Car News & Cars for Sale South Africa

Who needs a BMW X7 M? New Alpina XB7 revealed as 457 kW monster - Carmag South Africa

Wish BMW built a high-performance X7 M? Well, the fresh-faced Alpina XB7 might just be the answer, boasting 457 kW from its twin-turbo V8.

Wish BMW built a high-performance X7 M to battle the Mercedes-AMG GLS63? Well, the fresh-faced Alpina XB7 might just be the answer, boasting 457 kW from its twin-turbo V8. Yes, the Buchloe-based BMW specialist has whipped the covers off its new XB7, which is based on the X7 M50i xDrive variant. The twin-turbo 4,4-litre V8’s peak outputs have been hiked from the standard 390 kW and 750 N.m to a healthier 457 kW and 800 N.m. Despite tipping the scales at a hefty 2 655 kg, Alpina says the XB7 will hit 100 km/h from standstill in 4,2 seconds (and complete the 0-200 km/h dash in 14,9 seconds), which makes it around half a second quicker to three figures than the X7 M50i. The mammoth SUV tops out at 290 km/h in XB7 guise, while the ZF-sourced eight-speed automatic transmission has been suitably upgraded to handle the extra oomph. Alpina has, of course, implemented all manner of other updates, too, including the fitment of its own sports suspension with two-axle air springs and featuring new dome-bulkhead and reinforced torsion struts. The company furthermore offers 20-spoke alloy wheels measuring up to 23 inches in diameter, each wrapped in Pirelli rubber. A subtle body kit is also part of the package, with the rear apron framing the tailpipes of an Alpina sport exhaust system. Inside, the firm has fitted items such as an Alpina steering wheel, a branded crystal gearknob and fresh leather upholstery. Naturally, it offers all sorts of customisation options.

New M4 won't be the most powerful BMW 4 Series, suggests fresh report - Carmag South Africa

A fresh report out of the United Kingdom suggests the new M4 won’t be the most powerful variant in the imminent second-generation 4 Series range.

A fresh report out of the United Kingdom suggests the new M4 won’t be the most powerful variant in the imminent second-generation 4 Series range. According to Autocar, the “greatly” expanded new 4 Series range will feature three M4-badged performance derivatives (covering the coupé, convertible and now also gran coupé body styles), each with up to 375 kW in full-fat Competition guise. However, the publication claims the new all-electric i4 will end up being the most powerful, offering around 390 kW and nearly 815 N.m from a pair of electric motors. This model has, of course, already been previewed by the Concept i4 revealed in March 2020. Earlier reports suggested the new M4 would be offered in both six-speed manual/rear-wheel-drive and eight-speed automatic/all-wheel-drive form, with the latter models wearing the Competition badge. The publication says the standard M4 will offer 353 kW from its twin-turbo 3,0-litre inline-six engine, while the Competition variants will feature 375 kW. The Autocar report furthermore suggests the new 4 Series has been handed “a major design revamp”, including the controversial grille that debuted on the Concept 4 in 2019. The publication says the 4 Series coupé’s broader engine range will include three petrol and three diesel powerplants. The Munich-based firm has already confirmed details about the M440i, while Autocar says an M440d is on the cards, too. Interestingly, the 4 Series Convertible will reportedly switch from the current folding hardtop arrangement to a multi-layered fabric item, mimicking the set-up used on the 8 Series Convertible.

Toyota Land Cruiser 70 Series: V8 turbodiesel safe ... for now - Carmag South Africa

The V8 turbodiesel employed by the Toyota Land Cruiser 70 Series will reportedly live on, despite the upcoming Land Cruiser 300 likely to switch to a V6.

