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.

Bucket Tech: Apple Duo

Apple has finally done it. After years of watching Samsung, Huawei, Google and other manufacturers develop and refine foldable smartphones, Apple has officially entered the market with the iPhone Duo, its very first folding iPhone. And in typical Apple fashion, the company hasn't simply rushed out a foldable device just to say it has one. Instead, the iPhone Duo appears to be Apple's attempt at taking everything that has worked — and everything that hasn't  with existing foldable phones and creating something that feels properly integrated into the iPhone ecosystem.

The big question, though, is whether Apple waited too long.

DESIGN AND DISPLAY

The iPhone Duo features a 5.4-inch outer display when closed and opens up to reveal a much larger 7.6-inch inner display. This gives users the convenience of a compact smartphone while still having access to something closer to a small tablet when they need more screen space.

What Apple has done differently is ensure that both displays share the same aspect ratio. This means content scales proportionally between the outer and inner displays, making the transition feel more seamless rather than feeling like you are switching between two completely different devices.

The inner display also brings ProMotion, Always On functionality and up to 3000 nits of peak outdoor brightness. Apple has also introduced a nano-texture finish designed to reduce reflections and glare while making the crease less visible.

This is an area where Apple clearly seems to have learned from its competitors. Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold range has been one of the biggest names in the foldable market for years, but durability, display creases and the overall feel of the folding screen have always been some of the biggest concerns around foldable technology.

Apple's solution includes a custom multilayer display design, a stronger polymer cover layer and custom adhesives that allow the layers to move against one another during folding, almost like the pages of a book. The idea is to reduce stress on the display over time and keep the screen flatter for longer.

The hinge itself contains more than 100 components and is designed to support the centre of the display when opened. Combined with a magnetic closure system and a titanium construction, the iPhone Duo certainly sounds like one of the more ambitious approaches to foldable durability we have seen.

TECHNOLOGY

Under the hood, the iPhone Duo is powered by Apple's new A20 Pro chip  the same processor found in the iPhone 18 Pro models. Apple says the device delivers up to 35% better sustained performance than the iPhone 17 Pro, thanks in part to a custom-designed vapour chamber cooling system. This is particularly important on a foldable device because running two displays, gaming, multitasking and AI features can generate considerably more heat. The A20 Pro brings a faster CPU, a more powerful GPU and a Dual 16-core Neural Engine designed specifically for Apple's growing AI ambitions.

The iPhone Duo also introduces a dual-battery architecture, with a battery on each side of the device. Apple uses software and energy-balancing algorithms to make the two batteries operate as one. Battery life looks impressive on paper, with Apple claiming up to 24 hours of usage when both displays are used equally. The phone also features Apple's N1 wireless chip with Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6 and Thread, while the new C2 cellular modem brings AI-powered improvements to connectivity and reliability.

THE SOFTWARE EXPERIENCE IS WHERE APPLE COULD MAKE THE DIFFERENCE

Hardware is important, but the real success of the iPhone Duo could come down to software. Samsung and other manufacturers have had years to develop their foldable interfaces, but Apple has the advantage of controlling both the hardware and software experience. iOS 27 has been redesigned specifically for the Duo. Apps and content can react as the phone folds, rotates and changes orientation. Apple has also introduced proper Split View multitasking, allowing two apps to run side by side for the first time on an iPhone. Users can even open two windows of the same application, which could be particularly useful for Safari, productivity and comparison shopping. The larger display also makes Apple's new Siri AI experience more interesting. You could potentially have Siri working on one side of the screen while viewing content or working inside another application on the other. This is where the folding format starts making more sense than simply having a larger screen. The iPhone Duo isn't just designed to turn into a mini tablet  Apple is trying to make that extra display space more useful.

