SA’s best brands for after-sales service. Have your say…

Which car brands provide the best after-sales service based on consumers’ willingness to recommend franchised dealerships to others? Cars.co.za’s Ownership Satisfaction Survey holds the answers. Tell us about your car and you too will have a say in which brands and vehicles will emerge victorious in the next iteration of #CarsAwards… 

Do you own a vehicle that is less than 5 years old and serviced by a franchised dealer? Participate in our survey

For the past 4 years, Cars.co.za and Lightstone Consumer have conducted an in-depth Ownership Satisfaction Survey to gather real consumer input on local buying, servicing and ownership experiences. Since 2015, thousands of verified surveys have been completed by South African vehicle owners, resulting in one of the most comprehensive and significant databases of its type. What’s more, the survey’s findings have made critical impacts on the outcomes of all 4 iterations of the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards – powered by WesBank (#CarsAwards).


Toyota narrowly defeated Suzuki to win the 2018/19 #CarsAwards Brand of the Year title… which brand will triumph in 2020?

After-sales service ranked (by brand)

Among other questions, the survey asks owners to indicate the likelihood that they’d recommend the dealership where they serviced, repaired or maintained their vehicles (at a franchised outlet), to a friend or family member. According to our most recent data, based on their after-sales experiences, owners of the following brands were most likely to recommend their brands’ dealerships to other consumers (in descending order, note that only manufacturers/importers with more than 150 respondents were taken in account):

  1. Suzuki
  2. Toyota
  3. Mazda
  4. Mercedes-Benz
  5. Volvo

When we mined the data from the Cars.co.za Ownership Satisfaction Survey at a similar stage last year, Mercedes-Benz was ranked first, followed by Suzuki and Honda.

The fact that Suzuki and Toyota have moved into the top 2 spots is quite telling… In the 2018/19 #CarsAwards, Toyota narrowly superseded Suzuki as the award programme’s Brand of the Year. The prestigious title is determined entirely by market and customer data, the latter from the survey (brands’ sales and after-sales service ratings are particularly impactful). Toyota also won the title in the inaugural 2015/16 #CarsAwards, while Suzuki triumphed in 2016/17 and 2017/18, which means the Brand of the Year title has been dominated by those 2 Japanese companies.


Cars.co.za editorial and guest judges test #CarsAwards finalists back to back, but the public has an equally-big say.

50% impact on #CarsAwards category winners

#CarsAwards ­– conceived to be South Africa’s definitive automotive awards programme – has grown in stature, reach and influence since the inaugural event in 2016. Supported by WesBank, South Africa’s largest vehicle finance provider, the programme recognises the best model derivatives in respective segments of the new vehicle market and the multifaceted judging process for 2019/20 #CarsAwards will begin shortly…

There are several reasons why the #CarsAwards is of greater significance than most other automotive awards programmes. For one, the winners aren’t chosen exclusively by motoring journalists, who report on (and review) the latest new vehicles in the market.


VW's performance in the survey helped the Polo 1.0TSI Comfortline Auto win its category in the 2018/19 #CarsAwards.  

Members of Cars.co.za’s editorial team choose the finalists and a combined judging panel (including guest judges from various backgrounds and fields of expertise) compile the finalists’ individual scores after they’ve evaluated the vehicles back-to-back during a thorough two-day test at the Gerotek facility. However, the judges’ findings only make up 50% of the finalist vehicles’ final scores, the rest is based on the findings of the survey.

“When it comes to what it's like to live with a vehicle, you simply have to enter into a conversation with the people that live with those cars every day… the owners," explains Cars.co.za Consumer Experience Manager, Hannes Oosthuizen."With 50% of a vehicle’s final score determined by a brand’s performance in the survey, a car only really stands a good chance of winning if its brand’s dealer network delivers solid after-sales service."


Will Suzuki break its tie for #CarsAwards Brand of the Year wins with Toyota and win the pinnacle trophy for the 3rd time? 

It’s time to have your say!

To reiterate, ongoing public participation in the Cars.co.za Ownership Satisfaction Survey enables Cars.co.za to deliver the most relevant and accurate data-driven insights to consumers PLUS the survey represents a golden opportunity for owners to have a say in the outcome of the #CarsAwards (the findings of the survey have a 50% bearing on which vehicles are named category winners of the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards – powered by WesBank as well as a 100% bearing on which manufacturer/importer wins the prestigious Brand of the Year award).

