Audi TT RS (2021) Review

We recently sampled Audi’s latest iteration of its TT RS on a picturesque ribbon of asphalt on the Cape Peninsula. Have mild styling tweaks to the Ingolstadt firm’s "supercar slayer" improved its purchasing proposition sufficiently to dissuade buyers from purchasing rival models made by Porsche, BMW and Toyota?

We Like: Scintillating performance, engine sound, interior build quality, bang-for-buck performance

We Don’t Like: Fuel consumption increases when you are having fun…

Fast Facts:

Model tested: Audi TT RS Coupe
Price: R1 069 000 (April 2021)
Engine: 2.5-litre, 5-cylinder
Power/Torque: 294 kW/480 Nm
Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch
Fuel consumption: 8.7 L/100 km (claimed)
Load space: 305 litres

What is it?

The Audi TT RS punches way above its weight and it has the ability to shame many performance cars that cost far more…

Audi’s 3rd-generation TT was launched in South Africa in 2016 and our most recent encounter with the range-topping TT RS was 2 years ago. Since then, the TT RS has received a mild facelift and even though Audi has left its charge's sonorous and thrusting 2.5-litre, 5-cylinder engine untouched, this latest iteration is purported to be the sharpest version of the 2+2 coupe yet…

In terms of visual differentiators, the updated TT RS can be specified with this new striking Kyalami Green body colour and is instantly recognisable by virtue of its matt titanium-look quattro logo (at the base of the RS honeycomb grille), which is flanked by noticeably larger air dams. At the rear, a sporty fixed-wing (with winglets) lends the TT RS a more dynamic and purposeful stance, while the large-bore dual oval exhaust outlets (set in an RS-specific diffuser) are clear indicators that there’s far more to this car than you might expect! Does it still represent good value as a sportscar, however? Let's find out.

How fast is the Audi TT RS?

A newly-designed fixed-wing enhances the look of the TT RS and those oval tailpipes emit glorious noises too…

Let us put it this way… The TT RS has the ability to give notably more expensive (and exotic) machinery a good wallop in a 0-to-100 kph dash; its performance is so compelling that you may swiftly come to the realisation that you don’t need to spend exorbitant sums of money to access considerable levels of performance. The TT RS packs a serious punch!

On paper, the TT RS is claimed to have a 0-to-100 kph sprint time of 3.7 sec, which is mightily impressive. For context, that’s half a second faster than its main rival, the BMW M2 Competition, and only half a second slower than the V10-engined Audi R8 supercar – let that sink in for a second… Top speed is limited to 250 kph, but you can optionally increase the top speed to 280 kph.

The engine responsible for creating the magic is, of course, Audi’s familiar 2.5-litre, 5-cylinder turbopetrol engine, which develops a hearty 294 kW/480 Nm and is mated with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission; power is directed to the tar via Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system. With a kerb weight of 1 450 kg, the TT RS feels decisively quick off the line and its acceleration is, in a word, stupendous!

What’s the Audi TT RS like to drive?

Equipped with 20-inch wheels and sport suspension plus, the TT RS' ride is firm but delivers excellent handling ability.

It’s a blast! The Audi's multifunction steering wheel is equipped with the familiar red engine start-stop button which, when pressed, brings the sonorous 5-pot to life with a deep gurgle and a percussive pop, which set the tone for what’s to come. The TT RS is equipped with an active exhaust system and by pushing the exhaust button located in the centre console, you can amplify the engine sound. Suffice to say, the powerplant sounds marvellous when you rev it out; for enthusiasts (for who this car is intended), it will evoke nostalgia for Audi's all-conquering Group B world rally cars from the early Eighties.

The driver can toggle between drive modes (including comfort, auto, dynamic and individual) by using the steering-mounted drive select button. In dynamic mode, the TT RS is fully primed to deliver peak performance (and it certainly doesn’t disappoint), while the steering-mounted shift paddles can be used to actuate fast "manual" gear changes. What we arguably like most about the TT RS is just how easily it delivers its punch. It’s not intimidating to drive quickly and, because the Audi's so confidently planted to the tar, it affords its pilots ample opportunities to enjoy the chassis- and engine characteristics fully.

