International motor shows always have many interesting concepts and futuristic vehicles on display, and the 2017 Geneva Motor Show was no exception. Let's check out five of the most eccentric vehicles from this year's show.
1. Volkswagen Sedric Concept
This strange-looking toaster on wheels from Volkswagen is claimed to be an autonomous driving vehicle. It's incredibly futuristic and features things like an artificial intelligence interface so you can talk to the car, while the windscreen doubles as a big screen with augmented reality. The vehicle looks more like a lounge on wheels than a car, and it features a 2+2 layout with air-purifying plants. It's very far-fetched and eccentric, which is why we like it.
2. Honda NeuV Concept
Honda's all-electric concept offers an artificial intelligence assistant, two seats with a luggage compartment and is inspired by the 1970s Honda Scooter. The doors are the stand-out feature here and offer easy access. When you're not using it, it functions as an automated ride-sharing car and Honda claims that it can even sell electricity back to the grid. We first saw this vehicle at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas earlier this year.
3. Hyundai FE Fuel Cell Concept
Hyundai avoided the compact, electrified, autonomous city car cliche and went to Geneva with a stylish SUV. Powered by hydrogen, the FE Fuel Cell Concept represents Hyundai's aim of creating a zero-emission society. The car is capable of driving more than 800 km between hydrogen refuels and this tech will be implemented in a production model, scheduled for launch in 2018.
4. Renault Zoe e-Sport Concept
This sporty-looking concept is based on the production Zoe electric vehicle. It's inspired by the FIA Formula E Championship and is aimed at promoting the sportiness of electric power. This vehicle produces 340 kW and 640 Nm, which gives it a claimed 0-100 kph time of just 3.2 seconds. So not only does it look fast, but it actually is fast.
5. Bentley EXP 12 Speed 6e Concept
Bentley is aiming to have an electric model in its lineup and designed this concept to gauge feedback. The British company is hoping that its all-electric vehicle will be able to travel between Milan and Monaco on a single charge. Top ups come from inductive charging and you can plug it in via mains AC power. Bentley's first plug-in hybrid will come to market in the next few years and the first model to benefit from the electric tech will be the Bentayga.
International motor shows always showcase interesting concepts and futuristic designs, many of which never see the light of day. We take a look at what WILL be coming to SA and why the newcomers are important to the market.
1. Mercedes-Benz X-Class
There’s much hype around the Benz bakkie – well in South Africa in particular – and the interest seems well-founded as the first purposefully-made premium bakkie could be quite impressive. According to Benz, it’s hardly a rebadged Nissan Navara but more a premium Mercedes-Benz through and through. It should be officially launched late this year and then make its way to SA in early 2018. Could we see our first ever R1-million bakkie?
The erstwhile Mazda/Ford relationship is well and truly done and dusted and many argue that the Hiroshima-based brand is all the better for it. With its sole focus on developing and marketing its own products, the Japanese brand has grown impressively in South Africa. It set a yearly sales record in 2016 with the CX-5 being its top-selling model.
The new model promises to deliver more of the same but with more comfort and refinement – especially within the cabin. The looks haven’t detoured too much from its winning formula but will that prove to be a positive or a negative come launch time mid-2017?
The Suzuki Swift has always been an underrated compact hatchback. It has offered good value, agile handling dynamics and high safety levels, but the interior hasn’t always been the fanciest – in fact, that is its major drawback. The new model heralds multiple changes, both inside and out and the exterior revisions you can judge for yourself. The interior, however, looks improved from a tech standpoint, but still isn’t exactly the epitome of modern design. It’s unlikely to worry the top-selling Polo, but it might ruffle some feathers amongst the likes of Hyundai (i20), Opel (Corsa) etc.
Ford didn’t exactly wow with its new Fiesta ST. It lacks a distinctive physique that would give it that raucous fast-Ford look. It’s sure to be fast, even with a tiny 3-pot turbo doing the hard yards under the bonnet. Still, Ford promises more torque (50 Nm) and power (13 kW) than the outgoing model. There’s a long wait until it goes on sale (it’s only likely to arrive in mid-year 2018). Let’s hope it retains the fun-to-drive factor of the current model.
The newest Range Rover in the Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) stable squeezes itself between the Evoque and the Range Rover Sport, but only just! In the metal, its exterior treatment looks strong and purposeful, but arguably more like it would fit in better in the city than the rugged outdoors.
