What Car Would Santa Drive?

If Santa didn't have a sleigh, which vehicle would he drive? Lightstone Auto believes it has the answer!

Lightstone Auto has an arsenal of data and statistics for the automotive industry, which is why we partnered with them for the Cars Awards. On a lighter note, Lightstone Auto believes it knows which vehicle Santa would drive if he didn't have a sleigh. Using the vast data available and Santa's likely requirements, let's have a detailed look at which vehicle would be most suitable.

The Criteria

It has to be red. Obviously.

Only passenger and LCV vehicle models were considered.

When considering a larger vehicle model like a double cab, SUV, MPV or a Cross over vehicle model, it was narrowed down to 6 113 red vehicle models available for sale in South Africa.

With the risk of deep vein thrombosis being a reality, combined with the requirement to wear tight stockings, an automatic is a must. Imagine the leg ache if Santa had to use a clutch, manually navigating the traffic in small coastal towns. This reduced the potential candidates to 2 800 red vehicle models that are automatic.

With the big white beard, a furry suit, a heat-inducing fur-lined hat, and a sack full of presents, getting hot in the car is a real problem. It is summer in SA after all! So air-con is a must.

ABS brakes are key as stopping with precision is needed. Lightstone Property says the average size of a residential roof in SA is only 143 m2. Anti-skid control is required to ensure dodging of the numerous solar panels and satellite dishes on each roof.

ISOfix child seat attachments are needed in case he needs a small elf to join him on his travels.

With potholes and Joburg traffic lights that go out, and bearing in mind storms that may hit Pretoria, there was a need for a 4×4 – which resulted in 1 252 red vehicles to choose from.

Cruise Control for the long stretch of seriously boring road between Bloemfontein and Beaufort West.

Engine size – bigger than a 2 litre motor takes us down to 371 vehicle models. He needs the power if he is to deliver all the presents on time.

The Candidates

Make	Type	Model	Engine Size	How Many Sold YTD Oct 2015
BMW	BMW X4	X4 xDrive20d 4×4 Dsl AT	2	61
JEEP	JEEP Grand Cherokee	Grand Cherokee 6.4 SRT 4×4 8-sp AT MY14	6,4	57
LAND ROVER	L-R Range Rover Evoque	Range Rover Evoque 2.2 SD4 Dsl Dynamic 4WD MY13 AT	2,2	56
BMW	BMW X3	X3 xDrive20d Dsl 4×4 MY14 AT	2	40
MAZDA	MAZDA CX-5	CX-5 2.2 DE Akera AWD MY15 AT	2,2	38
FORD	FORD Kuga	Kuga 2.0 EcoBoost Titanium AWD MY15 AT	2	35
JEEP	JEEP Wrangler	Wrangler Unlimited 3.6 Sahara 4×4 AT	3,6	28
NISSAN	NISSAN X-Trail	X-Trail 2.5 SE 4×4 CVT MY14	2,5	20
TOYOTA	TOYOTA RAV	RAV4 2.2 VX AWD Dsl MY14.5 AT	2,2	14
AUDI	AUDI Q3	Q3 quattro RS 2.5T FSI 228kW S-Tronic MY15	2,5	11
SUBARU	SUBARU Forester	Forester 2.5 XS AWD MY13 CVT	2,5	11

To carry all those presents, a huge boot is a requirement which narrows down these finalists a little further. Specifically, a boot capacity of at least 500dm3 would be appropriate. Finally, we're all trying to be kinder to the environment so something that's not a gas-guzzling powerhouse would be preferable. Also, the vehicle will only be used once every year. The boot space and fuel consumption factors weeded out more cars and eventually we were left with the following:

Make	Type	Model	Engine Size	2015 YTD Oct	Price (approximately)
BMW	BMW X4	X4 xDrive20d 4×4 Dsl AT	2	61	R598 000
LAND ROVER	L-R Range Rover Evoque	Range Rover Evoque 2.2 SD4 Dsl Dynamic 4WD MY13 AT	2,2	56	R636 000
BMW	BMW X3	X3 xDrive20d Dsl 4×4 MY14 AT	2	40	R520 000
SUBARU	SUBARU Forester	Forester 2.5 XS AWD MY13 CVT	2,5	11	R 354000

So there you have it. If Santa had to take a car as opposed to his usual sleigh, these are the four vehicles that are deemed the most suitable for his requirements. We would favour the X3 over the X4, while the Range Rover Evoque brings a sense of style and prestige for the North Pole resident. That said, given the harsh and cold environment of the north, perhaps the iconic all-wheel drive Subaru Forester would be best.

Lexus Brings Updates to NX, RC and LS

Three models in Lexus’ range have received updates and improvements to their standard specification, in order to provide greater comfort, convenience, style and performance.

The models included in the upgrade roll-out comprise the NX Compact SUV, RC 2+2 Coupe and the LS sedan.

Wireless charging for NX

The NX receives a subtle boost to its spec level with the addition of a wireless cell phone charger for all three grades (E, EX and F Sport). Utilising Qi technology, a compatible smartphone can be recharged wirelessly by placing the device on the charge pad.

