This monster BMW Z4 is powered by a Nascar-sourced V8 and took part in the Knysna Simola Hillclimb. Here’s a closer look at the unique build.
Engine swaps don’t come any wilder than this BMW Z4 with a Nascar V8 under the bonnet. What started off as a fanciful project by Jimmy from G&H Transport turned into one of the crazier builds he’s ever created.
The Nascar V8 uses a sequential gearbox to put the power to the wheels, but it hasn’t been a simple path to get the conversion to work. Watch as they develop the car in order to make it ready for South Africa’s premier motorsport event, the Knysna Simola Hillclimb.
Armoured Mercedes-Benz V-Class Now Available in SA
The Three-pointed Star has collaborated with local armouring specialists SVI to create a Mercedes-Benz V-Class with B4-level armouring, which is now available to order.
The demand for armoured (“bulletproofed’) vehicles has increased dramatically over the years in South Africa and SVI Engineering, based in Gauteng, has a reputation for producing highly reinforced products.
Now, SVI and Mercedes-Benz have unveiled an armoured V-Class, which is optimised for a high level of driver and passenger protection in the event of an armed attack. The armoured luxury people-mover’s specialised packaging – rated at B4 (handgun grade) – was developed locally and although the ‘Benz looks stock standard, eagle-eyed observers may notice the bus’ 21-mm-ticker ballistic glass windows.
The windows aren’t the only parts of the ‘Benz that are armoured (although note that the driver’s window can only open partially) – the SVI package features extensive use of Kevlar and steel plates in the panels and doors. You can further enhance the protection with additional B4 roof armour and B4 floor armour.
The vehicle shown here is a V300d derivative, which is powered by a 174 kW500 Nm 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine mated with a 9-speed automatic transmission. SVI is capable of armouring all derivatives of the V-Class and the best part of the process is that the vehicle retains its 5-year/100 000 km PremiumDrive plan, while SVI offers an additional 2-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty on the armouring.
If you currently own a V-Class, you can upgrade your vehicle to this level of armouring retroactively. Suffice it to say, the entire armouring process is comprehensive and takes 3 months to complete. The armouring adds around 400 kg to the overall mass of the vehicle. New V-Class customers will be able to order the armoured package via the dealership network towards the end of the 3rd quarter of 2023.
Does this make a difference to the vehicle’s driving experience? Well, yes, but not as much as you might expect. We briefly drove the armoured Mercedes-Benz V-Class while there were 5 passengers on board and, while one is well aware of the fact that the reinforced luxury people-mover is heavier than its non-armoured siblings, with 500 Nm of torque available, the ‘Benz still delivers plenty of overtaking grunt. SVI did not need to make any modifications to the ‘Benz’s suspension or braking system for the upgrade.
“Over the past few years, we’ve noticed an uptick in demand for armoured luxury people movers. There’s no better example of this genre of vehicle than the V-Class, so we were delighted to partner with Mercedes-Benz Vans SA to make this OEM-backed conversion a reality,” said Jaco de Kock, Chief Executive Officer of the SVI Group of Companies.
Price? The armoured conversion of the Mercedes-Benz V-Class costs R960 750, excluding VAT.
It’s not our first taste of SVI’s handiwork as Ciro de Siena drove the armoured Max 9.
Considering a 3rd-generation Mercedes-Benz A-Class? Here’s everything you need to know about the W176 iteration of the Three-pointed Star’s premium hatchback, from its strengths and weakness to how much you can expect to pay on the used market…
While the first 2 Mercedes-Benz A-Class models – codenamed the W168 and W169, respectively – were more “baby MPV” than C-segment hatchback, the 3rd-generation version marked a fresh approach for the Sindelfingen-based brand’s entry-level nameplate. Designed to appeal to younger buyers, the W176 A-Class was pitched directly against the likes of the Audi A3 Sportback and BMW 1 Series hatchback.
Even though the earlier generations were rather successful (in terms of sales figures they notched up across the globe), the shift in strategy – ditching a top-heavy minivan shape in favour of a comparatively low-slung, stretched hatchback design – certainly paid dividends for the Stuttgart-based automaker, with the W176 A-Class achieving its goal of attracting scores of new young buyers to the brand.