For this particular test, we took the TT RS for a drive around the Cape Peninsula and if you are familiar with these spectacularly scenic roads, they serve as a good suspension test for any vehicle (not only sportscars) because the road surface is generally poor and uneven. This TT RS is equipped with Sport Suspension Plus with adaptive damping (a R14 950 optional extra) and even though it’s firmly sprung, which is to be expected, the Audi's ride quality is still fairly pliant/not as compromised as we thought it would be. In comfort mode, the ride softens up, making the coupe more useable for daily commuting.

Fuel consumption is on the high side when you are having fun, but who cares?

One of the TT RS’ main strengths is its handling ability. The steering is impressively sharp and instantly responsive to driver inputs, which means the flagship TT can be hustled into corners at heady speeds with supreme accuracy and confidence. Also, because the TT RS has such a wide and low stance (not to mention the broad footprints of its sticky tyres), grip levels are high and you can effectively pile on the pace and power through corners (not just after exiting them) with impressive zeal. The TT RS’s performance is highly addictive and it delivers fun and driving enjoyment by the proverbial boatload.

For those of you who care about the uncompromising performance machine's "fuel efficiency", Audi claims an average consumption figure of 8.7 L/100 km for the TT RS. We were having so much fun in the test unit that the trip computer returned 12.8 L/100 km, but we are quite certain that if you adopt a frugal driving style you could get that figure closer to 10 L/100 km, but then, why would you want to?

What’s the interior like?

Audi's RS sport seats provide good support and they are electrically adjustable. Seat heating is optional…

The interior of the updated TT RS hasn’t changed drastically, but overall perceived build quality (fit and finish) remains impressive. There are carbon fibre trim elements on the steering wheel, centre console and door handles that add some sportiness to the cabin. Audi is very good at producing fuss-free, minimalist cabins and this TT RS’ interior is a fine example of the adage “less is more”… it really is!

Given that the TT RS is such a driver-focused machine, we find the absence of a touchscreen infotainment system quite refreshing. Entertainment-, telephony- as well as navigation functions can, however, be accessed through using the MMI controls in the centre console or by utilising the buttons on the multifunction steering wheel. Functions are displayed on Audi’s 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit (digital instrument cluster) and you can easily sift through settings and vehicle information without taking your hands off the 'wheel. You can also change the layout of the screen's display to suit your preference/requirements.

In a world in which car interiors are becoming increasingly complex and technologically loaded, the TT RS' human-machine electronic interface is still wonderfully simple; it's certainly worth appreciating.

Less is more in the Audi TT RS. This is a nice place to be…

Other nice-to-have interior features include electrically adjustable Nappa leather-trimmed RS sports seats, Alcantara accents on the transmission lever and steering wheel, climate control, a reverse-view camera, plus front and rear park distance control. This test unit was also equipped with optional seat heating, a wireless charging pad and a (quite delectable) Bang & Olufsen premium sound system.

Even though the current generation TT is already over 5 years old, we think the coupe's interior is ageing beautifully, which is worth knowing for long-term ownership.

Is the TT RS practical?

This is a 2+2 sports car, so the focus is predictably on performance rather than practicality. Nonetheless, the TT RS is a reasonably practical offering. Sure, it’s not really suitable for family use, but if needs must, small children can be seated in the rear and there are even ISOfix child-seat mounts fitted (if you wish to fit a child seat or two).

I used the TT RS to go surfing on the peninsula and I am happy to report that the interior can accommodate a 6-foot surfboard fairly easily, which means that you can transport longer items if you need to. Also, luggage space is not as compromised as you might think – while the load area is long but not very deep, Audi still claims a "generous" capacity of 305 litres.

As for its practicality as "a daily", the TT RS strikes an acceptable balance between sportiness and driving comfort. You can drive the TT RS every day (probably with a big smile plastered to your face).

How much does the Audi TT RS cost in South Africa?

The Audi TT RS Coupe is priced from R1 069 000 and the TT RS Roadster from R1 113 500 (April 2021). A 1-year/unlimited km warranty and a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan are included.

Buy an Audi TT on Cars.co.za

Verdict

What car is this fast at this price? The Audi TT RS makes a strong case for itself…

Given its price tag of just over R1 million (R1 069 000), the TT RS offers a level of (stonking) performance that is difficult to match rand-for-rand. Yes, it scores highly in the bang-for-buck stakes and, don’t forget the magical engine sound it emits! Rivalling products from BMW, Porsche and Toyota each have their own USPs, but even so, the TT RS just seems to nail that winning sportscar formula on the head.

