The convertible derivative of the Mini Cooper has just been revealed and it’s confirmed for South Africa. Here’s your first look.
The 2025 Mini Cooper Convertible will be available in both C and S derivatives and that means turbocharged petrol power.
Interestingly, the three-cylinder motor is not available and Mini has gone for the 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol instead, with a choice of two outputs; 120 kW / 250 Nm and 150 kW / 300 Nm. Both erivatives feature front-wheel drive and automatic gearboxes. The C is said to dash to 100 kph in just 8.2 seconds, with the S being the more performance biased and it’ll hit 100 kph in 6.9 seconds.
Fans of the open-top lifestyle will be interested to learn that the new Mini Cooper Convertible’s roof mechanism opens automatically in just 18 seconds. You don’t have to deploy the roof fully either and you can partially open it, like a sunroof. Once retracted, the canvas roof disappears behind the rear seats and stowed in the luggage compartment. If the weather suddenly takes a turn for the worst, the soft top be fully retracted at speeds of up to 30 kph.
We’ve always seen Mini Coopers as compact cars, with the second row of seats offering just enough space for children, but the brand is claiming the new product is a four-seater. We’ve already spent some time with the latest-generation infotainment system from Mini and this new OLED screen is impressive. For the Mini Cooper Convertible there’s a cute timer that records how long the roof has been down, which is clever. How often do you see convertibles with the roof down? Perhaps if customers were timed, they’d drop the roof more often.
When will the 2025 Mini Cooper Convertible come to SA?
BMW Group South Africa confirmed the new Convertible derivative of the new Mini Cooper will be touching down from the first quarter of 2025. Pricing and location specifications will be made available closer to launch date.
Selling Your Car in South Africa – Everything You Need to Know
There can be a lot of stress involved in selling your car. Finding the right buyer, setting a fair price, and wading through all that paperwork can induce a migraine! Without proper guidance, you risk underselling your vehicle or facing frustrating delays in finalising the sale. Or worse – there are a lot of sharks out there ready to take advantage of unwary sellers.
But it doesn’t have to be this way!
If you’re wondering, “How can I safely sell my car in South Africa?” then read on. By following a few simple steps, you can confidently sell your vehicle and turn what seems like a challenging process into a smooth and successful experience.
We’ll explain everything you need to know, ensuring you’re well-prepared to sell your car easily.
1: Decide How to Sell Your Car
Before starting the selling process, you first need to decide how you plan to sell your car. In South Africa, you typically have two main options:
Selling your car privately
Selling to a dealership
Each option has its pros and cons, so it’s important to choose the one that best suits your needs.
Selling Your Car Privately
When you sell your car privately, you have more control over the price and negotiation process. This option can potentially get you the best price, but it also requires more effort. You’ll need to advertise, meet with potential buyers, and handle all paperwork. Online social platforms are popular for private sales, but always be cautious of scammers.
Pros of Selling Privately:
You could achieve a better price than on trade-in..
Control over price negotiations.
Cons of Selling Privately:
Time-consuming.
Advertising your vehicle may incur a cost.
Potential security risks when meeting with buyers.
Selling Your Car to a Dealership
If you’re short on time or want a hassle-free process, selling your car to a dealership or a car-buying service is a convenient option. You’ll receive an instant offer and avoid the paperwork hassle. The downside is that you might not get as high a price as you would in a private sale.
Pros of Selling to a (Reputable) Dealership:
Quick and convenient.
No advertising or meeting with potential buyers is required.
Money clears quickly and safely.
Cons of Selling to a Dealership:
Lower offer compared to private sale.
Limited negotiation power.
Your car may not be in demand, making it hard to find a dealership offering to buy it.
Whether you choose to sell privately or to a dealership, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons based on your situation and needs.
2: Preparing Your Car for Sale
Once you’ve decided how you’re going to sell your second-hand car, it’s time to prepare the vehicle itself. First impressions matter, so ensuring that your car is in top condition will increase your chances of a successful sale.
Clean and Repair Your Car
A clean, well-maintained car is more likely to sell quickly and at a better price. Take the time to wash and wax the exterior, vacuum and clean the interior, and fix any small issues like scratches or dents. If the car needs any significant repairs, it may be worth addressing them before listing it.
Gather Documentation
To sell your car in South Africa, you need to complete several essential forms and gather specific documents to ensure a smooth transaction. Here’s a comprehensive overview:
Required Documents
Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC1): This document proves your ownership of the vehicle and includes details such as the make, model, year, and VIN (Vehicle Identification Number).
Roadworthy Certificate: A current roadworthy certificate is mandatory when selling a vehicle. It confirms that the car is safe and suitable for use on public roads, issued after an inspection by an accredited testing station.
Proof of Identity: You must provide valid identification, such as a South African ID, passport, or driver’s license, to verify your identity as the seller.
Notification of Change of Ownership (NCO) Form: To officially transfer ownership of the vehicle, both the seller and buyer must complete this form and submit it to the Department of Transport.
Application for Registration and Licensing of Motor Vehicle (RLV): While not always mandatory for private sales, this form assists the new owner in registering the vehicle in their name.
Finance Settlement Letter: If the vehicle has any outstanding finance, you will need a letter from your financial institution confirming that the debt has been settled or detailing any remaining balance.
Service History (optional but recommended): Providing a detailed service history can add value to your car and reassure potential buyers about its maintenance.
Sales Agreement: Although not legally required, drafting a written sales agreement that outlines the terms of the sale can help prevent misunderstandings later on.
3: Pricing Your Car
Determining the right price is one of the most critical aspects of selling your car. Overpricing can deter buyers, while underpricing means losing out on potential profits. So, how do you strike the perfect balance?
Research Similar Cars
Start by researching the current market. Look at similar cars for sale in your area to understand what other private sellers are asking for similar vehicles. Factors like mileage, condition, and the car’s age will affect its value. You can demand a premium if your car is considered rare and/or collectable, but if you ask the same (or higher) price as a dealer would, prospective buyers may prefer to buy a similar car from someone else!
Cars.co.za offers access to thousands of used cars for sale, allowing you to make the most accurate comparisons.
Be Prepared to Negotiate
When you list your car, it’s common to leave some room for negotiation. Set your price slightly higher than your bottom line so that you can comfortably negotiate with potential buyers.
