Ford Fiesta ST (2018) International Launch Drive [w/Video]

Although the ST version of the 7th-generation Fiesta has 1 fewer cylinder than its celebrated predecessor, the 3-pot supermini hot hatch is also one of the most sophisticated cars that Ford's TeamRS division has ever produced. Yes, the new ST is easier to live with… and better to drive quickly! Our UK correspondent Matt Saunders savours the chance of having his cake and eating it…

Remember when hot hatchbacks felt like a break from the rigorous commercial norm of the car business? Oddballs and extroverts like the Alfa Romeo 147 GTA, the unique-to-South Africa Opel Kadett GSI 16V S aka Superboss and Renault Clio V6. They certainly don’t make ’em like that anymore.

The modern descendants of these cars might still be fun to drive but, at least as far as the industry is concerned, they’re now not only serious cars but also serious money-making machines. Being seen as key "brand-builders" by the companies producing them, hot superminis (small compact hatchbacks) are now twice as popular in Europe as they were just 5 years ago. As a result, both the specification of this new, 3rd-generation Ford Fiesta ST and the evident time and effort lavished on it by in-house tuning department Ford Performance echo that loud and clear.

The new ST has the fastest steering rack and stiffest torsion beam yet to be fitted to a performance Ford.

Coming along just a year after the European launch of the 7th-generation Fiesta hatchback on which it’s based (the standard range of derivatives recently went on sale in South Africa), the new ST has a list of hardware upgrades and performance features more lengthy and impressive, in many ways, than that of the car with which Ford's performance car division, known as TeamRS, built its modern reputation: the 2002 Focus RS, which was sadly never available in the South African market.

A Fiesta ST with an LSD (if you'd like one)

That it’s the first fast Fiesta to be available with a helical limited-slip differential for its driven front axle will be the headline-grabbing titbit plucked by many from its specification sheet (it’s optional, and supplied by Quaife). But this is actually a car with so much new and interesting technical content that I’ll do well to cover all of it.

The car’s departure point is a Fiesta chassis braced in key areas on the underside of the body-in-white, which is itself 14% more rigid than that of the standard car. The new ST also has the fastest steering rack and the stiffest torsion beam yet to be fitted to a performance Ford. It has particularly interesting suspension, too, which is well worth examining before we move on.

Tenneco has supplied frequency selective dampers that aren't adaptive in the traditional sense, but operate in a similar way.

Frequency selective dampers from Tenneco feature front and rear. They are double-valved in order to better handle both high – and low-frequency inputs than a conventional passive damper could but they’re not "adaptive" as such – just clever. Moreover, Ford fits asymmetrical, directionally wound springs onto the car’s rear axle, which are in effect bent into their fittings in order to apply a stabilising lateral force onto the rear wheels as well as performing the usual load-bearing job.

The springs address a key problem that hot hatchbacks with twist-beam rear suspension have always had: that, in order to effectively locate the rear axle and deliver top-level handling precision, you have to fit very rigid suspension mounting bushes which have a detrimental effect on the ride. These "torque vectoring" springs, says Ford, do as good a job as a Watt’s linkage setup in solving that problem and permit the fitment of much softer bushes.

The ST's interior racier details are subtle, including contrast stitching and almost prerequisite carbon fibre-look insets.

The Fiesta ST has a dedicated front hub design of the sort becoming common among cars of its ilk. It has allowed Ford to lower the car’s ride height without lowering its front suspension roll centre too much, and it keeps control of front kingpin angle and wheel offset as necessary in order to avoid too much torque steer and bump steer. The spring rate is slightly higher than that of the outgoing car but, as the engineers behind the car’s chassis development will tell you, the new damping and bushing in combination contribute to a more mature, rounded feel to the new car’s ride – and all without taking the all-important playful handling balance and cutting-edge response away from the handling.

Much-improved ride quality

Those engineers will also tell you that while they loved the last Fiesta ST (as did many of us), it certainly had an uncompromising ride that they simply couldn’t justify transferring directly onto this new version. But before you doubt them, these are the same engineers who, halfway through the development programme, sent the Pilot Sport 4S tyres originally intended for the car back to Michelin and insisted only grippier Pilot Super Sports would do.

Is the Fiesta ST the first hot hatch to feature cylinder-deactivation technology? Perhaps, but it is no less potent than its predecessor.

The ST’s new engine is one about which, I dare say, you may already have read: an all-aluminium, 3-cylinder, 1.5-litre turbocharged motor, which gives the car identical peak power and torque figures to those of the outgoing ST’s 1.6-litre 4-pot (147 kW and 290 Nm), but which can also deactivate its middle cylinder and run on 66% of its normal swept volume in conditions of light load. That’s a 3-cylinder engine capable of running on two: a car industry first. Upshot? A 20% improvement in the claimed fuel economy and CO2 emissions compared with the old ST. Perhaps of more interest, the new motor is also lighter than the one it replaces.

A distant flavour of the 5-pot Focus ST

This is also the first Fiesta ST to have selectable driving modes: Normal, Sport and Track. As you cycle through them, that engine gets fruitier and fruitier-sounding as its active exhaust and engine sound synthesising system combine to bring additional layers of noise. There’s a distant flavour of the original 5-cylinder Focus ST both about the way this engine warbles and its torquey mid-range feel.

