Bucket Seat: Traveler Tips with HONOR 200 Series

Travelling, whether it be within the country or abroad, is on almost everyone’s bucket list. From exploring the natural beauty of the Devil’s Pool in Victoria Falls, to exploring the hidden historical beauty of the Cradle of Humankind in Gauteng – the travel bug is sure to catch us at some point or the other.

But once the planning, booking, and packing are behind us — what really happens during the trip? Is it a day packed with scheduled activities, or do we venture out and explore the wonders on our own without the guidance of a local tour?

HONOR knows travelling can be as confusing as it is exciting, which is why the brand curated the ultimate travel guide for the most memorable trip. The must-pack item, though? The HONOR 200 Series, which features the HONOR 200 Pro and HONOR 200.

Here’s what every traveller should try out on their trip:

Ditch the Tour: Become a Wanderlust

Travel is about discovering the unexpected. Putting away the map and simply wanders gives travellers to open themselves up to serendipitous moments and hidden gems that aren’t in any guidebook.

And with the HONOR 200 Series, which is embedded with Google Mobile Services, travellers will always have access to Google Maps to make sure they’re going the right way.

Wandering without a plan will get travellers to experience a destination in its most authentic form – whether it be a charming café tucked away in a quiet alley, a local artisan shop, or breathtaking views stumbled on by chance.

Be a Tourist: Get Immersed in Those Iconic Sites

There’s a reason why certain landmarks and attractions draw travellers from all over the world – these attractions are awe-inspiring. So, embrace that inner tourist and take the time to visit those iconic sites.

And of course, take pictures. As many as needed because with the HONOR 200 Series ample storage capacity of 512GB, travellers will have enough space to keep their favourite memories stored safely without ever having to delete any.

Whether it’s standing in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower or driving through the open plains of Kruger National Park to see the Big 5, these experiences create lasting memories.

Snap Every Moment: Pictures Last a Lifetime

Moments of the trip can be fleeting, but pictures allow travellers to relive those moments forever.

The HONOR 200 Pro and HONOR 200feature an impressive camera system. Equipped with a 50MP Main Portrait Camera, an impressive 50MP Telephoto Camera, and large sensors, it captures every detail, from the vibrant hues of a bustling city to the subtle nuances of a serene landscape. The devices further impresses with its 50MP Portrait Selfie Camera, crafted to enhance travel and vacation photography with exceptional detail.

With the HONOR AI Portrait Engine, tourists can effortlessly capture the perfect shot while the AI handles the technical aspects. It automatically optimises settings, recognises scenes, and enhances photos so users can focus on enjoying their travels and creating memorable personal portraits that highlight both their experiences and surroundings.

Be the Last One Awake: Witness the City Go to Sleep

There’s something magical about being awake when the rest of the world is winding down. As the hustle and bustle of the day fades, cities reveal a quieter, more intimate side. Stroll through the empty streets, listen to the echoes of distant conversations, and watch as the city transitions into slumber.

After a full day of exploring, city gazing at night can still be on the books with the HONOR 200 Series. Featuring a 5200mAh Silicon-Carbon Battery built to last all day on a single charge, the smartphone becomes the ultimate travel companion – ensuring travellers are connected any time of the day.

With all-day battery life, being the last one awake lets explorers experience the serenity of a destination that most travellers miss.

Travelling is more than just checking off destinations on a map – it’s about embracing and immersing oneself in new experiences and creating memories that will last a lifetime. And with the HONOR 200 Pro as the perfect travel companion, explorers can rest assured they’ll be able to get the most out of their trip.

Pricing and Availability

The HONOR 200 Pro and HONOR 200 are available at the nearest retailer or network provider for the recommended retail price of R19 999 and R15 999, respectively.

The purchase of the HONOR 200 Pro and HONOR 200 will include free gifts to the value of R6 999, including an HONOR SuperCharge plus the cable, a screen protector, free postal repair with pickup and delivery service, a 3-year battery health protection warranty, and a 180-day screen accident warranty, which excludes labour fees.

