The new Mercedes-Benz GLA has been spotted testing on public roads in Europe. Here's what we know so far.
Picture credit: S. Baldauf/SB-Medien
Curiously, the Mercedes-Benz GLA is taking its time to reach production. The hatchback A-Class has been on sale globally since 2018, the A-Class sedan is about to launch in South Africa and the new CLA sedan is due for imminent global release. You'd think the GLA baby SUV would be further along in its development, but from what we're told, it's only going to be sold in 2020 as a 2021 model.
Sharing the same platform as the A-Class hatchback, the new GLA will bring similar levels of sharp looks and digitally connected cabin with MBUX. The GLA will sit higher than the A-Class with a tad more ground clearance, giving it some offroad prowess and we expect some models to feature 4Matic all-wheel drive. In terms of engines, you're looking at compact petrol, diesel and potentially plug-in hybrid models. We'll be surprised if there isn't an AMG option following on later. It will be interesting to see its positioning and price in relation to the recently announced GLB 7-seater.
South Africa’s Top Selling Cars & Bakkies: Q1 2019
Which brands and, more specifically, which models are currently the most in-demand in the South African new-vehicle market? Look beyond the big numbers on the surface and a fascinating picture emerges.
The sales figures quotes in this article are sourced from Lightstone Auto and are for the first 3 months of the year. Note that certain brands' numbers (notably Hyundai and Kia) are estimates calculated from the aggregated volumes reported and financial data.
Biggest brands in the passenger vehicle market
The top 10 list in this category doesn't really yield any major surprises at the top, but what is interesting is just how tightly contested the bottom half of the table is, with all those brands selling between 3 000 and 4 000 units. The brand in 11th place, Suzuki, only just missed out on reaching the list with sales of 3 043.
Note these sales exclude double-cab bakkies.
Ranking
Brand
Sales
1.
Volkswagen
17 562
2.
Toyota
16 868
3.
Hyundai
7 593
4.
Ford
6 596
5.
Renault
5 706
6.
Mazda
3 545
7.
Mercedes-Benz
3 428
8.
Kia
3 289
9.
Nissan
3 251
10.
BMW
3 067
Most popular passenger cars
Dominant once again, the Volkswagen Polo Vivo has a significant lead in the passenger car market.
Again, there are few surprises at the top of this list, though the enduring appeal of the Toyota Corolla Quest will raise eyebrows. Another Toyota, the Fortuner, is the country's top-selling SUV and one of the pricier cars to maintain a high position in the rankings. Cars that only just missed out on a top 20 spot include the Mazda CX-5 (1 216), Mercedes-Benz C-Class (1 131) and VW Polo Sedan (1 241).
Ranking
Make & Model
Sales
1.
Volkswagen Polo Vivo
7 651
2.
Volkswagen Polo
5 043
3.
Toyota Corolla Quest
3 005
4.
Toyota Fortuner
2 904
5.
Hyundai Grand i10
2 798
6.
Renault Kwid
2 669
7.
Toyota Etios
2 113
8.
Ford EcoSport
2 003
9.
Toyota Corolla
1 986
10.
Ford Figo
1 883
11.
Hyundai i20
1 733
12.
Kia Picanto
1 725
13.
Datsun Go!
1 692
14.
Toyota RAV4
1 523
15.
Suzuki Swift
1 412
16.
Volkswagen Tiguan
1 411
17.
Toyota Yaris
1 302
18.
Ford Everest
1 289
19.
Toyota Avanza
1 261
20.
Renault Sandero
1 252
Best-selling Double-Cab bakkies
During Q1 of this year, it was the Toyota Hilux that emerged as the best-selling Double-Cab, but can it hang on?
The tussle between the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger continues at the top and it will be interesting to see whether the recently updated Ranger will overtake the Hilux during the second quarter. These sales include Rental and Government sales. Isuzu's D-Max soldiers on reasonably well in third place, but Nissan won't be very happy with Navara sales (381). The Mercedes-Benz X-Class found 231 new homes in South Africa during this period. And near the bottom of the rankings, Mitsubishi will be hoping that its updated Triton will put in a much stronger showing going forward (102).
