Hillclimb Shootout: Aston Martin Vantage N430 vs BMW M240i vs Jaguar F-Type 400 Sport
In one of our most ambitious video projects yet, we worked with the city of Cape Town to close an incredible road in the farmlands beyond the city. It's always been one of our favourite pieces of tarmac to test cars and now we had it all to ourselves.
We lined up 8 high-performance cars, fired up our very own race-ace Ashley Oldfield and staged three races – this is the third head-to-head featuring the BMW M240i with M Performance Parts, the Jaguar F-Type 400 Sport and Aston Martin Vantage N430.
For a recap of the first race – Fiesta ST200 vs Renault Clio RS Lux, click here
For a recap of the second race – Volkswagen Golf 7.5 GTI vs Toyota 86, click here
In a battle of the rear-driven coupes, we have the outsider in the form of the BMW M240i, with performance parts. The bad boy Jaguar F-Type 400 Sport with its crackling exhaust pipes and dropping looks. Finally, the old-timer is back in the form of the Aston N430 – an enhanced (again) Vantage with a V8 growl that will have the flesh on your arms jumping for joy.
Who will be fastest on the up and down-hillclimb? The result is a lot closer than you'd expect.
Look out for the last video in our #CarsRaceDay series, which will be released exclusively on our YouTube channel over the next few weeks. Subscribe and be the first to see the videos as they drop.
Bakkie Comparison: Nissan Navara vs Ford Ranger Fx4 [with Video]
We recently compared Nissan's Navara 2.3 4×4 LE Automatic and Ford’s new Ranger Fx4 4×4 Automatic to determine which one is more deserving of your attention and ultimately, your money. This comparative review will help you decide which is the better buy.
At a glance
Nissan Navara 2.3 4×4 Auto
Ford Ranger 3.2 Fx4 Auto
Price:
R597 900 (with leather and heated seats)
R608 900
We Like:
Solid engine performance, fuel efficiency
Styling kit, Sync3 infotainment, powerful
We Don’t Like:
Poor infotainment system, rough engine note at high revs
Thirsty engine, turbo lag
What are we comparing?
Both the Navara and Ranger are hugely capable and these particular derivatives are closely matched in terms of specification.
Earlier this year, Ford introduced the stylish new Ranger Fx4 to its lineup, which slots in under the range-topping Wildtrak derivative. Wearing black design details seen on the grille, side mirrors, door/tailgate handles, fog lamp bezels, roof rails, side steps, sports bar and Panther Black 17-inch alloy wheels, the Fx4 offers added visual appeal to what is still essentially a Ranger 3.2 4×4 XLT. For the image-conscious 4×4 double-cab bakkie buyer, the Ranger Fx4 is a treat for the eyes…
But, perhaps the new Nissan Navara 2.3 4×4 double cab automatic will pique your interest, too. The new Navara is far from ugly and it’s R11 000 cheaper than the Fx4 when fitted with leather upholstery and heated front seats. Apart from the visual enhancements found on the Fx4, both vehicles are quite evenly matched in terms of specification and capability. Is there merit in forking out an additional R21k for the Ranger Fx4 or is the Navara the more sensible purchase? We put them to the test…
How do they fare in terms of…
Comfort and safety features?
The Ranger Fx4's main interior attraction, apart from its styling, is its SYNC3 infotainment system.
In terms of interior specification, both vehicles are equipped with similar features such as dual-zone climate control (automatic air conditioning), cruise control, front park distance control with a reverse-view camera, electric windows and electrically adjustable mirrors and a multifunction steering wheel. The Navara, as tested here, is fitted with optional leather upholstery, heated front seats, and an electrically adjustable driver’s seat. These added comfort features are definitely worth the extra spend.
The key differences, however, relate to interior execution. The Ranger Fx4 has the more attractive interior… it's steering column is adjustable for rake and reach (the Navara's only for angle), there's more attention to detail and although the Nissan's also spacious inside, the Ford offers slightly more leg- and knee room than its rival.
The Fx4 is also equipped with Ford’s latest Sync 3 infotainment system, which is Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible and features integrated navigation. The updated 8.1-inch touchscreen has a chunky interface and is very easy to use. Furthermore, a pair of USB ports is availed for charging and/or connecting devices.
The Navara's interior is solidly built, but the smaller, more finicky infotainment system was a letdown.
The Navara's cabin features a few more metallic accents and in terms of soft-touch surfaces, there is a little to choose between the bakkies. However, the Ford's (primarily digital) instrument binnacle is more car-like than the Navara's (admittedly neat) cluster and the latter's touchscreen system pales in comparison with the Ranger's unit.
