Spy shots of the soon-to-be-revealed BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe have emerged. Here's what you need to know about the 4-door coupe.
Picture credit: S. Baldauf/SB-Medien. We have paid for these photos and at the photographer's request, have watermarked them.
While many have suggested the pretty 4-door Gran Coupe is what the BMW 3 Series should have always been, it never sold in enough numbers to justify such a claim. Nevertheless, BMW thinks there's enough demand to satisfy the creation of a new 4 Series Gran Coupe and these spy shots show a near-ready prototype on European roads. It's immediate rival would be the Audi A5 Sportback.
We can see right away it adopts the 4 Series design cues, from the bold and controversial nose, to the neat tail lamps at the rear. Judging by the size of these exhausts, we reckon this is the M440i xDrive derivative. Powered by a 3.0-litre turbocharged 6-cylinder petrol engine developing 275 kW and 500 Nm, and it's good for a 4.5 second run to 100 kph. The current BMW 4 Series engine lineup for SA includes this motor, as well as a 4-cylinder 20i petrol and 20d diesel.
Given its shape and hatchback rear, expect the new 4 Series Gran Coupe to shade the 3 Series when it comes to rear boot space, at the expense of rear headroom. It will also adopt the 4 Series switchgear and cabin layout, in an effort to differentiate it from the 3 Series sedan.
Expect to see the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe revealed by the middle of 2021.
With those big exhausts, this is the BMW M440i xDrive Gran Coupe.
Ford is developing a new Indian-built C-segment SUV that will share its underpinnings with the new Mahindra XUV500. Could it be destined for South Africa?
Ford and Mahindra have been engaging in talks over a possible joint venture to co-develop at least 7 new models but it has now been reported that negotiations are off the table and that a JV is no longer on the cards. However, all is not lost and despite the failed talks, it appears that the 2 car manufacturers will still produce a new C-segment SUV which is known internally as ‘Project Black’.
Mahindra is due to launch its new XUV500 this year which will form the basis for Ford’s new SUV and it's expected to be revealed in the first quarter of 2022. The new SUV from Ford will rival the likes of the Kia Seltos, Hyundai Creta, Mazda CX-3, Honda HR-V, Nissan Qashqai and Suzuki Vitara, to name a few. Both models are expected to be produced at Mahindra’s Chakan facility in India.
Ford’s new SUV will reportedly be sold as a 6- or 7-seater and while it will share some componentry with the XUV500 (such as doors, windows and windscreens), both models will feature their own design identity in line with each brand’s design language. The interior execution will be different too, with Ford’s interior expected to be more upmarket in look and feel.
As for what will power the new Ford SUV, it’s likely to share the all-new 134 kW / 400 Nm 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine that’s expected to propel the new XUV500 as well as a 2.0-litre petrol engine with 142 kW and 380 Nm. A 6-speed manual transmission and a 6-speed automatic transmission is expected too.
Will it come to SA?
The Kuga namelplate is just about dead in SA, which means there's potential for a new family car product to join the range.
It appears that Ford’s new SUV will be a ‘Built for India’ model only but it’s not inconceivable to think that it could be introduced in South Africa at some point in the future. If you consider that the SA-spec EcoSport and Figo are sourced from the Indian subcontinent, then it could very well be a possibility as conditions are similar.
The Kuga family car was once the most popular offering in its segment and while the Kuga fire saga all but destroyed the Kuga nameplate locally (which may be why we are not getting the new Kuga), we could make an argument for Ford South Africa to strategically introduce a new family car model to fill the sales void that now exists between the smaller EcoSport and larger Everest adventure SUV. Do you think Ford should discontinue the Kuga nameplate in South Africa and introduce a new model to replace it?
It’s almost 2 years since the concept of the Alfa Romeo Tonale, the smaller sibling to the Stelvio executive SUV, debuted at the Geneva Show and, against the backdrop of the approved merger of FCA and PSA comes news that the newcomer is finally coming to market in November.
When Alfa Romeo was under the leadership of the late Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) chairman Sergio Marchionne, the group invested a reported $1 billion in the rear-wheel-drive Giorgio platform, which underpins the current Giulia and Stelvio, to spearhead yet another attempt to re-establish the Milanese brand in North America.
The Alfa Romeo Tonale concept caused a sensation when it debuted at the 2019 Geneva Show.
This move, which ultimately failed, spelt the end for the Mito and Guilietta, the latter of which was finally discontinued last year. However, FCA subsequently conceded that in order to safeguard the future of Alfa Romeo in a market dominated by crossovers, it had to produce at least 1, perhaps 2, SUV-inspired front-wheel-drive family cars, for which, of course, the Giorgio platform isn’t suitable.
So, the Italian marque showed its hand by unveiling the arrestingly styled Tonale concept at the Geneva Show in 2019, replete with sharp, futuristic styling. It was ostensibly based on FCA’s small, wide platform, which also underpins the Jeep Renegade and Compass and, when images of a supposed production version surfaced as early as October 2019, we believed its gestation would be brief.
However, the finalisation of the FCA-PSA merger (the shareholders yesterday voted in favour of the establishment of Stellantis) and, to an extent, the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic has delayed the arrival of the Tonale. In mid-2020, FCA reportedly sent a letter to its suppliers telling them to stop working on research, development, and tooling for future subcompact models, adding to the fuel to the rumour than PSA’s Common Modular Platform would be adapted to underpin those models instead.
