GAC GS3 Emzoom (2024) Price & Specs

GAC Motor is the latest Chinese automotive brand to enter the South African new-vehicle market in 2024 and its debut model is the arrestingly styled GS3 Emzoom compact family car.

GAC Motor, a subsidiary of GAC Group, was founded in 2008. The fledgling brand signed a strategic agreement with the Salvador Caetano Group to handle its distribution and retail operations in Mzansi and its first offering on local soil, the GAC GS3 Emzoom, competes in a bustling segment of the market.

“Together, we will leverage our strengths to bring high-quality vehicles to the South African market, supported by a robust dealership network focused on customer satisfaction,” Wang Shunsheng, the deputy general manager of GAC Motor, said recently.

Billed as a “next-generation SUV” by its maker, the GAC GS3 Emzoom “is set to captivate South African consumers with (a) combination of aesthetics, practicality, and quality,” the Chinese brand says.

Like its fellow Chinese-made small crossovers – the Omoda C5, Jaecoo J7 and BAIC X55 Beijing – the GS2 Emzoom is distinguished by strikingly futuristic styling cues, including sharp lines, hidden door handles, ornate taillights and – on the Sports Pack-equipped 1.5T R-Style – even a sportscar-inspired rear diffuser with a pair of centrally positioned exhaust ends, along with a sizeable panoramic sunroof.

The GAC GS3 Emzoom’s “flying-mecha” front-end design features LED headlights with LED DRLs, while a double waistline element accentuates the model’s flanks. The 3D-effect tail-light clusters, which are said to incorporate 66 LEDs, are complemented by the sporty rear wing; 18-inch alloys are standard.

The GAC GS3 Emzoom is 4 410 mm long, 1 850 mm wide and stands 1 600 mm tall; it rides on McPherson front and a torsion-beam rear suspension, and GAC Motor claims the small crossover’s load bay can hold 341 litres (and up to 1 271 litres when the rear seats are folded down).

With its stylish, upmarket and tech-laden cabin, the GAC GS3 Emzoom seems to straddle the small family car and boutique crossover segments; it has as many as 21 storage compartments (helped by its floating centre console design, no doubt) and a host of connectivity options via its 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which supports wired Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay.

Even the entry-level GS3 Emzoom 1.5T Comfort comes equipped with electrically folding side mirrors, keyless entry/start, a multifunction ‘wheel, cruise- and dual-zone climate control, Type-A front USB ports, one-touch anti-pinch electric windows, a reverse-view camera and 3 drive modes (Eco, Comfort and Sport).

But whereas the 1.5T Comfort has fabric and synthetic leather upholstery and a 3.5-inch driver info display in its instrument cluster, the 1.5T Executive has leather trim on the ‘wheel and seats, a 7-inch LCD digital instrument cluster, adaptive cruise control, 2nd-row ventilation outlets and rear reading lights.

As expected, the range-topping 1.5T R-Style has the most comprehensive spec, which includes rain-sensing wipers, 6-way power adjustment for the driver’s seat, a crystal-detailed transmission lever, a wireless charging pad, a surround-view camera system, Type-C front USB ports, a rear centre armrest and -headrest, ambient cabin lighting, as well as an electrically operated tailgate.

In terms of standard safety equipment, all variants come fitted with dual-front airbags, ABS with EBD, an electronic stability programme, hill-hold control, an electronic parking brake, tyre pressure monitors and ISOfix child-seat safety anchors.

However, you have to upgrade to the 1.5T Executive to benefit from additional safety items (and ADAS systems) such as dual front side airbags, automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, traffic-sign recognition, intelligent speed-limit control and lane departure warning.

On top of the 1.5T Executive’s safety spec, the 1.5T R-Line range-topper further adds curtain airbags, hill descent control and high-beam assist.

All GAC GS3 Emzoom derivatives are powered by a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbopetrol engine that produces 130 kW/270 Nm and is mated with a 7-speed (wet) dual-clutch automatic transmission.

GAC GS3 Emzoom multifunction steering wheel

The Chinese manufacturer claims GS3 Emzoom variants (all of which are equipped with electric power steering) can accelerate from zero to 100 kph in 8 sec, while consuming an average of 6.2 litres of fuel per 100 km on the combined cycle.

The GS3 Emzoom is said to be the first of 3 GAC models (including the Emkoo family car and Aion Y electric crossover) that will be launched in South Africa. All variants come with a 5-year/150 000km warranty and a 5-year/60 000km service plan, with service intervals every 15 000km.

