Opel Corsa (2024) Review

The Opel Corsa faces stiff competition from the Volkswagen Polo and an array of small crossovers. We review the facelifted 1.2T GS Line to determine whether this German B-segment hatchback still has much to offer, or whether the market has left it behind.

We like: Spritely performance, engaging drive, fit and finish, relatively good value.

We don’t like: Uninspiring interior, cramped rear occupant space.

FAST FACTS

Model: Opel Corsa 1.2T GS Line
Price: R459 900 (July 2024)
Engine: 1.2-litre 3-cylinder turbopetrol
Power/Torque: 96 kW/230 Nm
0-100 kph: 8.7 sec (claimed)
Claimed fuel consumption: 6.3 L/100 km
Luggage capacity: 309-1081 litres (approx. utility space)

Serious about buying/selling?

Some dealerships regularly offer great deals. See our New Car Specials!

Looking to sell your car? Sell it on Cars.co.za for free

Where does the Opel Corsa facelift fit in?

The Opel Corsa is a veteran of the (once flourishing) compact hatchback segment. This model’s Corsa E predecessor notably won the compact hatchback category of the 2016/17 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards.

For much of the 21st century, 5-door B-segment cars were the most popular offerings in the new-vehicle market, but recently key players have either been withdrawn from South Africa (Kia Rio) – or cancelled globally (Ford Fiesta). It’s a pity, but we can see why brands have changed tack to suit market conditions.

New-vehicle customers now prefer compact hatchbacks with raised ride heights – crossovers are all the rage. But, if you glance at the sales figures, you’ll see there is still some demand for the good ol’ hatch.

The F-generation Corsa is an attractively styled hatchback, especially with a bi-tone colour scheme.

The Opel Corsa facelift squares off with the Volkswagen Polo and Hyundai i20, with this turbopetrol 1.2T GS Line lining up against the 1.0TSI 85kW R-Line and 1.0T N Line. The Opel’s cousin – the Peugeot 208 1.2T GT – is also an option and, given the former’s sporty bent, consider the outgoing Suzuki Swift Sport, which is similarly priced. If an automatic transmission is not a must-have, consider the Renault Clio.

Compare the Opel Corsa’s specs with those of its Volkswagen Polo and Hyundai i20 counterparts

So, what’s incorporated in the updated model? Well, the Opel Corsa facelift features revised front-end styling, is offered in conjunction with an expanded colour palette, and the cabin has received a new-look steering wheel and upgraded tech, such as a bigger infotainment screen and a digital instrument cluster.

How the Opel Corsa fares in terms of…

Performance and Efficiency

The EB2DTS 1.2-litre 3-cylinder turbopetrol engine does duty in several Stellantis Group products. We’ve had considerable experience with this powertrain over the years and, in this application, it continues to impress. With outputs of 96 kW and 230 Nm of torque, it outguns its 2 nearest rivals (the Polo and i20).

2024 Opel Corsa facelift front three-quarter view. — *The facelifted model is distinguished by a closed-off grille and new-look daytime running lights.*

And, during its tenure in our test fleet, the Opel performed spiritedly! According to our equipment, the test unit dispatched the 0-100 kph sprint in 9.07 sec. The 1.2T GS Line is marketed as the sporty-looking flagship of the range, but we didn’t expect such fiery acceleration from the range-topping Corsa. It’s not purported to be a lukewarm hatch, but anything in this segment that hits 100 kph under 9.5 sec is quick.

2024 Opel Corsa facelift transmission lever. — *The 6-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and when you expect it to.*

It’s not just about the get-up-and-go either – the 1.2T GS Line delivers relatively generous in-gear shove, which facilitates brisk overtaking manoeuvres when required. With 230 Nm available from just 1 750 rpm, the engine doesn’t need to be worked hard to perform spiritedly. The 6-speed auto ‘box is well calibrated with the 3-cylinder mill and shifts smoothly, but when it needs to kick down in a hurry, it reacts promptly.

With a 44-litre tank and a claimed fuel consumption of 6.3 L/100 km, the 1.2T GS Line has a theoretical full-to-empty range of just under 700 km. Based on our experience, the Opel’s consumption is more likely to hover around the 7.5 L/100 km mark, but if you’re willing to adopt a measured, efficiency-minded driving style, the Corsa facelift can be reasonably frugal. At one stage, we saw an indicated 5.8 L/100 km.

*The Corsa can achieve miserly fuel economy, but it’s unnatural to drive in that manner all the time…*

Design, Features and Practicality

The revised front-end styling of the Opel Corsa facelift looks smart and adopts design elements from the boldly styled Mokka – we love the blade-like DRLs. Also, the metallic grey paint finish colour combines beautifully with the black bi-tone roof, sporty wheels, twin exhausts and rear wing. It’s a pity there won’t be a hotter version of this is an attractive hatchback, such a car would have the go to match the show!

2024 Opel Corsa facelift headlamp — *We love the look of the new-look daytime running lights.*

Peugeot/Citroen developed the Common Modular Platform (CMP) under the auspices of the PSA Group before it was incorporated into Stellantis in 2021. This versatile platform underpins no fewer than 13 internal combustion-engined vehicles in the group, ranging from the Opel Corsa… to the Jeep Avenger.

