Renault's popular compact family car/crossover is getting a new look for 2018. The facelifted Captur was shown at the Geneva Motor Show earlier in the year and is expected to arrive in South Africa in the third quarter of 2017.
The Renault Captur is Europe’s best-selling B-Segment crossover, has lit up the sales charts locally and, in dCi Dynamique guise, was a finalist in the compact family car category of the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, powered by Wesbank. The refreshed model will build on the personalisation possibilities with more exterior colour combinations as well as 36 different interior combinations.
What's Changed?
Improved styling and interior quality will ensure that the Captur remains a popular choice in the compact crossover segment.
A new lighting signature (for the front and rear lights) has been added and certain models will feature full LED headlights. Other design tweaks include an upgraded front grille and a chrome strip that runs through it. The front and rear aprons have also been given skid plates in order to boost the Captur's crossover kerb appeal.
A new Platine Grey roof option will be offered and a fixed glass roof can also be fitted if you wish. Renault has also gone to work on the interior, improving overall fit and finish and higher quality materials have been used to enhance perceived interior quality.
Renault will also reportedly offer a new premium Initiale Paris derivative that will feature a chrome grille, sequential LED indicators, metallic grey front and rear skid plates and 17-inch alloy wheels. A number of colours will be offered on this derivative including exclusive Amethyst Black. The interior features Nappa leather upholstery which is also found on the dashboard and steering wheel.
The engine offering will likely remain the same and will include a 0.9-litre, 3-cylinder turbopetrol engine with 66 kW and 135 Nm of torque, as well as a more powerful 1.2-litre turbopetrol with 88 kW and 190 Nm of torque. The 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine offers 66 kW and 220 Nm of torque.
We will keep you updated as more information regarding local specification and pricing becomes available.
This is The Journey: Namibia, the first episode in a series of videos from Cars.co.za that will showcase journeys across Africa and how cars help create unforgettable memories along the way. We hope you enjoy the journeythrough Namibia as much as we did.
Last year, Cars.co.za embarked on an epic adventure in Namibia. We explored the vast Namib Desert, scaled mountains in the famous Damara Granite moon landscape and surfed waves along the Skeleton Coast. Given the harsh conditions, this journey wouldn't have been possible without a tough, rugged and extremely capable 4×4.
For this iteration of The Journey, the Isuzu KB Double Cab 4×4 LX Automatic proved to be invaluable. We negotiated tricky mountainous terrain and drove on some of the largest sand dunes in the world without incident, which is a testament to the KB's 4×4 capability. The Isuzu KB performed exceptionally well in tough conditions and provided comfort for the Cars.co.za team and crew and we would like to extend special thanks to Isuzu South Africa for the support.
Also, The Journey: Namibia wouldn't have been possible without the hard work and dedication of Cars.co.za Journalist and Photographer, Gero Lilleike, who spent a considerable amount of time and effort to make this video a reality.
We hope you enjoy the first episode of The Journey: Namibia and look out for many more exciting adventures to come. Enjoy!
Back in September 2016, we published spy images of the BMW 8 Series grand tourer that's set to rival Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe. BMW has now officially teased the new 8 Series luxury sports coupe and it will be shown as a design study at the upcoming Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este on the banks of Lake Como in Italy. A production model is expected for introduction in 2018, with a convertible version expected in 2019.
Spy images credit: S. Baldauf/SB-Medien
The lavishly-styled BMW 8 Series Coupe has been under development for some time now and this month we will see a design study of the model which is expected to be shown at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este in Italy later this month. In the meantime, BMW has teased the 8 Series Coupe with a single image showing its rather intriguing silhouette.
“The BMW 8 Series Coupe will build on our tradition of luxurious sports coupes and add a genuine dream car to our line-up – a slice of pure automotive fascination,” says Harald Krüger, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG. “The 8 Series Coupe will underpin our claim to leadership in the luxury segment. I can tell you today that this will be a true luxury sports coupe.”
Photographic evidence of the forthcoming BMW 8 Series, courtesy of our German spy photographer, is perhaps more revealing. The spy images show a heavily disguised, yet attractively designed two-door Coupe.
The 8 Series grand tourer will be bigger and more luxurious than the 6 Series Coupe, which has now been discontinued. The new 8 Series will be the longest car in the BMW stable and it will be based on the current CLAR architecture used for the 7 Series and the latest 5 Series.
