New model releases December 2023
(JOHANNESBURG, South Africa) 20 December 2023 – Between October and November 2023, many innovative new vehicle models were launched to the market from Motus Importers and Distributors, as well as the Motus Retail network of dealerships.
Osman Arbee, Motus Chief Executive Officer, says: “Motus is pleased to introduce so many exciting new models to our South African motorists.” Motus is South Africa’s largest importer, distributor and retailer of motor vehicles and below is an overview of the latest introductions and developments in motor vehicles:
Hyundai Tucson 2.0D N-Line
The Tucson has always been attractive and modern in design, the N-Line version enhancesthe Tucson styling with a much sportier appearance. As with the standard Tucson, the N Line trim features prominent geometric patterns known as parametric jewels, giving it a powerful and energetic character. On this model these parametric jewels are displayed elaborately on the grille and have been elaborated with edges, creating additional reflections depending on the angle. The grille, which sits taller and is wider, now also incorporates the N Line badge.
Under the grille sits a rectangular-shaped bumper and a refined air intake, taller and larger than that of the standard Tucson. The bumper, which is replicated at the rear, works harmoniously with the bright silver skid plates. Striking black bezels frame the head lamps. The N-Line treatment continues in the cabin with beautiful leather suede combo upholstery and red stitching. Other notable red accents and N-line branding have been added to the gear lever, left side of the dashboard, door panels, centre console and steering wheel.
An intuitive user experience is guaranteed thanks to a new digital 10.25-inch open instrument cluster, an eight-inch infotainment touchscreen that features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a wireless phone charging dock. Additional creature comforts include keyless entry with push button start, a sporty multi-function steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, a large panoramic sunroof, front, and rear USB ports, electrically operated heated and ventilated seats as well as a heated steering wheel and an electric power tailgate.
Under the bonnet is a 2.0-litre turbocharged CRDi diesel engine that is paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission and H-TRAC all-wheel drive system. The engine offers 137kW and 416Nm of torque. This allows the Tucson to accelerate from 0-100km/h in around nine seconds, while even better news is that it will sip just 6,5 litres per 100km in real world driving conditions. The Tucson’s advanced HTRAC AWD transmission features a multi-mode system and an electronic, variable torque
split clutch with active torque control between the front and rear axles. Driver-selectable Normal, Eco, Sport and Smart drive modes apply specific HTRAC torque distribution settings ensuring confident control across all conditions.
The Hyundai Tucson N Line is sold with a seven year/200 000km warranty and a six-year/90 000km service plan. Hyundai also provides seven years of roadside assistance that lets drivers worry more about being their own boss and less about vehicle maintenance.
Refreshed Hyundai Grand i10
An attractive, bigger, and wider honeycomb grille spans across the entire front section giving the impression of a bigger car with a wider stance. Boomerang-shaped daytime running lights on Fluid derivatives flanking the grille round off the clean front impression. Fluid models can also be had with a two-tone colour scheme that includes a gloss-black roof.
At the rear, horizontal lines have been straightened and the rear lights feature an updated, more harmonious configuration. Fluid derivatives now also boast attractive 15-inch alloy wheels. The side view remains mostly unchanged apart from new 15-inch alloy wheels for the Fluid derivatives and new 14-inch styled wheel covers for Motion models.
The interior of the Grand i10 has been treated to a modern refresh that includes black seats with red detail, a touch that has also been added to the multi-function steering wheel and air vents. Sedan models feature a mix between black and grey on the front dashboard and inner door trims. All models are now fitted with an eight-inch touchscreen with much improved resolution, as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity and a rear-view camera. Other notable features include cruise control, PDC with a rear parking camera, electric windows, front USB ports and air-conditioning.
Driver comfort is taken care of by a height-adjustable seat and steering wheel. A useful centre console for rear passengers of hatchback models contains air vents and a USB charging port. The rear bench of Fluid models folds down in a 60:40 split for when extra loading space is required.