It’s still a Range Rover at heart with loads of off-road capability and adaptable driving modes/suspension settings to make every journey/adventure a luxurious affair. It could be in South Africa by the 4th quarter of 2017 to take on competitors such as Jaguar F-Pace, Mercedes GLC and Audi Q5.
The Toyota Corolla continues to dominate the local compact sedan segment, but most buyers opt for the more affordable 1.6-litre Prestige derivative, as opposed to the 1.8-litre flagship tested here. Following its recent facelift, the top-dog Corolla now adds a significantly larger dose of style to its proven recipe. Has it moved with the times sufficiently?
We like: Quality build, space, standard features, comfort, "peace of mind"
We don't like: Engine lacks low-down torque, high-ish fuel consumption
Alternatives
For a sportier drive: The Mazda3 remains one of the hidden gems in the local market, and in 2.0-litre Individual spec it's priced almost exactly the same as the Corolla. Its larger engine delivers sprightlier performance, but due to the brand's SkyActiv technologies, doesn't do so with a hefty fuel consumption penalty. It is similarly specced to the Toyota, but not as spacious in the boot or on the rear seats.
A more spacious offering: Through the years the VW Jetta has evolved into a rather aspirational product. In its current guise, however, we feel it no longer represents a significant perceived quality advantage over its peers. Therefore, its higher price is difficult to stomach, also because it is down on specification. It is, however, a very comfortable, spacious offering.
Something a bit more affordable: You may want to consider the Ford Focus sedan, offered at just over R300k in 1.5T Trend guise. For the money you get a spacious, comfortable and rather stylish offering that is powered by what appears to be – on paper at least – a class-leading engine in terms of power and efficiency. In our experience, the 1.5-litre is thirstier than you may expect. It also lacks some of the nice-to-have features (such as leather), but remember the price advantage!
The facelifted Corolla is more stylish and offers "peace of mind" appeal that its rivals can't beat.
Facts & Figures
Price: R336 300 (March 2017)
Engine: 1.8-litre 4-cylinder petrol
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Power: 103 kW
Torque: 173 Nm
Fuel Consumption: 7.0 L/100 km (claimed)
Top speed: 200 kph
0-100 kph: 9.8 sec
Summary: If a comfortable, well-specced and reliable sedan is what you're after, it's difficult to argue against the Corolla 1.8 Exclusive. After all, it does most things right and adds considerable "peace-of-mind" appeal that most rivals simply can't match. Yes, it may lack a stand-out ability or feature, which for some will mean it is charmless, but overall the breadth of ability on offer remains impressive.
The good:
Practicality
Much of the rise in popularity of crossovers and SUVs has been attributed to their supposed superiority in terms of practicality compared with the traditional sedan. There is some truth in that argument, of course. If you need to transport a washing machine, you simply won't get that into a Corolla. But if carting bicycles and large box-shaped appliances are not on your to-do list, then the Corolla will be more than up to the task. In fact, it arguably offers more rear legroom and comfort than similarly priced crossovers, and the boot is very large, at 452 L.
Space abounds in the Toyota Corolla with ample legroom for rear passengers. The boot is large too…
Ride quality and Refinement
Toyota has arguably not received its due praise for the suspension set-up of the current Corolla – or, indeed, for most of its recent products. Even prior to the Corolla's facelift it offered very impressive ride comfort, without being sloppy in the corners. The Japanese firm took the opportunity recently to further fine tune the suspension, with claimed improvements in terms of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH), as well as an even quieter and more supple ride. The cabin is indeed a hushed and comfortable place to spend time in. Here, too, Toyota's boffins have made several tweaks, including a thicker inner silencer for the dash panel and a denser material for the floor insulation. Combined with the quality materials and comfy seats, this is a car that asks a lot of questions of the VW Jetta's supposed "perceived quality" superiority.
The ride comfort offered by the Corolla is commendable and the finetuned suspension delivers a smoother ride.
Facia design and Features
We like the design of the current Corolla's cabin. The upright facia has benefitted from more attractive finishes, and there are some neat touches, including the smart toggle switches for the standard climate control, the stitched leather across the lower section of the dashboard and the circular air vents at the facia's outer edges. Overall, there is considerably more design flair inside a Corolla, than on the outside. This model is also comprehensively equipped with features and comes with 7 airbags as standard, leather upholstery, the aforementioned infotainment system (somewhat clunky, to be honest), cruise control, rain-sensing wipers, rear-view camera and stability control, among other items.
Interior build quality is good with appealing design touches and this derivative is packed with standard features.