The Toyota Fortuner is our Adventure SUV of the year, crowned a second year running in the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards – Powered by WesBank.
Toyota's Fortuner continues to dominate the SUV segment in South Africa and is one of the country's favourite cars of any type. Ford will be pleased with continued sales support for its recently refreshed EcoSport, while Toyota's brand new RAV4 has gained immediate traction. Lower down the list, but still in the top 10, the presence of a Chinese vehicle, the Haval H2, is sure to raise eyebrows.
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class remains South Africa's favourite premium-badge car.
Traditionally the German premium brands (Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Audi) have been pretty resilient in tough market conditions, but in recent times they appear to be slipping down the lists in bigger steps. In this table, we list the top 20 products on offer from these 3 premium brands – notice how SUVs and crossovers are performing, as well as the absence on the list of the traditional big sedans where these brands originally built their premium status. But it's not all rosy for the smaller crossover offerings. Audi's Q2 failed to make this list (110 sales), and the BMW X2 only just scraped in.
While countless local bakkie enthusiasts are still celebrating the arrival of the Ranger Raptor, Ford South Africa invited members of the media to a sort of “State of the Nation” address by FMCSA general manager Neale Hill, which culminated in a tour of the Struandale engine plant. Ernest Page reports on his trip to Port Elizabeth…
Local engine production for export continues
The local motor industry is experiencing a bit of a downturn; partly due to the sluggish world economy, but also apprehension about South Africa's political climate. Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa general manager Neale Hill acknowledged that in 2019, sales have expectedly been lower than in previous years, but the company was confident it could ride out this wave of uncertainty and continue to expand its operations over the coming months. The R3-billion investment (announced in 2017) has led to sustained growth in FMCSA's capacity, including the establishment of its 24-hour/3-shift engine plant; Hill acknowledged that having a strong export component was critical to Ford's local subsidiary's globally relevance.
Ford SA exports both engines and fully-assembled Rangers and Everests.
The plant is now able to produce up to 250 000 engines per year as well as hundreds of thousands of components for export to 148 markets worldwide. In fact, the Silverton factory (in Pretoria) now has the capacity to produce up to 168 000 Rangers and Everests (combined) per year – an increase of 44 000 before the investment.
Ford employs approximately 4 300 people in South Africa. Additionally, it supports around 50 000 jobs within its value chain (people employed by its direct suppliers). Hill said: "As one of the country’s leading automotive manufacturers and exporters, Ford plays an important role in the prosperity and sustainability of the sector and the many thousands of people that it supports. Employees have the option to go for anything from marriage counselling to debt counselling and various other support systems to make sure that not only Ford Clients and shareholders are left satisfied.
New models for 2019
The Ford Mustang Bullit will be coming in very limited numbers.
As for Ford's product plans for the next few months, the most exciting new model will be the updated Mustang, which will arrive later this year. With it, comes 55 units of the limited-edition Mustang Bullit. The 2019 Bullit is a homage to Steve Mcqueen's epic 1968 Ford Mustang GT. The new one features a similar green paint job, but with much more power than its inspiration, boasting 338 kW and 529 Nm of torque from its 5.0-litre V8 engine.
Ford will also be releasing a not as exciting – but definitely more accessible – limited-edition Figo Blue, which features the same 1.5 litre 3-cylinder engine as its standard sibling, but with noticeable visual enhancements. The Figo Blue's roof is painted black to provide a contrast to the three available body colour choices: silver, white or grey, the sides of the car feature racy black striping and there are blue insets in the front bumper. All of this is complemented by a leather steering wheel, blue stitching for the gearshift gaiter, and the Figo Blu logo embroidered on the front floor mats.
Ford is hoping this special edition Figo Blu will bolster sales locally.
Notably, there was no mention of the 2019 Ford Fiesta ST. The previous version was loved by many and is still popular among younger hot hatch aficionados. However, it has been confirmed that the new model will not make it to our shores due to its incompatibility with SA-quality fuel.
