Sibling rivalry: Which Ford Everest V6 to choose

The Ford Everest is distinguished from other Adventure SUVs in various ways, such as having 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel variants in its line-up. But should buyers who need all that torque in their lives opt for a Platinum, or save money and get a Wildtrak instead?

It’s hard to believe the 3rd-gen Ford Everest has been around for more than 2 years. Like its predecessor, the Ford is still battling to knock the (now decade-old) Toyota Fortuner off its perch atop the sales charts despite the fact it’s a comparatively more advanced model than its Japanese rival. FMCSA doesn’t see it that way, though: it suggests the Ranger-based 7-seater is an alternative to the Land Cruiser Prado.

Ford Everest V6 in range-topping Platinum guise

Out of the starting blocks, at its launch, Ford went straight for the jugular by introducing a halo model that the Fortuner (and indeed the pricier new Prado) range so painfully lacks: a V6 turbodiesel engine, then solely fitted to the flagship Platinum derivative, which now retails for R1 278 000 (January 2025).

Six months later Ford added another V6-engined variant, but in Wildtrak trim. The variant, the subject of my recent Ford Everest Wildtrak (2024) Living with it article, is listed at R1 199 500 (January 2025).

Ford Everest V6 in 2nd-from-top Wildtrak guise

Under the skin, the sibling Ford Everest V6 derivatives are indistinguishable, which means both feature a maximum power output of 184 kW and 600 Nm of torque from a throaty 3.0-litre mill paired with a silky 10-speed auto transmission and permanent 4WD, deployable through 6 selectable traction modes.

The only real point of mechanical distinction is the Platinum’s choice of footwear – more “streetable” or “catwalk-friendly” 21-inch alloy rims with 275/45 tyres against the Wildtrak’s 20s (on 255/55s).

Ford Everest V6 Wildtrak alloy wheel

Although the variance in rubber size, amounting to a few millimetres horizontally and vertically, is seemingly insignificant, it’s one of the few tools available to Ford to characterise the allegedly more-adventure focused Wildtrak differently from the more urbane (by FMCSA’s admission) Platinum.

(To complicate matters that little more, dedicated all-terrain 18-inch tyres (255/65) are an optionally available factory-fit for both versions).

Platinum swops colourful stitching for more spec

It’s inside, where, mainly invisible owing to unseen tech features, the Platinum pulls off its more premium billing with greater credibility. Not that the Wildtrak is wanting, but then at 7 figures – it really shouldn’t.

Ford Everest V6 Wildtrak interior

The Ford Everest 3.0TD V6 4WD Wildtrak‘s long list of standard features includes dual-zone climate control, wireless charging pad and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity, keyless entry, leather seats (of with the front ones are electrically adjustable), a 12-inch infotainment touchscreen, automatic wipers and LED headlights with high-beam assist, lane keeping assist, blind spot warning, an electrically-powered tailgate, tow bar, dual sunroofs, reverse camera and FordPass telematics connectivity.

The Ford Everest 3.0TD V6 4WD Platinum (of which the front of the cabin is shown below) adds a 12.4-inch digital cluster, a 12-speaker B&O audio system, heated/vented front seats (with a memory function for the driver), a heated 2nd row and an electrically operated 3rd row of seats.

Ford Everest V6 Platinum interior

For the R78k saved by foregoing a Platinum, Wildtrak buyers also lose out on a heated ‘wheel, adaptive cruise control, a 360-degree camera system, automatic parking and trailer reversing assistance.

Of these – at a stretch, the climatic seats offer a welcome respite in extreme climates, but their absence is hardly a deal-breaker. The rest of the Platinum’s “over and above” features are, well, nice-to-haves.

Everest V6 decision time: Wildtrak or Platinum?

Unequivocally, the Wildtrak’s biggest appeal lies in the availability of a V6 engine at a marginally lower price. Ford could have specced it lower, say in Sport grade (which is solely available in conjunction with a 157 kW 2.0-litre 4-cylinder bi-turbodiesel powerplant for R1 079 500 (January 2025), but had the V6-powered Wildtrak been any cheaper, nobody would have given the Platinum flagship a 2nd look.

All of this leaves the Ford Everest 3.0TD V6 4WD Wildtrak in no man’s land as an almost accidental prodigy. It’s the girl next door rather than the cheerleader; the better-looking bridesmaid than the bride: both V6 variants are equally talented, but like for like – and, essentially, feature-per-rand – it’s hard to make a case for the Platinum when compared to the same-cylindered, similar-performing Wildtrak.

David Taylor discusses the finalists of the 2025 CarsAwards Adventure SUV category:

Only when viewed against the closer-priced Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, which starts at R1 296 300 (January 2025) and, crucially, lacks a V6 engine in its line-up (unlike its upcoming Lexus GX cousin), does the Ford Everest 3.0TD V6 4WD Platinum start to make more sense, rationally and financially.

