Toyota in India has pulled the plug on the Urban Cruiser, suggesting the popular baby crossover’s time in South Africa will soon come to an abrupt end, too…
UPDATE: Toyota SA Motors says it has enough stock of the Urban Cruiser to carry it into the new year.
In a surprise move, Toyota’s Indian division has discontinued the Urban Cruiser. Since the model is produced only in that country, it seems all but certain the Suzuki-built (and outgoing Brezza-based) crossover will also soon exit the South African market.
Interestingly, zero units were registered in India in October, with the vehicle also having been removed from Toyota India’s website. Now, Autocar India has received confirmation the Urban Cruiser is indeed a thing of the past. Perhaps more pertinent, though, is the claim a fresh version based on the new Vitara Brezza is not on the cards.
According to the report, the main reason Toyota has seemingly opted not to move the Urban Cruiser into a new generation involves the notion it would be priced to close to the larger Urban Cruiser Hyryder (apparently in part thanks to “royalties” that would have to be paid to alliance partner, Suzuki).
What does this mean for the Urban Cruiser in SA?
So, what are the ramifications for South Africa? Well, for now the Urban Cruiser is still listed on Toyota SA Motors’ website. Launched locally as recently as March 2021, the model quickly became a firm favourite with South African buyers.
October 2022 was another strong sales month for the budget crossover, which with 1 820 registrations placed third – behind only the Hilux and Corolla Cross – on the list of SA’s best-selling vehicles. Year to date, as many as 14 713 units have been sold in South Africa, making it one of Toyota’s top-performing models locally.
Though nothing is yet official, it seems likely any stock Toyota SA Motors has built up will start depleting soon (unless the factory in India continues producing for export markets for a little while longer). Once the Urban Cruiser officially exits the local line-up, it will leave a gaping hole.
What could replace the Urban Cruiser in SA?
So, what could step into the Urban Cruiser’s shoes? Well, a Toyota SA Motors official confirmed to Cars.co.za the local division does have “a replacement lined up, which carries a very similar name”. That would lead us to believe the aforementioned Urban Cruiser Hyryder could indeed be launched in South Africa.
However, considering the Hyryder – which shares much with the Suzuki Grand Vitara scheduled to arrive in South Africa in early 2023 – is larger and more premium than the Urban Cruiser, it would surely not be quite as affordable (for the record, the five-strong range is currently priced from R280 400 to R353 600). That means there would be a distinct risk of the Hyryder overlapping with the locally produced Corolla Cross.
Does Toyota SA Motors have any alternatives? Well, there is the Yaris Cross, though considering it would have to be imported from Japan or France, it too would surely be too pricey to plug the gap. There’s also the option of the Raize, which is built by Daihatsu in Japan, Indonesia and Malaysia. Finally, Toyota in India is said to be working on something called the Taisor, which will effectively be a coupé-style crossover based on Suzuki’s Baleno.
Previous iterations of the Nissan Qashqai were very popular, but the small crossover and medium SUV segments are awash with strong contenders. Does the 3rd-generation Nissan Qashqai have what it takes to be a segment leader?
We like: Refined powertrain, excellent fit and finish, comfortable ride quality, premium ambience, large fuel tank, comprehensive warranty.
We don’t like: Pricey compared with rivals, so-so fuel economy, small load bay.
With fresh and modern looks, the Qashqai certainly stands out from the crowd.
Although the Almera budget sedan and Magnite small crossover are reasonably popular models in South Africa, Nissan’s passenger-vehicle line-up is rather limited. The Japanese marque, which produces the long-serving NP200 and recently updated Navara bakkie at its Rosslyn plant, could easily have followed Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa’s strategy of focusing on the light commercial vehicle market. Thankfully, it hasn’t.
The 3rd-generation Nissan Qashqai recently landed in Mzansi and will be joined by its bigger X-Trail sibling next year. Both models will be available with conventional petrol engines, as well as new-gen e-Power electrification, with the latter technology earmarked for 2023.
