Four Popular Small SUVs in South Africa

This week’s #ChooseDay turned out to be quite interesting. We gave you the option to vote for the small SUV that you thought to be most desirable. Two of the SUV choices have yet to arrive in South Africa, but two of the choices are already available in the country. The choices included the new Fiat 500X which launched in South Africa this week, the new Honda HR-V which is due for launch next month, the new Mazda CX-3 which can be expected towards the end of 2015 and the new Jeep Renegade which has been on sale since May 2015.

Popular Small SUV in SA

You had your say and we tallied up the scores to determine which small SUV is top-of-mind on the popularity chart, and the winner is…

1. Mazda CX-3 – 43% of the total vote

In a very close battle, the Mazda CX-3 came out on top of the vote with 43%. Mazda has launched lots of new product to market and the CX-3 represents an opportunity to tap into the compact SUV market in South Africa. Although local specs and pricing have yet to be confirmed, you can expect a 1.5-litre diesel engine or even a 2.0-litre petrol engine when the CX-3 arrives this year. There will in all likelihood be a choice of front-wheel drive and all-wheel derivatives on offer and Mazda’s SKYACTIV-Drive automatic transmission will also make an appearance. In terms of technology, you can expect good things as the CX-3 will come packed with active and passive safety systems as well as Mazda’s Connect infotainment system. There’s certainly lots to look forward to in the new Mazda CX-3 and we will keep you updated as any new information becomes available.

2. Jeep Renegade – 41% of the total vote

The Jeep Renegade came in at close second, earning 41% of the vote. This newcomer was built in Italy while staying true to its American roots. We recently had the Renegade on test and can vouch that it’s an excellent offering from Jeep with good performance and solid build quality. Only 4×2 derivatives are currently on offer but you can expect to see 4×4 models joining the range later this year. We tested the 1.4L T Limited Launch Edition which offers 103 kW and 230 Nm of torque, mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. Pricing for the 1.4L Limited starts at R375 990.

Watch the video below for 10 things you should know about the new Jeep Renegade.

3. Honda HR-V – 10% of the total vote

The Honda HR-V scoops third place on the small SUV popularity scale with 10% of the total vote. The HR-V is set for launch in August 2015 and we will be there to give it a go. Honda recently revealed specs and pricing for the HR-V and there will be two engines on offer including a 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 88kW and 145Nm of torque. The second engine engine is a 1.8-litre four-cylinder with 105kW and 172Nm of torque. Both models will feature a CVT transmission with shift paddles behind the steering wheel for a more engaging drive. Pricing starts at R299 900 for the HR-V 1.5 Comfort CVT and going up to R354 900 for the HR-V 1.8 Elegance CVT.

4. Fiat 500X – 6% of the total vote

The recently launched Fiat 500X has arrived in South Africa, but still has some convincing to do with only 6% of the total vote. We attended the launch of the 500X this week and our initial impression was positive overall. The 500X is built on the same platform as the Jeep Renegade, but looks miles apart. Two engines are on offer and these include a naturally aspirated 1.6-litre engine producing 81 kW and 152 Nm of torque while the range-topping 1.4-litre turbo engine produces 103 kW and 205 Nm. The 1.6-litre derivative comes with a 5-speed manual transmission only while the 1.4-litre turbo can be had with a 6-speed manual or a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Pricing starts at R310 900 for the 1.6-litre derivative while the 1.4-litre turbo is priced from R394 900.

Jeep Renegade 1.4L T Limited Launch Edition (2015) Review

The new Renegade is the first Jeep vehicle built in Italy as a result of the ownership deal between Fiat and Chrysler. This love child was recently introduced in South Africa and draws clear connections to its American Jeep heritage, but with fine touches of Italian finesse. The model on test here is the 4×2 1.4L T Limited Launch Edition in vibrant Omaha Orange. We spent a week with the Renegade to see what it has to offer in the small SUV segment.

Fresh Look

Although the Renegade is distinctly Jeep, with its round headlights and seven-slot grille, it boasts a fresh design and exhibits a sense of youthful charm. Much of the Renegades appeal lies in its small design details.