But, if you’re a die-hard Opel fan, you’re likely to be disappointed that the Russelsheim-based brand’s compact hatchback’s mechanical configuration is not distinctive from those of its Stellantis counterparts. Yes, it’s essentially a re-badged Peugeot 208, but you can apply the same argument to the Volkswagen Golf and Audi A3, to name one example. They’re much the same product – but with different executions.

With a wheelbase of 2 540 mm, which is shorter than those of its nearest rivals, the Corsa’s cabin is not particularly spacious, especially for rear occupants. When we attempted to sit behind the driver’s seat that had been set up to accommodate a reasonably tall adult male, we found the Opel’s rear legroom rather limited/best suited to seat children. Also, the 417-litre load-bay capacity is not generous either.

2024 Opel Corsa facelift rear bench. — *Rear legroom is limited; the rear bench is best suited for seating children.*

At the front, the simple but elegant fascia features a 10-inch infotainment touchscreen and a 7-inch digital instrument cluster. The GS Line trim includes cloth-faux leather trim, auto aircon and heated seats.

Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity, USB ports, front and rear parking- and tyre pressure sensors, traffic sign recognition and autonomous emergency braking are just some of the tech highlights.

*The level of safety tech fitted to the 1.2T GS Line is better than most models in the compact hatchback segment.*

We suspect that this vehicle was one of the early homologation units because its features list didn’t quite line up with what Opel SA is selling. It had the 1.2T GS Line’s exterior treatment and engine, but the cabin was a blend of mid-spec Edition and GS Line features. Sadly, our “Frankensteinian” unit didn’t have the heated seats – they would have been welcome, given the icy conditions in the Western Cape in mid-July.

As for criticisms of the interior, we don’t have many. Our biggest one is that compared with the exterior look, which is extroverted, the Corsa’s black-on-black interior is a bit predictable. Also, the cabin design lacks some flair – there are no chrome-look or faux carbon-fibre accents, just gloss black plastic. Pity.

2024 Opel Corsa facelift driver's view — *The cabin feels suitably well-made, but it lacks personality.*

The interior of the Opel Corsa facelift may lack a bit of razzmatazz, but it makes up for that with good ergonomics and an admirable level of fit-and-finish. The buttons on the steering wheel, for example, feel premium/well-weighted by compact hatchback standards. Some luxury brands should take note of that…

Happily, the Corsa does not echo Peugeot’s love-it-or-hate-it i-Cockpit setup (one in which a strangely positioned steering wheel may obscure most of the instrument cluster – unless you don’t mind driving with the tiller “on your lap”). That’s impressive, considering the Corsa and 208 are closely related. While the Peugeot’s interior has a quirky vibe to it, we’d rather have the Corsa’s more conventional layout.

Ride and Handling

To reiterate, the 1.2T GS Line is meant to look sporty, but it’s not engineered to offer a heightened level of driver engagement. However, thanks to its CMP underpinnings, the Opel Corsa facelift is more fun to drive than we expected it would be. Even though the previous-gen Corsa didn’t feel cumbersome on the road, it was a bit dull to drive; since Stellantis took over, the new-gen Corsa has seemed notably wieldier.

*These sporty wheels look great and do their bit to soak up the bumps*.

The surprisingly nimble handling does not come at the cost of ride comfort. The suspension is slightly firmly sprung, but well damped. We’re firm believers in driving slower cars fast, as opposed to the other way around. You WILL get a little thrill when cornering a little faster than usual. The steering is pleasingly weighted, accurate and direct, which means that the Opel Corsa facelift is easy to place on the road.

*No fancy touchpads here, just pleasing tactile buttons*

Importantly, the Russelsheim-based brand’s compact hatchback excels on the daily commute, where its 16-inch alloys – wrapped in suitably plump 195/55 tyres – help to soak up most road imperfections. Truly, the ingredients for a well-balanced warm hatch are already mostly in place here… Come on Opel, if you build the Grandland‘s 1.6-litre turbopetrol into the Corsa, you’d produce a genuine rival to the Polo GTI.

Price and After-sales support

The Corsa 1.2T GS Line retails for R459 900 (July 2024) and comes with a 5-year/100 000 km warranty and a 3-year/45 000 km service plan.

Verdict

2024 Opel Corsa facelift rear three-quarter view

We live in an era in which new small crossovers/compact family cars/baby SUVs are being rolled out almost every month and the makers of those models spend big on marketing on traditional- and social media platforms. The result is saturation; if you’re not in the limelight, you can be quickly forgotten.

The Opel Corsa deserves more success because it’s a genuinely good car. In this case, the 1.2T GS Line is both quicker and better equipped (in terms of safety and tech) than its Volkswagen Polo and Hyundai i20 counterparts. To spec a Polo derivative to about the same level as the Corsa range-topper, you’ll have to breach the R500 000 mark – and still won’t have heated seats! If you’re shopping for a new compact hatchback, remember to take a 2nd look at this Corsa. It may surprise you – it surprised us.

Want to buy a new or used Opel? Browse vehicles for sale

The latest Opel news and reviews

Volkswagen Touareg (2024) Price & Specs

The facelifted Volkswagen Touareg will be on sale in South Africa from the beginning of August 2024. Here’s a quick look at the pricing and what’s on offer.

