Need to service your Benz? Trust the Best

If you own a Mercedes-Benz that is no longer covered by its standard maintenance plan, the brand now offers various fixed-price servicing options at selected dealers, as well as range of genuine replacement parts and the ability to easily book your car in online.

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It’s widely known that all Mercedes-Benz passenger cars are sold, from new, with an inclusive PremiumDrive maintenance plan, which gives the brand’s customers peace of mind knowing that their vehicles will be well taken care of by qualified Mercedes-Benz technicians during the first 5 years or 100 000 km of those vehicles’ lives.

That means owners don't need to make contributions to maintenance costs during the first 100 000 km or 5 years (whichever comes first) of owning their vehicles. What's more, provided a Mercedes-Benz is maintained by a franchised (official) dealer at specific intervals, its PremiumDrive plan can be transferred between owners within that time/mileage.

A PremiumDrive plan can also be extended if desired, but you may own a recent Mercedes-Benz that is no longer covered by its maintenance plan.

If that’s the case, you might be thinking of followingm let's say “a friend’s recommendation” and, instead of booking an appointment at a Mercedes-Benz dealer, look to save money by using an independent workshop to carry out (perhaps a long-overdue) service.

The truth is, while some service centres may indeed charge less to service or repair your Mercedes-Benz than the brand’s official dealerships, are you positive that those non-affiliated workshops have the right expertise and are installing genuine parts in your vehicle? How could you be sure?

‘Trust your gut. Trust the best’

Mercedes-Benz not only strives to exceed its customers’ expectations when it comes to servicing, it prides itself on the work that goes into its products. The brand recently launched a broad customer service campaign in the hope that fastidious Mercedes-Benz owners will follow their instincts and refuse to compromise on the maintenance of their vehicles, because they know the value of excellent service and genuine parts.

Service With Certainty – fixed-price servicing

Servicing your Benz isn't necessarily that expensive anyway. Participating authorised Mercedes-Benz dealerships now offer best-price servicing packages for some models that are out of their maintenance plans (Service A or Service B inspections) from as little as R1 447, including VAT.

During Service A (regularly on the test stand), your Mercedes-Benz is thoroughly checked to ensure that you and can continue to enjoy good and secure journeys. A Service B inspection, in turn, involves putting your vehicle through its paces to check the integrity of all components that influence the safety and ease of operation of your vehicle.

The fixed-price servicing is offered on applicable derivatives of the 1st-generation A-Class hatchback (W176), CLA coupe (C117) and GLA compact crossover (X156), no fewer than 3 generations of the C-Class sedan (W204, W204 and W205), as well as the E-Class (W212).

* Offer is only valid for a limited time and while stock lasts.

See Mercedes-Benz’s current offers for fixed-price servicing

The best way to keep your Benz running in optimal condition after its maintenance plan has expired – over and above having scheduled services carried out at official dealerships – is to ensure that Mercedes Original parts are used to replace components and consumables when required.

Mercedes Original tyres

Each model in the Three-pointed Star's line-up is fitted with specific Mercedes-Benz Original (MO) tyres that offer better ride comfort, reduced road noise and satisfying performance, while approved run-flat technology provides continuous and safe driving. MO tyres, which are designed to work optimally with the suspension and handling of your specific Mercedes, are available from R850 (excl VAT).

* Offer valid whilst stocks last, for a limited time only.

Braking system

Mercedes-Benz is constantly developing and comprehensively testing its braking systems. With Mercedes-Benz brakes you can be certain that all components are perfectly matched – from brake linings and discs to brake fluid and including safety systems such as ABS, BAS and ESP. This ensures short stopping distances and prevents braking performance from fading during repeated braking.

Don’t compromise on safety, fit only Mercedes-Benz Genuine brake discs and brake pads. Offer starts at R600 (excl VAT)

* Only applicable to selected models and while stocks last.

Suspension

Whether you’re driving in a congested city centre, cornering on a mountain pass or cruising on a freeway – a Mercedes-Benz genuine suspension is designed to offer good steering characteristics, a comfortable ride and safe road-holding even when your vehicle’s heavily loaded. To guarantee this, Mercedes-Benz doesn't distinguish between manufacturing parts for standard production and as replacement parts. All suspension parts are manufactured using the same tools and quality standards.

