, all engines in the BMW 3 Series fulfil the EU5 emission standard. At the same time the range of engines is being expanded by new entry-level variants for the Coupé and Convertible, as well as a new entry-level diesel for the BMW 3 Series Touring.

The market launch of the new BMW 3 Series Coupé and the new BMW 3 Series Convertible also marks the introduction of the BMW 318i powered by a straight-four 2.0-litre 105 kW/143 hp petrol engine. The 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel in the new BMW 316d Touring delivers maximum output of 85 kW/115 hp.

The top-of-the-range BMW 335i available on all body variants of the BMW 3 Series now comes with a 3.0-litre straight-six featuring BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology, High Precision Injection and VALVETRONIC valve management combining supreme output of 225 kW/306 hp with fuel economy and CO2 management once again enhanced by a significant margin.

Source: BMW

JEEP® Brand broadens vehicle lineup with a new model

Available second quarter 2010, Jeep Wrangler Mountain edition boasts rugged outdoor theme, with 32-inch tyres and unique wheel, grill and bumper appliques.

Jeep Wrangler Mountain

Further expanding the iconic Wrangler brand’s reach, Jeep delivers another high-impact, limited-edition model with the Jeep Wrangler Mountain edition.

The Jeep Wrangler Mountain edition is based on the Wrangler Sport S package, and is available in Wrangler Unlimited 4x4 models.

Exterior features include a unique “Mountain” decal on the hood with latitude and longitude coordinates that represent an actual location relating to the “Mountain” theme of the vehicle; grill and bumper appliques; tabular side steps; 32-inch tyres; black tail lamp guards and a fuel-filler door from Mopar.

Available exterior colours include Rescue Green Metallic Clear Coat, Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl Coat and Deep Water Blue Pearl Coat.

Interior features include an embossed seat insert with embroidered “Mountain logo”, and anodized graphite heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) rings.

The Jeep Wrangler Mountain option package will be available in South Africa.

- Available second quarter 2010, Jeep Wrangler Mountain edition boasts rugged outdoor theme, with 32-inch tyres and unique wheel, grill and bumper appliques.

Jeep Wrangler Mountain

Further expanding the iconic Wrangler brand’s reach, Jeep delivers another high-impact, limited-edition model with the Jeep Wrangler Mountain edition.

The Jeep Wrangler Mountain edition is based on the Wrangler Sport S package, and is available in Wrangler Unlimited 4x4 models.

Exterior features include a unique “Mountain” decal on the hood with latitude and longitude coordinates that represent an actual location relating to the “Mountain” theme of the vehicle; grill and bumper appliques; tabular side steps; 32-inch tyres; black tail lamp guards and a fuel-filler door from Mopar.

Available exterior colours include Rescue Green Metallic Clear Coat, Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl Coat and Deep Water Blue Pearl Coat.

Interior features include an embossed seat insert with embroidered “Mountain logo”, and anodized graphite heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) rings.

The Jeep Wrangler Mountain option package will be available in South Africa.

Source: Chrysler

Volkswagen of South Africa leads tough passenger car market in 2009

“Volkswagen of South Africa lead the passenger market in 2009 with total sales of 49 902 units, thereby securing 19.3% of the total passenger market,” said Mike Glendinning, VW of SA Director of Sales and Marketing.

“Volkswagen of South Africa lead the passenger market in 2009 with total sales of 49 902 units, thereby securing 19.3% of the total passenger market,” said Mike Glendinning, VW of SA Director of Sales and Marketing.

“The Polo range proved to be South Africa’s favourite passenger Brand with sales of 18 288 units in 2009”.

“The Audi Brand recorded sales of 9 234 units in the premium segment, securing a very satisfactory 3.6% share of the total 2009 passenger market. Audi sales in December exceeded 1 000 units for the first time in 2009 which was a very positive end to 2009 for the Brand”.

During December 2009 a total of 19 161 new passenger cars were sold in South Africa.

Total new passenger car sales in December, including sales not reported in detail to NAAMSA, decreased by -16.4 percent when compared to November 2009, and by -8.8 percent when compared to December 2008.

The full year 2009 new passenger car market recorded sales of -21.6 percent below the market achieved in 2008.

