Ora 03 (2023) Launch Review

South Africa has needed an affordable battery-electric vehicle to build some positive momentum in the EV segment. Enter the Ora 03 from parent brand GWM; we drove it at the local launch in Gauteng to see if it’s the breath of fresh air the segment needs.

What is the range of the GWM Ora?

Ora 03 EV front — *A former Porsche designer is now the lead designer for Ora… spot any similarities?*

You may be more familiar with the name the Ora 03 carries in some overseas markets: Funky Cat. But the South African market is rather conservative, so Haval Motors SA has named its all-electric hatchback 03.

There are 2 derivatives of the Ora 03: 300 and 400; the numbers represent their theoretical ranges (in km). The 300 and 400 produce the same power and torque (128 kW and 250 Nm), but the 300 Super Luxury utilises a smaller (48 kWh) battery compared with the 63 kWh battery of the 400 derivatives.

At R686 000, the Ora 03 300 Super Luxury is the most affordable electric car on sale in South Africa (November 2023) and, while its price tag doesn’t exactly scream “affordable”, our Government does impose an extra levy on the importation of electric cars – we (and many others) cannot fathom why.

The Ora 03 is cheap to run

Ora 03 EV charging — *Charging from home is cheaper than charging at public charging stations.*

The upfront cost may be more expensive than the equivalent petrol-fed premium hatchback, but the running costs of an Ora 03 are impressively low. It has far fewer oily mechanical parts, so there’s less that can potentially break down and the serviceable parts are few (no oil or filter changes are required).

Then there’s the day-to-day running cost, which is considerably lower than that of an equivalent petrol car. Travelling 300 km in an Ora 03 could cost you as little as R170 at an Eskom rate of R3.50/kWh. If a petrol car consumes 10 L/100 km, it will cost you around R650 to travel 300 km and, if it’s twice as frugal (5 L/100 km), it could cost R325 to travel the same distance (based on today’s price of 95 unleaded).

Those are admittedly very simple calculations, but the running cost benefit is undeniable. Prospective buyers will have to work out whether that benefit will ever overcome the extra capital they would have to spend to buy an EV. There will be a crossover point, but it may be multiple years of EV ownership away.

What’s the Ora 03 like to drive?

Ora 03 EV driving — *The EV feels like a quality hatchback with good ride quality over all but the harshest surfaces.*

We spent the day driving the Ora 03 400 GT Ultra Luxury, which is the priciest derivative in the range, but showcases everything that Ora currently offers in terms of design and tech. The 128 kW and 250 Nm facilitate just enough performance to make the Ora 03 fun to drive, without limiting its range unduly.

You can execute overtaking manoeuvres quickly thanks to the immediate access to maximum torque (all that is required is a firm prod of the accelerator) and the Ora cruises fairly easily at freeway speeds too.

However, if you do a lot of freeway driving (at about 100 kph), you will eat away at your range faster than expected. Short bursts on the freeway are fine, but the Ora works best when operating at under 100 kph and/or in built-up areas where you can effectively use regenerative braking to slow down or stop the car.

From a refinement perspective, the Ora 03 feels like a premium hatchback in the vein of a Toyota Corolla Hatch. Its general ride quality is on the firm side over bumpier/uneven roads, but for most buyers, it will feel comfortable and quiet inside. We could discern a little more wind noise than expected at above 100 kph, but that may be more because there is no ICE to drown out most of the external sources of noise.

There are 5 drive modes available, with the Eco+ mode limiting speed to 90 kph. But be mindful when engaging that mode… if you need to overtake traffic, you may run into a firm 90 kph limit and then start fumbling for the mode button, which is inconveniently located in front of your right knee next to 3 other buttons, including the one to turn off the car. Other modes include Normal Sport, Eco and Auto.

Ora 03 interior highlights

Ora 03 GT interior — *Only the GT model gets the dual-tone interior colours, the rest are plain black.*

The 03 GT Ultra Luxury has a dual-tone black and red interior, which looks more black and burgundy to my eyes (all other versions have black interiors). Still, the dual-tone trim is smart and well in keeping with the whole “futuristic EV vibe” that buyers may desire. The quality of the materials is very upmarket and the dual digital display looks very crisp and premium. I think less black space around the screens may have elevated the premium feel of the cabin a bit more – borderless screens always look cleaner.

Apple Carplay is standard and Android Auto is coming soon, but the cabin does include a powerful wireless charger and 2 USB-A ports at the front (a bit strange, considering USB-C is now the norm).

Ora 03 apple carplay — *Currently, only Apple Carplay is available, but Android Auto is coming soon.*

The touchscreen’s menus are relatively easy to work your way through, although a few functions – such as the massage seats – proved more difficult to find than expected (they are under the aircon menu).

How big is the Ora electric car?

Occupant space in the back of the Ora 03 is pretty good – probably at the expense of load-bay capacity, which, at 228 litres, is on the small side. That said, EV buyers are unlikely to use the Ora as a weekend getaway car – it’s for commuting, so a bay that can accommodate a laptop bag or 2 will probably suffice.

Look at the full specs of the Ora 03 here

High level of safety spec

Ora 03 EV drive — *Wireless charging is available as standard. The rotating dial allows you to shift into drive, park and reverse.*

There are many safety systems in the Ora 03 and most of them are available right from the entry-level 300 Super Luxury derivative. For instance, adaptive cruise control is standard, as are traffic-jam assist, lane-keeping assist, front and rear collision warning, 360-degree camera and rear cross-traffic assist.

As we’ve discovered with other Chinese brands’ new models, the push to wedge all that tech into cars can feel a bit rushed. In other words, the systems need a little bit more refinement for our roads (they can be oversensitive to lane markings, resulting in a ‘bong-fest of alerts’ when all the systems are active).

I turned most of them off (or set their sensitivity to extremely low) to smooth out the driving experience. The engineers are aware of these issues, however, and are keen to improve these systems for local use.

How much does the Ora 03 cost in South Africa?

Ora 03 300 Super Luxury	R686 950
Ora 03 400 Super Luxury	R775 950
Ora 03 400 Ultra Luxury	R805 950
Ora 03 GT Ultra Luxury	R835 950

The Ora 03 has an impressive 7-year/200 000 km warranty (high-voltage parts are covered for 8 years/150 000 km), as well as a 7-year/105 000 km service plan with 7 years of roadside assistance.

