The new Hyundai Exter is off to a solid start, with the brand’s most affordable crossover placing inside the top 20 of SA’s best-selling passenger cars in September 2024…
The new Hyundai Exter has only just arrived in South Africa, but it’s already made a significant impact, attracting as many as 453 sales in its (partial) launch month and helping the South Korean firm grab back 4th place from Ford in September 2024.
Though the Exter’s media launch took place only on 17 September 2024, we believe Hyundai dealerships around the country began receiving limited stock of the brand’s most-affordable crossover in the opening week of the month. In addition, it seems only mid-spec Executive derivatives have thus far arrived in Mzansi.
With 453 units sold, the Exter placed 18th on the list of SA’s best-selling passenger vehicles for the month, finishing ahead of well-established (though larger and more expensive) nameplates such as the Toyota Urban Cruiser (441 units) and Volkswagen T-Cross (409 units).
In September, Hyundai registered 441 units of the Exter via the dealer channel, with the remaining 12 sold to the rental industry. That made the newcomer Hyundai Automotive SA’s 2nd most popular product for the month, finishing behind the closely related Grand i10 (1 062 units, plus 64 Cargo panel-van sales) but ahead of the Venue (370 units) and i20 hatchback (303 units).
As a reminder, the local Exter range comprises 5 derivatives, starting at R269 900 and running through to R334 900. The Indian-built Exter is offered in a trio of grades: entry-level Premium, mid-tier Executive and top-spec Elite. All employ a naturally aspirated 1.2-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine, familiar from the Grand i10, i20 and Venue.
This “Kappa” motor delivers 61 kW and 114 Nm to the front axle. Premium and Executive derivatives are available with either a 5-speed manual gearbox or a 5-speed automated manual transmission (AMT), while the flagship Elite variant is offered exclusively with the latter cog-swapper. The manual version has a claimed fuel economy of 5.7 L/100 km, while the AMT’s listed figure is 5.9 L/100 km.
Revealed back in May 2023, the Exter employs the same platform as the Grand i10 hatchback and sedan twins, and is likewise produced at Hyundai’s plant in Sriperumbudur near Chennai. The boxy little crossover measures 3 815 mm long (the same length as the Grand i10 hatch), with a wheelbase of 2 450 mm, a width of 1 710 mm, a height of 1 631 mm (including roof rails) and a ground clearance of 185 mm.
For the record, that makes it around 180 mm shorter from nose to tail than the likes of the Venue, Nissan Magnite and Renault Kiger (and 166 mm stubbier than the CC21-generation Citroën C3, too), but about 115 mm longer than the diminutive Suzuki Ignis. The Exter’s luggage capacity comes in at a claimed 290 litres.
We first reported that the Exter was coming to South Africa back in May 2024, receiving confirmation from Hyundai Automotive SA after we discovered the company’s Seoul head office had applied to register the “Exter” badge in South Africa as early as October 2022. The local registration of this trademark took effect in December 2023.
GWM climbs! SA’s best-selling brands in September 2024
South Africa’s new-vehicle market suffered a 4.1% year-on-year drop in sales in September 2024. Here’s your market overview, including Mzansi’s most popular brands…
Though there’s still hope of improvements in the final quarter of the year, South Africa’s new-vehicle market didn’t manage to return to growth in September 2024, with sales falling 4.1% year on year to 44 081 units. Still, at least that tally represented a (marginal) 1.1% increase compared with August 2024’s effort.
Exports, meanwhile, fell a considerable 38.1% year on year in September to 21 964 units (the 2nd lowest total of 2024). Year to date, exports stand at 289 198 units, a significant drop of 19.7% compared with the same 9-month reporting period in 2023. Local domestic sales are also behind in the year-to-date race, with that tally currently sitting at 401 169 units (5.8% down).
Out of the total reported industry sales in September 2024, Naamsa estimated that 79% represented registrations via the dealer channel, while a hefty 15% were sales to the vehicle-rental industry, 3% to government and 2% to industry corporate fleets.
Again bucking the general market trend, the new passenger-vehicle segment grew 2% year on year to 30 218 units in September 2024, with the rental industry representing a whopping 28% of that total. Meanwhile, the light-commercial vehicle segment slipped 17.1% year on year to 10 914 registrations (a decline no doubt amplified by the discontinuation of the Nissan NP200).
Brandon Cohen, National Chairperson of the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA), said September 2024’s sales figures offered “hope that the market may be slowly turning”.
“Passenger-car sales are a key indicator of consumer sentiment and the positive growth in this segment for the 2nd consecutive month is encouraging. While the Reserve Bank’s first interest-rate cut in 4 years will take time to fully impact the market, we are already seeing other positive factors, including a stronger exchange rate, lower inflation, a positive 100-day performance by the Government of National Unity, increased foreign investment, 190 days without load-shedding and lower fuel prices. These are all promising signs,” Cohen said.
Lebo Gaoaketse, Head of Marketing and Communication at WesBank, added that though the interest-rate cut wasn’t quite enough to stimulate new-vehicle sales during September, it could potentially signal the “start of a cutting cycle over the next 18 months”.
“Cumulatively these cuts will begin to impact indebted consumers over time and provide some level of relief in expensive debt. However, the immediate effects are practically small; but philosophically provide a stimulus to the market in sentiment,” Gaoaketse explained.