Source: Volkswagen

Toyota Unveils Compact Dedicated Hybrid Concept

DETROIT, January 11, 2010---Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A, Inc., today unveiled the FT-CH dedicated hybrid concept at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. The FT-CH is a concept that would address Toyota’s stated strategy to offer a wider variety of conventional hybrid choices to its customers, as it begins to introduce plug-in hybrids (PHVs) and battery electrics (BEVs) in model year 2012, and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCHVs) in 2015 in global markets.

“Within the next 10 to 20 years, we will not only reach peak oil we will enter a period where demand for all liquid fuels will exceed supply,” said Jim Lentz, TMS president. “A century after the invention of the automobile, we must re-invent it with powertrains that significantly reduce or eliminate the use of conventional petroleum fuels. One of many alternatives is through what is commonly called the electrification of the automobile. By far, the single most successful example of this has been the gas-electric hybrid.

The CH stands for compact hybrid as in compact class and it’s a concept that can best be defined by comparing it with the mid-size class Prius. The FT-CH captures the spirit and functionality of a car that thrives in the inner-city environment; sized right to be nimble, responsive and maneuverable.



Source: Toyota

An exciting year in the motor industry awaits

2010 is finally here and it is shaping up to be massive year, not only because of the Fifa world cup but for the motor industry in South Africa as well. The country will see a boom in the economy and most industries will benefit from it.

Carsblog will be here to document all the latest releases of new car models, big developments in the motor industry, first sightings of prototype vehicles and all other bizarre news and information relating to the motor industry world wide.

Not to be left out, the used car market is also shaping up for a big year with Cars.co.za already showing sings of growth and an influx of visitors looking for bargains on used cars.

Best wishes for the new year and be good!

New Branding, New Mobility

For 200 years, Peugeot has uniquely combined emotion and the pursuit of perfection in all its activities. This twofold

approach is in the Marque’s genes.

For example Peugeot has combined:

and steel to create its first peppermills,

- the saloon and diesel to democratize progress,

- the coupé and the cabriolet to invent the coupé-cabriolet segment and become its leader,

- the saloon and the SUV to launch the 3008,

- diesel and electric to pioneer the diesel hybrid,

- the saloon and the scooter to develop the BB1.

Peugeot is a unique alliance of the pursuit of perfection and emotion. Peugeot’s aim is to ensure that emotion is always

at the heart of the motoring experience: a Peugeot will never be purely functional.

A NEW SIGNATURE

To broadcast and illustrate its brand project around the world, Peugeot is taking on a new international

claim:

For 200 years, Peugeot has uniquely combined emotion and the pursuit of perfection in all its activities. This twofold

approach is in the Marque’s genes.

For example Peugeot has combined:

* Wood and steel to create its first peppermills,

* The saloon and diesel to democratize progress,

* The coupé and the cabriolet to invent the coupé-cabriolet segment and become its leader,

* The saloon and the SUV to launch the 3008,

* Diesel and electric to pioneer the diesel hybrid,

* The saloon and the scooter to develop the BB1.

Peugeot is a unique alliance of the pursuit of perfection and emotion. Peugeot’s aim is to ensure that emotion is always

at the heart of the motoring experience: a Peugeot will never be purely functional.

A NEW SIGNATURE

To broadcast and illustrate its brand project around the world, Peugeot is taking on a new international

claim:

The Lion, associated with Peugeot since 1858, is changing. Created by Peugeot designers, the Lion on the radiator

grille:

* Is simpler in its design,

* More dynamic, with a new posture and a new fluidity,

* Creates a bimetallic effect through the contrast of its mat/lustrous finish.

This Lion is also the Marque’s new logo:

* Three-dimensional for greater modernity,

* It discards its blue flag for a more forceful effect,

* The Peugeot blue becomes darker and is now combined with the new typography of the Marque’s name.

The first vehicle to display the new Lion is the Peugeot RCZ which will be launched in the spring of 2010.

