Limited number Mercedes-Benz Maybach EQS allocated to South Africa

Limited numbers of the new ultra-luxurious Mercedes-Benz Maybach EQS have been allocated to South Africa – with no price tag announced just yet – and the car takes electric motoring to its highest reach yet.

When it comes to luxury vehicles, Mercedes-Benz has always been at the forefront of innovation and sophistication. The Maybach EQS is no exception, offering a unique blend of cutting-edge technology, unparalleled comfort and exquisite craftsmanship.

The exterior design shows off the chrome accents and iconic brand emblem that sits enthroned on the hood, standing out from the black panel with vertical, chrome-plated trim strips. The large black panel is smooth closed for the first time and the element for the radar sensors is fully integrated and no longer visible.

Mercedes-Benz development succeeded in using the material indium, which is permeable to radar beams, in the entire panel area. The wafer-thin, shiny silver material is covered with a black lacquer finish. This creates a unique high-gloss black appearance with an extraordinary depth effect.

Stepping into the Mercedes-Benz Maybach EQS is akin to entering a realm of unrivalled luxury. The meticulous attention to detail is evident in every stitch of the lush, premium upholstery and in the polished finish of each surface. The cabin, a sanctuary of comfort, is designed with the discerning passenger in mind, offering expansive space and ergonomically designed seats that provide both support and unparalleled comfort during travel.

“The Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV is our first all-electric, full-size luxury SUV and a testament to our vision. The interior is an emotional and stylish statement, a blend of luxury and technology in the most harmonious sense. The immense power offered by the latest electric technology ensures an effortless driving experience.

Together with the innovative, progressive SUV proportions, we are completely redefining the SUV luxury of the future not just globally but locally as well,” says Mark Raine Co-CEO Mercedes-Benz South Africa.

The central display starts with the familiar home screen and the so-called 'zero layer’. In this basic setting, the navigation map dominates. The driver can carry out 80% of the most common interactions directly without changing the application. The system reacts situationally and is personalised with intelligent suggestions and forward-looking offers.

The rear passengers experience the same extensive range of infotainment and comfort features with two 11,6-inch displays on the backrests of the front seats. With the standard MBUX High-End Rear Seat Entertainment, content can be shared quickly and easily on the various displays. It is also possible to select and modify the navigation destinations from the rear seats. The standard equipment also includes the MBUX rear tablet, which can also be used outside the vehicle, and the MBUX Interior Assist.

Ambient lighting casts a gentle glow, allowing passengers to customise their environment to suit their mood or preferences, further enhancing the sensory experience. Additionally, the vehicle's noise insulation techniques create a serene, whisper-quiet interior, making it the perfect retreat from the bustling world outside.

Craftsmanship in the Maybach EQS is not merely about luxury, but about creating an intimate, personalised space that speaks volumes of its dedication to excellence and passenger comfort.

Beyond safety, the EQS features an advanced air filtration system, ensuring the cabin air remains pure and refreshing, irrespective of external conditions. The vehicle's commitment to sustainability is further underscored by its energy-efficient components and regenerative braking system, which optimises battery life and extends range.

The battery has a usable 118 kWh with a stated range of 490 kilometres.

https://bit.ly/4drqTpW

Colin-on-Cars - Lexus goes rock 'n roll

Fast cars and rock ‘n roll have always been synonymous with each other with the ‘go-to’ guitar of the genre, the Fender Stratocaster, having been responsible for belting out many a car-related tune over the years – ‘Little Red Corvette’ and ‘Mustang Sally’ among them.

Now, Fender Musical Instruments Corporation’s (FMIC) Fender Custom Shop (FCS) has announced the launch of a limited-edition Fender Lexus LC Stratocaster, the newest custom-built piece from Principal Master Builder, Ron Thorn – only 100 of which will be released globally.

“Collaborating with Lexus to conceptualise, design and build the Fender® Lexus LC Stratocaster has been an incredible ride,” said Mike Lewis, Vice President of Product Development, Fender Custom Shop. “The process our team took to design this Strat has certainly been a labour of love, as well as a source of inspiration and excitement around the shop. Our team is constantly building innovative products and this launch is another great representation of craftsmanship and creativity at Fender.”