Yes, the Japanese bakkie's infotainment system offers a navigation function, but the screen is frustratingly small and the interface is not as easy to use as the Ranger's. It also has an annoying glare in bright light which decreases its legibility and, when the reverse camera view is displayed, it's a largely blown-out (white) image with only the guidelines being easily visible. It’s a pity, because Nissan offers commendable infotainment systems on its other products. A USB and auxiliary ports are provided.
In terms of safety features, both bakkies have 7 airbags, ABS with EBD, stability control and traction control. The Navara is additionally equipped with brake assist.
Engine performance?
The Ranger Fx4 is powered by Ford’s familiar 3.2-litre turbodiesel engine that produces 147 kW and 470 Nm of torque and is coupled to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Although this engine suffers from a fair degree of turbo lag when you plant your foot flat, when the power arrives, it comes with a surge that results in brisk acceleration (by bakkie standards). The engine, although audible in the cabin, is relatively refined and the smooth-shifting transmission is well-matched to this engine.
Buyers will appreciate the powerful performance offered by this Ranger Fx4, but will have to be willing to compromise when it comes to fuel efficiency. Ford claims 9.0 L/100km and during our test, the Fx4 returned an average fuel consumption figure of 11.5 L/100 km, which is middling.
The Navara's engine is less refined high in the rev range but it's more fuel efficient than the thirsty Ranger.
As for the Navara, you’d be forgiven for thinking that it’s powered by a larger turbodiesel engine because it performs so strongly on the road and in the dirt. It’s a 2.3-litre turbodiesel unit that punches above its weight with 140 kW and 450 Nm of torque and for the most part, it’s a really good engine. It is, however, much noisier higher in the rev range and exhibits an agricultural engine note under harder acceleration, which is something that buyers will have to live with.
The 7-speed transmission is good too and marginally better and smoother than the Ranger’s automatic ‘box. Buyers considering the Navara will also be happy to know that it’s more frugal than its Ranger Fx4 rival. Nissan claims 7.0 L/100 km, but the trip computer returned figures in the region of 10.0 L/100km during our test.
Ride quality?
The Ranger and Navara are closely matched in terms of on-road ride quality and both vehicles offer a comfortable ride on tar. But when loaded, we discovered that the Ranger actually delivered a smoother ride on tar compared with the Navara. Although the Navara’s controversial rear 5-link coil suspension has helped to improve overall rear-end stability and to a degree, alleviate unladen "bounciness", we are not convinced it’s significantly superior to a conventional leaf spring setup. When driven over rougher surfaces, however, the Navara’s suspension seems to settle quicker than the Ranger's, making it slightly more forgiving, especially when driving on gravel roads.
The Navara's suspension is more forgiving in the dirt, but the Ranger's ride when laden proved to be superior.
During our test, we subjected both vehicles to a heavy load and tested them on the same off-road route. The results were surprising. When laden, the Ranger proved to offer the best ride and maintained its composure well. The Navara, however, felt more unsettled with the heavy load and the ride was not as smooth as we expected it to be. Having said all that, if you consider that many owners will rarely engage in serious offroad driving and that these vehicles will spend most of their time on tar, then we think the Ranger and Navara are quite evenly matched in terms of on-road ride quality; the Ranger is simply more comfortable with a heavy load on the back.
Off-road capability?
Both the Ranger and Navara are hugely capable when taken offroad and buyers won’t be disappointed by what these vehicles have to offer and during our test, neither of them skipped a beat. The Ranger has better ground clearance at 237 mm than the Navara with 229 mm and both vehicles have a braked towing capacity of 3 500 kg.
The Ranger and Navara are strong offroad performers, but the Ranger's early delivery of power makes off-roading a cinch.
In the case of the Navara, the mechanical transfer case is easily operated using a knob where the driver can select between 2H, 4H and 4L, depending on the terrain. The Navara is also equipped with an active brake limited slip differential system (ABLS) that manages power delivery and wheel braking between the front and rear axles, which, in conjunction with the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system, ensures the best possible performance in tough terrain.
Similarly, the Ranger Fx4 is equipped with an electronic rear differential and the driver is also easily able to switch between 2H, 4H and 4L using the knob next to the transmission lever.The offroad capability of the Ranger and Navara is impressive. However, during our test, we found the Ranger’s off-road performance to be marginally better, partly because of the laden ride quality and the fact that Ranger's powertrain sustains momentum better, making it slightly more effective at tackling tough terrain.
Price and Warranty
The Ford Ranger 3.2 4×4 Fx4 automatic is priced at R608 900 and is sold with a 4-year/120 000km warranty and a 5-year/100 000km service plan. Service intervals are set at 20 000km.
