The compact Audi Q2 will be getting an enhanced infotainment system and the brand has confirmed this updated model will be arriving locally in the fourth quarter of 2024.
The Audi Q2 infotainment upgrade comprises the 12.3-inch Audi virtual cockpit and a new 8.8-inch infotainment touchscreen. There’ll also be a new-look 3-spoke multifunction steering wheel and the MMI dial has been replaced by a storage compartment. Previously the digital dashboard was an optional extra and the standard load out was analogue dials.
There’s been a spec change too, with the introduction of traffic sign recognition, lane departure warning and rear parking assist. Two USB-C ports have been added for additional convenience and these replace the single USB-A port.
As a reminder, the Audi Q2 range locally is powered by a 1.4-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine which makes 110 kW and 250 Nm. Power reaches the front wheels via an automatic transmission. Currently, there are three derivatives to choose from, with pricing starting from R608 500.
When will the Audi Q2 infotainment upgrade come to South Africa?
An Audi South Africa representative confirmed the updated Q2 will be arriving in local showrooms in the fourth quarter of 2024.
A facelifted version of the Honda Ballade has quietly landed in South Africa. Here’s how much the updated sedan – including the flagship RS derivative – will cost you…
With all the attention currently falling on the freshly launched Honda Elevate, the arrival of a facelifted version of the related Honda Ballade in South Africa has gone almost unnoticed.
Thankfully, the eagle-eyed experts over at duoporta.com spotted what would otherwise have been an entirely under-the-radar update.
As before, the local Ballade range comprises 3 sedan derivatives, each fitted with the firm’s naturally aspirated 1.5-litre petrol engine. Just as it does in the Ballade’s platform-sharing Elevate sibling, this 4-cylinder mill sends 89 kW and 145 Nm to the front wheels, though here it’s mated exclusively to a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
So, to the all-important topic of pricing. The Ballade 1.5 Comfort CVT now kicks off at R389 900, while the Ballade 1.5 Elegance CVT is priced at R424 900. The flagship Ballade 1.5 RS CVT, meanwhile, will set you back R459 900.
From what we can tell, the refreshed Ballade – which is known as the City in other markets – is mechanically unchanged from the version that touched down in Mzansi back in November 2020. So, it appears this mid-cycle revision centres on styling changes and perhaps some equipment upgrades (we’ll have to wait on Honda Motor Southern Africa for details on the latter).
A little frustratingly, Honda’s local website currently includes images of only the top-spec RS derivative, though this variant clearly gains fresh front-end styling. The latter overhaul is led by a new grille design, while dispensing with the outgoing model’s chunky slab of chrome-effect trim. In addition, the Ballade RS scores a new front bumper with revised foglamp bezels.
Round back, the changes appear to be a little less pronounced, though this saloon does feature an updated rear bumper design (the relatively subtle RS bootlid spoiler, meanwhile, remains in place). Judging by the images, the Ballade also upgrades to a fresh (again 2-tone) 16-inch alloy-wheel design.
The cabin, too, seems to have benefitted from some tweaks, with the RS model gaining red dashboard trim and red contrast stitching. The lone image on the local website furthermore suggests some silver finishes – such as those applied to the steering wheel and around the air vents on either side of the touchscreen – have been dropped in favour of black finishes.
We’ll update this story with more information on any other specification changes should Honda Motor Southern Africa release official details…
How much does the facelifted Honda Ballade cost in SA?
Honda Ballade 1.5 Comfort CVT – R389 900
Honda Ballade 1.5 Elegance CVT – R424 900
Honda Ballade 1.5 RS CVT – R459 900
A 5-year/200 000 km warranty and a 4-year/60 000 km service plan (with intervals of 15 000 km) are included in the purchase price.
Those who have been clamouring for a new off-roader model priced under R1 million may need to look no further than the GWM Tank 300, which combines highly desirable exterior styling with notable off-road ability and an abundance of luxury features.
Consider this: South Africa is a “4×4 country”. Yet, if you remove our beloved bakkies (think Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger and Isuzu D-Max) and the Adventure SUVs derived from them (so Fortuner, Everest and MU-X) from that list of vehicles, well, there aren’t quite as many 4x4s available as you may think.
