Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) has become the first local automotive manufacturer to win Cars.co.za’s prestigious Brand of the Year for a record third time.
Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) has become the first local automotive manufacturer to win Cars.co.za’s prestigious Brand of the Year for a record third time. TSAM had previously clinched the inaugural Brand of the Year category in 2016, followed by another win in 2019. To crown it all, this year Toyota also walked away with five product category wins for Hilux, Fortuner, RAV4, C-HR and Starlet.
We are delighted to accept the #CarsAwards Brand of the Year trophy as well as the five others for product categories.
– Leon Theron, TSAM, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing
Unlike product categories, which are decided by a combination of judges’ scores and consumer data, the #CarsAwards Brand of the Year accolade is determined entirely by market data and the findings of the survey – including, but not limited to, the brands’ respective sales and after-sales service ratings.
Commenting on Toyota’s success TSAM’s Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing Leon Theron says: “We are delighted to accept the #CarsAwards Brand of the Year trophy as well as the five others for product categories. As a company that is entirely committed to providing best-in-class solutions for our customers, we are truly pleased that the market we are serving is acknowledging our efforts. We therefore extend our gratitude to our customers, without whom, no accolade would be possible.”
Arguably one of South Africa’s most premier automotive awards programmes, the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards (powered by WesBank), have become a highlight on the automotive calendar since the inaugural event in 2016. This year’s event, also marking the sixth instalment, could not be staged live due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. It was however broadcast on DStv’s Motorsport HD Channel 215
The new Toyota Corolla Cross, to be built at Toyota’s Prospecton Plant in Durban, will generate R2.85 billion a year in local component purchases and the employment of more than 1500 people.
Watch Toyota South Africa Motor’s CEO and President, Andrew Kirby’s excitement after taking the Corolla Cross for a spin
This car, the all-new Corolla Cross, is tangible proof of our commitment to the local motor industry, as well as the South African economy.
– Andrew Kirby, TSAM President and CEO.
Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) has announced that it will be manufacturing and selling the brand-new Corolla Cross in South Africa in the fourth quarter of the year. The model reveal, made by TSAM President and CEO Andrew Kirby, follows the company’s announcement in 2019 that it was investing R2.43 billion in the production of a new passenger vehicle in South Africa.
Image courtesy of MotorPress
Image courtesy of MotorPress
Image courtesy of MotorPress
Image courtesy of MotorPress
Image courtesy of MotorPress
“We will be manufacturing this very model [Corolla Cross] in both right- and left-hand drive for South Africa and the rest of Africa right here at Prospecton. The Corolla Cross is based on the acclaimed Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform and will be built on our passenger car production line alongside the Corolla Quest,” says Andrew Kirby, TSAM President and CEO.
It is the very first time that we will be manufacturing a Hybrid model which I believe will fast become a very popular choice.
– Nigel Ward, TSAM’s Executive Vice President of Manufacturing and Manufacturing Support Group
The local production of the Corolla Cross also ushers in a couple of “firsts” for TSAM’s manufacturing team at the Prospecton Plant.
“This is a significant milestone for Toyota South Africa. It’s not often that we get to produce a brand-new body shape in our factory; plus, it is the very first time that we will be manufacturing a Hybrid model which I believe will fast become a very popular choice. And it’s the first time for us to manufacture using the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) – which allows us to keep up with global technology and trends,” says Nigel Ward, TSAM’s Executive Vice President of Manufacturing and Manufacturing Support Group.
WATCH: Andrew Kirby introduces the proudly and locally manufactured Toyota Corolla Cross
The Corolla Cross will be exported to 43 countries in Africa and is expected to push Toyota export volumes to about 15-20% per annum. Toyota is projecting growth of 7% per annum in the SUV market in Africa – offering significant growth opportunities to expand production of this new model.
This is an ideal vehicle for our market as it provides an exceptional balance between drivability, roominess, comfort and high-tech features
– ANDREW KIRBY, TSAM PRESIDENT AND CEO
While the Corolla Cross shares the same TNGA C platform with its namesake Corolla, it boasts a higher ground clearance and other attributes normally associated with an SUV.
According to Kirby: “This is an ideal vehicle for our market. It provides an exceptional balance between drivability, roominess, comfort and high-tech features – truly a game-changing SUV. It combines everything you love about Corolla with the utilitarian and rugged aesthetics of a segment-leading SUV. Overall, expectation is that the Corolla Cross will not only contribute significant sales towards the Toyota brand, but also accelerate growth mini-SUV segment, increase overall size of the passenger market in South Africa and give momentum to electrification technologies.”
