Toyota Fortuner (2023) Review

In this comprehensive review, Ciro De Siena explores the subtle yet significant updates to the 2023 Toyota Fortuner, a vehicle that holds a special place in the South African new-vehicle market. Watch the video!

This 2023 Toyota Fortuner is more of an evolution rather than a revolution and it still ranks as a top contender and a smart buy for local consumers looking for a capable adventure SUV.

The updated 2.8-litre turbodiesel engine produces 150 kW and 500 Nm of torque, putting it on par with its competitors.

The interior includes modern features such as two-tone leather seats, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and USB-C ports while rear occupants are treated to their own air conditioning controls and vents!

The third-row seats fold up against the windows to create a large boot space. The Fortuner can also tow up to 3.5 tons!

If you’re in the market for a Fortuner, this review will help you make an informed buying decision.

2023 Toyota Fortuner – Should you buy it?

Performance

The new Fortuner’s most impactful change is the “beefed up” 2.8-liter engine, which now produces a robust 150 kW and 500 Nm of torque. This power upgrade is crucial, as it puts the Fortuner squarely on par with its main rival, the Ford Everest. This strategic move ensures the Fortuner remains competitive in a segment where engine performance and towing capacity are key considerations for buyers. The vehicle’s proven reliability, combined with this new power output, strengthens its reputation as a dependable workhorse capable of handling both daily commutes and more challenging off-road adventures.

Interior Features

While some interior elements may not feel as modern as those in its competitors, the Fortuner’s cabin has received thoughtful updates to enhance comfort and convenience.

The introduction of a new bi-tone leather interior with red accents adds a more premium feel to the cabin. The Fortuner VX is also equipped with modern features like an Android Auto / Apple CarPlay capable infotainment system, USB-C ports and a 220-volt socket.

See specification details for the Toyota Fortuner 2.8GD-6 VX on Cars.co.za

Practicality

The Fortuner’s practicality is a key factor in its market success. Its unique third-row seating, which folds up against the side windows rather than into the floor, is a sticking point for some buyers but the system does result in more boot height compared to its flat-folding rivals.

The Fortuner’s significance for the South African market is rooted in its ability to marry tradition with timely updates. It’s a vehicle that doesn’t try to be something it’s not; instead, it refines its core strengths of durability, reliability, and practicality, which are qualities that continue to resonate deeply with South African motorists.

Watch the full review for all the details!

Buy a Fortuner on Cars.co.za

Frequently Asked Questions

How many seats does the Toyota Fortuner have?

The Fortuner is a 7-seater SUV with three rows of seats, designed to accommodate a driver and up to six passengers.

What is the ground clearance of the Toyota Fortuner?

The Toyota Fortuner has a ground clearance of approximately 225 mm to 279 mm, depending on the model year and specific variant. This high clearance makes it well-suited for off-road driving and navigating rough terrain.

What are the engine and transmission options for the Toyota Fortuner?

The Toyota Fortuner is available with two diesel engines, with some derivatives featuring 48V mild-hybrid technology to improve efficiency. Engines include a 2.4-litre and 2.8-litre turbocharged diesel engine. Transmission choices typically include both a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic gearbox, with some variants offering a 4×4 drivetrain.

What are some key features of the Toyota Fortuner?

Key features of the Toyota Fortuner include a high-strength body-on-frame chassis for durability, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, leather seats, automatic climate control, and a suite of safety features such as multiple airbags, ABS with EBD, and traction control. Higher trims may also offer a premium JBL sound system and a powered tailgate.

What is the fuel tank capacity of the Toyota Fortuner?

The Toyota Fortuner has a fuel tank capacity of 80 litres.

Suzuki Grand Vitara (2023) Launch Review

We headed to the Garden Route to drive the brand-new Suzuki Grand Vitara. The model name has quite a legacy, so we were very keen to drive the newcomer...

The Suzuki Grand Vitara (GV) is one of the Japanese brand’s most-loved legacy vehicles and this author happens to have fond memories of adventuring through sand dunes in the old 2.4 Summit. It sure was a thirsty ol’ SUV, but if you’re shopping for a used vehicle, the GV’s still a desirable and capable family car.

The new Grand Vitara is built in India and represents an all-new chapter for the nameplate. Yet, some Suzuki fans (especially the older ones) may not be too excited; perhaps a name of such stature shouldn’t be bestowed on a model that is little more than a crossover (or “softroader”, as some people call it)?

What’s on Offer?

Beneath its sheet metal, the Grand Vitara is an all-new vehicle, with a fresh platform and powertrain.

