Toyota Fortuner bounces back! SA’s best-selling cars in March 2023

The South African new-vehicle market’s run of year-on-year growth has ended, with sales falling marginally to a still-impressive 50 157 units in March 2023. Here’s a look at SA’s best-selling vehicles, most popular brands and more…

In March 2023, South Africa’s new-vehicle market registered a marginal decline of 0.6% to 50 157 units, bringing to an end the industry’s 14-month streak of year-on-year sales growth. Still, the month’s sales tally represents a considerable 10.6% increase compared with February 2023’s effort and is interestingly also the first time the market has cracked the 50 000-unit mark in a year.

Naamsa described the industry’s performance in March 2023 as “modest”, saying this could at least in part be attributed to rising interest rates and the so-called “national shutdown” of 20 March, when “many dealers opted to close shop and vehicle manufacturers operating in hotspot metros also halted production”.

Out of the total reported industry sales of 50 157 vehicles, an estimated 43 801 units (or 87.3%) came via the dealer channel, with 6.1% representing sales to the rental industry, 4.1% to government and 2.5% to industry corporate fleets.

The new passenger-vehicle market decreased 6.4% to 31 631 units in March 2023, while sales of new light-commercial vehicles (including bakkies and minibuses) grew an encouraging 11.1% year on year to 15 529 units (the highest LCV figure for over a year, as you can see in the chart below). After the opening quarter of the 2023, domestic sales stood at 139 437 units, representing an increase of 2.4% compared with the same period in 2022.

What about the export market? Well, Naamsa’s figures showed a 3.1% year-on-year increase to 34 134 units in March 2023, with the year-to-date number coming in at 84 774 units (or 4.2% down on the first quarter of 2022).

Lebogang Gaoaketse, Head of Marketing and Communications at WesBank, was upbeat, suggesting March 2023’s performance was worth celebrating.

“Despite the public holidays, March is a long sales month and this month’s performance mirrored what was the best-selling month last year. Both March 2022 and 2023 have been the only sales months to breach the 50 000-unit level since October 2019,” explained Gaoaketse.

Furthermore, according to WesBank, March’s increased volumes compared with February’s tally indicates “growth remains possible despite the headwinds of the continued energy crisis, rising interest rates and the pressures of inflation on household budgets”.

Gary McCraw, National Director of the National Automobil Dealers’ Association (NADA), was similarly optimistic, saying the fact total sales exceeded the 50 0000- unit barrier “was a positive sign, showing that there is still ongoing, pent-up demand for new vehicles”.

“The retail dealer network fared well in the circumstances, with many of them having closed over the Human Rights Day period. In fact, the dealers’ share of the new-vehicle market continues to hold up, with the March share of 87.3% being even better than the 83.6% share in February. On a year-to-date basis, the dealers have sold 2 230 more vehicles this year than in the same period in 2022 – 117 178 versus 114 948,” added McGraw.

New vehicle sales summary for March 2023

Aggregate new-vehicle sales of 50 157 units decreased by 0.6% (-308 units) compared to March 2022.
New passenger-vehicle sales of 31 631 units decreased by 6.4% (-2 157 units) compared to March 2022.
New light-commercial vehicle sales of 15 529 units increased by 11.1% (1 556 units) compared to March 2022.
Export sales of 34 134 units increased by 3.1% (1 026 units) compared to March 2022.

10 best-selling car brands in South Africa in March 2023

Another month, another overwhelmingly dominant sales performance from Toyota. The Japanese firm’s local arm registered a hefty 13 406 units in March 2023 (translating to a market share of 26.7%), almost 2 000 sales more than it achieved in the preceding (admittedly shorter) month. The Volkswagen Group (6 139 units) was again 2nd on the list, though the German company at least managed to stretch its lead over the 3rd-placed Suzuki (3 734 units).

Hyundai (3 032 units) climbed a place to 4th, finishing the month a mere 20 units ahead of Nissan (3 012 units), which consequently dropped a spot to 5th. Ford wasn’t far behind, with its 2 993 sales enough to keep it in 6th, while Isuzu (2 691 units) enjoyed a particularly strong month, moving up a position to 7th. With 2 058 registrations, Renault thus slipped a spot to 8th, with Haval (2 002 units) gaining a place to 9th and Kia (1 833 units) sliding a position to 10th.

Which brands finished just outside the top 10? Well, Chinese automaker Chery again had to settle for 11th, with its 1 502 units sold in March 2023 proving a record haul, and seeing it finish ahead of Indian firm Mahindra (1 434 units) and the BMW Group (1 394 units), with the latter reporting sales to Naamsa for the first time this year.

1. Toyota – 13 406 units

2. Volkswagen Group – 6 139 units

3. Suzuki – 3 734 units

4. Hyundai – 3 032 units

5. Nissan – 3 012 units

6. Ford – 2 993 units

7. Isuzu – 2 691 units

8. Renault – 2 058 units

9. Haval – 2 002 units

10. Kia – 1 833 units

10 best-selling vehicles in South Africa in March 2023

*Isuzu’s Struandale-built D-Max scooped 2nd place in March 2023.*

As you might very well have guessed, the Toyota Hilux was again South Africa’s most popular new vehicle, with as many as 3 920 examples registered in March 2023. Interestingly, the Isuzu D-Max (2 289 units, including 500 sales to government) climbed a spot to snaffle 2nd, pushing the new Ford Ranger (2 247 units) down to 3rd. Yes, that means the podium comprised a trio of locally produced bakkies (here’s the full list of SA’s best-selling bakkies for March 2023).

