Honda HR-V (2022) Launch Review

The new-generation Honda HR-V enters the compact family-car fray as a more niche and distinctive small crossover. We drove the new model during its local launch in the Western Cape.

What’s different about the HR-V

The HR-V’s packaging has switched from a practical small SUV to a coupe-styled crossover.

The new HR-V represents a major departure from the Japanese marque’s outgoing model. It has also moved from the military-medium compact family-car segment into the “premium crossover” niche of the market that hosts the likes of the Audi A2 and Q3 Sportback, Hyundai Kona, Mazda CX-30, Toyota C-HR and Volkswagen T-Roc, to name just some of the most obvious contenders.

The newcomer’s exterior design looks more modern – and, in the metal, it appears taller. Looking at pictures of the previous HR-V (you can see them here), the new model has more presence and style, whereas its predecessor’s design prioritised practicality, hence the MPV-ish design. One thing that remains is the black cladding that runs around the bottom of the car. The new model, however, features gloss black surrounds instead of the matte finish of the old model.

The 1.8-litre petrol engine has been dropped from the range to make way for a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder engine, which is mated with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). It is the only powertrain in the range, at least for now.

In terms of outright size, the new model is slightly shorter (4 330 mm vs 4 347 mm) and marginally wider (1 790 mm vs 1 772 mm). The new model’s wheelbase is 8 mm longer, which contributes toward the 38 mm worth of improved legroom at the back. What’s more, 26 mm of extra ground clearance certainly makes the HR-V seem like more of a crossover than the previous model was.

The interior has been spruced appreciably too. The cabin design offers more in the way of stylish appeal, while up-to-date passive safety equipment has been included in order to meet the segment’s prerequisites.

What’s the Honda HR-V like to drive?

The HR-V has a supple ride quality and well-weighted steering.

Throughout the past decade, Honda South Africa has had to change its focus somewhat; it’s no longer a volume-selling brand on the local market; these days, it’s more of a niche player. The HR-V fits that mould because the premium compact crossover segment caters for buyers who do not require ultimate practicality, but want to drive something stylish, distinctive and modern.

The HR-V’s ride quality is on the firmer side of pliant, but beyond that initial firmness is a supple suspension that’s generally composed and comfortable. It rides bumps well, even on the top-spec Executive derivative, which is shod with larger (18-inch) wheels – the Comfort version runs 17-inch alloys – and the steering is well-weighted by the standards of a modern electrically-assisted system.

When it comes to zipping around corners, the newcomer certainly does not distinguish itself as a sports SUV, but considering its unassuming powertrain setup, you’re unlikely to get much in the way of driving thrills out of the package even if it had Type-R-tuned handling (which it doesn’t). I would sum up the ride as pretty decent when compared to the rivals I mentioned earlier – it definitely has one of the quietest cabins in its class.

Is there enough power?

The only engine available currently is the 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol.

To reiterate, the 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine is the only one available in the HR-V at the moment (June 2022). Honda SA considered the turbopetrol engine that is available overseas, but such-equipped versions would have pushed the HR-V’s price too far into the premium sector, where, of course, German brands’ wares dominate. A petrol-electric hybrid version would have made the most sense, because it purports to reduce running costs substantially and we believe that buyers would be more than willing to accept a lack of outright performance if it meant that they’d make fewer trips to the fuel station. That said, Honda SA indicated it would introduce the HR-V hybrid in the next 18 to 24 months.

As for the HR-V’s 1.5-litre powerplant, it produces 89 kW and 145 Nm of torque (it’s the same unit that does duty in the new Honda Fit). The peak power figure is acceptable, but the lack of torque makes progress quite leisurely, which is a pain when you’re trying to execute swift overtaking manoeuvres (at freeway speeds) or accelerate briskly up inclines. Besides, the CVT’s calibration is better suited to pottering around in everyday traffic than to undertaking longer road trips or stints of freeway driving. At higher revs, it has a feature whereby it simulates normal gearshifts, rather than holding on to high revs and making a racket. It’s certainly better for it, but still doesn’t entirely mask the compromised CVT experience.

The upside of that is impressive fuel economy, and it will likely be even better in town or when cruising at speeds below 100 kph. On our 220-km evaluation drive, which comprised mostly open, district roads with 100 kph to 120 kph speed limits, we saw an indicated return of 7.4 L/100 km. I wouldn’t be surprised if an efficiency-minded driver could get that number into the low 6L/100 km range, which is good for a vehicle of this size.

