Toyota Starlet – Standard Safety Features in South Africa
Is the Toyota Starlet a safe car? While the Starlet hasn’t yet been crash-tested by Global NCAP, we examine its standard safety features in South Africa…
So, you’re in the market for a new budget car and the latest Toyota Starlet ranks towards the very top of your shopping list. The question is, just how safe is the Starlet hatchback and what safety features come standard in South Africa?
Well, since Global NCAP has yet to crash-test the Starlet, no official safety rating is available. But we can form a fair idea of this model’s safety credentials by examining its specification sheet.
As a reminder, the Starlet is based on the WB2-series Suzuki Baleno. It’s built by Maruti Suzuki at the Gujarat plant in India, a country in which the Starlet is badged as the Glanza. The safety features detailed below pertain to this generation and not the WB1-series Starlet sold locally from September 2020 to around the middle of 2022.
Standard Active Safety Features
Let’s start with the Starlet’s active safety features. These are designed to help avoid a crash altogether (or at least help the driver reduce the impact). In South Africa, all 5 derivatives in the Toyota Starlet range – that is, the Xi, XS and XR grades – ship standard with electronic stability control (ESC).
Other active safety features included on all Starlet variants are ABS with EBD (which helps prevent the wheels from locking up under hard braking), Brake Assist and Hill Assist Control. However, since this is a budget car at heart, the Starlet does without more advanced active safety features like autonomous emergency braking, lane-departure warning and driver-drowsiness detection.
Standard Passive Safety Features
Passive safety features, meanwhile, help to protect the vehicle’s occupants during a crash. Here, the Starlet lists dual front airbags (for the Xi and XS grades; more on the XR shortly) along with ISOfix child-seat anchors and standard 3-point seatbelts, including for the centre-rear passenger.
The rear seatbelts come with emergency locking retractors (ELRs), while the front items add a pretensioner and a force limiter. Toyota also includes a seatbelt reminder system, monitoring all 5 seats in the vehicle.
Other Important Safety Kit in the Starlet
In addition, rear parking sensors are included as standard across the Starlet line-up. These detect objects behind the vehicle (when the transmission is in reverse gear) and alert the driver to potential hazards. Manual child locks for the rear doors are another basic safety feature. For the record, an immobiliser and alarm are also part of the package.
Extra Safety Features for the Starlet XR Grade
Buyers who stretch to the Starlet’s flagship XR trim level will gain some extra safety kit. For instance, while the Xi and XS grades make do with dual front airbags, the XR adds side and curtain items to take its total to 6 airbags. That, of course, makes the XR better suited to family duties since the rear passengers benefit from airbag coverage, too.
Furthermore, the Starlet XR scores a reverse-view camera, in addition to the rear parking sensors mentioned above. This specification level additionally boasts an electro-chromatic rear-view mirror rather than the manually operated “day and night” item fitted to lower-spec derivatives.
Toyota Starlet: Summary on Safety
So, is the SA-spec Toyota Starlet safe? Well, an independent, comprehensive crash test is arguably the best way of answering that question, though the Starlet has unfortunately yet to undergo such an evaluation. Still, we can certainly commend Toyota for including items like stability control as standard across the range. That said, we’d also like to see 6 airbags included on all derivatives.
1. What engine does the Toyota Starlet have? The Toyota Starlet is powered by a naturally aspirated 1.5-litre petrol that offers 77 kW and 138 Nm and is paired with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission.
2. Is the Toyota Starlet a good car? Yes, the Toyota Starlet is generally considered to be a good choice in the compact hatchback segment.
3. Where is the Toyota Starlet built? The Toyota Starlet is built alongside the Suzuki Baleno at Suzuki’s plant in Gujarat, India.
How well did the Hyundai Alcazar sell in its 1st full month?
How well did the Hyundai Alcazar sell in South Africa in May 2025, its 1st full month on the local market? Here’s a quick look at the sales figures…
The Hyundai Alcazar launched in South Africa towards the middle of April 2025, effectively arriving as a facelifted version of the Grand Creta. So, how well did this fresh-faced 7-seater crossover sell in May 2025, its first full month on the local market?
