New model releases January 2023
(JOHANNESBURG, South Africa) 1 February 2023 – Between October 2022 and January 2023, Motus helped provide several exciting new vehicle models to the market.
Motus Chief Executive Officer Osman Arbee says: “Today’s motorists need modern solutions, so we are proud to help provide greater choice to more people.” As South Africa’s largest importer, distributor and retailer of motor vehicles, Motus works hard to offer new vehicle releases first.
Below is an overview of the exciting introductions and developments in motor vehicles:
Hyundai rejuvenates Venue – Hyundai’s popular Venue has been refreshed with updated styling and a revised line up of derivatives. The Venue range continues with three specification levels and two engine option and three specification levels: the Motion as an entry level derivative, the Fluid with more design and convenience features and the new N Line variant with its unique signature design features, equalling a total of six variants in the 2022 model line-up.
A new cascading grille and front end incorporates Hyundai’s signature design DNA. The bold new grille features wider dimensions as well as a cascading chocolate-slab appearance. On Fluid and N Line versions the daytime running lights are housed in separate clusters. The N Line boasts its own bespoke grille adorned with N Line logo. The side profile exhibits full-volume wheel arches and strong character lines.
The Venue’s interior offers intuitive controls and forward thinking design, a spacious cabin and a decently sized luggage area. The rear seat in Fluid and N Line derivatives is able to split in a 60/40 fashion, while Motion derivatives feature a solid seat back that can also be folded forward.
A leather-wrapped steering wheel includes audio and cruise control buttons on select models. The infotainment system now has an eight-inch display audio touchscreen system that incorporates a rear view monitor as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality. Ahead of the driver is a 4.2-inch Supervision TFT LCD display.
The comprehensive list of standard safety includes six-airbags, seatbelt pretensioners with force limiters, Isofix child seat mounts, EBD and ABS. 1.0 Motion, Fluid and N Line variants are also fitted with Hill Start Assist Control.
The new Venue range features models utilising two different engines. The four-cylinder Kappa 1.2- litre MPi petrol engine offers 61kW and 115Nm. This model is fitted to Motion derivatives and is paired with a five-speed manual transmission.
The three-cylinder Kappa 1,0-litre TGDi petrol engine delivers 88kWand 172Nm from 1500rpm. This turbocharged engine does duty in Motion, Fluid and N Line models and can be paired with either a six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed Dual Clutch Transmission. Fuel consumption was measured at 6,5 litres per 100km in the manual model and 6,6 litres per 100km for the dual clutch version.
New Renault Trafic is ready to work – The fourth generation Renault Trafic panel van strengthen its offering in the medium panel van segment with a vehicle that is perfectly suited to the needs and expectations of craftsmen and the fleet business. It features an updated, more robust and dynamic front face with full LED lights as standard, reinforcing its DNA as an elegant and dynamic van.
The completely redesigned cabin is comfortable, ergonomic and designed in such a way that it doubles as a modern office. The new Trafic offers power adjustable mirrors, comfortable upholstery and new door panels with wider armrests. By folding down the backrest of the middle seat, the cabin is transformed into a mobile office with enough space for a laptop and an A4-size swivel stand to easily hold any working documents. The easy to use infotainment system features an integrated R7Go radio, Bluetooth as well as USB and Aux ports.
It is fitted with a 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine, which is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox. This configuration offers an increase in both power and torque compared to the previous model boasting 125kW at 3500rpm and 380Nm at 1500rpm and equipped with Eco mode, which offers improved overall efficiency.
Alfa Romeo launches Tonale – Alfa Romeo has launched their Tonale, a contender in the hotly contested compact SUV segment. The Tonale boasts a host of Alfa Romeo design cues, a hybrid engine configuration and a focus on driving enjoyment that should see it stand out from the crowd.
Subtle touches make the Tonale distinctively Alfa Romeo, including a GT Line that runs from the headlights to the rear, while the front features the inimitable Trilobo and the distinctive Alfa Romeo Scudetto shield, which acts as a central focus. The 3+3 headlights with full-LED Adaptive Matrix technology create a unique look while providing daylight running lights, dynamic turn signals and a welcome and goodbye feature.
The interior is strongly focused on the driver, with easy access to all controls. Passengers are given the ideal space to travel in comfort. The driver oriented dashboard is characterised by slim central air conditioning vents and distinctive turbine side vents.
