Bucket Seat: Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet

With the new CLE Cabriolet, Mercedes-Benz is continuing its long tradition of four-seater open-top dream cars. Expressive design, intelligent technology and upmarket equipment guarantee driving pleasure at an exclusive level. This new model is based on the sporty CLE Coupé. However, the classic fabric acoustic soft top and additional high-quality details give it a character of its own. The CLE Cabriolet combines dynamic driving characteristics with a high level of everyday comfort for year-round open-air enjoyment.

Open-air fun any time of year

The AIRCAP® electric wind deflector system and the AIRSCARF® headroom heating system are standard equipment. Both systems have been further developed. They make open-top driving in cool outside temperatures more pleasant. AIRCAP® consists of two elements: the wind deflector on the windscreen directs airflow over the occupants’ heads. It extends at the touch of a button. The automatic wind deflector behind the rear head restraints reduces turbulence more efficiently. AIRSCARF® produces even warmer airflow around the necks and throats of front-seat occupants – even in unfavourable wind conditions.

The standard-fit fabric acoustic soft top also contributes to the year-round usability of the CLE Cabriolet. It is available in the colours black, red or grey. The multi-layer structure with extensive insulation provides the basis for the best thermal comfort in all seasons. It also reduces wind and driving noise. The soft top opens and closes within 20 seconds up to a road speed of 60 km/h. For the first time, it is powered exclusively by electricity, making it even quieter. The standard-fit powered roller divider automatically separates the folded soft top from the remaining luggage compartment.

Sporty luxury in a class of its own

The freestanding 12.3-inch fully digital instrument display and the 11.9-inch driver-oriented central display in portrait format are eye-catchers in the interior. The latter can be electrically tilted from 15 to 40 degrees to prevent distracting glare when the soft top is down. Another highlight is the optional dynamic ambient lighting. Bands of light sweep from the cockpit over the doors and rear side panels to behind the rear seats. This stylish wraparound feel is enhanced by two further details: the top of the dashboard, the beltlines and the soft-top stowage lid are upholstered in black man-made nappa leather effect. Added to this is the chrome trim that runs around the entire passenger compartment.

To prevent the optional leather seats from heating up too much in the summer, they have a special coating which reflects the sun’s near-infrared rays. As a result, the leather remains up to 12 degrees cooler in direct sunlight than untreated standard leather. Even with the top closed, the interior heats up less thanks to the cool seat covers. The choice of colours offered for the sun-reflecting leather and nappa leather are: black, macchiato beige/black, tonka brown/black, power red/black and white/black. The standard AVANTGARDE Line offers ARTICO/MICROCUT man-made leather in black.

The front seats developed exclusively for the CLE have an integral sports seat design. In conjunction with the optional Burmester® 3D surround sound system, they each have two loudspeakers level with the head restraints. This creates a particularly personalised and immersive music experience with Dolby Atmos and Spatial Audio close to the ear. This premium sound system has a total of 17 loudspeakers.

Generous space inside

As the largest convertible in the mid-size segment, the sporty two-door model offers a high level of long-distance comfort for four people. The dimensions are: 4,850 millimetres long, 1,861 millimetres wide, 1,424 millimetres high and a wheelbase of 2,865 millimetres. Rear passengers in particular benefit from the extra 25 millimetres on the wheelbase. Among other things, they have 72 millimetres more knee room and 19 millimetres more shoulder and elbow room. This makes the vehicle significantly more spacious than the C-Class Cabriolet.

With a volume of 385 litres (295 litres with the top down), the boot is extremely practical for everyday use. If required, this is extendable using the folding rear seat backrests. Customers can conveniently fold them down from the boot in a 60:40 split. Access to the luggage compartment is contactless and fully automatic with HANDS-FREE ACCESS. KEYLESS-GO is also part of standard equipment. The vehicle doors lock and unlock by touching the door handle.

Exceptionally interactive and customised

The entertainment offering is highly interactive and personalised. The third generation of the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system enables third-party apps. The MBUX Entertainment package is optionally available via the Mercedes me Store. It includes internet radio, music streaming and a data package from a selected third-party provider.