Well, according to figures reported to industry representative body Naamsa, Hyundai Automotive SA sold 86 units of the Alcazar in May 2025. This comes after the South Korean firm registered 78 units locally in the prior month, taking its total to 164 units (all sold via the dealer channel).
Interestingly, May 2025 turned out to be Hyundai Automotive SA’s best single-month sales performance since March 2022. The automaker’s local division enjoyed a month-on-month increase of 8.1% to reach 3 251 units and retain 4th position on the list of South Africa’s best-selling automakers.
For the record, zero units of the outgoing Grand Creta were sold in Mzansi in March 2025, with a combined 120 examples registered in the year’s opening 2 months. In 2024, meanwhile, Hyundai Automotive SA sold 727 units of the Grand Creta, peaking at 113 units in May of that year.
As a reminder, the Alcazar range comprises 3 derivatives, with Hyundai Automotive SA effectively trimming the starting price (compared with the Grand Creta) by some R20 600 to R499 900. It should be noted, however, that the while the Grand Creta came standard with a 4-year/60 000 km service plan, the Alcazar’s parameters have been cut to 3 years or 45 000 km.
The base derivative is powered by an unchanged naturally aspirated 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine, again delivering 117 kW and 191 Nm to the front axle (though now exclusively via a 6-speed automatic transmission). The listed fuel-consumption figure is 7.5 L/100 km.
The remaining 2 variants both use Hyundai’s 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel motor. This engine is likewise unchanged and thus offers 84 kW and 250 Nm to the front wheels through a 6-speed auto gearbox, sipping at a claimed 5.9 L/100 km.
The Mercedes-AMG CLE53 Coupe has arrived in SA, powered by a mildly electrified 3.0-litre inline-6 engine. Here’s what this 2-door performance variant costs…
Yes, Mercedes-Benz South Africa has added another derivative to its line-up of Affalterbach-fettled performance variants, with the Mercedes-AMG CLE53 Coupe being the latest to arrive.
Revealed late in 2023, the Mercedes-AMG CLE53 is offered in Europe in both the coupe and cabriolet body styles. However, for now at least, only the hardtop version is available locally. It slots in above the CLE200 and CLE300, which are sold in both body styles in SA.
The CLE53 Coupe employs the Three-pointed Star’s familiar turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-6 engine, but in this instance, it is equipped with a mild-hybrid system with an integrated starter generator that can “briefly” supply an additional 17 kW and 205 Nm. That gives Mercedes-AMG’s newcomer combined peak outputs of 347 kW and 600 Nm (on overboost, which ‘Benz says is available for 12 seconds).
Another business-class coupe that famously trades on its turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-6 is, of course, the BMW M440i xDrive coupe; it is also equipped with all-wheel drive and delivers 285 kW/500 Nm. Although the M440i’s rival offers 62 kW and 100 Nm more, BMW fans may argue that it would be fairer to compare the Bimmer’s outputs with the Benz’s non-EQ-boosted figures (330 kW/560 Nm), so 45 kW and 60 Nm less. Also, note that the BMW, at R1 499 607 (June 2025), costs R587k less than the Benz.
The CLE53 Coupe has a 9-speed automatic transmission, mated with a fully variable AMG Performance 4Matic+ all-wheel-drive system. The 0-100 kph sprint is said to take 4.2 sec (compared with the BMW M440 xDrive’s 4.5 sec), while, like the Bimmer, the CLE53 Coupe’s top speed is electronically limited to 250 kph (if you pay R41 500 for the optional AMG Driver’s Package that figure will increase to 270 kph).
In South Africa, standard features for the CLE53 include items like AMG Ride Control suspension, rear-axle steering, 19-inch AMG 10-spoke light-alloy wheels, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, electrically adjustable (and heated) front seats, a rear-view camera, wireless smartphone charging and the MBUX multimedia system.
Meanwhile, several options are available, including a handful of exterior styling packs (headlined by the “AMG Exterior Carbon-Fibre Package I” for R64 500) and various wheel designs (culminating in 20-inch AMG cross-spoke forged wheels for R52 000).
There are also plenty of individual extras on offer, such as a panoramic sliding sunroof (R33 000), the AMG Performance Seat Package Advanced (R52 000), a head-up display (R23 000) and a Burmester 3D surround-sound system (R26 000).
