Motoring News - Latest CAR News Updates | CAR Magazine https://www.carmag.co.za/news/ South Africa - Car Reviews | Car Road Tests Wed, 29 Jan 2025 08:48:55 +0000 en-US hourly 1 Volvo EX90 Arrival in SA Confirmed for 2025 https://www.carmag.co.za/news/new-models/volvo-ex90-arrival-in-sa-confirmed-for-2025/ Wed, 29 Jan 2025 08:05:51 +0000 https://www.carmag.co.za/?p=999635696 Volvo has confirmed its local lineup will be expanded by the plush EX90 in the first half of 2025. Here are some details on the all-electric model including a claimed maximum range of 751 km!

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Volvo Cars South Africa has confirmed the arrival of its flagship electric SUV, the EX90, in the first half of 2025.  

EX90

Image: Volvo

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Sizable in all regards, the people mover is built on Volvo’s SPA2 platform and will join the brand’s expanding electric vehicle portfolio, which includes the EX30, C40 Recharge, and XC40 Recharge. While the entry-level version offers 300 kW and 770 N.m, capable of a 0-100 km/h sprint in 5.9 seconds, the Twin Motor Performance variant delivers a potent 380 kW and 910 N.m of torque, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds.

Related: Review: Volvo EX90 Twin Motor Performance

In terms of safety, this eagerly awaited vehicle features an innovative “invisible safety shield” that integrates advanced sensors like cameras, radars, and LiDAR to provide enhanced protection for occupants and other road users.

“The EX90 has garnered significant international acclaim, and we are delighted to introduce it to the South African market,” stated Felipe Yagi, Head of Marketing & Communications at Volvo Car South Africa. “With its cutting-edge safety features and luxurious interior, the EX90 embodies the essence of a flagship Volvo, redefining the concept of electrified luxury.”

Addressing range anxiety, the EX90 offers an impressive 751 km of range in urban driving conditions and 604 km on the combined cycle on a single charge. Its 111 kWh battery can be rapidly charged from 10% to 80% in just 30 minutes using a 250 kW DC fast charger. The Swedish automaker provides a diverse range of electrified options, including battery-electric vehicles (BEVs), plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), and mild hybrids. By 2030, Volvo aims for electric vehicles, encompassing BEVs and PHEVs, to constitute 90-100% of its global sales.

Local pricing and specifications for the EX90 lineup will be unveiled closer to the South African launch later this year.

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Audi’s Q6 E-Tron Sportback Concept is Capable of a Whopping 13 400 N.m https://www.carmag.co.za/z-test-new/audis-q6-e-tron-sportback-concept-is-capable-of-a-whopping-13-400-n-m/ Tue, 28 Jan 2025 12:30:57 +0000 https://www.carmag.co.za/?p=999635671 Wearing portal axles and a suspension raise, the potent Q6 E-Tron Sportback is a taste of Audi's all-electric capabilities.

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Audi has just whipped the covers off of the Q6 E-Tron Offroad concept which hints at the German automaker’s vision for a capable electric off-road vehicle. Not likely to see production wearing all of this kit, it still remains a cool vision of what is possible. 

Q6 e-tron

Image: Audi

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Debuting on Audi’s social media channels, the automaker has now released some more concrete information on what is available with the high-riding all-electric bakkie. Likely serving as a concept to gauge customer interest in a potential production version, much of the exterior borrows styling cues from the Q6 Sportback e-tron.

That said, it bears much of the styling prominent on the Sportback up front but with off-roading in mind, it features significantly widened wheel arches that accommodate dark alloy wheels equipped with chunky off-road tyres. Under the ‘bonnet’, the Q6 e-tron concept boasts dual electric motors that deliver a combined output of 380 kW, matching the SQ6 e-tron in Boost mode. However, the most obvious changes are the aggressive modifications that make this seem like a viable choice for venturing off of the beaten path. Equipped with portal axles, the Q6 E-Tron Sportback now comes with a significant 160 mm increase in ride height and a 250 mm wider track.

“The debuting Q6 gives a taste of a potential vehicle in the progressive off-road segment,” said Audi, suggesting plans to incorporate more rugged capabilities into its electric vehicle lineup. “We look forward to seeing our customers’ reactions to this highly emotive car,” commented CEO Gernot Dollner.