The Tonale is fitted with a 118kW Hybrid VGT engine that has been exclusively developed for Alfa Romeo. This 1.5-litre turbocharged engine is paired with a 48-volt 15kW, 55Nm P2 electric motor and a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission that drives the front wheels. The Tonale is capable of being driven on electric power only, at low speeds. Veloce and Speciale models are also fitted with exclusive aluminium shift paddles.
The Tonale features Independent McPherson suspension with Frequency Selective Damping technology, excellent weight distribution, direct steering and an Integrated Brake system, all of which result in a vehicle that is rewarding to drive in conjunction with its inherent features such as a high roof and high ground clearance.
Updated Audi S8 combines luxury and performance – The all-new Audi S8 TFSI Quattro combines luxury and performance along with the latest technology to offer an unsurpassed driving and digital user experience.
The sharpened design of the exterior is now even more representative, confident and athletic. The base of the single frame grille is now wider and is adorned with chrome angles that increase in size
from the bottom to top. The headlights are freshly styled, with a lower edge that creates a distinctive contour. Side air intakes are now more upright. These updated elements all combine to significantly increase the S8’s presence and authority, while sharpening its profile as the brand’s flagship design.
The S8 is fitted with a biturbo V8 that offers 420kW and 800Nm, which gives this vehicle the capability to sprint from a standstill to 100km/h in 3.8 seconds. The engine is paired to an eight-speed Tiptronic gearbox, which works in conjunction with a self-locking sport differential to actively distribute torque between the rear wheels, making handling sportier and more stable.
Inside the S8 offers high levels of comfort for both the driver and passengers. The optional rear seat package delivers a three-seat system with two electrically adjustable individual seats, which includes electrical adjustment of the longitudinal seat position, backrest angle and backrest head adjustment.
The Audi S8 quattro is fitted with a variety of standard equipment including dynamic all wheel steering, adaptive cruise control, Audi connect2X and infotainment services, predictive active suspension, Valcona leather upholstery with diamond stitching, seat ventilation and massage function, Bang & Olufsen Premium Sound with 3D and Audi virtual cockpit Plus.
All-new Ford Everest goes on sale – Ford has launched an all-new Everest, which blends adventure- ready capability with passenger comfort and customer focussed technology in a rugged yet refined SUV. With this new generation the Everest also shares substantially less with the Ranger and is now firmly positioned as a stand-alone product.
Two grades are available at launch including the Everest Platinum, which focuses on luxury and performance and is fitted with the new 3.0-litre V6 turbo diesel engine and Ford’s advanced 10-speed automatic, linked to a permanent all-wheel drive system.
Alternatively, the Everest Sport is powered by a 2.0-litre Bi-Turbo diesel engine, mated to a 10-speed automatic gearbox. This model employs an electronic part-time four-wheel drive system.
The new Everest is sleek and modern, featuring a wider track and longer wheelbase, which gave designers the opportunity to create a more progressive, muscular appearance. Ford’s global DNA is evident in the C-clamp headlamps and strong horizontal upper grille bar amidst horizontal and vertical elements, which add to the stable appearance. The side profile features a strong shoulder line front to back, while the wider track results in a more dramatic swell over the wheels.
The high-quality and refined interior takes inspiration from modern homes by featuring plush materials, premium finishes and ambient lighting. The sense of spaciousness is amplified by a full- width instrument panel and centre console with dual cup holder recesses.
The Everest Platinum features wireless charging, an electric parking brake and leather trimmed e- shifter as well as heated and ventilated 10-way power adjustable front seats.
Ford’s proven 3.0-litre V6 turbo diesel engine has been refined and now offers 184kW and 600Nm in the Platinum derivative. The Everest Sport is fitted with the proven 2.0-litre BiTurbo diesel engine that produces 154kW and 500Nm. Both engines are paired with a 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission.
A 50mm increase in track helps deliver a more controlled ride on the road, while tweaks to damper settings improve control in all conditions. The Everest is ready to explore with a choice of two different four-wheel drive systems, under body protection, off-road selectable drive modes, a rear locking differential and upfitted switches for accessories.
Haval launches H6 hybrid – Haval are expanding their H6 offering with the launch of a top of the range hybrid derivative that goes by the H6 Hybrid Electric Vehicle model name. The H6 HEV is only available as one derivative, which is fitted with a large variety of features.
