End of cheap Fords for SA?

With Ford ending its vehicle production in India, what does that mean for local customers of the Blue Oval’s budget cars and compact family cars?

For Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa (FMCSA), the Figo and the EcoSport are linchpins of its passenger-car lineup. Although the 2nd generation of the (admittedly slightly larger) Figo has not quite fared as well as its plucky predecessor, the EcoSport helped to create the small crossover segment when it arrived locally in 2013 and has held a significant presence in the new-vehicle market ever since.

When FMCSA’s family car/compact SUV sales collapsed in the wake of the company’s well-reported Kuga issues (the Silverton-based firm opted not to introduce the successor to the Kuga in the local market), robust demand for the EcoSport offset some of the sales that Ford lost. However, things might have become a touch complicated for the popular Ford “budget gravel traveller”…


Two generations of the Ford Figo has served South African budget-car buyers.

Ford has announced that it no longer plans to have a manufacturing presence in India, which is where South Africa’s Figo and some EcoSport derivatives are imported from. In a shock announcement, the Blue Oval has confirmed that its Indian production assets in Chennai (EcoSport) and Sanand (Figo) would be closed after suffering the equivalent of R28 billion in losses during the past decade.

India was hailed as a robust future demand- and production market by many automotive companies… Ford is certainly not the only company to have invested huge amounts of capital there and the EcoSport was one of its biggest automotive exports. But somehow, the numbers that triggered that original business case never materialised.

The question is, what will happen to FMCSA’s EcoSport and Figo supply and parts stability in light of the Indian plant closure? Both vehicles have been sourced from India for many years, which was by far the world’s biggest growth market for right-hand drive vehicles in the last few years.


Cars.co.za’s David Taylor recently reviewed the recently introduced Ford EcoSport Black.

Sourcing right-hand drive product globally is not easy. It is something that South African product planners are often hampered by and India provided the scale in its domestic market, with the added benefit of production capacity to also supply right-hand-drive markets like South Africa.

So, what will happen now? Ford has not said much beyond confirming the disengagement from its Indian auto assembly business. The direct impact won’t be immediately felt in South Africa, as production at Ford’s Indian assembly facilities will be tapered off; it won’t cease overnight.

Where will FMSCA source its future EcoSport and Figo units from beyond the second quarter of 2022? That is an interesting question…


Cars.co.za published a review of the Ford Figo Freestyle last year.

There are several global production options for the EcoSport, which was conceived to be a “truly global crossover”; Ford invested in many production locations, including one in Romania, which supplies the 1.0-litre 3-cylinder EcoBoost derivatives to our market. This factory, which also supplies right-hand drive EcoSports for the UK market, could become the exclusive source for FMCSA.

What might be challenging, is the landed cost of EcoSport units procured from the EU. European labour rates, even those in Romania, are higher than in India. And the Euro-specification EcoSport is a comprehensively equipped version, unlike the lower content (read: budget market-oriented) units that are built in India, which may cause the entry price point of the model to become more expensive.

The Figo is a bigger problem. It has only one global production hub, which is the Ford facility in Sanand, India – yes, the one that is being decommissioned.

As FMCSA’s most affordable car, the Figo is an important contact point for the brand with local customers; its target market includes buyers who are either thinking of purchasing their first new car – or buying down. Where the Figo will be built after the Sanand factory is closed (unless, of course, Ford decides to discontinue the model) remains to be seen, however.

Related content:

The car chip crisis: How do we deal with the semiconductor shortage?

Toyota Corolla Cross GR Sport Announced

With Toyota South Africa preparing for the launch of the SA-built Corolla Cross, internationally a Corolla Cross GR Sport was announced.

The Toyota Corolla Cross will be arriving in local showrooms towards the end of the year, fresh off the production line at Toyota SA’s plant in Durban. With petrol and hybrid options available, it looks like customers will be spoilt for choice when it comes to SUVs around the R350k mark.

The Corolla Cross will be slotted between the Toyota C-HR, Urban Cruiser and the Toyota RAV4, giving customers more choice than ever when it comes to a family SUV.

Toyota Corolla Cross SA Prices and Specs Confirmed

As comprehensive as the SA range is, it’s lacking a sporty touch. Enter the GR Sport, which has just been announced by Toyota Asia. Like all GR Sport models in Toyota’s portfolio, this isn’t a performance version, but rather a mostly cosmetic upgrade.

