New Electric Cars for SA in 2022

The shift towards electric mobility is gaining momentum and many manufacturers are looking to the future and introducing electric vehicles (EVs) to the mass market. While electric cars aren’t as common in South Africa as in other parts of the world, things are changing steadily… Here are the major electric car introductions that you can expect to see in South Africa in the near future.

Vast distances, lack of charging infrastructure, range anxiety and the prohibitively high purchase prices of electric vehicles are likely to remain key factors that will continue to stifle the adoption of electric cars in South Africa for the foreseeable future.

However, the wheel is slowly turning and rapid technological developments in terms of fast charging, improved electric vehicle range, design and integration are addressing these concerns. The Jaguar Powerway (in partnership with GridCars) which was the result of a R30-million investment has made a significant difference in bolstering new charging infrastructure in major hubs and along major holiday routes across South Africa. Furthermore, brands such as BMW and Nissan have also collaborated to increase access to public charging infrastructure across the country.

If you haven’t yet done so, watch and listen to our Podcast: Will electric cars work in South Africa?

Earlier this year, the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition released an Auto Green Paper on the Advancement of New Energy Vehicles in South Africa, laying the foundation for South Africa to gear up for local electric vehicle (EV) production. The Auto Green Paper is the first step in the process of developing the roadmap towards local EV and EV component production. Watch this space!

Also see: Is it time for South Africa to Switch to EVs?

If you want to buy an electric car in South Africa today, your choices are currently limited to the BMW i3 and BMW iX, Mini Cooper SE. Jaguar I-Pace, Porsche Taycan (as well as the Taycan Cross Turismo). and the Volvo XC40 Recharge. In 2022, however, a host of new EV products are due to arrive in South Africa (see below).

With fuel prices consistently rising, demand for electric cars might very well be at the start of a long upward trajectory in the medium to long-term and the arrival of the following products in coming months might be the start of a major shift in public perception towards electric mobility.

Electric Cars Coming to South Africa in 2022

Audi e-tron SUV / e-tron Sportback / e-tron GT – Q1 2022

Orders are now open for the Audi e-tron range expected early in 2022. Customers can choose between 3 core e-tron models including the e-tron SUV, e-tron Sportback and e-tron GT.

The e-tron 55 SUV (advanced and s line) offers a total output of 300 kW and 664 Nm and uses a 95 kWh battery system to deliver a range between 369 and 440 km according to WLTP. Zero to 100 kph is claimed in 5.7 seconds.

The e-tron 55 Sportback packs the same battery and output as the above e-tron 55 SUV but features a slightly better range of between 372 and 453 km.

If you want more oomph, you might want to consider the e-tron S Sportback with 370 kW and 973 Nm. I twill dash from zero to 100 kph in just 4.5 seconds and offer a range of between 347 and 378 km.

As for the stylish e-tron GT, it delivers 350 kW and 630 Nm and makes use of a 93.4 kWh battery to deliver a range of between 433 to 472 km. the e-tron GT will sprint from zero to 100 kph in 4.5 seconds.

But that’s not all because there will be a more potent RS e-tron GT on offer too with no less than 440 kW and 830 Nm which will provide rapid acceleration from zero to 100 kph in only 3.6 seconds. Range is claimed at between 433 and 472 km for this derivative.

Also see: ICE Audi Cars in SA Until 2033

Buy a used Audi on Cars.co.za

Mercedes-Benz EQA / EQB / EQC / EQS – Mid 2022

Mercedes-Benz will launch a flurry of new EV products in 2022 including the EQA, EQB, EQC and the EQS.

The EQA is an all-electric version of the brand’s GLA and there will be multiple derivatives of EQA to come, but the EQA 250 is likely to arrive first. Under the bonnet, there’s a 140 kW electric motor, which gives the EQA a range of 486 km based on the NEDC cycle. For those wanting more, there’ll be an all-wheel drive model, as well as models that have over 200 kW and long-distance versions that are said to offer at least 500 km.