On the outside, the windscreen features a classic Willys Jeep scaling a mountain in the corner while a Yeti roams freely on the rear windshield at the base of the rear wiper. The taillights are unique too and take on an X Jerrycan design which is a nice design touch. It’s these little touches that give the Renegade a massive cool factor. On the inside youll find a large Wrangler-style grab handle mounted to the dashboard and theres mud-spatter paintwork in the instrument cluster. The rubberised storage compartment also features a moulded map of Moab, Utah which adds to the adventurous nature of the Renegade.

To sweeten the deal on this Limited Launch Edition model, Jeep has thrown in stylish 18-inch wheels, leather upholstery and Satellite Navigation at no extra charge, quite generous indeed.

Interior Adventure

The interior of the Jeep Renegade comes well-appointed with a mix of soft-touch surfaces and harder, more durable materials. Interior build quality is excellent and the driver and passengers will find the leather seats to be quite comfortable too. The drivers seat is electrically adjustable as is lumbar support, just in case you might need it. The multi-function steering wheel is wrapped in leather and can be adjusted for rake and reach.

What we love about this Renegade is its 7-inch TFT multi-view touchscreen instrument cluster that was surprisingly easy to use and gives you the sense that you’re driving something more upmarket. Infotainment comes courtesy of a 6.5-inch touchscreen that houses the radio and navigation system which was intuitive and easy to use too. The system also offers Bluetooth capability and has two USB ports for charging or syncing devices.

To test the space offering in the Renegade, we decided to take it on a surfing adventure which would put its space capabilities to the test. Boot space is at a reasonable 351-litres with the rear seats in the upright position, but will expand to a generous 1 297-litres with the seats folded flat. This meant that three surfboards and related surfing apparel was easily accommodated. The Jeep Renegade then may very well be a surfers best friend.

Driving in Silence

This Jeep Renegade Limited Launch Edition is fitted with Fiat’s 1.4-litre turbo petrol engine that delivers 103 kW and 230 Nm of torque. Those figures are delivered to the front wheels via a slick-shifting 6-speed manual gearbox. For the size of the Renegade, those figures do a good job of scooting this baby SUV around the city.

The best part of driving this Renegade is experiencing how the engine and transmission complement each other. With Stop/Start in operation, you will barely hear the engine come to life, its that quiet. I was further taken aback by how smooth the transmission is. The lever is super light and the right gear is engaged with ease, making the Renegade a pleasure to drive. I dont think I have ever experienced a transmission as smooth as this.

At speed, the Renegade is well composed and delivers a smooth ride, soaking up bumps and uneven surfaces with minimum fuss. Cars of this nature are generally susceptible to body roll in corners, but not the Renegade. It holds its own well in the corners and it impressed me with its road holding ability and comfort while driving.

As this is a 4×2, dont expect much offroad ability from this Renegade. Even so, with a ground clearance of 175mm, the Renegade is a capable pavement hopper when required. There are however 4×4 derivatives making their way to South Africa later this year.

In terms of fuel consumption, Jeep claims 6L/100km for the Renegade. Despite our best efforts, the best figure we could manage during the test period was 9.8L/100km.

Packed with Safety Features

The Jeep Renegade Limited Launch Edition comes well equipped with safety features and these include six airbags, ABS with EBD, Brake Assist, traction control, stability control and rollover mitigation. This model also came fitted with Blindspot Monitoring, Crosspath Detection, Lane Departure Warning, rear parking sensors and a ParkView rear camera.

Jeep Renegade Limited Launch Edition Price in South Africa

This Jeep Renegade Limited Launch Edition is priced at R375 990 and includes a 3-year/100 000km warranty and a 6-year/100 000km maintenance plan.

Verdict

The Renegade is a fresh and funky offering from Jeep that will appeal to younger buyers looking for a capable and flexible all-rounder. Not only is the Jeep Renegade an attractive offering, it comes well specced too. It delivers good performance and the drive quality is particularly impressive. Our main concern is the price, which is on the expensive side of the spectrum, but if individuality and originality are important to you then the Renegade may fit the bill. Buyers in this segment can also consider the Volkswagen Tiguan and Audi Q3.