Ford and World Vision South Africa
World Vision South Africa was a winner of the 2018 Bill Ford Better World Challenge and, for its efforts, it received a grant of $200 000 (approximately R2.8-million) for its pioneering concept to address the devastating drought affecting the Eastern Cape. Additional funding to the value of $130 000 (around R1.9-million) has since been awarded by the Ford Research and Advanced Engineering division.
Ford's World Vision brings water to hard-to-reach areas in the Eastern Cape.
The practical implementation of this grant was showcased in the form of the WaterGen device, which produces water from air. The device can produce up to 900 litres and is 100% mobile, which means it can be transported to remote locations. The system consists of a Generator, water purifier, trailer and a Ford Ranger (to tow it all) and it supports Early Childhood Development Centres in Uitenhage and KwaNobuhle.
“The Eastern Cape has been severely impacted by drought in recent years, and the poorest communities are the hardest hit. Accordingly, the project will primarily focus on assisting schools, clinics and Early Childhood Development Centres (ECDs), as well as households where the need is greatest,” said Chikondi Phiri, Officer in Charge, World Vision South Africa.
Honda South Africa has announced specifications and pricing for its updated Civic. Here's what has changed and how much the updated Honda Civic costs.
Honda has updated the Civic for South Africa. For 2019, there'll be 4 models with 2 engine choices. Visually, the new Civic can be identified by the new wheels, redesigned front grille, while the rear receives new chrome detailing designed to highlight the stance of the Honda, while chrome garnish has been added to the front of the 1.8 Comfort, as well as around the fog lamps of the 1.8 Elegance and 1.5T Executive models. Inside, the updated Civic features revisions to the noise insulation package and new finishes.
There are 2 engines to choose from and all are mated to CVTs. The first engine is a 1.8-litre naturally-aspirated 4-cylinder petrol with 104 kW and 174 Nm. The second is a turbocharged 1.5-litre 4-cylinder petrol motor which produces 127 kW and 220 Nm.
In terms of specification, all Honda Civics feature dual front, side and curtain airbags, complemented with a reverse camera and rear parking sensors on all, but the base model. Vehicle Stability Control is standard on all cars, as is Hill Start Assist, ABS anti-lock brakes and electronic brake force distribution (EBD). The touchscreen has been changed slightly and now features hard buttons. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is standard on all models, but the entry-level Civic. The top model looks to be very well specced in terms of safety as it features Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Following, Collision Mitigation Braking System, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keeping Assist System, Road Departure Mitigation, Forward Collision Warning and Lane watch with blind spot camera.
Honda Civic Price in South Africa (June 2019)
The updated Honda Civic comes with a five-year/200 000 km warranty, a five-year/90 000 km service plan, as well as three years of AA Roadside Assistance. Services are at 15 000 km intervals for the 1.8 models, and 10 000 km for the 1.5T variants.
The next-generation Hyundai i20 has been spotted. Some details.
Picture credit: S. Baldauf/SB-Medien
What you see here is the new Hyundai i20 which will be marketed as a 2021 model and was spotted testing in the Spanish mountains. Given the hot summer weather, some of the front camouflage had to be removed for ventilation and to keep the engine bay temperatures down. This gives us some idea of what the front end will look like. There's also going to be a performance-focused N version.
Hyundai could be offering an array of both turbocharged and naturally-aspirated petrol engines for its new i20. We've sampled the latest powertrain, a 1.0-litre turbocharged 3-cylinder with 88 kW and 172 Nm in the bigger Kona.
VW SUV customers, who prefer darkened styling details to reflective ones, now have the option on two new design upgrades.
Both the Touareg and Tiguan are now available with a Black Style Package in South Africa – and it does pretty much what it says.
For the Touareg, this Black Style Package is only applicable to the Executive derivative. The upgrades tally an R-specification bumper, with blackened chrome styling elements, darkened air-intakes, black roof rails and wing mirrors.
The grille is also darkened and the Black Style Package is finished off with 21-inch Suzuka themed alloy wheels. The total cost of upgrading a Touareg with the Black Style Package comes to R39 900.
If you prefer the smaller of VW’s premium SUVs, the same can be applied to VW’s Comfortline and Highline specification Tiguans. The only caveat is that you have to option the R-line package too.
