NamWheels Edition 29

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NamWheels www.namwheels.com

NAMIBIAN MOTORING FOCUS

EDITION 29 | APR - MAY 2022

A GALIMOTO MEDIA PRODUCT

Jolion Haval

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

APR - MAY 2022

Pg 2 You’re looking at it Pg 3 News & New Models

...is a motoring portal for petrolheads, by petrolheads, in our beautiful Land of the Brave, Namibia. Besides this bimonthly digital publication, you can also find lots of car goodness on our website www.namwheels.com as well as our social media pages (see below).

Pg 4 Our latest Youtube Videos Pg 5 NamWheels top5 List Pg 7 Review: Haval Jolion Pg 8 Safety: When to replace shocks Pg 9 Review: Mercedes-Benz E300 Coupé

We aim to bring you a fairly regular kick of all things automotive which should be exciting for viewers, beneficial to advertisers and something which all Namibian car lovers can be proud of.

Pg 10 Launch Report: Hyundai Staria MultiCab Pg 11 Sprint Review: Isuzu D-Max X-Rider Pg 12 Long Term Test: Suzuki Swift Pg 14 Classifieds

Quite a bit of copyright and regional stuff may apply. Unless otherwise stated, reviews and performance tests are conducted in South Africa at (or near) sea level while all prices and specifications were correct at the time of being published.

Please confirm local availability and pricing with your nearest Namibian dealer! Although we take great care during publishing, NamWheels cannot be held liable for the results of incorrect data or expired information.

Publisher: Galimoto Media cc Distribution: The Interwebs Editor: Hanjo Stier Sub: Agent M Design: 825 Media Contributors: Franco Theron Nico Boshoff Karl-Heinz Eisenberg Advertising Enquiries: Phone or Message 081 348 3348 Email info@namwheels.com Or visit www.namwheels.com NamWheels & Galimoto Media NamWheels & GalimotoMedia NamWheels & GalimotoMedia Galimoto Media

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

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NEWS

APR - MAY 2022

NEWS AND...

SUZUKI SALES ARE STILL INCREASING

CHERY DELIVERS WATER & BLANKETS

NAMWHEELS CAR OF THE YEAR 2021

FORD PLANT TURNS ON SOLAR POWER

TOYOTA STILL LEADS THE S.A. MARKET

Suzuki Auto South Africa reported 3,696 new vehicle deliveries to South African customers and a further five sales to regional customers for a total of 3,701 sales in the short month of April.

This figure is the highest ever monthly total for Suzuki and the fourth consecutive month that it has broken its overall sales record.

NAAMSA further reports that the Suzuki Swift was South Africa's best-selling passenger vehicle in April.

Suzuki’s dealer network and its corporate and rental sales team sold a combined 1,621 Swift units, nearly 100 units more than any other brand and model.

With the stellar month of April 2022 completed, Suzuki is now firmly entrenched in the number three position in overall sales, behind Toyota (including Lexus and Hino) and Volkswagen (including sales of Audi).

A large delivery truck filled to the brim with containers of water, blankets and food have left the Chery South Africa head office in Johannesburg, bound for KwaZulu-Natal.

The shipment of water in portable containers, blankets and food will be delivered at various Chery dealerships in Durban and surrounds. From here, the dealers will use their own delivery infrastructure, staff and even customers to deliver water to communities in need, as well as old age homes and clinics.

“This is the first of hopefully many such initiatives by Chery, its dealers and staff.

We hope it acts as a small but powerful gesture of our intention to be a very active and supportive part of the society in every town and city that we are active in and of civil society as a whole in South Africa,” says Tony Liu, Executive Deputy General Manager of Chery South Africa.

Galimoto Media, publisher of NamWheels, is preparing the annual NamWheels Car of the Year competition for every vehicle which the publication reviewed last year (2021).

The team of journalists at Galimoto Media have selected a list of eight finalist from the dozens of vehicles which were lent to them durin the course of last year. The finalists (in alphabetical order) are: • Fiat 500 Dolcevita AMT • Honda Fit Executive • Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2 • Land Rover Defender 110 • Mercedes-AMG E53 Coupe • Suzuki Vitara Brezza 1.5 GLX • VW T-Roc 2.0TSi R-Line • Volvo XC60 D5 The public is encouraged to keep an eye on the various social media platforms of NamWheels to cast their vote in this year’s competition, as they have the final say about which vehicle is crowned.

