Refreshed Toyota Hilux revealed overseas

The Toyota Hilux has been handed revised exterior styling overseas, with the biggest change for the popular bakkie being a refreshed front-end design…

Yes, the Toyota Hilux has been handed another subtle exterior styling revision. For now, this freshened-up version of the popular Japanese bakkie has been confirmed only for the Australian market.

In fact, the updated Hilux is scheduled to hit the market Down Under as soon as March 2024, with the 48V mild-hybrid derivatives joining the range at the same time. So far, just 2 (seemingly computer-generated) images have been released.

What does this mean for Mzansi? Well, Toyota South Africa Motors told Cars.co.za that “Hilux model timing often differs between markets and in addition, different markets may apply cosmetic packages at market-specific timing”, before adding “our range remains unaltered at present”. So, perhaps South Africa will see these updates a little further down the line…

*A closer look at the refreshed front end of the Hilux.*

On that note, it’s worth keeping in mind that our Hilux models are built locally at Prospecton in KwaZulu-Natal, while Australia sources its units from Thailand. As an aside, however, the widebody Hilux GR Sport III and 48V derivatives have already been confirmed for a March 2024 launch in South Africa.

So, what exactly is new with this Aussie-spec version? Well, in addition to some specification enhancements, the Hilux’s updated face features a new-look grille and front bumper. These are combined in what Toyota describes as an “interlocking design with an octagonal grille, trapezoidal lower section and bold outer bumper”.

On certain derivatives in Australia, the refreshed Hilux furthermore scores a black upper grille mould, dark-tinted LED headlamp clusters and a gloss-black finish for items like the front foglamp bezels, side-mirror caps and exterior door handles. Lower-spec variants Down Under, meanwhile, gain a black honeycomb mesh grille paired with a black lower and body-coloured side bumper finish.

*The refreshed version on the left and the SA-spec Raider on the right.*

As a reminder, the mild-hybrid option offered in conjunction with the double-cab body style is based on the widely used 2.8-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine (with 6-speed automatic transmission) but with 48V technology.

The oil-burning engine drives a compact motor generator using a belt system, which in turn charges the lithium battery installed under the rear seats (it is positioned here to “minimise” impact on cabin space, says the automaker). According to Toyota, the 48V battery weighs 7.6 kg and also supplies the vehicle’s 12V system via a new DC-DC converter.

The battery is charged during deceleration, effectively regenerating braking energy which would otherwise be lost, while also ostensibly adding braking performance. When fully charged, the 48V battery can deliver up to 12 kW and 65 Nm through the motor generator to the engine, to “enhance acceleration, power and efficiency”.

*The widebody Hilux GR Sport III is set to launch in SA in March 2024.*

Of course, this is in addition to the 4-pot’s standard outputs of 150 kW and 500 Nm. Should these hybrid outputs be available alongside the peak figures of the turbodiesel engine (which Toyota has not confirmed), total system outputs would theoretically stand at 162 kW and 565 Nm.

In South Africa, the 48V option will be available on all Hilux 2.8-litre 6AT Raider and Legend models, as well as on 2.8-litre versions of the Fortuner.

2024 World Car Finalists Announced

The 2024 World Car Finalists in the World Car Awards competition have been announced. Here’s a look at who’s made the grade across 6 categories on the global stage.

The World Car of the Year powered by Brembo is a global competition, with over 100 judges from 29 countries assessing the vehicles.

The number of finalists will be narrowed down to the Top Three in the World to be announced – live – at the Geneva International Motor Show (GIMS) on the 26th February 2024. The winners will be announced at the 2024 New York International Auto Show.

The overall winner will be chosen from an initial list of 38 entries. As a reminder, our very own Hannes Oosthuizen is a judge in this global competition and he shares his thoughts on this year’s entries.

“The Korean brands Hyundai and Kia continue their strong performance in this competition in recent years, with multiple nominations. It is also interesting to see a Chinese brand (BYD) make the top 10. For me the most interesting category is probably Urban Car this year, where the Suzuki Fronx, based on the relatively old Baleno underpinnings and developed for a nation such as ours, competes against a cutting-edge new urban electric car, the Volvo EX30,” he said.

