The next-generation BMW 3 Series is in the pipeline and the sedan is expected to arrive in 2018.
Picture credit: S. Baldauf/SB-Medien
Our German spy photographers have been working hard this week; first, they gave us a glimpse of the new BMW X5 and now, the next-generation BMW 3 Series as it undergoes testing. The 3 Series is BMW’s bread-and-butter model in South Africa and it remains a strong seller. These images, however, reveal the new styling direction for the 7th-generation 3 Series, which appears to be much rounder and with the car sitting lower to the road than the current iteration. The rear-end has been completely redesigned, hence the heavy camouflage, and features a larger rear windscreen.
When the new BMW 3 Series arrives in 2018, it’s expected to be more efficient and dynamic, with a softer ride quality and enhanced cornering ability. Based on the brand's new CLAR architecture, the BMW 3 Series will weigh less too, which will further improve dynamics and performance.
The interior will feature a high-quality fascia with a minimalistic design. A large touchscreen with gesture control and voice activation is also likely to feature in the new BMW 3 Series.
Top speed run: Chasing 300 kph in Jaguar F-Type SVR [Video]
Can Ciro de Siena achieve his dream of driving at 300 kph? Jaguar availed us its fastest production car to date, the F-Type SVR and Ciro unleashed the rapid Jag at the Mafikeng SpeedWeek 2016.
What kind of mental fortitude does it require to achieve that heady velocity at the wheel of a road car? To find out, follow Ciro's adrenaline-fuelled quest with the rare and desirable F-Type SVR.
We look at some of the new cars that landed in South Africa in 2016 and see if they are selling as well as predicted.
It’s difficult to tell if a new car is going to be a hit with the public or not – unless it’s a Volkswagen, in which case it probably will be. What we as members of the motoring media do after we've reviewed new products is to sign off with a final line about letting the sales charts do the talking… But how are the new cars of 2016 actually doing? Looking through the list of new vehicles for 2016, Mercedes-Benz was the big player with 8 new models (including facelifts) this year. The problem with that is that Mercedes-Benz SA doesn’t release sales figures so we have zero indication of how well or badly its models are faring.
As for the rest, we’ve picked a selection of interesting new vehicles across various segments to see which models are doing well and which are flopping. A few things to note, however, are that the overall market is depressed so sales figures are likely to be a bit down from what they would normally be. Also, the supply of certain models may be limited – sales figures may suffer as a result of this.
Audi A4
The all-new A4 was launched in South Africa at the end of February 2016 and appears to have sold in decent numbers. Sales have averaged around 230 units a month since the Ingolstadt-based manufacturer launched its business class sedan. It is unlikely to match the sales figures of the locally built BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class, but as a premium model in a contracting market, the new A4 looks to have done well.
Sales of the 7 Series also commenced in February 2016 and BMW has since added new derivatives such as the long-wheelbase and Pure Excellence edition. For such an expensive business class car, sales have actually been relatively decent. Since February BMW has managed to shift an average of 30 units a month. Not bad when you consider the base price in February was R1.4 million.
The all-new X1 featured a more SUV-like shape and improved interior build quality. Its price was also hiked, but that hasn’t seemed to have deterred buyers from the premium-badged compact crossover. Having gone on sale in November 2015, this year’s sales have been steady, averaging around 185 units a month. That compares favourably with the Audi Q3, which is admittedly on its last legs and set for a replacement next year.
There was much hope for the Fiat double cab when we first got word it was coming to South Africa. An all-new platform and good-looking design raised hopes that the Italian marque could garner some early sales success. Unfortunately, the sales haven’t materialised with only June 2016 proving to be a decent sales month (70 units). Since inception, it has averaged just 40 units a month.
The previous Ford Figo was a great success for Ford. The Indian built B-segment hatch was a well-made reliable run-around was based on the previous generation Fiesta. This new generation Figo has transformed its image as a more upmarket vehicle and the sales figures aren’t looking particularly good. Whereas the old Figo was often selling more than 1 000 units a month, the new model averages around 460 units per month. Only once in the last 6 months has it managed to notch up more than 300 sales.
