The Hyundai Veloster Turbo arrives in South Africa this week and we’ve got the pricing and some details.
The Veloster is a sporty coupe from the Korean brand that offers good looks as well as innovative doors. There’s a single door on the driver’s side, with two doors on the passenger side. It’s a strange combination, but it works.
One downside to the Hyundai Veloster was its performance. It’s 1.6-litre engine was never going to be a firecracker in outright thrills and instead offered adequate cruising ability. Hyundai has fitted a 1.6-litre turbocharged engine to the Veloster Turbo and this sounds a lot more promising. With 150 kW and 265 Nm on tap, performance is vastly improved and you’re now looking at something with a bit more street cred. I suspect this engine is identical to the 1.6-turbo used in the Kia Cerato Coupe, and if that’s anything to go by the results should be good.
The car will come in a six-speed manual transmission and you’ll see 100kph come up in a sporty 7.4 seconds. While it’s not a semi race car, it’s good to see some performance-orientated vehicles come from the Korean brand.
The Hyundai Veloster Turbo also comes with numerous go-faster visual upgrades. There’s a bigger front grille and bumper combination as well as big exhaust tips at the rear.
Pricing for the new Hyundai Veloster Turbo is R379 900 for the manual transmission, while the automatic retails for R399 900.
Range Rover Sport SVR Local Pricing
Range Rovers fastest and most powerful model yet, the Range Rover Sport SVR, is now available in South African showrooms. The first model to wear the SVR badge destined for all future high-performance Jaguar and Land Rover models made its local debut at the Jaguar Simola Hillclimb, in May 2015.
Performance
The Range Rover Sport SVR accelerates from 0-100kph in just 4.5 seconds, and on to an electronically-limited top speed of 260kph. Last year it also lapped the world-famous Nordschleife, in Germany, where it set a lap time of 8 minutes 14 seconds on the 20.8-kilometre-long circuit.
The SVRs range-topping 5.0-litre supercharged V8 engine has been developed to produce 405 kW and 680 Nm a substantial 29 kW and 56 Nm increases over the current range-topping V8 model without compromising fuel economy. And its advanced 8-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel-drive chassis have been optimised to deal with the added performance.
The Range Rover Sport SVR is equipped with a two-stage active exhaust featuring electronically controlled valves. The system optimises sound quality, performance and aesthetics and provides a racecar-inspired soundtrack at higher engine revs.
As standard, new 21-inch alloy wheels with 275/45 all-season tyres offer all-terrain capability. A bespoke interior featuring unique sports seats provides further visual differentiation and ensures occupants are held securely in place.
John Edwards, Managing Director of Land Rovers Special Operations, said: The Range Rover Sport SVR is a natural progression beyond the core vehicles outstanding on- and off-road capabilities and leading-edge design. Its exhilarating performance will satisfy a particularly demanding customer set.
A thorough range of revisions specially developed by Land Rovers Special Vehicle Operations combine to make this premium derivative even more distinctive both inside and out, as well as taking its dynamic capabilities to the next level without impacting on comfort, refinement or all-terrain versatility. The Range Rover Sport SVR is truly the worlds most capable performance SUV.
SVR is fitted with permanent four-wheel drive and a two-speed transfer case, with a low-range option for demanding terrain, and a 50/50 per cent torque split, front-to-rear. The upgraded air suspension system automatically varies between two ride heights, and the next generation of the Terrain Response 2 system automatically selects the most suitable terrain programme.
The Range Rover Sport SVR has been created by Jaguar Land Rovers Special Vehicle Operations team and all SVR models need to meet key performance criteria to wear the SVR badge. Range Rover Sport SVRs will be built alongside their mainstream sibling models in existing production facilities.
Range Rover Sport SVR Video
Range Rover Sport SVR Pricing
R1 865 200 (incl. VAT; excl. CO2 taxes of R20 725).