The EQB was revealed in April 2021 and unlike other Merc EV products, it’s a 7-seater! Multiple versions of the EQB will be available including front- and all-wheel-drive versions. Different power outputs will be available too, with European derivatives exceeding 200 kW. Range is claimed at about 420km.

The Mercedes-Benz EQC will be powered by a pair of electric motors, combining to deliver 300 kW and 765 Nm of torque. There’s a motor on the front axle and a second at the rear, making it an all-wheel-drive vehicle. The Mercedes-Benz EQC is expected to offer a range of 450 km.

Merc’s EV offensive will be topped off with the ultra-luxurious, flagship EQS which will be initially offered as either the EQS 450+ with 245 kW or the EQS 580 4MATIC with 385 kW. Range is claimed at up to 770 km (WLTP).

Note that exact South African model specification and pricing details are not yet known and this information will be communicated closer to launch.
Buy a used Mercedes-Benz on Cars.co.za

BMW iX3 and i4 – Q2 2022

BMW’s local electric car portfolio is due to expand with the introduction of the iX3 SUV and i4 sedan, both of which are due to arrive in the second quarter of 2022.

The iX3 is essentially an electrified version of the firm’s popular X3 SUV. Powering the 2022 BMW iX3 is an electric motor that’s packaged with the gearbox and electronics in one single housing. Outputs are rated at 210 kW and 400 Nm, and BMW says its updated iX3 is good for a 0-100 kph of just 6.8 seconds. Power consumption is said to be 18.9 – 18.5 kWh/100 km and the vehicle has a range of 460 km based on the WLTP cycle. Fast-charging is available and a 10-minute charge from a 150 kW charger will give you around 100 km of range.

As for the i4 eDrive40 sedan, it will offer 250 Nm and 430 Nm with a claimed range of around 483 km using an 83.9 kWh battery and a zero to 100 kph sprint time of about 5.9 seconds. There is a possibility that BMW will offer an i4 M50 derivative with at least 400 kW and a zero to 100kph sprint capability of 3.9 seconds but with a reduced range of 394 km.

Buy a used BMW on Cars.co.za

Arctic Trucks makeover for Land Cruiser 300

Much bigger tyres and more clearance, for the lavish ‘Cruiser

Toyota’s Land Cruiser 300 is hugely capable. But what if you need a bit more?

The reliable folks at Arctic Trucks have developed an upgrade kit for the 300, with predictably impressive results.

With its traditional ladder-frame platform and lack of air-suspension, upgrading Toyota’s Land Cruiser 300 is an easier task than some other luxury SUVs. With unibody structures.

Big wheels are a theme of utility with Arctic Trucks and the 300 looks like it was always designed to roll those huge 35-inch tyres, mounted on sensible 17-inch rims. Reshaped fender extensions and mudflaps ensure adequate room for the huge tyres.

Supporting the enhanced mechanical traction of those massive tyres, are some suspension modifications. With the change in unsprung weight, due to those enormous tyres, Arctic Trucks have upgraded the front and rear suspension with different dampers and springs.

Where the Arctic Trucks technical expertise comes into play, is calibrating those suspension upgrades to remain within the functional threshold of Land Cruiser 300’s KDSS system. And its off-road traction control algorithms.

But what are the true off-road geometry gains? The Arctic Trucks 300 has a 320 mm wider tracking width – something that could be an issue on narrow off-road trails.

The most significant benefit is 40 mm of additional ride height, giving the Arctic Trucks 300 270 mm ground clearance when edging over obstacles.

Approach and departure angles also gain an impressive 5-degrees at either end of the Arctic Trucks 300. This should enable drivers to confidently venture into challenging and rocky terrain without the risk of leaving bumpers behind on the trail.

Toyota Hilux Gets GDV Racing Treatment

Local rally legend, Giniel de Villiers, together with 4×4 Mega World has developed a custom accessory package for the Toyota Hilux. See what’s available below…

Toyota Hilux owners who want to give their double-cab bakkie a new, purposeful look can now consider a new selection of accessories tailored by Giniel de Villiers and 4×4 Mega World.