4: Advertising Your Car
Now that your car is ready and priced, it’s time to advertise. The way you market your car will determine how quickly it sells.
Write a Detailed Description
When listing your car, provide as much information as possible. Include the car’s make, model, year, mileage, and any optional features or upgrades it has. Being honest about defects or issues will help build trust with potential buyers. Look at the most compelling ads you’ve seen and note the details they’ve included.
Take High-Quality Photos
Photos are critical when advertising your car. Potential buyers want to see what they’re getting, so take clear, high-quality images of the vehicle’s exterior and interior. Showcase any unique features or upgrades to make your car stand out.
5: Meeting Potential Buyers
If you’re selling your car privately, you’ll need to meet with potential buyers for test drives and negotiations. Here are some tips to ensure these meetings go smoothly:
Meet in a public place: For safety, always meet potential buyers in a well-lit, public location. Let a friend or relative know where you will be and whom you will be meeting.
Have all paperwork ready: Bring copies of the car’s registration, service history, and other relevant documents.
Be ready to negotiate: Stay firm on your price, but be willing to negotiate within reason.
6: Completing the Sale
Once you’ve found a buyer, it’s time to close the deal. Ensure all necessary paperwork is completed and signed, including a formal sales agreement.
If the buyer is paying for the vehicle by depositing money in your bank account by an electronic fund transfer (EFT), provide them with a formal sales agreement immediately, but wait for that sum to reflect as a credit in the account before handing over the vehicle and other paperwork.
A bank-guaranteed cheque for the purchase price is also an acceptable means of payment and,if the buyer is paying in cash, double-check the money before handing over the car.
If you’ve sold to a dealership, they will typically handle most of the paperwork for you, simplifying the process.
Accepting Cash?
If you’re planning to sell your car for cash, you must be aware of several potential pitfalls.
First, large cash transactions over R25,000 must be reported to the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) to comply with anti-money laundering regulations, which can create additional paperwork and scrutiny.
Additionally, accepting cash can expose you to risks such as counterfeit notes; always verify the authenticity of the money.
There’s also the possibility of buyer scams or disputes arising after the sale, as cash transactions can lack formal documentation.
To mitigate these risks, consider using a secure payment method or conducting the transaction in a safe environment, such as a bank, where funds can be verified immediately. Always ensure that you have a proper sales agreement and that the vehicle registration is transferred correctly to avoid future liabilities.
Final Thoughts: Where to List Your Car
“I want to sell my car!”
That’s great -and if you’re ready to go, consider listing it on a trusted platform like Cars.co.za. We provide a simple, secure way to list your car and connect with potential buyers. Plus, we offer services to help you evaluate your car’s worth and streamline the selling process.
Simplifying the Car Selling Process in South Africa
Follow these simple steps to take the stress out of selling your car. Remember, setting a fair price, advertising effectively, and ensuring the car is in great condition will boost your chances of a quick and profitable sale.
The Omoda C9 is not just another generously specced Chinese-made medium SUV to join the South African market. It’s a disruptor that competes at the top end of SA’s family car- and German premium brand-dominated executive SUV segments.
It is starting to feel a bit like “rinse and repeat” when it comes to new Chinese car products entering the South African market (the most recent ones you may recall are the GAC GS3 Emzoom and Emkoo), but with its C9 flagship, Omoda hopes to challenge even European premium marques, so it’s a huge deal!
Okay, it’s not unusual for brands to claim they are playing in the premium space when in reality, they’re just indulging in a bit of marketing speak. But Omoda is, in fact, the premium arm of Chery’s O&J division (in case you haven’t worked it out already, the J stands for Jaecoo). And, having arrived at the C9 launch in a Mercedes-Benz, I was interested to see how it would compare with a fellow premium contender.
It feels effortlessly luxurious…
It shouldn’t still come as a surprise, but this midsized crossover coupe (or executive SUV coupe, if you prefer) seems as luxurious and premium as a comparable model from any of our market’s legacy brands.
Several Chinese marques are “nailing the brief” with the look and feel of their new vehicles, not to mention all the tech they cram into the models (at their various price points). Indeed, it is becoming the norm to feel as comfortable and pampered in a Chinese car as you would in say, a German one. This is certainly not something we would have said 5 years ago – to be fair, Omoda was only founded in 2022.
Inspired by the Range Rover Velar…
The reason could be that Omoda has taken inspiration from the brands that inspire – or, in this case, are tied in with – it. You will certainly spot elements of the Range Rover Velar in the C9. Omoda is happy to admit the C9’s styling cues were inspired by the Velar… and its flush door handles are very à la JLR.
The Omoda C9 has plenty of kerb presence, even when clad in Moonlight White, and there are 3 other colours to choose from: Meteorite Grey, Quantum Grey, and my personal favourite, Cosmic Black.
And, because signature lighting is all the rage, the C9 boasts automatic LED headlamps, LED daytime running lights and LED taillights. The AWD derivative furthermore comes with adaptive lights up front.
The launch route, which incorporated some of the Western Cape’s most scenic (read: touristy) roads, served as the perfect backdrop to a car that would be right at home in Cape Town’s upmarket suburbs, such as the Atlantic Seaboard, yet the Omoda C9’s keen price point is likely to see this model pop up all over the country in the coming months. But more on that later, I am saving it for the climax of this review.
Omoda C9 cabin piles on the luxury
Omoda wants the C9 to compete with premium-brand models, so its cabin needs to be extraordinary, which indeed it is: plush, luxurious and superbly comfortable, with soft-touch surfaces in abundance.
I mentioned the Mercedes-Benz earlier, and when ensconced in the Omoda C9, you might be forgiven for thinking that you are seated in one of the Three-pointed Star’s luxury offerings! The newcomer’s transmission lever is a stalk, which mimics a Benz-style column shifter and the electric seat adjustment buttons on the door panel look very similar to what you’d find in a Merc. It’s all rather familiar – I like it.
No review of a Chinese brand’s crossover/SUV would be complete without a lengthy paragraph about all the features and tech it offers – and the Omoda C9 is no exception. There are 2 variants to choose from: the 2.0T Inspire and 2.0T Explore AWD, both of which are generously specced, but I won’t waffle about that here – if you want a detailed breakdown of all the features, read Omoda C9 (2024) Price & Specs.
