Heels & Horsepower Magazine

Honda Dream Days Cash Back Sale

By H&H Admin

Honda Motor Southern Africa announces the return of Honda Dream Days with an exciting CASH BACK SALE!

From 14-31 March 2022 Honda Dream Days CASH BACK SALE will offer customers great deals on *selected Honda vehicles!

For many years, Honda Dream Days Sales events have been affording customers the opportunity of joining the Honda family by offering great deals on selected Honda vehicles.

Honda Dreams Days has become an important event on Honda’s sales calendar and this year’s event, taking place from 14-31 March 2022 will be offering attractive CASH BACK deals on selected vehicles for a limited period of time.

The Honda Dream Days CASH BACK Sales event also gives customers the opportunity to *structure their cash back deal according to their financial needs.

Honda has a variety of vehicles to offer potential customers depending on their requirements and budget. The Honda Dream Days CASH BACK Sales event will feature deals on a range of Honda vehicles including the versatile WR-V, *FIT and the recently updated Amaze.

The Honda Dream Days event gives customers the opportunity to purchase a high quality, Fuel-Efficient and reliable Honda vehicle at a reduced price. Honda encourages customers to visit their nearest Honda dealership to take advantage of these exciting CASH BACK Sales offers!

“Through Honda Dream Days Events we give new customers the opportunity of joining the Honda brand and family, says Dinesh Govender General Manager of Honda Motor Southern Africa. We understand that customers are looking for value for money in the vehicles they purchase and through Honda Dream Days Sales Events we offer potential customers the opportunity of purchasing a high-quality Honda vehicle at a reduced price!”

To participate in Honda Dream Days, members of the public with an interest in Honda are invited to visit any Honda dealership during business hours and are reminded that the Honda Dream Days CASH BACK sales event is only applicable from 14 – 31 March 2022.

*Terms and conditions apply.Offer excludes FIT Hybrid. While stocks last.

Honda’s Trendy CV-R Gets Minor Updates

By H&H Admin

The Honda CR-V has an impressive track record in South Africa, having pioneered the compact SUV sector of the local market when it was first introduced here more than 20 years ago. 

To ensure that it retains all of its lustre and to enhance its already attractively rugged appeal, designers of Honda’s CV-R have endowed it with a subtly changed exterior and interior tweaks, aimed to ensure that the mid-size SUV continues to draw attention. 

A realignment of the range sees changes to the drivetrain and specifications of the 1.5T Executive. Most notably, this model now offers front-wheel drive.

The range still consists of four models offering two different engine options and varying specification levels. 

To ensure that it retains all of its lustre and to enhance its already attractively rugged appeal, creators of the CR-V have endowed it with subtle exterior enhancements. 

EXTERIOR

The front-end of the CR-V is still dominated by a broad-barred grille which is framed by curved, slimline headlights with integrated daytime running lights. Dual air intakes with a dark meshed finish split the colour-coded bumper, while a metallic scuff plate underlines the CR-V’s undeniable SUV identity.

At the rear, the inverted LED taillight clusters are linked by a chromed garnish strip and positioned high up on a tail gate that extends all the way down to bumper level. Adding a sporty touch to the 1.5T models are twin exhaust tailpipes, housed within the rear scuff plate.

Contrasting protective cladding on the lower sections of the body panels, together with pronounced wheel arch extensions, enhance the CR-V’s rugged looks, as do new, larger 19-inch alloy wheels on the top-of-the-range 1.5T Exclusive model. 

INTERIOR

On the inside, the Honda CR-V’s interior remains largely unchanged assuring families of continued premium finishes and unparalleled space, making the cabin an altogether pleasant place to be in. 

As with the previous model, one of the key interior highlights is the full-colour TFT driver information interface, which is located in a dedicated binnacle directly ahead of the driver. The display is dominated by a graph-type rev counter, accompanied by a digital speedometer.

Depending on the model, a centrally located 5-inch or 7-inch display provides user-friendly access to the CR-V’s infotainment system. The centre stack also houses the controls for the dual-zone climate control system.

DRIVETRAIN

There are two drivetrain options for the upgraded CR-V. 

The first is Honda’s familiar 2,0-litre four-cylinder i-VTEC petrol engine. This normally aspirated unit features 113 kW of power and peak torque of 189 Nm. 

The 1 997 cc engine is linked to Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with G-Shift control logic and provides all the convenience of an automatic gearbox.  Drive is to the front wheels.

The second engine option is a 1 498 cc turbo powerplant which 140 kW of power and 240 Nm of torque.  It too is mated to a CVT gearbox. 

MODEL LINE-UP AND FEATURES

As was the case with the previous range, the upgraded Honda CR-V line-up consists of four models, with a choice of two engines and four specification levels. All derivatives feature Honda’s latest-generation Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). 

Honda CR-V 2.0 Comfort CVT

The 2.0 Comfort is the base model of the range and offers an extensive list of standard comfort, convenience and safety features. Powered by a proven 2,0-litre petrol engine with a CVT gearbox, the 2.0 Comfort has a top speed of 192 km/h, while fuel consumption is claimed to be 7,3 litres.100km on a combined cycle.