The Qashqai line-up comprises 3 derivatives; there are manual and auto versions and prices start at R568 200. Tested here is the flagship 1.3T Acenta Plus (R670 600). Right off the bat, this is a freshly styled and eye-catching motor vehicle. Perhaps it was the Ceramic Grey two-tone paint, or its bold face with futuristic LED lights, but it drew many onlookers’ attention.
There are three trim levels available in the new Qashqai line-up.
When it comes to rivals to the Qashqai, many brands offer products in this space. By sorting the results of our Buyer’s Guide and Compare Tool searches by values such as the number of seats and driven wheels, we came up with a long list of alternative models that are priced around R650k. Bigger family cars such as the Hyundai Tucson, Mazda CX-5, Kia Sportage, Toyota RAV4 and VW Tiguan occupy this space, albeit with entry- to mid-spec trim levels.
There are some left-field alternatives, such as the all-wheel-drive Forester and the oh-so-stylish 3008 from established brands Subaru and Peugeot, but don’t discount models such as the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro and Haval H6 – they offer excellent value and are great to drive too.
The optional two-tone finish is tasteful and the newcomer thankfully doesn’t overdo the SUV-look black cladding.
How the Qashqai fares in terms of…
Performance and economy
The Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi alliance’s 1.3-litre 4-cylinder turbopetrol motor is utilised in all Qashqai derivatives. Interestingly, due to Nissan’s partnership with Daimler/Mercedes-Benz, this engine is also used in the German marque’s compact models, such as the A-Class. In the Qashqai, it develops 110 kW/250 Nm and drives the front wheels via a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The entry-level version has lower outputs – and a manual ‘box.
A CVT transmission that behaves like an old-school auto is a treat!
The good news is that the CVT is one of the best in the segment; it’s evidently a new-gen unit that’s well-calibrated to the engine’s performance characteristics, because it behaves much like a conventional torque-converter-type automatic transmission. Not only does Nissan’s newcomer deliver smooth acceleration – it even comes equipped with gearshift paddles on the steering wheel; when you use them, they create a satisfying illusion of “changing gears”.
There’s precious little of that typical CVT drone, unless you flatten the accelerator pedal. That was exactly what we did, obviously, to see just how it would fare against the stopwatch. With its Sport drive mode engaged, the Qashqai achieved a 9.71-sec 0-100 kph sprint time, which is fine. Its powertrain’s quite responsive, particularly when you need to overtake slower traffic.
An average (indicated) consumption figure of 9.0 L/100 km is not class-leading.
Whereas the powertrain’s refined – the cabin’s largely devoid of mechanical noise – it does fall short in terms of fuel economy. At the end of the test, the Qashqai indicated 9.0 L/100 km, which is a bit more than Nissan’s claim of 6.1 L/100 km. We utilised the Standard mode most of the time, so you should be able to better our return if you favour the Eco mode and drive conservatively. The fuel tank holds 65 litres – it’s larger than those of most of its rivals.
Ride and handling
Previous iterations of the Qashqai were renowned for their forgiving suspension setups and the new model is no exception. Many top-spec small crossovers are dressed up to look sporty and their bigger wheels tend to contribute to rather firm ride qualities, but this Nissan again prioritises comfort. Despite our test unit being the flagship – it rides on large (19-inch) alloy wheels – the Qashqai rode quietly and comfortably, irrespective of the road surface quality.
These 19-inch alloys offer a cushy ride quality, despite their size.
We traversed an unusually surfaced European-style road in the Stellenbosch area (made from old bricks!) and the Qashqai positively breezed over them; not once did it become unsettled. Better still, under 100 kph the noise generated by the road surface barely entered the cabin.
The refinement of the Qashqai is particularly impressive, especially when you consider that Nissan is not regarded as a premium brand, and yet this new offering delivers “Teutonic” levels of comfort and quietness. On the downside, however, because the Qashqai eschews sportiness in favour of outright comfort, it’s not exactly the most engaging vehicle to drive.
The multifunction steering wheel is adorned with beautifully finished switchgear.
