Jeep has used the LA Motor Show to reveal its new mid-size Gladiator bakkie. See details below…
While we wait for the arrival of the new Wrangler in 2019, Jeep has revealed what it calls the most capable truck ever and it’s called the Gladiator.
"Unquestionably a truck and instantly recognizable as a Jeep, the all-new 2020 Gladiator is the ultimate vehicle for any outdoor adventure. There is tremendous demand for this unique vehicle from our loyal Jeep customers and pickup truck buyers everywhere. Born from a rich and proud heritage of tough, dependable Jeep trucks, Gladiator combines rugged utility, versatility and functionality resulting in the most capable mid-size truck ever,” said Tim Kuniskis, Head of Jeep Brand – North America.
The Gladiator is powered by a 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 with 213 kW and 353 Nm of torque and is mated with a 6-speed manual transmission as standard while an 8-speed automatic is offered as an option. A 3.0-litre EcoDiesel engine is expected to join the range in 2020.
Offroad ability is provided by two 4×4 systems (depending on the derivative) and these include a Command-Trac 4×4 system as well as a Rock Trac 4×4 system with heavy duty Dana 44 front and rear axles and Tru-Lok locking differentials. The Gladiator is shod with 17-inch off-road wheels with 33-inch tyres.
The wading depth for the Gladiator is 762 mm with a maximum towing capacity of 3 470 kg and payload capacity of 726 kg.
The Jeep Gladiator is not currently under consideration for South Africa.
Audi has brought a fierce-looking electric e-Tron GT 4-door coupe concept to the LA Motor Show with a production version expected late in 2020.
Developed in collaboration with Porsche, the striking Audi e-Tron GT Concept gives us a good idea of what to expect from the forthcoming production version in 2020 which follows on from the e-Tron SUV and the eTron Sportback.
Power output
With 434 kW, the Audi e-Tron GT Concept is cabable of sprinting from zero to 100 kph in 3.5 seconds.
The Audi e-Tron GT Concept develops a total system output of 434 kW with 2 electric motors driving both the front and rear axles (1 over each axle) making this an electric quattro as there is no mechanical link between the front and rear axle. Audi says that acceleration from zero to 100 kph will take place in 3.5 seconds with a top speed of 240 kph. A 90 kWh lithium-ion battery is said to ensure a range of 400 km. A energy recuperation system increases range by up to 30%.
In terms of charging, the e-Tron GT Concept can gain 80% charge in 20 minutes thanks to an 800-volt system using a cable. Audi Wireless Charging can also be used to charge the car overnight using a built-in charging pad on the floor where the car is parked.
Key styling features
An interior made from non-animal based materials and recycled material is a thoughtful touch to what looks like a sumptous cabin.
This is an electric 4-door coupe that sits low and wide with a long wheelbase of 2.9 metres. It stands 4.96 metres long, 1.96 metres wide and 1.38 metres high. The body is made from various materials such as a carbon fibre, aluminium and high-strength steel.
The front-end is dominated by a sharp and edgy design with a singleframe grille that’s complemented with aggressive-looking Matrix LED headlights. A light strip running the length of the rear is similar to that seen on the e-Tron SUV. The exterior is finished in a new colour called Kinetic Dust.
The interior design is simple and futuristic in look and feel with a clear focus placed on the driver with the large infotainment screen angled towards the driver for ease of use. As you would expect, the instrument cluster is all-digital.
Interior materials are non-animal based, so this a vegan interior, as Audi calls it, with synthetic leather used for the seats and trim. Recycled fabric material is used on the seat cushions, armrests and centre console. The deep-pile carpets are made from Econyl yarn which is a recycled fibre made from used fishing nets. The load bay offers 450 litres of space while additional 100 litres of space is found under the bonnet.
Audi aims to have 12 all-electric drive models on the market by 2025 with its electric vehicles expected to account for one third of its sales. First customer deliveries of the production version of the e-Tron GT can be expected in 2021.
Thanks to the introduction of the X7 first-class off-roader, the X5 no longer sits at the summit of the Bavarian brand's SUV fleet. But, make no mistake, the latest iteration of the model that started BMW's Sports Activity Vehicle onslaught is raring to muscle its way through a crowd of rivals. We headed to Garden Route to sample the newcomer…
What’s new?
