ROAD TESTS

Mitsubishi Pajero Sport 2,4 D4 4x4

Ihad the opportunity to experience the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport on a very tough off-road 4x4 track and the satisfaction of winning the offroad racing challenge with my co-driver Adam Ford! Hell hath no fury like dust covered off-road enthusiasts! Most satisfying, I confess. The most notable change is the sophisticated car-like driving dynamics and a best-in-class 8-speed automatic transmission coupled to a marvellous highly responsive turbo diesel engine. A new Super Select 4-II 4WD system with advanced electronic assistance like Hill Descent Control and OffRoad Mode Control for superior traction is better than anything I have experienced yet. On steep embankments where you feel the car’s rear is about to forward-flip, the Pajero just quietly putters along while you just have to steer and stay calm. Once completed you step out like John Wayne and do a slight nod through slit eyes at your admiring audience! In 1933 Mitsubishi launched the world’s first passenger vehicle with full-time four-wheel drive and 84 years later, Mitsubishi presented their new Pajero Sport. A luxurious purpose-built sport utility vehicle with refined driving dynamics that challenges many spacious and luxurious sedans, for far less than its peers. Electronic assistance allows the driver to select either the Gravel, Mud/Snow, Sand or Rock setting to suit surface conditions and optimise engine output, transmission settings and braking for superior traction. A lockable rear differential ensures great road holding under any conditions. Pajero is synonymous with a soft drive and feel,

Hyundai 1,25 Grand i10 Fluid Auto

This little car with its solid build quality and reputation for reliability is a well-priced charmer. Based on the hugely successful Hyundai Getz that it replaced in 2014, the Grand i10 bridges the gap between a small A-segment car and a larger B-segment car. Being the smallest car in the local Hyundai range, the remarkably spacious interior is a pleasant surprise. Even very tall males fit comfortably in the front, and rear seat occupants up to about 1,85cm will still have headroom. Observing the car from outside, this space-maximising engineering feat in such a small car deserves a standing ovation. It has more rear seat space than most larger B-segment cars. Beside roominess, dropping the rear seats presents over 1200 litres of space, which is one of the best in its class. A sleek exterior contributes to very low noise levels that is also aided by a non-protruding windscreen sealing that improves aerodynamic airflow. Noise levels as measured in decibells are lower than many premium sedans at highway speeds. Powered by a “Kappa” 1,25-litre engine with many outstanding features such as a maintenance-free long-life timing chain, the Hyundai’s responsiveness on steep uphills was impressive. High seating positions and large windows provide excellent allround views, that combined with light electric steering makes manoeuvring in traffic and tight parking spaces a breeze. Unsurprisingly therefore, it attracts a wide demographic from young first-time buyers to much older people who also appreciate the high standard specifications. Our flagship test unit had all the bells and whistles, including electrically heated side mirrors that fold at the press of a button and a large full-colour touch-screen where many functions could be controlled. I recommend spending the R2 500 extra on an SD memory card that activates the navigation on the infotainment system.

Engine 4-Cylinder Inline Transverse 1248 cc Power 64 kW @ 6000 rpm Torque 120 Nm @ 4000 rpm Acceleration 0-100 km/h in 14,2 seconds Top Speed 167 km/h Overall Fuel Consumption 6,9 lt/100 km Load Capacity 256-1202 lt Turning Circle 9,8 m Ground Clearance 167 mm Weight 1078 kg Price R206 900 2-Year/30 000 km Service Plan CO 2 Emissions 147 g/km

a quiet cabin with very low levels of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH), as well as modern styling. A commanding view is as ideal in traffic as in conquering any terrain, while built-in roof rails improve aerodynamics and directional stability at higher speeds. LED driving lamps with auto levelling and DRLs, including a headlamp washer for the 4WD version and a LED highmounted rear stop lamp on the tailgate provides more safety. Double wishbone coil springs with a stabiliser bar in the front and multi-link suspension with stabiliser bar in the back and a strong ladder-frame design absorbs high levels of NVH and gives a car-like ride. A luxurious interior offers comfort and space with soft-feel leather seats and an electrically adjustable driver’s seat. A second row of seats offers a 60:40 split with tumble, reclining and sliding function while the third row of seats folds flat into the floor to maximise cargo space. Rear park distance control with a rear-view camera, dual automatic air conditioning, an electric parking brake and a multi-function leather steering wheel are just some items on the long list of standard features. The Pajero is one of the safest sport utility vehicles available, with just about every conceivable standard electronic safety feature. Nothing in the 4WD segment matches it in terms of value for money.