That’s all good and well if you just want a comfortable family car that is relaxing to drive, but if you – like us – want to extract some enjoyment from driving, you’re unlikely to find many thrills here. Fortunately, it’s not a deal-breaker. The steering setup is pleasantly light, which largely takes the hassle out of parallel parking and navigating congested city traffic.
Features, tech and safety
All three Nissan Qashqai derivatives come well-equipped with standard features, especially the Acenta and Acenta Plus versions. Not only do you get more features, but the powertrain offers more power and a smoother driving experience, thanks to that rather well-sorted CVT.
Cellphone mirroring tech is a must-have at this price point.
The 1.3T Acenta Plus may be priced concerningly close to R700k, but, by small-crossover (and even medium-SUV) standards, it’s a generously specced proposition. You’ll be perched on supportive and comfortable leather seats that offer heating – and massage – functions at the front, while enjoying your favourite songs through the Bose 10-speaker audio system.
Other noteworthy features include a 12.3-inch infotainment system, which supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, USB-A and USB-C chargers, a wireless charging pad, a 360-degree parking camera, front/rear park sensors and dynamic LED headlights.
Need a recharge? USB-A and USB-C sockets are provided.
A major highlight is the Qashqai flagship’s array of semi-autonomous safety tech. Top-shelf features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and our favourite tech, intelligent forward emergency braking, are included.
With the latter, the vehicle will automatically apply braking if it detects that the driver hasn’t reacted quickly enough to onboard collision warnings (it detects vehicles and pedestrians).
Semi-autonomous safety tech is fitted as standard.
In addition to ABS with EBD and electronic stability control, 6 airbags are fitted, while tyre-pressure monitoring is very useful for those who traverse some of SA’s worst-kept roads.
Packaging and Practicality
The 1.3T Acenta Plus’ cabin looks and feels notably upmarket, which suggests that Nissan hopes to attract buyers who’d usually consider premium brands’ models… The build quality is up there with the best in the segment – panels line up neatly, materials feel plush, and the switchgear wouldn’t look out of place in a similarly sized model made by a German marque.
Heated seats (with a massage function) are standard on the top-spec derivative.
Not only does the Qashqai’s interior create a distinctly upmarket ambience; it is designed to maximise ergonomic efficiency (user-friendliness). Clearly, Nissan’s factory in Sunderland –and the firm’s designers elsewhere – are at the top of their games, which is praiseworthy.
The position of the driver’s seat, for example, is spot on; it offers excellent visibility all-round and enough height to instil that premium SUV feeling that so many buyers crave.
There’s more than enough space for adults at the back.
What’s more, rear passengers are afforded satisfactory leg- and headroom. This author is just over 1.9m tall and was able to successfully complete the (time-honoured) sit-behind-yourself set. If you find yourself seated in the back, there are a pair of USB ports to charge devices.
The luggage space is a little on the small side compared with other (medium) SUVs at this price point, but bear in mind the Qashqai is physically smaller than those models. The load bay features a 12V power socket and clever little hooks from which to hang shopping bags.
The load bay is a bit small compared with those of similarly priced rivals.
Price and After-sales support
The Nissan Qashqai 1.3T Acenta Plus costs R670 600 (November 2022), which includes a 3-year/90 000 km service plan, plus a 6-year/150 000 km warranty with roadside assistance.
Verdict
Nissan has achieved phenomenal success with the Qashqai – the 1st- and 2nd-gen models lit up the sales charts and helped to kickstart the small-crossover craze. The third-gen Qashqai is well made and it meets virtually all the requirements of a high-end compact family car. However, it comes at quite a price, literally. The SUV market is ultra-competitive and in this price bracket, there are some tantalising prospects that offer more power and more space.
It’s a great car, but there’s better value for money in the middle of the range.
