The Abarth brand is back in South Africa, thanks to the arrival of the Abarth 695 Competizione. Here’s how much you’ll pay for this feisty little hatch (or cabriolet)…
For a moment there, it seemed Stellantis brand Abarth had quietly quit South Africa. But rumours of its local death were seemingly greatly exaggerated, with the 695 Competizione having now made landfall.
Yes, thanks to the vehicle-information gurus over at duoporta.com, we know the local Abarth 695 (rather than 595) range effectively comprises 4 Competizione derivatives: a pair of hatchbacks and a pair of cabriolets. Pricing starts at R579 900 and runs through to R627 900.
All variants are powered by the Fiat-backed brand’s turbocharged 1.4-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine, which here delivers 125 kW and up to 250 Nm to the front axle via either a 5-speed manual gearbox or a automated manual transmission (for latter for an extra R18 000) with the same number of cogs.
Cabriolet and hatchback body styles are on offer.
The obligatory 0-100 kph sprint takes a claimed 7.3 seconds in the manual version and a tenth of a second longer in the automated-manual model, while top speed is listed as 218 kph in both cases. For the record, the latter derivative can be optionally equipped (for an additional R2 000) with paddle shifters.
Meanwhile, the 3-door 695 Competizione’s specification highlights include items such as 17-inch alloy wheels, quad tailpipes, rear parking sensors, tyre-pressure monitoring, a cloth/suede upholstery combination and as many as 7 airbags.
As a reminder, the Abarth 695 is based on the Fiat 500 but scores all manner of go-faster bits. The range was last updated in October 2021, before briefly disappearing from Fiat SA’s website earlier this year.
We’ll update this story once more details around local specifications are revealed…
How much does the Abarth 695 Competizione cost in SA?
Abarth 695 Competizione 1.4T – R579 900
Abarth 695 Competizione 1.4T auto – R597 900
Abarth 695 Competizione 1.4T cabriolet – R609 900
Abarth 695 Competizione 1.4T cabriolet auto – R627 900
A 3-year/100 000 km warranty and a 3-year/60 000 km service plan are included in the purchase price.
Mercedes-Benz V-Class Special Edition (2023) Price & Specs
The new flagship van from Mercedes-Benz South Africa is about to hit showrooms. Here’s all you need to know about the Mercedes-Benz V-Class Special Edition.
If you wanting the most luxurious people carrier in South Africa, you should have the Mercedes-Benz V-Class right at the top of your list. It features luxury seating for 6, with the option for 7 and 8, depending on derivative. All are powered by 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel engines in various states of tune.
As the current generation makes way for the facelift model (teased in May 2023), Mercedes-Benz South Africa has announced the V-Class Special Edition.
The key differences between the standard V-Class and the V-Class Special Edition are to be found in the visual department. It gains the AMG bumper with chrome elements replaced by a gloss black finish, 19-inch AMG light-alloy wheels finished in black, gloss black exterior mirrors, black roof rail, LED Intelligent light system with black detailing and the chrome belt-line has been replaced by a black anodized strip.
AMG Roof Box is one of the coolest accessories!
The V-Class Special Edition gains a unique colour too, called Sodalite Blue, which you can see here. The biggest talking point is arguably the AMG Roof box. It’s not just any roof box, but rather one specifically designed by AMG and it features trick aerodynamics to help it slip through the air a bit easier. It’s important to note the AMG Roof box has a speed rating of 130 kph.
Mechanically, there are no changes to the engine line-up and the V-Class special edition adds onto the V300d. Under the bonnet is a 2.0 4-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine with 174 kW and 550 Nm, paired to a 9-speed automatic transmission. Mercedes-Benz claims a 0-100 kph in just 7.8 seconds and is said to consume 8.0 L/100 km.
The V-Class Special Edition is one very comprehensive package when it comes to features. Under the skin, the Agility Control Suspension replaces the sports suspension and the selective dampers help with driving comfort. There are stowage nets behind the front two seats, two individual captain’s chairs for the second row and a 3-seat bench for the third row. All seats are finished in black Nappa leather.
Luxury features include heated seats, Burmester surround sound system, MBUX infotainment with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, panoramic sliding roof, 360 degree camera, powered tailgate, deployable table, and even cupholders that will keep your drinks warm or chill them.
How much does the Mercedes-Benz V-Class Special Edition cost in South Africa
Mercedes-Benz V-Class Special Edition V300d R2 190 000 (Including VAT)
The above price includes a 7-year / 140 000 km Premium Drive plan and all accessories.
