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New On The Tarmac: We Drive The Renault Kiger Intens

vuyi on March 7, 2022

By Vuyi Mpofu

If I were a first time car buyer, looking for a spacious, high riding compact SUV with stylish looks, I’d go for the Renault Kiger Intens.
Vuyi Mpofu, Editor Heels & Horsepower Magagzine

It is my belief that Renault South Africa has been very instrumental in changing the perspective South African motorists have of French made vehicles.

Products such as the ever-popular Duster, Kwid and Triber seem to tick all the boxes required by thousands of South Africans, as these vehicles offer both space and functionality at prices which don’t break the bank.

With the introduction of the Renault Kiger, (and now that I have driven it), I can safely say that the French manufacturer’s compact SUV will undoubtedly follow in the successful tyre tracks of the aforementioned cars.

The Renault Kiger made its debut in South Africa towards the end of 2021, and I recently got my heels on the pedal of the brand’s flagship Kiger Intens 1.0L Turbo CVT.

Normally I wouldn’t mention pricing at such an early stage of a review, (as that would be akin to asking for tomato sauce at a fine dining restaurant), but I have to start off by sharing that, at less than R300 000 for the top of the range model, the Intens 1.0L Turbo CVT made a positive impression on me as a vehicle which offers quite a lot of value, particularly for a first time buyer or anyone looking to scale-down.

Exterior Styling

The exterior of the Kiger is eye-catching with design cues that allude to real SUV qualities. It’s front grille has a 3D graphic finish with honeycomb shaped chrome effects, and it boasts Renault’s moniker LED daytime running lights and striking tri-octa LED Pure Vision headlamps. All these work in harmony to give the Kiger an air of sophistication not usually found in its segment.

The tail light units have glossy black inserts which accentuate the Kiger’s rear double C-shaped lighting signature. These blend rather well with the Kiger’s sporty rear bumper.

Overall, the Renault Kiger’s look lend it muscular tones and hints of sportiness one would normally find in bigger SUVs. It’s topped off with silver roof rails, and balanced out with aluminium finish skid plates, all of which add gravitas to the pocket-sized SUV.

Interior, Styling & Tech

The Kiger Intens 1.0L Turbo CVT is reasonably well laid out on the inside, offering a multitude of styling features and tech to suit even the most seasoned palates. Among these are a digitised instrument cluster panel, 8.0-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The Kiger Intens 1.0L Turbo CVT also boasts an auditorium 3D sound system by Arkamys, with eight onboard speakers (four 6,5” speakers, four tweeters). What I liked most about this system, is that it automatically adjusts the volume according to the speed of the vehicle. Needless to say this helped me keep my speed down whenever I pressed the gas pedal a little harder than I should!

The Kiger Intens 1.0L Turbo also comes with a reverse camera, handsfree smart access, ambient lighting, cruise control, keyless entry/start and multifunction steering wheel.

What I Didn’t Like

There is a lot of talk about quality of the interior of the Kiger and I must confess that when I first stepped into it, I felt let down by Renault’s choice of materials and final interior finishing.

For starters, I am not a fan of hard plastic cladding on the interior of any car and didn’t expect to find it in the Kiger. In my view that sort of material is best at home in a hardworking bakkie and not a run-around compact SUV.

Another disappointment was the difficulty in opening the doors from the inside. I found myself tussling with the latch more often than not, then resorting to unlocking the doors using the central locking function just under the central air vents. Of course this unlocked all the doors at once even though I only wanted to open just one door.

I also found the fronts seats a tad narrow which may be a problem for ample sized South African men and women. This problem is further compounded by the challenge of clicking the seatbelt into its latch, because the bulky centre console protrudes quite a bit into the space were you would ordinarily, and comfortably, slide your hand to lock secure the seatbelt lock. One will have to get creative and do all manner of hi movements just to click in the seatbelt!

But enough about what I didn’t fully appreciate. The Kiger does have a lot of good qualities and ticks quite a lot of boxes. Here are two of the most noteworthy interior highlights.

