Honda has launched the new Amaze compact sedan in South Africa. Take a look at specification and pricing for the new model.
Honda welcomes its new budget-conscious Amaze sedan to the local market this week. A total of 3 Amaze derivatives will be on offer in Trend and Comfort trim guises.
Honda believes that the new Amaze, which was developed from the ground up, will appeal to start-up families, young singles and mature motorists. There is no doubt that the Amaze will also appeal to the rental industry and ride services such as Uber.
Engine Choice
A 4-cylinder, 1.2-litre petrol engine does service in the new Amaze and it offers 66 kW and 110 Nm of torque. A 5-speed manual transmission is standard on the entry-level Amaze Trend and Amaze Comfort derivatives, the latter of which is also offered with a new-generation Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
The Honda Amaze weighs only 900 kg, which contributes to reduced fuel economy with Honda claiming a 5.6 L/100 km for the manual and 5.7 L/100 km for the CVT.
Interior and Features
The Amaze's interior is equipped with the basics and is offered in either Trend or Comfort trim.
The Amaze’s dashboard features gloss piano black detail,s while the instrument cluster is equipped with analogue speed and tachometer dials as well as a trip computer.
The seats are upholstered in cloth, but synthetic leather seat covers can be ordered as a no-cost option. A basic 4-speaker sound system is fitted with FM/AM radio functionality, as well as MP3 playback and Bluetooth functionality. USB and auxiliary audio sockets are standard, plus the audio system's functions can be controlled via the multifunction steering wheel. There are storage spaces in all 4 door mouldings and cup holders are located in the centre console and in the rear armrest to service rear passengers. Boot space is claimed at 420-litres, which is 20-litre larger than the previous Brio Amaze model.
In terms of safety, 2 front airbags are standard, as is ABS with EBD. Front and rear inertia-reel seatbelts are fitted and ISOfix child seat anchors are included.
The 1.2 Trend is fitted with 15-inch alloy wheels, a shark fin antenna and a high-mounted brake light, tilt-adjustable steering wheel, manual air conditioning and central locking system. The .2 Comfort adds features such as colour-coded mirrors and door handles, fog lights, auto air-con, electric side mirrors and automatic door locking.
The 1.2 Comfort CVT, meanwhile, comes equipped with gearshift paddles located behind the steering wheel.
All Amaze derivatives are offered with 4 new exterior colours including White Orchid Pearl, Lunar Silver Metallic, Modern Steel Metallic and Radiant Red Metallic.
We are driving the new Honda Amaze at launch this week so look out for our launch report coming your way soon.
Honda Amaze – Price in SA
Honda Amaze 1.2 Trend Manual – R179 900
Honda Amaze 1.2 Comfort Manual – R193 900
Honda Amaze 1.2 Comfort CVT – R208 900
The Honda Amaze is sold with a 5-year/200 000km warranty, 2-year/30 000km service plan and 3-year AA Roadside Assistance package.
The first trial units of the highly-anticipated Ranger Raptor have rolled off the production line at Ford’s Silverton Assembly Plant in Pretoria.
Ford South Africa is gearing up to start full-scale local production of the high-performance Ranger Raptor bakkie which is due for introduction into the South African market in the first half of 2019. The first batch of 10 trial units have already rolled off the production line at Ford’s Silverton Assembly Plant in Pretoria as part of the Tooling Trials (TT) build-up phase.
Ford has invested R3-billion in upgrading the plant in preparation for Ranger Raptor production next year. An additional R160-million investment will ensure that growing demand for the Ranger is met with production expansion expected in 2019.
The Ford Ranger Raptor will be produced in SA for local and international markets.
"This is a momentous occasion for everyone at Ford, as we witnessed our first Ranger Raptor TT unit coming off the line after more than 18 months of extensive upgrades and modifications to the Silverton assembly plant," said Ockert Berry, VP Operations, Ford Middle East and Africa.
"The Ranger Raptor is an exciting and very important model for us, as it pioneers an entirely new dimension for the pick-up or bakkie market and represents the first Ford Performance model to be produced in South Africa, destined for export to customers throughout Europe, the Middle East and Africa," Berry adds.
