Whether you need one for your business, or as a practical – yet somewhat luxurious – large family car, a minibus still holds significant appeal… Some models could even be described as highly desirable! Where does the Ford Tourneo Custom fit in, however?
We like: Capacious cabin, practicality, high-quality infotainment system.
We don’t like: Feels underpowered when all seats are occupied and a full complement of luggage is on board, too commercial-vehicle-like (in some aspects) to be regarded as a desirable family car.
At almost 5.5 metres in length, the Ford Tourneo Custom is the longest offering in its segment.
From the days of David Kramer and the iconic Volkswagen Kombi ads from the ’80s, to the cult following the Mercedes-Benz V-Class now enjoys as a luxury “party bus”, nevermind the taxi industry, which is dominated by Toyota, minivans have occupied a special place in Mzansi’s automotive landscape.
After all, sometimes there is just no other vehicle than a large MPV (or people-mover, if you prefer) that will suffice. From a buyer who is looking for an all-round family/holiday vehicle, and a fleet operator that hauls goods and people almost every day, to a hotel shuttle service that requires a reasonably luxurious transport solution for ferrying guests, the minibus fulfils requirements that no other vehicle type can.
The challenge for the manufacturers of these vehicles, however, is that those prospective customers we mentioned have rather divergent requirements. For some, the ability to offer generous utility space – yes, sheer practicality, far outweighs the need for luxurious trimmings. For the family buyer, by contrast, a full suite of safety- and occupant comfort features is paramount. And for those who want to travel in style, or provide transport with a whiff of luxury, seats can be sacrificed for premium materials, trims and gizmos.
The Tourneo Custom’s exterior styling is less than glamorous; you can tell this people-mover is based on a van.
So, where does the Ford Tourneo Custom fit in? The Blue Oval’s minibus (based on an all-new platform and fitted with an impressive array of safety features, plus an up-to-date infotainment system) is priced at just under R1.1 million (January 2025), which seems quite steep, seeing as it is not only significantly more expensive than the admittedly less sophisticated Opel Zafira, but also the popular Hyundai Staria.
And yet, when you consider the Ford Tourneo Custom’s conservative exterior execution and focus on interior space, it appears to be more of a dressed-up commercial van than a focused people-mover…
The question is, then, whether the new Tourneo Custom (at the price) will offer enough of everything to satisfy most of its potential customers, or whether in an effort to please everyone, it has, as the saying goes, tried to sit on 2 chairs at the same time and ended up falling down the middle? Let’s find out.
At 5 450 mm in length and 2 148 mm in width, the Ford Tourneo Custom has the biggest footprint in its segment. Its sheer size is visually exaggerated by the ultra-long wheelbase (3 500 mm). Considering the model’s all-new platform, 1 of the Blue Oval’s goals was clearly to offer segment-leading load space.
With the 2nd- and 3rd-row seats removed, it offers a truly massive 6.8 m3 load volume, suitable to swallow no fewer than 3 standard Euro pallets.
The 2nd- and 3rd-row seats are mounted on tracks and are easy to remove or reposition in a front-to-front configuration.
The attention to detail is quite impressive, considering the Tourneo Custom’s commercial-vehicle origins. The combination of a lower floor height, integrated side steps and large apertures for the dual sliding side doors makes it easier to get hefty objects in and out of the Ford. What’s more, the new architecture has reduced the vehicle’s height to below 2 metres, which has the double benefit of easing access to underground car parks, as well as improving aerodynamics, which aids the vehicle’s fuel efficiency.
But what this focus on creating a ginormous (in other words, very usable) load space has resulted in, is a vehicle that looks very much like the commercial vehicle, which it is – at its core, particularly in the fleet-friendly Frozen White hue of our test vehicle. The relatively small (16-inch) wheels (the Zafira and Staria both boast bigger rims) appear lost in the wheel arches and are pushed out to the corners of the vehicle.
Considering the Tourneo Custom 2.0SiT Trend LWB‘s asking prince (just under R1.1 million), perhaps you may want your “family” tourer to look a little bit more special. Of course, looks wouldn’t matter too much for commercial users and it’s worth noting that Ford’s Transit Sport and -Titanium X are due soon, and they look significantly more aesthetically pleasing, but we don’t know how much they will cost (yet).
The 2nd-row seats have integrated safety belts and can be folded flat to create a “tabletop” surface for 3rd-row occupants.
But back to the Ford’s interior… The Tourneo Custom 2.0SiT Trend (which is available exclusively in long-wheelbase form) offers 3 rows of seats in a 2/3/3 configuration. The 2nd and 3rd rows of seats are mounted on tracks, making it easy to move them around, or even remove them completely.
You can also mount the seats in “reverse” as the 2nd-row seats have their own integrated safety belts. The seats are easier to remove than before as they are lighter than those of the previous model and, to reiterate, access to the cabin is easier because the floor is lower and the side-door apertures larger.
A low floor and large sliding door apertures provide ease of access to the 2nd- and 3rd-rows of the Tourneo Custom.
We used the Tourneo Custom for 2 long trips, with the vehicle fully loaded with passengers and luggage on both occasions. There were no complaints about legroom – there is just simply so much space; the load bay remains capacious even when all seats are occupied and the 3rd row is pushed back quite far.
Unfortunately, Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa (FMCSA) has not released load volumes for the model, but we’re quite confident that it is the most capacious vehicle in its segment.
8-seater MPVs are not renowned for offering generous luggage capacity, but the Tourneo Custom is an exception.
A minor complaint is that the side windows on the sliding doors don’t open, but at least there is rear-seat climate control. Third-row passengers also have access to multiple USB-C ports and a 12V socket.
Move to the front seats and you notice a noticeable shift upmarket. While the driving position is typically bus-like with a commanding view of the road and surroundings, the cloth-upholstered seats offer good support overall, plus a wide range of adjustability, fold-down armrests and even heating (as do the Zafira and Staria, to be fair). Dual-zone climate control, as well as auto lights and -wipers, are present.
The Trend variant may not be lavishly equipped, but 3-stage front-seat heating will be appreciated in the winter months.
The cabin’s most aesthetically pleasing aspect is arguably its large (13-inch) infotainment touchscreen, flanked by a 12-inch digital instrument cluster. The graphics are crisp and clear and this slick-looking setup makes the otherwise workmanlike cabin seem a bit more luxurious. Built around Ford’s SYNC4 infotainment system, it offers wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility as standard.
A wireless charging pad is also fitted. Located low down on the centre console are USB A- and C-charging ports, as well as a 12V socket.
The location of the transmission lever on the steering column has freed up space in the lower part of the cabin, which contributes to the overall sense of spaciousness.
Another nice touch is that there are loads of storage solutions. A minor complaint, however, is that these spaces have no padding or rubberised surfaces, so items do tend to slide around in them.
Performance & Efficiency
For now, only 1 engine is offered in the Tourneo Custom: Ford’s trusty 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel (with 1 turbocharger). Ford claims a peak power output of 100 kW at 3 500 rpm, with maximum torque of 360 Nm between 1 750 and 2 500 rpm. The engine is mated with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
The Ford’s powertrain is a real workhorse, but its middling peak outputs are quite apparent when the vehicle is fully laden.
On paper, at least, the Tourneo Custom seems a little underpowered, particularly as the Opel Zafira puts out 110 kW and 370 Nm, while the Hyundai Staria produces 130 kW and 430 Nm.
The Ford is a fair bit lighter than the Hyundai, so when driven without load, and pottering around town, the former is unlikely to feel underpowered, though the gearbox is a bit tardy in changing down at times.
The Ford Tourneo Custom’s instrument cluster has a simple layout, but at least it’s an all-digital setup.
However, we encountered some challenges on the 2 aforementioned open-road trips. When cruising at near the national speed limit, with all its seats taken, its luggage compartment loaded to near-capacity and the aircon on full blast to cool the massive cabin, the Ford has precious little power in reserve for overtakes and struggles to maintain speed on uphill sections. This can make it quite frustrating to drive.