“The idea with the GDV Racing Toyota Hilux is to offer enthusiasts the opportunity to live their passion. To my eyes, the bakkie is clearly non-standard, but it doesn’t feature any custom bodywork. This gives the car a stylish yet rugged appearance, and together with the changes under the skin, will set this vehicle apart from the regular Toyota Hilux” says De Villiers.

The GDV Racing treatment is offered in 3 tiers, depending on what a Hilux owner wants to achieve.

The first tier is essentially a basic decal kit (with signed Giniel de Villiers decals inside and out) while the second tier adds a stainless steel nudge bar, stainless steel roll bar, ARB intensity lights and Takla seat covers with GDV Racing embroidery.

The third top tier further adds 17-inch Dirty Life alloy wheels shod with 265/70R17 S/T Cooper Max Tyres as well as an adjustable Old Man Emu BP51 suspension system, the latter of which lifts the ride height by 50 mm while the dampers provide enhanced performance offroad.

As part of the deal, buyers will also receive a GDV Racing cap signed by Giniel de Villiers as well as a pair of GDV Racing Oakley sunglasses. The GDV Racing kits are available from selected 4×4 Mega World outlets countrywide.

“The GDV Racing kits can be fitted to either new double-cab bakkies or to cars that have been on the road for some time. We are treating this as a limited edition, however, so prospective buyers should make contact with us sooner rather than later” says Kurt Brunner, head of Business Development at 4×4 Mega World.

Buy a used Toyota Hilux on Cars.co.za

New Ford Ranger Accessories Detailed

The all-new Ford Ranger is out in the open and attention now turns to its comprehensive accessories on offer.

The aftermarket accessories business is big money and naturally, the carmakers want to capitalise on that. With the launch of the all-new Ford Ranger, the Blue Oval said it had been working on a detailed catalogue of add-ons for its new bakkie.

While we’ve yet to hear from Ford South Africa in this regard, Ford Australia has already shared images of the goodies on offer. Divided into three categories of 4×4, camping and touring, these upgrades give the new Ranger a solid level of personalisation.

For the offroad enthusiasts, there’s a steel front bumper, red tow hooks (similar to those on the current Ranger Raptor), front skid plate, colour-coded bull bar, LED spotlights and a snorkel. Ford has worked with offroad specialists ARB to source some of these products.

More Info: All you need to know about the SA-built new Ford Ranger.

Other images show a Ford Ranger with front-wheel arch protection, steel rock sliders, and a black sportsbar with a roof rack.

On the touring side of things, there’s a steel ARB front bumper, LED light bar as well as a protection bar in front of the grille, finished in matte black.

For the camping enthusiasts, a rooftop tent, bed canopy and sports bar are on offer.

These images are just the start of the Ford Ranger accessories program and while Ford will do its best to offer its own factory warranty-backed items, there’s no doubt the aftermarket industry will kick off with its own gadgets and gizmos.

As a reminder, the all-new Ford Ranger will be built in Pretoria, South Africa, both for local consumption and the export market. Its engines will come from Gqeberha, South Africa – boosting the local economy. The new Ranger will go on sale in 2022, with the order books opening in the 2nd quarter.

This week’s news you need to know (December 2021, week 1)

In this week’s automotive news you need to know: VWSA comes out guns blazing with new models for 2022, BMW’s design department appears to be overdoing the “creativity boosters”, bakkie special-edition season is well underway and Toyota brings customisation in-house, for the Corolla Cross, of all cars.

Volkswagen’s big reveal in 2022 – Big bang theory

It seems like the South African subsidiary of the German Giant has been shaken from its slumber by the rumble of new models from the East being rolled out of container ships docked at our nation’s ports (with Haval and Hyundai’s wares leading the charge). Volkswagen’s awakening has predictably been followed by a comprehensive response that leaves nothing to chance; the Wolfsburg-based brand’s line-up of new models for 2022 covers virtually all the bases it needs to. It’s a tactical move to ward off threats, protect an existing customer base and attract new business going forward, but what if?

