How Your Mood Affects Your Driving

The year is drawing to a close; it’s a spirited – and stressful – time for motorists. Now, more than ever, you need to keep a level head, because the risk of causing an accident increases tenfold when you drive while in an overly emotional – or tired – state.

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Driving is dangerous and risky despite how experienced we are at it – being a safe driver requires dutiful concentration and a level head. According to the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute in the United States, motorists increase the risk of being involved in a road accident significantly “when they get behind the ‘wheel (of their vehicles) while observably angry, sad, crying, or emotionally agitated”.

The dangers of emotional driving

Emotional driving impairs our driving skills and puts us at greater risk of a car crash. Strong emotions influence our cognitive processes and decision-making abilities almost as much as drugs and alcohol.

Experiencing overwhelming emotions while driving may lead to serious distraction and can cause you to make life-threatening mistakes that you would normally never do, for example:

Speeding through a construction site
Side-swiping or rear-ending another vehicle
Missing a stop sign
Driving through a red light
Drifting off the road or into another lane
Forgetting to use your mirrors in a parking lot
Not noticing a pedestrian in your vehicle’s path

Only feeling a little emotional? Negative driving experiences, such as being cut off by another driver can easily trigger more intense emotions, such as intense anger, which may trigger a road rage incident. Suffice it to say sudden mood changes could prompt you to react in an abnormal or excessive ways.

5 common states that affect your driving capability

Of course, road rage is not the only thing people feel while driving that impairs their driving capabilities. Here are 5 common emotions (or states) that reveal how mood affects driving behaviour:

Tiredness

Everyone knows the dangers of getting behind the ‘wheel while tired. Your reaction times decrease and you’re much less aware of your surroundings.

Feeling exhausted can also put you in a bad mood and make you respond with impatience or frustration. That contributes to risky decision-making and ignoring common traffic rules.

Fear

When you feel afraid, sometimes you behave overcautiously. Driving too slowly or reservedly can be as dangerous as driving too aggressively.

Stress

We live hectic lives and our attention often gets pulled in many directions at once. Stress influences your driving behaviour – instead of focusing on the road, anxiety takes over, impacting your reaction time and making you drive with less care and concern for other road users.

Anger

This is one of the most common emotions associated with distracted driving. Road rage is all too common on our roads. This heightened anger leads to even poorer decision-making and increased aggression. Research has shown that aggressive driving contributes to 66% of all traffic deaths.

Excitement

Positive emotions can affect driving behaviour just as much as negative emotions. Imagine you’re very excited to reach a destination, such as when you’re driving to the airport or an event. This may increase the likelihood that you’ll exceed the speed limit or jump a red light in your haste to get there quickly.

Even feelings of love and happiness can affect your driving by drifting you off into fantasy (daydreams) and diverting your attention from your environment and the actions of other road users.

Tips for controlling your emotions while driving

If you let intense emotions or moods overwhelm you while you’re behind the ‘wheel, it can only put you, your passengers and other road users, including pedestrians, in harm’s way. That’s why you should learn how to recognise and self-regulate your emotions to help you drive safely, no matter what you’re feeling.

Take a Deep Breath

It sounds like a cliché, but it works. If you feel a strong emotion coming on, try taking slow, deep breaths and counting from 1 to 10. You’ll see how quickly you’ll begin to relax if you focus on your breath.

Reframe your thoughts

Our emotions often originate from a specific thought that creates a feeling. If you start to think extremely negative (or even positive) thoughts that affect your emotions – well, just think about something else. You can completely change the subject in your mind. For example, instead of focusing on the mistake you made at work, you can think about a success from the past or an exciting future event.

Choose your audio

Research proves music works to relieve mental stress, elevate your mood, and improve your quality of life. The next time you start to feel overwhelmed by emotion while driving, try turning on calming music to help soothe your stress.

Alternatively, listening to the news or talk radio could agitate or upset you unnecessarily. Switching to a light audiobook or a calming playlist instead will help put you in a better mood.

Factor in delays

Do you feel uncontrollably frustrated or angry when you get stuck in traffic or face an unexpected delay?

Giving yourself a little cushion of time (leaving your destination earlier than you need to) will save you a lot of stress.

On your regular drive to work, try beating the morning rush by getting to work early and leaving in time to miss the afternoon traffic.

Find a good sleep schedule

When you feel rested, it’s much easier to stay alert while driving. Sleep also increases your ability to deal with being in a bad mood and the onset of sudden strong emotions. This means you’re less likely to take risks or react slowly while driving.

Stop and wait it out

Not sure that you can do anything to change how you feel at that moment?

When you’re emotional, it’s difficult to stay level-headed and think clearly, but driving off in a negative state is never a good thing. If nothing else, don’t start your car until you have calmed yourself down.

If you’re driving and find yourself in a deeply emotional state, find a safe place to pull over, gather your thoughts, and wait until you’re calm(er) before you set off again (remember the breathing exercise).