For more information, please visit HONOR.

Bucket Seat: Ford Ranger XLT

It seems fitting that this review is being published in the very same week that Ford South Africa is celebrating it's centenary in the country. The American motoring giant has long ties with the country and helping build the economy over the years, now more than ever it's at its strongest with Billions invested into the plant in Silverton to see the production of the new Ford Ranger and VW Amarok. This expansion and investment saw the creation of thousands of jobs locally and firmly rooting their commitment to South Africa. The Ranger XLT is one of the many variants available in the Ranger range, with the XLT forming the bridge between work-horse and lifestyle bakkie. Having spent time with both of its partners derivatives, this was my first hand experience in the new Ranger, so it was keen to see the differences that this would have over the other model on which its based on. 

DESIGN

Ford's new design took many by surprise when we first got a look at the new Ranger, bold American pick-up truck inspired looks really gives the new Ranger presence like never before on the roads. The car is also physically bigger than its predecessor by a few millimeters here and there but it stands tall with increase ride height and bigger rims and wheels to amplify that it means business on and off the road. The C-Clamp headlamps are a focal point of the design, with the C shaped LED halo that serves as day-time running lights and the main lamps housed inside that. The massive new grille extends from the lights to the center which is adorned by the Ford emblem in the middle. Like the Everest, it's a very strong front design with the top of it colour-coded, the bottom see's a mixtures of robust plastics and the skid plates which are finished in brushed aluminium to give it some character. The profile of the car is where you can see the increase in ride height with a visible gap between the wheel arch and the top of the tyre. The wheel arches also have that black plastic border to prevent scratches to the body work. A side step extends from the front to the back, with black detailing for the side vents, and bin frame. Being an in between model, the doors get black plastic handles. What I like about Ford's design over the VW is that there is small additions to the design that make so much sense, like the inclusion of a step at the rear end of the bin on either side to make entry into the bin easier, then the ruler which is embossed on the tail gate of the bin for measurements on site.  There is even slots for clamps on the bin walls and a 12V power outlet in the bin. Very practical and extremely innovative if you ask me. 

PERFORMANCE

With a choice of two engine derivatives in the XLT range, and two drive options, I was in the seat of of the range topping 2.0L Bi-Turbo Diesel 4x4 model. Producing 154kW and 500Nm of torque, the power supplied by the motor, coupled with that magnificent 10-speed automatic gear box just gives the XLT power on demand, whether you have a load or not, the car senses when to use how much power thanks to that gearbox. This gives the XLT a great fuel economy. Going off road with it, having the option of four wheel drive is always handy should you get your self in a pickle but for most of my gravel expeditions, leaving the car in two wheel drive and occasionally getting into four -high was more than adequate for it. The car handles extremely well both on the tar and in the dirt, the turning circle might not be the greatest but that is a given since it is a rather large vehicle. The Range XLT boats a towing capacity of 3500kg so rest assured your caravan can be towed along to any destination with ease. The steering feels light on the hand with easy maneuverability at slow speeds, making it ideal to navigate those tricky paths when venturing off road. 

COMFORT

I know I said the XLT is an in-betweener of a Workhorse and a Lifestyle bakkie, stepping into the cabin makes you feel its more of the latter as its a very nice place to be. Full leather seats with patterns that match the front grille, and white stitching, A stylish dash finished off with various textured materials and elements with that large 10.4-inch infotainment screen, it makes the Ranger XLT feel like a modern SUV. The driver and front passenger enjoy dual zone climate control with vents in the back for the rear passengers. With Ford's latest SYNC OS on the screen it makes it really easy to navigate what you need, or with most of us today, this screen makes the perfect display for mobile applications such as Apple Car Play and Android Auto. The wireless charger sits below the climate controls with two USB ports for charging. The instrument cluster is fully digital with various views to toggle with and it has a full multi-function steering wheel with buttons to control pretty much every thing in the cabin, keeping the drivers hands where they should be. Space in the cabin is very impressive with even my seat being reclined to the back due to my height, still giving the rear occupants enough room to be seated comfortably. Being a bakkie I dont think much gets spoken about the bin, I love the molding and the finishing of the Fords bin, even with the power outlet, clamps and ruler I mentioned earlier, it just feels a much neater product than the VW. 

