The updated Everest range will be expanded by the addition of a Tremor derivative, set to arrive in the 4th quarter of 2026.
The Ford Everest Tremor is likely to be the most rugged and talented offroad-ready version of Ford’s three-row SUV. The Tremor trim level is purely focused on leaving the tarmac far behind and features a number of upgrades.
These take the form of an offroad suspension with Bilstein dampers and new springs. The wheels are wrapped in General Grabber AT3 all-terrain rubber and thanks to the combination of both the tyres and enhanced suspension, the Ford Everest Tremor boasts an additional 26 mm of ground clearance in comparison to the standard Everest. This derivative also features the Rock Crawl drive mode.
In terms of engine and transmission, the 3.0-litre V6 turbocharged diesel engine is on duty and in this application it makes 184 kW and 600 Nm, and Ford claims a 3.5 ton maximum braked towing capacity.
Visually, you’re going to able to differentiate the Tremor from its lesser Everest siblings thanks to a distinct honeycomb grille design with auxiliary LED lamps, a steel bash plate, heavy-duty side steps, and signature Tremor badging. It will also be available in the unique Command Grey exterior colour that is exclusive to the Tremor series.
Inside, it features Tremor-embossed leather accented seats, ebony-coloured interior accents, and durable all-weather floor mats, the latter being an absolute no-brainer considering the terrain you’ll be travelling.
When is the Ford Everest Tremor coming to South Africa?
The Ford Everest Tremor will be hitting South African showrooms in the 4th quarter of 2026 and we’ll have final pricing and specifications closer to launch.
The Citroen Basalt brings sporty coupe-crossover styling to the B-segment. With an attractive price and generous specification level, is it worth a second look?
We like: Citroen Basalt has a strong engine, impressive efficiency, ride quality, generous boot space, value for money.
We don’t like: Some cheap-feeling plastics, 3-cylinder engine vibration … but we’re really nitpicking here.
The sub-R400k compact SUV segment is bulging at the seams with entrants from across the spectrum. You have your legacy brands trying to secure their regular sales amid an onslaught of newcomer brands, all taking place in a price-sensitive market.
In an effort to differentiate itself, Citroen’s Basalt is more of a sports-coupe SUV than a generic 2-box shape. Think of it as Citroen’s BMW X4, Audi Q3 Sportback and so on, trying to stand out in a busy crowd. Citroen is clamouring for private sales; a quick glance at the Stellantis sales charts shows a large portion of units are sold to the rental fleets. If it’s good enough for the likes of Avis, Sixt, First, Thrifty and co, why has there been minimal interest from the general buying public?
Perhaps it’s perception of the brand (there’s always one naysayer screeching about the lack of parts and reliability), lack of dealership footprint and being drowned out by brands that have substantially larger marketing budgets.
Rivals for the Basalt are numerous and considerable, but once you start looking under that R400k threshold, how much value can you get? At this price point, we’ve identified the Kia Sonet 1.5 LX auto and Haval Jolion Pro 1.5T Premium as solid alternatives. A direct comparison would be the same-styled Tata Curvv, which offers a similar powertrain and is priced pretty close, but we’re yet to drive it…
The Basalt retains all the classic Citroen design elements, like split headlights, but here in a liftback crossover package. We do wish the car had larger wheels … the standard 16-inch units look too small for the arches.
Granted, the sporty-coupe SUV aesthetic is as niche as they come. If you don’t believe us, take a look at how many Volkswagen Taigos are sold in comparison to the standard T-Cross, or BMW X2 versus X1 sales…
There are two derivatives on offer – Plus and Max – with the latter being the subject of this assessment. For the price difference of R15 000, you get a fin-shaped radio aerial, leather-wrapped steering wheel, boot light, 2 additional tweeters for the audio system, electrochromatic rear-view mirror, and reverse camera.
Standard specification is excellent at this price. The 10-inch infotainment system boasts wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay via a simple and straightforward interface. No menus within menus; the Basalt’s system is focused on getting the basics right. There’s also a 7-inch digital instrument cluster that contains all the most critical info. Other noteworthy features include keyless entry, push-button start, cruise control, and climate control.
Build quality is a mixed bag. Visually, it’s Citroen at its best: vibrant, non-conformist and easy to use, but the tactile feel of the plastics may disappoint some. That said, the hard plastics should be long lasting and easy to clean.
The styling and shape may be interesting, but there’s method to this unorthodox approach. The boot space is easily one of the biggest in the segment. Sitting at a claimed 470 litres, it comfortably outguns most of its rivals.
You’d think that such a large boot would impact rear space, but this is not the case. Second-row passengers have adequate leg- and headroom. The addition of USB-C fast-charging ports is useful, and given the slow-charging USB-A at the front, we found ourselves using a longer cable to access these instead.
Ride, Handling & Safety
The Basalt forms part of Citroen’s developing market strategy, aimed at countries like India (where it’s assembled), South America and South Africa. It’s built on the Stellantis Compact Modular Platform (CMP) and Citroen vehicles have a reputation for on-road comfort. This is also the case for the Basalt. The ride set-up is on the comfier side and the car’s able to absorb the majority of road imperfections.
The compliant arrangement means there is some body roll when executing quicker cornering, but we prefer comfort over sportiness in a crossover. Not everything has to be ‘dynamic’ and we’re certain many customers just want to get from A-B without much theatrics, engagement or drama.
The steering set-up is pleasantly light and reassuringly direct. Those tight parking spots will be effortless to fill. Seating comfort is generally fair, but the seats themselves feel quite square in shape and lack side support during cornering.
There’s a useful 180 mm of ground clearance, which serves 2 purposes: getting in is easier, plus the reassurance of some degree of gravel travel being possible.
In terms of safety features, the Basalt has 6 airbags, stability control, tyre pressure monitoring and anti-lock brakes. It scored 4 stars in India’s Bharat NCAP.
Performance & Efficiency
The engine is one of the Stellantis Group’s stalwarts and has been around for some time. In this application, the 1.2-litre turbocharged 3-cylinder petrol PureTech makes 81 kW and 205 Nm. It is front-wheel driven and features a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Those outputs make the Basalt one of the more powerful options in the segment, comfortably outgunning naturally aspirated rivals like the Suzuki Across both in terms of overtaking capabilities and standing-start acceleration. There’s no 0-100 kph claim, but our testing recorded 11.05 seconds. However, the vehicle feels quicker than it actually is, showing minimal hesitation to get up and go.