Overall 2024 World Car Finalists

BYD Seal / Atto 4
Ford Bronco
Hyundai Kona / Kona Electric
Hyundai Santa Fe
Kia EV9
Mazda CX-90
Subaru Crosstrek
Toyota Prius
Volkswagen ID.7
Volvo EX30

World Electric Vehicle

BMW i5
Kia EV9
Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV
Volkswagen ID.7
Volvo EX30

World Luxury Car

BMW 5 Series / i5
Lexus LM
Mercedes-Benz CLE
Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV

World Performance Car

BMW M2
BMW XM
Ferrari Purosangue
Hyundai Ioniq 5 N
Porsche Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid

World Urban Car

Abarth 500e
BYD Dolphin
Lexus LBX
Suzuki Fronx
Volvo EX30

World Car Design of the Year

Ford Bronco
Ferrari Purosangue
Toyota Prius
Volvo EX30
Zeekr X

Here’s how many hybrids Toyota sold in South Africa in 2023

Just how well received are Toyota’s hybrids in South Africa? Well, let’s take a closer look at local sales of the Japanese firm’s dual-powered models in 2023 to find out…

Toyota South Africa Motors says sales of its hybrids increased 22% year on year in 2023. According to the Japanese firm’s local division, registrations of its dual-powered derivatives improved from 3 320 units in 2022 to 4 054 units last year.

The company shared the intriguing sales figures at its recent State of the Motor Industry (SOMI) 2024 event at Kyalami in Gauteng. A slide shown during the presentation indicated that the Corolla Cross Hybrid – Mzansi’s most affordable hybrid, currently starting from R486 100 in XS guise – accounted for the bulk of these sales.

*More than half of RAV4 sales in SA last year were hybrid derivatives.*

Indeed, with 3 059 registrations, the Corolla Cross Hybrid represented more than 75% of the Toyota brand’s total hybrid sales in 2023. As an aside, since the Corolla Cross nameplate finished the year on 22 592 units (enough for it to take 2nd place on the list of SA’s best-selling passenger cars), we can calculate that hybrid derivatives accounted for 13.5% of the crossover’s final tally.

Despite seemingly grappling with supply constraints, the RAV4 Hybrid was next for Toyota South Africa Motors, finishing 2023 on 590 units (or, rather fascinatingly, a considerable 53.6% of total RAV4 sales). Then came the Corolla Hatch Hybrid (204 units or 54.3% of all Corolla hatchback registrations), followed by the Corolla Sedan Hybrid (180 units or 31.2% of all Corolla Sedan sales).

*Toyota also offers dual-powered versions of the Corolla hatch and sedan.*

The Crown Crossover Hybrid – which Toyota has not yet formally launched in South Africa – and the since-discontinued Prius made up the numbers with 13 units and 8 units, respectively. For the record, our dataset (based on Naamsa figures) suggests 7 units of the Prius were registered locally last year. It’s also important to note that the above statistics don’t include hybrid sales from the Lexus stable (a whopping 42.5% of the luxury brand’s registrations came in the form of hybrids last year).

As a reminder, Toyota was South Africa’s best-selling automaker in 2023, growing its tally by 8.0% year on year to a hefty 142 612 units (including Lexus and Hino sales). Having now led Mzansi’s new-vehicle market for 44 years on the trot, the Japanese giant’s market share surged to 26.8% (yes, that’s more than 1 in 4 vehicles sold), the highest on record.

2023/24 CarsAwards Finalists: Best Entry-Level Crossover in SA

Meet the 3 finalists in the Entry-Level Crossover category of the 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa. The winner of this #CarsAwards category will be announced on 29 February 2024.

The 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa is the 7th iteration of SA’s definitive consumer-driven automotive awards programme that aims to identify the best new vehicles on sale in Mzansi across 13 categories.

Judges first compiled a list of 65 semi-finalists – then trimmed it to 39 finalists. Following that, all #CarsAwards finalist vehicles were subjected to a rigorous 2-day test at Gerotek at the beginning of November 2023, after which they starred in the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards Roadshow at the Mall of Africa where, for the first time, the public could experience the cars – and meet the judges – in the flesh.