Technically, the facelifted Ranger was launched at the end of 2015, but we’ll only count the sales months from this year. Having usurped the Hilux at the top of the sales chart for a few months, it was always going to be interesting to see what happened to sales when the new Hilux hit the market this year. The new Ranger has continued to be a South African favourite and in the last month of full sales (October 2016) the Ford trumped its Toyota rival for the first time. On average, the new Ranger has sold 2 641 units a month.
Hyundai re-introduced the Tucson name when it launched the successor to the popular ix35 in March 2016 and the newcomer achieved sales success from the outset. According to Hyundai, the Tucson averages 615 units a month, making it the segment leader for medium-sized SUVs. That's impressive, considering it's up against tough opposition from the Toyota RAV4, Ford Kuga and Mazda CX-5, which are perennial South African favourites.
Jaguar has been dealt with a harsh hand from the exchange rate over the last year (more so than most marques) and, as a result, much of its pricing has been less than competitive. The new XF has struggled to gain any sales momentum this year, selling in single digits for the last 5 months. Currently, it averages just 11 units a month. Thankfully, it appears the F-Pace is selling reasonably well (it may actually be garnering sales at the expense of the XF).
The sporty little Mazda MX-5 is the top-selling convertible of all time; this version is also the current World Car of the Year and a finalist in the Fun Car category of the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards. We can’t expect huge sales of the 2-seater sportscar locally, however, as the pricing is quite steep and it’s in a very niche segment of the market. Since it went on sale at the beginning of the year, the MX-5 has averaged 11 units a month.
Since Mazda’s revival, the brand has done superbly well in SA, especially in the crossover market. The CX-3 is hardly a spacious, practical vehicle but it has stylish appeal. It appears that style eclipses practicality in the small SUV market as the CX-3 averages 220 units a month. To illustrate the Mazda's popularity, more practical models in this segment (such as the Honda HR-V and the Opel Mokka) sell around half those numbers per month.
The Opel Astra has been a mainstay of the C-segment hatch market. The new model features a much-updated interior and the exterior has a modern look to it. Unfortunately, that hasn't exactly translated into sales success with Astra lagging behind the likes of the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus and Mazda3. Since June this year, the Astra averages 116 units per month. Those mentioned above do well over 200 units per month.
The Renault Kadjar has been on the market since June 2016 and has begun to gain some sales momentum. Based on the Nissan Qashqai's platform, it has a more up-to-date infotainment system and is aimed at buyers who are looking for something a little different from their SUV. It was unlikely to be a major player in the market, but Renault is a brand on the front foot and sales are steadily creeping up (October 2016 saw a sales high of 105 units). On average, 57 Kadjars have been sold per month since June 2016.
The pint-sized Aygo is one of the finalists in the Budget Car category of the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, but how has it been doing on the sales charts? It can’t match its larger Etios sibling for sales success (despite being cheaper), but compared with its direct competitor, the Volkswagen Up!, the Toyota sells similarly, if ever so-slightly-less, per month. Currently, the Aygo is averaging 180 units a month.
Once the new Fortuner arrived in April this year, there was never any doubt as to who the bakkie-based SUV champ would be. In fact, the title of overall SUV champ has to go to the Fortuner. The Ford Everest plays a good game as does the Trailblazer, but the Fortuner is by far and away the market leader, often quadrupling (or more) its competitors' monthly sales figures. After 6 full months on sale, the Fortuner averages a whopping 1 290 units a month.
Overall, the Toyota Hilux is SA’s best-selling vehicle and, it looks set to continue that trend in 2016. A late surge of sales from the Ford Ranger is unlikely to overturn the Hilux’s sales lead. The new model’s launch in February, put clear daylight between it and the Ranger with Toyota moving 3 100 units a month.
The facelifted Audi A3 is launching in South Africa today! Take a look at specification and pricing for the refreshed A3 range…
The Audi A3 is the Ingolstadt-based firm’s most popular model in South Africa and following the new model's introduction in 2013, the car has received a number of technology, engine and styling updates. Let's take a look at what you can expect from the refreshed premium hatchback.
The facelifted A3 is available as a three-door hatchback, five-door Sportback, Sedan or Cabriolet. There are turbopetrol and turbodiesel engines on offer and you can opt for either a manual or an S-tronic transmission. The performance-orientated Audi RS3 Sportback and RS3 sedan will be introduced locally in 2017.