What I Liked

Generous leg and headroom. At just under 4 metres, one would think the seating in the Kiger would be a bit of a squeeze. I found the space within the Kiger pleasantly roomy and I don’t say that simply because I am vertically under par myself. Rear leg room is more than adequate and offers more space than your average economy airline seat.

Lots of storage compartments. There is no shortage of places to squirrel things away in this little SUV. It has four 1-litre water bottle holders, 2 cupholders in the front doors, a storage space in the central armrest as well as an upper and lower glovebox.

In total, according to Renault, there is a total of 29-litres of storage capacity inside the Kiger which is all very impressive but whoever thought it was a good idea NOT to include 2 central cupholders needs to be sent to the naughty corner with immediate effect’.

The Drive

Driving the Kiger Intens was more pleasurable than I could have imagined. Backing out of the driveway in my city home in Fourways, I pointed the Intens grille in the direction of the highway then towards the Gauteng provincial border, as I headed home to the farm.

I remember wondering if the Kiger would cope better on city roads or along the gravel roads which lead to the homestead.

Engine & Performance

Thanks to its sprightly 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbocharged engine, it wasn’t long before I was in the thick of Johannesburg traffic. With 74kW on tap the Intens kept up effortlessly.

I was struck by how little noise emanated from it CVT gearbox which is a huge plus in my book (anyone who knows anything about me will attest that I abhor traditional CVTs because they shriek and squeal like a 2 year old having quite the tantrum).

Driving Modes

The Kiger has three different driving modes for three different driving experiences – Normal, Eco and Sport mode.

Normal mode offers a well, normal driving experience and I used this mode for the duration of my 7 day test period. Suited for city driving conditions, normal mode provides useful information such as real-time and average fuel consumption. In normal mode, the Kiger provides an adequately responsive performance and in all honesty, this is the mode I believe the Kiger should be driven in the most.

Next, I flicked the switch to Eco mode. I’m not a driving Miss Daisy type of motorist so Eco is not a mode I particularly enjoy. As the name suggests, Eco provides a drive which is inclined towards economic driving practices, making for a leisurely drive.

On the opposite end of the spectrum Sport mode provides an energetic drive thanks to the sharpened throttle response. Sport mode doesn’t bode well with fuel efficiency and I soon had to take my pedicured foot off the gas.

Arriving at the farm I turned off the tarmac and ventured onto the gravel. The Kiger didn’t miss a beat and continued to eat up the road ahead of it with ease.

I was struck by the fact that comfort levels didn’t change when driving on dirt and simultaneously discovered how nimble the Intens is as I dodged goats and ducks which are yet to become accustomed to vehicles moving faster than the farm’s all familiar tractor.

Giving The Local Vicar A Ride

Later in the week, when traversing between the farm and the nearby village, I was met with admiring glances from the locals. The male folk was in agreement that the Kiger is best suited for their wives and when I announced its pricing they were doubly sold.

As the group prepared to disperse, one of the elder men in the group suggested that I give the village priest a ride to his church; I managed a weak grin in agreement as the elder in question glared at me meaningfully.

Excited, the priest hopped over to the driver’s side and yanked at the door much to the amusement of the watchful group as they loudly reminded him that this wasn’t a taxi and that the door didn’t need to be pulled off its hinges.

My nerves got the better of me as I started off, (probably due to a sense of guilt; I haven’t been to confession in ages) and unwittingly drove over potholes I would ordinarily have managed to avoid.

The Kiger Interns took these in stride while the Man-of-God punctuated each mishap with an evangelical Halleluiah.

I later learned that was his way of showing appreciation for the Kiger’s sturdiness and not a disguised reprimand in response to my driving skills.

As I dropped him off at the gate of the church building he turned and said a short prayer for my continued safety, adding if the man upstairs granted me favour in winning the national lottery, I would find it in my heart to purchase and donate such a vehicle to the church.

I said amen.