See the complete list: 2023/24 CarsAwards – The 39 finalists

The Entry-Level Crossover category

South African new-vehicle buyers now prefer crossovers over hatchbacks, sedans and MPVs. This category represents the entry point to SUV-inspired vehicles with a modicum of raised ride height. Besides additional body cladding and ground clearance (‘kerb-hopping capability’), practicality and spaciousness are important considerations, but so are safety, technology, fuel efficiency and flexibility.

This category is guided by both eligibility factors and pillars of success.

Eligibility factors for this category include a list price between R300 000 and R400 000 at the time of semi-finalist voting (September 1, 2023), ABS, electronic stability control (ESC), a minimum of 4 airbags, split-folding rear seats, air conditioning and a service plan.

Pillars of success for this category include engine flexibility, fuel economy, space and practicality, comfort and safety.

Best Entry-Level Crossovers: CarsAwards Finalists

Chery Tiggo 4 Pro 1.5 Elite Auto

Chery hopes to emulate fellow Chinese brand Haval’s rapid ascent up the new-vehicle sales charts and, based on the strengths of its Tiggo lineup, it’s well on the way to doing that. The distinctively styled Tiggo 4 Pro comes well-appointed at the price, features a punchy 1.5-litre turbopetrol engine and quality materials abound in the cabin. The Chery is positioned as an affordable car, but it doesn’t feel like one.

Price & Specs

Read a review of the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro

Find a Chery Tiggo 4 Pro for sale on Cars.co.za

Haval Jolion 1.5T Premium

When the Haval brand arrived in South Africa in 2017, it made an immediate impact with the feature-packed H2 compact family car and its successor – the Jolion – ticks even more boxes as a modern, connected, practical and well-thought-out entry-level crossover. The 1.5T Premium offers a plethora of features at the price, stands out in a segment known for cars that lack a bit of flair, and feels upmarket.

Price & Specs

Read a review of the Haval Jolion

Find a Haval Jolion for sale on Cars.co.za

Suzuki Grand Vitara 1.5 GLX manual

Suzuki is renowned for offering great value for money at the budget end of the market. While some may feel that the Grand Vitara name was better suited to the last model that wore it (which had notable off-road ability), the 2023 Grand Vitara is undeniably a much more accomplished offering than its successor, the good – if rather basic – Vitara Brezza. It has a “bulletproof” engine that balances willing performance with admirable efficiency, a spacious cabin and, in GLX trim, comes generously specced with features.

Price & Specs

Watch a Video Review of the Suzuki Grand Vitara

Find a Suzuki Grand Vitara for sale on Cars.co.za

More about the #CarsAwards

The winners of the 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa (as well as the recipient of the prestigious Brand of the Year title) will be named on 29 February 2024.

Follow the #CarsAwards on Cars.co.za, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok.

2025 BMW 4 Series Facelift Unveiled

The 2025 BMW 4 Series has been given a facelift, with an updated look, more interior tech and the introduction of hybrid engines. Here’s a first look.

The 2025 BMW 4 Series range comprises a coupe, convertible and four-door Gran Coupe, but today’s release focuses on the first two models.

Visually, that polarising grille is retained, but that’s okay as we think everyone has become used to it. There are new lights, with new Laserlight tail lamps. First seen on the M range, these rear lights look epic.

Other changes to both the coupe and the convertible include new wheel designs and more colours added to the palette, like the Vegas Red metallic you see here. Lower spec models get matte chrome access on the front, while the performance-focused M440i gets a gloss black grille with subtle M badging.

Climb inside and you’ll notice a redesigned steering wheel with shift paddles and illuminated switchgear. The curved display infotainment screen has been upgraded to iDrive 8.5 and the ambient lighting system has been tweaked.

Under the bonnet, the engines get new mild hybrid technology and BMW says there’s been a “edesign of the intake ports and combustion chambers and innovations in the areas of camshaft control, injection, ignition system, and exhaust gas routing.” Still, outputs remain the same.

The 430i’s 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine makes 190 kW and 400 Nm, with power driving the rear wheels via an 8-speed automatic. The M440i’s hybrid system makes 8 kW and 200 Nm for short bursts and combined with the 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-6 petrol engine, a combined output of 288 kW and 539 Nm is on offer, which is an interesting claim from BMW. Currently, BMW SA says the pre-facelift M440i offers up 285 kW and 500 Nm. Expect a 0-100 kph sprint in around 4.5 seconds.

