Chery Tiggo 7 Pro Max (2023) Launch Review

With a new face and all-wheel-drive derivative at the summit of its line-up, the Tiggo 7 Pro Max significantly bolsters Chery’s offering in the South African market’s family car segment. We drove the newcomer in the Western Cape this week.

Say hello to the Pro Max; not to be confused with the latest in smartphone technology, it’s the new top-tier iteration of the Chery Tiggo 7. The new car comes with 145 kW and 290 Nm, which makes it much more potent than the 115 kW and 230 Nm on offer in the Tiggo 7 Pro, I’m sure you’ll agree.

Whereas the entry-level Distinctive 2WD retails for R529 900, the range is topped off with a pair of Executive derivatives. The front-wheel-drive version of the Executive (2WD) costs R559 900, but the flagship features all-wheel drive (AWD) – it’s the first Tiggo model in our market to be offered with all-paw traction. For R609 900, the Executive 4WD is the embodiment super well-appointed family car.

ICYMI: Chery Tiggo 7 Pro Max (2023) Price & Specs

A lot has happened in 2 years…

Chery South Africa is only 2 years old, but this is its 6th product launch since the brand returned to our market – quite a bullish assault on the new vehicle market by any stretch of the imagination. And, with the Pro Max, they’ve really hit their stride thanks, in part, to the new 1.6 TGDi engine. It’s been paired with a 7-speed DCT automatic transmission and, on the flagship, distributes its torque via an AWD system.

Exterior styling has been sharpened up somewhat on what was already a handsome exterior (I really like the diamond grille). Clamber aboard, however, and this is where the bulk of the upgrades can be felt.

I refer to the new pair of 12.3-inch screens – one for the entertainment system, and one ahead of the driver for the digital gauges and instruments. It isn’t a new system, but it’s considerably larger than the pair of 10.25-inch items that previously lived here.

What’s more, the audio is now blasted via a Sony 8-speaker system, the wireless phone charger has been upgraded from 15W to 50W (to facilitate fast charging), plus a 360-degree camera system features on the Executive derivatives. As before, you’ll encounter Android Auto, wireless Apple Carplay and a generally tech-laden cabin, which is bathed in natural light courtesy of a panoramic sunroof.

For bonus mood settings, there are 64 shades of ambient lighting to choose from. Settle into the new sports seats and, if you’re in the AWD version, you’ll notice that where there are 3 drive modes in the 2WD derivative, there are 6 modes in the flagship: Eco, Normal, Sport plus Snow, Mud and Off-Road.

It’s worth noting that Chery considers itself to be a quick-moving technology company (as opposed to a mere car manufacturer). Naturally, when it comes to vehicle tech, we don’t want it to move too quickly – for fear of missing out on what typically takes generations of development to gain through trial and error.

The Chinese brand has managed to essentially halve the time it takes to bring new products from pencil to asphalt, which makes our job of evaluating their efforts even more critical. If you’ve driven a Chery product (and that includes the Omoda C5), you will have encountered (or been driven mad by) a number of beeps and bongs, pings and whistles to indicate when you’re speeding. Also, when you’re crossing into lanes, when you need to take a break, when you’ve engaged reverse and so on, ad infinitum.

But this is a strategic move to get a 5-star global safety rating (not to mention a jump on the opposition). It’s a pity that the tech feels so invasive, but it’s the standard that Chery’s striving for as it looks to enter the European market… and it’s the standard we’re being sold with our South African passenger cars.

How much does the Chery Tiggo 7 Pro Max cost in SA?

Every Tiggo 7 Pro Max comes with a 5-year/60 000 km service plan, along with a 1-million-kilometre/10-year engine warranty.

Tiggo 7 Pro Max Distinction 2WD	R529 900
Tiggo 7 Pro Max Executive 2WD	R559 900
Tiggo 7 Pro Max Executive AWD	R609 900

Summary

The Tiggo 7 Pro Max is more than a facelift with the wick turned up – it is a bold statement on the part of Chery South Africa. A Tiggo 8 Pro Max is a finalist in the family car category of the 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards because, among other things, it offers “an awful lot of luxurious medium SUV” at its price point – but it has 7 seats, which is a nice-to-have, but not a requirement for most family car buyers.

