Toyota Hilux GR Sport (2019) Specs & Price

With Ford garnering a lot of attention thanks to the arrival of the new Ranger, Toyota is eager to focus the public's attention on its top-selling Hilux! To that end, Toyota has introduced a limited-edition GR Sport and a brace of Legend 50 derivatives.

The Hilux is a household name in South Africa and it’s not surprising when you look at the market dominance the Hilux has fostered over the years; Toyota's bakkie range has been the best-selling vehicle in South Africa for countless consecutive months. Its lineage spans 8 generations since its local introduction in 1969 (production began in 1968), the Hilux is still praised for its reliability, robust offroad ability and excellent value retention in the used car market. Today, the Hilux is built at Toyota's Prospecton plant in Durban for the local market as well as for export.

Recently, the Hilux excelled on the international stage when the South African-built Gazoo Racing Hilux, driven by Nasser Al Attiyah and Mathieu Baumel, secured Toyota’s first Dakar win in gruelling conditions. Days later, Toyota scooped the coveted Brand of the Year title at the #CarsAwards powered by WesBank. And, of course, the Hilux is celebrating its 50th year in the South African market, which sets the scene for the Legend 50.

Only 600 units of the GR Sport

The first special Hilux that consumers can look forward to is called the GR Sport. The limited-edition GR Sport features numerous upgrades, including Gazoo Racing stickers, a bold new-look grille, a 2-tone paint finish and GR Sport 17-inch alloys shod with 265/65 all-terrain tyres. It is available in a range of colours including Glacier White, Arizona Red or Attitude Black, the last of which matches the Gazoo Racing livery.

While the GR Sport's 2.8 GD-6 4×4 Automatic powertrain is unchanged, its suspension has been tuned for performance. The spring rates at the front have been increased with revised damping, which imbues the Hilux GR Sport with a sportier ride, that apparently doesn't affect the ride comfort. The rear suspension has been left untouched.

Inside there are multiple reassurances that you are in a GR Sport model. The GR logo is displayed across the headrests, carpets and the start button. Each model also gets a special serial number badge on display in the cabin.

The infotainment system features an 8-inch touchscreen system, now with knobs included for volume adjustment.

There'll be just 600 units allocated to South African customers, although it appears all have already been accounted for.

Meanwhile, as the 50th anniversary of the Hilux in South Africa is a major milestone, the Prospecton-based manufacturer will celebrate the occasion by introducing a special edition Hilux Legend 50, which will effectively substitute the current Raider versions for the duration of its production run.

Read about the Legend 50 model here

Toyota Hilux GR Sport Price in South Africa (June 2019)

Toyota South Africa confirmed to Cars.co.za that the new Hilux GR will retail for R707 400.

BMW M850i with AC Schnitzer Parts Coming to Goodwood

BMW tuner AC Schnitzer has modified the 8 Series coupe and will be showing it off at the 2019 Goodwood Festival of Speed.

The modified M850i xDrive you see here showcases 2 examples of AC Schnitzer's work. First up is the new homologated carbon fibre rear spoiler for additional downforce and grip, the second is the stainless steel sports exhaust, which you can hear at the bottom of this article.

However, AC Schnitzer isn't just about looks and noise and the tuner claims there's a performance upgrade thrown into the mix too. AC Schnitzer offers additional performance for both the 840d and the M850i. The diesel-powered model sees power jump from 235 kW to 280 kW, while its petrol-powered sibling sees massive gains with 390 kW stock becoming 456 kW, which interestingly is very close to the flagship BMW M8.

AC Schnitzer also offers a lowering kit for the 8-Series, some 20-inch custom wheels plus crazy levels of carbon fibre-based aero elements.

Listen to the AC Schnitzer M850i

Opel Astra Receives Mild Facelift

Opel has given the Astra hatchback the mildest of facelifts. Here's what has changed.

When it comes to facelifts and updates, this 2020 Opel Astra has to be one of the lightest, with the majority of changes not visible to the naked eye. Thanks the PSA Group who now own Opel, the Astra now features engines from Peugeot and there are some improvements in the aerodynamics.

Opel is claiming that the small adjustments in the wind tunnel have led to the Astra boasting the lowest drag coefficient in its segment. Other changes include the chassis being tweaked for a bit more dynamic engagement, while new shock absorbers are said to increase comfort. For those wanting a performance slant, the optional sports chassis has stiffer dampers, more direct steering and a Watts link at the rear axle.

There are new front and rear cameras as well a digital speedometer and an update to the infotainment system as well as introducing an optional BOSE audio system.