Oil & Oil filters

The engine is the heart of your Mercedes-Benz. To keep it running optimally over the lifespan of your vehicle, all its components are perfectly matched – from spark plugs to engine air cleaner, and from fuel and oil filters to antifreeze fluid and the V-belt.

Mercedes-Benz genuine engine oil is specially developed for the brand’s engines. The fully synthetic oil facilitates optimal performance, provides reliable lubrication for every circumstance and, in combination with the Mercedes-Benz genuine oil filters, extends engine life. It also reduces consumption, to be benefit of the environment.

Windscreen wipers

Whether you’re driving in heavy rain or even soft hail – it’s not a problem with Mercedes-Benz genuine windscreen wipers. They are optimised for the entire wiper system and ensure a clear view without any streaks – even at high vehicle speeds and long periods of operation. A specially developed rubber blend makes them particularly smooth and economical. The Mercedes-Benz star on the wiper end cap distinguishes it as a genuine Mercedes-Benz part and emphasises its high quality.

Visit the Mercedes-Benz Service Hub

Would you like to arrange a service appointment with your nearest authorised Mercedes-Benz dealer? No problem. Mercedes me Online Service Appointment Booking makes it easy for you to get the appointment you want – wherever you are… and whatever time of day it is.

Book an appointment now.

The New Normal, Podcast 1 – Changes in SA’s car-shopping patterns

In this first instalment of a 3-part podcast series – brought to you in association with Absa – respected consumer journalist and veteran #CarsAwards judge Wendy Knowler chats with Naamsa CEO Mike Mabasa and Henry Botha from Absa Vehicle Finance about changes in South Africans' car-buying behaviour amid the Covid-19 pandemic and "The New Normal" as it applies to our relationship with cars.

What now for vehicle sales?

Knowler (pictured left) sets the scene for the discussion by suggesting that the Covid-19 pandemic had affected our lives – and movements – in more profound ways than any of us expected. People have adapted to teleworking, shopping locally and only making necessary trips. Many businesses are now rotating employees between the office and their homes and when their leases are up they’ll hope to scale down to smaller premises, which would suggest that "The New Normal" means less traffic on our roads…. even post-lockdown.

According to surveys recently conducted by Cars.co.za, the majority of car-buying respondents said that in the event that they were forced to decrease their motoring costs because of the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, they would consider either downgrading to a new car or disposing of a 2nd/3rd family vehicle and, if they could have anticipated the onset of the pandemic, many of them would have switched to an insurance policy that bases its premium on the number of kilometres a vehicle travels.

Suffice to say new-vehicle sales statistics for the past 6 months make for sobering reading (not unexpectedly so), but what can we glean from car-buying behaviour in 2021?

What are consumers looking for right now?

According to the CEO of the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (Naamsa), Mike Mabasa (pictured left), Naamsa has noted a definite trend towards "buying down" (consumers replacing their vehicles with smaller, more affordable ones) on the parts of many consumers, also that vehicles from mainstream (more affordable) brands are being preferred to those of premium marques… and, it would indeed seem that some households are looking to reduce the number of vehicles they operate.

How will these trends affect manufacturers and importers' plans to introduce/replace new models in the local market (and the timing of those launches)? Mabasa discusses this topic in detail – but adds that some things are not going to change, after all. He predicts an uninterrupted influx of electric vehicles in the very near future and from brands that don't currently offer hybrid or battery-electric models.

People are still looking to buy… but what?

Meanwhile, Henry Botha, the head of strategy and business analytics for Absa Vehicle Finance (pictured left), points out that amid car buyers looking to buy more affordable/moderately specified vehicles with the intention of lowering their cost of motoring (monthly repayments, fuel bills and insurance costs), they are finding great value in used vehicles that are between 1 to 2 years old, such as the many rental vehicles that have been de-fleeted because of the massive disruption that the pandemic caused in the tourism industry.

Although there is still much uncertainty on the part of car-buyers (because nobody knows how long the economic downturn will continue, even post-lockdown, and job security remains low, Botha says), now is – paradoxically – a good time to buy a car, because of particularly low interest rates and massive sales incentives offered by dealers.