Will that development affect the Tonale, though? Perhaps not… According to motor.es, a Tonale Launch Edition will go on sale in Europe in November this year and the rest of the range will apparently be launched, as well as in other markets, in early 2022.
Although the Tonale won’t be quite as outrageously styled as the concept – the “production unit” shown here has conventional side mirrors and headlamp clusters, although the tail-light units at least have an ornate lighting signature – it will certainly look notably more distinctive than the models it will rival, including the Audi Q3/Q3 Sportback, BMW X1/X2, Mercedes-Benz GLA and Volvo XC40 etc.
Engine options remain unconfirmed, but the 1.4-litre 4-cylinder turbopetrol that does service in the Renegade and Compass (producing 103 kW/230 Nm in the former and 125 kW/250 Nm in the latter), should be retained, although the naturally aspirated 2.4-litre 4-cylinder is probably a non-starter. However, the newcomer is likely to debut as a plug-in hybrid, powered by a turbocharged 1.3-litre petrol engine with an 11.4-kWh lithium-ion battery pack, with combined outputs of either 140 kW or 176 kW and an electric-only range of approximately 42 km in the WLTP cycle.
While the Alfa Romeo will probably be offered with a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, it’s not clear whether the Tonale will be offered with an all-wheel drivetrain. Also, most observers believe a Quadrifoglio variant is unlikely to come to fruition.
Is Brennero next?
Meanwhile, Motor1.com's Italian edition recently reported FCA would invest in its plant in Poland to build hybrid and electric models for Fiat, Jeep… and Alfa Romeo!
Starting in the 2nd half of 2022, the plant will produce the turbopetrol-, hybrid and EV versions of successors to the 500X and Renegade and the 3rd model is most likely to be the Alfa Romeo Brennero, which is the brand's forthcoming compact crossover that will slot in below the Tonale and effectively replace the Giulietta.
The introduction of the Volkswagen T-Roc compact family car rounds off the Wolfsburg-based brand’s range of crossovers and SUVs in Mzansi. Here are the 6 coolest aspects you need to know about the trendsetting T-Roc.
PARTNERED CONTENT
1. Fresh contender for a changing market
“Oh no, not another SUV”, some of you might you say, but although many segments of the new-vehicle market have steadily declined over the past 5 years, South Africa’s SUV market grew by 44% between 2015 and 2019. What’s more, there’s little to suggest the “SUV boom” will subside in the foreseeable future – international experts estimate global demand for compact SUVs will almost double over the next decade. That’s why, barely a year after introducing the T-Cross, Volkswagen South Africa has launched another attractive model into the compact crossover/SUV space.
The T-Roc sets a new benchmark in the compact crossover segment with its functionality, dynamic handling and technology. It slots in above the T-Cross and below the Tiguan in the Volkswagen SUV range, offers maximum personalisation, innovative digitalisation, perfect connectivity, class-leading driver assistance systems, dynamic engines and, above all, a modern and expressive design.
Incidentally, the launch of the T-Roc coincides with new naming for the trim lines under Volkswagen's "Y" structure line up. The Design line is aimed at customers looking for more styling elements, while the eye-catching R-Line is aimed at customers looking for sportier levels of specification.
2. Distinctive exterior design
Compared with the appearance of its fun-loving, but fundamentally sensible, T-Cross compact family car sibling, the stylish T-Roc positively exudes non-conformist appeal and its packaging (both inside and out) is packed with standout design details.
A wide radiator grille, flanked by integrated dual headlights, dominate the look of the front-end and the resulting repositioned lighting signature makes the T-Roc’s nose unmistakable, even at night. In profile, the newcomer’s elongated silhouette is emphasised by a striking chrome element that stretches from the A-pillars all the way to the C-pillars (across the entire roofline) – it’s clearly a deliberate coupe-like design cue!
To add a sense of purpose to the off-roader-inspired look, dark plastic trim, applied around the wheel arches and side sills, as well as the vehicle's front and rear, serves to protect the bodywork. The rear bumper styling, in turn, is aimed to frame the tailgate and give the T-Roc a sportier look.
And, remember what we said about trendsetting? The T-Roc is the first Volkswagen SUV that can be ordered with 2-tone paintwork – in other words, with a roof section (including the A-pillars and exterior mirror housings) that contrasts with the rest of the vehicle’s paintwork…
On the Design derivatives, customers have a choice of pure white, red and black on the roof and exterior mirror housings. These roof and exterior mirror housings can, in turn, be paired with various exterior colours, thus giving T-Roc customers 26 different colour options (with 21 on the R-Line).
3. Customisable interior
The T-Roc is based on Volkswagen’s modular transverse matrix (MQB), which means the newcomer offers a Golf-like level of ride comfort; it is 80-mm longer than the T-Cross compact family car and 162 mm shorter than the Tiguan family car. It offers a high driving position (but no shortage of headroom) and the cabin is eminently practical, with ample storage spaces in the centre cubby, door pockets, glovebox and under the front armrest.
The T-Roc’s claimed luggage capacity is 445 litres, but if you fold the 60.40-split rear backrest down, up to 1 290 litres of utility space is freed up. You can specify a load-through hatch for long loads or height-adjustable luggage compartment floor, the latter of which will avail with you a completely flat loading surface. The optional electric tailgate is easy to open from the driver’s seat or using the remote key fob.