To participate in the survey (even if you have before, you’re can do so again provided you've either bought a new car, or had a service experience) click below:

Do you own a vehicle that is less than 5 years old and serviced by a franchised dealer? Participate in our survey

Related content:

Winners: 2018/19 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards – powered by WesBank [w/Video]

Volkswagen SA rake it in at 2019 #CarsAwards

2018/19 #CarsAwards Testing Days a Resounding Success

Suzuki's Brand of the Year milestone

Volkswagen SA To Launch Golf GTI TCR

Volkswagen South Africa has confirmed it will be launching the Golf GTI TCR in limited numbers.

The Golf GTI TCR shares its name with the TCR series racing car but this road-going TCR version develops no less than 213 kW and 380 Nm of torque from its turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine which is mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Zero to 100 kph is claimed at 5.6 seconds while top speed is 260 kph (optional).

In terms of outputs, the GTI TCR slots in below the limited edition GTI Clubsport S which offers 228 kW and 380 Nm but with a zero to 100 kph time of 5.8 seconds (top speed 260 kph), the GTI TCR is marginally quicker.  

The Golf GTI TCR rides on 18-inch Belvedere forged alloy wheels as standard and is equipped with a front-axle differential lock and perforated disc brakes. Exterior features include LED headlights, black exterior mirror housings, sill extensions, front splitter, a TCR roof spoiler and a rear diffuser. Additional styling options include a carbon mirror housings, black painted roof, honeycomb decor side panel foils and 19-inch wheels.

Volkswagen says it's new Golf GTI TCR will be priced "under R700 000." Should you buy one or go for a Golf R? We'll let you know once we've driven the newcomer.

Related Content

Volkswagen Golf GTI (2017) Video Review

Volkswagen Golf GTI (2017) Quick Review

Volkswagen Golf R (2017) Quick Review

Volkswagen Golf GTD (2017) Video Review

Volkswagen Golf R, GTI & GTD (2017) Track Comparison Video

Drag Race: VW Golf R vs Golf GTI [Video]

Ultimate List: Rivals to the Volkswagen Golf GTI

Mercedes EQV is a Benz Battery Bus

Mercedes-Benz has ventured into electrifying a vehicle segment where Tesla has no product: vans.

The latest model release from Mercedes is called the EQV and it is a large, battery-powered van. Think of this as an electric V-Class and you’d be imagining an accurate interpretation of what Mercedes-Benz’s product planners were attempting to achieve.

Although the EQV looks quite similar to any current V-Class in its proportions, this battery bus features a different grille and front fascia.

Inside the cabin switchgear, touch surfaces and seating arrangements are what you’d find in any V-Class, but it is under the EQV’s floor where its differentiation is to be discovered.

Mercedes engineers have packaged the van with a 100 kWh battery pack, mounted in the van’s floor, which drives an electric motor to peak at 150 kW. That power number compares favourably with the most potent turbodiesel V-Class variants.


With 150 kW and 405 km of range, the electric van makes a lot of sense.

Top speed is limited to 160 kph (to conserve battery power) and Mercedes is promising a usable range of 405 km. Recharging is assisted with an 11 kW on-board charger unit, which enables this battery van to charge from 10- to 80% capacity in less than 45 min.

What is notable about this EQV, is that it drives the front wheels, unlike all other Mercedes-Benz vans, which are rear-wheel drive.

For a long vehicle, which will often be loaded with many passengers or luggage, front-wheel drive is generally seen as a less desirable configuration, due to the potential of wheel scrabble when climbing steep corners at speed, in the wet, such as a hotel driveway. Mercedes-Benz’s engineers believe that they have managed to overcome any traction issues by meticulous calibrating the electric motor’s power distribution and throttle response.

Mercedes has not confirmed a global delivery timetable for the EQV yet (August 2019).

Related content

Mercedes-Benz V-Class (2019) International Launch Review

2019 Hyundai H1: Now with 12 Seats

Ford Tourneo Custom Limited for SA 

A new range-topping Tourneo Custom Limited is now available in South Africa, bringing higher levels of comfort and luxury to the range. See details below…

The new Ford Tourneo Custom Limited is offered in short-wheelbase form only and stands alongside the familiar Tourneo Custom Ambiente and Trend long-wheelbase derivatives. 

Unique features seen on the Tourneo Custom Limited include body colour-coded side mouldings while riding on 16-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels. ‘Salerno’ partial leather trim is found inside, adding a more luxurious touch to the cabin. The front seats are also heated while the driver’s seat benefits from 10-way power adjustment. 

