Toyota SA ‘studying’ 2.8 GD-6 engine for Land Cruiser 79

The evergreen Toyota Land Cruiser 79 may well receive 4-cylinder power in South Africa by the end of 2023, as the brand’s local division is currently “studying” the introduction of the 2.8 GD-6 engine…

Toyota South Africa Motors has confirmed to Cars.co.za it is “studying” the possibility of introducing a 4-cylinder version of the Land Cruiser 79 bakkie powered by the 2.8-litre turbodiesel engine already employed by the likes of the Hilux, Fortuner and Land Cruiser Prado.

Rumours out of both Japan and Australia have suggested Toyota could soon drop its ubiquitous 2.8 GD-6 engine into the Land Cruiser 70 series. We asked the Japanese firm’s South African division whether there were any such plans for the local range.

“The Land Cruiser 70 series is still one of our best sellers – with the pick-up version averaging around 245 units a month. We are certainly studying the 2.8-litre turbodiesel for local introduction but can only confirm the results of our study towards the end of the year,” a Toyota SA Motors spokesperson told us.

*The Land Cruiser 79 may well feature 4-cylinder power by the end of 2023.*

As a reminder, the current Land Cruiser 79 line-up comprises 6 derivatives (3 single- and 3 double-cab variants), with the choice of a trio of engines. There’s the 4.0-litre V6 petrol unit (170 kW/360 Nm), the 4.2-litre straight-6 diesel motor (96 kW/285 Nm) and the 4.5-litre V8 turbodiesel mill (151 kW/430 Nm).

The 8-cylinder 4.5D-4D engine is also employed by the Land Cruiser 76 station wagon, while the 4.2-litre oil-burner powers the special-order-only Land Cruiser 78 (aka Troopy). It’s not yet clear whether the 76- and 78-badged models are also in line for 4-pot power. Regardless, it seems likely the current 70 series engines would soldier on – rather than simply fall away – alongside the 2.8 GD-6, should the latter be introduced.

In applications such as the Fortuner and Prado, the Japanese firm’s widely used 2.8 GD-6 engine generates peak outputs of 150 kW and 500 Nm, while a detuned version is reserved for the Quantum. Of course, there is also a high-output iteration, which in the Hilux GR-Sport churns out 165 kW and 550 Nm. Though figures for the Land Cruiser 70 series have yet to be confirmed, it seems likely the 4-cylinder motor would offer more torque as well as improved fuel economy when compared with the aforementioned larger-capacity (and substantially older) engines.

*In the Toyota Hilux GR Sport, the 2.8 GD-6 engine makes 165 kW and 550 Nm.*

Should Toyota SA Motors’ feasibility study have a positive outcome, we would furthermore expect the 4-cylinder version of the Land Cruiser 79 to be available locally with an automatic transmission (at present, all derivatives in the 70 series range employ a manual gearbox). After all, the 2.8 GD-6 is already offered with a 6-speed auto in various applications.

In addition, overseas reports have suggested this proposed engine update for the 70 series could be accompanied by a few minor specification changes, including a new infotainment system and perhaps a different steering wheel. It remains to be seen whether such tweaks would be on the cards for the under-study SA-spec model, too.

As a reminder, the J70-generation Land Cruiser has been in production for nearly 40 years. It’s currently the oldest “new” vehicle available in South Africa, having been sold here in its current form (more or less) for more than 2 decades.

Kia Bakkie Set for 2025! Fresh Info on New Hilux Rival

Fresh details of Kia’s upcoming ladder-frame bakkie – billed as a “genuine” rival to the likes of the Toyota Hilux and expected in 2025 – have emerged. Here’s what we know…

There’s long been talk about Kia launching a ladder-frame bakkie to take on the likes of the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger. And now, thanks to official information reportedly shared by Kia’s headquarters with select dealerships in Australia (and promptly leaked to various publications), fresh details have emerged.

When asked about the new bakkie, Kia Australia released the following statement to various publications Down Under: “Kia is currently developing a future pick-up truck model that will be highly capable and fit for purpose. Additional details will be confirmed in due course.”

