This monster Fiat Uno Turbo lurks in Johannesburg, South Africa. Built by an enthusiast who owns two of them, it is one of the most powerful Uno Turbos in the world. Watch the video!
Marcello Massia owns a Fiat Uno Turbo, but his wife bought him another one. That’s quite a Christmas present.
The car was in relatively poor shape though, the previous owner abandoned the project after the engine exploded. It turned out that it just blew a gasket, so after replacing that and making a couple of tweaks, and with a good tune, the car is now running very nicely indeed.
With a 1.6-litre 4-cyl source from a Fiat Palio, this is not the easiest car to modify, but Marcello’s love for the cars has pulled him through, and now the car should run low 11s on the quarter mile.
Marcello, we salute you, and wish you many happy miles.
Earlier this year, Maserati revealed its Porsche-rivalling Grecale SUV and it’s been earmarked for South African introduction early in 2023. Here’s what you can expect to pay for the newcomer!
Maserati, the Modena-based luxury car manufacturer, earlier this year revealed its new Grecale SUV which slots in beneath the larger Levante SUV and will rival the Porsche Macan.
The Grecale measures 4 846 mm long, 2 163 mm wide, 1 670 mm tall and has a wheelbase of 2 901 mm.
The Grecale adopts sleek, coupe-like styling with a low-slung bonnet and a menacing inverted grille flanked by large air intakes while the rear boomerang taillights draw inspiration from the Giugiaro 3200 GT.
Inside, it’s an all-digital affair with a large central 12.3-inch infotainment system and an 8.8-inch lower secondary screen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The traditional Maserati clock is now also digital… As expected, the cabin adopts quality finishes including fine leather upholstery with contrast stitching.
What powertrains are offered for the Maserati Grecale?
The Grecale is expected to arrive in South Africa towards the end of 2022.
From launch, the all-wheel-drive Maserati Grecale will be offered in 3 flavours including the GT, Modena and range-topping Trofeo.
The entry-level Grecale GT is fitted with a 4-cylinder, 2.0-litre turbopetrol engine with mild-hybrid technology and offers outputs of 224 kW and 450 Nm of torque. The Modena uses the same powerplant but power is ramped up to 246 kW while retaining its 450 Nm torque figure. Both derivatives use an 8-speed automatic transmission and Maserati claims a 5.6 second sprint time for the GT while the Modena is capable of 5.3 seconds to 100 kph.
As for the range-topping Grecale Trofeo, it employs the same twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine from the Maserati MC20 supercar with outputs of 390 kW and 620 Nm of torque. Zero to 100 kph is pegged at 3.8 seconds using a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission and an electronic rear limited-slip differential. Top speed is rated at 285 kph.
But that’s not all, Maserati will also introduce an all-electric Grecale Folgore with 400V technology at a later stage.
The Maserati Grecale is due for South African introduction early in 2023.
How much does the Maserati Grecale cost in South Africa?
The new BMW XM, which boasts a lofty peak power output of 480 kW courtesy of the M division’s first plug-in hybrid powertrain, will cost R3.4 million when it arrives in SA.
Earlier this year, BMW finally unveiled the new XM with great fanfare; it is the M division’s second standalone model after the M1 of the late 1970s. Then, in October, South Africans saw the plug-in hybrid performance SUV in the metal when it was exhibited at the 2022 BMW M Fest at Kyalami.
Revealed as part of the M division’s 50th-anniversary celebrations (and preceded by the BMW Concept XM), the new 5-seater high-performance SUV is scheduled to go on sale in Mzansi in the second quarter of 2023. BMW says the Spartanburg-built vehicle will appeal to “new target groups”, though promises it will still deliver a “well-resolved performance experience worthy of the M badge”.
A closer look at the BMW XM’s PHEV powertrain
This is the M division’s first high-performance vehicle with an electrified drive system, here comprising a “high-revving”, twin-turbo 4.4-litre V8 petrol engine and an “exceptionally powerful” electric motor. As announced earlier, total system outputs of the vehicle at launch stand at 480 kW and 800 Nm (360 kW/650 Nm courtesy of the petrol engine and 145 kW/280 Nm from the electric gubbins, though each of the two components’ peak figures are produced at different stages).
The electric motor is integrated into the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission and benefits from a “pre-gearing stage” that increases its effective maximum torque to 450 Nm at the transmission input. Drive is sent to all four wheels through a rear-biased all-wheel-drive system. Thanks in part to the immediate response of the electric motor and the grip offered by the all-paw arrangement, the XM will sprint from standstill to 100 kph in a claimed 4.3 seconds. Top speed comes in at 250 kph, though this figure can be raised to 270 kph by selecting the optional M Driver’s Package.
