Another one bites the dust. Yes, the Nissan Almera has been quietly killed off in South Africa, ending the 3rd-gen budget sedan’s 10-year run on the local market…
The death knell has finally sounded for the Nissan Almera in South Africa. Cars.co.za can confirm the Japanese automaker’s local division has stopped importing stock of the long-in-the-tooth budget sedan. The news means Nissan no longer markets a sedan in Mzansi, with the Sentra having been scrapped as long ago as late-2016.
In July, we noticed local sales of the Indian-built sedan – typically a popular vehicle among rental and fleet buyers – had tapered off markedly through the year, from a high of 785 units in January 2023 to a mere 7 units in June 2023 (and then 10 units last month). So, on 20 July, we approached Nissan South Africa for comment on whether the Almera was still on the market. No feedback was forthcoming.
The Almera nameplate returned to SA in 2013 with the arrival of the N17 generation.
After a follow-up on 25 July and several subsequent – likewise unsuccessful* – attempts to source an official response from the brand in August, we decided to do some digging ourselves. We spoke to 2 separate sources, both of which confirmed the Almera had indeed been put out to pasture locally.
Technically, of course, the vehicle is on runout (and is still included both on Nissan SA’s website and in its official price list), but we understand local stock has now run virtually dry – exactly as the latest sales figures suggest. Despite the fact Nissan stopped importing this model at some point earlier this year, the Almera ranked 2nd on the list of SA’s best-selling sedans in the 1st half of 2023, behind only the locally built Toyota Corolla Quest.
Year to date, the Almera is Nissan’s SA 2nd best-selling passenger vehicle.
Though it’s perhaps flown under the radar somewhat, the Almera was an important vehicle for Nissan South Africa in terms of sales volumes. Over the opening 7 months of this year, 1 573 units of the sedan were registered locally, making it the automaker’s 2nd most-popular passenger vehicle after the Magnite.
After a 7-year hiatus (when it was replaced locally by the Tiida), the Almera nameplate returned to South Africa in August 2013, with the launch of the N17-gen model, complete with a 490-litre boot capacity. The front-wheel-drive sedan – which was known in some countries as the Sunny, Versa, V-Drive or Latio – remained largely unchanged over its decade on the local market, bar a minor update in September 2014. In fact, the Mk3 Almera soldiered on locally despite a 4th-gen model being revealed for overseas markets in 2019.
The Almera badge is no more in South Africa after a 10-year run.
The local Almera range comprised 2 derivatives, each powered by Nissan’s naturally aspirated 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine and differentiated only by their transmissions (a 5-speed manual gearbox or a 4-speed automatic cog-swapper). Peak outputs for this atmospheric engine stood at 73 kW and 134 Nm. The 1.5 Acenta manual was last priced at R291 900, while the 1.5 Acenta auto cost R310 000.
The Almera isn’t the only well-known Nissan nameplate to have been discontinued in South Africa in recent times. The NP300 Hardbody, 370Z, Micra and GT-R (not to mention the entire Datsun brand) were all axed fairly recently, while production of the NP200 half-tonner – which has made 4th place on the list of SA’s best-selling bakkies very much its own and is easily Nissan’s strongest seller overall – is scheduled to end at Rosslyn in March 2024.
*On 25 August, Nissan SA provided us with the following statement: “Nissan South Africa can confirm that the Nissan Almera platform has reached the end of its extended lifecycle. As part of Nissan’s SUV leadership strategy, the Magnite, Qashqai and X-Trail were introduced to the South African market. Nissan remains committed to ensuring the continued satisfaction of Almera customers and as such will continue offering service parts after the end of sales”.
The Toyota Rangga concept has been revealed in Indonesia, previewing a versatile new single-cab bakkie. Here’s what we know about this boxy workhorse so far…
Meet the new Toyota Rangga, a versatile single-cab bakkie concept that the Japanese automaker plans to put into production at an as-yet-unconfirmed date.
Revealed at the Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) 2023, the “multi-purpose” show vehicle appears to be related to the IMV 0 Concept unwrapped in Thailand back in December 2022.
Unfortunately, as was the case with the IMV 0 Concept, technical details on the Rangga are frustratingly thin on the ground, so we don’t even have a firm idea of external dimensions, never mind payload capacity or engine options.
Still, Toyota interestingly used the show to demonstrate a number of potential conversion applications for the Rangga concept, including a mobile café, an ambulance, a mobile EV charging service and even a pace car, all based on the boxy single-cab bakkie.
Judging by the images, the Toyota Rangga – a nameplate initially used on a variation of the 4th-generation Kijang and further said to be inspired by the Javanese word for “hero” – employs a ladder-frame configuration, complete with leaf springs at the rear.
It’s not yet clear exactly when the Rangga will reach production, though some reports suggest it could be as early as 2024, with an initial market launch likely to take place in Thailand before the vehicle rolls out to other emerging markets, such as Indonesia. Whether or not such a model is on the cards for South Africa remains to be seen.