Opel Mokka 1.4T Cosmo Automatic (2015) Review
With new offerings arriving on the market on an almost monthly basis, the compact crossover segment is quickly becoming a crowded place. Opels offering, the Mokka, was recently added to the mix and adds to the confusion size-wise it not only straddles the B (Renault Captur, Nissan Juke etc.) and C (Hyundai ix35, Toyota RAV4) segments, but also attempts to offer technologies and features typically packaged into pricier and bigger vehicles, into a slightly more affordable, and more compact body. Is it trying to sit on too many chairs?
Compact and muscular
The Opel Mokka was first launched in Europe in 2012, so in reality is half-way through its lifecycle already. Nevertheless, it is an attractive vehicle with compact, muscular styling that is enhanced by the generous specification of this Cosmo variant striking 18-inch wheels are standard, for example. Interestingly, it’s not based on the Corsa, as most people would assume, but uses the General Motors Gamma II platform that also underpins the Chevrolet Sonic. Chevrolet itself offers a very similar vehicle called the Trax, which is unlikely to come to South Africa for obvious reasons.
Perhaps as a result of its platform age, the Mokkas dimensions seem slightly out of step with the latest market arrivals. Although not much shorter than most rivals, it has a higher and narrower body. Most concerning, however, is the wheelbase, which at 2 555 mm appears to be very stubby and could impact on rear legroom.
Happily, the relatively compact dimensions have not resulted in what can be labelled a cramped cabin, even though cabin width is noticeably less than some rivals. Opels interior designers have fitted the seats quite high for that towering SUV feel, and this has consequently created quite a lot of foot space for rear passengers. The boot is claimed to swallow a handy 356 L-worth of luggage, and can be expanded to 785 L by folding the rear seats down. Interestingly, my usual test equipment (a three-wheeled urban stroller pram) couldn’t fit in lengthwise as the boot was too short. The Mokka’s boot is, however, quite deep.
Besides the low-profile tyres, other hints at the Mokkas tar-road bias include a space-saver spare wheel and relatively limited ground clearance (for a crossover/SUV).
Sophisticated, upmarket features
Within the snug cabin, Opel has crammed a very long list of standard equipment. More of that later The first thing that will catch you eye is the quality. Opel has made much of its premium ambitions in the past few years, and the results are very obvious in the Mokka. Theres a real quality look and feel to the trim materials, including the shiny bits, and the plastics and leather surfaces are soft to the touch where needed. We drove the Mokka on some very poor surfaces, too, and there was not a rattle or squeak to be heard.
A slight negative, however, are the ergonomics. As the Mokka is of a slightly older design, the facia is littered with buttons and some of those are very small too. It therefore takes a while to familiarise oneself with all the features (there are so many). On the other hand, the fitment of a properly up-to-date IntelliLink infotainment system, which allows the Mokka to connect to Apple iOS and Android smartphones, is a major boon.
Other highlights include heated front seats, park assist, cruise control and even a heated steering wheel. The seats, by the way, are superb, offering manual height adjustment as well as electric lumbar and cushion length adjustment.
As befits a near-premium SUV of this price, the Mokka Cosmo offers a comprehensive suite of safety features, including six airbags, ABS/EBD, ESP (electronic stability programme), automated high-beam lighting control, Isofix child seat anchorages and hill-start assist. No surprise then, that the Opel Mokka achieved a full five stars in EuroNCAP crash testing.
Relaxed performer
Powering the Mokka is Opels trusty 1,4-litre turbocharged petrol engine that delivers 103 kW and 200 Nm of torque. The engine is mated with a six-speed automatic transmission that drives the front wheels. The engine offers good theoretical flexibility, as the torque is available from 1 850 to 4 000 rpm. On the road the Mokka is indeed an enthusiastic sprinter, and should be nippier in most circumstances than its rivals from Mitsubishi and Nissan, which both offer less torque and CVTs (continuously variable transmissions).
