NamWheels Edition 27

FR EE

NamWheels www.namwheels.com

NAMIBIAN MOTORING FOCUS

EDITION 27 | DEC 21 - JAN 22

A GALIMOTO MEDIA PRODUCT

JAC?

How “bakkie” is the new

NEWS & NEW MODELS

TOP 5 LIST

TEST DRIVES / REVIEWS

SAFETY & DRIVING TIPS

LATEST VIDEOS

CLASSIFIEDS

DRIVE A SUPERCAR FROM R 2 999

021 813 6060 www.giftexperience.co.za

PERFECT FOR PETROLHEADS

MAKES A GREAT GIFT

GAUTENG & WESTERN CAPE

2

INDEX

NamWheels ...is a motoring portal for petrolheads, by petrolheads, in our beautiful Land of the Brave, Namibia. We aim to bring you a fairly regular boost of all things automotive which should be exciting for viewers, beneficial to advertisers and something all Namibian car lovers can be proud of.

Some copyright and regional issues may apply. Unless otherwise stated, tests are conducted in South Africa at (or near) sea level while all prices and specifcations were correct at the time of being published. Please confirm local availability and pricing with your nearest dealer! We take great care during publishing, yet cannot be held liable for the results of incorrect data.

Publisher: Galimoto Media cc Distribution: The Interwebs Editor: Hanjo Stier Sub: Agent M Design: 825 Media Contributors: Franco Theron Nico Boshoff Karl-Heinz Eisenberg

DEC 21 - JAN 22

Page 2

You’re looking at it

Page 3

News & New Models

Page 4

Videos on our YouTube channel

Page 5

NamWheels top5 List

Page 6

Review: JAC T8

Page 7

Safety: How to drive on a dirt road

Page 10 Sprint Review: Ford Ranger Sport Page 11 Sprint Review: Mitsu. Eclipse Cross Page 12 Review: Hyundai Creta CVT

Advertise: 081 348 3348 info@namwheels.com www.namwheels.com

@ / GalimotoMedia

PLEASE TAKE NOTE:

www.825.co.za

This publication requires an internet connection! We advise using someone else’s wifi.

CREATIVE CONTENT AGENCY

www.825.co.za

DIGITAL MARKETING

VIDEO PRODUCTION TRANSLATIONS NEWSLETTERSPRINT ADVERTISING BRAND BIBLES

TEMPLATES WEBSITES

PHOTOGRAPHYDIGIZINES DTPSOUND EDITING INFO PACKS PRINT PUBLICATION AND LAYOUT SLIDE DESIGN FLYERS POSTERS BANNERS BROCHURES SIGNAGE CRM

EMAILERS YOUTUBE

PRICE LISTS AND FORM DESIGN

NEWS

DEC 21 - JAN 22

NEWS AND BAIC INCREASES STAKE IN DAIMLER

JAC Motors ranks 40th Chinese brand

Nissan Patrol's 70th Anniversary

FORD S.A. HAS A NEW BRAAI ROBOT

TOYOTA AND LEXUS’ ELECTRIC PLANS

Beijing Automotive Group Co Ltd (BAIC) announced that it has been holding an increased stake of 9.98% in Daimler since 2019. This holding secures the brand a board seat with the German luxury car manufacturer.

While this emphasises the very successful partnership between Mercedes-Benz and BAIC in China, it entrenches the long-term plans and commitment between the brands in their joint venture.

BAIC has been Daimler's main partner in China for years as it operates Mercedes-Benz factories in Beijing through the two automakers' main joint venture, Beijing Benz Automotive.

During the Daimler and BAIC partnership, China emerged as the largest global market for Mercedes-Benz and their shared vision and focus on the shift towards electric mobility and digitalization and further entrenched the success of this partnership.

According to the BrandZ Top 50 Global Brands Report, JAC Motors ranks 40th among global Chinese brands in 2021. It ranks fifth among Chinese auto brands and is one of the top 20 Chinese "star" brands in emerging markets. It ranks under the top three automotive brands in emerging markets, showing tremendous global growth and brand loyalty.

