Audi RS4 Avant Review

There are few cars on the market that offer the space and practicality of a station wagon while delivering genuine supercar performance. I would imagine owning an Audi RS4 Avant would be like having a personal assistant that will fetch the kids from school in record time, collect furniture and gardening equipment on the weekend and then casually enter a boxing tournament, defeating everyone while doing some light calculus between rounds. And also happens to be a lingerie model. The latest Avant from Audi is an extremely capable and beautiful machine. Here’s why.

Audi RS4 Avant review by Ciro De Siena

Engine Capability

The Audi RS4 Avant borrows the same naturally aspirated 4.2 litre V8 petrol engine from its coupe sibling, the RS5. Audi has decided to keep the RS4 free of superchargers and/or turbochargers, for enhanced driving experience. This is about as close to a racing engine for the road as Audi will sell you, and the feel of a naturally aspirated engine is sought after in this segment of the market. Additionally its closest rivals, the BMW M3 and Mercedes C63 AMG, both feature naturally breathing engines. There is no M3 wagon in SA, but there is a C63 AMG wagon available.

Redlining at a rather incredible 8500rpm, and providing 331kW and 430Nm, the Audi RS4 Avant is a little light on torque compared to the C63 AMG, but has more power than the outgoing M3. The moderate torque means you have to work the engine to get the most out of it.

However, the dual clutch gearbox (the only option on this model) is particularly talented at always being in the right gear for the conditions, especially in Sport mode, and rapid-fire flappy paddles are at your disposal for manual shifts. Downshifts are a particular highlight; the throttle is blipped on each shift (manual or auto) resulting in an angry but incredibly enjoyable bark from the exhausts.

Exterior Styling

Audi design has always been accused of being a little too subtle. The last RS4 looked the part, but felt a little shoulderless next to its rivals. The latest generation looks fantastic. Uniquely flared wheel arches give it an incredibly muscular stance, while also setting it apart from lesser Avants in the range. The car sits lower, and features a lower and unique front air dam, giving it a more aggressive head on appearance.

I personally love a station wagon’s appearance, and there is no wagon quite like the Audi RS4 Avant. The whole car emanates athleticism, even while it’s parked. Just staring at it feels like watching an Olympic athlete warming up for a race. With standard 19 inch rims or optional 20’s, the RS4 Avant manages to be as visually exciting as the driving experience it delivers.

Interior Styling

Interior styling is modern yet classic German sports saloon affair. The thick, flat-bottomed RS leather steering wheel has been carefully designed to instantly make you feel like you’re about to drive something quite special. The front seats are extremely sporting, making use of Audi’s one piece design philosophy, and decked out in an alcantara/leather combo, they look superb.
The centre console is perhaps a little dated now, but all controls have been refreshed and are well thought out and positioned.

Audi’s human interface system, MMI, is one of the easiest to use on the market, and owners will get to grips with it in no time at all.
The rear seats fold almost completely flat, resulting in massive load space. With the rear seats up, owners can easily fit all sorts of canines and/or luggage back there. The sound system is superb and should handle all the latest music devices, although they have done away with the traditional Aux jack. Audi’s WAN system turns your car into a WiFi hotspot; simply slip a SIM card into the dash the car turns into the world’s fastest internet café.

Safety Features

Featuring an array of airbags, the Audi RS4 Avant also features new Sideguard© technology, which deploys head and torso level airbags in side-impact collisions. The vehicle features Anti slip regulation, ABS and EBD, to manage traction at all speeds and in all conditions. On each outer rear seat, ISOFix child seat anchors are standard. The performance braking system is designed to handle frequent heavy use.

Driving Capability

There are faster cars on the market than the Audi RS4 Avant, but they either say Porsche on the back or feature a prancing horse on the front. There’s not much out there that would run away from an RS4, and it’s for one fairly simple reason, the way this car corners defies both the laws of physics and the law of the land. To get anywhere near the limit, you have to be brave and throw the car into corners at silly speeds. Very few cars provide this level of confidence to the average driver, and in the real world on real roads, I would say the RS4 is one of the quickest cars money can buy.