The diminutive Suzuki Jimny, of which we recently reviewed the new 5-door variant, and the pricey Jeep Wrangler spring to mind, but overall, sub R1 million, there’s not too much going on…
Enter the GMW Tank 300 HEV, which is a dyed-in-the-wool mudslinger with all the axle articulation you require and prices that begin as low as R725 950 (sort of). Its off-roader underpinnings are dressed with a Tonka Toy exterior that evokes the stylings of more vehicles than you could shake a Ford Bronco at.
The result is impressively cohesive and, ultimately, a feel-good new face on the road. Visually, the GWM Tank 300 is a retro-pastiche head turner, despite not having that much SUV heritage to hark back to.
On that note, I’ll preempt some of the conversations to the extent of “you can’t buy pedigree” and “there’s no shortcut to legacy”. It’s true, but having said that, I’d like to point out that GWM South Africa has been operating in Mzansi for 16 years and its Haval sub-brand has been on the market for 6 years. Furthermore, the manufacturer has enjoyed great sales success and garnered notable critical acclaim.
To this point, it was 10 years ago (precisely) when I took a GWM C20R on a road trip from Cape Town to Durban and back, via gnarly backroads and gravel passes, to Hogsback and the Eastern Cape with zero hassle. So, a decade later, when presented with a proper off-roader, well, GWM has my full attention.
We got to sample the flagship HEV (hybrid electric vehicle) derivative, which retails for R851 950 and, as a result, comes with the largest performance payload: 255 kW and 648 Nm of torque. If you opt for either version of the non-electrified 2.0-litre turbopetrol (2.0T), which will be launched in about a month’s time, you’ll have 162 kW and 380 Nm of torque at the disposal of your right foot.
All 3 derivatives in the launch line-up are backed by a 7-year warranty, a 5-year service plan, as well as an 8-year battery warranty. Whereas the petrol-only iterations (Super Luxury and Ultra Luxury) feature an 8-speed automatic transmission, the HEV has a 9-speed auto box. The latter produced fairly creamy ‘shifts on tar and gravel surfaces, both of which we covered extensively throughout the 2-day event.
G-Class inspired interior has the “wow factor”
The cabin architecture feels inspired by that of a Gelandewagen Mercedes-Benz (G-Class), albeit with more plastic surfaces and finishes. I wasn’t offended by it (Mercedes’ Copyright department may beg to differ) – it certainly makes one feel as though you’ve spoiled yourself a little. The 12.3-inch touchscreen, seamlessly paired with the driver’s TFT info cluster, was particularly impressive (and well-implemented).
A sunroof, heated steering wheel, plush seats with massaging functions and, for your ears, a 9-speaker Harman Kardon audio system (complemented with wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto), are all standard. What’s more, GWM has installed a 220V plug point, as well as a 12V power outlet at the rear.
Meanwhile, the 60/40-split rear seats can be folded flat to create utility space, and there’s no shortage of grab handles throughout. The front passenger alone has 3(!) places to grip when things get twisty.
To that point, the Tank 300 has a plethora of safety features; it was awarded a 5-star rating by ANCAP (the Australian motor industry body for vehicle safety testing), helped in part by 7 airbags, lane-keeping- and adaptive cruise control, Intelligent Cornering tech and the use of high strength steel throughout its construction. The GWM also comes equipped with bash guard plates, 8 parking sensors, scratch-proof black mouldings and, at each corner, an 18-inch chrome alloy wheel wrapped in Primacy SUV rubber.
LED head- and taillamps are fitted. The ones at the front feature automatic high beams, can go around corners and feature a striking daytime running lamp (DRL) strip that wraps around the sides of the Tank 300’s nose. The clusters at the back, in turn, look great with their black backing. Black roof rails and privacy glass for the 2nd row add further gravitas to the newcomer’s bold, high-contrast aesthetic…
What’s the GWM Tank 300 like to drive off-road?
Back to those off-road credentials, however. It’s worth mentioning the multilink rear suspension, which smoothed out the tarmac of Gauteng and the Northern Province, then impressed us again on the dirt, and finally, once more through the De Wilt 4×4 course.