Here’s How Many EVs and Hybrids Were Sold in SA in Q1 2023
Wondering exactly how many EVs and hybrids were registered in South Africa in the opening quarter of 2023? Well, we have the sales figures…
The opening quarter of 2023 has come and gone, which had us wondering: exactly how many electric vehicles (EVs), traditional hybrids and plug-in hybrids were sold in South Africa over this 3-month reporting period?
Well, thanks to the release of Naamsa’s quarterly review of business conditions for South Africa’s motor-vehicle manufacturing industry, we have the answer.
First, let’s remind you of 2022’s efforts in this section of the local market. Last year, overall new-energy vehicle (NEV) sales – so, registrations comprising EVs, traditional hybrids and plug-in hybrids – reflected a whopping year-on-year increase of 431.7% from 896 units in 2021 to 4 674 units in 2022. Note, of course, this tally comprised just 0.88% of SA’s total new-vehicle sales for the year.
During the 1st quarter of 2023, NEV sales by 14 automotive brands increased by 18.8% year on year, growing from 1 401 units in the opening quarter of 2022 to 1 665units in the same period in 2023. By our maths, that translates to 1.96% of the industry total (84 774 units) for the first 3 months of 2023.
As you might have guessed, traditional hybrids made up the bulk of that figure (nearly 85%, in fact), with 1 408 units registered locally from the start of January to the end of March 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.
Hybrid versions of Toyota’s Corolla Cross (seen here in GR Sport trim) likely drove much of the volume.
Fully electric cars, meanwhile, accounted for 232 units in the opening quarter, more than double the figure achieved in the corresponding period in 2022. Right now, the least-expensive EV in the country is the Mini Cooper SE Hatch 3-door (R742 102), while the likes of Volvo, BMW and Mercedes-Benz offer various battery-powered models below the R1.5-million mark. The upcoming GWM Ora, however, looks set to be priced from R716 900.
Finally, just 25 units of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) were sold in South Africa in Q1 2023, down from 32 in the same period in 2022. Examples of such vehicles include T8 versions of Volvo’s XC60 and XC90, along with BMW’s X5 xDrive45e and P300e and P400e derivatives in Jaguar Land Rover’s line-up. From what we understand, mild-hybrid powertrains are not included in the Naamsa’s broader NEV figures.
So, why haven’t NEVs really taken off in South Africa? Well, there are many possible reasons, though Naamsa says the “high upfront purchasing cost” (linked to higher production costs, mainly related to battery production) has been the “main inhibitor” to increased NEV uptake in South Africa.
Naamsa says this is “exacerbated by the effects” of the value-added tax (VAT), the ad valorem excise duty based on a sliding scale up to 30%, and the import tariff, not to mention “limited product availability” and “awareness issues emanating from range anxiety, security of electricity supply and a limited understanding of the technology”.
The German carmaker has wowed the crowds at the annual Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este with the BMW Touring Coupe Concept.
The BMW Touring Coupe Concept is the latest concept vehicle to make an appearance at the Italian classic car event. The German carmaker has a reputation for using this event to showcase its creations over the years and 2023 is no different.
This is the BMW Touring Coupe Concept, essentially a highly modified Z4 M40i with a fixed metal roof. The shape will be familiar to many of the BMW fanatics, as its reminiscent of the iconic Z3 M Coupe, nicknamed the ‘clown shoe.’ Right now, its a one-off creation, but BMW hasn’t ruled out production.
Could it make production for those who want to buy it?
BMW Group Design Director Adrian van Hooydonk said that “at least two to three people” expressed interest in the newcomer. “[The Concept Touring Coupe] is a one-off at the moment,” van Hooydonk said. “Right? And there’s no concrete plans to put it in production. But, we made the agreement before we set sail for Lake Como that, if there’s enough interest, we will take a look at it. That could be a very low-volume version, like 50 cars or so.” he told media at the event.
To convert a standard Z4 M40i to this striking concept, the electrically folding fabric roof has been removed to make space for the hard coupe roof. The paint is a unique creation called Sparkling Lario and features flakes of blue glass. Also noteworthy are the massive wheels, which are 21-inch units at the back and 20-inch alloys at the front.
Inside, the cabin is largely the same as the standard BMW Z4, but the upholstery has been sourced from Italian leather specialists Poltrona Frau and has a two-tone finish. The attention to detail is impressive for a one-off creation as the car’s entertainment system features an accurate depiction of the vehicle.
Let’s hope BMW builds a few as its one of the more striking and interesting designs to come from the brand of late.
Car insurance serves to provide you with financial cover if your car gets stolen or hijacked, but what steps should you follow after suffering such a loss? Here’s a step-by-step guide, plus tips to reduce your likelihood of becoming a victim of car theft.