Suzuki Auto SA offers the new Grand Vitara with a 5-derivative lineup, which starts with the 1.5 GL manual and is topped off by an all-wheel-drive 1.5 Hybrid GLX AllGrip flagship. The latter costs a heady R529 900, but the good news is that the range starts from just R339 900… The entry-level derivatives offer exceptional value for money – they effectively plug the gap left by the discontinued Vitara Brezza.

All derivatives are powered by versions of the naturally aspirated 1.5-litre 4-cylinder petrol motor that does duty in many of the Japanese brand’s products. The non-assisted motor produces 77 kW/138 Nm and drives the model’s front wheels via either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission.

The flagship version also has a 1.5, but it is paired with a mild-hybrid system (a first for Suzuki SA) and a 6-speed auto ‘box. It has peak outputs of 76 kW and 136 Nm, so the 12V system is there to optimise fuel efficiency (not boost performance); Suzuki claims the GLX AllGrip consumes an average of 5.6 L/100 km.

Don’t let your eyes fool you: the new Grand Vitara is neither as large, nor as imposing, as it may appear.

It is noticeably longer (by 350 mm) than the outgoing Vitara Brezza and it rides on a 2 600-mm, as opposed to a 2 500-mm wheelbase, which has resulted in improved rear legroom. During our evaluation of the new model, we found that it could accommodate 4 adults in reasonable comfort, even if the rear headroom was a little tight for taller occupants. Curiously, the claimed luggage capacity has shrunk a little (from 328 litres to 310 litres), but it can expand to 1 147 litres when the rear seatback is folded flat.

In terms of interior fit-and-finish, the Grand Vitara’s level is comparable with – or slightly better than – that of its predecessor, which is to say it’s solid and durable-looking, as opposed to luxurious. There are 2 trim levels – GL and GLX – and the entry-level derivatives seem impressively specced for the price.

What it’s like to drive?

We drove the 1.5 Hybrid GLX AllGrip and our test route included many gravel and off-road sections.

Let’s get the downsides out of the way. The flagship derivative’s outright performance is underwhelming. While its peak outputs feel sufficient at double-digit speeds, the Suzuki’s open-road/highway overtaking performance is middling at best. When 3 adults and their luggage were travelling in the car, overtaking manoeuvres required some pre-planning because the motor’s shortage of torque was quite apparent.

By contrast, the 6-speed automatic transmission was impressive. It didn’t hunt for gears and while there were shift paddles on the ‘wheel, we left the ‘box to its own devices for the on-tar portion of the route.

When traversing gravel roads, the Grand Vitara felt well at ease, with excellent steering response and -feel, as well as admirable body control. The off-road system, which we left in its default (automatic) mode, cleverly and seamlessly activated the rear-wheel drive when the front wheels scrabbled.

There’s the ability to lock the central diff in extreme circumstances, which we did when traversing a historic ox wagon path up the Outeniqua Mountains. Most Grand Vitara customers will never be that adventurous, but it’s reassuring to know the vehicle’s quite capable with its 210 mm of ground clearance.

We also had a chance to drive the automatic entry-level GL, which we mostly drove on asphalt roads. It may look much like the AllGrip version, but it is tailor-made for budget-conscious crossover buyers.

Also, the 4-speed automatic may seem like an antiquated transmission, but it works well in combination with the rev-happy 77 kW/138 Nm 1.5-litre engine. The spec difference between the GL and GLX isn’t considerable either; owners are unlikely to feel like they should have opted for the higher-trim level.

The model’s on-road demeanour is good around town. As befits a town/city runabout, the Suzuki requires minimal effort to steer, plus the high-profile tyres and pliant suspension deliver a fair ride quality.

While the engine can sound a bit strained when required to explore the upper reaches of its rev range, it did provide adequate shove (the launch was admittedly at sea level). We suspect that on the Reef, with the altitude-induced power deficit and four passengers on board, the Grand Vitara may labour. Sadly, the punchy 1.4-litre 4-cylinder turbopetrol engine from the Vitara is unlikely to make its way into this model.

Summary

Should this model – a replacement for the Vitara Brezza – be called the Grand Vitara? It’s not “superior” to its older, but sufficiently urbane, Vitara sibling (as the name suggests) and has very little in common with the aforementioned iconic family off-roader of days gone by. Granted, the 1.5 Hybrid GLX AllGrip will take you further off-road than you’d expect, but it’s highly unlikely to appeal to 4×4 enthusiasts.

