The Lexus NX range in South Africa has launched a new plug-in hybrid derivative, named the NX 450h+ F Sport. Here’s how much this fresh plug-in flagship costs…
The Lexus NX line-up in South Africa now includes a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) derivative, with the freshly added NX 450h+ F Sport slotting in at the summit of the range.
Priced from R1 336 200, the NX 450h+ F Sport combines a 2.5-litre petrol engine and a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with a pair of electric motors (one front and one rear) and an 18.1 kWh battery pack. This PHEV set-up generates total system power of 227 kW, while Lexus opts not to list a combined peak torque figure (though it’s worth noting the 4-cylinder engine alone offers 227 Nm).
Lexus claims the NX 450h+ has an all-electric range of about 66 km.
According to the Japanese firm, the all-wheel-drive NX 450h+ can travel up to 66.5 km on electricity alone, while the claimed combined fuel economy figure is as low as 1.3 L/100 km (with a corresponding CO2 emissions figure of just 29 g/km). Top speed is listed as 200 kph, while the 0-100 kph sprint is completed in a claimed 6.3 seconds.
The NX 450h+ is offered exclusively in F Sport guise, which adds items such as a piano-black grille design, aggressively styled bumpers (fore and aft), gloss-black 20-inch alloy wheels (wrapped in 235/50 R20 tyres), sports seats, alloy pedals and plenty of “F Sport” badges, inside and out.
Like other F Sport models, the NX 450h+ rides on 20-inch alloys.
Other standard features include a powered (and handsfree) tailgate, a tilt-and-slide moonroof, a digital rear-view mirror, a panoramic-view monitor, wireless smartphone charging, adaptive cruise control, a head-up display, plenty of driver-assistance safety features and LED headlights with adaptive high beams.
In terms of exterior paint colours, the Lexus NX 450h+ is available in White Nova, Sonic Titanium and Sonic Chrome as standard, while Black, Graphite Black, Madder Red, Sonic Copper, Terrane Khaki, Poseidon Blue and Celestial Blue are offered on a customer order only basis. Interior trim options include Black, White, Flare Red and Hazel.
Various colour options are available for the cabin.
Over the opening 5 months of 2024, the NX was the best-selling Lexus nameplate in South Africa, with 153 units registered. That put it far ahead of the 2nd-placed LX (77 units) and 3rd-placed ES (69 units). As a reminder, the 2nd-generation Lexus NX launched in South Africa in March 2022, with the traditional hybrid variants joining the range in May of that year. The arrival of the new PHEV variant, however, sees Toyota’s premium sub-brand expand its NX portfolio to 6 derivatives.
The NX 250 EX employs a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre petrol engine, while the NX 350h EX, NX 350h SE and NX 350h F Sport each add a traditional hybrid system to this base engine. The NX 350 F Sport, meanwhile, features a 2.4-litre turbopetrol motor.
How much does the Lexus NX 450h+ PHEV cost in SA?
Lexus NX 250 EX
R986 800
Lexus NX 350h EX
R1 029 400
Lexus NX 350h SE
R1 197 300
Lexus NX 350 F Sport
R1 224 800
Lexus NX 350 F Sport
R1 225 700
Lexus NX 450h+ F Sport PHEV
R1 336 200
The prices above include a 7-year/105 000 km warranty and a 7-service/105 000 km maintenance plan. Hybrid models furthermore benefit from an 8-year/195 000 km warranty on the battery pack.
SA new-vehicle sales in July 2024: new highs for 3 brands
South Africa’s new-vehicle market recorded a marginal year-on-year increase in sales in July 2024. Here’s your market overview, including Mzansi’s most popular brands…
Finally, some good news. In July 2024, new-vehicle sales in South Africa registered a 1.5% increase year on year to finish on 44 229 units. Though this gain – which is only the 2nd instance of year-on-year growth so far this year – is certainly marginal, Naamsa says it “could be the turning point for an improved 2nd half” of 2024.
Indeed, as many as 3 brands inside the top 10 – the Volkswagen Group, Ford and Hyundai – recorded new highs for the year. In addition, July’s performance represented a 10.4% improvement over June 2024’s effort.
Export sales, however, plummeted 33.2% to 25 461 units last month, compared with the lofty figure achieved in July 2023, with Naamsa blaming “adverse weather conditions during the month as well as declining exports to Europe, the domestic automotive industry’s top export region”.
Out of the total reported industry sales in July, Naamsa estimated that 81.1% represented registrations via the dealer channel, while a hefty 13.5% were sales to the vehicle-rental industry, 2.9% to government and 2.5% to industry corporate fleets.
Interestingly, the figures suggest it was the new passenger-vehicle market that drove overall growth in July 2024, with this segment improving 6.8% year on year to 29 934 units. Car-rental sales accounted for a considerable 17.1% of that figure, with Naamsa pointing out that “seasonal sales to the rental industry contributed to the higher sales” last month.
Meanwhile, the light-commercial vehicle segment slid 8.8% year on year to 11 554 units, perhaps thanks in part to the disappearance of the Nissan NP200 (a since-discontinued half-tonne bakkie that contributed more than 1 000 units in the same month last year).
Lebo Gaoaketse, Head of Marketing and Communication at WesBank, said the market’s growth came off the back of “marginally improving economic conditions, returning consumer and business confidence in the wake of 4 months of consistent electricity supply, and the hope of some budget relief for consumers during the 2nd half”. He added that the market’s performance in July “should be seen in 2 important contexts”.