The Tiggo 7 Pro Max, by comparison, is a 5-seater medium SUV at an even keener price point. It rides as well as it looks (sitting as it does on a multi-link suspension, front and rear) with safety further bolstered by an 8-airbag configuration. Plus, in Executive AWD guise, it offers all-wheel drive, which adds all-road ability to an already lengthy list of talents, for the same price as a Tiggo 8 Pro 1.6TGDI 290T Executive.

On the downside, the Tiggo 7 Pro Max may ride well and pull strongly, but, as is often the case with models from fledgling brands, it could benefit from better fuel consumption. Think of the penalty at the pumps as the premium you pay after the savings you’ve made on the purchase price… and you’ll be fine.

10 Fuel Efficient Used Compact SUVs under R300k

Fuel efficiency is an important factor to consider when buying a car but what cars should you consider if you are shopping for a compact SUV or crossover in the used car market with a budget of up to R300 000? Here are 10 budget-friendly fuel-efficient compact SUVs to take a closer look at!

The compact SUV segment is hugely popular in South Africa at the moment and new car buyers have so much choice over a wide price range.

However, it’s no secret that rapidly increasing fuel prices are putting tremendous strain on household budgets and many buyers are turning to the used car market in an effort to find a more affordable mobility solution.

Anyone that’s considering taking the leap to purchase a car will have to think about the operating costs (maintenance, insurance etc.) of that vehicle, including fuel costs. Fuel efficiency is therefore an important factor to consider whether you are buying a new or used car.

So, if fuel efficiency is important to you and you have a budget of up to R300 000 to spend on a used compact SUV, then this list will help you find one!

If you are unsure about how much you are able to afford to spend on a car then we suggest you use our new Car Affordability Calculator and you can also work our estimated monthly premiums using your Finance Calculator.

Fuel Efficient Used Compact SUVs Available in South Africa

1. Renault Captur 1.5 DCi Dynamique – From 3.6 L/100km

Renault introduced the Captur way back in 2015 and while it proved to be quite popular with local buyers, it was the diesel-powered Captur that impressed the most with its low fuel consumption. The 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine under the bonnet produces 66 kW and 220 Nm and is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission.

The new Renault Captur arrived earlier in 2023, but a diesel engine is no longer on offer.

Buy a used Renault Duster 1.5 DCi Dynamique for under R300k on Cars.co.za

2. Peugeot 2008 1.6 HDi Active – From 4.0 L/100km

The new Peugeot 2008 has been available in South Africa since 2021 and it’s undoubtedly one of the best products in this segment. However, the previous generation 2008 also had much to offer and the diesel-powered 2008 returned impressive fuel economy. A 1.6-litre turbodiesel engine does service under bonnet with 68 kW and 230 Nm on offer and is mated with a 5-speed manual transmission.

Buy a used Peugeot 2008 1.6 HDI on Cars.co.za for under R300k

3. Nissan Qashqai / Juke 1.5 dCi Acenta – From 4.2 L/100km

The new Nissan Qashqai arrived locally in 2022 but buyers can consider the outgoing generation diesel-powered Qashqai with 81 kW and 260 Nm of torque on offer which is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission and claims to return just 4.2 L/100km. The Nissan Juke employs the same powertrain and thus offers buyers with some choice from the Nissan stable.

Buy a used Nissan Qashqai 1.5 dCi for under R300k on Cars.co.za

Buy a used Nissan Juke 1.6 dCi for under R300k on Cars.co.za

4. Opel Crossland X 1.6 TD Enjoy – From 4.4 L/100km

The Opel Crossland X is an often overlooked choice in this segment, but it shouldn’t be. The Crossland X 1.6 turbodiesel derivative is the most frugal in the range and it offers 68 kW and 230 Nm of torque and is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission.

Buy a used Opel Crossland X for under R300k on Cars.co.za

5. Ford EcoSport 1.5 TDCi Ambiente / Titanium – From 4.6 L/100km

The diesel Ford EcoSport is well-known for returning low fuel consumption figures. The 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine under the bonnet produces 74 kW and 205 Nm and is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. Note that the EcoSport is no longer in production.

Also see: Ford EcoSport (2013-2023) Buyer’s Guide

Buy a used Ford EcoSport 1.5 TDCi for under R300k on Cars.co.za

6. Jeep Renegade 1.6 MJet Limited – From 4.6 L/100km

Jeep isn’t often associated with fuel economy but the diesel-powered Renegade MJet Limited returns fair economy. The turbocharged 1.6-litre diesel engine delivers 88 kW and 320 Nm making it one of the more powerful options on this list and it combines with a 6-speed manual transmission to get the job done.