What does the Mercedes-AMG CLE53 Coupe cost in SA?
As a newcomer to the congested small crossover segment, the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport faces stiff competition, but its packaging and value proposition are undeniably attractive. We review the range-topping 1.5 Exceed derivative.
We like: Exceptional value, interior fit and finish, fuel efficiency, road manners.
We don’t like: Not the fastest thing around, no ADAS.
After soldiering on with the ASX for a long time, Japanese brand Mitsubishi finally has a new model with which to compete in the sub-R500k small crossover/compact family car segment of the South African new-vehicle market. It’s the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, which is known as the Xforce in other markets.
There are 4 derivatives in the line-up of the Indonesian-built Outlander Sport. Prices (in June 2025) start from R430k and go up to just under R500k for the flagship Exceed derivative, which we review here.
The model, which shares its platform with the 7-seat Xpander Cross, is powered by a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine that drives the front wheels via a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).
The Outlander Sport’s exterior styling won over quite a few onlookers during its tenure in our test fleet.
Mitsubishi has applied its bold “Robust and Ingenious” design language – characterised by the “Dynamic Shield” front-end execution – to make its new Triton and SUV models look distinctive, but the Japanese brand’s compact models have tended to look less than modern, chic and desirable. Well, no more.
Whereas some small crossovers have eye-catching styling, most of them look derivative, utilitarian and inoffensive, at best. Style may be subjective, but the Outlander Sport looks fresh and spunky; while the 1.5 Exceed was in our test fleet, several onlookers made positive comments about its appearance.
The model is named Outlander Sport in our market, but Xforce in others.
This segment is packed with competitively priced, quality offerings; consumers are spoiled for choice.
We’ve included what we regard as the segment’s main protagonists above, but also consider the Korean cousins: Kia Seltos and Hyundai Creta, as well as Renault’s Captur and Duster duo. To reiterate, there is a plethora of accomplished models (all well matched in terms of features and powertrains) to choose from.
How the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport fares in terms of…
Features and Practicality
If you glance at the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport‘s spec sheet, you’ll see all 4 variants are well-appointed with convenience, tech and safety features; even the GL and GLS variants aren’t sparsely specced.
The Outlander Sport has a modern, well-made and tech-laden cabin.
Still, we think buyers should aim for the Aspire and Exceed variants. They come fitted with pleasant synthetic leather seats, keyless entry, cruise control, dual-zone climate control, a wireless charger, USB-A and USB-C charging ports, auto lights and wipers, a powered tailgate, and ambient cabin lighting.
For a R20k premium over the Aspire, this derivative – the flagship 1.5 Exceed – mainly offers a better-than-expected Yamaha Premium Dynamic audio system, which is equipped with 8 speakers.
The top-of-the-range 1.5 Exceed comes equipped with a surprisingly good audio system.
For “the digitally savvy”, the infotainment system incorporates wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, and our takeaway is that Mitsubishi has laced the modern, well-laid-out interior with convenience features.
Sure, some would say the infotainment system (unlike anything we’ve experienced before) is gimmicky, but it’s intuitive enough, plus our team liked it. With the Top Gun intro music blasting through the Yamaha system, the Avionics mode (for critical car functions, shown below) created a fun, nostalgic ambience.
With Avionic mode activated, you’e, um, cleared for takeoff!
The cabin’s build quality is impressive for this price point, and ergonomics are sound. To avoid a boring monotone finish, Mitsubishi placed a grey-fabric-covered strip across the dashboard, as well as a neat light-brown inlay, which adds interesting contrast. We do wonder how long it’ll all stay clean, though.
In terms of safety equipment, the 1.5 Exceed features 6 airbags, stability control, hill-start assist, rear parking sensors, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot warning, and tyre-pressure sensors. We would have liked to see automatic emergency braking included, but understand that that would have hiked the price.
When it comes to practicality, the Outlander Sport gets the basics spot on. The rear seats fold in a 40:20:40 configuration and can recline slightly for additional aft-occupant comfort on long trips.
Wireless charging is provided, as well as USB-A and USB-C ports.
Unlike most small crossovers, the Outlander Sport offers good rear legroom (even for adults), which we attribute to its 2 650 mm wheelbase, which is near the longest in class. There are myriad little storage pockets dotted around the cabin; the device pouches at the tops of the front seatbacks are genius!