What’s the HR-V’s interior like?

It’s a well-built and nicely specced interior but missing some of the fancy screens modern buyers may want.

In terms of style and equipment levels, the new HR-V’s interior is a nice step up from that of its predecessor. The new 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system is more modern (and has a higher-resolution display) than the previous setup. Android Auto and Apple Carplay integrate seamlessly with the native system when you connect your smartphone via a cable to the USB port that’s situated closest to the driver. The 2nd USB port in the front is purely for charging devices, while the Executive derivative comes with a wireless charging pad and 2 extra USB ports in the rear. It’s a pity that Wireless Android Auto or -Apple Carplay aren’t available.

Overall, the fit-and-finish and choice of materials are of premium quality, which lifts the overall feel of the cabin. It feels particularly well put together with very tight shut lines and a solid feel to all the buttons and rotary dials.

I have only one biggish criticism of the interior – it lacks pizazz. For example, the HR-V’s rivals and other SUVs (within the broader segment) have very high-specification infotainment screens and digital instrument clusters, whereas the HR-V’s displays feel a generation behind. The instrument cluster features analogue dials, which helps to make the model more affordable I guess… but this is a niche product, so where is the flair?

The HR-V does make up ground on its rivals in terms of practicality. For a coupe SUV, it’s extremely spacious in the rear passenger area, and while the load bay is claimed to hold only 304 litres, it will easily swallow a pair of large suitcases.

The rear seats can fold flat as well as tumble backwards like this.

Honda’s Magic Seats also make the rear loading area completely flat (when flopped forward) and offer more options, because the seats can either be folded flat or tumbled backwards if you want more loading area behind the front seats.

The major difference in price between the Comfort and Executive can be attributed to the extra safety equipment fitted to the latter. It is equipped with adaptive cruise control with low-speed following, collision mitigation braking, lane-keep assist and departure warning and a lane-watch camera that activates via a button on the indicator stalk or when you indicate, giving you a view of your blind spot. Both derivatives are sold with an aft-facing camera and rear parking sensors.

Honda HR-V pricing and after-sales support

The Honda HR-V is sold with a 5-year/200 000 km warranty and a 4-year/60 000 km service plan. Service intervals are every 15 000 km.

Honda HR-V Comfort CVT	R469 000
Honda HR-V Executive CVT	R554 500

For a look at the full specs and pricing check here

Summary

The HR-V is a competent small coupe-SUV, but its current powertrain offering is limited.

The premium compact crossover segment is a tiny pocket of the market and not one that sells up a storm every month. However, the HR-V does make sense for those looking for something with a distinctive design and adequate practicality.

The increased ground clearance will instil a bit more confidence when you’re travelling on gravel roads and the Honda’s ride quality and on-road refinement (especially the hushed cabin) are among the best in the segment.

The engine is lacklustre, but if you’re happy to do things at a modest pace and don’t intend to load the coupe-SUV heavily on regular occasions, it will suffice and provide excellent fuel savings. We just wish a hybrid version was available.

What’s more, the interior is well built and finished with appreciably premium materials. The infotainment system fulfils modern connectivity requirements, even if it’s unlikely to wow many users.

The HR-V appears to be a nonconformist choice, but only because the traditionally-shaped SUVs will still garner more sales, which will make the new HR-V stand out more in a crowd.

New Electrified Mercedes-Benz GLC Revealed

Mercedes-Benz has revealed its new GLC SUV boasting both mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid derivatives. Take a look at what the new GLC has to offer!

The GLC has been Merc’s best-selling model for the last 2 years and over 2.6-million units have been sold worldwide since the GLC nameplate was introduced in 2015. Now, a new GLC has been revealed to build on the success of its predecessor with a range of new hybrid powertrains.

The new GLC has grown in size and this means that interior space has been positively boosted. The front-end design has been refined and a key identifier are the new headlights that now merge with the new grille design which incorporates a chrome surround and a central louvre finished in matt grey with chrome trim. Also take note of the newly sculpted bonnet!

The new GLC features a sharper and more refined look. It’s also larger than the outgoing model.

The Avantgarde exterior treatment is standard and includes chrome window surrounds and new chrome-look simulated under guard. The AMG Line derivatives are identified by a 3D star-studded grille and a selection of wheel sizes ranging from 18- to 20-inches in size are on offer. The rear lights now feature two-section design with a 3D effect and a matching rear simulated chrome under guard houses the chrome-look exhaust tips. Running boards will be optionally available and as well as a host of other equipment, including a Night Package.

