Best Used Budget Hatchbacks in South Africa (2024-2015)

If you are looking to buy one of the best used budget hatchbacks in South Africa right now, what should you buy? #CarsAwards judge, Gero Lilleike explores the past Budget Car category winners and examines what’s on offer in the used car market. Take a look!

If you’re looking for the best used budget hatchbacks and only want the best options available in the used car market then you needn’t look further than the past #CarsAwards Budget Car winners!

Nearly a decade ago, Cars.co.za set out to establish South Africa’s most definitive and trusted car awards programme to recognise the best cars available in the new car market across various categories while simultaneously giving South African consumers the knowledge and power to make the best car buying decisions possible.

Since its inception in 2015, the Cars.co.za Awards, or #CarsAwards, has to date delivered 7 iterations of the programme, with the 8th instalment of the prestigious programme already underway to determine the best new cars in the local market for 2024/25.

Best Budget Cars in SA — *The #CarsAwards finalists represent the best cars across 13 categories.*

With almost a decade of #CarsAwards category winners on offer in the used car market, these cars still carry the recognition of the ultimate accolade and while they were acknowledged as the “best new buys” in their respective segments at the time, they can now be regarded as some of the best used budget hatchbacks you can buy.

As the saying goes, “Once a champion, always a champion” and consumers would be wise to at the very least have the past #CarsAwards winners on their shortlists when shopping for a used car.

With the above in mind, this article highlights the winners in the Budger Car category across all 7 iterations of the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards and will provide you with direct links to used car stock on Cars.co.za. We will also mention the runner-up finalists as they are also well worth consideration in your used car buying journey.

Which one of these award-winning, best used budget hatchbacks or finalists would you buy in the used car market? Let us know!

The cars on this list are ordered from the most recent #CarsAwards winner to the first winner back in 2016.

Best Used Budget Hatchbacks in South Africa (2024-2015)

Suzuki Baleno 1.5 GLX (2023/24)

The Suzuki Baleno 1.5 GLX was recognised as the best budget hatchback in the 2023/24 #CarsAwards and is one of the best used budget hatchbacks on the market.

It’s worth mentioning that the programme also included an Entry-Level Hatchback category (below R250 000) which included hatchbacks such as the Suzuki Swift 1.2 GLX, Renault Kger 1.0 Zen and Suzuki Celerio 1.0 GL.

The Baleno is powered by an economical, naturally-aspirated 1.5-litre petrol with 77 kW and 138 Nm of torque and is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission.

The Suzuki Baleno has been available in South Africa since 2016 and used car buyers have a wide range of options to choose from. The updated Baleno launched in South Africa in 2022.

While pricing for a new Suzuki Baleno starts from R255 900 to R327 900 (as of September 2024), buyers on a tighter budget are advised to consider a used Baleno that’s about 2-3 years old with the lowest mileage possible.

See all used Suzuki Baleno for sale on Cars.co.za

Alternatives to consider

The runners-up in the Budget Car category of the 2023/24 #CarsAwards sponsored by Absa include the Renault Clio 1.0 Turbo Zen and the Toyota Starlet 1.5 XR.

Buy a used Renault Clio on Cars.co.za

Buy a used Toyota Starlet on Cars.co.za

Toyota Starlet 1.4 XR (2020/21)

In the 2020/21 #CarsAwards, the Toyota Starlet 1.4 XR came out on top in the Budget Car category.

Note that the Entry Level Car category included hatchbacks such as the Suzuki Swift 1.2 GL (Winner), Hyundai Atos 1.1 Motion and Suzuki S-Presso 1.0 S-Edition.

This iteration of the Starlet was fitted with a naturally-aspirated 1.4-litre petrol engine that delivers 68 kW and 130 Nm of torque and was offered with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission.

Read our Toyota Starlet (2020) Review

The Toyota Starlet and indeed its Suzuki Baleno counterpart, represents excellent value as a used car buy. If you’re not sure which one to buy, take a look at our comprehensive comparison article which will help you decide.

There are currently over 750 used Toyota Starlets for sale on Cars.co.za!

Buy a used Toyota Starlet on Cars.co.za

Pricing for a new Toyota Starlet starts from R252 100 (Starlet 1.5 Xi) and goes up to R339 000 for the range-topping Starlet 1.5 XR automatic.

Alternatives to consider

Runners-up in the Budget Car category of the 2020/21 #CarsAwards included the Suzuki Baleno 1.4 GLX and the Suzuki Ignis 1.2 GLX.

Buy a used Suzuki Baleno on Cars.co.za

Buy a used Suzuki Ignis on Cars.co.za

Suzuki Swift 1.2 GLX (2019/20) and Suzuki Swift 1.2 GL (2018/2019)

Suzuki is a budget car champion and the Swift remains one of the best used cars you can buy.