The W176 represented a significant departure from its predecessors.
In fact, the W176 quickly became a best-seller for ‘Benz by taking advantage of what was then a fast-growing corner of the market. It ultimately proved a significant driver of not just volume, but also change, at Mercedes-Benz, setting the groundwork for what would become a broad family of compact models.
Riding on the German firm’s then-new MFA platform, the 3rd-generation A-Class also saw the introduction of a high-performance variant in the form of the A45 AMG 4Matic – a potent all-wheel-drive hot hatch that unlocked further new markets for the brand’s Affalterbach-based performance division.
Mercedes-Benz A-Class W176 model line-up
The W176 was revealed in A250 guise in Geneva.
Around a year after the covers were whipped off the Concept A-Class in New York, Mercedes-Benz revealed the W176-generation production model at the Geneva International Motor Show in March 2012.
The 5-door newcomer hit the market in South Africa in April 2013 and was available in a trio of grades (Urban, Style and AMG Sport) and optional design packages (Night, Exclusive and AMG Exclusive).
At launch, the line-up comprised 5 derivatives. Most of these new engines wore the “BlueEfficiency” badge and were mated with either a 6-speed manual gearbox or a 7-speed dual-clutch cog-swapper:
A180: 1.6-litre turbopetrol with 90 kW/200 Nm
A200: 1.6-litre turbopetrol with 115 kW/250 Nm
A180 CDI: 1.5-litre turbodiesel with 80 kW/260 Nm
A220 CDI: 2.1-litre turbodiesel with 125 kW/350 Nm
A250 Sport: 2.0-litre turbopetrol with 155 kW/350 Nm
The A45 AMG was Affalterbach’s first real attempt at building a hot hatch.
By August 2013, the raucous A45 AMG had slotted in at the very summit of the local A-Class range, powered by what was then the most powerful production 4-cylinder engine in the world. At that point, the turbocharged 2.0-litre unit sent a considerable 265 kW and 450 Nm to all 4 corners (via a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission), resulting in a claimed 0-100 kph time of just 4.6 seconds.
In February 2016, the facelifted A-Class arrived in South Africa, replete with freshened-up styling (inside and out), the option of adaptive damping, new driver-assistance technology and updates to the engine line-up and powertrain nomenclature. For instance, the A180- and A180 CDI were replaced by the A200d and A220d, with 2.1-litre turbodiesels that produced 100 kW/300 Nm and 130 kW/350 Nm, respectively.
The facelifted A-Class made local landfall in early 2016.
While the A200 powertrain continued unaltered, the A250 Sport – a rival for the Volkswagen Golf GTI of the era – scored an extra 5 kW, for a peak output of 160 kW.
In addition, the A45 AMG was renamed the Mercedes-AMG A45, with its M133 engine’s maximum outputs rising further still to 280 kW and 475 Nm. As a result, the apex A-Class managed to slice a full 4-tenths off its sprint time, which plummeted to a claimed 4.2 seconds.
The W177-generation A-Class was launched in South Africa in August 2018, bringing the W176’s time on the local market to an end. At that point, the then-CEO of Mercedes-Benz SA suggested the brand had become “noticeably more youthful since the introduction of the 3rd-generation compact models”.
What are the advantages of a Mercedes-Benz A-Class?
A look at the pre-facelift W176 model’s cabin.
Lower barrier to ‘Benz ownership: Though the earlier, frumpier generations of A-Class certainly fulfilled an entry-level function, the W176 provided a far more alluring option for young buyers who aspired to own a Mercedes-Benz. Indeed, the base price for this premium hatchback at launch (in 2013) came in at R275 000, around what you would’ve paid for a mid-spec VW Golf at the time. Today, the W176 plays the same sort of role in the used market.
Big-car technology in a compact body: When the W176 hit the local market, Mercedes-Benz stated that “safety is not a question of price”, fitting all derivatives with a radar-based collision warning system featuring adaptive brake assist, for instance. In effect, the so-called “democratisation of safety” encompassed an array of driver-assistance features inherited from ‘Benz’s larger model series.