When will the 2025 BMW 4 Series come to South Africa?

The vehicles are set to be launched globally in March and BMW South Africa confirmed the new arrivals will be touching in SA showrooms in the third quarter of 2024.

Want to purchase a new or used BMW? Browse stock here

All the latest BMW news and reviews

Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe (2023) Price & Specs

The 2nd-generation Mercedes-Benz GLC coupe has landed in South Africa. Here’s a look at pricing and specifications for this stylish newcomer.

The Mercedes-Benz GLC coupe is a sportier-looking version of the standard SUV. With a tapered roofline and sporty side profile, the GLC coupe is pitched against the Audi Q5 Sportback and BMW X4.

Physically, this new model is 31 mm longer and 5 mm higher than the outgoing version. There’s more boot space on offer with the GLC coupe offering 545 litres (45 litres more) and if you fold the rear seats down, 1 490 litres is on offer which is an increase of 90 litres. All models feature an electronically-powered tailgate.

Engines and Transmission

The new Mercedes-Benz GLC coupe features a mild-hybrid system that includes a 2nd-gen integrated starter-generator and 48-volt onboard electrical system. This assists the internal-combustion engine and reduces fuel consumption, and the start/stop functionality is near-instant.

There’s just one engine on offer, available in two power outputs. The GLC 220d has 162 kW and 440 Nm, while the GLC 300d packs 215 kW and 550 Nm. Both vehicles feature a 9-speed automatic transmission and 4Matic all-wheel drive. Both diesels are claimed to be reasonably efficient, with the 220d sipping between 5.1-5.8 L/100 km, while the 300d consumes 5.5-6.1 L/100 km. They’re not sluggish when it comes to performance either; the 220d is said to hit 100 kph in just 8.1 seconds and the 300d going even quicker with a 6.4 second dash.

Trim Levels

The new Mercedes-Benz GLC coupe is offered in Avantgarde spec, but customers can specify their vehicles with an AMG Line that adds sportier touches, like larger wheels. The GLC coupe is available with an assortment of wheel sizes and designs, with a range from 18- to 20-inches.

Inside, the new GLC coupe features the MBUX infotainment system, which comprises a 12.3-inch digital dashboard and an 11.9-inch portrait-style infotainment screen mounted centrally, but angled towards the driver.

Standard equipment is generous and appropriate at this price point. Things like smartphone integration, wireless device charger, heated seats, variable steering, offroad driving mode and an assortment of safety systems. On the options list, there are a few items of interest, like the air suspension system, rear-wheel steering and plenty of trim styles and exterior colours.

How much does the new Mercedes-Benz GLC coupe cost in South Africa?

The prices below include CO2 tax, VAT and a service/maintenance plan.

GLC 220d – R1 398 422

GLC 300d – R1 454 940

Facelifted BMW M4 Competition xDrive: more power, same grille

Meet the facelifted BMW M4 Competition xDrive! Though the controversial grille design has been carried over, the all-paw version of the high-performance 2-door model has gained even more power…

The facelifted BMW M4 Competition has broken cover, as part of the refreshed 4 Series range. While the Munich-based automaker has opted to retain the high-performance 2-door model’s divisive oversized grille design, it has also seen fit to hand the all-paw Competition variant’s straight-6 engine even more power.

Yes, the LCI (that’s Lifecycle Impulse, in BMW Speak) version of the G82-generation M4 Competition xDrive – which will again be available in both coupé and convertible form – has had its twin-turbo 3.0-litre inline-6 motor suitably uprated.

Again set to be manufactured at the BMW Group Dingolfing plant in Germany, the refreshed M4 family is scheduled to hit initial markets soon after production commences in March 2024. BMW Group South Africa says the facelifted 4 Series range is due to touch down in Mzansi in the 3rd quarter of the year.

While the standard M4 that isn’t offered in South Africa sticks with the 353 kW/550 Nm engine tune (and the likewise rear-driven Competition stays at 375 kW), the Competition-badged xDrive derivatives have had their peak power output hiked by 15 kW to 390 kW (on tap at 6,250 r/min). Though maximum torque is unchanged at 650 Nm, it’s now available over a slightly wider rev range (from 2 750 to 5 730 r/min).

