Mercedes-Benz V220 CDI Avantgarde (2015) Review

 

If you really want to go tour the country in the lap of luxury and convenience, it doesn’t get much better than the new Mercedes-Benz V-Class.

Highlights
-Luxury sedan-like cabin features
–Vast space and load-carrying ability
–Eye-wateringly expensive

The large MPV (multi-purpose vehicle) market may be relatively small when you exclude vehicles purchased for fleet or shuttling duties, but a weekend spent with Mercedes-Benz’s ultra-luxurious and versatile new V-Class certainly highlighted the numerous charms. For active families that like to tour, it may just be peerless. But it comes at a price.

Less van-like in appearance

To better compete with the upcoming Volkswagen T6 Kombi/Caravelle, and to position the V-Class as the “S-Class” of MPVs, this Mercedes-Benz has had a rather extensive make-over. The front-end has been modernised to fall into line with all the latest Mercedes-Benz models, complete with LED-infused, adaptive headlamps that also boast High Beam Assist. At the rear, the crisp new tail lamp design also include LEDs.

Overall, the V-Class now looks significantly less utilitarian, at least partly because this model also comes with Avantgarde trim as standard, which includes neat 18-inch Titanium grey alloy wheels and roof rails. Further highlighting the fact that this model has been specified with some long-distance touring in mind is the standard removable towbar.

Made for luxury touring

The interior is so vast and so filled with toys and gadgets that our tester struggled to get his kids out of the V-Class, even after four hours of driving… Let’s start at the front. Facing the driver is a facia that wouldn’t look out of place in a Mercedes SUV. Most of the controls, including the neat COMAND touch pad and scroller as well as the high-resolution display screen are shared with other Mercedes-Benz models. The company has worked hard to infuse the V-Class’s cabin with a premium look and feel – black leather and satin-effect aluminium trim combine well to drive the message home that you’re driving a Mercedes-Benz… not a bus.

It also gets all the latest Mercedes toys, including heated and ventilated front seats, a top-notch Burmester sound system with 15 speakers, the COMAND on-line infotainment system with an 80Gb hard drive and Distronic Plus, which allows you to set a following distance to the vehicle in front, with the vehicle automatically accelerating and braking to maintain that distance. There’s much more…

Pull on the door handle of one of the side doors and it will slide open automatically. Various seating options are available, but our test unit features a reversed (facing rearwards) centre row comprising of two individual chairs, and a more traditional three-seat rear row. All the seats can slide independently and can be removed. However, this removal part is not so easy, as the chairs are bulky and heavy. Fitted between the two middle-row seats, but able to slide as well, is a console that can be transformed into a pop-up table, perfect for work (or snacks). Those seated in the rear part of the V-Class have access to their own ventilation controls and outlets.

And the boot? Even with all seats taken, there is still vast space. The load area is cut in half by a sturdy parcel shelf that can carry 50 kg of stuff. Pop it open and inside the parcel shelf you will find nifty expandable shopping containers – Mercedes really has thought about everything. The vast tailgate, of course, opens and closes with electrical assistance, too.

Refined cruising

Powering the V220 CDI Avantgarde is a 2.1-litre, four-cylinder turbodiesel that delivers 120 kW and 380 Nm of torque. Power goes to the rear wheels via the company’s ubiquitous seven-speed 7G-Tronic transmission. With all the torque already available at a low 1 400 rpm, the V-Class feels eager to get going from the word go once the initial lag has been overcome. It’s a refined engine and a good long-distance companion, as it has enough power to execute overtaking manoeuvres with relative ease. With regards to fuel consumption, Mercedes-Benz claims a combined cycle (average) figure of 5.7L/100km, but we could not achieve this. Keep in mind, however, that our test saw the V220 CDI cover 800 km fully loaded, with a bicycle rack attached to the rear, too. We achieved an average consumption figure of just under 9L/100 km.

