Bentley Expands Continental Offering With V8 Engines
Smaller engined Continental could actually be the better drive.
Bentley is expanding its portfolio of V8-engined models with the announcement of new additions to its Continental range.
The third-generation of Bentley’s large four-seater Continental GT coupe and convertible will become available with twin-turbocharged V8 power by the end of the year.
Differentiating these new V8 derivatives from their W12-powered sibling will be factory fitted 20-inch wheels, although customers will have the option of inching-up to ‘22s if they wish. Standard exterior features include quad-exhaust ends and LED matrix headlights.
Inside the Bentley Continental V8s will roll off the assembly line in Crewe with a 10-speaker sound system and a cabin built with handstitched leather trim and a choice of the best wood veneers. Bentley’s smartly integrated centre-console 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen adds the necessary digital convenience.
Mechanically the Continental’s 4-litre V8 is rated at 405 kW and 770 Nm. That’s good enough for 0-100 kph in 4 seconds, with a top speed of 318 kph. For the purpose of comparison, Bentley’s 6-litre W12-powered Continental clocks 0-100 kph in 3.7 seconds and runs a true top speed of 333 kph. The ultimate performance discrepancy between the new V8 and Bentley’s more traditionally configured W12 Continental is rather small.
What possibly favours the decision to downsize to the V8 even more, is that is will place less weight over the front axle, which should make the smaller-engined Continental more agile and less prone to understeer.
Bentley’s engineers have reconfigured all the new third-generation Continentals, which are all-wheel drive, to add torque to the front wheels only in exceptional circumstances. That means that these large British grand touring cars are by default rear-wheel drive biased – and to best exploit that trait, the lighter and more agile V8-powered Continental might be a more rewarding drive.
South African deliveries of the new V8 Continentals are expected by early 2020, with the American market being the first to receive the V8s, in the third quarter of this year.
BMW has officially confirmed what many industry experts have been predicting since late last year. The Germany company will not develop a Gran Turismo version of its latest G20 3 Series.
An official statement from BMW details that market trends and industry turmoil have undone the business case for a second-generation of 3 Series Gran Turismo. BMW contends that enough demand for the 3 Series Gran Turismo remains, but it has more pressing engineering priorities now than building a pseudo-hatchback version of its new G20 3 Series.
The 3 Series Gran Turismo was a curious product planning misjudgement by BMW: not as attractive as the 3 Series touring estate car, not as capacious as an X3 SUV. Although the notchback configuration meant a very accommodating aperture for getting bulky luggage and things into the back of a 3 Series Gran Turismo, the benefit in terms of absolute load capacity was never big enough.
A standard previous-generation 3 Series sedan had 495-litre of boot space. The same platform in 3 Series Gran Turismo trim, only yielded 25-litre more luggage capacity, for a loading total of 520-litres.
The Gran Turismo never delivered a true cross-over type advantage within BMW’s 3 Series model portfolio. Traditional compact sedan customers who desired something with greater practicality or gravel travel ability, simply skipped over it, migrating to the logically more appropriate X3. The decision to not allow for Gran Turismo’s development on the new G20 3 Series platform, is therefore not much of a surprise.
Volkswagen continued its rich vein of form in the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards – powered by WesBank, of which the winners of the 2019 awards programme were announced during a gala event at Kyalami recently.
Nominated in a record 7 categories, Volkswagen South Africa walked away with no fewer than 4 awards on the night. The feat elevated the Wolfsburg-based marque into a comfortable lead in terms of the most category wins (10) in the history of the #CarsAwards (since 2015/16), ahead of Mercedes-Benz (6) and Suzuki (5).
In the Compact Hatch category, the new Polo Comfortline clinched the title, while the new Tiguan Allspace regained the trophy for the best Family Car. In the hotly contested Business Class and Leisure Double Cab categories, the Arteon sedan and Amarok bakkie beat out stiff competition to win both awards (the former was arguably the biggest upset on the night).
While Volkswagen is renowned for its popular vehicles, the brand also scores very well in the Cars.co.za Ownership Satisfaction Survey, which counts for 50% of the scores in each category. VW owners across South Africa tell us they are very pleased with the reliability of their vehicle and importantly the after-sales service from their Volkswagen dealer.
Volkswagen South Africa will undoubtedly be very keen to repeat its success at the 2020 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, and you can be part of it. Visit carsawards.co.za to fill in our survey and find out all the details about the winning cars from Volkswagen.