This is the facelifted A45’s interior.
Other tech highlights included simple iPhone integration and internet access, providing what the company termed the “Facebook generation” with “its natural home on 4 wheels”. The Three-pointed Star took things a step further with the facelift, when the various driver-assistance functions were extended (or improved) and a larger version of the floating infotainment screen became available, along with items such as LED high-performance headlamps and ambient lighting.
Monster performance from the A45: The arrival of the A45 – the first high-performance compact model from AMG – changed the hot-hatch game, effectively marking the birth of the true “hyper hatch”. Despite employing a smaller engine than its foe from Ingolstadt, the A45 boasted more power than the original (250 kW) Audi RS3 Sportback. Though the AMG-badged A-Class was admittedly somewhat one-dimensional in its approach to performance, there was no denying its giant-slaying abilities, nor the enduring impact it would have on what has become a power-obsessed segment.
What are the disadvantages of a Mercedes-Benz A-Class?
The W176’s biggest weakness is its harsh ride quality, particularly in pre-facelift form.
Harsh ride on anything but perfect tar: Despite boasting a 4-link rear suspension set-up rather than the more rudimentary torsion-beam arrangement, the W176 A-Class suffered from an overly firm ride quality, something that became obvious when the tarmac turned even a little uneven. Combining the so-called “comfort” chassis set-up with smaller alloys produced the best (but still below par) result, while the optional sports suspension and larger-diameter wheels – not to mention the presence of noisy runflat tyres on some derivatives – only served to amplify this flaw.
Though Mercedes-Benz rolled out adaptive damping in conjunction with new drive modes in an attempt to rectify this shortcoming when the A-Class was facelifted (quipping the updated model was “as comfortable as never before”), the W176 would ultimately never ride with the pliancy of something like the 7th-generation Volkswagen Golf. Low-speed comfort levels were further reduced in models specified with what was a somewhat sluggish dual-clutch transmission.
Gruff turbodiesel engines: Neither the Renault-sourced 1.5-litre turbodiesel (“OM607” in Mercedes speak or “K9K” in Renault parlance) nor Benz’s own 2.1-litre oil-burner (OM651) was exactly refined, a fact completely at odds with this model’s premium positioning. Both engines were rather gruff, particularly at city speeds, where diesel clatter easily penetrated the cabin. That said, they were far more fuel-efficient than their petrol-powered siblings, with the smaller unit sipping a claimed 3.8 L/100 km (when fitted with the 6-speed manual gearbox), while the larger mill was said to consume 4.3 L/100 km in the A220 CDI, 4.5 L/100 km in the A200d and 4.2 L/100 km in the A220d.
The turbodiesel engines offered in the W176 A-Class weren’t particularly refined.
Relatively cramped cabin: While the original A-Class and its successor were optimised for practicality, the W176 model made a few utility sacrifices at the altar of style. The rear bench was rather cramped for even average-sized adult passengers (whose scalps bore the brunt of that low roofline) and, moreover, access to the back was tight because the rear doors didn’t open quite as wide as those of many A-Class competitors. Luggage space, too, was a little below class average, coming in at a claimed 341 litres.
Miscellaneous potential headaches: Our research identified a few potential complaints that were more isolated than those above but perhaps still worth mentioning. For instance, some examples developed dashboard rattles, while a handful suffered from electrical issues and airbag faults.
Certain early derivatives were recalled for defective dual-clutch automatic transmissions; some A45 variants endured turbocharged issues; and timing chains were known to wear prematurely (note only the Renault-sourced OM607 oil burner employed a belt, as opposed to a chain). Finally, we’ve seen a few complaints of diesel particulate filter (DPF) blockages, though this is admittedly a fairly regular issue with modern turbodiesel-engined cars that are mostly utilised to complete short journeys.
How much is a Mercedes-Benz A-Class in South Africa?
The A250 isn’t nearly as easy to come by on the used market as the A200.