So, what else do we know, based on the leak? Well, though details are still frustratingly thin on the ground, reports from Aussie publications such as CarExpert and Drive claim the new 1-tonne bakkie – which was spied wearing camouflage late in 2022 – is known internally as the “TK” series. It will apparently ride on an “all-new” body-on-frame chassis rather than adopt a unibody configuration, and be offered in both single- and double-cab body styles.

The reports say the as-yet-unnamed Kia-badged bakkie is expected to hit showrooms in that country by 2025, with development having commenced back in 2020. The South Korean firm has reportedly promised its dealers the bakkie will be a “genuine and serious rival” to the Hilux and Ranger.

*The Mohave sold in South Korea employs a 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel powerplant.*

As such, the TK series is being benchmarked against the segment’s strongest sellers and will apparently match them in terms of towing capacity and payload. So, expect a braked towing capacity of up to 3 500 kg and a load capacity of about a tonne.

What about engine options? Well, for now, all we know – based on information ostensibly shared with Aussie dealers, anyway – is the Kia bakkie will be offered with turbodiesel power. Of course, we’ve already written extensively about the powertrain options currently available to the South Korean firm, including its familiar 2.2-litre, 4-cylinder oil-burner (which makes 147 kW and 440 Nm in other applications).

There’s also a 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel unit, which powers the Mohave large SUV offered in South Korea, delivering 191 kW and 560 Nm in that domestic-market model. This engine, of course, would allow the Kia bakkie to go toe-to-toe with the 6-cylinder diesel versions of the Ranger and closely related Volkswagen Amarok.

As an aside, back in March 2022, Kia announced plans to expand its all-electric vehicle range to as many as 14 models by 2027, while also confirming 2 will take the form of battery-powered bakkies. It’s not yet clear whether the new ladder-frame bakkie will eventually also be offered in electric form as well.

Regardless, the diesel-powered version looks like an absolute no-brainer for Kia Motors South Africa, considering the fact it will indeed be built in right-hand-drive form for Australia…

Hyundai Tucson N-Line (2023) Launch Review

The Hyundai Tucson N-Line has arrived; armed with a sporty body kit and all-wheel drive, it now heads up the Tucson range. We drive the new 2.0D N-Line AT AWD.

The 25th of May 2023 was the perfect day to try out Hyundai’s new flagship Tucson derivative in the Western Cape. And why? Because a typical winter cold front had arrived in the Cape of Storms, bringing with it sheets of rain and chilly temperatures. The rainfall was – in a word – torrential, which made the roads precariously slippery. An appropriate scenario to evaluate the all-wheel-drive newcomer, then.

Until recently, if you were looking for a turbodiesel-powered family car with all-wheel drive, your choices were limited to the VW Tiguan TDI 4Motion and Mazda CX-5 2.2 Akera. Hyundai has entered the chat.

What is Hyundai Tucson N-Line?

To refresh your memory, the N-Line treatment lends a sporty look to Hyundai’s mainstream offerings. Whereas performance-focused N models (such as the Kona N and i30 N) feature an array of cosmetic and mechanical upgrades, N-Line derivatives simply gain sporty bumpers, bigger wheels and a few eye-catching cabin accents compared with their standard siblings. In this case, the new Tucson flagship features striking 19-inch wheels, prominent exhaust ends, N-Line badging and a slightly different grille.

Still, a flagship derivative should incorporate more than exterior upgrades, so Hyundai’s added a few more features and all-wheel drive to make the newcomer stand out. The South Korean brand tends to apply grade-specific interior accoutrements sparingly, yet the newcomer’s cabin is adorned with metallic pedals, sporty trim, leather-and-suede seats, an N-branded transmission lever and a powered tailgate.

The engine on duty is the 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel (the same as the one found in the second-from-the-top 2.0D Elite AT) – it has 137 kW and 416 Nm of torque on tap. The motor is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and Hyundai claims an average fuel economy figure of 6.5 L/100 km.

What features does it offer?

*The Tucson 2.0D N-Line AWD comes equipped with a comprehensive interior specification and -execution.*

As befitting the flagship derivative, the Hyundai Tucson N-Line comes comprehensively equipped. Plus, there are no optional extras at all, the list price of R799 900 is all-in. The N-Line is based on the Elite specification, so if you don’t need all-wheel drive and the sportier looks, then you could opt for that.