As an added bonus, there will be a hamper giveaway for one lucky participant.

Ford's Silverton Assembly Plant in Pretoria S.A., which produces the Ranger pickup for domestic sales and exports to over 100 global markets, flipped the switch and is now sourcing 35% of its electricity emissions-free, directly from the sun.

This pioneering project is the results from a long-term power purchase agreement with SolarAfrica, with the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) carports for 3 610 vehicles at the Silverton plant.

The large-scale solar array uses a total of 30 226 solar panels to generate 13.5MW of emissions-free electricity.

This makes it one of the largest solar carports in the world, and a ground-breaking renewable energy project for the South African automotive industry. It also supports Ford Motor Company's ambitious global targets to use 100% carbon-free electricity across its manufacturing operations by 2035.

Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) has, for the first time this year, recorded monthly sales of less than 10,000 units.

Still reeling from the flood disaster at its Prospecton Plant in Durban, TSAM kept its sales leadership in April – posting 8,952 units.

In the LCV segment, Hilux was once again the top performer while Corolla Cross with 1,421 sales made a strong showing in the Passenger segment; for a total of 4,486 units. Other top performers include Urban Cruiser (613), Fortuner (618) and Starlet (510).

On the luxury front, Lexus sold 17 ES models, and 12 RX units.

Hino trucks sold a total of 214 units in April.

On the LCV front, Hilux lead the way with 2,778 units including 1,463 Double Cabs, 356 Xtra Cabs and 969 Single Cabs. Hiace posted 1,084 models, while Land Cruiser Pick-Up registered 205 sales.

In total, Toyota retailed 4,252 LCVs.

NEW MODELS 40 YEARS OF OPEL CORSA

NEXT-GEN FORD RANGER IS SMART

Rü sselsheim, Germany.

2022 is an anniversary year for Opel: the company has been making innovations affordable for everyone for 160 years, and at the same time one of its biggest sellers is celebrating a 40th birthday.

The Opel Corsa revolutionised the small car class with its premiere in 1982 and today, in its sixth generation, is more in demand than ever.

Last year, the current Corsa was the most popular small car in Germany and the bestselling car in the UK. The battery-electric Opel Corsa-e won the “Golden Steering Wheel 2020”1, now already accounts for around onequarter of Corsa sales and is successfully competing in motorsport as an emissionsfree rally car.

Ford knows that customers want a pickup with a smart, functional interior with a high-level of well-integrated technology. And the next-gen Ranger is the smartest Ranger yet, with an enhanced user experience that means new owners can now transition seamlessly from home or work to their vehicle.

From the new-generation SYNC®i 4A infotainment system to large screens that behave like smartphones, and digital instrument displays replacing analog clusters, the next-gen Ranger with its customer-focused technology pushes the boundaries of what a smart pick-up truck should be.

Visit our Facebook page for photos and videos of the ZA launch!

NEW VOLKSWAGEN SUV ON THE WAY

NEW SUZUKI BALENO DEBUTS AT NAMPO

NEW LEXUS RX TO BE LAUNCHED ONLINE

The new Volkswagen Taigo (pronounced 'tie-go') will join the Volkswagen T SUV model range in South Africa from June 2022.

Taigo, which is manufactured in Pamplona, Spain, will join the T-Cross and T-Roc as VW's trio of compact SUVs in the A0 SUV segment. Volkswagen's T SUV range currently consists of five models namely the TCross, T-Roc, Tiguan, Tiguan Allspace and Touareg.

At the time of publishing this edition, NamWheels could not source any information about availability or specifications for our local market.

Visitors to this year's Nampo Harvest Day in South Africa are in for a treat when they visit the Suzuki Auto stand as the brand will reveal the allnew Baleno to the public at NAMPO. Baleno will take pride of place alongside a near-complete range of Suzuki vehicles and an exciting selection of motorcycles and boating lifestyle products.

The new Baleno arrives at Nampo fresh from its global reveal at the end of February.

It is scheduled to arrive on South African (and Namibian) showroom floors soon.