Image: Audi

Related: Review: Audi Q7 55 TFSI Black Edition

Unlike conventional setups, the Q6 e-tron’s portal axles integrate directly into the wheel hubs, necessitating a redesigned suspension system by Audi. This configuration translates to a whopping total wheel torque of 13 400 N.m, a substantial 4 400 N.m increase over traditional axles. This figure is available in short 10-second bursts but it is worth noting that this value reflects the torque delivered to the wheels after multiplication by the portal axles’ gear ratios, not the raw output of the electric motors themselves.

Q6 e-tron

Image: Audi

Audi explains that while traditional portal axles typically provide a 20-30% increase in wheel torque, their design offers a significant 50% boost. This capability comes at the expense of a slightly reduced top speed of 175 km/h, which when considering its pioneering purpose is a more than acceptable trade-off. In exchange for the reduced speed, the Q6 e-tron concept can tackle gradients of up to 45 degrees.

Whether this will ever make it into production is unknown and unlikely, but it provides a glimpse into Audi’s electric future and how its technology can be implemented for off-roading.

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New Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Arrives in SA – Pricing and Specs https://www.carmag.co.za/news/new-models/new-mitsubishi-outlander-sport-arrives-in-sa-pricing-and-specs/ Tue, 28 Jan 2025 09:15:18 +0000 https://www.carmag.co.za/?p=999635661 Mitsubishi Motors South Africa has launched the all-new Outlander Sport, a stylish and capable compact SUV that promises to deliver on both design and performance. Here's all you need to know about the model...

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Mitsubishi Motors South Africa has launched the all-new Outlander Sport which will serve a stylish and capable compact SUV in the Japanese automaker’s portfolio. We have all the information for locally bound iterations below. 

Outlander

Image: Mitsubishi

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Starting on the outside, the Outlander Sport owes its provenance to Mitsubishi’s “Silky & Solid” concept and is said to feature a sporty exterior that retains the traditional SUV aesthetic. The front grille is three-dimensional, flanked by bold LED daytime running lights making the Mitsubishi instantly recognizable and shying away from the cookie cutter of SUV styling. The rear taillights also adopt the same T-shape from the front.

Outlander

Image: Mitsubishi

Inside, the instrument panel is designed for optimal forward visibility, allowing drivers to easily navigate challenging terrain. A large display panel integrates a 12.3-inch Smartphone-link Display Audio system with a multi-widget function that can display various information on a single screen. GL and GLS models come with an 8-inch version of this system.  The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Exceed boasts a class-leading sound system co-developed with Yamaha Corporation. The system includes eight speakers, with front tweeters on the A-pillars, woofers in the front doors, and coaxial two-way speakers in the rear doors.

Under the bonnet, the Outlander Sport is powered by a 1.5-litre DOHC 16-valve MIVEC engine offering 77 kW @ 6 000 r/min and 141 N.m @ 4 000 r/min. Mitsubishi highlighted that this engine is paired with a high-efficiency CVT for low fuel consumption and a quiet ride. No confirmed data on the fuel consumption is available for the local market however abroad, the Outlander Sport manages 7.8 L/100 km in a combined cycle which should make it competitive if this is attainable in the real world.

Pricing:

  • Outlander Sport 1.5 GL CVT – R429 990
  • Outlander Sport 1.5 GLS CVT – R449 990
  • Outlander Sport 1.5 Aspire CVT – R479 990
  • Outlander Sport 1.5 Exceed CVT – R499 990

The Outlander Sport is offered as a two-wheel drive but leverages Mitsubishi’s expertise in off-road driving. Four drive modes, including Normal, Wet, Gravel, and Mud, allow the vehicle to handle various road conditions. The integration of Active Yaw Control adjusts drive between the wheels to improve controllability, traction control, engine control, and power steering control.

Image: Mitsubishi

The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport rides on MacPherson strut suspension up front and a torsion beam set up at the rear, with disc brakes all around. The suspension has been specifically developed for comfortable handling on various terrains. With a ground clearance of 222 mm, the Outlander Sport can confidently traverse even the roughest roads. Approach and departure angles of 21.0 degrees and 30.5 degrees further enhance its off-road capability.

