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.

Nissan NP200 Review

Heaps of torque, biggest load-bed that carries the most weight, but interior makes you want to rather sit with the load at the back. Meet the Nissan NP200…

Nissan NP200 bakkie review by John Beale

The half-ton bakkie market in South Africa is a big earner. The Opel Corsa bakkie (now Chevrolet Utility) has been the top selling half-ton bakkie for many years, but not resting on their laurels, Nissan entered the market a few years back with the locally produced NP200, and the fleet manager for ADT must have rejoiced. Now, Nissan proudly takes just under 50% of the half-ton market. It’s a tough battle between the Chev Ute and the NP200, as Ford has left the scene.

Let me be frank, the top range models, like the one featured here, are not the volume pushers, but rather appeal to first time car buyers or those needing a load-bed, but not the bigger bakkie capacity. Imagine you’d want to put your bike on the back and head out to Northern Farms.

Exterior

With additional body coloured bumpers and 15 inch alloy rims, the high spec NP200 is differentiated from the ADT fleet vehicles. Looks don’t offend (not the point in this segment), but it’s far less controversial than the Chevy Ute, which pushed many Corsa Bakkie owners to drink when they saw the new model.

Nissan NP200 performance

A 1.5litre produces 63kW and a healthy 200NM at 1900RPM, and you can feel the grunt in this very light body. With a claimed fuel consumption of 5.3l/100km you’ll also easily get over 600km out of a tank. The unit is gutsy and does the vehicle justice with good torque low down in the rev range. Drive, as expected, is typical bakkie fare, stiff and bumpy. Brakes are equipped with ABS and EBD and dual airbags are standard on the High spec. Steering is power assisted and communicates well. The mechanics of the Nissan NP200 are solid.

Interior

The interior however, is just not what you’d expect when paying close to R200 000 for a vehicle. A basic carbon copy of the Renault Sandero, plastic adorns the cabin, and even though the driver’s seat is height adjustable, the back of the cloth seat is too short for my 6-foot frame. The steering wheel sits facing high up like a plate and the plastic covering it is slippery. Behind the seats are 300-litres of luggage capacity, which you’re going to need to hide anything worth its salt in weight from prying eyes. There is a very low spec sound system with Aux input, air-conditioning, fog lamps, immobilizer, central locking, electric windows and mirrors but that’s where it all ends. The plastics look and feel cheap, which is acceptable for any of the models but this one pitched at private leisure owners. The Chev Ute surpasses on the interior, but only just. This is where recycled plastic goes to die.

Where the Nissan NP200 does excel is in the load bed, here covered with tonneau cover, is the largest in segment (1807mm), and has class-leading carrying ability of 800kgs! The Corsa Ute 1.3 Diesel Sport does with 1680mm length and 703kgs. Rubberised load-bed with 4 hooks on the load-bed to tie down items is standard.

Nissan NP200 – Conclusion

Where the Nissan NP200 excels in load carrying capacity and engine, it falls flat on interior. The Chevrolet picks up the game on looks, interior and spec, but can’t match on the carrying capacity or engine. I would personally go for the Corsa Ute Sport, but if the capacity is an issue it would logically have to be the Nissan, and you’d grin and bear the horrid interior.

Nissan NP200 – Price

Nissan NP200 1.5dCI High (63kW/200Nm) -R196 500

  • Warranty/service: 6yr/150 000km warranty, service plan can be bolted on.
  • View the Nissan NP200 bakkie: New / Used
  • Competitors worth checking out:

Honda CR-V 2.4 Executive AT Review

The Honda CR-V has been around since 1995 and been a serious success story for the Japanese brand. The fourth generation of this popular family soft-roader has arrived in the South African car market and one has to wonder how Honda has improved an already award-winning package.

Honda CR-V 2.4 Review by David Taylor

Honda expands the CR-V

The first thing I noticed about the new Honda CR-V is it looks a little bigger than its predecessor, especially at the rear. The front receives a complete makeover and now features a modern-looking bumper complete with LED daytime running lights. While it may not physically be larger, the new Honda CR-V runs on a redesigned chassis which means the cabin space can be better used. The boot for instance, is larger than before and can be expanded by flicking the handles on either side of the boot’s interior. The rear seats fold away automatically and the boot looks big enough to sleep two in comfort.