New-vehicle sales summary for September 2024
Aggregate new-vehicle sales of 44 081 units decreased by 4.1% (1 889 units) compared to September 2023.
New passenger-vehicle sales of 30 218 units increased by 2.0% (112 units) compared to September 2023.
New light-commercial vehicle sales of 10 914 units decreased by 17.1% (2 257 units) compared to September 2023.
Export sales of 21 964 units decreased by 38.1% (13 535 units) compared to September 2023.
10 best-selling automakers in SA in September 2024
Hyundai climbed to 4th place in September.
For the 6th time in 2024, Toyota – which includes the Lexus and Hino brands – cracked 5 figures in a single month, selling 10 890 units in September. As such, the Japanese giant again found itself way out in front. Meanwhile, the Volkswagen Group (including the Audi brand) grew its sales 4.3% month on month to 5 885 units, retaining 2nd place and stretching its lead over Suzuki (5 023 units), which again grabbed the final spot on the podium.
With its best sales performance of 2024 thus far, Hyundai (2 841 units) gained a ranking to finish 4th, pushing Ford (2 823 units) down a place to 5th. Isuzu held steady in 6th spot with 1 960 registrations, while GWM (including the Haval brand) climbed 2 positions to 7th, finishing September 2024 on 1 740 units. That, too, was a 2024 best for the firm as well as its highest placing of the year so far.
Fellow Chinese company Chery (1 614 units) thus slipped a spot to 8th, while Renault (1 426 units) gained a place to end the month in 9th. Meanwhile, Nissan – just a single registration behind its alliance partner on 1 425 units – fell 2 more positions to close out the table, enduring its lowest sales tally of the year so far.
Kia (1 284 units) was once again bubbling under in 11th place, finishing ahead of 12th-placed Mahindra (1 014 units). That meant the BMW Group (961 units) again found itself in 13th, with Mercedes-Benz (on a Naamsa-estimated 535 units) in 14th. Fascinatingly, Chery division Omoda & Jaecoo (506 units) completed the top 15, pushing Stellantis off the list.
1. Toyota – 10 890 units
2. Volkswagen Group – 5 885 units
3. Suzuki – 5 023 units
4. Hyundai – 2 841 units
5. Ford – 2 823 units
6. Isuzu – 1 960 units
7. GWM – 1 740 units
8. Chery – 1 614 units
9. Renault – 1 426 units
10. Nissan – 1 425 units
Sales outlook in SA for final quarter of 2024
Where to from here for South Africa’s new-vehicle market? Well, Naamsa is “optimistic that the tide for higher new-vehicle sales will turn”, saying economic indicators in September 2024 “showed positive trends, including the first interest-rate cut in 4 years”, a stronger rand and easing inflation below the mid-point of the central bank’s target range.
“Lower fuel prices further bolstered consumer confidence, offering relief to household budgets,” points out the industry representative body, adding that “the passenger-car segment has shown a positive trend in recent months, boosted by rental sales, currency strength and decreasing inflation”.
“As the country anticipates further interest-rate reductions, the costs of borrowing are expected to decline, which may stimulate economic activity, even though immediate improvements in vehicle affordability may be limited. Since the decline in new-vehicle sales began in August 2023, expectations are rising that the new-vehicle market could see improvement for the remainder of the year,” Naamsa concludes.
NADA’s Cohen adds that though the “economic environment remains challenging, with rising electricity prices expected to put further pressure on disposable income”, the industry remains “cautiously optimistic about potential improvements in the 4th quarter, driven by the introduction of new models, additional brands in the lower-price segments and aggressive dealer incentives”.
“We are not out of the woods yet, but the data is showing positive signs in the domestic market and sentiment continues to improve. This momentum will hopefully translate into stronger sales in the medium- to long term,” Cohen concludes.
WesBank’s Gaoaketse suggests that, thanks to likely “stimulated trading conditions over the next 18 months”, South Africa’s new-vehicle market “can be expected to perform better as consumers slowly reap the rewards of debt savings”.
“Sentiment is shifting more positively, which will provide good impetus for the country’s new-vehicle market. Volumes remain robust and demand remains high, all positive conditions for improving market performance,” says Gaoaketse.
Most Powerful New Cars Under R1.5 Million in South Africa
This article highlights the 5 most powerful new cars currently available in South Africa with a budget of no more than R1.5 million. Which one of these cars deserves to be in your driveway?
If power in a car matters to you and you have a budget of up to R1.5 million to spend on a new car, what are the most powerful cars you can buy for that money?
Earlier this year, we created a list of the Most Powerful New Cars in South Africa for Under R1 Million which includes electric cars. This list, however, focuses on cars with Internal Combustion Engines (ICE) only— because they sound better!
Here are the 5 most powerful new cars priced under R1.5 million in South Africa!
Most powerful new cars under R1.5 million in South Africa
1. Ford Mustang 5.0 V8 – 330 kW
The outgoing Ford Mustang is the most powerful new car you can buy for under R1.5 million in South Africa!
Fitted with a burly naturally-aspirated 5.0-litre V8 lump that produces 330 kW and 529 Nm of torque and paired with Ford’s 10-speed automatic transmission, the Mustang is capable of sprinting from zero to 100 kph in 4.8 seconds!
The Mustang can be had in GT, GT-CS (California Special) or Convertible guise with pricing starting from R1 142 900.