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Festive Season Road Fatalities Increase for the First Time in 3 Years https://www.carmag.co.za/news/festive-season-road-fatalities-increase-for-the-first-time-in-3-years/ Tue, 28 Jan 2025 08:55:17 +0000 https://www.carmag.co.za/?p=999635624 Over the festive season, the fatality rate on roads increased by more than 5% while just under 10 000 arrests were made for drinking and driving.

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South Africa’s festive season road fatality rate has seen a worrying increase for the first time in three years. The rate jumped by 5.3%, translating to an additional 75 lives lost over the period.

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South Africa boasts infamous road fatality statistics, but the past few years following th COVID-19 pandemic have yielded a slight decline to the mean annual loss of live. The 2024/2025 festive season seemed to revert to standard with the fatality rate higher than it has been for the first time in three years.

Eugene Herbert, CEO of MasterDrive, expressed the gravity of the situation, emphasizing that these fatalities are more than just statistics. “The 1 502 lives lost are parents, children, siblings, friends, colleagues; human beings that leave a huge void behind,” he said. He likened the number of fatalities to more than three Boeing 747 aeroplanes or four times the number of people killed in the KwaZulu Natal floods, highlighting the immense impact.

Related: Safety tips for travelers this festive season from the AA

Transport Minister Barbara Creecy pointed to specific causes such as jaywalking, fatigue, loss of vehicle control, speeding, drunk driving and dangerous overtaking or simply reckless driving. Despite extensive efforts to promote safe behaviour, Creecy remarked that “drivers and pedestrians continue to act with little concern for life.”

The ineffectiveness of current methods raises questions about the need for a new approach. “Most people know drinking and driving is illegal, high-risk, and often results in tragedy,” said Herbert. “Yet, during the 2024/25 festive season, 9 950 drivers were arrested for drinking and driving – this does not even account for those that escaped detection.”

These statistics highlight the urgent need for a more comprehensive strategy to address South Africa’s festive season road fatality crisis. Existing efforts clearly require significant reinforcement to ensure safer roads for everyone.

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Five Key Takeaways for SA at Toyota’s SOMI Conference https://www.carmag.co.za/news/industry-news/five-key-takeaways-for-sa-at-toyotas-somi-conference/ Tue, 28 Jan 2025 06:10:35 +0000 https://www.carmag.co.za/?p=999635564 Toyota had some interesting insights from its 2025 SOMI conference - here are some key takeaways from what was noticed throughout 2024.

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Not just reserved for unveiling the new models anticipated to hit the local market in the year, Toyota’s SOMI also provided some valuable insight for the South African motoring sphere.

Image: Toyota

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Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) once again used its annual State of the Motor Industry (SOMI) event as a platform to provide insights into the continually evolving automotive landscape. The event featured key presentations from TSAM’s President and CEO, Andrew Kirby, and Senior Vice President for Sales and Marketing, Leon Theron.

Related: Toyota Confirms Four Refreshed Models for SA at SOMI

In his presentation, Kirby shared a few industry-related trends being noticed:

  1. Consumers are increasingly opting for smaller, more affordable vehicles, as evidenced by a shift from C- and D-segment cars to the B-segment. Data from Lightstone Auto reveals that the average selling price of passenger vehicles declined by 2.27% in 2024, reinforcing this trend.
  2. The SUV and crossover segment continues to expand. In 2018, 114 model ranges fell into this category; by 2024, that number had grown to 166, with SUVs now accounting for more than half of all passenger vehicle sales.
  3. Modern consumers expect a more immersive driving experience. Features like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard, even in entry-level models such as the Toyota Starlet Cross. Personalisation, connectivity, and intuitive user interfaces—such as those found in the Lexus RX—are becoming industry norms.
  4. South Africa is increasingly sourcing vehicles from India and China. Kirby noted a significant shift in global production, with China’s market share growing from 29% in 2018 to 32% in 2023. Meanwhile, German manufacturing has slipped from the top five globally. Locally produced vehicle sales have also declined, from 46% in 2018 to 43% in 2023, while imports from India and China have surged from 18% to 37% in the same period.
  5. Kirby and expert panellist Greg Cress highlighted the rapid adoption of NEVs. While globally, one in five cars sold is an EV, South Africa has lagged behind. However, the Corolla Cross Hybrid’s success—jumping from 4 000 units in 2022 to an expected 12 500 in 2024—signals a shift. Cress predicted that without BEV incentives, mass adoption (5% of the total) would occur only by 2032, whereas with proper incentives, this milestone could be reached by 2029.