That high revving V8 provides a constant soundtrack of angry bellows, sporting snorts and barking downshifts. Pushing the engine to the red line in every gear is guaranteed to provide goosebumps every time; just ensure that you have a lot of road ahead of you. 0 – 100km/h takes just 4.7 seconds, and the next 100km/h doesn’t take much longer than that.

The speed is intoxicating and much like when you’re having fun and accidentally run up a massive tab at the bar, enjoying yourself in the Audi will hurt your wallet. On one particularly quick run the car averaged 20.6 litres/100km – that’s Range Rover territory. Behaving and locking in Eco-mode will help achieve its claimed figures, but in a car with this much power, Eco-mode feels very boring indeed.

The Audi RS4 Avant – Conclusion

Driving the Audi RS4 Avant makes you feel like you can accomplish anything. The car offers equal parts practicality and genuine supercar performance, at a fraction of the price of a supercar. In that sense it’s a bargain. In fact the only thing wrong with the Audi RS4 Avant is that it is so capable, it doesn’t provide any drama until you are at aeroplane speeds. If you want a hairier and scarier drive, look to its rivals. But if you want comfort, safety, performance and real world pace, this is a very unique proposition from the four ringed brand.

Audi RS4 Avant – Price

Audi RS4 Avant – R875 500

  • Emissions tax: Approximately R17 500
  • View the Audi RS4: New / Used
  • Competitors worth checking out:
    • BMW M3 (No wagon available) –
      Similar power, RWD, more drama. Same sort of lunatic V8.
      R882,000
    • Mercedes Benz C63 AMG (wagon available): Old-school V8 brute. Don’t ever turn the traction control off. Laugh-a-minute motoring.
      R908,893
  • Likes:
    • Intoxicating power, high revving V8 makes you feel like you’re participating in Le Mans. Excellent gearbox with supercar-like downshifts
    • Practicality, interior space
    • Looks and design – there’s no cooler wagon on earth
  • Dislikes:
    • Fuel consumption


CO2 Emissions249 g/km
Audi RS4 Avant – Quick Specs
Engine 4.2 litre petrol V8 naturally aspirated
Transmission S-Tronic dual clutch
Power Output 331kW
Torque 430Nm
Fuel Efficiency 10.7 litres/100km (claimed)
0 – 100km/h 4.7 seconds
Top Speed 250km/h limited

 

 

Mercedes-Benz GL Class available in three variants

The new Mercedes-Benz GL Class is now available in three high performance variants, setting new standards in comfort, dynamics, safety, and elegance in the SUV world.

Mercedes-Benz GL Class offers three powerful engines

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL Class features a range of engines including the V6 350 BlueTEC, the 500 BlueEfficiency and the 63 AMG. All these engines are mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission.

The 350 six cylinder BlueTEC engine delivers 190kw of power at 360 rpm and 620Nm of torque from 1600-2400 rpm. Acceleration from 0-100km/h takes just 7.9 seconds reaching a top speed of 220km/h.

Fuel consumption is rated at 7.4 to 8.0-litres/100km with an emissions figure of 209g/km.

The V8 500 BlueEfficiency produces 320kW at 5250rpm and a torque figure of 700Nm from 1800-3500Nm. It sprints from 0-100km/h in 5.4 seconds and has a limited top speed of 250km/h.

Fuel consumption is rated at 11.4 litres/100km with CO2 emissions of 269g/100km.

The AMG 5.5 V8 biturbo produces 410kW of power and a maximum torque figure of 760Nm. Acceleration from 0-100km/h takes just 4.9 seconds, reaching an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h.

Fuel consumption is rated at 12.3 litres/100km with CO2 emissions of 288g/km.

