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New On The Tarmac: The all-new Hyundai Tucson is here!

vuyi on March 17, 2022

By H&H Admin

Hyundai’s all-new, fourth-generation Tucson SUV has arrived in the local market.

Hyundai’s all-new, fourth-generation Tucson SUV has arrived in the local market with a revolutionary and ambitious new look that follows the company’s “Sensuous Sportiness” design identity, and larger dimensions to offer a spacious, luxurious interior and a superior drive.

Since its first launch 16 years ago, the Tucson has become Hyundai’s best-selling SUV with 7 million sales globally. In South Africa, the 1st-generation Tucson was one of the models that placed the Hyundai brand squarely on the map. Its popularity continued, because 15 346 units of the previous, 3rd-generation Tucson were sold locally.

Design

The all-new Tucson features a bigger and wider body than its predecessor and has a muscular stance combined with sharp angles and dynamic proportions. It is the first Hyundai SUV to be developed according to the company’s “Sensuous Sportiness” design identity.

The most prominent highlight is the vehicle’s front grille, where Parametric Hidden Lights provide a strong first impression. When the lights are off, the front of the vehicle appears covered in dark, geometric patterns, with no distinction between the signature LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs), which are seamlessly integrated into the grille.

Thanks to new half-mirror lighting technology, when the DRLs are switched on, the dark chrome appearance of the grille transforms into jewel-like shapes, bringing an eye-catching element to an otherwise sleek appearance.

To the rear, wide tail lamps with parametric hidden light details continue the design theme. The new Tucson’s rear bumper integrates parametric pattern detail with a three-dimensional effect, coupled with a sporty trim. It is the first Hyundai model to apply a hidden rear wiper, which sits under the spoiler.

Inside, a new Audiovisual Navigation (AVN) touch screen fills the centre of the vehicle. Hyundai’s designers dispensed with physical knobs and buttons, so all AVN, heat, ventilation and air conditioning functions are controlled via touch, making it the first Hyundai model to feature a full touchscreen console. 

The Premium derivative features a cloth seat covering, while the Executive and Elite variants have artificial leather seats.

Customers can choose from seven exterior colours, Shimmering Silver, Silky Bronze, Phantom Black, White Cream, Crimson Red and Deep Sea.

Comfort and convenience

The all-new Tucson is equipped with a range of comfort features, including Multi-Air Mode, three-zone automatic climate control and heated front seats, and ventilated front seats for the Executive and Elite derivatives.  Other features include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a premium sound system, a wireless charging pad in the centre console, and front and rear USB ports.

The Elite variants are equipped with a panoramic glass sun roof.

Safety

The new Tucson is fitted with a six-airbag system: front and side airbags for the driver and front passenger, and curtain airbags which also offers protection for rear occupants. The outer seats on the rear bench have ISOFIX latching points for fitment of child protection seats.

The latest Tucson is also equipped with the latest Hyundai SmartSense active safety and driving assistance features which include:

In the Executive derivative:

  • Blind-spot Collision Warning (BCW)
  • Rear Cross-traffic Alert (RCA)

In the Elite derivatives:

  • Blind-spot Collision Avoidance Assist (BCA)
  • Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA)
  • Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)
  • Lane Follow Assist (LFA)
  • Smart Cruise Control (SCC)
  • Rear Cross-traffic Collision Assist (RCCA)
  • Rear Cross-traffic Alert (RCA)
  • Fatigue Detection/Driver Attention Warning (DAW)
  • High Beam Assist (HBA)

Powertrains

Two 4-cylinder engines – a naturally aspirated 2-litre petrol and a 2-litre turbodiesel – are used as powerplants for the new Tucson in South Africa.

The Smartstream G 2.0 MPI petrol engine, linked to 6-speed automatic transmission, does duty in the Premium, Executive and one of the Elite variants, while the Smartstream D 2.0 turbocharged diesel engine, coupled with an 8-speed transmission, is used in the other Elite derivative.

The 2-litre petrol engine delivers 115 kW peak power at 6 200 r/min and 192 Nm peak torque at 4 500 r/min. The turbodiesel boasts 137 kW peak power at 4 000 r/min and 416 Nm maximum torque between 2 000 and 2750 r/min.

All four variants feature four drive modes – Eco, Smart, Normal and Sport.

The Smart driving mode offers a blend of economical driving, switching to Sport mode when the system senses the driver’s urgency.