The facelifted Volkswagen Touareg is Wolfsburg’s answer to the luxury SUV segment and if your money isn’t going to either the BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE or Audi Q7, then Volkswagen hopes you’ll take a second look at its offering.

Visually, the update comprises changes both inside and out with the exterior design gaining an overhaul. There are new-look IQ.Light HD matrix headlights which are more effective, new daytime running lights and the rear gains that in-fashion LED lightbar. There are new-look bumpers at the front and rear and the Volkswagen logo is illuminated at night.

Step inside and both the features list and trim have been enhanced. There’s an upgraded voice control system, more powerful USB-C connection ports, while the cabin benefits from more plush materials.

Customers will be able to choose from two trim levels, however the supplied information didn’t clarify between the two to justify the R300 000 difference. We’ll update this article as soon as the configurator goes live.

As before, the Touareg is powered by a 3.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine which makes 190 kW and 600 Nm. The car features permanent all-wheel drive as well as an 8-speed automatic transmission.

How much does the 2024 VW Touareg cost in South Africa?

The facelifted Volkswagen Touareg ships standard with a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan, a 3-year/120 000 km warranty, a 12-year anti-corrosion warranty and a space-saver spare wheel.

3.0 V6 TDI 190kW (Elegance)	R1 457 900
3.0 V6 TDI 190kW (R-Line)	R1 763 900

Want to purchase a new or used Volkswagen? Browse stock for sale

Read the latest Volkswagen news and reviews

Toyota Starlet Cross (2024) Launch Review

The Starlet Cross has superseded the Urban Cruiser as Toyota South Africa Motors’ most affordable small crossover. We drove the newcomer up in Gauteng this week.

We escaped a sodden Cape Town in favour of sunny Pretoria and our mission was simple: sample what (spoiler alert!) would immediately become one of the best-value vehicles on sale in South Africa and one that I fully expected would sell like proverbial hotcakes. I refer, of course, to the new Toyota Starlet Cross.

Now, as new as the Starlet Cross is to Toyota, it is, in fact, the twin under the skin of the Suzuki Fronx, which was launched in SA last year. Here, sans comical nameplate and Suzuki emblems, the Starlet Cross retails from just under R300k to R360k depending on which type of ‘box and trim grade you want.

All derivatives are powered by one of the SA vehicle market’s ubiquitous drivetrains: Suzuki’s naturally aspirated 1.5-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine paired with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. That combo does duty in a wide assortment of Toyota and Suzuki small passenger cars, including the latter marque’s iconic Jimny off-roader. That’s certainly a testament to its robustness and a known entity when it comes to the after-sales experience which is, frankly, what Toyota truly excels at.

Budget crossovers are getting better – and multiplying

Before we get to the car itself, let’s reiterate that the B-SUV segment (in which the Starlet Cross and its Fronx half-sibling operate) – budget crossovers – is one of the liveliest ones in the South African new-vehicle market. Suzuki has been a force here – really opening it up with that initial Vitara Brezza model, which Toyota would eventually commandeer as its Urban Cruiser. We’ve compared those old models.

We’ve also seen Renault and Nissan enter the fray with the Indian-built Kiger and its cousin, the Magnite, as well as freshly minted models from China, such as the Haval Jolion, Chery Tiggo 4 Pro and Omoda C5. But I’d argue that the Fronx and this, the smartly titled Starlet Cross, are the most compelling offerings.

The Cross moniker has long been synonymous with hatchbacks that have been given an off-road flavour – think black body cladding, grey skid plates and a slightly raised body – so to tag this suffix to Toyota’s volume-selling Starlet, which won the budget car category of the 2020/21 #CarsAwards, makes sense.

Then there’s the fact that it shares the eye-catching coupe-like profile of its half-sibling, which makes it an even more attractive prospect. And, considering that the new Starlet Cross is meant to appeal to a youthful and adventurous demographic, specifically hikers, bikers and a veritable smorgasbord of other kinds of “outdoorsy types” between the ages of 25 and 39, I think they’ve well and truly nailed the brief.

Visually, there’s not much between the Starlet Cross and Suzuki Fronx beyond different badges and logos, save for a unique light signature (LEDs at the rear) and bumper layout. Like the Fronx, the Starlet Cross has a 3-dimensional trapezoidal grille (flipped vertically in this case), an assortment of sporty skid plates and garnishes including the non-functional roof rails and a chrome beltline along its profile.

At each corner, you’ll find a chunky 16-inch inch alloy wheel, while the body itself can be had in a choice of 6 monochrome paint finishes in base XS trim. If you opt for a pricier XR variant, however, you’ll have the extra option of your choice of 3 bi-tone paint jobs for an even trendier aesthetic, if that suits you.

Climb aboard and you’ll encounter a pleasant cabin featuring black and, um, berry compote-hued fabric seats, a leathery helm and a continuation of the chrome accents from the exterior. Under the bonnet, the 1.5-litre mill avails 77 kW/138 Nm to your right foot, irrespective of which transmission you’ve opted for.

We’re not breaking new ground here – this is a tried and tested urban runabout in a fresh suit. A manual variant will reportedly consume a miserly 5.6 litres per 100 km, with the auto delivering a return of 5.8. There are no surprises to report, the Starlet Cross driving experience was precisely what we expected it would be: predictable and honest. It’s a capable handler, and fairly confident on asphalt or gravel roads.