The GL will also be offered in six driving modes: Comfort, Auto, Off-road 1 (light off-road terrain and sand), and Offroad 2 (tough off-road and climbing), Winter and Sport.

Exterior Styling Features

On the outside, the front design is dominated by the GL’s typically upright radiator grille with its central star and the clear high-quality design of the headlamps.

The Intelligent Light System headlamps across the range, give a high quality exclusive and innovative impression. The well balanced proportions of the side view, and the long wheelbase also show-off the vehicles on-road emphasis. These details further emphasise the GL-Class as a typical member of the Mercedes Benz SUV family. The daytime running lamps also in LED technology are integrated in a chrome clasp in the bumper and underneath the radiator grille. The large under-body panel also in chrome look, rounds off the self-confident appearance of the front.

Completing the appearance of the full size SUV are the two-piece LED rear lamps which use light wave technology, a large roof spoiler, the bumper with its modern ‘wing design’ and the large chromed area of the under-body panel.

Interior Styling Features

The elegant interior is fitted with high quality materials, including wood or aluminium as well as controls covered in silver-chrome and upholstery in high quality leather. The seating offers plenty of space for seven passengers in a 2-3-2 layout. As a standard feature, the third row of seats can be folded down and up electrically.

As a first for a series SUV model, Mercedes Benz is offering an optional Bang & Olufsen sound system for the GL 63 AMG.

Safety Features

Safety features for the Mercedes-Benz GL Class include adaptable two-stage airbags for the driver and front passenger, driver knee bags, side bags for both front passenger and driver and window bags for all three rows of seats.

For better visibility, the GL is equipped with Bi-Xenon headlamps with Intelligent Light System and new off-road light, adaptive Main Beam Assist or adaptive Night View Assist plus. The optional 360 degree camera is fitted with four cameras which calculate a bird’s eye view of the vehicle and its surrounding area and then relays it together with other views to the large Comand display.

Additionally there are 3 point seat belts for all seven seats. As part of the standard package, there are pyrotechnical inertia reel tensioners and constant belt force-limiters as well as electrically reversible belt reel-in tensioners at the front.

Mercedes-Benz GL Class – Price

View the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class

GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC R 966 246
GL 500 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY R1 106 859
GL 63 AMG R1 669 636

Land Rover LXV celebrates 65 years of technology

The Land Rover LXV Special Edition will debut at the original testing ground for Land Rover, where around 150 heritage vehicles will attend the celebratory event.

Land Rover LXV Special Edtion – Features

Derived from the iconic Land Rover Defender, the LXV will be available in five different body styles. It will be equipped with a 2.2-litre diesel engine and 6-speed manual transmission producing 90kW of power at 3500 rpm and 360Nm of torque at 2000 rpm.

Striking exterior features of the Land Rover LXV will include 16-inch Sawtooth alloy wheels that come in Santorini Black or Fuji White, a contrasting Corris Grey roof, grille and headlight surrounds and facia.

The interior will feature exclusive full leather seats with LXV embossed front headrests and unique orange contrast stitching on the seats. The steering wheel and centre cubby compartment complement exterior LXV decals, with an optional union flag decal that can be located on the rear of the vehicle.

Celebrating 65 years of proud heritage

The celebratory event will take place at Packington Estate which was the original testing ground for the original 1947-48 Land Rover prototypes through to the Range Rover development vehicles of the late 1960’s and 70’s.

According to Land Rover, the desire to create a vehicle that will tackle any terrain has been at the forefront of the brand since the foundations were first sketched by automotive and aeronautical engineer Maurice Wilks.

Global Brand Director John Edwards said “Land Rover is celebrating proud heritage. It is in fact a dual celebration, as March saw Land Rover deliver the strongest ever monthly and quarterly sales performance in its history.”

The 150 heritage vehicles attending the event will showcase key milestones in Land Rover’s 65-year history. They will also show some 4×4 world firsts such as anti-lock brakes, adjustable air suspension, Electronic Traction control, Hill Descent Control, Terrain Response and Stop/Start technologies.

