The Suzuki Swift is a hugely successful hatchback in South Africa but with the recent introduction of an all-new Swift, we were interested to find out exactly how much the new Swift differs from the previous Swift. Jacob Moshokoa investigates… Watch the video!
The previous version of the Suzuki Swift became a top seller in the local market, challenging the Polo Vivo for the title of best-selling hatchback in the country. The new Swift aims to build on that success, but are the engine and design changes likely to yield better sales and success, or has Suzuki gone down the wrong path?
Jacob Moshokoa drives both the new and old Swift back-to-back to give his verdict on whether this new Suzuki will be a hit or not.
Let us know in the comments below what your thoughts are on the new Suzuki Swift.
Chinese brand GAC Motor, which entered the South African market in mid-2024 and expanded its line-up to 2 models with the launch of the Emkoo model, has significantly reduced the prices of its family car’s derivatives – by R80k and R100k respectively!
To recap, GAC is the abbreviation for Guangzhou Automobile Group Motor Company – the 5th-largest automaker in China. Its products are distributed in South Africa by the Portuguese-based Salvador Caetano holding company and GAC Motor South Africa (SA) launched the GS3 Emzoom in July 2024, followed by the larger Emkoo in September. More model introductions are scheduled for 2025.
GAC Motor SA has begun the new year by announcing “a strategic price reduction” for the 2 models. It attributes the price drop to “a better forex rate through the end of 2024”, as well as “scaled global cost reduction initiatives, allowing (the Bryanston-based importer) to pass the benefits… to the consumer.”
GAC Motor SA, which is said to be increasing its dealerships and service centres to 40 outlets, further says the adjustment is not “temporary sales support or promotional tactics”, but “a response to market conditions” and underlines the firm’s “transparency in pricing and commitment to fair… practices”.
As opposed to the GS3 Emzoom – a small crossover with boutique appeal – the larger Emkoo is a more soberly styled medium SUV, but there’s little chance that one could mistake it for anything but a GAC!
By the South African family-car segment’s historically conservative standards, the GAC Emkoo’s exterior design is arguably at the more expressive end of the spectrum (think of the Jetour Dashing, Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage), as opposed to more buttoned-up offerings (such as the new Volkswagen Tiguan and Haval H6), with the Chery Tiggo 7- and 8 Pro/Pro Max sitting somewhere in the middle.
Still, the GAC Emkoo is distinguished by its stylised grille design (with 12 bars arranged in a V shape, decorated with titanium-tungsten alloy strips), ornate LED headlamps and hidden electric door handles.
The newcomer’s rear end, in turn, features “lightsabre-inspired” X-pattern LED taillights – GAC Motor says that they include a music-sync function! – plus a Mecha-style rear bumper and tailgate spoiler.
The GAC Emkoo is based on the Chinese marque’s MegaStar platform: 4 680 mm long, 1 901 mm wide and 1 670 mm tall. Its suspension comprises MacPherson struts up front, with a multi-link arrangement at the rear and GAC Motor claims the model, which has a 2 750-mm wheelbase, offers 1 059 mm of legroom for front- and 990 mm for aft occupants.
Power comes courtesy of a 130 kW/270 Nm 1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbopetrol that is mated with a 7-speed dual-clutch (wet-type) automatic transmission and the model is said to consume an average of 6.4 L/100 km (although note that that is an NEDC figure and not based on the more realistic WLTP cycle).
The GAC Emkoo is offered in Executive and Executive Plus guises and, as opposed the GS3 Emzoom, there is a relatively small difference in the respective derivatives’ features lists.
For a start, all variants come equipped with auto headlamps (with high-beam assist) and -wipers, auto-folding and heated side mirrors, panoramic sunroof with sunshade, keyless entry/start, a multifunction steering wheel (4-way adjustable), a 6-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat (with lumbar support), dual-zone climate control, adaptive cruise control with integrated cruise assist (which works in conjunction with traffic jam assist and -sign recognition), imitation leather trim and contrast stitching.
The interior has a largely conventional layout, but features a few tasteful – some might say “fashion forward” – design touches, such as the circular (and metallic) elements on the door- and floating centre console – they are complemented by the fascia-mounted centre ventilation, well, “cylinder”. And, for the obligatory touch of bling, the GAC Emkoo’s shift-by-wire transmission lever is festooned with a crystal!
Tech-wise, the front of the GAC Emkoo’s cabin features a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment (compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), a surround-view camera system, a wireless charging pad, as well as Type A and -C USB ports for streaming or recharging.
Rear occupants benefit from a dedicated ventilation outlet, a flat rear-seat passage (GAC Motor says), as well as reclining seatbacks. The model’s claimed load-bay capacity is 420 litres, but that can be increased notably if you fold the standard 60/40-split seatback down.
In terms of safety, all variants have front-, side- and curtain airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability- and hill-descent control, autonomous emergency braking, forward-collision warning, lane-keep assist and -departure warning, ISOfix anchor points, tyre pressure monitors and rear parking sensors.
Whereas the 1.5T Executive is fitted with 18-inch alloys, the 1.5T Executive Plus rides on 19-inch wheels. It additionally features a power tailgate, both front seats are electrically adjustable, heated and ventilated (with memory function for the driver), ambient interior lighting, a head-up display, blind-spot detection and lane-change assist, rear cross-traffic alert and -collision warning, as well as a self-park function.
GAC Motor South Africa said in a statement (January 2025) that it “is sensitive to (its) valued customers who have purchased a GAC Motor model in 2024 and in the interests of a fair and equitable relationship, (the company) invites these customers to contact the distributor through its website or contact numbers to discuss any potential concerns regarding the price reduction and how they will be accommodated.”
Prices include a 5-year/150 000 km manufacturer’s warranty, as well as an impressively long (distance-wise) 5-year/100 000 km service plan.
