Mercedes-Benz B-Class B250 (2015) Review

The MPV segment seems to have been reignited by a bunch of big name German brands showing interest in a market we thought dead. Mercedes-Benz and its B-Class has been a stalwart in the MPV segment, but has now been joined by perennial rival BMW and its Active Tourer, and Volkswagen who recently launched the SV in South Africa. This facelifted B-Class is said to have an improved cabin, a better range of engines and obviously a refreshed design. We spent a week with the top of the range B250 AMG Line to see if Merc remain at the top of the segment.

Revived MPV Segment

As mentioned above the MPV segment has seen a resurgence and the Germans have come out swinging. The B-Class allows the driver to sit a little bit higher than a sedan, have a load of headroom that makes the car feel airy and large and then still be able to load loads of things in the back including children.

As far as space goes, the B-Class can hold 486-Litres worth of things in the back but can be increased slightly by sliding the rear seats forward at the expense of rear legroom. The rear seats fold flat to evolve the rear loading space into cavernous space for surfboards or mountain bikes. Mostly though you get great sedan-like driving qualities with the practicality of an SUV at the back with somewhere in the middles driving position.

250 AMG Necessary?

In a short answer, probably no. The 2-Litre turbo motor is great in the C-Class where it can waft along and still remain subtly quick. In the B-Class though, the 155 kW and 220 Nm tends to make the drive a bit frantic. Paired with the seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox the B-Class can be quite slow to react to inputs. Theres a delay from standstill once you press the throttle that can be frustrating and often leads you to mash the throttle down further than you want. Once moving though it goes really well with more than enough power to get excited about as its 6.8 second 0-100kph sprint states.

Interior

I like what Mercedes-Benz has done with its A and B-Class interiors as they feel modern yet luxurious. The three vents that sit at the top of the dashboard have become a symbol of Merc’s new models and keenness to capture a younger market. For this facelifted model the multimedia screen measures eight-inches and can be fitted with Garmin navigation built in as an optional extra. The screen has also done away with touch sensitivity and is now controlled via the rotary knob on the centre console. Being the top spec model and AMG line you get some suave leather seats and thanks to the dual-clutch box, paddle shifters behind the steering wheel.

The B-Class continues to introduce new safety features from its more expensive models and as standard theres: ABS, EBD, brake assist, traction and stability control and attention assist (drowsiness detector). Collision prevention assist has also been added and will partially brake the B-Class if it detects you are about to have a rear-end collision.

Ride and Handling

As you can see from the pictures above, the B-Class has some quite attractive options added thanks to the AMG Line fitted to the B250. The front spoiler is added, as are the side ones with chrome strips on them. The main attraction at the rear is the dual tailpipes. The B250 is also lowered slightly and given sports direct steering that increases the steering speed depending of the angle of the wheel. The idea behind it is a more responsive and dynamic feel with this steering system. The 18-inch wheels affect the ride comfort making rippled roads unpleasant and areas of roadworks a harrowing experience. They do look good though, but I would stick with 17s and a bit more tyre sidewall for added road comfort.

Once out of the city the B-Class flexes its muscles in B250 guise, its quick and with the lowered suspension quite fun to hustle around corners. It loads up nicely with very little roll and the steering is pin-point accurate. Im not sure your passengers will enjoy it, but maybe once youve dropped them off you can negotiate a mountain pass or windy road on the way home. Who knew that an MPV had hot-hatchback tendencies?

Verdict

The B-Class is a very accomplished premium MPV thanks to its inoffensive looks, spaciousness and comes loaded with good safety systems. In B250 guise though it doesnt make as much sense, as I would certainly go for a B200 or B220 diesel. You’re sacrificing the speed, but improving the ride comfort substantially. There are plenty of options to choose from so you can tailor make your B-Class to your needs. As far as its competitors go, the BMW Active Tourer focuses more on performance dynamics in all models while the VW Golf SV aims more at the budget conscious, practical buyer not concerned with the premium badge a Merc offers.

We put the B-Class vs Active Tourer against each other in an informative video. Check it out!