The Tank 300 crawled over everything the environment could throw at us; we fully used the vehicle’s selectable terrain modes and the “transparent” 360-degree camera system (it makes it easier to position the vehicle when off-roading) and even played with the off-road cruise control function on gradients.
If you’re into numbers, you may like to know that the GWM Tank 300 boasts respectable 33-degree approach- and 34-degree departure angles, as well as 224 mm of ground clearance. It’ll wade 700 mm deep – not a claim, we got to test this, with the knowledge that GWM had fit chassis protection guards underneath. Again, we emerged perfectly unscathed and surprisingly chuffed with the SUV’s abilities.
Summary
To reiterate, the only version of the GWM Tank 300 that is currently on sale is the flagship HEV Super Luxury 4×4 derivative. With a price tag of R851 950 (February 2024) it is not cheap, albeit well beneath that R1-million mark. For that premium, however, you do get a very attractive, feature-laden 4×4 with a classy interior that will make you feel like you’ve really splashed out on a premium product.
It handles well, isn’t shy to accelerate hard when required and then there’s the peace of mind that when the road turns to shrapnel, you’ll almost certainly be able to traverse it in your chunky GWM.
But if you are concerned about the Chinese-made GWM Tank 300 not being a proven product (members of the 4x4ing community tend to be fiercely loyal to the legacy brands), I can’t ease your fears. But I can declare that the 2.0-litre turbopetrol engine impressed me on the day and, as I mentioned at the start, it’s my professional opinion that GWM and Haval have truly emerged as a quality prospect in South Africa.
Still, in terms of robustness and reliability in the more challenging nooks and crannies of the South African gravel network, your favourite bush mechanic might prefer a more familiar engine to operate on in case of an emergency. But then, that’s what tow rope was invented for…
Jokes aside, besides being an unproven entity on and off our roads, I have very little negativity to report. Perhaps an indicator lever that needed to be finessed and the ‘box’s tendency to hold onto its cogs a bit longer (in low range) than I would’ve liked were irksome, but neither quirk made a major blip on my radar.
Overall, the GWM Tank 300 is a worthy and undeniably colourful addition to our portfolio of 4x4s in South Africa and you would not be a fool to take a chance on one – far from it.
Kia’s small(est) crossover contests an exceedingly congested segment of the new-car market, but has proven a popular purchase nonetheless. We conducted an extended test of the Kia Sonet 1.5 LX Auto to discover its strengths and (very few) weaknesses.
It seems like yesterday when A- and B-segment compact hatchbacks ruled the sales charts, but the relentless growth in popularity of small crossovers (also known as compact family cars) has seen those once dominant vehicle types eclipsed by their (relatively) high-riding siblings. Kia no longer offers the Rio in South Africa, and while the next iteration of the Picanto is coming, it is likely to play a smaller role.
As we zipped around Cape Town in the popular Sonet for a few weeks, we couldn’t help but notice how many examples were on the roads. Kia South Africa has achieved notable sales volumes by boosting the Sonet through the rental car industry, but evidently, the stylish little Kia holds considerable appeal for private buyers as well, even though it is comparatively expensive compared with some of its rivals.
But what’s it like to live with? And given its relative price premium, is it worth the extra money?
3 Things we like about the Kia Sonet
In a segment full of cookie-cutter designs, the Kia Sonet’s front-end styling is distinctively handsome.
Ride and overall comfort levels
Indicative of its modern design, the Sonet may have a shorter wheelbase than those of the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro and Suzuki Fronx (its 2 main rivals, in our opinion), but it fits between them in terms of overall vehicle length and, importantly, width. The seats are comfortable and the driver’s chair is height adjustable.
Combined with the ride height of the vehicle (190 mm), and the high-perched driver’s seat, the Sonet creates the impression of being a “bigger” vehicle than it is – a trait that many buyers of small crossovers (let alone some of the larger examples) seem to prefer. A minor irritation is that the steering column is only adjustable for rake (angle), but nevertheless, a comfortable driving position should be easy to find.
The rear space is good, with surprisingly generous leg- and headroom available. Then again, the Sonet is a taller vehicle than the Fronx and only a smidge lower than the more overtly SUV-like Tiggo 4 Pro. Aft occupants have access to their own ventilation outlets (always a nice touch) and a USB charging port.