Safety

The Renault Kiger Intens 1.0L Turbo CVY is equipped with numerous safety features in line with 3-star global NCAP requirements, namely:

A reinforced body structure
ABS+EBD
ESP
ISOFIX (for child seat safety)
4 Airbags (front + passenger + front side airbags)
Seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
Rear parking sensors
Impact sensing door lock
Pedestrian protection

It also has remote central locking, child locks, and ISOFIX fittings to mention a few.

The Verdict

I enjoyed driving the Intens and honestly feel that it is a good buy. Its competitors for those looking to stand out from their peers who may be driving the Kiger’s competitors such as the Toyota Urban Cruiser, Suzuki Breeza and Kia Sonet). In truth, the Kiger is one handsome little fellow. It looks the business and is quite capable getting the job of taking you from point A to point B safely.

Being a compact SUV, the Kiger is at home both in city traffic as well as on the dusty farmlands where I live. I wouldn’t mind having it my run around car – something I have never said of any vehicle of this category.

Range and Pricing:

The Renault Kiger range is available in 3 trims – Life, Zen and Intens. I had the range topping Interns Turbo CVT.

KIGER Life 1.0L R204 900
KIGER Zen 1.0L R219 400
KIGER Zen 1.0L AMT R229 900
KIGER Zen 1.0L Turbo R259 900
KIGER Intens 1.0L Turbo R279 900
KIGER Intens 1.0L Turbo CVT R299 900

As with all Renault products, the Kiger comes standard with a 5-year/150 000km mechanical warranty and a 6-year anti-corrosion warranty. Service intervals are at 15 000km.

New on the Tarmac: Meet the updated Jaguar I-PACE

vuyi on February 2, 2021

Since its debut the I-PACE has won more than 80 global awards, including 2019 World Car of the Year, World Car Design of the Year, World Green Car and AutoTrader 2020 South African Car of the Year.

An updated Jaguar I-PACE offering a new infotainment system, improved driver assistance technologies and quicker charging capabilities is now available in South Africa.

Highlights of the updated I-PACE include:

New Pivi Pro infotainment system, which features a 12.3-inch high-definition virtual instrument cluster, together with 10-inch and 5-inch upper and lower touchscreens. Inspired by smartphone technology, Pivi Pro is easy to use and features a powerful processor, to ensure navigation initialisation is almost instantaneous. The redesigned navigation system reduces the number of steps required to set a destination by half. It also allows users to pan and zoom in and out of the map with a pinch of the fingers, just as one would with a smartphone.

Wireless Device Charging Pad. The I-PACE is now also available with an optional wireless device charging pad beneath the ‘floating’ centre console. Wireless charging also includes signal boosting, ensuring the phone’s signal remains stronger for longer. A Smartphone Pack with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is standard on all derivatives, as is a dual modem embedded SIM and Bluetooth technology which can pair two phones simultaneously.

Cabin Air Ionisation. Designed to remove allergens, cabin air ionisation features a filtration system which captures ultrafine particles to improve occupant health and wellbeing. One important benefit to the new filtration system is that, when charging, customers can use the I-PACE’s pre-conditioning system (which optimises battery temperature) to also purge the cabin of allergens and ultrafine particles before beginning a journey.

New 3D Surround Camera. Visibility had been significantly enhanced in the updated I-PACE thanks to a new 3D Surround Camera that provides a 360-degree digital plan view of the surrounding area and potential hazards.

Meridian 3D Surround Sound System. Customers can now benefit from the option of an enhanced Meridian 3D Surround Sound System with TrifieldTM technology. The system features two additional speakers in the cabin headliner, meaning the 16 speaker and one subwoofer arrangement delivers an exceptional experience for all occupants.

ClearSight. The ClearSight rear view mirror further improves vision and convenience by ensuring the driver always has an unobstructed view of the road behind, even with three people in the rear seat. ClearSight uses a wide-angle, rear-facing camera linked to a high-resolution screen within the frameless glass mirror.

Vehicle charging: The updated JaguarI-PACE now comes with an 11kW on-board charger as standard, enabling customers with access to three-phase electricity supplies to enjoy significantly faster charging. When connected to an 11kW wall box 53km* of range (WLTP) per hour can be achieved, while a full charge from empty now takes only 8.6 hours – ideal for overnight charging at home.