A new generation Swift is due to arrive in South Africa in 2024.

The Swift 1.2 GL scooped the Budget Car category win in the 2018/19 #CarsAwards and followed up with another win in the 2019/20 iteration of the #CarsAwards where the Suzuki Swift 1.2 GLX took the category win with its tried-and-tested 1.2-litre naturally aspirated engine doing duty under the bonnet with 61 kW and 113 Nm of torque available and paired with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission.

Pricing for a new Suzuki Swift starts from R213 900 (Swift 1.2 GA) and goes up to R272 900 for the Swift 1.2 GLX.

Cars.co.za currently has well over 1 000 used Suzuki Swifts for sale and you can drive away in a low-mileage, award-winning Swift 1.2 GLX from about R120 000 while a low-mileage Swift 1.2 GL can be had for around R100 000.

Buy a used Suzuki Swift on Cars.co.za

Alternatives to consider

Runners-up in the Budget Car category of the 2019/20 #CarsAwards include the Kia Picanto 1.2 Style and the Volkswagen Polo Vivo Trendline.

Buy a used Kia Picanto on Cars.co.za

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

Suzuki Ignis 1.2 GL (2017/18)

The compact Suzuki Ignis joins the Swift and Baleno on the #CarsAwards champions podium and is a worthwhile budget car to consider as a used buy.

Read our 2017 Suzuki Ignis Review

There’s much to like about the Ignis and with a frugal 1.2-litre petrol engine under bonnet delivering 61 kW and 113 Nm of torque, this is a peppy urban runabout. The Suzuki Ignis arrived in South Africa in 2017 with an updated Ignis coming to market in 2020.

There are many attractive used Ignis’ for sale in the used car market and budget-conscious buyers would be wise to have the Ignis on their shortlist.

Buy a used Suzuki Ignis on Cars.co.za

Alternatives to consider

Runners-up in the 2017/18 #CarsAwards include the Kia Picanto 1.0 Style and the Volkswagen Take Up! 5-door.

Buy a used Kia Picanto on Cars.co.za

Buy a used Volkswagen Up! on Cars.co.za

Suzuki Celerio 1.2 GL (2016/17)

The long-standing Suzuki Celerio 1.2 GL is a budget car stalwart and when it arrived in South Africa in 2015, it became Suzuki’s entry-level budget car offering and became the Budget Car category champion in the 2016/17 #CarsAwards.

An all-new Suzuki Celerio came to market in 2022.

The first generation Celerio is fitted with a 4-cylinder, 1.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine that delivers 50 kW and 90 Nm while the second generation Celerio is powered by a 49 kW/89 Nm 1.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine.

With over 200 used Celerios currently for sale on Cars.co.za, buyers are not short of choice and the Celerio is particularly attractive for buyers with a budget under R100 000.

Buy a used Suzuki Celerio on Cars.co.za

Renault Sandero Expression (2015/2016)

The Renault Sandero Expression was the first Budget Car category winner in the inaugural 2015/16 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards.

The second-generation Renault Sandero came to market in 2014 fitted with Renault’s 0.9-litre, 3-cylinder turbopetrol engine paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. A facelifted Sandero arrived in South Africa in 2017.

The Sandero and the later Sandero Stepway were popular in South Africa and as a result there are numerous examples available in the used car market.

If you are serious about buying a used Sandero, we suggest you read our useful Renault Sandero (2014-2022) Buyer’s Guide.

Alternatives to consider

Runners-up for the 2015/16 #CarsAwards included the Suzuki Swift 1.2 GL and Volkswagen Take up!

Buy a used Suzuki Swift on Cars.co.za

Buy a used Volkswagen up! on Cars.co.za

Highlights from BMW Concours d’Elegance 2024

BMW owners and enthusiasts flocked to Mall of Africa last month to celebrate the best local examples of the Munich-based brand’s modern-classic models at the BMW Car Club Gauteng Concours d’Elegance 2024.

IMAGES: Stefan Kotze

Again sponsored by iTOO, the annual BMW Car Club Gauteng Concours d’Elegance attracted not only club members, but also a large crowd of brand aficionados who could not only ogle the beautiful metal on display, but also choose from a wide variety of BMW branded merchandise.

South Africans’ love affair with this brand certainly is passionate!

Also on display and receiving a lot of attention (and pre-orders) was the officially endorsed book on BMW’s Unique South African Story. The stunningly detailed and comprehensive publication was a labour of love for authors Marek Letowt and Johann Venter, and has now gone to print.

Limited quantities remain, so if you would like to add this to your library, order your copy now!

In this, the 43rd staging of the Concours since its inception in 1981, 5 major trophies were handed out, with a further three special awards for Best M car, Best 5 Series and Best 325is.

