Weekly SA Motoring News wrap-up
Porsche 718 flagship models now available with automatic transmission
The Porsche 718 models with 4.0-litre six-cylinder boxer engines can now be ordered with the seven-speed Porsche dual-clutch transmission (PDK). The automatic transmission is now available for the 718 Boxster and 718 Cayman GTS 4.0, the range-topping 718 Spyder as well as the 718 Cayman GT4 models. Drivers can enjoy no interruptions in acceleration during gear changes and better acceleration values. Compared with the 718 models featuring a manual transmission, the 420 PS (309 kW) GT models – the 718 Spyder and 718 Cayman GT4 ¬– now accelerate from 0-100 km/h half a second faster, in 3.9 seconds. They reach the 200 km/h mark in 13.4 seconds (0.4 seconds faster). The 718 Cayman GTS 4.0 and 718 Boxster GTS 4.0, both with 400 PS (294 kW), also improve in the standard sprint from 0-100 km/h by half a second to 4.0 seconds, and reach the 200 km/h mark in 13.7 seconds (0.4 seconds faster compared with the manual transmission).
Ford SA and Government break ground on Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone
The innovative new R3.4-billion Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ), which was officially announced in November 2019 by South African president Cyril Ramaphosa and Gauteng Premier David Makhura, is forging ahead with extensive clearing of the site, groundworks and the installation of bulk infrastructure currently underway.
Volkswagen’s Amarok Double Cab bakkie gets a power boost
In the last quarter of 2020, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles will be introducing its most powerful bakkie yet, the Amarok Double Cab with 190kW of power. The Amarok range which was launched in South Africa in 2010, has sold almost 35 000 units (single and double cab) in the local market. The Amarok Double Cab was Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ best-selling derivative last year with 2 596 vehicles sold. As of November 2020, the Amarok model range in South Africa, Namibia and Botswana will consist of the following engines; the 2.0 TDI 103kW, 2.0 BiTDI 132kW and the 3.0 TDI V6 190kW.
Maserati MC20 revealed
With the MC20, Maserati returns to a stage where it has always starred, that of Supercars that combine luxury and performance with the unique Maserati Style. The MC20 is a Maserati with mind-blowing aerodynamic efficiency. Its superb looks conceal an uncompromisingly sporty soul, with the new 630 horsepower (463 kW) V6 Nettuno engine that delivers 0-100 km/h acceleration in under 2,9 seconds and a top speed over 325 km an hour. A patented, 100% Maserati engine, benefiting from the MTC (Maserati Twin Combustion) technology, the innovative combustion system developed by the Brand, evolved from the pre-chamber technology used on Formula 1 powertrains. Conceived, designed and built entirely in-house.
New wheel and Tyre plant and Ford's Silverton plant opened
In its ongoing drive to improve production efficiencies and capacity, Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa (FMCSA) has launched a new Wheel and Tyre Facility at its Silverton Assembly Plant in Pretoria, which produces the Ranger pickup and Everest sport utility vehicle (SUV) for domestic sales and over 100 export markets around the world.
Mitsubishi Motors South Africa extends special offer
Mitsubishi Motors South Africa has gone to great lengths to bring its range of popular, powerful and luxury compact and full-size sport utility vehicles in its range within reach of its loyal customer base and new buyers. They have extended their range of special offers into Spring, including no-deposit deals, R70 000 deal assistance offers and a R65 000 discount on one of their most popular models to date,
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