The highly anticipated new BMW X3 has finally arrived in South Africa and we headed up the Garden Route to get a taste of what this 3rd generation executive SUV has to offer.
What's new?
From a design point of view, it is not a far jump from its predecessor, in fact, you have to look closely to notice what has been changed. The exterior dimensions are largely unchanged, but the wheelbase is 54 mm longer with the whole car measuring 78 mm longer. The kidney grille has seen some treatment and the foglamps feature a hexagonal design for the first time on a BMW X model.
X3 M40i looks very serious, it's also very quick. 0-100 kph in 4.8 seconds.
The three trim levels available include xLine, M Sport and Luxury Line. The interior, as much as we want to say is a leap forward, is unfortunately not as modern as some of its competitor's cabins. It's not completely outdated, however, with welcomed modern touches here and there, and a few options are now available on this generation X3 such as three-zone automatic climate control so your rear passengers can also choose their own temperature.
The infotainment system and BMW's i-Drive is as impressive as ever. It is comprehensive and easy to navigate. It can now be operated not just by the swivel knob but also via a touchscreen, voice control and gesture control. The gesture control will take some getting used to. My driving partner was an animated storyteller and because of his elaborate hand gestures, we constantly found our navigation map being swiped off the screen and replaced by another feature.
The range
The engine lineup consists of xDrive20d with a 4-cylinder diesel engine, the xDrive30d with a straight-six turbodiesel unit, the xDrive30i with a 4-cylinder turbopetrol engine and the range-topping petrol model, the BMW X3 M40i, which has a 3-litre straight-six turbopetrol. The xDrive 20i will follow at a later stage. The flagship M40i is the one most people are excited about, and so they should be. It is a beast to drive! It has potent delivery outputs of 265 kW of power and 500 Nm of torque. It will get you to 100 kph in just 4.8 seconds. It is quick, very quick!
The interior of the new X3 still looks very derivative. The digital instrument cluster is a modern touch.
This new X3 boasts the same off-road capabilities as the outgoing model and the ground clearance of 204 mm makes it a doddle over gravel and driveway kerbs. It feels sure-footed and the ride is comfortable and smooth. Road noise, even on gravel, is noticeably low.
Overall, the new X3 is as comfortable and as impressive as the outgoing model. It wasn't necessary for BMW to change too much, it is, after all, a winning recipe. The 1.5 million units sold showcase this. Current X3 customers will slip straight into the new offering but whether it will attract buyers from competitors isn't all that clear.
Update: Aston Martin shows off new Vantage [w/Video]
Aston Martin – the marque synonymous with James Bond and everything cool about being British – has revealed its all-new Vantage, which is set to go into production in 2018.
The Aston Martin Vantage is back, and what a way to make a comeback. Look at it… that perfectly proportioned silhouette that’s distinctly Aston Martin is still visible, but there’s certainly a modern interpretation of the bodywork. The body is designed for aerodynamic performance, channelling air for both downforce and cooling. The rear diffuser looks as if it has been pulled straight from its Le Mans-winning GTE race car.
Still a looker from the rear and the diffuser looks particularly racecar-ish.
Where possible the Vantage has been designed to be as aggressive as possible, sharp lines meet fluid curves, trying to separate the Vantage from the more streamlined and GT like DB11.
Under the bonnet, the Vantage makes good use of a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8. There are 375 kW and 685 Nm of torque available from 2 000 rpm to 5 000 rpm in a car that weighs 1.5-tonnes (about the same as a BMW M3).
The 0-96 kph sprint is claimed to take 3.5 seconds and the newcomer will hit a top speed of 313 kph. There is also a relatively standard 8-speed ZF gearbox mounted at the rear.
Aston Martin appears to have gone the technologically advanced sportscar route rather than the rough, raw and hard-edged route. The Vantage is equipped with an electronic differential that can react, within milliseconds, and transfer power to the wheel where it needs it. The diff can be 100% locked and also works to create stability at higher speeds. The steering too is electronically controlled; it adjusts dynamically depending on the car’s speed.
Other electronic controls installed to "enhance" the driving experience include, torque vectoring, dynamic stability control and adaptive dampers.
Interior has much less Merc design in it than the DB11.