Lexus will unveil the all-new RX on Wednesday, 1 June 2022. Details of this all-new RX, the pioneer of luxury SUV’s which has undergone a complete renewal, will be announced.

The new Lexus RX model will be launched via a digital programme at 9:00 am Japan Time (2:00 am South Africa).

Prior to the announcements, a photo portion of the design is revealed.

The following URL will be open to the public as of 18 May 2022: https://discoverlexus.com/re veal

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LATEST VIDEOS

APR - MAY 2022

THIS

NEW ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL

is a new Land Rover Defender 110 D300 X

HERE OTHER VIDEOS

is where you can watch our quick Video Review...

Timed 0-100km/h acceleration runs, random tests, silly drag races and many more automotively-flavoured clips!

ANTI-REVIEW Audi Q7

ACCELERATION Toyota Urban Cruiser

DRAG RACE Mirage vs. Rio

ACCELERATION Suzuki Swift 1.2 GLX

ACCELERATION Hyundai Santa Fe

ANTI-REVIEW Ford Ranger Thunder

ACCELERATION Honda WR-V

ANTI-REVIEW Mitsubishi Pajero Sport

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

the NamWheels

APR - MAY 2022

top5

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

We wanted to do something exciting for this edition so here are the five fastest vehicles we’ve ever tested, on their sprint time from 0 to 100km/h using our Racelogic PerformanceBox at (or near) sea level. We tend to do a few runs and publish the best time.

FASTEST 0-100KM/H TIMES MERCEDESAMG E63 S

3.4

MERCEDESAMG GT S

3.42

-0.02

Although the two-door AMG GT is more exotic and to post a respectable time of 3.64 seconds; slightly expensive than the four-door monster above, this faster than its claimed time of 3.8.

2016 GT S had less power (375kW) and only half DFRN. CLAIM TESTED the driven wheels to get off the line.

Its weight advantage and sharper handling helped

3.8

Please don’t ask where the Porsches or Bugattis are at... we only test vehicles which are officially lent to us.

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

At very the top of our list, although not by a system, this large sedan monstered the sprint in considerable margin, sits the big Mercedes-AMG just 3.42 seconds. AMG claims 3.4.

E-Class we tested back in 2018.

DFRN. CLAIM TESTED With a 450kW twin-turbo-charged V8 engine, 9speed DCT and an incredibly clever 4-wheel drive

3.64

+0.16

JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE TRACKHAWK

This crazy Jeep will forever be carved into our weight of, like, 900 tons. Jeep claims 0-100km/h in memories because, although it can launch just as 3.7 seconds and we almost matched that... quickly as the AMG’s, that instant supercharger DFRN. CLAIM TESTED punch of 522kW feels way more ferocious.

That might also have something to do with its kerb

AUDI TT RS

A fellow motoring journalist from Durban once as to claim that it’s faster than the claimed 0-100 argued with us that the TT RS will out-drag any time of 3.7 seconds. Well, it isn’t... and every car we could think of.

DFRN. CLAIM TESTED When we told him about the inhabitants of this list, his reply was flippantly confident, going so far

3.7

3.78

-0.08

SPEED WARNING 0-100km/h sprint times are great to measure and compare vehicle performance. In the real world, it also gives you an indication of how quickly a car could merge onto a busy highway; or get away from a dangerous situation.

PLEASE don’t race or speed on our nation’s roads, take your race ambitions to the track!

DISCLAIMER

3.7

ALFA ROMEO STELVIO QV

3.79

-0.09

The crazy twin-turbo V6 Stelvio Quadifoglio Q4 onto the road. Alfa claims a sub-4 second sprint to (or QV, to us) surprised us all with its insane fire 100km/h but our best time was slightly slower. power and twitchy handling!

DFRN. CLAIM TESTED Like most cars mentioned here, it’s also equipped with intelligent all-wheel drive to put up to 375kW

3.8

4.03

-0.23

We mean well by providing some interesting information but, as always, it is given without guarantees nor can we be held responsible for any unfortunate incidents arising from its use.