With subtle GR Sport badging inside and out, as well as a new-look front bumper with unique intakes and foglight recesses, the Corolla Cross GR Sport looks bold and interesting. There are also unique headlights and taillights as well as interior upgrades.

Inside, the Corolla Cross GR Sport theme extends to the interior panels and seats, with a black theme throughout. There’s a GR Sport logo on the start button as well as the seats. It is not just about the looks and Toyota says its Corolla Cross GR Sport also gets an adjusted suspension with thicker shock absorbers and stabilizers. The steering setup is also said to be reconfigured, presumably to give it a bit more feel and engagement.

The engine is left untouched and for the record, the Corolla Cross is powered by a 1.8-litre naturally-aspirated petrol engine delivering 103 kW and 173 Nm. The hybrid model has a 1.8-litre petrol engine paired to an electric motor giving it a total output of 90 kW.

Toyota South Africa confirmed the GR Sport will be available in SA, but at a later stage. Expect it in 2022.

Corolla Cross GR Sport

Further Reading

Toyota Corolla Cross Specs and Pricing Confirmed for SA

Toyota Urban Cruiser (2021) Review

Mini Cooper (2021) Specs & Pricing

The facelifted Mini Cooper will be launching in SA in September 2021. Here’s what’s on offer, plus how much it will cost.

With an all-new model due in 2023 and the constant advances in connectivity and tech, Mini has given its hatch and convertible range a facelift, both inside and out.

These changes are applied to the One hatch, Cooper hatch, Cooper S hatch, Cooper Convertible, JCW and the electrified Cooper SE. Customers will have the choice of 3-door or 5-door vehicles, excluding the Convertible.

Mini Cooper Exterior Changes

This is not just a visual exterior change with some new bumpers and wheels as there’s been extensive work done to the Mini Cooper interior too. There’s a new digital dashboard, identical to that found in the bigger Countryman, an all-new infotainment system, redesigned steering wheel and some trim and ergonomic updates.

Engine lineup

It appears the engine and gearbox options for the updated Mini Cooper range have been carried over. Kicking off the range is the Mini One, with a 1.5-litre turbocharged 3-cylinder producing 75 kW and 190 Nm. Power goes to the front wheels via a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission and Mini says it’ll hit 100 kph in a claimed 10.3 seconds. Fuel economy is claimed at 5.6 L/100 km.

For the Cooper model, the same 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine is used, but has been tuned to deliver 100 kW and 220 Nm, giving it a brisk 0-100 kph of 8.1 seconds and economy figures of 5.6 L/100 km.

The Mini Cooper S really ups the ante with a 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine delivering 141 kW and 280 Nm and it’ll be fun, with a claimed 0-100 kph in just 6.7 seconds. The JCW performance version is also on offer, and that punches out a ballistic 170 kW and 320 Nm, making it the quickest production Mini Cooper on offer.

There’s also the fully electric Mini Cooper SE, which has 135 kW and 270 Nm, with a range of 217 km and a claimed 0-100 kph of just 7.3 seconds.

We will confirm SA specifications when the vehicle goes on sale.

Mini Cooper (2021) Price in South Africa

The updated Cooper is sold with a 2 year/unlimited-kilometre warranty and a 3-year/75 000 km service plan.

One Hatch 3-door R 424 554

One Hatch 5-door R434 968

Cooper Hatch 3-door R489 654

Cooper Hatch 5-door R500 068

Cooper S Hatch 3-door R564 058

Cooper S Hatch 5-door R574 058

John Cooper Works Hatch 3-door R668 124

Cooper SE Hatch 3-door R686 400

Further Reading

Mini Anniversary Edition announced

Mini Cooper range refreshed for 2021

Fastest Double-Cab Bakkies in South Africa (2021) 

We recently staged our biggest bakkie drag race on a dried-up lakebed in the Northern Cape. Yes, some of the results were fairly predictable but there were some surprises too. If you are interested in knowing what the fastest double-cab bakkies in the land are, then this video will give you some answers!

Double-cab bakkies, or utes as the Aussies say, aren’t your typical vehicles to line up for a drag race. 

We happened to find ourselves out in the middle of nowhere in the heart of South Africa’s Northern Cape province on a dry lakebed with 6 of the latest double-cab bakkies on sale in South Africa. 

