Bucket Seat: The new Audi Q3

Yesterday I attended the launch of the 3rd generation Audi Q3, this mid-sized SUV has been a market favourite for many over the years and I was looking forward to seeing what the latest iteration of it had to offer. The launch taking place at the picturesque Cavalli Estate in Stellenbosch, set the scene of what we could expect in the new Q3. Previous generations offered a fun and funky feel to the SUV but with the 3rd generation it looks and feels more mature with bolder lines, larger body and modern design. The car is an important one for the brand as it ushers in the latest form of their SUV design language that we have already seen it translated into the designs of the new Q5 and Q7 which were showcased internationally. 

The Q3 launches in two variants, the SUV and the Sportback, both designs are similar with the Sportback having a more sleeker and sloped roof line to mimic a coupe styling. The entire design has been revamped, the front see's a new take on the famous Audi Matrix LED lighting with the day time running LED's having their own cluster and the headlights being house below them. The LED design has been enhanced and now has a projection feature on that gives you signs on the road if you are veering off the lane, warns you of snow and icy conditions and lights up the lane next to you when the indicator is activated. The profile of the car looks more bulky than the previous model with the wheel arches gaining some width to enhance that SUV look. The SUV has has two clear and distinct lines which flow from the bonnet and headlamps respectively which the Sportback has just one because of the sloped roof line. The rear end looks sublime and probably my favourite view of the Q3 with that split light design coming in again and a solid LED bar that runs across the rear. The indicator is integrated into this. With the Matrix LED system you also get an illuminated Audi logo on the rear which looks really cool. 

The interior of the Q3 looks amazing and very similar to that of the A5 we had on test last year. The curved type dash which houses the virtual cockpit and the large infotainment unit. They have done away with the gear shift and like many other manufacturers put this as a stalk behind the steering wheel on the left side, thus leaving more room for storage in the center console. The wireless charging tray has been made bigger thanks to this. The interior lighting has some cool enhancements too, with lighting now available on the door panels and they all integrate with the cars lighting, so for example if you put the hazard lights on, they will animate on the inside as well. The infotainment user interface is really simple to use and phone connectivity made really simple with wireless mobile phone app integration for Car Play and Android Auto. The materials and textures can be suited to your taste, having only driven the S Line trims with both leather and cloth options, both were equally great and comfy, my only gripe is that on the base model you still getting manual seat adjusters. 

On the road, both the petrol and diesel offer great power to the car, the diesel obviously feeling a bit more eager thanks to the torque levels. The car feels solid and capable on the open road with the car being able to speed up smoothly as it shifts through the 7 gears on the S tronic automatic gearbox. The large wheels also make a big difference, combined with the new suspension with dual valve chambers for those pesky potholes makes the ride ultra smooth. The turbo petrol engine delivers 110kW and 250Nm of torque with the turbo diesel producing 110kW with 360Nm of torque. There are planning on introducing a 142kW version of the diesel engine later on. Talks of a performance model were played down as Audi SA are stil unsure but we might see a SQ3 model instead of the RSQ3.

Pricing for the new Q3 is as follows:

All models are sold with a standard 5-year/100,000 km Audi Freeway Plan.

Bucket Tech: New Galaxy A57 and A37 offering Flagship Innovation

Samsung is bringing intelligent innovation and premium mobile experiences to more users with the recently launched Galaxy A57 5G and Galaxy A37 5G. As smartphones become increasingly central to how people create, connect, work and play, Samsung continues to make meaningful innovation more accessible, delivering powerful performance and advanced camera experiences. Samsung is continuing its mission to democratise innovation by bringing some of the most-loved Galaxy S series experiences to more people.

The new Galaxy A series devices are designed for people who want smarter, more intuitive mobile experiences without stepping into ultra-premium price territory. Whether it is managing busy schedules, creating social content, staying organised, or protecting personal memories, the Galaxy A57 and A37 make advanced mobile technology feel accessible, useful, and seamlessly woven into everyday life.

At the heart of this shift is Samsung’s approach to making flagship  features part of the mainstream smartphone experience.

Imagine sitting in a lecture, a brainstorming session, or a family meeting where ideas are flying across the room faster than fingers can type. With Voice Transcription, users can record conversations and convert speech into text in real time, helping students capture notes effortlessly, young professionals keep track of meetings, or content creators quickly turn ideas into captions and scripts. It transforms the smartphone into a practical productivity companion that works quietly in the background while life moves at full speed.

Photography and content creation have also become more intuitive with Object Eraser. Everyday moments are rarely picture-perfect on the first try. A stranger photobombing an exquisite sunset photo, an unwanted sign in a travel snap, or clutter distracting from a carefully styled outfit can all be removed with a few taps. What once required advanced editing apps or desktop software can now happen directly on-device, giving users the freedom to create cleaner, more polished content instantly.

Then there is Circle to Search with Google, a feature that feels almost futuristic in its simplicity. Users can simply circle an object, phrase, or image on their screen to instantly learn more about it without switching between apps. Spot a pair of sneakers you like on social media? Circle them to search. Watching a recipe video and curious about an ingredient? Circle it. It reduces the space between curiosity and discovery, making information feel more immediate and naturally integrated into how people already use their phones.

Samsung has also introduced upgraded Bixby into the Galaxy A series experience, creating a more conversational and intelligent way to interact with your device. Instead of navigating endless menus, users can simply ask Bixby to set reminders, search for photos, manage schedules, or help control connected devices. In busy households, during commutes, or while multitasking through a packed day, it becomes a digital assistant that simplifies small but meaningful daily interactions.

Privacy, too, is becoming increasingly important in a world where smartphones carry deeply personal memories and sensitive information. Private Album offers users an added layer of security for photos and videos they want to keep separate from their main gallery. Whether it is important documents, family moments, creative projects, or personal memories, users have more control over what stays visible and what stays private.

What makes the Galaxy A57 and A37 particularly significant is not just the inclusion of these features, but what they represent. Samsung is narrowing the gap between flagship and mid-range experiences, ensuring that more users can enjoy intelligent, AI-powered mobile technology regardless of budget.

For many consumers, smartphones are now long-term lifestyle investments. People want devices that can keep pace with work, entertainment, creativity, and communication without compromise. By introducing premium-inspired functionality into the Galaxy A series, Samsung is reshaping expectations around what accessible smartphones should be capable of delivering.

The result is a mobile experience that feels smarter, more personal, and more empowering. One where innovation is no longer reserved for a select few, but designed to fit naturally into the lives of everyday users across South Africa.

Monday Choon: Darren Tate - A Child Of The Times

 

British producer, DJ and multi-instrumentalist Darren Tate returns to Anjunabeats with his latest single, A Child Of The Times, following its debut on Anjunabeats Volume 25. Known for a career spanning multiple successful aliases, twelve UK Top 40 singles and over 20 film scores, Tate continues to push the boundaries of trance music. The track carries a powerful message of optimism for future generations, inspired by trance music's ability to unite and uplift listeners. Featuring vocal elements influenced by African and Eastern spiritual chants, Tate explains that the song is designed to create a shared sense of connection, positivity and emotional release. A Child Of The Times is available now on Anjunabeats.

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

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

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. 

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