With its high seating position, loads of goodies and willing engine, the V-Class is a nice vehicle to drive over long distances. It’s less at home in the city, however. Its sheer size makes it a tricky vehicle to find parking for. At least an automated parking system is fitted to help with this. Given its size and underpinnings, it is also not the most sophisticated vehicle when it comes to changing direction. The steering is a bit vague and the ride offers a rather strange combination of firm damping and body roll. That said, none of these criticisms are likely to be high priority items for potential buyers.

Conclusion and Summary

The Mercedes-Benz V220 CDI Avantgarde is a stunningly luxurious family tourer (or VIP shuttle) that makes driving to your holiday destination part of the fun. Is it R200 000 better than a top-specification Volkswagen Caravelle, however? It’s a difficult question to answer, especially as the Volkswagen is being replaced soon. Right now the Mercedes has not only a status advantage, but also benefits from all the brand’s latest technologies. If you don’t need an SUV’s all-wheel drive, but go on long-distance family trips often, then we can’t think of a finer way to travel.

Mercedes-Benz V220 CDI Avantgarde Price in South Africa

The Mercedes-Benz V220 CDI Avantgarde costs R949 175 and comes with a two-year/unlimited km warranty and six-year/100 000 km Maintenance plan.

Test Team Opinion

The Mercedes-Benz is perhaps best enjoyed as a passenger, where the premium features and comfort are highlighted. The vehicle comes exceptionally well appointed, but its high asking price will raise some eyebrows. If ever there was an award for Best Airport Shuttle, this would win hands down. -David Taylor

We Like: Versatility, luxury, standard specification, refined engine

We don’t Like: Ride refinement under certain conditions

Also consider: Volkswagen Caravelle, Chrysler Grand Voyager

Compare the Mercedes-Benz V220 to its rivals here.

Mercedes-Benz V220 Specifications

Ford B-Max In-Depth Video Review

 

We put Ford’s B-Max into the studio where Ciro De Siena examines just how practical and sensible it really is. 

SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO

Ford launched its B-Max MPV in South Africa earlier in 2015 and it received a mixed reception. People couldn’t understand why a consumer would purchase one of these when you could already have the best of Ford with the rather good Fiesta and the popular EcoSport. Ford claims this vehicle is super practical thanks to the lack of a visible B-pillar and the unique rear sliding doors.

Ciro Di Siena puts the Ford B-Max practicality and sensibleness to the test with this video. It has a lot to offer ranging from the entertaining 1.0-litre three-cylinder, Ford SYNC bluetooth connectivity as well as clever folding seats. What other tricks does it offer? Watch the video and find out.

Ford B-Max Video

 

Popular Sports SUVs in South Africa

We tallied up your votes to determine what Sports SUV is considered to be most popular in South Africa, take a look at the results…

The large SUV segment is thriving in South Africa and brands such as Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Land Rover and Audi are leading the charge with impressive offerings. When it comes to Sports SUV’s, practicality, luxury and performance are all important characteristics and personal preference plays a decisive role in the buying process.

For last week’s #ChooseDay we asked you what Sports SUVs you liked the most and your choices included the Range Rover Sport, BMW X6, Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe and the Porsche Cayenne. We were flooded with responses and the race for first place was fierce. We tallied up your votes to determine what Sports SUV is considered to be most popular in South Africa, take a look at the results…

Most Popular Sports SUVs in SA

Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe – 39% of the total vote

With 395 of the total vote, the Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe scoops the win as SA’s most popular Sports SUV. The GLE Coupe was only launched just over two months ago and if this #ChooseDay is anything to go by, it will sell well. Three engines power the GLE Coupe in South Africa and the standout performer is the GLE 63 AMG with its potent 5.5-litre twin-turbo V8 that cracks out 430 kW and 760 Nm of torque through a 7-speed automatic transmission. Pricing starts at R1 006 774 for the 190kW / 620 Nm GLE 350d coupe, while the range topping GLE 63 AMG S coupe is priced at R1 876 111.

Buy your Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe here!

Video: Watch this in-depth review of the Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe!