How much does the GAC GS3 Emzoom cost in SA?

GS3 EMZOOM 1.5T Comfort	R469 900
GS3 EMZOOM 1.5T Executive	R499 900
GS3 EMZOOM 1.5T R-Style	R549 900

BMW M5 Touring unleashed!

The 535 kW BMW M5 Touring has just been revealed, adding a station wagon body style to the family. Here’s your first look.

The BMW M5 Touring looks better than the M5 sedan. Yes, we said it. Without any awkwardness, the Touring’s proportions look almost spot on, but we’re confident that in the flesh it will be stellar.

Mechanically, its identical to the sedan and features the same 4.4-litre turbocharged V8 engine with an electric assist. All 535 kW and 1000 Nm go to all four wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission and BMW claims a 0-100 time of just 3.6 seconds, which is a tenth slower than the sedan. Tick that optional M Driver’s package and a top speed of 304 kph is yours.

Inside, the Touring is all about the boot space and with the rear seats folded down, there’s a maximum cargo carrying capacity of 1 630 litres. The vehicle comes with an automatic tailgate and of course, there’s a tiny window in the rear bench to facilitate longer items like skis, fishing rods and curtain rails.

From what we can see, the BMW M5 Touring is well equipped with just a handful of options, like the steering wheel heating, active seat ventilation and a panoramic glass sunroof. As standard, you get a Bowers & Wilkins audio system, curved infotainment screen, heads-up display, 4-zone climate control, and M Sport multi-function sports seats, to name but a few.

While there’s no local confirmation yet, the BMW M5 Touring will hit international showrooms before the end of 2024. As it stands, the sedan M5 will be making its South African debut at the BMW M Fest, which is being held at Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit in Gauteng, in October.

New 5-door Mahindra Thar Roxx revealed

Meet the new Mahindra Thar Roxx, which debuts with 5 doors and a choice of petrol and diesel engines. So, will this compact Wrangler-like off-roader come to SA?

The new Mahindra Thar Roxx has been revealed in India, with this latest version of the body-on-frame SUV featuring 5 rather than 3 doors, along with a suitably lengthened wheelbase.

Measuring 4 428 mm from snout to rump, the new 5-seater Thar Roxx falls in roughly between the 5-door Suzuki Jimny and the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited in terms of exterior dimensions. Featuring a wheelbase of 2 850 mm, the newcomer measures 1 870 mm wide and stands 1 923 mm tall.

So, will we see this Roxx-badged model in South Africa? Well, though the original 3-door Thar was offered on local shores, the 2nd-gen model revealed in 2020 still hasn’t made it to Mzansi. From what we understand, plans to introduce the Thar in SA fell away as Mahindra instead prioritised meeting robust demand in its domestic market of India.

And it seems the same will apply to the new Thar Roxx – at least for now. Though Rajesh Gupta, CEO of Mahindra South Africa, didn’t rule out launching the new model at a later stage, he told Cars.co.za that his company “appreciates the interest shown from local audiences regarding Thar Roxx”, adding that the local division would “provide updates as appropriate should there be any new developments”.

Built on what Mahindra calls its “all-new M_Glyde platform” at the Nashik facility in India, the Thar Roxx can be specified with a turbocharged 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol “mStallion” engine that generates 119 kW and 330 Nm in 6-speed manual form and 130 kW and 380 Nm in 6-speed automatic guise.

There’s also Mahindra’s 2.2-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel “mHawk” motor, which makes 112 kW and 330 Nm in rear-wheel-drive models and in the manual-equipped 4×4 derivative, and 129 kW and 370 Nm in self-shifting 4×4 guise.

The Thar Roxx employs independent front suspension with double wishbones and coil springs, while the rear set-up features a rigid axle coil-spring arrangement with a Watt’s linkage. Models equipped with part-time 4×4 furthermore boast low-range gearing and an electronic locking differential.

The approach, departure and ramp-over angles are listed as 41.7, 36.1 and 23.9 degrees respectively (figures that Mahindra claim are “best in class”), while the wading depth comes in at 650 mm. Available safety features include 6 airbags, electronic stability control, tyre-pressure monitoring, automatic emergency braking, a 360-degree camera system, adaptive cruise control and roll-over mitigation.

Other interesting features offered in India include ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, a 9-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, wireless smartphone charging and a pair of 10.25-inch screens (comprising a digital instrument cluster and an infotainment system, with the latter featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto).