As new technologies arrive (and existing ones improve), car manufacturers are hell-bent on squeezing the latest features into every new product they offer. Consumers have concurrently become ever more demanding, so irrespective of whether they're interested in a 1 Series or the new X5, they want the latest, greatest safety features or connectivity options. Being an all-new model, BMW has stacked the X5 with everything it has to offer. There are so many safety, autonomous and connectivity features, it would take too long to explain them all in a short, sharp launch review.
The new X5 features that huge kidney grille up front – not quite as large as the X7, but still large.
So let's focus on the important stuff. The new X5 is a little bit bigger in every direction, which sees increases in occupant and (a little more) loading space. It comes standard as a 5-seater and is optionally available as a 7-seater. At launch, there will only be a choice of 2 turbodiesel derivatives: the 30d and 50d. A petrol model may be considered for 2019, but the diesels tend to be the better sellers locally. If you want to add more intricate bumpers and design flair to your new X5, there will be M Performance parts available in 2019. Much of the takeaway from BMW’s marketing and press materials is that the G05-generation car is imbued with the newest tech innovation, still excellent on road, but now able to compete off-road.
Genuinely better off-road?
BMW SA threw a neat little trick into the launch of the new X5 by speccing some of its 30d demonstration units with optional off-road tyres. We used them (the cars and their tyres!) to traverse the Prince Albert pass that links Uniondale and Knysna. This gave us a chance to admire some of the legendary road-builder Thomas Bain’s best work as we made BMW's latest premium SUV climb and shuffle over the Outeniqua mountains.
Those optional all-terrain tyres don’t offer run-flat technology, therefore they have distinctly softer sidewalls that improve the X5's ride quality on rough surfaces. It also happened to be pouring with rain, so the extra grip from the tyres was even more noticeable. Still, if you plan on doing a fair amount of gravel driving, they are a must-have (and they don’t appear to produce extra noise when travelling at freeway speeds on tarred roads).
The G05 is better off-road than any X5 that has come before it.
The ride quality over the 60 km dirt-road route was a standout as even on 19-inch rubber the optional air suspension reacts quickly to craters in the road. If you want to further improve the off-road credentials (and look) of the X5, there is an Off-Road Package that adds different styling cues to make it look more rugged, and includes an extra button that toggles through Sand/Rock/Gravel/Snow settings, but that's only available on the 30d.
Still the on-road benchmark?
Don't be fooled by its off-road improvements, the new X5 is right up there in terms of its tarmac prowess, which is what we expected. The newcomer tips the scales at just over 2 tonnes, but changes direction with the body control of a much lighter car. Much of the impressive dynamism can be attributed to the individual suspension management, which checks body roll and helps the X5 corner as flatly as possible when changing direction.
It leads to a composed ride quality over bumps and instils a sense of confidence in the chassis when the newcomer scales a mountain pass (at least in an air suspension-equipped derivative, we didn't have a chance to sample an X5 equipped with the standard configuration during the event).
Engines up to scratch?
Both the 30d and 50d are powered by 3.0-litre 6-cylinder turbodiesel engines and the former offers up a competitive 195 kW and 620 Nm of torque. For most consumers, those outputs are as much as they’ll ever need, plus the 8-speed automatic transmission kept the motor within its max torque band (2 000 to 2 500 rpm) with ease. That auto 'box is metronomic in delivering timeous shifts and works almost imperceptibly in the background.
Only 2 turbodiesel engines are available at launch, a petrol derivative may be introduced in 2019.
The 50d produces the performance edge in the X5 range (for now) and whereas the 30d has 1 turbocharger, the 50d has 4. That’s right, it's a quad-turbo engine, where 2 turbochargers deal with low-rpm boost and the other 2 with higher-rpm boost. The result is 294 kW and 760 Nm of torque that will kick the 50d from 0 to 100 kph in 5.2 seconds. That grunt comes with very little guilt as the 50d is claimed to use between 6.8 and 7.2 L/100 km.
During our test drive (a 140-km stint in mixed conditions) we saw closer to 10 L/100 km, but we were "exploring" the 50d's capabilities with zeal…
The new tech?
There is a number of new tech features, but most of them focus on improving the passive safety systems and incorporating more communications functions. Most of them are optional, but BMW does allow you to pretty much spec the X5 to your liking, so you can pick and choose as you see fit.