The cabin is flexible too and the seats can be folded flat, tumbled or removed entirely to suit your transport needs, whether you are moving goods or people. 

Key standard features include cruise control, front and rear park distance control with a rearview camera, 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), Hill Launch Assist (HLA), Load Adaptive Control (LAC) and Roll-Over Mitigation (ROM). A towbar is also standard as is Trailer Hitch Assist and Trailer Sway Control.  

In terms of infotainment, a 6-speaker radio, with Bluetooth, USB and auxiliary port is fitted and can be controlled using mounted controls on the steering wheel.  

Engine Power

The Tourneo Custom Limited is powered by a 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine which is mated with a 6-speed manual transmission. Outputs are 114 kW and 385 Nm. 

The Tourneo Custom Limited has a maximum tow rating of 1 600 kg for a braked trailer and 750 kg for an unbraked trailer. Gross payload is rated at 939 kg. 

Ford Tourneo Custom – Price in SA 

2.2 TDCi LWB Ambiente 74kW 6MT – R568 700

2.2 TDCi LWB Trend 92kW 6MT – R591 300

2.2 TDCi SWB Limited 114kW 6MT – R637 200

A 4-year/120 000 km warranty and 6-year/90 000 km service is standard as well as 3-years/unlimited km roadside assistance and a 5-year/unlimited km corrosion warranty. 

Buy a new or used Ford Tourneo Custom on Cars.co.za

 

 

All-New Audi RS6 Avant Revealed

This is it! The all-new Audi RS6 is here. Here's all you need to know about the popular powerhouse wagon.

The cult following of Audi's performance wagons will be pleased. This is the all-new Audi RS6 Avant. Visually it's a massive step from the current Audi S6 Avant. There's a lot going on and just look at the aggressive touches! The bold front end, massive alloy wheels and Audi RS exhaust pipes mean business. The big news will please American fans. "Throughout our 25-year RS history, the Audi RS 6 Avant is one of our absolute icons with a large global fan base,” says Oliver Hoffmann, Managing Director of Audi Sport GmbH. “We will also be offering the RS 6 Avant in North America for the very first time. As such, we will be tapping into a new market with huge potential and generating further growth.”

Powered by a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged petrol V8 with 441 kW and 800 Nm, it'll be capable of some serious performance. Audi's RS division claims its new performance wagon will do 0-100 kph in a claimed 3.6 seconds and will run to a limited top speed of 250 kph. It will do 0-200 kph in 12 seconds, which is seriously quick. The vehicle features an 8-speed Tiptronic setup with launch control functionality. Power goes to all 4 wheels in a 40:60 split with the all-mechanical centre differential doing all the work. Up to 70% can go to the front wheels while 85% can go to the rears. 

This engine is also fitted with 48-volt hybrid technology. It works with a belt alternator starter which can recover up to 12 kW of power during light deceleration and store it in a lithium-ion battery. The result is a vehicle which can coast at up to 40 seconds with the engine off and it'll activate the start/stop at speeds of up to 21 kph. Audi claims a fuel saving of 0.8 L/100 km using this tech.

Inside, expect the latest Audi infotainment system as well as the enhanced version of the Audi Virtual Cockpit. It'll also feature the same new touchpad/climate control setup as the one we've seen in the Audi Q8. 

At this stage, there's no word on South African availability, but European customers will be getting their cars as early as January 2020.

Further Reading

Spy Shots: 2020 Audi RS6 Avant

Audi RS6 Avant vs Jaguar F-Type Coupe AWD R – The Final Showdown

Audi Teases RS Family for 2019

Drag Race: Audi RS6 Avant vs Jaguar F-Type V8 AWD

Audi Plans A Big 2019

Opel Combo 1.6TD Panel Van (2019) Review

Panel vans are hard-working commercial vehicles that are often required to carry all kinds of loads, sometimes over long distances, day in and day out. Should you consider the recently launched Opel Combo Cargo for your business… over a conventional single-cab bakkie, for example? Let’s take a closer look…

We Like: Engine performance, ride and handling, practicality

We Don’t Like: Rearward visibility is problematic, no rear PDC 

Fast Facts

  • Price: R315 675 (August 2019)
  • Engine: 1.6-litre turbodiesel 
  • Outputs: 68 kW/230 Nm
  • Transmission: 5-speed manual 
  • Fuel economy: 4.8 L/100 km  

What is it? 