Selectable driving modes add to the ST's sense of theatre, especially in terms of the ferocity of the exhaust note…

I’m not totally sold on the time it takes the crankshaft to slow down from high revs, I have to say (it’s a function of the counterbalance measures that 3-cylinder engines need in order to run smoothly at low rpm). Can’t help wondering, either, how much faster the engine would spin, and how much more power it would develop, if Ford dropped the flywheel completely. Still, perhaps that’s just me. All in all, there’s certainly plenty of urgency, plenty of character and, in spite of the torque, a likeable willingness to rev.

In lots of ways, the Fiesta feels like the car it replaces: it has meaty, fixed-ratio steering with which it’s easy to gel in spite of its pace, as well as supreme handling response and brilliantly flat body control – which we’ll get to. But the way it rides is something else.

Body-hugging, ST-branded Recaro sports front seats are a feast for the eye and are a boon in the twisties.

Having only driven the car at a test track I can’t tell with certainty how it might deal with a British B-road, but there’s quite a lot more suppleness and ride dexterity here than there used to be. Over what lumps and bumps I could find on our test drive, over which the outgoing ST’s dampers might have bristled and its body fidgeted, the new model’s suspension just sucks up the punishment and lets you get on with it. Perhaps more importantly on surfaces over which drivers of the old ST might have felt the need to apologise to their passenger for the selfishness of their buying decision, I suspect you won’t in the new one.

It passes the girlfriend/mother-in-law test

And that’s a bit of a revelation: a Fiesta ST that passes the girlfriend/mother-in-law test. Hurrah.

Equally brilliant is the car’s handling – although that much we expect of a Ford Performance product. The ST feels a shade more precise in its steering response than the last one did, turning in more crisply, gripping harder and staying slightly truer to your intended path than its forebear did as the lateral load builds into the rear tyres. It’s certainly capable of carrying more cornering speed than the old car and it has a bit more mid-corner stability, while traction on corner exit is subtly but notably stronger than it was thanks to the machinations of that Quaife limited-slip diff.

With its launch control engaged the Fiesta ST is claimed to hit 0 from 100 kph in just 6.7 seconds.

But fear not: the car is still a barrel of fun when you disengage the stability control and unload the rear axle. On a trailing throttle, the Fiesta can be teased into easily tamed oversteer more willingly than any other hot supermini. Its handling balance and adjustability remain exceptional, and in a way that speaks volumes about the philosophy of chassis engineers who think a front-drive performance car that isn’t sensitive to controllable lift-off oversteer just isn’t worth their time and who can’t understand why so many of their rivals seem to be so afraid of the phenomenon that they try to engineer it out entirely. Lucky for Ford, I guess, that they are.

Summary

Given how many new arrivals have lately come into the market niche that the last Fiesta ST so plainly bossed, and how short our initial test drive was, we’ll leave the decision as to whether this car is another Ford Performance class-leader and worldbeater for another day. It’s right up there, mind you, and as good as any ST-badged Ford I’ve yet driven. And it’s none the worse as a driver’s car for what’s pretty plainly an attempt to give it a slightly broader sales appeal.

When this year’s very best affordable performance cars are weighed and measured, the Fiesta ST will take some serious beating. But will South African aficionados get to see this highly-praised little car arrive in our market before the end of 2019? Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa says it doesn't have an ETA for the Fiesta ST yet, but we think if Ford can successfully homologate the car for local conditions and bring it to market at a competitive price, it will be sooner rather than later…

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BMW Safety Recall in SA: Are You Affected?

Although the recently announced safety recall campaign relating to some previous-generation BMW 1 Series, 3 Series, X1 and Z4 derivatives is mostly of consequence to consumers in the United Kingdom, just under 16 000 vehicles in South Africa are affected too.

In response to a query by Cars.co.za this week, BMW South Africa's manager of group product communications Edward Makwana said the issue, affecting units of the respective aforementioned models built between March 2007 and September 2011, "relates to the plug of the power distributor which may degrade over time due to frictional corrosion and vehicle vibration. In certain conditions, this can affect the electrical connection to the car and may result in a loss of power."

Worldwide, just under 400 000 BMWs are affected by this campaign, of which the overwhelming majority are in the UK (just under 312 000), but nonetheless, 15 933 vehicles in South Africa also need to be booked in at franchised BMW workshops so that technicians can "install a repair cable with an improved plug at the power distributor. The workshop stay is expected to last approximately 2 hours. BMW will cover the cost of the safety recall," Makwana added.

Makwana concluded that the owners of the affected vehicles would be informed (via postal letters, we understand) in the next few weeks.

It's best to check

However, considering that many vehicles produced between 2007 and 2011 will probably have changed owners a number of times since they were new and may no longer be serviced and/or repaired at franchised dealers, some owners of second-hand 1 Series, 3 Series, X1 and Z4 derivatives of that vintage may prove difficult for BMW to track down. To check if a vehicle needs to be booked in and worked on as part of the campaign, you can contact or visit your nearest franchised BMW dealer.

Alternatively, customers can contact BMW telephonically on 0800 600 555 (toll-free) Monday to Friday 7am to 7pm, or send an email with their vehicle's VIN details to [email protected]. They can also make an enquiry via an online chat on the BMW.co.za website – the latter option worked well for this author.

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We Drive 2018 Nissan Micra [updated]

Nissan will introduce its new 5th-generation Micra in the local market in June 2018. In contrast with the previous generation budget-oriented Micra Active, which remains on sale, the newcomer will be positioned at the upper end of the compact hatchback segment. Our UK correspondent drove the newcomer last year and here’s what he thought of it (now includes some local specification)…

What is it?

