Mercedes-Benz E-Class (2025) Review

The demand for executive sedans may be dwindling, but the 6th-gen Mercedes-Benz E-Class is undoubtedly a frontrunner in what is now a niche in the new vehicle market. The turbodiesel-powered E220d AMG Line illustrates that point rather well…

We like: Exquisite ride quality, highly efficient powertrain, classy and upmarket cabin.

We don’t like: Conservative image, overload of onboard tech, pricey options quickly add up.

FAST FACTS

  • Model: Mercedes-Benz E220d AMG Line
  • Price: R1 541 260 (January 2025)
  • Engine: 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel
  • Transmission: 9-speed automatic
  • Power/Torque: 145 kW/440 Nm 
  • 0-100 kph: 7.6 sec (claimed)
  • Claimed fuel consumption: 5.0 L/100 km
  • Luggage capacity: 540 litres

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Where does the Mercedes-Benz E-Class fit in?

Considering that the vast majority of new-car buyers now favour crossovers and SUVs, you’d be forgiven for thinking that the era of premium (business-, executive- and 1st-class) sedans is well and truly over; the composition of luxury automotive brands’ products certainly reflect that fact: Mercedes-Benz SA’s SUVs outnumber their sedan siblings 10 to 7, while Q- and X models dominate Audi and BMW’s line-ups.

A vibrant red exterior finish, white leather and AMG wheels add up to quite the visual statement!

That said, there’s still a small, stubborn portion of buyers that will insist on nothing other than a plush and comfortable executive sedan. Let’s not forget the commercial aspect: a compact sedan will get you to your destination, but when you fork out for an Uber Black, you want to be ferried in a prestige vehicle!

This 6th-gen (W214) Mercedes-Benz E-Class’ exterior design incorporates some novel – and intricate – styling cues. The Sindelfingen-based brand is renowned for derivative designs (it tends to adhere to its design language strictly: models tend to look like smaller versions of the products directly above them).

But the W214, though not outlandish, looks sufficiently distinctive to its ‘Benz sedan siblings, plus it’s endowed with lovely design details, such as the Three-pointed Stars embedded in the LED tail lights.

What are the rivals to the E-Class, then? With just a handful of premium sedans left, we’ve narrowed down the alternatives to the BMW 5 Series and Audi A6. Not long ago, you could also consider the Lexus GS, Volvo S90 and Jaguar XF, but they have been discontinued and/or superseded by SUV models.

Compare the specs of the Mercedes-Benz E220d to the BMW 520d and Audi A6 45TDI

How the Mercedes-Benz E-Class fares in terms of…

Performance and Efficiency

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class is available in 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbopetrol and -diesel guises. The petrol-fed E200 (150 kW/320 Nm) kicks off the range, but its turbodiesel sibling is the subject of this review.

Note the LED taillamp clusters with the integrated Three-pointed Stars.

The turbodiesel engine delivers 145 kW/440 Nm and it’s supplemented by a 48V mild-hybrid system that takes the power up (briefly) to 162 kW. With our test equipment hooked up and the sportiest drive mode engaged, the E220d produced a 0-100 kph time of 7.42 sec (fractionally quicker than Benz’s claim).

Granted, turbodiesel engines have been lambasted abroad for emitting more harmful gases than their petrol counterparts, but you cannot ignore the exceptional fuel efficiency of modern “oil burners”. This E-Class variant could, in theory, travel 1 320 km on a single (66-litre) tank, but that doesn’t sound too far-fetched. After testing the E220d, which arrived with a full tank, for 2 weeks, we had clocked up over 900 km, but despite several stints of enthusiastic driving, it still indicated 250 km worth of range by the end.

With more open-road driving, you’ll see this number dip under 5 L/100 km.

Some of our industry colleagues have reported incredible fuel-efficiency figures for this variant (numbers in the low 4 L/100 km range, particularly when driving on the open road). However, according to our test on our dedicated fuel-economy route, which admittedly has an urban bias, the E220d returned 5.5 L/100 km, which is a touch higher than Mercedes-Benz’s claimed figure (5.0 L/100 km), but still impressive.

The E220d balances economy and performance beautifully.

The 9-speed automatic transmission shifts very smoothly almost all of the time and the ‘box seems well-calibrated with the mild-hybrid powertrain. However, with 9 ratios to shuffle through, the E220d can hesitate if you suddenly demand full acceleration, because the car’s computer takes a moment to work out which gear to select to deliver full thrust, along with summoning EQ boost from the 48V system.

The E220d offers 3 drive modes, plus the chance to configure powertrain settings individually.

And, the ‘Benz’s 48V mild-hybrid system is highly effective. The start/stop is barely noticeable – delayed restarts (where the engine takes just a millisecond too long to get going again) have been eliminated. It’s instantaneous, and there’s more than enough electric power to facilitate pullaways for a few seconds.

The electric assistance benefits economy because accelerating from a standstill would otherwise use a lot of fuel. It also helps to keep the turbocharger spooled up (thereby mitigating lag) and the instrument cluster indicates when that extra shove, which benefits overtaking ability, is being sent to the wheels.

Practicality and Features

The Mercedes-Benz (W214) E-Class has a smart-looking cabin and, given the space and comfort it offers its occupants, the E220d is one of those vehicles that prompts the question: “Do I want to drive or shall I be chauffeured?” Irrespective of your decision, you’re going to experience refinement galore.

Rear passengers are afforded ample leg- and headroom, and benefit from individual climate controls, as well as USB-C charging ports. When it comes to luggage space, the E-Class’ boot is said to have a 540-litre capacity, which is a fraction more than those of the equivalent BMW 5 Series and Audi A6 models.