We’ll wrap it up thus: Is the Ford Everest Platinum a knuckle-dragging Ford faithful’s fumble, or a thinking man’s Prado? I’ve told you which one I’d have, now put your money down and pick your path.

Find a new/used Ford Everest listed for sale on Cars.co.za

Related content:

Ford Everest Wildtrak (2024) Living with it

Will the new Ford Everest Tremor come to SA?

GWM Tank 500 vs Ford Everest: What Should You Buy?

Ford Everest Sport (2023) Review

Ford Everest (2023) Living with it

Ford Everest (2023) Review

Defender Octa (2025) International Launch Review

The Defender Octa demonstrates the extremes to which JLR’s engineers are willing to push the model to show how capable they can make it without compromising on- or off-road ability. We got to grips with it on the Cederberg’s endless gravel roads.

What is a Defender Octa?

Defender Octa in Rocks
With its wider track and higher ground clearance, the Octa is just about unstoppable off-road.

The name Octa comes from the shape of a diamond, a precious mineral that the brand hopes to emulate with the Defender’s hardiness and desirability. The Defender Octa is a showcase of what JLR can do with this platform and the types of technology it can incorporate to differentiate itself from rival brands.

This technology comes in the form of a sophisticated air suspension system (which I’ll go into later), a powerful V8 turbopetrol engine, as well as an Octa drive mode that allows for controlled launches on dirt (yes, you read that correctly) with an extra 50 Nm of torque available for those lightning fast pull aways.

To add to the uniqueness of the Octa, the model also gets a large price hike (it costs R3.5 million), a wider track (68 mm wider) and more ground clearance (28 mm higher). JLR says the Octa has been subjected to 1 300 more tests than the standard model, including more time on gravel at high speeds and on road durability.

Defender Octa Engine

Defender octa power
The BMW M-sourced V8 provides smooth and ample power delivery.

JLR may have shelved its venerable supercharged 5.0-litre V8, but that doesn’t mean it will be outdone in the power department – the 4.4-litre twin-turbopetrol V8 under its bonnet is sourced from BMW. The engine did duty in the previous generation BMW M5, X5 M and X6 M to mention a few models. With peak outputs of 467 kW and 750 Nm of torque (800 Nm in launch mode, remember?), the Defender Octa rockets when accelerating from any speed. Zero to 100 kph takes just 4.0 seconds! It’s mind-boggling how a 2.5-tonne SUV that’s essentially shaped like a Maersk container gets to 100 kph that quickly.

While there is plenty of power and torque on demand, the Defender Octa’s performance never feels brutal or uncontrollable, the linear acceleration and smooth V8 feel are perfectly matched to a car this size without making it feel like the engineers tried to make a performance SUV in the way Mercedes-Benz make a GLE 63 S or BMW make an X5 M. Compared with its Teutonic peers, the Octa uses its high-power delivery more subtly, and it’s also refreshing that JLR went the route of a higher capacity engine here. If it had opted for a 4-cylinder powerplant with a complex hybrid system, I don’t think it would have had the same smoothness and luxurious delivery even if the power outputs had been higher.

What’s the Octa like to drive?

Defender Octas
You can still add all the accessories to the Defender Octa.

Now, let me attempt to explain the Defender Octa’s trick suspension setup in the easiest way possible. Land Rover has always promoted air suspension and, as time has gone on, one would expect that JLR has made the systems better and more reliable (you hope). The Octa takes air suspension to another level. Where there would usually be a management system for compression and rebound, the Octa has a 3rd management system that controls pitch and roll. What this means is that the Octa does without anti-roll bars (stabiliser bars), which gives it better ground clearance and allows for more wheel articulation.

While quite a technical system, it’s immediately noticeable when you start driving the Defender Octa. Its body control on-road, especially on twistier routes, is excellent and then when you ramp the speed up on gravel it’s undeniably the most controlled riding vehicle I’ve ever experienced.

Over the 3 days of driving the Octa, we traversed the Cederberg mountain range multiple times. During this arduous journey, the newcomer traversed every kind of dirt road condition imaginable – from smooth to washboard to downright rocky – and the reduced body roll means you don’t get thrown around in the cabin nearly as much as in a traditional off-roader; it leaves you far less fatigued after long driving days.  

Octa in mud
The increased ground clearance improves the Octa’s wading depth to over 1 metre.

You can also engage Octa mode via a button on the bottom of the steering wheel, which to me felt like a Sport mode for gravel. It pumps up the engine and exhaust note and makes the throttle more responsive.

In a way, this is the closest you’re going to get to a Dakar spec Rally Raid car from a production vehicle. There were times when we truly “stretched the legs” of the Octa on the vast dirt roads, sliding the car into and out of the corners, exploring just how controlled the Octa’s body is under extreme conditions.

