Drive360 - Edition 3

DRIVE360 ISSUE 3: OCTOBER 2020

POWERED BY IOL MOTORING

RISE OF THE TRIDENT

THE PERFORMANCE EDITION

CONTENTS

CONTACT US PUBLISHER | Vasantha Angamuthu vasantha@africannewsagency.com DRIVE360 EDITOR | Pritesh Ruthun pritesh.ruthun@inl.co.za EXECUTIVE SPORTS EDITOR | Ian Smit ian.smit@inl.co.za DESIGN | Sandhip Roy Sing sandhip.sing@inl.co.za BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT | Keshni Odayan keshni.odayan@inl.co.za SALES Charl Reineke | charl.reineke@inl.co.za Kyle Villet | kyle.villet@africannewsagency.com

8

GENERAL ENQUIRIES | info@anapublishing.com

4 INDUSTRY INSIGHTS 4 RISE OF THE TRIDENT 6

“HONEY, THEY SHRUNK THE SUPERCAR” 10

16

ELECTRIFY YOUR DRIVING EXPERIENCE 12

FORBIDDEN FRUIT: CARS WE WISH WERE SOLD IN SA 16

M3 OR M4 FOR YOUR DREAM GARAGE? 14

READERS RIDE: HONDA CIVIC VTEC 18

21

27

PERFORMANCE: IT’S IN OUR BLOOD 21 HOT WHEELS & BIG CATS 24

PERFORMANCE CAR NEWS 27

D360 PRESENTS: SPORTS STARS & CARS 26

VICTORY FOR KING KATRA 32

EDITOR’S NOTE

sh e t i r P 12

WELCOME to the Performance Edition.

At Drive360, we love all sorts of automobiles, but there’s no denying that our favourite cars are performance cars.

The cool thing is, performance cars come in so many shapes and sizes these days that we are really spoilt for choice as consumers.

In this edition, we’re highlighting some of the coolest performance cars of all time and on the cover you would have seen, arguably, one of the coolest performance cars of the year. I’m talking of the achingly beautiful Maserati MC20 supercar. We dive into some of the reasons why we think it’s one of the cars worth waiting for if you’re in the market for something fresh and exotic for your garage.

We also unpack some of the cars that we really wish were sold in South Africa and pay tribute to some of our favourite SA-only performance cars, and guess what, there’s no “Gusheshe” on our list.

From the electrifying Porsche Taycan Turbo S to the scintillating Mercedes AMG A45S to a modified Civic VTEC Turbo, there’s so much performance to ingest in this edition, we rather have you move on … I trust you enjoy the read.

Pritesh

insights

INDUSTRY | Freepik.com

Lockdown… has it changed our car-buying patterns?

PRITESH RUTHUN

NEW vehicle sales have continued to establish firmer ground, recording the third consecutive month of growth since lockdown. The slow resurgence of sales comes off the back of reduced lockdown level regulations as the country entered level 1 during September.

Year-on-year results for the past three months have shifted from 29.6% in July, down to 26.3% in August, then to 23.9% in September. According to the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (Naamsa), 37 403 new vehicles were sold during September, up 3 888 units from August.

Lockdown, however, has affected every single South African – on so many levels.

One of the most interesting impacts has been the change in car-buying patterns.

According to George Mienie, AutoTrader chief executive, it is interesting to see how preferences have changed during lockdown. “The 2020 AutoTrader Car Industry Report reveals which cars were the most searched for pre- and during-lockdown. When one compares this to search data during lockdown level 2 (August 18 to September 20), there are some distinct differences.”

One of the most interesting trends was the substantial growth in searches for the Volkswagen Golf – whereas it was the fourth most searched for vehicle before lockdown, it shot up into first position during level 5 and level 4. “This could have something to do with the affordability

of the Golf. According to the AutoTrader report, the average selling price of the Golf over the past year was R288 049 while the average selling price of the Hilux was R327 807. The dominance of the Golf during lockdown could indicate that motorists were under financial pressure and wanted to minimise their spending on a car,” Mienie maintains.

However, there was an exception to this rule in the form of the Porsche 911 which was the 10th most searched for car during lockdown. “The 911 is periodically in the top 10 list of most searched for cars – yet it did appear during lockdown. Maybe motorists were dreaming of better times to come, or maybe they were just wanting to have some fun during what was a very difficult time for us all,” Mienie suggests.

The data also reveals lower search statistics for the Ford Ranger compared to its competitors. “According to the 2020 AutoTrader Car Industry Report, the Ford Ranger was the top-selling used car, contributing 4.7% of all cars sold, at an average selling price of R305 944, an average mileage of 85 948km and an average year model of 2016. Yet it was the fifth most searched for vehicle during all three periods,” Mienie says.

While the exact reasoning behind the search data is hypothetical, Mienie says that one thing is certain: “Lockdown has had an enormous impact on the lives of motorists (and indeed all South Africans). It has greatly impacted the used car market too. Hopefully, those challenging times are now behind us.”

TOP 10 MOST SEARCHED MODELS: DURING LOCKDOWN

TOP 10 MOST SEARCHED MODELS: DURING LOCKDOWN LEVEL 2 AUGUST 18 - SEPTEMBER 10

TOP 10 MOST SEARCHED MODELS: PRE-LOCKDOWN

“Good cars get you from point A to point B. Great cars…Well they just get you into trouble.”

- Unknown

RISE OF THE TRIDENT

PRITESH RUTHUN

MASERATI’S new MC20 supercar is a long-awaited answer to the mesmerising Ferrari 488, outrageous Lamborghini Huracan and ravishing Audi R8.

It’s the freshest of the aforementioned bunch and it comes packing a new F1-inspired engine and exterior styling that make it an ideal fit for the next Tron film.

I can picture it – Kevin Flynn blasting down The Grid at top speed; flames, smoke, adrenalin pumping…

In fact, when discussing this car with a colleague a couple of weeks ago, we came to the conclusion that the MC20 is so photogenic that it would basically fit in any motion picture in any role; perhaps a Bond villain’s car? Heck, I can even see it as an Autobot in the next Transformers film.

In the real world, however, far away from the fantasy of motion pictures, the Maserati MC20 brings genuinely refreshing technologies to the market, while at the same time instantly raises the profile of Maserati as a genuine alternative in the world of high-end motoring.

It’s fast. It’s low. It’s dripping hot.

Here are four reasons why we think the new Maserati MC20 is the supercar of the moment and why it should be your next supercar…

4) IT’S A DIGITALLY-HONED DRIVER’S CAR

Some 97% of the MC20’s development was performed virtually, using a system called Virtual Vehicle Dynamics Development, developed by Maserati and based on a complex mathematical model called Virtual Car, into which every conceivable parameter is entered (the engineers assure us it can also take what the driver had for breakfast into account). According to Maserati, Virtual development reduces delivery times and allows for an optimal technical solution to be identified faster, and with lower costs.

For example, it is possible for engineers to assess three different shock absorber solutions in a virtual world and subsequently choose the most suitable set-up within a short period of time.

Naturally, the final tuning of the MC20 took place on the track in Varano, and on the Apennine mountain roads above Modena, which have always been the Maserati proving grounds, so expect it to be the best handling Maserati ever made.

3) SUPERCAR BLOAT IS KEPT TO A MINIMUM

While most sports cars and supercars these days are gaining weight, Maserati set out to ensure that the MC20 tips the scales at no more than 1 500kg. That’s still a loft of mass for a supercar, but considering the sheer luxuriousness of the vehicle and the tech that’s packed into it, they’ve done well to meet weight targets.