The bad:
"Old-fashioned" engine
This Corolla is powered by the brand's well-known 1.8-litre petrol engine. In these days of downsizing and turbocharging, it is a bit of a throwback. While its power output of 103 kW is quite decent, maximum torque of 173 Nm doesn't compare favourably with its rivals and it's only available at 4 000 rpm. This means there's not much power low down. You'll have to rev it quite hard to extract its maximum performance, which admittedly is not bad (0-100 kph in less than 10 seconds). On the upside, the 6-speed manual transmission is a pleasure to use, offering crisp gearshifts. The other negative we have to mention is comparatively poor fuel efficiency. Its claimed consumption figure of 7.0 L/100 km is higher than the selected rivals, and in real life you can expect to achieve around 8.5 L/100 km.
The 1.8-litre engine in this Corolla is not a star performer and it's quite thirsty compared with its rivals.
Pricing and Warranty
The Toyota Corolla 1.8 Exclusive sells for R336 300 (March 2017) which includes a 3-year/100 000 km warranty and 5-year/90 000 km service plan. Services are scheduled for every 15 000 km.
Verdict
Toyota hasn't (and probably never will) strayed too far from what has been a 50-year long success recipe for its mainstay sedan offering. It accounts for 20% of marque's global sales, so is just too important to fiddle with. So while the recently updated design includes attractive LED lighting details and an eye-catching front bumper treatment, the Corolla remains a conservative offering at heart – in this instance even more so given the fitment of a naturally aspirated petrol engine. Where the Corolla has arguably moved into a position to challenge for segment leadership is on the inside. Offering quality finishes where it matters, surprisingly stylish design and crisp displays, along with very comfy seats, the Corolla 1.8 Exclusive is a mature, discreetly stylish offering from behind the steering wheel. If this sounds like something that would appeal to you, then the Corolla won't disappoint.
Honda has updated its Ballade sedan with revised exterior and interior appointments. Take a look at the details…
In an effort to boost the appeal of the Ballade, Honda has tweaked the exterior and interior design with a number of enhancements.
On the outside, you will notice newly designed front and rear bumpers as well as a revised grille. Honda is also offering a range of new wheel designs to complement the changes. All derivatives in the Ballade range now get daytime running lights and the flagship Executive version benefits from LED headlights fitted as standard. Four exterior colours are available to buyers including Taffeta White, Alabaster Silver Metallic, Modern Steel Metallic and Carnelian Red Pearl.
On the inside, the material finish and perceived interior quality has been bumped up, giving the Ballade a more stylish, sporty edge. The Executive derivative comes fitted with leather seats, keyless entry, engine start/stop button and a fully automatic air conditioning system. Furthermore, ISOFIX child seat mounts are standard across the range.
Honda Ballade – Price in South Africa
Honda Ballade 1.5 Trend Manual – R238 800
Honda Ballade 1.5 Trend CVT – R254 200
Honda Ballade 1.5 Elegance Manual – R267 800
Honda Ballade 1.5 Elegance CVT – R283 200
Honda Ballade 1.5 Executive CVT – R307 200
Pricing includes a 5-year/200 000 km warranty, 4-year/60 000 km service plan and 3 years AA Roadside Assistance.
The facelifted Volkswagen Golf R is due to arrive in South Africa in the middle of 2017, but is Volkswagen already offering up a higher performing option?
The almost-upon-us Volkswagen Golf R will be coming to South Africa with an uprated 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, with 228 kW and 400 Nm. It also features a new 7-speed DSG 'box which allows the new R to slingshot to 100 kph in a claimed 4.6 seconds.
However, Volkswagen released a video on YouTube recently showing a hotter Golf R, or at least an option to make the Golf R even faster. The video shows that this new model is called the Golf R, with performance options. These options include some aerodynamic tweaks, bigger brakes, a bigger rear spoiler, a reworked (and presumably louder) sports exhaust, adjustable shock absorbers, as well as the top speed limiter moved to 267 kph.
Other than this video, not much else is known. One thing is for sure, the Golf R now certainly sounds the part. We'll bring you more details as we get them.
The Toyota C-HR is turning heads in South Africa, but the newcomer is up against some stiff competition. Take a look at 5 cars it needs to beat in the local market…
By Toyota’s standards, the new C-HR crossover is downright outlandish, flamboyant even, but based on the amount of attention it has garnered since its recent arrival, it’s bound to resonate well in our market.
Demand for the C-HR is high and with only one production plant in Turkey making them, Toyota’s 150-odd monthly allotment for South Africa should fly off showroom floors faster than you can say…C-HR. A new 1.2-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine powers the C-HR with 85 kW and 185 Nm of torque on offer. A 6-speed manual transmission and CVT are available to buyers.