TIPS FOR BETTER

PERFORMANCE WITHOUT INSTALLING A STONKING GREAT TURBO-CHARGER

REGULAR SERVICING & MAINTENANCE USE THE BEST FUEL & LUBRICANTS REMOVE UNNECESSARY WEIGHT ASK OTHER OWNERS FOR TIPS FIT THE BEST TYRES TAKE AN ADVANCED DRIVING COURSE

Ad Space FOR SALE

REVIEW

7

APR - MAY 2022

HAVAL Jolion

VIEW THE ACCELERATION & BRAKE TESTS HERE

The Haval H6 which we recently tested took the Southern-African market by storm. As a motoring journalist, it became a bit of a draining topic in every conversation. So big was the demand, that the media itself struggled to get hold of the car for some test drives. And then came the Jolion…

Text: Franco Theron Images: Nico Boshoff

Being the smaller sibling of the H6, the Jolion comes with an even better price tag and what many would regard as better looks. While I don’t necessarily agree with the latter, I do understand the appeal of the Jolion as it makes absolute sense within our current market.

As of January 2022, the Jolion is the 10th highest selling car in South Africa, considering that less than a year ago, the Jolion did not yet exist, never mind Average Joe knowing that a car brand like ‘Haval’ existed.

At this point, Haval does not really need any media coverage as the ‘word of mouth’ method is creating its current success.

Think about this. You can purchase an entrylevel Jolion for under R300 000. Currently, that is unheard off, except if you purchase an SUV which is actually a watered-down hatchback on stilts. Off course you will also not get the latest and greatest technologies inside, as this will only be added as an optional extra or at a higher price tag.

The Jolion provides all of this, even in its entry-level model. Most small hatchbacks at this moment prove to be above the R300 000 mark. Our Super Luxury Auto model for instance, sells at R398, 900. Taking into account that this vehicle has an abundance of space and legroom, all the latest gimmicks, as well as a bit of curb height, completely throws the market on its head.

At exactly 4472mm long, 1814mm wide and 1619mm high, the Jolion is even larger than a VW T-Cross, Kia Sportage or even a Hyundai Tucson. In our opinion, the Jolion provides some of the most spacious legroom in this segment, added to 337 litres of boot capacity, which can evolve into 1333 litres with the rear seats folded down.

The Jolion also provides better value for money than its much more expensive German counterparts. Inside, there is a nice big 12.3 inch loating touchscreen infotainment system, compatible with Apple CarPlay.

Passengers will also ind four USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity, voice activation as well as wireless charging. Furthermore, the Super Luxury model is equipped with a panoramic sunroof, a 10.3 inch instrument cluster, adaptive cruise control, multifunctional steering wheel, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring and 360 degree cameras (including reverse view).

It’s also worth paying extra for the Super Luxury model as it is packed with safety features such as six airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, hill assist, rearcross traf ic alert and tyre pressure monitors.

The overall quality inside might lag slightly behind the excellence of the H6, but it is still a well- inished cabin. The interior does not hint towards cheap and rattling plastics as many other competitors in this segment might use.

Rather, the material’s hard-wearing and solid.

It still feels like a luxurious car inside.

Power comes from a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine, capable of 105kW and 210Nm, combined with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. Power delivery is adequate and overtaking can be done with ease. Similarly, the steering is also irm and controlled.

The engine is, however, less responsive in its Eco setting, but luckily the Standand, Sport and Snow ield drive modes provide no such hiccups.

The only negative remark which we could make after a whole week of testing was towards the fairly hefty fuel consumption of 9.2 litres per 100km.

Our main aim in testing the Jolion was to irstly ind any indications as to why the Jolion might be so cost-effective. Secondly, we wanted to ind out why the Jolion is quite literally “ lying” out of the showrooms.

We might have failed miserably in our quest to answer the irst question, but we did succeed in inding the answer for the second.

In such a demanding vehicle market with constantly rising prices, the Jolion is an obvious champion as it now forces the competitors to stop in their tracks to see how they can improve even further, at a much better price.

8

SAFETY

WHEN TO REPLACE

SHOCKS Shock absorbers (or dampers) are a vital component of most vehicle suspension systems, and while a car may still drive with broken shocks, it can have very dangerous consequences.

For the sake of this article we’ll stick with the most popular form of shock absorber: the gasfilled damper. We will probably cover air ride, leaf springs and other systems at another time.