VERDICT

Ford's pricing for their new Ranger was very aggressive, coming in at almost identical pricing to the outgoing models made this product a very attractive offering. To see what the cars are coming loaded with in terms of technology and safety, it makes you think hard and long that this is actually a bakkie and not an SUV. Such is the demand for these lifestyle vehicles, its nice to see Ford heading the consumers call by offering vehicles like this to suit almost everyone's pockets. While you will get the odd few who will moan about paying that much for a bakkie, stepping inside one, driving it around you will very quickly learn that its value for money. 

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	2.0L Bi-Turbo
Gear Box	10-Speed Automatic
Torque	500Nm
Power	154kW
Towing capacity	3500kg
Price	R833,800*

Bucket Tech: HUAWEI Watch GT4

The HUAWEI WATCH GT 4 smartwatch is where classic meets modern, and lifestyle meets innovation. This timepiece introduces elevated design features with powerful health and fitness functionalities. It takes a bold fashion-forward step up from the classic GT Series designs, introducing inventive design elements while retaining the modern geometric aesthetics of its predecessors.

It also transforms the smartwatch fitness experience with its improved Activity Rings and upgraded Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) tracking, all made better with the new TruSeen™ 5.5+ that brings AI-powered accuracy to health measurement, inspiring you towards a better, fitter self.

What more can consumers expect?

The HUAWEI WATCH GT 4 smartwatch is sleek and a fusion of timeless elegance. They are available in two sizes and designs: the 46mm version, featuring an eye-catching octagonal bezel for a polished, chiselled look, and the dainty 41mm version, resembling a chic bracelet that complements any outfit, from cocktail dresses to casual denim.

Both the 46mm and 41 mm are available in three vibrant colour options with customisable HUAWEI Easyfit Straps, and watch faces.

When it comes to the battery life, both live up to the standard expected with the GT Series, the HUAWEI WATCH GT 4 (46mm) boasts up to 14 days of battery life while the 41mm version can last up to 7 days, ensuring that users stay connected and stylish without interruption.

What’s more, the HUAWEI WATCH GT 4 smartwatches are designed for those who take their health seriously, they come with upgraded sensors for precise data. The all-new TruSeenTM 5.5+ provides accurate readings and deep insights about physiological metrics, all thanks to the power of AI algorithms. The AI learning utilises a multi-channel signal enhancement algorithm, ensuring that users have a comprehensive view of their health and sleep cycle, like never before.

For those that are ready to conquer their fitness goals, The HUAWEI WATCH GT 4 is the right companion. From calorie counting to deficit monitoring and weight control plans, whatever option is chosen, it can be considered as a personal fitness guru. Health enthusiasts can stay on track with calorie alerts and monitor their progress effortlessly. With support for over 100 sports modes, including Padel and more, fitness fanatics will never run out of ways to stay active.

If you are looking to start  your journey to a more stylish and healthier you.  Then visit the HUAWEI online store today to pre-order the HUAWEI WATCH GT 4 and experience a new era in luxury, health, and connectivity.

Pre-order of the HUAWEI WATCH GT 4 is open from 27 September to 05 October 2023 and if you pre-order the HUAWEI WATCH GT 4 from R6999 you will receive FREE promotional gifts worth R1500. Terms and Conditions apply.