As the world's largest brand equity data platform, BrandZ refers to questionnaires and Google or YouTube search indexes, combining results of more than 860 000 global consumer surveys indicating each brand's financial value and operating performance.

The BrandZ report shows that JAC Motors stood out among more than 1 662 candidate brands in 15 categories across 11 countries and regions, demonstrating the influence and reputation of the Brand in the eyes of global customers.

As part of celebrations around the 70th anniversary of the iconic Nissan Patrol, Nissan has launched a new platform to recognize those who have helped build the SUV's rich legacy.

Titled 'Patrol Legends', this spotlights stories from around the world, underlining the role of those who have sat behind the wheel of the Patrol while building its legendary reputation over decades.

Via the dedicated platform hosted on TheNissanNEXT website, new audiences can immerse themselves into the rich world of the Patrol and share their own memories.

The platform also features a dedicated 'Patrol Legends Training Package', a multiterrain driving masterclass that provides drivers with guidance on how to harness the Patrol's strength and unlock its power across different terrains – from road to desert to mountain.

There's a new braai master at Ford South Africa's Silverton Assembly Plant in Pretoria, but don't expect a reply when you tell him how you want your meat done.

That's because TCF BBQ, as it's affectionately known, is a robot! What TCF BBQ (Braai Boerewors Quickly) lacks in communication, it more than makes up for in speed!

Able to braai 120 pieces of meat in 12 minutes without breaking a sweat, TCF calmly flips and moves grills around with speed and precision - and is guaranteed to be the centre of attention.

TCF BBQ robot was the result of an internal competition where various departments were encouraged to design something unique while using whatever scrap materials and decommissioned tooling they could find and was available at the plant, following extensive upgrades to the assembly line that took place in 2021.

Toyota Motor Corporation held a press briefing on its battery EV strategies and revealed 16 Toyota and Lexus models that it is readying for market launch, including the Toyota bZ4X and Lexus RZ. President Toyoda announced that the company is going to roll out 30 BEV models and anticipates sales of 3.5 million BEVs globally by 2030. The Lexus brand aims to have BEVs account for 100% of the total sales in Europe, North America, and China by 2030.

Akio talked about why and how Toyota and Lexus have invested in BEVs and other options for carbon neutrality.

“We aim to achieve global sales of 3.5 million battery EVs per year by 2030. Lexus aims to realise a full line-up of battery EVs in all vehicle segments by 2030 and to have battery EVs account for 100 percent of its vehicle sales in Europe, North America, and China, totalling 1 million units globally...” said Toyoda.

NEW MODELS MINOR CHANGES FOR HONDA CR-V

LAND CRUISER 70 SPECIAL EDITION

The Honda CR-V has an impressive track record in Southern Africa, as a pioneer of the local compact SUV sector since its introduction more than 20 years ago.

To ensure that it retains all of its lustre, Honda endowed it with a subtly changed exterior.

The interior remains largely unchanged, continuing to provide premium finishes and unparalleled space.

The range still consists of four models offering two engines and varying spec levels.

A realignment of the range sees changes to the drivetrain and specifications of the 1.5T Executive. Most notably, this model now offers front-wheel drive, while still benefitting from the all-inclusive strategy Honda has become renowned for.

The number “70" carries a particular significance for the Toyota Land Cruiser.

It is 70 years ago that the first Land Cruiser made its debut.

Originally known as the BJ and intended for military use, this four-wheel drive juggernaut quickly went on to earn an enviable reputation for its go anywhere capability and rugged construction.

The number 70 also refers to the long running 70-series, which comprises 76 Station Wagon, 78 Wagon and 79 "bakkie". In celebration of the 70-year milestone Toyota SA is pleased to announce the release of a 70th Anniversary edition.

The special edition model will be applied to the 79-series single-cab and double-cab variants.

NEW C-CLASS HAS FINALLY ARRIVED

NEW RANGE OF STEED BAKKIES

NEW VW AMAROK IS ALMOST HERE

A new type of comfort zone is here to challenge the status quo. The sixth generation CClass boasts with minimalist design, luxurious comfort and innovative assistance systems.

