Will SsangYong return to South Africa as KGM?

A recent trademark registration by KGM suggests the Korean brand formerly known as SsangYong may well be gearing up for a return to South Africa. Here’s what we know…

Remember SsangYong? Well, these days the Korean brand is known as the “KG Mobility Corporation” (or KGM, for short). And a recent trademark registration suggests a return to South Africa may well be under consideration.

Before we delve into the details, here’s a quick refresher on the firm’s chequered history. Originally established as Dong-A Motor in 1954, the company was renamed “SsangYong Motor” in 1988. In 1997, Daewoo Motors bought a controlling stake in the firm, before China’s SAIC Motor and India’s Mahindra took over in 2004 and 2011, respectively.

KGM’s current-gen Actyon was introduced in 2024.

In 2022, after Mahindra cut funding to SsangYong due to outstanding debt – with the latter thus being forced to file for bankruptcy – the marque was acquired by a South Korean conglomerate called the KG Group. SsangYong was rebranded to KGM the following year (though it’s interesting to note the company is called “KGM SsangYong” in Australia today).

Soon thereafter, in June 2023, the KG Mobility Corporation applied to trademark “KG Mobility” in South Africa. And, by January 2025, the trademark had been officially registered in Mzansi.

The Tivoli dates back to 2015 and was SsangYong’s 1st new model under Mahindra.

The company technically still holds the rights to various familiar SsangYong badges previously used in SA – including Actyon (though this trademark expires in September 2025), Korando, Rexton and Musso – along with Tivoli and Torres (the latter registered locally in April 2023). Interestingly, KGM’s current global line-up comprises these 6 nameplates.

The Tivoli is a small crossover that shares its platform with Mahindra’s XUV300 (and, naturally, the XUV 3XO, too), while the Korando, Actyon, Rexton and Torres (with the latter offered in EV form, too) are all crossovers/SUVs. Finally, the Musso is, of course, a body-on-frame bakkie.

Production of the Q200-series Musso bakkie started back in 2018.

KGM says it’s developing a battery-electric bakkie (codenamed “0100”) as well as fully electric SUVs, all under a partnership with Chinese new-energy vehicle brand BYD. Furthermore, the Korean automaker recently signed an agreement with Chery, announcing that it will “jointly develop mid-to-large SUVs targeting global markets” with this Chinese company, too.

As a reminder, SsangYong entered the South African market around 1995, with Mahindra SA taking over as the brand’s local distributor in 2012. Exactly when SsangYong officially withdrew from Mzansi is unclear, though it was likely sometime between 2017 and 2019.

The Rexton is set to be replaced by a new model (codenamed “SE-10”) jointly developed with Chery.

Of course, as we always point out in such instances, a trademark application is by no means a guarantee the automaker in question will indeed enter the market. But considering KGM has already established a presence in fellow right-hand-drive markets such as the United Kingdom and Australia, this trademark registration is an indication the brand is at least considering expanding into South Africa, too…

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Hyundai Santa Fe (2018-2025) Buyer’s Guide

Looking for a spacious 7-seater SUV but don’t require serious off-road ability? Let’s examine the 4th-gen Hyundai Santa Fe’s strengths and weaknesses – and see what you can expect to pay for a neat used example…

The Toyota Fortuner has long been the default choice for South African motorists who require a 7-seater SUV. What’s that got to do with the Hyundai Santa Fe, you ask? The absolute dominance of the former saw several highly competent offerings – including the 4th-gen Santa Fe – largely overlooked in Mzansi!

Yes, despite arriving as an utterly compelling package, Hyundai’s unibody Santa Fe found itself competing not only with Toyota’s Prospecton-built stalwart, but other bakkie-based adventure SUVs such as the 2nd-gen Ford Everest, Isuzu’s RJ-series MU-X and Mitsubishi’s 3rd-gen Pajero Sport.

Hyundai Santa Fe global reveal
The 4th-gen Santa Fe was unwrapped in early 2018.

With SA buyers seemingly preferring these rugged body-on-frame contenders – which furthermore offered loftier off-road credentials – local sales of the TM-series Santa Fe (which was based on a front-wheel-drive platform) were decidedly slow. For instance, just 177 units were sold across South Africa in the whole of 2023, a figure that fell to a mere 86 units in 2024.

To complicate matters, Hyundai Automotive SA aimed rather high with its Santa Fe, listing premium-badged SUVs such as the Land Rover Discovery Sport, Audi Q5, Volvo XC60 and BMW X3 as direct rivals. As such, the Korean firm’s 7-seater ultimately found itself in something of a “no man’s land” between cheaper bakkie-based offerings and more expensive executive SUVs. 

Hyundai Santa Fe pre-facelift cabin
A look at the pre-facelift model’s cabin.

As an aside, it’s worth noting the Santa Fe was Hyundai’s flagship product in Mzansi until September 2021, when the larger and even more expensive Palisade touched down to assume that mantle.  

Hyundai Santa Fe model line-up in South Africa

Hyundai Santa Fe rear
The 4th-gen Santa Fe launched locally late in 2018.

The first official images of the 4th-gen Hyundai Santa Fe were released in February 2018 ahead of this model’s world premiere at the Geneva International Motor Show the very next month.

It wasn’t long before the TM-series Santa Fe arrived in South Africa, hitting the local market in November 2018. It inherited its predecessor’s 2.2-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine, though upgraded from the old 6-speed automatic transmission to a fresh 8-speed item. At launch, the Santa Fe line-up comprised a trio of derivatives, with only the flagship boasting all-wheel drive:

  • Santa Fe 2.2D Premium 8AT FWD (142 kW/440 Nm)
  • Santa Fe 2.2D Executive 8AT FWD (142 kW/440 Nm)
  • Santa Fe 2.2D Elite 8AT AWD (142 kW/440 Nm)

Little changed until April 2021, when the refreshed Santa Fe made local landfall, with Hyundai describing the updated model as more than a “mere facelift”. Indeed, this mid-cycle revision – which saw the local range rationalised to 2 derivatives – included not only more striking styling (largely courtesy of that giant grille) but also platform tweaks and significant mechanical alterations.

Hyundai Santa Fe pre-facelift vs facelift
Pre-facelift on the left and refreshed version on the right.

For instance, the updated Santa Fe switched to the automaker’s latest “Smartstream” CRDi turbodiesel engine, which featured an aluminium (rather than iron) block, a higher (2 200-bar) injection system and a new turbocharger design. Despite its slightly smaller displacement (2 151 cm3 versus 2 199 cm3) and lower weight, the new motor’s peak outputs increased to 148 kW and 441 Nm.