Switching to the inside of the Vantage, it still incorporates much of the Mercedes-Benz switchgear, but in a way that preserves the aggressive and sharp theme of the exterior. The gear shift buttons have been rearranged for the Vantage and form a triangular shape in the centre console. The 8-inch LCD screen does all the normal, modern-day functions such as Bluetooth, media playback and navigation. The seats are sculpted in Alcantara and the finishing materials are of the highest quality according to Aston.
Pricing in the UK has been announced at 120 900 pounds or R2.25 million as a direct conversion. It’s on sale from the second quarter of 2018.
Update: New Mercedes-Benz A-Class Interior Revealed
Earlier this month we published spy images of the next-generation Mercedes-Benz A-Class in near-production form. Now, Mercedes-Benz has released images and details of the interior, showing what the new A-Class will look like on the inside. Let's take a closer look…
Picture credit: S. Baldauf/SB-Medien
The next, all-new version of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class is said to be revealed in 2018 and, with it, the Sindelfingen-based brand plans to address some of the criticisms that have been levelled at the current generation of the premium hatchback. For example, the lack of rear passenger space/luggage capacity will be alleviated somewhat by a new platform that has a longer wheelbase, which should see the overall length of the car improve. Rear headroom will be better thanks to the adoption a roofline that doesn’t slope downward quite as acutely.
Mercedes-Benz is also planning on introducing a sedan version of the A-Class in 2018 which is based on Concept A, which was shown earlier this year. Considering the design of the A-Class sedan and our very own rendering of the new A45 AMG, it's apparent that the new A-Class will adopt a sleeker and more purposeful stance.
The next-generation A-Class will be more stylish and spacious with a host of luxury features.
From the spy pics, we finally get a good look at the new car, with its aggressive front end. Also pictured is the A-Class sedan, officially called the CLA.
The engine variants are said to be changed for the new model; the line-up will discard the old 2.1-litre turbodiesel in favour of the newer 2.0-litre unit as found in the E-Class. Other engines on the cards include a freshly-developed 2.0-litre turbopetrol, as well as a 3-cylinder turbopetrol hybrid unit. For those interested in the AMG powerhouse, it has been reported than Benz's Affalterbach division has extracted even more power from the 2.0-litre turbopetrol. It looks like it could produce nearly 300 kW upon its commercial release.
Interior details
A range of screen choices will be offered, giving the new A-Class a distinct upmarket interior look and feel.
First images of the new A-Class' interior surfaced this week. The interior draws design influence from the latest E-Class and even the S-Class, adopting the impressive, 2-screen widescreen cockpit. There are 5 turbine-inspired air vents, much like that found on the E-Class and the multifunction steering wheel is much like that seen on the latest S-Class. There will be 3 screen options available, depending on the model and equipment fitted. The base model will get two 7-inch screens while higher-spec derivatives will combine a 7-inch and 10.25-inch screen or two 10.25 inch screens. As on the E-Class, one screen serves as the instrument cluster, while the other screen accommodates the infotainment system and other vehicles functions.
Head of Interior Design, Hartmut Sinkwitz, said “Thanks to the visual separation of the lower section from the main body of the dashboard, the former appears to float in front of the dashboard. At the same time, the A-Class is the first series-production model to dispense completely with a classic cockpit shroud. This literally places the large widescreen cockpit with its bonded glass technology in the forefront. Moreover, there is no longer a display in the A/C control panel, as the visual representation is exclusively via the central display.”
Turbine-inspired air vents will add an attractive and sporty touch to the interior design.
Mercedes-Benz is moving its new A-Class into a higher premium realm by offering features typically found on it's more luxurious models. Some notable luxury features include seats with climate control and massage functions as well as interior ambient lighting with 64 LEDs.
Interior space will improve too and Mercedes-Benz says that shoulder room has improved by 9mm at the front and 22mm at the rear. Front elbow room has increased by 35mm and 36mm at the rear. Front headroom is up by 7mm while rear passengers will gain an additional 8mm of headspace. Load space has increased by 29 litres to a maximum load capacity of 370 litres. The load bay's aperture is also 200mm wider for easier loading of items and the floor of the load bay has increased by 115mm in length. The rear seats are also split in a 60/40 configuration as standard.
