Our spy photographers have captured images of the forthcoming facelifted BMW X5 premium SUV.
Picture credit: S. Baldauf/SB-Medien. We have paid for these photos and at the photographer's request, have watermarked them.?
An all-new BMW X5 arrived in South Africa late in 2018 and now the popular premium SUV from the Munich-based firm is under the knife for a mid-life update.
The images you see here are the first spy shots of the facelifted BMW X5 captured in Munich, Germany and while the camouflage wrap might hide some details, it’s clear that BMW has revised both the front and rear bumpers and we expect stylistic enhancements for the headlight clusters and taillights too. This is a ‘Hybrid Test Vehicle’ as denoted on the rear tailgate.
The current range of petrol, diesel and hybrid powertrains are expected to be carried over for this facelift which means the X5 30d will forge on with 195 kW and 620 Nm while the big-daddy X5 M50d’s 6-cylinder, 3.0-litre quad-turbocharged diesel is expected to fall away as the production of this mighty diesel engine has sadly come to an end.
The petrol X5 M50i offers no less than 390 kW and 750 Nm while the X5 range will be headlined by the X5 M Competition with its bi-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 engine producing 460 kW and 750 Nm. The X5 xDrive45e hybrid with 290 kW and 600 Nm is also expected to be offered locally.
Also, BMW recently showed its forthcoming all-electric iX5 which is expected to on sale in 2022.
You can expect to see the updated X5 revealed early in 2021 and can be expected to reach local showrooms before the end of that year. We will keep you updated as soon as more information becomes available.
McLaren has given its next-generation hybrid supercar a name. The Artura is coming in 2021!
McLaren’s forthcoming hybrid supercar will be called the Artura and will draw on McLaren’s electrification expertise showcased in the P1 and more recently, in the McLaren Speedtail which is currently the fastest car in the brand’s stable with a top speed of 403 kph.
The Artura is built on an all-new platform and will debut an all-new twin-turbocharged V6 petrol engine working in conjunction with an electric motor to deliver hybrid performance to match the brand’s famed V8 engines while also benefitting from improved torque response low down in the rev range, translating into blisteringly-fast acceleration.
While official outputs for this new hybrid powertrain remain unknown at this point, power figures of more than 447 kW are expected. Combined with an ultra-lightweight, chassis and body developed at the McLaren Composites Technology Centre in the UK, the Artura’s performance should be impressive.
“Every element of the Artura is all-new – from the platform architecture and every part of the High-Performance Hybrid powertrain, to the exterior body, interior and cutting-edge driver interface – but it draws on decades of McLaren experience in pioneering super-lightweight race and road car technologies to bring all of our expertise in electrification to the supercar class” said Mike Flewitt, Chief Executive Officer, McLaren Automotive.
The Artura will go on sale in the first half of 2021 and a full reveal is expected in coming months.
Compression ignition petrol squeezes more power from 2-litres.
Some exciting upgrades have been announced for the Mazda3.
One of Japan’s most regarded compact car platforms, the Mazda3 is set to benefit from better engine technology and smoother smart cruise control.
Mazda has always been an innovator with its engine development. Famed for the rotary engine, Mazda has also long resisted turbocharged engines, believing that the true volumetric efficiency did not produce sufficiently lower fuel consumption.
Its new SkyActiv-X engine features incredible compression ignition petrol technology. Whereas direct-injection has done much to lower charge temperatures and increase efficiency, Mazda’s ability to find a workable spark-controlled compression ignition set-up has made its SkyActiv-X 2-litre a terrific achievement.
Engineers have managed to optimize the Mazda3 petrol engine’s combustion and reprogrammed its software, to deliver more power. With outputs of 140 kW and 240 Nm, it compares very favourably to the 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine that does duty in the CX-5.
Aside from the 8 kW increase in engine power over the 2020 model year SkyActiv-X engine, Mazda’s mechanical engineers have also improved the awareness of its hatchback’s adaptive cruise control. This should make the Mazda3 easier to trust, when triggering its semi-autonomous driver-assist systems, such as the automated cruise control.
Beyond the sprightlier 2-litre four-cylinder engine and more intuitive cruise control, Mazda’s technical experts have also made its hatchback and sedan range better balanced on the move.
The technical department at Mazda has managed to source superior coil springs and dampers, which are claimed to lessen road surface vibration. This should give the Mazda3 a more settled ride and quieter cabin, especially when travelling over poorly surfaced roads. This in itself is impressive as the Mazda3 has some of the best road manners and quietest cabins in its segment.
