Bucket Seat: Suzuki Across GL 1.5 Automatic

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

DESIGN

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

PERFORMANCE

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

COMFORT

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

VERDICT

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

SPECIFICATIONS

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

Bucket Tech: Hisense Launches New MiniLED TV

Hisense, a world-renowned consumer electronics brand, has officially unveiled two new MiniLED TV models in South Africa, the E8S Series and U6S Series. Available at Game and Makro from 1 June, these premium audio-visual models cater to performance enthusiasts and family-orientated users, respectively. They deliver immersive high-end viewing experiences and redefine the standards of living room entertainment across South African households.

Strategically Positioned Dual Flagships for Diverse Lifestyles

Living rooms in South Africa serve varied leisure purposes. Sports fans cheer fervently for goals, while families relish cosy movie moments together. Designed to satisfy diverse lifestyle demands, Hisense E8S and U6S Series bring every personal passion vividly onto the screen.

Hisense E8S Series: Performance Flagship Built for Sports and Gaming Thrills

Tailored for users pursuing supreme fluidity and immersion, the E8S Series is an ideal pick for sports lovers and hardcore gamers. Equipped with native 144Hz high refresh rate MiniLED panel, Hisense Hi-View AI Picture Engine and AMD FreeSync Premium technology, it delivers sharp, smear-free visuals. Fast-paced football matches, high-speed racing games and thrilling action sequences showcase intricate dynamic details, creating a lifelike on-site viewing feel.

With Hisense serving as the Official VAR Display Provider for the FIFA World Cup 2026™, the brand’s latest MiniLED lineup reflects the same commitment to precision, clarity and high-performance visual technology trusted at the highest level of global football. As anticipation builds ahead of the tournament, the E8S Series is designed to bring that same stadium energy into South African homes, allowing fans to experience every tackle, replay and match-defining moment with exceptional realism.

Boasting a Devialet-tuned built-in subwoofer, the TV produces layered, immersive sound. Crowd roars, engine rumbles and dramatic movie sound effects can be enjoyed at home, creating a private cinema and gaming haven. Available in sizes from 55-inch to 85-inch, it fits compact apartment lounges and spacious home theatres alike, turning every match viewing and gaming session into a stunning sensory treat.

Hisense U6S Series: Premium Flagship for Daily Family Entertainment

Focused on everyday family leisure scenarios, the U6S Series brings warmth and refinement to household life with exquisite picture quality, immersive sound and user-friendly design. Powered by MiniLED backlight technology and Hi-View AI Picture Engine, coupled with Filmmaker Mode, it faithfully restores original cinematic visuals. Heartwarming dramas, vibrant animations and stunning natural documentaries display authentic colour gradation, offering comfortable eye-friendly viewing for all family members.

Also fitted with a Devialet-calibrated built-in subwoofer, it reproduces rich, pleasant sound for music and daily conversations. With size options ranging from 55-inch to 75-inch, it suits most South African living spaces. It enables relaxing premium enjoyment during family movie nights and casual leisure time.

Based on local consumption habits and daily demands, Hisense highlights three core advantages to address user needs:

Ultra-smooth Visuals Redefine Sports and Gaming Experience

As South African audiences gear up for a packed sporting calendar, including the road to the FIFA World Cup 2026™, demand for immersive, stadium-quality home viewing experiences continues to grow. The 144Hz high refresh rate and AMD FreeSync Premium technology eliminate blurriness and ghosting on fast-moving footage, delivering stadium-grade viewing experience at home. For console gamers, low-latency and ultra-smooth visuals ensure instant response, boosting immersion and making E8S a top choice among young users.

Professional Audio-visual Performance Builds Shared Family Leisure Space

Both models adopt Devialet professional sound tuning and Hisense Hi-View AI Picture Engine, achieving outstanding sound and image performance. Whether for family movie gatherings or weekend music parties, superb audio and visuals transform the living room into a shared entertainment hub, perfectly matching local families’ fondness for reunion and shared fun.