Volkswagen ID.4 (2024) Video Review

The all-electric Volkswagen ID.4 will be officially available to customers from 2025. We’ve had a first taste of what you can expect.

Volkswagen South Africa has taken a cautious approach to introducing EVs in SA. Some may even say they have taken too long, but the brand has dipped its toe into the local EV water with the e-Golf in 2020. Now, it’s taking another step with the ID.4, but don’t get too excited as it’s not officially on sale. It will be at some point in the future.

Today, we had the opportunity to try out the Volkswagen ID.4, an electric SUV that won World Car of the Year 2020. What do you need to know about it and what is there to look forward to when VW eventually starts selling it? Jacob Moshokoa takes you through the details of what will be VW’s first EV to go on sale locally.

Buy a Volkswagen on Cars.co.za

Mercedes-Benz eSprinter (2024) Price & Specs

The fully electric Mercedes-Benz eSprinter has officially launched in South Africa, arriving as the country’s most expensive panel van. Here’s how much it costs…

The fully electric Mercedes-Benz eSprinter has officially hit the market in South Africa, with the local range comprising a trio of derivatives at launch. The electric panel van is available in either standard- or long-wheelbase (LWB) form, with 2 battery capacities on offer.

The standard-wheelbase derivative employs a rear-mounted 100 kW/400 Nm electric motor and an 81 kWh (usable capacity) battery pack, a powertrain that is likewise offered in LWB form. The flagship LWB variant, meanwhile, upgrades to a 150 kW/400 Nm electric motor and a 113 kWh (usable capacity) battery. Gross vehicle weight is a claimed 4 250 kg, while towing capacity is “up to” 2 000 kg and load volume “up to 14 m³”.

Gross vehicle weight is a claimed 4 250 kg, while towing capacity is said to be “up to” 2 000 kg and load volume “up to 14 m³”. While the eSprinter isn’t the priciest light-commercial vehicle on the market (that title instead goes to the top-spec versions of the Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster), it is easily the most expensive panel van.

Just how expensive? Well, the 414 eSprinter Pro (81 kWh) kicks off at R1 270 030, while the 420 eSprinter Pro LWB (81 kWh) starts at R1 301 140. The flagship variant is the 420 eSprinter Pro LWB (113 kWh), which comes in from R1 566 723.

Curiously, the local press release does not include any official claimed single-charge range figures, instead mentioning a 475 km route covered by a “pre-production” model equipped with the 113 kWh battery pack, as well as a “preliminary” 530 km figure based on “simulations”. The local website, meanwhile, says only that range will depend on the “individual driving style, road and traffic conditions, outside temperature, and the use of the air conditioning system, heating system and other electrical consumers”.

According to Mercedes-Benz Vans, the eSprinter’s battery pack can be charged with direct current at up to 115 kW at a fast-charging station, which would take the 81 kWh unit to 80% in “around 32 minutes” (presumably from empty) and 113 kWh unit to the same mark in “approximately 42 minutes”. The official price list, however, suggests this 115 kW maximum charge speed is a R14 605 extra, with the standard DC charging rate instead coming in at 50 kW.

The so-called “Pro” package is standard on all 3 derivatives and includes items such as a USB socket, semi-automatic air conditioning, active brake assist, hill-start assist, a multifunctional steering wheel (with rake-and-reach adjustment), a heated driver’s seat, rain-sensing wipers, cruise control and the MBUX multimedia system (though navigation will cost you an extra R14 473).

“With the introduction of the new eSprinter, we are solidifying our position as leaders in electric drive technology. The new eSprinter redefines what an electric van can be. Its innovative design, robust technical features and exceptional efficiency make it the perfect choice for businesses looking to embrace locally-emission-free mobility without compromising on performance,” said Marinus Venter, Head of Product, Marketing and Customer Services for Mercedes-Benz Vans SA.

“By launching the premium eSprinter in the South African market, we aim to transform the industry, by reaffirming our commitment to delivering cutting-edge, sustainable solutions that meet the diverse needs of our esteemed customers,” he added.

How much does the Mercedes-Benz eSprinter cost in SA?

414 eSprinter Pro (81 kWh) – R1 270 030

420 eSprinter Pro LWB (81 kWh) – R1 301 140

420 eSprinter Pro LWB (113 kWh) – R1 566 723

The prices above include a 2-year/unlimited kilometre warranty, with the battery pack covered by an 8-year/160 000 km warranty “certificate”. Mercedes-Benz Vans offers what it calls the “ServiceCare eComplete Plan” (with intervals of 1 year or 40 000 km) as an option, starting at R54 683 for the 5-year/100 000 km arrangement.