We spent the majority of our time driving the flagship Grand Vitara, which is hamstrung by a steep asking price and lack of punch, but Suzuki admits it won’t be the range’s top seller. Yes, its tech adds a modern flavour to the brand, but at over R500k, it doesn’t offer quite enough in-gear oomph compared with turbocharged rivals such as the Kia Seltos 1.4T-GDI GT Line and VW T-Cross 1.5TSI 110kW R-Line.

Look past the flagship, however, and you’ll find that the other Grand Vitara derivatives offer notable value, comfort, and practicality at a great price, which is Suzuki SA’s forte. Given the model’s 5-year/200 000 km warranty and 6-year/90 000 km service plan, it does represent a solid ownership proposition.

Get a quote / Request a test drive

Refreshed GWM P-Series Unveiled in China

The facelifted GWM P-Series has debuted in China, featuring a refreshed front end and a significantly upgraded cabin…

A facelifted version of the GWM P-Series double cab has broken cover at the Shanghai motor show, boasting fresh front-end styling and an extensively overhauled interior.

The updated version of the Chinese bakkie – which also wears the Cannon, Ute or Poer badge, depending on the market – scores a new (even bolder) grille design, along with a restyled front bumper housing new foglamps. The wheel-arch extensions, too, have been tweaked, while the vehicle on show features roof rails, a sports bar and a hard load-bed cover.

From what we can tell, no significant changes have been made to the double-cab model’s rear end, nor to its profile (though the alloy-wheel design appears to have been reworked). Of course, it’s worth keeping in mind the vehicle on display in Shanghai is a Chinese-spec model, so styling could vary by market.

Inside, the Luxury version of the revised P-Series features a freestanding 7-inch colour LCD instrument cluster and a new 12.3-inch touchscreen (as opposed to the old integrated 9-inch item) that likewise sits proud of the facia. It seems the cabin employs far fewer physical controls than before, which suggests more functions have been moved to the touchscreen.

*The refreshed P-Series made its debut at the Shanghai motor show.*

We also spotted new steering-wheel and automatic gear-shifter designs as well as a change in orientation for the air vents (from vertical to a more conventional horizontal layout). According to the press material we managed to dig up (and translate), the cabin furthermore gains “large storage” compartments up front and added soft-touch materials atop the dashboard.

The Chinese-market version also gains a “fully automatic parking system”, improved driver-assistance technology and the ability to be unlocked and started remotely. In China, the engine range looks set to continue unchanged.

Haval Motors South Africa, which distributes the GWM brand locally, has yet to confirm when (or indeed whether) we can expect to see the facelifted P-Series on local roads. Of course, if it does come to South Africa, the SA-spec model may well differ somewhat from the Chinese version.

As a reminder, the P-Series launched in SA in December 2020. The local line-up currently comprises 16 derivatives (4 single cabs, 8 “commercial” double cabs and 4 “passenger” double cabs), with pricing running from R404 950 to R640 950. All derivatives are powered by a 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel motor generating 120 kW and 400 Nm, though there is a choice of driven wheels (4×2 and 4×4) and transmissions (a 6-speed manual gearbox and a ZF-sourced 8-speed automatic cog-swapper).

In 2022, the P-Series registered 4 183 sales in South Africa, slightly behind its Steed sibling (4 522 units). Still, that haul was enough to secure the P-Series 8th place on the list of SA’s best-selling bakkies, ahead of established contenders like the Toyota Land Cruiser 79, the previous-generation Volkswagen Amarok and the Mitsubishi Triton. In the opening quarter of 2023, GWM registered 903 units of the P-Series, which again puts it in 8th position.

Buy a used GWM P-Series on Cars.co.za!

Did Mazda give the CX-60 the wrong engine?

Mazda is perhaps the most distinctive of all the Japanese automotive brands. Smaller than the rest, but agile and with a sense of agency regarding design and engineering, the Hiroshima-based brand often gets its products spot on, but there are exceptions.

Since Mazda’s relaunch in South Africa in 2014 (when it left the custodianship of the Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa and became an independent entity in our market), it has thrived.

Mazda’s crossovers and SUVs have distinctive designs; their cabins are a touch dark, but excellently made; plus, there is a defined coherence between Mazda’s product planning and the engineering that supports it. Apart from the new BT-50, no Mazda model feels like a platform twin of anything else.

Then there are the engines. Mazda is renowned for powertrain innovation – its rotaries remain some of the most characterful engines ever utilised in road-going vehicles. And although Mazda took a while to adopt diesel tech, its compression-ignition engines have proved excellent. But the brand’s powertrain strategy contains a big paradox – one that has become obvious again with the engine in the local CX-60.

The Mazda CX-60 will be offered in South Africa with a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre 4-cylinder engine. — *CX-60 has oodles of road presence. But will it have adequate overtaking prowess at altitude?*

Near-perfect proportions – but what about performance?