For example, you can spec the driver assistance package that selects features such as lane keeping aid, blind-spot detection, cross traffic alert and evasion aid, all of which helps the X5 to avoid collisions with vehicles or pedestrians that suddenly venture into the path of the Bimmer. Semi-autonomous driving modes are available too, as is a follow mode, which allows the G05 to automatically follow cars in front of it in start/stop traffic.
The interior of the X5 is more modern and vibrant than much of BMW's current range.
Communications-wise, you now get a wireless charging pad (certainly the must-have gizmo in new luxury vehicles), 2 USB C ports, as well as Apple Carplay compatibility (if you spec that option). For the first time, BMW SA is offering over-the-air firmware updates, which means if there’s new software installations or infotainment updates, they can be downloaded through a wifi network rather than manually installed at a dealership.
Luxurious inside, right?
There is clear evidence within the new X5’s cabin that BMW is beginning to catch up with (if not pass) its rivals in terms of interior ambience and wow factor. The fully digitised instrument cluster is crisp and clear, which lifts the mood within the cabin. The new infotainment system combines both the iDrive rotary knob with a touchscreen and is very familiar to BMW owners who will have no problem dancing through the menus quickly.
Our test units were also equipped with the optional glass-look transmission levers. These have a 3D effect, with the X logo embedded in them. It’s down to personal choice whether you like this particular adornment or not, but it does add some serious bling to the cabin.
The optional glass gear lever. Below and to the left are the off-road mode toggle switches.
Passenger space is plentiful, but I can’t yet speak for 3rd-row occupants as our test cars were 5-seater derivatives. Luggage space is claimed at 645 litres, which can expand to 1 860 litres with the rear seats folded flat. BMW has also stuck with the split-folding tailgate system, which I’ve always regarded as an excellent addition that doubles as a comfy place to sit during a picnic at, say, a Stellenbosch wine estate?
Summary
The new X5 appears to be a more capable and accomplished product than the model it replaces, which was job number 1. But where BMW has always focused on on-road ability, the new model offers notable off-road credentials too. It’s no Land Rover Discovery, but it handled 60 km of undulating, rocky and slippery dirt road with absolute ease. In those conditions, its predecessor would have shaken you until your vision went blurry.
In other areas, such as ride refinement, occupant/load space, infotainment tech and safety, the developments feel evolutionary. We’ve come to expect new models to be better overall than their forebears and the X5 does just that, but now with an added string (dirt-road prowess) in its bow.
BMW X5 (2018) prices in SA
xDrive30d R1 194 296
M50d R1 502 582
* Prices include a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan.
The new Mazda3 hatchback has been revealed at the Los Angeles Motor Show, see details below.
A new Mazda3 hatchback and its sedan counterpart has been shown at the Los Angeles Motor Show and draws inspiration from the striking Kai Concept which can only be a good thing because the new Mazda3 looks impressively stylish. The Mazda3 is an important model for the brand and since its launch in 2003, over 6 million units have found homes around the world.
The new Mazda3 is built on Mazda's Skyactiv-Vehicle Architecture and while the new Mazda3 is now longer than before and is said to offer an enhanced ride with less in-cabin noise. the big news is that it's powered by a new Skyactiv-X engine with a Spark-Controlled Compression Ignition, but Mazda has yet to reveal specific details for this engine. There will also be updated versions of the current 1.5, 2.0 and 2.5-litre engines (market dependent). The new engine is expected to be up to 20-30% more efficient and will offer more torque than Mazda's current petrol engine offering and the new Mazda3 will be the first model fitted with this new engine in 2019. A 1.8-litre diesel engine will also be offered in select markets along with a choice of either a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission.
A clean and uncluttered design is a major highlight inside the new Mazda3.
As for the interior, Mazda has adopted a "less is more" approach to the design with a particular emphasis on simplicity and focus on the task of driving. A new, wider 8.8-inch infotainment system is fitted and is controlled using the commander control in the centre console. A quality sound system and a head-up display are also fitted.
New safety features include the latest Driver Monitoring system, Front Cross Traffic Alert and the Cruising & Traffic Support system which will help the driver in congested traffic situations by assisting with acceleration, braking and steering.
The new Mazda3 is expected to reach South Africa in the second half of 2019. We will keep you updated as soon and local specification and pricing become available.
The facelifted Toyota Prius hybrid has made its debut at the LA Motor Show and will arrive in South Africa in the first quarter of 2019.
