Google Tag

Friday, June 19, 2026

Bucket Seat: Renault Kiger 1.0L Turbo Iconic CVT


Renault's Kiger recently got an additional engine to it's line up, a 1.0L Turbo Petrol engine that gives the car more life. It's something that in my opinion the car needed as it's a decent affordable offering from the French manufacturer but the 1.5L naturally aspirated motor seemed a bit flat when I drove it earlier this year. The Kiger Turbo doesn't just stop at the engine upgrade but the interior has also been given some upgrades with the likes of ventilated front seats, combination of leathers and coloured stitching to name a few. I spent a week with the Kiger Turbo and here are my thoughts.


 DESIGN

The Renault Kiger has always been one of the more distinctive compact SUVs in the South African market, and the 2026 Turbo model continues to build on that formula. While the overall shape remains familiar, the Kiger still manages to stand out with its bold front-end styling, muscular wheel arches and raised ride height that gives it genuine SUV appeal. The front grille and lighting signature give the vehicle a modern appearance, while the sporty stance adds a touch of character that many rivals in this segment often lack. Inside, Renault has made noticeable improvements to the cabin. One of the biggest highlights is the upgraded interior quality. The materials used throughout the cabin feel more premium than before, helping the Kiger move a step closer to more expensive competitors. The different textures used on the seats add a welcome sense of sophistication and break away from the plain finishes commonly found in this segment. The result is a cabin that feels more inviting and modern, while still maintaining the practicality that buyers in this class expect.


PERFORMANCE

The biggest improvement to the 2026 Renault Kiger comes from its turbocharged engine. Compared to the naturally aspirated alternative, the turbo unit delivers noticeably better performance, making the vehicle feel far more responsive in everyday driving conditions. Whether pulling away from traffic lights, overtaking on the highway or climbing inclines, the extra power and torque provide a more confident driving experience. The turbocharged engine feels well suited to South African driving conditions, particularly for motorists who frequently travel on open roads where overtaking performance is important. Despite the improved performance, the engine remains relatively efficient, striking a good balance between fuel economy and power. The Kiger may not be the quickest vehicle in the segment, but it offers enough punch to make daily driving enjoyable without sacrificing affordability.


COMFORT

Comfort has also seen meaningful improvements. The upgraded seat materials not only enhance the overall look of the cabin but also contribute to a more pleasant driving experience. The seats provide adequate support for both short city commutes and longer journeys, while the elevated seating position gives drivers excellent visibility of the road ahead. Technology is another area where the Kiger impresses. The addition of wireless smartphone connectivity is a feature that many South African buyers will appreciate. Being able to connect a smartphone without cables adds convenience to everyday use and helps keep the cabin free from clutter. The infotainment system is intuitive to operate, while the spacious cabin and practical luggage area ensure that the Kiger remains a strong family-friendly option. Road and wind noise are reasonably controlled for a vehicle in this price category, and the suspension does a commendable job of absorbing imperfections commonly found on South African roads. This results in a comfortable and relaxed driving experience for both driver and passengers.



VERDICT

The 2026 Renault Kiger Turbo represents a meaningful step forward for Renault's compact SUV. The improved turbocharged engine brings a welcome boost in performance, the upgraded interior materials create a more premium feel, and the addition of wireless phone connectivity adds a level of convenience that modern buyers expect. For South African consumers looking for an affordable compact SUV that offers attractive styling, practical space, improved refinement and enjoyable performance, the Kiger Turbo makes a compelling case for itself. While competition in this segment remains fierce, Renault has addressed some of the key areas that needed improvement, resulting in a vehicle that feels more complete than ever before. Overall, the 2026 Renault Kiger Turbo is a well-rounded package that combines value, practicality and modern features, making it one of the more appealing options for buyers seeking a compact SUV without stretching their budget.


