Toyota Corolla
A mainstay updated
Edgy new lines, particularly in profile, set the 2014
Corolla apart from its predecessor - and perhaps even from some of the
competition. Due here early next year, this 11th-genera- tion model has more
space thanks to a 100 mm longer wheelbase, slimmer front seatbacks and
repositioned rear seats.
Toyota Corolla
Like previous versions, the Corolla never strays far from
the norm mechanically, though. Petrol engine options start with two engines
carried over from the previous model, the 73 kW 1,3 and 90 kW 1.6 (now more
economical). The top petrol engine is a 103kW/173 N.m 1.8. There's also a new
66 kW/205 N.m 1.4 diesel. Toyota is calling this the most affordable diesel
model in its category. A six-speed manual is available across all engines; a
new Multidrive transmission is an option for the 1.6 and 1.8.
FAW V2
Beat the budget
FAW has made more of an impact here to date in the LCV
market, but the unveiling of the Chinese company's V2 subcompact hatchback
raised eyebrows. It's no beauty, but what got people walking was the price: as
near as dammit to $9,500.
And no, this is no stripped-down econobox. The V2 is
equipped to levels that you'd expect in cars costing up to $2,850 more.
The list includes dual airbags, ABS braking,
air-conditioning, a radio-CD player with MP3 capability, power windows all
round, power wing mirrors and central locking. With a 67 kW 1,3 Four under the
bonnet, the V2 should be well up to lugging the four to five occupants it's
said to be capable of swallowing. Plus, bonus points for the 320-liter boot.
FAW V2
While on the subject of bonus points, it's worth noting that
FAW's brand new Port Elizabeth plant will begin commercial vehicle production
next year and passenger vehicles the year after.
Two soon-to-be launched vehicles also on display were the
V80 minibus and Mazda6-based X80 sport-utility.
Renault Duster Detour
Attitude addition
We had good things to say about the abilities and value for
money of Renault’s new compact SUV (PM, November). Not surprisingly, we were
quite taken by the Duster Detour. Making its global premiere, this concept is a
collaboration between the Renault Design Center in Europe and South Africa's
Cube Strategic Design. It features raised suspension, two-tone paintwork,
tinted windows with black pillar masks and 18-inch customized alloy wheels,
fitted with all-terrain tyres in widened wheel arches.
Also on the Renault stand were the new Clio Renault Sport
200 EDC (147 kW 1,6 turbo petrol engine and six-speed EDC dual clutch
transmission) and new Koleos.
Renault Duster
Detour