B-Class Pricing

Opening the account of the B-Class is the B200 that costs R389 736. This is the B250 AMG Line model which we had on test and that starts at R476 160 before options.

Second Opinion

The Mercedes-Benz B250 blends performance and practicality in one smart looking package. Not only is that engine potent and smooth, the car’s practicality and interior space makes it a winner for families. If only the ride wasn’t so firm and crashy over uneven tar… My advice is to spec one without the overly sporty low-profile AMG wheels.-David Taylor

We Like: Practicality, Space, handling and looks

We dont Like: Dual clutch can be slow to react and firm ride on 18-inch wheels

Also consider: BMW Active Tourer, VW Golf SV, Citroen C4 Picasso

See a comparison between the B-Class, Active Tourer and C4 here

March 2015 Highlights in Numbers – Infographic

March 2015 was yet another busy month with a plethora of new vehicles introduced to market in South Africa. Opel came in with a bang with the new Mokka sub-compact SUV which is a good all-round offering destined for success. Peugeot came to the party with the new 308 which, has improved significantly over the previous model and is well worth a look in the C-segment. BMW brought in the heavies with the launch of the X5 M and X6 M, as well as introducing the new 2-Series convertible. Ford also had a busy month, launching the new Transit Connect panel van, Tourneo Connect MPV and the new Ford Focus. For those with a taste for opulence, Rolls-Royce introduced the Ghost Series II, but you may want to have a chat with your bank manager before visiting the dealership.

In terms of sales, Toyota dominated the market with the Hilux being a best-seller yet again, but the Ford Ranger was hot on its tyres, claiming second place on the best-selling vehicles list. Volkswagen also had a solid month with the Polo Vivo and Polo selling particularly well. Last but not least, you, our prized readers, thought that the Rolls-Royce Phantom was the best luxury car on the planet while the BMW X6 M took the honors of being your favorite car of the month. Here’s a highlight summary of what went down in March 2015.

March 2015 Highlights in Numbers – Infographic

Toyota RAV 4 Goes Hybrid

A hybrid version of the popular compact SUV from Toyota has been announced. The Toyota Rav 4 Hybrid has been a popular model overseas, and this new model looks likely to continue that success.

Internationally there are two trim levels: XLE and Limited. Both are equipped with an Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel-Drive System. The hybrid (and non-hybrid Rav 4 models) will receive refreshed exterior styling which gives it a sleeker, more dynamic appearance. The front is dominated by an LED trifecta (Headlights, Daytime Running Lights and Hi-Lo Headlights) while a new rear bumper and lift gate with available LED taillights add a premium look.

Toyota RAV 4 Features

Customer feedback is vital when it comes to refreshed products and Toyota claims it listened to its fans when it came to the refreshed Toyota Rav 4 and added the following features:

Improved interior quality with more premium materials
Available 4.2-inch TFT multi-information display in a revised gauge cluster
Available 7-inch touch-sensitive display audio touch screen
Leather steering wheel (excluding LE)
Updated interior shifter and window/lock control bezel material
Revised cup holder design to accommodate tall mugs with handles
New sunglasses holder
Additional USB added to front and one 12V power outlet added to rear
New interior colors (Tan, Beige and on SE a Tan/Black combination)
Soft touch material on upper door panel and lower dash

Other useful features include front and rear parking sonar, available Smart Key, and a Homelink® garage door opener (standard on Limited grade). International models will have an available Scout cell phone based navigation system. All international RAV4 XLE, SE and Limited models will come standard with SiriusXM All-Access Radio with a 3-month complimentary trial. At this stage, I’m not sure what SA units will get.

The Toyota Rav 4 Hybrid and new Rav 4 models also boast numerous safety features:

Pre-Collision System
Forward Collision Warning
Lane Departure Alert
Automatic High Beams
Pedestrian Pre-Collision System
Dynamic Radar Cruise Control

Powering the Toyota Rav 4 hybrid is one of the smart Hybrid Synergy drive engines. In this case, it’s a 2.5-litre, petrol engine which is assisted by two electric motors. One of these electric motors powers the rear axle, giving it an electric all-wheel drive setup. You’ll see I mention international spec quite a bit. You see, it’s unlikely we’ll see the full Toyota Rav 4 hybrid in SA, but we’ll definitely see some of the tech integrated into our non-hybrid cars soon enough.