Distinguishing features include:

  • Aluminium-look front and rear scuff plates
  • Brushed aluminium roof rails
  • 17-inch alloy wheels, shod with 235/65 R17 tyres
  • Cloth upholstery and metallic accents
  • 5-inch full-colour display 
  • Four-speaker audio system, as well as Bluetooth connectivity 
  • Dual-zone climate control 
  • Rear park distance sensors 
  • Electrically operated exterior mirrors
  • Dual front and side SRS airbags
  • Curtain airbags
  • Three-point inertia reel seatbelts all round
  • Isofix child seat anchor points
  • ABS brakes with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD)
  • Agile Handling Assist (AHA
  • Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA)
  • Hill Start Assist (HAS) systems
Honda CR-V 2.0 Elegance CVT

The CR-V 2.0 Elegance is technically identical to the more affordable Comfort model in terms of drivetrain and exterior execution. However, the Elegance offers an enhanced package of interior features. 

Distinguishing features include:

  • Leather upholstery 
  • Heated front seats
  • 7-inch Display Audio interface 
  • Eight-speaker audio system as well as Bluetooth connectivity 
  • Eight-way electric adjustment (front seats)
  • Memory function for the driver’s seat
  • Front and read Park Distance Control 
  • Downwards tilting left exterior mirror (for better visibility when reversing) 
  • Leather-trimmed multifunction steering wheel 
  • Gear shift paddles for manual CVT operation
  • Auto-sensing windscreen wipers
Honda CR-V 1.5T Executive CVT

The 1.5T Executive is powered by Honda’s force-induced, 1,5-litre petrol engine, delivering 140 kW of power and 240 Nm of torque paired to a CVT gearbox as standard.

The exterior design of the 1.5T Executive shares all the key features of the 2,0-litre models, but gains 18-inch alloy wheels, shod with 235/60 R18 tyres. 

Distinguishing features include:

  • Auto-levelling full LED headlights 
  • Inverted LED daytime running lights
  • Leather upholstery
  • Digital Driver Information Interface 
  • 7-inch Display Audio infotainment system as the 2.0 Elegance
  • Start/stop button
  • Remote central locking system 
  • Keyless smart entry
Honda CR-V 1.5T Exclusive CVT

The flagship of the new Honda CR-V range is the 1.5T Exclusive. Mechanically, it is identical to the Executive model, combining the same 1,5-litre turbo engine with a CVT gearbox. However, setting it apart from its lesser siblings are new 19-inch alloy wheels and three-element LED front fog lamps.

Distinguishing features include:

  • Auto High Beam headlights
  • Leather upholstery 
  • TFT-based Digital Driver Information Interface
  • Panoramic sunroof 
  • Integrated satellite navigation system
  • Electrically operated tailgate with programmable opening height
  • Tyre pressure monitoring system
  • Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS) 
  • LanewatchTM

Honda Sensing, which comprises of:

  • Collision Mitigation Braking (CMBS) with Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
  • Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) with Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
  • Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low Speed following (LSF) 
  • Lane Keeping Assist (LKAS)
COLOURS

The colour line-up for the upgraded CR-V includes Platinum White, Lunar Silver, Modern Steel, Crystal Black and Brilliant Sporty Blue. A new addition is Coffee Cherry Red.

PRICING, WARRANTY AND SERVICE PLAN

Recommended retail pricing is as follows:

2.0L FWD Comfort CVT R556 100

2.0L FWD Elegance CVT R617 900

1.5T FWD Executive CVT R699 900

2.0L FWD Exclusive CVT R796 300 

The range is backed by a comprehensive five-year/200 000 km warranty, as well as a five-year/90 000 km service plan. Also included is a three-year AA Road Assist package. 

Service intervals are set at 15 000 km for the 2.0-litre models, and 10 000 km for the 1.5-litre turbo variants.

Updated Honda Amaze Now Available In South Africa

Honda has upped the ante with a number of changes and upgrades that will see the Amaze find further favour with local buyers. 

The updated Amaze appeals to buyers of all ages who appreciate Honda’s reputation for reliability, combined with a value-added purchase price, great fuel efficiency and low total cost of ownership.

Designed as a sedan from the ground up, the updated Amaze remains unmistakably Honda, but in a compact package that is stylish, well specced, comfortable and now better suited to the needs of a discerning market.

As before, Honda’s renowned i-VTEC engine technology ensures that the Amaze has the performance to match its looks, while delivering exceptional fuel efficiency. 

With two equipment levels – Trend and Comfort – on offer, Amaze buyers have a choice of features. High levels of standard equipment and uncompromising safety remain a priority on all models though.

DRIVETRAIN AND DYNAMICS

The new Amaze is powered by a proven four-cylinder engine. The 1 199 cc unit employs Honda’s i-VTEC intelligent valve timing management system, ensuring optimum performance and fuel efficiency.

Maximum power output of 66 kW is reached at 6 000 r/min, while the torque peak is 110 Nm at 4 800 r/min. The baseline Amaze Trend model is available with a five-speed manual gearbox only, while buyers of the Comfort model can also opt for a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

Amaze models with manual transmission achieve a combined cycle fuel consumption figure of 5,6 litres/100 km, and accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 12,3 seconds.

The Amaze CVT versions are slightly thirstier at 5,7 litres/100 km and require 13,5 seconds to accelerate from 0-100 km/h.  

All derivatives have a rated top speed of 150 km/h. 

SAFETY

All Honda Amaze models are fitted with dual front airbags, inertia reel seatbelts front and rear, and ISOFIX child seat anchors. On the active safety front, ABS brakes with electronic brake force distribution (EBD) are standard.

COLOUR PALETTE 

The range of exterior colours for the updated Amaze include Platinum White, Lunar Silver, Radiant Red and Meteoroid Grey, the latter being a new metallic colour.