 

Range Rover Sport – 33% of the total vote

In a close second place with 33% of the total vote is the popular Range Rover Sport. Powerful V6 and V8 petrol and diesel engines do service in the Range Rover Sport with a wide spread of power ranging from 183 kW all the way to 405 kW. Torque is impressive too with between 450 Nm and 740 Nm on offer. The range-topping SVR is powered by a 5.0-litre V8 that offers 405 kW and 680 Nm of torque with a price tag of R1 923 125. If that’s a pill too large to swallow, you can opt for the cheaper SCV6 S priced from R983 074.

Buy your Range Rover Sport here!

Watch the Range Rover Sport SDV8 drag race against the BMW X6 M50d!

 

BMW X6 – 20% of the total vote

The BMW X6, although third on this list, remains a strong performer in this segment. The X6 range kicks off with the X6 xDrive35i powered by a six-cylinder 3.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine offering 225 kW and 400 Nm of torque. The xDrive40d offers 230 kW and 630 Nm of torque from its six-cylinder 3.0-litre turbocharged diesel unit.

The xDrive50i is powered by a 4.4-litre turbocharged V8 with 330 kW and 650 Nm of toque while the X6 M50d offers 280 kW and 740 Nm. The range topping X6 M with its 4.4-litre turbocharged V8 delivers a whopping 423 kW and 750 Nm of torque for you to enjoy. Pricing starts at R993 503 for the X6 xDrive35i while the X6 M is priced atR1 757 659.

Buy your BMW X6 here!

Porsche Cayenne – 8% of the total vote

Limping across the finish line is the Porsche Cayenne with 8% of the total vote. Like the Range Rover Sport, a range of V6 and V8 petrol and diesel engines are offered with the Cayenne. Power is spread from 180 kW and 419 kW while torque ranges from 400 Nm to 800 Nm. The top-of-the-range Cayenne Turbo S is fitted with a 4.8-litre turbocharged V8 with 419 kW and 800 Nm of torque. Pricing starts at R852 000 for the 220 kW/ 400 Nm Cayenne while the Cayenne Turbo S is priced from R2 255 000.

Buy your Porsche Cayenne here!

Chery J2 Swag Special Edition Now in South Africa

 

Aimed squarely at younger buyers, Chery South Africa has introduced the J2 Swag to market.

The Chery J2 Swag is built in Erdos, China and is the product of Chery’s 4S design philosophy which incorporates sporty, science (technology), space and safety. The Chery J2 Swag is priced from R154 900.

Chery J2 Swag Features

The Chery J2 Swag is kitted out with sporty 17-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels and an F1-X exhaust tip. The interior gets the full leather treatment and standard features include a touchscreen with satellite navigation, Bluetooth and a USB/ MP3 compatible sound system with six speakers. Air-conditioning and electric windows are also included. In terms of safety, dual front airbags are fitted as standard as is ABS with EBD. The J2 Swag also features remote central locking with an alarm immobiliser.

The J2 Swag is powered by a 1.5-litre petrol engine offering 72 kW and 140 Nm of torque. Fuel consumption is rated at 7.4L/100km.

“We believe that in the Chery J2 Swag we are making an exceptional value-for-money offer with a car that says it all in terms of attitude,” says Pedro Pereira, Sales and Marketing of Chery SA.

Toyota Recall Affects South Africa

Toyota vehicles in South Africa affected by latest recall…Here’s what you need to know.

Toyota last week announced the recall of some 6.5-million vehicles globally due to a faulty power-window switch that poses a potential fire risk. Toyota commented that a melting switch could lead to smoking and potentially lead to a fire.

The latest recall is an extension of a 2012 special service campaign which affected models including the Aygo (2006-2008), Corolla (2006-2010), Yaris (2006-2010) and RAV4 (2006-2010). The total number of vehicles affected in South Africa was 60 709 and to date, as much as 75% of those vehicles have received service action from a Toyota dealer.