These almost abandoned areas represent a playground that doesn’t exist for performance cars outside of a race track. Obviously, if you get it wrong out here, there is little in the way of assistance or cell signal. Our Defender Octas were fitted with the optional Goodyear 3-ply casing 33-inch diameter tyres on 20-inch wheels that look like the design was borrowed from a Lancia Delta rally car (I am in favour of this).

Defender Octa interior upgrade

Defender Octa seats
The new sports seats with the khaki finish are less temperature-sensitive than leather.

Given its rarefied performance and abilities, the Octa has some special features inside. The seats have been upgraded to sports seats that offer more lateral support (for when you’re doing your best Dakar drift impression). The seats also have a new fabric finish, which is more breathable and comfortable in the heat than traditional leather.

Aside from that, the Octa isn’t much different from the standard vehicle on the inside. There’s plenty of space within the cabin to store things, a multitude of USB ports to charge devices and a fridge in the centre console, which is more than handy on those 40-degree days in the Cederberg! 

How much does a Defender Octa cost in SA?

Defender 110 P635 OctaR3 499 100
Defender 110 P635 Octa Edition OneR3 749 100

The prices (January 2025) include a 5-year/100 000 km warranty and a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan.

Summary

Octa landscape
Certainly more subtle the a G-Wagon but more comfortable and certainly just as capable.

The initial Defender Octa production run is limited to just 2 000 units, 50 of which have been earmarked for the South African market. The entire first production run has been sold, but there is the intention of creating more Octa production runs in the coming years. The Octa is a statement vehicle (or halo model) for Land Rover; it showcases what can be produced when the price point doesn’t need to be kept down. 

Its multi-terrain ability is 2nd to none and while we can’t yet speak to the reliability of its extremely fancy, but also extremely effective, air suspension, the body control and improvements and stonking V8 engine combine into a special, even bespoke, driving experience. In an era where it’s difficult to access the full performance capabilities of sportscars, the Octa raises the question: Can you have similar levels of fun off-road? The answer, found on the very empty roads and trails of the Cederberg, is a resounding: “Yes!”

Most Fuel Efficient Diesel Cars in SA (2025)

We’ve compiled a series of articles dedicated to fuel efficiency because it’s one of the most important criteria to factor into your decision when looking to buy a new car. Here are the most fuel efficient diesel cars currently available in South Africa!

The most fuel efficient diesel cars in South Africa are well worth considering, if you can afford them! With fuel prices consistently on the rise in South Africa, new car buyers will be wise to place increasing emphasis on fuel efficiency when shopping for a new car.

Also see: Most Fuel Efficient Petrol Cars in SA (2025)

A fuel-efficient car will help you save money at the pumps over time and diesel cars are generally considered to be more frugal than their petrol-powered counterparts. The amount of fuel you save while driving will depend on a number of critical factors including your driving style, road conditions and mechanical condition of the car, to name a few. It is also worth noting that the list below is compiled based on manufacturer claimed fuel consumption figures and real-world consumption will vary. 

Prices are accurate as of January 2025.

Most Fuel Efficient Diesel Cars in South Africa

1. Mercedes-Benz CLA 220d – 4.4 L/100km

The Mercedes-Benz CLA received a subtle facelift in 2023 and C220d is powered by a  2.0-litre turbodiesel engine that produces 140 kW and 400 Nm with a fuel efficiency claim of  4.4 L/100km. An 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission is standard. The CLA is offered in 2 trim guises including Progressive, priced from R969 256 and the AMG Line from R998 956.

Buy a Mercedes-Benz CLA on Cars.co.za

2. Mercedes-Benz A200d sedan – 4.5 L/100km

Most fuel efficient Diesel cars in SA

The facelifted Mercedes-Benz A200d sedan employs a 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine with 110 kW and 320 Nm and is paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Mercedes-Benz claims 4.5 L/100km.

The A200d Progressive sedan is priced from R970 614 while pricing for the A200d AMG Line starts from R1 000 314.

Buy a used Mercedes-Benz A-Class on Cars.co.za

3. Mercedes-Benz C220d – 4.7 L/100km

Mercedes-Benz claims the third position on this list with its 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine proving to be the most efficient, this time applied in the mild-hybrid C-Class sedan with 147 kW and 440 Nm and paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. This engine is said to return 4.7 L/100km.

Pricing for the Mercedes-Benz C-Class C220d starts from R1 134 587.

Also see: W205 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sedan (2014-2021) Buyer’s Guide

Buy a Mercedes-Benz C-Class on Cars.co.za

4. BMW 2 Series 218d and 220d – 4.8L/100km

BMW 2 Series

The new BMW 2 Series came to market in 2022 and the diesel-powered 218d and 220d are particularly efficient with BMW claiming 4.8L/100km.