Mitsubishi doesn’t state how much utility space the Outlander Sport offers, but 480 litres (with the rear seats up) gives it segment honours. Note, though, that the 1.5 Exceed comes with a 16-inch space-saver wheel (we assume there’s a subwoofer that takes up space), while the Aspire has a full (18-inch) spare.
Rear passengers are provided with a USB-A and USB-C port, and nifty storage pockets!
Ride and Handling
We feel that Mitsubishi has tried to play up the “Sport” part of the vehicle’s moniker and, as a result, the 1.5 Exceed‘s ride quality is a trifle firm, even if its 18-inch alloys are wrapped in plump 225/50 tyres.
That said, we conducted a little experiment by tweaking the test unit’s tyre pressures slightly (we reduced them from 2.4 to 2.2 bar) and that helped to soften the Outlander Sport’s ride somewhat.
The 18-inch alloy wheels are wrapped in 225/50 tyres.
It may share its platform with the Xpander Cross, but the Outlander Sport feels markedly different in execution. Even at triple-digit kph, it exhibits impressively low levels of noise, vibration and harshness.
In terms of handling, the Outlander Sport’s steering and suspension tune again lean towards the dynamic side of things, but it doesn’t make the Mitsubishi less comfortable to drive. The steering is reasonably direct and quick; it may be devoid of feedback, but it’s near-perfectly suited for the daily commute.
Mitsubishi has ensured that its off-road heritage remains top of mind.
There are plenty of reminders in the cabin that Mitsubishi has plenty of off-road pedigree and legacy, including a readout that shows the pitch and roll, but remember, this vehicle is front-wheel drive only.
But the Outlander Sport does have a trick up its sleeve for travelling on dirt roads – more than 220 mm of ground clearance! For reference, the Suzuki Jimny, which is a pukka little off-roader, offers 210 mm…
Don’t expect to toggle between conventional drive modes when you use this switch.
Finally, the Outlander Sport has 4 drive modes to choose from, but note they’re not the usual Comfort, Eco and Sport, but rather Normal, Wet, Gravel and Mud. These modes alter the responsiveness of the accelerator pedal, stability-control intervention, and the distribution of torque between the front wheels.
Does it all work? Well, we’ll be perfectly honest and admit that we didn’t give the system a strenuous test (for fear of damaging Mitsubishi’s sole demo unit on the mud-caked dirt roads of the Western Cape)…
Yes, Mitsubishi’s front-wheel-drive small crossover has “off-road” drive modes.
But, for what it’s worth, our photoshoot took place on a gravel road that is perilously slippery when you traverse it at a briskish pace. At no point did the car lose composure when in Gravel mode, so job done.
Disclaimer: This, the Outlander Sport, is not the vehicle in which you should channel your inner Tommi Mäkinen (the Finn who won 4 WRC drivers’ championships on the trot for Mitsubishi in the late Nineties).
Performance and Efficiency
With unremarkable peak outputs of 77 kW and 141 Nm, the naturally-aspirated 1.5-litre petrol engine (mated with a CVT) does not endow the Outlander Sport with, shall we say, energetic performance.
Generous ground clearance makes this car well-suited to driving on a gravel road.
According to our test equipment, it accelerated from zero to 0-100 kph in a leisurely 12.33 sec (but at least it was quicker than the 13.6-sec claimed time). Suffice it to say, the 1.5 Exceed’s “punch” won’t set your heart racing, but we found ourselves asking: “Well, how often do you need to accelerate hard?”
The answer is: “Not very often!” Besides, the Mitsubishi excels at cruising gently in dense traffic (where you simply need to maintain momentum). The CVT is tailor-made for keeping the engine at that perfect sweet spot where it delivers power/torque with optimal fuel economy. Sure, if you flatten the long pedal, you will experience that typical CVT drone at high revs, but the Outlander Sport will respond adequately.
7.4 L/100 km is a good indicated fuel consumption for a vehicle in this price-sensitive segment.
In this particularly price-sensitive segment, low running costs are vital. Although we drove spiritedly during our performance test, the Outlander Sport consistently returned 7.4 L/100 km, which wasn’t too far off Mitsubishi’s claim of 6.2 L/100 km. Yes, its turbopetrol rivals may offer punchier performance, but they’ll struggle to return less than 9 L/100 km around town, so we think the tradeoff is worthwhile.