A 9-speaker Sony audio system is standard, with the 2.0T Explore AWD boasting 12 speakers, some of which are integrated into the driver’s headrest. The front seats are electrically adjustable, heated and ventilated; the Nappa leather-trimmed ‘wheel is also electrically adjustable and heated as standard.
The rear passengers benefit from electrically adjustable (and 60/40-split folding) backrests and seat heating, as well as having a separate climate control console and ventilation outlets. Should one of those passengers require more legroom, there is a “Boss” button that allows you to move the front passenger seat forward. This should prove fun for parents with kids in the back who keep pushing it for giggles…
Up front is a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and 12.3-inch infotainment screen (with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto). The graphics are good, but as with many new vehicles in which so many controls are integrated into the touchscreen, changing the cabin temperature, for example, requires familiarisation.
There are, however, a few shortcut buttons, including one that takes you directly to the climate control screen. A panoramic sunroof is standard, as is a head-up display and a 540-degree camera system.
As consumers have come to expect, the Omoda C9 has a host of safety features and -technologies, but thankfully, they are nowhere near as intrusive as they can be. Even the alert sounds have been dimmed.
What is the Omoda C9 like to drive?
The Omoda C9 is propelled by the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro Max‘s engine, albeit with a bit more power. In this model, the 2.0-litre turbopetrol engine produces 192 kW and 400 Nm of torque. Power is sent to either the front wheels or all of the wheels, derivative-depending, via an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Both variants offer drive modes, while the Explore AWD includes off-road modes, as well as adaptive damping. There is plenty of oomph on tap, but the ‘box tends to shift a little unexpectedly at times.
Don’t get me wrong, this is an exceptionally refined car for cruising, but if you plant the accelerator pedal too aggressively, the C9 will shoot forward “enthusiastically”, which may startle its occupants (it certainly startled me!) Perhaps the throttle calibration needs a tweak, but this “issue” isn’t unique to the Omoda.
Overall, the newcomer’s ride quality is highly composed, even forgiving and, as I mentioned before (but will reiterate here, for added impact), comfortable. It all adds to the Omoda’s air of luxury and refinement.
While we were driving along the winding Chapman’s Peak Drive, the C9 felt like a large car, or at least more substantial than most family cars/medium SUVs. It commands the road in the way that executive SUVs do. We didn’t pay too much notice to the fuel consumption (the test unit had only clocked up 400 km), but it seemed a trifle high; hopefully, the model will be more fuel efficient once it has been run in.
How much does the Omoda C9 cost in SA?
Omoda C9 2.0T Inspire
R785 900
OMODA C9 2.0T Explore AWD
R885 900
Note that both variants are offered with a R25k discount (October 2024) for a limited time only.
The Omoda C9 comes standard with a 7-year/100 000 km service plan, a 7-year/200 000 km vehicle warranty and an industry-leading 10-year/1 000 000 km engine warranty (for the first owner).
In a few years, the South African car-buying landscape will be almost unrecognisable! The Omoda C9 will, without a doubt, entice buyers who previously only considered European or Japanese luxury cars. Local new-vehicle buyers are renowned for being “brand snobs”, but even brand loyalists will have to admit defeat as the deals on these cars become too sweet (I didn’t even rhyme that on purpose).
The Omoda C9 comfortably rivals the likes of the Volkswagen Tiguan (and other top-end medium SUVs) and even the 4th-gen BMW X3 (and the other executive SUVs in our market). And, at these prices, which (as explained above) is a launch special for October 2024 and will go up by R25 000 thereafter, Omoda’s proposition seems almost too good to be true, but, believe it – the C9 is going to change the game.
Curiously, a single unit of the long-discontinued BAIC X25 was registered as a new-vehicle sale in SA in September 2024. And it seems more stock is floating around…
Remember the BAIC X25, the small Chinese crossover that was discontinued in South Africa back in early 2023? Well, a single X25 unit was curiously registered as a new-vehicle sale in September 2024.
Yes, when sorting through Mzansi’s new-vehicle sales figures for September, we noticed that a solitary example of the X25 was sold through BAIC’s dealer channel (which registered a brand-wide total of 207 units last month). This is the first instance of this long-defunct nameplate appearing on the sales charts since the Chinese firm began reporting sales figures to Naamsa at the start of the year.
The X25 was discontinued locally back in early 2023.
BAIC South Africa told us the “X25 remains discontinued”, before confirming that this single sale was reported by the BAIC Nigel dealership in Gauteng. We contacted the dealer, who said it had received the unit from BAIC SA’s “head office” relatively recently, suggesting the vehicle hadn’t been gathering dust on its showroom floor for the past year and a half.
Interestingly, while BAIC SA’s website includes a note saying the X25 “has been discontinued and is no longer in production”, the BAIC dealership in Nigel – a small town at the south-eastern edge of the East Rand – still lists the X25 in the new-vehicle section of its website.
The X25 is still listed as a new vehicle on BAIC Nigel’s website.
Fascinatingly, we also discovered that BAIC Nigel – which is seemingly run by Epson Motors – is advertising at least 5 more “new” X25 units, each listed as a 2024 manual-equipped model with just 50 km on the clock. In fact, as recently as 7 October 2024, the dealership ran a post on Facebook offering customers the chance to “drive away in a brand new X25 from only R3 900 pm with a 5-year or 120 000 km warrant”.
We then learned that BAIC Springs – a 2nd dealer just 20 km away from Nigel – also has 7 “new” examples on its showroom floor. For the record, the X25 1.5 Comfort models are all listed for R229 900, while the X25 1.5 Fashion models are up for R239 900. As a reminder, this naturally aspirated engine offers the front axle 85 kW and 148 Nm via a 5-speed manual gearbox (a 4-speed auto was optional).
Several “new old stock” units are listed on Cars.co.za.
While it’s not entirely clear why this “new old stock” has suddenly entered BAIC’s dealer network more than 18 months after the X25 was discontinued, our understanding is that the vehicles in question had been standing at the automaker’s Eastern Cape assembly plant for some time.