In normal driving, there is precious little to complain about. It is only when a more hurried approach is adopted that some irritations become noticeable. When the throttle is pushed to the floor, the transmission can be a little slow at times to react, and when it does it generally sends the revs soaring by selecting too low a gear. You can shift manually, if you want to of course, but the shift button is awkwardly placed on the side of the gearknob
Then again, this car isnt aimed at boy-racers and most owners will find its blend of performance and tractability sufficient. In terms of fuel economy it also puts in a solid effort, with the claimed combined cycle consumption figure of 6.6 L/100 km only slightly bested by the rival Nissan Qashqai. During our testing, however, we achieved a real consumption average of around 8 L/100 km still good.
Sporty drive
Partly due to its compact dimensions, but also impacted by a relatively firm suspension set-up and the low-profile tyres, the Mokka feels stable and planted on the road, even when said road becomes twisty. We wonder, however, whether most owners wouldnt appreciate a slightly more forgiving ride, especially at low speeds and on poorer surfaces. The Nissan Qashqai, for example, offers a superior quality of ride.
On a longer trip with four passengers and a packed boot, the Mokka performed better than expected. The cabin is a quiet and comfortable place, with especially wind and road noise being blocked out well. And with the extra weight on board the ride also seemed more forgiving.
Conclusion and Summary
The Mokka is not a cheap vehicle and its price puts it among bigger rivals that on paper may appear to offer better value for money. But the Mokka is not a top seller in Europe without reason… The cabin is cleverly packaged to offer a blend of comfort, features, technology and quality that most rivals will struggle to match. It also offers a very appealing warranty/service plan combination and handsome looks. Although some families may find it a bit too compact, we think it will do well as an offering that appeals in equal measure to the head and the heart.
Opel Mokka 1.4T Cosmo Automatic Price in South Africa
The Opel Mokka 1,4T Cosmo Automatic costs R335 500 and comes with a five-year/120 000 km warranty, five-year/90 000 km service plan and five year/unlimited km roadside assistance.
Second Opinion
Opel’s Mokka is a great vehicle which slots in nicely between the likes of Ford’s EcoSport and the bigger and pricier Hyundai IX35. I did like the build quality, as well as the intuitive infotainment system. Mated to one of General Motors’ trusty small capacity turbo motors the Opel Mokka has sufficient grunt to get around town while not consuming unreasonable amounts of gas David Taylor
We Like: Quality, standard features, Info-tainment system
Buying a relatively affordable new vehicle with seating for seven people is in itself not a major challenge. After all, a minivan such as the ever-popular Toyota Avanza sells for as little as R180 000. But what to do if those two rear seats are too awkward to get too, or too cramped? And what if you needed the flexibility that greater cargo space provides? That is where a traditional utility van-based passenger bus, such as Nissans NV200, comes into play. But at a cost
A spacious box on wheels
Although the Nissan NV200 has humble utility van underpinnings, it does manage to look rather interesting. The headlamps are steeply angled and narrow, which combined with the pointy nose but otherwise blunt design, endow the NV200 with quite a futuristic appearance. This Visia specification model boasts all-round colour coding, 14-inch alloy wheels and fog lamps to make it look even less workhorse-like.
But lets be honest, few people are likely to buy the NV200 for its aesthetic qualities. Far more important is what lies underneath and how much of it. Were talking about space, of course. Interestingly, despite its visual bulk, the NV200 has the shortest wheelbase in its class. Happily this has not negatively affected cargo and passenger space, primarily because of the more pronounced box-shape of its body (compared with a rival such as the VW Caddy).
Even with all seven seats occupied there is considerably more boot space than in a vehicle such as the aforementioned Avanza, for example. Fold those two rear seats up against the sides of the boot (a la Fortuner style), and some pretty hefty pieces of furniture can already be accommodated. Helping in the loading process is a very low floor and bumper, as well as a completely flat cargo area. Note that, while the rearmost seats cant just be unclipped and removed, some light spanner work is all that is needed to take them out.
The middle row is split 60/40 and can be individually folded/tumbled to create even more space. With the rear and middle rows of seats out of the way, the loading area is truly cavernous, with items such as mountain bicycles swallowed whole with ease. As a load carrier, then, the NV200 is most definitely a winner. The maximum payload rating for this vehicle is a good 652 kg.