  • Santa Fe 2.2D Executive 8DCT FWD (148 kW/441 Nm)
  • Santa Fe 2.2D Elite 8DCT AWD (148 kW/441 Nm)

In addition, the torque-converter automatic transmission fell away at this point; it was replaced by a “wet” 8-speed dual-clutch transmission operated through new shift-by-wire buttons rather than a traditional lever. Meanwhile, the overhauled cabin boasted a new floating centre-console design, while also upgrading from a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment screen to an 8-inch item.

Hyundai Santa Fe facelift cabin
Several changes were made to the cabin as part of a comprehensive facelift.

Then, for the 2023 model year, the AWD-equipped Elite derivative quietly became available with a raft of additional driver-assistance equipment, including lane-departure warning, lane-follow assist, fatigue detection, driver-attention warning, forward-collision avoidance assist and rear cross-traffic collision avoidance assist.

Local sales of the 4th-gen Santa Fe petered out late in 2024, while Hyundai Automotive SA deliberated on whether or not to introduce the 5th-gen model, which is interestingly not built in turbodiesel form.

What are the Hyundai Santa Fe’s strengths?

Hyundai Santa Fe rear seats
Plenty of space back there.

Roomy, versatile interior: The TM-series Santa Fe was larger than its forebear, with much of the extra wheelbase length translating to additional 2nd- and 3rd-row legroom. Access to the final row of pews – which was spacious enough to comfortably accommodate young children – was furthermore simplified by the introduction of a clever “1-touch walk-in” function (at the prod of a button, the 2nd row slid forward and folded out of the way).

With all seats in place, luggage capacity was a modest 130 litres (admittedly slightly more than before), though this figure increased to 547 litres with the 3rd row stowed and a whopping 1 625 litres with the 2nd row also folded down. Interestingly, the facelifted Santa Fe grew 15 mm in length to 4 785 mm, and that helped Hyundai to free up even more 2nd-row legroom – as well as a smidge extra cargo capacity.

The Santa Fe rode with a far higher degree of comfort than bakkie-based SUVs.

Ride quality and refinement: Endowed with a multi-link rear suspension arrangement and dampers clearly tuned for comfort, the Santa Fe offered a commendable ride quality and lofty levels of refinement. The latter quality was particularly evident on the facelifted model, which seemingly benefitted from additional sound insulation.

In short, compared with its bakkie-based rivals, Hyundai’s 7-seater SUV displayed impeccable road manners, easily soaking up road imperfections even when specified with the largest alloy wheels available (20-inch items wrapped in 255/45 R20 tyres in the case of the facelifted Elite).

Hyundai Santa Fe engine bay
The turbodiesel engines available offered a pleasing balance of grunt and efficiency.

Oomph and efficiency: While there certainly were noteworthy differences between the pair of 2.2-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engines offered during this Santa Fe’s local lifecycle, both delivered suitable levels of punch. Indeed, peak twisting force was on tap from as low as 1 750 rpm in each case, lending this big SUV a pleasing degree of tractability.

These oil-burning motors were also capable of returning wallet-friendly fuel consumption. For the pre-facelift FWD derivatives, Hyundai claimed a figure of just 7.8 L/100 km, a number that grew to 8.2 L/100 km in the case of the AWD variant. With the new engine rolled out at the mid-cycle update, the South Korean firm listed a claim of 7.9 L/100 km for both the front- and all-wheel-drive derivatives.

A brief aside on another key difference between these 2 engines: the earlier unit used a chain-driven cam, while the newer mill (which had a narrower bore, but longer stroke) switched to a belt. Though the latter was quieter, the belt theoretically had a shorter service life than the chain.

What are the Hyundai Santa Fe’s weaknesses?

Despite the facelifted top-spec version’s drive modes, the 4th-gen Santa Fe was no off-roader.

Lacked bakkie-based rivals’ off-road ability: While the 4th-gen Santa Fe was streets ahead of its bakkie-based competitors in terms of ride comfort, it simply couldn’t match them on the rough stuff. Sure, Hyundai added a trio of “terrain modes” (sand, snow and mud) to the all-paw Elite flagship at the facelift, but this remained a decidedly road-biased SUV.

Still, the Santa Fe was certainly more than capable of handling the average gravel road, with the early version featuring a ground clearance of 185 mm, a figure that fell to 176 mm in the case of the facelifted FWD variant and grew to 206 mm on the refreshed AWD derivative.

The curtain airbags offered only partial protection for 3rd-row occupants.

Limited airbag coverage for 3rd row: Though all versions of the TM-series Hyundai Santa Fe sold in South Africa were equipped with 6 airbags, it’s important to note the curtain airbags did not provide comprehensive coverage for the 3rd row of seats (an issue Hyundai resolved on the 5th-gen model).

In effect, the curtain airbags stopped short of the C-pillars, meaning the rearmost occupants didn’t benefit from full protection. While some coverage is undoubtedly better than none (certain of SA’s budget 7-seaters make do with only dual airbags, after all), it’s not great news for families keen on frequently filling all 7 seats.

Options on the used market are limited.

Not many on the used market: Is this really a weakness? Well, though it’s perhaps it’s a little unfair on the Santa Fe (but also an indication that there’s little else to criticise from a product perspective), a lack of used stock makes it challenging for those shopping for a 2nd-hand example.

Fascinatingly, the 2nd iteration (2 681 units) was by far the most popular Santa Fe in South Africa, before local sales slipped slightly to 1 980 units with the 3rd-gen model. While we don’t have confirmed figures for the TM-series model, we’ve no doubt it failed to match its forebears’ respective volumes.

How much is a used Hyundai Santa Fe in SA?

A lengthy warranty was standard in Mzansi.

Throughout the 4th-gen Santa Fe’s local lifecycle, a 5-year/150 000 km warranty, supplemented by an additional 2-year/50 000 km powertrain warranty, shipped standard. Initially, Hyundai Automotive SA offered a 5-year/90 000 km service plan (with intervals of 15 000 km), though later upgraded to a 6-year/90 000 km arrangement.

At the time of writing, we found fewer than 50 units of the TM-series Hyundai Santa Fe listed on Cars.co.za. Interestingly, the split between FWD and AWD derivatives was almost even (leaning slightly in the favour of the latter), with the Elite the marginally more prevalent trim grade.

At the time of writing, just 50 units were listed on Cars.co.za countrywide.

Indicated mileages varied from just 50 km on a virtually brand-new example to 154 000 km achieved by a 2019 Elite AWD unit. A whopping 88% of listed examples showed under 100 000 km on their respective odometers. Though listings were relatively evenly distributed between model years, the most popular was 2021, which accounted for around 27%.

