BMW i8 Coupe (2017) Review

The BMW i8 Coupe, which was introduced in South Africa in 2015, is the only mid-engined hybrid sportscar in the local market. It appeals to brand loyalists, eco-warriors, trendsetters and especially early adopters, but is it a wise purchase when there are more powerful and faster performance cars available?

We like: Design, efficiency, performance, relatively good everyday usability

We don’t like: Better suited to bursts of cut-and-thrust driving than long-distances at high speeds.

Alternatives:

The BMW i8 doesn't have any direct rivals, but here are 2 similarly priced alternatives to consider…

The first-class hybrid: Consider the Mercedes-Benz S500e L priced at R1 931 800. It’s a lavish alternative to the i8 and offers a total of 325 kW and 650 Nm of torque from its hybrid powertrain.
For traditional kicks: Consider the Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS PDK priced at R1 892 000. Its turbocharged 6-cylinder, 3.0-litre boxer engine offers peak outputs of 331 kW and 550 Nm of torque.

Compare the BMW i8 Coupe with the Mercedes-Benz S500e L and Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS PDK

The i8 offers an intriguing mix of efficiency and performance thanks to its advanced hybrid powertrain.

Why is it important?

The i8 is the halo car for BMW's i Division and at the time of going to market and, to a large extent, to this day, the carbon-fibre-laced wing-doored coupe represents a glimpse at the future of motoring, well, at least the way the Bavarian firm envisions it. The i8 and its award-winning i3 sibling demonstrate how electrification and hybrid technology has (and will continue to) shape our motoring experience into the future.

In the case of the i8, its exterior design is nothing short of outlandish. Suffice to say there are few cars with asking prices this side of R2 million that offers as much sheer kerb appeal as the low-slung, aerodynamically-sculpted BMW. It's near-identical in design to the 2011 BMW i8 Concept upon which it is based and the fact that it looks like a concept car makes it even more radical and, for some, appealing.

Since its local launch, approximately 227 i8s have been sold, with about 124 units sold in 2015 alone. If you consider that the i8 is not a high-volume model and that it is expensive to produce, those numbers are quite impressive, especially in our market. Now, more than 3 years since its launch, we finally had the chance to sample the i8 for ourselves. This is what we thought of it…

How does it fare in terms of…

Kerb appeal?

Sleek and curvaceous, the i8's efficient aerodynamic design contributes to its efficiency credentials as well as its performance capability.

The design of the dual-tone i8 is timeless and it continues to enjoy considerable head-turning ability. This i8's bright yellow paint finish is hard to miss and everywhere we drove, people gawked at the sportscar with admiration and in amazement. The amount of attention this i8 garnered was incredible to witness.

Much has been written (and said) about the i8’s aerodynamic wizardry, but for brevity, we’ll just say that by virtue of a low and wide stance, flowing lines and aerodynamic floating roof pillars towards the rear, the BMW has a stunning dynamic look. Just about every angle of the i8 is achingly pretty. The upward-folding scissor doors add to the sense of theatre and they emphasise the i8’s sporting character.

The i8’s efficient lightweight design consists of an aluminium chassis and a passenger cell made from carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP). Exposed carbon fibre is seen when you open the doors and carbon fibre interior details further allude to its lightweight construction.

In terms of kerb appeal, there aren't many cars with as much star-power as the i8, certainly not in its price bracket. Just be prepared: wherever you drive the BMW, everyone will look at you and the car…

Powertrain technology?

When fully charged, the i8 delivers entertaining performance, but it also offers up to 37 km of emission-free driving in full-electric mode.

A plug-in hybrid powertrain is at the heart of the i8 and combines a combustion engine with an electric motor and high-voltage lithium-ion battery to produce total outputs of 266 kW and 570 Nm of torque, all of which is transferred to the terra firma via a 6-speed automatic transmission. The engine alone produces 170 kW and 320 Nm of torque while the electric motor produces 96 kW and 250 Nm of torque. In normal operation, all 4 wheels are driven, with the electric motor driving the front axle and the combustion engine driving the rear axle.

However, in full electric mode or eDrive, the combustion engine shuts off completely and all the driving power is generated via the front axle with the i8 wafting along in eerie silence. When fully charged, the i8 has an electric range of 37 km and can reach speeds up to 120 kph in full electric mode.

We charged the i8 overnight using the standard charge cable, but i8 owners can also charge the car using a dedicated wallbox for faster charging times. Furthermore, specific charging points are located in all major city centres allowing you to charge your i8 when you are out and about. If you really want to maximise charging, BMW can also arrange the installation of a premium solar carport at your home to generate electricity to charge your i8. Alrighty, then…

Performance?

The i8 is light, fast and efficient and returns admirable fuel consumption figures on a daily basis.

The i8's jaw-dropping supercar-like styling aside, some might scoff at the thought of buying a sportscar fitted with a 3-cylinder 1.5-litre turbocharged engine and an electric motor, but don’t be fooled. With most sportscars (not to mention supercars), fuel economy is less of a consideration than in conventional passenger cars, but not with the i8. The i8 is the poster child for efficient motoring and we averaged 8.6 L/100 km, which, by sportscar standards, is excellent but compared with BMW's claim (2.1 L/100 km) is disappointing. Nevertheless, it suggests with a more considered driving style, much better efficiency is possible.

The advantages of driving in full electric mode in Cape Town became clear when the i8 shuttled to the Cars.co.za office in peak hour traffic. Just about every car was chugging gas as the i8 rolled by silently with no emissions. With the engine sleeping behind you, there’s no engine noise in the cabin, just an intriguing electric swooshing sound as you floor the pedal. It’s marvellous!

The digital instrument cluster gives the i8 a futuristic look and Sport mode allows for maximum energy recuperation.

But then, you switch into Sport mode, the engine awakens and the character of the car suddenly changes.The i8 responds positively to throttle inputs and when you unleash maximum, combined power, the i8 surges forward fast in a refreshingly light way. With electricity charged up at the front wheels and petrol firing behind you, the i8 will punch from zero to 100 kph in 4.4 seconds and go on to a top speed of 250 kph. It’s fast, but not quite supercar fast. You will have to forgive the augmented engine sound, but it’s still a great sound to hear. You can’t have everything, you know…

The transmission is generally unobtrusive and shifts smoothly in normal operation, but it’s far better to engage manual shifts using the shift paddles to get the most out of the i8 during spirited runs. The i8 also recoups the most energy when in Sport mode and electric power regenerates relatively quickly when driving in this mode. In addition to Sport mode, the driver can also choose to drive in Comfort, Eco Pro mode, and of course, full electric eDrive mode.