As before, M4 Competition models employ an 8-speed M Steptronic transmission in conjunction with the German firm’s rear-biased xDrive all-wheel-drive system. The M4 Competition xDrive’s claimed 0-100 kph time remains 3.5 seconds, while the M4 Competition Convertible xDrive’s sprint likewise holds steady at 3.7 seconds. Top speed is listed as 250 kph, a figure that climbs to 280 kph (for the soft-top) or 290 kph (for the coupé) with the optional M Driver’s Package specified.

So, with the kidney grille design carried over, what has BMW changed on the exterior of the M4? Well, the LED headlights have been revised, while the LED taillights now feature laser technology and a likewise fresh layout.

Look even closer and BMW says you’ll notice a new design for the surrounding surface of the both the BMW logo and the M logo at the rear of the Competition models. In short, the base of the famous roundel is now finished in high-gloss black, while the M badge on the read lid gains a silver surround. As you can see in the accompanying images, BMW has also rolled out (thankfully optional) M design graphics for the coupé’s bonnet and the rear lid.

In addition, the M forged light-alloy wheels gain a new design, with Competition models using 19-inch items at the front and 20-inch items used the rear. Inside, you’ll find fresh steering-wheel designs (either a flat-bottomed leather-trimmed tiller or an Alcantara ‘wheel) and control elements as well as new materials for the instrument panel and interior trims.

Finally, there’s the latest version of the high-resolution BMW Curved Display, now based on the BMW Operating System 8.5. As a reminder, this set-up comprises a 12.3-inch display behind the steering wheel and a control monitor with a 14.9-inch diagonal.

2025 Audi Q7 Facelift Revealed

This is the 2025 Audi Q7 facelift, which receives a number of upgrades to keep it relevant in a competitive market. Here’s a look at the changes.

The Audi Q7 has been with us since 2015 and the German carmaker has released a second facelift for the premium SUV in an effort to keep pace with the ever-changing luxury SUV market.

Visually, the updated model features a revised front end with a tweaked grille and new headlights. While some versions of these headlights will be optional, Audi says its new laser diode headlights offer increased distance at night. There will also be light signatures which can be customised. We’ve already had a first taste of the new headlight technology in the facelifted Audi Q8, which we drove late last year.

There will be new colours for the 2025 Audi Q7 facelift, like the Ascari Blue (pictured here) as well as Chili Red and Sakhir Gold. New wheel options are also offered, with sizes ranging from 20 to 22 inches.

Audi has introduced updates to the car’s infotainment system and third-party apps like Spotify are able to plug directly through the vehicle.

Audi has confirmed the powertrain options for the Q7 facelift and it follows a similar pattern to the engines of the Audi Q8 facelift. There will be a 3.0-litre turbocharged diesel V6 available in two states of tune; 170 kW / 500 N and 210 kW / 600 Nm. A petrol turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 brings 250 kW and 500 Nm to the table, and for the performance fans, the SQ7 has a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 with 372 kW and 770 Nm. The Audi Q7 will come with quattro permanent all-wheel drive and an 8-speed Tiptronic transmission.

When will the 2025 Audi Q7 Facelift come to South Africa?

An Audi South Africa representative confirmed the facelifted Q7 will be touching down on our shores in October 2024. Pricing, specifications and engine lineup will be confirmed closer to launch.

Mitsubishi Outlander range expanded to 5 models

The Mitsubishi Outlander range will be growing to five models, with a brand-new flagship derivative. Here are specs and pricing.

The Mitsubishi Outlander is a large family SUV which has seating for 7. Before this recent announcement, the lineup comprises two derivatives, which has now been increased to five.

The Mitsubishi Outlander range is powered by a 2.5-litre naturally-aspirated petrol engine that makes 135 kW and 245 Nm. There’s a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with 8 simulated speeds. All derivatives feature all-wheel drive, and with 210 mm of ground clearance and modes, the Outlander has the offroad go to match the show. Mitsubishi claims a fuel consumption figure of 8.1 L/100 km.

Mitsubishi Outlander Range Comparison

All Mitsubishi Outlanders feature seven airbags, ABS, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Emergency Stop signal system, Hill Start Assist, and Hill Descent Control as well as Active Stability and Traction Control.