Rear occupants will find more leg- and headroom than expected – a credit to Kia’s clever packaging of the Sonet.
The load bay has a noteworthy claimed capacity of 392 litres, which is better than the figures claimed for the Chery and Suzuki respectively. It is also nicely box-shaped, to better accommodate bulky items.
But, unfortunately, the Sonet is fitted with a single-piece rear backrest. Folding that down does free up a lot of utility space, but it also turns the Sonet into a 2-seater.
Riding on 15-inch (steel) wheels fitted with plump 195/65 tyres, the softly-sprung Sonet provides a relaxing driving experience around town. What’s more, given the Korean model’s compact dimensions (and standard reverse-view camera), it is also easy to park in the city. The lack of fancy alloy wheels and the generous width of the tyres’ sidewalls also help to make parking against high kerbs less stressful.
The Sonet is Kia’s most affordable crossover, but it imparts a feeling of high quality when you’re behind the ‘wheel.
Inside, the Sonet feels every bit a well-made, decently equipped and thoroughly modern little runabout. The instrumentation is digital, the manual aircon is potent and electric windows are standard, while the touchscreen infotainment system supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth and voice commands.
The Kia is a quiet and relaxed car to drive, even when it’s traversing poorly maintained road surfaces, which is a testament to its good build quality; we discerned neither a rattle nor a squeak from the cabin.
But compared with the competition, it has a few shortcomings. Perhaps most importantly, it only has dual front airbags (its aforementioned rivals have additional side- and curtain airbags) and no cruise control.
The Kia Sonet has a composed ride quality, courtesy of a pliant suspension and the fitment of plump tyres.
Power and efficiency balance
This Sonet is powered by a 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine. There is no fancy turbo- or supercharger here, just a simple, unstressed naturally aspirated motor that should prove reliable for many, many years.
The engine delivers strong maximum outputs: 85 kW and 144 Nm of torque, both of which best the peak numbers claimed for the Suzuki and Chery. The Sonet is about 100 kg heavier than the Suzuki, but 100 kg lighter than the Chery, and its engine dovetails nicely with the continuously variable auto transmission (CVT) to deliver refined cruising and impressive responsiveness when you put your foot down.
Of course, with a claimed 0-100 kph time of 11.8 sec, it’s unlikely to win many traffic-light grands prix, but for general driving, performance is spot-on, seeing as the 1.5 LX delivers impressive fuel efficiency.
Kia claims an average consumption figure of 7.2 L/100 km and, for once, we managed to achieve that level of efficiency. In fact, we bettered it… On our usual test route, the little Kia returned 6.9 L/100 km!
As an ownership proposition, the Sonet scores highly thanks to Kia’s reputation for reliability and a long warranty.
Peace of Mind
Kia has built a reputation for quality and reliability, with strong performances in JD Power surveys across the globe. During the Sonet’s tenure in our fleet, we were regularly impressed with the test unit’s build quality.
It’s one of Kia’s more affordable models, but when you’re seated behind its ‘wheel (while travelling to your next destination) you don’t get that impression, quite the contrary. Further boosting ownership confidence is an excellent 5-year/unlimited km warranty, backed with a 4-year/60 000 km service plan.
Watch Ciro De Siena’s earlier video review of the Kia Sonet 1.0T EX+
What we dislike about the Kia Sonet
Although we were impressed with the Sonet’s refinement, build quality and comfort levels, we still think Kia South Africa needs to either sharpen its pencil (make the pricing keener) – or add some features.
The staggering success of the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro, for example, is largely built on the buying public’s perception of value for money, but that model is quietly building a reputation for having other talents too.
So, Kia cannot rest on its laurels. Offering dual front airbags only in this day and age – at this price level – is not acceptable. We also missed a split-folding rear seat and reach adjustment for the steering column.
The Kia Sonet is easy to recommend, but the 1.5 LX automatic’s standard features list needs to be padded out.
Verdict
Comfortable, efficient, stylish and backed with a strong warranty, the Kia Sonet is an attractive option in the congested small crossover/compact family car segment. There is nothing inherently flawed about the car (except, perhaps, the single-piece folding rear seat); most of our criticisms are merely spec-related.