Even though the Prius has never really sold well in South Africa, potential buyers can now look forward to an updated version making landfall early in 2019. The latest Toyota Prius hybrid now benefits from Hybrid AWD-i, a new electric all-wheel drive system that makes use of a high-torque electric motor that provides additional drive through the rear axle when required. The system engages automatically at pull off and at speeds up to 11 kph or when the sensors detect low-grip conditions such as in snow or wet conditions at speeds between 11 and 70 kph.
The system does not compromise on boot space and only impacts minimally on fuel economy and emissions. The Prius Hybrid AWD-i is equipped with a new and compact nickel-metal hydride hybrid battery while the front-wheel drive version comes with a new lithium-ion hybrid battery.
Combined with the electric motor-generators and a 1.8-litre Atkinson cycle petrol engine, the Prius offers up 90 kW and 142 Nm of torque using a CVT to send power to the wheels.
New look to match
Updated styling gives the Prius a sharper, more refined appearance. A new taillight signature is a nice touch…
In terms of styling, the new Prius features a more dynamic appearance with new slim headlights with twin beam LEDs for better illumination. The rear lights also feature a new lighting signature and the Prius can be had in new colours including Emotional Red and Aqua Breeze. The Prius rides on new 17-inch alloy wheels while the 15-inch wheel caps now feature a dark grey finish.
The interior has been improved with new upholstery finishes as well as changes to the centre console arrangement and controls. A larger wireless charging tray has now been installed and the head-up display now includes turn-by-turn navigation directions. The touchscreen infotainment system has also been updated for faster, more intuitive response and incorporates pinch and flick functionality, much the same as a modern smartphone.
Toyota says that the new Prius can be expected in South Africa in the first quarter of 2019 but local specification, pricing and the availability of the Prius Hybrid AWD-i will be communicated closer to launch.
We Tackle a Motocross Track in the New Suzuki Jimny
Fans of really small 4x4s are over the moon, because Suzuki has finally released the latest generation of the Jimny in South Africa. In this video, Ciro de Siena channels his inner Ricky Carmichael on Zone7's motocross track.
Fans are so smitten with the new Jimny that the entire first shipment is already sold out, which is why we were pretty chuffed to get our hands on one. We were even more excited when Cape Town's Zone7 motocross facility agreed to let us hammer the new Jimny on their main circuit. The result is a slightly alternative review of the all-new Suzuki Jimny, but rest assured, in between Ciro De Siena having the time of his life, there is everything you need to know about the new Jimny contained herein. Give it a watch!
Road Trip: Mini Countryman Cooper D with Autohome [w/Video]
Cars.co.za journalist and photographer, Gero Lilleike, recently set off on a camping adventure on the Garden Route in a Mini Countryman Cooper D automatic equipped with a bespoke Autohome roof tent. How well does the Autohome roof tent work in this application? Read Gero’s report and watch his travel video to find out…
I love the outdoors and camping is one of my favourite pastimes, so when the opportunity presented itself to test the Autohome roof tent, which is specifically designed for the Mini Countryman, I simply couldn’t pass up the chance. With my wife by my side, we packed the Countryman Cooper D and set off for the Garden Route for a weekend of camping and adventure.
Practicality and performance
The Mini Countryman Cooper D combines punchy performance with good fuel economy, and it’s relatively spacious.
The Mini Countryman was to be our home and thankfully it’s the largest vehicle in Mini’s line-up, because we needed as much space as we could get to load up luggage, camping necessities and a surfboard. With the split rear seats folded down, there was more than enough room for our stuff.
While Cars.co.za had previously tested the Countryman Cooper D automatic (read that review here), I was keen to stretch its legs on the open road.
The 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine under the bonnet is the only diesel offering in the entire Mini range and it really is a great engine for a road trip. It’s a punchy unit with 110 kW and 330 Nm on tap and, in this case, makes use of a 6-speed automatic transmission to drive the front wheels. It’s not an all-out adventure vehicle, as it doesn’t have 4×4 capability, but it manages just fine on gravel roads of average condition.
The diesel-powered Countryman has a good dose of grunt on the highway and executes overtaking manoeuvres easily and effectively. More so, the steering has a positive feel and its ride quality is comfortable with a hint of firmness that makes it a pleasure to drive, especially on a long journey.
Lugging the Autohome on the long haul
With the Autohome fitted to a set of roof racks, I was curious to see how this added piece of kit would impact on the driving experience as well as fuel economy. At highway speed, the Autohome generates a fair amount of wind noise (audible through the sunroof), but that is to be expected.