In terms of engines, the line-up has yet to be confirmed, but sources indicate that the 8 Series could be powered by three different engines including a 6-cylinder, 3.0-litre turbocharged engine, a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 and a mighty 6.6-litre twin-turbocharged V12. An M8 performance version is being considered too…
The Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este takes place on 26 May 2017 and we will keep you updated with the latest information regarding the 8 Series Coupe as soon as it becomes available, so stay tuned.
We were given the first crack at the new Jaguar F-Type 400 Sport, a 2017 limited model. The catch was, we had to report to Knysna and race it in this year’s Jaguar Simola Hillclimb.
Okay, it wasn’t really a catch, but still, it’s not your average first drive of a new vehicle. The F-Type 400 will only be on sale for 2017 and has a few extras that caught the eye of many a spectator at the event. The easiest bits to notice are the 400 badges on the front splitter and rear bodywork. This references the 14 kW hike in power the 400 Sport gets that takes it to 400 horsepower (294 kW). Acceleration to 100 kph remains the same, top speed is limited to 275 kph and you get the choice of rear or all-wheel drive.
Inside line
Yellow stitching and 400 badging on the bottom of the steering wheel are unique to the 400 Sport.
Jump inside and there are more details to look at. Yellow stitching runs along the dash as well as the doors and steering wheel. Special sports seats have been installed with ‘400 Sport’ embossed in the headrests. It’s a luxurious place to sit with soft touch leather and aluminium combining well. The updated infotainment system from the F-Pace has been installed and is standard with navigation and a Meridian sound system. Specific to the 400 Sport is the GoPro Rerun app that will connect to your GoPro camera and overlay data from the car onto your videos.
Power struggle
400 denotes 400 horsepower or 294 kW. A 14 kW increase over the V6 S.
The 400 Sport is only available with a V6 engine but beefed up with some extra vooma. There’s a sneaky exhaust button on the centre console that will clear the throat of the F-Type and let the full rasp of the V6 be heard properly. It’s not as brutal or crackly as the V8, but it’s smoother and more tuneful to listen to. The supercharger also provides lightning fast throttle response without the ultimate kick of power that a turbocharger deploys.
Warm-up lap
We picked up the F-Type 400 Sport at George airport, complete with just 411 km of mileage on the clock. The hour drive to Knysna was all we would have to acclimatise to the rear-driven V6 before sending up the hill at full tilt. The choice of rear or all-wheel drive makes an interesting quandary. If you were buying the V8, there would be no doubting that the all-wheel drive car is the one to have, but in this V6, rear-wheel drive makes more sense. The chassis copes with the power better and it isn’t as tail happy as the V8 when you put the power down.
Our model had been especially specced for the Hillclimb with carbon ceramic brakes, a carbon fibre roof and a fixed rear wing. It’s about as race-ready as you can spec the 400 Sport.
Race run
Turn 2 requires a touch of brakes and then being as early on the power as you dare.
After a sighter run up the hill in a pedestrian 53 seconds, it was time to start pushing the 400 Sport’s boundaries. Two runs later and we were in the 47-second range, in a huge tussle with a more powerful, torquier and lighter BMW M3 Competition Pack. The F-Type loses 8-tenths of a second to the M3 in the 0-100 kph battle, but we were making up time in the corners.
The F-Type showed impressive turn-in at turn one, a right handed flick that’s done at nearly 140 kph. It never missed the apex there and then, when tasked with handling a boot full of throttle on the way out, delivered no more than a small slide from the rear end. The slightest amount of countersteer and the rear would hook up again and continue sprinting up to turn 2.
With the temperature in the front and rear tyres better, turn 2 is all about braking late and getting the front into the apex early and back on the power as soon as you can. The bumps in the braking zone make it harder than it sounds but the carbon ceramics bite hard when prodded and throw a tonne of weight onto the front end, allowing the tyres to dig into the tarmac and provide maximum grip. Quick turn-in is key, but the real time is gained by jumping on the power early here. You can’t see the exit, but you have to take a guess and leap of faith that you’ll still be on the black stuff when you straighten the wheel. You carry this bravery in the form of extra speed all the way up the hill until the final section of corners.
Heading out of turn 2 on the way up to the esses. Nothing to do here but flatten the throttle.
The esses as they’re called. Be as brave as you can through the interleading right, holding it as tight to the right as possible before dabbing the brakes and swinging it left through the first part of the esses. Being hypercritical of the F-Type, it might not change direction as quickly as liked, probably down to its portly 1.7-tonne kerb weight but it does remain neutral and easily controllable when swung from one side to the other. From here, it’s flat out, plotting the path of least resistance to the finish.
