Honda CR-V 2.0 Elegance (2015) Review

Honda slipped in a facelifted version of its globally popular CR-V earlier this year. A slight facial revision and model lineup alteration will see the Honda CR-V take on a seriously crowded compact SUV segment. We got to grips with the 2.0 Elegance manual and put it through its paces over a week-long test.

The new stuff

For the facelifted CR-V, the focus has shifted more towards value for money as Honda tries to claw back some sales volume momentum in this segment. Seeing as buyers shopping for a soft-roader SUV place a priority on practicality and school run duties, as opposed to any real off-roading, Honda has introduced more front-wheel drive-only versions of the CR-V. All-wheel drive is reserved for the range-topping 2.4-Litre petrol models.

The exterior changes to the grille in particular have given the CR-V a more stylish and modern look, although I can’t help but feel the chrome strips lean towards the blingy American market. Overall the new design has helped make the CR-V look less bulky and more athletic.

Other updates to the CR-V occur under the skin and include improvements to the ride and comfort levels, and a decrease in noise and vibrations within the cabin.

Power to the people

Honda continues to stick with its naturally-aspirated engine lineup for now and the 2-Litre unit we have on test makes 114 kW and 192 Nm. Since the 2-Litre only has to power the front wheels, the CR-V feels quite perky and not as sluggish as I thought it would be with the relative lack of low-down torque from a naturally aspirated engine. It revs cleanly and even when loaded with a fair amount of travelling paraphernalia, it never felt laboured. The six-speed manual would also be my choice here despite the growing trend towards autos. The Honda shifter is crisp, fast and almost effortless to send up and down the gearbox and I would prefer it to the excess drag on the engine that you’re likely to get from the five-speed auto.

Space race

There’s not much in the compact SUV category that can match the CR-V for space. It has a huge boot at 556-Litres and the rear seats can be folded flat to offer more loading space. Rear room is excellent and the seats are trimmed in leather – something you usually pay extra for in this segment.

Standard equipment on the CR-V is commendable and once you factor that into the price the CR-V becomes an even more attractive offering. The front seats are electrically adjustable and heated for those harsh winter mornings. Front and rear parking sensors and climate control are also standard as is the seven-inch touchscreen that controls audio and media functions. There’s a cool economy measurement chart that compares current drive to previous drives and personal best consumption. The screen itself is not the prettiest around and it’s annoying having to accept some Honda terms and conditions every time you turn on the car. That said, the overall functionality is good and it does all its jobs well, plus there’s an HDMI port.

Safety

The Honda CR-V ranks safety highly on its priority list and its standard safety equipment includes six airbags, ABS, EBD, traction and stability control as well as ISOFIX seat anchors in the rear.

Ride and Handling

This facelifted CR-V offers a marked improvement in its ride and comfort, so whatever the suspension engineers have done behind the scenes have certainly worked. It has a supple ride, but it doesn’t lean or wobble excessively in corners. It’s also very composed over bumps and breaks in the road surface, and none of the harshness enters into the cabin. The steering, despite being electrically powered, has quite a natural feel to it that builds weight as the steering angle increases. It never feels tricky to drive or nervous on the front end which will inspire confidence in the any driver behind the wheel.

Verdict

It’s quite difficult to pick rivals for the Honda CR-V 2.0 manual as it actually occupies a bit of niche within the segment. Most entry spec compact SUVs are going the small capacity turbocharged route and the higher end ones are automatic and diesel so the CR-V 2.0 sits somewhere in the middle. We see the buyer as someone who wants the confirmed reliability of a naturally-aspirated engine, but doesn’t want to skimp on specification levels. Direct rivals then lie in the Subaru Forester and the Toyota RAV4, but as a buyer you’ll also want to look at indirect rivals such as the Ford Kuga, Nissan X-Trail and Chevrolet Captiva. You might end up paying a little extra for the Honda, but you certainly won’t feel short-changed if you do.

Honda CR-V Price in South Africa

The Honda CR-V 2.0 Comfort manual and auto starts off the range at R355 900 and R370 900 respectively before our test unit, the 2.0 Elegance is priced at R404 100. The 2.0 Elegance also comes in an auto at R419 100. The 2.4-Litre Executive AWD is R520 900 and the 2.4 Exclusive AWD is R557 800.