Related: Toyota Warns Subsidised Chinese Imports Could Further De-Industrialise SA

More importantly, Kirby added that the South African auto sector needs to strive to sell more than 600 000 new vehicles throughout the year which will help place the country in a more favourable position for foreign investment. The market has still not yet recovered from pre-COVID-19 pandemic levels but panellists including Mikel Mabasa from Naamsa were encouraged by an upswing in consumer sentiment following the formulation of the GNU.

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Finalists Announced for SA COTY Competition https://www.carmag.co.za/news/finalists-announced-for-sa-coty-competition/ Mon, 27 Jan 2025 13:55:49 +0000 https://www.carmag.co.za/?p=999635610 The 39th annual South African Car of the Year (COTY) competition has been narrowed down to 17 finalists. Here are the vehicles in for a shout!

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The 2025 Car of the Year (COTY) competition has been narrowed down to 17 finalists. Have a look at what the local competition still has in contention. 

COTY

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The local SA Car of the Year competition has moved forward with a set of finalists being chosen by a panel of automotive-affiliated individuals. Next up, a three-day evaluation period in Johannesburg will assess their performance across various criteria, culminating in testing at Zwartkops Raceway just outside of Pretoria.

This year, the competition states it has evolved, incorporating a more comprehensive scoring system. Jury evaluations will be combined with data from Lightstone Auto, utilizing automated scoring based on market segment sales volumes and spec-adjusted competitor pricing. This integrated approach provides a more holistic assessment, reflecting both professional opinion and real-world market dynamics.

Furthermore, the introduction of multiple categories alongside the overall winner are stated to ensure relevance for new car buyers. The 2025 COTY will feature battles in various segments, including the performance category featuring the BMW M5, Ford Mustang, and Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance. In the bakkie category, the newly launched Mitsubishi Triton and the GWM P 500 HEV, the first hybrid bakkie to reach the COTY finals, will challenge the reigning champion, the Ford Ranger. The luxury sedan category will see a resurgence of the classic rivalry between the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.   

Related: 2023 COTY semi-finalists revealed ahead of final culling

The 2025 SA Car of the Year Finalists are

  1. BMW 5 Series Sedan
  2. BMW M5
  3. BMW X3
  4. Ford Mustang GT
  5. GAC GS3 EMZOOM
  6. GWM P500 HEV
  7. Jaecoo J7
  8. Mahindra XUV 3XO
  9. Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance
  10. Mercedes-Benz E-Class (E 220d)
  11. Mini Countryman
  12. Mitsubishi Triton
  13. Omoda C9
  14. Suzuki Swift
  15. Toyota Land Cruiser Prado
  16. Volkswagen Tiguan
  17. Volvo EX30

The competition adds that sustainability is also a key focus, with four new-energy vehicles among the finalists. The BMW M5, Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance and Volvo EX30, the sole full electric vehicle in the competition, represent the growing importance of electrified mobility.   

In for a new generation, the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado hopes to add to its impressive legacy with a fourth COTY victory. Meanwhile, the globally acclaimed Suzuki Swift, a finalist for the 2025 World Car of the Year is back for another go at the title. While the remaining round of the competition unfolds, be sure to also find the CAR Magazine Top 12 Best Buys awards in the forthcoming April issue. 

Click here and browse thousands of new and used vehicles here with CARmag!

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Toyota Warns Subsidised Chinese Imports Could Further De-Industrialise SA https://www.carmag.co.za/news/industry-news/toyota-warns-subsidised-chinese-imports-could-further-de-industrialise-sa/ Mon, 27 Jan 2025 11:15:30 +0000 https://www.carmag.co.za/?p=999635563 With the figure now below 40% for domestically manufactured vehicles, Toyota head honcho Andrew Kirby shares his concern that subsidised Chinese imports will further de-industrialise South Africa. Read more here but how do you think the local automotive manufacturing space can be better protected?

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In an ever-competitive local automotive landscape, Toyota, with its Durban manufacturing hub in mind, warned against the dangers of accepting subsidised Chinese imports openly. 