Suffice to say the T-Roc’s interior reflects the sophisticated exterior design; it’s slick, modern and elegant, yet retains a robust SUV feel combined with Volkswagen’s characteristic build quality.
To further enhance the individual offering, the Design derivatives, which feature a Limestone Grey dashboard, fascia/centre console and door inserts, can be specified with 3 optional interior accent colours: Ceramique, Curcuma Yellow and Ravenna Blue. The standard comfort cloth seats (including lumbar-support adjustment) feature a Tracks 4 pattern, but if a buyer selects one of optional accent colours, that hue is duplicated in the pattern of the seat fabric.
The standard interior accent colour in the top-of-the-range R-Line derivative is Caribou Grey, which is complemented by luxurious Vienna Leather Quartz/Ceramique upholstery (which is optional on the Design derivatives). The R-Line has sports front seats with a heating function (as well as lumbar support) and the cabin features tasteful red, as opposed to the standard white, LED ambient interior lighting.
In terms of convenience features, the T-Roc comes with a 3-spoke leather-trimmed multifunction steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, voice control, electrically adjustable and heated side mirrors (they can also fold in the R-Line), high-beam assist, a rain sensor, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, height- and length-adjustable front armrest (with a storage box, 2 air vents, 2 cup holders and rear 12V socket), plus PDC all round.
What's more, there are a number of options with which to upgrade the Volkswagen’s interior, including – inter alia – the customisable digital instrument cluster (Active Info Display), a panoramic sunroof, the Beats by Dre audio system (which includes 6 speakers, a subwoofer and an 8-channel digital amplifier), keyless entry, a Park Package (parallel-parking assistant “Park Assist” with reverse-view camera) and an electrically-detachable, mechanically-swivelling tow hitch.
4. Innovative digital offering
To say connectivity is at the heart of the T-Roc in-car experience is a huge understatement! The T-Roc comes standard with the “Composition Media” infotainment system, which comprises an 8-inch colour touchscreen, a DAB digital radio receiver, Multi-device Interface (MDI) and USB connections (2 ports at the front and another pair – for charging devices – in the rear. In addition to availing Bluetooth telephony and audio streaming functionality, the system can play music from WMA and MP3 files, simultaneously pair with 2 compatible devices, and cast your smartphone onto the touchscreen via MirrorLink apps, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (all of which comes courtesy of App-Connect).
The optional 8-inch “Discover Media” Navigation infotainment system builds on the Composition Media setup by adding music management, navigation data and vehicle information. The system’s navigation data is displayed via 2D/3D map on the ‘screen, offering a choice of Fast, Short and Eco routes. Dynamic navigation is based on TMC+, branded points of interest and Speed Limit Display.
Buyers that upgrade to the “Discover Media” setup also benefit from Wireless App-Connect, which eliminates the need to connect your smartphone to the USB port to access the system. While a wireless charging pad is standard on the R-Line, it can be ordered for the Design derivatives.
Lastly, We Connect Go is a standard app-driven feature that conveniently pairs the T-Roc with a user’s smartphone via Bluetooth courtesy of the vehicle’s onboard DataPlug. The We Connect Go app functionality includes the following: vehicle data, access to the nearest or preferred Volkswagen dealers and the ability to automatically record and track trips (for tax logbooks, for example).
5. I.Q Drive technologies
In terms of standard features, all T-Roc derivatives have ABS, electronic stability control, dual front, -side and curtain airbags, a blind-spot monitor, fatigue detection, ISOfix attachment points (for mounting child seats on the rear bench), as well as a tyre-pressure monitoring system.
Furthermore, the newcomer also incorporates several IQ.Drive technologies, which support Volkswagen's journey to autonomous driving and assist the driver in terms of parking, driving and security. These features can be specified in groups via the optional IQ.Drive Small or Big Packs.
Adaptive cruise control (ACC with stop & go function) prevents you from exceeding a pre-set top speed and enables you to maintain a minimum distance to the vehicle in front. And in traffic jams, this means that your T-Roc can brake and pull off again completely automatically
Front Assist, which underpins the City Emergency Braking and Pedestrian Monitoring functions, uses sensors to detect situations where the distance to the vehicle ahead or a person in the road is critical and it helps to shorten the vehicle’s stopping distance. In a dangerous situation, the system alerts the driver by visual and audible signals and can even automatically apply braking in an emergency.
Autonomous Emergency Braking uses a number of technologies in the car to assist the driver when they are unable to, while Traffic Jam Assist utilises functions from the Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Assist to enable convenient and safe stop-and-go driving in heavy traffic situations.
Lane Assist, meanwhile, is activated via the multifunction steering wheel and operates from 65 kph. If the vehicle starts to depart from the lane, the Lane Assist function will warn the driver by means of an audible system, vibrating of the steering wheel or a corrective steering intervention.
Blind Spot Monitor Plus can warn you about changing lanes with a corrective steering intervention. This function works from speeds as low as 15 kph and is supplied in conjunction with the Rear Traffic Alert. Rear Traffic Alert is able to detect whether any vehicles start to approach when you are reversing out of a parking space. If you fail to respond to its warning, the system can prevent a collision by applying the brake.