Conclusion

Moods and emotions play important roles in how we perceive (and interact with) the world. Therefore, it can only benefit you, as a driver, to pay attention to, and learn how to regulate, feelings and emotions.

Although you can learn to control your moods, it’s impossible to predict the feelings and behaviours of others. That’s why it’s vital to have a great comprehensive car insurance policy. Get a car insurance quote today; Budget Insurance’s team is always ready to help, give them a call: 086 1600 120.

Renault Mégane RS 300 Ultimé: Farewell Edition Coming to SA

Renault will say goodbye to the Mégane RS hot hatch with a special Ultimé edition. Though it’s not yet been officially revealed, we do know it’s coming to South Africa…

After nearly 20 years, the Renault Mégane RS will be put out to pasture in 2023 as the French firm further shifts its focus to electric vehicles. As a farewell to the hot hatch (and indeed the Renault Sport name as a whole), the Boulogne-Billancourt-based automaker is set to launch a final edition dubbed the Mégane RS 300 Ultimé.

Though the brand’s global headquarters have yet to officially confirm the existence of the RS 300 Ultimé, Renault South Africa has let slip the special model is scheduled to touch down on local soil at some point in 2023. Its approval for the South African market is interesting considering the RS 300 Trophy was discontinued here as long ago as the 3rd quarter of 2021 (just 7 units were available to SA buyers).

So, what do we know about the Mégane RS 300 Ultimé so far? Well, there’s little doubt this will be the last Mégane RS, since the French word “ultimé” translates directly to “ultimate” or “final”. Indeed, the entire Renault Sport division will soon be rebranded under the Alpine banner, meaning this will likely be Renault’s final RS-badged model, too.

*A leaked image gives us an early look at the Ultimé’s body graphics.*

In addition, leaked details (including the low-res image above) in the French media suggest the special version will be based on the Trophy derivative and thus feature the stiffer Cup chassis. It will also gain black badges, a gloss-black blade (as part of the distinctive front-bumper design), a black rear diffuser, 19-inch Fuji Light alloy wheels and a special numbered plaque in the cabin. The most obvious update will come in the form of bold black decals on the hot hatch’s bonnet and roof, and along its flanks, contrasting with the signature Sirius Yellow paintwork.

What about some extra oomph? Well, it’s not entirely clear whether Renault will tweak the Trophy’s 221 kW turbocharged 1.8-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine, but early rumours suggest the standard powertrain will remain in place. From what we can tell, the front-driven Mégane RS 300 Ultimé – which was originally expected to wear the “Heritage” rather than Ultimé nameplate – will be offered exclusively in 6-speed dual-clutch form, rather than with a 6-speed manual gearbox.

We’ll keep our eyes and ears open in the coming weeks and months as official information comes to light. Right now, it’s difficult to say how many examples of the Mégane RS 300 Ultimé will come to South Africa (and indeed how much each one will cost) next year, but we wouldn’t be surprised if the local market receives a single-digit allocation.

Best Used Car Buys for South Africa

We have put together a comprehensive list of the best used car buys, taking into consideration fuel economy, ownership satisfaction and more.

South Africa’s leading automotive platform Cars.co.za has announced its inaugural Best Used Car Buys. It’s based on the test team’s vast experience with cars, SUVs and bakkies in the new- and used-vehicle markets, as well as model and pricing data collected on an ongoing basis.

“We prefer to position this as a Buyer’s Guide rather than an awards programme,” explains Consumer Experience Manager, Hannes Oosthuizen, “because there are so many variables at play when it comes to choosing a used vehicle. Given the current economic climate, we have placed emphasis on value for money, durability, good after-sales service and fuel efficiency.”

“We are in the fortunate position to have a lot of data from our previous Cars.co.za Consumer Awards programme that is still very valid, but of course, there are nuances that need to be considered when looking at the marketplace with a ‘used-car lens’,” he says.

“For example, a solid product that wasn’t priced quite right when new, or which, for whatever reason, didn’t garner many sales in the new-car market, may subsequently have suffered significant depreciation. In light of that, it may make a lot more sense as a used-car buy.

“The opposite of that is when an award-winning vehicle goes on to be in high demand in the used-car market. When the asking prices of such a model become too inflated compared with other models in its segment, it becomes less appealing as a used-car buy,” Oosthuizen adds.

“In these tough economic times, where household budgets are tight, careful consideration should be given to which car you buy, and it is our hope that this Buyer’s Guide, which will be updated annually, will become a solid starting point for people on their car-purchasing journey.”

Want to buy a new or used car? Start your search here.