Bucket Tech: Samsung Galaxy Z Series

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. has announced its fifth generation of Galaxy foldables: Galaxy Z Flip5 and Galaxy Z Fold5. The exceptional form factors offer unique experiences for every user with sleek and compact designs, countless customisation options, and powerful performance. The new Flex Hinge makes the foldable experience possible, while offering an aesthetically balanced and solid design. These incredible foldable devices unlock extraordinary camera capabilities such as FlexCam to take photos from creative angles. With strong performance and an optimised battery powered by the latest processor, the Samsung Galaxy Z series transforms what is possible with a smartphone – open or closed.

“Samsung is revolutionising the mobile industry with foldables by setting the standard and continually refining the experience,” said TM Roh, President and Head of Mobile eXperience Business at Samsung Electronics. “Every day, more people choose our foldables because they offer an experience people want that they can’t get on any other device. Galaxy Z Flip5 and Galaxy Z Fold5 are the latest devices that prove our commitment to meeting the needs of our customers through innovative technology.”

Samsung’s heritage of innovation and dedication to the foldables category has created incredibly versatile devices available. With a strong belief in the potential of the foldable format, paired with superb R&D and manufacturing capabilities, Samsung has consistently refined and optimised the Galaxy Z series lineup. From content creation on Galaxy Z Flip5’s new Flex Window to seamless multitasking on Galaxy Z Fold5, this series of Galaxy foldables meets and exceeds the distinctive needs of today’s users.

Furthermore, both Galaxy Z Flip5 and Galaxy Z Fold5 are carefully designed to meet durability expectations. The main screen is equipped with a shock dispersion layer and a redesigned back for a more solid display. Along with IPX8 support, Armor Aluminum frames, and Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus® 2 applied to both the Flex Window and back cover, Galaxy Z Flip5 and Galaxy Z Fold5 provide the protection consumers expect, enhanced further by Flex Hinge. This new integrated hinge module features a dual rail structure, diffusing external impacts.

Galaxy Z Flip5: The ultimate pocketable self-expression tool without compromise

The Galaxy Z Flip5 delivers a stylish, unique foldable experience from a pocket-sized device built for self-expression.

The new Flex Window, now 3.78 times larger than the previous generation, offers a wide range of existing and new capabilities. It provides more customisation options, including informative and graphical clocks that can match the face design of a user’s Galaxy Watch6 series, as well as stylish frames. In addition, Galaxy Z Flip5’s new Flipsuit Case provides device protection with a changeable NFC card, so users can match their Flex Window design and case design for even more personalisation options.

Closed, the Galaxy Z Flip5 offers more usability than ever before. From the Flex Window, quickly and effortlessly access useful information. With Widgets, users can check the weather, control music playback and listen to their favorite music with Media Controller, or catch up on the latest global stock market updates with the Google Finance widget. Simply view all Widgets at a glance and switch between them instantly with a pinch of the screen to activate Multi Widget View. Plus, easily check notifications and access Quick Settings for Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Without ever opening the device, browse through call history to return missed calls, and reply to texts on-the-go using Quick Reply with a full QWERTY keyboard and visibility of chat history. With a quick swipe up on the screen, access Samsung Wallet to pay on-the-go, access QR codes and coupons, as well as boarding passes, membership cards, digital keys and health passes.

With its unparalleled design and form factor, Galaxy Z Flip5 also offers the most versatile camera experience on a Samsung Galaxy smartphone. Take high-quality selfies with the rear camera thanks to the larger Flex Window. Users can capture stunning hands-free photos from creative angles with FlexCam. It’s quick and simple to view and edit shots in Flex Mode too. Users can review, adjust the colour tone, or delete images easily with the Quick View in the Flex Window.  When taking a photo of a friend, Dual Preview lets them see themselves in the Flex Window so they can make adjustments in real time for the perfect shot. Users can get a smooth shot on the go with camera-stabilising Super Steady, while Auto Framing ensures that no one is left out.