The Kariega-built Volkswagen Polo Vivo (2 016 units) – recently bolstered with the launch of a subtly updated GT flagship – moved up a position to 4th, forcing the Prospecton-produced Toyota Corolla Cross (1 839 units) down to 5th. The Toyota Hi-Ace (1 600 units) gained a spot to finish the month in 6th, while the Toyota Fortuner made a strong return to the top 10, with 1 409 registrations across the country (including 281 units courtesy of the rental channel). As a reminder, the Japanese firm’s locally produced adventure SUV lost the title of SA’s best-selling SUV in 2022 (and failed to crack the top 15 overall in both January and February 2023), though recently benefited from a handy refresh.

The long-in-the-tooth Nissan NP200 (1 404 units) and Suzuki-built Toyota Starlet (1 276 units) effectively swapped places compared with February 2023 – thus finishing in 8th and 9th respectively – while the Suzuki Swift tumbled 4 positions to close out the table on 1 248 registrations.

What about models that just failed to crack the top 10? Well, the Volkswagen Polo hatchback (1 008 units) had to settle for 11th, ahead of the Hyundai Grand i10 (977 units), Mahindra Pik Up (966 units), Haval Jolion (940 units) and Chery Tiggo 4 Pro (918 units).

1. Toyota Hilux – 3 920 units

2. Isuzu D-Max – 2 289 units

3. Ford Ranger – 2 247 units

4. Volkswagen Polo Vivo – 2 016 units

5. Toyota Corolla Cross – 1 839 units

6. Toyota Hi-Ace – 1 600 units

7. Toyota Fortuner – 1 409 units

8. Nissan NP200 – 1 404 units

9. Toyota Starlet – 1 276 units

10. Suzuki Swift – 1 248 units

Top 10 vehicles exported from South Africa in March 2023

*BMW Group SA exported nearly 6 000 examples of the X3 in March 2023.*

Though the Volkswagen Polo hatchback again missed out on a top-10 finish on the domestic front, it was the runaway leader on the export charts, with a whopping 10 029 units shipped overseas. Meanwhile, with the brand again reporting figures to Naamsa for March 2023, the Rosslyn-built BMW X3 (5 988 units) grabbed 2nd, with the Silverton-manufactured Ford Ranger (5 708 units) close behind in 3rd and the Toyota Hilux (3 588 units) relegated to 4th.

As is so often the case, the Isuzu D-Max, Nissan Navara, Toyota Corolla Cross, Toyota Fortuner, Nissan NP200 and Toyota Corolla Quest made up the export numbers. We should, of course, point out Mercedes-Benz did not submit detailed figures, so it’s not clear exactly how many new C-Class sedan units were exported during the month (for the record, though, Naamsa’s estimate for March 2023 stands at 7 075 units).

1. Volkswagen Polo (hatch) – 10 029 units

2. BMW X3 – 5 988 units

3. Ford Ranger – 5 708 units

4. Toyota Hilux – 3 588 units

5. Isuzu D-Max – 743 units

6. Nissan Navara – 450 units

7. Toyota Corolla Cross – 98 units

8. Toyota Fortuner – 81 units

9. Nissan NP200 – 29 units

10. Toyota Corolla Quest – 28 units

Sales outlook for the remainder of 2023

So, where to from here for South Africa’s new-vehicle market? Well, Naamsa believes the latest interest-rate hike as well as a multitude of other factors will have a further impact on the “shrinking disposable income purse many consumers rely on when making new vehicle sales decisions”.

“While vehicle production is ramping up and the overall performance [of] vehicle sales and exports sales has been steadily increasing, the continued monetary policy tightening, domestic and global slowing growth, as well as energy shortages will have greater spill over to the overall performance of the industry,” says Naamsa, before adding it “remains upbeat” that its forecast of domestic sales growth of 6.3% and export sales growth of 8.3% for 2023 is still achievable.

ALSO READ: 10 best-selling bakkies in South Africa for March 2023

Meanwhile, WesBank’s Gaoaketse also points to the latest increase in the prime lending rate as cause for concern for the new-vehicle market.

“In addition to making existing linked finance agreements more expensive, the higher-than-expected interest-rate hike will no doubt challenge affordability and future purchase decisions for the new-vehicle market, which could begin impacting sales volumes over the coming months,” warns Gaoaketse.

Despite this, WesBank “continues to expect market growth this year off the back of improved supply and the need to refresh the replacement cycle that has been delayed over the past few years”.

ALSO READ: Here’s how many EVs and hybrids were sold in SA in 2022

NADA’s McGraw takes a likewise positive stance, listing various factors that could see more new-vehicle sales growth.

“Looking ahead, we believe that as many local companies have entered a new financial year, there may be a greater appetite for them to start buying again. Ongoing load-shedding and changes in company policies are seeing many more people now returning to work in their offices instead of at home, which means they are driving daily, which could also be a spur for new-car sales.

“We also believe that the increase in interest rate may result in a speed up of the buy-down trend. We are hopeful that people intending to replace their cars this year will still do so, as there is a host of new models arriving and new-vehicle stock levels are much improved. This could lead to more aggressive trading,” concludes McGraw.

Volkswagen Polo Vivo GT (2023) Price & Specs

Volkswagen South Africa has officially unwrapped an “upgraded” version of its locally built Polo Vivo GT. Here are the details and pricing…

Volkswagen South Africa has launched an “upgraded” Polo Vivo GT. So, what’s new about the revised version of the locally produced, prolonged-lifecycle hatchback? Well, here’s what you need to know.

The updated Polo Vivo GT sticks with the outgoing version’s turbocharged 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine, which sends unchanged peak outputs of 81 kW and 200 Nm to the front axle, again via a 6-speed manual gearbox.

What does the upgrade to the Polo Vivo 1.0 TSI GT – which sits right at the summit of the strong-selling 5-variant Vivo range – then entail? Well, it appears to be an entirely (and rather subtle) cosmetic exercise, led by the adoption of a new exterior silver theme. Yes, the previously body coloured side-mirror caps switch to a silver finish, matching the 17-inch “Mirabeau” alloy wheels.

