Car Reviews

Juliet drives the new Datsun GO

I was not a fan of the previous Datsun GO. So much so that I refused to write anything about it. I wouldn’t review it and I wouldn’t put it on any list of car recommendations. I want to go as far as to say I boycotted it. That’s a stretch dramatic, but as we have already established, I quite like drama. I am very happy to say that I am no longer dramatic about this car, well only slightly. The new Datsun GO is not only safer, but a product that I would be happy to suggest as a contender on your budget-buy list. Watch my video to find out why. Please subscribe to my YouTube channel and follow me on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. If you missed my video last week of the Mahindra XUV500, you are missing out my friend!

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First drive in the new Toyota Corolla Hatch

Car Reviews / julzmcg

The Toyota Corolla; nothing has been as bland since dishwater came about. But that does not mean the Corolla isn’t also a force to be reckoned with. Toyota has sold almost a bazillion of them and it’s for good reason. The Corolla is practical, reliable, and comfortable among many other adjectives I could use to describe it. What could make it better? Better styling? Enter the new Toyota Corolla Hatch… It is essentially an Auris, but now with the name ‘Corolla’ slapped on to it instead. And I am so pleased to say that it looks sh*t hot! With the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) chassis the Corolla is longer and lower than its Auris predecessor. It also means it has a more sleek appearance. It’s all curves and edges. You can choose between six colours, three new ones which include Scarlet Metallic, Oxide Bronze and Caribbean Blue which looks pretty epic. I don’t have a pic of the blue one, but you should be able to Google it. Ag fine, I will do it. The Toyota Corolla Hatch in Caribbean Blue. COME INSIDE I thought the cabin would be boring AF but, yislaaik, I was so wrong. It is modern and fresh! The quality of materials used is superb and it all feels very solid and well-built. I know it shouldn’t be, but my favourite thing is the volume knob and we all know how much I love a knob 😉 No touching the touchscreen a million times just to lower the volume. Nope, you just turn the knob….old school style! The only downfall is space. Not up front, but in the rear. The rear passengers have limited legroom and headroom and as for the boot, well that is almost non-existent. It has a full-sized spare wheel in there, so it takes up almost all of the space. I would rather a good ol’ Marie Biscuit wheel and a bigger boot. I fear it may deter some customers. Especially since it is smaller than some of its competitors. But if, like me, you’re not too concerned about your rear passengers comfort and you pack your bags in first, you could overlook the lack of space. The Toyota Corolla Hatch is powered by a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine and what an excellent engine it is. If you want to get the most of the 85 kW and 185 Nm, then I would opt for the six-speed manual transmission. But if it is the convenience of a CVT that gets you, you won’t be disappointed. It’s a nippy little bugger. Fuel consumption is claimed at 6.1-litres. I averaged around 7.2l/100 km in the manual, but struggled to get it under 10l/100 km in the CVT. I was pushing it (to national speed limit obviously), but still, that is a touch high for my liking. WHAT’S THE VERDICT? Look, there is no denying it has some seriously stiff competition. The Volkswagen Golf is not to be underestimated and the Ford Focus is another strong rival. But what I love about this new Hatch is that not only does it have two massive heavyweight nameplates on its backside (Toyota and Corolla), but even without what those names stand for, this car is excellent. It will cost you less than the Golf but a little more than the Focus (but we are waiting on the new Focus). If you want everything that the Corolla sedan offers, but don’t want to feel like a boring old fart, then have a look at the Corolla Hatch. You won’t be disappointed – just don’t look at the boot! This is certainly a car to consider. TOYOTA COROLLA HATCH PRICING Corolla Hatch 1.2T Xs 6MT – R 336 800 Corolla Hatch 1.2T Xs CVT – R 347 400 Corolla Hatch 1.2T Xr CVT – R 367 100 All Corolla Hatch models come standard with a six-services/90 000 km Service Plan and three-year/100 000 km warranty. Service intervals are set at 12 months/15 000 km.

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First drive in the new Toyota Corolla Hatch

Car Reviews / julzmcg

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First Drive in the new Renault Koleos