What if recent successes of up-and-coming brands like Haval, which has set the blueprint for other emerging (mostly Chinese) manufacturers to follow, is creating more than just a hindrance for VW? Other established brands will also be concerned by the SUV brand’s competitive pricing and strengthening reputation. South Africans are brand-loyal and VW arguably has the most devoted following of all, but at what point will brand loyalty no longer rule buying behaviour? As affordability becomes all-important (and VW’s unlikely to be a frontrunner in that regard), that moment may happen sooner rather than later.

BMW Concept XM – The design debacle intensifies…

I’ve read that the practice of ingesting micro-dosages of hallucinogenic mushrooms (they’re all-natural and aren’t meant to be consumed recreationally or habitually – before someone gets the wrong idea) has been a popular – if taboo – method of unlocking original ideas in creative or artistic people for some time. Studies have shown it to work when a stale design concept, for example, needs invigoration, but perhaps the designers at BMW have got their micro-dosages a little wrong of late and, as a consequence, extended their minds way beyond the known universe to come up with new creations. I jest, of course.

Long-standing fans of Chris Bangle-era BMW designs (from the Noughties), let alone those who loved the boxy brilliance of Claus Luthe’s creations (from the Eighties) – and everything in between – have abandoned this new age of BMW design. They’ve opted to collect and cherish older Bimmers and reminisce about an era that has long since passed; as if to lock themselves in time capsules. I do feel for them as they’ve been fiercely loyal to the Bavarian brand, but I appreciate BMW’s eagerness to challenge the status quo under the leadership of the BMW Group’s design chief Adrian van Hooydonk and his new(ish) lieutenant, BMW Design head Domagoj Dukec. The Concept XM demonstrates that BMW’s future is bold, fearless and unsubtle. You can either jump aboard or get left behind – it’s up to you.

Isuzu X-Rider Limited Edition – If you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em

South African manufacturers have well and truly embraced the “special edition” trend as they strive tirelessly to squeeze as much “bottom line” from ageing products as they can. The word “special” seems incongruous when applied to an 8-year-old model, even one that served its manufacturer well. We all know it’d be cheaper to buy a standard derivative and kit it out yourself (to make it even more special).

Read more: Isuzu releases D-Max X-Rider LTD

Production of the new-generation D-Max will start soon and, to Isuzu Motors SA’s credit, the Gqeberha-based firm has spent considerable time and effort to develop the bakkie to be better suited for local conditions (as opposed to its Mazda BT-50 cousin, which is imported from Thailand). But perhaps, instead of cooking up yet another Limited Edition of old faithful, it should have taken whatever market, design and manufacturing budget it could scrounge to maximise the new bakkie’s prospects in a cutthroat segment. Who knows, Isuzu might have unlocked more profit than a special edition ever could.

Toyota Cross customisation – Custom, papi!

The world of automotive after-market customisation is one of extremes; it features products that have been enhanced with tasteful, high-quality adornments that add appreciable cosmetic value… and then you get products that have been plastered with cheap knock-off bits and pieces, many of which seem bolted on haphazardly. The first follows a rather rigorous and thorough process of design, quality control, testing and problem-solving by specialist companies. The latter merely looks incredibly tacky, probably devalues your car and encourages more companies to make even tackier parts. It’s a mess.

Toyota and other manufacturers are now bringing aftermarket customisation in-house. On the one hand, well-chosen accessories do add to a model’s distinctiveness (dealers especially love it when buyers specify extras on their vehicle orders). On the other hand, I wish that manufacturers would rather ensure that their core products are quality propositions, as opposed to diluting what they can bring to the market by relying on “the icing” to secure buyers’ signatures. I understand there is money to be made, but I’d prefer better cars rolling off the production line. Leave customisation to the specialists, I say.

Bakkie 0-100-0 Testing – Hilux vs Ranger vs Amarok vs Navara vs P-Series vs BT-50

Braking is extremely important for bakkies, but it isn’t ever tested properly. We lined up 6 of SA’s top double-cab 4×4 bakkies to see which one brakes the best in this 0-100 kph and back to 0 shootout.

We lined up 6 of South Africa’s most popular bakkies (pick-ups) and headed far into the interior of the country, where we found a salt plan flatter than a snooker table.