Engine Turbocharged 4-Cylinder Inline Diesel 2442 cc Power 133 kW @ 3500 rpm Torque 430 Nm @ 2500 rpm Acceleration 0-100 km/h in 11 seconds Top Speed 180 km/h Overall Fuel Consumption 10,8 lt/100 km Load Capacity 193-813 lt Turning Circle 11,2 m Ground Clearance 215 mm Weight 1935 kg Price R599 995 5-Year/90 000 km Service Plan CO 2 Emissions 214 g/km

Alfa Romeo Stelvio 2,0T Super Q4

Alfa Romeos have always been head turners and that’s what red-blooded Romeos do. If Venezia Giacomo Girolamo Casanova lived today instead of the late 1700s he would have driven the Alfa Romeo Stelvio. As a connoisseur of seduction, he would have loved the seductive nature of the Stelvio! Alfa Romeo was born in Milan on 24 June 1910 and the name has become synonymous with performance and sex appeal. Few brands have such an aura of nostalgia that draws a very patriotic and brand loyal client base. The Stelvio is the firstborn SUV to the Alfa Romeo family and being named after Italy’s iconic and highest pass, Stelvio Pass, which has 75 hairpin bends over 20 kilometres, is an honour. Balanced weight distribution, the most direct steering in the segment and state-of-the-art lightweight material like a carbon fibre drive shaft sets a benchmark. Being curvaceous, it looks less bulky in the flesh than some boxy competitors. Both the Giulia and the Stelvio enjoy the same marvellous suspension that swallows bumps and clings to the road. If you like the Giulia, you’ll love the Stelvio, as they are very similar interior-wise. Rear vision is rather limited though and the tyre repair kit seemed complex to operate. South African conditions are demanding, and the lack of a full-size spare wheel confronts our adventurous spirits. The powerful all aluminium twin-turbocharged engine challenges its rivals, but their acceleration stats are still clustered closely together. An eight-speed ZF transmission channels power to permanent all-wheel drive, while a lockup clutch gives in-gear acceleration zing and the DNA

selector adds more spice. Perfect weight distribution bolsters dynamic characteristics, especially on low grip terrain! Oh Romeo, Romeo wherefore art thou so hot?

Engine Twin-Turbocharged 4-Cylinder Inline 1995 cc Power 206 kW @ 5250 rpm Torque 400 Nm @ 2250 rpm Acceleration 0-100 km/h in 5,7 seconds Top Speed 230 km/h Overall Fuel Consumption 12,4 lt/100 km Load Capacity 499-1600 lt Turning Circle 11,7 m Ground Clearance 200 mm Weight 1660 kg Price R810 000 6-Year/100 000 km Maintenance Plan CO 2 Emissions 161 g/km

Land Cruiser Prado 3,0D VX-L

The Land Cruiser is the most widely available model in the global Toyota product range – being sold in more than 190 countries worldwide. The cult-like South African following with off-roading enthusiasts is well deserved as this behemoth lets very little stand in its way. At the launch a few months ago, Toyota let us cruise the Sani Pass. I use the word “cruise” because regardless of how daunting the pass was, the Cruiser sailed through it in absolute comfort. Seldom has a vehicle been more aptly named! The all-terrain support systems help even unskilled drivers make the most of off-road performance. They also make the Prado one of the most technically advanced, safe, pleasurable and easyto-use 4x4 vehicles in the world. Driving it after the launch let me experience it under my day-to-day driving conditions. Its powerful road presence and high levels of on-board Nissan Qashqai 1,5 dCI Tekna By KEVIN DU PLESSIS model will continue its market success as it is a real looker and perfect for “cityproofing” yourself. It has all of the cool gizmos that help you have a more relaxed driving experience in crazy urban traffic situations, including blind spot monitoring, intelligent emergency breaking, forward collision warning, cross traffic alert, moving object detection, and an around view camera monitor system. It offers a smooth ride, but suffers from a turbo lag that necessitates constant gear shifting. I enjoyed the car on the freeway, it handles confidently, and does not let a speed bump tell it what to do. Its fuel economy is truly excellent, on a trip from Joburg to Midrand it hit an average of 5,9 litres per 100km and there’s a nifty app that calculates your eco technology mark it down as a premium 4×4. Considering the Cruiser is almost 5 metres long and close to 2 metres in width and height it’s a whole lot of vehicle to drive! Having to transport some larger items the space just boggled the mind. The interior was chock-full of luxury and sophistication and eventually I had to stop playing with all the gadgets or I would never have left my driveway. Once on the road I had to constantly fight the urge to simply cruise down to the coast for an impromptu holiday. I must admit that the tyre pressure warning system had me seeing red as, even after three stops at garages I could not get it to switch off. Other than that, I had very little to complain about. The standard convenience specification list is befitting the stature of the Land Cruiser Prado – and I had loads more extras. Besides being short and almost needing a step ladder to hoist myself into the driver’s seat, once on my throne I was truly the queen of the road.

Engine Turbocharged Diesel 6-Cylinder Inline 2982 cc Power 120 kW @ 3400 rpm Torque 400 Nm @ 1600-2800 rpm Acceleration 0-100 km/h in 11,7 seconds Top Speed 175 km/h Overall Fuel Consumption 9,3 lt/100 km Load Capacity 104-974 lt Turning Circle 11,6 m Ground Clearance 215 mm Weight 2435 kg Price R969 600 5-Year/90 000 km Service Plan

The Qashqai is the original urban crossover and the new CO 2 Emissions 226 g/km driving score based on pull aways, cruising, and deceleration. The interior is gorgeous, spacious and quiet with enough storage compartments. Its front seats have been completely redesigned and are very comfortable. The panoramic glass roof opens the vehicle up in a delightful manner, although I cannot decide how I feel about the fact that it can’t be opened. Loading space is more than adequate, but I would have given up a few litres to fit in a spare wheel, which it does not have. The tyre repair kit is a scary idea. The infotainment has USB, SD, CD, Aux, and two 12V sockets. Navigation and entertainment features work well despite feeling old-tech, especially without Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The redeeming quality is the sevenspeaker Bose Premium sound system which truly brings out the fun and trendy side of the Qashqai. On the outside, an all-new front design with signature “boomerang” daytime running lights and sexy 19-inch alloy wheels enhance sex-appeal. It looks best in a bright colour!

