Toyota Land Cruiser 70 Series (2024) Launch Review

Does the addition of the Hilux-sourced 4-cylinder engine, mated with a 6-speed auto transmission, add a new dimension to, or detract from, the Toyota Land Cruiser 70 Series’ cult status? Nicol Louw went on a safari in the Limpopo province to find out.

Throughout the past 4 decades, the Land Cruiser 70 Series has well and truly proven itself as a vehicle “capable of conquering Africa”. Suffice it to say, Toyota has applied changes to the J70 Land Cruiser rather sparingly – the Aichi-based brand is, understandably, reluctant to tamper with a winning formula.

This facelift to the J70 encompasses more than the usual cosmetic and specification updates, however. For 2024, the Land Cruiser 70 Series incorporates the Hilux’s 2.8-litre 4-cylinder GD-6 turbodiesel engine – arguably, most importantly – in conjunction with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

The 2024 Land Cruiser 70 Series’ front-end styling takes inspiration from the J40-generation model.

The introduction of the gearbox is particularly significant because, although an automatic transmission conversion was available in the aftermarket for J70s powered by the 4.5-litre V8 turbodiesel engine, it never had the approval of Toyota Japan… and was simply too expensive for most owners to consider.

So, could this new introduction be the Land Cruiser 70 Series that we have all been waiting for?

What is new with the Land Cruiser 70 Series?

In terms of the newcomer’s appearance, Toyota’s designers have tapped into the Land Cruiser heritage; the front, in particular, draws inspiration from the J40-generation model. Gone are the square headlights – they’ve been replaced with round units – and the bumper has grown into a larger, one-piece slab.

The revised front-end treatment includes round headlamps and a one-piece black bumper.

The bonnet, in turn, now sports a pair of power bulges, which reminds me of the Land Cruiser 300‘s “clamshell hood”, and it slopes upward towards the windscreen. Other updated elements include the dark-coloured alloy wheels and cosmetic changes to the rear section of the station wagon variant.

Inside, the centre console shows the biggest update: the automatic shifter sits on a raised platform made of black plastic and off-set cupholders have been added. The unit is best described as, um, “functional”.

The Land Cruiser 70 Series’ interior remains largely unchanged, but the transmission lever is mounted quite high.

The dashboard, with that famous digital clock still in place above the updated infotainment touchscreen, will be quite familiar to 70 Series aficionados. It is a pity there is no knob for the volume adjustment, but ‘Cruiser owners may appreciate that the manual, lever-operated climate control system remains in situ.

The station wagon variant, meanwhile, gains USB ports, cruise control and carpet trim, while the pick-up must make do without those creature comforts – indeed, it has a rough vinyl floor covering. Both body styles get a new Hilux-sourced steering wheel with rake- as well as reach adjustment.

A VX derivative, which will offer a modicum of luxury (including leather upholstery), a bull bar and other external cosmetic trim additions, will be available soon, Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) says.

The 2.8GD-6 4-cylinder motor promises much better fuel consumption (and longer tank range) than a V8-powered derivative.

The battle of the engines

The main question is: How does the 2.8-litre motor stack up against the 4.5-litre V8? Very well, in fact – it only produces 1 kW less (150 kW), but trumps the larger unit by 70 Nm (500 Nm). The fact that it is also lighter, more fuel efficient (and, therefore, kinder to the environment) made its introduction a no-brainer.

Will loyal supporters of the V8 be willing to relinquish that baritone burble and naughty induction noises in favour of a more refined powertrain? Well, they have a while to make up their minds… According to TSAM vice president Glenn Crompton, the V8 engine will be offered in the Land Cruiser 70 Series for at least the next 2 years. That is good news for the off-roading diehards who also prefer shifting manually.

The 4-cylinder-engined Land Cruiser 70 Series easily cruises at the national speed limit and has overtaking grunt in reserve.

What is the Land Cruiser 70 Series like to drive?

Although we travelled more than 600 km in the Land Cruiser 70 Series during the launch event, it barely took 10 meters (not much more than exiting the parking lot at Toyota HQ in Sandton) to realise the benefit of the automatic transmission. The turning circle still matches that of an oil tanker, but moving from “P” to “D” is so much simpler than giving your left calf muscle a workout – are we getting soft?

As expected, stop-start traffic is much easier to contend with and the Toyota’s acceleration on the onramp joining the N1 north was surprisingly brisk, considering the 2.8GD-6’s reduced engine capacity.