Summary

Ora 03 GT rear — *The GT is quite expensive at R800k, but the entry 03 300 is where the most value for money lies.*

The Ora 03 is not a cheap battery-electric vehicle, but with steep government-levied costs built into EVs’ price tags, we are unlikely to get a new all-electric model that costs between R350k and R450k anytime soon. But at R700k, the Ora 03 is the least expensive offering, and it appears to be a quality product.

The design is interesting, it’s well-appointed inside and the standard features list is long and compelling. Some of the active safety systems still need further refinement, but the ride and drive quality of the 03 is very good. The range is acceptable to most commuters and, with relatively small batteries, the Ora can be charged at home quickly, which makes it an electric car that could easily fit into modern lifestyles…

Kumbi Mtshakazi: What’s it like to be a #CarsAwards Judge?

Kumbi Mtshakazi is a local automotive content creator and he forms part of the 2023/24 #CarsAwards judging panel. He recently experienced the rigorous car testing procedure at Gerotek Test Facility and with the dust settled, we were keen to hear what Kumbi had to say about his experience of the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards thus far. Take a look!

The Cars.co.za Consumer Awards is now in its 7th iteration and with South Africa’s most comprehensive and authoritative motoring awards programme reaching its zenith, we saw no less than 20 judges descending on the Gerotek Testing Facility in Gauteng to put all 39 finalists through their paces.

More than this, all 39 finalists also went on public display at the Mall Of Africa in Midrand this weekend to give the public the opportunity to see the cars in the metal and to engage with the judges.

Earlier this year, a pool of 65 semi-finalist vehicles in 13 categories were chosen by Cars.co.za’s respected, highly knowledgable and experienced editorial team. The team put all the semi-finalists through a rigorous scoring process based on “Filters of Eligibility” and “Pillars of Success” to arrive at 39 finalists represented in 13 categories (3 vehicles per category).

The physical testing of all 39 finalists is a major component in the #CarsAwards programme with judges from all walks of life and varying professional backgrounds convening to cast their critical eyes and minds on the contenders.

The scores from all 20 judges represent 50% of the final result while the remaining 50% is determined by the Cars.co.za Ownership Satisfaction Survey that includes feedback from thousands of vehicle owners, based on their experiences of their vehicles and the service they receive (less than four years old and serviced through franchised outlets).

The winners in each category as well as the coveted Brand Of The Year Award will be announced in early 2024.

Click here for more information on the #CarsAwards

Kumbi Mtshakazi: What’s it like to be a #CarsAwards Judge?

We asked #CarsAwards judge, Kumbi Mtshakazi, a few questions to learn more about what he thought about the testing process for the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards. Here’s what he had to say!

1. Introduce yourself and briefly tell us what you do for a living.

My name is Kumbi Mtshakazi, a freelance automotive content creator and writer and I contribute to quite a few publications.

2. How many #CarsAwards have you judged and what does it mean to you to be chosen as a judge?

This was the first one, and what a special one it was.

3. What #CarsAwards categories did you judge?

I evaluated the Budget Hatchback, Entry-Level Crossover as well as the Leisure Double Cab categories which are extremely important in our market as we see most of these cars all over our roads.

4. You’ve just returned from extensive testing at Gerotek, how was it? Briefly tell us about your experience!

The experience was mind-blowing and insightful. While we receive these cars on test, we rarely put them through such conditions that Gerotek provided. Things like the skidpan, dynamic handling as well as the brake tests are not things we usually do when we have the cars on test, unless you’re forced to perform an emergency braking test because a taxi driver decided to jump in front of you 🙂

5. The #CarsAwards is regarded as the most respected motoring awards programme in South Africa. In your opinion, what makes the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards unique?

The fact that the actual buyers, the consumers, get involved in the voting process makes it quite unique. It shows just how important the consumers are, since they are the reason we are in the industry.

6. What test obstacles at Gerotek did you find to be the most illuminating in terms of testing the finalists and why?

Personally, it has to be the dynamic handling track as well as the skid pan. With the recent unseasonal rains, it showed me just how some of these vehicles handle in the wet and boy did some of these vehicles shock me!

7. Out of all the cars you tested, what car stood out the most for you and why?

The Suzuki Baleno stood out for me, a true testament to what a budget car should be. It’s affordable, handles well and drives excellently and offers low fuel consumption. It shows you just how much Suzuki has grown and why they’re doing so well in our country. It’s a well-rounded product!

8. What cars do you think will win in each category (share your predictions with us) and importantly what car brand do you think will win the Brand Of The Year Award and why?

Entry-Level Hatchback – Suzuki Swift
Budget Hatchback – Suzuki Baleno
Compact Hatchback – Volkswagen Polo
Entry-Level Crossover – Suzuki Grand Vitara
Compact Family Car – Toyota Corolla Cross
Family Car – KIA Sportage
Premium Crossover – BMW X1
Executive SUV – BMW X3 20d
Premium SUV – Land Rover Defender 110
Adventure SUV – Ford Everest
Leisure Double Cab Bakkie – Ford Ranger Wildtrak
Performance Car – Honda Civic Type R
Electric Vehicle – Volvo XC40 Twin
Brand of the Year – Suzuki

9. If you attended the Cars.co.za #CarsAwards Roadshow at Mall Of Africa, tell us what you enjoyed most about the experience!

The mall activation was exhilarating. With people seeing all the cars in the same segment, they could actually compare the various cars and that gave them a lot of insights. Being the MC and hyping the crowd on Sunday so they could come and win prizes was also interesting.

10. Give us 3 words that capture the essence of the 2023/24 #CarsAwards.

Informative. Fun. Fair.

Why the new GWM Tank 300 has been delayed for SA

The GWM Tank was scheduled to launch in South Africa towards the middle of 2023, but now won’t arrive until next year. Here’s why the ladder-frame SUV has been delayed…

Back in May 2023, Haval Motors South Africa announced indicative pricing for the new GWM Tank 300, which was expected to launch shortly thereafter. However, the Chinese company’s local division has now confirmed to Cars.co.za that the ladder-frame SUV will hit the market only early in 2024.

So, what’s behind this delay? Well, the firm told us the units came in drips and drabs and rather than launching without a sufficient number of vehicles available to sell, the brand waited until there were enough models in the country. This also allowed Tank to assess the feasibility of a hybrid version of the Tank which will make its debut when the brand launches fully in early 2024.