Engine Turbocharged 4-Cylinder Inline 1461 cc Power 81 kW @ 4000 rpm Torque 260 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm Acceleration 0-100 km/h in 11,9 seconds Top Speed 182 km/h Overall Fuel Consumption 7,8 lt/100 km Load Capacity 430-1585 lt Turning Circle 10,72 m Ground Clearance 182 mm Weight 1875 kg Price R434 000 3-Year/90 000 km Service Plan CO 2 Emissions 109 g/km

Polo Vivo 1,6 Highline

With almost 194 000 units sold since its market introduction in 2010, the Volkswagen Polo Vivo Hatch has been the best-selling passenger model in South Africa for the past seven years. It’s also proudly South African – the only locally built model in the segment with nearly 76% of parts sourced locally. It had the class-leading residual value in its segment in the used car market. Those are some pretty impressive stats! The new Polo Vivo is based on the fifth-generation Polo and has a sharper front and rear design, fresh colours, and new interior materials. The 1,6-litre Highline is fairly loaded compared to the Trendline – 16-inch alloy wheels, colour-coded side-mirror caps and door handles, soft touch facia, height-adjustable driver’s seat, adjustable leather-clad steering wheel with audio controls, electronic stability control, hill hold assist and more. It has Bluetooth connectivity with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. With all these extras I was a little puzzled as to why side mirrors are still manual and not electric – but if that is the only fault, that’s good going. The drive was noteworthy and the 5-speed gearbox was a joy with the electrically assisted steering system being, in my opinion, one of the better I have driven in this segment. This is hardly surprising as the Polo Vivo is essentially a pared down version of the outgoing Polo model allowing use of the existing base and technology. With a great gearbox and BMW M240i Coupé By KEVIN DU PLESSIS rear-wheel drive (unique to its segment) sporty car offers exceptional comfort, intelligence and performance with that sexy BMW sophistication the world has come to love. Listen, if you are hitting the highway or the track, or even a bumper-to-bumper situation, this car is just everything. Its handling is superb, like it can read your mind. Turbo lag? What turbo lag? With the BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and EfficientDynamics 3-litre engine combined with an 8-speed Steptronic gearbox (with manual shift paddles), you really have to be a pain in the neck to find any issues with performance. Just remember, lots of power requires lots of juice, and in all fairness for what it is, it is an immensely lightweight car. Add to that its Eco Pro driving mode and you have manageable fuel consumption figures. The interior is perfection. Beautiful contrast stitching black leather, combined with high-gloss black and aluminium finishes. The newly designed cabin has very few joins which gives it a calmer presence. The 8,8-inch central display is the face of a very advanced infotainment and stats system, which is easy to use once you explore it thoroughly. Both touchscreen and a touchpad for fingertip writing are available and to my surprise the voice activation feature is actually not bad. The exterior upgrades include a more striking front end with adaptive full-LED headlights and more powerfully contoured a decent engine VW may have done it again. While jokes that owners of the outgoing Polo might be a smidge disgruntled, new Polo Vivo owners will be most gruntled (yes that is a word. Google it).

Engine Power Torque Acceleration Top Speed Overall Fuel Consumption Load Capacity Turning Circle Ground Clearance Weight Price CO 2 Emissions

4-Cylinder Inline 1598 cc 77 kW @ 5250 rpm 153 Nm @ 3800 rpm 0-100 km/h in 12,8 seconds 188 km/h 7,6 lt/100 km 280-952 lt 10,6 m 143 mm 1540 kg R214 900

147 g/km

Thrilling! When you fire this sexy monster up and it hums with powerful pleasure underneath you, you can’t help but feel like the envy of everyone on the road. This 3-Year/45 000 km Service Plan surfaces. But honestly, it looks like a BMW, and that’s that. Its boot space is quite big, which comes at the cost of having only a tyre-repair kit instead of an actual spare wheel, and talking of space, bear in mind that when you buy a two-door coupé your passengers in the back will not have a lot of room.

Engine TwinTurbo 6-Cylinder Inline 2998 cc Power 250/340 kW @ 5500 rpm Torque 500 Nm @ 1520-4500 rpm Acceleration 0-100 km/h in 4,8 seconds Top Speed 250 km/h Overall Fuel Consumption 11,8 lt/100 km Load Capacity 390 lt Turning Circle 10,9 m Ground Clearance 130 mm Weight 1475 kg Price R719 102 5-Year/100 000 km Maintenance Plan CO 2 Emissions 179 g/km