Note that products such as the Mahindra Pik Up, soon-to-be-replaced Isuzu D-Max and Mitsubishi Triton were missing from the party due to logistical challenges but you can use your imagination as to where they might have been placed in this company. 

Drag Race Contenders 

Nonetheless, the show must go on and contenders in this drag race showdown included the feature-laden GWM P-Series, the recently-facelifted Nissan Navara, all-new Mazda BT-50, the slick Ford Ranger Thunder, the venerable Toyota Hilux Legend RS and the mighty 190 kW Volkswagen Amarok V6. 

Here they are in order from most powerful to least powerful along with pricing as of September 2021.

1. 2021 Volkswagen Amarok 3.0 V6 – 190kW / 580Nm – R936 700

2. 2021 Ford Ranger Thunder 2.0 Bi-turbo – 157kW / 500Nm – R839 900

3. 2021 Toyota Hilux 2.8 GD-6 Legend RS – 150kW / 500Nm – R861 600

4. 2021 Mazda BT-50 3.0 TD – 140kW / 450Nm – R794 400

5. 2021 Nissan Navara 2.5DDTi LE – 140kW / 450Nm – R677 000

6. 2021 GWM P-Series 2.0TD LT – 120kW / 400Nm – R554 900

With its powerful V6 engine, the Amarok was destined to win this drag race challenge, but the real dog fight would take place further down the field.

See the results below…

Fastest Double-Cab Bakkie in South Africa (2021) 

Drag Race 1 

  1. Volkswagen Amarok V6
  2. Mazda BT-50 
  3. Ford Ranger Thunder
  4. Toyota Hilux Legend RS 
  5. GWM P-Series
  6. Nissan Navara

Drag Race 2 

  1. Volkswagen Amarok V6
  2.  Mazda BT-50 
  3. Toyota Hilux Legend RS
  4. Ford Ranger Thunder
  5. GWM P-Series
  6. Nissan Navara

Buy a car on Cars.co.za 

Related Content 

The New Ford Ranger: What to Expect

Spy Shots: 2023 Volkswagen Amarok

Best Double-Cab Bakkies for Off-road Driving

Spy Shots: 2022 Mercedes-AMG C63

With the local launch of the all-new Mercedes-Benz C-Class just a few months away, attention now turns to the flagship performance derivative. Here are the latest spy shots of the 2022 Mercedes-AMG C63.

Picture credit: S. Baldauf/SB-Medien. We have paid for these photos and at the photographer’s request, have watermarked them.

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is one of the Stuttgart-based brand’s stalwart products. There’s a derivative for all needs, be it petrol, diesel and even plug-in hybrid. Most petrolheads will be interested in the AMG-tuned models and while the standard models have been revealed, we’re some way away from seeing the production 2022 Mercedes-AMG C63.

2022 Mercedes-Benz Specs and Pricing

The bad news, if you weren’t already aware, is that the mighty 4.0-litre biturbo V8 petrol engine has been replaced by a 4-cylinder hybrid unit. Essentially the 2.0-litre 4-cylinder motor from the A45 S will be bolstered by a big Mercedes-EQ electric power unit and while that unique and special sound will be gone, the rumoured performance numbers are staggering.

2022 Mercedes-AMG C63 Power

 How does 410 kW and 800 Nm sound to you? The C63 will feature Merc’s latest 4Matic variable all-wheel-drive system and using a 9-speed automatic transmission, acceleration from zero to 100 kph is expected to take just 3.5 seconds which is 0.5 seconds faster than the outgoing model. The top speed is pegged at 291 kph.

While those numbers are certainly impressive, the downside is that the hybrid system has added some 250 kg, taking the vehicles kerb weight to around 2-tonnes, even though the 4-cylinder engine is some 60 kg lighter than the outgoing V8 block. 

A 63 km electric-only range is also expected and fuel consumption is reportedly claimed at 3.0 L/100km which is a notable improvement from the previous 9.9 L/100km. The C63 will also feature wider rear tyres as well as a drift mode which will direct power to the rear wheels on command, much like the system offered on the larger Mercedes-AMG E63 S. 

The all-new 2022 Mercedes-AMG C63 is expected to be revealed before the end of 2021.