Buy a used Jeep Renegade 1.6 MJet for under R300k on Cars.co.za

7. Mahindra XUV300 1.5TD W8 – 4.8 L/100km

The updated Mahindra XUV300 arrived in South Africa earlier in 2022 and the diesel-powered W8 derivative claims fuel consumption at 4.8 L/100km. The 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine offers 86 kW and 300 Nm of torque and is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission.

Buy used Mahindra XUV300 1.5TD for under R300k on Cars.co.za

8. Volkswagen T-Cross 70 kW Comfortline – From 4.8 L/100km

Volkswagen cracks a nod on this list with the T-Cross Comfortline. The turbocharged 1.0-litre petrol engine develops 70 kW and 175 Nm and is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission.

Buy a used Volkswagen T-Cross 70 kW Comfortline for under R300k on Cars.co.za

9. Renault Kiger Turbo Intens / Zen – 5.0 L/100km

Renault’s budget-friendly Kiger hits the fuel efficiency mark in Intens and Zen guise and it packs a turbocharged 1.0-litre petrol engine offering 74 kW and 160 Nm and is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission.

Buy a used Renault Kiger Turbo for under R300k on Cars.co.za

10. Renault Duster 1.5 dCi Zen – 5.1 L/100km

Renault rounds out this list with the popular Duster in diesel guise offering good real-world fuel consumption returns. The 1.5-litre turbodiesel under the bonnet offers 80 kW and 240 Nm and comes paired with a 6-speed manual transmission.

Buy a used Renault Duster 1.5 DCi on Cars.co.za

Mercedes-AMG GT63 SE Performance 4‑Door Coupé (2023) Price & Specs

We’ve uncovered local pricing for the refreshed 620 kW Mercedes-AMG GT63 SE Performance 4‑Door Coupé, which arrives as the most expensive model in the brand’s high-performance range…

Mercedes-Benz South Africa has quietly added the wordily named Mercedes-AMG GT63 SE Performance 4Matic+ 4‑Door Coupé to its local configurator. So, how much will the refreshed version of this 620 kW all-wheel-drive plug-in hybrid monster cost you?

Well, it arrives as the most expensive model in the Affalterbach-based division’s local line-up, bearing a starting price of R4 036 144 (excluding the cost of a maintenance plan, according to the Mercedes-Benz SA configurator, which pushes the price to R4 219 301). That sees it slot in above the likes of the Mercedes-AMG GLE63 S 4Matic+ (R3 827 538) and the Mercedes-AMG G63 (R3 962 717).

Revealed as recently as October 2023, the updated GT63 SE Performance 4‑Door Coupé sticks with its mighty PHEV powertrain, which here comprises a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 petrol engine and various hybrid components (as well as the AMG Speedshift MCT 9G transmission). As before, peak system outputs stand at a lofty 620 kW and 1470 Nm, which facilitate a 0-100 kph sprint in a claimed 2.9 seconds and a top speed of 316 kph.

Revisions to this model – which again ships with air suspension featuring adaptive adjustment damping but also gains a bit of extra standard kit – include a wider air inlet below the AMG-specific grille and vertical air ducts integrated into the outside of the front apron. Inside, the apex version of the GT 4-Door Coupé scores an updated version of the MBUX multimedia system, including AMG-specific items.

In South Africa, the GT63 SE Performance can be specified with all manner of add-ons, from the AMG Night Package (R17 300) and AMG Exterior Chrome Package (R19 100) to the AMG Aerodynamics Package (R51 800), AMG Exterior Carbon Package (R67 300) and AMG Exterior Carbon-Fibre Package II (R81 800).

In addition, Mercedes-Benz SA offers a range of alloy wheels (over and above the standard 20-inch AMG 5-twin-spoke light-alloy items), along with a panoramic sunroof (R22 500, though a sliding sunroof is now standard), AMG sports stripes (R11 000), AMG Performance seats (R35 000), a head-up display (R18 100), Driving Assistance Plus Package (R44 000) and power-closing doors (R10 000).

Mercedes-AMG GT63 SE Performance price in South Africa

Mercedes-AMG GT63 SE Performance 4‑Door Coupé – R4 036 144

Note the price above does not include a maintenance plan, which Mercedes-Benz SA says the “customer shall be entitled to include in the purchase”. Including the motorplan, the starting price rises to R4 219 301.