Thanks to its power output of 463kW, Maserati claims it has the best power to weight ratio too, which should make it one of the fastest accelerating cars the brand has ever made. This lightweight pursuit was achieved without sacrificing anything in terms of comfort and luxury. The entire chassis is cast in carbon fibre and composites, bringing the benefits of lighter weight overall, while the carbon fibre body parts enabled the creation of shapes considered impossible with press-formed metal. The car’s gorgeous butterfly doors, for instance, hint at how the designers managed to create a stylistic masterpiece without turning it into a beefy-looking, angular, gaping-intake, big-wing, ungainly thing.

1) SCREAMING, TURBOCHARGED V6 HEART 2) IT CUTS THROUGH THE AIR WITH PRECISION

The new Maserati MC20 spent more than two thousand hours in Formula One specialist Dallara’s wind tunnel and it underwent more than a thousand CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) simulations. It’s this dedicated aero development that has enabled the creation of a supercar with refined aerodynamics, which is arguably a genuine work of art, they say.

The MC20’s aerodynamic design divides the car into two parts: an upper part where stylistic considerations take precedent and a more technical lower part, colour-coded in black and carbon fibre respectively.

What’s more, there are no obvious Performante or RS-style wings here: just a discreet rear spoiler that enhances the up-washing generated by the floor and enhances the downforce.

Thanks to the almost obsessive care taken over the development of all the car’s aero features, the MC20 generates a high aerodynamic load with low drag, enabling it to reach a top speed beyond 325km/h.

So we get to the best bit. The MC20’s 90° V6 engine displaces 3.0 litres and it’s mounted midships, behind the driver and passenger, in true supercar tradition. They call the engine “Nettuno”, and it’s an absolute masterpiece.

Maserati is very clear that this engine hasn’t been lifted out of a Ferrari nor is it a hotter version of Alfa Romeo’s Giulietta QV; it is a Maserati engine, 100% made in Modena.

It also happens to be the highest-powered V6 power plant in production and the most powerful road-going Maserati you can buy.

Designed component by component by the engine specialists of the Maserati technical department, with constant support from the Modena Innovation Lab, it boasts some of the most advanced technology of any road car engine on today’s market.

There are three main components to consider when it comes to the new MC20’s engine: i) The pre-chamber: a combustion chamber placed between the central spark plug and the conventional combustion chamber, to which it is connected by a series of specially shaped holes. ii) The side spark plug: a standard spark plug that provides back-up to ensure smooth engine combustion in operating conditions when the use of the pre-chamber is not necessary. iii) The dual (indirect and direct) injection system: combined with the fuel delivery pressure of 350 bar, it reduces noise at low rpm, cuts emissions and saves fuel.

The Nettuno engine makes 463kW and 730Nm, and is mated to a special 8-speed oil-immersed Dual Clutch Transmission, that rockets the car to 100km/h from a standstill in 3 seconds.

CONSIDER THIS

As far as carmakers go, Maserati has arguably been through the worst of times and the best of times, both as an automotive manufacturer and as a racing outfit.

The brand is now looking to the future, a brighter one, with the MC20 leading the charge as an opening salvo of things to come.

Light, fast, sleek, with drama and presence, the MC20 is not going to be for everyone and if you’re truly seeking an out-and-out track weapon, then look elsewhere. This is, in our opinion, ‘the’ supercar that you can take on the long road, albeit you must pack lightly as it’s not a GT car by any measure, if you consider the performance potential on offer.

Prices have not been confirmed for South Africa just yet, but you must act fast to secure a build slot. Our local Maserati insiders say deposits have been secured for five bespoke MC20 models that should arrive in South Africa next year. We can’t wait to hear it sing and tell you more about it once we drive the thing.

SPECIFICATIONS MAKE: Maserati MODEL: MC20 ENGINE: 3.0-litre V6, Twin-turbo petrol POWER: 463kW at 7 500rpm TORQUE: 730Nm at 3 000rpm GEARBOX: 8-speed double-clutch 0-100km/h: 3 seconds TOP SPEED: 325km/h+ PRICE: R7.5 million (estimated)

‘Honey, they shrunk the supercar’ It might not be a low slung, two-door, fire-breathing monster, but the AMG A45 S might just be the ideal supercar…

WILLEM VAN DE PUTTE

SUPERCARS remain only a dream for most of the world’s population but they remain sculptured beauties and aspirational masterpieces that are used as screen-savers, wall posters, paper weights and even computer mouses.

The Lamborghini Miura, produced from 19661973, is often said to be the first supercar and from there manufacturers have continued to produce cars that not only look beautiful (here, though, often beauty is in the eye of the beholder) but produce crazy performance figures too.

And that’s still with the internal combustion engine, wait till battery technology improves and range anxiety has been addressed and the figures will be through the roof, but that’s a story for another day though.

Think Ferrari, Lamborghini, Porsche, Maserati, McLaren, Aston Martin, Koenigsegg and Bugatti and your heart begins to race and kidneys turn to water when you glance through the pricing catalogues.

Supercar equals super performance for super money, even in the pre-owned market.

It’s an exclusive club that not many of us will be privy to, not to mention the assumed improved personal value attached to mentioning that you’ll be coming round for drinks in the Lambo.

Cynics and traditional supercar manufacturers aside, though, in the last few years brands

such as Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz have had customers drooling over their supercar challengers.

Question is: should a car like the Mercedes A45 S 4MATIC+ be placed in the same category?

The short answer is no… even though the performance numbers and technology put supercars of a decade or two ago to shame and of course it’s a hatch.

What the A45 S 4MATIC+ is, however, is a car that makes a lot more sense than forking out a few million rand for the sake of having a thrilling drive.

You see, what the engineers at Mercedes have done borders almost on genius.

How else do you explain squeezing 310kW and 500Nm out of a four-cylinder turbocharged engine that will get you to 100km/h in 3.9 seconds?

And I tell you what: you’ll be grinning from ear to ear at a track day because it’s just so much fun to drive. Power is transmitted via Mercedes’ eightspeed DCT transmission and because you know they have spent thousands of hours perfecting it to work in sync with the engine and drivetrain even in RACE mode, there’s very little chance of a mechanical failure.

The launch control has no fancy electronics.

Simply put your left foot on the brake and right foot down on the accelerator, release the brake

and it borders on brutal the way it slams you into the seats and changes gears as the rev counter hits the red-line and the exhaust hits all the right notes.

Sure, it doesn’t have a growl like a V6 or V8 but the snap crackle and pop you get gearing down and flooring it out of a corner with the 4Matic system keeping you honest, easily makes up for it.

And when everything’s cooled down you can easily put four people in and fit the day’s gear in the back as you leave past the 2+2 and two-seater supercars.

If a hatch isn’t to your liking though, there’s always the CLA 45 S 4MATIC+ with pretty much the same performance figures in a very elegant

design.

Don’t get me wrong. A supercar will always be something very special and placing a key with the prancing horse logo on the counter will get you a lot of attention from petrolheads and anyone who’s vaguely heard of Ferrari Red. However the little A45 S 4MATIC+ is a fantastic and fun introduction to the world of speed and handling. Throw in a couple of niceto-have options, and for about R1.3 million, you may not be the envy of a McLaren owner, but a guaranteed smile will be worth a million bucks. ● Thanks to @SupercarsInAfrica and @ autocar for the shots.