Separately, a recent report out of the United States claimed Toyota was mulling a Corolla-based bakkie. Of course, such a vehicle – which, in contrast, would be unibody in construction and pitched at recreational users – would be an entirely different prospect to the utilitarian Rangga.
Furthermore, 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. As we’ve touched on before, however, we suspect this will end up being a prolonged-lifecycle version of the Hilux (a “Hilux Quest”, if you will) rather than an all-new model (or indeed a unibody half-tonner).
The keenly priced (but strangely named) Suzuki Fronx small crossover has touched down in South Africa. We briefly drove the newcomer in the Western Cape.
What is it?
The Fronx is the latest addition to Suzuki’s small crossover line-up. It’s essentially a raised-body variant of the Baleno hatchback (from which the Toyota Starlet is cloned) and incorporates offroader-inspired elements such as extra ground clearance, high-profile tyres, wheel-arch cladding and chunky bumpers.
Under the sheet metal is HEARTECT – a modular platform that serves as the foundation for a number of modern Suzuki products. You’d think that Suzuki has the so-called “baby SUV” market covered with the likes of the Grand Vitara, Vitara, (the outgoing) Vitara Brezza and the pint-sized Ignis, but the brand reckons there’s a small gap between the Baleno hatchback and the entry-level Grand Vitara.
Suzuki is pitching its newcomer into hotly-contested territory; the Fronx goes up against models such as the Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, Nissan Magnite and Renault Kiger (they’re all around the R300k-R400k mark). You should also consider something like the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro, which costs about R310 000.
What’s on offer?
There are 4 derivatives in the Fronx lineup, each of which is powered by a naturally-aspirated 1.5-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine – it’s a familiar powerplant that does duty in a number of the Japanese brand’s products. In this application, it develops 77 kW and 138 Nm of torque; customers can choose between 5-speed manual and 4-speed automatic derivatives and there are two trim levels available: GL and GLX.
The GL grade covers the basics nicely with a smartphone-compatible infotainment screen, a reverse-view camera and climate control, but if you have the additional cash to splash on the higher-spec GLX, then go for it… You’ll get a raft of additional comfort-, convenience-, as well as safety features.
Our test route took us deep into the Western Cape’s Swartland region and we drove the Fronx through quaint towns such as Wolseley, Tulbagh and Riebeek Kasteel. The journey incorporated a great blend of open-road, freeway and urban driving so that we could give the model a thorough first assessment.
While outputs of 77 kW and 138 Nm aren’t significant, the Fronx has the advantage of a relatively low kerb weight (of 1 015 kg). With not much mass to propel, there’s no need for a punchy motor, so the Fronx doesn’t feel short of overtaking urge. The K15B engine also has a free-revving nature and doesn’t mind being “spun” through the range, especially if you’re overtaking trucks on the open road.
Our test unit was an entry-level, manual-equipped 1.5 GL and we were impressed with its levels of ride refinement, noise-, vibration and harshness suppression in the cabin, as well as eager performance. The 5-speed manual gearbox is a great example of why self-shifting should never go completely extinct; its shift action is wonderfully light and precise. Perhaps the model would benefit from having a 6th gear to keep the revs down – and improve fuel consumption – while cruising on a freeway or open road.
Speaking of which, Suzuki says the 5-speed manual Fronx has an average fuel consumption figure of 5.5 L/100 km and, despite our enthusiastic driving on the route, the test unit indicated a stable 6.1 L/100 km and we’d bet that most customers would be able to achieve under 6.0 L/100 km without too much effort.
As far as ride quality is concerned, the Fronx’s suspension is pliant – it feels planted on the road – and those 195/60 R16 tyres help to soak up road imperfections. Given the Fronx’s higher centre of gravity, it exhibits a degree of body roll when you corner enthusiastically, but it’s not a dealbreaker at this price point. The steering is light and easy to use, plus you get a fair degree of feedback and engagement.
Given its generous ground clearance (170 mm) and chunkier tyres, we reckon the Fronx should be a great gravel travel companion; we look forward to test-driving it on some farm roads in the near future!
How much does the Suzuki Fronx cost in South Africa?
The Suzuki Fronx is sold with a 5-year/200 000 km warranty and a 4-year/60 000 km service plan as standard.
Suzuki Fronx 1.5 GL 5MT
R279 900
Suzuki Fronx 1.5 GL 4AT
R299 900
Suzuki Fronx 1.5 GLX 5MT
R315 900
Suzuki Fronx 1.5 GLX 4AT
R335 900
Summary
What makes the Fronx stand out? The dilemma is that Suzuki offers prospective small crossover buyers a plethora of options. If you’re shopping between R250 000 and R400 000, there are no fewer than 5 commendable models that perform (just about) the same function – there’s a lot of overlap. And, if you don’t need the extra ground clearance and faux off-roader look, you may as well stick with the Baleno.