The Ranger Raptor will be powered by a new 2.0-litre bi-turbodiesel engine (built at Ford’s Struandale Engine Plant in Port Elizabeth) which will offer 157 kW and 500 Nm of torque and mated to a new 10-speed automatic transmission.
Nissan has tweaked its popular Qashqai compact SUV for 2019. Here are the changes.
The Nissan Qashqai is a popular model, both locally and internationally. There's a lot to like about it, ranging from its good looks to its value for money offering. In early 2018, Nissan South Africa updated its Qashqai with tweaked styling and technological advancements. However, we can expect an updated model making its way to South Africa in 2019 as Nissan has given the Qashqai some upgrades and it will be going on sale in Europe before the end of this year.
These changes are numerous and there's a new petrol engine, a new double-clutch gearbox and even more connectivity tech. Starting with the engine, the new motor is a turbocharged 1.3-litre petrol engine and if you know your manufacturer deals, you'll be aware that this motor was developed in collaboration with Daimler and is used in the all-new Mercedes-Benz A-Class. It appears that the 1.2-litre and 1.6-litre motors have been dropped. In terms of outputs, this new 1.3-litre turbo is offered in two states of tune: 102 kW and 117 kW, with economy rated around 5.3 L / 100 km.
You have the option of either a 6-speed manual gearbox mated to a front-wheel-drive setup, or a new 7-speed dual-clutch auto. Nissan claims that these new powertrains are more responsive and offer a quieter driving experience. The changes are not just mechanical as Nissan is offering its new infotainment system in the updated Qashqai. This setup boasts Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and can be updated over the air. It still retains the 7-inch touchscreen, but it comes with fewer buttons.
The interior of the updated Nissan Qashqai. The infotainment system now features Android Auto and Apple Carplay
British supercar maker McLaren has made a Track Pack available for its 720S, making even more visceral and agile on a race circuit.
The McLaren 720S is one of the fastest vehicles we've ever tested at Cars.co.za. Not only is it absolutely ballistic in a straight line, but its cornering abilities nearly defy the laws of physics. Somehow McLaren thought it a good idea to add a track pack for 720S, making it even more potent.
McLaren says that the track pack for 720S is developed alongside the new 720S GT3 race car and both cars have been extensively tested on track. The Track Pack for the 720S comprises a weight saving of 24 kg through the fitment of carbon fibre hood air intakes, rear fender air intakes and door mirror casings. There are new lightweight 10-spoke forged alloy wheels, a new carbon fibre active rear spoiler and a sports exhaust. Inside, there are new lightweight carbon fibre racing seats, carbon fibre gearshifters and a titanium bar has been fitted which supports proper 6-point seatbelts for the driver and passenger.
The McLaren 720S Track Pack also features a dedicated Track setting loaded into its drive modes and this includes a telemetry system comprising 3 cameras and a data logger. Realtime data such as lap times and splits can be displayed using the car's infotainment system. The engine has not changed and we're not surprised as the 720S is fast enough. For the record, the twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 delivers 530 kW and 770 Nm, and it can hit 100 kph in a claimed 2.7 seconds.
The new BMW X5 will arrive in South Africa next month and, when it arrives, it will face stiff competition in the premium SUV segment. Here’s a list of the X5’s most formidable rivals…
We recently drove the new BMW X5 on US soil and found the overall product to be quite impressive. The South African market will receive 2 derivatives in the form of the 195 kW/620 Nm X5 xDrive30d and the range-topping X5 M50d with 294 kW and 760 Nm of torque. Both will feature an 8-speed Steptronic transmission.
Here are the rivals that the new BMW X5 will have to beat when it lands in South Africa.
Volvo XC90
The Volvo XC90 represents a turning point for the Swedish brand and it has proven to be hugely successful, both locally and internationally. It’s a multiple Premium SUV category winner in the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards – powered by WesBank and it was nominated as a semi-finalist in the 2018/19 iteration of the #CarsAwards.
