From September to November 2021, Motus introduced many groundbreaking new vehicle models to the South African market.
From September to November 2021, Original Equipment Manufacturers introduced many groundbreaking new vehicle models to the market.
(JOHANNESBURG, South Africa) December 2021 Motus CEO Osman Arbee says: “Tremendous improvements in motor vehicle efficiency, performance and comfort have led to many exciting new models. Motus is proud to bring these to the market.”
Below is an overview of the exciting introductions and developments in motor vehicles on the market.
Hyundai introduces automatic Atos
Hyundai’s much-loved Atos is now available with a five-speed manual transmission, making this entry-level model an even more attractive choice. A free-revving 1.1 litre four-cylinder petrol engine that offers 50kW at 5000rpm and 99Nm from 2800rpm powers the Atos. The Atos is well known for its excellent fuel consumption and that remains despite the addition of the automatic gearbox, with real world testing returning a figure of 5.9 litres per 100km. A tight turning circle of 3,35m and motor driven power assisted steering makes it an easy vehicle to manoeuvre in city spaces. Stand out features of the comprehensively equipped Atos include a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system complete with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality, a multifunction steering wheel, electric windows, central locking, driver and front passenger airbags, ABS and Isofix child seat mounting points.
Hyundai Palisade now on sale in SA
There is a new contender in the highly competitive SUV segment in the form of the Hyundai Palisade. The Palisade, which measures more than five metres in length, takes up its spot at the helm of the Hyundai SUV/Crossover, which comprises the Santa Fe, Tucson, Creta, Venue as well as recently upgraded Kona crossover. It offers exceptional space, technology and safety for a large SUV with seating for up to eight and a massive cargo space. The exterior design reflects the Palisades unique flagship identity with a premium, distinctive and bold road presence. Up front is a dominant, bold and wide cascading grille. Separate composite headlamps and a vertically connected forward lighting signature which includes LED headlights, LED daytime running lights and LED turn signal mirrors create a strong visual demeanour. The interior has been designed to create a sense of relaxation and comfort, with seating for seven or eight passengers making it perfect for family adventures. An 8-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless cell phone charging, multiple simultaneous Bluetooth connections, seven USB ports, ventilated front and second row seats in the seven-seater derivative, heated front and second-row seats in both derivatives, shift by wire and roof mounted diffuser vents cater for comfort and connectivity needs.
Hyundai Staria, a people mover from the future
The Staria embodies Hyundai’s transformation as a smart mobility provider and embraces the inside-out design philosophy that emphasises interior spaciousness and usability. Over time the complete Staria range will be available in 2 to 11 seat configurations but has been initially launched in South Africa in three variants, the Luxury, Elite and Executive with various seating configurations, features and trim levels. A Staria panel van and a versatile five-seater version, similar to the previous H1 Multicab, will be added to the local offering during 2022. Inside, low beltlines and panoramic side windows ensure excellent visibility and add to the feeling of spaciousness. The interior features a simple and modest layout, including an 8-inch front display screen, touch-based centre fascia and a button type electronic shift lever for the Luxury and Elite versions. A digital instrument cluster is on top of the dashboard, providing and unobstructed view for driver. Both driver and passengers also have access to a centre console equipped with cup holders, USB ports and additional storage space in the Luxury derivative. The Elite and Executive versions feature a third middle seat in front, of which the backrest can tilt forward to provide cup holders and storage space for odds and ends.
Hyundai expands Venue range with entry-level option
Hyundai’s popular Venue range has been boosted by the addition of a new entry-level derivative that is set to broaden the appeal of this versatile and modern compact SUV. The addition of the Venue 1,2 Motion manual represents an excellent value for money proposition. This new model is powered by a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated, four-cylinder petrol engine, paired with a five- speed manual gearbox and driven through the front wheels. Offering 61kW at 6000rpm and114Nm at 4200rpm performance is nippy and frugal. Despite its entry-level price, this Venue boasts steering wheel controls for the Bluetooth enabled infotainment system that incorporate Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality.