Perhaps the most intriguing and likeable characteristic of the i8 is that it’s wonderfully easy to drive and the technology is far from being daunting. The i8 is approachable, accessible and easy to grasp and that fact makes it even more appealing.

Ride and handling?

The i8 is dynamically gifted and it delivers precise and sure-footed handling.

With it’s lightweight and aerodynamically efficient design, the i8 offers splendid handling ability. A major highlight is the light steering feel and it responds well to even the slightest adjustments. The suspension setup is on the firm side, but still pliant enough to make the i8 suitable for daily driving.

Through corners, the i8 displays composure and precision and because of it’s wide stance and low centre of gravity it corners with very little body roll. Grip levels are high and even at speed, the i8 hugs the asphalt with reassurance and it never feels intimidating. It’s a hugely fun car to wield on a winding mountain pass and your fondness will grow every time you get behind the wheel.

Interior comfort and practicality?

The lightweight sports seats are comfortable and supportive but getting into the i8 will take some practice.

Look. getting into and out of the i8 takes some practice (especially if you are tall) and although your first few attempts won’t be very graceful, you soon learn how to slide into the seats with relative ease. Getting out requires a bit more abdominal strength and a lean against the B-pillar, but once you get the hang of it, it’s a minor gripe.

Once inside, you are met with a stylishly sculpted interior. You sit low in the i8 and we found the lightweight leather seats to offer adequate comfort and support. The cabin is essentially split in half and you will find a storage bin in the centre console with a USB port and BMW’s familiar iDrive dial which allows the driver to explore the full functionality of the infotainment system, which with all due respect, could do with an update. It is, however, easy enough to use and navigation is standard. You can also download the BMW i Remote App which will show you information such as vehicle status and battery charge level, among other functions. The digital instrument cluster is also a great feature and adds to the futuristic interior design.

The interior design is pleasingly modern and uncluttered with familiar switchgear found on other BMW models.

The infotainment screen also displays the rear view camera and surround view of the car which ensures that you avoid unwanted bumps in close-quarter driving situations. Front and rear park distance control is also fitted.

As a 2+2 coupe, the rear seats of the i8 are not comfortable for adults and that space is far better used as storage space. The i8 does have a small 154-litre load bay accessed beneath the rear glass, but it can’t cater for much luggage. If you have a family to transport, the i8 won’t cut it…

Safety Features

The i8 is equipped with 6 airbags as well as ABS with EBD, brake assist, electronic stability control and traction control. A head-up display is offered as an option and will keep the driver’s attention on the road while showing information such as speed limits, navigation instructions, speed, infotainment and telephone information. A camera-based collision warning system is fitted along with pedestrian warning with a city braking function.

Pricing and warranty

The BMW i8 Coupe is priced at R2 015 300 and is sold with a 2-year/unlimited km warranty and a 5-year/100 000km maintenance plan. The i8’s battery is covered for 8-years/100 000 km.

Buy a BMW i8 on Cars.co.za

Verdict

The BMW i8 is the most exciting hybrid on offer in SA and has loads of aesthetic appeal to make it worthy of consideration.

The i8 is a refreshing take on what the future of the sportscar holds and it’s certainly one of the most exciting plug-in hybrid products on offer in our market. It’s a striking package and it offers appealing alternative performance to your traditional combustion engine sportscar. Sure, it might lack a degree of au naturel aural excitement, but there is a sense of occasion when you drive the i8 and that’s a huge positive.

We also like dual nature of the i8. It can be a frugal, emission-free (if less than practical) daily runner while also offering notable performance and handling dynamics when you want it to. It’s entertaining to drive and is comfortable enough to drive every day (even though few people will). Perhaps where the i8 falls short, is over longer distances. When driven hard for protracted periods, the petrol engine cannot recharge the battery fast enough for the motor to contribute to performance significantly… You would be forgiven for feeling frustrated at seeing a long empty road ahead of you with no real performance to exploit.

Having said all that, the majority of i8 buyers will probably be more than willing to deal with the BMW's idiosyncrasies. It remains an utter head-turner of a vehicle, is one of very few petrol-electric hybrid cars that can be considered a heart-over-head purchase proposition and, most of all, it elevates performance driving from a selfish, indulgent on-road pursuit to something that can be enjoyed on a cerebral level too…

Update: New Audi A7 Sportback Revealed [w/Video]

Audi has taken the wraps off its new A7 Sportback featuring a striking design and a lavish interior. Let’s take a closer look.

The all-new Audi A7 Sportback has been revealed and by all accounts, it looks phenomenal!

Design changes

The visual improvements to the new A7 have made it look sharper and more dynamic.

The new A7’s front-end features a sharper and larger single-frame grille than the outgoing model and slimmer headlights are fitted with vertical LED stripes for added effect while the newly sculpted air intakes give the A7 a more purposeful look. A sculpted bonnet, strong character lines and a swooping roofline provides an attractive side-view.

At the rear, Audi A7 Sportback features a tapered rear-end with a distinctive and animated light unit that extends across the width of the vehicle with 13 vertical LED light segments. An integrated spoiler deploys from 120 kph and a new diffuser with chrome-trimmed artificial exhaust tips is also fitted.

The A7's interior is plush and thoroughly modern featuring Audi's Virtual Cockpit and 2 touchscreens for infotainment and in-car functions.

The interior design has been extensively reworked and Audi’s 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit makes its appearance yet again. Two screens are also fitted and include a 10.1-inch touchscreen housing the infotainment system while the lower 8.1-inch touchscreen is mainly dedicated to in-car functions such as controlling the climate control air conditioning as well as keyboard functionality for punching in telephone numbers and addresses. Other key features include a head-up display, Bang and Olufsen sound system, Valcona leather upholstery, voice control and attractive ambient lighting.

What’s under the bonnet?

A 250 kW turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 will power the new A7 with more engine options introduced in due course.