Intelligent Eye Protection Adapts to All Household Scenarios

Both TVs come with AI ambient light-sensing technology, AI RGB sensor for E8S and standard AI sensor for U6S. The screen automatically adjusts brightness and colour temperature according to surrounding light conditions. It ensures comfortable viewing under bright daylight and dim night surroundings, relieving eye strain and protecting family eyesight during daily use.

The launch of Hisense E8S and U6S Series further completes the brand’s high-end television layout in South Africa. With distinctive positioning, the two products meet demands spanning extreme performance and daily home use, allowing local consumers of varied lifestyles to find their ideal premium MiniLED TV. Going forward, Hisense will stay user-centric, roll out more innovative electronic products and help local families enjoy upgraded smart living experiences.

As South Africans gear up for the excitement and anticipation surrounding the FIFA World Cup 2026™, Hisense is helping bring the spirit of the tournament closer to home through next-generation viewing experiences designed for modern sports fans. As the Official VAR Display Provider for the FIFA World Cup 2026™, Hisense continues to showcase the same precision, clarity and performance trusted at the highest level of global football, allowing local consumers to enjoy every moment of the game with immersive stadium-quality visuals from the comfort of their living rooms.

Monday Choon: Tiësto - Don't Lose Your Head feat Olivia Sebastianelli

 

When Tiesto said he was heading back to his trance roots, many felt that it would be short lived or diluted with modern sounds and he would never really go back to his roots. Well, those same people are left eating their words as he dropped his latest track last week featuring Olivia Sebastianelli on vocals and it's yet another trance bomb. He first previewed the track during his live set at EDC Las Vegas last month and it was a crowd pleaser of note, last week he released the track and it's been doing great on the streams and solidifies his commitment to the trance culture. 

Bucket Seat: Suzuki Jimny 5-Door GL Manual

The Suzuki Jimny has long been a fan favourite in South Africa with it having its own fan club and multiple groups that plan Jimny events around the country. The number of accessories and modifications one can do to their Jimny has even expanded. Apart from the appealing price point, the Suzuki Jimny is one of those cars that is genuinely fun to drive because it has so much personality compared to most SUV's on the market today. I got to spend time with the updated GL 5-door model recently and during my time with it did some long distance driving to see how it compared to the launch 5-door model. 

DESIGN

The Suzuki Jimny 5-Door GL Manual is one of those rare vehicles that immediately stands out on South African roads without trying too hard. While most modern SUVs have moved toward rounded shapes and overly futuristic styling, the Jimny stays true to its roots with its boxy proportions, upright stance and old-school off-road design. The extended wheelbase of the 5-door model adds practicality without ruining the charm of the original 3-door version. In fact, the longer body actually makes it look more balanced and purposeful. The flat bonnet, circular headlights, chunky wheel arches and vertical grille give it genuine character, almost like a miniature G-Wagon designed for real-world adventures rather than social media appearances. The GL trim keeps things simple and rugged, which honestly suits the Jimny’s personality perfectly. It looks functional, durable and unapologetically mechanical in a market full of soft-looking crossovers.

PERFORMANCE

Under the bonnet sits Suzuki’s familiar 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine producing 75 kW and 130 Nm, paired to a 5-speed manual gearbox. On paper, those numbers don’t sound impressive, especially considering the added size and weight of the 5-door model, but the Jimny has never been about outright speed. Around town, the lightweight construction and short gearing make it feel lively enough, while the manual gearbox adds a level of engagement that many modern SUVs have lost. On the highway, however, the Jimny starts to show its limitations. Overtaking requires planning and the engine can feel strained at higher speeds, particularly when fully loaded. But where the Jimny completely redeems itself is off-road. Thanks to its ladder-frame chassis, low-range gearbox and Suzuki’s ALLGRIP PRO four-wheel-drive system, this little SUV is capable of tackling terrain that would leave many larger and more expensive SUVs struggling. It’s not fast, but it feels honest and incredibly capable when taken off the beaten path.