The C-HR joins a booming crossover segment and it comes well-armed with sharp, progressive styling and attractive interior packaging that makes its rivals look rather ancient. However, most buyers are smart and for the C-HR to succeed, it will have to trump a host of formidable rivals on the road to sales success.
Here are 5 cars that the new Toyota C-HR will need to beat…
Suzuki Vitara
The Suzuki Vitara 1.6 GL+ won the Compact Family Car category in the annual Cars.co.za Consumer Awards and it attractively blends style, spaciousness, features, refinement and reliability. The Vitara range is powered by a naturally aspirated 1.6-litre engine that develops 86 kW and 151 Nm of torque with a 5-speed manual and 6-speed automatic transmission on offer.
The Creta is also new to the crossover segment and even though it’s a bit pricier, it offers attractive styling, a solidly built interior and lots of space for luggage and passengers. There are two engines available, a naturally aspirated 1.6-litre petrol engine with 90 kW and 150 Nm of torque, as well as a 1.6-litre turbodiesel engine with 94 kW and 260 Nm on offer. The entry-level petrol derivative makes use of a 6-speed manual transmission while a 6-speed automatic is offered on the rest of the range.
The Renault Captur is a popular choice in this segment with its chic styling and feature-packed interior. There are two petrol and one diesel derivative on offer. The petrol range kicks off with the entry-level 0.9-litre turbopetrol engine with 66 kW and 135 Nm as well as a more powerful 1.2-litre turbopetrol engine delivering 88 kW and 190 Nm. The diesel option is arguably the pick of the range with its 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine packing 66 kW and 220 Nm of torque. A 5-speed manual transmission is offered on all derivatives except the top-spec 88 kW turbopetrol derivative, which uses a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission.
The Mazda CX-3 is another popular option in this segment and it combines attractive styling with a smart, well-specced interior. The CX-3 is powered by a naturally aspirated 2.0-litre petrol engine with 115 kW and 204 Nm on tap and buyers have the choice of a 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic transmission across three trim levels.
The facelifted 2008 has just arrived in South Africa with exterior styling updates as well as a new version of Peugeot’s iCockpit dashboard and an enhanced range of features. A new 2008 GT Line joins the range and there’s a new 6-speed automatic transmission on offer. The 2008 range starts with a 1.6-litre turbodiesel engine mated with a 5-speed manual transmission. This engine offers 68 kW and 230 Nm of torque.
A 1.2-litre turbopetrol engine with 81 kW and 205 Nm of torque is available with the new 6-speed automatic transmission only.
The South African motorist was set to benefit from a petrol price drop in April 2017, but according to the Automobile Association (AA), the decrease is not as much as you might have hoped for. Here's why…
The timing of these predicted petrol price drops in April 2017 could not have come at a worse time as the increases to the general fuel and Road Accident Fund (RAF) levies are due to kick in. The general fuel levy will increase by 30 cents per litre and the RAF by 9 cents per litre. Both increases come into play on 1 April 2017. Frustratingly, the AA predicted that petrol would decrease by around 51 cents per litre and diesel by 27 cents per litre.
“This means that while motorists may have expected the current price per litre of petrol to drop substantially, they will now only see it going down by around 12 cents a litre. Diesel users, on the other hand, will see an increase of 12 cents a litre, with the levies eating up any gains,” the AA said. International petrol prices have again declined, which brings hope that another decrease could be on the cards in May 2017.
"OPEC's reduction in its crude oil output targets has been countered by increasing global oil stocks held by non-OPEC nations," the AA said. "This has gradually pushed the oil price down to near the levels it was maintaining before OPEC's output targets were adjusted, which is good news for South Africans." Thanks to a fairly stable Rand/Dollar exchange rate, motorists are likely to benefit from a price decrease. "The Rand has shed around 4 cents against the dollar since the start of March. If this period of relative stability in the exchange rate continues, the currency will only have a small influence on the fuel price at month end," the AA concluded.
Here’s what you can expect to pay for fuel from Wednesday 1 March 2017:
The long-awaited new Nissan Navara has made landfall in South Africa. Does the newcomer have what it takes to upset the pecking order in South Africa’s thriving double-cab bakkie market? Let’s take a closer look…
It’s an exciting time for the local bakkie market: the new Mitsubishi Triton was recently introduced and Nissan’s new Navara has now finally arrived on our shores. The Navara is currently imported from Thailand, but it's expected to be produced locally at Nissan’s Rosslyn plant in the very near future.