GL

18-inch alloy wheels
LED day running lights
Rear-view camera
Front and rear parking sensors
Heated door mirrors
Heated seats
Synthetic leather with suede combination
Push start button
Cruise control
ESS (Emergency Stop System)
Seven-inch driver display
Eight-inch SDA with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

GLS

20-inch alloy wheels
Digital speedometer
12.3-inch digital driver display
Powered lift tailgate
Auto-dimming rear-view mirror
Keyless operation system
Front rain sensing wipers
Automatic headlights with dusk sensor
Headlight washer
Front LED side turn signals and front LED fog lamps
Three-zone automatic climate control (front dual-zone)
Rear USB port

GLS Plus

Multi Around Monitor

Aspire

Powered panoramic sunroof
Door mirrors with position memory
Leather seats with seat memory
Eight-way power adjustable and power lumbar support seats
Bigger nine-inch SDA with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and built-in navigation.

Exceed

Smartphone wireless charger
BOSE Premium sound system with 10 speakers
Multi around view monitor
Door mirrors with position memory and reverse auto tilt
Pull-up sunshade

How much does the Mitsubishi Outlander range cost in South Africa?

The entire Outlander model range is covered by a 3 year/ 100 000km manufacturer’s warranty, 5-year/90 000 km service plan and 5-year/ unlimited mileage roadside assistance. Service intervals are every 15 000 km.

Mitsubishi Outlander GL (New)	R699 995
Mitsubishi Outlander GLS	R759 995
Mitsubishi Outlander GLS Plus (New)	R769 995
Mitsubishi Outlander Aspire	R789 995
Mitsubishi Outlander Exceed (New)	R809 995

New Toyota Land Cruiser Prado: Full SA Line-Up Uncovered!

The new Toyota Land Cruiser Prado is due to launch in South Africa in April 2024, but we’ve already uncovered details of the local range. Here’s what you need to know…

The J250-generation Toyota Land Cruiser Prado was revealed back in August 2023, riding on a fresh platform and boasting a new retro-inspired exterior design. Now, ahead of this ladder-frame SUV’s highly anticipated touchdown in South Africa in April 2024, Cars.co.za has unearthed several details of the local line-up.

According to our information, the local Prado range will shrink slightly – from the current 5 derivatives to 3 variants – largely owing to the removal of the naturally aspirated 4.0-litre V6 petrol engine from the line-up. As such, all models will employ the Japanese firm’s familiar 2.8-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine.

Toyota Land Cruiser Prado First Edition — *The J250-generation Prado range will shrink slightly in SA.*

In J250-series Prado form, this well-known 1GD-FTV motor will again deliver 150 kW and 500 Nm to all 4 corners, though will switch from the outgoing model’s 6-speed automatic transmission to an 8-speed self-shifting gearbox. Braked towing capacity will remain at 3 000 kg. All derivatives will ride on 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 265/65 R18 tyres.

The Prado 2.8 GD TX will again serve as the entry point to the range, though we understand this derivative will lose its centre limited-slip differential. The TX is, however, in line to score a more comprehensive anti-theft system, as well as added safety features such as tyre-pressure monitoring, parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring, lane-trace assist, adaptive cruise control and extra airbags.

*TX and VX-R models will sport rectangular headlamps.*

Like all variants in the new range, the 2.8 GD TX derivative will come with a black finish for its front bumper, grille, side-mirror caps, rear bumper and wheel-arch mouldings. Inside, however, it will switch from a leather-and-fabric combination to straight leather (while also dropping its traditional handbrake lever in favour of an electric version).

With the VX and VX-L trim levels set to be scrapped, the new Prado 2.8 GD VX-R specification is up next. This grade will add items such as a moonroof, a heated steering wheel, a cooler box, wireless smartphone charging and adaptive high-beam headlamps. It appears set to do without adaptive variable suspension but will score a rear and centre torque-sensing limited-slip differential.

*First Edition headlights on the left, standard headlights on the right.*

Finally, there is the Prado 2.8 VX-R First Edition, which Toyota SA Motors says will arrive a little before the TX and VX-R. As we understand it, there will technically be 2 versions of the First Edition (1 in monotone form and the other in bi-tone guise), each based on the VX-R specification. First Edition models will be easily recognisable thanks to their circular headlamps.

