Bucket Seat: Suzuki Across GLX

I got to spend some time in two models of the Suzuki Across within a month of each other, the GL and the GLX models and while there are primarily the same car the GLX is the range topping model for a reason. As mentioned in my review of the GL, it's a car that Suzuki needed to show the world they can make a premium level car and not just budget friendly models that rely more on price point than actual comfort and practicality. I spent a week with the Across GLX and share my thoughts in this post. 

DESIGN

Suzuki has never really been known for producing bold, premium-looking SUVs, but the new Across GLX Mild Hybrid changes that perception almost immediately. It's a design that feels like a significant step in the right direction for the brand. The front end is sharp and purposeful, with an imposing grille and sleek LED lighting giving it a far more upmarket appearance than we've come to expect from Suzuki. It strikes a balance between elegance and ruggedness without trying too hard, resulting in an SUV that looks mature and sophisticated. The proportions are well judged, the body lines are clean, and overall it has a confident road presence that makes it stand out in a crowded segment. It's refreshing to see Suzuki moving towards a more premium design language while still maintaining the practicality the brand is known for.

PERFORMANCE

Powering the Across GLX is Suzuki's 1.5-litre mild hybrid powertrain, and for everyday driving it delivers exactly what most South African buyers are looking for. Performance is smooth, predictable and more than adequate for commuting, school runs and long-distance cruising. The electric assistance helps the engine feel responsive when pulling away from traffic lights while also contributing to impressive fuel economy, making it an attractive option as fuel prices continue to fluctuate. The only area that doesn't quite impress is the gearbox. While it performs its duties competently, it can occasionally feel hesitant and lacks the refinement offered by some rivals. That said, once you're accustomed to its characteristics, it becomes easy to live with and doesn't detract significantly from the overall driving experience. For buyers prioritising efficiency, reliability and low running costs over outright performance, the Across delivers a well-rounded package.

COMFORT

Without question, this is one of the most comfortable Suzukis I've driven. The cabin immediately gives the impression that Suzuki has invested more attention into quality, with soft-touch materials, attractive textures and a layout that feels modern and well thought out. The seats provide excellent support whether you're navigating city traffic or spending hours on the highway, while passenger space in both rows is generous enough for family duties. The technology is another standout feature. The infotainment system is intuitive, smartphone connectivity works seamlessly, and features such as the excellent 360-degree camera make manoeuvring in tight parking spaces incredibly easy. It's one of those features you quickly become accustomed to and wonder how you managed without it. Combined with the quiet cabin and refined ride quality, the Across GLX genuinely feels like it belongs a class above many of Suzuki's previous offerings.

VERDICT

The Suzuki Across GLX Mild Hybrid represents a noticeable evolution for the brand. It looks more premium than ever before, offers excellent comfort, delivers impressive fuel economy and comes equipped with technology that buyers increasingly expect in this segment. While the gearbox could benefit from further refinement, it's a relatively small compromise in what is otherwise a very capable family SUV. The biggest talking point for South African buyers will undoubtedly be the pricing. The Across enters a fiercely competitive market filled with established rivals that offer strong value propositions, and that means Suzuki will need to convince buyers that its improved quality and generous specification justify the asking price. Even so, if you're looking for a comfortable, efficient and well-equipped SUV from a brand with an excellent reputation for reliability and affordability, the Across GLX deserves to be on your shortlist. It proves that Suzuki is no longer content with simply competing on value alone it now has the confidence to compete on quality, refinement and overall ownership experience as well.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	1.5-liter NA with 12V Mild Hybrid
Gear Box	6-Speed Automatic
Power	75.8kW
Torque	136.8Nm
Fuel Economy	6.4L per 100km
Price	R464,900.00

 

Bucket Seat: Renault Kiger 1.0L Turbo Iconic CVT

Renault's Kiger recently got an additional engine to it's line up, a 1.0L Turbo Petrol engine that gives the car more life. It's something that in my opinion the car needed as it's a decent affordable offering from the French manufacturer but the 1.5L naturally aspirated motor seemed a bit flat when I drove it earlier this year. The Kiger Turbo doesn't just stop at the engine upgrade but the interior has also been given some upgrades with the likes of ventilated front seats, combination of leathers and coloured stitching to name a few. I spent a week with the Kiger Turbo and here are my thoughts.