Now, punchy turbocharged petrol engines may deliver commendable performance, but this can come at the expense of heavier-than-expected fuel consumption. It’s furthermore compounded by farcical economy claims. That’s not the case with the Basalt. Its claim of 6.3 L/100 km was met with an impressive 6.6-6.9 L/100 km in the real world.
As 3-pot engines have an odd number of cylinders, they’re inherently unbalanced. This is made obvious by a distinct engine note (usually not unappealing) and vibration. In some higher-end 3-cylinder vehicles like a BMW 118, there’s additional noise- and vibration-deadening in an effort to smooth things out. In the case of the much cheaper Citroen, you get what you pay for. Is it a deal breaker? No, we don’t think so.
Citroen Basalt 1.2T 6AT Price & After-sales support
The Basalt is sold with a 5-year/100 000 km warranty and a 4-year/60 000 km service plan (with intervals of 15 000 km).
Basalt 1.2T Plus 6AT
R354 900
Basalt 1.2T Max 6AT
R369 900
Verdict
We’ll confess that we started our test experience with low expectations, but after 2 weeks, the Basalt proved considerably better than expected. A pleasant surprise, if you will.
Genuine value for money is a rare commodity in these cash-strapped days. Yes, brands from the East have carved out a serious niche for themselves, offering huge value, but even they struggle to match the honesty, performance and efficiency of the Basalt.
Should you buy one? If you’re happy to take the risk on Citroen’s so-so reputation and can get an even better deal, then it’s unlikely you will be disappointed.
How much does the Citroën Basalt cost in South Africa?
As of May 2026, the Citroën Basalt pricing starts at R354 900 for the 1.2T Plus derivative and R369 900 for the top-spec 1.2T Max model.
What engine is used in the SA-spec Citroën Basalt?
The Basalt is powered by a 1.2-litre turbocharged 3-cylinder petrol engine producing 81 kW and 205 Nm, paired exclusively with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
What is the fuel consumption of the Citroën Basalt?
The Citroën Basalt has a claimed combined fuel consumption of 6.3 litres per 100km, offering a theoretical range of over 700 km from its 45-litre tank.
Does the Citroën Basalt have a good safety rating?
Standard safety features across the range include 6 airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), ABS with EBD, ISOFIX child seat anchors, and tyre-pressure monitoring.
What warranty and service plan is included?
The Basalt comes with a 5-year/100 000 km warranty and a 4-year/60 000 km service plan as standard in South Africa.
Ford Ranger Super Duty Confirmed for SA in 2027
The Ford Ranger Super Duty is an industrial-grade workhorse from the Blue Oval brand and it is confirmed for a South African market introduction in 2027. Here’s what you can expect.
The Ford Ranger is the best-selling double-cab bakkie in South Africa and its easy to see why. It blends lifestyle functionality and offroad capability without compromising on its workhorse origins. But, what if you wanted a double-cab that could work even harder? Enter the Ford Ranger Super Duty, and it is going on sale in South Africa in 2027. It will be an imported model from the Ford Thailand plant.
This ain’t no sticker pack or trim level, but rather a standalone model which has been engineered to be even more tough, more capable and work harder. Under the skin there’s a stronger front and rear driveshaft while a new heavy-duty rear axle provides enhanced load carrying capacity.
There’s more ground clearance, the Ranger platform is taller and there’s a wider track fitted. The wheels are wrapped in 33-inch General Grabber all-terrain tyres and for those of you who do serious towing like boats and horseboxes, the rating has been increased to 4 500 kg which is 1 500 kg more than the standard Ranger. It also features a recalibrated integrated trailer brake controller as well as the Ranger’s Pro Trailer Backup Assist that’ll make hitch ups easier.
According to Ford, the new rear differential is the strongest and biggest to ever be fitted to a production Ranger, plus the Super Duty also features its onboard scale where sensors mounted in the suspension can measure the current payload. If you’re working hard and in remote areas, the Ranger Super Duty boasts a 130-litre fuel tank which is shielded by thick steel. The underbelly features bash plates.
Under the bonnet is the 3.0-litre turbocharged diesel V6 engine and we’d assume at this point that it makes 184 kW and 600 Nm. But Ford Australia claims outputs of 154 kW and 600 Nm, presumably for reliability and emissions? Speaking of weight, Ford Australia says the double-cab Super Duty weighs 2 675 kg.
At this stage, the Ford Ranger Super Duty has not been homologated for the SA market, so we’ll have to wait and see if a Code 10 licence is required. As a reminder, the Ford F250 was sold in South Africa between 2005-2008 and due to its size and mass, it needed that documentation.
We’ll have specifications and pricing for this vehicle closer to its launch in South Africa in 2027.
The facelifted Isuzu D-Max has finally launched in South Africa and we have pricing. Here’s what this refreshed SA-built bakkie will cost you…
Facelifted D-Max finally launches in SA
No sign of new 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine
Portfolio again comprises 32 derivatives
X-Rider DC to be offered with 3.0TD motor
New 4×4 variants in extended-cab line-up
Single-cab range’s starting price cut R23k
It’s been a long time coming, but the facelifted Isuzu D-Max has finally launched in South Africa. And we can now confirm pricing for this refreshed locally built bakkie.
As a reminder, the facelifted RG-series D-Max was revealed in Thailand way back in October 2023. While that market (and many others that source this model from Thailand, such as Australia) has had the refreshed bakkie for a couple of years already, South Africa stuck with the pre-facelift version, built at Isuzu Motors SA’s local factory in Struandale.
The facelifted D-Max is finally on sale in SA.
Now, however, the facelifted Isuzu D-Max has finally started rolling off the line in the Eastern Cape. According to our information, the updated range again comprises as many as 32 derivatives (excluding the “Gen 6” prolonged-lifecycle derivatives, that is), though there are more extended-cab variants and fewer double-cab derivatives.
In addition, there’s no sign of the new “RZ4F” 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine (120 kW/400 Nm) and 8-speed automatic transmission, with the local market instead sticking with the 1.9-litre (110 kW/350 Nm) and 3.0-litre (140 kW/450 Nm) oil-burning motors. That’s despite the fact the Struandale facility imports its D-Max engines and transmissions from Thailand rather than producing powertrains locally.
Facelifted D-Max: the double-cab line-up
Note the revised front-end styling.
Right, let’s take a closer look at the refreshed line-up, starting with the D-Max Double-Cab range, which will shrink slightly – if perhaps only temporarily – from 19 to 17 derivatives. From what we understand, a facelifted version of the flagship AT35 won’t be available from launch, while the outgoing range’s trio of X-Rider Black variants will seemingly fall away.