“Firstly, July 2023 was practically the last month the South African car market was in positive growth territory, making this July’s performance relatively stronger. Secondly, July sales were a substantial 4 157 [units] higher than June, which is significantly more than the 657-unit growth year-on-year,” explained Gaoaketse.
Brandon Cohen, National Chairperson of the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA), welcomed the “positive shift in monthly retail new-vehicle sales” in July, adding that “although the increase was modest”, the overall tally of 44 229 units was “encouraging”.
“When compared to June 2024 sales, July witnessed an overall increase of 4 356 vehicles, with passenger vehicles accounting for 3 171 units. Year to date, we remain 6.3% behind the figures for 2023, but we are hopeful that the July sales mark the beginning of growth in the 2nd half of the year,” Cohan said, before conceding “we have significant ground to cover before the year’s end”.
New-vehicle sales summary for July 2024
Aggregate new-vehicle sales of 44 229 units increased by 1.5% (657 units) compared to July 2023.
New passenger-vehicle sales of 29 934 units increased by 6.8% (1 894 units) compared to July 2023.
New light-commercial vehicle sales of 11 554 units decreased by 8.8% (1 112 units) compared to July 2023.
Export sales of 25 461 units decreased by 33.2% (12 671 units) compared to July 2023.
10 best-selling automakers in SA in July 2024
Renault returned to the top 10 in July 2024.
After 3 straight months of 4-figure totals, Toyota returned to 5 figures in July 2024 with a final tally of 11 131 units – a month-on-month increase of 14.2% – and thus unsurprisingly retained 1st place. The Volkswagen Group (6 178 units), meanwhile, enjoyed its best sales month of the year so far, taking a comfortable 2nd position.
Suzuki (4 816 units) improved somewhat over its June showing but again had to settle for the final spot on the podium. Like the VW Group, 4th-placed Ford (2 901 units) put in its best effort of 2024 so far, as did Hyundai (2 699 units) in 5th. Meanwhile, Isuzu sales dipped slightly to 2 072 units in July, though the Japanese firm still retain 6th position ahead of Nissan (1 884 units) in 7th.
Chery (1 701 units) held steady in 8th place, again finishing ahead of fellow Chinese automaker GWM (1 562 units) in 9th. Finally, Renault returned to the table to snaffle 10th spot, meaning the BMW Group’s stint back in the top 10 was limited to a single month.
Kia (1 068 units) was bubbling under in 11th place, while Indian automaker Mahindra (1 007 units) also managed to crack 4 figures to finish 12th. That meant the BMW Group (994 units) fell 3 places to 13th, though still finished ahead of Stellantis (573 units) and Mercedes-Benz (with a Naamsa-estimated 555 units).
1. Toyota – 11 131 units
2. Volkswagen Group – 6 178 units
3. Suzuki – 4 816 units
4. Ford – 2 901 units
5. Hyundai – 2 699 units
6. Isuzu – 2 072 units
7. Nissan – 1 884 units
8. Chery – 1 701 units
9. GWM – 1 562 units
10. Renault – 1 210 units
Sales outlook in South Africa for rest of 2024
So, where to from here? Well, Naamsa appears positive despite 2024’s aggregate new-vehicle sales sitting 6.3% behind the corresponding year-to-date period last year (and despite “various challenges and elements of economic uncertainty”).
“Encouraging aspects for growth and increased consumer spending for the balance of the year include 4 consecutive months of no load-shedding, a stronger rand exchange rate and potentially up to 2 interest-rate cuts before year-end,” points out Naamsa, adding that automotive brands “continue to launch new products into the marketplace”.
Meanwhile, WesBank’s Gaoaketse says South African motorists “continue to remain under immense budget pressures” amid interest rates at a 15-year high, suggesting there “isn’t much relief expected soon”.
“Whilst soft economic growth and inflation data indicate the real possibility now for interest-rate cuts, with only 2 opportunities in September and November, consumers shouldn’t expect big savings to become a reality this year,” says Gaoaketse.
However, he adds that “the return of some confidence into the market is reflected in demand as measured by WesBank’s rate of applications,” adding that “hopefully, this continues to translate into more optimism for the 2nd half”.
Finally, NADA’s Cohen remains upbeat, though points out that while there is a “clear desire for vehicles, affordability remains a significant barrier”.
“Consumers are beginning to visit dealerships more frequently. Confidence in the country and overall sentiment are improving, leading people to gradually return to car purchases. However, high interest rates and the unsustainably high cost of living continue to impact vehicle-finance accessibility.
“There are positive indications that interest rates may be reduced by 25 to 50 basis points before the year ends, and some consumers are already factoring this potential change into their purchasing decisions,” Cohen concludes.
The new Toyota GR Sport III recently came to market with beefed-up looks and capability. Does the new Hilux GR Sport III represent a solid buying proposition? Jacob Moshokoa explores the pros and cons of buying the new Toyota Hilux GR Sport III in our latest video!
The locally-built Toyota Hilux GR Sport is unlike your average Hilux. This special edition is not just a sticker pack either, as Jacob Moshokoa does a deep dive into this butch-looking bakkie.
In this video review he looks at the upgraded setup and suspension, what you get for your money, how it compares to its number one rival, the Ford Ranger Wildtrak.
Is this the Hilux to buy before the all-new generation model breaks cover in 2025?