CAMERA TECHNOLOGY GETS A FOLDABLE ADVANTAGE

The folding design also opens up some interesting camera features. The iPhone Duo comes with a 48MP Fusion Main camera and a 48MP Fusion Ultra Wide camera, along with Apple's computational photography technology. But the real advantage is how the two displays work together. Users can take selfies using the higher-quality rear cameras while using the outer display as a preview screen. The person being photographed can also see themselves on the outer display through a feature called Duo Preview. There are also some interesting features designed specifically around the folding design, including Dual Capture in FaceTime and the ability to prop the phone up without needing a tripod. For content creators, the ability to capture 4K video at 120fps in Dolby Vision, combined with the flexibility of the folding design, could make the Duo a very capable device for shooting video on the go.

SO HOW DOES IT DIFFER FROM SAMSUNG AND THE OTHER FOLDABLES?

Apple is definitely not the first company to create a foldable smartphone. In fact, it is arriving very late to the party. Samsung has been refining the Galaxy Z Fold for several generations, while Huawei, Honor, Google and others have also developed increasingly impressive folding devices. Where Apple seems to be taking a different approach is integration. Rather than focusing purely on making the thinnest device or packing in the biggest display possible, Apple appears to have concentrated heavily on how the hardware, software, hinge, displays, cooling and AI all work together. The shared aspect ratio between the two screens is a good example of this. The custom display layers and adhesives are another. Then there is the way iOS 27 adapts as the phone opens and closes. Apple's strength has always been taking an existing technology and refining the experience around it. We saw it with smartphones, tablets, smartwatches and even wireless earbuds. Apple was rarely first, but it often waited until it believed the technology was mature enough to deliver the experience it wanted.

WAS THE WAIT WORTH IT?

Based purely on the technology Apple has introduced, I would say the wait may actually have been worth it. Foldable phones have always been exciting, but they have also come with compromises. Durability concerns, visible creases, battery limitations and software that sometimes doesn't fully take advantage of the larger display have been common issues. The iPhone Duo looks like Apple has spent those years watching the market develop before introducing its own solution. That doesn't necessarily mean Apple has created the perfect foldable phone  and real-world testing will ultimately answer that question — but the technology behind the hinge, display construction, cooling system and software integration suggests that Apple didn't want to simply release an iPhone that folds. 

THE BIG QUESTION: PRICE

Apple's foldable enters a market where premium foldables are already among the most expensive smartphones available. Devices such as Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold models have traditionally commanded flagship-level pricing, while some of the latest foldables from Huawei and other competitors can push even further into luxury territory. The article provided does not include the official pricing for the iPhone Duo, so a direct price comparison cannot yet be made from the information available. However, considering the titanium construction, dual displays, complex hinge system, A20 Pro processor and Apple's usual premium positioning, this is unlikely to be a cheap iPhone.

And that could be the biggest challenge for Apple.

The iPhone Duo may have the technology to compete with  and potentially improve on  what Samsung and other manufacturers have been doing for years. But consumers will ultimately decide whether Apple's refined approach to the foldable phone is worth paying a premium for. For now, though, one thing is clear: Apple may have arrived late to the foldable party, but it certainly hasn't arrived quietly.

The iPhone Duo looks like one of the most significant changes to the iPhone in years, combining Apple's familiar ecosystem with a completely new form factor. Whether it becomes the foldable phone that finally takes the category mainstream remains to be seen, but after waiting this long, Apple has certainly made sure its first attempt is packed with technology.

Monday Choon: ARTBAT & David Guetta feat Gotye and Kimbra - Somebody That I Used To Know

In what feels like forever since ARTBAT first dropped this banger at one of their live sets, they have finally officially released the track. The remix of Gotye's "Somebody that I used to know" has been a cult favourite for over a year now with various artists also playing it during their sets at festivals, most recently Koralov. I think it had to do with licensing issues with the various record labels coming to an agreement for the use of the track but I'm glad they sorted all the legal stuff so we can finally appreciate just how good this remix is. Also, while it has ARTBAT signature style of sound, there was an undertone of David Guetta's future rave element there and it goes to show since he was also part of making this remix. The drop is probably one of the best you going to hear so turn up the volume and enjoy. 