The A, B and C pillars are slimmer, which has improved outward visibility by 10%, according to the firm.
The new A-Class is expected to make its debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2018 and will be followed by the A-Class Sedan thereafter. We will keep you updated as more information becomes available, so stay tuned.
3 Reasons Why BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe is #CarsAwards Finalist
What makes the BMW 420d Gran Coupe Sport Line Sports Auto a strong contender in the Business Class category of the 2017/18 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards – powered by WesBank? We investigate…
Compared with the popular 3 Series sedan, the BMW 4 Series offers something with a little more style to harness BMW’s famed dynamics. The sloping rear roofline gives it a coupe look, but in the case of this Gran Coupe, BMW still squeezes in 2 rear doors. So yes, it is a 3 Series but in a sexier shape. The BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe blends practicality and sensibility with breathtaking looks, making it a formidable contender in this category.
3 Reasons Why BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe is a #CarsAwards Finalist
1. Strong performance
The engine under the bonnet of the BMW 420d is a 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine with 140 kW and a mighty 400 Nm on tap.There’s a distinct performance edge to the vehicle but at no point does it ever sound strained, which is unheard of for a diesel. It’s also surprisingly frugal at the pumps and will do a massive 1 357 km between refills. BMW claims a consumption figure of 4.2 L/100 km.
2. Dynamic handler
The increased suspension stiffness for the facelifted 4 Series has improved its handling abilities as it corners flatter and faster than its more popular 4-door sibling. The increased agility hasn’t affected the ride comfort at all and, on the average commute, comfort mode is sufficiently pliant. Bumps are neatly soaked up and even with the run-flat tyres, the ride is reasonably forgiving.
The steering has also been improved to deliver more feel to the driver. While an electrically assisted steering setup, in general, is not great at providing feel and feedback to the driver, the 420d feels quite well connected to the road with a meaty weighting to the turn.
3. Pleasant interior
The BMW 420d’s cabin is well-built and not lacking in features – provided you’re willing to tick a few options. The interior of the BMW 420d Gran Coupe has received a few material upgrades (as is the custom with facelift models). The infotainment screen has improved resolution and graphics, more high gloss material is used to border the centre stack of dials, the sports steering wheel has been upgraded and there’s an optional digital instrument display available – like the one offered in the new 5 Series.
Worthwhile options are: the reverse-view camera with park distance control, sports seats that are most supportive, active cruise control and the navigation system that incorporates real-time traffic updates.
Have Your Say: Complete our survey and WIN!
Do you own a 4 Series Gran Coupe? We would love to hear from you! Tell us about your experience by completing our Ownership Satisfaction Survey. Your input counts for 50% of the final result!
What cars are the 4 Series Gran Coupe's rivals in #CarsAwards?
The Volkswagen Amarok V6 range in South Africa is set to expand in 2018 with the introduction of a more affordable model, equipped with a manual transmission. Here's what we know so far…
The Volkswagen Amarok V6 double-cab bakkie is the brand's top offering and a 2017/18 #CarsAwards, powered by WesBank. With the imminent arrival of the Mercedes-Benz X-Class and predictable tweaks to the Ranger and Hilux models, the Volkswagen Amarok portfolio is due to expand.
As it stands, there is a trio of Amarok V6 derivatives equipped with 8-speed transmissions, but no manual version, in the South African line-up.
With pricing starting from R692 600, the Amarok V6 goes all the way up to R778 900 for the Extreme flagship. This new derivative changes things up as it'll come to market at a lower price point, but equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox. We suspect that some features will be removed to make it a value-for-money offering.
We were alerted to this development when the vehicle was first confirmed for the UK market and it's claimed that it'll be available in Trendline trim and feature a selectable all-wheel drive system. Unlike its other V6 counterparts, which feature permanent 4Motion, this model is rear-wheel driven until the driver activates four-wheel drive mode. It's also claimed that the manual transmission model has allowed Volkswagen to make a low-range option available, which addresses some concerns from the hardcore 4×4 enthusiasts.
Power outputs have not been confirmed, but the UK version has outputs of 150 kW and 500 Nm, as opposed to the 165 kW and 550 Nm of local units. Performance is expected to be brisk for a bakkie, with a 0-100 kph time of at least 8.4 seconds. When contacted for comment, Volkswagen SA confirmed that the manual Amarok V6 would be released in South Africa, with an estimated time of arrival: around the second quarter of 2018.