The latest Micra aims to break new ground by offering attractive styling and a wide range of tech that will appeal to the younger buyer.

In a trend-bucking move away from mass-production of affordable “world” cars (a practice that may now be left to its Datsun sub-brand), Nissan primarily designed and developed its new Micra specifically for the EU, the world’s largest small hatchback market. This version is produced in France as well as Thailand, the latter of which is the most likely source of the units that will be launched in the South African market in the near future.

Worldwide sales of the Micra have dwindled in recent years while its competitors have long since moved on in terms of design and technology. Nissan is hoping for a revitalisation of sales for a car whose ageing, blobby design appears only to attract an ever-diminishing number of bridge club members and retired librarians.

A bit harsh? Perhaps, but not entirely untrue. Something radical was needed if the Micra name was to continue.

The exterior

The new Micra is uninhibitedly styled to turn heads and targets an altogether younger demographic. It is lower, wider and longer than its predecessor and its chiselled exterior offers considerably more space inside. Now riding on an agile, re-engineered chassis, the newcomer can pack extensive safety kit and connective technology.

Lower, wider and longer, the new Micra is more spacious than it’s predecessor.

Its design incorporates many of the current Nissan design cues including the distinctive V-grille, from where sharp crease lines run through to the rear ends boomerang-shaped lights. The floating roof effect of the C-pillar creates an airy feeling. The rear door handles are hidden in the trailing edge of the C-pillars and an extended roofline culminates in a spoiler.

The interior

Inside, the new Micra is a huge step forward. The drab interior has been replaced by something more stylish and modern. But most crucial is the quality. This is a far better-finished car than before with more soft-touch plastics and modern fittings. The driving position is lower and the extended width and wheelbase translate into more cabin space and the new “gliding wing” shaped dashboard imparts the feeling of greater cabin width.

The interior represents a major improvement over its predecessor, featuring a new cabin design and enhanced perceived interior quality.

Room for those in the back is about standard for a hatchback in this class and the generous 300-litre luggage bay is deep, which does mean you have to lift heavy things out over a substantial lip. The Micra does, however, come with a proper spare wheel as standard. Oddly, the rear windows across the range only have manual winders (UK specification).

Technology

In many “firsts” in its segment, the new Micra sees the trickling down of on-board technology from larger more luxurious cars in the upper echelons of Nissan’s current international line-up. In Europe, new tech includes lane departure warning, emergency city braking with pedestrian recognition as well as Nissan’s around-view monitor, traffic sign recognition, high beam assist and blind spot warning. There’s a seven-inch full-colour central display providing access to the audio system, navigation, mobile phone, downloadable apps and Siri voice control via Apple CarPlay.

The new Micra is packed with useful features, but Nissan SA is yet to confirm local specification for the local market. Let’s hope it’s generous!

With due deference again shown to its younger target market, there’s an all-new 6-speaker ‘Bose Personal’ sound system, developed through close collaboration with Nissan. Although the complete local specification will only be revealed at the Micra’s media launch, Nissan South Africa has revealed that cars in our market will feature at least “a modern infotainment system that includes Apple CarPlay, 6 airbags, an anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD)”.

Engine and transmission

Meanwhile, Nissan SA has further revealed that Micra will be powered by 0.9-litre, 3-cylinder turbopetrol unit, which develops 66 kW/140 Nm and is mated with a 5-speed manual gearbox. In my experience, when driven with sense, the engine consumes only 4.4L/100 km and emits just 99g/km of CO2. But fortunately, it has the longest legs of any 3-pot I’ve driven in quite some time and is enormous fun to drive with dollops of enthusiasm.

The new Micra is a frugal daily runner, and depending on the engine, performance is decent too.

Ride and handling

The car now sits lower and wider than the outgoing model and thanks to some clever tech borrowed from the more expensive crossover range, the Micra is really good to drive.

Around town, the car feels nice and small enough to navigate easily through traffic. After a short drive, you’ll be impressed by the combination of abilities that the Micra exhibits. On a twisty road, the direct steering lets you place the car with confidence and the car offers plenty of grip.

Ride quality is good and the new Micra could quite possibly lead the segment locally provided that specification and engine choice is favourable.

Out on the motorway, the aerodynamic body of the Micra makes road and wind noise a faint hum which is really impressive in this class. The chassis and suspension setup works best here – it eliminates the high-frequency bumps from expansion joints in the road and you end up wondering why the car in front is fidgeting around while you barely feel a thing.

Prices

There aren’t prices available for local Micra derivatives yet, but in the UK the range starts from an appealing £11,995, which translates to around R200 000, which would be a decent starting point. It is known, however, that the Micra will have a 3-year/90 000 km service plan, 6-year/150 000 km warranty and 24-hour roadside assist.

Summary

Out with the boring, fuddy-duddy image and in with a dramatically more appealing design. Micra is so different it needs a new name?

The Micra is a huge leap forward over the previous models and that is partly thanks to how successful Nissan crossovers have been lately. That success has let some of their tech filter down to the Micra, making it a really accomplished rival to the established competition. It faces a greater challenge than some of its small car rivals, from the premium go-kart experience of the Mini, to the very capable Ford Fiesta and the panache of the Fiat 500, as it has to overcome the stigma of being a historically boring car. Nissan has redefined the character of the Micra in the 2017 model to make it a sportier and more exciting car than it’s ever been in the past, which is all evident when you get behind the wheel.