Key design improvements
The new Navara features coil spring five-link rear suspension that has improved ride quality and handling substantially over its predecessor.
Design-wise, the Navara represents a leap forward over its predecessor; it looks much more like an SUV than a bakkie, especially from the front. The nose is characterised by Nissan’s next generation V-motion grille design, flanked by full LED headlights with boomerang-shaped LED daytime running lights. The rear taillights have also been redesigned and the tailgate features an integrated lip that’s said to aid aerodynamic efficiency.
From a technological point of view, the Navara takes a bold step forward for the leisure double-cab market through the adoption of a 5-link coil rear suspension (as opposed to the traditional leaf spring configuration found on chassis-based bakkies) in conjunction with an independent double wishbone front setup, which sets the newcomer up with the potential to set a new standard for ride comfort in its segment (but more on that later).
Although the Navara is claimed to weigh 176 kg less than its predecessor, one can hardly tell on account of its dimensions. The load bay has increased in length by 67 mm and is also 18 mm deeper compared with the previous version; it offers a capacity totalling 1 016 litres and, in terms of load carrying ability, the Navara can transport up to 1 002 kg (specification dependent) with a maximum braked towing capacity of 3 500 kg.
The Navara range
The new Navara comes to market with good standard specification, competitive pricing and a 6-year/150 000 km warranty.
The Navara double cab is initially available in 4×4 guise with 3 models on offer. The range will expand when 4×2 models arrive before the end of the year. There are two trim grades on offer, namely the mid-spec SE (manual only) and high-spec LE (manual and automatic).
The big news is the introduction of a new 2.3-litre twin turbodiesel engine offering peak outputs of 140 kW and 450 Nm of torque. Buyers have a choice of either a 6-speed manual or 7-speed automatic transmission and for the former, Nissan claims an average fuel consumption figure of 6.5 L/100 km, representing an improvement of 19% over the outgoing Navara.
What’s the interior like?
The interior is well-specced and buyers will appreciate that navigation is offered as standard on all Navara derivatives.
The Navara is well sorted in terms of features and the interior design is simple and uncluttered. Graphite cloth seats are fitted across the range but customers can opt for 8-way adjustable heated leather seats as an option on LE derivatives. The steering wheel is tilt adjustable with mounted controls and dual zone climate control air conditioning is standard on LE derivatives.
Cruise control is standard across the range as is navigation, which is a boon in this segment. A touchscreen infotainment system is standard too and although it’s easy to use, we found the screen to be a bit small and it’s not the clearest screen we have seen, especially in bright light. We think Nissan could have fitted a better infotainment unit. However, the system does offer Bluetooth functionality along with USB and auxilliary inputs.
Space for rear passengers is generous with good leg, head and shoulder room.
There’s ample storage up front with a total of 4 cup holders, 2 bottle holders in the door mouldings, a centre console storage bin, upper dashboard storage, glove box and some space ahead of the gear lever for good measure. Two 12V sockets are standard and we were impressed with the electrically sliding rear window. Rear passengers have ample leg-, head- and shoulder room and an aft rear-facing air vent is a welcome addition.
Safety features include ABS with EBD, vehicle dynamic control, traction control, brake assist and 7 airbags. A reverse-view camera is fitted as standard across the range, but unfortunately the unit's image quality is not great…
What’s the Navara like to drive?
The Navara delivers excellent ride quality on tar and gravel and it proved to be adequately capable offroad.
Our long drive in the Navara started in Durbanville in the top-spec LE automatic derivative fitted with optional leather trim. The launch route started in Durbanville and we set course for Lamberts Bay on the West Coast.
The Navara’s 2.3-litre twin turbodiesel engine is a peach and well calibrated (if not near-perfectly matched) with the 7-speed automatic transmission. The motor delivers its power with gusto low-down in the rev range resulting in good acceleration from standstill with minimal lag.
Overtaking acceleration is effortless as the 'box works through its ratios with little to no hesitation. There’s more than enough shove on offer; suffice to say we were impressed with the engine’s performance! The engine is relatively quiet under normal driving but does become noticeably noisier as you flatten the accelerator, but it’s not harsh. What’s more, the bakkie returned a fair fuel consumption figure of 9.5 L/100 km during our journey.
The Navara's instrument cluster is made more upmarket by the central TFT full-colour trip computer readout.
Perhaps the most noticeable highlight of the new Navara's on-road performance is indeed its settled ride quality. In fact, by bakkie standards, it’s nothing short of a revelation. Even on long sections of puckered gravel road, little unsettled the Navara’s composure. The ride was never crashy.
