Martini Racing 911 Carrera RSR tribute: Classic Drive

The Martini Racing Carrera RSR 2.1 Turbo boasted the largest wing and widest hips of any Porsche 911 when it was raced back in the early 1970s. We experience what it must have been like to drive by getting behind the ‘wheel of a local tribute car.

IMAGES: Duwyne Aspeling

I’m ensconced in the Martini Racing 911 Carrera RSR 2.1 Turbo tribute car’s Racetech racing seat with my legs almost parallel to the floor. I can hear road debris hitting the car’s undercarriage and I have to shout to talk to my passenger, the owner of the car. I’m intimidated, but immensely excited nonetheless.

In front of me is a plastic windscreen (a weight-saving measure), while the cabin is stripped out with only the necessary buttons and switches you associate with a race car. Above the windscreen, down the A-pillar and to my right, the silver tubes of the full roll cage leave no doubt that this is a pukka 911 race car.

With a quick glance in the rear-view mirror – as I won’t need it again on this drive! – I observe one of the largest wings in Porsche’s racing history. As I peer into the side view mirrors, the massive, widened rear arches and end tips of the rear wing come into view.

This car fills the road with its size and presence unlike any air-cooled Porsche 911 I’ve ever driven. I need to feed in enough throttle to stop the car from stalling but also let the racing clutch out as quickly as possible because any unnecessary slippage will damage it.

Driving the ‘Martini Racing 911 Carrera RSR’

The steering wheel conveys oodles of feedback; it goes light for only a brief moment before it stiffens up again and gives your arms a proper workout.

The Martini Racing 911 RSR tribute car’s G50 gearbox allows for quick and direct shifts, while the long metal gear lever and gear knob (with the very industrial-looking linkage system below) contributes to the solid shift action every time I change gear; it helps to ensure that you never miss a gear when shifting.

Martini Racing Porsche 911 Carrera RSR tribute car cockpit

The Martini Racing 911 RSR tribute car is not happy when driven at anything less than full speed. There is a cacophony of mechanical sounds that emanates from the drivetrain in the rear of the car, while the smallest of throttle applications prompt a blowing and hissing sound from the turbocharged system.

If I briefly close my eyes, the experience is not far removed from that of the 993 GT2 Clubsport I experienced a couple of years ago. These mechanical sounds are so intense, that you also want to pull over and switch off the car, because it almost sounds as if there is no lubricant in the transmission!

Martini Racing Porsche 911 Carrera RSR tribute car intercooler

As I press the accelerator pedal harder, and following a minor delay as the turbo gets up to speed, the Martini Racing 911 Carrera RSR tribute car positively surges towards the next corner with a rush of a modern-day supercar, only with much more noise, feedback and excitement.

Through the steering wheel, it is easy to experience how the front wheels sniff out any changes in the road camber and dive into bends like only a race car can. I realise that you need all your mental focus (and rather talented feet and hands) to get the most from this car.

Martini Racing Porsche 911 Carrera RSR tribute car fuel tank

Below 3 000 rpm nothing happens, but as I press on I can hear – and feel – how the tyres barely cope with the levels of torque, which are twisted through them as the full force of the engine presents itself with astonishing efficiency. It is a unique physiological experience; it feels as if the push is coming not only from behind you, but as if you are being shoved by something through your lower back.

And, it feels as if every ounce of the power and torque is on tap… if not more. Here, on this mountain pass, this Martini Racing 911 Carrera RSR tribute car feels like it will obliterate anything before it. Maybe it is a good thing that there are almost no other vehicles on this road.

Martini Racing Porsche 911 Carrera RSR tribute car Hoosier race tyres

On a public road, rolling on wet-weather racing tyres no less, full-bore acceleration upon corner exits is not on the cards, but between my time behind the ‘wheel as well as during a stint in the passenger seat while the owner, who races this car, was at the wheel, one thing became abundantly clear – this car is best-suited to the track!

History of this ‘Martini Racing 911 RSR’

However, this car’s origin is the same as all other 911 T production cars that left the factory in 1972. It rolled off the assembly line as a standard production car, but 45 years on, it is racing in South Africa.

Apart from the significant development process of this car – which we’ll get to in a minute – this Porsche 911 has been road-registered every year since 1972.

Martini Racing Porsche 911 Carrera RSR tribute car elaborate rear wing

This car was already built (at great expense and with much effort) into a race car by one of the previous owners. At the time when we drove the car, the owner had bought the Martini Racing 911 Carrera RSR tribute car a few years before from a fellow 911 racer and enthusiast. Following his purchase, he competed in races occasionally but realised that a full rebuild of the car was required.

The result was that the car underwent a nearly 2-year restoration. It was stripped, the wiring was redone, the chassis was straightened up and the entire car was repainted. Then, the engine was taken out, stripped and rebuilt, and the cooling system was upgraded, to name just a few of the alterations. The engine was originally a 3.6-litre flat-6 engine from a 964-series 911 Carrera, which was turbocharged.

Martini Racing Porsche 911 Carrera RSR tribute car NACA duct

The owner explains: “I’ve campaigned it in this state, but then rebuilt it and enlarged the engine capacity to 3.8 litres. Other upgrades included race bearings, bespoke camshafts and a rebuilt turbo. The engine was converted to a turbocharged unit in Germany, where it also received special heads and porting.

“We redesigned the entire oil-cooling system. I didn’t like the number of oil pipes and reservoirs that were scattered all over the car and they also contributed to the heat soak in the cabin. So, we took some inspiration from older Cup cars and mounted the oil tank between the engine and gearbox.

The boost pressure for the turbo has been set at 0.8 bar. We also rebuilt or recommissioned every moving part, which came from Porsche, on the car. We’ve tried to keep the ‘RSR’ as original as possible.

Martini Racing Porsche 911 Carrera RSR tribute car in early morning traffic

After the rebuild, a dyno test revealed (very) impressive peak outputs of 413 kW and 680 N of torque. Let’s not forget, this power is delivered in a car that weighs a mere 1 250 kg.”

“It is, as a matter of fact, a little heavier than it should be, but you have to realise that a tremendous amount of strengthening has gone into the structure of the car,” he adds.

This is visible everywhere. Not only in the cabin, but below the bonnet there is a complete cross-strut bar, adding even more rigidity to the front of the chassis.

Martini Racing Porsche 911 Carrera RSR tribute car steering wheel and instrumentation

Specifications:

Model: 1972 Porsche 911T (base car)
Engine: 3.8-litres, flat-6, turbocharged
Power: 413 kW
Torque: 680 Nm
Transmission: G50, 5-speed manual, RWD
Suspension front: MacPherson struts, Coil springs, Sachs shocks, anti-roll bars
Rear: Swing arms, coil springs, Sachs shocks, anti-roll bars
Wheels & tyres: 23.7×11.5-16 Hoosier (front) 27.0×14.0-16 Hoosier (rear)
Weight: 1 250 kg
0-100 km/h: <3.5 sec (estimated)
Top Speed: >270 kph (estimated)

Equipment

Martini Racing Porsche 911 Carrera RSR tribute car – tracking shot

The cabin is completely stripped and the only obvious modern equipment is the Motec digital screen. This small, but informative, screen displays the air temperature, fuel pressure, engine oil pressure, oil temperature, GPS speed and selected gear – pretty much all the necessary data and figures a racer would require pre-, during and post-race.

The revs are indicated by digital bars running at the top of the screen. There is the compulsory “ignition cut” switch, as well as brake bias and turbo-boost controller switches. The boost gauge is also visible, while the fire extinguishing system can be activated by the pull of a lever – it is an important function when you are strapped in with a 5-point harness and need to climb over so many pipes!