BOUNCE Press down firmly on a front corner of your car and gauge its reaction: ideally it should bounce back once and settle down immediately. If you can observe multiple sways or bounces, the shocks are probably due for replacement.

This is a popular test because most car owners / drivers don’t notice the gradual decay in ride or handling of their car; because it happens very slowly over a long period of time.

Still, if you notice your car leaning or bouncing more than it should (while driving) it doesn’t hurt to have the shocks checked by qualified experts.

VISIBLE DAMAGE The most common sign of a damaged shock is leaking - check for an oily residue on the shock itself or on its bottom mounting. Once the shock leaks, it no longer functions as it was intended to and should be replaced as soon as possible.

APR - MAY 2022

THE BASICS • “Shock” is short for shock absorber or shock damper, and forms part of modern vehicle suspension.

• The “shock” usually sits inside a large metal spring: this “coil over damper” setup is the most popular form of car suspension.

• 4x4, heavy-duty and commercial vehicles sometimes have independent or multiple shock absorbers.

AGE Some manufacturers promise extremely long shock absorber life spans but if yours have lost all their markings, stickers and possibly base colour, it may be wise to have them tested.

EXTRA LOAD Don’t torture the poor things. If you’re hauling heavy loads or have modified your vehicle, you may need better shocks.

• Luxury vehicles are often equipped with “air ride” which uses air bellows or bags instead of springs.

• Steering mechanism also tend to have a shock, to cushion any hard blows.

9

REVIEW

APR - MAY 2022

VIEW THE ACCELERATION & BRAKE TESTS HERE

Mercedes-Benz

Text: Hanjo Stier Images: Nico Boshoff

E300 Coupé AMG Line Meet the new Mercedes-Benz E300 Coupé or, as I like to call it, the ultimate automotive ying and yang.

Everything that is right and wrong with today's car world… is perfectly embodied in this automobile.

I don't know about you but I like to start with the sour bits and get to the sweet stuff later.

Bad news before good news. And I will also put up my hand immediately and proclaim that most of my negative observations are deeply rooted in a middle-aged desire to cling to the past; where everything was just better.

In my humble opinion, the interior is where they swayed more towards a new-age design because classy basics with modern tech have already been trademarked by Volvo. Nope, this Merc coupé screams modernity with its turbine air vents, acres of screens and more mood lighting than a bachelor's penthouse.

Did I type better? Apologies, I meant easier.

Same goes for the operation of its many gadgets, which my dear parents or uncle (who owned multiple Mercedes' between them) would simply recoil from in utter horror. Bless them, the Stuttgarters did their best by including a few shortcut keys or building a fairly intuitive infotainment system but Mutti just gave it a few blank stares…

20 years ago we didn't have keyless entry or start/stop systems, Android Bluetooth or active lane mitigation. The height of technology was remote central locking and maybe climate control. Nowadays you need a software degree to change the ventilation's temperature, never mind the direction.

Or, as in the case of this E300 two-door, careful voice commands or even touchier multi-zone steering wheel buttons. The operation of these phenomenal gadgets can be as irritating as it is amazing. Touching the wrong button at 120km/h is absolutely infuriating but getting the dashboard lady to phone home is wondrous witchcraft.

Right, grandpa. What else? The styling. Just take a look at this black beast in front of you. It looks chunky and complicated, yet with an understated aggression in its lowing proportions. See what I mean about ying and yang? Mercedes-Benz somehow managed to make this car look timelessly classy while still serving our desires for modern brashness.

Short of letting her drive, I really farmed her initial reactions for this review because they were surprisingly positive. Yes, she wasn't overly smitten with this vehicle's aggro looks but delighted in the automatic seat-belt butlers. Glossing over the tech fest, she found the window line too pinched but commended the great parking cameras.

that's where my critique stops instantly. This four pot makes up to 190kW or 370Nm, no thanks to modern technologies like high pressure injection, turbo-chargers and mild hybrid systems. This sort of ire power was reserved for the aforementioned big sixes or small V8's of my youth… except that they were slower, dirtier and much thirstier!