Mazda is delivering its latest compact car product upgrades to the Japanese domestic market first, with a global rollout to be confirmed in time.
The compact family car segment is positively bursting with competitive offerings. For a model to succeed in this cutthroat market, its needs to be better than good; Suzuki is banking on a modern, efficient powertrain and a comprehensive features list in its flagship Vitara 1.4T GLX auto. Could it steal some sales away from its rivals?
We like: Value for money, performance & efficiency, good spec and spacious.
We don’t like: Some cheap plastic trim here and there, but we're really nitpicking.
Fast Facts:
Model: Suzuki Vitara 1.4T GLX auto
Price: R426 900
Engine: 1.4-litre turbopetrol 4-cylinder
Power/Torque: 103 kW/220 Nm
Transmission: 6-speed automatic
Fuel consumption: 5.9 L/100 km (claimed)
Top speed: 200 kph
Acceleration: 9.5 seconds to 100 kph
What is it? ?
The 1.4T GLX auto sits at the upper end of is segment, but it undercuts the VW T-Cross 1.5TFSi R-Line by R15k.
This is not our first experience of a turbocharged Vitara. Back in October 2019, we reviewed a 1.4T GLX and it duly won us over with its eager performance; it was a welcome cherry on top of the build quality, refinement and practicality that endeared the Suzuki to us before. However, that particular test was of a manual derivative. While there was a lot to like about the slick 6-speed transmission, buyers tend to favour self-shifting derivatives (especially at the higher end of the segment). With expectations high, we put the Vitara 1.4T GLX auto to the test. Here's how it fared.
How it performs in terms of…
Performance and ride/handling
The greater flexibility afforded by the 1.4-litre turbocharged motor makes the automatic transmission's job much easier.
To refresh your memory (in case this is the first time you're reading up on the turbocharged Vitara), the compact family car is powered by a forced-induction 1.4-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine. You may notice just how close the motor's peak outputs (103 kW and 220 Nm) are to those of the Swift Sport – that's right, this flagship derivative shares its engine with a compact hot (okay, warm) hatchback! In Vitara application, there's 10 Nm less, but we adore the K14C Boosterjet motor all the same. Compared with the naturally-aspirated 1.6-litre motor, which produces 86 kW and 151 Nm, the turbocharged mill is much more spirited. In fact, we'd go as far as to say the 1.6 litre only makes sense if you're shopping on a tight budget.
The ever-responsive turbopetrol motor is a peach and smartly calibrated with the (6-speed) automatic transmission. Shift paddles are located on the steering wheel (for those who like to actuate up- and downshifts for themselves), but they lack some tactile quality, even if they function well.
Despite the 'box being of the conventional torque-converter type – not a quick-shifting dual-clutch unit, it shifts reasonably quickly. The biggest benefit of the 1.4T's additional zip and responsiveness is impressive overtaking ability; in-gear performance is excellent for this segment. Despite a slight performance bent, the fuel economy was commendable, with our trip computer displayed a commendable 7 L/100 km (claim 5.9 L/100 km).
Steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles are nice to have, but the Suzuki's powertrain is so well-calibrated, you might never use 'em.
The Vitara may be marketed as a car for practically-minded buyers, but don't be surprised if you find yourself driving it with a fair degree of verve, at least more than would usually be reserved for a compact family car. Few cars in this segment are involving to drive and it's great to feel the spirit of the Swift Sport coursing through its bigger sibling. The ride quality is good too, with the 17-inch tyres soaking up most of the road's pockmarks.
Given its light crossover designation, the Suzuki will be expected to leave the tar now and again and while (part-time) all-wheel-drive capability is the preserve of the 1.6 GLX AllGrip derivative, the 1.4T GLX Auto acquits itself adequately on average unsealed road surfaces. Thanks to 185 mm of ground clearance, you should be able to clear most minor obstacles, plus you can override the gearbox to force it to stay in 1st gear, creating a pseudo-low-range effect, should the going get rough. The steering is nice and light too, making the Vitara feel smaller and nimbler than it is.
Exterior design
Whereas the pre-facelift Vitara looked neat, if a little anonymous, the revised version looks a bit sharper and more distinctive.
