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Set to hit the market in the fourth quarter of 2023 and boasting an impressive annual production volume of around 300 000 units, the T-Cross has established itself as one of the most successful vehicles in Volkswagen’s global lineup.

Image: Volkswagen

Related: Volkswagen’s Touareg R eHybrid makes more power than Golf R

One of the standout features of the updated T-Cross is its modernized exterior design, highlighted by the redesigned front and rear sections featuring new integrated LED headlights, LED daytime running lights, and LED taillight clusters. The introduction of the IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights, a brand-new Volkswagen development, further enhances the car’s visual appeal. Additionally, Volkswagen has added three fresh colours to the T-Cross model range: Grape Yellow, Clear Blue Metallic, and Kings Red Metallic, offering customers a broader range of customization options.

Image: Volkswagen

Inside the cabin, the new T-Cross is equipped with an upgraded infotainment system and a high-quality interior. The focal point of the interior is the free-standing infotainment display, available in two sizes: 20.3 cm (eight inches) for the standard version and 23.4 cm (9.2 inches) for the top-of-the-range variant. The dash panel and front door trims have also undergone a complete redesign, featuring soft-upholstered surfaces and higher-quality materials, delivering a more refined and luxurious feel. The T-Cross offers a manual air conditioning system as standard, with an optional upgrade to the Air Care Climatronic automatic air conditioner featuring back-lit touch sliders.

Image: Volkswagen

With ample room for up to five occupants, the rear bench seat can be adjusted by 140 mm, ensuring flexible seating arrangements. The luggage compartment provides a claimed capacity of 385 to 455 litres with all seats occupied, which expands to an impressive 1 281 litres when the rear bench seat is folded down. Notably, the front passenger seat can also be folded down in higher specification packages, resulting in a continuous load area that stretches 2 398 mm from the rear to the front.

Image: Volkswagen

Related: Volkswagen’s special edition Golf 8 R 333 sold out in 8 Minutes

The new T-Cross offers an optional Travel Assist system, making it one of the few vehicles in its class to provide advanced longitudinal and lateral vehicle control. The system can automatically control speed, acceleration, and braking within certain limits, taking into account traffic conditions, speed limits, bends, and roundabouts. 

Image: Volkswagen

The base version of the 2024 T-Cross now comes with upgraded features as standard, including LED headlights, LED taillights, a multifunction camera, Dynamic Road Sign Display, the Digital Cockpit, and a new free-standing infotainment display. The Life version takes it a step further with 16-inch alloy wheels and a leather multifunction steering wheel, while the Style and R-Line specification packages cater to those seeking more elegance or sporty accents, respectively.

Browse over 26 000 new or used cars here with CARmag. 

The post More tech and greater comfort imbued in the 2024 T-Cross appeared first on CAR Magazine.

Image: Ford

Ford’s decision to cull the Fiesta was necessary rather than a want, given the uptake of electrification and the collaboration with Volkswagen, signed in 2019.

According to Martin Saunder, general manager of Ford’s Model E electrification division in Europe, it was a business decision to convert the Cologne facility into the Blue Oval’s first high-volume EV (electric vehicle) production facility.

“We decided to build our first high-volume electric vehicle here in Cologne,” Sander revealed to AutoCar. “There comes the point where we need the space for construction, because we are turning the Fiesta plant into a fully battery-electric plant. This is why we had to make a decision that we have to stop Fiesta production.”

The Fiesta was discontinued from Ford South Africa’s portfolio in March 2022, and the Figo’s removal soon followed it.

SA and the Fiesta

Though the Fiesta first saw the light in 1976, it wasn’t until the fourth generation (global debut: 1995) that South Africans would get their first taste of the hatchback. The car arrived on local soil a few years later and won the 1998 South African Car of the Year competition.

In 2010, and now its fifth generation, Ford launched the spicy Fiesta ST, complete with a naturally aspirated 2,0-litre petrol engine, developing 110 kW and 190 N.m. A short-throw five-speed manual gearbox channelled power to the front wheels, ensuring plenty of thrills.

Though it never won the SA COTY title again, the Fiesta remained a local favourite. In the following generations, the car became roomier and more technologically advanced, and the safety features were at the forefront of its segment.