According to Haval Motors SA, the Tank 300 will thus launch locally with the option of either powertrain, before the larger Tank 500 follows later in 2024. Of course, we’ve already had a quick drive of the former during an international jaunt Down Under earlier in the year.

Built on a ladder-frame chassis similar to that of the GWM P-Series bakkie, the Tank 300 boasts a ground clearance of 224 mm, an approach angle of 33 degrees and a departure angle of 34 degrees. It measures 4 760 mm long, 1 930 mm wide and has a wheelbase of 2 750 mm, which makes it similar in size to a Toyota Fortuner (though note the 300-badged model is a strict 5-seater rather than a 3-row SUV, like the Prospecton-built stalwart).

The standard turbocharged 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine makes 162 kW and 387 Nm, peak outputs that are delivered to all 4 corners via an 8-speed automatic transmission as standard. Meanwhile, the hybrid version is based on a similarly sized 4-pot but churns out total system outputs of 258 kW and 615 Nm. From what we understand, there will be no turbodiesel option in the Tank 300 line-up.

While Haval Motors SA suggested back in May 2023 that the GWM Tank 300 range would be priced “between R685 900 and R851 900”, we suspect these bookends may have shifted somewhat considering the delay. Still, we’ll bring you more details of the local range – including pricing – as soon as they become available. Stay tuned…

Lexus LX (2023) Review

The Lexus LX has been billed as the “Ultimate Luxury SUV” but will buyers be able to look past the fact that the Japanese premium brand’s 1st-class off-roader is “a posh Toyota Land Cruiser 300”? We put an LX 600 F Sport through its paces to find out…

We like: Prestige, build quality, all-encompassing specification, potent engine and off-road capabilities.

We don’t like: Top-heavy handling, thirsty when pressing on, unresolved ride quality, where’s the hybrid?

FAST FACTS

Model: Lexus LX 600 F Sport
Price: R2 553 600 (November 2023)
Engine: 3.5-litre turbocharged V6 petrol
Power/Torque: 305 kW and 650 Nm
Transmission: 10-speed automatic
0-100 kph: 6.58 seconds (tested)
Fuel consumption: 11.3 L/100 km (claimed)
Luggage/Utility space: 1 109 litres

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Where does the Lexus LX fit in?

*F-Sport treatment makes a visual statement*

This author fondly recalls driving a V8-powered 3rd-gen Lexus LX 570 in 2010 and being blown away by the behemoth SUV’s opulent and spacious cabin, plus… its frightening thirst for unleaded. Now, 13 years later, Lexus has a new LX flagship, which the Japanese marque claims is the “Ultimate Luxury SUV.”

If you’re a high net-worth individual (HNWI) with R2.5 million to spend on an all-encompassing luxury vehicle, you’re spoilt for choice. The most direct rival to the Lexus (in terms of go-anywhere ability) is its Toyota Land Cruiser 300 cousin, upon which the LX is based. We’d also suggest taking a closer look at the Range Rover Sport (because prices of the full-fat Range Rover start at R3.2 million) and the German duo of the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS, which, like the Sport, are road-biased 1st-class SUVs.

Compare the Lexus LX to the Range Rover Sport and Toyota Land Cruiser 300

Compare the Lexus LX to the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS

How the Lexus LX fares in terms of…

Design and Packaging

*If you want a 1st-class SUV that can ‘go anywhere’, the Lexus LX is your answer.*

There are 5 derivatives in the Lexus LX lineup and they are priced from R2.5 million to R2.9 million. We’re behind the ‘wheel of the LX 600 F Sport, which is the most affordable turbopetrol version (by a whisker).

Even when finished in less-than-glamorous White Nova, the test unit turned heads aplenty courtesy of its black spindle grille, brushed aluminium trim, sportier wheels and F-Sport badging. Inside, the vehicle has sports seats, aluminium pedals and scuff plates, plus a perforated leather-trimmed steering wheel.

The LX’s cabin is awash with premium materials and finishes that feel solidly assembled and eminently luxurious – which is no mean feat. The interior feels decidedly upmarket; it befits a R2.5-million vehicle!

*Rear passengers have dual-zone climate control, plus heated and cooled seats!*

The LX is available in 4-, 5-, 6- and 7-seat configurations. Our unit was a 5-seater, but, considering the Lexus’ extended exterior dimensions, its rear legroom isn’t generous. When we glanced at our data, we noticed the LX’s wheelbase is similar in length to that of the new RX premium SUV. Still, there’s plenty of headroom for aft occupants, plus heated/cooled seats, individual ventilation controls and power outlets.

The load-bay capacity is impressive too: more than 1 100 litres of luggage space is complemented by a 110V power outlet. If you require more space/comfort for the rear passengers, the LX 600 VIP features a pair of reclining Ottoman seats in the 2nd row with massage functionality and entertainment screens.

Performance and Efficiency

*Engage Sport+ for maximum straight-line performance*.

For the 4th-gen Lexus LX range, that mighty 5.7-litre naturally-aspirated petrol V8 has been superseded by a pair of forced-induction V6 engines paired with 10-speed automatic transmissions. Buyers can choose between a 3.5-litre twin-turbo petrol (with 305 kW/650 Nm) and a 3.3-litre twin-turbo diesel

Lexus South Africa doesn’t state performance figures for its LX derivatives, so we drove to our test road to find out exactly how fast the 2.6-tonne SUV is. According to our equipment, the turbopetrol-powered LX 600 F Sport accelerated from 0 to 100 kph in 6.58 seconds (with its sportiest drive mode engaged), which was impressive… considering the LX appears to have the aerodynamic properties of a barge.

The V6 powerplant is muscular – there is no shortage of urge, when required – and has a creamy power delivery. Compared with the ancient V8 it replaced, the V6 is ultra-refined; it runs so quietly, in fact, that when you engage Sport+ mode, the LX plays an enhanced engine note through the car’s audio system.