ELECTRIFY your driving experience

With so many electric options coming to SA, here’s why an EV like the new Porsche Taycan might not be a bad idea if you can afford it...

WILLEM VAN DE PUTTE

THE future is now.

Well, as far as electric cars are concerned anyway.

As government and corporate legislation continues to put pressure on vehicle manufacturers to be less reliant on fossil fuel, much of their R&D budget is being spent on electric vehicles.

There isn’t one car maker in the world today that doesn’t have an EV programme in place in some way.

Hell, there’s even an electric Ford Mustang on the cards.

Whether it be fully electric by a specific date or, like Porsche, who have three distinct areas of focus: internal combustion, hybrid and fully electric.

We recently spent a day with their all-electric Taycan which, at its international launch last year, had people grasping for their glasses to confirm the statistics. The top of the range Turbo S, with a motor above the front and rear axle, pumps out 560kW with its overboost function and, get it all to work in sync – you have 1 050Nm! That will silently propel you to 100km/h in 2.8 seconds and will get you further than an F1 car in 2.6 seconds to give you an idea of its acceleration.

And for speed freaks, that’s nirvana which you may get to use very rarely on a back road or at a track day and, at just over R4 million that’s a lot of money even for a Porsche. The base model 4S is just under R2.5 million and the middle of the range model is R3.4 million. Driving normally should give you a range of about 400km.

The question is whether once you’ve done the school run and stopped to buy groceries, and got on with the daily grind that is life, can you live with an electric car as your prime mover in this country?

My first thoughts were no, not really, but depending on your bank balance you probably can.

They aren’t cheap and, if you want a good looking efficient EV with decent range like Jaguar’s award-winning I-Pace, you won’t get a lot of change from R2 million.

There’s the option of the electric Mini Cooper that’s well over R600 000 and, while mini claims a range of about

217km on a full charge, when we recently tested it, it showed 175km fully charged.

South African’s are an impatient lot at the best of times and having to plug in a car, even for half an hour, to get some juice just isn’t on our radar.

Owning an EV will need a paradigm shift in how you go about your day. Sure, you can plug it in at home every night like we do with our phones, irrespective of how much power is left, but you can’t be late for an appointment and quickly throw in a few R100 at the closest garage and zoom off.

Manufacturers are working on putting charging infrastructure in place for long hauls between cities on our national highways, but that’s an expensive exercise and, for

now at least, very limited.

They’re also talking to government about an EV programme because, among other things, there is no incentive in any way for manufacturers to import electric cars, which adds to the price prohibitive entrance for prospective owners.

And in case you’ve just beamed down from Mars, right now the South African Government has a list of urgent priorities so long, that EV and everything associated with it doesn’t even make a blimp on the radar.

So yes, you can live with an EV as an everyday car locally but, in reality, it’s for a privileged few because as things stand, the average age of our car park is 12 years and rising.

M3 OR M4 FOR YOUR DREAM GARAGE? Say what you want about the rather odd-looking kidney grilles on the new M Cars, you can’t fault them for bringing a promising, fresh take on performance in the segment...

Follow us on social media for the latest pricing on the new M3 and M4 as it breaks. @iolmotoring @drive360 @jason.woosey

JASON WOOSEY

AS promised, BMW has whipped the covers off its new M3 and M4 performance cars and not only are they set to stand apart from their rivals with dramatic new styling, but they’re also set to be the only cars in their segment to offer the option of a manual transmission.

However, South Africans looking for a more puristic driving experience won’t get to join in the fun as the sixspeed manual gearbox is only offered in the “regular” M3 and M4 models, and these won’t be offered locally. As has become the norm with M cars in South Africa, only the competition versions will be offered, and you can expect them to arrive during the first half of 2021.

While all versions of the new BMW M3 and M4 are powered by a new-generation three-litre straight-six turbo petrol engine, as before, the standard and Competition models have different power outputs, although both have considerably more urge.

The M3 and M4 Competition models are now good for 375kW at 6 250rpm and 650Nm between 2 750 and 5 500 revs, which is 44kW and 100Nm more than before and that, says BMW, is enough to get you from 0-100km/h in 3.9 seconds. An eight-speed M Steptronic transmission is part of the deal here.

The regular M3 and M4 derivatives with manual transmission have listed outputs of 353kW at 6 250rpm and 550Nm between 2 650 and 6 130 revs, and drivers who’ve honed their snap-changing skills will get their cars from 0-100km/h in as little as 4.2 seconds, according to claims.

All M3 and M4 models retain their predecessors’ rearwheel drive layout, but the Competition models will be available with all-wheel drive from mid-2021. Working in tandem with the Active M Differential, the all-paw system will have a rear-biased set-up and drivers will be able to choose from three modes: 4WD, 4WD Sport and 2WD for pure rear‑wheel drive – and deactivated stability control.

While the drive configurations will differ, all M3 and M4

M3

M4 models will ship with M-specific suspension with adaptive damping, and M Servotronic steering with variable ratio. M Compound brakes will be standard, but buyers will be able to opt for M Carbon ceramic anchors if desired.

Drivers will also have a bit more control over the traction

control system this time, with the DSC system now offering ten selectable modes, as well as integrated wheel slip limitation.

As for the rims, the Competition derivatives come with a 19-inch-front, 20-inch-rear combination, while the regular cars have an 18” 19” combo.

Of course, when it comes to visual differentiation, there’s a lot more than just wheels to set them apart from the normal 3 Series and 4 Series models, particularly in the case of the M3, which inherits the large vertical grille format from the latest 4 Series. These models do, however, wear an M-specific version of that grille, featuring horizontal slats, and the M models are also distinguished by sculpted wheel arches with M gills, side sill extensions, front and rear apron extensions and a rear spoiler.

Step inside and you’ll find newly developed M sports seats, upholstered in Merino leather, but BMW is also offering M Carbon bucket seats, with a structure-based design as an optional extra. The cockpit area includes M-specific displays and controls, while the M-specific set-up button provides direct access to the settings for the car’s dynamic systems.

Making its debut in the new M3 and M4 is a system called M Drive Professional, which was created specifically for circuit driving. It includes an M Drift Analyser, which rates your cornering antics, as well as an M lap timer.

The rest of the electronic arsenal is largely as per the latest 3 Series and 4 Series models, with BMW’s 7.0 operating system serving as the central information hub.

BMW’s fully digital Live Cockpit Professional package is standard, along with the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant.

The company has also expanded the range of standard driver assistance systems which, among others, includes front collision and lane departure warning systems, as well as park distance control. Optional gizmos include the Driving Assistant Professional with steering and lane Control Assistant, Active Navigation, Emergency Lane Assistant and a Head-Up Display with M-specific displays.

FORBIDDEN FRUIT: Cars we wish were sold in SA ● Follow IOL MOTORING on Instagram for the latest performance car news



1. DODGE CHALLENGER HELLCAT

Want to make that Mustang up the road look like a sick mule? All it takes is some Hellcat fury, although that’s only if you live in the United States, that is. Dodge has taken the muscle car to a whole new level with its Challenger SRT Hellcat line-up, which Americans can order in a multitude of flavours, priced from $60 695 upwards, which equated to a shade over a million rand at the time of writing.