When the driver isn’t chasing acceleration times, the XM offers an all-electric mode with a claimed range of up to 88 km (though cruising speed in this setting is limited to 140 kph). The high-voltage lithium-ion battery pack mounted in the vehicle’s underbody has a gross capacity of 25.7 kWh, while the combined charging unit enables AC charging at speeds up to 7.4 kW.
Just how large (and heavy) is the new BMW XM?
The hefty SUV measures 5 110 mm long, 2 005 mm wide and stands 1 755 mm tall, with a wheelbase of 3 105 mm. For reference, that makes it a little smaller than the X7.
Ground clearance comes in at 220 mm, while the listed luggage capacity figures range from 527 to 1 820 litres, depending on the configuration of the seats. If you’re wondering just how heavy the XM is, BMW lists an unladen weight of up to 2 785 kg (for the record, that’s 110 kg more than the larger X7 M60i xDrive).
As standard, the electrified SUV is fitted with 21-inch wheels, while alloys measuring up to 23 inches in diameter will also be optionally available. Adaptive suspension ships standard, including electronically controlled dampers and 48V active roll stabilisation. The XM is also the first M model to feature integral active steering, while M Sport brakes (with a pair of pedal-feel settings) are also included.
A peek inside the cabin of the new BMW XM
Inside, BMW says the cockpit and front seats are designed “entirely around an active driving experience”. The curved display (formed by a 12.3-inch information monitor and a control display with a screen diagonal of 14.9 inches) as well as the head-up display, for instance, come with M-specific graphics, including shift lights.
The headlining, meanwhile, takes on a three-dimensional prism structure, complete with 100 LED units for illumination. BMW offers a choice of four different trims for customising the interior, as well as a new “vintage leather” for the upper sections of the instrument panel and door panels.
Ambient lighting, 4-zone automatic climate control and a Harman Kardon surround sound system are all standard features, while the options list includes items such as a Bowers & Wilkins Diamond surround sound system with a 1 500-watt amplifier and four additional speakers in the roof.
But wait, there’s more: a 550 kW BMW XM Label Red is coming
If the “standard” output of 480 kW isn’t quite enough for you, we have good news for you: BMW says it will launch the XM Label Red in 2023. This model will arrive as the most powerful road-legal series-produced car in the history of BMW M, offering system outputs of 550 kW and 1 000 Nm.
New BMW M2: SA Price Confirmed
The 2023 BMW M2, which packs 338 kW of power and the option of a manual gearbox, will be arriving in South Africa in the 2nd quarter of next year and, in early December 2022, BMW SA confirmed that the compact sportscar would retail for R1 503 975.
What you see here is the 2023 BMW M2 and despite the early leaks suggesting a quirky design, what we see here is more promising. The newcomer will be assembled at BMW’s plant in Mexico and it’s 104 mm longer, 33 mm wider and 7.6 mm lower than the outgoing model. Interestingly, it has picked up some weight, with BMW claiming 1 730 kg for the manual derivative, while the auto tips the scales at 1 754 kg.
The new BMW M2 faces stiff competition in the form of the Audi RS3 and Mercedes-AMG A45 S. See how they stack up with our Compare Tool.
Speaking of transmissions, BMW says the brand-new M2 will be sold with a 6-speed manual gearbox or an 8-speed automatic. Given SA’s appetite for this model, we expect both derivatives to come to SA. The headline is the engine. It’s the S58, a 3.0-litre turbocharged straight-6 petrol and in this application 338 kW and 550 Nm is offered. That’s 66 kW more than its predecessor and the performance claims are big.
It’s offered with a rear-wheel drive setup and when combined with the manual gearbox, 4.3 seconds to 100 kph is claimed. Go for the 8-speed automatic and the same sprint is dispatched in just 4.1 seconds. A top speed of 250 kph is claimed, but if you go for the M Driver’s Package, 285 kph is attainable.
The 2023 BMW M2 is all about the driving. The auto transmission offers 3 different modes, while the manual ‘box features rev-matching. The steering can be set between Comfort and Sport, and electromagnetically-controlled adaptive suspension is standard. BMW says its Dynamic Stability Control now has an M Dynamic Mode which allows for greater wheel slip.
You can now tweak the brake feel, one for comfort and one for track days. There are some fun features thrown in too, like a drift analyser and there are 10 settings for the M Traction Control. Sport lets you have some fun within reason and a safety net just in case, Track is safeties-off and no holds barred. Factor in additional money for replacement tyres as you commence glorious sideways burnouts.
Inside, there are some new touches. There are two options for seats, but we reckon these M Carbon buckets are where it’s at. Not only do they look great, but they’re also lighter than the standard units and still retain heating and electric adjustability. As far as infotainment goes, the 2023 BMW M2 features the latest iDrive 8 system, with a 12.3-inch info display and a 14.9-inch curved screen.
When is the 2023 BMW M2 Coming to SA?