CONCLUSION

In addition to competitive pricing, the exceptional efficiency of the new Amaze contributes to economical running costs – something which is becoming an increasingly important aspect of vehicle ownership. Additional peace of mind is provided by a two-year/30 000 km service plan.

PRICING, WARRANTY AND SERVICE PLAN

The new Honda Amaze recommended retail pricing is as follows:

Honda Amaze 1.2 Trend: R209 100

Honda Amaze 1.2 Comfort: R234 700

Honda Amaze 1.2 Comfort CVT: R252 800

The range is supported by a full five-year/200 000 km warranty, as well as a two-year/30 000 km service plan, and a three-year AA Roadside Assistance package. Scheduled services are at 15 000 km intervals.

Meet the Winners of Honda Quest 2021

Press Release: Honda Motor Southern Africa

Congratulations to the winners of Honda Quest 2021: Ruan Ueckermann & Neil Rieck.

The winners were announced at a victory ceremony held on November 10, 2021 at Kaleo Guest Farm.  The champions were ‘crowned’ by Yuishi Fukuda, President of Honda Motor Southern Africa.

This year’s pairs were particularly strong and the 7 teams got a taste of some of the most breathtakingly beautiful landscapes in South Africa whilst putting their riding skills to the test. 

Just 9 days before the final event, the 14 contestants were strangers; polite and formal around each other. But within a very short period of time, no one would have believed that they had just met. It wasn’t the dust and travel grime that made them gel so well; rather, it was the adventure journey that had irrevocably changed them. 

The final tally of the adventure was very close amongst the heroic group; however, Ruan and Neil’s infectious energy, ability to approach every challenge with a smile and unwavering consistency both on and off the bike saw them richly deserving of their grand prize the Honda Africa Twin motorcycles which they competed on.

Honda Quest 2021: Finalist Announcement

The Honda Quest 2021 boot camp held in the Koue Bokkeveld in the Cederberg came to conclusion on Thursday October 14th.

The 28 semi-finalists were put through their paces during an extensive 3-day bootcamp which tested them on various tasks that involved more than just riding a bike.

The selection panel had the arduous task of eliminating 14 of the 28 hopeful semi-finalists by conducting theoretical and practical tests that varied from adventure related general knowledge questionnaires to African geography quizzes. The semi-finalists were also asked to perform various practical and mechanical tasks with the added pressure of time limits per task.

The individual tasks also included the assembly of adventure essential accessories to the CRF1100 Africa Twins, one of the finest adventure motorcycles, and the bike they will be using to compete in the Honda Quest 2021 competition. Additional tasks over the 3 days included the assembly of a camp, motorcycle maintenance, tyre and tube repairs among others.

The selection panel were constantly on the lookout for individuals who demonstrated the competitive spirit and determination to complete the necessary tasks that would stand them in contention to compete in the final of Honda Quest 2021. Individual interviews were also conducted with each of the 28 semi-finalists which gave the panel insight into the behavioural responses of each semi-finalist.

The finalists (in no particular order) are:

Ellio Marcello Striglia

Hein Kumm

Peter Wilhelm Siegling

Murray Ross Campbell

Clemence Neil Rieck

David Johannes Gouws

George Hugo Minnaar

Andrew de Bruin

Hendrik Schalk Visser

Shaun Engelbrecht

Ruan Carl Ueckermann

Daniel Francois de Kock

Jaco Swiegelaar

Tom Andrew Stewart

The seven teams of two will now have the opportunity to embark on a life changing adventure from 1 – 10 November as they navigate through the challenging terrain in the Northern Cape’s Richtersveld, Namakwa Eco Trail, Tankwa Karoo and Cederberg whilst competing for the title of Honda Quest True Adventure 2021. The winning team will ride off on the very bike they will have competed on.

CAR REVIEW: Meet the WR-V, Honda’s offering to the Compact SUV segment

When I first drove the WR-V in 2020, I wasn’t convinced it could compete against its rivals, but after having it on test, I am happily eating humble pie

– Vuyi Mpofu, Founder & MD, Driving In HEELS South Africa

I have a confession: When I first drove the Honda WR-V at launch in Franschhoek, I wasn’t particularly enthralled with it.  In truth, my focus had been on the latest generation and better-known Ballade which was also unveiled on the day same.  That said, when the opportunity arose to get the WR-V, the 4thsoft-roader from the Japanese manufacturer, on a 7-day test period, I didn’t hesitate.

As I approached my Radiant Red Metallic test unit I had to admit it was a more than decent-looking compact SUV.   

Watching the light bouncing off the WR-R as it glistened under the tepid autumn sun my mind referenced the business presentation at which Honda South Africa had stated that the WR-V was built on the same platform as the proven Jazz and BR-V.  

I had the range-topping 1.2 Elegance derivative, which is well put together but, features a load of hard plastics as expected.

– VUYI MPOFU, FOUNDER & MD, DRIVING IN HEELS SOUTH AFRICA

Featuring typical Honda design features, the WR-V boasts typical Honda styling cues such as LED headlights which flank a chrome-wing grille, C-shaped taillights, and LED DTRL (daytime running lights). Smiling, it dawned on me that the Honda WR-V is a bigger, more aggressive, and robust version of the Honda Jazz dressed in gym gear, doing leg extensions.

I had the range-topping 1.2 Elegance derivative, which is well put together but, features a load of hard plastics as expected.  Equipped with a 7” touchscreen infotainment system (with 6 speakers).