If driven very nicely, the maker claims an average of 7.3L/100km from this E300 Coupe's 66L tank. Mercedes-Benz alleges 0100km/h in 6.4 seconds and the obligatory limited top speed of 250km/h. Our best 0-100 attempt yielded a very impressive 6.14 seconds with plenty of aggression in all-out Sport+ mode. A single emergency brake stop simulation was over in a staggering 2.61 seconds and 35.81 metres.

Trust me, this is one of thee most amazing bits about this car: with nine ratios in a super-fast transmission, and north of 250 hp on tap, this car wipes the loor with any old Benz when it comes to speed, emissions or economy.

Longevity? Well, there's that lipside again…

Again, good and bad in one car. Then there's this vehicle's cutting-age power plant. Any self-respecting Mercedes grand tourer should at least have six or eight cylinders (in my book) yet this lashy newbie shows up with a puny 2-litre four pot.

I'd like to think that in 30 years we'll look back on this car and proclaim it to be simple and easy to live with. Because that's what we've always done and – EQ series incoming – probably will do for the foreseeable future.

A four banger! I'll quickly add that it obviously fails dismally in terms of aural satisfaction but

Each E300 is sold with a 2-year warranty and 5-year/100,000km service plan.

LAUNCH REPORT

10

APR - MAY 2022

Hyundai

Staria MultiCab Text: Hanjo Stier Images: Hyundai Automotive S.A.

“A game changer. And proper car of the year material!” These are the words of a respected peer who gave me a lift to the recent Hyundai Staria Multicab launch near Cape Town.

So, does that mean the Staria Multicab has vertical thrusters or hydrogen electric drive?

I'm afraid not, and much of everyone's favourable impression stems from this MPV (multi-purpose vehicle) design. Although some other people movers are quite stylish, Hyundai just knocked one out of the park.

And the city limits. And possibly the county line. While the two popular German vans jostle for sales positions with expensive trim lines and perfectly executed style, the new Hyundai Staria looks like a Star Trek prop. It's so unusual, so alien to look at, that it quite literally stops traf ic. And remember, it's not even a car, it's a van.

Most of my colleagues were so impressed by this Korean beast that they agreed with onlookers who suggested that such a futuristic model should be powered by electricity. We at NamWheels wouldn't bet a single cent against such future plans from Hyundai… there's certainly enough room for a spot of e-mobility.

Speaking of room, as is their want and way, Hyundai S.A. execs proudly shared some sales statistics and detailed market shares during their presentation. While MPV's are just a small slice of the pie, their numbers are on the rise. And the brand itself currently occupies about 10% of the entire ZA market. An enviable position!

But back to the Staria, which doesn't just rely on looks that can arrest a whole street at ifty paces. This “MultiCab” version obviously denotes the half-cargo version, which at irst

looked like a normal Staria with a double Euro pallet-friendly black box stuck in the back. On second thoughts, that's actually quite an apt description…

The cargo section looks like an open-ended, slightly rounded black canister with two swing doors and some bars in front of the windows. In front of that you'll ind the usual 3-seater row of seats while the very front has a separate driver and passenger seat; the predecessor H1's middle jump seat is gone.

For the record, the H1 Multicab sold almost 1000 times in southern Africa. Hyundai is conservatively aiming for around 1600 Starias (including Multicabs) for the 2022 model year.

This Staria cargo variant bene its from improvements like a stronger differential, HVAC sound deadening and a stiffer body with noise/vibration deadening foam inserts.

That older model's staid but hardy interior has also made way for a cockpit that wouldn't look out of place in a Citroen crossover.

Highlights include the 8-inch touchscreen media system, automatic climate control, wireless mobile phone charger and fully digital instruments, although I prefer the design of those in the normal Staria MPV. As for power, underneath that zany body you'll ind a sensible 2.2L 4-cylinder turbodiesel sending a respectable 130kW (at 3,800rpm) or pretty impressive 430Nm (from just 1,500rpm onwards) to the front wheels via a more ef icient 8-speed automatic gearbox which – hand on heart – we found

highly responsive and agreeably smooth during our launch test drive route.

For now, the Staria Multicab is only available as this 5-seater R2.2 front-wheel-drive automatic derivative.