How does it fare as a people carrier? Well
Is it family friendly?
Hop onto the elevated drivers seat of the NV200, and you are likely to be surprised by the modern, car-like facia. Sure, the gearlever sprouts from the facia in typical van fashion, but the general design and layout wouldnt look of place in a more conventional passenger vehicle. As is to be expected, the plastics are of the hard-wearing type.
The driving position is excellent, with the steering wheel offering rake adjustment. Because the seat is mounted high and the windows big, visibility out of the vehicle is very good. The steering wheel itself is quite an upmarket item, as it boasts not only remote audio controls, but also buttons for the standard Bluetooth connectivity. Another nice touch is the audio system that includes aux and USB support. We also liked the placement of the drinks holders in front of the ventilation outlets (for cooling) as well as the nifty digital display in the instrument cluster that can provide a wide variety of trip information or even a digital rev counter.
The NV200 also offers a commendable array of safety features, including front and side airbags and the expected ABS/EBD. Perhaps somewhat surprising in this segment are the inclusion of Isofix child seat mountings and ESP (electronic stability programme).
Where the NV200 loses points, however, is in the area of oddments storage, especially towards the rear of the cabin. In front there is an open storage area where youd normally find a lidded cubby. Between the front seats there is a neat plastic tray with different sized compartments, but it is rather shallow and not really easily accessible to those seated in the middle row. Folks sitting in the middle row actually have nowhere to put their drinks or other items Another comfort-related problem is that there is no rear window wiper there is, however, a demister.
Strong performance, good economy
The Nissan NV200 is offered in South Africa with either a 1.6-litre petrol engine or, as is the case of our test vehicle, a 1.5-litre turbodiesel. Interestingly, the petrol outsold the diesel in 2014 even though the price difference is not massive and the service intervals are the same. The rental market, however, seems to prefer the diesel, with the low claimed fuel consumption of 5.3 L/100 km undoubtedly being a key factor. In the real world the figure remained well under 7 L/100 km, which is impressive. Given its size, the 1.5-litre engine does an impressive job. It delivers 66 kW and 200 Nm of torque, the latter figure already available at 1 750 r/min and endowing the NV200 with good responsiveness. Helping in this regard is the low weight of the vehicle (below 1.4 tonnes).
We tested the NV200 on the long road with a family of five and it proved to be up to the job, maintaining a steady 120 km/h with ease, and offering sufficient overtaking power where needed. The only slight concern is the gearing. Cruising along at 120 kph in top gear (fifth), the engine is already spinning at 3 000 r/min, so the resultant drone can become a bit tiresome. Perhaps a sixth gear wouldnt be a bad idea.
Easy to drive
With its utilitarian underpinnings, including rear leaf springs, the Nissan NV200 cant match the ride suppleness and control of more sophisticated car-based MPVs. This should not come as a surprise. For what it is, however, the NV200 does a good job. The steering is light and the turning circle small, making it a cinch to manoeuvre around town. The ride only really deteriorates on poor surfaces. And, impressively, it never feels as top heavy as it looks. Of course, given its underpinnings and skinny tyres, the presence of ESP brings some peace of mind.
Said peace of mind did however take somewhat of a knock when we pressed the ESP button and it disappeared into the dashboard
Conclusion and Summary
At more than R300 000, the Nissan NV200 does not come cheaply. If youre looking for primarily a family vehicle, then a traditional MPV such as Mazdas excellent 5 can be had for similar money and offers better refinement, luxury, performance and safety. However, if you need a working vehicle as much as a people transporter, then the Nissan comes strongly to the fore. Its two main rivals are more expensive, and either less comprehensively specced (Volkswagen) or cant match the Nissans back-up (Fiat).
Nissan NV200 1.5 dCi Visia Price in South Africa
The Nissan NV200 1.5 dCi Visia costs R308 400 and comes with a three-year/100 000 km warranty and roadside assistance. The price does not include a standard service plan.
