car & leisure issue 59
DESCRIPTION
SA's only complete motorised lifestyle magazineTRANSCRIPT
CAR LEISURESA’s only complete motorised lifestyle magazine
BUILT TO RULE THE ROAD
Launched Toyota PradoLaunched Nissan GT-RLaunched Range Rover SportTested Daihatsu Materia Turbo LTDTested Volkswagen CC V6Feature 2010 Car Of The Year
BMW X5M & X6M
Xtreme
&
ISSUE 59
2010 Yamaha YZ Range
MasterCraft X-14
Launched Yamaha FX Wave RunnerFeature Azimut 43S Tested Kawasaki ER-6F + Ninja 250R Tested Triumph BonnevilleTested Yamaha FZ6-RFeature Honda VFR1200F
R26.00 (Includes VAT)Other Countries R22.80 (Excl Tax)
Visit our websitewww.xmg.co.za
9 7 7 1 7 2 8 3 0 8 0 0 6 95
Get away to the seacountrymountainriverside.
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The adventure begins in a Triton. With its legendary 4X4 EasySelect system and rock-hard
RISE body, you can’t go wrong, no matter where you choose to go. Your hardest choice will
be whether to go for the Double Cab or the ClubCab. Visit your nearest dealer today and
test-drive the vehicle that was awarded “Best Pick-up Truck, Double Cab 4WD” and “Best
Realistic Fuel Economy Pick-up” at the Bangkok International Motor Show. And wherever you
go, please drive safely. To book, call 0800 133 355 or visit www.mitsubishi-motors.co.za
R_70097 (Triton Family)285x420.indd 1 2/24/09 10:25:41 AM
Get away to the seacountrymountainriverside.
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HA
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The adventure begins in a Triton. With its legendary 4X4 EasySelect system and rock-hard
RISE body, you can’t go wrong, no matter where you choose to go. Your hardest choice will
be whether to go for the Double Cab or the ClubCab. Visit your nearest dealer today and
test-drive the vehicle that was awarded “Best Pick-up Truck, Double Cab 4WD” and “Best
Realistic Fuel Economy Pick-up” at the Bangkok International Motor Show. And wherever you
go, please drive safely. To book, call 0800 133 355 or visit www.mitsubishi-motors.co.za
R_70097 (Triton Family)285x420.indd 1 2/24/09 10:25:41 AM
CONTENTSIssue 59 EDITORIAL
PublisherEwald van Zyl082 569 2318
EditorMark Jones
082 553 [email protected]
Deputy EditorReuben van Niekerk
082 837 [email protected]
Staff WriterJohan Keyter083 310 0936
Art & Graphic DesignLynne-Mari Vos082 592 8445
Photographywww.motorpics.co.za,www.quickpic.co.za,
Amoré Augustyn
MARKETING & ADVERTISING
Willem van der Merwe082 530 0917012 548 1505
SUBSCRIPTIONS
012 548 [email protected]
ACCOUNTS
Account ManagerLoune van Zyl083 273 5674
Published monthly byVan Zyl Publishers cc
PO Box 83775, Doornpoort, 0017Suite 2, Apple Leaf Office Park,Montana Street, Montana Park
Tel: 012 548 1505Fax: 086 672 7739
CopyrightOpinions expressed in articles, news and views or in advertise-ments appearing in Car & Leisure are those of the Author, ad-
vertiser and do not reflect those of this journal nor it’s publisher. The mention of specific companies, people, photos or products in articles or advertisements, does not imply that they are endorsed
by this publication.
Some manoeuvres are extreme and we do not recommend that you attempt any said manoeuvre as portrayed in this publication
without professional instruction. Car & Leisure cannot be held responsible for any injury, loss or damage of any kind whatsoever.
MOTORINGEditors NoteMotoring NewsMarine NewsMotorcycle News
LaunchedBMW X5 & X6 M Land Rover Discovery 4Toyota Land Cruiser PradoRenault Clio 1.6 & RSKia Sorento Mazda MX-5 Coupe Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Bentley Continental SuperSports Ford Everest Mercedes-Benz E63 AMGNissan Murano Mitsubishi Pajero Sport TestedDaihatsu Materia Turbo LTD Nissan 370Z Coupe Auto Volkswagen CC Suzuki Alto 1.0 GLS Range Rover Sport Supercharged
FeatureCar of the Year 2010 Toyota Conservation Outreach Hyundai H1
MARINELaunchedYamaha FX Waverunner
FeatureMarine Terms Azimut 43S Sea Ray 230 SundeckViking Velocity Swift Hitch
TestedMasterCraft X-14
MOTORCYCLES
Launched2010 Yamaha YZ Range Kawasaki ER-6F & Ninja 250RYamaha XT660Z Ténéré
TestedTriumph Bonneville
FeatureHonda VFR1200F
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2 ISSUE 59
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note
Probably one of the most iconic series of racing games ever made, the Need for Speed series is quite famous, even if you aren’t that big of a gamer.
And late 2009 saw the latest installment of the series, Need for Speed Shift, hit platforms worldwide. Shift moves the series back to its
original racing roots and away from the street racing and customization based games that dominated the series in recent years.
This means they have pursued a much more realism-based approach this time around as the game aims to put you in the seat of a pro-fessional racing driver.
So if you feel like powering around in some sportscars without paying or worrying about it when you slam them into a concrete bar-rier, Need for Speed Shift should give you one of the most real experiences outside of an F1 simulator.
Porsche recently put its new racehorse, the 911 GT3 RS through its paces at their test track in Stuttgart, Germany. Delivering even more engine power,
offering a lower weight and featuring shorter transmission ratios as well as body and sus-pension elements upgraded to an even higher standard, the new 911 GT3 RS is set to be the ultimate racing version of the ever-popular Porsche 911.
The heart of the new 911 GT3 RS, its power unit, is based on the engine already featured
in the 911 GT3. The RS now displaces 3.8 in-stead of 3.6 litres, delivering even more power than before.
To further improve its sporty behaviour, the new 911 GT3 RS will for the first time ever sport a purpose-built and specially set up PASM suspension, with wider track at the rear and front axle.
Accordingly, the body of the entire car is wider at the rear and the front through the use of additional wheel arch covers.
Need For Speed Shift
New 911 GT3 RS
MOTORINGnews
EDITORS
I know each year we all wake up on New Year’s Day full of optimism, and not too long thereafter we are drinking too much again and have broken our diet
at the same time too, but I truly believe that 2010 will be a good year.
On a very localised level, the mag you are reading right now has undergone a subtle re-fresh to coincide with me, Mark Jones, joining the team as Editor again. The news gets better as there have been some serious negotiations
going on behind the scenes by our Publisher, Ewald van Zyl, and I am proud to report that Xtreme Car & Leisure will be reaching a much bigger readership thanks to a ground breaking deal done with a prominent financial institution to distribute the magazine to their elite clients. So it is a big year for us!
And of course, who can forget that the Soccer World Cup will be kicking off around the coun-try in a few months time. The hope is that this massive event will spark further confidence in
our economy and result in a much needed up-swing in the car, marine and bike market. I am sure it will, but my opinion is that this will merely be the beginning of a long and slow recovery.
Be that as it may, going forward slowly is better than going nowhere, and you can be assured that the motorised lifestyle manufacturers will continue to bring new and exciting product to our shores, and we will be covering it all for you right here.
2010 A Big Year Ahead!
4 ISSUE 59
End of an Era - Last Merc SLRs Built
Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Lim-ited Edtion
A limited number of Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Limited Edition will be available exclusively to South African motorists from January 2010.
The C63 AMG Limited Edition boasts unique 19-inch alloy wheels and three special Designo paint colours, along with the AMG driver’s pack-age that sees an increased speed limit of 280 km/h from the 336 kW 6.3 litre V8 engine.
To easily identify this limited C63 AMG Limited Edition, each of the sixty-three units will be numbered “1 of 63”. This designation will ap-pear on the gearshift lever in the outline of the map of South Africa.
The recommended retail price of the C63 AMG Limited Edition is R930 000 and comes stan-dard with the MobiloDrive 120 maintenance plan - 120 000 km or 6 years - together with a 2 year full vehicle warranty.
The shroud of secrecy surrounding Alfa Romeo’s most highly anticipated new C-segment hatch has finally been lift-ed. It’s name? The Alfa Romeo Giuliet-
ta, possibly one of the most evocative names in motoring history.
The Giulietta has brand-new architecture, de-signed to meet the expectations of the most demanding customers in terms of road hold-ing, agility and safety. Its excellent dynamic performance and great comfort are the result of refined technical solutions implemented in
the suspensions, a next-generation steer-ing system, a rigid yet light structure made of aluminium and high-strength steel, and state-of-the-art manufacturing technolo-gies. The Alfa Romeo Giulietta guarantees top level performance and next-generation technology in terms of technical solutions, performance and environmental friendli-ness. For South Africa the line-up is still to be defined but the two most likely engines are the 126 kW Multiair and the 175 kW Multiair in Quadrifoglio Verde guise.
The last examples of the Mercedes-Benz SLR Stirling Moss are currently being built, bringing the active era of the SLR super sports car from Mer-
cedes-Benz and McLaren to an end.
This breathtaking, high-speed racer is a lim-ited edition of 75 examples, and is the final chapter in the modern SLR story. Overall 2000 SLR models have been produced – sub-stantially more than any other sports car in this elite category.
Mercedes-Benz has presented the most spec-tacular and uncompromising version of the reinterpreted 300 SLR as the last model in the SLR family - the SLR Stirling Moss. With neither a roof nor a windscreen to separate the driver and front passenger from nature, thus allowing them to enjoy sheer high-speed excitement with all the attributes of a speed-ster.
Further attributes of the new Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Stirling Moss include highly sophisticated technology and breathtaking design that provides a new take on the SLR legend. A V8 supercharged engine develop-ing 478 kW accelerates the SLR Stirling Moss from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 3.5 seconds, and is good for a top speed of 350 km/h – performance that no other standard-produc-tion car can match.
With the Amarok, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is now also entering the segment of mid-range pick-ups, representing an
annual market volume of two million vehicles worldwide.
The Amarok is not only the fourth model se-ries of the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles brand – Caddy, T5 and Crafter - it is also the first 1-tonne class pick-up to be developed in Germany.
For the powertrain, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has chosen two reliable, fuel-efficient and clean high-tech turbo-diesels for the pick-up’s market launch. The 120 kW strong 2.0 TDI with common rail injection has two-stage bi-turbo turbocharging, which generates a torque of 400 Nm at a low 1 500 rpm.
Another four-cylinder TDI with 90 kW will fol-low as a second engine variant late in 2010. It has a turbocharger with variable turbine geom-
etry and develops a maximum torque of 340 Nm from 2 000 rpm. Both engines are paired with a 6-speed manual transmission.
Alfa Romeo Giulietta is Coming Back to SA
MOTORINGnews
Volkswagen Amarok To Debut In SA
5 ISSUE 59
MARINEnews
Unveiling the 4300 Open
One Lifeboat = 370 People
Lifeboat and davit manufacturer Schat-Harding has delivered the world’s larg-est lifeboats, complete with unique davit systems, to the Royal Caribbean
International’s Oasis of the Seas.
The Oasis of the Seas is equipped with eighteen of Schat-Harding’s unique, 370-person CRV55 lifeboats and LS45 davit systems. The CRV55 has a catamaran hull, which provides excellent sea-keeping capability and manoeuvrability. The LS45 davit, meanwhile, is a completely new integrated system for cruise vessels. The lifeboats are lowered directly from the stowed position, so that no outswing is needed, and the entire boat is positioned outside the hull of
the ship. The CRV55 is of reinforced construc-tion and has a special “green sea” lashing sys-tem, making it secure in high waves.
The CRV55 boat is 16.7 m long and 5.6 m wide. Built from Fibreglass Reinforced Polyes-ter using a vacuum technique, the boat weighs 16 tons in its stowed condition and 44 tonnes when fully loaded. Two 70 hp diesel engines give the boat a speed of 6 knots, and the cata-maran hull and twin rudders provide excellent manoeuvrability.
Good news indeed, but it seems like we’re go-ing to be waving goodbye to the good old “full lifeboat” movie plot... finally.
When Welcome Radebe was intro-duced to Jet Ski racing back in 1998 he was just a shy young gardener, today however he is
one of South Africa’s most celebrated jet ski heroes.
And in December of 2009 he finally got the chance to realize one of his long-standing dreams of competing internationally when he headed off to Pattaya City (Thailand) with the rest of the team representing South Africa in the White Sand Beach Jet Ski King’s Cup 2009, basically the world cup of jet ski racing. This
invitational tournament has grown in popular-ity over the years and boasts the “who’s who” of jet ski racing who hail from all corners of the globe. The event ran over six days from the 1st to the 6th of December 2009 at the idyl-lic Jomtien Beach in Pattaya City and covered all skill levels from professional to amateur in both the ladies and men’s categories respec-tively. In the end Radebe finished in 14th place in his category (amateur ski), no mean feat considering it was his first international tour-nament and he was racing against some ex-tremely talented riders.
As the new flagship of the Tiara Yachts Open Series, the 4300 Open obvi-ously reflects its predecessors, the 4200 and 3900 Open, and also rep-
resents future generations of the line. With outstanding standard/optional features and equipment, the 4300 Open is equipped to be fish or cruise ready, or both. A serious deep-water performer, the 4300 gives a stable, secure platform to aggressively manage sea/weather conditions, with a hull design and matching power package providing optimum performance and handling. Below deck, the interior offers a large, spacious, comfortable living area, with U-shaped dinette/lounge, full galley, two private staterooms, and head with separate shower. Similar to the 3900 Open, the 4300 also features a large fore-deck skylight/hatch system that runs nearly full length below deck, flooding the interior with outside light.
Sneak previewed at the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show, the new Tiara Yachts 4300 Open is scheduled to debut live at the Miami Interna-tional Boat Show, February 11-15, 2010, with initial plans calling for an exclusive unveiling and christening. We will keep you informed as launch details are further developed.
In an announcement recently at the Paris Boat Show, MasterCraft expressed their delight at having been chosen as the of-ficial towboat of both the Water Ski and
Wakeboard World Championships.
MasterCraft have enjoyed a long and success-ful relationship with the International Water Ski and Wakeboard Federation (IWWF) hav-ing supported many previous events including the Wakeboard World Championships and also the World Cup, an invitational elite only series that has grown year on year and recently cel-ebrated its 29th stop in Putrajaya – Malaysia. MasterCraft’s Vice President of International Business – Ian Birdsall comments: “This six year agreement to partner the IWWF and Mas-terCraft in all world titled Wakeboard and Wa-ter Ski events is a tremendous opportunity to
continue the growth of these sports Worldwide. This long term commitment will make it pos-sible for Water Ski Federations, and competi-tive skiers and wakeboarders around the world to be confident in the knowledge that the most important and prestigious events will be pulled by the very best in towboat performance and technology. We will be producing “World Cham-pionship” editions.
Welcome To The Jungle
Water Ski and Wakeboard World Championships
6 ISSUE 59
JCR / Honda WINS SCORE Baja 1000
MOTORCYCLEnews
Morais and Emtek to race Aprilia V4 in 2010
Having won the 2008 South African Superbike championship on a Ka-wasaki, and then claimed both the Superbike and 600cc Supersport na-
tional titles for the same manufacturer in 2009, Sheridan Morais and the EmTek Racing team are moving to Aprilia for 2010. After seeing how well the Aprilia RSV4 performed in its first season in World Superbike we are also curious as to how well it would shape here.
Sheridan is looking forward to coming to grips with the Aprilia, “It’s beautiful, and it feels like a 125 to sit on,” he says. “In World Superbike and Superstock racing the guys are right there, so it’s definitely a contender.”
How does the multiple SA champ feel about going into uncharted territory on a motorcycle that is as yet unproven in South Africa? “My dad and I have raced many different bikes over the years, and we’ve usually got them up to speed ahead of everybody else. Chris always makes sure we get our bikes as early as pos-sible and by the time the season starts we’ve already had two months of flat-out testing.
The Aprilia RSV4 Factory arrives pretty close to race-ready so we don’t have to buy and set up new suspension. That’s a big plus.”
Andy Reid brought you Europe’s style icon, the Vespa, in 2003. He intro-duced the renowned Art Vespa com-petition in 2005. The three-wheeled
Fuocco arrived in 2008. And now, Reid con-tinues the innovation with the production of a stretch Vespa.
As if the Vespa didn’t already have a dozen sim-ilarities with luxury limousines - including sleek contours, superb finishes and the ability to turn heads - you can now take your friends along for the ride. Not into double dates? Here’s a list of uses you haven’t thought of for the stretch
Vespa, it’s a ‘sensible’ family car on two wheels and kids will look forward to going to school on this, you can play designated driver and still park outside the front door of the party, when you make new buddies, you can take them home with you, save money on fuel and you can do this all with simple twist and go automatic transmission.
You’d be surprised to discover that the stretch Vespa is even easier to manoeuvre than a standard two-wheeled scooter. And it includes a hi-tech four stroke engine and all-steel chassis.
This win marks the 13th SCORE Baja 1000 in a row for Honda, the 4th for Kendall Norman, the 2nd for Quinn Cody, the 1st for Timmy Weigand and
the 2nd in a row for Johnny Campbell’s newly formed JCR/Honda.
NBC shot a special on the race featuring the JCR/Honda team. Mark your calendars for the 2009 SCORE Baja 1000 air date of De-cember 19th on NBC at 2pm. The team raced on an Eric Siraton prepped Honda CRF450X. The course was a brutal 1076.56 km loop of the toughest trails in Baja and the JCR/Honda team averaged 79.9 km/h, the fast-est of all competitors finishing in 13:27.50. The JCR/Honda B team of Brent Harden, Matt Eddy, Max Eddy and lead by Colton Udall was racing without a recently injured Jeff “OX” Kargola. Racing a Colton Udall prepped Honda CRF450X number 18X, and finishing in 14:10:10.
When Kendall Norman crossed the finish line he knew he had just lead his team to the Baja 1000 victory. He celebrated with a massive burnout that ignited thousands of spectators surrounding the finish of the 42nd annual SCORE Baja 1000. Thus kicking off a party of flash bulbs and congratulations that lasted until early the next morning with the team celebrating the accomplishment of winning in Baja, a feeling very few will ever know.T
he ParkinGo European Series (origi-nally named the ParkinGo World Series Trophy) will run at seven WSBK rounds in 2010, each featuring a grid of up to
24 riders on the Triumph Street Triple 675R.
The series, is organised by the Oasi Handling Group which owns the title sponsor ParkinGo. The airport car park network is also the title sponsor of the ParkinGo Triumph BE1 World Supersport team which competes with the Daytona 675, so it’s no surprise Triumph was selected as the supplier for the new series. The series is open to riders with a European Motor-cycle Union license, but limited to six riders per country. The winner of the ParkinGo European Series may be offered a wild card entry at the 2010 World Supersport season finale. “I think
the ParkinGO Series is a brilliant idea and gives the opportunity to anybody that loves Motor-sport to be part of it,” says Garry McCoy who races for BE1. “I have heard a lot of people saying how much they would like to be us, well now they have the chance to be themselves in the same involvement of the top riders.”
Vespa Stretching Your Imagination
New Single-Spec WSBK Support Series
8 ISSUE 59
I was at a dinner in Spain a few years ago at the international launch of the M6 when the boss of BMW’s M Division said that there will never be a turbocharged or an all wheel drive M car. I guess it’s true when they say that you should never say never.
Made In The USA To Rule The Road
LaunchedBMW X5 & X6 M
Because here I am about to tell you
all about my drive in the new all
wheel drive turbocharged X5 and
X6 M models.