Speaking of cabin space, the Honda CR-V is as big and as comfortable as they come. I was in the Executive derivative and this version comes supremely well-equipped in terms of tech as well as feeling quite luxurious and well-built. The car comes with active cornering lights, rear parking camera, memory seats which are heated, multi information display, cruise control, climate control, Bluetooth hands-free phone pairing, a rather potent sound system with subwoofer as well as USB/Aux input in the centre armrest. In fact, the only thing missing from the Honda CR-V is satellite navigation. An added plus is the pairing for your phone and USB music input is super easy and takes just a few minutes to set up.

All-wheel drive and a 2.4-litre engine

The Honda CR-V features an electronically-controlled four-wheel drive system. In normal conditions the vehicle drives through the front wheels, but as soon as they lose grip, power is sent to the rear wheels to push it along. The car keeps checking the road at all times, which ensures fuel economy is kept down.

Speaking of fuel economy and performance, the CR-V’s 2.4-litre engine pushes out 140kW and 220Nm. Honda claims the CR-V will drink just 8.7L/100km, but in reality a 1.6 ton SUV driving in an urban environment will see the fuel consumption shoot up. Despite my gentle driving tactics, the CR-V sat around the 10L/100km which is what I was expecting.

How does it drive?

The Honda CR-V has its strength with on-road manners. Thanks to a smooth-shifting five-speed automatic gearbox, it just feels so refined especially when driven in a relaxed manner. Put your foot down and the Honda CR-V leaps forward with a surprising surge. Even though there are steering wheel paddles, I’d leave them alone and let the vehicle do its own gear changes.

One thing you’ll also notice about the Honda CR-V is it encourages you to drive responsibly though the use of two light strips surrounding the speedo. Drive gently and they glow green. Put your foot flat and the lights go off. While I’m on the subject of eco, there’s an eco-mode which further boosts fuel consumption.

I took the Honda CR-V onto a particular muddy section of dirt road and despite my best efforts, couldn’t get it stuck. Thanks to the clever all-wheel drive, it refused to get lodged in the brown stuff and felt quite stable when pushing hard on some loose gravel. It may be able to do mild offroading, but beware, there’s no low-range and no lockable diff if you intend to really rough it. Still, for something which ticks all boxes to be classed a ‘mommy car’, the Honda CR-V is better than most.

Honda CR-V – Conclusion

The fourth generation of the CR-V continues the tradition of Honda’s popular soft-roader. It’s superb on the tar and boasts extreme levels of comfort while cruising. Few cars are this comfortable while driving on the national road and the all-wheel drive provides reassurance when you’re on slippery terrain. That said, the Honda CR-V isn’t going to be able to take you across sand dunes, but it’s a brilliant all-rounder never the less. It scores highly in my opinion due to the upmarket feel, levels of practicality and the fact that it feels like you’re in your favourite lounge chair when driving.

Honda CR-V – Price

Honda CR-V 2.4 Executive – R444 900

  • Why you should: One of the most comfortable vehicles ever, loads of spec, all-wheel drive assurance, practicality galore.
  • Why you shouldn’t: R450k is a lot of money for a Honda, rivals cost significantly less, petrol engine isn’t the most thrifty (there’s an excellent 2.2-litre diesel)
  • It would be better if: I can’t help feeling a six-speed auto would help consumption, the driving position suited really tall people.
  • View the Honda CR-V: New / Used
  • Competitors worth checking out: Hyundai IX35, Kia Sportage, Nissan X-Trail, Subaru Forester, Volkswagen Tiguan.

Lamborghini Aventador LP 720-4 50 celebrates anniversary

In celebration of its 50th anniversary, the Lamborghini Aventador LP 720-4 50 was presented at the Shanghai Motor Show. The model is fitted with exclusive equipment and technology, and is upholstered with a variety of fresh and exciting colours.

Lamborghini Aventador LP 720-4 50 – Specifications and Features

Engine Capability

The limited edition Lamborghini Aventador LP 720-4 50 is powered by a 6.5-litre V12 engine that develops 529 kW of power and is connected to an ISR transmission which enables the model to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 2.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 350 km/h.

Exterior and Interior Design Features

The special edition Lamborghini Aventador LP 720-4 50 is designed with a two-tone exterior and with exclusive Giallo Maggio paint that is contrasted by matte black trim and gloss black wheels. The rear and front fascias have been further optimised to improve aerodynamics, and are also clothed in a two-tone Giallo Maggio and matte black design. This is to emphasize the Aventador’s streamlined shape. The front air intakes and the aerodynamic splitter have been enlarged and extended, with small flaps set into the sides.