Bucket Seat: BMW iX3 Nuwe Klasse

BMW has officially introduced the new-generation iX3 in South Africa, and this is a very important model for the brand. It is the first production model to come from BMW’s Neue Klasse programme and, more than just being a new electric SUV, it gives us a glimpse into what the future of BMW is going to look like.

For me, one of the biggest talking points has to be the design. I really like what BMW has done with the Neue Klasse styling. It is completely different from what we have seen from BMW before, yet it still manages to look unmistakably like a BMW. The design is clean, modern and quite unique, and I think that is something BMW has done particularly well here. It has created a design language that feels very much its own, rather than following the trends we are seeing from other manufacturers.

The new iX3 also feels like a significant step forward from the existing iX. While the iX was certainly a bold move for BMW when it first arrived, the new iX3 takes that idea and evolves it into something that feels more refined and more representative of where the brand is heading. This isn't simply a facelift or an update; BMW describes it as a complete leap forward in development, and I think that is quite evident when you look at the car.

The iX3 50 xDrive is powered by BMW’s latest sixth-generation eDrive technology, producing 345 kW and driving all four wheels. It offers an impressive claimed range of up to 820 km on the WLTP cycle, while 400 kW charging means that this is an EV designed not only for city driving but also for long-distance travel. BMW has also introduced its new “Heart of Joy” system, which manages the drivetrain and driving dynamics to deliver the kind of precision and responsiveness we have come to expect from the brand.

Inside, the technology takes another major step forward. BMW Panoramic iDrive becomes one of the defining features of the new iX3, creating a much more immersive digital experience while still keeping the driver at the centre of the car. Behind all of this is BMW’s new electronics and software architecture, including four high-performance “superbrains” that manage everything from driving dynamics and automated driving to infotainment and comfort.

What makes the iX3 particularly interesting is that these technologies won't be exclusive to this model. BMW plans to introduce Neue Klasse technology across around 40 new models and model updates by 2027, making the iX3 effectively the starting point for a completely new generation of BMW vehicles.

There is also an entry-level BMW iX3 40 on the way, featuring rear-wheel drive, which will arrive in South Africa during the first quarter of 2027. This should give buyers another option and hopefully make the Neue Klasse experience accessible to a wider audience.

Of course, the biggest challenge for the new iX3 is going to be its pricing. There is no getting away from the fact that this is a premium product and the price is going to be stiff. However, when you look beyond the badge and the styling, there is a huge amount of technology packed into this vehicle. From its new electric drivetrain and impressive range to its software architecture, digital interface and driving technology, the iX3 offers considerably more than meets the eye.

For me, the new BMW iX3 is an exciting glimpse into the future of the brand. I really like the Neue Klasse design and the fact that BMW has managed to create something so distinctive that it feels like its own identity. The iX3 is a major step forward from the iX and, more importantly, it sets the tone for what we can expect from BMW over the next few years. It may come at a premium price, but this is much more than just another electric SUV — it is the beginning of a new era for BMW.

Bucket Tech: Samsung Scan to Pay

Samsung is making everyday payments even more convenient with the introduction of Scan to Pay provided by EFT Corp, a new QR payment feature now available within Samsung Wallet.

Designed to make in-store transactions fast, seamless and secure, Scan to Pay gives Galaxy users a simple new way to pay at participating merchants. The service provides consumers with a convenient alternative to physical card payments, helping to make checkout quicker and easier.

The process is simple: As soon as you see a QR Code as an option to pay, whether Online or at a store, simply follow these 3 simple steps.

Open Samsung Wallet,

Scan the QR code,

Confirm the payment.

Scan. Pay. Done!

Scan to Pay is designed to remove unnecessary friction from everyday transactions. There is no need to carry a physical card or navigate a complicated setup process. At participating locations, users can simply scan the QR code, authenticate their payment and complete their purchase.