Find a classic BMW model listed for sale on Cars.co.za

Joining the cars vying for Concours honours was a magnificent display of historically significant BMW production cars, as well as racing machines. Uniquely South African BMWs, such as the E30 333i, E23 745i and very rare 2004 as well as 2000 SA could be viewed.

Watch our 50 years of BMW SA video series!

Mzansi’s love for BMW M cars – BMW Group SA Chronicles (Ep 6)

The story behind BMW’s iconic TV adverts + BMW SA exports – BMW Group SA Chronicles (Ep 5)

BMW 333i and 325iS – Legendary SA-only 3 Series models – BMW Group SA Chronicles (Ep 4)

The M1-engined 745i – BMW Group SA Chronicles (Ep 3)

How BMW’s SA race cars were born – BMW Group SA Chronicles (Ep 2)

Celebrating 50 years of BMW in SA – BMW Group SA Chronicles (Ep 1)

This year, Cars.co.za’s Hannes Oosthuizen was part of the exterior judging team (he judged cars’ interiors during the 2023 event). See also: Highlights from BMW Concours d’Elegance 2023

“Though there were fewer cars, the quality of the entrants was certainly of an extremely high standard,” Oosthuizen said.

“We used a lot of earbuds to find dirt that a casual, or even a keen observer, would not have been able to spot. I was also particularly impressed with the originality of the top-scoring cars – the two E36 M3s looked pretty much brand new!”

Riaan Writes’ 1995 E36 325i Convertible took the trophy in the Show and Shine category with a total of 94 points. He even had the car’s original hard-top on display.

Andre Alleman’s 1988 E30 325i Shadowline emerged victorious in the D’Elegance category with a score of 122.5 points.

Order a limited-edition 1/18 scale model of the 333i at SentiMETAL

Order a A2 or A3 print of a 325iS, 333i, or other unique-to-SA BMWs

In the hotly-contested D’Etat category, only one point separated the winner from the runner-up. In second was Yaseen Cassim’s stunning E36 M3 (126 points) with the trophy going to Dhiresh Dewnaryan’s beautifully prepped 2012 E92 M3.

In the D’Honneur Preserved category the silverware went to Preenie Pillay for his stunningly original (and mint) E30 325is. It is rare to see an original Evo 2 Gusheshe with its black chin spoiler.

The final big trophy (in the D’Honneur Restored category) went to the ’89 E30 318 Coupe belonging to Bilaal Mia.

Dewnaryan’s E92 M3 also took the Best M Car award, and Pillay’s E30 325is deservedly received the Best 325is trophy. The Best 5 Series award went to the rare red E60 M5 owned by Guy Patron.

Search for a classic BMW model on Cars.co.za

Find exclusive car-themed merchandise at the SentiMETAL Shop

BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé (2024) Price & Specs

The facelifted BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé will again be offered exclusively in M Sport guise in South Africa. Here are the derivatives available and what they cost…

The BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé was handed a facelift in April 2024. Now, ahead of the launch of this updated G26-generation 4-door model in South Africa, we’ve found local pricing.

In Mzansi, the line-up again kicks off with the 420i Gran Coupé and 420d Gran Coupé, which still come standard in M Sport guise. Interestingly, however, there’s no sign of the updated 6-cylinder M440i xDrive Gran Coupé (nor the revised fully electric i4) yet.

According to BMW SA’s online configurator, the 420i Gran Coupé M Sport is priced from R1 012 067, representing a R63 504 increase over the pre-facelift version. Meanwhile, the refreshed 420d Gran Coupé M Sport now starts at R1 059 044, a R63 671 hike over the outgoing iteration.

However, it’s worth keeping in mind the configurator forces the selection of the otherwise-optional Parking Assist Plus, with this R13 000 included in the figures above. For the record, the website says “it is currently not possible to remove” this option from the configuration “due to product updates”.

As a reminder, the 420i employs a turbocharged 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine that sends an unchanged 135 kW and 300 Nm to the rear axle via an 8-speed automatic transmission. The 0-100 kph time is listed as 7.9 seconds, with the claimed combined fuel economy coming in at 6.5 L/1 00km.

The 420d, meanwhile, uses a 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel motor delivering 140 kW and 400 Nm to the rear wheels (also through an 8-speed auto). From what we can tell, the updated version of this oil-burning powertrain gains a 48V mild-hybrid system capable of temporarily contributing 8 kW. Expect a 0-100 kph time of around 7.3 seconds and a consumption of approximately 5.0 L/100 km.

Options for the facelifted BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé in South Africa include 20-inch BMW Individual alloy wheels (for R10 000 to replace the standard 19-inch items), the M Sport Package Pro (R30 000), the M Carbon exterior package (R35 000) and the Deluxe Package (adding items like a sunroof, keyless entry, electrically adjustable front seats and a Harman Kardon surround-sound system, for an additional R60 000).