There is no shortage of rear occupant space in the E220d.

The E220d cabin exudes a futuristic look and feel. We suspect it may be a bit intimidating to the typical E-Class buyer (a more mature and less tech-savvy person who will find the array of screens and icons offputting). Our test unit had the optional MBUX Superscreen, which spans about 2 thirds of the fascia.

When you have to fork out R1.5m to acquire a new executive sedan, you’d (rightly) expect its cabin to deliver plushness and superior levels of fit and finish. Well, the E-Class ticks those boxes, which is a welcome contrast to other recent high-end Mercedes-Benz models that have, um, marginal finishes.

How many screens does one need? Yes.

When we used Mercedes-Benz SA’s online configurator to mimic the specification of our test unit as closely as possible, we worked out that the E220d AMG Line, as we tested it, was fitted with options to the value of almost R600k, which would give it a total price of almost R2 million! This may sound crazy, but remember the W214’s GLE SUV equivalent starts from R1.9 million and, while that model offers a bit more space and performance, you’d still have to option that up to the same level. Where would that end?

Indeed, numerous options were ticked on the E220d AMG Line we tested and we’re grateful Mercedes-Benz SA decided to go all-out – how else would we be able to test all the unique and high-end features? But we did ask ourselves: “Are all of these options worth it?” Some, like the 3D effect instrument cluster and illuminated grille, are a bit gimmicky… and don’t befit something as stately as an E-Class, do they?

The selfie camera is located on the top of the dashboard.

One of the features we simply don’t understand is the E-Class’ selfie camera (for front occupants). We assume this could be for online meetings, but in our opinion, the last thing we want to do while driving is join a Zoom/Teams conference call! But, by all means, tick the boxes for the Burmester audio, ventilated seats, and engineering pack, that’s the rear-wheel steering and air suspension (more about that later).

It so happens that the E-Class is reasonably specified as is: nice-to-have features such as smartphone integration, wireless charger, heated front seats, and adaptive high-beam are standard. By the way, the Mercedes-Benz online shop will do its best to match your configurator spec with a car that’s already in stock, thus negating potential shipping delays that may occur if you customise a car extensively. Neat.

Our vehicle came specced with the Premium Plus Package, but you can individually option some of these items.

Ride and Handling

Sedans may have fallen out of fashion, but in their most elevated guises, they offer far more involving and resolved driving experiences than their favoured high-riding (and relatively ponderous) SUV peers. The W214 E-Class is no exception in this regard and, while dynamism isn’t a core focus of the package, the ‘Benz’s suspension tune and rear-wheel-drive setup make it a reasonably engaging car to pilot.

Drivers who spend a lot of time on the road will appreciate just how comfort-oriented the E-Class is. Few cars can crush kilometres and long hours (with the driver and passengers still feeling reasonably fresh by the end of the journey) quite like the E220d. Wind-, engine- and road noise are efficiently suppressed.

These wheels look sensational

Our test unit was specified with what Mercedes-Benz terms the Engineering Pack, which includes air suspension and rear-wheel steering. While they’re marketed as comfort- and manoeuvrability-enhancing features, they also made our E-Class float along beautifully – few cars at this price point ride this well.

AMG Line trim includes sensational-looking 20-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 245/40 R low-profile tyres –the only thing that would enhance the ride quality is opting for a smaller tyre wrapped in thicker rubber.

The capacitive controls on the steering wheel are still mildly annoying.

The other principal benefit of rear-wheel steering is that the sizeable E-Class doesn’t tantamount to a cumbersome cruise liner when you’re trying to parallel park the vehicle. The rear wheels can turn a few degrees in the opposite direction, which allows the E220d to execute tighter turns.

That said, the array of cameras and sensors fitted to the car negates most of the stress associated with parking, in any case. Once up to speed, the rear wheels turn in the same direction as the front wheels; in that scenario, the system optimises both the ‘Benz’s agility and body-roll suppression.

Excellent 360-degree cameras make tricky parking manoeuvres much less stressful.

Price and After-sales support

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class E220d AMG Line costs R1 541 260 (January 2025). That price excludes options but includes a 2-year/unlimited km warranty and a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan.

See also: Mercedes-Benz E-Class Specs & Prices in South Africa

Verdict

The E220d is an exceptional offering, but has the market moved on from high-end sedans?

Mercedes-Benz is well aware that the executive sedan segment is past its prime, but the well-resolved 6th-gen E-Class is nonetheless an exceptional offering. It may not be as engaging to drive as its Bavarian rival – the 5 Series – but dynamic handling ability is hardly a prerequisite for success in this segment.

Yes, our test unit was loaded with a dazzling array of screens and tech, which is all a bit intimidating. However, if you look past the gizmos and take the ‘Benz for a drive, you’ll find a particularly refined, efficient and luxurious sedan beneath it all. Compared with the brand’s more popular SUVs, such as the GLE, the humble E-Class quietly starts to look like great value. Oh, and in a final plaudit for the E220d’s stellar powertrain, we conclude this review with: “Long live the modern turbodiesel engine, long live!”

Further Reading

All the latest Mercedes-Benz news and reviews

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SA’s best-selling double-cab bakkie of 2024 revealed!

Which double-cab bakkie was South Africa’s best seller in 2024? Well, we have the dual-cab sales figures as well as those for single- and extended-cab 1-tonne bakkies…

You’ve likely already seen our list of South Africa’s best-selling bakkies overall for 2024. But what happens when we break down the figures by body style? Well, that’s exactly what we’re going to do here, allowing us to crown Mzansi’s most popular double-cab bakkie for 2024.

