Bucket Seat: Audi Q3 Sportback S Line Black 1.4 TFSI

The Audi Q3 has always been one of those premium compact SUVs that quietly gets the job done, but with the arrival of the all-new Q3 Sportback, Audi has given the model a much-needed injection of attitude. I recently spent some time with the Q3 Sportback S line Black, finished in, you guessed, it black, and there is something about this particular specification that really suits the new design. Starting at R964 000 for the 1.4 TFSI S line Black, the Sportback sits firmly in premium territory, but it also brings a sharper design, a more modern interior and plenty of technology to the table.

DESIGN

I quite like the look of the new Q3, but it is the Sportback that really brings Audi's latest design language to life. Where the previous-generation Q3 Sportback could sometimes look like a standard Q3 with a roofline added for good measure, this new generation feels much more cohesive. The clean lines, smoother curves and more sculpted body give it a mature appearance, while still retaining enough attitude to make it stand out in a crowded premium SUV segment. Up front, Audi has taken a different approach with the lighting signature, and the split headlight design gives the Q3 a far more sophisticated appearance than its predecessor. It is a cleaner, more modern interpretation of the Audi face, and when combined with the black exterior treatment of the S line Black package, the car takes on a particularly sinister appearance. The darker exterior detailing works nicely with the aggressive front end, while the overall proportions make the Sportback look lower and wider than it actually is. Move around to the side and this is where the Sportback earns its name. The sloping roofline flows neatly into the rear of the vehicle without making the car look awkward or overly compromised. In fact, I think this is one of the best angles of the new Q3. It has that sleek, almost coupe-like profile that buyers in this segment are looking for, while still retaining the practicality expected from an SUV. At the rear, the illuminated Audi logo is another small but very cool touch, and combined with the modern rear light signature, it gives the Q3 a distinctive night-time presence. Audi has managed to make the new Q3 look more grown-up without making it boring, and that is probably my favourite aspect of the exterior.

PERFORMANCE

Under the bonnet of the Q3 Sportback S line Black is Audi's familiar 1.4-litre four-cylinder TFSI turbocharged petrol engine producing 110 kW and 250 Nm. It is paired with Audi's seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission and sends its power to the front wheels. Audi claims a 0-100 km/h time of 9.1 seconds, which tells you pretty much everything you need to know about the character of this engine. The 1.4 TFSI is by no means a bad engine. Around town it is smooth, refined and perfectly capable of dealing with everyday driving, and the S tronic gearbox does a great job of making the most of what the engine has to offer. The problem is that there are moments when the Q3 feels like it could do with a little more punch. Put your foot down for an overtaking manoeuvre or ask for a quick burst of acceleration and there can be a noticeable moment where you are waiting for the gearbox and engine to wake up. Once it does, the S tronic transmission shifts quickly and keeps things moving, but I couldn't help thinking that the Q3's sporty exterior deserves an engine with a little more muscle. This is where the 2.0-litre TDI becomes an interesting alternative. It produces the same 110 kW, but torque jumps significantly to 360 Nm, giving it considerably more pulling power than the petrol model. For buyers who spend plenty of time on the highway, carry passengers regularly or simply prefer that effortless shove that comes with a healthy dose of diesel torque, the TDI could make more sense. It does, however, push the price of the S line Black Sportback beyond the R1-million mark, at R1 002 300, so there is a significant financial consideration too.

COMFORT

Inside is where the new Q3 really shows just how far Audi has moved the game on. The new interior design language is much more modern than before, and the curved panoramic display immediately grabs your attention. It combines the digital driver's display with the central infotainment screen to create a much cleaner, more integrated dashboard rather than simply having two screens stuck onto it. Audi's latest MMI interface is intuitive and relatively easy to navigate, and importantly, it doesn't take long to find the functions you use most often. I also really like the new steering wheel. It sounds like a small detail, but the redesigned wheel and its multifunction controls give the cabin a much more contemporary feel. Audi has also reworked the controls around the steering column, with the gear selector moved to the steering column, freeing up space around the centre console. It is a clever use of space and contributes to that feeling that Audi has properly redesigned the cabin rather than simply giving the previous Q3 a technology upgrade.