Sure, it won’t light a fire in your belly, but it will get you to your destination in relative comfort – and well-entertained, thanks to a 9-inch infotainment screen on our XR test unit (the XS gets a 7-inch item), in-car wifi, wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto, wireless charging (XR) and more. USB ports run rife fore and aft in the cabin, with good safety tech, including 6 airbags and a 360-degree camera (on the XR).

The auto aircon serves all passengers thanks to rear vents; occupant- and luggage space is satisfactory.

How much does the new Toyota Starlet Cross cost in SA?

Starlet Cross 1.5 XS manual	R299 900
Starlet Cross 1.5 XS auto	R322 300
Starlet Cross 1.5 XR manual	R339 300
Starlet Cross 1.5 XR auto	R359 300

Prices (in July 2024) include a 3-year/100 000 km warranty and a 4-services/60 000 km service plan.

Summary

We spent half a day navigating bristling city centres and the suburbs before trundling along rural- and farm roads in the Toyota Starlet. But it didn’t take more than a few moments behind the ‘wheel to suss out that the model is likely to be a sales smash for Toyota. When the 2nd-gen Urban Cruiser became a bigger, more grown-up car than its predecessor, it left a gap that the chic Starlet Cross has now filled.

Yes, it’s budget-friendly and reasonably practical, but also attractively styled to appeal to the young –and young at heart. As I did for its Fronx half-sibling, I wholeheartedly endorse the Starlet Cross as a simple, honest small crossover that straddles the line between cheap and cheerful, but promises to be a good investment (if such a thing can exist in the world of depreciating assets) – that is the Toyota way.

Isuzu D-Max 45 Limited Edition (2024) Price & Specs

The Isuzu D-Max 45 Limited Edition double-cab has been revealed to celebrate 45 years of the brand producing bakkies in South Africa. Here’s how much it costs…

Isuzu has been building bakkies in South Africa for 45 years and has just unwrapped a special new double cab to celebrate this milestone. Just 105 examples of the Isuzu D-Max 45 Limited Edition – each built at the Japanese firm’s Struandale plant in the Eastern Cape – will be available on the local market from the end of July 2024.

Listed as the D-Max 3.0TD LSE 45 4×4 6AT, this new derivative is priced from R906 100 and thus commands a R36 600 premium over the D-Max 3.0TD LSE 4×4 6AT (R869 500) on which it’s based. As such, the limited-run variant is positioned below the V-Cross 4×4 (R916 400) and AT35 4×4 (R1 170 339).

So, what makes a D-Max 45 Limited Edition? Well, this special model scores a Rhinoman Xpedition canopy, spray-on bedliner, tailgate assist, a black X-Rider-style grille and 18-inch black alloy wheels (plus, of course, special “45” badging on the rear), along with a wireless smartphone charger and “Bundu Basher” rubber floor mats in the cabin. The limited-production derivative will be available in Splash White, Mercury Silver, Islay Grey, Desert Orange and Biarritz Blue.

Since it’s based on the LSE grade, standard features include items such as a leather-wrapped steering wheel, partial-leather seats, an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen, rear parking sensors, a reverse-view camera and various driver assistance features (think blind-spot monitoring, rear-cross traffic alert and the like).

The powertrain, of course, is unchanged, which means the D-Max 45 Limited Edition draws its urge from Isuzu’s familiar 3.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine. Driving all 4 wheels via a 6-speed automatic transmission as standard, this oil-burner generates peak outputs of 140 kW and 450 Nm.

How much does the Isuzu D-Max 45 Limited Edition cost?

Isuzu D-Max 3.0TD LSE 45 4×4 6AT double cab – R906 100

The price above includes a 5-year/120 000 km warranty and a 5-year/90 000 km service plan (with intervals of 15 000 km).

Find a used Isuzu D-Max on Cars.co.za!

Toyota Starlet Cross (2024) Price & Specs

The new Toyota Starlet Cross has been launched in South Africa. Prices for (what is now Toyota’s most affordable crossover model) start at just under R300 000.

Ever since the Suzuki Fronx – the crossover variant of the brand’s Baleno compact hatchback – debuted in India, we’ve anticipated that Toyota would introduce a version of the model in its home market – and Mzansi! Cars.co.za discovered that Toyota Motor Corporation had applied to register “Starlet Cross” as a trademark in SA as long ago as June 2022, the very same month it filed to trademark “Taisor” in India.

In April 2024, Cars.co.za exclusively reported that the Taisor would indeed be badged as the Toyota Starlet Cross in South Africa and, earlier this month, we confirmed pricing for what is now Toyota South Africa Motors’ most-affordable crossover model, which undercuts the Urban Cruiser by R42 600.

While the Fronx line-up comprises 4 derivatives (in mid-tier GL and flagship GLX trim grades) and has pricing bookends of R297 900 and R354 900; the Suzuki’s non-identical Starlet Cross twin also has 4 variants – in XS and XR trim grades – and prices at R299 900 and ends at R359 300 (late July 2024).

