In response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, WesBank has announced relief action for its customers and partners.
As the Covid-19 pandemic deepens in South Africa, relief measures are being explored and implemented to soften the blow for both consumers and businesses. WesBank provides financial services to the Retail and Corporate market in South Africa, including Vehicle and Asset Finance, Full Maintenance Leasing and Vehicle Stock Funding.
As such, the firm has now announced relief action for individuals and business customers whose financial stability has been compromised due to COVID-19 and this relief will come into effect from 1 April to 30 June 2020.
Customers and partners who have demonstrated sound banking behaviour and honoured their repayments consistently prior to the pandemic will benefit from the intervention.
WesBank says that the type of relief and the implementation thereof will depend on the type of product that the customer holds with the firm.
If relief is granted, no fees will be charged within the above period but interest and fees will still accumulate. Customers who have been impacted are requested to contact WesBank.
Furthermore, WesBank aims to ensure that clients are able to keep their financial affairs in order during this difficult period and the firm encourages clients to honour their financial obligations in an effort to maintain a positive credit history.
WesBank, together with FirsRand Group, has further provided financial relief for its SME suppliers by paying invoices of up to R1 billion early in an effort to ensure their financial stability during this time.
WesBank has also taken time to restructure its operations to operate effectively while reducing the spread of infection and as such, 95% of WesBank’s workforce have been equipped to work from home.
Hyundai has released interior images of its new i20 compact hatchback, which is expected in South Africa in late 2020/early 2021. In keeping with its sportier exterior, the Korean firm's rival to the Ford Fiesta, Renault Clio, Suzuki Swift, Toyota Yaris and, above all, Volkswagen Polo, has a decidedly youthful – and less utilitarian – interior.
When Hyundai released official images of the next-generation i20 last month (ahead of the Geneva Show, which was subsequently cancelled), we were left feeling a trifle short-changed when there was a detailed description of the interior, but just a stylised sketch and a solitary image of the new car’s cabin.
Lower, wider and with sharper styling: the new i20 lends itself to sportier derivatives and a younger/more youthful clientele.
Perhaps the Korean firm wanted to release full details at the show (we’ll never know), but now that we’ve seen the new Elantra, which is reportedly not on the cards for South Africa, we reckon the compact sedan’s upmarket interior would have seemed rather derivative of the i20’s smart cabin design…
Like its Venue sibling, the i20 in the SA market is sourced from Hyundai’s Indian factory. Reports from the subcontinent suggest the new i20 will become available there in June and, hopefully, it will arrive in local showrooms early next year, if not a little sooner. Its arrival date will depend on several factors, including how long it takes to contain the COVID-19 outbreak, the local stock levels of the existing model and, to a large extent, an improvement in the current rand/dollar exchange rate, which has notably weakened after Moody’s downgraded SA’s sovereign credit rating to “junk” status at the weekend.
The dual-tone paint scheme is becoming increasingly popular as an option; note the black trim strip in the middle of the tailgate.
But it is coming! The new i20’s arrival will be preceded by the mid-year introduction of the new Grand i10 budget hatchback and the launch of the next-generation Creta around the end of the 3rd quarter. After the all-new Creta (also sourced from India), the i20 will be 2nd Hyundai on the South African market to incorporate the brand's new "Sensuous Sportiness" design language.
Hyundai says the i20’s interior is meant to have “a spacious, airy atmosphere… offer modern aesthetics and all the tech features available.” It certainly looks the part!
We don't expect the digital instrument cluster to be offered in SA, but the touchscreen and climate control console are tastefully integrated into the fascia.
As these pictures show, the newcomer's fascia design is sweeping – characterised by a quartet of vents hidden in the expansive bank of black blades that stretch from one end of the cabin to the other. It’s a little less driver-focused than in the new Elantra; the touchscreen and climate control console are angled only slightly towards the 4-spoke steering wheel.
In the top specification, the interior comes equipped with, inter alia, a digital instrument cluster, a 10.25-inch infotainment system, keyless entry and push-button start, automatic climate control, fast-charging as well as auxiliary USB ports, a 12V power outlet, a wireless charging pad, PDC (in conjunction with a reverse-view camera), while a Bose audio system with 8 speakers is optional.