Let’s dive right into the sales statistics. According to figures kindly supplied by Lightstone Auto, the Ford Ranger retained the title of SA’s best-selling double-cab bakkie last year, with 20 078 units sold. By our maths, that represents 78.6% of the nameplate’s overall total for 2024 (and, according to the Blue Oval brand, a 33.4% share of the dual-cab segment).

Ford says as many as 1 930 units of the Raptor were sold in SA in 2024.

Fascinatingly, Ford says that double-cab figure includes a considerable 1 930 units of the Raptor (which is imported from Thailand rather than built alongside the other Ranger derivatives at the local Silverton plant), meaning this 292 kW performance bakkie outsold Ford’s entire single-cab portfolio.

The Toyota Hilux – which will later in 2025 be offered in widebody Legend 55 guise – thus had to settle for 2nd place in South Africa’s double-cab rankings, with 15 322 units registered last year. Based on our calculations, dual-cab sales comprised 46.9% of the Prospecton-built bakkie’s overall tally for 2024. 

As expected, the Isuzu D-Max – which looks set to benefit from a facelift (and perhaps even a new engine option) this year – completed the double-cab top-3 last year, with the Struandale-made bakkie ending on 7 965 units. That works out to 42.0% of the D-Max’s overall figure for 2024.

Lightstone Auto’s figures furthermore showed that all other 1-tonne double-cab bakkie derivatives – excluding the Ranger, Hilux and D-Max, that is – collectively managed 16 681 units in 2024.

SA’s top-selling single- and extended-cabs in 2024

Toyota’s Hilux topped SA’s single-cab sales charts in 2024.

What happened in the single-cab space? Well, the Toyota Hilux was again South Africa’s best-selling 1-tonne single cab last year, with 12 161 units registered. The Isuzu D-Max single cab snatched 2nd place with 9 037 units, while the 2-door version of the KwaZulu-Natal-assembled Mahindra Pik Up completed the single-cab top 3, with 6 610 units sold. The Ranger single cab, meanwhile, finished the year on just 1 702 units.

The Toyota Hilux reigned supreme in the extended-cab segment in 2024, too, finishing the year on 5 161 units. Next came the Ford Ranger (3 772 units), followed by the Isuzu D-Max (1 971). For the record, these are the only 3 bakkies offered locally in this so-called “cab-and-a-half” body style.

As a reminder, the Hilux remained SA’s best-selling bakkie overall (so, all 3 body styles combined) last year, despite sales falling 12.6% year to year to 32 656 units. The Ranger took 2nd place, improving 3.8% year on year to 25 553 units. That meant the D-Max again completed the podium, with its registrations growing 0.1% to 18 973 units.

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Updated Toyota GR Yaris for SA: more power and auto ‘box

The updated Toyota GR Yaris is scheduled to launch in South Africa in March 2025, arriving with more power and torque as well as an automatic transmission…

Toyota South Africa Motors has confirmed that an updated version of the Toyota GR Yaris is scheduled to launch locally in March 2025. The big news? The Japanese firm’s small hot hatch gains even more power and torque, along with an 8-speed automatic torque-converter transmission.

At its recent 2025 State of the Motor Industry (SOMI) address in Gauteng, Toyota SA Motors announced plans to introduce the revised GR Yaris before the end of Q1 2025. As a reminder, the current GR Yaris launched locally in mid-2021, before the range was halved to just a single high-spec “Rally” derivative around a year later.

While the outgoing SA-spec version of the all-paw hot hatch is equipped with a 6-speed manual gearbox and offers 198 kW and 360 Nm from its turbocharged 1.6-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine, the updated version boasts peak outputs as high as 210 kW and 400 Nm – and switches to a “newly developed” 8-speed automatic transmission.

Interestingly, that maximum power figure is down on the Japanese-spec model’s 224 kW but up slightly on Europe’s 206 kW tune. It’s not yet confirmed whether Toyota SA Motors will retain the option of a manual cog-swapper in the revised GR Yaris line-up or opt for an auto-only approach, though we’ve heard rumblings the 3-pedal version will fall away locally.

Toyota says the new self-shifting ‘box’s close-ratio gears “make the most of the engine’s power band”, while the transmission boasts “world-class” shifting speeds thanks to the use of “highly heat-resistant friction material” in the clutch and “enhancements” to the control software. The company has yet to reveal a claimed 0-100 kph time, but it will undoubtedly beat the current manual version’s 5.5 seconds.

According to the Aichi-based automaker, the all-paw hot hatch’s driving position has been lowered by 25 mm, while forward visibility has ostensibly been improved by moving the rearview mirror to the top of the windscreen and lowering the upper edge of the central cluster by 50 mm. Furthermore, the control panel and display have been tilted 15 degrees towards the driver.

In terms of exterior styling, the updated 3-door model (revealed in January 2024) features revised designs for its lower grille and front bumper, while the rear lower garnish has been tweaked for improved aerodynamics. The taillamps likewise benefit from mild revisions and the high-mounted brake light has been separated from the rear spoiler.

Local pricing for the updated model has yet to be confirmed, though it’s worth keeping in mind the outgoing GR Yaris 1.6T GR-Four Rally comes in at R848 600. We suspect Toyota SA Motors will again receive only a small allocation; in 2024, for reference, the company registered just 11 examples of the GR Yaris in Mzansi.

