Bucket Tech: HUAWEI WATCH D2

HUAWEI WATCH D2 brings 24-hour blood pressure monitoring to users’ wrists. It uses an inflatable airbag to measure blood pressure at set intervals, with reminders during the day and automatic readings at night. The watch supports various measurement scenarios, including standing, sitting, or reclining during the day, and performs automatic measurements during sleep.

ABPM is recognised as the gold standard for diagnosing and managing hypertension. It’s recommended by major health guidelines, including the ISH 2020 Global Hypertension Practice Guidelines, the 2017 ACC/AHA Blood Pressure Guidelines, and the 2018 ESC/ESH Guidelines for the management of Arterial Hypertension.

Lightweight Comfort with Premium Simplicity

The HUAWEI WATCH D2 is designed for comfort and convenience. It is compact and lightweight, making it ideal for continuous wear to monitor blood pressure throughout the day. Boasting a 1.82-inch large screen with a new colourful user interface and a 2.5D floating design. It’s also much smaller than traditional upper-arm monitors, with an ultra-narrow 26.5mm airbag.

Available in Black and Gold, the watch features a sweat-resistant, skin-friendly fluoroelastomer strap with TPU soft rubber, ensuring all-day comfort.

Comprehensive health management

The HUAWEI WATCH D2 offers comprehensive health tracking, including beat-by-beat ECG analysis, SpO2 monitoring, pulse wave arrhythmia analysis, heart rate, stress levels, and skin temperature monitoring. With a single tap, users can measure nine body indicators and generate a Health Glance report that highlights potential health risks. This includes measurements for heart rate, blood pressure, blood oxygen, stress, body temperature, ECG, vascular elasticity, pulse wave arrhythmia, and sleep breathing awareness. Additionally, the HUAWEI WATCH D2 is the first Huawei smartwatch to feature blood pressure analysis in the Health Glance function.

It also brings features such as over 80 exercise modes, with daily task tracking around exercise, diet, sleep, weight, and stress, to help users develop habits that form a healthy lifestyle to support blood pressure management.

HUAWEI WATCH D2 is equipped with the brand-new TruSense system, released earlier this year, the system has enabled Huawei to take a major leap forward in its sports health monitoring module and algorithms. The HUAWEI TruSense System is setting a new digital health & fitness paradigm that's defined by six key characteristics: accuracy, comprehensiveness, speed, flexibility, openness, and iteration (continual monitoring).

To ensure the long-term accuracy of its continuous vital sign monitoring, as well as deliver faster results, Huawei invested heavily in optical, electrical, and material science research, with the aim of overcoming the challenges that different skin tones, wrist sizes, and weather conditions pose to various sensors. Thanks to Huawei's innovations, the accuracy of basic indicators such as heart rate, SpO2, and blood pressure has been certified by authoritative industry bodies.

The HUAWEI WATCH D2 is now available for purchase through Huawei’s online store, HUAWEI Experience Stores, and select retailers, starting at R8,499.00. It is also offered at select Vodacom Stores from R245 per month over 36 months. For added peace of mind, Huawei offers the HUAWEI Care+ Service, available as an add-on with your new smartwatch.

Monday Choon: Genix & JVMIE - Bloom (NOMADsignal Remix)

 

Building on years of innovation and versatility across the spectrum of electronic music, Genix comes full circle on his second studio album ‘YOU.ME.NOW’. An established DJ and producer who’s maintained his status as an innovator for the duration of his career, and following an unbeatable run of releases that’s cemented him as one of the leading artists on Anjunabeats, Genix was inspired to look towards his roots on his sophomore album.The third batch of remixes to emerge from Genix’s recent album YOU.ME.NOW, this package sees a wide array of genres; from Leena Punks’ staple progressive trance style, to US producer Bebi’s hard-hitting, club-ready house rework. The package also includes remixes from Armin van Buuren supported US-based artist, NOMADsignal, and Italian duo Just A Few.

Bucket Seat: Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet

With the new CLE Cabriolet, Mercedes-Benz is continuing its long tradition of four-seater open-top dream cars. Expressive design, intelligent technology and upmarket equipment guarantee driving pleasure at an exclusive level. This new model is based on the sporty CLE Coupé. However, the classic fabric acoustic soft top and additional high-quality details give it a character of its own. The CLE Cabriolet combines dynamic driving characteristics with a high level of everyday comfort for year-round open-air enjoyment.