The Stratocaster guitar includes an omnidirectional Structural Blue finish, a spectral range that produces light metallic blue to deep midnight blue that was originally inspired by the Morpho butterfly.

The paint on the Stratocaster guitar is the same paint that was used on the Lexus LC 500 coupé and convertible Inspiration Series, of which only a limited number of units were produced for many markets- including South Africa a couple of years ago. 

Structural blue paint brings to life the rich curvature of the LC 500 body, and now the guitar body. The paint does not contain any blue material - it looks blue only because of the interference of light. Layers of colourless materials come together to generate the ultimate colour, hence the name ‘structural’.

The neck is fashioned from 3A flame maple and finished in high-gloss urethane, imparting a hint of Fender wood working tradition in contrast with the instrument’s other advanced visual elements. The fingerboard is made of deep-blue polished Richlite, a composite material known for its tonal properties, structural stability, and resistance to wear and moisture, and used by the Fender Custom Shop for the first time.

The fingerboard has a flatter 12-inch radius and 22 medium-jumbo stainless-steel frets. On darkened stages, the white Luminlay fingerboard inlays glow in vivid blue.

To top it off, the headstock face is finished in Structural Blue with a chrome Fender logo while the custom case is wrapped in carbon fibre textured vinyl, with black leather ends and the Lexus logo embroidered inside the lid.

“Fender is a legendary brand that has made an indelible mark in the world of music.  As such, Lexus is honoured to team with them in the development of this unique guitar that highlights our brand’s unique design cues and Structural Blue paint technology,” says Brian Bolain, General Manager of Lexus International. “With such a partnership, our hope is to raise the awareness of the elevated level of craft shared by the Fender Custom Shop and Lexus as both strive to create a more personal experience for their customers.” 

https://bit.ly/3moKD5w

Colin-on-Cars - BAIC TEASES THE FUTURE WITH COOL B40 PLUS 4×4

B40 Plus is a four by four that wears its Made in China stamp with pride

There is always that moment when playing with a new four-by-four. The one that happens in the middle of a challenging and critical obstacle. When said 4×4 transitions from ‘it might make it’ to ‘no problem’ and the driver comfort that comes with the inspired confidence.

SAY IT ‘BIKE’

The newly launched BAIC (pronounce it ‘Bike’) B40 Plus sits in that realm. It’s a real off-roader. Built and designed for fun times in a mix of modern, high-tech with some good old school design ideas.

Now BAIC has been an active player in the local market since 2016. Did you know that it even has its own assembly facility in Coega in the Eastern Cape? Where it already builds semi knocked down versions of the passenger cars it markets?

So, while the B40 Plus is fully imported from China, the SA plant is slowly ramping up to its full production capacity of 50,000 vehicles with completely knocked down assembly coming during the next year too. From when it will also supply both left and right-hand drive cars to the Sub-Saharan market.

BAIC IS ALREADY WELL ESTABLISHED IN SA

BAIC already also has eight fully operational dealers around the country with a number of contract service centres over and above. See, while that’s still a small footprint in the local market, BAIC is happy to allow demand from car buyers to dictate the pace of its dealer network expansion.

“BAIC SA is proud to add the B40 Plus to the model line-up,” BAIC SA marketing suit Mr Hu admitted. “We believe this vehicle will be well received by the market and will find quite a following amongst consumers that want to stand out in a crowd.

“BAIC is committed to the people of South Africa. “We are actively working to improve the standard of the local automotive manufacturing industry and creating more local employment opportunities. Our goal is to provide South Africans with a wide range of quality products to suit various lifestyles and needs.”

DON’T COMPARE IT TO A JEEP!

It is impossible not to seek comparisons between the B40 and the Jeep Wrangler – they look similar and, indeed, both have their roots in the military with the original B40 having been designed and assembled specifically for the Chinese army.

The bold and imposing B40 Plus however goes its own way with striking and iconic Great Wall inspired five-slot grill and imposing DRL headlights. It has aggressive bumpers and wheel arches and rear fog lamps. And a vertical windshield, large wing mirrors and a high seating position for great visibility.

B40 Plus has a removable roof with individual panels over the driver, passenger and over the rear passengers. Each can be removed singly or together. They clip into a built-in high plate and pipe roll cage designed to safely withstand a 50-metre hillside roll.