We also took the Navara automatic for a brief 4×4 session in the sand dunes on the outskirts of Lamberts Bay where its ability to navigate powdery hot sand was put to the test (the bakkie has a ground clearance of 229 mm). After deflating the tyres, we headed onto the sand for some fun.
The Navara’s 4-wheel-drive system is easily operated via a mechanical transfer case using a handy turn-knob where the driver can switch between 2H, 4H and 4L. The switch between 2H and 4H can be made on the fly at speeds up to 100 kph.
Depending on traction and speed, a new active brake limited slip differential system (ABLS) will manage power delivery and wheel braking between the front and rear axles, which, in conjunction with the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system, ensures optimal performance in tough terrain.
The Navara glided over the dunes with seemingly little effort and proved to be suitably capable. The automatic 4×4 derivative is also equipped with Hill Descent Control and Hill-start Assist as standard.
Shifting between 2- and 4-wheel modes on the fly made it easy to coax the Navara from road- to off-road modes.
We also managed to get behind the wheel of the mid-spec Navara SE manual derivative. Much like the automatic transmission, the 6-speed manual, although marginally notchy in operation, performed well. We were particularly impressed with the transmission’s tractability in sixth gear. Even at lower speeds, this gear offers good punch and the driver does not have to gear down in search of power, it’s just there, ready when you need it. This will be quite beneficial on long journeys because you can simply cruise along in sixth gear without gearing down for every incline or overtaking manoeuvre. What a pleasure…
The manual derivative was marginally thirstier though, and during our stint, the readout displayed an average figure of 10.0 L/100 km.
The Navara has established itself as a credible rival to the segment leaders for the hearts and minds of lifestyle buyers.
Summary
We think the Navara’s excellent ride quality and solid engine and transmission combinations are admirable. Factor in a good dose of standard features and all of a sudden the Navara is a strong contender in this segment. It also helps that it’s competitively priced against its main rivals too, with a reassuringly lengthy warranty to boot. The limited extent of the range's line-up limits the Navara's appeal a little, but for buyers looking near the top end of the market, the Navara makes the opposition seem a little too "bakkie-ish" by comparison. Ford and Toyota have a battle on their hands.
Look out for our thorough evaluation coming your way soon!
New Nissan Navara – Price in South Africa
2.3 DDTT 4×4 SE Double Cab MT R514 900
2.3 DDTT 4×4 LE Double Cab MT R565 900
2.3 DDT 4×4 LE Double Cab AT R597 900
Prices include a 6-year/150 000 km warranty and a 3-year/90 000 km service plan.
The Audi S3 sedan was facelifted towards the end of 2016 and, among other upgrades, it received a more potent powerplant. Does it strike a good balance between an executive express and a rorty performance sedan?
We like: Build quality, powertrain refinement, performance, matured into a compact executive performer
We don't like: Lacks outright "driver involvement", can get expensive if you're liberal with the options list
Alternatives:
Rear Wheel Drive Fun: TheBMW M240imakes a phenomenal case for itself as it combines svelte looks with a roaring turbocharged straight-6 powerplant. It's one for the enthusiasts and will satisfy those craving heightened driver involvement. It offers just as much tech as the Audi, but its 2-door layout is a drawback in terms of practicality.
Let's Get Wild: The Ford Focus RS is a fraction more expensive than the Audi, but offers oodles of addictive (and always-entertaining) performance. We'd expect the Audi to be fractionally quicker in the sprint department thanks to its slick transmission, but the RS feels the more hands-on car to drive. However, at this price point, the Ford's interior lags in terms of cabin comfort and build quality.
Also a German all-wheel drive sedan: We don't know much about the Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 Sport4Matic, because we've not yet tested the car, but in terms of image and packaging, it offers something not too dissimilar to the S3 sedan. According to its quoted performance figures, however, it's considerably slower than the Audi.
Summary: Previously, the Audi S3 sedan was detuned due to our climate, but that's no longer the case and we get the full power/torque offering. The car is built really well and features a beautifully modern interior, but we feel the driving experience now leans more towards that of a buttoned-up sporty executive car.