Exterior changes
The appearance of the A3 has changed somewhat and the most noticeable revisions are the redesigned headlights and taillights. Xenon-plus headlights are fitted as standard across the range, while LED headlights and Matrix LED headlights are optional. Meanwhile, the grille has been broadened and features sharpened contours, giving the facelifted A3 a more refined appearance and the rear diffuser has also been revised. A total of 12 exterior finish colours are available, of which 5 hues are new: Ara Blue, Cosmic Blue, Nano Gray, Tango Red and Vegas Yellow.
Sixteen-inch wheels as standard and Design or Sport derivatives will be fitted with 17-inch examples. New wheel designs will also be available on the optional 18 and 19-inch wheels.
Interior changes
The now familiar Audi Virtual Cockpit can be specified on the facelifted A3; it transforms the instrument clusters into a 12.3-inch diagonal TFT screen. The 7-inch MMI radio plus will be fitted as standard while MMI navigation and MMI navigation plus with MMI touch are optional.
In terms of safety technology, active lane assist, and Audi pre sense (with predictive pedestrian protection) can be specified. The optional traffic jam assist will also makes its way into the A3 and works in conjunction with the adaptive cruise control and Stop&Go feature to manage the distance between the vehicle and traffic up ahead at speeds up to 65 kph. The A3 will also benefit from Emergency Assist, which will bring the Audi to a stop if no steering activity is detected. Furthermore, rear cross-traffic assist will warn the driver if cars are approaching while reversing out of a parking bay.
Engine Choice
A total of 5 engine choices are available to buyers, including three petrol and one diesel engine. The A3 range will be powered by a 3-cylinder 1.0-litre turbopetrol engine for the first time, offering outputs of 85 kW and 200 Nm of torque. Fuel consumption for this engine is rated at 4.5 L/100 km.
A new cylinder-on-demand (COD) 1.4-litre turbopetrol engine is also on offer with 110 kW and 250 Nm of torque with a claimed fuel consumption figure of 4.5 L/100 km when mated to a 6-speed manual transmission.
If you want more power, you may want to consider the newly developed 2.0-litre turbopetrol engine with 140 kW and 320 Nm of torque on tap. This engine is mated to an all-new 7-speed dual-clutch transmission and returns a claimed fuel consumption figure of 5.5 L/100 km. In the S3, this same engine has received a power upgrade with outputs of 228 kW and 400 Nm of torque. Claimed fuel consumption for the S3 is rated at 6.4 L/100 km.
The only diesel engine in the A3 range is the 2.0 turbodiesel engine with 105 kW and 340 Nm and it's mated to an S tronic transmission with a claimed fuel consumption figure of 4.5 L/100 km.
Standard features
The Audi A3 will be fitted with the following features as standard:
Xenon headlights
Auto release function
Bluetooth interface
16-inch wheels
17-inch wheels (Cabriolet only)
Cruise control
Driver information system
Electrical interface, Aux and USB
Exterior mirrors in body colour
Front centre armrest
Cloth seats
Inlays in Micro metallic silver
Leather covered sport steering in 3-spoke design
Light and rain sensor
Interior lighting package
Manual air-conditioning
MMI radio plus
Dynamic suspension
The Audi S3 will be fitted with the following features as standard:
18-inch wheels with 5 twin-spoke star design
Audi Sound System
Bluetooth Interface
Cruise control
Deluxe automatic air-conditioning
Driver information system with colour display
Electric interface, Aux in and USB
Front Sport seats
High gloss package
Inlays in matt brushed aluminium
Interior mirror with automatic antiglare action
Leather covered multifunction sport steering wheel, flat bottomed with shift paddles
Leather/ fabric seat upholstery
LED Headlights and rear lights incl. dynamic turn signals at the rear
The Toyota C-HR made its debut at the Paris Motor Show and production of the new crossover has started at Toyota's Sakarya plant in Turkey.
The new C-HR crossover is being built alongside the Corolla and Verso models at Toyota's plant in Sakarya, Turkey. The plant exports about 80 percent of its production to Europe and its export destinations are expected to expand to serve markets in the USA, Canada, Taiwan, Mauritius and South Africa. Production capacity at the facility has also been ramped up from 150 000 units to 280 000 units.