Considered to be the most advanced model in Volkswagen’s stable, the sophisticated new Touareg aims to succeed where its predecessors failed and snatch more sales away from its more glamorously-badged rivals. The Touareg V6 TDI Luxury R-Line is a finalist in the 2018/19 #CarsAwards.
The stylish and luxurious Range Rover Velar is the latest addition to the Jaguar Land Rover SUV stable. It rides on the same platform as the F-Pace and it fills the gap between the Evoque and the Range Rover Sport. It’s a head turner inside and out and has been nominated as a finalist in the 2018/19 #CarsAwards.
The latest (5th-generation) Land Rover Discovery builds upon a solid foundation of luxury, 7-seat practicality, on-road refinement and off-road ability with an injection of the latest in-car safety technology, infotainment technology, weight-saving measures and improved efficiency. This is the best Land-Rover-badged premium SUV that the Solihull-based firm has produced and the Discovery HSE TD6 was nominated as a semi-finalist in the 2018/19 #CarsAwards.
The 2nd-generation Q7 brings sophisticated styling and a stylish, minimalist interior to the premium SUV mix. Onboard technology is impressive and being some 300 kg lighter than the first generation, the new Q7 offers an admirable blend of ride quality and handling dynamics. The Q7 aims to please and it does so with ease.
Porsche’s latest Cayenne has touched down in South Africa and it will look to build on the success of its much-vaunted predecessors. With an attractive mix of performance, practicality and luxury, it’s a strong rival in this segment. The Porsche Cayenne S is a finalist in the 2018/19 #CarsAwards.
The GLE is the most popular Mercedes-Benz SUV worldwide and an all-new version is headed for South Africa early in 2019. It’s bigger and more spacious than before and interior technology has been beefed up with the latest MBUX infotainment system comprising a pair of 12.3-inch screens that sit side-by-side to give a widescreen effect. The new GLE is a primary rival to the new BMW X5 and we look forward to bringing these 2 premium SUVs together for a side-by-side comparison on local soil.
2018 has been a bumper year for new models coming to South Africa and with just over 2 months left in the year, there is still lots of new product to look forward to in the coming weeks. Here is a list of new cars due in SA for the remainder of 2018.
We have created an alphabetical (by brand) list of all the cars that can be expected in SA in the closing months of the year.
Having made its world debut in the UAE, the Stelvio Quadrifoglio, which set a set the lap record for a production SUV at the famed Nurburgring Nordschleife in September 2017, will arrive in the South African market in the 4th quarter of 2018. Powered by a 375 kW/600 Nm 2.9-litre twin-turbocharged V6 mated with an 8-speed transmission and Q4 all-wheel-drive system, the Quadrifoglio utilises its Alfa-Link adaptive suspension and (if specified) carbon-ceramic braking system to delivering stellar performance. It is expected that the initial consignment of Stelvio Quadrifoglios will comprise only 50 units, which will retail for approximately R1.8-million apiece. As was the case with its sedan sibling, you can expect Race and Launch versions.
Other models:
To bridge the notable performance gap between the (147 kW) 2.0-litre and Quadrifoglio derivatives in the Giulia range, a 206 kW Veloce version is on the cards, but unlike in most overseas markets, it will be offered in rear-wheel-drive configuration in South Africa and is expected to arrive in Q4 2018.
Audi's new flagship Q8 luxury SUV will take the fight to the Mercedes-Benz GLE and BMW X6/X7. Given how the market has reacted to an Audi SUV (every 3rd model sold globally is an SUV), a big and bold SUV is a good business choice. Expect an array of petrol, diesel and hybrid versions, and let's not rule out a monster SQ8, which will share componentry with the recently-launched Lamborghini Urus.
Aston Martin is due to introduce its hardcore DB11 AMR soon. It features an upgraded 5.2-litre twin-turbocharged engine with 470 kW and 700 Nm (the standard car produces 447 kW). Thanks to a reworked transmission, the new DB11 AMR is said to sprint from zero to 100kph in 3.7 sec (a 0.2-sec improvement), before going on to a top speed of 334 kph.