Second Opinion

The Honda CR-V is easily the brand’s strongest product and the latest generation of this SUV will not disappoint. It’s super practical and boasts impressive ride quality. It’s also pleasant to drive. In this particular spec, it may not be the fastest or most frugal, but it certainly delivers in terms of specification and quality.-David Taylor

We Like: Ride, space and peace of mind, gearshift quality

We Don’t Like: Touchscreen looks a bit dated and it is thirstier than modern turbo engines

Also consider: Subaru Forester, Toyota RAV4, Ford Kuga

Compare the Honda CR-V with the Forester and RAV4 here

Quick Specs

Honda CR-V

Five Cool Car Technologies That Will Change Your Life


Technology in general is progressing incredibly quickly with new innovations being rolled out faster than we can keep up with. This is particularly evident in the car world, where cars are no longer seen as modes of personal transport. The average car these days can sync to your cellphone, turn its engine off at an intersection to save fuel and activate its headlights & wipers automatically.

Higher-end vehicles usually boast a lot more tech, but to make this particular list of cool car technologies, it has to be extraordinary. Some of this technology has been invented and used by other brands, but we feel that the latest incarnations are the best applications. We’ve paired each of the cool car technologies with a video that better explains how they work.

Cool Car Technologies

1. Audi Matrix Lights

While car headlights which automatically dip to avoid blinding other road users and swivel for corners has been around for some time, it’s Audi which has nailed this tech down to perfection. Based on an LED system, Audi Matrix headlights automatically reacts to other light sources on the road and dims for other cars. The lights also expand their reach when its really dark, such as a rural area. Plus, there’s an added feature of being able to illuminate pedestrians, making them easier to avoid. We experienced these lights on the latest generation Audi TT, which you can read about here.

2. Opel’s Advanced Park Assist

While many cars on the roads today boast some form of sensor or parking assist, there are those that can in fact park themselves. We’ve tried a few systems ourselves such as the BMW 4-Series, Range Rover Autobiography and Citroen Picasso, but it’s the little Opel Adam which gets the nod because it has made this cool technology in a fairly affordable car. Watch a review of the Opel Adam here.

3. Land Rover Reverse Traffic Detection

How many times have you been reversing out of a shopping mall parking bay and have not been able to see if there are any other cars approaching? Car guards are not always present either, so what’s available? Land Rover’s Reverse Traffic Detection uses radar mounted on the rear to warn you about approaching vehicles. If the system thinks a collision is likely, it will alarm you via audio, your mirrors as well as alerts on the reverse camera screen.

4. Mercedes-Benz Distronic Plus with Steering Assist

This is the forerunner to having a completely automated driving experience and is quite surreal to experience. While some high-end cars offer a form of radar-guided cruise control, it’s Mercedes-Benz that has managed to seamlessly integrate it to a form of automatic steering. While it won’t complete a 90-degree turn for you, it does an excellent job of following the road as well as other traffic, and keeping to its lane. All you need to do is keep your hands on the wheel and you’re left wondering how long it will be before driving yourself is redundant. This technology is an option on most Mercedes-Benz products. We got to grips with it in the flagship S65 AMG Coupe.

5. Citroen AirBump

This is the only technology that’s not electronic in this list, but that doesn’t make it no less interesting. See, cars are mostly made of metal and have metallic paint and one of the downsides of this is that it scratches easily. Think of AirBump then as the automatic equivalent of bubblewrap. Those interesting panels on the door are a form of armour and are made from a flexible thermoplastic polyurethane. These soft, plastic bubbles do a fine job of withstanding shopping trolleys as well as the usual culprit: car doors. It’s simple and innovative, and in our opinion, genius. The car’s decent too, and you can find out more info about the Citroen Cactus here.

Kia Rio (2015) Review

The Kia Rio is a popular choice in the compact hatchback segment. Gero Lilleike reviews the 2015 Rio 1.4 Tec derivative in Cape Town.


The Kia Rio is the brand’s best-selling vehicle globally and has enjoyed much success in the local market with sales averaging over 200 units per month in 2014. The facelifted Kia Rio was introduced to market in February 2015 with some minor exterior and interior changes to keep it relative and competitive, but it faces serious competition in the B-segment from cars such as the Volkswagen Polo, Renault Clio, Opel Corsa, Ford Fiesta and Mazda2.

Has Kia done enough with the updated Rio to take the fight to its competitors? We spent a week with the Kia Rio 1.4 Tec to see how it squares up in this segment.

Kia Rio Boasts Attractive Styling

One way to attract customers is to blow them away with attractive styling and Peter Schreyer, President and Chief Design Officer at Kia Motors, has done just that with this facelifted Rio. It’s difficult to deny the Rio’s good looks and it’s probably a big reason why it’s selling so well. This revised Rio comes with a re-worked “tiger-nose grille” and a new front bumper with lower air intakes and fog lights which gives the Rio a bit of sporty flair. It also comes fitted with some snazzy-looking 17-inch alloy wheels which rounds off a good-looking offering.