As I settled into the comfortable fabric driver’s seat, I remembered that Honda manufacturers cars which, to put it gently, don’t go very fast.

– VUYI MPOFU, FOUNDER & MD, DRIVING IN HEELS SOUTH AFRICA

The infotainment system is compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and supports Bluetooth telephony as well as an app-based navigation feature.  Other creature comforts include electric windows, multifunction steering wheel, rear park sensors, auto aircon, keyless entry (with push-button start), cruise control, and reverse-view camera.  

My first drive was a visit to friends and family in Mpumalanga.  As I settled into the comfortable fabric driver’s seat, I remembered that Honda manufacturers cars which, to put it gently, don’t go very fast, and as such, I prepared my mind for an unhurried drive – but I was in for a surprise!

With 66kW available on tap, my Honda WR-V Elegance blazed a trail towards the place where the sun rises, at an unexpectedly brisk pace.  Despite being powered by a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, I occasionally found myself reaching for a non-existent 6thgear whereas the WR-V is only available in 5-speed manual transmission.

I quickly realized that the compact SUV runs out of puff on long ascending portions of a drive

– VUYI MPOFU, FOUNDER & MD, DRIVING IN HEELS SOUTH AFRICA

Currently, the WR-V is not available in CVT automatic transmission which I secretly believe Honda will have to address very soon to compete with rivals in this segment as well as accommodate those who don’t want an over-developed left calf due to driving in bumper-to-bumper traffic.

As the WR-V and I meandered up the uphill sections on the back routes from Gauteng to Mpumalanga, I quickly realized that the compact SUV runs out of puff on long ascending portions of the drive.  I didn’t like having to engage the gears so often as I did, but the more the WR-V moaned on the inclines, the more I intuitively understood that the gear ratios on the manual transmission SUV are spaced closely, meaning I had no option but to gear up and down pretty often to squeeze the most from the engine – especially on uphills and when overtaking.   

That said, the WR-V tends to get up to and maintain high speeds on straight and level roads with relative ease. 

By far, the most remarkable aspect of the Honda WR-V is its “Magic Seat”

Reaching the gravel roads leading to my final destination, the WR-V’s 173mm ground clearance, black protective cladding, and dual side skid plates came in handy as I crawled over the uneven terrain.  

Riding on 16-inch heels as standard, the compact SUV made easy work of the rocky surface highlighting just how practical the WR-V is in urban and rural settings. 

The biggest letdown for me about the Honda WR-V is its thirstiness.

– VUYI MPOFU, FOUNDER & MD, DRIVING IN HEELS SOUTH AFRICA

By far, the most remarkable aspect of the Honda WR-V is its “Magic Seat” – a system that allows the rear seats to be configured in a multitude of ways to accommodate standard and odd-shaped parcels without compromising the seating comfort of at least 1 rear seat passenger.

Speaking of rear-seat passengers, the Honda WR-V proved to have generous rear leg-room as demonstrated by the numerous vertically blessed villagers who suddenly needed rides to the nearest shops, clinic, and police station.  

To score a ride in the WR-V, one teenager asked to transport his mountain bicycle to a repair shop and I was by far the most surprised party to discover that we didn’t need to remove either wheel to fit the bicycle into the SUV.

The WR-V’s pricing could set it wheels and roof rails above its rivals.

– VUYI MPOFU, FOUNDER & MD, DRIVING IN HEELS SOUTH AFRICA

The biggest letdown for me about the Honda WR-V is its thirstiness.  At first, I chastised myself, thinking I had driven the WR-V as hard as I normally drive test cars but when my test period ended and I had sheepishly done the maths, I calculated that Honda’s claim of 6.4litres/100km was approximately 2-litres less than my 8-litres per 100km.  Upon further consideration, I realized I had had to stomp the fuel pedal much harder and more often than usual, to get the power I needed to get the compact SUV going.

From a safety point of view, the WR-V give the same level of peace of mind we expect and are accustomed to from Honda being ABS, EBD, ISOFIX anchorage points, and fog lamps.

I am excited that I got to better apply myself to Honda’s compact SUV offering than I did when it was launched.  During the test period, I realized that the WR-V competes against the Ford EcoSport, Hyundai Venue, Haval H1, Mahindra XUV300, Suzuki Breeza, and Renault Captur to mention a few of its rivals.  However, the WR-V’s pricing could set it wheels and roof rails above its rivals. It also offers the right styling and the right aftersales support to make it a major consideration for those on the market for a capable compact SUV.

PRICING

WR-V 1.2 Comfort MT                                                         R289 900

WR-V 1.2 Elegance MT                                                       R327 700

The WR-V is sold with a 5-year/200 000 km warranty, 4-year/60 000 km service plan, and 3-year AA Roadside Assistance.  Service intervals are at every 15 000kms

CAR REVIEW: Is The New Honda Ballade A Gem Or Cubic Zirconia?

I remember the original Honda Ballade featured headlights that folded down flush with the bonnet and everyone thought it the height of elegance at the time.

– MICHELLE YORK, GM SOUTH AFRICAN GUILD OF MOTORING JOURNALISTS & FREELANCER FOR DRIVING IN HEELS

I remember the original Honda Ballade from the ’80s with headlights that folded down flush with the bonnet. Everyone thought it the height of elegance and the Ballade soon became one of Honda’s most iconic and successful models. Almost 4 decades later and a name change detour via Civic that I won’t delve into, the 8thGeneration Honda Ballade is back with a 3-model line-up – Comfort, Elegance, and the range-topping RS.