Opel welcomed the Combo Cargo to the local market in April 2019 – it’s aimed at small and medium businesses that require a safe, practical vehicle to execute daily business activities with confidence. The Combo is a rival to the Volkswagen Caddy and Peugeot Partner, to name 2 examples, but it’s also an alternative option for those who may be considering buying a single-cab bakkie for business use. Of course, if you are in the business of moving people or simply looking for a practical MPV, Opel offers an option in the form of the Combo Cargo's sibling, the new Combo Life. 

The Combo Cargo, however, is offered in both short and long-wheelbase configurations (with the former on test here) and it’s worth mentioning that the Combo currently holds the 2019 Van of the Year title. 

How it performs in terms of…

Performance & Handling


A punchy engine and good overall ride quality are key strengths of the Combo Cargo.  

The Combo Cargo makes use of a 1.6-litre turbodiesel engine (the same unit that powers the recently-introduced Opel Crossland X 1.6TD Enjoy turbodiesel derivative); it produces peak outputs of 68 kW and 230 Nm of torque and is mated with a 5-speed manual transmission as standard. 

The engine does sound a bit gruff and unrefined when you start it up first thing in the morning, but it quietens down notably once it has reached its optimal operating temperature. The Combo Cargo impressed us by delivering commendable in-gear punch, which is useful when you need to execute quick overtaking manoeuvres on the highway – it’s surprisingly nippy between "robots" too. Despite being marginally notchy in feel, the transmission has a direct shift action and executes gear changes positively. Efficiency is another highlight of the 1.6 TD… while Opel claims 4.8 L/100 km for this short-wheelbase derivative, you can expect returns closer to 6.0 L/100 km, depending on how heavily you load (and drive) it. 

Another impressive feature of this Combo Cargo is its ride and handling balance. Ride comfort is not something one would typically associate with a panel van, but we found the Opel to be comfortably sprung to cope with road imperfections (the South African road network offers a plethora of those!) and it offers a level of ride comfort comparable with that of a typical compact passenger car, perhaps even better than some budget-oriented ones, which is quite an achievement.  The steering is direct and responsive to inputs, which contribute to a generally-positive driving experience. 

Interior quality and features


The interior is robust and well screwed together while also offering reasonable levels of comfort for its intended purpose.

The Combo Cargo’s interior, in contrast with that of a typical workhorse bakkie, is not utterly utilitarian. The cabin feels solidly-made, the cloth seats are comfortable and there is considerable storage space available under the roof of the cabin, where things such as files and paperwork can be stored without cluttering the passenger cell. We also like the grab handles, which are handy for lifting yourself into the cabin, if needs must. 

A basic 4-speaker radio system with Bluetooth functionality and a USB port is fitted as standard, as is air conditioning. What's more, the Combo Cargo is relatively well-equipped with safety features, including 2 airbags, ABS with EBD, stability control and hill start assist. 

By virtue of the enclosed load bay, there’s no rear-view mirror, so rearward visibility is provided by the side mirrors only. Therefore, with the absence of rear park distance control and a reverse-view camera, the driver needs to be vigilant when reversing to avoid unwanted bumper scrapes/bashes. 

Practicality


The Combo Cargo's load space is generous and easily accessed from either the rear or sides of the vehicle. 

In an effort to test the Combo’s outright practicality, we put it to work! We loaded it up with a rather large consignment of wine, as well as a variety of household items that needed to be moved (see above).

Needless to say, the Opel swallowed the load with ease. Loading is made easier with a low floor as well as with 2 sliding side doors and double rear (cabinet-style) doors that provide easy access to your cargo. Loops located on the load floor can be used to secure items (in other words, prevent them from shifting around while you are driving). The maximum payload capacity of this short-wheelbase derivative is rated at 600 kg, while the long-wheelbase version can carry up to 1 000 kg. Maximum towing capacity with a braked trailer is rated at 1 250 kg. 

From a security perspective, the Combo Cargo offers greater protection from theft than a single-cab bakkie because its cargo area is enclosed. 

Price and warranty

The Opel Combo is priced from R315 675 and comes with a 3-year/120 000 km warranty and a 3-year 60 000 km service plan. 

Buy a new or used Opel Combo on Cars.co.za

Verdict


The Opel Combo Cargo is eminently capable and worthy of consideration if you need a practical vehicle to serve your business. 

The Combo Cargo proved a very capable mover of goods and bulky items. The 1.6-litre turbodiesel engine is impressively tractable, even when the Opel's loaded to near-capacity, and offers good fuel efficiency, while the cabin is surprisingly comfortable and has ample oddment storage space.