GWM P-Series P500 (2024) Price & Specs

The new GWM P-Series P500 – which debuts a fresh 2.4-litre turbodiesel engine and is also offered in 255 kW hybrid form – has officially launched in South Africa!

The new GWM P-Series P500 has officially launched in South Africa, some 3 weeks after Cars.co.za published its pricing scoop (22 July 2024). As we reported at the time, this supersized Chinese double-cab bakkie debuts a fresh 2.4-litre turbodiesel engine and is also available in 255 kW hybrid guise.

At launch, the new P-Series P500 is offered in 3 forms, with this trio of double-cab derivatives slotting in above the existing P-Series variants.

First up is the P-Series P500 2.4TD Luxury 4×4 9AT, which is priced from R799 900. Power comes from a new 2.4-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel mill codenamed GW4D24, which generates peak outputs of 135 kW and 480 Nm. Drive is delivered to all 4 wheels via a 9-speed automatic transmission as standard, while claimed fuel economy comes in at 8.6 L/100 km.

This fresh powertrain – which makes 15 kW and 80 Nm more than the 2.0-litre oil-burner that’s employed across the standard P-Series portfolio – is likewise offered in the P-Series P500 2.4TD Super Luxury 4×4 9AT, which starts at R889 900.

Finally, there’s the P-Series P500 2.0T HEV Ultra Luxury 4×4 9AT, which is priced at R999 900, narrowly avoiding admission to SA’s growing club of 7-figure bakkies. This flagship variant uses GWM’s turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol-hybrid set-up, which is already familiar from the top-spec Tank 300 and also features in the Tank 500.

As it does in those ladder-frame SUVs, the P500 version of this powertrain churns out 255 kW and 648 Nm, outputs that are channelled to all 4 corners through a 9-speed automatic transmission. Claimed fuel consumption is listed as 9.8 L/100 km.

The P-Series P500 2.0T HEV Ultra Luxury 4×4 9AT thus launches as South Africa’s first full parallel hybrid bakkie (remember, Toyota’s Hilux 48V derivatives use a mild-hybrid arrangement, while Ford’s electrified Ranger employs a plug-in hybrid set-up and has yet to hit the market). For now, at least, it seems the 260 kW/500 Nm turbocharged V6 petrol engine GWM offers in some other countries is off the menu for Mzansi.

So, what about specifications? Well, the Luxury trim level includes items such as 18-inch alloy wheels (shod in 265/60 R18 tyres), a 12.3-inch touchscreen system (with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), a 360-degree camera, a 6-speaker sound system (with integrated amplifier), parking sensors (fore and aft) and keyless entry.

The list of standard safety equipment includes a full complement of airbags (front, front side, curtain and front centre), adaptive cruise control, traffic-jam assist, trailer sway mitigation, rear cross traffic alert, lane-change assist, front collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian safety assist, bicycle safety assist, automatic collision unlocking, brake assist and downhill assist.

The Super Luxury grade adds items such as front-and-rear electronically controlled differential locks, an electric rear sliding window, an electro-chromatic rear-view mirror, electric adjustment for the front seats (8-way for the driver and 6-way for the front passenger), front-seat ventilation, front-seat heating, a front-seat massage function, Nappa leather upholstery, a 14.6-inch touchscreen, a panoramic sunroof, wireless smartphone charging, a 220V power outlet, auto-folding side mirrors (with a memory function), an “easy-lift” 40:60-split tailgate and front foglamps.

Finally, the Ultra Luxury furthermore scores steering-wheel heating and storage trays under the rear seats, along with a ventilation-and-heating function, 2-way electric adjustment and wireless smartphone charging for rear passengers. Other features specific to this hybrid model include ambient lighting, a head-up display, a “retro” clock, a 10-speaker Harman Infinity sound system, parking assist, adjustable regenerative braking, extra parking sensors (up from 4 to 6) and a demister function for the side mirrors.

Known as the “Shanhai Cannon” in its domestic market of China, as the “Poer Sahar” in Thailand and as the “Cannon Alpha” in Australia, the jumbo-sized bakkie measures a whopping 5 445 mm from snout to rump, making it a considerable 120 mm longer than a Hilux Legend RS double cab and 85 mm lengthier than a Ford Ranger Raptor. It stands 1 991 mm wide and 1 924 mm tall, while sporting a 3 350 mm wheelbase.