Ford Puma (2023) Price & Specs

We recently broke the news that the Ford Puma was destined for South Africa. Now the Blue Oval brand has released pricing for this subcompact crossover. Here’s how much you’ll pay…

In August 2023, Cars.co.za broke the news that the Ford Puma was coming to South Africa. Now the Blue Oval brand has finally confirmed this model for a local introduction, while also announcing pricing for the subcompact crossover.

As a reminder, the Puma was revealed for European markets as long ago as June 2019. But, just as our information suggested, this model is scheduled to launch in South Africa in October 2023, with the local line-up comprising 2 derivatives: a 1.0 EcoBoost Titanium and a 1.0 EcoBoost ST-Line Vignale.

The Puma Titanium will be priced from R569 900, while the Puma ST-Line Vignale will start at R613 900. Take note these prices do not include the cost of a service plan, which Ford says buyers “have the option of purchasing”.

In South Africa, the Puma will launch with a single engine option in the form of the familiar turbocharged 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder EcoBoost petrol engine, which here generates peak outputs of 92 kW and 170 Nm. Both the Titanium and ST-Line Vignale variants will ship standard with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.

The Titanium grade features black-machined 17-inch alloy wheels, and chrome elements for the grille, side skirts and fog lamps. The rear diffuser and skid plate on this derivative are finished in metallic grey, while the window surrounds are finished in gloss black. Inside, the Titanium boasts a leather-trimmed steering wheel, “wood-effect appliques” for the cluster bezel and instrument panel, and fabric inserts for the door interiors.

Meanwhile, the ST-Line Vignale rides on black 18-inch machined alloy wheels and gains a sports suspension. Up front, the ST-Line grille features matte-black elements and a high-gloss surround, along with glossy foglamp surrounds and a larger rear spoiler. Inside, the ST‑Line Vignale scores a flat-bottomed steering wheel, red contrast stitching, alloy pedals, an aluminium gear shifter and black headliner.

Ford claims the Puma has a luggage capacity of 456 litres, while the so-called “Ford MegaBox” – providing a “versatile storage space that is capable of comfortably accommodating 2 golf bags in an upright position” – will be optional.

Safety features standard on both variants will include ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, hill-launch assist, tyre-pressure monitoring, auto high beams, a lane-keeping system and 6 airbags. An optional Driver Assistance Pack – adding items such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, front parking sensors, a reverse-view camera, active park assist and a driver-impairment monitor – will also be offered. Furthermore, the top-spec derivative will be available with an optional ST-Line Styling Pack.

As a reminder, the Puma measures 4 186 mm long in standard guise (and 4 207 mm in ST-Line form), with a wheelbase of 2 588 mm. Though the Puma is clearly not positioned as a driver of significant volumes, the Dearborn-based company’s local division will nevertheless be glad to add a fresh-to-SA model (even one revealed as long ago as mid-2019) to its passenger-vehicle line-up.

Why? Well, production of the EcoSport has officially ended at both the Chennai facility in India and the Craiova plant in Romania, and local stock is run virtually dry (just 9 units were registered in South Africa in August 2023). Though it won’t serve as a direct successor to the more budget-friendly EcoSport, the Puma will at least bolster a passenger-vehicle line-up that has effectively been reduced to the outgoing Mustang and new Everest. Remember, the Fiesta was discontinued locally in March 2022 (before Ford pulled the plug globally), with the Figo following soon thereafter.

The Puma will be available in a choice of 5 exterior colours: Frozen White, Fantastic Red, Grey Matter, Desert Island Blue and Magnetic.

How much does the Ford Puma cost in South Africa?

Ford Puma 1.0 EcoBoost Titanium – R569 900

Ford Puma 1.0 EcoBoost ST-Line Vignale – R613 900

The prices above include a 4-year/120 000 km warranty, while Ford says customers “have the option” of purchasing service or maintenance plans up to 8 years or 135 000 km (service intervals are 15 000 km).

Europe’s 2024 Car of the Year: 7 finalists revealed

The shortlist of vehicles in the running for Europe’s Car of the Year 2024 title has been whittled down to just 7 contenders. Let’s take a closer look at the finalists…

The organisers of Europe’s 2024 Car of the Year award have announced the 7 finalists in the running for the title.

While as many as 28 nominees were considered from the outset, the jury – which comprises 59 journalists representing 22 countries in Europe – has now whittled down that list to just 7 vehicles.

