February 2020 Issue 757
RSA: R44,90 (incl.VAT) Other countries: R39,04 (excl. tax) CARmag.co.za CARmagSA CARmagazineSA CARmagazineSA
TEST Hyundai Atos 1,1 Citroën C3 Aircross 1,2 Turbo Mercedes-Benz GLE300d Peugeot 108 1,0 Audi TT 45 TFSI
DRIVE Mercedes-Benz GLB250 Audi RS Q8 Hyundai Venue 1,0 TGDI Nissan Micra 1,0T Lexus RX450h Renault Kwid
Climber Datsun Go 1,2 CVT BMW M340i Citroën C3 1,2 INSIGHT Tesla Cybertruck Jaguar F-Type Mini JCW GP Porsche
Taycan 4S TECH Under the Mustang Mach-E’s skin BUY Used MPVs Starter classic: Honda Prelude SPEED 2020 F1 predictions
PHYSICS? (VRRR)
PAH!
The RS Q8 cares little for the laws of science as it
pummels the ground at 305 km/h...
TWO ATOS MERC OR
PLUS FIVE TESTED FERRARI?
Benz’s family- The perfect Our expert predicts
focused GLB driven tyke for A-to-Z? 2020’s F1 season
OGILVY SA 23947/E
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ALBERTON
welcome
February 2020 Vol 64.01 Issue no 757
from the
editor
ou generally get two types of CAR geot 108 (just plain good; 74), and drives of
readers (I avoid reducing people the updated Renault Kwid (sporting a pret-
Y to simple stereotypes but hear me tier face but the same structure; 48) and
out): there are those carphiles who relish Datsun Go (now with a CVT; 52).
reading about outlandish luxury and per- We continue ticking the sensible box-
formance cars, and then there are the read- es with two exciting new Citroëns (C3 on
ers vexed enough to pen letters accusing page 54 and C3 Aircross on 66) and a drive
CAR of being out of touch with Joe and Jane in Nissan’s 1,0-litre turbopetrol Micra (the
Public by “ignoring” the budget-beaters engine makes all the difference; 44).
at the lower end of the market. Well, this Like anything in life, balance does a body
issue is rather different… and soul good. Petrolheads, your tastes are
While most of the market’s changes indulged by a feast of performance cars
occur at the pricier end of the spectrum in Insight (from page 12), a 305 km/h Audi
where lavish crossovers and rapid per- RS Q8 scaling the heady heights of exotic
formance cars reside, the automotive Tenerife’s Mount Teide (38) and an in-depth
landscape course-corrected towards the assessment of the curious new Mercedes-
end of 2019 as a slew of new and revised Benz GLE (70).
pocket-friendly entrants joined the tussle We’ll aim for more balance in 2020, dear
for buyers’ attention. In an attempt to be readers, but please don’t send us hate mail
all things to all readers, this issue contains if we delight in driving hair-raisingly won-
rst impressions of the peculiarly named derful cars and telling you all about it…
but gifted Hyundai Venue (on page 42), full
tests of the new Hyundai Atos (as good as
you’d hope, but with a caveat; 62) and Peu-
mail [email protected]
Terence_CARmag
WHAT IT TOOK TO MAKE THE FEBRUARY ISSUE
05 09 4 570 4 160 6 732 50 15 48 716
cars tested new kilometres litres of kilograms 100-0 km/h 0-100 km/h kilometres
(plus two vehicles driven utility space of vehicles braking tests sprint tests travelled for
long-termers) driven measured weighed launches
CARmag.co.za CAR FEBRUARY 2020 5
2020 credits FOUNDER: NORTON RAMSAY (1914-‘86)
travel ideas Editorial
Terence_CARmag
EDITOR Terence Steenkamp
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ON THE COVER:
The face of performance
CONTENTS FEBRUARY motoring is changing and p
the new Audi RS Q8 is
leading the charge.
2020
Mini John
Cooper Works G P
p
Mail Feature 52 Datsun Go 1,2 Lux CVT 98 Techmail
10 Over to you 28 Private collection: 54 Citroën C3 1,2 PureTech 107 Casebook
spotless cave 60 kW Feel
Insight 56 Classic drive: 1976 BMW Speed
12 Tesla Cybertruck; Jaguar 530 MLE Test 100 Feature: open season
F-Type; Mercedes-Benz 58 1 010 km/h … in 62 Hyundai Atos 1,1 Motion 104 Feature: welcome back!
GLA; Mercedes-AMG the Kalahari 66 Citroën C3 Aircross 1,2 Pure-
GLE63; Mini John Coop- 88 Private bike collection: Tech 81 kW Turbo Shine AT Buy
er Works G P; Upcoming The Motorcycle Room 70 Mercedes-Benz GLE300d 108 Consumer feature: shiny
models; Porsche Taycan 4Matic 9G-tronic new shoes
4S; Los Angeles Auto Show Drive 74 Peugeot 108 1,0 Active 110 Case study: R800 000
concept cars 34 Mercedes-Benz 78 Audi TT Coupé 45 TFSI MPVs
22 A cool thing: Naim for GLB250 8G-DCT S tronic 112 Starter classic: Honda
Bentley Mu-So speaker 38 Audi RS Q8 Quattro 82 3-month test: Toyota Prelude Coupé (1992-’99)
23 The innovators: electric Tiptronic RAV4 2,5 AWD VX 115 CAR Guide
ignition 42 Hyundai Venue 84 3-month test: Opel 151 CAR Dealer
1,0 TGDi Glide DCT Crossland X 1,6TD Enjoy 164 Buyers Guide
Column 44 Nissan Micra 1,0T 86 Long-termers 178 My favourite classic:
26 A ne line by Tekna Plus 1991 Mercedes-Benz
Wilhelm Lutjeharms 46 Lexus RX450h SE Tech 600SEL (V140)
27 Prancing destiny by 48 Renault Kwid 1,0 Climber 92 Techtalk
Maurice Hamilton 50 BMW M340i xDrive Step. 94 Mustang reimagined
SUBSCRIBE to CAR by visiting CARmag.co.za/subscribe
8 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za
m OVER TO YOU...
Please include your physical address and telephone number.
Diverse ideas and opinions are welcome but publication of
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Email: [email protected] your letter doesn’t necessarily mean we agree. Please stick to
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Mail: CAR, PO Box 180, Howard Place, 7450
WINNING
LETTER
the 33 000 km was done in and and special 17-inch wheels.
around Somerset West. Wear and The Jetta was probably one of
tear was minimal: one new bat- the best cars I have ever had
tery, two sets of front discs, about and during my career, I was
three sets of disc pads and a set privileged to have about 13
of drum shoes on the back. In the company cars.
10 years, she had three services I have owned my Mercedes-
although the oil was changed Benz for 10 years and she
more often. It didn’t miss a beat drives beautifully, with
in all those 10 years. 165 000 km on the clock.
My friend bought the car for However, trade-in value is next
R55 000 despite the trade-in to nothing (I’ll be lucky to get
value being around R25 000. He R100 000). As a pensioner, I
said it was the best buy ever and can’t afford a new car and the
g he just loves this little car. Who Merc will drive me to the grave.
The launch of the new was used to move twice and says cheapies do not have a good Thanks for a superb mag-
Hyundai Atos prompted me had more space inside once second-hand value? You still see azine to which I have been
to write to CAR. In 2006, I pur- the rear seats were folded many of these little Hyundais subscribing to since the late
chased a brand-new Hyundai at than the Jetta with its running around, some in better 1960s. All my magazines end
Atos Prime for my wife from huge 500-litre boot and split nick than others. up at the local barber shop
Hyundai Somerset West for rear seats. We drove the little By comparison, I decided to where I have been cutting my
the princely sum of R70 000. town car for 10 years. In 2016, trade in my Jetta on a second- hair for at least 25 years.
On the same day, I bought a my wife had a stroke and we hand Mercedes-Benz C200 Kom- DAVE VILJOEN
2006 Volkswagen Jetta 2,0 FSI decided to sell “Tossie” to a pressor. I originally wanted a new Via email
demo model with 4 500 km on friend whose children were generation-six Jetta but VW of-
the clock from Philwest Mo- learning to drive. All three fered me R50 000 and Rola Motors [Don’t miss our road test of the
tors. The Atos came standard have subsequently passed gave me R70 000 without even new Atos on page 58, Dave. And
with power steering, air-con, their Code 53 driving Tossie. looking at the car. Despite having thanks for sharing CAR with your
fog lights, rear roof spoiler, In the time we had her, 200 000 km on the clock, it was in barber buddies. I urge you to keep
electric front windows, rear my son drove it to Bloem- beautiful condition with leather/ doing that with your 12-month gift
wiper/washer but no radio fontein once and the rest of heated seats, electric sunroof subscription – editor]
win A 12-MONTH SUBSCRIPTION
TO CAR, WORTH R539
Reader Dave Viljoen wins a 12-month subscription FRESHENED insight
to CAR magazine, South Africa’s leading motoring title, FELINE
The updated F Type ntroduces a
suave new look and more power
for his emotive letter. for the R badged mode s
FOUR GREAT ADVANTAGES OF A CAR SUBSCRIPTION:
1. Stay current by never missing an issue of your favourite magazine. 2. A free
digital subscription is included. 3. Enjoy the luxury of home delivery. 4. You get
the magazine before it goes on sale. (A subscriber already? Extend yours by a
further 12 months, or give it to a friend or relative.)