Do's and don'ts of reducing motoring costs

To conclude the first podcast in the The New Normal – in association with Absa – series, Knowler asked Mabasa and Botha to suggest ways in which car-buyers/owners could maintain mobility even if their means were notably affected. Is “buying down” always the best solution to reducing the costs of motoring? And what about the notion of handing back a car to the financial institution that financed it or swopping it for a cheaper model in a bid to reduce instalments?

Are there ways in which you could keep a car going reliably for longer to effectively delay its replacement? What kind of insurance options could you consider to protect yourself in case of unforeseen expenses (such as mechanical breakdowns), if you have a repayment shortfall – or sudden loss of income?

These questions all come up in the 15-minute discussion. Have a listen.

BMW M5 Competition pricing for SA

BMW has confirmed local pricing for the updated version of its sixth-generation M5.

The iconic BMW luxury performance car is now available to local customers in M5 Competition guise. Pricing is set at R2 202 960, which is a justifiable increase over the standard M5’s R2 099 000.

Differentiating the new F90 M5 are reshaped head- and taillamps, with the latest BMW L-shaped LED illumination. Bumpers are reshaped front and rear, whilst gloss black detailing. Cabin upgrades include an inched-up infotainment display, which now measures 12.3-inches, up from 10.25-inches.

The 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine produces 460 kW and 750 Nm. As with all F90 M5s, the Competition is all-wheel-drive and capable of 0-100 kph in 3.3 seconds, with a top speed potential of 305 kph.

Although the powertrain is unchanged from the pre-upgrade car, the M5 Competition does allow for a completely disabled suite of driver assistance systems. This function is primarily targeted at owners who will use their M5 Competition for track day experiences, where the benefit of retuned dampers will come into their own.

New internals and valving profiles are part of the M5 Competition suspension upgrade. The car’s adaptive ride control sensors are also recalibrated to best integrate the new mechanical damping features, which were first seen on BMW’s M8 Competition Gran Coupe.

The improved suspension configuration also lowers the M5 Competition, compared to a conventional M5, by 7 mm. That might not sound like much, but with a car of the M5’s weight and wheelbase length, a small decrease in the centre of gravity equates to a substantial improvement in lateral agility.

BMW 5-Series Pricing in SA

BMW 520d Sedan – R932 350

BMW 530i Sedan – R934 501

BMW M550i Sedan – R1 427 339

BMW M5 – R2 099 000

BMW M5 Competition – R2 202 960

Porsche Taycan Turbo S Updated for 2021

Porsche has given its Taycan Turbo S an update. Here's what's new.

Given how quickly battery tech and software advances, it should come as no surprise that car manufacturers are rolling out updates faster than ever. First on the list of updates are more choice of colours, with eccentric names like Mahogany Metallic, Frozenberry Metallic, Cherry Metallic, Coffee Beige Metallic, Chalk, Neptune Blue and Ice Grey Metallic.

The 2021 Porsche Taycan features a new Plug & Charge function which allows for convenient charging negating the need for a card or an app. Essentially, the car talks to the charger and charging and payments happen automatically.

Porsche is also offering functions on demand, a head-up display as well as an onboard charger with a capacity of up to 22 kW. Adaptive air suspension will feature Smartlift capability in the future, which is clever as the car can be taught to raise its nose over speedbumps.

Performance fans will be delighted to hear the Turbo S is now even faster. With its launch control functionality, it bests its 0-200 kph time by 0.2 seconds, taking just 9.6 seconds to hit this figure. It also shaves a tenth of a second off its quartermile time, taking just 10.7 seconds to complete this distance.

Renault Duster TechRoad In SA (2020) Specs & Price

Renault has expanded its Duster SUV range in South Africa with the introduction of the Duster TechRoad. See what’s on offer below…

The Duster SUV has proven to be hugely popular in South Africa thanks to the combination of its rugged styling and practical interior. More than 21 000 Dusters have found a home in Mzansi since the model’s launch in 2013.

Now, Renault has introduced the Duster TechRoad to the South African market.

The Duster TechRoad can be identified by its 17-inch diamond-ct alloy wheels with blue caps, silver roof rails, front and rear skid plates and chrome trim seen on the grille. The new derivative also gains TechRoad badging, shiny black side mirrors and patterned stripping on the side doors.