WELL KITTED CABIN

A modern sleek and well-appointed SUV-like colour-coded cabin has dual climate control, 6-speaker audio, chrome accents and reclining rear seats. Add a reversing camera, park distance control and a customisable multi-information display. Latest sound deadening tech reduces weight and vehicle mass.

That display packs in an altimeter, pitch and yaw angles, inclinometer and other settings and the reverse camera has various angle choices. This modern looking dash is however plasticky. The retro passenger grab strap, and door opening chain restraints are cute.

The B40 Plus is available in either a 160 kW 2-litre petrol turbo or a 110 kW 350 Nm 2-litre turbodiesel. The petrol auto came out top on the off road course. The diesel only comes in six-speed manual, but the clutch is quite heavy and the gearbox a tad notchy. Old school, if you prefer.

B40 PLUS PACKS ALL THE FOUR BY FOUR KIT

Its selectable 4×4 system has mechanical central transfer case and rear differential. There’s standard anti-lock EBD braking and an electronic parking brake. Some models add ESP, Emergency Brake Assist, Traction, Hill Ascent Control and Hill Descent Control.

B40 Plus gets double wishbone coil spring independent front and 5-link coil spring live axle rear suspension. Minimal overhangs and 210 mm ground makes for an approach angle of 37 degrees, departure angle of 31 degrees and 23 degree ramp-over angle.

“The B40 Plus is more than capable off-road,” BAIC marketing man Basil Costa pointed out. “Our rigorous ‘5 high and 1 drought’ test included high temperature, high altitude, high humidity, high cold, high salt content and of course, a drought.

B40 PLUS IS STRINGENTLY TESTED TOO

“That stringent testing process ensures adaptability to extreme conditions that is 10% higher than regular passenger vehicles.”

B40 Plus comes in at R549K for the Diesel. The range includes the Petrol and City Hunter Diesel and Petrols up to R629K Champion Petrol. They’re backed by a 5-year/120 000 km warranty and service plans are available. Service intervals are 15 000 km 12 months for both Petrol and Diesel models.

All in all we enjoyed our introduction to the BAIC B40 Plus. This is one time where the ‘Made in China’ stamp can be worn with some pride. And it’s a little peek into the next Chinese auto attack in SA. Bring it on! 

https://bit.ly/30kxl1r

Toyota adds hybrid Corolla and RAV4 to local line up 

Ahead of the launch of the Toyota Corolla Cross that will become the first hybrid model to be manufactured in South Africa, Toyota South Africa is increasing its options with the introduction of the Corolla Hybrid and RAV4 Hybrid. 

In the African context, hybrid is the way to go as a method of ‘greening’ the motoring pasture ahead of a comprehensive roll-out of an electric vehicle charging infrastructure – that also would be dependant on a stable power supply from Eskom. 

In fleet management terms, hybrid makes a strong case considering the wildly escalating price of fuel with potential savings of hundreds of thousands of Rand for larger fleets – although this is somewhat mitigated by the (still way too high) pricing on hybrid derivatives. 

This powertrain technology debuted in 1997 in the Toyota Prius. While the Prius has undoubtedly been the poster child for Hybrid, Toyota has recognised the need to expand this new energy technology to other mainstream model ranges - in pursuit of greater Hybrid adoption and wider market appeal.

 

The Corolla Hybrid

Based on the 11th-generation Corolla sedan, the Corolla Hybrid features Toyota's latest generation 2ZR-FXE engine (shared with the Prius). This 1,8-litre, four-cylinder mill employs Atkinson-cycle technology to deliver a supplementary 53 kW and 163 Nm (at full capacity) – to boost overall system output to 90 kW. 

The Hybrid powertrain also employs a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) gearbox - which seamlessly integrates the two drive sources, feeding power to the front wheels. Toyota's latest generation hybrid models utilise a 'starting reduction gear' to improve acceleration from standstill and provide a more direct-drive feeling when taking off. Drivers thus get the comfort and convenience of a 'two-pedal' arrangement while not sacrificing on driveability, performance or fuel economy.   

The Corolla Hybrid is offered in the Xs spec level. This mid-tier grade combines all the key comfort and convenience features while keeping with the Hybrid's more pragmatic bias. 