The Peugeot 3008 has been transformed from a forgettable MPV to stylish and modern family car/compact SUV. It is exceptionally pretty, both inside and out, and is widely regarded as Peugeot's finest product in ages. #CarsAwards judge Juliet McGuire gets to grips with the newcomer.
The current European Car of the Year and 2017/18 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards finalist in the family car category is the Peugeot 3008 and it has really impressed us with its diverse skill set. Not only is the French family car striking to look at, but its cabin represents a huge leap forward in terms of technology and build quality. However Peugeot has a less-than-stellar reputation in South Africa and while the 3008 may be popular in Europe, it'll have to be exceptional to sell in our market.
There's only one engine available: a 1.6-litre turbopetrol with peak outputs of 121 kW and 240 Nm. A turbodiesel motor with 100 kW will make landfall in 2018. In this episode, regular contributor Juliet McGuire gets behind the wheel of the 3008 (in just below top-of-the-range GT-Line trim) to see if it's worth considering in the wildly popular segment of the market.
Global NCAP and the Automobile Association of South Africa (AA) have launched the first independent crash test assessment of some of South Africa’s most popular compact and small cars under the campaign #SaferCarsforAfrica. The results are scary…
If you think the safety offered by your car is not important, then maybe this news will change your mind! For the first time ever on the African continent, cars sold in South Africa have been subjected to independent crashworthiness testing in Cape Town by Global NCAP and the AA in an effort to highlight road safety and to give local consumers safety knowledge on the cars they buy. This move represents a major win for road safety in South Africa.
A total of 5 cars sold locally were subjected to the test to determine their crashworthiness. The cars subjected to the test were the Toyota Etios, Volkswagen Polo Vivo, Datsun Go+, Renault Sandero and the Chery QQ3.
Lauchlan McIntosh, Chairman of Global NCAP, said: “In 2016 the United Nations General Assembly adopted a road safety resolution which recognised the important role NCAPs play as a catalyst for improving vehicle safety standards. The UN has sought to encourage the spread of NCAPs across the regions and automotive markets of the World and today, in Cape Town, I am delighted that Global NCAP is helping to achieve that goal with the launch of the first ever crashworthiness programme for cars sold in Africa. Global NCAP has provided assistance to launch similar programmes in South America, India and the ASEAN region, programmes which have led to the delivery of safer cars into those markets over the last five years.”
Collins Khumalo, CEO of the AA of South Africa said: “The crash tests represent an important step in road safety in South Africa. We believe consumers have a right to know what the safety ratings are on the cars they want to buy. These results are critical to educating the public about vehicle safety, but, more than that, they empower road users to make informed decisions. In the same way emissions and green ratings are displayed on vehicles, we think safety ratings should also be displayed on vehicles, and we don’t believe this should be too much of a challenge to make happen.
“The involvement of Global NCAP, the FIA Foundation and Bloomberg Philanthropies in bringing these results to Africa, indicates how seriously our partners view road safety, and it is incumbent on us, as South Africans, to consider road, and vehicle safety, in the same way.”
David Ward, Secretary General of Global NCAP said: “It is good to see a four star result in these first ever African crash test ratings. However, it’s extremely disappointing that there’s a zero star car. Such a poor result shows why it is so important for countries like South Africa to fully apply the UN’s crash test standards.
“Consumers need clear, comparative crash test information to help inform their car purchase decisions. This is why Global NCAP supports the introduction of mandatory crash test labelling for all new cars sold in South Africa.”
The Results
Toyota Etios
The Toyota Etios performed the best with a 4-star rating for adult occupant protection in the frontal crash test at 64 kph. The Etios’ body structure was rated as stable and displayed good general adult occupant protection with seatbelts with pre-tensioners for both front passengers. The Etios achieved a 3-star rating for child occupant safety using child seats recommended by Toyota.
Renault Sandero
The Renault Sandero achieved a 3-star rating for adult occupant protection in the frontal crash test at 64 kph. The Sandero’s body structure was rated as stable with acceptable general adult occupant protection. The Sandero however, did not include seatbelt pre-tensioners. In terms of child occupant protection, the Sandero achieved a 4-star rating using child seats recommended by Renault.