The 2 Series can be had in either Gran coupe or Coupe guise and the 2.0-litre turbocharged 218d offers 110 kW and 350 Nm while the 220d offers 140 kW and 400 Nm. Both engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Pricing for the BMW 2 Series 218d Gran Coupe starts from R745 373 while the 220d Coupe is priced from R905 037.

Buy a BMW 2 Series on Cars.co.za


BMW 420d Coupe – 4.8 L/100km

BMW 4 Series

The BMW 420d Coupe employs the same 140 kW / 400 Nm 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine that’s found in the BMW 2 Series (see above) and it too is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The 4 Series is offered as a Coupe, Gran Coupe or Convertible.

BMW claims a fuel consumption figure of 4.8 L/100km for the 420d Coupe (priced from R1 045 373) while the 420d Gran Coupe (priced from R1 046 044) claims 5 L/100km.

Buy a BMW 4 Series on Cars.co.za

Renault Duster 1.5 DCi Zen Automatic – 4.8 L/100km

Renault Duster

An all-new Renault Duster is due to arrive in South Africa in coming weeks but the outgoing Duster is still listed for sale and the outgoing 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine has long been praised for its excellent fuel consumption and performance credentials. Power outputs for this engine are 80 kW and 250 Nm and Renault claims an impressive 4.8 L/100km when this engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic.

Pricing for the Renault Duster automatic starts from R451 999.

Buy a Renault Duster on Cars.co.za

BMW 3 Series 320d – 4.9 L/100km

BMW 3 Series LCI

An updated BMW 3 Series arrived in South Africa in October 2024 and the diesel-powered 320d delivers 140 kW and 400 Nm from its 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine and is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Note that this engine is also found in the BMW 2 Series and 4 Series (see above).

Pricing for the BMW 3 Series 320d starts from R960 877.

Buy a BMW 3 Series on Cars.co.za

Toyota Prado Arctic Trucks Revealed

With an assortment of offroading goodies fitted, the Toyota Prado Arctic Trucks AT37 looks ready for adventure! This is how you spend your Powerball winnings.

Unlike some aftermarket offroad specialists who simply bolt on larger wheels, the Toyota Prado Arctic Trucks has been substantially upgraded.

The standard suspension has been tossed out in favour of a new 2-way adjustable setup with longer-travel coilovers for the front, while new springs and dampers are fitted to the rear. This enhancement means there’s a suspension lift of 40 cm. These wheels are the biggest talking point, however.

The 17-inch Arctic Trucks wheels are wrapped in BFGoodrich T/A K03 rubber measuring 37-inches. These 37-inch tyres are the reason its called the AT37 and they’re so large, a special wide-body kit needed to be fitted to prevent the wheels from rubbing against the bodywork.

The work hasn’t stopped there as Arctic Trucks has re-engineered the ladder-frame chassis and bodywork, moving the rear axle a little further back and widening the overall track. The increased ground clearance and stability helps keep things comfortable, yet capable.

Mechanically, the powertrain remains the stock off-the-shelf Toyota item, but the speedometer gets a recalibration to account for the larger wheels and suspension. The cabin gets some posh carpeting and AT37 badging, and there are some branded mudflaps and rubberised side steps.

The Toyota Prado Arctic Trucks is just one of many vehicles created by the offroading specialists Arctic Trucks. The company was given massive exposure when TV show Top Gear took some specially-prepared Toyota Hilux Arctic Trucks on a polar adventure back in 2007. Locally, we’ve had the chance to drive both iterations of the Isuzu D-Max Arctic Trucks, and they’re formidable when the tar ends.

Pricing? Well, Arctic Trucks hasn’t yet said how much this little exercise costs, but as a reminder, you’ll need to fork out R1.3 million for the standard Prado.

Want to buy a new or used Toyota Prado? Browse vehicles for sale

Read all the latest Toyota news and reviews

Lexus RZ (2025) Price & Specs

The new Lexus RZ will soon launch as Toyota South Africa Motors’ first fully electric model. Here’s how much this 230 kW battery-powered crossover will cost you…

Toyota South Africa Motors is finally set to join the local fully electric segment with the imminent launch of the Lexus RZ. And we’ve managed to lay our paws on pricing ahead of this battery-powered crossover’s official market debut.

Yes, thanks to the ever-helpful vehicle-information specialists over at duoporta.com, we can confirm the following pricing for the 2 derivatives that are set to comprise the local Lexus RZ line-up: the RZ 450e EX will start at R1 583 100 and the RZ 450e SE will kick off at R1 756 600.

According to information we separately dug up, the higher-spec SE variant will launch first, with the EX expected to follow late in February 2025. From what we understand, only a “handful of units” have been allocated to South Africa owing to “limited global volume supply” (this model was, after all, initially scheduled to launch locally in 2024 after being revealed globally in April 2022).