Summary
In the class final, we lost out to the M3 by a mere 2 tenths of a second, running a 47.5 to the M3’s 47.3. Not bad, considering the deficit we had to make up off the start. It was great fun, with the F-Type proving a blast to push hard. It feels like a great sports car on the circuit, but when we get it back to test properly, we’ll see if it’s just as good on the road.
The final section of the climb, the esses can make or break your run. Be smooth and be wary of oversteer as you crest the finish.
The F-Type has worn a ‘handle with care’ badge in the past, especially the V8 R models that prove an absolute handful in rear-driven format. This V6, with a touch more power (400 Sport example) feels like it may just be the sweet spot in the range if you don’t have the bucks for an AWD R or an SVR.
That said, with the spec in this 400 Sport, it comes in at 1.7 million (including options), which isn’t all that far from the AWD R at R2 million and the SVR at R2.3 million.
Watch the Cars.co.za 2017 Jaguar Simola Hillclimb highlights video below:
The Mazda CX-5 has become one of the major sellers in the South African family car/compact SUV market. Now there’s an all-new model in showrooms and we had a chance to drive it at the launch in Johannesburg.
After a slow start to local sales in 2012, the Mazda CX-5 has become progressively more popular, carving itself a hefty chunk of the medium SUV segment. Mazda has taken note of this and, with the all-new model, enhanced it and improved it rather than delivering something entirely new.
Sleeker design
This red colour has been specifically designed for the CX-5 and is 20% more vivid than before.
The exterior design is still easily distinguishable as a CX-5, but there are new details that have been added to make it look more modern and improved. The 3D grille at the front is sharper and more angular, making the old one’s flatter face look bland and innocuous in comparison. The rear lights have been squashed and squeezed to create a beady, almost sliver look to the rear. They are so small it actually makes the rear end look much bigger than it is. The side creases are also less rounded and create a lower and faster look.
Range and engines
Mazda SA has chosen to introduce the same model range as its previous winning formula. There is the addition of one extra model, a mid-spec petrol auto.
As is the way with Mazda, the petrols are all naturally aspirated, with a choice of a 2.0-litre and a 2.5-litre model. The 2.0-litre is good for 121 kW and 210 Nm of torque. This engine is available in Active and Dynamic trim levels as well as manual and auto (6-speed). The 2.5-litre petrol delivers 143 kW and 257 Nm of torque and is only available in Individual spec, which is a further level up from Dynamic. It’s also only available with the automatic gearbox.
Mazda is still pushing the same Skyactiv engine range we saw on the old CX-5. New engines could come in 2018.
The 2 diesel models are still available, but the entry variant (Active) no longer suffers the power and torque deficit it did previously. Both engines now develop 129 kW and 420 Nm of torque and are equipped purely with automatic gearboxes. The top spec 2.2 turbodiesel Akera model gains all-wheel drive.
Interior and space
The improved refinement within the cabin appears to be the most significant update to the new CX-5. The materials all feel soft touch with the addition of aluminium surrounds on the switches and the odd veneered wood panel. The infotainment screen is faster and has a much higher resolution screen, but still lacks some of the modern connectivity features that competitors have – such as built-in apps. The Instrument cluster dials and digital display are much crisper and the heads-up display no longer resembles a ‘90s Cressida digital speedo.
The interior feels solid and has more luxury touches like the aluminium surrounds, improved infotainment screen and new heads-up display.
Rear legroom is good and the backrests have a 2-stage recline feature for added comfort. The luggage bay remains a bit on the small side for the segment, but at 442 litres it’s at least marginally bigger than the old model. Individual and Akera models get an electrically operated tailgate too.
Ride and refinement
It’s hard to fault the work the engineers have done at Mazda to reduce the noise within the cabin. Wind noise is drastically reduced and engine and road noise is diminished too. The larger wheeled models do provide a bit of road roar on rougher tarmac however.
The G-Vectoring system that was introduced on the Mazda3 last year has also had an effect on the CX-5’s handling. At speed, it requires fewer inputs to keep it straight and has a more confident turn in. It does feel quite a bit lighter than the outgoing model, which some drivers may not like.
Refinement and NVH levels have been improved. The ride is still firm and sporty, which could be tiresome on long journeys.