Note that an all-new 7th generation Ford Mustang is expected in South Africa in October 2024 with pricing starting from R1 300 000 but its 5.0-litre V8 will offer 2 kW less! We don’t think you’ll even notice…
The potent Mercedes-AMG A45 S 4Matic slips in under the price barrier at R1 475 690 and packs a punch with its turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine delivering 310 kW and 500 Nm of torque. Acceleration from zero to 100 kph is rapid with Merc claiming just 3.9 seconds to get the job done.
Audi’s RS3 5-pot banger can be had in Sportback or Sedan guise and both offer scintillating performance with Audi claiming 3.8 seconds to sprint from zero to 100kph. The German firm’s famed 2.5-litre, 5-cylinder turbopetrol is as good as it gets with outputs of 294 kW and 500 Nm of torque ripping all four wheels through a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.
The Ford Ranger Raptor is the only bakkie on this list but with its 3.0-litre V6 turbopetrol engine producing a whopping 292 kW and 583 Nm of torque using a 10-speed automatic transmission, there’s no doubt that the Raptor deserves to be here!
Even though Ford doesn’t claim a zero to 100 kph time for the Ranger Raptor, it’s the fastest and most powerful bakkie on the market right now!
Pricing for the Ford Ranger Raptor starts from R1 226 700.
The Toyota GR Supra rounds out this Top 5 list with a price starting from R1 494 800 and its zesty 3.0-litre, 6-cylinder produces 285 kW and 500 Nm and can be paired with either a 6-speed manual transmission or 8-speed automatic transmission. The manual GR Supra claims 4.4 seconds in the sprint to 100 kph while the automatic GR Supra is quicker with a claimed sprint time of 4.1 seconds.
The updated BMW 3 Series will soon be available in South Africa, though the base 318i will fall away. Here’s how much the latest version of the G20-gen sedan will cost you…
At the end of May 2024, the G20-generation BMW 3 Series received a 2nd update. Now, just ahead of its arrival in South Africa, we have local pricing for Munich’s revised premium sedan.
Interestingly, the base 318i – which had been available in both standard and M Sport trim – falls away, meaning the local 3 Series portfolio shrinks from 8 derivatives to 6 (not including the high-performance M3 Competition Sedan and M3 Competition Touring, that is).
So, the revised line-up now kicks off with the 320i, which is priced from R913 731 in standard form. Since the outgoing 318i started at R828 731, that means the entry point to G20 ownership has effectively increased by a considerable R85 000.
The 320i – which again offers 135 kW and 300 Nm from a turbocharged 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine, driving the rear wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission – is furthermore available in M Sport trim, pushing the price to R963 731.
Meanwhile, the 320d starts at R965 377, with the M Sport version priced from R1 015 377 (as our learned friends over at duoporta.com pointed out, both of these figures interestingly include an additional R4 500, with BMW seemingly forcing the selection of the “storage for wireless charging” option). As a reminder, the 320d again employs a 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel motor delivering an unchanged 140 kW and 400 Nm to the rear axle, likewise through an 8-speed auto.
As before, the 330i is available exclusively in M Sport guise, with the starting price seemingly unchanged at R1 034 067. Like the 320i, this derivative is powered by a 2.0-litre turbopetrol unit, though peak outputs here have been hiked to 190 kW and 400 Nm.
Finally, the M340i xDrive again starts at R1 364 607, with this M Performance variant’s turbocharged 3.0-litre straight-6 petrol motor offering 285 kW and 500 Nm to all 4 wheels. Interestingly, BMW SA’s website furthermore shows technical data for the 330e plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), though this variant is not included on the latest price list.
So, what exactly does this update encompass, considering the 3 Series benefitted from a full mid-cycle refresh (or LCI, as BMW calls it) as recently as 2022? Well, the Munich-based firm has made very few changes to the 3 Series sedan’s exterior, offering only a couple of new paint colours (Arctic Race Blue metallic and Fire Red metallic) and a handful of fresh alloy-wheel designs.
Under-the-skin tweaks, however, include various chassis updates that ostensibly result in a “notable increase in comfort across all driving situations”. Inside, meanwhile, you’ll find new steering-wheel designs, “visual modifications for the instrument panel” and “modernised decorative elements”, along with fresh upholstery options.
The updated 3 Series furthermore upgrades to the latest-generation “BMW iDrive with QuickSelect”, based on BMW Operating System 8.5, while the interior lighting system now includes “cascade lighting” integrated into the trim around the central seam vents. There’s also a new “CraftedClarity” option, which sees the gear-selector lever, iDrive controller and start/stop button fashioned from glass.
How much does the updated BMW 3 Series cost in SA?
BMW 320i – R913 731
BMW 320d – R965 377
BMW 320i M Sport – R963 731
BMW 320d M Sport – R1 015 377
BMW 330i M Sport – R1 034 067
BMW M340i xDrive – R1 364 607
The prices above include a 2-year/unlimited kilometre warranty and BMW’s 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan.
Kia Sportage vs Volkswagen Tiguan (2024) What should you buy?
An all-new Volkswagen Tiguan recently arrived in Mzansi. How well does it stack up against the 2023/24 #CarsAwards family-car category champion: the Kia Sportage? Which one should you buy? This article will help you make the best buying decision!
If you are shopping for a new family car, the chances are that you’re considering cars such as the Kia Sportage and Volkswagen Tiguan.