Action to be taken includes the inspection of the window switch board, application of heat-resistant grease and if necessary, replacement of the entire switch board. Toyota South Africa has said that the number of additional vehicles affected is yet to be confirmed.

Toyota South Africa commented, “At this stage it is not yet clear how many additional South African vehicles will be affected by the current international recall action. Toyota South Africa Motors will make this information available as soon as confirmation of the potentially affected vehicles is received from TMC.”

We will keep you updated as soon as Toyota South Africa releases more details.

Renault Clio 1.2 EDC (2015) First Drive

Renault began its miraculous comeback with the new Renault Clio 4 back in 2013. Its sparkling design and strong value proposition seemed enough to tempt new buyers into its seats. The comeback gained momentum with the follow up of Sandero, Duster and more recently Captur to the market. The Clio was also one of the first to introduce modern three-cylinder turbocharged engines to our market, taking a big risk in our conservative market. Now Renault has an automatic gearbox option to include to the range as well as a new entry level model.

Two new Clios

The new 1.2 EDC (dual-clutch automatic) was obviously the headline grabber at the local launch in Johannesburg. The French brand managed to sneak in a new entry level model as well, called the Blaze. The Blaze still runs the same 0.9-Litre turbocharged as the current model but the savings come in the spec. The Blaze does without alloy wheels and a navigation system but gains a funky red interior trim. The price drops the Blaze below the R200 000 barrier.

The new 1.2 EDC

We have some experience with the new 1.2 turbo engine as we've reviewed it in the Renault Captur and the setup in terms of engine and gearbox is identical. The outputs include 88 kW of power and 190 Nm of torque. In a light hatchback like the Clio, it has an impressive turn f speed. The engine will pull strongly in gear and cruise at 120kph without any difficulty. The attached dual-clutch gearbox is the weak link however. From pull-off it feels slow to respond and responds more like a CVT gearbox than a quick shifting dual-clutch. Options from Ford and Volkswagen in terms of quick-shifting boxes are more refined. The Clio’s ‘box is better than a standard four or five speed autos that used to be the norm before dual-clutch boxes became so good.

The new engine and gearbox pairing make for an economical pairing as Renault claims 5.2L/100km is used on the combined cycle test. The 0.9-Litre is still claimed to be more efficient at 4.5L/100km but needs to be worked harder if you want to get anywhere on time.

High spec levels

On both the Blaze and the new 1.2, the Clio’s level of spec is well above par in this segment. As a driver, you’re well catered for in terms of features such as steering mounted controls, a USB and Aux port, aircon, cruise control, a seven-inch touchscreen and navigation are all standard on the 1.2 Expression. The Clio is safe too, with a five-star Euro NCAP rating and safety systems such as ABS with EBD, traction control, hill hold and four airbags.

As mentioned above the Blaze model only exchanges alloy wheels for 15-inch wheel covers, navigation is only available as an option and the fog lights are removed from the front bumpers and replaced with a plastic insert.

Renault Clio Pricing

The new 1.2 EDC comes in at a competitive R234 900 whilst the 66 kW Blaze is available at R179 900. As far as warranty is concerned, Renault offers a five-year/150 000km warranty and a three-year/45 000km service plan.

2015 Ipsos Product Quality Awards – SA’s Most Reliable Cars Revealed

Which are South Africa's most reliable vehicles? The 2015 Ipsos Product Quality Awards winners have been announced. How does your car fare?

The overarching result from the 2015 version of this survey is that quality of vehicles continues to increase. This survey focuses intensely on the customer ownership experience. As Ipsos says, "Any motor company can participate if they supply names for interviewing, agree to the rules of syndication and participate in meetings and decisions regarding the syndicate business in a transparent and open manner." "Once again we have seen a marked improvement in quality during 2014, despite growing technological complexity in vehicles" commented the Ipsos Automotive Business Unit Director, Patrick Busschau.