Still, the competition in this segment is fierce and, if Kia wants a bigger slice of the action, it would be well-advised to ramp up the showroom appeal of its LX trim grade. There’s a facelifted version of the Sonet on the way – wouldn’t that be the perfect opportunity to pack more value into the package?
While unlikely to go on sale in SA, the Ford Ranger MS-RT is one of the best-looking iterations of the new bakkie and we hope it inspires a local creation.
Created by Ford Pro in Europe, the Ranger MS-RT (M-Sport Road Technology), features a sporty re-design both inside and out, improved workhorse capabilities and sportier drive.
Visually, we think this is one of the best-looking Ford Rangers and while everyone loves the outrageous Raptor, this runs it very close in the design stakes. At the front, there’s a splitter and honeycomb grille which Ford Pro says is inspired by the Ranger racing series in Asia. The Ford Ranger MS-RT sits lower to the ground and there’s a neat integrated diffuser and spoiler at the rear. These aren’t just for show and there are aerodynamic benefits like additional stability.
The Ford Ranger MS-RT is also 82 mm wider and has its track width increased by 40 mm. The 21-inch diamond-cut wheels are wrapped in 275/45 R21 rubber. While it shares the same 4×4 system as the standard Rangers, the suspension has been enhances for a more dynamic drive.
Climb inside and there are new sports seats and extensive stitching in that lovely shade of Ford blue. Standard equipment like the dual-zone climate control, iPad-style infotainment system, digital instrument cluster have been carried over.
Interestingly, the Ranger MS-RT is powered by a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 diesel engine making 176 kW and 600 Nm, but instead of the 10-speed automatic that does duty in the standard Ranger, there’s an 8-speed automatic ‘box.
Hans Schep, general manager at Ford Pro Europe, said: “If Ranger Raptor is the ultimate off-road truck, then the Ranger MS-RT is the ultimate street truck.
As mentioned, the Ranger MS-RT will be sold in European markets, but that’s not going to stop us admiring it! C’mon Ford Motor Company South Africa, make us a sweet body kit for our Rangers?
New Ford Ranger and Ranger Raptor: which one should you buy?
Mahindra Global Pik Up: trademark points to new badge
What badge will the production version of the Mahindra Global Pik Up concept wear? Well, a freshly approved trademark application may provide more than just a hint…
Back in August 2023, the Mahindra Global Pik Up concept was revealed here in South Africa, with the automaker saying it had yet to settle on a name for the upcoming production version of its fresh-faced bakkie. But a newly approved trademark in India suggests the firm may have made a decision.
Yes, Mahindra has successfully trademarked the “Scorpio X” moniker with Intellectual Property India (IPI), leading Autocar Indiato speculate that it’s this badge that will be used on the new bakkie. Interestingly, the application was made back in May 2022, though the entry’s journal date of 19 February 2024 suggests it’s only just been approved.
Screengrabs from the IPI website show the Scorpio X filing (left) alongside other similar wordmarks (right).
Furthermore, upon searching IPI’s database, we found 4 more similar trademark applications from Mahindra, all also made in May 2022: Scorpio M, Scorpio L, Scorpio Z and Scorpio K. However, the status for each of these wordmarks is currently listed as “objected” rather than “accepted and advertised” (the latter being the case with the Scorpio X ).
So, what do we know about the upcoming new bakkie, which bears an internal project code of Z121 and is expected to be pitched against segment leaders such as the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger? Well, the Scorpio X – if it indeed ends up wearing that badge – will ride on a lengthened version of the Scorpio N’s ladder-frame platform while also likely inheriting a version of that SUV’s 2.2-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine.
Mahindra hopes to rival the likes of the Hilux and Ranger with its new bakkie.
Mahindra has promised it will be an “authentic lifestyle pickup”, complete with “luxurious touches”, a spacious cabin and “state-of-the-art technologies”, all while meeting “high standards of safety”. Though the Indian automaker has yet to reveal a projected launch date, Autocar India claims the bakkie will hit the market at some point in 2025.
As a reminder, this new model will be entirely separate from the current Mahindra Pik Up, which is assembled in KwaZulu-Natal and may well soldier on as a workhorse of sorts. For the record, the Pik Up placed 5th on the list of South Africa’s best-selling bakkies for 2023, with its final tally of 8 063 units representing a 0.2% year on year increase.