The Haval H6 Hybrid combines the technology of a turbo petrol engine with an electric motor as well as a self-charging battery and in doing so allows motorists to enjoy lower C02 emissions, increased performance, and a decreased combined fuel consumption figure of only 5,2 litres per 100km.
Under the bonnet is a 1.5-litre turbocharged hybrid engine that generates a very impressive 179kW and 530Nm of torque. Doing an excellent job of pairing the petrol and electric engines as well as transferring this power into forward momentum is an advanced two-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission.
The exterior styling matches the cutting-edge drivetrain and includes futuristic LED headlights and gloss black accents to the sporty rear spoiler and panoramic sunroof. 19-inch sporty alloy wheels, a pronounced front grille and confident curves set the tone while a subtle HEV (hybrid electric vehicle) badge adorns the rear tailgate.
The interior has been designed around the driver and features the latest technology and luxury equipment such as smart keyless entry, a modern 10.25-inch colour combination instrument cluster, 12,3-inch colour multi-touch screen and customisable head-up display.
Lexus IS refined ahead of 2023 model year – Since its launch last year the Lexus IS has re-invigorated the luxury medium class with an evocative design, imaginative technology and improved driving dynamics.
The hybrid market has shown immense growth in the past five years and the shift from diesel to alternative propulsion vehicles is expected to keep growing at a rapid rate, further supporting the company’s mission to reduce emissions.
The latest updates include the removal of the blue coloured logo, due to Lexus’ strategy to market and sell vehicles that fit into the brand’s New Energy Vehicle offering, which includes hybrids, plug- in hybrids and fully electric vehicles. The push start button has also been changed from blue to a gunmetal colour. F-Sport models now also feature a sunroof.
The IS is fitted with a 2.5 litre petrol-hybrid CVT that offers 133kW at 6000rpm and 221Nm at 4200rpm. Alongside the hybrid system this results in a total system power output of 164kW. The IS boasts a combined fuel consumption capability of 5,2 litres per 100km.
Standard equipment includes 18-inch alloy wheels on EX and SE models and 19-inch on the F-Sport grade. Inside a 10,3-inch touch display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto keeps passengers entertained. In addition to smart entry and start, heated and power adjustable front seats, dual-zone climate control, 10-speaker audio for EX grade and 17-speaker Mark Levinson sound for SE and F Sport grades, the SE and F Sport also come standard with satellite navigation, voice control and LED headlamps with automatic high beam.
Standard safety equipment includes a pre-collision system featuring day and night-time pedestrian and cyclist detection, all-speed active cruise control, lane tracing assist, blind spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert and brake, as well as a panoramic view monitor.
Nissan’s Magnite receives choice upgrades – Nissan has treated its Magnite to a number of choice upgrades, resulting in a Red Edition being added to the offering. This limited edition model is based on the popular Acenta trim, with the addition of red accents on the interior and exterior as well as a variety of additional features.
On the exterior, the red accents have been placed in a manner that enhances the distinctive shape of the Magnite. Sporty red brake calipers, exclusive badges and graphics as well as a chrome garnish on the tail door also make their appearance. The Red Edition is only available in conjunction with Onyx Black and Storm White exterior colours.
Inside the cockpit has been amplified with stylish red accents, a red-themed dashboard and LED scuff plates. Nissan’s eight-inch touch-operated infotainment system occupies pride of place in the interior and offers seamless connectivity through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
This limited edition model uses the same 1.0-litre turbocharged powerplant as the rest of the Magnite range and can be coupled to either a manual or CVT gearbox, the latter offering a smooth efficient driving experience, which is ideal for inner city traffic. The three-cylinder engine offers 74kW at 5 000rpm and 160Nm at 2 800rpm and is as frugal as it is powerful with an average fuel consumption figure of 5,27 litres per 100km or 6,0 litres per 100km depending on the gearbox chosen.
Toyota launches significantly improved GR86 – Toyota has updated their Toyota 86, while retaining the characteristics that define this vehicle and ensure that it offers pure unadulterated driving pleasure.
Sticking to these characteristics means retaining the classic front engine, rear-wheel drive layout as well as a familiar boxer engine. However, the latest model has received a significant upgrade in this area with the addition of a larger displacement 2.4-litre power plant, enhanced dynamics thanks to increased body rigidity, lighter weight and lower centre of gravity as well as sharper aesthetics as a result of adopting motorsports-sourced aerodynamic features.