We don’t have many criticisms of the drivetrain, but the Lexus’ transmission was prone to “hunting”. An auto ‘box with a multitude of ratios is supposed to keep an engine performing optimally and as efficiently as possible (all in the name of achieving low carbon emissions), but either 10 ratios are a few too many… or the LX’s powertrain software needs to be recalibrated to dissuade the transmission from constantly hunting for an appropriate gear. To remedy the problem, you can use the steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles to actuate manual gear changes, but that doesn’t gel with the “Ultimate Luxury SUV” theme…

*14.9 L/100 km is not the most efficient. If you want better fuel economy, opt for the turbodiesel.*

What’s more, despite our best efforts to make its indicated consumption figure dip to expected levels, the LX 600 F Sport wasn’t very fuel efficient during its tenure in our test fleet. Even though buyers in the Lexus LX’s target market are unlikely to struggle to afford to keep a vehicle of this calibre fueled up, we were disappointed that we couldn’t get the trip computer to display under 14.9 L/100 km. We tried open-road cruising at 100 kph in Eco mode and still couldn’t achieve anything near the claimed 11.3 L/100 km.

Still, the LX is more efficient than its predecessor and comes equipped with 2 fuel tanks: an 80-litre primary and a 30-litre backup, giving the 600 F Sport a (trifle optimistic) claimed range of 974 km. One would think that a brand with as much experience with petrol-electric powertrains as Lexus would offer some sort of electrification on its flagship family car, but sadly there’s no hybrid version in the LX lineup.

Ride and Handling

Lexus LX 600 wheel — *Those massive (22-inch) alloy wheels look the part, but aren’t ideal for off-roading.*

The 4th-gen RX rides on Toyota’s TNGA-F platform (with a ladder-frame chassis) and is said to be 20% more rigid and 200 kg lighter than the outgoing model. While vehicles with ladder-frame architectures (such as bakkies and off-roaders) cannot match cars with a monocoque design in terms of body control and ride refinement, they have the upper hand when it comes to off-road capability and toughness.

Also, the F-Sport trim is not just for show; Lexus has equipped this derivative with a Torsen limited-slip differential, adaptive variable suspension, performance dampers and a special tune for the power steering. In truth, we don’t think all of those handling add-ons are necessary – there’s no getting away from the fact the Lexus LX is a tall, heavy luxury SUV, and it feels like one from behind the ‘wheel.

Lexus LX 600 steering wheel — *The smart-looking F-Sport multifunction steering wheel*.

On the other side of the coin, very few vehicles can instil the sensation of towering over other road users in the way the 4th-gen LX does. From behind its leather-trimmed multifunction tiller, you feel superior to (virtually) everyone else on the road. The cabin’s impressively quiet too, for reasons we’ll discuss below.

The 600 F Sport’s air suspension does its best to offer a comfortable ride quality on average to poorly maintained road surfaces and, although the damping is reasonably absorbent, a vehicle with a ladder-frame chassis (even a luxurious one) can never ride as plushly as its road-biased unibodied rivals.

Lexus LX 600 cameras — *An excellent parking camera system for one of the largest vehicles we’ve driven*.

The steering setup (with its F-Sport tune) is acceptable in the majority of driving scenarios, but there is little in the way of feel and feedback through the ‘wheel. On the open road, the tiller requires pronounced inputs to elicit steering responses; as a result, the LX feels languid to drive… as if it floats over the road.

Some will appreciate that the Lexus facilitates a relaxed driving style, but others may find the steering feel too remote and insubstantial. Still, The LX is relatively easy to park; its steering seems more sensitive at crawling speeds, which is when its myriad proximity sensors and cameras are activated automatically.

Comfort and Features

Lexus LX 600 seats — *Automatically heated/cooled seats and steering wheel are two gadgets you never knew you needed!*

When you’re forking out R2.5 million for a 1st-class SUV, it wouldn’t be unreasonable to expect the car to be fitted with every conceivable gadget, gizmo, toy and comfort feature – and the LX has them all! Four of the seats are automatically adjustable and heated, as well as ventilated… Even the rim of the steering wheel has an auto-heating function that works in conjunction with the vehicle’s climate control settings.

*We put this cool box to the test and our soft drinks were chilled rapidly*.

Furthermore, the LX 600 F Sport has a frosty drinks fridge (built into the centre armrest), more charging ports than you may ever require, a wireless charging pad, as well as a 25-speaker Mark Levinson audio system, which we rate highly. The head-up display is also one of the better of its kind we’ve experienced.

There’s some clever tech in the vehicle too, such as the active noise control that cleverly dials out engine and road noise by replacing it with white noise through the speakers. That’s why the cabin’s so hushed!

Lexus LX 600 infotainment — *The dashboard layout looks cluttered, but we appreciate the physical buttons*.

The LX features a combined digital/analogue instrument cluster – would a fully electronic one not have looked more upmarket? – flanked by a sizeable infotainment touchscreen (Apple CarPlay/Android Auto hands-free connectivity is standard, plus you can use your favourite apps like Spotify, Waze and more).

Below the central unit is a smaller screen that performs a dual function: it displays the SUV’s off-road info and parameters (you can adjust the ride height, for example), as well as the climate control settings.

Off-road Capability

*You can raise the LX’s ride height and activate its differential lock on the centre console.*

The 4th-gen Lexus LX’s 4×4 credentials are impressive – but, seeing as it’s the cousin of the Land Cruiser 300, that’s to be expected! The 1st-class SUV has permanent 4-wheel-drive and retains the Toyota’s 700 mm wading depth, hill-descent control, low-range transfer case, differential locks and off-road modes. Interestingly, it has a ground clearance of 210 mm, compared with the Toyota’s 235 mm.

However, given the high likelihood of graunching the 600 F Sport’s beautiful 22-inch alloys on a tricky off-road course, we avoided driving the Lexus on anything rougher than gravel farm roads, which it crushed with consummate ease. It’s reassuring to know that the new LX has all the tech and features to be capable off-road, but the risk of damaging such a premium product was simply not worth it.

If you plan to drive off the beaten track more often than not (as unlikely as that may be), a Land Cruiser 300 fitted with higher-profile 20-inch tyres (265/55) or 18-inch rubber (265/65) would be a better bet.

Lexus LX Price and After-Sales Support

Lexus LX 600 F Sport

R2 553 600

Every Lexus LX derivative is sold with a standard 7-year/100 000 km warranty and -maintenance plan.

Verdict

Lexus LX 600 gravel — *It’s the Toyota Land Cruiser which attended private school*

LX models have such long lifecycles that the leap from the 3rd- to the current-gen SUV seems massive; in reality, it’s more a case of evolution than revolution (it’s still a ladder-frame-based vehicle), but thanks to technological advancements (inside and mechanically) and well documented structural gains, the 4th-gen model incorporates enhancements in virtually every facet that you can touch, feel and experience.