I have got to say right up front that I have
always thought that the X6 is quite a pointless
car and now as an M derivative, I think even
more so. But BMW have gone and produced a
very good car and created themselves a new
segment called the Sports Activity Coupe cat-
egory at the same time.
They are unchallenged here mostly because
nobody else plays here, and to be honest, as
pointless as it is, the X6 M can’t be touched
by anything that is remotely in the same
category.
I will get into the dynamics and the power-
plant and what that does in a few moments,
but make no mistake though, there are a few
flaws on these R1 000 000 plus packages that
actually ruin the high speed driving experience
out on the road.
The first and most notable issue I found was
that the Servotronic steering was constantly
second guessing the input from the driver and
the faster I went, the worse it became. Keep-
ing the car in a straight and smooth line was
impossible. It is as if there were imaginary
ruts in the road that the car kept wanting to
follow.
I got to say though, on the track where the
tar was indeed very smooth, the problem was
nowhere near as apparent and both these big
heavy machines turned in as good as can be
expected and far better than any other SUV or
SAC or whatever you want to call them could
ever hope to.
The other issue was that there was an exces-
sive amount of wind noise around the A Pil-
lar and mirror area and this intruded into the
cabin quite a bit. More so than I found on other
high end SUVs like the Audi Q7 V12 and Range
Rover Supercharged Sport.
For me that was the end of the problems,
thereafter it was a case of revelling in the M
power baby! And for this you have a twin turbo
4.4 litre V8 doing the business. And not just
any old engine either, these M machines boasts
a world first with a common exhaust emission
manifold joining both rows of cylinders as well
as twin scroll twin turbo technology.
This in turn is good for a massive 408 kW of
power and 680 Nm of torque, which is claimed
to get these vehicles to 100 km/h in a mere
11 ISSUE 59
4.7 seconds and along to a limited top speed
of 250 km/h not all that much later. There is
an option to raise this limit to 275 km/h with
an optional M Driver’s Package in Europe, but
at this stage there is no confirmation that this
will be available in SA.
Both are also said to offer by far the highest
level of efficiency in their respective segments
due to them not only running high precision
injection but also technologies such as Brake
Energy Regeneration as well as on-demand
control of the electrical fuel pump, the detach-
able a/c compressor and the volume flow-con-
trolled supply of hydraulic fluid to the anti-roll
system.
In simpler terms though, fuel consumption
is claimed to be 14.3 litres / 100 kilometres,
but you will be very hard pressed to get this
number as the boost and the nature of these
beasts almost demands that you make liberal
use of the power on tap, and then you are go-
ing to pay for this privilege at the pumps to the
tune of around 20 litres / 100 kilometres.
Of course being an M car means that although
they come with a six-speed auto transmission,
it is an M Sports Automatic transmission that
not only allows traditional smooth auto shift-
ing, it also has a proper manual paddle shift
mode that sees the vehicles holding the gear
to the rev limiter, which in turn made the laps
around Aldo Scribante in Port Elizabeth excep-
tionally fun.
There is also a full Launch Control function
that makes these big machines jump off the
line in a sportscar humbling fashion.
I predict that when we run them against our
Racelogic VBOX test equipment they will re-
write the SUV record books.
There won’t be any smoking wheels either
thanks to BMW’s intelligent all-wheel drive
system that ensures variable distribution of
drive power front to rear along with dynamic
performance control that varies the distribu-
tion of power between the two rear wheels and
allows for phenomenal levels of grip.
Going along with the sporty theme you also
get M seats, an M leather steering wheel and
an M footrest, as well as the M-specific cockpit
including an instrument cluster with a variable
pre-warning field in the rev counter, specific
vehicle function displays, and white illumina-
tion of the display units and a Head-Up display
completing the package.
As to be expected, you also get an interior
and a level of spec that is top class and offers
everything you could want from electric seats
to even an optional towbar that includes an
electrically swivelling ball head.
In wrapping up, has BMW’s M foray into SUV
territory been totally successful? I don’t really
know, only time and future sales will tell.
But now at least you have an M to go play in
the bush with and then rip up the tar all within
the same package.
Pricing
BMW X5 M R1 225 000
BMW X6 M R1 260 000
Mark Jones
12 ISSUE 59
The Discovery can be described as
the ideal vehicle for many differ-
ent jobs. Workhorse, tow car, law
enforcer, status symbol, people car-
rier and bundu basher, the Discovery has risen
to all these tasks over the last twenty years,
earning itself iconic status as the ultimate all-
purpose vehicle.
The Discovery 3 was the model that helped
Land Rover remain at the top of the pile in
terms of SUV’s that can really go off-road. It
was a really good vehicle in all aspects and one
would have to be hard pressed to improve it,
but they did.
We always say it and they always manage to
pull it off. With the design of the Land Rover
Discovery 4, designers kept the sustainability,
premium feel and desirability of the model in
mind while still giving it a fresh new look and a
good dollop of new technology.
Discovery 4 inherits the clean lines of the pre-
vious generation, but now subtly updated and
given a more premium, more contemporary
look. Smoother simpler surfaces are employed
at the front, giving the vehicle its new char-
acter, emphasised by sportier looking front
lights, with new LED lights front and rear. The
new front bumper has a larger cooling aper-
ture to accommodate the new engines greater
power outputs.
The interior has been entirely redesigned with
a transformed dashboard and centre console,
new seats and an array of new, user friendly
features.
The new interior combines smooth, flowing
surfaces with significant reduction in the com-
plexity and number of controls. Like its prede-
cessors, Discovery 4 comes with seven seats
– the rearmost pair now offering legroom for
full-sized adults, providing a versatile space
for family and friends.
Designed originally to plug the gap between the utilitarian attributes of the iconic Land Rover Defender and the more luxurious characteristics of the flagship Range Rover, Dis-covery soon became the perfect niche vehicle for the growing demands of the family 4x4 market and the model celebrates it’s 20th anniversary this year.
Versatility Is Key
LaunchedLand Rover Discovery 4
14 ISSUE 59
Some of the features now available include
a Portable Audio Interface, DAB radio, a new
five-camera surround system, for easier park-
ing and towing and a new key system which
allows Keyless entry and push button start.
A new five inch TFT driver information screen
is also introduced with Discovery 4. Sitting
within the re-designed instrument cluster, the
message centre displays key information that
is communicated in a clean simple and user
friendly manner. Five digital cameras make
up the new surround camera system, relaying
to the touch-screen a near 360-degree view,
which is great for tight parking spots or ob-
stacles with low down hazards.
Land Rover claim that the Discovery 4 is the
greatest tow vehicle in the world. With com-
prehensive chassis developments the Discov-
ery 4 now boasts even more impressive load
carrying capacity, while towing stability and
guidance make towing, reversing and park-
ing with any kind of trailer a stress free ex-
cercise.
In the engine department, the Discov-
ery 4 now boasts a highly efficient TDV6
3.0 twin turbo diesel engine. This is claimed to
deliver a nine percent fuel economy improve-
ment on the combined cycle and ten percent
less CO2 emissions, while power is increased
by 29 percent. Their results in a claimed
0 – 100 km/h time of 9.6 seconds. The
180 kW and 600 Nm are accessible across the
entire rev range, delivering immediate throttle
response and effortless cruising ability.
The parallel sequential turbocharging sys-
tem of the 3.0 litre engine makes use of its
larger primary turbo most of the time, while
the smaller secondary turbo remains dormant
when high power is not required, reducing
pumping losses and fuel consumption.
The TDV6 3.0 is mated to the revised and
super smooth ZF HP28 six speed automatic
transmission. Its characteristics have been
optimised by Land Rover engineers to provide
class leading response, with rapid and refined
shifts.
Land Rover engineers have also transformed
the on road ride and handling as well as the
off road capabilities thanks to new suspension
components, revised steering, larger brakes
and improved traction control.
Enhancements to the Terrain Response system
help optimise the vehicle for every conceivable
type of terrain. Five different settings include,
General driving, Grass/Gravel/Snow, Sand,
Mud and Ruts and Rock Crawl. For soft sand,
one of the most power hungry surfaces, ‘sand
launch control’ has now been introduced,
which makes for noticeably easier pull aways.
This is achieved as new speed dependant
wheel slip targets for the traction control sys-
tem permit only very limited initial wheel-slip,
helping to prevent the wheels digging down
into the sand.
In terms of versatility you will still be hard
pressed to find a better vehicle than the Dis-
covery. Road manners are good, off road abil-
ity is exceptional and there is luxury and space
to keep passengers comfortable. Couple to this
good towing ability and efficient, well perform-
ing engines and you simply can not go wrong.
Pricing
3.0L TDV6 S R595 000
3.0L TDV6 SE R645 000
3.0L TDV6 HSE R725 000
5.0L LRV8 HSE R720 000
Pricing includes a Land Rover Care Plan valid
for 5 years / 100 000km.
Reuben van Niekerk
15 ISSUE 59
The challenge in designing the new
generation Prado was to improve on
the excellent reputation of the cur-
rent model and it seems that Toyota
have managed to do so by achieving even bet-
ter reliability, durability and robustness while
also improving the overall performance and
functionality of the vehicle.
Essentially a brand new design, the latest mid-
sized Land Cruiser SUV follows the formula of
a strong, all steel body mounted on a ladder
type frame for the highest level of durability in
tough operating conditions. By nature a Land
Cruiser model needs to live up to its reputa-
tion as tough, virtually indestructible vehicles.
The exterior design makes the Prado equally
at home on the sophisticated streets of Sand-
ton or in a harsh desert environment, one that
looks good even when it is dirty.
Toyota’s new Prado will initially be available
in the top-of-the-range luxury VX seven seat
specification with a choice of 4.0 litre V6, or
3.0 litre turbo diesel engines.
The Prado 4.0 VX Petrol is powered by the
highly acclaimed 1GR-FE 4.0 litre V6 engine
with a 24-valve DOHC configuration. This all-
aluminium engine from Toyota was purpose
designed for 4x4 SUV applications and has
proven itself in the current Prado. It has been
refined further for its use in the new Prado with
improved fuel economy and power in this lat-
est application. Maximum power is improved
from 179 kW to 202 kW at 5 600 rpm.
Torque is also marginally up with 381 Nm
available at 4 400 rpm. Dual VVT-i, high ef-
ficiency intake and exhaust ports, a number
of low friction components, and a 10.4:1 com-
pression ratio add to the performance of this
lightweight engine.
The Prado 3.0 VX Diesel model is equipped
with the 1KD-FTV common rail direct injection
engine. This is a 3.0 litre four cylinder turbo-
charged and inter-cooled engine with a
The Toyota Land Cruiser Prado is an extremely popular vehicle in South Africa, mainly be-cause it combines luxury interior design with good on road manners and true go anywhere ability that comes standard with any Land Cruiser model. It is no surpsise that the Land Cruiser is affectionately known as the Master of Africa.
Go Anywhere, Do Anything
LaunchedToyota Land Cruiser Prado
16 ISSUE 59
16-valve DOHC configuration. Maximum pow-
er is 120 kW at 3 400 rpm and peak torque
of 400 Nm is delivered between 1 600 rpm
and 2 800 rpm. Power is up by 25 percent on
the current model while torque improves by
17 percent. Both the petrol and diesel engines
are mated to a five-speed electronically con-
trolled automatic transmission.
This transmission offers excellent performance
and fuel efficiency together with a smooth
shifting characteristic and low noise.
The Land Cruiser Prado now has a host of
technology under its belt to help it sustain
its title as the Master of Africa. These include
Multi-terrain select, a first for Toyota, which
displays operational procedures for the driver
and at the same time controls the acceleration
dynamics of the vehicle.
Selecting one of the four available modes that
best matches the terrain being negotiated
prompts the system to provide easy to under-
stand guidance while optimising throttle and
brake control. The four modes are Mud and
Sand, Rock, Loose Rock and Moguls. These
functions ensure that even novice off-roaders
can tackle obstacles with confidence and will
make the vehicle that much easier to for sea-
soned off-road drivers to operate.
Other electronic gadgetry includes Multi-ter-
rain ABS, Brake assist, Electronic Brake force
Distribution, Vehicle Stability Control, Hill start
Assist control and CRAWL (Crawl control).
This system allows the vehicle to maintain a
low uniform speed over the roughest terrain
by controlling power output and brake pres-
sure to individual wheels for the purpose of
reducing the burden on the driver and provid-
ing a more comfortable ride when travelling
off-road. This allows the driver to apply his full
attention to steering the vehicle along the best
course.
The approach and departure angles, which
are an important factor in the off road abil-
ity remain the same as the outgoing model,
32 degrees and 24 degrees respectively.
In general on and off-road performance tend
to serve conflicting interests and it is often
difficult to achieve both good off-road perfor-
mance and good on-road characteristics in the
same vehicle. However with the new Prado,
Toyota have succeeded in improving both of
these conflicting qualities.
The Prado KDSS (Kinetic Dynamic Suspension
System) helps achieve excellent ride comfort
and driving stability for all driving conditions,
from off-road driving to motoring on paved
roads. This system controls the effectiveness
of the front and rear stabilisers to provide the
most suitable suspension performance for pre-
vailing conditions.
A double wishbone independent suspension
setup is used at the front and a four link with
lateral rod system is implemented at the rear.
Both systems use coil springs and have been
fine tuned to realise excellent handling, stabil-
ity and ride comfort as part of the new models
total overhaul.
Interior comfort is also improved, particularly
in the second and third rows, although I still
believe the third row of seats is reserved for
children only. The luggage compartment is
now more user friendly, as the third row of
seats can be folded away at the touch of a
button. The interior space and utility was
improved thanks to a slightly larger external
envelope.
Safety protection includes dual stage driver
and single stage passenger airbags as well
as seat side airbags for front occupants and a
knee airbag for the driver. Curtain side airbags
provide side on protection for all three rows of
seats and 18 Inch alloy wheels allow for large
diameter brake discs and calipers to be fitted
for superb braking. Ventilated discs are fitted
front and rear and are matched to four piston
calipers at the front with floating calipers at
the rear.
The Land Cruiser Prado 3.0 VX Diesel costs
R637 900 and the Land Cruiser Prado 4.0 VX
Petrol will sell for R650 000. This includes a
five year / 90 000 kilometre ToyotaCare Ser-
vice Plan. Service intervals are 10 000 kilome-
tres for both models.
Reuben van Niekerk
17 ISSUE 59
The Clio III line-up for 2010 will com-
prise the five door 1.6 Dynamique,
and the ferocious little monster
from Renault Sport, the 2.0 three-
door RS. So let’s first take a look at the 1.6
Dynamique, as I already mentioned the styl-
ing has been completely revised endowing the
new Clio with a truly individual character.
The previous models features list is carried
over and is further supplemented by the in-
clusion of cruise control, automatic climate
control, a combined rain and light sensor and
heated electric folding mirrors. In addition to
placing you in full comfort with this compre-
hensive list of features is an MP3-compatible
sound system with Bluetooth and iPod sup-
port.
On the safety side the new 1.6 Dynamique is
equally well stocked with ABS, EBD and Emer-
gency Brake Assist (EBA). Based on the five
star rated Clio platform, this latest version will
offer occupants more protection than ever be-
fore with dual front and side airbags, as well
as curtain and knee airbags. Engine wise the
new Clio retains the familiar 1.6 litre 16 valve
engine renowned for its combination of perfor-
mance and economy. Maximum power is rated
at 83 kW at 6 000 rpm with a peak torque of
151 Nm at 4 250 rpm. Fuel economy is en-
sured with a claimed combined fuel consump-
tion cycle of 6.6 litres / 100 km along with a
CO2 emission rating of 157 g/km. The new Re-
nault Clio 1.6 Dynamique has a recommended
retail price of R188 000.
Now let’s move on to the Clio’s sportier cousin,
the Clio RS. As the performance flagship of
the Renault Clio range, the Renault Sport (RS)
models have always been held in high regard
by driving enthusiasts, and it will be no differ-
ent in the case of the new Clio RS. Changes
on the RS roughly mirrors that of the 1.6 Dy-
namique, however it exudes a far more power-
ful stance due to the muscular accents found
throughout its design.
The RS isn’t just pretty though, it’s made to
go fast. The Sport suspension has been re-
vised and the wheelbase has been extended
by 10 mm for greater stability. It also features
a more refined power steering system that
achieves improved feedback to give you the
edge in corners. And getting you from A to B
is a revised version of the impressive 2.0 litre
16 valve power plant found in the previous
Clio RS. Power has increased to 147.5 kW at
7 000 rpm and the 215 Nm torque peak is now
achieved at 5 400 rpm. The first, second and
third gear ratios have also all been shortened
for punchier acceleration and transmission
is provided by a six speed manual gearbox.
With all these refinements the Clio RS is said
to be capable of sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h
in just 6.9 seconds and on to a top speed of
225 km/h.
The RS also has some tantalizing little ex-
tra’s like a bold yellow rev counter which in-
cludes a visible F1-style gearshift indicator,
form-hugging two-toned Renault Sport seats
as standard and an 80 watt MP3-compatible
CD player. And also included in the purchase
of the new Clio Renault Sport is a free high-
performance advanced driver-training course
conducted by the Renault Driver Academy.
And having driven the RS, I can assure you
that this little monster will surprise you, it’s
an absolute joy through the corners and un-
der braking, definitely one of the most fun
cars we’ve driven this year. The new Renault
Clio RS has a recommended retail price of
R249 900.
Upgrading models is an annual phenomenon in the motoring industry, usually it’s nothing more than a slight facelift, maybe making a bumper a little curvier here or adding some polish to the dash there. But Renault is truly revolutionizing their Clio range with the latest generation models.
The Face Of Progress
Johan Keyter
LaunchedRenault Clio 1.6 & RS
18 ISSUE 59
The Kia design team aimed to deliver
futuristic styling with a bold sense of
power and dynamism, to once again
differentiate Kia’s larger SUV from
potential rivals by incorporating Kia’s new de-
sign DNA into the all new Sorento.
It was also important for Kia to have a new
face, as in the past Kia cars were neutral in
design and not easily recognisable. With its
longer front overhang, wedge profile and
accentuated wheel arch volumes, the new
Sorento looks powerful, modern, sporty and
robust at the same time. Bold frontal styling,
which incorporates Kia’s new signature Tiger
nose grille that blends seamlessly into the new
Sorrento’s four-light, black bezel wrap around
headlamps, creates a simple yet striking char-
acter.
The new Sorento was designed on an all new
monocoque body shell with room for up to
seven occupants. Building on these founda-
tions engineers concentrated on eight key de-
velopment areas, class leading performance,
increased fuel economy, reduced emissions,
improved on road handling, more fun to drive
responsiveness, greater cabin space and com-
fort, enhanced overall safety and the introduc-
tion of new technologies. Reacting to market
forces and consumer trends, Kia has down-
sized the engines for the Sorento in terms of
capacity, while improving the efficiency of all
the powertrains.
The 2.2 litre diesel engine produces 147 kW
and 436 Nm from 1 800 rpm – 2 500 rpm
when coupled to an automatic transmission
and 422 Nm when used with the six speed
manual transmission. This engine features a
n electrical variable geometry turbocharger.
The 3.5 litre V6 petrol engine will produce 207
kW at 6 300 rpm and torque of 335 Nm at 5
000 rpm, when it becomes available in the 2nd
quarter of 2010 and will feature CVVT, for bet-
ter acceleration and fuel efficiency.
New Sorento buyers can select from two ad-
vanced drivetrains (2WD or 4WD) on the die-
sel derivatives and 4WD only on the petrol
derivative, to best match the on road and off
road abilities to the buyers individual lifestyle.