Extras such as adaptive M suspension (R10 000), M Sport brakes (R14 000), M Sport seats (R19 000), adaptive LED headlights (R33 000), BMW Live Cockpit Professional (R27 000) and Driving Assist Professional (R27 000) are also available.

The 4 Series Gran Coupé facelift includes new exterior paint colours, redesigned alloy wheels and subtle styling revisions up front (chiefly to the LED headlamps and kidney grille). Round back, the exhaust tailpipe diameters have grown 10 mm to 100 mm, while the cabin gains an upgraded BMW iDrive system, a new steering-wheel design, standard ambient lighting and revised adjustment controls for the air vents.

How much does the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé cost in SA?

BMW 420i Gran Coupé M Sport – R1 012 067

BMW 420d Gran Coupé M Sport – R1 059 044

The prices above include BMW’s 2-year/unlimited kilometre warranty and a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan (as well as the R13 000 Parking Assist Plus option, selection of which the local configurator currently forces).

BMW M3 Competition Sedan (2024) Price & Specs

Wondering what the latest (390 kW) version of the G80-generation BMW M3 Competition Sedan will cost you in South Africa? Well, we have local pricing…

Revealed as recently as May 2024, the updated version of the G80-generation BMW M3 Competition Sedan generates an increased output of 390 kW. While the new M3 Touring has been hogging the headlines in South Africa, we’ve now come across local pricing for the high-performance saloon.

According to BMW SA’s online configurator, the latest M3 Competition Sedan is priced from R2 208 002 (including VAT and CO2 emissions tax) in Mzansi. For the record, that means the sedan costs R20 840 less than the G81-generation estate, which currently kicks off at R2 228 842.

Interestingly, in either case, the local configurator forces the selection of the otherwise-optional M Alcantara steering wheel, which is priced at R10 000. We’ve included that number in the figures above since the website says “it is currently not possible to remove the desired option” due to “product updates”.

As a reminder, the M3 Competition Sedan employs the same twin-turbo 3.0-litre straight-6 petrol engine as its Touring sibling, which sends 390 kW (up from 375 kW) and 650 Nm to all 4 wheels. That peak torque figure is now available across a wider rev range, from 2 750 r/min through to 5 730 r/min.

Endowed with an 8-speed automatic transmission as standard, the super-saloon sees off the 0-100 kph sprint in a claimed 3.5 seconds, making it a tenth quicker to the mark than the estate. In South Africa, the M Driver’s Package is included as standard, which sees the top speed pegged at 290 kph (interestingly, some 10 kph higher than that of the Touring).

This update includes a revised LED headlamp design, while the model badge on the bootlid is now accented by a silver-hued surround. The Munich-based automaker has also applied the latest BMW Operating System 8.5 software to the curved display, with the latter comprising a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch infotainment screen.

Available extras in South Africa include various exterior paint colours (culminating in BMW Individual hues for R69 000), new upholstery options (up to R42 000), the M Carbon exterior package (R90 000), M Carbon ceramic brakes (R190 000), M carbon bucket seats (R95 000), Driving Assist Professional (R23 800), acoustic glazing (R9 000), front-seat ventilation (R17 000) and steering-wheel heating (R5 000).

How much does the BMW M3 Competition cost in SA?

BMW M3 Competition Sedan M xDrive – R2 208 002

BMW M3 Competition Touring M xDrive – R2 228 842

The prices above include BMW’s 2-year/unlimited kilometre warranty and a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan (as well as the M Alcantara steering wheel, a R10 000 option forced by the configurator).

Mercedes-AMG C63 Video Review – Is 4 cylinders enough to replace the V8?

Jacob Moshokoa gives us his impression of the latest AMG sedan. Does it miss the mark, or is it just the inevitable evolution of Mercedes-AMG?

The W204 Mercedes C63 AMG has become something of a living legend, a modern classic. Back in 2008, Mercedes-AMG made the brave move to stick its largest V8 into the smallest sedan, and the result was something quite special.

Fast forward to 2024 and the world is quite a different place. The European government reckons there is a replacement for displacement and its called electricity. And so the very latest C63 is a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged plug-in hybrid. But it is a massively potent machine, over 500 kW and over 1000 Nm of torque, which makes this car a bit of a weapon.

We’ve tested the new hybrid C63 and it recorded a 3.29 second run to 100 kph, so yes, it is fast, but there’s something missing in terms of character. Watch Jacob Moshokoa try figure out if four cylinders is enough to replace the iconic and soulful V8.

Want to buy a new or used Mercedes-Benz? Browse vehicles for sale

Read the latest Mercedes-Benz news

It’s official: Renault finally confirms new half-tonne bakkie

Renault has announced a fresh investment in its Córdoba plant in Argentina, finally confirming it will produce a new half-tonne bakkie based on the Niagara concept…

It’s finally official: Renault has announced a fresh investment in its Santa Isabel, Córdoba factory in Argentina, confirming that it will indeed produce a new half-tonne bakkie based on the Niagara concept.