Powering the new Continental GT is an all-new version of the W12, which Bentley is famous for. It's still a 6.0-litre turbocharged motor, but this time a dual-clutch 8-speed transmission has been added. This big engine produces 467 kW and 900 Nm of torque, and when you dial up the Sport Launch Mode, the 0 to 100 kph sprint is achievable in a claimed 3.7 seconds thanks to a new all-wheel-drive system. If you want to try test its top-end speed, you'll find yourself comfortably sitting at over 330 kph! The new Bentley Continental GT is expected in SA in Q4 of 2018.
The BMW M5 Competition is due in South Africa soon and it develops 19 kW more power than the standard M5 and although the torque remains the same at 750 Nm, it's available in a wider band: 1 800 to 5 800 rpm. Dynamically it also benefits from a 7-mm ride height drop, 10% stiffer suspension and more negative camber on the front wheels. The result is a claimed 0-100 kph sprint time of 3.3 seconds and, with the M Drivers Package fitted, a heady 305-kph top speed.
The Hyundai Kona is one of the more striking crossovers since the arrival of the Renault Captur a few years ago. Designed by Peter Schreyer, the man responsible for the Kia Stinger and the now-iconic Mk1 Audi TT, the i30-based Kona made its public debut as long ago as June 2017. Hyundai Automotive SA has confirmed 2 derivatives for the local market. It will see the introduction of the brand's first 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder turbopetrol engine. The 2nd derivative is the tried-and-tested 2.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol, which will be exclusively available as an automatic. Both models are front-wheel-drive only.
The Jaguar F-Pace range will be headlined by the F-Pace SVR, which is powered by a 5.0-litre supercharged V8 with 405 kW and 680 Nm. The SVR is said to accelerate from 0 to 100 kph in a claimed 4.3 seconds, before reaching a top speed of 283 kph. The F-Pace SVR is expected to go on sale in SA in Q4 of 2018.
The facelifted Kia Sorento features a host of changes inside and out, including a new, quicker-shifting and more efficient 8-speed automatic transmission. Inside, Kia has installed a newly-designed steering wheel, instrument cluster, climate control console, plus a wireless smartphone charge pad, while the 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system (with navigation) offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
The crossover/SUV simply offers more "everything" than a traditional MPV. Now, hard on the heels of the new-look 3008, comes this striking 5008. The newcomer looks very stylish and while it shares a name with its predecessor, that's about all they have in common. Claimed to combine luxury, practicality and technology with some offroad ability, this new vehicle will be offered to the South African market in 3 three trim levels (Access, Active, and Allure) with a top-spec and sporty GT Line version, as well as an exclusive GT derivative.
If social media reaction is anything to go by, the all-new Jimny is bound to be a sales success on local soil. It will be powered by an all-new 1.5-litre petrol engine, known internally as the K15B, offering 75 kW and 130 Nm of torque and mated to either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. The Jimny will run on a ladder frame chassis with a 3-link rigid axle suspension setup and low range will be fitted as well a part-time 4-wheel-drive system. Estimated pricing will start from R265 000.
Regular Cars.co.za contributor (and seasoned motoring journalist) Calvin Fisher provides some insight into the latest Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology found inside the new BMW 3 Series, which was revealed at the Paris Motor Show last week…
While sitting at a table across from Dieter May, the Senior Vice President of Digital Services for BMW, I am trying to conceal my disappointment. This is the man charged with steering the Bavarian brand into the future, but after some prying, he's just admitted to me that he's not really into science fiction. As someone who's into space flicks and the like, it hurt to hear that Mr May is instead a self-titled "product guy" and, as such, is all about optimising a system's user experience. So no Minority Report style human interfacing for now, but that's not to say the BMW Personal Assistant in the new 3 Series doesn't represent several steps in the right direction.
It's a voice-activated artificial intelligence, much in the same vein of the one that only recently begun doing service in the products at a rival marque, MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience, as featured in the new A-Class). The reason for this is simple; much like navigation systems and automatic transmissions, outsourcing of components is key to staying competitive in the automotive marketplace. And while the systems in both (with its Microsoft brain) is developed out-of-house, BMW's own engineers turn theirs into what it is now, a wholly-BMW-programmed item that functions much in the way a Google Home or Amazon's Alexa does.