Martini Racing Porsche 911 Carrera RSR tribute car – rear three-quarter view

The NACA ducts are pure race car cues and that large rear wing is adjustable. As much as the rear wheel arches grab your attention, the same is true for those widened front arches.

It was the earlier owner who made the effort to build this race car and, in the early 2000s, started the long development process of converting his 911T into a race car. He started by installing lightweight parts, widening the body and the axle tracks, putting in a new floor etc.

The car was mostly developed on the Zwartkops racing circuit outside Pretoria.

Martini Racing Porsche 911 Carrera RSR tribute car – front three-quarter view

“Racing is also something I was interested in, and over the years, through my participation in a few events and with the help of the previous owner of this car, I gained more experience. This is not the first Porsche race car I’ve owned,” the owner adds.

“Previously I’ve owned a 996 GT3 Cup car. I campaigned that for just over a year. We even did the 6-hour endurance race at Phakisa Freeway in the Free State, in which we came 2nd. When I sold that Cup car, I bought this car. Being a turbo, I like it a lot.”

Summary

It might be a bit of a novelty that this tribute car is still road-registered, but long may it continue. It is, without a doubt, one of the most exhilarating 911s I’ve ever had the chance to drive on the road. This homage to the Martini Racing 911 Carrera RSR 2.1 Turbo is a well-developed race car that pays tribute to the original, a car that formed the foundation of so many Porsche road- and race cars since the 1970s…

Find a new or used Porsche 911 listed for sale on Cars.co.za

Find exclusive car-themed merchandise at the SentiMETAL Shop

2nd-Gen BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe Announced

The new-generation BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe offers a bit more space and receives more powerful engines. Here’s your first look.

Following on from the new-generation 1 Series hatchback comes the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe and while we’re yet to receive confirmation from BMW SA, it would be a surprise if this model wasn’t earmarked for our market.

It may be tagged as a new-generation model, but in reality, the previous-gen platform has been retained, albeit with some enhancements. BMW’s design team has created something interesting, and these pictures show a sportily-styled sedan, and we’ll pass a verdict when we see the vehicle in the metal. For what it’s worth, we think its a mature design, but you can add trinkets like vibrant paint and an illuminated grille if you’d like to stand out a bit more.

The vehicle has grown in size, with a 20 mm increase in overall length, taking it up to 4 546 mm. Height has increased by 25 mm, which means a bit more headroom, although wheelbase and width remain the same as the outgoing model. It’s interesting to note the badging has changed, with ‘i’ falling away. So you’ll get 218 and M235 as the official names.

There’s more power on offer and the 8-speed automatic gearbox has been replaced by a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. The SA lineup is yet to be confirmed, but for now, the international powertrain lineup is as follows; 218 with 115 kW/230 Nm from a 1.5-litre turbocharged 3-cylinder (up from 103 kW and 220 Nm) and M235 with 233 kW/400 Nm (225 kW/450 Nm previously). The 218 is front-wheel driven, while the baby M model used xDrive all-wheel drive and will be the quicker of the two, with a 4.9 second sprint to 100 kph. It appears the adaptive M suspension is standard across the range.

The cabin has been enhanced and BMW says the new Gran Coupe will come highly specced. That means 12-speaker Harmon Kardon audio, cloud-based navigation, keyless entry, wireless charging pad and so on will not be optional. Inside, the car gets a 10.25-inch screen that serves as the instrument cluster and a 10.7-inch infotainment screen, neatly packaged as the Curve Display. It runs iDrive 9 software and features over-the-air update capability.

Will the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe come to South Africa?

Right now, we’re awaiting comment from BMW SA and like we said earlier, we’d be surprised if this model is not available in our market. We expect the lineup to stay much the same, with 218 and M235.

The latest BMW specifications and pricing

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2025 Mini Cooper Convertible Revealed

The convertible derivative of the Mini Cooper has just been revealed and it’s confirmed for South Africa. Here’s your first look.

The 2025 Mini Cooper Convertible will be available in both C and S derivatives and that means turbocharged petrol power.

Interestingly, the three-cylinder motor is not available and Mini has gone for the 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol instead, with a choice of two outputs; 120 kW / 250 Nm and 150 kW / 300 Nm. Both erivatives feature front-wheel drive and automatic gearboxes. The C is said to dash to 100 kph in just 8.2 seconds, with the S being the more performance biased and it’ll hit 100 kph in 6.9 seconds.

Fans of the open-top lifestyle will be interested to learn that the new Mini Cooper Convertible’s roof mechanism opens automatically in just 18 seconds. You don’t have to deploy the roof fully either and you can partially open it, like a sunroof. Once retracted, the canvas roof disappears behind the rear seats and stowed in the luggage compartment. If the weather suddenly takes a turn for the worst, the soft top be fully retracted at speeds of up to 30 kph.

We’ve always seen Mini Coopers as compact cars, with the second row of seats offering just enough space for children, but the brand is claiming the new product is a four-seater. We’ve already spent some time with the latest-generation infotainment system from Mini and this new OLED screen is impressive. For the Mini Cooper Convertible there’s a cute timer that records how long the roof has been down, which is clever. How often do you see convertibles with the roof down? Perhaps if customers were timed, they’d drop the roof more often.

When will the 2025 Mini Cooper Convertible come to SA?

BMW Group South Africa confirmed the new Convertible derivative of the new Mini Cooper will be touching down from the first quarter of 2025. Pricing and location specifications will be made available closer to launch date.

Want to buy a new or used Mini Cooper? Browse vehicles for sale

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Selling Your Car in South Africa – Everything You Need to Know

There can be a lot of stress involved in selling your car. Finding the right buyer, setting a fair price, and wading through all that paperwork can induce a migraine! Without proper guidance, you risk underselling your vehicle or facing frustrating delays in finalising the sale. Or worse – there are a lot of sharks out there ready to take advantage of unwary sellers.

But it doesn’t have to be this way!

If you’re wondering, “How can I safely sell my car in South Africa?” then read on. By following a few simple steps, you can confidently sell your vehicle and turn what seems like a challenging process into a smooth and successful experience.

We’ll explain everything you need to know, ensuring you’re well-prepared to sell your car easily.

1: Decide How to Sell Your Car

Before starting the selling process, you first need to decide how you plan to sell your car. In South Africa, you typically have two main options:

Selling your car privately
Selling to a dealership

Each option has its pros and cons, so it’s important to choose the one that best suits your needs.

Selling Your Car Privately

When you sell your car privately, you have more control over the price and negotiation process. This option can potentially get you the best price, but it also requires more effort. You’ll need to advertise, meet with potential buyers, and handle all paperwork. Online social platforms are popular for private sales, but always be cautious of scammers.

Pros of Selling Privately:

You could achieve a better price than on trade-in..
Control over price negotiations.

Cons of Selling Privately:

Time-consuming.
Advertising your vehicle may incur a cost.
Potential security risks when meeting with buyers.

Selling Your Car to a Dealership

If you’re short on time or want a hassle-free process, selling your car to a dealership or a car-buying service is a convenient option. You’ll receive an instant offer and avoid the paperwork hassle. The downside is that you might not get as high a price as you would in a private sale.

Pros of Selling to a (Reputable) Dealership:

Quick and convenient.
No advertising or meeting with potential buyers is required.
Money clears quickly and safely.

Cons of Selling to a Dealership:

Lower offer compared to private sale.
Limited negotiation power.
Your car may not be in demand, making it hard to find a dealership offering to buy it.

Whether you choose to sell privately or to a dealership, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons based on your situation and needs.