The Galaxy Z Flip5 adds AI solution improvements to the powerful camera experience, bringing every photo to life. Get creative, even in low light, with improved Nightography capabilities that optimise photos and videos in ambient lighting conditions. The AI-powered image signal processing (ISP) algorithm corrects any visual noise that typically spoils low-light images while enhancing details and colour tone. Even from a distance, photos are clearer with the digital 10X zoom.

Galaxy Z Fold5: The ultimate productivity powerhouse with a large screen

Offering an immersive, large screen and a long-lasting battery in the thinnest, lightest Fold yet, Galaxy Z Fold5 is easy to take anywhere, while delivering the most powerful performance in the Galaxy Z series. 

The Galaxy Z Fold has been a pioneer in transforming everyday productivity through a robust, big screen experience, evolving from Multi Window and App Continuity to a wide range of features including Taskbar, drag and drop, and optimisation of third-party apps. S Pen Fold Edition introduced in the third generation Fold in 2021, has also been fine-tuned to deliver a superior writing experience on Galaxy Z Fold5. These features and tools come together to deliver powerful productivity on a large screen and enable users to complete important tasks from anywhere.

The improved Taskbar enables dynamic productivity by allowing users to quickly switch between frequently used apps. Now up to four recent apps are at the ready for more efficient working. Newly enhanced two-handed drag and drop can also ramp up productivity when moving content between apps and screens. Simply touch and hold an image in Samsung Gallery with one finger and use another finger to open the Samsung Notes app to drag-and-drop the image. With hidden pop-up, an app can continue running in the background, allowing users to watch video content in full screen and chat with friends in a floating pop-up on the side of the screen.

The new slimmer and more compact S Pen Fold Edition makes real-time annotating and ideation easy while being able to fit more comfortably in the pocket. The Slim S Pen Case is nearly the same thickness as a regular case for the Fold and available in a variety of styles and colours so users can carry their S Pens in style.

Helping users do more on the go, the 7.6-inch Main Screen provides expansive and uninterrupted viewing so users can enjoy their favorite movie in portrait or landscape. Plus, peak brightness has increased by more than 30%, up to 1750 nits, for an optimal viewing experience outdoors even under bright sunlight.

Providing users with an immersive gaming experience on the largest Galaxy smartphone screen, the Snapdragon® 8 Gen 2 Mobile Platform for Galaxy enhances graphics and uses AI to enable dynamic gaming and multi-game functionality. The Galaxy Z Fold5 can comfortably handle marathon gaming sessions with its advanced cooling system that dissipates heat more intelligently for less lag and no drop in performance.

Delivering a positive impact for the planet

Samsung continue to demonstrate progress toward the company’s environmental vision and accelerate actions that help achieve its goals, including reaching net zero carbon emissions by the end of 2030 for the Device eXperience Division.

The Galaxy Z Flip5 and Fold5 feature a wider variety of recycled materials than their previous generations, including pre-consumer recycled glass and aluminum and post-consumer recycled plastics, sourced from discarded fishing nets, water barrels and PET bottles. Even the paper used for their packaging box is made using 100 percent recycled material.

These innovations have also been purposefully designed for optimised longevity. Each device comes with five years of security updates and four generations of OS upgrades, helping to extend the product lifecycle.

Availability

The Galaxy Z Flip5 and Galaxy Z Fold5 will be available for pre-order in select markets after Unpacked on 26 July 2023, with general availability starting on 18 August 2023.

Galaxy Z Flip5 lets users express themselves with colours including Mint, Graphite, Cream, and Lavender, as well as a range of accessories including a Clear Gadget Case, Flap Eco-Leather Case, Flipsuit Case and easy-to-carry Silicone Case with Ring to create a more personalised look.

Galaxy Z Fold5 is available in Icy Blue, Phantom Black, and Cream, along with a variety of cases that offer practicality and style including a Slim S Pen Case, Clear Gadget Case, Eco-Leather Case, and a Standing Case with Strap.