The family-car segment is hugely competitive and, with a recent influx of new products, particularly from fledgling Chinese brands such as Chery and GAC, legacy carmakers such as Kia, Volkswagen, Hyundai (Tucson), Mazda (CX-5) and Toyota (RAV4) are under significant pressure to maintain sales momentum.
In the 2023/24 #CarsAwards, sponsored by Absa, the Kia Sportage 1.6CRDi EX scooped the win in the Family Car category and was recognised as the best medium SUV in the new-car market for a myriad of reasons, including performance and efficiency, interior build quality, standard features and overall value.
The Kia Sportage is the 2023/24 #CarsAwards family car category champion!
The hugely popular previous-gen Tiguan was struggling to remain competitive in the company of newer products but, now that the new 3rd-gen Tiguan has arrived in South Africa, the Wolfsburg-based brand is once again in a strong position to reclaim its market share in the family-car segment.
How does the new Volkswagen Tiguan stack up against the award-winning Kia Sportage? The article should provide you with need-to-know information to help you make an informed buying decision.
The new Volkswagen Tiguan is a major improvement over its predecessor.
This article will cover key aspects including Performance & Efficiency, Interior Features & Safety, Dimensions & Practicality and Pricing & Warranty details.
If, at the end of this article, you are still undecided about what to buy, you are more than welcome to reach out to us for advice via X, Facebook or Instagram. Let’s find what moves you.
What To Buy: Kia Sportage vs Volkswagen Tiguan
Performance and Efficiency
Derivatives in the Kia Sportage range are powered by either a 1.6-litre 4-cylinder turbopetrol or -turbodiesel engine. The petrol engine is offered in conjunction with GT Line, GT Line Plus and GT Line S trim grades, while its turbodiesel equivalent is available with the LX, EX and GT Line Plus trim grades.
The new VW Tiguan is offered with a 1.4-litre 4-cylinder turbopetrol engine (September 2024) and in base, Life and R-Line guises. A 2.0-litre turbodiesel version is available to order but is only expected to join the range in November 2024, with a more potent 2.0-litre turbopetrol set to join the range in 2025.
Kia Sportage
Volkswagen Tiguan
Powertrain
Petrol
1.6L turbopetrol 132 kW / 265 Nm
1.4L turbopetrol 110 kW / 250 Nm
Diesel
1.6L turbodiesel 100 kW / 320 Nm
2.0L turbodiesel 110 kW / 340 Nm
Transmission
7-speed dual-clutch automatic
7-speed dual-clutch automatic
Fuel Consumption(Claimed)
Petrol
6.3 L/100 km
6.6 L/100 km
Diesel
5.0 L/100 km
7.6 L/100 km
Kia Sportage
The Sportage’s 1.6-litre 4-cylinder turbopetrol (which is paired, and well-calibrated with a 7-speed automatic ‘box) is a strong performer that delivers good in-gear acceleration. While Kia claims an average consumption figure of 6.3 L/100 km, expect real-world returns of around 9.0 L/100 km.
The Korean model delivers impressive on-road refinement thanks to good sound insulation (engine-, wind- and road noises are sufficiently suppressed). Over and above a pleasant and premium driving experience, the Sportage also offers solid and surefooted handling dynamics. The suspension setup is on the firm side, but the ride quality is still adequately comfortable, which befits a premium family car.
If you are looking for an even better balance between performance, efficiency and price, perhaps consider the diesel-powered Sportage 1.6 CRDi EX (our #CarsAwards champion) or the GT Line Plus.
Not only is this powertrain powerful enough to perform daily family-car duties, it’s surprisingly efficient too! When we reviewed the turbodiesel variant, the test unit indicated consumption figures of around 6.0 L/100 km (compared with Kia’s claim of 5.0 L/100km) – that’s an excellent return for a vehicle of this size.
Volkswagen Tiguan
The Tiguan’s 1.4-litre turbopetrol engine, which has been detuned to 110 kW, might have a lower power output than the Sportage’s turbopetrol 1.6-litre 4-pot, but rest assured that the former delivers excellent overall performance in conjunction with a smooth-shifting 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Not only is the Tiguan quick off the mark, but its mid-range acceleration (which is useful for executing quick overtakes) is strong – the VW can cruise effortlessly at the highway speed limit and beyond.
In terms of real-world efficiency, the new Tiguan is on par with the equivalent Sportage, with realistic returns of about 9.0 L/100 km (Volkswagen claims an average fuel consumption of 6.6 L/100 km).
And, as far as refinement and comfort are concerned, Volkswagen has hit the mark with the new model. Not only does the new Tiguan offer surefooted handling with sharp and positive responses to steering inputs, it also exhibits an excellent ride quality thanks to a forgiving, comfort-oriented suspension setup.
In our experience, Volkswagen’s 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine and 7-speed automatic transmission is a well-balanced powertrain that delivers punchy performance, while also returning good fuel economy. When that variant arrives in November 2024, we suspect that many buyers will opt for it. Volkswagen, however, still expects the 1.4-litre turbopetrol engine to be the best-seller in the range.
Much like the range-topping turbopetrol Sportage, the incoming 2.0-litre turbopetrol Tiguan derivative (expected in 2025) will most likely be a rather pricey proposition…
Partial cloth + leather Front and rear heated / cooled seats Lumbar support
Leather Front heated seats Lumbar support Massage functions
Safety Features
6 airbags, ABS with EBD, brake assist, vehicle stability control, hill start assist, hill descent control, blind spot assist, lane departure warning and lane keep assist, forward collision avoidance, trailer stability assist
8 airbags, ABS with EBD, brake assist, vehicle stability control, park assist plus, matrix LED headlights with high-beam assist, tyre pressure monitoring.