The Nissan Navara 2.3 4×4 LE automatic is more affordably priced at R587 900 and is sold with a 6-year/150 000 km warranty and 3-year/90 000km service plan. Service intervals are set at 15 000km. If you opt for leather upholstery, which includes heated front seats the price comes to
We would buy the Ranger Fx4, but the Navara's 6-year/150 000km warranty can swing the buying vote.
Although these double-cab bakkies are closely matched in terms of specification and both offer impressive overall capability, we are of the opinion that the Ford Ranger 3.2 Fx4 4×4 automatic is the better buy compared with the Nissan Navara 2.3 4×4 LE automatic and here's why:
We feel that the combination of the Ranger Fx4’s added exterior visual appeal, better interior execution (not to mention slicker Sync 3 infotainment system) and overall packaging, justifies the R11k premium over its Japanese rival. Even though the Ranger is thirstier, its engine is quieter at high revs and its power delivery feels more linear than that of the Navara. The Navara, as specified, claws back with its seat warmers, the convenience of an electric driver's seat and the advantage of a longer warranty.
Furthermore, in terms of off-road ability, there is very little that separates these vehicles. For buyers who will be loading up their bakkies regularly, the Ranger (according to our test) delivers a more composed ride under heavy load. As urban-based family vehicles, however, both bakkies offer admirable ride quality on tar and although the Navara may hold a slight edge in this regard (rear passengers will especially appreciate the added ride comfort) it is a testament to the Ford's resolved design (its on-road refinement is still impressive) that despite the age disadvantage of the Ranger platform, the newer Nissan cannot eclipse the all-round abilities of the venerable Ford.
Watch Part 1 of our Ranger vs Navara video comparison:
Watch Part 2 of our Ranger vs Navara video comparison:
Nissan Micra Active Launches in SA (2017) Specs & Pricing
Nissan has introduced the Micra Active in South Africa with interior and exterior styling upgrades. Here's what the Micra Active has to offer…
The current Nissan Micra is long in the tooth now and an all-new Micra was shown at the Paris Motor Show last year and will arrive on local shores in March 2018, so there is much to look forward to from the all-new Micra. In the meantime, Nissan has spruced up the current model and it’s now called the Micra Active and it comes with enhanced exterior styling and higher levels of interior specification, offering buyers more value-for-money.
The Nissan Micra Active is powered by a 1.2-litre petrol engine with 56 kW and 104 Nm of torque and mated to a 5-speed manual transmission.
“One of our priorities at Nissan is to build vehicles that offer attractive features at a competitive price. We believe the new Nissan Micra Active with its significant enhancements sets new standards in the Lower B Hatchback segment” says Nissan Group of Africa Managing Director of Marketing and Sales, Xavier Gobille.
What’s changed
The grille of the Micra Active now has a chrome V-motion motif, much like other Nissan products.
The grille, bonnet, front fenders, headlamps and both bumpers have been updated. The Nissan badge now sits in a chrome-extended V-shaped motif familiar from other Nissan models. On the inside, the Micra Active benefits from updated upholstery featuring a new design. The centre console takes on a new look as does the instrument cluster.
Key features include manual air conditioning, front electric windows, Bluetooth and audio streaming, steering adjustment, folding rear seats and a 12V socket.
Safety features include ABS with EBD, brake assist, 2 airbags and ISOFIX child seat mounts.
Optional features
An infotainment touchscreen with navigation is offered at no additional cost for the launch period. Better get down to your nearest Nissan dealer then…
Buyers can equip the Micra Active with a reverse camera, tyre pressure monitoring system and rear parking sensors.
The first Micra Actives sold in South Africa will be equipped with an optional touchscreen infotainment system with navigation at no additional cost to the customer for the duration of the launch period. The navigation operates TomTom mapping with live traffic information and Bluetooth hands-free music streaming, USB port and an iPod/iPhone-capable built-in music hard drive is also included.
A Trendsetter Pack can be fitted to the Micra Active and this pack includes features such as smoky black alloy wheels, chrome exhaust finish, rear spoiler and mudguards.
Nissan Micra Active – Price in South Africa
Nissan Micra Active – R159 900
The Nissan Micra Active is sold with a 3-year/90 000 service plan and a 6-year/150 000 km warranty.
Lexus has updated its CT 200h compact hybrid hatchback with new exterior and interior styling as well new equipment and options. Take a look at what changed on the Lexus CT 200h.
Hybrids are not very popular in South Africa and the Lexus CT 200h barely has a sales pulse on the local market. Last month, only 1 CT 200h was sold locally. It has however experienced more success in global markets where more than 300 000 have been sold since its introduction in 2011.
Nonetheless, Lexus has now updated the model with enhanced styling and an improved equipment offering.