In such situations (when the Ford’s operating in full people-mover mode), you are left with no alternative but to almost “flat foot the drive”, which obviously has a negative impact on fuel consumption.
Ford claims an average consumption figure of 7.4 L/100 km, which is comfortably better than that of the Hyundai Staria (8.7 L/100 km), but not as good as the (claimed) figure for the Opel Zafira (6.3 L/100 km).
In our experience, however, the real-world consumption figure will depend largely on your usage pattern. If you will be making use of the Tourneo Custom’s load-carrying capacity more often than not, or travel on the open road at the national speed limit frequently, then expect figures of closer to 10 L/100 km.
Ride & Handling
We’ve mentioned that the Tourneo Custom rides on a new platform, which incorporates an all-new independent rear suspension, all of which benefits ride comfort, handling and refinement. Generally speaking, it is a comfortable vehicle to pilot – more so than Opel’s less-refined Zafira, for example.
But you have to remain wary of the Ford’s bulk. Manoeuvrability is relatively good, with nicely weighted steering and good visibility all-round, but given that long wheelbase, tight turns require forethought. It comes as standard with a 180-degree camera with parking sensors – crucial for this size of vehicle.
The Tourneo Custom is sizeable, but reasonably easy to manoeuvre in town thanks to the reverse-view camera and parking sensors.
It’s also (from a ride quality point of view) a comfortable cruiser; the Ford has sufficient suppleness in its suspension to absorb all but the worst imperfections, but to its credit, the ride is not so soft that it starts to feel like “floating”, which is a common problem with this type of vehicle. Dynamically, Ford has always fought at the front of whatever segment it competes in and, with the Tourneo Custom, that trait lives on.
The Ford Tourneo Custom delivers a soft ride quality, but without the floatiness that large MPVs are prone to exhibit.
Several comfort and safety features add to the Tourneo Custom’s long-road cruising appeal – as for the minibus’ lack of grunt, well, you will just have to get used to it. There is adaptive cruise control, a lane-keeping aid, forward-collision avoidance, reverse brake assist (very useful when backing this big vehicle out of a parking spot) and, of course, electronic stability control etc. It also features 6 airbags.
Like most cars these days, it has an annoyingly intrusive driver alert and -impairment monitor, which on our long journeys, kept suggesting extremely frequent rest stops with increasing “firmness” to its tone.
Price and After-Sales Support
The Ford Tourneo Custom 2.0SiT Trend LWB costs R1 070 000 (January 2025), but unlike other Ford models, it’s listed with a 4-year/120 000 km warranty and 6-year/90 000 km service plan included in the asking price. It is also worth noting that the vehicle comes pre-wired for the fitment of a towbar.
Verdict
The Ford Tourneo Custom Trend is an accomplished product that could be priced more competitively.
To reiterate, the Tourneo Custom 2.0SiT Trend LWB is, for now, the only variant on offer, but there are more upmarket offerings on the way (obviously at different price points that are still to be confirmed).
Given its R1 070 000 list price (in January 2025) it is our opinion that, given its overall specification, drivetrain and segment rivals, the Ford Tourneo Custom is priced a little above its station.
Too obviously “commercial” in some aspects, yet impressively modern in others, we could forgive its “blue-collar” characteristics if only it made for a more compelling tourer (remember, we review vehicles with a focus on the passenger-, not commercial market) – as it stands, the Ford simply lacks sufficient punch. That said, the 2.0SiT Trend LWB is only the start; let’s see how this model portfolio expands…
Nissan Magnite Move Panel Van (2025) Price & Specs
The Nissan Magnite Move panel van will soon launch in South Africa as an indirect replacement for the NP200 half-tonne bakkie – and we’ve unearthed local pricing…
Though Nissan South Africa says it’s still working on a genuine successor to the NP200 half-tonne bakkie, the Japanese firm’s local division will soon launch an indirect replacement in the form of the Nissan Magnite Move panel van.
As a reminder, production of the NP200 wrapped up back in March 2024, bringing down the curtain on what was Mzansi’s last surviving half-tonne bakkie. In a bid to fill this space in the light-commercial vehicle segment, several automakers have since created small panel vans based on passenger vehicles – and now Nissan is poised to join the fray.
Based on the recently launched facelifted version of the Magnite small crossover, the new panel-van derivative will debut the “Move” badge in SA. From what we understand, the Magnite Move is based on the 1.0 Visia variant, meaning it employs a naturally aspirated 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine sending 53 kW and 96 Nm to the front axle via a 5-speed manual gearbox (with a claimed consumption of 5.9 L/100 km).
So, what will it cost? Well, according to our information, the Magnite Move 1.0 Visia Panel Van will be priced at R224 900, making it the cheapest derivative in Nissan SA’s current range (for reference, the entry-level Magnite passenger vehicle comes in at R246 200, while the base NP200 was priced at R245 300 before its axing).
Interestingly, the Magnite Move is also the most affordable option among SA’s growing crop of passenger vehicles converted to panel vans, undercutting models such as the Hyundai Grand i10 Cargo (from R249 500), Renault Triber 1.0 Express (R266 999), Kia Picanto 1.0 LX Runner (from R284 900), Mahindra XUV 3XO 1.2T MX1 Panel Van (R296 999), Kia Sonet 1.5 LS Runner (R319 995), Hyundai Venue 1.2 Premium Cargo (R321 500) and Renault Kiger 1.0 Turbo Express (R334 999).
What else do we know about the Nissan Magnite Move? Well, with the rear bench ditched, this panel van’s load bay measures 1 300 mm long, allowing it to swallow a claimed 690 litres of cargo. From what we understand, the official payload capacity will come in at 250 kg (quite some way under the old NP200’s 800 kg rating).
As has become the norm in this growing segment, the Magnite Move features honeycomb partitioning between the front-passenger area and the load bay, with this barrier treatment repeated on the rear side windows and rear screen (which furthermore feature an opaque film, likely applied to keep the cargo area’s contents from prying eyes). The load-bay, meanwhile, comes with “Hexa Grip” flooring.
Though the Magnite Move makes do with 16-inch steel wheels and cloth upholstery (along with a polyurethane finish for its steering wheel), this derivative nevertheless comes standard with features such as tyre-pressure monitoring, air conditioning, rear parking sensors, stability control, dual front airbags, ABS with EBD and even a fire extinguisher fitted under the front-passenger seat. Meanwhile, the touchscreen infotainment system has been dropped, though “pre-wiring” for the 6-speaker audio system remains.
How much does the Nissan Magnite Move cost in SA?
Nissan Magnite Move 1.0 Visia Panel Van – R224 900
It’s our understanding that the price above includes Nissan’s 6-year/150 000 km warranty. It’s not yet confirmed whether a 3-year/30 000 km service plan is part of the deal.
Porsche 911 (930) Turbo vs (996) GT3: Classic Comparison
There are various modern-classic Porsche 911 variants to consider at around the R1.6- to R1.8-million mark. We compare 2 tantalising options: the 930 Turbo and 996 GT3.
IMAGES: Michael Schmucker
If you are reading this article, it is more than likely that you also get rather hot under the collar when someone expresses the opinion that “all 911s are the same”. It is often doubly irksome when the persons who make this nonsensical statement claim to be so-called “motoring enthusiasts”.
That’s because the variety of 911s produced during the past 60 years is unlike those of any other series-production sportscars. Distinctive body shapes, with vastly different engines/transmission combinations, constitute a long and storied lineage of cars that offer an immense array of driving experiences.
Depending on your budget, there is an abundance of 911s to choose from in the classifieds and from specialists when you take mileage, condition and age into account. This is proven by these two 911s we’ve lined up around 70 km outside Johannesburg.
From around the R1.5 million mark, you can purchase a high-mileage 1st-generation turbocharged 911 in the shape of the wide-arched 3.3-litre flat-6-powered 930-series 911 Turbo.