“The Toyota C-HR is a hugely important product for the whole of Toyota, not just for Toyota Motor Manufacturing Turkey. The crossover segment is growing fast. This car is Toyota’s very strong entry to this segment,” said Dr Van Zyl, Toyota Motor Europe (TME) President and CEO.
The Toyota C-HR (an abbreviation for Coupe High-Rider) is arguably one of the prettiest Toyotas to emerge from the Japanese marque's design studio and, when it makes its debut in South Africa in 2017, it will fill a particular gap in the brand's line-up. Developed on the Toyota New Global Architecture, the C-HR is positioned between the Auris and the RAV4. With interest already reaching considerable levels, the target of 100 000 annual sales is not outrageous…
At 4 360 mm long, 1 795 mm wide, 1 555 mm high (Hybrid) and with a 2 640-mm wheelbase, the production Toyota C-HR looks very similar to the concept version from Paris Motor Show back in 2014.
It'll have a number of engines such as hybrid and turbo petrol units. The hybrid is a 90 kW unit with a claimed consumption figure of 3.7 L/100 km while emissions are as low as 85 g/km. The 1.2-litre turbopetrol engine produces 85 kW and 185 Nm, and will consume just 5.7 L/100km, Toyota claims. The top-spec engine will be a 2.0-litre petrol unit with 106 kW. Derivatives will be equipped with either a 6-speed manual gearbox or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Competitors in this segment are the likes of the Nissan Juke, Suzuki Vitara, Renault Captur, Honda HR-V and the Mazda CX-3.
New C-HR interior will be available in a choice of three colours: Dark Grey, Black/Blue and Black/Brown.
The interior is quite eye-catching and, significantly, offers a preview of the next generation of Toyota cabins. It represents a departure for the Japanese marque and it's called "Sensual Tech", which combines "high-technology functionality" with some "fashionable style". The C-HR also uses the new Touch 2 infotainment system which, has cool features like 3D maps and Mirrorlink for your Smartphone.
Marketing spin aside, the C-HR offers a driver-focused fascia, as well as a roomy cabin, in a compact body. It certainly looks premium and a glance at the standard equipment underlines its intentions to provide a compact luxury crossover.
There's a whole host of modern safety features such as auto-braking for pedestrians, radar-guided cruise control, lane departure warning and even road sign recognition. In terms of features, there'll also be intelligent parking as well as a top-notch audio system from JBL. Heated seats, smart entry, bi-tone metallic paint and big 18-inch alloy wheels will be available for the top-spec model.
Our German spy photographers have spotted a next-generation BMW X5 undergoing testing.
Picture credit: S. Baldauf/SB-Medien
The BMW X5 SUV is due for replacement in 2018 and the Munich-based firm is already hard at work testing the new X5. Our spy photographers have provided some imagery of a new X5 protoype undergoing testing and they reveal some interesting design details that you can expect to see when the new X5 finally hits the road. Previous spy shots were early chassis and powertrain mules, but what you see here is the first mule with the new design.
The front-end of the new X5 has been completely redesigned and the spy shots reveal a production-ready grille and large air intakes set in the front bumper. The rear-end has also been redesigned with a new rear bumper and new exhausts. Expect this new BMW X5 to be launched a 2018 model year vehicle.
Volkswagen Tiguan 1.4 TSI Comfortline R-Line (2016) Review
Based on our site traffic, user interest in the new-generation Volkswagen Tiguan has not abated. It's a vehicle that appears to tick so many boxes that consumers are willing to forgive it for what appears to be a premium price positioning. Here we review the lower output 1.4-litre turbopetrol model, equipped with a manual transmission. Could it be the pick of the range?
We like: Upmarket feel & solid build, spaciousness, fuel economy We don’t like: Turbo lag, pricey, ride on 19-inch wheels
Alternatives:
For better value: Mazda CX-5 2.0 Dynamic may not be the most modern offering around, but it still looks the part and is loaded with standard features as standard. It is still R40 000 cheaper than the Tiguan, even when you forego the R-Line kit on the Volkswagen. What you don't get, however, are a few of the more modern features that make the VW so desirable. The Mazda is also not as spacious. It sells for R377 700.