If you pre-order now, you can double your device’s storage from 256GB to 512GB at no extra cost – Terms & Conditions Apply. Samsung is committed to giving customers peace of mind with Samsung Care+, a support service for accidental damage, repairs, and more  Enjoy your new device and stay worry-free with the Samsung Care+ 1 Year Complementary Screen protection valued at R1999. Inner and/or outer screen covered – should both Fold screens be damaged in the first incident, both screens will be replaced. The cover is for one screen damage, is valid for 12 months and registration must be done within 30 days from date of device purchase. R999 repair fee is payable to customer when claiming.

Bucket Tech: Huawei MateBook D Series

Everyone knows Huawei for their brilliant mobile devices and of recent their smart tablets have been getting more exposure but they also make laptops and quite frankly they're just as good if not better than most of their competitors on the market! The MateBook D series comprises of two models, the D15 and D14, both of which are essentially the same with the only difference being screen size. Huawei says the main selling point for the MateBook D Series is its pricing point and while they always cater for the masses by giving us value for money products, this notebook is much of the same, they have not compromised on performance or quality in these products and the price is pretty reasonable and in most cases cheaper than the competition. The D Series laptops feature some of the innovations available on the market today, its equipped with an AMD Ryzen 5 3500U processor and a Radeon Vega 8 graphics card, the system design and capabilities enable these laptops to realise the full potential of their CPUs and GPUs output. The result is machines that work hard and play hard, and will be able to deliver any task you set them. 

Huawei have made these the first Windows PC's to use fingerprint technology for log-in, which works really well when you boot up, all you do is scan your finger and it logs straight in, no need to input passwords. The laptops come with 8GB of DDR4 memory, thats enough to handle most high-load apps no the market. While these laptops are high spec'd, their main aim is for work output as well as browsing, they are capable of running games as well but not on the highest graphics setting. 

Huawei market these as lifestyle laptops, depending on your circumstances and needs, they integrate seamlessly with other Huawei devices. With Huawei share, all you have to do is touch your mobile device to the laptop and it instantly syncs the devices with a virtual screen of your phone on the laptop. You can access your phones files directly from the laptop screen and can drag & drop documents with ease. No need for cables and security settings. 

The Huawei MateBook D15 laptop measures just 16.9mm thick making it the thinnest and lightest laptop in its price bracket, with its 15.6" FullView display offers a borderless viewing experience with 1080p FHD IPS screen. The top and side bezels are only 5.3MM thick which means its a 87% screen-to-body ratio, again the highest yet on a Huawei MateBook D. The D14 laptop on the other hand has a 14" FullView display, with an 84% screen-to-body ratio and is just 15.9mm thick. The MateBook D battery life is particularly impressive as its approximate life is 9.5 hours on video playback while the D15 has a 6 hour battery life. 

Overall, its yet another great product offering from the Chinese manufacturer, pricing is on point with the both having a RRP of R13,499 and are available from the Huawei online store or other Tech outlets. 

Bucket Set: Ford Figo Freestyle

Yesterday Ford South Africa hosted their first online local launch, and it's quite a vehicle that had this unique introduction to the local market. It's the all-new Figo Freestyle which essentially is a crossover version of the much loved Figo. Ford felt the need to strengthen it's presence in the rapidly growing sub-B compact utility vehicle segment and what better way to do it than to introduce something that's familiar with market. The Figo Freestyle joins the likes of the EcoSport and and Kuga in their lifestyle orientated models along with the Everest which is the biggest in the range. 

"The all-new Figo Freestyle build's on Ford' reputation as one of the pioneers of the utility vehicle segment, with SUV-derived design cues, robust stand with increased groud clearance and commanding seating position, it has the credentials of an SUV in a compact package that is ideally suited to city driving during the week and escaping to the countryside on weekends." - Doreen Mashinini, General Manager Marketing at FMCSA.