A fresh report out of Australia claims the V8 turbodiesel engine employed by the Toyota Land Cruiser 70 Series will live on, despite the upcoming Land Cruiser 300 reportedly switching to V6 power. According to CarsGuide, the Japanese firm says it has no immediate plans to change the Land Cruiser 70 Series’ powertrain, despite a recent report suggesting Toyota will soon kill off its V8 engines. Emissions regulations, though, are likely to eventually see it put out to pasture. "There are currently no planned changes to the Land Cruiser 70 Series availability, or to its powertrain," a Toyota spokesperson told CarsGuide. "As far as future model plans on the replacement for the upcoming Land Cruiser 200, we can’t confirm any powertrain details at this stage," the spokesperson added. The Land Cruiser 70 Series range offered in South Africa (comprising 79-badged bakkies in single- and double-cab forms, and a 76-badged SUV that Toyota SA bills as a station wagon) includes the 4,5-litre V8 turbodiesel, which offers all four corners 151 kW and 430 N.m. The 195 kW/650 N.m version of the eight-cylinder that powers the outgoing Land Cruiser 200, though, is widely expected to be culled.

New BMW M2 CSL on the cards? M boss says firm 'hasn't decided yet'… - Carmag South Africa

BMW M boss Markus Flasch says the German firm “hasn’t decided yet” whether it will build an M2 CSL.

BMW M boss Markus Flasch says the German firm “hasn’t decided yet” whether it will build a hardcore M2 CSL. Speaking during an episode of BMW Today posted on the company’s YouTube channel (and embedded below), Flasch suggested the decision had yet to be made. “To be honest, we haven’t decided yet. But we will do more sondermodelle [special models] than in the past,” he said. “We want to show that our cars are driven from the racetrack and we want to close the gap between [the] competition, high-performance car and the racecar. And the CS, and maybe even a CSL, are alternatives that we are [deliberating over].” Late in 2017, a report from Germany suggested BMW had scrapped plans to build a hardcore, lightweight, CSL-badged version of the M2. In November 2019, BMW whipped the covers off its M2 CS, billing it as a “limited-run” special edition positioned above the M2 Competition. The M2 CS employs a 3,0-litre inline six-cylinder petrol developing 331 kW and 550 N.m (yes, the same peak outputs of the outgoing M4 Competition). That’s enough, says BMW, for a sprint from zero to 100 km/h in 4,0 seconds in the case of the seven-speed dual-clutch model.

Upsized engine for N? Hyundai spotted testing 2,5-litre turbo! - Carmag South Africa

A fresh report out of Korea suggests Hyundai is testing a 2,5-litre turbocharged engine for use its N division’s performance models.

A fresh report (and accompanying image) out of Korea suggests Hyundai is testing a new 2,5-litre turbocharged engine for use its N division’s performance models. Of course, the i30 N hot hatch employs a turbocharged 2,0-litre four-cylinder engine generating up to 202 kW and 353 N.m, mated to the front axle via a six-speed manual gearbox. But, according to thekoreancarblog.com, Hyundai is hard at work testing a new 2,5 T-GDi unit. In fact, the publication shared a photograph of a Veloster N test mule complete with a sticker on its driver’s door listing a 2,5-litre engine. A similarly sized unit is, of course, already used by the Genesis G80, where it delivers 207 kW and 422 N.m. It seems more likely Hyundai will offer this new, larger powerplant in certain upcoming N-badged models (such as the rumoured Elantra N and Tucson N) rather than roll out the 2,5-litre to existing (still fairly young) models such as the i30 N and recently updated Veloster N (and soon-to-be-revealed Kona N). For the record, the Veloster N has just gained an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission option in its domestic market, with the i30 N expected to follow suit.

Next-gen Ford Mustang to employ electrified V8 and AWD – report - Carmag South Africa

A fresh report out of the United Kingdom claims the next-generation Ford Mustang will debut in 2022 with an electrified V8 and all-wheel drive.