The 4WD drivetrain uses a single ratio (high)
4WD system, in normal driving conditions 100
percent of the power is delivered to the front
wheels but whenever a front wheel loses grip
a percentage of torque is automatically trans-
ferred to the rear wheels to maintain forward
motion. When driving in slippery conditions a
driver can manually select Lock Mode, which
then splits torque 50/50 between the front
and rear axles for increased stability below 30
km/h. The top of the range seven seater pack-
age includes a smart key, rear view camera,
self levelling suspension, 18 inch alloy wheels,
xenon headlights and a panoramic sunroof.
When using the vehicle as a five seater, the
total cargo capacity is now 1 047 litres. Cargo
capacity with all seats upright is 258 litres and
a massive 2 052 litres when both the third and
second row seats are folded down.
The new Sorento offers a luxurious and relax-
ing drive thanks to a great interior and good
driving dynamics. Its stylish appearance and
good engines rockets it forward in the seg-
ment, while competitive pricing will make it an
attractive choice towards buyers.
With six diesel models available from launch
pricing ranges from R339 995 for the 2.2 die-
sel 2WD manual to R399 995 fro the 2.2 diesel
4WD auto with the 7 seater package.
Kia say that they have adjusted there brand and design from simply being a car producer to being a modern mobility provider. After driving the new Sorento we can not help but agree.
Style, Space And Stand Out Looks
Reuben van Niekerk
LaunchedKia Sorento
19 ISSUE 59
Since launching the first generation
MX-5 in 1989, Mazda has stuck to
the concept that driving enjoyment
is the number one priority when
climbing behind the wheel of an MX-5. The
MX-5 is even listed in the Guinness Book of
World Records as the best selling two seater
sports car ever.
The facelifted model of the third generation
MX-5 embodies refinements for an even purer
experience of what Mazda call ‘Jinba Ittai’,
the unique feeling of oneness between driver
and car that has set the MX-5 apart since its
inception. With the freshened design, Mazda
retained the well known friendly facial expres-
sion while incorporating elements of Mazda’s
latest design themes for a dynamic, athletic
look that embodies the MX-5’s function and
purpose as a sports car.
In terms of dynamic performance, Mazda en-
hanced characteristics that appeal to the emo-
tions. The engine potential has been optimised
for greater enjoyment, a sportier engine sound
that responds more crisply to accelerator in-
puts has been created and a brisk, high quality
steering feel has been realised.The front grille
has been enlarged and changed from an oval
shape to the five point shape that forms part
of the well known Mazda family face. Com-
bined with tautly styled headlamp units and
flowing foglamp bezels, the new grille creates
a refined and athletic expression.
The MX-5 Roadster Coupe features an inge-
nious powered roof system. The power retract-
able hard top is a world first in that it retracts
into the back of the cabin, thereby precluding
any impact on the boot space. When the roof
is opened, an electrically powered mechanism
folds the roof and moves it rearward to stow it
in a space behind the seats. A rear deck cover
over the storage space is automatically lifted
out of the way to allow the roof to be stowed
or unfolded and is then automatically returned
to its original position.
The interior design delivers the MX-5’s tradi-
tional combination of comfortable snugness
below the shoulder level and openness above
shoulder level. With the latest facelift of the
MX-5, Mazda engineers have evolved the dy-
namic and performance attributes of the ve-
hicle. The powertrain has been enhanced to
enable the driver to enjoy the full potential of
the engine’s performance. The speed at which
the engine delivers its maximum power of 118
kW has been raised from 6 700 rpm to 7 000
rpm and the rev limit has been raised from 7
000 to 7 500 rpm. Torque remains ample with
188 Nm available at 5 000 rpm. As the engine
note is a big part of the sports-car experience,
Mazda engineers made the engine sound even
better with a clearer engine not being deliv-
ered throughout the rev range.
Aerodynamic improvements such as air guides
that protrude downward from the left and
right corners of the front bumper, protruding
rear combination lamps and wider front tyre
deflectors have contributed to improved han-
dling stability, quietness and high speed fuel
economy.
The Bose sound system now features a six
channel equaliser to achieve clearer. More dy-
namic sound reproduction, while an AUX jack
has been added, allowing third party audio de-
vices to be connected to the car’s audio sys-
tem. The new paro MX-5 offers 15 000 km ser-
vice intervals, an impressive four year / 120
000 km as well as a four year / 60 000 km
service plan. The Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe
retails for R337 500.
Mazda’s MX-5 offers roadster driving at its best, the original concept has been so success-ful that Mazda has never changed it, affordable to buy and use, lightweight, good handling and classic roadster looks, all it needed to bring it up to date was a few minor tweaks.
Zoomy Drop Top
Reuben van Niekerk
LaunchedMazda MX-5 Coupe
20 ISSUE 59
The GL-Class’ expressive presence is
further accentuated by modernised
bumpers, redesigned chrome under-
body protection at the front and the
rear, a new radiator grille, fog lights and op-
tional day time driving lights. Other new fea-
tures include a host of new light alloy wheels
and reworked chrome tailpipes and the range
of colours is supplemented by two new me-
tallic paint colours. A towbar is now standard
fitment and is hidden behind the rear apron,
which allows it to be swung out when needed
and concealed when not in use.
Occupants of the GL-Class will enjoy an incred-
ibly spacious interior that provides up to seven
passengers with the pleasant ambience that
is typical of Mercedes-Benz. The redesigned
luxury leather seats with contrasting trimming
will be a real eye catcher in the new GL-Class,
while the top of the line GL500 model is avail-
able with exclusive nappa leather appoint-
ments. The Comand APS multimedia system
is now standard fitment and combines a radio,
MP3 player with a hard disc navigation sys-
tem including high-resolution map display on a
6.5 inch colour display. The instrument clus-
ter features a high class 3D look, consisting of
two, one for the speedometer and the other
for the rev counter. The analogue clock is in-
corporated into the speedometer tube and the
fuel gauge into the rev counter tube.
Besides featuring the innovative 4Matic per-
manent all wheel drive system, the standard-
fitted Airmatic air suspension ensures out-
standing drive comfort and active safety. The
Airmatic system allows the vehicle to achieve
a ground clearance of up to 307 mm. The
Off-Road pro engineering package is a stan-
dard feature and greatly improves manoeu-
vring in difficult terrain, thanks to the use of
gear ratio reduction and multiple disc locks at
the rear axle and the centre differential. Ad-
ditional electronic handling systems include
off-road ABS, downhill speed regulation and
anti-stall assist.
With a lightweight design and equipped with
common rail technology, the GL350CDI 4MAT-
IC BlueEFFICIENCY with 165 kW of power is a
powerful V6 diesel engine with low consump-
tion. Maximum torque of 510 Nm is available
from as low as 1 600 rpm. The V8 engine in
the GL500 4MATIC is among the most pow-
erful in its displacement class with compara-
tively frugal consumption. This eight cylinder
engine with 285 kW develops 530 Nm from
2 800 rpm and is claimed to accelerate from
0 – 100 km/h in 6.5 seconds on it’s way to
a top speed of 240 km/h. The intelligent 7G-
TRONIC automatic transmission constantly
adapts to meet the requirements of the cur-
rent driving situation and the driving style of
the driver. The transmission is operated via a
Direct Select lever on the steering column or
alternatively by shift paddles on the steering
wheel.
The generous dimensions of the GL-Class
forms the basis for an exemplary load com-
partment. With three rows of seats there is
360 litres of space. With the third row of seats
folded downan impressive 1 240 mm is avail-
able and with the second and third rows folded
down, it offers a humongous load capacity of
2 200 litres, that can easily accommodate a
pair of mountain bikes or surfboards. The Easy
pack tailgate system opens and closes electro-
hydraulically and can be halted in any interme-
diate position.
The GL350 CDI Blue EFFICIENCY will retail for
R 860 00 and the GL500 for R990 000 which
includes the MobiloDrive 120 maintenance
contract.
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-road-er even more attractive. The designers have paid special attention to the vehicle’s exterior design and have made its striking body even more appealing.
Off-road Limousine
Reuben van Niekerk
LaunchedMercedes-Benz GL-Class
21 ISSUE 59
As with many of these kinds of cars
it began as an ‘under the radar’
project exploring the possibilities
of weight reduction on the Conti-
nental GT but with more oomph. A slight in-
crease in power and a new quicker shifting
transmission are the main culprits in the im-
proved acceleration times. Overall, the team
have achieved a weight reduction of 110 kg
compared with the Continental GT Speed.
This performance is complimented by chas-
sis enhancements including retuned steering
and suspension, utilising lighter weight com-
ponents, retuned dampers and anti-roll bars.
Agility is further sharpened by the 40:60 rear
biased torque split for the all wheel drive sys-
tem.
Ceramic brakes are standard fitment and are
needed to stop such a fast and heavy car. In-
creased power and torque of the W12 engine
required additional airflow to the twin turbo-
charger intercoolers and cooling system and
this was satisfied by adding large vertical in-
take apertures and twin bonnet vents.
An interesting fact is that the Supersports is
also the first Bentley capable of running on
both petrol and biofuel, pioneering the use of
FlexFuel technology in the luxury sector
The Supersports is further distinguished from
its Continental coupe stable mates by what
I like to call the Brakpan kit. This includes a
dark smoked steel finish to all exterior ‘bright-
ware’, including front grilles, lamp bezels, win-
dow surrounds and of course the wheels. This
just goes to show that having lots of money
doesn’t necessarily mean that you have style
and good taste.
Over the years I have attended a fair number
of car launches and the manufacturers always
try and do something special in showcasing
their new cars. For the launch of Bentleys fast-
est car ever they summoned us to the world
renowned Kyalami circuit.
And they had Derek Bell on hand to take pas-
sengers on hot laps around the track at night.
He is a is a former English racing driver who
was extremely successful in sportscar racing,
winning five times at Le Mans. He also raced
in Formula One for the Ferrari, McLaren, Sur-
tees and Tecno teams. Bell was one of many
drivers to take part in the filming of Le Mans
(1970) starring Steve McQueen. He is now one
of Bentley’s test drivers. Being driven around
Kyalami by Derek Bell in the fastest Bentley
ever, at night, rates right up there with those
special motoring memories that petrolheads
would all like to cross off their ‘bucket list.’
This is the part where I am supposed to tell
you how the car feels, how well it handles and
how amazingly fast it feels around the track
in the hands of Derek Bell. But I can’t. I was
one of only two journalist to even bother put-
ting my name on the list and got 16th spot,
because I really wanted a drive in the car and
because it is rather difficult to write a story on
a car that you haven’t even been a passenger
in. With plenty of track time I was confident
that in 16th spot I would get a chance, to ride
shotgun with this Le Mans legend.
It would seem that if you own a Bentley you no
longer regard the universal queing system or
common courtesty with any importance. Our
hosts continued to push customers into the car and after two hours, Kyalami had taken its toll and the tyres were toast, with the list long rearranged in order of importance, with journalists not ranking very high in terms of importance.
The Continental Supersports is the fastest, most powerful Bentley ever boasting with 621 hp and 0 – 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds on its way to a top speed of 329 km/h thanks to a bit of a crash diet, well that is what Bentley says it will do...
Jump The Queue
Reuben van Niekerk
LaunchedBentley Continental Supersports
22 ISSUE 59
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Now Ford is expanding its range
in South Africa with a new sports
utility crossover vehicle (SUV)
that is sure to see great appeal
across our country. Based on the successful
Ford Ranger, the new seven-seater SUV boasts
bold styling that reinforces the ‘Built Ford
Though’ image of the brand.
From the refined chrome grille to the mus-
cular wheel arch flares, all the design ele-
ments of the Everest oozes with toughness
and gives the car an aggressive stance that
any SUV owner covets. But it’s not all about
looks though, the Everest is first and foremost
a family vehicle, and it has been designed with
that concept in mind.
It’s the only vehicle in its segment to feature a
side-hinged door, this allows the spare wheel
to be mounted on it, creating more space in-
side the car and makes opening the door itself
a lot easier for smaller people. The third row
of seats can also be folded down or even re-
moved, if you don’t need the extra passenger
space, to create the tallest and widest cargo
area in its class. As far as power goes the new
Everest makes use of Ford’s acclaimed Dura-
torq TDCi diesel engine. The 3.0 litre engine
employs advanced injection technology, in-
tercooler and variable-geometry turbo charg-
ing, to reduce turbo lag and improve overall
performance. With plenty of available torque
the Everest is responsive and offers plenty of
grunt while the 3.0 litre engine will go on to
deliver 115kW and 380Nm at a peak torque
of 1 800 rpm.
As far as the drive train goes, the Everest XLT
is available in either 4x2 or 4x4 guise and will
make use of a five speed manual transmission.
The Everest LTD on the other hand is avail-
able in 4x4 only with a five speed automatic
transmission. The automatic model features
an electronic shift-on-the-fly system, allowing
the driver to shift the driving mode between
2WD and 4WD whilst driving up to speeds of
a 100 km/h.
All Everest’s will also feature High-Trail sus-
pension with double wishbones up front and
leaf springs at the back optimised for the com-
bination of rugged off-roading and urban use
that the Everest is designed for. The interior as
well is spacious and comfortable and leather
upholstery is standard across the range. You’ll
also find power windows throughout, air con-
ditioning and ample music capabilities inside
the Everest. And when it comes to safety the
vehicle sports a variable arsenal of safety
equipment which includes front airbags for
both driver and passenger, side airbags for
protection against side impacts, and three-
point safety belts installed throughout the car.
The vehicle also sports anti-lock braking (ABS)
and electronic brake force distribution (EBD)
to help avoid an accident in the first place.
And finally, something South African buy-
ers will especially appreciate is Ford’s unique
Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) which is in-
cluded in the Everest. This means a uniquely
coded computer chip is included on the ignition
key to ensure the vehicle will not start without
the correct key, so no worries of seeing your
beloved being driven into the sunset with a
screwdriver jammed into the ignition.
Pricing
3.0 TDCi XLT 4x2 R324 900
3.0 TDCi XLT 4x4 R364 900
3.0 TDCi LTD 4x4 a/t R382 990
From the revered Model-T to the new Everest, it’s amazing to see how Ford has evolved over the years. And it’s reassuring to see one of the oldest motor companies in the world still making headway today, even throughout all the economic troubles the motor industry has been through over the last year.
Mountain Conqueror
Johan Keyter
LaunchedFord Everest
24 ISSUE 59
The Mercedes-Benz E-class is already
a leader in the large luxury saloon
car market, offering all the luxury,
space and appeal that one would
come to expect from the German car maker.
These models are however completely trans-
formed when the AMG division wave their
magic wand over them.
The biggest difference compared to a regular
E-class model is a powerful AMG 6.3 litre V8
engine, a completely newly developed AMG
ride control sports suspension with electroni-
cally controlled damping and a new front axle.
Newly developed ceramic composite brakes
are also available as an option for the top of
the line E-Class model.
The AMG 6.3 litre V8 engine in the new E 63
AMG develops an output of 386 kW and 630
Nm. The E 63 AMG is claimed to accelerate
from standstill to 100 km/h in just 4.5 sec-
onds, with a top speed of 250 km/h (electroni-
cally limited).
The high revving, naturally aspirated engine
with a displacement of 6 208cc impresses with
its agile responsiveness, muscular power de-
livery and great flexibility. Helping to get this
power to the ground is the same AMG Speed-
shift MCT gearbox as seen in the SL 63 AMG.
This transmission uses a compact, wet start-up
clutch. In conjunction with the four individual
drive modes, the double-declutching and Race
Start functions, the resulting direct connection
to the power train allows an extremely emo-
tional and highly dynamic driving experience.
In the suspension department, the driver of
this car is not obliged to accept any promises
in this respect. The AMG ride control sports
suspension copes equally well with the agile
manoeuvres of the racetrack and more com-
fortable, sedate driving.
High performance and typical Mercedes-Benz
long distance comfort go together as an ex-
traordinary synthesis in the E 63 AMG. An
electronically controlled damping system au-
tomatically varies the damping characteristics
according to the driving situation, reducing the
roll angle of the body. In addition the driver is
able to choose between the three suspension
modes of Comfort, Sport and Sport plus at the
touch of a button.
The three stage ESP familiar from the SL 63
AMG and C 63 AMG enables individual settings
to be selected – with clear benefits in terms
of driving pleasure combined with the same,
high level of handling safety. Perfect decelera-
tion is ensured by the AMG high-performance
braking system with 360 mm, internally ven-
tilated and perforated brake discs all round.
The decidedly dynamic design of the E 63 AMG
is fully in keeping with the uncompromisingly
sporty technology.
The front aspect is characterised by 17 mm
wider wings, the new AMG front apron with
large intake air apertures and the AMG-specific
daytime driving lights in LED technology. As a
hallmark of the brand, the AMG sports exhaust
system has two newly designed, chrome-plat-
ed twin tailpipes. Exclusive interior features
include the dedicated, electrically adjustable
AMG sport seats with improved lateral support
and the AMG sports steering wheel in a four-
spoke design with AMG shift paddles.
The E 63 AMG comes standard with the Mer-
cedes-Benz MobiloDrive 120 maintenance plan
(120 000 km or six years), together with a
two year full vehicle warranty and is priced at
R1 150 000.
Offering an impressive combination of outstanding performance, exhilarating driving dynamics and a technology transfer from the SL 63 AMG high-performance roadster. The E 63 AMG ushers in a new generation of dynamic sport saloons with day to day suitability.
Everyday Super Saloon
Reuben van Niekerk
LaunchedMercedes-Benz E63 AMG
25 ISSUE 59
And the new 2009 Murano is striving
to live up to that legacy, and what
a legacy it is. Being the pioneer of
the mid-sized crossover SUV seg-
ment, and making it into the SA Car of the Year
2005 contest isn’t something easy to top.
So what do you need to make a new Mura-
no? Well a short list would include, distinctive
looks, swift performance, improved efficiency
and optimum luxury, hardly a walk in the park.
But it looks like Nissan has done it again with
the new Murano.
The new D-platform, which the Murano is
based on has been further modified specifical-
ly for the Murano, with revised suspension ge-
ometry front and rear and a new speed-sensi-
tive TOPS (Twin Orifice Vehicle Speed Sensing
Power Steering), a mouthful to say the least,
for superior high-speed steering precision, al-
lowing for improved handling and a smoother
ride overall.
The result of this is a level of luxury and com-
fort usually only found in large executive sa-
loons, the ride is unbelievably smooth and fil-
ters out all the harsher elements of driving on
South African roads. And helping you do this
is Nissan’s new Intelligent All-Mode 4x4 drive
train, a permanent four-wheel drive system
that allows torque to be distributed on demand
where it’s needed. Additional safety features
on the car includes ABS with EBD, Vehicle Dy-
namic Control (VDC) stability optimiser and an
Active Brake Limited Slip (ABLS) system for
optimum traction on all surfaces.
Front and rear passengers will also benefit from
active head restraints in the case of a collision
and pre-tensioning, low-friction seatbelts are
provided for all five occupants. Also standard
are driver and front passenger airbags, driver
and passenger side-impact airbags and roof-
mounted curtain side-impact airbags.
Under the hood the refinement continues, the
new Murano is claimed to go from 0-100 km/h
a full 0.9 seconds faster than the previous
model, giving it a time of 8.0 seconds flat. It
will comfortably sprint to a top speed of 210
km/h and fuel consumption has fallen from 12
l/100 km to 10.9 they say.
To achieve these figures the award-winning
3.5-litre petrol V6 engine has been further
refined to produce more power and torque,
191 kW and 336 Nm respectively. Also mak-
ing an appearance on the Murano is the latest
incarnation of Nissan’s X-Tronic Continuously
Variable Transmission (CVT), which features
20 percent less internal friction than earlier
examples.