The BMW 3 Series features voice-activated artificial intelligence that's expected to develop rapidly in the near future.
So, no carefully recited commands such as, "set temperature to 26 degrees in the passenger seat". Simply say, "Hey, Mona Lisa, I'm cold," from the front passenger pew and it will handle the rest. And yes, on our demo of the new system, the 3 Series was named Mona Lisa, but you'll have the opportunity to give it a name of your choice: Maggie Thatcher, Angela Merkel, Victoria Beckham, Cher – whatever you fancy.
Lighting, navigation, media – you have control over it all by simply speaking to your car. BMW’s officially moved from the traditional voice command systems of the past into the world of free-form dialogue. It understands more, your intent specifically. But in the firm's own words, this is just the first version – the beginning.
And, if you believe that we've already begun down the road to autonomy (and I firmly believe we have), it's nice to have a partner, even if it's a digital one. We're already on the cusp of "Hey Sabine, let's cruise at 120 kph, thanks", so how long until it's followed up with "and take me home," too? Dieter feels we're close, and grows considerably more excited when he expands on his vision for digital services. “This is an opportunity for us also to really get to know our customers, to have access to them, their desires from our vehicles, their habits. The Personal Assistant is our newest and best touch-point with them.”
Planes, Cars, Phones and such
"Eleven months, that's how long it takes before there's a new one of these," Dieter says as he raises his iPhone. "For us (car manufacturers) it's closer to 4 years. And that's just a facelift." We spend some time discussing this, how rapidly technology moves in the realm of smartphones and how the motor industry is a dinosaur compared with the personal electronics market; a big ship that's slow to change course. Indeed, step into the cockpit of a Boeing 737 (as an example) and you'll be greeted with a cabin featuring instrumentation that looks 30 years old, which is, again, prehistoric by comparison. It makes you wonder if the airline's insistence on us keeping our phones off during flight isn't born out of spite more than anything else…
The future is now-now
The new BMW 3 Series is expected to arrive in SA in March 2019.
With the Smart Assistant, BMW can roll out updates quicker than ever before, claiming that “even directly after launch there’ll be the next level of functionality to roll out.” And that’s all very exciting, but we’re already quite fascinated by how organic the conversation has become. Again, you can hardly refer to it as a simple (do this, do that) response to commands or prompts anymore, as we run through examples such as – “navigate me to Place A, I’d like to fill up on my way there, and what’s the weather like when I get there? Also, I’m hungry.” The dash area is now cleaner than its ever been, and with the advent of a Smart Assistant, I can’t help but wonder how long it will be before our cabins will be completely bereft of any buttons.
For now, the voice system only caters for the front occupants (not really a problem in something like the new Z4, obviously), but you can expect more functionality when it arrives in something larger like an X5 – eventually rolling out to all 3 rows of seats and of course, greater control over even more facets of driving. Add to this the fact that, like your phone – software (firmware) updates and upgrades will be performed over the internet, no dealership visits required, essentially a remote service upgrade.
Easter Eggs
You know how the Germans are world-renowned for their sense of humour? Here’s just one example when we told our 3 Series demo that we were bored. Mona Lisa’s response? “I can’t imagine that. Maybe you haven’t had the chance yet to try Sport Mode?” before promptly activating said mode for me, as well as displaying the sports telemetry across the dashboard screen. Smart. And we’re told there are many more of these gems to be discovered…
The revised Ford EcoSport recently arrived in South Africa. The improvements over its predecessor are significant, but given the stiff competition in the compact family car segment, they needed to be. Does the Blue Oval deliver? We put the newcomer to the test.
We like: Cabin space, practicality, connectivity, lively performance, better spec
Back when it was launched in 2013, the EcoSport was quite the revelation. Ford took what we knew and loved about hatchbacks and applied them to a raised body baby SUV. As South Africa's small crossover craze gained momentum, the EcoSport soared… sometimes, as many as 1 000 units were sold a month. It's also critical to note that there were few competitors back then, making Ford one of the early trendsetters in this (now) ultra-competitive segment. Fast forward to 2018 and the market is now flooded with rivals from many manufacturers. It is key, then, that the new Ford EcoSport carry the baton and continue where its popular predecessor left off.