Keep in mind, at this price point the car will need some level of attention. This is the bottom end in the current market conditions for these cars as their asking prices rise to over double this figure, depending on the factors mentioned above, as well as history, provenance or if any special models are considered.
But, on the opposite end of 911 scale in terms of the driving experience, one of Porsche’s early water-cooled road racers, in the shape of the 996 GT3 Mk II can be sourced. However, in this instance, you can choose one of the best examples on the market… Which of these rather iconic 911 models should be considered most strongly for your next vehicular acquisition?
Details of the Porsche 911 (930) Turbo
When this specific 1979 911 (930) Turbo was acquired by its owner at the time of our drive, it needed a decent restoration. Although it might have looked in good nick judging by a casual walk-around inspection, the car was stripped, repainted, received a new interior and its engine was rebuilt.
It was during the latter revision that 911 SC cams were fitted – a welcome upgrade.
Specifications
Model: 1979 Porsche 911 (930) Turbo
Engine: 3.3-litre, flat-6 turbopetrol
Power: 221 kW at 5 500 rpm
Torque: 412 Nm between 4 000 rpm
Transmission: 4-speed manual, RWD
Weight: 1 335 kg
0-100 kph: 5.4 sec (claimed)
Top speed: 260 kph
Even the tartan inserts on the seats were imported from Germany. These seats with the black side bolsters are perfectly in tune with the 1970s and complement the altogether neat interior.
This 930 Turbo was originally delivered in Hamburg, Germany, and featured options such as the right-side mirror (261), aircon (559) and, importantly, colour code 99, which is this beautiful platinum metallic.
When I open the engine cover, the squeaky clean flat-6 engine with the necessary stickers demonstrates that the motor has been reconditioned.
The metallic finish suits the car perfectly and the colour-coded Fuchs rims add further aesthetic allure to this rare machine. It is stylish, but the performance on offer and the link with Porsche’s race cars at the time is clear for all to see.
Next to the 930 Turbo, the 996 GT3 Mk II appears clearly related to its older stablemate, but it is an entirely different machine. The visual differences are immediately apparent: the 996’s shape is soapy smooth, but as its owner rightly remarks: “The added aero does make the car pop and stand out”.
And that is certainly the case. According to the owner at the time, this 996 GT3 was originally ordered with the 996 RS’s rear carbon-fibre wing and side mirrors. A peek through the car’s official documents reveals an “Aerokit Cup” annotation, which doesn’t have a code, but states the word “coordinate” next to it. These two features simply add to the focused stance of the silver (paint code X1X1) GT3.
On the road, it is a pure joy to view the Turbo from behind, but the experience is most pleasurable when the 930 delivers a burst of full-throttle acceleration and the forced induction motor emits a barrage of whistling noises.
The GT3, by contrast, produces a more mechanical, sonorous and intense sound from below the carbon-fibre rear wing. For a moment, I’m thankful that I can experience the sound from the photography car. However, it is soon time to experience each car from behind their respective tillers.
Behind the wheel of the 911 (930) Turbo
As I get behind the (starkly minimalist, by modern standards) steering wheel of the Porsche 911 (930) Turbo for the first time, I’m reminded of how comfortable this car is inside. The seats are fairly cushy, while the damping is also not as stiff as other sportier 911s, like the GT3, for example.
Equipped with only 4 gears, the driving experience is much more relaxed than in the 6-speed, howling 3.6-litre engine that revs to 8 200 rpm. This fact adds to the 911 Turbo’s long-distance mile-crunching capability. The gears are long, but make no mistake, there is still plenty of excitement to be had.
During the first 3 500 rpm you might question the car’s ability, but as you approach 4 000 rpm, the turbo is well on its way to delivering the rush it was designed for, and the needle swings vigorously around the rev counter. I decided to change up just after 6 000 rpm (after all, the engine had recently been rebuilt), but the owner reminds me that he often revs the motor to the redline, which is around 6 800 rpm.
It is a driving experience to which you will need to become accustomed; when you keep a constant throttle, even above 4 000 rpm, and then put your foot down, the boost needs to build for a moment before you receive that rush of torque and the Turbo’s narrow body is pushed to the next corner.
The steering wheel is, as expected, very lively, and such a strong reminder about the feedback of early 911s. The power delivery isn’t as progressive as those of modern turbocharged cars, but that is one of several characteristics that enable the 911 (930) Turbo to deliver such an invigorating driving experience, even by today’s standards. The transmission does a good job; I never had any difficulty finding a gear.
Time to give the 966 GT3 a whirl…
Upon sliding into this 2004 996 GT3 Mk II’s driver’s seat, the 911’s 3-decade metamorphosis is evident. Compared with the 930 Turbo, the Mezger-design engine has an 8 200 rpm redline, the gearbox has 6 gears and the proper bucket seats hug me all the way to my shoulders… and I’m 1.87 metres tall!
This model also doesn’t feature the CD holders behind the gear lever, which means there is more focus on the short lever on the transmission tunnel. A look over my shoulder reveals there are no rear seats.
Specifications
Model: Porsche 911 (996.2) GT3
Engine: 3.6-litre, flat-6 petrol
Power: 284 kW at 7 400 rpm
Torque: 385 Nm at 5 000 rpm
Transmission: 6-speed manual, RWD
Weight: 1 380 kg
0-100 kph: 4.5 sec (claimed)
Top speed: 306 kph
I immediately feel more ensconced in the car compared with the 930 Turbo, more dialled-in to what it is capable of. I have even more confidence in driving the car harder than I did when I positioned myself behind the 1979 car’s ‘wheel.
As I turn the key, a comparatively harder, more mechanical sound erupts from the 3.6-litre flat-6 and its exhaust tips, even just at idle speed.
The transmission has a perfect short throw through each gear, a feature that beckons me to change gears more than is necessary. Surely, I’m not the only one who has felt so compelled when behind the wheel of these cars? I sense there is no delay from the engine when you touch the throttle pedal.
Even at 2-, 3- or 4 000 rpm, there is enough torque to push this 1 380 kg car irrepressibly forward. But, this engine was never designed to potter around at these low engine speeds. After all, this engine’s roots can be traced back to Porsche’s Le Mans-winning GT1 – it has been written about numerous times.
I put my foot down and relish the rev needle surging intently just beyond 8 000 rpm. A clean shift into the next gear and, with my foot back on the throttle again, the clear metallic soundtrack continues. It is better to start your gear change 2- to 300 rpm before the redline, otherwise you will run into the limiter.
The first part of the brake-pedal travel is soft, which works out fine, because as the centre pedal starts to become firmer, it aligns with the accelerator pedal (should you wish to heel-and-toe). Even if you prefer to simply blip the throttle before a down change, the engine response is truly something to experience.
There is less body movement compared with the 930 Turbo, and the steering is extremely direct, while providing feedback by the bucket load. There are no electronic stability systems to bank on to save you from the ravages of physics, but grip levels are high, while the limited-slip differential can be trusted.
The result is that it takes a while to realise that you should apply the throttle earlier upon corner exit than you might have thought. It goes without saying that the 996 GT3’s grip levels are lower than those of contemporary 911 variants, but that is one of the highlights of these earlier GT3s. Things don’t happen as quickly in the newer cars, but you can have more fun at lower speeds… and more often.
It is an exhilarating drive, and every moment I have I want to plant the throttle, even if it is only for a second or 2 to experience the engine and how light the 996 GT3 feels on its, um, wheels.
Summary
For covering longer distances at considerable speed, I can see the appeal of a Porsche 911 (930) Turbo. It is a car in which you can travel in comfort for hours. The luxury and comfort factors go out the window with the 996 GT3, except if your requirements for comfort are vastly different to those of most people.
At the same time, the 996 GT3 will excite at every possible opportunity. It is a car that does not mind being driven hard and it will possibly put more smiles on your face through a mountain pass than the Porsche 911 (930) Turbo. Needless to say, variety is truly the spice of life, and that applies equally as much to the diversity of the Porsche 911 range.