Car Reviews / julzmcg

Renault Koleos! This name got me thinking…and we all know how much I love a naughty car name, just take a look at the meaning of Hyundai Kona. I laugh out loud every time I say it, childish I know. But it keeps me very entertained and so I wanted to check what the meaning of Koleos was. And oh how happy it has made me. If you were living in Greece, you would basically be driving a Renault Vagina. I am finished! It can also mean ‘sheath’ but as a noun, it means vagina. And if you look at the Latin meaning, you are looking at a Renault testicle. I realise how immature I am coming across, but I don’t care. If you can’t be silly what kind of life do you have? This stuff is pure gold. But on a more mature level, the Koleos is Renault’s flagship SUV offering and I am thrilled to say that it is an excellent product that I think will appeal to many of you. It competes with a tough crowd, of which includes the Toyota Rav4, Honda CR-V, Volkswagen Tiguan and Mazda CX-5 to name but a few. It even competes with its very close sibling, the Nissan X-Trail (the Koleos a product of the Renault-Nissan alliance so it shares very similar aspects with the X-Trail). It’s a really great looking car but that is not even the best part, because step inside and you are met with a really premium product. From the infotainment system to the quality of materials used, you would be forgiven for thinking you were in a far pricier car. It’s also got one of the biggest cabins in the segment and boasts the most rear legroom. The boot is also a generous 464-litres. The seats were a tad uncomfortable for my fussy butt, but my co-pilot, CARmag editor, Terence Steenkamp, was comfy for the whole drive. The ride quality, however, is simply superb and not just on the road either. Take this off the beaten track and you will be pleasantly surprised by its off-road manners. It wouldn’t be necessary to opt for the 4X4 derivative, but the choice is there if you want it. As Terence says, “opt for the mid-range Dynamique 4×2 which, at R439 900, looks like particularly good value.” You should probably read his driving impression of the Renault Koleos 2,5 4×4 Dynamique CVT. Only once you have finished mine, obviously! The only drawback is, unfortunately, the engine. The naturally aspirated 2.5-litre petrol engine, which delivers 126 kW and 233 Nm, doesn’t have enough oomph to it even when your foot is grinding that throttle flat in to the floorboard. Overtaking requires some planning and I can’t help but think that Renault’s 1.6-litre turbo might have fared better if it were available. Other than the engine, the Renault vagina Koleos is a product that I would happily recommend to any family. It has so much going for it that you will probably be happy to overlook the lack of power from the engine, especially if you look at the pricing…which is really, really good. THE NEW RENAULT KOLEOS PRICING The Renault Koleos is sold with a 5-year / 150 000 km mechanical warranty, 6-year anti-corrosion warranty, 5-year / 90 000 km service plan and the service intervals are every 15 000 km. Koleos Expression 2.5 CVT 4×2 – R399 900 Koleos Dynamique 2.5 CVT 4×2 – R439 900 Koleos Dynamique 2.5 CVT 4×4 – R479 900

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First drive in the new Lexus UX

Car Reviews / julzmcg

Well, technically it is my second drive in the Lexus UX, you should recall my somewhat taunting post of my trip to Stockholm, Sweden, to attend the international launch of this new offering from Lexus. It has now officially launched in South Africa and of course I was there to bask in all its glory! I do get so excited when a manufacturer launches a brand new product. Not just an upgrade or a facelift or even the next generation, but a brand spanking new car that no one has ever seen or driven before – except for those punks overseas who get to see and drive it before we do. The Lexus UX is one such product. An offering to rival those in the popular small SUV/ Crossover segment. Rivals such as the Audi Q3, BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA. So how will the UX fare? Let’s see… LOOKING GOOD When I was on the international launch (just in case you forgot I got to go to Sweden), I didn’t love the styling of the UX. But for some reason unbeknownst to me, on South African soil, I quite love it! It is all angular and sharp, but I am drawn to it in a way I wasn’t previously. Some things cannot be explained. Either way, it is going to a hot topic amongst local buyers because I fear they will either love it or hate it. Inside, however, there will be no ‘Marmite” reactions. Everybody will love it. It’s sophisticated and modern and filled with all the goodies you want when paying this much for a car. (Pricing is at then end of this post to force you to read my entire review…or you can be a d**k and just scroll down…I’m watching you though!). SPECCED OUT With Lexus, you can guarantee an epic spec sheet and the UX is no different. Even from the UX200 EX base model you can expect everything but the kitchen sink in it. Here is a taste: Smart entry and push start, climate control, back guide monitor, parking support Alert, a wireless charger, EMV Navigation, simulated leather and 18-inch alloy wheels. Next up is the UX250h model which adds things like adaptive cruise control, Adaptive High Beam System, leather and memory seats and hands-free power back door. The range-topping F Sport adds dynamic styling as well as Sport S+ drive mode select, sports seats, Active Sound Control and Adaptive Variable Suspension. VROOM VROOM When it comes to the engines, you will find a 2.0-litre petrol unit producing 126 kW and 205 NM under the bonnet of the UX200 EX. The hybrid utilises a version of this 2.0-litre engine mated to an electric motor. The total outputs sit at 135 kW and 180 Nm. The F Sport also uses the same 2.0-litre engine found in the UX200. If I had to choose which engine I would go for, it would have to be the hybrid. And not because I am all earthy and sh*t (although I totally am), but because the power is almost immediately available and it just feels more punchy. The hybrid-specific CVT is excellently paired to the engine and if you’re happy to forego the sport looks of the F-Sport, I think you will be happy with the claimed fuel consumption of just 4.5l/100km of the hybrid. (The F Sport and 200 EX claims 6.1l/100km). The 2.0-litre naturally aspirated engine doesn’t have enough oomph that I think a lot of buyers will be after. But if fuel consumption is your main concern, then the hybrid will be perfect for you. The ride is smooth as silk and the whole driving experience is one of luxury. The steering is light, direct and responsive and the car feels solid on the road. These are important things for me when driving a car. I want to feel safe and sturdy. Thankfully the safety spec is also high. Overall, Lexus is offering a superb product in the form of the new UX. It serves as an entry point for those who want to own a Lexus, but of course, pricing is everything. It doesn’t come cheap, but bear in mind the standard spec level and you might find that this offering becomes rather appealing. PRICING OF THE NEW LEXUS UX Lexus UX200 EX: R599 000Lexus UX250h SE: R699 000Lexus UX200 F Sport: R726 600