The list of standard features is exhaustive, but suffice it to say, most of the prerequisite luxuries (for the price), such as heated/ventilated seats, panoramic roof, heated steering wheel, wireless charging pad, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, 10.25-inch digital display, drive modes, auto lights and -wipers, are fitted.

More: Hyundai Tucson N-Line: A comprehensive look at specifications, features and pricing

What is the Tucson N-Line like to drive?

Hyundai Tucson N-Line driving — *On-road manners are good, and that diesel is a punchy and frugal unit*

To reiterate, the Tucson 2.0D N-Line AT AWD’s launch took place on Cape Town’s wettest day of 2023 (thus far). Given the slippery roads, all-wheel drive helped to keep the Hyundai planted on the asphalt. The vehicle also offers off-road modes that dynamically adjust the drivetrain for low-grip conditions.

Our launch route incorporated stretches of the national highway and urban roads, before a detour on some farm roads, which had become exceptionally muddy as a result of the persistent precipitation.

*The test unit that the author drove in, um, driving rain.*

The Tucson 2.0D N-Line AT AWD’s ride quality is generally comfortable – we’re happy to report that the fitment of sporty-looking 19-inch wheels hasn’t made the ride too fidgety. The steering setup is nicely weighted; the ‘wheel has a light and quick action, yet offers sufficient feedback for a car in this segment.

When we were driving on a wet and muddy gravel road around Botrivier, we activated the 2.0D N-Line AT AWD’s drive-mode setting for mud and, despite the appalling conditions, the Tucson made steady progress and maintained its stability/composure. In such conditions, a 2-wheel-drive Tucson derivative would most certainly have struggled for traction… So, if your lifestyle will see you driving on unsealed road surfaces regularly, you might want to dig deep for the all-paw derivative in the Tucson line-up. But don’t start planning far-flung off-road adventures, because there’s only 181 mm of ground clearance.

*Note the subtle exhausts, body-coloured wheel arches and sporty wheels*

The engine-gearbox combo is well-proven and instils confidence: the turbodiesel mill only really makes itself heard if you flatten the accelerator pedal, but there is no need to deploy more than half throttle – a swathe of torque is readily available. The 8-speed automatic does a good job of seamlessly swopping cogs and the ‘box’s shifts are well-timed. All said, the powertrain feels stronger than its outputs suggest.

The best part? Despite some spirited driving (we’re motoring journalists!) we finished our test route with an indicated fuel economy figure of 6.7 L/100 km. And we utilised the default drive mode; if we selected Eco mode and employed a more measured driving style, we would have achieved an even lower figure.

How much does the Hyundai Tucson cost in SA?

The Hyundai Tucson is sold with a 5-year/150 000 km vehicle warranty, 7-year/200 000 km drivetrain warranty and a 6-year/90 000 km service plan.

Tucson 2.0 Premium AT	R561 900
Tucson 2.0 Executive AT	R613 900
Tucson 2.0 Elite AT	R683 900
Tucson 2.0D Elite AT	R749 900
Tucson 2.0D N-Line AT AWD	R799 900

Summary

The Hyundai Tucson has needed a flagship derivative since the current-gen model was launched in Mzansi in March 2022… and this sporty-looking all-wheel N-Line certainly ticks the proverbial boxes. Not only does the 2.0D N-Line AT AWD look the part – it’s also notably capable thanks to its clever all-paw system. Plus, it comes packed with tech, both in terms of convenience and semi-autonomous safety.

Should you buy one? The newcomer is a tempting prospect, if only for its impressive kerb presence, because all-wheel drive is not a must-have for family-car buyers. Nonetheless, the Hyundai Tucson range offers both petrol and diesel engines, as well as various levels of trim to satisfy most needs.

Search for a used Hyundai Tucson on Cars.co.za

7-Way Bakkie Drag Race (2023)

Cars.co.za recently executed yet another mega bakkie drag race, this time featuring a number of new (and older) double-cab bakkies on offer in South Africa. Which one of these bakkies will cross the finish line first? Watch the video!

In case you haven’t noticed, we like drag racing all sorts of cars at Cars.co.za and our latest drag race pits no less than 7 double-cab bakkies against each other to find out what bakkie is the fastest on a runway outside of Cape Town.