For more power: The new-generation Hyundai Tucson has been selling up a storm of its own in South Africa. Available for similar money to this Tiguan is the 1.6-litre turbopetrol Executive offering (R439 900). It offers significantly more power and torque and is decently equipped. It offers an excellent warranty, but is also not as spacious as the VW.
For something with all-wheel drive: With Ford's Kuga due for a refreshment in the next couple of months, a new Honda CR-V on the way and the Kia Sportage line-up not currently offering a direct rival for this Tiguan derivative, you may also want to consider the underestimated Subaru Forester 2.0 X. Priced at R389 000, it is cheaper and more basic in terms of surprise and delight features, but it offers rock-solid build, great gravel-road ability and is more spacious and practical than you may expect.
Stepping Up
Handsome new Tiguan arguably brings previously unseen levels of desirability to its segment.
It's still too early to say whether the massive interest in Volkswagen's new Tiguan will translate into continued strong monthly sales figures. We wouldn't bet against it, however, especially considering the fact that the range must still expand to include turbodiesel models. Based on our experience with the Tiguan thus far, it is, however, very clear that the Tiguan has established new benchmarks in this segment for technology and desirability. At first glance those talents may not be regarded as traditional requirements for success in the family crossover/compact SUV segment – practicality, space and comfort have always been the pillars – but the Tiguan (and to some extent, the Hyundai Tucson), appear to have moved decisively upmarket.
Which brings us to this test unit… With its lower output engine, manual transmission, sporty R-Line bodykit and seemingly hefty pricetag. Can it cut the mustard as a "entry" premium-level offering?
How does it fare in terms of…
Design & finish?
The facia of the Tiguan, fitted here with optional digital instrumentation, would not look out of place in a premium German sedan.
In a time when SUVs and crossovers are no longer niche offerings, but seemingly the preferred choices of most family car buyers, it is only natural that fragmentation within segments will start occurring. With the Tiguan, Volkswagen has readied itself to compete strongly when this happens. In its base form, and without any of its glitzier options fitted, the Tiguan is a fairly conservative proposition that will appeal to those looking for a practical, well-made and efficient family mover. In that sense, it competes very strongly with established vehicles such as the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4 and Ford Kuga.
But this Tiguan, as you see it here, is a completely different kettle of fish. The R-Line package, which consists mainly of fender blisters, a more aggressive lower airdam treatment and striking 19-inch wheels, endows the Tiguan with significant kerb appeal. In fact, the amount of attention that this vehicle attracted during its test term was similar to what we usually experience only with exotic motor cars. A key point to keep in mind here is that the base offerings from BMW's X1 and Audi's Q3 are in no way able to compete in the style stakes with this Tiguan, yet are more expensive…
It's a similar story inside, where the design and execution are typically "modern Volkswagen". The design is straightforward, but the attention to detail and quality of finish are class-leading. There is a consistency of quality evident in the selection of plastics that the competition can't match. As is the case with most Volkswagens, the driving position is spot-on, courtesy of a wide range of adjustment on offer from the rake/reach-adjustable steering wheel, and a driver's seat adjustable for height.
Features & technology?
Easy-to-use infotainment system interface combines hard buttons and touch functionality. (optional system shown)
One of the reasons why the Tiguan boasts such star quality, is because it brings some of the most cutting-edge VW Group bits and pieces into a mainstream segment that has until now been more about meat and potatoes than caviar and foie gras. So, sitting inside a fully specified Tiguan – such as this test unit – is likely to evoke senses of achievement, status and success in its owner. That having been said, you have to pay extra for the really nice things…
As standard the Tiguan 1.4 TSI Comfortline R-Line offers an acceptable specification level, but one that is easily beaten by the competition. You get cruise control, park-distance control and a 5-inch infotainment screen that offers SD-card and Bluetooth support. Of course, air-conditioning, electric windows, auto lights/wipers etc. are all there, but there's nothing that really leaps off the standard spec page.
The options list, however, is peppered with attractive features. You can go for a sligthly larger 6.5-inch touchscreen system (R4 350) or the flagship 8-inch version with navigation (R12 000). The smart digital instrument cluster will set you back R8 000, and if you want to add head-up display (HUD), that'll be a cool R9 000. Adaptive cruise control with forward assist is reasonably priced at R5 000, the same cost as the Parallel Park Assistant. Vienna leather is pricey option at R11 850.