Image: Toyota

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Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) once again used its annual State of the Motor Industry (SOMI) event as a platform to provide insights into the continually evolving automotive landscape. The event featured key presentations from TSAM’s President and CEO, Andrew Kirby, and Senior Vice President for Sales and Marketing, Leon Theron, alongside special guest Rory Reid from the UK.

In his keynote address titled “The Year That Was”, Kirby delved into the challenges facing the South African motor industry, emphasizing the need to push annual vehicle sales beyond the 600 000-unit threshold. As it stands, the South African market has not yet increased to sales figures from pre-COVID-19 and has been hovering under the 550 000 mark for some time. Achieving this, he argued, would create the scale required to attract further foreign direct investment.

Related: Did Red Bull Miss Out On Something By Signing Lawson?

While the South African government’s recent policy to incentivise battery electric vehicle (BEV) production is a step forward, Kirby cautioned that more substantial support is needed to safeguard the country’s automotive production sector. The ongoing trend of de-industrialisation and a decline in local content—now below 40% for domestically manufactured vehicles—only adds to these concerns.

Related: Toyota Confirms Four Refreshed Models for SA at SOMI

Kirby remained cautiously optimistic in his sales forecast of 535 000 units for 2025—a 3.7% increase on 2024 figures—though he humorously suggested that he might need to “put a more positive spin on the numbers.” However, he reiterated that any meaningful growth would depend on continued interest rate cuts and fuel price stabilisation.

While the automotive landscape globally and locally is ever-evolving, one of the key concerns mentioned by Kirby that was further extrapolated was the general acceptance of subsided Chinese imports to South Africa. Kirby added that there is an increase in sourcing vehicles from India and China and there has been a significant shift in global production, with China’s market share growing from 29% in 2018 to 32% in 2023. In a private discussion with Kirby, the Toyota head honcho encouraged the competition, considering the end consumer benefits but warned that it could have a significant toll on South Africa’s employment sector and GDP.

During the presentation, other key stats show that German manufacturing has slipped from the top five globally while locally produced vehicle sales have also declined, from 46% in 2018 to 43% in 2023. At the same time, imports from India and China have surged from 18% to 37% in the same period. Not to be confused with adding more stringent import tariffs on the subsidised products entering our market from abroad, Kirby added some legislation should be considered to ensure a fair market for all competing.

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New Land Cruiser Prado Goes Widebody With Arctic Trucks Treatment https://www.carmag.co.za/news/new-models/new-land-cruiser-prado-goes-widebody-with-arctic-trucks-treatment/ Mon, 27 Jan 2025 09:45:45 +0000 https://www.carmag.co.za/?p=999635589 The Land Cruiser Prado has been given Arctic Trucks treatment resulting in an even more purpose-built off-roader! The European company says it will be available in the African market too!

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Continuing a long lineage of revered off-roaders, the Land Cruiser Prado has now received upgrades courtesy of Arctic Trucks. The result is the AT37! 

AT37

Image: Arctic Trucks

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As Arctic Trucks UK Managing Director, Peter Smith, aptly states, “This collaboration of teams across the Arctic Trucks group has resulted in a vehicle that is truly fit for use in any market. Combining our three decades of off-road expertise with technology and innovation from the UK supply chain has achieved outstanding results and reaffirms our ongoing commitment to delivering complete vehicle solutions for both work and play.”

Discretion is key in the AT37’s design. The widebody kit, comprising 10 individual components, subtly enhances the Prado’s presence with new bumpers, extended fenders, and aluminium side steps. Mudguards and a discreetly integrated receiver hitch complete the off-road-ready exterior.

AT37

Image: Arctic Trucks

But it’s what lies beneath that truly sets the AT37 apart. A 40 mm lift, courtesy of a meticulously engineered two-way adjustable suspension system with revised springs, coilovers and dampers, provides unparalleled ground clearance. This robust foundation is further bolstered by 17-inch forged alloy wheels, boasting a dual-valve design for easy tyre pressure management. Clad in 37-inch BFGoodrich tyres, available in all-terrain or mud-terrain configurations.

Related: ROX Star – The Land Cruiser with a Big Difference

To accommodate these substantial tyres, Arctic Trucks undertook a comprehensive reengineering process. The Land Cruiser’s frame, body, and drivetrain were reprofiled, resulting in a wider track and an extended wheelbase achieved through a relocated rear axle. This extensive modification ensures optimal stability and performance even in the most demanding off-road conditions.