Edwards added “Since 1948, every component in our vehicles has been designed and engineered with intent and Land Rover continues to this day, to build the world’s most capable all-purpose vehicles. A blend of refinement, performance and unmatched all-terrain capability make Land Rover vehicles distinctive and unique, ready to tackle the world’s most challenging and inhospitable terrain.”

“The all-new Range Rover and Range Rover Sport are the result of unprecedented investment in technology, in engineering and in our manufacturing facilities to produce the world’s first SUVs with a lightweight aluminium body structure. Investing in innovation has always been the lifeblood of Land Rover and we will continue to develop innovative new technology and sustainable motoring solutions for the future, whilst retaining the class-leading and legendary breadth of capability that Land Rover’s heritage is built upon.”

Toyota Me.We Concept car revealed

The Toyota Me.We Concept car was created together with designer Jean-Marie Massaud to create the ‘anti-crisis’ vehicle  targeted at contemporary human, economic and environmental issues.

The mechanics behind the Toyota Me.We Concept

The Toyota Me.We Concept is electric powered, using the same in-wheel motors as the Toyota i-Road, with batteries located under the floor. This means the concept can be operated in two or four-wheel drive and can tackle rougher terrain without the weight penalty of a 4×4 transmission system.

Massaud and Toyota defined three primary aims for the concept; Pertinence, Synthesis and Modernity and this resulted in a car that reflects a quest for change in personal mobility.

Distinctive design features

The Toyota Me.We concept has a tubular aluminium structure covered in recyclable polypropylene body panels which weigh 14kg each. The overall weight of the car is 750kg which is 20 percent lighter than a regular steel supermini.

Inside, the Toyota Me.We is fitted with Bamboo floors for attractive designing and easy cleaning. Minimal entertainment features include a touchscreen oriented cockpit, a screen above the steering wheel that displays vehicle speed, battery charge, journey information and navigation instructions.

The heating and air conditioning are delivered by a low-energy air pump and electric seat heaters to minimise power consumption. To achieve a cabriolet-like open air feel, the windows and windscreen can be opened.

Cabin space is devoted to occupants, so luggage can be carried on the roof beneath a fold-out, weatherproof neoprene cover. The rear bench seat is mounted on the roof rails and can be stored under the front seats when not in use. It can also be removed to create a load compartment area just like in a van.

New Honda CR-Z now available in South Africa

Honda first unveiled the updated CR-Z hybrid hatchback at the Paris Motor Show with improved performance and fuel efficiency. In its updated version, the powerful new Honda CR-Z features desirable combinations of style, performance and driving pleasure.

New Honda CR-Z offers higher levels of enjoyment

Engine Capability

The new Honda CR-Z utilises a 1.5-litre petrol engine with Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (i-VTEC) that receives additional power from the Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system’s DC brushless electric motor.

The IMA hybrid drivetrain combines the petrol engine to an electric motor and a battery pack. Together, these produce a total power output of 101kW and a torque figure of 190NM, with acceleration from 0-100km/h taking just 9 seconds.

Combined fuel consumption is rated at 5.2-litres/100km, with CO2 emissions of 124g/km.

Enhanced Design Features

The new Honda CR-Z features a host of subtle updates to the exterior styling and the interior execution. These include a new front bumper, a revised grille and a panoramic glass sunroof. Also, Honda’s sculpted wheel arches are fitted with new 17-inch-alloy wheels with a striking design that emphasizes the athletic character of the car. In addition, the CR-Z will be available in a new colour which is Premium Northern Lights Violet Pearl. The rear features a new and more aerodynamic diffuser.

Inside the cabin is a new interior colour scheme, leather fittings for the sculpted bucket seats and the door panel inserts which create a smart and sporty ambience. The door panel casings allow for extra storage space, while the cabin lighting makes use of LEDs. Standard features include Bluetooth, heated seats, rain sensing wipers and auto headlights.