Sharing much with the Toyota bZ4X, the RZ in “450e” guise features “e-axles” fore and aft, each comprising a motor, gearing and power control unit. This arrangement results in peak system outputs of 230 kW (150 kW from the front motor and 80 kW from the rear item) and 435 Nm, allowing a 0-100 kph sprint in 5.3 seconds and a top speed of 160 kph, according to the Japanese automaker.

The all-wheel-drive Lexus RZ 450e ships with a 96-cell 71.4 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, facilitating a single-charge range of approximately 400 km on the WLTP cycle (or up to an “estimated” 470 km using NEDC testing figures, says Lexus).

The RZ measures 4 805 mm from nose to tail, with a 2 850 mm wheelbase and an overall height of 1 635 mm (the luggage compartment, meanwhile, can handle a claimed 522 litres). That sort of footprint puts the newcomer somewhere between the NX and RX crossovers.

So, what sets the SE trim level apart from the EX grade? Well, standard features for the EX include items such as an electric tailgate (with handsfree operation), LED headlamps (with auto high beams), roof rails, adaptive cruise control, a 14-inch infotainment screen, a 10-speaker audio system, 8-way electrically adjustable front seats, front seat heaters (and ventilation) and 18-inch alloys (wrapped in 235/60 R18 tyres fore and 255/55 R18 rubber aft).

Meanwhile, the SE specification adds features such as an adaptive high-beam function for the LED headlamps, LED foglamps, a “dimmable” panoramic sunroof, 20-inch alloys (shod in 235/50 R20 front tyres and 255/45 R20 rear tyres), rear-seat heating, a 13-speaker Mark Levinson sound system, a head-up display, intelligent park assist and “performance” dampers. Furthermore, while the EX comes with synthetic leather upholstery, the SE upgrades to “Ultrasuede”.

The Lexus RZ will be offered locally in a choice of 5 monotone paint colours (Sonic Quartz, Sonic Chrome, Graphite Black, Sonic Iridium and Atomic Blue) along with Sonic Chrome Bi-Tone and Atomic Blue Bi-Tone. A pair of interior trim options – Hazel and Greyscale – will be available in Mzansi.

How much does the Lexus RZ cost in South Africa?

Lexus RZ 450e EX – R1 583 100

Lexus RZ 450e SE – R1 756 600

The new RZ is covered by a 7-year/105 000 km warranty and a maintenance plan with the same parameters. The battery pack, meanwhile, features a separate 8-year/160 000 km warranty.

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2025 Kia Sportage: First Look

The facelifted 2025 Kia Sportage has been revealed and we’re expecting this medium-sized SUV to be touching down on South African shores before the end of 2025.

The 2025 Kia Sportage facelift has been gradually rolled out globally with the US-grade and Korean market derivatives already confirmed, the latter is the car you see here.

The current shape Sportage’s sharp and futuristic looks have served it well, it still retains that fresh feel – not bad for a car that’s three years old. Yes, you read that correctly, this generation of Kia Sportage was launched in South Africa in September 2022.

The Sportage has been well received, with numerous awards (included a coveted #CarsAwards category win) and comfortably nestles in towards the top spot in terms of sales in many markets. However, its time for the facelift and as you can see, the visual updates aren’t too radical.

2025 Kia Sportage design

There’s an upgraded front with restyled LED headlights, new-look bumpers and new LED tail-lamp designs. It appears that quite a few design elements have been taken from the flagship electric car, the Kia EV9. There are new wheel designs, ranging from 17- to 19-inch in size.

2025 Kia Sportage wheel

The cabin gets a makeover too, with some additional sound deadening in the door pillars and panels, as well as digitalisation and tech enhancements in the form of upgraded software for the digital instrument cluster and infotainment screens, and over-the-air updates have been introduced. A head-up display makes its debut on the top-of-the-range derivatives.

There’s a posh-looking steering wheel that looks similar to the one found in the Kia Sportage, augmented reality views integrated into the satnav, built-in dashcam and the mirrors now dip down when you engage reverse gear. Kia has also updated its safety tech, noting the lane-keep assist and autonomous emergency braking have been upgraded.

2025 Kia Sportage interior

In terms of powertrain, the Korean model has ditched the 7-speed dual-clutch transmission in favour of a new 8-speed torqe-converter automatic gearbox for the 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol motor, itself unchanged. We hope the 1.6-litre turbocharged diesel engine is retained as that powertrain is a class example for balancing of performance and economy.

When will the 2025 Kia Sportage come to South Africa?

Kia SA has confirmed the updated Sorento and Carnival range in the first half of 2025, with the Carens and Tasman indicated to arrive from the middle of 2025. There was no mention of the Sportage when we contacted the Korean brand for its 2025 plans at the end of 2024, so we suspect its local arrival will be right at the very end of the year.