Chika Kato, Chief Engineer of the CT 200h, summed up the impact of the changes: “The CT 200h has been refreshed and revitalised by enhancing its progressiveness. Its updated design is more emotional and sporty, making it the ideal premium hybrid compact car for younger customers who enjoy spirited driving, but care about the environment.”
What’s changed?
A larger 10.3-inch infotainment screen is now fitted and buyers have more interior trim and colour options to choose from.
The front-end has been reworked with the daytime running lights now positioned the single-projector headlights while retaining their arrowhead shape.
The grille now features a new mesh pattern while the previous integrated bumper section dividing the upper and lower grille has now been removed. Metallic grey fog light bezels are now set in sharp-edged triangular surrounds.
“We have pursued a new look by reversing the position of the LED headlight unit and DRL compared to the previous model. The result is a look that’s more impactful than before. Moreover, the “L” motif of the DRL strengthens the Lexus signature,” said Tetsuo Miki, Chief Designer of the CT 200h.
At the rear, the CT 200h benefits from new LED L-shaped taillights with the indicator lights moved to the lower edge of the taillight housing. The tailgate now features a new garnish while the lower bumper has been reshaped and now has a metallic silver and black finish.
The CT 200h can also be equipped with new 10-spoke 16-inch alloy wheels with a combination machined and dark metallic finish.
New interior trim and colour options are on offer and the CT 200h is now equipped with a larger 10.3-inch Lexus Display Audio screen.
Lexus CT 200h – Price in South Africa
Lexus CT 200h S – R519 100
The CT 200h is sold with a 4-year/100 000 km warranty, 8-year/195 000 km battery warranty and a 4-year/100 000 km service plan.
We have driven the South African-bound Renault Alaskan double-cab bakkie in Slovenia and came away quite impressed with the Navara-based newcomer. Here are 5 things that stood out for us about the newcomer…
The Alaskan will join a now crowded leisure double-cab segment in the second half of 2018 where it will compete for sales against local favourites such as the Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger, Nissan Navara, Volkswagen Amarok and the forthcoming Mercedes-Benz X-Class.
Take a look at 5 things we like most about the new Renault Alaskan!
1. Exterior styling
The Alaskan adopts a powerful and muscular stance. Much of its presence can be attributed to its front-end design where its chrome-accented grille and large diamond-shaped Renault logo make a bold statement. The Renault-inspired C-shaped lighting motif seen in the LED daytime running lights and fog light surrounds gives the Alaskan some familiar French flair.
We think that the Alaskan has got the looks to compete with its rivals. What do you think?
2. On-road comfort and refinement
In our brief experience with the Alaskan, we found its on-road comfort and refinement to be a major highlight. Although the Alaskan adopts the same 140 kW/450 Nm 2.3-litre twin-turbodiesel engine found in the Navara, Renault has tuned it to offer higher levels of refinement, even when the revs climb. More than this, unlike the overwhelming majority of bakkies in the market, the Alaskan adopts a similar 5-link rear coil suspension setup as the Navara, one which is claimed to suppress vibrations and enhance ride quality to a class-leading level. We found this claim to be credible as the Alaskan provided impressive comfort on varied surfaces including Slovenian roads, which are very similar in quality to the roads in South Africa. We can’t wait to test the Alaskan on local roads.
3. Off-road capability
The Alaskan is well-equipped for offroading and it proved itself in dire conditions in Slovenia where it faced rain, mud, slippery grass, raging rivers and a host of obstacles.
A total of 3 driving modes are at the driver’s disposal and can be quickly activated by turning dial in the cabin. 2WD is used under normal driving conditions with power sent to the rear wheels. In more demanding terrain, high-ratio 4-wheel drive (4H) can be engaged "on the fly" at speeds up to 60 kph and you can remain in 4H at speeds up to 100 kph, making it ideal for optimum traction on gravel or in slippery conditions.
In addition to this, low-ratio 4-wheel drive (4LO) can be used to further maximise traction in severe terrain. An electronic limited-slip differential provides increased stability and a mechanically-controlled, self-locking rear differential will direct equal power to the rear wheels when traversing tough obstacles. Hill Descent Control and Hill Start Assist provide further reassurance.
4. Practicality
The Alaskan we drove was equipped with a nifty C-channel tie-down system that comprises fixed rails with 4 sliding hooks that allow you to effectively tie-down all types of cargo. More so, the tailgate can withstand weights of up to 500 kg and the Alaskan has an unbraked towing capacity of 3 500 kg, which is on par with the best-in-segment offerings.
5. Comprehensive infotainment system
The Alaskan we tested came fitted with an average-sized 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with a CD player, Bluetooth capability and satellite navigation. We found the system easy to use and it offered a handy 360-degree camera display that employs a quartet of external cameras to produce an all-around view of the vehicle's surroundings, which helps you avoid obstacles while off-roading or when parking.