The RS moniker refers to “Road Sailing” and not, as one might think, to a more powerful engine

– MICHELLE YORK, GM SOUTH AFRICAN GUILD OF MOTORING JOURNALISTS & FREELANCER FOR DRIVING IN HEELS

The all-new Ballade is an attractive sedan with a sculpted body and striking lines. The front boasts a bold grille design as well as the new slim headlight treatment shared with the larger Honda Civic. The rear lights instantly reminded me of a certain little German car that I am rather fond of. The Ballade has a slightly lower centre of gravity and is marginally larger than its predecessor, all of which translates to impressive road handling.  

I had the flagship Honda Ballade RS on test, and I simply had to slip in the word “ship” somewhere because the RS moniker refers to “Road Sailing” and not, as one might think, to a more powerful engine. While the Ballade does have a very capable suspension for our roads, the RS badge might cause a little confusion!

I took the Ballade RS on a drive to the diamond mining town of Cullinan to see if Honda had produced a real gem or cubic zirconia; bearing in mind that it enters the market amidst the likes of the Corolla Quest, VW Polo sedan, Mazda3, and Fiat Tipo.  Here’s what I discovered. 

The all-new Ballade introduces a new 1.5L DOHC engine with i-VTEC technology and a revised version of Honda’s Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). It has a good road presence and solidly grips through corners giving it a safe overall feel. The CVT is relatively quiet but should you need to unexpectedly accelerate, you’ll be met with the distinctive CVT whine, but this is to be expected. Thankfully the RS comes fitted with paddle shifts, should the automatic gearbox need a little assistance.

I thoroughly enjoyed the new Honda Ballade and was impressed by its excellent fuel consumption, an admirable sales point in a time when the cost of living is soaring

The Ballade RS is an accomplished sedan with good finishes and the usual alphabet of features like ABS, EBD, VSA, etc. There is ample legroom in the front and rear and a generous boot that could easily fit a pram or set of golf clubs.

All models are fitted with ISOFIX child seat anchors making the Ballade a suitable option for those on the market for a capable family car. The all-new Ballade also offers those looking to make the upgrade from a hatchback to a vehicle that has a little more panache than the usual suspects on the market.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the new Honda Ballade and was impressed by its excellent fuel consumption, an admirable sales point in a time when the cost of living is soaring. After my trip to Cullinan, I can confirm that the Honda Ballade is not a cubic zirconia, it’s a little diamond and diamonds are a girl’s best friend after all.

Priced from :

Ballade Comfort 1.5:     R 336 500

Ballade Elegance 1.5:    R 366 900

Ballade Elegance 1.5:    R 396 900

The Honda Ballade range comes standard with a five-year/200 000 warranty, four-year/60 000km, and three-year AA Roadside Assistance.

ABOUT MICHELLE YORK

Michelle York has been in the automotive industry for over 20 years and is the General Manager of the SA Guild of Motoring Journalists, (SAGMJ). When she isn’t test driving cars or cracking the whip at the Guild, Michelle enjoys tinkering about in the garage and is currently converting her incredibly bright yellow minivan into an incredibly bright mini camper van. She has 5 lively dogs of varying shapes and sizes – all of which are jostling to ride shotgun once the van has been completed. 

NEW ON THE TARMAC: Farewell Honda Jazz. Hello Honda FIT

Honda has unveiled the much-anticipated FIT model range, which replaces the well-known Jazz nameplate in South Africa, and Vuyi Mpofu attended the launch in Hermanus, Western Cape.  

As beloved as the Jazz has been, it faced intense challenges from competitors whose increasing offering included modern design, up-to-date technology, copious amounts of interior space, and fuel efficiency.  The Honda Jazz also carried the rather unfortunate stigma of being a “granny-mobile”, making it not-so-desirable to the younger and trendy market. 

Determined to remain in the game and do its best to disrupt the compact hatchback segment, the Honda FIT offers South African customers – new and existing – a mix of frugality, practicality, and best of all, variety. 

The first important highlight about the Honda FIT is that models aimed for Mzansi are built in Japan and not in India.

– Vuyi Mpofu, MD, Driving in heels sa

Landing at Cape Town International airport on a cold, windy, and rainy day my enthusiasm for testing the little city runner faded a little. After all, who wants to drive in such weather?

I tried to remember the safety features in the Honda Jazz and trusted those and more would save the day.

The first important highlight about the Honda FIT is that models aimed for Mzansi are built in Japan and not in India.  If you’ve ever sat in a vehicle assembled in India, you’ll know why this is very, very good news and if you haven’t, let’s just say vehicles built in India give the term “new car smell’ an unpleasantly different and new meaning; to say nothing about question marks surrounding build quality.

CVT in itself works well, but, whenever you try to squeeze more power out of it, the system responds pretty much in the same way I imagine a cat would if you tried to bathe it.

– VUYI MPOFU, MD, DRIVING IN HEELS SA

Having driven the Honda FIT Hybrid on the morning of the launch, I climbed into the FIT Executive (range-topping petrol model) after a hearty lunch. The Hybrid model had set the bar rather high and I worried that the variant Executive might not live up to the task. 

The petrol derivatives employ continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and therein lies the reason for my sadness and deep concern.  CVT in itself works well, but, whenever you try to squeeze more power out of it, the system responds pretty much in the same way I imagine a cat would if you tried to bathe it – it emits a high-pitched scream and doesn’t let up until you ease up on the accelerator and allow the car to return to a pace which it is comfortable at.  