For this drag race, we brought a number of new (and older) bakkies together and as you might expect, the results from this test might surprise you! This video proves that higher power and torque don’t guarantee victory on the drag strip!

The double-cab bakkies on test here include the new Ford Ranger 2.0 BiTurbo XLT 4×4, Volkswagen Amarok 2.0BiTDI Style 4Motion, Toyota Hilux 2.8GD-6 Legend RS 4×4, Mitsubishi Triton 2.4DI-D 4×4 Xtreme, Isuzu D-Max 3.0TD LSE 4×4, Nissan Navara 2.5DDTi Pro-4X 4×4 and the recently introduced GWM P-Series 2.0 LTD 4×4.

Here are the vital figures that will help you predict the outcome of the big bakkie drag race.

Place your bets!

Model	Power	Torque	Transmission	Kerb Weight
Ford Ranger 2.0 BiTurbo XLT 4×4	154 kW	500 Nm	10-speed automatic	2 284 kg
Volkswagen Amarok 2.0BiTDI Style 4Motion	154 kW	500 Nm	10-speed automatic	2 132 kg
Toyota Hilux 2.8GD-6 Legend RS 4×4	150 kW	500 Nm	6-speed automatic	2 029 kg
Mitsubishi Triton 2.4DI-D 4×4 Xtreme	133 kW	430 Nm	6-speed automatic	1 950 kg
Isuzu D-Max 3.0TD LSE 4×4	140 kW	450 Nm	6-speed automatic	2 045 kg
Nissan Navara 2.5DDTi Pro-4X 4×4	140 kW	450 Nm	7-speed automatic	2 023 kg
GWM P-Series 2.0 LTD 4×4	120 kW	400 Nm	8-speed automatic	2 100 kg

Buy a Double Cab Bakkie on Cars.co.za

New Citroen C3 (2023) Price and Specs

The new Citroen C3 hatchback has arrived in South Africa and it will appeal to first-time car buyers! Take a look at what you can expect in terms of specification and pricing!

A new Citroen C3 hatchback has made landfall in South Africa! The new C3 recently scooped the 2023 World Urban Car Award and the newcomer is here to woo first-time car buyers with its stylish exterior design and smartly executed interior.

This new C3, which is produced in India, measures 3 980 mm long, 1 730 mm wide, 1 600 mm high and with a wheelbase of 2 540 mm. Ground clearance for the new C3 is 200 mm with a claimed load capacity of 315 litres. The new Citroen C3 rivals other hatchbacks such as the Suzuki Swift and Volkswagen Polo Vivo.

Clean and quirky might be a good way of describing the exterior design execution and while the C3 is considered to be a hatchback, it does feature some generous plastic cladding and a raised stance to give it a more rugged and compact SUV-like character.

For added personalisation, Citroen is also offering 2 optional accessory packs. The Elegance Pack (R2 200) offers details such as chrome door handles, chrome bumper finisher, chrome detailing for the taillights, chrome indicator bezel, chrome surround for the reflector, chrome fog light surround and a chrome insert in the side body moulding. Alternatively, you can opt for the Energy Pack (R2 700) which adds a sportier touch with a rear roof-mounted spoiler and a rear skid plate. In addition to this, buyers can also purchase optional 15-inch Octo alloy wheels or alloy wheel hub caps for an additional R8 300.

The Citroen C3 can be had in 4 Monotone colours (White, Zesty Orange, Platinum Grey, Steel Grey) and 6 dual tone colours offering a roof and body colour mix of the aforementioned colours.

What engine powers the Citroen C3 in South Africa?

A single engine option is offered in South Africa in the form of a 3-cylinder, 1.2-litre petrol engine with 61 kW and 115 Nm of torque and exclusively mated with a 5-speed manual transmission. An automatic derivative as well as another engine option are expected to join the range in 2024. Citroen claims an average fuel consumption figure of 5.6 L/100km.

New Citroen C3 — *Fashion-conscious, first-time car buyers are in for a treat with the new C3!*

Moving inside, the interior boasts features such as a large 10-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android capability, a multifunction steering wheel, 3 USB ports (1 front, 2 rear), height adjustable driver’s seat, electric windows, keyless entry and automatic door locking while driving.

