Volkswagen Golf SV (2015) First Drive

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

What is a Golf SV

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

Inside

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

Safety

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

Engines

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

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

Ride and Drive

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

Pricing

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

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

Hyundai i20 1.2 Motion (2015) Review

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

Spacious and practical

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

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

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

Well-balanced standard specification

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

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

Improved refinement

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

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

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

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

Conclusion and Summary

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

Hyundai i20 Price in South Africa

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

Second Opinion

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

We Like: Practicality, Comfort, Quality, Warranty

We dont Like: Overtaking power

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

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

Five Best Premium Sedans in South Africa

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

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

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

Five Best Premium Sedans

Mercedes-Benz C-Class

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

BMW 3-Series

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

Lexus IS

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

Infiniti Q50

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

Ford Fusion

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

Citroen Aircross Concept Revealed

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

Citroen Aircross Concept with unique features

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

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

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

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

Land Rover Discovery Sport Price in South Africa Announced

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

Discovery Sport is Big on Choice

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

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

Land Rover Discovery Sport Price in South Africa

Discovery Sport S 2.2 TD4 Diesel – R541 900

Discovery Sport S 2.2 SD4 Diesel – R590 300

Discovery Sport S 2.0 Si4 Petrol – R590 300

Discovery Sport SE 2.2 SD4 Diesel – R635 600

Discovery Sport SE 2.0 Si4 Petrol – R636 600

Discovery Sport HSE 2.2 SD4 Diesel – R692 300

Discovery Sport HSE 2.0 Si4 Petrol – R692 300

Discovery Sport HSE Luxury 2.2 SD4 Diesel – R731 400

Discovery Sport HSE Luxury 2.0 Si4 Petrol – R731 400

Volkswagen Golf SV Specs and Price in South Africa

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

See our first drive from the local launch here

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

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

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

Two Equipment Lines for Golf SV

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

Trendline (1.2 TSI 81 kW)

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

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

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

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

Engines for VW Golf SV

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

1.2-litre TSI 81 kW

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

1.4-litre TSI 92 kW

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

2.0-litre TDI 81 kW

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

Volkswagen Golf SV Price in South Africa

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

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

Mercedes-Benz Bakkie to be built by Nissan

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

Mercedes-Benz double-cab bakkie on the cards

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

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

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

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

*Pictured is the Mercedes-Benz Vans Concept

FAW V2 Limited Edition Model Announced

FAW Auto has launched a limited edition of its affordable base model V2 hatchback. The V2 was launched in SA back in October 2013 and the car has had some success thanks primarily to its price tag. Now there’s the limited edition model which goes by the quirky model name of V2 # LIKE.

The V2 #Like is named after the two most popular social media channels, Twitter and Facebook. The limited edition V2 # LIKE continues as an amazing value-for-money offering because it has an exceptional list of additional standard equipment and yet sells at the extremely competitive price of R109 995 including VAT and the list of features includes 15 inch alloy wheels, Bluetooth, i GO8 satellite navigation with touchscreen functionality, as well as a DVD/MP3/CD player for the audio system which also has upgraded 5-inch Sony speakers,” said Pedro Pereira, general manager of FAW Auto cars and light commercials in SA.

You have a choice of four colours (white, silver, black and blue) to choose from and the V2 hatchback is positioned towards the top end of the B-segment, meaning good interior space. The rear seats also have the ability to fold down, meaning increased carrying capacity. In terms of safety systems, the FAW V2 is not let down. You get driver and passenger air bags, anti-skid ABS brakes with electronic brake force distribution, side impact bars, a safety cell bodyshell, environmentally-friendly and fire-retardant interior trim, headlamp levelling adjustment, LED rear brake lights as well as front and rear fog lamps.

Powering the FAW V2 is a 1.3-litre four-cylinder petrol engine which has 67kW and 120Nm. Power is driven through the front wheels and the claimed fuel consumption is 6.5L/100km.

FAW V2 Limited Edition Price in South Africa

As mentioned, the FAW V2 limited edition #LIKE retails for R109 995 including VAT and comes with a 3-year/100 000km warranty and 3-year 45 000km service plan together with one-year roadside assistance. FAW Auto is backed by Imperial Group, which should add some peace of mind. The FAW V2 also spent six months in SA prior to launch to ensure it could handle everything that South Africa could throw at it, meaning this car is more than up for any local challenge.

Citroen C4 Cactus Price and Specifications Revealed

Getting a vehicle’s price and specifications well ahead of its South African launch is a rarity. Usually manufacturers keep tight-lipped on the magic numbers and for the media, it turns into a race to see who can get the pricing and specifications published first. This time it’s the Citroen C4 Cactus, a vehicle due for release towards the end of April 2015. I couldn’t believe my luck when a Citroen dealership had a shopping mall promotion featuring this car and the salesman obligingly handed over all the details.

The Citroen C4 Cactus recently won a World Car of The Year Award in the design category, and its easy to understand why. It looks revolutionary and futuristic with its narrow headlights and armour cladding on the side. This armour is called AirBump and is the perfect defence to low-speed collisions with things like shopping trolleys. Combined with some customisation options like body colours and AirBump colours, you’re looking at a very futuristic crossover.