Gearbox software has also been improved to
give the new system even better efficiency
than earlier CVT systems, the engine is now
held at peak torque during hard acceleration
rather than at peak power. In addition to im-
proving ride and economy the new gearbox
with Advanced Shift Control Logic also makes
ratio changes smoother than ever before, even
should the driver opt for shifting gears manu-
ally. The combination of all of these impres-
sive features is a car that gives you a sense
of absolute comfort and safety coupled with
sporty looks and performance. So whether
you’re driving the kids to school or driving
across the continent, the Murano isn’t likely to
let you down.
The new Murano is available from R488 000
and includes a 90 000 km / five year service
plan.
When the first Murano was launched in South Africa in 2004, it took the country by storm. Finally motorists had a car which had the space and ruggedness our roads demand but with the heart of a sports car, literally.
Where Style Meets Power
Johan Keyter
LaunchedNissan Murano
26 ISSUE 59
The urban styling of the vehicle is in
sharp contrast with the boxy look of
conventional 4x4’s, and while it ex-
udes a rugged presence on the road,
a sleek profile hints at passenger comfort and
refinement at the same time.
The crisp lines, bulging curves and low overall
height create a unique functional design that
looks striking whether cruising in the city, or
off-roading on the rugged back roads.
“We are extremely pleased to introduce the
Pajero Sport, a vehicle that is set to appeal to
persons with an active and engaging lifestyle,
those looking for more than just the ordinary,”
says Annette Erasmus, Acting Divisional Man-
ager of Mitsubishi Motors.
Built in Thailand, the Pajero Sport retains the
large dimensions of an SUV yet still offers
nimble handling and parking maneuverability,
even when struggling through traffic.
The interior has been upgraded with genuine
leather seats and intelligently laid-out switch-
es and controls equipping the vehicle with the
luxurious comfort expected in an SUV. For
audio entertainment, the vehicle comes stan-
dard with Mitsubishi’s audio design radio that
features MP3 and CD compatibility and six
speakers. The standard seven seats can also
be moved around to accommodate baggage,
sports equipment and of course passengers.
Under the bonnet the Pajero Sport is armed
with the proven 3.2 litre Common Rail inter-
cooled turbo-charged DI-D diesel engine.
This power plant sports a maximum output
of 120 kW at 3 500 rpm and a very impres-
sive peak torque of 343 Nm at 2 000 rpm. And
aside from being durable and dependable, this
engine has been noted to be quiet, responsive
and economical.
Transmission is provided in the form of a rally-
proven INVECS-II 4-speed automatic gearbox
and the new Pajero Sport will come with all
the usual tech in the package including ABS
and EBD.
Stopping power is provided by 16″ ventilat-
ed discs at the front with L/T drum brakes at
the back that will bring this SUV to a quick
halt. Additional safety is provided in the form
of dual stage front airbags and Pajero Sport’s
RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution)
body, designed to assure a high level of safety
in the event of a collision. And the smooth car-
like ride of the Pajero Sport can be credited to
its front double wishbones and rear 3-link sus-
pension with coil springs and stabilizer bar.
And in addition to giving you peace of mind on
the road, the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport 3.2 DID
GLS comes standard with Mitsubishi’s 3-year /
100 000 km new vehicle warranty and Mitsubi-
shi’s 5-year / 100 000 km service plan with
service intervals every 10 000 km.
You also receive Mitsubishi’s Diamond Promise
roadside assistance plan which offers repairs,
towing and storage, twenty-four hours a day,
365 days a year.
The new Pajero Sport 4x4 retails at an esti-
mated R414 000, and is sure to appeal to the
Dakar driver inside you.
A strong heritage in making sports utility vehicles, and an invaluable experience gained from many gruelling Dakar rallies will always count in your favour if you’re designing an SUV. And this invaluable experience has been integrated into the new Pajero Sport, a new 4x4 SUV from Mitsubishi.
Your Everyday Dakar Champion
Johan Keyter
LaunchedMitsubishi Pajero Sport
28 ISSUE 59
JWT56079/E
www.newfordeverest.co.za
All Action.
Introducing the New FordEverest, the SUV that is here to change the way you experience
the world of driving. From its turbo-charged 3.0 TDCi engine, to its ability to seat up to 7,
the Everest is designed and built with one purpose in mind, to take on any road, any terrain,
anytime. Available in 4X2 and 4X4, automatic or manual transmission.
New FordEverest
In saying this, it has a massive repu-
tation to live up to, and I predict it
will do so, as my first impression of
this impressive car around the Zwart-
kops Raceway during the local media launch
was very good! The car has lost none of the
traditional core values of the original Materia,
like a spacious interior, filled with all the mod
cons you would want in any car, never mind a
pocket rocket. You have air-conditioning, cen-
tral locking, electric windows and mirrors and
electrically assisted power steering to name
but a few of the luxury items found on board.
But these are the ‘boring’ details, you all
want to know exactly how well it goes? First
up there is a Japanese-engineered IHI turbo
on board, boosting a mere 0.4 bar to get the
Materia blasting away from the traffic lights
without any lag. Okay, maybe blasting is go-
ing a bit too far, but the power is up from 76
kW to 110 kW and the torque from 132 Nm
to a very impressive 190 Nm, and this en-
sures rapidish progress. When put against our
Racelogic VBOX test equipment at the Gerotek
Testing Facility, the Turbo ran to 100 km/h in
8.98 seconds and went on to a limited top
speed of 195 km/h true at 6 250 rpm. This is
more than enough to wake a few traditional
hot hatches up. And thanks to the short ratio
five-speed manual box, gearing down becomes
almost null and void and as such the Materia
Turbo can be used around town without killing
your expected Daihatsu fuel consumption fig-
ures and then back out on the open road too.
Claimed is 7.0 litres / 100 km, but a more re-
alistic figure would be around 8.0 litres, just
because it is so nice to play in the boost. Use
it all of the time though and this number will
then go some way over the 10 litre mark.
In standard trim you get the 17 inch wheels
shod with Yokohama 205/40 17 rubber, an
Eibach Progressive Racing spring kit that sees
the car 30mm closer to the ground and a stain-
less steel performance exhaust. The car comes
with ABS and electronic brake distribution and
brake assist, but the brake fluid has been re-
placed with a high performance derivative. On
the standard brakes, this was enough for me,
but should you want more, there is an optional
high performance disk and pad upgrade that
can be ordered when you buy your Materia.
The options don’t end there though, you can
also order a Momo steering wheel with air bag,
a 1000W amp sound upgrade to go along with
the standard six-speaker radio / CD / MP3-
player and a limited slip differential, all while
keeping the three year / 100 000 km factory
warranty for complete peace of mind. Only 40
of these units will be available initially, so you
better be quick in order to secure yourself the
most fun you can have for R219 900 today!
Daihatsu South Africa has launched a turbocharged version of their Materia and this ultra funky car goes straight into the motoring history books at the same time. Why? Because it is a uniquely local performance creation that is not found anywhere else in the world, ala the legendary Opel Superboss and BMW 333i.
TestedDaihatsu Materia Turbo LTD
Tiny Terror
Mark Jones
SPECIFICATIONSDaihatsu Materia Turbo LTD1.5 Litre Turbocharged110 kW @ 5 750 rpm190 Nm @ 4 800 rpm8.98 seconds16.60 seconds @ 135.32 km/h30.47 seconds @ 169.08 km/h195.35 km/h (Limited)R219 900
Model: Engine: Power: Torque: 0-100 km/h: ¼ Mile: 1 KM: True Top Speed: Price:
Apply online atwww.wesbank.co.za
30 ISSUE 59
Nissan’s all new 370Z, the sixth
generation of the iconic sports
car, celebrates 40 years of Z-car
existence and the compelling her-
itage of the Nissan Z-car continues to attract
loyal followers as powerfully as ever before.
This formidable heritage extends all the way
back to the original 240Z introduced in 1969.
The heart and soul of any sports car is the
drivetrain, the combination of a high perfor-
mance engine matched to a precisely engi-
neered transmission. The new 3.7 litre V6
delivers a healthy 245 kW of power and revs
with enthusiasm all the way to the 7 500 rpm
redline. The rev happiness is mainly thanks
the Variable Valve Event and Lift (VVEL) mech-
anism that has been further improved for an
engine with even better responsiveness to the
loud pedal.
Nissan has realised that even true sport car
fans have to wade through traffic jams on a
daily basis and they now offer a seven speed
automatic transmission at a modest price pre-
mium, easing the burden of the daily grind,
but still offering stonking gearbox performance
when needed. Featuring lightweight paddles
behind the steering wheel and the widest
torque convertor lockup range in the business,
this gearbox delivers the best of both worlds.
Optimised software and the paddles allow the
driver to have a similar amount of involve-
ment as that of a manual box when the need
arises. Nissans development team have also
concentrated on delivering a better balance in
weight distribution than ever before. Nissan
has realised that a 53/47 front to rear split
actually delivers a more responsive and stable
vehicle. The extra weight over the nose means
that under braking, the front tyres are pressed
harder into the tarmac providing more grip,
aiding turn in. Upon acceleration weight is
transferred rearward, giving the 370Z perfect
50/50 weight distribution right at the point
where you need it most.
All this technology allows the 370Z to sprint
from standstill to 100 km/h in 6.45 seconds on
its way to a quarter mile time of 14.60 seconds
and a limited top speed of 252 km/h. These
figures are not bad in the real world, but are
not great for a sports car of this pedigree. I
say this because these kind of figures are eas-
ily achieved by smaller capacity hot hatches,
which often offer higher levels of practicality
and greater value for money. Still, the 370Z
is a real drivers car, mainly thanks to its rear
wheel drive configuration and well balanced
handling. The car is now shorter for even
sharper agility, lower for improved body con-
trol in all situations and wider for even more
lateral grip than ever before. This all adds up
to make the 370Z a car that is great to drive
when the roads gets twisty or a trackday is on
the cards.
With the task of upholding forty years of proud Z-car heritage, the 370Z has been crafted using the same exceptional engineering standards and performance know how which has catapulted the latest R35 GT-R to the forefront of the hypercar pecking order.
The Fairlady Grows Up
Reuben van Niekerk
TestedNissan 370Z Coupe Auto
SPECIFICATIONSNissan 370Z Coupe Auto 3.7 litre V6 Naturally Aspirated245 kW @ 7 000 rpm363 Nm @ 5 200 rpm 6.45 seconds 14.60 seconds @ 158.06 km/h26.16 seconds@ 200.58 km/h 252.19 km/h @ 7 000 in 5th R516 200
Model: Engine: Power: Torque: 0-100 km/h: ¼ Mile: 1 KM: True Top Speed: Price:
Apply online atwww.wesbank.co.za
31 ISSUE 59
SPECIFICATIONSVolkswagen CC 3.6 FSI 3.6 litre V6 FSI220 kW @ 6 600 rpm350 Nm @ 2 400 rpm 7.42 seconds 15.40 seconds @ 150.27 km/h27.82 seconds @ 193.15 km/h 252.31 km/h @ 6 200 in 5th gear R451 000
Model: Engine: Power: Torque: 0-100 km/h: ¼ Mile: 1 KM: True Top Speed: Price:
Apply online atwww.wesbank.co.za
You will be forgiven for thinking that
this car shares a lot of parts or
resemblance to the VW Passat, but
basically it only shares the platform
and that is where the similarities end. Which
is why Volkswagen decided that the car will be
known only as the CC. The thing is however,
that it still drives like a Passat. Not that that is
necessarily a bad thing.
A few years ago we had a Volkswagen Pas-
sat in our long term fleet and and it was one
of the more popular cars amongst the maga-
zine staff. This was simply because it was such
a comfortable car to drive, both on the daily
commute and when tackling longer trips.
The CC shares a very similar interior and is just
as spacious and comfortable. Some changes
do however set the CC apart from the rest of
the VW family. New instruments were devel-
oped with numbers and markings as well as
the multi function display that is now lit up in
white. Further adding to front passenger and
driver comfort is 12-way power sport seats
with a climate control feature. The new cli-
mate seat actively ventilates the driver’s seat
and seatback surfaces, ensuring that a sporty
drive doesn’t leave you all sweaty. The boot is
certainly one of the biggest around at 535 litres
and easily swallowed up the month’s groceries
with plenty of space to spare, an added bonus
is that the seats can be folded down extending
the load carrying ability quite considerably.
The 3.6 litre V6 model ensures that there is
always enough power available underfoot,
220 kW and 350 Nm to be exact. This trans-
lates to a 0 – 100 km/h sprint of 7.42 seconds
on its way to a top speed of 252.31 km/h.
We also thought that this large displacement
engine would be sending us to the fuel pumps
very soon, but with regular freeway driv-
ing we saw the onboard display dip to 8.0 l /
100 km. Volkswagen claim an average figure of
9.5 l / 100 km which is easily attainable.
Dynamically the car is well balanced and needs
to be pushed hard to find the limits, this is
thanks to the 4 Motion system that works well
in conjunction with the acclaimed six speed
DSG gearbox.
What I like about the car is that the suspen-
sion it is extremely comfortable under normal
driving conditions yet it has the ability to per-
form in a sporty fashion when needed, without
being hard and bumpy as many performance
saloons tend to be.
If you are looking for a comfortable cruiser
with a good dollop of power underfoot the CC
V6 is not a bad buy at R451 000.
Volkswagen really knows how to make cars that appeal and work for real people. The re-cently launched CC, now available with a V6 powerplant, is the answer for drivers looking for beautiful coupe styling that does not compromise on everyday functionality.
A Coupe For The People
Reuben van Niekerk
TestedVolkswagen CC
32 ISSUE 59
The Grand Vitara - for a journey that’s a way of life.
SuzukiAuto_Car&Leisure.indd 1 12/12/08 12:03:37 PM
Now, usually I’d consider myself
someone who wouldn’t be too
fussed with the kind of prepu-
bescent arguments surrounding a
guy driving a pink car. But even I was shocked
at the utter pinkishness of this little Alto. But
anyway, you didn’t come here to read about
my embarrassment, so let’s get on to the car.
The Suzuki Alto is aimed mainly at urban mo-
torists seeking a small car that offers style and
driving enjoyment, together with good envi-
ronmental credentials. Although this seventh-
generation model is the first sold in South Af-
rica, it has been a pioneer since its launch in
Japan in 1979, and its international debut two
years later.
The concept for the first-generation Alto was
to provide a definitive response to contempo-
rary needs, representing great value by virtue
of superior fuel economy in the wake of the oil
crisis of the time.
And this has been the hallmark of the Alto for
some time, its fuel efficiency. Its attributes
embrace low fuel consumption and running
costs, a high degree of environmental effi-
ciency, exceptional value and affordability, as
well as Suzuki’s renowned traits for fun and
practical motoring. However the Alto isn’t sim-
ply a vehicle that sports good fuel economy,
it really is a fun drive. And if mine wasn’t so
outrageously pink I might have even felt con-
fident driving in it. It isn’t bad looking and it
has all the amenities you look for in a car, air
conditioning, an MP3 player, electric windows,
it’s all there in the Alto.
But how does it get around? Well, with a sur-
prisingly sturdy, small, highly efficient, all-al-
uminium 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine boast-
ing multi-point fuel injection, four valves per
cylinder and Euro 3 emissions compliance...
yep, that.
Economical and eco-friendly, the engine is
credited with a power output of 50 kW at 6
000 rpm and a torque peak of 87 Nm at 4 500
rpm. It boasts an uncharacteristically sprightly
character for its segment, matched to a low
kerb weight of just 895 kg. This is sufficient
to propel the Alto from 0-100 km in 17.7 sec-
onds, and attain a more than respectable 155
km/h top speed. More notably, however, the
Alto is credited with a convincing combined
cycle fuel consumption figure of just 5.7 litres
/ 100 km, and a very competitive CO2 emis-
sions rating of only 133 g/km. So in closing,
don’t shrug off the Alto because of its size or
speed, because this little car has really got
some character. Plus you get to save money on
fuel and you won’t have to worry about replac-
ing that German engineered air conditioner for
some ridiculous amount.
So there we were, it was the end of November and we were in the midst of the usual pre-holiday deadline scramble. As we were furiously churning out copy, a squeak of a hooter was heard from the gate and in came the new Suzuki Alto I was to test that week. Alas though, it was bright pink.
Feisty Fighter
Johan Keyter
TestedSuzuki Alto 1.0 GLS
SPECIFICATIONSSuzuki Alto 1.0 GLS1.0 litre50 kW @ 6 000 rpm87 Nm @ 4 500 rpm17.70 seconds20.48 seconds @ 106.63 km/h38.52 seconds @ 127.01 km/h155.19 km/h @ 6 100 rpm in 4th
R119 900
Model: Engine: Power: Torque: 0-100 km/h: ¼ Mile: 1 KM: True Top Speed: Price:
Apply online atwww.wesbank.co.za
34 ISSUE 59
SPECIFICATIONSRange Rover Sport 5.0 V8 Supercharged375 kW @ 6000 rpm625 Nm @ 2500 rpm 6.08 seconds 14.26 seconds @ 163.09 km/h25.64 seconds@ 211.18 km/h 229.65 km/h @ 5 200 in 5th R961 000
Model: Engine: Power: Torque: 0-100 km/h: ¼ Mile: 1 KM: True Top Speed: Price:
Apply online atwww.wesbank.co.za
A comprehensive programme of
chassis modifications has trans-
formed the Range Rover Sport’s
on-road dynamics, while also deliv-
ering a substantial improvement in its off road
capabilities.The muscular exterior has been
updated to provide a cleaner, more sculpted
feel, while the interior has been comprehen-
sively redesigned, using higher quality mate-
rials, soft-touch finishes and superior crafts-
manship to create a premium environment.
The Range Rover Sport has generated a pas-
sionate following among customers who re-
quire the performance and refinement of a
true sports tourer but with the great off road
ability of a Land Rover. It is the vehicle that
rockstars and royalty aspire to, and simply
says you have arrived.
Coupled to our VBOX testing equipment the
Range Rover did not fail to impress. It did the
0 – 100 km/h sprint in 6.08 seconds, which
is serious hot hatch destroyer territory, on its
way to a quick 14.06 second quarter mile at
163.09 km/h. The 5.0 litre V8, supercharged
petrol engine is all new and designed by the
Jaguar Land Rover powertrain team using an
impressive collection of technology. This engine
was developed to deliver a smooth, refined
and responsive driver experience, producing
an impressive 375 kW and 625 Nm of torque.
This engine develops bucket loads of power in
a smooth, refined and responsive driver expe-
rience that will soon see the vehicle rocketing
towards the horizon, while passengers are sur-
rounded by luxury in the spacious cabin. The
V8 petrol engine is mated to the revised six
speed automatic transmission. This transmis-
sion features a intelligent sport mode, which
can sense and adapt transmission characteris-
tics to particular driving styles.
Also new to this model for 2010 is the Adap-
tive Dynamics system, which works in con-
junction with the Dynamic Response system
to enhance control of the vehicles ride and
handling. This system optimises the vehicles
body and ride control, instantly responding
to the demands of the prevailing driving style
and the terrain encountered, in both on and off
road situations. Slowing everything down is a
new braking system which has been compre-
hensively updated to provide enhanced stop-
ping power and improved driver feel. Making
off road driving as easy for everyone including
first timers is Land Rovers award winning Ter-
rain Response system which now gains new
features and refinements, further extending
the vehicles all-terrain capability, this system
now also includes a new dynamic programme,
designed for sporty on-road driving. The
various off road programmes meant that the
Range Rover made light work of the very soft
sand of the Atlantis dunes outside Cape Town
too.
The Range Rover Sport retains its title as the most exciting and dynamic member of the Land Rover range with a comprehensive package of engineering and design changes for the 2010 model year.
Reuben van Niekerk
TestedRange Rover Sport 5.0 Supercharged
35 ISSUE 59
Blows Over Anything
A vote consisting of the full members and a jury made up of 30 selected members of the SAGMJ have chosen the eight finalists to partake in the 2010 SAGMJ / WesBank Car of the Year competition to compete for honours in the country’s premier motoring event. We take a look at the finalists.