Moving inside, the new GLC’s interior architecture is familiar from the new S-Class. That means that a 11.9-inch vertically-orientated, tablet-style MBUX infotainment system is fitted as well as a crisp 12.3-inch instrument cluster. Standard features include Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, heated seats and wireless charging, to name a few.

The new GLC’s interior features technology first seen in the new S-Class.

A new feature is what the firm calls ‘transparent hood’ which in conjunction with the optional 360-degree camera allows the driver to “see through the hood” with a virtual view under the car being displayed on the central screen. This will be particularly useful for observing obstacles while driving on gravel or when parking in tight spaces. A full-colour heads-up display is also optional. As always, Mercedes-Benz will offer an extensive list of optional features and the level of specification will only be limited by how deep your pockets are.

As far as practicality is concerned, the GLC’s load capacity is claimed at 620 litres, 70 litres more than the outgoing GLC and the rear seats are split in a 40:20:40 ratio for added flexibility and an optional Load Comfort package allows you to fold the seats down at the convenient push of a button.

What powertrains are offered on the new Mercedes-Benz GLC?

The new GLC features mild-hybrid and PHEV powertrains only.

The big news for the new GLC is that it will only be offered with a choice of either a plug-in hybrid powertrain or a mild-hybrid powertrain with 48-volt technology and an integrated starter-generator.

At market launch, the mild-hybrid derivatives include the petrol-powered GLC 200 4Matic, GLC 300 4Matic and the diesel-powered GLC 220d 4Matic.

The GLC 200 4Matic and GLC 300 4Matic combine a 2.0-litre turbopetrol engine with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system to offer outputs of 150 kW / 320 Nm and 190 kW / 400 Nm respectively. The Integrated Starter-Generator (ISG) improves performance by contributing up to 17 kW more power and up to 200 Nm more torque and allows for efficient hybrid driving functions such as coasting which reduces consumption.

The mild-hybrid diesel GLC 220d with its 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine produces 145 kW and 440 Nm of torque.

The GLC plug-in hybrid derivatives include the petrol GLC 300 e 4Matic, GLC 400 e 4Matic and the diesel GLC 300 de 4Matic.

The GLC 300 e 4Matic and GLC 400 e 4Matic employ a 2.0-litre turbopetrol engine in conjunction with an electric motor to produce total outputs of 230 kW/550 Nm and 280 kW/650 Nm respectively while the diesel-powered GLC 300 de 4Matic offers 245 kW and 750 Nm. All plug-in hybrid GLC derivatives are fitted with a 31.2 kWh battery with an estimated electric driving range of over 100km.

High-performance AMG derivatives are expected to be revealed in due course.

The new GLC is features a new 4-link front suspension with a multi-link independent rear suspension with amplitude-dependent damping which is said to enhance ride and noise comfort and handling. Merc’s AIRMATIC air suspension with rear-axle steering will be offered as an option as well an Offroad Engineering Package which increases ground clearance by 20mm and adds underbody protection. A Sport suspension is offered in conjunction with the AMG Line Exterior package.

A Driving Assistance package is also offered for the new GLC and it includes an enhanced adaptive cruise control system which is now able to react to stationary vehicles, active steering assistance with new lane detection, traffic sign assist as well as a new parking package with a 360-degree camera.

Mercedes-Benz has yet to confirm availability of the new GLC in South Africa but you can realistically expect the newcomer on local soil towards the end of 2022 or early in 2023.

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

Toyota GR Corolla Morizo Edition Loses Weight, Gains Torque

Think the standard Toyota GR Corolla isn’t quite hardcore enough? Well, meet the new GR Corolla Morizo Edition, a two-seater with angrier styling, more torque and less weight…

A mere two months after the long-awaited global reveal of the Toyota GR Corolla hot hatch, the Japanese brand has whipped the wraps off an even more hardcore version dubbed the Morizo Edition.

Seemingly exclusive to the United States, just 200 examples of the GR Corolla Morizo Edition will be produced. Described as a “purpose-built” all-wheel-drive hot hatch, the newcomer ditches its rear bench, gains even more aggressive styling and benefits from additional torque.

So, what does Morizo mean? Well, it’s the name Toyota president Akio Toyoda assumes when he slips in behind the wheel of a performance car. For this special edition, Toyoda himself set the target of tighter handling, a high torque-to-weight ratio and a “highly rigid” body.