As for the ride, Mazda has continued to make the CX-5 out to be a sporty SUV. It’s still quite stiffly sprung and handles well when faced with corners and enthusiastic inputs. On the long road, it can still feel a bit too stiff and jiggly but it’s always sure-footed and stable, no matter the surface underneath.
Summary
The new Mazda CX-5 remains good value in terms of specification and style. Practicality isn't bad and there's a wide range to choose from.
The new Mazda CX-5 doesn’t break any new ground in terms of practicality, driving experience or design. It does however, continue to offer a good combination of all those things in a stylish package at an attractive price. The 2.0-litre naturally aspirated derivatives make up the bulk of the sales and its price point and value is hard to beat as is its engine. The new model improves bugbears like the wind noise and vibrations and further adds a luxury feel to the interior.
Mazda’s service plan and warranty are also particularly attractive. The CX-5 is sold with a 3-year/unlimited km warranty as well as a 3-year/unlimited km service plan. Mazda has also shown to have excellent after-sales backup, finishing in the top five of the Cars.co.za Consumer Satisfaction Survey.
Derivative line-up and pricing
2.0L Active FWD Manual R379 900
2.0L Active FWD Auto R391 900
Renault Sandero Stepway 66 kW turbo Dynamique (2017) Review
Renault has facelifted its popular budget-car-with-a-crossover-flavour and we got the opportunity to review it. Does the facelifted Sandero Stepway (in Dynamique trim) make enough of an impact to sustain the model's sales success story?
We like: Interior space, standard features, great warranty
We don’t like: Engine needs to be pushed to deliver optimum performance, not as fuel-efficient as hoped
Alternatives
Bigger engine required? The Volkswagen Polo Vivo Maxxis the most expensive one of this trio and is the fastest, thanks to a bigger engine. It offers decent build quality and space, but can't quite match the Stepway in terms of features. It will probably be replaced by a newer version before the end of 2017.
Tough as nails! The Indian-built Toyota Etios Cross(over) was recently updated and its overt cladding makes it look a combination of strange and unresolved. Still, it offers a reasonable experience and the peace-of-mind that comes part and parcel with Toyota ownership is a big drawcard.
Not needing a crossover? The Ford Figo might not be acrossover vehicle, but its generous rear legroom is a big bonus. The sedan has a big boot.
New grille and daytime running lights are the main changes on the front of the Renault Sandero Stepway
New vehicles sales statistics attest that the Renault Sandero is a firm favourite in the budget sector. It just does so much right – an attribute that led to it being named the Budget Car of the Year in the 2015/16 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards. Fast forward 2 years and a new-look Sandero range is on sale in South Africa… there is only 1 hatchback derivative, while the popular Stepway baby crossover is available in 2 levels of specification. Suffice to say the Stepway has been a great success for the range and it's the derivative we're evaluating here.
What's new? Well, the Renault Sandero Stepway has gained some mild visual upgrades in the form of tweaks to the grille and lights (the addition of daytime running lights is particularly welcome). Inside, some ergonomic issues were addressed, such as the front window switches that have been moved from the centre console to their more traditional location in the door cards. What's more, there's a new infotainment system with satellite navigation, lifted straight from the Renault Duster and Kwid.
Interior has not changed dramatically. Window switches have moved to their more traditional location, by the window.
How does it fare in terms of…
Performance & efficiency?
The engine has not changed in the new-look Renault Sandero Stepway. It's still the 0.9-litre 3-cylinder turbocharged mill that we're familiar with. Pushing out 66 kW and 135 Nm, this motor's outputs sound acceptable on paper when compared to its rivals. Fuel economy is rated at 5.4 L/100 km, but in reality, you're going to struggle to get close to that. On a normal commute during which we drove on a combination of open road, gridlock traffic and suburban roads, we could only manage 7.9 L/100 km.
Another thing we noticed was that the little engine needed to be pushed to get the best out of it. It's okay if you're pottering around, but if you want to keep pace with traffic, be sure to counter the small amount of lag with mild flexes of your right foot. With the engine delivering optimum shove around the 3 000 rpm mark, you'll find the Stepway more eager around that mark. What's really nice about the turbocharged engine is that it provides substantially more torque than its naturally aspirated rivals, meaning overtaking is less stressful and easier.
Thick, chunky rubber and good ground clearance means you can tackle gravel roads with ease
Ride & handling?