SAGMJ/ Wesbank Car Of The Year
FeaturedCar Of The Year 2010
The Prius 1.8 ECVT Advanced
The Prius 1.8 ECVT Advanced is the latest
generation of Toyota’s green Prius, which was
the first hybrid vehicle to go on sale in South
Africa. It is powered by the latest generation
Hybrid Synergy Drive system form Toyota that
uses a 1.8 litre Atkinson cycle four cylinder,
16-valve VVT-i petrol engine in combination
with a 650 volt electric motor. The fuel injected
four-cylinder engine develops 73 kW at 4000
rpm with a maximum of 142 Nm of torque
available from 2180 rpm. The electric motor
has a maximum power rating of 60 kW with
maximum torque of 207 Nm.
Drive is via a CVT transmission that constantly
matches engine speed to power requirements
and driving conditions. Power delivery from
the petrol and electric motors is constantly ap-
portioned by the Hybrid Synergy Drive system
to optimise fuel consumption. The Prius 1.8
Advanced will enter the market at a price of
R326 200 which is a lower than the price of the
outgoing Prius that the new model replaced.
Volvo XC60 3.0T Geartronic
Dressed in a thrilling blend of muscular Cross
Country capability and the dynamic, sporty
charisma of a coupé, the new Volvo XC60 is
stepping boldly into one of the most competi-
tive and fastest growing segments in the au-
tomotive world.
The car is packed with Volvo’s accumulated
safety know-how and technology, both when
it comes to preventing accidents and protect-
ing all the occupants in a collision. And Volvo
Cars regards it as the safest Volvo yet, with
the unique City Safety system as a standard
feature and a tribute to Volvo’s firm commit-
ment to its core value of safety.
The six-cylinder turbocharged 3.0T engine in
this model produces 210 kW All Wheel Drive
(AWD) with Instant Traction is fitted as stan-
dard on all variants.Both engine versions come
with the automatic Geartronic gearbox, which
offers manual gearshift as an option.
The XC60 3.0T Geartronic retails for R515
000
Audi Q5 2.0T S tronic
The Audi Q5 is a new kind of SUV: it combines
the dynamism of a sports sedan with an im-
pressively versatile interior and a wide range
of practical features for leisure and family use.
A powerful, efficient engine, quattro perma-
nent all-wheel drive and an agile suspension
layout form an impressive technological pack-
age for on-road and off-road use.
The 2.0 TFSI combines three hi-tech features
– turbocharging, petrol direct injection, and
the innovative Audi valvelift system for vari-
able control of valve lift. Its high torque of 350
Nm is already reached at 1 500 rpm and is
maintained constantly up to 4 200 rpm with a
maximum power output of 155 kW available
from 4 300 rpm. Gear change duty is taken
car of by the innovative S tronic seven speed
dual clutch transmission.
Audi’s performance SUV drives with sporty
precision and unwavering stability and the Audi
Q5 also excels on rough terrain with a climb-
ing performance of 31 degrees. The angles of
approach and departure are 25 degrees, and
the ramp breakover angle where the wheel-
base really does matter is 17.6 degrees. The
ground clearance is a substantial 200 mm
while a wading depth of 500 mm is permitted
when driving through water. Capable of pulling
a trailer load of 2.4 metric tons the Q5 is a
powerful towing vehicle too.
The Audi Q5 sells for R465 280
Suzuki Alto 1.0 GLS
This little car is aimed at urban motorists seek-
ing a small car that offers style and driving
pleasure, together with low fuel consumption
and good environmental credentials. It’ll get
you from A to B efficiently, inexpensively and
in comfort to boot, and that’s why it’s a car
of the year contender, it does what it sets out
to do.
The Alto is powered by a highly efficient, all-
aluminium 1.0 litre three-cylinder engine that
boasts multi-point fuel-injection and four
valves per cylinder. This is sufficient to pro-
pel the Alto from 0-100 km in 16 seconds,
and attain a more than respectable 145 km/h
top speed. More notably, however, the Alto is
credited with a convincing combined cycle fuel
consumption figure of just 5.7 litres / 100 km,
and a very competitive CO2 emissions rating
of only 133 g/km. In addition to this the Alto
features luxuries such as power steering, dual
front airbags, air conditioning, an MP3 com-
patible CD player, electric windows and much
more. A truly impressive package for only
R119 900.
Chevrolet Cruze 1.8 LS
The Cruze 1.8 LS is a car that is changing
minds about what a sedan in this segment re-Suzuki Alto 1.0 GLS
Volvo XC60 3.0T Geartronic
Alfa Romeo Mito 1.4 Turbo Petrol
39 ISSUE 59
to offer. With fresh new Chevrolet styling, a full
suite of safety features and impressive value,
the Cruze is making a strong impact on South
African motorists.
The Cruze is powered by a new all-aluminium,
twin-cam 16-valve petrol engine with variable
valve timing for both inlet and exhaust sys-
tems. The 1.8 LS achieves 104 kW at 6 200
rpm and 176 Nm of torque is available at 3
800 rpm. It’ll also sprint from 0-100 km in 10
seconds and sports a combined fuel consump-
tion cycle of 6.8 litres / 100 km.
Refinements on the Cruze includes air con-
ditioning, an MP3 compatible CD player with
auxiliary support, ABS, EBD, TCS (traction
control) and a total of six airbags. The Chev-
rolet Cruze 1.8 LS can be yours for R 204 133
and will be one of the most comfortable cars
you’ll ever drive.
Golf VI 1.4 TSI 90 kW Comfortline
The Volkswagen Golf is without a doubt one
of the most iconic cars ever made, with its il-
lustrious 35-year history it has made its way
into the hearts of many a driver. And evidently
Volkswagen is still doing something right, be-
cause the newest iteration of the Golf is once
again up for Car of the Year title.
The Golf in question is the 1.4 TSI 90 kW Com-
fortline, also featuring the highly advanced
new TSI engine. This compact powerhouse
provides you with 90 kW at 5 000 rpm and
200 Nm of torque at 1 500 rpm, it’ll also reach
100 km in 9.5 seconds and a top speed of 200
km/h.
But chances are you aren’t looking for a sports
car when buying a Golf, so let’s go over some
of the cars finer features. The quality of the in-
terior is top-class, with high quality materials
used throughout and instruments and climate
control derived from the Volkswagen CC.
As far as safety goes the Golf succeeds with
flying colours scoring five stars in the EuroN-
CAP safety evaluation. It also boasts new sen-
sors that help with crash detection, front, side,
head and knee airbags and head restraints
that work against whiplash trauma. The Gold
VI 1.4 TSI Comfortline is priced at R238 400.
Hyundai i20 1.6 GLS
The Hyundai i20 is another one of those cars
that goes back to the roots of the word ‘car’.
It gets you where you need to go, but unlike
other cheap variants where you might have to
sacrifice features for affordability, the i20 gives
you an all-in-one option. In addition to looking
great, the i20 features several luxuries, includ-
ing electric folding mirrors, electric windows,
remote central locking, air conditioning, an
MP3 compatible CD player and auxiliary and
USB inputs, in short, the perfect vehicle for the
modern commuter.
Powered by a 1.6 litre multivalve engine, the
i20 1.6 GLS provides spirited performance
thanks to an impressive 91 kW and 156 Nm,
a top speed of 190 km/h and a claimed 0-100
km time of 9.5 seconds. And whether you’re
stuck in the morning commute or dashing
down the highway. Overall fuel consumption
in mixed driving shouldn’t rise above six litres
per 100 km, so you don’t have to visit the
pumps too often.
Transmission is provided via a five speed man-
ual gearbox and owners will also benefit from
ABS, EBD and front airbags. The 1.6 GLS will
cost you R159 900, definitely a worthy invest-
ment.
Alfa Romeo Mito 1.4 Turbo Petrol
In recent years Alfa has been kind of quiet in
the motoring industry, having long waits be-
tween releases and with few new cars to boot.
But in 2009 they unveiled the Mito, a small and
powerful new hatchback.
And if anyone doubted Alfa’s capability to
make new quality vehicles, the Mito immedi-
ately smashed them. By far one of the most
enjoyable cars we’ve driven this year it’s easy
to see why the Mito is one of the main con-
tenders for Car of the Year 2010.
The sprightly little Mito features a compact 1.4
16v Turbopetrol engine, but don’t let those
figures put you off, it goes like a rocket. This
powerplant boasts a maximum power of 114
kW at 5 500 rpm and a maximum torque of
206 Nm, but a mighty 230 Nm can be obtained
at 3 000 rpm by simply selecting the Dynamic
driving mode on the Alfa D.N.A switch.
The refinement the engineers have put into
the engine is immediately visible, why make a
large gas-guzzling engine when you can pro-
duce a smaller, more efficient and even faster
engine? The logic is irrefutable, and so is the
new Mito.
Judging Process
The next step in the process is to determine
the winner from a two-day test session to be
The Prius 1.8 ECVT Advanced
Hyundai i20 1.6 GLS
Golf VI 1.4
40 ISSUE 59
held in February 2010 at the Gerotek test fa-
cility near Pretoria, where the cars will be as-
sessed independently by the jury members.
The evaluation includes high speed dynamic
assessment; an autokhana test to mark ma-
neuverability, parking prowess and general
ease of control; driving tests under various
conditions on track and road, in town and on
gravel, all the while taking fuel economy into
account.
A static evaluation of each finalist also contrib-
utes to the car’s score in terms of aesthetics,
build quality and ergonomics, while consider-
ations based on perceptions of value for mon-
ey, cost of a spares’ basket, safety features
and environmental friendliness contribute to
overall points.
Then there’s value for money to consider.
What does the vehicle cost to run? Are parts
expensive? What kind of fuel consumption fig-
ures does it return? How practical is the car?
Is it equipped with all the comfort and user
friendly features you would expect at the quot-
ed price? Is its performance worth the money?
What innovations does it bring to the automo-
tive mainstream?
South Africa’s Car of the Year competition –
sponsored for the past 25 years by wheels
bank, WesBank, with additional support this
year from Total, Hollard Insurance, Garmin
and Varta – is unique in the world in that the
victor is determined not by popular vote as in
most countries, but by actual testing of the
finalists to determine by what margins they
meet criteria for COTY honours.
Win the 2010 SAGMJ Car of the Year – for
a Year!
One code to one number could win you the
2010 SAGMJ Car of the Year for a Year!
The SA Guild of Motoring Journalists invites
you to predict which one of the eight finalists
below will be declared the 2010 SAGMJ Car of
the Year and you could stand a chance to win
the Car of the Year for a Year!
The prize includes the use of the car for 12
months along with free prescribed servicing; a
fund to cover fuel for an average year’s driv-
ing, free comprehensive insurance cover, with
the only cost to the winning motorist would
be the payment of the excess on any insur-
ance claim and traffic offences made during
the period.
You will also automatically be entered into a
draw for eight lucky winners to attend the ex-
clusive banquet on 18 March 2010 at which the
2010 SAGMJ Car of the Year will be revealed.
All travelling and accommodation expenses
will be sponsored by WesBank, the main spon-
sor of this competition.
To enter, SMS the word of the car you think
is going to win (Alfa / Audi / Chev / Hyundai
/ Suzuki / Prius / Golf / Volvo) to 36870 at a
cost of R5 per entry and you will receive an
automatic response verifying the registration
of the selection.
Chevrolet Cruze 1.8 LS
End
41ISSUE 59
We see flashy documentaries
filled with graphs and predic-
tions, the greatest scientific
names talking about theories
and ideas, but somehow it just doesn’t sink in.
One gets the feeling that everyone is sympa-
thetic to these ideas, but we’re just as quickly
distracted by whatever else is going on in our
lives.
Why do I need to worry about a plant in Malawi
when my car just broke down? Or when I’m
late for work, or when I just saved enough for
that new TV. The bottom line is, most people
just don’t care enough to actively make a dif-
ference, and that’s why it’s such a heartwarm-
ing experience to see people actually going out
and doing something on the ground, and that’s
what the Toyota Conservation Outreach is all
about. Nine years ago the first Eco Challenge
was put together, many 4x4 teams took part in
a great driving adventure across South Africa.
Over the years though it evolved from a 4x4
enthusiast project into a mission in support of
conservation.
And in 2007 the main organisers of the event,
Gerhard and Elmarie Groenewald, from the
Klipbokkop Mountain Reserve held talks with
the Southern African Wildlife College (SAWC),
Toyota South Africa, the Peace Park Foundation
and SanParks to officially transform the Eco
Challenge into the Toyota Enviro Outreach.
The first outreach was held in 2008, with a
total of 14 Toyotas that set off from the Kruger
National Park to visit 14 national and transfron-
tier parks in five countries. And on the 1st of
October 2009 the Outreach set off once again.
With their 10 Toyotas (seven Hiluxes and three
Fortuners) and four Jurgens CI XT140 off-road
trailers packed to the brim with all the essen-
tials needed to survive in the African bush they
set off, and this time the focus would be on
Zimbabwe and Malawi.
Nowadays we are bombarded with environmental protection information, how we are de-stroying the ozone, how global warming will ruin ecosystems, how pollution affects fragile species, etc, etc.
Saving The Environment, One Step At A Time.
FeatureToyota Conservation Outreach
42 ISSUE 59
As they travel through the various parks, the
SAWC, represented on the trip by Theresa
Sowry gets the opportunity to visit 35 past
students in their places of work and conduct
evaluation on how well the students have been
able to implement the skills they learnt at the
SAWC. Alongside them, the Wildlife and Envi-
ronmental Society of Southern Africa (WESSA),
represented on the trip by Bryan Haveman,
conducted programs with local communities
on water quality and avoiding deforestation.
The other major environmental project on the
Outreach is headed by Prof Michelle van der
Bank and PHD student Olivier Maurin from the
University of Johannesburg.
They are currently involved in an amazing in-
ternational project called the Tree barcode of
life (BOL) initiative which aims to catalogue all
of the known tree species on the globe through
DNA bar coding. This means they are identify-
ing the unique short DNA sequence used to
identify species and by doing this they aim to
set up a database which custom officials and
game rangers can use to identify species in the
field. This will greatly aid the fight against the
trade of illegal trees and plants across borders
and it can even identify the plants in a crushed
powder form. There are 20 000 plus species of
trees in Africa alone, just to give you an idea
of the daunting task they’re tackling.
Throughout the outreach they collected a total
of 150 new species to be added to the Tree
BOL Africa project. All DNA material is housed
in a DNA bank at the University of Johannes-
burg where it is made available to researchers
around the world.
In addition to the researchers and game rang-
ers several logistics people also joined the Out-
reach, and without them we certainly wouldn’t
have made it very far. It is truly amazing what
an organized and motivated team of 22 can
do in the bush. From setting up tents to a
bush kitchen and bar, everything happened
smoothly and quickly. To give you an example
of their proficiency, one night we were late in
reaching our overnight destination so we sim-
ply stopped and made camp in a cornfield at
the side of the road.
Literally in minutes tents were popping up,
communications were being set up and a cook-
ing fire was warming our dinner before my tent
was even out of its bag. With a motivated and
friendly team like this it’s no wonder why the
Outreach has been such an amazing success
over the years. But let’s go back a bit; as the
Outreach set off from the SA Wildlife College
on the 1st of October they travelled through
the Kruger National Park and into Mozam-
bique. From there the convoy travelled over
the border into Zimbabwe and set up camp at
Masvingo, on the borders of the Rundu River.
From there it was back into Mozambique all
the way to Tete and then to Cape Maclear in
Malawi to see the great lake in all its splen-
dour. From Malawi it was back into Zimbabwe
where we finally joined them for a few days
of exploring. And what a wonderful experience
it was, the first night I joined the Outreach
we spent at a local tobacco farm, enjoying the
always-legendary farmers hospitality.
From there we drove up to Mana Pools, a large
park in the Northern reaches of the country.
After a few hours on the road we reached
the reserve and promptly made camp on the
banks of the Zambezi River. Now the one main
difference between wildlife reserves in South
Africa and Zimbabwe you should always keep
in mind is the fact that there aren’t any fences
keeping the animals away from the camps, or
away from anything else for that matter.
This means you get an amazing up close and
personal experience with the wildlife, from an
elephant bull lazily making its way through the
camp to the initially scary experience of en-
countering hyena on your way back to your
tent.
At Mana the Outreach met up with more ex-
SAWC students, collected more important
plant samples and had a long chat with the
parks director, Norman Monks on the situation
they’re facing trying to run the park at the mo-
ment.
After staying at Mana for a few days we packed
up camp and set off for Hwange National Park,
basically Zimbabwe’s equivalent of the Kruger.
But as happens so often things don’t neces-
sarily go according to plan in Africa and we
ended up being behind schedule by the end
of the day.
No worries though, “’n Boer maak ‘n plan”
is a saying that kind of expresses the entire
work ethic behind the Outreach, so we simply
stopped at a nice looking corn field (the one
mentioned earlier), and after getting permis-
sion from the local chief set up camp for the
night.
One peaceful night later we set off to cover the
last bit of road that would lead us to Hwange
and after another fun and surprisingly com-
fortable drive (thanks to our Toyota’s) we
reached the park. At Hwange we once again
quickly set up camp and everyone settled into
their own routines to get things done, or have
a beer, depending on what your job happened
to be at that time.
That night we enjoyed a delicious dinner of
ostrich fillet and everyone relaxed around the
fire until sleep finally urged us to bed. And this,
unfortunately is where my story ends, the next
day I flew back to Johannesburg to trade the
sound of lions roaring for the sound of trucks
lumbering down the highway.
But the few days I spent with the Outreach
was truly amazing, the passion these indi-
viduals have for conserving the environment
is truly impressive and without them I’d fear
for our chances in the battle against polluters,
poachers and the woefully ignorant.
The Outreach continued until the 22nd of Octo-
ber and throughout their journey they helped
make possible many more steps to conserving
our fragile African eco-system. For more infor-
mation on the Toyota Enviro Outreach you can
visit their blog at www.toyotaoutreach.com
and really get a feel for the full extent of their
amazing journey.
Johan Keyter
43 ISSUE 59
A vehicle has to be notable to be featured more than once in a publication, it’s got to have that certain something, it’s got to be memorable. And that’s exactly what the Hyundai H1 is.
Crossing The Country In Style
FeaturedHyundai H1
Thanks to the good people at Hyundai
we were able to drive it for a few
months and really get a feel for what
it would be like owning one of these
gentle giants. And let me tell you, it would be
pure bliss.
The H1 is the perfect vehicle for the family
who likes to travel, it has abundant space,
great cruising comfort and it won’t quit on you
for no reason. To truly put the H1 through its
paces, in addition to driving it all over for a
few months, we also took it on a 4 000 km
trip through the Nothern Cape. Let me explain,
some of our publishers family members had a
trip like this planned for some time, so after
some deliberation we decided to let them use
the H1 for their trip. This would be the perfect
opportunity to really get a feel for what the
vehicle can do and how it would cope on the
open road, this is after all what the H1 was
built for.
So on the 8th of September 2009, eight adults
(it’s licensed to take nine) piled themselves
and all their combined luggage into our Hyun-
dai H1, and quite comfortably at that. And
we’re not lying, the H1 seriously has enough
space for eight people to go on vacation at the
same time, in the same car!
Anyway, the procession set off in good spirits
from Pretoria and after a few hours of com-
fortable highway cruising they reached Bloem-
fontein where after a quick stop they set off
for Augrabies, their overnight destination and
about a 1 000 km drive from Pretoria.
Augrabies is always a beautiful place to visit,
and thanks to favourable weather our party
was able to view the famous waterfalls before
sundown with a glass of red wine at hand. Af-
ter a night at Augrabies the party set off to see
the world famous spring flowers of the garden
route, the real reason behind the trip.