It still looks phenomenal in the metal, it sounds great, it’s blisteringly fast and delivers mega performance. What's more, its interior design is not only aesthetically pleasing but complements the overall package, all of which can be had at just over R1 million. What’s not to like about the TT RS? Also, don't forget that the TT was also a Fun Car category winner in the 2015/16 iteration of the #CarsAwards.

Granted, the TT is getting on in years – there are newer and arguably more sought-after machines on the market. Nevertheless, the TT RS remains one of Audi’s finest driver’s cars. As widely reported, the future of the TT (and indeed the R8) hangs in the balance; Audi won’t be investing in new engine development due to ever-tightening emissions regulations and, as brands prepare to roll out a slew of all-new EV products, it's a sad reality there won't be successors to the TT and R8, at least not as we know them. Maybe, just maybe, that alone is enough reason to buy a TT RS or at least consider it…

Depending on where your allegiances lie, alternatives to the Audi TT RS include the BMW M2 Competition, Toyota GR Supra and the Porsche 718 Cayman. Which one would you choose?

Facelifted Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace Teased

Volkswagen has teased the updated version of the 7-seater Tiguan Allspace. Here's what we know so far.

The Volkswagen Tiguan facelift is on its way to South Africa and should be here soon, but what about its more practical 7-seater Allspace sibling? Volkswagen has teased this image ahead of the vehicle's production reveal on the 12th May 2021.

With over 6 million sales since the model's introduction back in 2007, the Volkswagen Tiguan is one of the Wolfsburg-based brand's most important models. The market has shifted dramatically in favour of the SUV body style and Volkswagen wants to maintain its strong sales record. The Tiguan Allspace is essentially a stretched-out version of the standard Tiguan – an excellent demonstration of the MQB platform's versatility.

The Allspace is 22 cm longer than the Tiguan and has been on sale since 2017, plugging the gap left by the Volkswagen MPV range – a segment that has seen a tremendous decline. Volkswagen claims 55% of all Tiguans sold have been the Allspace.

What has changed? While details are scarce, we suspect the same enhancements seen in the standard Tiguan will be carried over. Volkswagen claims there'll be a fresh new design, as well as the addition of advanced technical features. There will new control and assist systems for added convenience as well as the obligatory online-based connectivity options.

Volkswagen says the Allspace will be offered as the Tiguan L made in China for that market while the long-wheelbase Tiguan versions for North and South America, and the Tiguan Allspace for Europe will be made in Puebla, Mexico.

Set your reminders for the 12th May 2021, when the Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace will be revealed.

There are some good deals on the pre-facelifted Volkswagen Tiguan currently – take a look

Ferrari 812 Competizione Goes Official

After a short teaser campaign, Ferrari has revealed its 812 Competizione, a faster and lighter version based on the already performance-focused 812 Superfast.

Not just one, but two vehicles were revealed during Ferrari's presentation. There's not just the 812 Competizione, but also the targa-top derivative called the 812 Competitizione Aperta.

The Ferrari 812 Superfast lived up to its name, but the Italian supercar maker has taken things up a notch. The V12 has been enhanced with lighter and stronger internals and the rev-limiter has been moved to 9 500 rpm. Power outputs are now rated at 610 kW and 692 Nm, making it the most powerful V12 Ferrari ever made.

Performance is spectacular with a claimed 0-100 kph of 2.85 seconds and a 0-200 kph of 7.5 seconds. A top speed of over 340 kph is claimed. There are huge brakes to help bring the beast to a stop. Ferrari has also put the car on a diet and there's liberal splashings of carbon fibre everywhere in an effort to make it lighter than the current 812 Superfast.

To make the 812 Competizione sharper around the corners, there's 4-wheel steering that's independently controlled at each wheel and there's some trick aerodynamics to increase downforce.

New Honda N7X Shown with 7-Seats

Honda has shown a new 3-row gravel-travel vehicle…

Is Honda going after Toyota’s Fortuner business? Not quite, but somewhat.

In an attempt to gain greater relevance in the SUV segment, Honda has revealed its new N7X concept.

The images show a vehicle that is close to production specification, with a mildly conservative design.

The N7X features a defined shoulder pinch line, liberally borrowed from Tiguan, and LED headlights with Daytime Running Lights while fancy patterned LED lighting is seen at the rear.