Even though it is not marketed as an offroad vehicle, the 206 mm of ground clearance proved useful on some rocky dirt roads.
What's good about it?
Performance/Efficiency balance
We're glad to see the spare wheel being kept outside the car. It adds to the visual appeal and frees up more luggage space.
Powering the Ford EcoSport is the tried-and-tested 1.0-litre turbocharged 3-cylinder engine. It's quite far along in its lifespan, yet continues to impress with its in-gear punchiness and outright power despite its small capacity. It's completely understandable why the motor has bagged so many category wins in the World Engine of the Year Awards. In this latest EcoSport, it's tuned to deliver 92 kW and 170 Nm, with power going to the front wheels via an all-new 6-speed automatic gearbox.
Although there's always a discrepancy between claimed and real-world fuel economy (as it appears on the trip computer), experience has shown derivatives powered by this diminutive EcoBoost engine really struggle to match Ford's claimed figures. However, things have improved and we put this down to the new transmission. Whereas Ford claims a 6.3 L/100 km on the combined cycle, we found ourselves averaging under 8 L/100 km, with the majority of our driving taking place on the open road.
Good standard specification
Android Auto means you have access to Google Maps and more
One of the key changes in the latest-gen EcoSport is the overhauled cabin. The infotainment setup has been replaced by an all-new Sync3 unit straight from the Ford parts bin and we simply adore its interface. Not only does it boast Android Auto/Apply CarPlay compatibility, but you can actually utilise your phone's features in the car, like Spotify music streaming and vitally, Google Maps, making the need for navigation redundant. There are 2 USB ports located in the centre console (with which you can charge devices, for example) and we appreciated the fact that these are illuminated, so it is easier to figure out where you should plug in our smartphone et al.
There are also nice convenience features such as rear parking sensors, front fog lights, tyre pressure sensors, a cooled glovebox and remote audio toggles on the steering wheel (but cruise control is reserved for the Titanium derivative). Shift paddles are also availed, but we preferred leaving the transmission to shift gears automatically. Meanwhile, safety is an avenue in which the Ford EcoSport has been improved considerably – it now features 7 airbags, as well as stability control.
Ride comfort & off-tar ability
These alloy wheels are a nice blend of ride quality and sportiness. Note the car is a touch firm on the more coarse gravel roads.
In this segment, ease of use is critical and we're happy to report that the revised Ford EcoSport is a pleasantly simple to drive and manoeuvre around town. The perky compact engine and automatic transmission work well together. In terms of ride quality, the newcomer rides on 16-inch alloy wheels in Trend specification, which offers a nice blend of comfort and agility. The suspension is reasonably damped for South African roads, but those who want to venture off the tarmac (from time to time) will find the suspension a touch firm when traversing really rutted roads. The ground clearance of 206 mm helps immensely though and makes up for the lack of all-wheel drive.
The steering follows the same pattern as the majority of players in the segment. It's not the most direct and there's not much feel, but it is light enough and offers enough weighting to instil confidence. As we expected, the EcoSport does tend to roll a little when you're pressing on, but this is par for the course for small crossovers; there is little amiss in terms of the Ford's general road holding. Overall, refinement is fair (given the price tag), although we did encounter some wind noise at highway speeds.
Practicality
When images of the all-new EcoSport were released, we were worried that the trademark spare wheel on the back had been dropped. Thankfully it wasn't (for the South African market) and this is great for 2 reasons. Firstly, the spare wheel on the EcoSport's tailgate gives it a nice butch appearance and secondly, the absence of a 'wheel in the luggage bay means there's more loading space for your detritus. Ford claims a capacity of 333 litres and, when you fold the seats down, 705 litres is available.
Ford EcoSport boasts a generous luggage bay, which can carry enough supplies for a long weekend away.
Where does it fall short?