South African customers with access to single-phase supply can continue using 7kW wall boxes which charge up to 35km per hour, with a full charge taking 12.75 hours. When charging ‘on the go’, a 60kW charger will add up to 76km in 15 minutes, while a 100kW charger will add up to 127km over the same period.

All new or Approved Pre-Owned Jaguar customers in South Africa also receive complimentary driver training at the state-of-the-art Experience Johannesburg facility in Lonehill, Johannesburg.

With a range of up to 470km (WLTP) from its 90kWh battery, customers with an average daily commute would only need to charge their I-PACE once a week**.

Prices:

I-PACE EV400 S: R1,942,600

I-PACE EV400 SE: R2,005,100

I-PACE EV400 HSE: R2,112,300

* Range added per one-hour/15-minute period is WLTP range

** Based on data captured by Jaguar’s Go I-PACE app in the UK.

New On The Tarmac: Meet Mazda’s all new compact SUV, the CX-30

vuyi on January 28, 2021

First revealed at the Geneva International Motor Show in March 2019 and launched internationally in April 2019, the latest SVU offering from Mazda is now available in South Africa.

Mazda Southern Africa has unveiled the second model in its 7^th Generation line-up, the Mazda CX-30 compact SUV. The new compact SUV forms part of Mazda’s CX Range and slots between the Mazda CX-3 and Mazda CX-5.

The model line-up consists of three derivatives, offered in front-wheel drive (FWD) and automatic transmission: Active, Dynamic and Individual and is powered by a 2.0L SKYACTIV-G engine, which puts out 121kW of power and 213Nm of torque.

Every vehicle in the range comes standard with high grade features such as LED Headlamps with Auto levelling; Driver, Passenger, Knee (Driver), Side & Curtain airbags; Head-Up Display (HUD); MZD Connect infotainment system with an 8.8-Inch Display Screen; Apple Carplay™and Android Auto™, to name a few.

Available in a choice of nine exterior colours, Active and Dynamic grades feature 16-inch grey metallic alloy wheels, while the Individual grade features 18-inch silver metallic alloy wheels.

Since its launch in 2019, the Mazda CX-30 has received many accolades, including: winner of the Car of the Year 2020 in Thailand, winner of the 2020 Red Dot Design Award, earned five stars and the highest safety rating in the Euro NCAP, won the 2020 Design Trophy in the SUV category in Germany, and being a finalist for the 2020 World Car of the Year Award.

The Mazda CX-30 comes standard with a 3-year unlimited kilometre service plan, 3-year factory warranty, 3-year roadside assistance and 5-year Corrosion Warranty.

Pricing:

Mazda CX-30 2,0L Active: R469 000-00

Mazda CX-30 2,0L Dynamic: R499 000-00

Mazda CX-30 2,0L Individual: R540 000-00

Meet the new Toyota Hilux – Tougher & More Advanced

vuyi on October 7, 2020

First launched in 2016, the eighth-generation Hilux debuted with an increased focus on technology, convenience and comfort, while still retaining the traditional Hilux hallmarks of toughness and durability.

The new model builds on the robust foundation of the eighth-generation architecture and represents a new frontier with even greater dynamic performance, technology, style and features.

New Grade Strategy : In keeping with a progressive target market and evolving market trends, the model line-up and grade strategy has undergone a revision. The utility-focused S and SR models continue as before, complete with their original front façades. The largest change to the grade strategy takes place in the ‘mid-range’ where the long-serving SRX nomenclature falls away, being replaced by Raider.

“The SRX model has continuously evolved in line with market requests and in turn advanced into traditional Raider territory. We saw this as an opportunity to rationalise the line-up and offer customers more across the board. SRX and Raider have now effectively merged, creating an opportunity for a flagship grade above Raider – and this is precisely what the new Legend grade will offer,” says Glenn Crompton, Vice-President of Marketing.