The switch from a naturally aspirated V8 to a twin-turbo V6 has not made the LX that much more fuel-efficient, but considering what kind of vehicle it is and its clientele, that’s not a cardinal sin. The cabin is luxurious, modern and hushed – it creates the impression of being made to last, which is still important.

Should you buy one? That’s a difficult question to answer. Look, if you desire a large family SUV with considerable off-road capability, you may as well purchase the Toyota-badged version of this model (stock availability permitting, of course) and have change left to keep its gargantuan fuel tank filled up.

However, if you opt for the Lexus, you’ll bask in the knowledge that your effortlessly luxurious juggernaut offers the same capability and performance as the Toyota, but with much more exclusivity and, therefore, prestige. We think the turbodiesel-powered non-F-Sport derivative is probably the pick of the range.

Will most buyers be willing to live with the drawbacks of the LX’s ladder-frame underpinnings (such as compromised ride quality, an uninvolving driving experience and less-than-ideal interior packaging), considering that its continental rivals, with their monocoque bodies, offer better on-road refinement? Probably, but those who are disinclined to ever drive on gravel roads, let alone go 4x4ing, might not…

Ah, but there is another way of benefitting from a 7-year/105 000 km warranty and maintenance plan (backed by the Japanese premium marque’s excellent after-sales service) from behind the ‘wheel of a luxurious Lexus SUV. Although it’s not nearly as bold or glamorous as the LX, we rate the RX as one of the SA new-vehicle market’s biggest surprises of 2023 (we’ve linked to our video review of it below).

Tshidi Malebana: What’s it like to be a #CarsAwards Judge?

Meet Tshidi Malebana, one of 20 judges for the 2023/24 iteration of the #CarsAwards! After a long day of judging 3 categories at the Gerotek Test Facility in Gauteng, we were keen to hear about Tshidi’s experience! Take a look!

The winners in each category as well as the coveted Brand Of The Year Award will be announced in early 2024.

Click here for more information on the #CarsAwards

Tshidi Malebana: What’s it like to be a #CarsAwards Judge?

We asked #CarsAwards judge, Tshidi Malebana, a few questions to learn more about what she thought about the testing process for the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards. Here’s what she had to say!

1. Introduce yourself and briefly tell us what you do for a living.

Hey Fam! My name is Matshedisho Malebana, also known as Tshidi. I work as an Accounting Clerk at an accounting firm and I am also a part-time independent motoring journalist. I love cars and I love to laugh!

2. How many #CarsAwards have you judged and what does it mean to you to be chosen as a judge?

The #CarsAwards was my first opportunity to judge and being selected as a judge was one of the highlights of 2023. I am honoured to have worked alongside Hannes, Ciro, Ashley, etc. They are true legends of the South African motoring industry.

3. What #CarsAwards categories did you judge?

Entry-Level Hatch, Entry-Level Crossover and Family Car

4. You’ve just returned from extensive testing at Gerotek, how was it? Briefly tell us about your experience!

It was a different experience. Gerotek offers a unique array of facilities for testing a vehicle’s entire performance in a controlled environment in a short time. Putting similar cars back-to-back on the same terrain reveals significant differences! It was tiring but I’m not complaining.

5. The #CarsAwards is regarded as the most respected motoring awards programme in South Africa. In your opinion, what makes the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards unique?

Consumers are involved and there is a wide selection of judges!

6. What test obstacles at Gerotek did you find to be the most illuminating in terms of testing the finalists and why?

The wet obstacle proved how well the car would do on wet roads, hill climbs exposed some vehicles’ power deficiencies and the suspension track revealed a car’s weaknesses very clearly.

7. Out of all the cars you tested, what car stood out the most for you and why?

Suzuki Swift. The car has style, it’s a best-seller and it’s a pure joy to drive. It’s a fun car that offers great value for money!

8. What cars do you think will win in each category (share your predictions with us) and importantly what car brand do you think will win the Brand Of The Year Award and why?

Entry-Level Hatchback – Suzuki Swift
Budget Hatchback – Renault Clio
Compact Hatchback – VW Polo
Entry-Level Crossover – Chery Tiggo 4 Pro
Compact Family Car -Haval Jolion S Super Luxury
Family Car – Kia Sportage
Premium Crossover – BMW X1
Executive SUV – Mercedes-Benz GLC 220d
Premium SUV – Land Rover Defender
Adventure SUV – Ford Everest Wildtrak
Leisure Double Cab Bakkie – Ford Ranger Raptor
Performance Car – Honda Civic Type R
Electric Vehicle – Volvo XC40 Twin Motor

Brand of the Year – BMW: They have five finalists in the different categories.

9. If you attended the Cars.co.za #CarsAwards Roadshow at Mall Of Africa, tell us what you enjoyed most about the experience!

Being able to interact with the public and hear some of their questions about all the finalists was interesting and fun.

10. Give us 3 words that capture the essence of the 2023/24 #CarsAwards.

Efficient. Big. Indisputable.

Ora 03: Price & Specs

GWM’s new Ora 03 is SA’s cheapest battery-electric vehicle, with a starting price of under R700 000, which significantly undercuts its main rival – the Mini Cooper SE.

In May 2023, Haval Motors South Africa announced pricing bookends for the upcoming GWM ORA range, effectively positioning its battery-powered, front-driven compact city car as the country’s cheapest (full-size) fully electric vehicle.

For the record, GWM’s Ora 03 – which is known as the Good Cat or Funky Cat in some markets – is set to start at R686 950 (undercutting the R783 500 Mini Cooper SE Hatch 3-door), while the range-topping version will be priced at R835 950. The local line-up will comprise 4 derivatives, but our freshly unearthed information suggests the range will start with a lower-output powertrain than earlier reported.

The Ora 03 line-up kicks off with the 300 Super Lux, which features peak outputs of 105 kW and 210 Nm and employs a 48-kWh battery pack and – based on the naming convention – features a claimed single-charge range of around 300 km.

See the GWM’s full Ora range here!

*A more aggressively styled GT model tops the range.*

Next up is the Ora 03 400 Super Luxury, which will feature the same 105 kW/210 Nm maximum outputs as the base version, though with a larger 63 kWh battery pack (resulting in a claimed range of around 400 km).