2: Preparing Your Car for Sale

Once you’ve decided how you’re going to sell your second-hand car, it’s time to prepare the vehicle itself. First impressions matter, so ensuring that your car is in top condition will increase your chances of a successful sale.

Clean and Repair Your Car

A clean, well-maintained car is more likely to sell quickly and at a better price. Take the time to wash and wax the exterior, vacuum and clean the interior, and fix any small issues like scratches or dents. If the car needs any significant repairs, it may be worth addressing them before listing it.

Gather Documentation

To sell your car in South Africa, you need to complete several essential forms and gather specific documents to ensure a smooth transaction. Here’s a comprehensive overview:

Required Documents

Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC1): This document proves your ownership of the vehicle and includes details such as the make, model, year, and VIN (Vehicle Identification Number).
Roadworthy Certificate: A current roadworthy certificate is mandatory when selling a vehicle. It confirms that the car is safe and suitable for use on public roads, issued after an inspection by an accredited testing station.
Proof of Identity: You must provide valid identification, such as a South African ID, passport, or driver’s license, to verify your identity as the seller.
Notification of Change of Ownership (NCO) Form: To officially transfer ownership of the vehicle, both the seller and buyer must complete this form and submit it to the Department of Transport.
Application for Registration and Licensing of Motor Vehicle (RLV): While not always mandatory for private sales, this form assists the new owner in registering the vehicle in their name.
Finance Settlement Letter: If the vehicle has any outstanding finance, you will need a letter from your financial institution confirming that the debt has been settled or detailing any remaining balance.
Service History (optional but recommended): Providing a detailed service history can add value to your car and reassure potential buyers about its maintenance.
Sales Agreement: Although not legally required, drafting a written sales agreement that outlines the terms of the sale can help prevent misunderstandings later on.

3: Pricing Your Car

Determining the right price is one of the most critical aspects of selling your car. Overpricing can deter buyers, while underpricing means losing out on potential profits. So, how do you strike the perfect balance?

Research Similar Cars

Start by researching the current market. Look at similar cars for sale in your area to understand what other private sellers are asking for similar vehicles. Factors like mileage, condition, and the car’s age will affect its value. You can demand a premium if your car is considered rare and/or collectable, but if you ask the same (or higher) price as a dealer would, prospective buyers may prefer to buy a similar car from someone else!

Cars.co.za offers access to thousands of used cars for sale, allowing you to make the most accurate comparisons.

Be Prepared to Negotiate

When you list your car, it’s common to leave some room for negotiation. Set your price slightly higher than your bottom line so that you can comfortably negotiate with potential buyers.

4: Advertising Your Car

Now that your car is ready and priced, it’s time to advertise. The way you market your car will determine how quickly it sells.

Write a Detailed Description

When listing your car, provide as much information as possible. Include the car’s make, model, year, mileage, and any optional features or upgrades it has. Being honest about defects or issues will help build trust with potential buyers. Look at the most compelling ads you’ve seen and note the details they’ve included.

Take High-Quality Photos

Photos are critical when advertising your car. Potential buyers want to see what they’re getting, so take clear, high-quality images of the vehicle’s exterior and interior. Showcase any unique features or upgrades to make your car stand out.

5: Meeting Potential Buyers

If you’re selling your car privately, you’ll need to meet with potential buyers for test drives and negotiations. Here are some tips to ensure these meetings go smoothly:

Meet in a public place: For safety, always meet potential buyers in a well-lit, public location. Let a friend or relative know where you will be and whom you will be meeting.
Have all paperwork ready: Bring copies of the car’s registration, service history, and other relevant documents.
Be ready to negotiate: Stay firm on your price, but be willing to negotiate within reason.

6: Completing the Sale

Once you’ve found a buyer, it’s time to close the deal. Ensure all necessary paperwork is completed and signed, including a formal sales agreement.

If the buyer is paying for the vehicle by depositing money in your bank account by an electronic fund transfer (EFT), provide them with a formal sales agreement immediately, but wait for that sum to reflect as a credit in the account before handing over the vehicle and other paperwork.

A bank-guaranteed cheque for the purchase price is also an acceptable means of payment and,if the buyer is paying in cash, double-check the money before handing over the car.

If you’ve sold to a dealership, they will typically handle most of the paperwork for you, simplifying the process.

Accepting Cash?

If you’re planning to sell your car for cash, you must be aware of several potential pitfalls.

First, large cash transactions over R25,000 must be reported to the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) to comply with anti-money laundering regulations, which can create additional paperwork and scrutiny.
Additionally, accepting cash can expose you to risks such as counterfeit notes; always verify the authenticity of the money.
There’s also the possibility of buyer scams or disputes arising after the sale, as cash transactions can lack formal documentation.

To mitigate these risks, consider using a secure payment method or conducting the transaction in a safe environment, such as a bank, where funds can be verified immediately. Always ensure that you have a proper sales agreement and that the vehicle registration is transferred correctly to avoid future liabilities.

Final Thoughts: Where to List Your Car

“I want to sell my car!”

That’s great -and if you’re ready to go, consider listing it on a trusted platform like Cars.co.za. We provide a simple, secure way to list your car and connect with potential buyers. Plus, we offer services to help you evaluate your car’s worth and streamline the selling process.

Simplifying the Car Selling Process in South Africa

Follow these simple steps to take the stress out of selling your car. Remember, setting a fair price, advertising effectively, and ensuring the car is in great condition will boost your chances of a quick and profitable sale.

You can also explore our blog for more helpful consumer information on buying and selling cars in South Africa.

Read more about trading in your car here.

Omoda C9 (2024) Launch Review

The Omoda C9 is not just another generously specced Chinese-made medium SUV to join the South African market. It’s a disruptor that competes at the top end of SA’s family car- and German premium brand-dominated executive SUV segments.

It is starting to feel a bit like “rinse and repeat” when it comes to new Chinese car products entering the South African market (the most recent ones you may recall are the GAC GS3 Emzoom and Emkoo), but with its C9 flagship, Omoda hopes to challenge even European premium marques, so it’s a huge deal!

Okay, it’s not unusual for brands to claim they are playing in the premium space when in reality, they’re just indulging in a bit of marketing speak. But Omoda is, in fact, the premium arm of Chery’s O&J division (in case you haven’t worked it out already, the J stands for Jaecoo). And, having arrived at the C9 launch in a Mercedes-Benz, I was interested to see how it would compare with a fellow premium contender.

It feels effortlessly luxurious…

It shouldn’t still come as a surprise, but this midsized crossover coupe (or executive SUV coupe, if you prefer) seems as luxurious and premium as a comparable model from any of our market’s legacy brands.

Several Chinese marques are “nailing the brief” with the look and feel of their new vehicles, not to mention all the tech they cram into the models (at their various price points). Indeed, it is becoming the norm to feel as comfortable and pampered in a Chinese car as you would in say, a German one. This is certainly not something we would have said 5 years ago – to be fair, Omoda was only founded in 2022.

Inspired by the Range Rover Velar…

The reason could be that Omoda has taken inspiration from the brands that inspire – or, in this case, are tied in with – it. You will certainly spot elements of the Range Rover Velar in the C9. Omoda is happy to admit the C9’s styling cues were inspired by the Velar… and its flush door handles are very à la JLR.

The Omoda C9 has plenty of kerb presence, even when clad in Moonlight White, and there are 3 other colours to choose from: Meteorite Grey, Quantum Grey, and my personal favourite, Cosmic Black.

And, because signature lighting is all the rage, the C9 boasts automatic LED headlamps, LED daytime running lights and LED taillights. The AWD derivative furthermore comes with adaptive lights up front.