A fresh report out of the United Kingdom claims the next-generation Ford Mustang will debut in 2022 with an electrified V8 and all-wheel drive. According to Autocar, the seventh-generation version of the Mustang will be offered in both left- and right-hand drive (as with the current model), sold alongside the all-electric Mustang Mach-E. Bearing the codename “S650” and set to be built on the CD6 platform (shared with the latest Explorer), the new Mustang will reportedly retain a V8 engine option, although the Blue Oval brand is expected to add a hybrid system to the mix. Basing its claims on a patent filed back in 2017, Autocar says an eight-cylinder engine will again power the rear wheels, while a pair of electric motors will drive the front axle. According to the report, the electric motors will come into play when the Mustang loses traction at the rear. In addition, the combustion engine could be shut down completely in some driving scenarios in order to save fuel. The report adds it “remains to be seen” whether the Dearborn-based firm will continue to offer a non-hybrid V8 and a turbocharged four-pot alongside the electrified eight-cylinder unit, although suggests the convertible body style is likely to survive alongside the coupé.

Looking back: 10 of the most legendary luxury saloons of all time... - Carmag South Africa

Space, pace and grace. These are the hallmarks of an excellent executive express. Here are 10 of the most legendary luxury sedans from the past...

Space, pace and grace. These are the hallmarks of an excellent executive express. Here are 10 of the most legendary luxury saloons from the past, in no particular order... 1. Mercedes-Benz 600 (W100) Engineered to be the last word in luxury, Mercedes spared no expense in developing the magnificent 600. Produced between 1963 and 1981, the big Benz was the car of choice for those who required the best. A 6,3-litre V8 powered the three-tonne limo, while adjustable air suspension flattened any road imperfections that lay ahead. While most vehicles depend on electric adjustment for the windows and mirrors, the big Mercedes utilised hydraulics for everything. Yes, the windows, seats, bootlid and even the sunroof use hydraulics to move about, ensuring quick and silent operation. While the 600 appealed to many celebrities, such as Coco Chanel and Elvis Presley, Mercedes catered to a different clientele with the 600, too. Enjoying great popularity with 20th century dictators and politicians, it comes as no surprise an armoured version could be purchased directly from the factory. The last of the hand-built Benzes, the 600 commands a hefty premium on the classic car market, with perfect examples selling for up to R16 million. 2. Rolls-Royce Phantom VI Measuring six metres long and two metres wide, the Phantom VI was as imposing as it was large. A car this large needs an appropriate engine to deliver suitable motivation. Initially, a 6,2-litre V8 did duty beneath the lengthy bonnet, before being replaced by the 6,75-litre V8 in 1979. Despite enjoying a production run of 22 years, just 374 examples were produced. Every example differs from the next, with Rolls-Royce providing lucky customers with an extensive list of personalisation options. Unique paint jobs, interior treatments and even unique coachwork distinguished these Rolls-Royces from the next. Given to Queen Elizabeth II to commemorate 25 years on the throne was her very own Phantom VI, complete with a higher roof line to accomodate Her Majesty's crown. 3. Jaguar XJ (Series 1) The year 1968 saw the introduction of a British motoring icon. Designed to replace the ageing 420G, the XJ6 brought a much-needed touch of modernity to the luxury brand. Initially, two straight-sixes were available; the base model being the 2,8-litre and the more upmarket using the 4,2-litre. While both offered equally sumptuous interiors, the real range-topper would arrive only in 1972. The XJ12 featured a 5,2-litre V12, making it the fastest production saloon at the time, capable of over 225 km/h. That same year would see the introduction of a long-wheelbase model, offering more space in the rear. A beautiful leather-trimmed interior was teamed with rich walnut wood trim, giving the XJ the luxurious ambiance of a Rolls-Royce at a fraction of the price. The original XJ was produced until 1986, extensive facelifts keeping them fresh, while the XJ12 managed to live on until 1992, before being replaced by the XJ40. 