Unfortunately, build quality was not one of the Indian-made previous EcoSport's strong points. However, this revised EcoSport is sourced from Ford's Romanian factory and only the entry-level derivative is built in India. While quality has improved both inside and out, there are still a few bits of shoddy workmanship. Our test unit had some loose rubber trim along the bottom of the doorframe and upon inspecting other new EcoSport demo units we noted similar issues. Look, at this price point, it's not a dealbreaker, but when you consider how well the Fiesta is assembled, it's puzzling to see (especially considering that the Fiesta and EcoSport share the same platform).
The 2nd generation of Ford's EcoSport has benefitted from over 2 300 new parts and the cabin (Titanium trim shown) feels more upmarket.
Pricing & Back-Up
The Ford EcoSport range starts from R267 500 (for the 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine in Ambiente spec). This Trend Auto retails for R306 900, while the asking price for the flagship Titanium Auto is R346 900. All versions come standard with a 4-year/120 000 km warranty, 4-year/60 000 km service plan, 3-year/unlimited distance roadside assistance and 5-year/unlimited km corrosion warranty.
Verdict
It may only be an updated version of a car that we know well, but this EcoSport really moves the game on for the segment. Not only has the number of onboard features and the array of safety equipment improved dramatically, but it retains all those little traits that made it such a popular model. The range is diverse too, with the option of manual and automatic, as well as petrol and diesel. We think going the automatic route will take away the stresses of driving in commuter traffic and given its more-than-fair specification, we regard the Trend a better value-for-money proposition than the top-spec Titanium, which is a finalist in its category of the 2018/19 #CarsAwards.
What's more, the EcoSport is more capable than you'd expect when it comes to travelling on gravel and there's just enough interior and loading space for it to qualify as a near-ideal small family car, although rear legroom at the back is admittedly not the greatest for full-sized adults. Ford claims that 2 300 parts have been changed on this new EcoSport and if our experience of the vehicle during its tenure in our test fleet is anything to go, this new version will continue to sell in respectable numbers.
Alternatives (click on the names for detailed spec info)
The Duster follows the example of EcoSport… It's been extensively revised, so much so that it feels like an all-new contender. There's a focus on more features without losing any of the traits that endeared itself to us. The Duster is a popular vehicle and we expect the new one to be just as good.
Hyundai facelifted its Creta compact family SUV recently. It offers petrol and turbodiesel options and is arguably better suited to families thanks to a bit more space.
The most stylish of the lot, this Toyota sacrifices space in favour of looks. As great and modern as it looks, its load bay lags behind the best of this squad.
Honda South Africa has tweaked its HR-V compact SUV in an effort to keep pace with the segment. We've yet to drive it, so we can't pass judgment on it yet.
The eagerly-anticipated new Toyota Corolla Hatch(back) will be launched in South Africa in early 2019. With its eye-catching styling and sophisticated packaging, this important C-segment contender now has a distinctly different personality to its sedan sibling. Here's what you can expect from the new range:
The new Corolla Hatch is built on Toyota’s New Global Architecture platform, which also underpins the Prius hybrid and C-HR compact family car. So, apart from having a lower centre of gravity, a new multi-link rear suspension, 60% stiffer body and improved weight balance, the new Corolla is 40 mm longer, 30 mm wider (therefore generally more spacious) and 25 mm lower than its predecessor.
The new Corolla Hatch's rear aspect is dominated by the distinctive LED tail light clusters. Note the sporty bumper and tailgate spoiler.
The new Corolla Hatch will arrive on the local market in early 2019, to follow closely on the heels of its recent introduction in Australia (whose derivatives are pictured here). But whereas the range Down Under includes 2.0-litre 4-cylinder petrol (with peak outputs of 125 kW and 200 Nm), as well as range-topping hybrid derivatives, we understand that the local line-up is likely to kick off with the 85 kW/185 Nm 1.2-litre turbopetrol engine from the C-HR, which will be followed by the 1.8-litre (Atkinson Cycle) petrol-electric version, replete with advances in engine, electric motor and battery technologies.