Needless to say, this is not ideal because when I want to go, I need a car that complies – not one that protests and ultimately screeches me into defeat.

That would probably be the ‘worst’ feature about the petrol-powered Honda Fit models and accepting this begrudgingly, I set about the task of the day – driving the Honda FIT Executive model.

My best feature is the front seat heaters (available in the Executive and Hybrid models only) which came in handy during the cold, wet drive.

– VUYI MPOFU, MD, DRIVING IN HEELS SA
What It Looks Like Inside and Out

The Honda Fit range has a futuristic and contemporary design.  Styling enhancements include a sleek front face, smooth contours, a short nose, and a refined rear roof spoiler.  Premium-look rear combination lamps and light cluster design, all of which blend to complement the FIT’s clean, minimalistic exterior aesthetics.  

Furthermore, the A-pillar thickness is now just 55mm and along with the hidden windscreen wipers, this provides the driver and front-seat passenger with an unobstructed, almost panoramic field of vision. 

The clean, uncluttered design of the Honda FIT continues on the inside and Honda has included enough technological elements to bring the little city runner on par with its competitors.

The user-focused dashboard incorporates a slim instrument panel that sweeps horizontally across the cabin, enhancing the sense of cabin spaciousness. The central HMI 9-inch touchscreen (standard on Elegance and Executive grades) and 7-inch full TFT instrument cluster which is standard across the range, are simple and easy to read.

My best feature is the front seat heaters (available in the Executive and Hybrid models only) which came in handy during the cold, wet drive.  A review-view camera is fitted to all the models except for the entry-level Comfort

My concerns about driving on wet roads were decapitated once I began driving the Executive model.

VUYI MPOFU, MD, DRIVING IN HEELS SA
What’s Under It’s Pretty Little Bonnet?

There are three petrol derivatives in the Honda FIT line-up as well as a Hybrid model.  These are the entry-level Comfort, mid-level Elegance, and range-topping Executive,  All are fitted with a 1.5L DOHC petrol engine, (the same unit found in the latest Honda Ballade) that churns 90kW of power and 146Nm of torque. 

Interestingly, a manual transmission is not on offer.

All The Safety You Need

My concerns about driving on wet roads were decapitated once I began driving the Executive model because the Honda FIT range comes standard with an impressive list of safety features which include (but are not limited to), Vehicle Stability Assist, Brake Assist System, Hill Start Assist and Automatic Brake Hold. 

Passive safety comes in the form of six airbags, comprising front, side, and curtain SRS airbags.

Model Specifications & Colour Line-Up

The colour line-up for the new FIT range includes a host of new colours including Opal White (Pearl), Crystal Red (Metallic), Meteoroid Grey (Metallic), Midnight Blue (Metallic), and Rose Gold (Metallic), in addition to existing line-up colours which include Platinum White (Pearl) and Lunar silver (Metallic).

I look forward to receiving the Honda FIT on a longer test period at which time my thoughts about the city car will be more detailed.  From the launch experience, however, I believe the Honda FIT offers the South African market a fresh design, good value for money, up-to-date technology, copious amounts of interior space and legroom, and fuel efficiency.  The Honda FIT seems to be a city car for everyday use, ready to meet the needs of modern consumers.

Warranty And Service Plan

For additional peace of mind, the Honda FIT range comes standard with Honda’s five-year/200 000 warranty, as well as a four-year/60 000km Service Plan with 15 000km service intervals. Customers also have the reassurance of three-year AA Roadside Assistance. The FIT Hybrid model comes standard with an extended eight-year/200 000km warranty specifically covering the battery and related components of the Hybrid system.

Pricing:

1.5 Comfort CVT: R319,900

1.5 Elegance CVT: R359,900

1.5 Executive CVT: R389,900

1.5 e-CVT Hybrid: R469,900 (only available from October 2021)

Pricing includes a five-year/200,000km warranty and a four-year/60,000km service plan. 

Why I learnt how to ride a motorcycle (& why other women should consider it too)

Our Editor, Vuyi Mpofu shares her reasons for learning how to ride a motorcycle, courtesy of Honda Motorcycles South Africa.

 

After years of driving motorcars, I decided to earnestly peruse my curiosity about riding motorcycles.  I had attended a couple of beginner’s motorbike riding lessons in the past but had never actually followed through with biking on my own.  All that changed in 2019 when I wrote a list of the things I had, in previous years, promised myself I would do but had let fall by the wayside.

Women on the other hand are generally raised to be demure and delicate – characteristics which obviously don’t quite play out well in relation to straddling a motorcycle.

– Vuyi Mpofu, Editor – heels & horsepower magazine

I went about obtaining my learner’s license, but didn’t tell anyone, least of all my 75-year-old mother for obvious reasons; the culture of motorcycling doesn’t harmonize well with the traditional expectations of who I am preordained to be and what I am predestined to do with my life as a Black Woman.  

Sadly motorbiking is still considered as the domain of tough, fearless and in some instances, rebellious men – which is not necessarily who male bikers are. Women on the other hand are generally raised to be demure and delicate, characteristics which obviously don’t quite play out well in relation to straddling a motorcycle.  

My venturing into motorcycles had more to do with silencing a loud voice within me that demanded to know why I was trying to fit into a societal cage.  By allowing myself to explore the world of 2-wheelers I not only fulfilled an life-long dream but also discovered many reasons to remain in the saddle.  Here are a few:

I ride a Honda NC750x DCT which I’ve christened “The Blue Wildebeest” because it is short, stocky, powerful and well – blue!

