As we get closer to the 2010 Paris Motor Show, which starts on 30 September, more and more manufacturers are releasing previews of their upcoming models or concept cars, in a effort to build hype.
Chevrolet will bringing four new cars to Paris this year, namely the new Chevrolet Aveo and Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback. The new 2011 Aveo is characterised by an aggressive looking front with its exposed twin-headlamps and dual port grille, a rising shoulder line with short rear overhang, the ‘hidden’ rear door handles located in the c-pillar and a ‘body in, wheels out’ stance, which is very much part of the new Chevrolet design language. The new Aveo is longer and wider than the current model, giving it more passenger and cargo space. The interior design follows the trend set by the Spark, with a motorcycle-inspired instrument binnacle, which features an analogue tachometer combined with a digital speedometer and warning lights. A choice of petrol and diesel engines will be available in the new Chevrolet Aveo. These include two 1.2-litre petrol engines (at 52 kW and at 64 kW), a 1.4-litre unit (74 kW) and a 1.6-litre (85 kW) engine. For the first time, Aveo will be offered with two versions of a 1.3-litre diesel engine (at 55 kW and at 70 kW) featuring Start/Stop technology. Chevrolet South Africa has not given an ETA on the Aveo yet.
The Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback will also debut and offers buyers an alternative body style to the traditional sedan. A coupe-style roofline with short overhangs, at both the front and rear, characterise the new Cruze hatch. The hatchback is built using Chevrolet’s new body-frame integral system (BFI), which is said to result in high levels of solidity and stability on the road. Cargo capacity for the Cruze hatchback is close to 400-litres and will feature 60:40 split rear seating. The new Chevrolet Cruze 5-door hatchback will go on sale across Europe mid-2011, followed by other global markets. Although GM South Africa is considering the possibility of bringing this stylish hatch into South Africa to complement the current Cruze range, no final decision has yet been made.
Available in Europe since May, the revised Audi TT is now available in South Africa. The updates bring more power, efficiency and a touch more style to the range. The TT’s engine choice has been simplified with the loss of the 3.2-litre V6. The popular 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine remains, but receives an 8 kW increase in peak power to 155 kW and a generous torque increase of 70 Nm for a total of 350 Nm. The changes also contribute to a 14% reduction in average fuel consumption (6.6 l/100km) and reduced levels of CO2 emissions (154 g/km). The range has been further simplified with the loss of the TTS model, however, the Audi TT RS will be available with an S tronic transmission from early 2011. Against the clock, the six-speed manual TT Coupé does 0 – 100 km/h in 6.6 seconds and has a top speed of 245 km/h. The manual equipped TT Roadster achieves the same in 6.7 seconds and top speed is 242 km/h. The latest Audi TT has been given a more aggressive front bumper and air intakes, revised rear bumpers and new alloy wheels. In addition, the radiator grille is finished in polished black with a re-styled single frame and the front fog lights receive a chrome surround. The interior remains unchanged, with standard equipment such as bluetooth compatible cell phone preparation; onboard computer with efficiency programme that displays fuel saving measures; heat protective coating applied to the leather trim; and a multi-function steering wheel (with paddle shifters on S tronic models). Pricing starts from R423 730 for the TT 2.0T FSI Coupé with manual transmission.
Tuning company Mansory is branching out with their first ever tuning package for the Maserati brand. Mansory have given the Maserati GranTurismo and GranTurismo S models a coat of bright mandarin orange paintwork, to highlight their latest project. Exterior modifications are all done in carbon fibre and include: a redesigned front bumper fascia with lower lip spoiler; radiator grille surround trim; bonnet with front air scoop; side skirts; boot lid spoiler; rear bumper apron inlay for integrated exhaust pipes; and a rear diffuser. A set of sport springs were added, which lowers the cars by around 30 mm. Forged alloy wheels are also offered by Mansory, which can be coloured to match the vehicle’s paint work. The interior also receives the Mansory touch with their own brand of upholstery. Chequered stitching, aluminium pedals and new ergonomically designed sports steering wheel are the visual highlights. A 22 kW increase in engine output comes courtesy of an optimised ECU, high-flow air filter and sports exhaust system, contributing to a total of 345 kW for than GranTurismo S model.