Built on a focused rear-wheel-drive architecture, the new Mazda CX-60 represents an impressive feat of luxury car design. Then again, Mazda is one of the very few car brands that don’t have a single inelegant or unattractive passenger-car model in their product portfolio. And CX-60 is at no risk of altering that status. It blends tidy proportions with restrained detailing and looks purposeful without being pastiche.

Japanese, Korean and Chinese brands might be powerful in the compact to mid-sized crossover market, but European brands dominate when you edge up towards the large luxury crossover/SUV segment. Therefore, the new CX-60 is a bold enterprise, especially in the South African market. Price and specification are always a challenge for product planners. Still, Mazda’s people have possibly made a very curious choice with CX-60: equipping it with a very mild engine, even if at a reasonable price.

See also: Mazda CX-60 (2023) Price & Specs

South African buyers will pay just over R700k for the entry-level CX-60 derivative and the model will be powered exclusively by a naturally-aspirated 2.5-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine. And this is the paradox of Mazda powertrain design: there is a legacy of reticence towards (non-rotary) turbocharged engines.

And it’s not a case of Mazda trying to be cheap or having lazy engineers who don’t want to integrate turbochargers…

*Mazda’s 3.3-litre mild-hybrid turbodiesel. Boosts 187 kW and 550 Nm, ideal outputs for South African driving demands.*

The turbo engines we can’t have

Mazda’s argument has always been that turbocharged engines struggle to equal the volumetric efficiency of an atmospheric engine in real-world driving conditions. And anyone who has driven a small-capacity turbopetrol engine will agree: there’s no way of getting close to achieving the manufacturer’s claimed fuel consumption figure (which explains why the New European Driving Cycle fuel-efficiency testing protocol has been replaced by the Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure).

To Mazda engine designers, a turbocharger’s added complexity and cost don’t compensate for the consequence of heavier fuel consumption. The brand asserts that fuel consumption transparency is a higher principle than peak power and it has steadfastly stuck to its guns. Why? Because that’s what an atmospheric engine delivers: consistent fuel consumption, regardless of driving style.

Mazda’s engineering honesty about turbocharged engines and fuel consumption is admirable, but that doesn’t mean they don’t build some terrific forced-induction engines. As more markets have demanded turbocharged engines (turbopetrol ones, to be specific), Mazda has duly delivered.

The Hiroshima-based brand has utilised a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder turbopetrol in its Mazda3 (in the ‘States), as well as the Mazda6 and crossover models (including the CX-5) in overseas markets. It also has a new family of inline 6-cylinder turbocharged engines, which pair ideally with luxury crossovers and SUVs.

However, the very best of these new-generation turbocharged engines from Mazda remains unattainable for South African followers of the brand. At least, for now.

*Plug-in hybrids aren’t a thing in South Africa. CX-60’s PHEV offers a very credible 241-kW combined system output.*

Is 258 Nm enough from a CX-60 engine?

Mazda’s 3.3-litre inline-6 engines won’t be available in the CX-60 when Mazda Southern Africa launches the eagerly awaited model in South Africa next month. What will be available is the 2.5-litre naturally aspirated 4-cylinder petrol engine, without its plug-in hybridisation and battery power.

The non-turbocharged 2.5-litre petrol is an engine of charming simplicity, reliability, consistent fuel consumption… and modest outputs. The CX-60’s 2.5-litre engine is rated for 143 kW and 258 Nm, but the latter number is underwhelming – especially for a vehicle that weighs just shy of 2 000 kg. Mazda’s plug-in hybrid version of the CX-60, which uses the same petrol engine, is good for 241 kW/500 Nm.

Altitude-related power dropoff will affect most potential CX-60 customers (in Gauteng, the loss is about 16.8%) and, because the Mazda’s a roomy 5-seater luxury vehicle, it’s reasonable to expect it will often be fully loaded. The heavier a car is, the more apparent its power-to-weight shortcomings become.

Mazda CX-7 was ahead of its time, but it was also saddled with a underwhelming engine. — *Not many better-looking large crossovers back in 2010. But CX-7’s local spec was underpowered.*

History repeats with the 2.5-litre engine

Mazda has done this before: deliver a distinctive design statement crossover, with excellent trim and equipment levels – but an underwhelming engine – to South African buyers. Remember the CX-7?

In the late 2000s and early 2010s, the CX-7 was one of the most distinctive Japanese large crossovers you could buy in South Africa (the unfortunately styled Subaru Tribeca notwithstanding). But it was powered by a 2.5-litre atmospheric engine, despite a 2.3-litre turbopetrol and 2.2-litre turbodiesel powerplants being available in other markets. With the CX-60, it appears much of the same again.