The interior gains blue trim detailing seen on the seats as well as blue trim accents on the door grab handles and air vents. The central infotainment system provides integrated navigation as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality. Automatic climate control air conditioning is standard as is cruise control with a speed limiter. The Duster TechRoad is also equipped with rear park distance control and hill start assist.

The Duster TechRoad is offered in conjunction with Renault’s 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine which offers 66 kW and 210 Nm of torque when equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission in 4×2 guise. If you opt for the EDC automatic, outputs increase to 80 kW and 250 Nm.

The Duster can also be had in 4×4 guise with the 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine tuned to deliver 80 kW but with 260 Nm of torque with a 5-speed manual transmission.

A naturally-aspirated 1.6-litre petrol engine with 84 kW and 156 Nm is also available as an entry-level offering.

Renault Duster (2020) Price in South Africa

Duster 1.6 Expression 4×2 – R278 900

Duster 1.5 dCi TechRoad 4×2 – R316 900

Duster 1.5 dCi TechRoad EDC 4×2 – R350 900

Duster 1.5 dCi Dynamique 4×4 – R350 900

Duster 1.5 dCi Prestige EDC 4×2 – R363 900

The Renault Duster is sold with a 5-year/150 000 km warranty, 3-year/45 000 km service and a 6-year anti-corrosion warranty.

Buy a Renault Duster on Cars.co.za

Audi A6 40TDI S Line (2020) Review

The all-new Audi A6 executive-class sedan has finally arrived in South Africa and, while we were mostly impressed with the range's rapid S6 derivative, we were keen to sample the A6 40TDI, which represents the entry-point to the local A6 line-up – and, arguably, a better value-for-money proposition than its sibling. Does the A6 40TDI, in S Line guise, make a strong enough case for itself to warrant consideration?

We Like: Classy styling, premium interior, tech features, space, fuel efficiency, ride quality

We Don’t Like: Pricey when loaded with options

Fast Facts

Price: R919 500 (August 2020)
Engine: 2.0-litre turbodiesel
Power/Torque: 140 kW / 400 Nm
Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch
Fuel economy: 5.2 L/100km
Boot capacity: 530 litres

SERIOUS ABOUT BUYING?

Audi dealers regularly have new car specials on offer!

What is it?

The A6, in S Line guise, is elegant and stylish, especially with the larger Audi Sport alloy wheels that fill the wheel arches.

The all-new 8th-generation Audi A6, which was revealed in 2018, is now finally available in South Africa. It's the Ingolstadt-based firm’s answer to the BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class and Volvo S90 and, apart from its lavishly-styled interior (which draws inspiration from the A7), it also boasts striking kerb appeal, especially in S Line guise… as seen here, finished in Glacier White. The look is further accentuated with attractive 20-inch Audi Sport alloy wheels (R34 500) and HD Matrix LED headlights (R37 800).

In fact, this A6 is a fine example of what can be achieved if you are willing to splurge on Audi’s extensive optional equipment. Is it all worth it though? Let’s take a closer look.

How it performs in terms of…

Interior execution and features

The interior design of the A6 is elegant and modern with dual touchscreens reducing the number of physical buttons in the cabin.

Audi’s approach to interior design is distinctively minimalist; electronic screens dominate the A6's cabin, yet the newcomer arguably blends luxury and tech better than its rivals. The sweeping dashboard, which incorporates gloss-black and aluminum inserts, exudes understated elegance – it is clean, uncluttered and brimming with premium appeal.

The new dual-screen setup (equipped with MMI Navigation Plus) is a major highlight. The upper 10.1-inch screen houses all the main media functions such as infotainment, telephony, navigation, apps etc. while the lower one mostly pertains to the climate control settings (it's also where you can adjust the head-up display). The infotainment system has haptic feedback and its layout is intuitive, but the screens have a tendency to attract finger prints, so it’s advisable to keep a soft cloth handy to wipe marks away.

The test unit was specified with Audi’s Comfort Package (R30 000), which includes 4-zone climate control (rear passengers are availed a dedicated digital control panel) and heated seats, which we found particularly cosy. Other notable optional extras include a panoramic sunroof (R22 050), a Bang & Olufsen premium 3D sound system (R15 660), 360-degree cameras (R12 210; they're useful in tight parking spaces), adaptive cruise control with swerve assist and turn assist (R23 070) and a head-up display (R25 130).