But it was in 2017 that Ford really turned it up. The automaker launched a special edition Fiesta ST 200, with only 160 units for the local market. And what a treat! The Fiesta ST200’s 1,6-litre turbocharged petrol engine produced 149 kW (200 hp) and 240 N.m, sent to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission.

Image: Ford

The CAR team summarised the ST200’s driving experience: “It’s still outrageous fun pointing Ford’s hottest Fiesta at a twisty road – even if the driving position is a touch too lofty – with the three-mode traction-control system effectively allowing the driver to determine the limit and the clever torque vectoring control helping to serve up heaps of front-end grip. In short, the fleet-of-foot Fiesta ST200 is an eminently difficult car to fluster, even at speed over bumpy surfaces.”

Related: Ford Fiesta range gets updated with bolder design and new powertrain

The Fiesta ST200 would be the last new Ford ST model in South Africa.

In 2018, South Africa received the then-new generation of Ford’s popular hatchback, but it was clear that change was in the air. Though other markets, like the UK, received updated and refreshed models, Ford SA did not, and the agreed-upon stock had to run its course, leading to the eventual removal in March of last year.

What’s next for Ford – globally and locally?

Ford is geared for an electric future. The American automotive giant already has several EVs in its portfolio, including the Mustang Mach E and F-150 Lightning, and plans to expand on that, thanks to the agreement with Volkswagen. Ford will produce its vehicles based on VW’s MEB platform – in other words, electric vehicles – at the Cologne plant, which includes three new EVs that it plans to sell in Europe from 2024 onwards.

The post Remember the date: Last day of Ford Fiesta production set appeared first on CAR Magazine.

Image: Kia

Let’s take a closer look at the new Kia Picanto, available in both baseline and GT-Line trims.

One glance at the top-of-the-line model is all it takes to notice the striking difference from its predecessor. The front end boasts vertically stacked headlights that meet in the middle, thanks to an LED bar positioned on the upper section of the iconic “tiger nose” grille. Moving to the rear, the taillights are now connected through a sleek light bar running across the tailgate, adding a touch of modernity.

Image: Kia

The GT-Line variant sports additional features, such as air intakes on the front bumper, though it remains uncertain whether they serve a functional purpose. On the other hand, the baseline model presents a more seamless front bumper design. Despite its compact size, the GT-Line surprises with its aggressive stance, thanks to a prominent rear diffuser. Wheel sizes range from 14 inches in the base models to 15 or 16 inches in the higher-end variants. For those looking for an extra touch of luxury, a small sunroof option is available.

Image: Kia

Under the metal, the 2024 Picanto offers a choice between two powertrains, both are naturally aspirated petrol units, available in 1.0-litre and 1.2-litre capacities. These engines are mated to a five-speed manual gearbox with an optional automated manual transmission. Although power and performance figures are yet to be disclosed.

In case you missed it: Leaked images showcase eye-catching 2023 Kia Picanto GT Line

Moving inside the cabin, the new Picanto impresses with a range of advanced technologies. The standard equipment includes an 8.0-inch floating touchscreen navigation system and a 4.2-inch digital display in the driver’s instrument cluster. The infotainment system supports Bluetooth multi-connection, allowing users to pair up to two mobile devices simultaneously. One device can be used for hands-free phone calls and media, while the other is solely dedicated to media use.

Image: Kia

Furthermore, both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are integrated into the system, ensuring seamless smartphone connectivity. The GT-Line trim adds a sporty touch with a flat-bottomed steering wheel and the luxurious perk of a heated steering wheel.

With its enhanced design and advanced technology, the 2024 Kia Picanto sets a new standard for compact hatchbacks.

Looking for your next Kia? Brows our listings page.

The post 2024 Kia Picanto unveiled: Design upgrades take centre stage appeared first on CAR Magazine.

Image: Dacia

The Dakar Rally, known for its challenging terrain and extreme conditions, attracts participants from all over the world. For the development of their entries, Dacia will utilize their in-house technical expertise and collaborate with Prodrive, a prominent British motorsport and engineering group with a strong reputation in the industry.

Related: Ford’s Dakar Ranger T1+ may ditch 3,5-litre V6 for Dakar

The driver lineup  for Dacia’s team will feature Sébastien Loeb, a nine-time French rally world champion, and Cristina Gutierrez Herrero, an accomplished Spanish rally driver who has previously completed the Dakar Rally in the car category.