The Renault Sandero Stepway rides on high-profile 16-inch alloy wheels which, combined with a pliant suspension, provide a fair ride quality on the majority of road surfaces. Designed to suit Eastern European conditions, the Stepway feels right at home on poor quality roads and we noticed it was quite settled on gravel routes. Stepway specification means that ground clearance has been raised to a not-quite-city-car level of 193 mm. It'll effortlessly tackle speed bumps and if you need to, the Renault will mount pavements at will.
The steering is quick enough to execute urban manoeuvres but seems sufficiently weighted to make the Stepway feel substantial to drive. The rim is leather-trimmed in Dynamique spec.
Be it in town or on a wine farm, the Renault Sandero Stepway is comfortable in both environments.
Features & space?
This is a department where the Sandero really excels. Not only is there plenty of rear legroom, but the luggage space is larger than that of its rivals, meaning that for the money, the Stepway is one of the most practical cars in its class. We can thank the platform for this spaciousness as the Renault's wheelbase is longer than that of its immediate rivals. The claimed 292 litres of luggage space can be increased by folding down the rear seats, which are split 60/40, therefore you can still accomodate a rear passenger if you've loaded in a surfboard…
The loading area offers good capacity. Fold one section of the seatback down to increase space and retain space for a rear passenger.
To complete the Royal Flush, the Sandero's specification trounces anything in the segment, making it a particularly attractive offering. No other vehicle in the segment boasts satellite navigation, for example. Admittedly the unit fitted comes straight from the Duster and Kwid, but part sharing helps keep costs down. The base-spec Sandero Stepway is already well equipped, but Dynamique offers virtually everything you'd ever need from a "budget car" offering.
Standard features include cruise control, rear parking sensors, electric windows all round, electrically adjustable mirrors, a touchscreen infotainment system with USB/Bluetooth connectivity, remote central locking, remote audio controls and comprehensive trip computer. Indeed, there's no skimping, because the safety features are more than generous too. These include ABS with EBD, brake assist, an electronic stability programme, dual front airbags, side airbags, ISOfix mounts and hill start assist.
The Sandero Stepway features the same infotainment system as the Duster and Kwid. It's easy to use and the satnav features speed camera alerts.
Value for money?
With all of these standard features, a willing engine and fair ride quality, this review seems in serious danger of turning into one of those cheesy infomercials. But wait, there's more… The Renault's pricing is very competitive (as you'll see below and in comparison to its rivals), which suggests the Sandero Stepway will carry on being a popular and top-selling vehicle.
It's interesting to note that the Renault Sandero comes with a substantial 5-year/150 000 km warranty and 2-year/30 000 km service plan with service intervals set at 15 000 km.
Renault Sandero Stepway pricing in South Africa
The Sandero Stepway 66 kW turbo Dynamique retails for R189 900, which includes a 5-year/150 000 km warranty and 2-year/30 000 km service plan. Service intervals are at 15 000 km.
We predict the 2017 Sandero Stepway will carry on being a sales success for Renault.
Verdict
It's hard to fault the Sandero Stepway. It's an honest and affordable player in the budget segment, and our experiences with previous iterations were favourable too. Renault has been strategic in capitalising on the crossover market and making two Stepway derivatives available strengthens its appeal. The drivetrain and ride quality are good, but the specification levels and added practicality are the real drawcards. Who said cheap had to be small and spartan?
BMW has officially revealed its facelifted 2 Series as well as the revised M2. Get the details here…
BMW’s 2 Series Coupe and Cabriolet have gone under the knife with a number exterior and interior changes implemented to further enhance the offering. The potent BMW M2 Coupe has also received minor updates. Let’s unpack the detail.
What’s changed?
The BMW 2 Series has been enhanced with minor updates and 3 new exterior colours are on offer.
The exterior changes are minimal but nonetheless include a revised front-end that incorporates larger air intakes as well as a wider twin kidney grille. LED headlights will be offered as standard equipment and the LED taillights have also revised. BMW will also offer additional wheel designs along with fresh exterior colours including Mediterranean Blue, Seaside Blue and Sunset Orange.
As for the interior, BMW has enhanced the ‘quality feel’ of the interior by fitting a new instrument panel, which in our opinion, was long overdue. The latest generation iDrive operating system is also fitted and on derivatives with the Navigation Professional system, an 8.8-inch touchscreen display will be offered. Other cool features include a wireless smartphone charger and WiFi hotspot that can accommodate up to 10 devices. The air vent and glove compartment have been revised too and new trim strips with chrome detailing lift the interior ambiance even further.
