Bucket Seat: Geely E2 Apex

Electric vehicles have always been a difficult sell in South Africa. Between concerns over driving range, limited public charging infrastructure and premium pricing, many motorists have remained hesitant to make the switch. But after spending time with the new Geely E2 Apex, I genuinely believe this is one of the first electric cars that removes many of those barriers. It offers a compelling combination of affordability, practicality and everyday usability, making it an excellent entry point for anyone curious about starting their EV journey. I drove the range-topping Apex derivative, which naturally comes loaded with features, but what impressed me even more is that the entry-level Aspire model doesn't feel stripped back either. Geely has managed to create a package that delivers exceptional value regardless of which model you choose.

DESIGN

The Geely E2 is one of those cars that immediately grows on you. It has a playful, youthful personality with smooth flowing lines and rounded body panels that give it a modern, approachable appearance. There's no denying that it carries a hint of Tesla-inspired styling, particularly in its clean, minimalist design language, but it still has enough character to stand on its own. Its compact proportions make it perfectly suited to urban environments, while the aerodynamic silhouette gives the little hatchback a surprisingly premium presence on the road. It's a design that feels contemporary without trying too hard, and it's likely to appeal to younger buyers as well as families looking for an economical second vehicle. Inside, the cabin follows the familiar recipe we've come to expect from many modern Chinese manufacturers. A large central infotainment display dominates the dashboard, while a compact digital instrument cluster provides the essential driving information. The overall layout is clean and uncluttered, creating an airy cabin that feels more spacious than the car's exterior dimensions would suggest.

PERFORMANCE

The Geely E2 isn't designed to be a performance EV, but that's not what it's trying to achieve. Instead, it focuses on delivering smooth, effortless electric motoring that perfectly suits daily commuting. With a claimed driving range of 325km on a full charge, the E2 offers more than enough range for the average South African motorist. For many people, that's easily enough to cover an entire week's commute without needing to plug in every evening. That alone goes a long way towards easing the range anxiety that still discourages many potential EV buyers. Charging is equally straightforward. Every E2 comes with a home wallbox charger included in the purchase price, making overnight charging convenient for owners with dedicated parking. I also charged the vehicle using a standard three-pin household plug, which took approximately 12 hours to replenish the battery overnight. While considerably slower than a dedicated wallbox, it's reassuring to know that virtually any household can charge the vehicle without specialised infrastructure. When you're on the move, compatible DC fast chargers can recharge the battery in around 30 minutes, making longer journeys increasingly practical as South Africa's charging network continues to expand.

COMFORT & TECHNOLOGY

The E2 Apex is exceptionally well equipped and offers all the features most buyers would expect in a modern electric vehicle. The standout technology feature is undoubtedly the integrated AI voice assistant, which proved responsive and intuitive throughout my time with the car. It makes interacting with many of the vehicle's functions quick and effortless without constantly reaching for the touchscreen. One quirky feature I particularly enjoyed was the musical chime that plays whenever the vehicle is locked. It adds a bit of personality to the ownership experience and, for those who prefer a quieter approach, the sound can easily be changed or disabled altogether. There were, however, a couple of frustrations. The smartphone connectivity requires a wired connection, with no support for wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Considering how many competitors are now moving towards wireless integration, this feels like a missed opportunity and slightly detracts from an otherwise modern cabin experience. That said, overall comfort levels are excellent for a vehicle in this segment. The cabin feels well assembled, visibility is good and the driving experience is relaxed and refined, making the E2 an enjoyable companion for everyday use.

VERDICT

The Geely E2 may well be one of the most convincing electric vehicles currently available for South African buyers. It successfully addresses many of the concerns that have traditionally kept motorists away from EV ownership by combining an attractive purchase price with practical range, simple charging solutions and generous levels of equipment. More importantly, it doesn't feel like a compromise. It's stylish, comfortable, easy to live with and genuinely enjoyable to drive. For first-time EV buyers, it's exactly the sort of vehicle that builds confidence and demonstrates just how straightforward electric motoring can be. With strong value for money and a well-rounded ownership proposition, the Geely E2 currently stands out as one of the best options in its class. Against rivals such as the BYD Dolphin Surf and the Dongfeng Box, Geely has delivered a product that feels polished, practical and ready for the South African market. If you're considering making the jump to electric motoring, this is undoubtedly one of the smartest places to start.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	Permanent magnet synchronous motor
Gear Box	Single gear
Power	85kW
Torque	150Nm
Range	325km
Price	R389,000

 

 

Bucket Tech: HUAWEI nova 15 Max

South Africans have become experts at doing mental maths. Every trip to the petrol station comes with a moment of disbelief. The grocery bill somehow climbs higher despite the trolley looking suspiciously similar to last month's. Electricity, insurance, school fees, data, subscriptions. It often feels as though the cost of simply getting through the month keeps finding new ways to increase.

