The Mahindra XUV700, which is expected to arrive in Mzansi in the 1st quarter of 2022, has gone on sale in its home market and the newcomer’s specs offer a variety of insights into what the Indian family car is likely to bring to the local market next year…
The all-new XUV700 was revealed in India in August as a replacement for the XUV500 and it’s the first model to feature Mahindra’s new “Twin Peaks” corporate logo.
Apart from the fact that the newcomer is 110-mm longer (4 965 mm), courtesy of a wheelbase that has been stretched by 50 mm (to 2 750 mm), the principal reason that Mahindra chose not to replace the XUV500 with a similarly-named model is that the Indian brand plans to resurrect the outgoing nameplate in 2024, when a new offering will be rolled out to rival the popular Kia Seltos, Hyundai Creta, Toyota Corolla Cross and the like.
That being said, the XUV700 has the same width as the XUV500 and is, in actual fact, 30 mm lower than its sibling, but, on balance, it offers notably more occupant space.
Upmarket push
Although the XUV700’s exterior proportions and overall design execution are clearly evolutions of the XUV500, Mahindra has certainly added a number of luxurious adornments to distinguish its newcomer. Although the new range is quite diverse, which means it ranges from moderately-specced 5-seater- to lavishly-equipped 7-seater derivatives, top-spec variants have LED headlamps (with DRLs) and tail-light clusters, diamond-cut alloy wheels up to 18-inch in size and panoramic sunroofs.
Inside, the big talking point is the Mahindra’s dual (10.25-inch) screens – one for the digital instrument cluster and the other for the infotainment touch panel, the latter of which is not only compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, it comes with built-in Alexa (the virtual assistant technology developed by Amazon), plus it supports the subscription-based AndrenoX app, which allows users to operate certain functions (including the car’s headlamps, climate control, sunroof etc) via a smartphone app.
Other high-end features include leather trim (including for the multifunction steering wheel and transmission lever), dual-zone climate control and air purifier, automatically activated lights and -wipers, driver-drowsiness detection, plus a 6-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat with comfort access. The optional Luxury pack adds, inter alia, a Sony 3D surround-sound audio system (with 12 speakers and a subwoofer), a 360-degree camera system (including a blind-spot monitor), electrically deployable door handles, a wireless charging pad, keyless entry and an electronic parking brake.
As far as practicality is concerned, Mahindra has not released claimed load capacities (we’d assume the 5-seater version would be more popular in our market), but we know the new model features USB ports and centre armrests for the front- and 2nd rows, bottle holders in all doors, 1-touch tumble entry for the 60:40-split middle row and flat-folding 50:50-split rear seats, which can also recline and have a separate AC outlet.
Advanced Driver Assistance
The XUV700’s safety kit is comprehensive too. In its ultimate guise, Mahindra’s newcomer comes with ABS with EBD, ESP, 7 airbags (dual front, side, curtain and driver’s knee) and auto high-beam assist (with boosted illumination over 80 kph).
The top-spec (AX7) derivatives additionally feature the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems package, which incorporates forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning and -keep assist, traffic-sign recognition, as well as adaptive cruise control (with stop-and-go function on Luxury pack).
Smart Pilot Assist, meanwhile, can automatically make steering, acceleration and braking inputs to keep the XUV700 tracking within the lane that it’s travelling.
The Mahindra is powered by a 2.0-litre mStallion turbopetrol or a 2.2-litre mHawk turbodiesel 4-cylinder engine mated with either a 6-speed manual gearbox or 6-speed automatic transmission.
The turbopetrol produces peak outputs of 147 kW and 380 Nm, while the turbodiesel comes in 2 stages of tune: it either produces 114 kW/360 Nm in combination with the manual gearbox or a punchy 136 kW and 420 Nm (manual) or 450 Nm (automatic) of torque. The diesel engine additionally comes in conjunction with 4 drive modes – Zip, Zap, Zoom and Custom – that offer various powertrain and power-steering settings.
Competitively priced in India
Here’s where things get rather interesting… Given that the spacious, more advanced XUV700 is now positioned to take on the market’s much-vaunted family cars, such as the Kia Sportage, Haval H6, Hyundai Tucson, Mazda CX-5, Peugeot 3008, Toyota RAV4 and Volkswagen Tiguan, Autocar India reports that that the prices of the newcomer’s lower-end derivatives overlap with those of higher-end Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos compact family cars.