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Cheapest Compact SUVs Under R300k

Are you looking for the cheapest Compact SUVs available in South Africa with a budget under R300k?

Do you have up to R300 000 to spend on one of South Africa’s cheapest compact SUVs?

The demand for affordable compact SUVs is surging in South Africa and car manufacturers are meeting that demand with a flurry of new products, giving consumers lots of choice across a broad price range. 

Times are tough and many consumers will be eagerly eyeing out the lower end of the compact SUV market for an affordable and compact urban runabout. This list, therefore, focuses on the cheapest compact SUVs available for under R300k. Let’s take a look at what’s available!

Pricing is accurate as of January 2025.

Cheapest Compact SUVs under R300k in South Africa

1. Nissan Magnite – From R246 200

Nissan MAgnite

An updated Nissan Magnite came to market in November 2024. Two engines are offered including a naturally aspirated 1.0-litre petrol engine with 53 kW and 96 Nm of torque and a more powerful 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder turbopetrol engine delivering 74 kW and 152 Nm of torque when paired with a CVT or 160 Nm in conjunction with a 5-speed manual transmission.

Read our review of the Nissan Magnite

Buy a new Nissan Magnite on Cars.co.za

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2. Renault Kiger – From R249 999

Renault Kiger

The new Renault Kiger is one of the cheapest compact SUVs you can buy right now and is offered with 2 engine choices including a naturally-aspirated 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder engine with 52 kW and 96 Nm as well as a more powerful turbocharged 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder engine with 74 kW and 160 Nm. A 5-speed manual transmission and a CVT are available for both engines. 

Read our review of the Renault Kiger

Buy a new Renault Kiger

Buy a used Renault Kiger on Cars.co.za

3. Mahindra XUV 3XO – From R254 999 

Mahindra’s familiar XUV300 compact SUV recently received an update and has now come to market as the new XUV 3XO!

See also: Mahindra XUV 3XO (2024) Price & Specs

The Mahindra XUV 3XO features a bold design and is powered by the firm’s mStallion turbocharged petrol 1.2-litre motor with 82 kW and 200 Nm on offer and paired with either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. The XUV 3XO is available in base MX2 time, mid-spec MX3 guise or in range-topping AX5 (and AX5L) or AX7L guise.

Buy a new Mahindra XUV 3XO on Cars.co.za

Buy a used Mahindra XUV 3XO on Cars.co.za

4. Citroen C3 – From R259 900

New Citroen C3

Citroen has introduced the new C3 to market to woo local buyers and the C3 comes fitted with a naturally aspirated 1.2-litre petrol engine with 61 kW and 115 Nm of torque and is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission.

A turbocharged C3 is also available from R299 900 and is offered with a 3-cylinder 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine with 81 kW and 205 Nm in conjunction with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Read our Citroen (2023) C3 Launch Review

Buy a new Citroen C3

Buy a used Citroen C3

5. Hyundai Exter – From R269 900

Hyundai Exter - Cheapest Compact SUVs in South Africa

The new Hyundai Exter recently came to market and it’s already proving to be popular in South Africa with strong opening sales.

The newcomer is powered by a naturally aspirated 1.2-litre 4-cylinder petrol that produces 61 kW and 114 Nm and comes paired with either a 5-speed manual transmission or a 5-speed automated manual transmission (AMT). Trim grades include the base Premium, mid-spec Elite and top-spec Elite derivatives.

Buy a new Hyundai Exter on Cars.co.za

Buy a used Hyundai Exter on Cars.co.za

6. Chery Tiggo 4 Pro – From R269 900

Chery Tiggo 4 Pro

The Chery Tiggo 4 Pro is proving to be quite popular in this segment and buyers shopping with a budget under R300k can consider the Tiggo 4 Pro LiT derivative. The Chery Tiggo 4 Pro range is powered by a 1.5-litre petrol engine with 83 kW and 138 Nm. Power goes to the front wheels via a 5-speed manual gearbox.

Read our review of the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro

Buy a new Chery Tiggo 4 Pro on Cars.co.za

Buy a used Chery Tiggo 4 Pro on Cars.co.za

7. Suzuki Fronx – From R298 900

Suzuki Fronx

Suzuki recently introduced its new Fronx crossover to the market to complement its growing range of affordable cars. The Fronx is powered by a naturally-aspirated 1.5-litre petrol engine with 77 kW and 138 Nm of torque and can be had with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission in either GL or range-topping GLX guise.

Also see: What to Buy: Suzuki Fronx vs Chery Tiggo 4 Pro vs Nissan Magnite

Read our launch review of the new Suzuki Fronx!

Buy a new Suzuki Fronx on Cars.co.za

Buy a used Suzuki Fronx on Cars.co.za

BMW M3 CS Touring Locked in For SA

The M3 CS Touring has been officially revealed, bring even more performance to the table, plus it’s confirmed for a SA market introduction!

After a short, yet intense teaser campaign via social media, the BMW M3 CS Touring has been officially revealed. The debut took place at the Mount Panorama Circuit in Australia as part of the Bathurst 12 Hour race weekend.

CS is all about enhanced performance and weight saving, with a splash of exclusivity as the production run is generally limited. But, let’s talk about that engine first. The 3.0-litre turbocharged 6-cylinder petrol engine’s outputs have been increased from the standard car’s 390 kW up to 405 kW, while the torque remains the same at 650 Nm.

M3 CS Touring rear

Thanks to a quick-shifting 8-speed transmission the new M3 CS Touring is said to dash to 100 kph in just 3.5 seconds. It’s just not about the straight-line stuff either as BMW has fitted the CS Touring with a bespoke chassis tune, some eye-catching carbon fibre reinforced plastic bits that both look good and save weight, as well as the option of carbon ceramic brakes and ultra-track tyres.