In 2019, Suzuki gave its Vitara a mild update. Apart from the introduction of 1.4-litre turbopetrol derivatives, LED headlights (in addition to LED daytime running lights) and chrome detailing in the grille contribute to a more upmarket look.
The Vitara's styling may be regarded as dull and conservative by some, but customers can opt for a range of vibrant exterior colours; we're big fans of this subtle grey-blue, called Ice Greyish Blue. There's also the option of a contrasting roof. The 17-inch alloy wheels really look the part too.
The black roof adds a sense of sophistication to the exterior execution, the roof rails neatly complement the handsome alloys.
Interior execution
As ever, the Vitara's interior is smart and ergonomically sound. Given its price positioning (at over the R400k mark), you'd expect touches of luxury… and that's exactly what you get with leather seats, as well as suede on the door panels. Strangely, these are contrasted with hard plastics that are littered around the cabin. That being said, there's are just enough soft-touch finishes… and everything feels tough and long-lasting.
We enjoyed the infotainment system's ability to read out (and respond to) WhatsApp messages without distracting the driver.
There's a 4.2-inch colour multi-info display in the instrument cluster and the 7-inch touchscreen infotainment is Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible. With your smartphone connected, you can access navigation services, as well as entertainment functions such as streaming music and podcasts. For us, the system's best feature was that it could read out your WhatsApp messages (and reply on your behalf) – your hands never need to leave the 'wheel. We would've liked a volume-adjustment knob on the infotainment unit, the touchscreen control wasn't the most accurate.
Features
An updated instrument cluster and touchscreen infotainment system has contemporised the Vitara's dashboard.
In terms of other noteworthy standard interior features, a reverse-view camera and front/rear parking sensors are availed, along with a panoramic sunroof, climate control (automatic aircon), as well as automatic wipers. In terms of safety features, the 1.4T GLX auto is comprehensively specified, with 7 airbags, ABS with brake assist and EBD, ESP (electronic stability control) and rear ISOfix child seat anchorage points.
The Vitara's practicality is one of its trump cards. Not only does its cabin offer sufficient space to seat 4 adults in comfort, but its load bay is notably capacious; only the bays of the Volkswagen T-Cross and Kia Seltos offer more capacity. In fact, the generous luggage space makes the Mazda CX-3 and Toyota C-HR's luggage areas look ludicrously small. Need to transport a set of golf clubs or a mountain bike? Simply fold the rear seats down to gain access over 1 100 litres of utility space. Gripes? We would have liked to see a pair of separate ventilation outlets for the rear passengers.
Whereas rear legroom is often no more than fair in compact family cars, even adults sit comfortably on the Vitara's aft bench.
Price and after-sales service
The Suzuki Vitara range starts at R310 900, with this flagship 1.4T GLX auto derivative costing R426 900. The vehicle is sold with a 5-year/200 000 km warranty and a 4-year/60 000 km service plan.
Suzuki's aftersales offering is commendable with a substantial dealership footprint. Also, Suzuki has won the Brand of the Year title of the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards – powered by WesBank twice so far.
The segment in which the Vitara resides is densely populated, but sadly lacks vehicles that offer much in the way of personality and enthusiasm. Granted, it is a segment focused on practicality and value for money, but we're pleased Suzuki is determined to tick those boxes too. The 1.4T GLX auto reminds customers driving can still be enjoyable, both on tar and off it. Talk about an extra emphasis on the Sport in Sport Utility Vehicle! The new powertrain and interior space are the best selling points of this vehicle. Putting aside our enthusiasm for driver's cars, the Suzuki Vitara is one of the Cars.co.za content team's favourite models and, by virtue of bagging a pair of #CarsAwards category wins, clearly one of our readers' too.
However, there's a lot to choose from if you're prepared to fork out R400 000-plus for a do-it-all family vehicle. The Volkswagen T-Cross has gained many fans, while the Kia Seltos is a relative newcomer and a substantially reworked Hyundai Creta will soon be available. While some have suggested that the 1.4T GLX auto's price is now too steep, bear in mind that comparable top-of-the-rage Seltos, Honda HR-V, Toyota CH-R and T-Cross derivatives cost more than the flagship Vitara; what's more, the Suzuki's standard spec is comprehensive, its aforementioned rivals' less so.