The manufacturer claims a top speed of 185km/h, another respectable number for what is essentially a stylish bread box with 215/65R17 wheels. 0-100km/h should take around 12.5 seconds and I'll be all-too happy to test this claim when we receive a press vehicle near sea level in the near future.

More sensibility comes in the shape of an excellent turning radius, 1,070kg maximum payload, 750kg un-braked to 2.5 ton braked towing capacity, dual roof oddment trays, Apple and Android phone compatibility, blind spot and rear traf ic assist, 186mm ground clearance, generous 75L fuel tank and a very un-van-like drag coef icient of just 0.318 Cd. Hyundai S.A. claims average diesel use of 8.7L/100km and average CO2 emissions of 189g/km. Now consider this manufacturer's amazing warranty and service plan – both of which are transferable upon sale – and the price of R759,900 suddenly makes a lot of sense. That's a lot of metal for your money!

And best of all, next to their star client Transnet (who uses H1's and Starias to shuttle train drivers across South Africa), this new Multicab shouldn't just be considered as a versatile workhorse… you've probably seen in the accompanying pictures that it can also brighten up most of your chosen leisure-time activities.

11

SPRINT REVIEW

APR - MAY 2022

VIEW THE ACCELERATION & BRAKE TESTS HERE

Isuzu

Text: Hanjo Stier Images: Nico Boshoff

D-Max 250 X-Rider Are you thinking of buying a new double-cab bakkie? Well, you have my sincere and undivided sympathy.

You should know: These days, bakkie manufacturers try to cater for everyone's tastes so beside their single-cab, lat-bed, rear-wheel drive models, they also offer the bizarrelynamed king-cabs or super-cabs, as well as double cabs, four-wheel drive, Manual, Automatic, big engine, small engine, plus any and every special edition they can design stickers and accessories for.

More info: Isuzu is no different and – glossing over that whole new model which apparently just arrived – this generation of their rustic D-Max pickup trucks can be had in dozens and dozens of con igurations.

The one you're looking at here is a red 2021 Isuzu D-Max 250 Double Cab 4x4 X-Rider. Manual.

What else? If you found some newold stock, or a dealer demo, this model retails for around R595,000 and is powered by a rather noisy 2.5L 4-cylinder turbo-diesel with, umm, somewhat ponderous performance: 0-100km/h took us 13.6 seconds while – did you know this – the automatic version is half a second faster.

Why you shouldn't: Buying an example of the outgoing model isn't great for resale intentions and, as mentioned above, this is one of the more farm-bakkie-like double cabs out there.

The ride, handling, steering, power, cabin trim and key fob are all from a different time while its infotainment system is OK, I guess. Suf icient.

Why you should: Outgoing models are perfectly ripened and generally cheaper. There's also joy to be found in out-dated but simple(r) things, so if you don’t want lane warning or swoopy LED blinkers in your bakkie, I suggest you race down to your nearest Isuzu dealer immediately to bag yourself the last of these old but dependable dinosaurs!

FULL SPEC SHEET 2,499cc i-4 turbo-diesel Engine: Drive Train: 5-speed Manual, 4WD 100kW / 320Nm Power / Torque: 7.9L/100km* Avg consumption: 13.61 seconds 0-100km/h: No claim Top speed: R593,900 List Price: * manufacturer claims

LONG TERM TEST

12

APR - MAY 2022

Suzuki Swift VIEW THE

ACCELERATION & BRAKE TESTS

HERE

In our increasingly complicated and bewildering modern lifestyles, I ind more and more favour in simple things.

Easy stuff. There's a wonderful wholesomeness to a device that only does what it's supposed to, and thank Heavens we still get automobiles of such a type: like this Suzuki Swift.

Text: Hanjo Stier Images: Nico Boshoff Suzuki’s never been on the forefront of tech-laden glamour machines; and long may it be so. That’s also evident in their global presence and sales records, because they tend to ignore fast-paced irst-world chaos in favour of developing markets hungry for affordable, well-spec'd automobiles.

The local sales statistics can easily back this up.

With sensible cars at great prices, Suzuki Auto Southern Africa has no problems with moving metal; sometimes even saying a cheeky “howsit” to the top sales positions. If I had to open a new car dealership right now, Suzuki would be my choice.