From quick coffee runs to grocery shopping and dining out, Scan to Pay helps make the checkout experience faster and simpler, giving consumers more time to get on with their day.

The feature is provided by Scan to Pay, South Africa's leading alternative payment solutions provider, which is helping drive the evolution of digital payments by combining the convenience of QR code technology with the needs of modern consumers and businesses.

With more than 600 000 acceptance locations across South Africa and over 19 million app inclusions across consumer banking, fintech and financial service provider applications, Scan to Pay is helping expand access to frictionless digital payments and accelerate the move towards a more cashless economy.

The addition of Scan to Pay further expands the Samsung Wallet ecosystem, bringing more everyday functionality together in one convenient experience.

“Samsung doesn’t just focus on tech and AI innovation for Galaxy users. One of the core fundamentals within the product design process is having a deep understanding of what our users do with our devices, and importantly how we can make everyday usage more intuitive and easier. Our Wallet encompasses the true sense of what a Digital Wallet should be, we will continue to add practical innovation within our Wallet functionality,” says Zahir Cajee, MX Lead: Product and commercial Samsung South Africa.

The feature offers a seamless way to make payments without needing to reach for a physical card. With Samsung Wallet's focus on convenience and security, Scan to Pay combines a quick checkout experience with the protection of Samsung Knox and biometric authentication.

Payments are protected by Samsung's defence-grade security platform, while biometric approval adds a layer of security to the payment experience.

As more consumers discover the convenience of QR payments, Samsung is encouraging Galaxy users to try Scan to Pay for the first time and make it part of their everyday payment routine. Scan to Pay is now available within Samsung Wallet at participating locations.

Monday Choon: Hardwell & W&W - Bangkok

 

It’s been a while since I last featured a proper hardstyle-influenced track on the blog, and who better to bring it back than two of the biggest names in the game, W&W and Hardwell. Their new collaboration, “Bangkok,” is exactly what you’d expect from these kings of the harder side of electronic music big, energetic and built for the main stage. The track brings together W&W’s signature high-energy sound with Hardwell’s unmistakable festival style, delivering a powerful production that hits hard from start to finish. If you’re a fan of the harder sounds, this is definitely one to turn up loud.

Bucket Seat: Volkswagen T-ROC

Volkswagen has officially introduced the all-new T-Roc in South Africa, and I have to say, this is probably one of the better-looking Volkswagen SUVs to hit the market in recent years.

The second-generation T-Roc gets a completely new design, and while it still looks unmistakably like a Volkswagen, there is something quite different about it. Personally, I really like the way it looks. There are certain elements that remind me of the Volkswagen ID.4, particularly the cleaner front-end design, the lighting signature and the overall proportions. It has a much more modern and sophisticated appearance than the outgoing model.

It is also bigger than before, with the new T-Roc growing by 122mm in length and gaining 28mm in wheelbase. That translates into a more substantial road presence while also creating more room inside. The design is probably the biggest change, though, with the illuminated Volkswagen badge, continuous light strip and sharper rear treatment giving it a much more premium look.

Inside, Volkswagen has also brought the T-Roc up to date with a much more digital cabin. Depending on the model, you get either a 10.3-inch or 12.9-inch infotainment display, a digital cockpit, ambient lighting and Volkswagen's new Drive Experience Dial. The higher-spec R-Line models add features such as IQ.Light LED Matrix headlights, sports comfort seats and additional technology.

There are three models available in South Africa, starting with the T-Roc Life, followed by the sportier R-Line and range-topping R-Line Black Style.

But perhaps the biggest surprise for me is the pricing.

The new T-Roc starts at R599,900 for the 1.4 TSI Life, with the R-Line priced at R689,900 and the R-Line Black Style coming in at R709,900, all including VAT and emissions tax.