It was the perfect place to stage a 6 bakkie drag race, and if you haven’t watched that video, you absolutely have to.

In this video, we used the opportunity afforded by miles and miles of nothing to do some more scientific testing of the vehicles. 0-100-0km/h testing is a great way of judging a vehicles acceleration and braking force combined. We repeated the process in all 6 bakkies, with Ashley Oldfield behind the wheel and GPS for accuracy and to counteract any speedo error in the different bakkies. Our video guy Ciro De Siena rode shotgun in each car to do the timing.

The result is the video you’ve landed on, and we hope you enjoy it!

Land Rover Discovery (2021) Review

The Land Rover Discovery’s biggest competition has come from within its own stable in the form of the new Defender. Land Rover has, therefore, looked to further differentiate the 2 models by repositioning the Discovery as a more premium offering. We tested the new D300 R-Dynamic SE derivative.

We like: Range Rover-like levels of luxury, acres of space, D300 delivers excellent performance.

We don’t like: Priced above its rivals, still quite thirsty.

Fast Facts:

Model tested: Land Rover Discovery D300 R-Dynamic SE
Price: R1 623 180 (November 2021)
Engine: 3.0-litre straight 6-cylinder turbodiesel
Power/Torque: 221 kW and 650 Nm
Transmission: 8-speed auto
Fuel efficiency: 7.4 L/100 km (claimed)
0-100 kph: 6.8 sec (estimated)
Load capacity: 258–1 231–2 500 litres

Serious about buying?

Some Land Rover dealerships regularly offer great deals. See our Car Specials here!

Why the facelift?

Even with the facelift, the Discovery’s strange offset rear numberplate remains.

Land Rover may be enjoying the global success of the new Defender, but the Discovery is probably the model that has been hit hardest by the newcomer’s rampant popularity. The two models are quite similar in execution… The new Defender carries more gravitas when it comes to off-road prowess, but it nonetheless has an interior that’s upmarket enough to attract traditional premium SUV buyers.

In order to draw the buying public’s attention back to the Discovery nameplate, Land Rover has applied a facelift to the model – one that ramps up the interior execution more towards Range Rover-like levels of luxury. The Solihull-based brand has also introduced air suspension as standard fitment, which endows the new-look Discovery with a composed – and eminently comfortable – ride quality.

New straight-six turbopetrol and turbodiesel engines have also been installed to meet stricter European emissions standards. However, it’s the technology updates inside the Discovery that are easiest to spot, with the Pivi Pro infotainment system taking centre stage on the premium SUV’s fascia.

The hand that Land Rover has played here is logical, but the upgrade has pushed the Discovery well into the R1.5-million range, which means it comes at a premium over the likes of the Volvo XC90, BMW X5, Audi Q7 and even the Toyota Land Cruiser LC300. That said, Land Rover has always justified the Discovery’s higher sticker price based on the model’s brilliant versatility, so how does it fare now?

How does the Discovery fare in terms of…

On- and off-road ability

The Land Rover Discovery is the most capable SUV in its segment across varied surfaces.

There’s no doubt that the Discovery offers genuine dual-purpose ability, even if this generation model looks a little softer-edged than its predecessors. It’s more capable than ever with the best off-roading ability in its class; in truth, it’s the only premium SUV that you would actually consider taking on extended off-road trips. By contrast, the standard air suspension enhances the model’s on-road abilities too.

The big Disco does, however, feel its size in the city – executing slow-speed manoeuvres (in parking lots, for example) require a level of caution. The surround-view camera system does help in this respect, however, because the new infotainment system allows you to rotate the image of the car on the screen to see specific angles or objects – it’s a party trick that may prove very useful when off-roading too.

In terms of handling dynamics, the Land Rover is not as nimble as a BMW X5 or Audi Q7, but it’s not a wallowing hippo on the tarmac either; in fact, it’s more composed on-road than its Defender sibling. It’s a big SUV, but the air suspension adapts nicely to minimise bodyroll without compromising ride quality. Such lofty levels of on-road comfort make the Discovery well suited to undertaking long journeys.