The system is far better and more legible than the system fitted in the new Navara and we hope that it will be offered in South Africa.
South Africa loves hot Golfs. Look no further than the fact that 60% of local Golf sales are made up of GTI and R variants as proof! Seemingly, not even a pricetag of around R650k (without options) can deter buyers. Following its recent round of updates and a slight uptick in power, is this the ultimate Golf?
We like: Sizzling performance, quality cabin, daily driving practacility
We don’t like: Occasional suspension harshness
Alternatives:
A deadly enemy from within: Sibling brand Audi offers the S3 Sportback quattro for similar money which is a particularly big problem as the Audi badge holds considerably greater prestige and it also packs the slightly higher output engine. Nevertheless, the Golf outsells the hot Audi by a considerable margin, undoubtedly due to the VW network's greater footprint, but also because its more extroverted appearance (and image) is arguably more in line with its target audience. Then there's also the fact that the VW offers a few more goodies as standard.
Something more hardcore: If you want your hot hatch to be a bit more, err… brash, then consider the Ford Focus RS. This rorty machine was designed and set up by a team that prioritised driving fun and extroverted dynamics. It is considerably more expensive and probably not faster in the real world, but you do get exclusivity.
Do you own a Volkswagen Golf? We'd like to hear from you! By completing our in-depth Ownership Satisfaction Survey, you will be contributing to next year's Cars.co.za Consumer Awards – Powered by WesBank. Click here to have your say!
What's changed?
Biggest visual changes have happened along the front bumper and with the LED headlamps.
For the eagle-eyed Golf R afficionado the changes to the updated model will be immediately noticeable, particularly the revised bumpers and LED head- and taillamps. Look closer and you'll also spot that the exhaust outlets are now positioned wider apart, making the car appear more squat from the rear. There are also new mirror housings in a chrome matte finish (optionally in Carbon). 19-inch Spielberg alloy wheels are standard but you can also get the appropriately titled "Pretoria" wheel for R8 100.
Inside, the latest Golf R benefits from all the recent Golf 7.5 updates and the smart 9.2-inch Discover Pro (with Gesture Control) info-tainment system is offered as an option for R20 200. In the case of the R specificially, the Active Info Display is standard as is a lap timer.
So, overall, a few nice tweaks here and there but what you're most likely eager to know about is the performance. The new Golf R has slightly more power from its 2.0-litre turbopetrol (213 kW – up from 206 kW) and is now fitted with a slick new 7-speed dual-clutch transmission that features a launch control mode as standard.
The Good
It's very, very fast
Because South Africa is seen as a hot-weather country, Volkswagen currently doesn't allow the Golf R's engine to unleash all of the 220+ kiloWatts that is available elsewhere, but the 213 kW it does have, along with the 380 Nm of torque, certainly endows the R with explosive performance. With Launch Mode engaged one can rocket to 100 kph in 4.6 seconds, with the Golf squatting on its haunches as the all-wheel drive system calculates how to best launch the uber-Golf to the horizon. Have a look at our video below to see just how much faster a Golf R is against the Golf GTI in a quarter-mile dash.
It's not only a robot-racer, though. The engine is very flexible, with that maximum torque figure being available across a wide rev range that spans from 1 850 to 5 300 rpm. Coupled with the slick new gearbox, and a multitude of driving modes that allow the driver to finetune the responsiveness on offer, the Golf R is truly a performance machine for whatever driving mood you may happen to be in.
And yet, it's not a highly strung motor that feels unrefined in "normal" driving. It's always refined, and when pottering around will even return excellent fuel economy. Volkswagen claims a combined cycle figure of 6.9L/100 km.
As practical as ever
The Golf R's cabin strikes a fine balance between practicality, technology and a premium ambience.
For all its heady performance capability and drivetrain complexity, the Golf R remains a comfortable, practical daily runner. Using the same 5-door bodyshell as all the other Golfs means that the boot and passenger space is similar, too. We say "similar", because the boot is slightly smaller at 343L (versus 380L for a GTI). Nevertheless, fold down those rear seats and you can still fit most of today's lifestyle equipment in there without much hassle.
Furthermore, rear passenger space is excellent, and those occupants seated in the front are treated to very comfortable (and supportive) Sports seats that also offer heating. The driving position is spot-on, courtesy of Volkswagen's usual generously rake/reach adjustable steering and height-adjustable driver's seat. Leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof and auto lights/wipers are standard.
An entertaining drive
With the optional Adaptive Chassic Control system fitted, the driver can scroll through 5 driving modes.