*Spot the difference: original on the left, updated model on the right. Yes, the changes are subtle.*

Meanwhile, the decals that run along the 5-door hatchback’s flanks change from black to silver, and take on a new design, too (the “GT” logo, for instance, is smaller than before and now positioned on the front rather than rear doors). Round back, the GT insignia likewise switches from black to silver. We also noticed the availability of a fresh paint finish; the “Wild Cherry metallic” option you see in the accompanying images.

Inside, the silver theme continues, with the Polo Vivo GT gaining dashboard inserts in the bright hue. In addition, the colour used for the cloth insert and top-stitching on the front seats has been changed to red, though the headrests interestingly now lose the top-stitching detail. Grey stitching has been applied to the gear-lever and handbrake gaiters, while the mats feature “GT” logos embroidered in red.

Other standard features include the Safety Package, the Lights and Vision Package, cruise control, faux-aluminium pedals, Anthracite headlining, a chrome-trimmed tailpipe, lowered suspension (by 15 mm) and a black rear spoiler.

How much does the VW Polo Vivo GT cost in South Africa?

Volkswagen Polo Vivo GT – R332 800

A 3-year/120 000 km warranty is included in the price, while service and maintenance plans (with intervals of 15 000 km) are available as options.

Buy a used Volkswagen Polo Vivo on Cars.co.za!

Diesel Relief for April 2023

Good news for owners of diesel vehicles as the price is coming down. Here are the changes in the prices of fuel for April 2023.

There’s some good news for diesel car owners and operators as unaudited data from the Central Energy Fund (CEF) is pointing to a substantial decrease in the price of diesel as we head into April 2023.

The price of illuminating paraffin will also come down, but sadly there’s nothing significant for the price of petrol. Based on the latest numbers, the decrease for 95 ULP petrol stands at 1.5 cents a litre, while 93 ULP goes down by around 4c/l. Diesel relief is far more noteworthy, with a reduction of around 78 c/l and illuminating paraffin down by R1.39/l. The official adjustment of the fuel prices come on the first Wednesday of the new month, which is the 5th April 2023.

“The main driver behind the decreases is lower international product prices, while the higher average Rand/US Dollar exchange rate is counter-balancing these gains. The weaker Rand is eroding around 40c/l of the decreases meaning the decreases could have been more significant had the Rand been stronger throughout March,” notes the AA.

It’s also important to remember that the two main levies on fuel (General fuel levy and Road accident fund) will not be increasing this year. These increases usually come into effect in April, but the Minister of Finance confirmed this would not happen in the February budget speech.

Fuel Price Forecast for April 2023 in South Africa

Fuel Type	March 23 Inland	March 23 Coast	April 23 (projected) Inland	April 23 (Projected) Coast
Petrol Unleaded 93	R22.60	R21.95	R22.56	R21.91
Petrol Unleaded 95	R22.90	R22.25	R22.88	R22.24
Diesel 0.05% (wholesale)	R21.60	R21.95	R20.82	R20.18
Diesel 0.005% (wholesale)	R21.70	R21.06	R20.92	R20.28

Toyota Fortuner (2023) Launch Review

Toyota South Africa has given the popular Toyota Fortuner a minor update for 2023. We drove the Japanese brand’s 7-seater adventure SUV in the Great Karoo to see whether the subtle changes are enough to keep it near the top of local sales charts.

What’s new on the Toyota Fortuner 2023?

*New lighting and bumper design for this update. Indicator lamps are below the fog lamps now*

Toyota South Africa Motors’ (TSAM) juggernaut bakkie and bakkie-based models – the Hilux and Fortuner – tend to have particularly light, but regular, updates throughout their life cycles. This year, it was the turn of the Fortuner, which has received new 18-inch wheels, a reshaped front bumper, as well as revised grille- and LED designs. Also, the front and rear indicator elements now light up sequentially.

A new white/black option has been added to the colour palette (but the 2-tone scheme is only available on 2.8-litre derivatives). The 2.4-litre variants, in turn, gain the lighting design from the pre-facelift 2.8-litre versions and have been updated cosmetically to more closely resemble their larger-engined siblings.

The Toyota’s interior is largely unchanged in terms of specification, bar a red/black leather combination that complements the new 2-tone exterior option. According to TSAM, this update to the Fortuner does not incorporate any changes to the suspension, steering setup or NVH levels of the model.

2023 Toyota Fortuner price and specs

Does the 2023 Toyota Fortuner have more power?

2023 Toyota Fortuner SUV — *The power outputs of the 2.4- and 2.8-litre derivatives remain the same.*

No, both the 2.4-litre- and the 2.8-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel engines’ power/torque outputs remain the same for the 2023 model. That means the Fortuner ships with either 110 kW/400 Nm (2.4-litre) or 150 kW/500 Nm (2.8-litre), with your choice of 4×2 or 4×4. Only the entry-level 2.4-litre 4×2 version can be specced with a manual transmission, the rest are all equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

We only sampled the top-spec VX derivative on the local launch, which included the red/black interior.

Ford may have a 184 kW/600 Nm 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel in its arsenal, but the power and torque delivery of the 2.8-litre Fortuner feels ample, especially considering it virtually matches the Everest’s bi-turbo 2.0-litre 4-pot (154 kW/500 Nm). Compare the 2.8GD-6 4×4 VX with the Everest 2.0 BiTurbo 4×4 Sport.

Toyota has evidently quickly caught up in the power struggle that appears to be happening in the bakkie segment, in which an increasing number of buyers seek multi-purpose vehicles (like a Fortuner) that can tow large trailers, carry 7 people and still easily pull off rapid overtaking manoeuvres at around 120 kph.