Inside, the AT37 receives Arctic Trucks-branded dash trim, sill plates, and premium floor mats adding a touch of exclusivity, while an upgraded shift lever comprises the upgrades.

AT37

Image: Arctic Trucks

While pricing details remain confidential, the Land Cruiser Prado AT37 is poised to make its mark. As an official Toyota partner in multiple regions, Arctic Trucks will launch the AT37 in Q2 2025, available as an official dealership-supplied version or through direct customer conversions in Europe, North America, the Middle East and Africa.

Not just a retrofitted project, Thomas Cogez, Toyota Sales and Marketing Director, emphasizes, “We are excited to announce our collaboration between CFAO Toyota and Arctic Trucks on this innovative new Land Cruiser Prado AT37. By combining Toyota’s world-renowned engineering excellence with Arctic Trucks’ expertise in creating extreme off-road vehicles, we aim to deliver a next-level driving experience that will redefine performance and durability in challenging African terrains.”

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MG Makes Bold Return to the South African Market https://www.carmag.co.za/news/industry-news/mg-makes-bold-return-to-the-south-african-market/ Mon, 27 Jan 2025 06:30:29 +0000 https://www.carmag.co.za/?p=999635573 MG made its official return to the South African market last week and plans on a 60-dealership-strong network by the close of 2025. With three models currently on offer, here is what else the Chinese-owned automaker plans in the near future.

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Last week, the familiar MG logo adorned a conference centre in Johannesburg, signalling the return of the British automaker to the local market. With three models arriving from the advent, here is what else the storied nameplate said they have in store for Mzansi.

Image: MG

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Following a dotted past in the country, the MG brand signalled its return to the market during a grand launch event in Johannesburg last week. The iconic MG octagon hasn’t changed, but the people who managed and controlled it have. Very shrewdly, the MG branding rights were purchased by SAIC Motor (Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation), a Chinese state-owned carmaker based in Shanghai and also the owner of new local entrant LDV (and Maxus). It is a continuation of the original MG marque that had Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China to the Republic of South Africa, Wu Peng in attendance. The diplomat expressed his appreciation for the brand’s arrival and highlighted the strengthening ties between the two nations.

Related: MG Announces SA Line-up — Pricing and Specs

Heading up the brand in South Africa is Sky Zhang, who stated: “I am thrilled about this new era for MG in South Africa” and also emphasised the brand’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge vehicles designed to surprise and delight customers. Zhang traced the marque’s history back to its British roots in 1920 and shared some nostalgic story on the pioneers that brought its first creations to life. William Morris, of Morris Garages (MG) quickly evolved the brand into one synonymous with performance but with Cecil Kimber as a guiding light, MG gained a reputation for producing faster, sportier vehicles, starting with the 14/28 Super Sports, which boasted a then-impressive top speed of 104.6 km/h.

Image: MG

Perhaps true to that original form, the SUV-heavy lineup is complimented by the Cyberster which serves as the world’s very first open-top all-electric coupe that delivers impressive performance figures. This was unveiled at the launch event with murmurs stating that more than a dozen have been delivered to local customers already but it was the two other SUVs which will likely serve as the bread and butter for MG’s initial model lineup for South Africa. On display was the long-in-the-tooth but affordable ZS compact crossover and the more contemporary and slightly larger HS SUV. The Chinese automaker hopes the three-model lineup will ruffle feathers in the local market and plans future releases, including several mystery models set to debut in the near future. These upcoming models are expected to expand MG’s footprint in the ever-crowded B-segment market, featuring a mix of internal combustion engine (ICE) and hybrid variants, as well as what they claim will be an affordable battery-electric vehicle (BEV) too.

Related: Review: MG HS

Like other brands that have come and gone before it, earning market trust will be MG’s most onerous challenge, then needing to overcome the sea of compelling products from other compatriot Chinese OEMs. On this, MG added that its new ownership is here and has the backing to win the market over. With SAIC at the helm of bringing the defunct MG back into global prominence since 2007, MG remarked that the OEM in China is ranked 84th on the Fortune Global 500 list, and boasts 332 affiliated companies, 207 000 global employees, and 5.02 million vehicle sales in 2023. MG alone contributed 840 000 global sales, with 88% occurring outside China.