6. Performance & Efficiency
The initial T-Roc product line-up consists of just 3 derivatives, but it nonetheless caters for professional commuters and driving enthusiasts alike.
The entry-level 1.4 TSI Design derivative, for example, is powered by a proven 1.4-litre turbopetrol motor mated with an 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. By virtue of its peak outputs of 110 kW and 250 Nm, this – the most affordable derivative – can accelerate from 0 to 100 kph in 8.4 sec, yet has an impressive claimed average consumption of just 6.9 L/100 km (aided by Start-Stop with brake-energy recuperation).
The 2.0 TSI Design and R-Line derivatives, by contrast, offers notably more spirited performance courtesy of the quick-shifting 7-speed dual-clutch DSG automatic transmission, which offers the option of driver-actuated gear shifts via the steering-wheel-mounted paddles on the R-Line, as well as the 4Motion all-wheel-drive system, replete Driving Profile Selection (including Eco, Sport, Comfort, Off-road) and Individual profile settings.
The top-of-the-range 2.0 TSI R-Line will appeal particularly to those who value an engaging driving experience… It features LED headlights and DRLs, dynamic cornering lights, 19-inch Suzuka alloy wheels (finished in dark graphite), along with body-coloured R-style bumpers, flared wheel arches, sill extensions and rear spoiler. Not only does it look the part – it’s equipped with a sports suspension. Volkswagen claims the 2.0-litre turbocharged TSI (140 kW/320 Nm) will zip from 0 to 100 kph in 7.2 sec, reach a top speed of 216 kph and consume an average of 8.3 L/100 km.
The T-Roc was designed to be noticed – is a seamless blend of style, comfort and convenience in one beautiful package that shows the world you’ve arrived. Every derivative comes standard with a 3-year/120 000 km warranty, 5-year/90 000 km Volkswagen Service Plan (which can be extended or upgraded to a maintenance plan), as well as a 12-year anti-corrosion warranty. Service intervals are 15 000 km.
There'll be a frustrating start to the new year for South African motorists who will face significant increases in both the cost of diesel and petrol.
The increases are scheduled to come into effect on the 6th January and the Automobile Association (AA) says petrol, diesel and paraffin will be going up in price.
After analysing the unaudited month-end fuel price data released by the Central Energy Fund, the AA had this to say, "The Rand has continued to advance against the US dollar, which is a pleasing outcome considering the severe beating the currency took earlier in the year. But even the currency's ongoing strength has not been enough to contain oil's march back towards its pre-COVID-19 price levels."
The AA does point out that the Rand's daily exchange rate dipped near R14.50 to the US dollar during December, with the average exchange rate hovering near R15, but the killer appears to be the near 13% increase in the price of international petroleum products. Petrol is due to increase by 40 and 43 cents per litre, for 95 and 93 respectively. Diesel customers can expect an increase of 55 cents per litre and 54 cents a litre for 0.05% and 0.005% respectively. Paraffin consumers will be hit with a 55 cents a litre increase.
The boss of BMW’s M Division, Markus Flasch, has offered Bimmer enthusiasts a sneak peek of the imminent M5 CS super sedan, which features a higher power output, a reduced kerb weight and a plethora of gold-bronze detailing. It's scheduled to make its official debut later this month.
We knew it was coming – Cars.co.za published spy images of the M5 CS in May last year, but in a brief walk-round video posted on BMW M’s Instagram account late last year, Flasch has partially lifted the cover off the hottest version of the facelifted M5…
He said the M5 CS (Clubsport) will produce 635 horsepower – most commentators believe the number he quoted was in German horsepower (PS), which gives the sedan an effective 626 bhp (or 467 kW) output. That’s marginally higher than the M5 Competition’s 460 kW, but moreover, the newcomer will be “70 kg lighter” than its sibling, which should trim its kerb weight to just over 1 800 kg (DIN).
Whereas the M Division’s 750-Nm 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8, which is mated with an 8-speed automatic transmission, propels the all-wheel-driven M5 Competition from 0 to 100 kph in 3.3 sec, the M5 CS may well complete the benchmark sprint in about 3 seconds!
BMW says the newcomer will consume between 11.3 and 11.1 L/100 km, but performance aficionados will be more interested to know that if the M Drivers Package is offered as standard (it's optional on the M5 Competition), the M5 CS won’t be limited to 250 kph, but surge past 300 kph.
Flasch presented the M5 CS clad in a matte black paint finish and although the German executive didn’t reveal the car in full, he highlighted the sedan’s brushed gold-bronze trims grille surround, side strakes and forged alloy wheels. Stopping power is provided by “exclusive” carbon-ceramic discs, clamped by red-finished callipers.
The biggest surprise is perhaps the motorsport-inspired yellow lighting signature of the M5 CS’ headlights; although Flasch did not reveal any interior details he said: “This car is a true four-seater so you can expect something in the rear.”
We, therefore, expect that apart from the provision of carbon-fibre front sports seats (as offered on the new M3 and M4), it’s likely the M5 CS will have a pair of matching scalloped bucket seats at the back instead of the 5 Series’ traditional bench (BMW anoraks will recognise that early versions of the 2nd-generation M5 were also 2+2s).