In terms of safety, dual airbags are standard as is ABS with EBD and rear park distance control.

We will have the Citroen C3 on test after its official launch so look out for our evaluation in the near future.

What’s the price of the new Citroen C3 in South Africa?

Citroen C3 1.2 Feel 61 kW 5MT – R229 900

The Citroen C3 is sold with a 5-year/100 000km warranty and a 2-year/30 000 km service plan.

Buy a Citroen C3 on Cars.co.za

Hyundai Tucson N Line in SA (2023) Price and Specs

***A new Hyundai Tucson N Line flagship derivative has arrived in* *South Africa! Take a look at specification and pricing details below***…

Hyundai Automotive South Africa has introduced a new Tucson N Line flagship to its local range.

As a reminder, the “N Line” badge denotes what the Korean firm describes as “sporty and distinctive exterior design features and differentiating interior details”, rather than powertrain and other mechanical performance upgrades (which are the preserve of full-fat N products, such as the i30 N and Kona N). So, it’s really all about performance-inspired styling.

The N Line version of the 4th-generation Tucson was first shown in Europe in 2021. For the record, there was also an N Line model in the previous generation, launched on the Old Continent in 2019, but this didn’t ever make it to local shores (SA did, however, have the Tucson Sport).

*The Tucson N-Line gains several visual enhancements that make it stand out from the crowd.*

While the Tucson N Line offered in Europe is available with a range of conventional hybrid, mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, the SA-spec model employs a 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine offering 137 kW and 416 Nm, with drive sent to all 4 wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission. That means the newcomer is the only AWD variant in the local Tucson line-up.

How does the Tucson N-Line differ from a standard Tucson?

So, how does Hyundai visually differentiate the N Line from the already boldly styled standard Tucson? Well, the parametric jewel patterns on the grille are more elaborate, while the grille gains an obligatory “N Line” badge. The front bumper takes on a more rectangular shape and scores a larger, redesigned air intake, and the headlamps are framed by black bezels.

Round back, the N Line is fitted with a longer rear spoiler (complete with stabilising fins) as well as a rear diffuser and a twin-exit tailpipe. Furthermore, this model rides on eye-catching 19-inch alloy wheels as standard.

*Note the N branding on the sports seats.*

Inside, you’ll find N-branded sports seats trimmed in black suede and leather, as well as red stitching. The latter is furthermore woven on the door trim and armrest, while the facia scores matching red accents. There’s also a new N steering wheel, a black headliner and a metal finish for the pedals, foot rest and side sills.

As a reminder, the NX4-generation Tucson was revealed late in 2020, before launching in South Africa in March 2022. The local line-up now comprises 4 front-driven derivatives, with pricing bookends of R561 900 and R749 900, while the N Line is the only all-paw variant on offer, priced at R799 900.

How much does the Hyundai Tucson Cost in South Africa?

Hyundai Tucson 2.0 Premium AT – R561 900

Hyundai Tucson 2.0 Executive AT – R613 900

Hyundai Tucson 2.0 Elite AT – R683 900

Hyundai Tucson 2.0D Elite AT – R749 900

Hyundai Tucson 2.0D N Line AT AWD – R799 900

The Hyundai Tucson is sold with a 5-year/150 000 km vehicle warranty, 7-year / 200 000km drivetrain warranty and a 6-year/90 000 km service plan.

Buy a used Hyundai Tucson on Cars.co.za!

New Aston Martin DB12 Debuts With 500 kW

The new Aston Martin DB12 has been revealed! Though it seemingly ditches the V12 that was available in the DB11, the newcomer still boasts a whopping 500 kW…

Meet the new Aston Martin DB12, a grand tourer the Gaydon-based automaker promises will deliver “a quantum shift” in character and dynamic ability compared with the DB11 it replaces. In fact, the British firm describes the newcomer as the “world’s first super tourer”, insisting the traditional “grand tourer” label is simply not sufficient.

Arriving as Aston Martin celebrates both its 110th anniversary as well as 75 years of the DB model line, the new DB12 seemingly ditches the turbocharged 5.2-litre V12 petrol engine that was available in the DB11, instead employing a seriously uprated version of the twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 motor still sourced from Mercedes-AMG but “tuned by Aston Martin engineers”.