“We’ve also created three distinctive appearance profiles for the respective core grades. S and SR keep their current design traits, Raider continues with its chrome-accented styling and Legend will offer a distinctive new look aimed specifically at the leisure user,” he added.

The most visible change is found at the front of the vehicle

Exterior Styling: The most visible change is found at the front of the vehicle, with new chiseled, slim-line headlamps flanking an all-new front-grille and bumper design. The new styling now aligns with Toyota’s global truck-design language and gives Hilux a modern yet unmistakably tough appearance.

Raider: Raider models feature a large, trapezoidal front grille with broad chrome border and horizontally-separated 3D grille elements. New boomerang-shaped fog lamp bezels and integrated bumper guard round off the design. 2.4 GD-6 models receive an upgrade to four-bulb Halogen headlamps, while 2.8 GD-6 Raider derivatives now boast a Bi-LED configuration with stylised internal-light-guides and LED turn-signal lamps. The side profile remains largely unchanged, with the rear tail lamps also receiving the stylised LED treatment (2.8 models only). A chrome rear-step bumper and chrome door handles create unity with the front design.

Befitting the increased urban and leisure use, Raider and Legend models boast an all-new 8-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality

Legend: The Legend name now signifies a new flagship grade built on the brand equity of the previous celebratory models, to introduce a Hilux like never before. The trapezoidal grille (outlined in black) integrates with the front bumper, bonnet protector and unique integrated skidplate – to create an imposing front façade. Further differentiation is achieved with dark-plated headlamp inserts and a centred chrome inlay, which suspends the Toyota insignia. A graphite rear bumper and Legend-specific tailgate garnish complete the package. The overall result is a rugged, yet advanced look.

Legend ‘RS’: An optional ‘RS’ accessory package (referring to Roller Shutter) will be offered on Legend-grade models which amplifies both utility and aesthetics, offering a motorised roller shutter, graphite-coloured sportsbar, rubberised bedliner, assisted tailgate with central-locking function and dust-defence kit.

All Hilux models are also equipped with the Toyota Connect telematics system which includes an in-car Wi-Fi hotspot and complimentary 15Gb data

Interior Upgrades

Raider: A new instrument cluster design welcomes the driver and features an 8-inch infotainment system which incorporates a floating screen-design while retaining rotary adjustment knobs for ease of use. It is framed by a metallic border – reminiscent of high-end electronics.

Legend: Legend variants receive bespoke interior treatment befitting their flagship status. A unique accent treatment is applied to the instrument cluster, interior trim panels, switchgear and gear lever. Cool, blue door illumination provides a sophisticated ambience and complements the perforated leather upholstery and black roof lining.

Exterior Colours: A total of nine exterior colours are on offer, including the newly-added Oxide Bronze (replacing Avant-Garde Bronze) and a first for Hilux, Pearl White. Attitude Black is exclusively available on 2.8 GD-6 4×4 Legend models.

More Power & Performance: The enhancements are not limited to aesthetics however, as the output of the 2.8 GD-6 engine has been boosted by 20kW to 150kW, with an additional 50Nm on offer, bringing the figure to 500Nm (in auto transmission guise).

New-Generation Infotainment: Befitting the increased urban and leisure use, Raider and Legend models boast an all-new 8-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality. This allows users to mirror applications off their mobile phone – for seamless connectivity. Navigation applications such as Google Maps and Waze are natively included and occupants can also access their music libraries and streaming accounts via apps like Apple Music, JOOX, Spotify and SoundCloud. Wireless telephony is supported via Bluetooth with a USB input for additional media options.

All Hilux models come with a 3-year/100 000 km warranty

Safety & Security: For the first time on Hilux, the Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) safety system forms part of the standard inventory on Legend 4×4 models. TSS integrates a Pre-collision system, Lane Departure Alert and Adaptive Cruise Control – to offer drivers additional peace of mind. TSS joins the existing array of airbags, ISOFIX, seatbelt pre-tensioners and the full suite of active safety aids (ABS, EBD, Brake Assist, VSC, Trailer Sway Control, Traction Control). As before, 4×4 models also include Downhill Assist Control (DAC).