The 2023 BMW M2 has been confirmed for South Africa and will be arriving in the second quarter of 2023.
BMW M2 Walkaround Video with M Boss
New vehicle sales in South Africa: November 2022
South Africa’s new-vehicle market again outperformed expectations in November 2022. Here’s what you need to know, including the country’s top-selling vehicles and most popular brands…
In November 2022, South Africa’s new-vehicle industry registered yet another month of year-on-year growth – its eleventh on the trot – with total sales growing a significant 18.2% to 49 413 units. This figure furthermore represents a 7.5% improvement over October 2022’s tally.
As Naamsa points out, the market remains surprisingly resilient, continuing to outperform expectations in the face of myriad challenges that include rising interest rates, a drastic increase in load-shedding, high fuel prices, a generally weak economy and ongoing new-vehicle supply constraints. Exports sales, meanwhile, spiked 64.7% year on year to 34 310 units.
Out of the 49 413 total reported registrations in South Africa in November 2022, an estimated 39 998 units (or around 81%) represented dealer sales, with 14.7% coming via the vehicle-rental industry, 2.3% from government and 2.0% from industry corporate fleets.
The new passenger-vehicle market improved 16.9% year on year to 32 859 units, again well supported by the rental industry (which accounted for a healthy 20% of all new passenger-car sales). The light-commercial vehicle segment – which includes bakkies and mini-buses – ended November 2022 on 13 477 registrations, representing a strong year-on-year gain of 20.8%.
Meanwhile, WesBank notes November’s performance represents the second-best month of 2022 thus far, slotting in marginally behind March, when the 50 000-unit barrier was last broken.
“November sales put in a fighting closing period for 2022, displaying the relatively constant recovery of the market throughout the course of the year,” says Lebogang Gaoaketse, Head of Marketing and Communications at WesBank, making reference to the traditional slow-down in sales during December. Still, Gaoaketse makes the point the interest-rate spike will “undoubtedly place the onus on consumers to seriously consider affordability when it comes to applying to finance”.
Mark Dommisse, Chairperson of the National Automobile Dealers’ Association (NADA), welcomes the “pleasant surprise” of relatively strong sales in November.
“We were expecting a similar market to October, considering the negatives affecting the economy and growing political uncertainty in the country, but consumers have once again proved us wrong,” says Dommisse, describing the outcome as “most heartening for all sectors of the industry”.
New vehicle sales summary for November 2022
Aggregate new-vehicle sales of 49 413 units increased by 18.2% (7 618 units) compared to November 2021.
New passenger-vehicle sales of 32 859 units increased by 16.9% (4 759 units) compared to November 2021.
New light-commercial vehicle sales of 13 477 units increased by 20.8% (2 323 units) compared to November 2021.
Export sales of 34 310 units increased by 64.7% (13 479 units) compared to November 2021.
10 best-selling car brands in South Africa for November 2022
Though Haval fell a spot in November 2022, the Chinese brand remained in the top 10.
Toyota continued its climb back towards the record sales numbers it registered just prior to the devastating KwaZulu-Natal floods that caused extensive damage to its Prospecton plant. In November 2022, with production back at full capacity, the Japanese firm’s local division came close to crossing the 14 000-unit threshold, selling more than the second-placed Volkswagen Group (6 406 units), third-placed Suzuki (4 287 units) and fourth-placed Nissan (3 167 units) combined.
Hyundai was again fifth, while Ford climbed one position to sixth, forcing Chinese brand Haval down a spot to seventh. Isuzu held steady in eighth, while Kia and Renault swapped positions, ending the month in ninth and tenth, respectively. With 1 502 units registered, Chery found itself just outside the top 10, while Indian firm Mahindra (1 010 units) was the only other automaker to crack four figures for the month.
1. Toyota – 13 903 units
2. Volkswagen Group – 6 406 units
3. Suzuki – 4 287 units
4. Nissan – 3 167 units
5. Hyundai – 3 002 units
6. Ford – 2 347 units
7. Haval – 2 220 units
8. Isuzu – 2 027 units
9. Kia – 1 892 units
10. Renault – 1 801 units
10 best-selling vehicles in South Africa for November 2022
The Suzuki Swift has become a firm favourite with private and rental-fleet buyers.
No surprises at the very top of the table as the Toyota Hilux (3 408 units) was again South Africa’s best-selling vehicle, and again by quite some margin. The likewise Prospecton-built Toyota Corolla Cross (2 109 units) held steady in a strong second place, while the outgoing Silverton-produced Ford Ranger (1 979 units) gained one spot to finish the month in third.
Rocketing up four places to fourth, the locally assembled Hi-Ace (1 944 units) came exceedingly close to making it an all-Toyota podium, while the Suzuki Swift (1 751 units) moved up a position to fifth. The Volkswagen Polo Vivo (1 741 units) was close behind in sixth, just ahead of the likewise Kariega-manufactured VW Polo hatchback (1 724 units), which made a welcome return to the table in seventh, recovering after placing a lowly 15th in October.