With 2024 drawing to a rapid close, we set our sights on 2025 and list all the new cars coming to South Africa in 2025! What cars are you looking forward to most? See the list below!
Do you want to know what new cars are coming to South Africa in 2025? Cars.co.za has created the most comprehensive new car list for South Africa! Check it out!
With 2025 around the corner, South African car buyers have much to look forward to in terms of new car introductions. It will be a busy and important year for many car brands and buyers will have significantly more exciting cars to choose from in 2025.
New SUVs, large and small, account for the majority of new introductions but the market will also see a number of new electric vehicles reaching South Africa. Nonetheless, there are new and updated cars on the way to suit a wide range of budgets and needs, including entry-level cars and right up to ultra-luxurious cars and everything in between! There’s something for everyone in 2025!
Please note that this new car list is generated based on feedback from manufacturers as well as from what has been reported publicly by either Cars.co.za or elsewhere. We have tried our utmost to make this list as accurate and as definitive as possible. We will update this list regularly as we receive relevant information from manufacturers.
It’s also worth mentioning that arrival timings for new cars are tentative and are subject to change due to ongoing changes in the global supply chain.
Let’s take a look at what new cars are coming to South Africa in 2025!
Aston Martin Vanquish Volante & Vantage Roadster – 2025, TBC
We anticipate the arrival of no less than 2 Aston Martin convertibles during 2025. The Vanquish Volante is powered by a 5.2-litre V12 engine with 614 kW and 100 Nm and is claimed to accelerate from zero to 100kph in around 3.2 seconds before reaching a top speed of 344 kph.
In addition, the Aston Martin Vantage Roadster brings V8 power with a 4.0-litre bi-turbocahrged V8 under the bonnet with 375 kW and 685 Nm of torque resulting in a zero to 100 kph sprint time of just 3.6 seconds before reaching a top speed of 305 kph.
Built on Audi’s Premium Platform Combustion (PPC) architecture, the new third-generation Q5 SUV is due to arrive in South Africa in the fourth quarter of 2025 with a bold and sporty design language. The new Q5 Sportback is due to arrive locally in 2026.
The new Audi Q5 will initially be offered with a 48V mild-hybrid turbopetrol and -diesel powertrains, with PHEV derivatives to be added later. Although the SA line-up has yet to be finalised, the new Q5 will feature one or more of the following mild-hybrid (MHEV) powerplants, each of which will be mated with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Powertrain options include a 150 kW/340 Nm 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbopetrol engine in either front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive quattro guise. A 150 kW/400 Nm 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel with quattro all-wheel drive is likely as well as a 270 kW/550 Nm 3.0-litre V6 turbopetrol engine which will power the SQ5 quattro flagship.
Local specification and pricing details will be confirmed closer to launch.
BAIC is expected to introduce its BJ30 compact offroad SUV which will stand alongside the larger BJ40 and the Beijing 55 in the Chinese firm’s local lineup.
The BJ30 is powered by either a 1.5-litre turbopetrol engine with 138 kW and 305 Nm or a hybrid electric version that produces a combined output of 246 kW and 550 Nm. The BJ30 features a modern cabin architecture equipped with a 14.6-inch infotainment screen and a 10.25-inch instrument cluster.
Note that local specification and pricing details will be confirmed closer to arrival in 2025.
The new Bentley Continental GT Speed is the most powerful Bentley yet foregoing its lauded turbocharged 6.0-litre W12 engine in favour of a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and a 140 kW electric motor powertrain with 400-volt electrical architecture.
Peak outputs stand at 575 kW and 1 000 Nm and this powerful GT will go from zero to 100 kph in 3.2 seconds!
Pricing for South Africa was released in August 2024 with pricing starting from R7 500 000 for the Continental GT Speed V8 Hybrid Coupé while the Continental GTC Speed V8 Hybrid Convertible is priced from R8 225 000.
It’s expected to be a quiet 2025 for BMW as the German firm has only confirmed the new second-generation 2 Series Gran Coupe for local introduction in the second quarter.
The new BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe has a larger footprint than the model it replaces. Note the the ‘i’ has now been omitted from the badging and BMW will offer the front-wheel drive 218 with a 115 kW/230 Nm 1.5-litre turbocharged,3-cylinder petrol engine and an all-paw M235 xDrive with 233 kW and 400 Nm. A 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission is standard.
Local specifications and pricing details will be confirmed closer to launch.
BYD plans to introduce its Shark Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) in South Africa in the opening months of 2025. The BYD Shark will not only be the first PHEV bakkie to be offered in South Africa, but it will also be the most powerful bakkie on the market!
The BYD Shark is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine combined with a plug-in hybrid system featuring a 29.6 kWh battery pack and electric motors. Peak system outputs stand at 320 kW (170 kW and 310 Nm at the front and 150 kW and 340 Nm at the rear). Electric range is claimed at around 100 km and the Shark will be able to sprint from zero to 100 kph in 5.7 seconds.
The Chery Tiggo 9 is the largest vehicle in the Chinese carmaker’s lineup and the firm’s local arm has confirmed its arrival in the third quarter of 2025.
The Tiggo 9 will be offered with 2 powertrain options including a combustion engine and a PHEV option.
A 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine with 187 kW and 390 Nm of torque and paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission is expected. In addition, the Tiggo 9 range will be headlined with a Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) powertrain that pairs a 175 kW 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder turbopetrol engine with a 165 kW electric motor to offer a total system output of around 230 kW. An 8-speed automatic transmission is standard for the Tiggo 9 PHEV. All-electric range is claimed at 100km with a total range of around 1400 km.
Exact specification and pricing details will be confirmed closer to arrival.
Citroen has confirmed the arrival of its new Indian-built Basalt compact SUV in the first half of 2025 and it will slot in above the C3 Aircross in the firm’s local range.
The Basalt draws motivation from either a 60 kW / 115 naturally aspirated 1.2-litre petrol engine mated with a 5-speed transmission or a 81 kW turbocharged 1.2-litre petrol engine offering 190 Nm when paired with a 6-speed manual transmission or 205 Nm with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
It’s not yet clear what engine will offered in South Africa but we suspect that the familiar 1.2-litre turbopetrol engine is likely. Pricing and specification details will be confirmed closer to launch.
Chinese car manufacturer, DongFeng, is expected to open shop in South Africa in 2025 with its product strategy expected to be revealed in December 2024. We will provide updates as soon as further details come to light.
Ferrari will unleash its new 12Cilindri in both Coupe and Spider forms in the first quarter of 2025.
Powering the 12Cilindri is Ferarri’s stellar front-mounted 6.5-litre naturally aspirated 12-cylinder petrol engine with peak outputs of 610 kW and 678 Nm. An 8-speed dual-clutch transmission lights up the rear wheels and the 12 Cilindri is capable of sprinting from zero to 100kph in just 2.9 seconds before reaching 200 kph in 7.9 seconds and topping out at 340 kph.
Order books for the Ferrari 12Cilindri are open with pricing starting from R9 995 000.
Ford is expected to introduce a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version of the Ford Ranger which will be produced at the firm’s production facility in Silverton at the end of 2024. The Ford Ranger PHEV will be primarily produced for export but a local market introduction is expected in 2025.
The Ranger PHEV combines Ford’s familiar turbocharged 2.3-litre petrol engine with a 75 kW electric motor to produce peak outputs of 205 kW and 690 Nm. We’ll keep you updated as more news on a local introduction comes to the fore.
In addition to the Ranger PHEV, we wouldn’t be surprised to see another special edition Ranger or Everest join the local range too.
The P-Series has been a success for GWM in South Africa and the new year will usher in an updated version that will wear a P300 badge to set it apart from its predecessor. The P300 will slot in below the recently-launched P500.
Apart from featuring revised styling, the passenger-spec P300 will gain a new 2.4-litre turbodiesel engine with 135 kW and 480 Nm and come paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Meanwhile the familiar 120 kW / 400 Nm 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine will soldier on in the commercial spec offerings with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Haval will expand its local SUV offering with the addition of the new H7 or Big Dog II as this is the second-generation of the model which is finally expected to touch down in the first quarter of 2025.