2022 Mercedes-AMG C63

Further Reading

 Mercedes-Benz C-Class international launch review

Mercedes-AMG hybrid to pack 1400 Nm

Power upgrade for Volvo XC60 and XC90

Electric power nearly doubles with new PHEVs from the Swedish carmaker.

Safety. Comfort. Sustainability. And some very tidy Swedish design. These are the core principles of Volvo, but the company is going to sneakily add a lot more performance, to its hybrid vehicles.

A technical upgrade has been introduced for the XC60 and XC90 plug-in hybrids (PHEVs). Engineers at Volvo have managed to increase the battery pack capacity, allowing for a more potent hybridization system.

The XC60 and XC90 PHEV vehicles now use an 18.8kWh lithium-ion battery pack, with a 63% increase in energy density over the 2021 model year’s 11.6kWh of power storage.

For those Volvo owners who want to stretch their electric-only driving range, the better battery boosts range from 48- to 68km for the XC90 PHEV T8 and from 52- to 76km in the smaller XC60 PHEV.

The more notable gains are powertrain performance. Both the upgraded XC60 and XC90 PHEVs benefit from a more potent electric motor, rated at 107kW. That increases total system output to 335kW and 709Nm – impressive numbers by any standard.

With Volvo’s powertrain integration team nearly doubling the XC60 and XC90 PHEV electric motor power (from 65- to 107kW), the traditional sprint statistics are impressive.

Volvo claims the updated XC90 PHEV T8, which is not a light vehicle by any margin, will run the benchmark 0-100kph sprint in only 5.4 seconds.

Even more impressive is the new XC60 PHEV. It might not be marketed as a performance SUV, but with a 0-100kph time of 4.9 seconds, it is one of the quickest vehicles Volvo has ever produced.

Volvo’s hybridization might be for environmental reasons, to make its vehicles lighter on fuel, but the net result has been a genuine increase in power and performance. Ironic? Maybe. But definitely worthwhile.

The more powerful Volvo hybrid drive systems are scheduled for customer introduction in early 2022. Given the rumour of SA’s government changing its tariff and import structure for hybrid and electrified vehicles, we might see these sexy Swedes in SA sooner than you think. 

Further Reading

Volvo Strategy for electrification

Volvo XC40 Pure Price in South Africa

All-new Subaru WRX unveiled


Now based on the brand’s global platform, the new, larger Subaru WRX is powered by a 2.4-litre 4-cylinder turbopetrol motor. However, seeing as the WRX badge no longer inspires shock and awe in the way it used to, is the newcomer too conservative, or merely a mild opening act for the upcoming WRX STI?    

It’s fair to say the cult following garnered by early versions of the WRC-inspired, all-wheel-drive WRX and its WRX STI has waned dramatically; forget for a minute about Subaru’s controversial decision to produce the 3rd-gen Impreza in hatchback guise only (although it did later produce a 4-door variant); like other smaller Japanese manufacturers, Subaru lost steam when the global financial crisis hit in the late Noughties and, since then, WRX variants have become increasingly pricey and are rivalled by all-wheel-driven hyper hatches such as the Mercedes-AMG A45 S, Ford Focus RS and VW Golf R.

The current WRX and WRX STI were officially divorced from the Impreza range and not only in name – they were based on the previous-gen Impreza (GP) platform, while the current iteration Impreza (which arrived in SA in 2017) was based on the brand’s global platform. In fact, all Subaru models in the local market, apart from the WRX and WRX STI (VA), are based on those underpinnings.

Improved dimensions & ridigity

The new WRX, however, is also based on Subaru’s Global Platform. The immediate benefit of the “full inner-frame construction” and “structural adhesive application” is an improvement in the sedan’s body rigidity. The newcomer is also wider and longer than its predecessor; the Japanese firm claims the model offers more shoulder room and credits a longer wheelbase for the improved rear legroom.

Ride comfort and on-road stability are said to have been improved by virtue of the WRX’s optimised suspension geometry (with a longer functional stroke compared with the previous model). What’s more, a dual-pinion electric power steering system, which has separate axes for the motor assist and the driver’s input, has been adopted to instil a “smooth and responsive sporty steering feel”, Subaru claims.

As was the case with the new Subaru BRZ, the WRX features a 2.4-litre direct-injection flat-4 petrol engine, but in this case, it’s turbocharged. The new motor produces 202 kW and 350 Nm, which represents a nominal improvement of 5 kW over the current model’s maximum outputs, but Subaru has not yet revealed at what rpm marks those figures are produced or how wide the peak-torque band is.