Second Opinion
While it looks more suited to commercial operations the Nissan NV200 offers plenty of practicality for the private user, especially for a big family. It drives like a car and has a really decent diesel engine that combines adequate performance with good economy. An interesting alternative to the SUV brigade and worth a look. David Taylor
We Like: Spaciousness, standard Bluetooth, economy
We dont Like: Lack of second-row storage solutions
Also consider: Volkswagen Caddy Maxi 2.0 TDI Trendline, Fiat Doblo Panorama 1.6 MultiJet Dynamic
Bakkie Drag Race: Toyota Hilux vs Ford Ranger vs GWM Steed 6 (Video)
In the first of our bakkie shootout videos, we borrowed a large gravel parking lot outside Cape Town and lined up South Africas two most popular bakkies against a wildcard from China.
The GWM Steed 6 is a bold new entry from the brand. With a remarkably modern look and upgraded interior, it offers much of the space and comfort of its rivals, but at an almost unbelievably lower price. At R299 900, its tough not to consider the Steed 6 SX when looking to buy a 4×2 double cab.
The Toyota Hilux is now a bit long in the tooth and due to be replaced in 2016. But with that legendary nameplate, it still gives the Ranger a run for its money in the sales figures. In reality the Toyota still feels bulletproof, but many of the changes made feel a bit like a veneer.
The new leather seats look good and the touchscreen system isnt bad at all, but the driving experience feels very 90s indeed. The long-travel gear lever feels very similar to rowing a kayak and the venerable 3.0 D-4D turbo diesel has a noticeably narrow power band compared to the Ford, and is quite a bit noisier.
The Ford Ranger should be applauded for moving the game on substantially in this important segment. It truly does offer car-like levels of comfort and interior space. The large 3.2-litre turbodiesel outperforms the Hilux by 27 kW and 127 Nm, but with an extra 200kg of bulk, the biggest difference is in the way it cruises.
With the autobox fitted, this is a bakkie I could actually live with, and it looks damn good too. The Wildtrak auto is also listed at about R20 000 cheaper than the Legend 45 manual, and its hard to work out why.
The Ford Ranger is my pick of the bunch, but at half a million rand, Id be very tempted to pick up a nice second hand German SUV
Bakkie Shootout: Ford Ranger vs Toyota Hilux vs GWM Steed 6
Toyota Hilux 3.0 D-4D Double Cab 4×4 Raider Legend 45
Ford Ranger Double Cab Hi-Rider Wildtrack Auto
Price
R513 000
R494 900
Engine
3.0 litre 4-cyl turbo diesel
3.2 litre 5-cyl turbo diesel
Power
120 kW
147 kW
Torque
343 Nm
470 Nm
Fuel economy
8.6L/100km
9.1L/100km
0 100km/h
N/A
N/A
Top speed
170kph
Not available
Toyota Hilux 3.0 D-4D Double Cab 4×4 Raider Legend 45
GWM Steed6 2.0VGT Double Cab SX
Price
R513 000
R299 900
Engine
3.0 litre turbo diesel
2.0 litre 4-cyl turbo diesel
Power
120 kW
105 kW
Torque
343 Nm
305 Nm
Fuel economy
8.6L/100km
8.8L/100km
0 100km/h
N/A
N/A
Top speed
170kph
150kph
Range Rover Sport SDV8 (2014) Review
The words Range Rover Sport conjures up images of fire breathing V8 and V6 petrol beasts, however theres something to be said for a strong and torquey diesel. How does the diesel-powered V8 Range Rover Sport match up?
Diesel power makes a lot of sense in the premium SUV market as it provides good pulling power and overtaking performance, while returning not unpleasant economy figures.