Overall, the new Micra is a great little car. If Nissan SA positions it smartly, it might disrupt the segment (in a good way), it certainly deserves every chance to succeed.

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Mercedes Benz X-Class (2018) Video Review

The Mercedes-Benz X-Class double-cab has just hit our showrooms. It's a headline-grabbing bakkie in anyone's book and the first vehicle of its kind from the luxury German manufacturer. What's more, it's South Africa's most expensive bakkie… by some margin.

In this video review, Ciro de Siena takes a detailed look at the newcomer and compares it with its obvious competitors: the Volkswagen Amarok and Nissan Navara (the Japanese bakkie upon which it is based).

Meanwhile, regular Cars.co.za contributor Calvin Fisher attended the local introduction of the X-Class in Cape Town, click here to read his Launch Review.

Also see: Mercedes-Benz X-Class Price in SA

Isuzu MU-X (2018) Specs & Price

Isuzu has introduced its first new model since General Motors' departure from the South African market: it's a 7-seater Adventure SUV named the MU-X, which is a rival to the Toyota Fortuner, Ford Everest and Mitsubishi Pajero Sport.

When General Motors SA announced it was shutting up shop, everyone was worried that the brands in its portfolio would disappear from the market. Fortunately, Isuzu, which was not affiliated with GM outside of South Africa anyway, has stuck around and is launching products independently. The MU-X is a well-specced bakkie-based SUV (it shares its underpinnings with the KB range) and Isuzu claims it offers superb all-round capability.

Engine and Transmission

The new Isuzu MU-X is powered by a 3.0-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine with peak outputs of 130 kW and 380 Nm, giving it enough oomph to tow trailers and caravans. Speaking of towing, the MU-X has a braked tow rating of 3 000 kg; it's available with a choice of either 4×2 rear-wheel drive or part-time 4×4 drive, the latter of which features Isuzu's Terrain Command 4×4 system with electronically selected 2-High, 4-High and 4-Low modes. Both derivatives have an automatic transmission.

In terms of off-road capability, the Isuzu MU-X has a ground clearance of 230 mm, a 24-degree approach angle and departure angle of 25.1-degrees. There's extensive underbody protection, including a sturdy steel guard (for the sump and transfer case) for added peace of mind.

Features

The Isuzu MU-X comes in 2 flavours; 3.0 4X2 AT6 and 3.0 4×4 AT6. At the front, there are LED daytime running lights, along with Bi-LED projector headlamps with auto-levelling functionality. The vehicle rides on 18-inch alloy wheels.

Inside, the newcomer offers seating for 7 occupants and the centre and rear rows of seats can be folded flat to free up utility space. It boasts a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment unit that includes an 8-speaker audio system with DVD/MP3-compatible CD player, Bluetooth connectivity and audio streaming, as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality. Satellite navigation is standard, plus front and rear USB slots are provided, in conjunction with an auxiliary iPod and HDMI ports.

A climate control system is standard, while rear seat occupants are catered for with their own cooling vents. A trip computer featuring fuel economy, range, odometer and trip meter readouts, plus maintenance data is included. The seats are wrapped in leather, while the driver's seat is 6-way electrically adjustable. The leather-trimmed steering wheel features controls for phone, audio and cruise control. A reverse-view camera is also fitted, while rear parking sensors are optionally available.

Isuzu claims its new MU-X is particularly practical as well: there is a multitude of storage compartments located strategically around the cabin, including dual glove boxes, an upper dash storage binnacle and cup holders for all three rows of seats.

Safety tech

The new Isuzu is equipped with all-disc ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Emergency Brake Assist (EBA). Electronic Stability Control (ESC) helps the driver maintain control of the vehicle, while the Traction Control System (TCS) prevents wheel spin and slippage. Hill Start Assist (HSA) provides an electronic brake control that automatically engages to prevent vehicle rolling back. There's also Hill Descent Control (HDC) which can be engaged in low-range mode.

Six airbags are included in the list of standard passive safety features: there are dual front, side and full-length curtain airbags, linked to front seat pre-tensioner seatbelts. The front bucket-type seats are designed to prevent whiplash in a rear impact, while adjustable headrests are provided for all seven seats.

Customisation options

Isuzu SA says its new MU-X can be personalised with an array of accessories specifically designed for the newcomer. There's the choice of an additional storage box is available for the mu-X located beneath the luggage area floor. This unit has three useful compartments to safely place items out of sight. A tow bar is also an option worth considering as is the stainless-steel nudge bar. A bonnet guard and scuff plate at the rear can also be specified.

Isuzu MU-X Price in South Africa

Accordingly, the Isuzu mu-X comes standard with Isuzu Complete Care, comprising a five-year/120 000km bumper-to-bumper warranty and Isuzu Roadside Assistance, a five-year/unlimited km anti-corrosion warranty and a five-year/90 000km Service Plan. Service intervals are every 15 000km/12 months. Extended cover can also be purchased for Roadside Assistance, Service Plans and Maintenance Plans

Isuzu MU-X 3.0 4X2 AT6 R 568 000
Isuzu MU-X 3.0 4×4 AT6 R 629 100

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Volkswagen announces ‘Most Powerful GTI’

Volkswagen has used the annual Worthersee Festival to showcase a new Golf GTI Concept, which will spawn a road-going production version. Let's meet the Golf GTI TCR Concept

Named after the European Touring Car Racing series, the Volkswagen Golf GTI TCR Concept boasts a top speed of 263 kph and the big news is that Volkswagen has confirmed that its almost ready for production. Essentially, what you're seeing here is the road-going version of the racing car, which makes for exciting reading.