Optimised auto transmission

The WRX will be offered with a choice of a 6-speed manual gearbox or a Subaru Performance Transmission; although the latter’s not a particularly original name, it has a better ring to it than Lineartronic and we understand that the automatic drivetrain remains a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

The Subaru Performance Transmission doesn’t have any gears, but it’s programmed to offer 8 “steps” so the driver can use the steering wheel-mounted paddles (sports shift control) to actuate simulated manual shifts. These are said to be 30% faster on “upshifts”, and 50% quicker on “downshifts” and “even in Drive”, Subaru claims, the transmission “automatically changes ratios in response to the driver’s throttle inputs”.

For derivatives specified with Drive Mode Select – all of them, we hope – the WRX offers its driver additional options to configure steering feel, damper settings etc at the push of a button, the Variable Torque Distribution AWD system incorporates an “AWD Sport” mode that “further enhances cornering performance by controlling LSD torque” and features electronically controlled active dampers.

Purposeful, yet restrained, styling

In terms of its appearance, the WRX is adorned with the pre-requisite sporty addenda, such as a low front bumper, a bonnet scoop, flared fenders, titanium-coloured alloys, a rear diffuser (flanked by 2 pairs of exhaust tips) and a boot-lip spoiler. The influence of Subaru’s Viziv Performance concept car is most apparent at the rear, where the triangular tail-light clusters are linked by an (LED) light bar.

The newcomer appears to look its best with a bright, non-metallic paint finish, so that the numerous black trim embellishments (such as the winglets on the edges of the bumpers, the trio of air outlets on the front wheel-arch trims and the angular side sills, which feature hexagon-patterned aerodynamic textures) create an eye-catching contrast.

The interior design is predictably restrained and characterised by the Levorg-like fascia design, replete with a portrait-oriented touchscreen infotainment system, which is complemented by an upsized driver info display in the instrument cluster and a thick-rimmed multifunction sports steering wheel.

There are a few tasty sporty touches in the otherwise sombre black interior, however, including liberal applications of red contrast stitching, in combination with WRX-branded headrests. Speaking of the figure-hugging front sports seats, they were designed in conjunction with Recaro and can be trimmed in a combination of leather and black/grey suede.

Better EyeSight

Lastly, EyeSight is again standard on automatic versions of the WRX. The latest iteration of Subaru’s active safety system is equipped with a revised stereo camera with a wider viewing angle (in other words, the hardware has an expanded area of recognition).

In combination with the newly added electric brake booster (which improves the responsiveness of braking assist, Subaru says) the operational coverage of pre-collision braking has been beefed up to support the system’s collision-avoidance function at intersections.

Even though they may no longer achieve notable sales volumes for Subaru, the WRX and WRX STI are halo models (brand builders) for the Hiroshima-based brand, which is why Subaru Southern Africa has confirmed plans to introduce this new sedan on the local market in the middle of 2022. For hardcore enthusiasts, however, this is only an appetiser for next year’s reveal of the WRX STI, for which expectations are lofty!

Related content:

Subaru Planning New 294 kW WRX STI

Subaru WRX ES Premium (2018) Quick Review

2022 Subaru BRZ Unveiled

This week’s news you need to know (September 2021, Week 2)


In this week’s automotive news you need to know: How will Toyota position the GR Corolla to ensure its success? The VW ID.3 GTX will eventually turn Vrrr-pah into Vrrr-shh, the Ford Ranger of the week – yep, there’s another one – and how will you know a G-Class is heading towards you if you can’t hear it coming? 

Corolla GR – Where to from here?

GR Corolla render

With the Toyota GR Yaris hype train showing no signs of slowing down any time soon, grown men are still speaking in squeaky voices when they regale tales of seeing one of the Japanese brand’s rally-bred machines in public. I know, because I am one of those men. Given the hoopla that’s been created, anything succeeding the GR Yaris will be expected to be a giant-killer too. That means that a GR Corolla could be a match for the Mercedes-AMG A45 S, but no one in South Africa would ever buy one for the kind of money that can purchase a 2-bedroom Balwin Properties apartment in Joburg North.

> Read more: Toyota GR Corolla for 2022?

