Sidebar: the latest motoring news
Your guide to what is happening in the world of luxury cars, bikes and boats
AUDI A8
Audi is playing catch-up in the luxury market, after falling behind in recent years. With the latest generation A8, due in South Africa in the second half of 2018, the company is hoping that the sharp styling and high level of interior comfort and technology will enable it to compete with its German rivals. Audi is also banking on the autonomous driving technology in the car, although not all of this capability will be available in South Africa.
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BMW X7
BMW has finally revealed its long-awaited X7 concept. Many people are less than impressed with its styling, which we can only hope will be toned down slightly for the production version, but there is no doubt that the Bavarian brand is intent on taking on the super-luxury sports-utility vehicle segment. The X7 will feature three rows of seats, all the technology available to the company right now, and a level of ride comfort to match the 7 Series.
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VOLVO XC40
We have known for some time that Volvo was working on a joint collaboration with its parent company, Chinese car-maker Geely. That collaboration has given birth to the new Volvo XC40, a car that the brand is confident will take on the likes of the new Jaguar E-Pace, Audi Q3, and, most importantly, the Range Rover Evoque. The exterior styling brings something unique, if a little quirky, to this model, while the interior reflects the modern era of superb Volvo design. Expect it in South Africa in the second quarter of 2018.
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FERRARI PORTOFINO
When Ferrari introduced a lower-level model in the form of the California, it was clearly a good business decision. Maranello wanted to increase its sales beyond high-end sports cars, and the California proved to be a success. Now the brand has revealed its successor, the Portofino, which arrives in South Africa in 2018. Expect a brand-new chassis; revised, turbocharged V8; and elements from models such as the 488 GTB and 812 Superfast.
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