Very understated looks mean the Audi S3 sedan is a veritable stealth jet. Quad exhausts and badges are the only giveaways
The good:
A potent powerplant
Let's start with that engine. Finally, we're getting the whole shebang (the whole package, performance-wise). Previously, the S3 engine was detuned due to the nature of our climate (a combination of high altitude/thinner air and lofty temperatures, especially upcountry), but now we get 228 kW and 440 Nm from the newcomer's 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder mill. It revs smoothly and cleanly, with no let up in surge until the rev needle hits the redline. Typically, 4-cylinder engines sound mechanical and lack soul, but Audi's engineers have worked a nice growl and pops from the exhaust ends with each gear shift. There are driving modes with which to adjust the engine's responsiveness and the car never feels out of its comfort zone.
Now equipped with 7 forward gears, the Audi S3 sedan's transmission adapts masterfully with variable driving conditions.
Unobtrusive, but dynamic transmission
Audi's dual-clutch transmission (called S-Tronic) is undoubtedly the star of the show. For this new model, the transmission has changed from a "wet clutch" to a "dry clutch" configuration and gained an extra ratio. Plus, if you thought the 'box in the previous S3 shifted almost imperceptibly when cruising and vigorously in Sport mode, the new unit is even more dynamic.
You can leave the gearbox in full auto when you're doing the commute, something we readily recommend as its just so smooth and efficient… in fact, you hardly notice the changes as the cogs swap from one ratio to the next. When you want to get a move on, however, you can engage Dynamic mode and take charge of shifts via the steering-wheel-mounted paddles.
The paddles are lifted straight from the VW Group parts bin, but they feel well-sized, are easily within the reach of your fingers and, crucially, they're affixed to the steering wheel instead of the -column, so you can change gear with ease… There's nothing more infuriating than turning the wheel and wanting to change gear, only to find the paddles hard to reach!
Given the S3 sedan's performance bent, the Audi's levels of ride comfort and refinement are impressive. Much of this sophistication can be attributed to the MQB platform, which underpins so many VW Group products, because despite its sporty pretensions, the S3 has matured into a refined executive vehicle from the hot hatch it was based upon. The cabin is awash with sporty adornments (including the front sports seats) and the fit-and-finish quality is excellent. The digital dashboard, known as Virtual Cockpit is the must-have option – it adds a smart technological edge to the car. Other than that, our evaluation unit was a little sparse on the optional extras, but we did not perceive it as under-specced in the least.
Surefooted handling
Seeing that it's a performance offering from the Audi stable, the S3 purports to be a supreme handling machine. Suffice to say, the test unit delivered with aplomb. There is so much grip and, therefore, traction availed by the all-wheel-drive setup that you'd have to be trying to bend the laws of physics to elicit squeals from the tyres. The S3 grips tenaciously; it refuses to get unstuck and only when you're really making a fool of yourself does the S3 exhibit some mild understeer. With Dynamic mode engaged, the ride firms up a bit and the car feels markedly edgier.
Meanwhile, body roll is almost none existent and the steering is quick and sharp. Therefore, the car responds quickly to changes in direction and with so much grip available, you can easily pitch the S3 into the tightest of turns with confidence, even when the Audi is carrying a fair deal of momentum. However, there's a downside to the driving experience, which you'll read about below.
Virtual Cockpit greatly increases the user experience from behind the wheel. Tick this option.
The bad:
Sometimes-anodyne driving experience
While there's no denying that the Audi S3 sedan is a blisteringly quick vehicle, we feel that it is missing a bit of a fun factor: something subtle that makes the car feel as if it's spoiling for a dice even when you're pottering along. Given its positioning between the 2.0T FSI or TDI derivatives and the upcoming RS3 performance flagship, the S3 needs to tread the fine line between a rational derivative and an all-out sportscar and although this is subjective, perhaps the sedan errs slightly on the part of conservatism. Let us put it this way: if you compare the Volkswagen Golf Clubsport with its Golf R and Audi S3 brother and cousin, it offers a bit less performance, but still feel hands-on and involving despite its more businesslike packaging.
A nice touch to the customisable Virtual Cockpit display… the S3 quattro-specific readout.
Pricey options
While the overall package is quite difficult to fault, we'd have to nitpick and give Audi a light slap on the wrist for the price of the optional extras. The car's price starts at a not-too-silly R656 000, which is on par for vehicles in this segment. However, add in some nice-to-haves such as Virtual Cockpit (which has to be taken with satnav) as well as an uprated audio system, and you're well into the territory of a R700 000-plus premium compact sedan… which is dear, even for a very desirable Audi product with loads of snob value. In its defence, however, the S3's standard spec is generous in comparison with that of standard A3 sedans. Essentially, you're paying R650k, but you're getting a car with a healthy dose of kit included.