 DESIGN

The Renault Kiger has always been one of the more distinctive compact SUVs in the South African market, and the 2026 Turbo model continues to build on that formula. While the overall shape remains familiar, the Kiger still manages to stand out with its bold front-end styling, muscular wheel arches and raised ride height that gives it genuine SUV appeal. The front grille and lighting signature give the vehicle a modern appearance, while the sporty stance adds a touch of character that many rivals in this segment often lack. Inside, Renault has made noticeable improvements to the cabin. One of the biggest highlights is the upgraded interior quality. The materials used throughout the cabin feel more premium than before, helping the Kiger move a step closer to more expensive competitors. The different textures used on the seats add a welcome sense of sophistication and break away from the plain finishes commonly found in this segment. The result is a cabin that feels more inviting and modern, while still maintaining the practicality that buyers in this class expect.

PERFORMANCE

The biggest improvement to the 2026 Renault Kiger comes from its turbocharged engine. Compared to the naturally aspirated alternative, the turbo unit delivers noticeably better performance, making the vehicle feel far more responsive in everyday driving conditions. Whether pulling away from traffic lights, overtaking on the highway or climbing inclines, the extra power and torque provide a more confident driving experience. The turbocharged engine feels well suited to South African driving conditions, particularly for motorists who frequently travel on open roads where overtaking performance is important. Despite the improved performance, the engine remains relatively efficient, striking a good balance between fuel economy and power. The Kiger may not be the quickest vehicle in the segment, but it offers enough punch to make daily driving enjoyable without sacrificing affordability.

COMFORT

Comfort has also seen meaningful improvements. The upgraded seat materials not only enhance the overall look of the cabin but also contribute to a more pleasant driving experience. The seats provide adequate support for both short city commutes and longer journeys, while the elevated seating position gives drivers excellent visibility of the road ahead. Technology is another area where the Kiger impresses. The addition of wireless smartphone connectivity is a feature that many South African buyers will appreciate. Being able to connect a smartphone without cables adds convenience to everyday use and helps keep the cabin free from clutter. The infotainment system is intuitive to operate, while the spacious cabin and practical luggage area ensure that the Kiger remains a strong family-friendly option. Road and wind noise are reasonably controlled for a vehicle in this price category, and the suspension does a commendable job of absorbing imperfections commonly found on South African roads. This results in a comfortable and relaxed driving experience for both driver and passengers.

VERDICT

The 2026 Renault Kiger Turbo represents a meaningful step forward for Renault's compact SUV. The improved turbocharged engine brings a welcome boost in performance, the upgraded interior materials create a more premium feel, and the addition of wireless phone connectivity adds a level of convenience that modern buyers expect. For South African consumers looking for an affordable compact SUV that offers attractive styling, practical space, improved refinement and enjoyable performance, the Kiger Turbo makes a compelling case for itself. While competition in this segment remains fierce, Renault has addressed some of the key areas that needed improvement, resulting in a vehicle that feels more complete than ever before. Overall, the 2026 Renault Kiger Turbo is a well-rounded package that combines value, practicality and modern features, making it one of the more appealing options for buyers seeking a compact SUV without stretching their budget.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	1.0-liter Turbo
Gear Box	X-tronic CVT
Power	74kW
Torque	160Nm
Fuel Economy	6.0L per 100km
Price	R329,999

Bucket Seat: Suzuki Across GL 1.5 Automatic

The partnership between Toyota and Suzuki seemed pretty one-sided over the years with South African's getting used to seeing a lot Suzuki models being re-badged as Toyota's. They were not even subtle about it, in most cases it was the exact same car just with a differed logo and name, while having the Toyota name to the model did boost sales for the brand, it did mean that the cars with their actual badge on it didn't sell as well as they thought it would. Fast forward to a couple of months ago, Suzuki unveiled their all new SUV/ Crossover the Across. This was something different from the brand as they stepped up from their usual small/ budget offering to something more mid-sized and premium. The design was bold and different, fitted with 1.5 Mild Hybrid it makes an interesting addition to the South African market because it represents a shift in what buyers expect from Suzuki. Step inside the Across and then things start to look a bit familiar, its clear that there's a lot that the Across shares with the locally manufacturer Corolla Cross. I spent a week with the mid level GL Automatic and I share my thoughts on it. 