 

Standard specification includes LED head and taillamps with Daytime Running Lights (DRL) and automatic control, keyless entry, power-adjustable and heated side mirrors and full colour coding. Other cabin niceties Include cruise control, climate control, a reverse camera, power windows all-round, multi-Information display (MID) and three-spoke leather steering wheel with steering switches.  

The audio system comprises a touchscreen audio with Bluetooth, USB and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto functionality, playing through six speakers.  

The Corolla Hybrid rides on bespoke 15-inch alloy wheels, shod with energy-saving 195-65-R15 tyres which boast a low coefficient of friction. 

The Corolla Hybrid offers a claimed average fuel consumption figure of 3,5 l/100 km. CO2 emissions are equally low, registering 81 g/km. Combined with a 43-litre fuel tank, the Corolla Hybrid has a theoretical range of over 1 200 km on a single tank.  

Corolla Xs CVT Hybrid - R 419 900  

A six-services or 90 000 km service plan is standard with service Intervals pegged at 15 000 km / 12- months. Toyota's standard 3-year/100 000 km warranty is included as is an 8-year / 195 000 km Hybrid battery warranty.

 

The RAV4 Hybrid

Based on Toyota's angular 5th-generation sport utility, the RAV4 Hybrid combines a 2,5-litre Hybrid powertrain with the TNGA-based 5-seater SUV. The A25A-FXS engine is shared with other global Toyota and Lexus stablemates, such as the Lexus ES and NX300h and the Camry Hybrid. 

It boasts many of the same technologies shared by the Corolla Hybrid, in a larger displacement four[1]cylinder offering. Featuring an 'undersquare' design with Toyota D-4S port and direct-injection, the Atkinson cycle engine generates 131 kW and 221 Nm in 'ICE' state.

The electric motor punches out 88 kW and 202 Nm (at maximum state of charge) to deliver a total system output of 160 kW. Power is transmitted to the front wheels via a CVT transmission. 

The fuel consumption index is listed at 4,7 l/100 km with CO2 emissions registering 107 g/km.

 

The RAV4 Hybrid is offered in tweaked GX trim  and boasts LED head and tail lamps complete with DRL's up front, rain-sensing wipers, heated and power-operated side mirrors and keyless entry. 

Occupants are catered for with dual-zone climate control, three 12-volt power outlets and multiple cupholders. Driver convenience is boosted by the fitment of Cruise Control, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, multi-information display and a tilt & telescopic steering wheel finished in leather and incorporating steering switches.   

The infotainment system centres around Toyota's touchscreen interface, delivering sound output through six speakers while interfacing via 3 x USB inputs, Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto mediums. 

Driver support systems include Park Distance Control (PDC), anti-lock braking, EBD, VSC, Trailer Sway Control (TSC), Hill Assist Control (HAC) and Drive Mode Select (Eco/Normal/Power). A full complement of crash bags is present, including side and curtain variants, as well as an anti-theft system.

 

The RAV4 Hybrid rides on 17-inch alloy wheels with 225-65-R17 rubber joined by a full-size spare wheel. Roof rails, a rear spoiler, blue Toyota insignia, Hybrid badging and mud guards also form part of the standard repertoire. 

RAV4 GX Hybrid CVT - R 555 300 

A six-services or 90 000 km service plan is standard with service Intervals pegged at 15 000 km / 12- months. Toyota's standard 3-year/100 000 km warranty is included with an 8-year / 195 000 km Hybrid battery warranty.

More power and new looks for Porsche Macan 

Porsche has released the much updated Macan that gains performance along with a tweaked design and sport-air suspension as standard on the GTS. 

As the sporty flagship of the SUV line-up, the Macan GTS sits at the top of the range. Its 2,9-litre V6 biturbo engine now delivers 324 kW – an increase of 44 kW –  and it completes the 0 to 100 km/h sprint in 4,3 seconds when fitted with the Sport Chrono package and reaches a top speed of 272 km/h. 

The Macan S is now also equipped with a 2,9-litre V6 biturbo engine that produces 20 kW more power than before, with 280 kW. This propels the vehicle from a standstill to 100 km/h in 4,6 seconds while it has a top speed of up to 259 km/h.

 

A newly developed, turbo-charged four-cylinder engine with 195 kW serves as the entry point to the Macan world. It completes the standard 0 to 100 km/h sprint in 6,2 seconds and reaches a top speed of 232 km/h. 