Of course, BAIC’s factory in the Coega Industrial Development Zone outside Gqeberha once assembled the X25 from semi-knockdown kits shipped over from China. These days, however, it’s ostensibly assembling the X55, though on a recent visit a Cars.co.za correspondent described the plant as “eerily quiet”, saying he “saw little to suggest that vehicles were being produced”.
The lavishly appointed Omoda C9 marks the first time that Chinese automotive group Chery has launched a model above the medium SUV segment in Mzansi. Here is what the newcomer comes equipped with, and how much the derivatives cost…
The Omoda C9 (a product of Chery’s O&J division) was previewed at last year’s Johannesburg Festival of Motoring. Still, it has taken about a year for the Omoda flagship model to arrive in our market.
For context, the arrestingly styled coupe-SUV is not so much a “new” model as a repackaged version of the RX – a model that one of Chery’s other sub-brands, Exeed – offers in overseas markets.
In terms of dimensions, the Omoda C9 falls into the German premium brand-dominated executive SUV segment – but, fear not, the Chinese-built newcomer is specified and finished to an appropriately lofty level. The model is 4 775 mm long, 1 920 mm wide and stands 1 671 mm tall, which – for reference – makes it 29 mm longer, 2 mm wider and 50 mm taller than the outgoing BMW X4 coupe-SUV.
The newcomer’s exterior execution is marked by a (relatively) low-slung cross-coupe profile and sleek, sculpted sheet metal, complemented by pop-up door handles. At the front, the body-coloured, diamond-patterned grille sits between automatically activated LED headlamps (which are adaptive, with a welcome lighting sequence, on the Explore AWD variant) and wrapped by an LED lightbar. The rear features a tailgate spoiler and wraparound LED light bar that integrates the tail-light elements.
The C9 rides on 20-inch alloy wheels (complemented by red brake callipers on the Explore AWD). A full-size spare wheel is housed under the floor of the Omoda’s luggage compartment, with the latter offering an impressive 660 litres of space (and up to 1 783 litres with the 60:40-split 2nd-row folded down).
Under the bonnet is a 192 kW/400 Nm 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbopetrol engine that drives either the front- (Inspire FWD) or all wheels (Explore AWD) via an 8-speed automatic transmission. Shift paddles come standard, while the top-of-range derivative gains off-road drive modes, as well as adaptive damping.
Inside, the Omoda C9 is trimmed in finely stitched leather trim (black, in the case of the Inspire FWD and Black/Light Brown Nappa in the Explore AWD), dual 12.3-inch screens (integrated into a single, curved panel with a thickness of just 15 mm), a 50W wireless charger, a 9-speaker Sony audio system, which in the AWD derivative includes 3 extra speakers, some of which are integrated into the driver’s headrest.
The front seats are electrically adjustable (including lumbar support) as well as heated and ventilated. Even the Nappa leather-trimmed steering wheel is electrically adjustable and heated as standard.
The front passenger seat features a “Boss” button that allows the rear occupants to quickly and easily move this pew forward to maximise the already generous rear legroom. Rear passengers also benefit from power-adjustable backrests and seat heating, as well as a dedicated climate-control console.
Comprehensive specification – for both variants
Other standard features include a keyless entry and start, a head-up display, electrically adjustable-, heated- and folding side mirrors, dual-zone climate- and adaptive cruise control, a 540-degree camera system, wireless Apple CarPlayAndroid Auto, LED ambient lighting, a panoramic sunroof and a powered tailgate. The Explore AWD even comes equipped with a 3-fragrance dispensing system.
As for standard safety and driver-assistance features, both Omonda C9 derivatives come equipped with dual- front, side and curtain airbags, as well as driver’s knee and -bolster airbags, a built-in dashcam, front and rear PDC, plus automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert and -brake, lane departure warning, -change assist and -departure prevention, integrated cruise and traffic congestion assist and emergency lane keeping (all part of the intelligent collision-avoidance system).
How much does the Omoda C9 cost in SA?
Omoda C9 2.0T Inspire FWD
R785 900
OMODA C9 2.0T Explore AWD
R885 900
Note that both variants are offered with a R25k discount (October 2024) for a limited time only.
The Omoda C9 comes standard with a 7-year/100 000 km service plan, a 7-year/200 000 km vehicle warranty and an industry-leading 10-year/1 000 000 km engine warranty (for the first owner).
The new Lexus GX will launch in SA in early 2025. We’ve uncovered early local info on the Prado’s luxury twin, including engine details, number of variants and specs…
In July 2024, Cars.co.za broke the news that the new Lexus GX is coming to South Africa in early 2025. Now, we can confirm various fresh details about the local range, as well as exactly when Toyota SA Motors plans to introduce the Land Cruiser Prado’s luxury twin.
Our latest information suggests the GX – a nameplate never before offered in Mzansi – is scheduled to launch locally in March 2025. While it’s obviously too early for pricing to have been nailed down, we have discovered that this luxury ladder-frame SUV will effectively be available in 4 forms at launch.
The GX is expected in Mzansi around March 2025.
From what we understand, the local GX line-up will comprise a quartet of derivatives at launch, each powered by the Japanese firm’s twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine – and each thus likely to wear the “GX550” moniker. That means the hybrid powertrain (GX550h) available in certain overseas markets won’t be offered locally at launch.
But back to that V6 mill. Familiar from the Land Cruiser 300 and LX600 but here detuned slightly to 260 kW and 650 Nm, the V35A-FTS engine is mated to all 4 wheels via a 10-speed automatic transmission. This petrol motor will serve to further differentiate the GX from the Prado, with the latter offered exclusively in turbodiesel guise.
The GX will be powered by a 260 kW twin-turbo V6 petrol motor.
We believe the local GX portfolio will kick off with the Overtrail grade, which will furthermore be available as a 2nd variant in bi-tone form. The 3rd derivative will be the Overtrail Off-Road, which – like the 2 above – will ship standard in 5-seater guise. Finally, the seemingly more road-biased SE is expected to top the range, featuring added equipment and upgrading to 7 seats.
Our information suggests all Overtrail derivatives will boast a braked towing capacity of 3 500 kg and ride on 18-inch alloy wheels (wrapped in 265/70 all-terrain tyres), while the SE flagship will be able to tow up to 3 130 kg (likewise braked) and roll on 22-inch rims (shod in road-biased 265/50 rubber).