Open-air fun any time of year

The AIRCAP® electric wind deflector system and the AIRSCARF® headroom heating system are standard equipment. Both systems have been further developed. They make open-top driving in cool outside temperatures more pleasant. AIRCAP® consists of two elements: the wind deflector on the windscreen directs airflow over the occupants’ heads. It extends at the touch of a button. The automatic wind deflector behind the rear head restraints reduces turbulence more efficiently. AIRSCARF® produces even warmer airflow around the necks and throats of front-seat occupants – even in unfavourable wind conditions.

The standard-fit fabric acoustic soft top also contributes to the year-round usability of the CLE Cabriolet. It is available in the colours black, red or grey. The multi-layer structure with extensive insulation provides the basis for the best thermal comfort in all seasons. It also reduces wind and driving noise. The soft top opens and closes within 20 seconds up to a road speed of 60 km/h. For the first time, it is powered exclusively by electricity, making it even quieter. The standard-fit powered roller divider automatically separates the folded soft top from the remaining luggage compartment.

Sporty luxury in a class of its own

The freestanding 12.3-inch fully digital instrument display and the 11.9-inch driver-oriented central display in portrait format are eye-catchers in the interior. The latter can be electrically tilted from 15 to 40 degrees to prevent distracting glare when the soft top is down. Another highlight is the optional dynamic ambient lighting. Bands of light sweep from the cockpit over the doors and rear side panels to behind the rear seats. This stylish wraparound feel is enhanced by two further details: the top of the dashboard, the beltlines and the soft-top stowage lid are upholstered in black man-made nappa leather effect. Added to this is the chrome trim that runs around the entire passenger compartment.

To prevent the optional leather seats from heating up too much in the summer, they have a special coating which reflects the sun’s near-infrared rays. As a result, the leather remains up to 12 degrees cooler in direct sunlight than untreated standard leather. Even with the top closed, the interior heats up less thanks to the cool seat covers. The choice of colours offered for the sun-reflecting leather and nappa leather are: black, macchiato beige/black, tonka brown/black, power red/black and white/black. The standard AVANTGARDE Line offers ARTICO/MICROCUT man-made leather in black.

The front seats developed exclusively for the CLE have an integral sports seat design. In conjunction with the optional Burmester® 3D surround sound system, they each have two loudspeakers level with the head restraints. This creates a particularly personalised and immersive music experience with Dolby Atmos and Spatial Audio close to the ear. This premium sound system has a total of 17 loudspeakers.

Generous space inside

As the largest convertible in the mid-size segment, the sporty two-door model offers a high level of long-distance comfort for four people. The dimensions are: 4,850 millimetres long, 1,861 millimetres wide, 1,424 millimetres high and a wheelbase of 2,865 millimetres. Rear passengers in particular benefit from the extra 25 millimetres on the wheelbase. Among other things, they have 72 millimetres more knee room and 19 millimetres more shoulder and elbow room. This makes the vehicle significantly more spacious than the C-Class Cabriolet.

With a volume of 385 litres (295 litres with the top down), the boot is extremely practical for everyday use. If required, this is extendable using the folding rear seat backrests. Customers can conveniently fold them down from the boot in a 60:40 split. Access to the luggage compartment is contactless and fully automatic with HANDS-FREE ACCESS. KEYLESS-GO is also part of standard equipment. The vehicle doors lock and unlock by touching the door handle.

Exceptionally interactive and customised

The entertainment offering is highly interactive and personalised. The third generation of the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system enables third-party apps. The MBUX Entertainment package is optionally available via the Mercedes me Store. It includes internet radio, music streaming and a data package from a selected third-party provider.

Thanks to artificial intelligence, MBUX also offers a new level of personalisation with automated convenience functions. At market launch, customers will be able to use templates for standard routines. Examples include “Cold days” (seat heating switches on at a certain outside temperature) or “Date night” (romantic music plays via Bluetooth audio; the ambient lighting turns pink). Users access the templates via a carousel in the central display. They can also create their own routines, by linking several functions and conditions. They do this on the central display and the resulting routines appear under the “My routines” menu heading.