10 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za
HORSES FOR COURSES I think CAR should do a bit of on a Friday afternoon. finance after putting down a
For years, men have stood round cloak and dagger with a dy- The agent from the Pretoria substantial deposit. I requested
the braai and compared their cars’ namometer to see whether they dealership flew in the following prime minus something on the
performance. As most have never fiddle with the figures. Saturday to hand over the car. To basis that I have an excellent
been to a test facility or a skid pan, Many thanks for half a century my horror, the local dealer had credit record. I was a little put
the majority of the conversations of entertainment. put stickers in such a position on out when I could only secure a
are hearsay and ego. Facts are ERIC SCOBLE my new car that removing them prime plus rate of 10,5%.
often of little consequence when Kenilworth risked affecting the demisting Upon questioning the lady
making comparisons. function on my rear windscreen. at the dealership, I learnt that,
As a reader of CAR for half a Even my previous Benz was if you seek finance of less than
century, I am of the opinion your FREE ADVERTISING bought cheaper in Cape Town R250 000, the banks apply a
performance measurements are Talking about dealerships force- which is about 700 km away and higher rate of interest, whereas
the best judgement of the truth. fully branding our cars [see Mail, was driven up, thanks to a lack of if you exceed this amount, they
A couple of decades ago, it October 2019], I ordered my new local competition. Fortunately for apply a more competitive rate.
was a common belief Japanese Mercedes-Benz through a dealer- them, I’ll be forced to service my In a country where the gener-
ponies seemed to be smaller than ship in Pretoria at the beginning car with them for the next five al populace is in the process of
German ponies (when referring to of this year because our local years. How I wish I had a choice. self-destruction through exces-
factory claimed output). I remem- (yes, the biggest in the province) Thanks for a great motoring sive credit, it would appear the
ber my dad’s 280SE with 120 kW dealership in the Eastern Cape magazine over the years. Keep it up. banks are guilty of speeding up
would run away from a Skyline or wanted me to trade in my previ- MZEE this process to its logical end.
Cressida with 140 kW. ous-generation C-Class for next to Via email Some of your readers may
I doubt the quoted outputs of Ko- nothing. So much for not having not be aware of this aberration.
rean and Chinese cars. Often, their competition in town. The model I DAVID CROSSLEY
outputs are equivalent to the best ordered is manufactured only in FINANCING WOES Gauteng
of BMW for similar engine sizes but Germany so it was delivered via In July this year, I purchased
studying the 0-100 km/h times, the East London harbour and brought a Honda HR-V to replace my [Have other readers had similar
small ponies are exposed. to the local dealership by road late 17-year-old CR-V. I required experiences? – editor.]
insight
By: Gareth Dean GarethD_CARmag
THE NEXT-GENERATION BAKKIE
With EV road cars, a high-speed vacuum
pod train and space travel now ticked off
his Tesla list, Elon Musk turns to the next
frontier: a battery-powered bakkie
12 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za
insight
A TRIO OF ‘TRAINS
The Cybertruck will be offered
LOAD BED LENGTH 1 981 mm with a choice of three powertrain
configurations: single-motor RWD,
dual-motor AWD and tri-motor
AWD. Tesla has been coy regarding
0-96 KM/H 2,9 sec (tri-motor), 4,5 sec (dual-motor), power outputs but the tri-motor
6,5 sec (single-motor RWD) array mirrors that of the outlandish
Tesla Model S “Plaid”, a model with
outputs in the region of 597 kW and
an astonishing 1 356 N.m.
RANGE 800 km SEATS 6
A BABY BROTHER
ON THE WAY?
Musk has fielded numerous ques-
tions regarding a smaller version
of this angular monster and is
entertaining the idea of a smaller,
possibly RWD-only derivative.
FULL METAL JACKET
The body panels on the produc-
tion-series Cybertruck will utilise
the same 3 mm stainless steel
plate that features in the company’s
SpaceX vehicle. According to Tesla,
this lends the Cybertruck ballistic
protection from firearms of up to
9 mm calibre and proved dent-
resistant during a demonstration
involving a sledgehammer that left
no marks. The reinforced windows
were another story.
A COSTLY BREAK
Some say breaking a mirror is worth
seven years’ bad luck but that’s noth-
ing compared to the costly unveiling
of Elon Musk’s Cybertruck. It survived
a sledgehammer blow to the driver’s
door; however, a test involving a
steel ball thrown at the armour glass
twice cracked the purported bullet-
proof glazing during a botched prod-
PAYLOAD 1 587 kg uct demonstration in California. The
upshot was a 6% dip in Tesla’s share
prices, wiping nearly $770 million off
AIR SUSPENSION GROUND CLEARANCE 406 mm Musk’s net worth in one day. Even so,
more than 250 000 pre-orders for the
Cybertruck were logged in the space
TOWING CAPACITY 6 350 kg of five days, so Elon shouldn’t find
himself on the breadline.
CARmag.co.za CAR FEBRUARY 2020 13
FRESHENED
FELINE
The updated F-Type introduces a
suave new look and more power
for the R-badged models
ETA: late-2020
SHAPELIER SHELL
The outgoing Jaguar F-Type could
easily lay claim to being one of the finest
looking cars on the road, so raising the
game for the 2020 update is no mean
feat. The extensive facelift includes a
smoother nose and a larger grille flanked
by swept-back headlamps incorporating
sliding LED indicators. This is crowned by
a muscular-looking new bonnet. The rear
aspect retains its strong haunches and
striking taillamp array, with the latter
being slimmed down and slightly
squared off at the bottom.
IMPROVED INFOTAINMENT
The infotainment system has proved
to be a perennial chink in the F-Type’s
armour but the updated car looks to
address this criticism with the latest
version of the firm’s TouchPro interface
– which now includes Android Auto and
Apple CarPlay as standard – along with a
configurable 12,3-inch TFT display in the
instrument binnacle.
14 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za
insight
UNDERCARRIAGE UPDATED
The R-badged F-Type employs what
Jaguar calls a “comprehensively uprated
chassis” with wider 20-inch wheels and
new adaptive dampers, springs, anti-roll
bars and stiffer rear knuckles and ball
joints. The transmission, too, has been
recalibrated for snappier shifts.
CARmag.co.za CAR FEBRUARY 2020 15
GATEWAY
TO G
The new entry point to Mercedes-Benz’s
G line-up is a sporty little number
With its predecessor having chalked Mercedes-Benz has thus far
up a million sales over its six-year divulged information regarding only
run, the second-generation GLA is two powertrains earmarked for its ETA: Q2
billed by Mercedes-Benz as a sporty baby G:
complement to its more practical
GLB stablemate (see our driving GLA200 7G-DCT
impression on page 34). Engine: 1,3-litre, 4-cyl, turbopetrol
Riding on a mildly stretched ver- Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch
sion of the MFA platform currently Power: 120 kW Torque: 250 N.m
servicing the A-Class and with a
ride jacked up to 143 mm, the new AMG GLA35 4MATIC 8G-DCT
GLA stands 100 mm taller, has a Engine: 2,0-litre, 4-cyl, turbopetrol
seating position some 140 mm Transmission: 8-speed dual-clutch
higher and a wheelbase 30 mm Power: 225 kW Torque: 400 N.m
longer than its predecessor. Boot
space has grown by 14 litres to a The all-wheel-drive GLA35 cracks
claimed 435 litres, all in a package the 0-100 km/h run in a claimed 5,1
that’s actually 15 mm shorter seconds on the way to an electroni-
(4 410 mm) than the first car. cally limited 250 km/h top speed.
16 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za
insight
POWERHAUS
Mercedes-AMG’s brutish SUV brings in an
electrified boost of performance
Squaring up to the formidable RS The result is 0-100 km/h in
Q8 and BMW’s X5 M, the Mercedes- 4,0 seconds and a 250 km/h top
AMG GLE63 and its S counterpart speed in the GLE63 and 3,8 seconds
mount a 4,0-litre twin-turbo V8 and a 280 km/h maximum speed
petrol engine augmented by the for the S.
company’s EQ Boost starter-alter- Both models feature an electron-
ETA: late-2020 nator system. In both the 420 kW/ ically locking rear differential as
750 N.m standard model and the standard, as well as electrome-
450 kW/850 N.m S, the EQ Boost chanically variable power steering
system squirts an additional 16 kW and a drivetrain-management sys-
into the fray under hard accelera- tem with sand and trail presets that
tion for short periods. raise the suspension by 55 mm.