COMFORT

Comfort is probably the biggest compromise you make when buying a Jimny. The cabin is practical rather than luxurious, with hard plastics throughout and a design focused more on durability than premium feel. That being said, the 5-door version significantly improves everyday usability compared to the smaller 3-door model. Rear passengers finally have proper space and getting into the back seats is no longer a gymnastic exercise. The upright seating position and large windows create excellent visibility, which makes the Jimny feel easy to drive in urban environments. Ride quality, however, remains fairly firm and bouncy due to the solid axle suspension setup. On rough roads and gravel, it feels completely at home, but on highways you’ll notice wind noise and body movement more than you would in a traditional crossover. Long-distance comfort isn’t its strongest point, but for weekend trips, city driving and outdoor adventures, the Jimny still manages to feel charming rather than uncomfortable.

TECHNOLOGY

The Jimny 5-Door GL Manual keeps technology relatively simple, but it covers all the essentials modern buyers expect. The infotainment system includes a touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, along with Bluetooth, USB functionality and steering-mounted controls. You also get rear parking sensors and a reverse camera, which help compensate for the upright design when parking in tighter spaces. While the system itself isn’t as flashy or advanced as some of the newer Chinese rivals entering the South African market, it remains easy to use and functional. Safety features include ABS, electronic stability control, hill-hold assistance and dual airbags, which are acceptable for this segment, although some competitors now offer more advanced driver assistance technologies. The Jimny’s technology approach feels very similar to the rest of the vehicle simple, practical and focused on functionality rather than trying to overwhelm drivers with unnecessary features.

VERDICT

The Jimny offers something those vehicles simply cannot replicate personality. It feels authentic in a world where most SUVs have become overly polished and emotionally disconnected. The combination of timeless design, genuine off-road capability and everyday usability makes the 5-door Jimny one of the most unique vehicles currently available in the South African market. It’s a car you buy because you love what it represents, not because it wins every comparison test. And for buyers who value character, adventure and individuality over outright refinement, the Jimny remains incredibly easy to fall in love with.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	1.5-liter Naturally Aspirated
Gear Box	5-Speed Manual
Power	77kW
Torque	138Nm
Fuel Economy	6.4L per 100km
Price	R439,000.00

Bucket Tech: Samsung Privacy Display - Redefining Personal Space

 

In an era where mobile phones have become vaults of our most personal moments, conversations and business dealings, Samsung is turning privacy into a basic feature. With the introduction of the Privacy Display feature on the new Galaxy S26 Ultra, the brand is not just keeping up with the AI (artificial intelligence) era, it’s quietly reshaping how users interact with it.

Imagine your screen as a stage that only you can see. Privacy Display aims to limit viewing angles so that sensitive content is only visible to the user, shielding it from wandering eyes in public spaces. It’s a slight shift in hardware capability, but a giant leap in everyday confidence. Whether you’re reviewing contracts on a plane or replying to messages in a packed café, the feature aims to ensure discretion with minimal disruption.

A few South African content creators and influencers recently got a hands-on experience of the Galaxy S26 Ultra and all admired the device as a seamless, intuitive companion powered by intelligent features that simplify everyday life.

The campaign didn’t just talk about innovation, it handed it to these culture-shapers to explore in real life. The result? A series of authentic, relatable moments where privacy isn’t a luxury, but a necessity.

In his post, which he titled ‘For My Eyes Only’, hitmaker Musa Keys is laying on a couch at-home, in the company of two of his buddies when the one sitting closest to him realises that he can’t see what Musa is doing on his phone when he tries to take a peek. In response to the post, his followers praised the feature as a must-have for creatives who value control over their work.