While payload capacities are curiously not listed for the SA-market P500, it’s worth noting the equivalent Cannon Alpha offered Down Under is rated to carry between 735 kg and 821 kg, depending on the derivative (with the hybrid at the lower end of that scale). All variants, however, boast the full 3 500 kg braked towing capacity.

How much does the new GWM P-Series P500 cost in SA?

GWM P-Series P500 2.4TD Luxury 4×4 9AT – R799 900

GWM P-Series P500 2.4TD Super Luxury 4×4 9AT – R889 900

GWM P-Series P500 2.0T HEV Ultra Luxury 4×4 9AT – R999 900

A 5-year/75 000 km service plan ships standard, with the standard warranty taking the form of GWM’s 7-year/200 000 km arrangement (plus 8-year/150 000 km coverage for the hybrid variant’s battery pack).

GWM Tank 500 (2024) Price & Specs

The GWM Tank 500 has officially launched in SA – offered exclusively in hybrid form and with 7 seats – as the Chinese firm’s first model priced on the far side of R1 million…

As we reported in our pricing scoop as early as 25 July 2024, the new GWM Tank 500’s arrival in South Africa pushes the Chinese firm into unchartered pricing waters – well past the R1-million mark.

The ladder-frame GWM Tank 500 is offered exclusively in petrol-hybrid form at launch, boasting total system outputs of 255 kW and 648 Nm, with a 9-speed automatic transmission and 4×4 (including as many as 11 driving modes) shipping standard. The claimed fuel economy comes in at 8.5 L/100 km.

This parallel hybrid powertrain is, of course, familiar from the flagship variants in both the Tank 300 and P-Series P500 portfolios, and combines a turbocharged 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine (sipping from an 80-litre fuel tank) with an electric motor and a lithium-ion battery pack.

So, how much will it cost you? Well, interestingly, there’s just a single derivative of the 7-seater SUV available at launch, in the form of the Tank 500 2.0T Ultra Luxury Hybrid 4×4 9AT. Offered at R1 222 900, it becomes the first GWM model to be priced north of R1-million (with the top-spec version of the P500 coming in just under that mark).

Despite the fact our initial information suggested 2 variants would be available (with the 2nd being the Tank 500 2.0T Super Luxury Hybrid 4×4 9AT, priced slightly lower at R1 122 900), the line-up is limited to a single derivative at launch. Still, perhaps the local range will expand at a later point.

Regardless, this pricing sees the Tank 500 going head to head with several established 7-seater SUVs, including the V6 turbodiesel versions of the Ford Everest (the Wildtrak for R1 180 200 and the Platinum for R1 240 600, though those prices are sans service plans) and even the base model in the J250-generation Toyota Land Cruiser Prado range (the 2.8GD TX, priced at R1 296 300).

For the record, the 3-row Tank 500 measures 5 078 mm from nose to tail, making it longer than both the Everest (4 940 mm) and Prado (4 925 mm) – and even lengthier than the Land Cruiser 300 (5 005 mm). However, we should keep in mind that GWM’s 7-seater SUV features a tailgate-mounted spare, which is seemingly included in this measurement.

The Tank 500 has a wheelbase of 2 850 mm, measures 1 934 mm wide and stands 1 905 mm tall. Ground clearance comes in at 224 mm, while the dual-powered SUV’s wading depth is 800 mm. The approach, breakover and departure angles are listed as 30, 22.5 and 24 degrees, respectively, while braked towing capacity is 2 500 kg. Luggage capacity comes in at 795 litres with the 3rd row of seats folded down (and a whopping 1 459 litres with the 2nd and 3rd rows both flat).

So, what about standard specifications for the South African market? Well, the extensive list of kit includes a 14.6-inch touchscreen and Nappa leather accents for the front seats, with the latter being both heated and ventilated, and furthermore featuring an 8-point massage function. Both front pews are electrically adjustable and boast memory settings, too.

Passengers in the 2nd row of the Tank 500 enjoy reclining seats, 2-way adjustable headrests, a dedicated climate-control system, seat cooling and charging points. Legroom in the middle row can be optimised by sliding the seats rearwards if the 3rd row (which can be deployed electronically and has its own roof-mounted vents) is unoccupied.

Other standard features for the Ultra Luxury grade include 20-inch alloy wheels, automatic side steps, a panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, a 12-speaker Infinity sound system, a head-up display, a 360-degree camera and automatic intelligent parking. Safety is covered by intelligent adaptive cruise control, rear collision warning, cross traffic alert, emergency lane-keep assist, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning and a full complement of airbags (front, front side, curtain and front centre).