Average Interior

Step inside the Rio and you are met with a predominantly black interior with hard plastics dominating most surfaces. The interior layout is simple, neat and well put together. This facelifted model features chrome accents around the air vents as well as new piano black trim around the radio, which in the opinion of some reviewers, looks rather tacky as opposed to being perceived as being upmarket. The CD radio interface also appeared to be dated, which is disappointing. Overall, there’s not much to get excited about inside the Rio as it seems to be rather ordinary.

This Kia Rio comes with a multifunction steering wheel with mounted audio and Bluetooth controls and the steering wheel is also height and reach adjustable. This particular model is fitted with comfortable leather seats and the driver’s seat is also height adjustable. There are also USB and Aux inputs for connecting devices.

In terms of space, the Kia Rio offers a fair amount and rear passengers will be happy with sufficient leg and head room. The centre rear passenger will however have to make do with a lap seatbelt which could be scary in an accident situation.

Family-orientated buyers will appreciate that the Rio comes fitted with rear ISOFIX child seat mounts. Boot space is in line with its competitors at 288-litres and expands to 923-litres with the rear seats folded flat. The loading sill is high though, which means you may pull a back muscle loading heavy items into the boot. This test unit also came fitted with an optional sunroof (R7 000) which brightens up the interior somewhat.

How does it drive?

Our Rio test unit is powered by a naturally aspirated 1.4-litre petrol engine that offers 79 kW and 135 Nm of torque driving the front wheels via a 6-speed manual transmission. In real terms, those figures are sufficient for your average daily runabout, but if you are looking for punchy performance, you won’t find it in the Rio. It soon became clear, that despite its sporty looks, the Rio’s performance is rather sedate and you really have to hammer the pedal to get the most out of it. A turbocharged engine in the Rio would offer more flexibility and make the drive that much more exciting. Thankfully, shifting through the gears is relatively smooth and comfortable, making the Rio an easy, fuss-free car to drive on a daily basis, albeit lacking in the power department.

At higher speeds the Rio copes well but due to the lack of tractability, overtaking requires a bit of planning and downshifting to access the necessary power. The suspension is also quite stiff which translates into a firm ride. As a result, the Kia Rio doesn’t deal with poor roads very well and imperfections are felt crashing into the cabin regularly. Fuel consumption is decent though with Kia claiming 6.4L/100km on the combined cycle. We managed to crack that claim with the trip computer showing 6.3L/100km at the end of our week with the car.

The Rio comes fitted with an impressive six airbags, ABS, EBD and rear park distance control, but that’s where the safety features end. Most of the Rio’s rivals, such as the Volkswagen Polo and Ford Fiesta, offer traction control and ESP, which puts the Rio on the back foot in terms of safety spec.

Kia Rio Hatchback Price in South Africa

The Rio 1.4 Tec manual on test here is priced from R216 995 excluding the sunroof (R7 000). The hatchback range starts with the Rio 1.2 which is priced from R179 995, while the standard Rio 1.4 comes in at R203 995. Prices include a 5-year/150 000km warranty as standard, as well as a 4-year/60 000km service plan.

Verdict

The Rio won us over with its good looks, but excitement deflated the moment we stepped in for a drive. For a car that looks so pretty, we feel Kia could have done better with the interior execution as well as improving the ride quality.

The Rio, for some of us at least, is a firecracker that never sparked. Nevertheless, the Rio isn’t all bad as it offers decent space, a solid warranty and competitive pricing, which may be enough to keep buyers happy. The absence of ESP and traction control may be of concern to safety-conscious buyers, especially when considering other cars in this segment have moved the game forward in this regard. If looks and warranty matter above all else, then the Rio may be for you.

Second Opinion

This is an ultra-competitive segment and even though the Rio is well-built and affordable vehicle, it gets outgunned by its turbocharged rivals such as the Volkswagen Polo, Opel Corsa and Renault Clio. The new Mazda2 is also a seriously good car for a lot less money. Still, it offers a great warranty and will continue to sell in respectable numbers. – David Taylor

We like: Attractive styling, good warranty

We Don’t Like: Poor ride quality, sluggish engine, dated interior

Also Consider: Volkswagen Polo, Renault Clio, Ford Fiesta, Mazda2

Compare the Rio to the Polo and Clio here.

Buy a used Kia Rio on Cars.co.za

Kia Rio 1.4 Tec – Quick Specs

Kia Rio Tec

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Kia Rio still sold new in South Africa?