With all-wheel drive as standard and a firmer ride from the get-go, the Golf R feels markedly different to its famous GTI sibling when driven hard. It feels more "hunkered-down", grippier and because of a marked lack of body roll, quite sportscar-like in the corners. Fitted with the optional Adaptive Chassis Control system (R12 700), the driver can adjust the throttle responsiveness, steering and firmness from behind the wheel, but it's always on the firm side and becomes progressively more "aggressive" as one moves through the various modes. It's also worth noting that, when Sport mode is selected, the infotainment screen displays "racy" items such G-forces and power outputs.
It is also possible to switch out ESP completely with the Golf R, which is increasingly a rarity.
The new 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox incorporates a Launch Control function. The 'box is lightning fast and feels very robust.
Overall, the Golf R's initial response to being pushed hard into a corner will be predictable understeer, but because it can channel power to the rear when there's little traction at the front, the experienced driver can extract good and entertaining adjustability from the R by using the throttle pedal. It is perhaps also due to this ability (shifting power to the rear), that the steering feels purer and more informative than on cars (and Golfs) where all the power goes to the front wheels. It's a car with such depth to its dynamic abilities that it requires a dedicated driver to extract its full potential. The process of discovery is, however, very rewarding.
It's an impressive performance particularly because not so long ago fast all-wheel drive hatches were one-trick ponies that could only go fast in a straight line but fell short of providing true entertainment on the twisty bits. The Golf R is not like that, it's fast and entertaining everywhere.
The Bad
Ride occasionally too firm
There aren't many chinks in the Golf R's armour, and given its overall balance of performance, driving fun and practicality, we feel inclined to forgive it its slightly firm ride. On European roads it will probably never be a problem, but on South Africa's (in places) deteriorating road infrastructure, it can prove to be uncomfortably firm. That said, most cars that it competes with are in a similar boat (or worse).
Pricing and Warranty
The VW Golf R currently (September 2017) sells for R647 300 without options and the price includes a 3-years/120 000 km warranty and 5-years/90 000 km service plan. It is very comprehensively specified as standard but options include 19-inch Pretoria alloy wheels (R8 100), the Discovery Pro info-tainment system with satellite navigation (R20 200), Blindspot monitor with rear traffic alert (R3 500), adaptive cruise control with automated emergency braking (R5 000) and the Adaptive Chassis Control system with driving profile selection (R12 700).
Verdict
Bruiser in a tailored suit… The Golf R looks sophisticated but packs a hard punch.
For around R650 000 (without options), the Golf R is undoubtedly pricey. Nevertheless, within the context of its abilities and rivals, it makes more sense than one may think. This is probably the ultimate expression of the fast Golf formula to date, offering nearly all the practicality of a GTI, but with even more dynamic appeal, greater performance and a cabin that knocks most of the competition for a six. On paper (and in the metal) this latest evolution looks like a subtle improvement, but the reality is that the latest Golf R does everything "better than expected", and most importantly, delivers greater driving engagement than what we've become used to from this type of car.
Toyota has updated the specification of its popular RAV4 compact SUV in South Africa. Herewith the details…
The RAV4 is one of the best-selling compact SUVs in South Africa and Toyota has now updated the specification of the RAV4.
Buyers looking purchase the GX derivatives will now have the convenience of cruise control at their fingertips and the steering wheel now features improved tactile quality with the inclusion of leather upholstery. Buyers can also opt for a new Red metallic exterior colour.
RAV4 GX derivatives are now equipped with cruise control activated using the steering wheel-mounted controls.
The RAV4 model lineup remains unchanged with 3 engine options and 2 trim levels on offer, including GX and VX.
Engine options include a 107 kW / 187 Nm 2.0-litre petrol engine that can be mated to either a 6-speed manual transmission or CVT. A 2.5-litre petrol engine with 132 kW and 233 Nm of torque is also offered in VX guise with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Buyers looking for a diesel-powered RAV4 can opt for the 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine with 110 kW and 340 Nm of torque and it’s available with in GX guise with a 6-manual transmission and in VX guise with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Toyota RAV4 – Price in South Africa
RAV4 2.0 GX 6MT – R 374 500
RAV4 2.0 GX CVT – R 387 200
RAV4 2.2D GX 6MT – R467 500
RAV4 2.2D VX 6AT – R 552 400
RAV4 2.5 VX 6AT – R 518 200
All RAV4 models come standard with a 3-year/100 000 km warranty and 5-year/90 000 km service plan.
Facelifted Ford Kuga Launches in SA (2017) Specs & Price
Ford has introduced the facelifted Kuga SUV in South Africa with a fresh design and enhanced feature specification. Take a look at specification and pricing for the new Kuga.