Team Opinions

The Jeep Renegade feels like the perfect car for the active lifestyle pursuer. It’s got rugged looks, good space and decent ground clearance, the engine manages adequately too. The price is a little on the high side however. – Ashley Oldfield

If a Jeep is what you want and you can’t afford a bigger model, then this will do nicely. Quite easily one of the nicest and coolest vehicles I’ve driven in 2015. -David Taylor

We Like: Styling, build quality, drive quality, decent performance

We Dont Like: Price

Also Consider: Volkswagen Tiguan, Audi Q3

Want to buy a Jeep Renegade?

Compare the Jeep Renegade with its competitors here!

Jeep Renegade Limited Launch Edition Quick Specs

Video: Top 10 things to know about the New Jeep Renegade

Peugeot 308 GT Now in South Africa

The Peugeot 308 offering in South Africa has expanded with the introduction of the range-topping 308 GT. The 308 GT joins the Active and GT Line derivatives in the range and brings more dynamism and performance to the table.

More Power

The new Peugeot 308 GT comes fitted with a 1.6-litre turbo engine that offers 151 kW with maximum torque at 285 Nm. The 308 GT makes use of a 6-speed manual transmission and those performance figures translate into a 0-100km/h sprint time of 7.5 seconds before reaching a top speed of 235 km/h.

Fuel consumption is rated at only 5.6-litres /100 km with an estimated range of 950km from its 53-litre fuel tank.

Styling Features

On the outside, the 308 GT features a grille with a three-blade design flanked by advanced headlights and LED daytime running lights. The lower bumper has a large air intake with cooling apertures on either side. The side mirrors are finished in gloss black while the windows are tinted and the B-pillar has been blacked out. The rear-end is dominated by a new gloss black apron with stylised tailpipes while the rear LED tail lights feature Peugeot’s three-claw design. 18-inch alloy wheels complete the package.

On the inside, you will find roof lining and B-pillar trim with an anthracite colour scheme. The buckets seats feature leather bolsters with Alcantara inserts finished with red stitching, which is also used on the door panels, gear lever and leather steering wheel. The pedals are aluminium and stainless steel sill finishers welcome you in. There’s also a full-colour touch screen display that takes care of infotainment. The instrument panel features a chequered-flag inspired background with a red and black colour scheme called ‘Redline’. The instrument illumination is red too.

A Driver Sport Pack is standard, which produces a sporty engine note while firming up the electric power steering and sharpening up the throttle response. The Driver Sport Pack also offers an extended display which shows power and torque, turbo pressure and longitudinal and transverse acceleration. The Driver Sport Pack can also be deactivated if need be.

Safety Features

The Peugeot 308 GT features upgraded brakes and ABS, EBD and Emergency Brake Assist is fitted as standard. Six airbags are also fitted as standard, as are inertia reel seat belts, head retraints and ISOFIX child seat mounts.

Peugeot 308 GT Price in South Africa

Peugeot 308 GT – R369 900

Prices include a 3-year / 100 000 km warranty, and a 5-year/100 000 km full Premium Maintenance Plan.

Fiat 500X (2015) First Drive

Fiat has been quite short on product over the last few years, but is trying to make a resurgence with its first step into the crossover market. The 500X plans to carve out a piece of the crossover pie with its unique looks, fun drive and sparkling personality. We attended the launch in Cape Town to see first-hand if its any good.

What is it?

The Fiat 500X makes use of the relatively new partnership with Jeep to jointly develop a crossover/compact SUV. The Jeep derivative is the Renegade that we recently drove and liked quite a lot. The Fiat 500X uses the same platform as the Renegade, but from the outside (and inside) you wouldnt say they were cut from the same cloth. The 500X is a much softer, less rugged looking crossover aimed at the more soft-roader buyer who wants the practicality of a crossover rather than the machismo the Jeep offers.

Engines and gearboxes

From launch, the Fiat 500X is available with two engines, both petrol. The entry level 1.6 is naturally aspirated unit with 81 kW and 152 Nm. It only comes with a five-speed manual gearbox. The top engine unit for now is the 1.4 turbo unit capable of 103 kW and 205 Nm. This engine can be specced either with a six-speed manual or a six-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox.

We were only able to drive the 1.4 turbo model at launch and the engine is easily capable in traffic as well as on the open road. It pulls smoothly and offers enough torque to overtake easily and accelerate adequately on steep hills. The six-speed manual gearbox feels solid and has nicely matched ratios for the 500X. The dual-clutch gearbox seems best out on the open road, but in town in can be a bit clumsy and jerky at low speeds.