Dynamic and comfortable driving experience with a powerful, top-of-the-range six-cylinder engine

The chassis of the new CLE Cabriolet enables driving pleasure on winding roads. At the same time, it offers exceptional ride comfort on long journeys. The comfort suspension, which has been lowered by 15 millimetres, is fitted as standard. It combines a supremely comfortable ride with responsive, sporty handling. A sports suspension with an amplitude-selective damping system is available as an option.

The optional DYNAMIC BODY CONTROL suspension facilitates a highly adjustable driving experience ranging from extremely sporty to comfortable through continuous, adaptive damping front and rear. The active suspension individually controls the damping characteristics for each wheel in conjunction with the engine, transmission and steering characteristics. This takes into account the driving situation, speed and road conditions. The DYNAMIC SELECT switch gives the driver a choice between a comfortable or firmer, sportier setup.

All engines are mild hybrids. Each has an integrated starter-generator and 48-volt on-board electrical system.

“Sublime, that’s the word that I would use to describe the all-new CLE model offerings that we have made available to our customers. These are the cars that people dream about, and they do not disappoint. We have come in very competitively with our pricing and customers have unmatched choice in terms of crafting their desired CLE model to their specification.” Alex Boavida. Vice President Sales and Marketing MBSA.

Bucket Tech: HUAWEI Watch GT5 Feature Packed

HUAWEI’s recent wearable releases have taken the tech world by storm and caught the industry off guard. Against all odds, the company is making its mark by continuing to push past the ceiling of innovation. Even its recent wearable release, the new HUAWEI WATCH GT 5 Series, has lived up to the hype. Having already accumulated eight awards from authoritative voices like Android Authority, Tech Advisor, Wareable, Trusted Reviews, and Yanko Design, the smartwatch has garnered glowing reviews from critics everywhere.

But what are these showstopping features that have the keyboards of reviewers aflutter?

Strikingly Sharp Looks

Leading the charge in both design and technology, Huawei has recently taken a new approach to fusing fashion and functionality in this recent wearable release. It is this new focus that sees the HUAWEI WATCH GT 5 Series masquerades as a dress watch really well.

This stye-focused positioning was commended by Tech Advisor, which also granted the watch an Editor’s Choice Award. As journalist Luke Baker describes it, “The HUAWEI WATCH GT 5 Pro is one of the most stylish and premium-feeling wearables I’ve ever had the pleasure of using …  Aesthetically, it might be my favourite smartwatch to date."

With a choice of different variations between a sharp-edged bezel and a delicate jewellery-inspired ring design, the range makes the watch adaptable enough to match different outfits, occasions, and personalities. For further customisation, users can even switch up the watch’s look with a variety of watch straps and watch faces.

The best of all is the watch’s premium quality materials, far superior to what you would expect at its price point, especially when it comes to its Pro edition’s premium grade design. Fusing nanocrystal ceramic and aerospace-grade titanium alloy, the the HUAWEI WATCH GT 5 Pro adds extra-durable strength and a luxe finish to its exterior. As Trusted Reviews highlights in its review piece, "Huawei continues to hit the high notes when it comes to design, offering a sleek and premium design in the GT 5 Pro that belies the price tag.”

Groundbreaking Health and Fitness Tracking

The watch’s overall improvements brought about by the new hardware and software upgrades courtesy of the HUAWEI TruSense System have also raised the bar for accuracy, speed and comprehensiveness of its health and fitness features. As Android Authority highlights at the end of its review, “If you need accurate health tracking, then the HUAWEI GT 5 Pro might just be the watch you’re looking for.”

Yanko Design praises HUAWEI TruSense’s significant improvements to the accuracy of core health metric readings such as heart rate, blood oxygen (SpO2), and respiratory rate, awarding the watch an Editors’ Choice and rating its performance a whopping 4.5/5. As journalist Vincent Nguyen puts it, “By integrating physical and emotional health tracking, Huawei’s TruSense offers an unmatched combination of functionality and precision, helping users stay in tune with their bodies and minds daily.”