Consumers can look forward to a “luxuriously specced” Land Cruiser 79 VX derivative.

In short, this is the most user-friendly and sprightly 70 Series I have experienced. Cruising at the national speed limit is a doddle and it’s easier to perform overtaking manoeuvres at those speeds than in the stick-shift 4.5-litre V8. I would go so far as to say that the 2.8GD-6 would outperform its V8 counterpart in most on-road scenarios. Think of it as a tougher Hilux with a firmer suspension… and more wind noise.

Subjectively, the station wagon’s suspension felt more pliant, but the ride quality was far from supremely comfortable – the downside of having two solid axles. It is, however, possible to consider the LC76 as a more robust family alternative to the popular Fortuner (sans some of the luxury and safety equipment).

The Land Cruiser 70 Series features an updated touchscreen infotainment system, but the digital clock remains.

And off-road?

The Toyota comes into its own where paved roads end and the going gets tough. There were numerous opportunities to view wildlife in the Lepogo resort and the Land Cruiser 70 Series offered excellent all-round visibility courtesy of its large glass areas (ah, one of the lasting benefits of a 40-year-old design).

A short off-road section presented a chance to engage low range (with the traditional short lever on the transmission tunnel, of course). Again, the automatic transmission came into its own and made it almost too easy to traverse obstacles in our path. The 2.8-litre engine provided a metered and smooth torque response with more than enough poke in reserve, although some lag was noticeable at pullaways.

The provision of an automatic transmission may not please 4×4 fundis, but it makes simple off-roading a doddle.

The test route was not an “all diff-locks engaged” type of challenge, but I am sure that this new-for-2024 powertrain would take a Grade 5 course in its stride. My only real gripe was that the Toyota’s aircon struggled to keep the cabin cool at low engine speeds when the ambient temperature was about 35°C.

How much does a Land Cruiser 70 Series cost in SA?

All Land Cruiser 76, 78 and 79 derivatives come with a 3-year/100 000km warranty. A service plan is optional, however.

Single cab 
LC79 4.0 Petrol S/C 5MT                  R765 500
LC79 4.2 Diesel S/C 5MT                       R829 000
LC79 4.5 Diesel V8 S/C 5MT                 R956 200
LC79 2.8 GD-6 Diesel S/C 6AT              R917 100
  
Double Cab 
LC79 4.0 Petrol D/C 5MT                       R864 600
LC79 4.2 Diesel D/C 5MT                      R920 800
LC79 4.5 Diesel V8 D/C 5MT                     R1 039 200
LC79 2.8 GD-6 Diesel D/C 6AT                    R1 009 000
  
Station wagon 
LC78 4.2 Diesel SW 5MT         R900 100
LC76 4.5 Diesel SW 5MT                          R1 076 800
LC76 2.8 GD-6 Diesel SW 6AT                     R999 900
LC 76 2.8 GD-6 VX Diesel SW 6AT                TBC

Summary

I was sceptical when I heard about the Hilux’s 4-cylinder engine being transplanted in the Land Cruiser 70 Series, but I am now convinced the 2.8 litre more than plays its part in contemporising the J70 model. There is no doubt that the market yearned for an automatic version and it has transformed the vehicle.

The fact that the ol’ Cruiser’s 130-litre fuel tank was barely below half full after the 600-km trip, which included some off-roading, speaks for itself (there is no claimed fuel consumption figure, but 10 L/100 km should be attainable). Welcome to a new, downsized era for the Land Cruiser 70 Series – it’s great.

If you don’t agree, go for a test drive. You won’t have to drive far to appreciate that new auto ‘box…

Search for a new/used Toyota Land Cruiser listed for sale on Cars.co.za

6th Gen Honda CR-V (2024) Price & Specs

The 6th-generation Honda CR-V has been launched in South Africa. Here’s how much you can expect to pay for it and what you get for your money.

The Honda CR-V is one of those legacy products that continues to perform well in terms of sales globally. The battle for segment supremacy between it, the Toyota RAV4, Volkswagen Tiguan and Mazda CX-5 is set to continue.

Under the skin is an enhanced version of its global architecture platform, with a focus on ride quality, handling and refinement. The new car is 115 mm longer and 10 mm wider in comparison to the outgoing model, and the wheelbase has increased by 40 mm, which will enhance cabin space which is great as the CR-V features 7 seats. There’s been some under the skin work to the suspension, which is said to have been retuned for additional comfort. Honda has also added active noise cancellation to drown out road noise.

