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Automotive 101, Pretoria (2026)

25/02/2025

has made a comeback in South Africa as they also make it to their 100th anniversary.

The all-new MG Cyberster comes to South Africa in one derivative, which is only the top-spec, with 375kW and 725Nm of tourqe from two electric motors which drives all-four-wheels. The car uses a 77 kWh lithium-ion battery, which supports 7 kW AC charging and 144 kW DC fast charging. The claimed range is 443 km and it is capable of 0-100km/h in just 3.2 seconds, with launch control with a top speed of 208kph.

The Cyberster rides on 20-inch alloy wheels with Brembo brakes and offers four drive modes (Comfort, Sport, Super Sport and Custom) as well as regenerative braking modes. Its electrically operated soft-too can be opened or closed in 15 seconds at speeds of up to 50 kph.

MG Cyberster pricing:
- R1,399,900.

Included in the price:
- 5-year/200,000km vehicle warranty.
- 7-year/250,000km powertrain warranty
- 5-year/100,000km maintenance plan.

The MG Cyberster faces a good competition from the Z4 M40i and the Mercedes-Benz CLE209 Cabriolet but it offers way more in terms of warranty and maintenance. With the pricing of over R1,000,000, is the Cyberster worth the price?

10/02/2025

The refreshed Toyota Corolla Cross brings a modern and sophisticated look to its exterior. A redesigned grille, now featuring a body-colored honeycomb pattern, immediately grabs attention. The LED Crystalized headlights, complete with sequential turn signals seamlessly integrated into Toyota emblem, add a touch of elegance.

Inside, the cabin has been upgraded to its a tech-forward design. A standout addition is the new panoramic frameless roof, which includes an electric sunshade. The digital cockpit feature a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and a 10.1-inch infotainment screen, both of which supports wireless Android and Apple CarPlay. Other notable features include wireless charging, Type-C ports, dual-zone climate control and an upgraded Toyota Safety Sense ADAS suit, ensuring enchanted safety and comfort.

Under the bonnet, buyers can choose between a naturally aspirated 1.8-liter petrol engine producing 103 kW and 172 Nm of torque or a hybrid powertrain that pairs a 1.8-liter engine engine with an electric motor for a combined output of 90 kW (which is slightly confusing). Power is delivered via either a Super CVT-i or and E-CVT gearbox depending on the variant.

offers a free 3-year/100,000km warranty and a 6-service/90,000km service plan.

The Toyota Corolla Cross has already established itself as a favorite among customers as it became the second-best-selling passenger car in 2023. With its refreshed looks and upgraded tech, can it maintain its position in the South African market with prices starting from R414,800 to R561,700?

17/01/2025

The All-New Chery Tiggo Cross serves as a replacement to the Tiggo 4 Pro.

The Tiggo Cross boasts a fresh design and modern technology. It is available in two trims: Comfort and Elite, both of which feature standout design elements such as 17 to 18-inch alloys, a gloss black grille, LED lights and some sporty accents in the Elite variant.

Both trims are powered by a 1.5L turbocharged engine that produces 108 kW and 210 Nm of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. This combination delivers a claimed fuel consumption of 6.5L/100km.

Inside the cabin, the Tiggo Cross offers a 10.25-inch dual display for the instrument cluster and infotainment system, which supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Key features include keyless entry, leather upholstery, and dual-zone climate control. The Elite trim adds premium features such as electrically adjustable seats, adaptive cruise control, a 360-degree view camera, automatic emergency braking and blind-spot detection.

prioritizes safety, equipping the Tiggo Cross with standard safety features such as ABS, stability control, hill-start assist, surround airbags, and more. Buyers are also covered with a 5-year/60,000 km service plan, a 5-year/150,000 km warranty, and a 10-year/1 million km engine warranty for the first owner.

Pricing starts from R399,900 for the Tiggo Cross 1.5T Comfort while, the Tiggo Cross 1.5T Elite is priced at R449,900.

What are your thoughts on the new Tiggo Cross? Tell us in the comments below.

🖊️:

27/03/2024

The Audi RS3 Sportback, a performance hot hatch offered by Audi, finished in a beautiful Python Yellow Metallic, is nothing short of stunning! With its sleek design, exceptional driving dynamics and agile handling, it’s an exhilarating experience offered by this pocket rocket!

The RS3 Sportback and Sedan are both powered by a 2.5L 5-cylinder engine that produces 294kW of power and 500Nm of torque. The RS3 sprints from 0-100 in 3.8 seconds. Quite similar to its predecessor, but due to some smart tweaking and technology by the company, it has resulted in more torque than the previous RS3. It now also features a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox, as well as a sporty exhaust system for this behemoth.