"Customers in South Africa are becoming increasingly demanding where product quality and general service levels are concerned, but the local motor industry continues to keep raising the bar or at least remains on a very high level." Essentially the survey has three parts: a competitive customer experience benchmarking measurement of the sales and service satisfaction of customers within franchised dealership networks, and a benchmarking of product quality with rankings based on problems per 100 vehicles (PP100). Over 30 000 owners are contacted during a 12-month period and the purchasing/service experiences are taken into account 10-35 days after delivery. Product quality interviews occur 90 days after purchase.

Ipsos 2015 Product Quality Winners

Toyota/Lexus  Four consecutive Gold Awards Platinum Award (Best Overall LCV Brand (PP100 score of 33) Best Local Plant Manufacturing LCVs (PP100 score of 31) Toyota is also awarded with Gold as the Best Volume Passenger Car Brand with a PP100 Score of 31 Ranked first as the Best Local Plant Manufacturing Passenger Cars, with a PP100 score of 25. Lexus ES was awarded Gold in the category for Luxury Passenger Cars (PP100 score of 10) Toyota Yaris Hatch (PP100 of 25) Toyota Auris (PP100 score of 19) Toyota Avanza (PP100 of 24) Toyota Corolla (PP100 of 23) Toyota's Hilux Single Cab was the best Petrol Single Cab (PP100 of 26) and best Diesel Single Cab (PP100 of 31)

Mercedes-Benz: Gold Award as the Best Luxury Passenger Car Brand (PP100 score of 26) E-Class was recognised as the Best Top Executive Model (PP100 score of 17) and received a Platinum Award. The A-Class received a Gold Award as the Most Improved Luxury Passenger Car (PP100 score of 22, compared to 39 in 2014). It ranked alongside Toyota as the Best Local Plant Manufacturing Passenger Cars with a PP100 score of 25. Mercedes-Benz also scooped the Sports Coupé class with the C-Class Coupé (PP100 of 13).

Nissan: Nissan Sentra was the Best New Volume Passenger Car (PP100 score of 23) Best New Light Commercial Vehicle was the new Nissan Hardbody Petrol Double Cab (PP100 score of 24) Nissan Navara Diesel Double Cab also improved impressively from 56 to a PP100 score of 24 to be awarded Gold as the Most Improved Light Commercial Vehicle. Nissan's Almera (PP100 of 26) Nissan NP200 (PP100 of 45)  received a Gold Award as the best Three-quarter Ton Vehicle Nissan Hardbody Petrol Double Cab (PP100 of 24) was the best Petrol Double Cab Nissan Navara Diesel Double Cab (PP100 of 24) the best Diesel Double Cab.

Kia: Kia's new Sorento ruled the roost as Best New Recreational Vehicle (PP100 score of 22). Most Improved Recreational Vehicle was, the Kia Sportage with a PP100 score of 34. Kia Rio Hatch (PP100 score of 25)

Audi: Audi A3/S3 Sportback which improved from 38 to 22. A3/S3 Sedan (PP100 of 22) Audi Q7 (PP100 of 13) as the best Large Recreational Vehicle.

Ford: Focus Hatch improved from a 2014 PP100 score of 59 to 29 in the latest results, making it the Most Improved Volume Passenger Car. Ford Ranger Diesel Single Cab's PP100 score of 33 was enough to earn it gold in the Diesel Single Cab category.

Volkswagen: Polo Vivo Hatch was the highest-ranked Entry Vehicle with a PP100 score of 30. Volkswagen Tiguan (13) rated as the best Small Recreational Vehicle

Honda: Jazz  (PP100 score of 25)

Chevrolet; Sonic Sedan (PP100 of 24) Chevrolet Utility ( Gold in the Three-quarter Ton with a PP100 of 45)

These are the winners, but how do some of the other cars fare?

 

 

Lexus IS 200t (2015) First Drive

Standing next to the IS 350 F-Sport, Lexus has expanded its IS sedan range in South Africa with the addition of the new IS 200t which is the first Lexus sedan to feature a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine.