There’s a new Ford Kuga in town and it has just been launched in South Africa. The facelifted Kuga introduces a new exterior and interior design as well as Ford’s latest SYNC3 in-car connectivity system and improved safety specification. The Kuga is available in either Ambiente, Trend or Titanium trim grades
"We are thrilled with the new Kuga offering, with stunning new design inside and out, smart technologies, fuel-efficient yet powerful engines, and five-star safety, it's a vehicle that will stand out for our customers," says Tracey Delate, General Marketing Manager, Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa.
What engines are available?
The Kuga range includes 2 petrol engines and 1 diesel engine. The previous 1.6-litre engine is no longer offered.
There are 2 petrol engines and 1 diesel engine that now powers the Kuga. The 1.5-litre EcoBoost engine offers 110 kW/240 Nm of torque for the front-wheel drive derivative equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission.
A more powerful version of this engine offers 132 kW and is offered on both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive derivatives equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
The petrol offering is headlined by a 2.0-litre EcoBoost engine with 177 kW and 340 Nm of torque and is exclusively offered in all-wheel drive guise with a 6-speed torque-converter automatic transmission.
The only diesel engine available is a 2.0-litre turbodiesel with 132 kW and 400 Nm of torque and is offered in all-wheel drive only and features a dual clutch automatic transmission.
What’s changed in terms of design?
SYNC3 makes its way into the Kuga and integrated navigation is anoption.
The latest Kuga wears a large upper trapezoidal grille along with a lower grille that’s complemented with slim headlights and fog lights. The taillights, tailgate and twin exhaust system have been redesigned and the Kuga is now available with a new range of alloy wheel designs ranging in size from 17- to 19-inches in size.
As for the interior, the Kuga now features an updated cabin with enhanced storage in the centre console, rear tray tables, rear air vents (Trend and Titanium only) as well as an electronic parking brake. The Kuga’s steering wheel and air conditioning controls have also been updated to improve ease-of-use.
Kuga's design has been improved and an electronic tailgate is now offered.
The tailgate is now electrically operated for added convenience and all automatic Kuga derivatives feature paddle-shift controls for manual gear changes.
SYNC3 is offered in the facelifted Kuga via an 8-inch touchscreen and all audio and connected smartphones can be controlled with conversational voice commands. SYNC3 is offered as standard on Trend and Titanium derivatives and integrated navigation is optionally available across the range. SYNC3 also offers Apple CarPlay and Android AutoT.
Safety features
Standard safety features on the facelifted Kuga include 7 airbags, ABS, Electronic Stability Program (ESP), trailer stability function, hill launch assist and rollover mitigation. ISOFIX child seat mounts are also standard.
The latest Kuga also introduces an enhanced version of Ford’s Active City Stop with low-speed collision mitigation and avoidance which is offered as part of the Driver Assistance Package on Trend and Titanium derivatives. The package also includes features such as adaptive cruise control, blind spot information system, lane departure warning, lane keeping aid and advanced active park assist.
Perpendicular parking functionality is also offered on the Kuga to help drivers locate parking spaces alongside other cars and parallel to the road and will steer into spaces while the driver controls the throttle and brakes. The facelifted Kuga has a 5-star Euro-NCAP safety rating.
New Ford Kuga – Price in South Africa
Ford Kuga 1.5 EcoBoost Ambiente 6MT FWD – R368 800
Ford Kuga 1.5 EcoBoost Ambiente 6AT FWD – R381 900
Ford Kuga 1.5 EcoBoost Trend 6MT FWD – R406 400
Ford Kuga 1.5 EcoBoost Trend 6AT FWD – R427 900
Ford Kuga 2.0 TDCi Trend 6AT AWD – R483 900
Ford Kuga 2.0 EcoBoost Titanium 6AT AWD – R497 900
Ford Kuga 2.0 TDCi Titanium 6AT AWD – R506 900
A 4-year/120 000 km warranty is standard as well as a 3-year/unlimited km roadside assistance and 5-year/unlimited corrosion warranty. Petrol Kuga derivatives are sold with a 4-year/80 000 km service plan with service intervals set at 20 000 km while the diesel derivatives have a 5-year/90 000 km service plan with service intervals set at 15 000 km.
The Automobile Association (AA) has warned that the fuel price is likely to increase substantially on the back of stronger international fuel prices and a slow weakening of the Rand.
"The Rand has (recently) shown reasonable strength against the US dollar," the AA said in response to unaudited mid-month fuel price data issued by the Central Energy Fund (CEF). "However, this is not enough to counter rampant increases in the international prices of fuels, which have risen by up to 6% in the past two weeks."