Since its introduction in 1982, with the launch of the socalled 'Baby Benz' 190, more than 10.5 million C-Class vehicles have been sold in more than a hundred markets around the world.

The new C-Class reaches South African showrooms from December 2021.

Mercedes-Benz South Africa could not confirm local line-ups at the time of publishing.

After decades of service to the South African SOE, fleet and business customers, as well as leisure and lifestyle customers seeking a utility vehicle that truly is a versatile workhorse, Haval Motors SA (HMSA) is happy to announce that an upgraded version of the Steed range will be available in GWM dealerships across the country from mid-December and again after the festive break.

Deliveries to dealerships will resume early in January 2022.

The new generation Steed will replace the current Steed 5, Steed 6 & Steed 5e.

Whether getting medicine and food to remote locations, protecting wildlife or saving lives at the beach, the places where pick-ups are used are infinitely varied. Be it simply driving on open land like building sites or on rough tracks, the highlights of the new Amarok are without doubt its versatility and offroad capabilities. Developed by teams in Australia and Europe, the premium pick-up is being produced in future in South Africa.

It will make its dé but in 2022 and be available to order in the first few markets.

4

LATEST VIDEOS

DEC 21 - JAN 22

NEW ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL

THIS

is an Isuzu D-Max Double-Cab X-Rider

HERE OTHER VIDEOS

is where you can watch our review of this brute

Timed 0-100km/h acceleration runs, digital instrument demonstrations, roof mechanism operation and many more!

FIAT 500 Dolce Vita acceleration

MERCEDES-BENZ GLA Review

FORD Everest Sport acceleration

HYUNDAI Kona CVT acceleration

TOYOTA C-HR 1.2T acceleration

NISSAN Magnite 1.0T acceleration

REVIEWE Volvo XC40

ACCELERATION BR-V vs. HR-V

OLDwebsite this digizine might be much cooler but we’re still mighty proud of our Namibian automotive portal called

www.namwheels.com featuring news, reviews, tips, lists, launch reports, historic articles, wiki, comparisons, videos & local stories

1,700+ ARTICLES

TIPS & LISTS

DEC 21 - JAN 22

the NamWheels

top5

Welcome to a regular NamWheels feature: our top 5 car-related list.

You may already be at the coast and relaxing by the sea with your loved ones but we thought it wise to disperse some extra advice about long distance driving.

Whether you’re a seasoned long road pilot or completely new to the task of stringing far-away Namibian dorpies together, we’re here to help you with some handy tips.

Feel free to send us your comments or feedback: info@namwheels.com

LONG DISTANCE DRIVING TIPS PREPARE YOUR RIDE

This is in first place for an obvious reason: if your car isn’t working properly, there’s a good chance that it won’t bring you to your destination.

Worse still, if something breaks along the way, you could suddenly be in real trouble or become a road

hazard to other motorists. Your best bet is to check all components of your car carefully before setting off... better still, have any questionable items fixed in good time as some businesses may shut down or be extremely busy during the festive season.

PREPARE YOURSELF

Wait, what? Like an oil change or new tyres?

Of course not, what we mean by this is that you should be at your best when you swing yourself behind the wheel of your vehicle. Make sure that you are well rested, hydrated and fed.

Which, by the way, is another consideration for those really long drives: padkos!

Water keeps you fresh, carbonated or energy cans offer a temporary boost while snacks are always welcome when the road is long.

PLAN AND LOOK AHEAD

Even if your route is very familiar to you, it doesn’t hurt to check traffic reports or online maps for potential troubles. It’s very common for traffic to slow down around this time of year, especially if there are road blocks or accidents along the way.

With that in mind, also ensure that your vehicle is properly registered and the license is up to date.

If you need to stop overnight, it’s best to make a booking well ahead of time while also ensuring that your vehicle is parked in a safe place!

