Porsche Panamera awarded the Golden Steering Wheel

Stuttgart. The Porsche Panamera has been awarded the Golden Steering Wheel as the Best New Car of the Year in the Luxury Performance Class. With its combination of supreme comfort and outstanding sportiness, and through its unique design, Porsche’s Gran Turismo convinced the 50-man jury made up of racing drivers, engineers, celebrities and the senior editors of the Auto Bild Magazine Group trying out the candidates on thorough test drives.

Before receiving this outstanding award, the Panamera had already been chosen by readers as one of the five best models in the luxury performance class with experts putting the car through its paces in the final contest on a test track in Italy for two enduring days.

This year this special prize presented for the first time by publisher Axel Springer in 1976 was awarded not “just” by the German Sunday newspaper Bild am Sonntag, but rather by a group of publications including the Auto Bild Motoring Journal and its European sister publications, making this coveted award even more significant than ever.

Source: Porsche

Mazda amplifies all-new Mazda3 and MazdaSpeed3 for 2009 SEMA show

LAS VEGAS - With the launch of the all-new 2010 MAZDA3 and MAZDASPEED3, a small team of designers and engineers at Mazda R&D in Irvine, Calif., decided to celebrate with a pair of special projects, debuting for the first time at the 2009 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show.

Both cars are painted to mimic the new MAZDA3 World Challenge race car, but in a more subdued Crystal White Pearl base coat with soft gray tone graphics. The scheme is a modern twist on the famous Renown graphics used on the Mazda 787B that won Le Mans in 1991.

The sedan was sent to Tri-Point Engineering for a boost in power. Between World Challenge races, Tri-Point installed their turbo kit, utilizing a rugged cast iron turbo manifold feeding a high-efficiency Garrett GT2871R ball bearing turbo. At a mild 10 psi of boost, the 2.5-liter MZR engine is making well over 250 horsepower at the wheels (final tuning is still being finished).

To handle this extra power, the front brakes were replaced with rotors and calipers from a MAZDASPEED3, while the rear rotors and calipers were sourced from a MAZDA5. Double-adjustable coil-overs from KW Suspension, paired with a Tri-Point adjustable rear stabilizer bar bring the handling back into harmony with the engine's higher output.

Source: Mazda

Audi Group continues to defy crisis in 3rd quarter: operating profit of EUR 348 million

INGOLSTADT, Germany, Oct 30, 2009 - Audi has shrugged off the effects of the global economic crisis and again posted a clear operating profit of EUR 348 million in the third quarter of the current fiscal year (2008: EUR 760 million). Over the first three quarters of the current fiscal year, Audi has thus achieved an operating return of 5.4 percent (2008: 8.0 percent), making it one of the top performers in the industry.

Despite the continuing global economic crisis, Audi succeeded in yet again reporting a clear operating profit for the third quarter of the year. The Audi Group generated revenues of EUR 7.2 billion between July and September (2008: EUR 8.4 billion), down 14.9 percent on the record figure of the previous year. The operating profit for the period amounted to EUR 348 million, a fall of 54.2 percent on the record figure of the previous year (2008: EUR 760 million).

“The figure was diminished not just by the general economic situation but also by expenditure necessitated by product launches such as the A8 and A1, as well as by the three-week summer production break in August”, remarked Axel Strotbek, Board Member for Finance and Organization at AUDI AG. He declared that the company was nevertheless very satisfied with the result, which further strengthened its liquidity position.

“This demonstrates how prudently Audi is steering a course through the crisis”, continued Strotbek. He was also bullish about the fourth quarter: “We expect our profitability to be even better than in the third quarter.”

Source: Audi

INGOLSTADT, Germany, Oct 30, 2009 - Audi has shrugged off the effects of the global economic crisis and again posted a clear operating profit of EUR 348 million in the third quarter of the current fiscal year (2008: EUR 760 million). Over the first three quarters of the current fiscal year, Audi has thus achieved an operating return of 5.4 percent (2008: 8.0 percent), making it one of the top performers in the industry.