While Toyota does offer this engine in a more powerful spec in the Hilux GR-Sport, the Fortuner GR-Sport hasn’t been confirmed for our market, TSAM is considering its business case for the local market.

Has the interior been updated?

*Red and black leather is now available on the 2.8-litre derivatives.*

The new dual-tone leather is a subtle upgrade that offers a modicum of premium design without being overly showy. Toyota doesn’t have a massive infotainment system to match the Ford Everest’s (yet) so it feels comparatively a bit basic in functionality, but you still get the necessities such as Android Auto and Apple Carplay. It would be nice to have more than 1 USB port up front to match the 2 ports in the rear.

How Toyota Fortuner will lose its title as SA’s best-selling SUV

Is the Toyota Fortuner better to drive?

*No official changes have been made to the suspension or steering.*

Despite TSAM claiming that nothing has changed in terms of the SUV’s suspension or steering setups, we couldn’t help but feel that the 2023 Fortuner seemed a little more refined than the outgoing model.

We drove the 2.8GD-6 4×4 VX on a variety of asphalt and dirt roads (including the Swartberg Pass) and, whether it be the steering, which feels a bit better weighted and accurate, or the ride refinement and low cabin noise on dirt roads, the updated Fortuner seems to have come out of the factory slightly improved.

Some of this may be down to manufacturing improvements that were implemented on the Toyota Fortuner following the Prospecton factory’s enforced shutdown due to the KZN floods in 2022.

Toyota Fortuner pricing and after-sales

Toyota Fortuner 2.4 GD6 RB MT	R653 500
Toyota Fortuner 2.4 GD6 RB AT	R677 500
Toyota Fortuner 2.4 GD6 4×4 AT	R709 800
Toyota Fortuner 2.8 GD6 RB AT	R794 600
Toyota Fortuner 2.8 GD6 RB VX AT	R837 800
Toyota Fortuner 2.8 GD6 4×4 AT	R873 500
Toyota Fortuner 2.8 GD6 4×4 VX AT	R915 400

A 3-year/100 000 km warranty and a 9-service/90 000 km service plan (with intervals of 10 000 km) are included in the purchase price.

Is the Toyota Fortuner a match for the new Ford Everest?

*The Fortuner is renowned for excellent reliability and resale values.*

Right now, the Toyota Fortuner seems a bit outgunned by the 3rd-generation Ford Everest, which is admittedly an all-new model replete with bold, eye-catching styling and a rather swanky interior…

The Fortuner, however, has proven itself a reliable choice for thousands of South African adventurers. Its tech and how you interact with the functions may seem a little dated compared with the Everest, but after 8 years on the market (this generation was introduced in 2016), you know it’s a proven product.

It may lose some buyers to the Everest (because the Ford is the more sophisticated product), but I think most buyers looking to spend R1 million on a 4×4 SUV will remain loyal to Toyota, with its sterling brand reputation. Also, the top-spec Fortuner is R50k cheaper than the entry-level Everest (March 2023).

Search for a used Toyota Fortuner here

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New Hyundai Kona set to arrive in SA late in 2023

The 2nd-generation Hyundai Kona has shed its “i30 hatchback on stilts” image in favour of a space-age small crossover design. The newcomer, which is notably larger than its predecessor, will be launched in South Africa during the 4th quarter of 2023.

The Korean manufacturer says the development of the all-new Hyundai Kona started with the EV variant, which explains its “EV-derived futuristic design”. However, the 2nd-gen small crossover will be produced in internal-combustion engine (ICE), petrol-electric hybrid (HEV) and all-electric (EV) guises. There will be N Line versions of all variants, although the firm has not said anything about a next-gen Kona N.

In terms of practicality, the newcomer is both longer (by 150 mm) and wider (by 25 mm) than the original model; it measures 4 355 mm (courtesy of a wheelbase that has been lengthened by 60 mm to 2 660 mm). It is also said to offer more legroom (77 mm) and headroom (11 mm) for 2nd-row occupants, who are afforded 1 402 mm of shoulder room, plus 723 litres of luggage space (up by a significant 179 litres).

The new Kona’s front-end styling, which is dominated by a full-width horizontal lighting element, is reminiscent of that of the Staria. On ICE and HEV variants, the bumper features a 3-dimensional garnish and skid plate instead of a radiator grille. The latter variant comes equipped with upper and lower active air flaps (AAF), while the former is fitted with an upper AFF only to lower the model’s drag coefficient.

The model’s flanks are characterised by black cladding, sculpted side panels and an ornate chrome strip that stretches from the base of the A-pillars to the leading edge of the tailgate spoiler. The rear end also scores a full-width lighting set-up, along with a high-mounted brake light integrated within the spoiler.

2023 Hyundai Kona rear three-quarter view.

Meanwhile, the Hyundai Motor Company (HMC) says that the N Line versions will be offered with optional black side-mirror caps and roof, along with a wing-type spoiler, more aggressive front and rear designs, model-specific 19-inch alloy wheels, twin exhaust outlets and silver side skirts.

The new Kona’s EV roots are evident even in the ICE and HEV variants of the model; a column-type shift-by-wire gear selector is positioned on the steering column, which facilitates an open, clean console structure (highlighted by LED ambient lighting) that offers more storage space than the current model.

The fascia is dominated by a pair of 12.3-inch displays (for the digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen), which are integrated into a single panel and support over-the-air (OTA) software updates. Despite its expansive electronic interface, the Kona still offers audio system- and climate control buttons, a drive-mode selector knob, as well the usual multiple charging ports and a wireless charging pad.