The exterior of the new RS3 is easily recognisable from as the new iteration of the car. It features a gapping front bumper with a new honeycomb grille that swallows the whole front of the car. The rear of the car houses large oval exhausts and a more sporty rear diffuser. It rides on 19-inch alloy wheels which are extremely gorgeous. Moving inside the RS3, it looks very sporty and comfortable also. It comes with Audi Virtual Cockpit as standard, with a Heads Up Display, making it for the first time in an RS3. There’s also RS Sports seats with contrast stitching Nappa Leather

Pricing:
1. Audi RS3 Sportback - R1 442 000

✍🏼/📷: .thela_

21/03/2024

With GR running in its DNA, this small pocket rocket redefines the meaning of a performance hot-hatch! Designed with enthusiasts and adrenaline filled individuals in mind, the Toyota GR Yaris performs exceptionally well, with agile handling and exhilarating driving capabilities, this is the Toyota GR Yaris!

The GR Yaris is powered by a 1.6L inline-3 engine, that outputs 200kW of power, and 370nm of torque. It does 0-100km/h in 5.5 seconds, through its all-wheel-drive system.

The interior of the GR Yaris is quite minimal and performance focused! It had these beautiful Recaro seats finished in alcantara leather. They are quite comfortable yet sporty. The display is quite small, and it’s quite disappointing, but that’s the least of your worries. All on all, the interior is gorgeous!

Pricing:
1. Toyota GR Yaris - R848 000

✍🏼/📹: .thela_

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18/03/2024

Opulence, refinement and luxury, the defining characteristics of the BMW X7 xDrive40d!

The BMW X7 xDrive40d is a luxury SUV offering by BMW! It is finished in a beautiful Skyscraper Metallic Grey, which looks gorgeous when hit by the sun or light. It has the formidable signature kidney grille, with split headlights, and glossy finishes. Of course, it gets the M-treatment, featuring equipment M Sport package; M Sport package Pro, 22” M Alloy wheels Double-spoke style 913M Bicolour with mixed tyres, Panorama glass roof Sky Lounge; M Sport exhaust system and M Sport brakes.

Inside, it’s finished in a Merino Grey leather trim, which is plush and very comfortable on those seats. Since it’s the ultimate SAV offering by BMW, it a three row seven seater, with electric seats all around. The driver has the option of lowering all back seats from a touch of a button in the front. It is surely a tech fest in the X7!

It is powered by a 3.0L inline-6 turbocharged diesel engine, producing 195kW of power and 620nm of torque. The power is delivered to all 4 wheels, which lets it do a sprint from 0-100km/h in 6.1 seconds.

Pricing:
1. BMW X7 xDrive40d - R2,205,557

✍🏼/📹: .thela_

12/03/2024

Unleash the Powerhouse, exploring the Audi RSQ8!

Finished in a beautiful Daytona Greyhound Pearlescent, with the optional Black Appearance Package Plus, black roof rails and RS styling package, it has a captivating design, blending sportiness, performance and luxury, aggressive styling, the RSQ8 has massive presence, it is versatile in every aspect!

Powered by a 4.0L twin-turbocharged V8, it packs 441kW of power and 800nm of torque. It sprints from 0-100km/h in 3.8 seconds. The RSQ8 shows its exhilarating performance capabilities, whilst transporting you in style and luxury!

The Audi RSQ8 comes with some awesome features to taste a touch of comfort and experience the luxurious drive, such as adaptive cruise control, adaptive air suspension sport, all-wheel steering wheel, 360-degree cameras, heated leather wrapped steering wheel, lane departure warning system with emergency assist, Audi pre sense rear, park assist plus, lane change assistance with exit warning system and rear cross traffic alert, touch-screen infotainment system with Audi connect and navigation, Bang & Olufsen sound system, four-zone climate control, heads-up display, Valcona leather seats, HD Matrix LED headlamps with dynamic light design and dynamic turn signals, a digital display which shows info about torque, performance, acceleration, lap times and G-force to name a few.

The Audi RSQ8’s cabin is specious which is most definitely caused by the wideness of the body and the rear foldable seats that can increase the boot space to 650 liters. Although some sporty and beauty features such as the coupe style slopping roof can eat up a lot of head room for the taller rear passengers but that’s the price you pay for the SUV that has been one of the fastest around the Nürburgring.

Pricing:
1. Audi RSQ8 - R2,852,651

✍🏼:
📸: .thela

09/03/2024

The BMW XM, a BMW 50 year celebration present, a predecessor of the M1, is a formidable addition to the BMW brand, blending sportiness, with luxury and comfort, a true definition of a Sports Activity vehicle! With its aggressive styling, advanced technology, and exhilarating driving dynamics, the XM redefines what it means to drive an SUV.

Under the hood, the BMW XM packs a punch with its high-performance engine options. With 480kW of power, and a range-topping powertrain that combines electrification with BMW’s legendary 4.4L TwinPower Turbo V8 technology, the XM delivers mind-blowing horsepower and torque figures that propel you from 0 to 100km/h in a mere 4.3 seconds. Whether you’re sprinting down the straightaways or carving through corners, the XM’s dynamic capabilities ensure an exhilarating driving experience every time you take the wheel.