The most important feature of this new N7X, is its seating configuration. Honda doesn’t have a competitive 7-seater crossover or SUV and the N7X, as one would deduce from its name, is supposed to lead that charge.

In markets where gravel travel is a thing, such as Australia, India, South East Asia and South Africa, product planners feel it necessary to have a 7-seater offering – that is not an Ubermobile station wagon.

The N7X is expected to be powered by Honda’s ubiquitous 1.5-litre turbopetrol engine, driving the front-wheels via a CVT transmission.

Loyal followers of the Japanese brand will be heartened by a new, fresher, product – but also wonder: where does this fit into Honda’s line-up?

The troubling issue is that N7X might not be a supplementary product, but instead, a replacement. Expect this new 7-seater vehicle to replace the BR-V, which has been a sales disappointment for Honda.

CR-V or N7X? That could become an interesting question, for Honda buyers, in future.

We will keep you updated as soon as the production and distribution details of the Honda N7X become available.

For now, though, you will have to buy a Honda BR-V on Cars.co.za.

Nissan Navara (2021) Prototype Drive

We headed to Nissan South Africa's factory at Rosslyn to drive a pre-production version of the revised Navara double-cab. Competition is fierce in the local bakkie market – arguably more so than ever before… Has the slew of updates made the locally-assembled Navara a stronger contender than the pre-facelift version?

When you ask an average consumer about which bakkies are currently on sale in South Africa, the usual suspects are the Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger, Isuzu D-Max, Volkswagen Amarok and, to a lesser extent, the Mazda BT-50, Mitsubishi Triton and GWM P-Series. A name that doesn't get that many mentions is the Nissan Navara – and the SA subsidiary of the Japanese brand wants to change that.

Want to see specs & prices before you read the driving impression? if so, click here

With a steady stream of constant and regular updates, the motoring media landscape's bakkie content is dominated by the likes of the Hilux, Ranger, Amarok and most recently, the new P-Series.

Although the anticipated reveal of the all-new Ranger (and perhaps a look at the next Volkswagen Amarok), as well as the local introduction of the latest Isuzu D-Max are scheduled for next year (2022), 2021 will be far from uneventful for the South African bakkie market. Late last year saw the introductions of the updated Hilux and all-new P-Series; since then, there has been a slew of special-edition Ford Rangers, but the biggest news of the year, double-cab-wise, is the imminent arrival of the new-D-Max-based Mazda BT-50 and a revised version of Nissan's perennially-underrated Navara.

New vs old: Despite the camo, you can see the redesigned tail lamps.

Nissan became a mainstay of the South African bakkie market with models such as the Champ, Hardbody and Navara and the Japanese brand is determined to regain lost ground. Its campaign to change public perception (and grow sales) of the Navara began in April 2019, when Nissan announced a R3-billion investment in its Rosslyn facilities. Production was scheduled to start in 2020, but then Covid-19 struck. The investment will create 1 200 new jobs at the Nissan plant as well as in the local supply chain, and it's estimated the Navara will add around 30 000 units to the facility's annual production volume.

Previously the Nissan Navara was imported from Thailand, but now the Japanese brand's bakkie will be assembled locally, or as the brand puts it: "built in Africa for Africa." The benefits of local production are immense, with mainly cost implications being in South Africa's favour. The SA-built Navaras will also be exported to the rest of the continent.

We spent a day with the 2021 Nissan Navara prototype as well as the current model for a back-to-back comparison, under the guidance of Nissan SA's Wilhelm Baard. Some of you may know him as the pilot behind the 'wheel of some crazily-tuned high-performance Nissan GTRs that raced up the hill at the Simola Hillclimb in Knysna. If there's a guy who knows and loves Nissans, it's him.

2021 Nissan Navara: What has changed?

The real test: SA dirt roads.

The changes incorporated in the 2021 Navara stretch far beyond a mere visual overhaul. Much has been said about the Japanese bakkie's rear suspension (especially its 5-link rear setup) and the brand has worked tirelessly to enhance the bakkie's underpinnings, right down to the details. Updated bushes have been fitted and the dampers have been retuned, while dual-rate springs have been installed at the rear in an effort to maximise ride comfort without compromising load-carrying ability. The chassis, meanwhile, features new mountings for reduced vibration and the ride height has been increased.