The refreshed Grand i10 hatchback is still available with a choice between two petrol engines, which includes a three-cylinder 1-litre and a 1.2-litre four-cylinder engine. All sedan derivatives are powered by the 1.2-litre engine. The 1,0-litre engine used in both the Motion and Fluid hatchback derivatives offers 48,5kW at 5 500rpm and 94Nm at 3 500rpm. The 1.2-litre powerplant, which drives Motion and Fluid versions as well as the sedan offers 61kW at 6 000rpm and 114Nm at 4 000rpm. Both engines are paired with a five-speed manual gearbox, while the 1.2-litre is also available with a four speed automatic transmission.
This city slicker is economical, too, with Hyundai claiming a combined fuel consumption figure of as low as 5.5-litres per 100 kilometres, which is an important consideration for first-stime car owners. All Grand i10 derivatives are fitted with driver and front passenger airbags, Isofix child seat attachments on the rear seats and pretensioners for the front seat belts. ABS with EBD is also standard on all models.
All Grand i10 derivatives are sold with a seven-year/200 000km warranty, a one-year/15 000km service plan and five-years/150 000km roadside assistance ensuring exceptional peace of mind for those getting behind the wheel for the first time.
Find your “Space for one more” car with the Kia Sonet
If you are looking for a vehicle that offers a bit more versatility, comfort, and space than a conventional hatchback, the Kia Sonet might be the perfect choice. The Kia Sonet stands out among the many compact SUVs listed on motus.cars and the good news is that on motus.cars you can find a new, demo or even used Kia Sonet that suits your needs or budget.
The Kia Sonet is a B-SUV designed to turn heads, engineered to offer driving pleasure, built to world leading quality standards and offered with convenience, comfort and safety. The Kia Sonet boasts a striking and confident design that is sure to delight any owner. The Sonet showcases a range of styling attributes that set it apart from its competitors, including a fresh take on Kia’s signature tiger-nose grille, with a stylish front skid plate underneath. The sporty silhouette is enhanced by the unique design and structure of its C-pillars, matched with a wraparound rear windscreen. In addition, the attractive 16-inch alloy wheels, protective trim on the side and wheel arches as well as the roof rails give it an authentic SUV appearance. 190mm of ride height ensures extra versatility when you do need to venture off the beaten track.
Stepping inside the cabin reveals a high-quality interior given the price point of this compact SUV. The use of premium materials throughout not only adds to the aesthetics, but also promises long term durability. The sporty leather wrapped multi-function steering wheel, attractive artificial leather upholstery with red stitching, rear parking camera, climate control, cruise control, voice activation and the electronic driver display that offers three driving modes certainly add to the premium look and feel.
The eight-inch touch screen infotainment system is easy to use and facilitates simple and safe mirroring of smartphone functions via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. The cabin of the Sonet is impressively spacious, too, especially given the compact exterior dimensions. The boot offers 392 litres of space, while the rear seats fold down for added versatility and extra loading space.
The Kia Sonet T-GDi is fitted with a 1,0-litre turbocharged engine that delivers remarkably lively performance of 88kW at 6 00rpm and 172Nm from 1 500rpm. Paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, the Sonet also provides an overall smooth and effortless driving experience. However, the icing on the cake is the Sonet’s exceptional fuel efficiency, as it sips just 6,0 litres per 100 kilometres.
Driving around with your family means that safety remains a key priority when buying a vehicle. Fortunately, the Kia Sonet is fitted with a variety of features to keep you and your loved one’s safe at all times. All models are fitted with ABS with EBD, Hill-start assist, dual front airbags and Isofix child seat anchoring points. EX+ models add side and curtain airbags.
Mitsubishi launches value for money Triton GLX
When it was launched last year, the Mitsubishi Triton GL double cab was aimed at fleet customers and owners of small- and medium-sized enterprises, but it very quickly found favour with lifestyle customers, too, thanks to its accessibility, versatility, and bold contemporary styling.