As a result, the fresh-faced DB12 boasts peak outputs as lofty as 500 kW and 800 Nm, along with a top speed of 325 kph. Aston Martin claims the newcomer will complete the 0-100 kph sprint in 3.6 seconds. Power is fed through a ZF-sourced 8-speed automatic transmission (with a shortened final drive ratio of 3.083:1, plus a unique shift calibration) and an electronic rear differential, with the latter linked to the vehicle’s electronic stability control system. In addition to a new multi-mode stability programme, the DB12 features 5 pre-defined drive settings.

*The new Aston Martin DB12 cabin features a mix of digital and analogue controls.*

According to the British manufacturer, the V8 powerplant’s higher outputs were achieved through modified cam profiles, optimised compression ratios, larger-diameter turbochargers and increased cooling (the latter including an additional pair of auxiliary coolers added to the central main radiator). In addition, the auxiliary outboard engine oil cooler boasts more than double the face area of that of its predecessor.

Other under-the-skin highlights include intelligent adaptive dampers, stiffer anti-roll bars, revised electronic power-assisted steering and a braking system comprising 400 mm cast-iron front discs and 360 mm rear discs with grooved and drilled faces. In addition, the new DB12 can be specified with a carbon-ceramic brake package that offers improved braking performance and reduced brake fade, along with an unsprung mass saving of 27 kg.

To complement the 6 mm-wider track up front and 22 mm-wider track at the rear, there are 3 designs from which to choose when it comes to the lightweight 21-inch forged alloy wheels (9.5J fore and 10.5J aft), though each includes bespoke Michelin Pilot Sport 5 S tyres (275/35 R21 103Y front and 315/30 R21 108Y rear) as standard. The new tyres also feature noise-cancelling polyurethane foam inserts to improve rolling refinement.

Aston Martin bills the DB12 interior as “completely redesigned”, with “clean horizontal lines” and an all-new infotainment system (the marque’s first in-house set-up, run through a pair of 10.25-inch displays) along with a surround-sound system from Bowers & Wilkins. The cabin features modern display screens and more traditional analogue switches, along with swathes of hand-stitched leather, as you’d expect.

Initial deliveries of the new Aston Martin DB12 are scheduled to begin in the 3rd quarter of 2023.

Buy an Aston Martin DB11 on Cars.co.za!

2024 BMW 5 Series Revealed

The 2024 BMW 5 Series has been revealed and the good news is that the fresh-faced sedan will be landing in South African showrooms before the end of 2023…

Despite BMW’s SUV range broadly outselling its sedan line-up these days, the German carmaker is well aware there remains a customer base that will always choose a sleek saloon over a high-riding SUV. As such, the brand-new 2024 BMW 5 Series has just been revealed and it’s already confirmed for South Africa in diesel and pure electric flavours.

The new 2024 BMW 5 Series and its all-electric i5 sibling have grown in size in comparison with the outgoing generation. The newcomer is longer than before at just over 5 metres, and its wheelbase has increased too, by 20 mm.

As far as design goes, the new 5 Series is best described as modern with futuristic elements. Of course, it’s impossible to be objective about styling, but it’s not nearly as polarising as some of BMW’s other products, such as the XM. The i5 scores unique design elements like a closed-off grille, aerodynamic wheels and blue badges. An optional illuminated grille is also available!

The new BMW 5 Series rides on the CLAR architecture and BMW says that while the chassis and suspension is near identical to that of its predecessor, there have been some choice tweaks to enhance the way the vehicle drives.

Inside, the new BMW 5 Series gains the curved infotainment screen setup that we’ve experienced in other products from the Munich-based brand. In this application, a 12.3-inch digital cluster is connected to a 14.9-inch central screen that runs BMW’s iDrive 8.5 operating system.

This system adds gesture control and the “Hey BMW” voice-control function. One of the coolest additions is the “AirConsole” platform that will allow passengers to play games through the on-board screen, but the caveat is the vehicle must be stationary.

What engines are in the 2024 BMW 5 Series?

While most of the marketing material focused on the red electric BMW i5, the brand is well aware there are customers who will choose internal combustion power instead. These two ICE engines feature mild-hybrid technology, while there will also be a plug-in hybrid 5 Series.