The winner of the Car of the Year trophy – which has been in existence since 1964 – will be announced on 26 February 2024 at the Geneva International Motor Show. As a reminder, the Jeep Avenger took the 2023 title, while the Kia EV6 triumphed in 2022 and the Toyota Yaris won in 2021.

So, which models made the cut this year? Well, there’s the G60-generation BMW 5 Series and the 2nd-gen Toyota C-HR, along with fully electric models in the form of the BYD Seal, Kia EV9, Renault Scenic, Volvo EX30 and Peugeot e-3008 (though the combustion-engined 3008 is also included).

That means 2 sedans are up for the award, along with 5 crossover or SUV models. Meanwhile, relatively big names that failed to make the cut include the BMW XM, Ford Bronco, Honda CR-V, Mercedes-Benz E-Class and Volkswagen ID.7.

Take a look at the 7 finalists below, in alphabetical order:

BMW 5 Series

BYD Seal

Kia EV9

Peugeot e-3008/3008

Renault Scenic

Toyota C-HR

Volvo EX30

Chery considers sporty Arrizo 8 sedan for SA

Given its rapidly expanding dealer footprint and product line-up in South Africa, you might assume that Chery South Africa has enough on its plate, but the Chinese brand is also thinking about launching the Arrizo 8 business-class sedan in Mzansi.

The demise of the sedan market in South Africa – and, indeed, most of the world – has largely been attributed to consumers’ love affair with crossovers and SUVs of all shapes and sizes.

The Chinese brands, which are largely free from the shackles of legacy platforms, have been particularly swift in exploiting this trend, and many of their successes in export markets have been built on the back of expansive crossover and SUV ranges. Okay, so why is Chery considering a sedan for South Africa?

The vehicle in question is the new Arrizo 8. Much like Tiggo is Chery’s crossover nameplate, Arrizo is reserved for sedans, and there are a number of different variants on offer in China. The Arrizo 8 is the latest addition and I recently had time to experience the stylish fastback sedan (it looks like it has a liftback, but doesn’t) in China, where I also took it for a short drive.

Size-wise, the Arrizo 8 is about 70 mm longer and 20 mm taller than a BMW 3 Series, but its wheelbase is 60 mm shorter than that of its German counterpart. That’s not to say that it’s cramped in the back – far from it – I could sit very comfortably behind the driver’s seat when it had been set up to my driving position (for context, I am 1.8 metres tall). What’s more, the Arrizo’s boot is capacious and nicely shaped.

It’s an attractive car with sharp design details; in my opinion, the car’s rear end is particularly attractive.

The 2.0-litre turbopetrol derivative, which uses the same engine as the 2023/24 #CarsAwards category finalist – the Tiggo 8 Pro Max (which produces 187 kW and 390 Nm) – has a quartet of exhaust tips.

The cabin will really make jaws drop, however. It’s stunningly modern, beautifully crafted and awash with high-quality materials; there is plenty of Mercedes-Benz in some of the design details, but (and I say this with the utmost respect) it feels more solidly made than the Three-pointed Star’s latest offerings.

The drivetrain being considered for Mzansi is the 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbopetrol mated with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and… all-wheel drive! I recently tested the Tiggo 8 Pro Max and was impressed with how much its driveability (and efficiency) has improved (along with the performance).

With its lower centre of gravity, figure-hugging driver’s seat and prompt responses to driver inputs, the Arrizo 8 proved quite impressive during my short stint behind its ‘wheel. No claimed performance figures are stated, but given its drivetrain, the sedan should have a 0-100 kph time of around 6.5 seconds.

But will the Arrizo 8 come to South Africa? And, perhaps more importantly, why? At the moment, Chery South Africa’s official feedback is that chances of the sedan being introduced in the Republic are slim, because it’s still under development and hasn’t been greenlit for production in right-hand-drive guise.

Speaking to a Chery spokesperson in China, however, I got the sense that the Arrizo 8 is, in fact, under serious consideration, even though its pricing may be relatively steep, and sales volume probably small.

The reason I say that is the Arrizo 8 is so well-resolved that it would be a great perception changer (as the Stinger sports sedan was for Kia), even if it doesn’t necessarily sell in great numbers. A loss leader, then… and a loss that Chery is more than willing to absorb – because it wants to make a statement.

Car Insurance Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Because car insurance can seem like a complex and daunting topic to some motorists, Budget Insurance has compiled a handy car insurance guide that explains the basics of car insurance, including legal requirements, coverage options and terminology.

PARTNERED CONTENT

Is it mandatory to have car insurance?