Pricing

The suggested retail prices of the variants in the new Tucson range are: 

Tucson 2.0 NU Premium ATR 519 900
Tucson 2.0 NU Executive ATR 569 900
Tucson 2.0 NU Elite ATR 634 900
Tucson R2.0 Elite Turbodiesel ATR 699 900

All new Hyundai Tucsons are sold with a 7-year/200 000 km manufacturer’s warranty, a 6-year/90 000 km service plan and roadside assistance for 7 years or 150 000 km.

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.

Lexus breaks cover on all-new flagship SUV, the LX

vuyi on October 19, 2021

Lexus has unveiled the second model of the next generation of Lexus at the world premiere of the new LX in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

Since its launch in 1996, the LX has been well received as Lexus’ flagship SUV due to its high-quality, ride comfort, and driving performance that can withstand all kinds of roads around the world. This has been achieved by refining the founding concepts of the LX: “reliability”, “durability”, and “rough-road driving performance”.

A taste of what to expect in the new LX

The new LX will be available with a high-output, high-torque 3.5-liter V6 twin-turbo petrol engine and a powerful 3.3-litre V6 diesel twin-turbo engine.

Electronically controlled brakes (ECB) and an electric power steering system (EPS) are also adopted to ensure customers will be able to enjoy Lexus-unique driving performance to the fullest, both on-road and off-road. These innovations, plus the adoption of two new available powertrains, will contribute to improved environmental performance, reducing annual CO2 emissions when the vehicle is in use. The reduction in emissions equates to approximately 20 percent on a global cumulative basis, compared to the previous mode.

The instrument panel features Lexus’ first dual display with a 12.3-inch upper screen and 7-inch lower screen; and as a world first, the LX features a Back Underfloor View functionality, which displays the area beneath the rear part of the vehicle.

The new LX is more personalised, with the newly added VIP grade, which is specially designed with four independent seats for elegant and safe travel on all kinds of roads.

New 22-inch forged alloy wheels employ the high contrast of black and machined brilliance to emphasise that they are the largest ever offered by Lexus.

We will share local spec packages and pricing when it becomes available to us.

Kia pulls the cover off the all-new Sportage, the ultimate urban SUV

vuyi on July 14, 2021

The fifth-generation Kia Sportage has been carefully crafted from the ground up and features premium safety features to make it the ultimate family SUV.

The all-new Sportage symbolises the pioneering DNA of the Kia brand. The past success of the Sportage is deeply rooted in a mindset of constant reinvention. Under the new Kia brand, a fifth generation Sportage once again brings an innovation that elevates the brand to the next level. 

Advanced powertrains – the heart of all-new Sportage

The all-new Sportage will be launched with a comprehensive range of powerful, responsive and efficient powertrains, including the very latest-generation clean gasoline and diesel IC engine technology.

A high-tech 1.6-litre TGDI powertrain will be offered in the all-new Sportage line-up, generating 132 kW and 265 Nm of torque.  

The 1.6-liter TGDI engine is mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (7DCT), while a 6-speed manual transmission is also available. 

Also included in the launch line-up is a new and highly efficient R2.0-liter diesel engine featuring an advanced variable geometry turbocharger that helps it to develop 137 kW and 416 Nm of torque.

The 2.0 four-cylinder unit has been designed in response to tightening emissions regulations and features an array of sophisticated technologies to drive down emissions output and enhance real-world fuel efficiency. The new R2.0-liter diesel engine comes with an extensively re-engineered 8-speed automatic transmission.

Leading the way in safety

With safety being a top priority during development, the fifth-generation all-new Sportage is one of the safest vehicles in its class; safety restraint and structure system applications, including driver airbag, passenger airbag, side curtain airbags and low-side airbags. 

The all-new Sportage feature Kia’s acclaimed Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) technology helps the Sportage to avoid potential hazards.  This includes:

  1. Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA),which helps avoid collisions with objects in front of the vehicle while driving.
  2. Highway Driving Assist (HDA),which helps maintain a set distance and speed from the vehicle ahead when driving on a highway, while also helping centre the all-new Sportage in its lane. 
  3. Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control (NSCC),which helps drive the all-new Sportage at a safe speed on the highway using real-time navigation data.
  4. Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA),which provides a warning to the driver when operating the turning signal to change lanes, should there be a risk of collision with a rearside vehicle.
  5. Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA),which helps the driver to remotely park or exit a parking spot from outside the vehicle

Due for global market launch later this year, more information on the all-new Sportage will be made available in due course. 

Here’s What you Need To Know About The New Land Rover Discovery

vuyi on June 30, 2021

Land Rover has announced the South African debut of the new Discovery. 

Land Rover has announced the South African debut of the new Discovery. The versatile family SUV features an enhanced interior and exterior, and is now smarter and better connected with cutting edge technologies.