The Struandale-built Isuzu D-Max (1 578 units) fell three places to eighth, while the Toyota Urban Cruiser (1 334 units) – with its future in South Africa currently somewhat uncertain – plummeted six spots to ninth. With 1 322 registrations, the Toyota Starlet returned to claim the final position, meaning there was no space for the Nissan NP200 (1 164 units), which is a fairly unusual occurrence. Other models just outside the top 10 included the Volkswagen T-Cross with 1 046 sales and the Hyundai Grand i10 with 971 units.
Top 8 vehicles exported from South Africa in November 2022
Nearly 10 000 examples of the Polo hatch were exported by VWSA in November 2022.
In November 2022, the Volkswagen Polo hatchback leapt back to the top of the list of exported models, with a whopping 9 790 units shipped overseas from the Kariega facility. The Toyota Hilux (5 466 units) grabbed second place, meaning the Ford Ranger had to settle for third, with 4 299 units exported during the month. As is so often the case, the Isuzu D-Max, Nissan Navara, Nissan NP200, Toyota Fortuner and Toyota Corolla Cross made up the numbers.
It’s also worth noting BMW and Mercedes-Benz did not submit detailed figures to Naamsa, so it’s not known exactly how many new X3 and C-Class sedan units were exported from South African shores in November 2022. For the record, however, Naamsa’s estimates stand at 4 800 units and 8 691 units, respectively.
1. Volkswagen Polo (hatch) – 9 790 units
2. Toyota Hilux – 5 466 units
3. Ford Ranger – 4 299 units
4. Isuzu D-Max – 396 units
5. Nissan Navara – 334 units
6. Nissan NP200 – 172 units
7. Toyota Fortuner – 62 units
8. Toyota Corolla Cross – 54 units
Sales outlook
So, where to from here for the South African market? Well, Naamsa points to the fact the South African Reserve Bank raised the interest rate last month for the seventh consecutive time since November 2021 (and the third consecutive instance of 75 basis points) to its highest level since 2016. Despite this, the new-vehicle market is currently running 13.6% ahead of the corresponding year-to-date period in 2021.
“The recovery in business and leisure travel provided some support to the new-vehicle market to counter the growing pressures on household incomes. GDP growth in South Africa continues to be adjusted downwards and was now expected to be at 1.1% for 2023. In view of the close correlation between new-vehicle sales and the country’s GDP growth rate, single-digit growth in new-vehicle sales could be expected for 2023,” Naamsa cautions.
WesBank echoes Naamsa’s mild concerns for next year, though predicts the market recovery will continue in the short term.
“As consumer confidence grows in the wake of slowly improving economic conditions, we expect the new-vehicle market to continue its recovery. However, the headwinds of load-shedding, the political outlook and the sheer reality of the increased cost of indebtedness will continue to put pressure on just how well new-vehicle sales will perform in 2023,” Gaoaketse explains.
Meanwhile, NADA believes November’s strong sales in the rental sector, as it prepares for what will “hopefully be a bumper festive season”, will have a positive impact on the used market further down the line.
“These sales are important to the second-hand vehicle market, as rental models will filter down to the used-vehicle market in a year or two, helping to alleviate the relative shortage of quality, low-mileage pre-owned models that have been in short supply due to the COVID pandemic and sell-offs by the rental companies,” says Dommisse.
In terms of vehicles exports, Naamsa warns of the impact of “persistently high inflation and aggressive interest-rate hikes in many advanced and developing countries at present”, though still remains optimistic over the medium term. For the record, year-to-date export sales sit at 326 516 units, some 17.9% ahead of the corresponding period in 2021.
Two celebrated South Africans – legendary Generations actor Sello Maake kaNcube and feisty Springbok scrumhalf Faf de Klerk – feature in a national Budget Insurance ad campaign that pulls on the heartstrings and has received enthusiastic responses from the public.
PARTNERED CONTENT
KaNcube and De Klerk have drawn a lot of attention lately, but it had nothing to do with Principal Thobakgale or the Springboks’ European tour. Instead, our national treasures starred in a pair of Budget Insurance ads that remind us “bad things happen to good South Africans.”
In the first ad, kaNcube is depicted as one of the good South Africans who are insured by Budget Insurance (the company styles itself as the “Official Good South Africans Insurer”). The legendary actor is shown being mistaken for his well-known character in the Generations TV soap opera wherever he goes, which he accepts with frustration (but good grace, of course) even after his car gets stolen.
“KaNcube is a hardworking actor who has played thousands of roles yet continues to be referred to as Archie – a nod to his legendary role of Archie Moroka. Even ama 2000 get the reference – Archie is iconic,” says Susan Steward, head of marketing at Budget Insurance.