Detecting a wide range of health and fitness indicators, the user’s physiological condition and technical performance during sporting activities are now better assessed. Those opting for the HUAWEI WATCH GT 5 Pro can also enjoy additional in-depth insights into sports like golfing, diving, and trail running.

Phenomenal 2-Week Battery

With the GT Series, Huawei has consistently been a leader in battery performance. The 5th edition doesn’t disappoint in this area, and the watch lasts between 7 to 14 days, allowing users to track their health stats round the clock, whether they’re sweating it out in the gym or getting their beauty sleep overnight.

Tried and tested by Wareable, journalist Conor Alison highlights Huawei’s continued triumph in this aspect: “In isolation, though, the battery performance here is still very good; we enjoyed just shy of a week’s worth of battery life from the GT 5 even with the always-on display enabled and all of the health features set to continuous monitoring.”

Tech Tablets, applauds the brand’s leadership in battery life capabilities after journalist Chris G’s own experience with the HUAWEI WATCH GT 5 Pro, labelling it as “absolutely fantastic” and confirming that it “kills the competition with Wear OS and Apple Watches.”

A Watch for Everyone

Not only do reviewers laud the new watch’s stellar performance and unique designs, but many have also recognised that Huawei is outperforming industry standards and consistently pushing the boundaries of innovation. The best of all? These new features and innovations are available to all – not just Huawei mobile users but also iOS and Android smartphone users as well.

Monday Choon: Andrew Bayer & Oliver Smith - Be Kind Rewind

 

I featured the other tracks from the EP so its only fitting that I feature the title track of it as well. "Be Kind Rewind" was the first collaborative work from Andrew Bayer and Oliver Smith and to say its been a success is an understatement. From the first single release "Rude Boyz" which is still a banger in my playlist, the following tracks were great too and to tie them altogether, the final track which is the same name is a perfect end to this memorable EP from the duo. Lets hope that the success of this one spurs them onto collaborate more. 

Bucket Seat: Toyota Starlet Cross XR

Toyota and Suzuki share a strange product sharing agreement, while the two companies remain separate entities, the shared model platforms are becoming a bit weird to the keen observer. Suzuki produce a number of models that have been re-badged and sold locally as a Toyota product, this makes sense if the Suzuki variant wasn't sold here but as in all cases the Suzuki model is launched first, followed by the Toyota "version", the more surprising fact is that even with Suzuki launching their model first, the Toyota model still outsells the original Suzuki model. That is the power of brand loyalty I guess, it all started when the Suzuki Baleno was brought, sales of this 1.5L medium sized hatchback wasn't great, a year or so later, it lands on our shores badges as the "Toyota Starlet" and it sells in its thousands. Even though the car is basically still a Suzuki, but because of the name on the car, it drew in the sales. Fast forward to 2023 and Suzuki launches their compact SUV the Fronx. It looked like Toyota backed off with this model after sales of their Urban Cruiser wiped the floor of its half-sibling the Grand Vitara but low and behold, the Toyota Starlet Cross landed on our shores this year and yes, you guessed it, sales are skyrocketing for it. I spent some time with this model and here are my thoughts on the car. 

DESIGN

The Toyota Starlet Cross has a bold yet compact design, with sharp lines and an aggressive front fascia that set it apart from the more understated traditional Starlet. The front end is highlighted by a prominent grille with Toyota’s signature trapezoidal shape, flanked by sleek LED headlamps and angular DRLs, giving it a stylish, almost upscale look for its category.  In profile, it features roof rails, black body cladding along the wheel arches, and 16-inch alloy wheels (depending on trim), giving it a rugged, go-anywhere appearance. The rear design maintains a compact aesthetic with sculpted taillights that wrap around the body, adding to the car's sporty profile. It is a looker of note with it attracting keen interests from passes by during my time with it, this was also helped by the outstanding colour called "Fine Orange" with Bi-tone Black. There's no faulting it from any angle and with the additional aluminium scuff plates on the front and the back, gives it that off-roading menace look that would be nice to see on the rally track, subtle hint for Toyota there. 