Volkswagen Golf SV (2015) First Drive

Volkswagen has expanded its local Golf lineup to include this new Golf SV or Sportvan as the Europeans know it. Think of it as a slightly bloated Golf, not a fat Golf, just one that can carry more and is a bit roomier on the inside.

What is a Golf SV

The new Golf SV is built on the MQB platform from VW that has been slightly extended by 83mm from the standard Golf. VW has then thrown the practicality stick at the inside meaning that the rear seats slide forwards and backwards, the boot can hold between 500 and 590-Litres depending on where the seats are and the rear seats will fold down just about flat. Apart from the platform though, the exterior of the SV is entirely different to a Golf.

Inside

Its roomy inside with similar dimensions to an MPV – theres loads of headroom and plenty of rear legroom. The rest is standard Golf trim, as youd expect from a car labelled Golf SV. VW has played with the spec of the cars, so be aware what youre in for before heading to a dealer. Standard specification on the entry level model is relatively good though as you get the 5-inch touchscreen, seven airbags, a full size spare wheel and air-conditioning.

Safety

The Golf SV doesnt skimp on safety though as standard fitment is post collision braking which, makes sure after youve had an accident you dont end up at the scene of a secondary collision. ABS, brake assist, traction control and stability control are also all standard features.

Engines

Volkswagen has picked two turbo petrol engines and a turbodiesel to begin the range of SVs hitting SA. Theres a 1.2-Litre turbo petrol with 81 kW and 175 Nm, this is only offered with a six-speed manual and claims to use 5.1L/100km. Next in line is a 1.4-Litre turbo petrol with 92 kW and 200 Nm that can be manual or DSG with the seven-speed DSG being the chosen box. This engine uses 5.4L/100km on the manual and 5.2L/100km on the DSG. The turbodiesel is the 2-Litre capable of 81 kW and 250 Nm of torque, whilst consuming 4.6L/100km.

We had the 1.4-Litre TSI available to drive at launch and it coped well around the route from PE through to Knysna. Some might want a bit more shove in the overtaking department but it does the job pretty well for an MPV. Strangely VW has opted not to bring in the 110 kW turbodiesel that would offer more oomph in the range but it did say that if the SV does prove to be a hit, it could bring in more variants.

Ride and Drive

It may be called a Sportvan in Europe but it rides very comfortably and is extremely smooth on the road. Like most VWs it feels solid and very easy to control and provides you with good confidence of the cars capabilities. It doesnt try too hard to be sporty and leans more towards the comfortable ride end of the spectrum what you expect from an MPV.

Pricing

The entry model 1.2-Litre TSI model starts at R292 500, which offers a good entry point into the MPV segment. The range topping diesel model sits at R359 200 before options. The pricing keeps it below premium competitors like the BMW Active Tourer and Merc B-Class and just about in line with the Citroen C4 Picasso.

1.2 TSI with BlueMotion Technlogy Trendline (81 kW) 6-speed Manual	R292 500
1.4 TSI with BlueMotion Technlogy Comfortline (92 kW) 6-speed Manual	R325 200
1.4 TSI with BlueMotion Technlogy Comfortline (92 kW) 7-speed DSG	R340 700
2.0 TDI Comfortline (81 kW) 5-speed Manual	R343 700
2.0 TDI Comfortline (81 kW) 6-speed DSG	R359 200

Hyundai i20 1.2 Motion (2015) Review

While it is true that the Hyundai i20 has never been a headline-grabbing car, it has quietly carved itself a very sizeable niche in the South African market. In fact, it is one of the top selling B-segment hatchbacks, mostly due to its appealing combination of features, warranty and no-nonsense simplicity. But the game in this segment has moved on significantly in recent months, with new arrivals such as the revised VW Polo, new Opel Corsa, Mazda2 and Honda Jazz vying for attention. Where does the new Hyundai fit in the pecking order?