Note how the door handle surround is ribbed to mimic the pattern of the louvred ventilation outlets and decorative dash trim.
We hasten to note, however, that the specification of the local i20 range has always been more prudent (value-oriented) than luxurious; the local compact hatchback market is very competitive and particularly price-sensitive…
We’d like to see nice-to-have features such as the LED mood lighting, a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment screen with extended features and even the ‘charging pad, but even though the new model will be smarter inside than its predecessor, it’s more than likely, however, that derivatives in our market will have analogue instruments (albeit in conjunction of a TFT driver info display) and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system… but one that is nonetheless compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
This European-spec model features a 60/40 split seatback. Check out the Bose subwoofer on the left side of the luggage bay.
We already know that the i20 is lower (by 24 mm), wider (by 30 mm) and 5-mm longer than its predecessor, but its wheelbase has been lengthened by 10 mm to marginally increased rear legroom. Claimed luggage space has also been increased (by approximately 66 litres) to 351 litres, but we don’t know whether that takes into account the extra underfloor storage space shown on this Euro-spec version; it may be equipped with a space-saver spare wheel.
We will, however, confidently speculate on the engine line-up. Whereas the current range’s entry-level 1.2-litre 4-cylinder engine (mated with a 5-speed manual ‘box) will be carried over remains to be seen – it will depend if Hyundai South Africa has fleet aspirations for the new range or don’t mind a potential overlap with the top-end of the Grand i10 line-up. However, it’s very likely that the now ubiquitous 1.0-litre 3-cylinder turbopetrol motor, which produces 88 kW and 172 Nm – will debut in the new range, in combination with a 6-speed manual and 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmissions.
Rear occupants are afforded slightly more legroom than before. We hope the contrast stitching is offered on local models too.
As for the safety specification, we hope that the new range will feature stability control over and above ABS with EBD (as is the case in the recently-launched Venue). Only the top-spec 1.0T Glide derivative of that compact family car range features more than 2 airbags and a 60/40 split rear seatback – hopefully, if the new i20 does the same on the former (front- and front passenger airbags), it might offer the latter as standard? Fingers crossed.
We’ll bring you more information on the new i20’s range expected date of arrival (EDA) and launch line-up as soon as details become available.
Toyota is making tweaks to its new upcoming crossover model.
Picture credit: S. Baldauf/SB-Medien. We have paid for these photos and at the photographer's request, have watermarked them.
We were looking forward to seeing the new Toyota crossover which was meant to be revealed at the cancelled Geneva Motor Show but the official reveal has now been postponed due to the COVID-19 crisis.
Nonetheless, Toyota appears to be using the extra time to conduct a few chassis tests for its new model. The unnamed model will rival cars such as the Renault Captur, Ford Ecosport, Mazda CX-3 and Volkswagen T-Cross, to name a few.
Seen here is a test mule wearing the camouflaged body of the previous Yaris testing in the Arctic Circle. With that said, the production model is likely to look very different when it finally arrives.
The new crossover will be based on the same TNGA-B platform as the new Yaris and is expected to powered by a 1.5-litre petrol hybrid powertrain coupled with all-wheel-drive capability. Some markets, however, may get 1.0-litre turbopetrol engines to power the new crossover. A choice of either a manual and CVT is also expected.
The new model will be revealed later this year and will go on sale in 2021.
We will keep you updated soon as more details become available.
Think of it as a Type-R SUV that's bigger than a Fortuner.
Honda has revealed an updated version of its Avancier large luxury SUV.
Built on a more robust version of the company’s Accord platform, Avancier challenges perceptions of Honda as a conservative brand.
The Avancier now boasts a new radiator grille design, reshaped bumpers and improved LED lights. Around the rear, there are dual exhaust ends.
If you thought that Honda could not trade in the market for larger SUVs, well, think again. The Avancier is 4.85 m bumper-to-bumper, which makes it longer than something like BMW’s X3 or Toyota’s Fortuner.
Honda’s generously equipped the Avancier inside, with plush leather seats and a huge touchscreen infotainment system. Inductive device charging is also present and there is no traditional shift selector. Honda’s Avancier is gear-selected using buttons, instead of a conventional shifter, to free up stowage space between the front seats.