Thanks to artificial intelligence, MBUX also offers a new level of personalisation with automated convenience functions. At market launch, customers will be able to use templates for standard routines. Examples include “Cold days” (seat heating switches on at a certain outside temperature) or “Date night” (romantic music plays via Bluetooth audio; the ambient lighting turns pink). Users access the templates via a carousel in the central display. They can also create their own routines, by linking several functions and conditions. They do this on the central display and the resulting routines appear under the “My routines” menu heading.

Dynamic and comfortable driving experience with a powerful, top-of-the-range six-cylinder engine

The chassis of the new CLE Cabriolet enables driving pleasure on winding roads. At the same time, it offers exceptional ride comfort on long journeys. The comfort suspension, which has been lowered by 15 millimetres, is fitted as standard. It combines a supremely comfortable ride with responsive, sporty handling. A sports suspension with an amplitude-selective damping system is available as an option.

The optional DYNAMIC BODY CONTROL suspension facilitates a highly adjustable driving experience ranging from extremely sporty to comfortable through continuous, adaptive damping front and rear. The active suspension individually controls the damping characteristics for each wheel in conjunction with the engine, transmission and steering characteristics. This takes into account the driving situation, speed and road conditions. The DYNAMIC SELECT switch gives the driver a choice between a comfortable or firmer, sportier setup.

All engines are mild hybrids. Each has an integrated starter-generator and 48-volt on-board electrical system.

“Sublime, that’s the word that I would use to describe the all-new CLE model offerings that we have made available to our customers. These are the cars that people dream about, and they do not disappoint. We have come in very competitively with our pricing and customers have unmatched choice in terms of crafting their desired CLE model to their specification.” Alex Boavida. Vice President Sales and Marketing MBSA.

Bucket Seat: Toyota Starlet Cross XR

Toyota and Suzuki share a strange product sharing agreement, while the two companies remain separate entities, the shared model platforms are becoming a bit weird to the keen observer. Suzuki produce a number of models that have been re-badged and sold locally as a Toyota product, this makes sense if the Suzuki variant wasn't sold here but as in all cases the Suzuki model is launched first, followed by the Toyota "version", the more surprising fact is that even with Suzuki launching their model first, the Toyota model still outsells the original Suzuki model. That is the power of brand loyalty I guess, it all started when the Suzuki Baleno was brought, sales of this 1.5L medium sized hatchback wasn't great, a year or so later, it lands on our shores badges as the "Toyota Starlet" and it sells in its thousands. Even though the car is basically still a Suzuki, but because of the name on the car, it drew in the sales. Fast forward to 2023 and Suzuki launches their compact SUV the Fronx. It looked like Toyota backed off with this model after sales of their Urban Cruiser wiped the floor of its half-sibling the Grand Vitara but low and behold, the Toyota Starlet Cross landed on our shores this year and yes, you guessed it, sales are skyrocketing for it. I spent some time with this model and here are my thoughts on the car. 

DESIGN

The Toyota Starlet Cross has a bold yet compact design, with sharp lines and an aggressive front fascia that set it apart from the more understated traditional Starlet. The front end is highlighted by a prominent grille with Toyota’s signature trapezoidal shape, flanked by sleek LED headlamps and angular DRLs, giving it a stylish, almost upscale look for its category.  In profile, it features roof rails, black body cladding along the wheel arches, and 16-inch alloy wheels (depending on trim), giving it a rugged, go-anywhere appearance. The rear design maintains a compact aesthetic with sculpted taillights that wrap around the body, adding to the car's sporty profile. It is a looker of note with it attracting keen interests from passes by during my time with it, this was also helped by the outstanding colour called "Fine Orange" with Bi-tone Black. There's no faulting it from any angle and with the additional aluminium scuff plates on the front and the back, gives it that off-roading menace look that would be nice to see on the rally track, subtle hint for Toyota there. 

PERFORMANCE

Under the hood, the Starlet Cross typically offers a choice of small-displacement, fuel-efficient engines, often a 1.5-liter inline-4 or a 1.0-liter turbocharged three-cylinder, depending on the region. 1.5-Liter Inline-4 Engine: This naturally aspirated engine generates around 77kW and138 Nm of torque. This particular model featured the 5-speed manual transmission and worked well with this engine that is tuned for efficiency and city drivability, offering adequate acceleration and smooth power delivery. Fuel economy is one of the Starlet Cross's strong points with it being able to deliver up to 5.6L per 100km under optimal conditions The Starlet Cross rides comfortably on city streets, absorbing bumps and rough patches with ease. The suspension is tuned for a balance of comfort and control, making it agile enough for urban driving while still stable at highway speeds. The electric power steering is light, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, but it can feel a bit numb at higher speeds. While it’s not a sports car, the Starlet Cross handles corners confidently thanks to its low curb weight and well-tuned suspension. Body roll is minimal, and it’s a stable choice for light off-roading, though it’s best suited for city roads and light countryside trails.