All of which suggests that with the increasing number of traditional family-car buyers that are forced to buy down because of the increasing sophistication (and, therefore, higher asking prices) of medium-sized crossovers, the XUV700 could prove to be a more affordable – yet still sufficiently spacious – alternative to mainstream offerings.
We’ll keep you posted on developments regarding the anticipated local arrival of the Mahindra XUV700. Watch this space!
We have already seen some notable new cars introduced in South Africa this year but with less than 3 months remaining in 2021, there’s still more to come! Take a look at what new cars are still expected to reach South Africa in 2021!
The ongoing Covid-19 pandemic has delayed the arrival of countless new products on local soil but local buyers still have much to look forward to.
Please note that the vehicles listed here are expected to arrive in 2021, but as we know, circumstances can change at the drop of a hat which could result in delays. Cars that do not arrive in 2021 will therefore most likely be introduced in 2022.
The updated Abarth 595 range has touched down in South Africa and buyers can now own an Abarth Yamaha Monster. Only 2 000 units are available worldwide and units allocated to South Africa are therefore very limited.
The Abarth Yamaha Monster is powered by a 1.4-litre turbopetrol engine with 132 kW and 230 Nm and is mated with a 6-speed manual transmission.
Updated versions of Alfa Romeo’s Giulia and Stelvio Quadrifoglio recently touched down in South Africa and we drove them! The changes are mostly cosmetic with some notable equipment upgrades, including the option to fit an Akrapovic exhaust system with carbon fibre tailpipes. The interior has been revamped too and a new 8.8-inch infotainment system is now part of the package. Engine outputs and performance remain the same, however, with the 2.9-litre bi-turbo V6 still producing 375 kW and 600 Nm and with power going to the rear wheels for the Giulia and all 4 wheels for the Stelvio via an 8-speed automatic gearbox. Performance is brisk, with both claiming 0-100 kph in under 4 seconds.
Drop-topping doesn’t get much better than this. The Aston Martin Vantage Roadster was expected earlier this year but it has yet to arrive. Not only is this AMG-powered newcomer capable of dashing from 0 to 100 kph in 3.7 seconds – its automatic soft-top is said to be able to retract fully in a “record-setting” 6.7 seconds! The Vantage Roadster employs a burly twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 engine to generate its forward momentum with outputs of 375 kW and 685 Nm of torque and making use of a fast-shifting 8-speed ZF automatic transmission.
The BMW M5 CS is the most powerful and fastest accelerating car the brand has ever produced. It’s powered by a 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 that produces 467 kW and 750 Nm and uses an 8-speed automatic transmission to achieve a 3.0 second zero to 100 kph sprint time. We can’t wait to drive it!
A new-look Fiat Tipo has reached local showrooms with a fresh design and in hatchback and sedan guise. The updated Fiat Tipo is available with three levels of specification: TIPO, CITY LIFE and LIFE. Two engines are on offer including a 1.4-litre petrol engine with 70 kW and 127 Nm and a larger 1.6-litre petrol engine with 81 kW and 152 Nm.
Much like the Ranger Thunder which came to market last year, the Ranger Stormtrak builds on the Ranger Wildtrak and gains its own set of eye-catching styling features. Ford’s familiar 2.0-litre bi-turbocharged diesel engine will be found in the engine bay with outputs of 157 kW and 500 Nm of torque and comes paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
An all-new Tucson family car is headed for South Africa in the final quarter of 2021 and it’s likely to ruffle a few feathers when it arrives. The sharply-styled Tucson certainly makes a bold statement with its progressive design while its interior execution is equally impressive. In terms of engine choices, South Africa should get a naturally-aspirated 2.0-litre petrol engine, 1.6-litre turbopetrol engine as well as a 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine which will be offered with a dual-clutch transmission. Exact specification details will be communicated closer to launch.
Isuzu South Africa has confirmed that its bakkie-based 7-seater offroad family SUV will be available locally as of November 2021. We’ll have confirmation on the specifications, engine choices, and pricing of the all-new Isuzu MU-X closer to the vehicle’s launch. Stay tuned!