A comprehensive anti-theft system, speed-dependent auto-door lock function and remote or keyless locking functionality is included.

Toyota Connect: All Hilux models are also equipped with the Toyota Connect telematics system which includes an in-car Wi-Fi hotspot and complimentary 15Gb data. Once linked to their profile, customers can manage their vehicle via the MyToyota App. This intuitive app allows on-demand service bookings, vehicle information and history, tracking data as well as Toyota Connect data recharge services and much more – latterly even including the ability to renew your vehicle license online.

Warranty and Maintenance: All Hilux models come with a 3-year/100 000 km warranty. A 9-services/90 000 km service plan is standard on all models. Customers can also purchase extended service plans and warranty packages via their Toyota dealer.

Model Line-up and Pricing

SINGLE CAB	MODEL	PRICE
S	2.7 VVTI RB S 5MT	R 386,700
2.0 VVTi S 5MT	R 291,100
2.0 VVTi S A/C 5MT	R 299,800
2.4 GD S 5MT	R 328,400
2.4 GD S A/C 5MT	R 337,200
SR	2.4 GD-6 RB SR 6MT	R 414,500
2.4 GD-6 4X4 SR 6MT	R 482,000
RAIDER	2.4 GD-6 RB RAIDER 6MT	R 447,800
2.4 GD-6 RB RAIDER 6AT	R 466,100
2.4 GD-6 4X4 RAIDER 6MT	R 520,700
2.4 GD-6 4X4 RAIDER 6AT	R 540,900
2.8 GD-6 RB RAIDER 6AT	R 532,300
2.8 GD-6 4X4 RAIDER 6AT	R 602,400

XTRA CAB	MODEL	PRICE
RAIDER	2.4 GD-6 RB RAIDER 6MT	R 460,000
2.4 GD 6 RB RAIDER 6AT	R 478,200
LEGEND	2.8 GD-6 RB LEGEND 6MT	R 550,000
2.8 GD-6 RB LEGEND 6AT	R 574,900
2.8 GD-6 4×4 LEGEND 6MT	R 622,000
2.8 GD-6 4×4 LEGEND 6AT	R 647,300

DOUBLE CAB	MODEL	PRICE
S	2.7 VVTi RB S 5MT	R 440,400
SR	2.4 GD-6 RB SR 6MT	R 476,900
2.4 GD-6 4X4 SR 6MT	R 549,200
RAIDER	2.4 GD-6 RB RAIDER 6MT	R 505,200
2.4 GD-6 RB RAIDER 6AT	R 521,200
2.4 GD-6 4X4 RAIDER 6MT	R 583,700
2.4 GD-6 4X4 RAIDER 6AT	R 609,500
2.8 GD-6 RB RAIDER 6AT	R 631,900
2.8 GD-6 4X4 RAIDER 6AT	R706,400
LEGEND	2.8 GD-6 RB LEGEND 6MT	TBC
2.8 GD-6 RB LEGEND 6AT	R 696,200
2.8 GD-6 4X4 LEGEND 6MT	R 733,500
2.8 GD-6 4X4 LEGEND 6AT	R 765,600
4.0 V6 4X4 LEGEND 6AT	R 765,200

New Cars On The Tarmac

vuyi on June 25, 2020

Here are a few of the latest cars available on the market in South Africa.

DATSUN GO

Anilda van Heedern attended the launch of the new Automatic CVT (continuous variable transmission) versions of the Datsun GO and GO+ which now have improved power and fuel economy.

The new Datsun Go models are equipped with a three-cylinder engine which delivers 57kW of power (7kW more than in the manual) and 104Nm of torque. They also come with dual airbags, ABS with EBD and BA, reverse parking sensors, follow-me-home headlamps, front and rear power windows, battery saving features, remote key, power steering and 14” machined Alloy wheels. The vehicles are available in a range of exciting colours including Red, Silver, Grey, White, Orange and the new colour Vivid Blue (additionally we have Sandstone Brown for GO+).