All versions of the W176 A-Class shipped standard with Mercedes-Benz SA’s 6-year/100 000 km “PremiumDrive” maintenance plan (though the contract could be optionally extended up to 8 years or 180 000 km). As such, it’s worth keeping in mind that early versions will, by now, be well out of plan. As always, the presence of a verifiable maintenance history is important here; we’d also suggest avoiding models wearing aftermarket body kits and wheels.
Of the used W176-gen Mercedes-Benz A-Class listings on Cars.co.za at the time of writing, 71% featured petrol engines (the most common being the A200, with a nearly 50% share), while almost 14% were range-topping A45 derivatives (as opposed to the A250 Sport’s stake of just 10%). A whopping 94% of all units were specified with the dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Early model-year A200 examples are among the cheapest W176s on the market.
Listed mileages varied from just 14 000 km to 317 000 km, with the latter figure achieved by a 2016 A250 Sport (which incidentally featured A45-mimicking body modifications). We spotted a further 6 examples – including a 2013 A45 – each with more than 200 000 km on their respective odometers. Overall, the most common paint colour was white (39%), followed by silver (20%) and red (13%).
Below R200 000: Predictably, the few W176 models listed below R200 000 were all early model-year examples (2013 and 2014), most of which had well in excess of 150 000 km on their odometers. We found only A180, A180d and A200 derivatives here.
From R200 000 to R300 000: This was the most densely populated pricing bracket at the time of writing, with more than 40% of W176 listings positioned in this bracket. Every single powertrain variant was present (yes, there were even a few pre-facelift A45 examples), although the A200 – including a number of later model-year units – was again easily the most dominant.
From R300 000 to R400 000: Should you be considering a facelifted mid- or high-spec A-Class, you’d likely be shopping in this space (though we discovered a few low-mileage pre-facelift examples here as well). Interestingly, flirting with the R400 000-mark could also potentially get you into a pre-owned base version of the current-gen W177 model.
R400 000 and up: As you might expect, the majority of listings above this point were A45s, from early model-year, low-mileage examples through to a couple of facelifted units priced on the far side of R500 000. However, there were also some 2018 garden-variety derivatives here. Again, we should point out you have the option of upgrading to a used W177 for this sort of money.
Which W176 Mercedes-Benz A-Class should I buy?
We’d advise sticking to facelifted models if your budget allows.
It’s often wise to steer well clear of the early examples of a generation and that advice rings particularly true with the W176. Indeed, initial versions suffered from various maladies, many of which we’ve touched on above. Thus, we’d suggest avoiding 2013 and perhaps 2014 derivatives, just to be on the safe side.
Similarly, it may be worth tightening your search to facelifted models (those with adaptive damping fitted) if you’re keen to mitigate the harsh ride as much as possible; you might also benefit from the optional larger touchscreen and a few extra equipment upgrades here. Another route would be to stick to lower-spec derivatives on smaller wheels shod in higher-profile rubber.
Despite its sky-high outputs, the A45 engine is perhaps more reliable than you think (when looked after, of course).
So, which engine derivative is the one to go for? Well, the answer depends mainly on your priorities. If you’re seeking the lowest possible running costs, we’d recommend the diesel-sipping A200d, though again be warned this engine is quite coarse on the ear. If refinement is more important to you, the petrol-powered A200 is perhaps your best bet. There’s also the A250 Sport as a somewhat under-appreciated alternative to the ubiquitous Golf GTI.
And the A45? Well, bar some issues with the very earliest examples, the AMG-fettled A-Class appears to be more reliable than you might think (when fastidiously looked after, of course). Still, it’s certainly the genre of car most likely to attract abuse from often mechanically unsympathetic owners, so pay particularly close attention to the maintenance history should you decide to take the plunge.
Is the Mercedes-Benz A-Class a good used buy?
Bear in mind the rear passenger compartment is relatively cramped.
The W176’s key rivals were the Audi A3 Sportback (Typ 8V) and rear-wheel-drive BMW 1 Series (F20), with Ingolstadt’s contender trouncing the A-Class in the cabin-quality and practicality departments, and Munich’s fighter triumphing when it came to driving dynamics. Though its badge didn’t hold quite the same level of premium appeal, the Volkswagen Golf (Mk7) was another mainstream option in this space. Still, all 3 lacked the “wow factor” of the then-box-fresh A-Class.