Best Used Car Buys for South Africa 2022

Best Buys Under R125 000

Entry-Level: Kia Picanto 1.0/1.2 (also consider Hyundai Grand i10 1.25)
Compact Hatch: Ford Fiesta 1.4 Ambiente (also consider VW Polo Vivo 1.4 Comfortline, Renault Sandero Dynamique)
Compact Family Car/Crossover: Ford EcoSport 1.5 TiVCT
Sedan: Hyundai Accent 1.6 GLS/Fluid (also consider Kia Rio 1.4)

Best Buys Under R150 000

Entry-Level: Suzuki Ignis 1.2 GL (also consider Hyundai Atos 1.1 Motion, Kia Picanto 1.2)
Compact Hatch: Honda Jazz 1.2 Trend (also consider Opel Corsa 1.0T Essentia)
Compact Family Car: Ford EcoSport 1.5 TDCi Titanium (also consider Opel Crossland X 1.2T Enjoy)
Sedan: Kia Rio 1.4 Tec (also consider Hyundai Accent GL/Motion)

04/11/2020 – #CarsAwards (Photo by Roarke Bouffe / Cars.co.za)

Best Buys Under R200 000

Entry-Level: Toyota Starlet 1.4 XI (also consider Suzuki Swift 1.2 GL, Hyundai Grand i10 1.2 Fluid)
Compact Hatch: Honda Jazz 1.5 Elegance (also consider VW Polo 1.2 TSI Comfortline (previous-gen))
C-segment Hatch: VW Golf VII 1.4 Comfortline (also consider Ford Focus 1.5 Trend)
Compact Family Car: Renault Duster 1.6 Dynamique (also consider Ford EcoSport 1.5 TDCi Titanium, Hyundai Creta 1.6 Executive)
Family Car: Nissan Qashqai 1.5 dCi Acenta (also consider Hyundai ix35 2.0, Mazda CX-5 2.0)
Sedan: Suzuki Ciaz 1.5 GL (also consider Hyundai Elantra 1.6 Executive)

Best Buys Under R250 000

Entry-Level: Toyota Starlet 1.4 XS (also consider Suzuki Baleno 1.4 GL, Kia Picanto 1.2 X-Line)
Compact Hatch: VW Polo 1.0 TSI Comfortable (also consider Kia Rio 1.4 EX, Opel Corsa 1.0T Essentia)
C-segment Hatch: VW Golf 1.4 TSI Comfortline (also consider Mazda3 1.6 Dynamic, Opel Astra 1.4T Sport)
Compact Family Car: Toyota Urban Cruiser 1.5 Xs (also consider Ford EcoSport 1.5 TDCi Titanium, Hyundai Creta 1.6 Executive)
Family Car: Nissan Qashqai 1.2T Acenta (also consider Mitsubishi ASX 2.0 GLS, Hyundai Tucson 2.0 Premium)
Sedan: Mazda3 1.6 Dynamic (also consider Hyundai Elantra 1.6 Executive, Kia Pegas 1.4 EX)
Double-Cab: Ford Ranger 2.2 TDCI XLS (also consider Isuzu KB250 D-Teq HO)

Best Buys Under R300 000

Compact Hatch: Honda Fit 1.5 Comfort (also consider VW Polo 1.0 TSI Highline, Peugeot 208 1.2T Allure)
Premium Hatch: BMW 118i (also consider Audi A3 Sportback 1.4 TFSI/35 TFSI, VW Golf 1.4 TSI Comfortline)
Compact Family Car: Kia Seltos 1.6 EX (also consider Suzuki Vitara 1.6 GLX, Opel Crossland X 1.2 Cosmo)
Family Car: Mazda CX-5 2.0 Active (also consider Toyota RAV4 2.0 GX Auto, Kia Sportage 2.0 Ignite+)
Premium Sedan: BMW 320i (also consider Mercedes-Benz C180, Audi A4 1.4 TFSI)
Performance Car: Ford Fiesta ST (also consider Suzuki Swift Sport)
Double-Cab: Ford Ranger 2.2 TDCI XLT (also consider Isuzu KB/D-Max 250 HO X-Rider)

Best Buys Under R400 000

Premium Hatch: BMW 120i (also consider Audi A3 Sportback 1.4 TFSI/35 TFSI, VW Golf GTI)
Compact Family Car: Kia Seltos 1.5D EX+ (also consider Toyota Corolla Cross XS, Peugeot 2008 1.2T Active Auto)
Family Car: Mazda CX-5 2.0 Dynamic (also consider Toyota RAV4 2.0 GX Auto, VW Tiguan 1.4 TSI Comfortline Auto)
Performance Car: Mini JCW (also consider Renault Megane IV RS, Audi TT 2.0 TFSI)
Double-Cab: Toyota Hilux 2.8GD-6 Raider 4×4 (also consider Ford Ranger 2.2 TDCI XLT Auto, Isuzu KB300 D-Teq LX)
Executive SUV/Crossover: Volvo XC60 D4 Momentum (also consider BMW X1 sDrive20d, Audi Q3 2.0 TDI)

Best Used Car Buys — 04/11/2020 – #CarsAwards (Photo by Roarke Bouffe / Cars.co.za)

