Bucket Seat: GAC GS3 Emzoom R Style

GAC, the relatively new comer to the South African market has been established in the country for about a year now and one of the first cars they brought in was the GS3 hatchback. The popular one in the line up was the Emzoom R Style which is there "hot hatch" variant of the model. The car itself has grown popularity with the local market with quite a few being sold, it is a very attractive car as we will touch on the styling shortly but does the engine have enough grunt to substantiate its sport looks and appeal? I spend a few days with it to find out and here are my thoughts. 

DESIGN

If you like cars that make a statement, the Emzoom R-Style won’t disappoint, finished in Salt Lake Blue, the model was quite a looker with it commanding attention from everyone when I drove it. The R-Style trim pushes a dramatic, almost mecha-inspired look, with a large vertically-slatted grille, razor-sharp creases, pronounced wheel arches and orange contrast accents on the R-Style that emphasise sportiness. The rear treatment is similarly aggressive with a faux-diffuser and center-mounted twin exhaust outlets on the R-Style, styling cues that set it apart from conservative rivals. The overall effect is contemporary and polarising in equal measure: it stands out in traffic and on dealer lots. Practical details include retractable/electric door handles, 18” alloy wheels depending on spec, and a power tailgate on higher trims. The ride height and compact footprint keep city manoeuvrability while giving a confident road presence. 

PERFORMANCE

Under the bonnet is a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder delivering 130Kw and 270 Nm of torque, mated to a 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission (DCT). The spec combination gives the GS3 brisk acceleration that see's it accomplish a l 0–100 km/h time of around 8.0 seconds. The cars automatic gearbox selects sport mode when selecting drive and a further tap down then selects the normal drive gear, not sure if that is normal of a defect on the test car I had, but I found the accelerator extremely sensitive on the foot with the slight tap propelling the car forward like a jolt, this could be problematic in tight spots seeing that the car is so eager to go when in gear, it could be due to the dual clutch gearbox which normally show hesitation on take off so naturally it makes one tap the pedal harder.. On the move the Emzoom balances comfort and poise: reviewers report a taut but controlled suspension set-up especially on R-Style with grippier tyres, with neat steering feel. Several long-term and independent reviews mention slight DCT tip-in delay under certain conditions.  Fuel economy in the GS3’s is pretty high for a small hatch, which the combined claim sits around 6.2 L/100 km, I was averaging around 8L/100km, not sure if it was due to me driving in sports mode most of the time.  

COMFORT

Cabin space is surprisingly good for a car this size, the interior is extremely spacious and the seats very comfortable. The Emzoom’s wheelbase gives reasonable rear-seat legroom and a usable boot of about 341 L, comparable to class rivals. Front seats in higher trims are supportive and come with power adjustment for the driver; the panoramic roof  brightens the cabin but may slightly raise interior heat in SA’s summer  but still very cool option to have. The rear headroom is fine for the average adult, as normally with cars like this, many tend to bash their heads while getting in, you wont have that problem with the GS3.  Build quality and materials feel modern with soft-touch surfaces, leather or PVC leather options, and tidy switchgear. I particularly liked the clean center console with everything driver centric giving you a cockpit feel in the car. The car comes with a dual-screen layout with a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen plus a digital instrument display. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android mirroring, multiple USB ports (Type-A and C), wireless charging and a surround-view camera that is offered in the R-Style package. The system runs a modern-feeling UI and includes connected features where available. 

VERDICT

The GAC GS3 Emzoom R-Style is a strong-value, feature-packed compact crossover that offers modern styling, genuine ADAS safety credentials and a compelling ownership package, notably the lifetime engine warranty for first owners. For South African buyers who prioritise kit, tech and safety over brand conservatism or who want a car that looks different from the usual suspects the Emzoom is a very attractive proposition and arguably one of the best value buys in the B-SUV segment right now. If you do lots of inner-city crawl traffic, test-drive the R-Style to judge the DCT behaviour for yourself and compare seat comfort over a longer route.