STOP AND REST

Most people don’t realise that they are tired and need a little break, especially when they settle into the rhythm of a long and boring road.

Tell-tale signs that you might need to stop for a rest are a tired neck, inability to focus or - spoiler

alert - constant yawning. It’s absolutely vital that you stop when these first symptoms appear, and in most cases you don’t need to stop for more than a few minutes to stretch and freshen up.

If that doesn’t help, pull over and sleep.

TAKE IT EASY

As already mentioned above, the roads tend to be very busy around the festive season so there’s no point in racing or speeding to your destination.

In our experience, pushy drivers never really get very far ahead when the traffic is heavy, at best

they will get to the seaside village a few minutes before you do.

Is that really worth it? A few minutes? They have more stress, use more fuel and annoy most other road users. We suggest you just take it easy.

EMERGENCY RESPONSE Should your vehicle break down or - heaven forbid - you are in an accident, immediately notify the authorities and check on other folks who may have been involved in the incident.

For this reason it’s always best to keep your mobile phone charged and carry an up-to-date first aid kit in your car.

DISCLAIMER

We mean well by helping you with the upkeep of your vehicle but this information is given without guarantees nor can we be held responsible for any unfortunate incidents arising from its use.

DRIVING ETIQUETTE ON THE

LONG ROAD TURN ON YOUR LIGHTS STICK TO SPEED LIMITS SIGNAL YOUR INTENTIONS RESPECT OTHER DRIVERS DON’T OVERLOAD YOUR CAR OVERTAKE ONLY IF IT’S SAFE WATCH OUT FOR ANIMALS

Ad Space FOR SALE

SPRINT REVIEW

DEC 21 - JAN 22

JAC T8 2.0 CTi Text & Images: Karl-Heinz Eisenberg

Allow me to introduce JAC. No this isn’t my latest better half, also not some weird American guy. This is a bakkie, and it’s here to take the space that the NP300 left, except it’s better than the NP300 in every single way.

For this review, I took a trip to Sossusvlei, which is some very dry place in the south of Namibia, probably the same place my humor originated from.

This trip gave me a great overall impression of the JAC, how it handles, performs and how bakkie it really is. In order to see how bakkie this JAC is, I have compiled a few categories: 1) Looks. The JAC T8 is de initely one of the better looking bakkies out there, the 4x4 comes standard with nice thicc black arches, rollbar and an unnecessarily large grille... which is cool.

It shares a lot of its visual traits with the American Ram 1500, meaning you cannot really fault its design much. I would go as far to say, after the new Ford Ranger, this is probably the best-looking bakkie in its segment.

4) Is it better than a Hilux? Being better than a Hilux isn't much of an achievement these days, so yes.

5) Quality. JAC, which is short for Jianghuai Automobile Co., Ltd. is as the name would suggest, rather Chinese. The mechanical and exterior build quality seems great, it doesn't sound tinny, drives solid, and big names like Bosch and Cummins are found under the bonnet. The interior however is not very re ined, though it is practical and functional.

6) Value for money. This is where the JAC shines, as this T8 starts at N$ 430 000.

Compare this too a very speci ic Japanese bakkie which costs double, with all the same features. This makes the JAC very dif icult not to justify.

7) Can I boer with it? That's not a good idea.

The JAC, just like most other pickups, is a leisure vehicle. It doesn't have the loading or towing abilities that a Mahindra or Land Cruiser has. But, the JAC is great for driving to the farm, and doing some medium duty work on a weekend.

2) Practicality. It's dif icult to praise the JAC in the segment of practicality, since most bakkies do the same job, are similarly practical, can load your mother-in-law, drive up pavements and take your kiddos to school.

So, to sum it all up, should you buy one?

3) Will a Karen drive it? No, I asked my mum, and she said no.

Well, if your fragile ego can handle not driving a Toyota… Why not give it a try?

8

SAFETY

OCT-NOV 2021

HOW TO DRIVE ON A

DIRT ROAD

Although there are many variables to driving on loose ground, we wanted to at least touch on the basics of these dusty tracks while also offering some reminders in terms of dirt road use and safety preparations.