As for the engines, there are 1.2 and 1.4 3-cylinder motors with outputs ranging from 81 kW / 195 Nm and 107 kW / 236 Nm. There's the option of a 6-speed manual gearbox, while the top-spec 1.4 comes exclusively with a new 7-speed CVT. For those who fancy a diesel engine, the PSA 1.5-litre 3-cylinder diesel motor is also available with 77 kW / 260 Nm and 90 kW / 300 Nm. The top-spec diesel model is available with a new 9-speed auto.

All-New BMW X6 Confirmed for SA

BMW has revealed its third generation X6 Sports Activity Coupe (SAC) and it will arrive in South Africa in November 2019. See further details below…

This is the new BMW X6 that will take the fight to its rivals which include the Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, Audi Q8 and Porsche Cayenne Coupe. Perhaps the most striking part of the new X6’s styling is its kidney grille, which for the first time, can be optionally illuminated. Yes, you read that correctly, the grille actually lights up. This should not come as a surprise though, as the oversize grilles seen on the X7 and 7-Series have been a source of debate in recent times and this latest feature will undoubtedly fuel the flames and get people talking about the brand. BMW says that the grille can be turned on and off by opening and closing the car or it can be manually activated/deactivated.

In terms of dimensions, the X6 stands some 26 mm longer than before (4 935 mm), 15 mm wider (2 004 mm), 6 mm lower (1 696 mm) and with an extended wheelbase of 42 mm (2 975 mm). The X6 rides on 19-inch light alloy wheels as standard and wheel sizes ranging from 20 to 22-inches will be offered as an option. Adaptive LED BMW Laserlight headlights are also optional.

On the inside, the interior has been overhauled and redesigned and is upholstered in Vernasca leather upholstery as standard. The BMW Live Cockpit Professional combines a 12.3-inch hi-res instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch control display. This cabin looks familiar and shares many elements with its X5 and X7 siblings.

Standard driver assistance features include cruise control with braking function, collision and pedestrian warning with city braking function. Active cruise control will be optionally available as well as the Driving Assistant Professional package which includes features such as steering and lane control assistant, traffic jam assistant, lane keeping assistant, evasion assistant, rear collision warning, road priority warning, wrong-way driving warning, cross traffic warning, lane change warning, emergency stop assistant and reversing assistant.

In terms of engine choices, BMW South Africa confirmed that we'll be getting the X6 M50i and X6 M50d from launch. The 50i is a 4.4-litre V8 turbocharged petrol motor with 390 kW and 750 Nm, while the diesel-powered M50d packs 294 kW and 760 Nm. Power goes to an xDrive all-wheel-drive setup via an 8-speed automatic gearbox. BMW claims the petrol-powered X6 will hit 100 kph in 4.3 seconds, with the M50d doing the same sprint in a claimed 5.2 seconds.

As for the launch? Well, you can expect the new BMW X6 to touch down in South Africa in November 2019.

All-New Renault Captur Unveiled

Renault has announced the arrival of an all-new Captur and it's confirmed for a South African market introduction.

With over 1.2 million units sold globally since its launch back in 2013, the Renault Captur has proven immensely popular. The all-new Renault Captur is underpinned by the new CMF-B platform, shared with the all-new Renault Clio, itself due for market introduction in SA in 2020. The main benefit of this CMF-B platform is it makes provision for electrification.

Speaking of, Renault is ambitious with its electricifcation strategy. There will be 12 electric models in its range and this new Captur will be the first recipient of the all-new E-Tech plug-in hybrid engine. As for this new Captur, it's 110 mm longer and boasts a higher waistline in comparison to the outgoing model. Inside, the legroom has been extended by 17 mm and boot space has grown by 81 litres. It also features front and rear protection skid plates, chunky cladding and wheel arch extensions, giving it some visual SUV credentials.

The cabin focuses on space and connectivity. The Smart Cockpit layout is based on the Clio and there's a choice of infotainment screen sizes. Renault's Easy Link multimedia system adds Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to the mix. Standard levels of tech appear generous with LED headlights across the range, the option of a sunroof, BOSE premium audio system and a whole host of safety features like 360-degree camera, active emergency braking with cyclist and pedestrian detection to name but a few.

Under the bonnet are a selection of petrol and diesel engines, but the motor that has us interested the most is the E-Tech Plug-in. Combining a compact 1.6 petrol motor with an electric assist, the Captur can drive up to 45 km at speeds of up to 135 kph. The vehicle also features Mode 2 and Mode 3 compactible plugs for charging.