The lesson? Well, like the premium-badged vehicles that the Tiguan appears to be targeting, the standard specification is relatively meagre, but at least you can – if you want to and/or can afford it – enjoy the latest in automotive technology.
Practicality?
It may be stylish, but the Tiguan is also very spacious, with class-leading boot space.
The new Volkswagen Tiguan looks broader and sleeker than before, and in reality it's slightly longer and lower than its predecessor. Somehow, however, Volkswagen has managed to package the interior in such a way to give its newcomer class-leading practicality. The luggage area is vast, and is claimed to be able to accommodate 520 litres' worth of stuff. Fold down those rear seats – easily done via levers accessible from the rear – and total utility space is a claimed 1 655 litres, which outguns even the CR-V and Nissan X-Trail. Convenient hooks for shopping bags are provided on both sides of the luggage bay.
Note, however, that if you opt for the optional Dynaudio sound system (R13 000), you'll have to make do with a space-saving spare wheel. Other options worth considering, but from a more practical point of view, are the swivelling tow hitch (R7 500) and electric tailgate (R5 000).
The versatility isn't restricted to the luggage bay, though. Rear seat space is excellent, and you can adjust the amount of legroom on offer by sliding the base of the row over a range of 180 mm. Airline-style flip-up tables are provided for rear-seat passengers, replete with integrated pop-out drinks holders.
The drive?
The Tiguan's ride is firm on 19-inch wheels. It's worth considering a different wheel/tyre combo.
This Tiguan derivative is powered by the brand's lower-output 1.4-litre turbopetrol engine that delivers 92 kW and 200 Nm of torque. These figures may not appear that impressive, but in reality some of its naturally aspirated rivals offer even less torque and in theory, the VW's turbocharger should give it punch from earlier on in the rev range than those competitors. Unfortunately, this is not quite the case in the real world.
Though Volkswagen claims the maximum torque is on tap from 1 400 rpm, it is quite easy to catch the Tiguan flat-footed when a burst of power is needed – for overtaking, to name one example. Perhaps the problem is not the lack of power as much as the contrast in feel when the power is there and when it is not… Either way, you will have to make use of the 6-speed manual transmission quite often if you tend to be a hurried driver.
For what it's worth, Volkswagen claims a leisurely 0-100 kph sprint time of 10.5 seconds and a top speed of 190 kph. But these performance deficiencies are unlikely to deter potential Tiguan buyers. They're likely to be more interested in the fuel economy on offer. Volkswagen claims a combined cycle consumption figure of 6.1 L/100 km, but we achieved a real-world figure of just below 7.0 L/100 km – which is still excellent.
In terms of ride and handling, this test unit also features the R-Line package which includes a "sporty" suspension and 19-inch wheels. Consequently, the ride is on the firm side. Those family buyers willing to sacrifice some style are advised to consider the standard 17-inch wheel and higher-profile tyre combination. We're willing to bet that this will considerably improve the ride quality, given that the Tiguan rides on the same MQB platform as other new Volkswagens, all of which boast impressively supple ride setups.
Pricing & Warranty
The Volkswagen Tiguan 1.4 TSI Comfortline R-Line (manual) costs R437 000 and comes backed with a 3-years/120 000 km warranty and 5-years/90 000 km service plan. Service intervals are scheduled for every 15 000 km. For more budget-conscious, practically-minded buyers it may be worth considering the same model, but without the sporty R-Line add-ons. Specified as such, the Tiguan will cost you a somewhat more reasonable R419 000. Interestingly, this model has 17-inch wheels and plumper tyres, so you could end up paying less and enjoying a vehicle with an improved ride quality. Worth considering…
With its R-Line pack the Tiguan is a genuine premium segment contender. Without, it's a highly practical family car. Either way, a win.
Verdict
We continue to rate the Tiguan highly. Volkswagen took its time in developing this model, but the Wolfsburg-based firm appears to have read the market's requirements very well. Practicality is one piece of the puzzle, and a very important one, but besides doing the basics very well, the Tiguan also offers generous helpings of desirability and technology that this segment has not yet previously seen. It's by no means perfect – the ride is overly firm with the R-Line wheels, there's too much turbo lag and the asking price is high – but the Tiguan exudes a premium ambience that no other vehicle in its segment can (seemingly) match. In that sense, the Volkswagen appears to have successfully stepped out of the battle with its "mainstream" rivals and seems to be vying for the more hallowed scalps of the premium league (BMW X1, Audi Q3 etc.). And compared with those… the Tiguan suddenly looks like pretty decent value.