Audi's Virtual Cockpit is easily configured using the mounted buttons on the steering wheel.

Audi’s digital instrument cluster (Virtual Cockpit) further adds to the premium appeal of the cabin and the layout of the display can be easily reconfigured using the mounted controls on the leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel. The perceived build quality is excellent; in fact, the A6's interior is difficult to fault in terms of fit and finish.

In terms of safety features, the A6 is equipped with no fewer than 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, brake assist and electronic stability control with traction control.

Practicality

There's more than sufficient space for rear passengers to get comfortable on those longer out-of-town journeys.

From a practicality perspective, rear passengers will enjoy ample space in terms of leg-, head- and shoulder room and the aforementioned rear climate control system allows passengers to individually adjust temperature and ventilation settings to their preference. A central armrest, which is equipped with 2 cupholders, adds further convenience.

You can also opt for the optional electrically-operated tailgate (R8 930), which provides access to a rather spacious boot that offers a claimed load capacity of 530 litres. Should you want to load longer items into the A6, the rear seats can split and fold in a 60:40 configuration, which is useful in this regard.

The A6's boot is wide and long, which provides useful space for loading luggage and other items.

The driver and front passenger have access to 2 cupholders, which are neatly located in the centre console and a (somewhat disappointingly shallow) central bin, which can be used to store valuables out of sight or to charge/connect your smartphone via a pair of USB ports. Audi has also availed slots for a SIM card and an SD card.

Overall, the A6 offers a suitably practical interior that is well-equipped to deliver pleasing levels of luxury and comfort for both the driver and passengers.

Performance and efficiency

Fuel efficiency is a major strength of this A6 40TDI, with a theoretical full-tank range of about 1 000 km!

Whereas a 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 petrol engine does duty in the range-topping S6, the 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine under the bonnet of the 40TDI S Line (mated with a 7-speed speed dual-clutch transmission) is the entry-level engine in the A6 range. However, buyers can also opt for the more powerful 3.0-litre turbodiesel in the 45TDI quattro.

With peak outputs of 140 kW and 400 Nm, the 4-cylinder motor provides more than enough grunt to move the A6 along at a fair pace, but its performance is workmanlike – as opposed to spirited. Compared with its rivals from BMW and Mercedes-Benz, this A6 posts the slowest 0-to-100 kph sprint time of 8.4 seconds, but its strengths lie elsewhere…

The manner in which this engine performs is another highlight. The engine and transmission are a near-perfect match, resulting in a well-balanced driving experience. Engine noise is well-subdued and this A6 gathers its pace in a smooth and refined fashion; the transmission shifts almost imperceptibly. There’s enough shove to overtake comfortably on the highway too – you never really need to thrash the engine to get the most out of it; the 40TDI simply gets on with it.

If you want punchier performance, you can, of course, engage manual shifts using the mounted paddles on the steering wheel. Using the drive select button, you can switch between the Comfort, Auto and Sport modes, or, if you so choose, personalise the drivetrain and steering settings to your preference in Individual mode.

Moreover, this engine is particularly efficient. While Audi claims an average consumption of 5.2 L/100 km, we saw an indicated figure of 7.2 L/100 km and believe lower returns could be achieved if you drive with a measured approach. It also means that you could cross vast tracts of the earth on a single tank (the theoretical range is about 1 000 km).

Ride & handling

Despite featuring a sport suspension, ride quality in the A6 is admirable.

Over and above its refined powertrain, the 40TDI impressed with its supreme ride comfort. In S Line guise, the 40TDI is equipped with a "sports suspension", but despite its nomenclature, the damping was not as firm as we expected. If anything, the A6's suspension proved rather forgiving of poorer road surfaces. Overall, we were impressed with the high levels of ride comfort the 40TDI delivered, even when operated in its Sport drive mode. Poor surfaces fail to unsettle the ride and the A6 glides along effortlessly.

The steering is relatively sharp and well-weighted, which engenders confidence in the Audi's cornering ability. If you regularly cover long distances, the A6 would be a perfect companion. The ride quality may even be best-in-class, but we will have to reserve final judgement until we are able to test the A6 against its rivals in a back-to-back test.

Price and warranty

The Audi A6 40TDI S Line is priced from R919 500 and is sold with a 1-year/unlimited km warranty and a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan.