In South Africa, First Edition variants will be offered in a choice of 4 exterior paint colours: Platinum Pearl White, Avant-Garde Bronze Metallic, Sand and Sand Bi-Tone (the latter featuring a white roof). Meanwhile, TX and VX-R models will also be available in Platinum Pearl White and Avant-Garde Bronze Metallic, along with Glacier White, Attitude Black, Black and Smokey Grey.

*The 2 faces of the new J250-generation Land Cruiser Prado.*

As a reminder, the new 7-seater Prado is underpinned by the same TNGA-F ladder-frame chassis as employed by the Land Cruiser 300. Our information suggests the SA-spec version will measure 5 105 mm from nose to tail, making it a considerable 95 mm longer than its predecessor. Also note the old hydraulic power steering will make way for an electric system.

Check back closer to the local launch date in April for pricing. For the record, the outgoing range is currently priced from R1 168 400 to R1 376 400. In the meantime, why not browse our selection of used J150-generation Prado listings?

New Toyota Land Cruiser Prado line-up for South Africa

Land Cruiser Prado 2.8 GD TX

Land Cruiser Prado 2.8 GD VX-R

Land Cruiser Prado 2.8 GD VX-R First Edition (also available in bi-tone)

We expect the new Prado to ship standard with Toyota’s 3-year/100 000 km warranty and a 9-service/90 000 km service plan.

Refreshed Toyota Hilux revealed overseas

The Toyota Hilux has been handed revised exterior styling overseas, with the biggest change for the popular bakkie being a refreshed front-end design…

Related content

2024 World Car Finalists Announced

The 2024 World Car Finalists in the World Car Awards competition have been announced. Here’s a look at who’s made the grade across 6 categories on the global stage.

Overall 2024 World Car Finalists

World Electric Vehicle

World Luxury Car

World Performance Car

World Urban Car

World Car Design of the Year

Further Reading

Here’s how many hybrids Toyota sold in South Africa in 2023

Just how well received are Toyota’s hybrids in South Africa? Well, let’s take a closer look at local sales of the Japanese firm’s dual-powered models in 2023 to find out…

Related content

2023/24 CarsAwards Finalists: Best Entry-Level Crossover in SA

Meet the 3 finalists in the Entry-Level Crossover category of the 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa. The winner of this #CarsAwards category will be announced on 29 February 2024.

The Entry-Level Crossover category

Best Entry-Level Crossovers: CarsAwards Finalists

Chery Tiggo 4 Pro 1.5 Elite Auto

Haval Jolion 1.5T Premium

Suzuki Grand Vitara 1.5 GLX manual

More about the #CarsAwards

2025 BMW 4 Series Facelift Unveiled

The 2025 BMW 4 Series has been given a facelift, with an updated look, more interior tech and the introduction of hybrid engines. Here’s a first look.

When will the 2025 BMW 4 Series come to South Africa?

Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe (2023) Price & Specs

The 2nd-generation Mercedes-Benz GLC coupe has landed in South Africa. Here’s a look at pricing and specifications for this stylish newcomer.

Engines and Transmission

Trim Levels

How much does the new Mercedes-Benz GLC coupe cost in South Africa?

Further Reading

Facelifted BMW M4 Competition xDrive: more power, same grille

Meet the facelifted BMW M4 Competition xDrive! Though the controversial grille design has been carried over, the all-paw version of the high-performance 2-door model has gained even more power…

Related content

2025 Audi Q7 Facelift Revealed

This is the 2025 Audi Q7 facelift, which receives a number of upgrades to keep it relevant in a competitive market. Here’s a look at the changes.

When will the 2025 Audi Q7 Facelift come to South Africa?

Further Reading

Mitsubishi Outlander range expanded to 5 models

The Mitsubishi Outlander range will be growing to five models, with a brand-new flagship derivative. Here are specs and pricing.

Mitsubishi Outlander Range Comparison

GL

GLS

GLS Plus

Aspire

Exceed

How much does the Mitsubishi Outlander range cost in South Africa?

Further Reading

New Toyota Land Cruiser Prado: Full SA Line-Up Uncovered!

The new Toyota Land Cruiser Prado is due to launch in South Africa in April 2024, but we’ve already uncovered details of the local range. Here’s what you need to know…

New Toyota Land Cruiser Prado line-up for South Africa

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