PARTNERED CONTENT
My car has been stolen! Now what?
Many people become panicked and flustered when their car is stolen or hijacked, but it is, unfortunately, an all too regular occurrence in motoring life. Take a deep breath and follow these recommendations:
1. Contact your vehicle tracking company. If your car was bought through a vehicle finance agreement, many vehicles must have an anti-theft vehicle tracking device to qualify for car insurance.
2. File a police report. Remember that you must provide specific information, including the number of your driver’s license, vehicle registration details, the make, model and colour of your car, as well as the vehicle’s identification number (VIN). The best advice is to keep all this information in a safe place so you can easily retrieve all of it in case of an emergency, such as a car accident or vehicle theft/hijacking.
3. Notify your insurer. Once you’ve filed the police report, you must contact your car insurance company. The firm’s consultant will also require details from you, including the relevant police case number and ask for details such as where the car was parked/located and when it was stolen/hijacked.
4. Investigation. Once all the reports have been processed, the police and insurance company will investigate.
5. File a car insurance claim. You can file a theft-related car insurance claim if your vehicle is not recovered within the allocated time. Depending on your policy, your insurer will cover the trade, retail or replacement value of your stolen vehicle (if you own it outright) or settle your car-finance agreement based on the value of your car and pay the remainder of the claim into a designated bank account.
6. Excess and cover limits. Please note that you may be responsible for paying an excess before your insurer will pay out your claim. More: Car Insurance Tips: The Excess & Deductibles
The sum that your car insurance company will pay out for a theft-related claim will depend on the value of your unrecovered vehicle (as stipulated in your policy) and your excess.
Therefore, be sure to read your car insurance policy thoroughly and speak to your consultant, if necessary, to understand your coverage and any potential payouts in the event of a theft.
The likely insurance payout for a stolen car will also depend on the type of car insurance policy you have. Comprehensive- and 3rd-Party, Fire and Theft car insurance cover theft, but 3rd-Party Only does not.
If your car is not recovered, your insurer will pay you out the stipulated value of your vehicle, minus the excess. The actual cash value is usually the market value of your vehicle when it was stolen. That value is based on factors such as the car’s age, its general condition and mileage at the time it was lost.
A new car will, for instance, receive a much higher payout than an older car. The excess refers to the amount you must pay out-of-pocket before your car insurance will pay out a claim.
Car theft remains a major worry for South African motorists and, therefore, the short-term insurance industry. There isn’t a quick fix for this problem, but being vigilant and implementing added security measures are probably the best ways to keep thieves at bay – the more deterrent there are, the better.
Following some of these safety tips and precautions can help deter car thieves:
Be aware of your surroundings. If you notice any suspicious activity or behaviour, leave the area immediately
Park in safe, well-lit areas that preferably have on-site security. Avoid parking in secluded places, even if you are in a bit of a rush
Don’t leave valuables in your vehicle. Laptops, phones or bags left in plain sight could be a target for thieves who make break your window to get in. If you must leave valuables in your vehicle, ensure they are stowed away from sight or locked in the boot/load bay
Invest in anti-theft devices, such as an alarm system, gear lock or immobiliser
Install a vehicle tracking system
Keep your keys secure. Don’t leave your keys in an easily accessible location
Repair broken windows or locks as soon as possible
Check that your car is locked. Be mindful of remote jamming, especially at busy malls and shopping centres
Make sure your vehicle’s doors are locked while you are driving it
Ensure your insurance policy is up to date
Do you want to learn more about car insurance or review your car-insurance requirements with the help of experts? Budget Insurance’s team is always ready to assist; contact them on 086 1600 120 or utilise their online car insurance calculator, which gives you an accurate and budget-friendly quote in minutes.
Better late than never, right? It seems the Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 has finally – and rather quietly – arrived in South Africa, though just 35 units are available…
When the Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 4Matic was revealed back in 2019, the German firm’s local division suggested there were no plans to bring the 225 kW crossover to South Africa. Then, in 2022, Mercedes-Benz SA hinted at a “special limited-edition” GLB 35 for the local market.
Now, finally, that vehicle appears to have materialised. According to Mercedes-Benz SA’s website, just 35 units of the GLB 35 are available to local buyers, sold exclusively through the Stuttgart-based automaker’s online store (note there’s a refundable R10 000 “reservation fee”).
The main image on the Mercedes-Benz SA website shows the facelifted Mercedes-AMG GLB 35.
Here’s where it becomes a little confusing, though. The main image on the website shows the recently facelifted version of the GLB 35, while every example listed in the online store appears to be a pre-facelift model. So, it’s not exactly clear which version South Africa has received.