COMFORT

Inside, the Starlet Cross offers a refined, practical cabin with an intuitive layout and ample space for passengers and cargo. The materials are durable, with a blend of soft-touch plastics, textured surfaces, and subtle chrome accents on higher trims. Toyota has focused on ergonomics, making sure frequently used controls are within easy reach.  The seats are well-cushioned and supportive, offering good lateral support for longer drives. This XR model featured bi-colour cloth seats but the material felt really premium. The driver’s seat is adjustable, and in some variants, the steering wheel is also telescopically adjustable, ensuring a comfortable driving position. Despite its subcompact classification, the Starlet Cross has decent interior space. There’s ample headroom, legroom, and shoulder room for front and rear passengers, making it suitable for family use. With the rear seats up, it offers around 320 liters of cargo space, expandable to 710 liters with the seats folded flat. The Starlet Cross is equipped with Toyota's latest infotainment system, which varies depending on the market but typically includes a 7- or 9-inch touchscreen display. This system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it easy to connect smartphones for navigation, calls, and music streaming. Standard safety features on the Startlet Cross include: Dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, and stability control come standard across all trims.

VERDICT

The Toyota Starlet Cross is a smart choice for drivers seeking a reliable, economical, and practical subcompact SUV with just enough style and flair to stand out. While at the heart of the car it remains a Suzuki, you can tell Toyota had some influence in the car, with a dependability with a modern, user-friendly design, making it well-suited for urban families, young professionals, or anyone looking for an efficient crossover that performs well in a variety of driving conditions. The Toyota Starlet Cross offers good value, especially for buyers looking for a reliable, fuel-efficient SUV that can handle both city and light off-road driving. The starting price is competitive within its class, and Toyota’s reputation for long-term durability is a strong selling point over it's product sharing partner Suzuki. Additionally, the availability of various trims and options means there’s likely a Starlet Cross model to fit most budgets and needs and its looks are just an added bonus. 

 SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	1.5L, 4-cylinder NA
Gear Box	5-Speed Manual
Torque	138Nm
Power	77kW
Fuel Consumption	5.6L per 100km
Price	R299,900

Bucket Seat: Honda FIT Hybrid e-CVT

Honda, although a house-hold name around the world and locally often gets overshadowed by it's Japanese counterpart, I mean rightfully so if you take a look at the NAMSA sales stats for the past 20 years. That's not to say Honda isn't good, it's just that they're different, their cars are made for a different target market, while the one aims for large volume of sales, Honda aims more for quality of product which is why their products tend to have a higher price tag than most. Of recent, the brand has undergone some changes in their cars line-up's with an interesting take on the design language, this transcends onto the interior as well with the cabins getting a more premium feel with better quality materials and ergonomic design making it look modern but with a slight retro touch. The FIT, which I drove when launched 2 years ago really impressed me, hence with the Hybrid model was introduced to the market this year, I was itching to get my hands on it to see how it fared against its Japanese cousins who, in my personal opinion have mastered the technology, so here's my take on Honda's car. 

DESIGN

The 2024 Honda Fit Hybrid’s design maintains the Fit’s signature boxy, compact look, maximizing interior space while staying highly maneuverable. The latest model has adopted a more streamlined, modern appearance with updated LED headlights, a refined front grille, and stylish yet subtle lines along the body. The shape is highly functional, designed to reduce drag and enhance fuel efficiency, while details like aerodynamic mirrors and underbody covers also contribute to the model’s low wind resistance. Colors are typically vibrant yet restrained, with options like Opal White, Lunar Silver, Platinum White, Rose Gold and the colour which I had on test, Crystal Red. 