Chinese automotive brandGAC Motor, which entered the South African new-vehicle market in 2024, has significantly lowered the asking prices of its models (in January 2025), including those of the arrestingly styled GS3 Emzoom compact family car.
GAC Motor, a subsidiary of GAC Group, was founded in 2008. The fledgling brand signed a strategic agreement with the Salvador Caetano Group to handle its distribution and retail operations in Mzansi and its first offering on local soil, the GS3 Emzoom, competes in the small-crossover segment of the market.
GAC Motor South Africa (SA), which launched the GS3 Emzoom in July 2024, followed by its Emkoo family car sibling in September 2024, has now announced “a strategic price reduction” for the models. It attributes the price drop to “a better forex rate through the end of 2024”, as well as “scaled global cost reduction initiatives, allowing (the Bryanston-based importer) to pass the benefits… to the consumer.”
GAC Motor SA, which is said to be increasing its dealerships and service centres to 40 outlets, further says the adjustment is not “temporary sales support or promotional tactics”, but “a response to market conditions” and underlines the firm’s “transparency in pricing and commitment to fair… practices”.
Like its fellow Chinese-made small crossovers – the Omoda C5, Jaecoo J7 and BAIC X55 Beijing – the GS2 Emzoom is distinguished by strikingly futuristic styling cues, including sharp lines, hidden door handles, ornate taillights and – on the Sports Pack-equipped 1.5T R-Style – even a sportscar-inspired rear diffuser with a pair of centrally positioned exhaust ends, along with a sizeable panoramic sunroof.
The GAC GS3 Emzoom’s “flying-mecha” front-end design features LED headlights with LED DRLs, while a double waistline element accentuates the model’s flanks. The 3D-effect tail-light clusters, which are said to incorporate 66 LEDs, are complemented by the sporty rear wing; 18-inch alloys are standard.
The GAC GS3 Emzoom is 4 410 mm long, 1 850 mm wide and stands 1 600 mm tall; it rides on McPherson front and a torsion-beam rear suspension, and GAC Motor claims the small crossover’s load bay can hold 341 litres (and up to 1 271 litres when the rear seats are folded down).
With its stylish, upmarket and tech-laden cabin, the GAC GS3 Emzoom seems to straddle the small family car and boutique crossover segments; it has as many as 21 storage compartments (helped by its floating centre console design, no doubt) and a host of connectivity options via its 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which supports wired Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay.
Even the entry-level GS3 Emzoom 1.5T Comfort comes equipped with electrically folding side mirrors, keyless entry/start, a multifunction ‘wheel, cruise- and dual-zone climate control, Type-A front USB ports, one-touch anti-pinch electric windows, a reverse-view camera and 3 drive modes (Eco, Comfort and Sport).
But whereas the 1.5T Comfort has fabric and synthetic leather upholstery and a 3.5-inch driver info display in its instrument cluster, the 1.5T Executive has leather trim on the ‘wheel and seats, a 7-inch LCD digital instrument cluster, adaptive cruise control, 2nd-row ventilation outlets and rear reading lights.
As expected, the range-topping 1.5T R-Style has the most comprehensive spec, which includes rain-sensing wipers, 6-way power adjustment for the driver’s seat, a crystal-detailed transmission lever, a wireless charging pad, a surround-view camera system, Type-C front USB ports, a rear centre armrest and -headrest, ambient cabin lighting, as well as an electrically operated tailgate.
In terms of standard safety equipment, all variants come fitted with dual-front airbags, ABS with EBD, an electronic stability programme, hill-hold control, an electronic parking brake, tyre pressure monitors and ISOfix child-seat safety anchors.
However, you have to upgrade to the 1.5T Executive to benefit from additional safety items (and ADAS systems) such as dual front side airbags, automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, traffic-sign recognition, intelligent speed-limit control and lane departure warning.
On top of the 1.5T Executive’s safety spec, the 1.5T R-Line range-topper further adds curtain airbags, hill descent control and high-beam assist.
All GAC GS3 Emzoom derivatives are powered by a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbopetrol engine that produces 130 kW/270 Nm and is mated with a 7-speed (wet) dual-clutch automatic transmission.
The Chinese manufacturer claims GS3 Emzoom variants (all of which are equipped with electric power steering) can accelerate from zero to 100 kph in 8 sec, while consuming an average of 6.2 litres of fuel per 100 km on the combined cycle.
Warranty & Service plan
The GS3 Emzoom was the first of 3 GAC models (the 2nd being the Emkoo family car, with the Aion Y electric crossover also in the pipeline) to be launched in South Africa. All variants come with a 5-year/150 000 km warranty and a 5-year/60 000 km service plan, with service intervals every 15 000 km.
GAC Motor South Africa said in a statement (January 2025) that it “is sensitive to (its) valued customers who have purchased a GAC Motor model in 2024 and in the interests of a fair and equitable relationship, (the company) invites these customers to contact the distributor through its website or contact numbers to discuss any potential concerns regarding the price reduction and how they will be accommodated.”
The thought of driving a new car is enticing, but new cars aren’t cheap and buyers need to exercise financial awareness before committing to a new car purchase. There is however great value to be found in the used car market and depending on what car you have your eyes on, opting for a used car will not only solve your need for mobility but often makes more financial sense too. Here are 2 major reasons you should consider buying a used car…
Cars, especially new cars, exert a strange and powerful force on humans. They have the power to cripple our common sense and manipulate our decision-making process. Before you know it, you could be driving your dream car off a showroom floor, forgetting, perhaps just for a moment, that you can’t afford it. Does this sound like you?
New car prices have risen sharply, so much so that many buyers are unable to afford the new car of their choice and are forced to shop down.
For those willing to forego buying a new car, the used car market has much to offer buyers in terms of value but due to the high demand for quality used cars, used car prices have also risen as a result.