Jürgen Stackmann, Sales, Board of Management of Volkswagen AG, said: “At the moment, the Golf GTI TCR Concept – an athlete derived from racing – is a study. But at the end of the year, we want to make this GTI vision come true.” Under the skin lurks a modified version of the EA888 turbocharged 2.0-litre motor, ramped up to produce 213 kW and 380 Nm. All that grunt goes to the front wheels via a standard 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The vehicle also features a limited-slip differential.

The new Volkswagen Golf GTI TCR features 18-inch “Belvedere” forged aluminum-alloy wheels as standard, with newly designed 19-inch alloys as an option. For performance stopping power, perforated brake discs together with special callipers and pads are fitted. For those wanting even more, drivers can opt for a package that removes the speed limiter, adds on the bigger wheels, a sports chassis setting and adaptive damping.

You'll be able to stop the most powerful GTI with its new front bumper and contoured front splitter. There are new side skirts, rear diffuser and exhaust tailpipes. TCR lettering is featured and you can opt for GTI-style honeycomb trim for the side of the new GTI TCR. Inside, there are new-look sports seats with special stitching on the steering wheel and gear shifter.

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Mercedes-Benz X-Class (2018) Launch Review

The arrival of Mercedes-Benz's eagerly awaited X-Class in the local market puts an official stamp on the advent of the luxury double-cab bakkie era in South Africa. But what of the new X-Class? Of course it’s similar to the Nissan Navara, but what’s bad about that?

There’s no point dancing around the one contentious issue of the new Mercedes-Benz double cab. So let’s unpack this right at the start so that we can better appreciate a really great bakkie. First, the chassis and componentry are shared with Nissan, as is the engine, the suspension and even some hard points on the bodywork have been carried over, most notably the greenhouse, especially apparent at the C-Pillar, where the door sill rises to meet it. Many vehicles share a lot more than this; proper sticker jobs, badge engineering. This is not that. This is Teutonic engineering and lots of it. Meet the Mercedes-Benz X-Class: a premium double-cab experience.

View the specs & price for the Mercedes-Benz X-Class in South Africa

Those rugged looks

Despite its Navara platform, there's no mistaking it for anything other than a Mercedes-Benz

The clearest point of distinction is in the aesthetic, in particular, the familiar GLE/GLC/GLA DNA in its front end. That’s bold grille dominated by two perforated lamellae rendered in chrome in our Power test unit, as is the bottom diffuser (or belt) and foglamp surrounds. Alternatively, you can have the more affordable Progressive model with body colour or dark plastics for similar surfaces. South Africa will not receive the bottom rung Pure models, which, to be fair, are workhorse-spec vehicles.

Towbars come standard at the rear, a bottom flanked by tall tail lamps and underscored by a chrome (also on Power models) rear bumper, and then – and this part is crucial, a Mercedes-Benz three-pointed star is placed dead centre beneath load bin’s handle. Out here at the back, traces of Navara are way less concealed than elsewhere, such as the cabin, where the Stuttgart firm has gone to great lengths to stamp its mark into everything from the Alcantara seats and 3-spoke steering wheel.

I miss a bit more stowage space in the space between the front seats… as it stands there’s enough for two cups and some loose change and that’s about it, unless you’re content with chucking the rest of your junk into the centre bin. It's hardly a fault, but it does take some getting used to if you’re the type of bakkie-enthusiast who packs a lot of small gear on your trips.

Safety technology and infotainment levels are at a level that you'd expect of a Mercedes-Benz, but that’s also par for the course considering how far double-cabs have come as lifestyle vehicles, or, in #CarsAwards parlance, Leisure Double-Cabs. The X-Class' meaty helm fills the palms well, the sign I hope of an engaging steering experience and since it will be the most direct connection between the front wheels and myself, we must talk about handling and performance next.

The cabin is upmarket, but lacking in stowage space

What's it like to drive?

Mercedes-Benz must be confident in the way its new bakkie handles as the firm constructed an interesting test route for the local media launch, replete with a compelling challenge. We covered a route of just under 200 km of asphalt and gravel sections, including the Montagu and the Outeniqua Passes, which the X-Class had little problem dispelling from the windscreen to the rearview mirror. It’s a tall "car" and handles as you’d expect, like a well-sorted bakkie and that’s just fine. But then we had the privilege of pointing our double-cab Benzes through the notorious Devil's Peak/Duiwel's Kop Pass, an old Voortrekker route that is both narrow and windy and here's the clincher, usually closed to the public. Also, it's a product of Thomas Bain, perhaps South Africa's most prolific builder of mountain passes.

Power is supplied from the same 2.3-litre turbodiesel engine in the Nissan Navara, but here it can be had in two outputs, 120 kW/403 Nm in the X220d or 140 kW and 450 Nm (X250d), all of which brings us neatly to that all-important sticker price.

Our test route covered many kilometres of gravel and tar, and we did some 4x4ing. The X-Class passes the first impression test.

So, how much will all this premium cost me?