Expected to replace the long-in-the-tooth Duster-based Oroch that didn’t ever make it to South Africa, the upcoming bakkie will likewise employ a unibody rather than ladder-frame configuration, riding on a new Renault Group modular platform. It’s expected to hit the market in Latin America in 2026.

Renault Niagara Concept — *The Niagara concept was revealed in October 2023.*

According to translated press material released in the Latin American country, the Boulogne-Billancourt-based firm says its new half-tonne pick-up “will initially be manufactured only in Argentina and will have a strong export profile”.

Renault has yet to announce whether the new bakkie will also be built in right-hand-drive form (remember, countries in that part of the world use left-hand-drive models). However, as Cars.co.za reported in May 2024, the French automaker has already applied to trademark the “Niagara” badge in South Africa, so there’s at least some hope for an eventual local introduction.

*The Santa Isabel factory that will produce the new half-tonne bakkie.*

This investment announcement also includes confirmation from Renault that the design of the new half-tonne bakkie “will be based on the Niagara concept”. For the record, that show vehicle featured a double-cab body style.

“On the road to 70 years of our beloved Santa Isabel factory, the launch of this half-tonne pick-up truck manufactured exclusively in Argentina marks a new chapter in our rich industrial history in our country,” said Pablo Sibilla, President and CEO of Renault Argentina.

“With an export profile that will reach between 65% and 70% of production, we reaffirm the capacity and talent of the Argentine industry, consolidating it as a strategic pillar in our global operation,” Sibilla said. Luiz Pedrucci, CEO of Renault Latin America, separately told Motor1.com that “my goal is to export it to other continents”, adding that he “would like to reach an annual volume of 100 000 units”.

As we’ve previously reported, a Nissan-badged version of the Niagara production model – courtesy of the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance – is also very much on the cards. This model could, in theory at least, replace the NP200 half-tonner that went out of production at Rosslyn in March 2024.

Hyundai Exter (2024) Launch Review

The Indian-built Hyundai’s Exter has arrived in South Africa. Not only is it the Korean brand’s most affordable crossover model – it comes backed with a comprehensive warranty and service plan. We take the newcomer for a drive in the Western Cape.

What’s on offer?

The Hyundai Exter shares its platform with the Grand i10 hatchback and sedan. Given its small footprint and starting price of R270k (September 2024), it falls into the budget crossover category. The Exter’s rivals include the Suzuki Ignis, Renault Kiger, Nissan Magnite, Suzuki Fronx, and Toyota Starlet Cross.

See how the competition stacks up with our Comparison Tool

The South African market will be getting 5 derivatives, which will be available in either 5-speed manual or 5-speed automated manual (AMT) guise. There are 3 trim grades: Premium, Executive, and Elite.

Read detailed specifications and pricing for the Hyundai Exter

The Exter is powered by a naturally aspirated 1.2-litre 4-cylinder petrol that produces 61 kW and 114 Nm. It’s a pint-sized crossover, so it’s no surprise that the claimed average consumption is only 5.7 L/100 km.

Spec-wise, the Exter punches well above its weight. Even though the entry-level Exter costs under R300k at launch, its standard features list covers more than the basics. Here are some highlights of the 1.2 Premium derivative: it features a 4.2-inch digital instrument cluster, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatible 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, rear parking sensors, as well as auto headlights.

During the launch event, we test-drove the Exter 1.2 Executive MT, which is the manual gearbox-equipped mid-range variant. The Executive trim includes (rather pretty) 15-inch alloy wheels, roof rails, mudguards, cruise control, a reverse-view camera and a (tilt-adjustable) leather-trimmed steering wheel.

We were delighted to see that Hyundai fitted a faster-charging USB-C port alongside a standard USB-A port for the front occupants. Yes, there are some cheap-feeling plastics in the cabin, but the common touchpoints feel quite substantial. Again, you’ve got to manage expectations; this is a budget vehicle!

Brands tend to keep budget-car prices low by omitting high-end safety features from such models, but in the case of the Exter, every derivative features 6 airbags. Higher-trim AMT derivatives have stability control, which – in our opinion – is a must-have. Tyre-pressure sensors are standard across the range.

What’s the Hyundai Exter like to drive?

During the launch, we drove on the national highway and then turned onto the coastal road to Hermanus. While the 1.2-litre 4-cylinder’s outputs may seem meagre in the era of turbocharging, the Exter has a low kerb weight (940 kg), which means the small crossover doesn’t require much grunt to get up to speed…

The 5-speed ‘box has a pleasingly light and direct action, while the clutch pedal is effortless to modulate. With this powertrain, the Exter is quite capable of pressing on in the cut and thrust of urban traffic.