Anilda’s most memorable impressions are:

LIKES

USB port
LCD touch screen
Apple/Android interface
2 cup holders in front of handbrake area
Very fuel efficient (around 5L per 100km)

DISLIKES

Lack of quick acceleration e.g. to overtake a truck.
Petrol gauge is small and not that visible.
Seat belts don’t adjust up or down.
The boot only opens with a key, and there is no door handle on the boot door either
Using the handbrake is a must even when the car is in Park as it does not hold a dead stop but continues to run either back/forward for a few centimetres.

Starting price: R

PEUGEOT 5008

The all-new PEUGEOT 5008 breaks new ground as a large seven-seater SUV. Featuring a raised ride height, it’s striking front includes a prominent chrome grille with decorative chrome inserts, signature headlamps with LED daytime running lights, slanted rear windows and a three-claw LED lights, integrated into the rear black panel.

Offering an exceptional on-board experience for occupants and a myriad of smart features for additional driving ease, the Peugeot 5008 boasts a compact steering wheel, an 8” touchscreen, and a 12.3” high-resolution digital head-up instrument. Seven central satin chrome dashboard switches offer quick access to functionssuch as: Radio, Air Conditioning, Satellite Navigation, vehicle settings, telephone, apps, and hazard warning lights.

Ideal for families, the 5008’s has aninnovative seating configuration- three matching, separate, folding and tilting seats in the second rowand two removable, separate, folding seats in the third row; as well as a practical hands-free smart electric tailgate.

The Peugeot 5008 is available in two petrol engines – 1.6L THP 121kW six speed automaticand 2.0L HDI 110kW six-speed automatic.

Starting Price: R534 900-00 incl. VAT

TOYOTA QUANTUM VX

Signalling new territory for the Toyota Quantum range, the Quantum VX enters the luxury-people-carrier arena with an impressive array of luxury and comfort features. It features17” alloy wheels, a large chrome-finished radiator grille, chrome exterior door handles and power adjustable, auto-retracting mirrors, with blind spot monitoring functionality.

The 9-seater Quantum VX provides a limousine-like degree of cabin comfort for up to eight passengers, including a large captain’s chair, independent rear climate control and multiple USB ports, quilted leather upholstery, power-adjustment for the backrest and a fold out “ottoman” leg-rest. Other features consist of an array of driver assistance features as part of the Toyota Safety Sense suite. These include Pre-Collision Safety system (PCS) with pedestrian detection (day and night) and cyclist detection (day only); high-speed active cruise control; lane departure alert; road sign assist; as well as a 4.2” multi-information display, rain-sensing wipers, LED room lamps, tilt and telescopic steering adjustment, power windows and rear sunshade, to mention a few.

Powering the Quantum VX is a 6-speed automatic transmission linked to Toyota’s proven four-cylinder 2.8 GD-6 turbodiesel engine, with outputs of 115kW and 420Nm.

Priced at: R 843 600

MAZDA2 FACELIFT

Featuring a new, more sophisticated design, new Skyactiv-Technologies and enhanced i-Activsense safety features, an upgraded version of the popular hatchback, the Mazda2, is now available.

With a very capable 1.5L petrol engine in both manual and automatic transmissions, the G-Generation Mazda2 range consists of six derivatives made up of the Active (Entry spec), Dynamic (Mid spec) and Individual and Hazumi (High spec) grade levels.

Comfort and convenience on board have been improved through the availability of the Bluetooth hands-free system across the range, from the Dynamic model; an auto- dimming rear view mirror, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), for smoother vehicle movements and handling.

An expanded range of advanced safety features now includes LED headlamps fitted as standard across the model range. Side and curtain airbags, auto dimming rear-view mirror from the Dynamic model. Auto fold mirrors, reverse camera, rear parking sensors from the Individual model and Rear Cross Traffic Alert on the Hazumi.