Updated Renault Duster now available
The popular Renault Duster has been updated with new driving aids and equipment to ensure that it remains one of the foremost contenders in the B-SUV segment. Designed and engineered to easily conquer tough road conditions, the Duster has been a huge success for Renault in South Africa, selling 23 000 units since its launch in 2013. The updated model builds on the strengths of an extremely capable SUV, which is tough, simple and reliable, yet very accessible based on the value for money proposition it represents. Exterior updates include a prominent new rear spoiler that rounds off the rear end, newly designed 16-inch alloy wheels and 17-inch Diamond Cut Wheels, striking silver roof rails and matching front and rear skid plates. The chrome trim of the grille alongside a raised waistline and newly updated C-shaped front and LED rear light signature with Daytime Running Lights complete the powerful new look.
Renault Kiger launches in South Africa
Renault has positioned the Kiger in such a way that it will be more alluring than a five-door hatch, yet more competitive than a conventional B-SUV thanks to its features and competitive pricing. The eye-catching exterior design alludes to sportiness. Upfront the grille features a 3D graphic finish with honeycomb shaped chrome effects. Flanking the grille are LED daytime running lights while striking tri-octa LED Pure Vision headlamps give an impression of modernity and sophistication. At the rear, LED taillights with glossy black inserts, outline the Kiger’s rear double C-shaped lighting signature. Higher spec models are fitted with multi-sense that enables the selection of different driving modes, Normal, Eco and Sport, which alter the power steering, gear ratios and throttle response accordingly.
Refreshed Renault Koleos goes on sale
Thanks to an assertive design and sophisticated interior, the new Koleos is as attractive as ever. Upfront, eye catching C-shaped daytime running lights extend beyond the new LED headlight units. A new grille featuring luxurious chrome insets now extends all the way to the chrome- underlined fog lamps. The lower bumper receives a skid plate befitting the SUV characteristics. Depending on the model, the new Koleos is available with Pure Vision full LED main and dipped beam lights. The rear of the Koleos is now equipped with wider LED taillights that accentuate the impression of width. A rear skid plate extends higher up the bumper while the twin chrome bumper garnish has been retained. Along with side protective mouldings, 18-inch alloy wheels add a more polished look. With one of the longest wheelbases in its class, the Koleos boasts class leading roominess for all occupants. Rear passengers benefit from class-leading knee room while there is 464 litres of boot space, which can be extended to 1 700 litres with the rear seats folded down. The comfort of the seats has been improved and the front seats now feature six-way power adjustment and lumbar adjustability.
Introducing the Kia Concepts EV9
Kia has unveiled the first official images of the Concept EV9, which is an important milestone in Kia’s commitment to sustainable mobility solutions. The futuristic design was inspired by nature and utilises upcycled materials developed from ocean waste. The Concept EV9 hints at Kia’s next model in the dedicated BEV line-up based on the Electric Global Modular Platform architecture and following in the footsteps of the Kia EV6. It embodies Kia’s vision for the SUV segment, bringing together progressive design, state of the art technology and an advanced all- electric powertrain in one package.
Kia adds GT-Line to Sportage model range
Kia South Africa has introduced the limited edition Sportage GT-Line to its newly-launched Sportage range. With a huge variety of standard features and a number of sporty styling enhancements the GT-Line cements the Sportage’s status as a popular midsize SUV. The GT- Line features a number of additions that set it apart from the rest of the model range, including distinctive LED combination lamps front and rear, dual exhausts, model specific skid plates and striking 19-inch alloy wheels. The high-quality, spacious interior of the GT-Line features a two- tone, diamond patterned and perforated artificial leather trim on the seats, a glossy finish on the centre console, a GT-Line specific flat-bottomed steering wheel and a 4.2-inch colour instrumentation cluster. Standard specification includes luxury items such as smart entry with push-button start, dual-zone climate control, eight-inch HD touchscreen infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, seat heating on the front seats, panoramic sunroof, wireless smartphone charging and much more.