Best Buys Under R500 000

Premium Hatch: BMW 118i M Sport (also consider Audi A3 Sportback 1.4 TFSI/35 TFSI Auto, Mercedes-Benz A200)
Compact Family Car: Kia Seltos 1.4T GT-Line (also consider Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 XS Hybrid, Hyundai Grand Creta 2.0 Elite)
Family Car: Mazda CX-5 2.0 Individual Auto (also consider Toyota RAV4 2.0 VX Auto, VW Tiguan Allspace 2.0 TSI Highline 4Motion)
Sports Car: Jaguar F-Type 3.0 V6 Coupe (also consider Mazda MX-5, Ford Mustang 5.0 GT)
Hot Hatch: Ford Focus RS (also consider Hyundai i30N, Renault Megane IV RS)
Double-Cab: Toyota Hilux 2.8GD-6 Raider 4×4 (also consider Ford Ranger 2.0D XLT Auto, Isuzu D-Max 300 LX 4×4)
Executive SUV/Crossover: BMW X3 xDrive20d (also consider Audi Q5 2.0 TDI / 40 TDI, Land Rover Discovery Sport 2.0i4 D HSE)
Adventure SUV: Toyota Fortuner 2.8 GD-6 4×4 Auto (also consider Ford Everest 3.2 LTD Auto, Mitsubishi Pajero Sport 2.4D 4×4)
Luxury Sedan: Lexus ES 250 EX (also consider Volvo S90 D5 Inscription, Mercedes-Benz E220d Avantgarde)

Factors Considered

To give some structure and to reflect buying “hot-spots” in the market, the Cars.co.za team applied the following guidelines and methodology in determining the 2022/23 Cars.co.za Used Cars Buyer’s Guide.

Only vehicles seven years and younger were considered.
Only vehicles with less than 100 000 km on the odometer were considered.
Brands that previously performed consistently well in the Cars.co.za Ownership Satisfaction Survey were given preference.
At the time of determining the list, stock of the particular model would have to be available on Cars.co.za within the above-mentioned parameters.
Fuel consumption was a very important factor.

“We hope that this Buyer’s Guide will, at the very least, point consumers in the right direction. Personal brand and design preferences will of course always play a role in the decision-making process and, for that reason, we’ve also listed alternatives to consider,” explains Oosthuizen.

“It is also important to note that the usual rules when shopping for a used car remain as applicable to our selected vehicles, as to any other models on the market. Buy from recognised, established dealerships with a proven reputation, make sure the vehicle’s service history is complete, and always undertake a test drive to avoid any nasty surprises,” he concludes.

VW’s Pending ‘Made-in-SA’ Mystery Model: What We Know So Far…

Though Volkswagen SA has confirmed it hopes to start building a 3rd model in Kariega, there’s an air of mystery surrounding the newcomer. Here’s what we know so far…

At the start of November 2022, Volkswagen South Africa announced plans to build a 3rd product – alongside the Polo hatchback and the Polo Vivo – at its Kariega plant in the Eastern Cape. Martina Biene, Volkswagen Group SA chairperson and managing director, said the mystery model would feature an “SUV-ish” body style, before adding it was not yet in production anywhere in the world.

That, in turn, means the vehicle in question has yet to be revealed, so its identity remains unknown. So, what do we know so far? Well, let’s attempt to answer a few key questions in order to shed a little more light on the topic.

In which segment will the newcomer likely compete?

Biene also revealed the mystery model would be “very much shaped for the A0 segment, and for South Africa and Africa”, furthermore confirming it would be built on the VW Group’s ubiquitous MQB-A0 platform. That leads us to believe the vehicle will take the shape of a budget-friendly crossover positioned below the T-Cross, Taigo, T-Roc, Tiguan and Touareg.

If that indeed turns out to be the case, the as-yet-unrevealed crossover would find itself competing against a raft of sub-4-metre, Indian-built baby SUVs, such as the Nissan Magnite, Renault Kiger, Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, Suzuki Vitara Brezza and Mahindra XUV300 (as well as whatever replaces Toyota’s Urban Cruiser, plus the Ford EcoSport, though the latter seems unlikely to still be around at that stage).

Interestingly, the Wolfsburg-based automaker had concrete intentions of building a small, Up-based crossover way back in 2012, when it revealed the Taigun concept, before showing off a “near-production” version 2 years later. However, that project was eventually shelved (though the Taigun badge has since been applied to Indian-built crossover closely related to the T-Cross), with the larger T-Cross instead going into production.

What might Volkswagen’s mystery crossover be called?

*Any new crossover from VW would likely wear a badge starting with “T”.*

It seems highly probable any new addition to VW’s already extensive crossover range in the relatively near future would follow the brand’s current naming convention for such models. That, of course, means it would start with a “T”.

To speculate any further, we’d have to look at the badges the German automaker has applied to trademark in recent times. Perhaps the most likely candidate is “T-Sport”, a nameplate that VW filed to register in a handful of new regions as recently as March 2022.