The result is 0-100 km/h in
4,0 seconds and a 250 km/h top
speed in the 63, and 3,8 seconds
and 280 km/h for the S model
CARmag.co.za CAR FEBRUARY 2020 17
insight
TRACK
TERRIER
Mini’s two-seater John Cooper Works GP is the
firm’s fastest model to date
Boasting a raft of measures to pare down kerb weight wheels via an eight-speed automatic ‘box with inte-
and improve torsional rigidity (the back seats make grated mechanical diff-lock, the GP hits 100 km/h
way for a red steel torsion bar) and equipped with from standstill in 5,2 seconds, with a top speed of
a version of the 2,0-litre turbopetrol four-cylinder 265 km/h. Further to the cosmetic enhancements,
currently servicing the BMW M135i xDrive, the John the GP also features model-specific engine-oil and
Cooper Works GP is the most focused member of the cooling-management systems, an enhanced sports
Mini family. exhaust and suspension lowered by 10 mm over that
With 225 kW and 450 N.m channelled to the front of the standard JC
Q
18 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za
Ferrari F8 Spider Q4 Mini Cooper JCW GP Q3
UPCOMING MODELS GWM P Series Q3/Q4 Mini Cooper SE 2020
Honda Ballade 2020 Nissan Juke 2020
onda Civic Type R facelift 2020 Nissan Kicks 2020
onda CR-V facelift 2020 Opel Astra facelift 2020
onda WR-V 2020 Opel Corsa Q4
yundai Creta Q4 Peugeot 2008 Q2/Q3
yundai Grand i10 Q2 Peugeot 208 Q4
aguar F-Type facelift late-2020 Peugeot 3008 facelift Q4
eep Compass additional derivatives Q3/Q4 Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS 2020
Kia Sorento Q2 Porsche 911 GT3 2020
Alfa Romeo Giulia facelift Q3/Q4
Land Rover Defender 110 Q2/Q3 Porsche 911 GTS 2020
Alfa Romeo Stelvio facelift Q3/Q4
Land Rover Defender 90 Q3/Q4 Porsche 911 Turbo 2020
Aston Martin DBX 2020
Lexus IS facelift Q4 Porsche Panamera facelift 2020
Aston Martin Valhalla 2020
Lexus LC500 Convertible 2020 Porsche Taycan Q3
Aston Martin Vantage Roadster 2020
Mahindra KUV100 Limited Edition 2020 Renault Alaskan 2020
Audi E-tron Q3/Q4
Mahindra Pik Up automatic 4x2/4x4 Renault Captur Q3
Audi RS Q3 Q3/Q4 single and double cabs 2020 Renault Clio Q2
Audi RS6 Avant Q3/Q4 Mahindra Scorpio 2020 Renault Duster Techroad limited edition Q4
Audi RS7 Sportback Q3/Q4 Mahindra Thar 2020 Renault Mégane Trophy Q4
Audi RS Q8 Q3 Maserati Levante Trofeo 2020 Renault Oroch 2020
Audi S8 Q3/Q4 McLaren GT 2020 Rolls-Royce Cullinan Black Badge 2020
Audi TT RS facelift Q2 McLaren P26 2020 Rolls-Royce Ghost Zenith 2020
BMW M2 CS Q2 McLaren Sport Series 2020 Subaru Forester 2020
BMW X5 M Competition Q2 McLaren Super Series LT 2020 Subaru XV facelift Q3
BMW X6 M Competition Q2 Mercedes-Benz GLA Q2 Volkswagen Golf 8 Q4
Changan Sedan 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB Q2 Volkswagen Kombi and Caravelle Q2
Datsun Cross 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS Q1 Volkswagen T-Cross 70 kW and 1,5 TSI Q2
Ferrari 812 GTS Q4 Mercedes-Maybach GLS 2020 Volkswagen T-Roc Q3
ON-SWITCH
ETA: possibly Q3
Porsche has unveiled the entry-point
model of its Taycan performance EV
range. The 4S may be the baby of the
family but it still packs some serious
performance; the base model serves
up 390 kW from its 79,2 kWh battery
pack and the 93,4 kWh pack Plus
model up to 420 kW. That extra power
doesn’t equate to extra pace, though;
both do the 0-100 km/h sprint in
4,0 seconds and top out at 250 km/h.
Rather, it’s the operating range that’s
increased from the standard model’s
407 km to 463 km in the Plus.
CARmag.co.za CAR FEBRUARY 2020 19
1 LAMBORGHINI V12 2 VOLKSWAGEN ATLAS 3 HYUNDAI RM19
VISION GRAN TURISMO
SPORT R
CONCEPT
Based on the Sián, including its 602 kW electri- Unlike the digital Lamborghini, the mean-look- Landing further towards reality, the RM19
fied V12 engine, the Vision is conceived as a rad- ing Atlas Sport R is a pre-production glimpse of concept is a track-going version of the Veloster
ical racecar with a jet fighter-esque single-seat Volkswagen’s entrant for this year’s Baja 1000 powered by a mid-mounted, TCR racecar-
cockpit. It may be designed to FIA standards off-road race in California. Power will come sourced 2,0-litre turbopetrol engine sending
but it’s a purely digital flight of fancy that’s due from a highly modified version of the firm’s 290 kW to the rear wheels. Hyundai is currently
for release on Sony’s PlayStation 4 game Gran 2,0-litre turbopetrol producing between mulling a production, albeit privateer-run,
Turismo Sport in the fi rst quarter of this year. 358 and 447 kW. version of the car.
20 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za
insight
SPACE & (LAP) TIME
From deserts to the virtual racetrack, there’s an LA Auto Show concept for every occasion
4 VOLKSWAGEN ID. 5 HYUNDAI 6 KIA
VISION T
SPACE VIZZION
FUTURON
The seventh member of VW’s ID. family of electric Like the Vizzion, this Hyundai concept looks Serving as a similarly swoopy preview of its
cars, the Space Vision is envisaged as a cross to meld two automotive genres (SUV and future AWD electric SUV line-up, the Futuron
between a rugged SUV and a grand tourer. Under- urban runabout) in a bold take on the Sensuous sports the latest and most eye-catching
pinned by the firm’s MEB electrified platform, the Sportiness design language its future models evolution of its signature tiger-nose grille;
production model could feature either a 205 kW will eventually adopt. The design also incorpo- an LED-studded shroud that imitates a starry
rear-mounted engine or add a front EV drivetrain rates an adaptive-geometry grille to improve night sky.
to give it a 265 kW all-wheel-drive setup. frontal aerodynamics.
CARmag.co.za CAR FEBRUARY 2020 21
A COOL THING
Experience the superior sound quality of your Bentley By: Jarryd Neves
audio system in the comfort of your home JarrydN_CARmag
Naim for Bentley Mu-So speaker
Price: £1 069 (±R20 000)
As classy and luxurious as the British automaker’s vehicles, the
Naim for Bentley Mu-So speaker combines minimalist, modern
design with clean and crisp sound. With six custom-designed
speaker drivers and 450 watts, listening to your favourite tunes at
home will be every bit as indulgent as from behind the wheel of
your Mulsanne.
Android and iOS compatible.
Up to five units can be
synced, allowing them to play
simultaneously in different rooms.
Knurled rotary controls.
Premium aluminium finish
inspired by Naim for Bentley
interior grilles.
The Mu-So combines
minimalist, modern design
with clean and crisp sound
22 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za
insight
THE The cars we drive today were
INNOVATORS influenced by these pioneers
By: Marius Boonzaier
Marius_CARmag
First production vehicle with Cadillac Model 30 1912
an electric ignition system Touring Edition
clutch and fewer cogs between
the starter and crankshaft.
Cadillac improved on Ketter-
ing’s (who then joined General
Motors) design and, in 1912,
revealed the Model 30 Touring
Edition, advertising it as “the car
with no crank”.
To start the Model 30, drivers
had to press a cylindrical pedal
in the oorboard to engage the
self-starter. Upon ignition, they
had to release the pedal and
press the clutch. A gear of the
electric motor would interlock
with the ywheel and a con-
nection was made between the
electronic starter and oil-pump.
According to the car’s original
brochure, this setup did “exactly
what otherwise would be done
by hand” but more gradually.
Within the following decade,
ight foot rmly on the anism that required patience South of Cadillac’s headquar- most production cars were
brake, initiate igni- and brawn to operate, and swift ters in Detroit, engineer Charles equipped with this technology.
R tion and voilà, subtle re exes to prevent serious or Kettering and his colleagues at The US automaker was award-
vibrations lter through the even fatal injury in the event of the Ohio-based Delco electrical ed the prestigious Dewar Trophy
cabin. Starting an engine is an a back re. Following the death plant completed their latest for innovating the self-starter
effortless task, warranting just a of his friend, Cadillac founder invention: an electric ignition and electric headlamps. The
turn of a key or push of a button. Henry Leland reportedly decided system. This setup comprised Model 30’s 4,7-litre inline-four
Easy. However, at the start of the to do away with this crank. a compact yet powerful starter engine was available with various
20th century, this was done by Fortunately, Leland didn’t have to motor-generator unit located body styles, including phaeton
a hand-operated crank, a mech- search far for a replacement. next to the engine, a freewheel and torpedo guise.
1916 1985 2001 2004
THEY ALSO PAVED THE WAY
CADILLAC TYPE 53 VW POLO FORMEL E RENAULT LAGUNA CHEVROLET MALIBU
GM’s luxury marque This Europe-only VW The second-generation First offered as an
continued to innovate Polo Mark 2 gulped just Laguna pioneered keyless aftermarket fitment,
with the Type 53. This 4,1 L/100 km thanks to ignition. With its now- remote starting made its
Cadillac was the first its environmentally familiar card-like key fob, mainstream debut on the
production car to make friendly tech, which the Renault sedan was Malibu. This tech allowed
use of a key. included the first-ever started with the push of owners to fire up their car
stop/start system. a button. via the k ey fob.
CARmag.co.za CAR FEBRUARY 2020 23
LUCK HAS NOTHING
TO DO WITH IT.
As luck may have it, the new year brings revitalised energy, ambition and a ‘go-getter’
mentality. But luck doesn’t cover everything, especially not your car. Make the wise
choice, make the switch to iWYZE car insurance…and when it comes to your ambition,
we say, go get ‘em tiger.
SMS COVER TO 43263.
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Standard SMS rates and T’s & C’s apply. Premium is risk profile dependent.
iWYZE claims no credit for any vehicle images.
column
LOCAL NINE-HOUR
INSTAGRAM INTERACTIONS
A FINE LINE 16 260 2 107 1 613
PORSCHE AUDI BMW
Motor companies must get behind international SOUTH AFRICA SOUTH AFRICA SOUTH AFRICA
motorsport in South Africa At our print deadline. Audi SA's figure excludes Instagram stories.