PERFORMANCE

The Honda Fit Hybrid features Honda's e:HEV hybrid system, which combines a 1.5-liter DOHC i-VTEC engine with two electric motors. The result is a combined power output of approximately 90Kw and 253 Nm of torque, providing ample power for urban driving and light highway cruising.The Fit Hybrid operates primarily as an electric vehicle at lower speeds, switching to hybrid mode when more power is needed. At high speeds, the petrol engine takes over for maximum efficiency. This smart system allows the Fit Hybrid to achieve impressive fuel economy.  Unlike traditional transmissions, the Fit Hybrid uses an electronic CVT that minimizes fuel consumption and smoothens the driving experience by matching power output to demand without noticeable shifts.In real-world conditions, drivers can expect to average under 5L per 100km depending on driving habits and road conditions, but Honda claiming 3.7L per 100km which I think is achievable on urban runs. I did take this on a long distance journey thinking I'd get close to 800km on the 40L tank but I think a combination of aggressive driving and not ideal road conditions made me miss this mark by about 120km. The range did seem to drastically drop since showing 100km of range left, so not sure if it's just Honda's way of being extra cautious or it was really dropping that way, either way I had to do some driving on range 0km before making it to a fuel station to fill up. 

COMFORT

Honda has maximized the interior space with the Fit Hybrid’s Magic Seat system, allowing for flexible configurations. The seats can be arranged in Utility Mode, Tall Mode, Long Mode, and Refresh Mode, enabling storage for larger items or creating extra passenger space as needed. As mentioned earlier, the quality of materials has definitely gotten an upgrade, soft-touch materials and well-padded seats offer comfort for long drives. The seats themselves are ergonomic, providing good support, and the available leather trim enhances the premium feel. The Fit’s tall roofline provides excellent headroom for both front and rear passengers, while legroom is ample given the car’s compact size. Cargo space is substantial, with 470 liters available with the seats up, and up to 1,145 liters when the rear seats are folded.Honda equips the Fit Hybrid with modern tech, even at entry-level trims. Features like an infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen standard, offering smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. All models feature Bluetooth, USB ports, and an auxiliary input. Honda's app integration and touchscreen interface are user-friendly, it also has wireless charging. On the highway, the Fit Hybrid is stable and composed, though the engine can be noisy when pushed hard. However, it handles road imperfections well, with suspension tuned for a balanced ride. The overall experience is smooth, efficient, and comfortable for both short commutes and longer trip 

VERDICT

The Honda Fit Hybrid is a practical, versatile, and highly efficient hatchback ideal for drivers seeking a fuel-efficient, low-emission vehicle without compromising on space and flexibility. It’s particularly well-suited for city dwellers who appreciate compact cars with advanced safety features and versatile interiors. While it may lack the acceleration of some rivals, its balanced ride, ease of use, and standout fuel economy make it a solid choice for daily commuting and light family use. The price point of this car is one that stands out, for what you're paying, it's Japanese competitor offers bigger and cheaper alternatives in their hybrid range, while in the Honda you are getting more features in-terms of tech and safety, I'm not sure if it would be enough to persuade the buyer who is more worried about his pocket than nice to haves. 

 SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	1.5L i-MMD Hybrid
Gear Box	eCVT Automatic
Torque	253Nm
Power	90kW
Fuel Consumption	3.7L per 100km
Price	R544,900

Bucket Seat: KIA Sonet 1.5 LX CVT

Earlier this year I attended the launch of the new KIA Sonet in my home town of Durban. When it comes to Korean brands, I tend to prefer the offerings from KIA as they have a more European feel to them with that added Asian flair. The Sonet is a subcompact SUV come Crossover that was introduced in 2020, since its introduction it has done relatively well in all markets, offering the consumer an affordable yet versatile compact SUV. With KIA's range of variants in the Sonet line-up, many can choose the ideal one based on their taste and budget. I got to spend a few days with the LX model for a week, turned out to be the very same car I drove on launch, so here are my thoughts on the car. 

DESIGN

The Kia Sonet is a striking SUV with a bold and distinctive design, aimed at grabbing attention on the road. Some key design elements include the new Tiger-Nose Grille:which is  Kia's signature design aspect, which is wide and gives the car an aggressive stance. The new sharp LED DRLs (Daytime Running Lights), headlamps, and “heartbeat” LED tail lamps make the Sonet stand out, especially in the top variants. With its muscular body lines, sculpted bonnet, and a wide stance, the Sonet looks larger than it is. It has a slightly raised ride height, roof rails, and faux skid plates that add to its rugged SUV-like appearance. Depending on the variant, the Sonet comes with alloy wheels (up to 16 inches), which give it a sporty look. Overall, the Sonet’s design is youthful and contemporary, making it one of the most stylish subcompact SUVs in the market.