  • Below R400 000: Around 14% of TM-series Santa Fe listings were priced below R400 000, most being base Premium derivatives from the opening 2 model years. That said, the most affordable example we found was a 2019 Elite variant (with 83 000 km on the clock) priced at R349 900.
  • R400 000 to R600 000: Approximately half of all listed 4th-gen Santa Fe units were positioned between these pricing bookends. Interestingly, we found slightly more refreshed models here than pre-facelift versions, with the Executive FWD being the most common variant by a small margin.
  • R600 000 to R800 000: Accounting for nearly 22%, this pricing bracket featured only facelifted examples (chiefly from the 2023 model year), with an almost even split between the Executive FWD derivative and the Elite AWD variant. 
  • Above R800 000: The final 14% of 4th-gen Santa Fe stock was priced above R800 000. These units were all from the final 2 model years, the majority with mileage well under 15 000 km. The most expensive example we found was a virtually new Elite AWD with 100 km on the clock and priced at R1 049 000.

Which Hyundai Santa Fe derivative should you buy?

The mid-cycle update brought bolder front-end styling.

Since styling is a largely subjective matter, we’ll leave you to decide whether you prefer the more restrained exterior design of the pre-facelift Santa Fe or the bolder look of the updated model. That said, keep in mind there were several under-the-skin differences, too.

While we can’t definitively state which of the 2 engines is more reliable, we’d posit that risk-averse buyers who intend on keeping their vehicle for many, many years might be better served by the earlier chain-driven motor and torque-converter automatic transmission.

The larger screen in the refreshed model.

On the other hand, the newer powertrain in the facelifted Santa Fe was a little gutsier and more efficient, while the updated cabin felt a mite more upmarket. So, with that lengthy warranty in mind, we’d probably point to the facelifted Executive FWD as the most compelling variant for the average buyer, on balance.

Why not the Elite AWD? Well, if your budget allows, we certainly wouldn’t blame you for opting for this flagship variant instead (after all, it gained items such as larger alloys, LED taillamps, a panoramic sunroof, rear-seat alert and a heating-and-ventilation function for the front seats), though we’d argue the all-wheel-drive system would prove largely superfluous for most buyers.

What are some alternatives to the Santa Fe?

Hyundai’s Santa Fe faced varied rivals.

Besides the ladder-frame models and premium-badged SUVs mentioned at the outset of this Buyer’s Guide, what other vehicles competed directly with the 4th-gen Hyundai Santa Fe? Well, local shoppers would certainly also have considered the closely related MQ4-series Kia Sorento.

The Allspace version of the 2nd-gen Volkswagen Tiguan was another compelling 7-seater unibody SUV, though it was somewhat more compact and affordable than the Santa Fe. This German offering was furthermore available with a wide range of powertrains, though keep in mind the turbodiesel engine fell away at the facelift.

Space was not in short supply.

There was also the Mitsubishi Outlander (but both the 3rd- and 4th-gen models were offered exclusively in naturally aspirated petrol form in Mzansi), while the 6th-gen Honda CR-V (another petrol-only affair) that hit local roads towards the end of the Santa Fe’s lifecycle upgraded to 7 seats.

Still, like the latter 2 models, Hyundai’s TM-series Santa Fe was ultimately a low-volume product. Blessed with a practical yet decidedly premium interior as well as gutsy turbodiesel powertrains, it was a real shame this family-friendly model was largely overlooked by South Africans in favour of bakkie-based rivals and smaller premium-badged executive SUVs.

Wrong place, wrong time?

Perhaps the TM-series Hyundai Santa Fe simply found itself in the wrong market at the wrong time – and arguably at the wrong price. Whatever the case, there’s no denying the value this model offers in the used space today.

Looking for a used Hyundai Santa Fe to buy?

Find one on Cars.co.za!

Looking to sell your car? You can sell it to our dealer network here

Lexus GX (2025) Launch Review

Within a month of going on sale, the Lexus GX has set a local sales record for its brand. Will the new model make a dent in the luxury SUV market and enable Lexus to bolster its position in Mzansi? We attended the GX’s local launch event in the Eastern Cape.

What is a Lexus GX?

Lexus GX front
In SE trim, the Lexus GX is one of the best-looking new SUVs in recent memory.

The new Lexus GX shares its platform with the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, but whereas the Toyota is more utilitarian and built for purpose, the Lexus’ packaging is distinctly more upmarket and luxurious.

The Lexus GX is a genuine off-roader too, replete with low-range and all the off-road features and technology a modern 4×4 should offer. Given the newcomer’s premium appeal, combined with notable ability on the rough stuff, it’s probably the closest thing in the market to a Land Rover Defender!

One of the key elements that separates the GX from its Prado cousin is the drivetrain. Lexus eschews diesels in favour of turbopetrols and hybrids, and that’s why the GX gets a V6 turbopetrol from the Land Cruiser 300. It also solves the major complaint that the current-gen Prado isn’t particularly gutsy.

See also: 2025 CarsAwards: Best Adventure SUV in SA

What Lexus GX models are on offer?

Lexus GX Overtrail
The Overtrail derivative comes with 18-inch wheels and seats only 5 inside.

Lexus has launched the GX with a 2-variant lineup, but there is potential for other derivatives to be added to the range in the not-too-distant future. First up is the SE, which is positioned as a more on-road spec Lexus GX, featuring 22-inch wheels and electrically deploying side sills for added kerbside appeal.

It still gets low-range, but doesn’t have the more hardcore off-road features, such as Crawl Mode or Multi-Terrain-Select. It also has a 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system (the Overtrail: 14 speakers). 

The 2nd variant is the Overtrail, which I suspect will prove to be the most popular GX in SA. It has a more rugged appearance (including a beefed-up roof rack and static side sills), while its 18-inch wheels are fitted with off-road tyres. It comes with all the 4×4 tech, including Crawl Mode and Multi-Terrain-Select. 

The other major difference between the SE and Overtrail is that the former is a 7-seater, while the latter is a 5-seater.

See also: Lexus GX (2025) Price & Specs

Is the V6-engined Lexus GX a Prado killer?

Lexus GX Overtrail rear
The GX comes with a 3.5-litre turbopetrol V6. A hybrid variant could be on the way next.

The 3.4-litre V6 turbopetrol wedged under the Lexus GX’s bonnet delivers peak outputs of 260 kW and 650 Nm of torque. It’s a slightly downtuned version of the unit in the Land Cruiser 300, but still essentially the same engine that Toyota uses in its Daker spec Hilux that won this year’s Dakar Rally.

The step-up in power is a nice-to-have; the twin-turbocharged V6 (combined with a 10-speed automatic ‘box) is creamy, plus it delivers pleasing levels of acceleration/in-gear urge to execute quick overtakes. It feels decidedly more premium than the Prado’s turbodiesel and should be well up for the job of towing.