As South Africans become more selective about their technology purchases, devices such as the HUAWEI nova 15 Max are helping to redefine what value in a smartphone really means. Starting at R7 999, the smartphone combines an 8500mAh battery, durable construction, advanced photography features and a HUAWEI Added Value Pack worth up to R7 596, challenging the assumption that consumers need to spend more to get more from their devices.

As a result, consumers are becoming increasingly selective about where they spend their money. They're asking tougher questions, comparing options more carefully and looking beyond flashy marketing promises to understand what they're really getting for their hard-earned rand. Smartphones are no exception.

The era of paying more for less

Over the past few years, smartphone prices have steadily climbed. Rising component costs, larger memory configurations and increasingly sophisticated technology have all contributed to pushing prices upwards.Yet for many consumers, the experience hasn't always improved at the same pace. Nobody buys a smartphone because it has a particular chip or memory specification. They buy it because they want a device that lasts all day, takes great photos, survives everyday life and helps them stay connected.The challenge for manufacturers is finding ways to deliver those experiences without forcing consumers into premium price brackets.

The features people actually care about

Ask most smartphone users what frustrates them and the answers are surprisingly consistent. Battery life runs out too quickly. Phones are expensive to repair after a drop. Cameras perform brilliantly in perfect lighting but struggle when life happens after sunset. Screens can be difficult to see outdoors. These aren't glamorous problems, but they are the problems people experience every day. That's why practical innovation is becoming increasingly important. Rather than chasing specifications for their own sake, many consumers are prioritising features that make a noticeable difference to their daily lives.

Why battery life has become a value feature

As smartphones have become our cameras, GPS devices, entertainment hubs and communication centres, battery performance has become more important than ever. A larger battery doesn't just mean longer usage. It means fewer charging stops, less reliance on power banks, and more confidence when travelling, working remotely, or spending long days away from home.

The HUAWEI nova 15 Max is a good example of this. Equipped with an 8500mAh HUAWEI Super Battery, it is designed to keep pace with modern lifestyles. Real-world testing shows it can support up to 23 hours of continuous video playback, while reverse charging allows the device to share power with compatible Huawei products when needed.

Getting more without spending more

The conversation around smartphone value is increasingly moving beyond price alone. Consumers still want excellent cameras, durable construction and immersive entertainment experiences. They simply want those features delivered in a way that feels accessible.

The HUAWEI nova 15 Max reflects that changing mindset. Its 50MP Ultra Vision Camera uses Huawei's advanced RYYB colour filter array to improve light intake by 40%, helping users capture brighter and more detailed images even in challenging lighting conditions. AI Best Expression helps refine group photos, while the Extra-durable Body combines SGS Premium Performance Mark 5-Star Drop Resistance certification with IP65 dust and water resistance.

The device also features a 6.84-inch OLED Eye Comfort Display with up to 4000 nits of dynamic peak brightness, making it easier to enjoy content indoors and outdoors alike.

These are the kinds of features that directly influence everyday ownership rather than simply looking impressive on a specification sheet.

Value isn't just about the price tag

South Africans have become skilled at spotting the difference between something that is expensive and something that is valuable. Those are not always the same thing. The HUAWEI nova 15 Max arrives at a time when many consumers are actively reconsidering what value means.

Starting at R7 999, the HUAWEI nova 15 Max combines one of the largest batteries in its category, advanced photography capabilities, durable construction and immersive entertainment features in a package designed around real-world use.

Customers also receive a HUAWEI Added Value Pack worth up to R7 596, including Unlimited Screen Damage Protection and HUAWEI FreeBuds SE valued at R1 499 at selected retailers.

Monday Choon: Martin Garrix & U2 - Fireflies

 

Martin Garrix's "Fireflies" with U2 is a collaboration that feels both natural and refreshing, blending Garrix's cinematic electronic production with U2's unmistakable stadium-rock identity. Bono's soaring vocals and The Edge's signature guitar work are perfectly complemented by Garrix's polished, atmospheric sound, creating a track that is both emotionally uplifting and festival-ready. Rather than competing for the spotlight, the two artists build on each other's strengths, resulting in a powerful anthem that showcases the remarkable synergy between one of dance music's biggest producers and one of rock's most iconic bands.