How much does the GWM Tank 500 cost in South Africa?

GWM Tank 500 2.0T Ultra Luxury Hybrid 4×4 9AT – R1 222 900

The Tank 500 features a 7-year/200 000 km warranty (plus 8-year/150 000 km coverage for the hybrid battery) and a 5-year/75 000 km service plan.

Hyundai Grand i10 (2024) Price & Specs

Hyundai Automotive SA recently tweaked its facelifted Hyundai Grand i10 range, which now features a trimmed line-up and renamed trim grades. Herewith pricing and spec details for the hatchback and sedan variants of Hyundai SA’s best-selling vehicle…

Last month (July 2024), Cars.co.za reported that Hyundai Automotive South Africa had cut the starting prices of its 3 most affordable (and indeed best-selling) models, lowering the barrier to buying a new Grand i10, refreshed i20 compact hatchback and Venue small crossover.

Just like the updated i20 model, the rejigged Grand i10 and Venue ranges have switched from the South Korean firm’s earlier trim-level naming convention (which incorporated the “Motion” and “Fluid” trim grades) to the latest pair of nomenclatures that denote “Premium” and “Executive” equipment levels.

When the facelifted Grand i10 range was launched in Mzansi in August 2023, the portfolio comprised 8 derivatives – 5 hatchbacks, 2 sedans and a solitary Cargo panel van variant. However, Hyundai has quietly trimmed the line-up to 6 derivatives, with a pair of 1.2-litre hatchback variants falling away.

Watch Ciro De Siena’s video review of the 2023 Hyundai Grand i10

What does the facelifted Hyundai Grand i10 offer?

The revised Grand i10 sports a redesigned black grille (with a gloss finish and LED daytime running lights on Executive variants – they’re 3-pointed items on the hatchback and L-shaped arrays on the sedans), plus an updated bumper, while the rear is adorned with a high-mounted stop lamp and revised taillamps.

Also, whereas Premium variants have 14-inch wheels (with plastic trims), their Executive counterparts feature 15-inch alloys and integrated repeaters on their heated- and electrically folding side mirrors.

Inside, all facelifted Grand i10 variants have black cloth-and-vinyl upholstery with red accents, a height-adjustable driver’s seat and tilt-adjustable steering column, a multifunction steering wheel, manual aircon, electric windows all round, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system (Apple CarPlay/Andriod Auto compatible), a Type-C USB fast charger (front), a reverse-view camera and rear air vents.

As before, the entry-level engine for the hatchback (including the Cargo-badged panel van) is a naturally aspirated 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder petrol motor, which generates an unchanged 49 kW/94 Nm. Drive is sent to the front axle via a 5-speed manual gearbox and the claimed consumption figure is 5.5 L/100 km.

If you want a hatchback powered by the slightly punchier 1.2-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine, which delivers peak outputs of 61 kW/114 Nm, the 1.2 Premium 5-door is exclusively available in 4-speed automatic guise. Hyundai Automotive SA says the variant will consume an average of 5.9 L/100 km.

Read more: Hyundai i20 (2024) Launch Review

Whereas the pair of Premium-grade Grand i10 hatchbacks come equipped with black side-mirror caps, a multifunction ‘wheel with a polyurethane finish, a 2.8-inch driver info display in the instrument cluster and a folding rear seatback (not split), the 1.0 Executive hatchback (also available with a black roof finish on white, red and green cars) additionally features auto lights, a 3.5-inch TFT display, artificial leather-trimmed ‘wheel and gear-lever boot, one-touch driver’s window, ambient cabin lighting, cruise control, seatback pockets, a 60:40 split rear bench, a luggage net and -hooks, as well as rear park assist.

Dual front airbags, ABS with EBD and ISOfix child-seat anchors are standard safety features across the range, though stability control is again not present.

The Grand i10 Sedan is offered exclusively in 1.2-litre Executive guise, which has the same spec level as the 5-door 1.0 Executive, apart from the black roof finish being unavailable (the side mirrors are body-coloured), while the 60/40 split rear bench and luggage net and -hooks are not applicable either.

The 5-speed manual version of the 1.2 Executive sedan is said to consume an average of 5.5 L/100 km, while its 4-speed automatic counterpart has a stated fuel consumption figure of 5.7 L/100 km.

The Grand i10 sedan’s main local competition includes the Suzuki DZire and Honda Amaze, which like the Hyundai each comes in at under 4 metres long and is manufactured in India.

