Not only is the Ford Mustang Mach 1 the most track-focused Mustang yet, it is an exclusive limited-edition model with only 90 units available for the southern African market. This makes the new Mustang Mach 1 a highly sought-after car that pays tribute to the original, iconic 1969 version but with all the modern design and performance attributes that have helped make the current generation the world’s best-selling sports car.
The V8-powered Mustang GT already delivers exhilarating performance but a specially calibrated 338kW version of the 5.0-litre unit in the Mach 1 ensures even greater thrills, combined with unique transmission specifications, bespoke aerodynamics and new performance component cooling systems for greater agility and consistent on-track performance. Mustang Mach 1 delivers 0-100 km/h acceleration in 4.4 seconds with increased downforce, compared with the Mustang GT for enhanced cornering capability and high-speed stability.
Thoroughbred performance
Specially tuned for a “reward-to-rev” character that makes the Mustang driving experience more satisfying than ever, the Mustang Mach 1’s Ford V8 engine combines a high-performance Open Air Induction System, intake manifold and throttle bodies with low-pressure port fuel injection and high-pressure direct fuel injection for 338kW.
Sustained performance driving is supported by auxiliary engine oil cooler and a new engine oil filter adaptor to ensure optimum oil flow and consistent performance on track. Mustang Mach 1 customers have a choice of high-strength, high-precision transmissions designed to comfortably manage high-rev gearshifts. The TREMEC 6-speed manual gearbox derived from the Shelby GT350 features a robust twin-disc clutch and short-throw shifter, while aggressive upshifts and downshifts are made smoother, more precise and easier to perform.
Aerodynamic enhancements include new two-piece upper as well as lower and side grilles for improved cooling, and a new front splitter, single-deck rear spoiler and performance rear diffuser for optimised downforce and aero balance. It takes 32 metres for it to come from 100km/h to a complete standstill, courtesy of the 6-piston Brembo brake calipers.
Combining with enhanced aerodynamics to deliver Mustang’s sharpest directional changes and most agile responses to-date, electric power-assisted steering, electronically-controlled MagneRide® 2 adjustable suspension, and stiffer front springs and anti-roll bars are all uniquely tuned for Mustang Mach 1. The suspension architecture is configured to mitigate squat, dive and lift under hard acceleration and extreme braking conditions. Selectable Drive Modes, including Sport and Track modes, are standard.
Inside, leather sports seats feature Metal Grey stitching a unit number. Standard comfort and convenience technologies include heated and cooled front seats, SYNC 3 connectivity and a premium 10-speaker B&O Sound System. Signalling the Mustang Mach 1’s exclusive status, all units are painted in metallic Fighter Jet Grey, complemented by satin black/reflective orange stripes. A bespoke-tuned Active Valve Performance Exhaust system adds an unmistakable look in addition to the unique sound.
Fresh looking 2022 Volvo XC90
The Volvo XC90 premium SUV has been given a refresh for the 2022 model year and the revised models. The 2022 Volvo XC90 ushers in mild-hybrid technology for the petrol models, with the previous T5 making way for the new B5 and the T6 being replaced by B6. In addition, buyers will once again be able to opt for a T8 Twin-Engine plug-in hybrid, which offers 300kW. The mild hybrid powertrains feature an integrated starter generator as well as a Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS), which harnesses braking energy to charge the 48-volt battery.
While efficiency has improved with the introduction of the new mild-hybrid petrol powertrains, the outputs are slightly different, for the record. While the T6 produced 235kW, the B6 pushes 220kW, although maximum torque has risen from 400Nm to 420Nm. The B5 now offers 183kW and 350Nm (was 187kW). The D5 turbodiesel model soldiers on as before with 173kW and 480Nm.
Buyers of the 2022 Volvo XC90 can also look forward to an upgraded 8-speed automatic gearbox with shift-by-wire technology operated through a new Swedish crystal gear lever. Furthermore, Volvo says it has vastly improved the stop/start (idle-stop) system to respond much faster and ensure that the switching on and off functions are “barely discernible”.
The 2022 Volvo XC90 could be the last combustion-engined version of the Swedish carmaker’s flagship SUV as word on the street is that the next-generation model will be fully electric, with design inspiration coming from the recent Volvo Concept Range.
Ford Ranger Stormtrack edition is now available
Ford’s latest addition is already creating waves on our roads. The Stormtrack is built at Ford’s South African plant at Silverton. It is based on the Wildtrack model and it slots between that and the Raptor. There is quite a lot of kit to justify the Stormtrack’s price premium over the Wildtrack, including a unique exterior design package and a Power Roller Shutter with an adjustable bed divider. The drop-in bed liner also incorporates a 12-volt socket that can be used for powering accessories such as a camping fridge.
Only one engine is offered, and it is none other than Ford’s 2.0-litre twin-turbo diesel unit that’s also fitted to the Wildtrak and Raptor. Paired with a 10-speed automatic gearbox, the engine produces 157kW and 500Nm. The exterior styling package includes a black mesh grille with red inserts, black decals on the bonnet and doors, three-dimensional Stormtrack logos, black roof rails and gloss black 18-inch alloy wheels. The cabin is set apart by leather seats with red contrast stitching that you’ll find throughout the cabin. The
The Stormtrack also comes with illuminated front scuff plates. Standard features include a Sync3 infotainment system with satnav, Adaptive Cruise Control with Forward Collision Alert, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Keeping Alert, Semi-Automatic Parallel Park Assist and the FordPass remote access system. In terms of aftersales, the Ford Ranger Stormtrack is sold with a six-year/90 000km service plan as well as a four-year/120 000km warranty.
2022 Audi A8 and S8 is now sharp looking & big on technology
Audi is attempting to keep its A8 flagship sedan at the cutting edge with a fresh design and new technologies, at the same time making attempts to stay at the top of the game in the limo class where the Mercedes S-Class is best known.
Beneath the bonnet, Audi is offering four engine choices to overseas customers. These include a 3.0 TDI turbodiesel that’s good for 210kW and 600Nm, a 3.0-litre V6 turbopetrol with 250kW, a plug-in hybrid that pairs the aforementioned engine to an electric motor for a 340kW output, and an S8 flagship powered by Audi’s 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8. The S8 produces 420kW and 800Nm and, according to claims, is capable of accelerating from 0-100km/h in 3.8 seconds.
Adaptive air suspension with controlled damping is standard, while Audi’s rear-wheel steering system is part of the deal for S8 customers. The cabin of the Audi A8 continues as before, offering a wide range of trims and features while the advanced voice assistance system responds to “Hey Audi”. Head-up Display and MMI Navigation plus are standard in the new A8.
There are plenty of back seat options for those who prefer to be driven, including new 10.1-inch full HD screens. Furthermore, the rear seat remote, which is now firmly mounted on the centre armrest, allows many comfort and infotainment functions to be controlled from the back seat. The new Audi A8 is available with around 40 advanced driver assistance systems, some of which are optional through ‘Park,’ ‘City’ and ‘Tour’ equipment packages.