Engine power matters with large crossovers and luxury SUVs. These vehicles are regularly used on longer journeys, travelling to weekend getaway venues. Or routing from Gauteng to the coast. South African highways and B-roads are competitive driving environments, where overtaking performance is not a question of vanity, but safety.

It is a pity that the Mazda CX-60 is not being marketed with its full spectrum of available engines, capable of delivering potent overtaking acceleration for local customers.

Mazda CX-60 is offered with inline 6-cylinder petrol and diesel engines abroad. — *Is having CX-60’s least potent engine as the only local option, a titanic misjudgement?*

What determined Mazda’s engine choice for the CX-60?

But why is Mazda only offering its least powerful engine for the SA-market specification CX-60s? A contributing issue could be fuel quality. South African petrol and diesel quality can be wildly inconsistent throughout the nation: some of it is excellent, but most of it isn’t.

SkyActiv fuel-purity requirements from Mazda’s headquarters in Japan could have scuppered the ambition to add those 3.3-litre inline-6 engines to the CX-60’s South African model range. But fuel quality is always a weak variable for product planning justifications in South Africa… because German brands market similar-capacity engines locally, with arguably similar sophistication. Surely Mazda’s 3.3-litre turbodiesels aren’t more fuel sensitive than a BMW X5 xDrive30d’s 3.0-litre inline-6, for example?

The more truthful reason for the CX-60’s underwhelming powertrain specification is price alignment. The pair of CX-60 derivatives are positioned at R739 800 for the rear-wheel-drive 2.5 Dynamic and R844 500 for an all-wheel-drive 2.5 Individual. Those prices are very competitive.

There’s a probability that Mazda’s wonderful 3.3-litre 6-cylinder engines would have edged pricing beyond R900 000, and too close to R1-million. And that would have positioned CX-60 against rivals such as Hyundai’s Sante Fe and Kia’s Sorento, which are powered by more torquey turbodiesel engines.

Toyota GR Supra 3.0T Manual (2023) Price & Specs

The 6-speed manual version of the updated Toyota GR Supra (now with 285 kW) will arrive in South Africa shortly – and we’ve unearthed local pricing. Here’s how much you’ll pay…

Been hanging on for the 6-speed manual version of the Toyota GR Supra? Well, the wait is almost over – and we’ve uncovered pricing ahead of the local launch.

Yes, after a lengthy delay, the updated A90-generation Supra line-up is expected to debut in South Africa shortly, complete with extra power from its BMW-sourced 6-cylinder heart and a highly anticipated 3-pedal derivative.

As a reminder, the outgoing range comprised a trio of 3.0T variants – the base Track (R1 213 700), the standard model (R1 365 600) and a special Matte Grey version (R1 391 000) – with each featuring a turbocharged 3.0-litre straight-6 petrol engine driving the rear axle through a ZF-sourced 8-speed automatic transmission. The 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder version, of course, didn’t ever make it to local shores.

*Spherical GR-branded gear knob, present and correct.*

Meanwhile, the updated line-up will incorporate 2 derivatives, though there will now be a choice of transmissions. According to our information, the Toyota GR Supra 3.0T manual model will start at R1 417 500, while specifying the 8-speed automatic transmission will cost you R34 300 more, pushing the starting price to R1 451 800.

From what we understand, the BMW-built B58 engine’s peak power will furthermore rise from the outgoing version’s 250 kW to a healthier 285 kW (finally matching the output of the closely related Z4 M40i roadster, which itself recently benefited from a facelift). Maximum torque, meanwhile, is likely to remain at 500 Nm. Claimed 0-100 kph times and top speeds for the SA-spec models have yet to be announced.

According to the Japanese firm, the “newly developed” 6-speed manual cog-swapper was “engineered and tuned specifically” for the inline-6 engine. It features Toyota’s so-called “iMT” system, complete with an auto-blip function for downshifts (though this can be deactivated in Sport mode). Meanwhile, the final drive ratio has been shortened from the auto model’s 3.15:1 to 3.46:1.

*Expect the new manual derivative to score a red “Supra” badge.*

The rear-driven coupé’s braking control systems and suspension have also been “retuned for even better performance”, while modified stabiliser bushings ostensibly result in improved steering response.

Though local specifications have yet to be make public, we expect a few other updates to be introduced with this model change. For instance, the revised 2023 GR Supra will likely be offered with a new 19-inch alloy-wheel design, a couple of fresh exterior paint-colour options and an upgraded JBL premium sound system.