M3 CS Touring interior

Step inside and you can see right away this is not your standard M3 Touring. The M3 CS Touring features M Carbon bucket seats, carbon fibre gear shifters on the steering wheel, and some of the interior has been replaced by carbon fibre, saving around 15 kg.

The BMW M3 CS Touring can be ordered with a paint finish in British Racing Green, Laguna Seca Blue, Frozen Solid White or Sapphire Black metallic, and because its a CS model, the daytime running lights are yellow, to remind everyone this is not your standard run-of-the-mill vehicle.

M3 CS Touring seats

When will the BMW M3 CS Touring arrive in South Africa?

According to BMW Group SA, the South African market introduction is planned for the first quarter of 2026. BMW has not said how many units it will be making and we know already that CS units are limited. The last version was the M4 CS and SA received just 25 units, so if you want one of these, we suggest making your intentions known and prepare a deposit.

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BMW M3 CS Touring Teased Ahead of Imminent Arrival

As if the standard M3 Touring wasn’t aggressive enough, the M division is preparing an even hotter BMW M3 CS Touring. Here are some early details.

We’re expecting the new BMW M3 CS Touring to be formally revealed very soon, based on BMW M’s daily posting of camouflaged prototypes. But what exactly is a CS?

Essentially the CS is a more powerful and lighter version of an M product and while the vehicle has yet to be revealed, we’re confident it will follow the same formula as the already on-sale BMW M3 CS and M4 CS – both of which are available in South Africa in limited numbers.

The standard Touring makes 390 kW and 650 Nm from its 3.0-litre 6-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine. The BMW M3 CS Touring is likely to make 405 kW and 650 Nm, thanks to the same forged lightweight crankshaft, 3D-printed core cylinder head, replumbed oil system and cooling, as well as increasing the turbochargers boost pressure from 1.7 to 2.1 bar.

Image from www.bmwblog.com

Performance will be brisk, with the BMW M3 CS Touring likely to hit 100 kph in 3.4 seconds – quicker than the standard car’s 3.6. It’s all about the carbon fibre and lightweight handling performance, with an M precision strut across the engine bay, a titanium exhaust with black matte pipes, CFRP engine bonnet, CFRP roof, M carbon bucket seats in red and an Alcantara steering wheel.

Expect near-identical seats from the M4 CS in the CS Touring

Visually, expect the same yellow LED daytime running lights and CSL-style tail lights as the standard BMW M3 CS and M4 CS. We will not be surprised if BMW offers the same Michelin Cup 2R semi-slick tyres. Given the social media posts on the Nurburgring, we’re expecting BMW M to try break its own production car lap record for station wagons. Back in 2022, the standard M3 Touring went around in 7 minutes 35 seconds.

2025 will be a busy year for BMW M as the M2 CS will be following on from this hot Touring derivative, and let’s not forget there’s potentially an M5 CS to come by the end of the year too.

Typically, the CS derivatives are exclusive, with limited production runs. The M3 CS had a production run of fewer than 2000 units and just 1 700 units of M4 CS were built. As a reminder, just 25 of the latter made it to South Africa.

Further Reading

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New Lexus LX 700h for SA: what to expect

The new Lexus LX 700h will soon launch in South Africa, headlining a raft of changes to the Japanese firm’s luxury SUV range. Here’s what we know so far…

The new Lexus LX 700h is scheduled to launch in South Africa in February 2025, bringing hybrid power to the LX line-up – which will furthermore benefit from a raft of updates, including the debut of an Overtrail grade – for the very first time.

Toyota South Africa Motors confirmed the imminent arrival of the new LX 700h as well as a broader update for the overall LX range (which, you’ll remember, is closely related to the Land Cruiser 300) at the recent 2025 State of the Motor Industry (SOMI) address in Gauteng.

The LX 700h on stage at SOMI 2025.

As a reminder, the current LX portfolio – orders for which opened locally back in May 2022 – comprises 5 derivatives, presently running from R2 517 500 to R2 997 400. Pricing for the LX 700h has yet to be announced but this new hybrid version will likely arrive as the most expensive Lexus SUV yet.

From what we understand, the new LX 700h will effectively replace the petrol-powered LX 600, with the diesel-driven LX 500d (225 kW and 700 Nm) expected to remain. While the outgoing LX 600’s twin-turbocharged 3.4-litre V6 petrol motor generates 305 kW and 650 Nm, the hybrid derivative predictably offers more oomph.

The LX 700h is seen here in Overtrail guise.

According to Toyota SA Motors, the LX 700h’s newly developed “1MT-HEV” powertrain – which integrates a motor generator with a clutch positioned between the twin-turbo 3.4-litre V6 petrol unit and the 10-speed automatic transmission – offers peak system power of 341 kW. While the petrol engine alone generates 650 Nm, it’s our understanding that total system torque comes in at around 790 Nm.

Claimed fuel consumption figures have yet to be announced. The hybrid battery is located in the rear floor within a “waterproof tray” divided into upper and lower sections. This design, says the automaker, “effectively prevents water ingress during deep water crossings, ensuring a fording capability of 700 mm”.

A look at the newly developed hybrid system for the LX 700h.

What about the rest of the LX range? Well, while the “F Sport” and “VIP” trim levels look set to carry over, the “Urban” grade will seemingly fall away in favour of a new “Overtrail” specification (as applied to the incoming Lexus GX).