Additional safety features are optional
Kia Sportage
In a bid to make the 5th-gen Kia Sportage more competitive against highly-specced new rivals (most of which hail from China), Kia has moved the interior execution of the 5th-gen Sportage notably upmarket.
As such, the Sportage (as highlighted in the table above) is generously equipped with standard features with the highlight being its large, curved touchscreen and digital instrument cluster.
GT-Line Plus spec includes a panoramic sunroof, larger 19-inch alloy wheels, reverse-view camera, front and rear heated seats and a comprehensive list of active and passive safety features.
Volkswagen Tiguan
The new Tiguan’s interior has also moved upmarket and a major highlight is the MIB4 operating system paired with a standard 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system (a larger 15-inch system is optional).
In standard guise, the Tiguan R-Line lacks a few key features compared with its Korean rival, such as a panoramic sunroof, reverse-view camera (optional) and wireless charging (optional with the 15-inch infotainment system). The Tiguan, however, hits back with 8 airbags (versus 6 in the Sportage) and tyre-pressure monitoring.
It’s also well worth mentioning that the new sports seats are equipped with a massage function (standard in R-Line guise) – it’s a feature that elevates the Tiguan’s interior comfort considerably.
In terms of feature value, it’s evident that the Sportage pips the Tiguan in terms of the standard kit but the Tiguan’s comparative feature deficit is hardly a deal breaker.
Dimensions and Practicality
Kia Sportage 1.6TGDi GT Line
Volkswagen Tiguan 1.4TSI R-Line
Length
4 515 mm
4 539 mm
Width
1 865 mm
1 843 mm
Height
1 650 mm
1 631 mm
Wheelbase
2 680 mm
2 676 mm
Ground clearance
170 mm
201 mm
Load Capacity
591-1 780 L
652-1 650 L
Towing capacity
1 650 kg
1 900 kg
Kerb weight
1 497 kg
1 384 kg
Practicality Summary
The Sportage and Tiguan offer similar levels of practicality.
Both models offer ample rear legroom and passenger comfort is further enhanced with rear ventilated seats in the Sportage GT Line (as highlighted in the feature section of this article).
The new Tiguan does feature a larger load bay (652 litres, which is 37 litres more than the outgoing model) than the Sportage (591 litres). The Sportage, however, offers marginally more utility space (load capacity when its rear seatback is folded down) than its German rival.
Note that the Tiguan also has a higher ground clearance than the Sportage, which is useful if you intend to take your family on gravel-travel adventures, even if only occasionally.
For those families that require moderate towing capability, the Volkswagen trumps its Korean rival in this regard with a towing capacity of 1 900 kg for the front-wheel drive Tiguan, while the upcoming turbodiesel-powered and all-wheel-drive (4Motion) variant will be able to tow 2 300 kg!
Price and warranty
Note that pricing is accurate as of September 2024.
The Kia Sportage remains a formidable offering in the family-car segment and represents good value, especially in EX, GT Line and GT Line Plus guises. The Sportage is not only a practical family car, but it also strikes a good balance between performance and economy. We recommend the diesel-powered Sportage if you want to maximise value and efficiency over time. It’s worth pointing out that Kia also offers a longer warranty and service plan than Volkswagen, which you should factor into your buying decision.
If your budget isn’t able to stretch to acquiring a new Sportage, we suggest that you browse for a used Sportage on Cars.co.za as there are many worthwhile used (second-hand) options to consider.
The new Tiguan makes a strong case for itself and it should be on your family car shortlist.
With that said, the new Volkswagen Tiguan’s vastly improved cabin and added comfort features are compelling. The 1.4-litre turbopetrol engine punches above its weight/performs better than its outputs suggest, but, as is the case with the Sportage, we suspect that the incoming Tiguan diesel derivative will be the sweet spot in the range. Meanwhile, the detuned 140 kW 2.0TSI R-Line 4Motion, which is due in early 2025, is very likely to deliver good performance, but will come at a premium price (pricing is TBC).
The Kia Sportage and Volkswagen Tiguan are excellent choices in the family-car segment and both deserve to be on your family car shortlist! Which one would you pick?
New Nissan Gravite: is this the name of the brand’s next SUV?
We’ve unearthed a fresh trademark filing for the Nissan Gravite badge, a nameplate that might just end up being used on the Japanese firm’s next Indian-built SUV…
Back in March 2024, Nissan announced plans to build a pair of new SUVs in India, with these Renault-based models all but confirmed for South Africa. Now, based on a recent trademark application, we believe one of them might just end up being called the “Nissan Gravite”.
Yes, Cars.co.za can confirm that Nissan Motor Corporation filed to trademark the “Gravite” nameplate in South Africa in May 2024. For the record, the Japanese automaker applied to reserve the very same nameplate in India back in November 2023.
Nissan’s upcoming pair of SUVs will be positioned above the Magnite.
Though we’re administering a healthy dose of speculation here, we’d say the Gravite badge could be a prime candidate for use on a new SUV positioned above the Magnite (currently Nissan SA’s best-selling passenger vehicle), as an eventual – more cost-effective – replacement for the locally discontinued Qashqai.