The launch route, which incorporated some of the Western Cape’s most scenic (read: touristy) roads, served as the perfect backdrop to a car that would be right at home in Cape Town’s upmarket suburbs, such as the Atlantic Seaboard, yet the Omoda C9’s keen price point is likely to see this model pop up all over the country in the coming months. But more on that later, I am saving it for the climax of this review.

Omoda C9 cabin piles on the luxury

Omoda wants the C9 to compete with premium-brand models, so its cabin needs to be extraordinary, which indeed it is: plush, luxurious and superbly comfortable, with soft-touch surfaces in abundance.

I mentioned the Mercedes-Benz earlier, and when ensconced in the Omoda C9, you might be forgiven for thinking that you are seated in one of the Three-pointed Star’s luxury offerings! The newcomer’s transmission lever is a stalk, which mimics a Benz-style column shifter and the electric seat adjustment buttons on the door panel look very similar to what you’d find in a Merc. It’s all rather familiar – I like it.

No review of a Chinese brand’s crossover/SUV would be complete without a lengthy paragraph about all the features and tech it offers – and the Omoda C9 is no exception. There are 2 variants to choose from: the 2.0T Inspire and 2.0T Explore AWD, both of which are generously specced, but I won’t waffle about that here – if you want a detailed breakdown of all the features, read Omoda C9 (2024) Price & Specs.

A 9-speaker Sony audio system is standard, with the 2.0T Explore AWD boasting 12 speakers, some of which are integrated into the driver’s headrest. The front seats are electrically adjustable, heated and ventilated; the Nappa leather-trimmed ‘wheel is also electrically adjustable and heated as standard.

The rear passengers benefit from electrically adjustable (and 60/40-split folding) backrests and seat heating, as well as having a separate climate control console and ventilation outlets. Should one of those passengers require more legroom, there is a “Boss” button that allows you to move the front passenger seat forward. This should prove fun for parents with kids in the back who keep pushing it for giggles…

Up front is a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and 12.3-inch infotainment screen (with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto). The graphics are good, but as with many new vehicles in which so many controls are integrated into the touchscreen, changing the cabin temperature, for example, requires familiarisation.

There are, however, a few shortcut buttons, including one that takes you directly to the climate control screen. A panoramic sunroof is standard, as is a head-up display and a 540-degree camera system.

As consumers have come to expect, the Omoda C9 has a host of safety features and -technologies, but thankfully, they are nowhere near as intrusive as they can be. Even the alert sounds have been dimmed.

What is the Omoda C9 like to drive?

The Omoda C9 is propelled by the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro Max‘s engine, albeit with a bit more power. In this model, the 2.0-litre turbopetrol engine produces 192 kW and 400 Nm of torque. Power is sent to either the front wheels or all of the wheels, derivative-depending, via an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Both variants offer drive modes, while the Explore AWD includes off-road modes, as well as adaptive damping. There is plenty of oomph on tap, but the ‘box tends to shift a little unexpectedly at times.

Don’t get me wrong, this is an exceptionally refined car for cruising, but if you plant the accelerator pedal too aggressively, the C9 will shoot forward “enthusiastically”, which may startle its occupants (it certainly startled me!) Perhaps the throttle calibration needs a tweak, but this “issue” isn’t unique to the Omoda.

Overall, the newcomer’s ride quality is highly composed, even forgiving and, as I mentioned before (but will reiterate here, for added impact), comfortable. It all adds to the Omoda’s air of luxury and refinement.

While we were driving along the winding Chapman’s Peak Drive, the C9 felt like a large car, or at least more substantial than most family cars/medium SUVs. It commands the road in the way that executive SUVs do. We didn’t pay too much notice to the fuel consumption (the test unit had only clocked up 400 km), but it seemed a trifle high; hopefully, the model will be more fuel efficient once it has been run in.

How much does the Omoda C9 cost in SA?

Omoda C9 2.0T Inspire	R785 900
OMODA C9 2.0T Explore AWD	R885 900

Note that both variants are offered with a R25k discount (October 2024) for a limited time only.

The Omoda C9 comes standard with a 7-year/100 000 km service plan, a 7-year/200 000 km vehicle warranty and an industry-leading 10-year/1 000 000 km engine warranty (for the first owner).

Search for a new/used Omoda model on Cars.co.za

Summary

In a few years, the South African car-buying landscape will be almost unrecognisable! The Omoda C9 will, without a doubt, entice buyers who previously only considered European or Japanese luxury cars. Local new-vehicle buyers are renowned for being “brand snobs”, but even brand loyalists will have to admit defeat as the deals on these cars become too sweet (I didn’t even rhyme that on purpose).

The Omoda C9 comfortably rivals the likes of the Volkswagen Tiguan (and other top-end medium SUVs) and even the 4th-gen BMW X3 (and the other executive SUVs in our market). And, at these prices, which (as explained above) is a launch special for October 2024 and will go up by R25 000 thereafter, Omoda’s proposition seems almost too good to be true, but, believe it – the C9 is going to change the game.

Profile: JDM Collective in Gauteng

Shiran Samuel might have worked in finance for most of his life, but today he focuses on his true passion: Japanese performance cars. We visit JDM Collective.

It is no secret that the performance cars from the ’90s, Noughties and even some from the 2010s have become quite sought-after. In terms of percentage growth, some of these cars’ prices have increased much more than cars from Ferrari or Lamborghini, for example.

But Shiran Samuel didn’t jump on this bandwagon, he is arguably one of the guys who saw the potential of the cars while also being a true enthusiast. He worked in the financial markets for several years.

However, after that stint in the corporate world, he decided to follow his passion and get involved in the car community and -retail. He founded JDM Collective and today, he offers a range of collectable Japanese performance cars as well as some European exotics. He swapped a job for a passion!

As I walk through the door I’m welcomed by Shiran and, moments later, my attention is immediately grabbed by the Japanese performance cars – perfectly parked, with almost military-like precision.

A couple of the cars are stored here by clients, some are for sale and a good number of them belong to Shiran himself. As expected, most of the R35-gen Nissan GT-Rs are not standard, as most owners prefer to customise these cars to a certain extent – some more liberally than others.

Of all the cars in the collection, it is the white R34 V-Spec II that is without a doubt the most collectable. As we take a seat Shiran shares his automotive history with me.

The origin story of JDM Collective

R35-gen Nissan GT-Rs at JDM Collective in Gauteng

“My first car was a Colt Galant, a hand-me-down. I started modifying everything I could, from the engine to the exhaust. When I left school, I acquired a Ford Escort. It goes without saying that I read many car magazines, browsed the classifieds and learned everything about cars, their figures and their prices. The media and the stats said at the time that the Nissan Sabre 200 GXi was the car to have.

I got a 1997 model in 2001 and from there, my interest kicked off. This was also the year that Fast & Furious hit the big screen and there was even more of a focus on performance parts. Through internet searches, I could then see what people in the USA and Australia were doing to their cars. My love for Nissan started there and with the SR20 engine. I did an engine swap with an imported Japanese engine.”

R35-gen Nissan GT-R at JDM Collective in Gauteng

The car he has owned the longest is a modified R35-gen Nissan GT-R.

“I’ve done an AMS Alpha 7 conversion on the car, a NISMO Time Attack rear carbon-fibre wing and an updated turbo, to name only a few modifications. It makes 620 kW at the wheels… it is a lovely car.”

NxGen in Johannesburg does Shiran’s maintenance and builds.

“I do enjoy modifying some cars. I believe they are meant to be played with – as if they are a platform to be enjoyed. With JDM cars, it truly is an expression of yourself. I like the old cars because they are so engaging. They are visceral and you need to work behind the ‘wheel.”