For those wanting additional power, the Ora 400 Ultra Luxury is armed with a 126 kW and 250 Nm powertrain, backed up by a 63 kWh battery pack.

Finally, the 400 GT Ultra Luxury slots in at the very summit of the line-up, using a 126 kW/250 Nm electric motor linked to the same 63 kWh battery pack as the Ultra Luxury.

A similar circa-400 km claimed range is expected from the GT, while recharging the battery from 10% to 80% using an 80 kW DC fast-charger will take 41 minutes, according to Haval Motors SA. In addition to its added oomph, the GT boasts more aggressive exterior styling and an extra smattering of kit.

We are currently at the local launch so look out for more information very soon! In the meantime, make sure to read our international launch review of this compact electric car, which we first drove in Australia…

Also, note that the Ora 300 Super Luxury is a finalist in the Electric Vehicle category of the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards!

How much will the GWM Ora cost in South Africa?

Ora 03 300 Super Luxury – R686 950

Ora 03 400 Super Luxury – R775 950

Ora 03 400 Ultra Luxury – R805 950

Ora 03 GT Ultra luxury – R835 950

Browse electric cars for sale on Cars.co.za!

SA’s best-selling imported vehicles in October 2023

Locally built models dominate the list of South Africa’s best-selling cars and bakkies, but what about imported vehicles? Here are the most popular imported cars of October 2023…

In October 2023, as many as 8 of South Africa’s 10 best-selling vehicles were locally built. But what about imported models? Well, we sorted through the figures to pick out the most popular models shipped in from overseas last month.

As a reminder, nearly 65% of light vehicles sold in South Africa in 2022 were imported rather than produced in Mzansi. According to Naamsa, the top country of origin in pure volume terms last year was India, from which a whopping 165 910 vehicles were sourced. That translates to 51.2% of total light vehicles – yes, more than half – imported in 2022.

*Toyota’s Starlet was SA’s top-selling imported car last month.*

So, it comes as no surprise that most models in the top 10 best-selling imported vehicles for October 2023 were sourced from the subcontinental nation, which has transformed itself into a global production hub for budget vehicles.

Last month, the Toyota Starlet (1 363 units) – which is manufactured by Maruti Suzuki in India – was SA’s top-selling imported car, just ahead of the Suzuki Swift (1 248 units) produced in the same country. The Chinese-made Chery Tiggo 4 Pro completed the podium with 856 registrations.

*The only Chinese-made model in the top 10 was the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro.*

The Celerio-based Toyota Vitz (779 units) grabbed 4th position with its highest tally since launching locally, sneaking in ahead of the likewise Indian-built Nissan Magnite (715 units). The Hyundai Grand i10 range – which now comprises both hatchback and sedan derivatives built in India – took 6th place, finishing the month on 705 units (680 in the passenger-car segment and 25 in the light-commercial vehicle space).

Another Indian-made model in the form of the Renault Kwid (661 units) claimed 7th spot, just ahead of the Spanish-built Volkswagen T-Cross (641 units) – the only model in the top 10 sourced from Europe – in 8th. The Hyundai i20 (635 units) and Volkswagen Polo Sedan (628 units) completed the table, with both models shipped over from India.

SA’s best-selling imported vehicles in October 2023

1. Toyota Starlet – 1 363 units

2. Suzuki Swift – 1 248 units

3. Chery Tiggo 4 Pro – 856 units

4. Toyota Vitz – 779 units

5. Nissan Magnite – 715 units

6. Hyundai Grand i10 – 705 units

7. Renault Kwid – 661 units

8. Volkswagen T-Cross – 641 units

9. Hyundai i20 – 635 units

10. Volkswagen Polo Sedan – 628 units

Suzuki Jimny 5-Door (2023) Price & Specs

After a long wait, the more practical Suzuki Jimny 5-Door has finally arrived in South Africa. Here’s how much you can expect to pay...

The arrival of the Suzuki Jimny 5-Door in South Africa addresses its one glaring flaw: practicality or lack thereof. The 4th-generation Suzuki has proven popular locally, with over 11 000 units finding homes in our market since its introduction in 2018.

What’s Changed?

The Suzuki Jimny 5-Door’s primary difference over its 3-door sibling is the 340 mm extension in its wheelbase. This means more cabin space as well as boot space, which is now rated at 211 litres (an increase of 126 litres over the 3-door). Fold the rear seats down and you gain over 1 100 litres of cargo-carrying capacity.

Read more about the new Suzuki Jimny 5-Door

Crucially, the legendary off-road capabilities are not radically affected. The critical numbers of approach, departure, ramp/breakover and ground clearance are rated at 36 degrees, 47 degrees, 24 degrees and 210 mm, respectively, and are not too far off the shorter 3-door model. It retains a part-time 4-wheel drive system with a low-range transfer case, as well as hill-descent control.

The engine and transmission has been carried over and as a reminder, it’s the K15B 1.5-litre naturally aspirated motor with 75 kW and 130 Nm on offer. Customers have the choice of either a manual gearbox or an automatic transmission. As far as fuel economy goes, the Jimny 5-Door is said to consume just 6.4 L/100 km, while the auto is a touch thirstier at 6.7 L/100 km.

Trim Levels

Jimny 5-Door GL

15-inch alloy wheels
7-inch touchscreen infotainment
Apple Carplay / Android Auto
Reverse camera with rear park distance control
Grey grille with chrome accent
Electrically-adjustable door mirrors
Steering-wheel audio controls
Front and rear electric windows
Front and rear cabin lights
2x 12V power sockets
Dual front airbags
ISOFIX child seat mounts
Anti-lock brakes
Stability Control
AllGrip Pro 4WD system

Jimny 5-Door GLX (the above content plus)

Automatic LED projector headlamps with washers
9-inch touchscreen infotainment
Cruise control
Automatic climate control
6 airbags
Front fog lights
Electrically fold in mirrors
Leather covered steering wheel

How much does the Suzuki Jimny 5-door cost in South Africa?

The new 5-door derivative is sold with a 5-year/200 000 km warranty and 4-year/60 000 km service plan.

Jimny 5-door 1.5 GL Manual – R429 900

Jimny 5-door 1.5 GLX Manual – R457 900

Jimny 5-door 1.5 GLX Auto – R479 900

MrHowMuch: What’s it like to be a #CarsAwards Judge?