Bucket Seat: Volvo ES90

There are some cars that leave an impression the moment you lay eyes on them, and then there are those that continue to impress long after you've handed back the keys. The new Volvo ES90 certainly falls into the latter category. I recently spent a few days with Volvo's latest all-electric luxury sedan in Cape Town, where it became my companion for a mixture of business appointments and leisurely drives through the city and surrounding roads. Those few days gave me the perfect opportunity to experience exactly what the ES90 is designed to do deliver effortless luxury, exceptional refinement and the kind of relaxed driving experience that only a premium electric vehicle can offer. While the ES90 represents Volvo's latest technological leap, it hasn't forgotten the Swedish values that have made the brand one of the most respected luxury manufacturers in the world.

DESIGN

Colvo has always mastered the art of understated elegance, and the ES90 is perhaps one of the finest examples of that philosophy. There's an unmistakable Swedish influence throughout the entire vehicle, where simplicity isn't a lack of design but rather a celebration of it. Every line has purpose, every surface feels deliberate and there isn't a single unnecessary styling element to distract from its overall presence. What immediately caught my attention was the Sportback-inspired rear design. For a sedan of this size, it is a masterstroke. Instead of the traditional three-box silhouette, the sweeping roofline flows effortlessly into the rear, creating a seamless profile that looks both sophisticated and surprisingly athletic. It gives the ES90 a dynamic character that many large executive sedans struggle to achieve while also improving practicality with a much larger rear loading area. The front remains unmistakably Volvo, with its familiar Thor's Hammer LED lighting signature and clean, minimalist fascia, while the rear lighting design complements the modern aesthetic beautifully. It's a vehicle that turns heads not because it shouts for attention, but because its confidence comes from restraint. The same philosophy continues inside. The cabin is wonderfully uncluttered, with premium materials, clean surfaces and an interface that never overwhelms the driver. It feels calm, luxurious and incredibly inviting. Volvo has created an interior where everything simply feels like it's in the right place, making every journey a genuinely relaxing experience.

PERFORMANCE

The ES90 Single Motor may be the entry point into the range, but there is nothing entry-level about the way it performs. Electric vehicles have become synonymous with instant acceleration, and the Volvo delivers exactly that with smooth, effortless power whenever you ask for it. Whether pulling away from traffic lights, overtaking on the open road or merging onto the highway, the responsiveness of the single motor drivetrain is immediate and confidence inspiring. What impressed me most was how naturally the different driving modes adapted to varying driving styles. Whether I was navigating Cape Town's busy urban traffic during work commitments or enjoying a more spirited drive along the coast, the ES90 adjusted its character accordingly. The steering weight, throttle response and overall driving feel changed subtly enough to enhance the experience without ever feeling artificial. Battery range is often one of the first questions prospective EV buyers ask, and the ES90 answers that concern convincingly. The generous battery capacity provides more than enough range for everyday commuting while comfortably accommodating semi-long-distance trips between major cities or weekend getaways. More importantly, it gives the driver genuine peace of mind. Rather than constantly monitoring the remaining battery percentage, you simply drive the car as you would any premium luxury sedan, which is perhaps the biggest compliment one can pay a modern electric vehicle. Volvo has done an excellent job of reducing the range anxiety that still prevents many motorists from making the transition to electric mobility.

COMFORT

If there is one area where the ES90 truly excels, it is comfort. From the moment you settle into the beautifully sculpted seats, it becomes immediately apparent that Volvo's reputation for producing some of the most comfortable seats in the automotive industry remains well deserved. Long hours behind the wheel never became tiring, with excellent support and an ergonomically designed driving position making every journey feel effortless. Luxury extends to every passenger as well. The inclusion of four-zone climate control means each occupant can personalise their own temperature settings, while both the front and rear seats benefit from heating and ventilation. It's a level of attention to passenger comfort that transforms every journey into a first-class travel experience, regardless of where you're seated. One of the standout features is undoubtedly the exceptional Bowers & Wilkins premium audio system. Whether listening to classical music, jazz, rock, electronic dance music or podcasts, the system adapts beautifully to every genre. The clarity, depth and balance are simply outstanding, creating a concert-like atmosphere inside the cabin without ever becoming overpowering. Adding to the feeling of spaciousness is the impressive photoelectric panoramic sunroof. With the touch of a button, occupants can choose exactly how much daylight they want to let into the cabin, creating either a bright, airy environment or a more private atmosphere depending on the conditions outside. It's a clever piece of technology that perfectly complements the minimalist interior. Ride quality is equally impressive. Volvo has clearly prioritised refinement, and the result is a suspension setup that glides over imperfections with remarkable composure. Whether driving on smooth highways or less-than-perfect city streets, the ES90 isolates occupants from the outside world exceptionally well. The suspension remains wonderfully soft without feeling floaty, maintaining excellent body control while delivering the kind of comfort expected from a luxury flagship.