What makes this interesting is that the new T-Roc is actually cheaper than the outgoing model, despite being larger, newer and significantly more technologically advanced. That immediately makes it a much more interesting proposition in the highly competitive compact SUV market.

Power comes from a 1.4-litre turbocharged TSI engine producing 110kW and 250Nm, paired with an 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. It isn't trying to be a performance SUV, but the combination should offer a good balance between performance and everyday usability.

Practicality hasn't been forgotten either, with seating for five and a 475-litre boot, making it a fairly sensible option for families and everyday driving.

For me, though, the new T-Roc is all about the combination of design, technology and price. I really like the way Volkswagen has evolved the styling without making it look like just another generic SUV. It has a bit of that ID.4 influence that I think works particularly well, while still retaining the familiar Volkswagen identity.

At R599,900 to start, the new T-Roc also undercuts its predecessor while offering more space, more technology and a completely fresh design. That could make this one of the more interesting Volkswagen launches for the South African market.

Bucket Tech: Samsung S26 FE

Samsung has officially introduced the new Galaxy S26 FE, bringing many of the features found in its flagship Galaxy S range to a more accessible device. It also becomes the first phone in the Galaxy S26 family to launch with Samsung’s new One UI 9 software and Android 17.

At the heart of the S26 FE is Samsung’s Exynos 2500 processor, paired with a large 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display. The screen features a 120Hz refresh rate and can reach an impressive 1,900 nits of brightness, making it easy to view even in direct sunlight. The phone itself remains relatively slim at just 7.4mm and weighs 193g.

The camera setup has also received plenty of attention. Around the back is a 50MP main camera, 12MP ultra-wide and an 8MP telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom, while the front gets an upgraded 12MP selfie camera. Samsung has also brought across features such as Nightography, Super Steady video and My FanCam, which can automatically keep a selected subject in the centre of the frame while recording.

Of course, AI is a big part of the S26 FE experience. Samsung’s latest Galaxy AI features can help with everything from editing photographs using simple prompts to creating videos from your photos and clips. Features such as Now Brief and Now Nudge are designed to make the phone more useful throughout the day, while Gemini can handle more complicated tasks through simple voice or text requests. Circle to Search has also been improved to allow multiple objects in an image to be searched at once.

Powering everything is a 4,900mAh battery with support for 45W fast wired charging and 15W wireless charging. The S26 FE also gets Wi-Fi 6E, adding faster and more reliable connectivity to the package.

One of the more impressive aspects is Samsung's long-term software support. The S26 FE will receive seven generations of Android/OS upgrades and seven years of security updates, which should keep the phone feeling current for a very long time.

For South African buyers, the Galaxy S26 FE launches on 4 September 2026 in Blueberry, Graphite and Pistachio. Pricing starts at R15,499 for the 128GB model, while the 256GB version will cost R17,999. Samsung is also including a six-month trial of Google AI Pro, which normally costs R429.99 per month and includes additional AI features and 5TB of cloud storage.

Overall, the Galaxy S26 FE looks like Samsung’s attempt to bring the best parts of its flagship S-series experience to a more affordable package. You get a big 120Hz AMOLED display, capable cameras, plenty of AI features, fast charging and, importantly, years of software support. It may not have all the bells and whistles of the flagship S26 models, but for someone looking for a premium Samsung experience without stepping into flagship pricing, the S26 FE could be a very interesting option.

Monday Choon: AVNT - Echo

Another track we’re featuring from the brilliant Anjunabeats Volume 17 is “Echo” by AVNT, an artist bringing a fresh and exciting energy to the Anjunabeats sound. The track blends progressive and melodic elements with an uplifting, atmospheric feel, creating something that feels familiar to fans of the genre while still offering its own identity. There’s a real sense of movement throughout the production, with the melodic layers and driving rhythm giving it that perfect balance between emotion and dancefloor energy. AVNT is definitely an artist worth keeping an eye on, and “Echo” is a great example of why this new generation of producers is helping push the genre forward.