“The 2013 Honda CR-Z further underscores Honda’s strength and innovation in the burgeoning hybrid car market,” says Graham Eagle, director of HSAF. “The additional output places even greater emphasis on the sporty hybrid’s dynamic prowess, with its impressively low emissions levels. “

In addition the keener styling and upgraded interior contribute to hybrid motoring package that is both compelling and entertaining to drive – proof that eco-friendly cars can be exciting and satisfying too,” Eagle adds.

New Honda CR-Z – Price

View the 2013 Honda CR-Z

Honda CR-Z – R332 800

The New Honda CR-Z will be available with a three-year/100 000 km warranty, a five-year/90 000 km service plan and a one-year AA roadside assistance package. Services are at 15 000 km intervals.

Nissan Qashqai range gets four limited edition models

Nissan has announced the introduction of four limited edition models to the current Qashqai range. The new limited edition Nissan Qashqai models feature premium enhancements to the already popular styling and specifications and also create a sense of individuality for buyers.

Appealing features for Limited Edition Nissan Qashqai models

The new derivatives include the Qashqai 1.6 Acenta Limited Edition, 1.5 dCi Acenta Limited Edition, 1.5 dCi Acenta Limited Edition with glassroof and the new Qashqai 2.0 Acenta Limited Edition with glassroof.

Building on the current strengths, the limited edition models will add trendy and premium interior and exterior enhancements to the Qashqai range.

Some changes on the Qashqai Limited Edition models will include unique 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, gloss black roof rails, matching gloss black mirror caps, and privacy glass. Two of the top models will feature a luxurious panoramic glass roof.

Inside the cabin, changes will include a combination of leather and cloth seats with accented white stitching. The door handles and gear lever surround are finished in a gloss black finish. The Limited Edition models will also be available in Pearl White metallic paint.

According to Nissan, the limited edition models will be available for a limited production run of 12 months.

Nissan Qashqai Limited Edition Model – Price

View the Limited edition Qashqai

1.6 Acenta Limited edition R278 900
1.5 dCi Acenta Limited Edition R294 900
1.5 dCi Acenta Limited Edition with glassroof R298 900
2.0 Acenta Limited Edition with glassroof R321 900

 

New Honda CR-V Review

Tidy, sensible, quiet and relatively good value. Nothing exciting, but nothing wrong with the new Honda CR-V  either.

New Honda CR-V Review by John Beale

Now in its third generation, the new Honda CR-V joined the soft-roader SUV market end of last year to compete head on against the Kia Sportage, Nissan Xtrail and now new Toyota Rav4. Generally if you were shopping in this market you’d be looking for something practical, with a enough space family and their bags, and hope it doesn’t guzzle between the pumps.

Looks

A lot more daring in the looks department than the previous generation, moving away from rounded edges to sharper angles and is lowered to give more of a car like profile without compromising on space. Where I think the view from the front is a lot more exciting, the three-quarter, or view from the rear is like something out of Hitchhikers guide to the galaxy. The bottom of the range 2-litre Comfort still comes with daytime running lights and 17 inch alloy wheels, that look a bit small in the arches.

New Honda CR-V engine

The 2-litre 4-cylinder i-VTEC petrol is the entry level unit, and my initial concerns on these naturally aspirated 2-litre units in what can be a heavy SUV body, means struggling along at the reef. A total of 114kW and 192NM of torque means the unit isn’t terribly underpowered in town, but at reef altitudes, even with the 6-speed manual gearbox, it struggles to keep speeds up and downhill on the highways. You really have to push the engine into revs where it starts to feel rather uncomfortable for it to get moving.

Fuel consumption kept steady at around 10l/100km throughout, and was a mix of highway and city driving. Follow the ECON suggestions and you’ll be puttering along changing gear all to frequently to keep speed up. I would definitely opt for the 2.4 if you are set on petrol.