Want to purchase a new or used Kia? Browse vehicles for sale

All the latest Kia news and reviews

Mitsubishi Outlander Sport (2025) Price & Specs

The new Mitsubishi Outlander Sport – known as the Xforce in some markets – has touched down in South Africa. Here’s what this fresh-faced crossover will cost you…

The new Mitsubishi Outlander Sport crossover has officially arrived in South Africa, with the local line-up comprising 4 derivatives at launch.

Seemingly replacing the long-in-the-tooth ASX (which has been on the local market since way back in 2011), the new Outlander Sport will be imported from Indonesia. Interestingly, in that country and several others around the world, this model wears instead the “Xforce” badge.

In South Africa, however, it’s known as the Outlander Sport, with pricing starting at R429 990 and running through to R499 990. For comparison, the outgoing ASX had bookends of R409 990 and R494 995.

All derivatives in the Outlander Sport portfolio are powered by a naturally aspirated 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine generating 77 kW and 141 Nm (and familiar from the SA-spec Xpander). A continuously variable transmission (CVT) ships standard (so, there’s no manual available), with drive directed exclusively to the front axle. Mitsubishi Motors SA claims a 0-100 kph time of 13.6 seconds and a maximum speed of 175 kph.

Measuring 4 390 mm from nose to tail (with a wheelbase of 2 650 mm), the 5-seater Outlander Sport is around the size of the Toyota Urban Cruiser. Mitsubishi claims a ground clearance of 222 mm, though points out this figure pertains to derivatives fitted with 18-inch alloy wheels.

The GL grade includes items such as LED headlamps, 17-inch alloys, electrically adjustable side mirrors, tilt-and-telescopic steering-column adjustment, remote keyless entry, fabric seat upholstery, 40:20:40-split folding (and reclining) rear seats, manual air conditioning, an 8.0-inch infotainment display, a reverse-view camera, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, 4 airbags and hill-start assist. Based on the specification sheet we’ve seen, the GLS trim level adds blind-spot warning (with lane-change assist) and rear cross traffic alert.

The Aspire grade, meanwhile, scores 18-inch rims, leather trim for the steering wheel, faux-leather seat upholstery, cruise control, a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, an 8-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless smartphone charging, a drive-mode selector (with normal, wet, gravel and mud settings), an electro-chromatic rearview mirror, side curtain airbags (for a total of 6), rear parking sensors, tyre-pressure monitoring and dual-zone air con.   

Aspire furthermore features ambient cabin lighting, automatic headlamps, front (LED) foglamps, rain-sensing wipers, a handsfree powered tailgate and colour coding for various elements of the front and rear bumpers. Finally, the flagship Exceed is seemingly set apart by its uprated 8-speaker premium sound system from Yamaha.

Mitsubishi Motors SA offers the new Outlander Sport in a choice of 5 exterior paint colours: White Pearl, Blade Silver, Graphite Grey, Red and Energetic Yellow.

What does the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport cost in SA?

Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 1.5 GL CVT – R429 990

Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 1.5 GLS CVT – R449 990

Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 1.5 Aspire CVT – R479 990

Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 1.5 Exceed CVT – R499 990

The prices above include a 5-year/unlimited kilometre warranty and a 3-year/45 000 km service plan (with intervals of 15 000 km).

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Here’s how many VW Polo GTI units were sold in SA in 2024

Just how popular is the Volkswagen Polo GTI in South Africa? Well, here’s a look at the Kariega-built hot hatch’s sales figures for 2024…

Is the Volkswagen Polo GTI the most popular hot hatch in South Africa? Well, the sales figures for 2024 certainly suggest so, indicating that this locally built model (which is one of the few remaining B-segment hot hatches on the market) outsold all other contenders last year.

Before we look specifically at the GTI, it’s worth pointing out that the full VW Polo hatch range dropped 2 rankings on the list of Mzansi’s best-selling cars and crossovers in 2024, ending up in 7th with 12 253 units sold (+4.3%, year on year).

Since Volkswagen Group Africa reports only a total Polo hatch sales figure to industry representative body Naamsa, we asked the German firm to provide us with an idea of the hot-hatch derivative’s share of that tally.

According to VW Group Africa, 1 412 units of the Polo GTI were registered locally in 2024. That translates to an 11.5% slice of the total Polo-hatch pie and sees this flagship derivative rank as South Africa’s best-selling hot hatch, ahead of the Golf 8 GTI (634 units) and Golf 8 R (431 units).

For context, were the Polo GTI to be regarded as a standalone model, it would have squeezed onto the list of South Africa’s top 50 best-selling passenger vehicles of 2024, outselling mainstream nameplates like the Hyundai Creta (1 256 units), Volkswagen T-Roc (1 244 units) and Mazda CX-5 (1 218 units).