No, car insurance is not a legal requirement in South Africa, but rather a choice left to drivers’ discretion. However, you may be required to get insurance if you buy your car through a vehicle-finance agreement.

The Automobile Association of South Africa states that there are approximately 11 million registered vehicles in the country, and up to 70% of those are uninsured. That means, on average, that only 3 out of every 10 cars on the road are insured. But that begs the question: If your car is involved in a vehicular collision, how confident are you that you’d be able to recover the cost of repairs from the other party?

Why even bother with taking out cover?

If it’s not a legal requirement to insure your car, why would you need to peruse a car insurance guide? Because it’s important to have a car insurance policy for the sake of financial security and financing.

Remember, if you don’t have any car cover and you’re involved in an incident, such as colliding with another vehicle, object or structure, you are solely responsible for paying for all repairs. You may even need to compensate a 3rd party if you were deemed at fault for damaging their vehicle or property.

Because most people cannot afford to repair their vehicles out of pocket, it’s advisable to safeguard yourself by taking out a car insurance policy and paying its monthly premiums on time. That way, you will be covered financially for a covered event, depending on the type of insurance plan you’ve taken out.

And, if you owe money on your car it’s advisable to take out car insurance because, even if you suffer a total loss of the vehicle (through theft or an accident), you will still have to pay off your debt. Most banks stipulate that you need to purchase comprehensive car insurance when you buy a vehicle through them.

How much is Car Insurance?

The cost of car insurance is multifaceted. An insurance company will usually conduct a risk assessment on each individual application based on a number of different factors, such as the prospective client’s age, driving history, where they park their car, the age, make and model of their vehicle, their geographical location and even the amount of time they spend on the road…

In addition, there are several types of vehicle Insurance policies that will each have different monthly premiums based on the coverage they provide. The more cover they provide, the higher the premiums.

Requirements for car insurance

Applying for a car insurance quote is simple and easy. You will need to supply the following information:

Personal information, including your age, address, ID number and contact details.
Vehicle information: the make, model, year and VIN number, along with the registration details proving ownership.
Driving history: you may be asked to provide information related to your driving record, including car accidents or car insurance claims.
Coverage preferences: you will be asked to select the type of car insurance you want, along with the level of coverage.
Payment information: a method of payment for your insurance premium.

What does Car Insurance cover?

Your coverage will depend on the type of insurance you take out. Your most common options include:

Comprehensive Car Insurance covers loss, theft, and damage to your own car. It also covers fire damage and damage to a 3rd party’s property or vehicle, even if you’re the cause of an accident.
Third-Party, Fire and Theft Car Insurance – this covers theft and fire damage to your car and any 3rd-party damage you may cause in an accident.
Third-Party Only Car Insurance will only cover damage to a 3rd party’s vehicle or property that results from an accident in which you are deemed to be at fault.

Some insurers, such as Budget Insurance, also offer several add-on insurance policies if you have identified specific risks for which you’d like to receive extra coverage. Plus, you can receive a cashback reward by remaining claim-free for a period of 2 years. So if you’d like to maintain a “clean” record, you can rely on these auto add-on policies to take care of any minor scrapes. Some of the policies include:

Motor Warranty: Vehicles and their parts do not last forever. With a Pre-owned or Extended Motor Warranty, you’re covered for mechanical and electrical problems when your manufacturer’s warranty expires.
Scratch & Dent Cover: You can take care of those small (but annoying) scratches, scrapes, dents, and chips on the body of your car without having to claim on your primary car insurance policy.
Tyre & Rim Guard: To replace a tyre or fix a rim after you’ve hit a pothole or debris on the road.
Auto Top-Up: If your car is stolen or written off, your payout may not fully cover what you owe on your financed car. Auto Top-Up pays the difference.

Want to know more about car insurance?

We hope that you have found this car insurance guide helpful. Remember, if you want to learn more about car insurance or review your car insurance requirements with the help of experts, Budget Insurance’s team is always ready to assist. Contact them on 086 1600 120 or utilise their online car insurance calculator, which gives you an accurate and budget-friendly quote in minutes.

New Toyota Hilux Champ: engine details drop

The new Toyota Hilux Champ has officially launched in Thailand, with the Japanese firm confirming the ladder-frame bakkie’s engine options, payload capacity and more…

Meet the new Toyota Hilux Champ. Orders for the Japanese firm’s latest ladder-frame bakkie have officially opened in Thailand, with the company also announcing details of the engine line-up and load-carrying capacity.