Well, the entry level X220d 4×2 Progressive derivative can be had as "cheaply" as R624 103 – that’s a 2-wheel drive manual transmission bakkie – but even that can be optioned to the high heavens if you're not too careful. Pricing of the Progressive versions tops out at R696,785 before accessories. Opt for a Power X250d derivative, however and pay-to-play is a lofty R763 256, again without options, which, if added too liberally will take you frightfully close to a million-Rand bakkie. You can always have those accessories retrofitted, or spec them from a dealer. An automatic derivative will cost R791 315 and the V6-engined X350d is scheduled for later introduction.

It's nice, but it should be considering the price you're paying

View the specs & price for the Mercedes-Benz X-Class in South Africa

Summary

Mercedes-Benz claims “this is the first bakkie to convincingly combine the versatility of a double-cab with the luxury of a passenger car.” We don’t agree, the Volkswagen Amarok, of which the 3.0 V6 TDI 4Motion Highline Plus derivative is 2017/18 #CarsAwards Leisure Double-Cab Bakkie category champion, has long played this game and even the Navara has been a relatively premium affair, if only in comparison to its own NP300/Hardbody sibling.

The Benz offering is an expensive bakkie and much more than a "utility vehicle". It is refined, well-appointed, and for all intents and purposes a Mercedes-Benz. We have no doubt that it will sell well, and are watching closely to see if it overtakes the aforementioned more affordable Navara with which it shares its underpinnings. Should you buy it? Well yes, if you want a rugged Mercedes-Benz, a premium lifestyle-oriented one-tonner or both. And you're not afraid to spend whatever it takes to get one.

The good news is that there will be a brawny biturbo V6 diesel engine fitted to the X-Class. Watch this space.

Datsun Go Facelift Announced

Datsun has introduced a facelift of its Go and 7-seater Go+ budget cars. There are several changes, here's what the update entails.

Having just been launched in Indonesia, the 2018 Datsun Go and Go+ is expected to make landfall in South Africa before the end of the year. The changes are significant, with a smarter-looking exterior comprising new-look grille, tweaked headlights, sportier bumper with integrated daytime-running lights, side mirrors with built-in indicators and a revised rear bumper.

As far as cabin updates are concerned, the central console and air vents are new and a 6-inch touchscreen infotainment system has been added. Datsun claims that by optimising the backrest shape, seating comfort has been improved.

Datsun says it has rejigged the Go's suspension and fitted more insulation to improve on-road refinement. In terms of engine options, the Indonesian market has gained a CVT option mated to its 1.2-litre 3-cylinder naturally-aspirated petrol motor. The powerplant produces peak outputs of 50 kW and 104 Nm.

Strangely, there's no mention of any upgrades to the safety systems of the vehicle, which is odd considering its mechanically-similar cousin, the Renault Kwid, will see anti-lock brakes introduced in the near future. We'll update the story as more information comes to light.

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Volkswagen Arteon (2018) Launch Review

Volkswagen has launched a new flagship sedan in South Africa. The Arteon is a sharply-styled business class fastback and we drove the newcomer in Johannesburg this week. Should you consider the newcomer over its acclaimed rivals?

The new Volkswagen Arteon joins a throng of business class sedans that are vying for attention in a segment seemingly in decline as a result of the growing popularity of SUVs. The Arteon faces off against well-entrenched competition in the shapes of the BMW 3 Series/4 Series Gran Coupe, the latter of which is a category winner in the 2017/18 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards – powered by WesBank, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4/A5, Alfa Romeo Giulia and Jaguar XE.

With the (Passat) CC now confined to the history books, the Arteon slots in above the Passat and assumes the throne as Volkswagen's new flagship sedan. Is it worthy of your attention? Click here to view specification and pricing details for the new Volkswagen Arteon

Looking Good

The Arteon is long and wide, offering a spacious cabin and high levels of occupant comfort and loading practicality.

The Arteon is undeniably a stylish-looking sedan. Its fastback styling, coupled with a long bonnet that culminates in a distinctive front visage with a plethora of chrome grille slats and full LED lighting treatment, make the Volkswagen particularly attractive at first glance. Many offerings in this segment suffer from "cookie-cutter syndrome" with generally bland, unexciting, run-of-the-mill designs and the Arteon is fortunate to differentiate itself in that regard. There’s much more to like about this Arteon…

It’s built on Volkswagen’s MQB platform and thanks to a wheelbase measuring 2 841 mm, the Arteon's interior space, particularly for rear passengers is truly generous. You can literally stretch out back there! By virtue of the liftback design, similar to that of the Audi A7, BMW 3 Series GT/4 Series Gran Coupe and Porsche Panamera (to name but a few examples), the newcomer's load bay is long, reasonably deep and easily accessible; the quoted 563-litre capacity is significantly more than its rivals.

Familiar interior

The Arteon's interior will be familiar to Golf drivers and it's well-equipped with an Active Info Display and large infotainment system.

The Arteon’s interior design will be familiar to those who've ensconced themselves in a well-specced Golf 7.5, with a clean and functional layout that has proved popular with the automotive media and general consumers alike. As you would expect, interior build quality is excellent with a suitably premium cabin ambience.

Although the Arteon can be had in Elegance or R-Line trim, all of the vehicles at the launch were kitted out in R-Line trim, which adds a multifunction R-Line leather steering wheel and Nappa leather carbon-style seats with full electric functionality for both the driver and front passenger. There’s climate control air conditioning for front as well as rear passengers and comfort levels are high with the aforementioned legroom for rear passengers being a boon in this segment.