Mechanically, the Avancier features two petrol engine options. Prospective owners have the option of a 1.5-litre turbo, good for 142 kW and 240 Nm. The 1.5-litre engine drives Avancier’s front wheels via a CVT transmission.
The most interesting engine is a slightly detuned version of the Civic Type-R 2-litre, producing 200 kW and 370 Nm. All-wheel drive is optional on the 2-litre Avancier models, which all drive through a ZF nine-speed automatic transmission.
Honda limits the distribution of the Avancier to China, which is a shame. There is much to like about this large SUV. It has a potent 2-litre turbocharged engine, very comfortably appointed cabin and Honda design logic.
The Avancier could enliven Honda’s reputation in countries where it hasn’t captured any large SUV market presence. If the Japanese company does decide to perhaps market this upgrade of the second-generation Avancier, a bit wider than China, it could be quite successful.
A report from Australia suggests the Toyota Hilux is scheduled for an update. Here's what we know so far.
The article first appeared in CarAdvice.com.au and suggested the facelift was to happen in July 2020. There are numerous changes on the cards such as a power increase to the 2.8-litre GD-6 motor as well as the addition of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It's easy to see why these changes are coming as the Ford Ranger was substantially updated in 2019 and there's a new Isuzu D-Max on its way in 2021. Expect a few cosmetic changes too.
It's interesting to note that Aussie-spec Toyota Hilux models feature the Toyota Safety Sense tech, which SA-spec models don't have yet. You're likely wondering if it has anything to do with South Africa, but given the fact the Aussie car market is quite similar to ours, we thought we'd reach out to Toyota South Africa for an official comment. Like South Africa, Australia is also obsessed with bakkies and the Hilux is one of their top-selling vehicles. A spokesperson from Toyota South Africa had this to say, "We will be getting those models but not now. Our timing is quite different to Australia as they don’t source their vehicles from SA. In addition, SA-unique models like the Legend 50 and Dakar models bridge the gap and extend the life of our current Hilux product offerings."
So the South African market will get a facelift Toyota Hilux, but not immediately.
We're happy to report some good news in these tough times. There will be a massive price reduction in the petrol and diesel price in April 2020.
According to the Automobile Association (AA), "unleaded 95 petrol is set for a stunning R2.18 per-litre drop, with 93 set to decrease by R2.05. Both grades of diesel are expected to fall by around R1.65, with illuminating paraffin down R1.98." In reality, the petrol price reduction will be slightly less as the 16 cent fuel levy and 9 cent Road Accident Fund levy will be coming into play.
Still, the reduction is needed as economic conditions are expected to be challenging over the next few months due to COVID-19. The main reason behind this drop is the crude oil price war between Saudi Arabia and Russia, as well as the reduced demand for oil as most countries are in some form of lockdown. Despite the Rands fall against the US Dollar which usually stops price reductions, the massive decrease is still on the cards for the first week in April 2020.
"It is unfortunate that these massive reductions are coming at a time where private motoring is severely curtailed, but we would remind motorists that in terms of the lockdown regulations, they are still allowed to fill up their vehicles," said the AA.
Audi's Q3 has finally landed in SA. It's on sale with only 1 drivetrain option but is that going to be a deterrent to buyers in a segment where looks and style trump performance?
We attended the international launch of this car in the middle of 2018 and so it feels a bit odd to only be publishing our full review on local soil now, nearly 2 years later.
However, the car was massively delayed in reaching South Africa and so the Audi Q3 is still fairly fresh on the scene. Importantly, it represents a strong rival in the segment and recently walked away with the Cars.co.za Consumer Award in the Crossover category at this year's ceremony.
This segment of the market is becoming increasingly popular as motorists buy down from more expensive segments, tempted by lower price tags but increasingly feature-rich cars such as the Volvo XC40, BMW X1 and Jaguar E-Pace.
In this video, Ciro De Siena takes a very detailed look at the Q3 35 TFSI S Line variant, and hopefully, by the end of this video you'll have learned everything you need to know to help you make your purchasing decision.