While the turbocharged 1.6-litre three-cylinder petrol engine makes an unchanged 224 kW, peak twisting force increases from 370 Nm to 400 Nm (albeit across a slightly shorter part of the rev range). In addition, the Morizo Edition boasts a model-specific close-ratio version of the brand’s six-speed manual transmission.

Toyota GR Corolla Morizo Edition front-end detail

With a claimed weight of 1 440 kg, the Morizo Edition is around 30 kg lighter than a standard GR Corolla, chiefly thanks to the removal of the rear seats and the addition of a forged carbon-fibre roof. Toyota says the two-seater design – with the rear bench replaced by two braces for extra structural support – furthermore allowed for “additional weight removal in the rear”, with no need for rear door speakers or rear window regulators (even the rear wiper blade and motor were ditched).

What else makes a Morizo Edition? Well, it gains wider Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres wrapped round 18-inch forged alloy wheels, as well as red-painted monotube shock absorbers and a unique suspension tune. Toyota’s GR engineers also increased rigidity by adding two more floor braces and one additional rear strut brace, while the frame gains an additional 349 spot welds and over six metres more structural adhesive than standard.

Inside, you’ll find red-and-black Ultrasuede (a material repeated on the steering wheel) and leather semi-bucket seats with high bolsters and harness holes. On the outside, the Morizo Edition features “functional venting”, along with model-specific front brake ducts.

While Toyota South Africa Motors says it has “requested the [standard] GR Corolla for local introduction”, it seems likely this Morizo Edition will remain exclusive to North America. But we can dream, right?

New vehicle sales in South Africa: May 2022

Though South Africa’s new-vehicle sales for May 2022 increased marginally year on year, the knock-on effects of the KwaZulu-Natal floods made a significant dent in the country’s export figure. Still, SA has a new best-selling vehicle…

South Africa’s new-vehicle industry felt the brunt of April’s KwaZulu-Natal floods in May 2022, according to Naamsa. The knock-on effects of the disaster – including extensive damage to Toyota’s Prospecton facility – along with a raft of compounding factors meant the country’s new-vehicle sales grew just 2.1% year on year to 39 177 units in May (a figure likewise up slightly on April 2022), while export sales plummeted 29.9% to 25 786 units.

Naamsa says an estimated 34 775 units (or 88.8%) of May 2022’s overall figure represented dealer sales. The new passenger-car market at 27 437 units grew an encouraging 13.8% year on year, though it was strongly supported by the rental industry, which accounted for a substantial 10.0% of sales. Meanwhile, with Hilux and Hi-Ace production having been halted, sales of new light-commercial vehicles came in at just 9 221 units, representing a year-on-year decline of 22.6%.

Meanwhile, WesBank lauded the industry for continuing “to show resilience” during May 2022 in the face of market conditions “containing more and more challenges”.

“In uncertain times where volatility is a recurring theme, May presented unnecessary additional challenges to the market, but [it] fought bravely for recovery. Supply constraints were also amplified by the impact of the floods in KZN on one of the market’s largest producers, not to mention the continued disruptions in logistics,” says Lebogang Gaoaketse, Head of Marketing and Communications at WesBank.

New vehicle sales summary for May 2022

Aggregate new-vehicle sales of 39 177 units increased by 2.1% (819 units) compared to May 2021.
New passenger-vehicle sales of 27 437 units increased by 13.8% (3 318 units) compared to May 2021.
New light-commercial vehicle sales of 9 221 units decreased by 22.6% (-2 691 units) compared to May 2021.
Export sales of 25 786 units decreased by 29.9% (-11 013 units) compared to May 2021.

10 best-selling car brands in South Africa for May 2022

With its Prospecton factory remaining well and truly shuttered throughout May thanks to flood damage (with only Hino assembly resuming late in the month), Toyota’s total dropped further from its already contracted April figure. That said, the Japanese firm’s final tally of 6 664 units – largely courtesy of its imported models – was enough to keep it in first place, ahead of the Volkswagen Group. Suzuki, meanwhile, registered yet another record month (crossing the 4 000-unit mark for the first time) to retain a strong third place (a mere 447 units behind the VW Group but actually just ahead of the VW brand). Ford, meanwhile, climbed three places to fifth, just five units ahead of Renault.