The new A7 Sportback will initially be powered by a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine with outputs of 250 kW and 500 Nm of torque. It will use a 7-speed S tronic transmission in conjunction with quattro all-wheel drive to achieve a claimed zero to 100 kph sprint time of 5.3 seconds before arriving at a top speed of 250 kph. Audi will then introduce a range of petrol and diesel option in 4-cylinder and 6-cylinder guise.

As you would expect, the new Audi A7 is packed with the latest driver assistance technology including AI Traffic Jam Pilot, Audi’s first Level 3 autonomous system seen on the new A8. Using camera’s and sensors, the system will take control of the vehicle on the highway and initiate functions such as braking, accelerating and steering without input from the driver. The new A7 will also be able to autonomously negotiate parking spaces. Familiar features such as adaptive cruise control will also be offered.

You can expect the new Audi A7 to arrive in South Africa later in 2018 and local specification and pricing will be confirmed closer to launch.

Buy an Audi A7 on Cars.co.za

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet in SA (2017) Specs & Pricing

Following the arrival of the stylish E-Class Coupe earlier this year, Mercedes-Benz now welcomes the E-Class Cabriolet to its local E-Class range. Herewith specification and pricing for the new E-Class Cabriolet.

Summer is here and so is the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet, perfect timing we’d say! The E-Class Cabriolet completes the E-Class family of vehicles which also includes the sedan and coupe. This elegant and stylish 4-seater convertible is now available with 3 engine choices including the diesel-powered E 220d and 2 petrol derivatives seen in the E 300 and the range-topping E 400 with 4Matic all-wheel drive.

Engine Outputs

The E-Class Cabriolet offers 3 engine choices and a host of optional equipment.

The E 220d is powered by a 4-cylinder 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine with 143 kW and 400 Nm of torque.

The petrol-powered E 300 offers 180 kW and 370 Nm of torque from its 4-cylinder, 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine.

If it’s more power you seek, then perhaps the E 400 with 4Matic all-wheel drive will do the trick with 245 kW and 480 Nm of torque developed by its 6-cylinder, 3.0-litre turbo petrol engine.

All derivatives are fitted with a 9-speed automatic transmission as standard.

Key features

The optional widescreen cockpit is a nice-to-have feature in a thoroughly modern and comfortable interior.

The E-Class Cabriolet rides some 15 mm lower than the sedan version and is fitted with a comfort-tuned Agility Control suspension with an amplitude-dependent damping system as standard. Dynamic Body Control suspension with adjustable damping is offered as an option, as is the Air Body Control multi-chamber air suspension.

The E-Class Cabriolet is fitted with an automatic acoustic fabric soft-top roof that is offered in either brown, dark blue, dark red or black. With its multi-layered structure, the soft-top roof reduces wind and driving noise and can be fully opened and closed in 20 seconds at speeds up to 50 kph. The roof is stored in a soft-top compartment in the boot which reduces loading capacity from 385 litres (with the roof up) to 310 litres (with the roof open). A new feature is the 50:50 rear folding backrests, which means you can load longer items through the load bay and into the interior.

A draught-stop system and neck-level heating allow for year-round drop-top driving.

Much like the E-Class sedan and coupe, the cabriolet is equipped with high-quality interior finishes. A highlight feature is the optional widescreen display that incorporates 2 high-resolution 12.3-inch displays under a single glass cover. The instrument cluster screen is configurable with 3 styles including Classic, Sport and Progressive. The turbine-shaped air vents are in Silvershadow and provide a sporty touch to the interior.

The instrument cluster and infotainment system can be operated using the steering-mounted touch controls, touchpad or using the controller in the centre console. The E-Class Cabriolet is equipped with 4 individual seats and various trim and finish combinations are on offer to meet your requirements.

Additional optional comfort features include an automatic draught-stop system called AIRCAP, which incorporates an electric wind deflector found in the roof frame and an electric draught stop behind the rear seats to help eliminate wind turbulence when the roof is down. The front seats can also be equipped with an AIRSCARF system that will blow warm air onto your neck, which means you can drive with the roof down in cool weather too.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet – Price in South Africa (October 2017)

Mercedes-Benz E 220d Cabriolet – R919 500

Mercedes-Benz E 300 Cabriolet – R955 500

Mercedes-Benz E400 4Matic Cabriolet – R1 134 500

The E-Class Cabriolet is sold with a 2-year/unlimited km warranty and a 6-year/100 000km maintenance plan.

Buy a Mercedes-Benz E-Class on Cars.co.za

3 Reasons Why Suzuki Ignis 1.2 GL is #CarsAwards Finalist

What makes the Suzuki Ignis 1.2 GL a strong contender in the Budget Car category of the 2017/18 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards programme – powered by WesBank? Read on…

The Ignis is the latest addition in Suzuki’s lineup and with its quirky styling and raised ride height, it brings crossover appeal to the budget car segment. With an attractive blend of affordability, practicality and frugality, the Ignis has much to offer.

3 Reasons Why Suzuki Ignis 1.2 GL is #CarsAwards Finalist

1. Brand strength and attractive pricing

Suzuki is the current #CarsAwards Brand of the Year champion, and for good reason. Suzuki has a sterling reputation for building durable, long-lasting cars. Locally it is one of the fastest-growing brands and customer satisfaction ratings have always been very good.

More than this, the Ignis 1.2 GL is attractively priced at R169 900 and is sold with Suzuki’s usual 3-year/100 000 km warranty and also has, as standard, a service plan of 2-years/30 000 km.

2. Practical city car

The Suzuki Ignis is powered by a naturally-aspirated 1.2-litre petrol engine offering 61 kW and 113 Nm of torque with a claimed fuel consumption figure of 5.1 L/100km. Suzuki is one of the few manufacturers that is often able to reach its claimed figures, so you can expect solid results at the pumps.

The Ignis combines its frugality with practicality by offering a sizable 260-litre load bay. With the 60/40 split rear seats folded down, space increases further to 947 litres. Furthermore, its 180mm ground clearance makes it well-suited to local conditions and will be particularly useful on gravel or poor road surfaces.

3. Value for money

The Ignis 1.2 GL comes standard with air conditioning, front and rear electric windows, a Bluetooth Radio/CD player with USB and auxiliary support. In terms of safety, the Ignis is fitted with 2 airbags, ABS with EBD and brake assist. The Ignis is therefore difficult to ignore in the budget car segment.

Watch our video review of the Suzuki Ignis below!

Have Your Say: Complete our survey and WIN!