The importance of the car community

Subaru WRX STi at JDM Collective in Gauteng

“The only way you get access to special cars is through the car community, you need to really dive into it. That is how I acquired most of my cars (through the community). That is what JDM Collective is for, to open it for the broader community and petrolheads, be it to buy a car or to meet up for a coffee.

“The Japanese car culture fascinates me. The desire for perfection can be seen in these cars. Consider, for example, the honour associated with the engine builders. I love that they take such jobs so seriously. These Japanese cars’ reputations are well-founded.

R33-gen Nissan Skyline GTRs at JDM Collective in Gauteng

“The other thing I like about them is that they are naughty. Yes, there was that ‘gentlemen’s agreement of top speed and power’, but in the end, the brands always quietly catered for enthusiasts.

“In many cases, a car company’s marketing department quashes the brand’s true petrolhead DNA. It is always a nostalgia thing… The generation you come from defines your fondest car memories.”

Nissan Skyline GT-R engine bay at JDM Collective in Gauteng

Shiran has been to Japan with his family to visit some of the most important places in the country for car enthusiasts. He says he is keen to return to Japan because there is still so much to see and experience.

I can easily sit for another hour and talk to Shiran about all things JDM. He shares some big plans for the future, which clearly shows that he hit the nail on the head by opening this business.

Check out JDM Collective’s stock or their Instagram page to learn more about them, their stock and the services they offer.

Omoda C9 (2024) Price & Specs

The lavishly appointed Omoda C9 marks the first time that Chinese automotive group Chery has launched a model above the medium SUV segment in Mzansi. Here is what the newcomer comes equipped with, and how much the derivatives cost…

The Omoda C9 (a product of Chery’s O&J division) was previewed at last year’s Johannesburg Festival of Motoring. Still, it has taken about a year for the Omoda flagship model to arrive in our market.

For context, the arrestingly styled coupe-SUV is not so much a “new” model as a repackaged version of the RX – a model that one of Chery’s other sub-brands, Exeed – offers in overseas markets.

Want to know what it’s like to drive? Read: Omoda C9 (2024) Launch Review

In terms of dimensions, the Omoda C9 falls into the German premium brand-dominated executive SUV segment – but, fear not, the Chinese-built newcomer is specified and finished to an appropriately lofty level. The model is 4 775 mm long, 1 920 mm wide and stands 1 671 mm tall, which – for reference – makes it 29 mm longer, 2 mm wider and 50 mm taller than the outgoing BMW X4 coupe-SUV.

The newcomer’s exterior execution is marked by a (relatively) low-slung cross-coupe profile and sleek, sculpted sheet metal, complemented by pop-up door handles. At the front, the body-coloured, diamond-patterned grille sits between automatically activated LED headlamps (which are adaptive, with a welcome lighting sequence, on the Explore AWD variant) and wrapped by an LED lightbar. The rear features a tailgate spoiler and wraparound LED light bar that integrates the tail-light elements.

The C9 rides on 20-inch alloy wheels (complemented by red brake callipers on the Explore AWD). A full-size spare wheel is housed under the floor of the Omoda’s luggage compartment, with the latter offering an impressive 660 litres of space (and up to 1 783 litres with the 60:40-split 2nd-row folded down).

Under the bonnet is a 192 kW/400 Nm 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbopetrol engine that drives either the front- (Inspire FWD) or all wheels (Explore AWD) via an 8-speed automatic transmission. Shift paddles come standard, while the top-of-range derivative gains off-road drive modes, as well as adaptive damping.

Inside, the Omoda C9 is trimmed in finely stitched leather trim (black, in the case of the Inspire FWD and Black/Light Brown Nappa in the Explore AWD), dual 12.3-inch screens (integrated into a single, curved panel with a thickness of just 15 mm), a 50W wireless charger, a 9-speaker Sony audio system, which in the AWD derivative includes 3 extra speakers, some of which are integrated into the driver’s headrest.

The front seats are electrically adjustable (including lumbar support) as well as heated and ventilated. Even the Nappa leather-trimmed steering wheel is electrically adjustable and heated as standard.

The front passenger seat features a “Boss” button that allows the rear occupants to quickly and easily move this pew forward to maximise the already generous rear legroom. Rear passengers also benefit from power-adjustable backrests and seat heating, as well as a dedicated climate-control console.

Comprehensive specification – for both variants

Other standard features include a keyless entry and start, a head-up display, electrically adjustable-, heated- and folding side mirrors, dual-zone climate- and adaptive cruise control, a 540-degree camera system, wireless Apple CarPlayAndroid Auto, LED ambient lighting, a panoramic sunroof and a powered tailgate. The Explore AWD even comes equipped with a 3-fragrance dispensing system.

As for standard safety and driver-assistance features, both Omonda C9 derivatives come equipped with dual- front, side and curtain airbags, as well as driver’s knee and -bolster airbags, a built-in dashcam, front and rear PDC, plus automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert and -brake, lane departure warning, -change assist and -departure prevention, integrated cruise and traffic congestion assist and emergency lane keeping (all part of the intelligent collision-avoidance system).

How much does the Omoda C9 cost in SA?

Omoda C9 2.0T Inspire FWD	R785 900
OMODA C9 2.0T Explore AWD	R885 900

Note that both variants are offered with a R25k discount (October 2024) for a limited time only.

The Omoda C9 comes standard with a 7-year/100 000 km service plan, a 7-year/200 000 km vehicle warranty and an industry-leading 10-year/1 000 000 km engine warranty (for the first owner).

Search for a new/used Omoda model on Cars.co.za

New Lexus GX: full SA line-up uncovered!

The new Lexus GX will launch in SA in early 2025. We’ve uncovered early local info on the Prado’s luxury twin, including engine details, number of variants and specs…

In July 2024, Cars.co.za broke the news that the new Lexus GX is coming to South Africa in early 2025. Now, we can confirm various fresh details about the local range, as well as exactly when Toyota SA Motors plans to introduce the Land Cruiser Prado’s luxury twin.

Our latest information suggests the GX – a nameplate never before offered in Mzansi – is scheduled to launch locally in March 2025. While it’s obviously too early for pricing to have been nailed down, we have discovered that this luxury ladder-frame SUV will effectively be available in 4 forms at launch.

New Lexus GX rear — *The GX is expected in Mzansi around March 2025.*

From what we understand, the local GX line-up will comprise a quartet of derivatives at launch, each powered by the Japanese firm’s twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine – and each thus likely to wear the “GX550” moniker. That means the hybrid powertrain (GX550h) available in certain overseas markets won’t be offered locally at launch.

But back to that V6 mill. Familiar from the Land Cruiser 300 and LX600 but here detuned slightly to 260 kW and 650 Nm, the V35A-FTS engine is mated to all 4 wheels via a 10-speed automatic transmission. This petrol motor will serve to further differentiate the GX from the Prado, with the latter offered exclusively in turbodiesel guise.

New Lexus GX engine — *The GX will be powered by a 260 kW twin-turbo V6 petrol motor.*

We believe the local GX portfolio will kick off with the Overtrail grade, which will furthermore be available as a 2nd variant in bi-tone form. The 3rd derivative will be the Overtrail Off-Road, which – like the 2 above – will ship standard in 5-seater guise. Finally, the seemingly more road-biased SE is expected to top the range, featuring added equipment and upgrading to 7 seats.

Our information suggests all Overtrail derivatives will boast a braked towing capacity of 3 500 kg and ride on 18-inch alloy wheels (wrapped in 265/70 all-terrain tyres), while the SE flagship will be able to tow up to 3 130 kg (likewise braked) and roll on 22-inch rims (shod in road-biased 265/50 rubber).