Powering the new H7 Big Dog II is a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine that offers 175 kW and 385 Nm and is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. More details on local specification will be announced closer to launch.
Hyundai will expand its local SUV offering with the addition of the Indian-built Alcazar 6/7-seater that’s based on the Creta.
The Alcazar will be offered with either a 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine with 85 kW and 250 Nm and paired with a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission or a 1.5-litre turbopetrol engine with 118 kW and 253 Nm and paired with either a 6-speed manual or 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.
The interior of the Alcazar features a tech-forward design approach with a large 10.25-inch infotainment system and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster combined with the dashboard with a third control panel positioned in the lower dashboard. As a 6-seater, the second row can be had with 2 captain chairs for extra comfort.
Local specification and pricing will be confirmed closer to launch.
Isuzu’s CEO, Billy Tom, confirmed that the Japanese firm will look to launch facelifted iterations of the popular D-Max bakkie and MU-X SUV in 2025.
While the familiar 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine and the 1.9-litre turbodiesel engine offering will remain, styling changes can be expected to freshen up the range. An updated MU-X was revealed in Thailand earlier in 2024 which gives us a hint of what’s to come…
Jaecoo is set to have a busy year in 2025 with a host of new products expected throughout the year. The new J6 is an all-electric offroad SUV that can be had with either a single electric motor with 135 kW and 184 Nm or a more powerful dual electric J6 with 205 kW and 279 Nm with electric range pegged between 401 km to 501 km depending on the battery pack.
South African specification and pricing has yet to be confirmed.
The updated Gladiator can be expected towards the middle of 2025 with a subtle exterior styling revision and riding on new alloy wheel designs. The interior also gains a new 12.3-inch touchscreen!
The American brand’s naturally aspirated 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 petrol engine will remain with 209 kW and 347 Nm of torque on offer and paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Specification and pricing details will be confirmed closer to the Gladiator’s arrival in 2025.
Following the recent introduction of the Jetour Dashing and X70 Plus, the Chinese firm will look to expand its local range with the addition of the T2 offroader which will go head-to-head with the GWM Tank 300.
The T2 is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine that offers 186 kW and 390 Nm and is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Local specification and pricing will be confirmed closer to launch.
2025 is a big year for Kia as the brand will take the leap into the double-cab bakkie segment with the all-new Tasman!
Due in the second half of 2025, the Tasman features a bold design that’s sure to turn heads and get people talking. A 205 kW/421 Nm 2.5-litre turbopetrol engine powers the Tasman while some markets also offer a 154 KW/441 Nm 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine with a choice of a 8-speed automatic or 6-speed manual transmission.
If Kia can introduce the Tasman with a competitive pricing structure, we wouldn’t be surprised to see it gain market share in a short space of time.
Founded in 2015, Leapmotor is a Chinese carmaker specialising in the production of electric cars and is owned by Stellantis.
Leapmotor is expected to launch in South Africa in the second half of 2025 and the first model to arrive is the C10 SUV which will rival the Volvo XC60 Recharge. The C10 features a 160 kW electric motor with 320 Nm of torque while the 69.9 kWh battery pack offers an electric driving range of around 420 km.
Pricing and specifications will be confirmed closer to launch.
In June 2024, LDV South Africa said the first local deliveries of the D90 were scheduled for the start of the final quarter of this year. However, now the Chinese-owned brand has confirmed the 7-seater SUV won’t hit the local market until some point in 2025.
the D90 line-up is expected to comprise Elite and Flagship derivatives, each powered by the same 2.0-litre biturbodiesel engine employed by top-spec versions of the T60 bakkie. This 4-cylinder oil-burner generates 160 kW and 500 Nm, peak outputs that are delivered to all 4 wheels via a ZF-sourced 8-speed automatic transmission. Braked towing capacity is listed as 3 100 kg.
Lamborghini will introduce its first plug-in hybrid Urus SE in South Africa in 2025. Order books are open with pricing starting from R4 875 000.
The Urus SE is the most powerful Urus ever with 588 kW and 950 Nm developed from its twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 engine that works in conjunction with a powerful electric motor allowing for impressive performance. The sprint from zero to 100 kph is claimed in just 3.4 seconds before reaching a top speed of 312 kph. A 25.9 kWh lithium-ion battery allows for an all-electric driving range of around 60 km.
The most powerful Defender is coming to South Africa and it’s called the Defender Octa!
Using a BMW-sourced 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged mild-hybrid V8 petrol engine, the Defender Octa 110 produces a notable 467 kW and 750 Nm of torque and comes paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Acceleration from zero to 100 kph is claimed in just 4 seconds which is mighty fast for an SUV of this size.
Lexus is expected to welcome its first fully electric RZ SUV early in 2025.
Equipped with 2 electric motors, including a 150 kW front motor and a 80 kW rear motor, the RZ offers 250 kW and 435 Nm while claiming an electric cruising range of 450 km. As you’d expect from Lexus, the interior is luxurious and well-appointed.
Local pricing and specifications will be confirmed in due course.
Undoubtedly the hottest new car in the MG stable is the Cyberster EV Roadster! Equipped with stylish scissor doors and rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive EV performance, the Cyberster is perhaps one of the more exciting new cars to reach South Africa in 2025.
The Cyberster RWD version offers 250 kW and 475 Nm generated from a single, rear-mounted electric motor with an electric range of around 508 km and a claimed zero to 100 kph sprint time of 5 seconds! The more powerful Cyberster GT AWD has 2 electric motors offering a total output of 375 kW and 725 Nm. Electric range for this derivative drops to around 444 km but it boasts faster acceleration with MG claiming 3.2 seconds in the sprint from zero to 100 kph.
MINI will kick off the year with the arrival of the new Aceman! The Aceman is a compact electric crossover that slots in beneath the new Countryman but above the new Cooper hatchback.
A total of 2 Aceman derivatives are expected from launch. The Aceman E will offer 135 kW and 290 Nm and will be equipped with a 42.5 kWh battery that will allow for a claimed range of 310 km.
A more powerful Aceman SE will offer 160 kW and 330 Nm but will also have a larger 54.2 kWh battery that will push the claimed range up to 406 km.
We’ve been waiting for the new Mahindra Thar for a few years now and we’re holding thumbs that the Thar Roxx will finally go on sale in South Africa.
Seeing that South Africa is 4×4 crazy, an affordable and well-sorted offroad vehicle will sell well locally and the Thar Roxx ticks all the right boxes. The Thar Roxx is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine that produces 119 kW and 330 Nm in 6-speed manual form or 130 kW and 380 Nm in 6-speed automatic guise.
If you want a sexy topless Maserati, perhaps the MC20 Cielo will pique your interest. While the MC20 coupe is currently available in South Africa, the MC20 Cielo features a retractable glass roof, which employs Polymer-Dispersed Liquid Crystal technology that allows it to be transformed from clear to opaque at the touch of a button and it can be opened and closed in 12 seconds.
The 2-seater MC20 Cielo employs the same mid-mounted, twin-turbo 3.0-litre V6 Nettuno petrol engine as the coupé, producing a whopping 463 kW and 730 Nm. With drive delivered to the rear axle through an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, the spyder boasts a claimed 0-100 kph time of just 2.9 seconds (matching that of the coupé) and a top speed in excess of 325 kph.
The new generation Mercedes-AMG E53 will reach South Africa in 2025 as a plug-in hybrid (PHEV).
The AMG E53 4Matic features a potent powertrain comprising a 3.0-litre, 6-cylinder petro engine and an electric motor that generates total outputs of 430 kW and 750 Nm. Coupled with a 21.22 kWh battery, electric range is claimed at around 100km and charging takes around 20 minutes to charge from 10% to 80% using a DC fast charger.
As far as performance goes, the E53 will rocket from zero to 100 kph in 3.8 seconds!
South African specification and pricing will be revealed closer its arrival in 2025.