Want a versatile, spacious 7-seater? Don’t buy an SUV
Now that SUVs are all the rage, MPVs are terminally uncool. However, carmakers are still battling to package SUVs in a way that they can seat ALL 7 occupants in comfort and still offer notable luggage space. Buyers have to compromise… or do they?
Let’s be honest: throughout the history of the automotive industry, there have been countless instances where vehicle manufacturers have been anything but honest in their marketing promises.
The Renault Scenic, which popularised the small MPV, has now morphed into an all-electric (sigh) crossover.
Possibly the biggest bout of post-millennial truth-bending has been Volkswagen’s initial insistence on selling “clean diesels” in the years up to 2015, only to be caught fitting so-called “defeat devices” on its turbodiesel cars, which I discussed in “Turbodiesel heroes you might have forgotten about“. VW did this to achieve inaccurately low CO2 emissions (in regulated tests)… and all to support its marketing hoopla.
While Dieselgate shook the automotive world’s foundations and forced the VW Group to change its ways, today a much bigger sham is peddled unabatedly by, well, most car brands: the 7-seater SUV (and even the 7-seater crossover, of which the Hyundai Grand Creta is one of the most compact examples).
Watch Ciro De Siena’s video review of the Hyundai Grand Creta
I refer to off-roader-esque vehicles with 4 doors and a collapsible 3rd row of seats, the latter of which is impossible to access without 2nd-row occupants having to disembark to fold their seatbacks forward.
Indeed, the very same models whose 3rd rows lack footwells (owing to the seats being mounted above the rear axle_ so that only children or little people can fit in them – adults would be in utter discomfort after sitting there for only 5 minutes. And, when the rearmost seats are in use – there’s no space for any luggage, to say nothing of highly questionable 3rd-row passenger safety in the event of a rear smash.
From the Renault Triber (a close relative of the mercifully discontinued Datsun Go+) to the mighty Range Rover and everything in between, fundamentally any 4-door bodyshell fitted with 3 rows of seats demands compromises to extol its full claimed capability: you’re either ferrying 5 adults with 2 small kids and next to no luggage; or 5 adults and no kids with luggage: forever a case of either/or. But never both.
Yet there are far better, fuel-efficient and socially acceptable (if that’s your thing) alternatives for every large family who needs passenger AND utility space, but with no appetite for the ceaseless spatial challenges of a 3-row SUV. Allow me to present the humble MPV that’s based on a commercial vehicle.
Watch Ciro De Siena’s video review of the VW Caddy Maxi 2.0Tdi
Why would you, for example, buy a (soon-to-be-discontinued) Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace, which is touted as a 7-seater, when from the same stable you can have a proper one that’s more spacious, has dual sliding doors and significantly more utility space, a flexible, even removable seating configuration and low step-in access – in the by-default-class-leading Volkswagen Caddy (based on a panel van)?
Not that there are any other proper minivans of the sliding-door variety in the sub-R500k segment: if you’re a ride-hailer driver, your daily job consists of forever trying to fool everyone into believing that there’s space for an entire family (and granny) in your Honda Mobilio, Suzuki Ertiga or the latter’s Toyota Rumion cousin. You know all too well that Gran’s Zimmer frame and oxygen tank are going to have to be strapped to the roof rails should she happen to haul along the tote bag in which she keeps her meds.
Watch Ciro De Siena’s video review of the Honda BR-V
Coming from an admittedly low base, the Mitsubishi Xpander (which was updated in 2022), as well as the Mobilio’s successor – the Honda BR-V 7-seater – are marginally cooler. Importantly, they eschew the, um, über-uncool shuttle looks. And that is important when transporting image-conscious Tik-Tokking teens, but don’t get too excited: both ultimately still suffer from the same “pseudo-7-seat-SUV-itus”.
Even when spending double-ish Caddy money in the Toyota Fortuner, Ford Everest or unfancied Isuzu MU-X range, the 7-seater dilemma remains unresolved. If, however, you require passenger- plus loading space and can overcome Mzansi’s incurable SUV addiction, this is also where the smart shopping starts.
Outdoorsy types who are willing to forgo a 3rd row, but prefer to keep their gear safe and dry, need look no further than crew cab offerings in the Volkswagen Transporter, Hyundai Staria and Mercedes-Benz Vito ranges – the first 2 of which are, interestingly, priced at around R780k new, although the Toyota Quantum iteration undercuts the VW and Hyundai offerings significantly at R708 800 (August 2024).
For those unfamiliar with bus lingo: crew cabs are configured as 2-row kombis equipped with dual sliding doors divided by a bulkhead ahead of a monstrous rear utility space that is only accessible from the rear.
Of course, no discussion about buses is complete without mention of a Volkswagen: the entry-level Transporter Kombi with a wheezy 81 kW starts at R866k. To upgrade from there you’ll pay just over R1000 per extra kilowatt to an upgrade to the 110 kW version, but believe me, you’d be crazy not to.
But back to the used market – that’s where you’ll find value for money people movers. If you need 8 seats, consider the Ford Tourneo, Opel Zafira Life and Hyundai Staria, which replaced the H1 in 2021, but don’t forget about the 7- or 8-seater Kia Carnival – arguably the finest MPV that’s hiding in plain sight.
Some time ago, Toyota reverted to the stalwart Hi-Ace descriptor for its minibus and correspondingly moved the Quantum badge upmarket to designate the more suburban version of the company’s line-up of people movers. Whether, in terms of equity, it was the right call to redeploy a name previously associated with affordable, quasi-public transport into the private realm, remains open to debate.
