The new-model madness of the Johannesburg International Motor Show continues. In this final installment, Christo Valentyn shares some more of his highlights.
Kia
The biggest news at the Kia stand was the unveiling of the new Rio hatchback and the Optima sedan, the Rio due for local release in November and the Optima early in 2012. Peter Schreyer’s trademark new design language for Kia adorns both these models, with especially the Optima catching the eye with its magnificent looks. From international reports both the Rio and the Optima seems to continue Kia’s model rejuvenation blitz and are bound to be extremely well priced competitors to existing models. Look out for a ful launch report on the Rio early in November.
McLaren
The Daytona Group used JIMS as a platform to introduce the gorgeous new McLaren MP4-12C. Showed in striking white, the MP4-12C comes with a dry sump 3.8-litre twin-turbocharged V8, mounted in a mid-engine position and churning out a peak output of 441 kW at 7 000 r/min and 600 Nm of torque from 3 000 r/min all the way up to 7 000 r/min. Drive is sent to the rear wheels via McLaren’s own seven-speed ‘Seamless Shift’ dual clutch gearbox and the engine’s redline starts at 8 500 r/min. All this power, combined with a kerb weight of just 1 366 kilograms, means the MP4-12C is capable of 0 – 100km/h in 3.3 seconds, or 3.1 seconds when equipped with the optional Corsa tyres. Despite the stellar performance, fuel economy is a claimed 11.7-litres/100km.
Citroën
Citroën has also been on a journey of rejuvenation of the past year, and you can see most of their new models at their expansive and striking JIMS stand, including the Car of the Year-nominated DS4 and the even more scorching DS3 Racing, sporting a gorgeous black and orange paintjob. It’s the brainchild of Citroën Racing, fitted with a 1.6-litre, turbocharged, direct-injection engine that produces a healthy 154kW. Recalibrated electronics, higher turbo boost and a freer-flowing exhaust are the chief power-liberators. Those striking 18-inch wheels sit 15mm further out than normal which, together with firmer springs and dampers (more so at the rear) and a 15mm lower ride height, makes this DS3 a hoot!
Taking pride of place however was the all-new DS5, which is scheduled for international launch in November. European engine options include 1.6-litre and 2.0 diesel units with 80 kW and 119 kW respectively, and a pair of 1.6-litre turbo petrols with 112 kW and 144 kW. Also on offer will be a HYbrid4 version, which is Citroen’s first production hybrid. It features a 119 kW 2.0-litre HDi engine driving the front wheels, while an electric motor powers the rears. It makes up to 27 kW in Sport mode, for a total output of 147 kW and 0-100 km/h in 8.6 seconds, 107g/km of carbon and nearly 3.36-litres/100km.
Toyota
Toyota pulled out all the stops at this year’s JIMS, with the bulk of their stand dedicated to new models and concepts, most destined for local introduction over the coming year. On display was the new Etios sedan and hatch, which is set to be Toyota’s new budget offering in the local market, as well as an Auris TRD, the first model destined for SA in TRD’s return to South African shores. Speaking of Auris, the Auris HSD (Hybrid Synergy Drive) is also on display, and also set for local introduction. The new Yaris, which we drove exclusively in Copenhagen in September, is also on display.
In terms of concepts, Toyota spoilt us with the cute FT-EV II, a four-seater concept that previews the upcoming small city electric vehicle set to be released by 2012. It’s positioned under the iQ in Toyota’s line-up, measuring 2730 mm in length, 1680 mm in width and 1490 mm height. The vehicle has no steering wheel or foot pedals and has not been designed simply as a means of transport, but instead based on the premise of collaboration with communications functions, a concept that differs from earlier vehicles. The car is powered by a lithium-ion battery pack that has a range of 90km and can hit a top speed around 100 km/h.
Undoubtedly the main drawcard at the Toyota stand was the FT-86, displayed in G Sport kit. Powered by a 2.0-litre, naturally aspirated, flat-four engine, the result of a joint development between Subaru and Toyota, the engine will be combined with D-4S technology (direct injection combined with port injection) that will help increase the output and torque, but will deliver an impressive fuel consumption at the same time. The engine will be mated to either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. The manual will offer quick and precise shifts with a short-throw, while the automatic transmission will feature sporty shifts controlled by steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifts. Power will be distributed effectively to the rear wheels through a limited-slip differential.
- Christo Valentyn