Lumbering Diesel Range Rover Sport
Enter the Range Rover Sport SDV8, which is powered by a 4.4-litre turbodiesel V8 engine, the Range Rover SDV8 offers lumbering performance. Its 0-100kph time of 6.9 seconds is not far off when compared to its petrol brothers, and while it may offer 250 kW, it has a very handy torque figure of 740 Nm. Coupled with an 8-speed automatic gearbox with shift paddles located behind the steering wheel, the SDV8 looks like a luxurious and tough recreation vehicle. Think about well-off people who go caravanning or tow horseboxes. This vehicle would be more than up for those tasks.
In terms of fuel economy, it is claimed to consume just 8.9L/100km, but in reality youre looking at a bit more than that. Given the cars weight of around two tons, the engine works hard to get the bulky Range Rover Sport around and you’re more likely to see 10L/100km on the fuel consumption read out.
Credible Offroad Ability
The Sport badging on the latest generation of Range Rovers offers a supposed road biased and urban luxury SUV, but dont be fooled by this. While its on-road manners are generally flawless, its still a Range Rover and still able to traverse roads deemed impassable for the current generation of soft offroaders. It really doesnt muck about with its adjustable air suspension, low-range gearbox and various 4×4 modes.
It also offers a rather impressive wading depth of 850mm. The reality is that most Range Rover Sports will be city slickers and theres merit in that as the raised driving position is superb. Still, theres something extremely comforting about having the confidence to go anywhere you want if the need arises.
Luxury Trim and Fittings
Finishes are of the highest order in the cabin and in certain departments, its the passengers that receive the best comfort features! The rear in this particular vehicle for example, has two LCD screens and two sets of wireless headphones as well as jacks for AV cables.
Features of the Range Rover Sport SDV8 are plentiful. You get a fair amount of kit as standard, but in the Range Rover way you can always pay more for outright unnecessary things. This particular unit came with adaptive cruise control, chilled centre console storage area, Bluetooth, satnav, USB/Aux connectivity, heated and ventilated seats as well numerous parking cameras. The LCD main infotainment screen is getting on a bit and lacking resolution when compared to its rivals. I believe an all-new system is on its way and has been shown off in the new Land Rover Discovery Sport.
Summary and Conclusion
If the bling lifestyle and frequent trips to the petrol station arent your thing, then perhaps the Range Rover SDV8 diesel is what you should be looking at. Its certainly well-appointed and the diesel engine gives it some credibility for practical applications such as towing.
The diesel engine also rounds off the range nicely, and while its petrol siblings may be first to mind when you think of a Range Rover Sport, having a reliable and strong diesel workhorse in the lineup is a gentle reminder that these vehicles can actually be used for serious offroad applications. If you’re financially conscious then perhaps the mighty BMW X5 M50d would make for a better buy though but won’t offer the same offroad talent.
Second Opinion
The Range Rover Sport SDV8 is an incredible piece of machinery, its very hard to pick faults at and has want factor like no other SUV for sale. It does everything you could ever need a vehicle to do and still looks fast. You do however pay a seriously eye-watering premium for all of its capabilities, but for most in this price bracket its a pill worth swallowing. -Ashley Oldfield
Range Rover Sport SDV8 Price in South Africa
The Range Rover Sport SDV8 retails for R1 366 031 and comes with a 3 year/100 000km warranty as well as a 5 year/100 000km service plan. Service intervals are every 26 000km.
We Like: Stylish, offroad ability, luxury and premium feel
We dont Like: Price in comparison to rivals, dated infotainment screen
Also consider: Porsche Cayenne, BMW X5, Lexus LX570
The Audi TT is now in its third generation and we spent a week with it to see if it can continue to offer a great blend of sportiness and technology, without becoming a compromised daily driver.
The original TT rocked the world in the late 90s. Here was a coupe that combined athleticism with futuristic good looks that was fairly affordable at the time. The main concern with the first generation TT was, however, that it wasnt quite sharp enough to impress the real driving enthusiast, and more a boulevard cruiser, something which was addressed with the second generation which made landfall around 2010. That, however, was a little too clinical in operation, but it followed the same recipe of sporty dynamics without losing in the comfort and refinement stakes.