Overtrail derivatives will feature 18-inch alloys and all-terrain tyres.
So, what about standard features? Well, the Overtrail derivatives look set to ship with items such as LED headlamps (including auto high beams), a tilt-and-slide moonroof, a powered tailgate, an electro-chromatic rear-view mirror, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14.0-inch touchscreen, the multi-terrain monitor, a head-up display, a 10-speaker sound system, wireless smartphone charging, a refrigerated cooler box, synthetic leather upholstery and electrically adjustable (plus heated-and-ventilated) front seats.
Furthermore, all Overtrail variants will boast a rear differential lock, along with Toyota’s multi-terrain select system, downhill assist control, crawl control and the brand’s trick e-KDSS suspension system. From what we understand, the 7-seater SE will do without the aforementioned off-road enhancements, though will likewise feature a locking centre differential, full-time 4×4 and low-range gearing.
We believe the SE derivative will look something like this (international model shown).
Then, the GX Overtrail Off-Road variant will be set apart by various other 4×4-specific pieces of equipment, such as additional underbody protection, off-road side steps, a side-mounted gear carrier, a roof rack, all-weather floormats and a luggage-compartment liner.
Meanwhile, the 3-row SE derivative will score features like a 21-speaker Mark Levinson sound system, semi-aniline leather upholstery, a front-seat massaging function, 2nd-row seat heating, a fixed panoramic glass roof, adaptive high beams, a panoramic-view monitor, a digital rear-view mirror and even automatically deploying side steps.
The SE flagship will come with automatically deploying side steps.
According to our information, the GX will be available in the following 5 monotone exterior colours: White Quartz, Sonic Titanium, Titanium Carbide Grey, Graphite Black and Mercury Grey (with the latter hue exclusive to the SE grade). The bi-tone version of the Overtrail, meanwhile, will be offered in Sonic Titanium, Titanium Carbide Grey and Desert Moonlight, each paired with a black finish for the roof and side-mirror caps.
For the record, Toyota Motor Corporation applied to trademark the “GX550” badge in South Africa back in June 2023, about 2 weeks after the 3rd-generation GX was revealed on the global stage. While the trademark has still to be officially registered in Mzansi, it’s likely just a matter of time.
The new GX will be positioned between the RX and LX.
As a reminder, the Lexus GX is a body-on-frame SUV that traces its roots all the way back to 2002. While the opening 2 generations were produced exclusively in left-hand-drive guise (catering primarily to North America), this 3rd iteration is also manufactured in right-hand drive, opening the door to introductions in its domestic market of Japan as well as in Australia and indeed SA.
Set to be positioned between the Lexus RX (currently running from R1 452 600 to R1 740 300) and flagship LX (with current pricing bookends of R2 517 500 and R2 997 400), the GX shares various elements – though not its powertrain – with the latest Land Cruiser Prado, right down to its “J250” model code. The Prado, for the record, is currently priced from R1 296 300 to R1 462 400.
New Lexus GX derivatives for South Africa
Lexus GX550 Overtrail
Lexus GX550 Overtrail Bi-Tone
Lexus GX550 Overtrail Off-Road
Lexus GX550 SE
We expect the new GX to ship standard with a 7-year/100 000 km warranty and maintenance plan with the same parameters.
Having launched the updated Kia Sonet small crossover in South Africa earlier this year, the Korean brand’s local subsidiary has now added a pair of entry-level LS variants and is offering a R40k deal-assistance package on all other derivatives.
The Kia Sonet competes in the highly competitive compact SUV segment and the latest updated Sonet now offers revised styling as well as more choice for local buyers.
The Kia Sonet gains a fresh styling update for 2024.
The newly arrived 1.5 LS manual (R299 995) and 1.5 LS CVT (R324 995) derivatives are not majorly de-specced versions of their LX trim-grade equivalents (the range’s previous entry-level variants), yet they retail for R67k less than their siblings. What’s more, Kia South Africa has announced that up to R40 000 in deal assistance is available on LX, EX, EX Plus and SX variants “for the remainder of the year (2024).”
Although the improved affordability at the entry point of the facelifted Sonet range will be welcomed, the drawback is a reduction of the standard service plan from 4 years/60 000 km to 3 years/45 000 km.
What’s Changed on the latest Kia Sonet?
The Kia Sonet’s design follows the Korean firm’s latest “Opposites United” design philosophy which is also employed on other Kia models such as the Picanto and Seltos.
The Sonet gains a new rear taillight design.
The updated Sonet features a revised bonnet, grille and bumper and gains a new light signature. Kia has also reworked the rear taillight clusters.
A new paint colour option, Pewter Olive metallic is available and buyers can also choose from a dual-tone finish with either Glacier White Pearl with a black roof or Red metallic with a black roof. In addition, depending on the grade, 2 wheel options are also offered, both 16-inches in size.
The Sonet’s interior remains mostly unchanged.
The interior remains mostly the same as before and depending on the grade, the Sonet can be had with either an 8-inch or 10.25-inch touchscreen system.
As far as engines go, the familiar naturally-aspirated 1.5-litre petrol engine with 85 kW and 144 Nm is available in conjunction with either a 5-speed manual transmission or CVT automatic. A 3-cylinder 1.0-litre turbopetrol with 88 kW and 172 Nm is also available with a 7-speed dual-clutch (auto) transmission.
In terms of standard safety equipment, all variants are equipped with ABS with EBD, electronic stability control (including hill-start control), dual front airbags and ISOfix child seat anchors, while the EX Plus and SX variants come equipped with 6 airbags (additional side and curtain ‘bags).
The range-topping 1.5 SX CVT also comes equipped with advanced driver assistance systems, such as blind-spot collision avoidance assist, lane-keep and- follow assist and forward collision avoidance assist.
What features are available for the new Kia Sonet?