New Lexus GX Overtrail wheel — *Overtrail derivatives will feature 18-inch alloys and all-terrain tyres.*

So, what about standard features? Well, the Overtrail derivatives look set to ship with items such as LED headlamps (including auto high beams), a tilt-and-slide moonroof, a powered tailgate, an electro-chromatic rear-view mirror, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14.0-inch touchscreen, the multi-terrain monitor, a head-up display, a 10-speaker sound system, wireless smartphone charging, a refrigerated cooler box, synthetic leather upholstery and electrically adjustable (plus heated-and-ventilated) front seats.

Furthermore, all Overtrail variants will boast a rear differential lock, along with Toyota’s multi-terrain select system, downhill assist control, crawl control and the brand’s trick e-KDSS suspension system. From what we understand, the 7-seater SE will do without the aforementioned off-road enhancements, though will likewise feature a locking centre differential, full-time 4×4 and low-range gearing.

*We believe the SE derivative will look something like this (international model shown).*

Then, the GX Overtrail Off-Road variant will be set apart by various other 4×4-specific pieces of equipment, such as additional underbody protection, off-road side steps, a side-mounted gear carrier, a roof rack, all-weather floormats and a luggage-compartment liner.

Meanwhile, the 3-row SE derivative will score features like a 21-speaker Mark Levinson sound system, semi-aniline leather upholstery, a front-seat massaging function, 2nd-row seat heating, a fixed panoramic glass roof, adaptive high beams, a panoramic-view monitor, a digital rear-view mirror and even automatically deploying side steps.

New Lexus GX SE — *The SE flagship will come with automatically deploying side steps.*

According to our information, the GX will be available in the following 5 monotone exterior colours: White Quartz, Sonic Titanium, Titanium Carbide Grey, Graphite Black and Mercury Grey (with the latter hue exclusive to the SE grade). The bi-tone version of the Overtrail, meanwhile, will be offered in Sonic Titanium, Titanium Carbide Grey and Desert Moonlight, each paired with a black finish for the roof and side-mirror caps.

For the record, Toyota Motor Corporation applied to trademark the “GX550” badge in South Africa back in June 2023, about 2 weeks after the 3rd-generation GX was revealed on the global stage. While the trademark has still to be officially registered in Mzansi, it’s likely just a matter of time.

*The new GX will be positioned between the RX and LX.*

As a reminder, the Lexus GX is a body-on-frame SUV that traces its roots all the way back to 2002. While the opening 2 generations were produced exclusively in left-hand-drive guise (catering primarily to North America), this 3rd iteration is also manufactured in right-hand drive, opening the door to introductions in its domestic market of Japan as well as in Australia and indeed SA.

Set to be positioned between the Lexus RX (currently running from R1 452 600 to R1 740 300) and flagship LX (with current pricing bookends of R2 517 500 and R2 997 400), the GX shares various elements – though not its powertrain – with the latest Land Cruiser Prado, right down to its “J250” model code. The Prado, for the record, is currently priced from R1 296 300 to R1 462 400.

New Lexus GX derivatives for South Africa

Lexus GX550 Overtrail

Lexus GX550 Overtrail Bi-Tone

Lexus GX550 Overtrail Off-Road

Lexus GX550 SE

We expect the new GX to ship standard with a 7-year/100 000 km warranty and maintenance plan with the same parameters.

Kia Sonet (2024) Specs & Price

Having launched the updated Kia Sonet small crossover in South Africa earlier this year, the Korean brand’s local subsidiary has now added a pair of entry-level LS variants and is offering a R40k deal-assistance package on all other derivatives.

The Kia Sonet competes in the highly competitive compact SUV segment and the latest updated Sonet now offers revised styling as well as more choice for local buyers.

Want to know what it’s like to drive? Read: Kia Sonet (2024) Review

The newly arrived 1.5 LS manual (R299 995) and 1.5 LS CVT (R324 995) derivatives are not majorly de-specced versions of their LX trim-grade equivalents (the range’s previous entry-level variants), yet they retail for R67k less than their siblings. What’s more, Kia South Africa has announced that up to R40 000 in deal assistance is available on LX, EX, EX Plus and SX variants “for the remainder of the year (2024).”

Although the improved affordability at the entry point of the facelifted Sonet range will be welcomed, the drawback is a reduction of the standard service plan from 4 years/60 000 km to 3 years/45 000 km.

What’s Changed on the latest Kia Sonet?

The Kia Sonet’s design follows the Korean firm’s latest “Opposites United” design philosophy which is also employed on other Kia models such as the Picanto and Seltos.

Kia Sonet 2024 Rear — *The Sonet gains a new rear taillight design.*

The updated Sonet features a revised bonnet, grille and bumper and gains a new light signature. Kia has also reworked the rear taillight clusters.

A new paint colour option, Pewter Olive metallic is available and buyers can also choose from a dual-tone finish with either Glacier White Pearl with a black roof or Red metallic with a black roof. In addition, depending on the grade, 2 wheel options are also offered, both 16-inches in size.

Kia Sonet 2024 interior — *The Sonet’s interior remains mostly unchanged.*

The interior remains mostly the same as before and depending on the grade, the Sonet can be had with either an 8-inch or 10.25-inch touchscreen system.

As far as engines go, the familiar naturally-aspirated 1.5-litre petrol engine with 85 kW and 144 Nm is available in conjunction with either a 5-speed manual transmission or CVT automatic. A 3-cylinder 1.0-litre turbopetrol with 88 kW and 172 Nm is also available with a 7-speed dual-clutch (auto) transmission.

In terms of standard safety equipment, all variants are equipped with ABS with EBD, electronic stability control (including hill-start control), dual front airbags and ISOfix child seat anchors, while the EX Plus and SX variants come equipped with 6 airbags (additional side and curtain ‘bags).

The range-topping 1.5 SX CVT also comes equipped with advanced driver assistance systems, such as blind-spot collision avoidance assist, lane-keep and- follow assist and forward collision avoidance assist.

What features are available for the new Kia Sonet?

Sonet LS

The Sonet range starts with the LS trim, which includes:

Daytime Running Lights
15-inch steel wheels with decorative covers
Cloth and leather combination upholstery
Manual air conditioning
Height-adjustable driver’s seat
Rake adjustable steering
Steering-wheel mounted controls
4.2-inch TFT Supervision instrument cluster
8-inch touchscreen infotainment with 6 speakers
Reverse-view camera
Bluetooth with Voice Recognition
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
USB charging ports (front and rear)
Single-piece folding rear seatback
Front disc brakes, with drums at the rear
Central locking and immobiliser

Sonet LX

Offers the following over and above the LS grade:

16-inch alloy wheels
Driver and front passenger sun-visor mirrors
60:40 split rear seats
Disc brakes front and rear

Sonet EX

Offers the following over and above the LX grade:

Rear parking sensors
LED daytime running lights
LED rear combination lights
LED positioning lights
Rear fog lamps
Centre console armrest with integrated storage box
Leather-wrapped steering wheel and transmission lever
Auto-folding electric side mirrors with integrated indicator lamps
Cruise control

Sonet EX Plus

Includes all LX features, but adds:

Automatic climate control
16-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels
Full artificial leather upholstery
10.25-inch LCD Supervision instrument cluster
10.25-inch colour infotainment touchscreen
Electrochromatic rearview mirror

Sonet SX

Includes LX and EX features but adds:

Smart entry with push-button start
LED headlights
LED front fog lights
Wireless smartphone charger
Drive Mode Select

How much does the Kia Sonet cost in South Africa?

Note that pricing is accurate as of October 2024.