Buyers can choose between a standard SRT Hellcat with 535kW or a Hellcat Redeye with 594kW and both are available in standard or widebody formats. While the 626kW Demon has been banished, there is apparently a 602kW Super Stock Challenger on the way for 2021. Dodge also offers a four-door alternative to the Challenger, in the form of the Charger SRT Hellcat.

All are powered by a 6.2-litre supercharged Hemi V8 powerhouse with a rear-wheel drive configuration, that has made the Challenger a tyre-smoking celebrity on YouTube. Customers can also choose between manual and eight-speed automatic transmissions. The Demon, incidentally, also became the world’s first production car to lift its front wheels under acceleration, as certified by Guinness World Records.

2. FORD FIESTA ST

JASON WOOSEY

DESPITE being a relatively small market, South Africa still has a very decent selection of performance cars, but there are still a lot of exciting options available globally that don’t reach our shores, usually because they’re left-handdrive only. Without further ado, these are our favourite pieces of performance car forbidden fruit:



Back in the day, the original Ford Fiesta ST was one of our favourite pocket rockets, but sadly Ford South Africa no longer imports it.

Those who love the off-beat hum of a three-cylinder engine would be in for a treat if the latest Fiesta ST ever came to South Africa. It’s 1.5-litre turbocharged engine produces 147kW and 290Nm, making it one of the most powerful three-pot powertrains in the world.

0-100km/h? Expect that to come up in just 6.7 seconds.

Drivers can now choose between three drive modes that affect the engine, exhaust, steering as well as stability control, with Normal for everyday driving, Sport for fast roads and Track mode for, well, you know. Traction control is disabled completely in this mode, while the electronic stability control is set to wideslip mode, and can be switched off completely through a separate switch. A torque vectoring system is also in place to help you slice those tight bends with minimal understeer.









3. CHEVROLET CORVETTE STINGRAY

5. TESLA MODEL S P100D

4. CUPRA LEON

6. HYUNDAI VELOSTER N

Chevrolet’s Corvette recently underwent its most radical transformation ever, with the 2020 Stingray having shifted from a front to a mid-engined layout. This set-up is often considered to be the holy grail of sports car configurations, as it allows better responsiveness, balance and sense of control, as the driver sits closer to the front axle.

This all sounds very exotic, but it’s interesting to note that the Corvette is actually quite affordable in its home market, with prices starting at just under $60 000 (R1 million) in the US. Power is provided by a new-generation normally aspirated 6.2-litre “Small Block” V8 LT2 engine that produces 369kW and 637Nm, when equipped with the performance exhaust. It powers the back wheels through Chevrolet’s first eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox and 0-96km/h is said to come up in 2.9 seconds.

There is talk of a right-hand drive version for Australia but, with General Motors having abandoned our market, the new ‘Vette will remain forbidden fruit to South Africans. That is unless an independent importer strikes a deal of some kind…

If you’re a hot hatch fan then you’ll certainly remember the Seat Leon Cupra that was available briefly in South Africa, between 2006 and 2008, until the VW-owned Spanish brand’s bungled pricing strategy sent it home.

But Seat’s Cupra badge has continued to evolve in Europe.

In fact it’s become a brand in its own right. One of the first products to emerge from this stable is the Cupra Leon, which is based on the latest generation of the VW Golf’s spanish cousin.

Customers can choose from three 2-litre TSI turbopetrol engine options, all paired with DSG dual-clutch gearboxes, and with outputs of 180kW, 221kW and 228kW. The latter, however, is only available with the wagon body style, paired with an allwheel drive system, which can launch from 0-100km/h in under five seconds.

Those wanting a greener option can also opt for a Cupra Leon plug-in hybrid model, which pairs VW’s 1.4 TSI unit to an electric motor, for system outputs of 180kW and 400Nm.

A decade or two ago, we would never have imagined that one of the world’s fastest accelerating cars would be a rather unassuming looking large electric sedan, from a start-up owned by Elon Musk.

But the Tesla Model S, like many modern electric performance cars, has been turning heads at drag strips with its instantaneous acceleration, that has sent many a muscle car home with a bruised ego.

With a zero to 100km/h acceleration time of 2.3 seconds when in Ludicrous Mode. Incidentally, there is an electric saloon being launched in South Africa soon, that comes very close to matching the Tesla’s acceleration time, and that is none other than the Porsche Taycan Turbo S, although it is set to cost a cool R4 million.

The Tesla P100D’s driving range is not too shabby either, with the American carmaker claiming it’ll manage 560km between charges. However, go for the Long Range model and you could get up to 647km between charges.

The P100D costs $89 490 in the US, about R1.5 million.

South African performance hatch fans have just been treated to the most exciting Hyundai to ever hit local shores, with the recent launch of the i30 N. But there is something even more enticing available overseas in the form of the Veloster N. While its engine is essentially the same, producing 205kW, the Veloster is set apart by its quirkier styling, with an asymmetrical design that places a single door on one side of the vehicle and two on the other. Unlike the current i30 N, the Veloster N is also available with Hyundai’s eight-speed dualclutch automated gearbox.

To keep it honest in the bends, the Veloster N features upgraded brakes and suspension, with electronicallycontrolled suspension with a track-focused N mode, and an electronically-controlled N Corner-Carving Limited-slip Differential.

At this stage, it’s not known whether the Veloster will make a comeback in South Africa, but there is a good chance that the updated version of its i30 N hatch cousin will find its way here.

Honda Civic V T

EC

READERS RIDE

PRITESH RUTHUN

FOR MOST petrolheads and car enthusiasts, their love for a particular car can be traced to a specific poster on their bedroom wall, a die-cast model given as a gift (maybe), or that car’s role in a film or game.

For me, it’s the Lamborghini Diablo VT; the ultimate machine that I hope to one day own because it was my poster car on my bedroom wall, and it was my first “special” die-cast car, which I still have to this day.

For Jesse Moonsammy, however, it wasn’t a wall-poster or a child’s toy or a pop culture experience... it was the kick of VTEC that sparked his flame for Honda.

“In all honesty, I was never a fan of Honda, in fact, I hated the brand until I drove this car for the first time about a decade ago. That was the moment when I fell in love with Honda, VTEC and this Civic,” he says.

Moonsammy’s passion for cars started at a very young age, recounting his experiences growing up around his father’s workshop for the past 35 years. “His very first workshop was at home, so growing up I’d always find myself around cars. He built a lot of performance cars and always took me to the local drag stop, back then called Rainbow Raceway. Ever since I’ve had a strong passion for fast cars,” he says.

VTEC YO!

THE Honda Civic that Moonsammy is completely smitten with was launched in South Africa in the late 90s, giving us a slight taste of what JDM Type Rs might have felt like back then.

This 1997 model came from the factory with a 1.6-litre in-line four-cylinder that made 118kW at a heady 9 000rpm.

At the time, reviewers praised the car for its thrill and engagement factor, but they didn’t like its lack of torque.

Nevertheless, the Honda Civic (EK) VTEC gained infamy over the years, in its prime as the key thorn in the side of the Toyota Corolla RSi and the Nissan Sentra 200 STi. “My car was originally owned by a close friend. It was silver in colour back when he owned it, but it had been parked for about four years. I decided to make him an offer on the car, and started the journey of restoring it six years ago,” he explains.

There’s a very long list of goodies that make Moonsammy’s 1997 Honda Civic VTEC coupe unique, including a custom paint job as well as a flushed boot lid with relocated number plate holder.