DESIGN

From a styling perspective, the Across is arguably one of the best-looking vehicles Suzuki has launched locally in recent years. It carries a mature and upmarket appearance with a bold front grille, sharp LED lighting signatures and sculpted body lines that give it a confident road presence. The proportions strike a balance between urban sophistication and SUV ruggedness, while the raised ground clearance and alloy wheels ensure it still looks at home on South African gravel roads. It is not an overly flashy design, but it has enough character to stand out in a crowded segment without becoming polarising.

PERFORMANCE

Under the bonnet sits Suzuki's familiar 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine paired with a 12-volt mild hybrid system. Outright performance is not the Across's primary focus, and drivers expecting hot hatch levels of acceleration may find the power delivery a little relaxed, especially when carrying a full load of passengers and luggage. However, the mild hybrid assistance helps smooth out acceleration in everyday driving and makes stop-start traffic considerably more refined. Where the Across truly excels is fuel economy. Suzuki's mild hybrid technology quietly works in the background by recovering energy during braking and assisting the petrol engine when needed, helping to keep fuel consumption impressively low. In a country where fuel prices continue to rise, a family SUV capable of delivering excellent economy is a major advantage. Whether it is the daily commute, a business trip or a holiday journey to the coast, the Across promises low running costs that will appeal to budget-conscious South African motorists.

COMFORT

The cabin of the Across has been designed with practicality and comfort in mind. The seats provide good support for long-distance travel, while the spacious interior offers generous legroom for both front and rear passengers. The driving position is comfortable, visibility is excellent and the suspension does a commendable job of absorbing rough road surfaces and potholes, making it well suited to local driving conditions. Road and wind noise are also well controlled, creating a relaxed environment for both the driver and passengers. Suzuki has ensured that the Across remains competitive when it comes to modern technology. The infotainment system features a large touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, allowing effortless smartphone integration. A digital instrument display adds a modern touch to the dashboard, while features such as wireless charging, cruise control, rear parking sensors and a reverse camera make daily driving easier. Safety has also been prioritised, with multiple airbags, electronic stability control and Isofix child seat mounts providing reassurance for families.

VERDICT

The biggest strength of the Suzuki Across GL 1.5 Mild Hybrid is that it understands exactly what its target audience wants. It is not trying to be the fastest SUV on the market or compete with premium European rivals. Instead, it focuses on delivering reliability, excellent fuel economy, generous standard equipment and sensible ownership costs in an attractive package. For South African consumers, that combination is particularly appealing. Rising fuel prices, increasing vehicle costs and the need for a practical family car make the Across a compelling option. While some buyers may wish for a little more power, the majority will appreciate its refined driving experience, low running costs and comfortable cabin far more than outright performance. Overall, while I did say at the beginning there are some shared items from the Corolla Cross, the Across feels like a whole different car. For buyers looking for a dependable and economical SUV that can comfortably handle both city life and long-distance travel, the Across is a vehicle that deserves serious consideration.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	1.5-liter NA with 12V Mild Hybrid
Gear Box	6-Speed Automatic
Power	75.8kW
Torque	136.8Nm
Fuel Economy	6.4L per 100km
Price	R372,000.00

Bucket Seat: Suzuki Grand Vitara GLX

Anyone who has been keeping an eye on the NAAMSA monthly sales figures would have noticed that Suzuki sales has been surged over the last year and with good reason too. The Swift remains one of the most reliable and affordable budget friendly options when it comes to an entry level hatch back, its solid, it's comfortable and most importantly, its light on fuel. The rest of their line-up has also been picking up, with the likes of the Jimny being a firm favourite for many. With their JV with Toyota which see's a lot of their vehicles wear the Toyota badge, it has done them some harm with the consumer opting to go for the bigger Japanese name rather than the Suzuki, when the new shape Grand Vitara was first launch, Suzuki SA thought they'd hold the trump card by only offering Toyota SA to sell the 1.5L naturally aspirated engine while they had exclusivity over the 1.5L Hybrid, unfortunately for Suzuki, the price of this Hybrid model saw them sitting with stock as many opted for the Toyota version or if they wanted a Hybrid, they went and bought the Corolla Cross XS which was not a lot more than the Grand Vitara. After burning their fingers, Suzuki decided to can the Hybrid and bring their 1.5L N/A model to compete directly with the Toyota Urban Cruise but offering a bit more. I spent some time with this model and here are my thoughts.