4. Bentley Turbo R Luxurious they may have been, but Bentleys from the 1970s and '80s weren't known for their sporty dynamics. Originally the car for gentleman racers, Bentleys had essentially become rebadged Rolls-Royces, with very little to distinguish their vehicles other than the badging. The year 1985 saw a return to Bentley's heritage with the Turbo R. While it resembled the Mulsanne on which it was based, the Turbo R had unique alloy wheels, a painted grille housing and a deeper front spoiler. While the ride comfort remained virtually unchanged, the Turbo R was a far more dynamic vehicle than its stablemates, sporting suspension that was stiffer by 50 percent. Through clever engineering, the ride remained largely untroubled. Over the years, the Turbo R enjoyed relatively strong sales success. While 7 230 examples of the original car were built, just 56 units of the phase-out model were commissioned. Dubbed the Turbo RT Mulliner Edition, the athletic Bentley produced a whopping 313 kW of power and 861 N.m of torque. 5. Lexus LS400 After proving it could make excellent and reliable vehicles for the masses, Toyota set out on tackling the exclusive luxury car segment. While BMW and Mercedes-Benz enjoyed great popularity in the United States, Toyota knew its brand image couldn't compete with the prestigious Germans. After years of arduous development, the LS400 was launched under Toyota's new luxury division, Lexus. Not being able to rely on reputation nor brand cachet, Lexus engineered the LS400 to be the best luxury car in the world. When introduced, the LS was not only quieter than its rivals, but faster and more economical, too. The now-coveted 1UZ-FE V8 raised the bar in terms of refinement, a fact that was drilled into the public with an elaborate stunt. A perfectly positioned champagne tower sat on the bonnet of the Japanese sedan, undisturbed by the V8 revving at its 6 200 r/min redline. Today, the original LS400 is remembered for not only rewriting the luxury car rulebook, but for doing so with mechanical precision never before seen in a production car. 6. Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W140) Introduced in 1991, the W140 is still considered by many to be the last of the over-engineered Mercedes-Benzes. With a development cost of U$1 billion, der kathedrale (the cathedral) introduced numerous innovations to the motoring industry. Luxuries such as double-glazed windows refined the S-Class even further while electronic stability control kept the big Benz planted and secure. Initially, the W140 was criticised for being too big, a symbol of excess in a world that needed to be more environmentally aware. Ironically, the W140 was the most environmentally responsible car of its time, featuring a CFC-free air-conditioner and bodywork designed for full recyclability. A number of engines were made available, the most impressive of which was the 6,0-litre V12 in the 600 model. Producing 300 kW, the 12-cylinder could blast the luxury car to 100 km/h in 6,2 seconds. Most popular was the 500, featuring a 240 kW 5,0-litre V8. Tested in June 1994, CAR staffers were impressed, stating "right now, the S-Class represents the pinnacle of luxury car design. Whether it really is the last of a dying breed – the ultimate automotive dinosaur – only time will tell". 7. BMW 7 Series (E38) The original dynamic luxury sedan, the E38 managed to offer BMW dynamics without sacrificing ride comfort. Launched in 1994, the E38 offered a high-quality, driver-centric cabin, trimmed in wood and the finest leathers. The E38 was available only as a V8 and V12 in South Africa. The base 740i was powered by a 4,0-litre V8 (later upgraded to a 4,4-litre V8) and a 240 kW 5,4-litre V12. Europe was lucky enough to receive more options; the straight-six 728i and diesel-powered 740d being the more interesting variants. Despite a relatively short production run (1994-2001), the Seven enjoyed great popularity courtesy of its sleek looks and well-made cabin. Being a movie star didn't hurt those sales, featuring as 007's wheels of choice in Tomorrow Neves Dies and seeing action in The Transporter. Interestingly enough, the E38 was so popular with well-heeled buyers that when the polarising E65 successor was previewed, sales of the E38 increased in its final production year, 2001. 