Model and actor Maps Maponyane digitally created his identical twin, who sat next to him to demonstrate how the feature works in a practical day-to-day scenario. TV presenter Chanley Wong, who is constantly in public spaces, highlights the balance between visibility and privacy. She got her script while at the gym and a contract via email while out for dinner, both confidential communications. On both occasions, Privacy Display helped her ensure that the messages were protected from prying eyes.

What stands out in the reception of Privacy Display is how naturally it integrates into different lifestyles. From home, studios to airport lounges, TV sets and daily commutes, the feature isn’t confined to a niche use case. It’s universal. And that’s the quiet brilliance of it.

In the same way AI is making mobile phones more intuitive, Samsung is ensuring they’re also more personal. Privacy Display doesn’t demand attention, it earns appreciation in the moments when it matters most.

We live in a hyper-connected world where privacy has become a luxury, but Samsung has just made it standard

Monday Choon: Darren Tate & Genix - Taking Us Higher

 

Genix is no stranger to this feature on our blog with him having featured multiple times over the years, this time see's him team up with Darren Tate,with a legacy in dance music spanning over two decades and multiple aliases, the British multi-instrumentalist, Darren Tate, has racked up twelve Top 40 UK singles across his established career as DT8 Project, Angelic with Judge Jules, Jurgen Vries, Orion and Citizen Caned. Taking us higher which is the title of today's featured track is a mixture of sounds from the duo that just flows with harmony. 

Bucket Seat: Mercedes-Maybach SL Monogram Series

The Mercedes-Maybach SL Monogram Series redefines the roadster as a masterpiece of sensory indulgence. It is the sportiest and most extravagant model in Maybach’s storied history, blending the exhilarating soul of a sports car with the whispered luxury of a private sanctuary.

In keeping with the brand philosophy, the Mercedes-Maybach SL offers a holistic sensory experience. The contours of the brand-specific, chrome-finished radiator grille are illuminated, as is the finely integrated MAYBACH lettering. The distinctive bonnet bears an upright Mercedes star and a chromed fin running front to rear along its centre. 

Curated Ambience: A Study in Contrast

Every line of the Maybach SL is an invitation to witness automotive artistry. The Monogram Series debuts with two meticulously curated concepts, each offering a distinct personality. Red Ambience pairs Obsidian Black metallic with the vibrant, multi-layered depth of MANUFAKTUR Garnet Red metallic. For a more ethereal presence, White Ambience balances Obsidian Black with the luminous MANUFAKTUR Opalite White Magno.

A Cocoon of Light and Air

The interior is designed to convey a feeling of weightless elegance. Wrapped entirely in sustainably tanned Crystal White MANUFAKTUR Exclusive Nappa leather, the cabin creates a cocooning effect that remains airy and open. From the new floral design of the comfort seats to the silver chrome accents and galvanized backrests, every detail is a testament to skilled craftsmanship. The acoustic-comfort soft top, featuring a discreetly integrated Maybach pattern, ensures that even with the top closed, the cabin remains a serene gallery of silence.

Effortless Power, Refined Precision

The heart of the Maybach SL is a 4.0-litre biturbo V8, delivering a commanding 430 kW. This power is managed by the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission and fully variable 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive, ensuring every journey is as secure as it is spirited. The driving experience is further elevated by Maybach-specific suspension featuring semi-active hydraulic roll stabilisation and softer steel springs to absorb road imperfections. Comprehensive insulation measures and a noise-optimized exhaust system preserve the tranquillity typical of the brand, while standard rear-axle steering provides the precision required for winding coastal roads, making the Maybach SL as manoeuvrable as it is majestic.