The range-topping F Sport model receives Blind Spot Monitoring that also includes Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

Turbo power for RC

The RC Sports Coupe line-up has been bolstered with the addition of a derivative powered by the 2-litre turbocharged engine recently introduced in the IS sedan range. The engine makes a decent 180 kW and 350 Nm. This new engine works in tandem with an eight-speed automatic gearbox. The model will be badged as the RC 200t.

The RC 350 F Sport will continue to top the range with its V6 naturally aspirated powerplant doing the work under the bonnet.

Enhanced Multi-media for LS

The range topping LS luxury sedan is the final model in the trilogy to receive an update.

The LS's multi-media system has been overhauled, with functionality, ease-of-use and display improvements. The 31cm TFT multi-media system still uses Lexus’ Remote Touch Interface, with ergonomic improvements in the form of dual sided ‘enter’ buttons in addition to a ‘back’ feature.

There is also the ability to display the satellite navigation map across the entire width of the screen, with the option to switch to a 20cm sectioned display, to allow two sets of information on the screen simultaneously.

Pricing and Line-Up

NX 200t E R552 300

NX 200t EX R593 100

NX 200t F Sport R683 700

NX 300h EX R647 300

RC 200t EX R649 000

RC 350 F Sport R730 900

LS 460 R1 453 400

Next Mercedes-Benz E-Class Interior Revealed (Video)

Mercedes-Benz is starting to really get into its stride with the release of images detailing the interior of the next-generation E-Class, due to be unveiled next year.

It looks to have combined elements of the current S-Class and C-Class whilst adding a bunch of new touch technologies. The E-Class is set to make its debut appearance at the Detroit motor show in January 2016.

Big Screens

The most eye-catching new feature is the digital instrument cluster that combines with the infotainment screen. The screens are actually separate but both measure 12.3-inches and are capable of 1920×720 pixels. This is only available as the top-spec option and standard models get a traditional analogue binnacle with an 8.4-inch infotainment screen.

Touch pad steering controls

The E-Class will be available with touch sensitive controls on the steering wheel. These controls will allow the driver to swipe through functions within the infotainment system, meaning more tasks can be completed whilst hands are on the wheel.

In addition to the touch control buttons and the touchpad, the driver can use the COMAND controller and LINGUATRONIC voice control to manipulate the infotainment system. The driver can choose at any time which input method he or she prefers.

LED lighting

The interior has been lined with LED lights that save energy and can be ordered in up to 64 different colours. LED lights have also been used extensively for the exterior lighting. Mercedes claims that the rear lights can be optionally specced to look like the Milky Way or the glow of a jet engine.

The overall design of the interior looks very suave and sophisticated but also extremely familiar to the current C-Class.

E-Class Interior Video

Renault Clio 1.2 EDC (2015) Review

The Renault Clio is a stylish and fashionable city car that initially offered a modern turbocharged engine and a wealth of equipment. What it lacked was an automatic gearbox, which Renault has addressed with this new model.

There’s a lot to like about the Renault Clio. As a consequence of a reasonably thrifty turbocharged engine, generous levels of specification and a decent pricetag, the Renault Clio has sold well in South Africa. We’re a fussy bunch however, and the trend towards automatics is ever increasing. Unfortunately Renault hasn't had an automatic in the Clio until now and this allowed Volkswagen, Ford and Hyundai to grab hold of this particular segment.

Engine and Gearbox

This is the Renault Clio 1.2 EDC. Unlike its Clio siblings, this one has an uprated 1.2-litre four-cylinder engine as opposed to a 0.9-litre three-pot. Power is rated at 88 kW, while torque comes in at a useful 190 Nm. Fuel economy is quite good too with a claimed rating of 5.2L/100km. In reality, we were achieving around the 7.5L/100km mark.

Then there’s the focal point of this story: the transmission. Renault has its own twin-clutch transmission. It’s called EDC (Electronic Dual Clutch) and this system has been received with mixed opinions by the journalists for this very website. The EDC ‘box neutered the wildchild RenaultSport Clio and there’s a distinct lack of involvement and responsiveness. This is a "normal" Clio, however, and the requirement for sharp responses is therefore significantly less.

The gearbox is a six-speed dual-clutch and there are no paddles located behind the steering wheel. First impressions are mixed. Off the line, there’s plenty of hesitation, but once you’re moving it’s fine. Gearshifts aren’t the smoothest though, but we’d put this down to being spoilt by the excellent DSG transmission from Volkswagen Group.

Ride and Drive

Once you’re moving and in the right gear, the Clio drives well and makes full use of its hefty torque to make open road cruising rather pleasant. The car is more responsive and much more enjoyable to drive when you have the gear selector pushed into the manual mode, which then overrides the automatic functionality. You then change gear by pushing the lever up and down, much like a race car's sequential transmission.

The rest of the Clio impresses, too. It has a mildly sporty drive and the ride is comfortable. The Clio is kitted out with 16-inch alloys and tyres with plump sidewalls, and the suspension does a reasonable job of soaking up bumps. Despite the rear wheels having drum brakes, stopping power is good and you feel safe when throwing out the anchors.

Specification

Renault has never been shy when throwing equipment into the Clio and the 1.2 EDC Expression also comes well equipped. The standout feature is the touchscreen infotainment system which also features satellite navigation with traffic safety features. There’s USB, Aux and Bluetooth connectivity which can all be operate by controls located behind the steering wheel. They’re quirky to use at first, but soon become second nature. Cruise control with a speed limiter is thrown in as well, and the air conditioner does a fine job of keeping you chilled in the summer heat.