The driver’s seat affords an excellent vantage out of the cabin and the multifunction ‘wheel is ultra-light to twirl, but the Exter’s steering responds to inputs promptly and directly. Suffice it to say, manoeuvring into (and out of) tight parking spaces will be far easier when you’re behind the tiller of one of these.

Given that the Exter was developed for the Indian market (where the average speed is lower than in SA – you rarely drive at triple-digit speeds on the Subcontinent), we expected the Hyundai’s performance to drop off when travelling on the highway. And sure enough, when we drove at the national limit (120 kph), we noticed that the test unit’s rev counter reading was approaching a rather heady 4 000 rpm.

Apart from the fact that the 1.2-litre 4-pot is quite vocal (even a bit buzzy) at those engine speeds, the Exter’s short gearing will hamper fuel economy somewhat when you’re touring. It’s a trait of most Indian-built A- and B-segment cars, but bear in mind that the Exter is city runabout first and foremost; besides, if you are in a hurry, you can rev the motor out – it may sound strained, but will deliver a dash of speed.

Speaking of fuel economy, we completed the test route with 2 occupants aboard and, after I drove to the driver-change location in a purposely conservative manner and my co-driver opted for a more spirited approach, we achieved near-identical fuel consumption figures: 6.0- and 6.2 L/100 km – impressive!

One of the biggest selling points of the Exter is its suitability for driving on dirt roads (or its “gravel-travel capability”, if you like). Thanks to its plump tyres and 185 mm of ground clearance, the plucky Korean looks ready to venture down a dirt track. We’ll be sure to test this when the unit makes its way to us.

How much does the Exter cost in South Africa?

The new Exter ships standard with a 3-year/45 000 km service plan and Hyundai’s 7-year/200 000 km manufacturers’ warranty.

Hyundai Exter 1.2 Premium MT	R269 900
Hyundai Exter 1.2 Premium AMT	R294 900
Hyundai Exter 1.2 Executive MT	R289 900
Hyundai Exter 1.2 Executive AMT	R314 900
Hyundai Exter 1.2 Elite AMT	R334 900

Summary

With rising new-car prices (in conjunction with the escalating cost of living) pushing new-car ownership out of reach of so many consumers, it’s refreshing to find a stylish, well-packaged and safety feature-rich crossover positioned under R300 000. In the race for passenger segment dominance, we can see Hyundai South Africa making serious inroads into territory previously held by Suzuki and Volkswagen.

Should you consider buying an Exter? Yes, certainly. At the price, there’s very little to fault with this stylish entry-level crossover. Every minor drawback we discovered during our test drive of the Exter is outweighed by the Hyundai’s keen price and point ownership proposition (including its long warranty). We look forward to getting to know the model better – and trying out the automated manual version.

Want to purchase a new or used Hyundai? Browse stock now

Huge Fuel Price Cut for October 2024?

Unaudited mid-month fuel price data indicates that significant fuel price cuts could materialise for October 2024! See the fuel price forecast below!

There’s good news on the horizon for South African motorists as mid-month fuel price data is showing signs of significant fuel price cuts on the cards for October 2024!

If this price cut is realised, October will be the fifth consecutive month of cuts, bringing further relief to consumers.

According to the data published on the Central Energy Fund (CEF) website, Petrol 95 ULP is showing potential for a R1.25 p/l decrease while the price of Petrol 93 ULP could be slashed by R1.16 p/l.

Diesel price cuts are also likely, with both 0.05% and 0.005% grades of diesel showing potential for a R1.11 decrease. Illuminating Paraffin might be R1.05 p/l cheaper too come October 2024.

A stronger Rand combined with lower international fuel prices are the main contributing factors with just under 2 weeks of the month remaining, the adjustments will change.

In addition to fuel price cuts, consumers can also expect interest rates to be cut by 25 basis points this month as inflation has reached its lowest point since 2021 at 4.9%.

Fuel Price Forecast for October 2024

Fuel Type	Sept’ 24 Inland	Sept’ 24 Coast	Oct’ 24 Inland*	Oct’ 24 Coast*
Petrol Unleaded 93	R21.79	R21.00	R20.63	R19.84
Petrol Unleaded 95	R22.19	R21.40	R20.94	R20.15
Diesel 0.05%	R19.59	R18.80	R18.48	R17.69
Diesel 0.005%	R19.69	R18.93	R18.58	R17.82

*October 2024 figures are forecast figures and not official

Hyundai Exter (2024) Price & Specs

The new Hyundai Exter has launched in South Africa as the South Korean brand’s most affordable crossover, slotting in below the Venue. Here’s a look at what it costs…

The new Hyundai Exter has officially hit the market in South Africa, positioned as the South Korean firm’s smallest and most affordable crossover.