Kia Sonet 1.5 LS Manual	R299 995
Kia Sonet 1.5 LS CVT	R324 995
Available with up to R40k deal assistance (until 31 December 2024):
Kia Sonet 1.5 LX Manual	R366 995
Kia Sonet 1.5 LX CVT	R391 995
Kia Sonet 1.5 EX CVT	R411 995
Kia Sonet 1.0T EX DCT	R436 995
Kia Sonet 1.5 EX Plus CVT	R454 995
Kia Sonet 1.5 SX CVT	R484 995

The Sonet is sold with Kia’s 5-year/unlimited km warranty, inclusive of Roadside Assistance. Note, however, that although the facelifted Kia Sonet was launched (in June 2024) with a 4-year/60 000 km service plan as standard, that has now been reduced to a 3-year/45 000 km service plan.

Buy a new Kia Sonet on Cars.co.za

Buy a used Kia Sonet on Cars.co.za

What To Buy: Hyundai Exter vs Chery Tiggo 4 vs Nissan Magnite

How well does the new Hyundai Exter stack up against best-selling budget crossovers such as the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro and Nissan Magnite? More importantly, which one of these cars represents the strongest buying proposition? Let’s find out!

The new Hyundai Exter has been in high demand since it arrived on the local market in September 2024. That’s good news for Hyundai, because this segment is jam-packed with strong products. As it stands, the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro, Nissan Magnite, Suzuki Fronx, Renault Kiger and Toyota Starlet Cross are among the best-selling budget crossovers. Mahindra also recently joined the party with the new XUV 3XO!

Suffice it to say, buyers are spoilt for choice in this segment and this article will examine how the new Hyundai Exter stacks up against the popular Chery Tiggo 4 Pro and the Nissan Magnite.

Also see: What to Buy: Suzuki Fronx vs Chery Tiggo 4 Pro vs Nissan Magnite

The main aim of this article is to help you, the consumer, make an informed buying decision. To help you do this, we will provide you with the need-to-know information and insight based on available vehicle information and our experience with the cars in question.

This article will cover key aspects such as Performance & Efficiency, Interior Features & Safety, Dimensions & Practicality, as well as Pricing & Warranty details.

If, at the end of this article, you are still undecided as to what to buy, you are more than welcome to reach out to us for advice via X, Facebook or Instagram. Our experienced test team will gladly assist you.

What To Buy: Hyundai Exter vs Chery Tiggo 4 vs Nissan Magnite

Performance

	Hyundai Exter	Chery Tiggo 4 Pro	Nissan Magnite
Powertrain	1.2-litre, naturally aspirated petrol	1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol 1.5-litre, turbocharged, petrol	1.0-litre naturally-aspirated 1.0-litre, turbocharged petrol
Power Output	61 kW (NA)	83 kW (NA) 108 kW (Turbo)	53 kW (NA) 74 kW (Turbo)
Torque Output	114 Nm (NA)	138 Nm (NA) 210 Nm (Turbo)	96 Nm (NA) 160 Nm (Turbo)
Transmission	5-speed manual / 5-speed automated manual (AMT)	6-speed manual / CVT	5-speed (manual) / 5-speed automated manual (AMT) / CVT / DCT
Fuel Consumption	5.7 – 5.9 L/100 km	6.7 – 7.0 L/100 km	5.2 – 6.0 L/100 km

Hyundai Exter

All Hyundai Exter derivatives are powered by a naturally aspirated 1.2-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine that produces 61 kW and 114 Nm of torque. On paper, its peak outputs are notably better than what’s offered by the equivalent Magnite, but it’s not as punchy as the larger capacity engine in the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro.

Thanks to the Exter’s low kerb weight of 957 kg, its engine doesn’t have to work too hard to get the vehicle up to speed. In an urban setting, the Exter’s performance is more than adequate (allied with a responsive steering feel), plus the manual ‘box has a light, but direct action, which will please buyers.

The engine sounds a trifle strained at the national speed limit, which suggests that the gearbox would benefit from having an additional (6th) gear to reduce the engine’s RPM to the benefit of fuel efficiency. With that said, the Exter is more suited to urban- or city driving, as opposed to long-distance touring.

The ride quality is good, considering the Exter’s price point – the Indian-build budget crossover has a forgiving, comfortable suspension setup that can cope with South Africa’s deteriorating road network.

Note that we have yet to drive the Exter AMT, but our experience with automated manual transmissions in other products has been disappointing. While an AMT offers the convenience of 2-pedal driving, that type of transmission is usually paired with a motor that produces limited torque, so shifts need to be timely – but they aren’t always! We reserve judgment on the Exter AMT until we have experienced it.

Good fuel economy is one of the Exter’s strengths; Hyundai claims an average of 5.7 to 5.9 L/100km. On our test drive of a manual Exter, it returned excellent figures of around 6.0 to 6.2 L/100 km.

Chery Tiggo 4 Pro

The naturally aspirated 1.5-litre petrol engine in the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro does offer superior peak engine outputs to the Exter and, if you plan on doing more highway driving over longer distances, perhaps the Chinese offering is a more suitable transport solution.

The Tiggo 4 Pro range also has the option of a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbopetrol engine, which is the preferred powertrain for its punchier performance, but only if your budget allows you to purchase a 1.5T-powered derivative, of course. Ride quality is good on well-sealed surfaces, but does deteriorate on poorer surfaces due to insufficient damping. However, if you’re likely to spend most of your time driving in an urban environment (not on gravel), the Tiggo 4 Pro will be adequately refined for this purpose.

Unlike the Exter, the Tiggo 4 Pro is available with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which is a more refined auto compared with the former’s AMT, but a laid-back driving approach is required to get the best out of a CVT (hard acceleration should be a last resort, not the norm). Chery also offers a dual-clutch transmission (DCT) in the flagship Tiggo 4 Pro Elite, which trumps the CVT if you can afford it.

In exchange for punchier performance, buyers will have to accept higher fuel consumption, which isn’t ideal for a car of this size. Chery claims an average fuel-efficiency of between 6.7- and 7.0 L/100 km, but real-world figures above 8.8 L/100km can be expected.

Nissan Magnite

Nissan expanded the Magnite range in 2023 with the addition of a naturally aspirated 1.0-litre petrol engine with 53 kW and 96 Nm of torque. In the company of the Exter and Tiggo 4 Pro, this engine’s outputs are, well, workmanlike.

Admittedly, we have yet to drive a derivative of the Magnite with this engine, but we can comfortably recommend opting for a turbopetrol variant of this model, again, if your budget allows it. Naturally-aspirated engines lose about 17% of their power at higher altitudes such as in Gauteng and the Magnite, with its low torque output will suffer for that, especially when fully loaded with passengers and luggage.

The turbocharged Magnite does offer better overall performance than its naturally aspirated sibling. However, we have found that this engine is gutless below 2 800 rpm, so you have to gear down often to “keep the engine on the boil” (so to speak) or consider opting for the automatic (CVT) derivative.

Ride quality is fair-to-good, but the cabin insulation could be better (to stop road- and tyre noise from bothering the Magnite’s occupants), something which will hopefully be addressed when the facelifted Nissan Magnite reaches Mzansi. When you corner hard in the Magnite, body roll is also pronounced.

As far as fuel efficiency is concerned, the Magnite returns around 6.5 L/100km in real-world driving situations (Nissan claims an average of between 5.2- and 6.0 L/100 km).

Interior execution and features

For this feature comparison, we will compare the range-topping derivatives from each model range.

Features are easily compared using our handy Compare Tool where you can compare up to 3 cars side-by-side.