Driving on the long, straight roads this part
of the country is famous for seems like the
very thing the H1 was born to do as the
2.4 litre Theta petrol engine confidently keeps
on gobbling up the miles. After a quick stop at
Pofadder it was on to Springbok and by now
the road was leading our party through the Ka-
lahari, orange and yellow flowers dotting this
otherwise barren landscape, a truly remark-
able sight.
Finally arriving at Springbok the search for the
road to Nabobeep started immediately, appar-
ently some of the most beautiful flowers could
be seen there. Alas, luck wasn’t on our par-
ties’ side this time as the locals informed them
45ISSUE 59
the flowers had already come and gone. No
matter though, the road goes on and this one
was heading to Kammieskroon, another one of
the myriad of small towns that dot the North-
ern Cape.
On the way though it was decided to take a
detour through the Namaqua National Park,
another test of the H1’s endurance and one
that it once again passed with flying colours.
The dirt roads through the park were rough at
times but the H1’s impressive ground clear-
ance of 190 mm, coupled with its general du-
rability and five-link coil spring rear suspen-
sion conquered them without a fuss.
The next day it was off to “Skilpad Park” within
the Namaqua National Park and here the true
beauty of the flowers in their prime made itself
visible.
The plains are carpeted with rich layers of
orange flowers and when you get out of the
car and walk into the veld you really get to
see all the small beauties that covers the land
as spring rolls in. From there the H1 carried
our party to Hondekilpbaai, all along the sea
as far as the road stretched the Hyundai kept
pace. It’s really noteworthy how comfortably
this van cruises, whether it be on the highway
or a single lane gravel road the comfort with
which the H1 conquers them is astounding.
Once again, the beauty of the route captures
one, the purple flowers growing between the
rocks with waves breaking in the background
is something worth seeing.
From there it was on to Nieuwoudtsville for
two nights and from there the road led to
Paternoster, another idyllic seaside town. At
this stage of the journey the H1 had seen and
done a lot, and while it had easily triumphed
over all the hazards the road had in store for it,
how were the passengers handling it all? Well,
if you find yourself in an H1 heading across the
country, quite nice to be honest.
The H1 sports leather furnishings all around
that is both comfortable and adds to the up-
market ambience of the vehicle. These, along
with independent controls for fan speed and
air temperature for each occupant and a six-
speaker CD player is sure to keep everyone
relaxed as the hours fly by.
Anyway, back to the journey. Our party of in-
formal Xtreme Car and Leisure testers had by
now also visited Langebaan, Yzerfontein, Sal-
danabaai and Elandsbaai and was now on their
way to Lambertsbaai to admire the Cape Gan-
nets in the breeding season.
After staying over at the Paternoster hotel for
a final night the road turned homewards again
and soon our gallant H1 was packed up and
ready to tackle the cross-country driving once
more.
The journey home was a relaxing drive with
our party staying over at a small roadside ho-
tel the one night and at Bloemfontein the next.
The rest of the drive was completed without a
hitch and by their return in Pretoria our party
and ever-reliable H1 had driven more than
4 000 km without a single problem.
So if you’re a leisure enthusiast that likes to
travel with a group of people the H1 may be
near to the perfect vehicle for the job. The
Hyundai H1 retails at an estimated R289 900
for the wagon version and this includes a
five-year / 150 000 km warranty.
Johan Keyter
46 ISSUE 59
Introducing the new FordBantam. The bakkie that works harder than
any other creature on earth. Now available in the smoothest diesel engine
in its category, the 1.4 TDCi. The DuraTorq TDCi engine develops 50 kW
and 160 Nm, while returning a fuel consumption fi gure of 19.6km/l.* Also
available in 1.3 and 1.6 RoCam petrol engines. *Manufacturer’s fi gure.
www.ford.co.za
JWT55233/E
The Yamaha FX Series is the most
technologically advanced personal
watercraft in the world, loaded with
more “industry-first” innovations
and exclusive features than any other water-
craft in PWC history. Designed for watercraft
enthusiasts that demand class leading per-
formance and industry-best comfort features,
the Yamaha FX Series has no equal. Building
on their successful HO models, the FX HO fea-
tures improved performance, a more aggres-
sive body style and graphics that exude per-
formance on the water.
The FX HO, the sportier of the new models fea-
tures a new 1.8 litre, 1812 cc high output ma-
rine engine. Now let’s just stop to think about
that, a 1.8 litre engine in a PWC? That’s more
than what you’ll find in a medium sized car!
And it’s also the largest displacement motor to
be used in a PWC, ever.
The FX HO will offer a fuel capacity of 70 litres,
more than enough for a day’s fishing or hav-
ing some fun on the water. The large seat can
take up to 3 people and storage capacity is
an amazing 89.6 litres ensuring you can take
ample refreshments along. The hull is made
from a NanoXcel High-Compression moulded
compound ensuring toughness and a solid feel
on the water. In fact the FX HO is so stable on
the water that anyone would be hard pressed
to get it to throw them off. And falling is even
less of a concern when you take into account
that you hardly even get wet, even when
you’re flying over the water at 60 km/h and
faster.
The other new addition to the Yamaha marine
fleet is the new FX Cruiser HO. Yamaha com-
bined a bit of the best from each of its designs
to create this high output, comfortable cruiser.
As far as performance goes it sports almost
identical statistics as its sportier cousin, the
FX HO. But what makes the Cruiser HO differ-
ent is its innovative touring features and class
leading fuel efficiency.
Some of the FX Cruiser HO’s features include a
Yamaha exclusive fuel flow meter, Yamaha ex-
clusive pull-up cleats and the spacious Yamaha
cruiser seat and three-point contact system.
All these extra’s on the Cruiser HO adds barely
5 kg to the overall weight. So whether you’re
looking for a bit more room or that aggressive
sporty edge, one of the new FX models will do
it for you. But let’s look at some of the other
innovations Yamaha has put into the design of
these remarkable new craft. Firstly, Yamaha’s
exclusive Cruise Assist, a feature that reduces
throttle fatigue, improves towing capability,
and can extend the range of touring.
Then there’s Yamaha’s ‘No Wake Mode’, a fea-
ture that sets the engine to optimum no wake
speed for optimal control in marinas and long
no wake zones. The FX series also sports Ya-
maha’s exclusive remote transmitter security
system and low RPM mode which reduces fuel
consumption by up to 26 percent. A throttle by
wire reverse system controls RPM in reverse
gear for maximum thrust efficiency and all of
the FX series models are optimized to operate
using regular unleaded fuel.
Wow, a staggering number of features to say
the least. It is clear that Yamaha has truly
gone out of their way to pack as much technol-
ogy into the FX series models as possible, both
to increase performance and to give you the
most comfortable PWC ride you’ve ever had.
If you’re a PWC fan I’d definitely recommend
taking a close look at Yamaha’s FX HO and FX
Cruiser HO, they’re truly remarkable.
Yamaha has always been at the forefront of PWC technology, and as one of the most recognisable and trusted names in the industry many watercraft aficionado’s opt for a Yamaha when looking for a new plaything. And they are continuing this successful legacy with the introduction of their new FX series.
Riding The Waves
Johan Keyter
LaunchedYamaha FX Waverunner
48 ISSUE 59
But a specific branch most people
have little to no understanding of
is marine jargon, or marine termi-
nology, and that is what this article
is about. To educate both our technically chal-
lenged readers and ourselves we’re going to
go over some generally used but seldom un-
derstood marine terms, so let’s get down to
it.
Aqualung
Also known as a cylinder in diving circles an
aqualung is a portable breathing apparatus for
divers, consisting of cylinders of compressed
air strapped on the back, feeding air automati-
cally through a mask or mouthpiece. Referring
to a bottle or tank is generally frowned upon,
so impress the guys at the dive shop with
some additional knowledge.
Ballast
Ballast refers to any heavy material placed in
a ship or the basket of a hot-air balloon etc.,
to secure stability. In boating terms the bal-
last is filled or emptied with water depending
on what kind of boating you want to do. So if
you’d like a fat wake for wakeboarding you’d
fill the ballast tanks and if you want to do
some skiing you’d empty it to keep the wake
as small as possible.
Bathometer
An instrument used to measure the depth of
water without the use of a sounding line. The
bathometer does not require a line to extend
to the bottom because it measures the differ-
ence in the gravitational effect of the water
surface and of solid ground.
Bow
One of the easier terms, the bow refers to the
fore-end of a boat or a ship.
In our modern world with all its different occupations and industries we’re quite often con-fronted with a little thing known as jargon. Now according to the dictionary, jargon is a specialised language concerned with a particular subject, be it I.T. jargon, motoring jargon or whatever.
Getting To Know Your Inner Mariner
FeatureMarine Terms
50 ISSUE 59
Draught
The draught or draft of a ship’s hull is the ver-
tical distance between the waterline and the
bottom of the hull. Draft determines the mini-
mum depth of water needed to float a ship or
boat. The density of the water (salt or fresh)
and the content of the ship need to be taken
into account when calculating draught.
Hydrofoil
A boat equipped with a device consisting of a
wing-like structure mounted on struts below
the hull of the boat, this lifts the hull out of
the water to increase speed and reduce drag.
This results in a great reduction in drag and a
corresponding increase in speed.
Keel
The lengthwise timber or steel structure along
the base of a ship on which the framework of
the whole ship is built, almost like the ships
foundation.
Port
In addition to referring to a harbour the term
also refers to the left-hand side of a ship, boat
or aircraft. The helmsman would for example
issue the instruction to turn to port, meaning
to turn left.
Quay
A quay is a solid, man-made landing place ly-
ing alongside or projecting into water from the
shore. It’s mainly used for the loading and un-
loading of ships.
Reef
Right, so most of us knows what a reef is but
for those who don’t, it’s a ridge of rock or coral
at or near the surface of the sea.
But here’s something you may not have known,
the word is also used in sailing terminology, a
reef is each of several strips across a sail used
for taking it in or rolling it up to reduce the
surface area of the sail in a high wind.
Schooner
A fore-and-aft rigged ship with two or more
masts, the foremast being smaller than the
other mast. Schooners were popular craft for
pirates, as it could carry eight or more can-
nons and was sleek and fast vessels despite
the fact that it weighed around 100 tons.
Starboard
The opposite of port, starboard refers to the
right-hand side of a ship or boat.
Johan Keyter
51 ISSUE 59
Allow me to introduce you to the MasterCraft X-14, quite possibly the perfect wakeboard-ing, water-skiing and all-around family fun boat out there. The X-14 is a spacious, world-class towboat with a hull configured for flat slalom runs with the throttle forward; and fat, rounded wakes with the throttle eased back
A Skier’s Best Friend
TestedMasterCraft X-14
A KGB ballast system also enables
you to design your own wake and
the X-14’s plush, wrap-around
seating section with a lounge ac-
commodates any friends and family you might
want to bring along for the ride.
Being part of MasterCraft’s legendary X-se-
ries, the Tennessee-made X-14 mixes nimble
direct-drive handling. With X-series amenities,
meaning it’s a versatile performer whether you
want to practice your wakeboarding moves all
day or take the family out for a leisurely ride.
Being the biggest direct-drive boat in the X-
series line, the 21ft. 4in. (6.5 m) X-14 features
comfortable seating for 11 and considerable
space for stowing all of your gear. With amaz-
ing standard features like an almost indestruc-
tible Zero Flex tower, swivel wakeboard racks
and a below-the-floor ballast system, riders
will find it easy to adjust from slalom-friendly
to air-ready.
The drivers seat and console has been upgrad-
ed and refined and thanks to its ergonomic de-
sign it’s been transformed into a digital com-
mand center on the water that lets you stay
on top of everything, from speed to ballast.
Featuring the VDIG in-dash video graphical
display centre, this up-to-date one-touch ac-
cess screen enables monitoring and control of
all the X-14’s instruments, like speed, ballast,
trim, depth and Perfect Pass.
There are also gauges that measure fuel lev-
els, low oil pressure, high coolant temperature
alerts and even a shallow water alarm. So as
you can see, no problem is going to sneak up
on you in an X-14. Near service time for oil
change or pump impeller replacement? No
worries, this highly intelligent computerised
information centre’ll warn and advise you on
what to do next. Many boaters find it’s easy to
forget the bilge system and the manual switch
too. No problem, as an auto system turns the
bilge-pump on when water is detected.
Versatility is key to the X-14’s design philos-
ophy, with a premier ski wake based on the
190 EVO hull and a wakeboard wake that will
propel most riders to the next level with ease.
This is in part thanks to its ballast system that
can keep up to 315 litres of water, freeing up
the boat’s 24 cubic feet of storage space for
more important tasks. As for power, the X-14
is propelled by a humungous 5.7 litre, 350 hp
GM Vortec V8 motor. The growl from this mo-
tor is most impressive and anyone looking for
some quick slalom skiing will be delighted to
find the X-14 moves from standstill to plan-
ing in just 3.9 seconds. The X-14 motor box
53 ISSUE 59
wrapped in high-performance, marine grade
diamond pleat vinyl, keeping it safe and look-
ing good. And due to this well insulated engine
bay there’s no problem whatsoever carrying
on a conversation or listening to some good
music while blasting across the surface of the
water. Speaking of music, the X-14 features 13
JL audio speakers, with two of these mounted
on the wake tower, so whether you’re lounging
on the seats or skidding across the water on
your wakeboard, you’ll be able to hear the mu-
sic. Also mounted on the wake tower are two
spotlights that will make that late afternoon
docking exercise a little bit less stressful.
And you don’t need to be a professional skip-
per to pilot the X-14 either, the cable-less
digital throttle control delivers quick, smooth
access to a wide powerband and a car-like
cruise control system precisely maintains the
selected speed.
One of the things that impressed me the most
about the X-14 though, if not the most, was
the way it turned. You wouldn’t believe agility
like that to be available on the water, and es-
pecially not in such a large boat, but the X-14’s
manouvarability felt more like a motorcycle
than a boat. Precision steering also equips it
with a very tight turning circle and even at
speed it will turn on a dime.
But if you’re planning on getting an X-14
chances are you want to use it for its towing
capabilities, human towing capabilities that
is. Featuring a highly durable tower with pod
speakers, lights and board holders that swivel
180 degrees into the boat for easy release
you won’t find yourself wanting on the practi-
cal side of things. But the wake is what you’re
really interested in, and the X-14’s wake is
among the most versatile in the MasterCraft
line. At 58 km/h the wake becomes flat enough
for slalom skiing but fill the ballast tanks and
the wake plumps up, clean and shapely, and
perfect for wakeboarding.
And added to all these refinements is a practi-
cal and easy to use boat, the X-14 is the only
direct drive in the X-Series that comes stan-
dard with snap-in and snap-out carpets for
quick and easy cleaning. The audio system is
also an AM/FM radio, a CD player and features
iPod compatibility.
In short, the X-14 is an amazingly engineered
boat with a large range of functions and kit,
and one of the best out there for some fun on
the water.
MasterCraft X-14 5.7 litre, 310 hp GM Vortec V821 ft. 4 in. (6.50 m)96 in. (2.44 m)11151 litres3.9 seconds75 Km/h @ 5 200 rpmR795 000
Model: Test Engine: Length: Beam: Seating Capacity: Fuel Capacity: 0-plane: Top Speed: Price:
SPECIFICATIONS
Apply online atwww.wesbank.co.za
Johan Keyter
54 ISSUE 59
This picture depicts professional drivers or wakeboarders executing manoeuvres under ideal and/or controlled conditions. Do not attempt any of these, or any other risky manoeuvres, if they’re beyond your level of driving or wakeboarding ability, as well as your understanding and respect for the performance of your personal watercraft.
A REVOLUTIONARY NEW EXPERIENCE.
YET AGAIN.
The iControl is also available on the RXT® iS 255 model.
// THE WORLD’S FIRST ON-WATER BRAKING SYSTEM
iControl
iBR™ - Intelligent Brake/Reverse
// THE WORLD’S FIRST FULL SUSPENSION ON A PWC
iS™ - Intelligent Suspension
// THE WORLD’S MOST ADVANCED THROTTLE CONTROL
iTC™ - Intelligent Throttle Control
// THE WORLD’S FIRST STEPPED HULL DESIGN FOR A PWC
S3 Hull™
Introducing . The world’s most
advanced watercraft technology, offering a level of
control never before seen on the water. The world’s most
advanced watercraft is no longer a matter of opinion. It’s a matter
of fact. And it will change the way you think about riding.
™
GTX†
LImITediS
™
255
THE WORLD IS OUR PLAYGROUND.From water to on- and off-road fun, BRP’s passion for adventure fuelsthe innovations that deliver the ultimate experience in powersports.Because your free time should always be your best time.
For your nearest Seadoo dealer contact CMH Recreational Products JHB (011) 462 4390 or CPT (021) 511 0220 visit www.brpsa.co.za
BRP Seadoo 10090902
GTI 130 RXT X 255 RXP X 255
// THE WORLD’S ONLY WATERCRAFT WITH A BRAKING SYSTEM
GTXLTDiS brake Leisure Boating 210X276.indd 1 2009/09/10 02:30:35 PM
Not Just Skin DeepBeing one of the most illustrious yacht builders in the world, Azimut has captivated the imaginations of many a glazy-eyed dreamer. And even though very few of us will ever be able to find ourselves aboard an Azimut, let alone own one, we can still dream can’t we?
FeaturedAzimut 43S
With its dynamic lines and a
boldly asymmetrical design
the style of the Azimut 43S
is unmistakable in its beauty
and appeal. Its uniqueness is exalted by the
new design of the windows in the hull, de-
signed for maximum comfort on board.
The slick exteriors and restrained yet con-
temporary interiors of Azimut’s flying-bridge
models, courtesy of the dynamic design duo of
Carlo Galeazzi and Stefano Righini, have suc-
ceeded where others have failed: executing
striking design across a line of flying-bridge
cruisers.
And while they are now available in sizes rang-
ing from 39 to 116 feet, the builder felt it
needed to offer more than just cruising boats
aimed at families. So Azimut acquired Gobbi
in 2001 and then created the Atlantis brand of
open boats. But something was still missing.
Hence the Azimut S range was born, and our
story really begins.
Even for a company known for being a trend-
setter since launching its first boat in 1974,
the S range is a high-water mark, and Galeazzi
and Righini have done it again with the 43S.
Like the 62, 68, and 86 S boats that preceded
her, she is simply gorgeous. She’s identifiable
by the trademark broad, wine-red stripe on
her hull sides set off by mirrored and shark
fin-shape windows in the superstructure that
make her look like she’s running hard while
sitting still. The hardtop, with Azimut’s signa-
ture raked aft section, shades the cockpit, and
a series of square windows in her hull com-
pletes the S treatment.
It turns out that her looks aren’t the only
features that are a breakthrough for Azimut
though. Never one to shy away from new tech-
nology, Azimut teamed with Volvo Penta to be-
come Italy’s first boat builder to incorporate
IPS drives as standard equipment on one of
its models. In fact, Volvo Penta’s 370 hp IPS-
500s are the only engines that are available
on the 43S.
In the cockpit one is greeted with smart de-
sign: three separate access points to the pow-
erplants and engine-related gear ensures you
can move around easily if you need to. The
cockpit hatch is suitable for everyday checks
and there’s nearly two feet of space between
the engines, dipsticks and oil filters. Fills and
belts are also an easy reach from this vantage
point.
However, unless you’re willing to crawl forward
from here, a removable panel in the
57ISSUE 59
saloon provides better access to the standard
10 kW Kohler genset and the mains’ bulkhead-
mounted Racor fuel-water filters. To get to the
marine gears and hydraulic steering ram, sim-
ply remove the cushions on the C-shape cock-
pit settee and open a hatch. The gear for the
boat’s standard hydraulic swim platform can
also be found here.