But let’s forget about the GR Yaris for the moment. It’s more likely that Toyota will produce a GR Corolla that is a lava-hot front-wheel-drive hatch to rival the Hyundai i30 N, Renault Megane RS Trophy and, if I dare say so, Volkswagen Golf 8 GTI. Toyota’s the one brand with enough cachet to poach buyers who have realised that the VW has become too refined, which is a more diplomatic adjective than boring.

VW ID.3 GTX – From Vrrr-pah! to Vrrr-shh!

VW ID.3 GTX

The news that Volkswagen will produce the ID.3 GTX – the performance-oriented version of the brand’s electric premium hatchback – has me all confuddled as to how VWSA will eventually (have to) bring GTI owners out of the trance they’ve been put in. I don’t envy VWSA, they’ve made their bed with the on-point Vrrr-pah! marketing campaign for the Golf 8 GTI and, well, ICE engines are responsible for producing those unmistakable pops. What will they use for ID.3 GTX… Vrrr-shh!? Dad jokes aside, it may be a little too much for the masses to accept; riots may break out when Vrrr-pah! is officially retired.

> Read more: Fast Volkswagen ID.3 GTX Hot Hatch for Production

Spare a thought for the after-market community as well. Tuners must be having nightmares about the post-ICE age; they will one day have to reposition their businesses’ core offerings if they can no longer slap on a Stage 2 map and de-cat to generate the kind of crackle that enhances street cred. We may need to go back to the original ICE (in-car entertainment)… kicker square 12-inch subs and all, cuzzie.

EQG – Achtung, baby!

Merc EQG

For those stay-at-home moms who have a predilection for illegally double parking their G-Wagons (while they flit between Pilates classes and those all-important micro-blading appointments) or that trust-fund sponsored start-up founder who’s late for the meeting with his VC (ahem, his dad) who uses about equal parts of street and pavement to moor his blocky AMG behemoth, I fear for the safety of all pedestrians when the Mercedes-Benz G-Class goes full electric. As a respectable citizen of an affluent suburb (relax, I flew in under the radar), where the G-Wagon per capita rate is about 1:5, I have come to rely on the characteristic growl of the Affalterbach division’s V8 to warn me that a G-Glass is approaching in my direction – it gives me just about enough time to quickly get out of the Benz’s path.

> Read more: Mercedes-Benz EQG is the future of Gelandewagen

Once the G-Glass is battery-powered, I’ll have to rely solely on tyre noise and blaring car phone conversations (in those heavy Sandton accents) to warn me. The G-Wagon – an off-roading legend that morphed into a fashion accessory/gratuitous expression of wealth – has always been a hit for Mercedes-Benz. You can be sure that Stuttgart’s finest will keep that premium status alive with the EQG.

Ford Ranger Brand Fatigue – Another Day, another Ranger

Ford Ranger Splash

I’ve lamented brands succumbing to derivative fatigue many times before. It’s like an endless obsession to bolster returns on investment; it makes the boardroom happy/ier and the customer base… well, tired. It’s becoming like those washed-out DJs from the 90s who try to stay relevant by having producers churn out extended remixes of old songs. Enough already. The moment to shine has passed.

> Read more: Ford Ranger Splash, Because Why Not?

But to play devil’s advocate… I must remind everyone, including myself, that an OEM is ultimately a business – not a charity. Sure, we always want something new and exciting, but that’s not always viable and these minor iteration changes are to be expected as manufacturers squeeze out as much profit as they can. Whether that translates into sales, well, the numbers never lie, so just skip to the next track.

Toyota Corolla Cross (2021) Specs & Price Announced

With local production of the Corolla Cross starting this month, Toyota SA has now released details of its new compact family car, which will slot in between the Urban Cruiser and RAV4. 

Earlier this year, it was announced that, following a R2-billion-plus investment in Toyota South Africa Motors’ (TSAM) assembly plant in KZN, the Corolla Cross would be produced at Prospecton, from where it would be sold in the local market (from November 2021, we believe) and exported to more than 43 countries in Africa. The newcomer utilises the new Corolla’s TNGA (GA-C) platform and is produced alongside the Corolla Quest.