SPECIFICATION

Engine	1.5L Turbo
Gear Box	7-Speed DCT
Torque	270Nm
Power	130kW
0-100km	8 seconds
Price	R489,900

 

Bucket Seat: GAC Emkoo

GAC is yet another Chinese brand that has entered our market, first with their hatchback the Emzoom and now with the crossover the Emkoo which I spent a few days with not too long ago. While all the Chinese brands have really great  and interesting designs,  GAC really know how to make a statement with theirs. It's really far our and extremely futuristic which I love. It's bold and cool, some might call it extra but it plays the part. While all Chinese cars come at a great retail price which are making peoples head sway away from the Europeans, many are still skeptical about the longevity of them. My gripe with the other brands is the gear boxes and the fuel consumption so I was looking forward to seeing how this new comer fairs against its Chinese competition. 

DESIGN

The Emkoo’s exterior design is arguably one of the most futuristic in its class, making it ideal for those who want a vehicle that stands out on the road. The GAC Emkoo is a head-turner, featuring a cyberpunk-inspired design that sets it apart from more conventional compact SUVs. Some key exterior highlights include an aggressive Front Fascia which has distinctive V-shaped front grille with integrated LED daytime running lights (DRLs) gives it a high-tech appearance. The grille has an intricate, angular design that blends into the front bumper. The slim, angular sharp, split-type LED headlights add to the vehicle’s futuristic aesthetic. A sloping roofline, sculpted body lines, and blacked-out pillars create a sporty, coupe-SUV look. The car boasts air ducts and sharp creases that improve aerodynamics while enhancing its aggressive stance. A connected LED taillight design and angular rear bumper complete the bold look.

PERFORMANCE

The GAC Emkoo comes powered with a 1.5L Turbocharged Engine which delivers 130kW and 370Nmof torque with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). The 1.5L turbo engine offers a good balance of power and efficiency, making it suitable for city and highway driving. The DCT gearbox shifts quickly but may feel a bit jerky at low speeds, which is typical for dual-clutch transmissions. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in urban environments. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing road imperfections well while maintaining decent handling characteristics. While the Emkoo is not a performance-oriented SUV, it delivers a refined and comfortable drive with enough power for daily use. 1.5L Turbo with a claimed consumption of 6.4L per 100km in mixed driving conditions.

COMFORT

The cabin of the GAC Emkoo is equally futuristic, blending a minimalist layout with high-tech features, a large 10.1-inch or 14.6-inch touchscreen (depending on the variant) dominates the dashboard, offering a clean and modern look.  The driver gets a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster with customizable displays. Premium Materials: Soft-touch materials, leather upholstery (on higher trims), and metallic accents enhance cabin quality. The minimalist design eliminates excessive buttons, focusing on touchscreen controls and a sleek gear selector. Comfortable Seating: The Emkoo offers well-cushioned seats with ample legroom for both front and rear passengers. The rear seats are slightly reclined for added comfort. Customizable LED ambient lighting adds a premium touch, enhancing the driving experience at night. While the interior design is sleek and modern, some may find the heavy reliance on touch controls less intuitive than traditional buttons. Being Chinese, the Emkoo is loaded with tech, some of the key features being, the 10.1-inch or 14.6-inch touchscreen runs GAC’s latest UI, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Intelligent voice commands allow you to adjust climate settings, navigation, and multimedia functions, Wireless Charging, Premium Audio System, Advanced Connectivity: Includes Wi-Fi hotspot functionality and over-the-air (OTA) software updates. The cabin is much more spacious than it looks in pictures with ample headroom for the front and rear, the luggage space is a decent size too, with more than enough room to pack bags for a family holiday. 

VERDICT

The GAC Emkoo is a bold, high-tech, and efficient compact SUV that stands out in a crowded segment. With its eye-catching design, premium interior, and modern safety features, it offers strong value for money. With an eye catching affordable price like other Chinese variants, its also packed with safety features such as Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Monitoring, Traffic Sign Recognition. It also has Multiple airbags (front, side, and curtain), Rigid chassis construction, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Parking sensors and a 360-degree camera system that is really cool and high-definition. The Emkoo’s safety package is competitive, positioning it well among rivals like the Honda HR-V, Toyota Corolla Cross, and Haval H6. While the name GAC isn't as prominent on the roads as Haval, Chery and BYD.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	1.5 Turbo Petrol
Gear Box	7-Speed DCT Auto
Torque	370Nm
Power	130kW
Avg Fuel Economy	6.4L per 100km
Price	R599,900*  base model

Bucket Seat: Toyota Corolla Cross

Toyota launched the "new Corolla Cross" this week ahead of their state of the nation motoring conference at Kyalami this week. The refreshed look of the Cross which has been a firm favourite amongst locals when it was first launched. With the introduction of the hybrid model and the combination of the then silicon chip shortage, meant that prospective buyers had to wait quite some time to get their cars. Regardless, this did not deter them and the amount of Corolla Cross's on the road now speaks volume for the car itself. 