The model’s name may be quirky – it does not roll off the tongue as easily as Suzuki’s other offerings, such as the Swift and Baleno – but there’s no denying this is another enticing good-value vehicle. With well-thought-out trim levels and an aggressive pricing strategy, there is much to like about the Fronx. Yet again, Suzuki has introduced a great-value offering for SA consumers… and there’s more to come.
Fuel Price increase coming in September 2023
The forecast fuel price data suggest we could be in for a horrific increase in the price of all grades of fuels in September 2023.
The mid-month fuel price data has been released by the Central Energy Fund and it does not look good. Over the first half of the month, the Rand has tumbled against the dollar from below R18 to the Dollar to closer to R19 to the Dollar. This adversely affects our buying power of oil, which has also been on the rise since the beginning of the month.
The price of Brent Crude oil has steadily risen from $76 a barrel to $84 a barrel as of 16 August 2023. These 2 factors have combined for what could turn out to be some of the biggest price increases ever seen come the end of the month.
For now, at the halfway point in the month, petrol would rise by R1.41 per litre for 93 Octane and by R1.45 per litre for 95 Octane. The increase in diesel would be more significant as it stands. 500ppm diesel would increase by R2.60 per litre while 50ppm diesel would rise by R2.61 per litre.
Unless there is a significant improvement in the price of oil and the Rand/Dollar exchange rate in the next few weeks, we are in for some pain at the pumps come September.
Predicted Fuel Prices for September 2023
Fuel Type
Aug ’23 Inland
Aug ’23 Coast
Sept ’23 Inland*
Sept ’23 Coast*
Petrol Unleaded 93
R22.43
R21.71
R23.84
R23.12
Petrol Unleaded 95
R22.83
R22.11
R24.28
R23.56
Diesel 0.05%
R20.21
R19.48
R22.81
R22.08
Diesel 0.005%
R20.52
R19.81
R23.13
R22.42
*September figures are forecast figures and not official.
Mahindra Global Pik Up set to take on Ranger & Hilux
The new Mahindra Global Pik Up bakkie has been showcased in Cape Town, which signals that the Indian brand intends to introduce a lifestyle-oriented bakkie soon.
According to the local sales figures produced by Naamsa, Mahindra was the fastest-growing brand in SA in 2022. A lot of that growth came in the bakkie segment, where its locally-assembled Pik Up showed a massive increase in the entry-level double cab segment with the Karoo variant. The brand sees a lot of potential in this market and now has plans to take on the lifestyle brand with its yet-to-be-named bakkie.
The new bakkie currently goes by the name Global Pik Up, but Mahindra is still looking for a local name for it when it comes to production. It is also looking for suggestions if anyone feels up to naming a new Mahindra bakkie.
The New Global Pik Up looks a much more modern design than we have seen from Mahindra.
The underpinnings of the Global Pik Up are based on a new-generation ladder frame, but by the time it comes to market, the chassis is likely to be entirely different to the one that currently does duty in the local Pik Up Karoo. For a start, it will have a longer wheelbase and feature much stiffer steel.
Veejay Nakra, the president of the automotive sector at Mahindra, said: “The new Global Pik Up marks a significant step in Mahindra’s Go-Global Strategy. This robust and Tough vehicle, engineered with cutting-edge Technology, is not only Versatile and Capable but also meets high standards of Safety.
“Our move with the Global Pik Up is poised to not only reinforce our presence in existing markets but also pave the way to new frontiers. It stands as an embodiment of what we aim to offer, an invitation to Live Unlimited, Explore Boundlessly, and Embrace Freedom,” he added.
There is no set date yet for when we are likely to see this new lifestyle bakkie in production, but a rough estimate would be towards the end of 2024 or in 2025. Mahindra did state that the new Global Pik Up would use the current 2.2-litre turbodiesel M-Hawk engine currently available in the local Pik Up.
That engine is capable of 129 kW and 400 Nm of torque. While the brand clearly wants to move the new bakkie into the lifestyle segment, it has no plans to take on the models right at the top of the range such as the Ford Ranger V6 or the Toyota Hilux 2.8 GD-6 Legend. It will target the lower end or middle of this vital segment to pilfer sales from models such as the GWM P-Series or 2.0-litre Ford Ranger variants.
The interior of the Global Pik Up appears to be the least modern part of the new design.
The new Global Pik Up will feature some very modern tech, with Mahindra looking to incorporate level 2 semi-autonomous features into the production model. Those are features such as adaptive cruise control, automatic parking, collision-avoiding braking, as well as lane departure- and lane centring tech.
The interior looks to incorporate modern features with a large touchscreen in the centre and an analogue instrument cluster; while this may not sound groundbreaking, it should be a highly capable system when launched. You can also expect the quality of the audio to be excellent – Mahindra has teamed up with vehicle audio specialists Harmon to build a bespoke Harmon/Kardon sound system for the Pik Up.