Popular South African motoring Youtuber, MrHowMuch, is a #CarsAwards judge and we’re keen to pick his brain about his testing experience at Gerotek as well as his thoughts on the finalists. Here’s what MrHowMuch has to say about South Africa’s ultimate motoring awards programme!

The winners in each category as well as the coveted Brand Of The Year Award will be announced in early 2024.

Click here for more information on the #CarsAwards

MrHowMuch: What’s it like to be a #CarsAwards Judge?

We asked #CarsAwards judge, MrHowMuch, a few questions to learn more about what he thought about the testing process for the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards. Here’s what he had to say!

1. Introduce yourself and briefly tell us what you do for a living.

Hello there, My name is Bongani but I’m more commonly known as MrHowMuch. By profession, I’m a full-time Aircraft Engineer who just happens to run an automotive YouTube Channel called MrHowMuch.

2. How many #CarsAwards have you judged and what does it mean to you to be chosen as a judge?

This was my first time being a part of the #CarsAwards judging panel and as someone who is new to the industry, this for me is the highest honour anyone in motoring could wish for.

3. What #CarsAwards categories did you judge?

Leisure Double Cab , Budget Hatchback and the Premium Crossover.

4. You’ve just returned from extensive testing at Gerotek, how was it? Briefly tell us about your experience!

Being a first-time judge, I have to say that I was very impressed. The whole testing process was done to world-class standards, from the facilities to the cars and even the judging criteria itself, no shortcuts were taken.

5. The #CarsAwards is regarded as the most respected motoring awards programme in South Africa. In your opinion, what makes the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards unique?

The relatability of these awards to the average South African consumer is what makes it special, even the criteria used for testing is what a buyer would want to know when buying their next car.

Everything there is to test, we tested, from the exterior design, interior build quality, comfort on different road conditions and more importantly the safety features in each of these cars.

What test obstacles at Gerotek did you find to be the most illuminating in terms of testing the finalists and why?

There was a section with sprinklers where we got to test the handling and grip of each of the vehicles under wet conditions, that particular test is important to a lot of South Africans given how our roads easily flood during the rainy season.

7. Out of all the cars you tested, what car stood out the most for you and why?

The Ford Ranger Raptor, it’s everything in one.

You get the practicality of a double-cab bakkie, the 292 KW of a performance car and the off-roading ability of a 4×4.

8. What cars do you think will win in each category (share your predictions with us) and importantly what car brand do you think will win the Brand Of The Year Award and why?

Entry-Level Hatchback – Suzuki Swift
Budget Hatchback – Renault Clio
Compact Hatchback – VW Polo Life
Entry-Level Crossover – Haval Jolion
Compact Family Car -Haval Jolion S
Family Car -Chery Tiggo 8 Pro Max
Premium Crossover – BMW X1
Executive SUV – BMW X3
Premium SUV – Land Rover Defender
Adventure SUV – Ford Everest Wildtrak
Leisure Double Cab Bakkie – Ford Ranger Raptor
Performance Car – Toyota GR Yaris
Electric Vehicle – BMW iX1

Brand of the Year – I would have to say BMW. From the sedans, M Performance cars and even their wide variety of SUVs, BMW has been doing very well across the board. It’s clear South Africans love them as a brand, there’s always BMWs on delivery trucks, BMWs on highways and even in parking lots so I think they might stand a chance of taking it this year.

9. If you attended the Cars.co.za #CarsAwards Roadshow at Mall Of Africa, tell us what you enjoyed most about the experience!

For the most part, consumers only see us on their televisions and cellphone screens. They communicate with us through comments across various platforms but this was different. We got to meet face-to-face , answer questions in real-time, take pictures and bring smiles to the people who support us. Being there was a very rewarding part of the whole programme.

10. Give us 3 words that capture the essence of the 2023/24 #CarsAwards.

World Class Testing

New Volvo EM90 luxury MPV revealed as V-Class rival

Meet the new Volvo EM90, a fully electric luxury MPV boasting 200 kW and a claimed range of 738 km. Should the likes of the Mercedes-Benz V-Class be worried?

Back in August 2023, we shared a teaser video confirming the new Volvo EM90. Now the Swedish brand has whipped the wraps off its fresh-faced fully electric luxury MPV, which looks set to take on the likes of the Mercedes-Benz V-Class – or, more specifically, the fully electric EQV derivative.

Arriving as the automaker’s first multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) in 96 years of operation, the EM90 is reportedly based on the Zeekr 009, a model offered in China by another of Volvo parent company Geely’s brands. The EM90, of course, made its debut in China, where pre-orders have already opened.

Powered by a 200 kW electric motor sited on the rear axle (a peak torque figure has not yet been released), the new EM90 has a claimed 0-100 kph time of 8.3 seconds. According to the Gothenburg-based firm, the 116 kWh battery pack affords the premium MPV a range of up to 738 km, according to the China Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle (CLTC). Meanwhile, charging time from 10 to 80% is “expected to be under 30 minutes”.

Furthermore, Volvo says the new MPV is “equipped with all the hardware necessary” to enable bi-directional charging, effectively meaning the EM90’s battery pack will be able to charge other electric vehicles and appliances.

Billed as a “premium 6-seater that provides everyone with their own zone and personal space”, the new Volvo EM90’s 2nd row features lounge seats that each offer a massage function, individual heating and ventilation options, “zero-gravity” cushions (with a 7-layer structure) as well as built-in tables and cupholders.

A panoramic sunroof provides natural light to the cabin and comes with a curtain and multiple ambient lighting settings. Up front, you’ll find a 15.4-inch infotainment screen (linked to a sound system with 21 Bowers & Wilkins speakers), while an additional 15.6-inch screen is mounted in the roof. The latter folds down to provide entertainment for passengers and supports mobile screen projection.

The EM90 rides on 19- or 20-inch aero wheels, while dual-chamber air suspension is standard. It also comes fitted with a broad range of advanced driver-assistance systems.

For now, the new EM90 has been confirmed only for China, though we’d expect the luxury MPV to roll out to other markets in due course. Volvo Car South Africa has yet to announce its plans in this regard, but we will update this story should any more information comes to light.