Spec levels

The 500X is specced reasonably well, playing most of its hand in the connectivity and safety departments. Standard fare is a 5-inch touchscreen infotainment system that deals with Bluetooth, media streaming, USB and Aux operations. The top spec (Cross Plus) model includes navigation and can be upgraded to a 6.5-inch touchscreen with 3D navigation. All models come standard with tyre pressure monitoring so as to let you know if one of your 500Xs tyres is punctured or in need of a top-up of air.

On the safety front, standard spec is excellent, all cars are fitted with ABS, EBD and ESP. Six airbags are fitted and there is a hill-hold function and reverse parking sensors on all models. Things you can upgrade to include full leather interior, electric sunroof and a special three coat Amore Red paintwork. The 500X is also offering three option packs that upgrade the safety, comfort or visibility.

Interior feel

The interior of the 500X is as typically funky as you would expect from the Italian brand. It feels solidly built and the materials used are anything but boring. Theres a mix of leather in the door, durable plastic across the dash and a sort of gritty matte finish to the area around the buttons surrounding the infotainment screen. The seats we had on our unit were the part leather, part cloth version that took a while to get comfortable in but does feature electronic lumbar support to help get the perfect driving position sorted.

Fiat 500X pricing

Fiat hopes the 500X will clutch at the heartstrings of would be buyers that buy their cars more for the emotional attachment rather than the statistics and specification. Its cute and funky and will go up against the ever-present Nissan Qashqai but also something like a Mini Countryman. Pricing starts at R310 900 for the naturally aspirated 1.6-litre, but when fully loaded with the 1.4 turbo it can climb as high as R394 900. For now it looks like quite a funky alternative that’s cool and offers something a little different at a similar price point. Well get a better idea of what its about when we get it for a full test soon. The 500X is offered with a three-year/100 000km warranty and maintenance plan.

Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe Legacy Edition in SA

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe is due for replacement in coming months and as a parting gift to Merc lovers across SA, Mercedes-Benz South Africa has introduced a very special C63 AMG Coupe Legacy Edition to market. If you like it, you better get your ducks in a row because only 10 of these beauties are available. Maybe it’s its time to break that piggy bank or have a word with your bank manager!

Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe Legacy Edition

The C63 AMG Coupe Legacy Edition comes painted in Viper Green and features marvelous matte black 10-spoke alloy wheels to round off the look. Under the bonnet you will find a naturally aspirated 6.2-litre V8 engine that’s good for 372 kW and 610 Nm of torque. This engine is paired to a 7-speed AMG Speedshift MCT transmission that will blitz you to 100kph in only 4.2 seconds.

Merc hasn’t disclosed a price for the Legacy Edition, but if the standard Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe is anything to go by then you can expect to pay in upwards of R1.5 million for this special car. We suggest you get hold of Mercedes-Benz quickly as the the Legacy Edition is bound to sell out fast.

Toyota Fortuner Images Surface

The 2016 Toyota Fortuner will be officially revealed later this year and can be expected to hit South Africa next year. Even though Toyota hasn’t revealed any official information regarding the new Fortuner, images of the vehicle in Thailand have found their way onto the internet.

New Toyota Fortuner Details

From the images above, it seems the Fortuner has undergone significant styling changes with a prominent chrome grille dominating the front-end flanked by slim headlights and the rear lights have been redesigned too. As the Fortuner has close ties to the Hilux, it would make sense that it would share some its architecture.

In terms of engines, the new Fortuner will in all likelihood make use of the 2.4 and 2.8-litre diesel engines offered in the new Hilux meaning that power outputs will be between 125kW and 132 kW with torque varying between 343 Nm and 450 Nm depending on the transmission. There may even be a option of a new 6-speed automatic transmission in addition to a 5-speed manual transmission.

For now we will have to wait for official details, but we will keep you informed as soon as more information becomes available.

Toyota Corolla Gets Kit Upgrade

Toyota South Africa has upgraded the popular Corolla sedan which now includes more standard kit. All models in the range now feature Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) as standard. The mid-spec, 1.6 Sprinter has been beefed up with anthracite alloy wheels, boot lid spoiler and a unique Sprinter colour pallete and trim. The model also features a multi-media touch screen display with reverse monitor and guidelines.