The new 12th-generation Toyota Corolla has arrived in South Africa. What are the key differences between the outgoing Corolla and its successor?
The Toyota Corolla is an iconic vehicle globally, with more than 45-million Corollas sold worldwide. Toyota goes on to make the claim that it's the best-selling car, ever. Locally, the Toyota Corolla has a long history in South Africa too, more than 40 years, in fact, starting with the introduction and local production of the third-generation Corolla in 1973.
In March 2020, Toyota South Africa introduced the 12th-generation Corolla sedan. We mention sedan, as Toyota South Africa also sells a Corolla hatchback, which we've had some experience with. There's also the Corolla Quest, a pocket-friendly model. What has changed between the 11th-generation Toyota Corolla and the 12th-generation Corolla?
Toyota Corolla Key Changes
Dimensions
The 12th-generation Corolla is built on Toyota’s New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, which the Japanese brand says gives it better driving characteristics and focuses on more comfort. Due to a platform change, the dimensions of the Toyota Corolla have changed albeit slightly. The outgoing model had a height/width//length/wheelbase of 1 465mm, 1 775mm, 4 620mm and 2 700mm respectively. In comparison, the newcomer has a height/width//length/wheelbase of 1 435mm, 1 780 mm, 4 630mm and 2 700mm. There's not much difference here, but Toyota claims an improvement in luggage capacity with 470 litres being available over the outgoing Corolla's 452 litres.
Engines
There was an assortment of both petrol and diesel options for the 11th-generation Toyota Corolla. The range started with a 1.3-litre derivative with 73 kW and 128 Nm of torque, moving up to a 1.6-litre engine with 90 kW and 154 Nm. At the top of the petrol pile was the 1.8-litre engine with 103 kW and 173 Nm. For those favouring low economy and strong in-gear shove, there was a 66 kW 205 Nm 1.4-litre turbodiesel engine. Both a manual gearbox and a CVT were offered.
The 12th-generation Toyota Corolla has 2 engine options, both of which are petrol. At the entry point is a 104 kW / 171 Nm 1.8-litre naturally-aspirated petrol engine. The second engine is a new 2.0-litre petrol engine which offers 125 kW and 200 Nm. A CVT is exclusive to the entry-level 12th-generation Corolla, while the top-spec model has the choice of either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 10-step CVT. If you're hopeful for turbocharged engines, then you'll have to look to the Corolla hatchback range with the 85 kW/185 Nm 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol motor.
Cabin and Features
The 11th generation of Toyota Corolla was offered in Esteem, Prestige and Exclusive levels of trim, with a limited-edition Prestige Plus trim coming in the middle of the product lifecycle. It covered the basics with things like LED daytime running lights, 6 airbags, and multifunction steering wheel, USB/Aux/Bluetooth connectivity across the range. The top-spec Exclusive boasted niceties like climate control, auto wipers, keyless entry as well as additional airbags.
The new 12th-generation Toyota Corolla is offered in 2 trim grades: Corolla XS and the range-topping Corolla XR. The XS trim grade includes features such as LED headlights, push-button start, cruise control, automatic climate control, a reverse camera, multi-information display, steering wheel controls with voice control and the aforementioned Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality. In terms of safety, a total of 7 airbags are fitted as well as an electronic parking brake, Hill Assist Control and Vehicle Stability Control. The top-spec Corolla XR gains features such as Bi-LED headlights with automatic high-beam, smart entry, two-tone 18-inch alloy wheels, electro-chromatic rear-view mirror, combination leather upholstery, paddle shifters (CVT only) and Toyota’s Safety Sense System.
Tech
The tech and connectivity depart was one area where Toyota lagged behind its rivals, but with the new 12th-generation Corolla all has been forgiven as it ships standard with a digital dashboard as well as a new touchscreen infotainment unit. This new setup also includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so you make the most of services like Google Maps and music streaming apps like Spotify. Most importantly, it's great to see the addition of some modern safety kit added to the Corolla. As mentioned earlier, the top-spec Corolla comes with Toyota Safety Sense, which includes things like Pre-Crash activation, Blind Spot Monitor, Adaptive All-Speed Cruise Control and Lane Departure Alert.