Alfa Romeo launches updated Stelvio and Giulia
Stellantis reaffirmed the commitment to the Alfa Romeo brand with the introduction of refreshed Giulia and Stelvio models. The interiors of both cars further highlight quality and elegance. Connectivity has been improved thanks to the addition of an 8.8-inch touch screen infotainment system that boasts smartphone like ease of use while enabling a suite of Mopar services for remote car management. The underpinnings have been slightly updated, too. The front suspension has double wishbones with semi-virtual steering to make suspension angle more controllable. The new Alfalink is introduced on the rear suspension. This multi-link system remains rigid when cornering, but is also longitudinally flexible. The all-aluminium engines of the Giulia remain the same, but are now Euro 6b-final compliant. The 2.0 litre turbocharged unit boasts 206kW and power is transferred to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Giulia QV is fitted with a bi-turbo V6 powerplant that boasts 375kW, enabling a 0-100km/h sprint time of 3.9 seconds.
Audi e-tron order books now open
The official introduction of Audi’s full electric range, which consists of the e-tron SUV, e-tron Sportback and S Sportback, e-tron GT and high-performance RS e-tron GT into South Africa has been confirmed for the first quarter of 2022. Within the Audi dealer network, 10 dealers will retail the e-tron models range, located in Johannesburg, Pretoria, Cape Town and Durban. These ten Audi dealerships will also be equipped with fast electric chargers ranging from 50 to 75kW, which will be accessible to the public. As part of the e-tron purchasing process, customers will receive a complimentary home check to assess the customer’s individual home charging requirements to determine what tyre of installation is needed. Audi will also cover the installation of a 32Amp industrial outlet up to the value of R5000. This setup will allow for the integration of single phase power and the Audi e-tron charger, to deliver approximately 7.2kW of power that will allow for a 100 percent charge in approximately 13 hours.
Refreshed Audi Q5 goes on sale
Audi has made their popular Q5 mid-sized SUV even more attractive with a mid-life facelift. These updates combine a sporty character with excellent everyday usability and versatility. The updated exterior design places emphasis on the Audi Q SUV identity and boasts a rear light cluster featuring digital OLED technology, for the first time. The octagonal single frame grille is now shallower and appears wider than before while the side inlets have grown in height and are now structured by trapezoidal insets. Rounding off the front end are LED daytime running lights that give the Q5 a new signature. When viewed from the side, the Q5 now has a lighter look with enhanced ground clearance thanks to a redesigned sill insert, while the rear end features a new trim element between the light clusters. Trim lines now include standard, Advanced and S- line. The Advanced model can be differentiated by chromed details in the grille and silver under ride guards. The S-Line model features a honeycomb pattern on the grille and a chrome strip that frames the rear diffuser. Advanced and S line models include the high gloss styling package.
BMW updates X3 model range
BMW has refreshed the X3 with a new look, improved equipment and a range that has been optimised to meet customer needs. A more modern appearance includes design changes to the front and rear and an emphasis on classic X elements. The BMW kidney grille and headlights have been redesigned, as has the front apron and rear bumper. A black bar in which the iCam is positioned (if fitted) ensures visual separation of the grille. High quality X elements such as underbody protection and X Line specific side skirts are now standard. The sporty genes are underlined by the M sports package of the BMW X3 M40i.
Fiat 500 receives updates all round
Launched in 2007, three million examples of the modern Fiat 500 have been sold to date. Just like the original launched in the 1950s, the Fiat 500 remains a core model in Fiat’s range and a big contributor to the brand’s ongoing feasibility. One of the most successful modern iterations of a modern classic, the Fiat 500 has been completely refreshed with new trim levels, new colours and new interiors. The entry-level model now carries Cult nomenclature and is fitted with 14-inch steel wheels with hubcaps and black exterior mirrors. Exterior features include LED daytime running lights and halogen headlights. The interior is equipped with blue fabric seats featuring a Fiat Monogram and body colour-matching dashboard. A new option for the Cult is a Techno Blue Matt dashboard and the standard list of comfort features remains high with a Uconnect five-inch radio with DAB, USB ports and manual air-conditioning.
Fiat expands 500 range with addition of 500X models
Following the recent launch of the new Fiat 500, the range is being expanded with the addition of 500X models. The 500X features all the retro cool features of the 500 but with the practical elements that makes crossover vehicles so popular. The Fiat 500X shares Cult, Connect and Sport Trim levels with the 500 family but gains a Cross derivative too. It features 16-inch alloy wheels along with urban front and rear bumpers. Halogen daytime running lights and LED taillights as well as glossy black mirrors and chrome door handles add an elegant touch.
