Bucket Seat: Changan UNI-S

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

DESIGN

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

PERFORMANCE

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

COMFORT

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

VERDICT

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

SPECIFICATIONS

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

 

Bucket Tech: Samsung Mini LED with Vision AI

 

Samsung South Africa has announced the launch of its new Mini LED M70H and Mini LED M80H televisions, expanding its premium TV1 portfolio with powerful new viewing experiences fit for the modern connected home. Combining stunning Mini LED picture quality with Samsung's latest Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven innovations, the new range represents the next step in the company's vision for more intelligent, personalised and immersive entertainment. With 20 years Global No.1 TV2 , Samsung continues to redefine how people experience content at home. The arrival of the Mini LED M70H and Mini LED M80H reinforces this commitment, bringing cutting-edge display technology and advanced AI capabilities to local consumers while laying the foundation for Samsung's next chapter in television.

Premium Entertainment Powered by Mini LED Technology

The new range delivers exceptional picture performance through Samsung's advanced Mini LED technology, which uses significantly smaller3 LEDs to achieve greater control over brightness and contrast. The result is deeper blacks, brighter highlights, improved detail and enhanced colour accuracy across every scene. Designed for households that demand premium performance, the Mini LED M70H and Mini LED M80H offer a compelling combination of picture quality, AI features and sleek design, making them ideal centrepieces for modern living spaces. Whether streaming blockbuster movies, enjoying live sport, gaming with friends or watching your favourite series, you can expect a more immersive and lifelike entertainment experience that elevates everyday viewing.

The launch of the new Mini LED range reflects Samsung's broader Vision AI strategy, which seeks to transform televisions from display devices into intelligent companions that understand, adapt and personalise experiences for users. Building on the Vision AI roadmap unveiled at CES 2026, Samsung is integrating AI across its television portfolio to create more intuitive interactions, smarter content experiences and enhanced convenience within the connected home.

Mini LED M80H: The Ultimate AI-Powered Football Experience

Leading the new range is the Mini LED M80H, the flagship model designed to showcase Samsung's latest AI-driven entertainment innovations.The M80H features the new AI Football Mode4 (AI Soccer Mode), an artificially intelligent feature developed specifically to enhance football viewing experiences. Using real-time AI analysis, AI Football Mode automatically optimises both picture and sound settings when football content is detected.

This feature intelligently adjusts brightness, contrast and colour to ensure clearer visibility across the pitch while simultaneously remastering audio to recreate the atmosphere and excitement of the stadium. From fast-moving plays and dramatic goals to crowd reactions and commentary, every moment is enhanced to create a more immersive viewing experience.

As football continues to unite fans across South Africa and around the world, AI Football Mode demonstrates how Samsung is using artificial intelligence to make content more engaging, responsive and enjoyable in real time.

Mini LED M70H: Premium Mini LED Performance Within Reach

The Mini LED M70H brings many of the advantages of Samsung's advanced Mini LED technology to consumers seeking an accessible entry point into the premium television category.  Delivering exceptional brightness, sharp detail and immersive picture quality, the M70H offers an outstanding entertainment experience across a wide range of content. Whether enjoying family movie nights, catching up on favourite shows or watching live sports, the M70H provides the performance and reliability consumers have come to expect from Samsung. By making advanced Mini LED technology available to more households, Samsung continues to expand access to premium viewing experiences without compromise.

The introduction of the Mini LED M70H and Mini LED M80H marks another significant milestone in Samsung's ongoing television innovation journey. The new range reflects Samsung's vision for a future where televisions do more than simply display content, but actively enhance, personalise and enrich every viewing experience

Bucket Seat: Volkswagen Golf Mk 8.5 GTI

The Volkswagen Golf GTI is more than just another hot hatch, especially here in South Africa. Over the years, the GTI has developed an almost cult-like following, becoming a legend on our streets and a car that remains instantly recognisable wherever it goes. With the arrival of the Golf Mk 8.5 GTI, Volkswagen hasn’t tried to reinvent the formula. Instead, it has taken what was already a very capable package and refined it with sharper styling, more power and improved technology.