While the IPS drive system is something new
for Azimut, the 43’s stunning interior is not.
Two cream-colour settees contrast with the
copious dark wood, while those huge shark-fin
windows - as well as the big windshield - bring
in plenty of light.
As open and airy as she felt, the space can be
further brightened by retracting the large elec-
tric roof and opening the glass and stainless
steel folding door to let in some sun.
Two more S-range design hallmarks work bril-
liantly on the 43. Firstly, the fusion of wood
and metal in the galley creates a modern
kitchen scene that looks like it fell straight out
of a Defy advertisement.
And two steps down from the saloon and to
port, the galley’s stainless steel countertop
and backsplash are cool counterpoints to the
dark wenge sole, cabinetry, and the panels
that hide the optional full-size Vitrifrigo refrig-
erator/freezer. If you didn’t understand much
of that, don’t worry, but it basically means
you’ll find a mini mansion under the skin of
the 43S.
But how does this behemoth move across the
water? Well like we said, Volvo Penta engineers
helped Azimut design this hull to accommodate
the forward-facing IPS drives and its clear that
the two teams worked well together.
The Volvo Penta fly-by-wire electronic steering
provides excellent wheel response and she is
able to execute 180 degree turns in a flash.
Her two 370 hp Volvo Penta IPS-500 diesel in-
boards propel this yacht to her top speed of 34
knots with little effort.
And with a fuel capacity of 1 100 litres the 43
S won’t be bothering you with a flashing fuel
gauge too soon.
To summarize, the Azimut 43S is a thing of
beauty, the way the lines seamlessly mould
together to create this breathtaking yacht is
simply well, breathtaking.
End
58 ISSUE 59
Sea Ray has always had a prestigious reputation when it comes to manufacturing high quality, versatile and highly fun sport boats. And they’re striving to continue this legacy with the 230 Sundeck.
Your Ultimate Summer Companion
FeaturedSea Ray 230 Sundeck
The 230 Sundeck is a vessel that, like
its next-generation siblings, has all
the features an active boating fam-
ily craves. This leads to the natural
question: What does an active boating family
crave? Quite simply, the ability to host lots of
people easily and comfortably without losing
the performance, good looks and “trailerabil-
ity” of a sport boat.
That’s no problem with the 230 Sundeck. This
model has plenty of room for guests to enjoy
cruising, wakeboarding, fishing or all of the
above. They can relax on plush bow lounges,
which can be converted to a sun pad with op-
tional filler cushions. Two swivelling bucket
seats with flip-up bolsters ensure that the cap-
tain and navigator have a good vantage point
whether sitting or standing.
The large cockpit lounge can also become a
sun pad with an adjustable backrest. There’s
even an aft-facing transom bench at the stern.
Convenience is a big contributor to comfort,
and the 230 Sundeck has it in spades. The
walk-through windshield provides easy access
to the bow, while also granting unobstructed
views and generally speaking this is one of the
most spacious sport boats out there.
A bow block-off door offers protection from the
wind while under way. A bow boarding ladder,
enclosed head compartment, bimini top and
snap-in carpets for easy and hassle free clean-
ing all come standard as well.
The carry-on cooler has designated stor-
age that allows access without requiring that
guests stand up and move aside. So in addi-
tion to being user friendly the 230 Sundeck
is also lazy person friendly, what more could
you want?
There’s never a shortage of storage space on
the 230 Sundeck, thanks to a cavernous floor
locker with gas-assisted lid and mildew-resis-
tant vinyl matting, in addition to a huge com-
partment under the transom bench for wake-
boards and water skis. Storage is also located
beneath the helm and lounge cushions, which
are hinged for quick, easy entry.
Based on a 21 degree deadrise hull and boast-
ing a standard MerCruiser 5.0L MPI Bravo III
sterndrive that delivers 260 hp (194 kW), the
230 Sundeck imparts the adrenaline rush of a
zippy bowrider. Optional power ranges up to
a fuel-injected MerCruiser 6.2L MPI Bravo III
DTS 320 hp (239 kW).
Power-assisted steering gives the driver re-
sponsive control of the boat, and he or she
61 ISSUE 59
can monitor and operate the vessel’s systems
with the standard SmartCraft diagnostics and
Vessel Control System (VCS), which features
integrated steering-wheel thumb pads.
When it’s time to drop the hook and get the
party started, the 230 Sundeck obliges with
a standard Clarion AM/FM stereo with single
CD player and digital cockpit remote that will
ensure the music keeps pumping even as the
engines churn out fountains of spray.
Eight cup holders and a cockpit table will hold
all your food and beverages in place and keep
the party going, even when the water decides
to turn a bit choppy.
The latest Sundeck also scores style points for
its contemporary design, which incorporates
slick touches like stainless-steel engine vent
covers and an extended swim platform with
rubber inserts and a concealed ladder. And just
look at it, even if you aren’t a marine afficiona-
do you have to admit this boat looks gorgeous
as it skids across the water.
Available options on the 230 Sundeck give you
more than enough choices to personalize your
craft, including a premium stereo upgrade with
amplifier and subwoofer for even louder music
capabilites, hull colours and custom graphics,
a water sports tower with wakeboard racks, an
air compressor for water toys, speed control
and two trailer packages. More than enough
toys to keep you happy.
One thing that hasn’t changed is a full free
membership in the Sea Ray Owners Club,
where you can earn discounts on everything
from travel and insurance, to your next Sea
Ray purchase.
And as if this isn’t enough to convince you,
Sea Ray has also received four awards from
the marine press in 2008 and 2009.
A “Best Bet” award from Boating magazine for
the Sea Ray 230 Fission; a “Best of the Year”
from Motor Boating magazine for the Sea
Ray 43 Sundancer; an “Excellence in Design
Award” from Trailer Boats magazine for the
Sea Ray 230 Sundeck; and an “Excellence in
Design Award” from Trailer Boats magazine for
the Sea Ray 270 Sundancer.
To receive such a credible and prestigious ac-
knowledgement of our product quality is very
gratifying. It shows that they continue to pro-
vide their customers with boats that fit their
needs and reinforce their promise to be the
best.
So arguably being one of the most fun and
versatile leisure craft available at the moment,
the Sea Ray 230 Sundeck is sure to appeal to
a wide range of consumers. So whether you
want to have some family fun, a raucous party
or just some quiet fishing, be sure to take a
look at the 230 Sundeck.
And if you’re seriously considering the pur-
chase you can contact Waterworld for a local
quote. As most marine enthusiasts know Wa-
terworld has been importing Sea Ray products
into South Africa for as long as anyone can
remember.
They also own the import rights to the 230
Sundeck, so if you’re interested in this multi-
function beauty be sure to give them a call
about the specifics.
End
62 ISSUE 59
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Marine MarauderIf you’re a weekend boating fan who’s looking for a quality runabout that’s affordable and practical the Velocity is one to consider, seeing that it will offer you all the qualities that you would want in a boat.
FeaturedViking Velocity
Launching the Viking Velocity from the
coves into the Hartebeespoortdam
provoked great excitement on an al-
most perfect sunny day. The cove is
a housing village set in a natural style on the
banks of the Hartbeespoort Dam. The setting
is similar to that of a farmland, with natural
woodlands and stands situated on the imme-
diate waterfront, providing a magnificent view
towards the dam to the north and northeast.
The development provides a security village
with monitored security and access control at
the entrance and stands of various sizes, each
stand has an individual character and features
that require a specific design to make full use
of the potential of each site. The view might
be breathtaking, but the Velocity is not far be-
hind. Although it is small in size it is big on
demand.
Not only does the design look attractive, but
once you see the attention to detail you realise
this Velocity was not only built to look great,
but built to last a lifetime. And with a design
like that it would take much more than a life-
time to get tired of the Viking Velocity.
Once you step onboard you are met by a sim-
ple design and layout that will appeal to many
boating enthusiasts, this is because all the ne-
cessities are there but no unnecessary clutter
is taking up space. Half of the deck is covered
with a fixed carpet that is treated against mil-
dew and rot, while the bow has non-slip floor-
ing.
The floor storage compartment for skis, wake-
boards and general goodies is a worthy addi-
tion in the interest of saving space and keep-
ing your toys safe. Moreover, ample storage is
available under all the seats and side compart-
ments for the small provisions, not to mention
the handy glove box. Drink holders are spread
across the deck for passenger convenience,
while stainless steel grab handles will come in
handy for bow passengers.
Look above you and a Bimini top is in position
and ready to be deployed once the sun starts
beating down on you, but if you prefer cooling
off in the water, a telescopic ladder will make
it a little easier getting in and out the water,
even when preparing to get towed behind the
Velocity. At the helm you find yourself on an
easy to use console, with a rev counter, speed-
ometer, voltmeter and hour meter laid out in a
simple but attractive design.
The wrap around windscreen provides protec-
tion against wind for both the pilot and the
passengers. Sitting down on the bolster seat,
65 ISSUE 59
a rare feature on an entry-level boat creates
the perfect panoramic view for cruising the
water and making your experience that little
bit safer. Just take one more glance at the Ve-
locity and one will notice the use of stunning
colours throughout, and a striking logo design
that will take your breath away so fast that
the only word you’ll be able to utter will be
“wow”.
The 130 horsepower engine offers enough
power to get any powerboat enthusiast ex-
cited, especially if you enjoy a day of boating
which includes some watersport.
A modern looking boat needs a modern en-
gine to fit the looks and therefore Waterworld
fixed a Evinrude e-tec 130 engine to the Veloc-
ity’s transom. The more excitable crowd will
feast on the fact that the 130 hp mill roars up
speed in an instant and tears up the water like
a roller coaster with each change of direction.
What’s inside the Evinrude e-tec, didn’t hap-
pen overnight.
It takes incredible focus, discipline, and a
team of engineers who understand the needs
of boaters to engineer such an incredible ma-
chine. And the result is a technologically ad-
vanced engine that has been proven to be
both powerful and very reliable. With the ulti-
mate performance, this hull and engine combi-
nation makes this craft run effortlessly in any
conditions.
With two thirds of the well-balanced hull out
the water and only one-third in, less friction
makes the Velocity stable on the water whilst
at speed.
The layout is functional and ergonomically de-
signed and reminds me of a deck boat. It pro-
vides a good flow of L-shaped seating as well
as a more than decent cockpit and bow area.
Loads of attention has been given to smaller
detail on this vessel, making the owners of
these beauties proud boaters indeed. On-
board, the all-new L-shaped deck is spacious
with a wide walkway to the bow and overall
seating for up to six people.
What makes it even better is that this mini
performer is on the plane in just 2.4 seconds
and only runs out of steam at around 65 km/h
at 5 100 rpm. So the Velocity is a good family
runabout that will come in handy when scout-
ing for some weekend fun.
The Viking Velocity should not only be appeal-
ing to the first time boat owner, but indeed
the experienced one as well. You get a descent
sized boat with plenty of sporty features and
economical performance, what more could you
ask for?
Johan Keyter
66 ISSUE 59
If there’s a labour-saving device which will
make life simpler and better, the Americans
will invent it, so it comes as no surprise that
the Swift Hitch hails from a company based in
Maine, on the USA’s east coast.
Swift Hitch’s takes the hassle and risk out of
hooking up a tow vehicle and a trailer by pro-
viding a visual guide to where the ball and the
tow hitch are in relation to one another. Think
of Swift Hitch as a high-resolution revers-
ing camera pointing directly at the vehicle’s
gooseneck.
Those who tow regularly – whether it be a
trailer, boat, caravan or motorsport competi-
tion vehicle - will in all likelihood have experi-
enced the challenges that come with hitching a
trailer single-handedly: it can be fraught with
danger and the possibility of damaging the tow
vehicle.
But those issues are a thing of the past, thanks
to modern wireless video technology and with
Swift Hitch drivers will be able to line things up
perfectly, making for quick and easy aligning
of the two vehicles. Swift Hitch is completely
portable and comprises a tiny camera with a
magnetic base, and a display unit with a full-
colour LCD screen with 960 x 240 resolution.
So when it is required, simply attach the cam-
era in a convenient position on the back of the
towing vehicle, place the display inside the car
(or hold it in your hand) and select reverse.
Apart from actually driving the vehicle, Swift
Hitch pretty much does the rest, making this
kind of maneuvering much easier and much
safer. When done, remove the camera and
stow it in the glove compartment.
The fully-automatic night vision function allows
the user to hitch up in low-light conditions too,
thanks to built in infrared lights providing illu-
mination over a distance of five metres.
In strong daylight it has a range of up to 100
metres, giving it a myriad of other uses, rang-
ing from using it as a tool to help with the
setting of a satellite dish (leave the camera
focused on the television while you’re up on
the roof), or using the camera as a hand-held
aid to find that missing bolt that dropped out
of sight inside the engine bay.
With its long range and three-hour life from re-
chargeable Lithium-ion batteries, it could even
be put into use as an ad hoc early-warning
security system. The combined weight of the
Swift Hitch camera and receiver is little more
than 300 grams, while the display is little larg-
er than a packet of cigarettes, and the camera
is substantially smaller.
Automotive Technology Specialists is offering
the Swift Hitch at a special retail price of
R2 250, inclusive of VAT.
Contact ATS on 011 670 8400 for more infor-
mation.
Many luxury SUV manufacturers have started to integrate systems into their park distance control and reversing camera systems that make hooking up a trailer much easier, than shouting to and fro while reversing. This luxury is now no longer limited to newer, more expensive vehicles.
Seeing Is Believing
End
FeatureSwift Hitch
68 ISSUE 59
4002
_PEN
QU
IN_S
UZ
E&O
E
The Ultimate Boat & Engine Packages
www.SuzukiSA.co.za
For Trade & Dealer Enquires call + 27 11 974 1200E-mail: [email protected] or visitwww.SuzukiSA.co.za
Suzumar inflatable boats have been designed and built to specifications laid-down by Suzuki to meet the demands of South African boating enthusiasts for a range of quality inflatable boats which are offered as highly competitively priced Suzuki powered packages. Designed in the Italian style for good stability and handling the three models include tenders, family run-abouts and sports inflatables from 2.9m to 3.9m.
Constructed from heavy duty material with inflatable keels for good stability and control and aluminium or glass fibre floors providing the strength needed for more demanding performance and conditions. Each craft comes with stainless steel fittings, wooden seat and oars, repair kit, foot pump, painter and carrying bag. Suzumar and Suzuki are the Ultimate combination
The new YZ450F has a unique, fuel
injection, rearward-slanting engine
in a revolutionary bilateral beam,
aluminium frame. Every element of
these components has been designed to en-
sure a synergy between engine and chassis
that makes the bike corner better than ever
before.
The most noticeable change in the 2010
YZ450F is clearly the new engine layout. The
rearward slanting cylinder allows a steep and
direct line from the airbox through the new
throttle body and into the cylinder head. This
allows a smoother and easier flow of air as the
airbox is placed forward and high up out of the
path of dirty air. This also opened up space,
allowing Yamaha to centralise the position of
the shock absorber, creating better suspension
performance and feedback.
For the first time, Yamaha’s premier motocross
machine is equipped with fuel injection, which
automatically adjusts to give the best pos-
sible combustion under changing conditions
by means of various sensors. The introduction
of fuel injection allowed designers to reposi-
tion the fuel tank and air filter and develop
the rearward slanting engine. Having the cyl-
inder inclined backwards allows a straight in-
take design, giving greater intake efficiency
and more power. The rear shock and spring
revision ensures this power comes with a high
traction feel through the turns. To comply with
the straight intake design, the YZ450F’s fifth
valve was removed, giving the bike a more
compact four valve engine and a combustion
chamber with a wider bore and shorter stroke.
The compression ratio has been improved
from 12.3:1 to 12.5:1, for even better power
development.
The front straight intake brings excellent in-
take efficiency and helps mass centralisation.
The engines heat has less effect on the intake
Every motocross rider wants a machine with exquisite handling, that lets you zip through corners, get on the gas sooner on the other side and and is less tiring to ride. Yamaha have listened and have completely redesigned the YZ450F with one goal in mind – to handle better than anything else on the track.
Playing Dirty Gets Innovative
Launched2010 Yamaha YZ Range
70 ISSUE 59
temperature and there is less chance of dust
making its way into the intake system. With
the exhaust now exiting the rear of the engine
and passing under the seat, curves have been
added to the exhaust pipe to maintain a length
similar to the existing model. A resonator has
been fitted to ensure sufficient silencing while
also bringing out plenty of torque across a
wide rev range.
Supporting the revolutionary frame and en-
gine is a new suspension system. Both front
and rear suspension units have more capacity
and the front fork has a 10 mm longer stroke.
The new fork is tuned for high traction under
a variety of riding conditions and offers great
damping precision. Even more remarkable is
the fork’s supple operation when entering a
corner, further enhancing the riders ability to
overtake.
The rough yet elegant of the YZ450F’s me-
chanics has been emphasised by keeping the
body as bare as possible. The Bilateral Beam
aluminium frame, rearward slanting engine
with straight intake tract, and mass centra-
lised engine are allowed to stand out, with as
few plastic body parts as possible.
Those that exist are aggressively styled, a fish-
tail rear fender gives the impression of a de-
parting motorcycle and the riders view of the
front fender has a shape to suggest lunging
forward. Seen anywhere, whether standing in
the garage or crossing over the finish line, this
is an awesome looking motorcycle.
YZ250F
The 2010 YZ250F is moving the four stroke
250 cc machine into the next phase of opti-
mum track performance, as Yamaha claim that
it is still the wisest and best equipped choice
for young riders aspiring to success on the
track.
Riders are always looking for a bike that will let
them turn in earlier and get on the gas sooner.
That is why, from the ground up, the YZ250F
has been designed for exceptional cornering
performance and better engine control.
The new aluminium bilateral beam frame has
been engineered specifically to work with
the 250 cc engine, this new design features
increased lateral and torsional rigidity giving
more feedback on the terrain.
Improvements have been made to the damp-
ing valve and the inner rod of the YZ250F’s
long stroke front suspension to ensure a better
feel when turning in on fast corners, giving the
rider more confidence to power through the
bends. At the rear, the position of the spring of
the suspension unit has been lowered 29 mm
in order to enable a straight intake passage
– resulting in better cushioning performance
over bumps in the track.
The liquid cooled four stroke, DOHC, single
cylinder, five valve engine features revised
carburettor settings and improved ignition
characteristics. The result of all these modifi-
cations is more linear power delivery through
the rev range for better control at low to mid
speeds.
The YZ250F’s greater poise and agility are re-
flected in the new 2010 styling. New bodywork
is much sleeker and the surface area of exteri-
or parts has been minimised creating a feeling
of lightness and accentuating the bikes com-
pact, dart-like shape. The new textured plastic
parts keep the bike looking its best, even after
hours of hard riding on the track. Rider ergo-
nomics are better catered for with four step
adjustable handlebars and a newly designed
flat seat developed specifically for the YZ250F.
The seat surface material is said to offer a per-
fect combination of grip and ease of sliding.
The leaner YZ250F features new lightweight
parts throughout, including newly designed
sprocket, plastic resin engine protector, a more
compact oil tank, optimised brake pedals and
smaller brake hose guides.
The YZ250F will sell for R68 499, while the
YZ450F will retail for R76 499.
Reuben van Niekerk
71 ISSUE 59
The Kawasaki is pitched at the same
owner. Someone, just like me, who
will use a motorcycle as a commuter
during the week and then to enjoy
the open road or a track day on the weekend.
One of the problems I have is that my legs are
a bit short so seat height is perhaps the most
important dimension I look at when reading
the specifications. Anything more than 800
mm I ignore. The ER-6F must rate as one of
the bikes most suited for my frame. The screen
was even high enough not to make my head
feel like a pinball. The bars and controls were
in place, but the mirrors weren’t as well posi-
tioned as those on the Yamaha. However, this
isn’t a comparison between the two. Rather, it
is a fresh look at a bike which should appeal to
both inexperienced riders and those who as-
pire to wearing knee sliders on Sundays.