No, the Kia Rio was discontinued in South Africa in the first quarter of 2024. The 4th-generation model’s production did not include a right-hand-drive version for the South African market. It is now only available as a used vehicle.

What engines were available in the Kia Rio in South Africa?

The Kia Rio in South Africa was sold with two naturally aspirated petrol engine options: a 1.2-litre (62 kW, 120 Nm) and a 1.4-litre (73 kW, 135 Nm).

Is the Kia Rio a good used car to buy in South Africa?

The Kia Rio has a reputation for being a reliable and economical choice, making it a popular option on the used car market. Many late-model examples may still have the balance of a 5-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty, which provides extra peace of mind for buyers.

What are the main alternatives to the Kia Rio?

Direct competitors and similar alternatives to the Kia Rio in South Africa include the Volkswagen Polo, Hyundai i20, and Ford Fiesta.

Related Content

Buyer’s Guide
Kia Rio (2017-2024) Buyer’s Guide

Used Kia Rio (2017-2023) Buyer’s Guide (Video) 

Kia Rio (2011-2017) Buyer’s Guide

Reviews
Kia Rio Tec (2017) Review

Kia Rio Tec (2015) Review

Citroen Reshapes Local DS3 Range


The Citroen DS3 city slicker has had a range adjustment to its lineup and now will consist of just five models in total. Teamed with this arrangement is the introduction of the new Puretech turbo engine that was first debuted in the Peugeot 308 and then the Citroen Cactus.

The five models in the DS3 range consist of four hatchbacks and a single Cabrio model. “The upgraded DS3 line-up presents the distinctive DS offering in a more focussed range that emphasises high across-the-range equipment levels, new engine technology and a more succinct naming structure. It is further proof of our commitment to the SA market and its customers, and our intention to offer local buyers meaningful, desirable products,” commented Francis Harnie, managing director of PCSA.

The Five new DS3 Models Detailed

Of the five models, the entry level 60 kW version is the starting point DS3 in the range. The normally aspirated three-cylinder unit is credited with a maximum output of 60 kW, coupled to a torque peak of 118 Nm. Drive is to the front wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox.

One step up from the entry level DS3 is the DS3 Style.

Externally, the most obvious difference is the fitment of black, 17-inch alloy wheels. Also visible are the dark-tinted rear side windows, while those with an eye for detail will also note the rear parking sensors. Both white and black roof colours are offered.

However, the biggest change is hidden under the bonnet. The DS3 Design is powered by the turbocharged, e-THP version of the 1.2-litre PureTech engine, linked to a five-speed manual gearbox driving the front wheels. As a result, power output increases to 81 kW and 205 Nm torque.

The DS3 e-THP 81 kW Style hatchback is partnered by two further Style models, both sharing the same standard specification levels.

The DS3 Cabrio e-THP 81 kW Style is a cabriolet version of the DS3 hatchback. It features exactly the same platform and drivetrain as its tin-top stablemate, and therefore also benefits from the same power and torque output.

The third DS3 Style model on offer is the DS3 VTi 88 kW Style Automatic. It mirrors the DS3 Style 81 kW PureTech Style’s standard equipment list, but the drivetrain links a 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine to a four-speed automatic transmission.

The flagship of the updated DS3 range is the 120 kW Sport. It combines a more extrovert exterior treatment with more comprehensive standard equipment, while a more powerful drivetrain ensures that the go matches the show.

Tell-tale exterior features that set the range-topper apart from the other DS3 stablemates include new-generation DS LED Vision headlights, which combine Xenon and LED modules.

Inside, the cloth/Alcantara combination of the other DS3 models is replaced with perforated leather upholstery, while the gear level and the door panels are also leather-trimmed. Climate control is also fitted as standard.

For music fans, the DS3 Sport gets an upgraded audio system, while satellite navigation system is standard too.

The DS3 Sport is powered by a turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine with a rated maximum power output of 120 kW, with maximum torque of 240 Nm. Drive remains to the front wheels, but via a six-speed manual gearbox.

Pricing, service and warranty

DS3 PureTech 60 kW DESIGN                                R239 900

DS3 e-THP PureTech 81 kW STYLE                      R279 900

DS3 VTi 88 kW STYLE Automatic                            R294 900

DS3 Cabrio e-THP Puretech 81 kW STYLE            R304 900

DS3 e-THP 120 kW SPORT                                      R329 900

Prices include a three-year/100 000km warranty and a four-year/60 000km service plan. A five-year/100 000km warranty extension and FreeDrive (comprising a five-year/100 000km warranty plus five-year/100 000km maintenance plan) can be specified at added cost.