Do you own an Ignis? 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!

Which cars are the Ignis' rivals in #CarsAwards?

The 2017/18 #CarsAwards finalists: Budget Car category

Compare the Ignis' specs with those of the Kia Picanto 1.0 Style & VW Take Up!

Participate in our Ownership Satisfaction Survey: Great prizes up for grabs

Which car brands provide the best after-sales service to their customers? And, which cars are most likely to be recommended by their owners? These are questions that the Cars.co.za Ownership Satisfaction Survey answers – however, ongoing public participation in the survey enables Cars.co.za to deliver the most relevant and accurate data-driven insights to consumers PLUS the findings have a whopping 50% impact on the outcomes of the #CarsAwards.

Do you own a vehicle that is less than 5 years old and serviced by a franchised dealer? Participate in our survey (even if you have before) and stand to win awesome prizes

In 2015, Cars.co.za and data specialists Lightstone Consumer launched a comprehensive Ownership Satisfaction Survey for the purpose of gathering real consumer input on local buying, servicing and ownership experiences. Since launch, thousands of verified surveys have been completed by South African car owners, resulting in one of the most comprehensive and significant databases of its type.

"When we repositioned the Cars.co.za brand in 2015 as a consumer champion, we realised that we had to find a way to gather real, credible, worthwhile consumer input," explains Cars.co.za Consumer Experience Manager, Hannes Oosthuizen. "Journalists may be able to evaluate a product against its peers, but when it comes to what it's like to live with a vehicle, you simply have to enter into a conversation with the people that live with those cars every day… the owners."

The data gathered during the survey's first "harvest" sheds light on some fascinating insights:

Likelihood to Recommend (By Model Type):

In terms of the 45-odd vehicle models that achieved sufficient sample size, the following vehicles recorded the highest "Likelihood to recommend" scores of all;

1. Suzuki Swift, Honda Jazz	9.4
2. Audi A3, Toyota Fortuner, Volkswagen Amarok	9.3
3. Isuzu KB, Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger	9.2
4. Volkswagen Golf	9.1
5. Mercedes-Benz C-Class, VW Jetta, Hyundai ix35	9.0

Overall Service Experience

Based on their after-sales service experience (at a franchised service agent/dealership only), owners were asked to indicate how likely it was that they would recommend the dealership to a friend or family member. Owners of the following brands said they were most likely to recommend the dealerships where they serviced their vehicles…

Suzuki
Mitsubishi
Audi

Suzuki’s performance in this Survey contributed to it emerging tops in the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards – powered by WesBank, earlier this year. “As of this year, the Survey results plug into our Awards programme in a very real way,” explains Oosthuizen. “After all, a vehicle is only a great purchase if excellent product qualities are matched by equally great after-sales service.”

Reliability (By Model Type)

In terms of the 45-odd vehicle models that achieved sufficient sample size, it is interesting to note that the following cars are rated as the most dependable by their owners:

1. Suzuki Swift	9.5
2. Toyota Yaris, Honda Jazz, Toyota Fortuner	9.4
3. BMW 1 Series	9.2
4. VW Polo Vivo, Honda Civic, Mazda3	9.1
5. Hyundai i10, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Toyota Corolla, Audi A3, Hyundai iX35	9.0

To reiterate, ongoing public participation in the Cars.co.za Ownership Satisfaction Survey enables Cars.co.za to deliver the most relevant and accurate data-driven insights to consumers PLUS the survey represents a golden opportunity for owners to have a say in the outcome of the #CarsAwards (the findings of the survey have a 50% bearing on which vehicles are named the winners in the 13 respective categories of the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards – powered by WesBank as well as a 100% bearing on which manufacturer/importer wins the prestigious Brand of the Year award).

To participate in the survey (even if you have before, you are free to do so again) click the link below and you will stand in line to win one of these prizes: a GoPro Hero 5 Session Full HD Action Camera, a Samsung 48-inch Full HD LED TV, an Apple iPhone SE 16GB (Space Grey), a Dji Spark Drone or a Playstation 4 (competition runs until November 30).

Do you own a vehicle that is less than 5 years old and serviced by a franchised dealer? Participate in our survey (even if you have before) and stand to win awesome prizes

You may also be interested in:

2017/18 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards – powered by WesBank; Semi-Finalists

Announcement: Cars.co.za Consumer Awards – Powered by WesBank 2017/18

World Car Awards 2018: The Journey starts Here

Winners: Cars.co.za Consumer Awards – Powered by WesBank 2016/17

Land Rover Discovery (2017) Video Review

The new Land Rover Discovery makes a big statement. The bulky design is gone and the new, sleeker look isn't to everyone's liking. Has it lost its off-road capabilities along with its old look? We send it on an off-road course full of mud and hills to see if it can still cope with the rough stuff.

The model we chose for the test is arguably the one to have, it has the 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel engine with 600 Nm of torque. It's much lighter on fuel than the petrol version and in this HSE Luxury guise, comes with air suspension as standard. The new Disco sheds around 450 kg of its kerb weight in total, but still weighs in at over 2 tonnes.

The interior has gone through a significant update with loads of new tech and practicality aids being added. Everything is electrical, which may concern some of the hardcore fans so we will have to wait and see as to how thorough Land Rover has been with its testing of the new Disco.

We head to the off-road testing basin at Hellgat outside of Cape Town to give the new Discovery a bit of a shakedown. Enjoy…

Land Rover Discovery Si6 HSE (2017) Review

Land Rover Discovery goes hardcore with SVX

Land Rover Discovery (2017) Launch Review

SA's Unsung Off-Road Sales Hero

Range Rover Velar: 5 Cool Features

Searching for a used Discovery?

Start your search here

BMW M4 CS (2017) Launch Review [with Video]

BMW has reinvented the CS badge and applied it to yet another special-edition M4. The highly desirable M4 CS, which was launched in South Africa in October 2017 with an eye-watering price tag of R1 838 500, feels more like a refinement than a reinvention, but it’s better than an M4 Competition and more usable than a GTS…

By Matt Saunders

The BMW M4 CS is the BMW Motorsport Division’s definitive take on the headlining 4 Series Coupe. Maybe. And if so, only at the fifth time of asking if we include the late "DTM Champion Edition" in the list of M4s we’ve been treated to already. Well, it’s no more cynical than Porsche’s profiteering with the ‘991’-generation 911 GT3, is it? Where desirable performance derivatives are concerned, it seems anything goes.