Could Hyundai be planning a smaller bakkie, too? The Korean brand has unveiled the Creta STC bakkie concept at the Sao Paulo Motor Show in Brazil.
While Hyundai is reportedly planning to reveal its production-ready Santa Cruz bakkie in the near future, the Korean automaker has taken the opportunity to introduce another bakkie concept in the form of the Creta Sport Truck Concept (STC). The unibody Creta STC is based on the new Creta crossover, which is due to arrive in South Africa during 2017 and it was designed to appeal to the younger generation living in large cities and emerging markets. The concept was created specifically with the Brazilian market in mind.
Key design features
The load bay of the Hyundai Creta STC features speakers and numerous storage compartments for convenience.
The Creta STC, however, is longer and wider than the Creta SUV it’s based on and features an extended wheelbase. The Creta STC rides on large 21-inch wheels, giving the concept a sporty demeanor.
The Creta STC features an eye-catching grille design with a finely chiselled front-end. LED headlights are fitted too and the reverse opening rear doors provide easy access to a spacious cabin.
In the load bay of the Creta STC, you will notice a set of speakers, power outlets and various storage compartments.
At this stage, there is no indication as to whether Hyundai will put the Creta STC into production. Based on the strong support Hyundai received for the Santa Cruz bakkie and with the introduction of this Creta STC concept, it’s quite evident that Hyundai is eying out the smaller bakkie segment, too, where a production version could compete in some markets with the Renault Duster Oroch and Fiat Toro.
Suzuki has a reputation for producing reliable, no-fuss cars that offer great value for money. The Japanese marque's focus has been on small hatchbacks (Celerio and Swift), but with the launch of the new Baleno, it’s moving up in size and stature.
We travelled to Belfast, Northern Ireland to drive the new Suzuki Baleno in order to get a feel for the newcomer, which is set to be launched in South Africa during the fourth quarter of 2016. The Baleno’s intended for consumers who are looking for something bigger than a Swiftbut not a sedan (like the Ciaz) or compact SUV, such as the SX4 or Vitara. Often these buyers, who seek the reliability and security of a Suzuki, have had to go elsewhere to find a vehicle that meets their "expanded" lifestyle needs. The Baleno, then, sits somewhere between the Swift and Volkswagen Golf in terms of size but will be priced in line with the small hatchbacks such as the Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Polo and Hyundai i20, to name a few examples.
New Boosterjet engine
The major news for the Baleno is that there’s an all-new engine on offer. Ford, Opel and Renault have already adopted 3-cylinder motors at the entry-level ends of their Fiesta, Corsa and Clio line-ups and Suzuki has followed suit with a 1.0-litre turbocharged unit of its own. The motor delivers peak outputs of 82 kW and 170 Nm of torque, which compares very favourably with those of its rivals. In terms of refinement, it’s particularly good and offers a smooth delivery of torque through the rev range. It’s not jerky when shifting up the gears (like some other models can be) and the five-speed manual is typical of a Suzuki 'box, with a simple, short action. The sad news for our local market is that Suzuki SA isn’t entirely sold on small turbos yet, so they plan to introduce the Baleno with the 1.4-litre naturally aspirated motor from the Swift and Ciaz. The 1.4 produces 70 kW and 130 Nm of torque – it’s a tried and tested, reliable engine, just don’t expect fireworks in terms of performance. Suzuki SA did say it plans to bring the 1.0-litre turbo to SA some time after initial introduction.
Baleno sits between Polo and Golf for size but beats both on price.