PERFORMANCE

Under the hood, the Starlet Cross typically offers a choice of small-displacement, fuel-efficient engines, often a 1.5-liter inline-4 or a 1.0-liter turbocharged three-cylinder, depending on the region. 1.5-Liter Inline-4 Engine: This naturally aspirated engine generates around 77kW and138 Nm of torque. This particular model featured the 5-speed manual transmission and worked well with this engine that is tuned for efficiency and city drivability, offering adequate acceleration and smooth power delivery. Fuel economy is one of the Starlet Cross's strong points with it being able to deliver up to 5.6L per 100km under optimal conditions The Starlet Cross rides comfortably on city streets, absorbing bumps and rough patches with ease. The suspension is tuned for a balance of comfort and control, making it agile enough for urban driving while still stable at highway speeds. The electric power steering is light, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, but it can feel a bit numb at higher speeds. While it’s not a sports car, the Starlet Cross handles corners confidently thanks to its low curb weight and well-tuned suspension. Body roll is minimal, and it’s a stable choice for light off-roading, though it’s best suited for city roads and light countryside trails.

COMFORT

Inside, the Starlet Cross offers a refined, practical cabin with an intuitive layout and ample space for passengers and cargo. The materials are durable, with a blend of soft-touch plastics, textured surfaces, and subtle chrome accents on higher trims. Toyota has focused on ergonomics, making sure frequently used controls are within easy reach.  The seats are well-cushioned and supportive, offering good lateral support for longer drives. This XR model featured bi-colour cloth seats but the material felt really premium. The driver’s seat is adjustable, and in some variants, the steering wheel is also telescopically adjustable, ensuring a comfortable driving position. Despite its subcompact classification, the Starlet Cross has decent interior space. There’s ample headroom, legroom, and shoulder room for front and rear passengers, making it suitable for family use. With the rear seats up, it offers around 320 liters of cargo space, expandable to 710 liters with the seats folded flat. The Starlet Cross is equipped with Toyota's latest infotainment system, which varies depending on the market but typically includes a 7- or 9-inch touchscreen display. This system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it easy to connect smartphones for navigation, calls, and music streaming. Standard safety features on the Startlet Cross include: Dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, and stability control come standard across all trims.

VERDICT

The Toyota Starlet Cross is a smart choice for drivers seeking a reliable, economical, and practical subcompact SUV with just enough style and flair to stand out. While at the heart of the car it remains a Suzuki, you can tell Toyota had some influence in the car, with a dependability with a modern, user-friendly design, making it well-suited for urban families, young professionals, or anyone looking for an efficient crossover that performs well in a variety of driving conditions. The Toyota Starlet Cross offers good value, especially for buyers looking for a reliable, fuel-efficient SUV that can handle both city and light off-road driving. The starting price is competitive within its class, and Toyota’s reputation for long-term durability is a strong selling point over it's product sharing partner Suzuki. Additionally, the availability of various trims and options means there’s likely a Starlet Cross model to fit most budgets and needs and its looks are just an added bonus. 

 SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	1.5L, 4-cylinder NA
Gear Box	5-Speed Manual
Torque	138Nm
Power	77kW
Fuel Consumption	5.6L per 100km
Price	R299,900

Bucket Tech: HONOR at Africa Tech Festival 2024

HONOR, a global technology leader, proudly announces its strategic media partners and distinguished lineup of speakers for the Africa Tech Festival 2024, where the company will debut as a Gold Sponsor.HONOR is partnering with renowned media outlets CNBC Africa and Cape Talk to ensure insightful analysis of its presence at the festival. These partnerships underscore HONOR’s commitment to engaging with a broad audience and deepening conversations around technological innovation and growth in Africa.

Premier Fireside Chat Featuring Industry Titans

Highlighting HONOR’s participation will be an exclusive fireside chat titled “The Future of the Smartphone Industry”, scheduled for Tuesday, 12 November from 15h00 to 15h45 at the AfricaCom: Telcos of Tomorrow stage. This conversation promises to provide compelling insights into the evolving smartphone landscape, driven by AI and foldable technology.

Speakers for this session include:

               •             Fred Zhou, CEO, HONOR South Africa

               •             Jorge Mendes, CEO, Cell C

               •             Vinod Nenwani, Head of Android Partnerships, North and South Africa, Google

This panel of leaders will explore the opportunities ahead for Africa’s smartphone market, discussing multi-stakeholder collaboration to drive digital inclusion, enhance connectivity, and boost economic growth.