For now, the Mahindra Global Pik Up is just a concept, but the vehicle depicted in these images is said to be extremely close to what the final production car will look like, minus a few of the flashy add-ons, such as the dual spare wheels in the load bay, for example.
Mahindra has also said that it would certainly be looking at leveraging its production capabilities in KwaZulu-Natal to possibly assemble or produce the new model, although that decision will only be made once the model (still under development) is closer to going into production. Look out for further updates!
How Many Hybrids and EVs Were Sold in SA in H1 2023?
How many hybrids and EVs were registered in South Africa in the 1st half of 2023? Well, sales were up 47.1%, according to official figures from Naamsa…
Are so-called “new-energy vehicles” becoming more popular in South Africa? Well, Naamsa has released official sales figures for electric vehicles (EVs), traditional hybrids and plug-in hybrids covering the 1st half of the year. And it seems these types of powertrains are indeed gaining some sort of traction.
According to the representative body, new-energy vehicle (NEV) sales – that is, battery-powered vehicles, traditional hybrids and plug-in hybrids, but seemingly not mild hybrids – for the opening half of 2023 increased by 47.1% year on year to 3 146 units. For the record, that figure represented 1.18% of the industry total of 265 824 units at the year’s halfway point.
Haval Motors SA launched the hybrid Jolion at the start of 2023.
Predictably, traditional hybrids made up the bulk of the NEV figure, with 2 561 units registered locally from the start of January to the end of June 2023. Key local players in this segment include dual-powered versions of Toyota’s Corolla hatch and sedan, the Corolla Cross and the RAV4, plus various Lexus models as well as the Honda Fit and Haval’s H6 and Jolion hybrids.
Meanwhile, fully electric vehicles accounted for 502 units in H1 2023, matching the local EV sales tally for the whole of 2022. That figure is expected to grow further as more affordable battery-powered vehicles hit the local market in the coming months. For instance, though the BYD Atto 3 is now available locally, fully electric contenders such as the Volvo EX30 and GWM Ora are technically still in the pre-order phase.
Local order books for the fully electric Volvo C40 Recharge opened in February 2023.
Finally, just 83 units of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) were sold in Mzansi in the 1st half of 2023. Examples of such vehicles include the T8 versions of Volvo’s XC60 and XC90, along with BMW’s refreshed X5 xDrive50e plus the P300e and P400e derivatives in Jaguar Land Rover’s line-up.
As a reminder, in 2022, overall NEV sales reflected a whopping year-on-year increase of 431.7% from (an admittedly low base of) 896 units in 2021. Note this tally comprised just 0.88% of SA’s total new-vehicle sales for the year.
The refreshed BMW X5 is available locally in PHEV guise, now badged as the xDrive50e.
Naamsa says a “timely” policy framework to “support investment decisions for NEV manufacturing” and “safeguard export volumes” into the European market is “imperative for the domestic automotive industry’s inevitable transition to eco-friendly vehicles”.
“Driving a meaningful NEV transition in South Africa will require a careful balance between incentivising a sustained shift in domestic market demand to NEVs; establishing an appropriately aligned, renewable energy-based charging infrastructure; and supporting a shift in South African vehicle production, away from ICE vehicles to a mix of hybrid electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles and battery electric vehicles,” said Naamsa.
Billed as a “true driver’s car first and foremost” and “no longer the ‘softer’ option (compared with the coupe)”, the Aston Martin DB12 Volante is a head-turning – but harder-edged – open-top super tourer that can catapult from 0 to 100 kph in 3.7 sec.
Unsurprisingly, the newly unveiled DB12 Volante, which makes its global debut at Monterey Car Week in California this week, is just as beautifully sculpted as its coupe sibling – or, arguably, better looking still. The key difference, of course, is the Volante’s electrically-operated (8-layer) “K-fold” fabric roof – so named due to the 2-stage folding procedure engineered to achieve an admirable 260-mm stack height.
When raised, the newcomer’s sinuous roofline maintains the recently revealed DB12 Coupe’s sleek profile, but once lowered (and concealed beneath the hard tonneau), the DB12 Volante’s uninterrupted beltline culminates and, let us quote the Gaydon-based manufacturer verbatim: “a lithe and muscular tail that puts the lumpen efforts of package-compromised rivals to shame”. Well, there you have it!
Said to have been developed in parallel with its coupe sibling, the new DB12 Volante shares the tin-top’s acclaimed bonded aluminium structure. Aston Martin notably fine-tuned the specification of all elements of the Volante’s underbody, such as stiffening the suspension mounts (by 140% at the front, it claims), which facilitated the implementation of a non-isolated steering column, as well as suitable steering and damper tuning to deliver “precise on and off-centre steering” feel.
And, thanks to changes to underbody components, including the fitment of an engine cross brace, DB12 Volante’s global torsional stiffness is said to be 3.7% better than that of its predecessor.