The derivatives confirmed for South Africa are the 520d and the fully electric i5 M60. The 520d features a 2.0-litre turbodiesel motor with 145 kW and 400 Nm, with power driving the rear wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Overseas markets will furthermore feature a 530i, 530i xDrive, 540i xDrive, 520d xDrive and 530e/550e xDrive plug-in hybrids.

For those desiring high-performance electric power, the i5 M60 xDrive comes charging in with 442 kW and 820 Nm, giving it a claimed sprint time of just 3.8 seconds. It boasts a claimed range of between 455 km and 516 km thanks to its 84.3 kWh battery.

2024 BMW 5 Series Coming to SA?

A representative from the brand has confirmed the 2024 BMW 5 Series is scheduled to arrive in South Africa in the 4th quarter of 2023, in the form of the 520d and i5 M60 xDrive derivatives.

Volkswagen Touareg Gets Stylish Facelift, Coming to SA in 2024

The large Volkswagen Touareg SUV has received a substantial update and you can expect to see it on local showroom floors in the first half of 2024!

The third-generation Volkswagen Touareg has gone under the knife and has gained a fresh face and an updated interior.

The Touareg sits at the top of the German firm’s vast SUV range which includes the T-Cross, Taigo, T-Roc, Tiguan and Tiguan Allspace. The Touareg has accumulated over 1.13 million sales in its lifetime and it rivals other large luxury SUVs such as the BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE and Audi Q7 to name a few.

What’s changed?

Volkswagen Touareg — *The fresh face of the Touareg features IQ.Light HD LED headlights for a fancier look.*

Visually, the front end of the Touareg has been revised with the fitment of Volkswagen’s IQ.Light HD LED headlights featuring 3 L-shaped LED daytime running light modules that provide superior lighting while also conveying a unique and stylish look. More than this, the grille and front bumper have been redesigned and a keen eye will appreciate the illuminated horizontal strip that runs across the grille as well as the redesigned lower bumper section.

At the rear, the Touareg gains a light bar that extends across the tailgate as well as the new 6 L-Shaped LEDs that make up the striking rear light clusters. The Volkswagen logo is also illuminated in red for the first time. The updated Touareg will ride on wheels sizes ranging from 19- to 21-inches.

Volkswagen Touareg Interior — *The Touareg’s interior has been updated for with additional comfort and tech features.*

Moving inside, the Touareg is fitted with VW’s familiar all-digital Innovision Cockpit which incorporates a 12-inch instrument cluster and 15-inch touchscreen infotainment system, the latter of which now has enhanced high-resolution map data, lane-level navigation as well as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Volkswagen has also updated the interior illuminated trim as well as the centre buttons and thumbwheel volume control found in the centre console.

Faster-charging USB-C ports (45W) are also fitted to charge devices such as smartphones and laptops. Customers can also have a 730-watt Dynaudio sound system fitted as an option.

What engines power the latest Volkswagen Touareg?

Volkswagen Touareg side — *The Touareg will be powered by 5 V6 powertrain options, including 2 potent Hybrid derivatives.*

The Touareg soldiers on with V6 petrol and diesel power under the bonnet with 5 powertrain choices on offer for the model worldwide. These engine options include a 250 kW 3.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine as well a 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine in 2 states of tune with either 170 kW and 210 kW on offer. Volkswagen will also offer the Touareg eHybrid which combines a V6 petrol engine with an electric motor to generate 280 kW while the range-topping Touareg R features the same powertrain but gains a power boost to a whopping 340 kW. The eHybrid derivatives are equipped with a 17.9 kWh battery pack to offer an electric range of up to 47 km. All Touaregs feature Volkswagen’s 4Motion all-wheel-drive and make use of an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Volkswagen has also refined the Touareg’s on-road comfort by revising the suspension (including the air suspension) and a new roof load sensor to improve agility when needed.

When will the updated 2023 Volkswagen Touareg come to South Africa?

A spokesperson from Volkswagen South Africa has confirmed that the updated Touareg will reach local showrooms in the first half of 2024. Local specifications and pricing details will be communicated closer to its arrival and we will keep you updated, stay tuned!

Buy a Volkswagen Touareg on Cars.co.za

Opel Corsa Update for 2024

The cute Corsa has been given a visual makeover and update for 2024. Here’s a look at the changes.