As a reminder, Toyota revealed the IMV 0 Concept in Thailand towards the end of 2022, before showing off a few interesting applications of the bakkie concept in August 2023. Further iterations were then unwrapped at the Japan Mobility Show 2023, while a production-ready version was spotted wearing the “Hilux Champ” badge earlier in November.

Now, Toyota has confirmed the Hilux Champ nameplate (one that South Africans will associate with the Rosslyn-built Nissan 1400 bakkie that preceded the NP200), offering its new single-cab workhorse in both short- and long-wheelbase form. At launch in Thailand, as many as 8 grades are on offer, while 11 customised models were shown. There is also an “unequipped” version featuring a flat deck with bolt holes at various locations, allowing custom accessories to be attached.

So, what about the engines range? Well, in Thailand, the new 2-seater Hilux Champ will be offered with a choice of 3 powerplants that will be familiar to Hilux buyers here in South Africa. There’s the naturally aspirated 2.0-litre petrol unit (102 kW and 183 Nm), the likewise atmospheric 2.7-litre petrol motor (122 kW and 245 Nm) and the 2.4-litre turbodiesel mill. Initially at least, all drive the rear axle only.

The oil-burning motor makes 110 kW and 400 Nm, and will be available with either a 5-speed manual gearbox or a 6-speed automatic transmission (yes, just like in Hilux). The payload capacity for this rear-wheel-drive Champ derivative is listed as 1 000 kg, while the gross vehicle mass (GVM) appears to be somewhere in the region of 2 790 kg.

The long-wheelbase version boasts 3 085 mm between its axles, precisely the same distance between the axles of the current-gen Hilux. It measures 5 300 mm from nose to tail, which is 30 mm longer than a single-cab Hilux but 25 mm shorter than extended- and double-cab versions of Toyota’s big-selling bakkie. It’s 1 785 mm wide (a touch narrower than a standard Hilux) and stands 1 740 mm tall.

*In Thailand, the Champ can be fitted with a number of accessories.*

In Thailand, prices run from 459 000 to 577 000 baht, which translates to pricing bookends of R244 158 and R306 926 at the prevailing exchange rate (27 November 2023). So, on that note, will we see the new Hilux Champ – which has already gone into production at Toyota’s Samrong Plant in Thailand – in South Africa, too?

Well, that remains to be seen, but it’s worth keeping in mind that earlier in 2023, as reported by IOL Motoring, Toyota SA Motors executives hinted at an upcoming model that could slot in below the Hilux and likely be built at the same factory in KwaZulu-Natal. It’s looking more and more likely the Champ (if it indeed wears that badge here) will be that bakkie, considering it seemingly shares its underpinnings with the current-generation Hilux…

Jaecoo J7 coming to SA in Q1 2024

Jaecoo, which, like Omoda, is a sub-brand of Chery, will arrive in the SA new-vehicle market soon, with the J7 premium family car slated for introduction in early 2024.

Cars.co.za recently reported that Chery South Africa would launch a handful of new models in Mzansi next year, including 2 models of the Jaecoo brand, a brace of plug-in hybrids and then, in 2025, a battery-electric vehicle.

Did you know that Omoda, of which the new C9 flagship will be launched imminently, is but one-half of a division that Chery refers to as O&J? The “J” stands for Jaecoo, a portmanteau of “Jae” (a contraction of the German word for hunter Jager) and “cool”.

Styled as an “urban off-road SUV marque”, Jaecoo is – like Omoda – an upmarket marque with a striking design language and a high level of technology; one could say that Jaecoo is for Chery, what Haval and Tank are for Great Wall Motor.

Measuring 4 500 mm in length, 1 865 mm in width and 1 680 mm in height (with a 2 650-mm wheelbase), the Jaecoo J7 is boldly styled, to put it mildly.

The model’s exterior design blends blocky old-school off-roader proportions with slick, modern finishes and is said to embody the brand’s slogan of “From Classic, Beyond Classic”.

“(The Jaecoo J7 is) tougher than typical urban SUVs, but more comfortable than traditional off-roaders,” says Shannon Gahagan, the South African brand and marketing manager for Omoda&Jaecoo (O&J). “(It incorporates) a raft of remarkable safety features, forward-thinking technologies and chic design”.