View specification details for the Audi A6 40 TDI S Line

Verdict

The A6 gets so much right and depending on your tastes, it's well worth considering.

There is so much to like about this A6 40TDI and, in S Line trim, it certainly looks the part. Equipped with the best in-car technology that Audi has to offer, the A6 is transformed into a classy tar-munching machine with all the comfort and entertainment features you could want from a car in this class, provided that you are prepared to pay for them…

Prospective buyers who want a heartier diesel engine may want to consider the A6 45 TDI quattro (it offers 183 kW and 600 Nm), but this 40 TDI derivative hardly lacks in terms of performance; it’s very much on par with its equivalent rivals. In fact, we think this A6 strikes a convincing balance between performance and fuel economy.

With a starting price of R919 500, the A6 40 TDI S Line undercuts rivalling products from BMW and Mercedes-Benz and is competitive in terms of its standard specification as well. You will, in all likelihood, be ticking off a few options and we advise that you do this with the utmost of care. Our test unit was heavily loaded with optional features that amounted to nearly R260 000 over and above the initial asking price, bringing the total price to almost R1 180 000.

Current trends indicate that buyers are increasingly favouring SUVs over sedans in the premium segment and the executive-class sedan market is, therefore, contracting in accordance with this shift in demand. Nonetheless, if you are in the market for an executive-class sedan, of which the well-balanced and eminently tasteful (if very understated) A6 is a shining example, then the 40TDI S Line is right up there with the best of them. You would be doing yourself a disservice by not having it on your shopping shortlist.

Buy a new or used Audi A6 on Cars.co.za

Watch our video review of the Audi S6 below!

Spy Shots: 2021 Volkswagen Golf 8R Wagon

Volkswagen is putting the finishing touches on its Golf 8 family. We've seen most of range already, but this new Golf 8 R station wagon caught our photographer's eye.

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

It's good to see the station wagon is not yet dead. BMW confirmed it would be making a Touring version of its soon-to-be-revealed M3 and it looks like Volkswagen will making an R version of its Golf 8 station wagon. Volkswagen has tried to hide its new Golf 8 R Variant in the Alltrack body, but we can see the blue brakes and quad exhausts – signs this is an R.

Volkswagen calls its station wagons Variant and much like the 8 R hatchback, will come to market with all-wheel drive, a quick-shifting dual-clutch gearbox as well as an enhanced version of the 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder motor. While official outputs are yet to be confirmed, some leaks have suggested as much as 245 kW of power will be on offer. Expect 0-100 kph in about 4.5 seconds.

Typically station wagons do not make their way to our market, as customers prefer SUVs or conventional hatchbacks, so it's unlikely the Volkswagen Golf 8 R Variant will be seen in South African showrooms.

There's no mistaking those big wheels, quad exhausts and blue brakes for anything other than an R

Hyundai Creta (2020) International Launch Review

The Indian-made Creta spearheaded Hyundai's arrival in the South African compact family-car segment in 2017 and, by virtue of being one of the Korean brand's top-selling models, the crossover's popularity has arguably come at the cost of sedan sales (in particular). Our Indian correspondent, Paranjay Dutt, recently got to grips with the 2nd-generation Creta, which will be arriving in South Africa soon.

Did you know that, in India, Hyundai sold no fewer than 500 000 units of the 1st-generation Creta in the past 5 years? The Creta’s popularity has affected the hatchback-based compact SUV/crossover segment positively (since 2017, it's been joined by its Kona and Venue siblings here in South Africa), while, at the same time, luring customers away from sedans and larger family cars. Ahead of the 2nd-generation Creta’s arrival in Mzansi, we thought it’d be a good idea to give you a taster of what Hyundai has in store.

In its latest guise, the Creta has certainly shed its safe/unchallenging styling cues. The moment you lay your eyes on one, you’re bound to either like it (for its distinctive looks) or hate it (let’s be honest, is does not possess a conventionally beautiful face or rear). However, regardless of what you think, it can’t be denied that the Creta now looks more assertive. Its feature list has grown too, but most importantly, it comes with a new range of engine and gearbox choices. In short, the update has broadened the Creta’s appeal and, surprisingly, more focused as well. The 1st-generation model more than succeeded in breaking new ground for the brand; the new Creta is ready for a new challenge.