According to our information, the 1.9TD Double Cab L 6MT 4×2 will kick off the D-Max double-cab portfolio at R574 010, representing an increase of R6 810. The 1.9TD Double Cab L 6AT 4×2 will cost R593 880 (up R8 780), with the 1.9TD Double Cab LS 6MT 4×2 coming in at R611 730 (up R10 230) and the 1.9TD Double Cab LS 6AT 4×2 at R633 290 (up R10 590).
This is the updated X-Rider, which can now be ordered with the 3.0TD engine.
Meanwhile, the 1.9TD Double Cab X-Rider 6MT 4×2 will cost R668 990 (up R9 890), with pricing for the 1.9TD Double Cab L 6MT 4×4 unchanged at R670 800. Next is the 1.9TD Double Cab X-Rider 6AT 4×2 at R690 810 (up R10 210), followed by the 1.9TD Double Cab LS 6AT 4×4 at R717 700 (up R12 000) and the 1.9TD Double Cab X-Rider 6AT 4×4 at R776 890 (up R11 490).
And the 3.0-litre derivatives? Well, our information suggests the 3.0TD Double Cab LS 6MT 4×4 will cost you R791 200 (up R11 700), with the 3.0TD Double Cab LS 6AT 4×4 coming in at R810 960 (up R13 290). Interestingly, Isuzu Motors SA will offer this larger-displacement engine in conjunction with the X-Rider grade, with the 3.0TD Double Cab X-Rider 6AT 4×2 set at R792 470 and the 3.0TD Double Cab X-Rider 6AT 4×4 at R844 470.
A look at the X-Rider’s cabin.
The top-spec versions (until we perhaps see an updated AT35, anyway) will be the LSE and V-Cross models. The 3.0TD Double Cab LSE 6AT 4×2 will be priced at R850 880 (up R12 580), with the 3.0TD Double Cab V-Cross 6AT 4×2 coming in at R898 380 (up R13 280). Then there’s the 3.0TD Double Cab LSE 6AT 4×4 for R900 310 (up R13 310) and finally the 3.0TD Double Cab V-Cross 6AT 4×4 for R948 930 (up R14 030).
Extended-cab range expands to 8 derivatives
The extended-cab range gains new 4×4 derivatives.
From what we can tell, Isuzu Motors SA will expand its D-Max Extended Cab range from 6 to 8 derivatives, adding new 4×4 variants while scrapping the L-spec 6MT 4×2 model. New derivatives include the 1.9TD Extended Cab L 6AT 4×2 (R553 690), 1.9TD Extended Cab L 6MT 4×4 (R583 690) and 1.9TD Extended Cab LS 6AT 4×4 (R634 340).
So-called “cab-and-a-half” variants that carry over include the 1.9TD Extended Cab 6MT 4×2 for R533 690 (up R28 990), the 1.9TD Extended Cab LS 6MT 4×2 for R561 190 (up R9 390), the 1.9TD Extended Cab LS 6AT 4×2 for R584 340 (up R8 640), the 3.0TD Extended Cab LSE 6AT 4×2 for R700 760 (up R10 360) and the 3.0TD Extended Cab LSE 6AT 4×4 for R785 720 (up R11 620).
Single-cab line-up gains new entry-level variant
The updated D-Max single cab.
Finally, the D-Max Single-Cab line-up will again comprise 7 derivatives, though the LS grade has seemingly been axed and a new entry-level “Low Rider” variant added. The latter is the 1.9TD Single Cab LR 6MT 4×2, set to come in at R433 860 and thus drop the range’s starting price by some R23 140.
The remaining derivatives are the 1.9TD Single Cab HR 6MT 4×2 for R463 860 (up R6 860), the 1.9TD Single Cab L 6MT 4×2 for R483 650 (up R7 150), the 1.9TD Single Cab L 6AT 4×2 for R502 230 (up R7 430), the 1.9TD Single Cab L 6MT 4×4 for R585 200 (unchanged), the 1.9TD Single Cab L 6AT 4×4 for R603 600 (unchanged) and finally the 3.0TD Single Cab L 6AT 4×4 for R689 090 (up R10 190).
New 9.0-inch infotainment screen.
Across the range, the revised D-Max’s styling mirrors that of the model revealed in Thailand in 2023. So, there’s a “power bulge” for the bonnet, a higher-and-wider grille, redesigned headlamps (with a new lighting signature) and the taillights with a 3-level “L-shaped” motif courtesy of LED tubes. New alloy-wheel designs debut as well.
From what we can tell, lower-spec versions of the facelifted D-Max gain a new 8.0-inch infotainment system, while higher-spec grades score a new 9.0-inch item.
What does the facelifted Isuzu D-Max cost in SA?
SINGLE-CAB DERIVATIVE
PRICE
D-Max 1.9TD Single Cab LR 6MT 4×2
R433 860 (new derivative)
D-Max 1.9TD Single Cab HR 6MT 4×2
R463 860 (up R6 860)
D-Max 1.9TD Single Cab L 6MT 4×2
R483 650 (up R7 150)
D-Max 1.9TD Single Cab L 6AT 4×2
R502 230 (up R7 430)
D-Max 1.9TD Single Cab L 6MT 4×4
R585 200 (unchanged)
D-Max 1.9TD Single Cab L 6AT 4×4
R603 600 (unchanged)
D-Max 3.0TD Single Cab L 6AT 4×4
R689 090 (up R10 190)
EXTENDED-CAB DERIVATIVE
PRICE
D-Max 1.9TD Extended Cab 6MT 4×2
R533 690 (up R28 990)
D-Max 1.9TD Extended Cab L 6AT 4×2
R553 690 (new derivative)
D-Max 1.9TD Extended Cab LS 6MT 4×2
R561 190 (up R9 390)
D-Max 1.9TD Extended Cab L 6MT 4×4
R583 690 (new derivative)
D-Max 1.9TD Extended Cab LS 6AT 4×2
R584 340 (up R8 640)
D-Max 1.9TD Extended Cab LS 6AT 4×4
R634 340 (new derivative)
D-Max 3.0TD Extended Cab LSE 6AT 4×2
R700 760 (up R10 360)
D-Max 3.0TD Extended Cab LSE 6AT 4×4
R785 720 (up R11 620)
DOUBLE-CAB DERIVATIVE
PRICE
D-Max 1.9TD Double Cab L 6MT 4×2
R574 010 (up R6 810)
D-Max 1.9TD Double Cab L 6AT 4×2
R593 880 (up R8 780)
D-Max 1.9TD Double Cab LS 6MT 4×2
R611 730 (up R10 230)
D-Max 1.9TD Double Cab LS 6AT 4×2
R633 290 (up R10 590)
D-Max 1.9TD Double Cab X-Rider 6MT 4×2
R668 990 (up R9 890)
D-Max 1.9TD Double Cab L 6MT 4×4
R670 800 (unchanged)
D-Max 1.9TD Double Cab X-Rider 6AT 4×2
R690 810 (up R10 210)
D-Max 1.9TD Double Cab LS 6AT 4×4
R717 700 (up R12 000)
D-Max 1.9TD Double Cab X-Rider 6AT 4×4
R776 890 (up R11 490)
D-Max 3.0TD Double Cab LS 6MT 4×4
R791 200 (up R11 700)
D-Max 3.0TD Double Cab X-Rider 6AT 4×2
R792 470 (new derivative)
D-Max 3.0TD Double Cab LS 6AT 4×4
R810 960 (up R13 290)
D-Max 3.0TD Double Cab X-Rider 6AT 4×4
R844 470 (new derivative)
D-Max 3.0TD Double Cab LSE 6AT 4×2
R850 880 (up R12 580)
D-Max 3.0TD Double Cab V-Cross 6AT 4×2
R898 380 (up R13 280)
D-Max 3.0TD Double Cab LSE 6AT 4×4
R900 310 (up R13 310)
D-Max 3.0TD Double Cab V-Cross 6AT 4×4
R948 930 (up R14 030)
The prices above include Isuzu’s 5-year/120 000 km warranty and a 6-year/90 000 km service plan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Has the Isuzu D-Max engine line-up changed with the South African facelift?