We drove the new Toyota RAV4 in Spain and it will arrive in South Africa in March 2019. Take a closer look at what you can expect in terms of specification and pricing.
We have returned from the international launch of the new Toyota RAV4 and our first impressions are mostly positive and family car buyers have much to look forward to in this latest iteration of the RAV4.
The new RAV4’s length has been shortened by 10mm and stands some 5mm lower than the outgoing generation. The width, however, has grown by 10mm while the wheelbase has been stretched by 30 mm, making it more spacious than before. Ground clearance has also increased by 15 mm. Load volume has increased to 492 litres (+12 L) while the RAV4 VX will offer 572 litres of load space, an improvement of 25 litres over the previous generation.
Let’s take a closer look at what the new RAV4 will offer in terms of specification when it arrives in South Africa.
Trim and Engines
A total of 2 naturally-aspirated engines and 3 transmission choices will be offered in SA.
The RAV4 will be offered with 2 higher output petrol engines and 3 trim grades including GX, GX-R Adventure and the range-topping VX trim.
The RAV4 GX is the entry-level trim while the GX-R Adventure adds all-wheel drive capability, rugged styling features and gets more features as standard (see below for specification). The VX trim grade is more luxury-focussed and adds a host of additional standard features. A total of 5 RAV4 derivatives will be offered in South Africa.
The range starts with the front-wheel drive RAV4 2.0 GX with a 6-speed manual transmission which is powered by a naturally aspirated 2.0-litre petrol engine with 127 kW and 207 Nm of torque. A RAV4 2.0 GX CVT derivative will also be offered.
The all-wheel drive RAV4 GX-R Adventure CVT employs the same engine as does the more luxurious RAV4 2.0 VX CVT.
The range-topping, all-wheel drive RAV4 2.5 VX will be powered by a naturally-aspirated 2.5-litre petrol engine with 152 kW and 250 Nm, but is exclusively equipped with an improved 8-speed automatic transmission.
Note that the RAV4 will no longer offer diesel engines and the new RAV4 Hybrid will not be offered in South Africa at this stage.
Standard features
Toyota RAV4 GX
The new RAV4's styling is edgier. Note the new squared-off wheel arches.
This derivative will ride on 17-inch alloy wheels with a full-size spare wheel. Parabola LED headlights with automatic levelling is fitted along with LED daytime running lights and LED tail lights.
Standard interior features in the GX include fabric upholstery, a urethane steering wheel with mounted controls and a soft vinyl gear lever. The steering is rake and reach adjustable and both front seats are manually adjustable with the driver’s seat being height adjustable. Other features include manual air conditioning, a rear-view camera, rear park distance control and a 7-inch infotainment system with Bluetooth capability. This derivative only has 1 USB port.
In terms of safety, the RAV4 GX is equipped with no fewer than 7 airbags, ABS with EBD, Brake Assist, Vehicle Stability Control, Hill Ascent Control and Trailer Sway Control.
Toyota RAV4 GX-R Adventure
The GX-R Adventure derivative has a more rugged look to suit its penchant for the outdoors.
This derivative builds on the specification of the GX and is recognised by its larger, protruding grille and larger skid plates and wheel arch cladding to suit its outdoor character. It rides on 18-inch alloy wheels.
The interior benefits from a leather steering wheel with mounted controls as well as a leather finish on the transmission lever. Leather seat upholstery is standard (in Black or Orchid Brown) while the driver’s seat is electronically adjustable with lumbar support. The seats have a heating function too. Smart entry and a push start is standard as is automatic air conditioning. A rearview camera and rear park distance control is also offered as standard along with the same 7-inch infotainment system found on the RAV4 GX.
Nice-to-have features include a wireless smartphone charger and 3 USB ports.
In addition to the safety features found on the RAV4 GX, the GX-R Adventure adds Downhill Assist Control.
Toyota RAV4 VX
The RAV4 VX derivatives will feature a host of additional safety features.
The range-topping RAV4 VX grade further adds chrome door handles and LED headlights with automatic high beam while riding on larger 19-inch alloy wheels.
Additional standard interior features include leather upholstery (in Black or Beige), an electric driver’s seat with memory function, lumbar support and heating function. A panoramic rearview camera as well as front and rear park distance control is fitted as well as a 7-inch infotainment system with 3 front USB ports and a wireless charger.