Being a Renault, safety is a high priority and this particular Clio comes with many features to keep you safe. There’s stability control, ABS and four airbags fitted as standard. The vehicle also scored 5 stars in the Euro NCAP crash test. It’s interesting to note that in terms of rivals, the Honda Jazz has six airbags, while the Volkswagen Polo has the option of six.

The cabin itself is a nice place to be and the ergonomics are good. Materials used do feel a little cheap and there are some areas where you feel disappointed in the tactile nature of the interior. That said, you’re not paying that much money for a well-equipped car of this nature so we’d be prepared to cut it some slack.

Summary and conclusion

Having an automatic model in a popular segment is a no-brainer and it’s strange that Renault waited so long to introduce it. While the gearbox itself is not exactly cutting edge or groundbreaking, it gets the job done and those who require an automatic gearbox in a stylish city car are unlikely to find fault with it.

In summary, the Renault Clio EDC is not the best automatic compact car, but it’s the best Renault Clio. If you’re wanting a slicker transmission, then look to the Volkswagen Polo TSI, but be prepared to pay substantially more. The Ford Fiesta 1.0T has the most the powerful engine out of these three, but it too is more expensive than the Clio, with less features.

Renault Clio 1.2 EDC Price in South Africa

The Renault Clio 1.2 EDC retails for R234 900 and the price includes a 5-year/150 000km mechanical warranty, 6-year anti corrosion warranty. Service intervals are every 15 000km and you get a 3 year/45 000km service plan.

Test team opinion

The Clio automatic is a solid addition to the range. The 1.2 adds a bit more fizz to the drive and the automatic makes it easier in traffic. Renault would do well to upgrade the dual-clutch system though, as it can be slow to get moving and jerky at times. -Ashley Oldfield

We Like: Design, specification, engine, price

We don’t Like: Some minor trim quality issues, gearbox is not as responsive as rivals

Also consider: Ford Fiesta 1.0T Titanium automatic, Volkswagen Polo 1.2 TSI Highline auto, Honda Jazz 1.5 Dynamic auto

Compare the Clio to the Ford Fiesta and Volkswagen Polo here.

Mazda MX-5 (2015) Review

The Mazda MX-5 is a driver’s car and it’s only fitting that we headed for the sweeping roads hugging the Western Cape mountains and even dropped the top for a few sun-soaking moments.

The Mazda MX-5 is the world’s best-selling roadster. Every time Mazda decides to release a new one we can’t help but get a little (or very) excited about the purity that a simple, well-designed and built sports car offers up.

Looking to buy a 2025 Mazda MX-5? This review will help you make an informed buying decision.

We Like: Great design, sportscar thrills and open top fun

We don’t Like: Small boot, a tad expensive

Also consider: Toyota 86

Compare the Mazda MX-5 with the Toyota 86 here

2015 Mazda MX-5: The new bits

This latest MX-5 is not too different from its predecessors in basic design, so see it more as a fine-tuning of an already polished product. The new model is, however, some 100kg lighter than before and also 105mm shorter. So in a sense, it represents a return to the purity of the original. Mazda is aiming to make sure it delivers the lightweight sportscar thrills its customers want without breaking the bank on price. The exterior design is a highlight as it rolls in looking like a slim and athletic red ninja… No wonder that it has become a finalist in the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards Design of the Year category.

Under the bonnet

Under the bonnet the simplicity continues – there is no modern turbocharged engine to deliver buckets of torque low down or make spirited whistling sounds as you climb through the revs. Instead, there is a reliable 2-Litre naturally aspirated motor. It delivers 118 kW and 200 Nm of torque, which is actually slightly less than it makes in the Mazda3. Don’t be too concerned though, because the MX-5 is not about power and acceleration thrills, but about the driving experience and fun factor. The engine feels more than capable of delivering thrills, hauling the MX-5 to 100kph in 7.3 seconds and topping out at 214kph. The other thing about lightness is that consumption figures are improved. The MX-5’s 2-Litre uses just 6.7L/100km and even after a week of ‘spirited’ driving our test unit still returned around 9L/100km.

Thanks to a short-levered six-speed manual gearbox, you can really wring the neck of the new MX-5. It likes to rev and the accompanying soundtrack is pleasing in the mid ranges. To get the best out of the MX-5, you have to work the engine and gearbox all the time, keeping the powerplant on the boil. You’re constantly going up and down the gears and it’s so engaging and before you know it you’re at the end of a 15km mountain pass.

U-turn, repeat…

Turning the tables

The first thing you notice when you fire up the MX-5 and get going is how easy and quickly you get to grips with it. Mazda says the seating position is lower in this model, but for a sportscar, it still feels quite high. The Toyota 86 is much lower by contrast. The slightly higher driving position gives you good visibility when looking through corners and actually makes it more manageable when driving around town. The MX-5’s party trick is its handling characteristics. It has always been fun, but not scary and gives sportscar thrills to those who can’t afford something like a Porsche 911. It delivers on this feel-good factor in heaps.

While most pure sportscars can be harshly sprung and set up for the racetrack, the MX-5 feels like it was developed to drive on regular roads. There’s a bit of give in the suspension and it is more comfortable on bumpy roads than expected. The extra softness means that it leans a little from side to side, but because it’s so light it doesn’t feel like it hinders the dynamics at all. In fact, the MX-5 loves to whip from corner to corner, the tighter the better.