Flasch said the M5 CS would be fully revealed soon: “in January 2021”. It will be the fourth CS derivative recently produced by the Munich-based firm after the M2 CS, which arrived in South Africa late last year, and the CS variants of the superseded F80 and F82 M3 and M4.
Picture credit: S. Baldauf/SB-Medien.
Suffice to say the newcomer will feature retuned suspension- and steering geometry as well, as revised engine and transmission mapping. Late last year, it was reported that AutoBild’s Guido Naumann lapped the Lausitzring in an M5 CS prototype in a marginally faster time (1:31.88) than a 991-generation Porsche 911 GT3 (1:32.00).
It remains to be seen how many M5 CS units will be earmarked for the South African market; in the meantime, the facelifted M5 Competition is already listed on the site.
This article offers advice if you want to buy a used car from a private seller.
What questions should you ask the seller?
Once you have found a car that you potentially want to buy, you will want to contact the seller. You can make contact with the seller either through email or telephone, depending on the details provided by the seller. If you can, always contact the seller via telephone as scammers are more likely to communicate via email.
It’s important to ask as many questions as possible before you buy a used car. This will give you an indication if you should bother viewing the car personally and if the car meets your standards. Here are some questions you can ask the seller, but also think of other questions that might be relevant to the particular car you are interested in and your particular needs.
General Questions
How old is the car?
How many previous owners has the car had?
Who drives the car?
How long have you (the seller) owned the car for?
How much mileage has the car done?
What was the mileage when you (the seller) bought the car?
Describe the interior and exterior condition of the car?
Does the car have any outstanding finance?
Why are you (the seller) selling the car?
Where did you (the seller) buy the car?
What are you (the seller) willing to sell the car for?
Maintenance
Is there any damage to the car, both externally and/or mechanically?
Has the car been in any accidents?
Has the car had any maintenance done recently?
What maintenance needs to be done to the car? Example: Tyres, electrics, windscreen wipers, panel beating etc.
Paperwork
Does the car have all the necessary ownership and roadworthy documents?
Does the car have a service history logbook?
If you are interested in the car, you may want to arrange a date and time to view the car in person. Ask the seller for an address and arrange an appropriate date and time to meet.
*Tip: Research the market value of the car before contacting the seller. You can do this by comparing the car value with other similar cars on Cars.co.za. This will allow you to negotiate the selling price and will save you time and money.
What safety precautions should you take when meeting a private seller?
Personal safety and avoiding car scams is of paramount importance when potentially buying a car from a private seller. For your own safety, consider the following safety precautions:
Personal Safety when meeting the seller
Meet the seller in a public place or at the seller’s home, never meet in quiet or deserted locations
Have someone accompany you when meeting the seller
Never carry large amounts of cash with you
Let other people know where you are
Always be aware of what is happening around you
How to avoid car scams
Cars.co.za makes a considerable effort to ensure that every private vehicle advertised is a legitimate vehicle. However, knowing how to avoid being scammed is always important, here are some tips:
Compare the price of the vehicle with other similar vehicles on Cars.co.za. If the price is unusually low, it could be a scam
Never transfer money without seeing the vehicle personally
Never transfer money overseas or make a large deposit
Always meet the seller in person
Always contact the seller via phone number, preferably a landline number. Scammers often try and communicate via email only
Do a history check on the car to ensure it’s not stolen and to confirm the registration details
Make sure the ownership and roadworthy documents are original and that the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) matches the number on the documents
Make sure that the owner’s details match the details presented on the ownership and roadworthy documents
Check the service history of the car
If you suspect fraud or are a victim of a scam, contact the Police immediately
*Tip: If you feel unsure about the car, the seller or the documents, rather walk away.
Summary
Don’t feel shy to ask questions. Find out as much as you can about the car and the seller. Be aware of car scammers and always ensure your safety by taking someone with you when meeting with the seller.
What Type of Car Should You Buy?
If you want to buy a car but you're not entirely sure what type of car you should be considering, then this article will provide you with some guidance. It's important that you choose a car that fits your lifestyle and that it's able to fulfil your specific motoring needs.
Hatchbacks, crossovers, SUVs, bakkies, sportscars, there are so many different cars to choose from, but where do you start? Every car buyer has specific needs and those needs should inform the decisions you make when figuring out what type of car you need to buy. The questions listed here, and the answers you provide, will reveal the course of action you need to take in order to buy the car that's suitable for your specific lifestyle and needs. Answer the following questions to get a better idea of what you should be looking for in a car.
What will you be using your car for?
Top Tip: Purchase a vehicle that will cater to your car needs most often.
Do you mostly use the car for your business commute or family travel? What kind of lifestyle do you lead? Do you practice sports like mountain biking, surfing, diving or enjoy doing 4×4 trails? For example, if you travel mostly in urban areas and only do general driving, then a city car would make the most sense as opposed to a 4×4, for example. Choose a car that suits your specific needs and requirements.
How many people should the car be able to transport?
If the purpose of your vehicle includes transporting more than just yourself, you will then need to consider just how much seating and space you need in the car. Do you have children? If so, how many and at what ages? Do you have pets and do they travel with you often? Catering for others' needs is just as important as catering for your own. Unless you can afford multiple cars in the household, your choice should satisfy most of your needs most of the time.
How important is safety and safety features to you?