For these customers, the level of specification included, along with modern styling and legendary Mitsubishi reliability at a more affordable price point, represented the sweet spot in terms of value for money. The Triton GL quickly found favour with leisure customers thanks to this value-for-money proposition. Now the fitment of a number of choice accessories and the creation of a limited edition GLX derivative aims to cement the Triton’s position as a vehicle that can fulfil the work and leisure roles seamlessly.
The Mitsubishi GLX double cab builds on the strengths of the GL models with a variety of additional standard specification. The addition of these choice accessories ensures that the limited-edition Triton GLX is ready for anything that a working or lifestyle environment can throw at it. It is fitted with Mitsubishi’s tried and tested DOHC intercooled turbodiesel engine that boasts 100kW and 324Nm of torque. This is mated to a 4×2 drivetrain, limited-slip differential and six-speed manual transmission that is capable of handling a wide variety of work and leisure tasks and doesn’t shy away from light off-roading or gravel road driving.
The engine and drivetrain combination also offer an excellent balance between performance and fuel economy, utilising just 8,0 litres per 100km on the combined cycle, which is a big advantage given the ever-increasing fuel price increases. The Triton GLX rides on a rigid ladder frame chassis, paired with double wishbones and coil springs upfront and a leaf spring rear suspension setup that ensures a load carrying capacity of 1-ton. The towing of trailers is made possible thanks to a neatly integrated Triton double tube tow bar.
A single rear tailgate handle enables one handed operation and features the Triton tailgate lock on this model. The contents of the load bin is kept out of sight by a Keko Tonneau cover and adding a touch of style is a black Keko Sport bar. Mitsubishi’s Dynamic Shield front design is complimented by a black Triton Low Nudge bar. The list of creature comforts is comprehensive and includes keyless entry, central locking, an immobiliser, electric windows, air-conditioning, and a touchscreen radio/CD player that has been upgraded with a Sony audio system in this limited-edition model.
The limited-edition Triton GLX is fitted with an extensive list of standard safety equipment including ABS brakes with EBD as well as Isofix child seat anchors. Occupant safety is bolstered by a high-impact safety structure as well as airbags for the driver and front passenger.
Chery launches flagship Tiggo 7 Pro Max
The new Chery Tiggo 7 Pro Max features unique styling that includes a new grille boasting an intensely accentuated diamond pattern. Crafted from a dark gloss black polycarbonate weave, it is embellished with chrome diamond-shaped highlights that result in a distinctive and captivating frontal design. New Angel Wings LED headlamps are an artful triumph of three-dimensional design.
The lower sill and side intakes have been transformed to offer a fierce road presence. Two-wheel drive models are fitted with upgraded 18-inch diamond cut alloys, with an elegant deep-dish pattern while all-wheel drive models are fitted with a larger 19-inch rim. It features a unique LED light-up sequence. As the sensors detect the key in hand, the LED lights – both front and rear – perform a welcoming symphony, offering a sense of celebration every time the driver approaches the vehicle. The powered tailgate also features an inspiring vehicle-wide LED light strip.
Inside the Tiggo 7 Pro Max aims to redefine the in-car experience. The cabin is illuminated in ambient light courtesy of a stepless LED light ring, which stretches from end-to-end, offering a spectrum of 64 captivating hues that create an immersive ambience. Taking pride of place on the dashboard is a 24,6-inch curved hyperboloid immersive screen that offers an ultra-high-definition display. The screen is a hub from which all systems including the climate control and wide variety of entertainment options including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are controlled. The premium eight speaker Sony sound system ensures an immersive auditory experience.
The central control centre has been redesigned and now features a short-travel, light-touch gear lever and a selection knob for swift changes of driving modes. One-piece perforated leather sport front seats are equipped with electric adjustment. In the new Tiggo 7 Pro Max in Executive trim, the automatic air quality control system offers negative ion air purification, ensuring the cleanest in-cabin air quality. Creature comforts include an automated rear boot, dual-zone automatic climate control, “Hello Chery” Intelligent Voice Commands for effortless control, a vast 1,1 square meter panoramic sunroof with an additional dark sunshade and a state-of-the-art camera array that employs AI technology to provide a comprehensive view around the vehicle when needed. The wireless phone charging capability has been upgraded from 15W to 50W, ensuring rapid charging of devices.