The cabin itself is typical Audi clean, modern and well put together with the sort of build quality you expect from a premium German brand. There is also a good balance between technology and everyday usability, while the Sportback's body shape doesn't completely sacrifice practicality. The rear bench can slide to help balance passenger and luggage space, while boot capacity is 488 litres and expands substantially with the rear seats folded. There is, however, one feature that really bothered me: the seats. My test car had manually adjustable seats, and I honestly feel that this is an area Audi could have done better. When you are talking about a vehicle with a starting price of R964 000 in this specification, I expect at least electrically adjustable front seats, particularly for the driver. It might sound like a small complaint, but at this level of the market, buyers are paying for that premium experience, and electric seat adjustment should feel like part of the package rather than something you need to add to the options list.

VERDICT

The new Audi Q3 Sportback is an interesting evolution of what was already a strong product for Audi. It doesn't try to reinvent the compact premium SUV formula completely, but instead takes what worked with the previous Q3 and gives it a much more modern interpretation. The Sportback body style is, in my opinion, the one to have because it gives the Q3 a much sleeker and more distinctive presence, particularly in the S line Black specification. The combination of the black exterior, sharper lighting design, flowing roofline and illuminated Audi logo at the rear gives it plenty of road presence without becoming overly flashy. For South African buyers, though, the pricing is where things become interesting. The new range starts at R814 200 for the conventional Q3 and R849 200 for the Sportback, while the S line Black Sportback tested here comes in at R964 000. That represents a significant increase over the outgoing generation, although Audi has also brought a considerably more modern interior, new technology and a fresh exterior design to the table. The range also comes standard with a five-year/100 000 km Audi Freeway Plan, which adds some value to the overall ownership proposition.

The competition is just as tough, though. The BMW X2 brings its own coupe-SUV interpretation to the segment, while the Mercedes-Benz GLA continues to appeal to buyers looking for that three-pointed-star premium experience. The Q3 Sportback's advantage is that it feels like a very well-rounded package: stylish without being excessive, technologically advanced without being overly complicated and comfortable enough for everyday use. The 1.4 TFSI does leave me wanting a little more performance, and the lack of standard electric seat adjustment is difficult to overlook at this price, but the S tronic gearbox does a good job of compensating for the engine's limitations. Ultimately, the new Q3 Sportback feels like Audi has finally brought the Q3 properly into the modern era. It looks sharper, feels more premium inside and has the technology to match its rivals. If you want the practicality of a compact SUV but don't want something that looks like every other SUV on the road, the Sportback makes a compelling case and in S line Black guise, it is easily one of the best-looking versions of the new Q3.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	1.4L TFSI
Gear Box	7-Speed S-Tronic
Power	110kW
Torque	250Nm
Fuel Effeciency	6.8L per 100km
Price	R849,200*

*Base Model

 

Bucket Tech: Honor X5d - Coming Soon

HONOR is shaking up the entry-level smartphone game with a phone that comes with a rather unusual party trick, two screens. The new X5d s packs a 6.78-inch 120Hz display, UNISOC T610 processor, 4GB RAM, 128GB storage and a massive 6000mAh battery, while around the back sits a secondary touch-enabled display that gives you quick access to notifications, media controls and even lets you use the main 50MP AI camera for sharper selfies. It’s a clever bit of tech that gives the X5d s something different in a segment where smartphones can often feel very similar. Add in the practical features and sizeable battery, and HONOR could have a seriously interesting budget offering on its hands.

Despite its budget positioning, the X5d s doesn’t look like it has been built down to a price. HONOR has given it a clean, modern design with a slim profile, rounded edges and a neat camera arrangement, while the dual-screen setup on the rear adds a bit of personality to the overall package. The 6000mAh battery is another big talking point, giving users plenty of capacity for getting through the day without constantly hunting for a charger. It will also be available in a selection of colours, giving buyers a little more choice when it comes to making the phone their own. The HONOR X5d s is arriving soon in South Africa, with a starting price of R2,499 at selected stores.

Monday Choon: Kyau & Albert - Halo

Kyau & Albert are back with “Halo”, a beautifully crafted trance cut that leans into the duo’s signature melodic sound while keeping the production clean and progressive. Released on Euphonic at 128 BPM, the track builds around an emotive melody, driving bassline and atmospheric layers that give it that classic late-night trance feel. What makes “Halo” stand out is its sense of emotion without becoming overly dramatic, with the arrangement gradually building momentum before delivering those euphoric melodic moments Kyau & Albert are known for. The track has also found its way onto Markus Schulz’s In Search of Sunrise 22, including a dedicated rework, which fits perfectly with its warm, atmospheric character.