The Exterior

The Certa's rear styling is now more polarising to look at than the previous version's.

The biggest challenge for the new Hyundai Creta comes from within – in the form of its overall design. I say "challenge" because this is far from the most universally pleasing exterior execution you’re bound to see. At the front, it’s as if the Creta was styled to be a smaller version of the Hyundai Palisade (Hyundai’s extra-large SUV, which is available in selected markets only). The fascia arrangement is such that the headlamps are positioned unusually low (effectively half-way down the height of the car's nose, much like on the Nissan Juke), while the daytime running LEDs sit where most would expect the main lenses to be. The fog lamps, meanwhile, are placed with the indicators in the bumper.

That the front takes some time getting used is an understatement, but it’s also safe to say the Creta looks much better in the metal (especially from the rear, which in photos, looks, um, awkward). In reality, it’s thankfully far from that. For the India-spec car, you get LED tail-lamp clusters and an extra brake light mounted below the rear windscreen. The dual-tone bumper does its job in reducing the visual monotony and, as is the case at the front, the bumper-mounted lamps are still a touch too low… or is it just me?

What’s cooking inside?

The interior marks a major step-up and features a much more advanced infotainment system.

On the inside, the Creta continues with Hyundai’s tradition of offering fairly feature-rich cabins. The interior build quality is fair, but it makes up for that with a large panoramic sunroof and clean dashboard design. The onboard infotainment system comes with a 10.2-inch touchscreen (that conventionally sits under the new rectangular vents) and an 8-speaker setup by Bose. It won’t transform your in-car audio experience like, say, the Bowers & Wilkins in a Volvo, but it does sound better than most other factory-spec systems.

In addition to that, Hyundai also offers its suite of connected-car features. The suite is most likely market-dependent, but it does have some nifty features such as remote start, one-button call to emergency- and towing services, and the ability to cool the cabin even before you step inside the vehicle. Plus, if you fancy opening the large sunroof with a voice command, well, the Creta will happily oblige. For a vehicle in this segment, it’s hardly a surprise that also you get features such as a wireless-charging pad, ventilated seats, and so forth. Compared with the model it replaces, the Creta has grown marginally – in length, width, and wheelbase. The latter makes the cabin slightly more spacious.

What's it like to drive?

Based on the Kia Seltos platform, the Creta is now slightly larger in all directions compared with its predecessor.

Like the outgoing version, the Creta feels like a well-engineered compact family car. Its powertrain is not the most eager I've experienced, but it rides fairly well on most surfaces. It's particularly comfortable on tarmac and slightly less composed on uneven road surfaces, but, as long as you’re on the road, the Creta is pretty much at home.

The steering is quick and light, so the newcomer takes urban commuting and executing parking manoeuvres in tight spaces well in its stride. Out on the motorways, the Creta stays well-mannered. It’s not the most engaging or communicative driving experience, but if you do a lot of trips and happen to encounter long, sweeping corners along your routes, the Creta won’t disappoint. Sudden direction changes aren’t going to be fun, though, as the Creta is far from the perfect vehicle to hustle along a mountain pass…

Hyundai South Africa will likely announce the final engine line-up closer to the launch fo the model (in October); in India, the new range comprises a choice of 3 powerplants. There’s a naturally aspirated 85 kW 1.5-litre petrol unit, which is available in conjunction with either a manual or an optional CVT auto 'box. The one we have on test here is equipped with an 85 kW 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine (available in combination with either a six-speed manual – as seen here – or a conventional automatic). The third engine is a 1.4-litre turbopetrol unit, which is the most powerful of the trio (with peak outputs of 103 kW and 242 Nm) and mated exclusively with a dual-clutch automatic transmission.

The diesel version was the model to have in the previous version, the new diesel is smaller and has slightly less torque.

The 1.5-litre turbodiesel is noticeably quieter than before, although, on the downside, it feels a trifle low on gusto compared with the outgoing 1.6-litre mill. A quick look at the spec sheets does present that it’s down by about 10 kW and 10 Nm. But, like most new turbocharged diesels, it’s bound to be a happy companion on long trips. The manual gearbox is easy to use, and while the annoyingly placed armrest can be intrusive when shifting to 2nd from 1st, the engine’s ability to pull in almost any gear is notable.

