The apparent success of the Volvo XC90 since its reveal last year (2014) has convinced the head honchos at Volvo that an S90 is the perfect name for the new S80. The S90 will seemingly aim at the luxury sedan market competing with the BMW 5-Series, new Jag XF and Merc E-Class.
Volvos S80 has always had a creamy soft ride that makes every journey comfortable but its certainly never been a drivers car. Volvos scalable architecture will be used as the base for the S90 much the same as the XC90, the platform is flexible in a similar fashion to VWs MQB platform that houses much of VW and Audis small cars.
S90 will make room for Limo model
With the S90 effectively steeping down a segment, it leaves room for a new Volvo to fill the gap at the top end of the luxury sedan market or Limousines. What vehicle it announces to fit in there isnt known yet but we could hear about it quite soon.
The S90 is penned to be built in both sedan and estate models shown above. Power will probably also come courtesy of the new range of 4-cylinder turbo motors, top of which is the 2.0-Litre supercharged and turbocharged T8 unit that combines with electric power to produce 294 kW and 640 Nm.
Mahindra Bolero Maxitruck Plus available in South Africa
There’s a new bakkie in town and it’s called the Mahindra Bolero Maxitruck Plus. Mahindra South Africa has expanded its bakkie lineup with the Bolero Maxitruck Plus which offers a larger payload and attractive pricing for those looking for an everyday workhorse to get the job done.
Rugged Capability
Perhaps not the prettiest bakkie on the street, the Bolero Maxitruck Plus puts looks aside and rather focuses on the task at hand. With its extended wheelbase and payload of 1 150 kg, the Bolero Maxitruck Plus is a working mans bakkie and is built to carry just about anything that needs moving, that’s what bakkies do after all.
Powering the Bolero Maxitruck Plus is a 2.5-litre turbodiesel engine that offers 46 kW and 195 Nm available from 1 400 rpm. A five speed manual transmission is fitted and together achieve a combined average fuel consumption of 7.0L/100km.
The Bolero Maxitruck Plus rides on 15-inch steel wheels with a 170 mm ground clearance. Leaf spring suspension with hydraulic dampers at both ends and hydraulic power steering should make life on the road a bit easier and more pleasant.
Inside, you are met with cloth upholstery, a two tone instrument panel and an auxiliary port. An immobiliser is fitted as standard.
The addition of the Maxitruck Plus to our Bolero pick-up range confirms Mahindras commitment to providing South African buyers with authentic, robust and functional vehicles that are tough, reliable and affordable, says Ashok Thakur, CEO of Mahindra SA.
Mahindra Bolero Maxitruck Plus – Price in South Africa
Mahindra Bolero Maxitruck Plus – R127 995
The price includes a 2-year / 50 000 km warranty with service intervals every 10 000 km.
Next-generation Ford Figo Spyshot
While the Cars.co.za editorial team was on the road, we spotted some camouflaged cars filling up with petrol. What on earth could they be?
Ford Figo Spyshot
Upon closer inspection, it turns out that these two are in fact the next-generation Ford Figo which are here undergoing local testing. There was a hatchback that was about the same size as the outgoing model, with the sedan being about the same dimensions as a Toyota Etios sedan. The sedan looks remarkably like the Ford Figo concept I saw in India in 2014.
Despite heavy camouflage and not a single badge on the car, the main giveaway was the trademark Ford grille which has been seen on the new Focus and Fusion. I managed to get a peek inside and the centre console looks much like the current generation Fiesta, with the sedan boasting an automatic transmission.
Mazda3 Review (2015)
We review the 2015 Mazda3 2.0 Astina to find out if it’s a hatchback worth considering in this competitive segment.
In this 2025 review of the Mazda3, we examine the pros and cons of considering the Mazda3 as an option if you’re looking for a stylish and well-appointed hatchback.
Mazda3 – Quick Specs
We Like: New styling, handling and sporty feel
We don’t Like: Interior a little dull and the automatic can be sluggish
Also consider: Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, Honda Civic, Hyundai i30
Mazda is well on its way to getting back on track in South Africa. Its new models have been well received with the CX-5 selling well and the new Mazda2 is looking like a real winner in its segment.
The Mazda3 has long been a rival for VW’s Golf and Ford’s Focus. It has lost some of its popularity in recent times due to some iffy styling and average value for money offerings. We spent a week with the top-of-the-range Mazda3 2.0 Astina Hatch to determine what improvements have been made.
Where does a Mazda3 fit in?