What's more, there's been a focus on reducing noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) in the bakkie's cabin. Substantial investment has been devoted to implementing these improvements, including thicker windscreen glass! The steering setup has been tweaked too: Nissan SA has quickened the 'wheel's turning ratio, which has improved responsiveness and made parking manoeuvres easier to execute.

There's a new engine too, although it's less sophisticated than before. The current-gen Navara uses a 2.3-litre twin-turbo diesel engine that produces 140 kW and 450 Nm of torque. However, the new Navara features a 2.5-litre single-turbo diesel engine that produces 120 kW/403 Nm and the reason for the change is better durability, -parts availability and -compatibility with African export markets.

Nissan also increased the payload rating, with the Navara said to have the best-in-class capacity of 1.2 tonnes; the payload has gone up by 100 kg thanks to an increase in the height of the load box.

The Navara cabin has improved with more refinement and comfort.

What is the 2021 Nissan Navara like to drive?

The benefit of driving an outgoing model and its replacement back-to-back on the same stretch of road is that the exercise highlights the upgrades and enhancements incorporated in the latter product. We had the opportunity to drive both old and new Navara models on a variety of surfaces (and at different speeds) to get a sense of what's been refined and improved upon. A quick sojourn through a suburb showcased the faster steering setup, which definitely felt a touch sharper and more responsive, particularly at lower speeds, while the newer bakkie dealt with speed bumps with greater ease/pliancy.

Speaking of speed bumps, just to clarify, the revised Navara's suspension setup is just as up to the task of soaking up impacts with so-called "sleeping policemen" as well as before, but what's really eye-opening was just how quickly the newcomer's damping returned to neutral. We did the same route in the outgoing vehicle and noted that the pitching motion was more notable and lasted longer.

We also drove on a seriously poor-quality road that had potholes, ruts and cracked edges. Usually, we'd be hesitant to traverse such a road at the suggested speed, but the suspension felt like it was more than capable of handling it all. It's impressive stuff, but given how the majority of bakkies have transitioned from workhorses to lifestyle vehicles (without compromising on payload capacity), the test wouldn't have been complete without driving a stint on a highway…

Not only was the bakkie's in-cabin refinement under scrutiny when we travelled on the open road – we also had a chance to open the taps of the 2.5-litre single-turbo engine. At the national highway speed limit, the updated and locally-assembled Navara's cabin was notably hushed, with good levels of insulation from road and wind noise. At the time of driving the new bakkie, we weren't aware of the 2.5-litre engine's outputs. We expected similar performance to that of the outgoing model's 2.3-litre twin-turbocharged motor and, suffice to say, we could not feel a significant difference between the engines.

Overall, there is now more of a "premium-ness" about the Navara's ride quality, while its interior is more comfortable, feels a touch more upmarket and offers substantially enhanced refinement. With pricing that's not radically different to the imported model, we suspect there's a market dustup on the horizon as Nissan South Africa seeks to pinch a few sales from the Toyota Hilux and outgoing Ford Ranger.

Summary

It may have been a prototype, but consider our interest piqued.

Our first taste of the South African-built Nissan Navara was all too brief, but we had sufficient exposure to the newcomer to appreciate the extent of the updates, both inside and out. The key design elements of the bakkie's facelift were masked on the pre-production unit, but if you're reading this, you've probably already seen what the SA-spec Nissan Navaras look like.

The real changes have occurred under the sheet metal, however; Nissan South Africa has evidently made a concerted effort to engineer some luxury and comfort into what is, after all, a ladder-frame bakkie. The newcomer feels remarkably upmarket – you could easily be fooled into thinking you're behind the 'wheel of something far more premium… and not (just) a bakkie.

We look forward to spending more time with the locally assembled Nissan Navara during its upcoming local launch; rest assured we're planning another big bakkie shootout featuring all the major players.

New Nissan Navara (2021) Price in SA

Nissan South Africa has released pricing of its eagerly-anticipated Navara bakkie which is now built in South Africa.

Nissan South Africa says the order books are open for the locally-produced Navara, with the first customer units scheduled to come off the production line at the brand's Rosslyn facility in June 2021. Local Navara production has been a long time coming and after 2019's R3-billion investment announcement, Nissan bakkie fans can finally smile.