1. Toyota – 6 664 units

2. Volkswagen Group – 4 778 units

3. Suzuki – 4 331 units

4. Hyundai – 3 039 units

5. Ford – 2 447 units

6. Renault – 2 442 units

7. Nissan – 2 299 units

8. Kia – 1 972 units

9. Haval – 1 936 units

10. Isuzu – 1 507 units

10 best-selling vehicles in South Africa for May 2022

After placing second in April, the Suzuki Swift became the best-selling vehicle in South Africa in May 2022, with a record 1 764 units (475 of which came courtesy of the rental channel) registered. The Ford Ranger (1 548 units) climbed four places to second, forcing the Toyota Hilux (1 368 units) down to a very unfamiliar third spot. Of course, Hilux production ground to a halt after the aforementioned floods (the likewise locally built Corolla Cross, meanwhile, dropped from fourth in April to clear out of the top 10 in May, with registrations falling to 181). The new Isuzu D-Max climbed five places to fifth, while new entrants for May 2022 included the imported Toyota Urban Cruiser (1 213 units), Volkswagen T-Cross (981 units) and Haval Jolion (975 units).

1. Suzuki Swift – 1 764 units

2. Ford Ranger – 1 548 units

3. Toyota Hilux – 1 368 units

4. Volkswagen Polo Vivo – 1 179 units

5. Isuzu D-Max – 1 163 units

6. Volkswagen Polo (hatch) – 1 124 units

7. Nissan NP200 – 1 066 units

8. Toyota Urban Cruiser – 1 213 units

9. Volkswagen T-Cross – 981 units

10. Haval Jolion – 975 units

Top 5 vehicles exported from South Africa in May 2022

Volkswagen’s Kariega-built Polo hatchback was again the export leader, with more than 6 500 units leaving local shores in May 2022. The Silverton-produced Ford Ranger was second (this time on 5 368 units), with the Isuzu D-Max and Nissan Navara each climbing a place to third and fourth, respectively. Again, thanks to the lack of production at Prospecton, the Hilux’s export figure plunged to just 123 units. We should point out, as always, that BMW and Mercedes-Benz did not submit detailed figures, so it’s unclear how many new X3 and C-Class sedan units were exported from SA during the reporting period.

1. Volkswagen Polo (hatch) – 6 526 units

2. Ford Ranger – 5 368 units

3. Isuzu D-Max – 499 units

4. Nissan Navara – 482 units

5. Toyota Hilux – 123 units

Sales outlook

So, what’s next for South Africa’s new-vehicle market? Well, Naamsa points out the market is facing a number of obstacles, from the continued effects of the KZN floods to a “tightening of domestic monetary policy, a further rise in load-shedding and the adverse impact of domestic and foreign factors on business and consumer confidence in the country”.

In addition to the latest rise in interest rates of 50 basis points, which Naamsa notes is the biggest margin seen in more than six years, the depreciating rand along with the soaring oil price continue to “add to inflation risks”, along with more pain at the pumps.

“Although the economy will need to adjust to this new reality, long-term solutions are required in an already unbearable inflationary environment which would worsen, along with negative secondary economic effects,” the organisation said.

WesBank’s Gaoaketse added the fact dealer performance in both the passenger-vehicle and light-commercial vehicle segments outperformed the market in May 2022 “continues to be reassuring” that demand remains in the consumer space.

“This demand is displayed in WesBank’s own data, with applications increasing 9.7% year-on-year. The pre-owned-vehicle market remains robust, with more than double the volume of applications in the used vehicle market than new, as consumers continue to combat availability of stock and affordability,” says Gaoaketse.

All-new Volkswagen Caddy Maxi Review – Is this the most practical family car money can buy?

There’s a brand-new Volkswagen Caddy now on sale in South Africa. We review the flagship Caddy Maxi version and see just how practical it is.

The previous generation VW Caddy found homes on many South African driveways, not only as a commercial vehicle but as a family car too.

VW has brought 0 variants of the latest Caddy to market, from a bog-standard panel van to this, the top-of-the-range Caddy Maxi.

With 7 seats, most of which are foldable and completely removable, as well as a huge boot even when all 7 seats are in place, the Caddy Maxi represents incredibly flexibility and practicality as a family vehicle.

In this review, our video guy Ciro De Siena takes a detailed look at the top-spec VW Caddy Maxi 2.0Tdi variant, and does his best to not put his back out while removing and replacing all the seats.