Ford unveils the next generation Ranger
Ford has unveiled the smartest, most versatile and most capable Ranger ever. Using years of Ford truck expertise and a deep understanding of their customers, the company collaborated with customers around the globe to create a vehicle and ownership experience that next generation Ranger owners can rely on for their businesses, family lives and adventure. Visually the next generation Ranger boasts a bold and confident look with a purposeful exterior that shares Ford’s global truck DNA. Upfront is a defined new grille, signature C-clamp headlight treatment. A subtle shoulder line down the side incorporates bolder wheel arches. The Ranger now features matrix LED headlights while taillights are designed in harmony with the signature graphics on the front.
Ford introduces exclusive Ranger Raptor Special Edition
The appeal of the already popular Ford Ranger Raptor has been heightened even further with the launch of the Special Edition version in South Africa that will be produced in limited numbers to ensure exclusivity. Enhancements include interior and exterior functional and styling enhancements, which include eye-catching decals and red accents to the fitment of the integrated sports hoop and practical Mountain top lockable black roller shutter. Developed in conjunction with Ford Performance, the Ranger Raptor created an entirely new segment when it was launched in 2019 thanks to an ultra-strong chassis, bespoke suspension an tyres as well as a Terrain Management system.
Isuzu launches all-new mu-X
Isuzu Motors South Africa has introduced the much-anticipated second-generation Isuzu mu-X, boasting bold new styling, a larger and quieter cabin, luxurious materials and next generation driver assistance and safety features. The mu-X is aimed at growing families looking for a seven-seater to fit their lifestyle needs. The new mu-X offers comfort and convenience features for up to seven adults with a cabin that is said to be the largest in the segment. A number of new safety and driver assistance features make driving long distances a breeze. All models feature new alloy wheel designs, with 20-inch wheels fitted to the top of the range ONYX model, 18-inch alloy wheels fitted to LSE models and 17-inch wheels on the LS models.
Special edition Land Rover Defender celebrates latest Bond film
Land Rover’s SV Bespoke department has built a special edition Land Rover Defender V8 Bond Edition in celebration of the 25th James Bond film, No Time To Die. Inspired by the specification of the Defenders that appear in the movie, the special edition is available to order as a 110 or a 90. The stealthy Defender V8 Bond Edition is fitted with an Extended Black Pack with 22-inch Luna Gloss Black alloy wheels, signature Xenon Blue front brake calipers and Defender 007 rear badging. Bond Edition Defenders are limited to 300 units worldwide, with just five units destined for South Africa. Laser etched numbering on the interior confirms this exclusivity alongside a SV Bespoke logo.
Land Rover Defender V8 arrives in SA
The most powerful Land Rover Defender ever built is now available in South Africa. With a 5.0- litre supercharged engine under the bonnet that boasts 386kW and 625Nm, the new Defender builds on decades of Land Rover V8 heritage and compliments the existing Defender range of Ingenium petrol, diesel and advanced plug-in hybrid variants perfectly. With 386kW on tap the Defender 90 V8 is capable of rocketing from standstill to 100km/h in only 5.2 seconds, on its way to a top speed of 240km/h, while the 110 takes 5.4 seconds to reach 100km/h.
Defender V8 Carpathian Edition
The Carpathian Edition represents the ultimate expression of performance, durability and design. Finished exclusively in Carpathian Grey, it features a Narvik Black contrast roof, bonnet and tail door. Other visual highlights include V8 Carpathian Edition badges, Satin Black towing eyes and Xenon Blue Brake calipers. The exterior is finished with Land Rover’s Satin Protective Film. This recyclable PU-based wrap has been applied to the external bodywork and has a dual- purpose including to give the Defender a contemporary semi-matte finish but also to protect against damage such as car park scratches and off-road bramble rash.
Land Rover announces Discovery Metropolitan Edition
Land Rover has added extra appeal to the Discovery range with the addition of the Metropolitan Edition. This new special edition features a host of additional features to improve the comfort and convenience of the seven-seater SUV. Topping the Discovery range, the Metropolitan Edition offers a host of exterior upgrades and high level of standard specification. It adds to the already comprehensive specification of the R-Dynamic specification with exterior design enhancements and a suite of convenience-boosting technologies.