Captivating New Looks

The new Discovery delivers a bold exterior evolution with new signature LED headlights and a daytime running light signature set lower into the units.  Animated sweeping front and rear indicators now provide heightened visual sophistication while body-colour front fender vents accentuate the premium SUV’s familiar waistline. 

A revised front bumper now features a wider body-coloured graphic and at the rear, a new Gloss Black panel with the trademark Discovery script is positioned between the tail lights. 

 
New R-Dynamic Model

A new R-Dynamic model brings a more assertive character with a series of unique design elements, including Gloss Black and Shadow Atlas exterior accents on the outside and two-tone leather and contrast seat stitching on the inside. 

R-Dynamic models include Premium LED headlights which produce a colour of light that is closer to daylight, helping drivers distinguish objects more easily and help to reduce driver fatigue. Driving at night or in poor visibility is made easier by Auto High Beam Assist (AHBA) which automatically switches on and headlights and dip for oncoming traffic.

 
Creature Comforts
  1. An optional Hands-free Gesture Tailgate can detect the wave of a foot beneath the rear bumper to open the boot while the Powered Inner Tailgate restrains loose items and doubles as a handy bench. 
  2. Intelligent Seat Fold technology allows customers to effortlessly configure the seating layout using the central touchscreen, while Remote app technology lets customers keep tabs on the fuel status and location of their vehicle and even unlock and lock the doors.
  3. Land Rover’s new second-generation Activity Key is also available and features touchscreen controls, a digital watch and can lock, unlock and start the vehicle as an addition to the conventional fob.
  4. ClearSight Ground View technology, provides drivers with a view of the obscured ground directly beneath the front of the vehicle using the central touchscreen and a combination of forward-facing cameras. The clever feature is the realisation of Land Rover’s futuristic transparent bonnet concept and supports the driver when negotiating steep off-road inclines or hidden urban obstacles.
 
Powertrains and Models

Two new 3.0-litre straight-six Ingenium engines, both petrol and diesel, are introduced with the petrol version featuring 48V Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle (MHEV) technology for enhanced efficiency, performance and smoothness.   This powerful P360 powertrain offers outputs of 265kW and 500Nm, and provides a 0-100km/h time of 6.7 seconds. 

The new D300 six-cylinder Ingenium diesel features lightweight aluminium construction and replaces the previous SD4 and SDV6 diesels. With hefty outputs of 221kW and 650Nm, the D300 can accelerate to 100km/h in 6.8 seconds

The new Discovery is now available in South Africa 

 
Prices:

Discovery D300 S                              R1,452,700

Discovery D300 SE R-Dynamic        R1,561,200

Discovery D300 HSE R-Dynamic     R1,675,900

Discovery P360 S                                 R1,487,600

Discovery P360 SE R-Dynamic         R1,596,100

Discovery P360 HSE R-Dynamic      R1,710,900

* Prices include VAT but exclude CO2 tax

NEW ON THE TARMAC: Meet the all-new Mitsubishi Xpander; a new breed of lifestyle-oriented MPV

vuyi on June 28, 2021

Mitsubishi’s all-new seven-seater Xpander is set to take the highly competitive South African market by storm.

Combining the traditional versatility and practicality of a multipurpose vehicle (MPV) with the rugged and sporty looks of a sport-utility vehicle (SUV), Mitsubishi’s all-new seven-seater Xpander is set to take the highly competitive South African market by storm.

“As the name suggests, the much anticipated Xpander is all about broadening one’s horizons, whether that be in terms of lifestyle choices, or family dynamics,” explains Nic Campbell, General Manager of Mitsubishi Motors South Africa (MMSA). “With the introduction of this very exciting addition to our line-up, we hope to strengthen our positions in both the MPV and compact SUV segments of the local market.”

The interior of the new Xpander might be all MPV, but the exterior screams SUV, so it’s equally well suited to everyday commuting, family road trips, and leisure activities. In addition, its stylish ruggedness and practicality mean you can take on a variety of terrains in confidence, without having to compromise on comfort.

There are two models in the local line-up. Both feature a 1.5-litre engine and the main difference between the two is the use of either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission.

Exterior – a striking first impression

With sporty alloy wheels – 15-inch on the manual model and 16-inch of the automatic derivative – and wide flared fenders, the Xpander portrays toughness and power from the first glance. Crystal clear headlights, daytime running lights, and L-illuminated LED taillights that extend onto the tailgate add to the overall look.

The Xpander’s higher ground clearance of 205 mm is another feature that is immediately noticeable and emphasizes its sporty, but practical character.