More importantly, I expected fuel consumption would suffer as a result of increased drag, but that was not the case. In fact, the Cooper D performed very well and returned an indicated average of 6.9 L/100 km over the course of our 1 200-km road trip, which is more than acceptable for a compact SUV laden with luggage and adorned with a roof-mounted box. Mini claims a fuel consumption figure of 4.7 L/100km for this derivative.
Convenient camping
The Autohome makes camping easy and fuss-free.
As a surfer, I wanted to camp as close as possible to the ocean so that I could have easy access to the surf – the Buffalo Bay Caravan Park was perfect and also happens to be regarded as one of the best camping sites on the Garden Route. It was a no-brainer!
Conventional camping requires you to unpack all your camping gear, pitch your tent and set up camp, all of which takes time.
That procedure isn’t necessary with the Autohome roof tent because all you have to do is to find a suitable parking spot and simply unpack what you need. The Countryman serves as virtually all the storage space you need and, as a result, your campsite is cleaner and uncluttered and, because of the added convenience, you have more time to enjoy your surroundings and to do the things that you want to do, like surfing, in my case.
It also means it’s far easier to pack up when you want to leave. When you are done, you simply drive away without having to break down a campsite. It’s simple and convenient camping, just the way I like it…
How does the Mini Autohome work?
The Autohome roof tent is easy to pitch and accommodates 2 adults. Sadly, it’s not for sale in South Africa.
The Mini Autohome is easy to use and quick to pitch and close. Simply undo the 3 safety clips and push the front and rear roof section upwards. The 4 gas springs will pitch the tent automatically!
Inside the tent, you will find a height-adjustable aluminium ladder (with safety clamps), which you position next to the vehicle to access the tent. The tent can comfortably sleep 2 adults and is equipped with a high-density crushproof mattress, pillows and a touch-sensitive LED light with a 12V battery included. Storage inside the tent is made easy with an elastic roof net and 4 fold-away pockets for smaller items.
The tent material itself is made from a light, weather-proof and tear-proof material that expels moisture/condensation and there are 2 doors and 2 windows with dense mosquito netting, so the tent can be easily aired while you have a first-class view of your surroundings.
Breaking the tent down is just as easy. By pulling the provided strings down at either end, the tent will collapse and then you simply fasten the safety clips and off you go!
How much does the Mini Autohome cost?
If you want the Autohome roof tent, you will have to order direct from the supplier in Italy. It’s not cheap…
You might be disappointed to learn that Mini South Africa doesn’t offer the Autohome roof tent in South Africa; Mini doesn’t list the roof tent on its official accessories list. But if you really want one, you can order the Mini Autohome roof tent directly from Autohome in Italy, but beware, it costs €3 084 which translates to roughly R48 714, excluding shipping. The Mini Countryman Cooper D automatic is priced at R492 659 (November 2018).
If that is a push too far for you, local roof tent suppliers are also worth considering as they will be more affordable, but the products are not Mini approved and they are arguably not as slick as the Mini Autohome. The Autohome roof tent for the Mini Countryman weighs approximately 58 kg with a volume of 271 litres and is made from 100% fibreglass. The Autohome roof tent is offered in white or black depending on your taste.
Watch the Mini Autohome roof tent in action in the video below!
Mahindra has launched a limited edition Karoo Pik Up double cab in South Africa. Herewith specs and pricing…
Indian automotive giant, Mahindra, has launched a limited edition Karoo Pik Up double cab to market in South Africa which heralds the introduction of the new S6 specification level to the double cab Pik Up range.
"Over the past few years, the Pik Up has become one of Mahindra's best-selling models, thanks to its combination of rugged and reliable mechanical underpinnings and a generous specification level. With the introduction of the S6 Double Cab Pick Up, we have amplified the Pik Up's best qualities and made it available to more bakkie-buyers," says Rajesh Gupta, CEO of Mahindra South Africa.
Standard specification for the S6 double cab Pik Up includes front fog lamps, colour-coded bumpers and mirrors with side mouldings, remote central locking, a USB-enabled audio system, ABS with EBD, 2 airbags, a differential lock and power windows.
The Karoo Limited Edition adds a tow bar, tonneau cover, a nudge bar, roll bar, rain deflectors, wheel arch mouldings and Karoo decals. All the extras on the Karoo edition total over R28 000, at no cost to the customer.