DESIGN

At first glance, the changes to the Golf Mk 8.5 GTI may appear subtle, but spend some time looking at it and the enhancements become more noticeable. Volkswagen has sharpened up the design, giving the GTI a sleeker and slightly more aggressive appearance while still retaining the familiar Golf silhouette that has made the car so iconic. One of the standout additions is the new set of 19-inch Queenstown alloy wheels, which suit the character of the GTI perfectly. They give the car a more purposeful stance and add a premium edge to the overall design. The updated LED Matrix headlights also contribute to the sharper appearance, while the illuminated Volkswagen emblem at the front is a small but distinctive touch that gives the Mk 8.5 a more modern identity, particularly at night. I’ve always liked the fact that the GTI doesn’t need oversized wings, excessive vents or dramatic styling to make its presence known. The red GTI detailing, sporty bumpers and signature design elements are enough to distinguish it from the regular Golf, while still allowing it to retain that understated sophistication the GTI has always been known for. Overall, the design changes may not be revolutionary, but they work. The Golf Mk 8.5 GTI looks sharper, sleeker and more modern without losing the familiar character that has made the GTI so popular.

PERFORMANCE

This is where the biggest improvement can be felt. Volkswagen has increased the output of the familiar 2.0-litre turbocharged engine to 195 kW, while torque remains at a healthy 370 Nm. On paper, the increase in power may not seem dramatic, but behind the wheel, the Mk 8.5 GTI feels noticeably stronger and more eager to perform. Acceleration is quick and effortless, with plenty of torque available when you need it. Whether pulling away from a traffic light, overtaking on the highway or enjoying a more spirited drive on an open road, the GTI delivers its performance in a way that feels both accessible and usable. That has always been one of the strengths of the GTI: it is fast enough to be exciting without becoming difficult to live with every day. The handling also feels improved. The car feels more planted and grounded, particularly at higher speeds, giving you greater confidence behind the wheel. There is a sense of stability that makes the GTI feel incredibly composed, while still retaining the agility and responsiveness expected from a hot hatch. The steering is precise, the chassis feels well balanced and the car changes direction with confidence. It is equally comfortable cruising on the highway as it is attacking a series of corners. The GTI has always been about finding the balance between performance and everyday usability, and the Mk 8.5 continues to get that formula right.

COMFORT

Performance may be a major reason why people buy a GTI, but the Mk 8.5 also proves that a hot hatch doesn’t have to compromise on comfort. The sports seats provide excellent support and are comfortable enough for longer journeys, with both heating and cooling adding a level of luxury that makes a noticeable difference in everyday driving. In South Africa, especially during our warmer summer months, ventilated seats are certainly a feature that will be appreciated. The cabin has also received an important technology upgrade with a new,12.9-inch infotainment display, much better than the MK8 which screen was smaller than my mobile phone! The system gives the interior a more modern feel and includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making smartphone connectivity simple and convenient. The larger screen is clearer and easier to use, addressing one of the areas where the previous Golf 8 could sometimes feel overly dependent on touch controls. A sunroof is also standard, adding to the premium feel of the cabin and making the interior feel lighter and more spacious. Combined with the quality of the materials, ambient lighting and familiar GTI touches throughout the cabin, it creates an environment that feels sporty without sacrificing refinement. There is also an impressive amount of technology and safety equipment on offer. Modern driver-assistance systems help make daily driving easier and safer, while features such as the LED Matrix lighting improve visibility at night. The GTI manages to combine performance, comfort, connectivity and safety into one very complete package. What I particularly like about the Golf GTI is that it remains a car you can genuinely use every day. It is comfortable in traffic, practical enough for everyday life and refined on longer journeys, but the moment the road opens up, it reminds you that you are driving something special.

VERDICT

In South Africa, the Volkswagen Golf GTI has a reputation that few other cars can match. It has become more than just a performance hatchback; it is part of our motoring culture. From one generation to the next, the GTI has remained a favourite among enthusiasts, and for many South Africans, it is still the ultimate combination of performance, practicality and street presence. The Golf Mk 8.5 GTI doesn’t dramatically change the formula, and it doesn’t need to. Instead, Volkswagen has refined it. The subtle styling enhancements make it look sharper and more modern, the increase to 195 kW gives it stronger performance, the handling feels more composed and the upgraded interior technology makes it a better car to live with every day. There are faster cars and there are certainly more dramatic-looking performance cars, but few manage to combine everything quite as well as the GTI. It can be your comfortable daily driver during the week and still provide plenty of excitement when the opportunity arises. For South Africans who have grown up admiring the GTI, the Mk 8.5 continues the legacy of a nameplate that has become a legend on our streets. It is more powerful, more refined and more technologically advanced, but importantly, it still feels like a GTI. And perhaps that is the greatest compliment you can give it. The Golf Mk 8.5 GTI has evolved, but it hasn’t forgotten what made South Africa fall in love with those three letters in the first place: GTI.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	2.0L Turbo Petrol
Gear Box	7-Speed DSG
Power	195kW
Torque	370Nm
0-100km/h	5.9 seconds
Price	R908,000