VERDICT

The Volvo ES90 represents everything a modern premium electric sedan should be. It combines elegant Scandinavian design, impressive technology, outstanding comfort and effortless electric performance into a package that feels genuinely sophisticated rather than unnecessarily complicated. It doesn't rely on gimmicks or flashy styling to stand out. Instead, it focuses on delivering a refined ownership experience that will appeal to buyers who appreciate quality, craftsmanship and understated luxury. With South African pricing expected to start at around R1.65 million for the Single Motor variant, the ES90 firmly positions itself in the premium luxury EV segment. While it undoubtedly commands a significant investment, buyers are rewarded with a vehicle that offers cutting-edge safety technology, exceptional comfort, generous equipment levels and a driving experience that feels uniquely relaxing. For executives, business professionals and premium customers looking to embrace electric mobility without sacrificing luxury, the Volvo ES90 makes a compelling case for itself. It's not simply another electric sedan it is a beautifully executed Scandinavian luxury car that just happens to be powered by electricity.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	Single Electric motor 800V
Gear Box	Single gear system with driving modes
Power	245kW
Torque	480Nm
Range	755km
Price	R1,590,000*

*base model

 

 

Bucket Tech: Samsung Galaxy Unpacked Fold Edition

Samsung returned to London yesterday for its second Galaxy Unpacked event of the year, using the historic Old Billingsgate venue to unveil what is arguably the company's biggest evolution of foldable smartphones since the original Galaxy Fold. Rather than simply refining an existing formula, Samsung has expanded its premium foldable lineup with two book-style devices – the Galaxy Z Fold8 and the all-new Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra  alongside the Galaxy Z Flip8, Galaxy Watch9, Galaxy Watch Ultra2 and its first AI-powered smart glasses. While there were plenty of announcements throughout the keynote, it was the Fold8 range that stole the show, signalling Samsung's intention to make foldable phones a genuine replacement for both smartphones and tablets.

Galaxy Z Fold8: Refining the Formula

The standard Galaxy Z Fold8 builds on everything Samsung learnt from previous generations while making the device noticeably more practical for everyday use. One of the biggest design changes is its wider, more conventional outer display with a 4:3-inspired aspect ratio. This makes the phone feel much closer to using a traditional flagship smartphone when folded, addressing one of the biggest criticisms of earlier Fold models. Opening the device reveals Samsung's familiar large tablet-like display, but the experience has been improved through a redesigned hinge and the introduction of the company's new Flex Titanium display structure. Samsung claims the new internal construction significantly reduces the visibility of the crease while improving overall durability and rigidity.

Performance comes courtesy of Qualcomm's latest Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, paired with faster memory and improved thermal management. As expected, Galaxy AI sits at the centre of the software experience, with Samsung integrating AI into virtually every aspect of the phone. Real-time translation, intelligent note summarisation, enhanced photo editing, context-aware multitasking and more advanced on-device AI all feature heavily throughout One UI. The larger internal display also allows AI features to operate in multiple windows simultaneously, making productivity one of the Fold8's strongest selling points. Samsung has also continued refining its multitasking software. Running three applications side-by-side feels more natural than ever, while improved drag-and-drop functionality and smarter app continuity make the Fold8 a genuine productivity device rather than simply a novelty.

Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra: Samsung's Ultimate Foldable

The biggest surprise of the event was undoubtedly the introduction of the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra. Rather than replacing the standard Fold8, Samsung has positioned it above the existing model as the company's most premium smartphone ever produced. Immediately noticeable is just how thin the device has become. Measuring only 4.1mm when unfolded and weighing approximately 215g, Samsung says this is its thinnest and lightest Fold to date despite housing a larger 8-inch internal display. The Ultra differentiates itself through premium hardware across the board. The headline feature is a 200MP main camera, bringing Ultra-level imaging performance to Samsung's foldable lineup for the first time. Combined with AI-assisted photography and improved computational imaging, Samsung is clearly targeting creators who previously had to choose between the Galaxy S Ultra series and the Fold lineup.