The evolutionary reality is that the SUV craze killed off most MPVs (and many buyers switched to bakkie-based models). Sadly, a 7-seater SUV is a piecemeal replacement for an MPV. At least minibuses will live on, perhaps forever, for their spaciousness and sheer memory-making versatility – you can bank on that!
Still forbidden fruit? Refreshed Ford Maverick revealed
A facelifted version of the Ford Maverick bakkie has been revealed, though a lack of right-hand-drive production means it remains off the cards for South Africa… for now?
Meet the facelifted Ford Maverick, which gains fresh exterior styling, added technology and the option of all-wheel drive for the hybrid powertrain. However, since the Dearborn-based firm is currently still building this sub-Ranger double-cab bakkie exclusively in left-hand drive for North America, it remains off the cards for South Africa.
While Ford doesn’t hold the rights to the Maverick badge in South Africa (with the nameplate instead reserved for an armoured personnel carrier built by the Paramount Group), the Blue Oval brand interestingly applied to trademark the “Maverick Thunder” name in Mzansi in July 2022, with the badge officially registered in March 2024.
The new hybrid AWD model has an optional package to double the claimed towing capacity.
Though a trademark filing is by no means a guarantee the automaker will use the badge in question, it at least gives us a glimmer of hope the Maverick could one day be produced in right-hooker guise. For the record, however, Ford North America has yet to announce a Thunder derivative of the Maverick (but does offer a Tremor trim level in that country).
Anyway, back to the refreshed Maverick. Compared with the original revealed back in June 2021, the facelifted unibody bakkie scores redesigned headlamps (higher trim levels feature LED projector headlights with LED accents) and an updated front bumper. The grille design now varies according to the grade, while the Lariat specification gains new 19-inch alloy wheels.
This is the XLT derivative finished in a “Desert Sand” hue.
As before, the Maverick is offered in XL, XLT and Lariat trim levels, while the aforementioned “Tremor” is now a standalone flagship grade. Inside, Ford has added fresh trim colours and materials to the door panels, instrument panel, console and seats. There’s also a new “Black Package” that comprises a unique grille, a black roof, black “Ford” badges and gloss-black 19-inch wheels.
The refreshed Maverick upgrades from an 8-inch touchscreen to a 13.2-inch display (now with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and running the Sync 4 system), paired with an 8-inch digital instrument cluster visible. There’s furthermore a new built-in 5G modem for over-the-air software updates.
The new 13.2-inch touchscreen system.
Other firsts for the Maverick bakkie include a 360-degree camera, Pro Trailer Hitch Assist, Pro Trailer Backup Assist, adaptive cruise control (with a stop-and-go function), lane centring and speed-sign recognition.
As before, the Maverick is offered in North America with a choice of 2 engines: a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol mill (now with around 175 kW) that uses an 8-speed automatic transmission and a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre petrol hybrid system (making approximately 140 kW) linked to a continuously variable transmission. However, the hybrid – like the EcoBoost motor – is now available in all-wheel-drive flavour, too.
The new fully electric Audi A6 e-tron is Ingolstadt’s most aerodynamic model yet, has a claimed range of over 700 km and looks likely to launch in South Africa in mid-2025…
Meet the Audi A6 e-tron, a fully electric newcomer offered in both Sportback and Avant body styles (and thus technically not as a sedan) – and boasting a single-charge range of “well over 700 km”, according to the Ingolstadt-based automaker.
So, will we see this new battery-powered model in Mzansi? Well, Audi SA has confirmed to Cars.co.za it is “anticipating that the A6 e-tron will launch in South Africa in mid-2025”, though points out the exact line-up has yet to be confirmed. Still, we suspect only the Sportback will make it to local shores (perhaps until the surely inevitable RS6 Avant e-tron is revealed, that is).
The Sportback models look likely to arrive in SA towards the middle of 2025.
The 2nd Audi model built on the Premium Platform Electric (PPE) platform after the Q6 e-tron – and the 3rd Volkswagen Group product on this architecture, including the battery-powered version of the Porsche Macan – the A6 e-tron will take the fight to the likes of the BMW i5 and Mercedes-Benz EQE.
In the interests of maximising range, the A6 Sportback e-tron is particularly slippery through the air. In fact, endowed with a drag coefficient as low as 0.21, it’s the most aerodynamic Audi yet (the wagon-shaped A6 Avant e-tron, meanwhile, isn’t far behind with a similarly impressive 0.24 coefficient of drag).
The A6 Sportback e-tron is the most aerodynamically efficient Audi yet.
The German automaker has so far detailed just a pair of powertrains, each drawing its urge from a “newly developed” lithium-ion battery pack. The latter comprises 12 modules and 180 prismatic cells, with a gross capacity of 100 kWh and a net capacity of 94.9 kWh (expect an entry-level battery pack with 10 modules and an 83 kWh gross capacity to be available at a later stage).
At launch, the A6 e-tron performance powertrain will offer 270 kW and 565 Nm to the rear axle, resulting in a claimed 0-100 kph time of 5.4 seconds and a top speed of 210 kph. In the Sportback body style, Audi claims a range of “over 750 km”, a figure that falls slightly to 720 km in the case of the Avant.
The all-paw S6 Sportback e-tron offers up to 405 kW.