Left-field choices here included the under-appreciated Volvo V40, the hybrid-powered Lexus CT200h (which was effectively a Toyota Prius in Lexus attire) and perhaps even the Alfa Romeo Giulietta, though the latter shared a number of compromises – from a lack of rear passenger space to an unyielding ride quality – with the A-Class.
The A45 (pictured here featuring the AMG Aerodynamics package) pushed the power envelope.
Meanwhile, the A45’s chief competitor was the RS3 Sportback, though other – admittedly lower-powered and less premium – options included the C346-generation Ford Focus RS and the Volkswagen Golf 7 R. Though it was an entirely different beast taking the form of a rear-driven coupe rather than an all-paw hyper hatch, the F87-generation BMW M2 represented a far more compelling alternative for keener drivers (something that could be said of the 6-cylinder M135i and M140i of the era, too).
Ultimately, while the A45 certainly pushed the power envelope, the broader W176 Mercedes-Benz A-Class range wasn’t class-leading in any meaningful way. But it certainly fulfilled its mandate of attracting younger buyers to the brand, largely thanks to the suave styling that stood in stark contrast to that of previous A-Class generations. The biggest question prospective buyers will have to answer is whether those looks are enough to offset the W176’s most significant weakness: its harsh ride.
Chinese automotive manufacturing company, BYD Auto, has arrived in South Africa and has launched the new Atto 3 electric crossover!
Never heard of BYD? BYD is an acronym for “Build Your Dreams” and as far as Electric Vehicles (EVs) are concerned, it’s China’s Tesla equivalent.
In 2022, BYD was ranked as the largest EV producer and it produced over 1.8-million electric vehicles in 2022, even out-producing Tesla (over 1.3-million units) by a big margin. With mega growth expected in the EV market in China and around the world, BYD has its sights set on international markets, including South Africa, and the Chinese automotive juggernaut has now officially arrived, bringing the Atto 3 crossover to market.
BYD Atto 3 – Key Features
Chinese EVs have come a long way in terms of design. The Atto 3 crossover oozes style.
The BYD Atto 3 is an electric crossover that’s built on the firm’s e-Platform 3.0. It stands 4 455 mm long, 1 875 mm wide, 1 615 mm tall and has a wheelbase of 2 720 mm.
As far as styling is concerned the Atto 3 is a rather attractive EV product in our opinion and it rides on 18-inch alloy wheels while features such as roof rails, panoramic sunroof, rear light bar, electric folding mirrors and a sleek front-end with attractive headlight units give the Atto 3 an overtly stylish appearance.
The Atto 3 is powered by an electric motor positioned over the front axle delivering generous outputs of 150 kW and 310 Nm and claims a zero to 100 kph sprint time of 7.3 seconds.
The Atto 3 is equipped with a 50.1 kWh battery as standard with a WLTP range of 320 km or an extended-range version with a 60.4 kWh battery with a range of 420 km. For charging purposes, the Atto 3 is equipped with a Type 2 AC and Type 2 CCS (80 kW fast-charging) charging ports as well as a 220V emergency charging cable. Charging from 20% to 80% using the 80kW fast-charger will take 45 minutes.
More so, the Atto 3 can generate electricity using a Vehicle-To-Load (VTOL) system to power some appliances in your home during load-shedding and can generate up to 3.3 kW of electricity!
The Atto 3’s interior is modern and well-equipped with comfort and convenience features.
Moving inside, the BYD Atto 3 features a modern-looking cabin with a large 12.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 5.0-inch instrument cluster. Other notable features include a wireless charging pad, 8-speaker sound system, multifunction steering wheel, keyless entry, keyless start and electrically adjustable front seats.
Safety features include 7 airbags, ABS with EBD, brake assist, electronic stability control, front and rear collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane keep warning, lane-keeping assist and rear cross-traffic alert.