Interior – ‘Omotenashi’ in every detail

Mitsubishi strongly believes in the principle of ‘Omotenashi’ – a Japanese word that captures the way in which Japanese hosts pay attention to detail and anticipate the needs of their guests. This approach is evident in the cabin of the all-new Xpander, which provides ample space for up to seven adults to travel in comfort and style.

The flexible seating can be configured to suit a variety of needs, ranging from carrying passengers and luggage to transporting lifestyle-focused items. The second-and third-row seats have a 60/40 split, while the seats of the third row can be folded completely flat and stowed to create additional space in the cargo area. The latter also features a floor box with a lid for the safe storage of smaller items.

Creature comforts – features to make your passengers comfy

Occupant comfort is further enhanced through full automatic air-conditioning with a manual rear overhead cooler, electric windows all round, USB port in the front, 120 Watt power sockets to supply every row of seating, and clever storage compartments under the seats to ensure that personal items are out of the way but within easy reach.

Driver comfort is ensured through a tilt and telescopic multifunction steering wheel that features Bluetooth voice control for hands-free communication and a multi-information display. The rear-view camera has a high resolution that delivers optimal visibility and a wide field of vision. 

The all-new Xpander is powered by a 1.5-litre DOHC 16-valve aluminium block engine. This spirited powerplant features Mitsubishi’s Intelligent Innovative Valve Timing Lift Electronic Control (MIVEC) system and ECI multipoint fuel injection and pushes out 77 kW at 6 000 r/min, with 141 Nm of peak torque on tap at 4 000 r/min. 

With a fuel tank of 45 litres, the average fuel consumption in a combined cycle is 6.9 litres/100 km for the manual model and 7.0 litres/100 km for the automatic derivative.

Safety – technology where it’s needed most

Befitting its status as a people carrier, the all-new Xpander features a range of innovative safety features as standard. Designed to protect not only the driver and passengers but other road users as well, these include airbags for the driver and front passenger, seatbelt pre-tensioners with force limiters, an anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), as well as an impact-absorbing structure at the front-end of the vehicle. Additional safety for young occupants is provided through ISOFIX child seat anchors.

The Xpander also benefits from coming-home and welcome lights which enhance its overall safety, security, and practicality.

Warranty and service – added peace of mind

The new Mitsubishi Xpander is covered by a three-year/100 000 km manufacturer’s warranty and a two-year/30 000 km service plan. The price also includes five-year/unlimited mileage roadside assistance. Service intervals are set at 15 000 km/1 Year whichever comes first.

Pricing

Xpander 1.5L M/T: R299 995

Xpander 1.5L A/T: R319 995

 

Toyota Land Cruiser 300 – World Premiere

vuyi on June 2, 2021

One of the most anticipated new vehicles of 2021, the Land Cruiser 300, will break cover on the 9th of June, 2021. Following months of rumours, speculation and spy-shots, Toyota’s all-new flagship SUV will officially be showcased during a ‘live event’ press conference. 

The Land Cruiser 300 serves as the pinnacle in Toyota’s Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) line-up, and represents the latest in powertrain development and off-road technologies. It also signifies the largest member of the Land Cruiser family (alongside the utility-focused 70-series and ‘mid-size’ Prado stablemates).

The World Premiere will share more detail on the development concept, design, new engine options and tech features.

We’ll share all the details soon.

New on the Tarmac: Meet the new Subaru Forester models

vuyi on March 17, 2021

Subaru Southern Africa presents the MY2021 Subaru Forester with more power, new derivatives as well as more tech and practicality.  

It’s been 24 years since the first Subaru Forester defined what the world now refers to as the modern day SUV. It was a significant moment in the brand’s illustrious history, opening up a chapter that would see the Forester become the best-selling model in the company’s line-up. 

The new 2021 line-up welcomes the addition of 2 new flagship variants. Starting with the new Subaru Forester 2.5i Sport ES CVT, which is an entirely new derivative that brings a refreshing and sporty design to the model line-up. Designed for those seeking a car with practicality and sporty aesthetics, the Forester Sport exudes power and athleticism.  

Exterior design

From the front, key highlights are the modern ‘Hawkeye’ LED headlamps, a large grille, fog lamps and an underguard treatment for added protection during off road excursions. The roof rails have also been redesigned, now featuring loopholes on the higher spec models, for easier use of ropes and straps when tying down cargo. 

The introduction of the 2.5-litre models and the Sport model to the line-up gives our customers more options and a more personalised experience

 Nteo Nkoli, Marketing Lead for Subaru SA

Power & Performance

The 2.5-litre engine delivers 136kW of power, with maximum torque at 239Nm.  Despite the increase in power and performance, the 2.5-litre remains as efficient as the 2.0-litre model, delivering impressive fuel consumption figures of 7.6l/100km on the combined cycle. CO2 emissions are 193g/km. 