 

Bucket Seat: Suzuki Across GLX

I got to spend some time in two models of the Suzuki Across within a month of each other, the GL and the GLX models and while there are primarily the same car the GLX is the range topping model for a reason. As mentioned in my review of the GL, it's a car that Suzuki needed to show the world they can make a premium level car and not just budget friendly models that rely more on price point than actual comfort and practicality. I spent a week with the Across GLX and share my thoughts in this post. 

DESIGN

Suzuki has never really been known for producing bold, premium-looking SUVs, but the new Across GLX Mild Hybrid changes that perception almost immediately. It's a design that feels like a significant step in the right direction for the brand. The front end is sharp and purposeful, with an imposing grille and sleek LED lighting giving it a far more upmarket appearance than we've come to expect from Suzuki. It strikes a balance between elegance and ruggedness without trying too hard, resulting in an SUV that looks mature and sophisticated. The proportions are well judged, the body lines are clean, and overall it has a confident road presence that makes it stand out in a crowded segment. It's refreshing to see Suzuki moving towards a more premium design language while still maintaining the practicality the brand is known for.

PERFORMANCE

Powering the Across GLX is Suzuki's 1.5-litre mild hybrid powertrain, and for everyday driving it delivers exactly what most South African buyers are looking for. Performance is smooth, predictable and more than adequate for commuting, school runs and long-distance cruising. The electric assistance helps the engine feel responsive when pulling away from traffic lights while also contributing to impressive fuel economy, making it an attractive option as fuel prices continue to fluctuate. The only area that doesn't quite impress is the gearbox. While it performs its duties competently, it can occasionally feel hesitant and lacks the refinement offered by some rivals. That said, once you're accustomed to its characteristics, it becomes easy to live with and doesn't detract significantly from the overall driving experience. For buyers prioritising efficiency, reliability and low running costs over outright performance, the Across delivers a well-rounded package.

COMFORT

Without question, this is one of the most comfortable Suzukis I've driven. The cabin immediately gives the impression that Suzuki has invested more attention into quality, with soft-touch materials, attractive textures and a layout that feels modern and well thought out. The seats provide excellent support whether you're navigating city traffic or spending hours on the highway, while passenger space in both rows is generous enough for family duties. The technology is another standout feature. The infotainment system is intuitive, smartphone connectivity works seamlessly, and features such as the excellent 360-degree camera make manoeuvring in tight parking spaces incredibly easy. It's one of those features you quickly become accustomed to and wonder how you managed without it. Combined with the quiet cabin and refined ride quality, the Across GLX genuinely feels like it belongs a class above many of Suzuki's previous offerings.

VERDICT

The Suzuki Across GLX Mild Hybrid represents a noticeable evolution for the brand. It looks more premium than ever before, offers excellent comfort, delivers impressive fuel economy and comes equipped with technology that buyers increasingly expect in this segment. While the gearbox could benefit from further refinement, it's a relatively small compromise in what is otherwise a very capable family SUV. The biggest talking point for South African buyers will undoubtedly be the pricing. The Across enters a fiercely competitive market filled with established rivals that offer strong value propositions, and that means Suzuki will need to convince buyers that its improved quality and generous specification justify the asking price. Even so, if you're looking for a comfortable, efficient and well-equipped SUV from a brand with an excellent reputation for reliability and affordability, the Across GLX deserves to be on your shortlist. It proves that Suzuki is no longer content with simply competing on value alone it now has the confidence to compete on quality, refinement and overall ownership experience as well.