Just when you thought the Huracan Performante was all it, Lamborghini ushers in the Huracan STO. The Huracan STO slots in above the Huracan Evo and retains the marvellous 5.2-litre V10 which produces 470 kW and 565 Nm in this application with those numbers exclusively directed to its rear rubber. Its purposeful look is met with equal performance and the zero to 100 kph sprint will take just 3 seconds while zero to 200 kph is claimed in 9 seconds with a top speed of 310 kph.
The Thar is Mahindra’s answer to the Suzuki Jimny and while it is due to arrive either in Q4 2021 or in 2022. It will be available with a choice of 4-cylinder turbocharged powerplants – either a 112 kW/320 Nm 2.0-litre petrol or a 97 kW/320 Nm 2.2-litre diesel. More so, the new Thar will be offered with a hardtop, a fixed soft-top or manual convertible roof. South African specification and pricing will be confirmed closer to launch.
Powered by Maserati’s first in-house-designed engine in 20 years, the new carbon fibre-tubbed and butterfly-doored MC20 is powered by a twin-turbo 3.0-litre V6. It utilises its lightweight body and advanced aerodynamics to accelerate from standstill to 100 kph in less than 2.9 sec and on to a top speed of 325 kph. Outputs are rated at 463 kW and 730 Nm. The MC20’s motor is mated with an 8-speed wet dual-clutch transmission, as well as a limited-slip diff. Thanks to the liberal use of carbon-fibre composites in its construction, the Maserati tips the scales at under 1 500 kg, which gives it a weight/power ratio of 2.33 kg/hp, the firm says. Thanks to a drag coefficient of under 0.38, the car’s said to sprint from 0 to 200 kph in under 8.8 sec.
Packing 563 kW and 800 Nm from its 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, the McLaren 765LT utilises myriad carbon fibre components and incorporates several upgrades – not least technologies from its Senna sibling – to establish itself as the ultimate Longtail in the Woking-based manufacturer’s model lineage. With a limited production run of only 765 units, the 765LT needs to be pretty darn special… and it most certainly is. In its leanest, most stripped-out configuration the newcomer tips the scales at 80 kg less than the 720S (for a dry weight of only 1 229 kg and a power-to-weight ratio of 36.9 kW/tonne) by virtue of a plethora of weight-saving measures.
Nissan’s new X-Terra 7-seater SUV is expected to reach South Africa in Q4 2021 to take on rivals such as the popular Toyota Fortuner, Ford Everest, Mitsubishi Pajero Sport and the Isuzu M-UX. Based on the updated Navara, the X-Terra makes use of a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine producing 123 kW and 241 Nm and equipped with a 7-speed automatic transmission. The interior has been modernised with a new infotainment system, including a flip-down 11-inch screen to entertain rear passengers. Local specification details will be confirmed closer to launch.
The new Porsche 911 GT3 was revealed earlier this year and if the outgoing 911 GT3 RS, which we tested recently, is anything to go by then this latest version will surely be something truly special. Official outputs are 375 kW and 470 Nm from its rear-mounted 4.0-litre flat-6 engine which is paired to a lightning-fast dual-clutch PDK or 6-speed manual transmission. Zero to 100kph is claimed at 3.4 seconds. We can’t wait to drive the new 911 GT3 RS!
Renault is due to launch its new 5th generation Clio hatchback in South Africa in 2021. Apart from being offered with a new E-Tech Hybrid powertrain with a 1.6-litre turbopetrol engine and 2 electric motors (for Europe), other potential engine choices include a naturally-aspirated 1.0-litre engine with either 48 kW or 56 kW as well as a new 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with 73 kW and 160 Nm which could be paired with either a CVT or 5-speed manual transmission. A range-topping 1.3-litre turbopetrol engine with 95 kW and 260 Nm is also a possibility in conjunction with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Local specifications will be confirmed closer to launch.
Toyot’s new locally-built Corolla Cross is due soon and it will come powered by a familiar 1.8-litre petrol engine, producing 103 kW and 177 Nm. Toyota will also be offering a hybridized version, which adds an electric motor to the powertrain, producing 54 kW and 163 Nm, in conjunction with a mild tune of the 1.8-litre petrol engine, set at 73 kW and 142 Nm. The Corolla Cross will be offered locally but will also be exported to more than 43 countries in Africa.