All engines are coupled to the seven-speed Porsche dual-clutch transmission (PDK) and the Porsche Traction Management (PTM) all-wheel-drive system.

The new Macan models also offer a wide suspension bandwidth, balancing suspension comfort and sports car performance. The chassis has been optimised further and the Macan now responds more directly to the driving situation and road conditions, giving the driver even better feedback via the steering wheel. 

For this purpose, elements such as the damper characteristics of the Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) have been re-adapted specifically for this model. It actively and continuously regulates the damping force for each individual wheel. PASM is available as an option for the Macan and is standard for the S and GTS models.

On the Macan GTS with sport air suspension the body is lower by 10 millimetres and the dynamic benefits mean the suspension is 10% more rigid on the front axle and 15%t firmer on the rear axle compared with its predecessor.

 It has a redesigned nose with an inlay in the exterior colour, while on the new GTS, the centre of the nose section as well as other elements are finished in black. The rear is now rounded off towards the road by a diffuser. Here and at the front end it features a new 3D structure, which is also optionally available for the car's sideblades. The LED headlights with the Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS) and Sport Design exterior mirrors are now standard on all models.

The new Porsche Macan offers a substantially enhanced interior and its new operating concept, which makes use of touch surfaces instead of tactile buttons, brings a clear structure to the cockpit. A new, shorter selector lever sits in the centre of the control module. 

The analogue clock at the top of the dashboard is now also standard equipment.

 

The Macan continues to offer many online functions and services as standard. These can be controlled via the 10,9-inch full HD touch display of the Porsche Communication Management or by means of voice commands. 

The Macan adopts the new multifunction and GT Sport steering wheels from the 911.

Besides the dynamic benefits and black highlights on the exterior, the GTS Sport package available only for the top model also contains specific and exclusive equipment for the interior. This includes 18-way sport seats, the Carbon interior package, Race-Tex upholstery with extended leather elements, various items with contrast stitching and GTS lettering in Python Green.

The Macan, which has seen 600 000 deliveries worldwide since its market launch in 2014, has a special role at Porsche: around 80% of all Macan buyers are new Porsche customers. In addition, the proportion of women buying the Macan has risen consistently in recent years and is the highest across all Porsche product lines.

 Six variants for all-new Land Rover Discovery

The new Land Rover Discovery debuts in South Africa with six variants in the line up along with exterior, interior and technology updates. 

The new Discovery exterior has evolved with new signature LED headlights and a daytime running light signature set lower into the units. Animated sweeping front and rear indicators now provide heightened visual presence while body-colour front fender vents accentuate the premium SUV’s waistline. 

A revised front bumper now features a wider body-coloured graphic and at the rear, a new Gloss Black panel with the trademark Discovery script is positioned between the tail lights. 

 The R-Dynamic model has its own design elements, including Gloss Black and Shadow Atlas exterior accents on the outside and two-tone leather and contrast seat stitching on the inside. 

R-Dynamic models also include Premium LED headlights, which produce a colour of light that is closer to daylight and driving at night or in poor visibility is made easier by Auto High Beam Assist (AHBA) which automatically switches on and headlights and dip for oncoming traffic. 

An optional hands-free tailgate can detect the wave of a foot beneath the rear bumper to open the boot while the Powered Inner Tailgate restrains loose items in the 2 485-litre load space and doubles as a handy bench. Even with seven seats in use, the boot provides 258 litres of luggage space and all occupants have somewhere to charge electronic devices. 

Intelligent Seat Fold technology allows customers to configure the seating layout using the central touchscreen, while remote app technology lets customers keep tabs on the fuel status and location of their vehicle and even unlock and lock the doors. 

In the back, the second-row seats have been redesigned for enhanced comfort while improved lateral support, longer thicker cushions and careful seat profiling contribute to greater under-thigh support and improved posture for all occupants.

 

Land Rover’s new second-generation Activity Key is also available and features touchscreen controls, a digital watch and can lock, unlock and start the vehicle as an addition to the conventional fob. 