The M4 CS comes to market about a year after the even more expensive and specialised M4 GTS. It will be in production for the thick end of 2 years and although BMW initially said it’s not a limited-series car ("we will simply make as many as (we) can within the time (we have) to make them," M boss Frank van Meel was quoted as saying), it now appears that only 3 000 units will be produced.

Expect BMW to carry the CS badging forward onto new products. Next up is possibly the M2 CS.

Perhaps most interesting of all, the M4 CS is the start of something new and interesting from the M Division. Cars in this mould, with CS badging, will be a constant feature of BMW M’s model range from this point onwards – or so say company insiders. In light of that fact, Munich certainly wouldn’t want to undershoot against expectations of the first one.

No danger of that last time around, you may remember. The M4 GTS was an incredible car, but one that stretched the margins of acceptability for a BMW M-car in all sorts of ways: most notably on usability and value. It cost R2.2 million, it had a relatively high-maintenance water-injected engine, it had manually adjustable coilover suspension, it had no back seats and – much too firm suspension to even attempt a daily drive to the shops and back. BMW said it would build 700 of them (23 made it to SA) and, a year on from the car’s appearance, the word is that you can still get one overseas, with relative ease and without waiting too long. Not exactly a smash hit, then.

So if Porsche 911 GT3 RS-level mechanical execution and outlay turned out to be a bit rich for an M4, what happens when BMW M takes some of the GTS’ more trick ingredients, halves that car’s price premium (allegedly) and keeps everyday road suitability front of mind during the dynamic tuning process? The new M4 CS is the answer: a car with plenty of the special track-ready flavour of the GTS, but whose engine and suspension don’t require a ready supply of distilled water and a garage with a hydraulic lift to get the best out of.

What's it like?

Half Competition Pack-half GTS, the M4 CS appears to strike a perfect middle-ground.

The CS uses the lightweight carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CRP) bonnet and rear diffuser of the GTS and adds its own new fixed-height front splitter and rear gurney spoiler (also made out of CRP), while retaining the carbon roof of the regular M4 Coupe. Inside, it’s got the weight-saving lightweight door skins and centre console of the GTS as well as the special pared-down stereo. But, it’s also got back seats.

Unlike the GTS it doesn’t get lightweight carbon buckets up front or BMW M’s carbon-ceramic brakes as standard. Also, instead of the GTS’ complicated coilover suspension, the CS uses a retuned version of the M4 Competition’s suspension fitted out with new forged wheels and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres.

The upshot is that the new M4 CS goes only some of the way towards matching the weight saving of the GTS. It’s 35 kg lighter than an M4 Competition (before you add those optional carbon stoppers) while the GTS enjoyed about twice that advantage.

But that’s only half the picture…

The M4 CS’ engine makes a sizeable improvement to the real-world performance of the even the M4 Competition mostly by matching the peak torque of the GTS – 600 Nm – without the need for that water injection system. Amazingly, the engine’s internals are the same as those of the Competition Package car, but its software management is new and simply works its twin monoscroll turbos harder at middling revs.

Peak power increases to 339 kW, which remains a distance behind what the likes of the Mercedes-AMG C63 S Coupe and Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio sedan produce. But BMW M will be trusting CS owners to realise that the combination of 10 per cent more torque, 35 kg less weight and some additional Cup-tyre-derived traction delivers this new M4 a claimed 0-100 kph time of under 4 seconds: 3.9- to be exact. That is just a tenth off that of an M4 GTS, and exactly what’s claimed for both the Mercedes-AMG and the Alfa Romeo.

Carbon-ceramic brakes are optional but the sticky Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tyres are standard.

You install yourself into what seems like the same comfortable, thickly bolstered sports seat of the M4 Competition when you first get into the CS, identical, but for an illuminated logo on the backrest, a change to the upholstery theme and manual rather than motorised adjustment. The lightweight door skins and centre console on either side of you immediately bring the GTS to mind, conjuring a pleasing extra layer of performance purpose for the cabin that the "alcantara" suede trims for the fascia, transmission tunnel, roof and door consoles echo.

The manual, single-zone climate control system, slightly thin-sounding (but respectable) audio and Professional Media infotainment system combine to strike just the right balance between a sense of apparent hardcore purpose and pragmatic real-world usability. This is a car you’d happily drive every day, that has the convenience features you want of a modern German performance machine, but that’s deliciously light on the luxury trimmings.

Stereo aside, it’s also much better to listen to than a normal M4. The car’s quad exhaust system is the same as the one on the M4 Competition but, shorn of some sound deadening and with the CS’s new engine management in play (and a redline extended to 7 600 rpm) the CS sounds much more gritty and real than a standard M4. Not as angry as the titanium-piped GTS, granted; not even close.

But the improvement in the appeal of the car’s sonic character is plain. And it helps no end that BMW M’s lightweight door skins remove the stereo system’s door speakers that might otherwise broadcast the "engine sound modulation" so many object to in the normal M4. You still get some electronic augmentation of the engine sound but, at low and medium revs and under load, the perfectly synthesised digital warble of a normal M4 is replaced by a much more detailed, spiky and authentic engine rumble that you’ll instantly warm to on digging into the accelerator pedal travel.

Straps for door handles and a 'feature-lightened' infotainment system help strip the cabin of a bit of weight.

BMW gave us a couple of hours only in its new car, on roads around the Nürburgring Nordschleife made busy by crowds gathered for the annual ‘N24’ endurance race. But even here, with no opportunity to really test the car up to the limit of its dynamic abilities, two things were clear: that the additional performance served up by the CS’s engine is probably even greater than BMW’s claims suggest, and that the extra grip and body control created by its chassis not only makes the CS a more composed and precise handling car than a normal M4, but also one very at home on the road.

As in any other M4, the CS allows you to select from Comfort, Sport and Sport+ modes for its adaptive dampers, power steering and engine calibration; to choose between 3 shift modes on the standard 7-speed ‘M DCT’ twin-clutch gearbox; and between 2 dynamic stability control modes besides the obligatory DSC-off setting. Whichever mode you’re in, there’s a small-but-tangible improvement in contact patch feel through the car’s steering and a perceptibly sharper initial handling response as you feed the wheel through about 45 degrees either side of dead-centre.