Lotus Eletre Video Review: Has Lotus just made the world’s best EV?
When you think of Lotus, compact and lightweight fun sportscars are the usual associations. Now Lotus has an all-electric SUV and we’ve driven it!
Colin Chapman once mentioned that the ethos of every Lotus was to simplify and add lightness. Times have certainly changed for the Lotus brand and this new Eletre is a far cry from the lightweight sportscars Lotus is well-known for producing.
Lotus has had to adapt to modern motoring requirements and the Eletre is the first attempt at an electric car and an SUV. What’s it like to drive, what’s the performance like and has Lotus designed an interior worthy of its R4 million price tag? Johnny Bravo from Wish (Ciro De Siena) susses out the newcomer and gives us his point of view on the newcomer from the British brand.
Most Powerful New Cars in South Africa for Under R1 Million
This list is for all the power-hungry new car buyers out there! What are the most powerful new cars you can buy for under R1 million in South Africa today? Take a look!
If you’re looking to buy the most powerful new cars on the market for under R1 million, what are your options?
Recently, we’ve heard many people complaining about excessively high new car prices in South Africa. No car segment has been spared and current new car pricing starts at R174 900 for the Suzuki S-Presso which is currently one of the cheapest new cars you can buy right now.
Recent price shock examples include the new Ford Puma compact crossover which is currently priced from R569 900 as well the new Honda CR-V family car which has breached the R1-million mark with a price of R1 039 900 in top-spec Exclusive guise.
Needless to say, new cars are very, very expensive but what are the most powerful new cars you can buy in South Africa for under R1 million? Let’s take a look!
Pricing is accurate as of February 2024.
Most Powerful New Cars in SA for Under R1-million
1. Volvo EX30 – 315 kW
Of all the most powerful new cars you can buy with a clip, the new Volvo EX30 electric compact SUV is by far the most powerful new car you can buy for under R1-million in South Africa.
The EX30 is offered with either a single or twin electric motor setup. The EX30 Single Motor produces 200 kW and 343 Nm of torque with a 54 kWh battery and a claimed range of 343 km while the EX30 Twin Motor produces 315 kW and 543 NM of torque and is paired with a 69 kWh battery that offers an estimated range of 460 km.
The EX30 is no slouch either and Volvo claims 5.3 seconds in the zero to 100 kph sprint for the EX30 Single Motor while the EX30 Twin Motor all-wheel-drive claims 3.4 seconds!
Pricing for the Volvo EX30 starts from R775 900 for the EX30 Core Single Motor and goes up to R995 900 for the range-topping EX30 Ultra Twin Motor Performance.
2. Volkswagen Golf R / Honda Civic Type R – 235 kW
The Volkswagen Golf R arrived in South Africa in 2023 after a lengthy launch delay and with a power output of 235 kW and 400 Nm of torque developed from its 2.0litre turbocharged petrol engine, the Golf R packs a punch, but so does its starting price of R945 100 before options. Volkswagen claims a zero to 100kph sprint time of 4.8 seconds.
Taking the fight to the Golf R is the Honda Civic Type R, a current finalist in the Performance Car category of the 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards. It too produces 235 kW and 420 Nm of torque but unlike the Golf R, is offered with a 6-speed manual transmission. Honda claims Zero to 100 kph in 5.5 seconds.
3. BMW M135i xDrive / Mini Countryman / Clubman – 225 kW
The BMW M135i xDrive is priced from R951 385 and is powered by a 2.0-litre turbopetrol engine that offers 225 kW and 450 Nm of torque. Using an 8-speed automatic transmission, the M135i xDrive is claimed to accelerate from zero to 100 kph in 4.8 seconds.
The Mini Countryman JCW and Clubman JCW are also powered by the same BMW-sourced 225 kW / 450 Nm 2.0-litre turbopetrol engine. This engine has since been uprated to produce 233 kW and is now found in the new BMW X2 M35i xDrive.
In the case of the Countryman JCW, Mini claims 5.1 seconds from zero to 100 kph while the Clubman JCW is marginally faster with a claimed time of 4.9 seconds.