Land Rover has made it its quest to make off-roading as hassle-free as possible with every new iteration of vehicle it produces. The Discovery has built-in Terrain Response – you activate it by pressing the rotary dial in the centre console, then waiting a second for it to raise up and then swivelling it to select the mode that matches the terrain you intend to tackle. Low range is easily selected with a simple press of a button beneath the rotary dial. The result is the most luxuriously capable off-roader currently on the market (the new Range Rover is due in 2022; its off-road prowess will finally eclipse that of the Disco).

Luxury and connectivity

Note the new Pivi Pro infotainment system and a new Defender-esque steering wheel.

The introduction of the new 11.4-inch Pivi Pro touchscreen infotainment system in this facelifted Discovery yields improvements in connectivity options, as well as the speed with which the hardware responds to inputs. The glass screen and hi-res display lift the cabin ambience and make the fascia look more contemporary.

It would be nice if Android Auto and Apple Carplay smartphone-mirroring technology were available wirelessly (you still require a cable connection), but with over-the-air software updates now available, such functionality could be “pushed” to the vehicle in the future without having to visit a dealer’s workshop to update the system.

A wireless charger is provided (in the storage bay beneath the climate controls), but it’s not a fast charger, to get an expedient charge-up you need to connect your smartphone (or another digital device) to the USB/USB C points around the cabin. You can spec loads of them too, including convenient ones on the rear of the front seats that allow for tablets to be charged as well as docked in place.

The Discovery is billed as a 7-seater that can actually accommodate 7 adults, in absolute comfort, which we can confirm because we had 6-foot-tall adult passengers seated in the Land Rover’s last row of seats for extended periods during this test. Seats are folded electrically via switches near the respective pews or via a cluster of switches located in the load bay.

While the latter takes the hassle out of manually dropping seats (especially when you want to drop both rows), the system can be a bit finicky with respect to the positions the seats are in when you decide to fold them remotely. If the system’s “not happy”, the seat will raise back into position, which is frustrating… because then you need to troubleshoot the problem!

The electric towbar and electrically deployable tailgate are useful with the latter capable of holding 300 kg, which is more than useful for having impromptu boot picnics. Speaking of the load bay, it’s no less than massive and, with all the rear seats folded down, you have access to the largest utility space in the segment (2 500 litres).

Engine performance

The new D300 power unit proved impressively effective at moving the big Discovery around at a brisk pace.

This is our first experience with one of Land Rover’s new straight-six powerplants. It produces healthy peak outputs of 221 kW and 650 Nm and it is allied with a 48V mid-hybrid system, which recoups power when slowing down and then redeploys it as torque to assist the Discovery when it accelerates from a standstill. It’s a very quiet motor; in fact, all you really hear from inside the cabin is a hint of wind noise.

The D300 power unit propels the sizeable Disco with more than sufficient gusto courtesy of its strong low-down torque, which continues to be delivered in a linear manner throughout the turbodiesel’s rev range. It makes for smooth progress and while the 8-speed automatic transmission isn’t quite as sharp as that of the X5, it’s still notably slick-shifting and effective at selecting the right gear at the right time.

An abundance of overtaking acceleration is a real strength of the new engine – you don’t get that kick of low down torque that tapers off quickly, which can leave you a bit exposed if you’re overtaking at speed. The acceleration is consistent and it hauls along the big-rig Land Rover with impressive speed. It’s easy to see how Land Rover could claim a 0-100 kph time of 6.8 sec for this derivative.

The combination of a new engine and a mild-hybrid setup was meant to make the facelifted Disco more fuel-efficient, but we didn’t find that the D300 R-Dynamic SE got anywhere near its claimed figure of 7.4 L/100 km. Looking back at our 2018 test of the pre-facelift Td6, we averaged 9.6 L/100 km in that model (190 kW/600 Nm), which is lower than the indicated 10.1L/100 km we achieved with this unit.

This must be caveated with the fact that our Discovery test unit mostly towed a bike rack while it was fully loaded with gear and it travelled up and down the steep Sir Lowrys pass on a daily basis. Make of that what you will, but the D300 R-Dynamic SE is likely to produce similar efficiency numbers to its predecessor, while offering more power and torque and much better driveability by comparison.