Spacious and practical

Designed in Germany and boasting much sharper, crisper lines, the new i20 is a rather more up to date take on the compact five-door hatchback genre than its curvy, bland predecessor. It even boasts a few stand-out design features, including a blacked-out C-pillar and rather stylish rear light detailing. This base model can be easily identified by its 14-inch steel wheels (with plastic covers).

More important in this segment than flashy design, however, is practicality. The new i20 is slightly longer and wider than its predecessor and affords its occupants more space all-round, while the boot is commendably large at 294 litres and also well shaped to accommodate a variety of objects. The rear seats can be split and folded for the transportation of even larger items. A full-size spare wheel is located underneath the boot floor.

Despite its entry level positioning, the interior of the i20 Motion manages not to feel low-rent. In fact, the light inserts in the upholstery add a dash of cheerfulness to the otherwise dark cabin. Build quality is predictably very good, with excellent fit and finish evident throughout the interior.

Well-balanced standard specification

A secret to the Hyundai i20s success has always been its carefully considered specification. The remote audio controls-equipped steering wheel is both rake and reach adjustable and the drivers seat can also be lifted or lowered as per the drivers requirements. A comfortable driving position is therefore easy to find.

For the money, you get air-conditioning, a radio/CD system with aux/USB support, Bluetooth, a trip computer and electric front windows. The safety package consists of dual front airbags and ABS with EBD. Oversights? Well, parents may be dismayed to find that there are no Isofix child seat anchors at the rear. And for some the manual rear windows will be an irritation.

Improved refinement

Unlike many other newcomers in the segment of the market, Hyundai has not followed in the engine downsizing/turbocharging trend that has seen the likes of the new Corsa, Fiesta and Polo offering such strong performance without too much of a fuel economy penalty. Of course, the advantage of keeping it simple is the promise of greater reliability there is no turbocharger to go wrong in the long run.

Still, the 1.2-litre engine under i20s bonnet is hardly big, so it has its work cut out it delivers 61 kW and a relatively meagre 115 Nm of torque. Even so, the i20 feels rather perky around town, with good responsiveness provided you stir the slick five-speed gearbox. Most testers felt that the power was perfectly sufficient for town use, with the lack of urge only really becoming prevalent at higher (overtaking) speeds close to the national speed limit.

Hyundai claims a consumption figure of 5.9 L/100 km, but youre more likely to achieve a figure of closer to 7 L/100 km.

One of the criticisms that could be leveled at the previous i20 (and there werent many), was relatively poor NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) control and a somewhat unrefined ride quality. These concerns have certainly been addressed with the newcomer it boasts a body that is 64 % more torsionally rigid than before. The cabin is now a much more isolated place, and the i20 now suppresses road imperfections with greater composure. Coupled with very light steering, the little Hyundai is therefore an impressively comfortable city runner that can now more confidently head out of town, too.

Conclusion and Summary

By offering a strong combination of standard features, space and a good warranty, the entry level version of the new Hyundai i20 is well-positioned for success at the bottom of the B-segment hatchback market. It may offer neither the panache of a Kia Rio or Renault Clio, nor the performance of a Toyota Yaris or the new Opel Corsa, but you do get the promise of comfortable, no-surprises motoring for years.

Hyundai i20 Price in South Africa

The Hyundai i20 1.2 Motion costs R184 900 and comes with a five-year/150 000 km warranty and two-year/30 000 km service plan.

Second Opinion

The new Hyundai i20 may not look as pleasant as the outgoing model, but that’s irrelevant as what’s under the skin is far more important. Build quality and refinement are in abundance, and you’d be hard-pressed to fault this little Korean as it comes with plenty of tech and safety features. However, the 1.2 may not be enough grunt for those living at Gauteng altitudes however.

We Like: Practicality, Comfort, Quality, Warranty

We dont Like: Overtaking power

Also consider: Opel Corsa, Kia Rio, Toyota Yaris, Volkswagen Polo, Ford Fiesta

See a comparison between the Hyundai i20, Opel Corsa and Volkswagen Polo here.