Source: Peugeot

Nissan Releases Revised Skyline Sedan and Coupe

The current generation Skyline Sedan and Coupe, introduced in 2006 and 2007 respectively, have enjoyed a strong reputation for their sporty designs, high-quality interiors and exhilarating performance. Both Sedan and Coupe models receive a number of significant changes for the revised model, including a revised exterior for the Skyline Sedan and a refined interior, enhanced navigation system and upgraded air conditioning for both body configurations. In addition, the model grading system has been revised to includes new, more affordable Skyline Sedan 250GT A package and Skyline Coupe 370GT A package models.

Mechanical refinements include the availability of a 7-speed automatic transmission with the 2-wheel drive Skyline Sedan equipped with the 2.5-liter V6 engine. Previously offered only with the 3.7-liter V6 engine, the 7-speed automatic provides an expanded lockup area and neutral idle control for improved fuel efficiency and smoother, seamless acceleration (versus the previous 5-speed automatic-equipped 2.5-liter Sedan). This model achieves the "2010 standards plus 15%" target and qualifies for Japan's preferential program for environment-friendly vehicles*1, with the acquisition tax and weight tax both reduced by half. Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) is also now standard across the entire Skyline range.

The current generation Skyline Sedan and Coupe, introduced in 2006 and 2007 respectively, have enjoyed a strong reputation for their sporty designs, high-quality interiors and exhilarating performance. Both Sedan and Coupe models receive a number of significant changes for the revised model, including a revised exterior for the Skyline Sedan and a refined interior, enhanced navigation system and upgraded air conditioning for both body configurations.

In addition, the model grading system has been revised to includes new, more affordable Skyline Sedan 250GT A package and Skyline Coupe 370GT A package models.

Mechanical refinements include the availability of a 7-speed automatic transmission with the 2-wheel drive Skyline Sedan equipped with the 2.5-liter V6 engine. Previously offered only with the 3.7-liter V6 engine, the 7-speed automatic provides an expanded lockup area and neutral idle control for improved fuel efficiency and smoother, seamless acceleration (versus the previous 5-speed automatic-equipped 2.5-liter Sedan).

This model achieves the "2010 standards plus 15%" target and qualifies for Japan's preferential program for environment-friendly vehicles*1, with the acquisition tax and weight tax both reduced by half. Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) is also now standard across the entire Skyline range.

Source: Nissan

Alfa Romeo Giulietta to debut in SA

This is truly a red-letter year – the shroud of secrecy surrounding Alfa Romeo’s most highly anticipated new C-segment hatch has finally been lifted. It’s name? The Alfa Romeo Giulietta, possibly one of the most evocative names in motoring history.

The all-new Alfa Romeo Giulietta will be presented to the world at the forthcoming Geneva Car Show early in 2010. Sales of the new model will start in Europe in spring gradually be extended to all the major markets. Its South African debut is planned for the third quarter around October.

In the Centenary year, the name is a tribute to an automobile myth and Alfa Romeo. Produced by the Alfa Romeo Style Centre, the Alfa Giulietta is a sports car capable of expressing great agility on the most demanding routes whilst providing comfort on everyday roads.

Combining sportiness and elegance, the Alfa Giulietta is the result of Alfa Romeo's new direction in style and technology - an approach that started with the 8C Competizione supercar and which recalls the brand's glorious past while projecting its traditional values of technology and emotion into the future.

This is truly a red-letter year – the shroud of secrecy surrounding Alfa Romeo’s most highly anticipated new C-segment hatch has finally been lifted. It’s name? The Alfa Romeo Giulietta, possibly one of the most evocative names in motoring history.

The all-new Alfa Romeo Giulietta will be presented to the world at the forthcoming Geneva Car Show early in 2010. Sales of the new model will start in Europe in spring gradually be extended to all the major markets. Its South African debut is planned for the third quarter around October.

In the Centenary year, the name is a tribute to an automobile myth and Alfa Romeo. Produced by the Alfa Romeo Style Centre, the Alfa Giulietta is a sports car capable of expressing great agility on the most demanding routes whilst providing comfort on everyday roads.

Combining sportiness and elegance, the Alfa Giulietta is the result of Alfa Romeo's new direction in style and technology - an approach that started with the 8C Competizione supercar and which recalls the brand's glorious past while projecting its traditional values of technology and emotion into the future.

Source: Alfa Romeo