Final Thoughts
The 12th-generation Toyota Corolla has arrived in South African showrooms and should be on sale by the time you read this. Many of you have commented that the newcomer has become quite expensive, but we can see why as it is a big step up from the previous model. The addition of new safety tech and connectivity brings it right up to date.
Cleverly, this pricing strategy has opened the door for a pocket-friendly version of the Corolla. introducing the Toyota Corolla Quest, a locally-assembled model based on the outgoing derivative. It doesn't have all the boys and whistles unlike the new 12th-generation model, but has a 1.8-litre petrol engine and is still as good to drive. You can read a comprehensive review of that model here.
Toyota Corolla Price in South Africa
The new Toyota Corolla is sold with a 3-year/100 000 km warranty and a 6-service/90 000 km service plan.
Drastic times call for drastic measures and your budget 'skedonk' ain't going to cut it any longer! In an apocalypse, you will need something far more hardcore, something that will help you survive… Here is our list of ideal vehicles that will help you to survive an apocalypse! What would be your first choice?
We live in a crazy world and with South Africans on lockdown as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak, life as we knew it is history.
However, that doesn’t mean we can’t have fun and amidst all the chaos, our imagination drifts into an apocalyptic world where your cheapy is finally relegated to the scrap heap in favour of something more capable and more hardcore in an effort to survive. What would you choose to drive?
To ensure survival, we think the ideal vehicle for an apocalypse needs to be well-equipped to tackle tough terrain while also offering features that could help you survive.
In no particular order, here is a list of 10 vehicles that we think would make for awesome rides in an apocalyptic world.
Brabus 800 Adventure XLP
This list wouldn't be complete without the formidable offroad capability of the Mercedes-Amg G63 and in extreme conditions, we call upon this, the Brabus 800 Adventure XLP!
Using the mighty G63 AMG as a base, the Brabus 800 Adventure XLP has all the power you will need with a beefed-up 588 kW and 1 000 Nm of torque on offer from its twin-turbocharged V8 engine and will smash zero to 100 kph in just 4.8 seconds.
Need to deliver food to your family and friends in a remote location? No problem! This vehicle has a loadbed which is equipped with a landing and take-off module for a Wingcopter which can fly at speeds up to 240 kph and has a 120 km range to get supplies to remote areas. Four mounted LED lights provide lighting for driving in the dark.
Inside, you can expect some of the finest finishes in the business to make sure that you are comfortable in your quest to survive…
Ford Ranger Raptor by APG
Now for something more accessible to the masses – the Ford Ranger Raptor. It might not be as glamorous as the G63 above but it has exceptional high-speed offroading abilities that will help you cover tough terrain quickly. The raptor makes use of a 2.0-litre bi-turbocharged diesel engine with 157 kW and 500 Nm of torque and is mated with a new 10-speed automatic transmission.
However, for added capability, we feel the upgrades offered by California-based tuning company, APG, are more useful in the event of an apocalypse. The standard FOX position-sensitive damping (PSD) shock absorbers have been modified with APG’s long-travel which includes new upper and lower control arms as well as extended tie rods and CV shafts which, in combination, increase ground clearance from 283 mm to a stilted 318 mm.
Don’t forget to engage Baja mode as often as you can and enjoy high-speed offroad drifting while you at it.
Oh, and watch our Ford Ranger Raptor video review below while you at it!
BMW X5 Protection VR6
The BMW X5 has all the luxuries you need wrapped in a stylish body, but this X5 Protection VR6 is built to keep you and your passengers safe from a range of external threats. To achieve high levels of protection, this X5 VR6 features 35 mm thick safety glass and body armour and can withstand hand grenade attacks, AK-47 assault and resist a 15 kg TNT explosion from 4-metres away. Also, you can spec your X5 VR6 with an armoured roof that can withstand drone attacks.
In terms of capability, a 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, boosting 390 kW and 750 Nm is fitted.
Rezvani Tank
Let’s up the ante with the hardcore and aptly-named Tank produced by California-based firm, Rezvani. Power comes from a 373 kW 6.4-litre V8 engine as standard (a 746 kW supercharged 6.2-litre V8 is optional), on-command 4×4 capability, a top-end FOX off-road suspension system and GRID off-road wheels.