O n the weekend of 22 never been seen or raced in teams. Carmakers often claim their heritage
and products are the result of countless rac-
and
November
South Africa; for instance, the
23
Kyalami
2019,
the
Nine-hour endurance race Nine-hour was the rst time a ing victories over the decades; that their en-
current-generation NSX had
gineers apply their racing knowledge to the
returned to South Africa. It By: Wilhelm Lutjeharms touched local tarmac. continuous development of their road cars.
formed part of the Interconti- WilhelmL_CARmag Porsche South Africa made The truth is, that’s rarely the case … except
nental GT Challenge, a motor- a huge fuss about the event. with these three brands, it’s true.
sport series held in ve coun- Almost born in the back Its CEO, Toby Venter, is the Why, then, is there little interest on the
tries during 2019. All of these of a Volkswagen Kombi, owner of Kyalami Grand Prix part of the manufacturers to share the news
races are endurance events Wilhelm has been Circuit and he and his team with their followers when these machines
ranging from the Liqui-Moly fascinated by cars all his worked round the clock in are raced locally? The beauty of social media
life. He dreams of one
Bathurst 12-hour in February preparation. Let’s not forget is you know most of the people who follow
day owning a Lotus Exige
to the Total 24 Hours of Spa but for now he’s content that Kyalami went on auction you are interested in the content you post.
and the Suzuka 10 Hours in in 2014 and that national-level There’s no doubt they would like to know
with the key card to a
Japan. Such occasions and Renault Clio RS R27. motorsport in South Africa more about these special cars and the driv-
others like the 24 Hours of Le might have disappeared had ers who pilot them. Social media is also one
Mans vividly illustrate what Venter not bought and up- of the easiest, most cost-effective and vis-
automotive engineers, alongside the driv- graded the facility. There is also the small ually engaging ways of sharing and promot-
ers and teams, are really capable of achiev- matter of the impact an event such as the ing content. In this speci c case, content of
ing. They also highlight which companies Nine-hour and others has on the local com- cars that will appeal to young and old.
develop the best performance machines, munity in terms of job creation and the - Sure, there might be internal politics/
both in terms of prowess and, crucially, re- nancial gain to a wide range of suppliers. policies involved. But, honestly, who cares?;
liability (the latter being especially applica- It’s therefore no surprise some manu- these are factory cars, old and new, racing
ble during an endurance race). facturers took the event seriously. Several in our backyard. In most cases, the track is
In the Intercontinental GT Challenge, the brands featured posts and videos on social mere kilometres from most local OEM head-
cars are GT3 racers. These are road-based media about these winged cars and their quarters. It is the same track at which these
racing cars such as the Honda NSX, BMW teams. BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Honda, Bent- carmakers host track days or other local
M6, Porsche GT3, Ferrari 488, Mercedes- ley, Porsche and Audi, for example, ran won- events for their current or potential clients.
AMG GT, Bentley Continental GT, Audi R8, derful social media campaigns on the week- It leaves a sour taste, illustrating as it does
Lamborghini Huracán, Nissan GT-R Nismo end, clearly proud of their teams and drivers the lack of interest in local motorsport. Man-
and Aston Martin Vantage AMR. There are (several being South African). For many of ufacturers often complain racing is dead in
many reasons I nd this form of racing more the manufacturers, this is the pinnacle of our country but when a world-class event is
appealing than Formula One. These vehicles their global motorsport efforts as they don’t staged at the best circuit in the country, they
are similar to those you can buy from deal- participate in F1. Some teams also offered turn their backs. I honestly wonder why.
erships, and factory and non-factory teams us interviews with drivers. This was the inaugural event of the Nine-
feed information back to their respective However, I discovered certain brands, in- hour race and the contract will run for sev-
manufacturers. Enthusiasts can relate to cluding Ferrari, Nissan and Aston Martin, eral years. Hopefully, these brands will sit
them. In their speci cation, most of these did very little – or nothing at all – to promote up and take notice, and actually attend and
international-level GT3 racing cars have this event and drum up support for their promote the 2020 race.
26 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za
column
SCUDERIA FERRARI IN F1
PRANCING RACES 993
237
WINS
DESTINY 2 1 3 PODIUMS 765
1-2 FINISHES 83
CONSTRUCTORS’ TITLES 16
Rounding off his career in one of the most illustrious Scuderia in
motor racing could prove enticing for the 2019 F1 world champion DRIVERS’ TITLES 15
s the chequered ag rst world champion, Mike even the most innate talent. What a way to
fell in Abu Dhabi, the Hawthorn, did it in a Ferra- bow out. Much will depend, however, on
A effect of the 21-race ri in 1958. More recently – what he achieves in between.
season hit home. Adrenaline well, in 1989 and ‘90 – Nigel If Hamilton wins a seventh champion-
levels tumbled and feelings By: Maurice Hamilton Mansell had a typically dra- ship and equals Michael Schumacher’s re-
of exhaustion rose. Journal- MauriceHamilton matic period dressed in red. cord this year, will he want to walk away
ists were as keen as everyone Between these two, no fewer from a proven working relationship with
else to knock it into neutral, Maurice Hamilton is than eight drivers from the Mercedes and jeopardise the rare chance
switch off the laptop and an internationally UK signed on the dotted line of establishing an extraordinary eight in
cruise home. The gossip and acclaimed Formula at Maranello (naming them* 2021? The opportunity to set a new bench-
opinion could be put on hold One reporter and is a good question for your mark if he switched to Ferrari would be
author. He’s been a
for a few days. Or could it? next pub quiz). There can weakened by the time taken to bed in with
CAR contributor since
No sooner had members of 1987 and provides be no debate that Hamilton a new team, particularly one as politically
the media landed at various racing for Scuderia Ferrari complex and idiosyncratic as this one.
Formula One insight
destinations in Europe when to a number of would be the tastiest story Hamilton has said in the past records
cellphones were buzzing. Ed- international radio of them all. don’t mean that much; he embraces them
itors back at base wanted to and TV stations. How likely is it? Hamilton as and when they come but he does not set
know what to make of Lewis is certainly entertaining the out with statistical excellence as his main
Hamilton going to Ferrari. Ru- thought. Stories in the in u- motivation. Maybe so. To be in touching
mours about the colourful world champion ential Italian newspaper La Gazzetta dello distance of such a remarkable milestone
are always newsworthy; link him with mo- Sport say he has already chatted with Fer- must surely blur his priorities.
torsport’s most iconic team and such spec- rari president, John Elkann. And why not? On the other hand, if he fails to secure
ulation shoots to the top of any agenda. Hamilton will be contractually free and a seventh in 2020, he has nothing to lose;
Sports editors, by de nition, are Jacks- driving for the Prancing Horse does have an in fact, a huge amount to gain nancially
of-all-trades but masters of only a few. For- allure, regardless of Ferrari’s apparent lack by making the switch after eight seasons
mula One and its associated complexity is of competitiveness. You could say helping with Mercedes. It could be argued Hamil-
de nitely not one of them. I was probably turn the team around to become a suc- ton would be ill-advised to move out of his
not alone in being asked if Mercedes was cessful part of such a rich heritage would comfort zone and step into the madness
horri ed by its golden boy upping sticks be a major attraction. Michael Schumach- of Ferrari. But that’s what the pundits said
and moving to Maranello overnight. It er (with the assistance of Ross Brawn, Jean in 2012 when he announced his departure
was necessary to explain that, if Hamilton Todt and South Africa’s Rory Byrne) did it. from McLaren – never lower than third in
moved at all, it would be after his contract Ayrton Senna was known to wish to drive the championship during the previous sev-
had expired at the end of 2020. That re- for Ferrari before he retired; a dream cut en years – to move to a team that was strug-
duced the anticipation of a juicy story from desperately short by the Brazilian’s fatal gling to nd its feet. Sixty-three wins later,
fever pitch to intense excitement. accident at Imola on 1 May 1994. we know the answer to that.
It also led to the broader question of how Hamilton will turn 36 in January 2021. It
unique it would be to have a British driv- will mark the start of his 15th season in F1 *Peter Collins, Cliff Allison, Tony Brooks, Mike
er working with the Italians. The answer and, arguably, the prime of his competitive Parkes, John Surtees, Jonathan Williams, Derek
is: not as rare as you would think. Britain’s years before age and fatigue begin to erode Bell and Eddie Irvine.
CARmag.co.za CAR FEBRUARY 2020 27
feature
01
SPOTLESS E caught up with Mike early one morn-
ing before he headed to work in his
CAVE W 2016 Alfa Romeo 4C. His garage is spot-
less and all the cars are perfectly reverse parked. It’s
a welcome sight.
Early in our conversation, Mike sums up his ap-
Mike Salomon built a man cave and started filling proach to car collecting: “I buy only cars I’m absolutely
it with cars. The sportscar enthusiast kindly in love with. It all started as a teenager when I found
my rst car, a Volkswagen Golf. I did a lot of things to
opened the doors to his collection it; some I am proud of, others not so much.
“While studying nance and accounting, I managed
By: Wilhelm Lutjeharms WilhelmL_CARmag Photos: Peet Mocke Petridish_Mooks
to convince my dad to do a straight swap of my Golf for
28 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za
feature
03 04
02
06 07
05
08
01 Quite a collection of almost a 1968 911 S Targa. Unlike today, nobody wanted these you drive the modern carb and injection models. I adore
only sportscars. 02-04 A favourite, old cars. I decided I wanted to go racing, so I traded in this car and I even have the original delivery slip. It was
the 1970 Porsche 911 2,2 E with
its simplistic cabin and air-cooled the Targa for a 911 SC and converted it to a racecar. handed over to a buyer in Düsseldorf in Germany on 7
engine. 05-07 The perfect road trip “Then, I got a 1973 Carrera RS replica. At varsity I started July 1981.” Three years ago, Mike took a 1 600 km road
car, a 1981 Ferrari 308 GTSi with its reading about cars and I bought a book, Porsche 911 Story trip in the Ferrari for the summer holiday. He drove it
open-gate gearlever and V8 engine.