But the extra shove comes at the cost of higher fuel consumption. We found that at freeway speeds, you are likely to return between 11 and 12 L/100 km, but that number will shoot up to 16 L/100 km in town.

The Lexus GX is also limited to an 80-litre fuel tank with no option for a bigger or (30-litre) secondary tank (as its Prado cousin has), which means your range is likely to be about 450 km between fill-ups.

What’s the Lexus GX interior like?

Lexus GX interior
The interior is classy and upmarket, also, because it’s a Lexus, you don’t have to spec any optional extras.

Modern Lexus interiors are a fry cry from the ergonomically-challenged vehicles of just 5 years ago, where the infotainment systems were clunky/difficult to navigate, the screen resolutions were poor, and you had to try to deftly drive a mouse-like controller with your left hand to select any menu option.

The infotainment system in the new Lexus GX is markedly better, but still not the most user-friendly upon first interaction. Thankfully, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connect easily and utilise the whole screen, which lifts the usability and size of all your connected apps appreciably.

I’m not the biggest fan of the new Toyota/Lexus driver display screen – it confuses me, and I can never seem to access what I want on the display. I much prefer the Land Rover-, Mercedes-Benz-, BMW- and Audi- systems that are highly configurable and let you see exactly what you want on the screen.

SE variants come equipped with a 3rd row of 2 additional seats.

The Lexus system seems to be a set of pre-configured options from which you can choose. I do need to spend some more time with the setup to see if I can figure it out entirely, however.

As for comfort levels, Lexus always delivers high levels of build quality and premium feel. Plus, there are no options: the sticker price gets you everything available. In the SE, the 3rd row of seats fold electrically, while the 2nd row of seats fold manually and have a tumble and turn function for more loading space. 

Is the Lexus GX a good 4×4?

The Overtrail model also comes with both a centre and rear diff-lock.

The new Lexus GX was genuinely impressive on the off-road course that we traversed as part of the launch programme. It feels every bit as good as the Prado it’s based on, without any potential drawbacks from being a more luxury-oriented vehicle. Multi-Terrain-Select allows you to program the car for the conditions ahead, such as Mud, Sand, Rocks or Snow. It also features the same anti-roll bar system that can be disconnected (for more axle articulation) and then reconnected (for better on-road stability).

We found the new GX could handle everything put in front of it, just as you’d expect from a fit-for-purpose Toyota product, just with more comfort and luxury that comes with the Lexus badge.

How much does the Lexus GX cost?

Lexus GX 550 Overtrail (5-seater)R1 766 000
Lexus GX 550 Overtrail Bi-Tone (5-seater)R1 776 000
Lexus GX 550 SE (7-seater)R1 829 000
Lexus GX 550 Overtrail Off-Road (5-seater)R1 867 000

The GX is sold with a 7-year/100 000 km warranty and maintenance plan. Services are 10 000 km apart.

New Lexus GX Specs & Prices in South Africa

Search for a Lexus GX listed for sale on Cars.co.za

Summary

Lexus may finally make inroads into the SA market with the GX.

In its first month of sales, Lexus South Africa managed to ship 63 units of the new GX to its customers. Our records go back to around 2013, and we can’t see any other Lexus model that has sold that well.

It appears that Lexus has found a vehicle that resonates with the South African market, thanks to some great design work and the door that was inadvertently left open by the Toyota Prado’s less powerful engine. I suspect that the Lexus GX may have the folks at Defender looking over their shoulders, too.

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Air-cooled Porsche 911 Turbos: Classic Comparison

We drive the Porsche 911 (930) Turbo – nicknamed “The widowmaker 911” – and its 2 (also air-cooled) successors: the 964 and 993. Most 911s are turbocharged these days, but the 911 Turbo owes much of its mythic status to these visceral sportscars.

Behold the unmistakable sight of widened arches, huge Fuchs wheels and that iconic whaletail… These are the unforgettable characteristics of the original air-cooled 911 Turbo, released 51 years ago in 1974.

Find a Porsche 911 Turbo for sale here

Aside from incorporating these (now traditional) cosmetic upgrades over a standard 911, the Turbo set a new performance benchmark in the ’70s – not only for Porsche, but the automotive industry as a whole.

The introduction of the Type-930 911 heralded a new dawn for everyday performance cars, and its Turbo variant – Porsche’s quickest production car at the time – quickly gained a fanatical following. Subsequent iterations of the 911 Turbo may have offered more power and gadgetry, but air-cooled 911 Turbos carry a reputation for being largely unmatched in terms of delivering a memorable driver experience.

Do they live up to that reputation today? Well, we gathered a trio of stunning examples for a test drive in the Winelands to find out.

When the 1st deliveries of the Porsche 911 (930) Turbo began in the spring of 1975, the automotive industry was enduring a challenging time. It was only a year after the OPEC oil crisis, which added to the misery in the stock markets, which were in the midst of a 2-year crash cycle…

But the world had to take notice when Porsche unveiled the original 911 (930) Turbo at the 1974 Paris Motor Show! The 1st forced induction 911 attracted international attention as 1 of the fastest cars of the time; moreover, it was undoubtedly one of the Zuffenhausen-based brand’s most luxurious cars to date.

The idea (at the time) was to produce a limited run of only 1 000 Turbo units, but demand surpassed Porsche’s rather conservative expectations and 2 876 of the first 3.0-litre-engined cars were sold.

It is widely reported that Porsche opted to implement forced-induction technology in the 911 range because its turbocharged flat-12 cylinder engine had proved successful in the 1972 and 1973 Can-Am championships. However, this doesn’t tell the full story – if anything, it merely scratches the surface.

As early as 1969, Porsche had trialled turbocharging on the Type-901 2.0-litre engine, but it paused development after declaring the tech too advanced for series production. After resuming development a few years later, a 3.0-litre flat-6 turbopetrol engine (derived from the Carrera RS) was fitted to the 911.

Porsche 911 (930) Turbo

This black 911 (930) Turbo is powered by the 3.3-litre version of that motor, of which production began in late 1977. It is remarkable how the interior of the 2nd iteration of the 1st air-cooled Porsche 911 Turbo has withstood the test of time – although there are a few rattles, it still feels solid for a car of its age.

Specifications:

  • Model: 1980 Porsche 911 (930) Turbo
  • Engine: 3.3-litre flat-6 turbopetrol
  • Power: 221 kW at 5 500 rpm
  • Torque: 440 Nm at 4 400 rpm
  • Transmission: 4-speed manual, RWD
  • Weight: 1 335 kg
  • 0-100 kph: 5.4 sec (claimed)
  • Top Speed: 260 kph (claimed)

Luxury items at the time included electric windows, an electric sunroof, aircon and a radio/cassette deck. You can also appreciate the iconic flat dashboard with its lower step, an interior characteristic that has changed little across the 20-year timespan of the air-cooled Porsche 911 Turbo models in this trio.

