RMI PEEVED BY LOOMING "UNFAIR" CO2 TAXES

South Africa’s Retail Motor Industry organisation has reacted strongly to Government’s statement that CO2 tax, scheduled to be levied on passenger cars from September 1, will be charged as a flat rate as part of the selling price of vehicles.

In news reports, National Treasury spokesman Jabulani Sikhakhane has been quoted as saying that Government intends the tax to be applied to all passenger cars – including double cab pick-ups, which traditionally have been classified as commercial vehicles.

M SPORT PACKAGE FOR NEW BMW X3

The M Sport Package for the all-new BMW X3 was leaked ahead of its official launch. M Sport Package is meant to make the cars look cooler and much sportier than their standard brethren. Engines are not touched though, so changes are only cosmetic aerodynamic.

FIERY FORD FOCUS RS CONFIRMED FOR SOUTH AFRICA

Performance Ford enthusiasts will now have the opportunity to own the legendary Ford Focus RS. Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa (FMCSA) has confirmed that a limited run of the ultimate hot hatch will be made available in South Africa later this year.

“There has been a great deal of demand for the Ford Focus RS,” says Ben Pillay, Ford Marketing Manager. “It’s an iconic model and we are very excited that South African customers, who are so passionate about performance, will now have the opportunity to own one.” 

R2.4 MILLION SLS AMG NOW IN MZANSI

Prices for the new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG “Gullwing” have been announced for the South African market. The supercar will cost R2 425 000 in standard form and is available immediately from selected AMG dealers across Mzansi. There are some options of course, such as bucket seats and ceramic brakes.

The SLS AMG is powered by a 6.2-litre V8 naturally aspirated engine making 420kW and 650Nm of torque. The gearbox is a 7-speed automatic that can be changed via paddles. Merc claims a 3.8 second 0 – 100km/h sprint time and a top velocity of 317km/h.