6th Gen Honda CR-V rear

Honda South Africa will be offering its new CR-V in two levels of trim; Exclusive and Executive. Both models are front-wheel driven and are powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine which has outputs of 140 kW and 240 Nm, and the vehicle has a continuously variable transmission. Honda says this engine has been updated to improve its efficiency and enhanced power delivery.

Honda CR-V Grade Walk

Executive

  • Black leather seats with 8-way driver adjustability and heating
  • 18-inch wheels
  • HD 9-inch colour touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • Wireless charging pad
  • 7-inch colour TFT display
  • CR-V-first Hill Descent Control
  • Anti-lock disc brakes with EBD and Brake Assist
  • Honda Sensing with front sensor camera and radar for forward collision warning and collision mitigation
  • Updated adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist
  • 8 airbags

Exclusive

  • 19-inch wheels
  • Panoramic sunroof
  • Sportier body styling
  • 10.2-inch all-digital instrument cluster
  • Driver heads-up display
6th Gen Honda CR-V front

How much does the new 6th Gen Honda CR-V cost in South Africa?

The new 6th Gen Honda CR-V ships with a 5-year/ 90 000 km service plan, 5-year/ 200 000 km warranty and 3 year’s of AA roadside assistance.

1.5T Exclusive FWD R1 039 900  

1.5T Executive FWD R   959 900

Want to purchase a new or used Honda? Browse stock for sale

How well is BAIC selling in SA? The latest sales figures

Chinese firm BAIC has suddenly started reporting individual model sales figures to Naamsa. Here’s how many vehicles the brand sold in South Africa in January 2024…

Though the BAIC brand established itself in South Africa as long ago as 2016 (with its first model launching the following year), the Chinese firm has only just started to report individual model sales figures to industry representative body Naamsa, beginning with January 2024.

So, just how well is BAIC South Africa – the local subsidiary of the Chinese state-owned BAIC Group, which traces its roots back some 66 years – selling in Mzansi at the moment?

The Beijing X55 was BAIC’s best seller last month.

Well, BAIC registered 295 new vehicles across the country in January 2024, ranking 18th on the list of SA’s best-selling automotive groups overall. For the record, that’s 2 units more than Honda managed last month and 7 units short of Mazda’s total. It was also enough to put BAIC in 14th place in the passenger-vehicle segment.

Though the Chinese brand once offered the D20 hatch and D20 sedan as well as the X25 crossover in South Africa, its local range currently comprises just a pair of nameplates: the B40 Plus (which is known as the “BJ40” in some markets but was christened “B40” instead when it landed in SA in October 2021) and the Beijing X55 (which touched down in November 2022).

Just 17 units of the B40 Plus were sold in SA in January.

In January, the Beijing X55 accounted for more than 94% of the company’s registrations, finishing the month on 278 units. The B40 Plus, meanwhile, had to settle for just 17 units. Interestingly, all 295 new vehicles were sold via the dealer channel.

As a reminder, the 3-strong Beijing X55 range (with each derivative employing a 130 kW/305 Nm turbocharged 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine) kicks off at R429 900, while the B40 Plus portfolio comprises 5 variants, running from R574 500 to R699 500. The latter model is available in turbopetrol and turbodiesel guise, with each engine displacing 2.0 litres.

Long promised, the B80 (known as the BJ80 in some parts of the world) has yet to launch in Mzansi.

BAIC South Africa has been threatening to launch the B80 – which bears more than just a passing resemblance to the Mercedes-Benz G-Class – for quite some time (back in August 2022, the company suggested the launch was planned for October of that year), but this model has yet to materialise.

In mid-2023, the company announced it had 38 dealerships nationwide, adding that it hoped to reach 50 outlets “by the end of 2023” (the current number is unknown as BAIC SA’s website was down at the time of writing). BAIC SA also said plans were “underway to increase the production capacity” of its assembly plant in the Coega industrial development zone in Gqeberha, which has reportedly seen very little action since the joint-venture operation with the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) commenced back in 2016.

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Audi RS3 Engine Swap on a VW Tiguan: Brutal-Sounding Family Car Sleeper

One of the most eye-catching cars from 2023’s VW Campfest, this Tiguan family car packs some serious punch courtesy of the Audi RS3 engine at its heart. Watch the video and listen to this VW Tiguan RSR purr!