All Starlet Cross derivatives are powered by Suzuki’s ubiquitous 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine. As it does in various other Suzuki and Toyota applications, the K15B mill sends 77 kW and 138 Nm to the front axle via either a 5-speed manual gearbox or a 4-speed automatic transmission. TSAM claims average fuel consumption figures of 5.6 L/100 km, for the manual, and 5.8 L/100 km, for the automatic.

The newcomer is 3 995 mm long (with a 2 520-mm wheelbase), 1 550 mm tall (+50 mm compared with the Starlet), 1 765 mm wide (+20 mm) and has a ground clearance of 170 mm (+30 mm). Exterior adornments include chrome garnishes on the grille, LED head- and taillamps (the former in conjunction with LED DRLs), front- and rear skid plates, a roof-end spoiler, as well as 16-inch alloy wheels.

The cabin features a 3-tone dashboard with premium finishes in charcoal, silver, and bordeaux, TSAM says, as well as cloth upholstery, chrome interior accents, a leather-trimmed multifunction steering wheel, cruise control, auto aircon, 3 USB chargers, rear parking sensors and a reverse-view camera.

XS variants feature a tilt-adjustable steering column and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system (with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity), in conjunction with a 4-speaker audio setup.

XR derivatives are additionally equipped with chrome-finished inside door handles, a door courtesy lamp, silver (as opposed to black) side-sill garnish, height adjustment for the driver’s seat, tilt-and-telescopic adjustment for the steering column, a colour instrument display, a head-up display, an electro-chromatic rear-view mirror, a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen (and 2 extra speakers for the audio system), wireless charging pad, an illuminated glovebox, a 360-degree camera system, as well as keyless entry and start.

In terms of safety features, all Toyota Starlet Cross derivatives have ABS with EBD, vehicle stability control, hill-assist control and ISOfix child-seat anchors. Whereas XS variants have 2 airbags (for the driver and front passenger), XR derivatives are fitted with 6 airbags (plus side- and curtain airbags).

TSAM also says the model is available in a variety of monochrome and bi-tone colours. Standard colours include Mystic Pearl White, Sonic Black Pearl, Premium Liquid Silver, Galaxy Blue, Shadow Grey, and Fine Orange (as pictured below). The bi-tone options include Luxe Red, Fine Orange, and Liquid Sliver in combination with a Sonic Black Pearl roof finish, which also adorns the roof spoiler and side mirrors.

How much does the new Toyota Starlet Cross cost in SA?

Starlet Cross 1.5 XS manual	R299 900
Starlet Cross 1.5 XS auto	R322 300
Starlet Cross 1.5 XR manual	R339 300
Starlet Cross 1.5 XR auto	R359 300

Prices include a 3-year/100 000 km warranty and a 4-services/60 000 km service plan.

All Toyota owners can sign up for a MyToyota profile. MyToyota provides a platform for owners to quickly and conveniently access all information and services related to the Starlet Cross. Once they opt in, they’ll have access to in-car WiFi capability (with a complimentary 25Gb) and supplementary Connect services.

Lamborghini Urus SE (2024) Price & Specs

How much will the new 588 kW Lamborghini Urus SE – the first PHEV version of the Italian firm’s high-performance SUV – cost in South Africa? We have local pricing…

Revealed in April 2024, the new Lamborghini Urus SE is the very first plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) version of the Sant’Agata Bolognese-based firm’s high-performance SUV. And now, ahead of its arrival in South Africa, we can share pricing for this newcomer.

Thanks our ever-helpful friends over at duoporta.com, we can confirm that local orders for the Urus SE have opened, with a starting price of R4 875 000. Should the buyer wish to upgrade from the standard 3-year/100 000 km maintenance plan to a 5-year item, that starting figure rises to R5 075 000.

Interestingly, the Urus SE’s starting price sees it positioned between the Urus S (R4 550 000) and Urus Performante (R4 950 000), models we believe have effectively sold out. While each of those derivatives develops 490 kW and 850 Nm, the Urus SE’s total system outputs come in at a whopping 588 kW and 950 Nm, making it the most powerful Urus yet, by some margin.

Lamborghini says the twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 engine has been “re-engineered to work in optimal synergy” with an electric motor. In the Urus SE, the 8-cylinder mill alone generates 456 kW and 800 Nm, and combines with an electric motor offering 141 kW and 483 Nm. As a result, the plug-in version of the Urus sees off the 0-100 kph sprint in a claimed 3.4 seconds (a second slower than the lighter Urus Performante but a second quicker than the Urus S), before topping out at 312 kph.

With the permanent-magnet synchronous electric motor located inside the 8-speed automatic transmission, the motor can either add to the V8’s efforts or act as a traction element itself, driving all 4 wheels. Thanks to the 25.9 kWh lithium-ion battery positioned below the load floor (but above the electronically controlled rear differential), the Urus SE has an all-electric range of “more than” 60 km.

How much does the Lamborghini Urus SE cost in SA?

Lamborghini Urus SE – R4 875 000

The starting price above includes Lamborghini’s 3-year/100 000 km maintenance plan and increases to R5 075 000 should the customer specify the 5-year maintenance plan.

5 Most Powerful Double-Cab Bakkies in SA

Like your bakkies with an extra dose of brawn? Let’s take a look at the most powerful double-cab bakkies currently available in the South African market…

Double-cab bakkie buyers in South Africa are spoilt for choice, and if power and torque figures get you revved up and excited, this bakkie list is for you. Here are the most powerful double-cab bakkies currently on offer in South Africa…

Pricing is accurate as of July 2024.