The Figo Freestyle brings a much needed affordable option to those wanting something more robust but to suit their pockets. It will be offered in two models, with the Trend package and headliner Titanium series, both models are powered by Ford's eager 1.5L 3 cylinder Ti-VCT engine which powers the current Figo range. It's an impressive little motor punching out 91kW and 150Nm controlled by a five-speed manual gearbox.  Design on the Figo Freestyle is pretty funky, overall form is that of the Figo hatch but with higher ground clearance and the additions of some robust plastic accents around the wheel arches and front and back bumpers.  The interior is pretty much the same with all the bells and whistles with the Titanium model receiving a 6.5" floating dock with SYNC3 system. 

Pricing for the Figo Freestyle is as follows. 

Figo Freestyle 1.5 Trend Hatch R226 700

Figo Feestyle 1.5 Titanium R247 500

BoomTown presented by Heineken

With the Vodacom Durban July just one sleep away, most of the country is busy making their way to the party capital this weekend. Conveys will arrive tomorrow at Greyville Racecourse to pay witness to the continents biggest Horse Racing Event and there is only one marquee you should be at. BoomTown, presented by Heineken promises to be the Capital of Entertainment as the biggest Marquee for the 11th year running. 

Recognised for providing the ultimate in expert hospitality, BoomTown presented by Heineken and powered by Channel O and East Coast Radio is the only choice in providing the finest lifestyle and premium experience at the Vodacom Durban July. Joining an already announced music line with SA's biggest multi-award winning artists such as Kwesta, Sjava, Lady Zamar, Busiswa, Sun-El, Black Motion, Mlindo the Vocalist, Da Capo. Sumbody and Benny Maverick, is Holly Rey, Thabsie and Ms Cosmo who will ensure BoomTown is the entertainment capital at this years Durban July. 

Experience impeccable fashion, premium hospitality and urban lifestyle at its best and celebrate Stars of Africa at this years Boomtown presented by Heinken. A variety of hospitality packages are still available for purchase at BoomTown via Computicket. These include:

• General Access - R690 pp
• VIP package - R2500pp
• VVIP package - R3500pp
• Private Tables - R4500 ex vat pp (tables of 10 or 20)

For more information on ticketing and bookings, visit Computicket website, for more info on group bookings, kindly email david@boomtownevents.co.za

Bucket Seat: Volvo XC40 - R Design

When it comes to cars, the Swedes always tended to do things differently in their own unique way and while most of the world never really got to grasp with their cars, those who did own them, knew what they were on about. Volvo in particular we leads in passenger safety and then the stepped up a notch and also made their cars safe for pedestrians, how so you may ask? Well on certain models they design the crumple zones to minimize injury to a person if he was being hit by one of their vehicles, weird but you got to hand it to them for thinking about everybody. Going back to safety for their own passengers, the XC90 won the title as the worlds safest car and apart from that award, the XC90 was  a major car for the brand, as it ushered in a new dawn for cars that were to follow. Volvo sort of lost track with the styling and consumer appeal with their cars for a bit, and a drastic change was needed to get the brand recognised again. 

Apart from just building an attractive car, it had to be up their competing with the best in the world in terms of engine performance while still being eco-friendly and have all the technology that others offer. The XC90 not only ticked all those boxes but did it style, finesse all while keeping to that legendary Swedish heritage. Not long ago I got to sample a spin off model from the XC90, a baby version of it if I may call it that, the XC40. Although my time with the car was short, it was my first experience with the new generation Volvo's and it left me flabbergasted as to what it had to offer. 

DESIGN

Looking at it from the outside, one could sit stare at it for hours on end. It's contemporary design is fresh and modern which not only gets heads turning while you drive past them but it can also fit in with modern day architecture so well. It's almost like a showpiece where you can have it parked off in your lounge and it would look like part of the decor. The combination of straight lines, contours and beveled edges really add character to the XC40 while key design elements iconic to Volvo still stand out like the L shaped rear lights and the grille with some new features which will form part of future designs from the brand. I had the R-Design kit on this particular model which is Volvo's sport package for their cars, easy ways to identify this is the large 20" 5 spoke split rims, and the two tone paint work with the roof being finished in black with the rest of the car in white with black accents. The contemporary styling also flows into the cabin with everything looking fresh and modern. One striking thing about the interior is that it was orange in colour, well not all of it, just the lower half which I found quite quirky but it worked! This car is the baby of the crossover line up and it looks to be playful so I'm glad that also transcends into the colours available for it. 