Price and after-sales support

The Land Rover Discovery D300 R-Dynamic SE retails for R1 623 180 (November 2021) and comes with a 5-year/100 000 km manufacturer warranty and maintenance plan.

Get a quote / Request a test drive

Verdict

It’s now an expensive proposition, but the Land Rover Discovery still represents one of the most luxurious ways to go off-road.

The updates to the new Land Rover Discovery push it further up the premium ladder as it tries to make a case for itself above its Defender sibling. It’s a more comfortable cruiser than the latter, easier to drive in the city and certainly more luxurious inside. Its exterior look isn’t quite as desirable as that of the Defender and the offset rear number plate design still looks a trifle strange to most eyes.

Meanwhile, the new D300 straight-six turbodiesel engine represents a welcome performance upgrade and provides equal – if not a little better – performance than the motors in the Discovery’s German rivals. With diesel engine technology unlikely to develop significantly during the next decade, this could remain the status quo for some time to come, which gives Land Rover a slight edge.

If you’re wearing your sensible cap and looking for a large family car that executes everything from on-road journeys to off-road excursions in a more comfortable, connected and practical manner than any other offering in the premium SUV category, you are likely to end up with a Land Rover Discovery every time. It’s an expensive proposition, but it lacks for absolutely nothing.

Isuzu releases D-Max X-Rider LTD

With the introduction of the 7th-generation D-Max mere months away, Isuzu Motors SA has released a trio of X-Rider Limited Edition derivatives of its current (8-year-old) bakkie, of which only 210 individually numbered units will be produced.

Following a R1.2-billion to upgrade its Struandale production facilities in Port Elizabeth (now known as Gqeberha) in 2019 and a delay of about a year owing to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, Isuzu will finally launch its all-new D-Max range in South Africa in March 2022.

But, before then, Isuzu will avail the X-Rider Limited Edition in 2.5 HO X-Rider LTD 4×2 5-speed manual, 2.5 HO X-Rider LTD 4×2 5 speed Auto and 3.0 X-Rider LTD 4×2 6 Speed Auto guises.

First introduced in 2016 as a special value model in the then KB range, the X-Rider became a permanent fixture of the Isuzu model line-up in Mzansi as well as in other African markets. Although the 6th-gen D-Max is a, well, seasoned campaigner in the market, Isuzu’s bakkie range has continued to sell well based on its solid value proposition and enviable reputation for durability and reliability.

From a South African market perspective, the D-Max is 8 years old, and it may surprise some readers to know it’s 2 years younger than the outgoing Ford Ranger! Incidentally, the Japanese marque sold less than 100 units than Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa in November.

ICYMI: New Ford Ranger officially revealed

X-Rider Limited Edition derivatives are distinguished by exclusive features such as blacked-out 18-inch alloy wheels, black roof rails, X-Rider Edition Limited-branded sports hoop and tailgate, a branded carpet set, as well as a standard load box roller-shutter.

“The X-Rider Limited Edition is a celebration of the success we’ve had with the 6th-generation D-Max (and) a vehicle that true Isuzu fans will be proud to own and keep as part of their garage,” Craig Uren, Isuzu Motors SA’s senior vice president of sales and marketing said this week.

“(It’s) the most robust and well-built example of the D-Max to date. This is a vehicle which will last a lifetime,” Dominic Rimmer, the firm’s senior vice president of technical operations, added.

The 250 HO versions are powered by the proven 2.5-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine that produces 100 kW at 3400 rpm and 320 Nm from 1800 to 2800 rpm. The 300’s 3.0-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel motor, in turn, delivers 130 kW at 3600 rpm and 380 Nm from 1800 to 2800 rpm.

The claimed combined cycle fuel consumption for the 2.5-litre derivatives is 7.7 L/100 km, with CO2 emissions of 203 g/km for the manual, Isuzu Motors SA claims. The 3.0-litre version’s combined cycle fuel consumption is said to be 7.5 L/100 km with CO2 emissions of 198 g/km.