Spotlight on Technological Innovation

During the Africa Tech Festival, HONOR will showcase its latest advancements, including its flagship HONOR Magic Series foldable smartphones and a range of AI-enhanced products designed to democratize technology access. Attendees will have hands-on opportunities to experience these pioneering products and witness how HONOR’s innovations are set to transform Africa’s digital landscape.

The Africa Tech Festival 2024, set to take place from 12-14 November at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), is the premier event for tech professionals, bringing together over 15,000 attendees, 400 speakers, and 300 exhibitors. HONOR’s participation as a Gold Sponsor signals its intention to lead and contribute to transformative discussions on digital strategy and the future of tech in Africa. 

Monday Choon: Above & Beyond - React

 

Following their successful ABGT600 event in Mexico, the London based trio Above & Beyond have released the lead single from their forthcoming 'Tranquility Base Vol.2" EP titled React. The track which has been played for the better part of this year by the group and has delighted festival goers with its multiple tempo changes which pairs well with the heavy bassline. It's already becoming a club and festival hit which will be played throughout the festive season heading into the new year. From the success Vol.1 of the EP brought the group, Vol. 2 is set to do just the same with 5 high energy instrumental tracks, release date of the EP is scheduled for 6th December 2024. 

Bucket Seat: Honda FIT Hybrid e-CVT

Honda, although a house-hold name around the world and locally often gets overshadowed by it's Japanese counterpart, I mean rightfully so if you take a look at the NAMSA sales stats for the past 20 years. That's not to say Honda isn't good, it's just that they're different, their cars are made for a different target market, while the one aims for large volume of sales, Honda aims more for quality of product which is why their products tend to have a higher price tag than most. Of recent, the brand has undergone some changes in their cars line-up's with an interesting take on the design language, this transcends onto the interior as well with the cabins getting a more premium feel with better quality materials and ergonomic design making it look modern but with a slight retro touch. The FIT, which I drove when launched 2 years ago really impressed me, hence with the Hybrid model was introduced to the market this year, I was itching to get my hands on it to see how it fared against its Japanese cousins who, in my personal opinion have mastered the technology, so here's my take on Honda's car. 

DESIGN

The 2024 Honda Fit Hybrid’s design maintains the Fit’s signature boxy, compact look, maximizing interior space while staying highly maneuverable. The latest model has adopted a more streamlined, modern appearance with updated LED headlights, a refined front grille, and stylish yet subtle lines along the body. The shape is highly functional, designed to reduce drag and enhance fuel efficiency, while details like aerodynamic mirrors and underbody covers also contribute to the model’s low wind resistance. Colors are typically vibrant yet restrained, with options like Opal White, Lunar Silver, Platinum White, Rose Gold and the colour which I had on test, Crystal Red. 

PERFORMANCE

The Honda Fit Hybrid features Honda's e:HEV hybrid system, which combines a 1.5-liter DOHC i-VTEC engine with two electric motors. The result is a combined power output of approximately 90Kw and 253 Nm of torque, providing ample power for urban driving and light highway cruising.The Fit Hybrid operates primarily as an electric vehicle at lower speeds, switching to hybrid mode when more power is needed. At high speeds, the petrol engine takes over for maximum efficiency. This smart system allows the Fit Hybrid to achieve impressive fuel economy.  Unlike traditional transmissions, the Fit Hybrid uses an electronic CVT that minimizes fuel consumption and smoothens the driving experience by matching power output to demand without noticeable shifts.In real-world conditions, drivers can expect to average under 5L per 100km depending on driving habits and road conditions, but Honda claiming 3.7L per 100km which I think is achievable on urban runs. I did take this on a long distance journey thinking I'd get close to 800km on the 40L tank but I think a combination of aggressive driving and not ideal road conditions made me miss this mark by about 120km. The range did seem to drastically drop since showing 100km of range left, so not sure if it's just Honda's way of being extra cautious or it was really dropping that way, either way I had to do some driving on range 0km before making it to a fuel station to fill up. 