Roof down

There’s no talk about how many seconds it takes to put the roof down in the MX-5, but that’s because it’s so simple. You pull a latch at the front of the roof and it releases. From there it almost springs open and a quick push or pull by hand and it clicks into place. While enduring a heat wave in Cape Town, the MX-5’s open top drive is just as good and with the new edgier styling it attracts a lot of attention.

Life inside the Mazda MX-5

When making a bare bones sportscar, it’s often easy to forget the creature comforts and build something that’s as empty as a freezer before payday. The MX-5 is well-equipped and Mazda has brought in a highly specced model for South Africa. The infotainment system is good and can be used through either the touchscreen or a rotary knob in the centre console. The cabin is quite tight, but there’s still a small storage bin behind the driver’s left arm and cup holders are detachable. Seats, steering wheel and gear lever are all clad in black leather with a hint of red stitching to add some life to the cabin. The boot measures in at only 130-litres which is just enough for an overnight bag. Don’t go planning any long road trips with more than one night on the schedule.

The new model also improves in the safety department with a stronger underpinnings. Four airbags are crammed into the cabin and there’s collision avoidance systems like ESP and ABS with EBD.

Verdict

The MX-5 continues the simple formula created some 25 years ago by the original car. It is lightweight, has acceptable power and a fun chassis to exploit. It’s entirely addictive to drive and feels faster through the bends than the speedo sometimes suggests. It still remains a great choice for the enthusiast and has the added bonus of being able to drop the roof to add more delight to the drive. The only real competition is the Toyota 86 and that’s a hardtop-only model. Both offer up an overdose of fun with the 86 being a more slidey product where the MX-5 prefers not to break traction easily. Pricing is also extremely similar, so the choice is even tougher to make.

Mazda MX-5 price in South Africa (2015)

There’s just one model in the MX-5 range and it’s set at R389 800.

Buy a Mazda MX-5 on Cars.co.za

Test team opinion

While I wasn’t particularly sold on the looks, I really appreciated the refreshing simplicity of this little sportscar. It’s most enjoyable to drive and there’s nothing complicated about it. The feel-good factor is through the roof. I also liked how quickly you can manually close the roof if the summer sun gets a little too hot. This is proof right here that money can buy you happiness. -David Taylor

Frequently Asked Questions

What engine is available in the Mazda MX-5 in South Africa?

The Mazda MX-5 is powered by a 2.0-litre, naturally aspirated petrol engine that produces 118 kW and 200 Nm of torque. It is typically paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission in the South African market, although some models have been sold with a manual gearbox.

Is the Mazda MX-5 a good sports car?

The Mazda MX-5 is considered one of the best affordable sports cars on the market. It is praised for its lightweight design, rear-wheel-drive configuration, and balanced handling, which prioritize the driving experience over outright speed. It is a popular choice for driving enthusiasts and is often a top seller in its class.

Does the Mazda MX-5 come with a service plan and warranty in South Africa?

Yes, all new Mazda models, including the MX-5, come with a 5-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty and a 5-year/unlimited-kilometre service plan in South Africa. This provides comprehensive coverage and peace of mind for owners.

What are the main competitors of the Mazda MX-5?

The Mazda MX-5 competes with other compact sports cars, but due to its unique combination of price, rear-wheel drive, and convertible top, it has few direct rivals. Its closest competitors include the Toyota GR86, Subaru BRZ, and potentially entry-level premium sports cars like the BMW Z4 or Porsche 718 Boxster.

Drag Race: Audi S3 (Tuned) vs Audi RS6 (Stock)

We've always wondered whether a tuned Audi S3 could come close to the mighty Audi RS6 Avant. Can it? Watch the video!

As a young(er) man, I was very fortunate to have an E30 BMW 320i passed down to me. With all my accumulated wisdom and maturity of my 18 years on this planet, I immediately fitted a free-flow exhaust. It sounded amazing. That straight six blowing through a pipe large enough to canoe through made me deliriously happy.

And then I changed the air filter. Which of course made the car faster (in my mind, mostly). It also destroyed the hot air sensor and caused me about 6 months of frustration before a friend’s dad worked out what it was. He hit me over the head with my air filter and that was that.

I upgraded the sound system next but by this stage, the sound system was needed to drown out that awful exhaust note. Yes, the same exhaust note that had once been so arousing was now a drone; an annoying and constant background track to every journey.

It was around this time that I became a motoring journalist and started to experience how exceptional modern cars could be. I adopted a rather dim view of modifying cars. My time in this industry has taught me that car makers go to incredible lengths to ensure their cars are safe, powerful, comfortable and reliable.

To my mind, fiddling with cars which are the result of billions spent on R&D is folly.

Until I came up against the Wulfchiptegnik Audi S3.

This is the sort of tuning I can get behind. Proudly South African development, with no oily rags and botched transplant jobs. Just a laptop and a genius.

And so when Charl of Wulfchip gave us a call and thought his personal S3 could give the new RS6 Avant a run for its money, we thought, why not?

