QUANTUM SHIFT SUPER TOURER
Aston Martin DB12
Aston Martin describes the newly introduced DB12 as the world’s first Super Tourer. Delivering a quantum shift in sporting character and dynamic capability, this new generation of the DB bloodline, according to Aston Martin, defines this category and heralds a new era for the marque by combining “a scintillating driving experience with exceptional refinement, state-of-the-art technology, and indulgent luxury”.
The announcement of the DB12 comes as Aston Martin celebrates two significant milestones: Its 110th anniversary and 75 years of the DB model line. When founders Lionel Martin and Robert Bamford officially formed the partnership that became Aston Martin, they ignited more than a century of automotive passion, British innovation, and high-octane racing success.
Aston Martin is currently enjoying one of the most dynamic periods in its 110-year history thanks to continued podium success in the 2023 Formula One season, and the new DB12, with its core values of high-performance and ultra-luxury, are spearheading Aston Martin’s next generation of sports cars (with no electrification yet in sight).
As successor to the DB11, the new DB retains the hand-built 4.0 Twin-Turbo V8 engine from Mercedes-Benz, tuned by Aston Martin engineers to deliver 500 kW at 6,000 rpm and 800 Nm between 2,750-6,000 rpm – an increase of 34% compared with the outgoing model.
This has been achieved through modified cam profiles, optimised compression ratios, larger diameter turbochargers, and a completely redesigned cooling system with a 56% increase in open apertures to allow more cold air to flow into the radiators. All this endows the DB12 with a zero to km/h time of 3.6 seconds and a top speed of 325 km/h.
The bold and assertive exterior design of the DB12 is a perfect expression of power and potency, integrating 75 years of DB heritage with measured aggression and elegance. Featuring an increase in track (6mm at the front and 22 mm at the rear), a larger, reshaped radiator aperture and a reshaped splitter dominate the front visage, and the wide-track stance is complemented by standard 21” forged alloy wheels.
Enriched by an all-new, ultra-luxurious interior, the DB12 indulges occupants with modern opulence, a next-generation bespoke infotainment system and a formidable suite of connected technology, including a surround sound system by new audio partner, Bowers & Wilkins, and driver-centric controls are ergonomically placed along the cabin centreline.
Engineered to maximise performance, the DB12 is the sharpest DB ever, according to Aston Martin, and features a revised (shortened) Final Drive Ratio and, for the first time on a DB, an E-Diff. Structural stiffness is increased by 7% and is supported by a new suspension system with the latest adaptive dampers, and bespoke Michelin Pilot Sport 5’S tyres marked with ‘AML’ codes. First deliveries of the DB12 are scheduled to begin during the third quarter of 2023.
FIVE FEVER INCOMING
New BMW 5 Series Sedan
More dynamic than ever, with a wealth of digital innovations and, for the first time, all-electric drive, is how the latest G60 BMW 5 Series, the world’s most successful business sedan, in i5 guise takes the lead on the road to sustainable premium mobility in the upper mid-range vehicle segment.
The new generation BMW 5 Series will be launched in Europe late this year and is set to reach South Africa next year. The range will be offered with all-electric drive worldwide and in South Africa with highly efficient diesel engines, including 48-volt mild hybrid technology, but the BMW i5 eDrive40 and the 530e Plug-In Hybrid models are not destined for local shores.
The new Five is slightly bigger than its predecessor, with a 20 mm longer wheelbase. From the front, it is characterised by a new interpretation of the twin headlights and BMW kidney grille, with almost vertical LED elements serving as turn indicators and daytime driving lights.
This dynamism is enhanced by a high shoulder line, powerfully designed side surfaces and two precisely traced character lines. Black side skirts, flush-mounted door openers and an embossed number ‘5’ at the base of the C-pillar are further eye-catchers, and at the back, flat rear lights divided by a chrome strip interpret the hallmark L-shape expressively.
The new 5 Series is BMW’s first model with a fully vegan interior as standard. There are significantly fewer buttons and controls inside, thanks to more digitalised functions, including the BMW Curved Display system with a 12.3” Info Display and a 14.9” Control Display.
The all-electric BMW i5 has extensively enhanced fifth-generation eDrive technology. The two drive units for the i5 M60 xDrive combine to produce 442 kW of power and up to 820 Nm of torque when M Sport Boost or the M Launch Control function is activated. This enables the i5 M60 to accelerate from zero to km/h in 3.8 seconds, reaching a limited top speed of 230 km/h. An 81.2 kWh high-voltage battery gives the i5 M60 a range of around 455 to 516 km.