As a reminder, the Polo GTI – which is currently priced at R573 300 – employs VW’s ubiquitous turbocharged 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine, which here delivers 147 kW and 320 Nm to the front axle via a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission as standard. The obligatory 0-100 kph sprint takes a claimed 6.7 seconds, while top speed is pegged at 238 kph.

Volkswagen’s Kariega facility in the Eastern Cape has been the exclusive manufacturer of the Polo GTI for global markets for some time now, with the plant furthermore having become the sole supplier of the Polo hatchback for European and Asian Pacific markets in July 2024. 

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Toyota Corolla Cross (2025) Launch Review

Mzansi’s favourite small crossover – and Toyota’s best-selling passenger car – has received a facelift. However, is it enough for the defending champion of the Cars.co.za Awards compact family-car category to fight off increasingly stiff competition?

Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) is immensely proud of the Corolla Cross, with good reason. The crossover has breathed new life into the iconic Corolla nameplate, has become a very strong seller (22 000 units of the pre-facelift model were sold last year) and, perhaps most importantly, is locally built.

The Corolla Cross’ success is not only important to TSAM, but also to automotive manufacturing in SA and ongoing efforts to secure this vital industry’s future. With a local content of around 45%, the Corolla Cross doesn’t only put food on the table for Toyota staff, but also workers at numerous parts suppliers.

But wait, there’s more. As the local motor industry attempts to evolve into a hub for manufacturing electrified-, also known as new-energy, vehicles (NEVs), the Corolla Cross Hybrid’s success in the local market is another reason to celebrate. It has helped Toyota secure 67% of South Africa’s NEV market!

That said, the segment is fiercely competitive, with Toyota noting in particular the influx of high-value Chinese offerings. There is simply no time to rest on one’s laurels. And so the 2023/24 CarsAwards programme’s Compact Family Car of the Year has gone under the proverbial knife for a midlife update.

What’s changed on the 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross?

It’s probably better to start with what’s remained the same. There are no mechanical updates – the model’s engine, transmission and suspension configuration are as before. The Toyota Corolla Cross’ derivative line-up has not been changed either – it comprises Xi, XS, XR and GR-Sport trim grades.

The focus of the facelift has been on delivering an enhanced in-car experience. Interestingly, one of the major lessons that Toyota admits it has learned from the Chinese brands (or, perhaps, shifts in consumer behaviour it has noted) is that car buyers increasingly put the “in-car experience” above almost anything else. For that reason, Toyota has genuinely sharpened its small crossover offering in several key areas.

From XS grade and up, there is a new, larger 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, the latter offering wireless connectivity. Toyota also implemented improved Bluetooth connectivity and a more attractive and intuitive user interface. XR and GR-Sport derivatives, meanwhile, feature a new, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, with crisp, clear graphics and personalised themes.

The updated screens are not just for show – the reverse-view camera now provides clearer views and there are customisable view modes to assist drivers when they execute difficult parking manoeuvres. XR and GR-S derivatives are further equipped with a 360-degree panoramic view monitor. 

Other detail changes include the adoption of an electric parking brake and the fitment of USB Type-C ports (including 2 for the rear passengers – a nice touch), as well as a rear-occupant detection system.

While we’re on the topic of the rear of the cabin, passengers in the back will undoubtedly also appreciate the new reclining backrests. Another first for the Corolla Cross is a hands-free tailgate release function (you can open the hatch by swiping your foot beneath the rear bumper) for XR and GR-S derivatives.

Subtle, but tasteful design revisions

The most noticeable change with the new Corolla Cross can be found at the front end. Here the car gets a new grille design (a type of painted honeycomb finish) that makes the Toyota look more modern.

The headlights, too, have been redesigned and have sequential turn signals (on XR and GR-S variants). Also unique to those 2 derivatives are Bi-Beam LED lamps and crystal-like LED daytime running lights. Not as obvious a change, but a neat tweak nonetheless: the rear lights also boast a refreshed design.

Was the update worthwhile? Yes, I think the new front-end treatment works. The previous car’s big black grille almost looked like Mr. Potato Head’s moustache. It is worth noting, however, that the GR-S does NOT get the new face. I also really like some of the colours, particularly Brass Gold and Oxide Bronze.

Inside, sharp-eyed visitors to Toyota’s new vehicle showroom will notice a few tweaks to the Corolla Cross beyond the new tech. There is now real stitching on the instrument panel and console lid, high-quality floor carpets with a heel pad and newly designed seat trims that feature dark brown accents.

As before, Black and Terra Rosa interior trim colours are offered, and I have a soft spot for the latter!

What’s the 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross like to drive?