That said, the prominent ‘ECON’ theme, that includes dynamic lighting (that changes from green to white to show if you’re driving efficiently or not) and gear change indicator that tries to keep consumption down, is a nice touch. Gear changes through the 6 speed manual shifter that sits perfectly high up on the dash were smooth, but the clutch takes very late and slight over-revving from the engine after changes, was fairly irritating, mainly because I’m not over 55-years of age.

The interior

The interior surprised with quality soft touch materials, specification and a much ‘bigger car’ feel. It is leaps and bounds ahead of the Koreans and Nissan. You feel a lot more cocooned in the Honda than any of the competition. There is enough head and legroom for 1.8m adults in the rear seats even with full sized adults in the front. Rear cargo space is not as big as the Nissan Xtrail, especially in height, but the simple release lever for folding the 60/40 split rear seats down made it all to easy to move larger items around, and this should count in good stead for what practicality the new Honda CR-V has to offer.

Standard items that stood out were dual zone climate control, cruise control MP3/Aux/Bluetooth. Inside the new Honda CR-V is a lovely place to be, with large expanse of dash, but some of the buttons are SO large that it’s hard not to think they designed them with an older market in mind. This contradicts the overly complicated steering wheel controls, which my mother would definitely not be able to master.

The new Honda CR-V ride and safety

The new Honda CR-V Comfort rides on rubber with fat sidewalls, which bring with it a more comfortable ride, but less focused handling. The CR-V floats over the bumps in the road and steering communicates well, lightening up nicely when parking. There’s very little to complain about in the ride and handling. Even the bottom of the range Comfort comes standard with ABS, EBD (Electronic Brake Distribution), EBA (Electronic Brake Assist), Vehicle Stability Control and Hill Start assist. Dual Zone (Dual stage), driver and passenger, front curtain and side airbags are standard. There is however no park distance control which would be a nice addition when reverse parking.

New Honda CR-V – Conclusion

A solid, quiet and comfortable ride meets a functional interior at a very good price. Don’t expect miracles in performance or specification, but expect relaxed, quiet and comfortable drive with enough space to boot. Sensible indeed, and it’s a Honda, so it’ll last longer than most their drivers do.

New Honda CR-V – Price

Honda CR-V – R306, 800 (Comfort FWD 2-litre Manual)

  • Service plan: Standard 5yr/90 000km
  • View the Honda CR-V: New / Used
  • Competitors worth checking out:

Isuzu KB Trailview perfect for off-roading

After successfully launching the 6th generation Isuzu KB to the South African market, General Motors South Africa has come back with the launch of the innovative and interactive Trailview.

The Isuzu KB Trailview integrates the new KB’s legendary off-road capabilities with technological innovation, providing a whole new approach to off-road enthusiasts.

The technology behind the Isuzu KB Trailview

The Isuzu KB Trailview adapts the same concept as Google’s Streetview, which allows online map users the ability to preview a destination or intersection while browsing online maps. With a specialised 360-degree camera fitted on the KB, users can fully enjoy an interactive view of each trail. When logging into the Isuzu KB Trailview site, they will be able to view their preferred off-road trail even before they get there.

“We knew when developing the all-new KB that its off-road reputation would continue and with the Trailview concept allowing KB owners as well as any other 4×4 owners and enthusiasts the opportunity to see and almost feel the different trails before even starting the car, the new KB is definitely a product of the times.” said Isuzu Brand Manager, Mlungisi Nonkonyana

He added “Modern technology, clever thinking and a smart design are all attributes of both the new Isuzu KB and the Trailview concept, linking the two perfectly. The creators of the Trailview concept set out to provide users with a rich visual experience which allows them to fully immerse themselves into each trail and I think they have achieved exactly that.”

Legendary reputation for off-road capability

The innovative new Isuzu KB Trailview was built to showcase the capabilities of the Isuzu KB in the South African market. The site creates an off-road Street View experience through one of four trails mapped by driving a KB. As with the five generations of the model, the all-new KB continues Isuzu’s distinguished reputation for off-road capability, versatility and reliability.