From what we understand, the Japanese firm’s new 5-seater SUV will be based on the upcoming Indian-spec Renault Duster, with both models – seen in teaser images released during the “Alliance Advance in India” conference in March – set to be produced at Renault Nissan Automotive India’s manufacturing plant in Oragadam near Chennai (which currently also builds the Magnite, Kiger and Triber).
The Indian-spec Renault Duster may look a little different from this Turkish-market version.
This Indian facility is furthermore expected to produce a pair of 7-seater SUVs – one wearing a Renault badge and the other featuring a Nissan logo – which will likewise ride on a version of the Alliance’s CMF-B platform. The Renault version seems very likely to be an Indian-spec version of the upcoming Bigster.
As an aside, Renault filed to register the “Bigster” trademark in both India and South Africa, also in May 2024. Of course, there’s certainly a chance the Gravite nameplate could end up being applied to Nissan’s version of the 7-seater SUV rather than the 5-seater model. Time will tell, however, if it’s used on either.
Autocar India suggests the Duster and its Nissan equivalent will be launched in the world’s most populous nation late in 2025. As such, we’d expect the Nissan version to arrive in South Africa perhaps only the following year. Whether it will indeed be wearing this new “Nissan Gravite” badge, of course, remains to be seen…
A facelifted Fiat 500 has arrived in South Africa with a 3-derivative lineup. Here’s how much you will pay for the iconic European city car.
The Fiat 500 facelift is going on sale in South Africa priced from R308 900. There’ll be a trio of derivatives and all use the Stellantis 1.2-litre naturally-aspirated 4-cylinder petrol engine which makes 51 kW and 102 Nm. Power goes to the front wheels via an automated 5-speed manual gearbox. Given its compact size, it should be reasonably efficient, with Fiat claiming 4.8 L/100 km.
The Fiat 500 history is substantial, with three generations over 67 years. Since the start of the modern 500 in 2007, over 2.5 million of these cute city cars have been built. It may be a small city car, but there’s no safety shortcuts as there are 7 airbags, stability control and hill hold assist.
Inside, the Fiat 500 features a 7-inch HD touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. There’s also Bluetooth and a USB port.
Trim levels
The Style model adds rear parking sensors, climate control, front fog lights, 16-inch alloy wheels, and folding rear seats. For those wanting the convertible experience, the Style Cabrio has an electrically-powered fabric roof that peels backwards.
How much does the facelift Fiat 500 cost in South Africa?
The updated model is sold with a 5-year/100 000 km warranty.
The Blue Oval is seeking to increase its foothold in the people-mover market with the new Tourneo Custom. This week, Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa finalised the launch price of the 2.0SiT Trend LWB and here are our impressions of the newcomer.
English farmer and former most famous motoring TV presenter in the world Jeremy Clarkson once wrote that a motoring journalist’s only essential task is to try convincing anyone why they shouldn’t buy a Golf.
So, does that maxim ring equally true for Volkswagen models in the people-carrier segment?
Certainly in South Africa, combined sales of the Volkswagen Caravelle, Kombi and crew buses swallow 37% of the segment’s 2 748 units sold up to the end of July, followed by the Hyundai Staria 10% behind. Next up are the Mercedes V-Class and Vito line-ups (19%) and the subject of this review – Ford, with the Transit Custom it launched in June and the Tourneo Custom LWB 8-seater – somewhat behind at 11%.
So, after some cursory back-of-the-carton calculations, Clarkson’s wisdom wasn’t as out whack as his detractors would like the world to believe. Ford; however, wants to believe that the newcomer is a worthy adversary to, specifically, the benchmark-setting, space-age Hyundai Staria Executive 9- and 11-seater.
Is it truly a foil to the Staria et al?
As the person-conveying version of the package-moving Transit Custom, the 5450 mm-long Tourneo Custom (available in 2.0SiT Trend LWB guise, for now) shares the same improvements in its DNA.
The combination of the new platform’s 100 kg diet, the wheel-in-each-corner placement, rear trailing-arm suspension, wind-cheating redesigned front end and reduced overall height (to 1 961 mm) has resulted in a more efficient, comfortable and enjoyable driving proposition for courier guys (and guy-lettes, of course) in the Transit Custom. And now – soccer moms and -dads in the Tourneo Custom, too.
Similarly shared is the 100 kW/360 Nm 2.0-litre AdBlue-supplemented turbodiesel engine (with Normal, Eco, Slippery and Tow drive modes), but instead of Mr Delivery’s 3-pedal version, Mrs Beckham’s bus has an 8-speed automatic transmission, with the drive selector configured as a column-mounted stalk.
Manual shift overrides are executed by an endcap turn-dial shaped and operated in the same way as one would activate the rear wiper; with forward twists triggering upshifts and rearwards ones for downshifts.
From safety to luxury, one would be hard-pressed to want for more features in the Tourneo Custom…
The cabin is dominated by a 13-inch Ford SYNC4-operated touchscreen that controls nearly all vehicle functions; which is flanked by an 8-inch-sized configurable digital instrument panel ahead of the driver. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available wirelessly, for spouting Spotify and other apps’ outputs through 10 speakers; and there’s a wireless charging pad at the bottom of the centre console.
A pair of 12V power outlets are positioned fore and aft; as is a smattering of USB A and C charging points throughout the cabin; most usefully in the B-pillar alongside the 1st row of rear passengers.