Sonet LS
The Sonet range starts with the LS trim, which includes:
Daytime Running Lights
15-inch steel wheels with decorative covers
Cloth and leather combination upholstery
Manual air conditioning
Height-adjustable driver’s seat
Rake adjustable steering
Steering-wheel mounted controls
4.2-inch TFT Supervision instrument cluster
8-inch touchscreen infotainment with 6 speakers
Reverse-view camera
Bluetooth with Voice Recognition
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
USB charging ports (front and rear)
Single-piece folding rear seatback
Front disc brakes, with drums at the rear
Central locking and immobiliser
Sonet LX
Offers the following over and above the LS grade:
16-inch alloy wheels
Driver and front passenger sun-visor mirrors
60:40 split rear seats
Disc brakes front and rear
Sonet EX
Offers the following over and above the LX grade:
Rear parking sensors
LED daytime running lights
LED rear combination lights
LED positioning lights
Rear fog lamps
Centre console armrest with integrated storage box
Leather-wrapped steering wheel and transmission lever
Auto-folding electric side mirrors with integrated indicator lamps
Cruise control
Sonet EX Plus
Includes all LX features, but adds:
Automatic climate control
16-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels
Full artificial leather upholstery
10.25-inch LCD Supervision instrument cluster
10.25-inch colour infotainment touchscreen
Electrochromatic rearview mirror
Sonet SX
Includes LX and EX features but adds:
Smart entry with push-button start
LED headlights
LED front fog lights
Wireless smartphone charger
Drive Mode Select
How much does the Kia Sonet cost in South Africa?
Note that pricing is accurate as of October 2024.
Kia Sonet 1.5 LS Manual
R299 995
Kia Sonet 1.5 LS CVT
R324 995
Available with up to R40k deal assistance (until 31 December 2024):
Kia Sonet 1.5 LX Manual
R366 995
Kia Sonet 1.5 LX CVT
R391 995
Kia Sonet 1.5 EX CVT
R411 995
Kia Sonet 1.0T EX DCT
R436 995
Kia Sonet 1.5 EX Plus CVT
R454 995
Kia Sonet 1.5 SX CVT
R484 995
The Sonet is sold with Kia’s 5-year/unlimited km warranty, inclusive of Roadside Assistance. Note, however, that although the facelifted Kia Sonet was launched (in June 2024) with a 4-year/60 000 km service plan as standard, that has now been reduced to a 3-year/45 000 km service plan.
What To Buy: Hyundai Exter vs Chery Tiggo 4 vs Nissan Magnite
How well does the new Hyundai Exter stack up against best-selling budget crossovers such as the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro and Nissan Magnite? More importantly, which one of these cars represents the strongest buying proposition? Let’s find out!
Suffice it to say, buyers are spoilt for choice in this segment and this article will examine how the new Hyundai Exter stacks up against the popular Chery Tiggo 4 Pro and the Nissan Magnite.
The main aim of this article is to help you, the consumer, make an informed buying decision. To help you do this, we will provide you with the need-to-know information and insight based on available vehicle information and our experience with the cars in question.
This article will cover key aspects such as Performance & Efficiency, Interior Features & Safety, Dimensions & Practicality, as well as Pricing & Warranty details.
If, at the end of this article, you are still undecided as to what to buy, you are more than welcome to reach out to us for advice via X, Facebook or Instagram. Our experienced test team will gladly assist you.
What To Buy: Hyundai Exter vs Chery Tiggo 4 vs Nissan Magnite
Performance
Hyundai Exter
Chery Tiggo 4 Pro
Nissan Magnite
Powertrain
1.2-litre, naturally aspirated petrol
1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol 1.5-litre, turbocharged, petrol
1.0-litre naturally-aspirated 1.0-litre, turbocharged petrol
All Hyundai Exter derivatives are powered by a naturally aspirated 1.2-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine that produces 61 kW and 114 Nm of torque. On paper, its peak outputs are notably better than what’s offered by the equivalent Magnite, but it’s not as punchy as the larger capacity engine in the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro.
Thanks to the Exter’s low kerb weight of 957 kg, its engine doesn’t have to work too hard to get the vehicle up to speed. In an urban setting, the Exter’s performance is more than adequate (allied with a responsive steering feel), plus the manual ‘box has a light, but direct action, which will please buyers.
The engine sounds a trifle strained at the national speed limit, which suggests that the gearbox would benefit from having an additional (6th) gear to reduce the engine’s RPM to the benefit of fuel efficiency. With that said, the Exter is more suited to urban- or city driving, as opposed to long-distance touring.
The ride quality is good, considering the Exter’s price point – the Indian-build budget crossover has a forgiving, comfortable suspension setup that can cope with South Africa’s deteriorating road network.
Note that we have yet to drive the Exter AMT, but our experience with automated manual transmissions in other products has been disappointing. While an AMT offers the convenience of 2-pedal driving, that type of transmission is usually paired with a motor that produces limited torque, so shifts need to be timely – but they aren’t always! We reserve judgment on the Exter AMT until we have experienced it.
Good fuel economy is one of the Exter’s strengths; Hyundai claims an average of 5.7 to 5.9 L/100km. On our test drive of a manual Exter, it returned excellent figures of around 6.0 to 6.2 L/100 km.
Chery Tiggo 4 Pro
The naturally aspirated 1.5-litre petrol engine in the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro does offer superior peak engine outputs to the Exter and, if you plan on doing more highway driving over longer distances, perhaps the Chinese offering is a more suitable transport solution.
The Tiggo 4 Pro range also has the option of a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbopetrol engine, which is the preferred powertrain for its punchier performance, but only if your budget allows you to purchase a 1.5T-powered derivative, of course. Ride quality is good on well-sealed surfaces, but does deteriorate on poorer surfaces due to insufficient damping. However, if you’re likely to spend most of your time driving in an urban environment (not on gravel), the Tiggo 4 Pro will be adequately refined for this purpose.
Unlike the Exter, the Tiggo 4 Pro is available with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which is a more refined auto compared with the former’s AMT, but a laid-back driving approach is required to get the best out of a CVT (hard acceleration should be a last resort, not the norm). Chery also offers a dual-clutch transmission (DCT) in the flagship Tiggo 4 Pro Elite, which trumps the CVT if you can afford it.
In exchange for punchier performance, buyers will have to accept higher fuel consumption, which isn’t ideal for a car of this size. Chery claims an average fuel-efficiency of between 6.7- and 7.0 L/100 km, but real-world figures above 8.8 L/100km can be expected.