Volkswagen Polo Vivo
As for the Polo Vivo, it achieved a 3-star rating for adult occupant protection in the frontal crash test at 64km/h. The vehicle structure was rated as stable, offering acceptable adult occupant protection. The car, however, did not include seatbelt pre-tensioners. The Polo Vivo achieved a 3-star rating for child protection child seats recommended by VW.
Datsun GO+
The Datsun GO+ performed badly, achieving a 1-star rating for its poor adult occupant protection, mainly in the driver's chest in the frontal crash test at 64km/h. The vehicle structure was rated as unstable with steering wheel movement. Even though a steering wheel airbag was fitted, a high compression to the chest of the driver dummy was recorded. There was no airbag for the passenger. The Datsun GO+ only achieved a 2-star rating for child occupant protection using the child seats.
Chery QQ3
The Chery QQ3 achieved a 0-star rating for its poor adult occupant protection mainly in driver’s head and chest. The vehicle structure was rated as unstable and collapsed in crucial areas during the impact. Injury impacts recorded in the dummy’s head and chest, in particular, led to this result. There were no airbags for the adult passengers. Chery did not recommend specific child seats, resulting in points lost for child occupant protection. The QQ3 was given a 0-star rating for child occupant protection, considering the vehicle’s poor readiness to safely accommodate the child seats.
Note: In the assessments, some of the child seats recommended by manufacturers were found to be incompatible with their vehicle’s belt system. In the Polo Vivo, Chery QQ3 and Datsun GO+ there was no three-point seatbelt on the rear centre seats and no way to safely install a child seat or transport a small child safely in that seating position. Only the Toyota Etios and Renault Sandero offer Standard ISOFIX anchorages for the outboard rear positions and three-point seatbelt for all passengers, facilitating minimum conditions to safely install a child seat.
The 3rd-generation BMW X3 executive crossover/SUV will be produced at BMW SA's plant in Rosslyn from 2018. Pricing for this new model is now available thanks to BMW's website and we can share it with you.
The BMW X3, as we have written before, will replace the current 3 Series as BMW South Africa's local production model. The new model has finally been revealed and, as expected, features a much more pronounced (read bigger) kidney grille. Front and rear LED lights have been designed to reflect a 3D look with a low rear roof spoiler giving it a coupe roofline feel.
It will be available in xLine, M Sport and Luxury line trim options while a unique Pythonic Blue colour is specific to the new X3 range.
Size-wise the new model is longer by 78 mm and the wheelbase is longer by 54 mm. The luggage capacity has been kept identical at 550 litres, which should translate into more passenger space.
The engine range is as to be expected with downsized turbopetrol and turbodiesel engines on offer. The X3 M40i is fitted with a potent motor than produces peak outputs of 265 kW and 500 Nm of torque. The 3.0-litre 6-cylinder turbopetrol propels the range-topping X3 from standstill to 100 kph in just 4.8 seconds.
The rest of the range comprises an X3 30i with 185 kW using 7.4L/100 km, an X3 20d with 140 kW and 400 Nm claiming 5.4 L/100 km. The X3 30d has 195 kW and 620 Nm of torque and claims just 6.0L/100 km. All models appear to be fitted with an 8-speed steptronic gearbox.
As expected weight has been shed with the new X3 over the old and it sits around 55 kg lighter now. Some of the trickle-down tech from the 7 and 5 Series has been installed in the X3 as it benefits from semi-autonomous driving, the latest version of active cruise control, gesture control and a more connected infotainment system.
The X3 will begin production in Spartanburg (South Carolina, USA) during July 2017. The South African built X3 will only begin production in April 2018. That means our first batch of X3s will be imported before local production takes over. Production of the current 3 Series at Rosslyn will cease in February 2018 and the all-new BMW X3 goes on sale in South Africa in November 2017.
BMW X3 Specs and Price in South Africa
All BMW X3 models sold in South Africa come with BMW's all-wheel-drive system and all feature automatic transmissions. An 8-speed Sports Automatic Transmission is available as an option, except for the X3 M40i, where it is standard. There are 4 levels of trim: Standard, xLine, Luxury Line and of course the M Sport package. There are plenty of options to consider to truly make each and every X3 unique.