As excellent as the Qashqai 1.3T Acenta Plus is as a standalone model, we must consider its rivals at the price – and many of them compete in the medium SUV segment. Truth is, the Nissan starts to look uncomfortably expensive if you consider that the larger Kia Sportage GT-Line Plus and Toyota RAV4 2.5 Hybrid GX-R are priced just a few thousand Rand more and offer more performance, interior space and features. A fully-loaded hybrid Haval H6 is priced almost the same as a top-spec Qashqai and outguns it in almost every department.
One of the best family SUVs we’ve driven this year – it’s just a pity about the price.
So, should you buy one? This model sees the Qashqai move upmarket and, in Acenta Plus guise, it’s arguably more of a rival to premium brands’ small crossovers… If you have your heart set on the Nissan, the best value can be found in the Acenta derivative (R639 300). The newcomer’s comprehensive warranty and service plan certainly help to sweeten the deal.
The Citroen C5 Aircross has come in for a mid-life facelift in 2022. The family SUV has always proved to offer good value, updated tech and excellent practicality. What’s in store for the updated model? Check out our specs and pricing here.
The most obvious addition to the exterior of the Citroen C5 Aircross is the new daytime running lights that form a V shape at their outer edges. More brands are focusing on unique lighting brands to distinguish themselves and Citroen is no different. The rear lights have a permanent lighting signature that’s also new for the facelift model. As with almost all model updates there is a newly designed wheel – in this case, an 18-inch diamond cut alloy with black finishing.
The interior features an updated infotainment system and digital instrument cluster. The centre console has also been redesigned to incorporate an e-toggle and drive mode selector.
The Citroen C5 Aircross comes in 2 models, the entry model remains the Feel, while the top spec is called the Shine. Both use the familiar (to Peugeot and Citroen) 1.6-litre turbopetrol with 121 kW and 240 Nm. Fuel economy is claimed to be 7.9L/100 km with CO2 emissions at 179g/km.
In terms of specification the entry-level Feel is equipped with:
LED daytime running lights
Dual zone climate control
Aluminium pedals
Sliding rear seats
Cruise control
8-inch infotainment system
12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
6-speaker audio system with Android Auto and Apple Carplay compatibility
2x USB ports
Remote central locking
ABS with EBD
Park distance control
The top spec Shine model builds on that spec with the following:
Blind-spot monitoring
Electrically operated tailgate
Roof rails
Auto dimming interior mirror
Electrically adjustable driver’s seat
10-inch infotainment system
Keyless start
Active safety braking
Collision detection alert
Front and rear park distance control
180-degree park assist
Reverse camera
Selling points for the new Citroen C5 Aircross include class-leading ground clearance which is claimed to be 230 mm – about 15mm more than most of the Family SUV rivals it competes with. The C5 Aircross also has one of the largest luggage capacity spaces in the segment claiming 720 litres of load space.
A new maintenance package has been added to the C5 Aircross to match the 5-year/100 000 km warranty, the brand is now offering a competitive 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan as well.
Look out for our drive of the new model, with full details later this week.
Citroen C5 Aircross Pricing
1.6T Feel – R633 900
1.6T Shine – R683 900
How the interest rate on your loan is calculated
Buying a vehicle is a long-term decision and we want to help you make an informed one with our Street Smart series, brought to you by Absa Vehicle and Asset Finance. In this episode, we chat with Absa’s Deen Govender about the factors that play a role in the interest rate that a financial institution will offer you on a loan.
PARTNERED CONTENT
The cost of living is rising so quickly and so too is the cost of borrowing money. When you apply for a new loan, it’s important to make an informed decision by considering factors that influence the interest rate that is offered. This could help you save a good deal of money throughout the life of the loan.
Deen Govender – Absa Vehicle & Asset Finance’s Head of Dealer Relations for Gauteng and Limpopo – tells us more.
What determines the credit assessment and interest rate?
Absa employs a risk-based pricing approach, where customers’ risk, finance structure and asset characteristics are considered on a deal-by-deal basis.
Therefore, a credit assessment and interest rate are determined by:
A customer’s income, and the sustainability of this income, in order to ascertain and ensure affordability.
Their credit score and credit history. In other words, the manner in which previous credit obligations have been managed.