In South Africa, new petrol and diesel engine models with 48-volt mild hybrid technology and an eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission will be offered. Market launch will see the introduction of the BMW 520d and i5 M60 xDrive. In early 2024 the range will be supplemented by two variants with the latest generation plug-in hybrid drives and a new in-line six-cylinder diesel engine.
MORE POWER FOR MERC GLB
Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 4MATIC
The latest generation Mercedes-Benz GLB was introduced globally in April 2019 and arrived in South Africa a year later. An AMG model, the Mercedes-AMG GLB 25 4Matic, was also introduced during this period (September 2019), but initial indications from Mercedes-Benz South Africa were that there were no plans to bring it here.
However, at a local relaunch of the compact luxury SUV from Stuttgart just over a year ago, the management of MBSA did hint at the possibility of a “special edition” AMG GLB 35 model coming to South Africa. Now, it seems the Mercedes-AMG GLB 354Matic has quietly arrived here, and according to estimation, they will be available from June.
Also, although the Mercedes-Benz South Africa website shows an image of the recently facelifted AMG GLB model (the facelifted models are scheduled to only reach local shores next year), it seems the units available here will be pre-facelifted models – and at the time of writing most of the units were still listed as available.
The Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 4Matic is the first model in the GLA/GLB range to receive the AMG-specific Panamericana grille and an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. Powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder engine delivering a hefty 225 kW and 400 Nm of torque, the GLB 35 sprints from zero to km/h in a claimed 5.2 seconds and can reach a top speed limited to 250 km/h.
The refreshed version of the boxy compact crossover receives new head- and taillight designs, bigger screens inside and gains a mild hybrid system boosting output by 10 kW. Even so, it is slightly slower than the current model, with a claimed zero to km/h time of 5.5 seconds.
The models now available online come with Mountain Grey Metallic, Patagonia Red Metallic and Digital White Metallic exterior colours, 21” AMG multi-spoke matte-black alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof and de rigueur red contrast stitching.
The base price for the Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 4Matic (as indicated) is R1 404 350, without extras, including the manufacturer’s maintenance plan and warranty.
TEUTONIC TITAN
New Volkswagen Touareg
Volkswagen has upgraded the third generation of the Touareg with extensive suspension improvements for the full-size SUV, a revised display and operating concept, and a sharpened front- and rear-end design. The new Touareg is available with petrol, diesel, or plug-in hybrid drivetrains – and a new top-of-the-range performance model from Volkswagen R; the Touareg R eHybrid.
Particularly striking features of the new Touareg are the newly developed HD matrix front headlights and the LED taillights, which are realised as a light strip and incorporate a Volkswagen logo illuminated in red. The new full-size SUV is also equipped as standard with a new roof load sensor closely integrated with the suspension electronics.
If a roof load is detected, the control system can intervene earlier to increase driving stability. Conversely, without roof load, the system allows for even sportier performance. Depending on the version, the Touareg is available with innovative suspension technologies such as active roll compensation (adaptive running gear) and all-wheel steering to further improve the driving dynamics of the premium SUV.
Inside, the new Touareg receives the Innovision Cockpit, consisting of the Digital Cockpit and the Discover Pro Max high-end infotainment system. Various functions of the Innovision Cockpit, such as lane-level navigation and high-resolution HD map data, have been optimised in the new model.
Besides many standard convenience and assistance systems, the new Touareg has an extensive range of optional systems, including Travel Assist, Trailer Assist and Night Vision.
The Touareg is available with a turbocharged petrol engine, a choice of two turbodiesel engines and two plug-in hybrids, all paired as standard with an eight-speed automatic gearbox and 4Motion permanent all-wheel drive. Besides R-Line models, the new Touareg R eHybrid flagship model is powered by a V6 petrol engine plus an electric motor for a system output of 340 kW.
The latest generation continues a long tradition of Touareg R models with high-tech features and customised equipment, including blue brake callipers with silver R logo, R logo projection as surround lighting, blue interior accents, Vienna leather seats, 20” alloy wheels, sill panel mouldings with illuminated R logo, a panoramic sunroof and four-zone automatic air control. The new Touareg is expected to be introduced locally early next year.
Report by FERDI DE VOS