Bucket Seat: Lepas L6 EV

Lepas is getting ready to make a bigger impression on the South African EV market with the arrival of the new L6 EV, an all-electric crossover that brings together sharp styling, decent performance and a claimed range of up to 450 km. Visually, the L6 has a modern and sporty stance, helped by its 19-inch alloy wheels and red brake calipers, while the front-mounted electric motor produces 160 kW and 275 N.m, sending power to the front wheels. It also supports both AC and DC charging, making it practical for everyday use and longer journeys. Lepas is even sweetening the deal for early adopters, with the limited pre-order package including a 7 kW home charger, standard installation, a Type M charging cable, V2L functionality and R5,000 worth of charging credit.

Inside, the L6 continues with a strong technology focus, featuring an 8.88-inch digital instrument display and a large 13.2-inch central touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. There is also an eight-speaker Sony sound system, wireless smartphone charging, heated and ventilated electric front seats, dual-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof and a powered tailgate. Safety has not been forgotten either, with 20 advanced driver-assistance systems, seven airbags, a panoramic camera and automatic parking forming part of the package. On paper at least, the L6 certainly doesn't feel like Lepas has tried to cut corners when it comes to standard equipment.

But the big number here is that 450 km range. For South African buyers, range remains one of the biggest considerations when making the switch to electric, and the L6's claimed figure should make it capable of handling the daily commute while still offering enough breathing room for longer trips. The inclusion of V2L is another nice touch, giving owners the ability to use the vehicle's battery to power compatible appliances and equipment. Add the home charger and installation into the pre-order package and Lepas is clearly trying to make the transition to EV ownership as straightforward as possible.

The one piece of the puzzle still missing is the price. Lepas has yet to confirm exactly how much the L6 EV will cost in South Africa, and that will ultimately determine where it sits in an increasingly crowded EV market. With Chinese manufacturers continuing to bring more electric models into the country, the L6 will need to offer the right combination of price, range and equipment to get buyers interested. For now, though, the L6 EV certainly looks like an interesting addition to the local market, and with its distinctive styling, 450 km range and generous specification, it is one we will be keeping an eye on. 

Bucket Tech: Huawei Pura X View

Huawei is taking a rather different approach with the new Pura X View, bringing a unique wide-screen concept to the smartphone market. Instead of the usual tall and narrow smartphone display, the Pura X View adopts a much wider 16:9.5 aspect ratio, giving it an almost passport-like appearance in the hand. The 6.39-inch OLED display features a sharp 2232 × 1320 resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate and an impressive 96.1% screen-to-body ratio, making the device particularly suited to watching videos, browsing and consuming content.

Huawei has also packed the Pura X View with some serious hardware, particularly when it comes to photography and battery life. The camera setup includes a 200MP main sensor with optical image stabilisation, an 8MP ultra-wide/macro camera and a 50MP periscope telephoto lens with OIS, giving users plenty of flexibility across different shooting conditions. Then there is the huge 7,000mAh battery, which is particularly impressive considering the phone is just 6.68mm thick and weighs 201g. With support for 66W wired and 50W wireless charging, Huawei has clearly focused on making the Pura X View not only different in design, but also a device capable of comfortably handling heavy daily use.

What makes the Pura X View even more interesting is that Huawei has managed to create something that feels genuinely different in an increasingly familiar smartphone market. The unusual screen size, near edge-to-edge display, capable camera system and substantial battery give it a strong identity, rather than simply being another phone with a slightly different specification sheet. There is no word yet on whether the Huawei Pura X View will become available locally, but keep an eye out on our page to stay in touch with all the latest updates.

Monday Choon: KUKO - Voicemail (Tiësto Remix)

Tiësto puts his signature electronic touch on Cuco’s “Voicemail”, turning the dreamy, laid-back original into something built more for the dancefloor. The remix keeps the track’s nostalgic atmosphere and emotional vocals intact, while adding a cleaner electronic production, driving rhythm and uplifting energy that gives it a fresh club-ready feel. It’s a great example of Tiësto taking a softer indie-pop record and giving it just enough dance influence without losing what made the original so appealing.