BYD Atto 3 Price in South Africa
BYD Atto 3 (50.1 kWh) – R768 000
BYD Atto 3 (60.4 kWh) – R835 000
The BYD Atto 3 is sold with a 5-year / 100 000km warranty and 5-year / 100 000 km service plan.
BMW Group confirms massive investment into BMW SA’s Rosslyn plant for the production of the next-gen X3.
As part of the 50 years in SA anniversary, BMW SA has announced a R4.2 billion investment by BMW Group into its plant at Rosslyn, near Pretoria.
BMW has quite the manufacturing legacy in South Africa and the Rosslyn plant has manufactured over 1.6 million vehicles to date. The Rosslyn plant was also the first plant that BMW built outside of Germany. These cars have been for both local consumption and exported to over 40 countries. Right now, it currently manufactures the X3 medium-sized SUV, but in the past, the 3 Series. 5 Series, 7 Series and 1800/2000 were all made there.
Dr Milan Nedeljkovic, Chairman of the Board of Management for BMW Group SA said, “From 2024 we will produce the BMW X3 in SA as a plug-in hybrid and export it to the world. To this end, the BMW Group is investing R4.2 billion in the site over 5 years.”
The investment by BMW Global is multi-pronged, with the upgrading of facilities to support the assembly of the next-gen BMW X3 plug-in hybrid as well as the next-gen X3 internal combustion-powered models later on. There’s also a corporate/social responsibility program which sees BMW Group partner with UNICEF to provide R30 million towards primary and secondary school learners.
This investment secures over 20 000 jobs, both those employed directly by BMW SA and those indirectly working via the supply chain. There will be additional training rolled out for the workers and more than 300 staff will receive specialised training on the brand-new X3 plug-in hybrid.
What is a plug-in hybrid, you may ask? Essentially, it’s a hybrid vehicle which features both an internal combustion engine (petrol/diesel) as well as a battery and electric motor. It can be charged by an external power source as well as its own engine. It can run on pure electric power for zero emission quiet running as well as deploy both powertrains for full-bore acceleration sprints.
We can expect to see the all-new BMW X3 revealed before the end of 2023 with production of the plug-in hybrid model towards the end of 2024.
Farewell, W12! Here’s SA pricing for the limited-run Bentley Continental GT Speed Edition 12 as well as the equivalent versions of the Bentayga, Flying Spur and Continental GTC…
Bentley’s iconic twin-turbocharged 6.0-litre W12 engine is nearing the end of the road, with production scheduled to wrap up in April 2024. So, the Crewe-based automaker recently revealed limited-run Speed Edition 12 versions of its Bentayga, Continental GT, Continental GTC and Flying Spur.
Though just 120 units of each will be produced, we now have confirmation a few examples are indeed destined for South African roads. And, as such, we can share local pricing for these special tribute cars.
The Flying Spur Speed Edition 12 will be priced from R6 750 000, though it won’t be the most expensive iteration, with the Continental GTC Speed Edition 12 (R7 350 000) taking that title. The Bentayga Speed Edition 12, meanwhile, will kick off from R6 160 000, while the Continental GT Speed Edition 12 will start at R6 720 000.
In the Bentayga and Flying Spur, the hefty W12 powerplant delivers 467 kW and 900 Nm to all 4 wheels, with peak twisting force on tap from just 1 500 r/min all the way through to 5 000 r/min. Maximum power rises to 485 kW in the case of the likewise all-paw Continental GT and the open-top Continental GTC, which both top out at a heady 335 kph.
Production of Bentley’s W12 is due to end in April 2024.
So, what makes a Speed Edition 12? Well, based on the Speed specification, the Edition 12 package includes a numbered engine plaque, model-specific embroidery, colour-graduated seat contrast stitching and a facia finished in Grand Black veneer (complete with the engine firing sequence etched alongside an inlaid “Edition 12” badge).
There are also silver brake callipers (a hue not available for these items on any other Bentley model), while the Continental GT and GTC feature model badging on their front fenders. The Bentayga and Flying Spur versions, meanwhile, carry their “Edition 12” insignias on their respective rear quarters. Other exterior features include Blackline brightware, black 22-inch Speed alloy wheels and self-levelling wheel badges. In addition, a new “Opalite” paint colour is available as an option.