Extra safety features include a pre-crash system with Pedestrian Detection, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert, Cross Traffic Alert and a Blind Spot Monitor.
Exterior colours on offer for the new RAV4 include Graphite Grey Metallic, Cinnabar Red, Urban Khaki, Caribbean Blue and Attitude Black (customer order only).
Toyota RAV4 Price in South Africa (March 2019)
The RAV4 will see marginal pricing increases over the previous generation.
RAV4 2.0 GX 2WD R416 400
RAV4 2.0 GX CVT 2WD R427 600
RAV4 2.0 VX CVT 2WD R505 400
RAV4 2.0 GX-R-CVT AWD R508 100
RAV4 2.5 VX AT AWD R577 900
The RAV4 will be sold with a 3-year/100 000 km warranty and a 6-year/90 000 km service plan.
2018 was not a memorable year for German brand Audi. Not only were sales down, but the WLTP efficiency test delayed new products and the brand is still feeling the side effects of Dieselgate. A massive turnaround plan is on the cards for 2019 and this includes some big models.
2019 will be a transition year for the Audi brand and while the big focus will be electrification and the rollout of the new E-Tron SUV, fans of the internal combustion engine need not be disappointed. Audi's chairman of the board of management, Bram Schot, said the brand will be launching 20 new or updated models in 2019. Interestingly, the press statement gave a nice breakdown too.
The Audi A4 sedan and Q7 will be refreshed with what Audi calls an innovation injection and according to Audi, "both vehicles are being updated with numerous innovations and an extended equipment list." Performance fans have a lot to look forward to as Audi Sport confirmed a new RS6, RS7 and a new RS Q3 will be revealed this year. Of course, we can speculate what the others are and we'd guess we'll see an RS Q8 using a similar powertrain to that of the Lamborghini Urus.
There will also be 9 new S models in 2019. Other models we know are being officially launched on the global stage this year include the SQ2, SQ5 TDI, new A3 and the Q4. There's also a big focus on green plug-in hybrid models too.
The Audi RS6 is one model which will be revealed in 2019. Previous iterations like this one have proven popular
The AA of SA reports that April 2019 will be a bad month for motorists as not only will there be a monster fuel price increase, but the fuel levies kick in too. Here's what you need to know.
As it stands, motorists will be facing increases of 98 cents for petrol, 70 cents for diesel and 63 cents for paraffin. However, the pain doesn't stop there as the increases to the fuel levies will push the prices up even higher. The AA says that petrol will be actually increasing by R1.18 a litre, while diesel is subjected to a 90c per litre increase.
Fresh off substantial fuel price hikes in March, South Africans should brace themselves for further increases in April. This is according to the Automobile Association (AA), which was commenting on unaudited mid-month fuel price data released by the Central Energy Fund.
"We hope that data will provide more clarity as the month unfolds, but there is a further fly in the ointment, which is that increased fuel taxes become applicable in April," the AA notes. "This will add 20 cents a litre to the April increase – 15 cents for the fuel levy and 5 cents for the RAF levy. "When fuel taxes were proposed as a roads funding mechanism, the government resisted, claiming they were anti-poor. But the fuel levy has nonetheless risen by nearly 22% over the past three years. Given what is emerging at the Zondo Commission of Enquiry, motorists are justified in asking what this money is being spent on," the AA concludes.
Some purists suggest that the finest BMW performance engines are reserved for the Munich-based firm's M models. That's not to say, of course, that BMW hasn't produced some stellar non-M mills over the years. In fact, some of those "mainstream" engines have even gone on to feature (in modified forms) in M models!
Depending on who you ask, it can be argued that BMW owes its reputation for producing spirited engines as much to its M-model powerplants as to the motors in volume-selling models that pushed the powertrain performance and efficiency benchmarks in their respective segments of the market. The following motors (with 1 exception) have appeared in standard or (at the most) M-fettled derivatives, but they're not quite what you’d consider ordinary – oh no. They’re significantly more special than their stablemates thanks to a handsome sprinkling of incandescent BMW fairy dust…
BMW M20B25
If you know anything about BMW's fandom in South Africa, you'll comprehend why the 12-valve straight-6 motor is so deeply revered.