New wheels, tyres aid steering feedback

We’d defy anyone who didn’t know as much to believe it after a drive in the CS, but the car’s extra steering feedback and body control come entirely from its new forged wheels and Cup tyres (the former an inch smaller in diameter up front, the latter getting a widened section at the rear, just like the GTS) and from redeveloped software calibrations for its dampers, power steering and active differential.

There are no hardware changes to the M4 Competition Pack’s springs, dampers or anti-roll bars here. And yet back-to-back testing against an M4 Competition revealed that the CS turns in even more instantly and keeps its body more level during hard cornering, with better vertical body control and less float over really testing lumps and bumps, but without any greater harshness of ride, shortage of compliance or evidence of bump-steer.

The CS is usable every day where the GTS is not and it has the right amount of power and torque to compete with newer rivals.

The CS’s handling balance is similar to that of its sister car. Where the engine’s greater mid-range torque allows you to give the driven axle more to do as you unwind the steering and exit a bend, those cup tyres reply with even greater adhesion, stability and traction than a regular M4 has. The CS enters bends flat and fast, then, and exits them even quicker with a composure unknown to the M4 Competition car.

You’d never believe a set of rims and tyres and a new adaptive damper tune could achieve so much. I suspect both a Mercedes-AMG C63 S and an Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio have more adjustable handling; but I also suspect neither would produce the same needle-threading sense of handling accuracy as the CS has, which is its own reward on the road.

And I’d be very interested to compare the torque curve of the CS’ 3.0-litre straight six to that of the M4 Competition because the new car feels much stronger through the middle of the rev range. This is probably where the M4 most needed attention, the standard car just beginning to feel a touch weedy compared to the very quickest of its rivals – at least until its motor starts spinning beyond 5 000 rpm.

But the CS doesn’t feel weedy. At all. That extra torque has a big impact on its in-gear pace between 3 000 and 5 000 rpm, and there’s quite a lot more acceleration on tap where you really need it as you power away from corners and along slip roads.

Should you buy one?

Indicative pricing suggests that it will slot perfectly in the middle between an M4 Competition and M4 GTS.

When you stand back and digest the car’s abilities, you’re likely to conclude that the M4 CS feels more like a refined and perfected M4 than a radically altered one. It handles better, sounds better, goes harder and still works very well on the road. But it feels familiar, and in that respect, it’s probably notionally closer to a "Competition Package Plus" than a "mini-GTS" because its dynamic character and handling balance are broadly unchanged.

That’s good news is you like the regular M4, of course. For others, it’s probably too early to say whether BMW’s premium of R426 364 for the M4 CS is worth paying; for R1.8 million, the floating voter should accept nothing less than the best sports coupe in the class.

So this could be the car to put the M4 back on the top of its particular performance niche – but it’ll take a meeting with an Mercedes-AMG C63 S and an Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio to establish it for certain. For now, it feels too close to call.

Quick Specs

Price: R1 838 500

Engine: 6-cyl in line, 2 979cc, twin-turbocharged petrol

Power: 338 kW at 6 250 rpm;

Torque: 600 Nm at 4 000–5 380 rpm

Gearbox: 7-spd twin-clutch automatic;

Kerbweight: 1 580 kg;

0-100 kph: 3.9 sec

Top speed: 250 kph

Interested in buying a BMW M4?

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Honda CR-V 1.5T Executive (2017) Review

The 5th-generation CR-V was launched in the South African market in 2017 and while our initial impressions were favourable, Honda's latest family car has much tougher competition than its predecessor. We sample the first turbopetrol CR-V to see what it offers…

We like: Excellent ride, generous specification, super space and practicality, high levels of comfort

We don’t like: Lack of in-gear punch, more expensive than rivals

Alternatives

The multiple award-winner: The 2016/17 #CarsAwards category-winning Volkswagen Tiguan is a fantastic piece of kit with a gem of an engine, but you will need to fork out a bit extra to be able to match the Honda in terms of spec. It's particularly good looking too, provided you specify the R-Line body kit.
Korean top-seller: A popular model in the segment is the Hyundai Tucson 1.6 Turbo 4WD Elite and it's easy to see why it sells so well. A good powertrain combines well with excellent on-road manners – and don't forget about Hyundai's benchmark 7-year mechanical warranty.
Good value for money: Recently-upgraded Ford Kuga is the most affordable car in this group, but its chances may suffer because of #Kugagate fallout.
Turbodiesel option: You can get an all-wheel-drive Toyota RAV4 in this price bracket and we're impressed with its refinement and practicality. However, it's a turbodiesel.

Compare the Honda CR-V to the Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0 TSI 4Motion R-Line and the popular Hyundai Tucson 1.6 Turbo 4WD Elite here

5 generations of Honda CR-V

Thankfully Honda has bucked the trend of offering big alloy wheels on low profile rubber

We believe it is highly unlikely that when Honda launched its first CR-V family car/compact SUV back in 1995, the Japanese brand anticipated how successful the model would become. Back then SUVs weren't all the rage and Honda had a reputation for making smaller passenger cars such as the Civic, not mud-pluggers. But, as most of us know all too well, the market suddenly shifted and SUVs have become extremely popular. Suffice to say Honda's CR-V is one of the established players in the segment and has a terrific reputation for excellent packaging and practicality while offering superb ride refinement.

However, the vehicle market moves quickly these days; model lifecycles are shorter to ensure a fast throughput of newer, better products. Honda recently adopted turbocharged petrol powertrains, whereas its competitors have been on that bandwagon for some time already. However, engine technology is just one small aspect of the overall package, and the CR-V has many talents.

How does it fare in terms of…

Packaging & Design?

Android Auto and Apple Carplay functionality, as well as heated seats are two of our favourite features

This is where the Honda CR-V really shines. In a feat of engineering, the Japanese firm has ensured that while the new CR-V is physically smaller than the previous generation model, the family car's interior space is fractionally bigger. Honda SA claims there's a 90 mm increase in second-row legroom, while shoulder room grows both front and rear. The luggage bay is bigger too at (a claimed) 522 litres, with 1 084 litres available if you fold the seats flat, and we mean properly flat.

It's not a bad-looking vehicle either, with trademark Honda cues all around. The frontal view is imposing thanks to enlarged LED lights, but once you step inside the cabin it becomes abundantly clear that Honda has put in a real effort when it comes to design and ergonomics. There's a huge emphasis on comfort and ease of use, and while there's initial hesitation for certain buttons, it quickly becomes second nature.