A: No, the South African-built D-Max retains the 1.9-litre (110 kW/350 Nm) and 3.0-litre (140 kW/450 Nm) turbodiesel engines. While a new 2.2-litre engine was introduced in other markets, it is not currently part of the local range. However, Isuzu has expanded the 3.0TD engine’s availability to the popular X-Rider trim.
Q: How has the starting price for the Isuzu D-Max range changed?
A: Interestingly, the starting price for the D-Max range has actually decreased by over R23 000. This is due to the introduction of a new entry-level “Low Rider” (LR) variant in the single-cab lineup, which is priced from R433 860. Pricing for most other established derivatives has seen a moderate increase.
Q: What are the main styling and interior upgrades for the refreshed D-Max?
A: Exterior updates include a new “power bulge” bonnet, a wider grille, redesigned LED headlamps and 3-level L-shaped taillights. Inside, the bakkie receives updated technology, featuring a new 8.0-inch infotainment screen on lower-spec models and a 9.0-inch display on higher-grade variants.
Proton dropped by SA distributor (but will Geely take over?)
Proton’s local distributor looks set to off-load the struggling Malaysian brand. While Geely confirms it’s in “discussions” to take over distribution in SA, it says “no formal decisions” have yet been made…
CMH confirms Proton distribution agreement will “terminate”
Geely in talks to take over but says no decision has been made
Proton sales in SA slumped 87.5% year-on-year in Q1 2026
With Proton sales in South Africa flagging, the Combined Motor Holdings (CMH) Group has confirmed its distribution agreement with the Malaysian brand with soon “terminate”. Chinese firm Geely – which owns a 49.9% stake in Proton globally – says it’s in discussions to take over local distribution, though emphasises “no formal decisions” have yet been made.
As a reminder, Proton returned to South Africa in September 2022, after the CMH Group was appointed as the brand’s local distributor. In May 2025, we reported that the marque’s future in Mzansi looked uncertain, based on comments from CMH Group CEO Jebb McIntosh. Soon thereafter, Proton SA released a statement saying it was “not exiting the South African market”.
Now, a year later – with local Proton sales having tapered to a fresh low – McIntosh confirmed in the CMH Group’s recently released 2026 integrated annual report (for the year ended 28 February 2026) that the “Proton import/distribution operation will terminate when the remaining inventory is sold”.
“The products have proven to be of good quality, with low warranty-claim rates, but the import pricing is uncompetitive. The [CMH] Group will continue to support [Proton] customers with workshop and parts facilities through its retail outlets until the local Geely operations are ready to take over,” McIntosh wrote in the report.
Since McIntosh made specific mention of the Chinese brand, we asked Geely Auto South Africa – which is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Zhejiang-based automotive giant – whether it did indeed have plans to take over local distribution for Proton. For context, Geely returned to SA late in 2025, relaunching its local operations with the E5 range, before adding the fully electric E2 in April 2026.
“We are aware of the market speculation regarding Proton’s future distribution arrangements in South Africa. Discussions are currently ongoing, however no formal decisions or announcements have been concluded at this stage. As such, it would be premature for us to comment further at this time,” Geely Auto SA told Cars.co.za, adding that any “confirmed information” would be “communicated through the appropriate formal channels”.
Ahead of its return to the local market in 2022, Proton’s global division said it was “bullish about its sales prospects in South Africa”, adding that it was “projecting strong sales” in the final months of 2022, before setting itself a target of more than doubling its volume in 2023.
The automaker started reporting sales figures to industry-representative body Naamsa in July 2023, with 640 units registered in the 2nd half of that year. In 2024, Proton sold 888 units in Mzansi (translating to a monthly average of 74 units), a total that fell to just 459 units in 2025 (or around 38 units a month).
In Q1 2026, Proton SA suffered the local market’s most significant year-on-year percentage drop in sales, with registrations plummeting 87.5% compared to the same 3-month reporting period in 2025, falling from 160 units to a mere 20 units. A further 7 units were registered in April 2026.
Proton’s range in South Africa currently comprises the Saga sedan along with the X50, X70 and X90 crossovers. Pricing starts at R209 900 for the base version of the Saga and runs through to R679 900 for the top-spec derivative in the X90 line-up. According to its website, Proton currently has 10 dealerships in SA – down from the 17 that were listed a year ago (in May 2025) and the 20 that marked the brand’s relaunch in 2022.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is Proton leaving the South African market?
A: While the current distributor, Combined Motor Holdings (CMH) Group, has confirmed it will terminate its distribution agreement once remaining inventory is sold, the brand might not actually exit. Geely Auto South Africa is currently in discussions to potentially take over local distribution, though no formal decision has been finalised.
Q: How poor were Proton’s sales figures in early 2026?