08 This man cave is squeaky clean. by Paul Frère. After reading it, I knew what I wanted and from Johannesburg to Cape Town, roof off, in 37 °C heat...
that included 911s.” A 1995 Lamborghini Diablo VT is the true supercar
Of his current 11 cars, Mike has owned
a 1981 Ferrari 308 GTSi the longest. “This is
the injection model, the least desirable 308 Mike did a 1 600 km road trip in
with the lowest power. In my opinion, there
is not that much difference in power when the Ferrari in 37 ˚C heat
CARmag.co.za CAR FEBRUARY 2020 29
01
04
02 03
05 06 07
“They all have to go on the track offer, not the image they portray. 01 The view from the entertainment
There are no fewer than three Porsches area. 02 & 03 Various memorabilia
is slowly making their way into the
at some time” in the collection: a 1981 930 Turbo, a 2000 cave. 04 Mike had the wheels of his
911 GT3 Comfort and a 1970 911 2.2 E. 4C custom painted. 05 Cabin of the
2000 Porsche 911 GT3 Comfort. 06
“I will never sell any of them but my fa-
& 07 Air-cooled engine and flared
in this collection. It’s tted with a Tubi exhaust and the vourite is the 911 E. Mainly because it is such a genuine wheelarches of a 1981 Porsche 930
front driving shafts are no longer in place, so it is simi- sportscar offering the most undiluted, pure driving ex- Turbo.
lar to an SV’s setup. perience. You couldn’t live with it every day – it can’t be
“I don’t drive cars for other people. I’m a true your only car – but to me it is the perfect driver’s car and
enthusiast and don’t care what people think. Some beautifully designed with clean, simple lines.”
people have preconceptions when they see you in Mike drives his cars regularly but that doesn’t mean
certain types of cars.” This doesn’t bother Mike at he is not pedantic about maintenance. “They all have to
all, as he drives the cars for the experience they go on the track at some time; it is one of my favourite
30 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za
feature
02
01
01 The most dramatic car in this collection,
03
a 1995 Lamborghini Diablo VT. 02 A true
sportscar bargain, a 2007 Aston Martin V8
Vantage. 03 These cars are always perfectly
parked. 04 Also called the “clown shoe”,
Mike’s 2000 BMW Z3 M Coupé.
04
The collector
places to properly experience these cars. I’m fanatical
about warming up a vehicle before driving it hard. I Accountant Mike Salomon’s day job
think this practice along with regular driving, combined includes running a successful clothing
with preventative maintenance, is what keeps these business. He often scours the classi-
things on the road.” fieds and discusses future purchases
with friends. He has plans to add
He was involved in the design of his man cave, a pro-
memorabilia to the cave, as well as
ject that was nished in early 2018. On one wall leading installing lifts for possible additions to
up the stairs, visitors have signed their names, while the collection.
memorabilia and photos depict various anecdotes of
motoring-related trips over the years. Mike is always Do you own an interesting car collection,
keen to invite friends over after hours to talk cars and or know someone who does and would
acknowledges he has been fortunate to never have had like it featured in CAR? Email us at
to sell a single car since 2006. [email protected]
CARmag.co.za CAR FEBRUARY 2020 31
MAHINDRA PIK UP S11 AUTOMATIC
AND S11 AUTOMATIC
KAROO LAND IN SOUTH AFRICA!
Mahindra has upped the game AN AUTOMATIC CHOICE: TESTED slows the vehicle to crawl speeds on steep declines
with the introduction of a FOR AFRICAN CONDITIONS in technical off-road driving.
The S11 Automatic has made its debut in South
brand-new six-speed automatic The all-new S11 Pik Up is equipped with a brand- Africa before being introduced to any other country
new six-speed automatic gearbox that was tested
gearbox on its very popular extensively during 2019 in South Africa. and it benefits from many months and thousands
double-cab Pik Up range. The gearbox is matched with the very popular of arduous testing kilometres. This was done at the
The new Pik Up Automatic 2,2-litre mHawk turbodiesel engine, which delivers renowned Gerotek testing facility and in several
Double Cab joins the line-up in a 103 kW at 3 750 r/min. More importantly, the gearbox parts of South Africa to ensure the engine and
new S11 specification level, which has been developed to offer the best possible power gearbox combination offers the best possible service
delivery throughout the engine range, thus making
and durability that matches South Africa’s driving
builds on the high specification optimal use of the engine’s 320 N.m of torque, which and environmental conditions.
level of the S10 with additional peaks from 1 500 to 2 800 r/min.
luxuries and cosmetic upgrades. All S11 Automatic models will offer a sequential S11 AUTOMATIC: A FULL HOUSE
The model will also be available self-shifting mode allowing the driver to manually There is no mistaking the new S11 Automatic Pik Up
in S11 Karoo guise, which override and shift the gearbox, while all 4x4 models with any other Pik Up model in the range.
The new model features a standout grille
becomes the range-topping will offer the familiar shift-on-the-fly selection design with squared-off chromed inserts that
between two- and four-wheel-drive modes.
model with even more equipment The 4x4 models of the S11 Automatic are also are reminiscent of the Mahindra Scorpio in S11
than the luxury S11 variant. equipped with a hill-descent-control system, which specification. The all-new grille is flanked by
32 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za
product feature
COMPILED BY CAR’S EDITORIAL TEAM AND
SPONSORED BY MAHINDRA SOUTH AFRICA
redesigned headlamps and rounded off by new S10 models. This includes two airbags, traction To distinguish this model, the all-new S11 Karoo
foglamps with stylish chrome bezels. control, electric windows with automatic front Automatic will feature a unique decal design on the
In addition to the new front, the S11 Automatic windows and automatic locking doors. sides and thick nudge and styling bars. This model
Pik Up has chrome-finished side mirrors with also has a custom-designed roller deck system for
integrated indicators, which help to make this model THE KING OF PIK UP MODELS: S11 KAROO the load box as standard, while all S11 Karoo models
stand out as the range-topping Pik Up. At the rear, Mahindra first launched the Karoo Special Edition will have a rubberised load bay.
an integrated reverse camera and S11 Automatic late in 2018 to celebrate the successful opening of Rounding off the new design are special off-road-
badging rounds off the upgraded design. its local assembly facility in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. ready alloy wheels.
Since its launch, the Karoo has proven to be
LUXURY ABOUNDS extremely popular – in both S6 and S10 specification The all-new S11 Automatic and S11 Automatic Karoo
To further boost the premium appeal of the all-new levels – and it has prompted Mahindra to introduce are available nationwide. For more information,
S11 Automatic Pik Up, Mahindra has added a host of a special S11 Karoo model with a refreshed design please visit www.mahindra.co.za or pop in at your
luxury features as standard on all models. theme and even more standard equipment. nearest Mahindra dealership.
Taking centre stage is a brand-new seven-inch
touchscreen infotainment system with a capacitive
interface. This system offers Bluetooth connectivity,
a multitude of entertainment and vehicle information
screens and full turn-by-turn navigation as standard.
The infotainment screen also displays the image of
the in-built reverse camera in full colour.
All S11 models will further offer an automatic
climate control system in place of the standard
manual air conditioning system, and all models have
an adjustable multi-function steering wheel that
controls both the infotainment, phone and cruise
control systems.
As the most luxurious model in the range, the S11
has all the luxury and safety features of the manual
CARmag.co.za CAR FEBRUARY 2020 33
34 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za
drive
01
MERCEDES-BENZ GLB250 8G-DCT ETA: Q2 WHERE WE
DROVE IT
Jabu of all trades
Mercedes-Benz’s first compact seven-seater relies
on a mixture of style and versatility to carve out Marbella,
Spain
a distinctive niche in a burgeoning market
By: Gareth Dean GarethD_CARmag
*Claimed figures
Price: TBA Powertrain: 2,0-litre, 4-cyl, turbopetrol Transmission: 8-speed dual-clutch Power: 165 kW @ 5 500-6 100 r/min Torque: 350 N.m @ 1 800-
4 000 r/min 0-100 km/h: 6,9 seconds* Top speed: 236 km/h* Fuel consumption: 7,4 L/100 km* Rivals: Audi Q3; BMW X1; Volvo XC40
+ chunky styling; balanced road manners; spacious interior some cheap cabin trim; optional third-row seats impractically small
t’s been some time coming as a versatile combination of SUV, smooth and multifaceted oblong A-Class’s MFA2 modular platform,
but Mercedes-Benz has nally station wagon and entertaining headlamps in place of circular the GLB’s placement technically
I plugged the long-standing gap road-goer, the GLB is faced with a units, and you’ll get an idea of sees it rubbing shoulders with
between its GLA and GLC offerings tall order of broad provisos straight what the GLB is all about. This the similarly stylish Q3 and X1
with a funky-looking riposte to the out of the blocks. So, are we look- chunky styling, along with a but, owing to a wheelbase that’s
likes of BMW’s sporty X1 and the ing at a veritable Swiss army knife, raised ride height and short stretched by 100 mm, its overall
Audi Q3. The GLB may be straddled or a awed Jack of all trades? overhangs, gives it just the right dimensions are comparable to
by two popular and well-regarded The GLB’s styling is a cross-pol- amount of purposefulness to lift it those of rivals such as the X3 and
models in the Benz range (with lination between the curvaceous out of the soft, city-slicker bracket its bigger brother, the GLC, and
a new GLA on its way) but that GLA and the angular ruggedness and will no doubt curry favour
doesn’t mean the company’s ex- of the G-Class. Imagine the latter with our SUV-obsessed market.
01 With hints of G-Class and GLA, the GLB
pectations are modest. Introduced with the hard corners sanded Underpinned by a version of the treads the line between boxy and boutique.