Interestingly, the T-Sport moniker was also part of a 2019 trademark registration process, along with “T-Go” and “T-Coupé” (though the latter two seem less probable, from where we’re standing). Then there’s the “T-Track” designation that was widely expected to debut on the still-born production version of the Taigun concept.

Another recently trademarked option is “T-Space”, though we’re not convinced such a name would make sense on what will surely be the most compact VW crossover yet.

When can we expect production of the new model to start?

*The mystery model is set to join (rather than replace) the Polo and Polo Vivo on the Kariega production line.*

This is perhaps the trickiest question to answer, since technically production of the new model has not been locked in for Kariega and the vehicle has yet to be revealed. But considering it takes time – and a significant investment – for a new model (even one built on a common platform) to be added to an assembly line, we’d speculate a potential start of production is still some way off.

Indeed, reports out of India suggest the VW Group will start building a new sub-4-metre, Škoda-badged crossover in that country only at the start of 2025. As a reminder, Škoda was handed global responsibility for the MQB-A0 platform in October 2021, when it was also given the task to develop new “entry-level” Volkswagen and Škoda models for “regions with high growth potential”, including India, Russia and Africa.

It certainly wouldn’t be a stretch to speculate the VW-badged version of that upcoming model is the very vehicle the German firm’s local division is keen to add to its Kariega production line…

Alfa Romeo Giulia SWB Zagato Announced

After a few teasers, the Alfa Romeo Giulia SWB Zagato has been revealed. Sadly, there’s just one being made for an exclusive collector.

The Italian styling house Zagato has revealed this one-off creation. Essentially, its a two-door sportscar based on the Alfa Romeo Giulia, but with a shortened wheelbase, engine from the GTAm and a manual transmission.

Sadly, there’s going to be just one of these and its a one-off creation designed to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the first collaboration between Zagato coachbuilders and Alfa Romeo. This vehicle is headed to a German collector who has an extensive collection featuring many Alfa Romeos as well as Zagato Aston Martins.

MORE: Alfa Romeo Tonale Launch review

Using a manual-equipped Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio as a donor car, Zagato got to work and shortened the wheelbase and upgrading parts to GTAm spec. The 2.9-litre biturbo V6 cranks out 397 kW and power goes to the rear wheels via a 6-speed manual gearbox. It may share many parts from the Giulia (and headlights from the Tonale SUV), but the bodywork is brand-new and designed in-house.

The front is bold and aggressive, with plenty of carbon fibre and large intakes. There’s a large Alfa Romeo logo in the grille and twin central exhausts round off the unique design. Inside, there’s the dashboard straight from the Giulia, but there are some unique touches like the carbon-fibre door detailing and carbon-fibre bucket seats.

Given the design and the fact that there’s just one, we reckon that Zagato will be approached to make a few more. A price wasn’t disclosed, but if any other unique one-off creations from European coachbuilders are anything to go by, we wouldn’t be surprised if it cost around €500 000.

New Ford Ranger – We Chat to the Chief Engineer

At the recent local debut of the brand-new Ford Ranger double-cab bakkie, we had a chance to have a chat with the man who signed off on the entire project.

British-born Ian Foston has quite the portfolio and title. According to his LinkedIn bio, he’s Global Chief Program Engineer, having overseen the development of the new Ranger, Everest, Raptor and Volkswagen Amarok.

MORE: Ford Ranger vs Volkswagen Amarok – What are the differences?

The Melbourne-based engineer is an off-road enthusiast, and proudly talks about his personal vehicles: a Ford Everest and a Ford Raptor, a near-perfect two-car garage if you’re an adventurous Blue Oval fanatic. During the launch of the brand-new Ranger, he jumped into the passenger seat of our test unit, having just stepped off a plane to attend the event in the Western Cape.

MORE: Ford Ranger (2022) Launch Review

On the development process of both the new Ranger and new Everest: “It was epic going out to customers and saying “what are the things we can approve on, what are the areas you want us to focus on?” Also, living with customers and finding out what are the things they want that they don’t know they want. We wanted to make the products more premium, more versatile and suitable for customers not only carrying stuff, but also the comfort of driving in different environments. For me, it was pushing the boundaries/segment frontiers of what a ute/bakkie is thought of both from a premium side and an off-road side.”

On the T6 platform enhancements: “Pretty much everything under the skin has been redeveloped, retooled and re-engineered. We went back to basics to achieve what we wanted with a ladder-frame chassis. We’ve really done lots of work on making the frame compliant, to give us that great offroad articulation, moving the wheels and shocks outboard to give us bigger bandwidth to do the suspension tuning for both on- and off-road, and to fit the bigger V6 engines (diesel for Ranger, petrol for Raptor).”