Outlander Sport price and after-sales support
The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 1.5 Exceed retails for R499 990 (June 2025). The price includes a 5-year/unlimited km warranty and a 3-year/45 000 km service plan (with intervals of 15 000 km).
The Mitsubishi Outlander is one of the pleasant surprises of 2025.
The Outlander Sport delivers plenty of comfort and refinement, allied with an impressive number of features, at a price that seems almost too good to be true. The weak link is the engine’s lack of punch, but we’d rather have a small crossover with impressive fuel consumption than turbocharged shove.
Should you buy one? Intense competition from new Chinese competitors has obligated legacy car brands to optimise their offerings, and Mitsubishi, with its stellar reputation for reliability, has positioned the Outlander Sport to take the fight to its rivals and beat them at their own game: value for money.
The Outlander Sport’s sheer value-for-money proposition is admirable.
Most new models that we assess at Cars.co.za are more-than-competent offerings, but the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is certainly above par for the segment and pleasantly surprised us in several ways.
There’s an awful lot to like here, including attractive packaging, build quality (again, at the price), refined road manners, comprehensive spec, and admirable practicality – all at a very reasonable price. If you’re shopping in the R500k compact SUV segment, the Outlander Sport deserves to be on your shortlist.
It’s been a lengthy wait, but the Mercedes-AMG SL63 has finally arrived in South Africa. Here’s what this 315 kph, V8-powered open-top 2+2 seater will cost you…
Been waiting patiently – for the better part of 4 years, in fact – for the R232-series Mercedes-AMG SL63 4Matic+ to arrive in South Africa? Well, we have good news: the purely V8-powered version of Affalterbach’s open-top 2+2 seater is finally here.
Yes, Mercedes-Benz SA has quietly added the SL63 to its online configurator, suggesting a local market introduction is imminent. The price? Well, the Mercedes-AMG SL63 4Matic+ starts at R3 870 128, though note this figure excludes the cost of a maintenance plan. The price inclusive of a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan kicks off at R3 983 284.
With the PHEV derivative seemingly not in Mercedes-Benz SA’s immediate plans, the Mercedes-AMG SL63 assumes the mantle as the most powerful SL on the local market. In fact, though the SL43 is still shown on the German brand’s last official price list, it is not currently on the configurator.
But back to the long-awaited SL63. This version of the Stuttgart-based firm’s 2+2 roadster employs the brand’s well-known twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 petrol engine (M177), which here develops peak outputs of 430 kW and 800 Nm (the latter spread from 2 500- to 4 500 rpm). Mercedes-AMG lists a 0-100 kph time of 3.6 seconds, along with a top speed of 315 kph. Drive is delivered to all 4 corners via a 9-speed MCT transmission.
In South Africa, standard features for the SL63 include rear-axle steering, 20-inch AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels, AMG Active Ride Control, an 11.9-inch touchscreen (complete with tilt adjustment), Nappa leather upholstery, front-seat heating and a black finish for the fabric soft top.
Meanwhile, the list of extras includes various exterior styling packages (culminating in the AMG Exterior Carbon Package for R97 704), a few 21-inch wheel designs (up to 10-twin-spoke forged items for R58 900) and 3 additional soft-top colour options (ranging from R8 142 to R14 500).
Mercedes-Benz SA also offers optional items like AMG Performance Seats (R39 692), a full-colour head-up display (R20 151), a “high-end” Burmester 3D surround-sound system (R99 740), a front-axle lift system (R45 000) and AMG ceramic-composite brakes (R182 000).
How much does the Mercedes-AMG SL63 cost in SA?
Mercedes-AMG SL63 4Matic+ – R3 870 128
The price above includes Mercedes-Benz SA’s 2-year/unlimited km warranty but excludes the cost of a maintenance plan. Including a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan pushes the starting price to R3 983 284.
Despite being on the market for just 3 months so far, the Lexus GX is already leading the Japanese luxury firm’s sales charts in South Africa. Here’s a look at the figures…
The new Lexus GX – a nameplate previously not available in South Africa – launched locally only in March 2025, but the Prado-based SUV has already rocketed to the top of the Japanese luxury firm’s sales charts.