Seven of the new KB models feature a 4×4 drivetrain, and with the choice of petrol or diesel engines to match, the new KB offers buyers a host of industrious options. These include the KB 240 4×4 Fleetside, the practical KB 300 TEQ 4×4 Extended Cab LX or the lifestyle-oriented KB 250 D-TEQ Double Cab 4×4 LE.

Any of the chosen 4×4 KB’s will come in the form of the following driver-selectable drive mode: 2-Hi, 4-Hi and 4-Lo, a rear differential lock, shift-on-the-fly up to 100 km/h depending on the model. With this technology, the steepest climbs can be tackled, even critical angles where generous ground clearance and minimal overhangs can be overcome with ease and confidence.

New Chevrolet Trailblazer Review

Finally, some competition for the Fortuner comes in the form of the new Chevrolet Trailblazer! Well, this because the Ford Everest was a bit of a badly put together mess, and the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport is, well, for people who love Mitsubishi.

New Chevrolet Trailblazer reviewed by John Beale

The Trailblazer’s engine

Sporting a 2.8litre Duramax 4cylinder turbo diesel that pushes out a class leading 132kW and 440NM, the high spec top of the range LTZ comes out punching. With only 5 gears, there’s ample torque that pulls hard through each gear, and in gear acceleration is good considering the weight and size of the Trailblazer. I would have liked to see a 6th gear, as it sits quite high up in the revs at highway speeds. Clutch action is quite springy (could just be the test unit) and the brakes were very spongy, but could be due to this being a test unit that has seen better days. The Duramax diesel is also a lot noisier than the competitor units, and gear lever rattles like an old Isuzu bakkie, which detracts a bit.

Off-road ability

Some limited off-road (not 4×4) routes saw the new Chevrolet Trailblazer get dirty and it performed well. Low-end torque made crawling over obstacles easy with no wheelspin, but the running boards scratched easily. Shortest front and rear overhangs in class will be a blessing when the going gets tough. A simple turn knob engages 4wheel drive (High and Low), but the limited slip differential is the key differentiator between the Trailblazer and Fortuner and would put some hard core 4×4 enthusiasts off the Blazer. With my limited off-road stint, I found very little to fault on the Trailblazer in the rough, as it performed incredibly well, but must say the Toyota does feel lighter on its feet and a bit more solid through the steering. A little gripe was that the parking sensors, which couldn’t switch out, kept going off on every blade of grass / rock / bush off road.

The Body-On-Frame architecture of the Trailblazer meant that it’s a usual shake and scuttle on the ride in town, but wasn’t unbearable, and wafted along comfortably. What was noticeable was how the heavy the Trailblazer felt in town, especially with the spongy brakes, and the steering which felt a bit vague and loose, which could explain the vibrations felt off-road.

Interior

A unique interior befits the new Chevrolet Trailblazer, with a very special circular climate control dial. At first I hated it, but it grew on me and quickly made a lot of sense with its large digital display. Plastics are hard but most controls have a quality feel to them. Controls on the steering wheel for the rather impressive 8 speaker sound system (Aux, USB & CD), and on-board computer are standard. There are numerous storage spaces in the Trailblazer which was genuinely useful, and trumped the Fortuner for convenience. Some simple technology was however missing (Auto lights and wipers) but electric leather seats were comfortable, even though the light beige showed heavy signs of wear.

Being well aware that this was an overused test unit, it did show heavy signs of wear and tear on the interior, which could be a forbearer to future owners. On the safety front, the LTZ features ABS with EBD, stability control and full front, side and curtain airbags all the way to row 3 of the seating. Speaking of, the 3rd row of seats were easy to set up, and 2nd row entry was also a breeze to flip over, easier than the Fortuner. That said, 3rd row leg room is tighter, but cubholders and storage space in the 3rd row is a nice touch. A cover for the luggage space when the 3rd row of seating is folded flat into the floor, is also great. A rear-view camera would be a helpful addition to the vehicle that is large to park.