De Klerk, in turn, has put his 5-foot-7.5-inch (1.71m) body on the line for our national rugby team on many occasions. He famously “broke the internet” by wearing swim briefs in the colours of the national flag following South Africa’s Rugby World Cup victory in 2019 and, in the second Budget Insurance ad, he sports his cheeky apparel again (“with our national treasure on his, um, national treasures”).
“When Faf’s double-cab bakkie is involved in an accident, he’s reminded that when bad things happen, Budget doesn’t faf around,” Steward adds.
Budget Insurance has been a partner of Cars.co.za for approximately 2.5 years, during which time it has sponsored our Car Insurance page (get a quote and save!), been a primary sponsor of videos reviews on our YouTube channel (with in excess of 333k subscribers) and has shared several articles – that offer consumers valuable advice on car insurance – with our site (we list them at the end of this article).
A few Twitter reactions to the ads:
The new @budgetins advert featuring "Archie" – @sellomkn is dope too!!!! 'Who would steal Archie's car, maan?!' 😅😂🤣
New Lamborghini Huracán Sterrato Primed for Gravel Travel
Like Porsche’s freshly minted 911 Dakar, the new V10-powered Lamborghini Huracán Sterrato is effectively a supercar capable of heading off the beaten track…
Not content to let Volkswagen Group sibling Porsche have all the fun with its freshly revealed 911 Dakar, Lamborghini has whipped the wraps off the new Huracán Sterrato, which will go into production from February 2023.
Just 1 499 units will be built, which makes it even more exclusive than the 911 Dakar. At this stage, it’s not clear whether any units are destined for South Africa.
According to the Italian firm, each example will combine the driving experience of a supercar with that of a rally car, allowing for oodles of thrills whether tackling tarmac or gravel. It could, of course, turn out to be the final model variant in the Huracán range – and perhaps even the last of the atmospheric V10 – before its successor debuts.
The Huracán Sterrato is powered by the company’s naturally aspirated 5.2-litre V10 petrol engine, which here sends 449 kW and 565 Nm to all four wheels through a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission and benefits from a mechanical self-locking differential at the rear. Lamborghini says it will complete the 0-100 kph sprint in 3.4 seconds, before topping out at 260 kph (a figure likely stunted by those special all-terrain tyres).
What makes a Huracán Sterrato off-road ready?
The ground clearance has been increased by 44 mm compared with the Huracán Evo, while the front and rear track widths grow by 30 mm and 34 mm, respectively. The Sant’Agata Bolognese-based firm’s designers have furthermore added aluminium underbody protection, reinforced sills, a rear diffuser and prominent wheel-arch extensions, along with extra LEDs on the front end, roof rails and a scoop feeding clean air to the rear-mounted engine.
The braking system comprises aluminium fixed monoblock callipers with six pistons fore and four pistons aft, along with ventilated and cross-drilled carbon-ceramic discs measuring 380 mm in diameter and with a 38 mm thickness at the front, and 356 mm diameter and 32 mm thickness at the rear.
The brakes are framed by 19-inch rims wrapped in “custom-engineered” Bridgestone Dueler AT002 tyres that measure 235/40 R19 on the front axle and 285/40 R19 at the rear. Interestingly, Lamborghini has gone for run-flat technology, guaranteeing a minimum of 80 km of travel at 80 kph with zero pressure.
The Sterrato furthermore comes with an updated version of the Lamborghini Integrated Vehicle Dynamics system, with specific Strada and Sport calibrations. It also gains a new Rally mode for “low-grip conditions”.
Inside, you’ll find Alcantara Verde Sterrato upholstery, along with new graphics for the infotainment system. In addition, the instruments feature a digital inclinometer complete with pitch-and-roll indicator, a compass, geographic co-ordinate indicator and steering-angle indicator.
Drive to Revive Ep2 – We Race in the World’s first GR Yaris Cup
Our Stig that talks, Ashley Oldfield, stepped up against multiple national champion Deon Joubert and several other racing journalists in Cape Town. Does he have what it takes as he claims to be SA’s fastest motoring journalist?
We follow the new Toyota GR Cup series with a blow-by-blow account from the driver’s seat of what goes through the head of a racing driver when the pressure is ramped up to maximum.
Keep a look out for the upcoming videos as the season unfolds with driver scuffles, bumps and bashes as rivalries develop.
The Renault Trafic badge has made a return to South Africa. Here’s how much you’ll pay for this fresh-faced, diesel-powered panel van…
Renault South Africa has added the updated Trafic light-commercial vehicle to its range, with the panel van available locally only in long-wheelbase form.
In years gone by, previous versions of the Trafic panel van were available in South Africa (along with an MPV version), though total sales – across two generations – come in at just 555 units. This is bakkie country, after all.