Even so, choosing to buy a used car is a sensible choice and here are 2 major reasons why!
Two Major Reasons to Consider Buying a Used Car
1. Affordability
Affordability is the main reason to consider buying a used car, but it’s by no means the only factor. A used car is considerably cheaper than a new car because (in most cases) the brunt of depreciation has already been absorbed by the previous owner.
Here’s a nice example; to buy a brand new, base spec Volkswagen T-Cross 1.0TSi Life costs R362 200, but if you opt to buy a used VW T-Cross, you can jump into a low mileage, 2-3-year-old top-spec T-Cross R-Line for under R300k. That’s a big financial win!
More than this, it will also be cheaper to finance and insure a used car (due to the lower purchase price) and in some cases you may even benefit from the carry-over warranty and maintenance plan.
There is a perception that used cars are of sub-standard quality, and in some cases this might be true, but the reality is that there are thousands of quality used cars on the market and if you take the time to find the right car for you, you can save a lot of money!
Also keep in mind that very often the value of optional extras are not accurately reflected in used car prices, so you may actually get more than you bargained for.
Top Tip: Find a used car that’s 2-3 years old with low mileage for the best value.
2. More Choice
The used car market opens up a wide range of options to the used car buyer. Couldn’t afford that glitzy SUV you’ve always wanted? Well, now you possibly can. Just take your time and shop around…
The fact that used cars are cheaper than new cars gives buyers much more choice and freedom. At Cars.co.za, we have well over 70 000 used vehicles to choose from, anywhere in South Africa.
Our new Used Car Search Tool with “Quick Search” functionality will allow you to find the car you are looking for — fast!
Need advice on what car to buy? We have an experienced and dedicated team who are ready to offer the best car buying advice. Feel free to ask us questions on Facebook or X and we will gladly assist you.
Seemingly a fixture on the endangered species list, the sportscar segment will be several models poorer in 2025. The following 5 models will quietly fall off new-car price lists and depart showrooms this year (if they haven’t done so already…)
Primarily and increasingly, emissions legislation is forcing automotive product strategists to shift their focus towards alternative sources of propulsion, which is anathema to the barrel-chested bark of octane-powered speed machines (yes, the sportscars we know and, most of us, love).
BMW will soon discontinue the Z4 – the GR Supra’s German cousin – so will the Toyota coupe follow in its smouldering tracks?
Secondly, for all the thrills they offer, sportscars are expensive to develop and build. Also, even if they’re more profitable than bread-and-butter models, they only comprise fractions of car companies’ product portfolios, except for exotic brands, such as Ferrari, Lamborghini,McLaren and a few others.
The sad reality is that vehicle production efficiency, and platform- and engine sharing powers profits. Specialised low-volume halo models – known to increase the overall car park’s CO2 figure when government regulations are doubling down on internal combustion engines (ICE) – don’t.
Farewell, fast ones.
Nissan GT-R
The sheer cache of trivia surrounding the R35-gen Nissan Skyline-that-was-no-longer-called-a-Skyline only adds to its myth.
A brainchild of Carlos Ghosn, the former Renault, Nissan and Mitsubishi boss who later fled Japan in a music equipment box, the GT-R was the PlayStation hero with which the initially-messianic CEO wanted to re-establish Nissan’s appeal.
The target? A 300 kph-plus 4-seater capable of a sub-8-minute Nürburgring lap time. The development team duly nailed the brief; “Godzilla” emerged as 1 of the most rapid production sportscars of its era.
It took 7 years to develop before launching in 2007 in Japan (and 2 years later in South Africa). First models developed a modest 353 kW from the hand-built 3.8-litre twin-turbo V6, but Nissan’s never-ending massaging saw the all-wheel-drive road rocket’s output peak at 441 kW in its twilight years.
The R35-gen Nissan GT-R was equipped with active suspension, a twin-clutch transmission and launch control – which is common today, but unheard of in those days – and was the 1st independently-suspended all-wheel-drive vehicle equipped with a weight distribution-aiding transaxle.
With a kerb weight of nearly 1.8 tonnes, it was never a flyweight, yet few sportscars could bend physics or hide their weight with the same voodoo-like vigour as the virtually shape-shifting GT-R on a flying lap.
However, technological advancement hasn’t been kind to the now 18-year-old Nissan, as the very superlatives that once characterised it, turned tame over time and many of its records were exceeded.
Few sportscars before (or since) have captured the world’s imagination like the GT-R, which stole MUCH of its 370Z sibling’s thunder. Beyond its supercar-humbling performance and space-age engineering, the acclaimed Nissan will be immortalised for democratising performance in a way no other car could.
The GT-R sold initially for a mere R1 175 000 (although Nissan SA did command a ludicrous R50k per service at the time, I recall) – yet it could humiliate interlopers costing 3 times as much without breaking as much of a sweat. The world had never seen anything like it – and, probably, never will again.
The GT-R’s demise leaves Nissan once again with a line-up devoid of emotional appeal, even if its claimed EV replacement may – or may not – rewrite some of its predecessor’s admirable achievements.
Not unlike the Nissan GT-R, the Audi R8 – which saw the light in 2006 and arrived in Mzansi in 2007 (the initial variant cost R1 255 000!) was an everyday supercar built by a non-specialist manufacturer.
Revered for its looks, handling, speed and soundtrack, the TT’s big brother was an Audi like no other, but its easily accessible all-paw performance was a double-edged sword – it achieved instant success, but was also deemed less of a blue-blooded driver’s car than some of the more, let’s say, storied supercars.
Capping the R8’s sense of occasion, was that early derivatives utilised the then (B7-gen) RS4 sedan’s sonorous 4.2-litre V8. However, as the R8 shared much of its DNA with the Lamborghini Gallardo, which was succeeded by the Huracan, a free-breathing (naturally aspirated) 5.2-litre V10 was also launched.