Despite the continuing global economic crisis, Audi succeeded in yet again reporting a clear operating profit for the third quarter of the year. The Audi Group generated revenues of EUR 7.2 billion between July and September (2008: EUR 8.4 billion), down 14.9 percent on the record figure of the previous year. The operating profit for the period amounted to EUR 348 million, a fall of 54.2 percent on the record figure of the previous year (2008: EUR 760 million). “The figure was diminished not just by the general economic situation but also by expenditure necessitated by product launches such as the A8 and A1, as well as by the three-week summer production break in August”, remarked Axel Strotbek, Board Member for Finance and Organization at AUDI AG. He declared that the company was nevertheless very satisfied with the result, which further strengthened its liquidity positionINGOLSTADT, Germany, Oct 30, 2009 - Audi has shrugged off the effects of the global economic crisis and again posted a clear operating profit of EUR 348 million in the third quarter of the current fiscal year (2008: EUR 760 million). Over the first three quarters of the current fiscal year, Audi has thus achieved an operating return of 5.4 percent (2008: 8.0 percent), making it one of the top performers in the industry.

Despite the continuing global economic crisis, Audi succeeded in yet again reporting a clear operating profit for the third quarter of the year. The Audi Group generated revenues of EUR 7.2 billion between July and September (2008: EUR 8.4 billion), down 14.9 percent on the record figure of the previous year. The operating profit for the period amounted to EUR 348 million, a fall of 54.2 percent on the record figure of the previous year (2008: EUR 760 million). “The figure was diminished not just by the general economic situation but also by expenditure necessitated by product launches such as the A8 and A1, as well as by the three-week summer production break in August”, remarked Axel Strotbek, Board Member for Finance and Organization at AUDI AG. He declared that the company was nevertheless very satisfied with the result, which further strengthened its liquidity position.

The Mercedes-Benz GL-Class is even more appealing

The Mercedes-Benz GL-Class continues to hold a strong position in the market segment of luxurious sports utility vehicles.

“The latest model update has made the premium off-roader even more attractive. The designers have paid special attention to the vehicle’s exterior design and have made its striking body even more appealing,” says Eckart Mayer, Divisional Manager, Mercedes-Benz Cars.

The GL-Class’ expressive presence is further accentuated by modernised bumpers, redesigned chrome underbody protection at the front and the rear, a new radiator grille, fog lights and optional day time driving lights.

Other new features include light-alloy wheels measuring between 19, 20 and 21 inches and reworked chrome tailpipes. The range of colours is supplemented by two new metallic paint colours: “Tenorite Grey” and “Palladium Silver”. The tow bar is now hidden behind the rear apron and is swung out when needed.

“The GL-Class also offers the very best in safety and remains the leading force in this field, allowing greater prestige for sophisticated tastes,” says Mayer.

The V8 engine in the GL 500 4MATIC is among the most powerful in its displacement class with comparatively frugal consumption. This 8-cylinder engine with 285 kW develops a maximum torque of 530 Nm, which is available over a wide range of 2 800 to 4 800 r/min. The GL 500 4MATIC accelerates from 0 – 100 km/h in 6,5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 240 km/h.

The lightweight construction of this engine consists of aluminium and forged steel works, together with special shifting camshafts which optimise the gas cycle in the engine. This results in improved smoothness and higher torque.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

Jo’burg to Durban holiday tips (Part 2)

Speed cameras

The festive season means that the roads will be crazy and packed with drivers. The Natal region always employs a zero tolerance policy during this time and the speed cameras are out in full force. There are a massive amount of cameras on the Jo’burg to Durban road these days; a lot more than last year even. Any time the highway goes past a town, its 80km/h and like always Van Reenens is also 80km/h.

If you do happen to get caught, head over to www.payfine.co.za to sort it out.

How to transport your surfboard down to the coast for all those Jo’burg surfers who have surfboards and yet for some reason don’t live at the coast and have to make long trips lugging their boards every few months to get their surfing fix …



I realize this section probably won’t apply to most people but if you are silly enough to be a surfer living in Jo’burg, you deserve some love. Assuming you don’t drive a huge 4x4 and are able to just throw the boards inside, or on the already provided roof racks, there are two options.

