Kia Picanto 1.2 LS launched in South Africa

The Kia Picanto 1.2 LS is priced from ZAR 139,995 (INR 6.45 lakhs)

Kia Motors South Africa has introduced the Kia Picanto 1.2 LS, which offers the bigger 1.2L four cylinder engine in the LS grade, thus bridging the gap between the base 1.0 LS and 1.2 EX models.

The 1.2 LS is powered by the same motor from the 1.2 EX grade; a 1.2-litre Kappa MPI engine producing 65 kW (87 hp) of power at 6,000 rpm and 120 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. It is paired to a 5-speed manual gearbox as standard, while an automatic transmission is optional.

Tata Xenon Evolve Limited Edition launched in South Africa

Accordion Investments, authorized distributor of Tata Motors in South Africa, has introduced a limited edition Tata Xenon Evolve. It is priced from ZAR 269,995 (INR 12.33 lakhs) for the 4×2 variant, while a 4×4 model is also available, but on a made-to-order basis.

The exterior of the Evolve Special Edition has a number of important, added value features including a roll-over bar behind the cab, side steps, a front nudge bar and a tow bar as well as unique badging and a special decal package. The alloy wheels have been revised as an additional distinguishing feature.

The Xenon range blends modern styling, comprehensive safety features which includes ABS as well asdual front airbags, plus a host of convenience features such as GPS navigation and Bluetooth compatibility. Other items that are standard equipment include electric windows, power steering, an audio system with an MP3 player and a tilt-adjustable steering column.

The Evolve is powered by a new generation 2.2-litre turbo Tata diesel engine with variable valve timing, variable turbine technology and direct injection with a common fuel rail. It develops 110kW of power and a peak torque figure of 320Nm. Double cab variants also benefit from rear diff-lock for those tough situations. 

Mini Convertible launched @INR 34.9 lakhs

The new Mini Convertible is powered by the Cooper S’s 2.0-liter four-cylinder TwinPower Turbo engine capable of 192 hp and 280 Nm of torque. It accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 7.1 seconds and hits a top-speed of 233 km/h. The drive is channelled via a 6-speed automatic transmission or an optional 6-speed Sports automatic transmission. The claimed fuel economy is 14.59 km/l.

Standard features on the new Convertible include LED headlights and LED foglights, park distance control, MINI driving modes, automatic climate control, auto start/stop, brake energy recuperation and an electromechanical steering.

 

Optional features on board the new Convertible include a Harman Kardon hi-fi system, Head-up display, Dynamic Damper Control, and an 8.8-inch screen with Touch Controller and Bluetooth connectivity.

Royal Enfield Himalayan @1.56 lakh(Ind rupie)

The Himalayan is the new offering from the Indian motorcycle maker in just three short years. The Himalayan promises a lot and has a lot riding on it as well. It is India’s first homegrown and most affordable adventure motorcycle. By the looks of it Royal Enfiel d has gone to great lengths to develop this motorcycle and it is a far cry from Royal Enfield’s usual crop of bikes. The 410cc LS4 engine is bored out version of the 350cc engine which has been heavily worked on. It now features overhead cams compared to push-rods, is oil cooled which translates to a higher revving motorcycle. It is even fitted with counter balancers to keep the engine vibrations in check. Also, it is the first Royal Enfield to come with a monoshock rear suspension. Things do look promising for the Indian motorcycle maker and the Himalayan could be the bike that could popularize adventure biking in India.