If it were my bike, I would fit the optional rack
that is available as attaching a bag or a set of
soft panniers to the seat is a bit fiddly. Fuel
consumption was pretty much average, but
not quite as good as the Versys I tested a few
months ago.
The two bikes share the same motor, but gear-
ing is a bit shorter on the Ninja which gives it
brisk acceleration through the gears as the 649
cc parallel twin winds its way from 4 000 rpm
to 8 500 where it is delivering 53 kW. Torque
is 66 Nm at only 7 000 rpm which makes it a
delight in traffic. I found the exhaust note ap-
pealing, but perhaps it would be an irritant af-
ter a few hours on the open road. I also wasn’t
particularly impressed with the messy sliding
graph digital display for the rev counter and
fuel gauge. Speedo is also of the digital variety
and the harsh highveld sun often made it dif-
ficult to read.
Kawasaki has paid particular attention to rider
comfort and rear engine mountings are now
In recent months I’ve managed to get my leg over some nice things, and by pure coinci-dence they have all been in the middleweight market. Before fetching Kawasaki’s ‘lime green, real mean’ ER-6F Ninja I had the pleasure of using Yamaha’s very capable FZ6-R, a bike I really enjoyed.
A Genuine Middleweight Gem For All Seasons
LaunchedKawasaki ER-6F & Ninja 250R
72 ISSUE 59
rubber mounted to reduce vibration as are the
fairly high mounted handlebars. I could still
feel the reassuring parallel twin beat, but I
was never conscious of it.
Weighing in at 205 kilograms, it isn’t the light-
est bike, but around town it is an absolute de-
light as the centre of gravity feels quite low.
On the road all it takes is a bit of knee pres-
sure on the tank and it responds to the request
for a change in direction. I never rode it hard
enough to get anywhere near the limits, but
the 41 mm forks felt well suited to the bike
while the rear, an adjustable unit was left at
the factory setting.
Running on 17 inch rims shod with Dunlop
tyres it felt pretty good as it dealt with Gau-
teng’s roadworks and continual changes in
road surface. Stopping power comes from twin
semi-floating 300 mm discs at the sharp end.
They felt powerful and were easy to use, but
the rear lacked feel. I managed to lock it up
and get quite crossed up when a brain dead
construction worker decided to cross the R21
opposite OR Tambo airport. The ER-6F comes
with ABS as an option, but the test bike wasn’t
fitted with it. Styling of the ER range isn’t to
everyone’s liking. But I love the way the near
horizontal rear shock is a focal point on the
right hand side of the bike. It is refreshingly
different.
My verdict of the Kawasaki ER-6F is that it is a
very, very competent motorcycle….. and, yes I
would be prepared to use it everyday. Moving
to the Ninja 250R, in this day and age it seems
that the most important figure in motoring
terms is litres per 100 km. But what if we were
to buck the trend and call it in fun per litre?
Somewhere near the top of the chart you’d
find the Kawasaki’s latest version of its quarter
litre parallel twin. It might be a relatively small
bike, but the Ninja 250R is a little gem as long
as you remember it thrives on revs and it’s
quite easy to see why the forthcoming Kawa-
saki 250R race series is already attracting so
much hype.
The fuel injected 249 cc four valve twin de-
velops 24 kW at a fairly lofty 11 000 rpm, but
very few of them can be found under 6 000
rpm which means you have to be a bit unsym-
pathetic to the engine to make it go. But when
it gets into its powerband everything changes
and it comes alive.
The exhaust note changes as an urban com-
mute suddenly becomes a whole lot more fun
as soon as it gets past 8 000 rpm. Drop down
to under 6 000 rpm and it is boring. Use the
six-speed gearbox to keep it between 6 000
and 10 000 rpm and you are rewarded with
brilliant fuel consumption figures.
It makes its 22 Nm of torque at 8 200 rpm and
it’ll cruise comfortably at 130 km/h with an
80 kilogram rider but the motor does start
sounding buzzy. Riding normally, i.e. obeying
speed limits it is easy to get more than 30 km
from each litre of unleaded. At 120 km/h the
tacho needle is hovering on 8 000 rpm and in
favourable conditions it will top 160 km/h.
Instruments are ‘old fashioned’ analogue de-
vices which I think work better in bright sun-
light than the digital devices that are fitted to
so many bikes. Weighing in at 154 kilograms
the handling is superb. Think about a corner
and it falls towards the apex where it remains
composed and it responds beautifully to direc-
tion changes. 17 inch rims are found at each
end and the rear suspension is Kawasaki’s Uni-
Track linkage together with a shock that is ad-
justable for pre-load.
Conventional 37 mm forks keep the front un-
der control and a 290 mm disc with twin-pis-
ton floating calliper provides stopping power
via a lever with gives wonderful feel.
A smaller disc on the back keeps everything
steady. I liked it very much and the lightweight
made it a delight in traffic.
Steve Wicks
73 ISSUE 59
In the last decade Rally Touring has
changed quite a bit. Most bikes to-
day are big multi-cylinder machines
with excellent touring qualities. But
the lightweight segment around 650 cc was
almost forgotten. Yamaha believes that as a
real multi purpose machine, the light weight
single cylinder is a perfect choice because of
its road touring qualities and excellent control-
lability on gravel roads or small tracks, as we
experienced , following in the footsteps of the
Voortrekkers across the Drakensberg.
When adventure touring through Africa was at
its peak, the first choice was generally either
an XT 500 with a big tank, or later the XT 660
Ténéré. The reasons were that the bikes were
relatively light and its big tank offered a range
of over 400 km. The aircooled single cylinder
engine was also very reliable and economical
and the bike was built in a way that made it
easy to service and repair next to the road if
you had the right tools. The motorcycle indus-
try today has forgotten some of these quali-
ties, but the XT660Z Ténéré will bring these
back.
The Ténéré is practical in the sense that you
can ride several hundred kilometres without
worrying about the next fuel station for exam-
ple. The single cylinder is practical, because of
its economy in consumption and maintenance,
while still having enough power to be superior
in today’s traffic and having a good enough
cruising speed on the highway.
The windscreen is quite efficient, providing
good wind protection without any buffeting,
even for taller riders, coupled to the comfort-
able riding position and long trips are never
a hassle. With a dry weight of 183 kg, the
Ténéré is comparatively light in its segment,
adding to the good handling character that we
experienced on some bad roads and mountain
trails.
The new XT660Z Ténéré has everything the original concepts success was made of: It is simple, unbreakable, practical, light and has a reliable, strong single cylinder engine. We put it through its paces in the beautiful Drakensberg.
Dust Buster For The Long Road
LaunchedYAMAHA XT660Z Ténéré
75 ISSUE 59
The luggage carrier is, as always standard
equipment, but the optional accessory top
case and side panniers will allow you to carry
everything needed for your own adventure.
Although sharing some components, the Té-
néré was actually designed as a new bike from
the ground up, due to different priorities. The
Ténéré was designed as an all round touring
bike and needs to cover all kinds of usage. So
things like comfort for long trips, a strong rear
frame to carry luggage and a passenger as
well as off road capabilities were factored into
the design plan.
The powerplant of the Ténéré is based on the
engine which is used in the XT 660R. Changes
include a new muffler and different air box
and the electronic engine management was
altered. This new air box is located under the
seat making it easy to remove the dry filter
element for cleaning.
The smooth-shifting five speed transmission is
equipped with carefully chosen gear ratios that
are designed to optimise the bikes strong, low
to mid range torque output.
Helping deliver high levels of rider and pas-
senger comfort while smoothing out a variety
of off road terrain, the new Ténéré is equipped
with long travel forks which give 210 mm of
front wheel travel. At the rear is a lightweight
aluminium swing arm which reduces unsprung
weight for enhanced rear suspension perfor-
mance offering 200 mm of rear wheel move-
ment. This combination ensures good handling
performance over all road conditions.
With its abundance of wild, wide open spaces,
glorious scenery, breath taking natural beauty
and the naturally adventurous spirit of its peo-
ple, the new XT660Z Ténéré could have been
designed with South Africa in mind.
The 2009 XT660Z Ténéré was designed to
offer a new generation of adventure seeking
riders the opportunity to explore a new world
of possibilities as was an integral part of the
original go anywhere philosophy.
The best part is that this can be done with-
out breaking the bank, with the 2009 Ténéré,
retailing for R89 500.
Reuben van Niekerk
76 ISSUE 59
K1209/12446/2506
SL 750 Shiver
Tuono Factory 750 Dorsoduro Pegaso 650 Trail
RS 125 850 Mana
Tuono 1000R Pegaso 650
SXV RXV
www.aprilia.co.zaContact your nearest dealer for a demo ride
bike
me
Aprilia Durban-Tel: 031 566 5464, Shop 156, 6 Aurora Drive, Umhlanga Rocks, Durban • Aprilia Randburg - Tel: 011 791 1077, Unit 2, Commercial City, Malibongwe Drive, Strijdom Park, Randburg • Eurobike - Tel: 021 461 0991, 117 Roeland Street, Cape Town • Fourways Motorcycles - Tel: 011 465 1540, Unit 1, cnr On The Straight, The Straight Rd, Fourways • Holeshot Motorcycles - Tel: 011 823 5830, Shop N5, K90 Centre, North Rand Rd, Boksburg • Power Bikes Namibia - Tel: 00 264 61 262139, 18 Kallie Roodt St, Namibia • Race Preparations -Tel: 012 342 6994, 1212 Pretorius St, Hatfield, Pretoria • Remitech - Tel: 041 586 0503, 361 Govan Mbeki Ave, North End, Port Elizabeth • Ultimate Performance -
Tel: 012 643 1110, Building 13, C/o Akkerboom & John Vorster Dr, Centurion • X Rated Motorcycles - Tel: 011 953 1777, 20 Commissioner St, Krugersdorp
I’ve never been to the Bonneville Salt
Flats in Utah or been anywhere near
Salt Lake City, but I’ve known about
Bonneville ever since I can remem-
ber…. I also know Donny Osmond comes from
Utah State. Bonneville is a famous landmark
to any motoring enthusiast.
It is a giant salt lake, it is white and flat which
makes it ideal for seeing how fast anything will
go and Bonneville Speed Week is an event at-
tended to by thousands each year in quest of a
speed record. Bonneville has become too small
for the ultimate jet engined devices that touch
the other side of 1 000 km/h that is needed in
order to break the big land speed record, but it
is fine for just about anything else. Triumph set
some pretty impressive records there in 1960
and launched the Bonneville to commemorate
the achievement. That name has stuck for al-
most 50 years and any two wheel enthusiast
over the age of 50 has most probably lusted
after a Triumph Bonneville at some stage of his
life, or at the very least knows what a Triumph
Bonneville is.
Triumph, along with the rest of the British mo-
torcycle industry, vanished in 1983 when the
original factory in Birmingham closed and it
wasn’t until 1990 that the name was resur-
rected and production re-started. The motor-
cycle world gasped as the ‘new’ Triumph range
was launched at the Cologne show, but was
blown away a decade later in 2001 when the
Bonneville range was launched.
Somehow the styling department at Hinckley
managed to use modern materials and pro-
duction methods to re-create an authentic
looking version of the original Edward Turner
designed engine. It was never marketed as a
replica, only as the Triumph Bonneville. Word
of mouth and the fact that it was quickly ac-
cepted by motorcycling industry itself ensured
it would become a good seller.
Steve Wicks is a short motor journalist who rides motorcycles, even in the rain, because he prefers them and reckons they are much more suited to the daily urban grind than a car. He says a motorcycle must be practical and with the state of our roads he thinks any motorcycle is more practical than a car.
A Bike Straight From Heaven?
TestedTriumph Bonneville
78 ISSUE 59
But what is it like to ride? For starters the riding
position is wonderfully relaxed and the high,
wide bars make it so easy to steer through
even the worst of traffic jams. It’s one of those
bikes that just fits humans, although I wasn’t
to keen on the pegs being so wide apart.
On the road it is one of the easiest motorcy-
cles you could ever hope to ride. It is simple in
that it does everything without needing a sec-
ond stab. Gear changes, although a bit noisy,
are light yet positive and I never once found
a false neutral. Weighing in at a reasonably
heavy 205 kg with a 28 degree rake you do
feel the weight at low speeds, but the cen-
tre of gravity isn’t too high up. Use the power
to keep it from flopping over at walking pace
turns in a car park and it’ll be fine.
Suspension is adequate rather than superb. I
can’t describe it as being plush and the con-
ventional 41 mm front forks felt more com-
pliant than the twin rear units. The rears are
adjustable for pre-load, but seeing as though
they were set it the middle I didn’t change
them.
With 71 Nm of torque available at a lowly 6
000 rpm, I never once found myself frantically
downshifting through the five speed box in or-
der to find enough power to accelerate past a
line of cars, trucks or buses. Power is 49 kW
at an unstressed 7 200 rpm, but this bike isn’t
about power and it never felt short of power.
Engine size is 865 cc, yet those big pots don’t
send vibrations through the bars or pegs.
The torquey motor combined with an upright
riding position makes it an ideal commuter and
morning traffic on a Johannesburg-Pretoria
run proved entertaining and totally relaxing.
The mirrors are also spaced well enough so
I wasn’t looking at my shoulders whenever I
wanted to see what was behind me.
Despite a small fly-screen, at 160 km/h
the wind buffeting is unpleasant, but up to
140km/h the screen works well. It isn’t the
type of bike that encourages boy racer im-
personations, but handling is good. It doesn’t
wallow through fast corners, rather it has a
sort of “don’t push me any harder” handling
characteristic.
You know, it makes you want to slow down
way before it would try to spit you off. Ground
clearance doesn’t look great, but I never
ground the pegs, even though I thought I
would once when I entered a roundabout a bit
quicker than I expected. Roll the throttle on
gently and the fuel injected motor responds
without fuss or snatching. Did you wonder
about fuel injection? Yes Sir, those impressive
carb bodies are fake.
They are simply for show, but they cleverly
conceal all the fuel injection wizardry, but just
to give a slight touch of confusing realism, the
choke lever on the left hand ‘carb’ is really the
choke/fast idle lever. Although there’s a single
310 mm disc up front and smaller version at
the rear, the brakes were good and there was
a lot of feel through the lever, which is adjust-
able to suit any size hands. At 775 mm the
seat height is brilliantly low (I’m a low down
bum) and although the board like seat doesn’t
look very comfortable, not once during the
week that I had the bike did I think about it.
It was another item about the Triumph that
was just fine! If ever the term ‘modern clas-
sic’ could be used accurately then I think the
Triumph Bonneville is the only motorcycle on
the road that carries the accolade!
Triumph has a comprehensive and attractive
range of accessories with a classic theme and
if I was lucky enough to own a ‘Bonnie’ I would
invest in a carrier together with a set of leather
saddle bags. In standard trim there is nowhere
to anchor bungee cords so if you need to take
any luggage or a laptop to work with you; it
will have to be on your back.
But what makes the Triumph such a fun bike.
I didn’t try to wheelie it, I didn’t try to get my
knee down and I didn’t try to do economy runs
with it. Yet fuel consumption was around the
20 km / litre mark and I suspect it might even
improve as the engine loosens up with some
more mileage on it. It’s rare that a bike just
feels so unfussy, so unstressed and so friendly
right from the outset. Even Ian Anderson’s
classic rock band Jethro Tull mentioned the Tri-
umph Bonneville in the hit “Too Old to Rock ‘n’
Roll: Too Young to Die!” …. So why don’t they
offer a free Jethro Tull CD with every Triumph
Bonneville bought new?
Steve Wicks
Model:Engine:Displacement:Power:Torque:Fuel system: Fuel tank capacity:Transmission:Drive:Front suspension:Rear suspension:Front brakes:Rear brake:Front tyre:Rear tyre:Length/width/height:Wheelbase:Seat height:Claimed dry weight:Price:Distributed by:
Triumph BonnevilleFour stroke, parallel twin865 cc49 kW (66hp) @ 7 200 rpm71 Nm @ 6 000 rpmTwin Carburettors 16.6 litresFive speedChain41 mm forksChromed spring Single 310 mm disc, Single 255 mm disc, 100/90 19130/80 172 230 / 840 / 1 100 mm1 500 mm775 mm205 kgR 89 995 Kawasaki SA 011 566 0333
SPECIFICATIONS
Apply online atwww.wesbank.co.za
79 ISSUE 59
The new phase shift complements the advan-
tages of the cylinder layout. Operating with a
28 degree throw, it effectively reduces the pri-
mary vibration and noise, eliminating the need
for a power sapping balance shaft. The new V4
typically produces more than 90 percent of its
maximum torque (129 Nm at 8 750 rpm) at
4 000 rpm. To allow the rider to comfortably
take full advantage of this torque, delivery is
smoothed by four drivetrain dampers, which
are said to further eliminate uncomfortable vi-
bration and backlash.
Every last part of the VFR has been designed
to aerodynamic advantage, right down to the
hand controls and switchgear with their re-
vised button positioning. The pillions comfort
and security have been taken into account too,
the supportive, vacuum moulded dual seat has
a flat and expansive area for the pillion to sit
with strong, easy to reach hand grab handles
and footrests.
A balance of positive and negative surfaces
gives the front of the motorcycle a light, open
look while also creating a profile that slices
through the wind with the least possible re-
sistance. Concave surfaces direct the eye and
air upwards towards the windscreen, which in-
corporates another air directin aperture at its
lower edge. Even the edges of the screen have
been crafted to create stability at speed.
For many the V4 cylinder configuration rep-
resents the perfect motorcycle engine layout,
providing high performance, vastly flexible
power delivery, and an almost musical tone as
it rises through the rev range. A V4 engine is
made up of two pairs of cylinders sharing a
common crankshaft, arranged in a V shape.
Within this configuration the possibilities for
variation are infinite. The V-angle, the firing
order, cam timing and many more factors play
their parts in the characteristics of the power
delivery. Honda engineers have continually
honed these variables, arriving at the opti-
mum mix for different demands of each V4
motorcycle. The focus for the team was to
develop an engine with incredible power and
torque, laid out together with an exhaust and
induction system that would deliver a truly re-
markable sound.
The VFR1200, as you might have guessed
from its name, will be a 1200 cc version of
the VFR model line. With the added displace-
ment, the new V4 will take on the likes of the
Hayabusa and ZX-14R, while Honda phas-
es out the 800cc VFR and CBR1100xx. The
1200 cc engine will also feature a selectable
cylinder deactivation system. This feature will
reduce fuel consumption by halting fuel supply
to specific cylinders under low load conditions,
such as when running at a constant speed on
a highway.
This technology has been used in Honda’s
four wheelers and has proved to be efficient
as there has been noticeable increase in the
mileage of vehicles. When the cylinders are
shut, the engine virtually becomes a 600cc
parallel-twin engine, which increases the fuel
economy. Honda President Takeo Fukui, had
said that such a technology could increase the
2010 Honda VFR 1200 V4’s economy by 30 per
cent. Rumour has it that ride-by-wire throttle
and brakes, electronically adjustable suspen-
sion, C-ABS and an airbag are some of the
other noticeable features of the bike.
Some unconfirmed reports say that the 2010
Honda VFR 1200 V4 will have a top speed of
300 km / h and a horsepower figure of about
200 hp.
The VFR1200F is set to deliver the power and experience of a V4 but it does so in such a controlled and sophisticated way that it leaves you completely free to enjoy your riding experience while it boast some of the most innovative technology to be seen on a motor-cycle in recent years.
Honda Attacks Supersports
Reuben van Niekerk
FeatureHonda VFR1200F
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