Most Powerful Double-Cab Bakkies in SA

1. Ford Ranger Raptor – 292 kW

The Ford Ranger Raptor made landfall in South Africa in the opening quarter of 2023, immediately claiming the top spot with a whopping 292 kW and 583 Nm developed from its twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine, which comes paired with a specially calibrated 10-speed automatic transmission.

The Ranger Raptor offers formidable off-road performance thanks to its uprated Fox 2.5-inch Live Valve Internal Bypass shock absorbers, which make high-speed off-road driving a breeze. Moreover, the Raptor features a 2-speed transfer case, front and rear locking differentials and up to 7 driving modes as well as an electronically controlled active exhaust system.

The Ford Ranger Raptor is priced from R1 226 700 (note this excludes the cost of a service plan).

See specification and pricing details for the new Ford Ranger

Buy a used Ford Ranger Raptor on Cars.co.za

3. Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster – 210 kW

most expensive double cab bakkies in South Africa

The Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster has arrived in South Africa and it’s currently the second most powerful double-cab bakkie you can buy with its BMW-sourced 3.0-litre, 6-cylinder turbopetrol engine developing 210 kW and 450 Nm of torque. An 8-speed automatic ZF transmission is standard.

Local buyers can also look forward to a 3.0-litre, 6-cylinder turbodiesel engine joining the range soon with 183 kW and 550 Nm of torque on offer.

The Quartermaster can be had in 3 trim grades including Base, Trialmaster (offroad) and Fieldmaster (urban) and Ineos offers a wide range of optional equipment and accessories that you can specify to build the Quartermaster that best suits your needs.

With pricing starting from R1 710 00, The Grenadier Quartermaster is the most expensive double-cab bakkie currently on sale in South Africa.

See specification and pricing for a new Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster

Buy a used Ineos Grenadier on Cars.co.za

3. Jeep Gladiator 3.6 Rubicon – 209 kW

The Jeep Gladiator Rubicon is the 3rd-most powerful double-cab bakkie in South Africa with only 1 kW separating it from the new Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster. The Gladiator draws power from a naturally aspirated 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 petrol engine that offers 209 kW and 347 Nm of torque, and is mated with an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Apart from boasting an impressive power output, the Jeep Gladiator is also one of the most hardcore 4×4 bakkies on the market. In addition, it’s one of the most expensive double-cab bakkies you can buy right now with a price tag of R1 364 900.

See specification details for the Jeep Gladiator Rubicon

Buy a used Jeep Gladiator on Cars.co.za

4. Ford Ranger Platinum and Wildtrak – 184 kW

The Wildtrak and Platinum version of the latest Ford Ranger can be specified with a 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel engine, which generates a heady 184 kW and 600 Nm. Ford’s 10-speed automatic transmission is standard fare.

Pricing for the V6-powered Ranger Wildtrak starts at R1 057 200 while the range-topping Ranger Platinum is priced from R1 120 100. Not that, again, a service plan is not included as standard.

See specification details for the Ford Ranger Wildtrak 3.0 V6

See specification details for the Ford Ranger Platinum 3.0 V6

Buy a used Ford Ranger on Cars.co.za

5. Volkswagen Amarok 3.0TDI V6 – 184 kW

While Volkswagen’s original Amarok employed a 6-cylinder motor boasting 190 kW and 580 Nm, the 2nd-generation version of the bakkie (built by Ford) has switched to the Blue Oval brand’s aforementioned 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel unit, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.

The Amarok V6’s peak power output thus falls slightly to 184 kW, though maximum torque increases to 600 Nm. Pricing for the V6-powered Amarok starts from R1 047 400 (in conjunction with the Style trim level).

See specs for the 184 kW VW Amarok here!

Buy a new or used VW Amarok on Cars.co.za

Hilux vs Ranger: single- & double-cab sales in June 2024

The Hilux and Ranger again led SA’s bakkie sales race in June 2024. But which pick-up dominated in the single-, extended- and double-cab segments? We have the figures!

By now, you would have read our list of South Africa’s best-selling bakkies for June 2024, yet again topped by the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger. But what does the picture look like when we separate the sales by the single-, extended- and double-cab body styles?

Well, since Naamsa’s monthly sales report unfortunately doesn’t include a breakdown of the 3 bakkie body styles, our friends over at Lightstone Auto have again kindly supplied us with these fascinating figures.

*Toyota’s Hilux leads the bakkie segment overall, year to date.*

Before we dive into sales by body style, keep in mind that the Hilux topped the 1-tonne bakkie charts overall in June 2024, selling a total of 2 435 units. The Ford Ranger (1 868 units) was 567 sales off the pace in 2nd, while the Isuzu D-Max again took 3rd with 1 794 units.

As you might have seen in our H1 2024 bakkie sales story, the Hilux (15 745 units) remains in a comfortable pole position year to date, ahead of the Ranger (12 212 units) and D-Max (9 449 units).