Dacia’s race car entry for the Dakar Rally will be powered by synthetic test fuel supplied by Aramco, a global leader in the energy and chemicals sector. Aramco’s synthetic fuel solutions are produced by combining renewable hydrogen with captured CO2, resulting in a lower-carbon fuel compatible with existing engines.

Before the official participation in the 2025 season, Dacia’s prototypes will undergo testing, including their involvement in the Rallye du Maroc in 2024. This testing phase will allow the team to refine their vehicles and explore innovative solutions that align with Dacia’s focus on durability and energy efficiency.

Image: Dacia

Related: Local NWM rally team partners with M-Sport and Ford Performance for Dakar

Dacia’s entry into the World Rally-Raid Championship and the Dakar Rally represents a significant milestone for the brand. The collaboration with Prodrive, the selection of experienced drivers, and the use of synthetic test fuel provided by Aramco demonstrate Dacia’s commitment to competing in the rally-raid circuit and exploring sustainable mobility solutions. Dacia aims to test and showcase their capabilities in demanding conditions while also highlighting the potential of synthetic fuels in reducing carbon emissions.

As the anticipation builds for the 2025 season, motorsport enthusiasts will be eagerly awaiting Dacia’s debut in the World Rally-Raid Championship and their performance in the challenging Dakar Rally.

Browse over 26 000 new and used cars here with CARmag. 

The post Dacia enters the 2025 Dakar season powered by synthetic fuels appeared first on CAR Magazine.

Time spent:                                           2 months of 6 months

Distance covered:                               2 500 km

Average fuel consumption:            10,8 L/100 km

We like:                                                  Versatility, strong performance

We don’t like:                                       Sensitive lane keeping assist

BY: Ian McLaren

An already imposing-looking vehicle, my flagship Ford Everest V6 Platinum seems to draw that much more attention on the road for its chrome detailing – including on the vehicle’s massive grille – as well its standard 21-inch wheels. Those distinct C-shaped LED daytime running lights are also difficult to miss.

Like its sister car the current Ranger double-cab, the Everest does struggle to hide its presence, especially within the confines of an otherwise tight shopping centre parking lot. You do need to concentrate to align the vehicle within an open bay so that all passengers to the left and right are able to exit without their respective doors touching the vehicle parked alongside. I’ve taken to helping my young children out of their seats to avoid potential damage.

Another area where this vehicle always feels large is on the freeway, where its particularly sensitive lane-keeping alert system continuously intervenes once it assumes the vehicle is unintentionally leaving its particularly narrow-in-an-Everest designated lane. While I’ve taken to switching this system off (fortunately an easy process), I have also recently been “warned” to keep both hands on the wheel – presumably by another system that isn’t happy with my “irregular” steering inputs.

In case you missed it: Living With It – Ford Everest V6 Platinum introduction

My Everest has fortunately also been spending time away from congestion. On one occasion it proved to be an ideal car-to-car tracking vehicle as our film crew captured footage for one of our online videos. While they appreciated this Ford’s segment-leading ride quality (even on large wheels), and the large luggage compartment swallowed all their gear, on this day they also appreciated the tall opening tailgate that provided a welcome shield from the rain as they filmed on location.

On one longer open road excursion, we managed to get the average fuel consumption down to 10,3 L/100 km.

This Everest is scheduled for its 15 000 km service and I’m looking to use the FordPass App that’s now linked to “my” vehicle to make the booking at my nearest dealership.

Browse over 26 000 new and used cars here with CARmag

The post Living with it – Ford Everest V6 Platinum update appeared first on CAR Magazine.

Image: Toyota

The June sales results show a positive trend, as aggregate domestic sales revealed a notable upswing, with an increase of 5 758 vehicles or 14% compared with the figures from June 2022, when 41 052 vehicles were sold. Going through the Naamsa numbers, one brand remains head and shoulders above all others. 