The A90-generation Supra launched in South Africa in mid-2019 and has since been joined by Gazoo Racing siblings in the form of the GR Yaris and the GR86 (with the GR Corolla on the way as well), along with GR-Sport iterations of Prospecton-built favourites such as the Hilux and Corolla Cross and imported models like the Land Cruiser 300. Remarkably, the last time Toyota SA Motors sold a new GR Supra locally was in May 2022 (when dealer orders for this new version were expected to open).

How much does the Toyota GR Supra cost in South Africa?

Toyota GR Supra 3.0T 6MT – R1 417 500

Toyota GR Supra 3.0T 8AT – R1 451 800

The updated Supra is likely to ship standard with a 3-year/100 000 km warranty and a 5-service/100 000 km service plan.

Buy a used Toyota GR Supra on Cars.co.za!

GWM Shanhai Cannon Looking Likely for SA

The GWM Shanhai Cannon double-cab bakkie is positioned as a bigger and more luxurious offering in comparison to the P-Series … and it’s looking likely to come to South Africa.

First showcased at the Chengdu Motor Show in 2022, the GWM Shanhai Cannon looks to be the new bakkie flagship for the Chinese carmaker. And, judging by recent comments from a GWM China official at the 2023 Shanghai motor show, it’s likely to come to South Africa.

According to carsales.com.au, a GWM China spokesperson confirmed during a livestream that the Shanhai bakkie would “soon be available [in Australia and South Africa] in the 4th quarter of 2023”. Turns out, however, the spokesperson was making reference to production availability rather than concrete launch dates.

In addition, it’s worth keeping in mind Haval Motors South Africa (which distributes the GWM brand locally) has yet to confirm this model for launch. Still, it’s looking increasingly likely, isn’t it? In addition, the local distributor’s COO hinted to us earlier in 2023 there were indeed plans to expand the bakkie range.

*The Shanai Cannon slots in above the P-Series.*

So, what separates the Shanhai Cannon from the P-Series? Well, firstly it’s larger and uses a ladder-frame setup that’s near-identical to the one found in the flagship Tank series.

As far as physical dimensions go, the Shanhai Cannon is 5 400 mm long, 1 991 mm wide and has a height of 1 924 mm. There’s a wheelbase of 3 350 and these figures make it fractionally longer, wider and taller than the current P-Series. The P-Series has a wheelbase of 3 230 mm.

Secondly, there’s not one, not two, but three engines to choose from (in China, anyway). Kicking off the range is a brand-new turbocharged petrol V6 engine producing a punchy 260 kW and 500 Nm, paired to a 9-speed automatic gearbox. There’ll also be a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol hybrid engine (outputs which are yet to be confirmed) as well as a brand-new 2.4-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder diesel motor, which is said to have 137 kW on tap with no torque figure given.

It has some cool party tricks, like its tailgate can be opened in the traditional manner as well as open vertically in two halves. Inside, there’s a massive 14.9-inch infotainment touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster for the driver, with both rows of seats gaining heated/ventilated power adjustable seats, upmarket cream leather upholstery, woodgrain inserts and nice gadgets like a wireless smartphone charging pad.

Want to purchase a new or used GWM vehicle? Browse stock here.

Suzuki Grand Vitara (2023) Price & Specs

The new flagship Suzuki Grand Vitara has arrived in South Africa. Here’s how much you can expect to pay for it and what’s on offer.

The brand-new Suzuki Grand Vitara has gone on sale in South Africa. “The previous-generation Grand Vitara was very popular and had a particularly long life cycle in South Africa thanks to its popularity. The new model is a reinterpretation of the Grand Vitara concept and has been completely redesigned from the ground up, with a focus on style, technology and ride comfort,” says Brendon Carpenter, Brand Marketing Manager of Suzuki Auto.

The newcomer goes on sale from just R339 900. Here’s a look at the pricing and specifications.

Want to buy a new or used Suzuki? Browse units for sale here.

What’s on offer?

The Suzuki Grand Vitara is on sale with a choice of two drivetrain options, three gearbox options and two- and four-wheel drive. The new model sees the debut of a mild-hybrid petrol-electric powertrain from Suzuki.

As a reminder, the new Suzuki Grand Vitara is a product of the partnership between it and Toyota, and is built at the Toyota facility in Kirloskar, India. Customers will have 8 colours to choose from as well as some two-tone options.

There are two versions of the Suzuki K15 engine offered in the Grand Vitara. The K15b is a naturally-aspirated 1.5-litre 4-cylinder engine with 77 kW and 138 Nm.