SA’s best-selling double-cab bakkies in June 2024

*Ford’s Ranger again led the double-cab sales charge in June 2024.*

Right, now let’s turn our attention to local sales by body style. According to Lightstone Auto’s figures, the Ford Ranger again topped the double-cab sales charts in June 2024, with 1 394 dual-cab units registered. By our maths, that translates to 74.6% of the Silverton-built bakkie’s overall tally for the month.

Therefore, the Toyota Hilux remained in 2nd position in Mzansi’s double-cab sales race in June, with 1 172 units sold. For the record, that figure represents 48.1% of the Prospecton-produced stalwart’s overall tally last month.

As you’ve no doubt already gleaned, the final place on the double-cab podium thus went to the Struandale-made Isuzu D-Max, which reached 812 dual-cab units last month. A few jabs at a calculator show that number works out to 45.3% of the Japanese contender’s aggregate for June.

Interestingly, Lightstone Auto’s figures furthermore indicated that all other 1-tonne double-cab bakkie derivatives (over and above the Ranger, Hilux and D-Max) collectively managed 1 339 registrations last month. Year to date, the Ranger leads the double-cab race with 9 341 units, ahead of the Hilux (7 062 units) and D-Max (3 854 units).

June 2024 sales: single- and extended-cab body styles

Isuzu D-Max Single Cab LS — *Isuzu’s D-Max tied with the Hilux in the single-cab space in June 2024.*

In the single-cab space in June 2024, the Hilux (854 units or 35.1% of its total) had to share the top position with the D-Max (854 units or 47.6%). That said, in the year-to-date race in this segment, the Hilux (5 998 units) holds a relatively strong lead over its fellow Japanese rival (4 641 units).

The 2-door version of the KwaZulu-Natal-assembled Mahindra Pik Up again grabbed 3rd in June (697 units or 84.1%) as well as over the opening 6 months of 2024 (3 314 units). The Ranger single cab, meanwhile, managed just 156 registrations last month and sits on 949 units, year to date.

Meanwhile, the Hilux Xtra Cab (409 units) grabbed back 1st place in the extended-cab space in June 2024, forcing the Ranger Supercab (318 units) into 2nd position. Year to date, the Hilux leads in this segment, with 2 679 units compared to the Blue Oval brand contender’s 1 922 registrations. As the only other nameplate offered in this body style, the D-Max Extended Cab completed the podium both in June (128 units) and over the opening half of 2024 (954 units).

Fastest Toyota Hilux in South Africa: GR Sport vs 48V vs Legend

What’s the fastest Toyota Hilux in South Africa? We pit the Hilux GR Sport against the 48V Hilux and the Hilux Legend on a drag strip to find some answers. Watch the video to see the result!

We headed to an airport runway to race three brand-new Toyota Hilux double-cab bakkies. The new Toyota Hilux GR Sport is so much more than just a sticker pack and boasts more power, better brakes and uprated suspension.

With Jacob Moshokoa behind the wheel, it faces off against the brand-new Toyota Hilux 48V, the brand’s first diesel-electric hybrid. Could the electric boost cause a massive upset and give David Taylor bragging rights?

A standard Hilux Legend came along for the ride, just to keep the new protagonists in check, but Ashley Oldfield felt he wouldn’t be completely outgunned thanks to his considerable motorsport experience.

Which Hilux do you think won the race? Watch the video!

Buy a Toyota Hilux on Cars.co.za

6 Most Expensive Double Cab Bakkies in SA

If you are shopping in the upper-end of the double-cab bakkie market and are prepared to pay the price then you should take a closer look at these 5 most expensive double cab bakkies.

In case you haven’t noticed, new car prices have risen sharply in recent years and the double-cab bakkie market hasn’t been spared. Despite this, double-cab bakkies remain hugely popular in South Africa and buyers are seemingly willing to pay high prices for these high-riding steeds.

If you have been wondering what the most expensive double-cab bakkies are in South Africa, wonder no more, here they are!

Note that pricing is accurate as of July 2024.

Most Expensive Double Cab Bakkies in South Africa

Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster – From R1 717 000

Ineos has introduced its Grenadier Quartermaster double-cab bakkie to the South African market boasting tremendous offroad capability. The Quartermaster is powered by a 3.0-litre, 6-cylinder turbopetrol engine with 210 kW and 450 Nm of torque while a 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine with 183 kW and 550 Nm will join the lineup before the end of 2024. An 8-speed ZF automatic transmission is standard.

Pricing starts from R1 710 000 making the the Quartermaster the most expensive double-cab bakkie on sale in South Africa.

Read our Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster Launch Review

Buy a used Inoes on Cars.co.za

Jeep Gladiator Rubicon – R1 364 900

Jeep unleashed the Gladiator Rubicon in South Africa in 2022 and it’s currently priced from R1 364 900. You do, however, get a whole lot of bakkie for that money and not only is it packed with a host of comfort and convenience features as standard, it’s also hugely capable offroad.

It’s powered by a 3.6-litre V6 petrol engine with 209 kW and 347 Nm of torque on offer and comes mated with an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Read our Jeep Gladiator Rubicon (2022) Review

Buy a used Jeep on Cars.co.za

Ford Ranger 3.0 V6 EcoBoost Raptor 4WD – R1 226 700

The new Ford Ranger Raptor has arrived in South Africa and it’s currently the most powerful double-cab bakkie you can buy!