PERFORMANCE

The KIA Sonet is available in one engine throughout the line-up and that is the 1.5-litre, 4 cylinder motor that produces 85kW and 144Nm of torque. this is available in both manual and automatic transmission depending on the model variant. The engine itself, while small is perfect for the chassis, its very responsive, even with the CVT automatic gearbox which I had. Generating faster speeds on the highway does take some time but for the basic city commute it handles like a charm. While other countries do get the DCT automatic, which I generally prefer, I really didn't mind the CVT on the Sonet this time round. Maybe the engineers are figuring to make them a bit more tolerable.: The Sonet is tuned for comfort rather than aggressive driving. Its suspension setup absorbs most road imperfections well, making it a good city and highway performer. The fuel economy is not too shabby, with KIA claiming an average consumption of 6.2, I was averaging more to the mid 7's which wasn't bad considering my driving style is rather aggressive. 

COMFORT

I always have high praise for KIA's interiors and that continues it the Sonet as they have done an excellent job with the interior, offering premium touches that rival some higher-end cars.  The interior layout is well thought out with a driver-centric dashboard. The floating 8-inch touchscreen  is the highlight of the dashboard and is seamlessly integrated with the controls. The Sonet has a mix of hard and soft-touch materials, but overall, the fit and finish are impressive for its segment. The higher variants offer leatherette upholstery with contrast stitching, adding a touch of luxury. The Sonet, despite being a subcompact SUV, offers a reasonable amount of interior space. The front seats are well-cushioned and comfortable for long drives. However, the rear seats may feel a bit tight for taller passengers, especially in terms of legroom. It is best suited for four adults for long journeys or five for short trips.  The Sonet offers 392 liters of boot space, which is quite decent for its segment and can accommodate weekend luggage for small families. Kia is known for packing its vehicles with features, and the Sonet is no exception. It is one of the most feature-loaded SUVs in its segment, with even the base variants offering a solid list of equipment. Some standout features include 4.2-inch TFT instrument cluster, Reverse Camera, Bluetooth with voice recognition, Wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto, Steering wheel-mounted controls, 6-speaker sound system and USB charging points for front and rear occupants. 

VERDICT

The Kia Sonet is a standout choice in the subcompact SUV segment, offering a near-premium experience at an affordable price. With its stylish design, impressive feature list, and versatile engine options, it appeals to a wide audience, from young professionals looking for a trendy city car to families seeking an efficient and comfortable urban SUV. While it does face stiff competition, the Sonet’s blend of technology, comfort, and performance makes it a very compelling option. The Kia Sonet is competitively priced, with its base variants being affordable starting at R299,995, while the top-end variants with all the bells and whistles are positioned slightly higher at R484,995. 

 SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	1.5L Petrol
Gear Box	CVT Automatic
Torque	144Nm
Power	85kW
Fuel Consumption	6.2L per 100km
Price	R391,995

Bucket Seat: Ferrari F80

The global reveal of Ferrari's latest hypercar, the F80 took place yesterday and while it doesn't pack an Italian bred V12 like its predecessors, the performance figures are just staggering to see what this car does with a 3.0L V6-Hybrid. It's the most powerful road car to leave the gates at Maranello, pushing out 1200bhp and achieving a 0-200km/h time of just 5.75 seconds! This is all thanks to the 120 degree mounted V6 engine and MGU-K Electric Motor. This motor is the first unit developed, tested and manufactured entirely by Ferrari in Maranello. The car features a host of aerodynamic characteristics, most notably the S-Duct which is formed by the carbon fibre front bonnet consisting of a fixed element connecting the two front wings. Inside this feature are two flaps following the main profile to complete the triplane wing configuration with curvatures and blower slots clearly inspired by the 499P LeMans car. This along with the active aero wing takes the F80 to the perfect aerodynamic balance achieving 1050kg of downforce to keep the car firmly rooted to the ground. Base price on the F80 is set to be around $4 million and being in the hypercar category, there probably is an invite only list to buy this one. 