Meanwhile, the fully foldable rear bench allows for the Kona’s load bay capacity to be expanded. Hyundai has not stated a claimed utility space figure at this stage, but the manufacturer says that, depending on which market it’s offered, the model will be available with a customisable “smart power tailgate” and that the car can, if so specified, be locked, unlocked and started via a smartphone app (Digital Key 2 Touch).

2023 Hyundai Kona front three-quarter view.

Although it’s unlikely that all of the following features will be offered in our market, the new Kona may be equipped with smart cruise control, navigation-based smart cruise control, lane-following assist, highway driving assist, a surround-view monitor, rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance assist, parking distance warning, reverse parking collision-avoidance assist and remote-smart parking assist systems.

According to HMC, optional advanced driver assistance systems include forward collision-avoidance assist, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot collision avoidance assist, safe exit warning, intelligent speed limit assist, driver attention warning and blind-spot view monitor, as well as high-beam assist.

2023 Hyundai Kona driving on a dirt road.

As for the expected local line-up of the 2nd-gen Kona, it’s unlikely that we’ll see the all-electric version reach South Africa, but it’s not inconceivable that, given the recent launches of the rivalling Corolla Cross Hybrid and Haval Jolion HEV, that the 104 kW/265 Nm hybrid may make an appearance at some point.

The ICE line-up, however, sounds very familiar. Base derivatives of the new Kona are likely to be powered by a 110 kW/180 Nm naturally aspirated 2.0-litre 4-cylinder petrol mated with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Higher-specced derivatives, in turn, may be powered by a 146 kW/265 Nm 1.6-litre 4-cylinder turbopetrol motor mated with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

Hyundai Automotive South Africa’s general manager of corporate communications Deon Sonnekus told Cars.co.za that the new Kona was set to arrive in local dealerships during the 4th quarter of the year (so, from October onwards). Although Sonnekus could not yet confirm the new range’s line-up, he did say that an N Line version was a possibility and that the hybrid variant remained under consideration.

Refreshed Porsche Cayenne’s New Interior Unwrapped

Porsche has revealed the extensively updated interior of the upcoming facelifted Cayenne, handing the SUV an interesting mix of digital and analogue controls…

The facelifted Porsche Cayenne will be fully revealed on 18 April 2023 at the Auto Shanghai show in China, but the Zuffenhausen-based firm has released images of its best-selling SUV’s extensively overhauled interior a little early.

The company describes the new Porsche Driver Experience arrangement as a “ground-breaking display and control concept”, saying it has completely redesigned the entire instrument panel, centre console and upper part of the inside of the doors. As you’ve no doubt noticed, the new cockpit borrows numerous elements from the fully electric Taycan, including a free-standing digital instrument cluster.

As in the Taycan, this configurable 12.6-inch curved display does not require a hood. Various modes are on offer, including a “classic” setting, which Porsche says transfers the trademark 5-tube cluster design into the digital age.

The automatic gear selector has furthermore been relocated to the facia, freeing up room on the likewise redesigned centre console for a large air-conditioning controller (not to mention more storage space). In addition, Porsche will offer an optional passenger display in the refreshed Bratislava-built Cayenne.

*A sketch of the refreshed Cayenne’s cabin (and a hint of the rear styling, too).*

Porsche says it placed focus on achieving the “right balance between digital and analogue elements”. Yes, that means despite all the digital elements, there are also a number of traditional physical controls. The redesigned control lever for the various driver-assistance systems, for instance, is now sited on the redesigned steering wheel, as is the drive-mode switch. Meanwhile, the air-con control panel combines touch recognition, haptic feedback and mechanical switches. There’s also a physical volume controller.

The 12.3-inch central screen is joined by an optionally integrated 10.9-inch passenger display. The additional touchscreen cannot be seen from the driver’s seat (thanks to a special foiling), which the German firm says ensures the driver won’t be distracted.

Finally, the updated Cayenne receives a cooled smartphone storage area, complete with inductive charging, along with extended integration of online services and a pair of fast-charging USB-C ports in the front storage compartment (plus another 2 in the rear area of the centre console).

Look out for the full reveal of the facelifted Cayenne on 18 April 2023, when we’ll find out more about exterior design changes, powertrain upgrades and further under-the-skin alterations.

Buy a used Porsche Cayenne on Cars.co.za!

1000hp Lamborghini Revuelto LB744 Announced

Meet the first-ever full production Lambo with both a V12 and electrification, its the Lamborghini Revuelto and its armed with over 1000 hp!

The new Lamborghini Revuelto is the brand’s 6th new V12-powered Lambo in 60 years and it represents a new chapter in the brand’s story.

The big news is the 6.5-litre V12 engine is an updated and enhanced version of the Aventador’s, but there’s a power boost, making it the most powerful road-going 12-cylinder motor. There’s 600 kW and 725 Nm, but that’s not including the new hybrid tech.

MORE: We drive the Lamborghini Huracan Evo

There are three electric motors, with two on the front axle and one located in the new 8-speed dual-clutch transmission that powers the rear wheels. There’s motors each make around 108 kW. Impressively, the car can run on electric power only, but power is restricted to 130 kW as the V12 stays silent. With this hybrid setup, the Revuelto is all-wheel drive and has torque vectoring capability. There’s a 3.8 kWh battery pack.

With both the petrol V12 and three electric motors working in harmony, 1 001 hp (736 kW) is on offer. Dial up the launch control and the Lamborghini Revuelto will sprint to 100 kph in 2.5 seconds, hit 200 kph in under 7 seconds and go to a top speed of 350 kph.

Customers will be able to playing with the various driving modes, one of which is all-new. Citta (City) put the Revuelto into all-electric mode, but your favourites like Strada, Sport and Corsa are there too, if you want access to the V12. Sport mode now has three sub-modes; Recharge, Hybrid and Performance.