You’ve seen the RS6 in action here on Cars.co.za already, impressively losing to the new all wheel drive Jaguar F-Type R. We all fell in love with the big wagon and its abilities, and surely it wouldn’t lose to its lighter, highly uprated smaller sibling.

Specs: Audi S3 tuned by Wulfchiptegnik vs Audi RS6 Avant

	Audi S3 Wulfchiptegnik Stage 1	Audi RS6 Avant
Price	R566 000 (R9000 for Stage 1)	R1 465 000
Engine	2.0 litre 4-cyl turbo petrol	4.0 litre V8 twin turbo petrol
Power	260kW (206kW stock)	412kW
Torque	500Nm (380Nm stock)	700Nm
0 – 100km/h	4.0 seconds (Estimate)	3.9 seconds
Top speed	Limiter moved to 300kph	250km/h (limited)
Fuel economy		9.8 litres/100km (claimed)
Boot space	Quite a bit	Quite a lot

Facelifted Toyota RAV4 (2015) First Drive

The facelifted Toyota RAV4 launched in South Africa this week and we headed towards Mozambique to give it a drive!

Following the introduction of the fourth generation RAV4 back in 2013, Toyota now welcomes the refreshed RAV4 to market in South Africa. Toyota RAV4 sales have been climbing steadily over the last two years and the model is currently leading the sales charge against competitors such as the popular Hyundai ix35 and Ford Kuga with a 12% share of the compact SUV pie. Toyota hopes to keep the good times rolling with this refreshed RAV4 and to ensure its future success, the RAV4 now features revised exterior and interior styling and additional convenience and safety goodies to keep it relevant and attractive to buyers.

Fancy Looks

The look of this latest RAV4 has been refined somewhat with the addition of LED headlights and a noticeably slimmer and macho-looking front-end. The front and rear bumpers have received some love too and rocker panels down the side and roof rails allude to the RAV4’s adventurous side. The rear-end is noticeably chunky and the tailgate is now lower than before and should make loading items a bit easier while the LED rear combination lights round off the revised look.

The RAV4 is available in two trim levels namely GX and VX. In GX trim, the RAV4 rides on 17-inch split spoke alloy wheels and is also kitted out with front and rear mud flaps, automatic headlamp levelling, rear parking camera and Daytime Running Lights. The RAV4 in VX trim wears 18-inch alloy wheels and adds a rear parking camera with guideline display, front park distance control and a powered tailgate with memory function.

Interior Details

Toyota says that much effort has gone into improving the sensory quality of the interior and this seems to be the case when stepping inside the RAV4. Toyota has paid particular attention to materials and general control layout, which not only makes the interior more pleasant but easier to use too. We found the interior to be rather appealing and the seats are comfortable too, with good support and side bolstering. Interior build quality is good and there’s now storage space for your favourite sunglasses and the cup holders are now improved.

Vehicle information is communicated to the driver via a 4.2-inch colour multi-information display and infotainment is taken care of via a larger 7-inch touch screen that houses various functions such as the Radio/CD player, Bluetooth, rear-view camera, trip data, vehicle information, climate control and ambient lighting settings. A USB port is close at hand, just in case you need charge or connect your external media and all models also feature a 12V socket for rear seat passengers.

Standard features for GX derivatives include fabric seat upholstery, electric windows, manual air-conditioner, remote central locking with automatic door locking function and a multi-function steering wheel. VX derivatives get leather seats with the driver’s seat being electrically adjustable. Automatic dual-zone climate control and cruise control is also included and the rear camera display features guidelines to help you park safely.

RAV4 Engine Choice

The refreshed RAV4 range features the same engine line-up as before and kicks off with a 2.0-litre petrol engine that offers 107 kW and 187 Nm of torque in the front-wheel drive 2.0 GX derivative. Buyers have the option of a 6-speed manual transmission or a 7-speed CVT transmission for the 2.0 GX.

Next up is a 2.2-litre diesel engine that offers 110 kW and 340 Nm of torque mated to a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission powering all four wheels. This engine offering is available in both GX and VX trim.

The RAV4 range tops out with the 2.5-litre petrol engine that delivers 132 kW and 233 Nm through a 6-speed automatic transmission powering all four wheels. Toyota’s Dynamic Torque Control AWD system takes care of traction by managing torque transfer between the front and rear wheels depending on the driving situation. This feature, along with a rear locking differential proved invaluable when tackling the tough sandy roads which are so common in Mozambique.

In terms of safety, the RAV4 comes well equipped with 7 airbags, ABS with EBD, Brake Assist, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control and Trailer Sway Control.

How does the Toyota RAV4 Drive?

The RAV4 2.2D fitted with a 6-speed manual transmission was our chariot of choice in the dash for the Mozambican border. The rural roads from Mkuze airport to the border are rather treacherous with bumps, people and animals posing a continuous risk and the RAV4 got straight to business by dispatching bumps and imperfections in a comfortable and composed manner. The suspension was on the firmer side but even on the bumpiest dirt road you could imagine, the RAV4 held its own surprisingly well.

The 2.2 diesel engine pulled well and had sufficient power for overtaking. Switching over to Sport mode makes the RAV4 even perkier when more response is required but driving in this mode will have a negative impact on consumption. Fuel consumption for this 2.2 diesel model is rated at 5.6L/100km but you can expect in upwards of 9L/100km in real world conditions. The 6-speed transmission was good too and gear changes were smooth and effortless, delivering a decent drive overall.