The new Tiggo 7 Pro Max is powered by Chery’s 1.6 TGDI turbocharged petrol Ateco engine that offers 145kW and 290Nm. This engine is now paired with a dual wet clutch seven-speed DCT transmission on both front wheel drive and all-wheel drive derivatives. The Tiggo 7 Pro Max two wheel drive is now available in South Africa and pre-orders are open for all-wheel drive models which will be arriving imminently.
All models are sold with a five-year/60 000km service plan and Chery’s renowned 1-million kilometre/10-year engine warranty.
Find your budget car – The new Citroën C3
First-time buyers or consumers in the market for a budget vehicle will certainly love the recently launched Citroën C3. With its funky styling and unique character, it stands out from the rest of the small car crowd and therefore promises to be a popular choice amongst younger buyers.
The Citroën C3 combines all the attributes people expect in this segment including affordability and style with unique features that make life on board and behind the wheel as comfortable and rewarding as possible. It is clear to see that the C3 has undergone a metamorphosis as it is now more of a budget crossover than a mid-sized hatchback. The C3 now offers improved ride height while roof rails and a dark grey roof further enhances its budget crossover status. The front of the C3 is instantly recognizable by the Citroën logo that is separated from the two horizontal chrome bars that extend towards the daytime running lamps on either side of the car.
The C3 offers a commanding driving and seating position, while the plunging bonnet, windscreen angle and side windows offer outstanding visibility. The C3’s interior is modern and well-designed while incorporating a variety of funky design elements that Citroën has become known for. Despite its compact exterior size, the interior is surprisingly roomy, as is the boot that can also be expanded by folding down the rear seats. Quality details finished in contemporary hues and materials adorn the door armrests and seats and add visual interest.
Upfront there is a 10-inch touchscreen, which acts as the hub for the infotainment system, which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone mirroring capability. Ahead of the driver is a colour TFT screen with up to six modes for displaying of vehicle information. Additional features include a multi-function steering wheel that features a voice activation button, electric windows, air conditioning, a 12-volt power socket, a USB port, and a variety of storage solutions. Occupant safety is taken care of by driver and passenger airbags, ABS braking with EBD and park distance control.
The new C3 is powered by Citroën’s acclaimed Puretech 1.2-litre, three-cylinder, naturally aspirated engine that offers 61kW and 115Nm. Power is transferred to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. This allows the C3 to offer a good balance between performance and fuel efficiency, with Citroën claiming that it will use just 5,6 litres per 100km on the combined cycle. A suspension set up that Citroën call the flying carpet effect prioritises comfort over all road surfaces and ensures a pleasant experience for the driver and passengers.
Off-road ready Ford Ranger Wildtrak X goes on sale
The exterior of the Wildtrak X is distinguished by a number of features including a new off-road grille featuring integrated auxiliary driving lights and Cyber Orange accent, a steel bash plate, cast aluminium side steps, Wildtrak X badges on the front doors and tailgate, black Ford badges, distinctive Wildtrak lettering across the bonnet and an asphalt black finish for the grille surround, bumper H-bar, wheel lip mouldings, fender vents, mirror caps, door handles and rear bumper.
The Wildtrak X is fitted with accented leather seats with Miko suede trim and Wildtrak X embroidered seat backs, upper glovebox and all-weather floormats. Terra suede adorns the glovebox, instrument cluster hood and door trim while the seats, steering wheel, gear shifter, doors and upper glovebox are finished with cyber orange contrast stitching. The high-tech cabin features an eight-inch fully digital instrument cluster and portrait orientated 12-inch touchscreen that is home to Ford’s SYNC 4 A infotainment system. The technology on offer includes a ten-speaker B&O premium sound system and built-in 400W/240v inverter.