The custom roof rack



This option is quite pricy, but it’s the best way to go about it, assuming you can afford it. There are many options but Thule offer a really nice rack they call the load carrier. What’s nice is that they literally fit onto any car and are the real deal. It will set you back quite a bit, but the rack is useful for carrying anything really so you likely won’t regret the purchase.

The Island Style travel racks



This option is way cheaper at around R300 it seems like a steal. The rack simply ties in through the car doors and is strapped down tight. You can pick one up any most surf stores or order one online at Atlantic surf. Keep in mind though that they can be very noisy if you haven’t tied it in properly. Also if it starts to rain, the water collects on the straps on the outside and filters through inside the car, which really really sucks.

Lastly

Remember that at its core, the real meaning and purpose of the December holiday is to irritate the Durban locals. There is nothing better than seeing a car-park full of GP number plates, and a swarm of rowdy Jo’burgers turning, what used to be a peaceful beach town, into their own personal pool party.

So pack your bags and hit the road. See you on the beach!

Mugen Euro confirms production of ultimate Civic Type R

MUGEN Euro has confirmed a limited production run of the Civic Type R MUGEN, following huge interest in the concept version from the UK and overseas.

An exclusive run of up to 20 cars will be hand-built in the UK by MUGEN, the long-standing tuner of Honda engines for motor racing. Production of the road-legal super hatch will take place at MUGEN Euro, based in Northampton – with customers receiving a unique, involved experience during the build process of each car.

MUGEN Euro has confirmed a limited production run of the Civic Type R MUGEN, following huge interest in the concept version from the UK and overseas.

An exclusive run of up to 20 cars will be hand-built in the UK by MUGEN, the long-standing tuner of Honda engines for motor racing. Production of the road-legal super hatch will take place at MUGEN Euro, based in Northampton – with customers receiving a unique, involved experience during the build process of each car.

“Each Type R MUGEN will be an exclusive, hand-built race car for the road,” says Hiroki Toyoda, Vice President of MUGEN EURO. “When we launched the Civic Type RR saloon in Japan, we sold out of all 300 units in just six minutes. Given the interest we have already had from car enthusiasts in the UK and abroad, we hope to repeat that achievement.”

Race engine for the road

The 2.0-litre i-VTEC engine is the first to reap the benefits of MUGEN’s time in Formula 1 and GT racing, as well as hundreds of development hours and testing time with the Honda K20A engine on the world-class MUGEN engine dyno. New camshafts and a modified intake system increase power by 20 per cent to 240PS, and boost torque by 10 per cent throughout the rev range. A change of pistons also helps by increasing the compression ratio, and breathing is enhanced by fitting a custom stainless steel exhaust system and MUGEN airbox. Meanwhile, a bespoke MUGEN map for the ECU allows the engine to take full advantage of the modifications.

Integrated style

MUGEN was keen to amend the already-aggressive original styling of the Civic Type R with modifications that are integrated. A large wing adorns the back of the car, and plays a role in increasing downforce at speed, to improve stability. Other measures to improve the car’s overall aero efficiency include replacing front and rear skirts with high-quality composite items. At the front, a new grille wearing the MUGEN emblem enhances the nose.

Source: Honda

All-new Toyota Prado Builds On Tried and Tested Formula

The all-new Land Cruiser Prado from Toyota comes to South Africa just weeks after its international debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September. Essentially a clean sheet design, this latest mid-sized Land Cruiser SUV follows the tried and tested formula of a strong, all steel body mounted on a ladder type frame for the highest level of durability in tough operating conditions – the type of conditions that have led to the Land Cruiser brand laying claim to the title “Master of Africa”.