With the Golf GTI now in SA, many Golf fans will be eagerly awaiting the arrival of the potent Golf 8 R towards the end of 2021. The Golf 8 R – officially the fastest, most powerful series-production Golf to date – is powered by a 235 kW/420 Nm “Evo 4” 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbopetrol and is said to sprint from 0 to 100 kph in 4.7 sec courtesy of its revised Haldex-type all-wheel-drive system. Pricing for the Golf 8 R will be revealed closer to launch.
Nissan South Africa has expanded its Navara range which now includes the single cab body style in addition to the Navara double-cab bakkie which was introduced earlier this year.
Now, Nissan’s local Navara range has been expanded to include single cab derivatives which are ready to get to work with a payload of up to 1 144kg.
What engines are offered for the Navara single-cab bakkie?
The Nissan Navara single-cab bakkie can be had with either a petrol or diesel engine under the bonnet.
The naturally-aspirated 2.5-litre petrol engine offers 118 kW and 233 Nm and is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. This engine is offered in base XE trim only and is the most affordable derivative in the range.
Those who seek diesel power can opt for the 2.5-litre turbodiesel engine with 140 kW and 450 Nm which is also paired with a 6-speed manual transmission and offered across 3 trim lines including the base XE, mid-spec SE and top-spec SE.
The American company’s latest Tourneo Connect is very much a VW Caddy 2021 clone. That means this Ford uses the VW MQB platform, with all its advanced engineering benefits.
Ford’s design team has tried to give the VW-platform Tourneo Connect some separate identity with its grille design and unique wheel options.
The core engineering details are an interesting blend of Ford powertrains and VW platform.
Engine options are either the 1.5-litre EcoBoost turbopetrol, good for 85 kW and 220 Nm, or two 2-litre turbodiesels, boosting 82 kW/280 Nm or 90 kW/320 Nm.
Pairing these engines to their drive wheels, are a six-speed manual gearbox or seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. Don’t think for a moment that the latter is a VW DSG, as Ford specifically references the seven-speed dual-clutch being its own PowerShift transmission.
With the move to VW’s MQB platform, the new Tourneo Connect is the first of its lineage to offer all-wheel-drive. Interestingly, the all-wheel-drive option is only available with a six-speed manual gearbox and the more potent 2-litre turbodiesel engine.
It is unclear whether this all-wheel-drive system is VW 4Motion or a Ford development.
Infotainment has been an area of traditional Ford strength. Its various iterations of Sync have been excellent device pairing systems. Strangely, Sync (or any of its versions) isn’t mentioned once in all the technical information relating to Ford’s new Tourneo Connect.
Ford has confirmed that two infotainment screen options will be available: an 8.25-inch on entry-level versions and the 10-inch on mid-to premium-grade Tourneo Connects. The unanswered question is whether this new Ford MPV uses VW’s latest-generation infotainment system or a hybrid version of Sync.
There is mention of the FordPass Connect feature and FordPass Pro smartphone apps, but nothing about which coding it uses to master the infotainment.
There are no current plans for Ford South Africa to introduce the new Tourneo Connect in South Africa at this stage. However, should plans change, we will keep you updated!
Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series (2021) Specs & Price Announced
Mercedes-Benz SA has quietly loaded up the hardcore AMG GT Black Series specifications and pricing. Here’s how much you can expect to pay for the ultimate road-going AMG vehicle!
Black Series is the name given to the highest tier of AMG products. AMG products themselves are already fast and performance-focused, but when given the Black Series treatment, things are dialled up to 11! Despite recent news that suggests the AMG GT coupe and cabriolet range will be ending by December 2021 to make way for the all-new Mercedes-Benz SL, the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series has quietly snuck into SA with reports of the first units making their way to the new owners.
This is not your run-of-the-mill AMG GT that has been given a wing and a bit more power. Mercedes-Benz has endowed the motor with a flat-plane crankshaft, new camshafts and exhaust manifolds, a dry-sump configuration and revised firing order in addition to beefing up the twin-scroll turbochargers and intercoolers. As a result, the engine revs to 7 200 rpm, and produces 537 kW from 6 700 to 6 900 rpm and 800 Nm of torque from 2 000 to 6 000 rpm – which represent improvements of 107 kW and 100 Nm respectively on the Mercedes-AMG GT R (430 kW/700 Nm).