First introduced in the Lexus NX 200t compact SUV, the 2.0-litre turbocharged engine now does service in the IS range and according to Lexus, it blends performance, dynamics and economy in a traditional sports sedan layout for the first time. The launch of the new IS 200t took place in Port Elizabeth this week and we were there to experience the IS 200t.

Key Performance Features

Lexus has tinkered with the engine which now develops 180 kW and 350 Nm of torque in the IS 200t, which is on tap from 1 650 rpm all the way through to 4 400 rpm. The engine is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifts behind the steering wheel which provides added driver engagement. This transmission also features electronic-control technology and auto-blip downshifts, contributing to a better balance between acceleration and efficiency. For the driver’s convenience, there’s also a Drive Mode Select rotary switch that allows the driver to select driving modes such as Eco, Normal and Sport. The Lexus IS 200t is capable of 0-100kph in 7 seconds with a top speed of 230kph. Fuel consumption is rated at 7.5L/100km.

Distinguishing Features

The Lexus IS 200t is offered in two grades, namely E and EX, and both feature 17-inch alloy wheels. The IS 200t E benefits from full leather trim with ventilated and heated seats, a 7-inch central colour display and front and rear Park Distance Control. The EX grade adds features such as SatNav, rain-sensing wipers, an electro chromatic mirror and a reverse camera. Safety has been bolstered too with the addition of rear side airbags bringing the total airbag count across the range to an impressive 10. ABS with EBD, Brake Assist, traction control and electronic stability control is also fitted as standard. Buyers have the choice between six exterior colours which can be matched with either an Ivory or Black leather interior.

How does the Lexus IS 200t Drive?

The roads surrounding Port Elizabeth offered the perfect test for the IS 200t. The route included a mix of both urban and rural driving and much of the road surface was of poor quality, which meant that the Lexus IS 200t ride quality was under severe scrutiny. Thankfully, the Lexus IS 200t is solidly built and despite all the bumps and imperfections, there was not a single rattle or squeak to be heard in the cabin. With a tuned suspension, the IS 200t dealt with imperfections with poise and delivered a comfortable ride that few cars can pull off. Wind and road noise was just about non-existent and the engine itself can hardly be heard, even under hard acceleration. That said, the IS 200t is well refined out on the road and it gets on with business in a smooth manner. The 8-speed automatic transmission operates seamlessly throughout and only slight hesitation is experienced when you plant your foot flat.

The automatic transmission is perfectly suited for urban driving and if you switch to Eco mode via the rotary dial in the centre-dash, fuel efficiency figures below 10L/100km should be easy to achieve. For driver’s looking for a bit more action, you can engage manual shifting and shift gears using the shift paddles behind the steering wheel. This is definitely the way to go if you want to extract the most out of the IS 200t. Switch the Drive Mode to Sport and the throttle immediately becomes more responsive. No matter what mode you are in, the IS 200t is an excellent cruiser on the highway, and with such a wide torque band, in-gear acceleration is solid, making overtaking easy at just about any speed.

As you would expect when driving with spirit, fuel consumption will take a knock and if you plough away in Sport mode for too long, the information display will quickly show figures upwards of 12L/100km. In terms of highlights of the IS 200t, there are a few. Ride quality and refinement is something the 200t does exceptionally well and buyers will be happy to know that the interior is a comfortable place to be too. What we like most about this IS 200t is its flexibility and it has the ability to cater for different driving styles. The conservative driver will appreciate the smooth, refined drive while the driver looking for a bit more excitement and involvement can have it too, all in one car. That fact alone makes the IS 200t worth consideration. If you are looking for something more overtly sporty, then the IS 350 F-Sport is the way to go. We will have the Lexus IS 200t on test soon, so keep your eyes peeled for our full review in the near future.

Lexus IS 200t Price in South Africa

Lexus IS 200t E – R518 800 Lexus IS 200t EX – R570 300 Lexus IS 350 F Sport – R627 900

Lexus RC 350 F-Sport (2015) Review

We get to grips with the new Lexus RC 350 F-Sport – the sportiest model in the brand's current arsenal. It is also very pretty, but is that beauty more than skin deep?