It’s powered by a bi-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 EcoBoost petrol engine with 292 kW and 583 Nm of torque and comes mated with a specially calibrated 10-speed automatic transmission.

Buy a Ford Ranger Raptor on Cars.co.za

Volkswagen Amarok 3.0TDI V6 Aventura 4Motion – R1 206 400

The new Volkswagen Amarok is a formidable offering in this segment.

The Amarok range is headlined by the 3.0 V6 Aventura 4Motion derivative priced at R1 206 400. It offers peak outputs of 184 kW and 600 Nm of torque from its 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel engine and is equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission.

Read our review of the new Volkswagen Amarok

Buy a Volkswagen Amarok on Cars.co.za

Isuzu D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35 – R1 170 339

The Isuzu D-Max has been to the gym and received some Arctic Trucks treatment! The D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35 is priced from R1 170 339

Apart from the visual enhancements, flared bodywork, chunk tyres and suspension upgrade, the D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35 employs Isuzu’s familiar 3.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine with 140 kW and 450 Nm and mated with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Buy a used Isuzu D-Max on Cars.co.za

Toyota Hilux 2.8GD-6 48V 4×4 Legend RS Auto – R1 023 400

The tried-and-tested Toyota Hilux is currently the best-selling bakkie in South Africa and the 2.8GD-6 4×4 Legend RS Auto is currently listed as the most expensive Hilux in the range with its recent price increase breaching the R1-million mark for the first time in Hilux history. Power comes courtesy of Toyota’s new 48V 2.8-litre turbodiesel engine that offers 150 kW and 500 Nm of torque and is mated with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Buy a new or used Toyota Hilux on Cars.co.za

Opel Corsa (2024) Review

The Opel Corsa faces stiff competition from the Volkswagen Polo and an array of small crossovers. We review the facelifted 1.2T GS Line to determine whether this German B-segment hatchback still has much to offer, or whether the market has left it behind.

FAST FACTS

Serious about buying/selling?

Where does the Opel Corsa facelift fit in?

How the Opel Corsa fares in terms of…

Price and After-sales support

Verdict

Volkswagen Touareg (2024) Price & Specs

The facelifted Volkswagen Touareg will be on sale in South Africa from the beginning of August 2024. Here’s a quick look at the pricing and what’s on offer.

How much does the 2024 VW Touareg cost in South Africa?

Toyota Starlet Cross (2024) Launch Review

The Starlet Cross has superseded the Urban Cruiser as Toyota South Africa Motors’ most affordable small crossover. We drove the newcomer up in Gauteng this week.

Budget crossovers are getting better – and multiplying

How much does the new Toyota Starlet Cross cost in SA?

Summary

Related content:

Isuzu D-Max 45 Limited Edition (2024) Price & Specs

The Isuzu D-Max 45 Limited Edition double-cab has been revealed to celebrate 45 years of the brand producing bakkies in South Africa. Here’s how much it costs…

How much does the Isuzu D-Max 45 Limited Edition cost?

Related content

Toyota Starlet Cross (2024) Price & Specs

The new Toyota Starlet Cross has been launched in South Africa. Prices for (what is now Toyota’s most affordable crossover model) start at just under R300 000.

How much does the new Toyota Starlet Cross cost in SA?

Related content

Lamborghini Urus SE (2024) Price & Specs

How much will the new 588 kW Lamborghini Urus SE – the first PHEV version of the Italian firm’s high-performance SUV – cost in South Africa? We have local pricing…

How much does the Lamborghini Urus SE cost in SA?

Related content

5 Most Powerful Double-Cab Bakkies in SA

Like your bakkies with an extra dose of brawn? Let’s take a look at the most powerful double-cab bakkies currently available in the South African market…

Most Powerful Double-Cab Bakkies in SA

1. Ford Ranger Raptor – 292 kW

3. Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster – 210 kW

3. Jeep Gladiator 3.6 Rubicon – 209 kW

4. Ford Ranger Platinum and Wildtrak – 184 kW

5. Volkswagen Amarok 3.0TDI V6 – 184 kW

Hilux vs Ranger: single- & double-cab sales in June 2024

The Hilux and Ranger again led SA’s bakkie sales race in June 2024. But which pick-up dominated in the single-, extended- and double-cab segments? We have the figures!

SA’s best-selling double-cab bakkies in June 2024

June 2024 sales: single- and extended-cab body styles

Related content

Fastest Toyota Hilux in South Africa: GR Sport vs 48V vs Legend

What’s the fastest Toyota Hilux in South Africa? We pit the Hilux GR Sport against the 48V Hilux and the Hilux Legend on a drag strip to find some answers. Watch the video to see the result!

6 Most Expensive Double Cab Bakkies in SA

If you are shopping in the upper-end of the double-cab bakkie market and are prepared to pay the price then you should take a closer look at these 5 most expensive double cab bakkies.

Most Expensive Double Cab Bakkies in South Africa

Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster – From R1 717 000

Jeep Gladiator Rubicon – R1 364 900

Ford Ranger 3.0 V6 EcoBoost Raptor 4WD – R1 226 700

Volkswagen Amarok 3.0TDI V6 Aventura 4Motion – R1 206 400

Isuzu D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35 – R1 170 339

Toyota Hilux 2.8GD-6 48V 4×4 Legend RS Auto – R1 023 400