3 Reasons Why is Alfa Romeo Giulia is #CarsAwards Finalist
What makes the Alfa Romeo Giulia 2.0T Super a strong contender in the Business Class category of the 2017/18 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards – powered by WesBank? We investigate…
This is the car which Alfa Romeo is banking on for success in the 21st century. The Alfa Romeo Giulia adds some much-needed passion and personality into a rather Germanic segment. It’s unmistakably Alfa Romeo and it looks purposefully sporty at the front and shapely at the rear. It’s a competent product thanks to full-house specification and a wonderfully communicative chassis. Will it best its German rivals in the Business Class Category?
3 Reasons Why is Alfa Romeo Giulia is #CarsAwards Finalist
1. Refined and efficient
This new Alfa Romeo chassis and powertrain has pleased the pundits. A 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder is on duty and it pushes out 147 kW and 330 Nm. Power goes to the rear wheels via an 8-speed automatic gearbox. It may be a bog-standard automatic but it has been mapped to feel like a sportier dual-clutch gearbox. It’s a refined and responsive setup.
Despite its performance capability, the Alfa Romeo Giulia is also fuel efficient and is claimed to consume just 5.9 L/100km.
2. Tech and safety galore
The Alfa Romeo Giulia comes to market with substantial tech as standard. Dual-zone climate control is a nice standard feature and the 8.8-inch infotainment system connects quickly via Bluetooth and USB ports – it's one of the better phone-to-car systems we’ve used. Navigation is available too.
One of the biggest drawcards of the Giulia is the safety spec. There’s a full complement of airbags and stability control systems, the Giulia features an integrated brake system, forward collision warning with autonomous emergency brake and pedestrian recognition, lane departure warning and cruise control with speed limiter. A blind-spot monitoring system, meanwhile, is an optional extra.
3. Driving bliss
The Giulia was conceived as a performance car first with the chassis designed and tweaked specifically for it. The engine moves the Giulia along effortlessly and is quick to respond to throttle inputs. There’s plenty of torque in reserve if you need to overtake at freeway speeds and acceleration from standstill to 100 kph is claimed at 6.6 seconds.
It’s great fun to coax through your favourite twisty section and provides astounding confidence to push and find the limits. Grip levels are high, thanks to the 17-inch wheels.
Watch our video review of the range-topping Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio below!
Have Your Say: Complete our survey and WIN!
Do you own a Giulia? We would love to hear from you! Tell us about your experience by completing our Ownership Satisfaction Survey. Your input counts for 50% of the final result!
Renault Duster 1.5 dCi Dynamique EDC (2017) Quick Review
The Renault Duster was missing one key element from its line up. The lack of an automatic transmission was a big one, but finally, Renault has answered the call for a clutch-less option. We went for a quick drive in the Renault Duster EDC to see what it's like.
We like: Ease of use, good powertrain combination, generous specification as standard, spacious
We don’t like: Feels cheap in places, gearbox doesn't like bad traffic situations
Alternatives:
The award-winner: The Suzuki Vitara is a 2016/17 #CarsAwards champion that excels in terms of practicality and build quality, but its 1.6-litre engine is frugal, not punchy.
The popular choice: A revised replacement for the Ford Ecosport is imminent. It offers commendable driving manners but suffers from a cheap-feeling interior.
An MPV that became-SUV It may look like an off-roader, but the Honda BRV is essentially a Mobilio on stilts. It's the only vehicle here that can transport 7 occupants, however.
Only other turbodiesel automatic compact family car: top-of-the-range Hyundai Creta is spacious and reasonably equipped, but, comparatively, a lot more expensive.
The Duster's infotainment screen displays a comprehensive menu, but it is placed a little too low for our liking.
What is it?
The Duster is a typical "honest vehicle" – it doesn't pretend to be what it isn't. It doesn't have aspirations of appealing to the upper crust, it doesn't claim to punch above its weight (unless you're looking for the 4×4 capability of the flagship model) and its value proposition is strong. Although the next generation Duster is due in the local market in 2018, we are enamoured with the current iteration, of which we've tested numerous versions: front- and all-wheel drive, petrol and diesel; we even did an extended test with the 4×4. The range offers a variety of options, but the one thing that was lacking was an automatic derivative. Now, finally, one has arrived – its equipped with an electronic dual-clutch transmission sourced from Getrag.