Despite its performance credentials, the Lamborghini Revuelto boasts quite a number of creature comforts and is the first Lambo to get a proper safety suite that includes things like lane-departure warning, blind spot, adaptive cruise control and rear-cross traffic alert. The car will come with goodies like LED Matrix headlights, over-the-air updates and connectivity like SiriusXM satellite radio and Amazon Alexa.

This is a new chapter for Lamborghini as there’ll be a convertible and faster, track-focused versions of the Revuelto, but critically, it heralds the electric age for the brand.

Want to buy a new or used Lamborghini? Check out some of the gorgeous machines we have

Why you don’t need a double-cab 4×4 with low range

There’s guessing – and there’s knowing. And in a world of measurable and trackable everything, we know much more. And guess a lot less. Or at least, we should. And when in doubt, there’s always the ChatGPT option…

Double-cab bakkies are very expensive, but they remain in terrific demand. It is a market reality that, in our country, the traditional luxury sedan market has been conquested by double-cabs. Whereas the majority of South African upper-middle-class family car buyers bought a BMW 3 Series or Mercedes-Benz C-Class in the early 2000s, their vehicle asset of choice is now a Toyota Hilux or Ford Ranger.

This migration of luxury sedan buyers into double-cab bakkies has its consequences, because wealthy South Africans still live in the suburbs… okay, okay, the overwhelming majority of them do. They don’t live on farms. And double-cab bakkies, despite their leather-trimmed cabins festooned with big infotainment touchscreens, are fundamentally designed to work on farms. Not suburbs. Especially the 4×4 versions.

This is where the question of guessing or knowing applies. Why would you buy a vehicle specification with an expensive feature that you’ll never use? And the double-cab 4×4 bakkie is exactly that. Why? Because it has a low-range transfer case, which is rarely engaged – often, never.

Toyota Hilux double-cab 4x4 off-road-mode selector (right). — *How often is that selector dial turned fully clockwise?*

Very few double-cab 4x4s ever go ‘4L’

There are double-cab bakkie owners who live in the suburbs and occasionally journey into Botswana, Mozambique, Lesotho, Namibia or Zambia. They’ll use low-range gearing (4L) for a few driving hours on those adventure vacations. But they are in the minority.

In truth, many Hilux or Ranger double-cab 4×4 owners rarely engage low-range. And that’s such a waste, because they’ve paid for an effectively redundant mechanical feature that defines their vehicle choices. It begs the question: are most double-cab 4x4s surplus to requirements?

“No, they aren’t, because driving in 4×4 is much safer than 4×2, on dirt roads.” That’s true, in principle, but the theory around 4×4 traction and dirt road driving safety has changed significantly in the last 10 or so years. Why? Electronic stability control has become a standard feature in most double-cab bakkies.

Double-cab 4x2s have become much safer on dirt roads

I’ve done a lot of dirt road driving – over the worst corrugations imaginable. And I’ve rounded dirt road corners, where wind-blown sand ridges frame the apex. And yes, I always engage 4H on these journeys, believing the slight four-wheel-drive understeer bias will keep the rear axle from getting too wayward.

But there’s a caveat. All my dirt road journeys in the late 2000s and early 2010s, were in 4×4 bakkies without electronic stability control (ESP). The only traction enhancement and stability guardianship at my disposal was mechanical – by engaging 4H.

In the current market, all American and Japanese double-cab bakkies on sale in South Africa feature ESP. And that makes 4×4 traction and tracking stability, less of an absolute benefit for safer dirt-road driving. Framed differently: which is the safer vehicle to drive on an unscraped dirt road? A legacy double-cab 4×4 without ESP and 4H engaged, or a newer double-cab 4×2, with ESP on? It’s a tricky question.

New-generation Ford Ranger double- cab 4x4 on a sandy dirt road. — *You don’t need low-range for this* kind of off-road jaunt.

Low-range is overkill for 99% of your driving experience

If ESP makes a double-cab 4×2 much safer on tricky dirt roads, why bother with the 4×4? Especially if you’ll never use the low-range (4L) of that 2-speed transfer case? This is important. I am not disputing the absolute utility of 4H, but I am casting doubt on the value of 4L for most double-cab 4×4 owners.

The double-cab bakkie is not going to revert to farm life. These vehicles will continue proliferating in the ownership profile of urban buyers, as family vehicles. And if you can save money by not buying a 4×4 configuration you’ll never use, why wouldn’t you? Why should you pay for 4L, if you only need 4H?

“But I want 4×4 traction, for sand driving and accessing a remote Airbnb cabin, atop a climb with cross-axle terrain?” Okay. Sure. Volkswagen’s first Amarok proved you don’t need low-range gearing for that. Just an automatic transmission with a really short 1st gear, lots of engine power and a lockable rear diff.

Bakkies are coming to market with more powerful engines, which solves part of that equation. Automatic transmissions are gaining gears, not losing them. And rear differential locks are now near-ubiquitous.

Toyota Hilux double-cab 4x4 on a sand dune. — *Bakkies have become more powerful, negating the need for low-range in many sand-driving scenarios*.

You’ll probably never use low-range

The kind of terrain that requires 4L isn’t something your family will enjoy exploring while seated in a double-cab bakkie. Trust us. Every time you venture into low-range 4×4 terrain, the risk of cosmetic vehicle damage is huge. Have you priced a new bumper or fender on a R900 000 double-cab? Quite.

Dirt-road travelling is a lived reality for the South African driving experience. Unlike many other global bakkie markets, South Africans journey on dirt roads for adventure, not only utility. Unless you drive on dirt roads weekly, they can be tricky to traverse.

Any assistance system that helps a driver operate safer on dirt roads is valuable. But the question is which configuration of double-cab, contextual of price, is the best solution? Because it could be a drivetrain hybrid between the current 4×4 and 4×2 double-cabs.