Meanwhile, the all-wheel-drive S6 e-tron boasts 370 kW – or up to 405 kW with launch control activated – which sees the claimed 0-100 kph sprint time improve to 3.9 seconds and the top speed grow to 240 kph. The rear-sited electric motor offers 580 Nm while the front item adds 275 Nm. However, that extra performance comes at the cost of range, with the S6 Sportback e-tron’s claimed single-charge range dropping to a still-impressive 670 km and the S6 Avant e-tron’s figure falling to 640 km.
According to Audi, an appropriate fast-charging station can add up to 310 km of range to the A6 Sportback e-tron performance’s battery in just 10 minutes (with the state of charge ostensibly increasing from 10 to 80% in only 21 minutes). Interestingly, if a charging station works with 400V technology, the A6 e-tron can pivot to “bank charging”. In short, the 800V battery pack is split into a pair of 400V banks, which can then be charged in parallel with up to 135 kW.
Note the optional front-passenger screen.
Inside, you’ll find Audi’s latest MMI panoramic display, complete with a curved design and OLED technology. The set-up comprises an 11.9-inch virtual cockpit and a 14.5-inch touch display, while a 10.9-inch front-passenger screen is optional. There’s also the option of the brand’s 2nd-generation augmented reality head-up display, which reflects a tilted image plane across the windscreen towards the driver.
Another interesting option is a panoramic glass roof fashioned from “smart glass” (featuring polymer-dispersed liquid crystal technology) that “minimises direct sunlight and becomes opaque at the touch of a button”. Audi will also offer the new A6 e-tron with its 2nd-generation virtual side mirrors, now with a power-folding function, along with the option of a leather-free interior. At the rear there are 2nd-generation digital OLED taillamps alongside the “equipment-dependent” illumination of the brand’s 4-ringed logo.
From left: the S6 Sportback e-tron, A6 Avant e-tron and A6 Sportback e-tron.
The A6 Sportback e-tron measures 4 928 mm long (so, just 26 mm shorter than the C8-generation A6 saloon), with a wheelbase of 2 946 mm. Interestingly, those measurements – as well as the 1 923 mm width – are shared with the Avant, though the latter stands 40 mm taller at 1 527 mm. While luggage capacity is listed as 502 litres in either case, the Avant unsurprisingly boasts more utility space with a figure of 1 422 litres (92 units up on the Sportback).
So, what happens to the outgoing C8-generation A6 sedan and wagon? Well, the German firm is in the process of rejigging its naming convention – with even numbers denoting electrically powered models and odd numbers reserved for vehicles with combustion engines – which suggests the direct fossil-fuel replacement for the C8-series A6 will be rechristened as the A7. Expect that model to debut in 2025…
Golf 8 could stick around until 2035, says VW exec
A high-ranking VW executive says the Golf 8 could stick around until 2035, potentially soldiering on alongside a fully electric 9th-generation hatchback. Golf Vivo, anyone?
Worried that the likely fully electric Volkswagen Golf 9 will spell the end of petrol-powered derivatives such as the GTI? Well, if the latest comments from high-ranking VW executive Kai Grünitz are anything to go by, you needn’t fret since the current Golf 8 may well soldier on all the way until 2035.
Speaking to Top Gear’s Netherlands division, Grünitz – who is the VW brand’s board member responsible for technical development – suggested the current Golf had the potential to stick around until the middle of the next decade. The year 2035 is, of course, when the European Union wants all internal combustion-engined vehicles to have been removed from the continent’s new-car market.
Could the 8th-generation VW Golf stick around for another decade or so?
If the Golf 8 were to soldier on – surely with a few more updates along the way in a bid to keep it fresh – until 2035, it would by that point have been in production for a staggering (by modern standards, anyway) 15 years. Still, the potentially prolonged-lifecycle model’s eventual age will likely depend on several factors, including seemingly ever-changing regulations in Europe.
Back in November 2022, Thomas Schäfer, CEO of the Volkswagen brand, effectively confirmed a Golf 9 was on the cards, saying the Wolfsburg-based automaker “would be crazy” to let “iconic brand names” such as Golf and GTI “die and slip away” as it pivoted towards electric cars. The following year (after the discovery of a revised version of its iconic GTI logo, complete with a lightning bolt), he suggested such a model would indeed be fully electric, with a likely reveal in 2028.
The updated Golf 8.5 R was revealed as recently as June 2024.
As a reminder, the Golf 8 debuted in October 2019, with the GTI following in February 2020 (though arriving in South Africa only in September 2021). The facelifted Golf GTI – or so-called Gold 8.5 GTI – was unwrapped in January 2024, before the likewise refreshed Golf R hit the global stage in June 2024. Neither, however, has yet to be officially confirmed for South Africa.
Considering growing uncertainty around the pace of the global automotive market’s shift to full electrification (and indeed the varied requirements of individual markets), VW’s wait-and-see approach with the Golf 8 is perhaps unsurprising. So, Golf Vivo, anyone?
The Mercedes-Benz Fintail Estate is one of the rarest right-hand-drive load carriers in the Three-pointed Star’s history. This particular example belongs to an owner who put in a lot of effort to get the car into this condition.
IMAGES: Kian Eriksen
Three. That, according to Silverstone Auctions, is the number of Mercedes-Benz 230S Fintail Estate units (W111) that were imported to the UK when they were new. During the firm’s classic auction in July 2017, a very neat example of this rare ‘wagon was auctioned for a respectable £39 375 (about R900k). A while ago, we headed to George where one of these cars is part of a huge Mercedes-Benz collection.