Just a few moments behind the wheel of this topspec Swift GLX will con irm why, as will any of the cheerful dealers or PR staff I've met over the years. Suzuki products are priced right, they're easy to drive and simple to maintain, while their speci ication levels are generously thought out.

And yes, I'm including the S-Presso in this.

Yeah, sure, there are some low-rent textures in this Swift and it will never garner the street-cred of an aggro-looking space ship with triple-clutch hybrid drive and multi-zone mood lighting. Again, not Suzuki's market and, again, something that may not age as gracefully as a sensibly-styled runabout with trusted tech under the bonnet.

If you crave shiny trinkets and demand turbo DCT power, please look elsewhere.

That doesn't mean that our dark blue 2021 Swift GLX Manual long-term test car was devoid of doors and used paraf in as its primary power source; oh no. Just a few highlights of this little hatchback include keyless entry and start, full climate control, touch-screen media system, two airbags, ABS brakes with EBD, stability and traction control.

At the current retail price of about R225,000 for this model, you will struggle to ind a new alternative from competing manufacturers. Did I

mention the four power windows, power mirrors, multi-function adjustable steering wheel, 15-inch alloys, rear park sensors and reversing camera?

this can increase to almost 580L (split folding rear seats) or a generous 953L; to house a semidisassembled mountain bicycle.

Honestly, how do they keep the price so low?

Especially if you factor in a small service plan and an unbelievable ive years or 200,000km warranty.

Two hundred thousand! How's that for backing up what is essentially a winning product already?

Other numbers worth mentioning include the kerb weight of just 875kg, a parking-friendly length of 3.84 metres, its turning radius of just 9.6m and a ground clearance of about 145mm. Suzuki claims 0-100km/h in 12 seconds and a top speed of 170km/h; both of which are highly plausible.

I will concede that looks, features and power can be a huge selling point so someone looking for turbo-power at high altitudes will be disappointed by the linear but rev-hungry power delivery of this naturally-breathing 1.2L 4-cylinder petrol engine.

Its 61kW or 113Nm will struggle with steep inclines or heavy loads, although I took great delight in choosing the next shortest gear ratio and letting the motor sing to its 6250rpm redline. As a personal gripe, I found the rev limiter set too low – pretty much on the redline – and aurally boring as a monotonous hum.

And yes, I'll admit that one shouldn't abuse a car that way, but will lower it in defence of the spirited and fun driving style that this lil' Suzi encourages.

Steering and pedal feel is quite light, and there's quite a bit of lean from the semi-soft suspension or high tyre side-walls, yet this cheeky Swift is a joy to throw around corners.

Much like other Suzuki cars, the occasional full swoop of its tachometer has little in luence on fuel consumption. The Swift's maker claims just 4.9L/100km but that is – as always – a best-case scenario. We usually averaged mid sixes from the 37L tank but reckon that 5L per 100 is absolutely possible on a steady cruise.

And, just to prove that we aren't going to sugarcoat our entire experience with this car, the boot or cargo area is comparatively compact at just 268 litres. Throw out your rear passengers though and

In a inal effort to give you a fair review, I often noted a Suzuki-typical resistance when trying to engage reverse gear. Careless operators may even induce grinding noises… ditto for front wheel slip while pulling away. Some drivers bemoaned the high revving nature of this ive-speed manual gearbox, but Suzuki did that to keep its little engine on the boil at all times.

Personally, I'm not fond of the media system, primarily because it lacks a volume knob. Having said that, it follows the car's credo by being easy to fathom and simple to operate. That also goes for the climate control, which cooled this dark-blue car's cabin with ruthless ef iciency!

But more than that, and circling back to my initial point about Suzukis being so wholesome and simple, this little hatchback seamlessly slotted into the lives of three families during the Festive Season 2021. It carried spouses, kids, groceries, friends, bikes, grandparents, seaside holiday luggage and even an ailing old cat a few times.

And it did so perfectly, without putting a single wheel wrong. I know that is true of every “holiday car” we at Galimoto Media / NamWheels have been blessed with over the years, but living with this capable little Swift 1.2 GLX for a few weeks concreted my belief that it's the best entry-level hatchback money can buy.

You'd be mad to buy anything else!

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