The Mahindra Pik Up Karoo edition is powered by 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine with 103 kW and 320 Nm of torque and comes equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission. The Karoo edition is offered in 4×2 and 4×4 guise and features a ground clearance of 210 mm and has a load rating of 1 095 kg.
Mahindra Karoo Pik Up – Price in SA
Karoo Pik Up 4×2 – R299 999
Karoo Pik Up 4×4 – R329 999
The Mahindra Karoo Pik Up limited edition is sold with a 4-year/120 000 km warranty and 5-year/90 000 km service plan.
BMW's all-new 4th-generation X5 has launched in South Africa with a host of new technologies. Take a look at what you can expect from the new X5 below…
The X5, in BMW parlance, is a Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) that has served the brand well for almost 20 years, racking up in excess of 2.2 million sales worldwide. Now, BMW has launched the next chapter in the X5’s success story with the introduction of the 4th-generation X5.
Engine power
The initial X5 lineup in South Africa will comprise the X5 M50d and the X5 xDrive30d when it arrives in Q4 2018.
A spokesperson from BMW SA has confirmed that only the X5 xDrive30d and X5 M50d will be offered in South Africa.
The base diesel engine offering (in the X5 xDrive30d) is a 6-cylinder, 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine with 195 kW and 620 Nm which will be capable of 6.5 seconds in the sprint from zero to 100 kph with a top speed of 230 kph. Fuel consumption is claimed at 7.0 L/100km.
The mighty X5 M50d will be powered by a 6-cylinder, 3.0-litre quad-turbodiesel engine with no less than 294 kW and 760 Nm of torque on tap. The X5 M50d will achieve 0 to 100 kph in 5.2 seconds and reach a top speed of 250 kph. Fuel consumption is claimed at 7.2 L/100km for this derivative.
All X5 derivatives will be paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. A plug-in hybrid version and the high-performance X5 M can be expected at a later stage.
An Off-Road Package will be offered as anoption for the first time, allowing the X5 to tackle sand, rock and snow.
Power distribution is achieved in conjunction with BMW’s xDrive all-wheel drive system, which can split torque between the front and rear axles as needed, but further provide a rear-biased setup for a sportier driving experience.
Ride settings can be enhanced with the standard dynamic damper control system. Adaptive M Suspension Professional with active roll stabilisation and integral active steering will be offered as an option, as well as a 2-axle air suspension system for optimum ride comfort. An optional off-road package will also be offered on the X5 for the first time, which includes rugged underbody protection, 2-axle air suspension and an electronic rear differential lock to tackle surfaces such as sand, rock and snow.
Exterior design
Built at BMW’s Plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina, the new X5, which will be offered in either xLine or M Sport trim, has grown in all directions and its front-end look is dominated by a large kidney grille and standard-fit adaptive LED headlights (BMW Laserlights will be offered as an extra-cost option). At the rear, LED tail lights are standard too. The new X5 xDrive30d rides on standard 19-inch light alloy wheels as standard, but up to 20-,21- and 22-inch options will be available as an option. The X5 M50d rides on 21-inch M light alloy wheels as standard with 22-inch wheels to be offered as an option.
Interior design
The X5's interior has been enhanced with two 12.3-inch screens.
The major change inside the new X5 is the inclusion of two 12.3-inch screens known as BMW Live Cockpit Professional. The first serves as a digital instrument cluster, while the second screen houses the infotainment system and vehicle functions. Gesture control will also be standard. Rear passenger entertainment in the form of two 10.2-inch screens will be offered as an option.
Other notable standard features include cruise control with braking function, leather sports steering wheel with mounted controls and front and rear park distance control with a rearview camera. A third row of seats will also be offered as an option.
The front sports seats are electrically adjustable and heated for added comfort and climate control air conditioning is standard. A larger panorama glass roof is also fitted to the X5 M50d to enhance outward visibility, while also letting more light into the cabin.
An interesting feature on the new X5 is a 2-section tailgate, which can be operated automatically and hands-free. Load space is claimed at 645 litres, expanding to 1 860 litres with the 40:20:40 split rear seats folded down.
Furthermore, the X5 M50d will feature additional equipment, some of which include M Sports Brakes with blue painted callipers, BMW Individual roof rails, 4-way climate control, adaptive LED headlights with high beam assist, head-up display, an M Sports steering wheel, M aerodynamic kit and anthracite roof lining inside the cabin. As can be expected, a wide range of optional features can be specified to personalise your new X5.