History of the 230S Fintail Estate
Mercedes-Benz didn’t produce these cars itself. Although the chassis and drivetrain were obviously supplied by the Sindelfingen-based company, the car’s body was manufactured by IMA Mechelen of Belgium. After the assembly, a unique chassis plaque bearing the relevant details and IMA’s name at the top was affixed to the car. Incidentally, the company was also responsible for building other specialised vehicles (such as ambulances) based on the same chassis.
At the time, there were 4 different engines on offer in the range, which was known as the Universal. The entry-level 200 (70 kW, 2.0-litre), the 200 D (40 kW, 2.0-litre diesel), the 230 (77 kW, 2.3-litre) and finally the 230 S (88 kW, 2.3-litre). The Mercedes-Benz 230S Fintail Estate was only produced for 3 years from 1966 to 1968 and was 145 mm longer than the 3 other versions. Although not fitted to this model, ‘Benz also offered a 60:40-split 2nd row of seats on this variant, which added another level of practicality.
This 230S Universal’s story isn’t simple. The owner realised it was a rare car when he came across its incomplete body and just had to buy it. However, at the time, the “car”, which he bought around 2003, only comprised the body, rear seats and their mechanisms, all of which were specific to the Estate.
The restoration project
This collector had tackled several extensive restoration projects before and he realised this one would not be any different; the car’s underpinnings, drivetrain and many interior components were missing and the body had a lot of rust.
“I mentioned to the collector who I bought the body from that I was looking for a dashboard for this car. When the car arrived, there were six Fintail dashboards in the car! I was able to use some of these dashboards in my other cars as well.”
He imported the body to South Africa and started searching for a Fintail sedan. He found a very neat donor car, which he stripped and used the scavenged parts to finish the Fintail Estate. Then he found another Fintail, which he used to finish building the donor car and eventually sold it. The result is that this Estate is now an automatic version, whereas W111 Estates came standard with 4-speed manual ‘boxes.
He planned to paint the Estate Sea Foam White, but when he visited the paint shop for the first time, they had already painted the car beige, at least a period-correct Mercedes-Benz colour. Although the original colour was grey, the beige does portray the car in a much more stylish way than grey would have done.
If you’ve seen a Mercedes-Benz S123 Estate (the ‘wagon variant of the W123 sedan), you may recognise these roof rails. The Universal was offered with roof rails (with 8 feet that connect them to the roof gutters), but the ones on this car are from an S123. They may not be original, but they do suit the car.
“As expected, I had to research several specific details/features while I was restoring this car. Some of those were simple things, such as the position of the aft number plate. It was also a challenge to source the tail light lenses,” the owner says. “People tend to stare at this car as they don’t know this shape.”
Specifications
Model: Mercedes-Benz 230S Universal (W111)
Engine: M180 VIII, 2.3-litre, 6-cylinder, petrol
Power: 88 kW at 5 400 rpm
Torque: 178 Nm at 4000 rpm
Transmission: 4-speed automatic, RWD
Weight: 1 520 kg
Top speed: 170 kph
Years produced: 1966–1968
Behind the ‘wheel of the 230S Fintail Estate
Before I get behind its wheel, I peruse the exterior detailing of the Mercedes-Benz 230S Fintail Estate. The sheer road presence of his car is immediately noticeable. Even though there is much more bodywork and window surfaces around the rear compared with the sedan, the small fin tips are still pronounced – they’re reminders of the American influence on the exterior design of cars of this period.
As I discuss the car with its owner, I notice the interesting end piece of the single exhaust pipe, which has a triangular cut in its bottom half. It is believed that this alteration was done to allow the exhaust gas to be blown down rather than straight out, the latter of which would potentially dirty the car’s bumper.
I open the tailgate to find that the hatch of this car still features its original hinges – impressive! In front of me is a wooden deck divided by hard rubber linings. There is an abundance of space – even with the 2nd row in place. This 2nd row can also fold down, should maximum utility space be required.
When you want to make use of the 3rd row of seats (which faces rearwards), simply fold the rear bench’s backrest up, then the seat bottom up, and within seconds you have a fully fledged 7-seater. There are no seatbelts – but to view the world disappearing in your wake must be an astonishing way to travel. Even in the rear, the interior is trimmed in carpet, while the spare wheel position is also visible.
At the front, the interior is presented as you would expect from a Fintail. There is a vertical instrument pod with a coloured bar that rises as the car’s speed increases, but there is no rev counter. The latter adds to the relaxing nature of driving the car, as you can’t watch the revs rise or fall – you are encouraged to focus on the road ahead or join in the conversation with your passengers!
In truth, the rest of the cabin is fairly plain but still stylish. The 2 shades of brown leather trim perfectly complement one another and give the cabin a very warm aura. Meanwhile, the indicator stalk is located to the right of the steering column and the column shifter of the 4-speed automatic is to the left.
The 230S Fintail Estate’s seats are comfortable and I am availed a clear view of the road with the fenders behind each headlamp standing proud adjacent to the sides of the bonnet.
The transmission tunnel cuts the cabin for the front- and 2nd rows in 2, which unfortunately limits leg- and footroom for the middle occupants. At the same time, the benches contribute to a very cosy cabin, especially compared to modern individual front seats and sometimes significantly sculpted rear seats.
Although not technically a bench, the large front seats are connected by a sizeable armrest and a similar-sized piece between them, which effectively creates a “full bench” at the front. Because of the large windows, you have a near 360-degree visibility from the cabin, which is not the case in modern ‘Benzes.