Just as our information suggested well ahead of the launch, the local Exter range comprises 5 derivatives, 3 of which are furthermore offered in dual-tone form (effectively adding an optional black roof). Starting at R269 900 and running through to R334 900, the Exter slots in below the Venue, which currently has pricing bookends of R309 900 and R499 900 (after a handy price cut).

*The new Exter slots in below the Venue.*

In Mzansi, the Indian-built Exter is offered in a trio of grades: entry-level Premium, mid-tier Executive and top-spec Elite. All variants employ the automaker’s naturally aspirated 1.2-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine, which is familiar from the Grand i10, i20 hatchback and aforementioned Venue.

This “Kappa” motor delivers 61 kW and 114 Nm to the front axle. Premium and Executive derivatives are available with either a 5-speed manual gearbox or a 5-speed automated manual transmission (AMT), while the flagship Elite variant is offered exclusively with the latter cog-swapper. The manual version has a claimed fuel economy of 5.7 L/100 km, while the AMT’s listed figure is 5.9 L/100 km.

Hyundai Exter — *Boxy, off-road-inspired styling.*

The base Exter 1.2 Premium MT (R269 900) ships standard with features such as manual air conditioning, a 4.2-inch digital instrument cluster, an 8.0-inch infotainment display, tyre-pressure monitoring, rear parking sensors, ISOfix child-seat anchors, automatic headlamps, 15-inch steel wheels (with plastic covers), cloth seats and a polyurethane steering wheel. A full complement of 6 airbags is standard, too.

Meanwhile, the Exter 1.2 Premium AMT (R294 900) furthermore scores electronic stability control, hill-assist control and an electric folding function for the side mirrors, in addition to the self-shifting transmission, of course.

Next come the Exter 1.2 Executive MT for R289 900 and the Exter 1.2 Executive AMT for R314 900, which gain features such as 15-inch alloy wheels, roof rails, mud guards, cruise control, a reverse-view camera, leather trim for the steering wheel and tilt adjustment for the steering column.

Finally, the top-spec Exter 1.2 Elite AMT is priced at R334 900 and upgrades to items such as automatic air conditioning, bi-function projection headlamps, a powered sunroof and cloth-and-vinyl upholstery. Paint colours in South Africa include Titan Grey, Shadow Grey, Fiery Red, Moonlight Blue, Cosmic Blue, Atlas White and Ranger Khaki, with the final 3 hues also available in conjunction with a black roof (though only on Executive and Elite variants).

Hyundai Exter sunroof — *The Elite derivative features a sunroof as standard.*

Revealed in May 2023, the Exter employs the same platform that underpins the Grand i10 hatchback and sedan twins, and is likewise produced in India at Hyundai’s plant in Sriperumbudur near Chennai. The boxy little crossover measures 3 815 mm long (the same length as the Grand i10 hatch), with a wheelbase of 2 450 mm, a width of 1 710 mm, a height of 1 631 mm (including roof rails) and a ground clearance of 185 mm.

For the record, that makes it around 180 mm shorter from nose to tail than the likes of the Venue, Nissan Magnite and Renault Kiger (and 166 mm stubbier than the CC21-generation Citroën C3, too), but about 115 mm longer than the diminutive Suzuki Ignis. The Exter’s luggage capacity comes in at a claimed 290 litres.

The Exter measures just 3 815 mm long.

We first reported that the Exter was coming to South Africa back in May 2024, receiving confirmation from Hyundai Automotive SA after we discovered the company’s Seoul head office had applied to register the “Exter” badge in South Africa as early as October 2022. The local registration of this trademark took effect in December 2023.

*This story was originally published on 5 September 2024 as a pricing scoop. Additional information has since been added.

How much does the new Hyundai Exter cost in South Africa?

Hyundai Exter 1.2 Premium MT – R269 900

Hyundai Exter 1.2 Premium AMT – R294 900

Hyundai Exter 1.2 Executive MT – R289 900

Hyundai Exter 1.2 Executive AMT – R314 900

Hyundai Exter 1.2 Elite AMT – R334 900

The new Exter ships standard with a 3-year/45 000 km service plan and Hyundai’s 7-year/200 000 km manufacturers’ warranty.

New SA-built Ford Ranger PHEV: peak outputs revealed

Key figures for the new Ford Ranger PHEV – a plug-in bakkie to be produced at the Silverton plant in SA – have been revealed. Meet the torquiest Ranger yet…

Unveiled a year ago, the Ford Ranger PHEV has finally made its show debut at the IAA Transportation event in Germany, with the Blue Oval brand also using the occasion to release key information (including power and torque figures) for this plug-in hybrid bakkie.