Driver assist and safety features
The new X5 is equipped with an array of driver assistance systems to improve safety.
The new X5 is equipped with a variety of driver assist features to improve safety and these include the standard Active Driving Assistant with Blind Spot Detection, Lane Departure Warning, Rear Collision Warning, Frontal Collision Warning and Pedestrian Warning with City Collision Mitigation (which now also alerts the driver if cyclists are detected), Cross Traffic Alert (rear) and Speed Limit Information. Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go and Cross Traffic Alert will also be available.
An optional Driving Assistant Professional package will also be offered which will include Traffic Jam Assist, Lane Keeping Assistant and Automatic Lane Change Assistant. Furthermore, Parking Assistant Plus will take care of acceleration, braking and steering to manoeuvre into a parallel parking bay.
Renault's 1st-generation Duster arrived in South Africa fairly late in its model life, but nevertheless won over several local car buyers with its high-value offering. Now, its replacement – the all-new Duster – has gone on sale, replete with more modern, refined looks and a similar price positioning – surely that's a recipe for continued success?
We like: Value for money, spaciousness, frugality, long warranty, on-board tech
We don't like: Wobbly driver's seat (on test unit), turbo-lag coupled with a hesitant transmission
Some Renault dealers regularly offer specials: Have look here.
Where does it fit in?
Still recognisable as a Duster, but significantly more upmarket in overall appearance.
The ever-expanding (yet still-quite-new) compact family car/crossover segment has become quite fragmented. On the one hand, there are traditional offerings such as Ford's EcoSport and the fast-selling Hyundai Creta, which are good examples of vehicles that find favour with families by virtue of a combination of all-round ability and a respectable cache of luxury features. On the other hand, there are more niche offerings such as the Mazda CX-3 and Toyota C-HR, which major in style and desirability. And then you have a vehicle such as the Renault Duster, a spacious, seemingly rugged do-all that has notched up thousands of sales in South Africa. The key to its success is simple – value for money.
With the 1st-generation Duster, this value for money was coupled with fit and finish that was somewhat "rough around the edges", but, at first glance, its successor appears to have taken a significant step forward, yet doesn't cost much more. Does that mean the Duster can compete even more effectively in this cut-throat segment? Is it now a viable alternative to those previously-mentioned and pricier offerings from Hyundai, Ford etc.?
What's good about it?
Improved ergonomics and cabin finish
Now that looks neat, doesn't it? Optional leather upholstery could be a good investment.
While the new Duster rides on the same platform as the outgoing car, you wouldn't say so by looking at it. All the sheetmetal is new, and it has a more confident, broad-shouldered stance than before. The exterior detailing is quite exceptional for such an affordable car – the 17-inch alloy wheels are expensive-looking, there are LED daytime running lights and satin silver accents on the skid plates, side mirrors and roof rails. At the rear, the light clusters look like they've been pinched from a Jeep Renegade. Overall, it's a car that looks considerably more expensive than it is.
The biggest step forward, however, has happened inside. The previous car's touchscreen system was mounted too low on the fascia, and the rest of the controls appeared to be scattered randomly around the cabin. The new Duster's cabin looks almost Germanic by comparison… the touchscreen system, which will be Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible from next year (2019), is better positioned and the main controls lined up in a neat row underneath it. The ventilation system's rotary controls look like they've been taken out of nothing less than an Audi TT and even include digital displays. Finally, the steering wheel (now rake and reach adjustable) is a neat, leather-wrapped item that is nice to hold.
There are various storage solutions dotted around the cabin and overall the Duster is a great fit for family holiday use.
Most of the cabin surfaces, however, remains of the hard-plastic variety, and we wish Renault had added more rubberised linings for the cabin's various storage spaces. The standard upholstery is cloth, but our test unit featured optional leather, which smartens up the cabin ambience. Our test unit's driver's seat tilted slightly when the pilot shifted their weight in situ, which didn't leave an impression of good build quality. The problem might have been limited to this particular car, however, so just be wary of it if you take the new Duster for a test drive…
Practicality and spaciousness
The large luggage bay is shaped to accept big items, and the rear seats fold down too.