“We also cut unique ‘tiger stripes’ in the rear bumper that allows air to flow through cleanly, preventing unwanted air pressure build-up and turbulence at the rear of the car at higher speeds. The Civic also wears custom Lexus-style taillights and a boot-wing lift-kit,” he notes.

BESPOKE TOUCHES

You’ll also notice that this car is fitted with custom BMW M3 look-alike side mirrors and custom-cut fender vents. Other nifty additions to the Civic include chassis-strengthening, the addition of racing braces and a front-splitter that’s been appropriated from a 1997 Subaru Impreza STI. “To top things off, I’ve fitted 17-inch XXR concave alloy wheels, wrapped in 205/40/17 Falken high-performance tyres,” he says.

You’re probably wondering what’s under the hood, considering the attention to detail given to the body and interior and chassis, right?

Well, Moonsammy’s taken the 1.6-litre VTEC to new

heights thanks to what’s known as a “Frankenstein” B20B VTEC conversion. Essentially, it’s now a 2.0-litre car, helped along the 1/4-mile by a slight bit of forced induction courtesy of a bolt-on T66 turbocharger kit.

In the low boost setting, it’s punching out 260kW on the front wheels.

It’s not all sunshine and roses, however, as we might picture the scene of buying or building our dream car (and driving it off into the sunset happily ever after).

“One of the biggest challenges for me would be sourcing parts for the Civic. A lot of people would think that because it’s an old vehicle, parts would be easily available or cheap.

Also, dealing with scratches and stone chips, especially when having a metallic colour like this, becomes very difficult to maintain” he says.

Moonsammy built the engine himself and takes care of all the car’s servicing and mechanical maintenance on his own.

He says he’s had so many special moments with this car, but even a simple Sunday morning carwash is such a pleasure for him.

WORTH THE BUILD EFFORT

“The best moments I have with my car are the days that I feel down or upset. I get in and drive to nowhere, windows wide open, the radio on mute, just listening to the engine purr. While cruising with the wind blowing, there’s nothing else that could feel better for me,” he adds.

When it comes to plans for the future, he’d like to build another motor for the car, a race-spec engine, with at least 600kW on the wheels similar to what Bisimoto is doing in the US. “I also want to do more work on the interior, maybe add a full roll-cage and custom racing seats. I might also consider a new set of wheels to give the car a whole different look. Who knows!” he exclaims with enthusiasm.

If you would like to know what it’s like to live with a highly-modified Honda Civic VTEC, you can follow @ jessemoonsammy on Facebook and @Jesse_t_jdm on Instagram or for more insights.

PERFORMANCE: It’s in our blood PRITESH RUTHUN & JASON WOOSEY

WHEN it comes to performance cars, South Africans just can’t get enough of them. In fact, even if the car makers themselves don’t offer sporty models of a particular derivative for local consumption, we’ll figure out a way to build our own. Over the past few decades there have been so many special editions of performance cars (built in South Africa for South Africa) that we really are spoilt for choice when it comes to unique performance car experiences. We really had one of the toughest times whittling this list down to our favourite six SA-only performance cars, but in the end we decided to go with the six cars that really stood out in terms of their uniqueness in the world and their rarity.

Without further ado, here’s Drive360’s top six performance cars built in South Africa for South African petrolheads.

• Follow @jasonwoosey and @ pritzthecarguy on Instagram for more weekly performance car insights.

BMW 333I

They say necessity is the mother of invention, and the BMW 333i is certainly an iconic invention on the part of BMW South Africa.

South Africa missed out on the first-generation E30 M3 due to it being available in left-hand drive format only, but that didn’t stop the local division from concocting its own alternative. They teamed up with Alpina in Germany to create the 333i, of which only 200 were produced.

Although the car was based on the 325i of the time, BMW SA didn’t just tinker under the bonnet, instead it squeezed in a much larger 3.2-litre straight six motor from the BMW 733i. It was a tight fit, and the engineers had to do a lot of mechanical McGyvering but, in the end, it all came together. One downside, though, was that customers would have to choose between air conditioning and power steering – there wasn’t room for both!

With 146kW on tap, the 333i was more powerful than the initial versions of the M3 – and yes, that really was a lot of power back in the day. But BMW did more than just throw an engine at the problem. The 333i also received sports suspension, a bespoke close-ratio five-speed manual transmission, upgraded brakes, Alpina 16-inch rims and new cabin decor. (JW)

OPEL KADETT SUPERBOSS

Following on from the “Boss” and “Big Boss” versions of the Kadette, as the 2.0 GSI eight-valve and 16V models were nicknamed, Opel created one of the most legendary hatchbacks, and called it the Superboss.

Back in the late ’80s and early ’90s, South Africa’s Opels were built by Delta Motor Corporation, following GM’s divestment in 1986, and the company wanted a homologation special for Group N racing.

The Superboss packed an impressive punch for the time, with Opel’s 2-litre 16V engine upgraded to produce 125kW and 228Nm. This was made possible by a Cosworth cylinder head, Bosch Motronic fuel injection, Schrick cams and a higher compression ratio, among other mods. The iconic hatch was also treated to lower suspension and a limited slip differential.

The Superboss was a true South African special that also dominated on the race track, with Mike Briggs at the wheel. But being conceived for the circuit, it certainly wasn’t known for its luxury or refinement, but to owners that was a small price to pay for owning one of the coolest hatchbacks.

Only 500 examples of the Superboss were made. The one you see here was found by SentiMETAL in a rather neglected state, but the enthusiastic team then set out to restore it to its original condition. (JW)

ALFA ROMEO GTV6

Like Opel’s Superboss, the Alfa Romeo GTV6 3.0 was a homologation special built by the local division to win at the race track on Sunday, but to do that they also had to build some to sell on Monday.

As a result, just over 200 of the iconic Alfas were built at the Brits facility from 1983 onwards. Producing 128kW and 222Nm, the GTV6 3.0 was the most powerful Alfa Romeo production car at the time.

A bigger engine had been deemed necessary for Alfa to beat BMW’s 535i on the Group One circuit, and the Italian did so in its first race.

The 3.0 was created in collaboration with Autodelta of Italy, with the latter having supplied all the components needed to increase the engine capacity by half a litre. The bits and pieces had been intended for a 3.0 model in Italy, which never saw light of day due to taxation drawbacks.

However, legendary motoring man Roger McCleery, who was Alfa’s PR manager, convinced the MD to get the project under way. Interestingly, the 3.0 also traded the 2.5 model’s fuel injection system for six Dellorto carburetors.

The example in the picture was meticulously restored

by Cars.co.za’s SentiMETAL, an online publication which celebrates iconic classics such as this. (JW)

DAIHATSU MATERIA TURBO

What’s that? A Daihatsu? Heck yes. We love fast, compact Japanese cars and while the Materia Turbo wasn’t the most iconic performance car to be sold in South Africa, it certainly stands out as a unique proposition for anyone seeking hothatch thrills in a rare package.

Just over a decade ago, Daihatsu SA set up a bit of a skunkworks at its head office on the East Rand where its technical team started tinkering with a couple of bog standard Materias. They’d gone shopping for parts from the YRV Turbo catalogue, using the IHI turbo from that car together with its top-mount intercooler and a few other choice components. As standard, the 1.5-litre Materia made around 74kW, but once boosted it made 110kW in a mild state of tune.