All the Black Style Pack upgrades on Touareg are applied to Tiguan, with a few additions and differences. The Suzuka alloy wheels are a touch smaller, at 20-inches, and you get rear and side window privacy glass. Tiguan Black Style Pack vehicles also feature a black headliner inside and sport suspension at each wheel corner.
VW has quoted R25 200 as the price for a Tiguan Black Style Package upgrade. If you don’t mind washing your VW SUV more than once a week, these darkened design upgrades will certainly be worth considering.
New Kia Seltos for SA [w/video]
Kia has confirmed that its new global compact SUV will be called Seltos and it’s expected to reach South Africa in early 2020.
The Seltos name is derived from Greek mythology, more specifically, Celtos, the son of Hercules. The ‘S’, however, stands for speed and sportiness.
The new Kia Seltos is based on the SP Signature Concept which was recently shown at the Seoul Motor Show as is squarely aimed at youthful, tech-savvy buyers. The Seltos will be built in a new state-of-the-art assembly plant in India following an investment of $1.1-billion (R16-billion) in 2018. The Seltos will cater for right-hand drive markets and is therefore ideally suited for introduction in South Africa to fill the gap left by the now locally discontinued Soul compact family car.
Kia says that the Seltos combines a sporty design with the space and capability of a traditional SUV, but in a compact product offering. The interior also boasts a 10.25-inch infotainment system along with Sound Mood Lighting. An 8.0-inch head-up display is also part of the tech inclusion for the Seltos along which displays basic information along with turn-by-turn navigation. For audiophiles, there is the option of a banging 8-speaker Bose sound system.
Power comes in the form of naturally-aspirated and turbocharged petrol engines as well as turbodiesel units. The particular market will dictate which variants go where and are available with either 7-speed dual-clutch, 6-speed auto or CVT gearbox.
Kia has upped the safety spec of its 'global' cars with the Seltos, which includes vehicle stability management and traction control systems. It's also equipped with 6 airbags, although it will surely depend on the derivative as to how many make it all the way to South Africa.
The Kia Seltos sits on a choice of 16-, 17- or 18-inch crystal cut alloy wheels.
Ford has revealed the engine specification of its new Mustang Shelby GT500 and the numbers are astonishing.
The most potent Pony car ever built will also be Ford’s most powerful road car, eclipsing the company’s mid-engined GT supercar.
Engineers used the Mustang GT350’s 5.2-litre naturally-aspirated V8 as a platform for the Shelby GT500. The flat-plane crankshaft was sacrificed, but they’ve added a supercharger and the claims are lofty.
Ford says this new 5.2-litre V8 is the world’s most power-dense production supercharged engine and with it rating at 567 kW and 847 Nm, there is confidence in that claim.
The supercharger will add some mechanical drag and additional intake pressure, so don’t expect the Shelby GT500 to have the same 8 250 rpm redline that the naturally-aspirated 5.2-litre GT350 has.
What is perhaps even more extraordinary than the engine’s output is the fact that Ford will be offering a carbon-fibre driveshaft and seven-speed dual-clutch transmission for the GT500, at a time when many European high-performance vehicles are reverting to traditional automatic gearboxes for extreme output engines.
There will also be an optional carbon-fibre package which adds composite wheels (expensive if sourced aftermarket), an adjustable carbon-fibre rear wing and front winglets.
Best of all? Mustang Shelby GT500 owners will have the option of ordering their cars as pure two-seaters, with the rear passenger accommodation deleted.
Local Shelby dealers will no doubt be frothing at the opportunity to import a few of these, but no mention of right-hand-drive derivatives has been mentioned, yet.
Renault Duster (2013-2018) Buyer’s Guide
South Africa might have been late to receive the Renault (née Dacia) Duster (in 2013), but it proved a strong seller right from the start. The 1st-generation Duster offered excellent value for money, plus endearing ruggedness and simplicity, which explains why it’s such a popular used buy. What should you pay, and what are its shortcomings?