See the full specification comparison here

	Hyundai Exter 1.2 Elite	Chery Tiggo 4 Pro 1.5T Elite DCT	Nissan Magnite 1.0 Turbo Acenta Plus auto
Infotainment system	8-inch touchscreen	10.25-inch touchscreen	8-inch touchscreen
Digital Instrument Cluster	4-inch colour TFT display	7-inch digital cluster	Central digital display
Android Auto / Apple CarPlay	Yes	Yes	Yes
Bluetooth, Voice Control, USB, Wireless Charging	Yes, Type C (front), no wireless charging	Yes, 2 front USB, 1 rear USB, no wireless charging	Yes to all, 1 front USB
Rear View Camera	Yes	Yes	Front and Rear, 360-degree
Steering Adjustment: Rake / Reach	Rake only	Rake and reach	No
Cruise Control	Yes	Yes	Yes
Air Conditioning	Climate control	Climate control	Climate control
Panoramic Sunroof	Tilt sunroof	Sunroof	No
Upholstery / electric seats	Partial artificial leather and cloth, manual seats	Leather, electrically adjusted driver’s seat	Partial artificial leather and cloth, manual seats
Front / Rear Park Distance Control	Rear only	Rear only	Rear only
Safety Features	6 airbags, ABS with EBD, Stability control (no traction control), tyre pressure monitor	6 airbags, ABS (no EBD), Electronic Stability Control with traction control, Brake Assist, hill descent control, tyre pressure monitoring	2 airbags, ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Control with traction control, hill start assist, tyre pressure monitoring

Interior feature summary

As Hyundai’s new budget crossover (it’s positioned below the popular Venue small crossover), the Exter features a rudimentary cabin design featuring mostly hard-wearing plastics. While there’s no major wow factor to the Exter’s cabin, it exhibits good perceived build quality and the central 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system is easy to use with an intuitive menu layout. A tilting sunroof adds to the Exter’s charm and it’s worth mentioning that both USB-A and USB-C ports are present to charge your devices.

The Tiggo 4 Pro’s cabin ambience, by comparison, is elevated by soft-touch surfaces and a variety of materials that give it a more stylish look and feel. Perceived build quality is good too and, in top-spec guise, the Chery excels with good “standard feature value” with nice-to-haves such as an enlarged (10.25-inch) touchscreen infotainment system, a wireless charging pad, electrically adjustable seats and a sunroof. Note, however, that the top-spec Tiggo is notably pricier than the top-of-the-range Exter.

Moving inside the Magnite, it’s clear that Nissan is targeting a more youthful clientele with its colourful, retro-style instrument cluster and angular air vents. The cabin materials represent a mixed bag with some poor-quality finishes and average perceived build quality. In Acenta Plus guise, the Magnite does have a long list of standard features, however. The infotainment system is easy to navigate and a 360-degree camera system is a bonus. Note that the Magnite lags behind its rivals with dual airbags versus the 6 airbags in both the Exter and Tiggo 4 Pro, which might be a drawback if safety is a priority for you.

Dimensions and Practicality

	Hyundai Exter	Chery Tiggo 4 Pro	Nissan Magnite
Length	3 815 mm	4 318 mm	3 994 mm
Width	1 710 mm	1 831 mm	1 758 mm
Height	1 631 mm	1 662 mm	1 572 mm
Wheelbase	2 450 mm	2 610 mm	2 500 mm
Kerb Weight	957 kg	1 364 kg	1 014 kg
Ground Clearance	185 mm	180 mm	205 mm
Load Capacity	290 – 1 275 L	340 – 1 100 L	336 L

Practicality Summary

The Exter has a smaller overall footprint than the Tiggo 4 Pro and is marginally smaller than the Magnite. Nonetheless, the Hyundai’s cabin is surprisingly spacious, even if its load bay is smaller than those of the Chery and Nissan. Based on manufacturer-supplied figures, when the Exter’s rear bench is folded down, it frees up more utility space than you’d get in a Tiggo 4 Pro (in the same configuration), so check that on a test drive! In terms of overall passenger space, the Chery is best, thanks to its longer wheelbase.

Pricing and warranty

Pricing is accurate as of October 2024.

	Hyundai Exter	Price	Chery Tiggo 4 Pro	Price	Nissan Magnite	Price
Entry	Exter 1.2 Premium Manual	R269 900	Tiggo 4 Pro 1.5 LiT manual	R279 900	Magnite 1.0 Visia manual	R240 000
	Exter 1.2 Premium Auto	R294 900	Tiggo 4 Pro 1.5 LiT auto	R314 900	Magnite 1.0 Visia auto	R256 800
			Tiggo 4 Pro 1.5T LiT auto	R359 900	Magnite 1.0 Turbo Visia manual	R302 800

Mid	Exter 1.2 Executive Manual	R289 900	–		Magnite 1.0 Acenta manual	R260 900
	Exter 1.2 Executive Auto	R314 900	–		Magnite 1.0 Acenta auto	R277 800
					Magnite 1.0 Turbo Acenta manual	R323 100
					Nissan Magnite 1.0 Turbo Acenta Kuro manual	R333 600
					Magnite 1.0 Turbo Acenta auto	R353 200
					Magnite 1.0 Turbo Acenta Kuro auto	R363 100
Top	Exter 1.2 Elite auto	R334 900	Tiggo 4 Pro 1.5T Elite CVT	R386 900	Magnite 1.0 Acenta Plus manual	R277 000
			Tiggo 4 Pro 1.5T LiT Elite DCT	R415 900	Magnite 1.0 Acenta Plus auto	R294 700
					Magnite 1.0 Turbo Acenta Plus manual	R343 200
					Magnite 1.0 Turbo Acenta Plus auto	R377 800
Warranty	5-yr / 150 000 km (vehicle) 7-yr/ 200 000 km (drivetrain)		5-yr / 150 000 km (vehicle) 10-yr / 1 million km (1st owner- engine)		6-yr / 150 000 km
Service Plan	3-year / 45 000 km		5-yr / 60 000 km		3-yr / 30 000 km

*Note that this pricing comparison excludes the new Chery Tiggo 4 Pro Panel Van commercial vehicle.

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Verdict

As highlighted above, Hyundai’s newcomer competes at the lower end of the budget crossover segment and, based on our video review of the Exter, we can comfortably recommend the Indian-built model to budget-conscious buyers looking for a capable and well-priced urban runabout.

The Exter represents a stronger buying proposition than the equivalent Nissan Magnite, both in terms of engine performance and overall quality, despite the Nissan having a slightly stronger vehicle warranty.

The Chery Tiggo 4 Pro is a larger vehicle and with a strong standard feature set, it’s a difficult-to-ignore option in this segment – it’s no surprise that it’s currently a best-seller in the new-vehicle market. The top-spec Elite derivatives are the sweet spot in the range, but they do command a higher premium than the range-topping Exter and will only be accessible to buyers who can stretch their budgets accordingly.

At the time of writing, Mahindra launched its XUV 3XO budget crossover and our first encounter with the product was very positive. The XUV 3XO appears to be a well-engineered car that has a punchy 1.2-litre turbopetrol engine and comes packed with standard features. Given its keen pricing structure, it’s a strong rival to the Hyundai Exter. Look out for a comparison featuring the Mahindra 3XO soon!

If you’re looking for an affordable compact SUV for under R300k, we suggest that you put the Hyundai Exter, Chery Tiggo 4 Pro and Mahindra 3XO on your shortlist.

Buy a new Hyundai Exter on Cars.co.za / Buy a used Hyundai Exter on Cars.co.za

Buy a new Chery Tiggo 4 Pro on Cars.co.za / Buy a used Chery Tiggo 4 Pro on Cars.co.za

Buy a new Nissan Magnite on Cars.co.za / Buy a used Nissan Magnite on Cars.co.za

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