Whereas much of the left-hand-drive world once basked in the glow of the 2.3-litre (to 2.5-litre) 4-cylinder unit that powered the original (E30) M3, the unit at the heart of its contemporary BMW 325iS Evolution 2 (with the complicated M20B25 designation) is something dear to all South African BMW enthusiasts. The concept behind its introduction was to comply with homologation purposes of the Group N Racing Series in the late Eighties, as well as to fill the void of the E30 M3, which was never launched in South Africa. While it shares its basic fundamentals with the firm’s M20 straight-6 mill, the Evo 1 and 2 underwent myriad performance amendments to make it faster and more powerful than the regular 130kW 325iS.
The appeal of the BMW 325iS (of which an example is pictured on the left) is timeless. Prime examples demand LOFTY asking prices.
As a result, a bored-out 2.7-litre Alpina-tweaked unit produced 145 kW (in Evo 1 guise), while the Evo 2 took things up a level with a total system output of 155 kW. As far as sound effects go – well, a short-throw 5-speed manual transmission turned the driver of a 325iS into an orchestra conductor, allowing them to eke out and compose straight-6 musical scores good enough to pass for the soundtrack of a Star Wars flick.
Although BMW briefly dabbled with a turbopetrol engine in the '80s, the N54 was BMW's 1st notable forced-induction petrol motor since 1973.
For more than 3 decades, BMW resisted the urge to fit turbochargers to its production models (apart from a European version of the first 7 Series, called the 745i). Then, in the mid-'00s, the twin-turbocharged N54 engine (first packaged in the BMW 335i) arrived – and it revolutionised the automotive world with its meld of performance and economy. Plus, the 335i was known to strike fear into the hearts of M3 owners of the time –thanks to a wave of low-down force-fed torque. While both the 335i and M3 produced an equal 400 Nm of torque the 335i’s newtons came almost 1 000 rpm earlier in the rev range and gave it the ability to run neck-and-neck and sometimes even out-accelerate its muscle-car 4.0-litre V8 brother at altitude.
This was obviously a different story when it came to sea-level performance, but the 335i's reputation as "the poor man’s M3" was cemented in local folklore. The N54 was broadly employed across the BMW model line-up and available in many states of tune, the most significant of which was the 250 kW and 450 Nm 1M Coupe (produced as a glorious sendoff for the first – and only – 1 Series Coupe, which later became the 2 Series). The N54 was later replaced by the N55 3.0-litre mill, which ditched the twin-turbo setup in favour of a single twin-scroll unit for the sake of better reliability.
BMW N57
Initially produced to propel the all-wheel-drive M550d derivative of the previous-generation F10 5 Series (regrettably it was never released in South Africa), the audacious 3.0-litre straight-6 tri-turbodiesel made its local appearance beneath the pumped-up bonnets of the previous-generation X5 (and current X6). The most simple way to describe it is: a masterclass in diesel engine architecture. Only the Germans could come up with something as absurd as an M50d, but it all makes sense for some peculiar reason – especially after taking it for a spirited spin. Fire it up and the big oil-burner springs to life with a low-pitched guttural thrum replete with hissing turbochargers; enough decibels to stave off any would-be boy racers.
As far as turbodiesels go it’s a pretty revvy machine, capable of catapulting its 2-tonne-plus kerb weight from standstill to 100kph in a shade over 5 seconds, that’s some serious Newtons right there. Speaking of which, its peak power and torque outputs are rated at 280kW and 740Nm respectively, the latter of which is accessible from as low down as 2 000 rpm. Gut churning and smile-inducing in its mannerisms, the M50d might not profess to be worthy of the pseudo-M badge stuck to its fleshy derrière, but it sure does a good job of living up to the hype.
Yes, it’s true – the same little turbocharged 1.5-litre 3-pot that does duty in some of BMW’s lesser models (and a clutch of Mini products, don't forget) is in actual fact the same motor that powers the rear wheels of the futuristic i8 supercar, but there are differences… Not only has it been radically modified and massaged to produce maximum outputs to the tune of 170 kW and 320 Nm, there’s also a 96kW/250Nm electric motor that drives the front wheels, the result of which supplies a combined total system output of 275 kW and 570 Nm.
To fit one of BMW's high-capacity fire-breathing M motors in the low-slung i8 would defeat the entire purpose of the sportscar.
The beauty of the i8’s hybridised power system is its ability to not only push you back into your seat and blur your peripherals, but also creep around silently in electric mode without as much as emitting a single gram of carbon dioxide. The kicker? BMW claims a combined fuel consumption figure of just 2.1 L/km at just 49g/km of C02. Considering the carbon-fibre-rich i8's top speed of 250 kph and 0-100 kph sprint time of 4.4 seconds, the eco-minded sportscar's powertrain is undoubtedly one of the firm’s most impressive non-M engines.