Interior
Suzuki interiors are incredibly well-made, but tend to lack a few interesting or appealing design cues. Their cabins also tend to eschew the plushest soft-touch materials in order to maintain a very keen price. The Baleno is much the same in this regard, the door inserts and transmission tunnel are finished in relatively unyielding plastics. The switchgear on the centre dashboard has a somewhat awkward layout with the air-con and fan buttons requiring quite a stretch across to the passenger’s side. The Baleno offers big-car features such as automatic aircon and a large touchscreen. This is the first chance we’ve had to interact with Suzuki’s new-generation infotainment system and it’s quite good. It’s responsive to soft touches and has an intuitive operating system. Navigation is also offered. Suzuki SA does intend bringing this infotainment system to South Africa but, again, not with the initial launch.
Touchscreen system is intuitive and sensitive. Only coming to SA later after the local launch.
Interior space utilisation is undoubtedly the Baleno's strongest suit…. The cabin definitely feels Golf-sized and the levels of leg- and headroom afforded to rear occupants are excellent. The Swift’s Achilles heel has always been its limited luggage space, but the Baleno addresses this concern with a claimed capacity of 320 litres, which slots it in above the likes of the Kia Rio and Hyundai i20 and slightly below the Golf in terms of loading practicality.
How does it drive?
The Baleno drives smoothly and comfortably, much like the Swift. It rides bumps well and cushions jolts and road creases impressively. The Suzuki is based on a new lightweight platform (it weighs a mere 950 kg).That’s quite a lot less than those of its rivals and makes the newcomer feel quite agile and spirited in urban driving conditions. The lightweight nature also translates in excellent claimed fuel economy figures. Suzuki says the 1.0 turbo should consume 4.5 L/100 km on the combined cycle and over our test route around Ireland we achieved 5.5 L/100 km, so it appears to be a particularly fuel efficient engine.
It drives and rides well, and it's also quite light at only 950kg.
We also got to see some of the technologies that Suzuki makes available in its overseas models. The British-spec Baleno comes with high-end safety technology such as radar braking, which will warn the driver if a collision is imminent and then automatically brake if it determines a collision is unavoidable. That’s pretty impressive for a B/C segment hatchback. There’s even adaptive cruise control on the top-spec model, which is unusual for this segment, too.
In local terms
Initially, the Suzuki Baleno will come to South Africa with the 1.4-litre naturally aspirated motor. It will also not have the touchscreen infotainment setup, but a simpler audio system comparable to that in the Ciaz. It will be just as spacious, drive well and the 1.4-litre has proved itself to be quite fuel efficient (if a little sluggish) at altitude. As far as pricing is concerned, Suzuki plans to be aggressive with its introduction. The firm reckons it will be able to launch the newcomer around the R200 000 to R220 000 mark. That compares impressively with smaller rivals, such as the Hyundai i20, Kia Rio and is on par with the Mazda2. The Baleno is also bigger, more spacious and similarly equipped to those competitors. It seems like it will be a good deal when it arrives.
Spy Shots: Alfa Romeo’s Stelvio SUV is ready
The first and long-awaited Alfa Romeo SUV has been spotted undergoing final development testing in Italy, ahead of its international unveiling at the 2016 Los Angeles Auto Show. Here's what we know about this vehicle so far.
Photos by S.Baldauf / S.B. Medien
Alfa Romeo as a global brand is undergoing a serious revamp and is upscaling its product offering over the next few years. We were in attendance when the Alfa Romeo Giulia broke cover in Milan and witnessed a new brand identity emerge. Of course, there have been numerous promises of a full product offensive since the introduction of the now ageing Alfa Romeo MiTo and Giulietta, but it would appear that the ball is finally about to start rolling. After the international launch of the Giulia sedan, the range expansion has been confirmed to include an SUV, rumoured to be called the Stelvio.
The Stelvio seems to take its design cues from the new Giulia sedan. It should be a real looker!
The Alfa Romeo Stelvio has been heavily delayed, but finally, we have news that it will be unveiled at the 2016 Los Angeles Auto Show. It will be taking on a hot segment and will have to beat the BMW X3, Audi Q5, Jaguar F-Pace, Mercedes-Benz GLC and Porsche Macan. That's illustrious company to be in, so Alfa will have to make sure that its Stelvio can match them.
The Alfa Romeo Stelvio will ride on the Giulia platform and will feature an extensive line-up of engines. We reckon we'll see the full complement of motors ranging from four-cylinder petrol and diesels, to the mighty 2.9-litre biturbo V6 seen in the Giulia QV. We'll have more details when the vehicle is fully revealed next week.