This new, revised model see's major cosmetic changes to the front with a new style grille and front facia giving the car a more cleaner look. The headlights have been revised  which feature sequential turn signals, enhance visibility and a modern touch. Exclusive to the XR and GR-S models are uniquely shaped B--Beam LED lamps and crystal like LED daytime running lights. The rear while not looking that much different to the previous gen, does get a new light design featuring  an inner lens for greater precision and uniformity.  The Cross now has two new colours to the line up, Brass Gold and Oxide Bronze to give the line-up a nice shake up. 

The interior also receives some upgrades with premium materials being used now with real stitching on the instrument panel and console lid, along with high quality floor mats with heel pad. The Corolla Cross now comes with an electric parking brake, doing away with the foot brake on the old model. USB C ports all around the car and rear reclining seats for added comfort. 

The new Corolla Cross is more than just an SUV; it is a continuation of the iconic Corolla legacy. It combines Toyota’s renowned quality, durability, and reliability (QDR) with a forward-thinking approach to sustainability. As a leader in hybrid vehicle technology, the Corolla Cross serves as a bridge between Toyota’s rich history and its future aspirations. Toyota’s reputation for durability and a robust dealer network continues to ensure that the Corolla Cross remains an attractive offering in South Africa’s highly competitive SUV market.

Xi Models	Xs Models	XR and GR-S Models
·         LED Headlamp ·         Smart Entry ·         ABS + EBD + VSC + HAC ·         Cruise Control ·         5 airbags (D + D-knee + P + Side) ·         Electric Parking Brake ·         8” Display Audio ·         4.2” Combination Meter ·         Parking Sensors (Rear x2) ·         Rear Aircon Ducts + 2x USBs Seat B	·         Leather Seats, Shift Lever & Knob ·         3 spoke leather Steering Wheel ·         10” Display Audio + Wireless CarPlay ·         7” Combination Meter ·         Auto Dual Zone Air conditioner ·         Black Roof Rails ·         Parking Sensors (FR x2 + RR x4)	·         Toyota Safety Sense (Adaptive Cruise Control; Pre-crash with front cross traffic alert and Lane Keeping System with Lane Trace Assist) ·         7 Airbags including Curtain Side ·         Auto High Beam + Sequential Turn Signal ·         12.3” Full Digital Meter ·         Electrochromatic Rear View Mirror ·         360° Panoramic View Monitor ·         Power Back Door + Kick Sensor

Pricing on the new Corolla Cross is as follows, with it retaining the two engines, a 1.8 litre petrol and ultra-fuel efficient 1.8 litre Hybrid. While with the introduction the new Xi trim level, the HEV wont be available in this trim. 

• 
  Corolla Cross 1.8 Xi – R414 800
• Corolla Cross 1.8 Xs – R452 200
• Corolla Cross 1.8 Xs HEV – R494 400
• Corolla Cross 1.8 XR – R501 500
• Corolla Cross 1.8 XR HEV – R545 200
• Corolla Cross 1.8 GR-S – R518 200
• Corolla Cross 1.8 GR-S HEV – R561 700

Bucket Seat: Mahindra XUV 3XO AX7L

The Mahindra XUV300 AX7L (Luxury variant) is the flagship trim of the XUV300 lineup, offering a blend of style, performance, and advanced features that cater to urban and highway driving. First out, I think Mahindra have done a stunning job with the design of the car, its eye catching, its appealing and its just stands out from the crowd. Even though I had one of the more subdued colours in its line-up, it still had presence and it definitely echoes the right direction for the brands design philosophy. I spent a relatively short time with the car, not my usual 7-days which I felt didn't do the car justice but in any case, here are my thoughts on this new variant from the Indian motoring giant. 