THE BASICS

A close relative of mine one covered the 365km from Swakop to Windhoek in just one hour and fifty-five minutes.

Crazy, hey? What makes this highly illegal stunt even more unbelievable is that it was on the return (or uphill) leg, performed in a 1960's Mercedes sedan and - here comes the clincher in the early seventies when all those roads were still dirt.

Our entire team at NamWheels cannot stress enough how reckless and suicidal such driving is, even in today’s safer vehicles and (much) better road surfaces!

However, our beautiful country still has a vast expanse of dirt roads on offer so we thought we would dispense some logical advice to those who haven’t braved these sandy streets yet...

WHEN IN DOUBT...

Take it slow. The biggest risk on a dirt road is loss of control, which can often lead to crashes or roll-overs; with disastrous consequences.

Unless you are highly experienced in terms of car control AND driving on slippery surfaces, we highly recommend you stick to the posted speed limit or slow down to a pace where you feel comfortable at the wheel.

Remember, better late than never!

EASY DOES IT Again, you want to minimise the risk of sliding or spinning out of control so be gentle with the steering and pedals. Sudden bursts of speed, hard shifts or badly timed brake applications can quickly see your vehicle slide off the road.

PICK YOUR RHYTHM Most Namibian dirt roads eventually develop a “sinkplaat” (corrugated) surface which is an endless series of bumps in the road; brought about by the speed and frequency of vehicles before yours.

Believe it or not, the best antidote for these is to find their frequency and stick to it. Thankfully it is usually a speed at which large/r vehicles travel so in most cases you’ll need to cruise at or below the recommended speed limit.

PLAN AHEAD Check your vehicle - especially the tyres and suspension - before you head for dirt roads.

Once you’ve settled into a comfortable rhythm, be sure to look ahead and anticipate dangers around bends or over steep rises.

Allow for extra braking time if your vehicle is very heavy!

Make sure your vehicle is ready for the punishment of a dry and dusty street, especially the wheels and suspension.

Try to drive in a smooth, gentle fashion to avoid unsettling the vehicle and causing a spin.

Rather drive a bit slower than you normally would, especially if you are not familiar with the road.

Look and plan ahead.

Your vehicle needs more time and space to stop; even more so when it is heavily laden or the road is very slippery.

Be extra cautious around bends or at steep/blind rises in the road.

DON’T

DRINK

& DRIVE

10

SPRINT REVIEW

Ford

DEC 21 - JAN 22

Text: Hanjo Stier Images: Franco Theron

Ranger Sport What are the most complicated things on the planet? Easy. Rocket Science, Quantum Physics, Nuclear Fission, and the Ford Ranger model line-up. In that order.

You should know: Honestly. When we took delivery of this Ranger XL doublecab I though “Oh, let me quickly check online which model this is…” only to be greeted by page after page, list upon list, of what appeared to be, like, in inite combinations of a double-cab Ranger.

And that's just the 2.2L model…

More info: Ford S.A. was kind enough to leave a spec sheet in the cubby hole so it turns out that we had ye olde 2.2 TDCi underfoot… more precisely, a 2021 Ford Ranger 2.2 TDCi XL Sport. Four by Four.

Double Cab. 6AT. As with our recent test of an Everest, “Sport” merely means that they took a click-click spray can to all its former shiny bits.

What else? The grill, the mirrors, any bumper trim and *insert heavily annoyed sigh here* the alloy wheels have been turned darker than the pit of night.

The devil's bedding. The bottomless despair of a broken soul.

Why? Because, apparently, some of us equate black with being cool or sporty.

When in reality, it just gets dirty really quickly.

Why you shouldn't: Bakkies get dirty.

Really quickly. So, unless you want to buy this bakkie to pose around town with, we strongly recommend purchasing one of the other 2,395 Ranger models in a more sensible colour with normal and slightly less sinister accoutrements.

Single, Super or Double Cab. Manual or Auto. Your choice!