The second is the K15C which features an always-on mild hybrid system and has outputs of 75.8 kW and 136.8 Nm. The integrated starter generator assists the engine with additional power under heavy acceleration and along with start/stop, is said to reduce fuel consumption. Suzuki reckons the hybrid-equipped Grand Vitara is good for 5.6 L/100 km while its non-hybrid sibling manages 6 L/100 km.

As far as gearboxes are concerned, the Grand Vitara is offered with a 5-speed manual gearbox or 4-speed automatic for the 2-wheel-drive non-hybrid models, while the mild-hybrid model has a 6-speed automatic transmission with switchable all-wheel drive.

This is the 6th-gen version of Suzuki’s AllGrip system and combined with 210 mm of ground clearance, the Grand Vitara should be capable on the rough stuff.

Trim Levels

17-inch painted alloy wheels
Roof rails
7-inch digital display
Reverse camera
Keyless access
Keyless start/stop
Electric windows
Wireless Apple CarPlay / wired Android Auto
Automatic climate control
Cruise control
Leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio/cruise functionality
Rear parking sensors

GLX (the above content, plus:)

17-inch machined-polished alloy wheels
Silver roof rails
Privacy glass on the rear doors
9-inch digital display
Panoramic parking camera
Heads up display
Leatherette interior
Wireless charging tray
Ambient lighting
Additional USB charging ports for rear passengers
Panoramic sunroof
Additional audio speakers

When it comes to safety, the Grand Vitara has six airbags as standard, electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes and hill hold assist.

How much does the Suzuki Grand Vitara cost in South Africa?

The Suzuki Grand Vitara is sold with a 5 year / 200 000 km promotional warranty plan and a
6 year / 90 000 km service plan with intervals once every twelve months or every 15 000 km, whichever comes first.


Grand Vitara 1.5 GL 5MT	R339 900
Grand Vitara 1.5 GL 4AT	R359 900
Grand Vitara 1.5 GLX 5MT	R397 900
Grand Vitara 1.5 GLX 4AT	R417 900
Grand Vitara 1.5 GLX 6AT Hybrid AllGrip	R529 900

Want to buy a new or used Suzuki? Browse units for sale here.

Why you won’t see VW hybrids in SA before 2027

Volkswagen South Africa says though it is “discussing” hybrids, we won’t see any VW-badged examples on local roads before at least 2027. Here’s why…

The head of Volkswagen Group South Africa has revealed though the firm continues to “discuss” hybrids, VW-badged vehicles such equipped won’t be seen on local roads before at least 2027.

Martina Biene, chairperson and managing director of Volkswagen Group South Africa, made the comments during an exclusive podcast interview with Cars.co.za video journalist, Ciro De Siena.

So, why the long wait for hybrid vehicles, considering VW already offers a number in some other markets? Well, Biene – who also served as head of the Volkswagen passenger brand in SA from October 2018 until August 2020, before moving back to Germany for a short stint – suggested South Africa’s fuel quality was to blame.

*The VW Golf 8 GTE offered in Europe is a plug-in hybrid boasting a GTI-matching 180 kW.*

“To bridge a bit to EVs, we are discussing hybrid technology,” she confirmed, emphasising should such models be offered in South Africa they would not be locally produced but rather fully imported.

“The fuel quality in South Africa currently does not work with the engines we use for hybrid technology in Wolfsburg. But by 2027 there’s the next fuel quality level excepted in South Africa – a better fuel quality. And with that we could look into hybrids again,” Biene explained, making reference to SA’s long-delayed “Clean Fuels II” regulations that are expected to finally be implemented in 2027.

Biene pointed to the plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) as a compelling stepping stone to the fully electric car, though was wary of the cost implications.

“We have plug-in hybrids, which I think is the best technology to bridge into EVs. But unfortunately it’s also the most expensive because you have the best of both worlds. So, I’m not so sure whether that’s the right [route to go] for South Africa.

*The 340 kW Touareg R is another of VW’s plug-in hybrids.*

“I think the technology itself is great and also bridges into EVs because you can overcome range anxiety as you still have your combustion engine, but let’s [wait to see what will happen locally] when we get closer to 2027,” she added.

Finally, Biene touched on the fact the German firm offers mild-hybrid powertrains – under the “eTSI” badge – in some markets, though suggested the local fuel-quality issue was likewise hampering the chances of these engines being made available to South Africa.

“Then we’ve got the eTSI, as we call it, where you just have a bit of electric support. So, we’re debating, but this is not going to happen before 2027 because of the fuel quality and the engines used with VW globally.”