The M178 LS2 powerplant is mated with a 7-speed dual-clutch AMG Speedshift transmission, which Benz has recalibrated to deliver more intense shifts (as suited to a track environment), and the copious torque is directed to the rear 20-inch lightweight forged-alloy wheels via a 40% lighter carbon-fibre torque tube.
Mercedes-AMG says the GT Black Series can dispatch the 0-100 kph sprint in 3.2 seconds, hit 200 kph in less than 9 seconds, and go on to reach a top speed 325 kph. Its wheels are wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres and, for improved stopping power, the newcomer features enlarged drilled and vented carbon-ceramic discs with 6-piston black-painted calipers up front and 4-piston units at the rear. There’s a trick traction control yellow dial mounted in the centre of the dash that offers 9 settings. Then there’s that look. It resembles one of the GT3 racecars, but these wings and splitters are functional and adjustable.
Mercedes-Benz SA has loaded the new AMG GT Black Series into its configurator and we get an idea of what’s on offer. Note that this is a Black Series, so personalisation options are minimal with the vehicles already coming to showrooms pretty loaded as far as standard specification goes. From the configurator, you can choose from an array of colours. Some are no-cost options, while the AMG Magmabeam orange costs R151 400. The matte-grey Designo Selenite Magno is R46 600 for example.
Standard spec includes the AMG Track Package comprising a titanium roll bar, 4-point seat belts. You also get the AMG Exterior Carbon package as standard, as well as Keyless Go, front camera, reversing camera, automatically dimming mirrors, electric folding exterior mirrors, AMG performance steering wheel in Dinamica microfibre, Blind Spot Assist, and Lane Keeping Assist. Given the exclusivity of these Black Series products, there aren’t going to be many around. A source close to Cars.co.za reckons around 12 units are coming to South Africa.
An interesting option for R934k gets you the P One edition, complete with a special model badge, unique interior, AMG wheels with green pinstriping, and a very special two-tone paint finish.
The Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series P One Edition
How much does the AMG GT Black Series cost in South Africa?
Is it the end of the road for the Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe? A report says production of the German supercar will come to an end in December 2021.
According to Spanish outlet Motor.Es, production of the Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe will come to an end in December 2021 and the order books have already closed. While nothing official has been confirmed by Mercedes-AMG itself, the brand’s track record of launching of Black Series derivative is followed by the end of production.
With the flagship Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series out and about, and a few confirmed for South Africa, the writing is on the wall. The Mercedes-AMG GT has been quite the car for the German carmaker. Designed as a rival to the ultra-successful Porsche 911, it couldn’t quite match the heritage, but it ran Stuttgart’s finest very close as far as performance went. With its incredible looks and the 4.0-litre biturbo petrol V8 on duty, this was a special vehicle. There were quite a few derivatives on offer, catering for all needs. You could get a base coupe, a stylish cabriolet as well as some hardcore track-focused monsters.
The Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe also proved to be a great platform to show off just how versatile that V8 engine was. In its lowest state of tune, you had 345 kW on tap. Before the Black Series was unveiled, the performance AMG GT R Pro packed 430 kW. With some substantial modifications under the bonnet, including a flat-plane crankshaft, the AMG GT Black Series punched out 537 kW!
Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe to be replaced by SL?
So, where to from here? We do not know if there will be a successor to the AMG GT coupe/convertible. We do know the 4-door will be around for a bit longer, evidenced by the launch of the first AMG performance plug-in hybrid. The Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E sounds ballistic, thanks to its 4.0-litre biturbo V8 with electrical assistance, delivering a crazy 620 kW and 1 400 Nm.
What if you were aiming for a two-door stylish yet sporty Mercedes-Benz product? We have good news as the all-new Mercedes-Benz SL is almost ready to be revealed and we expect the covers to be whipped off before the end of 2021, if not sooner. As before, there’ll be an assortment of powertrains on offer, including flagship AMG offerings. There’s no South African ETA on the new Mercedes-Benz SL, but if you’re after a special two-door coupe, then dive into our listings for a low-mileage AMG GT.
But what if good isn’t good enough? Toyota Racing Development (TRD) offers enhancements parts that give the new NX some extra sporting appeal.