The raucous Tiguan ‘RSR’ as it is named also has a customised body kit which pays particular attention to the beading around the doors and bumpers creating a fully-blacked-out design the owner was going for. 

The build also included an air suspension kit that allows the car to sit really low for show purposes. Check out the video and let us know in the comments what you think of this Tiguan build…  

Buy a used Volkswagen Tiguan on Cars.co.za

2024 Ford Ranger vs VW Amarok Video – Which one should you buy?

Ford Ranger or Volkswagen Amarok? It’s a question many new double-cab bakkie buyers are faced with. In this video, Ciro De Siena takes a closer look at both cars to help you in your decision-making process. Watch the video!

In the world of modern motoring, a model life of 10 years is an eternity. The Volkswagen Amarok arrived on the global scene over ten years ago and while it was initially derided for its small capacity 2.0-litre engine, over time it garnered respect and proved itself to be the real deal; a proper pick-up/bakkie that is now quite sought after on the used car market in South Africa.

However, with the pivot to electric vehicles draining VW’s R&D budgets, Volkswagen needed some help with the next-generation Amarok if they were to keep the nameplate alive.

And so they turned to Ford, and now the global market has these twin bakkies to choose from, as under the skin the Amarok is identical to the Ford Ranger, employing the chassis and entire drivetrain from the Ranger. Interestingly, both cars are proudly South African, the Ford Ranger is built in the Ford Silverton plant outside Pretoria, which is the only place in the world where the new Amarok is manufactured.

In this video, the result of our team of journalists putting together a massive 6-bakkie shoot-out in 2023, we compare the 2.0 Amarok Style variant to the Ford Ranger XLT. While the Amarok does feature a bit more creature comforts, the reality is that it is over R100,000 more expensive than the Ranger, at least at list price.

So, which one should you buy? We hope this video helps, and we’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments. See you there!

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Mazda CX-5 Range To Be Trimmed: No More Manual, Diesel or AWD

South Africa’s popular Mazda CX-5 range will soon be reduced to a trio of FWD derivatives, with both the 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine and 2.5-litre petrol mill set to be axed, along with the manual gearbox…

The Mazda CX-5 range will soon no longer comprise 6 derivatives in South Africa, with the Japanese firm’s local division set to cut the line-up in half, according to Cars.co.za sources. As a reminder, the Mazda3 range was handed a similar treatment in August 2023.

So, the soon-to-be-rationalised CX-5 portfolio – which will also likely gain a smattering of minor updates – will thus number just 3 variants, each powered by the familiar naturally aspirated 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine. This 121 kW/213 Nm motor will drive the front wheels via a 6-speed automatic transmission as standard.

The updated Mazda CX-5 range will be auto only and FWD only.

Yes, that means both the CX-5 2.5 AWD Individual (143 kW/258 Nm) and the CX-5 2.2DE AWD Akera (140 kW/450 Nm) – which were positioned at the top of the local range – will soon be put out to pasture. In addition, our information suggests the entry-level CX-5 2.0 Active with its 6-speed manual gearbox will be discontinued, too.

At the same time, the entry point to new CX-5 ownership will rise from outgoing manual model’s R524 600 to R551 000 for the updated CX-5 2.0 Active 6AT. Next up will be the CX-5 2.0 Dynamic 6AT (R586 500), with the CX-5 2.0 Carbon Edition 6AT set to graduate to the summit of the line-up at R664 800.

For the record, the soon-to-depart CX-5 2.5 AWD Individual is currently priced at R742 300, with the CX-5 2.2DE AWD Akera pegged at R778 700. While Mazda Southern Africa hasn’t yet revealed why these derivatives are on the chopping block, it’s worth noting their retirements will afford the CX-60 line-up with a little more breathing room (the CX-60 2.5 Dynamic starts at R739 800 and the CX-60 2.5 AWD Individual at R844 500, with the CX-60 3.3D AWD Takumi sitting at R1 049 200).

Expect a new Platinum Quartz paint colour to become available.

Still, it’s an interesting move considering the CX-5 was easily Mazda SA’s strongest seller in 2023, with a total of 1 369 units registered. The CX-3 was a distant 2nd on 765 units, followed by the Mazda2 (715 units), Mazda3 (251 units), CX-30 (242 units), CX-60 (220 units) and BT-50 (69 units). Of course, it’s worth keeping in mind the CX-60 hit the market only in the 2nd quarter of last year.