Mazda is aiming the Mazda3 at the more premium end of the C-Segment hatchback market. Across the range it’s pretty well-specced and Mazda places a high priority on driving dynamics, making sure the driver has a particularly good handling car that does more than just ferry things and people from A to B. The new design theme Mazda employs on all its cars seems to be paying off quite well as the Mazda3 looks quite slim and athletic, with a visually longer bonnet and coupe-like shape.
Naturally aspirated engines
Mazda seems entirely sold on its natural aspiration technology that it calls SkyActiv. It claims that a high compression ratio petrol engine produces more power and reduces fuel economy. While other manufacturers have gone the small capacity, petrol engine route combined with a turbocharger, Mazda has done things a bit differently. The model on test here has a 2.0-Litre petrol engine capable of 121 kW and 210 Nm. The power figure is good and because it’s naturally aspirated, the Mazda3 has great throttle response and a smooth, linear power delivery. It does lack a bit of mid-range kick that turbo cars generally provide and that lack of kick sometimes backs you out of an overtaking manoeuvre.
Fuel economy is claimed at 5.9L/100km and during our week, we saw mostly high 6s to early 7s, which is acceptable for a combined run. The Astina model only comes with a 6-speed automatic that’s not as sharp as a dual-clutch box but gets the job done without too much fuss. I would still opt for the manual, however, as it’s more fun to drive.
Inside the 3
There’s a lot to like about the Mazda3’s interior, it feels well-built and solid in most places with a mix of soft-touch and durable plastics. It is however a little on the bland side when compared to the athletic looking interior and sporty nature Mazda is aiming at. The Mazda3 in Astina spec is incredibly well kitted.
You get a 7-inch touchscreen that can also be controlled via a rotary knob in front of the centre console. The screen works as your go-to place for connecting your phone via Bluetooth, using the navigation, connecting to apps for global radio stations and fine tuning the Mazda3’s vehicle settings.
It’s quite an easy system to get the hang of and works quite intuitively. Also standard on the Astina model is a heads-up display that shows your speed at eye level with the road. This system isn’t the best as it’s not all that clear and seems like a bit of an afterthought.
In the spirit of delivering a safe car to the public, the Mazda3 comes standard with 6 airbags as well as ABS, EBD, stability control and traction control. Euro NCAP also gave the Mazda3 a 5-star rating for safety.
Ride and Handling
This is where Mazda aims to please and the 3 delivers well. It’s not over-complicated and it relies simply on good weight distribution and responsiveness. It’s not mega hot hatch stiff but it feels grippy through the bends and communicates the chassis’ happenings right back to the driver’s fingertips and bum.
It doesn’t stick to the tarmac beyond belief but lets you play with the limits quite freely, it never feels out of control or if the limit is hit that you’re headed for a big accident. It’s a fun driver’s car without all the modern-day electronic wizardry that sometimes feels like it’s driving the car for you. On an everyday drive to work the ride is supple if a little soft and it doesn’t particularly enjoy big hits like potholes or sharp speed bumps as they intrude into the cabin with a knock.
Mazda3 – Verdict
The Mazda3 plays well to its strength as a driver’s car, something for the enthusiast that likes the feel of a revvy naturally aspirated engine with some good old-fashioned road holding dynamics. It’s well specced and offers good value for money when compared to its rivals. It’s worth a look in the ultra-competitive C-Segment if you’re after something a little different and stylish. If you don’t absolutely need an automatic, go for the manual option and you’ll derive a lot more enjoyment from the Mazda3.
Second Opinion
The Mazda3 is a good-looking car that offers offers both comfort and solid driving ability. The ride is blissfully smooth and the car feels well-planted on the road. Cruising is where the Mazda3 excels, and if you enjoy cruising then the 6-speed automatic does a fair job of it and long-distance driving in the 3 should be a pleasant experience. Performance is brisk but not blistering and even so, the Mazda3 has loads to offer in terms of features and styling. This is a car well worth consideration in this segment of the market. – Gero Lilleike
Mazda3 Pricing in South Africa
*Note that 2015 pricing for the Mazda3 is shown here
The Mazda3 offering starts at R232 900 for a 1.6-Litre Original, our top-of-the-range 2.0 Astina automatic model comes in at R326 300.
Is the Mazda3 available as a sedan and hatchback in South Africa?
Yes, the Mazda3 is available in South Africa in both sedan and hatchback body styles. Both versions offer the same engine and trim level options, with the choice of body style catering to different customer preferences regarding practicality and design.
What engines are available in the Mazda3 in South Africa?
The Mazda3 in South Africa is powered by a 2.0-litre, naturally aspirated Skyactiv-G petrol engine. It produces 121 kW of power and 213 Nm of torque. This engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission across all models.
What are the main safety features of the Mazda3?