Still, the French firm’s local division will be hoping the freshened-up version will prove a little more popular as it heads into a fight with the likes of the Volkswagen Transporter panel van, Ford Transit Custom, Mercedes-Benz Vito panel van, Hyundai Staria panel van, Opel Vivaro Cargo, Toyota Quantum panel van and Peugeot Boxer.
Priced at R599 999, the Trafic is powered by a 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine (dubbed the “dCi 170”), which drives the front axle through a 6-speed manual gearbox. Peak outputs come in at 125 kW and 380 Nm, while Renault claims a combined fuel economy figure of 7.2 litres per 100 km. Fitted with an 80-litre tank, that translates to a theoretical range of well over 1 000 km.
The Trafic’s middle seat folds down to form a temporary workspace.
Measuring 5 480 mm from nose to tail, the long-wheelbase Trafic boasts what Renault describes as the “best load length in the segment” (at 4 150 mm), while the payload is listed as 1 279 kg. The load area is accessible via a sliding door on one flank or a pair of swing doors at the rear.
Up front, you’ll find three seats and plenty of clever storage options (including a drawer under the passenger bench), along with items such as a revised dashboard and new instrument panel. Standard features include electrically adjustable side mirrors, cloth upholstery and a basic audio system with integrated R&Go radio and Bluetooth plus USB and auxiliary ports. In addition, the middle seat’s backrest can fold down to form a makeshift workspace.
The Trafic is available in two exterior paint colours, both non-metallic: Ice Cool White and Cumulus Blue.
How much does the Renault Trafic panel van cost in South Africa?
Renault Trafic 2.0 dCi panel van – R599 999
A 5-year/150 000 km warranty and a 5-year/90 000 km service plan (with intervals of 15 000 km) are included in the purchase price.
Subaru’s Impreza WRX (known simply as the WRX since 2014) is an icon of the performance motoring world, but given the prevalence of hyper hatchbacks, is there still a place for a hot sedan with a 6-speed manual ‘box and, can it fill the gaping hole left by the previous generation WRX STI? We get behind the wheel of the three-pedal-equipped 2022 Subaru WRX 2.4T.
We like: Performance, engine sound, handling, comfort, fun factor, refinement
Let this sink in: the WRX is the fastest new Subaru you can buy. Rumours of an upcoming WRX STI version persist, but Subaru has officially stated that it won’t build a halo version (it’s apparently saving the STI badge for an electrified future model). Still, the WRX attempts to represent what the Japanese brand does best: performance, technology and handling galore. For 2022, there’s a new 2.4-litre flat-4 turbopetrol engine, available with either a 6-speed manual ‘box or a CVT.
The newcomer’s exterior styling is, well, interesting; it looks purposeful, with rallycross-aping flared wheel arches that are finished in black, combined with a large rear diffuser, again in black, but the overall effect is strangely restrained. During the WRX 2.4T’s tenure in our test fleet, it drew a variety of opinions – positive, neutral and negative. Clearly, it doesn’t appeal to everyone, but if it were up to us, we’d add more body colour to the rear bumper – it does look a tad unfinished.
The rallycross-style black wheel arches are a cool touch.
If you have around R800 000 to spend on a new vehicle and want to buy something fast and fun, petrolheads still have some excellent models to choose from. Granted, the majority of these are hot hatchbacks and not quite as practical as the Subaru sedan. The 8th iteration of the market’s perennial favourite, Volkswagen’s Golf GTI, is easy to recommend by virtue of its combination of style, luxury, sufficiently urgent performance, crisp handling and, of course, all-round usability.
But for outright driver engagement, the Hyundai i30 N and Kona N are arguably two of the most exciting and thrilling products to have hit local shores. If you’re a purist and want the full manual experience, then consider the outgoing Honda Civic Type R. If all-wheel drive is a must-have, then the Audi S3, BMW M135i xDrive and Volkswagen Golf R are worth a look, but they are significantly more expensive. The Mercedes-AMG A45 S is in another league altogether.
Under the bonnet of the Subaru WRX 2.4T sits a bigger-capacity engine. Throughout its history, the WRX has been served (and dutifully so) by a 2.0-litre horizontally opposed 4-cylinder turbopetrol motor. Now, for 2022, there’s a new 2.4-litre flat-4 (or “Boxer”) engine on duty. While the WRX’s peak outputs have not changed radically, the motor is more flexible, which is to say performance is more accessible. Maximum torque comes in earlier and lasts longer (2 000 to 5 200 rpm).
A blue exterior finish with bonnet scoop. All that’s missing are gold wheels!
A performance model equipped with a manual gearbox is a rarity in 2022. Dual-clutch automatic transmissions produce rapid, snappy gear shifts on demand, but they don’t demand any concentration or effort on the part of the driver; the hardware does all the work. With the current crop of German hatches, going fast has never been easier. Push a few buttons to arm the launch control, mash the accelerator and release the brake pedal. It’s fun, but requires no driving skill.