Bucket Seat: Mazda CX-5 - First Impressions

Mazda has been relatively quiet in South Africa over the past few years, particularly since Covid, but the brand is slowly starting to find its way back into the spotlight. It’s not an easy task, especially with the growing Chinese onslaught bringing increasingly well-equipped and competitively priced SUVs to our market, but Mazda clearly has a plan, and the new CX-5 is going to play a big part in it. Taking over from one of Mazda’s best-selling models locally, the new CX-5 stays true to the brand’s Kodo design philosophy and, in my opinion, looks fantastic. The styling is clean, sophisticated and unmistakably Mazda, with a great selection of colours available, although the Soul Red was the one that really caught my eye as it popped under the Highveld sunlight. It has the presence of a premium SUV without going overboard with unnecessary styling, which is something Mazda has always managed to get right.

Power comes from a 2.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine producing 132kW and 240Nm, which is more than adequate for everyday driving and provides enough punch when you need to pick up pace or overtake. The six-speed automatic gearbox, however, does let the package down slightly, with the revs climbing higher than expected and the transmission sometimes holding onto gears unnecessarily. A turbocharged engine or a newer gearbox would certainly make the CX-5 even more appealing, particularly when compared with some of the newer competition. Where the CX-5 really impressed me was its ride quality. Whether cruising on the highway or travelling over gravel roads, the suspension remained composed and comfortable, making it feel like a vehicle that would be equally at home as a daily commuter or on a long-distance road trip. The interior has also received a significant overhaul, with the standout feature being the large 12.9-inch infotainment screen, along with a digital instrument cluster and leather-wrapped steering wheel. Wireless CarPlay was somewhat tricky to get working during my drive, eventually requiring a USB-C connection, but with two USB-C ports up front, there is still plenty of convenience.

The new CX-5 is available in four trim levels – Active, Dynamic, Individual and Homura – giving buyers a range of options depending on their budget and desired level of specification. Starting at R578,500, the CX-5 enters an extremely competitive mid-size SUV market, but Mazda is banking on more than just specification and pricing to win buyers over. There is a loyal following for the brand in South Africa, and the CX-5 combines that established reputation with attractive styling, improved technology, excellent comfort and a familiar driving experience. Order books are already open, with the first shipment reportedly almost secured, which shows that there is still a strong appetite for what Mazda offers. The Chinese competition may have changed the game, but the new CX-5 shows that Mazda isn't sitting back – it has a product that could help the brand find its voice again in South Africa.

Pricing and trim levels:

2.5L Active  - R578,500

2.5L Dynamic - R636,000

2.5L Individual - R717,000

2.5L Homura - R749,100

Bucket Tech: Smarter Laundry by Samsung

 

Laundry is one of those household chores that has to get done. But in today's connected home, it doesn’t have to demand constant attention or guesswork. Thanks to artificial intelligence (AI), smart connectivity and innovative detergent technology, laundry is becoming a simpler, more intuitive experience that works around modern lifestyles.

Samsung's Bespoke AI laundry range is designed to make washing clothes more intelligent, efficient and personalised. Instead of relying on users to choose the ideal settings, Samsung's AI-powered washing machines automatically analyse each load and optimise washing conditions to deliver outstanding cleaning results while helping to reduce unnecessary water, energy and detergent usage.

The result is a laundry experience where technology quietly works behind the scenes, allowing consumers to spend less time thinking about laundry and more time doing what they enjoy.

Samsung's intelligent washing technology becomes even more powerful when connected through SmartThing. Whether at work, running errands or relaxing at home, users can monitor, control and manage their washing machine remotely using their compatible Galaxy smartphone. From receiving cycle notifications to adjusting wash programmes and tracking energy usage, SmartThings transforms laundry into a connected experience that fits naturally into busy everyday routines.

Rather than interrupting daily life, laundry becomes another task that simply happens in the background, supported by intelligent technology that keeps users connected wherever they are.

Partnering with OMO further enhances this experience. OMO's concentrated formula is designed to deliver exceptional stain removal while using optimised amounts of detergent, complementing Samsung's intelligent wash cycles that carefully adapt to every load. Together, the appliance and detergent create a smarter system in which every component works in harmony to deliver excellent cleaning performance while supporting more efficient use of resources.

Through innovations like Bespoke AI and SmartThings, Samsung is creating a connected ecosystem where everyday appliances communicate intelligently, anticipate user needs and simplify household management. The laundry room becomes another example of how AI can deliver meaningful convenience, quietly improving everyday experiences without adding extra effort.