Claimed to deliver “best-in-class potency”, the DB12 Volante’s Mercedes-AMG-derived 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 powerplant produces 500 kW at 6 000 rpm and 800 Nm of torque between 2 750 and 6 000 rpm; it features modified cam profiles, optimised compression ratios, larger turbos, and increased cooling to achieve an increase in output of 34% compared with that of its V12-engined predecessor.
Apart from its 3.7-sec zero to 100 kph time, the DB12 Volante is said to have a top speed of 325 kph.
Power is fed to the newcomer’s 21-inch forged alloy rear wheels (fitted with Michelin Pilot S 5 tyres as standard) through a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission with a range of shift programmes that complement each of 5 drive modes (including a quartet of ESC settings). Like its coupe sibling, the DB12 Volante also uses a shortened final drive ratio and an electronic rear differential (E-Diff).
Other highlights of the package include new intelligent adaptive dampers, which “have a 500% increase in bandwidth of force distribution compared to previous-gen hardware”. Compared with DB12 Coupe, the Volante features revisions to the rear spring rate and a dedicated damper tune.
Stopping power is provided by 400-mm brake discs at the front, with 360-mm discs at the rear, while a fade-resistant carbon ceramic brake system, which is said to save 27 kg in unsprung mass, is optional.
In terms of its interior execution, what distinguishes the DB12 Volante’s cabin from that of its coupe counterpart? Wood veneer (or carbon fibre) panels on the seatbacks, matched with the door trim inlays.
The aforementioned fabric roof (available in four colours) takes 14 seconds to open and 16 seconds to close and can be used at speeds of up to 50 kph. For added convenience, the roof mechanism can be operated via the remote key, provided the user is standing within a 2-metre radius of the car.
The new infotainment setup is a multi-screen system with online connectivity and 10.25-inch Pure Black touchscreen technology, augmented with capacitive single and multi-finger gesture control. Buttons are retained for the mechanical operations of gear selection, drive selection, heating and ventilation, plus there are override switches for chassis, ESP and exhaust, lane-assist and park distance control settings.
In the event that the twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8’s Basso profondo exhaust note gets too monotonous (hey, it’s highly unlikely – but not impossible), the DB12 Volante comes standard with a Bowers & Wilkins 390W 11-speaker audio system with surround-sound mode and QuantumLogic sound processing.
For true audiophiles, Aston Martin has developed an optional 15-speaker, double amplified 1 170W surround sound system in conjunction with Bowers & Wilkins. It features high-performance loudspeakers, such as Aluminium Double Dome tweeters and Continuum midrange speakers, supplemented by dedicated 3D headline speakers and a potent subwoofer.
When will the DB12 Volante be available in SA?
Production of DB12 Volante will commence soon, with the first deliveries scheduled to begin during Q4 2023. According to John Wittle – the brand and sales manager at Aston Martin Johannesburg and Cape Town – the DB12 Volante will arrive in Mzansi in May 2024. Its price will be revealed closer to that date.
Mazda Southern Africa has quietly trimmed its Mazda3 range to half its previous size, with the cut including the discontinuation of the entry-level grade…
The family hatchback category – already under serious pressure in South Africa – has just shrunk a little more. Yes, Mazda Southern Africa has quietly discontinued half of the derivatives in its Mazda3 range, reducing the line-up to just 3 variants but adding a handful of features.
The entry-level Active grade – which had been priced from R429 300 – is no more, while the high-spec Individual trim level (previously pegged at R502 600 in manual form and R517 700 in automatic guise) has also been culled.
That means the Mazda3 hatch range now comprises the 1.5 Dynamic grade (still offered with a choice of transmissions) and the flagship 2.0 Astina (available exclusively in self-shifting form). Each of these 3 derivatives has also received a small price increase, according to Mazda SA’s latest price list (see full pricing at the bottom of this page).
The local Mazda3 range now comprises just 3 derivatives.
Mazda SA says the vehicle has been “facelifted”, though there are no discernible exterior styling changes, other than the addition of a new Ceramic White paint colour. Inside, however, the hatchback gains Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay, USB Type-C connectivity and wireless charging.
The 4th-generation Mazda3 launched in South Africa in mid-2019, with as many as 12 variants (6 hatchbacks and 6 sedans) on offer. By the 2nd half of 2021, the slow-selling sedan body style had been removed from the local market.
As a reminder, the Mazda3’s naturally aspirated 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine delivers 88 kW and 153 Nm to the front axle via either a 6-speed manual gearbox or an automatic transmission with the same number of cogs. The range-topping Astina’s likewise atmospheric 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol motor makes 121 kW and 213 Nm.
The Mazda3 sedan was discontinued locally in the 2nd half of 2021.
Over the opening 7 months of 2023, Mazda SA registered 156 examples of the Mazda3 hatchback, translating to a monthly average of just 22 units. The best month thus far was April 2023, with 26 registrations.