> Read our launch drive of the Corolla Cross here

Until recently, Toyota has not offered much in the way of SUV-flavoured family cars below the popular Fortuner and RAV4. Whereas the 3-time #CarsAwards Brand of the Year winner only offered the boutique C-HR small crossover and, briefly, the Indonesian-made, ex-Daihatsu Rush budget crossover before (you can count the discontinued Etios Cross too, if you must), the Japanese brand will soon have a trio of offerings in the burgeoning compact family-car segment… The Suzuki-made Urban Cruiser budget crossover, the C-HR and, finally, the Corolla Cross.

Familial look

The Corolla Cross effectively fuses the design language of the Corolla Sedan and Hatch models with an SUV-shape. Large, elongated headlamps flank a prominent trapezoidal grille, which is accentuated by the broad, upswept lower bumper. Deep vertical design lines on the outer edges of the bumper help create a substantial frontal view. The side profile is characterised by pronounced fender flares, replete with black cladding, which ties in with the side skirts and bumper trim. The rear, meanwhile, employs large elliptical taillamps with trapezoidal detailing and crease lines. 

In terms of dimensions, the Corolla Cross is 35 mm shorter, but 185 mm taller than a Corolla sedan/hatch, although its mechanical configuration is slightly less advanced. An example of this is that the model utilises MacPherson struts for its front-, but a torsion beam – as opposed to a multi-link setup – for its rear suspension.

The newcomer will take on rivals such as the Volskwagen T-Cross, Hyundai Creta and the Kia Seltos and TSAM says buyers will be able to customise their vehicles with an assortment of exterior accessory packages, including “rugged, adventure-themed variants to sporty urban enhancements”.

By virtue of being based on the TNGA (GA-C) platform, the Corolla Cross is also expected to offer a comfortable ride quality and a quiet cabin by virtue of good noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) control. Toyota says the new model provides a spacious cabin, easy entry into and exit from the car, class-leading luggage space suitable for all scenarios, and safety equipment inherited from the Corolla series.

SA’s first hybrid compact family car

Base derivatives of the Corolla Cross will be powered by a 1.8-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine, which also propels Corolla Quest and the Corolla 1.8 XS sedan. The motor is mated with a 7-step continuously variable automatic transmission and produces peak outputs of 103 kW at 6 000 rpm and 173 Nm at 4 400 rpm. Toyota claims an average fuel consumption figure of 6.8 L/100 km for the non-hybrid derivative/s.

The petrol-electric hybrid version, meanwhile, will probably be the most affordable hybrid model in South Africa because it won’t be subject to the premium tax that is levied on imported hybrid models – well, at the moment.

Like the Toyota Prius (and upcoming Corolla Hybrid), the Hybrid will utilise a 72 kW/142 Nm Atkinson-cycle 1.8-litre petrol engine in combination with an electric motor and battery. The ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) has a high thermal efficiency figure of 40% (for a petrol engine) with the Japanese manufacturer has recently improved the motor’s gas flow, combustion, cooling, knock control and exhaust gas recirculation/heat recovery system, which means more fuel can be saved because the hybrid system can deactivate the ICE earlier… and more frequently.

Advancements to the electric system include a more compact package that is lighter in weight and lower in cost. The hybrid battery has a higher energy density, which means that even though its size was reduced by 10%, its power output remains the same. Toyota says it can absorb 28% more energy (either harvested via regenerative braking or generated by the petrol engine) in the same amount of time as the previous configuration did.

The electric motors themselves are smaller, but also have an improved power-to-weight ratio. The electric motor provides a supplementary 53 kW and 163 Nm of torque (at full capacity) to boost the overall system output to 90 kW (the combined figure is not an aggregate of the two power sources, due to transmission reduction losses).

A dedicated EV mode is also offered, where operation is restricted to near-silent, full-electric propulsion (battery state-of-charge dependant). The Hybrid configuration is optimised for low-speed usage situations such as peak-hour traffic, where the petrol engine is automatically shut off and the vehicle can be driven on electric power only – thereby using as little fuel as possible. EV operation is also utilised when reversing or when coasting on a level road.

The petrol-electric hybrid powertrain also employs a CVT. All of Toyota’s latest generation hybrids utilise a “starting reduction gear” to improve acceleration from standstill and provide a more direct-drive feeling when taking off.

In terms of fuel efficiency, the Corolla Cross Hybrid is said to consume an average of 4.3 L/100 km (in-town and high conditions) and has a CO2 index of under 100 g/km.  