Looking for a used VW Caddy for sale in South Africa? We have over 220 to choose from.

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Jaguar F-Pace SVR Edition 1988 for SA

Jaguar has announced a bespoke limited edition F-Pace SVR Edition 1988 of which only 394 will be produced and only 5 will be available in South Africa.

The Jaguar F-Pace SVR is a beast of an SUV that’s fitted with a powerful 405 kW / 700 Nm 5.0-litre supercharged V8 engine and is capable of accelerating from zero to 100 kph in 4.0 seconds and can reach a top speed of 286 kph.

Now, for the first time, Jaguar will be offering a limited edition F-Pace SVR Edition 1988 and the model will make its debut at the upcoming 24 Hours of Le Mans from 8-12 June 2022 and will thereafter take part in the Goodwood Festival of Speed from 23-26 June 2022.

Only 394 units will be produced by Jaguar’s Special Vehicle Operations (SVO), one for each lap completed by the winning Jaguar XJR-9 LM at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1988. Only 5 will be available in South Africa!

The Jaguar F-Pace SVR Edition 1988 by SV Bespoke will be offered in an exclusive, specially-formulated Midnight Amethyst Gloss body colour and it will ride on Champagne Gold Satin 22-inch alloy wheels with Sunset Gold Satin details seen inside and out. A “One of 394” graphic highlights each vehicle’s special build number.

Only 394 will be built and only 5 are coming to South Africa.

The Edition 1988 can also be identified by its Sunset Gold Satin Jaguar leaper and script on the tailgate or by the laser-etched Edition 1988 logos seen on each of the front wing panels.

Mark Turner, Commercial Director of Special Vehicle Operations, Jaguar, said: “Since its introduction in 2019, the Jaguar F-Pace SVR has established itself as a highly characterful and rewarding high-performance car. Pairing these qualities with a level of SV Bespoke personalisation and exclusivity never offered before on F-PACE makes Edition 1988 an even more captivating proposition. With strictly limited availability, we’re confident this will quickly become the most sought-after F-Pace SVR yet.”

Inside, the special edition F-Pace SVR features semi-aniline Ebony leather upholstery with exclusive Sunset Gold Satin detailing on the dashboard, steering spokes, gear-shift paddles and on the ventilated Performance seats. SV Bespoke and Edition 1988 branding is seen on the tread plates and dashboard while the Jaguar leaper and horn ring on the steering wheel has a Satin Black finish.

Availability and local pricing details will be made available at a later date.

Buy a Jaguar F-Pace on Cars.co.za

All-Electric BMW iX1 Revealed

Joining the brand-new X1 is the all-electric BMW iX1 and it’s confirmed for SA. Here are the early details.

We’ve already had some early details of the all-new BMW X1, which is bigger than ever and will be coming to SA before the end of 2022. If you’re fed up with the ever-increasing prices of fuel, an electric derivative has been confirmed too.

This is the all-electric BMW iX1 and will be sold in one derivative; xDrive30. It’s the brand’s first all-wheel drive EV to compete in this growing premium compact segment.

Under the skin, the all-electric BMW iX1 features two electric motors that produce 230 kW and 494 Nm. It should be quite brisk, with a claimed 0-100 kph of just 5.7 seconds and it’ll run to a top speed of 180 kph. There’s a 64.7 kWh battery pack located on the vehicle’s floor and the all-electric BMW iX1 supports 130 kW DC fast charging.

This means you can get 120 km of range in just 10 minutes. It’ll go from 10%-80% in 30 minutes. There’s also single and 3-phase AC charging at up to 11 kW. A range of between 413 km and 438 km is claimed.

Visually, the electric BMW iX1 is remarkably similar to its conventionally-powered X1 siblings. You’ll spot a blue halo around the BMW logo, BMW i branding on the front and rear and there are blue accents on the grille, side skirts and rear bumper.

Inside, the cabin is remarkably similar to that of the recently-unveiled X1. A large curved infotainment screen stretches across the dashboard and integrates the latest iDrive 8 operating system.

Electric BMW iX1 for SA?

The all-new iX1 will be touching down in the first quarter of 2023, with the standard BMW X1 arriving in the fourth quarter of 2022. We’ll have pricing and specification details then.

2023 BMW X1 Confirmed for SA

Meet the brand-new 2023 BMW X1. It has changed considerably and is confirmed for an SA market introduction before the end of 2022.