Still, from what we can tell, the base price is R1 404 350, a figure that includes the manufacturer’s 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan (for the record, the 165 kW GLB 250 starts at R1 050 287 in AMG Line guise). At the time of writing, all 35 units of the Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 were still listed in Mercedes-Benz SA’s online store, though some are tagged with an “estimated arrival” of May or June, while the remainder were shown as being “available”.
The examples on the Mercedes-Benz SA online store all appear to be pre-facelift models.
They all appear similarly specified (though it’s not clear whether the 7-seater box has been ticked), listed at either R1 425 723 or R1 443 023, with only Mountain Grey Metallic, Patagonia Red Metallic and Digital White Metallic exterior colours on offer. From what we understand, all units feature 21-inch AMG Multispoke matte-black alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof and AMG red-contrast stitching.
As a reminder, the Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 employs a turbocharged 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder engine delivering 225 kW and 400 Nm to all 4 corners via an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission. The pre-facelift version will complete the 0-100 kph sprint in a claimed 5.2 seconds, while the refreshed model – which gains a mild-hybrid system – is a touch slower at a claimed 5.5 seconds (likely due to the extra weight).
We’ll update this story if any additional local information comes to light…
How much does the Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 cost in SA?
Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 4Matic – R1 404 350
The price shown above includes a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan as well as Mercedes-Benz SA’s 2-year/unlimited kilometre warranty.
The ultimate Hillclimb Monster? Scribante’s wildly modified GT-R wins again at Simola 2023
We take a closer at the monstrous Scribante GT-R that recently took a class victory at the 2023 Simola Hillclimb!
Now sporting military green livery, the Scribante GT-R gained notoriety around the world, especially for its wild aero set-up.
The car and driver have been successful at the annual Simola Hillclimb three times now, taking a dramatic win in the Super Saloon class at the 2023 event held recently in Knysna, South Africa.
An absolute crowd-pleaser, we spend time with the Scribante team and take a deep dive into what makes this machine so special.
Mercedes-Benz has teased the updated V-Class which will benefit from visual and tech enhancements. The updates will also extend to the Vito, eVito and EQV models. Here’s what you can expect!
The luxurious Mercedes-Benz V-Class will soon receive an update which will include exterior styling tweaks and interior upgrades. Looking at the single teaser image, the front-end styling execution is fairly significant with a much larger grille, revised air intakes and newly-shaped LED headlights.
While the interior changes have yet to be revealed, previous reports suggest that the updated V-Class will gain a new digital cockpit with dual displays under a single glass panel, much like we’re accustomed to in Merc’s latest passenger vehicles. The V-Class will also gain the latest MBUX infotainment system. Further details will be revealed in the coming weeks.
This particular update is expected to be the last for Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) derivatives of the V-Class and Vito as Mercedes-Benz Vans progresses towards an all-electric future following the announcement of its all-new Van Electric Architecture (VAN.EA) platform which will be solely dedicated to producing all-electric mid-size passenger/camper vans and large commercial vans. The first EV model based on this new platform is expected in 2026.
The new VAN.EA platform will spawn a variety of new electric vans as of 2026.
The VAN.EA platform features a standardised front module, scalable centre module and a rear module with or without an electric motor for all-wheel-drive or front-wheel drive derivatives.
VAN.EA comprises the VAN.EA-P platform which will cater for midsize private luxury vans to be used as VIP shuttles, mobile offices and family leisure vehicles and with electric range expected at over 500km.
On the commercial side, the VAN.EA-C platform will cater for midsize to large commercial vehicles with numerous configurations expected to serve various commercial sectors. These new generation of electric vans will be produced in Jawor, Poland, Düsseldorf, Germany and in Vitoria, Spain.
The new Mercedes-Benz GLC has arrived in South Africa! Here’s how much the 2nd-gen compact luxury crossover will cost you…
The new Mercedes-Benz GLC was revealed back in June 2022 and has just hit the market in South Africa. Let’s take a look at pricing for the 2nd-generation compact luxury crossover.
According to the Stuttgart-based firm’s local division, a trio of powertrain derivatives – all boasting a 9-speed automatic transmission and 4Matic all-wheel-drive system as standard – is again available in South Africa, though each has gained a mild-hybrid system (comprising a starter-generator and 48-volt onboard power supply). For now, at least, it seems the plug-in hybrid versions offered in Europe are off the table for South Africa, even though the fully electric EQC is marketed here.