All Toyota Corolla models, including the entry-level Esteem, now feature Bluetooth functionality with mounted switches on the steering wheel.

Standard Features

Standard features across the Corolla range include:

Remote central locking for all models with keyless Smart Entry on Exclusive models
Power mirrors and windows (front and rear)
Follow-Me-Home Light Control System and DRLs
Ambient temperature indicator
On-board computer (TFT Multi-information display screen on Exclusive)
60/40 Split rear seats
Airconditioning (Esteem and Prestige)
Automatic Climate Control (Sprinter and Exclusive)
Leather upholstery on all models apart from the Esteem variants
Touch-screen display audio incorporates AM/FM radio, a CD/DVD/MP3 player, Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity with a music streaming facility, and a USB port for the connection of portable music players, with the facility to display iPod album cover art. A Back Guide Monitor is fitted as standard (Prestige, Exclusive and now Sprinter)
Esteem models are equipped with a standard audio system, aux inport and USB port
Bluetooth hands-free system with steering controls on all models
Electrochromatic mirror (Exclusive)
Rain sensing wipers (Exclusive)
Cruise Control (Exclusive)

Corolla Engine Choice

Buyers have the choice between one diesel and three petrol engines. The diesel option includes a 1.4-litre D-4D turbodiesel engine while the petrol options include a 1.3, 1.6 and a new 1.8-litre engine. All engines are mated to a 6-speed manual transmission while 1.6 and 1.8 petrol derivatives can be fitted with Toyota’s Multidrive S CVT automatic transmission as an option.

Toyota Corolla Price in South Africa

1.3 Esteem – R230 500

1.3 Prestige – R248 400

1.4D Esteem – R259 900

1.4D Prestige – R271 600

1.6 Esteem – R242 200

1.6 Prestige – R257 900

1.6 Sprinter – R267 500

1.6 Prestige CVT – R269 600

1.8 Prestige – R268 600

1.8 Exclusive – R290 800

1.8 Exclusive CVT – R302 500

Prices include a 3-year/100 000 km warranty, 5-year/ 90 000 km service plan with service intervals set at 15 000 km (including the 1.4 D). The new models are also supported by the ToyotaCare Roadside Assistance Programme which entitles customers to 24-hour roadside assistance.

Volkswagen Golf Race Car Concept

Volkswagen has released a concept showing its intention to build a Golf race car. It also seems that Volkswagen intends to make the cars available for customers to race in the TCR international race series.

Visual upgrades for racing

The Golf race car is visually very different from the standard machine. The chassis is roughly 40cm wider than that of the production Golf, and a massive rear wing give the Golf a ready-to-race look and immensely improved handling. An aerodynamically designed front splitter and carbon rear wing are also among the modifications for the racetrack. Among the components designed to protect the driver are a racing seat with head protectors, a racing safety cell, and a safety tank in accordance with FIA regulations.

Golf R engine

There is still a four-cylinder engine and DSG gearbox with shift paddles although it’s highly modified. Volkswagen Motorsport is developing the car in cooperation with the sport department at SEAT, meaning it can call on SEATs experience with the Leon Cup Racer. The two-litre turbo engine comes from the Golf R this racing version has a bit more grunt and generates 243 kW and 410 Nm of torque.

In order to accelerate development, the Golf race car will be tested under competitive conditions at the remaining four race weekends in the international TCR series. The first event for the Golf race car takes place this weekend 11/12 July 2015.

Top 10 things to know about the New Jeep Renegade

SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO

There is a new Jeep on the market and at first glance, it looks particularly interesting. Its noticeably smaller than any other Jeep, and noticeably cuter especially given the colour palette available, which seems to have been borrowed from the company that makes Skittles.

In this video, weve picked ten things about the new Jeep Renegade that you need to know, covering the engine, interior, build quality and a few little surprises that Jeep has built into the car as standard.

Well be using this space to go into detailed comparisons with this cars rivals.

Here at Cars.co.za, we were all unexpectedly surprised by the new Renegade. The build quality is impressive and overall, as a package, it’s an attractive urban car. But the pricing is, shall we say, challenging.

With the range starting at R340 990, the car is priced above a few of its key rivals, even overlapping bigger cars in the next segment, such as the Toyota Rav4, which starts at R311 000.