The front of the NX remains mostly the same except for the fitment of a TRD spoiler which beefs up the look appreciably but is also said to improve aerodynamics and aid steering response. The NX further benefits from flared side skirts and sportier mirror housings while at the rear, customers can opt for a striking diffuser as well as quad sports exhaust system. The look is further complemented with optional, lightweight 20-inch aluminum gunmetal wheels. Other performance-enhancing bits include performance dampers and underbody bracing.
When will the new Lexus NX reach South Africa?
Earlier this year, Lexus South Africa confirmed that the 2022 NX will arrive in South Africa early in 2022. While local pricing and specification have yet to be confirmed, buyers can expect the NX to be offered with either a naturally-aspirated 2.5-litre engine, a turbocharged 2.4-litre petrol engine and a NX Hybrid derivative. Other markets also offer a Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) derivative but it’s not likely to reach SA.
The updated Abarth 595 range has touched down in South Africa. Here’s how much you will pay for these entertaining little performance hatchbacks.
The Stellantis Group has announced the updated Abarth 595 range has gone on sale in South Africa. For those who weren’t aware, the Abarth 595 is essentially the hottest and most performance-focused derivative. The recipe is simple, take the city-slicker Fiat 500 (itself refreshed for 2021) and insert go-faster parts, shove in a turbocharged engine and replace the Fiat logo with that of the Abarth scorpion.
Updated Abarth 595 Changes
The updated model features upgraded cabins, there’s a new colour palette plus there’s the introduction of a wild-looking Abarth Yamaha Monster special edition.
The Abarth 595 comes well specced, with niceties like a flat-bottomed steering wheel, updated dashboard and the turbo pressure gauge is now lit in white, which Abarth claims means it’s easier to read. Sport mode is now known as Scorpion mode, and there’s a new dashboard covered in Alcantara, as well as new-look leather seats and a carbon fibre gear knob. Competizione models gain polyelliptical headlights as well as LED daytime running lights as standard. All models in the updated Abarth 595 range feature the Uconnect infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
The array of new colours is impressive, with Abarth playing the heritage card. Rally blue is a matte finish which is said to be inspired by the Fiat 131 Abarth Rally car from 1970, while the 17-inch alloy wheels are a tribute to that of the Lancia Delta Rally Integrale.
As far as engines go, something this wicked-looking needs the powerplant to match. The 1.4-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder is available in two states of tune: 121 kW for the 595 Turismo and 132 kW for the Competizione. Customers have the choice of a 5-speed manual gearbox or an Abarth sequential transmission with shift paddles.
Sitting at the top of the range is the Abarth 595 Monster Energy Yamaha. It’s a limited edition model with just 2 000 units made. It features a two-tone blue and black exterior with Monster Energy and Yamaha MotoGP branding. Inside there are model-specific sports seats, a race-car inspired flat-bottomed steering wheel as well as a Record Monza active exhaust system. Under the skin is a Koni suspension system with adaptive damping. The infotainment system also features a telemetry system.
How much does the updated Abarth 595 cost in South Africa?
Ford Ranger Raptor Special Edition (2021) Specs & Price
Ford is introducing a Ranger Raptor Special Edition in South Africa and pricing and specification have appeared on the firm’s local website.
The Ranger Raptor sits at the pinnacle of the popular Ranger lineup in South Africa and a new range-topper has now been confirmed to arrive locally before the end of 2021.
The Ranger Raptor Special Edition will come to market in limited numbers to ensure exclusivity and it will be sold alongside the standard Raptor and it will feature a number of exterior and interior styling enhancements that will set it apart from its stablemate.
Key Features
The Ranger Raptor Special Edition adds a range of exclusive exterior and interior details.
The Ranger Raptor Special Edition will be offered in either Sea Grey, Frozen White, Blue Lightning and Agate Black body colours, complemented with matte black racing stripes with contrasting red edging seen on the bonnet, roof, lower side body, rear wings and tailgate. The front tow hooks are also finished in red.
The look is further enhanced with a matte black grille finish which is also extended to the wheel arches, front and rear bumpers and door handles. The Ranger Raptor Special Edition also gains a black integrated sports hoop as well as a lockable Mountain Top black roller shutter, which is also a feature on the recently introduced Ranger Thunder.