Bucket Seat: Citroen C3 Aircross - 7 Seater

When it comes to French cars that are made in India, lets just say that I am not the biggest fan of them. So when the Citroën C3 Aircross 7-seater rolled into my driveway for testing, I didn't have much hope for it. While from the outside it looks fantastic, sitting inside the car gave me flash backs of the cheap and nasty materials, lack of insulation and general irks that I found with other cars that come from the sub continent. It’s positioned as a compact SUV designed to accommodate larger families, with a focus on maximizing space in a relatively small footprint and it probably works well in India as the people are generally smaller built than as South Africans. I on the other hand was not going to load it up with 7 people and drive around town but I had some interesting routes planned for the C3 which involved all types of terrain and all sorts of climates and I must say, this car surprised me a lot. In fact, it changed my view on French cars made in India, suffice to say humble pie was had. Here are my thoughts on the C3 Aircross:

DESIGN

The Citroën C3 Aircross features a distinctive design, with a bold front grille, large headlights, and unique Airbump panels that give it a rugged yet quirky appearance. It has an elevated stance and muscular wheel arches, contributing to its SUV-like appearance. The C3 Aircross has roof rails that add to its practicality, offering additional storage options. Having drive the launch model 5-seater, the 7-seater version extends the rear of the vehicle to accommodate the extra seats, and the vehicle looks more extended than the standard C3 Aircross. It maintains the brand's modern yet playful approach to design, with contrasting roof colors and options for custom color packs. The large 17-inch diamond cut 4-spoke alloy wheels give it distinct look and adds to the charm of the overall design. I must say, the C3 Aircross is a looker and at first glance doesn't give you a budget look at all but a rather very Euro-Premium feel.

PERFORMANCE

I was quite surprised that the same 1.2-liter PureTech petrol engine which is in the standard C3  remained frugal to my demands, paired with a 6-speed automatic gearbox the engine produces 81kW, which is sufficient for city driving and moderate highway speeds, but it may feel slightly underpowered when the vehicle is fully loaded but like I said, I never had to carry a load so the engine was more than capable for what I had drive. The gearbox is smooth for the most part, though it may hesitate at times, especially during quick overtakes or sharp accelerations. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing most bumps and road imperfections easily, which is one of Citroën's strong suits, the call it the "magic carpet feel" which I must admit, did its part when navigating soft beach sand and cushioned most of the harsh bumps on the gravel surfances. The driving experience is relaxed, and it's a good vehicle for families prioritizing comfort over sharp handling. However, because of its taller design, body roll is noticeable during cornering, and it doesn't feel as sporty or agile as some rivals in its class. The 1.2-liter engine, when mated to the automatic transmission, offers fuel consumption of around 6.0-7.0 liters per 100 km. These figures are typical for a vehicle in this class, but they may increase if the car is heavily loaded with passengers and luggage.

COMFORT

The interior is designed with a focus on comfort and modularity. The second row seats slide and recline, allowing flexible use of space for passengers or cargo. While the third row adds seating for up to seven, it's important to note that the rear-most seats are best suited for children or shorter trips, as legroom can be limited for adults. With all seven seats in use, the boot space is relatively small, around 165 liters. However, when the third row is folded down, the capacity increases significantly to around 520 liters, making it ideal for luggage on family trips. The Citroën C3 Aircross comes equipped with a range of tech features aimed at making the driving experience more convenient and enjoyable, most notable is the 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for easy smartphone integration. The graphics are clear, though the system can sometimes lag in response, also I did find it often disconnected from the wireless connection while driving quite  a few times. The car has a multi-function steering wheel with buttons for car info on the instrument cluster and to control media, but these were also buggy with the volume buttons sometimes ending controlling the skip function and then only making the volume lower not increasing no matter which button you pressed. The car came with standard manual aircon controls and no climate control but it did offer a sperate duct for the rear passengers which I thought was cool. The C3 Aircross has a ground clearance of 200mm which is good in its class and managed a host of terrains with is, included soft beach sand even though its not a 4-wheel drive car!