The engine has a lazy nature and picks up speed at a pedestrian pace – after all, the 230S tips the scales at a claimed 1 520 kg, while the 2.3-litre engine is only rated at 88 kW. If you’re going to load the car fully with passengers and cargo, you preferably shouldn’t be in any rush to reach your destination.
The large, power-assisted steering ‘wheel facilitates super-easy manoeuvring. Once the ‘Benz is on the move, minimal effort is needed to direct the car while there is notable body lean through corners.
The W111-series ‘wagon was fitted with Mercedes’s early air suspension system, which was developed to keep the car level even when loaded and is made up of a single-joint swing axle with a hydropneumatic-compensating spring and level control.
These estates also came with 15-inch wheels, larger than the standard 13- and 14-inch wheels fitted to Fintail sedans. According to ‘Benz’s brochure, the Estate could swallow 2.7 m3 and up to 650 kg when the 2nd- and 3rd-row seats were folded down – a copious amount of space for almost any situation.
Summary
The sales brochure for the W111 shows the Mercedes-Benz 230S Fintail Estate parked in the vicinity of a stable, where horse riders could, in theory, load/unload their riding gear into/out of the stately ‘Benz, as well as positioned next to a river, ostensibly from where it could tow a small boat trailer home.
Even if more than three 230S Fintail Estates were imported to the UK, it remains one of the rarest Fintails. It is undoubtedly a car you want to share with people. Be it to transport detritus for a day at the beach or picnic baskets and a few blankets to enjoy an afternoon in the country – this Fintail won’t disappoint.
Having launched Black Edition derivatives of no fewer than 4 of its models (and their respective variants) since late in 2023, Audi South Africa recently extended the special trim grade to its Q5 Executive SUV and SQ5 Executive SUV Coupe as well.
Audi South Africa says the Q5 and Q5 Sportback Black Edition derivatives “place the focus squarely on dynamic design and convenience” and the Ingolstadt-based brand hopes these newcomers will garner the same market reception as the “plethora of (Black- and Urban Edition) variants that have captivated local buyers with their design appeal, generous standard specification and compelling finance offers.”
Q5 & Q5 Sportback 40 TDI & 40 TFSI Black Editions
Stationed above the Advanced trim line in the Audi Q5 range, the 40 TDI 140kW and 40 TFSI 183kW Black Editions (both of which are available in SUV and Sportback body styles) utilise 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel and turbopetrol engines mated with 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic transmissions.
Over and above the Advanced trim line specification, the Q5 40 TDI 140kW and 40 TFSI 183kW Black Edition derivatives and their Sportback equivalents offer:
Black styling plus package and black mirrors
20-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels
Matrix LED headlamps
Technology package, including MMI navigation plus and Audi connect infotainment services
Deluxe package, which incorporates:
Panoramic sunroof
Trailer hitch
Comfort key
City assistance package (rear-view camera, lane-change assist, pre-sense rear)
Sports seats with electric memory adjustment, incl. 4-way lumbar support
Electrically folding mirrors
Accent surfaces in gloss black
Flat-bottom steering wheel
Storage and luggage package
In our recent review of the Audi Q3 Sportback 35TFSI Black Edition, testers agreed that the “curated (Black Edition) specification certainly improves the appeal of the Q3 Sportback.” Will that also apply to the Q5 and Q5 Sportback Black Edition variants? Hopefully, we’ll get to review one of those SUVs soon.
SQ5 & SQ5 Sportback Black Editions
The SQ5 and SQ5 Sportback Black Editions, in turn, are aimed at “customers who desire a sportier drive without sacrificing any of the practicality and refinement (of) the Q5 (and Q5 Sportback)”, Audi SA says.
With a 3.0-litre 6-cylinder turbopetrol motor that delivers 260 kW/500 Nm and is mated with an 8-speed automatic transmission, the SQ5 and its Sportback sibling are said to bolt from 0-100 kph in a 4.9 sec.
Reflecting their standing as the flagship products in the Q5 line-up, the SQ5 Black Edition and SQ5 Sportback Black Edition include the following luxury and convenience features:
Black styling plus package and black mirrors
21-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels
Matrix LED headlamps
Panoramic sunroof
Trailer hitch
Bang & Olufsen premium sound system
Comfort key
Audi phone box
Sports front seats with electric memory adjustment
Adaptive air suspension sport
Park assist package
Storage and luggage package
How much do the Audi Q5 and SQ5 Black Editions cost in SA?
All prices include a 5-year/100 000 km Audi Freeway Plan service and maintenance plan.
Meanwhile, these newcomers to Audi South Africa’s line-up are offered in conjunction with Audi Assured guaranteed future value (GFV) vehicle-finance agreements. The GFV of each of these special-edition derivatives is established at the beginning of the contract term, giving buyers peace of mind in knowing the value they can receive for the vehicle of choice at the end of the contract term. Audi Financial Services also offers insurance options tailored to customers’ specific requirements.
If you are looking for the most capable, most hardcore 4×4 bakkies in South Africa, then this list is for you!
Are you looking for the most hardcore 4×4 bakkies available in Mzansi?
In South Africa, double-cab bakkies fulfil many roles. They are workhorses, family carriers and weekend 4×4 warriors, all in one. The versatility of the typical double-cab bakkie has helped make it one of the most sought-after body shapes in South Africa.