Inside the cabin, BMW’s commitment to luxury and innovation is on full display. Premium materials, meticulously crafted surfaces, and advanced technology create an ambiance of refinement and sophistication. The latest BMW iDrive system provides intuitive access to a wealth of infotainment and connectivity features, while the available M Sport seats envelop you in comfort and support, whether you’re embarking on a long journey or tackling spirited drives, the XM is surely going to deliver, and exceed all your expectations!

27/02/2024

The untamed spirit of the jungle meets refined elegance of automotive excellence, the Jaguar F-Type R-Dynamic HSE. Finished in gorgeous Ostuni Pearl White, with Ebony perforated Windsor Leather Performance seats, it blends performance and luxury so effortlessly, while commanding your attention on every angle!

The Jaguar F-Pace R-Dynamic is powered by a 8-speed, 3.0-litre Supercharged inline-6 diesel engine, which outputs 221kW(300Hp) of power and 650Nm of torque. It has a top speed of 230 km/h and an acceleration of 6.4s from 0-100 km/h. It is paired for Jaguar’s intelligent all-wheel-drive system to ensure optimal traction and performance!

Stepping inside this Jaguar, you are greeted by luxury and opulence. The steering wheel feels luxurious and comfortable, with a gorgeous design and haptic buttons. It features a sliding panoramic sunroof, a pivi pro 11.4” Touch Screen, performance seats with embossed Jaguar badges, and a Meridian Sound system for that crisp and high quality audio! The F-Pace R-Dynamic HSE has a wide plethora of features baked into it!

Pricing:
1. Jaguar F-Pace R-Dynamic HSE - R1,692,500

📹/✍🏼: .thela_

19/02/2024

Performance, “R”edifined! The Volkswagen Golf R, the infamous and delayed performance hatchback from Wolfsburg, Germany, peeps through the curtains of the automotive world, in its gorgeous premium metallic Lapiz blue. With a gorgeous unibrow covering the front facia, blue disc calipers, and a premium interior, welcome, to the Volkswagen Golf 8R!

With the 2024 model just around the corner, we found it relevant to do a quick review of the current Golf 8R. The 8R is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four-cylinder engine, boasting a power output of 235kW and a torque figure of 400nm. The Golf R takes you from 0 to 100km/h in just 4.8 seconds. The engine pairs with either a six-speed manual or seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The 8R has a standard 4motion drivetrain that features a rear differential that can actively distribute torque between the left and right rear wheels for improved handling. It comes in a variety of driving modes, mainly, “Comfort, Sport, Race, Special, Drift and Individual.”

To conclude, although we have not gone behind the wheel of the Golf 8R, but reviewers are reporting blistering performance from the hatchback. It has good looks, and has a legacy behind it. It is surely a show stopper and head turner, with a lovely exhaust notes with its glorious farts. The few downsides are stock shortages in South Africa. Considering that Volkswagen has introduced a facelifted version of the Golf 8 dubbed the 8.5, the 8.5R is very close, and hopefully will be readily available for the customers than this version.

Price:

1. Golf 8R - Base price of R821 826, with options, R1 117 800.

📸/✍🏼: .thela_

12/02/2024

BMW i5 M60, Electrifying Performance Redefined! The BMW i5 M60 is a game-changer in the world of electric vehicles, blending cutting-edge technology with the unmistakable BMW performance pedigree. This sleek and sophisticated electric sedan not only pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in the realm of sustainable mobility but also delivers a driving experience that is nothing short of exhilarating.

From the moment you lay eyes on the i5 M60, its futuristic design language captivates you. The aerodynamic lines, coupled with BMW’s signature kidney grille and sleek LED headlights, create a visually stunning package that commands attention on the road. But it’s under the hood where the magic truly happens.

Powered by a potent electric drivetrain, the i5 M60 delivers instant torque and seamless acceleration that propels you from 0-100 km/h in 3.8 seconds. The M60 variant takes this performance to the next level, with enhanced power and agility.The i5 M60 packs 442kW (600Hp) of power. Utilising BMW’s fifth-generation eDrive motors, the regular i5 uses a single 247kW (335Hp), 330Nm electric motor positioned on the rear axle. For the M60 an extra 190kW (257Hp) motor is added into the mix on the front axle, with both combining for a total system output of 437kW (593Hp) and a maximum torque figure of 795Nm. The 81.2 kWh battery should provide a range of around 512 km for the i5 M60. Whether you’re navigating city streets or carving through winding mountain roads, the i5 M60 responds with precision and confidence, delivering a driving experience that is both exhilarating and environmentally conscious.

Offer Price for this BMW i5 M60:

R 2 334 000, Per Month R 36 965, Options R15 000.00.

✍🏽/📹: .thela_

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