Roadholding is taken care of by ABS (with emergency brake-force distribution and brake assist), stability control, as well as hill-launch assist. There are 6 airbags and the driver aids extend to cruise control, a tyre-pressure monitor, front and rear parking sensors, a 180-degree rear camera, lane-keeping nanny, an (overzealous) driver fatigue monitor, traffic (and speed!) sign recognition and collision mitigation.
Now, trainspotters may derive sadistic pleasure from drawing conclusions after like-for-like comparisons over the different tread counts utilised in the seat trim of rival products, but ignoring the acres of hard plastic and rudimentary couture embellishment, the Tourneo’s primary purpose is packing people and their luggage, as well as towing stuff. And that’s where it truly shines.
Configured as standard with 3 rows of slideable, 180-degree rotatable (and entirely and easily removable seats), the Ford’s workhorse roots can see it transform from a versatile, formidable people-mover into a load-lugger. With all seats removed, it’ll match the Transit’s ability to gobble a trio of Euro-sized pallets.
Only with the 3rd row of seats slid into the rearmost position, does loading space finally turn into an endangered species. And that’s why the Tourneo Custom comes pre-wired to fit a towbar.
Except that towing should only really be seen as a last resort and sadly – but realistically – as a threat to otherwise tranquil traversing of the countryside in the Tourneo Custom. The single-turbo engine provides quiet and adequate performance, though there’s an occasional reluctance to kick down on uphills.
What’s more, the oblong-shaped tiller actuates direction changes lightly and sharply, and true to form, the pilot’s position is commanding as it is pleasantly panoramic; slightly offset by the looming low ceiling.
Even with an empty payload, it’s never going to trouble the Sporty Spice that is the Hyundai Staria with 130 kW/430 Nm; let alone the Volkswagen Transporter and Caravelle’s 146 kW/450 Nm zombie-stopper.
Yet perhaps the Tourneo Custom’s greatest contestation lies in its blue-collar DNA. Visually, its slab-sided appearance and workaday front end struggle to dispel the bus’ panel-van underpinnings. Neither is it as sumptuous-feeling inside or intriguingly styled as the Staria and there’s an irrefutable power deficit.
How much does the Ford Tourneo Custom cost in SA?
Tourneo Custom 2.0SiT Trend LWB
R1 070 000
Whereas Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa has listed its new-model prices exclusive of service plans for the past few years, the Tourneo Custom 2.0SiT Trend LWB’s price (September 2024) includes a 6-year/90 000 km service plan. However, buyers can pay a lower price if they choose to forego the latter.
Furthermore, the price includes a 4-year/120 000 km warranty, 4-year/unlimited km roadside assistance and a 5-year/unlimited km corrosion warranty. The recommended service interval is 15 000 km or annually, whichever occurs first.
FMCSA announced the Ford Tourneo Custom 2.0SiT Trend LWB’s price about 2 weeks after the launch event. The 8-seater is built in Turkey and the Silverton-based brand hoped for a favourable outcome from the rallying Rand/Euro exchange rate – perhaps it believed it could match the price of the Staria 2.2D Executive 9-seater, which is regarded as the (currently only) Tourneo Custom variant’s main rival.
However, with a 6-year/90 000 km service plan included (as the Hyundai has), the Ford costs a notable R160k more than its rival, even if it offers more features (such as keyless start and heated front seats).
Therefore, the newcomer starts with a disadvantage, even if it is more than capable of holding its own.
And do you know what? There’s nobility in humility: when you can’t quite reach the stars, you only have to shoot to shoot out the lights. Just look at Jeremy Charles Robert Clarkson: he once drove Lambos (while mouthing off) for a living, but today, he is content to drive a tractor… and whisper.
The new Suzuki Swift will soon launch in South Africa, powered by a fresh 3-cylinder engine. Here’s how much the latest version of this popular hatchback will cost you…
Just how much will the new Suzuki Swift – a nameplate that has become one of Mzansi’s top-selling passenger cars in recent years – cost in South Africa? Well, the Japanese firm’s local division has released pricing ahead of the AOL-generation hatchback’s official market launch.
Interestingly, the Swift range (excluding the Swift Sport warm hatch) again comprises 5 derivatives. The base GA grade falls away, meaning the line-up now kicks off with the GL specification. A new GL+ trim level slots in as the mid-tier option, with GLX again topping the portfolio.
While the outgoing Swift range ran from R213 900 to R272 900, the new line-up kicks off at R219 900 and tops out at R284 900 (respective increases of R6 000 and R12 000). As before, the SA-spec Swift is sourced from Maruti Suzuki’s Manesar facility in India, rather than from the brand’s domestic market of Japan.
All derivatives are powered by Suzuki’s new Z-Series (Z12E) engine, which drives the front wheels via either a 5-speed manual gearbox or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The latter replaces the previous-gen model’s automated manual transmission (AMT). Only the entry-level GL is not available with the CVT at launch.
The new naturally aspirated 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder petrol motor generates 60 kW at 5 700 rpm and 112 Nm at 4 300 rpm. As a reminder, all derivatives in the outgoing Swift range in Mzansi (again, bar the Japanese-built Swift Sport 1.4T variants) used a likewise atmospheric 1.2-litre, with similar maximum outputs of 61 kW and 113 Nm but 4 cylinders rather than 3.