Foston’s favourite aspects of the new Ranger: “The architectural stuff, like giving people a bigger bandwidth of powertrains, giving them better off-road capability, I call this the bones of the vehicle. Other small things that are simple to execute, but make such big differences like the outboard cup holders which are there for people who want to carry more than one drink and are conveniently located in the airflow from the vents to keep your drinks cold. In the back, making the bed wide enough for a Euro pallet. I know it’s small, but it was something we know people who use this vehicle for work – it would mean a lot to them. “

On lifespan and future-proofing the Ranger in the age of electrification: “We want to make sure with this platform that we are going to sell a lot of trucks and make sure we are paying back the investment put into this platform. We’ll be looking at using this platform for as long as we can, but honestly, it’s very much a fluid environment, in the automotive industry. There’s lots of legislation coming for ICE, cyber security and safety. All we can do is try crystal ball gaze as best we can. We’ve said before that we’re protected for electrification, but we’re not going to talk specifically about how yet, so we’ll save that news for when we’ve got something to say. Electrification has been on our minds since we developed the platform.”

Want to buy a new or used Ford Ranger? Browse stock now.

Hyundai Venue (2022) Review

The Hyundai Venue was updated in October 2022 and, while all derivatives of the brand’s small crossover model benefitted from design revisions and an upgraded specification, the range also gained a sportier flagship version – the N Line.

We like: Sporty look – inside and out, fun exhaust pops and bangs, surprisingly quick

We don’t like: Engine/exhaust noise can get a bit tiresome, there’s better value elsewhere in the range

FAST FACTS

Model: Hyundai Venue 1.0T N Line
Price: R449 900
Engine: 1.0-litre three-turbocharged petrol
Power/Torque: 88 kW and 172 Nm
Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch transmission
Fuel consumption: 6.9 L/100 km (claimed)
0-100 kph: 11.4 sec (claimed)
Luggage capacity: 343 litres

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A sporty small crossover is a great idea… on paper.

Where does the updated Venue fit in?

The segment in which the Hyundai Venue plays is enormous. The proliferation of small crossovers (also known as compact family cars/SUVs) has almost wiped out light sedans and their hatchback equivalents are on the endangered species list too. So many small crossovers are sold every month that it’s frankly easier to point out the brands that aren’t playing in this segment – the market is that competitive.

Visit our Buyer’s Guide to see which is the best SUV for you

Some of the more well-known small crossover models include the Haval Jolion, Kia Sonet, Ford Ecosport, Volkswagen T-Cross, Renault Kiger, and the Toyota Urban Cruiser and Suzuki Vitara Brezza cousins.

Since its local launch in 2019, the Hyundai Venue has sold briskly – it’s the 3rd-bestselling model in the segment (behind Urban Cruiser and T-Cross) and the recent update should help to keep it relevant. The Venue N Line is available in only 3 three colours (all with black roofs): white, grey and blue, shown here.

Compare the Hyundai Venue to some of its rivals here

The updated Venue features a new-look grille. Note the subtle N-Line badge.

How the Hyundai Venue fares in terms of…

Performance and economy

The range’s engine and gearbox options have been carried over from the pre-facelift model; whereas the entry-level 1.2 Motion is powered by a naturally aspirated (NA) 4-cylinder petrol motor, most derivatives have a 3-cylinder turbopetrol motor. And that’s a good thing – if you’re based in Gauteng (where the air is thinner than at the coast), the turbocharged 1.0-litre powertrain won’t lose as much power as its free-breathing sibling (it’s estimated that NA motors lose between 10 and 16 per cent on the Highveld).

Drivers can choose from 3 drive modes in the N Line.

With 88 kW/172 Nm driving the front wheels via a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, the Venue N Line feels energetic. Its kerb weight is just over 1 100 kg, which accounts for some of the peppiness!

We suspected the N Line could post a faster 0-100 kph time than what its manufacturer claims and, sure enough, our test equipment confirmed that the Venue flagship dashed from a standstill to 100 kph in a respectable 10.01 seconds (that’s more than 10% quicker than Hyundai says the derivative should be).

We also reckon that the N Line comes equipped with a sports exhaust, because each gear change was accompanied by entertaining little pops/bangs, while the powertrain’s management software seemed to make the feisty Venue blip its throttle when shifting down a gear. It was quite out of character for a small crossover – and quite amusing, but we do wonder how long it would take for one to grow weary of it.

Sport sharpens things up, while Eco is for endurance

There are 3 drive modes, each of which alters the vehicle’s driving characteristics and is accompanied by a specific colour scheme on the digital instrument cluster. Normal is self-explanatory, Sport sharpens up the throttle response (sensitivity of the accelerator pedal) and Eco dials things back to preserve fuel.

While there are no ‘shift paddles on the steering wheel (for added driver engagement), you’re not likely to need them because the engine-transmission calibration seems near-perfect; changes are well-timed.

We hope you like the bright red detailing!

After a few days of spirited driving, the Venue N Line test unit indicated an average fuel consumption of 7.9 L/100 km, which is not much higher than the manufacturer’s claim (6.9 L/100 km). The Venue has a 45-litre fuel tank, which gives it a theoretical range of around 650 km from a single fill-up.