PERFORMANCE

I had the D4 AWD model XC40 which is the only diesel variant available, with the cost of fuel, it would be the preferred engine for the consumer. The power output on the 2 litre motor is quite decent with it delivering 140kW with 190 Bhp and 400Nm of torque waiting to get you off the mark. So as you can imagine the XC40 isn't a slouch and while it might be a bit bulky, navigating it is pretty easy, too easy if you ask me. The first thing you notice on the car is how light the steering is, it's like you get power steering then you get Volvo's super power steering! I could legit use 1 finger to turn it. Handling on the XC40 is exceptional, whether you're going around town or on the open road, the XC40 makes the most of the road in front of it. I even did some light off roading with it, which didn't break a sweat for it, eating up the gravel and leaving a big trail of dust behind. 

COMFORT

Sticking with the awards, Volvo's V90 won the most comfortable seat award recently and I can tell you the XC40 seats and pretty darn comfy as well. While the car is the smallest crossover offered by Vovlo, they do not compromise on comfort. The cabin is spacious for every individual that is in it. The ride quality is pretty great as well, even with the car riding on 20" rims this doesn't influence any cabin noise or compromise the ride comfort. The cabin is completely air-conditioned with dual climate control for the front passengers and the rear having their own vents. the car came with a 600W 14 speaker Harmon Kardon Premium Sound System which made any song sound exceptional in the car. I keep coming back to the design of the car because its a design that works and works well, everything is thought of and functional, that's ultimately what you want in a car interior and full marks to Volvo for getting this right. 

TECHNOLOGY

Where do I start? Lets go with the obvious, the massive screen that sits in the dash, this is the brain of the car. Fully touch screen interactive menu lets you control just about everything in the car. With most of it controlled by this, it uncluttered the rest of the dash. It does seem daunting at first but it can be made more easier with you customizing the screen for your convenience. The big screen comes handy when parking, while it did come with the auto park feature, the XC40 also has 4 cameras around the car to give you a birds eye view of your surroundings when getting in out of tricky spaces. One of the main talking points about the new Volvo's is the Pilot Assist, which is as close to autonomy as you can get. Coupled with the adaptive cruise control, you can set the speed you want to go at and the car will do the driving for you. It monitors the cars around you and is alert to dangers that may spring out. Seeing it in action is quite an experience, having the car take full control and slowing down while maintaining a safe following distance to the car in front is spell binding to say the least. Other key safety teach features include lane keeping aid, run-off mitigation, oncoming lane mitigation, city safety and many others which are too long to list. 

VERDICT

Overall the XC40 exceeds it's reputation in the market and really is one of the better compact SUV's you can buy. The features the car comes with coupled by the brilliant design and technology offered is hard to find another that can come close to match it in terms of pricing. While the model I had does raise a few eyebrows when mentioned the actual cost, you have to understand that all the options were ticked in this spec and if you had to spec a competitor model with the same extras you would be paying a lot more. While Volvo are trying to take some market share from their German competitors, models like the XC40 are not going to do them any harm, with the SA market taking a liking to the XC90 and the S90, future models like the S60 and the new XC60 will only strengthen their cause. This is one brand to be on the look out for going forward, I hope we get some of their Polestar models at some stage too. 

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	2L Four-cylinder turbo charged disel
Gear Box	8 Speed Geartronic Automatic AWD
Power	140kW
Torque	400Nm
0-100km	7.9 seconds
Economy	5.7 L/100km
Price	R 494,400*

*Excluding extras

Pictures by @MVRC1988