Engine Choice
Changes to the M2 Coupe are hard to spot, but the potent 6-cylinder, 3.0-litre turbocharged motor remains.
The local engine lineup is likely to remain the same comprising of the 220i, 230i, 220d, M240i and the fantastic M2 Coupe.
The 220i makes use of a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine producing 135 kW and 270 Nm of torque while the turbocharged 2.0-litre engine in the 230i is good for 185 kW and 350 Nm of torque.
The 2.0-litre turbodiesel, on the other hand, offers 139 kW and 400 Nm of torque. The M240i has more grunt thanks to its 3.0-litre, 6-cylinder turbocharged engine with 250 kW and 500 Nm of torque.
The Cars.co.za Consumer Awards Fun Car champion, the M2, will use the same turbocharged 3.0-litre engine with outputs of 272 kW and 465 Nm of torque (500 Nm overboost), enabling a zero to 100 kph sprint time of 4.3 seconds before reaching a limited top speed of 250 kph. BMW is working on a more potent M2 CS due in 2018, which should be a scorcher if the M2 is anything to go by.
The facelifted 2 Series will launch in Europe in July 2017 and can be expected in South Africa later in the year. We will keep you updated as more information becomes available.
Now in its 8th year, the Jaguar Simola Hill Climb has become a firm highlight on the South African motorsport calendar. Watch our highlights video that details the tense battles for the King of the Hill titles in the high-profile single seater and sportscar, plus modified saloon categories…
The event was held in the picturesque coastal town of Knysna, on South Africa's southern coast. The 1.9-km ribbon of tarmac climbs through the Simola hills, servicing a hotel and private housing estate.
Once a year, the estate transforms into a car enthusiast's dream, hosting very special classic and modern cars, and drivers from all over the world – with American racing ace Randy Pobst joining the fray this year.
The field of 84 highly specialised cars was split into three categories this year: single seaters and sportscars, modified saloons, and road and supercars.
Cars.co.za road test editor Ashley Oldfield, who won the media challenge in 2016, competed in the road and supercar category at the wheel of a limited-edition Jaguar F-Type 400 Sport.
In this video, we follow the epic rivalries in two of those categories, featuring, among other cars, a 1989 Formula One car and two highly modified, incredibly powerful Nissan GTRs. This video would not have been possible without the help of Calvin Fisher, of OtherPeoplesCars.co.za – a huge thank you to him.
In much the same vein as the facelifted 2 Series, BMW has given its 1 Series hatchback a mild revision. Herewith the details for the facelifted BMW 1 Series.
The facelifted 1 Series hasn't changed much on the outside, but most of the improvements are to be found on the inside.
In the case of the 1 Series, the changes are even less pronounced than that of the 2 Series and the updated model benefits from 5 new wheel designs and 2 new exterior colours including Seaside Blue and Sunset Orange. There will also be 3 special editions on offer including the Edition Sport Line Shadow, Edition M Sport Shadow and the M140i Edition Shadow. These special edition models are differentiated with black headlight surrounds, a black frame for the grille and tinted front and rear light housings.
On the inside, the 1 Series benefits from a newly designed instrument panel, updated trim elements and a new leather upholstery variant. The latest iDrive operating system is fitted along with an 8.8-inch touchscreen display, which is offered in conjunction with the optional Navigation Professional system. Wireless charging and a WiFi hotspot is also fitted and can connect up to 10 devices if need be. The air vents and glove compartment also feature a new design and the front cup holders now have a sliding cover.
Engine choices
The M140i headlines the 1 Series range with 250 kW and 500 Nm of torque on offer from its 3.0-litre, 6-cylinder turbocharged engine.
The local engine range is expected to remain the same with variants including the 118i, 120i, 125i, 120d and the M140i.
The 118i is powered by a turbocharged 3-cylinder, 1.5-litre engine with 100 kW and 220 Nm of torque while 120i offers 135 kW and 290 Nm of torque from its 2.0-litre turbocharged engine.
The thrifty 125i with its turbocharged 2.0-litre engine offers 165 kW and 310 Nm of torque and the 120d develops 140 kW and 400 Nm of torque from its 2.0-litre turbocharged engine.
The range-topping M140i is fitted with a 6-cylinder, 3.0-litre turbocharged engine producing 250 kW and 500 Nm of torque.