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	R464,900.00

 

Bucket Seat: Suzuki Grand Vitara GLX

Anyone who has been keeping an eye on the NAAMSA monthly sales figures would have noticed that Suzuki sales has been surged over the last year and with good reason too. The Swift remains one of the most reliable and affordable budget friendly options when it comes to an entry level hatch back, its solid, it's comfortable and most importantly, its light on fuel. The rest of their line-up has also been picking up, with the likes of the Jimny being a firm favourite for many. With their JV with Toyota which see's a lot of their vehicles wear the Toyota badge, it has done them some harm with the consumer opting to go for the bigger Japanese name rather than the Suzuki, when the new shape Grand Vitara was first launch, Suzuki SA thought they'd hold the trump card by only offering Toyota SA to sell the 1.5L naturally aspirated engine while they had exclusivity over the 1.5L Hybrid, unfortunately for Suzuki, the price of this Hybrid model saw them sitting with stock as many opted for the Toyota version or if they wanted a Hybrid, they went and bought the Corolla Cross XS which was not a lot more than the Grand Vitara. After burning their fingers, Suzuki decided to can the Hybrid and bring their 1.5L N/A model to compete directly with the Toyota Urban Cruise but offering a bit more. I spent some time with this model and here are my thoughts.

DESIGN

The Suzuki Grand Vitara doesn’t scream for attention but it doesn’t need to. It’s one of those SUVs that grows on you the more you look at it. Up front, you’ve got a bold, upright stance with a layered grille and sharp LED lighting that gives it a modern edge, while the clamshell bonnet and squared-off proportions subtly nod to its heritage. Around the back, the clean surfacing and light bar keep things contemporary without overcomplicating the design. It’s not flashy like some of the Korean alternatives, but there’s an honesty to it that works. Whether you’re pulling up in Sandton or heading out onto a gravel road, it looks perfectly at home in the South African landscape. The little details they add to the exterior of the car make the Grand Vitara stand out more than the Urban Cruiser, the chrome accents, LED lighting and panoramic sunroof give the Suzuki so much more character. 

PERFORMANCE

Under the bonnet, the Grand Vitara is powered by a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, and you feel exactly what that suggests. Around town, it’s smooth and easy-going, making it perfectly suited to daily commuting and stop-start traffic. It doesn’t feel strained in normal driving, and it delivers power in a predictable, linear way. However, the moment you push it whether it’s overtaking on the highway or tackling a steep incline with passengers it starts to feel a bit out of its depth. The 4-speed automatic gearbox adds to that feeling, as it’s more about reliability than responsiveness, and can come across as slightly dated compared to newer transmissions. That said, the bigger picture tells a different story. Fuel consumption is impressively low, which is a major advantage given South Africa’s fuel prices, and the mild-hybrid system helps smooth out low-speed driving while improving efficiency even further. It’s not built to excite, but it is built to make financial sense.

COMFORT

This is where the Grand Vitara really comes into its own. The ride quality is genuinely impressive, soaking up bumps, potholes, and uneven road surfaces with a level of composure that feels tailor-made for South African conditions. It’s the kind of car that makes long-distance driving feel effortless rather than tiring. The cabin is well insulated, keeping road and wind noise to a minimum, which adds to that relaxed driving experience. Inside, there’s enough space for five adults to sit comfortably without feeling cramped, and while the boot isn’t the biggest in the segment, it’s practical enough for everyday use. The seats are supportive and comfortable, making it a great companion for both daily commutes and longer road trips. It’s not trying to be luxurious, but it gets the fundamentals of comfort absolutely right.

TECHNOLOGY

Suzuki has equipped the Grand Vitara with all the essentials you’d expect from a modern SUV, without going overboard. The infotainment system is easy to use and integrates seamlessly with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while features like wireless charging, keyless entry, and a reverse camera add everyday convenience. Everything works as it should, and that’s really the point there’s no unnecessary complexity or gimmicks. On the safety side, it’s well covered with multiple airbags, stability control, and driver assistance features that give you peace of mind on the road. It may not have the cutting-edge tech you’d find in more premium offerings, but it delivers where it counts for the average South African driver.

VERDICT

The Suzuki Grand Vitara isn’t trying to be the fastest, the flashiest, or the most high-tech SUV in its class, and that’s actually its biggest strength. It focuses on what really matters in South Africa, like fuel efficiency, comfort on less-than-perfect roads, reliability, and overall affordability. If you’re looking for something thrilling, this isn’t it. But if you want a dependable, comfortable, and cost-effective SUV that fits seamlessly into everyday life, it makes a very compelling case for itself. It’s not the car you show off about at a braai, but it’s the one that quietly proves its worth every single day.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	1.5-liter Naturally Aspirated
Gear Box	4-Speed Automatic
Power	77kW
Torque	138Nm
Fuel Economy	5.6L per 100km
Price	R453,900.00