The car featured in the video is the 1.4 T Limited Launch Edition, which at the time of writing, features SatNav, leather upholstery and those rather nice 18-inch wheels included as freebies in the price of R375 990. Well use this car for comparisons below.

Weve chosen the Mini Countryman and Subaru XV, as both cars are roughly equally sized and offer that rugged, I-might-actually-go-offroad feeling.

See a detailed comparison of the three cars below, here:

Interested in a new Jeep Renegade?

Top 10 things to know about the Jeep Renegade

Jeep Renegade vs Rivals – Specs

	Jeep Renegade 1.4 T Limited Launch Edition	Mini Cooper S Countryman
Price	R375 990	R393 988
Engine	1.4T Multi-air turbo petrol	1.6 turbo petrol
Power/Torque	103 kW/230 Nm	140 kW/240 Nm
Fuel economy	6.0L/100km	6.6L/100km
Acceleration	10.9 seconds	7.5 seconds
Top Speed	181kph	216kph
Boot space	351/1297 (seats down)	350/1170 (seats down)
Park distance control	Rear	Optional
Bluetooth	Yes	Yes
SatNav	Yes	Optional
Leather Upholstery	Yes	Yes
Airbags	6	6

	Jeep Renegade 1.4 T Limited Launch Edition	Nissan Qashqai 1.6T Acenta
Price	R375 990	R364 800
Engine	1.4T Multi-air turbo petrol	1.6 turbo petrol
Power/Torque	103 kW/230 Nm	120 kW/240 Nm
Fuel economy	6.0L/100km	6.2L/100km
Acceleration	10.9 seconds	9.1 seconds
Top Speed	181kph	200kph
Boot space	351/1297 (seats down)	430/1585 (seats down)
Park distance control	Rear	Optional
Bluetooth	Yes	Yes
SatNav	Yes	Optional
Leather Upholstery	Yes	Optional
Airbags	6	6

Range Rover Lineup Updated

Land Rover has updated its Range Rover lineup for 2016. The biggest news is the introduction of the flagship Range Rover SVAutobiography in South Africa that replaces the Autobiography Black. The SVAutobiography is the most powerful Range Rover ever. In addition to this, the entire Range Rover lineup now benefits from new and updated features as well as technological enhancements.

Range Rover SVAutobiography

Developed at the Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) Technical Centre in the UK, the SVAutobiography is fitted with a 5.0-litre supercharged V8 engine that delivers 405 kW and 680 Nm of torque. This engine is mated to a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission. The SVAutobiography can also be had with a 4.4-litre SDV8 turbocharged engine developing 250 kW and 740 Nm of torque.

The RangeRover SVAutobiography is available only in long wheelbase formats. Customers can now for the first time choose a duo-tone paint scheme. The upper body is in Santorini Black while the lower body can be specified with a choice of nine colours. The SVAutobiography is distinguished with its new bonnet lettering while the tailgate features new SVAutobiography badging. The front grille is finished in Graphite Atlas and polished chrome. The supercharged V8 derivative also features quad tailpipes, hinting at the power under the hood.

On the inside, most of the switch gear and foot pedals are fashioned from aluminium. For rear passengers, there’s also a chiller compartment and deployable tables for convenience. The coat hooks on the rear pillars are made of aluminium too as are the seat rail finishers. Deep twist pile mohair carpets add a touch of luxury. There’s also an option for a sliding loadspace floor made of aluminium and a choice of veneers which makes loading and unloading easy. The SVAutobiography also features ‘Event Seating’ which allows two adults to sit on the lower tailgate. These seats are stored in the luggage compartment and are hand-crafted from Windsor leather and come with a durable aluminium frame.

Range Rover Updates

Land Rover has now made the All-Terrain Progress Control system available on models fitted with the SDV8 engine. There’s also a new and improved Surround Camera System which includes Rear Junction View that improves rear visibility when reversing from a parking bay. An integrated washer jet ensures clarity in all conditions.

The Gesture Tailgate makes opening your Range Rover easy. Sensors are used in the rear bumper to detect foot gestures that will open the rear tailgate automatically. Automatic Access Height lowers the vehicle once parked by as much as 50mm, allowing for easy entry and exit or when loading items into the luggage compartment.