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

Quality used cars over R500 000?

As a follow up to the article I wrote last week on Quality used cars for under R30k, I thought it would be only fair to write something on some of the options in a slightly more expensive range. And by ‘slightly’ I mean ‘quite a lot more than slightly’. It is however a far more difficult topic to write about, as there are so many more options of used cars over R500 000 at Cars.co.za to look at. That said I have picked out three which for one reason or another just make you feel good.

Hummer H2 S.U.T

As for any kind of used car at or around this price, you will expect it to be at least fairly new. There will be some exceptions that will be from the 90’s but its going to be rare. As for the Hummer, it’s probably the coolest of the 4x4 range. There is obvious competition from the likes of Land Rover and Jeep etc, but those vehicles actually have a use and a purpose. Hummer vehicles on the other hand are made simply as … I’m not even sure, but that’s the appeal.

The Hummer slogan is ‘Like nothing else’ and I think that about sums it up, the sheer audacity and ridiculousness of the Hummer is what makes it a worthwhile buy. If you happen to have R899 000 lying around and are going to be attending movie premiers with your fishing rods in the back and a canoe on the roof, then this is the car for you.

Mileage: 27 098km

Year: 2008

Cost: R899 000

As for any kind of used car at or around this price, you will expect it to be at least fairly new. There will be some exceptions that will be from the 90’s but its going to be rare. As for the Hummer, it’s probably the coolest of the 4x4 range. There is obvious competition from the likes of Land Rover and Jeep etc, but those vehicles actually have a use and a purpose. Hummer vehicles on the other hand are made simply as … I’m not even sure, but that’s the appeal.

The Hummer slogan is ‘Like nothing else’ and I think that about sums it up, the sheer audacity and ridiculousness of the Hummer is what makes it a worthwhile buy. If you happen to have R899 000 lying around and are going to be attending movie premiers with your fishing rods in the back and a canoe on the roof, then this is the car for you.

BMW Z4 2.5 si Roadster

Mileage: 3563km

Year: 2009

Cost: R529 000

The BMW has the prestigious honour of being the cheapest car on this list, at just over half a million, ‘cheap’ is a relative term. When looking at used cars valued at over R500 000 you would probably expect to find a list of supercars, but the BMW Z4 hardtop holds a special place in my heart. I’m not sure what it is, but I just really like it, which is strange because I don’t like the convertible soft top at all. I can’t actually imagine why anyone would buy the convertible version over the hardtop, my imagination apparently stops before the ‘wanting to drive with the top down’ part.

At a paltry 3563km this car is practically new but you will be saving around R70k on a brand new version which definitely seems worth it. You won’t be able to fit your canoe on the roof, like the Hummer, but you will have a lot more speed and with almost no seating at all, you will at least never be asked to pick up kids from school.

Lamborghini Gallardo

Mileage: 20 201km

Year: 2006

Cost: R2 500 000

I think it’s only fair that in an article of this nature I include at least one car that for all intents and purposes has no intents and purposes and exists purely as a sick joke. You could never logically justify purchasing this car and assuming you can afford to buy one; you won’t need to ever justify it. By simply owning this car you automatically win every argument, become the sexiest person on earth and are the best friend ever to anyone you take for a drive in it. That right there is probably justification for the price, in fact when you look at it like that, it’s actually quite cheap.

Volvo Cars tests new, unique safety technology in Copenhagen - in a disguised S60 prototype

Recently, sharp-eyed citizens in Copenhagen have had the opportunity to get a sneak preview of the upcoming, sporty Volvo S60 - which won't be introduced to the world until next year.

A disguised prototype of the new sedan model has been rolling through the streets of the Danish capital in order to test a groundbreaking new safety technology that can detect a pedestrian in front of the car and brake automatically if the driver doesn't react in time, to avoid an accident.

The new technology - Collision Warning with Full Auto Brake and Pedestrian Detection - will be introduced together with the all-new Volvo S60 in 2010. Volvo Cars' safety experts have been working with Pedestrian Detection technology for ten years and test cars have been rolling all over the world - most recently in the busy streets of Copenhagen.

"Factors like traffic behaviour, road conditions and climate must be taken into account in the design of the final system. All told we have collected more than 500,000 kilometres of real-life data. We can also use the information from these traffic tests to conduct advanced computer simulations," says Thomas Broberg, Senior Safety Advisor at Volvo Cars.

Recently, sharp-eyed citizens in Copenhagen have had the opportunity to get a sneak preview of the upcoming, sporty Volvo S60 - which won't be introduced to the world until next year.

A disguised prototype of the new sedan model has been rolling through the streets of the Danish capital in order to test a groundbreaking new safety technology that can detect a pedestrian in front of the car and brake automatically if the driver doesn't react in time, to avoid an accident.

The new technology - Collision Warning with Full Auto Brake and Pedestrian Detection - will be introduced together with the all-new Volvo S60 in 2010. Volvo Cars' safety experts have been working with Pedestrian Detection technology for ten years and test cars have been rolling all over the world - most recently in the busy streets of Copenhagen.

"Factors like traffic behaviour, road conditions and climate must be taken into account in the design of the final system. All told we have collected more than 500,000 kilometres of real-life data. We can also use the information from these traffic tests to conduct advanced computer simulations," says Thomas Broberg, Senior Safety Advisor at Volvo Cars.