On the inside, the special Ranger Raptor gains red stitching found on the steering wheel, instrument panel and door panel finishes. Leather upholstery is standard and a Raceway Grey instrument panel is exclusive to the Ranger Raptor Special Edition.
The Ranger Raptor Special Edition is mechanically identical to the standard Ranger Raptor which means that it retains the familiar 2.0-litre bi-turbocharged diesel engine with 157 kW and 500 Nm and comes mated with Ford’s 10-speed automatic transmission.
The Ranger Raptor is a formidable offroad vehicle with a specialised suspension system comprising front aluminium double wishbones and a multilink rear suspension with FOX shock absorbers with position-sensitive damping. The Raptor exhibits a 150 mm wider track and stands some 51 mm taller than a standard Ranger. General Grabber AT3 all-terrain tyres are also fitted as standard.
How much does the Ford Ranger Raptor Special Edition Cost in South Africa?
Ford Ranger Raptor Special Edition – From R965 300
The Ford Ranger Raptor Special Edition is sold with a 4-year/120 000 km warranty and a 6-year/90 000 km service plan.
Toyota South Africa welcomes the Rumion to the local market which is the 3rd Toyota-badged Suzuki product. See specs and pricing for the Toyota Rumion below!
At first glance, the Toyota Rumion looks a lot like the current generation of Suzuki Ertiga – that’s because it is. We were alerted to a social media post by a Toyota SA dealership. Halfway Toyota Fourways shared a post detailing a starting price for the all-new Toyota Rumion.
We did have an inkling that something was afoot as internationally, Toyota India was contemplating replacing its ageing Avanza with a newer product. As a reminder, Suzuki and Toyota have an arrangement that sees some products switch sides. We’ve seen it already with the Toyota Urban Cruiser and Suzuki Vitara Brezza, as well as the Toyota Starlet and Suzuki Baleno. The deal is rather complex, so read about its intricacies here.
Our Toyota Avanza Suzuki article in the middle of 2021 suggested that the Suzuki Ertiga will be given the badge-switch treatment, and it will sit underneath the Toyota Innova. That model is no longer offered in South Africa, so we suspect the Ertiga will be rebadged as the new Toyota Avanza – a popular and affordable MPV. As before, we expect there to be no mechanical differences, with some slight cosmetic changes inside and out in order to differentiate it from its donor car.
Toyota Rumion lineup
Toyota offers 3 trim grades for the new Rumion.
The Toyota Rumion is available in three specification levels, namely S, SX and TX. S-grade features black exterior mirrors and radiator grille, colour-coded bumpers and high-mounted LED brake light. The interior is finished in cloth with a urethane steering wheel, a 60/40 split-folding second row seating. The air-conditioning system flows through the cupholders allowing for heated or cooled beverages. A 12-volt power outlet, electric windows, tilt-adjustable steering column and air-conditioner are also provided. The S model is shod with 15-inch steel wheels.
The mid-tier SX adds colour-coded door handles, colour-coded foldable mirrors with electric adjustment, chrome treatment for the radiator grille and a rear-window wiper. Remote central locking, a rear-window demister, additional rear 12-volt power outlet, steering wheel controls, park distance control and rear air-conditioner are also added to the SX. This model gets the same 15-inch wheels as the S but has stylised hubcaps over the steel.
The top-spec TX model offers customers an upgrade to keyless entry with push start, chrome door handles, fog lamps and automatic air-conditioner. The audio system is upgraded from a double-din (which features Bluetooth, USB and Aux connections) to a touchscreen, which brings with it a reverse camera and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality, while the speaker tally is increased to six. The TX also features a ‘wood-trim finish’ on the instrument panel. The TX exterior is also updated with 15-inch alloy wheels while all models are equipped with a full-size spare wheel.
The Toyota Rumion reproduces the Suzuki Ertiga engine, meaning a 1.5-litre producing 77 kW and 138 Nm. Customers will have a choice of a 5-speed manual gearbox or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Fuel consumption is claimed at 6.2L/100 km.
In terms of safety, all models come with a driver and passenger airbag, ABS, EBD and ISOFIX points. An immobiliser is fitted as standard as well.
How much does the Toyota Rumion cost in South Africa?