The design brief for the new Prado required that any increase in overall size be kept to a minimum to preserve the excellent agility and manoeuvrability of the current model and retain its true mid-size SUV character. In keeping with this brief overall length increases by 45mm and overall width by 10mm. The height of the new Prado is reduced by 20mm compared to the model it replaces and this provides for enhanced aerodynamics and thus improved fuel economy.

The all-new Land Cruiser Prado from Toyota comes to South Africa just weeks after its international debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September. Essentially a clean sheet design, this latest mid-sized Land Cruiser SUV follows the tried and tested formula of a strong, all steel body mounted on a ladder type frame for the highest level of durability in tough operating conditions – the type of conditions that have led to the Land Cruiser brand laying claim to the title “Master of Africa”.

The design brief for the new Prado required that any increase in overall size be kept to a minimum to preserve the excellent agility and manoeuvrability of the current model and retain its true mid-size SUV character. In keeping with this brief overall length increases by 45mm and overall width by 10mm. The height of the new Prado is reduced by 20mm compared to the model it replaces and this provides for enhanced aerodynamics and thus improved fuel economy.

Styling features that create a powerful image for the new Prado include the belt line positioned 20mm higher, the extension of the engine cowl 45mm further forward, and a raised bonnet line. These features also provide for improved visibility and situational awareness for the driver.

Within the new external envelope the Prado design team has improved interior space and utility. The length of the cabin is increased by 35mm, it is 5mm wider, and the space between the driver and the front passenger is increased by 30mm.

Sliding second row seats provide for “walk-in” entry to the third row of seats and for increased leg room for passengers in the second row of seats. The floor level is lowered around the third row of seats to improve foot space and seating posture. The third row seats can be stored under the floor when not in use for improved luggage area utility.

With its full complement of electronic driver and safety aids the new generation Prado sets new standards for vehicle control in its class.

Source: Toyota

Kia reveals name of all-new luxury sedan

Kia Motors Corporation has unveiled the first official picture and export market name of the production version of its KND-5 concept car – an all-new sedan designed to satisfy drivers’ desire for refinement, safety and emotional satisfaction by creating ‘ideal’ driving conditions.

The stylish luxury sedan, which is to be called ‘Cadenza’ in markets outside of Korea, will make its overseas premiere at the Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Dubai international motor shows, towards the end of the year.

Sporty and sleek in appearance, Cadenza features a bold headlamp design with attention-grabbing LED surrounds and a purposeful, athletic character line. The prominent front grille and stylish taillights emphasize the car’s high-tech feel and are a continuing expression of Kia's dramatic design DNA.

On the inside, there is a futuristic ‘floating’ dashboard that highlights Kia’s uniquely innovative design approach. The welcome system turns on the exterior puddle and interior lights to ‘greet’ the car owner, while the interior mood lighting strip, which runs along the dashboard to the door trim, creates a warm atmosphere within the vehicle.

Kia Cadenza’s dynamic design and driving performance, allied with a raft of competitive passenger-friendly high-tech features, will make it a leader in the large, luxury sedan market segment.

Source: Kia

Opel Vivaro Van Wins Fuel-Saving Marathon

The Vivaro has won the title of “economy champ 2009” in the van category of the British Fleetworld magazine’s fuel-saving marathon. The successful Vauxhall Vivaro from the UK is technically identical to the Opel Vivaro in Europe. With an equivalent of 5.1 liters of diesel fuel per 100 km, the Vivaro also beat the model’s economical regular average consumption of 7.8 liters by a good third on a 580-kilometer test drive through central England. In doing so, it left all the other competitors in its category behind.

The fuel-saving characteristics of the Vivaro van with short wheelbase and 2.0 CDTI (84 kW/114 hp) turbo-diesel engine were put to the test during the challenge. The British fleet magazine Fleetworld holds the fuel-saving marathon annually and a total of ten vans from different manufacturers took part in this year’s contestThe Vivaro has won the title of “economy champ 2009” in the van category of the British Fleetworld magazine’s fuel-saving marathon. The successful Vauxhall Vivaro from the UK is technically identical to the Opel Vivaro in Europe. With an equivalent of 5.1 liters of diesel fuel per 100 km, the Vivaro also beat the model’s economical regular average consumption of 7.8 liters by a good third on a 580-kilometer test drive through central England. In doing so, it left all the other competitors in its category behind.