Five Best Premium Sedans in South Africa

Premium sedans have long been the forte of the German brands with the likes of Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz being the go-to brands if you want style, luxury and presence. Those are the key facets a premium sedan buyer is looking for as well as supreme ride quality, decent performance and an interior full of the latest tech.

There are, however, some pretty good options if you dont want to go down the German route. The Japanese have improved offerings from the likes of Lexus and Infiniti, while there are new entrants from Korea, England and America that might be of interest.

We must note that an honourable mention goes to the Audi A4 which, would have made the list if there wasn’t a replacement due imminently. Same goes for the Jaguar XF that had its replacement revealed earlier in 2015.

Five Best Premium Sedans

Mercedes-Benz C-Class

The current C-Class is at the top of its game. Newly launched in 2014, the C-Class oozes quality, refinement and style. Its also loaded with the best technology on the market in terms of safety and crash mitigation. The ride is luxurious and comfortable whilst that Merc badge on the nose provides everlasting presence. From R436 700.

BMW 3-Series

The BMW 3-Series is probably still the drivers choice when it comes to premium sedans as its handling and driving dynamics set it apart from the competition. It may be starting to look a little dated inside, but it still feels like a quality arrangement of materials and design. Theres also a wide range of engines to choose from, as well as options to tailor your 3-Series. From R396 436.

Lexus IS

The Lexus IS is a most improved product – the latest model is bigger, better styled and with the V6 engine, a sporty alternative. Lexus always loads its cars with everything they can think of, so you end up with a car that offers great value when you compare like for like with the competition. It needs a rethink of the infotainment system, but other than that the IS is a good option. From R507 400.

Infiniti Q50

Infiniti is relatively new to SA and still trying to make its mark on the sales charts. The Q50 is a potential winner as its new age technology successfully targets the techno savvy individual who wants a seamless link between their devices and car. The drive is good too and the Q50 offers plenty of space for people and luggage. Theres a decent range of engines including a performance hybrid. From R410 000.

Ford Fusion

A much leaner price tag than those above, the Fusion is hoping to coax would-be buyers into Ford’s sedan offering with the promise of great value for money. It doesnt lack space in comparison to the more expensive models above and its new range of fuel efficient engines are impressive. It also looks stylish while the ride is superb. The Fusion offers impressive tech, a huge boot and will comfortably eat up miles on those long journeys. From R369 900

Citroen Aircross Concept Revealed

Citroen has revealed the Aircross concept which will be shown at the 2015 Shanghai Motor Show later this month. Based on the C4 Cactus, but only bigger, the Aircross concept is a refreshing take on what a SUV can offer in terms of styling and features and points to the possible design direction for the production model.

Citroen Aircross Concept with unique features

Citroen has adopted somewhat strange names for the Aircross features to supposedly portray ‘Consumate Comfort For Extra Energy’, go figure. Designed to offer a new travelling experience, the Aircross concept features ‘Alloy Bumps’ on the side skirting made from honeycomb aluminium castings which is a different take on the ‘Air Bumps’ found on the C4 Cactus. Chrome rear window surrounds are called ‘Air Signs’ and the front air intakes have been dubbed ‘Air Curtains’.

The seats inside the Aircross are said to be ‘broad and generous’ and kitted out in warm materials and vibrant colours. The Aircross concept also features specially designed storage compartments as well as 12-inch HD screens, with one being mobile which can be passed around by passengers for personal use. Also, each seat comes equipped with speakers and a microphone which encourages passengers to have a chat with one another.

The Citroen Aircross will be powered by a plug-in hybrid drivetrain that will combine performance and efficiency, but details will be revealed closer to its official appearance later this month.

South Africans can expect to see the Citroen C4 Cactus launch in the country at the end of April 2015.

Land Rover Discovery Sport Price in South Africa Announced

Land Rover South Africa has put pricing details for the highly anticipated Discovery Sport on its website. Replacing the Freelander, the Land Rover Discovery Sport will be offered with a total of nine variants to choose from.