"We want to surprise, inspire, and excite. This is a true Maybach for the ultimate in open-air-motoring enjoyment." Alexandra Boavida Mercedes-Benz South Africa

Pricing: R5 092 000 (incl vat, ex CO2) and 5 year / 100 000km service and maintenance plan

Bucket Tech: Samsung Unveils Galaxy A57 5G and Galaxy A37 5G

Samsung Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. has announced the new Galaxy A57 5G and Galaxy A37 5G, the latest Galaxy A series devices that bring Samsung’s newest mobile innovations  including enriched Awesome Intelligence to more users worldwide. The latest Galaxy A series reflects Samsung’s commitment to expanding AI (artificial intelligence) capabilities across more devices and empowering more users to harness the power of intuitive AI that simplifies everyday tasks. Galaxy A57 5G and Galaxy A37 5G strengthen the experiences users rely on every day with upgrades to performance, camera and display, alongside durability and security features. With up to six generations of OS upgrades and security support, the new Galaxy A series is built with longevity in mind. Leading the lineup is Galaxy A57 5G, featuring a slimmer, more refined design and upgraded AI-powered capabilities that make it the most powerful Galaxy A series device yet.

“The new Galaxy A series reflects our continued commitment to AI democratisation by bringing the latest innovations to more Galaxy users,” said, Chief Executive Officer, President, and Head of Device eXperience (DX) Division at Samsung Electronics. “With Samsung’s fundamental capabilities combined with enriched Awesome Intelligence, Galaxy A57 5G and Galaxy A37 5G will deliver reliable everyday performance to users around the world and drive rapid AI expansion.”

 Enriched Awesome Intelligence Designed for Everyday Life

Through the latest One UI 8.5, Galaxy A57 5G and A37 5G extend Samsung’s latest AI innovations to more users, with Awesome Intelligence that helps people get more things done with ease while unlocking new ways to create and stay productive.

Voice Transcription is new to the Voice Recorder app, making it easier to revisit important details from meetings, lectures or calls by transcribing and translating call recordings or turning voicemails audio into text. AI Select is easier to access with a long press on the Edge Panel, surfacing relevant actions directly on the screen to extract text or create content without manually selecting items. AI Select also supports Drag & Drop in Multi-Window layout, allowing users to easily move images into Samsung Notes or Photo Editor for faster editing and improved productivity.

Awesome Intelligence makes everyday photo editing easier than ever. Object Eraser now delivers more natural results when removing unwanted distractions, like a passerby in the background or clutter in a café. On Galaxy A57 5G, Best Face supports more photos and continuous shooting, making it easier to capture the spectacular group photos where everyone looks their best. Fan favourite tools like Filters and Edit Suggestions help users quickly refine and share moments without extra effort, while Galaxy A57 5G also features Auto Trim for even easier video editing.

Circle to Search with Google adds multi-object recognition so users can easily explore multiple items in an image at once from an outfit to surrounding accessories  all in one search.

The new Galaxy A series expands Awesome Intelligence experiences with a choice of agents designed to simplify everyday tasks from search to organising plans or easily adjusting settings. As a conversational device agent, upgraded Bixby lets users intuitively control Galaxy settings and features using natural language, while Gemini navigates complex tasks across native Galaxy apps and select third-party apps to support faster, more intuitive interactions.

Awesome Camera to Capture Clearer Photos and Videos, Day or Night

As AI becomes more deeply integrated into mobile experiences, camera performance remains essential to delivering the everyday usability and satisfaction users expect.

Galaxy A57 5G and A37 5G deliver brighter, clearer visuals powered by the upgraded camera hardware and an improved Image Signal Processor (ISP). The devices feature a versatile triple-camera system, led by a 50MP main sensor, delivering sharp, detailed images across a wide range of lighting conditions without the need for manual adjustments.

When the lights go down, the Galaxy A57 5G and A37 5G camera adapts seamlessly with improved Nightography, making it easier to capture clear and true-to-life photos and videos even in low light conditions.

Galaxy A57 5G takes photography a step further with enhanced image processing that sharpens detail and reduces noise for even clearer, more vibrant results. It delivers rich contrast and balanced colour even in challenging light, while with a faster shutter speed, users can instantly capture fleeting moments faster and with improved clarity. 