“With the introduction of the all-new Navara pickup in South Africa, we are confident that the significant technical changes implemented across our extensive line-up, will deliver the ultimate customer experience, with enhanced ride comfort, load carrying capacity, and a powertrain selected specifically for the South African market,” says Haasbroek.

"It’s an amazing achievement to see the full set of exciting models for the next generation Navara which offer customers a choice of both single, and double-cab, 2WD and 4WD options, and a choice of automatic and manual transmissions too,” Haasbroek said. “This is a fiercely competitive segment, and we are determined to meet and exceed customer needs,” he added.

The locally-assembled Nissan Navara really looks fresh and modern

What's On Offer?

The new Navara aims to please buyers looking for a capable workhorse as well as those looking for a leisure double-cab bakkie. With derivatives ranging from single-cab 4×2 to double-cab 4×4, Nissan is trying to cover all of its bases. There's one engine across the range in two states of tune. The 2.5-litre turbocharged diesel 4-cylinder motor offers up 120 kW and 403 Nm, mated to a choice of either a manual or an automatic gearbox. It's also available with 140 kW and 450 Nm, and is available with a 7-speed automatic. This engine replaces the 2.3-litre twin-turbocharged motor in the previous model. An entry-level petrol engine is also available and that delivers 118 kW and 233 Nm.

Nissan has thoroughly reworked its underpinnings in the name of driver comfort. There's a new chassis, with revised mountings, increased rear height, improved shock absorber damping and a new dual-rate 5-link coil suspension, which all combine to make for a smoother and more comfortable drive.

Physically, the model features a larger payload which has grown by 100 kg thanks to an increase in the height of the load box. For the SE Plus and LE grades, there's an added step on the rear bumper, while the DC derivatives get an easy-life tailgate and a torsion bar.

If you tow things, Nissan has added Trailer Sway Control (TSC) system, with yaw-rate-monitoring can detect the trailer’s self-oscillation, while the Vehicle Dynamic Control system (VDC) enables it to handle the brake pressure of the trailer to reduce self-oscillation.

The new Nissan Navara will also be offered in a single-cab derivative.

How much does the Nissan Navara cost in South Africa?

The below prices include VAT and the locally-built Navara is sold with a 6-year/90 000 km service plan and a 6-year/150 000 km warranty.

Nissan Navara Single-Cab Lineup

Nissan Navara 2.5 Petrol XE 4X2 MT SC R311 000

Nissan Navara 2.5D XE 4X2 MT SC R350 000

Nissan Navara 2.5D SE 4X2 MT SC R426 000

Nissan Navara 2.5D LE 4X2 MT SC R456 000

Nissan Navara 2.5D 4X4 SE MT SC R492 000

Nissan Navara 2.5D 4X4 LE MT SC R527 000

Nissan Navara Double-Cab Lineup

Nissan Navara 2.5D SE 4X2 MT DC R474 000

Nissan Navara 2.5D SE 4X2 AT DC R498 000

Nissan Navara 2.5D SE Plus 4X2 MT DC R505 000

Nissan Navara 2.5D SE Plus 4X2 AT DC R528 000

Nissan Navara 2.5D LE 4X2 AT DC R606 000

Nissan Navara 2.5D PRO-2X 4X2 AT DC R686 000

Nissan Navara 2.5D SE 4X4 MT DC R552 000

Nissan Navara 2.5D SE Plus 4X4 MT DC R580 000

Nissan Navara 2.5D LE 4X4 MT DC R660 000

Nissan Navara 2.5D LE 4X4 AT DC R677 000

Nissan Navara 2.5D PRO-4X 4X4 AT DC R740 000

The Express is Renault’s new bakkie

A value single-cab for workers.

Renault has expanded its single-cab bakkie offering, with the Express.

Although most bakkie fans will only be familiar with the Renault Alaskan or Oroch double-cabs, the brand has realised that bakkies are only becoming more popular, in all markets.

Renault’s response is to deliver a broader portfolio of bakkie solutions. And that brings us to the new Express.

This is a compact light-duty single-cab bakkie, based on the Renault Kangoo van. It uses a unibody design and customers will have the same powertrain options, available on Kangoo.

Renault’s venerable 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine is the powertrain of choice, but the latest Kangoo range also offers a 1.2-litre turbopetrol.

If you opt for the 1.2, power peaks at 84 kW, supported by 190 Nm of torque, whilst the 1.5-litre turbodiesel boosts 81 kW and 240 Nm.