A: Proton suffered a massive 87.5% year-on-year sales decline in Q1 2026, with registrations dropping from 160 units in the first three months of 2025 to just 20 units in the same period of 2026. Only 7 additional units were registered in April 2026.
Q: Will current Proton owners still have access to parts and services?
A: CMH Group CEO Jebb McIntosh has confirmed that the group will continue to support existing customers with workshop and parts facilities through its retail outlets, seemingly until local Geely operations are prepared to take over the responsibility.
Scoop! The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ is launching in South Africa in May 2026 and we have specifications and pricing for the new compact offroader.
Revealed back in October 2025, the new Toyota Cruiser FJ is about to make its local showroom debut, priced under R800 000. Sharing a modified and updated version of the Hilux and Fortuner platform, the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ boasts a wheelbase of 2 580 mm, meaning its a bit longer than the Corolla Cross, but just shorter than the RAV4 (itself due for replacement).
Powertrain
The ladderframe architecture, low-range transfer case and wheel articulation mean it should be one talented machine when it comes to the offroad trails. In terms of powertrain, it appears there’s just one combination offered and that’s the 2.7-litre naturally-aspirated 4-cylinder petrol engine.
Codenamed the 2TR-FE, it produces 122 kW and 245 Nm to all four wheels via a 6-speed Super ECT automatic transmission. A consumption figure of 10.7 L/100 km is claimed. It is rumoured a diesel powertrain will eventually follow. A rear differential lock is standard, as is a selectable part-time 4-wheel drive system.
At the time of writing, we understand there’ll be two trim levels; GX and VX. Customers can choose from one of five colours; Attitude Black, Platinum White Pearl, Oxide Bronze, Calcite Blue, Ash.
Black 18-inch alloys Leather trim Auto dual zone climate control LED headlights Android Auto/Apple CarPlay Adaptive high-beam lighting Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 (Auto emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind spot, lane departure)
At this stage, there is no sign of the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ First Edition (below right).
How much does the new Toyota FJ cost in South Africa?
The Land Cruiser FJ is sold with a 3-year/100 000 km warranty, 9 services/90 000 km service plan as well as 25gb complimentary wifi for 12 months.
How much does the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ cost in South Africa?
The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ is available in two specification grades: the entry-level GX costs R714,000 and the flagship VX costs R761,400.
What engine powers the Land Cruiser FJ in SA?
The Land Cruiser FJ is powered by a 2.7-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine (2TR-FE) that produces 122kW of power and 245Nm of torque.
Is the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ an automatic 4×4?
Yes. Both the GX and VX derivatives come standard with a 6-speed Super ECT automatic transmission paired with a part-time four-wheel-drive system and low-range transfer case.
What platform is the Land Cruiser FJ built on?
The Land Cruiser FJ utilizes a rugged, body-on-frame setup built on Toyota’s IMV platform, which it shares with the Hilux and Fortuner.
What is the ground clearance of the Land Cruiser FJ?
Built for serious off-roading, the compact SUV boasts an impressive 245 mm of ground clearance along with a locking rear differential.
Scoop! Chery Tiggo V and Q EV spotted in SA
Chery appears to be preparing another massive product offensive for South Africa, with the shapeshifting Tiggo V and the budget-friendly Q electric hatchback recently snapped on local soil.
Fresh from their global unveilings, the Chery Tiggo V and the Chery Q have been spotted on a transport carrier in South Africa, signalling their imminent local introduction.
While Chery has very quickly established itself as a powerhouse in the SUV segment – the Tiggo 4 was SA’s best-selling passenger vehicle in April – these two arrivals represent a pivot to a stronger focus on versatility (Tiggo V) and affordable electrification (Q).
Unveiled at Auto China 2026, the Tiggo V is far from a standard crossover. It is built on modular architecture that blurs the lines between traditional body styles. Chery describes the Tiggo V as a “multi-purpose life space.” Marketing speak aside, what that means is the Tiggo V can be adapted to function as a family-oriented SUV, a spacious MPV, or even a bakkie-style utility vehicle.
The Chery Tiggo V at its unveiling at Auto China 2026.
This model is a fascinating prospect for the local market. South Africans famously love bakkies for their utility and SUVs for their versatility and comfort; the Tiggo V aims to provide both in a single package.
When the Tiggo V arrives, expect a futuristic, minimalist cabin dominated by large screens and sustainable materials.
The Q
Accompanying the Tiggo V on the truck was the Q, a compact electric hatchback known internationally as the QQ3 (remember that ill-fated city hatchback?).
Much like the BYD Dolphin Surf and Geely E2, the Q is positioned as an accessible entry point into EV ownership. While official local specs are yet to be confirmed, international versions feature a range of up to 300 km, making it an ideal city car.
Current indications suggest the Chery Q will make its official South African debut later this year. With these models now physically in the country, expect official pricing and specification announcements to follow shortly.
SA’s 10 most popular Chinese vehicles in April 2026
We’ve identified South Africa’s 10 most popular Chinese vehicles for April 2026, with the Jetour T2 grabbing a podium place and a fully electric vehicle entering the top 10…
Chery Tiggo 4 range’s domination continues
Jetour T2 was 3rd most popular Chinese car
Dolphin Surf enters Chinese-vehicle top 10
In a first for South Africa’s new-vehicle market, four Chinese automakers ranked in the top 10 in April 2026. But which models led the sales charge for China last month? Well, we’ve sorted through the registration figures to identify the 10 Chinese vehicles that proved most popular with local new-vehicle buyers in April.
Keep in mind we’ve included both the passenger-vehicle and the light-commercial vehicle (LCV) segments in this exercise, so the list below also features a bakkie (in addition to a bunch of crossovers and a hatchback). Furthermore, note some Chinese brands operating in SA – including the likes of JMC, GAC, Geely and LDV – currently don’t report sales figures to Naamsa, so are not represented here.
Tiggo 4 dominates as T2’s climb continues
The Chery Tiggo 4 – which includes both the Tiggo 4 Pro and the Tiggo Cross – was not just South Africa’s most popular Chinese vehicle in April 2026 but also the market’s best-selling passenger car overall (the first time a Chinese model has grabbed that title). This was despite local registrations dipping 0.9% month on month to 1 871 units.
Meanwhile, the Haval Jolion retained 2nd place on the Chinese-vehicle charts, growing its tally 1.2% month on month to 1 277 units. But it was the Jetour T2 that posted the strongest growth in the top 10, with sales surging 55.4% month on month to 1 004 units. That saw the T2 (which the Chinese firm says will be produced from 2027 at the Rosslyn factory that the Chery Group is purchasing from Nissan) grab a podium spot.