The third-generation Audi TT is the best yet. I had the pleasure of putting this new version through its paces at the local launch in Mpumalanga as well as a test through the finest mountain passes the Western Cape can offer.
One engine and one gearbox for now
Theres only one engine and gearbox combination on offer currently, with the only option being front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive Quattro. Power comes from a Volkswagen Group-sourced four-cylinder engine. This 2.0-litre turbo engine does duty in many products such as the Volkswagen Golf GTI. Its a terrific powerplant, offering zesty performance without wallet-sapping consumption. Power is rated at 169kW, while theres a rather potent 370Nm of torque and this reaches all four wheels through the superbly engineered S-tronic twin-clutch gearbox.
This gearbox is beautifully refined whether you leave it to its own devices in full automatic mode, or take the reins yourself via steering-wheel mounted shift paddles. Gear changes are wonderfully smooth, with barely any disruption to momentum as the car hooks up the next ratio. Thanks to some clever clutches, downshifts are even smoother and the car will be able to shift from 6th to 3rd without any lurching or hesitation. When youre in the mood for some enthusiastic driving, simply engage manual mode and each pull of the right (shift up) paddle results in an exhaust pop that few will grow tired of. Despite the enthusiastic nature of the sporty Audi TT, fuel consumption is not bad at all, with a claimed figure of 6.4L/100km. In reality youre going to get around 8L/100km.
Interior is a minimalist’s dream
The much talked about virtual cockpit in the Audi TT is simply superb. Analogue dials have been phased out in favour of an all-digital instrument cluster which integrates the satnav and infotainment screens. While it initially looks daunting, the system is straightforward to use and within a few minutes I had settled on my screen preferences. After flicking through the various modes, it appears that a small rev counter and speedometer, with the satnav map making up the background is the best combination (for me).
The specification in the Audi TT is comprehensive and after going through the list, I feel the price of the vehice is completely justified. There are two USB ports, climate control, cruise control, satellite navigation, Bluetooth and a reasonable audio system. Id go for broke and get the uprated Bang Olufsen setup as well as the incredible Matrix headlights which cleverly follows corners and adapt their beam intensity and direction in relation to other road users. Watch the system in action below:
There are so few cars that offer the accessible performance that the Audi TT offers. Audi has blended agility and a sorted chassis with a compliant ride so well, and youll really struggle to find a product that better answers the need for a sportscar that doubles as a daily driver. Theres very little body roll and the Audi TT is very forgiving when youre pressing on. Its only when youre really getting a move on that the TT will start displaying the understeering characteristics that are to be expected of an all-wheel drive car, but up to that heady limit it is actually a remarkably neutral handler and ultimately designed to be safe.
Summary and Conclusion
While the Audi TT Quattro has a lot to offer and the bottom line is that it’s an exceptional product, one has to wonder about the R70k discrepancy between the front-wheel drive model and the Quattro model. Youre not getting that much more car and the Quattro system does add a bit of weight. The difference may be ever so slight, but the front-wheel drive Audi TT feels the more nimble of the two. Performance aside, it would make a lot more sense to use that saving and splash out on some extras instead, like the sound system and fancy headlights I mentioned earlier.
In conclusion, a combination of accessible performance, minimalist interior design which is simply breathtaking and a forgiving, yet sporty drive make the latest incarnation of Audi TT an excellent offering. I do feel for Audi engineers as theyll have a serious headache trying to improve on this
Second Opinion
The new Audi TT is a hard car to fault. The exterior has been carefully sculpted to enhance its sportscar tendencies while the interior has a wonderful new take on fresh tech. The drive is responsive and light and its a fun car to push without testing your driving skills to the limit. The S Tronic gearbox is incredibly fast and responsive and arguably now sets the benchmark for a dual-clutch box (at this price). Best to stick with the front-wheel drive version though as quattro feels unnecessary. -Ashley Oldfield
Audi TT Coupe Quattro Price in South Africa
The Audi TT coupe Quattro retails for R642 000, but this particular unit was specced with around R80k worth of extras. The front-wheel drive version sells for R558 000. If you’re after more performance, the Audi TTS will arrive later in 2015.