In the coming days or weeks, we suspect Mazda Southern Africa will release official information on the subtle updates made to the remaining CX-5 derivatives, as well as confirming the rationalisation of the range. Expect tweaks to the exterior paint colour palette (which will likely gain the new Platinum Quartz hue) and a few minor interior revisions (such as some infotainment upgrades, perhaps).

How much does the Mazda CX-5 cost in South Africa?

Mazda CX-5 2.0 Active 6AT – R551 000

Mazda CX-5 2.0 Dynamic 6AT – R586 500

Mazda CX-5 2.0 Carbon Edition 6AT – R664 800

A 3-year/unlimited kilometre warranty and a service plan of the same duration will likely again ship standard.

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Ford Ranger Tremor (2024) Price & Specs

Ford has released fresh details on its new Ranger Tremor ahead of its imminent local launch, billing this latest derivative as a “more affordable” alternative to the Wildtrak X. Here’s how much you can expect to pay.

Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa recently confirmed it would further expand its burgeoning bakkie range with the launch of the new Ranger Tremor. Now the Blue Oval brand has released details and pricing for this off-road-ready double-cab derivative, which it bills as a “more affordable” alternative to the Wildtrak X.

That said, the new likewise Silverton-built Ranger Tremor scores all the “enhanced” off-road capabilities of the Wildtrak X, including a full-time 4-wheel-drive system, the so-called “Trail Turn Assist” feature (ostensibly allowing the bakkie to deal with tighter off-road turns) and the self-explanatory Pro Trailer Backup Assist with Trailer Reverse Guidance (which has since been rolled out to the Wildtrak X and Raptor, and will be standard on the upcoming Platinum, too).

The list of standard kit also includes a steel bash plate, steel underbody protection (for the engine, transfer case and fuel tank), 2 front-mounted tow hooks, cast-aluminium side steps and a tubular sports bar. The suspension system features Bilstein position-sensitive dampers along with a 24 mm increase in ground clearance and a 30 mm wider track.

As a reminder, the Ranger Tremor employs Ford’s familiar 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder bi-turbodiesel engine, which delivers 154 kW and 500 Nm to all 4 wheels via a 10-speed automatic transmission as standard. Disc brakes are fitted all round.

So, what else sets the Tremor apart from the XLT on which it’s based? Well, the special model gains a black honeycomb grille (equipped with the same auxiliary LEDs as the Wildtrak X), along with “Bolder Grey” exterior detailing for the areas such as the lower sections of the front bumper, the fender vents, side-mirror caps, exterior door handles, rear bumper and wheel-arch extensions.

The Tremor additionally boasts General Grabber AT3 all-terrain tyres (265/70 R17) with white lettering, wrapped round 17-inch “Asphalt Black” machine-faced alloy wheels. There’s also the requisite “Tremor” badge on the tailgate and fairly subtle “Tremor” decals on the flanks, along with black Ford logos, fore and aft (just like the Wildtrak X and Raptor).

Inside, you’ll find “water-resistant” black vinyl trim, along with with “Tremor” logos embroidered (in orange) on the seatbacks. Vinyl flooring replaces traditional carpets, while roof-mounted auxiliary switches are standard.

As with the Wildtrak X, the Tremor is equipped with the Off-road SYNC Screen featuring a 360-degree camera system, resulting in the ditching of the XLT’s 10.1-inch touchscreen in favour of the 12-inch version. Wireless charging is also standard, along with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The Ranger Tremor will be available in Conquer Grey exterior paint (a hue previously limited to the Raptor) as well as Agate Black, Carbonised Grey, Frozen White, Lucid Red, Blue Lightning and Iconic Silver (the latter replacing Moondust Silver in the Ranger colour palette).

How much does the new Ford Ranger Tremor cost in South Africa?

Ranger Tremor Double Cab 2.0L BiT 4WD 10AT – R977 500 (indicative)

The price includes a 4-year/120 000 km warranty, a 4-year/unlimited km roadside assistance and a 5-year/unlimited km corrosion warranty. The recommended service interval is 15 000 km or annually, whichever occurs first.

As a reminder, Ford has unbundled its service plans but does optionally offer cover up to 8 years or 135 000 km.