Bucket Tech: Changan Hunter K50 REEV

The South African bakkie market has become one of the most competitive segments in the automotive industry, and we are seeing more and more manufacturers bringing products to our shores that challenge the traditional way of doing things. The Changan Hunter REEV Double Cab is perhaps one of the most interesting examples of this, because it isn't simply another double-cab bakkie entering an already crowded market. Instead, it introduces a completely different approach to electrification. The Hunter is claimed to be the world's first range-extended electric double-cab bakkie, combining a 31.2kWh battery pack with a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine that acts as an onboard generator. The electric drivetrain produces a claimed 200kW and a staggering 3 470Nm of torque. Changan also claims that the Hunter can achieve more than 1 000km of range, which immediately caught my attention. I had high expectations for the Hunter. The idea of having the performance and smoothness of an electric vehicle, while still having a petrol engine available to extend your range, sounds like an ideal solution for the South African market. After spending some time with the Hunter, however, I found myself impressed by the vehicle in many areas, but slightly disappointed by others.

DESIGN

There is no denying that the Changan Hunter is a striking-looking bakkie. My particular test vehicle came finished in a dark green/olive colour, and I think this suited the Hunter exceptionally well. It gave the vehicle a rugged, almost military-inspired appearance, while also allowing the numerous design details to stand out. The Hunter is imposing. It has a large and aggressive front end, a bold grille treatment and distinctive lighting that immediately gives it a strong road presence. It doesn't look like Changan has tried to copy any of the established players in the bakkie market either, which I really appreciate. There is a certain individuality to the Hunter. From the side, the proportions are typical of a large double-cab bakkie, but the sculpted bodywork, pronounced wheel arches and large wheels give it plenty of character. It has that elevated stance that you expect from a modern bakkie, while the design manages to blend ruggedness with a more futuristic appearance. The rear continues the same theme, with chunky styling and a strong stance. I found myself looking back at the Hunter whenever I parked it, which is always a good indication that a designer has got something right. The dark green paint also helped tremendously. While the Hunter would certainly stand out in almost any colour, the olive shade gave it a distinctive character that made it feel different from the usual white, silver and grey bakkies that dominate our roads. For me, the design is one of the Hunter's biggest strengths, it looks expensive, it looks tough and, most importantly, it looks different.

PERFORMANCE

This is where the Hunter really starts to become interesting, the REEV system is what sets this bakkie apart from almost everything else currently available. Rather than being a conventional petrol or diesel bakkie, the Hunter uses its electric drivetrain to power the wheels, with the 31.2kWh battery providing the energy and the 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine acting as an onboard generator. The result is an incredibly smooth driving experience. The claimed 200kW output makes the Hunter seriously quick, particularly for a vehicle of this size. But it is the claimed 3 470Nm of torque that really grabs your attention. Electric motors are brilliant at delivering instant torque, and the Hunter is no exception. Put your foot down and the response is immediate. There is no waiting for a turbocharger to spool up or for a conventional gearbox to find the correct ratio. The Hunter simply moves. And it moves very quickly, Overtaking on the highway is effortless, while pulling away from traffic lights can be surprisingly entertaining. The power delivery is smooth and linear, making the Hunter feel much more like an electric SUV than a traditional bakkie. For everyday driving, I genuinely enjoyed the experience, starting the vehicle is slightly unconventional. There isn't a traditional start/stop button that you press before driving away. Instead, you simply get into the vehicle, press the brake pedal and you're ready to go. It takes a little getting used to, particularly if you've spent years driving conventional vehicles, but once you understand the system, it becomes second nature. The Hunter also surprised me off-road, I'll be honest, I was initially a little hesitant about taking it off-road. Having a large battery pack underneath the vehicle and an electric drivetrain naturally makes you think twice when you are dealing with rocks, uneven terrain and obstacles. However, the Hunter coped remarkably well, the electric drivetrain actually works in its favour when driving slowly over difficult terrain. The immediate torque delivery allows for very precise throttle inputs, and the vehicle felt composed and comfortable when the road disappeared beneath the wheels. It gave me more confidence than I expected, where I was less impressed was the real-world range. Changan's claim of more than 1 000km was one of the major reasons I was so interested in testing the Hunter. In theory, this range-extended system should offer the best of both worlds: electric driving around town and the reassurance of a petrol generator when travelling long distances. Unfortunately, my experience didn't quite live up to the expectations created by that 1 000km-plus figure. Having done a long distance journey with it, the Hunter struggled to give me 600km from the "tank of fuel" with me having to top up in fear of running out of fuel before I reach my destination. This was probably my biggest disappointment with the vehicle.