The new Swift 1.2 GL 5MT is priced at R219 900 and rides on 14-inch steel wheels. It ships standard with electric windows all round, electrically adjustable (and folding) side mirrors, a height-adjustable driver’s seat, air conditioning, rear parking sensors, an immobiliser and an alarm. Safety features standard across the range include 6 airbags, hill-hold control, ABS, electronic stability control and rear-outboard ISOfix child-seat anchors.
Meanwhile the Swift 1.2 GL+ 5MT (R239 900) and Swift 1.2 GL+ CVT (R259 900) gain features like a 7-inch infotainment screen, a reverse-view camera, steering-wheel controls (for the audio system) and 15-inch alloy wheels.
Finally, the flagship Swift 1.2 GLX 5MT (R264 900) and Swift 1.2 GLX CVT (R284 900) upgrade to a 9-inch infotainment screen, automatic climate control, a leather-clad steering wheel (with cruise-control buttons), auto-folding side mirrors, keyless entry (with push-button start), automatic LED headlights, 15-inch diamond-cut alloys and shift paddles in the case of the CVT derivative.
As a reminder, the outgoing A2L-generation Swift arrived in South Africa in mid-2018. In 2022, this model ranked 2nd place on the list of Mzansi’s best-selling passenger vehicles (behind only the Kariega-built Volkswagen Polo Vivo), with its tally of 17 282 units seeing it rocket up the table from 6th place in the prior year.
In 2023, the Swift dropped a spot to 3rd position in the passenger-vehicle rankings, with sales of the Indian-built hatchback – which was again SA’s best-selling imported vehicle overall – slipping 7.6% year on year to 15 974 units. Over the opening 8 months of 2024, meanwhile, as many as 10 898 units have been registered locally, keeping the Swift in a comfortable 3rd place.
How much does the new Suzuki Swift cost in South Africa?
Suzuki Swift 1.2 GL 5MT – R219 900
Suzuki Swift 1.2 GL+ 5MT – R239 900
Suzuki Swift 1.2 GL+ CVT – R259 900
Suzuki Swift 1.2 GLX 5MT – R264 900
Suzuki Swift 1.2 GLX CVT – R284 900
The new Swift ships standard with Suzuki’s 5-year/200 000 km warranty and a 2-year/30 000 km service plan.
The 8-seater Ford Tourneo Custom people-mover has touched down in South Africa. Here’s how much you can expect to pay, plus what you get for your money.
The new Ford Tourneo Custom is an 8-seater people mover and despite the popularity of big SUVs, the Blue Oval brand reckons its new bus brings comfort and space to the party. Right now, there’s just 1 derivative available, but 2 more derivatives (Sport and Titanium X) are earmarked for introduction at a later stage.
The model is powered by a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine which produces 100 kW and 360 Nm, and drives the front wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission. There are selectable drive modes, including a tow function, and the vehicle has a braked trailer rating of up to 2 500 kg.
Unlike its body-on-frame Everest relative, the Tourneo Custom is based on a monocoque with independent rear suspension, so in theory, Ford’s new bus should have better on-road refinement, comfort and stability.
Of course, this vehicle’s most important aspect is its seating configuration’s versatility. The new-gen Ford Tourneo Custom’s seats are lighter than those of its predecessor, so it’s fairly simple to remove the 2nd and 3rd rows to transfer the Blue Oval’s new people-mover into a panel van.
The seats can slide fore/aft on tracks and the 2nd row can be turned around to free up more space and configurations. The new platform is also said to offer a lower floor height, which will make loading easier.
The 2024 Tourneo Custom grade walk
Trend
Dual Load Doors
Signature LED Headlamps
16-inch Alloy Wheels
Dual Zone Electronic Climate Control & Rear Seat Climate Control
Front heated seats
13-inch Landscape Touchscreen with SYNC4
Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
10-Speakers Sound System
12-inch Instrument Cluster with 8-inch Configurable Centre Display
Wireless Charging
Front & Rear USB Charging Points
Front & Rear 12V Charging Socket
Electronic Park Brake
Sensico Steering Wheel & Gear Shifter
Keyless Start
Track-Based, Configurable Seating System
ABS, EBD & EBA
Electronic Stability Program with Traction Control
Hill Launch Assist
Driver Impairment Monitor
Collision Mitigation
Intelligent Speed Assistance
Speed Sign Recognition
Lane Keeping Aid
Roll Over Mitigation
Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
Front & Rear Parking Sensors with Rear Camera
Six airbags
5G FordPass Connect
How much does the Ford Tourneo Custom cost in SA?
Ford Tourneo Custom 2.0SiT Trend LWB
R1 070 000
Whereas Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa has listed its new-model prices exclusive of service plans for the past few years, the Tourneo Custom 2.0SiT Trend LWB’s price (September 2024) includes a 6-year/90 000 km service plan. However, buyers can pay a lower price if they choose to forego the latter.
Furthermore, the price includes a 4-year/120 000 km warranty, 4-year/unlimited km roadside assistance and a 5-year/unlimited km corrosion warranty. The recommended service interval is 15 000 km or annually, whichever occurs first. In addition, over-the-counter parts (OTC) and service parts warranty (SPW) are covered for 2 years/unlimited km.
Customers have the option of purchasing a service or maintenance plan of up to 8 years/165 000 km. The warranty can be extended up to 7 years or 200 000 km, while the roadside assistance can be extended for an additional 1 or 2 years.