Yes, with 46 examples registered in May 2025, the new GX has a year-to-date total of 163 units, despite being on the market for only 3 months. That includes the 63 units sold in its launch month, representing the highest single-month sales tally by a Lexus model in several years.
Courtesy of those 163 sales, the GX now accounts for a considerable 34.8% of Lexus registrations – spread across 8 nameplates – in SA over the opening 5 months of 2025. That share is an even more substantial 46.2% when the exercise is restricted to the past 3 months.
The GX’s performance in May 2025 saw it move into pole position in the Lexus stable, overtaking the NX (which now has the 2nd-best year-to-date tally of 144 units). Next comes the flagship LX (75 units), followed by the RX (41 units), the outgoing ES sedan (28 units) and the UX (10 units). The fully electric RZ (4 units) and the seldom-spotted IS sedan (3 units) make up the numbers.
While the GX’s sales figures may not appear overly impressive at first glance, it’s worth keeping in mind this ladder-frame SUV’s pricing kicks off at R1 766 000 for the GX 550 Overtrail 5-seater derivative and at R1 867 000 for the GX 550 SE 7-seater variant.
As a reminder, all derivatives in the Lexus GX line-up are powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.4-litre V6 petrol engine. Familiar from both the Land Cruiser 300 and the since-discontinued LX 600 (the latter having been replaced by the new LX 700h) 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 serves to further differentiate the GX from the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, with the latter offered exclusively in 2.8-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel guise. Positioned between the Lexus RX and LX, the GX shares various elements – though, again, not its powertrain – with this latest Prado, right down to its “J250” model code.
Of course, the closely related – though, again, exclusively turbodiesel-powered – Land Cruiser Prado has proven an even bigger hit, reaching a total of 914 units over the same 3-month period and pushing its year-to-date tally to a whopping 1 600 units. The Prado’s starting price, though, is some R437 100 lower at R1 328 900.
To refresh your memory, 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 and indeed South Africa.
If you’re shopping for a new Haval in South Africa, look no further than Cars.co.za! Here are all the models for sale in South Africa, including details such as powertrains, fuel efficiency and pricing!
Haval is a SUV-focused brand from China’s Great Wall Motors (GWM) and has become a major success in the South African market by offering a range of SUV’s that combine affordability, modern design, and advanced technology.
As of mid-2025, Haval’s South African lineup includes the Jolion compact SUV, the mid-size H6 family car and the larger H7 SUV.
This article provides all the basic model information you will need if you want to buy a Haval in South Africa.
Note that pricing is accurate as of June 2025.
Haval cars for sale in South Africa
Haval Jolion
The Jolion is a compact SUV that offers a blend of style, technology, and performance. It’s available in the entry-level City trim or buyers can opt for the sportier Jolion Pro.
The Jolion stands out with its modern design, comprehensive safety features, and value for money, making it a strong contender in the compact SUV segment.
The H6 is a mid-size family SUV that combines spaciousness with advanced technology and performance. The H6 is offered in front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive with either a turbopetrol or petrol-hybrid powertrain and there’s also a sportier H6 GT available.
The facelifted H6, pictured above, is due to go on sale in South Africa in mid-2025 and will offer a more powerful 170 kW / 380 2.0-litre turbopetrol powertrain paired with a 9-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The incoming H6 will also see the introduction of the brand’s first H6 GT Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV).
Note that the table below shows the current, outgoing H6 specifications.
The H6’s combination of performance, technology, and comfort positions it as a compelling choice for families and individuals seeking a versatile SUV.
2025 Renault Duster Review: Goodbye Diesel, Hello Hybrid!
In this comprehensive review, David Taylor dives deep into what makes the 2025 Renault Duster a true contender for your next adventure vehicle. He explores its rugged design, improved interior tech, as well as on- and off-road performance.
The 2025 Renault Duster’s design is striking and holds universal appeal. In an era when most new products seem bigger in every direction compared with their predecessors, the new Duster is only 11 mm wider and 2 mm longer than its predecessor, while the 4×4 gets a nifty 7 mm extra ground clearance and features a different front bumper that offers a better approach angle than the 4×2 variants.