And then, to conclude, the finest "non-M" BMW engine might also be the "most-M" motor the Bavarian brand has ever produced…
BMW S70/2
BMW never intended to produce a road car based on the M Division's 6.1-litre V12 (from the early '90s), so McLaren took over the baton.
The McLaren F1 may not be a genuine BMW, but it featured one of the Munich-based firm’s foremost powerplants: the S70/2. The F1 was the brainchild of South African-born Gordon Murray (who designed Brabham and McLaren F1 cars in the Eighties) and he insisted his creation should be powered by a naturally aspirated engine. He initially approached Honda (owing to the Woking-based firm's alliance with Honda in F1 at the time), but the Japanese manufacturer turned him down, which forced the engineering team to adopt something more reliable and with a proven track record.
It seems incredible that the legendary McLaren F1 could have been powered by an Isuzu engine. But it wasn't.
After mulling over the idea of going with Isuzu, Murray eventually opted for a bespoke 6.1-litre V12 built by BMW M Division’s engine guru Paul Rosche… Had BMW not shelved its plans to build an M version of the original 8 Series, the "M8" would probably have been powered by a version of that motor. Regardless, producing a mind-blowing (remember, for the time!) 467.5 kW and 651 Nm of torque, the muscular V12 propelled the McLaren F1 to a 0-96 kph sprint time of 3.2 seconds and 391-kph top speed, which surpassed Murray’s expectations. Furthermore, the level of exquisite detailing made the F1 a truly astonishing machine – twenty metres of heat-reflective gold foil lines both the engine and exhaust bay.
The Duster regains one of its USPs with the introduction of the 4×4 derivative of the thoroughly-revised range.
Renault launched the "new" Duster in October 2018 as a 4×2 model only. It promised a 4×4 version would be added early in 2019 and here it is: the newcomer adds some proper off-road cred to the compact family car segment.
Where does it fit in?
The Duster cuts a unique hole for itself as a capable 4×4 in a segment full of road-biased SUVs.
The Duster offers a rough and tumble, value for money set of wheels in quite a chic and design-conscious segment. Most of its competitors focus on design and modern infotainment systems or a practical car to ferry the kids around in with just enough ground clearance to skim a curb at the local flea market parking lot.
Renault’s Duster is more off-road biased with an adventurous spirit for the type of owner that wants to explore a bit further than a dirt parking lot.
It’s a capable off-roader with a few modern gizmos to keep traction on slippery terrain and decent approach (30 degrees) and departure (34 degrees) angles to tackle tougher terrain. The drive mode selector behind the gear lever allows you to select between 4×2, which operates the front wheels, Auto, that apportions torque to the rear wheels when required and then Locked, which keeps it in a 50/50 4-wheel-drive setup.
Fitted with hill-descent control and 210 mm of ground clearance, it can handle a bit of hard work.
A small, impromptu off-road course was laid out for us to test this system along with the Hill Descent Control. Small it may have been but it highlighted the traction control’s ability to apportion drive adequately and keep the Duster moving forward when things get steep or one or more wheels end up in the air.
The Duster 4×4 is only available as a manual, so your 4×4 game has to be quite sharp as you work the left hand and left leg to keep the small diesel on the boil.
The Duster has a softer ride than its competitors and as a result, rides much better on the rough stuff. There’s a fair amount of roll in the corners but after a solid 50 km of dirt tracking around Hartebeestpoort, the extra cushioning was most welcome. It feels stable through the steering too when hitting 60-100 kph on gravel, and would take some wild steering swinging to unsettle it.
Manual only?
The 4×4 is currently only available in manual and Dynamique trim.
Yes, the choice is an interesting one considering that Renault has sold more new Dusters with an auto (EDC) ‘box than a manual so far. The choice was made as it gave Renault a keener price to enter the market at and it is able to use the higher powered diesel engine. The 1.5-litre turbodiesel is good for 80 kW and 260 Nm of torque, 14 kW and 50 Nm more than the 2WD manual model.
I would say there’s just enough power and torque there to suffice. It’s not going to get you through deep Kalahari sand with its 80 kW but it's light and the short wheelbase bobs and rocks its way over tricky obstacles.