4. Renault Megane RS 300 Trophy / Toyota GR Corolla – 221 kW
The Renault Megane RS 300 Trophy is the last hoorah for Renault’s front-wheel drive hot hatchback and it’s currently priced from R949 900. The Megane RS 300 Trophy gets its motivation from a 1.8-litre turbopetrol engine that develops 221 kW and 420 Nm of torque and makes use of a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Renault claims 5.7 seconds in the sprint from zero to 100 kph.
The Toyota GR Corolla is the Japanese firm’s stab at an engaging and dynamic hot hatchback and they’ve mostly nailed it. It employs the same 1.6-litre, 3-cylinder engine found in the excellent GR Yaris (198 kW) with outputs of 221 kW and 370 Nm of torque. In terms of acceleration, Toyota claims 5.2 seconds in the sprint to 100 kph.
The GR Corolla is priced from R849 400 for the GR Corolla GR-Four-Core and R911 400 for the GR Corolla GR-Four-Circuit.
Audi cracks this list with the S3 sedan and Sportback offering 213 kW and 400 Nm of torque from a 2.0-litre turbopetrol engine. Both variants claim 4.9 seconds in the zero to 100 kph sprint. The S3 Sportback is priced from R928 800 while the S3 sedan is priced from R943 800.
Renault Megane RS Trophy Video Review: Renault saves the best hot hatch for last
The Renault Megane RS 300 Trophy will be the last hot Renault as the French brand goes electric. Ciro de Siena gives the model one last blast on one of his favourite driving roads.
Renault’s hot hatch arm, Renault Sport will cease to exist as the brand enters an electric future. From the early 2000s, Renault Sport upped the hot hatch game with some incredible specimens that often wiped the floor with the competition in the front-wheel-drive handling stakes.
As the game moved on, so the hot hatch goalposts moved with it and AWD super hatches from Merc, VW and BMW became the hot ticket items that ruled the hatchback world. Renault stuck with its front-driven philosophy and continued to make cars that were thrilling to drive and defied the laws of physics at times. The Renault Megane RS Trophy is one of those cars, and one Ciro decided to take to one of his favourite roads and give it a good hammering. Watch as he decides if this might just be the best hot hatch ever.
Here’s how many EVs and hybrids were sold in SA in 2023
Just how many traditional hybrids, plug-in hybrids and fully electric vehicles were sold in South Africa in 2023? Let’s take a closer look at the official sales figures…
According to figures released by Naamsa, sales of electric vehicles (EVs), traditional hybrids and plug-in hybrids – or, to put it another way, new-energy vehicles (NEVs) – in South Africa increased 64.6% year on year to 7 693 units in 2023. It’s worth noting this growth came off the back of a year-on-year surge of 431.7% achieved in 2022.
Of course, 2023’s NEV sales tally isn’t quite as impressive when expressed as a percentage of the overall market total, which came in at 532 098 units (0.5% up, year on year). Indeed, NEVs accounted for just 1.45% of total new-vehicle sales last year, though this was at least the first breach of the 1% mark (2022’s figure was 0.88%). For the record, mild hybrids don’t appear to be included in this exercise.
Volvo says its XC60 Recharge plug-in hybrid was SA’s best-selling PHEV last year.
According to the industry representative body, 931 fully electric vehicles were registered locally in 2023, up 85.46% year on year. Volvo Car South Africa says its XC40 Recharge was the country’s top seller in this space last year, capturing 16.6% of the EV market.
The dual-powered version of the Corolla Cross accounted for nearly half of all traditional hybrid sales.
Meanwhile, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) were again considerably less popular than fully electric models, with only 267 examples sold in Mzansi during 2023. That said, local PHEV sales at least grew at a faster rate than EVs, surging 118.85% year on year. According to Volvo, the XC60 Recharge plug-in hybrid was the top seller here, followed by the XC90 Recharge plug-in hybrid.
As you’ve no doubt already worked out, that means traditional hybrids accounted for the bulk of NEV registrations in 2023, reflecting a sales total of 6 495 units (up 60.37%, year on year). Fascinatingly, dual-powered versions of the Prospecton-built Toyota Corolla Cross accounted for nearly half (at 47.10%) of all of traditional hybrid sales last year with a tally of 3 059 units, according to the Japanese firm.