Converting the Kangoo into an Express is the work of Foraccia, an Italian coachbuilding specialist. Fabricators and technicians at Foraccia remove the roof and additional cargo doors, to create a loadbox 1.79m in length.

Renault claims that its Express single-cab will carry 675 kg. Its tailgate can also support 300 kg of mass, if you like the idea of sitting on it to watch the sunset, with some rugby front-row mates.

The Express features extensive cladding around the aft cabin section and loadbox surround, to shield bodywork from cargo damage, and deliver adequate tie-down points and loops, for strapping.

With the dominance of Nissan’s NP200 and strained relations between Renault and Nissan on a corporate level, it is unlikely that the Express bakkie will be offered in South Africa.

New Car Sales in South Africa for April 2021

Due to the hard Covid-19 lockdown experienced in 2020, April 2021’s new car sales may appear rosy, but the automotive industry remains under considerable pressure…

Naamsa, the Automotive Business Council, today released new car sales figures for the month of April 2021. However, due to the lockdown in April 2020, drawing conclusions based on year-on-year data is pointless as the automotive industry was near-as-dead with only 574 new vehicles sold during April 2020.

In an effort to make any meaningful sense of the numbers, April 2021’s performance has been benchmarked against March 2020 data. As such, it’s clear that the automotive industry is still in the doldrums and recovery to pre-Covid levels will take at least another 3 years…

New Car Sales in South Africa: April 2021

Aggregate new vehicle sales of 35 779 units down by 17.6% (-7 649 units) compared to March 2020.
New passenger car sales of 22 911 units down by 13.9% (-3 688 units) compared to March 2020.
New Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) sales down by 24.3% (-3 485 units) compared to March 2020.
Export sales of 26 522 down by 32.2% (-12 619 units) compared to March 2020.

Top 10 Car Brands in South Africa for April 2021

Toyota – 8 810 units
Volkswagen – 6 017 units
Hyundai – 2 632 units
Ford – 2 471 units
Suzuki – 2 244 units
Nissan 1 727 units
Isuzu – 1 638 units
Renault – 1 432 units
BMW – 1 199 units
Kia – 1 133 units

Sales Outlook

New car sales are expected to remain under pressure for the short to medium term but low interest rates, renewed activity in the rental market and easing of lockdown restrictions will continue to keep business and consumer sentiment on a positive keel. However, supply chain disruptions (such as the continued global semiconductor shortage), will continue to have a negative impact on certain new car availability for the foreseeable future. Eskom’s domestic energy challenges are also an ongoing risk, especially with typically high-demand winter months ahead.

Exports in the first 4 months of 2021 are as much as 48.3% higher than the corresponding months of 2020 and while this is positive, exports are at the mercy of the global economy which is still very much vulnerable to the Covid-19 pandemic, how it is managed, how effective the vaccine rollout is and how governments respond to the pandemic. In a nutshell, tough months lie ahead and uncertainty is still very much the order of the day…

Buy a used car on Cars.co.za

New Subaru Outback (2021) Specs & Price

Subaru Southern Africa has announced that the new 6th-generation Outback will reach South Africa in May 2021. See specification and pricing below…

Sadly, station wagons are not so popular in South Africa but Subaru's Outback has soldiered on regardless in a market that has turned its attention to crossovers and SUVs. The Outback, however, remains a practical choice and now South African buyers can look forward to the arrival of a new-generation Outback in May 2021. Subaru has also recently introduced the updated Forester locally, which we reviewed here.

It’s built on the Subaru Global Platform and while it has a familiar but more chiselled look, it not only retains its practicality but it now offers more advanced features. It’s stiffer and safer than ever before and Subaru says that the new Outback’s body absorbs up to 40% more energy in a front-side crash. 8 airbags are fitted as standard as is Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology which now offers advanced adaptive cruise control with Autonomous Corrective Steering and improved lane-keeping functionality. Subaru has also adopted various sound-deadening strategies to create a quieter cabin and improved comfort levels as a result.

The South African market will receive the Outback in 2 trim levels namely the Outback Field, which adopts a more rugged design, and the Outback Touring which features more urban-inspired trim elements.

Subaru Outback Engine range

The new Outback adopts a sharper look and remains as practical as ever.