Watch the full interview with VWSA boss Biene

Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680 with 484 kW Revealed, Coming to SA

The new Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680 is the first all-electric Maybach and it packs some serious performance punch while also offering all the luxury your heart desires. The best part? It’s coming to SA!

The first electric Maybach to come to market is an SUV. Say hello to the Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680!

The good news is that the EQS 680 appears on Mercedes-Benz South Africa’s local website, which suggests that the newcomer is due to join the German firm’s growing South African EV footprint in the near future.

So what’s on offer, you ask? What’s not on offer is a better question! Positioned as the pinnacle of luxury, there’s little missing from this opulent package.

Starting with the dual-electric motor powertrain, it packs no less than 484 kW and 850 Nm (in the US) of torque, allowing this ultra-luxury SUV to cruise from zero to 100 kph in just 4.4 seconds. Electric range is claimed at up to 600 km and the vehicle supports 200kW DC fast-charging.

While the electric powertrain is impressive, the level of sheer opulence found inside the Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680 is simply staggering. The vehicle is lavishly equipped and passenger comfort is a top priority, hence the 2 individual rear, reclinable rear seats. Note that the fully-ventilated and massage-cable seats are upholstered in eco-friendly vegetable-tanned quilted leather. Features such an 11.6-inch infotainment screen, rear reading lights, ventilated cupholders, fridge and so forth, ensure that rear passengers are well looked after.

As for the driver’s cabin, Merc’s all-encompassing MBUX Hypersceen is standard but comes with Maybach-specific graphics. In addition, just about every conceivable driving assistance feature is fitted.

While local pricing is yet to be announced, you can be sure that the Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680 will be very expensive. For context, the current Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 is priced from R3 539 751, so you can use your imagination to conjure up estimated pricing for the Maybach EQS 680…

Buy a Mercedes-Benz GLS on Cars.co.za

2024 Renault Clio Facelift Announced

The 2024 Renault Clio Facelift has been revealed, bringing a radical new face to the compact hatchback segment. Here’s a look at what’s changed as well as a confirmed time of arrival in SA.

With over 16 million units finding homes around the world, the Clio has proven quite a winner for the French brand. Now the 2024 Renault Clio has been revealed, showing off a brand-new face, the debut of the new Renault logo for the Clio as well as a sporty Alpine trim.

The face has changed the most, with minimal changes under the skin. The new front looks far more aggressive and features the brand’s bold new logo. There are new slim LED headlights which are now standard across the lineup and the diamond daytime running lights look like the Renault logo has been split in half. A clever touch if you ask us.

Read a review of the brand-new Renault Clio 5 here

The cabin gets some more upmarket sustainable materials that are said to be longer lasting and of a higher quality. The infotainment system is mostly the same as the current model. Interestingly, Europe will get a sportily styled Alpine derivative that features clear tail lamps, blue paint and Alpine logos on the wheels. On the inside, there are sports seats, unique steering wheel and aluminium pedals.

Sadly there’s no sporty engine to match the sporty show. Right now the European market gets a 1.6-litre E-Tech hybrid, 1.2-litre 3-cylinder turbopetrol and a 1.2 naturally-aspirated motor. We estimate the SA market will continue with the current engine lineup. As a reminder, that’s a 1.0-litre turbopetrol 3-cylinder with 74 kW and 160 Nm.

The market for compact hatchbacks has changed dramatically, particularly in Europe. The demise of the Ford Fiesta is confirmed, and rumours of the Volkswagen Polo being dropped once the stricter Euro 7 emission regulations kick in. Customers have been flocking to the crossovers, like the Ford Puma, Volkswagen T-Cross and Renault Captur, to name but a few.

In an era full of SUVs, what’s a great hatchback like to live with?

2024 Renault Clio in SA?

Renault South Africa has confirmed that the facelifted Clio will be sold in our market. It’s expected to arrive late in 2024.

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

Toyota Fortuner (2023) Review

In this comprehensive review, Ciro De Siena explores the subtle yet significant updates to the 2023 Toyota Fortuner, a vehicle that holds a special place in the South African new-vehicle market. Watch the video!

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Practicality

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What is the ground clearance of the Toyota Fortuner?

What are the engine and transmission options for the Toyota Fortuner?

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What is the fuel tank capacity of the Toyota Fortuner?

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Why you won’t see VW hybrids in SA before 2027

Volkswagen South Africa says though it is “discussing” hybrids, we won’t see any VW-badged examples on local roads before at least 2027. Here’s why…

Watch the full interview with VWSA boss Biene

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2024 Renault Clio Facelift Announced

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2024 Renault Clio in SA?