Mitsubishi has re-introduced the Triton Athlete nameplate to South Africa. Here’s pricing and initial details on this latest double-cab bakkie derivative…
Though an all-new Mitsubishi Triton was recently revealed, the Japanese firm’s local division has introduced a special iteration of the outgoing bakkie. Yes, as we reported back in July, the Triton Athlete nameplate has made its return to South Africa.
The latest version of the Athlete is based on the Triton 2.4DI-D 4×4 6AT derivative, inheriting an unchanged version of that model’s powertrain. That means the 2.4-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine offers 133 kW and 430 Nm to all 4 wheels via a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Just as we reported, the Triton Athlete is priced at R749 990, which represents a R20 000 premium over the model on which it’s based. In addition, that sees the Triton Athlete positioned below the likewise 4×4 versions of the Heritage (R769 990) and Xtreme (R798 990).
So, what sets the Athlete apart? Well, there are red touches to the front-bumper lower garnish, side steps and rear-bumper step, along with a decal kit “inspired by the world of motorsport” and including a bonnet decal, tailgate strip and side stripes featuring the number “01”. Moreover, the LED headlamps gain dark accents and matching daylight running lamps, while the Athlete rides on model-specific black 18-inch alloys.
Inside, you’ll find leather trim for the steering wheel, handbrake gaiter and floor console, each also featuring black-and-red stitching. The model-specific leather-trimmed seats and door trim have also been treated to stitching in this crimson hue.
Back in March 2018, Mitsubishi Motors SA first introduced the Athlete badge to the local market, with that special (pre-facelift) version of the Triton featuring a black-and-orange colour scheme that extended from the exterior into the cabin. It was also distinguished by extra airbags and an improved braked towing capacity.
The new Triton was revealed in Thailand – the country from which Mitsubishi Motors SA sources its Triton units – towards the end of July 2023. The automaker says the next-generation version is built on a “newly developed ladder frame chassis” and draw its urge from a “clean diesel engine” (offering more power in the high-output twin-turbo version).
The outgoing Triton has been somewhat under-appreciated by South African bakkie buyers, with just 380 units (or an average of around 63 units a month) sold locally in the first half of 2023. That saw the Triton miss out on a spot on the list of South Africa’s 10 best-selling bakkies in H1 2023.
How much does the Mitsubishi Triton Athlete cost in SA?
Mitsubishi Triton 2.4DI-D DC Athlete 4×4 6AT – R749 990
The price above includes a 3-year/100 000 km warranty and a 5-year/90 000 km service plan (with intervals of 10 000 km).
Thinking about buying a used example of the recently discontinued 2nd-gen Renault Sandero? Let’s take a closer look at the derivatives that were sold in South Africa, before examining the strengths and weaknesses of the French budget car…
While the original B90-series Renault Sandero was built in South Africa (at alliance partner Nissan’s factory in Rosslyn), the 2nd-generation version was imported from Romania. This big-on-space budget car contender was marketed under the Dacia brand in many countries, but here in Mzansi, it again wore the Renault badge; an Expression-spec example famously beat the Suzuki Swift 1.2 GL and Volkswagen Take Up! to win the Budget Car category of the inaugural Cars.co.za Consumer Awards (2015/16).
The Sandero II was on the local market for 8 years.
Although production of the B52-generation Sandero – which was based on a platform that traced its roots all the way back to the Clio II – technically ended in 2020, this model soldiered on in South Africa until local stock ran dry in the opening quarter of 2022. Interestingly, the 3rd-generation model didn’t ever make it to our market, with the Indian-built Kiger tasked with filling the gap in Renault’s line-up.
For the record, the 2nd-gen Sandero scored 4 stars in its 2013 Euro NCAP crash test, while the entry-level version of the SA-spec model had to settle for 3 stars for adult-occupant safety (and 4 for child-occupant safety) when it was evaluated by Global NCAP in 2017. The latter assessment – which centred on a 64-kph frontal crash test – crucially included a “stable” rating for the body shell.
Renault Sandero model line-up in South Africa
The Renault-badged version arrived in SA around a year and a half after the Dacia model debuted.
The Sandero II made its global debut – in Dacia trim, naturally – at the 2012 Paris Motor Show, the same event at which the covers were whipped off the Renault Clio IV. Like its supermini cousin, the B52-gen Sandero was offered with the Boulogne-Billancourt-based firm’s then-new 0.9-litre, 3-cylinder turbopetrol engine.
Sporting the Renault badge, the 2nd-gen Sandero arrived in South Africa in March 2014, armed with what the local distributor described as an “unparalleled value proposition”. At launch, just a pair of derivatives was available, each powered by the aforementioned downsized turbopetrol motor, which drove the front wheels through a 5-speed manual gearbox:
Sandero Expression (66 kW/135 Nm)
Sandero Dynamique (66 kW/135 Nm)
Just a couple of months later, Renault SA expanded the range by introducing the Sandero Stepway, which was positioned just above the Dynamique hatch. The Stepway employed the same 898 cm3 unit, but gained SUV-inspired cues such as a raised ride height (29 mm more ground clearance at 193 mm), silver-painted skid plates (front and rear), black wheel-arch trim and functional roof rails.