Why you should: Because the Ranger is quickly becoming an equally popular choice to the evergreen Toyota Hilux, not just for its myriad of variations, but also because it's backed up by an impressive number of dealers. The manufacturer also doesn't skimp on speci ications…

Some highlights include a full ESP vehicle stability system with roll-over mitigation, hill start (and decent) assist, trailer sway control, rear diff lock, plus

some practical goodies like Bluetooth, mud- laps and a tow-bar. Optional extras itted to this vehicle were the big Ford SYNC media system, shiny paint, side steps and rubberised load area.

This model currently retails for roughly 565,000 bucks and comes with a 4year/120,000km warranty.

FULL SPEC SHEET 2,198cc i-4 Turbo-diesel Engine: 6-speed Auto, 4WD Drive Train: 118kW Max. power 385Nm Max. torque: 7.2L/100km* Avg consumption: No claim 0-100km/h: R541,900 List Price: * manufacturer claims

WATCH SIMILAR ACCELERATION & BRAKING TESTS HERE

11

SPRINT REVIEW

Mitsubishi

DEC 21 - JAN 22

Eclipse Cross Text: Hanjo Stier Images: Nico Boshoff

What do the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, Mercedes Sports-Coupé, recent Honda Civic and a bunch of Citroëns have in common?

You should know: The split-glass rear hatch. All of the above-mentioned vehicles (and probably a few more) were designed with beautifully sloping rear quarters which gave them a sexy silhouette but turned out be a complete 'mare to reproduce in the real world, i.e. with metal, plastic and glass.

Which is why, with very few exceptions, all of them started off with a two-piece tailgate design… that pretty much eliminates any rear visibility. And almost all of them had a mid-life facelift which aimed at ixing said problem.

Mitsubishi's Eclipse Cross compactcrossover SUV is no exception, for it now has a sensible rear glass setup.

More information: It gets even more bizarre when you consider this trendy pavement hopper's name: Eclipse Cross.

The original Eclipse was a compact sports car and only shares the Mitsu badge with this front-wheel drive SUV. Elsewhere in the world, they call this stylish crossover an Outlander Sport.

Why you shouldn't: Well, the good news is that the offending split rear window is now gone, plus this car got some of the contemporary Mitsubishi style added to its face. The bad news is that, apparently, this 1.5L turbo-petrol engine cannot be ordered in Namibia so your only choice is a 2L petrol; both with dreaded CVT’s (continuously variable transmission).

Why you should: Like other CVT's nowadays, the one in our dark grey test car did its utmost to simulate gear changes and therefore avoid the wrath of self-proclaimed petrol-heads. Give it the beans and it does a fairly decent gear changing impersonation.

The 2.0 model we tested in 2018 took a respectable 10.92 seconds to hit 100.

Also, some key speci ications I'd like to mention include 180mm of ground clearance, average fuel use of about 8L/100km from the 63L tank, a 5.3m turning radius, seven airbags, keyless operating system and plenty of modern safety aids!

What else? Mitsubishi includes a few other sensible items with each purchase, most notably a 3-year or 100,000km warranty with ive years of roadside assistance and a 5-year/90,000km service plan.

It's stylish, fairly roomy and comfy, and now comes with a rear window you can see out of!

FULL SPEC SHEET 1.5L i-4 Turbo-petrol Engine: 8-step CVT, FWD Drive Train: 110kW Max. power 250Nm Max. torque: 7.7L/100km* Avg consumption: 9.06 seconds 0-100km/h: From R500,000 List Price: * manufacturer claims

WATCH THE ACCELERATION & BRAKING TESTS HERE

12

REVIEW

Text: Hanjo Stier Images: Franco Theron

DEC 21 - JAN 22

Creta

Hyundai

This recently launched, second generation of the Hyundai Creta always makes me think of the animated movie “Cars”. Why? Because the animators put each automobile's eyes in the windscreen when plainly – they should be the headlights!

The reason I mention this is that, in my twisted little mind, most vehicles have a facial appearance with two headlights for eyes, some sort of grill as a nose and a bumper that clearly represents a mouth.