Would you rather buy the safest car you can afford or are luxury features a prime consideration considering the comfort of those who travel with you? We suggest setting a minimum safety feature requirement when you look to buy a car. For instance, 2 airbags, ABS with EBD, brake assist, and electronic stability control should be fitted to any vehicle you consider. Make safety a non-negotiable.
Do you want a manual or automatic car?
Do you enjoy controlling the performance of the car or are you happy to relax and let the car do the work? Some people find driving a manual car tedious, others find driving an automatic car boring or frustrating. You need to decide what will suit you best. Current trends show that buyers favour automatic transmissions, especially in built-up urban environments where congested traffic conditions are common.
Do you want a petrol or diesel car?
Diesel cars offer far superior fuel economy and more driving enjoyment than a petrol car with an equivalent engine size because of the high torque value generated low down in the engine rev range. However, diesels generally require higher maintenance due to more frequent oil changes and are generally a bit more expensive than the equivalent petrol model.
What are the conditions of the roads you frequent?
If you live in a big city with well-maintained tar roads, you have a much wider range of vehicle to choose from, while those living in more rural areas with lots of dirt roads will need to choose a vehicle more suited to the rugged terrain.
What is the weather like?
The climate should also influence your vehicle purchase, especially if you live in an area with extreme weather conditions. Areas that frequently experience heavy rain or snow may require a larger 4×4 type vehicle, while those which experience extreme heat may warrant a convertible or air conditioning at the very least.
Cost considerations when buying a car
Affordability
What car can you realistically afford to buy and own? Assess your affordability by taking a close look at your monthly expenses and your disposable income. Your disposable income (the amount of money left over after deducting all your monthly expenses from your income) will determine what car you are able to afford. If your disposable income is not sizable enough, you are not likely to qualify for car finance. If you don't have any disposable income then you simply can't afford to buy a car on credit. Whatever you do, don't buy a car you can't afford because this will likely lead to financial hardship or being blacklisted.
Different types of cars come with different inherent risk profiles, regardless of the risk profile of the driver, and thus will come with different insurance premiums. Sporty cars will generally come with higher insurance premiums compared to normal city cars. Check with your car insurance provider before you make the purchase to see what your premiums will be for the specific car you have in mind.
Maintenance costs
The various vehicle types will each come with their own maintenance and repair costs. Even though you might be able to afford a particular type of car, you might not be able to afford the additional costs that come with repairs and maintenance years down the line.
Resale of the car
Some manufacturers have a better reputation for reliability and low maintenance costs than others and so obtain higher resale values than rival makes. Keeping track of Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) and Initial Quality Survey (IQS) reports from institutions like JD Power are a good benchmark in performance.
If you are looking at buying a new car or a used car, it’s important to choose a car that you can afford to spend money on. This article highlights the factors you should consider before buying your next car.
How much do you earn?
Affordability is the most important factor to consider when buying a new or used car.
The car you are able to afford should be based on your income and how much you are willing and able to spend on a car on a monthly basis. Consider the following,
Net Income – Your take home’ salary after tax deductions,
Disposable Income – Net income minus monthly expenses.
*Tip: The general accepted rule of thumb is that you should not spend more than 20% of your total income on car payments.
Example of how much to spend on a car
When calculating how much you can spend on a car, it’s important that you allocate funds proportionally according to how much you earn. If you over-spend, you will accumulate debt over time and put your financial security at risk.
Net Income p/m
R 15 000
Monthly Expenses p/m
R 10 000
Disp. Income
R 5 000
Car Payment
R 3 000
Disp. Left
R 2 000
It’s also worth remembering that paying your monthly finance for a car is only one of the many costs associated with owning a car. Let’s take a look at some of the other costs of car ownership.
What costs should you consider before buying a car?
Purchase Price – The price you buy the car for will affect how much you pay every month. The more expensive the car, the more you can expect to spend in monthly instalments.
Down Payment – The more money you pay upfront, the less your monthly instalment will be. You can trade-in your current vehicle or sell it privately which can contribute towards a larger down payment.
Interest Rate – Higher interest rates generally mean higher monthly instalments.
Financing – The length of your financing term will determine your monthly instalment.
Insurance – Your monthly insurance cost will depend on the type of car you choose to drive and your driver risk profile.
Maintenance – Car maintenance is expensive and every car will have its own maintenance costs. Some cars are more expensive to maintain than others.
Fuel – The fuel price and the distances you travel will influence the cost of owning a car.
Depreciation – The car you buy will lose value over time. Different cars depreciate at different rates.
Fees – Car registration and licensing fees will add to the cost of owning a car.
*Tip: Consider all the costs associated with owning a car before buying a car. This will give you a realistic indication of what car you can afford to spend.
How can you save money when buying a car?
Buying a car is expensive and can easily become a financial burden. To save money when buying a car, consider the following,
Pay Cash
Pay cash for the car if you can. This means that you won’t have to worry about monthly instalments and crippling interest rates.
Financing
If you can’t pay cash for the car, you will have to finance the car. Aim to pay off your car as quickly as possible at the lowest interest rate you are able to obtain.
Short financing periods (24 months) generally translate into higher monthly instalments at a higher interest rate,
Long financing periods (48 months -72 months) generally translates into lower monthly instalments at a lower interest rate,
Long financing periods are expensive because you pay more interest over longer periods of time,
Take the time to shop around for the best car finance you can find.