The next-generation 1 Series is already in development, as revealed by recent spy shots, and the biggest change will be the switch from the current rear-wheel drive layout to a front-wheel drive configuration, which should increase cabin space considerably, particularly for rear passengers. The new 1 Series is expected to hit the market in 2019.
As for the facelifted 1 Series, it will launch in Europe in July 2017 and can be expected in South Africa later this year. Naturally, we will keep you updated as more information becomes available.
Audi's Q2 looks set to cash in on the flourishing premium crossover niche, but is its price simply to steep given its size and long options list? Let's find out…
We like: Cabin design/solidity, performance/economy balance, ride and handling, character
We don’t like: Less practical than some rivals, very pricey
Alternatives
More spacious and more affordable: The recently revised Mercedes-Benz GLA is a very real alternative with its improved interior finishes and desirable badge. In GLA200 form it is also more affordable, while offering more space.
The quirk master: Also fresh on the market is the brand new Mini Countryman. For similar money to this Q2, you can get the flagship Cooper S Sports-auto derivative, but you'll probably also want to delve into the extensive optional extras list. We're yet to test the new Countryman, but based on launch drive impressions, it's a desirable product that delivers greater performance and has more space to boot. Thirstier, however…
A sweet Swede:Volvo's V40 Cross Country may not be the newest product on the market, but still has considerable charm. It looks the part, is well made, boasts an extensive array of features and at this price level can be had with the powerful T5 AWD drivetrain, which gives it hot-hatch performance. The boot is small, though, the facia layout outdated and it can be quite thirsty. Also consider the much cheaper T4 version.
As the first product with the new-generation Audi grille treatment, the Q2 is the boldest offering from the brand in quite some time.
Audi's ever-expanding line-up recently gained a youthful, perhaps even eccentric offering, the Q2. Positioned to compete in the burgeoning premium, compact crossover segment, the Q2 targets affluent, younger buyers that place a priority on design appeal, quality and the latest technologies. This means that practical concerns such as spaciousness, versatility and value for money take a back seat to premium finishes, individuality and a vast… vast optional extras list.
How does it fare in terms of…
Design & Packaging
Designed to appeal to a young, urbanized and trendy clientele, the Q2 can be specified with a bewildering number of individualisation options.
Design appeal is a key USP for this Audi and whether you're in the "love it" or "hate it" camp, one thing is undeniable – the Q2 turns heads. Audi usually doesn't deviate too much from its design language, but the Q2 comes as a breath of fresh air. Perhaps Audi will surprise us and be similarly bold with other upcoming products – in which case the Q2 is merely a start in a new chapter – but given its clearly defined target audience and the demands that places on design, we suspect it will remain one of the more quirky offerings in the German brand's portfolio.
With its chunky, chiselled lines, short overhangs, new-look Audi grille and such details as the contrasting C-pillars (optional), the Q2 proved very easy on the eye for most of our testers. But if you want to make it pop, delving into the optional extras list is a requirement. A variety of wheel designs are on offer, and you can also get the S-Line sports package (R20 150), striking LED headlights (R14 450) and a panoramic sunroof (R15 000), as fitted to our test unit.
Neat, well-made facia can be specified with a multitude of options, including the digital Virtual Cockpit, for R6 400.
Inside, the Q2 continues to press all the right buttons. At once minimalist and high-tech, it's a feel-good interior that goes a long way to justifying the price, even though some of the interior plastics are not quite to A3 level. The driving position is superb, with generous rake and reach adjustment from the sporty steering wheel, as well as height adjustment from the driver's seat. Our test unit featured extended leather trim (R4 500) in addition to fine Nappa leather upholstery (R21 000). There are more affordable leather options, thankfully. Also fitted to our test unit and boosting the cabin ambience was the excellent Virtual Cockpit digital instrumentation (R6 400), an ambient lighting package (R5 850) and a panoramic sunroof (R15 000).
In terms of cabin versatility, it has to be noted that the Q2 doesn't quite offer as much rear legroom as some of its rivals, but it should be fine for kids or shorter adults. The boot, too, lags the competition at 405L. It is however decently shaped. An extra-cost item that really should be standard is a folding rear seatback (R3 500).
Performance & Efficiency
The 7-speed dual-clutch transmission is a good match for the punchy engine, and real-world fuel economy is impressive.