The current data predicts a month-end price hike of up to 35 cents a litre for petrol, 33 cents for diesel, and 29 cents for illuminating paraffin.
"Without the benefit of Rand strength, the increase per litre would have been up to 50 cents in some cases," the Association concluded."We are now seeing what we believe is the beginning of some Rand weakness… the current picture may deteriorate by month-end."
Toyota offers new warranty extensions to its customers
Toyota South Africa has announced two new warranty offerings for customers who own Toyota products. Here's what they entail…
Toyota Genuine Unlimited Warranty
This is applicable to Toyota models that are still covered by the 3-year/100 000 km manufacturer’s warranty. This product is offered to customers whose vehicles have not skipped more than one service interval within the manufacturer’s warranty. Below are some of the benefits of this warranty:
The policy offers the same level of cover as the manufacturer’s warranty as it is a genuine Toyota product, specifically designed to provide a seamless extension of the manufacturer’s warranty.
No limit on mileage – the extension options are either 6- or 8-years/unlimited mileage on all petrol and diesel Toyota vehicles.
On hybrid vehicles, the only option is a 10-year/unlimited mileage extension – covering all hybrid componentry, including the hybrid battery.
The policy also provides for replacement (set of shock absorbers, clutch kit and a single instance of brake disk skimming during the period as a result of wear or tear.
Vehicle failure or malfunction as a result of wear and tear on engine, transmission and drivetrain up to 250 000 km is also covered.
Toyota Genuine Pre-Owned Warranty+
This is applicable to vehicles outside of the manufacturer’s warranty, but which are not older than 7 years or have mileages of less than 200 000km. This product is offered to customers whose vehicles have not missed a maximum of two (non-consecutive) service intervals. Below are some of the benefits of this warranty:
Cover for a period of 2 years or up to 250 000km – this effectively means a Toyota vehicle could be covered by warranty for up to 9 years.
The policy offers the same level of cover as the original manufacturer’s warranty as it is a Toyota product, specifically designed to reinstate a Toyota backed warranty on vehicles older than 3 years.
The Genuine Pre-Owned Warranty+ includes RoadCover and 24/7 Roadside Assistance.
Repairs will be done exclusively by a Toyota dealer with Toyota Genuine Parts.
It is important to note that cars older than 5 years covered by either of these genuine warranties will continue to qualify for Toyota Value Service (capped labour rate and discounted parts) at local Toyota dealers. The products afford customers the same level of cover as the manufacturer’s warranty for an extended period. These warranties are not available to Quantum Ses'fikile and Dyna models.
How much do they cost?
Pricing structure for Toyota Genuine Unlimited Warranty is as follows:
Petrol model with engine capacity up to 2.0-litre: pricing starts at R3340 or R155.15 (over 24 months) for 6 years/unlimited kilometres; R5 230 or R251.57 (over 24 months) for 8 years/unlimited kilometres.
Petrol model with engine capacity over 2.0-litre/1.2 Turbo: pricing starts at R7 870 or R388.86 (over 24 months) for 6 years/unlimited kilometres; R10 290 or R511.54 (over 24 months) for 8 years/unlimited kilometres.
Diesel models up to 3.0-litre: pricing starts at R6 995 or R343.72 (over 24 months) for 6 years/unlimited kilometres; R9 730 or R482.76 (over 24 months) for 8 years/unlimited kilometres.
Diesel models over 3.0-litre: pricing starts at R10 460 or R522.48 (over 24 months) for 6 years/unlimited kilometres; R16 815 or R846.76 (over 24 months) for 8 year/unlimited kilometres.
All hybrid models: pricing starts at R11 000 or R547.58 (over 24 months) for 10 years/unlimited kilometres.
Pricing structure for Toyota Genuine Pre-Owned Warranty+ (2 Year/Max 250 000km) is as follows:
Petrol model with engine capacity up to 2.0-litres: pricing starts at R4 830 or R231.66 (over 24 months).
Petrol model with engine capacity over 2.0-liters/1.2 Turbo: pricing starts R9 640 or R478.78 (over 24 months).
Diesel models up to 3.0-litres: pricing starts R10 465 or R521.17 (over 24 months).
Diesel models over 3.0-litres: pricing starts R11 815 or R590.52 (over 24 months).
All hybrid models: pricing starts R10 705 or R533.50 (over 24 months).
How to apply for the extra warranty?
Both the Toyota Genuine Pre-Owned Warranty+ and Toyota Genuine Unlimited Warranty are available through any Toyota dealership, or you can contact the Toyota Genuine contact centre (086 012 3329). Customers have the option to purchase this product at full premium or on monthly instalments. Online quotes are available at www.toyota.co.za/warranty or on the MyToyota Mobile Application (downloadable from Play Store or App Store).