As before, there are 2 drivetrain options to choose from: a 1.8-litre naturally aspirated- (103 kW/173 Nm) or 1.8-litre hybrid (92 kW/142 Nm) 4-cylinder petrol engine, both in conjunction with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).

Provided you can afford either, your choice between the 2 will depend on whether you want optimised efficiency or not. The hybrid, with a claimed average consumption of 4.3 L/100 km, is considerably more miserly than its non-hybrid equivalent (6.8 L/100 km). It is worth noting, however, that realistically both figures are likely to be higher than stated, but more so in the case of the naturally aspirated variants.

Behind the ‘wheel, and ignoring the in-car improvements, there is not much to report here. The Corolla Cross doesn’t offer punchy performance, but it does a fine job in a sound compact family car package.

The drone of the powertrain under full acceleration (without audible gear changes – because there aren’t any) is a consequence of the way a CVT operates and, yes, it can become a bit tiresome, but the CVT does facilitate good fuel economy (and operates more smoothly) if you adopt a restrained driving style.

On a particularly hot day in Gauteng, I was impressed with the Toyota Corolla Cross’ air-conditioning system (dual-zone from XS and up), non-intrusive active safety systems and general ride comfort.

I was less impressed with the seat comfort, however. I could never quite get comfortable, because there isn’t enough lateral support – and too much of a pronounced bulge in the centre of the backrest. 

Rear occupant space is very good and the reclining backrest, ventilation outlets and USB ports will be appreciated on long family trips. The load bay is nicely sized, with a claimed luggage capacity of 440L.

How much does the 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross cost in SA?

Corolla Cross 1.8 XiR414 800
Corolla Cross 1.8 XSR452 200
Corolla Cross 1.8 XS HybridR494 400
Corolla Cross 1.8 XRR501 500
Corolla Cross 1.8 GR-S (GR-Sport)R518 200
Corolla Cross 1.8 Hybrid XRR545 200
Corolla Cross 1.8 Hybrid GR SportR561 700

2025 Toyota Corolla Cross variants come standard with a 6-services/90 000 km service plan and a 3-year/100 000 km warranty. HEV models carry an 8-year warranty on the hybrid battery. Customers can purchase additional service/maintenance/warranty extensions via the Toyota dealer network.

New Toyota Corolla Cross Specs & Prices in South Africa

Summary

The 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross competes in a densely populated market segment, with not only a handful of high-value offerings from China (particularly the Haval Jolion, Toyota says), but also from established brands such as Volkswagen (T-Cross), Hyundai (Creta) and Kia (Seltos). 

With the high popularity of the Corolla Cross Hybrid, the Jolion Pro Hybrid has been identified as a key rival of Toyota’s compact family car. The Jolion Pro’s strengths include significantly more power, a few more “nice-to-have” features (including a sunroof and heated/ventilated seats) and a lower price. It is thirstier, however, its ride quality is not quite as resolved as the Toyota’s, plus its luggage area is smaller.

See also: Jacob Moshokoa’s video review of the updated Haval Jolion Pro

Following the latest update, the Corolla Cross’s specification is no longer lagging quite as badly and, in some instances, it has features that even the Jolion Pro doesn’t offer (hands-free tailgate operation, for example). It is more economical than the Haval, rides better, and has more luggage space.

And then, of course, you have to factor in that the Corolla Cross is a Toyota and what that means. If you consider that the Aichi-based brand has about 220 dealers and a reputation for good service, reliability and resale value, “plenty of peace of mind” comes part and parcel with the purchase, doesn’t it?

Find a new/used Toyota Corolla Cross listed for sale on Cars.co.za

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#CarsAwards Comparison Video: New Toyota Prado vs Ford Everest vs Land Rover Discovery

In this #CarsAwards video, judge David Taylor takes a closer look at the 3 finalists in the Adventure SUV category ahead of the winner announcement in February 2025. Watch the video!

The 2025 Cars.co.za Awards, sponsored by Absa, is in full swing! 39 finalists have been selected and thoroughly tested by our 20 judges. Represented in 13 categories across a wide spectrum of pricing and segments, the Cars.co.za Awards are by far the most comprehensive car awards in South Africa.

While the winners in each category will be announced at our Gala Awards Evening on the 28th of February 2025, we filmed 13 comparison tests across our categories with 4 motoring journalists.

In this film, David Taylor tackles the Adventure SUV Category, where the finalists include the new Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 2.8GD VX-R, Ford Everest 3.0TD Wildtrak and the Land Rover Defender 110 D350 X-Dynamic HSE.

While we wait for the winner to be announced, David Taylor conducts an in-depth test of all 3 cars back-to-back at the Gerotek Test Facility, and gives some perspective on which one he would take home. In this video he looks at engines, practicality and basic offroading. 

See all 2025 #CarsAwards – Sponsored by Absa – finalists here

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