Toyota Hilux vs Ford Ranger vs GWM Steed: Ultimate Ride Comfort Test (Video)


In the second video of our 3-way Bakkie comparison, we again lined up the Ford Ranger Wildtrak, Toyota Hilux Legend 45 and GWM Steed6 but this time our aim was not to find out fast they were, but how comfortable.

Watch our offroad bakkie drag race here.

No, this time we wanted to work out which bakkie offered the most refined ride. And so the brains trust at Cars.co.za got together and came up with a very scientific test. It involved sourcing a silly amount of 20 litre paint drums, quite a few barrels of water and a bumpy road away from the city, near a farm.

Here we would determine the ultimate champion of comfort, with Dave Taylor in the Ford Ranger Wildtrak, myself Ciro in the Toyota Hilux and Ashley Oldfield in the GWM Steed6.

Before the test, we all agreed that the Ranger felt the most comfortable on tarmac, but would it emerge victorious, out here on the gravel which many South Africans tackle every day?

You’ll have to sit through three minutes of witty banter to find out.

Interested in a Ford Ranger?
Interested in a Toyota Hilux?
Interested in a GWM Steed6?

Compare the three bakkies in the video using our comparison tool here.

Ultimate Ride Comfort Test Video

Six Cool Things You Should Know About the Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG Coupe


The Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG Coupe is a masterstroke combination of everything the brand is capable of: power, luxury and technology. It also looks fantastic, like some sort of giant leather-lined torpedo of prestige. Its list of features is absurdly long and so we’ve attempted to summarise the coolest bits into a list, but you can read the full review here.

Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG – 6 Things You Should Know

One – The Price

At about R3.1 million, the S65 AMG Coupe is currently the most expensive Mercedes Benz available. And even that price is optimistic, given the options list. Our test unit came in at over R3.4 million.

Two – The Power
Mercedes-Benz-S65_AMG_Coupe_2015_1600x1200_wallpaper_5e

With a 6.0 litre biturbo V12 producing 463kW and 1000Nm of torque, it’s the most powerful production car ever from the brand. It has more torque than a Lamborghini Aventador and the new Mini Cooper S… combined. That figure of 1000Nm seems a bit convenient. We reckon they’ve had to limit the torque to that so it doesn’t tear up the gearbox.

Three – The Toys

Mercedes-Benz-S-Class_Coupe_2015_1600x1200_wallpaper_60

With six types of massage function, a screen that can show a movie to the passenger and anything else to the driver simultaneously, night vision cameras that can see far into the dark and detect pedestrian movement, a steering system which will keep the car between the lines on the highway, and a glass roof that can be clear or tinted at the flick of a button, the S65 Coupe is a rolling gadget fest and is full of ways to impress your friends.

Four – A world first: Active Curve Tilt Technology

Mercedes-Benz-S-Class_Coupe_2015_1600x1200_wallpaper_72

Part of the car’s MAGIC BODY CONTROL system, the cameras mounted behind the rear view mirror scan the road ahead and, when a corner is detected, instruct the system to drop the suspension on the inside wheels. The car literally leans into the corner, like a motorbike or a tilting high speed train. You can feel it, and it works.

Five – You’ll need a jeweler to fix the headlamps

Mercedes-Benz-S-Class_Coupe_2015_1600x1200_wallpaper_79

Try not have a bumper bashing as each headlight is crammed full of real Swarovski crystals. This optional extra adds R47 900 to the price tag, a sum of money which could probably buy you a decent second hand car on Cars.co.za.

Six – One Man, One Engine

Mercedes-Benz-S65_AMG_Coupe_2015_1600x1200_wallpaper_60

Every AMG engine is built according to the philosophy of one man, one engine, with a plaque bearing the engineer’s name fitted to the engine cover. If an engineer falls ill while building an engine, it will be stored until he can return to finish it.

Mercedes S65 AMG Coupe (2015) Review



 

There’s nothing quite like being handed the key to a car costing R3.5 million. Especially when the apartment you live in costs around half of that. However, we can assure you that after a week in what is essentially a rolling version of Vladimir Putin’s formal lounge, a car this expensive certainly makes you feel special. If you do have a few million Rand to splash on a car, chances are you’re the sort of person who likes to be driven. For your money there are many luxury cars which provide sumptuous limo-like space in the rear.

But if you have Russian oligarch levels of wealth, sometimes you want to actually drive in pure, unadulterated luxury. It is for this customer that Mercedes Benz has created a very special car.

The S65 AMG Coupe replaces the CL in the company’s line up, and is currently the most expensive Mercedes Benz available in South Africa, with a list price of around R3.1 million. That price is very optimistic, given the extra options available. Playing around on Merc’s car configurator, we reckon this test unit was worth around R3 435 500.