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Cars.co.za and Absa expand marketplace for #CarsAwards finalist brands with consumer roadshow

It was recently announced that Cars.co.za and Absa have partnered to take South Africa’s most authoritative automotive industry awards, the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards – often referred to as #CarsAwards – into a bold and innovative future. For the first time ever, a South African motoring awards programme will seek to actively promote and facilitate sales by taking all 39 finalist vehicles “to the people” with a first-of-its-kind Consumer Awards Roadshow.

The gala event on 29 February will announce the winners in the 13 product categories but will also be the kick-off for the new 4-day Consumer Awards Roadshow in Sandton City Mall from 29 February to 3 March. All 39 vehicles selected as finalists will go on display under one roof, giving over 50 000 visitors per day at the Mall the unique opportunity to inspect and test drive the country’s best cars for themselves. More importantly, dealers representing the finalist brands, and which are taking part in the activation, will be able to sell right there and then, too.

The finalists will be showcased at the mall immediately after the Awards ceremony.

“We’re incredibly excited to be working with Absa – as well as our dealer and OEM partners – to put together this incredible event,” says Amasi Mwela, Managing Director of Cars.co.za. “Our collaboration with Absa reinforces our dedication to providing consumers with a platform that is not just about making informed purchasing decisions but also about delivering a remarkable automotive experience. With this project we give consumers everything they need to make a decision, and connect dealers and consumers in a way never seen before.”

“At Absa we pride ourselves on being a bank that plays a supportive role across the breadth of the automotive industry, with our deep understanding of the sector’s opportunities, enabling us to serve beyond the financial transactions we facilitate,” says Charl Potgieter, Managing Executive: Absa Vehicle and Asset Finance. “We recognise the importance of fostering strong partnerships with like-minded stakeholders and we are thrilled to offer South Africans the Consumer Awards Roadshow, in partnership with Cars.co.za. Our approach is collaborative and this initiative is a key point of alignment between ourselves, innovators and leaders across the automotive value chain to drive positive change for consumers. Together, we can navigate the complexities of today’s market and pave the way for a more sustainable and prosperous future.”

Mall attendees will be able to See, Try and Buy all the vehicles at the mall event.

This Cars.co.za Consumer Awards Roadshow builds on a similar event Cars.co.za hosted at the Mall of Africa in November last year. Following 2 days of intensive testing by 20 respected judges at the Gerotek test facility in Gauteng, all 39 vehicles were driven into the Mall of Africa and put on display. “The success of the Mall of Africa activation laid the foundation of this new Awards Roadshow,” says Mwela. “The video footage shows how consumers appreciated the opportunity to inspect and, most importantly, compare cars at the Mall.”

“We invite new-car dealers, specifically those who represent the finalist brands, to contact us about participating in this unique project,” Mwela concludes. “It would be the perfect opportunity to offer special deals to further entice consumers into one of the finalist vehicles.”

Dealers can make contact with Cars.co.za about the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards Roadshow by emailing [email protected].

For further information about the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa, visit https://www.cars.co.za/content/carsawards/. 

Mercedes-Benz GLS (2024) Price & Specs

The facelifted Mercedes-Benz GLS range – including the mighty Mercedes-AMG GLS63 – is coming to South Africa this year. Here’s an early look at local pricing…

We’ve already brought you local pricing for the updated Mercedes-Maybach GLS600 flagship, so now we’ll turn out attention to the rest of the facelifted Mercedes-Benz GLS range, including the mighty Mercedes-AMG GLS63.

Judging by Mercedes-Benz SA’s configurator, the GLS400d will fall away, to be replaced by the GLS450d. The latter’s 3.0-litre straight-6 turbodiesel engine – which sends 270 kW and 750 Nm to all 4 wheels – features 48-volt mild-hybrid technology, which adds 15 kW and 200 Nm for brief periods.

Mercedes-Benz GLS
In SA, the “standard” GLS will be offered in both 450d and 580 guise.

The GLS450d is priced from R2 175 787 (plus R90 900 should you desire the AMG Line trim), though note that this figure – like the ones below – excludes the cost of a maintenance plan, which the customer “shall be entitled to include in the purchase”, according to Mercedes-Benz SA’s website.

Next up is the GLS580, which kicks off at R2 731 574. This likewise all-wheel-drive derivative’s turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 petrol engine has had its peak outputs hiked from the pre-facelift model’s 360 kW and 700 Nm to 380 kW and 730 Nm. The 8-cylinder unit furthermore features a mild-hybrid system capable of adding 16 kW and 250 Nm for short bursts.

The Mercedes-AMG GLS63 retains its electrified V8 powertrain.