Petrol-only engine line-up
Engine-wise, the much-loved turbodiesel has been discontinued (as is the case in many European brands’ passenger-car line-ups), and there are just 2 turbopetrol offerings – a 1.3-litre turbo for the 4×2 and a mild-hybrid 1.2-litre turbo for the 4×4. Strangely, there is no auto available on the 4×4, and you can also only have the 4×4 in the lower Zen spec, not the Intens spec, which you can have on the 4×2.
The interior of the 2025 Renault Duster has never been about an upmarket ambience and soft-touch materials. The new model continues that trend, with hard (but durable) plastics that feel sturdy.
The infotainment system feels modern, and it’s simple to pair your smartphone with it. It’s got wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as 2 USB-C ports at the front. There is a wireless charger in the front of the cabin, but it didn’t seem to fit a modern smartphone, so make sure to try it out for size.
In front of the driver, you get a 7-inch digital instrument cluster that’s fairly basic to operate and, if you like, you can change the display themes and the colour of the dials’ backgrounds.
Still offers excellent practicality
The Duster’s load bay is comparable to that of the 2nd-gen model – Renault says the 4×2 variants can accommodate 472 litres and the 4×4 can hold litres. All versions come with a full-size spare wheel and, if you need more capacity, you can fold the rear seats down in a 60/40 split to free up 1 696 litres.
With the highly debated mild-hybrid engine and a new focus on capability, can the 2025 Renault Duster still deliver that unbeatable value and go-anywhere spirit Mzansi loves? Watch to find out!
The new Mercedes-AMG E53 plug-in hybrid will soon hit the market in South Africa, boasting a peak output as high as 430 kW. Here’s what this PHEV sedan will cost you…
South Africa’s new-energy vehicle (NEV) segment continues to grow, with the latest arrival taking the form of the new Mercedes-AMG E53 plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV).
Yes, Mercedes-Benz SA has quietly loaded the latest version of the Affalterbach-fettled E-Class (W214) sedan onto its local configurator. The price? Well, the new Mercedes-AMG E53 Hybrid 4Matic+ – which was revealed back in March 2024 – starts at R2 514 176, including the cost of a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan.
So, what does all that cash buy you? Well, the PHEV powertrain comprises a 330 kW turbocharged 3.0-litre straight-6 petrol engine and a 120 kW electric motor. Together, these components offer maximum system outputs of 430 kW and 750 Nm. That’s considerably more than the previous-gen (W213) E53’s peak figures of 320 kW and 520 Nm.
Interestingly, the maximum power can be temporarily raised to 450 kW by using the “Race Start” function (effectively launch control), though unlocking that feature requires the purchasing of the optional AMG Dynamic Plus Package for an additional R60 000.
According to the German automaker, the new E53 PHEV can see off the obligatory 0‑100 kph sprint in just 3.8 seconds, while this electrified sedan’s top speed is electronically limited to 250 kph (or 280 kph, if you select the optional AMG Driver’s Package for an extra R36 174). Top speed in pure-electric mode is listed as 140 kph.
The electric motor is integrated into the 9-speed automatic transmission and draws its urge from a 28.6 kWh (gross capacity) battery pack installed under the luggage-compartment floor. Mercedes-Benz says the available energy content comes in at 21.22 kWh, since “part of the energy is always reserved for boosting and thus high-performance driving”. Still, the company claims an electric range of 100 km.
In South Africa, various options are available, including a panoramic sliding sunroof (R21 826), the “High-End” AMG Performance Seat Package (R102 609), the MBUX Superscreen (R55 652), a 3D Driver’s Display (R19 652), a full-colour head-up display (R20 783), a Burmester 3D surround-sound system (R23 913) and various alloy-wheel designs (up to R56 522 for the priciest 21-inch items).
How much does the Mercedes-AMG E53 cost in SA?
Mercedes-AMG E53 Hybrid 4Matic+ – R2 514 176
The price above includes Mercedes-Benz SA’s standard 2-year/unlimited km warranty and a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan.
*An earlier version of this story said the E53 was priced from R2 092 711 (excluding a maintenance plan), as indicated on Mercedes-Benz SA’s configurator. However, we’ve since been informed the company erroneously excluded VAT from that figure.