Powering this derivative of the Q2 is the Volkswagen/Audi group's proven 1.4-litre turbopetrol engine, delivering 110 kW from 5 000 to 6 000 rpm and a useful 250 Nm of torque from 1 500 to 3 500 rpm. Audi claims a 0-100 kph time of 8.5 seconds for this model, equipped with the lovely 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. On paper, then, the performance looks slightly worse than the main rivals featured here, but in the real world – and without back-to-back comparison – the Q2 seems to punch above its weight, feeling sprightly in almost all situations. Overtaking acceleration is strong, too, with that flat torque curve coming in very handy indeed. Keep in mind that the Audi Drive Select system is optional (R2 780) and well worth the money if you want to be able to set up the drivetrain characteristics on the fly.
Another area in which the Q2's drivetrain impresses is fuel economy. Audi claims a combined cycle consumption figure of 5.4 L/100 km and while you're unlikely to see average that low, especially if the majority of your driving will be around town, our average of around 6.5 L/100 km is both achievable and admirable.
Ride & Handling
Our test unit featured the optional S Line package. The blend of ride comfort and sharp dynamics on these 18-inch wheels is impressive.
The Q2 shares much of its underpinnings with the upcoming new-generation Volkswagen Polo, as well as the current A3 and Golf. This means it makes use of the VW Group's impressive MQB platform, which has thus far delivered some of the best-handling and -riding vehicles the group has ever produced. So, the ingredients are most certainly first-class.
On the road, the Q2 doesn't disappoint, displaying the same blend of tight bodycontrol and suppleness that have made other recent VW and Audi products so impressive to pilot. In short, the Q2 manages to feel at once agile and planted, while the steering is pleasantly weighted, too. The display of composure and refinement certainly bodes well for the upcoming Polo! Note that the standard Q2 wheel is a 17-incher, but 18- and 19-inch options are available. The latter may make the ride too stiff, however. Our test unit's 18-inch wheel appeared to strike the perfect compromise between good looks and acceptable ride comfort.
Oh, and while the Q2 is positioned as a crossover, it really should not be seen as a quasi-SUV. The ride height is only marginally higher than what you'd find on a traditional hatchback and the suspension set-up certainly favours smooth tar.
Value for Money
Wireless charging functionality is a R4 750 option.
Now we get to perhaps the biggest question mark that hovers over the Q2 – is it good value? Given what you get for the base price of R529 500, the instinctive answer is "no". A base Q2 comes with cloth seats, cruise control, manual air-conditioning, electric windows, MMI radio system (with smaller colour screen) with bluetooth functionality and a few other niceties, including a height-adjustable driver's seat. Hardly what the target audience would describe as "desirable".
But perhaps the base Q2 should be seen as just that… a base onto which you add your own personality, as far as your budget allows. Want the full-fat MMI Navigation Plus system? That'll be a cool R24 000. You arguably don't need that these days… but it's there if you want it. Perhaps of more relevance for the target customers is the Bang and Olufsen sound system (R9 800), smartphone interface (R2 800), wireless charging (R4 750) and very cool Virtual Cockpit digital instrumentation (R6 400).
The larger info-tainment screen is part of the optional MMI Navigation Plus package. Dual-zone climate control costs extra, too.
Now add one or two attractive exterior options (the contrasting blade colour and perhaps the S-Line package), and you suddenly have a far more desirable vehicle, even at the higher price. Our test unit's price (with options), however, came to a staggering R708 600, which is ultimately very, very hard to justify, no matter which way you look at it.
Pricing and Warranty
The base price for this model is R529 500, but beware the options list. As detailed in the article, the price quickly escalates as a number of optional items, such as leather upholstery, smartphone interface and digital instrumentation are highly desirable. Included as standard is a 1-years/unlimited km warranty, thankfully supplemented with a 5-years/unlimited km maintenance plan.
Verdict
The Q2 is undeniably desirable and good to drive, but cabin space and a steep price are factors to consider carefully.
The Q2 is one of those cars that just can't win in any common sense analysis. It is hardly unique in that sense – the premium car makers are very good at convincing us to pay more for less. So if you're looking for a practical, value-for-money crossover, this is not it, let's be clear about that. But within the context of what it's supposed to do, and to whom it's supposed to appeal, the Q2 is rather hard to fault. Equipped with the right optional extras (the right mix will really depend on your own tastes), the Q2 is an eye-catching, stylish offering of high quality, great to drive and loaded with modern features.