All Isuzu D-Max derivatives come standard with a 5-year/120 000 km warranty and a 5-year/90 000 km service plan. Service intervals are every 15 000 km or 12 months.

Prices for the Isuzu D-Max X-Rider Limited Edition

250 HO D/C X-Rider LTD 4×2 M/T	R552 400
250 HO X-Rider LTD 4×2 A/T	R572 100
300 X-Rider LTD 4×2 A/T	R624 400

Mahindra Pik Up reduces manual labour

Mahindra has added more automatic transmissions to its popular Pik Up models. It’s now the cheapest double cab auto you can buy in SA.

Indian brand Mahindra has made healthy ground in the local market, mostly selling hard-working, rugged vehicles with the exception of the KUV100 and XUV300 small SUVs.

Sales have gone so well that the brand has crept into the top 10 selling brands in SA for November 2021 and will now offer more choice to buyers looking at an affordable double cab bakkie.

After the success of the S11 Automatic and S11 Automatic Karoo models, Mahindra has added the same auto option the S6 4×4 and 4×2 versions. The difference between S6 and S11 comes down to spec where the S11 caters more towards the lifestyle buyer with amenities such as on-board navigation, rear park distance control, rain sensing wipers, alloy wheels, multi-function steering wheel, Bluetooth, climate control and auto on/off lights.

Both the S6 and S11 automatics use the 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine producing 103 kW and 320 Nm of torque. Claimed fuel consumption is slightly higher for the autos than the manual – 9.3L/100 km vs 7.9L/100 km for the manual. The 80-litre fuel tank will do just over 800 km if you’re able to match the claimed consumption figure, where the manual will do more than 1 000 km per tank.

The S6 automatic Karoo derivative adds a little more comfort and style to the standard S6 range with alloy wheels, nudge bar, rear styling bar and a tonneau cover. Further to this Karooo models get colour-coded wheel arch mouldings and rain deflectors fitted to the doors.

Mahindra Pik Up Pricing (December 2021)

Mahindra Pik Up 2.2 mHawk DC 4×2 S6 AT Standard – R378 999

Mahindra Pik Up 2.2 mHawk DC 4×4 S6 AT Standard – R412 499

Mahindra Pik Up 2.2 mHawk DC 4×2 S6 AT Karoo Edition – R394 999

Mahindra Pik Up 2.2 mHawk DC 4×4 S6 AT Karoo Edition – R424 999

Maybach meets Geländewagen

Maybach is promising a luxury coupe for going anywhere.

Mercedes-Benz’s latest concept is part luxury coupe, part off-road touring vehicle.

Dubbed the Project Maybach, it looks toward the future of luxury motoring for Mercedes-Benz. All-terrain luxury motoring.

The Project Maybach is an electric vehicle play on the theme of raised ride height coupes, with true off-road touring ability.

Overall design proportions are imposing, with large flat surface areas and very few curves. This is offset by the round head and taillights, including a set of spotlights, at the front.

Project Maybach features a powerful shoulder line, that runs straight and uninterrupted front to rear. The side profile shows off its length and off-road tyres, designed to provide floatation and traction, across challenging terrain. And yes: those are steel wheels, finished in sand beige.

Much of the graphic design detail, including Project Maybach’s radical cabin architecture, was the work of Vigil Abloh – the iconic fashion designer who passed this week.

Inside this Maybach you’ll find two seats, with the passenger pew capable of folding flat, to serve as a storage or sleeping surface. The sand beige colour theme continues inside and the switchgear appears minimalist, although not wholly digitized.

At the edge of Project Maybach’s dashboard, where it meets the door panelling, there are two additional integrated storage cases at either side of the cabin.

The vehicle’s heavy-duty steel roof rack, framed by another series of spotlights, is where most of the spillover luggage, or spares, are supposed to go.

Mercedes-Benz has not confirmed any ba t tery or power output specification for Project Maybach. Nor has it divulged the suspension system or ground clearance. But it does look terrifically capable, rolling those huge all-terrain tyres and finished in a colourway that would not appear out of place on a Gelandenwagen.