DESIGN

The XUV300 AX7L stands out with its bold and muscular design, reflecting Mahindra's modern design philosophy. Front Features a prominent grille with chrome inserts, projector headlamps, and LED DRLs that lend a sophisticated and aggressive look. The car sports 17-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels and a strong character line running along the side, giving it a dynamic stance. The LED tail lamps are sharp and sleek, enhancing its premium appeal. The rear spoiler and silver skid plates add to its sporty demeanor. It comes in vibrant and dual-tone color options, which enhance its youthful and premium look.

PERFORMANCE

The XUV300 AX7L is available locally with only one engine option, that being the 1.2L Turbo-Petrol Engine from which it derives 82kW and 200Nm of torque, this is paired with a 6-speed automatic AISIN gearbox which I'll be very honest, I didn't quite enjoy. I felt that it quite often slipped gears especially in take off and the transitions were not smooth at all, with quite aggressive feedback at times. On the open road it didn't fair too badly, I found it peppy and a bit more refined, but it's meant to be a city car and I suppose for that aspect, the driving dynamics were not the greatest but given its size, nimbleness and its decent fuel economy, it may still fair well for many. 

COMFORT

The cabin of the AX7L variant is plush and equipped with high-end materials, offering a premium in-car experience. Soft-touch materials and a dual-tone theme dominate the dashboard, giving it an upmarket feel. Leatherette upholstery with excellent cushioning ensures comfort during long drives. The front seats are ventilated, a nice option for the hot, humid Durban summers.The car is spacious for its class, with ample legroom and headroom in both rowws. At 257 liters, the boot is adequate for daily needs but could feel limited for larger trips. The AX7L is loaded with segment-leading features which include a 7-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support, paired with a premium Harman/Kardon sound system. On the safety side, it includes 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, ESP, and a tyre pressure monitoring system. Driver Assistance Systems include: Advanced features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and autonomous emergency braking set it apart.Comfort Features which are note worthy are dual-zone climate control, panoramic sunroof, and an auto-dimming IRVM enhance convenience and luxury.

VERDICT

The Mahindra XUV300 AX7L is a great choice for those seeking a feature-packed compact SUV with robust performance and advanced safety tech. While its boot space could be a drawback, the overall value it offers makes it a compelling option in its segment. The AX7L variant is priced at the premium end of the XUV300 lineup, but its features and performance justify the cost. It competes with models like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Tata Nexon, holding its own with its feature-rich offering and strong engines.

 SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	1.2L Turbo Petrol
Gear Box	6-speed AISIN
Torque	200Nm
Power	82kW
0-60KM	4.6 seconds
Price	R404,999

Bucket Seat: Citroen C3 Aircross - 7 Seater

When it comes to French cars that are made in India, lets just say that I am not the biggest fan of them. So when the Citroën C3 Aircross 7-seater rolled into my driveway for testing, I didn't have much hope for it. While from the outside it looks fantastic, sitting inside the car gave me flash backs of the cheap and nasty materials, lack of insulation and general irks that I found with other cars that come from the sub continent. It’s positioned as a compact SUV designed to accommodate larger families, with a focus on maximizing space in a relatively small footprint and it probably works well in India as the people are generally smaller built than as South Africans. I on the other hand was not going to load it up with 7 people and drive around town but I had some interesting routes planned for the C3 which involved all types of terrain and all sorts of climates and I must say, this car surprised me a lot. In fact, it changed my view on French cars made in India, suffice to say humble pie was had. Here are my thoughts on the C3 Aircross:

DESIGN

The Citroën C3 Aircross features a distinctive design, with a bold front grille, large headlights, and unique Airbump panels that give it a rugged yet quirky appearance. It has an elevated stance and muscular wheel arches, contributing to its SUV-like appearance. The C3 Aircross has roof rails that add to its practicality, offering additional storage options. Having drive the launch model 5-seater, the 7-seater version extends the rear of the vehicle to accommodate the extra seats, and the vehicle looks more extended than the standard C3 Aircross. It maintains the brand's modern yet playful approach to design, with contrasting roof colors and options for custom color packs. The large 17-inch diamond cut 4-spoke alloy wheels give it distinct look and adds to the charm of the overall design. I must say, the C3 Aircross is a looker and at first glance doesn't give you a budget look at all but a rather very Euro-Premium feel.