We tested the car on several occasions and were impressed every time. It wasn’t the fastest from 0-100km/h, taking around 7.5 secs to complete the sprint and top speed was about 200km/h, but when you stood on the loud pedal it came alive, and there was an old school “when the boost comes home” feeling to the engine that gave it genuine character. It had a Momo steering wheel and you could option a Quaife limited-slip differential for the front axle if you took your rip really seriously. (PR)

VOLKSWAGEN CITI R-LINE

No performance car list can be complete without the inclusion of a Volkswagen Citi. We had a tough time with this car because there were genuinely so many cool Citi Golfs made in South Africa from the Blues to the Deco to the Sonic.

However, we went with the legendary CTi, but then decided that the Citi that deserved the honour of being on this list is the very special, very rare, Citi R-Line.

Launched in South Africa towards the end of the Global Financial Crisis of 2008/9, it couldn’t have come at a better time; as a tru-performance car for the financially savvy.

Like the rest of the Citi range, there weren’t any fancy technologies, nor did you get a hi-tech interior with digital gauges. What you got was reincarnation of that original GTI that sparked our love affair with hot hatches.

The Citi R-Line came with a naturally aspirated 1.8-litre four-pot that had around 90kW of power and 175Nm of torque making it more powerful than the original Golf GTI. It was a manic thing that loved to rev and it had all the quirks that the Citi was infamous for such as steering feel, lift-off oversteer and spongy brakes. The R-Line was one of the most thrilling hot hatches to drive and even today it remains a must-have for car collectors that know their local performance cars. If you find one, expect to pay double of what it sold for more than 10 years ago. (PR)

SUBARU WRX STI DIAMOND EDITION

A couple of years ago, Subaru SA invited us to their head office to view their new on-site R&D facility and new workshop. In that workshop sat a couple of WRX STI models with a few additional body pieces. A closer look revealed that the engines were being fettled with too. Subaru’s spokesperson at the time didn’t want to share too much but did reveal that something special was coming. A year later, I received a call to view this very special car, something that Subaru SA had cooked up just for us in Mzansi, the new WRX STI Diamond Edition. Sporting a new, unique body kit with solar yellow bright work, the Diamond Edition sold in limited numbers, as only 30 were supposed to be made for South Africa. We still don’t see them on the road. Subaru in Japan took issue with the local branch’s fettling. Our test car was recalled by the manufacturer within a couple of days of its arrival and even the press information about the vehicle has been removed from the company’s local archives.

In any event, if you come across a Diamond Edition, buy it for its 2.5-litre flat-four engine that produces 260kW at 4 500rpm and 464Nm at 4 000rpm. Tested in Gauteng at an altitude of 1 410m above sea level, the Diamond Edition achieved a 5.03 secondz 0-100km/h time, 0.7 seconds quicker than its standard WRX STi. (PR)

HOT WHEELS AND BIG CATS PRITESH RUTHUN

FOR more than 40 years, Hot Wheels has been working with Jaguar to create unique collectibles that can be enjoyed no matter how old you might be.

From the legendary E-Type to the Project 7, you can actually get your hands on these cars in a Hot Wheels sense, considering the rarity of the actual cars.

Jokes aside the toymaker and automaker’s relationship goes deep, so much so that the pair or companies partnered up for their latest products launches. We attended the Track Builder series Triple Loop Kit launch and F-Type test-drive at the Jaguar Land Rover Experience Centre in Lonehill last month, where we got to try out both products.

The Hot Wheels team had set up multiple challenges for press throughout the day, in between presentations and interviews. We had a go at the Triple Loop Kit, which proved very easy to set up on our own too, considering the number of pieces that’s included in the kit. As part of the Track Builder range of Hot Wheels toys, the Triple Loop Kit is one of the company’s most ambitious products to date.

It’s the first triple loop of its kind and with the right car and the right “smash” technique it’s a whole lot of fun.

The massive track that Hot Wheels South Africa laid out inside the experience centre was also unique, sporting more than 1 000 pieces, loops, bends, boosters and jumps.

Completing one lap of the purpose-built track proved challenging and engaging and it was interesting how we all got into the process of refining the track and the technique of launching the cars.

When it came to the actual Jaguar on offer to test drive for the afternoon, we had to complete several Hot Wheels

challenges, which included mastering the Triple Loop Kit, a drift kit and several head-to-head races with Jaguar’s driving instructors before jumping into the cars.

The latest supercharged F-Type was first on my list as I wanted to see if Jaguar had managed to somehow make the car more drivable than its predecessor.

Don’t get me wrong, the pre-facelift big cat handled as well as it could for a relatively square wheelbase, highoutput machine, but on the edge, the old car was, to put it frankly, quite beastly when making haste and not the most confidence-inspiring thing on earth.

The latest supercharged V8 F-Type, both on the road and on the Jaguar test track, shows a massive improvement in driver friendliness.

It’s still massively overpowered and demands respect, but in the hands, with the electronic systems switched on, there’s this heightened level of ease to the whole thing. It steers with a lightness that defies its front-end mass and it grips and goes out of the corners with such ferocious intent that there’s the front-mid-engine feel to it now.

We drove a few of the other F-Type models too, but the main thing about the F-Type is that you want the the big V8 model. It’s the character of the car; able to feel like a muscle car, a sports car and a grand touring car all in one. There’s space inside and if you overlook the odd Range Rover button here and there, it’s actually a bespoke place to be, plush and inviting.

Overall, we had an excellent day out learning about the Hot Wheels products that are coming to South Africa later this year, as well as the latest Jaguars that you can head out and buy right now.

If you would like to learn more about the Jaguar F-Type

range that’s available in South Africa, contact the Jaguar Land Rover Experience Centre in Lonehill, Gauteng, or one of the Jaguar dealers situated nearest to you.

• For more information on Hot Wheels, visit the Mattel website. We’ll be building a unique Hot Wheels Triple Loop Kit this month so be sure to follow @ pritzthecarguy on Instagram to see if we are able to master the art of the triple loop.

10 HOT WHEELS FAST FACTS

• Hot Wheels was launched in 1968 during the New York Toy Fair • The first Hot Wheels car off the line was a dark blue Camaro • The first Hot Wheels cars to be sold were the “SWEET 16” • More than 6 billion collectible cars have been produced since 1968 • On average, 519 million cars are produced per year • On average, every kid in the USA owns at least 50 Hot Wheels • There are more than 20 000 variations of official Hot Wheels cars in existence • Nearly 10 000km of Track Builder orange track is produced each year • The most expensive Hot Wheels car ever sold was the Beach Bomb for nearly R1,2 million • The Star Wars Dart Vader car is the world’s best-selling Hot Wheels character car. | Background by Freepik.com

D360 PRESENTS: Sports Stars & Cars CLIVE BARKER, who is regarded as one of the greatest soccer coaches, is best known for leading Bafana Bafana to victory in the 1996 African Cup of Nations.

But, he almost didn’t take the Bafana job. “I thought I would miss the vibe that you have when you’re at a club, like secretaries telling you to pick up your phone, the banter with the players. That’s what I love,” he says. After all, at the centre of his lifelong affection for club football stands Amazulu FC, which has been a constant in his career. “They gave me my first shot at coaching, after my playing days were cut short by a ligament injury at 28,” he notes. “Once I stopped playing, I thought that all the things that I dreamt of were gone,” he admits.