As for the rest of the range, the Renault Captur features the new 1.0-litre 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, which produces 73 kW and 160 Nm. There's also the option of a 1.3-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder motor with 95 kW and 240 Nm. This 1.3-litre motor is also available in a higher state of tune and can pack a 114 kW and 270 Nm punch at the top of the petrol range. In terms of gearboxes, the Captur is available with a 6-speed manual and a new 7-speed dual clutch transmission. For those wanting diesel power, the 1.5-litre 4-cylinder motor is available in 2 states of tune. The first version has 70 kW and 240 Nm, and is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox, while the second has 115 kW and 260 Nm, with the option of a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.

When's it coming? We reached out to Renault South Africa who confirmed that this model is coming to our market in the 2nd half of 2020.

9 Tips: Buying a Car on a Budget

South Africa is a wonderful place to live, but given forever increasing living costs, consumers have to budget more carefully than ever before. What should you keep in mind when buying a car in these cash-strapped times?

What is a vehicle buyer to do in such a tough economic climate? A car is considered to be the 2nd biggest financial commitment (after buying a home), so it is safe to say that you need to put a huge amount of thought into it before taking the plunge. It’s no longer a case of “I just want a new car,” it’s more about what you can afford that meets your requirements.

The first thing a buyer needs to do is understand what exactly is involved in buying a car. Unfortunately, more often than not when it comes to a buying a car, customers are driven by emotions, but in these trying times, you will need to leave vanity and brand loyalty at the door and “put your rational, responsible adult pants on”.

1. What’s your budget?

Budget for more than just a car’s asking price. Don’t try to work it out in your head, use a calculator and write down all the costs so that you’ll know how much you can afford to spend upfront and every month thereafter… keep in mind on-the-road-costs (registration, licencing, ‘plates), how much you’re likely to spend on fuel given the distances you travel (use vehicles’ claimed consumption figures to calculate it), insurance premiums, maintenance costs (such as services (if not included) and tyres) and any unforeseen costs that you might incur.

All these costs will paint a clearer picture of the total cost of ownership which will help you make a more financially sound car buying decision.

2. New or used?

Now that you have your budget in mind, you can decide whether a new or used car will be your best option. There are pros and cons to both so you need to do your homework first. The benefit of buying a new car is that you get the maximum extent of warranty and service/maintenance plan cover from a franchised dealer network and that your vehicle is (or should be) unblemished. However, even if you can secure trade-in assistance or a discount on a vehicle, new car prices are prohibitively expensive for some consumers. If you buy a used car, you are likely to make a significant saving because vehicles’ first buyers absorb the biggest knocks in value depreciation… However, a second-hand car purchase requires a prospective buyer to carefully check and consider a vehicle’s condition, including ownership- and after-sales histories, plus you may need to budget to bear maintenance and servicing costs sooner.

3. Be practical

This is where you will need to keep your emotions in check. Buy with your head and not your heart. You might have your eye on a sexy 2-seater sportscar or an older premium brand product, but does it make practical sense, even if you can afford it? Write down what your requirements are, like notable off-road ability, additional seating capacity or sizeable luggage space, and leave the “nice-to-haves” (such as 4 USB ports and 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system) off the list. Planning to buy a car is not all that different to preparing for a shopping trip: make a definitive list of what you need, make sure you get those things before you spend extra money on anything else and shop around to ensure you get the best price.

4. Keep an open mind

Perhaps you have owned a vehicle/s from Brand X only and, having had good ownership experiences with the car/s, are reluctant to change brands. Maybe you hold a steadfast belief that Brand Y is the most reliable manufacturer and you’re unwilling to consider a car made by any other brand. However, there are many manufacturers that offer great products at great deals with excellent warranties. You don’t have to compromise on safety or looks because if you do your homework, you will most certainly find a car that suits your image as well as your budget. A good barometer is the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, which recognises the best vehicles in 13 respective categories, backed by credible consumer input from the Cars.co.za Consumer Satisfaction Survey, which incorporates brand feedback from thousands of owners of vehicles that are less than 5 years old. Click here to visit the #CarsAwards site.

5. Research is key

You really cannot afford to make a bad decision when it comes to buying a car, no matter what your budget is. Do your homework… a lot of homework! Don’t just research the car you might want to buy, but also the different offers out there, such as Cars.co.za’s New Car Specials, visit a few dealerships, conduct test drives and ask about deals and upcoming promotions. Also do some research on how much you could possibly get for your current car (if you own one), shop around and negotiate the best deal before making a decision.

