TOYOTA Sienna 2015

TOYOTA Camry 2015

TOYOTA Corolla 2015

LAMBORGHINI

LAMBORGHINI ASTERION REVEALED JUST AHEAD OF PARIS DEBUT

Previous ImageNext Image

Lamborghini unveils Asterion concept.

With supercar manufacturer such as Ferrari, Porsche, and McLaren using hybrid technology to enhance their current crop of hypercars, it was just a matter of time before Lamborghini caught on to the theme. Now, as the Paris Motor Show open, the company’s unveiled the Asterion LPI 910-4 concept.

The Asterion (it’s name is derived from the Minotaur of Greek mythology – a half man, half bull hybrid) boasts an angular design with Blue Elektra glittering paint finish and sits on 20-inch (front) and 21-inch (rear) carbon-fibre wheels wrapped in Pirelli rubber.

It makes use of the same 5,2-litre normally aspirated V10 which produces 449 kW and is paired with three electric motors that produces an extra 220 kW. Overall, the system boasts a combined power output of 669 kW.

Thanks to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and all-wheel drive, the Asterion accelerates to 100 km/h from rest in just three seconds hit a top speed of 320 km/h. What’s even more impressive is that the Asterion can hit 125 km/h on electric power alone, with a range of 50 km. It’s combined fuel consumption is claimed to be just 4,2 litres/100 km, with CO2 emissions of just 98 g/km.

HONDA MOBILIO

HONDA MOBILIO JOINS THE MINI-MPV FRAY

Honda Mobilio pricing released

Just when mini MPVs seemed doomed to extinction by the crossover horde, Honda’s launched the seven-seater Mobilio to rival the Suzuki Ertiga and Toyota Avanza in the affordable people-mover segment.

The Mobilio is powered a 1,5-litre four cylinder 16-valve engine equipped with the i-VTEC intelligent variable valve-timing system (the same unit that does duty in the Ballade). It has peak outputs of 88 kW/145 N.m and is mated with a five-speed gearbox (a CVT option will be offered from early 2015).

Despite its comparatively compact footprint, the Mobilio is said to “offer sedan-like space, but with the benefit of three seating rows”. The 60:40-split second-seat row has a slide and recline function and the second row can fold down in one motion, making access to the rear seating easier.

The third-seat row is split 50:50 with a reclining function, and offers ample legroom. Both seat rows can be folded flat and tumbled forward to maximise cargo space. Even with all seats in place, the Mobilio will accomodate 223 dm³ of cargo, which increases to 521 dm³ with the third row folded down.

The 1,5 Trend is the entry-level model and its exterior treatment includes colour-coded bumpers, an integrated rear spoiler and 15-inch steel wheels.

Inside, there are three cup holders and four bottle holders, a lidded glovebox and key-operated central locking, electric front and rear windows, height-adjustable headlights, and tilt-adjustable steering wheel are fitted.

The 1,5 Comfort includes all the standard features of the Trend version, but externally, the model gains colour-coded door handles and exterior mirrors, and is equipped with mud flaps as standard. The interior features chromed air vent rings, and metallic finishes for the door handles, gearknob and multi-function steering wheel accents. The centre stack is fitted with an integrated, MP3-compatible audio system with both USB and auxiliary inputs.

In addition, the Comfort is equipped with air-conditioning (with separate vents for rear occupants), remote central locking, electrically adjustable exterior mirrors, a rear screen wiper, and a 12V socket in the centre console for charging personal devices such as mobile phones, tablets and music players.

In terms of the Honda’s active and passive safety equipment, Mobilio models feature dual front airbags, front inertia reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners and load limiters, inertia reel seatbelts for the two outer second-row passengers and third-row occupants, and a lap belt for the second-row middle passenger. Head restraints are fitted to all seating positions, the firm says.

Over and above a 3-year/100 000 km warranty, the Comfort will also be offered with a 2-year/30 000 km service plan. Service intervals are every one year/15 000 km.

Pricing:Honda Mobilio 1,5 Trend: R179 990
Honda Mobilio 1,5 Comfort: R198 990

Subaru Forester 2015

prev

next