Perhaps the biggest highlight inside the Arteon R-Line is the standard digital Active Info Display and 9.2-inch Navigation Pro infotainment system, which lifts the interior's premium appeal to new heights. Other features include adaptive cruise control with front assist and city emergency braking, head-up display and a 360-degree camera.

How does it drive?

While the 206 kW petrol boasts the most power, we think the 130 kW diesel strikes a better balance between performance and efficiency.

There are 2 engines on offer in the Arteon including the range-topping 206 kW/350 Nm 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine and a 130 kW/350 Nm 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine.

Our launch drive started behind the 'wheel of the 206 kW 4Motion R-Line. The Arteon is a comprehensive grand tourer and it displayed excellent ride quality during the drive; buyers can be assured of high levels of driving comfort, even in the sportiest derivative. The engine is paired with a slick 7-speed dual-clutch transmission and shift paddles allow the driver to extract the most from the motor, while the car's on-road characteristics can be toggled via the Comfort, Eco and Sport driving modes.

The R-Line 4Motion responds positively to throttle inputs, but its comfort belies its speed, which is to say it’s speedier than it feels and this particular derivative is capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 kph in 5.6 sec, which is respectable. The steering feel is light and relatively communicative and this range-topping derivative also features all-wheel drive (hence the 4Motion), which enhances handling and stability. With a kerb weight of 1 601 kg, the Arteon feels more like a sportier Passat rather than an enlarged Golf GTI. Volkswagen claims a fuel consumption figure of 7.3 L/100 km, but we expect figures of closer to 10.0 L/100 km in real-world driving situations.

The Arteon delivers excellent ride comfort, which makes it perfect for long-distance touring.

If you want to maximise efficiency, then the 130 kW turbodiesel-engined derivatives make more sense. Although the diesel R-Line DSG lacks the outright punch of its petrol-powered sibling, its engine still manages to deliver acceptable performance. The powerplant is pleasingly quiet and refined in operation and power is delivered to the front wheels via a 6-speed DSG transmission. Fuel efficiency is claimed at 5.6 L/100km.

This derivative displayed admirable cruising ability out on the highway, but lacks immediacy lower in the rev range. However, we feel that this turbodiesel engine strikes a good balance between efficiency and performance and if you cannot be bothered with dicing hot hatches then this is probably the Arteon to go for.

Final thoughts

Finding favour with brand-conscious buyers will be the Arteon's biggest challenge on local soil.

We came away impressed with what the Arteon brings to the table. It’s a rather unique and stylish offering that looks better than most in this segment and it’s spacious and elegantly designed interior should grab many buyers’ attention. Although its performance can’t be described as earth-shattering, the Arteon has sufficient grunt to fulfil its duty as a comfortable, long-distance grand tourer. Furthermore, standard specification is good, which makes the package even more attractive.

The Arteon is a difficult car to fault and even though direct comparisons may reveal that it is better than its rivals in crucial areas, brand perception in this segment may very well prevent the Volkswagen from realising its sales potential on local soil (after all, those who've driven the latest Passat will attest to the fact that it's a superb all-round package, yet the latter's poor sales figures suggest that consumers are not attracted to its nameplate, at least not in significant numbers). Brand power in this segment counts for a lot and consumers are more likely to stick to brands that have established reputations and snob appeal in this segment. If that is indeed the case, it’s a pity, because we think that if you are in the market for a business class sedan, the Arteon should be right up there near the top of your shopping list…

We will have the new Volkswagen Arteon on test soon, so look out for a thorough evaluation coming your way in the near future.

Volkswagen Arteon – price in SA (May 2018)

2.0 TDI 130 kW Elegance DSG R599 900
2.0 TDI 130 kW R-Line DSG R649 900
2.0 TSI 206 kW R-Line 4Motion DSG R699 900

The Arteon comes standard with a 5-year/90 000 km maintenance plan, 3-year/120 000 km warranty, 12-year anti-corrosion warranty and a space saver spare wheel.

Kia Stinger: 5 Rivals it Has to Beat

The Kia Stinger is the Korean's first attempt at a true performance sedan and much is expected of it when it arrives in South Africa. Here are five rivals it will have to beat.

Powered by a 3.3-litre twin-turbo V6 engine which packs a 272 kW and 510 Nm punch, the Kia Stinger has notable performance credentials. Power goes to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic gearbox. Kia claims a 0-100 kph time of 4.9 seconds and it'll run onto a top speed of 270 kph. Kia South Africa has confirmed a price tag of R859 995, which may seem a lot, but when compared to its rivals and spec-for-spec, it looks like quite reasonable bang for buck.

The Kia Stinger has the spec advantage as it comes fully loaded, whereas some of its rivals need optional extras that increase the total list price. On paper then, things look quite good for the Korean, but will this be enough to sway the South African buying public who are German car-obsessed?

Use our compare tool to see how these cars stack up against each other

Audi S5 Sportback (R936 000)

The first German out the block is the Audi S5 Sportback quattro, a stylish and luxurious offering. Powered by a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 with 260 kW and 500 Nm, it's brisk to 100 kph, which Audi claims is dispatched in just 4.7 seconds. It also has all-wheel drive, meaning it's not going to be as hands-on as the Stinger, but it's still an admirable GT.