PERFORMANCE

I was quite surprised that the same 1.2-liter PureTech petrol engine which is in the standard C3  remained frugal to my demands, paired with a 6-speed automatic gearbox the engine produces 81kW, which is sufficient for city driving and moderate highway speeds, but it may feel slightly underpowered when the vehicle is fully loaded but like I said, I never had to carry a load so the engine was more than capable for what I had drive. The gearbox is smooth for the most part, though it may hesitate at times, especially during quick overtakes or sharp accelerations. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing most bumps and road imperfections easily, which is one of Citroën's strong suits, the call it the "magic carpet feel" which I must admit, did its part when navigating soft beach sand and cushioned most of the harsh bumps on the gravel surfances. The driving experience is relaxed, and it's a good vehicle for families prioritizing comfort over sharp handling. However, because of its taller design, body roll is noticeable during cornering, and it doesn't feel as sporty or agile as some rivals in its class. The 1.2-liter engine, when mated to the automatic transmission, offers fuel consumption of around 6.0-7.0 liters per 100 km. These figures are typical for a vehicle in this class, but they may increase if the car is heavily loaded with passengers and luggage.

COMFORT

The interior is designed with a focus on comfort and modularity. The second row seats slide and recline, allowing flexible use of space for passengers or cargo. While the third row adds seating for up to seven, it's important to note that the rear-most seats are best suited for children or shorter trips, as legroom can be limited for adults. With all seven seats in use, the boot space is relatively small, around 165 liters. However, when the third row is folded down, the capacity increases significantly to around 520 liters, making it ideal for luggage on family trips. The Citroën C3 Aircross comes equipped with a range of tech features aimed at making the driving experience more convenient and enjoyable, most notable is the 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for easy smartphone integration. The graphics are clear, though the system can sometimes lag in response, also I did find it often disconnected from the wireless connection while driving quite  a few times. The car has a multi-function steering wheel with buttons for car info on the instrument cluster and to control media, but these were also buggy with the volume buttons sometimes ending controlling the skip function and then only making the volume lower not increasing no matter which button you pressed. The car came with standard manual aircon controls and no climate control but it did offer a sperate duct for the rear passengers which I thought was cool. The C3 Aircross has a ground clearance of 200mm which is good in its class and managed a host of terrains with is, included soft beach sand even though its not a 4-wheel drive car!

VERDICT

The Citroën C3 Aircross 7-seater automatic is ideal for families prioritizing comfort, flexibility, and a distinctive design. It offers a soft, easygoing ride, with good fuel efficiency and plenty of tech for the price. However, if you need to frequently transport seven adults or want a more dynamic driving experience, you might want to explore alternatives, as the third row is more suitable for occasional use, and the engine may feel underpowered with a full load. The C3 Aircross 7-seater typically offers good value for money, with its base models priced competitively compared to other SUVs in the segment. Prices can increase with additional features, trims, and technology packs, but even higher-spec models tend to be more affordable than some of its rivals. This makes it a solid option for families looking for a budget-friendly, comfortable SUV with seating flexibility. I spent a solid 9-hours driving it for an entire day and normally one would be quite fatigued from all the driving but the C3 managed to keep me comfortable through the experience, even while navigating some harsh terrain and for that, I must say kudos to it. 

 SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	1.2L Turbo Petro
Gear Box	6-Speed Automatic
Torque	205Nm
Power	81kW
Fuel Consumption	6.3L per 100km
Price	R354,900

Bucket Seat: Mahindra Scorpio N

The Mahindra Scorpio has come a long way in its journey in the South African market. While overlooked in its early years, it soon began to take traction as newer models made their way to the country. With word of mouth about its reliability, build quality and capabilities sales took off in a positive note. You won't find many in and around the city but when you move into the farm lands, that is when you will start to spot them. With its latest version sporting the new Mahindra logo, the Scorpio N is a significant upgrade from its predecessors, positioning itself as a robust yet budget-friendly SUV option. I got to spend a few days with this latest version of the Scorpio N and here are my thoughts on this SUV offering from the Indian motor giant. 