Even though some bumpers now look like bottom feeders and radiator grills are taking on ridiculous proportions…

This new Creta isn't the only car that gives my facial recognition brain a mild epileptic it. Same applies to the Nissan Juke, Fiat Multipla and various Ssang-Yongs because they possess more headlights than I require for my human face facsimiles. Which ones are the real eyes… the thin top ones or those dopey fat bottom ones?

At this point I shall stop my silly design comparisons because that's as far as my troubles with the Creta's looks go. Other people's? Oh dear. Oh deary me. At least half the peeps who chatted to me during my few days' tenure with this dark blue press car exclaimed some sort of hatred for its styling.

“Butt-ugly”, “K@k-ugly” and other doublebarrel uglies were thrown at this new Korean creation with reckless abandon. I certainly wouldn't go that far, especially because the previous generation Creta was a bit of a wall lower. A plain Jane. So much so that most people (including my colleagues) can't even recall what it looked like.

Hyundai must've realised this and cracked the whip in their design studio. “Oh yeah?

Watch this!” is what they probably replied shortly before penning this, uhh, challenging creation. Again, I like it. There's no danger of losing this in a parking lot, or your kid getting into the wrong white Japanese 4x4 at school.

Hyundai South Africa's PR team, whose mails appear to only work one way, sent us this striking blue specimen with high-contrast cream and black interior. Have I mentioned that I liked it? This was to be expected though, as I just recently purchased a metallic blue sports car with a cream and black interior…

As for driving the new Creta, you best check with your nearest dealer about the various models on offer because this range offers an unprecedented four engine choices between almost as many spec levels! Our test car's 1.5L in-line 4-cylinder petrol promised up to 84kW or 143Nm and 0-100 in 12 seconds.

Trying not to let my personal tastes get in the way too much, I vowed to give the Creta a thorough look or three on your behalf. The irst thing to strike me was the central dashboard's slightly angled but minimalist layout. The media system seems better integrated and large enough to operate easily.

We performed our usual acceleration and brake tests with this vehicle to record a bestout-of-four 0-100km/h time of 10.83 seconds and a once-off stop from 100 in 3.06 seconds and 42.75 metres. These are all perfectly acceptable values for this class of vehicle but there is one more thing I need to mention…

The next items I noticed, besides the delicious slather of cream trim that runs around most of the cabin, were the thin blue LED lighting strips, bright white dials, cream seat piping, bizarre silver inlays in the multi-function steering wheel, diamond-pattern seat quilting, as well as stylised vertical air vents on the far extremes of the dashboard. By comparison, the old Creta's interior was an absolute snooze fest.

To bring us neatly back to my initial ramblings about this car's looks and how some people immediately hated it, the same could apply to this model's gearbox. Hyundai did their best to disguise its wicked ways by programming simulated gear changes into all proceedings but there's no denying that this is [ insert horror violin jabs here ] a CVT.

Any bad bits? Well, I wouldn't call them terrible, but the upper dashboard trim and various door panels seemed cheap. It's the kind of limsy plastic which has also made a shocking appearance in cheaper VW;s lately.

And, being a stylish new crossover, it has fairly large rear ¾ blind spots.

Help is at hand though, in the shape of a reverse camera. Other goodies include the usual power this and auto that, Apple thingy and Android bobby, multiple driver aids and airbags, as well as plenty of numbers to impress your friends: 7-year warranty, 17inch alloys, 190mm ground clearance, 50L tank and 430 to 1,400L of boot volume.

The good news is that – no matter what I tried – this car never emitted that dreaded, constant-redline, CVT scream. This gearbox really has been sat down and given a stern talking to by its makers, hence it will always pretend to change gears; even on full throttle.

Sometimes it hangs a bit in the mid-range, but never long enough to get annoying.

In summary, the Hyundai Creta has been turned from a grey librarian to a lime luminescent raver. Not everyone will appreciate this metamorphosis but those who do will ind plenty of models with a decent value proposition, comfy ride, good spec level, great warranty, and enough space for most families.