The Vivaro has won the title of “economy champ 2009” in the van category of the British Fleetworld magazine’s fuel-saving marathon. The successful Vauxhall Vivaro from the UK is technically identical to the Opel Vivaro in Europe. With an equivalent of 5.1 liters of diesel fuel per 100 km, the Vivaro also beat the model’s economical regular average consumption of 7.8 liters by a good third on a 580-kilometer test drive through central England. In doing so, it left all the other competitors in its category behind.

The fuel-saving characteristics of the Vivaro van with short wheelbase and 2.0 CDTI (84 kW/114 hp) turbo-diesel engine were put to the test during the challenge. The British fleet magazine Fleetworld holds the fuel-saving marathon annually and a total of ten vans from different manufacturers took part in this year’s contest.

Source: Opel

The fuel-saving characteristics of the Vivaro van with short wheelbase and 2.0 CDTI (84 kW/114 hp) turbo-diesel engine were put to the test during the challenge. The British fleet magazine Fleetworld holds the fuel-saving marathon annually and a total of ten vans from different manufacturers took part in this year’s contest.

Nissan Releases All-New Fairlady Z Roadster

YOKOHAMA (Oct. 15, 2009) - Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. announced the release of the new Fairlady Z Roadster, which goes on sale today at Nissan dealers nationwide. In addition, the Fairlady Z Coupe receives minor new model enhancements and a new "Fairlady Z 40th Anniversary" model, which marks the first four decades of the popular Nissan sports car, joins the lineup.

Fairlady Z Roadster

Based on the latest generation Fairlady Z Coupe, the all-new Fairlady Z Roadster is a two-seat convertible with a fully , automatic power-operated, soft top. Along with providing the exhilaration of open-air driving, Fairlady Z Roadster offers high performance, dynamic design and excellent value.

Like the Fairlady Z Coupe, the new Roadster model features significant improvements in performance, style and technology versus the previous Fairlady Z Roadster design. With its shorter wheelbase, reduced weight and advanced VQ37VHR 3.7-liter engine, it gives remarkably high levels of acceleration and handling, while also providing a comfortable interior with minimum wind buffeting - even with the top open.

Key highlights of the new Fairlady Z Roadster include:

Optimal balance of sports car performance and open-top convertible exhilaration

Signature Fairlady Z styling with an advanced, fully automatic canvas top

Air conditionined seats for added occupant comfort, even on hot days

Available advanced technology, including HDD CARWINGS navigation system with enhanced entertainment features and premium Bose® audio system

Uncompromised Fairlady Z performance

Fairlady Z Roadster

Based on the latest generation Fairlady Z Coupe, the all-new Fairlady Z Roadster is a two-seat convertible with a fully , automatic power-operated, soft top. Along with providing the exhilaration of open-air driving, Fairlady Z Roadster offers high performance, dynamic design and excellent value.

Like the Fairlady Z Coupe, the new Roadster model features significant improvements in performance, style and technology versus the previous Fairlady Z Roadster design. With its shorter wheelbase, reduced weight and advanced VQ37VHR 3.7-liter engine, it gives remarkably high levels of acceleration and handling, while also providing a comfortable interior with minimum wind buffeting - even with the top open.

Fairlady Z 40th Anniversary Edition

In addition to the new Roadster, a special Fairlady Z 40th Anniversary version joins the Fairlady Z lineup. Created in celebration of the 40th anniversary of the birth of the original Fairlady Z in October 1969, the limited edition vehicle will be available at Nissan dealers nationwide for one year following the release date

Based on the Version ST (6MT/7AT), a highest grade of the Fairlady Z coupe, the 40th Anniversary Edition includes specifically-designed real leather seats, memorial engraving on the seat backs, dedicated aluminum wheels, and a 40th anniversary emblem on the rear body. Source: Nissan