Mitsubishi will be introducing an important model in 2025. Enter the Outlander Sport!
Also known as the Xforce in other markets, the Outlander Sport is expected in the first quarter of 2025 and will do battle in the compact SUV segment, replacing the now old ASX. The newcomer will certainly help Mitsubishi gain traction in this popular segment and will employ a naturally aspirated 1.5-litre petrol engine (the same found in the Xpander) with 77 kW and 141 Nm of torque and paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
Local pricing and specification will be revealed closer to launch.
The C7 is a family-sized SUV to come from Omoda and while we wait for powertrain confirmation for South Africa, we expect to see Omoda’s 1.5- or 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine under the bonnet as well as a Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) powertrain option, the latter offering a range of around 1 200 km.
Pricing and specifications will be confirmed closer to launch.
In the absence of Opel’s OPC performance arm, fans of the German brand have been clamouring for a hotter Corsa for some time. Well, the Corsa Irmscher has been confirmed to arrive locally in February 2025!
Irmscher’s kit for the facelifted Opel Corsa includes bumper extensions, deeper side skirts, black bonnet and roof with red accents and a rear-mounted wing. The hotter Corsa rides on multi-spoke 18-inch Turbo Star alloy wheels. The suspension has also been lowered by 30mm for visual effect.
The Corsa’s 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine is likely to see a slight upgrade with a 15 kW power boost which will take the power output from 74 kW to 89kW!
Look out for more details in the near future, pricing will be announced closer to launch.
The Peugeot 2008 has received a midlife update and is due to arrive in South Africa in April 2025. while the current 96 kW / 230 Nm 1.2-litre turbopetrol engine will be carried over, the major changes are visible on the outside and inside the cabin. The electric E-2008, pictured above will not be offered in South Africa…
The updated 2008 wears a thoroughly revised front end with a new lateral grille execution, vertically stacked Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) and a 3-bar lighting signature. Inside, the 2008 is fitted with a new 10-inch infotainment system but most of the cabin architecture is still intact and familiar from the outgoing iteration.
Local specification and pricing details will come to light closer to launch.
Porsche will unleash its updated 911 GT3 in the first quarter of 2025. Updates include aerodynamic enhancements as well as revised damper setting and an upgraded steering setup. The iconic 4.0-litre naturally-aspirated flat-6 petrol engine has been retained and continues to thump out 375 kW and 450 Nm.
High performance is standard and the Porsche 911 GT3 accelerates to 100 kph in just 3.4 seconds with a PDK transmission and reaches a top speed of 311 kph. If you opt for the manual gearbox, expect 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 313 kph.
2025 will be a busy year for Renault as the French firm prepares to launch numerous new and updated products in South Africa.
The Duster is a major success story for Renault and the launch of the new Duster is significant. The rugged appeal of the Duster has been retained but previous Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) options are making way for electrically assisted powertrains.
South Africa is likely to see the 96 kW 1.2-litre 3-cylinder turbopetrol engine with 48-volt mild-hybrid technology locally. In other markets, a dual electric hybrid powertrain with a 1.6-litre petrol engine is offered but is unlikely to reach South Africa.
The new Subaru Forester was revealed back in 2023 but lack of availability has stalled its arrival in South Africa, which is now expected in the third quarter of 2025.
The Forester’s familiar 136 kW / 239 Nm naturally aspirated 2.5-litre petrol engine and the 115 kW / 196 Nm 2.0-litre motor is expected to be carried over when it arrives. The cabin has been thoroughly updated and will feature the latest 11.6-inch portrait touchscreen and the firm’s latest EyeSight Driver Assist technology.
Pricing and specification will be confirmed closer to launch.
The current Tank 300 range comprises a petrol engine option and a HEV powertrain option. However, a diesel-powered Tank 300 is expected to join the range in the first quarter of 2025.
The compact offroader will house a 2.4-litre turbodiesel engine with 135 kW and 480 Nm of torque and will be paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The diesel-driven Tank 300 is also expected to address criticism of high fuel consumption by offering local buyers a more fuel-efficient driving experience.
Pricing and specification details will be released closer to launch.
Like some other car brands, Toyota keeps its future product plans closely guarded. Nonetheless, earlier in 2024 at the firm’s local SOMI event, Toyota confirmed plans to introduce the bZ4X Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) in South Africa.
Toyota is well-known for dominating the hybrid car market in South Africa with its Corolla Cross Hybrid accounting for the majority of the firm’s New Energy Vehicle (NEV) sales locally. Built on Toyota’s e-TNGA platform, the bZ4X will join the mix as a fully electric vehicle equipped with a 71.4 kWh battery which is said to provide a range of 450 km and with total power outputs of either 150 kW and 265 Nm (single electric motor) or 160 kW and 336 Nm (dual electric motor) depending on the derivative.
Local pricing and specifications will be revealed closer to the launch.
With the Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace falling away with the introduction of the new Tiguan family car, the new Tayron will be introduced to replace the spacious Allspace.
Slotting in between the Tiguan and the larger Touareg, the Tayron is expected to feature the same powertrain options as the Tiguan which will include a 110 kW / 250 Nm 1.4 turbopetrol engine and a larger 140 kW / 350 Nm 2.0-litre turbopetrol engine, both mated with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.
You can expect to see the Tayron in Volkswagen dealerships in the third quarter of 2023. Pricing and specification details will be communicated closer to launch.
Volvo is transitioning to all-electric mobility and the Swedish brand is currently the most successful electric vehicle brand in South Africa with the EX30, C40, XC40 Recharge, XC60 Recharge leading the, erm, charge…
In 2025, Volvo will welcome its flagship EX90 SUV in South Africa which will solidify the firm’s grip on the local EV market. You can expect at least 2 derivatives when the EX90 arrives including the 300 kW /770 Nm EX90 Twin Motor or the range-topping EX90 Twin Motor Performance with 380 kW and 910 Nm.
Thanks to a 111 kWh (of which 107 kWh is usable) battery, the Volvo’s claimed range is between 570 and 614 km (WLTP). The vehicle supports DC fast-charging up to 250 kW, which allows 10% to 80% to be replenished in around 30 minutes. As a reminder, the fastest chargers in South Africa rank at 200 kW.
While the ZS Core is the value-oriented compact family car offering in MG’s local line-up, the Chinese brand will slot the newer generation of the model, named the ZS Pro, above it in 2025. Our correspondent, who drove it in China, gives us a preview.
After sampling some of the new models that the returning Chinese brand offers/will offer in Mzansi, I reckon the MG ZS is the one (in Core and, later, Pro guise) that will find its way to many of our driveways.
Sure, the larger and slightly more impressive MG HS – MG’s 2nd-gen medium SUV – is already here and the MG3 hatchback – charming, intrinsically European in look/feel, and very likely to challenge hard in its segment – is coming, but the latter’s segment (compact 5-door cars) is but a shadow of its former self.
The MG ZS, however, is fighting other compact family cars/small crossovers and is looking to bloody the noses of not just the European, Korean and Japanese stalwarts, but also a glut of Chinese rivals.
What MG arguably has going for it, is some pedigree and substantial financial backing. I won’t pretend that Morris Garages has a tonne of brand cachet in South Africa in 2024, but the British marque’s badge used to be synonymous with sportiness and innovation.
MG is exactly a century old, now the purveyor of the petrol-powered and hybridised models mentioned earlier, in addition to an electric sportscar: the Cyberster, which has also been launched in Mzansi.
More crucially, MG’s coffers are full and healthy since SAIC (China’s largest state-owned vehicle manufacturer) has acquired it. But, to quote Joe Pretorius, MG Motor SA’s Marketing Manager: “The ZS is the right product at the right price”. Well, time will tell, but first, allow me to clear up some confusion.
Indeed, our market will welcome the new ZS Pro in the first half of 2025, but the MG ZS Core is already in the Chinese brand’s local line-up. Before you run out and grab one, you should know that the MG Core model is meant to be an affordable small crossover offering, because it is the older iteration of the ZS.