Discovery Sport is Big on Choice

The range starts with the Land Rover Discovery Sport S with a choice of three engines including a 110 kW / 400 Nm 2.2-litre TD4 diesel, a 140 kW / 420 Nm 2.2-litre SD4 diesel and a 177 kW / 340 Nm Si4 petrol engine.

Two engine choices will be offered in SE, HSE and HSE Luxury trim including the 140 kW / 420 Nm 2.2-litre SD4 diesel and the 177 kW / 340 Nm 2.0-litre Si4 petrol engine. All engines will be mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission.

Land Rover Discovery Sport Price in South Africa

Discovery Sport S 2.2 TD4 Diesel – R541 900

Discovery Sport S 2.2 SD4 Diesel – R590 300

Discovery Sport S 2.0 Si4 Petrol – R590 300

Discovery Sport SE 2.2 SD4 Diesel – R635 600

Discovery Sport SE 2.0 Si4 Petrol – R636 600

Discovery Sport HSE 2.2 SD4 Diesel – R692 300

Discovery Sport HSE 2.0 Si4 Petrol – R692 300

Discovery Sport HSE Luxury 2.2 SD4 Diesel – R731 400

Discovery Sport HSE Luxury 2.0 Si4 Petrol – R731 400

Volkswagen Golf SV Specs and Price in South Africa

Volkswagen has expanded its top-selling Golf range. The Golf SV (or Sportsvan as it is known in Europe) has arrived in South Africa and features the same tech from the award-winning Golf hatchback range, but packaged in a larger and more practical body.

See our first drive from the local launch here

In terms of sizing, the Volkswagen Golf SV is 83mm longer than a normal Golf. The wheelbase is longer too, and the extra 48mm helps increase interior space. Factor in an increased width and height (8mm and 126mm respectively) and you’re looking at something quite spacious.

It’s all about practicality here and the rear seats can be moved backwards and forwards by to 180 mm, to increase either passenger or luggage space. The boot capacity is up to 500 litres in comparison to the normal Golf’s 380 litres and if you fold the seats down, 1 520 litres of space becomes accessible to you.

The cabin is super practical. Between the driver and front passenger, a centre armrest with an integrated storage compartment and two cupholders is included as standard. Other practical storage bins are located on the upper dashboard and in the door panels (a 1.5-litre bottle can be stowed in each front door and a 1.0-litre bottle in each rear door). The Golf SV (Comfortline only) has underseat drawers for the front seats as well as pockets and folding tables on the backrests of the front seats.

Two Equipment Lines for Golf SV

The Golf SV will only be offered in two equipment lines, Trendline and Comfortline.

Trendline (1.2 TSI 81 kW)

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) with HBA (Hydraulic Brake Assist)
ESC (Electronic Stability Control) including EDL (Electronic Differential Lock) and ASR (Traction Control)
XDS electronic differential lock
Automatic Post-Collision Braking System
Driver Alert system
Drivers and front passengers airbags with passengers airbag deactivation switch
Curtain airbag system, for front and rear passengers
Front seat side impact airbags
Drivers knee airbag
Drivers and front passengers whiplash-optimised head restraints
Isofix child seat preparation (for two rear child seats)
Leather-trimmed three spoke multifunction steering wheel, gear knob and handbrake grip
Electronic parking brake with auto hold function
Front centre armrest with storage compartment
Drivers and front passengers seat height adjustment
Height and reach adjustable steering wheel
Split folding rear seat backrest 60:40
Multifunction computer with visual gear change recommendation for improved fuel consumption
Composition Colour system with 5.0-inch colour touchscreen
Front and rear electric windows
Climatic manual air conditioning
Illuminated, cooled and lockable glovebox
Four load lashing points in luggage compartment
Battery regeneration and Stop/Start system
Lyon alloy wheels with 195/65 R15 tyres
Full size alloy spare wheel
Black roof rails

Comfortline (1.4 TSI 92 kW and 2.0 TDI 81 kW)

Comfortline derivatives add the following to the standard features of the Trendline:

Cruise control
Black front air intake and radiator grille with chrome trimmed inserts
Luggage compartment storage box; load-through provision
Drivers and front passengers under seat drawers
Rear centre armrest with cupholders
Automatic coming and leaving home lighting function, plus dusk sensor and automatic driving lights
Rain sensor and automatic dimming interior rear-view mirror
Toronto alloy wheels with 205/55 R16 tyres
Front fog lights with static cornering function
Chrome trim on rotary light switch and air vents surround
Front seats with height and lumbar adjustment
Ambient interior lighting
Silver anodised roof rails

Engines for VW Golf SV

The Volkswagen Golf SV has three engines to choose from. The petrol engines are a 1.2-litre TSI 81 kW and 1.4-litre TSI with 92 kW. The diesel engine is a 2.0-litre TDI with 81 kW. Both petrol engines come fitted with BlueMotion Technology with Stop/Start and battery regeneration systems.

1.2-litre TSI 81 kW

Starting off the Golf SV model range is the 1.2 TSI with 81 kW. This turbo engine has 175 Nm and is offered with a six-speed manual gearbox. Its top speed is 192 kph and has a sprint of 0-100 kph reached in 10.7 seconds. The combined fuel consumption claim is 5.1L/100km.

1.4-litre TSI 92 kW

The next engine is the award-winning 1.4-litre TSI with 92 kW and 200 Nm. This engine has six-speed manual or optional seven-speed DSG gearbox gives it a top speed of 200kph and 0 to 100 kph claimed time of 9.9 seconds. Economy is rated at 5.4L/100km (5.2 DSG).

2.0-litre TDI 81 kW

The diesel engine for the Volkswagen Golf SV offers up 81 kW and 250 Nm. Customers have the choice of either a five-speed manual transmission or seven-speed DSG. 0-100 kph is dispatched in 10.5 seconds and it’ll go onto a top speed of 190 kph. Combined fuel economy is 4.6L/100km (4.6 for DSG) which is good.

Volkswagen Golf SV Price in South Africa

The Golf SV model range comes standard with a 5 year/90 000km Service Plan, 3 year/120 000km warranty and a 12 year anti-corrosion warranty. Service Interval is 15 000km.

VW Golf SV 1.2 TSI with BlueMotion Technlogy Trendline (81 kW) 6-speed Manual	R292 500
VW Golf SV 1.4 TSI with BlueMotion Technlogy Comfortline (92 kW) 6-speed Manual	R325 200
VW Golf SV 1.4 TSI with BlueMotion Technlogy Comfortline (92 kW) 7-speed DSG	R340 700
VW Golf SV 2.0 TDI Comfortline (81 kW) 5-speed Manual	R343 700
VW Golf SV 2.0 TDI Comfortline (81 kW) 7-speed DSG	R359 200

Mercedes-Benz Bakkie to be built by Nissan

Mercedes-Benz recently made its intentions public to enter the 1-ton bakkie market in the near future, which is all very exciting. Now, the automaker has revealed that it will partner with Nissan to develop the bakkie for key markets in Europe, Australia, South Africa and Latin America. The forthcoming Mercedes-Benz bakkie will share some architecture with the new Nissan NP300 but will ultimately be engineered by Daimler to meet customer requirements.

Mercedes-Benz double-cab bakkie on the cards

The Mercedes-Benz bakkie will be offered with a double-cab and will supposedly target both personal-use and commercial customers.

Nissan is experienced in the bakkie segment with more than 80 years in the market. Apart from reducing production costs, a 5-year strategic cooperation between Daimler and Nissan will see the Mercedes-Benz bakkie become a reality. Nissan also has a hand in developing a bakkie for Renault which will be built at Nissan’s plant in Cuernavaca, Mexico, come 2016 and will also share architecture with the NP300.

The Mercedes-Benz bakkie will be built on Renault turf in Cordoba, Argentina as well as in Barcelona, Spain towards the end of the decade.

Entering the rapidly growing segment of midsize pickups is an important step in continuing our global growth path. Thanks to our well-established partnership with the Renault-Nissan Alliance, we are able to drastically reduce the time and cost to enter this key segmentsaid Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars.

*Pictured is the Mercedes-Benz Vans Concept