A double-cab 4×4 with ESP engaged and running in 4H is the safest dirt-road-journeying vehicle of its type. But you still carry the cost, complexity and weight of a transfer case with low-range, which you probably don’t need and might never use. Is there a market for double-cab bakkies with only 4H?

First-generation Volkswagen Amarok scaling a muddy incline. — *The original Amarok V6 demonstrates why lots of primary gears and power, can make low-range redundant*.

VW had the right idea

When you compare bakkies in the R900 000 to R1-million pricing spectrum, the difference between a 4×2 and 4×4 double-cab (of similar trim and specification) is about R50 000. That difference in pricing equates to about a year’s diesel double-cab running costs.

Wealthy buyers are often strangely price-sensitive when they feel shortchanged by unrealised value. Yet it’s strange how they keep absorbing the opportunity cost of paying for a mechanical feature they don’t want (or need) when buying a double-cab 4×4.

Many would prefer a double-cab 4×4 with only 4H. There’s no guessing: we know that is the most appropriate South African double-cab bakkie configuration for most buyers. Volkwagen’s previous-generation Amarok 3.0 V6 TDI proved this to be fact.

The question is: Which current bakkie model range might offer a 4H-only double-cab 4×4 again?

BMW XM (2023) International Launch Review

Much has been said about the polarising styling of the BMW XM, but does the petrol-electric hybrid SUV deliver a driving experience that’s impressive enough to silence the critics? Ciro De Siena travelled to Arizona to drive the newcomer!

What is the XM? It’s the first completely bespoke M car since the M1: a plug-in hybrid SUV with all-wheel drive, powered by the twin-turbo 4.4-litre V8 of the M5 super sedan, which is mated with a 145-kW electric motor that is built into the 8-speed automatic transmission.

Now I can almost hear what some of you are thinking: “How did the BMW M division go from making a car like the M1 (the Giugiaro-designed supercar, of which 453 units were produced from 1978 to 1981) to a vehicle like the XM?”

Well, it’s fair to say that the world has changed significantly since the M1 came out in the late Seventies and, while car companies must obviously keep up with the times if they want to stay in business, I do feel like BMW set out to make something rather special here.

For starters, the XM is more powerful than a Lamborghini Urus! In North American parlance, it has 653 horsepower (480 kW) and 800 Nm of torque and this Heffalump is said to blitz from 0 to 100 kph in 4.3 seconds, which is the same time quoted for the new M2 manual.

So, yeah, it’s VERY quick, but being fast is not enough for BMW. The M Division wants to ensure that its cars are highly dynamic; that’s why it devised a launch route in the Arizona mountains – so that we can get a feeling for what the XM is like through the twisties.

So then, what’s the new BMW XM like to drive?

I was immediately impressed with the multitude of experiences that the XM can offer its pilot. For example, you can press the M hybrid button (this is the first car to ever have an M hybrid button) and what it does is lock the vehicle into electric mode – BMW claims that you can travel up to a maximum of 90 km (all the way up to 140 kph) in pure electric mode.

In other words, you get the EV experience (in a way, a sort of spaceship experience) and then, along with the electric mode, you hear very cool Hans Zimmer “iconic sounds” that grow in intensity as you accelerate… It doesn’t necessarily get louder, just sort of more intense. It’s tricky to describe, but the effect is very clever; Mr Zimmer is a really smart guy.

And then you can switch the BMW XM into hybrid mode and get the full benefits of the drivetrain (the electric motor, the twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 and its 8-speed ‘box) and, when cruising around town, you discern just a little whiff (or faint taste) of that V8 combined with the Hans Zimmer sci-fi audio effects. All in all, it’s a fascinating aural experience.

So, the BMW XM can be a comfortable performance SUV, a comfortable “EV” and you can plug it in to maximise its electric range. Of course, it can also regenerate energy – in fact, the BMW’s indicated range actually went up while I was driving it (sedately) in hybrid mode – the full electric range, that is. Clearly, this is a very broad-spectrum car with many talents.

I don’t see why you couldn’t daily this car if you wanted something that really really stood out, but this is an M car at the end of the day, there are 2 M buttons on the steering wheel (M1 and M2, in bright red) and carbon-fibre shift paddles.

Does the BMW XM perform like an M car?

Suffice it to say, when I got the rare opportunity to unleash all 480 of the BMW’s kilowatts, I was instantly thrown back in the driver’s seat. The BMW XM may be a heavy car (it tips the scales at just under 2.8 tonnes), but it positively hurtles towards the horizon.

You really can feel the electric motor filling in that initial hole in the torque that you might expect from an engine with large turbos. You really do get virtually linear power delivery out of this drivetrain, which is amazing – that’s like the Holy Grail of what BMW does (linear power delivery) and it’s managed to integrate that into a giant all-wheel-drive hybrid SUV.

The Lamborghini Urus has 650 horsepower. This has 653, so I imagine the M Division’s big wigs said: “Oh gents, just um, turn up the wick a little to get those extra three in there.”

But how about this? BMW wasn’t satisfied with building the world’s most powerful SUV. It has made a more powerful one. It’s called the Label Red, which will be coming to Mzansi.

BMW XM Label Red — *The potent XM Label Red is due in South Africa in 2023.*

Not the Red Label (that’s what I called it earlier by mistake, but was swiftly corrected), it is the Label Red and, just for fun, it has another 70 kW and an extra 200 Nm. You’re looking at 550 kW and 1 000 Newton meters in that car (with some extra red bits on the outside).