Omoda C5 drops to 4th but sales hold steady
Though April 2026 marked the first time Chery subsidiary Omoda & Jaecoo ranked on the table of South Africa’s top 10 automakers, it’s interesting to note the Omoda C5 was effectively pushed off the Chinese-car podium into 4th. Still, sales of the crossover improved 4.6% month on month to 884 units, which was enough for it to grab a place on the list of SA’s 10 best-selling passenger vehicles, too.
The GWM P-Series (including both the P300 and P500) was the only light-commercial vehicle to feature here. For the record, the P-Series climbed to a new high of 4th place on the list of Mzansi’s top-selling bakkies in April, even though sales dipped 25.1% month on month (admittedly from a record 785 units in March) to 588 units.
Fully electric Dolphin Surf breaks into top 10
Meanwhile, the Chery Tiggo 7 (425 units) enjoyed a 46.6% month-on-month increase in sales in April to grab 6th place on this list, finishing in front of the Haval H6, which in contrast endured a 4.8% month-on-month decline to 413 units. The Jetour Dashing (305 units; down 26.3% month on month) ended up in 8th position.
But the big news towards the bottom of the table was the arrival of the BYD Dolphin Surf, which ranked 9th in April. In the end, the Chinese new-energy vehicle (NEV) company registered 302 units (up 26.4% compared to March) of this fully electric hatchback, seeing it slot in just ahead of the Jetour T1 (299 units; down 31.6% month on month).
SA’s 10 most popular Chinese vehicles in April 2026
Q: Which Chinese vehicle is currently the best-seller in South Africa?
A: The Chery Tiggo 4 (which includes the Tiggo 4 Pro and Tiggo Cross) is the most popular Chinese vehicle in South Africa, with 1 871 units registered in April 2026. Notably, it also became the first Chinese model to claim the title of the country’s best-selling passenger car overall (in a single month).
Q: Are there any fully electric vehicles (EVs) in the top 10 Chinese car rankings?
A: Yes. The BYD Dolphin Surf, a fully electric hatchback, made history by breaking into the top 10 in April 2026. It ranked 9th overall with 302 units sold, representing a significant milestone for new-energy vehicles (NEVs) in the local market.
Q: What is behind the surge in Jetour T2 sales and what are the brand’s local plans?
A: The Jetour T2 experienced the strongest growth in the top 10, with sales surging 55.4% month-on-month to 1 004 units, securing a 3rd-place spot. Jetour has also confirmed that the T2 will be produced locally starting in 2027 at the Rosslyn factory.
Fuel efficiency is an important factor to consider when buying a car. But what are the fuel-efficient family SUVs under R400k? Here are 10 budget-friendly fuel efficient family SUVs to consider.
SUVs must offer spaciousness, practicality, performance, efficiency, ride comfort and features. How do you choose from all the fuel efficient family SUVs under R400k, that offer the best balance of features and running costs? With new car prices and fuel costs rising dramatically in a short space of time, more and more buyers are buying down or looking in the used car market in an effort to find a more affordable mobility solution.
Anyone that’s considering taking the leap to purchase a car will have to think about the operating costs (maintenance, insurance etc.) of that vehicle, including fuel costs. Fuel efficiency is therefore an important factor to consider whether you are buying a new or used car.
So, if fuel efficiency is important to you and you have a budget of up to R400 000 to spend on a used family SUV, then this list will help you find one! We have used our knowledge in the market to identify 10 fuel efficient used family SUVs under R400k.
Note that only cars between 2018 to 2023 (5 years old) are considered and this list is not exhaustive. If you are unsure about how much you are able to afford to spend on a car then we suggest you use our new Car Affordability Calculator and you can also work our estimated monthly premiums using your Finance Calculator.
Fuel efficient family SUVs under R400 000
1. Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0TDI (5.2 L/100km)
Gravel travel capable version of the Golf7, with some of the most advanced engineering of any vehicle in its class. Of the 10 fuel efficient used family SUVs under R400k, the Tiguan is one of the best to drive, with true German engineering excellence.
The second-gen Tiguan set new standards for ride, handling and driving experience when it arrived in South Africa in 2017. VW might have transitioned away from the turbodiesel engines that once made up most of its powertrain line-up, but many second-gen Tiguan 2.0 TDis are still in the pre-owned market.
These 2-litre turbodiesel Tiguans offer an excellent combination of cruising performance and economy. And because they are turbocharged, you lose almost no power on the Highveld.
There are many price and power options, too, because VW offered three versions of the 2.0 TDI engine in its second-gen Tiguan. The mildest version had 81 kW and 280 Nm, with diesel consumption of only 5.2 L/100km in ideal conditions. This version is also only available with a six-speed manual gearbox, which is easier to maintain long term than VW’s DSG transmissions.
The mid-range second-gen Tiguan 2.0 TDI has a lot more performance, at 105 kW and 340 Nm, but still consumes only 6.1 L/100km. If you want real open-road and long-distance driving performance, especially with a Tiguan fully loaded with passengers and luggage, there’s the high-output 2.0 TDI, with 130 kW and 380 Nm, an ideal condition consumption of only 6.4 L/100km.
The mid- and high-power second-gen Tiguan 2.0 TDis were only available with the 7-speed DSG transmission.
Rav4 is the best-selling vehicle in many of the world’s most important car markets, like America. Despite Rav4’s incredible commercial success and the huge amount of money that Toyota invests in its engineering and makes from its sales, there is no diesel Rav4 available anymore. That is why you might want to buy an older version…
The last version of the Rav4 to offer a turbodiesel engine was the fourth-gen, which was on sale from 2013-2019. These Rav4s, with their slick design, are valuable in the used market, especially because many buyers value the performance, economy and trusted Toyota build quality of its 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine.
The fourth-gen Rav4 turbodiesel makes 110 kW and 340 Nm. Those aren’t amazing engine outputs, but 340 Nm of torque is plenty when you need to keep speed up long Highveld inclines, in a fully loaded Rav4. But best of all is the economy equation, with Rav4 diesel manuals as low as 5.6 L/100km and automatic transmission versions at 6.5 L/100km.
You can easily find these desirable fourth-gen Rav4 turbodiesels for under R400 000, with parts and service kits widely available. Toyota’s huge sales success and scale in South Africa, along with its extensive dealer network, make aftersales service and support a real part of the value proposition when buying a Rav4. Of all the 10 fuel efficient used family SUVs under R400k on our list, Rav4 will probably lose the least value due to depreciation.