Audi S5 (2017) Review

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BMW 440i Gran Coupe (R929 501)

The stylish BMW 440i Gran Coupe M Sport is one devilishly handsome vehicle and based on looks alone, you wonder why people still buy the 3 Series. It features a 3.0-litre turbocharged straight-six motor which produces 240 kW and 450 Nm. Power goes to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission, and it'll hurtle to 100 kph in a claimed 5.1 seconds. It's unusual for a BMW to be the slowest car amongst its competition, but in a straight line battle, it appears to be slightly outgunned.

BMW 440i Coupe M Sport (2016) Review

BMW 420i Gran Coupe (2017) Quick Review

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Mercedes-AMG C43 (R924 238)

Recently facelifted, the new Mercedes-AMG C43 has yet to reach our shores, but it's also promising brisk straight-line performance thanks to a 3.0-litre biturbo V6 engine mated to an all-wheel-drive setup. AMG claims the C43 will breach 100 kph in a claimed 4.7 seconds. We do expect that the updated C-Class will go on sale in SA during the second half of 2018.

Facelifted Mercedes-AMG C43 Announced

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Jaguar XE S (R1 014 161)

Unfortunately, the pricing of the Jaguar XE S really hurts it as on paper at least, it looks like a formidable offering. It too features a blown 3.0-litre V6. With 280 kW and 450 Nm, it'll race to 100 kph in a claimed 5 seconds. The Jag offers rear-driven handling dynamics and one of the most adaptable chassis in the segment, offering comfort and sportscar handling in the same package.

Jaguar XE (2018) Range Expansion

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Ford Mustang (R872 200)

While all of the above cars are four-door models, it's interesting to point out that for very similar money to the Kia Stinger, you can get behind the wheel of the iconic American muscle car. Admittedly it's a manual-equipped derivative, but when you fire up that 5.0-litre Coyote V8 motor with 306 kW and 530 Nm, you'll forget about having to row the gears yourself. Ford claims the Mustang will do 0-100 kph in 4.8 seconds. The Mustang also continues to be SA's best-selling sportscar, something the Stinger will be hoping it can eat away at.

Ford Mustang 5.0 GT Fastback Auto (2016) Review

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Ford Fiesta ST (2018) International Launch Drive [w/Video]

A Fiesta ST with an LSD (if you'd like one)

Much-improved ride quality

A distant flavour of the 5-pot Focus ST

It passes the girlfriend/mother-in-law test

Summary

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BMW Safety Recall in SA: Are You Affected?

Although the recently announced safety recall campaign relating to some previous-generation BMW 1 Series, 3 Series, X1 and Z4 derivatives is mostly of consequence to consumers in the United Kingdom, just under 16 000 vehicles in South Africa are affected too.

It's best to check

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We Drive 2018 Nissan Micra [updated]

What is it?

The exterior

The interior

Technology

Engine and transmission

Ride and handling

Prices

Summary

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Mercedes Benz X-Class (2018) Video Review

The Mercedes-Benz X-Class double-cab has just hit our showrooms. It's a headline-grabbing bakkie in anyone's book and the first vehicle of its kind from the luxury German manufacturer. What's more, it's South Africa's most expensive bakkie… by some margin.

Further Reading

Isuzu MU-X (2018) Specs & Price

Isuzu has introduced its first new model since General Motors' departure from the South African market: it's a 7-seater Adventure SUV named the MU-X, which is a rival to the Toyota Fortuner, Ford Everest and Mitsubishi Pajero Sport.

Engine and Transmission

Features

Safety tech

Customisation options

Isuzu MU-X Price in South Africa

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Volkswagen announces ‘Most Powerful GTI’

Volkswagen has used the annual Worthersee Festival to showcase a new Golf GTI Concept, which will spawn a road-going production version. Let's meet the Golf GTI TCR Concept

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Mercedes-Benz X-Class (2018) Launch Review

The arrival of Mercedes-Benz's eagerly awaited X-Class in the local market puts an official stamp on the advent of the luxury double-cab bakkie era in South Africa. But what of the new X-Class? Of course it’s similar to the Nissan Navara, but what’s bad about that?

Those rugged looks

What's it like to drive?

So, how much will all this premium cost me?

Summary

Further Reading

2016 Toyota Hilux vs Ford Ranger – Offroad & Review In-Depth Comparison: New Hilux vs Ranger vs KB vs Amarok (video)?

Datsun Go Facelift Announced

Datsun has introduced a facelift of its Go and 7-seater Go+ budget cars. There are several changes, here's what the update entails.

Further reading:

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Volkswagen Arteon (2018) Launch Review

Volkswagen has launched a new flagship sedan in South Africa. The Arteon is a sharply-styled business class fastback and we drove the newcomer in Johannesburg this week. Should you consider the newcomer over its acclaimed rivals?

Looking Good

Familiar interior

How does it drive?

Final thoughts

Volkswagen Arteon – price in SA (May 2018)

Related content:

Kia Stinger: 5 Rivals it Has to Beat

The Kia Stinger is the Korean's first attempt at a true performance sedan and much is expected of it when it arrives in South Africa. Here are five rivals it will have to beat.

Audi S5 Sportback (R936 000)

BMW 440i Gran Coupe (R929 501)

Mercedes-AMG C43 (R924 238)

Jaguar XE S (R1 014 161)

Ford Mustang (R872 200)

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Want to buy a Kia?

2016 Toyota Hilux vs Ford Ranger – Offroad & Review
In-Depth Comparison: New Hilux vs Ranger vs KB vs Amarok (video)
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