 

“The introduction of the 2.5-litre models and the Sport model to the line-up is so important for us as a brand, because it gives our customers more options and a more personalised experience,” says Nteo Nkoli, Marketing Lead for Subaru SA. “These long-awaited models are what many of our customers have been asking for, models that suit a particular lifestyle.” 

This Forester has scored 5-star safety ratings across all global ratings agencies. 

2021 Line-Up

Subaru Forester 2.0i-CVT                                                    R486 000

Subaru Forester 2.0i-S ES CVT                                           R564 000

Subaru Forester 2.5i Sport ES CVT                                     R599 000

Subaru Forester 2.5i-S ES CVT                                           R629 000

Each Subaru Forester model is sold with a 3yr/75 000km Maintenance Plan as well as the 5yr/150 000km Warranty. 

Jaguar I-PACE wins 2020 AutoTrader South African Car of the Year

vuyi on July 8, 2020

The Jaguar I-PACE EV400 AWD SE is the 2020 AutoTrader South African Car of the Year!

This is the first time that the competition has been won by a Jaguar and also the first win by an electric car.

The accolade is the latest in a long line of victories for the all-electric I-PACE. It won the 2019 World Car of the Year, World Car Design of the Year and World Green Car awards (the I-PACE was the first model ever to win three World Car titles in the 15-year history of the awards). It also claimed the European Car of Year title last year.

The Mercedes-Benz GLE400d 4Matic was placed second while the Toyota GR Supra 3.0T came third.

The win by a Jaguar and an electric car were two firsts for the contest, which is organised by the South African Guild of Motoring Journalists. Given the lockdown, the winner of the 2020 AutoTrader South African Car of the Year was announced during a virtual awards ceremony that was streamed live – this was another first for the AutoTrader South African Car of the Year.
  • Performance Car: Toyota GR Supra 3.0T
  • Performance Car: Toyota GR Supra 3.0T
There are a number of category winners in the 2020 AutoTrader South African Car of the Year, and these winners were announced as well.

Watch the 2020 Auto Trader South African Car of the Year Announcement

The winner in the Urban Category was the Hyundai Atos 1.1 Motion. This category covers compact budget-friendly passenger vehicles that are ideal for in-town driving. Buyers of these cars typically rate practicality over luxury and performance.

The next category – Family – is especially popular. It consists of mid-size sedans. Buyers of these vehicles expect quality, practicality and comfort –with an element of advanced handling dynamics thrown into the equation. The winner in this category was the Toyota Corolla Hatch 1.2T XR CVT.

  • URBAN CATEGORY WINNER: HYUNDAI ATOS 1.1 MOTION
  • URBAN CATEGORY WINNER: HYUNDAI ATOS 1.1 MOTION
  • Family: Toyota Corolla Hatch 1.2T XR CVT

The third category – Leisure – was won by the Volkswagen T-Cross 1.0 TSI Comfortline 85kW DSG. This category covers sports utility vehicles (SUVs) and multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs). Owners of these SUVs and MPVs enjoy the freedom of driving both on and off-road. This – combined a high seating position and flexible cargo space – makes this a popular category amongst the buying public.

  • Leisure: Volkswagen T-Cross 1.0 TSI Comfortline 85kW DSG

The Lifestyle Utility Vehicles Category was won by the Ford Ranger Raptor. These vehicles typically offer supreme 4×4 ability and can be either an SUV or a single or double-cab bakkie.

The highly contested Premium Car Category was won by the overall winner, namely the Jaguar I-PACE EV400 AWD SE. Buyers of these prestigious mid to large vehicles want powerful engines, luxury features and high-end trim options.

The Premium SUV Category caters for vehicles that offer a combination of versatility, comfort, style and performance both on- and off the road. Boasting genuine 4×4 ability without low range, these vehicles are luxurious, spacious and refined. This category was won by the Mercedes-Benz GLE400d 4Matic.

The final category – sport/performance – was won by the Toyota GR Supra 3.0T. Whether it’s a sportier flagship of an existing passenger range or a pure stand-alone model, vehicles in this category have one common trait: superior performance. Accordingly, thoroughbred sports cars are included in this category.

The South African Car of the Year trophy, which has been awarded since 1986, is the country’s most highly respected and sought-after motoring accolade. While the competition has evolved over the years (categories were only introduced recently), one thing has remained true to the contest; it celebrates and rewards automotive excellence. Both the category and overall winners are considered to be benchmarks within their categories. The 2020 competition was no exception, with many of the winners having already achieved international acclaim.