VERDICT

The Citroën C3 Aircross 7-seater automatic is ideal for families prioritizing comfort, flexibility, and a distinctive design. It offers a soft, easygoing ride, with good fuel efficiency and plenty of tech for the price. However, if you need to frequently transport seven adults or want a more dynamic driving experience, you might want to explore alternatives, as the third row is more suitable for occasional use, and the engine may feel underpowered with a full load. The C3 Aircross 7-seater typically offers good value for money, with its base models priced competitively compared to other SUVs in the segment. Prices can increase with additional features, trims, and technology packs, but even higher-spec models tend to be more affordable than some of its rivals. This makes it a solid option for families looking for a budget-friendly, comfortable SUV with seating flexibility. I spent a solid 9-hours driving it for an entire day and normally one would be quite fatigued from all the driving but the C3 managed to keep me comfortable through the experience, even while navigating some harsh terrain and for that, I must say kudos to it. 

 SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	1.2L Turbo Petro
Gear Box	6-Speed Automatic
Torque	205Nm
Power	81kW
Fuel Consumption	6.3L per 100km
Price	R354,900

Bucket Seat: Volkswagen ID.4 Pro

It's a subject that has the motoring world divided, it's something that was one of the causes of the greatest motoring trio the world has seen to stop what they loved the most, reviewing cars, the electric car. Jeremy Clarkson said at the end of their final Special for the Grand Tour, and I quote "There are lots of reasons why we're jacking this show in but for me, one of the main ones is I'm simply not interested in electric cars. They are just white goods, they're washing machines, they're microwave ovens. You can't review those, you can't enjoy them" and to an extent I will agree with him but what Jeremy and other hardcore petrol heads fail to see is the evolution of this technology. I disagree with him that you can't review them, I disagree with him that you cannot enjoy them. When I was a kid, my favourite toy from my collection was a remote (wired) controlled 190E Mercedes Benz DTM car. I had tonnes of fun with this toy running around the house driving it. In essence that is what an electric car is, electric motor and batteries and it brought me so much of joy, from a tender age of 11 I thought about how a normal car could use a battery to operate it but obviously it takes a lot more than what a toy has. There's the safety aspects that one has to take into consideration as well as all the latest technology and creature comforts that people expect in cars these days. There are a lot of components that make up a car and to the benefit of the manufacturers, they've revolutionized the way we see electric cars since the very first ones we saw no too long ago. One of the EV's which has changed the market's perception of these electric powered cars is the Volkswagen ID.4, while it was introduced to Europe almost 2 years ago, it's made its way onto South African shores this year, but its not for sale just yet. I attended the launch a few months back but recently got to spend some quality time with it and these are my thoughts. 

DESIGN

Volkswagen aim for the ID.4 was to be an electric SUV and to an extent is fits the mold, with a decent ride height, ground clearance and spacious cabin and lots of luggage space, it ticks all the boxes. Whether or not I'd take it off roading is a different story altogether, not that I think it won't manage the dirt tracks, I'd be too scared to find out if it cannot but getting back to the design, the ID.4 has a very different look to the conventional VW design language, while signature elements are there, the overall look and shape of the car make it known that this is something different. The exterior of the Volkswagen ID.4 is a perfect balance of modernity and functionality. It features sleek, aerodynamic lines that give it a futuristic but approachable look. Unlike some EVs that go too far in terms of radical design, the ID.4 sticks to a more mainstream aesthetic, which will likely appeal to a broader audience. Up front, the ID.4 has a closed-off grille (typical for EVs) and VW's new illuminated logo, which gives it a premium feel, especially at night. The full-width LED light bar across the front and matrix headlights add to its futuristic look, while the sculpted hood and large wheels give it a commanding road presence. The rear of the car also features LED lighting and a subtle, integrated spoiler, which enhances aerodynamics. 

PERFORMANCE

The ID.4  was launched in Europe in 2020 and was available  in various configurations, starting with a single-motor rear-wheel-drive (RWD) model and an all-wheel-drive (AWD) dual-motor option for more power and better traction. The model that is brought down to SA is the Pro model which has a single electric motor that produces 150kW and 310Nm of torque. This equates to a 0-100km time of 8.5 seconds, nothing to write home about I know but bare in mind that this is a family vehicle and has a heavy payload with the batteries. The car, while doesn't feature a conventional gearbox has two driving modes, namely "D" and "B" which can be selected from the gear selector that extends out of the digital instrument cluster. Drive, being a more conventional driving experience and has a less harsher regeneration feel to it but does eat into the battery life, while "B" is more suited for your urban commute as it enhances the regeneration side of the breaks giving it a slightly more harsher feel when lifting off the accelerator.  The ride quality of the ID.4 is tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling, which suits its family-SUV nature. It absorbs road imperfections well, making for a smooth and quiet ride, especially with the near-silent operation of the electric drivetrain. The steering is light and precise, but it lacks the sharpness that some drivers might crave.