A completely redesigned centre console houses a 48% larger 11,4-inch, full HD touchscreen and, with a simplified menu structure, the new Pivi Pro infotainment system provides immediate responses – even when starting the vehicle for the first time. Its built-in back-up battery means navigation initialisation takes just seconds, while the logical menus allow the most commonly used functions to be accessed directly from the customisable home screen, to reduce driver distraction. 

 

A new-look four-spoke steering wheel features hidden-until-lit switches and metal gearshift paddles while a tactile new gear selector provides instinctive control of the powertrain.  

Connectivity is provided by dual-sim technology, with two LTE modems enabling the system to carry out multiple functions at the same time – such as streaming media and downloading Software-Over-The-Air (SOTA) updates. Land Rover’s SOTA technology allows owners to update as many as 44 individual electronic modules, without having to visit a dealer. 

In combination with the 12,3-inch Interactive Driver Display, new Discovery provides high-definition 3D mapping within the instrumentation, leaving the central touchscreen free to control other applications. The high-resolution digital instruments can be configured to show a pair of conventional dials, full-screen 3D navigation guidance or a combination of the two, allowing drivers to customise the view to suit their preference. 

Customers also have the option of a full-colour Head-Up Display, putting high-resolution driving information directly into the driver’s eyeline, removing the need to look away from the road ahead.  

Smartphone integration is also simple, thanks to standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while advanced Bluetooth technology can connect two smartphones simultaneously. Wireless charging with signal boosting technology is available as an option across the range.

Using the onboard 4G Wi-Fi hotspot, which is capable of linking up to eight devices, rear passengers can be entertained on even the longest journeys.  

Standard air suspension provides ride comfort in all environments and features automatic speed lowering to improve aerodynamic efficiency and enhance economy when cruising on motorways. 

Adaptive Dynamics damper technology – fitted to all models – monitors vehicle movements up to 500 times a second, reacting to driver or road inputs almost instantaneously for greater body control, ensuring a composed, flat ride.  

With Terrain Response 2 technology, new Discovery is always automatically primed to suit the driving conditions while the new Wade Mode optimises the vehicle for deep water fording – even applying the brakes automatically when the driver disengages Wade Mode, to restore full performance from the first application of the brakes. 

 

New Discovery also benefits from ClearSight Ground View technology, providing drivers with a view of the obscured ground directly beneath the front of the vehicle using the central touchscreen and a combination of forward-facing cameras. 

Two new 3,0-litre straight-six Ingenium engines, both petrol and diesel, are introduced with the petrol version featuring 48V Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle (MHEV) technology for enhanced efficiency, performance and smoothness. 

This P360 powertrain offers outputs of 265 kW and 500 Nm, and provides a 0-100 km/h time of 6,7 seconds. The new D300 six-cylinder Ingenium diesel features lightweight aluminium construction and replaces the previous SD4 and SDV6 diesels. With outputs of 221 kW and 650 Nm, the D300 can accelerate to 100 km/h in 6,8 seconds. 

Prices:

Discovery D300 S                                R1,452,700

Discovery D300 SE R-Dynamic            R1,561,200

Discovery D300 HSE R-Dynamic         R1,675,900

Discovery P360 S                                   R1,487,600

Discovery P360 SE R-Dynamic             R1,596,100

Discovery P360 HSE R-Dynamic          R1,710,900

* Prices include VAT but exclude CO2 tax

 Mazda BT50 launch confirmed

The new Mazda BT50 bakkie – the third generation – is due for launch locally in the middle of next month and this iteration has been redesigned from the ground up. 

As an evolution of Mazda’s Kodo (Soul of Motion) design, it is immediately evident right from the front of the vehicle with the prominent front grille, and the 3-dimensional signature wing that extends out towards the side. 

The design of the headlights is distinct and sharp, taking in cues from Mazda’s SUV range. The Mazda BT-50 isn't all about utility, but bold evolution, designed with the goal of being a vehicle that customers can take pride in owning. 

The interior cabin space has been carefully crafted to express Mazda’s commitment to human centric design so everything from dashboard, steering wheel, seats and centre console has been redesigned to ensure drivers feel connected to their vehicle and as comfortable as they can be. 

It is a refined and smooth interior that aims for a level of comfort on par with a luxury SUV, by combining sleek and modern elegance with strong functionality. 