The abominable R-Tronic automated manual option was replaced by a dual-clutch version in 2012 and a 2nd-gen R8 emerged in 2015 – henceforth only available with a decaplet of cylinders, which was no bad thing. The ultra-rare GT (rear-wheel-drive only with 456 kW/565 Nm on tap) is surely highly collectable.
Throughout its 17-year tenure, the R8 saw Audi’s love affair with Hollywood blossom (it was favoured by the Tony Stark character in the Iron Man films, remember?), but like the stars it appeared next to, in its last days, the freshness of its future-first and centrespread-friendly countenance had started to wither; rendering it no longer an equal for its contemporaries in terms of ultimate performance or desirability.
As part of Audi’s electrification strategy, the Ingolstadt-based brand is reducing the internal combustion products in its line-up and, unsurprisingly, the 95-unleaded-loving R8 has to go. Whichever way the next model is re-imagined, the death of the R8 puts 1 foot of the VW Group’s V10 petrol engine in the grave.
Soon, the group’s other V10-powered supercar – the Lamborghini Huracan – will also roar off into the sunset; it will be replaced by an as-yet-unnamed model with a twin-turbo hybrid V8 with a rumoured 10 000-rpm redline.
Okay, so 2-seater drop-top sportscars have never been volume sellers, but there’s no doubt the G29- gen Z4, which was launched in 2018 and went on to move between 10 000 and 12 000 units per year across the United States and Europe in the years that followed – was a sales disappointment.
And 1 that BMW saw fit to correct by terminating the range.
One can blame the Covid-19 pandemic, or the fact that across 3 generations the Z4 was never really a proper Porsche Boxster rival (the E89-gen Z4 M Coupe came the closest) and that, in the face of falling profits, the Z4 is one of several less profitable line-ups that BMW simply won’t replace once it’s run out.
BMW discontinuing the Z4 means that it’s equally likely that the hard-top, 5th-gen Toyota Supra with which it is twinned, will probably also disappear from showroom floors at some point during 2025.
Issues at Maserati – admittedly a minuscule cog in the 14-brand Stellentis machine – run far and wide. The 6 500s units the brand sold between January and June 2024 amounted to half of its H1 2023 sales, which weren’t stellar anyway. And that’s despite major advertising campaigns that include the Super Bowl, a David Beckham ambassadorship and a lairy purple Ghibli appearing in Netflix’s The Penguin.
Hoary and unreliable as they were, the Ghibli – and its SUV sibling, the Levante – were Maserati’s biggest sellers, but now they’re gone, without any imminent replacements in the pipeline. This leaves just the Grecale, (mercifully, the new-generation) GranTurismo coupe/cabrio and the MC20 supercar.
Maserati insists its line-up is spot-on and that only its marketing is to blame for the firm’s underwhelming new-car sales figures. By contrast, Ferrari doesn’t spend a cent on traditional advertising.
2024’s poor performance and little prospect of any new products, let alone sportscars until 2027 (other than next year’s electric and highly niche MC20 Folgore) has even led to rumours of Stellantis looking to jettison the Maserati brand. Which, of course, have been denied, but the cat is out of the bag methinks.
Watch Ciro De Siena’s video review of the Maserati Ghibli S
Furthermore, as the remainder of the Stellentis group pushes for EVs, Maserati’s former trademark Ferrari-sourced V8 engine has also been confined to history.
Mirroring Aston Martin’s former management misfortunes, Maserati has forever been the stepchild of the Italian motor industry. Stellantis wanting out is one thing in the current climate; finding a suitable long-term buyer is quite another.
This perfect storm has seen the slow extermination of modern-day sportscars. Yes, the Nissan GT-R and Audi R8 served for over a decade and a half and succumbed to obsolescence, but the rest have been prematurely sacrificed at the altar of resource allocation, evolutionary necessity and economic sensibility.
While Jaguar can be commended for sticking to its 2021 promise to be a full EV brand by next year, one can’t help but imagine a sense of quiet remorse lurking in the shadow of their steadfastness.
With production of all ICE-powered Jaguars – the XF, E-Pace, F-Pace, F-Type – halted, and the electric I-Pace not carrying over into 2025, the company has to rely on any remaining run-out stock at least until mid-year, amidst declining EV sales globally and counterparts re-visiting hybrid technology instead.
Watch Ciro De Siena’s video review of the 2020 Jaguar F-Type R
Porsche is taking similarly a phased approach and has introduced a hybrid version of the 911; while the Macan SUV, as well as the 718 Boxster and Cayman sportscars, will return as EV-only models soon.
Watch Ash Oldfield cane the F-Type SVR around Kyalami
So did the Leaping Cat leap too early?
The 11-year-old F-Type with its boisterous V8 was a sight to behold and sang a song to savour. Occasional cheesy special editions aside, in spirit, it was the closest thing to “an E-Type successor”, although Jaguar arguably knew the model was conceived with the ICE hourglass already upturned.
Porsche 911 Carrera S (2025) Price Confirmed for SA
The freshly-revealed Porsche 911 Carrera S has been confirmed for South Africa. Here’s a pricing and what’s changed for the 992.2 generation.
Following on from the Carrera GTS with its T-Hybrid tech comes the Porsche 911 Carrera S and the good news is it has already been confirmed for our market, with prices starting from R3 037 000. Pricing and plan details can be found at the bottom of this article.
The Carrera S is positioned between the standard 911 Carrera and the aforementioned GTS T-Hybrid and the facelift includes an upgraded powertrain and a longer list of standard equipment. The new Porsche 911 Carrera S is available in coupe and cabriolet derivatives, with all-wheel-drive models following later.