New Chevrolet Trailblazer conclusion

What is possibly the closest competition the Fortuner has seen yet, the Trailblazer is a solid competitor. Those looking for an alternative with substantially more towing ability (2950kgs), unique looks and more torque will find the Trailblazer the winner at the same price. Reliability and durability is still to be seen but due to the solid link to Isuzu I doubt we’ll have issues on the mechanics. Looking for a 7 seater 4×4 SUV – this has to be on your list.

New Chevrolet Trailblazer – Price

Chevrolet Trailblazer 2.8 LTZ 4×4 price: 132kW/470NM – R476 900

 

  • Warranty and service: 5yr/90 000km service plan & 15 000 km service intervals.
  • View the Chevrolet Trailblazer: New / Used
  • Competitors worth checking out:

New Ford Transit Custom launched in SA

The new Ford Transit Custom has been launched in SA and joins the one-tonne van market, offering businesses an unmatched combination of style, driver appeal and functionality.

“The Transit Custom is a welcome introduction to the South African market,” said Gavin Golightly, Marketing Manager, Ford South Africa. “This is a stylish, modern van that customers will be proud to have in their driveway. At the same time it’s up for the tasks required by this segment.”

New Ford Transit Custom ticks all the boxes

Engine Capability

The 2.2-litre Duratorq TDCi engine will be offered in three variations. A 74kW model that offers 310Nm of torque at 1300 rpm, the 92kW version offering 350Nm at 1450rpm, and a high-powered 114kW version with 385Nm of torque at 1 600rpm.

All three units will have differing fuel consumptions rating at less than 7.3l/100km on a combined cycle run while emitting around 192g/km CO2. The high-powered 114kW model is the most fuel efficient of the range with 6.6l/100km and 174g/km CO2 emissions.

Exterior Styling Features

The bold new appearance of the Transit Custom embodies the same dynamic character as Ford’s kinetic design passenger cars. This signature design feature brings forth the Transit’s unique character including the bold trapezoidal grille, strong and muscular shoulder line and prominent wheel lips. The model is available in a choice of short wheelbase (SWB – overall length 4.97 metres) and long wheelbase (LWB – overall length 5.34 metres) versions.

Beneath the stylish exterior, the new Ford Transit Custom offers ample load carrying ability, including a number of innovative new loadspace features. These include an optimised bulkhead and loadspace design, deployable integrated roof rack system, repositioned tie-down hooks and fixing points, and an easy clean load floor liner.

Interior Styling Features

The interior of the new Ford Transit Custom was designed with the driver in mind, advanced technologies and outstanding driving dynamics. The modern van features a driver focused cockpit with a sculpted instrument panel which combines stylish looks with smart stowage solutions for bottles, phones and papers. Driver comfort is significantly enhanced through a highly adjustable driving position, which features a steering column adjustable for reach and rake.

The Transit Custom is also equipped with a range of driver assistance technologies which include the Ford SYNC voice activated, in-car connectivity system, Lane Keeping Alert, Driver Alert, Auto High Beam and Hill Launch Assist.

New Ford Transit Custom – Price

View the new Ford Transit

Transit 2.2 TDCi Ambiente Low SWB FWD 6MT From R265 526
Transit 2.2 TDCi Ambiente Hi SWB FWD 6VMT6 From R268 772
Transit 2.2 TDCi Ambiente Low LWB FWD 6MT From R271 667
Transit 2.2 TDCi Ambiente Hi LWB FWD 6MT From R278 421
Transit 2.2 TDCi Sport SWB FWD 6MT From R319 825

The new Ford Transit Custom will be available with a 4-year/120 000km comprehensive warranty. Service intervals are every 15 000km with a Service Plan available as a dealer option.