If you consider that this car was produced in 1980, it still feels incredibly quick by modern standards. Weighing 135 kg less than the 911 (964) Turbo, 0-100 kph is dispatched in a very respectable 5,4 sec. Owing to the 4-speed gearbox on this specific model, each gear is longer than those in the 964 and 993.

Unsurprisingly, the 930’s engine exhibits a significant turbo lag. If peak torque arrives mid-corner (if you misjudge your throttle input when accelerating out of a bend), the car will oversteer quickly and sharply (with a glint in his eye, the car’s owner admitted it happened to him during the previous night’s drive).

Therefore, a 911 (930) Turbo pilot always needs to anticipate the boost from the single turbocharger – it’s a part of a game you will need to play to master the car and its rather eccentric acceleration.

The ferocity of the on-boost acceleration, however, more than makes up for the much-talked-about lag; the 1st-gen 911 Turbo serves up a physical driving experience that modern cars can’t match. Unfettered by the driver aids fitted to later models, the “raw” 930 is the iconic Porsche 911 Turbo, warts and all.

964-series 911 Turbo

Porsche reintroduced the Type-964 911 Turbo in December 1990. Featuring a 930-esque wide-bodied version of the standard 964-series model, Porsche initially opted to tweak the Type 930/68 unit with a larger intercooler rather than develop a new engine, which upped the power slightly to 235 kW.

Specifications:

  • Model: 1993 Porsche 911 (964) Turbo
  • Engine: 3.6-litre flat-6 turbopetrol
  • Power: 265 kW at 5 500 rpm
  • Torque: 540 Nm at 4 500 rpm
  • Transmission: 5-speed manual, RWD
  • Weight: 1 470 kg
  • 0-100 kph: 4.8 sec (claimed)
  • Top Speed: 280 kph (claimed)

However, the engine size increased to 3.6 litres in the Turbo II (still 964), with most parts based on the new M64/01 engine being used in the rest of the 911 range. The air-cooled M64/50 engine of this 911 Turbo used new pistons, and boost pressure was increased from 0.82 to 0.92 bar by simply placing a stronger spring in the wastegate. As a result, Porsche was able to bump the power up from 235 kW (in the 3.3-litre) to 265 kW, and as such, the 964 doesn’t suffer from quite as much turbo lag as the 930.

You notice the 1st mechanical difference between the 911 (964) Turbo and its predecessor immediately – the slick and direct G50 5-speed ‘box dispenses with the 930’s loose and vague shift sensation.

The seats are electrically adjustable too, and with little effort, I can move into the perfect driving position. With a lower seating position, you immediately feel more in control of the car than in the 911 (930) Turbo.

Of the 3 cars in this group, the 964 has the most supportive seats. Maybe it is because of the originality of the seats (allied with regular use), but the driver sinks far enough into the chair itself, while the side bolsters protrude more than in the other 2 Turbos. The upright window gives you a good view and, as is the case in the 930, the iconic headlights help the driver to direct the car perfectly through corners.

Yes, it does feel a tad more modern than the pioneering 930, but moreover, the steering wheel feeds the driver a good level of information from the road. Turn-in is good, but no, it’s not as crisp as in the 993.

Make no mistake: the 964 is no less challenging to drive than the 930. Also, the twitchy rear-wheel-drive setup means that if you want to drive one of these to its very limit, you’d better be handy at the ‘wheel.

993-series 911 Turbo

Type-993 yielded the final iteration of the air-cooled Porsche 911 Turbo, but it was a game-changer and a technological conqueror. Revealed at the 1996 Geneva Motor Show, this model introduced 4-wheel-drive to the 911 Turbo range for the first time, a drivetrain we experience in the 911 Turbo to this day.

Specifications:

  • Model: 1996 Porsche 911 (993) Turbo
  • Engine: 3.6-litre flat-6 turbopetrol
  • Power: 265 kW at 5 500 rpm
  • Torque: 540 Nm at 4 500 rpm
  • Transmission: 5-speed manual, RWD
  • Weight: 1 470 kg
  • 0-100 kph: 4.8 sec (claimed)
  • Top Speed: 280 kph (claimed)

Some purists suggest AWD spoils the spirit of the 911 Turbo, but it undoubtedly improves roadholding! Implementing twin low-inertia turbos for the first time, the M64/60 engine gained 35 kW over the 964’s, and because it could send torque to all wheels, the 911 (993) Turbo became a true all-weather supercar.

The yellow car, powered by the more “vigorous” 336 kW engine, also features stiffer suspension and the 993 GT2’s exhaust system. It has noticeably wider exhaust tips and a harsh, raspy and metallic sound as you it barrels through the rev range. This increase in power over the standard 300 kW comes from, inter alia, bigger intercoolers and turbos, while the engine management system has also been modified.

The later 997- and even 996-series 911 Turbos are renowned for their analogue-like driving experiences, but from behind the 911 (993) Turbo’s 4-spoke steering wheel, that feeling is even more pronounced.

First, the 6-speed ‘box has a similar action to the 964’s. It snaps perfectly into each slot. In 1st gear, the rev needle swings into the red so quickly that, in 2nd, I watch the needle closely until it kisses 7 000 rpm.

This upgraded engine makes its sheer performance felt in every gear. With so little turbo-lag, you quickly realise there’s no need to wait for the kick from the engine, as it is available almost immediately – an impressive feat for a 25-year-old car!

As rain begins to fall in the beautiful Winelands region and the road becomes increasingly greasy, the 4-wheel-drive 911 (993) Turbo feels like the best and safest option of the 3 Porsches – or so I thought.

After 20 minutes of marveling at how the 993’s rear wing melts over those fat hips in the side-view mirrors, I pull away from the traffic lights with zeal. I use the best part of 6 000 rpm in 2nd, before hooking into 3rd. Then, for a brief moment, all 4 wheels break traction before I lift off the throttle…

The moral is that despite the aid of 4-wheel drive, the 911 (993) Turbo can still be lethal in the wrong hands. Like its 964 and 930 predecessors, utmost care must be exercised when behind the wheel, especially in low-grip conditions.

Summary

This “tricky at, and even close to, the limit” nature feels anachronistic in an era when most cars have several electronic gizmos (many of which are for safety) and automatic (PDK) is increasingly seen as the obvious choice. Indeed, these air-cooled cars couldn’t be further removed from today’s advanced 911s.