The BMW X1 is the entry-point into the Bavarian brand’s range of SUVs, but this all-new model can no longer be considered compact.

The 2023 BMW X1 is 43 mm longer, 22.9 mm wider and 43 mm taller. The wheelbase has grown by 22.9 mm and the track width increased by 20.3 mm. This means that while the vehicle has grown in size, cabin space has increased too.

Visually, it’s not as bold-looking as some of the other recent BMW products, but that’s understandable as the X1/X3/X5 are part of BMW’s more traditional and conservative client base. There are some new bold colours on offer, like the Utah Orange you see here and customers can spec wheels up to 20-inch in size. Standard units are 18-inch.

Inside, the futuristic-looking curved digital dashboard is fitted and it comes with the new iDrive Operating System 8 which sees many physical buttons fall away. There are 4x USB-C ports, Hey BMW digital assistant, augmented reality navigation, Over-the-Air updates, and a digital ckey to name but a few. Keen-eyed readers will notice the traditional gear knob has been replaced by a gear selector.

There is an array of engines to choose from, ranging from petrol and diesel, to electrified hybrids as well as a pure electric iX1 model for the global market. The SA market is likely to get the X1 sDrive18i with a 1.5-litre 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine delivering 115 kW and 230 Nm, as well as the sDrive18d, which is a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder diesel producing 110 kW and 360 Nm.

Want to purchase a new or used BMW? Browse units for sale here.

2023 BMW X1 Coming to South Africa?

The all-new BMW X1 and iX1 will be available in South Africa from the fourth quarter of 2022 and the first quarter of 2023, respectively. We’ll have pricing and specification details then.

New Lexus RX Brings Hybrid Style and Tech to the Road

Lexus has unveiled its fifth generation RX crossover and the newcomer boasts new hybrid technology as well as a striking design execution. Take a look at what the new Lexus RX has to offer!

The Lexus RX crossover is a core model for the Japanese luxury car brand and since its inception in 2008, the RX has racked up approximately 3.5 million sales worldwide across 4 generations.

The new RX is built on the firm’s GA-K platform and stands 4 890 mm in length (the same as the outgoing RX) but is 25 mm wider at 1 920 mm and stands some 10 mm lower. Lexus has stretched the RX’s wheelbase by some 60 mm to 2 850 mm. Importantly, the new RX is 90 kg lighter than its predecessor.

For the new RX, Lexus wanted to develop a car that’s not only fun to drive while retaining high levels of refinement but also to transform the design by adopting a “spindle body” that exudes a new look while also providing the necessary cooling of the powertrain.

As for the interior, it follows the human-centered Tazuna concept which aims to create a more meaningful connection between the driver and the vehicle while also providing a comfortable and spacious cabin for passengers.

The new Lexus RX adopts familiar interior styling seen on the new NX.

The interior look and feel has been significantly improved and the RX features both a digital instrument cluster as well as a large touchscreen infotainment system. Note that most of the vehicle’s functionality has migrated to the infotainment system which means that the cabin is far less cluttered with buttons, as was the case with the previous RX. We love the look of the new RX’s interior!

Lexus will offer 6 levels of trim for the RX including the Standard, Premium, Premium+, Luxury, F Sport Handling and the range-topping F-Sport Performance.

What powertrains are offered on the new Lexus RX?

The RX range starts with the RX350 which now employs a turbocharged 2.4-litre petrol engine with 205 kW and 429 Nm of torque and is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. For reference, the outgoing RX350 has a 3.5-litre V6 engine with 221 kW and 370 Nm… The RX350 will be offered in either front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive configuration and note that this is the only non-hybrid RX on offer.

The hybrid RX350h replaces the outgoing RX450h and combines a 2.5-litre petrol engine with Lexus’ latest fourth-generation hybrid system to develop 183 kW and 316 Nm of torque and will only be offered in all-wheel-drive guise.

A RX450h+ PHEV (Plug-In Hybrid) is also offered with a 2.5-litre petrol engine and 3 electric motors which combine to produce 222 kW and in conjunction with a 18.1 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, the RX450h+ can travel up to 60km in pure electric drive. The RX450+ is only offered in all-wheel-drive guise.

The RX F Sport Performance sits at the top of the range with a 274 kW, all-wheel-drive hybrid powertrain.