Engine Outputs

It is also the most powerful Mercedes ever, and the tenth most powerful car in the whole world, in terms of torque. What an engine. A 6.0 litre Biturbo V12 with 463kW and 1000Nm of torque. To put those figures into perspective, that’s more power than the latest Ferrari 488, and more power than a Bentley Continental W12 – the S65 AMG Coupe’s key rival. There’s more torque than two Mercedes-Benz A45 AMGs… combined.

It is a typical V12 with equal parts smooth and brutal, a delicate balance in which Mercedes seems to specialise. A cold start greets you with a deep, grumpy growl, which settles into a confident burble. The engine is so powerful that the car only uses second gear to pull off in most drive modes. Engage sport mode and onlookers are treated to artillery-like backfires from the quad exhausts at full throttle.

Cabin and Technology

The cabin is significantly nicer than most apartments. Two huge flatscreens dominate the swooping wood and leather dash, displaying everything from DVDs to a night vision camera which highlights pedestrians automatically in complete darkness. Fit and finish is remarkable. The quality of workmanship in here is the best we have ever come across in a production car.

The touchpad and wheel enables you to control every aspect of the infotainment, navigation and telephone. If we have a criticism, it’s one that is mostly due to economies of scale. This centre jog wheel, resting underneath a floating touch pad, is identical to the one found in the C-Class, a car which has a sticker price roughly ten times less than the S65 AMG Coupe. Perhaps the interior engineers at Mercedes reasoned that a buyer of an S Coupe would never be seen dead in a C Class, so they’ll never find out anyway.

You control the massage function from here too; six types are on offer for driver and passenger. The front seats, which are enormous and enormously comfortable, can be heated, cooled and electronically morphed to perfectly fit your body. They are exceptionally large and comfortable, almost giving the impression that the car was built around them, rather than vice versa.

Rear passengers don’t have nearly as much legroom as you and any passenger would battle to sit behind a driver of tall height. The car is comfortable for three adults on long journeys, with the passenger seat slid forward.

Is fuel consumption important when you’re spending over R3 million on a car? If you must know, after an afternoon of enthusiastic driving, the result of which you’ll be able to see in our upcoming videos, the big Merc achieved 20L/100km. On relaxed motorway journeys we achieved around 15L/100km. Not surprising, as all I really did was receive a massage and allow the Distronic radar cruise control system to handle the actual driving, with the Steering Assist system keeping the car between the white lines.

It’s all quite magical. Magical is a word that Merc loves. Firstly, there’s Magic Body Control, which uses two cameras mounted behind the rear-view mirror to scan the road ahead and set up the suspension to handle the upcoming imperfections. If a pothole is only going to affect the left wheels, it balances the system accordingly. The system will also lower the suspension on the inside wheels to lean the car into the corner, a bit like a motorbike.

There’s also Magic Sky Control, which at the flick of a button, sends electric current through the roof glass, to tint it dark from clear or vice versa. This works well and almost completely blocks out the sun.

How Does It Drive?

Regardless, the remarkable thing is given the level of comfort, given the sheer size of the thing, you’d expect it to handle like a speedboat. At pace, it instills confidence in the driver to push, which is delightful and unexpected. On a twisty mountain pass, I think the S65 AMG Coupe could keep up with some seriously quick cars, especially given the way it devours anything resembling a straight stretch of road.

The feeling of acceleration, when the rear tyres get traction, is surreal. The surge is relentless, and so powerful that it activates those instincts in your body which tell you something is really not right, and that you should probably cease this activity immediately. It’s wonderful.

The week before I drove the S65 AMG Coupe, I spent a few days in the CLS 63 AMG. While that car makes a wonderful racket from its biturbo V8, it felt like it wanted to murder me, especially in the rain. The S65 AMG Coupe is not like that at all. It’s planted, well balanced and extraordinarily comfortable.

Summary and Conclusion

There are some venerable, ultra-luxury coupes on the market. The Bentley Continental has set the standard for years. But we’ve never been in a car which combines exceptional technology with exquisite detail quite like this. Mercedes can be very proud of this one; at any price, this could be one of the best cars ever built.

Mercedes Benz S65 AMG Coupe Price in South Africa

The S65 AMG Coupe is priced from R3 087 013 and comes with a two-year/unlimited km warranty and six-year/100 000 km maintenance plan.