This fresh Overtrail grade is set apart by a dark grille and matte-grey alloy wheels, while various other exterior components – from the fog-lamp surrounds, roof rails, wheel-arch mouldings, door handles, side-mirror caps and rear-bumper garnish – likewise feature darkened tones.

The new 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.

A new “Moon Desert” paint colour will also be exclusive to the Overtrail trim level. In addition, Overtrail derivatives will ship standard with front- and rear differential locks (in additional to the centre diff lock), likely along with all-terrain tyres.

Other updates to the LX line-up include various revised driver-assistance systems, a new 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, an upgraded wireless smartphone charging pad and an “Advanced Park” system (complete with remote function) exclusive to the hybrid.

Check back soon for more details, including local pricing…

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Sibling rivalry: Which Ford Everest V6 to choose

The Ford Everest is distinguished from other Adventure SUVs in various ways, such as having 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel variants in its line-up. But should buyers who need all that torque in their lives opt for a Platinum, or save money and get a Wildtrak instead?

It’s hard to believe the 3rd-gen Ford Everest has been around for more than 2 years. Like its predecessor, the Ford is still battling to knock the (now decade-old) Toyota Fortuner off its perch atop the sales charts despite the fact it’s a comparatively more advanced model than its Japanese rival. FMCSA doesn’t see it that way, though: it suggests the Ranger-based 7-seater is an alternative to the Land Cruiser Prado.

Ford Everest V6 in range-topping Platinum guise

Out of the starting blocks, at its launch, Ford went straight for the jugular by introducing a halo model that the Fortuner (and indeed the pricier new Prado) range so painfully lacks: a V6 turbodiesel engine, then solely fitted to the flagship Platinum derivative, which now retails for R1 278 000 (January 2025).

Six months later Ford added another V6-engined variant, but in Wildtrak trim. The variant, the subject of my recent Ford Everest Wildtrak (2024) Living with it article, is listed at R1 199 500 (January 2025).

Ford Everest V6 in 2nd-from-top Wildtrak guise

Under the skin, the sibling Ford Everest V6 derivatives are indistinguishable, which means both feature a maximum power output of 184 kW and 600 Nm of torque from a throaty 3.0-litre mill paired with a silky 10-speed auto transmission and permanent 4WD, deployable through 6 selectable traction modes.

The only real point of mechanical distinction is the Platinum’s choice of footwear – more “streetable” or “catwalk-friendly” 21-inch alloy rims with 275/45 tyres against the Wildtrak’s 20s (on 255/55s).

Ford Everest V6 Wildtrak alloy wheel

Although the variance in rubber size, amounting to a few millimetres horizontally and vertically, is seemingly insignificant, it’s one of the few tools available to Ford to characterise the allegedly more-adventure focused Wildtrak differently from the more urbane (by FMCSA’s admission) Platinum.

(To complicate matters that little more, dedicated all-terrain 18-inch tyres (255/65) are an optionally available factory-fit for both versions).

Platinum swops colourful stitching for more spec

It’s inside, where, mainly invisible owing to unseen tech features, the Platinum pulls off its more premium billing with greater credibility. Not that the Wildtrak is wanting, but then at 7 figures – it really shouldn’t.

Ford Everest V6 Wildtrak interior

The Ford Everest 3.0TD V6 4WD Wildtrak‘s long list of standard features includes dual-zone climate control, wireless charging pad and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity, keyless entry, leather seats (of with the front ones are electrically adjustable), a 12-inch infotainment touchscreen, automatic wipers and LED headlights with high-beam assist, lane keeping assist, blind spot warning, an electrically-powered tailgate, tow bar, dual sunroofs, reverse camera and FordPass telematics connectivity.

The Ford Everest 3.0TD V6 4WD Platinum (of which the front of the cabin is shown below) adds a 12.4-inch digital cluster, a 12-speaker B&O audio system, heated/vented front seats (with a memory function for the driver), a heated 2nd row and an electrically operated 3rd row of seats.

Ford Everest V6 Platinum interior

For the R78k saved by foregoing a Platinum, Wildtrak buyers also lose out on a heated ‘wheel, adaptive cruise control, a 360-degree camera system, automatic parking and trailer reversing assistance.

Of these – at a stretch, the climatic seats offer a welcome respite in extreme climates, but their absence is hardly a deal-breaker. The rest of the Platinum’s “over and above” features are, well, nice-to-haves.

Everest V6 decision time: Wildtrak or Platinum?

Unequivocally, the Wildtrak’s biggest appeal lies in the availability of a V6 engine at a marginally lower price. Ford could have specced it lower, say in Sport grade (which is solely available in conjunction with a 157 kW 2.0-litre 4-cylinder bi-turbodiesel powerplant for R1 079 500 (January 2025), but had the V6-powered Wildtrak been any cheaper, nobody would have given the Platinum flagship a 2nd look.

All of this leaves the Ford Everest 3.0TD V6 4WD Wildtrak in no man’s land as an almost accidental prodigy. It’s the girl next door rather than the cheerleader; the better-looking bridesmaid than the bride: both V6 variants are equally talented, but like for like – and, essentially, feature-per-rand – it’s hard to make a case for the Platinum when compared to the same-cylindered, similar-performing Wildtrak.

David Taylor discusses the finalists of the 2025 CarsAwards Adventure SUV category:

Only when viewed against the closer-priced Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, which starts at R1 296 300 (January 2025) and, crucially, lacks a V6 engine in its line-up (unlike its upcoming Lexus GX cousin), does the Ford Everest 3.0TD V6 4WD Platinum start to make more sense, rationally and financially.