Introduced in South Africa during October 2013, the Duster compact family car has become a regular sight on our roads, with around 15 000 sold from 2013 to 2018. It was positioned as an affordable, spacious and well-equipped compact SUV that wasn’t shy to get its boots dirty. There are currently more than 300 1st-generation Dusters listed on Cars.co.za, with prices starting just below R110 000. Are they worth a closer look?
Cheap and seemingly quite rugged, the Duster appeals to those buyers who actually need a vehicle that can handle the rough.
Upon launch, the Duster was offered with 2 engines and in 2 trim levels. The 1.6-litre 16-valve base engine (75 kW/145 Nm) is a proven unit, but relatively thirsty, with a claimed combined-cycle consumption figure of 7.5L/100 km, which translates to around 9.0 L/100 km in the real world. It was offered exclusively in 4×2 guise and in Expression and Dynamique trim.
The 1.5-litre dCi engine (80 kW/240 Nm) proved popular from the start, particularly as it boasted an impressive economy figure of 5.5 L/100 km, which meant consumption of below 7.0 L/100 km was achievable. It also delivered its substantial torque across the rev range, from a low 1 750 rpm (on the 4×4). The turbodiesel engine was mated with a 6-speed manual transmission, and 4×2 and 4×4 versions were offered in Dynamique trim.
Expression might have been the “base” specification, but it still included air-conditioning, electric windows, height-adjustable steering wheel and driver’s seat, radio/CD player with USB and Bluetooth compatibility, dual front/side airbags and ABS with EBD – but sadly, no ESP.
The Dynamique trim level was particularly generous, with items such as 16-inch alloys, leather-wrapped steering wheel and, perhaps most importantly, a Media Nav infotainment touchscreen with navigation as standard – unfortunately, the screen is mounted too low. The 4×4 version also benefitted from the addition of ESP (electronic stability control), and a Nissan-derived all-wheel-drive system with 3 modes (2WD, Auto and Lock).
The facelifted version arrived in August 2015, sporting a significantly revised front-end with a redesigned grille design.
The arrival of the facelifted Duster (in 2015) coincided with a move of production facility. Initially, Dusters sold in South Africa were built in India, but as of the introduction of the revamped version, production shifted to a plant in Romania. Besides the obvious exterior cosmetic alterations (and some trim revisions inside), the major changes were related to specification, with all models now boasting rear park-distance sensors and cruise control. Leather upholstery was an option on Dynamique variants. The range’s line-up remained unchanged, but interestingly the turbodiesel 4×2 was now claimed to be more fuel efficient, with a combined cycle figure of only 4.8 L/100 km (translating to about 5.8 L/100 km in the real world).
In June 2016, Renault added a limited edition EXPLORE variant to the line-up, based on the 1.6L Dynamique. It featured additions such as a nudge bar, different 16-inch alloy wheels, reverse-view camera and wheel-arch protectors. At the time of the derivative’s introduction, Renault said only 100 of these EXPLORE variants would be available.
Fast forward another year, and Renault finally added a self-shifting Duster to the local line-up, in the shape of a dual-clutch transmission equipped 1.5 dCi 4×2 Dynamique EDC (same transmission as in the Kadjar). Renault claimed a low consumption figure of 4.8 L/100 km for the derivative.
? The Duster is a spacious compact SUV, though the large boot does come at the cost of some rear-seat legroom.
Space and Practicality: There were few (if any) similarly priced compact crossovers that could compete with the Duster in terms of spaciousness and practicality. Inside, it feels just a little bit wider than most of its rivals, while the extra length translates into a spacious luggage compartment (at the cost of some rear legroom). The load bay measures in at a claimed 475 litres and note that all Dynamique-spec derivatives had a full-size spare wheel while the base model 1.6 Expression made do with a space saver. Of course, the rear seatback was split 60:40 to further aid practicality. It’s a pity that the rear seats don’t fold completely flat, however.
With decent ground clearance (205 mm in 4×2 variants, slightly higher for the 4WD) and generously side-walled tyres, the Duster is a practical all-rounder that doesn’t mind traversing the odd bit of rough gravel. In fact, given the deteriorating state of South Africa’s roads, it’s pretty much perfectly suited to our local conditions.