Finally, there’s the refreshed Mercedes-AMG GLS63, which is priced from R4 041 630. Affalterbach’s electrified 4.0-litre V8 again makes 450 kW and 850 Nm, with the integrated starter generator briefly adding 16 kW and 250 Nm. The 0-100 kph sprint is completed in a claimed 4.2 seconds, with top speed electronically limited to 280 kph.

Of course, various equipment packages as well as individual options are available for each of the 3 derivatives above. The Mercedes-AMG GLS63 can additionally be specified with the AMG Night Package for an extra R20 300.

The Mercedes-AMG GLS63 will hit 100 kph from standstill in a claimed 4.2 seconds.

As a reminder, the updated latest Mercedes‑Benz GLS scores a revised grille, along with what the Stuttgart-based firm terms a “visually more prominent” front bumper. Round back, you’ll find updated taillights, while the profile is defined by new light-alloy wheel designs.

Inside, there’s an updated version of the MBUX infotainment system, along with the latest-generation steering wheel (with touch controls on the spokes) and new trim colours.

How much does the facelifted Mercedes-Benz GLS cost in SA?

Mercedes-Benz GLS450d 4Matic – R2 175 787

Mercedes-Benz GLS580 4Matic – R2 731 574

Mercedes-AMG GLS63 4Matic+ – R4 041 630

According to the Mercedes-Benz SA configurator, the prices above include VAT and emissions tax, though exclude the cost of a maintenance plan which the customer “shall be entitled to include in the purchase”. According to duoporta.com, the inclusive prices are R2 321 550, R2 873 237 and R4 239 730, respectively.

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Mercedes-Maybach GLS600 (2024) Price & Specs

The facelifted Mercedes-Maybach GLS600 is headed to South Africa, including in special “Night Series” guise. Here’s how much the latest version of Benz’s most luxurious SUV will cost you…

The facelifted Mercedes-Benz GLS range was revealed in April 2023 and is scheduled to arrive in South Africa later this year. But we’ve already discovered local pricing for the most luxurious version of all: the Mercedes-Maybach GLS600 4Matic.

According to Mercedes-Benz SA’s configurator, the refreshed GLS600 will be priced from R4 341 326 (note this figure excludes the cost of a maintenance plan, which the customer “shall be entitled to include in the purchase”. The inclusive price, according to duoporta.com, is R4 532 941). For the record, the outgoing pre-facelift version was last listed for R3 864 689 (including a motor plan).

The GLS600 specified with the new Night Series package.

In addition, the updated Mercedes-Maybach GLS600 will be available locally with a new “Night Series” package, at the cost of R568 000 (thus pushing the price to R4 909 326, excluding the motor plan). This brings a raft of exterior design elements in dark chrome with rose gold details, along with items like 23-inch 7-spoke light-alloy wheels and a string of upgrades to the already high-end cabin.

Further options for the GLS600 include the a 2-tone paint job (up to R380 000), the Manufaktur leather package (R277 100), various alloy wheel designs (up to R125 000), the “First-Class” rear compartment package (R65 000), a holder for champagne flutes (R41 500), a wood-and-leather finish for the steering wheel (R12 000) and an uprated Burmester 3D surround-sound system (R91 300).

Mercedes-Maybach GLS600 cabin
A view from the rear quarters.

As a reminder, the GLS600 is powered by a twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 petrol engine worth 410 kW and 730 Nm, while a 48-volt mild-hybrid system is capable of delivering an additional 16 kW and 250 Nm for brief periods. Drive is delivered to all 4 corners via Benz’s 9G-Tronic transmission. While the global press site lists a 0-100 kph time of 4.2 seconds, Mercedes-Benz SA has a figure of 4.9 seconds for the GLS600.  

The Maybach-badged GLS600 benefits from the same sort of mid-cycle updates as the broader Mercedes-Benz GLS range, gaining items like a new lower grille with chrome surrounds, revised air intakes and fresh wheel designs. Inside, updates include new upholstery options and the latest steering-wheel design.

How much does the Mercedes-Maybach GLS600 cost in SA?

Mercedes-Maybach GLS600 4Matic – R4 341 326

Mercedes-Maybach GLS600 4Matic Night Series – R4 909 326

According to the Mercedes-Benz SA configurator, the prices above include VAT and emissions tax, though exclude the cost of a maintenance plan which the customer “shall be entitled to include in the purchase”.

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