Highlights
– Meaty 3.5-litre V6
– One model in the range for now
– Comprehensive specification level

There's just one model in the RC range for now and Lexus South Africa has said that the V8-powered RC F will not be coming due to an astronomical price tag. That's a pity, but the F-Sport bodykit-adorned RC 350 already looks quite special, even in the distorting metallic black of our test unit. While the rest of the competition have all gone the forced induction route, the Lexus RC 350 is powered by a refreshingly old-school, naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6. It's a proper engine this, and in the right modes, delivers a brutish soundtrack and endows the big coupe with brisk performance. On tap there's 233 kW and 378 Nm, enough to give the RC a 0-100kph time in the low 7s. It's hardly a fire breathing race car and it won't trouble the latest generation of boy racing hot hatchbacks, but there's something appealing about mashing your right foot into the accelerator pedal and hearing this Lexus roar.

Watch the Lexus RC 350 Acceleration

A video posted by Cars.co.za (@carssouthafrica) on Oct 13, 2015 at 1:34am PDT

Ride and Drive

Being a Lexus, you'd expect the ride quality to be very good and naturally it delivers despite sitting on 19-inch alloy wheels and our deteriorating road network. If long-distance highway driving is a big part of your life, then you'd be hard pressed to find a finer alternative. However this market demands some dynamic ability and this is where the Lexus is not as precise as some of its rivals. Throw some fast sweeps into the mix and the Lexus RC 350 responds in an adequate manner, but by no means is it the enthusiast's choice. It features Dynamic Rear Steering which supposedly aides turn in, but it'll take some fiddling with the Drive Select mode settings before you notice anything special as well as an aggressive driving style – not something we think Lexus owners are accustomed to! Switch to Sport+ and the digital rev counter switches from generic black to white. The throttle responsiveness is also increased. Approach the rev limit and it flashes red, much like the Lexus LFA supercar. Unlike its turbo'd rivals, power and shove only come in towards the higher revs, but once you're around the 4 000rpm mark, the engine is at full chant and delivers respectable oomph. The different settings also tweak the steering and suspension in a more aggressive or softer manner. The Achilles heel of this car is its weight. At 1700kg the Lexus RC 350 is a heavy fella.

Interior and Features

In true Lexus tradition the vehicle is extraordinarily well specced. As it stands, there are no optional extras and your R700 000 gets you an awful lot of gadgets and gizmos. There's a seven-inch touchscreen which controls the car's various on-board systems. The RC also comes with a tasty 10-speaker audio system with Bluetooth and USB connectivity, satellite navigation, cruise control, LED headlights, adaptive suspension and an 8-speed automatic transmission. In terms of safety, you're not left wanting either as the Lexus RC 350 comes with eight airbags, lane departure warning, high beam assist as well as stability control. The cabin is a fine place to hang out and those leather seats with heating/cooling functionality are incredibly comfortable. What's particularly cool is the centrally mounted digital speedometer which can physically move from left to right on the instrument cluster.

Conclusion and Summary

It's not the fastest nor the cheapest luxury sports coupe on the market, but there's just something about the Lexus RC's styling, build quality and refinement that we love. Let's not forget the outstanding level of comfort features and technology that's fitted as standard. All testers agree that it's easily the best looking and one of the finest Lexus models to date. You won't be disappointed if you were to go down this route. For the first time it's possible to say you purchased a Lexus based on a decision made by your heart.

Price in South Africa

The Lexus RC 350 F Sport retails for R730 900 and that price includes the Standard Lexus Distance Plan of 4 years or 100 000 km with service intervals every 15 000km. There's also six years worth of cover provided against body panel perforation due to corrosion that is attributable to defects in material or workmanship.