6. Insurance hustle

The cost of insurance on specific models can have a dramatic impact on your car-buying decision. There are many factors that influence insurance premiums, including the extent of accident coverage and excess payments, so be sure to inquire from several providers and check the fine print. Don’t take the first deal you’re offered, shop around and only settle on the one that makes the most sense to your budget and your needs. A little bit of hustling goes a long way when it comes to shopping for insurance. Click here to get an insurance quote.

7. Warranty and service planning

Some used cars are still under warranty and might have an active service or maintenance plan as well. If you are opting for a used car, try to purchase one with at least a meaty portion of the warranty and service/maintenance plan still active, every little bit you can save on servicing and maintenance is a bonus. If you are opting for a new car, make sure you have the budget to add a service plan if it does not come standard with the purchase price. Otherwise, if you’d like to purchase a warranty for your car, enquire here.

8. Financing your car

We’d all like to buy our cars with cash, but many of us cannot afford it, so we have to finance our vehicle purchases. Again, make sure that you shop around. Try and choose a short-term repayment plan with the lowest interest rate possible. Be wary of balloon payments, as they can make repayments seem small, but could leave you still owing quite a sizeable amount on your car by the end of your contract. Try to make as big a deposit as you can (ideally anything from 10% to 20% of the purchase price), as this will help lower your instalments.

Car finance – Tips to help you save.

9. Avoid optional extras

If you are buying a new car it might be tempting to add extras such as a sunroof, bigger wheels and a beefed-up audio system. However, you are unlikely to get your money back (even percentage wise) for them when the time comes to sell (or trade-in) your car. If anything, prudently specified extras will make your car more marketable for whichever retailer buys it from you, but that won’t make a much of a difference in terms of what they’ll offer you for your car. Extras push the initial purchase price up; they’re “nice to have”, not necessary, features.

There is a lot to consider when buying a car, but the most important tip of all is to do your research! Like the saying goes, “Knowledge is power” and Cars.co.za is the best to start your car buying journey. You won’t make a bad buying decision if you know what you are looking for and know how to get it. Happy shopping!

Mercedes-AMG A45 and CLA45 Teased Ahead of Imminent Reveal

Mercedes-AMG will be officially revealing its new A45 S and CLA 45 S at the 2019 Goodwood Festival of Speed.

The brace of high-performance compact AMGs will be put through their paces at the Goodwood Festival of Speed and it'll be a chance for guests to see the vehicles up close. The announcement came from 2 teasers on social media where you get to see some details as well as listen to the all-new 2.0-litre turbocharged engine.

This new motor produces 310 kW and 500 Nm in both the S versions of the A45 and CLA45. There will be a non-S version which pumps out 285 kW and 480 Nm too. Mercedes-AMG has teased us with the all-wheel-setup that makes provision for a drift mode and both models will feature an 8-speed dual-clutch gearbox.

Set your alarms for Thursday the 4th of July 2019 at 1pm Central European Time (2pm South African time). Stay tuned.

Mercedes-AMG A45 S Teaser

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Mercedes-AMG (@mercedesamg) on Jul 1, 2019 at 11:29am PDT

Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 S Teaser

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Mercedes-AMG (@mercedesamg) on Jul 1, 2019 at 12:30pm PDT

Volkswagen Previews New California 6.1

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has released 2 teaser sketches of the latest iteration of the California.

Volkswagen says its new California T6.1 will have its world premiere at the end of August 2019 at the Caravan-Salon in Germany. In the meantime, what we know so far is Volkswagen claiming an enhanced interior, new generation of infotainment, and additional assistance systems to increase safety and comfort.

With over 18 000 units sold in 2018, the California became the number 1 campervan. For the updated version, we can also expect enhanced living and sleeping quarters as well as a redesigned dashboard incorporating the option of the VW Active Info Display, which is an all-digital setup.

In terms of mechanics, the updated California T6.1 will feature electromechanical power steering which was first seen on the Multivan 6.1. Safety systems such as Lane Assist, Side Protection, Trailer Assist and Side Wind Compensation will be available for the California T6.1. Under the redesigned front end will be the highly-efficient 2.0-litre turbodiesel motor with outputs of "up to 146 kW".

We'll have more details when the vehicle is revealed at the end of August 2019.

The new living quarters in the Volkswagen California T6.1

2020 BMW X6 Leaks Early

Pictures of the all-new BMW X6 have emerged on the Internet. Here's what we know so far.

Codenamed G06, this new BMW X6 is due for an imminent reveal. From what these leaked photos suggest, we're looking at a bolder and more aggressive-looking BMW X6 and we think it looks particularly attractive from the rear.