The vehicle boasts a 30mm wider stance that provides an even more stable footprint off-road, while ground clearance is increased by 26mm, boosting the off-road ability. This was achieved thanks to the fitment of newly designed 17-inch alloys wrapped in 265/70 R 17 General Grabber AT3 all-terrain tyres complete with bold white lettering. Specially tuned Bilstein Position Sensitive Dampers provide sure-footed performance across a variety of surfaces. The Wildtrak X features seven driving modes that cover every day and off-road driving including Normal, Eco, Tow, Slippery, Mud/Ruts, Sand and Rock Crawl. The Wildtrak X is also equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance and safety systems including Active Park Assist, Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert and Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go and Lane Centering, Lane Departure Warning and a 360-degree camera as standard.
The Wildtrak X is the first Ranger to feature Ford’s pioneering Trail Turn Assist which works in four wheel drive off-road conditions to reduce the turning radius by up to 25 percent. This compliments Trail Control, which manages the vehicle’s acceleration and braking when traversing challenging terrain.
Trail Turn Assist helps drivers negotiate tight bends on narrow tracks by applying the brake on the inside rear wheel and thus reducing the turning radius. The system is designed to be used on loose surfaces at speeds under 19km/h and can be activated when the vehicle is engaged in either 4H or 4L and the rear differential is unlocked. The Wildtrak X is fitted with Ford’s 2.0-litre Bi-Turbo diesel engine that produces 154kW and 500Nm and is matched to a smooth shifting 10-speed automatic transmission. This is the first 2.0-litre Bi-Turbo model to be fitted with Ford’s on-demand four-wheel drive system that offers four modes including 4A (automatic), 4H for on-road driving, four-wheel drive high-range (4H) and low-range (4L) for more challenging off-road terrain.
The Ranger Wildtrak X also debuts Ford’s innovative Flexible Rack System, which is available as an option. Hidden in plain sight, it consists of two main components, a sliding load rack that can be locked in five positions along the length of the load bed and folding roof racks that store inside the roof rails when not in use. The system can be adjusted by one person and doesn’t require any tools to set up or stow. The Wildtrak X is also fitted with Ford’s overhead auxiliary switch pack for the seamless fitment of aftermarket accessories. The panel, which is mounted in the headliner is connected to a distribution box and six pre-wired circuits that run throughout the vehicle and can be used to power accessories such as external lights, a compressor, and other electrical items.
Jaguar celebrates end of an era with special edition F-Type
Jaguar will commemorate the end of their internal combustion sports car lineage in 2024 with a limited-edition F-Type inspired by two iconic 1960s racing E-Types. The Jaguar F-Type ZP Edition marks the end of internal combustion sports cars designed by Jaguar and just 150 examples of this special edition will be available globally and only two units will make their way to South Africa. The 423kW supercharged petrol V8 F-Type features specially curated interior and exterior details courtesy of the experts at SV bespoke.
The F-Type has captivated sports car drivers for more than a decade, just as the E-Type did five decades before it. As Jaguar embarks on the boldest transformation in its history, to become a modern luxury all-electric brand from 2025, the F-Type ZP is an unrepeatable celebration of Jaguar’s internal combustion sports car provenance.
The F-Type ZP Edition will be available in two colourways, recalling the first race winning Project ZP E-Types campaigned shortly after that model’s launch in 1961. These combinations include Oulton Blue Gloss paint with Mars Red and Ebony duotone leather interior or Crystal Grey Gloss paint with Navy Blue and Ebony duotone leather interior. Both feature Porcelain White Gloss hand-painted racing-style roundels on the doors and Porcelain White Gloss grille surrounds.
Unique interiors with horizontal seat fluting, gloss black exterior accents and gloss black brake callipers, complement exclusive F-Type ZP Edition branding details on the fenders, gloss black diamond turned 20-inch forged alloy wheels, tread plates and dashboard. A one of 150 SV Bespoke commissioning plaque confirms its exclusivity.