CARmag.co.za CAR FEBRUARY 2020 35
drive
that’s where the station wagon 1 850 litres (1 680 in the seven-
part of the GLB’s mission state- seater) of utility space on offer.
ment comes into play. Like its underpinnings, the GLB’s
That compact, cuboid shell cabin architecture and fixtures
plays host to a surprisingly lean heavily on the A- and B-Class,
spacious interior with plenty with the same turbine-styled
of shoulderroom all-round. The eyeball air vents and the sizea-
sensation of space is furthered by ble MBUX infotainment system
a generous glasshouse and a Car- screen housing the majority of
men Miranda-pleasing 1 069 mm the ancillary controls. The seating
of front-seat headroom. Unlike position is commanding for a car
01
most of its rivals, the GLB’s cabin of its stature and the facia is sporty
arrangement has a useful amount and looks upmarket, but like its
of modularity. In both the stand- donors, there is the odd bit of thin, 02 03
ard five- and optional seven-seat- cheap-feeling plastic here and
er layouts, the seats can be folded there, and one of the more sportily
to form a flat load floor, while sprung GLB35 units we also drove
the second-row bench features had already developed a noticea-
140 mm of slide adjustment ble bit of trim buzz at motorway
that frees up an S-Class-rivalling speeds. That aside, the GLB’s cabin
967 mm of kneeroom. The does an impressive job of isolating
seven-seat arrangement doesn’t its occupants from road noise with multilink setup.The results on the 01 GLB’s handling is well balanced. 02
& 03 Cuboid elements in both the head-
come with a corresponding in- just a slight bit of wind flutter at variable surfaces of our launch
and taillamps. 04 Although it sits on a
crease in wheelbase length, so the the A-pillars at motorway speeds. route through Andalusia were stretched A-Class platform, the GLB’s two-
third row is pretty much the pre- The GLB’s take on the MFA impressive.The GLB rode fluidly box frame hides a practical interior.
serve of kids and pets, even with modular platform retains a over corrugated roads and resisted
the second bench slid up to its MacPherson strut front suspen- the firmness often affecting SUV/ it’s in no way disconcerting.The
buffers. That said, the GLB’s high sion but it dispenses with the crossovers of this ilk.This forgiving steering is lightly geared with just
roofline and bluff sides translate opinion-splitting torsion beam suspension array translates to enough feel to move it out of the
into an impressively commodious rear module found in lower-rung a noticeable degree of body roll numb/uncommunicative bracket
load bay, with a claimed 570 to A-Class models in favour of a when pressed into corners but but it won’t engage the driver in
04
36 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za
drive
05
05 A-Class cues evident in the cabin’s architecture and switchgear, with this example show-
ing off orange-tinted trim panels forming part of the Edition 1 package. 06 There’s masses
of utility space on offer but the third-row seats are more suitable for children. 07 Purposeful
stance and 200 mm ground clearance allow the GLB to tread off the beaten track.
the same way as its Bavarian ri- clutch transmission. Developing
vals. It is, however, a far better-bal- 165 kW from 5 500 r/min and
anced and comfier offering with 350 N.m over a 1 800-4 000 r/min
a fire-and-forget effortlessness in swathe of the rev range, it feels
the way it conducts itself in a wide flexible and pleasingly smooth.
variety of driving scenarios. The ‘box is a similarly slick per-
With its filed-down G-Wagen former that, despite an occasional
looks, there is a degree of off-road tendency to stretch for a higher
expectation levelled at the GLB (fuel-saving) gear as soon as it can,
06
but it won’t be met by this GLB250 doesn’t hobble the engine when
model, which is driven solely the accelerator is mashed and
07 through the front wheels. That swaps cogs without any judder.
task is assigned to the GLB220d By and large, the GLB meets the
4Matic, with its 400 N.m of low- varied provisos Mercedes-Benz
end twist and a longitudinal has set it and manages to look
torque-apportioning AWD system stylish and drive fluidly as it does
capable of locking drive 50:50 fore so. Given its ability to plug that
and aft. Thus equipped, the GLB is long-standing gap in Benz’s SUV
more capable off-road than most line-up, the GLB will no doubt be
of its rivals but, with 200 mm of met with a great deal of interest
ground clearance, you have to when it arrives here. Mercedes-
be realistic as to just what it can Benz SA will announce pricing
safely negotiate without endan- closer to its late-second quarter
gering its undercarriage. launch but it will be interesting
This refined demeanor is fur- to see if its deceptively generous
thered by the 2,0-litre turbopetrol packaging will, in some cases,
driving the GLB250’s front wheels present some overlap between it
through a new eight-speed dual- and the GLC.
CARmag.co.za CAR FEBRUARY 2020 37
drive
AUDI RS Q8 QUATTRO TIPTRONIC ETA: Q3 WHERE WE
Laws of physics? DROVE IT
Who cares... Tenerife, Spain
It laps the Nürburgring quicker than a Ferrari
yet has space for all your kids
By: Gautam Sharma
*Claimed figures
Price: TBA Engine: 4,0-litre, V8, twinturbo-petrol Transmission: 8-speed automatic Power: 441 kW @ 6 000-6 250 r/min Torque: 800 N.m @ 2 200-4 500 r/min
0-100 km/h: 3,8 seconds* Top speed: 305 km/h* Fuel cons: 12,1 L/100 km* CO : 277 g/km Rivals: BMW X6 M; Mercedes-AMG GLE63 S Coupé
2
+ incredible power; grip it’s still an inherently compromised performance SUV
f you’re old enough – or up crude workhorses by design. So, perilous 20,8 km Nürburgring than 1,6 metres tall could set
to speed on your automotive the notion of a high-sided SUV Nordschleife – the ultimate acid such a blistering benchmark but
I history – you’ll remember the that scorches from 0-100 km/h test for any performance vehicle – that’s what’s achievable when a
time when SUVs were slow, lum- in 3,8 seconds and is capable of which means the Audi is not only steroidal powertrain is married to
bering behemoths good at lugging hitting 305 km/h flat out – as is the fastest SUV in the world, but a well-sorted chassis, stuffed with
loads and taming rugged terrain, the case with Audi’s bonkers RS also more rapid than yesteryear every bit of electronic go-faster
but not much else. There was Q8 – might seem patently absurd supercars such as a 2007 Lam- trickery that exists today.
nothing vaguely sporting about to someone who’s time-travelled borghini Gallardo Superleggera, At the RS Q8’s heart lies the
the 1940s Willys Jeep and Land to the present from the 1950s, or 2010 Mercedes SLS AMG or 2007 same 4,0-litre twin-turbo V8 that
Rover Series 1, which evolved even as recently as the 1990s. Ferrari 599 GTB. It’s staggering to propels the RS7 and RS6 Avant,
into the Defender, nor was there Consider this: the RS Q8 recently think a vehicle that weighs more thumping out 441 kW and a
meant to be. They were tough, set a lap time of 07:42,0 at the than 2,3 tonnes and stands more towering 800 N.m of torque. These
38 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za
01
02 03
01 Cabin accents are subtle but perceived quality is first-rate. 02 RS Q8 features an
04
Alcantara-trimmed steering wheel (flat-bottomed, of course). 03 Space aft is surprisingly
generous despite the sloping roofline. 04 The 4,0-litre turbopetrol provides incredible
performance but Euro regulations mean its sound output is throttled.
outputs are channelled to the chanical active roll stabilisation
tarmac via a seamless eight-speed to keep the car flat under hard
automatic and Quattro all-wheel cornering and a torque-vectoring
drive that cleverly apportions rear differential to make the most
torque to the wheels with the of all that turbocharged V8 grunt.
most grip. The car rides on air sus- In addition, there’s a four-wheel-
pension that allows for 90 mm of steer system allowing for a
adjustability between its highest tighter turning radius at low
and lowest settings, plus there’s speeds while boosting stability
adaptive dampers, electrome- at pace.
CARmag.co.za CAR FEBRUARY 2020 39
drive
The RS Q8, as you may be aware,
shares most of its core hardware
with the Lamborghini Urus but
there are subtle differences in 01
tuning and calibration, and the
Audi scores a 48 V mild-hybrid
system that recuperates energy
under braking and shuts down the
twin-turbo V8 if you take your foot
off the throttle at speeds between
55 and 160 km/h.The engine
also switches off when station-
ary at traffic lights but it fires up
automatically as soon as the front
02 03 04
camera detects the car ahead
40 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za
05 06
07 08
01 Rear exhaust outlets rival drainpipes in the RS Q8 in the metal are how RS mode switch that’s integrated on snaking roads such as the
size. 02 You’ll be in no doubt what you’re understated it looks compared into the steering wheel spoke. The ones we’re on today, and you can
driving. 03 Optional carbon-fibre accents
abound. 04 With the sliding rear seat with the overtly aggressive Urus. apparent docility of the Audi is also make mid-bend directional
stowed, capacity increases to 1 755 litres. Apart from revised front and rear quickly dispelled once we hit the adjustments without unsettling
05 RS identified via Manhattan Grey trim facias, a beefy 23-inch wheel/tyre narrow, winding ascent of Mount the car in the slightest, even on
accents. 06 Audi says rear spoiler has
actual downforce benefits. 07 RS Q8 comes combo (optional; 22s are standard) Teide as the 441 kW RS Q8 mon- damp tarmac. Get to the corner
in nine exterior colours. 08 The tracks and a pair of drainpipe-mimicking sters the short straights between apex and you can simply stand
are nearly 1,7 metres wide, affording the oval exhausts, it’s not dramati- the rapid succession of corners,
biggest RS an imposing stance. on the gas to slingshot down the
cally different to the standard Q8 with the V8 whooshing – rather next straight. It’s fair to say we
and I quite like this tasteful visual than bellowing – with enthusiasm hustled the RS Q8 with far more
has begun to move. This tech is restraint. Fire up the twin-turbo as revs rise. vigour than most owners are ever
claimed to reduce consumption V8 and there isn’t the eruption
by 0,8 L/100km, although econo- of sound from the exhausts you Barely a hint of tyre squeal, let alone
my would be among the lowest might have expected. That said,
priorities for RS Q8 customers. these are Euro-spec cars and momentum-sapping understeer
Our first taste of Audi’s new road Audi execs say vehicles bound for
rocket takes place in Tenerife, a vol- selected other markets (such as The RS Q8 comes standard with likely to do and, even then, there
canic isle that has commonalities North America, the Middle East huge carbon-ceramic brakes was barely a hint of tyre squeal,
with Hawaii, Iceland and southern and, yes, South Africa) will have (440 mm diameter at the front let alone momentum-sapping
mainland Spain – depending on a different exhaust system that and 370 mm at the rear) and these understeer to contend with.