Top 10 best-selling brands:

• Toyota – 13 016
• Volkswagen – 5 578
• Suzuki Auto – 4 335
• Hyundai Auto – 2 645
• Ford – 2 514
• Nissan – 2 380
• Isuzu Motors – 2 365
• Renault – 1 836
• Haval Motors – 1 749
• Kia SA – 1 507

Toyota’s position at the top is clear, with a significant margin that separates it from its competitors. Not only did Toyota emerge victorious as the best-selling brand overall for June, but it also maintained its reign as the undisputed champion of passenger brands. 

Related: Toyota tops bakkie sales for June 2023

Top 10 passenger brands: 

• Toyota – 7 076
• Volkswagen – 5 059
• Suzuki Auto – 4 062
• Hyundai – 2 362 
• Renault – 1 808
• Chery Auto SA – 1 402
• Kia SA – 1 398
• BMW – 1 246
• Haval – 1 220
• Nissan – 855

Looking to buy a new or used Toyota? Find it here. 

The post Top 10 best-selling brands for the month of June 2023 appeared first on CAR Magazine.

Toyota Urban Cruiser 1,5 XR manual long term stats

Time spent: 1 of 3 months

Distance covered: 1 430 km

Average fuel consumption: 7,4 L/100 km

Driver: Ryan de Villiers

We like: Comfort; versatile interior

We don’t like: High revs at cruising speeds

Looking for a new or used Toyota? Find it here with CARmag. 

Based once more on a Suzuki product (this time badged as the Grand Vitara), the new Urban Cruiser is an altogether larger package than the first iteration. This means more interior room and a welcome 25-litres worth of additional packing space compared with the outgoing model. I like that the backseat backrest offers a 60:40 split fold-down function, a convenience that isn’t too common in this segment.

Competing within the all-important B-SUV segment, I appreciate that our top-spec XR derivative features 17-inch alloy wheels compared with the steel items fitted to the XS derivative. Another standout feature is the wireless Android Auto functionality of the infotainment system which is operated seamlessly via the car’s multifunction steering wheel.

Related: Toyota’s Urban Cruiser has gotten bigger, but is it better? Review

It is pleasing that the Urban Cruiser feels altogether more substantial on the road compared with the first-generation car which it replaces. That said, it remains a relatively lightweight package, which helps its 1,5-litre naturally aspirated engine to feel like a near-perfect fit for this budget-friendly offering. It’s just a pity that the manual transmission in our car doesn’t feature a sixth ratio as this would make for an altogether less frantic corresponding engine note while cruising at 120 km/h on national highways.

With my weekly commute comprising mostly, well, urban routes, I’ve managed to settle the average fuel consumption at an acceptable 7,4 L/100 km.

With thousands of new and used vehicles on offer, find your next set of wheels with CARmag. 

The post Living With it – Toyota Urban Cruiser 1,5 XR manual introduction appeared first on CAR Magazine.

Image: Mitsubishi

One glance at the Triton Savana, and you’ll notice its striking colours, complemented by its imposing off-road wheels. Drawing inspiration from the renowned Triton AT35, crafted by Arctic Trucks, this Mitsubishi creation exudes ruggedness and adventure.

Looking for a new or used Mitsubishi? Find it here with CARmag.

The Savana is equipped with an array of accessories designed to enhance its off-road prowess. A robust steel roof basket sits atop the truck, providing ample space for carrying extra gear. Traction boards have also been included to provide additional grip on loose surfaces, ensuring you stay in control even in the most challenging conditions. For added convenience, a storage box has been integrated into the bed, offering practical storage solutions for your expedition essentials.

Image: Mitsubishi

Mitsubishi has gone the extra mile to protect the Savana’s exterior, applying a spray-on protectant not only to the bed but also to the lower half of the front bumper and the fender flares. Additionally, the package includes a pair of rock sliders, safeguarding the vehicle’s undercarriage, and a snorkel, allowing you to confidently tackle water crossings.

In case you missed it: Sixth-generation Mitsubishi Triton slated for a reveal on July 26th

Off-road enthusiasts will be pleased to know that the Triton Savana comes fitted with all-terrain tyres as standard. These capable tyres are wrapped around glossy black steel rims, adding a touch of rugged elegance to the truck’s appearance. Furthermore, Mitsubishi offers exclusive paint choices for the Savana, including dark green, light brown, and yellow, allowing you to personalize your off-road companion to suit your style.