Pricing and after sales
The Audi S3 sedan retails for R656 000 and comes with a 5 year/100 000km Audi Freeway Plan.
The aerodynamic bodykit fitted to the S3 is subtle, but the large alloys are certainly eye-catching!
Verdict
The Audi S3 sedan is a deeply impressive and accomplished product. It's fast alright, but it's also really pliant/comfortable on the commute/when you're not in the mood to drive quickly. This test unit perfectly illustrated how the S3 has matured from its original 165 kW hot hatch boy racer to a fast premium compact sedan. There's no denying that it offers excellent straight-line performance and the levels of grip are nothing short of confidence-inspiring. However, its real strength is how it can go from mountain pass performer to executive commuter almost seamlessly.
Ironically, some may find the fact that the car can wear both hats with ease a negative trait. Yes, it may seem slightly more of an executive's source of everyday transport than a sportscar (that seems its default setting), but few will argue against the fact that the S3 has become one of the finest all-rounders on the road. Sure, the options can get pricey, but at this price point, there's very little to touch the S3 sedan in terms of desirability, performance and refinement. You and your (admittedly young) rear passengers will be comfortable on longer journeys, with the highly-strung racer engine barely breaking a sweat. The S3 sedan has matured nicely; it's unlikely the fiery upcoming RS3 sedan will be nearly as well balanced.
A facelifted version of the Peugeot 2008 has arrived in South Africa and we have specifications and pricing for this model.
This compact family car/crossover was launched globally back in 2013 and has tallied up many sales. Now there's a facelifted model and the changes range from exterior cosmetic updates to 3 trim levels, while a new 6-speed automatic gearbox makes its debut.
There's also a new version of Peugeot's iCockpit dashboard, which was first seen in the 308 hatch. It comprises a 7-inch colour touchscreen with the latest connectivity options. The features and equipment have been enhanced too, but the big news is that Peugeot SA has introduced the 2008 with GT Line trim.
Model range
The latest Peugeot 2008 comes to market with a line-up comprising 4 models, with 2 engines, 2 gearboxes and 3 trim levels. The range starts off with the Active, which is powered by a 1.6-litre turbodiesel engine, mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox. This engine offers up peak outputs of 68 kW and 230 Nm, and is claimed to consume just 4.0 L/100 km.
Next up are the 2 Allure models, with the first combining the turbodiesel motor with a manual gearbox, and the second featuring the 1.2-litre turbocharged turbopetrol motor mated to the new 6-speed automatic transmission. Both cars feature the same specification. This petrol engine is good for 81 kW and 205 Nm, with a claimed fuel consumption figure of 5.4 L/100 km.
Finally, the flagship offering is the GT Line, which features a sporty interior as well as the 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol motor and new 6-speed automatic transmission.
"The new 2008 SUV is the first of three significant new model releases planned for this year, all aimed at strengthening Peugeot’s presence in the country," says Francis Harnie, the Managing Director of Peugeot South Africa. "While we are focusing on the Peugeot brand in the Southern African market as far as new products are concerned, our commitment to looking after our existing customers across the PSA model spectrum (as far as aftersales and servicing are concerned), remains undiminished.”
Features
Active
Comes equipped with cloth upholstery, leather-rimmed steering wheel, leather-trimmed parking brake, manual air conditioning, electrically operated windows front and rear, cruise control with a speed limiter function, a steering wheel adjustable for reach and rake, a 6-speaker sound system (USB and analogue 3,5 mm stereo inputs, Bluetooth-based music streaming and hands-free telephony), an on-board trip computer and a refrigerated glovebox.
Active and passive safety features include: ABS with electronic brake force distribution and emergency brake assist, plus electronic stability control. Six airbags, remote central locking with auto-locking doors when driving off, hill start assistance, electric child locks, IsoFix child seat tethers, and auto-activating hazard lights (when braking hard) are all included.
Allure
Active trim adds 17-inch alloy wheels, front fog lights, part-leather upholstery, fully automatic bi-zone climate control, auto-activating headlights and windscreen wipers, an electrochromatic rear-view mirror, and tinted rear windows.
GT Line
Visually, the GT Line gains gloss black detailing, blacked out roof rails, window surrounds and fog light surrounds. You get all the luxury, convenience and safety features of the Allure versions, but the infotainment system features a satellite navigation function too. Peugeot's Grip Control system is specifically for this model.
Peugeot 2008 Facelift Price in South Africa
All Peugeot 2008 vehicles feature a three-year or 100 000 km warranty and a three-year or 45 000 km service plan. Intervals are every 15 000 km.