which part of the island you’re on. produces more aural drama. do a mighty job of wiping off high According to the laws of phys-
Although the vibe is that of a typ- Once underway, it’s initially the three-digit speeds with disdain. ics, what the hefty RS Q8 can do
ical beach resort if you stick close civilised demeanour of the RS Q8 Above all else, though, it’s the shouldn’t be possible. A fortunate
to the coast, the landscape (and that stands out. Road and wind mind-boggling grip and com- few with deep pockets will get to
climate) changes abruptly as you noise are well suppressed, while posure of the 2,3-tonne jugger- experience this first-hand, as the
make your way up towards Mount the ride is impressively compliant, naut that hits home. There’s an new RS flagship lands in South
Teide, with its snow-capped peak even in the most aggressive RS2 immediate response to steering Africa in the third quarter, with
that summits at 3 718 metres. mode, which is individually con- inputs, enabling you to accurately pricing likely to start around
First impressions on seeing figurable and selectable via a new place the two-metre wide chariot R2,5 million.
CARmag.co.za CAR FEBRUARY 2020 41
drive
HYUNDAI VENUE 1,0 TGDI GLIDE DCT ETA: NOW WHERE WE
Intimate venue
DROVE IT
Hyundai’s new Venue slots in below the Creta
and has VW’s T-Cross squarely in its sights
Cape Town
By: Ryan Bubear Ryan_Bubear
*Claimed figures
Price: R369 900 Engine: 1,0-litre, 3-cyl, turbopetrol Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch Power: 88 kW @ 6 000 r/min Torque: 172 N.m @ 1 500-4 000 r/min
0-100 km/h: 11,5 seconds* Top speed: 187 km/h* Fuel consumption: 6,9 L/100 km* CO : 148 g/km Rivals: Ford EcoSport; Renault Captur; Volkswagen T-Cross
2
+ punchy engine; good use of interior space no reach adjustment on steering column
hink Hyundai Automotive dia’s sub-four-metre class, which Fluid trim levels are offered with particularly impressive on paper,
South Africa has already attracts a lower excise duty), the either a six-speed manual or the fact it’s spread liberally from
T plugged every conceivable SA-spec Venue is a substantial seven-speed dual-clutch trans- 1 500 to 4 000 r/min means the
crossover-shaped hole in its ex- 330 mm shorter than Ford’s mission, while the range-topping Venue feels genuinely punchy.
tensive line-up? Well, think again. EcoSport and some 240 mm more Glide variant evaluated here ships Although the smooth-shifting
There’s a smidgen of space at the compact than VW’s T-Cross. exclusively in self-shifting guise. dual-clutch gearbox goes about its
foot of the range and the box-fresh Each of the five derivatives in It’s a lovely little engine, di- business with little fuss, it’s the
Venue has elbowed its way onto the local Venue range is pow- recting its 88 kW to the front axle manual cog-swapper that allows
local dealership floors to fill it. ered by the same turbocharged with a pleasing mix of verve and the driver to make the most of the
Not that it needs much room. 1,0-litre, three-cylinder petrol sophistication. While the Chen- turbo-triple’s sprightliness.
Measuring a mere 3 995 mm nose engine available in the Kona. The nai-built crossover’s peak twisting It’s often tricky to develop a
to tail (and thus qualifying for In- entry-level Motion and mid-tier force of 172 N.m doesn’t look balanced ride when working with
42 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za
a short (in this case 2 500 mm) offers surprisingly generous head-
wheelbase but Hyundai’s engi- room all round, while the luggage
neers have done a fair job. It’s compartment swallows a claimed
slightly on the firm side but that’s 350 litres. Legroom at the back is
mitigated somewhat by 195 mm sufficient for passengers of aver-
of ground clearance and relatively age height, although the pint-sized
high-profile rubber. The second- pavement hopper’s rising hipline
ary ride, though, isn’t quite as and chunky C-pillars render the
polished, while the steering feels rear quarters slightly less inviting
a touch slow around centre. for those of a claustrophobic dis-
But such foibles are unlikely to position. It’s also worth noting the
concern buyers who do the ma- centrally sited rear passenger has
jority of their driving in bustling to make do with a lap belt rather
city centres. Here, the diminutive than an inertia-reel item.
01
Venue excels, with its upright While you don’t have to look
stance offering a commanding far to find hard plastics in the cab-
view of the road. The driving in, partial-leather upholstery and
position is suitably lofty, even a leather-trimmed steering wheel
with the height-adjustable perch along with an eight-inch touch-
dropped to its lowest position, but screen (boasting Apple CarPlay
frustratingly the steering column and Android Auto functionality)
offers tilt adjustment only. 02 03 lend the higher-spec variants add-
You’d think the Venue’s trun- ed tactile appeal. Fit and finish,
cated body would result in a decid- too, are impressive.
edly pokey cabin but the Korean So, what sort of cash are we
automaker has been smart with looking at? Well, with the base Mo-
its packaging. Making the most of tion derivatives stripped of various
its boxy proportions, the Venue items (such as the aforementioned
touchscreen, rear parking sensors,
01 Hyundai’s smallest crossover measures cruise control, alloy wheels and
just 3 995 mm long, substantially more roof rails) and settling for two air-
truncated than its direct competition. bags rather than the six employed
02 The flagship Glide variant boasts
automatic air-conditioning. 03 Instrument by the rest of the range, pricing
cluster offers a wealth of information. starts at a competitive R274 900.
04 Seats are trimmed in a mix of leather The best value, though, is found in
and cloth. 05 Steering column lacks
reach adjustment. the middle of the line-up, where
04 the well-specified Fluid variants
are priced from R309 900.
This flagship Glide derivative,
meanwhile, comes in at R369 900,
resulting in a small overlap with
the Creta. But it’s perhaps the
i20 hatchback that will be most
affected by the arrival of the
Venue as buyers continue their
migration towards crossovers.
Hyundai’s most impressive
achievement with the Venue is it
doesn’t feel at all hamstrung by
its compact dimensions. Indeed,
from behind the wheel it comes
across as larger than it is, allowing
it to go toe to toe with its slightly
stouter rivals. And while the gap at
the bottom of Hyundai’s crossover
range was by no means consider-
able, I suspect the Venue’s initial
sales figures will prove it was one
05
worth filling.
CARmag.co.za CAR FEBRUARY 2020 43
drive
NISSAN MICRA 1,0T TEKNA PLUS ETA: NOW WHERE WE
Marching to the DROVE IT
sound of the beat
The Micra range has been expanded to attract Johannesburg
buyers looking for more luxury and punch
By: Nikesh Kooverjee NikeshKooverjee
*Claimed figures
Price: R336 900 Engine: 1,0-litre, 3-cylinder, turbopetrol Transmission: six-speed manual Power: 84 kW @ 5 150 r/min Torque: 180 N.m @ 1 750-4 000 r/min
0-100 km/h: 9,9 seconds* Top speed: 195 km/h* Fuel cons: 5,0 L/100 km* CO : 115 g/km Rivals: Ford Fiesta 1,0T Titanium; VW Polo 1,0 TSI 85 kW Highline
2
+ impressive standard features; dynamic chassis underpowered engine; no automatic option
ooking for a B-segment has expanded its Micra line-up to represent fair increases over the new derivatives feature sports
hatchback? Well, right now accommodate those yearning for a 66 kW and 140 N.m offered by the suspension, lowering the ride
L you’re positively spoilt for touch more zest and luxury. 898 cm unit fitted to models lower height by 10 mm.
3
choice. In years gone by, C-segment The three new variants in the range. After sampling the flagship
five-doors seemed to be the go-to (Acenta Plus, Tekna and Tekna The new engine sends its oomph Tekna Plus, I was impressed by
purchases but that’s no longer Plus) employ the Renault-Nis- to the front wheels by means of the number of standard features.
the case, thanks in part to the san-Mitsubishi Alliance’s turbo- a six-speed manual gearbox as Luxuries such as LED headlamps,
continued rise of the crossover. Yet, charged 1,0-litre three-cylinder standard. Demand for an automatic keyless entry, 360-degree parking
smaller offerings such as Volkswa- petrol engine delivering 84 kW transmission in this segment is cameras, leather upholstery, blind-
gen’s Polo are seemingly as popular and 180 N.m of torque (with an increasing and Nissan SA has con- spot monitoring and a Bose Person-
as ever in South Africa. In a bid to additional 20 N.m on tap via an firmed it is working on a self-shift- al sound system create a genuine
take advantage of this, Nissan SA overboost feature). Those figures ing option for this powertrain. The premium experience.
44 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za
The Micra offers an impressive
mix of stability and comfort through
suburbia and on highways
01 02
was not quite as refined as that of to its set of grippy Bridgestone
Bose systems used in, for instance, Turanza tyres. Overall, the vehicle
Mazda’s products (this after a offers an impressive mix of stabil-
sound test with a FLAC audio file ity and comfort through suburbia
demonstrated a hint of reverb). and on highways.