Nissan Magnite
Nissan expanded the Magnite range in 2023 with the addition of a naturally aspirated 1.0-litre petrol engine with 53 kW and 96 Nm of torque. In the company of the Exter and Tiggo 4 Pro, this engine’s outputs are, well, workmanlike.
Admittedly, we have yet to drive a derivative of the Magnite with this engine, but we can comfortably recommend opting for a turbopetrol variant of this model, again, if your budget allows it. Naturally-aspirated engines lose about 17% of their power at higher altitudes such as in Gauteng and the Magnite, with its low torque output will suffer for that, especially when fully loaded with passengers and luggage.
The turbocharged Magnite does offer better overall performance than its naturally aspirated sibling. However, we have found that this engine is gutless below 2 800 rpm, so you have to gear down often to “keep the engine on the boil” (so to speak) or consider opting for the automatic (CVT) derivative.
Ride quality is fair-to-good, but the cabin insulation could be better (to stop road- and tyre noise from bothering the Magnite’s occupants), something which will hopefully be addressed when the facelifted Nissan Magnite reaches Mzansi. When you corner hard in the Magnite, body roll is also pronounced.
As far as fuel efficiency is concerned, the Magnite returns around 6.5 L/100km in real-world driving situations (Nissan claims an average of between 5.2- and 6.0 L/100 km).
Interior execution and features
For this feature comparison, we will compare the range-topping derivatives from each model range.
Yes, 2 front USB, 1 rear USB, no wireless charging
Yes to all, 1 front USB
Rear View Camera
Yes
Yes
Front and Rear, 360-degree
Steering Adjustment: Rake / Reach
Rake only
Rake and reach
No
Cruise Control
Yes
Yes
Yes
Air Conditioning
Climate control
Climate control
Climate control
Panoramic Sunroof
Tilt sunroof
Sunroof
No
Upholstery / electric seats
Partial artificial leather and cloth, manual seats
Leather, electrically adjusted driver’s seat
Partial artificial leather and cloth, manual seats
Front / Rear Park Distance Control
Rear only
Rear only
Rear only
Safety Features
6 airbags, ABS with EBD, Stability control (no traction control), tyre pressure monitor
6 airbags, ABS (no EBD), Electronic Stability Control with traction control, Brake Assist, hill descent control, tyre pressure monitoring
2 airbags, ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Control with traction control, hill start assist, tyre pressure monitoring
Interior feature summary
As Hyundai’s new budget crossover (it’s positioned below the popular Venue small crossover), the Exter features a rudimentary cabin design featuring mostly hard-wearing plastics. While there’s no major wow factor to the Exter’s cabin, it exhibits good perceived build quality and the central 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system is easy to use with an intuitive menu layout. A tilting sunroof adds to the Exter’s charm and it’s worth mentioning that both USB-A and USB-C ports are present to charge your devices.
The Tiggo 4 Pro’s cabin ambience, by comparison, is elevated by soft-touch surfaces and a variety of materials that give it a more stylish look and feel. Perceived build quality is good too and, in top-spec guise, the Chery excels with good “standard feature value” with nice-to-haves such as an enlarged (10.25-inch) touchscreen infotainment system, a wireless charging pad, electrically adjustable seats and a sunroof. Note, however, that the top-spec Tiggo is notably pricier than the top-of-the-range Exter.
Moving inside the Magnite, it’s clear that Nissan is targeting a more youthful clientele with its colourful, retro-style instrument cluster and angular air vents. The cabin materials represent a mixed bag with some poor-quality finishes and average perceived build quality. In Acenta Plus guise, the Magnite does have a long list of standard features, however. The infotainment system is easy to navigate and a 360-degree camera system is a bonus. Note that the Magnite lags behind its rivals with dual airbags versus the 6 airbags in both the Exter and Tiggo 4 Pro, which might be a drawback if safety is a priority for you.
Dimensions and Practicality
Hyundai Exter
Chery Tiggo 4 Pro
Nissan Magnite
Length
3 815 mm
4 318 mm
3 994 mm
Width
1 710 mm
1 831 mm
1 758 mm
Height
1 631 mm
1 662 mm
1 572 mm
Wheelbase
2 450 mm
2 610 mm
2 500 mm
Kerb Weight
957 kg
1 364 kg
1 014 kg
Ground Clearance
185 mm
180 mm
205 mm
Load Capacity
290 – 1 275 L
340 – 1 100 L
336 L
Practicality Summary
The Tiggo 4 Pro has a sizable load bay and the 60:40 split seats add further flexibility.
The Exter has a smaller overall footprint than the Tiggo 4 Pro and is marginally smaller than the Magnite. Nonetheless, the Hyundai’s cabin is surprisingly spacious, even if its load bay is smaller than those of the Chery and Nissan. Based on manufacturer-supplied figures, when the Exter’s rear bench is folded down, it frees up more utility space than you’d get in a Tiggo 4 Pro (in the same configuration), so check that on a test drive! In terms of overall passenger space, the Chery is best, thanks to its longer wheelbase.
Pricing and warranty
Pricing is accurate as of October 2024.
Hyundai Exter
Price
Chery Tiggo 4 Pro
Price
Nissan Magnite
Price
Entry
Exter 1.2 Premium Manual
R269 900
Tiggo 4 Pro 1.5 LiT manual
R279 900
Magnite 1.0 Visia manual
R240 000
Exter 1.2 Premium Auto
R294 900
Tiggo 4 Pro 1.5 LiT auto
R314 900
Magnite 1.0 Visia auto
R256 800
Tiggo 4 Pro 1.5T LiT auto
R359 900
Magnite 1.0 Turbo Visia manual
R302 800
Mid
Exter 1.2 Executive Manual
R289 900
–
Magnite 1.0 Acenta manual
R260 900
Exter 1.2 Executive Auto
R314 900
–
Magnite 1.0 Acenta auto
R277 800
Magnite 1.0 Turbo Acenta manual
R323 100
Nissan Magnite 1.0 Turbo Acenta Kuro manual
R333 600
Magnite 1.0 Turbo Acenta auto
R353 200
Magnite 1.0 Turbo Acenta Kuro auto
R363 100
Top
Exter 1.2 Elite auto
R334 900
Tiggo 4 Pro 1.5T Elite CVT
R386 900
Magnite 1.0 Acenta Plus manual
R277 000
Tiggo 4 Pro 1.5T LiT Elite DCT
R415 900
Magnite 1.0 Acenta Plus auto
R294 700
Magnite 1.0 Turbo Acenta Plus manual
R343 200
Magnite 1.0 Turbo Acenta Plus auto
R377 800
Warranty
5-yr / 150 000 km (vehicle) 7-yr/ 200 000 km (drivetrain)
5-yr / 150 000 km (vehicle) 10-yr / 1 million km (1st owner- engine)
As highlighted above, Hyundai’s newcomer competes at the lower end of the budget crossover segment and, based on our video review of the Exter, we can comfortably recommend the Indian-built model to budget-conscious buyers looking for a capable and well-priced urban runabout.