“This car, the all-new Corolla Cross, is tangible proof of our commitment to the local motor industry, as well as the South African economy,” says Kirby.
A comprehensive specification, including pricing, of the local models will shared upon product launch in the fourth quarter of 2021.
Cognisant of the financial challenges faced by all South Africans in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, the Agya is aimed at discerning budget-conscious first-time buyers.
As a direct replacement for the Aygo, the Agya competes in a fiercely fought segment where value and Rands-per-feature matter most. The Agya boasts a host of standard features such as anti-lock brakes (ABS) enhanced by electronic brake force distribution (EBD), 14-inch alloy wheels, driver and front passenger airbags and the option of an automatic transmission.
The generously-appointed cabin features a mixed use of silver and black plastics and attractive, hard wearing fabric for the seats with a touch of polyurethane for the gear lever and steering wheel. The instrument binnacle features easy-to-ready graphics and sees the tachometer and Multi Instrument Display (MID) flanking the speedometer.
Image courtesy of Motorpress
Image courtesy of Motorpress
Image courtesy of Motorpress
Image courtesy of Motorpress
Image courtesy of Motorpress
Powering up the Agya experience is a Push Start button and remote central locking. All models are prepared for the use of Toyota Connect, which provides Wi-Fi connectivity to smart devices as well as a host of connected online services; and 15Gb of complimentary data. Once linked to the MyToyota App, owners can make on-demand service bookings, retrieve vehicle usage information (logbook), renew vehicle licenses, review tracking data, request roadside assistance and more.
Interior comfort is taken care of by power steering and automatic air conditioning (climate control), while all passengers enjoy the luxury of electrically operated windows. An auxiliary 12-volt socket is on hand for charging additional mobile devices.
The new Agya is a no-nonsense value proposition that’s laser-focused on delivering the best value to budget-conscious customers under the umbrella of Toyota’s legendary quality, durability and reliability
– Glenn Crompton, TSAM’s Vice-President of Marketing.
The Agya is also fitted with driver and front passenger airbags as standard. At the back, two ISOFIX mounting brackets serve to secure baby seats to the rear seat; while the rear doors are fitted with child locks for complete peace of mind. Safety also meets convenience through the fitment a vehicle security system in the form of an alarm/immobiliser.
Image courtesy of Motorpress
Image courtesy of Motorpress
Image courtesy of Motorpress
Image courtesy of Motorpress
Image courtesy of Motorpress
Engine & Performance
The Agya’s nippy but thrifty 998cm3, three-cylinder, fuel-injected petrol engine serves to make light work of urban commutes. Powering the front wheels and developing maximum power of 49kW @ 6000 rpm and peak torque of 89Nm @ 4400 rpm, the engine is mated to either a slick-shifting five-speed manual transmission for ultimate driver control; or a self-shifting four-speed automatic transmission for complete driving comfort.
The manual version of the Agya reportedly sips an average of just 4.8 l/100 km and emits a corresponding 112g CO2/km; while completing the 0-100km/h sprint in 14.6 seconds and runs to a top speed of 165km/h.
Its automatic variant is claimed to consume 4.9 l/100 km and has an emissions figure of 115g CO2/km. It accelerates from standstill to 100km/h in 16.3 seconds and has a top speed of 145km/h. An eco-indicator assists drivers in achieving fuel efficient driving.
Image courtesy of Motorpress
Image courtesy of Motorpress
Image courtesy of Motorpress
Driven at the recommended speeds, the Agya’s 33-litre fuel tank should yield a theoretical maximum range of around 687 km.
“The new Agya is a no-nonsense value proposition that’s laser-focused on delivering the best value to budget-conscious customers under the umbrella of Toyota’s legendary quality, durability and reliability,” says Glenn Crompton, TSAM’s Vice-President of Marketing.
Model line-up & Pricing
Agya MT – R178 600
Agya AT – R192 500
Agya MT (with audio) – R182 400
Agya AT (with audio) – R196 300
Warranty & Maintenance
All Agya models are sold with a 2-services/20 000 km service plan. A 3-year/100 000 km warranty is also provided.
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.
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.
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.
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Performance Car: Toyota GR Supra 3.0T
Performance Car: Toyota GR Supra 3.0T
URBAN CATEGORY WINNER: HYUNDAI ATOS 1.1 MOTION
URBAN CATEGORY WINNER: HYUNDAI ATOS 1.1 MOTION