The inside is upholstered in specifically developed fine, natural, and semi-aniline leather. The colours offered in the interior are all inspired by Lamborghini’s home in the Italian region of Emilia-Romagna.

As with all Lamborghini models built in 2013, the Aventador LP 720-4 50 will feature the 50th anniversary emblem in the cockpit, produced in a carbon-fibre material patented by Lamborghini.

Production is limited to a 100 models.

Peugeot 208 1.2 VTI Active Review

Peugeot’s all-new 208 shows off the company’s new philosophy of a streamlined, downsized and affordable range.

Peugeot 208 1.2 VTI Active reviewed by David Taylor

We’re all well-aware the French car making-trio Peugeot, Citroen and Renault aren’t having the best of luck financially especially in the European market. Peugeot especially relies on sales of its smaller city cars and this is why the Peugeot 208 has to be a very good offering. The French at Peugeot are pitching their 208 directly into one of the most hotly-contested markets in South Africa, the B-segment.

The exterior

From first impressions, the Peugeot 208 has a distinct girly look about it – a fact confirmed by the number of girls who admired the car. It’s not a problem at all and it follows on from the classic 206 and 207. These cars are meant to be fashionable runabouts, which are designed to navigate the narrow, cobbled backstreets of a Parisian suburb, which brings me to my next point. Upon delivery I was quite surprised at how small the Peugeot 208 is. A quick glance online at one of the many car data websites confirmed the new version is 7cm shorter than the 207.

The Peugeot 208 interior

Being a taller than usual guy, I was a little worried I wouldn’t fit. Thankfully, I’m glad I was wrong and the new Peugeot 208 is actually quite spacious inside. Even with three passengers, at no point did I feel cramped. Massive kudos to Peugeot for accomplishing this near-impossible task! Then I worked out that the boot space must have been compromised as a result of the interior spaciousness, and again I was wrong. The Peugeot 208 features a boot, which can hold a useful 331L worth of stuff.

Performance

I was driving the 1.2 VTI Active version which is powered by a naturally-aspirated 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine with 60kW and 118Nm. It may sound small and slow, but when you consider the 208 tips the scales at 970-odd kg, it suddenly seems okay. The added bonus of this small engine is you don’t get nailed at the fuel pump. Peugeot claims a combined figure of 4.5L/100km and I was seeing 5.9L/100km which I blame on the fun, zesty nature and addictive sound. For those who don’t know, a three-cylinder motor has a delicious little growl to it. Some have even suggested it sounds like a Porsche 911…

Performance is okay. It’s not the fastest little thing around, nor does it intend to be. If you want a fast Peugeot, the 208 GTI is on its way to our shores in the near future. I discovered the Peugeot 208 suddenly becomes quite fun especially in town where it thinks it’s a go-kart. I blame the go-kart tendencies on the smaller than usual steering wheel. It is rather good fun, especially when you’re charging through traffic circles and best of all, you can push hard and fuel consumption doesn’t become unreasonable. Drive like this in a turbocharged hot hatch and the consumption figure almost doubles.

Features

This particular Active model has quite a few comfort features, which give it a bit of an edge over the competition. There’s an LCD screen which acts as an interface for the radio, USB, Bluetooth phone controls; there are steering wheel-mounted controls for cruise control and radio, folding mirrors, trip computer and a number of safety features. The audio system is a little complicated, but when you take the time to learn how it works, it’s rather smart. You may be buying a budget car, but that’s no excuse not to have all the safety features like four airbags and ABS.

The Peugeot 208 1.2 – Conclusion

As good as the specification level and space inside the Peugeot 208 is, this Peugeot is going up against some tough competition from established rivals. Yes, it is good, but there are products which will be chosen purely on badge preference and after-sales service. Despite the hard work done here by the French, the old curse of servicing and resale will haunt them, which is a shame as the list price includes a 3-year/100 000km warranty and a 5-year/60 000km service plan. That said, the Peugeot 208 offers a stylish, comfortable alternative to the masses and for me, the fact you’re driving something which has a personality is what makes this little car rather good.