Put another way, MG has rolled out the older model first and the newer one will follow next year, when MG Motor SA will sell them side-by-side at different price points – well, that is the plan, anyway.
A 2-pronged MG ZS line-up
Whereas the ZS Core (shown above) kind of resembles a 5-year-old Mazda CX-5, the MG ZS Pro features the same style signatures as its contemporary siblings, and it’s that model we’ll focus on here.
Design-wise, you can tell the ZS Pro is related to its bigger sibling (the MG HS); it looks more up-to-date and characterful than the ZS Core. MG says the headlamps are “feline-inspired”… I don’t know about all of that, but they’re attractive projector items with LED DRLs and they’re joined by a narrow bonnet line.
Beneath them, the bumper features a gaping (mesh) grille flanked by a pair of similarly finished air dams, which creates a floating graphic. It’s all underpinned by a silver diffuser for a bit of machismo and the result is attractive overall, if not quite striking enough to be noticed in a parking lot full of SUVs.
Then again, that was probably the brief. Move to the rear and it’s more of the same – inoffensive-looking, functional, and vaguely familiar ie. large wedge-shaped tail lamps and the obligatory tail-pipe finishers ensconced in a silver diffuser surrounded by the chunky black plastic – all classic softroader hallmarks.
The ZS Pro will also be available in Comfort and Luxury trim grades; whereas the former will be fitted with silver 17-inch alloys – they’re machine-finished on the Luxury.
Both iterations have a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbopetrol engine that produces 84 kW/150 Nm and is paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. This enables the ZS Pro derivatives to have a top speed of 195 kph and an average fuel economy figure of 7.1 L/100 km, MG claims.
Globally, the ZS Pro receives a hybridised version of this drivetrain, but we don’t have confirmation on whether it will also be offered in our Chinese-built models – if so, it will be offered at a slight premium.
Clambering aboard reveals a handsome interior, with a stylish mix of dark surfaces, a restrained amount of silver accents and the bold MG badge on the helm, which sure looks the part. It feels right to have this brand back on our roads and, if I’m being honest, the ZS is making quite an impression on me so far.
The cabin is pleasingly ergonomic, well-lit and just as well-appointed, with an abundance of technology and safety systems in place. To earn its 5-star Euro NCAP crash safety rating, MG has deployed its full “Active Safety” package in the ZS Pro – ABS with EBD and brake assist, 6 airbags (dual front-, side- and curtain airbags), electronic stability control and a tyre-pressure monitoring system are standard.
The fascia is dominated by an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system (equipped with a reverse-view camera on the Luxury variant). What’s more, virtually all the connectivity you could ask for (USB ports, Bluetooth telephony and streaming and Apple Carplay/Android Auto screen-mirroring tech) is provided.
For your added peace of mind, MG has fitted rear PDC, remote central locking, speed-activated door locking, electric windows (with one-touch for the driver), electrically folding and -heated side mirrors, remote steering wheel controls and a 4-speaker audio system (the latter on the Comfort derivative).
The top-of-the-range Luxury enjoys a 6-speaker system with 3D sound, plus cruise- and climate control.
What is the MG ZS Pro like to drive?
Our ZS Pro test car was a petrol-electric hybrid unit and even at pullaway, I was immediately – but pleasantly – surprised by a drivetrain that was eager to go places, albeit not terribly quickly. Once it was up to speed, the MG felt poised and would continue to do its part as the handling course got twistier.
No, this is not a sporty MG model by any means, but as a mildly athletic small crossover, the ZS Pro can hold its own – not that there’s any large enough amount of grunt here that could get you in any kind of trouble. I did miss reach adjustment on the steering column, so wasn’t able to get perfectly comfortable behind the ‘wheel and there was a fair bit of road-noise intrusion, but not so much as to be distracting.
Summary
There is a lot to like about the MG ZS Pro. Like its siblings, it will come with a competitive warranty (5 years/200 000 km vehicle & 7 years/unlimited km on the engine), plus a 5-year/60 000 km service plan. Pricing will be revealed shortly before launch (to reiterate, at some point before the middle of 2025), but MG Motor SA knows the ZS Pro will need to be keenly priced to be competitive in this cutthroat segment.
The compact family car/small crossover market is massive – and bristles with talent. MG enters the local market when Western brands are struggling to do business, and new models from China and India have proliferated. I can’t pretend to imagine how different our roads will look in 2 years purely in terms of what cars will survive, but it wouldn’t surprise me if the MG ZS (Core and especially, -Pro) thrives.
The new MG HS is the freshly relaunched brand’s take on a family SUV. Here’s what this 2nd-gen model – pitched against the likes of Haval H6 – costs in South Africa…
Officially relaunched in South Africa after an 8-year pause, the MG Motor range kicks off with the entry-level ZS (Core) crossover and tops out with the flagship Cyberster electric roadster. But what’s in the middle? Well, the MG HS family SUV neatly fills that slot.
Measuring 4 655 mm from front to back (with a wheelbase of 2 765 mm), the MG HS arrives in Mzansi in 2nd-generation form – sharing much with parent company SAIC Motor’s Chinese-market Roewe RX5 – and is quite close in size to the Haval H6. It’s also very similarly priced.
The 4-strong HS line-up starts with the MG HS 1.5T Comfort 7DCT, which is priced at R499 900, followed by the MG HS 1.5T Luxury 7DCT for R534 900. These derivatives are powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder petrol motor delivering 125 kW and 275 Nm to the front wheels through a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission as standard. Maximum speed is a claimed 195 kph, while combined consumption is listed as 6.9 L/100 km.
In addition to the basic safety kit (including 7 airbags and rear parking sensors), the HS boasts plenty of driver-assistance technology, such as front-and-rear collision warning, lane-departure warning, emergency lane-keep assist, lane-change assist, blind-spot detection, rear cross traffic alert (and braking), a driver-monitoring system and intelligent cruise assist.
Inside, you’ll find items like 12.3-inch dual screens, a 360-degree camera system and perforated leatherette upholstery. The 1.5T Luxury variant furthermore scores a panoramic sunroof, rear privacy glass, an 8-speaker audio system (2 more than the 1.5T Comfort), front parking sensors, electrically adjustable (and heated) front seats, dual-zone climate control and a wireless smartphone charger.
Interestingly, MG Motor SA has also released pricing for a pair of more powerful 2.0T derivatives, which were initially expected to arrive only later. While official information on this larger-capacity engine is thin on the ground, we do know this likewise 4-cylinder motor generates 170 kW and 370 Nm, peak outputs that are delivered to the front wheels via a 9-speed torque-converter automatic transmission.
This engine – which has a claimed combined fuel consumption of 8.6 L/100 km – is likewise available in both the aforementioned trim levels, with the MG HS 2.0T Comfort AT priced at R629 900 and the MG HS 2.0T Luxury AT coming in at R665 900. All HS derivatives ship standard with a 5-year/200 000 km warranty on the vehicle, a 7-year/unlimited kilometre warranty on the engine and a 5-year/90 000 km service plan.
How much does the MG HS cost in South Africa?
MG HS 1.5T Comfort 7DCT – R499 900
MG HS 1.5T Luxury 7DCT – R534 900
MG HS 2.0T Comfort 9AT – R629 900
MG HS 2.0T Luxury 9AT – R665 900
The prices above include a 5-year/200 000 km warranty on the vehicle a 7-year/unlimited kilometre warranty on the engine, plus a 5-year/90 000 km service plan.
This is the new Kia Syros, a small boxy model described as a “new species of SUV”. And, from where we’re sitting, it looks likely to be on the table for South Africa…
Meet the new Kia Syros, revealed in India and potentially in line for South Africa. Described as a “new species of SUV”, this boxy model is built on what the South Korean firm calls a “reinforced” version of the K1 platform, an architecture that also underpins pint-sized Hyundai siblings like the Grand i10 and Exter.