As with all Mazda models, the BT-50 comes standard with a generous level of features, including MZD Connect Infotainment System with a 7-inch or 9-inch display screen, Apple Carplay and Android Auto, Reverse camera, Parking sensors, LED headlamps, Hill Launch Assist, Hill Descent Control, Trailer Sway Mitigation, seven crash bags and Cruise Control. 

The model line-up consists of three derivatives: Active, Dynamic and Individual, and has been aligned with that of the passenger car range. The Active model features a new 1,9-litre diesel engine with automatic or manual gearbox, producing 121 kW of power and 213 Nm of torque. 

The Dynamic and Individual models feature the new 3,0-litre engine driving through 6-speed automatic gearbox and producing 140 kW of power and 450 Nm of torque. The Individual model is available with the 4x4 drivetrain, whereas all other models are available in the 4x2 drivetrain. 

Craig Roberts, MD of Mazda Southern Africa says: “We could not be prouder or more excited to launch the BT-50 in Southern Africa now. The vehicle has a long history locally, and internationally. It has been re-imagined and re-built from the ground up, with all the utilitarian value of a double-cab bakkie, and all the comfort and technology expected of an SUV. We are confident it will be met with enthusiasm by our customers and media alike, as a true stand-out and another bold reflection on our Japanese Heritage.” 

The new BT-50 received a 5 Star ANCAP Safety rating in 2020, issued by the Australasian New Car Assessment Program. The All-New BT-50 will come standard with a 3-Year Unlimited Kilometre Mazda Service Plan, 3-Year Unlimited Kilometre Mazda Warranty and a 3-Year Unlimited Roadside Assistance.

 Polestar launches design contest

Are you handy with a pencil and brim full of ideas that could change the world? If so, Polestar wants to hear from you. 

Polestar, the Swedish electric performance car brand led by designer Thomas Ingenlath, has launched its 2021 vision of future mobility Design Contest under the theme of ‘progressive’. 

The contest features both student and professional categories, with initial designs submitted in the form of sketches or digital images. Designs should display new ways of thinking that could encourage positive change in society, including responses to the ongoing climate crisis. The progressive theme should be evident in the designs. 

“In a landscape of disruptive technologies, evolving lifestyles and fast-growing concern for climate change, design can be the driving force for positive change. We believe our contest provides a great platform for the design community to visualise progressive mobility ideas of the future,” says Maximilian Missoni, Head of Design at Polestar. 

The 2020 contest drew more than 600 applications from across the world. Entries included an array of cutting-edge design concepts, from prosthetic springboard blades for walking, to an autonomous pod, to a luxury yacht that exuded Polestar’s minimalistic design tonality. 

One of the winning designs was an airship that looked 20 years ahead, combining Polestar’s design ethos with a 21^st century aviation approach. The design did not need to be a car, but it needed to be ‘a Polestar’. 

An exclusive feature of the global Polestar Design Contest is the coaching and support it offers. Shortlisted submissions will receive guidance and feedback with Head of Design Maximilian Missoni, Polestar designers and sustainability lead. 

A unique prize awaits the winners, who will be flown to either Polestar Chengdu or Polestar Headquarters in Gothenburg, Sweden to attend the Polestar Design Exhibition, as well as to experience both the brand and the cars up close. 

The winning designs in each category will be brought to life as 1:5 scale models and an exhibition of the winning designs will then tour Polestar Spaces around the world. This unique opportunity to promote the designers’ work during the inaugural contest last year even caught the eye of Demna Gvasalia, Creative Director at Balenciaga, who chose to integrate the designs within the fashion brand’s virtual AW show in 2020. 

To aid in their continued development as designers, winners will also receive a computer and tablet, along with a trophy. 

“Polestar is a design-born, purpose-led electric car brand, on a mission to accelerate the shift to sustainable mobility,” explains Juan Pablo Bernal, Senior Interior Design Manager at Polestar, and curator of the @polestardesigncommunity Instagram page. “We feel the ‘progressive’ theme provides a unique canvas for designers around the world to express their creativity in the pursuit of our shared goals.” 

• No purchase or payment required to enter. English language required. Must be age of majority or older to participate. Registration starts 7 June 2021 and closes 30 June 2021. Subject to eligibility and other restrictions. For complete Official Rules, visit about.polestar.com/polestar-design-contest/2021/