DESIGN

I tend to call a spade a spade and the previous generations Scorpio's did nothing for me in terms of design, in fact they were pretty awful with curves in all the wrong places, weird shaped lights, bulges in places that didn't need bulges, overall and eyesore to put it mildly but of recent, the designs coming out of India have a more European style to them and they look great!  Its design, both exterior and interior, has been modernized significantly. The Scorpio N sports a more defined and muscular look compared to the older models, with smoother lines and a stylish appearance that doesn’t compromise on its rugged essence​. The dark green colour that my test unit came in, made it look sophisticated and classy. As mentioned, the design has a European style to it but still has maintains that Indian Identity, kinda like Katrina Kaif wearing a wearing a Lengha top with Sissy Boy Jeans. Didn't expect a Bollywood fashion reference in this review, didn't you? Even the interior has undergone a vast improvement, with a more classic modern layout that is form and functional. 

PERFORMANCE

Under the hood, the Scorpio N features a 2.2-liter mHawk four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine that delivers 128 kW of power and 400 Nm of torque. This engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a part-time four-wheel-drive system that includes a low-range transfer case and a rear mechanical locking differential, making it highly capable off-road​  The SUV offers drive modes like Normal, Snow, Mud & Ruts, and Sand under Mahindra's ‘4XPLOR’ terrain system, enhancing its versatility on different terrains​. In terms of driving experience, the Scorpio N handles well both on and off the road. It provides a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps efficiently thanks to its double wishbone front suspension and Watt’s link rear suspension setup. The powertrain is smooth and adequate for typical driving conditions, although it might not excel in high-speed scenarios​​. Fuel efficiency is reasonable, with real-world consumption likely to be around 8 liters per 100 kilometers​​. I did take the Scoprio N with me on my annual trek to Sun City and it made easy work of traveling the dreaded R556 at night. Dodging potholes and conquering those uneven speed bumps with ease, almost as if to say "please man, I'm made for Indian roads, this is a piece of cake". So, off-road we went with it, to see how it handles the harsh African terrain and again, with the easy to use driving modes selected by the jog shuttle selector, it was simple to change the cars terrain response settings and switching from 2 wheel to 4 wheel driving. 

COMFORT

The interior of the Scorpio N is a marked improvement over previous models, like I said earlier, I love the new layout design, its very functional and it features better quality materials than previous generations which look great and are robust. It even features a modern infotainment system that supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay with wireless connectivity, there are USB ports for charging devices and loads of storage compartments. Higher trims, like the one I was in come with additional luxuries like a Sony sound system and wireless charging​​. That Sony sound system surprised me, at first I wasn't sold but after tinkering with the sound settings, you could tell an Indian had a hand in this sound system because the bass, is definitely in your face. There's a lot of positives to the new designed interior however, some users might find the indicator sound particularly annoying, and the stop-start system could use a software update to function more effectively​​ as it does feel rather abrupt and I found myself switching if off every time I got in. The second row seating is very comfortable and spacious while the third row is pretty much expected of a third row seating in an 7-seater SUV. The luggage space is decent, we logged 2 golf bags and two big suit cases which required us to drop 40% of the second row seating. The tailgate makes it easier with the swing door and not the traditional hatch style tilt up opening. It has two cameras, one in the front and one at the back, but with different angle options which gives the driver a better perspective. 

VERDICT

Overall, the Mahindra Scorpio N stands out as a well-rounded SUV that combines rugged capability with modern amenities at a competitive price, making it a strong contender in its segment​. One of the key selling points of the Scorpio N is its pricing, which offers a compelling alternative to more expensive ladder-frame SUVs like the Toyota Fortuner, while still providing seven-seat capacity and substantial off-road capabilities​. Speaking of the Fortuner, a lot of people have asked me whether it is better than the Japanese firm favourite and whether it would give it some competition in the market. I honestly still feel the Fortuner nudges ahead of the Mahindra on quite a few fronts, doesn't justify the steep pricing but in terms of the Scorpio N being a direct competitor, I'm not entirely sold on that one yet.You're still going to get great reliability from Mahindra, these cars are solid and hardly break, even in the toughest conditions so on that front I think there isn't a need to worry and with them having an assembly plant here in Durban, parts shouldn't be that difficult to source as well. It certainly a massive improvement from the brand and it's good to see this company heading in the right direction.  

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	2.0L 4 Cylinder, turbo-diesel
Gear Box	6-speed automatic
Torque	400Nm
Power	128kW
Fuel Consumption	8L per 100km
Price	R644,499