Ride and handling

Refinement-wise, many small crossovers’ cabins exhibit quite a bit of noise and vibration – a surefire indication that such vehicles are built to a tight price target. The Venue is priced a bit higher than some of its rivals, but it feels more solid/upmarket by comparison. Three-cylinder engines are known for their distinct rumbling sound (thrum) and vibration, but the Venue’s cabin seems particularly well insulated.

These 16-inch alloy wheels are specific to the N-Line derivative.

The N Line rides on handsome 16-inch alloy rims shod with 215/60 tyres, which, thanks to their generous sidewalls, absorb all but the worst ruts and bumps in the road. Hyundai and sister brand Kia favour comfortable suspension setups in the Venue and Sonet and, even though the N Line’s ride quality is slightly on the firmer side, it’s still quite comfortable by the standards of the small-crossover segment.

The multifunction steering wheel can be twirled with very little effort, which makes it a cinch to execute parking manoeuvres with the diminutive Venue, but it offers virtually nothing in terms of feel. Still, the setup is reasonably direct and it’s easy to place the vehicle on the road. It may be a “baby SUV”, but due to its relatively low kerb weight, the Venue N Line feels agile. However, don’t expect it to have corner-carving ability, this is an N-Line product (a packaging exercise) – not a performance-oriented N model.

These seats look cool, but they could offer a bit more side bolstering.

With a ground clearance of 195 mm (all derivatives), the Venue has no problem coping with gravel roads. When we ventured off the tar during the test, the Hyundai’s stability on gravel routes proved impressive.

Features, tech and safety features

As befitting the flagship derivative of the range, the N Line comes well-appointed with features, such as synthetic leather seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, selectable drive modes, metallic pedals, a sunroof, an electrically-adjustable driver’s seat and both USB-A and USB-C ports, to name but a few.

USB-A and USB-C ports are fitted as standard.

The infotainment system supports wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto connectivity – we tested both systems and they worked seamlessly. Of course, beyond the screen-mirroring ability, you can access smartphone functions such as online navigation and streaming services – perfect for the Venue’s younger target market. The infotainment screen also displays the feed from the reverse-view camera.

In terms of safety features, the Venue N Line is not generously equipped. There are 6 airbags fitted (whereas the entry-level version has just a pair), ABS, stability control and hill-start assist, but we reckon that at this price point (R450k), you should get some form of semi-autonomous driving assist systems (such as autonomous emergency braking, which detects pedestrians and other obstacles) as well.

A simple and uncluttered interior with red accents that compliment the Sport drive-mode display.

Packaging and Practicality

The N-Line derivative is distinguished by subtle N-Line badges (on its nose, flanks and tailgate), 16-inch alloy wheels, a black roof with a rear spoiler, plus a pair of exhaust pipes. As for the interior execution, well, we hope you like red, because there’s rouge detailing everywhere inside the flagship Venue.

There’s red stitching on the steering wheel, seats and gear selector, and red surrounds on the climate control knobs and the adjusters of the ventilation outlets. It is all a bit much? Perhaps, but at the least Venue’s cabin looks interesting (even funky) compared with those of bland and predictable crossovers.

The driver’s seat position is good; you’re perched higher than in a conventional hatchback, and the electric adjustment is a big plus, because the steering column is adjustable for rake, but not for reach.

Rear passengers get their own air vents and USB charging port. Headroom is fair, but legroom is limited for taller occupants. The rear seats can be folded in a 60/40 split to increase cargo-carrying capacity.

As expected, the rear legroom is a little tight for taller occupants.

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Venue Price and After-sales support

The Hyundai Venue range starts from R294 900 and goes up to R449 900 for the N-Line you see here. The vehicle is sold with a 7-year/200 000 km warranty, as well as a 3-year/45 000 km service plan.

Verdict

The lightbar across the rear is a bold design element.

We’re not sure who asked for a small crossover with a sporty bent, but we’re glad such a thing exists. Courtesy of its updates, the Venue remains fresh and its bold new look should be quite a drawcard. The N Line appeals to buyers who want a bit of extra kerb appeal (and even a bit of an exhaust burble), but the flagship derivative has the same drawback as many top-end small crossovers… less bang for buck.

While there’s no denying the Venue N Line’s novelty factor – and many buyers may be able to justify the derivative’s R20k premium over the 1.0T Fluid auto – R450k just seems a bit pricey when you consider that you could step into the bigger/more practical (but admittedly less attractive) Creta for that price. If you are single or part of a “double income with no kids” setup, however, the N Line’s well worth a look.

Big Fuel Price Cuts for January 2023?

Unaudited mid-month fuel price data released by the Central Energy Fund points to considerable fuel price cuts for January 2023.

Relief is on the horizon for cash-strapped motorists in South Africa as mid-month fuel price data suggests that fuel prices will be slashed in January 2023.

Based on unaudited mid-month data, the price of Diesel (0.005% Sulphur) could be reduced by as much as R2.83 per litre while Diesel (0.05% Sulphur) might realise reductions of R2.73 per litre.