New Range Rover launched
Range Rover is the original luxury SUV and in the 50 years since its first introduction it has always combined incredible comfort with the ability to conquer all types of terrain. The new Range Rover combines breathtaking modernity and aesthetic grace with the latest technology and connectivity. Developed using state of the art engineering techniques, new levels of virtual development and Land Rover’s punishing development programme will ensure new levels of quality. Upon launch in South Africa the Range Rover will be available in a choice of HSE and Autobiography models. Both standard and long wheelbase body designs are available with five seats, while the new long wheelbase model is available with a third row for extended comfort for up to seven adults.
Lexus LC 500 convertible arrives in time for spring
The Lexus LC 500 Convertible is now available in South Africa, expanding the brand’s presence among the most elite market segments. Precisely positioned wind deflectors and Active Noise Control combine with sound insulation and absorption techniques to help suppress unwanted harshness from entering the cabin. The LC 500 Convertible delivers a unique and enthralling proposition as it combines open top driving with an incredible performance and the soundtrack to match.
Lexus unveils new LX
Since its launch in 1996, the LX has been the flagship of the Lexus model range with high- quality, ride comfort and driving performance that can tackle any road in any part of the world. Testament to this is the fact that to date 500 000 units have been sold in 50 countries and regions. The new LX is designed to provide occupants with exceptional comfort, while maintaining the traditional body-on-frame structure that ensures reliability, durability and driving performance. The addition of the new GA-F platform means a weight reduction of approximately 200kg. The new LX will be available with a powerful 3.5-litre V6 twin- turbocharged petrol engine as well as a 3.3-litre V6 diesel twin-turbo engine.
Nissan launches Navara single cab variants
Following the recent launch of the new Nissan Navara Double Cab, Nissan have completed the range with the launch of single cab derivatives that are ready to get to work. Despite its workhorse intent, the single cab models boast an impressive list of features, high levels of safety and security across all grades, including driver and passenger airbags as standard as well as ABS and EBD. In addition, higher spec models are fitted with side, curtain and a driver knee airbag as well as brake assist, vehicle dynamic control and Hill Start Assist. The Navara single- cab models are available with a choice of petrol or diesel engines. The Navara Single Cab 2.5- litre, DOHC petrol engine in XE grade offers 118kW and 233Nm. The 2.5-litre diesel engine is available in two outputs including a 140kW, 450Nm version. Thanks to turbocharging, direct injection and an intercooler, the same engine in the XE and SE grades produces 120kW and 403Nm.
Mini range receives extensive updates
Twenty years after the launch of the modern Mini, the latest generation has been treated to a host of updates. The same improvements have been applied to the Mini three-door hatch, five- door hatch and Mini Convertible. Upfront the Mini receives a purist look thanks to a new front design while LED headlights are now standard equipment. LED units for the low beam and high beam ensure bright and even illumination of the road while a circumferential light band takes on the function of the daytime running lights and indicators. Redesigns to the rear include a new rear apron and LED rear lights incorporating the Union Jack design in a darkened pattern, which are now standard fitment on all models.
Toyota Corolla Cross now on sale in SA
The Corolla name comes with a lot of heritage as it has carved out a reputation over 12 generations and 50 million units sold globally, making it one of the most successful model ranges ever. The Corolla Cross is based on Toyota’s TNGA platform, a modular platform capable of underpinning hatch, sedan and SUV model ranges such as the C-HR, Prius, RAV4 and 12th generation Corolla models. Advantages of this platform include excellent ride quality, low NVH levels a spacious cabin and class leading luggage capacity, a low centre of gravity, McPherson strut front suspension design and torsion beam rear suspension for enhanced packaging and excellent ride comfort.
All-new Toyota GR86 hits the road
The Toyota GR86 has gone on sale in Japan. The GR86 was jointly developed between Subaru and Toyota, who entered into a new business and capital alliance in 2019. This alliance includes a commitment to making even better cars in new segments, including the joint development of the new Toyota bZ4X battery electric vehicle. Both companies share a desire to continue delivering the excitement, thrill and joy of driving sports cars and have therefore engaged in the joint development of sports cars that embody the unique qualities of both companies. While the GR86 shares the same platform as the Subaru BRZ, Toyota focused on delivering the unique driving feel of a GR vehicle, with intuitive handling and instinctive responsiveness, smooth power delivery as well as outstanding agility at the upper limits of performance.