Galaxy A57 5G and A37 5G also benefit from AI-based subject recognition and scene optimisation to balance portraits, preserve natural skin tones and create clearer background separation. When the moment calls for a wider perspective, the ultra-wide lens captures more in every group photo or landscape view, while the 5MP macro camera reveals fine details up close for added creative flexibility.

Performance for Streaming and Multitasking

Galaxy A57 5G delivers the best of both design and performance, combining upgraded CPU, GPU and NPU to deliver improved performance with its sleek and light form. Built for streaming, scrolling and content creation, its refined design features a glossy finish and distinctive triple-camera island for a standout modern look that feels comfortable in-hand.

Despite its slimmer profile, Galaxy A57 5G packs powerful performance. Its 5,000mAh battery supports up to two days of use powering everything from filming and editing to viewing on the go. Super-Fast Charging 2.0 reaches up to 60% in around 30 minutes for a quick boost before heading out, while a 13% larger vapor chamber helps sustain performance during extended gaming or recording. Slimmer bezels and a bright Super AMOLED + display with Vision Booster ensure an immersive, clear viewing experience indoors and outside.

Built for everyday use, Galaxy A57 5G and A37 5G are rated IP68 for water and dust resistance, adding durability in real-world environments and offering users peace of mind if accidents happen. 

Long-Term Support and Foundational Security

Galaxy A57 5G and A37 5G reinforce Samsung’s commitment to device longevity, offering up to six generations of Android OS and One UI upgrades, along with up to six years of security updates giving users the confidence to rely on their device for years to come.

Samsung provides a fortified layer of device safety, transparency and user choice with Knox Vault, a hardware-based, tamper-resistant security solution. Galaxy A series offers users holistic protection through innovative security and privacy features including Security & Privacy Dashboard, Auto Blocker, Private Sharing, Theft Protection as well as the new Private Album, a Gallery feature that allows users to lock away personal media quickly and easily. Unlike traditional safeguards, the latest A series devices also proactively notify users about potential risks with Privacy Alerts, which are intelligent notifications that offer clearer insight and control over location permissions or suspicious monitoring of sensitive data. Together, these enhancements make security feel as intuitive as the rest of the experience, making device protection easier than ever for everyone.

Availability

Galaxy A57 5G and A37 5G will be available in South Africa. The Galaxy A57 5G will be offered in Awesome Navy, Awesome Gray, while Galaxy A37 5G comes in Awesome Lavender, Awesome Gray and Awesome Dark Green For added peace of mind, Samsung Care+ offers comprehensive coverage optimised to users' device needs, including tailored benefits that protect your value in the device.

The Galaxy A57 is priced from R11,999, and the Galaxy A37 starts from R8,699. Buy your new Galaxy A series on pre-paid from Samsung stores, Incredible Connection or on Takealot, and add a Galaxy Fit3 and save R699 or add a Galaxy Buds Core and save R799..

For more information on Galaxy A57 5G and Galaxy A37 5G, please visit: Samsung Newsroom, SamsungMobilePress.com or Samsung.com.

Monday Choon: Armin van Buuren & Andrew Bayer - Serendipity

 

There's nothing better than starting off the week with some trance music and who better than the king of trance Armin van Buuren who teams up with Andrew Bayer for our featured track of the week. "Serendipity" is a collaborative melodic trance single produced by Dutch trance icon Armin van Buuren and American producer Andrew Bayer, officially released on 7 May 2026. The track was highly anticipated by electronic dance music fans after being teased heavily as an unreleased festival ID. It serves as a prominent focal point for the A State of Trance 2026 compilation album.

Bucket Seat: Suzuki Grand Vitara GLX

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

DESIGN

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

PERFORMANCE

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

COMFORT

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

TECHNOLOGY

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

VERDICT

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

SPECIFICATIONS

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