– vuyi mpofu, editor – heels & horsepower magazine

REASON #1:  FREEDOM

BENEFIT: I discovered that the ‘she-must-be-rebellious’ hype about being a female motor biker worked to my advantage.  Rather than explain myself to those people who were determined to misunderstand my rational, I proudly plastered the proverbial ‘rebel’ sticker on my forehead and used it as an excuse to push self-imposed cultural & societal limitations about who I am (or not) as a Black Woman on a motorcycle.  Thanks to the world viewing me differently I have embraced the courage to become more of the woman I have always been inside, but have never been encouraged to express.

REASON #2:          ADVENTURE

BENEFIT:                I ride a Honda NC750x DCT which I’ve christened “Blue Wildebeest” because it is short, stocky, powerful and well – blue!  It is the vehicular equivalent of a soft off-road SUV and allows me to go off the beaten track to explore places I would otherwise need a bakkie to get to.  Being light on fuel, (approx. 350km out of its 14litre tank) allows me to go on adventures without the burden of hefty fuel prices.  Plus, it has a handy luggage compartment which can store up to about 5kg of clothes, cosmetics and gadgets for my trips.

When I ride, I can feel the wind all around me as Blue Wildebeest whistles along the road.

– vuyi mpofu, editor – heels & horsepower magazine

REASON #3:      INDEPENDENCE      

BENEFIT:            Face it ladies, there are times you would like to just leave everyone and everything behind and be completely on your own.  Nothing gives you more cost-effective independence than being able to strap on your helmet, crank up the engine and ride away to collect your thoughts.  When I ride, I can feel the wind all around me as Blue Wildebeest whistles along the road. I am more in touch with nature than when I am in a car.  When you ride (even when riding in a group) you are completely in the moment, without distractions from a phones, radio or talkative passengers.  

REASON #4:          COMMUNITY

BENEFIT:                Speaking of group rides, being on a motorcycle has opened my world to people of all walks of life and I have formed friendships with folk I may not ordinarily have met had I not on a motorbike.  I have developed a network of ‘biker-gals’ across the continent and it has been interesting to share and learn from more experienced riders who relate to my ‘newbie’ biker experiences.  For instance, helmet hair is a real problem (that’s when your hair just flattens against your head or spikes up in all different directions when you take you helmet off) as is finding protective gear that comfortably fits my build. 

The saying “there is nothing to fear except fear itself” is absolutely true. 

– vuyi mpofu, editor- heels & horsepower magazine

REASON #5:          CONQUERING MY FEARS

BENEFIT:                The saying “there is nothing to fear except fear itself” is absolutely true. I have discovered that what I had perceived as reasons not to ride (e.g., traffic, the weather, speed etc.) are what makes biking exhilarating.  Unfortunately, motorists tend to drive as if bikers are invisible beings, however the sun, wind and rain all make for  memorable experiences.  As for speed, well, I ride as fast or as slowly as I feel comfortable and keep a strong sense of self-preservation high on my list of priorities. 

Motorcycling has become a large part of my self-love process and I wouldn’t hang up my riding boots for anything in the world.  I would strongly encourage women to give biking a try, bearing in mind that you can’t write something off until you’ve determined what it is about. Who knows, the biking bug might bite you and open you up to a life you never knew existed. 

Road Trip! Taking the long route to Coffee Bay, Eastern Cape

There is a straight-forward way to get from Johannesburg to the iconic natural wonder which is Hole-In-The-Wall in the Wild Coast; a route that follows the N3 to Howick, proceeds to Mthatha along the R612 before culminating in Coffee Bay.  

That, however, was not the route my friends and I took when we set out on our annual Ubuntu Adventure / Pride of Africa Ride. Instead, driving my sponsored Christmas wheels from Isuzu SA and riding sponsored bikes from Honda SA we travelled the long way round;  first to Ladybrand (near Maseru), then to East London before finally heading for Coffee Bay. With some of our party travelling in the comfy 7-seater mu-X and the others on Honda’s iconic Africa Twin 1000cc adventure motorcycles our trip was peppered with loads of humour, challenging weather conditions and numerous rest stops.

Day 1: Farewell Jozi!

Taking command of the impressive Isuzu mu-X, I had fairly heavy-duty expectations of Isuzu’s first-ever SUV.  The vehicle would have to prove itself on several fronts, namely fuel efficiency over our 2600km trip.  It would also be required to effortlessly transverse roads of varying degrees of maintenance ranging from the smooth surfaces of national highways to hair-raising strips of tar dominated by pot-holes, each the size of an average two-bedroom apartment; lug my brand new (sponsored) 230kg Honda NC750X motorcycle; have enough space to comfortably seat 3 adults; securely tow luggage for 4 women and a man, (whose ‘tog bag’ could never really count as luggage) as well as the mandatory ‘above-average’ size, cooler-box.   

My familiarity with the interior properties and storage capabilities of the mu-X was not in question thanks to the partnership between Isuzu South Africa and the Gals Garage Driving Experiences; so it was easy to tick off its ability to cater for our luggage, but had to fold the 3rd-row of seats down in order to do so.  

I had never towed anything as heavy as a motorcycle before hence my concerns relating to the weight of the bike, fuel efficacy, and vehicle performance were a the fore of my mind. Fortunately, these were quickly muted. For a start, the weight of the bike (a.k.a “Blue Wildebeest”) might as well have been a feather thanks to the mu-X’s 3-tonne towing capability and the Isuzu’s trusted 3.0-litre, 130kW, turbodiesel engine.  