Most importantly, the 1.6 TD panel van's cargo-carrying capabilities and general practicality are notable. Opel's newcomer also happens to be keenly-priced compared with its Volkswagen Caddy rival and is only slightly more expensive than the equivalent Peugeot Partner derivative.

In some respects, the Combo Cargo represents a more astute purchasing proposition than a single-cab bakkie. Given the Opel's competitive price point, its secure load bay is a major advantage. If you operate a rubble-removal business, for example, a single-cab bakkie would be a better option, but if you need to deliver valuable or fragile items, then the 1.6 TD panel van is perhaps more suitable. It’s also worth mentioning that the Combo Cargo offers, comparatively, much more advertising space across its elevated sheet metal, which makes it simpler to market your business boldly.   

Related content:

The Journey Karoo: Opel Crossland X Tackles Swartberg Pass

Opel Combo Life (2019) Specs & Price

Opel Astra Receives Mild Facelift

6th-Generation Opel Corsa Fully Revealed

New Diesel Opel Crossland X for SA

Spy Shots: 2020 Audi RS Q8

This is the Audi RS Q8, spotted in its lightest camouflage yet. When it comes to market, it will be the most powerful SUV offered by the Ingolstadt-based brand.

Picture credit: S. Baldauf/SB-Medien

After Audi revealed its SQ8 SUV with its monstrous diesel power, we did wonder if there was going to be something for the petrol fans. The rumours were rife that an RS Q8 was in the offing and our previous spy photos just showed a heavily camouflaged Q8. Now, we get to look at the near-ready RS Q8. Spotted by our photographers at the Nurburgring, this unit has the full bodykit on display showing off the massive intake, wheels and RS sports exhausts at the rear. 

The only question left to answer is what engine will be under the bonnet? There's talk of the 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 setup from the Lambo Urus doing duty, while another school of thought suggests the 4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine with electric assist will make an appearance. The second engine produces 500 kW and 900 Nm, making the Audi RS Q8 one very brisk machine.

Further Reading

Audi SQ8 Is a 900 Nm Monster

Porsche reveals 500 kW Cayenne E-Hybrid

Audi Q8 55TFSI quattro (2019) Review [w/Video]

Volkswagen Polo Vivo Sound Edition Price in South Africa

Volkswagen SA has created a special-edition Polo Vivo to celebrate the love of music and it's on sale now!

The Volkswagen Polo Vivo is one of South Africa's most popular cars. Based on the previous generation Volkswagen Polo, the Vivo offers good levels of spec and space. It's available with a naturally-aspirated petrol engine, while a range-topping turbo GT has a slight performance edge.

Now for 2019, Volkswagen SA has created the Polo Vivo Sound Edition, which will go on sale in South Africa in the third quarter of 2019. It's claimed to be a celebration of the love of music as well as the success of the Vivo brand in South Africa and offers some interesting features.

Visually, it has orange wing mirrors and audio-themed decals on the sides. There are also tasty-looking 16-inch Rivazza alloy wheels. Inside, there's an uprated audio system comprising R340G Radio with App-Connect and a 6-speaker system with subwoofer. 

The Polo Vivo Sound Edition is based on the Polo Vivo Comfortline, which is powered by a 1.4-litre naturally-aspirated 4-cylinder engine with 63 kW and 132 Nm. Power goes to the front wheels via a 5-speed manual gearbox. 

Volkswagen Polo Vivo Sound Edition Price in South Africa (August 2019)

Polo Vivo Sound Edition 1.4 63kW Comfortline                     R220 000

The Polo Vivo Sound Edition comes standard with a 3-year/120 000km warranty and a 6-year anti-corrosion warranty. Volkswagen South Africa maintenance or service plans are optionally available. Service intervals are every 15 000 km.

Want to buy a Volkswagen Polo Vivo? Browse new and used examples here.

Further Reading

Volkswagen Polo Vivo GT (2018) Quick Review

Volkswagen Polo Vivo 1.4 Comfortline (2018) Review

Volkswagen Polo Vivo (2018) Launch Drive

Merc A250e is Merc’s Electric Hot Hatch

Rapid and economical new compact hybrids from Merc. 

Mercedes-Benz has broadened its electrification strategy by revealing two new plug-in hybrid vehicle options.

Instead of applying its advanced hybrid technology to a large SUV or luxury limousine, Mercedes-Benz has added lithium-ion battery packs and plug-in recharge capacity to its smallest vehicle lines: A- and B-Class.