Citroen C4 Cactus Price and Specifications

We’ll be getting two engines and two specification levels called Feel and the other is called Shine. In terms of engines there’s an entry level 1.2-litre VTI with 60kW, and there’s a 1.2-litre e-THP with 81kW.

Feel
ABS / EBA / EBD
Electronic Stability Control
Driver, front passenger, lateral and curtain airbags
Radio Mp3 player with four speakers, Aux / USB socket
Bluetooth
Air conditioning
Cruise control with speed limiter
Remote central locking with deadlocks
LED Daytime running lights
Front electric windows
Electrically adjustable door mirrors
7-inch Touch Drive interface
Steering wheel controls
16-inch Corner wheel covers

Shine
The Shine models come with the same safety features, but adds on the following:
Automatic air conditioning
Colour reverse camera with rear parking sensors
eMyWay satellite navigation
HiFi upgade (6 speaker, Jukebox, ARKAMYS amplifier)
16-inch anthracite ‘Square’ alloy wheels
Automatic lights and windscreen wipers
Front fog lights with cornering function
Dark tinted rear windows
LED interior mood lighting
Heated door mirrors
Front armrest
Additional USB socked in top box

Citroen C4 Cactus Price in South Africa

Feel
1.2-litre VTI 60kW R224 900
1.2-litre e-THP 81kW R259 900

Shine
1.2-litre e-THP 81kW R284 900

2016 Lexus RX 450h Unveiled in New York

The new Lexus RX has been officially shown off at the 2015 New York Auto Show and this luxury SUV is on a mission to reclaim market share.

The Lexus RX is the best-selling model in the company’s portfolio, with 2.1 million units sold around the world. To put that into perspective, three out of every 10 Lexus models is an RX. Not bad going as the RX is priced considerably higher than the smaller sedans.

Lexus RX Details

The 2016 Lexus RX features a completely new, luxurious interior to go with its fresh, new, chiseled body style. You can clearly see the similarities between the RX and the smaller NX as both feature very angled lines. The new Lexus RX is not just about looks though, as safety plays a key part.

“With the new Lexus Safety System+, we offer drivers an added level of occupant safety in a conveniently bundled package that leverages some of the latest accident prevention technology. We certainly expect the proliferation of these features to continue throughout the luxury vehicle market and our Lexus lineup as the industry remains steadfast in the pursuit of enhanced vehicle safety,” said Jeff Bracken, Group Vice President and General Manager Lexus Division.

There’s no denying the new Lexus RX looks a lot more aggressive thanks to its grille, LED headlights and daytime running lights. The car also rides on 20-inch aluminium wheels which can be customised with body colour-matching inserts. An integrated dual exhaust system has been added to give the rear a bit more of an aggressive appearance too.

It is however the cabin that has received the most attention and its not only about luxury features. There’s plenty technology too, with a color heads-up display (HUD) which projects vehicle info to the driver’s windshield, while the information display area, featuring an available 12.3-in. monitor with full-screen map, is situated atop the center stack. The shift lever, complete with leather boot, has been positioned away from the front of the instrument panel to optimize operability and create more space for the driver.

Cabin space in the rear has been increased, meaning more leg and knee room. The seats are heated and the rear seats fold down in a 60/40 split. If you’re entertainment minded, you can also fit 11.6-inch dual screens which slot into the back of the front headrests.

Powering the Lexus RX 350 is a new version of the 3.5-liter V6 that pushes out 225 kW, coupled with a new eight-speed automatic transmission. The hybrid RX 450h features the same engine, but it runs on the Atkinson cycle and works with an electric motor generator. Both cars have been tuned in anticipation of high fuel economy ratings and low carbon emissions.

In terms of safety and dynamics, the new Lexus RX offers impressive ability. Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) is standard, while Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) is available on select models. Each system is designed to help recognize the loss of vehicle control, and help manage potentially dangerous situations with automatic adjustments to help the vehicle maintain optimal traction. The RX also is offered in All-Weather Drive to help the RX’s handling performance and control on dry and slick surfaces alike.

Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) makes its debut in the Lexus RX for the first time. AVS electronically monitors and adapts the shock absorber damping and steering to help ensure optimal handling and ride depending on the driving conditions. The system is also designed to produce less body lean through corners, providing an engaging driving experience.

Lexus Safety System+ helps avoid collisions across a wide range of vehicle speeds under certain conditions. Introduced internationally, Lexus Safety System+ integrates several of the brand’s existing active safety technologies. These include the Pre-Collision System (PCS) that is designed to detect sudden stops initiated by the vehicle in front and can engage automatic braking in certain circumstances; Lane Departure Alert (LDA), and Automatic High Beam (AHB) that helps ensure optimal forward visibility at night.

The Lexus RX also uses a millimeter-wave radar that works together with a camera to help keep the vehicle in its intended driving lane via the Lane Keep Assist feature (LKA) and enhances target detection for the Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with full stop capability. Other available features that can help the driver include Adaptive High-beam System (AHS), a Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) and Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA).

The RX is an important model for Lexus in South Africa too, and should debut within the next six months.