It is sometimes difficult to evaluate each of these air-cooled Porsche 911 Turbos in isolation. But drive them back-to-back, and you quickly realise why the 911 Turbo still sits at the apex of Zuffenhausen’s volume-produced 911 range – and why it (and its S sibling) are the only 911s to bear the Turbo suffix.

Find a new or classic Porsche 911 listed for sale on Cars.co.za

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New MG Cyber X teasers preview boxy SUV

Shadowy teaser images of the new MG Cyber X have dropped in China, giving us our first official glimpse of the Chinese-owned British brand’s upcoming boxy SUV…

The new MG Cyber X will soon be revealed, with the Chinese-owned British marque having released the first official teaser images of its upcoming boxy SUV.

Set to arrive as the 2nd model in the SAIC-owned brand’s “Cyber” series – after the fully electric Cyberster, of course – the new Cyber X is expected to be unveiled at Auto Shanghai 2025, which kicks off on 23 April 2025.

MG posted the shadowy teaser images you see here on Chinese social-media platform Weibo, describing the upcoming model as an “urban adventure toy” and suggesting its styling will be “different from any MG you have ever seen”.

Featuring decidedly boxy proportions, the new Cyber X is shown sporting full-width LED bars fore and aft, along with illuminated “MG” badges. Look closely and you’ll see flush door handles and integrated roof rails as well.

While official information is still thin on the ground, Autocar reports that the new Cyber X will ride on parent company SAIC’s new “E3” electric platform, which suggests the newcomer won’t be available with a pure combustion engine.

At this stage, it’s not clear whether the Cyber X will be produced in right-hand-drive, though it’s interesting to note MG’s Weibo posts suggest the new model has been conceived “for young people around the world”.

Towards the end of 2024, MG officially returned to South Africa after an 8-year absence, launching a trio of models for the local market, with yet more planned. The brand kicked off its retail operations in the final few days of 2024, the year in which it celebrated its centenary.

Founded as “Morris Garages” in the United Kingdom in 1924, MG is run by Chinese group SAIC Motor, a state-owned manufacturer that is also responsible for the LDV marque. Officially under the stewardship of the Shanghai-based firm since around 2007, MG began its previous re-entry to South Africa late in 2011, though again exited the local market in 2016. 

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Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 Coupe (2025) Launch Review

The Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 range has launched in South Africa, bringing compact hybrid performance to the local market. We took the Merc’s latest performance SUV Coupe for a whirl. Is it worth your consideration? David Taylor deliberates…

Mercedes-AMG is offering two performance derivatives of the GLC. We’ve already had the flagship GLC 63 S on test locally, but what if that’s financially out of reach for you? Enter the 43 range, available in both SUV and SUV Coupe body styles.

We drove the GLC 43 Coupe at launch and while design is subjective, we’re big fans of the look. It adopts a sharp and sporty design language but with its sloping roofline, boot space is reduced compared to the standard SUV body.

The AMG GLC 43 Coupe SUV boasts an attractive, sporty design.

What’s on offer?

Powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol hybrid, the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 Coupe develops 320 kW and 500 Nm. Unlike the plug-in hybrid E-Performance C63, this hybrid uses a 48-volt system to keep the turbocharger spooled up, thus negating lag! Plus, it also provides an additional temporary power boost. The best part is that you don’t feel the system working. The engine will switch on and off in its efficiency setting with minimal interruption to help with the fuel economy.

The 48-volt mild hybrid powertrain reduces turbo lag and improves overall efficiency.

Power goes to all four wheels via a 9-speed automatic and AMG claims that this sporty SUV Coupe is capable of a zero-100 kph time of 4.8 seconds and in true AMG fashion you can customise the car’s performance and dynamic facets to suit your needs.

Drive modes are conveniently located on the steering wheel.

Inside, you get all the go-faster goodies like the cool rotary dial and performance switches on the steering wheel, detailed performance graphics on the instrument cluster and main screen while well-bolstered sports seats provide support and comfort. We’re big fans of the steering-mounted gear shift paddles as they’re made from quality metal and enhance driving engagement significantly.

What is the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 coupe like to drive?

You’d think a mature brand like Mercedes-AMG wouldn’t resort to hilarious exhaust antics but each gearshift under full throttle was accompanied by a terrific bang from the rear! This feature is extremely satisfying and gives the vehicle more character.

The interior provides “sporty comfort” with good bolstering for spirited driving.

There’s something reassuring about the GLC 43’s performance. You don’t have to dig deep into your racing driver talents to get the best out of the car and one of its highlights is its ease of use. This vehicle is refreshingly easy to drive fast!

Our launch drive provided a blend of urban roads and highway but there wasn’t much chance to stretch the GLC 43’s legs or to test its handling ability. That said, the acceleration, both from standstill and in-gear is impressive. There’s almost zero hesitation when in its sportiest setting and the GLC 43 bolts forward with fervour!

Our test unit rode on the stunning black 21-inch alloy wheels (R39 000) and these contrasted nicely with the white exterior. In terms of ride quality, our route wasn’t varied enough to pass a final judgement, but for what it’s worth, we drove it exclusively in its sportiest setting and at no point did we feel the setup was too firm or harsh.

The GLC 43’s ride quality offers a good balance between sport and comfort.

How much does the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 coupe cost in South Africa?

Mercedes-AMG GLC 43R1 876 088
Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 coupeR1 911 088

The GLC 43 is sold with a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan and a 2-year/unlimited km warranty.

Summary

The Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 offers notable performance, at a lower price than the full-fat GLC 63.

The playful and energetic power delivery in a stylish package make for a favourable first impression. With a considerable weight difference and the realities of the real world, we found ourselves wondering if there’s actually a credible business case for the flagship GLC 63 S other than outright bragging rights. Our gut feel suggests that in a day-to-day scenario, the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 Coupe provides most of the thrills for less money and that’s an attractive proposition.

We’re itching to spend more time with this fast and loud premium SUV. Look out for more content on the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 soon!

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

Read the latest Mercedes-Benz news and reviews

The Best Off-Road Features of an Isuzu D-Max 4×4

What makes the Isuzu D-Max 4×4 such a capable performer once the tarmac ends? Let’s examine this Japanese bakkie’s best off-road features

A perennial podium finisher on the list of South Africa’s best-selling bakkies, the Isuzu D-Max is well known for both its overall durability and its off-road ability. So, what makes this Japanese bakkie so very capable off the beaten path? Here are some of the best off-road features of the RG-series bakkie.