Peugeot 208 – Price

Peugeot 208 1.2 VTI Active – R169 900

  • Why you should: fun to drive, bursting with character, zippy engine, light on fuel, good specification.
  • Why you shouldn’t: Feminine design, stiff competition in this segment, French resale and servicing curse may hurt in the long run.
  • It would be better if: the driving position was altered slightly. Despite my best efforts the top of the steering wheel blocks the digital speedometer. It should be perfect if you’re not 6ft tall!
  • View the Peugeot 208: New / Used
  • Competitors worth checking out: Toyota Yaris, Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Polo, Renault Clio, Kia Rio, Hyundai i20, Chevrolet Sonic, Mazda2, Opel Corsa, Citroen C3.

.

Toyota Fortuner 2.5D Automatic Review

A unique combination of 7 seats, automatic gearbox, off-road ability and ground clearance at this price make the Toyota Fortuner an appealing buy for those who don’t care for ride comfort.

Toyota Fortuner 2.5D Automatic review by John Beale

I bet you had no idea that the Toyota Fortuner is still the best selling privately owned vehicle in SA according to Naamsa. What is basically a Hilux with a closed loadbed and extra seats, is one of the most successful vehicles from Toyota South Africa to date. December 2012 saw the entry-level 2.5 Diesel being added to the range at R357 000, making the range even more appealing to cost conscious buyers.

Exterior and interior features

Looks do not differ much from the more expensive variants, and I for one like the dual spoke rims, but cannot say I’m a fan of the aftermarket looking lights on the update. The interior is trimmed down to the bare minimum, with cloth (suade) seats, manual aircon but thank goodness, electric windows all round. The standard Cressida clock and on-board computer from 1996 is there, as well as Aux / USB ports in dash. There’s ample space for bottles / cups and a good size centre-console under armrest as well. It’s typical Toyota quality, with harder cream colour plastics, but everything feels solid and will appeal to those that have owned a Toyota.

Families will enjoy the versatility of the Toyota Fortuner, even this model sports 7 seats, the 2nd row folds and rolls forward with the 3rd row folding down from the roof. Getting the 3rd row down does require a bit of effort, but it’s fairly easy to figure out. The 2nd row of seats then folds forward for access, and also has the ability to roll forward to give the 3rd row even more leg space, something the Trailblazer doesn’t offer. Full separate airconditioning for rear passengers is also a welcome addition.

 Safety features

Keeping the family safe is ABS, EBD as well as Vehicle Stability Control and driver and passenger airbags. I was however surprised that there were no curtain or side airbags, which was standard on the Trailblazer.

The drive and handling

Drive is ok, thanks to fat rubber on the 17inch rims, but the Hilux chassis does still scuttle and shake in town. Sitting on a raised chassis, it doesn’t roll as much as I thought it would in corners. It is however a comfortable ride on dirt roads where it soaks up anything in its path. The steering and brakes communicate well (drum brakes rear) and get the job done.

Performance

The 2.5diesel puts out the same amount of torque (343Nm) as the more powerful 3D-4D but the lack in power (106kW) can be felt when pulling away, with quite a bit of turbo lag especially when mated with the 4 speed auto. That said, it is actually a great combo, with little effort required to get around town and on the highway, albeit not quickly. You do have to judge overtaking a little carefully as the torque and power band is slim, but for a lifestyle drive, this is all that you really need if you’re not really going serious off-roading. (Rear Diff lock is standard). On long distance I eventually got the claimed 10km/l, but city driving knocked that 7km/l. (Note KM/L)

The Toyota Fortuner conclusion

As an entry level lifestyle offering, with generous amount of space, the opportunity to seat 7 and go off-road until it gets pretty damn tough is appealing at this price. You probably don’t need the 4×4 D-4D, so just get this one and you’ll be saving a good R100K. The interior is a bit bare bones, it’s a mission to park without sensors, cruise control would be really nice Toyota, and no woman would be able to change a flat tyre …BUT … it’s an appealing offering to get into the range if you require the off-road ability, ground clearance, space and seating. I would also recommend the automatic, as it makes for a lot more relaxed drive.

Toyota Fortuner – Price

Toyota Fortuner 2.5D-4D Auto 106kW/343NM – R357 000

5yr/90 000km service plan is standard.

  • View the Toyota Fortuner: New / Used
  • Competitors worth checking out:
      • (Note there is no competition that has an Auto Box)
      • Chevrolet Trailblazer 2,5 LT 4×2 – 110kW/350NM – R364 000 (Manual)
        Ford Everest 3,0TDCI 4×2 XLT – 115kW/380NM – R377 000 (Manual)