COMFORT

Honda has maximized the interior space with the Fit Hybrid’s Magic Seat system, allowing for flexible configurations. The seats can be arranged in Utility Mode, Tall Mode, Long Mode, and Refresh Mode, enabling storage for larger items or creating extra passenger space as needed. As mentioned earlier, the quality of materials has definitely gotten an upgrade, soft-touch materials and well-padded seats offer comfort for long drives. The seats themselves are ergonomic, providing good support, and the available leather trim enhances the premium feel. The Fit’s tall roofline provides excellent headroom for both front and rear passengers, while legroom is ample given the car’s compact size. Cargo space is substantial, with 470 liters available with the seats up, and up to 1,145 liters when the rear seats are folded.Honda equips the Fit Hybrid with modern tech, even at entry-level trims. Features like an infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen standard, offering smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. All models feature Bluetooth, USB ports, and an auxiliary input. Honda's app integration and touchscreen interface are user-friendly, it also has wireless charging. On the highway, the Fit Hybrid is stable and composed, though the engine can be noisy when pushed hard. However, it handles road imperfections well, with suspension tuned for a balanced ride. The overall experience is smooth, efficient, and comfortable for both short commutes and longer trip 

VERDICT

The Honda Fit Hybrid is a practical, versatile, and highly efficient hatchback ideal for drivers seeking a fuel-efficient, low-emission vehicle without compromising on space and flexibility. It’s particularly well-suited for city dwellers who appreciate compact cars with advanced safety features and versatile interiors. While it may lack the acceleration of some rivals, its balanced ride, ease of use, and standout fuel economy make it a solid choice for daily commuting and light family use. The price point of this car is one that stands out, for what you're paying, it's Japanese competitor offers bigger and cheaper alternatives in their hybrid range, while in the Honda you are getting more features in-terms of tech and safety, I'm not sure if it would be enough to persuade the buyer who is more worried about his pocket than nice to haves. 

 SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	1.5L i-MMD Hybrid
Gear Box	eCVT Automatic
Torque	253Nm
Power	90kW
Fuel Consumption	3.7L per 100km
Price	R544,900

Bucket Tech: Samsung Galaxy A06

Samsung is thrilled to announce the launch of the Galaxy A06, the latest addition to the A Series range, designed for those who seek reliability and performance without breaking the bank. With a blend of cutting-edge features and budget-friendly pricing, the Galaxy A06 is set to enhance the mobile experience for users across South Africa.

Join the next generation of awesome with the Galaxy A06. With its awesome display from the expansive 6.7” screen, this new device provides an immersive experience with optimal wide viewing and rich, vibrant sound. Experience a smartphone that combines innovation, reliability, and affordability, making it the perfect choice for anyone in search of a dependable mobile companion.

Available with 4GB of RAM and 64GB of internal storage—the Galaxy A06 provides ample space for all your apps, photos, and videos. Need more? Expand your storage effortlessly with a microSD card of up to 1TB. Imagine never having to worry about deleting precious memories to make space for new ones. With the Galaxy A06, your digital life is limitless.

Stay connected longer with the powerful 5,000 mAh battery that supports 25W Fast Charging. Whether you're binge-watching your favourite series, video-calling friends, or navigating your way through a busy day, the Galaxy A06 ensures you have the power you need. So when you’re on a night out with your friends or at a festival, capturing every moment on your camera with the Galaxy A06 means you won’t have to scramble for a charger before the night ends.

Equipped with a dual camera setup, the Galaxy A06 features a stunning 50MP high-resolution main camera, complemented by a 2MP depth camera. Your selfies are taken care of by the 8MP front camera. Users can effortlessly capture and share their favourite moments, whether it’s a breathtaking sunset or a group selfie with friends. The enhanced photo quality and detail bring life to every shot, making each memory even more special.

Your personal information deserves the best protection. The Galaxy A06 comes with Samsung Knox Vault, safeguarding your data with advanced security features. Users can feel confident knowing that their sensitive information is well-guarded against threats, allowing them to enjoy their device without worry.

The Samsung Galaxy A06 is available now, both online and in stores, in stylish light blue and classic black colours. With a recommended retail price of just R2499, it offers incredible value without compromising on quality.