The Good
The smooth-shifting 'box
The 6-speed EDC transmission works well and provides smooth upshifts.
We were delighted to find that the Duster comes with an EDC, as opposed to the old-school, torque-converter automatic because dual-clutch 'boxes tend to offer quicker, smoother shifts and better efficiency. The tried-and-trusted powerplant and new transmission generally work well together. In free-flowing traffic and on the open road, upshifts are smooth and effortless, while downshifts are mostly unobtrusive. We say mostly as the final downshift from 2nd to 1st, when coming to a halt, always resulted in a tiny thud. We also noticed some jerkiness in bumper-to-bumper traffic. These are quirks we'd accept at this price point. You can, of course, switch the gearbox into a manual mode and swap cogs yourself in a sequential mode.
Value for money
One of the reasons we like the Duster (and probably the biggest reason it sells so well in the South African market), is that the plucky Renault, despite its advanced years, offers outstanding value for money. When you compare the range's derivatives directly against their rivals, it's hard to argue against the French car's bang-for-buck factor. There are very few compact family cars/baby SUVs with this much spec, features and safety under R300 000. The flagship 4×4's price tag does break through the R300k barrier, however.
With this 1.5 dCi Dynamique EDC derivative, you get satellite navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, cruise control, speed limiter, front fog lights, rear park distance control, aux/USB inputs, as well as remote steering wheel controls for radio/phone. With its thrifty 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine, you'll also be saving money at the pumps as it consumes very little fuel. Renault claims a fuel consumption figure of 4.8 L/100km.
Although sturdy enough, the Duster's interior does have some cheap-feeling plastic finishing dotted around the cabin.
Practicality
It may look compact, but there's plenty of room in the Renault Duster. The Duster's spare wheel is cleverly located underneath the car, freeing up crucial space in the luggage bay. Renault claims the Duster can hold up to 475 litres of cargo with the rear seats up and 1 636 litres with the seats folded down. At the front, there are numerous little practical touches and places to put keys and coffee cups. The front passenger will enjoy the recess above the glove compartment and its an ideal spot to place that roadtrip-special bag of biltong.
The Not So Good
Build quality
A basic air conditioning system does duty in the Renault Duster.
We adore the Duster for offering low-cost motoring for the masses, but while we can forgive it for ergonomic issues (such as awkwardly placed switches and the location of the touchscreen) we find it hard to defend some of its rudimentary interior finishes. There are some cheap-feeling plastics in various parts of the cabin and the fascia doesn't feel very sturdy, but the surfaces will probably be able to withstand the onslaught of children (and their grubby hands). The cloth upholstery feels durable enough, but you can get leather as an option.
Price and after-sales support
The Renault Duster costs R299 900 and it comes with a 5-year/150 000km mechanical warranty, a 3-year/45 000km service plan (with service intervals at 15 000km intervals) and a 6-year anti-corrosion warranty. The only two options available are metallic paint (R2 500) and leather seats (R10 000).
Verdict
Finally, the Duster range (a fixture of the South African market since 2013) is complete… it only needed an automatic model and Renault has closed the loop. To use that awful cliche (if you absolutely must – ed), there is now a Duster for everyone. We were impressed with the powertrain, despite the minor roughness in bumper-to-bumper traffic. It still rides and drives like a Duster, and space abounds in both the luggage bay and cabin. The engine may be getting on a bit, but it's still a capable motor. It's only when you're really pressing on that the rough turbodiesel clatter overwhelms the cabin. As for the ride quality, the Renault Duster is fairly refined (at the price point) and the car feels as well-sorted as a product of its age should.
With Dynamique spec, you get more than a fair number of mod cons and safety features for your money. The Duster has not lost any of its easy-to-live-with charm. As of now (November 2017) this derivative represents the best Duster in the range; consider the 4×4 only if you're looking to venture off the beaten track, but we warned: you're bound to miss the auto!
The Renault Duster range is now complete, thanks to the addition of an automatic transmission.