The GT86 is now fitted with a boxer engine with a capacity of 2.4 litres that offers 174kW at 7 000rpm and 250Nm at 3 700rpm. This allows the manual model to sprint from 0-100km/h in 6.4 seconds on its way to a top speed of 226km/h while the automatic model will take 6.8 seconds to reach 100km/h on its way to a top speed of 216km/h.
The design blends functionality and stylish looks, both of which are critical for a classic sports car such as the GR86. The evolution of the taut, low-slung look expresses its classic front engine, rear-wheel drive set up. Short overhangs add to the agile look, together with a wide and low stance. The front and rear wings and cabin are individually accentuated, generating the dynamic feel of an authentic sports car with inspirations from icons such as the 2000GT and AE86 Corolla.
The interior design aims to deliver the best possible layout for usability and operation while giving the driver the widest possible field of vision. Around the driver, function controls are designed and located for ease of use. Newly-shaped front sport seats feature supportive pads, which are independent of each other, ensuring a slim design and good retention of the driver and front passenger during sporty driving.
Volvo revamps range for 2023 – Volvo has announced a variety of updates to its comprehensive range of vehicles ahead of the 2023 model year. These updates include the introduction of a new- trim level structure and move to hybrid powertrains for the popular XC40 line-up.
The facelifted XC40 compact SUVs will also adopt B-badging, which denotes a combined turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission that incorporates a 48-volt hybrid system. This offers numerous benefits including reduced tailpipe emissions, fuel savings and improved on-road performance. The addition of these models also means that every single Volvo sold in South Africa will now feature some form of electrification.
The revamped XC40 range now consists of the front-wheel drive B3 that offers 110kW and 265Nm as well as the B4 that offers 183kW and 350Nm. The all-wheel drive B5 boasts 183kW and 350Nm. The range is topped off by the fully electric single-motor P6 and the twin-motor P8 recharge variants.
The growing local demand for electrified vehicles and the introduction of these models brings Volvo South Africa’s offering in line with Volvo’s global ambition of transforming into a fully electric car company by 2030.
The entire XC40 range has also been treated to an exterior facelift that includes revised front and rear bumpers as well as redesigned headlights, new alloy wheel designs and fresh exterior colour choices. The option of a black roof is now reserved exclusively for fully electric models. All XC40 derivatives as well as all XC90 derivatives have received an upgrade to Volvo’s Android-powered infotainment system, which features built in Google apps and services.
Powerful VW Tiguan R goes on sale – Volkswagen has launched their most powerful SUV, the Tiguan R, in South Africa. This model morphs the performance of a sports car into the practicality of an SUV.
Under the bonnet is a two-litre, turbocharged engine that offers 235kW and 400Nm. Power is transferred to the road and into forward momentum by a newly developed four-wheel drive system called 4Motion with R-Performance Torque Vectoring, which improves handling agility, particularly when cornering. A seven-speed DSG transmission ensures smooth acceleration through the rev range. The Tiguan R is able to accelerate from 0-100km/h in 5.1 seconds on its way to a top speed of 250km/h.
A 10mm lower ride height, which is paired with DCC chassis adaptability, allows for shock absorber damping control via a variety of modes, including an additional R profile. This sporty mode can be activated via a blue R button on the new multi-function sports steering wheel, which also houses enlarged paddles for manual gear shifting.
The interior of the Tiguan R reflects its sporty exterior with premium Nappa leather seats incorporating an R logo, carbon grey decorative trim and a customised digital cockpit, that includes an integrated lap timer. Technology additions include the Discover Pro system with satellite navigation, wireless app-connect, voice control, keyless entry with safelock, an electric tailgate as well as a panoramic sunroof.
The Tiguan R can be enhanced even further with a wide variety of optional extras. These include a tow bar, area view camera system with park assist and park distance control, rear view camera as well as trailer manoeuvring system with park assist. IQ Drive includes adaptive cruise control, which can be coupled to lane change assist with side assist, park assist and autonomous emergency braking. Inside a head-up display, mobile inductive charging system and Harmon Kardon sound system can further enhance the already comprehensive standard offering. IQ. Light LED matrix headlights, an Akrapovic exhaust system and 21-inch alloy wheels can be added to enhance the sporty exterior design even further.