Once in Mozambique, there was no sign of tar and thick, soft sand welcomed us. With the differential lock engaged, the AWD system was hard at work ensuring that we didn’t bury ourselves in the sand. As a soft-roader, the RAV4 seemed to be punching way above its weight but it coped well under the conditions and we were mightily impressed with how the vehicle glided over the sand. Despite the rough terrain, the cabin held up well, with no creaking to be heard, which is testament to the apparent build quality.

We also managed to sample the top-spec 2.5-litre VX derivative with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The transmission allows the driver to focus more on driving when in battle with the sand and this model performed well on the tar too. Funny enough, it didn’t feel as responsive as the 2.2-litre diesel derivative but still performed adequately with smooth gear changes and good acceleration. For heavily congested city roads, the automatic route is possibly the better choice but opt for the manual if you enjoy extracting the most performance from the engine.

Summary

Overall, the RAV4 has good manners out on the road and is surprisingly capable when the going gets tough even though it’s not considered to be a hardcore 4×4 offering. While the engines have remained the same, the new interior is comfortable, well equipped and interior build quality is to be appreciated. Based on the two derivatives driven on launch, ride quality is good too with decent performance on offer. The 2.2-diesel derivative with its slick shifting 6-speed transmission was the standout on the day. We will have the RAV4 on test over the holiday period so look out for a full evaluation coming your way soon.

Toyota RAV4 Price in South Africa

RAV4 2.0 GX MT – R327 700
RAV4 2.0 GX CVT – R338 800
RAV4 2.2D GX MT –R409 900
RAV4 2.5 AWD VX 6AT – R457 000
RAV4 2.2D AWD VX 6AT – R487 400

The RAV4 comes standard with a 3-year / 100 000km warranty and a 5-year / 90 000 km service plan. ToyotaCare Roadside Assistance Programme is also included and offers 24-hour roadside assistance.

CARS.CO.ZA Consumer Awards – Game Changers Of The Year

Following the announcement of the first Special Awards category last week – Design of the Year – we are pleased to introduce another new Cars Awards category, namely for Game Changer of the Year.

Whether we’re talking sales volumes, technology, brand perception or simply vast improvement, game-changing products have one thing in common – they’ve made a significant impact. “To determine the finalists in this category the judges debated the merits of all new vehicles launched in South Africa during 2015,” says Cars.co.za Consumer Experience Manager, Hannes Oosthuizen. “We reached consensus on the inclusion of only three vehicles, the BMW i3, the Volvo XC90 and the new Ford Everest,” he continues.

“All three these cars have shaken things up, but in very different ways,” Oosthuizen adds. This is the second nomination for BMW’s i3 (also a finalist in Design of the Year), and the inclusion of the XC90 makes the big Volvo the most nominated car of the inaugural Cars.co.za Consumer Awards programme. The XC90 is a finalist in Premium SUV of the Year, Design of the Year and now also Game Changer of the Year.

The Ford Everest arrived on the market too late to be included in any of the product categories, but was an easy choice for Game Changer, as it so dramatically moves the goal posts in the bakkie-based SUV category, a hugely popular segment in South Africa.

The winner will also be announced at a glittering Awards event to be held in Johannesburg in January 2016. For more information, go to www.carsawards.co.za.

Volvo XC90 – PERCEPTION SHIFTER

It’s not often that a new vehicle arrives to such universal acclaim as the Volvo XC90. With a string of international awards in the trophy cabinet already, the XC90 looks set to add to the collection in the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, as it is nominated in no fewer than three categories. With its high-tech new line-up of four-cylinder engines, superb cabin design and build quality, it is more than merely another premium SUV, it is a brand perception changer.

Big, premium SUVs usually make use of large-capacity engines. Volvo, however, has made the bold decision to equip the XC90 with 2,0-litre four-cylinder engines only. Turbocharging, supercharging and hybrid technology is applied to extract performance and the upshot is greater efficiency when not using the maximum power. Not many other companies have embraced the down-sizing trend to quite the same extent.

Pride of place in the XC90’s cabin goes to a large iPad-like touch-screen info-tainment system mounted in the centre of the facia. Not only does it de-clutter the cabin significantly, it arguably establishes a new benchmark in user-friendliness. Today’s smartphone users will find its pinch and swipe functionality very useful. Plus, it looks great!

The refreshingly different cabin uses only top-notch materials, with the gearlever, for example, being crystal glass from Orrefors. It is, however, the feel of the start/stop button and volume control knob that further heightens the ambience. These were diamond cut.

See our video detailing the Volvo XC90 here

Ford Everest – RAISING THE BAR

South Africans love bakkie-based SUVs, with the Toyota Fortuner, even in the twilight of its career, still being among the top sellers on the market. Ford’s Everest has scarcely made a dent in the market, being outdated, outclassed and massively outsold by its big rival. But all of that could change now. The new Ford Everest is such a massive step forward that it actually deserves a new name. Rarely, these days, does a new product represent such a big advance over what it replaces.

While basing an SUV on the chassis of a bakkie has advantages for off-roading ability (and costs), the reality is that such a vehicle often feels harsh, bumpy and roly-poly on the road. The Everest sets a new segment benchmark, with its coil-sprung rear set-up serving up near-unibody levels of ride refinement on the road. And once you head into the rough stuff, there’s still enough bakkie in its DNA to outclass the more city oriented SUVs.