Like the standard Fold8, the Ultra features the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, but Samsung has also incorporated a new silicon-carbon battery technology designed to improve battery density without increasing the device's thickness. The Flex Titanium display structure returns here too, offering improved durability and an even less noticeable crease than previous Fold generations. Galaxy AI has been expanded specifically for the Ultra's larger display, introducing more intelligent multitasking, contextual productivity features and an enhanced FlexWindow experience that surfaces useful information before the device is even unfolded. Samsung's vision is clear: the Fold8 Ultra is intended to replace both a premium smartphone and a compact productivity tablet.

Galaxy Flip8

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip8 builds on Samsung's successful foldable formula with a slimmer, more refined design, making it even more practical for everyday use. It features a larger and more capable FlexWindow cover display, allowing users to reply to messages, control apps and even use advanced Galaxy AI features without opening the phone. Inside, the 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED display delivers vibrant colours and smooth performance, while the latest Snapdragon chipset ensures fast, efficient operation. Combined with improved durability, enhanced cameras and a bigger battery, the Galaxy Z Flip8 is a stylish foldable that blends flagship performance with the convenience of a compact pocket-friendly design.

Galaxy AI Takes Centre Stage

If there was one message repeated throughout the keynote, it was that hardware alone is no longer enough. Samsung's entire presentation revolved around Galaxy AI becoming a proactive digital assistant rather than simply a collection of individual features. Live translation, intelligent writing assistance, AI photo editing, summarisation, contextual recommendations and productivity tools have all been further refined, while the larger displays of the Fold8 range allow AI to operate across multiple applications simultaneously. Samsung also demonstrated how AI integrates more naturally into multitasking, making the Fold8 series feel less like oversized smartphones and more like portable workstations.

Beyond the Fold

Although the Fold8 range dominated proceedings, Samsung also unveiled the Galaxy Z Flip8, aimed at users wanting a more compact foldable, together with the Galaxy Watch9, Galaxy Watch Ultra2 and its first AI-powered smart glasses, highlighting the company's growing connected ecosystem.

South African Pricing and Availability

Samsung South Africa has confirmed that pre-orders open immediately following the global announcement.

South African pricing:

Galaxy Z Fold8 (256GB): R39,999

Galaxy Z Fold8 (512GB): R42,999

Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra (512GB): R54,999

Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra (1TB): R59,999

Pre-orders run from 22 July until 13 August 2026, with general retail availability beginning on 14 August 2026 through Samsung South Africa and participating network operators and retailers. As with previous launches, customers who pre-order can expect promotional offers such as storage upgrades, trade-in bonuses and selected Galaxy ecosystem bundles, although these may vary by retailer.

Monday Choon: Tiësto, Caleb Arredondo - Echo Sax Finale

 

Tiësto's latest release, "Echo Sax Finale," sees the Dutch dance music legend collaborate with saxophonist Caleb Arredondo, transforming the viral melody from Arredondo's Echo Sax series into a powerful, cinematic trance anthem. Rather than relying on vocals, the track tells its story through soaring synths, emotive saxophone melodies and euphoric drops, creating a nostalgic yet modern soundscape. More importantly, Echo Sax Finale perfectly captures Tiësto's long-awaited return to his trance roots, blending the uplifting emotion and energy that made him the "King of Trance" with contemporary festival production, reminding longtime fans why his early music remains so influential today.

Bucket Seat: Changan UNI-S

The Changan UNI-S enters one of South Africa's most fiercely contested SUV segments with plenty to prove. Chinese manufacturers have raised the benchmark significantly over the past few years, and consumers are no longer buying these vehicles purely because they're affordable. They're buying them because they offer impressive technology, bold styling and a level of refinement that often rivals established brands. The UNI-S is another example of just how quickly Chinese manufacturers are evolving, but more importantly, it shows that Changan is prepared to take its own design direction rather than simply following the crowd.