In terms of perceived quality, However, the new 1,0-litre
the high-spec Micra’s cabin is engine doesn’t quite match the
right up there with the best in verve of the chassis; the 88 kW
the segment. The texture of the 1,2-litre four-cylinder engine
leather and plastics feels premi- used in the Clio GT-Line launched
um, and the fit and finish solid. back in 2017 felt far stronger, for
Interestingly, the air-conditioning instance. Although this latest
system’s minimum temperature three-cylinder unit is fairly re-
03 setting is a relatively lofty 18 de- fined, it struggles with turbo lag,
grees … not ideal on a scorching forcing the driver to rev the en-
01, 02 & 03 One of the better-looking On paper, the Bose sound day in Johannesburg. gine harder than is ideal to make
vehicles in this segment, the Micra 1,0T system is definitely the highlight Using the outgoing Renault decent progress. In addition, the
Tekna Plus adds 17-inch alloys wrapped in
205/45 rubber and piercing LED headlamps. of the package, with two Ultra- Clio’s platform as a base, the hill-start assist function feels
04 Interior perceived quality is a match for Nearfield speakers fitted to the Micra is enjoyable to pilot, while a touch intrusive, holding the
that of its main rivals and the controls are driver’s headrest. That said, it’s that new sports suspension and vehicle in place a fraction longer
easy to master. 05 Manual transmission
might hamper sales in a segment where unfortunate the front passenger the weighty electrically assisted than it needs to and occasionally
automatic transmissions have become doesn’t also enjoy this unique power steering system add a causing an awkward pull-away.
commonplace. 06 Bose sound system feature. While the speaker package degree of excitement. In terms of The B-segment is certainly bus-
features speakers fitted to the driver’s
headrest. 07 USB port well placed ahead is comprehensive, I was a bit dis- handling, the small hatch feels tling, yet it’s interesting to note
of the gearlever. appointed the delivery of the audio refreshingly enthusiastic thanks there aren’t many warm hatches
playing in this part of the market.
Nissan’s MR16DDT turbocharged
1,6-litre engine (used in the
fourth-generation Renault Clio RS)
would be the perfect powerplant
to push the Micra into this perfor-
mance territory, particularly with
a six-speed manual gearbox. This
would make a great successor to
the 1988 Nissan Micra Super Tur-
bo and put smiles on the faces of
enthusiasts. One can but dream...
Regardless of my hot hatch
fantasies, I will say this: while
the new engine isn’t quite as
perky as I had hoped, these latest
well-equipped additions to the
local Micra range do broaden its
appeal, offering further choice to
many consumers. That’s surely a
04
good thing; however, the absence
of an automatic option will likely
hamper interest, particularly when
accomplished hatches in this
segment – namely the Volkswagen
Polo and Ford Fiesta – offer capable
automatic transmissions through-
05 06 07 out the range.
CARmag.co.za CAR FEBRUARY 2020 45
drive
LEXUS RX450H SE ETA: NOW WHERE WE
Charm offensive DROVE IT
The updated Lexus RX offers improved comfort and
convenience while remaining true to its luxury mandate
George
By: Ian McLaren IanM_CARmag
*Claimed figures
Price: R1 342 100 Engine: 3,5-litre, V6, petrol + electric motor Transmission: e-CVT Petrol power: 193 kW @ 6 000 r/min Petrol torque: 335 N.m @
4 600 r/min 0-100 km/h: 7,7 seconds* Top speed: 200 km/h* Fuel consumption: 5,7 L/100 km* CO : 131 g/km Rivals: BMW X5 xDrive45e; Volvo XC90 T8
2
+ classy looks; build quality CVT doesn’t like to be rushed; small boot
ntroduced in 1997, the emphasis on luxury and comfort Available in South Africa since Toyota’s luxury division.
first-generation Lexus RX was than adventure-seeking off-road the second-generation RX300 With modern competition from
I developed primarily for the ability. While others have eagerly arrived in 2003 and, perhaps as the likes of Volvo, BMW and Range
US market. Having established followed suit, 22 years and four a result of its by-design curtailed Rover now also offering hybrid
itself as a leading protagonist in generations later, the RX remains sense of adventure, the local derivatives – Lexus maintains a
this market’s luxury automotive the bestselling luxury SUV in the reception to Lexus’ premium SUV 40% local market share in this
stakes (led by the supremely United States by some margin. has never quite measured up to its relatively niche segment – the
accomplished LS400), Lexus’ A pioneer in design and execu- appeal across the Atlantic. As with fourth-generation RX range has
introduction of the first RX300 tion, the 2005 (US) introduction of most of this brand’s offerings, received a subtle refresh in the
was significant. It paved the way the RX400h would also signal the though, it’s impossible to ignore form of updated exterior styling
for a segment of raised ride- first time hybrid technology would the level of sophistication and and some small yet significant
height offerings placing greater be offered in a luxury vehicle. class inherently associated with tweaks to the interior packaging.
46 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za
Wearing the latest iteration of While the sharper and more
the brand’s spindle grille intro- driver-focused RX350 F Sport
duced with the UX, other notable derivative enters the fray com-
changes to its styling include plete with bespoke bodywork and
restyled bumpers as well as an 20-inch alloy wheels, it remains
altogether narrower headlamp the softer, more leisurely RX450h
cluster, arranged to house Lexus’ package that best complements
newest Bladescan adaptive LED the sleek and classy lines of the
headlamp technology, standard on modern RX package.
the RX450h. Together with a renewed focus
As comfortable and well on torsional rigidity and ride com-
appointed as ever, the biggest fort (including the incorporation
news in terms of the RX’s interior of a new “friction control device”
treatment is the incorporation of within the shock absorbers),
a new 12,3-inch touchscreen in- there’s something impressive
fotainment system. Replacing the about the way the 450h is able to
frustratingly intricate and com- glide from standstill in stealth,
01
plex trackpad arrangement in the all-electric mode before the
outgoing model, the presence of 3,5-litre V6 petrol engine takes
The presence of a crisp a crisp touchscreen display (sup- over further up the road. The
touchscreen display is plemented with a new, although RX’s well-insulated cabin does
still a bit too sensitive, touchpad)
an admirable job of cocooning
a game-changer mounted within easy reach of its occupants against outside
the driver is a game-changer for road and drivetrain noises. Even
a vehicle that accounts for 15% of the much-maligned presence of
the brand’s local sales. an e-CVT seems somehow more
Arguably of less significance acceptable in an RX package that,
to the average RX owner is the let’s be honest, is only likely to
addition of Apple CarPlay and An- be driven hard by an enthusiastic
droid Auto smartphone-mirroring teenager borrowing the keys for
technology within an infotain- the night.
ment bundle that already includes As before, the RX’s petrol
in-car Wi-Fi since September 2019 engine drives the front wheels
(although, I’d recommend asking only, while interventions from
your dealership to set it up for you a rear-mounted electric motor
02 03
before exiting the showroom). complete an all-wheel-drive
setup should conditions dictate
and there’s adequate remaining
charge in the battery to do so.
If there is a downside to the
450h’s packaging in comparison
with other derivatives, it’s that
this model’s luggage and fuel tank
capacity suffers for the cause.
With more young-at-heart
models like the quirky UX,
modern NX and svelte RC coupé
nestled within the modern Lexus
portfolio, the impressively sophis-
ticated RX has been freed up to
embrace its role as a pinnacle of
what this luxury-oriented brand
does best.
01 Terrane Khaki one of two new colours.
02 Touchpad replaces clumsy mouse-like
trackpad of the previous car. 03 Not much
need for sport modes in the leisurely 450h.
04 04 12,3-inch touchscreen adds convenience.
CARmag.co.za CAR FEBRUARY 2020 47
drive
RENAULT KWID 1,0 CLIMBER ETA: NOW WHERE WE
Kwid pro no
DROVE IT
Has Renault addressed the budget-beating Kwid’s Johannesburg
shortcomings with this facelift?
By: Ryan Bubear Ryan_Bubear
*Claimed figures
Price: R164 900 Engine: 1,0-litre, 3-cyl, petrol Transmission: 5-speed manual Power: 50 kW @ 5 500 r/min Torque: 91 N.m @ 4 250 r/min
0-100 km/h: n/a Top speed: 152 km/h* Fuel consumption: 4,7 L/100 km* C0 : 112 g/km Rivals: Datsun Go; Hyundai Atos; Suzuki Celerio
2
+ standard equipment levels; distinctive styling safety concerns remain
otwithstanding our the past three years, introducing with either a ve-speed manual new grille and sited atop chunky
initial criticism, spot- special editions and automated gearbox or an automated manual main elements – Renault has os-
N lighting safety concerns manual variants before nally transmission employing the same tensibly improved the Indian-built
and making it dif cult for us to tting ABS as standard in April number of cogs. Kwid’s safety speci cations.
recommend the Kwid when we 2019. But this latest update repre- So, what exactly does the Kwid’s Dual airbags now ship standard
rst tested it in early 2017, the sents the rst formal facelift for midcycle refresh entail? Besides the (the pre-facelift model made do
smallest model in Renault’s local the diminutive crossover-inspired obvious styling changes – the most with a single driver’s item), while
range has proven a smash hit in hatchback. The rejigged local noticeable being the thoroughly a seatbelt reminder for the front
South Africa, promptly assuming Kwid range has grown from ve to revised front-end, which includes seats has been introduced. Is that
the role of bestseller. six derivatives, with the famil- an in-vogue split-lighting arrange- enough for the Kwid to better its
Renault South Africa has steadily iar Expression, Dynamique and ment comprising narrow day- most recent Global NCAP crash
expanded its Kwid line-up over Climber trim levels each offered time-running items bookending a test rating, a solitary star scored
48 CAR FEBRUARY 2020 CARmag.co.za
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CAR is Southern Africa’s leading automotive-interest magazine – and has been since 1957. It’s aimed at petrol-heads of all ages looking for, expert reviews, road tests, driving impressions of the latest models available and great motoring content from the country’s leading motoring journalists.
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