First a warning, then automatic braking

Collision Warning with Full Auto Brake and Pedestrian Safety consists of a new dual-mode radar unit integrated into the car's grille, a camera behind the inside rear-view mirror and a central control unit. The radar and camera continuously monitor the road in front of the car. The radar's task is to detect objects and measure the distance to them. The camera determines what type of objects they are.

In an emergency situation, the driver is first alerted by an audible warning together with a flashing light in the windscreen's head-up display. In order to prompt an immediate, intuitive reaction, the visual warning is designed to look like a brake light coming on. If the driver does not respond to the warning and the system assesses that a collision is imminent, the car's brakes are applied with full braking power.

"Active brake deployment requires that the object is confirmed by both the radar and the camera. Thanks to state-of-the-art sensor technology, it is now possible to engage full braking power," explains Thomas Broberg.

Source: Volvo

Progress Through Efficiency : The New Way Forward

First in the premium segment in SA: Audi of South Africa introduces start/stop models at no extra cost.

Audi is synonymous with being the leader in progressive technology and pioneering new innovations. The 21st century brings in a new era of challenges, predominantly the challenge to become more environmentally conscious and reduce CO2 emissions. One of our most important tasks in the future is to increase efficiency even further.

Energy management also offers huge potential for efficiency – for the air conditioning system, for example, energy recovery and termo management. The intelligent assistance systems such as the on-board computer with efficiency program also offer valuable support to the driver.

Last but not least, the new Start/Stop system which switches off the engine when the vehicle is stationery is now being introduced locally by Audi in a number of its models – a first for the South African premium segment.

2009 also saw Audi South Africa making significant strides by further enhancing the efficiency of the Audi models. This is clearly highlighted by the transition to Euro 4 & 5 emission levels of all cars in May.

THE START/STOP SYSTEM

The Start/stop system helps to save fuel and and reduce CO2 emissions, and realises its efficiency potential in urban traffic especially.

Energy management also offers huge potential for efficiency – for the air conditioning system, for example, energy recovery and termo management. The intelligent assistance systems such as the on-board computer with efficiency program also offer valuable support to the driver.

Last but not least, the new Start/Stop system which switches off the engine when the vehicle is stationery is now being introduced locally by Audi in a number of its models – a first for the South African premium segment.

2009 also saw Audi South Africa making significant strides by further enhancing the efficiency of the Audi models. This is clearly highlighted by the transition to Euro 4 & 5 emission levels of all cars in May.

The Start/Stop system

The Start/stop system helps to save fuel and and reduce CO2 emissions, and realises its efficiency potential in urban traffic especially.

Simply put, the engine switches off automatically when you stop the car at, for example, a traffic light …and starts up again automatically when you are ready to drive off.

When the vehicle stops, the engine is switched off. The vehicle’s electrical system is supplied with electricity from rapid power storage devices called supercaps. As soon as the driver presses down the clutch, the engine is started. By the time the clutch pedal is released, the engine has reached idling speed.

An intelligent engine management system ensures short engine starting times and eliminates all negative effects of switching off and starting the engine with regards to exhaust emissions.

Source: Audi

Quality used cars for under R30k

With the recession under way and everyone feeling the economic strain, the popularity of used cars has increased greatly as most people can no longer afford to buy a new car. Consequently there is also a big demand for cars under the R30k price bracket and even at such a low price, quality vehicles can still be found.

The obvious factors to note when looking for a used car are: mileage, condition and year. These factors are somewhat more important though when looking for a car this cheap as you want to avoid being sold a dud.

Cars.co.za lists a number of cars in this bracket and they can be searched for by entering the maximum amount as R30k and pressing “Go” or clicking here to see cheap vehicles under R30k. There are many vehicles listed, but I have pointed out a few that come across as good deals.

Volkswagen Citi Chico 1.3



Mileage: 118 985km

Age: 1998

Cost: R26 000

The ever popular small VW car has been a hit in South Africa for the last 30 years at least. So many people start off with one of these as their first car, and they never seem to go out of fashion. They also don’t seem to lose much resale value at all, people tend to buy one second hand, drive it for a few years and then sell it again for much the same that they paid for it. This Chico has a rather small number of Kilometers on the clock considering its age and price which definitely bodes well for it. There doesn’t seem to be a used car that is more of a staple than the Volkswagen range of small cars.

Ford Lazer Tracer 1.3



Mileage: 192 000km

Age: 1998

Cost: R23 995

While not as popular as the Volkswagen range of small used cars, the ford Lazers and Mazda 323’s are still always seen on used car sales everywhere. While the Ford does have an extra 80 000km on the clock compared to the Chico it is slightly cheaper. I have first hand experience driving a Lazer 1.3 with this many kilometers on the clock and it seems as reliable as ever. It still feels quick enough and has never broken down, attesting to Ford’s long standing reliability.

BMW 3 Series 316i



Mileage: 177 562km

Age: 1996

Cost: R25 000

Unlike the previous two entries, it is rare to find a BMW in the less than R30k bracket. The BMW offers a lot more style and looks than any other car you are likely to find in such a cheap bracket. It is also obviously a lot bigger and will have more utility, however its probably not as well suited as the other two smaller cars as a first car. It won’t be as forgiving, and could be more expensive to run. That said though it is not a common occurrence to find a car like this for so cheap and would be hard to pass up.