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Juliet drives the Mahindra KUV100 NXT K8

Car Reviews / julzmcg

It’s not often I drive a car and truly dislike it, the Mahindra KUV100 was one such car. It pains me to admit it and I know some might disagree with me, but it certainly has a long way to go before this car can compete with what’s already on the market. The Mahindra KUV100 does have a few good points, but the stop-start system is enough to make the decision for me. It can be switched off, of course, but it defaults back to ‘on’ when you restart the car. It’s far too intrusive and temperamental and on far too many occasions, the ‘start’ part didn’t work. I was stuck at the traffic lights apologising profusely to the agitated drivers behind me. The stress was far too much for me to handle. And there are enough stressors on the roads already to have to deal with one in your own car! Mahindra has come a long way and they are certainly heading in the right direction, but they have a way to go before I would recommend the Mahindra KUV100 over some of its competitors. Please subscribe to my YouTube channel and follow me on Twitter @JulietMc and Instagram @juliet_mcguire If you missed my video last week of the new Isuzu MU-X, you are missing out my friend!

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First drive in the new BMW X5

Car Reviews / julzmcg

I know, I know, the new BMW X5 was launched last year already, but I wanted to keep you in suspense. Ya right, like you were waiting, eyes on my website, just for my review of the BMW X5. Well you should have been! Shame on you! Anyway, on to the BMW X5. Who doesn’t love this car? I am not the biggest BMW fan and even I adore it. I have done since it launched back in 1999. Yoh, but I look back at that first generation now and shame, it looks quite pathetic now, doesn’t it? Only because of what it has become. It was in no way a pathetic car, quite the contrary really. Since 1999 more than 2.1 million X5s have been sold. Sure, they weren’t all that first generation, but that’s not the point. The first two generations hit sales of over 1.3 million. Either way, it is safe to say that the BMW X5 is an icon! And this fourth generation is bigger and better than it has ever been before. What do you think of the massive front kidney grille? Do you love it? I am undecided. But overall, I just love the look of the new X5…the term ‘beastly’ comes to mind! It sits on a longer wheelbase than the previous generation and is also higher and wider. Don’t be fooled by the looks that it’s got, it’s still, it’s still Jenny from the block (that song will be stuck in your head for the rest of the day). What I mean is that it still has that BMW X5 essence to it, but just with a bit more pizzazz! But my friends, it is the interior that gave me all the feels. Finally, BMW has stepped it up and the interior is modern, fresh, luxurious and well, not ‘bland BMW’. The seats are so super comfy, BMW’s Live Cockpit Professional facia makes it all look super fancy pants, and an overall feeling of refinement and quality smacks you right in the face. If you have a bazillion rand more to spend, select the optional extras such as the panoramic sunroof which has 15 000 illuminated graphic patterns which makes it looks like a million stars! Ok, I am kidding, do not spend money on that, it is a R39 000 gimmick. But it is glorious gimmick. Also, one could actually just look through the glass to actual stars, but I like the sentiment BMW, I truly do. There are loads of other features that will keep you on your toes…for about a day and then wear off, so bear that in mind when ticking the boxes because you don’t really need them. An example is the glass applications which transform the gear lever etc. It all looks amazing, but it isn’t a necessary feature. The tech is impressive so be sure to run your eye along that list because things such as a wireless charging pad could come in handy. Two turbodiesels are on offer. The 30d will satisfy most of its customers with it 3.0-litre engine producing 195 kW and 620Nm. The eight-speed automatic transmission is perfectly suited to this engine and again, most customers will only be too happy to drive this on a daily basis. But for those who like more icing on their cake, you can opt for the M50d which has not one, not two, not three, but FOUR turbochargers. Two high pressure and two low pressure meaning that the 760Nm of torque becomes available very, very quickly. The numbers are exciting you have to admit; 294 kW, 0-100 km/h in 5.2 seconds…beastly right?! The on-road composure of the BMW X5 has never been up for debate and there is no need to start one now, it is still as refined and as luxurious as ever. But off-road is what you want to hear about. All for an extra cost you can get the optional all-terrain tyres, which are not run-flat by the way and so have the softer sidewalls that improves the ride quality, and the Off-Road Package which adds a few styling elements to the bag as well as different driving modes of which includes Sand, Rock, Gravel and Snow. BMW set out to better the previous generation X5 and I can confidently say that they achieved this and more. Because not only is the X5 a better product overall, but it also adds more capability to the overall package. It’s a luxurious SUV with all the bells and whistles. Hell, you might even find yourself whistling at it when it drives past. Not in a creep catcalling way though! Keep it classy people. As classy as the new BMW X5 is. PRICING OF THE NEW BMW X5 BMW xDrive30d: R1 194 296 BMW M50d: R1 502 582