Nissan Magnite vs Renault Kiger: What’s the difference?
The Nissan Magnite and Renault Kiger are closely related, though there are a few key differences. Let’s look at the main differences between these 2 budget crossovers…
The Nissan Magnite and Renault Kiger are effectively automotive cousins. Despite being offered by Japanese and French brands respectively, these budget crossovers are closely related. They even ride on the same CMF-A+ platform!
While they both roll off the production line at Renault’s manufacturing plant near Chennai in India, the Magnite and Kiger are primarily differentiated by their interior and exterior designs. However, there are a few more key distinctions, in addition to minor specification variances. Let’s take a closer look at the differences!
Nissan Magnite vs Renault Kiger: What’s the difference?
1. Engine Outputs and Fuel Economy
In South Africa, the Magnite and Kiger are both available with 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engines, either in naturally aspirated or turbocharged guise. The atmospheric motor in the Magnite makes 53 kW at 6 250 rpm. The Kiger version offers slightly less power (52 kW), though this peak arrives earlier in the rev range (6 000 rpm). Peak torque is 96 Nm in either case.
The free-breathing mill has a listed fuel consumption of 5.9 L/100 km in the Magnite in both 5-speed manual and automated manual transmission (AMT) guise. However, the corresponding claims for the Kiger are interestingly 5.3- and 5.2 L/100 km, respectively.
Meanwhile, the turbocharged engine makes 74 kW and 160 Nm in manual-equipped versions of both the Magnite and Kiger. We must note that the Kiger’s claimed economy is slightly more appealing (5.0- vs 5.3 L/100 km).
Paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), the Magnite 1.0 Turbo loses 8 Nm, reducing its peak torque to 152 Nm. In addition, the CVT-equipped Magnite’s claimed fuel consumption figure of 6.0 L/100 km is higher than the Kiger’s 5.4 L/100 km.
2. Dimensions and Practicality
While they share the same 2 500 mm wheelbase, the Magnite measures 3 995 mm long, while the Kiger stands 3 991 mm long. However, the Renault version stands 33 mm taller at 1 605 mm, though the Nissan is a touch wider.
Luggage space is perhaps more important than a few millimetres of bodywork and the Kiger has a claimed boot space of 405 litres. The Magnite’s capacity comes in at 336 litres, though it features a lower loading lip. However, Nissan’s contender boasts more cabin space, including rear legroom, along with arguably more comfortable seats.
While the Kiger ships with either 2 or 4 airbags (depending on the derivative), all versions of the Magnite were upgraded to 6 airbags for this model’s facelift late in 2024. The Nissan furthermore features ABS, rear parking sensors, electronic stability control and tyre-pressure monitoring across the range. Only certain derivatives in the Kiger line-up, meanwhile, come with the latter 2 items.
4. Nissan Magnite vs Renault Kiger: Price and Warranty in South Africa
In South Africa, the facelifted Nissan Magnite range comprises 10 derivatives, including the Move-badged panel-van derivative. The still-to-be-refreshed Kiger line-up, meanwhile, is made up of 7 variants (likewise including a panel-van iteration called the “Express”).
At the time of writing (June 2025), Nissan SA’s pricing for the Magnite ran from R229 900 to R410 700, with all derivatives covered by a 6-year/150 000 km warranty.
Nissan includes a 3-year/30 000 km service plan (with 10 000 km intervals) in the purchase price of all Magnite derivatives bar the panel van. Renault offers a more modest 2-year/30 000 km service plan, though its service intervals are stretched to 15 000 km.
Summary
Based on the above, we can see that the Nissan Magnite range – which offers more choice than that of its Gallic cousin – boasts slightly more interior space, along with a more extensive list of standard safety kit. It also features a lower starting price and a longer warranty, while its service plan stretches to 3 years!
Both models offer similar performance characteristics but the Renault Kiger hits back with better claimed fuel economy and a larger luggage compartment. Furthermore, the Kiger’s service plan covers just 2 years but the recommended service intervals (in mileage terms, anyway) are higher at 15 000 km.
Ultimately, your decision will hinge on your personal needs. Which one of these budget crossovers gets your thumbs up?