8. Bentley Arnage The year 1998 saw the introduction of the Arnage, a Turbo R replacement for the 21st century. Sharing a body with its Rolls-Royce sibling, the Silver Seraph, the Arnage was intended to be the more sporting, dynamic alternative to the Rolls-Royce. While the Silver Seraph was powered by the same V12 as the 7 Series above, Bentley opted for a different powertrain. A twin-turbo, 4,4-litre V8 did duty in the Bentley. Sourced from BMW, the engine produced 260 kW and 569 N.m of torque. The year 2005 saw a facelift, with the Arnage receiving updates to keep it looking fresh and appealing. By now, the 6,75-litre Bentley V8 had replaced the previous powetrain, boosting the power immensely. In 2007, the Arnage T was introduced, producing 373 kW and 1000 N.m. Rocketing from 0-100 km/h in just 5,5 seconds, the big car from Crewe would go on to a top speed of 290 km/h. Very impressive, for a car weighing 2,5 tonnes. 2009 saw the Arnage make way for the Mulsanne. 9. Volkswagen Phaeton A people's car for the rich, the Phaeton was Volkswagen's attempt at breaking into the luxury car segment. During development, Dr. Ferdinand Piech, then-chairman of the Volkswagen Group, layed down a number of parameters that the Phaeton would have to meet. While not all of them were revealed to the public, one was that the Phaeton had to be capable of cruising at 300 km/h pretty much all day, while maintaining a constant 22 degrees celcius within the cabin. While capable of this feat, the Phaeton is electronically limited to 250 km/h. While a variety of six- and eight-cylinder powertrains were on offer, it's the 6,0-litre W12 and 5,0-litre V10 TDI that made the biggest headlines. Despite not enjoying the sales success VW had hoped for, the Phaeton enjoyed a long life, its production run spanning 14 years. Interestingly, the Phaeton platform and W12 engine were so impressive that the original 2003 Continental GT was based on the big VW. 10. Rolls-Royce Phantom VII By the early '90s, manufacturers such as Mercedes-Benz and BMW had caught up to Rolls-Royce. Not only could they offer equally comfortable cars, but with superior performance and at a cheaper price. The Silver Seraph has failed to capture the attention of wealthy buyers in the way Rolls had hoped, with fairly poor sales. The year 2003 saw the beginning of a new era at Rolls-Royce, with the introduction of the Phantom VII. Completely elevated from the mainstream, the Rolls-Royce sat in an ultra-luxury segement, pestered only by the Maybach 57/62. Offering customisation never before seen, lucky buyers could choose from more than 44 000 shades of paint and hundreds of different wood trimmings. In later years, the Phantom range was extended with a long-wheelbase model, cabriolet and coupé. Powering the Phantom is a near-silent 6,75-litre V12, producing 338 kW. If a buyer felt the standard Phantom wasn't exclusive enough, Rolls-Royce offered the choice of a bespoke Phantom, kitted out to the specifications of the customer. Of course, this came at a very high cost.

Hennessey turbocharges Audi R8's V10 to a whopping 680 kW! - Carmag South Africa

Hennessey Performance is usually a brand that dedicates its tuning skills to American-built products from the likes of Ford and Chevrolet.

Hennessey Performance usually employs its tuning skills on American-built products but the company has now branched out to the Audi R8, slapping on a turbocharger. The 5,2-litre V10 gains a pair of turbochargers as well as a high-flow air induction system, dual inlet pipes, dual blow-off valves, a thermal coating for the stainless downpipes and exhaust, a dual air-to-water intercooler system, uprated intercooler tanks and dual intercooler heat exchangers. With an engine management calibration, the tuned Audi R8 now pushes out 680 kW at 7 400 r/min, up from the standard R8’s 397 kW at 7 800 r/min. No torque figure nor top speed has been declared but Hennessey promises a 0-97 km/h time of 2,6 seconds and a quarter-mile time of 9,8 seconds. Hennessey claims this package can be applied to any R8 from 2015 and comes with a one-year/12 000 mile warranty. The kit can, of course, also be provided for the R8’s Italian twin, the Lamborghini Huracán.