UPDATE: Greg Maruszewski, Managing Director at Volvo Car South Africa, says: “Local demand for electric vehicles continues to grow at an encouraging pace and we’re well aware that many high-profile South Africans appreciate the space and comfort offered by luxury MPVs. While we have no official announcements to make right now regarding a possible local introduction, we do believe the high-end, fully electric EM90 will be very well received in South Africa by individuals seeking business-class levels of comfort and refinement.”

Ora 03 (2023) Launch Review

South Africa has needed an affordable battery-electric vehicle to build some positive momentum in the EV segment. Enter the Ora 03 from parent brand GWM; we drove it at the local launch in Gauteng to see if it’s the breath of fresh air the segment needs.

What is the range of the GWM Ora?

The Ora 03 is cheap to run

What’s the Ora 03 like to drive?

Ora 03 interior highlights

How big is the Ora electric car?

High level of safety spec

How much does the Ora 03 cost in South Africa?

Summary

Kumbi Mtshakazi: What’s it like to be a #CarsAwards Judge?

Kumbi Mtshakazi: What’s it like to be a #CarsAwards Judge?

1. Introduce yourself and briefly tell us what you do for a living.

2. How many #CarsAwards have you judged and what does it mean to you to be chosen as a judge?

3. What #CarsAwards categories did you judge?

4. You’ve just returned from extensive testing at Gerotek, how was it? Briefly tell us about your experience!

5. The #CarsAwards is regarded as the most respected motoring awards programme in South Africa. In your opinion, what makes the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards unique?

6. What test obstacles at Gerotek did you find to be the most illuminating in terms of testing the finalists and why?

7. Out of all the cars you tested, what car stood out the most for you and why?

8. What cars do you think will win in each category (share your predictions with us) and importantly what car brand do you think will win the Brand Of The Year Award and why?

9. If you attended the Cars.co.za #CarsAwards Roadshow at Mall Of Africa, tell us what you enjoyed most about the experience!

10. Give us 3 words that capture the essence of the 2023/24 #CarsAwards.

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Why the new GWM Tank 300 has been delayed for SA

The GWM Tank was scheduled to launch in South Africa towards the middle of 2023, but now won’t arrive until next year. Here’s why the ladder-frame SUV has been delayed…

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Lexus LX (2023) Review

The Lexus LX has been billed as the “Ultimate Luxury SUV” but will buyers be able to look past the fact that the Japanese premium brand’s 1st-class off-roader is “a posh Toyota Land Cruiser 300”? We put an LX 600 F Sport through its paces to find out…

FAST FACTS

Serious about buying/selling?

Where does the Lexus LX fit in?

How the Lexus LX fares in terms of…

Lexus LX Price and After-Sales Support

Verdict

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Tshidi Malebana: What’s it like to be a #CarsAwards Judge?

Meet Tshidi Malebana, one of 20 judges for the 2023/24 iteration of the #CarsAwards! After a long day of judging 3 categories at the Gerotek Test Facility in Gauteng, we were keen to hear about Tshidi’s experience! Take a look!

Tshidi Malebana: What’s it like to be a #CarsAwards Judge?

1. Introduce yourself and briefly tell us what you do for a living.

2. How many #CarsAwards have you judged and what does it mean to you to be chosen as a judge?

3. What #CarsAwards categories did you judge?

4. You’ve just returned from extensive testing at Gerotek, how was it? Briefly tell us about your experience!

5. The #CarsAwards is regarded as the most respected motoring awards programme in South Africa. In your opinion, what makes the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards unique?

6. What test obstacles at Gerotek did you find to be the most illuminating in terms of testing the finalists and why?

7. Out of all the cars you tested, what car stood out the most for you and why?

8. What cars do you think will win in each category (share your predictions with us) and importantly what car brand do you think will win the Brand Of The Year Award and why?

9. If you attended the Cars.co.za #CarsAwards Roadshow at Mall Of Africa, tell us what you enjoyed most about the experience!

10. Give us 3 words that capture the essence of the 2023/24 #CarsAwards.

Related Content

Ora 03: Price & Specs

GWM’s new Ora 03 is SA’s cheapest battery-electric vehicle, with a starting price of under R700 000, which significantly undercuts its main rival – the Mini Cooper SE.

How much will the GWM Ora cost in South Africa?

Related content

SA’s best-selling imported vehicles in October 2023

Locally built models dominate the list of South Africa’s best-selling cars and bakkies, but what about imported vehicles? Here are the most popular imported cars of October 2023…

SA’s best-selling imported vehicles in October 2023

Related content

Suzuki Jimny 5-Door (2023) Price & Specs

After a long wait, the more practical Suzuki Jimny 5-Door has finally arrived in South Africa. Here’s how much you can expect to pay...

What’s Changed?

Trim Levels

How much does the Suzuki Jimny 5-door cost in South Africa?

Further Reading

MrHowMuch: What’s it like to be a #CarsAwards Judge?

Popular South African motoring Youtuber, MrHowMuch, is a #CarsAwards judge and we’re keen to pick his brain about his testing experience at Gerotek as well as his thoughts on the finalists. Here’s what MrHowMuch has to say about South Africa’s ultimate motoring awards programme!

MrHowMuch: What’s it like to be a #CarsAwards Judge?

1. Introduce yourself and briefly tell us what you do for a living.

2. How many #CarsAwards have you judged and what does it mean to you to be chosen as a judge?

3. What #CarsAwards categories did you judge?

4. You’ve just returned from extensive testing at Gerotek, how was it? Briefly tell us about your experience!

5. The #CarsAwards is regarded as the most respected motoring awards programme in South Africa. In your opinion, what makes the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards unique?

What test obstacles at Gerotek did you find to be the most illuminating in terms of testing the finalists and why?

7. Out of all the cars you tested, what car stood out the most for you and why?

8. What cars do you think will win in each category (share your predictions with us) and importantly what car brand do you think will win the Brand Of The Year Award and why?

9. If you attended the Cars.co.za #CarsAwards Roadshow at Mall Of Africa, tell us what you enjoyed most about the experience!

10. Give us 3 words that capture the essence of the 2023/24 #CarsAwards.

Related Content

New Volvo EM90 luxury MPV revealed as V-Class rival

Meet the new Volvo EM90, a fully electric luxury MPV boasting 200 kW and a claimed range of 738 km. Should the likes of the Mercedes-Benz V-Class be worried?

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