The new Everest brings very advanced features into the bakkie-SUV segment for the first time, including such technologies as cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, hands-free parallel parking, adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist, among many others.

The vast cabin and clever packaging result in a proper seven seater. Even adults can sit comfortably in the third row. There are also some nifty features, such as the ability to fold the third row into the floor electrically. In the front of the cabin the attention focuses on the Ford’s latest SYNC 2 info-tainment touch-screen system.

Go off-road the Ford Everest here

BMW i3 – ELECTRIC DESIRABILITY

The BMW i3 is not the first electric car to go on sale in South Africa, but it could just be the product to jolt the electric revolution into motion. With its revolutionary architecture, sci-fi design and overall quality the i3 already shoulders its way into the limelight, and that’s before you even experience the drive. Quick off the mark and remarkably refined, you’ll be amazed at how quickly it fits into your lifestyle. Couple all of this with the desirability of the BMW brand, and you have a very convincing trailblazer for the electric car era.

Unlike some other electric car offerings, the i3 is not based on the platform of an existing internal combustion powered vehicle. Instead, the LifeDrive architecture is based on a flat floor (incorporating the powertrain), with a super strong passenger cell mounted on top and made from advanced materials such as carbon fibre. Instead of hiding its unique construction, BMW celebrates it by leaving many of the most important details exposed – such as the carbon fibre weave, visible in the door sills.

BMW and Nissan have teamed up to develop the electric car charging infrastructure in South Africa. This crucial move should accelerate the acceptance of electric cars in South Africa.

The single-minded pursuit of efficiency and eco-friendliness is also evident inside, where the minimalism is celebrated by the use of excellent materials – KENAF, for example, is a member of the cotton family and very sustainable. Then there’s also the fact that the factory that builds the i3 is 100% powered by electricity generated from sustainable sources.

View our video of the BMW i3 here

Refreshed Nissan NP200 Bakkie Rolls Out

The plucky Nissan NP200 is a hugely popular player in the local market and has just undergone a mild facelift which will further broaden its appeal.

Nissan's NP200 is a rather solid little thing and around 1 500 units drive off showroom floors on a monthly basis. Now a refreshed Nissan NP200 is here and features new materials as well as equipment to make the cabin more appealing. The revised model will continue to be assembled at Nissan’s Rosslyn Plant, near Pretoria.

What's New?

The upgrade includes new interior trim which is designed to move the cabin slightly upmarket. The base model's seat and door trim changes to a hard-wearing black textured fabric with a vinyl inlay on the seat bolsters and sides. The mid-grade model gets a younger-looking, more modern black and grey patterned fabric on the seats and door panels. There's also black woven cloth on the seat bolsters and black vinyl inlays on the seatbacks. The top-spec 1.6 16V and 1.5 dCi models get a black and grey textured fabric and door panels, with black woven cloth on the sides and bolsters.

An all-new audio setup debuts on the mid- and high-grade Nissan NP200 derivatives. This new audio system offers radio, CD, MP3 playback as well as a USB port, audio jack and Bluetooth connectivity. Another upgrade is redesigned controls for the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system.

These upgrades will further enhance the appeal of the Nissan NP200. Currently it is the best-selling half-ton pickup and recently won the IPSOS Quality Award for the fourth year running. It also bagged awards for the 1.5 dCi turbodiesel model as the most fuel efficient bakkie on the market and recognition in the Kinsey Report for class-leading low running costs. We should see this refreshed Nissan NP200 on dealership floors before the end of 2015.

Watch our video of the pre-facelift Nissan NP200

Ford Mustang (2016) First Drive

It's finally here! The Ford Mustang is an American icon and for too long South Africans have only been to able to dream of owning one. But the wait is over. We drive the new Pony at its launch in Cape Town.

The iconic Ford Mustang has been produced consistently for 50 years, but right-hand drive markets have had to wait until now to get in on the action. What’s more, South Africa is the first country to receive its allocation of right-hand drive units. Notwithstanding this historical "absence", the Mustang has quite a serious following locally and everything we have written about it during the past year has attracted huge attention. So when the day finally arrived to get behind the wheel at the local launch in Cape Town, we were really hoping that the Mustang would live up to the hype.

Americana your way

The premise behind this new Mustang is very different to what Ford has done with its previous ponies. As part of the One Ford global strategy, the Blue Oval decided that this new Mustang would be sold in more markets, hence the right-hand drive models. In doing that Ford realised it would probably have to make a Mustang that could turn corners and do dynamic things, too.

The previous generations of Mustangs have often been criticised for being straight-line specialists that were left floundering in the bendy bits. This new focus means that the new version has features like independent rear suspension, aluminium body panels and some hardcore stopping power. Mustang has had to adapt to European expectations while still appearing to be the ultimate slice of Americana that we’ve seen in the movies like Bullitt and Gone in 60 Seconds.

Ponies under the bonnet

The Mustang that’s going to get all the attention is the 5.0 V8, so we'll start with that derivative. The headline figures for this model are 306 kW, 530 Nm of torque and a 0-100kph sprint time of 4.8 seconds. The Mustang V8 is naturally aspirated so the power delivery is smooth the whole way through the rev range up to the redline mark at around 7 000rpm. As far as my expectations of a Mustang V8 go, we were expecting a heavy dose of loud and brash, with a slice of bouncy and grumbling V8 tremor.