The new Duster rides on the same platform as its predecessor. It's not often that one hears of such a development, but according to Renault, the previous car's size and packaging was already spot-on (at least according to the feedback of owners, who only wanted greater refinement and a modernised fascia). Not having to engineer an all-new platform has undoubtedly also helped Renault to price this car so competitively.
So, in terms of spaciousness, the news is much the same as before, which means it is good… very good. The load bay is capacious (478 litres) and of course, the rear seats can be folded down (in a 1/3-2/3 configuration). The spare wheel is underneath the vehicle's body. Rear passengers get slightly more legroom than before, and there are various storage spaces dotted in the cabin, including a tray underneath the front passenger seat.
Frugality
A comprehensive trip computer is fitted and this variant also features keyless start.
This Duster derivative is powered by the same, long-serving 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine as before, which is coupled with a 6-speed dual-clutch (automatic) transmission. It comes as no surprise, then, that the performance and overall feel from the drivetrain are much the same as before.
We'll dig into the Duster's performance later, but, for now, we'd like to comment on the fuel consumption. Given the financial pressure on consumers, low running costs are vitally important and, in that regard, the Duster excels. Renault claims a consumption figure of 4.8 L/100 km, and we achieved a real-world average of only around 5.6 L/100 km, which is exceptional. This should allow you to travel nearly 900 km on a single (50-litre) tank.
On-board tech and features
Neat, ergonomically efficient and nicely detailed cabin is a vast improvement on its predecessor.
This flagship Prestige-badged variant is loaded with a comprehensive line-up of features. That touchscreen system may not yet offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (to reiterate, that's coming in 2019), but it already offers satellite navigation and doubles as the display for the multi-camera exterior view system (front, rear and sides). You also get rear park assist, blind spot monitoring and cruise control, among other niceties.
On the safety side, we would have liked to see more airbags (only driver and front passenger units are offered at present), but at least the Duster offers stability control. The latter feature remains notably absent from the fast-selling Hyundai Creta, for example.
What could be improved?
Engine/transmission lag
Neat 17-inch wheels and good attention to detailing on the exterior make the Duster look more expensive than it is.
As mentioned before, the 1.5-litre turbodiesel isn't the most modern unit around, but it's proven and efficient. Also, its fitment undoubtedly keeps overall vehicle cost down. The 6-speed dual-clutch transmission has been further refined and, as long as you're not in a hurry, it generally provides well-timed shifts. But for some buyers, and especially within the context of improvements to other parts of the Duster, the engine/transmission combo's laggy behaviour is frustrating. There's some turbo lag near the bottom of the rev range, and not much power at higher engine speeds, so the torque band is quite narrow. Couple this with a transmission that can be too hesitant and the Duster can feel flat-footed in certain instances.
So, the Duster is not a vehicle to be hurried and is better suited to relaxed, efficient holiday touring than cut-and-thrust city driving. Mirroring the drivetrain's "relaxed" nature is the suspension set-up. There's plenty of roll in the corners, but the ride quality is supple on various surfaces (including gravel). It's a car for real-world family use, not mountain pass blitzes! Also keep in mind that a very usable 210 mm of ground clearance is on offer.
Pricing & Warranty
The flagship Duster 1.5 dCi Prestige EDC, as tested here, sells for R334 900. It comes backed with a 5-year/150 000 km warranty and a 3-year/45 000 km service plan. It requires servicing every 15 000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Verdict
Rear lights look similar to those on Jeep Renegade. The Duster's overall look is far more modern and coherent.
Finding real, directly comparable rivals to the Renault Duster, particularly in diesel automatic form, is exceptionally tough – offerings from Hyundai and Ford are significantly more expensive. At roughly the Duster's price there is the Mahindra XUV500 for one, but it's a larger (7-seat) vehicle that might simply be too big for some buyers, and it's not as frugal. With diesel seemingly on the decline, it would appear that the only alternative for buyers would be to consider a petrol automatic offering, such Hyundai's popular Creta 1.6, which sells for around R30k more than this Duster. Then again, you could also consider the even cheaper (R317k) Duster Dynamique automatic…
Be that as it may, from whatever angle you look at the Duster, its value-for-money offering appears unrivalled. Coupled with that, the newcomer offers a significantly improved cabin that no longer looks low-rent, and from the outside, the Renault appears more expensive than it really is.
Practical, spacious and impressively fuel-efficient, the Duster appears to tick all the boxes for the modern family shopping on a tight budget and, if you looking for a sweetener, the long warranty adds considerable peace of mind.