Other distinguishing features included 16-inch wheels (an inch larger than those of other derivatives) and the option of specifying the model-specific Azurite Blue paint colour.
The Sandero Stepway’s SUV-inspired styling proved a hit with local buyers.
In March 2017, the facelifted Sandero II, sporting revised frontal styling (including a revised lighting signature) and carefully considered cabin updates, made local landfall. The centre console and air vents were redesigned (and Dynamique derivatives gained a 7-inch touchscreen), while new seat upholstery was rolled out and the electric window switches relocated from the centre console to the door panels.
Similarly, the old stalk-operated horn was ditched in favour of a conventional tiller-mounted item, while the indicators scored a handy 1-touch lane-change function. At this point, Renault South Africa (Renault SA) also saw fit to rejig the range, retaining the base Expression hatchback, but opting to offer the popular Stepway configuration in both Expression and Dynamique form.
Note the new grille employed by the facelifted Stepway.
However, the latter flagship derivative fell away in May 2018, when it was superseded by the Stepway Plus, which added features such as a reverse-view camera, bi-tone 16-inch wheels and 2 fresh body colours (Dune Beige and Cosmos Blue). A year later, the touchscreen infotainment system in the Stepway Plus was upgraded to include (wired) Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
The final update for the B52-series Sandero line-up came in August 2020, when the Stepway Techroad slotted in at the summit of the range, effectively succeeding the Plus-badged variant. The Techroad was set apart by subtle cues such as gloss-black side-mirror caps, inconspicuous decals on its B-pillars and blue centre caps for the wheels (a hue repeated in the cabin on sections of the seats and the air vents).
What are the advantages of a Renault Sandero?
The Sandero offered plenty of packing space for the price.
Space and practicality: Like the majority of its rivals, the 2nd-gen Sandero – which measured 4 059 mm from nose to tail (or 4 072 mm in Stepway guise) and featured a 2 589 mm wheelbase – “offered B-segment space at an A-segment price”, so to speak. The front quarters were particularly spacious, while tall rear-sited passengers enjoyed decent headroom and largely sufficient legroom. Luggage capacity came in at a handy 292 litres (a figure Renault claimed was “best in class”) and the rear bench could fold down in a 60:40 split for increased load-lugging ability.
Segment-leading safety kit: At launch in 2014, the Sandero came fitted as standard with ABS (with EBD and EBA), electronic stability control and hill-start assist, with the latter 2 features being particularly unusual in the budget-car segment at the time. ISOfix child-seat anchors, a 3-point seatbelt for the centrally positioned rear passenger and dual airbags were also standard fare, with the Dynamique and (pre-facelift) Stepway derivatives adding front side airbags and front seatbelt reminders. Note, however, that all derivatives made do with drum brakes at the rear.
A look at the 2017 Stepway Dynamique’s cabin, seen here with optional leather seats.
Generous specification levels: Though the Expression grade lacked a handful of convenience features, the Sandero II was largely well-specified.
The Dynamique trim level (along with the Stepway Plus and Techroad tiers) boasted big-car items that were seldom seen in the segment at the time, including front fog lamps, cruise control (with a speed limiter), rear parking sensors, driver’s seat height adjustment, electric windows all round and leather trim for the steering wheel, along with the later-added touchscreen infotainment system.
What are the disadvantages of a Renault Sandero?
The tiny turbocharged engine felt decidedly flat at low revs.
Lack of low-down grunt: The Sandero II was the first in its segment to turn to forced induction and the results certainly looked encouraging on paper. But, despite Renault taking every opportunity to refer to the little engine as “F1 inspired”, it lacked a degree of tractability in practice (which was somewhat unexpected considering the presence of a turbocharger).
With peak torque available from 2 500 rpm, the motor felt a little sluggish at lower revs (even when Eco mode was not engaged), goading the driver to be more generous with throttle inputs. Of course, such an approach made achieving the claimed combined fuel economy figure of 5.2 L/100 km (or 5.4 in the case of the Stepway) even less likely, while detracting from in-cabin refinement levels. That said, those living upcountry may appreciate the benefits of a turbo in the thinner air (even if the power delivery is peaky).
As with the same engine in the Clio IV, timing-chain issues are not uncommon.
Timing-chain failures: Though intriguingly more common on the Clio IV than the Sandero II, the 0.9-litre 3-cylinder engine has been known to suffer from worn timing chains or even outright timing-chain failures, despite Renault describing this component as boasting “lifetime durability” and requiring “zero maintenance”. If the vehicle hasn’t had its oil changed regularly, sludge can build up, which impacts oil pressure. Since the chain tensioner is controlled by this pressure, problems then quickly arise. So, when test driving, listen out for rattling timing chains and insist on evidence of regular servicing.
