http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=854
A global study to determine responses to the current recession show most car buyers are angry and display a lack of trust towards carmakers.
The "Tipping Point" study by Synovate's automotive division Motoresearch was conducted between March and April 2009 and included 120 focus groups across 16 countries, including South Africa.
Respondents were asked about their views and opinions towards global brands and car companies. The study found that, although consumers could be split into three distinct groups, they shared the same views, values and ideals.
South Africans vocal
Future car buyers in South Africa, the US, Germany, UK, Russia, Spain and France showed a desire for change to practice greater self-control and responsibility when it comes to spending.
“For the moment, respondents in these markets are more vocal, expressing their dissatisfaction towards global corporations.
"Many were shocked and frustrated with institutions and brands that have let them down. However, they also accepted some of the blame for fuelling the greed, consuming excessively and living beyond their own means.” said Scott Miller, CEO of Synovate Motoresearch.
“Regardless of who is to blame, consumers now feel that they are bearing the lion’s share of the risk associated with large purchases, from both financial and product integrity perspectives.
"Auto brands need to connect to these consumers by mitigating that risk with a focus on integrity, genuine, lasting value and stronger personal relationships with their customers.” he added.
Lasting shift
However, respondents in China, India and Thailand noted they were less susceptible to the "greed and consumerism" practised in the West, but admitted to feeling the effects of the recession.
Conversely, future car buyers in Japan, Australia, Brazil, South Korea and the UAE were also high critical in the focus groups. Most of their anger was directed towards the US, the study found, who they believed was the primary cause of the global economic slump.
“Interestingly enough, a definite change in discretionary spending is expected among car owners and future car buyers in these markets. As the downturn continues, we will see greater belt-tightening and smart shopping. We are also likely to see a lasting shift in consumer values when it comes to companies and brands,” said Miller.
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Lotus Elise Club Racer
http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=855
Lotus has unveiled the first details about their limited edition Elise Club Racer.
Designed to be a throwback to the classic Lotus models of the 1960s, the Elise Club Racer is available in four retro colors (Elite Yellow, Carbon Grey, Sky Blue and Old English White). While the colors are old school, the anthracite anodized six spoke alloy wheels (outfitted with Yokohama AD07 LTS tires) are thoroughly modern.
Inside, the exterior body color carries over to the transmission tunnel where it is combined with silver and black paint for a truly unique appearance. The exterior paint is also echoed on the sports seats, which are outfitted with lightweight microfiber comfort pads and embroidered CR logos on the headrests. Other interior touches include an anthracite anodized gear knob and a unique anodized aluminum floor covering.
Based on the 99kW Elise S, the Club Racer runs from 0-100 km/h in 6.1 seconds while consuming just 7.6l/100km in the combined cycle.
According to Luke Bennett, Director of Lotus Cars, "We have taken color schemes from our past, used on the Elite and Elan in the 1960s, and cleverly brought them up to date with a modern feel to the interior. The whole design package is modern with a classic twist, which of course matches the peerless ride and handling of a Lotus and the convertible experience of the Elise perfectly."
The Elise Club Racer goes on sale September 15, the same day the car debuts at the Frankfurt Motor Show.
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Porsche Panamera Stingray by Russia's TopCar
http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=856
Russian tuner TopCar has released the first images of their rendition of the Porsche Panamera.
No details were released alongside the images (which clearly have been Photoshop-ed), so any conclusions must be drawn from what we see here.
The bodykit on the Panamera is called the Stingray and was designed by another Russian firm Cardi. The naming may lead one to question what, if any, reference there is to the old Corvette Stingray design here.
What we do see is an aerodynamic package made of carbon fiber with newly designed bumpers, air intakes on the bonnet, the addition of side skirts, and a fixed rear wing. A set of alloy wheels is also part of the tuning package.
The Russian tuner says it is also working on a more extreme Panamera that replaces all body panels with their own kit. TopCar claims it will be partnering with Porsche tuner 9ff to provide for the performance upgrades of their Panamera, as well as doing the work of actually producing the bodykits.
No details on performance enhancements have yet been released.
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2010 Mazda3 MPS
http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=857
Mazda has released new details about their redesigned Mazda3 MPS (Mazda Performance Series) / Mazdaspeed3.
Based on the new Mazda3 hatchback, the MPS boasts sporty styling which helps it stand out from lesser models. Key design features include a hood-mounted intercooler scoop, unique front and rear bumpers, aggressive side skirts, and 18-inch aluminum wheels outfitted with Dunlop tires. Among the other design touches are bi-xenon headlamps, a metallic black rear valance, LED taillights, and a massive roof-mounted rear spoiler.
Power comes from Mazda's MZR 2.3-liter DISI turbocharged engine with 191 kW and 380 Nm of torque. 0-100 km/h comes in 6.1 seconds, while the top speed is limited to 250 km/h. Other performance features include a torque-sensing limited-slip differential, a revised six-speed manual transmission with wider gear ratios, and improved drive shafts to minimize torque steer.
The new MPS rides on a significantly reworked chassis which features a firmer suspension with stiffer springs and higher damping rates. Other improvements include a beefier steering rack for improved steering feel, an electronically-controlled brake assist system, and larger stabilizers for reduced body roll.
Inside, the MPS features a special black interior with red accents, aluminum pedals, and a redesigned instrument cluster with a LCD turbo-boost gauge. Other goodies include sport seats, Bluetooth connectivity, an available 10-speaker Bose audio system and a new multi-information display (MID).
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