So, the X254-generation line-up kicks off with the GLC220d 4Matic, which now starts at R1 211 220. Here, the 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine sends 145 kW and 440 Nm to all 4 corners, while the mild-hybrid system is capable of adding 17 kW and 200 Nm for brief periods of “boost”. The 0-100 kph sprint takes a claimed 8.0 seconds.
Next up is the GLC300 4Matic. Peak outputs for this turbocharged 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol mill stand at 190 kW and 400 Nm, with the mild-hybrid gubbins again temporarily bringing 17 kW and 200 Nm to the power-and-torque party. The all-paw GLC300 will reach 3 figures in a claimed 6.2 seconds and is priced at R1 328 500 (a figure interestingly listed as excluding CO2 tax).
Measuring 4 716 mm from bow to stern, the new GLC is 60 mm longer than its predecessor.
Finally, we have the flagship oil-burner, the GLC300d 4Matic. Priced from R1 410 194, this derivative employs a 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel unit worth a heady 198 kW and 550 Nm, again briefly supplemented by the 17 kW/200 Nm mild-hybrid arrangement. Expect the obligatory dash from standstill to 100 kph to take around 6.3 seconds.
Each of the 3 powertrain variants will be available in either the standard Avantgarde model line or specified with the R82 593 AMG Line package. There’s a wide selection of alloy wheels on offer (measuring up to 20 inches in diameter), along with numerous interior upholstery and trim options, plus other individual extras, such as a panoramic sliding sunroof (R29 394), a Burmester surround-sound system (R20 907) and aluminium-look running boards (R9 729).
We also noticed the presence of the “Engineering Package”, which adds rear-axle steering and air suspension for an additional R57 753. As with the new A-Class, 4 distinct equipment packages will be available for the GLC: Advanced (standard), Advanced Plus (R46 550), Premium (R87 610) and Premium Plus (R130 000). As you might have guessed, each comprises a collection of individual options, ramping up in line with pricing.
How much will the new Mercedes-Benz GLC cost in SA?
Mercedes-Benz GLC220d 4Matic – R1 211 220
Mercedes-Benz GLC300 4Matic – R1 328 500 (excluding CO2 tax)
Mercedes-Benz GLC300d 4Matic – R1 410 194
The above pricing includes a 5-year/100 000 km PremiumDrive Platinum service and maintenance plan, as well as a 2-year/unlimited km warranty.
The head of Audi Sport has dropped a sizeable hint an even more powerful RS3 is coming, saying the firm is “not finished” with its iconic 5-cylinder engine just yet…
Audi Sport managing director Sebastian Grams has suggested an even more powerful RS3 is on the horizon, saying the German automaker is “not finished” with the compact performance vehicle nor its 5-cylinder engine.
The comments point to something of a swansong for the turbocharged 2.5-litre 5-pot, since Audi plans to launch its final combustion-engined new car by 2026, before shifting completely to electric vehicles (EVs) by 2033. And it looks likely a more powerful version of this engine will be used in the RS3 rather than the TT, seeing as production of the latter is due to end in October 2023.
“We have a perfect 5-cylinder engine, which is very unique in the market. We have a 6-cylinder engine, and we will improve these technologies into the next step. I do not see a need to completely change the engines,” Grams said, according to Autocar, at an event celebrating 40 years of Audi Sport.
“Honestly, we are really happy that the customers are jumping on that car [the RS3] like hell and we are not, let’s say, ‘finished’ with the car. We have the 5-cylinder and we will definitely increase the 5-cylinder for the next step. We will improve that.
Audi is seemingly not done with its 5-cylinder engine just yet…
“There’s still a way to go. We have done the RS3 Performance Edition, which is faster, which has more performance, which has bucket seats and another calibration. You can see that we will really sharpen our products in the future,” he said.
Interestingly, the high-ranking executive suggested more power could be extracted from the 5-cylinder engine without the need for any sort of electrification. For the record, the current all-paw RS3 Sportback and RS3 Sedan boast peak outputs of 294 kW and 500 Nm, while the aforementioned RS3 Performance Edition revealed for Europe last year makes 299 kW.
Of course, the vehicle at the very top of the power tower in this segment is currently the Mercedes-AMG A45 S, which employs a turbocharged 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine sending 310 kW and 500 Nm to all 4 corners. Whether the next (and possibly final) tweak for the RS3 will take it past its Affalterbach-fettled foe remains to be seen.
Of course, the next-generation A3 is due around 2027 and is poised to completely ditch combustion engines in favour of electric motors. An earlier report suggested the S3 and RS3 badges would live on, though obviously be applied to performance EVs rather than combustion-engined models. So, this rumoured uprated RS3 is likely to be a final farewell for the 5-pot…