Like the underlying platform and the other engines in the Creta's line-up, the 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol is also shared with the Kia Seltos. And the range-topping motor is easily the one you’d pick if you want your Creta to be fun-to-drive. It’s got solid mid-range punch – it's tractable enough to make the Creta 1.4 Turbo an eager little runabout!

Final thoughts

The Creta is much-improved in all departments, this bodes well considering how popular the previous model was in SA.

The sales stats don't lie – compact crossovers are wildly popular in the new-vehicle market. However, there always seems to be some sort of downside to them. Consider the new Creta, for example. It does everything well, but not anything that a similarly-sized hatchback can’t. Plus, while the idea of having larger wheels and a bigger glasshouse makes the Creta an appealing choice for those looking for a practically compact car with a (slightly) raised driving position, bear in mind there’s no all-wheel-drive option.

Which puts me on the spot, because, on the one hand, the Creta is just another crossover, but then again, it’s a really good one. And once you live with it, you're bound to appreciate it for the overall ease of use rather than its idiosyncrasies. Its engine isn't punchy, but sufficiently tractable, and the slightly raised ride height is handy when you're looking for a parking spot at your local park run. It’s familiar and makes you feel instantly at home. That’s astonishing for a new car, but then the Creta's always been like that.

Hottest BMW M2 CS by Dahler

Swiss tuner Dahler has dialled the BMW M2 CS up to 11 with its insane package.

The BMW M2 CS is one of the German brand's most potent little toys and with the SA allocation due towards the end of 2020, it should come as no surprise that demand far exceeds supply.

What's not to like? The engine is the long-serving S55 unit used by standard versions of the old M3 and the M4, but with a newly designed exhaust system. The twin-turbo 3.0-litre inline-6 delivers 331 kW at 6 250 rpm and 550 Nm of torque, and it'll attack corners with enthusiasm.

What if you wanted more? Swiss tuner Dahler has works some magic for the BMW M2 CS. There are 2 packages available, with the first being a 382 kW and 700 Nm conversion, which also includes a top speed of 302 kph. Impressively, this is WLTP-tested and the car is Euro6d-homologated.

The second package breaks the compliance laws and packs a 405 kW / 740 Nm punch. Due to it not complying with emissions laws, it can't be sold in Europe.

The BMW M2 CS by Dahler features an Eventuri carbon intake system, 4-pipe stainless steel exhaust, sports suspension kit while the visual appeal is enhanced by 20-inch ultralight forged wheel wrapped in Michelins. Inside, the car features a roll bar and racing seats.

The Cars.co.za Podcast, Ep 2 – Porsche GT3 RS review, SA car price increases, 7-seater Buying Advice

Welcome to an all-new type of content from Cars.co.za, our podcast! This, however, is a podcast with a difference, as you get to watch us in-studio as well as listen to our pearls of wisdom.

We've spent a little while building a custom podcast studio in our office and we'll be bringing you weekly episodes featuring journalists from Cars.co.za, motoring industry personalities, racing drivers, car builders and just about anyone we think you'd be interested in hearing from.

Watch episode 1 here: https://youtu.be/AFpbr4jgs_c

In this episode, motoring Oracle Hannes Oosthuizen joins Ciro for a chat and quick game of 80s Trump cards.

Buy our model cars and completely unique 80s Trump cards here: www.sentimetal.shop

Porsche GT3 RS review coming soon!

Use our compare tool here: www.cars.co.za/compare-cars

Watch our Honda BR-V review here: https://youtu.be/BY7X23hGGts

Watch our Toyota Rush review here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2lcQNYock8U

Need to service your Benz? Trust the Best

If you own a Mercedes-Benz that is no longer covered by its standard maintenance plan, the brand now offers various fixed-price servicing options at selected dealers, as well as range of genuine replacement parts and the ability to easily book your car in online.

‘Trust your gut. Trust the best’

Service With Certainty – fixed-price servicing

See Mercedes-Benz’s current offers for fixed-price servicing

Visit the Mercedes-Benz Service Hub

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Welcome to an all-new type of content from Cars.co.za, our podcast! This, however, is a podcast with a difference, as you get to watch us in-studio as well as listen to our pearls of wisdom.