Our test unit was the second-from-top Executive CVT, which comes with a generous helping of standard features. These luxury mod-cons include leather upholstery, an Apple CarPlay/Android Auto-compatible 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, enhanced audio setup, 2 USB ports (for front and rear passengers), an 8-way electrically adjustable driver's seat, 4-way adjustable front passenger seat with front seat heating as standard. Front and rear parking sensors are offered as well as a heating function for the electric side mirrors, automatic windscreen wipers and there's a leather-trimmed steering wheel too.

Nice-to-have features include a panoramic sunroof, automatic levelling headlights, start/stop button and keyless entry. Previous generation Hondas tended to be meagrely specced, not so this derivative…

There's a multifunction steering wheel with gearshift paddles. In the background, a partial digital display

Given the CR-V's family car packaging, its safety specification is particularly important and, to that end, 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, Agile Handling Assist (AHA), Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Hill Start Assist (HSA), Driver Attention Monitor and ISOfix child seat mounting points are provided. If you feel you'll need more in the way of autonomous safety systems, then best you look to the Exclusive model, which features a Collision Mitigation Braking with Forward Collision Warning, Road Departure Mitigation with Lane Departure Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Following and Lane Keeping Assist.

Performance & Efficiency?

A turbocharged petrol engine makes its debut in the Honda CR-V, but its in-gear acceleration is not its strong point

For the first time ever, a turbocharged petrol engine makes its way into the CR-V. It's the same powerplant as that found in the Honda Civic and the motor's outputs are credible. With peak outputs of 140 kW and 240 Nm from a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine, the Honda CR-V offers adequate performance… at least it seems so "on paper". In reality, however, it's a different story as the power delivery is not all that convincing. Sure, you can cruise along nicely at the speed limit and enjoy the (supple) ride, but when it comes to overtaking slower traffic on the national highway, things go a little awry.

You'll need to have your wits about you and make use of the "shift" paddles to keep the engine in the sweet spot if you intend to surge past slow-moving traffic. You will just need to turn up the volume of the (excellent) audio system to drown out the unpleasant engine note/drone of the (gearless) continuously variable transmission as the engine repeatedly hares to the redline and then gradually reduces revs…

In terms of efficiency, Honda claims a fair 7.0 L/100 km, but in reality, the vehicle consumes a fair bit more than that. Perhaps it was the middling torque output of the engine combined with the CR-V's not insubstantial kerb weight (of around 1 600 kg), or the fact that our test week was characterised by dense traffic conditions, but we couldn't get the Honda's consumption to slip under 9.0 L/100 km.

Ride & Handling?

The Honda CR-V has always boasted excellent refinement and this 5th generation model continues this tradition

The new CR-V's boasts an all-new suspension setup that is claimed to deliver excellent ride quality. Does it deliver? Absolutely. While we're not enthusiastic about the 1.5T's in-gear shove (or lack thereof), we're quite happy to cruise along and feel the CR-V soak up each and every little rut in the road, the latter of which will be more (if not most) important for the overwhelming majority of family car buyers. It's a resoundingly solid car to drive and the lack of road noise, thanks to excellent insulation, is also commendable.

This vehicle features all-wheel drive on demand, which sends power to the rear axle if conditions deteriorate. While we didn't take our test unit onto any 4×4 tracks, we felt that the system was perfect for keeping things stable on gravel or on really wet roads. The CVT, meanwhile, may blunt driver engagement, but it works well in an urban environment in combination with an accurate 'wheel to deliver a relaxed drive.

Honda CR-V – price in South Africa (October 2017)

The 1.5T Executive CVT AWD derivative retails for R584 900, which includes a 5-year/200 000 km warranty, 5-year/90 000 km service plan and 3-year AA Roadside Assistance. Service intervals are set at 15 000 km for 2.0-litre derivatives and 10 000 km for 1.5-litre derivatives.

Verdict

The Honda CR-V does have its drawbacks, the big one being lethargy in cut-and-thrust driving conditions, but the positives far outweigh the negatives. It's a superbly-made product, drives with exceptionally polite manners and the spaciousness/practicality mean you can easily load it up for a family breakaway. Honda was in danger of losing its unofficial most-built-to-last tag because some of its recent products felt made to cost. We know cost-cutting is the norm, but not at the expense of hurting your brand image. However, this new CR-V rights many of the wrongs. It's a spectacular return to form and an excellent proposition in the family car market. Admittedly you are paying for this privilege as it's one of the more expensive offerings in its class, but if you're willing to fork out extra, it's well worth it.

Want to buy a Honda CR-V?

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3 Reasons Why Kia Picanto 1.0 Style is #CarsAwards Finalist

What makes the Kia Picanto 1.0 Style a strong contender in the Budget Car category of the 2017/18 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards programme – powered by WesBank? Read on…

Kia introduced the 3rd-generation Picanto earlier this year with a fresh, modern look and a newly designed interior. Not only is the new Picanto more refined than the model it replaces but its ride quality, interior material quality and practicality has improved too.

3 reasons why the Picanto 1.0 Style is a #CarsAwards finalist…

1. Attractive pricing and warranty

The new Kia Picanto 1.0 Style is attractively priced at R159 995 while offering a comprehensive 5-year/unlimited km warranty. Service plans are, however, optional. Furthermore, Kia is well-established in South Africa with strong dealership support across the country and its latest products, including the Picanto, show the brand’s intentions to move upmarket and produce stylish vehicles, which means you get good value at this price point.

2. Modern interior and fair specification

The Picanto 1.0 Style offers nice-to-have features such as 14-inch alloy wheels, front electric windows, air conditioning, Bluetooth functionality, USB/Aux connectivity and a multifunction steering wheel that’s adjustable for rake and reach. The driver's seat is also adjustable for height. In terms of safety, a total of 2 airbags are fitted as well as featuring ABS with EBD. ISOfix child seat mounts are also fitted.

3. Practical urban runabout

With its improved practicality, the Picanto’s luggage bay is larger at 255 litres and includes a 2-step boot floor that can be lowered by 145 mm to access more space or to keep valuable items hidden out of sight. The rear seats are split in a 60:40 configuration and with the seats folded down, space increases to a useful 1 010 litres. Clever retractable cup holders and a movable armrest are also fitted.