We’ll wrap it up thus: Is the Ford Everest Platinum a knuckle-dragging Ford faithful’s fumble, or a thinking man’s Prado? I’ve told you which one I’d have, now put your money down and pick your path.

Find a new/used Ford Everest listed for sale on Cars.co.za

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Defender Octa (2025) International Launch Review

The Defender Octa demonstrates the extremes to which JLR’s engineers are willing to push the model to show how capable they can make it without compromising on- or off-road ability. We got to grips with it on the Cederberg’s endless gravel roads.

What is a Defender Octa?

Defender Octa in Rocks
With its wider track and higher ground clearance, the Octa is just about unstoppable off-road.

The name Octa comes from the shape of a diamond, a precious mineral that the brand hopes to emulate with the Defender’s hardiness and desirability. The Defender Octa is a showcase of what JLR can do with this platform and the types of technology it can incorporate to differentiate itself from rival brands.

This technology comes in the form of a sophisticated air suspension system (which I’ll go into later), a powerful V8 turbopetrol engine, as well as an Octa drive mode that allows for controlled launches on dirt (yes, you read that correctly) with an extra 50 Nm of torque available for those lightning fast pull aways.

To add to the uniqueness of the Octa, the model also gets a large price hike (it costs R3.5 million), a wider track (68 mm wider) and more ground clearance (28 mm higher). JLR says the Octa has been subjected to 1 300 more tests than the standard model, including more time on gravel at high speeds and on road durability.

Defender Octa Engine

Defender octa power
The BMW M-sourced V8 provides smooth and ample power delivery.

JLR may have shelved its venerable supercharged 5.0-litre V8, but that doesn’t mean it will be outdone in the power department – the 4.4-litre twin-turbopetrol V8 under its bonnet is sourced from BMW. The engine did duty in the previous generation BMW M5, X5 M and X6 M to mention a few models. With peak outputs of 467 kW and 750 Nm of torque (800 Nm in launch mode, remember?), the Defender Octa rockets when accelerating from any speed. Zero to 100 kph takes just 4.0 seconds! It’s mind-boggling how a 2.5-tonne SUV that’s essentially shaped like a Maersk container gets to 100 kph that quickly.

While there is plenty of power and torque on demand, the Defender Octa’s performance never feels brutal or uncontrollable, the linear acceleration and smooth V8 feel are perfectly matched to a car this size without making it feel like the engineers tried to make a performance SUV in the way Mercedes-Benz make a GLE 63 S or BMW make an X5 M. Compared with its Teutonic peers, the Octa uses its high-power delivery more subtly, and it’s also refreshing that JLR went the route of a higher capacity engine here. If it had opted for a 4-cylinder powerplant with a complex hybrid system, I don’t think it would have had the same smoothness and luxurious delivery even if the power outputs had been higher.

What’s the Octa like to drive?

Defender Octas
You can still add all the accessories to the Defender Octa.

Now, let me attempt to explain the Defender Octa’s trick suspension setup in the easiest way possible. Land Rover has always promoted air suspension and, as time has gone on, one would expect that JLR has made the systems better and more reliable (you hope). The Octa takes air suspension to another level. Where there would usually be a management system for compression and rebound, the Octa has a 3rd management system that controls pitch and roll. What this means is that the Octa does without anti-roll bars (stabiliser bars), which gives it better ground clearance and allows for more wheel articulation.

While quite a technical system, it’s immediately noticeable when you start driving the Defender Octa. Its body control on-road, especially on twistier routes, is excellent and then when you ramp the speed up on gravel it’s undeniably the most controlled riding vehicle I’ve ever experienced.

Over the 3 days of driving the Octa, we traversed the Cederberg mountain range multiple times. During this arduous journey, the newcomer traversed every kind of dirt road condition imaginable – from smooth to washboard to downright rocky – and the reduced body roll means you don’t get thrown around in the cabin nearly as much as in a traditional off-roader; it leaves you far less fatigued after long driving days.  

Octa in mud
The increased ground clearance improves the Octa’s wading depth to over 1 metre.

You can also engage Octa mode via a button on the bottom of the steering wheel, which to me felt like a Sport mode for gravel. It pumps up the engine and exhaust note and makes the throttle more responsive.

In a way, this is the closest you’re going to get to a Dakar spec Rally Raid car from a production vehicle. There were times when we truly “stretched the legs” of the Octa on the vast dirt roads, sliding the car into and out of the corners, exploring just how controlled the Octa’s body is under extreme conditions.

These almost abandoned areas represent a playground that doesn’t exist for performance cars outside of a race track. Obviously, if you get it wrong out here, there is little in the way of assistance or cell signal. Our Defender Octas were fitted with the optional Goodyear 3-ply casing 33-inch diameter tyres on 20-inch wheels that look like the design was borrowed from a Lancia Delta rally car (I am in favour of this).

Defender Octa interior upgrade

Defender Octa seats
The new sports seats with the khaki finish are less temperature-sensitive than leather.

Given its rarefied performance and abilities, the Octa has some special features inside. The seats have been upgraded to sports seats that offer more lateral support (for when you’re doing your best Dakar drift impression). The seats also have a new fabric finish, which is more breathable and comfortable in the heat than traditional leather.

Aside from that, the Octa isn’t much different from the standard vehicle on the inside. There’s plenty of space within the cabin to store things, a multitude of USB ports to charge devices and a fridge in the centre console, which is more than handy on those 40-degree days in the Cederberg! 

How much does a Defender Octa cost in SA?