Depending on the loan, the type and quality of the asset, vehicle or property.
The channel used to buy the vehicle.
The type of interest rate you select when applying for a loan. In other words, whether it is fixed or linked to the prime lending rate.
The choice between a fixed and a variable rate depends on whether a customer is willing to allow market forces to affect their monthly instalments. Generally, the fixed rate option will give one the comfort of an instalment amount that doesn’t change. However, this certainty comes at a cost because the interest rate is typically higher than the variable interest rate, which will increase or decrease in line with the prime lending rate.
Therefore, a customer needs to consider the benefit of the fixed instalment versus the variable instalment and the possible fluctuations that may occur.
Which factors will contribute to having a more favourable outcome on your application for a vehicle-finance loan?
A vehicle with a lower age is less risky for the bank to finance because of the higher value and better warranty, leaving you to focus mostly on maintenance rather than repairs. New vehicles may come at a higher price, but interest rates may be lower because of ongoing car-dealership specials and promotions.
Paying an upfront deposit on the vehicle and borrowing less money. This saves you in the long run, because the interest charged on the loan is lower.
Not taking a large balloon amount – or not taking one at all. It cannot be stressed enough that you need to prepare for this, or you will find yourself making other arrangements such as taking out a personal loan to pay off the balloon amount at the end of the contract term.
Having an existing primary banking relationship with your bank. This makes it easier to assess the recent activity on your account and other credit products.
Having a higher credit score and a longer credit history.
How can you increase your credit score?
You can work towards increasing your credit score by following steps such as:
Paying loans on time and setting up debit orders for payments.
Paying off existing loans, closing any unnecessary accounts and keeping credit use low.
Reviewing your credit score regularly, rectifying mistakes, and identifying any fraudulent activities early.
For extra information on how you can become a better consumer, keep a lookout for more episodes from our Street Smart series and be sure to visit the Absa blog.
Absa’s Fulufhelo Mandane discusses what you need to consider before you start shopping for a vehicle, the costs of ownership and your various finance options. Absa First-time Buyer Guide to Vehicle Finance
Absa’s Gordon Wood details how the new Aftermarket Guidelines, which were introduced in the motor industry last year, affect you as a vehicle owner. Absa’s Guide to Responsible Vehicle Ownership
The new Volvo EX90 all-electric flagship SUV has finally been unwrapped, billed as the start of a new era for the Swedish firm and the safest Volvo yet…
Volvo, which aims to be a fully electric brand by 2030, has whipped the covers off its new battery-powered EX90 flagship SUV in Stockholm.
Effectively arriving as the successor to the XC90 (though the latter will likely continue alongside the newcomer for a while yet), the 7-seater EX90 is described as the safest Volvo yet and the “start of a new era” for the company. Production will start in the United States in 2023 before also expanding to China.
The new EX90 is the third fully electric Volvo following the launch of the XC40 Recharge variants and the standalone C40 Recharge. The Swedish automaker says it plans to reveal “one new fully electric car each year” as it moves towards its 2030 goal. Furthermore, it has an ambition to be a climate-neutral company by 2040.
What we know about the EX90’s powertrain so far
So, what’s happening under the skin? Well, the EX90 rides on Volvo’s new fully electric platform and will deliver “up to 600 km” of range on a single charge. The initially available 300 kW twin-motor all-wheel-drive version will feature a 111 kWh battery and two permanent magnet electric motors (one on each axle). There will later be a “performance version” generating peak outputs of 380 kW and 910 Nm.
Though the Gothenburg-based automaker has not yet gone into specifics around charging outputs, it has said the battery will be capable of moving from 10 to 80% in “under 30 minutes”. Selected markets will also gain the company’s home energy management system, which includes a bi-directional wall box and the ability to monitor and optimise the entire household’s energy consumption.
While Volvo promises the EX90 will deliver a “great and smooth driving experience”, it also describes the newcomer as “a highly advanced computer on wheels”, explaining it has been designed to “get better over time” thanks to regular over-the-air software updates.