The F-Type ZP Edition is available in coupé and convertible body styles but only the coupé will make its way to South Africa. The supercharged V8 offers 423kW and 700Nm and is paired to an all-wheel drive system with Intelligent Driveline Dynamics technology ensuring exceptional performance across all surfaces and the ability to complete the 0-100km/h sprint in 3,7 seconds on the way to an electronically limited top speed of 300km/h.
Mercedes-AMG GLE model range arrives in SA
Mercedes-AMG have updated their GLE SUV and Coupé model range in line with the recently updated GLE range. Upfront these updated models can be distinguished by newly designed LED daytime running lights while the 53 models now feature a revised front apron with expressively shaped side air intakes in a jet-wing design. The front fascia is now also distinguished by an AMG emblem instead of the Mercedes star, a feature of all AMG models going forward.
The GLE 53 4Matic+ combines sportiness with everyday practicality. The basis for the sporty driving experience is provided by the same 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine with twin turbochargers that offers 320kW, however thanks to larger turbochargers and a software update maximum torque has increased from 520Nm to 560Nm and along with that, the 0-100km sprint time has been improved to 5,0 seconds.
The GLE 63 S 4Matic+ appeals to customers who have no desire to compromise thanks to the proven 4.0-litre V8 biturbo AMG engine that boasts an output of 450kW and 850Nm and ensures powerful propulsion and a 3,9 second 0-100km/h sprint time. Fine-tuning of the software for the configuration of the ESP, the electronically controlled rear-axle limited slip differential, the fully variable AMG Performance 4Matic+ all-wheel drive and the suspension control system delivers a more dynamic and superior driving experience.
Both engines are electrified by means of an Integrated Starter Generator and a 48-volt electrical system. The ISG combines the starter and alternator into one powerful electric motor that is installed between the engine and transmission. The ISG performs hybrid functions such as boosting, recuperation, load point shifting, sailing and almost imperceptible restarting of the engine. The vehicle specification is now more closely aligned with customer demand resulting in significantly more standard equipment fitted than the previous model. For example, on the GLE 53 4Matic+ SUV an electric panoramic sliding sunroof, heated front seats, adaptive high beam assist and smartphone integration are now standard fare.
Also, standard fitment is the AMG Performance exhaust system, the Burmester sound system, the Memory Package, 360-degree Parking Pilot, Keyless Go Package and Blind Spot Assist as well as the latest generation AMG Performance steering wheel.
Toyota Vitz now with added X-Citement
Toyota has expanded their Vitz line up to now include the X-Cite derivatives, offering South African buyers the option of an affordable, yet stylish and attractive model. Finished with orange trim throughout, the X-Cite will appeal to the bold and daring. The exterior includes orange touches on various focal points around the vehicle including a garnish on the lower grille and the rear boot spoiler. The side mirrors are wrapped in black, grey, and orange decorative detail and that same colour palette is further replicated with distinctive X-Cite badging and the flash of orange on the protective black side moulding.
Inside, touches of orange do a great job of balancing the predominantly black interior as the air-vent cowls and gear lever frame bracket sport the orange tone. A spacious interior and 295 litre boot space make the Toyota Vitz a compelling choice in its segment. Standard convenience features include remote central locking, air-conditioning, steering wheel controls for telephony and audio functions and electric mirrors and windows. The X-Cite is fitted with an audio system that features Bluetooth, Aux and USB connectivity options. The Vitz XR X-Cite features a four-speaker sound system as part of the integrated touchscreen infotainment system that also offers Bluetooth and USB functionality as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Under the bonnet of the Vitz X-Cite the three-cylinder, 1.0-litre petrol engine does duty, producing 49kW and 89Nm. The Vitz X-Cite range is only available with a manual transmission and in five selected paint colours including Mystic Pearl White, Urban Silver, Dusk Grey, Jet Blue, and Shadow Black Pearl.