The sales success of offerings such as the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger is evidence of this popularity as is the fervent demand for these vehicles in the used car market. But what about buyers looking for the most hardcore 4×4 bakkies?
Well, while most double-cab 4×4 bakkies offer more than enough off-road capability to meet the needs of most buyers, there’s a handful of products that take 4×4 performance to a whole new level.
These high-performance off-road bakkies are niche vehicles, but they are popular not only with hardened 4×4 enthusiasts who often venture to wild places. No, they also attract those seeking to boost their social image by driving the biggest and most bad-ass bakkie money can buy.
In this article, we will highlight the high-performance, hardcore 4×4 bakkies that are currently available to local buyers.
Note that pricing is accurate as of July 2024.
SA’s Most Hardcore 4×4 Bakkies
Ford Ranger Raptor: The Power Champ
While the previous Ford Ranger Raptor was powered by a 2.0-litre bi-turbodiesel engine with a middling 157 kW and 500 Nm, the new version has upgraded to a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine generating a whopping 292 kW and 583 Nm! As before, it stands higher and wider than a standard Ranger, and those flared wheel arches are a not-so-subtle hint at its intent.
Moreover, the FOX 2.5-inch Live Valve Internal Bypass shock absorbers offer position-sensitive damping capability, helping set the Raptor apart but also enabling high-speed off-road driving. This new Raptor (which is imported from Thailand rather than built at Silverton) furthermore features a 10-speed automatic transmission, a 2-speed transfer case, front and rear locking differentials and up to 7 driving modes as well as an electronically controlled active exhaust system.
Pricing on the new market currently starts at R1 226 700. Of course, Cars.co.za has a wide range of used Ranger Raptors for sale too and you’d be wise to check them out!
Apart from the obligatory GR badging and beefy widebody kit, the Hilux GR-Sport III is more than a cosmetic exercise and its 2.8-litre turbodiesel engine produces a heady 165 kW and useful 550 Nm, making it the torquiest series-produced Hilux ever offered in South Africa. A 6-speed automatic transmission is standard.
The Hilux GR-Sport is also fitted with 17-inch alloy wheels with high-profile 265/65 R17 BFGoodrich rubber to “offer enhanced off-road performance” as well as GR-inspired suspension comprising new monotube shock absorbers with stiffer coil springs which are said to improve off-road handling and comfort.
Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster: The new-age Defender
The new Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster recently launched in South Africa and its off-road credentials are impressive with 264 mm of ground clearance; 800 mm wading depth; and approach, departure and breakover angles (36.2, 22.6 and 26.2 degrees, respectively) that the British brand claims are “unrivalled by any other series pick-up”. A centre differential lock and a 2-speed transfer case are fitted as standard while front and rear diff locks are optional on the base model and standard on the Trialmaster and Fieldmaster derivatives.
Engines are sourced from BMW, with customers offered a 3.0-litre inline-6 in either petrol or diesel flavour, with a ZF-sourced 8-speed automatic transmission standard in each case. The petrol mill makes 210 kW and 450 Nm, while the oil-burner offers 183 kW and 550 Nm.
While the Quartermaster is mechanically identical to the Grenadier Station Wagon, the chassis is some 305 mm longer. The load-bay measures 1 564 mm long and 1 619 mm wide, which is enough to handle a standard Euro pallet. The payload rating comes in at 760 kg and the braked towing capacity at 3 500 kg.
Everything about the Gladiator is large! It’s currently the largest double-cab bakkie on sale in South Africa, with a length of well over 5 metres. It’s also the 3rd-most powerful (behind the Raptor and Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster) with its naturally aspirated 3.6-litre, V6 petrol engine (paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission) producing 209 kW and 347 Nm of torque. Its asking price is also rather large at R1 364 900, making it South Africa’s second-most-expensive bakkie.
While it’s almost certainly too cumbersome for regular use in a city environment, the Gladiator is most at home in the wild and this is where it showcases its tremendous 4×4 prowess.
The Gladiator’s arsenal of off-road assistance systems is exhaustive – the 4×4 setup features 2WD, part-time 4WD, permanent 4WD and low-range functionality, while there are multiple locking differentials, an off-road traction mode, plus a sway bar that can be disconnected. The only thing limiting the Gladiator is your bravery…
The Isuzu D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35 launched in South Africa in July 2023. It sits at the summit of the d-Max range and is priced from R1 170 339.
Based on the D-Max 3.0TD V-Cross 4×4, the beefed-up contender is again locally assembled at Isuzu’s plant in Struandale, Gqeberha. The D-Max AT35 features a host of enhancements to make it more capable off the beaten path. For starters, it wears chunky 35-inch BFGoodrich off-road tyres (hence its name) as standard on 17-inch matte-black alloy wheels framed by flared wheel arches. The suspension has been overhauled with an “optimised and elevated” tailored Bilstein performance set-up featuring front springs and dampers, rear dampers and an additional front and rear body lift.
The “purpose-designed” lift kit and tyres increase the ground clearance from the standard figure of 232 mm to 266 mm, while also boosting the bakkie’s overall height from 1 810 mm to 1 875 mm. The claimed wading depth of 800 mm climbs to 865 mm, while the approach angle improves to 33 degrees, the departure angle to 23 degrees and the break-over angle to 34 degrees. As for the engine, the Isuzu D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35 is fitted with Isuzu’s 3.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine, which produces 140 kW and 450 Nm and is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