Will the EX90 be the safest Volvo yet?
That extends to safety, with Volvo claiming the EX90 will “get smarter and safer over time, as it learns from new data and receives updates”. The safety system depends on cameras, radars and Lidar (note the roof-mounted sensor system), which connect to the vehicle’s high-performance core computers.
The Luminar-supplied Lidar system, for instance, is capable of picking up “small objects hundreds of metres ahead”. In the cabin, meanwhile, special sensors and cameras gauge the driver’s concentration levels and will even “safely stop and call for help” should it detect the driver has fallen asleep or taken ill.
Volvo says the sensors also help improve the “reliability and overall performance” of the Pilot Assist driving function, including new steering support for changing lanes. In fact, the company claims the EX90 is “hardware-ready for unsupervised driving in the future”.
A quick look inside the EX90’s cabin
The dashboard design appears fairly minimalistic, though is dominated by a 14.5-inch centrally sited screen running infotainment powered by Android (but also compatible with wireless Apple CarPlay). The range of Google apps and services will include hands-free help from Google Assistant and Google Maps navigation. In addition, 5G connectivity will be standard “where available”. The EX90 will also come with phone-key technology as standard, with the driver’s smartphone serving as a car key and automatically unlocking the vehicle, starting a “personal welcoming sequence” and loading a personal profile.
The Swedish firm describes the cabin as being “full of natural and responsibly sourced materials”. Indeed, the EX90 contains approximately 15% recycled steel, 25% recycled aluminium and 48 kg of recycled plastics and bio-based materials, which corresponds to around 15% of the total plastic used in the car.
“The Volvo EX90 is a statement for where we are, and where we are going. It’s fully electric with a range of up to 600 km on a single charge, designed to further raise our safety standards, the first Volvo car to be truly defined by its software and part of a wider ecosystem, connecting to your home and your other devices. The Volvo EX90 is the start of something new for Volvo Cars in many ways,” says Volvo Cars chief executive, Jim Rowan.
Although Volvo Car South Africa has yet to nail down an introduction date, it says the new EX90 is indeed planned for a local launch at some point in the future.
If ever you have wanted an offroad-capable two-door supercar, there’s something coming that may tickle your fancy. The Porsche 911 Dakar is coming soon!
This is not the German carmaker’s rodeo when it comes to going offroading in a Porsche 911. Porsche won the 1984 Paris-Dakar rally in a modified 911 that had been fitted with an all-wheel-drive setup for the very first time. Fast-forward to 2022 and the finishing touches are being put on the brand-new Porsche 911 Dakar. What you see here are teaser images from Porsche, showing the extensive testing process the 911 Dakar has undergone to ensure its truly offroad-ready.
The idea of taking a supercar like the 911 off tar is a bizarre one, but Porsche is determined to make the concept work. The development team has completed more than 10 000 km offroad and put the mules into extreme conditions for more than 500 000 km. The 911 Dakar was even sent on some hardcore rally tracks to refine the suspension setup.
One such track is the Château de Lastours circuit in France. “All Dakar teams come here to test their cars in Europe before the rally,” says Porsche works driver Romain Dumas. “I knew what a 911 could do on the road,” says Dumas, “but I was absolutely stunned by how well the car performed here on the loose.”
Other locations that saw visits from the 911 Dakar prototypes were the ice facilities in Arjeplog, Sweden as well as the sandy trails and huge dunes of Dubai and Morocco. There are few technical details about the 911 Dakar like engines and performance, but given its offroad credentials, you can expect a reinforced chassis, offroad suspension, raise ground clearance and provision for offroad-specific accessories like roof rails.
When is the Porsche 911 Dakar being revealed?
Quite soon actually, with Porsche confirming that it will be unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show on the 17th November 2022 at 4am Central European Time.
All-new, BMW 7 Series In-depth Review – We drive BMW’s latest flagship in California
Join our race-ace Ashley Oldfield as he travels to California to sample the latest generation of BMW’s flagship sedan, including the i7, M760 and 740i.