Miscellaneous potential issues: A far less common – but still reported – potential reliability problem involved a failing fuel-sensor unit, while we’ve also been told of a tendency for the plastic thermostat housing to warp over time, ultimately leading to a coolant leak (again, some Clio IV units also suffered with this problem). In addition, we’ve heard of numerous local instances of starter-motor failures…
How much is a used Renault Sandero in South Africa?
The popular Stepway, seen here in Techroad form.
Throughout the Sandero’s tenure in our market, Renault SA included a 5-year/150 000 km warranty and a 2-year/30 000 km service plan (with intervals of 15 000 km) as standard. Considering this relatively short service arrangement, pay very close attention to the maintenance history of a car that you’re thinking of buying – make sure the vehicle has been serviced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Of the used 2nd-gen Renault Sandero listings on Cars.co.za at the time of writing, a whopping 75% took the form of Stepway derivatives. Though all model years were represented, the most common were 2021 (19%) and 2019 (17%). White accounted for 38% of listed vehicles, followed by blue (20%) and silver (11%). Meanwhile, mileages varied from just 7 400 km (on a 2022 Stepway Expression) to 211 000 km (on a 2016 Expression hatchback).
Standard hatch derivatives are few and far between on the used market.
Below R125 000: As you might have guessed, most of the vehicles in this price range were early model-year examples, many with in excess of 150 000 km on their respective odometers. Around a 3rd of listings here fell below the R100 000 mark, while about half were Stepway derivatives.
From R125 000 to R150 000: Most of the units between these pricing bookends were noticeably tidier and listed with lower mileages. Interestingly, we found very few standard hatchbacks here.
From R150 000 to R200 000: At the time of writing, this was easily the most densely populated pricing bracket, with nearly half of all stock listed here. The model-year distribution was skewed heavily towards 2019, 2020 and 2021, while non-Stepway derivatives were even more scarce.
R200 000 and up: Options were far more limited above the R200 000 point, where only models registered from 2020 to 2022 were listed. All were Stepway derivatives (most being Techroad models), while mileage was capped at 60 000 km. The priciest Sandero II we could dig up was a 2021 Stepway with 18 000 km on its clock, going for R239 000.
Which Renault Sandero should I buy?
This is the Sandero Stepway in Plus guise.
Since there was just a single powertrain on offer throughout the SA-spec Sandero’s lifecycle (our market didn’t receive the 1.5-litre turbodiesel available in Europe nor the 2.0-litre Sandero RS warm hatch sold in South America), selecting the best derivative comes down to 2 factors: body style and trim level.
Since there aren’t all that many examples of the standard hatchback on the used market (despite being slightly more fuel efficient), most buyers will likely focus on the popular Stepway variants.
So, which trim level is best? Well, it’s worth noting that the Expression grade made do with just 2 airbags and lost out on items such as cruise control, an on-board computer, rear electric windows, electrically adjustable side mirrors and the touchscreen infotainment system added at the facelift, while even air-conditioning was optional on the Expression hatch at launch (though later added as standard).
Note the more basic radio system in this pre-facelift Sandero II.
Therefore, we’d recommend concentrating on the Dynamique, Plus and Techroad derivatives. Which of the trio you opt for will likely be determined by your budget, though we’d suggest buying as late a model year as your wallet allows.
A note on wheels: the Expression hatchback came with 15-inch steelies (clad with plastic covers) and the Dynamique hatch was listed as having 15-inch alloys. The original Stepway, meanwhile, debuted 16-inch “Flex” wheels, which were inherited by all Stepway derivatives that followed (though in 2-tone form in the case of the Plus and Techroad). For the record, Renault – or rather Dacia – created a “Flex” wheel (also known as a “structured steel wheel”) by bolting a faux-metallic plastic cover to a specially formed steel wheel, resulting in what looked just like a conventional alloy (even upon close inspection).
Is the Renault Sandero a good used buy?
High-spec Sandero models can offer strong value on the used market.
Rivals to the 2nd-gen Renault Sandero included the Toyota Etios hatch, Volkswagen Polo Vivo, B562-gen Ford Figo hatch and AZG-series Suzuki Swift, with the Stepway competing against the likes of the Etios Cross, Polo Vivo Maxx and Figo Freestyle (and perhaps even the smaller Suzuki Ignis and VW Cross Up!).
So, does the Renault Sandero represent a compelling 2nd-hand buy? Well, as was the case when it was available new, (fairly priced) used examples offer oodles of value, particularly in high-spec guise. Though the powertrain may not be to everyone’s taste, the B52-series (2nd-gen) Sandero’s mix of practicality, standard equipment and safety kit means it continues to offer strong value on the used market today.