Getting a launch start right with the Subaru WRX is a different matter altogether; it requires practice, patience (and, if you have it, skill), but it’s so satisfying when you get it right. Set stability control to Sport, let the revs climb to 4 500 rpm, dump the clutch and feel the Japanese sedan bolt from the line as if it’s been flung from a catapult. Our testing gear recorded 1.25g on full acceleration! Don’t enjoy the moment too much as you’ll soon reach for the next gear, and repeat.
There’s a handy turbo boost gauge at the top and centre of the instrument cluster.
The manual-equipped WRX 2.4T felt quick and energetic during the performance testing section of the review programme, but when we consulted the numbers, we were a trifle disappointed. A 0-100 kph time of 6.49 sec and a quarter mile time of 14.25 sec aren’t slow, but considering what modern performance hatchbacks are capable of – or even previous-gen WRX and WRX STIs, for that matter – we felt underwhelmed. Twenty years ago, these things were doing mid-5s.
For what it’s worth, Subaru claims a 0-100 kph time of around 6 sec and we reckon we could shave a tenth or two off our time, but that would inflict additional (and unnecessary) wear and tear on the clutch of Subaru SA’s marketing unit.
A manual gearbox in a performance car in 2022? What a refreshing throwback.
So, why has the WRX “lost a step”? Well, 2 factors are at play. First of all, the WRX is no longer a lightweight athlete; with a kerb weight of around 1600 kg, it’s significantly heavier than before. Secondly, the 6-speed gearbox has short ratios that require a shift into 3rd gear to reach 100 kph. Each gear change probably costs a tenth of a second. We tried holding onto 2nd for as long as possible, but the limiter kicks in agonisingly close to 100 kph; you simply have to grab 3rd.
The shift action of the manual transmission is typical of a Subaru “stick shift”; it has a meaty throw, allied with a heavy-duty clutch. It’s good, but not quite as polished or direct as something like the Honda Civic Type R’s ‘box. There are pros and cons to having short ratios… Let’s get the bad news out of the way first. Even in 6th gear and at the national speed limit, the revs sit a bit higher than expected (at around 3000 rpm), which means the WRX isn’t an ideal open-road cruiser.
The WRX good-looking multifunction steering wheel has solid-feeling buttons – it’s wonderfully uncomplicated.
But, this is offset by the pros. The short ratios have helped immensely to improve the immediacy/responsiveness of the powertrain. Turbo lag is significantly curtailed – to overtake slower traffic, simply flatten the accelerator pedal. There’s no need to gear down or wait for an auto ‘box to select the appropriate gear, the WRX just pulls. Tractability is excellent, and even at 65 kph in its highest gear, the WRX does not hesitate in piling on the power and spearing towards the horizon.
12.1 L/100 km was the lowest indicated fuel consumption figure that we could achieve.
Because we drove the WRX enthusiastically, we saw an indicated fuel consumption of 14 L/100 km on the trip computer, which we managed to get down to 12 by the end of the test. Still, it’s a fair bit higher than the claimed 9.9 L/100 km.
Our unit also came fitted with an optional sports exhaust, which addresses one of the criticisms of the CVT-equipped tS ES derivative we reviewed recently – that test unit’s pipes just sounded far too subdued. This new “plumbing” is excellent; it adds a terrific bass rumble and some burbles when you downshift. It can get a bit tiresome on the open road, but we drowned out the drone with the excellent Harmon Kardon audio system.
Ride and handling
Suffice it to say, the WRX features a well-sorted all-wheel drivetrain (it’s the model’s unique selling point) and the sedan’s handling ability is staggeringly impressive, although not surprising, given the lofty levels of grip it has at its disposal. We utilise a well-maintained and suitably squiggly stretch of road for dynamic testing that comprises some elevation changes and, when the WRX traversed that course, it didn’t disappoint in the least. One of the best parts of the WRX is its all-weather capability… We get the impression that the WRX could confidently charge through some switchbacks with confidence, even if it was raining heavily or the tar surface devolved to gravel – no similarly-priced rival models can hope to match that.
The 18-inch alloys provide a good blend of comfort and sportiness.
The WRX rides on 18-inch alloys wrapped in 245/40 rubber. Okay, the tyres do generate road noise, but not to such an extent that it reduces comfort levels. Interestingly, the manual version misses out on the tS ES’ adaptive dampers, but the ride quality is not harsh/overly compromised; it proves you can blend comfort and dynamics near-perfectly. We’re delighted to say this is the first WRX in a while that gets close to its illustrious progenitors in terms of engagement and thrills.
One can tell that the Toyota GR86 is a cousin of the WRX – they share some design elements.