While we’re using the high-spec D-Max 3.0TD V-Cross 4×4 as an example here, most of these qualities apply to other 4×4 derivatives in the D-Max range, too. In addition, we’ll end with a quick look at a special variant that offers even more rough-stuff capability…

1. Low-Range Gearing and Rear Diff Lock

Ready to go off-roading in the Isuzu D-Max 4×4? Simply toggle the 4×4 rotary controller (which Isuzu calls the “Terrain Command Dial”) sited on the centre console to the appropriate setting and off you go.

With this dial, you can instantly switch between high-range modes (“2H” and “4H”) at speeds up to 100 kph. Selecting low range (“4L”), meanwhile, must be done when the vehicle is stationary. You can also engage an electronic rear differential lock should you be faced with particularly slippery, uneven surfaces.

2. Turbodiesel Engine’s Low-End Torque

Having plenty of oomph low down in the rev range makes it easier to navigate challenging terrain, since you’re able to tackle obstacles slowly. Thankfully, the 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine in the D-Max V-Cross 4×4 produces its maximum twisting force of 450 Nm from as low as 1 600 rpm. The motor sustains this peak torque figure through to 2 600 rpm.

3. Ground Clearance and Off-Roading Angles

Government bought 352 Isuzu D-Max units

The D-Max V-Cross 4×4 boasts competitive approach- and breakover angles of 30- and 22.5 degrees, respectively. However, its departure angle of 18 degrees is interestingly a little below the class average. Still, with an impressive minimum ground clearance of 232 mm and a wading depth as high as 800 mm, this Isuzu bakkie certainly can handle the rough stuff.

4. Hill-Descent Control

Faced with an extreme downhill gradient? The D-Max V-Cross 4×4 ships standard with hill-descent control, facilitating a smooth descent at a controlled speed, even in treacherous off-road conditions. Isuzu also includes hill-start assist as standard, preventing the bakkie from rolling back when taking off up a steep incline.

Need Even More Off-Road Features? Meet the AT35

Based on the V-Cross 4×4, Isuzu developed the D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35 in collaboration with Icelandic specialists, Arctic Trucks. The Japanese brand’s plant in Struandale is the only Isuzu facility in the world accredited by Arctic Trucks to produce this beefed-up bakkie.

Besides boasting more aggressive styling, the D-Max AT35 gains a wider track, Bilstein off-road suspension and 35-inch all-terrain tyres wrapped round 17×10-inch AT black alloy wheels. Interestingly, though Isuzu originally sourced this rubber from BF Goodrich, these days the tyres come from Maxxis.

In AT35 guise, the bakkie’s minimum ground clearance improves to 266 mm and the wading depth rises to 865 mm, while the approach-, breakover- and departure angles climb to 33-, 34- and 23 degrees, respectively. In short, this is the ultimate factory-backed D-Max when it comes to off-roading.

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

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3 Most Expensive BMW Cars in South Africa

What are the most expensive BMW cars on sale in South Africa? This article highlights the 3 priciest BMW models you can buy right now!

BMW is a popular luxury car brand in South Africa with a wide range of vehicles on offer including hatchbacks, sedans, coupes, convertibles, grand tourers, crossovers, SUVs, high-performance M cars and electric cars. 

We recently highlighted the cheapest BMW cars available in South Africa but now we shift our attention to the most expensive BMW cars you can buy in South Africa right now. 

If you’re not sure what you’re able to afford, take a look at our Car Affordability Calculator and Car Finance Calculator for finance projections. 

3 Most Expensive BMW Cars in South Africa 

1. BMW M8 Competition Convertible from R3 575 017 

Most expensive BMW Cars in South Africa

With pricing for the BMW M8 starting from R3 374 849 for the M8 Competition Gran Coupe, the M8 Competition Convertible tops the price range with a price tag of R3 575 017 (the M8 Competition Coupe is priced from R3 424 178). 

In Competition guise, the M8’s twin-turbo 4.4-litre V8 engine develops 460 kW and 750 Nm of torque and comes paired with an 8-speed M Steptronic transmission.  

Equipped with a rear-biased x-Drive all-wheel-drive system and an Active M Differential, acceleration from zero to 100 kph for the M8 Competition Convertible is claimed at 3.3 seconds while the M8 Competition Coupe is marginally quicker with a claim of 3.2 seconds. 

Read our review of the BMW M8 Competition Convertible

See specifications and pricing for the BMW M8 Competition 

Buy a used BMW M8 Competition on Cars.co.za  

2. BMW XM from R3 400 000 

BMW XM

The BMW XM is the most expensive BMW SUV you can buy in South Africa right now.

The BMW XM, priced from R3 400 000, offers 480 kW and 800 Nm from its hybrid-electric drivetrain, comprising a twin-turbo 4.4-litre V8 engine and an electric motor integrated into the 8-speed M Steptronic transmission.

Those numbers ensure brisk acceleration with BMW claiming 4.3 seconds in the zero to 100 kph sprint. Furthermore, a 25.7 kWh lithium-ion battery unit allows for up to 82-88 km of pure electric driving. 

See specifications and pricing details for the BMW XM 

Buy a used BMW XM on Cars.co.za 

3. BMW X6 M Competition from R3 341 900 

The BMW X6 M Competition, priced from R3 341 900, is the third most expensive BMW car for sale in South Africa. 

The X6 M Competition is powered by the familiar twin-turbo 4.4-litre V8 engine, the same powering the M8 above, which also produces 460 kW and 750 Nm of torque and is also paired with an 8-speed M Steptronic transmission. 

BMW claims 3.9 seconds in the sprint from zero to 100 kph. 

Also see our recent review of the BMW X6 M60i

See specifications and pricing details for the BMW X6 

Buy a used BMW X6 on Cars.co.za 

Top 5 off-road accessories that won’t void your Ford Ranger’s warranty

So, you’re keen to upgrade your new Ford Ranger with a few off-road accessories but don’t want to void your warranty? Here are 5 great Ford-approved all-terrain goodies…

Though South Africans have an obvious passion for personalising their Ford Ranger bakkies, fitting aftermarket parts – including off-road accessories – that are not approved by the Blue Oval brand could quickly result in a voided warranty. And nobody wants that.

Thankfully, the Dearborn-based company’s local division offers a wide range of factory-backed accessories, many of which are geared towards improving the P703-series Ranger’s 4×4 performance off the beaten path.

Ford-approved accessories or aftermarket parts?

Besides the obvious warranty win, why would you opt for Ford-backed accessories over other aftermarket parts? Well, Ford promises that each of the approved accessories – whether the automaker’s own or from a licensed aftermarket partner – has undergone a “rigorous evaluation process” by its engineers to ensure it is “fully compatible” with the Ranger.