Second Opinion

The Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG Coupe is quite easily the ultimate car. Not only does it offer superb performance, but its also achingly pretty and jammed with some incredible tech. As far as motor vehicle perfection goes, this is probably the greatest and is priced well, given the calibre of its competition – David Taylor

We Like: Incredible levels of luxury, tech, comfort and power

We Don’t Like: Some bits and pieces also available in lesser models. The optional carbon ceramic brakes can be a bit noisy, and although that’s normal, it is irksome in such a prestigious car.

Also consider: Bentley Continental W12, Rolls Royce Wraith, Ferrari FF, Aston Martin Vanquish

Quick Specs

S65-AMG-Specs

 

New BMW X1 Revealed



BMW has officially revealed the new 2016 X1 crossover which offers a number of enhancements over its successful predecessor.

New Dimensions

The new BMW X1 has grown somewhat with an increase in height of 53 mm compared to its predecessor. This translates into a larger passenger cabin and a raised seating position at the front and rear now gives both the driver and passengers a better view of the road ahead. Boot capacity has also improved by 85L compared to the outgoing model with the new X1 now offering 505L boot space. The rear bench is split in a 40:20:40 configuration and when folded down, capacity increases to 1 550L. The rear bench is also able to slide 13mm forwards and backwards for added versatility.

Interior Features

Apart from the driver-focused cockpit and premium detailing associated with BMW, the new X1’s standard equipment includes air conditioning, audio system, USB/Aux inputs and iDrive operating system via a 6.5-inch freestanding display.

For further individulisation, buyers can opt for the Advantage, Sport Line, xLine and M Sport packages which bolsters features even further. There’s also an optional BMW heads-up display on offer as well as a Driving Assistant Plus Package which adds Cruise Control, Stop & Go, Lane Departure Warning, Traffic Jam Assistant, Collision Warning and Pedestrian Warning with City Braking.

Engine Choice

A choice of two petrol and three diesel engines will be made available at launch, all of of which are 2.0-litre, four cylinder units with power outputs ranging from 110 kW to 170 kW. These engines can be mated to either a 6-speed manual or 8-speed Steptronic transmission. The range will eventually be expanded to include 1.5-litre, three-cylinder entry-level variants. Depending on the model, buyers can also opt for the XDrive all-wheel-drive system.

The new BMW X1 will go on sale in Germany in October 2015 and can be expected in South Africa in the same month, according to BMW South Africa. We will keep you updated when local specs and pricing becomes available.

Lexus NX 200t F-Sport (2015) Review



Lexus is stepping into the medium-sized SUV market with the new NX as it eyes out a bit of brand expansion. Considering the explosive growth that this segment has experienced in recent years, this may be a very wise move indeed. The Lexus NX is certainly an interesting looker. Outside the NX looks like a piece of modern architecture with its sharp angles and harsh creases. It’s easy to see that Lexus is after a more youthful buyer and we, as a team of youthful car testers, spent a week evaluating it.

Where does it fit in?

Lexus’ NX is aimed at the Goldilocks segment for SUVs, not too big in size to come across as obscene or excessive but sufficiently sizeable to distinguish it from the everyday compact SUVs. Its closest rivals are probably the BMW X4 and the Range Rover Evoque, which both also offer a measure of design appeal and family friendly spaciousness.

Notwithstanding its outlandish outside appearance, however, the Lexus NX still offers a lot of cabin space. Rear legroom is probably best in this class, and the boot is well-shaped and sized to accommodate a family’s luggage.

Lexus style

During the week the new Lexus NX spent with us it seemed the looks were a large talking point. The exterior does boast lots of sharp angles in an attempt to be aggressive, but also to look modern and relevant as per the new Lexus philosophy. Most of the people who commented on the NX were positive with their remarks, but those on the other side of the fence described it as overstyled and fussy. Either way it’s a bold new look for a Lexus and will certainly attract attention out on the street.

Inside story

The interior of the NX is much more sedate than the exterior. Most of the sharp angles are replaced with familiar Lexus buttons, screens and instrument layouts. As per usual for a Lexus, the NX boasts a very comprehensive standard specification. Leather is applied everywhere and goes along with beautiful stitching, and there are electrically adjustable seats and steering wheel, auto lights and wipers, climate control and heated seats on every model except the entry level 200t E. It’s the Lexus way of making sure the buyer gets everything in the car rather than extending the price through optional extras (like the German brands). The F-Sport model here just kicks things up a notch with its own steering wheel and gear lever, adaptive suspension and sporty seats.