The Exter represents a stronger buying proposition than the equivalent Nissan Magnite, both in terms of engine performance and overall quality, despite the Nissan having a slightly stronger vehicle warranty.
The Chery Tiggo 4 Pro is a larger vehicle and with a strong standard feature set, it’s a difficult-to-ignore option in this segment – it’s no surprise that it’s currently a best-seller in the new-vehicle market. The top-spec Elite derivatives are the sweet spot in the range, but they do command a higher premium than the range-topping Exter and will only be accessible to buyers who can stretch their budgets accordingly.
At the time of writing, Mahindra launched its XUV 3XO budget crossover and our first encounter with the product was very positive. The XUV 3XO appears to be a well-engineered car that has a punchy 1.2-litre turbopetrol engine and comes packed with standard features. Given its keen pricing structure, it’s a strong rival to the Hyundai Exter. Look out for a comparison featuring the Mahindra 3XO soon!
If you’re looking for an affordable compact SUV for under R300k, we suggest that you put the Hyundai Exter, Chery Tiggo 4 Pro and Mahindra 3XO on your shortlist.
What are the main differences between the Audi A3 and the S3? Let’s take a look!
Are you looking for the differences between the Audi A3 vs S3?
The main differences between the Audi A3 and the Audi S3 in South Africa come down to performance, design, and pricing. Let’s take a closer look!
Audi A3 vs S3: What’s the difference?
Performance
Audi A3
The Audi A3 is available in Sportback or Sedan guise with engines including the 1.4-litre turbo-petrol (35TFSI) producing 110 kW and 250 Nm with an 8-speed automatic transmission and the 2.0-litre turbo-petrol (40TFSI) offering 140 kW and 320 Nm with a 7-speed dual clutch transmission. The A3 is geared towards everyday comfort and efficiency. The A3 35TFSI claims 8.2 seconds in the sprint from zero to 100 kph while the A3 40TFSI is marginally faster with a claimed time of 7.4 seconds.
Comparatively, the Audi S3 is a sportier model (also offered in Sportback or Sedan guise) with a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine delivering 213 kW and 400 Nm with a 7-speed dual clutch transmission, resulting in much quicker acceleration with a claimed zero to 100 kph sprint time of 4.9 seconds. It also comes with Audi’s Quattro all-wheel drive for better handling and stability.
While both cars share similar exterior lines, the S3 has sportier touches, including a more aggressive body kit, larger wheels, quad exhausts, and a lower stance, setting it apart from the more subtle A3.
Inside, the S3 also benefits from sportier accents, including sport seats, higher-end materials, and performance-focused interior details, while the A3 remains more focused on luxury and everyday usability.
Why no Renault Clio units were sold in SA last month
Not a single Renault Clio unit was sold in South Africa in September 2024. Here’s why the French hatchback simply didn’t feature on the local sales charts last month…
Yes, while the French firm’s local division recorded 1 426 total sales last month (seeing it place 9th overall), not a single unit of the Clio was registered. Why? Well, it seems production of the pre-facelift Clio V – which arrived in South Africa only in February 2022 after a particularly lengthy delay – has ceased overseas.
Production of the pre-facelift Clio V appears to have ended.
Motus, the company responsible for distributing Renault products in South Africa, told Cars.co.za that the “current Clio is at the end of its lifecycle”, adding that “limited stock” is currently available via its national dealer network. For the record, the model is still listed on Renault SA’s website.
Renault’s local distributor furthermore told us the “Clio facelift project is on hold for now, until market conditions improve”. Of course, the refreshed version of the BF-generation Clio was revealed globally back in April 2023 and had been expected to arrive in Mzansi in the 3rd quarter of 2024.
Renault says a local launch of the facelifted Clio is “on hold for now”.
What about the updated Captur? Well, in mid-August 2024, Renault SA told The Citizen Motoring that it was still “conducting feasibility studies” on bringing the facelifted Captur to the local market, adding that the new Duster (originally expected in SA in the final half of this year) had been pushed back to the first half of 2025, too. For the record, local registrations of the outgoing Duster have slowed to single digits over the past 2 months.
As a reminder, the outgoing Clio range comprises 3 derivatives, each employing a turbocharged 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine that delivers 74 kW and 160 Nm to the front axle via a 6-speed manual gearbox (no automatic is offered locally). The line-up kicks off with the entry-level Life (R312 999), while the mid-tier Zen is priced at R327 999 and the top-spec Intens at R367 999.
The outgoing Clio portfolio in SA comprises a trio of derivatives.
The last time the Clio nameplate didn’t appear on the local sales charts was in January 2022, shortly before the BF-generation model was finally introduced (with stock of the Clio IV having been depleted). According to our records, Renault registered 641 units of the Clio V in 2022, with that number climbing to 723 units in 2023.
Despite local sales tapering markedly over the past 3 months – with only 8 units sold in July, a mere 3 units in August and now zero sales in September – the Clio’s year-to-date tally for 2024 currently stands at 765 units. Interestingly, as many as 230 of those were registered in March this year.
The outgoing pre-facelift Clio in SA features only a manual gearbox, with no auto option.
While the B-segment hatchback space in SA is still dominated by the Kariega-built Volkswagen Polo, this category has lost substantial sales volumes seemingly both to more budget-friendly sub-B-segment contenders (think VW Polo Vivo, Suzuki Swift, Toyota Starlet and the like) and, of course, crossovers. In addition, several big names have exited the market over the couple of few years, including the Ford Fiesta, Nissan Micra and Kia Rio.