The powertrain and performance is enhanced with the 3.0-litre turbocharged six-cylinder boxer petrol engine now making 353 kW and 530 Nm. That’s an increase of 22 kW, thanks to new turbocharging and optimised cooling systems. As far as performance goes, Porsche says the S coupe is good for a 0-100 kph in just 3.3 seconds and will breach 300 kph. There’s an 8-speed dual-clutch gearbox driving the rear wheels.
Standard Equipment
Porsche claims the Carrera S’ standard loadout has been ‘significantly upgraded’ and the vehicle features 20-inch wheels at the front/21-inch at the rear, sports exhaust system, Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV+), new brake system with red callipers, black leather package, wireless smartphone charger and LED headlights.
Naturally, the options list is extensive, especially if you’re after additional performance and items like ceramic brakes, sports suspension, and rear-wheel steering should be worth forking out for. As a reminder, the folding rear seats are available as a no-cost option. Convenience features worth a second look include the lift system for those pesky speedbumps, HD-Matrix LED headlights and the Sport Chrono package.
How much does the updated Porsche 911 Carrera S cost in South Africa?
The below price includes a 3 year/100 000 km DrivePlan.
Here are the 5 cheapest new cars currently available in South Africa…
We all know that buying a new car can be an expensive exercise but this article highlights the 5 cheapest brand new cars currently available in South Africa.
Yes, you may have to compromise somewhat in terms of quality and features in the low-end of the new car market but if these 5 cheapest cars don’t quite meet your needs then it’s worthwhile exploring the used car market right here on Cars.co.za.
Also, if you need car buying advice, feel free to engage with us on Facebook or X and we will gladly assist you.
Let’s take a closer look at 5 of the most affordable brand-new cars money can buy in South Africa.
The updated Suzuki S-Presso is ideal for first-time car buyers looking for a quirky hatchback. The S-Presso is powered by a 49 kW/89 Nm 1.0-litre petrol engine and can be had with either a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automated manual transmission.
The S-Presso is offered in 3 trim grades including GL, GL+ and S-Edition. Pricing starts from R178 900 and goes up to R219 900 for the range-topping S-Presso S-Edition automatic.
A new Suzuki Celerio arrived in South Africa in 2022 to entice local buyers and it remains a popular choice in the budget car segment.
The Celerio is powered by a 3-cylinder 1.0-litre engine that offers 49 kW and 89 Nm of torque. A 5-speed manual transmission does service in the Celerio, but you can have the Celerio in 5-speed automatic guise too.
The base-spec Celerio 1.0 GA is priced from R188 900 but the higher-spec Celerio 1.0 GL is priced at R210 900 while the automatic derivative is priced at R225 900.
Yes, it’s based on the new Suzuki Celerio as part of the Toyota-Suzuki product alliance and the Vitz is powered by a 3-cylinder 1.0-litre engine with 49 kW and 89 Nm of torque. A 5-speed manual transmission and 5-speed automatic is available. Pricing for the Vitz starts from R189 900 and goes up to R239 900 for the Vitz 1.0 XR automatic.
The Renault Kwid is proving to be quite popular locally and it’s by far the best-selling model for Renault in South Africa.
The Kwid is powered by a 3-cylinder, 1.0-litre petrol engine with 50 kW and 91 Nm of torque. The range starts with the Kwid 1.0 Life priced from R196 999. The higher-spec Kwid Zen is priced from R206 999. A range-topping Kwid Climber is also on offer with pricing starting at R217 999. Renault also offers an Automated Manual Transmission (AMT) for the Zen and Climber trim lines in addition to a 5-speed manual transmission.
The Dzire is the booted sedan version of the hugely popular Suzuki Swift hatchback. Both are well-priced and offer good value in the budget car segment. The Dzire and Swift are powered by the same 1.2-litre petrol engine with 61 kW and 113 Nm of torque and can be had with either a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automated manual transmission.
The Dzire GA is priced from R217 900 while the higher specification Dzire GL is priced from R239 900. For those seeking the convenience of an automatic, the Swift GL automatic is priced at R254 900.
It’s a new year – time to review your insurance policy
Are you looking to improve your financial stability in 2025 and/or wondering how you can optimise your existing insurance coverage? Budget Insurance presents a roadmap to address your pressing concerns and ensure your policy is tailored to your needs.
From an important policy review to assessing your coverage and obtaining an insurance quote, this step-by-step guide, courtesy of Budget Insurance, is designed to safeguard your path to financial security.
Why is it important to review your insurance policy?
The start of a new year is a good time to conduct a comprehensive insurance review of all your active policies.
According to a recent Financial and Customer Behaviour and Sentiment Study, only 52% of South Africans have insurance. Of those, a considerable proportion are primarily covered by funeral insurance. The 2nd most popular types of insurance are life insurance and 3rd, medical/health-related insurance.
The uptake of other types of insurance and income-loss protection in Mzansi is very low, leaving many individuals who are disinclined or unable to obtain these types of insurance vulnerable to financial risks.
Life changes — such as the birth of a child, your marital status, a home move or new job opportunities — will require an assessment to ensure that your insurance remains suitable for your circumstances, with no potential gaps or unnecessary overpayments.
Insurance providers routinely update their offerings, adjusting premiums in response to shifts in market trends, regulatory updates and personal risk factors. Staying informed about these modifications means optimising your coverage, capitalising on new discounts, and potentially saving on premiums.
Insurance policies also contain specific Terms and Conditions, making the insurance review process an invaluable opportunity to refresh your understanding of your policy details, ensuring you’re fully aware of what is covered and any limitations.
Budget Insurance encourages its clients to regularly review their insurance policies to make informed decisions, protect themselves and their property and assets against unforeseen risks, and contribute to their overall financial health. It will also give them lasting peace of mind and a sense of financial security.