Palm Springs California is a suitably swanky location for what is possibly the ultimate luxury car. Although given that 42% of BMW’s 7 Series customers are now in China, Beijing or Shanghai would have probably worked as well.
The challenge was to design a car which appealed to both these upwardly mobile, younger Chinese buyers, and the older BMW faithful. The result is a design which is quite challenging but has an undeniable presence.
We also take a look at the gigantic 31-inch rear TV which has certainly made waves and gone viral on social media.
Ashley takes all three models for a drive and also answers which new 7 Series variants will be introduced in South Africa.
So, what’s an electric BMW 7-Series like to drive? Only one way to find out.
Looking for a used BMW for sale in South Africa? We have over 4200 to choose from!
The brand-new 2023 Volkswagen Amarok will be hitting showrooms next year, but already offroad specialists are working on the custom accessories. Look what Delta4x4 is envisioning!
If you were not aware, the brand-new Volkswagen Amarok will be built right here in South Africa, by Ford SA at the latter’s facility in Pretoria. The new Amarok will share quite a few mechanical elements from the Ranger, and it will be fascinating to see just how close or far apart the two bakkies will be. 2023 will be quite the year for fans of the double-cab bakkie!
If you’re into your double-cab pickups, you’re more than likely aware about the customisation and accessories part of the lifestyle and there are many companies who specialise in making bakkies more capable and more practical than the standard offering. One such tuner is German offroad specialist Delta4x4 who is hard at work on making the new 2023 Volkswagen Amarok even more capable and hardcore.
What you see here are digital renderings of what Delta4x4 has nicknamed ‘the Beast.’ The extensive upgrades will see this Amarok to sit 150 mm higher than the one that will roll off the factory floor. On each corner are beadlock wheels wrapped in high-profile chunky rubber and the wheel arches have been extensively modified to accomodate the larger wheels. Bigger arches also enhance the look and this Amarok will be quite wider.
Other nice toys added into the mix include a high-power LED on the roof as well as lighting for the front bullbar. A winch will be added too, for additional capability. A roof rack will be installed for extra storage. While there’s no tech data on any engine upgrades, the model depicted is the 3.0-litre V6, which will feature the Ford-sourced 10-speed automatic gearbox. Power outputs for the SA market are yet to be confirmed, but internationally the V6 is available in two states of tune: 177 kW and 184 kW, the latter boasting a monstrous 600 Nm.
We will be getting our first taste of the new 2023 Volkswagen Amarok towards the end of November 2022 as the international media drive will be taking place right here in the home of the double-cab bakkie, South Africa.
Audi Q8 e-tron Range Revealed for 2023
The Audi e-tron SUV range has become the Q8 e-tron. Here’s all you need to know about the new electric SUV from the Ingolstadt-based brand.
If you’re confused, don’t panic as we were too initially. Essentially, the e-tron SUV range has been renamed Q8 e-tron and based on that numbering system, it would be fair to assume there’s going to be a Q6 e-tron in the new future as there’s already a Q4 available in some markets overseas.
It’s not just a name change either, with numerous upgrades in terms of efficiency, technology and design applied across the range. Speaking of, the Q8 e-tron will be available in your standard SUV shape, as well as the more aggressive-looking Sportback shape. There’ll also be performance-biased S-badged models too.
Visually, there’s a radical change to the nose with new lamps, illuminated parts of the grille and there’s a revised Audi logo. Some work has been done to the aerodynamics of the car to make it cut through the air with less resistance, and Audi claims its drag coefficient has been reduced.
The range will feature three powertrains and two battery sizes. In base trim, the Q8 50 features an electric motor on each axle producing 250 kW and 664 Nm. This battery has 89 kWh (95 kWh gross) and is said to provide a range of 491 km for the SUV and 505 km for the Sportback. This model is said to sprint to 100 kph in just 6 seconds.
Next up is the Q8 55 e-tron which has 300 kW and 664 Nm from a bigger 104 kWh battery (114 kWh gross). A range of 582 km is being claimed, with 600 km for the Sportback. This is fractionally faster with a claimed sprint time of 5.6 seconds to 100 kph.