These are the cars most likely to be used by owners of the brand who live in crowded inner-city areas and as a plug-in hybrid, the A-Class platform makes a lot of sense.

Although efficiency is the goal, these new Mercedes-Benz compact hybrids offer very impressive performance. A 15.6kWh lithium-ion battery pack powers an integrated electric motor housed in the eight-speed automatic transmission, which make the new A250e and B250e very fast – and light on fuel. 


Combine the electric and petrol motors and the A250e will crank out 160 kW and 450 Nm.

Combined outputs, with the 1.33-litre four-cylinder and electric motor working together, rate at 160 kW and 450 Nm – and yes, that is a lot of torque for an A- or B-Class. The electric motor can draw 75 kW and 300 Nm of energy conversion from its battery pack. It can also power these new Mercs on pure electric power for up to 70 km, which is great news for any potential A250e or B250e owner who has a traffic dense daily commute.

Acceleration is very much hot hatch credible, with both these new Mercedes hybrids capable of 0-100 kph in only 6.6 seconds, whilst top speed is claimed at 235 kph. Best of all, is the ridiculously low average fuel consumption of only 1.4l/100 km.

Recharging the A250e or B250e isn’t an issue either. Using a 7.4 kWh wall unit charger will repower the battery to full capacity, from a 10% power level, in 1hr and 45 min. If you have access to a rapid charger unit, only 25 minutes of plug-in charging will repower 70% of the battery capacity.

Hot hatch performance with absolutely unbeatable fuel economy. Mercedes-Benz appears to have struck upon an inspired hybridisation product with its new A250e and B250e models. The only debit would be mass, with these cars being 150 kg heavier –  but with the performance and economy benefits they offer, does that even matter?

Here's our review on the A200 we drove in 2018.

BMW 7 Series (2019) Specs & Price

The facelifted BMW 7 Series has arrived in South Africa. Here are the specifications and pricing for the luxury executive sedan.

The updated BMW 7 Series is here. Available in either standard length or long-wheelbase, the big and bold 7 Series is 22 mm longer than the outgoing model and yes, it's dominated by the imposing grille at the front. There are also tweaks to the rear design, giving it a fresher and more modern look. 

Inside, there's a big focus on prestige and status, with attention to the acoustic treatment. There are also new cabin material options. BMW's new dashboard makes its debut here, as does the 'Hey BMW' digital assistant. In terms of powertrain, BMW has tweaked the engine lineup. Starting us off is the 740i, with a 3.0-litre turbocharged 6-cylinder with 250 kW and 450 Nm. It's capable of a 5.6 second claimed sprint to 100kph and consuming just 7.9 L/100. 

Next up is the 4.4-litre turbocharged V8 750Li, with 390 kW and 750 Nm. It's a brisk limousine, with BMW claiming 4.1 seconds to 100 kph and consumption of 10.2 L/100 km. The 6.6-litre twin-turbocharged V12 engine does duty in the M760Li and with 448 kW and 850 Nm, this is the fastest 7 Series you can get. It'll dispatch the 0-100 kph in a claimed 3.8 seconds. 

For those wanting diesel, a 3.0-litre 6-cylinder turbodiesel with 195 kW and 620 Nm is available. BMW claims 5.7 L/100 km for consumption, but it's still going to offer impressive performance (6.2 seconds to 100 kph) for such a large vehicle. Finally, there's a plugin hybrid option with the 745Le. The petrol/electric 3.0-litre 6-cylinder setup produces 290 kW and 600 Nm, while the economy claim of 2.8 L/100 km sounds incredible! 

The BMW 7 Series is available in either Standard, M Sport or Individual specification. All versions of the new BMW 7 Series feature adaptive suspension including electronically controlled dampers and two-axle air suspension with automatic self-levelling as standard.

BMW 7 Series Price in South Africa (August 2019)

BMW 740Li                                                     R1 638 400

BMW 750Li                                                     R2 156 700

BMW M760Li xDrive                                       R2 806 400

BMW M760 Li xDrive V12 Excellence            R2 806 400

BMW 730Ld                                                    R1 669 400

BMW 745Le xDrive                                         R1 755 300

Further Reading

Facelifted BMW 7 Series Announced – Coming to SA in Q2 2019

BMW 7-Series (2016) First Drive

BMW 740e (2017) Quick Review

BMW M760Li xDrive (2018) Quick Review

BMW 7 Series: A Tech Showcase [with Video]

Drag Race: BMW M4 Competition Pack vs BMW M760Li