Although by no means luxurious, the Duster cabin offered plenty of showroom appeal. Pity the screen was mounted too low.
Good standard specification: At the price, the Duster offered a cabin constructed of decent-enough materials, and made up for any shortfalls in that regard with generous specification. Although Expression specification wasn’t as basic as you’d imagine, we’d definitely advise paying more for a Dynamique derivative as it includes ESP (stability control) on the 4WD, as well as the Media Nav touchscreen navigation system. All Dusters sold locally featured dual front- and front side airbags. You’ll also appreciate the cruise control fitted to later model-year cars.
Using off-road hardware from sister company Nissan, the Duster 4WD is a capable mud-plugger.
Easygoing nature: The Duster is set up for comfort and easy driving. The suspension is softly sprung, so it rides with surprising suppleness, and this aspect will be particularly appreciated on gravel roads. The engines are by no means performance-oriented, but provide sufficient urge for overtaking out on the open road. The steering systems and transmissions are tuned for ease-of-use as well.
Surprising off-road ability: Given the rugged nature of the Duster, it’s not a car that you mind using a little more “harshly” than the more “poseur-oriented” crossovers it competes with on price. So it’s a good thing, then, that the 4WD version is actually pretty good off the beaten track.
Using the same all-wheel-drive system as the contemporary Nissan X-Trail, it usually runs in front-wheel drive, but can also be shifted to Auto (which determines the torque spread between the axles automatically) and Lock, which, as the name suggests, splits the torque evenly between the front and rear wheels. Combined with a short 1st-gear ratio, good approach and departure angles and decent ground clearance, the Duster 4WD will go places where most compact crossovers will be reluctant to tread…
Product weaknesses
In general, Duster owners seem to love their vehicles. In the Cars.co.za Ownership Satisfaction Survey, 95.2% of owners said that the Duster had lived up to their expectations. That said, no car is perfect, and there are a few niggles.
The cabin was markedly improved at the time of the 2016 facelift. Look out for a wobbly driver’s seat on the test drive.
In the same survey, the Duster came in for some criticism for “excessive noise” as well as “loose trim and rattles”. Neither of these should raise too much cause for concern, as cars of similar initial pricing will probably suffer the same maladies.
When you’re out test driving one of these Renaults, take note of the following:
Rust: Some earlier cars can show signs of rust, so be sure to inspect carefully. Pay particular attention to the tailgate hinges, A-pillars, rain gutters, door sills and under the bonnet. It’s worth lifting up the load bay’s carpet and have a look there too, and check the suspension components while you’re at it. Romanian-built cars appear to have benefitted from better rust-proofing/paint quality. Renault South Africa is, however, aware of the problem, and has an ongoing support programme that aims to resolve this issue with all affected vehicles as they come through Renault service centres.
Underbody damage: Previous owners of the 4WD derivatives might have been tempted to venture a little too far off-road, so check the Duster’s underbody for signs of off-road damage. While you’re there, also make sure the spare wheel is present and correct.
Loose driver’s seat: On several of the cars we looked at the driver’s seat was wobbly – apparently caused by the height-adjustment mechanism. This can be quite an irritating issue, so have it attended to by the dealership/owner.
Power loss: Not reported too frequently,but something to keep an eye out for is that the petrol engine’s ignition coils can die. If a Duster’s coils are suspect, you should be able to feel/hear a misfire during a test drive, and if it’s present, it’s worth asking the dealer to sort it out – or move on to the next car.
Rear footwell water leak: If you open a Duster and smell damp, check the rear footwells. On some early cars, a channel/cavity in the underbody resulted in water draining into the rear footwells.
What to pay?
There were more than 300 Dusters listed on Cars.co.za during the time this article was being researched, so there should be lots to choose from.
This very neat 2016 Duster 1.6 Dynamique was offered by Reeds N1 in Cape Town for below R190k. It had only 35 000 km on the odo.