Related: Review: MG ZS

Zhang reaffirmed MG’s strong commitment to South Africa, emphasizing the proactive approach taken to ensure a seamless ownership experience. A National Parts Distribution Centre in Isando, Kempton Park, is already operational, courtesy of SAIC’s global network. To further instil confidence in prospective buyers, MG is offering an industry-leading 7-year/200 000 km warranty (5 years/150 000 km with an additional introductory 2 years/50 000 km). A comprehensive service plan is also included, which MG hopes will be available from an initial 30 dealership locations now, but intends on having 60 by the end of 2025.

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Mustang Dark Horse Aero Bits Fine Tuned by Advanced Wind Tunnel https://www.carmag.co.za/news/mustang-dark-horse-aero-bits-fine-tuned-by-advanced-wind-tunnel/ Sat, 25 Jan 2025 08:00:31 +0000 https://www.carmag.co.za/?p=999635537 The Ford Mustang Dark Horse made extensive use of advanced wind tunnel technology with a vehicle-sized treadmill that allows it to slice through the air as efficiently as possible. 

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The Ford Mustang Dark Horse made extensive use of advanced wind tunnel technology with a vehicle-sized treadmill that allows it to slice through the air as efficiently as possible. 

Image: Ford

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This Rolling Road Wind Tunnel (RRWT) is capable of simulating wind and road conditions at speeds of up to 322 km/h, making it an essential tool for enhancing the efficiency and performance of Ford’s vehicle lineup, which includes electric, hybrid, and traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.

One of the standout advantages of the RRWT is its ability to deliver more precise data regarding both aerodynamic drag and downforce. These factors are crucial for optimizing vehicles for improved range and efficiency. Additionally, the RRWT enables extensive in-house testing that replicates real-world driving scenarios. This capability not only lowers design costs but also accelerates the overall development timeline.

John Toth, Ford’s North America Wind Tunnels Engineering Supervisor, emphasized this point, stating, “The closer we can get to reality in the lab, the better and faster we can create more energy-efficient vehicles with great on-road and track stability.” He highlighted the significance of testing vehicles with moving wheels and tyres to enhance aerodynamics, particularly for track-focused models like the Mustang Dark Horse, which must achieve a balance between aerodynamic drag and necessary downforce.

The Coyote V8 engine in the Dark Horse has been upgraded to deliver 334 kW, which is 6 kW more than the GT. Torque output remains the same, at 540 N.m, matching the GT. Power is routed solely to the rear wheels through a 10-speed automatic transmission.

Dark Horse

Image: Ford

The RRWT features a cutting-edge five-belt rolling road system that effectively simulates real-world drag in an aerodynamic environment. The impressive design allows Ford to bring the road to the vehicle rather than the other way around. Each wheel operates on its own dedicated belt, with a fifth central belt beneath the vehicle, streamlining the testing process. A crane mechanism enables the transition between the sophisticated five-belt and a simplified single-belt system, which can reach speeds of up to 322 km/h. This innovation opens new horizons for high-speed performance vehicle testing.

Related: Review: Ford Mustang Dark Horse

The Mustang Dark Horse is one of the first models benefiting from the capabilities of this state-of-the-art wind tunnel, as tailored aerodynamics play a vital role in vehicle development. For everyday passenger vehicles and trucks, the primary objective is to achieve low drag for enhanced efficiency. Conversely, the Mustang Dark Horse prioritizes track-ready performance, where aerodynamicists purposefully sacrifice low drag for increased downforce, which translates into improved grip and handling during cornering.

Significant upgrades to the Mustang Dark Horse include a reworked front bumper, a lower valence, an aerodynamic spoiler, and distinctive wheels. The front design has been meticulously refined to optimize airflow for engine cooling, brake efficiency, and air intake, all while minimizing front lift. Unique lower air spoilers and splitters allow the Mustang Dark Horse to be specifically tuned for enhanced downforce.

Dark Horse

Image: Ford

Jonathan Gesek, Program Aerodynamicist for the Mustang and Bronco, noted, “We spent approximately 250 hours in the wind tunnel developing the 2024 Ford Mustang, which includes Dark Horse.” He added, “The aerodynamics of Mustang Dark Horse, along with several other factors, have created the most track- and street-capable 5.0-litre Mustang to date.”

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