How to assess your current insurance coverage
If you want to optimise your insurance coverage, Budget Insurance recommends that you start by taking stock of your existing policies. Evaluate each term, condition, and coverage to understand your current protection clearly. This will lay the groundwork for identifying any potential gaps.
Consider hypothetical scenarios that may lead to unexpected property damage or loss. Would your current policy – or policies – be sufficient to cover these situations? By identifying any potential shortcomings, you can decide to adjust how much coverage you need.
Life is dynamic, and circumstances can change. Consider a recent addition to the family – the birth of a child. This life-changing event will likely require adjustments to your life insurance coverage.
Another example is if you’ve recently moved home. Awareness of potential risks in the new area is important as these may impact your car insurance requirements.
By evaluating the impact of life changes, you can proactively address any shortfalls in your coverage so that you are sufficiently covered in your current circumstances.
Car insurance considerations
Regular reviews are important to ensure your car insurance policy aligns with your driving needs. You should start by assessing your current car insurance policy and scrutinising its terms, coverage and premiums to identify any areas requiring adjustments.
Look for discounts and savings that may have become available since your last review. Budget Insurance is committed to providing value and encourages its clients to take advantage of all eligible discounts.
Be aware of any changes in your driving habits or vehicle use, as these can impact your coverage requirements. Adjusting your policy accordingly will mean you’re adequately protected, whether it’s a change in commute distance or vehicle usage.
Consider additional value add-ons such as tyre insurance or scratch & dent coverage. These can provide peace of mind when unexpected events occur on the road.
Renters and homeowners’ insurance considerations
For both renters and homeowners, the importance of reviewing your insurance coverage to ensure it is effective cannot be stressed enough. Homeowners, in particular, should review their buildings insurance and home contents insurance to secure their property fully. On the other hand, renters should focus on home contents insurance, which is tailored to protect their personal belongings within the property.
Start the review process by evaluating your property insurance coverage. Assess the Terms and Conditions of your policy to confirm they align with the value of your assets and living situation.
You should also consider any changes in property value and renovations. For homeowners, property values may change, and renovations can help enhance your home’s overall value. Therefore, it is crucial to notify your insurer about any improvements or alterations and adjust your coverage accordingly to reflect these changes and guarantee your policy accommodates the current value of your property.
How to review your insurance policies
To conduct a thorough review of your car- and/or other insurance policy, follow these key steps:
Read your policy: Carefully read and understand the details outlined. Familiarise yourself with the terms, conditions and any recent updates.
Review the coverage: Identify the type of coverage you have. Whether it’s comprehensive, liability, or any other form of insurance, ensure it aligns with your current needs and circumstances.
Identify any coverage limits: Be aware of any coverage limits noted in your policy. Assess whether these still give you adequate coverage for your assets and liabilities.
Check deductibles and consider adjustments: Check and adjust deductibles associated with your policy to find a balance between premium costs and out-of-pocket expenses in case of a claim.
Examine policy limits: Determine any policy limits and adjust as needed based on changes in your financial situation or asset values.
Review exclusions: Be aware of any exclusions in your policy. Decide whether any additional add-ons are necessary to fill potential gaps in coverage.
Review premiums: Compare your current premium costs with alternative quotes to ensure you get the best value.
Check for discounts: Speak to your broker to see if discounts are available. Bundles or qualifying for age-related discounts could result in significant savings.
Review the new policy: If you’ve made adjustments or if your policy has recently been renewed, read the updated terms and conditions carefully.
Update and keep documentation safe: Keep all policy documents and communication with your insurer somewhere safe and easily accessible.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal, or medical advice.
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In the market for a staid but sturdy compact family car? Here’s why you might want to consider a used version of the 1st-gen Hyundai Creta, as well as a few negatives to keep in mind…
Whereas models such as the Ford EcoSport and 1st-gen Renault Duster helped to entrench the compact family car segment in South Africa more than a decade ago, Hyundai Automotive South Africa endured a significant gap in its crossover portfolio for several years, leaving the small crossover spoils to its rivals. It must have been a trifle frustrating for the South Korean firm’s local distributor, particularly once a seemingly ideal candidate – the Hyundai Creta – became available in certain other markets.
The original Creta (which wore the ix25 badge in China) hit the world stage in 2014, positioned as a sub-Tucson crossover designed specifically for emerging markets such as India, Brazil and Russia. However, South Africa had to wait a further 3 years for the Chennai-built model to saunter into local dealerships.
South Africa faced a lengthy wait for the original Creta.
But when it finally did arrive, it became an overnight success, perhaps even surprising Hyundai Automotive SA (originally, the company predicted that the 1st-gen Creta would merely help to grow its market share “through incremental sales”). Despite its local lifecycle lasting for not even 4 years, the GS-series Creta garnered 14 811 registrations in Mzansi, making it 1 of the segment’s most popular options.
This compact family car was named after the Greek island of Crete, in line with Hyundai’s strategy of christening its crossovers in honour of well-known places (think Tucson, Santa Fe and Kona). However, it wore the “Cantus” badge in the Dominican Republic, where “creta” is said to be a, well, rude slang word.
The 1st-gen Creta was on the market in South Africa for under 4 years.
Another fun fact: though the original Creta and initial examples of the 2nd-gen model sold in South Africa were sourced from India, the SU2 version currently on the market in Mzansi is imported from Indonesia.
Hyundai Creta model line-up in South Africa
In April 2014, Hyundai whipped the wraps off the ix25 Concept at the Beijing International Automotive Exhibition (motor show). The production version hit the market in China a few short months later, while the Indian-spec version started to roll off the South Korean brand’s Chennai assembly line in 2015.
At launch in Mzansi, the range comprised a trio of derivatives sharing a trim level.
The Creta was finally launched in South Africa in February 2017. Although the local line-up featured just a single trim level, buyers could choose between a naturally aspirated petrol engine (codenamed G4FG – from the Gamma family), paired with either a 6-speed manual gearbox or a 6-speed automatic transmission, or a turbodiesel motor, mated with the latter. All 3 derivatives were front-wheel drive.