DESIGN

The Suzuki Grand Vitara doesn’t scream for attention but it doesn’t need to. It’s one of those SUVs that grows on you the more you look at it. Up front, you’ve got a bold, upright stance with a layered grille and sharp LED lighting that gives it a modern edge, while the clamshell bonnet and squared-off proportions subtly nod to its heritage. Around the back, the clean surfacing and light bar keep things contemporary without overcomplicating the design. It’s not flashy like some of the Korean alternatives, but there’s an honesty to it that works. Whether you’re pulling up in Sandton or heading out onto a gravel road, it looks perfectly at home in the South African landscape. The little details they add to the exterior of the car make the Grand Vitara stand out more than the Urban Cruiser, the chrome accents, LED lighting and panoramic sunroof give the Suzuki so much more character. 

PERFORMANCE

Under the bonnet, the Grand Vitara is powered by a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, and you feel exactly what that suggests. Around town, it’s smooth and easy-going, making it perfectly suited to daily commuting and stop-start traffic. It doesn’t feel strained in normal driving, and it delivers power in a predictable, linear way. However, the moment you push it whether it’s overtaking on the highway or tackling a steep incline with passengers it starts to feel a bit out of its depth. The 4-speed automatic gearbox adds to that feeling, as it’s more about reliability than responsiveness, and can come across as slightly dated compared to newer transmissions. That said, the bigger picture tells a different story. Fuel consumption is impressively low, which is a major advantage given South Africa’s fuel prices, and the mild-hybrid system helps smooth out low-speed driving while improving efficiency even further. It’s not built to excite, but it is built to make financial sense.

COMFORT

This is where the Grand Vitara really comes into its own. The ride quality is genuinely impressive, soaking up bumps, potholes, and uneven road surfaces with a level of composure that feels tailor-made for South African conditions. It’s the kind of car that makes long-distance driving feel effortless rather than tiring. The cabin is well insulated, keeping road and wind noise to a minimum, which adds to that relaxed driving experience. Inside, there’s enough space for five adults to sit comfortably without feeling cramped, and while the boot isn’t the biggest in the segment, it’s practical enough for everyday use. The seats are supportive and comfortable, making it a great companion for both daily commutes and longer road trips. It’s not trying to be luxurious, but it gets the fundamentals of comfort absolutely right.

TECHNOLOGY

Suzuki has equipped the Grand Vitara with all the essentials you’d expect from a modern SUV, without going overboard. The infotainment system is easy to use and integrates seamlessly with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while features like wireless charging, keyless entry, and a reverse camera add everyday convenience. Everything works as it should, and that’s really the point there’s no unnecessary complexity or gimmicks. On the safety side, it’s well covered with multiple airbags, stability control, and driver assistance features that give you peace of mind on the road. It may not have the cutting-edge tech you’d find in more premium offerings, but it delivers where it counts for the average South African driver.

VERDICT

The Suzuki Grand Vitara isn’t trying to be the fastest, the flashiest, or the most high-tech SUV in its class, and that’s actually its biggest strength. It focuses on what really matters in South Africa, like fuel efficiency, comfort on less-than-perfect roads, reliability, and overall affordability. If you’re looking for something thrilling, this isn’t it. But if you want a dependable, comfortable, and cost-effective SUV that fits seamlessly into everyday life, it makes a very compelling case for itself. It’s not the car you show off about at a braai, but it’s the one that quietly proves its worth every single day.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	1.5-liter Naturally Aspirated
Gear Box	4-Speed Automatic
Power	77kW
Torque	138Nm
Fuel Economy	5.6L per 100km
Price	R453,900.00

Bucket Seat: Renault Captur Esprit Alpine

When Renault first launched the Captur, it was dubbed "the Clio on stilts" which in essence what the car really is, a crossover variant of the much loved hatch-back. The trend continued with face-lifts and newer models but when Renault launched the latest version of the Captur last year, there was a clear difference with this new one, it was here to create it's own identity. Bearing the Esprit Alpine name badge the car already feels special and with the re-designed front end, it looks the part too. I got to spend a week with the car and here are my thoughts on it. 