With its naturally-aspirated 1.0-litre engine offering 49 kW and 95 Nm of torque, fuel consumption is good with a claimed figure of 5.0 L/100km, making the Picanto a practical daily runner.

Watch our video review of the new Kia Picanto below!

Have Your Say: Complete our survey and WIN!

Do you own a Picanto? 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!

Which cars are the Picanto's rivals in #CarsAwards?

The 2017/18 #CarsAwards finalists: Budget Car category

Compare the Picanto's specs with those of the Suzuki Ignis 1.2 GL & VW Take Up!

Interested in buying a Picanto?

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Peugeot Introduces GFV Program in SA

Peugeot has launched a Guaranteed Future Value (GFV) and buy-back program in South Africa, encouraging owners to upgrade their vehicles more often without incurring additional costs.

Peugeot currently offers 3-year/100 000km warranty on all its products but now also offer a Assured Future Value financial agreement called Motion Finance from WesBank, giving customers the opportunity to drive a new Peugeot vehicle without additional costs.

Francisco Gaie, Managing Director of Peugeot Citroën South Africa said ““The South African market is undergoing a shift that is line with international trends where we see customers shifting from vehicle ownership to mobility. Although it is in its infancy here in South Africa we can already see this trend developing and obtaining traction. Our Guaranteed Future Value ensures that our customers can drive a new Peugeot vehicle every few years without incurring unforeseen or additional costs”.

The agreement guarantees customers the future value of their vehicles. Earlier this year, Gaie acknowledged concern pertaining to Peugeot’s ‘trade-in value perceptions’ and assured that he would rectify this perception going forward.

“We believe our GFV program is a step in the right direction and will change the perceptions on Peugeot’s trade-in value.” he said.

The GFV program will initially be rolled out for the Peugeot 208 Active and will be introduced to the rest of Peugeot’s range thereafter.

“We are positive that customers will welcome the introduction of the Guaranteed Future Value programme which will encourage them to replace their vehicle at the conclusion of their 3-year warranty” Gaie added.

How does it work?

Choose your Peugeot 208 Active
Select your repayment terms i.e. 24 months, 36 months, 48 months
Agree on maximum mileage (available options 40 000 km to 80 000 km)
Agree on a deposit, or 0% deposit and monthly payment to suit your budget.

When the Motion Finance agreement comes to an end and provided that the all the conditions of the agreement have been met, the customer can choose one of the options below.

Renew – You return your Peugeot as per the guaranteed buy-back program and renew your Motion Finance agreement on a new Peugeot model of your choice.
Return – Return your Peugeot and end your Motion Finance contract.
Retain – You keep your Peugeot and re-finance it at the guaranteed buy-back value. (Note: This option is not part of the Motion Finance agreement, but you will rather enter into a traditional finance agreement under new terms and conditions.)

Peugeot also offers a service plan (Peugeot Protect Plan) to ensure the guaranteed buy-back of your vehicle. The vehicle will be maintained and restored for an agreed period from damages resulting from everyday wear and tear in return for a fee. This will ensure the guaranteed future of the vehicle. Furthermore, the Peugeot Protect Plan is not limited to models purchased on the Guaranteed Future Value program, but also covers all new and used Peugeot transactions.

Buy a Peugeot on Cars.co.za

BMW i8 Coupe (2017) Review

Alternatives:

Why is it important?

How does it fare in terms of…

Powertrain technology?

Performance?

Ride and handling?

Interior comfort and practicality?

Safety Features

Pricing and warranty

Verdict

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Update: New Audi A7 Sportback Revealed [w/Video]

Audi has taken the wraps off its new A7 Sportback featuring a striking design and a lavish interior. Let’s take a closer look.

Design changes

What’s under the bonnet?

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Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet in SA (2017) Specs & Pricing

Following the arrival of the stylish E-Class Coupe earlier this year, Mercedes-Benz now welcomes the E-Class Cabriolet to its local E-Class range. Herewith specification and pricing for the new E-Class Cabriolet.

Engine Outputs

Key features

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet – Price in South Africa (October 2017)

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3 Reasons Why Suzuki Ignis 1.2 GL is #CarsAwards Finalist

What makes the Suzuki Ignis 1.2 GL a strong contender in the Budget Car category of the 2017/18 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards programme – powered by WesBank? Read on…

3 Reasons Why Suzuki Ignis 1.2 GL is #CarsAwards Finalist

Have Your Say: Complete our survey and WIN!

Which cars are the Ignis' rivals in #CarsAwards?

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Participate in our Ownership Satisfaction Survey: Great prizes up for grabs

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Overall Service Experience

Reliability (By Model Type)

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Land Rover Discovery (2017) Video Review

The new Land Rover Discovery makes a big statement. The bulky design is gone and the new, sleeker look isn't to everyone's liking. Has it lost its off-road capabilities along with its old look? We send it on an off-road course full of mud and hills to see if it can still cope with the rough stuff.

Searching for a used Discovery?

BMW M4 CS (2017) Launch Review [with Video]

What's it like?

But that’s only half the picture…

New wheels, tyres aid steering feedback

Should you buy one?

Quick Specs

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Honda CR-V 1.5T Executive (2017) Review

The 5th-generation CR-V was launched in the South African market in 2017 and while our initial impressions were favourable, Honda's latest family car has much tougher competition than its predecessor. We sample the first turbopetrol CR-V to see what it offers…

Alternatives

5 generations of Honda CR-V

How does it fare in terms of…

Honda CR-V – price in South Africa (October 2017)

Verdict

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Want to buy a Honda CR-V?

3 Reasons Why Kia Picanto 1.0 Style is #CarsAwards Finalist

What makes the Kia Picanto 1.0 Style a strong contender in the Budget Car category of the 2017/18 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards programme – powered by WesBank? Read on…

3 reasons why the Picanto 1.0 Style is a #CarsAwards finalist…

1. Attractive pricing and warranty

2. Modern interior and fair specification

3. Practical urban runabout

Have Your Say: Complete our survey and WIN!

Which cars are the Picanto's rivals in #CarsAwards?

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Peugeot Introduces GFV Program in SA

Peugeot has launched a Guaranteed Future Value (GFV) and buy-back program in South Africa, encouraging owners to upgrade their vehicles more often without incurring additional costs.

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