Creta 1.6 MPI Executive 6MT (90 kW/150 Nm)
Creta 1.6 MPI Executive 6AT (90 kW/150 Nm)
Creta 1.6 CRDi Executive 6AT (94 kW/260 Nm)
The Creta’s belated arrival meant South Africa didn’t have to wait long for the facelifted version to touch down. In August 2018, the refreshed model hit the local market, sporting the latest version of Hyundai’s signature “cascading” grille, a redesigned front bumper (now with silver-painted sections), updated front foglamps (framed by LED daytime running lights) and a set of lower-profile roof rails.
Pre-facelift model is on the left, with the refreshed version on the right.
Round back, the midcycle update included a tweaked taillamp design, the repositioning of the bumper’s reflectors and a chunkier faux skidplate. A new alloy-wheel design completed the overhaul, while no substantial changes were made to the cabin. The powertrain line-up was also carried over unaltered.
In May 2019, Hyundai Automotive SA released 500 units of a new Limited Edition specification, which was available for any of the 3 derivatives. Offered exclusively in Polar White exterior paint with a black roof, these variants featured a “Limited Edition” badge on the tailgate.
Just 500 examples of the aptly named Limited Edition were available.
The Limited Edition units furthermore scored 2-tone 17-inch rims, black-and-red leatherette upholstery (as opposed to the standard black-and-grey colour scheme), subtle red trim on the dashboard and an upgraded infotainment system, complete with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
About 18 months later (in December 2020), the 2nd-gen Creta made local landfall, featuring a far more divisive exterior design than its comparatively staid predecessor, along with a trio of new engines and as many as 4 transmission choices. And so ended the 1st-gen Creta’s local run.
What are the Hyundai Creta’s strengths?
The cabin was functional and solidly screwed together.
Cabin simplicity and durability: Though the 1st-gen Creta’s cabin featured a smattering of hard plastics, everything felt solidly screwed together, lending the interior a real sense of durability. In line with this 5-seater small crossover’s restrained exterior styling, the cabin’s design wasn’t especially exciting, but it was certainly ergonomically sound. There was generous space on offer, with rear passengers enjoying plenty of legroom; the load bay, in turn, was said to be capable of swallowing a claimed 402 litres.
Option of a turbodiesel engine: Only a handful of contenders in this market segment were available with turbodiesel power, with most models offered exclusively in petrol guise. Although the 1.6 CRDi was the priciest of the 3 Creta derivatives, it rewarded its owner with handy levels of twisting force (peak torque of 260 Nm arrived at 2 750 rpm) and the potential for wallet-friendly fuel economy.
The turbodiesel engine could return impressive fuel-economy figures.
Indeed, despite Hyundai’s combined-cycle fuel-economy claim of 7.4 L/100 km, it was entirely possible to achieve a real-world figure in the mid-6 range without much effort. However, keep in mind that this long-in-the-tooth engine – which conformed only to “ancient” Euro 2 emissions standards – wasn’t the most refined powerplant, particularly when cold (when the typical diesel clatter was at its most obvious).
Well-resolved ride quality: Sporting conventional MacPherson struts up front and a torsion-beam suspension setup at the rear, the Creta delivered a particularly well-resolved ride quality. The plump tyres – all derivatives rode on 205/65 R16 rubber – certainly added to the feeling of pliancy.
High-profile tyres added to the already well-cushioned ride.
In addition, the 190 mm of ground clearance allowed drivers of this compact family car to confidently tackle gravel roads. Furthermore, despite featuring a loftier ride height than the Tucson of the era, the original Creta felt stable through sweeping corners, exhibiting generally predictable road manners.
What are the Hyundai Creta’s weaknesses?
Iffy infotainment system: Unfortunately, the 8.0-inch colour touchscreen positioned in the centre of the 1st-gen Creta’s fascia felt decidedly “aftermarket”. Indeed, it wasn’t up to the standards of the infotainment system available in European-built Hyundai models and, though crammed full of weird and wonderful features, was often frustratingly slow to respond to inputs.
The infotainment system was “quirky” at best.
In addition, the glossy screen was downright impossible to read in bright sunlight, while owners of early models reported various system glitches (though this was usually solved with a software update at the dealer). Finally, we’ve heard of – and indeed experienced – the occasional loss of video signal from the standard reverse-view camera.
Some missing features: Though the single trim level included several useful features (such as height-adjustable front seats, leatherette upholstery, rear parking sensors, static bending headlamps and air-con vents for the rear passengers), it was also missing a few key items. For example, the steering column lacked reach adjustment, which made it tricky for taller drivers to dial in the perfect seating position.
Rear occupants benefitted from aft air-con vents, but the centrally seated passenger was saddled with a lap belt.
Moreover, the GS-series Creta made do with manual aircon rather than climate control and did without cruise control. Though the list of safety features included 6 airbags, electronic stability control was sadly nowhere to be seen, while the centrally seated rear passenger was forced to endure a lap belt.
Miscellaneous issues: As with the IB-series i20 hatchback, Creta units finished in Polar White were known to suffer from flaking and peeling paint (also described as “paint delamination”). While Hyundai Automotive SA never publicly acknowledged this as a factory fault, we have heard of several instances of the South Korean brand’s local distributor covering repairs, or at least contributing to the cost thereof.
Watch out for peeling paint on Polar White examples.
Our research also led us to seemingly widespread claims in India that the 1st-gen Creta was afflicted with a braking issue, apparently linked to a faulty ABS sensor. However, despite searching high and low, we could find no concrete evidence of such incidents here in South Africa.
How much is a used Hyundai Creta in South Africa?
We found no examples of the Limited Edition on the used market.