Despite the popularity of crossovers and small SUVs, there’s still a market for compact hatchback. A glance at the sales figures locally for the Volkswagen Polo and Vivo will confirm this. The Opel Corsa is still around and recently the Corsa Lite name made a return to the SA showrooms.

Internationally, the Opel Corsa update has just been announced and it consists of a visual update, some trim upgrades and an enhanced feature offering. Visually, the Opel Corsa update adopts the same styling cues and design language as the Opel Mokka. There are new alloy wheels as well as a new Grafik Gray paint colour.

The standard specification has been enhanced with adaptive Intelli-lux LED matrix headlights, two 10-inch screens, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Hey Opel voice command, over-the-air updates, high-res panoramic camera for parking and enhancements to the semi-autonomous safety package. Inside, there are new fabrics for the seats.

Mechanically, the Opel Corsa update now includes mild-hybrid engines. Both the 1.2 naturally-aspirated 74 kW and 1.2 turbo 100 kW petrol engines feature a 48-volt tech and new dual-clutch gearboxes. There’s a pure electric powertrain too, with two power options: 100 kW and 115 kW, from a 50 kWh battery. The former has an uprated range of 357 km, while the more potent model offers up to 402 km.

Toyota SA ‘studying’ 2.8 GD-6 engine for Land Cruiser 79

The evergreen Toyota Land Cruiser 79 may well receive 4-cylinder power in South Africa by the end of 2023, as the brand’s local division is currently “studying” the introduction of the 2.8 GD-6 engine…

Related content

Kia Bakkie Set for 2025! Fresh Info on New Hilux Rival

Fresh details of Kia’s upcoming ladder-frame bakkie – billed as a “genuine” rival to the likes of the Toyota Hilux and expected in 2025 – have emerged. Here’s what we know…

Related content

Hyundai Tucson N-Line (2023) Launch Review

The Hyundai Tucson N-Line has arrived; armed with a sporty body kit and all-wheel drive, it now heads up the Tucson range. We drive the new 2.0D N-Line AT AWD.

What is Hyundai Tucson N-Line?

What features does it offer?

What is the Tucson N-Line like to drive?

How much does the Hyundai Tucson cost in SA?

Summary

7-Way Bakkie Drag Race (2023)

Cars.co.za recently executed yet another mega bakkie drag race, this time featuring a number of new (and older) double-cab bakkies on offer in South Africa. Which one of these bakkies will cross the finish line first? Watch the video!

Related Content

New Citroen C3 (2023) Price and Specs

The new Citroen C3 hatchback has arrived in South Africa and it will appeal to first-time car buyers! Take a look at what you can expect in terms of specification and pricing!

What engine powers the Citroen C3 in South Africa?

What’s the price of the new Citroen C3 in South Africa?

Related Content

Hyundai Tucson N Line in SA (2023) Price and Specs

A new Hyundai Tucson N Line flagship derivative has arrived in South Africa! Take a look at specification and pricing details below…

How does the Tucson N-Line differ from a standard Tucson?

How much does the Hyundai Tucson Cost in South Africa?

Related content

New Aston Martin DB12 Debuts With 500 kW

The new Aston Martin DB12 has been revealed! Though it seemingly ditches the V12 that was available in the DB11, the newcomer still boasts a whopping 500 kW…

Related content

2024 BMW 5 Series Revealed

The 2024 BMW 5 Series has been revealed and the good news is that the fresh-faced sedan will be landing in South African showrooms before the end of 2023…

What engines are in the 2024 BMW 5 Series?

2024 BMW 5 Series Coming to SA?

Volkswagen Touareg Gets Stylish Facelift, Coming to SA in 2024

The large Volkswagen Touareg SUV has received a substantial update and you can expect to see it on local showroom floors in the first half of 2024!

What’s changed?

What engines power the latest Volkswagen Touareg?

When will the updated 2023 Volkswagen Touareg come to South Africa?

Related Content

Opel Corsa Update for 2024

The cute Corsa has been given a visual makeover and update for 2024. Here’s a look at the changes.

***A new Hyundai Tucson N Line flagship derivative has arrived in* *South Africa! Take a look at specification and pricing details below***…