Under the bonnet, you can expect the usual array of petrol and diesel engines based on the current powertrains found in the X5 and X7. There'll likely be flagship M and M Competition derivatives too. All models will likely feature xDrive all-wheel drive too.

We'll have more information after the official reveal which we believe to be in the first week of July 2019.

Preview: BMW M2 CS Coming in 2020

BMW will be introducing a very special version of its critically acclaimed M2 in the near future. We reported on this back in 2017, but there have been some developments.

The BMW M2 CS will follow a similar strategy to the M4 CS – it will be a hardened, more powerful and lighter track-focused machine. It is said to be revealed later this year with the production run beginning in 2020.

This artist's impression of the M2, supplied exclusively to Cars.co.za, shows an M2 with the same treatment as an M4 CS. Bits to be added to the M2 CS are a lightweight carbon-fibre reinforced plastic bonnet and rear diffuser. It’s also likely to get a fixed rear spoiler and a new front splitter. Brakes and suspension will no doubt get an upgrade and the wheels will be especially lightweight. From what we’ve seen with the M4 CS, it will also get a set of super-sticky Michelin tyres to help improve traction.

According to various reports, BMW has dispensed with the upgraded 235i/240i engine that resides in the current M2, and will transplant the M engine from the M3/M4 into the M2 CS. It could be slightly detuned so as not to step on the toes of the bigger brother, but for those who know their engine codes, this is the S55 3.0-litre turbocharged 6-cylinder motor which will be producing around 330 kW and 550 Nm.

The most interesting rumour around the running gear surrounds the gearbox. Rumours of the manual gearbox's demise have been greatly exaggerated as it appears the M2 CS will be offered with a 6-speed manual. There should also be the option of a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox. A manual-equipped M2 CS makes perfect sense as a pure driver’s car and, in the opinion of various aficionados, will cement the M2 as the best current M car in the BMW lineup. Being a CS model, there will be a limited production run.

As for the expected time of arrival, BMWBlog suggests that production begins in March 2020, but it wouldn't surprise us to see a reveal at either the Frankfurt Motor Show or the Los Angeles Motor Show before the end of 2019.

BMW M2 CS Testing at the Nurburgring

Interested in buying an M2?

Search for a new/used example on Cars.co.za

Toyota Hilux GR Sport (2019) Specs & Price

With Ford garnering a lot of attention thanks to the arrival of the new Ranger, Toyota is eager to focus the public's attention on its top-selling Hilux! To that end, Toyota has introduced a limited-edition GR Sport and a brace of Legend 50 derivatives.

Only 600 units of the GR Sport

Toyota Hilux GR Sport Price in South Africa (June 2019)

Further Reading:

BMW M850i with AC Schnitzer Parts Coming to Goodwood

BMW tuner AC Schnitzer has modified the 8 Series coupe and will be showing it off at the 2019 Goodwood Festival of Speed.

Further Reading

Listen to the AC Schnitzer M850i

Opel Astra Receives Mild Facelift

Opel has given the Astra hatchback the mildest of facelifts. Here's what has changed.

Further Reading

All-New BMW X6 Confirmed for SA

BMW has revealed its third generation X6 Sports Activity Coupe (SAC) and it will arrive in South Africa in November 2019. See further details below…

Further Reading

All-New Renault Captur Unveiled

Renault has announced the arrival of an all-new Captur and it's confirmed for a South African market introduction.

Further Reading

9 Tips: Buying a Car on a Budget

South Africa is a wonderful place to live, but given forever increasing living costs, consumers have to budget more carefully than ever before. What should you keep in mind when buying a car in these cash-strapped times?

1. What’s your budget?

2. New or used?

3. Be practical

4. Keep an open mind

5. Research is key

6. Insurance hustle

7. Warranty and service planning

8. Financing your car

9. Avoid optional extras

Related content

Mercedes-AMG A45 and CLA45 Teased Ahead of Imminent Reveal

Mercedes-AMG will be officially revealing its new A45 S and CLA 45 S at the 2019 Goodwood Festival of Speed.

Mercedes-AMG A45 S Teaser

Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 S Teaser

Volkswagen Previews New California 6.1

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has released 2 teaser sketches of the latest iteration of the California.

Further Reading

2020 BMW X6 Leaks Early

Pictures of the all-new BMW X6 have emerged on the Internet. Here's what we know so far.

Further Reading

Preview: BMW M2 CS Coming in 2020

BMW will be introducing a very special version of its critically acclaimed M2 in the near future. We reported on this back in 2017, but there have been some developments.

BMW M2 CS Testing at the Nurburgring

Related content

Interested in buying an M2?