Image: Mitsubishi

While the Triton Savana impresses with its striking design and accessories, no major mechanical upgrades have been introduced. Under the hood, it retains the reliable 2,4-litre MIVEC turbodiesel engine, delivering a respectable 133 kW of power and 430 Nm of torque. Power is transmitted through a six-speed automatic transmission, powering all four wheels to conquer any terrain with confidence.

With its purpose-built features and attention to detail, this special edition model promises an exhilarating and adventurous driving experience. Don’t expect to see it on local roads though since this has been done exclusively by Mitsubishi in Brazil.

Find your next bakkie with CARmag, browse now. 

The post Triton Savana Sets New Benchmark, Surpassing the Strada appeared first on CAR Magazine.

Image: Toyota

The month of June 2023 proved to be a major increase of vehicle exports and new vehicle sales when compared to the same time in 2022. Exports rose by 4,7% while new vehicle sales increased by 4,8%. Toyota claimed the top step of both the passenger brand segment and light commercial vehicle segments. Here is how they fared along with other bestsellers locally.

The upbeat new vehicle market performance was encouraging given the multiplicity of negative considerations which still outweighs positive ones during the month of June 2023. Aggregate domestic new vehicle sales in June, at 46,810 units reflected an increase of 5,758 units, or 14,0%, from the 41,052 vehicles sold in June 2022. Export sales recorded a decline of 3,920 units, or 12,6%, to 27,296 units in June 2023 compared to the 31,216 vehicles exported in June 2022. – The Automotive Business Council

Looking to buy a new or used Toyota? Find it here. 

Top 5 light commercial vehicle brands for June 2023

1. Toyota – 5 655
2. Ford – 2 214
3. Isuzu – 1 953
4. Nissan – 1 525
5. Mahindra – 696

While the light commercial vehicle segment is primarily made up of bakkies, panel vans and minibus taxis also contribute to the monthly sales figures of each automaker. So let’s have a look at who holds the crown for best-selling bakkie in the month.

Top 5 selling bakkies for June 2023

1. Toyota Hilux – 3 792
2. Ford Ranger – 2 099
3. Isuzu D-Max – 1 953
4. Nissan NP200 – 1 108
5. Mahindra Scorpio Pik-Up – 662

Toyota and Ford both manufacture and export their utilitarian models to foreign markets, here is how many of each bakkie found homes abroad.

Top 4 exported bakkies for June 2023

1. Toyota Hilux – 3 957
2. Ford Ranger – 2 373
3. Isuzu D-Max – 427
4. Nissan Navara – 364

Find your next bakkie with CARmag, browse now. 

The post Toyota tops bakkie sales for June 2023 appeared first on CAR Magazine.

Image: Opel

Earlier this week in Rüsselsheim, the German automaker debuted new interpretation of its iconic emblem, the ‘Blitz’, which will feature on production vehicles as early as 2024.

Looking for your next Opel? Browse here with CARmag. 

It will continue to form a central element of the Opel Compass, one of the main features of the Rüsselsheim-based carmaker’s exciting and critically acclaimed design philosophy, while simultaneously continuing to sit proudly at the centre of the Opel Vizor brand face. Moving into an era of electromobility, the lightning bolt – or ‘Blitz’ in German – which is closely associated with electricity is the most symbolic way of demonstrating this transition. 

Related: Opel debuts 2024 Corsa facelift with ICE and EV powertrains

“Our ‘Blitz’ is more relevant than ever before. It not only symbolises our commitment to the democratization of innovation and mobility but also conveys our commitment to becoming a fully electric brand in Europe by 2028. This year, we will already have 15 electrified models in our portfolio and can proudly say that Opel is electric,” said Opel CEO Florian Huettl.

The German carmaker will gradually roll out the new ‘Blitz’ across its product portfolio in the coming years with the first production vehicle set to sport the new look in 2024.

Image: Opel

Before then, Huettl announced that the new emblem will feature prominently this year already. “The IAA Mobility is one of the biggest motor shows in the world and therefore the perfect location to proudly introduce a large, international audience to our new ‘Blitz’. Furthermore, we also have a surprise planned. Visitors of our presence in Munich will be thrilled,” he said.

With thousands of new and used vehicles on offer, find your next set of wheels with CARmag. 

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