Any other changes?
Renault SA has sneakily introduced Apple Carplay and Android Auto to its infotainment system. Apparently, it was introduced in the Duster during December 2018 and is standard fitment across the range now. Unfortunately, cars sold before December aren’t afforded the kit and can’t even have it retro-fitted at a dealership.
What are its rivals?
The Duster feels ready for an adventure.
There aren’t many pukka off-roaders at this price point; the Suzuki Jimny offers more in terms of off-roading kit (it has a low-range transfer case), but then again it could probably fit in the Duster's load bay. The rest of the competition is limited to 4×2 models with raised ride heights. At R330k, you could look at the Ford Ecosport or push up to something like a Mazda CX-3, Hyundai Creta/Kona or a Nissan Qashqai.
Summary
The 4×4 model adds that much-needed versatility to the Duster range. The car makes more sense as an off-roader than a 2-wheel-drive city slicker. Its suspension is more in tune with a gravel road too. While the manual only option baffles a little, it probably won’t deter the intrepid explorer looking for adequate off-roading credentials in a package that’s not too nice that you fear to get it scratched or muddy at every opportunity.
Pricing
As mentioned earlier, Renault has tried to make the 4×4 option an enticing offer so it hits the market at R327 900. It sold with a 3yr/45 000 km service plan and a 5-yr/150 000 km warranty.
Subaru-powered Speedhunters Beetle – Launch Control Ep3
In Episode 3 of our Launch Control series, Adonis Verkuil, a big Volkswagen Beetle fan, shows us his Subaru-powered Super Beetle.
VW enthusiast Adonis has spent a decade building his dream drag-racing Super Beetle. Having already owned a 1965 Beetle previously, he decided he wanted to build a faster version, after being inspired by an image of a Speed Hunters-themed Volksie. Following the advice from various builders, he decided to buy a Super Beetle to modify as it had a better chassis to handle the extra power. Adonis then opted to transplant a turbocharged Subaru EJ20 engine into his beetle – not an easy operation at all, but we're sure you'll like the end result!
Video and Edit by Duwyne Aspeling
Here’s a mod list supplied by Adonis:
Subaru EJ20 2L turbocharged engine
VW Kombi gearbox
T3/T4 turbo
External wastegate
Custom fuel rails
1000cc injectors
Ported intake and exhaust
BMW disc brakes up front
VW disc brakes at the rear
Drift handbrake
Racing seats
Full roll cage
15 inch BBS mag wheels 9j in front and 10J at the rear
Renault SA Confirms Duster Oroch and Alaskan for 2021
Renault South Africa has finally won the right to enter the bakkie market in SA, but only in 2021.
It’s been on the cards but unconfirmed for a few years that Renault South Africa is trying to get its hands on the 1-tonne Duster Oroch double cab and Alaskan leisure bakkie. The issue has always been that Renault global could not make a case for so few right-hand drive models. Renault does not have much of a presence in Australia and the UK (the only other RHD markets) is not all that big on bakkies, so it was deemed not viable by the heads at the French manufacturer.
Renault South Africa main marketing man Jesus Boveda has been chomping at the bit to enter the LCV market which counts for a fair chunk of sales in the local market. It seems after dragging certain Renault global bigwigs out to SA, he was able to convince them to begin selling both the Duster Oroch and Renault Alaskan in 2021 locally.
Both models will arrive as facelifted versions of what’s currently on sale globally. A quick recap of the models:
The Duster Oroch would be the only double cab bakkie in its segment
Duster Oroch is a 1-tonne double cab powered by two naturally-aspirated engines and a 1.5-litre turbodiesel. Currently, there is no double cab available in this segment of the market where the only real challenger is the Nissan NP200 and that’s a single cab workhorse. It will certainly be interesting to see how South Africans take to the idea of a baby double cab.
The Alaskan is based on Nissan's Navara chassis.
The Alaskan, on the other hand, is a leisure double cab on the same platform as the Nissan Navara and Mercedes-Benz X-Class. It certainly has presence with its design and makes use of a 4-cylinder 2.3-litre twin-turbodiesel engine, which offers peak outputs of 140 kW and 450 Nm of torque. A 120 kW version with a single turbocharger is also available overseas. Renault would probably want to offer the Alaskan locally as a value for money product, so it could undercut the pricing of even the locally-built Navara.
We’ll update this story as more details become available.