Down Payment
Try to make your down payment as large as you possibly can, you may even be able to apply for a shorter financing period.
No down payment often leads to an ‘upside down loan’ which means that you owe more than what the car is worth. Avoid this situation at all costs.
Used cars
Consider buying a used car with low mileage that is one or two years old,
Used cars are generally cheaper than new cars,
Used cars depreciate slower than new cars.
Choose the right car
Buy a car that you need and can afford rather than buying a car that you want and can’t afford.
*Tip: If you can’t afford a car, don’t buy a car.
Summary
The amount of money you choose to spend on a car will depend on your personal financial situation and how much you are willing to spend on a car. Remember, buying a car is expensive and you should therefore buy a car that you are able to afford and maintain over time without compromising your financial security.
Mercedes-AMG A35 (2020) Review
There's a canyon-sized gap between the Mercedes-Benz A250 and the range-topping AMG A45 S and to bridge this gap, the Affalterbach-based performance brand has created the 35 range and carefully positioned it between the two. On paper, the A35's performance looks enticing for those whose budgets can't quite stretch to an A45 S but still want more street-cred than that offered by the lukewarm A250. Is it worth considering the A35, or should you sell your organs and rather go for broke with the A45 S?
We like: Strong and engaging engine, fun to drive, still retains the modern Mercedes-Benz premium look and feel.
We don’t like: Firm ride, intrusive tyre noise, pricey
Plugging the gap between the A250 and the A45 S is the A35, and it's aimed squarely at the BMW M135i and Audi S3.
To plug the gap between the 165 kW Mercedes-Benz A250 which retails for R698 240 and the hyper-hatch that is the 310 kW A45 S (R1 156 840), Mercedes-AMG has created the A35. Available in both hatchback and sedan guise, the 35 range also includes the CLA, should you be interested in a slinky sedan coupe. It's not just internal battles that Mercedes-AMG is facing as the rest of the segment has shifted.
Rivals from BMW have neutered its flagship 1-Series, by chopping two cylinders and losing its wild rear-wheel-drive setup in favour of all-wheel drive. The BMW M135i is a match for the A35 in terms of power output, but boasts a smidge more torque. Audi has recently revealed its all-new S3 and it'll touch down in South Africa in 2021, boasting the same power and torque outputs as the A35. Finally, SA's favourite, the Golf R, now in its 8th generation will be landing in 2021, packing 235 kW and 420 Nm, which is expected to set the cat amongst the pigeons when it arrives later in 2021.
Given the pace that the segment is progressing, the Mercedes-AMG A35 must deliver AMG-like performance and Mercedes-like luxury. Does it do this with enough purpose to warrant a purchase?
How it performs in terms of…
Exterior Design & Packaging
It's no Panamericana grille, but this grille with the AMG badge will have to do.
When petrolheads think of a typical AMG hatchback, perhaps an image that comes to mind is of a car with extraverted amounts of aerodynamic aids. By comparison, our A35 test unit looked remarkably underwhelming. Referenced against the configurator, we noted our test unit was rather barebones, riding on the standard wheels and finished in the standard night black paint. If you're wanting to resemble an extra from The Fast and the Furious franchise, have a casual gander in the configurator where you can get vivid yellow paint, bolder wheel designs as well as the aerodynamic package, complete with splitters and huge rear wing. There are also 4 alloy wheel designs to choose from if you must…
To separate it from both the run-of-the-mill A250 and the full-bore A45 S, the A35 receives an AMG-specific grille. It's not the Panamericana vertical slat grill as that's reserved for the A45 S, but it's enough to give the A35 its own identity. The key tell-tale sign that this is no ordinary A-Class is the twin exhausts at the rear, and given its performance, it's likely to be the view most other road users will see.
Twin exhausts and subtle A35 badge tell you this is no ordinary A-Class.
Performance and ride/handling
Powering the A35 is a modified version of the Mercedes-Benz's A250 2.0-litre motor. AMG has tweaked it and bolted on a new turbocharger, and outputs sit at 225 kW and 400 Nm putting it squarely in the middle of the segment. Our test unit featured the Race Pack telemetry system (R4 700) that allows for lap time recordings as well as performance analysis and measurements. On a long, deserted straight road, we put the system to the test and dialled up the race start function.
It's refreshingly easy to operate too, with a simple turn of the steering-wheel dial to Sport+. Left foot to depress the brake and hold the vehicle in position, right foot to bury the throttle all the way. A cute graphic appears and the engine revs climb. Release your left foot to unleash all 225 kW and 400 Nm onto the tarmac. Boom! The A35 scoots off the line with minimal hesitation and in just 4.80 seconds, 100 kph was reached. AMG itself claims 4.7 secs so this was a great result on the first attempt. What's really impressive is the first-generation A45 from 2013/2014 boasted a claimed 0-100 kph of 4.6 seconds, and we would bet the new A35 would run the older model very close in a straight line.
With the engine in its most dynamic setting and the gearbox set to manual, the A35 is confidence-inspiring and fun to drive in the twisties
Throw some corners into the mix and the A35 delivers some predictable fun. The 4Matic all-wheel-drive provides excellent levels of grip, but with the car in Sport+, the powertrain cleverly sends a bit more shove to the rear axle in an effort to dial out understeer, typical of all-paw performance vehicles. For those who aren't confident when pressing on, the A35 will give you an ego boost when you throw it into some mountain passes as the whole process is entirely manageable and you're not going to encounter any nasty surprises. You'll run out of bravery long before the A35 loses stability.