Instead it’s a bit restrained, to be honest, even when you hammer it. There’s just not enough excitement from the engine or exhaust note. Maybe this is what it was meant to sound like or maybe we have just become accustomed to the likes of brash Mercedes-AMG and Audi RS trumpets. So, in short, we were left a little underwhelmed in the aural entertainment department.

The V8 can be ordered paired with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic, but the manual would be my pick. The stubby gear lever with its direct action makes the whole experience more engaging. Plus, the manual 5.0 is the only model with a launch control mode; you set the revs at wherever you want, and the electronics will hold it there until you drop the clutch.

There’s also a childish, but entirely necessary application called line lock. What it does is hold the brake on the front wheels while allowing you to light up the rear tyres, effectively performing a burnout. Yee-ha! Now we're talking…

The other engine

If you knew absolutely nothing about the Mustang and its ancestry and just want to buy one because of the way it looks, the 2.3-Litre Ecoboost would be the one you should get. It makes a decent sound from both the exhaust and the engine, has enough shove with 233 kW and 430 Nm and does a decent sprint to 100kph in 5.8 seconds. It can also be had in manual, doesn’t look all that dissimilar and costs R120 000 less than the V8.

Coastal Cruising

Turning the Mustang into a global car and adding bits like independent rear suspension has stiffened up the ride considerably. This Mustang handles well indeed. Even in tight and twisty mountain pass style roads, the Mustang has good front-end grip and doesn’t roll from side to side when you ask quick direction changes of it. The steering has multiple modes so you can adjust the weighting to your liking, but it feels properly connected to the front wheels and gives good confidence when pushing on.

The V8 model gets a performance pack, which adds Brembo brakes to the deal and they have amazing initial bite and superb feel through the pedal. Overall, I was quite impressed with the sportiness of the new Mustang, although for those who just want to cruise slowly around the coastline it might actually be a little too stiff.

From the front seat

Looking at the interior, Ford has continued the double-brow style dashboard layout from the original models, but with a modern take. The seats in the Mustang are a highlight, they are both supportive and comfortable. The rest of the materials used felt a little plasticy for a car of this calibre. We expected brushed aluminium for the driving mode toggle switches rather than plastic.

The latest tech installed, however, with Ford’s Sync 2 that will connect to your phone, control everything with voice inputs, has dual USB slots and a reverse camera being present. The convertible makes do with a multilayer insulated cloth top for those who wish to experience topless American muscle motoring. There's room in the back too as Ford claims the new Mustang is a 2+2 seater. Whether there's legroom for a full-sized adult is another story, but we're happy to see a reasonably spacious boot thrown in as well.

Pricing and competitors

We don’t see many competitors for the Mustang; you either want one or you don’t. It’s unlike anything from the Germans and offers an enticing cocktail of history, fastback design and cult status. We first estimated the V8 would come in around a million Rand, but Ford has managed to keep it below that, in spite of our unstable currency. It’s certainly going to attract attention on the roads. If you're a fan of the Mustang brand, this design will be almost impossible to resist. And there seem to be many of those fans out there, because Ford reckons there’s a two-year waiting list for a Mustang. Hope you're already in the queue!

Ford Mustang Price in South Africa

Mustang 2.3 EcoBoost Fastback Manual R699 900
Mustang 2.3 EcoBoost Fastback Auto                      R719 900
Mustang 2.3 EcoBoost Convertible Auto   R779 900
Mustang 5.0 GT Fastback Manual R819 900
Mustang 5.0 GT Fastback Auto                                R839 900
Mustang 5.0 GT Convertible Auto                             R899 900

What Car Would Santa Drive?

If Santa didn't have a sleigh, which vehicle would he drive? Lightstone Auto believes it has the answer!

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Lexus Brings Updates to NX, RC and LS

Three models in Lexus’ range have received updates and improvements to their standard specification, in order to provide greater comfort, convenience, style and performance.

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Next Mercedes-Benz E-Class Interior Revealed (Video)

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Renault Clio 1.2 EDC (2015) Review

The Renault Clio is a stylish and fashionable city car that initially offered a modern turbocharged engine and a wealth of equipment. What it lacked was an automatic gearbox, which Renault has addressed with this new model.

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Renault Clio 1.2 EDC Price in South Africa

Test team opinion

Mazda MX-5 (2015) Review

The Mazda MX-5 is a driver’s car and it’s only fitting that we headed for the sweeping roads hugging the Western Cape mountains and even dropped the top for a few sun-soaking moments.

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Test team opinion

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What engine is available in the Mazda MX-5 in South Africa?

Is the Mazda MX-5 a good sports car?

Does the Mazda MX-5 come with a service plan and warranty in South Africa?

What are the main competitors of the Mazda MX-5?

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Refreshed Nissan NP200 Bakkie Rolls Out

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Watch our video of the pre-facelift Nissan NP200

Ford Mustang (2016) First Drive

It's finally here! The Ford Mustang is an American icon and for too long South Africans have only been to able to dream of owning one. But the wait is over. We drive the new Pony at its launch in Cape Town.

Americana your way

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