Audi welcomes the potent S7 to its local A7 executive sedan offering. See specification and pricing details below…
Earlier in 2020, we spent time behind the ‘wheel of the Audi’s A7 Sportback 55 TFSI and we came away impressed with not only its packaging but also its powerful performance. Now, Audi welcomes an even more potent S7 Sportback to the fold, boasting 331 kW and 600 Nm from its 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 engine with a 48-volt Mild Hybrid System (MHEV) which includes a belt alternator starter and a 10 Ah lithium-ion battery stored in below the luggage compartment.
A 7-speed dual-clutch transmission catapults the S7 with quattro all-wheel-drive from zero to 100 kph in 4.6 seconds before reaching a top speed of 250 kph. All-wheel steering is optional as is adaptive air suspension but Audi’s S sport suspension with damping control is standard. More so, for even more agility and sportier handling ability, the S7 can also be optionally equipped with a sport differential on the rear axle.
Visually, the S7 is distinguished by dark chrome and aluminium trim seen in the grille, side air inlets, front blade, exterior mirrors and rear diffuser, the former of which houses 4 exhaust outlets. High-Definition Matrix LEDs are also fitted while the animated rear LED lights are connected with a light strip for added visual presence. The S7 rides on unique 21-inch alloy wheels.
The S7 is equipped with all the 'bells and whistles' to ensure that your comfort is well taken care of.
The S7’s interior is familiar from the current A7 range and features nice-to-haves such as Audi’s Virtual Cockpit with a 12.3-inch display, MMI Navigation Plus, 4-zone climate control air conditioning, high-definition touchscreen with haptic feedback, ambient lighting with 30 colour options, Bang and Olufsen premium 3D sound system and a panoramic sunroof.
The S7 also gains S sports seats in Valcona leather with integrated head restraints and an embossed ‘S’ logo as standard but you can also choose leather and Alcantara or Valcona and Milano leather combinations as a no-cost option and the upholstery can be had in either black, rotor grey or arras red. Buyers can also choose to have multi-adjustable contour seats with ventilation and massage functions.
Other features include an S-specific layout for the digital instrument cluster, a flat-bottom steering wheel, stainless steel footrest and pedal caps as well as illuminated ‘S’ sills.
In terms of driver assistance, a 360-degree camera is fitted and features such as adaptive cruise control, lane change warning and night vision assistant are particularly useful features.
Audi S7 – Price in South Africa (November 2020)
Audi S7 Sportback – R1 500 500
The S7 is sold with a 5year/100 000km Audi Freeway Plan.
Jeep will be showcasing an updated Compass at the Guangzhou Auto Show in China this week. See what’s changed below…
The styling changes to the latest Jeep Compass are quite subtle and you might need to put your spectacles on spot the changes. The front bumper and grille have been revised and slimmer LED headlights have also been fitted, giving the compass’ design an added dash of sophistication. The taillights design has been revised too but perhaps the most notable changes are to be seen inside!
We reviewed the range-topping Compass 4×4 Trailhawk last year and its interior design does look and feel dated compared with many of its rivals. Jeep, however, has modernised the Compass’ cabin by installing a large, upright 10.1-inch infotainment system as well as a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. The dashboard and centre console itself also features a new design and Jeep has also thrown in a new steering wheel. All in all, it looks much better!
As for engines, the current 125 kW/250 Nm 1.4-litre turbopetrol and naturally-aspirated 129 kW/229 Nm 2.4 litre petrol engine will be carried over and come mated with a 9-speed automatic transmission or 6-speed manual transmission.
We have reached out to Jeep South Africa and the local arrival of the updated Compass can be expected in Q2 of 2021.
The Volkswagen T-Roc will go on sale in South Africa in November 2020 and local pricing details have now been announced. See what you can expect from the T-Roc below…
The Volkswagen T-Roc is a midsized SUV which slots between the compact Volkswagen T-Cross and the Volkswagen Tiguan. With the SUV market booming, Volkswagen is determined to fill each and every niche. In terms of size, it's similar to that of a Volkswagen Golf, but the T-Roc has a bigger boot (445 litres as opposed to 385 litres in the Golf). Flip the back seats down and you gain up to 1 290 litres.
The new Volkswagen T-Roc is based on the MQB platform which underpins products like the Volkswagen Golf, Polo, Audi A3 and Q2.
South African Derivatives
The South African market will be receiving the Volkswagen T-Roc with 2 engines and 2 levels of trim. Starting off the range is the 1.4-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder motor with 110 kW and 250 Nm. This will be mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission and Volkswagen says its good for a 0-100 kph run in 8.4 seconds.