The steering is accurate and direct but ultimately could benefit from a bit more feel This, however, is a criticism we level at nearly every performance car these days. Try to drive a BMW M240i in the same manner and you'll be fighting the car's stability control as the rear wheels step out.
The dual-clutch transmission has been tuned by AMG too, and delivers quick shifts that give you a thump in the back. The paddles themselves have a lovely tactile action and feel. With each shift in Sport+, lovely pops and bangs are heard out the back. Speaking of sound, the engine has a pleasant growl to it. Tired of the noisy shenanigans and don't want to upset your neighbours? Simply turn the driving mode dial back into comfort, the exhaust flaps close, and the car reverts to its default setting – merely a premium hatchback doing an average commute.
Despite lacking the full MBUX experience, the cabin is still an exciting and technology-laden place to be
Downsides? The Mercedes-AMG A35 has a firm ride, which is to be expected, but its rivals have more comfort and refinement dialled into them. While we all dream of driving these fast machines at pace to our heart's content, they still have to fulfil their primary role of transportation and a level of everyday comfort is necessary. It's adequate, sure, but you will feel those rough corrugations on the tarmac. There's also a considerable amount of road noise, even on the standard wheel setup. For additional comfort, Mercedes-AMG does offer adaptive dampers as an option for R24 000.
Interior execution and features
As we've mentioned, our test unit was curiously devoid of optional extras. Common practice from the German OEMs is to load the media demonstration units to the hilt with every conceivable option, so testers can evaluate all the tech. When we encounter a car that's not fully loaded, we assume there's been a mistake. In the case of this A35, this assumption was unfair as you're still getting a considerable amount of standard features which you'd expect in a premium product with a price tag of over R800k. Stepping inside, you'll notice the AMG steering wheel which is both a joy to look at and hold. New to the car are the rotary mode selectors, which we've spoken about above. Now it's quicker and easier to simply turn these to toggle settings like engine modes, start/stop on and off as well as activating gearbox manual override. These dials also contribute to the overall sportiness of the interior and give the driver the impression that you're driving something special.
These dials are game-changers and we won't be surprised to see many other manufacturers adopt similar switchgear.
The next eye-catching cabin feature is the MBUX digital infotainment system. Granted, our test unit didn't have the full 10.25-inch display, but there are enough graphics, modes and settings here to keep most tech enthusiasts happy. Annoyingly, the vehicle comes with two USB-C ports, which will require an adaptor to allow your phone to be connected to the vehicle and make use of the Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Our test unit came with a wireless phone charging pad (R3 600 option) but we think it's worth it. The vehicle also features the digital assistant, which is quite useful if you need to execute a specific task. Shouting, 'Hey Mercedes, temperature to 20 degrees.' is likely the quickest way to get the climate control into action without lifting a finger.
The basic MBUX features customisable themes and all the info you'd need is delivered on a crisp and colourful display.
Our test unit featured the standard sport seats which are both comfortable and supportive, and really embrace the sporty theme with the red seat belts. Mercedes-AMG offers a number of seating options, but if your budget allows, we'd go for the full bucket seat experience complete with heating and electronic adjustability, for R61 000. In terms of practicality, rear legroom is a tight squeeze, but we'd happily sacrifice that in favour of a substantial and spacious boot, something which the A35 does boast.
Sporty seats with red seatbelts? Yes please!
Price and after-sales service (December 2020)
The Mercedes-AMG A35 hatchback retails for R883 000 before options, and there is a sedan model available for R890 520. The vehicle is sold with a 2-year/unlimited km warranty and a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan.
This is the cheapest way to get an AMG product in your driveway and petrolheads can take comfort in knowing this is no tarted-up A250. While the engine may not be one of those fabled handbuilt units that Affalterbach is known for, AMG has still worked its magic and the motor delivers significant thrills. Let's not forget AMG's hard work in other areas either, like the gearbox software, the suspension and the brakes. If you're not keen on following the masses and going for the current shape Volkswagen Golf R and don't want to wait for the newer model or its Audi S3 sibling, then the A35 offers an attractive balance between performance and luxury. Having driven the BMW M135i and Audi S3, we'd say the Mercedes-AMG A35 has both licked terms of engagement and thrills. It feels exciting and engaging to drive quickly, which is not something that can be said for the BMW and Audi but they do however pip the A35 in terms of ride comfort.
We've come to know AMG as a power-crazed brand, but the A35 doesn't echo this ethos. Instead words like predictable and safe come to mind, but there's still credible performance to satisfy the average motorist. Plus, if you choose your options carefully, you can create a vehicle that has every comfort and convenience feature ticked. You could go all out and make your A35 resemble an A45 S, or go the subtle and stealthy understated look like this black test unit…
Should you buy one? If you're someone who is wanting to tick those performance and luxury boxes in one easy move and don't require the additional space that an SUV can offer, then the A35 is an easy sell. Or is it? As we near the end of 2020, the first A45 S units have started to appear on Cars.co.za and other listing sites and we estimate that 6 months from now, we're going to be seeing the price of low-mileage hyper hatches move into the same bracket as fully-loaded new A35 units. Decisions, decisions…