In recent years, Barker has concentrated on helping young footballers hone their handling skills, and because we at Drive360 are all about the handling, we thought we’d talk to the former South African football coach about cars to see if he’s had any hilarious handling experiences of his own behind the wheel …

DRIVE360: What was your first car?

CLIVE BARKER: My first car was a Morris Minor. It was a two seater and

grey in colour. I bought it for R120. It was a very pleasant car to drive.

D360: What car do you drive now?

CB: I’m currently driving a Honda CR-V, which is also grey in colour.

D360: What motivated you to buy the Honda?

CB: I needed something easy to live with and it is a very decent looking car for an old man like me.

D360: Do you think the vehicle fits your personality?

CB: Yes, I hope so (he chuckled). It is very comfortable and reliable.

In the past I’ve had a Toyota, Mercedes-Benz and BMW. I’ve been very fortunate. Now, I got older and I’ve got a little bit slower.

D360: If we gave you an unlimited budget, what car would you buy and why?

CB: It would have to be similar to the Honda, so a big luxurious and lovely SUV that’s

•Follow @ IOLMOTORING on Instagram and Facebook for more Sports Stars & Cars

comfortable with lots of features.

D360: Which is your favourite car you have owned?

It was a BMW 5 Series. If I could afford it, I would certainly buy it again but I’m comfortable with my Honda.

D360: Does your car have a name?

CB: No! I’m not that type of a person. I haven’t got a name for my car. I chuckle when I hear people talking about their cars in that way.

D360: What was your most memorable road trip and why?

CB: Road trip, I’m not quite sure. I used to like driving long distances when we won something. I love driving. I used to drive from Joburg to Durban but, of course, I can’t do that now. I really enjoy the open road.

D360: So, what’s your favourite road in South Africa?

CB: I don’t have any specific road but, like I said, I used to love driving long distances. I used to coach at Michael House and enjoyed that road to Michael House.

D360: If you were a racing driver, what formula would you like to compete in and for which team?

CB: I’ll certainly race in Formula One for Mercedes-Benz.

D360: Finally, can you name one motorsport personality or athlete you respect or admire and why?

CB: Lewis Hamilton. He is a fantastic driver and has a fantastic personality. He is good for the game.

PERFORMANCE CAR NEWS

STORY 1: RETURN OF THE MACK

BMW’s E30-generation 3-Series has become an absolute legend in spinning and drifting circles, and none are more hallowed than the 325is, which was a homegrown special launched in 1990.

Available in two versions, powered by a 2.7-litre straight six engine and offering up to 155kW (which was a great deal at that time), the 325is also carved up a rich motorsport heritage in Group N racing.

Now BMW is paying tribute to the “Gusheshe” as it has become known in modern times, with a brand new special edition based on the latest 3-Series sedan, and appropriately badged 330is Edition.

Officially launched in Mzansi this month with a price tag of R899 000, the 330is Edition is powered by the same 2-litre turbopetrol engine as the regular 330i models, with 190kW on tap, which BMW says is sufficient to get it from 0-100km/h in 5.8 seconds.

It might not have more power than the car it’s based on, but the 330is Edition does receive unique design features inside and out, as well as M Sport brakes and 10mm-lower Adaptive M suspension.

The Edition rides on 20-inch M Performance wheels and is also fitted with an M Aerodynamic kit, which includes a bespoke front splitter, side skirts, boot spoiler and exhaust.

The BMW Individual high-gloss Shadow Line package with extended features also includes a black grille and darkened headlights.

Buyers can choose from four exterior colours: Melbourne Red, Glacier Silver, Alpine White and Black Sapphire.

We’ll have ours in red, thanks.

Customers can also look forward to some unique cabin decor in the form of 330is branding on the doorsills and dashboard inlay, Vernasca Black seat upholstery, M seat belts and steering wheel, anthracite roof lining and a glass sunroof.

Standard features include a Harman Kardon Surround Sound system as well as BMW’s Live Cockpit Professional with Gesture Control and Park Assist.

If you want a future classic, this is perhaps the performance car to buy right now.

STORY 2: PDK FOR THE PURISTS

WITH no turbochargers to speak of and manual gear shifting only, the 4-litre versions of Porsche’s 718 Boxster and Cayman are an absolute godsend for purists who enjoy driving the good oldfashioned way.

However, with Porsche’s PDK dual-clutch gearboxes being so good, and urban traffic congestion increasingly dampening the appeal of manual boxes, Porsche has decided to make its PDK gearbox available on the flagship 718 models.

This applies to the 718 Boxster and Cayman GTS, which are powered by a 294kW version of Porsche’s 4-litre flat-six, as well as the 718 Spyder and Cayman GT4 models, which are good for 309kW. According to Porsche, all four auto models are half a second faster off the mark, with the GTS derivatives now taking four seconds on the dot to get from zero to 100km/h, while the slightly perkier Spyder and GT4 models now need only 3.9 seconds to do the deed.

Both are also 0.4 seconds quicker to 200km/h, for the record, taking a respective 13.7 and 13.4 seconds.

In the GTS models, the standard Sport Chrono package adapts the gear shift characteristics of the PDK according to the four different driving modes: Normal, Sport, Sport Plus and Individual.

Porsche has also improved the mechanical locking rear diff in the 718 Spyder and 718 Cayman GT4..

Furthermore, the German sports car maker has made some minor specification changes to the 718 range for 2021. For instance, Alcantara interior fabric has been replaced by Race-Tex material, a motorsport-derived fabric which Porsche says is more breathable and supportive.

Furthermore, the GT4 and Spyder models will be available in the vivid special paint finish Python Green, while the 20-inch Aurum alloy wheels that were only available on the GT4 will be offered with the Spyder too.

STORY 3: DROP. DEAD. GORGEOUS

FERRARI is taking a small step outside its comfort zone with the new Roma, which made its South African debut last month.

Priced at R4 972 000, the Roma is positioned above the Portofino and below the F8 Tributo. Unlike its siblings, its ambitions are more along the lines of a grand tourer than an outright supercar. Ferrari’s marketing chief Enrico Galliera said the car would appeal to those who have never driven a sports car and those who might be afraid of one, according to Autocar.

While more elegant and practical than you’d expect from the Prancing Horse, there is nothing tame about its performance credentials. The Roma is powered by a 3855cc turbocharged V8 engine that thunders out 456kW between 5 750 and 7 500rpm, and 760Nm from the 3 000 mark. That’s sufficient, says Ferrari, to get the sports car from zero to 100km/h in 3.4 seconds and to 200km/h in 9.3 seconds, while the top speed is 320km/h. Power goes to the back wheels through an eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox.

The car also has some advanced aerodynamic and chassis systems, including an active rear spoiler integrated into the rear screen, Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer, which controls yaw angle by hydraulically adjusting brake pressure at the callipers, and Side Slip Control 6.0, which is fitted to a Ferrari GT car for the first time.

The Roma’s cabin is highly digitised as well as luxurious, featuring a digital instrument cluster, a vertical central screen and a new passenger display. The new Ferrari Key with a Comfort Access function allows the driver to open the car by touching a button next to the flush handle in the door.

The car’s importer, Scuderia South Africa, is seeking to create a more digitally connected experience, as group chief operating officer Jan Ungerer says: “We have opted to revolutionise the way in which we engage with our esteemed customers and prospects by embracing the ever-evolving digital space.