With that in mind, we’ve sorted through Ford South Africa’s catalogue of approximately 150 factory-backed adventure, urban and commercial customisation options to pick out the top 5 off-road accessories that won’t void your Ford Ranger’s warranty…

1. Under-Vehicle Protection Panel Set

If you’re planning on ever taking your Ranger over rocky terrain, Ford’s under-vehicle protection panel set is an absolute must, shielding critical under-body components such as the sump, gearbox and transfer case.

Fashioned from pressed and folded 3 mm laser-cut steel, each ARB-supplied protection panel is zinc-plated and powder-coated for added durability, while the mounting bolts are recessed (yet still seemingly simple to access come service time).

2. Snorkel (With Reversible Air Ram)

Fitting a snorkel to your Ford Ranger effectively raises the air-intake position to prevent potentially harmful elements – such as good ol’ H2O in the case of water crossings and even dust when barrelling along dirt roads – from being sucked into the bakkie’s air cleaner. Cooler and cleaner air is better, after all.

Developed in conjunction with 4×4 specialists Safari, this Ford-approved item is made from cross-linked polyethylene and features a clever reversible air ram. Note that it’s available only for Ranger models fitted with 2.0- and 3.0-litre turbodiesel engines, while it’s not compatible with fender flares.

3. Old Man Emu Nitrocharger Sport Shocks

Yes, you can purchase Old Man Emu’s famous “Nitrocharger Sport” shock absorbers via your local Ford dealership, with multiple configurations available depending on your specific load-carrying requirements. In each case, these twin-tube, nitrogen-filled shocks are said to improve both vehicle control and comfort, whether your Ranger is travelling on- or off-road.

4. On-Board Air Compressor

If you’ve even taken your Ford Ranger out for a spot of sand driving, you’ll know the benefits of lowering your tyre pressures to effectively increase each rubber ring’s footprint. Of course, when you’re ready to head home, you’ll need a way to re-inflate your bakkie’s tyres. That’s where this nifty on-board air compressor comes in.

Featuring a twin-motor design, the Ford-approved compressor mounts out of sight behind the sheet metal of the load box, though a neat access panel is installed to allow you to operate the device and plug in air hoses (however, note that the latter are not supplied as part of the kit). The Blue Oval brand offers 2 versions: 1 suitable for bakkies with bedliners and 1 for those without.

5. Recovery Points

Things don’t always go according to plan when traversing the rough stuff, so a set of strong recovery points is a smart idea for serial off-roaders. Ford offers right- and left-hand-side rear recovery points, though note that each requires the fitment of a “Genuine Ford” towbar. Meanwhile, the front items – again, available separately for both the left- and right-hand sides – are designed for use with an ARB bull bar.

According to the Dearborn-based firm, each red-painted recovery point is “tested and rated” to 8 000 kg at a directional pull equal to the full steering lock of the bakkie. Designed for use with a 4.75-tonne bow shackle and an 8 000 kg snatch strap, they can be employed for either direct-pull or side-pull recoveries.

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

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Hyundai Alcazar (2025) Price & Specs

The Hyundai Alcazar will soon hit the market in South Africa, sporting a lower starting price than the Grand Creta it replaces. Here’s what this 7-seater will cost you…

The Hyundai Alcazar – which is effectively a facelifted version of the Grand Creta – will soon debut in South Africa. And our information suggests that though the local range has been trimmed to 3 derivatives, the starting price has dropped by R20 600.

This falls in line with Hyundai Automotive South Africa’s recent strategy of lowering the starting prices of several of its products, including the facelifted Tucson, Creta, Venue, i20 and Grand i10. However, we should point out that the while the Grand Creta came standard with a 4-year/60 000 km service plan, the Alcazar’s parameters have been cut to 3 years or 45 000 km.

The Alcazar is a facelift of the model SA knew as the Grand Creta.

As a reminder, the Grand Creta launched in Mzansi in March 2022, positioned above the 5-seater Creta and set apart by its longer wheelbase, lengthier body, 2 extra seats and model-specific styling.

With this thoroughly facelifted version, Hyundai Automotive SA has taken the decision to switch to the Alcazar nameplate used in India since the model’s inception. For the record, the South Korean firm applied to trademark “Alcazar” in SA back in June 2024.

Outgoing SA-spec Grand Creta on the left and incoming Alcazar on the right.

While the Grand Creta portfolio had comprised 5 derivatives, the Alcazar range that supersedes it is made up of 3 variants. According to our information, the line-up of 7-seater derivatives kicks off with the Alcazar 2.0 Executive AT, which is priced at R499 900.

By our maths, that’s R20 600 less than the outgoing entry-level – and manual equipped, a gearbox option that has interestingly fallen away with the arrival of the Alcazar – Grand Creta derivative. It’s also some R66 600 less than the auto-equipped variant it directly replaces.

The local line-up comprises a trio of derivatives.

From what we understand, the naturally aspirated 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine is carried over unchanged, again delivering 117 kW and 191 Nm to the front axle (though now exclusively via a 6-speed automatic transmission).

The remaining 2 derivatives both use Hyundai’s 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel motor. This engine likewise appears unchanged and thus offers 84 kW and 250 Nm to the front wheels through a 6-speed auto gearbox.

A longer wheelbase allows for 7 seats.

Our information suggests Hyundai Automotive SA has priced the Alcazar 1.5D Executive AT at R599 900, an increase of R11 400. Meanwhile, the Alcazar 1.5D Elite AT comes in at R669 900, R25 400 more than the equivalent Grand Creta variant.

Compared with the Grand Creta, the Alcazar’s Executive trim level upgrades to 18-inch alloy wheels (from 17-inch items) and gains features like downhill-brake control, an electric parking brake and drive-mode select. However, it curiously appears to lose its tyre-pressure monitoring system.

This is the Indian-spec interior; expect the SA version to be all black.

Meanwhile, the Elite grade now features extra driver-assistance kit in the form of forward collision-avoidance assist, blind-spot collision avoidance assist, lane-keeping assist, lane-following assist and driver-attention warning. It furthermore scores adaptive (as opposed to conventional) cruise control.

In South Africa, the Alcazar will be offered in a choice of 6 exterior colours: Starry Night, Titan Grey Metallic, Titan Grey Matte, Fiery Red, Atlas White and Abyss Black. We believe the interior colour scheme for SA-spec models will be black, rather than the 2-tone arrangement offered in India.

How much does the new Hyundai Alcazar cost in SA?

Hyundai Alcazar 2.0 Executive AT – R499 900

Hyundai Alcazar 1.5D Executive AT – R599 900

Hyundai Alcazar 1.5D Elite AT – R669 900

The prices above include Hyundai’s 7-year/200 000 km warranty (comprising a 5-year/150 000 km vehicle warranty and an additional 2-year/50 000 km powertrain warranty) as well as a 3-year/45 000 km service plan.

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