The 1st-gen Creta shipped standard with Hyundai’s 5-year/150 000 km manufacturer’s warranty as well as a generous 7-year/200 000 km powertrain warranty. In addition, the purchase price included a 5-year/90 000 km service plan, with services scheduled at 15 000-km intervals.
Approximately 26% of the GS-series Hyundai Creta models listed on Cars.co.zaat the time of writing were turbodiesel variants, while the automatic gearbox was the most prevalent transmission, accounting for nearly 60% of vehicles. No examples of the Limited Edition were for sale at the time of writing.
Interestingly, auto-equipped derivatives were more prevalent than manuals.
Unusually, listings were surprisingly evenly spread across the 4 model years, with 2018 slightly ahead on 26%. Indicated mileages varied from just 22 000 km (on a 2020 1.6 MPI AT) to 277 000 km (clocked up by a 2019 1.6 MPI MT). We also discovered a 2018 1.6 CRDi AT that travelled well beyond 200 000 km.
Below R200 000: All listings below this mark – bar a 2019 example that had been subjected to questionable exterior styling tweaks – were from the opening model year. Predictably, we found only petrol-fed derivatives here, though both manual and automatic transmissions were on offer.
From R200 000 to R250 000: About 43% of listings were squeezed into this relatively narrow price bracket, where both petrol and diesel variants were available. Most examples were from the 2017 and 2018 model years, with the majority showing 6-figure kilometre readings on their odometers.
R250 000 to R300 000: These pricing bookends likewise housed approximately 43% of listings, though the turbodiesel engine was slightly less prevalent here. In contrast with the bracket above, this space favoured the latter 2 model years, while mileages tended to be well below 100 000 km.
R300 000 and up: Beyond the R300k mark, we found a small collection of 2020 models (both petrol and diesel), with most showing under 50 000 km on their odometers. The most expensive GS-series Creta we found was a 2020 1.6 CRDi with 29 600 km on the clock, priced at R349 990.
Which Hyundai Creta derivative should I buy?
Which do you prefer: pre-facelift or refreshed?
So, which version should you consider? Well, apart from what suits your pocket, decide which design appeals to you most: the original or the facelift. Since the 1st-gen Hyundai Creta was available exclusively in the Executive trim level, buyers then need only determine their preferred powertrain.
Though the naturally aspirated 1.6-litre petrol motor wasn’t quite as lacklustre as you may think (well, not in the denser air at the coast, anyway), we’d argue that the auto-equipped turbodiesel offered the best overall ownership experience. Not only was it capable of delivering more manageable monthly fuel bills, but it also served up far more low-down torque (the petrol unit’s peak twisting force of 150 Nm arrived at a lofty 4 850 rpm, after all), making it an eminently more tractable – if notably noisier – engine.
We’d opt for the turbodiesel powertrain.
As an aside, it’s worth noting that at launch, the diesel-driven Creta derivative was priced dangerously close to the base Tucson, which offered more space and, arguably, more style. By the time the facelift was introduced, the Creta 1.6 CRDi Executive cost exactly the same as the Tucson 2.0 Premium (of course, the latter was petrol-powered, had less standard kit and employed a manual gearbox).
Is the Hyundai Creta a worthwhile used purchase?
The facelifted Creta was available in these 5 colours.
While the Hyundai Creta faced several rivals – ranging from the likewise Indian-built Kia Seltos to the LY-gen Suzuki Vitara (imported from Hungary) and perhaps even the RU-series Honda HR-V – during its time on Mzansi’s new-car market, few were available in turbodiesel form.
In fact, the list of competing oil-burners was limited to the (smaller) B515-gen Ford EcoSport 1.5 TDCi, the HM-series Renault Duster 1.5 dCi and the (larger) J11-gen Nissan Qashqai 1.5 dCi. In short, shoppers in this segment had very little choice when it came to turbodiesel-engined compact family cars.
Staid but sturdy wins the race?
In a way, that helped the GS-series Hyundai Creta to stand out in the small crossover swarm. Though it certainly wasn’t the most stylish contender in its class, those who could look past the relatively staid exterior design found a practical, comfortable and ultimately well-built offering. Largely fuss-free and unpretentious, it’s hardly surprising that the 1st-gen Creta was an overnight success in South Africa.
The Hyundai Creta Electric has been revealed, with a range of just under 500 kilometres. Here are the early details.
The Hyundai Creta Electric is built in India and will be formally revealed at the Bharat Mobility Show in the middle of January 2025.
Most of the details, including critical info such as range and performance, have already been confirmed. Visually, the Creta Electric differs from the internal combustion-powered derivatives by way of its split grille which has been blocked with a pixelated pattern. This pattern is repeated on the rear and while the side profile is similar to the standard car, the 17-inch aerodynamic wheels are unique to this EV.
While outputs of the car have yet to be confirmed, performance is brisk, with a claimed 0-100 kph of 7.9 seconds, making it quicker than the petrol-powered Creta. There will be two battery sizes offered, with capacities of 42 kWh and 51.4 kWh. As far as range goes, 390 km and 473 km are the claims, based on the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) testing process.
The charging port is located on the front bumper and charging rates suggest 10-80% in about an hour using a DC charger, while a 10-100% on an AC wallbox should take around 4 hours.
Will the Hyundai Creta Electric come to South Africa?
As a reminder, electric car takeup in SA is hampered by a 25% import duty (petrol/diesel cars are subject to 18%) which makes them pricey. There are no incentives currently to encourage electric car take up either.
There’s good news coming though as the SA government published the new-energy vehicle white paper in late 2023 which should stimulate local electric car production and we should start seeing the effects of that implementation over the course of 2025 and 2026, which should then trigger some benefits in this space.
We’ll have more information about the Hyundai Creta Electric once it has been formally revealed and we will update this article.