But that’s only the start of it, the Tank has an array of equipment that makes it the perfect vehicle for surviving an apocalypse. The Tank is equipped with high-intensity LED lighting, a thermal night vision system and even an electromagnetic pulse protection system.
If you upgrade to the military-spec Tank, you will gain bulletproof body armour and glass, explosive protection, a smokescreen, military run-flat tyres, self-sealing fuel tank and a survival kit with gas masks, to name but a few…
If you are after a bad-ass vehicle to survive just about anything, then the Rezvani Tank is a good bet…
Lamborghini Huracan Sterrato
Although an unlikely candidate for an apocalypse and while it’s not the most hardcore option on this list, it’s certainly the fastest! The Lamborghini Huracan Sterrato is based on the Huracan Evo but features a few modifications to help it cope offroad. These features include a raised ground clearance (+47 mm), carbon-fibre fender protectors and LED light bars on the roof and bonnet. Gravel stone chips are kept in check with inconspicuous mud flaps and tracking width has been increased by 30 mm for added stability. The Sterrato rolls 20-inch wheels wrapped in high- volume tyres to tackle offroad terrain.
The Sterrato also features a recalibrated version of the Huracán Evo’s Lamborghini Dinamica Veicolo Integrata (LDVI) master algorithm, with driving modes better suited to loose surfaces and the car’s higher centre of gravity.
The best part, however, is engine performance with no less than 470 kW and 600 Nm developed by its 5.2-litre naturally-aspirated V10 engine.
If you need a to make a fast get-away, this Lambo will oblige with a zero to 100 kph sprint time of around 2.9 seconds!
Toyota Hilux Arctic Trucks AT35
Made famous by BBC’s Top Gear Polar Special, the Arctic Trucks Toyota Hilux is built to conquer the toughest terrain on earth and its capability has been proven with over 300 000 km’s driven to both poles and even across all 7 continents.
Combining the Hilux’s formidable offroad capability and expertise from adventure specialists, Arctic Trucks, this Hilux is built to perform in extreme conditions. Based on the current-generation Hilux, the Arctic Trucks Hilux AT35 features a performance suspension which raises ground clearance by an additional 40 mm over the standard 284 mm to 326 mm. In combination with 17-inch offset alloy wheels shod with 35-inch tyres, the Arctic Trucks Hilux AT35 is near-unstoppable over difficult terrain.
A reliable 2.4-litre turbodiesel engine with 110 kW and 400 Nm does duty under the bonnet and comes mated with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
If on doubt, this Hilux will serve you well…
Karlmann King Ground Stealth Fighter
The Karlmann King Ground Stealth Fighter is a luxury SUV featuring a striking diamond bulletproof armour and is powered by a powerful 6.8-litre V10 engine producing 268 kW and 620 Nm of torque. Weighing in at 6-tonnes, this SUV can only reach a top speed of 140 kph but can operate in temperatures of up to 90°C and -40°C.
While you focus on surviving, the Ground Stealth Fighter will take care of your needs by offering a range of luxury features for the well-heeled. Apart from a lavishly styled cabin, features include a limousine-like rear passenger cell that’s equipped with a retractable wide-screen television, a Nespresso machine, a mini-fridge, a small safe and pop-out tables.
The Karlmann King Ground Stealth Fighter is ideal for those who can’t do without luxury and opulence, even in tough times…
Tesla Cybertruck
If we had to choose an electric vehicle to survive the apocalypse (and provided that electricity is available) the Tesla Cybertruck would be a good choice. Built with ultra-hard, cold-rolled stainless steel and boasting a range of over 800 km while offering sportscar performance (zero 100 kph is claimed at 2.9 seconds), the Cybertruck looks like its built for the apocalypse. Admittedly, the interior isn’t as lavishly-equipped as other options on this list but a super-size 17-inch touchscreen will keep you entertained. The Tesla Cybertruck can be had as a single motor rear-wheel drive, dual-motor all-wheel drive and a tri-motor all-wheel drive, but for maximum performance, we opt for the latter.