Measuring 3 995 mm from nose to tail, the Grand i10 sedan is around 180 mm longer than its 5-door hatch sibling. While the hatchback’s luggage compartment can swallow a claimed 360 litres, Hyundai lists the sedan’s load-bay capacity at a slightly more generous 402 litres.

How much does the facelifted Hyundai Grand i10 cost in SA?

Grand i10 1.0 Premium hatch	R224 900
Hyundai Grand i10 1.0 Premium Cargo panel van	R249 500
Grand i10 1.0 Executive hatch	R269 900
Grand i10 1.2 Premium hatch AT	R269 900
Grand i10 1.2 Executive sedan	R279 900
Grand i10 1.2 Executive sedan AT	R309 900

The prices above (correct in July 2024) include a 5-year/150 000 km vehicle warranty, a 7-year/200 000 km powertrain warranty and a 1-year/15 000 km service plan.

Subaru SA eyes rugged ‘Wilderness’ models

Though Subaru’s Wilderness derivatives are currently exclusive to North America, the brand’s local division is campaigning to offer these off-road variants in South Africa…

While Subaru offers special Wilderness versions of its Crosstrek, Forester and Outback in North America, these extra-rugged derivatives are currently exclusive to that market. However, the Japanese firm’s local division says it’s working on changing this, with a view to eventually bringing such models to South Africa, too.

“The Wilderness models are exclusively for the North American market. We are trying to convince Subaru [headquarters in Japan] to change this due to the number of requests we have received for these models,” Subaru Southern Africa told Cars.co.za.

Judging by local trademark filings over the past few years, the Tokyo-based firm’s bosses certainly seem amenable to the idea. Indeed, Subaru applied to trademark the Wilderness logo (pictured above) in South Africa as long ago as February 2021, with an official registration taking place in June 2024.

In June 2024, Subaru’s global headquarters also made applications to trademark the “Wilderness”, “Subaru Wilderness” and “Outback Wilderness” nameplates here in Mzansi, with the status of each filing currently listed as pending.

While Subaru Southern Africa’s volumes are nowhere near significant enough to convince the company’s headquarters to take such a step, there’s handily some support from other right-hand-drive markets. For instance, according to CarExpert, the Japanese automaker’s division in Australia – where Subaru is a regular top-10 brand – is likewise “working towards” launching these rugged derivatives.

According to Subaru, Wilderness models are “specifically engineered for off-road exploring”, boasting tweaked suspension, added ground clearance, all-terrain tyres, revised gear ratios and model-specific exterior styling (including chunky black cladding and anodised copper accents), along with a smattering of cabin updates.

Such variants also score upgraded roof rails (with a higher load capacity) as well as redesigned bumpers with improved approach and departure angles. Of course, all Wilderness-badged derivatives furthermore feature Subaru’s standard symmetrical all-wheel drive, along with an enhanced dual-function X-Mode multi-terrain system.

Although Wilderness models are currently built only at Subaru’s Indiana factory in the United States, should they eventually be given the green light for right-hand-drive markets such as South Africa and Australia, we’d think they’d come from the firm’s Gunma plant in Japan instead.

New Hyundai Santa Fe ‘on the back burner’ for SA

Initially expected to launch in South Africa at some point in 2024, the new Hyundai Santa Fe has now been put “on the back burner” for the local market…

Waiting patiently for the new Hyundai Santa Fe to make local landfall? Well, Hyundai Automotive South Africa has confirmed to Cars.co.za that the 5th-generation SUV has been put “on the back burner” for the local market.

Though the South Korean firm’s local distributor stopped short of ruling out the possibility of an introduction at a later date, it told us the new model was not currently “on the horizon”. We can only speculate that the boldly styled new Santa Fe would have come in at an unfeasibly high price point.

For context, the outgoing 4th-generation Santa Fe range was recently rationalised to a single derivative: the Santa Fe 2.2D 4WD Elite for R1 094 500. That’s not far behind the respective flagship versions of the Palisade (R1 204 500) and the Staria (R1 263 900).

In addition, it’s perhaps worth noting that the new version of the SUV is not produced in turbodiesel guise, instead being available in overseas markets only in various petrol and petrol-hybrid forms. Considering the 4th-gen Santa Fe was offered in Mzansi exclusively with an oil-burning motor, this too may have played a role.

In 2023, Hyundai sold 177 examples of the Santa Fe in South Africa, with a high of 30 units in July of that year. Meanwhile, over the opening 7 months of 2024, just 51 units have been registered, with the SUV breaking into double figures only twice. We suspect local stock has started to run dry, with Hyundai selling just 5 units in June and 5 in July 2024.