Meanwhile, the BMW XM’s suspension setup feels better than that of the other bonkers SUV the Munich-based brand makes – the X6 M (quite possibly my least favourite BMW). In that car, the suspension never feels quite happy about itself; it never feels quite settled; you get this sort of weird weight-shifting mid-corner, which doesn’t inspire a lot of confidence.

But the XM is completely different. While I drove it, I felt I knew exactly what each of its tyres was doing. In a way, the XM’s driving experience is more akin to that of an M5 than an X6 M… It just seems significantly more settled and much more planted than the latter; I felt like I could explore its limits with confidence – that’s the mark of a great luxury sportscar.

What about the XM’s interior?

BMW has also done a fine job of making the XM’s cabin shrink around the driver; this is a sizeable vehicle – when you’re behind the ‘wheel, the A-pillar on the front passenger’s side feels like it’s very far away from you, but the centre console is quite wide and the curve of the armrest sort of comes out towards you. As for the aft accommodation, there really is an enormous amount of occupant space at the back – it’s a big highlight of the cabin layout.

The front seats are decidedly sporty. Even though they offer massage functions (among other things), they’re neither as shapely, nor as bolstered, as those you get in an M4 coupe, for example, but the driver sits in more of a bucket seat than a plush luxury-GT chair. The steering wheel is an M ‘wheel that’s been transplanted from an M4, M5 or indeed, X6 M.

Overall, it’s amazing how the XM’s cockpit seems to match the multitude of talents that the model offers. When you’re cruising around in BMW’s newcomer, it’s a big, comfortable cruiser and when you’re having a bit of fun on a twisty road, it feels like a snug sportscar.

BMW XM interior — *The rear passenger quarter is properly capacious and suitably comfortable.*

Summary

Considering that the BMW XM’s starting price is R3.4 million, BMW South Africa is unlikely to sell many units of this model (how much stock it will be allocated is another story), but when you see one, you will turn to look at it – it really is an attention-grabbing machine.

Yes, the design is divisive, but BMW probably did that on purpose. The Bavarian brand wants you to look at the XM no matter what and it accomplished its mission in that regard.

But for your 3 and a half million Rand, you will get a car that offers exemplary rear-passenger comfort, notable driver engagement and the complete “sports luxury barge” experience that would get if you bought an M5, but in a massive SUV package, which is obviously very desirable – this is the kind of car that opulent buyers want these days.

The XM is a lot of car. It’s many different cars in one – and that’s what I like most about it.

Buy a BMW on Cars.co.za

Another Off-Road Special? Ford Ranger Tremor Revealed!

First the Stormtrak, then the Wildtrak X and now the Ford Ranger Tremor. Yes, the Blue Oval brand has revealed yet another derivative of its new bakkie…

Ford in Europe has whipped the wraps off its new Ranger Tremor, an “off-road focused” version of the double-cab bakkie featuring a “substantially reworked chassis” with special suspension upgrades.

The Ranger Tremor is based on the XLT derivative but shares various chassis and technology upgrades – plus the new full-time all-wheel-drive system – with the recently revealed Wildtrak X. Like that higher-spec model, Ford says the Tremor has been designed for buyers who require “enhanced capability in challenging off-road conditions”.

Upgrades over the XLT include position‑sensitive Bilstein dampers, off-road-focused driver-assistance systems (such as Trail Turn Assist and Trail Control), all-terrain tyres and model-specific styling. There’s also the Dearborn-based firm’s new Flexible Rack System – optional on the Tremor and comprising a folding roof rack with adjustable sliding rear load hoop – designed to maximise load-carrying ability for longer items.

*Note the Ranger Tremor’s twin front tow hooks.*

Like the Wildtrak X, the Ranger Tremor scores a 26 mm increase in ride height plus a 30 mm wider track. Distinctive exterior updates include extended wheel-arch mouldings, a long-leg tubular sportsbar, cast aluminium side steps and exposed twin front tow hooks. This derivative furthermore features Boulder Grey exterior details and a dark finish for its grille.

Inside, you’ll find water-resistant vinyl trim that Ford promises is easy to clean. The pre-wired overhead switch pack, meanwhile, is optional on this model in Europe, offering 6 inputs for winches, LED light bars and other accessories.

Mirroring the approach taken with the Wildtrak X, the Euro-spec Ranger Tremor – a nameplate with a history that stretches back to 2002 – is offered exclusively with the 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder bi-turbodiesel engine, which here generates 150 kW and 500 Nm (delivered to all 4 corners courtesy of a 10-speed automatic transmission).

So, will the new Ranger Tremor be offered in South Africa? Well, Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa has remained tight-lipped on the matter, though it’s worth noting Ranger units for European markets are sourced from the Silverton facility in Gauteng…

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

Toyota Fortuner bounces back! SA’s best-selling cars in March 2023

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Why you don’t need a double-cab 4×4 with low range

There’s guessing – and there’s knowing. And in a world of measurable and trackable everything, we know much more. And guess a lot less. Or at least, we should. And when in doubt, there’s always the ChatGPT option…

Very few double-cab 4x4s ever go ‘4L’

Double-cab 4x2s have become much safer on dirt roads

Low-range is overkill for 99% of your driving experience

You’ll probably never use low-range

VW had the right idea

Related content:

BMW XM (2023) International Launch Review

Much has been said about the polarising styling of the BMW XM, but does the petrol-electric hybrid SUV deliver a driving experience that’s impressive enough to silence the critics? Ciro De Siena travelled to Arizona to drive the newcomer!

So then, what’s the new BMW XM like to drive?

Does the BMW XM perform like an M car?

What about the XM’s interior?

Summary

Related Content

Another Off-Road Special? Ford Ranger Tremor Revealed!

First the Stormtrak, then the Wildtrak X and now the Ford Ranger Tremor. Yes, the Blue Oval brand has revealed yet another derivative of its new bakkie…

Related content