Mahindra’s XUV500 exited the local market in 2021, but many pre-owned models are still available. And they all offer a combination of bargain pricing and rugged performance, ideal for demanding South African road conditions.
With seating for seven and lots of standard features, the XUV500 offers a lot of value. It’s also powered by Mahindra’s proven 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine, which has done duty with distinction in the Indian brand’s bakkies. Farmers and other commercial customers throughout South Africa trust these engines, which have made Mahindra the fastest-growing bakkie brand in South Africa. That means in an SUV like the XUV500, the Mahindra 2.2 turbodiesel should prove very durable.
The XUV500’s 2.2 turbodiesel isn’t very powerful, at only 103 kW, but it has 330 Nm of torque. There are two transmission options, both with 6-speeds, but the manual has better fuel consumption potential than the automatic.
If you choose your gear shifts carefully and manage the XUV500’s momentum in traffic and on the highway, you can get 6.5 L/100km. The Mahindra’s 2.2 turbodiesel engine might be powerful, but it’s very durable. Because Mahindra has an established presence in South Africa, with so many of its bakkies running the 2.2 turbodiesel engine, parts availability is good, and service support is reasonably well distributed throughout the country.
Often mispronounced but well regarded, the Hyundai Tucson was one of South Africa’s favourite mid-size SUVs before the flood of Chinese models entered over the last two years.
One thing Tucson always offered that Chinese brands don’t, is turbodiesel power. And that’s where the third-gen Tucsons are such an interesting buy. Available from 2015-2020, these Tucsons were available with two turbodiesel engine options, both capable of incredibly low fuel consumption at highway cruising speeds.
The real pre-owned Tucson turbodiesel bargain is the smaller 1.7 CRDi. Power isn’t amazing at 85 kW, but torque is decent at 280 Nm, which should flatten even the steepest Highveld hills and gradients without issue.
Hyundai’s Tucson 1.7 CRDi features an easy-to-maintain 6-speed manual gearbox. And if you are smart about shifting at the right intervals and conserving momentum, average cruising diesel consumption can drop to 6.8 L/100km. That is some of the best consumption of any fuel efficient family SUVs under R400k.
If you want great overtaking performance and economy, Hyundai’s second-gen 2.0 CRDi turbodiesel is an excellent used buy. With 131 kW and 400 Nm, it delivers very confident highway performance, and the 6-speed automatic transmission has an economy-minded shift pattern, which can average diesel consumption in the mid-7s.
The Mazda CX-5 is an excellent family car and the naturally-aspirated 2.0-litre petrol engine with 121 kW and 213 Nm and mated with a 6-speed manual transmission is a particularly fuel-efficient combination.
Sure, the CX-5 loses a lot of power and performance at altitude on the Highveld. But because it’s not turbocharged, the claimed fuel consumption is very close to what you get in real-world driving. And then there’s the benefit of a naturally aspirated petrol engine, like the CX-5’s 2-litre, being a lot more durable and cheaper to service in the long term.
If design matters and petrol economy matter to you, the CX-5 is possibly the best looking fuel efficient family SUVs under R400k on our list.
Chery’s Tiggo 7 Pro is proving very popular in South Africa and while it’s slightly smaller than your typical Tucson or RAV4 family car, it’s bigger than your typical compact family SUV (T-Cross/Ecosport/Venue etc.) and it therefore straddles that boundary and we think it deserves a shout on this list.
Tiggo 7 Pro’s commercial success in the market means there’s a growing supply of pre-owned versions becoming available, at prices below R400 000.
The Tiggo 7 Pro is powered by a 1.5-litre turbopetrol engine. It makes 108 kW and 210 Nm and is paired with a CVT, offering a good balance of highway performance at altitude, but also reasonable petrol consumption. If you are looking for a bang-for-buck family SUV then we’d say this is a solid choice. For 7-seat capability, the larger Tiggo 8 Pro is also available, but it’s slightly more expensive.
The Opel Grandland X offers good value in the used-car market, and for under R400k there are several well-priced, low-mileage units on offer.
The Grandland X is powered by a 1.6-litre turbopetrol engine with 121 kW and 240 Nm, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. With that turbocharged engine, you don’t lose performance on the Highveld, the Grandland X offers a good balance between acceleration and fuel consumption, especially if you drive with gentle throttle inputs.
If you like the idea of Opel’s brand legacy in South Africa and don’t want to drive one of the mainstream Japanese, Korean or Chinese brands, the Grandland X is Opel’s outlier option in the segment.
The Peugeot 3008 is a hugely underrated family car in the South African market, and it’s one of the more stylish options to consider. If you value everything that’s great about distinctive French car design, the 3008 has a lot of appeal.
An updated 3008 arrived in South Africa back in 2021. A cousin of the Opel Grandland X, the 3008 is powered by the same 1.6-litre turbopetrol engine shared across many Opel and Peugeot models. With 121 kW and 240 Nm, performance is decent, even if you live in Gauteng’s thinner air, where the turbocharger compensates for any power loss.
Paried with a 6-speed automatic transmission, the 3008 is very undemanding to drive in hectic urban commuter traffic. And like all French cars, it has very comfy ride quality.
Honda’s previous-generation CR-V has a proven reputation in South Africa. These Hondas are known for their build quality and mechanical durability and that is why they are on our list of fuel efficient family SUVs under R400k
Unlike Honda’s current CR-V, the previous-gen version features a naturally aspirated 2.0-litre petrol engine with 113 kW and 189 Nm of torque, and it comes with a CVT.
Not being turbocharged does make it a bit slow on the Highveld, where the real power loss from altitude is significant. But without a turbocharger, the CR-V has very consistent fuel consumption and excellent long-term durability.
Haval’s wildly popular Jolion has played a significant role in establishing Chinese brand equity in the South African car market. The Jolion has been a huge success since its launch. Offering a sensibly sized family car package, with good cabin space, and a lot of features for a very competitive price. This is one of the best equipped fuel efficient family SUVs under R400k.
Another big selling point with Jolion, is its engine. The Haval uses 1.5-litre turbocharged engine with 105 kW and 210 Nm of torque, paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Being turbocharged, it offers consistent performance on the Highveld, unlike non-turbo engines, which loses a lot of power and overtaking performance at altitude.
Run-flats are designed to get you home safely if your tyre is losing air. That’s if home isn’t too far away… Here we look at the pros and cons of run-flat tyres within a South African context.