We Like: Drive, engine/gearbox combination, incredible interior, handling
We dont Like: Price gap between quattro and front-wheel drive
After spy shots and leaked photos and engine spec reveals, Toyota has finally decided to show the world its new Hilux. It is calling the bakkie an entirely new development that aims to be easier to service, even more reliable, feature new diesel engines and offer a more luxurious and refined interior.
Toyota Hilux Details
The biggest addition to the all-new Hilux is the new engine lineup that features newly developed turbodiesel engines. We revealed the details on the 2.4 and 2.8-Litre versions earlier this month and you can see them here. The engines have improved power, torque and efficiency a welcome sight for long haul farmers. Theres also a new six-speed automatic gearbox that adds to the overall performance enhancements. The manual gearbox also features rev matching technology to ensure smooth shifts.
The exterior has obviously been restyled in order to make up for lost ground to the likes of the Ford Ranger. In particular the taillights have increased in size, wrapping around the rear fender. The front headlamps now feature LED technology, showing Toyotas willingness to make the bakkie appealing to SUV would-be-buyers as well.
New Interior
The interior looks to have taken a massive stride into the 21st century, showing a mix of durable and modern touches. Theres a touch screen that deals with all the audio functions and houses the rear-view camera display. The manual gearbox lever looks to be a much shorter than before and more car-like. Gearbox swapover from high to low range can now be done via an electronic switch, which may upset fans of the second lever.
Toyota South Africa has announced that the new Hilux will only be available in the first quarter of 2016 along with pricing and specification levels for local models.
The Peugeot 308 just arrived in South Africa and takes on the popular premium hatchback segment. With the likes of Audi’s A3 and Volkswagen Golf in 7 guise, the Peugeot has a fight on its hands.
The Peugeot 308 has an ace up its sleeve in the form of a European Car of the Year title as well as improved quality both inside and out. We put the latest offering from Peugeot into the studio and explored its features, space and abilities.
In the video you will get to see the Peugeot 308’s interior, its features and introduce its two closest rivals from Germany. For a more detailed look at how the Peugeot 308 stacks up against the Audi A3 and Volkswagen Golf 7, click here for the comparison page.
Citroen C4 Picasso Upgraded With Auto & Petrol Engine
The Citroen C4 Picasso has received an upgrade and now welcomes a new flagship 1.6-litre turbo-petrol model to the range. The new model is offered with a 6-speed automatic transmission and is only available in the Intensive trim level.
The 1.6-litre turbo-petrol engine offers 121 kW with 240 Nm of torque which translates into a 0-100 kph sprint time of 9.3 seconds with a top speed of 200 kph. Combined fuel consumption is rated at 5.3L/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 130 g/km.
Being a top-spec model, comprehensive features are part of the package and this includes auto headlights and windscreen wipers, tyre pressure monitoring system, ABS with EBD, ESC, Hill Start Assist, a total of six airbags, reversing camera and navigation system. The infotainment system also comes equipped with Bluetooth and a 8 GB hard drive Jukebox.
The new C4 Picasso model stands alongside two 1.6-litre turbodiesel models offering 85 kW and 270 Nm and mated to a 6-speed manual transmission.
The realigned range, topped off by a new automatic turbo petrol model, and featuring a comprehensive list of standard features, translates into exceptional comfort levels, a spacious interior and flexible load options. Value added pricing means that our Citroën C4 Picasso represents exceptional value, too says Francis Harnie, managing director Peugeot Citroën South Africa.
Citroen C4 Picasso 2-THP 121kW Intensive Auto – R369 900
Pricing includes a 3-year/100 000 km warranty, a 5-year/100 000 km service plan, as well as roadside assistance. There is an option to upgrade to FreeDrive (Full maintenance and warranty) or 5-year/100 000 km warranty extension. Services are at 20 000 km/1-year intervals on the petrol model and 15 000 km/1-year intervals on the two diesel derivatives.