At the top of the range is the new RX 500h F Sport Performance and as its name implies, it offers significantly more grunt than the rest of its siblings. It combines a turbocharged 2.4-litre turbopetrol engine and a high output electric motor over the rear axle to produce 274 kW and 550 Nm of torque. A 6-speed automatic transmission directs power to all-four wheels and lexus claims 5.9 seconds in the sprint from zero to 100kph.

The RX 500h F Sport Performance is also distinguished by a sportier exterior design execution which includes a unique mesh spindle grille and more aggressively styled front and rear bumpers.

In terms of driver assistance, all RX derivatives will feature the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 which includes features such as radar-guided cruise control with Curve Speed Management, pre-collision system with pedestrian and motorcycle detection, intersection support, and lane departure warning with steering assist.

Lexus South Africa has confirmed that the new RX can be expected on local soil in the first quarter of 2023. Local specification and pricing details will be communicated closer to launch.

Buy a Lexus on Cars.co.za

New Honda HR-V (2022) Specs & Price

The new generation Honda HR-V is now available in South Africa! Take a look at what you can expect in terms of local specifications and pricing for the new HR-V!

Honda revealed its third-generation HR-V in early 2021 and we think Honda has hit the styling on the head! Would you agree?

The Japanese brand is keen to defend its position in the compact crossover market and this redesigned HR-V should give a good account of itself, in that role.

New look and improved safety for the Honda HR-V

The cabin of the new HR-V is not as radical as its exterior design might suggest.

A colour-coded grille, which appears integrated as part of the bumper moulding, and slim headlamps give the HR-V a very futuristic appearance. Hidden rear door handles, intricate pattern LED and a light strip connecting the taillamps, are all design details meant to give the HR-V a more upmarket look.

The HR-V silhouette also features a distinct taper beyond the C-pillar, with a nearly flat aft window giving it the requisite Sportback profile.

In South Africa, the new HR-V will be offered in 2 trim grades, namely the base HR-V Comfort and the range-topping HR-V Elegance.

Honda’s designers haven’t been as radical with the cabin architecture, but the new HR-V does have a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system (with a conventional audio volume dial) and Android Auto and Apple CarPlay functionality. The display can also be customised with shortcuts to your most preferred functions. A configurable 7-inch LCD instrument cluster is also fitted.

The Honda Sensing suite of driver assistance features will also be offered in the new HR-V. The system incorporates a new, wider-angle monocular camera that’s able to more accurately monitor the road and traffic situation to inform functions such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane keeping assist, enhanced road departure mitigation and rear-cross traffic alert to name a few. Other safety features include Collision Mitigation Braking (CMBS) and low-speed braking which uses sonar sensors to detect potential collisions.

In terms of practicality, those quite brilliant magic seats, one of Honda’s best ergonomic comfort and convenience components, are also fixed to the HR-V’s cabin. More so, Honda claims class-leading levels of cargo space and says that surfboards can be carried with ease (this is something we would love to test) and that you can load not 1 but 2 mountain bikes upright (with the front wheels removed) into the HR-V. The load bay also has an additional storage facility under the boot floor for storing items out of sight.

What powertrains are available for the new Honda HR-V in South Africa?

The new HR-V will be launching in South Africa in May 2022!

In South Africa, the new Honda HR-V Comfort and HR-V Elegance is powered by an 89 kW 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated petrol engine, the same that powers the Honda Fit. This engine is paired to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) that will direct power to the front wheels.

In other markets, a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive hybrid HR-V is available for the first time and delivers 96 kW and 253 Nm, with the non-hybridized 1.5-litre Atkinson-cycle engine offering 87 kW, but significantly weaker on torque, at only 142 Nm (outputs vary depending on the market). While the HR-V hybrid won’t be offered at launch, it can’t be ruled out for introduction in the future and Honda may see this as an opportunity to capitalise on the growth that hybrid models have seen in this segment since the introduction of the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid, which is selling strongly in South Africa.

We are currently driving the new Honda HR-V at its local launch so be sure to look out for our Launch Review soon!

How much does the new Honda HR-V cost in South Africa?

Honda HR-V Comfort CVT – R469 000

Honda HR-V Elegance CVT – R554 500

The new Honda HR-V is sold with a 5-year/200 000km warranty, 4-year/60 000km service plan and 3-year roadside assistance.

Also see: What has happened to Honda SA? A look at sales figures

Honda HR-V (2022) Launch Review

The new-generation Honda HR-V enters the compact family-car fray as a more niche and distinctive small crossover. We drove the new model during its local launch in the Western Cape.

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