Nikola Badger
This badass truck is the Nikola Badger which combines a 150 kWh battery pack and a 120 kW fuel cell to develop substantial outputs of 675 kW and 1 320 Nm of torque which results in a zero to 100 kph sprint time of around 2.9 seconds. More so, a range of 1 000 km is particularly useful. The Badger also boasts a towing capacity of up to 8-tons!
For outdoor applications, a 15 kW power outlet can power things like power tools and mini compressors. It can also act as a generator delivering power when there isn’t any.
The Badger definitely looks built-for-purpose too…
Mercedes-Benz Unimog
The Unimog is perhaps the most capable and respected offroader on the planet Earth and serves as a formidable overland vehicle. The modern Unimog is powered by either a 4- or 5.0-litre litre turbodiesel engine offering up to 170 kW and 900 Nm of torque. All-wheel-drive offroad capability is ensured with portal axles, dual differential locks and a central tyre inflation system.
The Unimog is also highly adaptable and can be converted to suit your every need, making it the perfect basis for a mobile home.
What other cool apocalypse survival cars would you add to this list?
All-new Pajero will be a… plug-in hybrid?
If the Land Rover Defender and Mercedes-Benz G-Class can be reinvented after several decades (admittedly, the former more so than the latter), then surely the Mitsubishi Pajero, the 4th generation of which debuted as long ago as 2006, could get a new lease of life too…
Although Mitsubishi’s revered off-roader has received several update packages to (at least try to) keep up with the times, it was widely believed that Pajero’s production run would finally come to an end when a Final Edition derivative – limited to just 700 units – was released in the Japanese market last year. The Pajero remains listed on Mitsubishi Motors SA’s website for the moment, but there has been no talk of an all-new model to replace the venerable SUV.
And now, all of a sudden, the Japanese motoring news site Spyder7 is reporting that an all-new Pajero model, styled along the lines of the Concept GC-PHEV (pictured), which appeared on the international show circuit from 2013 to 2015, will be revealed in “late 2021 or 2022”.
According to the site, the new Pajero will adopt a new-generation ladder-frame chassis and longer wheelbase, but it will have roughly the same dimensions as the current model… The retention of a body-on-chassis configuration, better space utilisation and improved overall rigidity will undoubtedly please luxury SUV clientele, as well as the off-roading fraternity.
But what of the plug-in hybrid powertrain, then? Well, the report claims that Mitsubishi, which already offers the Outlander in that configuration in some markets, will equip the new Pajero with a 2.4-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine combined with a pair of electric motors. The optimal electric-only range is expected to be about 75 km, which is more than the 65 km of Outlander PHEV, the report says.
Seven years seems like an eternity in car-design terms (that’s how long the Concept GC-PHEV has been around), but then again, the Pajero’s overall shape, much like that of the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado (and its bigger brother, the 200), Range Rover and Mercedes-Benz G-Class seems to the relentless onslaught of time.
Therefore, the next-generation Pajero is bound to retain the current model’s overall blocky shape with short overhangs and a bluff front end. We imagine the concept's "Dynamic Shield" front-end treatment, with the overt chromed grille with a trio of crossbars is bound to be retained.
Spyder7 further suggests the next Pajero will incorporate the Concept GC-PHEV’s enlarged three-quarter lights, adopt a side character line that “follows the flow of Mitsubishi cars” and the shape of the tail-light clusters will be more akin those of the facelifted Pajero Sport’s “vertical design with the aim of improving rear visibility… (the rear-end) is likely to (look) quite aggressive and powerful.”
If Mitsubishi seeks to evolve the next-generation Pajero into a Premium SUV – the new Defender, capable as it is, has also moved upmarket, for example – it makes sense that the petrol-powered derivative would be offered with hybridisation (plug-in or otherwise) for the sake of fuel economy and, of course, remaining competitive in a cut-throat luxury SUV market…
We would not be too surprised, however, if Mitsubishi also retained the 3.2-litre turbodiesel and 5-speed automatic transmission, in conjunction with the current model's proven off-road underpinnings and onboard systems, to appease seasoned off-roaders. After all, the Pajero nameplate has a lot of brand cachet in off-roading circles… Mitsubishi will, in all likelihood, be keen to leverage that. We guess that's why the ladder-frame construction will live on…