Starting price: R254 300

New Motorbikes On The Tarmac

vuyi on June 25, 2020

Suzuki Katana

Well known connoisseur motorcycle manufacturer Suzuki recently unveiled its most beguiling beauty in the form of the new Suzuki Katana. Paying homage to the GSX1100S Katana of the eighties, the new contemporary motorcycle from Suzuki effortlessly highlights sculptured lines and precisely contoured panels in its bold and intricate structure. Vertically stacked LED headlight and front position lights accent the sharp lines of the Katana’s distinctive face; and its tail light features a striking lighting pattern. Sleek, lean and athletic, the new Suzuki Katana promises its ride the thrill of a lifetime thanks to its 1000cc engine. The new Katana also relies on its 6-speed transmission, back-torque-limiting clutch, Suzuki’s three-model traction control system and new tyres with tubeless structure which have been designed specifically for the Katana. Weighing 215kg and standing at 1,110mm high, the Katana measure 835mm wide and is 2,130mm in length. The new Suzuki Katana is available in Metallic Mystic Silver and Glass Sparkle Black.

Priced from: R187 500-00

Triumph Rocket 3 R

Triumph has released the all-new Rocket 3 R which reportedly delivers incredible control, comfort, capability and instantaneous world-leading torque. The muscular new Rocket 3 R features distinctive twin full LED headlights including the distinctive Triumph triangle branding. The sculptured 3-header exhaust is a hallmark style focal point of the new Rocket 3 range while the 20-spoke wheels enhance the Rocket 3’s dramatic look. Its stylish handlebars, give the rider of this impressive beast a command riding position. The Rocket 3’s 2,500cc triple is the world’s largest production motorcycle engine, delivering 123kW of power and 221Nm of peak torque paired to a 6-speed gearbox. For rider ease, the all-new Rocket 3 features a TFT multi-functional instrument pack with digital speedometer, trip computer, digital tachometer, gear position indicator, fuel gauge, service indicator, ambient temperature, clock and rider modes (rain, road, sport and rider-configurable). The Triumph Rocket 3 has an 18litre petrol tank and is available in Phantom Black and Korossi Red.

Priced from: R299 000-00

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin

The 2020 CRF1100L Africa Twin derivatives from Honda are set to up the ante within the adventure motorcycle arena. With more power, the new models are more technologically advanced, lighter in weight and equipped with more driver aids than ever before. There are two Africa Twin motorbikes available being – the standard Africa Twin and the Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES. Both motorcycles are driven by a 1,084cc engine, firing 75kW and 105Nm, paired to either a six-speed manual or automatic dual-clutch transmission. The standard Africa Twin is designed for improved sporting and off-road performance, while the Adventure Sports ES – tailored for comfortable long distance quests – is fitted with heated grips and Showa Electronically Equipped Ride Adjustment suspension (EERA). Both 2020 Africa Twin bikes feature a 6.5-inch TFT (thin-film transistor) colour touchscreen display, which is Apple CarPlay compatible. New rider aids include wheelie control, cornering ABS, rear-lift control, DCT cornering detection, cornering lights and cruise control as standard. The Honda CRF100L Africa Twin and Adventure Sports ES are available in Rally Red Metallic or Black Matt.

Priced from R210 000-00

BMW S 1000 RR

One glance at the S 1000 RR confirms that is an indomitably spirited high-performance machine.

The new S 1000 RR features front indicators which have been repositioned from the fairing to the rear view mirrors, resulting in an aesthetically pleasing look as well as improved visibility. To the rear, the S 1000 RR shows off number plate lighting and the inclusion of LED turn signals in the number plate holder, a design which fuses sex appeal with everyday practicality.

At the heart of the much anticipated German thorough-breed, is the newly engineered four-cylinder enginespitting a heart-thumping 152kW and 113Nm. Reaching a top speed of 299km/hr, street superbike is fitted with BMW Motorrad Race ABS (part integral) and has ABS fittings for Rain, Road and Dynamic mode (Note – no ABS in Race mode). Other standard features include Dynamic Traction Control, Hill Start Control, Shift Assist Pro, TFT display and LED headlight and rear light. The BMW S 1000 RR is available in Hockenheim silver metallic, Racing red non-metallic and Light white/Racing blue metallic/Racing red.

Priced from R311 400-00