As a reminder, the Ranger PHEV will be built at the Silverton assembly plant in South Africa (the only plant worldwide handed this task) following a R5.2-billion investment announced in November 2023. Though Ford SA has yet to officially confirm this electrified derivative for our market, it seems only a matter of time.

According to the Dearborn-based automaker, the new plug-in hybrid electric double-cab bakkie is a “no-compromise new model” that offers “full Ranger towing, payload and off-road performance, with electric-only driving ability”.

The PHEV powertrain combines Ford’s turbocharged 2.3-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine and 10‑speed automatic transmission with a 75 kW electric motor and an 11.8 kWh (usable capacity) battery pack. Peak system outputs stand at 205 kW and 690 Nm, with this torque figure described as the “highest of any production Ranger ever” (eclipsing even the high-performance Raptor’s 583 Nm).

The electric motor is integrated into the transmission bellhousing, while the battery takes “less than 4 hours to charge using a single-phase 16-amp charger”, according to Ford. Interestingly, the company has still not provided a confirmed single-charge electric-only range, saying only that it has a target of “over 45 km”.

Ford adds that buyers can expect a payload of “up to 1 tonne” and a braked towing capacity of 3 500 kg. The Ranger PHEV employs a new “e-4WD” system along with a dual-range transfer box and rear differential lock. The traction battery, meanwhile, is packaged between “specially engineered” frame rails.

The plug-in hybrid Ranger also features something Ford calls “Pro Power Onboard”, which enables owners to power tools and appliances on a worksite or remote campsite by plugging them into power outlets in both the cargo bed and the cabin.

In Europe, the Ranger PHEV will be offered in XLT and Wildtrak form, along with the “PHEV-exclusive” Stormtrak launch edition pictured here. The latter is set apart by model-specific design features, such as 18-inch alloy wheels, a honeycomb grille, fender vents and a decal kit, along with Matrix LED headlamps and a 360-degree camera system.

Best Used Budget Hatchbacks in South Africa (2024-2015)

If you are looking to buy one of the best used budget hatchbacks in South Africa right now, what should you buy? #CarsAwards judge, Gero Lilleike explores the past Budget Car category winners and examines what’s on offer in the used car market. Take a look!

Best Used Budget Hatchbacks in South Africa (2024-2015)

Suzuki Baleno 1.5 GLX (2023/24)

Toyota Starlet 1.4 XR (2020/21)

Suzuki Swift 1.2 GLX (2019/20) and Suzuki Swift 1.2 GL (2018/2019)

Suzuki Ignis 1.2 GL (2017/18)

Alternatives to consider

Suzuki Celerio 1.2 GL (2016/17)

Renault Sandero Expression (2015/2016)

Highlights from BMW Concours d’Elegance 2024

BMW owners and enthusiasts flocked to Mall of Africa last month to celebrate the best local examples of the Munich-based brand’s modern-classic models at the BMW Car Club Gauteng Concours d’Elegance 2024.

Watch our 50 years of BMW SA video series!

BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé (2024) Price & Specs

The facelifted BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé will again be offered exclusively in M Sport guise in South Africa. Here are the derivatives available and what they cost…

How much does the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé cost in SA?

Related content

BMW M3 Competition Sedan (2024) Price & Specs

Wondering what the latest (390 kW) version of the G80-generation BMW M3 Competition Sedan will cost you in South Africa? Well, we have local pricing…

How much does the BMW M3 Competition cost in SA?

Related content

Mercedes-AMG C63 Video Review – Is 4 cylinders enough to replace the V8?

Jacob Moshokoa gives us his impression of the latest AMG sedan. Does it miss the mark, or is it just the inevitable evolution of Mercedes-AMG?

It’s official: Renault finally confirms new half-tonne bakkie

Renault has announced a fresh investment in its Córdoba plant in Argentina, finally confirming it will produce a new half-tonne bakkie based on the Niagara concept…

Related content

Hyundai Exter (2024) Launch Review

The Indian-built Hyundai’s Exter has arrived in South Africa. Not only is it the Korean brand’s most affordable crossover model – it comes backed with a comprehensive warranty and service plan. We take the newcomer for a drive in the Western Cape.

What’s on offer?

What’s the Hyundai Exter like to drive?

How much does the Exter cost in South Africa?

Summary

Huge Fuel Price Cut for October 2024?

Fuel Price Forecast for October 2024

Related Content

Hyundai Exter (2024) Price & Specs

The new Hyundai Exter has launched in South Africa as the South Korean brand’s most affordable crossover, slotting in below the Venue. Here’s a look at what it costs…

How much does the new Hyundai Exter cost in South Africa?

Related content

New SA-built Ford Ranger PHEV: peak outputs revealed

Key figures for the new Ford Ranger PHEV – a plug-in bakkie to be produced at the Silverton plant in SA – have been revealed. Meet the torquiest Ranger yet…

Related content