DESIGN

There’s something about the Renault Esprit Alpine that just hits differently, and a lot of that comes down to how it looks. This isn’t your typical safe, slightly bland compact SUV it’s genuinely sexy. The sharp LED lighting, sculpted body lines and coupe-SUV stance give it a presence that feels far more premium than you’d expect at this level. In Alpine trim, the detailing adds just enough sportiness without overdoing it, and it’s the kind of car you find yourself looking back at after parking. Not because you have to, but because you want to. The front end is futuristic and classy, with details that just add a different dynamic to any other Renault on the market. The details don't just stop there, it extends to the large 19-inch alloy wheels which are finished off in black, and while the rear remains mostly the same as the previous model, the details on the LED lighting make it look different. 

PERFORMANCE

Under the bonnet, the 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol engine might not sound like much on paper, but out on the road, it tells a different story. It’s got a gutsy, eager nature that suits everyday driving perfectly. Around town, it feels responsive and lively, with enough low-down torque to make stop-start traffic and quick gaps feel effortless. It’s not trying to be a performance SUV, and it doesn’t need to be  it delivers exactly what most South African drivers are looking for: usable, accessible power without feeling strained. Push it harder and it does start to lose a bit of breath at the top end, but in real-world conditions, it rarely feels lacking. The 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox complements the engine well and, for the most part, delivers a smooth and refined driving experience. In normal driving conditions, shifts are quick and almost unnoticeable, giving the car a polished feel that you really appreciate on a daily basis. There is the occasional hesitation when you demand sudden acceleration, especially during overtakes, but once you get familiar with its behaviour, it becomes easy to manage. For the majority of driving scenarios, it remains silky and fuss-free.

COMFORT

Comfort in the Esprit Alpine strikes a nice balance. The ride is slightly on the firmer side, likely due to the larger wheels and sportier setup, but it never crosses the line into being uncomfortable. Instead, it gives the car a more planted and confident feel, especially at higher speeds. Long-distance driving is easy and relaxed, with supportive seats that keep fatigue at bay. On rougher South African roads, you will feel some of the imperfections coming through, but it’s a compromise that makes sense considering the car’s styling and overall character. Step inside, and this is where the Renault really starts to impress. The interior layout is clean, modern and thoughtfully put together, with a strong focus on the driver. The Alpine touches elevate the space, adding a sporty yet premium feel without being over the top. Materials and finishes are generally well chosen, and everything feels intuitive to use. It’s a cabin that doesn’t just look good  it feels like a place you’d genuinely enjoy spending time in, whether it’s a short commute or a longer journey. Despite its sporty, sloping roofline, the Esprit Alpine manages to offer impressive space inside. Rear passengers have enough room to sit comfortably without feeling cramped, which is often where coupe-style SUVs fall short. The boot is also practical enough for everyday use, handling everything from grocery runs to weekend getaways with ease. It’s a car that manages to balance style with real-world usability, which is exactly what many buyers are after. In terms of technology, the Esprit Alpine comes well-equipped with all the essentials you’d expect. The infotainment system supports smartphone connectivity, there’s a digital driver display, and multiple driving modes add a bit of versatility to the driving experience. Safety-wise, you’re covered with the basics like stability control and traction control, although some of the more advanced driver assistance systems are either limited or optional depending on the spec. That said, it still feels modern and functional enough for most buyers.

VERDICT

The Renault Esprit Alpine doesn’t try to be everything, and that’s exactly why it works so well. It delivers a combination of standout design, solid everyday performance, comfort and a genuinely premium-feeling interior, all in a package that feels a bit more special than the average compact SUV. For South African consumers who want something stylish yet practical, and refined without being overly expensive, it hits a very sweet spot. It’s not perfect the gearbox can hesitate at times, the ride is slightly firm, and it could do with more advanced safety tech but overall, it’s a compelling and well-rounded offering that proves you don’t have to sacrifice personality for practicality.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	1.3L Turbo Petrol
Gear Box	7-Speed EDC
Power	113kW
Torque	270Nm
0-100km/h	9.6 Seconds
Price	R614,999

Bucket Seat: Renault Kiger

Renault has refresh the looks on their Kiger and was launched late last year, like the Triber, the differences are just cosmetic with the underpinnings and power plant remaining the same as the previous model. The Crossover Coupe styling has always been a favourite of mine, with it sharing the same platform as the Nissan Magnite, I found that the Renault version just looked better on the road. The design changes of the new model give the Kiger a more streamline and mature. The interior remains virtually the same and unfortunately so does the build quality. Here are my thoughts on it after spending a week with the Kiger. 