I had driven from Johannesburg to East London countless times before and was surprised that the fuel consumption on this trip averaged what it usually was, with only a need to replenish the 65-litre fuel tank twice.

Stopping every 2-hours to stretch our legs and replenish ourselves and the machines, our rest stops included Bethlehem for a hearty breakfast in Bethlehem, Ladybrand for a comical photoshoot, and Queenstown for ice-cream before overnighting at our family home in East London.

Day 2: eMdansane (East London) to Coffee Bay

After breakfast and a lengthy farewell ceremony which included prayers travelling mercies, we  made our way to Drifters Raceway Theme Park, an outdoor adventure and amusement park in Cambridge Hall.  Our intention had been to have fun testing our quad-biking skills along the narrow, twisty inclines of the track; but what was meant to be an hour’s stop over culminated in lunch on the wooden deck over-looking the plush greenery of the Park’s surroundings.  

Hunger pangs subdued, we began the 4-hour journey to Coffee Bay, which proved to be more eventful than anyone could have anticipated.  At this point I had unleashed the Blue Wildebeest from the shackles of the trailer and handed the mu-X key’s to one of our party.  

Commanding my bike, I did my best to keep up with my more experienced friends on their Africa Twin motorcycles and the only reason we rode on par was because the road conditions compelled them to stay at my pace. The three of us dodged, bobbed and negotiated our way around potholes, speeding motorists, crazy bus drivers, oblivious pedestrians and unperturbed livestock leisurely sauntering across the roads. At one point I caught a glimpse of the mu-X dancing its way through the same obstacles and imagined that its entire braking system – ABS with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution) and EBA (Emergency Brake Assist) – had been rudely awakened to active duty.  

Bringing my focus back to my immediate need for self-preservation, I quickly re-acquainted myself with the Honda’s traction control settings and responsive front and rear brakes.  Perched 1.35 metres above the tar and moving at 120km/hr whenever conditions permitted, the ever-changing nature of the road provided me with an opportunity to practise everything Morag Campbell had taught me during our biking lessons.  At times, the fact that the world sharply fell away beyond the metal incentivised me to slow down and re-position myself within the lane, and at other times, the twists, long curves and hair-pin bends reminded me to distribute my weight appropriately.  

I can best describe the road directly to Coffee Bay as uncompromisingly hostile for drivers and as an extreme sport for bikers. It was along this stretch of road that the agility of the mu-X and Honda bikes were severely tested.  Screaming gusts of wind howled around mu-X, and threatened to tear us off the bikes seats, whilst on ground level, all bikers and the mu-X driver discovered pothole avoidance skills of MBA-level! As daylight kissed us farewell, the Bi-LED projector headlights of the mu-X came to our aid, to illuminate the bits of tar between the potholes.  

6-hours after leaving East London, battered, tired and without a trace of humour, we arrived at Eagle’s Nest Backpackers Lodge. We each claimed the first bed we saw and awoke the following morning to witness the sun  shimmering over the Indian ocean. The Lodge’s wooden patio provided a worthy setting for our scrumptious breakfast.  Our bottoms befittingly numb and perhaps because the weather was a little sour not one of us gave the motorcycles a sideward glance as we set off for a spot of sight-seeing, fresh air and local ‘jewellery shopping’ from the hard-negotiating mamas at the beach.

Day 3 & 4: Hole-in-the-Wall, Eagle’s Nest Accommodation

Still smarting from the ride, neither the Isuzu mu-X nor the motorcycles received any attention from any of us until the late afternoon when we made our way to Hole-in-the-Wall, a mere 10km drive away. Unfortunately we arrived as the tide was coming in and only had enough time to pop a bottle of bubbly to celebrate the milestones of 2019.  The walk from the parking area to the actual sight is magnificent and dogs are permitted, however it is marred by local boys insistent on being guides.  

Day 5: Jozi Bound

We arose in the hopes of making up time along the hazardous road we had to use to get back onto the N2.  This time though, taxi drivers presented more threat to life than the enormous potholes and we had to pull over twice to give way to fast moving traffic which seemed to glide over the gaping potholes.

Re-fuelling in Mthatha allowed for a collective drop in heart-rates, before embarking on the 5-hour ride and drive towards Howick Falls in Kwa-Zulu Natal.  Rest stops included scenic views, garages and food stalls at which we bought the freshest breads, fruit juices, and creative ornaments almost as proof of our having been there.  The actual Falls were impressive albeit affected by the drought and I could hardly believe I had never been there in spite of my countless drives to Durban.  

If I could have conjured up a helicopter to transport me back home from that point I would have been the happiest little novice biker on the planet, but in lieu of a magic wand I opted to fasten the Honda onto the trailer and snooze in the comfort of the passenger’s seat back to the City of Gold. With fellow adventurer Songo Didiza confidently at the wheel, my last thoughts before drifting of into lala-land was that the more experienced bikers were barely aware of the mu-X’s existence and we next caught up to them in Harrismith. 

Our epic, annual Ubuntu Adventure end over coffee in the lounge right where it had begun a few days earlier.  It had been long and challenging but most rewarding. The Isuzu mu-X proved that it is the best long-haul partner to travel providing superior safety, unparalleled comfort, adequate space, and value-for-fuel-money. Similarly, my Honda NC750XD upheld it’s premium position as being one of the best motorcycles for learner bikers thanks to its features and rider-ease.