If you’re wanting something rapid, then the SQ8 e-tron features 3 electric motors, with one driving the front wheels and two powering the rear axle. A monster 370 kW and 973 Nm are on tap, from a 104 kWh battery. A range of 494 km is claimed, with the Sportback going out to 513 km. All ranges are based on the WLTP test. From a standstill, the SQ8 variants will hit 100 kph in 4.5 seconds.
150 kW fast charging from a DC box is supported, with the 55 and SQ8 able to support 170 kW. If you plug in for 30 minutes, you should get around 420 km of range. Otherwise, 11 kW AC power for charging is standard, but you can optionally select 22 kW.
Inside is all the plush luxury you’d expect in this neck of the market. There are a few high-res displays, with the driver receiving the latest version of Audi’s excellent digital instrument cluster. Cool-looking cameras that replace the traditional side mirrors are optional.
A panoramic glass roof, two-zone climate control is standard, but customers can opt for a four-zone as well as nice things like massage front seats. Under the skin, Audi says its cabin features recycled materials for insulation, carpeting and sound dampening.
At this stage, there’s no word on local introduction, but the Audi Q8 e-tron range will be hitting European streets in February 2023.
*Update:* Audi SA has confirmed the Q8 e-tron range will be reaching our shores towards the end of 2023.
Nissan SA has quietly added a new special-edition model to its Magnite range. Here’s what we know about the Red Edition, including pricing…
The Nissan Magnite line-up in South Africa has gained two fresh derivatives, each featuring a new Red Edition package.
While official details are still thin on the ground, we do know the Red Edition is based on the Magnite 1.0 Turbo Acenta variant and is likewise available with either a 5-speed manual gearbox or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Upgrading to the special-edition model effectively costs an extra R7 800, with the manual version priced at R298 300 and the CVT derivative at R325 300.
So, what do you score for the additional outlay? Well, from what we can tell (and based on the version that launched in July 2022 in India, where the SA-spec Magnite is produced), the main changes outside are the adoption of red accents on the grille, front bumper cladding, wheel arches and body side cladding. The front brake callipers, too, are finished in the crimson hue (remember, the Magnite’s rear axle makes do with drum brakes).
The Magnite Red Edition furthermore features decals running along its flanks (just below the window line), culminating in bold graphics on each C-pillar. Round back, there’s additional tailgate garnish for this variant, while “Red Edition” badging is also included.
The Nissan Magnite Red Edition is distinguised by a number of cosmetic tweaks.
It’s not yet clear which exterior paint colours will be available on the Magnite Red Edition in South Africa, but it’s worth noting the two shades on offer in India are Onyx Black and Storm White. Inside this special-edition model, you’ll find a red-hued dashboard, along with matching red accents on the seat upholstery, door-side armrest and centre console.
As a reminder, Nissan launched the front-wheel-drive Magnite locally in April 2021. All variants are powered by a turbocharged 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine, which delivers 74 kW and 160 Nm in the case of the manual and a little less twisting force (at 152 Nm) in the case of the CVT. The former sips at a claimed 5.3 litres per 100 km, while the self-shifter comes in at 6.0 litres per 100 km.
For the past three months, the Magnite has been Nissan South Africa’s strongest seller in the passenger-vehicle space, with 412 units registered in August, 471 units in September and 735 units in October 2022.
How much does the Nissan Magnite Red Edition cost in SA?
Magnite 1.0 Turbo Acenta – R290 500
Magnite 1.0 Turbo Acenta Red Edition – R298 300
Magnite 1.0 Turbo Acenta CVT – R317 500
Magnite 1.0 Turbo Acenta Plus – R319 500
Magnite 1.0 Turbo Acenta Red Edition CVT – R325 300
Magnite 1.0 Turbo Acenta Plus CVT – R 346 500
A 6-year/150 000 km warranty ships standard, along with a 3-year/30 000 km service plan (featuring 10 000 km service intervals).