DESIGN

The updated Renault Kiger doesn’t reinvent itself, but it certainly refines what was already a distinctive design. Compared to the outgoing model, the front end feels more assertive, with a revised grille and updated Renault badging that give it a cleaner, more modern identity. The LED lighting signature looks sharper and more premium than before, while subtle bumper revisions add visual width. It still carries that high-riding, compact SUV stance that South Africans love, but now it does so with a bit more polish. Down the sides, the familiar sculpted body lines remain, yet new wheel designs help freshen up the look. The rear styling benefits from cleaner detailing, and overall the Kiger now feels less like a budget-focused crossover and more like a properly resolved compact SUV. It still turns heads for its coupe-inspired roofline and contrasting roof options, but the facelift gives it just enough visual maturity to stay competitive in a very crowded segment.

PERFORMANCE

Under the bonnet, the Kiger manual continues with the naturally aspirated 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine. On paper, outputs remain modest, and that translates directly into the driving experience. Around town, however, the engine feels perfectly adequate. It’s light on fuel, easy to manage, and well suited to daily commuting. The throttle response is predictable, and in urban conditions the Kiger feels nimble and unintimidating. Once you venture onto the highway, though, you become more aware of its limitations. Overtaking requires planning, and you’ll need to work through the gears to extract the most from the small engine. It’s not slow in a dangerous way, but it’s certainly not eager. This is a vehicle designed for efficiency and affordability rather than performance. The five-speed manual gearbox complements the engine’s character. The clutch is light enough for daily traffic, and the shift action is straightforward and easy to get used to. It isn’t particularly slick or sporty, and at times the shift feel can be slightly notchy, but for the target market it does the job without fuss. For buyers who still prefer the engagement and control of a manual transmission, especially at this price point, it remains a sensible and cost-effective choice.

COMFORT

Step inside and you’ll immediately notice that Renault has worked to make the cabin feel more refined than before. The updated trim finishes and dual-tone interior give it a fresher, more upmarket ambience. While hard plastics are still present, as expected in this segment, the overall layout feels neat and modern rather than cheap. Seat comfort is commendable for a vehicle in this class. The front seats offer decent support for longer journeys, and the elevated seating position gives you that SUV-like sense of command over the road. Rear passengers benefit from surprisingly good space, especially considering the Kiger’s compact footprint. For young families or small households, it strikes a practical balance between size and comfort. Noise insulation also feels improved compared to earlier versions. Engine noise is noticeable under hard acceleration, which is typical of a three-cylinder motor, but at cruising speeds the cabin remains reasonably composed. The infotainment system, centred around an 8-inch touchscreen on higher trims, adds a layer of modern connectivity with smartphone integration, making the Kiger feel current and competitive in daily use. One of the Kiger’s strongest attributes has always been practicality, and that continues with this updated model. The boot space is genuinely impressive for the segment, offering around 405 litres of luggage capacity. That figure places it among the leaders in the compact SUV category in South Africa. Whether it’s weekly groceries, school bags, or weekend luggage, the Kiger handles it with ease. The rear seats fold down to expand cargo capacity further, making it surprisingly versatile for road trips or larger loads. Cabin storage is also well thought out, with multiple compartments and cup holders adding everyday convenience. For buyers who need maximum practicality in a compact footprint, the Kiger delivers far more space than its exterior dimensions suggest.

VERDICT

In the context of the South African market, where affordability, fuel efficiency and practicality remain key decision factors, the Renault Kiger manual makes a compelling case for itself. It doesn’t pretend to be sporty or premium, but it offers honest value. The design updates keep it looking fresh, the interior improvements enhance daily comfort, and the generous boot space makes it especially appealing for families. The naturally aspirated engine paired with the manual gearbox is best suited to urban and suburban life rather than high-speed highway driving. Buyers who prioritise spirited performance may find it lacking, but those looking for a reliable, economical and well-packaged compact SUV will appreciate what it offers. Ultimately, the Renault Kiger manual remains one of the most sensible and practical entry points into the compact SUV segment in South Africa. It’s not about excitement — it’s about smart ownership, everyday usability and strong value for money.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	1L N/A 3 cylinder
Gear Box	5-Speed Manual
Power	53kW
Torque	96Nm
Average Fuel Consumption	6.5L per 100km (as tested)
Price	R329,329