The price of Petrol ULP 93/95 could be cut by R1.93 per litre. The price of Illuminating Paraffin could also see reductions of up to R2.16 per litre.

Factors currently contributing to this potential outcome include lower international prices for petroleum products (due to the lower price of Brent Crude) as well as a stronger Rand / US Dollar exchange rate in the first 2 weeks of December.

In the short term, international oil prices are expected to remain stable and with the balance of December remaining, the Rand’s performance against the US Dollar is also expected to remain relatively consistent following the announcement that President Cyril Ramaphosa secured his second term as president of the ANC. Should the Rand get stronger in the next 2 weeks, then even larger fuel price cuts will be likely. We are holding thumbs!

Current Fuel Prices in South Africa

Fuel Type	Inland	Coastal
Petrol Unleaded 93	R23.16	R22.51
Petrol Unleaded 95	R23.46	R22.81
Petrol LRP	R23.16	R22.51
Diesel 0.05%	R23.92	R23.27
Diesel 0.005%	R24.23	R23.59

Fuel price data courtesy of AA

We will update this article as soon as the official fuel price adjustments are announced.

Electric Toyota Hilux Shown

Toyota recently celebrated 60 years of business in Thailand and a battery-electric Hilux concept vehicle was unveiled by Toyota president, Akio Toyoda.

Exactly a year ago, Toyota announced its intention to produce no less than 30 new Electric Vehicles (EVs) by the end of the decade and took the opportunity to show off 15 new concepts.

Interestingly, one of those concepts was an electric Hilux bakkie and now, a year later, a battery-electric single-cab Hilux bakkie concept has been shown. The electric Hilux concept stood alongside the IMV O Concept and was joined on stage by Toyota president, Akio Toyoda.

Note the EV-like grille as well as the charging port seen above the front left wheel arch. Sadly, no technical details for the electric Hilux concept were divulged and it remains to be seen when exactly Toyota will launch an electric Hilux.

Toyoda did, however, comment that “I am often criticised in the press because I won’t declare that the automotive industry should commit 100% to BEV (Battery Electric Vehicles). I believe we need to be realistic about when society will be able to fully adopt Battery Electric Vehicles and when our infrastructure can support them at scale. Because, just like the fully autonomous cars that we were all supposed to be driving by now, I think BEVs are just going to take longer to become mainstream than the media would like us to believe. And, frankly, BEVs are not the only way to achieve the world’s carbon neutrality goals. Personally, I would rather pursue every option, not just one option, such as emission-free synthetic fuels and hydrogen. I still believe hydrogen is as promising a technology for our future as BEV.”

Toyoda’s comment is hardly surprising as Toyota is currently researching and developing a hydrogen-powered Hilux using the firm’s second-generation fuel cell technology currently used by the Mirai.

The first hydrogen-powered Hilux prototypes are expected in 2023.

Does the idea of an electric Hilux excite you? Share your thoughts with us!

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Updated Jaguar F-Pace Confirmed for SA in 2023

The updated Jaguar F-Pace SUV has been confirmed for SA in early 2023 featuring more EV range and more standard specification.

The Jaguar F-Pace has been one of the British brand’s success stories. Combining great looks, excellent driving manners and an assortment of powertrains, the F-Pace has proven popular.

Now for 2023, Jaguar has confirmed some updates, with a focus on its electrified hybrid derivative. The update includes the addition of an upgraded battery back of 19.2 kWh that sees the pure electric range of the P400e climb to 65 km (based on WLTP) which is a 20% increase on the previous hardware setup.

The updated P400e features 297 kW and 640 Nm, which is enough to give it a 0-100 kph of 5.3 seconds and a consumption claim of 1.6 L/100 km. Jaguar claims this model accounts for 1 in 10 F-Pace sales.

The rest of the range has been tweaked for simplification purposes, with non R-Dynamic derivatives falling away, making it easier for customers to choose. The upside of this is enhanced specifications and standard loadout across the board.

More: Want to buy a new or used Jaguar? Browse stock here

R-Dynamic SE and HSE models are fitted with 20- and 21-inch wheels respectively, and all derivatives feature a space saver as standard, with the option of a full-size spare. The Black Pack is standard across all models, and this comprises a gloss black finish on things like the grille surround, mirror caps, rear bumper and so on.

More: The latest Jaguar specs and prices

Step inside and every F-Pace derivative features the responsive Pivi Pro infotainment system, with wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto and over-the-air updates, as well as wireless charging.

Updated Jaguar F-Pace South African ETA

When it touches down in SA, the updated Jaguar F-Pace range will comprise: R-Dynamic SE, R-Dynamic HSE and SVR, the latter with its 405 kW supercharged V8.

The South African powertrains comprise a 297 kW four-cylinder petrol PHEV, a 147 kW D200 diesel, a 221 kW D300 six-cylinder diesel and the mighty SVR. All models come with all-wheel drive and 8-speed automatic transmissions, and pricing will be confirmed in early 2023 when the vehicles land in SA.