So, will we see this newcomer in Mzansi? Well, Kia South Africa earlier didn’t rule out the possibility, telling Cars.co.za in November 2024 that it “will look at all product made available to SA in right-hand drive and evaluate all possibilities” to ensure it brings in “the right product at the right price” for the local market.
Furthermore, it’s interesting to note the automaker’s head office in Seoul applied to trademark the “Syros” badge locally in March 2024, with the status currently listed as “pending”. Of course, we should point out that an application to protect a badge is no guarantee the brand will use the nameplate in question.
The new Syros is set to slot into the (narrow) gap between the likewise Indian-made Sonet and Seltos, though is very similar in size to the former. Indeed, the 3 995-mm-long Syros is only slightly wider and taller than the Sonet, while its 2 550 mm wheelbase is 50 mm lengthier.
Though the exterior design is seemingly inspired by the likes of the fully EV3 and EV9, the boxy silhouette is not dissimilar to that of the Soul (a model no longer built in right-hand drive). These proportions, however, unlock what appears to be a more practical cabin than that of the Sonet.
Indeed, Kia says the Syros boasts “first in-segment” sliding, reclining and ventilated 60:40-split seats at the rear, along with other big-car features, such as a dual-pane panoramic sunroof, a Harman Kardon sound system, wireless smartphone charging and various driver-assistance systems.
Standard safety features for the Syros in the world’s most populous nation include electronic stability control, hill-start assist and 6 airbags. The Indian-spec model’s cabin furthermore features a whopping 30-inch panoramic display panel along with 64-colour ambient lighting and a 4-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat.
What about engine options? Well, in India, Kia will offer the new Syros with the choice of 2 powertrains. The first is a turbocharged 1.0-litre petrol engine (1.0 T-GDi) sending 88 kW and 172 Nm to the front axle via either a 6-speed manual gearbox or a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Buyers will also have the option of a 1.5-litre turbodiesel motor (1.5 CRDi VGT) directing 85 kW and 250 Nm to the front wheels through either a 6-speed manual cog-swapper or a torque-converter automatic ‘box with the same number of gears.
Customer deliveries in India are expected to start in February 2025, so if the Syros does end up getting the official nod for South Africa, we’d expect it to arrive towards the very end of 2025 or – perhaps more likely – only in 2026.
The MG ZS arrives in South Africa as the freshly relaunched brand’s most affordable crossover, kicking off at under R300k. Is this MG’s answer to the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro?
MG has officially returned to South Africa and its volume driver is expected to be this: the MG ZS. So, how much does this compact crossover cost in Mzansi?
Well, before we take a look at local pricing, it’s worth pointing out the ZS available at launch in South Africa is the 1st-generation model, which has been in production since 2017. The 2nd-gen version, however, is tipped to arrive in the opening half of 2025, likely wearing the “ZS Pro” badge and positioned above the older model (which we expect to soldier on as the “ZS Core”).
With that out of the way, back to the topic at hand. In South Africa, the original ZS launches in 2 flavours: the MG ZS 1.5 Comfort 4AT for R289 900 and the MG ZS 1.5 Luxury 4AT for R309 900. That sees this model debut with a foot in the highly competitive sub-R300k segment and the other just outside it.
So, where does this model fit into Mzansi’s broader crossover market? Well, measuring 4 314 mm from snout to rump, it’s very similar in length to the popular Chery Tiggo 4 Pro (which currently runs from R269 900 to R415 900). Though it interestingly undercuts the slightly larger Haval Jolion (currently priced from R345 950), it also finds itself competing with a throng of smaller Indian-built crossovers, based on price alone.
Both ZS derivatives employ a naturally aspirated 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine, delivering 84 kW and 150 Nm to the front wheels via a 4-speed automatic transmission. MG Motor SA claims a top speed of 195 kph and a combined fuel economy of 7.1 L/100 km in each case. Luggage space is listed as 357 litres, expandable to 1 166 litres with the rear bench dropped.
The Comfort and Luxury trim levels both feature electronic stability control, 6 airbags, tyre-pressure monitoring and rear parking sensors as standard. The Comfort grade, however, comes with a 4-speaker sound system and cloth-trimmed seats, while the Luxury model upgrades to 6 speakers and leatherette upholstery. An 8-inch touchscreen is standard, with the Luxury grade furthermore featuring a reverse-view camera.
MG Motor SA is set to kick off its retail operations in the final few days of 2024, the year in which the brand celebrates its centenary. Founded 100 years ago as “Morris Garages” in the United Kingdom, MG is these days run by Chinese group SAIC Motor, a state-owned manufacturer that is also responsible for the LDV marque.
Officially under the stewardship of Shanghai-based SAIC Motor since around 2007, MG began its previous re-entry to South Africa late in 2011, though again exited the local market in 2016. Now, some 8 years later, it’s back, describing itself as “100% committed to the South African market”.
How much does the MG ZS cost in South Africa?
MG ZS 1.5 Comfort 4AT – R289 900
MG ZS 1.5 Luxury 4AT – R309 900
The prices above include a 5-year/200 000 km warranty on the vehicle and a 7-year/unlimited kilometre warranty on the engine, plus a 5-year/60 000 km service plan.
How much will the new MG Cyberster cost in SA? Well, the 100-year-old brand has released pricing for its 375 kW electric roadster, which comes complete with scissor doors…
Yes, MG is officially back in South Africa after an 8-year absence. While the launch line-up includes a pair of crossovers (the ZS and HS), the model hogging the headlines has been the flagship MG Cyberster. So, how much does this fully electric roadster cost?
Well, the Chinese-backed brand – which returns to Mzansi just in time to celebrate its centenary – has released pricing for its svelte 2-seater electric roadster. Slotting in at the very peak of MG’s local range, the Cyberster is priced from R1 399 900. In the local soft-top market, that sees it slot in between the 285 kW BMW Z4 M40i (R1 332 760) and 167 kW Mercedes-Benz CLE200 Cabriolet AMG Line (R1 527 271).
Interestingly, it seems only the full-fat, all-wheel-drive version (there’s also a lower-powered, rear-driven iteration offered in some markets) will be sold in South Africa, offering a whopping 375 kW and 725 Nm courtesy of dual electric motors.
The Cyberster draws its urge from a 77 kWh lithium-ion battery pack that accepts a maximum AC charge rate of 7 kW and maximum DC charge rate of 144 kW. MG claims a single-charge WLTP range of 443 km, a 0-100 kph time of just 3.2 seconds (using launch control) and a top speed of 208 kph.
The SA-spec Cyberster rides on 20-inch alloy wheels (framing Brembo brakes), while a quartet of drive modes (Comfort, Sport, Custom and Super Sport) along with 4 regenerative braking modes are standard. The roadster features an electrically operated fabric hood that can be opened or closed in 15 seconds at speeds up to about 50 kph.
Previewed by a concept released in 2021, the production Cyberster – complete with scissor doors – was revealed in 2023. Officially under the stewardship of Shanghai-based SAIC Motor since around 2007, MG began its previous re-entry to South Africa late in 2011, though again exited the local market in 2016. Now, some 8 years later, it’s back, with the halo Cyberster leading the charge…
How much does the MG Cyberster cost in South Africa?
MG Cyberster – R1 399 900
The price above includes a 5-year/200 000 km warranty on the vehicle a 7-year/250 000 km warranty on the powertrain, plus a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan.
One night stand with the new Mustang: Is old school still cool?
We get behind the wheel of the latest generation Ford Mustang for a night cruise on the busy streets. Is this the best version of the iconic muscle car?
The new Ford Mustang bucks the trend of downsizing and electrifying by sticking with its 5.0 V8 engine and rear-driven chassis. Whoever thought that old school thinking would be such a breath of fresh air in an ever-complicated motoring landscape?
In this video, Jacob Moshokoa drives the new Ford Mustang at night on the roads of Cape Town, blipping the V8 engine at every opportunity and listening to the crackle and backfire from the exhausts. Yes, it’s theatrical, but is the new Mustang any good? Or does it even need to be good for you to like it…?