Toyota Hilux receives specification upgrades
The Toyota Hilux continues to top sales charts as it cements its status as SA’s most popular vehicle month after month. Offered in four body shape configurations including single, Xtra, chassis and double-cab, there is a Hilux to suit every need. In August 2020 Toyota introduced a new face for the Hilux alongside the new flagship Legend grade, while the SRX made way for Raider. The model update at the time also included the introduction of the premium leisure Legend RS models complete with an electric roller-shutter deck lid. Based on customer feedback, Toyota has once again made a number of specification updates to the Hilux range.
Toyota launches all-new Land Cruiser 300
The Toyota Land Cruiser 300 represents the first new Land Cruiser in 14 years. Combining the core Land Cruiser attributes with a brand-new design and based on Toyota’s TNGA it represents a new age of Land Cruiser. The design remains unmistakably angular but features a dramatically different profile compared its 200 predecessor. The newcomer also bears a resemblance to the much loved 80-series as it retains the classic two-box look. Upfront is a large and prominent radiator grille flanked by rectangular headlamps on each side and U- shaped radiator openings The bonnet features a signature Land Cruiser channel down the centre.
Toyota Rumion lands in Mzansi
The Toyota Avanza is immensely popular in South Africa, where it fills the gap as a well priced yet reasonably sized people mover. Now after two generations, the Avanza is being replaced by the Toyota Rumion and features a host of improvements, which should once again make it a hit in the smaller MPV segment. Based on the Suzuki Ertiga, the Rumion represents the third product in the Toyota Suzuki alliance. Despite a new name, the Rumion features the same product concept, compact dimensions, four-cylinder petrol engine, seven-seater layout and good ground clearance. A change to a front-wheel drive layout means improved fuel economy, better packaging and reduced mechanical complexity.
New Volkswagen Caddy on sale early 2022
The fifth generation of Volkswagen’s popular Caddy van model range is due for local introduction in the first quarter of 2022. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles have confirmed that they will be launching the new Caddy locally from early 2022. The fifth generation of this popular contender in the city van segment will be launched with a new naming convention with models under the Caddy, Caddy Maxi, Caddy Kombi, Caddy Maxi Kombi, Caddy Cargo and Caddy Maxi Cargo nomenclature.
Volkswagens Polo has been given a new look
Volkswagen’s popular Polo has been given a new look and fitted with the latest technology ahead of its local launch early next year. The new Polo features an updated exterior design. The bumper and tailgate have been redesigned, as have the headlights and tail light clusters, which now come standard with the latest LED technology. A distinctive day and night time light signature includes a new LED light strip along the radiator grille in conjunction with the IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights. Design cues from Volkswagen’s all-electric ID models, such as the LED crossbar, are evident. When launched in South Africa in January 2022 the new Polo will be available with three engine options. The Polo and Polo Life will be equipped with a 1.0 TSi, three-cylinder, capable of 70kW and 175Nm. The 1.0 TSI 85kW engine will only be available in the Polo Life and Polo R-Line derivatives. Coupled to a seven-speed DSG transmission, this power plant offers 85kW and 200Nm.
VW Polo Vivo gets black style treatment
Volkswagen’s evergreen Polo Vivo is the latest model from their range to be fitted with the popular Black Style Package, which was first introduced on the Tiguan and Touareg in 2019. The success of the Black Style package on those SUV models was a motivating factor in the inclusion of the Black Style Package on additional models such as the new Golf GTI and now the Polo Vivo. On the Polo Vivo the Black Style Package comprises of black 16-inch Portago alloy wheels, gloss black mirror caps, a gloss black painted roof, gloss black B and C pillar covers, black side sill covers, body coloured boot spoiler, privacy glass, chrome exhaust tip as well as anthracite headliner and sun visors. The Black Style Package is available on the Polo Vivo Comfortline and Highline derivatives. It is only available on models finished in Pure White, Reflex Silver, Flash Red and Reef Blue exterior colours.