Monday Choon: Marshmello, ILLENIUM - Close My Eyes (Feat. SACHA)

 

Marshmello is back with “Close My Eyes”, teaming up with Illenium and Sacha for a track that blends emotional electronic production with a more atmospheric, melodic sound. The production carries that familiar Marshmello energy but is given an added depth through Illenium’s cinematic style, with layered synths, subtle drops and a polished build that keeps the track moving without becoming overly aggressive. Sacha’s vocals are the real standout for me, bringing an emotional and almost haunting quality to the track that fits perfectly with the production. It’s one of those songs that feels equally at home on a late-night drive or with the volume turned up on a big sound system.

Bucket Seat: Hyundai Creta

The compact SUV market in South Africa has become one of the most competitive spaces in the motoring industry, especially with a growing number of Chinese brands arriving with feature-packed vehicles at aggressive prices. Hyundai has clearly taken notice, and the introduction of the new CRETA range seems to be its answer to a market where buyers are looking closely at exactly what they are getting for their money. The biggest talking point has to be the price. The new Hyundai CRETA 1.5 Premium comes in at R434,900, which is an impressive R44,000 cheaper than the outgoing 2024 model. At a time when new vehicle prices continue to climb, it is refreshing to see a manufacturer bringing a newer offering to market at a more affordable price point rather than simply adding another increase.

Under the bonnet, the CRETA Premium uses a 1.5-litre petrol engine producing 84 kW and 144 Nm of torque. These figures are not going to set the world on fire, but for everyday driving, commuting and the occasional longer road trip, it should offer more than enough performance. Hyundai claims fuel consumption of 6.3 litres per 100 km, which should also make it relatively affordable to run. Where the CRETA starts becoming more interesting is with the technology and standard equipment. The Premium model comes with Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth with voice recognition, USB charging, keyless entry and start, automatic headlights and a 4.2-inch supervision display. Safety equipment includes multiple airbags, ESC, hill-start assist, a rear-view monitor, parking sensors and tyre-pressure monitoring.

These features are important because this is exactly where the Chinese competition has been putting pressure on established brands. Manufacturers such as Chery, Haval, OMODA, Jaecoo and others have changed buyer expectations by offering large screens, cameras, advanced technology and long equipment lists at prices that were previously difficult for mainstream brands to match. The CRETA may not necessarily have the biggest touchscreen or the longest list of flashy features in its segment, but Hyundai still brings something extremely valuable to the table: a well-established brand, a strong dealer network and the reassurance that comes with the company's long-term presence in South Africa. The seven-year/200,000 km warranty and four-year/60,000 km service plan also add to that peace of mind.

For buyers wanting something with a bit more excitement, Hyundai is also introducing the CRETA N Line to South Africa for the first time. This is the more interesting model in the range from a performance and technology perspective. The N Line gets a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine producing 117.5 kW and a healthy 253 Nm of torque, paired with a dual-clutch transmission. That is a significant step up from the standard Premium model and should give the CRETA a much stronger and more engaging driving character. Hyundai has also loaded the N Line with technology that helps it compete directly with the increasingly sophisticated Chinese alternatives. A 360-degree camera, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot detection, lane-departure warning and pre-collision avoidance are all included. There is also fatigue detection, rear parking sensors and hill-hold assistance.

Inside and out, the N Line feels like a more premium and distinctive offering, with leather upholstery, wireless smartphone charging, a panoramic sunroof, LED lighting, roof rails and 18-inch alloy wheels. The satin-black grille and N Line styling also help give it a sportier personality. At R569,900, the CRETA N Line is entering territory where there is no shortage of alternatives, particularly from Chinese manufacturers offering plenty of space, technology and equipment for the money. However, Hyundai's advantage is that it is combining modern technology with a brand that South African buyers already know and trust.

The new CRETA range feels like Hyundai recognising that the market has changed. It is no longer enough to simply offer reliability and a good reputation. Buyers now expect technology, safety features, stylish design and value for money as standard. By dropping the entry price significantly while still offering modern equipment, and then introducing the much more powerful and technology-packed N Line, Hyundai has given the CRETA a stronger position in an increasingly crowded market. The Chinese brands may still have an advantage when it comes to offering the biggest feature list for the lowest price, but the new CRETA shows that established manufacturers are not standing still. Hyundai is fighting back with better value, improved technology and the confidence that comes with an established reputation in South Africa.