Buyers will furthermore receive a scale model of the W12 engine block as a “commemorative artefact”, each one cast using aluminium taken from a full-size W12. As a reminder, back in 2003, the twin-turbo version of the W12 engine made its debut as the powertrain of choice for the first all-new model under Volkswagen Group ownership, the Continental GT.
How much do Bentley’s Speed Edition 12 models cost in SA?
2023 Range Rover Sport Review: The Best Range Rover Yet?
The brand-new 2023 Range Rover has gone on sale in South Africa. Is it worth the large price tag? Ashley Oldfield wafts around the Winelands and delivers a thorough assessment of the tech, interior and drive.
The Range Rover Sport has always been desirable in the premium SUV segment. Its design has always made sure it stands out in a space where more and more competitors have joined the fray. We put wannabe British gangster, Ashley Oldfield behind the wheel to see what the brand-new version is like to drive.
We consider what the new Range Rover Sport is like to drive, its new features, and how practical the interior is for the modern premium SUV buyer. Are the back seats comfortable enough and do you even need rear-seat entertainment these days?
Finally, what makes a Range Rover Sport special and is it worth spending the extra money on a British SUV instead of the German rivals?
Toyota Hilux Mild-Hybrid Concept Previews A More Efficient Bakkie
The Japanese giant completed a demonstration run of the Hilux Mild-Hybrid concept at the recent World Rally Championship leg, held in Kenya.
Behind the wheel of the Hilux Mild-Hybrid you see here was none other than 4-time WRC champion and Toyota driver Juha Kankkunen. Essentially, this concept is to demonstrate Toyota’s strategy to deliver more efficient and cleaner vehicles.
After the demo run, Juha Kankkunen said: “I’m 100% sure that this type of car will fit in Africa very well because there are still long-distance drives and it’s very difficult to charge electric cars. You can save fuel, which means less CO2. Africa is a good market for this kind of car, and you can make CO2 less with hybrid cars. That is the future.”
Toyota is one of the few brands that hasn’t plunged headfirst into an all-electric product portfolio, preferring a measured and scaled approach. Africa has limited electric-vehicle charging infrastructure and products like the Hilux Mild-Hybrid will assist with a reduction in both economy and emissions.
While the release detailing the demo drive didn’t include any technical details, Toyota Australia has confirmed the 2.8-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine is in line to gain 48-volt technology which is said to result in a fuel saving of “approximately 10%” for “certain” derivatives.
Toyota has also announced its mission to “mass-produce happiness” by suppling vehicles that support Africa’s lifelines and given its popularity, the Hilux will be one of the core products involved. As a reminder, Toyota South Africa manufacturers the Corolla, Corolla Quest and Corolla Cross along with the Hilux and Fortuner at its Prospecton plant, near Durban.
Meet the BMW X1 M35i xDrive, a hot new version of the firm’s smallest SUV, complete with the most potent iteration of the M Performance 4-pot yet…
The new BMW X1 M35i xDrive has been revealed, boasting suitably aggressive exterior styling and the most powerful M Performance 4-cylinder engine yet … depending on the market, that is.
Yes, while the hottest version of the Munich-based firm’s smallest SUV – which clearly has the Mercedes-AMG GLA35 squarely in its sights – employs a new incarnation of the twin-turbocharged 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol unit, its peak power will vary by country. In the United States “and other selected markets”, BMW says the engine will generate 233 kW, while the version offered in Europe will settle for 221 kW.
So, what about South Africa? Well, BMW Group SA told Cars.co.za it has no plans to introduce the new X1 M35i “as yet”. While nothing’s set in stone, the inclusion of those final 2 words at least leaves the door open for a local introduction at some point down the line.
Anyway, back to the story. Maximum torque is 400 Nm regardless of the peak power output, with this twisting force on tap from 2 000 to 4 500 r/min. The German automaker claims a 0-100 kph time of 5.4 seconds (we’re guessing this applies to the 233 kW tune), while top speed is electronically limited to 250 kph. As a reminder, the X2 M35i and the M135i hot hatch each make 225 kW and 450 Nm from an earlier version of this 4-pot motor and hit 100 kph from standstill around half-a-second earlier.