For those looking for a bit more grunt, there's a 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder motor with 140 kW and 320 Nm. This time, however, power goes to all 4 wheels via a 7-speed DSG and it'll take just 7.2 seconds to reach 100 kph.
For those wanting even more performance, there's a Volkswagen T-Roc R which is under consideration for our market.
T-Roc Trim
The two levels of trim are Design and R-Line. Design focuses on visual elements, while the R-Design is aimed at the customer seeking sportiness. The Design model comes standard with the 17-inch Mayfield alloy wheel, with 2 options of the 18-inch Montego alloy wheel and 18-inch Grange Hill alloy wheel. The R-Line features the 19-inch Suzuka alloy wheel, which we've seen before on the Tiguan.
The new Volkswagen T-Roc comes standard with the Composition Media radio and App-Connect, complete with an 8-inch touchscreen and 2 USB ports. The Design trim level also features climatronic air conditioning, connectivity via the We Connect Go app, Voice Control, LED tail light cluster, visual underbody guard (black) and Park Distance Control (front and rear).
In terms of the Volkswagen T-Roc R-Line, that comes standard with high-tech systems such as Front Assist area monitoring with City Emergency Braking and Pedestrian Monitoring, the Automatic Post-Collision Braking System and Lane Assist. Also thrown in are LED daytime running lights in the bumper and dynamic cornering lights, 19-inch Suzuka alloy wheels, the latest generation Active info display, Keyless entry, Mobile phone inductive charging, Adaptive Cruise Control with Front Assist and Vienna leather seats. Some options to look at are the panoramic sunroof, an electronic trailer hitch, smoker's package, Discover Pro navigation system with a 9.2-inch screen, the Beats sound system and the Park Package.
Volkswagen T-Roc Price in South Africa (November 2020)
The all-new Volkswagen T-Roc will come to market with a 3 year/120 000km warranty, 5 years/ 90 000km Volkswagen Service Plan and a 12-year anti-corrosion warranty.
In this week's roundup of the news you may need to know, contributor Brent van der Schyff delves into why Nurburgring lap times don't matter, how Mini has fooled us all and how he's salivating over the prospect of the next-generation Subaru BRZ/Toyota 86.
In case you were napping during the week, the Mercedes-AMG Black GT Black Series is now officially the fastest production car to lap the Nürburgring. A benchmark Nordschleife lap time has turned into THE yardstick for any fast road-going car, be it a hatchback, minibus or sportscar. It's nothing less than flagrant OEM one-upmanship… Ferrari’s Pista, McLaren’s 720s, Lamborghini’s SVJ and most recently, Porsche and their ridiculously quick GT2 RS have all fallen prey to this. Sure, there’s solid merit in the endeavour (apart from generating marketing razzmatazz and viral content) – track-testing can lead to improved vehicle dynamics, but from my perspective, Nürburgring lap-record attempts are silly. Here’s why.
The iconic Nurburgring circuit has long been the place for manufacturers to see who can go the fastest.
Track conditions can differ and change at any time; in fact, they are never perfect (optimal). You only have to consider last week’s Formula 1 race in Istanbul as a fine example. The times from the first session of free practice to the second, both held in dry conditions, were worlds apart. Once the track became a lot grippier in 2nd practice, the cars' lap times improved by 6 seconds purely due to track evolution. That is around a 5.3-km circuit.
Extrapolate those factors over the 'Ring’s 20.83-km distance and you’ll quickly see how things can vary. The schizophrenic nature of a racetrack, although indicative of potential, is seldomly a fair platform to test outright pace, let alone on the public road that is the “Green hell”. Nürburgring lap record attempts have just become a novel thing to do in the pot-hunting game. The solution: get all the cars together, regulated by a body representing the consumer (preferably men with grey beards, long white coats and holding clipboards) to ensure matching conditions, no trickery e.g. boost fiddling (not accusing you, Mercedes), all cars on the same set of rubber, a controlled circuit that has been sufficiently rubbered in on a lovely summer’s day at the coast (not to mention a controlled fuel load) and then we’ll see who can really "wee the furthest".
We're getting to that point in the Huracan life-cycle where every model is a special edition.