The other factors contributing to the Subaru’s excellent ride and handling balance include the new underpinnings, which feel rigid and well-damped, while the steering setup offers plenty of feel and responsiveness. The brakes are excellent too, with the WRX able to scrub off speed rapidly while remaining poised. This is a great recipe and we feel that without too much effort, Subaru could easily rustle up a fire-breathing STI for one last hurrah… Come on, we know they want to.
Features, tech and safety features
Recent iterations of the WRX have been generously equipped with standard features, and the new model is no exception, although the automatic version is definitely more liberally specced (it does, for the record, cost R78k more).
To reiterate, there are 2 derivatives in the range – the 2.4T manual and 2.4T tS ES automatic (Lineartronic CVT) – with the latter offering selectable drive modes, adaptive suspension, a memory function for the electrically adjustable driver’s seat, an electric parking brake, reverse automatic braking and the latest version of Subaru’s camera-based Eyesight safety system (4.0).
The seats are comfortable and supportive, with heating functionality.
Convenience features in the WRX 2.4T manual include a sunroof, keyless entry and start, an 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system with built-in navigation (it’s Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible), a 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio setup, heated front seats (the driver’s seat is electrically adjustable), aluminium pedals, a reverse-view camera, dual-zone climate control, plus auto lights and -wipers. Rear passengers are availed a pair of heating elements (with individual control buttons), as well as 2 USB ports with which they can charge their electronic devices.
The infotainment system looks impressive with its portrait orientation, but isn’t the most user-friendly, at least not at first. Still, after a few days, we got to grips with the interface of the menu system and we appreciate the fact that the Apple CarPlay/Android Auto display is neatly integrated within the native layout of the infotainment screen – as opposed to replacing it entirely.
The WRX comes fitted with no fewer than 8 airbags, a driver monitoring system, brake vectoring and auto vehicle hold, as well as the usual ABS with EBD and brake-assist, traction and -stability control.
The infotainment system looks good, but its menu system is quirky.
Packaging and Practicality
We anticipate that one of the best aspects of the Subaru WRX ownership will be the generous occupant space and practicality the sedan body offers. Yes, “booted cars” are not as popular as they once were, but there’s no denying their spaciousness – the WRX is one of the few models in its class that can accommodate an entire set of golf clubs widthways! The boot capacity is a claimed 423 litres and the rear seatback can be folded forward to create additional utility space.
Rear occupants don’t get dedicated ventilation outlets, but 2 USB ports are provided and the bench features a pair of heating elements.
When you climb into the back, you’ll find the rear space is commendable with adequate headroom and legroom for taller adults. The front passengers have numerous storage solutions available, with plenty of oddment spaces to store devices, keys, remotes and so on. Everything feels solid and made of premium materials too, and despite having a 14 000 km reading on its odometer, the test unit’s cabin exhibited no rattles or squeaks.
The rear seats are comfortable and space generous.
Subaru WRX Price and After-sales support
The Subaru WRX 2.4T manual is priced from R799 000 and is sold with a 5-year/150 000 km warranty and a 3-year/75 000 km maintenance plan.
Verdict
It may have lost some of its outrageous looks and pace over the years, but the Subaru WRX 2.4T represents the closest you’ll get to the original Subaru WRX (or WRX STI) experience in a new vehicle, plus it’s a lot more luxurious, refined and sophisticated than its predecessors. Yes, it is a gentler/more mature and well-rounded offering… much like the members of the Cars.co.za test team – and we do enjoy heady performance, but not at the expense of comfort and practicality.
This is the closest we’ll get to the iconic WRX of years ago.
Should you buy one? It’s difficult to argue against the sheer array of talents that the WRX 2.4T manual offers at this price point. R800k gets you into a performance sedan with all-weather and all-road ability (well on asphalt and gravel routes, anyway), plenty of tech and room for 4/5 occupants and their luggage. Yes, a manual transmission seems anachronistic, but if you appreciate the art of driving, then it becomes the default choice, because the pricier tS ES automatic seems like a swift business-class sedan alternative by comparison and its character is more laid back. Do the right thing and tick the performance exhaust system option for an additional R12 000 – you will revel in that urgent, grumbly flat-4 soundtrack.
For performance fans, the fact that the WRX 2.4T is the most potent version of the model we’re likely to see for a while, if not ever, is a disappointment. The WRX’s chassis is so good, it can easily handle more power and we don’t think it would not have cost Subaru a fortune to develop a WRX STI version. However, once you look beyond the WRX and its immediate rivals (to the realm of the hyper hatchbacks/sedans), the cars’ performance abilities go up dramatically, but so do their prices. Such machines are so potent that you can only use a fraction of their power before you’re travelling at illegal speeds. The WRX, then, is a measured product; if you want more punch, leave it to the tuners – some buyers will.