“In addition, the recently launched MyFerrari App was created specifically to provide Ferrari clients with features and services that interface directly with Maranello. This will allow clients to access to the entire Ferrari Universe at their fingertips.”

STORY 4: HOT NEW HYUNDAI N IS READY

JUST as Volkswagen prepares to launch its hotly anticipated eighthgeneration Golf GTI, Korea’s new-to-the-party i30 N is getting a make-over.

Following on the heels of the facelifted i30 hatchback models, the i30 N performance hatch gets a sharper face as well as a little more power and the option of a dual-clutch gearbox for the first time.

According to Hyundai, the i30N’s tweaked 2-litre turbopetrol engine pushes 206kW and 392Nm, versus the current car’s 202kW and 353Nm. The result is a 0-100km/h sprint time of 5.9 seconds – 0.2 seconds faster than before.

The upgraded engine boasts a flatter torque curve, with more twisting force available at lower rpm.

While the six-speed manual gearbox is still offered, buyers can opt for an eight-speed DCT dual-clutch automated transmission. The gearbox offers three new N performance modes, namely N Grin Shift, N Power Shift and N Track Sense Shift, and drivers can swop cogs themselves via the steering-mounted paddles.

As before, there’s a Grin Control System that allows drivers to tailor the car’s dynamic systems through five driving modes: Eco, Normal, Sport, N and N Custom.

Hyundai has upgraded the chassis too, with the electronically controlled suspension and steering systems being retuned for the facelifted model, to improve ride and handling characteristics.

On the outside, the new i30 N can be distinguished by its larger and shapelier grille, as well as sharply sculpted redesigned headlights and fresh LED taillights.

As for the cabin, the i30 N comes with the option of N Light seats, which are 2.2kg lighter than the standard seats and upholstered in a combination of leather and Alcantara. The dashboard gets subtle enhancements, such as redesigned air vents with chrome trim and a new 26cm touch screen infotainment system.

Drivers attending track days will appreciate the Performance Driving Data System that allows them to monitor their track skills.

It saves and displays driving data, including information on power, torque and turbo boost. It includes a lap and acceleration timer.

At this stage it’s not known whether the upgraded i30 N will be offered in South Africa.

STORY 5: BUGATTI NO MORE?

FRENCH hypercar-maker Bugatti is looking set for an electric future, following reports that Volkswagen plans to sell the brand to electric hypercar specialist Rimac.

The UK’s Car Magazine says its sources have confirmed that Volkswagen executives have approved the deal, but the supervisory board needs to sign it off.

Rimac is a Croation company that put its name on the map by creating the world’s first electric hypercar back in 2011.

The initial model, the Concept One, was more recently followed up by the even more potent C_Two.

If the deal goes ahead, it would certainly mean an all-electric future for Bugatti, but that doesn’t mean that its hypercars would lose their manic performance edge.

If anything, the opposite is true. Consider that the Rimac C_Two’s four electric motors collectively produce 1 408kW and 2 300Nm, which is enough to get it from 0-96km/h in 1.85 seconds and from 0-160km/h in just 4.3s.

By comparison, Bugatti’s W16 petrol engine produces 1 103kW and 1 600Nm. But why does VW want to sell Bugatti?

According to Car Magazine, the German auto giant no longer wants to throw money and resources at so-called

“hobby brands” that were acquired under former boss Ferdinand Piech, particularly in the wake of its massive post-Dieselgate electrification drive.

Another motivation would be to give the VW Group a bigger share in Rimac, which many have hailed as the Tesla of Europe. Porsche, which is also owned by VW, holds a 15.5% stake in Rimac, and it’s likely that Bugatti will serve as a bargaining chip to increase its share.

Nothing is official yet, but expect an announcement soon. But it also begs the question: If VW wants to off-load Bugatti, could other niche brands such as Lamborghini and Bentley also face the same fate?

STORY 6: THE Z IS BACK

NISSAN is finally set to unleash a new Z car and you can expect it to look a lot like the Z Proto concept car that has been revealed in Japan.

Despite being more modern than retro, the styling of the prototype is strongly influenced by its earliest ancestor, the 240 Z of 1969, although the tail lights also pay tribute to the 300 ZX of the 1990s.

Nissan’s design chief Alfonso Albaisa explained that combining retro and futuristic design elements into a modern sports car package was a challenging task.

“Our designers made countless studies and sketches as we researched each generation and what made them a success,” Albaisa said.

“Ultimately, we decided the Z Proto should travel between the decades, including the future.”

● Follow @ IOLMOTORING on Instagram and Facebook for the latest performance car news.

But what’s under that elongated bonnet?

Nissan says the prototype is powered by a V6 twin-turbo engine that’s paired with a six-speed manual gearbox. There’s no official word yet on how powerful it is, but it is strongly rumoured that the newcomer will wear a Z400 badge, denoting 400 horsepower, which equates to 298kW in metric speak.

Nissan is also not saying whether an auto box will be offered, although the manual will certainly appease those fans who enjoy driving their sports cars the good oldfashioned way.

“The Nissan Z Proto pays full respect to 50 years of Z heritage. At the same time, it’s a thoroughly modern sports car,” Nissan said.

Chief product specialist Hiroshi Tamura added: “Z is a

balance of power and agility. It is a vehicle that creates a connection with the driver not just on the physical level, but emotionally, and responds to the driver’s impulses.”

Just like the car’s exterior, the cabin aims to seamlessly blend modern technology with retro Z touches, and the design team even went as far as seeking advice from racing drivers on what constitutes an ideal sports car cockpit.

While most of the information is accessed via a touchscreen and digital instrument cluster, the Proto still has three analogue gauges on the dash top to relay boost and voltage information.

That’s as much as we can tell you about the new Z for now, but it surely won’t be too long before Nissan pulls the covers off the real thing.

VICTORYfor King Katra

IN THE throes of darkness, at a top-secret location in Johannesburg last month, the country’s top spinners battled it out for the second annual Red Bull Shay’ iMoto title.

After a tyre-screeching final battle between Eddie Rasta and King Katra, that captivated a global online audience, King Katra walked away as the 2020 champion.

From qualifying, contested through an online voting mechanic and judges’ votes, the top eight were selected to go into the next round, which was broadcast live on Red Bull TV and IOL. Katra made his way to the final by facing off against the defending champion Veejaro Hendricks in the quarter finals, and impressed the panel of judges. For the semi-final and final rounds, the panel was bolstered by the competitors who’d been knocked out in the earlier rounds of competition.

“It feels so great to be in the number one position!” said an emotional Katra. “I worked really hard. There were times where I didn’t have much faith in myself, but I knew I had all the people at home backing me. I knew I had to push and make sure I made them proud.”

The online audience also got to witness the OG of spinning Magesh Ndaba, showing off his classic skills in the new BMW M3. The legend – who was also a judge at the event – gave South Africans his top tier donuts in the BMW M-Town obstacle course that was part of the competition.

If you’d like to see the spinning action, tune into SABC Sport this weekend for the show highlights. You can also watch the event on IOL by visiting: https://www.iol.co.za/motoring/motorsport/king-katracrowned-2020-red-bull-shay-imoto-champion-c2a81da49c91-4ae1-b5c7-b9fa05b500c6

| Background image by Freepik.com

Have you discovered these digital magazines yet?

Read our magazines anywhere, anytime and then share it with everyone you know... because it’s free Click on the magazine you want to read now.

Advertising Sales queries: Charl Reineke | charl.reineke@inl.co.za