New CVT transmission
The standard 6-speed manual ‘box is said to feature rev-matching technology, while the automatic option will be a new Direct Shift continuously variable transmission that offers a 10-speed sequential shift mode, a mechanical launch gear and 3 driving modes: Eco, Normal and Sport.
The elaborate grille treatment, replete with a chrome surround strip, gives the hybrid version impressive road presence.
Although the sharp-ended, low-slung styling and hunkered stance of the Corolla Hatch need no introduction – the 5-door variant has generated much excitement since its Geneva Show reveal – some exterior features that are worth noting are LED headlights with tail lights (the former with and daytime running lights), front and rear fog lamps, heated electric exterior mirrors and 16-inch alloy wheels, possibly going up to 18-inch units in top-spec versions.
The future-forward interior of the Corolla Hatch is, however, its biggest revelation… It’s fitted with wider, more comfortable seats trimmed in either fabric, leather or a combination of the 2 (spec dependent), and its slick slimline fascia includes an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment display (yes, apparently the newcomer's native system will be offered on SA-spec vehicles) and instrument cluster with a full-colour 4.2-inch multi-info display. Whereas manual air-con, power windows and door bins with bottle holders (front and rear), an electronic parking brake, USB and auxiliary audio inputs, a 12V accessory socket and 60/40-split rear seats will be standard, higher-spec models could feature dual-zone aircon and smart entry and start.
The new Corolla Hatch's fascia design is unfussy and characterised by a large infotainment screen and instrument cluster. Note the standard electronic parking brake.
Some of the top-end features that have been offered on the new Corolla (to reiterate, they’re not yet confirmed for our market) are a wireless charging pad, a 7-inch multi-info display (with analogue and digital display options), LED ambient lighting as well as a head-up display!
Safety spec relative to local market
The various Toyota Safety Sense features on the Australia-spec newcomer, including the pre-collision safety system with pedestrian and cyclist detection, active cruise control, lane trace, -departure warning and -centring with steering assist and road-sign recognition technology, are not feasible for the SA market. But, we anticipate that local Corolla derivatives will feature a full complement of airbags (front, knee, side and curtain), a reverse-view camera, ISOfix child restraint anchors, ABS with brake assist, vehicle stability control and, hopefully, active cornering control.
When the new Corolla Hatch comes to market in early 2019, it will most likely be backed by a Toyota Service Plan for 6 services/90 000 km with the option to extend through Toyota Genuine Extended Service Plan. Further product details will be revealed at the vehicle’s official launch.
With the reveal of the new BMW 3 Series done and dusted, attention now turns to derivatives. While the mainstream models are of consumer interest, we found a tasty model that is sure to keep the petrolheads happy before the G20 generation BMW M3/M4 arrives. Meet the M340i.
There has never been a bridging model in the BMW 3 Series before, making this BMW M340i quite special. A bridging model fills the gap between the consumer-focused models and the high-performance flagship derivatives. Take the BMW 2 Series, for example. The M240i bridges the gap between the 220i and the M2, by offering 80% of the performance for less money and is not quite a full-blown M car with its M Performance badging.
As for this new BMW M340i, it is the first-ever M Performance model of the 3 Series. It's powered by a new 3.0-litre turbocharged straight-six petrol engine, which produces 275 kW and 500 Nm, although BMW says this is preliminary data and could be subject to change. The new BMW M340i has an eight-speed automatic transmission and the option of xDrive all-wheel drive. Our units will likely be rear-wheel drive. BMW claims a 0-100 kph time of 4.4 seconds with the xDrive model shaving 2 tenths off that, which is very quick and almost as fast as the outgoing F80 BMW M3. There's also an M sports differential, for those wanting ultimate handling.
Visually, you can spot the BMW M340i with its unique grille, bigger alloy wheels and big exhaust tips. Inside, there will be exclusive sports seats. The dashboard boasts an M specific display, there are M pedals as well as an M leather steering wheel. You can expect a few more details in the coming months and it's expected to go on sale globally in June 2019.
The new grille on the BMW M340i. It'll boast some impressive performance when it's launched in the middle of 2019