It’s furthermore worth keeping in mind that as Hyundai Automotive SA bids to regain 4th position in the local sales rankings (year to date, it’s in 5th, behind Ford), the company has seemingly placed a renewed emphasis on the lower end of the market, having recently cut pricing for the Grand i10, i20 hatchback and Venue. In addition, the new Exter – which is poised to play the role of “most-affordable crossover” for the brand – is scheduled to launch in September 2024.

As a reminder, Hyundai released a few images of the new Santa Fe back in July 2023, before revealing more details the following month. Having undergone what the manufacturer describes as a “radical transformation”, the new Santa Fe looks nothing like its predecessor.

Interestingly, Hyundai claims the newcomer’s identity is closely linked to its tailgate area, which is no longer merely a “storage space” but has now become “an open terrace that can be used to effortlessly enjoy the outdoors”. Indeed, the foldable 2nd- and 3rd-row seats create what Hyundai dubs a “terrace-like” space at the rear with the wider tailgate open.

From nose to tail, the fresh-faced Santa Fe is some 45 mm longer than its forebear, now measuring 4 830 mm long and 1 900 mm wide, while standing 1 720 mm tall. There’s an extra 50 mm between the axles, too, taking the wheelbase to 2 815 mm and allowing the new 7-seater model (though some markets will also feature a 6-seater) to offer what Hyundai calls “enhanced” 3rd-row seating.

The tailgate opening is a considerable 145 mm wider than before at 1 275 mm, while the luggage compartment has gained 91 litres of space (now set at a “class-leading” 725 litres; we’re guessing this is with the 3rd row folded flat). Legroom in the 2nd row has increased by 35 mm to 1 075 mm, with occupants of the 3rd row furthermore gaining an extra 15 mm in this area (and an additional 69 mm of headroom), according to Hyundai.

GAC GS3 Emzoom (2024) Price & Specs

GAC Motor is the latest Chinese automotive brand to enter the South African new-vehicle market in 2024 and its debut model is the arrestingly styled GS3 Emzoom compact family car.

How much does the GAC GS3 Emzoom cost in SA?

Related content:

BMW M5 Touring unleashed!

The 535 kW BMW M5 Touring has just been revealed, adding a station wagon body style to the family. Here’s your first look.

Further Reading

New 5-door Mahindra Thar Roxx revealed

Meet the new Mahindra Thar Roxx, which debuts with 5 doors and a choice of petrol and diesel engines. So, will this compact Wrangler-like off-roader come to SA?

Related content

Volkswagen ID.4 (2024) Video Review

The all-electric Volkswagen ID.4 will be officially available to customers from 2025. We’ve had a first taste of what you can expect.

Related Content

Mercedes-Benz eSprinter (2024) Price & Specs

The fully electric Mercedes-Benz eSprinter has officially launched in South Africa, arriving as the country’s most expensive panel van. Here’s how much it costs…

How much does the Mercedes-Benz eSprinter cost in SA?

Related content

GWM P-Series P500 (2024) Price & Specs

The new GWM P-Series P500 – which debuts a fresh 2.4-litre turbodiesel engine and is also offered in 255 kW hybrid form – has officially launched in South Africa!

How much does the new GWM P-Series P500 cost in SA?

Related content

GWM Tank 500 (2024) Price & Specs

The GWM Tank 500 has officially launched in SA – offered exclusively in hybrid form and with 7 seats – as the Chinese firm’s first model priced on the far side of R1 million…

How much does the GWM Tank 500 cost in South Africa?

Related content

Hyundai Grand i10 (2024) Price & Specs

Hyundai Automotive SA recently tweaked its facelifted Hyundai Grand i10 range, which now features a trimmed line-up and renamed trim grades. Herewith pricing and spec details for the hatchback and sedan variants of Hyundai SA’s best-selling vehicle…

What does the facelifted Hyundai Grand i10 offer?

How much does the facelifted Hyundai Grand i10 cost in SA?

Related content

Subaru SA eyes rugged ‘Wilderness’ models

Though Subaru’s Wilderness derivatives are currently exclusive to North America, the brand’s local division is campaigning to offer these off-road variants in South Africa…

Related content

New Hyundai Santa Fe ‘on the back burner’ for SA

Initially expected to launch in South Africa at some point in 2024, the new Hyundai Santa Fe has now been put “on the back burner” for the local market…

Related content