Test Team Opinion "The Lexus RC looks incredibly fast. It gets plenty of attention when standing in a parking lot too. Instead of handling like the fighter jet it looks like, it's softer and more grown up. It's still quick, just rather aimed at the sunset cruiser rather than the hot lap enthusiast." Ashley Oldfield
 

"I was quite surprised by Lexus RC 350 – people often say Lexus cars don't have character, but I think this one does. It's striking to behold, has interesting tech inside and powertrain-wise is very refined, yet also gets a move on." Hannes Oosthuizen

We Like: Levels of comfort, refinement, build quality, rorty engine, full house specification, sleek looks
We don’t Like: Not as dynamic as hoped, quirky touchpad takes some getting used to
Also consider: BMW 435i coupe, Audi A5 3.0T coupe, forthcoming Mercedes-Benz C-Class coupe Compare the Lexus RC to the BMW 435i and Audi A5 3.0T here. 

Lexus RC 350 F-Sport Specifications

Best Luxury Cars in South Africa 2015

 

When we talk luxury cars, we’re looking at the very best of the best in terms of comfort, style and prestige. You’re going to spend a fortune on these cars but if you’re looking to buy in this area it’s likely to be little more than pocket change.

In order to be eligible for our first class award we figured the vehicle should cost at least a million bucks. From then on we started to nail down elements that we deemed essential to every first class owner. We looked at things like powertrain technology, not just power but engine refinement and smoothness. Luxury and technology in terms of passenger comfort and the very best of features. Brand prestige plays a massive role as a first class vehicle often functions as a status symbol for the owner’s success. This goes hand-in-hand with desirability and design as it has to look the part in car park and as it cruises through the city centre. Finally we looked at driving dynamics. Not necessarily in terms of cornering skills and track focussed suspension but more in terms of ride comfort and cabin quietness at speed.

Best Luxury Cars in SA

Bentley Continental GT Speed W12

Bentleys combine speed and luxury like no other brand. Not outright sportscars but the brand likes to show its racing heritage in every car it builds. The W12 engine is one of the last of its kind and in the Speed is good for over 300kph if you take it to an Autobahn. The Continental is getting on in years and may be lacking in the technology department but it has tons of driver engagement and performance. Did we mention that there’s 467 kW of power? Read more

Mercedes-Benz S500

The new S-Class really stepped up the game in terms of technology and refinement. It may have a humble V8 under the bonnet but it will effortlessly perform any task asked of it. The attention to detail is incredible, the windows are double-glazed in order to keep the cabin soundproof. It is also loaded with all the latest car technologies available as well as crash mitigation systems that make it very difficult to get into an accident. There’s plenty of options to add on as well in order to build the ultimate lap of luxury.

Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG Coupe

The S65 AMG Coupe takes a standard S-Class’ opulence and then throws 465 kW of performance at it. The insane AMG kit and optional matte paint make it a serious head-turner. Where a standard S-Class owner arrives in a quiet and sophisticated manner the S65 AMG owner arrives to a fire-breathing exhaust note and a haze of tyre smoke. Two cars under the same S-Class moniker but with entirely opposite personalities.

The S65 AMG Coupe Driven and Reviewed Video

 

Range Rover SDV8 Autobiography

Looking to isolate yourself from the rest of the road users? The the Range Rover puts you above all – literally. You feel cocooned in your high castle seat with acres of space in all directions. Then there’s the added benefit of taking your Range Rover just about anywhere you desire, and in absolute comfort to match. The Range Rover’s adaptive air suspension maintains that every journey is completed in a dignified and serene manner – quintessentially British. Read more

Rolls Royce Ghost Series II

A Rolls Royce needs no introduction. If money is no option then a Rolls Royce is all that will suffice. Luxury and craftsmanship beyond compare is what you’ll find when you step inside a ‘Roller’. Since BMW has taken over Rolls Royce, they’ve snuck a few 7 Series bits in but the overall feel has still continued. A ride comfort level that’s unmatched and with a decent lump of V12 up front ensures its got enough grunt to keep Alfred happy too. Read more

Watch our video of the Rolls Royce Ghost Series II