To your eyes, the Jaecoo J7’s matrix-style grille takes inspiration from Mercedes-AMG’s Panamericana treatment. Slim, technical-looking LED headlamps flank the grille, while the door handles are flush-fitting, and the rear styling is, well, Range Rover-esque, replete with a tailgate-spanning LED bar and spoiler.

The chunky and angular aesthetic continues in the cabin with (ahem) Jeep-style door handles and straight lines perpendicular to one other with a portrait-oriented infotainment screen on the fascia – O&J claims it measures 24.6 inches (diagonally).

Although the local subsidiary of O&J hasn’t confirmed this, we believe the Jaecoo J7 will be powered by a 1.6-litre 4-cylinder turbopetrol engine that develops about 140 kW and 275 Nm of torque (it might match the Chery Tiggo 7 Pro’s 145 kW/290 Nm).

It’s likely that the Jaecoo J7 will be made available in both front- and all-wheel-drive guises in conjunction with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Gahagan said (at least one derivative in the local line-up) will be “endowed with Jaecoo’s proprietary ARDIS intelligent off-roading system (with) as many as 7 drive modes (that allow) it to adapt to a wide variety of terrains.

“While our product rollout in South Africa will commence with the Jaecoo J7 early in 2024, there’s plenty more to come from the brand.

“Later next year, Jaecoo will also launch the new, larger J8 – packed full of more segment-redefining features, from an ultra-smart curved infotainment screen to row-specific climate control,” Gahagan adds.

*We saw the Jaecoo 8 in the metal in Wuhan, China earlier this year.*

Furthermore, the J7 plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) variant is set to be introduced in Q3 2024, before the flagship J8 arrives in Q4 2024. More details, including local pricing and specs, will be released closer to the respective models’ launches in 2024.

VW’s global CEO sounds warning to SA

The CEO of the Volkswagen brand says he is “very worried” about the future of the German automaker’s manufacturing operations in South Africa…

Thomas Schäfer, global CEO of the Volkswagen brand, has sounded a warning to South Africa, saying he is “very worried” about the future of vehicle manufacturing in the country.

Speaking to Reuters, Schäfer pointed to South Africa’s persistent load-shedding, sustained logistical issues (both on the railways and at the ports) and increasing labour costs as key disadvantages to building cars in the country.

*The Kariega plant in the Eastern Cape traces its roots back to 1947.*

VW SA currently manufactures the prolonged lifecycle Polo Vivo and the Polo hatchback at its Kariega factory in the Eastern Cape. The facility produces the Polo hatch for all right-hand-drive markets – while also supplementing production for left-hand-drive markets – and is the sole producer of the Polo GTI. However, many key export destinations are shifting towards electric vehicles (EVs), casting doubt on the global future of the Polo nameplate.

UPDATE: We don’t want to leave Mzansi, says VW SA boss

That said, back in November 2022, VW SA announced its intention to add a new model to its local production line, confirming the upcoming vehicle would ride on the same MQB-A0 platform as the Polo hatchback with a planned production start in 2026 or 2027. The company has also mentioned the possibility of a small bakkie being spun off the same platform.

*Schäfer was once the head of Volkswagen Group South Africa.*

But the latest comments from Schäfer – the former head of Volkswagen Group South Africa – suggest the Wolfsburg-based brand is closely examining its local operations as it continues a global cost-cutting drive in a bid to remain competitive in the transition to electric cars.

“Eventually you have to say, ‘why are we building cars in a less-competitive factory somewhere far away from the real market where the consumption is?’. I’m very worried about it… We’re not in the business of charity,” he said, according to the Reuters report.

*VW has been building the Polo in SA since 1996.*

Schaefer, who was appointed global CEO around the middle of 2022, told Reuters that his local team had made strides in what he termed an “uphill battle” but emphasised it was up to the South African government to solve the various issues facing vehicle manufacturers in the country. According to a Business Day report, however, the VW boss added the Kariega facility was safe “for now”.

So, what about a potential switch to building electric cars? Well, Schaefer echoed the sentiments of Martina Biene, chairperson and managing director of Volkswagen Group South Africa, who earlier this year told Cars.co.za it would likely be more than a decade before the German brand started producing EVs at its Kariega plant.

Interestingly, though, Schaefer added that South Africa – which enjoys proximity advantages when it comes to critical minerals such as lithium and cobalt – could transform itself into an EV battery manufacturing hub, should suitable government policies be put in place.

“There’s a realistic chance that South Africa, with enough focus, with all the raw materials in the neighbourhood, they could be a champion,” he said.

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