The X1 M35i features quad-pipes, just like a full-fat M model.
As standard, the X1 M35i is fitted with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, complete with shift paddles and featuring a built-in mechanical limited-slip differential. The new all-wheel-drive M Performance model further debuts the brand’s so-called “M Sport Boost” function, which sees all powertrain and chassis systems switched to their sportiest settings when the driver pulls and holds the left-hand shift paddle. Other highlights include an M-specific exhaust system, which BMW promises will deliver an “emotionally rich soundtrack”, channelling exhaust gases via 2 pairs of twin tailpipes (each with a diameter of 80 mm), much like a full-fat M product.
The new engine differs from the preceding generation in that it adopts the Miller cycle, gains redesigned intake ports and combustion chambers, and benefits from changes to the camshaft timing, injection, ignition system and exhaust gas routing. The 4-banger furthermore scores what BMW describes as an “extremely robust” crankshaft drive, an “optimised” system of oil supply for the pistons (with cooling channels), and main bearing shells and caps borrowed from the latest 6-cylinder petrol engines.
Standard specification includes adaptive M suspension (including a 15 mm ride-height drop), sport steering and 19-inch twin-spoke M light-alloy wheels. The X1 M35i xDrive – which incidentally boasts twin-stalk side mirrors, just like a full-bore M model – also becomes the first M Performance model to be offered with the option of M Compound brakes, comprising 4-piston, fixed-calliper brakes with 385 mm drilled discs at the front and single-piston, floating-calliper units with 330 mm discs at the rear.
BMW promises the steering features a “very direct” rack ratio.
Inside, the BMW Curved Display (which comprises a 10.25-inch information display and a 10.7-inch control display) features plenty of M-specific content. The new BMW X1 M35i furthermore uses an updated versions of the BMW iDrive with QuickSelect and the BMW Operating System 9. The result is a newly designed home screen with what the German firm terms an “improved menu structure”. There’s also an anthracite-coloured headliner, M door-sill trim, M pedals and sports seats finished in Sensatec/Alcantara (with blue contrast stitching). Buyers can optionally specify M Sport seats, too.
Finally, the X1 M35i will be available with a “model-specific” M Sport Package Pro, which encompasses M high-gloss Shadowline exterior trim, M lights Shadowline, an M Sport braking system (with red callipers), M Sport seats and M seat belts.
The newcomer will be built alongside standard versions of the U11-generation X1 (as well as the fully electric iX1) at BMW’s facility in Regensburg, Germany.
Mahindra Thar 5-door To Be Revealed in South Africa
The offroad-focused Mahindra Thar family will be expanding with a new 5-door model. The interesting part is the Indian-based brand has chosen South Africa for the reveal.
The news comes from Autocar India, who claim the new Mahindra Thar will be revealed in South Africa on the 15th August 2023.
As a reminder, the Mahindra Thar is a rugged two-door offroader in the same vein as the Suzuki Jimny. The current generation model was revealed back in the middle of 2020 and we had hopes that it would be introduced to our market. Sadly, it has not yet materialised, but three years on, the Mahindra Thar family is due to receive a five-door model.
Not much is known yet, but the original source suggested the new Mahindra Thar 5-door model will be available with a choice of either a 2.2-litre turbodiesel and a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine. We’d assume these are the same engines available in the Scorpio-N and XUV700 SUVs.
It’s easy to understand why Mahindra has chosen our country for a reveal. Mahindra SA manufacturers the Scorpio bakkie in Kwa-Zulu Natal and its passenger car sales have shown good growth with the XUV range of SUVs. There’s a rumour we might see the all-electric XUV400 hitting SA roads at some point.
The Mahindra Thar 5-door reveal is a similar strategy to that of Suzuki, with now a 2-door and 5-door Jimny being offered and we expect the two vehicles to go head-to-head.
We expect the all-new Mahindra Thar range to go on sale in South Africa in 2024. Stay tuned for updates as we get closer to the middle of August.