DESIGN

The first thing that struck me about the Changan UNI-S was just how different it looks compared to what many of the other Chinese manufacturers are currently offering. While most brands have gravitated towards sleek, minimalist styling, Changan has gone in a much bolder direction, and I think it works remarkably well. The front end is dominated by an enormous frameless grille that immediately grabs your attention and gives the SUV a distinctly American-inspired presence. It has the kind of road presence that makes it look far more expensive than its price tag would suggest. One thing I noticed almost immediately is that the UNI-S is significantly larger in person than it appears in photographs. Images simply don't do justice to its proportions. Standing next to it, you begin to appreciate its wide stance, muscular shoulders and commanding presence. It feels like a proper family SUV rather than a compact crossover trying to punch above its weight. Around the back, the full-width LED light bar is one of my favourite design elements. It gives the rear a modern, premium appearance, particularly at night when it creates a distinctive lighting signature. Combined with the sculpted tailgate and sporty roof spoiler, the rear of the vehicle looks every bit as impressive as the front. Overall, the UNI-S manages to look fresh and unique in a market where many SUVs are beginning to blend into one another.

PERFORMANCE

Under the bonnet sits a turbocharged petrol engine that many South Africans will recognise, as similar powertrains have become fairly common across several Chinese manufacturers. However, Changan seems to have done an excellent job with the calibration because the UNI-S feels noticeably more refined than many of its competitors.Power delivery is smooth and progressive, but when you ask for more acceleration, the engine responds with confidence. Whether overtaking slower traffic on the highway or pulling away from intersections, there always seems to be enough performance available without feeling strained. It doesn't necessarily produce dramatically more power than its rivals on paper, but the way it delivers that power certainly makes it feel more eager and responsive.The transmission also deserves praise. Gear changes are smoother and better timed than I've experienced in several competing Chinese SUVs. It rarely feels hesitant, and there's a noticeable refinement to the way it manages power, making everyday driving much more enjoyable. On the road, the UNI-S feels composed and well balanced. Steering is predictable, body roll is well controlled and the suspension strikes a good compromise between comfort and stability. Whether you're navigating city streets or spending long hours on the motorway, the vehicle inspires confidence and feels planted at higher speeds. It's an SUV that's easy to drive, comfortable to live with and refined enough for daily commuting.

COMFORT

Inside the cabin, it's immediately obvious that Changan has packed the UNI-S with technology. Virtually everything you'd expect from a modern SUV is here, and it certainly doesn't feel like you're missing out on features. Large digital displays, multiple driver assistance systems and intuitive controls all contribute to an upmarket driving experience. If there's one criticism I have, it's that the interior design feels very familiar. In fact, it borders on being a carbon copy of what we've already seen from several other Chinese manufacturers. While there's nothing wrong with the layout itself, it lacks the individuality and boldness that makes the exterior stand out so well. I would have liked to see Changan inject a little more of its own identity into the cabin. Thankfully, what it may lack in originality, it makes up for in comfort. The seats are supportive, well-cushioned and remain comfortable even during longer journeys. Cabin space is generous, with plenty of room for both front and rear passengers, making it a practical choice for growing families. Wireless smartphone connectivity works seamlessly, eliminating the need for cables and making everyday use that much more convenient. The infotainment system is responsive, while the sound system delivers impressive clarity and enough depth to keep music lovers satisfied. Add automatic climate control into the mix, and the UNI-S creates an environment that's both comfortable and enjoyable for daily driving.

VERDICT

The Changan UNI-S demonstrates just how far Chinese manufacturers have come, and more importantly, it shows that Changan has the potential to become a serious player in the South African market. Early owner experiences have generally highlighted the vehicle's value for money, generous specification levels and comfortable everyday driving characteristics, all of which align well with what South African buyers are increasingly looking for. What impressed me most is that the UNI-S doesn't simply compete on price. It offers genuine road presence, a refined driving experience and enough technology to satisfy buyers who want premium features without paying premium-brand prices. The exterior design stands out from the growing crowd of Chinese SUVs, while the driving dynamics feel slightly more polished than many of its direct competitors. Yes, I would have liked to see a more distinctive interior design, but that's a relatively minor criticism when you consider everything else the UNI-S gets right. For South African families wanting a spacious, well-equipped SUV that looks different, drives confidently and represents excellent overall value, the Changan UNI-S deserves to be high on the shortlist. It's another reminder that buying Chinese is no longer about compromising it's about getting more vehicle for your money than ever before.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	1.5L Turbocharged Petrol
Gear Box	7-Speed Dual Clutch
Power	138kW
Torque	300Nm
Fuel Economy	7.0L per 100km
Price	R469,900