Defender 110 P635 OctaR3 499 100
Defender 110 P635 Octa Edition OneR3 749 100

The prices (January 2025) include a 5-year/100 000 km warranty and a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan.

Summary

Octa landscape
Certainly more subtle the a G-Wagon but more comfortable and certainly just as capable.

The initial Defender Octa production run is limited to just 2 000 units, 50 of which have been earmarked for the South African market. The entire first production run has been sold, but there is the intention of creating more Octa production runs in the coming years. The Octa is a statement vehicle (or halo model) for Land Rover; it showcases what can be produced when the price point doesn’t need to be kept down. 

Its multi-terrain ability is 2nd to none and while we can’t yet speak to the reliability of its extremely fancy, but also extremely effective, air suspension, the body control and improvements and stonking V8 engine combine into a special, even bespoke, driving experience. In an era where it’s difficult to access the full performance capabilities of sportscars, the Octa raises the question: Can you have similar levels of fun off-road? The answer, found on the very empty roads and trails of the Cederberg, is a resounding: “Yes!”

Most Fuel Efficient Diesel Cars in SA (2025)

We’ve compiled a series of articles dedicated to fuel efficiency because it’s one of the most important criteria to factor into your decision when looking to buy a new car. Here are the most fuel efficient diesel cars currently available in South Africa!

The most fuel efficient diesel cars in South Africa are well worth considering, if you can afford them! With fuel prices consistently on the rise in South Africa, new car buyers will be wise to place increasing emphasis on fuel efficiency when shopping for a new car.

Also see: Most Fuel Efficient Petrol Cars in SA (2025)

A fuel-efficient car will help you save money at the pumps over time and diesel cars are generally considered to be more frugal than their petrol-powered counterparts. The amount of fuel you save while driving will depend on a number of critical factors including your driving style, road conditions and mechanical condition of the car, to name a few. It is also worth noting that the list below is compiled based on manufacturer claimed fuel consumption figures and real-world consumption will vary. 

Prices are accurate as of January 2025.

Most Fuel Efficient Diesel Cars in South Africa

1. Mercedes-Benz CLA 220d – 4.4 L/100km

The Mercedes-Benz CLA received a subtle facelift in 2023 and C220d is powered by a  2.0-litre turbodiesel engine that produces 140 kW and 400 Nm with a fuel efficiency claim of  4.4 L/100km. An 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission is standard. The CLA is offered in 2 trim guises including Progressive, priced from R969 256 and the AMG Line from R998 956.

Buy a Mercedes-Benz CLA on Cars.co.za

2. Mercedes-Benz A200d sedan – 4.5 L/100km

Most fuel efficient Diesel cars in SA

The facelifted Mercedes-Benz A200d sedan employs a 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine with 110 kW and 320 Nm and is paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Mercedes-Benz claims 4.5 L/100km.

The A200d Progressive sedan is priced from R970 614 while pricing for the A200d AMG Line starts from R1 000 314.

Buy a used Mercedes-Benz A-Class on Cars.co.za

3. Mercedes-Benz C220d – 4.7 L/100km

Mercedes-Benz claims the third position on this list with its 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine proving to be the most efficient, this time applied in the mild-hybrid C-Class sedan with 147 kW and 440 Nm and paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. This engine is said to return 4.7 L/100km.

Pricing for the Mercedes-Benz C-Class C220d starts from R1 134 587.

Also see: W205 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sedan (2014-2021) Buyer’s Guide

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

4. BMW 2 Series 218d and 220d – 4.8L/100km

BMW 2 Series

The new BMW 2 Series came to market in 2022 and the diesel-powered 218d and 220d are particularly efficient with BMW claiming 4.8L/100km.

The 2 Series can be had in either Gran coupe or Coupe guise and the 2.0-litre turbocharged 218d offers 110 kW and 350 Nm while the 220d offers 140 kW and 400 Nm. Both engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Pricing for the BMW 2 Series 218d Gran Coupe starts from R745 373 while the 220d Coupe is priced from R905 037.

Buy a BMW 2 Series on Cars.co.za


BMW 420d Coupe – 4.8 L/100km

BMW 4 Series

The BMW 420d Coupe employs the same 140 kW / 400 Nm 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine that’s found in the BMW 2 Series (see above) and it too is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The 4 Series is offered as a Coupe, Gran Coupe or Convertible.

BMW claims a fuel consumption figure of 4.8 L/100km for the 420d Coupe (priced from R1 045 373) while the 420d Gran Coupe (priced from R1 046 044) claims 5 L/100km.

Buy a BMW 4 Series on Cars.co.za

Renault Duster 1.5 DCi Zen Automatic – 4.8 L/100km

Renault Duster

An all-new Renault Duster is due to arrive in South Africa in coming weeks but the outgoing Duster is still listed for sale and the outgoing 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine has long been praised for its excellent fuel consumption and performance credentials. Power outputs for this engine are 80 kW and 250 Nm and Renault claims an impressive 4.8 L/100km when this engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic.

Pricing for the Renault Duster automatic starts from R451 999.

Buy a Renault Duster on Cars.co.za

BMW 3 Series 320d – 4.9 L/100km

BMW 3 Series LCI

An updated BMW 3 Series arrived in South Africa in October 2024 and the diesel-powered 320d delivers 140 kW and 400 Nm from its 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine and is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Note that this engine is also found in the BMW 2 Series and 4 Series (see above).

Pricing for the BMW 3 Series 320d starts from R960 877.

Buy a BMW 3 Series on Cars.co.za