Toyota Corolla Cross Trim Levels

Toyota South Africa is using its traditional trim level designation of Xi, Xs and Xr  for the new Corolla Cross. Xi kicks off the range with Toyota saying its aimed at customers seeking value motoring. Mid-tier Xs throws in additional convenience features and comfort, while Xr gives you the full package of larger wheels, comprehensive features as well as enhanced exterior look. 

Despite it being the entry-level derivative, the Xi features colour-coded bodywork, keyless entry, power-adjustable and auto-retractable exterior mirrors, LED taillamps and automatic light control. Interior Items include four cupholders, stowage binnacles, 60/40 fold-down rear seats and steering switches. Cruise Control, air-conditioning, 12-volt power outlet, all-round one-touch power windows and a Multi-Information Display (MID) round off the spec offering.

Xs trim enhances the package with foglamps, an upgrade to LED headlamps, Park Distance Control (PDC) and rain-sensing wipers. The interior trim is upgraded to leather, while the air-conditioning switches to a dual-zone variant and the Multi-Information Display (MID) is upgraded to the TFT-type. There’s also a reverse camera, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity as well as two more USB ports. 

Finally, the Corolla Cross Xr model adds in even more safety spec, plus 18-inch wheels and additional convenience features.

The top-of-the-range Xr models offer customers additional convenience and safety specification and an upgrade to 18-inch wheels.

How much will the Toyota Corolla Cross cost in SA?

Corolla Cross 1.8 Xi                     – R349 900

Corolla Cross 1.8 Xs                    – R390 100

Corolla Cross 1.8 Xr                    – R425 400

Corolla Cross 1.8 Hybrid Xs      – R413 000

Corolla Cross 1.8 Hybrid Xr       – R448 300

A six-services/90 000 km service plan is standard on all Corolla Cross models, with service intervals pegged at 12-months/15 000 km. A 3-year/100 000 km warranty also forms part of the offering. The Hybrid model carries an 8-year warranty on the Hybrid battery. Customers can also purchase additional service and warranty plan extensions from their nearest Toyota dealer (220 outlets nationwide).

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Hyundai Creta (2021) Review

Toyota Urban Cruiser (2021)

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BMW 2 Series M Performance Parts Announced

The sharply-styled BMW 2 Series M Performance Parts catalogue has been confirmed, giving us a good look at what’s possible in terms of cosmetic and performance enhancement.

After some polarising design decisions in the form of the 4 Series and 2 Gran Coupe, the new 2 Series is a sweet return to form for BMW. This is pretty much what the Bavarian brand does best; handsome two-door muscular coupes.

In profile, the newcomer has traditional coupe proportions, with a long bonnet and stubby tail section fore and aft of the cab. There are a few fresh details, however, such as triangular elements in the bumpers, flush-fitting door handles, a subtle integrated spoiler on the boot lid, as well as 3D-effect LED tail-light clusters.

As opposed to its 1 Series hatchback and 2 Series Gran Coupe siblings, the 2 Series Coupe is based on the Bavarian firm’s rear-wheel-drive CLAR platform (the newcomer is believed to be closely related to the Z4 roadster); it has 12% more torsional rigidity than its predecessor and a near-50:50 weight distribution.

As far as the engine lineup goes, we know there will be a 220i with 135 kW and 300 Nm, a 230i with 180 kW and 400 Nm, as well as a flagship M240i XDrive packing 285 kW and 500 Nm. Let’s not forget the inevitable M2 that will be revealed sometime in 2022.

The BMW 2 Series M Performance Parts takes things up a notch. As is tradition with every new BMW product, the M Performance parts catalogue is released, with parts and modifications ranging from tame to extreme. There’s an array of carbon fibre goodies on offer, with bumpers, mirrors, diffusers and grille surrounds.

The M Performance Parts catalogue for the BMW 2 Series also includes M-branded puddle lamps, brake upgrades, special edition alloy wheels as well as interior upgrades.

The headline upgrade has to be the suede/alcantara steering wheel, which is a work of beauty. Customers can also opt for M Performance bucket racing seats. There’s even a special key fob and you can get M-branded door locks.

The all-new BMW 2 Series will be launching in South Africa in the first quarter of 2022.

Further Reading

BMW 2 Series Fully Revealed

New BMW M2 to feature 365 kW?

New BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe Video Review