While the NX offers class-leading spec, the end result is however an interior that doesn’t quite match up to the competition in terms of ease of use and outright prestige. It’s beautifully built and we didn’t hear any squeaks or rattles, but ergonomically it could be better. The infotainment system has had an update and it’s better with a touch pad on the centre dash that pulses with haptic feedback, but it still isn’t as simple to use as the German vehicles’ control systems. The menus can be difficult to get through and using the map and navigation system for anything other than an exact address can be infuriating.

Safety

In terms of your basic safety needs the NX takes care of everything, but maybe misses a trick by not featuring any high-tech crash mitigation systems. It is equipped with ABS, EBD, stability control, traction control and hill start assist. Topping the safety side of things off is a full house of eight airbags.

Turbo engine

The Lexus brand was given a hard time for its underperforming engine lineup in the past. The NX features a new 2-Litre turbocharged petrol engine that puts out 175 kW and 350 Nm, putting it perfectly on par with its competitors. The range lacks a diesel model, but does have a hybrid 300h EX for those who want to go that route. The 2-Litre delivers good power and it accelerates rapidly for an SUV. The turbocharger kicks in nice and low down the rev range so overtaking with the auto box is simple. Speaking of the gearbox, it’s a six-speed automatic which is good at being a cruiser’s gearbox, with shifts happening quietly in the background. When you plant your foot, however, it’s slow to react and can be jolty in sport mode.

Ride and handling

Compared with its firm-riding rivals, the Lexus NX offers quite a soft and pliant suspension set-up. This despite it having an adaptable suspension setup. The NX drives well over just about any surface, even with the 18-inch wheels on the F-Sport. It should be mentioned that you can spec spine-crunching 20-inch wheels on its competitors.

Lexus has obviously stuck to its core beliefs with ride comfort as the NX works well as a long distance or comfortable everyday car, but lacks a bit when it comes to sportier driving circumstances. You won’t see an NX driver enjoying a pacy drive over a mountain pass or going anywhere particularly quickly. There’s a fair amount of body roll in the chassis and the electric steering over-assists and lacks any real authoritative feedback.

Verdict

The Lexus NX is a stylish attempt at a premium, medium-sized SUV. It combines incredible levels of standard specification that its rivals can’t get close to at an excellent price. The interior is superbly built but lacks the ease of use and ergonomic layout the others have. The ride is comfortable but not sporty and the engine behaves well and provides a reasonable return between stops at the fuel station. It undercuts most of its direct rivals like the Range Rover Evoque and BMW X4 by close to R100 000 at equivalent spec levels. But if you’re not basing your decision on the funky design, then something like a Volvo XC60 R-Design provides stiff competition too.

Lexus NX Price in South Africa

The Lexus NX 200t E starts off the range at R539 900 before the mid-spec 200t EX costs R579 900. This F-Sport we had on test costs R659 900 and the NX 300h EX hybrid costs a little less at R633 000.

Second Opinion

The Lexus NX 200t represents the latest from the luxury Japanese brand. Its turbo engine is a new venture for Lexus too. While its quirky looks may not appeal to all tastes, there’s no denying the premium feel and excellent build quality. It’s also a lot cheaper than the competition, which puts it in a strong position. In this segment though, the lure of an Evoque is tough to resist. -David Taylor

We Like: Build quality, comfortable ride and new engine

We Don’t Like: Not very sporty to drive, interior design a bit clumsy and difficult to use

Also consider: Range Rover Evoque, BMW X4, Volvo XC60

Compare the Lexus NX with the BMW and the Range Rover here

Quick Specs

Lexus NX200t Specs

2016 BMW 7-Series Teased Ahead of Reveal


A teaser video showing the next generation BMW 7-Series has hit the web and BMW itself has confirmed an international reveal on the 10th of June 2015.

We’ve seen plenty of pre-production prototypes of the flagship luxury sedan, but this is the first time we’ve had anything official that points to a launch date. In the video, we can see the expected luxury and premium touches will be the order of the day and the 2016 BMW 7-Series will also feature a prominent grille with laserlight headlamps.

More details are scarce as BMW is protective of its flagship model, but has confirmed the model will be around 130kg lighter than the previous car due to a carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic body structure. It’s called Carbon Core and is a great way of keeping things rigid and strong, without compromising overall weight. The next generation of TwinPower Turbo engines as well as a two-axle air suspension with auto self-leveling will also make an appearance in the 2016 BMW 7-Series. Being the flagship model, technology in the car promises to be next level, with a remote parking system as well as a gesture-controlled iDrive Touch Display infotainment system.

Will the 2016 be good enough to match the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, a vehicle that dominates the segment? BMW hopes so and past 7-Series vehicles have been generally good to drive. The countdown to 10th of June 2015 begins.

2016 BMW 7-Series Teaser Video