SPECIFICATIONS

Engine
1.0-liter Turbo
Gear Box                 
X-tronic CVT
Power
74kW
Torque
160Nm
Fuel Economy        
6.0L per 100km
Price
R329,999



Wednesday, June 17, 2026

Bucket Tech: Samsung Galaxy A Series offers 24/7 SOS+


Samsung South Africa is putting safety and peace of mind directly into customers’ hands with the launch of Samsung SOS+* campaign, running from 18 May to 30 June 2026. Customers who purchase the new Samsung Galaxy A57 5G or Galaxy A37 5G during the promotional period will qualify for 12 months of free access to Samsung SOS+, an on-demand emergency response subscription provided by AURA.

Designed for those navigating busy lifestyles, late-night commutes, family responsibilities, travel, and unexpected emergencies, Samsung SOS+* transforms the smartphone into more than just a communication device. It becomes a personal safety companion that is always within reach.

In an emergency situation, Samsung SOS+* immediately geolocates the user and dispatches traceable private security and medical emergency services in real time. Available 24/7 across South Africa, the service gives users direct access to rapid support when every second matters.

To activate the offer, customers simply need to purchase a Galaxy A57 5G or Galaxy A37 5G device, redeem the offer via Samsung Members app, register, and enjoy a full year of emergency assistance at no additional cost. Customers will have until 31 July 2026 to redeem the offer through Samsung Members.

Samsung SOS+* is provided by AURA, South Africa’s leading emergency response platform. Since 2017, AURA has focused on transforming emergency response through technology, connecting users to real-time, efficient medical and armed response services. The partnership combines Samsung’s trusted mobile innovation with AURA’s advanced emergency response capabilities to create an integrated safety solution that fits naturally into modern life.

The campaign reinforces Samsung’s commitment to making meaningful innovation more accessible, bringing premium experiences and practical everyday solutions to more consumers through the Galaxy A Series.

“Smartphones have become central to how we live, work, connect, and move through the world. With Samsung SOS+*, we are extending that experience even further by offering our customers an added layer of safety and reassurance. The new Galaxy A57 5G and Galaxy A37 5G are designed to deliver powerful everyday experiences, and through this partnership with AURA, they now also provide immediate access to trusted emergency support when it matters most,” says Rae Hargreaves, Head of Marketing: Mobile eXperience at Samsung South Africa.

Whether users are travelling alone, waiting for a ride, managing school runs, or simply wanting greater peace of mind for themselves or their loved ones, Samsung SOS+* offers reassurance in the palm of their hand.

The latest Galaxy A Series devices continue to deliver popular Galaxy experiences including advanced camera capabilities, intelligent AI (artificial intelligence)-powered tools, long-lasting performance, and enhanced connectivity. With the addition of

  1. To activate, you must install the Samsung Members app, find the SOS+ banner, and register on the linked AURA platform to complete the process. After registration, it's recommended to also download the separate Samsung SOS+ app and save the toll-free number for full access to the emergency response service. 
  2. Terms and Conditions Apply. Offer has to be redeemed by 31 July 2026.
  3. AURA has partnered with the best private security & medical companies across South Africa to ensure that you have help wherever you may be. AURA has a live coverage map to see specifically where the services cover you based on your location. AURA currently covers all population centres including all major cities, towns and even certain informal settlements

Tuesday, June 16, 2026

Monday Choon: XIRA - Feel (J Ribbon Remix)

 


The unmistakable voice of XIRA encapsulated me when I first heard her on 3LAU's hit track "Tokyo", she returns to the blog with a track of her own titled "Feel" and its everything that you'd expect and more. The track has been remixed by J Ribbon and is featured on the Anjunabeats Volume 17. A song that hits your heart right away, a feel good track with a catchy beat and chorus and one that will have you press repeat over and over again. 


Saturday, June 13, 2026

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



Wednesday, June 10, 2026

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.

Sunday, June 7, 2026

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. 


Friday, June 5, 2026

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



Wednesday, May 27, 2026

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 cafĂ©, 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, May 25, 2026

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. 


Saturday, May 23, 2026

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