The Mazda3 has a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating. Standard safety features include seven airbags, ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and Hill Launch Assist. Higher-spec models come with a comprehensive suite of i-Activsense safety features, such as Blind Spot Monitoring, Lane-keep Assist, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.
Is the Mazda3 a good alternative to premium brands?
The Mazda3 is often seen as a strong value-for-money alternative to entry-level premium brands like the Audi A3, BMW 1 Series, and Mercedes-Benz A-Class. It is praised for its high-quality interior, refined driving experience, and sleek design, which give it a premium feel without the premium price tag.
Three Unusual Reasons Why The Nissan NP200 Stealth Is Awesome (Video)
Small bakkies are becoming mightily impressive – and not just in terms of what they can carry. However at 800kg, which is the largest payload capacity in the segment, the Nissan NP200 is not exactly found wanting.
Where South Africas most popular sub-tonne bakkie could improve is the looks. In plain, workhorse white, the vehicle has a distinct commercial look about it and it comes as no surprise that many small business owners have chosen the NP200 as their vehicle of choice.
The thing is, we spend most of our time sitting inside the bakkie, so thats where we really need the car to shine. And in an age of constant connectivity, what we really care about is safely making a handsfree call over Bluetooth. And a USB port would be nice.
Thankfully all these concerns have been addressed with the Limited Edition Nissan NP200 Stealth. Based on the NP200 which sells incredibly well in South Africa, the Stealth has the same 1.6 engine, the same impressive load capacity and the same 6 year/150 000km warranty of any other NP200, but it looks really, really cool.
Customised body paint, wheels and decals separate it from any other NP200 on the road, and for the same price as the normal NP200 1.6 S, Nissan will throw in a huge list of extras, all of which are featured in our video.
But we thought at that price, perhaps owning this little bakkie is in some ways better than owning a small car. Which weve tried our best to demonstrate
If you are interested in purchasing a Nissan NP200 Stealth, click here:
Volkswagen likes to produce a concept of what an extremely mad GTI would look like. As part of the Vision Gran Turismo concept idea, VW has produced a GTI Supersport Vision GT that will make its way to the Gran Turismo Playstation game eventually.
Worthersee Special
The bonkers GTI may also be shown in physical form at the Worthersee show in Austria in June 2015. In 2014 VW revealed the GTI Roadster concept that turned the GTI into a coupe and a low slung sportscar. This GTI Supersport is a follow up to that, and details have now been revealed.
The car is fitted with a brutal VR6 TSI engine that offers 370 kW and 665 Nm of torque mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. Those figures will keep most people glued to the game. A 0-100kph sprint time of 3.6 seconds and a top speed in excess of 300kph is nothing to scoff at either. The car also features 4MOTION all-wheel drive to keep you on track for longer.
In terms of design, the GTI Supersport Vision GT rides low on an aerodynamically optimised body. The front end features vertical light modules, large air intakes, roof edge spoiler and diffuser. The car can be raced in ‘Reflex Silver’, ‘Gran Turismo Red’, ‘Lapiz Blue’ or ‘Oryx White’.
Volkswagen GTI Supersport Vision GT Video
Merc Adds Five New Models to C-Class
A year on from the international launch of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Merc is expanding the range of the premium sedan. Both the sedan and estate will benefit from the extended model range.
Entry Level C-Class
The new entry model will be called the C160 and is actually a 1.6-Litre unit. It puts out 95 kW and 210 Nm. Its not horribly slow either as Merc claims it will accelerate from 0-100kph in 9.6 seconds with a six-speed manual gearbox. The C160 will also use just 5.2L/100km.
The C200 and C220d models will be made available with 4Matic Mercs four-wheel drive system. No engine changes are made to these models though.
The four-cylinder engines will have a new most powerful model added to the range with the C300. The 2-Litre turbo has had the wick turned up to 180 kW and it can get to 100kph in 5.9 seconds. Fuel consumption comes in at 6.3L/100km.
C450 AMG
For those who have been wondering if Mercedes was ever going to produce a high powered C-Class, the wait is over. Thanks to a petrol V6, the C450 AMG can churn out 270 kW and 520 Nm. To put that power down on the ground Merc has decided it will be fitted with 4Matic. Zero to 100kph flashes up in 4.9 seconds and fuel consumption is claimed at 7.6L/100km.
The new C-Class models can be fitted if required with new options such as a head-up display and a touchpad. Mercedes-Benz has also very recently extended the range of equipment and appointment options, which now include a heated steering wheel and a revised choice of trims.
Lets hope that some of these new models make their way to South Africa, especially the C450.
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.
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
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.