Run-flat tyres were designed to solve a European luxury car problem. What happens if you start losing air and don’t want to stop and change the tyre, because stopping next to a highway is dangerous and illegal in parts of Europe? The engineered solution was the run-flat tyre.
But run-flat tyres, locally pioneered by BMW with the E90 3 Series, were created for a driving environment very different from South Africa’s. In Europe, the driving distances between home, office, social venues and garage forecourts are much shorter than in South Africa. The run-flat tyre principle was a convenience feature. You could drive a few kilometres home safely, then worry about tyre replacement the next day.
In South Africa, these special tyres have enormous safety benefits, but some of our roads also complicate the issue.
Here we’ve created an all-you-need-to-know guide about the tyres that can get you home when they’ve run out of air. We also touch on the important question of run-flat tyres and their use on bakkies and ladder-frame SUVs. This is worth thinking about because many traditional German luxury sedan buyers have now become double-cab and SUV owners. The run-flat tyre options for these vehicles are not quite the same as those for a German luxury sedan.
How do run-flat tyres work?
BMW was an early run-flat pioneer and continues to offer extensive run-flat options.
Lots of very clever mechanical and chemical engineering. The concept is very simple: A tyre supports your vehicle’s weight through a combination of its structural integrity, which is the tyre sidewall, and the volume of air inside it.
When you lose the support of that air on a conventional tyre, the sidewall is too weak to carry the vehicle’s corner-load weight on its own. To address this issue, a run-flat tyre is over-engineered by a significant margin. Its sidewalls are much stronger and use materials with greater heat resistance because when the total loading on those sidewalls increases, they heat up and risk deformation and failure.
How well do run-flats work? In ideal scenarios, like on an unloaded vehicle driving along a perfectly smooth highway at less than 80 kph, a run-flat allows you to drive for up to 80 km. That’s a real benefit in Gauteng, or if you are on the N2 in Cape Town. But if you are in the middle of nowhere in the Northern Cape?
Run-flat tyres prevent catastrophic blowouts
To survive a South African pothole strike, you need an off-road tyre or run-flats.
Gauteng and greater Cape Town often look like a permanent construction site. That means lots of fasteners (like bolts, nails and screws) that fall off during transportation and end up on the road surface. This building debris, especially fasteners, is a huge risk to tyres.
Run-flats are great at preventing that nail-in-the-tyre annoyance from becoming a total disaster. Stopping next to a South African highway to change a flat tyre, especially at night, is a huge risk. With run-flats, you can keep driving and get home.
Aside from avoiding the personal security hazard of having to stop in a high-risk area to change a tyre, a run-flat tyre has another real benefit: preventing high-speed blowouts. Not all vehicles driving at highway speeds in South Africa have tyre-pressure-monitoring systems. These sensors warn you when you have a tyre suddenly losing pressure and is at risk of suffering a structural collapse. A ‘blowout’ at highway cruising speeds, especially if it is a front tyre on the steered axle, can be catastrophic and very hard to control.
If you have a slow puncture on one of your tyres and don’t have a tyre-pressure-monitoring system to warn you the tyre is deflating, a run-flat will prevent that tyre from sudden and complete structural collapse.
Why aren’t all tyres run-flats?
High-volume run-flat tyres exist but all-terrain casing options are limited.
If run-flats are so good at reducing the risk of being stranded next to a highway or avoiding a blowout, why aren’t they standard across most new vehicles?
Like everything in automotive engineering, run-flat tyres have compromises. The first is cost. Compared to a conventionally structured tyre of the same size, rubber compound and tread pattern, run-flats are more expensive.
The second issue is weight. Run-flats are engineered to carry the full load of a car when deflated, creating heavier tyres. That means a lot more rotational/unsprung weight, increasing fuel consumption.
Those overengineered run-flat sidewalls can also mean a harsher ride quality. Because the sidewalls are designed to be much stronger than those of a conventional tyre, they have less vertical bump absorption. That means run-flats have an impact on ride quality.
For South African buyer preferences and travel conditions, run-flats also have specific limitations that don’t apply to Europe…
Run-flat tyres and double-cabs/rugged SUVs
Bakkie drivers want tall sidewalls that flex at low pressure, exactly what run-flats aren’t capable of doing…
South Africa’s most popular vehicle is the Toyota Hilux. South Africa’s most popular full-size SUV is its 5-door twin, the Fortuner. Double-cab bakkies and body-on-frame SUVs are popular family vehicles in South Africa because they are tough and versatile. They’re capable of journeying with ease on the most challenging, corrugated dirt roads.
Part of what makes double-cab bakkies and body-on-frame SUVs so good for all-terrain road trips is the tyres they use. Usually, they’re large-volume, all-terrain tyres. You’ll really struggle to find run-flat tyres in the sizes that work on double cabs or body-on-frame SUVs.
Another issue is the feature that makes a run-flat what it is – that ultra-rigid sidewall – is exactly what double-cab bakkie and SUV drivers don’t want. Why? Well, large-volume all-terrain tyres need a sidewall that can deform. This allows the tyre to create that elongated tread pattern when aired down. This increases traction, a crucial need for nearly all double-cab bakkie drivers who venture out of the city.
In comparison, run-flats don’t allow the tread pattern to elongate when aired down, making them unsuitable for off-road drivers.
Run-flat tyres in SA conditions
South African luxury double cabs go places European tyre engineers can’t imagine.
Possibly the biggest challenge for the use of run-flats in South Africa is our country’s amazing dirt road network. Nearly every great family road trip includes a long dirt road. And dirt roads don’t play nice with run flats.
On severe gravel routes, you want high-volume tyre casings with tall, flexible sidewalls that absorb corrugation shocks. The rigid sidewall structure of a run-flat does exactly the opposite. It transfers all the corrugation harshness to the suspension components and therefore the cabin.
Then there’s the issue of what happens during longer driving distances on poor rural roads. Once they run out of air pressure, run-flat tyres impose speed and distance limitations. At 80 kph for 80 km, a deflated run-flat tyre might not get you to the next town in the Karoo or Northern Cape. And that’s under ideal conditions on a smooth highway…
Local dirt roads are harsh on tyres. A family vehicle at its gross vehicle-mass limit (fully loaded with passengers and cargo) will severely test a run-flat tyre’s ability to reach the full 80 km driving distance.
For urban use on passenger vehicles such as sedans, crossovers and monocoque SUVs, run-flat tyres hold real-world safety benefits. And that makes them worth the cost. However, be mindful of how vulnerable they can be if you’re planning a road trip involving a lot of dirt-road driving.