Sticking to the horsepower game, Lamborghini lifted the veil on their latest derangement of a beastly car (call the Pope), labelled the STO (which does sound a bit like a disease that visits once a year). As much as I hate the use of the generic word “bonkers” (Car guys really need to expand the vocabulary here) it IS exactly that. STO is short for Super Trofeo Omologata. Say that after a couple of Negronis and things could get messy. And yes, the Bolognese locals have ensured that it’s more powerful and lighter than the EVO and the Performante. We all see where this is going…a Nürburgring lap record attempt. Oh boy. What have we created? Facepalm. At least with this one, there’s a big old bolshy V10 in the back to kick up a ruckus. Lamborghini is, after all, one of the last manufacturers to still back the dying breed of the V10. Even the Pope has one.
Let's turn the horsepower down a bit. Okay, a lot. The latest iteration of the Mini Countryman has been launched in the Republic. I feel obliged to point out the trickery that has played out since BMW bought the “little” brand and modernised it for 21st-century tastes. Fair play, BMW. In slow increments, these cars have become progressively larger and more purpose-built for the consumer. It must be warranted as there’s demand turning the Countryman into the "mom car" of choice. As a Mini disciple (I still own my first car… a classic Mini Clubman) and as big as they’ve become and as far removed from the original MINI as it is, I’m okay with it. There will also be a 225 kW JCW flagship variant so guess it’s off to the Nürburgring.
New BRZ packs more power and more torque. Enough to quiet the haters?
The new Subaru BRZ is only being launched in America (for now), but it’s an important development. Why? The (GT) 86 connection; the BRZ shares its platform with the Toyota and the new version of the latter will almost certainly be available in Mzansi in future. Now, you get 2 types of petrolheads: Those who'll valiantly defend the cars' flat-4 engine 'till the last person switches the lights off and those that well… cannot stand them.
Let’s zoom in on the haters' arguments. Reliability issues of the boxer engine (but that rorty sound, though) and the general performance levels of the naturally aspirated mill are anything but overwhelming. But with this new model, the Shibuya-based firm seems to have answered the power question: 23 more kWs and 45 more Nm is a serious blip on the radar. Off to the 'Ring! And with what Toyota is doing these days ala GR Supra and GR Yaris, this is something to watch out for. Why is this a big deal? The BRZ/86 is an affordable gateway to rear-wheel-drive manual fun, a platform that has waned in an era of turbocharging, flappy paddles and AWD. The newcomer/s may even beat a Polo GTI in a sprint at the Reef… maybe.
Spot the author, hidden behind the huge SUV's A-pillar.
Speaking of which, Audi Q7, pssst, don’t tell anyone, but I got to drive it before the local launch. If you zoom in closely on Audi SA's press images, you’ll see me giving my best trying-to-stay-cool-behind-the-wheel look. And I need to confess that the Premium SUV has evolved into quite the refined powerhouse. You can’t fault it. Performance has improved, refinement is at an all-time high and that’s what the market’s craving.
The lofty price tags of these luxury behemoths do make me wince, however. Part of me still loathes the fact that driver-focused cars make up such a small part of the market. Just look at the endless derivatives of SUVs that are on offer in comparison to performance cars and I’m not talking about the X-Men versions of these SUVs (like the upcoming SQ7 version that packs 900 Nm). Oh no, not another Nürburgring lap record attempt!
SUVs are engineered to dull (if not eliminate) the visceral connection between a driver, their car and the road. But WHY? I understand that as you grow older, you factor in things like back pain in your decision-making criteria/want a more comfortable ride, but petrolheads, who enjoy a dash of a speed don’t quite understand that there’s a large part of the market that doesn’t. I shudder to think I have those in my circle, but it is the truth.
Nissan to Reveal Updated Terra SUV Soon
Nissan’s Terra 7-seater adventure SUV is being updated with an official reveal expected on 25 November 2020.
Why does it matter? Well, we are keeping an eye on developments regarding the Nissan Terra because it’s been earmarked for introduction in South Africa and it might arrive on local soil towards the end of 2021 or in 2022.
Nissan Middle East is now planning on revealing a facelifted Terra SUV next week and it remains to be seen if the SUV will feature a new face similar to that seen on the latest Navara.
If the Terra makes it to South Africa, it will likely feature the same 2.3-litre turbodiesel engine with 140 kW and 450 Nm of torque and mated with a 7-speed automatic transmission.
6 Things You Need to Know: Updated Mercedes-Benz SUV range
Cars.co.za correspondent Ian McLaren takes a closer look at the various updates that Mercedes-Benz South Africa recently made to its impressive SUV portfolio.