In terms of engines, the new Subaru Outback is powered by a revised naturally-aspirated 2.5-litre engine offering 136 kW and 239 Nm of torque, which is slightly more powerful than the outgoing unit (129 kW/235 Nm). This uprated 2.5-litre Boxer engine will be offered in South Africa and all Outbacks are mated with a CVT which features an 8-speed manual mode and steering-mounted paddle shifters. Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is standard.

The Outback is also fitted with an all-new suspension system which is said to be lighter and more responsive. MacPherson struts with a new internal rebound spring, aluminium L-arms and 23 mm hollow stabiliser bar is found up front while a double-wishbone setup with a subframe, coil springs, and 19 mm stabiliser bar is fitted to the rear.

Subaru Outback Interior Features

A large infotainment touchscreen and a host of comfort and convenience features are offered on the new Outback.

The new Outback features an 11.6-inch tablet-style StarLink infotainment system and central information display for the driver. The infotainment system is Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatible and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system is also on offer.

Added comfort is provided by 10-way electric front seats with heating and cooling functions and while rear passenger space has increased, the Outback can also be equipped with up to 4 USB ports and 2 12 V DC power sockets. As you would expect, luggage space remains generous and the tailgate now opens automatically by waving in front of the Subaru badge on the centre of the tailgate while a new single-touch lifting cargo cover is also a new feature.

In addition to Subaru's praised EyeSight safety suite, the new Outback will also introduce a Distraction Mitigation System called DriverFocus which will be rolled out into the rest of the Subaru vehicle range in due course. The camera utilises cameras and facial recognition to monitor fatigue and distraction and presents a warning to the driver when a lack of driver focus is detected. The system also allows for up to 5 individual driver settings to be programmed and stored in the vehicle.

As always, the Subaru Outback is going to be capable when the going gets tough. There's 213 mm of ground clearance, 19.7 degree approach angle and 22.6 degree departure angle as well as Subaru's X-Mode and Hill Descent Control. X Mode is a driver-selectable programme for use in less than perfect terrain such as slippery or uneven surfaces, i.e. snow, mud, grass, ruts, rocks etc. The system has 2 settings that can be used depending on the severity of the surface, but each of these will optimise the vehicle to overcome the situation by sending power to the wheels with the best traction.

Subaru Outback Safety Features

Subaru South Africa has imbued its Outback with a raft of safety systems, both passive and active. Starting with the platform, the new Subaru Global Platform features an inner collapsible body structure that's 70% more rigid than before and achieves 100% more energy absorbtion in a crash. The Subaru Outback is fitted with ABS, EBD, ESC, Hill Hold as well as Active Torque Vectoring. There are 8 airbags fitted and the vehicle comes with the latest version of Subaru's Eyesight which is the collective name for the Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic Pre-Collision Braking, Lane Departure, Sway Warning, Lane Keep Assist and Lead Vehicle Start Alert.

These systems have been enhanced for this new model. There's also Blind Spot Monitor (BSM); Lane Change Assist (LCA); Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA); Reverse Automatic Braking (RAB) and EyeSight Assist Monitor.

How much does the new Subaru Outback Cost in South Africa?

Subaru Outback 2.5i-Field ES R699 000

Subaru Outback 2.5i-Touring ES R729 000

The Subaru Outback is sold with a 3-year/75 000km maintenance plan as well as a 5-year/150 000km warranty.

Buy a new or used Subaru Outback on Cars.co.za

Petrol Price May 2021 Relief for Motorists

There's some relief for motorists as the petrol and diesel prices are expected to drop for the month of May 2021.

It has been a tough few months for motorists after back-to-back increases have hurt budgets and disposable incomes. Thankfully there's a small light at the end of this painful tunnel as some reductions are forecast for May 2021.

According to the Automobile Association (AA) who publish industry comment regarding the unaudited month-end fuel price data released by the Central Energy Fund, the price of petrol is expected to be cheaper by around 13 cents a litre, with diesel showing a potential 32 cents a litre drop. Illuminating paraffin will decrease by 23 cents.

“The exchange rate has continued its pleasing strengthening trend against the US dollar. International petroleum prices, which increased slightly in the first two weeks of April, have held steady since,” the AA says.

“As we head into winter, South Africans who use paraffin for lighting, cooking, and heating especially will no doubt be glad at this news. For its part, the AA is hopeful the recent streak of price stability will continue to provide more price relief to fuel users in the short to medium term,” the Association concludes.

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