COMFORT & TECHNOLOGY

Inside the Hunter, Changan has created a cabin that feels much more like an SUV than a traditional workhorse. The driving position is commanding, visibility is good and there is plenty of space for occupants. The cabin is modern and packed with technology, which is exactly what buyers in this segment are increasingly demanding. The days when a double-cab bakkie was simply a work vehicle are long gone. These vehicles are now family cars, lifestyle vehicles, long-distance commuters and weekend adventure machines. The Hunter understands this shift, the interior has a modern design and a good level of technology, while the smooth electric drivetrain makes the cabin a particularly pleasant place to spend time. There is also a sense of refinement to the way the Hunter drives. Without conventional gear changes, acceleration is smooth and almost completely uninterrupted, which makes it feel more premium than you might expect. However, there was one particular technology issue that really frustrated me., the wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity. When you stop, park and lock the Hunter, the vehicle doesn't immediately shut down completely. The interior systems remain active for a short period of time. Normally, this wouldn't be an issue, the problem is that my iPhone remained connected to Apple CarPlay even after I had locked the vehicle and walked away. This completely confused my phone because it believed it was still connected to the car. On several occasions, I would return to the vehicle and find that the CarPlay connection wasn't behaving as it should. The only workaround I found was to restart my iPhone. For someone who relies heavily on their phone for navigation, calls and music, this became incredibly frustrating. It is a relatively small issue, but it is exactly the kind of software quirk that can take the shine off an otherwise impressive technology package. Hopefully, this is something that Changan can address with a software update.

VERDICT

The Changan Hunter REEV is an incredibly interesting addition to the South African bakkie market. It is different, and I think that is important, rather than simply producing another double-cab to compete against the likes of the established Japanese, European and American players, Changan has taken a completely different approach by combining an electric drivetrain with a petrol-powered range extender. And in theory, this makes a lot of sense for South Africa. Our charging infrastructure is improving, but range anxiety remains one of the biggest barriers for people considering an electric vehicle. The Hunter's REEV system attempts to solve that problem by giving you the benefits of electric driving without making you completely dependent on charging infrastructure. The performance is excellent, the design is bold and distinctive, the cabin is comfortable and it proved itself to be surprisingly capable off-road. But it isn't perfect, my biggest disappointment was the real-world range compared to the expectations created by the 1 000km-plus claim. The Apple CarPlay issue was another frustration that I hope can be resolved through software. Despite these shortcomings, I came away from my time with the Hunter impressed by what Changan is attempting. This feels like a vehicle that is looking towards the future rather than simply trying to compete with the present. The Changan Hunter REEV may not be perfect, but it is innovative, incredibly quick, comfortable and genuinely different. And in an increasingly crowded bakkie market, being different might just be one of its biggest advantages. When you look at other range extender electric models in the market, the Leapmotor C10 sticks out and works like a charm. Maybe the two companies should sit together and have a knowledge sharing exercise as they both do certain things particularly well but others, not so much. 

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	Electric Drive Train with 2.0L Turbocharged Petrol Range Extender Engine
Gear Box	Single speed electic drive
Power	200kW
Torque	470Nm
Battery size	31.2kW
Price	R799,900