R100 000 to R120 000: You can pick up a Duster for as little as R100 000, but be aware that these are usually high-mileage cars with various cosmetic issues. The cloth seats, in particular, are often stained/dirty. Also, keep in mind that the earlier Indian-built cars are more likely to have issues with rust than their predecessors. For closer to R120 000 (or just over), you can pick up a relatively neat 1.6 Expression.
R120 000 to R150 000: In this price range you can find some facelifted Dusters, but they’re pretty rare. Most likely, if you’re looking for a 1.5 dCi Dynamique AWD, you’ll have to make do with a pre-facelift car (which is not the end of the world), while a neat, low-mileage, post-facelift 1.6 Dynamique is also attractive in this price range.
R150 000 to R210 000: In this price range you can find pretty much whatever Duster you’d like, but a late-model (post 2016) 1.5 dCi Dynamique AWD would be our pick. Good examples of these cars are starting to appear in this price range.
This 2016 Duster 1.5 Dynamique AWD at Imperial Select Table View was going for around R210k, with 70 000km on the clock.
R210 000 to R250 000: At the upper end of price range, the obvious target vehicle is the EDC-equipped (automatic) 1.5 dCi Dynamique 4×2 that was added to the line-up in 2017. There aren’t many out there, however.
Our advice would be to look for a low-mileage, post-facelift (2016 onwards) 1.5 dCi Dynamique 4WD variant.
We think the best choice would be a clean, post-2016-facelift 1.5 dCi Dynamique 4WD. Seeing as Dusters were sold with 5-year/150 000 km warranties, a relatively low-mileage 2016/17 car would still offer some warranty cover. Besides, the Duster’s ruggedness is one of its most appealing factors, so it would be a shame to miss out on its surprising off-road ability by not going for the all-wheel-drive variant. The turbodiesel engine is also significantly more economical than the 1.6-litre petrol powerplant, and when you opt for the 4WD, you also get ESP (electronic stability control).
Prices for neat post-facelift Duster 1.5 dCi Dynamique 4WD start at around the R190 000 mark.
Verdict
For adventurous families buying on a relatively tight budget, the Duster is a highly appealing option.
The Renault Duster is a deservedly popular offering courtesy of excellent value for money, surprising ruggedness (given its low purchase price) and overall practicality. As ever, condition is important, but overall, the Duster has a solid reputation in the local market, and owners tend to love them.
It’s not easy finding suitable rivals for the Duster, either, because most of its competitors offer neither the space, nor the necessary competence off the beaten track. If you don’t mind a slightly smaller, less “gravel-oriented” vehicle, Ford’s EcoSport is an obvious rival. Daihatsu is, of course, no longer distributed in South Africa, but its Terios remains highly respected and because of its good build quality, should offer years of reliable service.
Parts pricing
We asked Renault for the prices (incl. VAT) of some of the major parts for 2 of the most popular models: the 2014 1.6 Dynamique and 2017 1.5 dCi Dynamique.
Lexus has revealed an upgrade of its GX SUV, which is in fact, a twin of Toyota’s Land Cruiser Prado.
Differentiated from the Prado by its enormous spindle grille – a styling feature of Lexus SUVs and crossovers – the new GX also mounts L-shaped LED pods in its redesigned headlamps.
Inside the cabin, it's similar to what awaits a Prado owner when they set out on an adventure – or their daily commute. The only difference is that Lexus has made the GX cabin trim a touch smarter, with aluminium and wood detailing.
With a ladder-frame Land Cruiser platform, this is a Lexus with prodigious off-road ability. The all-wheel drive system links with a Torsen limited-slip centre differential and there is a proper low-range transfer case for challenging terrain.
Semi-autonomous off-road driving capability is provided by a low-speed crawl function, with the engine, transmission and braking system doing all the work whilst you simply steer up, over or around obstacles.
Lexus has added some additional off-road grade features. These include a panoramic view camera system for manoeuvring in tight terrain, transmission cooler for peak torque applications in desert conditions and terrain impact protection for the petrol tank
Powering the Lexus GX is a 4.6-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine, producing 224kW and 446Nm. It drives through a six-speed automatic transmission.
Global distribution for the Lexus GX remains concentrated on the North American market so don't expect to see this beast in South Africa.