1. 40 years of G
Known as the G-Class (Geländewagen is German for “terrain vehicle”), the granddaddy of the modern Benz SUV line-up was introduced in 1979. Hugely capable off-road, this vehicle has nevertheless established a cult-like following among enthusiasts who crave its sheer sense of presence, old-school charm and even the distinct sound its doors make as you slam them closed.
A year after its international reveal, the G 400d "Stronger Than Time Edition is now available in South Africa. Featuring various G Manufaktur custom trim bits, this anniversary G-Wagon is fitted with 20-inch alloy wheels that complement standard AMG- and Night Package upgrades.
A selection of 6 Nappa leather interior colours is available, with Olive Metallic one of 4 exclusive exterior finishes on offer.
As its name suggests, the G 400d is powered by the brand’s impressive 243 kW/700 Nm 2.9-litre six-cylinder turbodiesel engine mated with a 9-speed automatic transmission.
Pricing for the G 400d Stronger Than Time Edition starts at R2 890 000.
2. Return of the Maybach
Complimenting the all-new GLS range is the flagship GLS 600 Maybach derivative. Set to rival the likes of the Rolls-Royce Cullinan and Bentley Bentayga, the price tag for this range-topping model is R2 917 000 (before options, of course).
With rear passenger comfort in this segment paramount, Mercedes-Maybach owners are treated to a set of heated and ventilated reclining back seats with a full complement of modern MBUX infotainment services.
The GLS 600 Maybach is powered by a 410 kW/730 Nm 4.0-litre turbopetrol V8 engine. Air suspension is naturally standard fitment, while 22-inch alloy wheels and the full selection of custom exterior paint finishes complete the suitably upmarket styling.
Mercedes-Benz SA now offers its new GLE Coupe in 400d guise, with AMG-fettled 53- and 63 derivatives scheduled for 2021. Distinguishable via its standard AMG Sport Pack exterior, including “diamond-studded” grille and 20-inch alloy wheels, the newest GLE Coupe is also fitted with a panoramic sunroof and a retractable tow hitch.
Riding on an (Airmatic) air suspension, the GLE Coupe 400d is powered by the brand’s silky-smooth 2.9-litre, inline 6-cylinder turbodiesel engine mated with a 9-speed automatic transmission.
While Alcantara-clad sports seats are highlights of the GLE Coupe’s interior, it’s difficult not to notice the impressive full-compliment of MBUX technologies, including their corresponding 12.3-inch display screens.
Pricing on the new GLE 400d Coupe starts at R1 814 000.
Boasting a claimed 0-100 kph sprint time of less than 4.0 sec, the new Mercedes-AMG GLC 63S and GLC 63S Coupe siblings feature the brand’s 4Matic+ all-wheel-drive system and a host of AMG-specific exterior highlights to ensure they stand out in a crowd.
Each is fitted with a 375 kW/700 Nm bi-turbocharged V8, plus a standard sports exhaust system; you’re likely to hear them before you see them.
A suitably sporty interior includes Alcantara and carbon-look trim throughout, with Nappa leather upholstery completing the look.
While both derivatives cost around R2 million, the sleeker Coupe demands a R200 000 premium over is more traditional, SUV-shaped sibling.
As reported, Mercedes-Benz South Africa is optimistic about the continued success of its GLA, not least because the all-new model introduces a host of new technologies to this important segment of the new-vehicle market. Available in 200 (petrol) and 200d (turbodiesel) guises, the 2nd-generation GLA offers neater styling all round, compared with its predecessor, while its new underpinnings facilitate improved levels of versatility.
Sharing this platform, though with increased overall dimensions compared with the GLA, is the all-new GLB model, which Mercedes hopes will find favour with those seeking more rugged, purposeful styling compared with both the GLA and larger GLC executive SUV.
A spiritual successor to the GLK, the new model is offered in 250 (turbopetrol) or 220d (turbodiesel) guise, the latter with 4Matic all-wheel-drive.
6. Online orders
In an extraordinary year, during which most South Africans were asked to stay home for a protracted period, Mercedes-Benz South Africa experienced a welcome increase in online sales across its current range of vehicle offerings.
From browsing to configuration and finance options, a customer can order, make payment and receive delivery of their new Mercedes-Benz without ever having to leave home. For more information, visit the Mercedes-Benz Online Store.