CHARGING

One of the most important aspects of any EV is its range, and the Volkswagen ID.4 performs admirably here. The RWD model comes with an 77 kWh battery pack that provides an EPA-estimated range of around 531km on a full charge, as per the brochure but a full charge gave me a range of 431km, this fluctuated with my driving styles as I drove the car, if you drive it properly, the ID.4 will show you its worth, even with the range saying 431km, it could easily have done more with the power regeneration thanks to those massive 235 tyres. Range anxiety is a thing of the past with the ID.4 and even when my range dropped to below 70km, and the colours in the car started to turn red, I was note phased at all. I was not brave enough to take it to 0% battery life but other media colleagues did and it still managed to do an extra 10km till it got to the charging station.  The car is responsive like any EV would be, but flicking between the driving modes really shows you how the character of the car can change. The silence is something I've gotten used to and the smoothness of the drive is just superb. When it comes to charging, the ID.4 supports DC fast charging up to 150 kW, which allows it to charge from 5% to 80% in around 30 minutes at a fast-charging station. The fastest charging station I had access to was the DC charging station at Gateway Shopping Center which was a 66kW station which manage to charge the ID.4 from 7% to 100% in just under an hour, or just long enough to have my lunch. Home charging whether with a wall box or direct from your wall socket will take in excess of 7 hours or overnight but when it comes to charging, unless you know you're doing a lot of running around the next day, one would only be charging this car once a week. 

COMFORT

The interior of the ID.4 is minimalist but loaded with tech. The layout is clean and clutter-free, with a focus on simplicity. The centerpiece is a 10-inch (upgradable to 12-inch in higher trims) touchscreen infotainment system, which controls most of the car's functions, from navigation to climate control. The cabin feels open and airy, helped by the available panoramic sunroof and large windows that provide great visibility. The materials used are mostly high-quality, though some harder plastics are present, especially in lower trims. However, the overall build quality is solid, and the seats are comfortable for long drives. There's plenty of space for passengers in both the front and rear seats, making it a practical choice for families. The ID.4 offers 543-liters of luggage space behind the rear seats, expanding to `,575-liters with the seats folded, which is competitive for the segment. Volkswagen has equipped the ID.4 with a suite of advanced tech features that enhance both convenience and safety. The infotainment system is responsive and integrates wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring seamless smartphone connectivity. The system also supports voice control, which Volkswagen calls “ID. Light,” a system of visual cues integrated into the dashboard to communicate certain information (such as navigation prompts or incoming calls). The digital instrument cluster is fully customizable, giving drivers quick access to important information. The ID.4 also comes with a variety of driver-assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automated emergency braking, as part of VW’s “IQ.Drive” suite of safety systems. Higher trims include features like a 360-degree camera, park assist, and an augmented reality head-up display that projects navigation directions onto the windshield.

VERDICT

The Volkswagen ID.4, to me just goes to prove what EV's can offer, while this is an old model that we're only getting to experience now, it just goes to show what brands are doing with the technology and its no surprise why it was an excellent choice for buyers in Europe who were looking to transition to electric driving without compromising on the practicality and comfort of a compact SUV. Its competitive range, spacious interior, and advanced tech make it a strong contender in the rapidly growing EV market. While it may not offer the high-performance thrills of some competitors, its well-rounded nature, combined with Volkswagen's strong build quality and brand recognition, makes it an appealing option for families and environmentally conscious consumers alike. Like all cars, it does come with some pros and cons, with the pros outweighing the cons and for the type use one would get an ID.4 for, it really makes the competition look weak. While we can't really compare it to other EV's on the market since VWSA won't be putting it on sale anytime soon, even with the upcoming leasing option it would be hard to judge it against other brands in the market. It still is a conundrum to me as to why Volkswagen Group are taking this stance since its sister company, Audi is selling their e-trons to the market, it remains to be seen if they change their stance on the matter as I personally believe they have a winning car in their pocket.

 SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	Single Electric Motor
Gear Box	Automatic
Torque	310Nm
Power	150kW
Battery	77kWh
Price	Not For Sale