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First Drive in the updated Kia Sportage

Car Reviews / julzmcg

I cannot even begin to tell you how much I love the Kia Sportage. And the Kia brand as a whole! I know this is not a very objective statement, but I don’t care. I have loved the Kia Sportage as long as you have…which is since the third generation launched in 2010. Don’t lie, you did not love it before, no one really did. Because it was the third generation that put Kia on the map, especially here in South Africa. Then the fourth generation landed and it became what David Sieff, Kia Motors South Africa Marketing Director calls, “A Marmite Car.” You either loved the new design or you hated it. I didn’t care what it looked like, I just loved driving it. And nothing has changed for me with this updated version. There are slight changes to the look, like redesigned front and rear bumpers, a bit of treatment to the ‘tiger nose grill’ and a new taillight design and lighting signature. There are also new alloy wheel designs and a new selection of colours. The interior designs are even more subtle with redesigned air vents and centre fascia as well as a new steering wheel design. The bigger change comes with the revision of the range which sees the elimination of a few derivatives which is all in line with trying to increase value and reduce complexity.You can say goodbye to the 2.4 GDI and 1.6 T-GDI, but never fear because the 2.0 MPI and 2.0 CRDI have been retained. There is also a new engine in the form of the 1.6 GDI as well as a new eight-speed automatic transmission on all CRDI models. I hopped in to the 1.6 GDI Ignite first because I wanted to see what the entry level Sportage would be like as it is the one that I would most likely be able to afford. It comes in at R379 995 and features the new 1.6 GDI engine I just mentioned. It puts out 97 kW of power and 161 N.m of torque. It’s only available with a six-speed transmission. This engine is certainly not the one I would choose if I had the cash, purely because it does lack a bit of oomph and under hard acceleration tends to screech just a bit. But then again, I am heavy footed and the 12.1 seconds it would take me to get to 100 km/h is just not quick enough. With that said, the spec is certainly up to scratch. You can expect cruise control, rear parking sensors, a smooth (noticeably smooth!) leather-wrapped steering wheel, six airbags, ABS with EBD, hill start assist, downhill brake control, manual air conditioning, remote central locking, all round electric windows, Bluetooth, and so much more. I mean come on, do you really need much else? I don’t think so. The only noticeable ‘downfall’ is the infotainment screen and that is only because I got to experience the seven-inch infotainment system in the EX trim level. Let’s pretend I am not a motoring journalist and so have money to actually buy a car, I would opt for the 2.0 CRDi EX 8AT which comes in at R509 995, I wouldn’t even need the fancy as f*&% top of the range EX Plus which hits the market at R549 995. Unless you need a sunroof and a wireless charger (I judge you), then the EX will be just fine. When I say I love this brand, I truly mean it. There is nothing like the breath of fresh air that comes with an honest manufacturer. Kia doesn’t disclose its fuel consumption figures to us because, as they say, what is the point? The conditions of these fuel consumption tests are in no way representative of real life. There are so many things that can determine the fuel consumption, namely the route you drive and the way you drive. In other words, don’t drive like a doos and you should be good. But seriously, there is no point in a claimed number. You’re better of taking the car for a test drive over a weekend to experience it in your world, that will give you a much better indication. The Kia Sportage is comfortable, quiet, spacious, fully-specced, smooth, and just all kinds of wonderful. If you’re shopping in this segment, you cannot leave the Kia Sportage off of your list of cars to consider. In fact, I think you’d be an idiot to not put it right at the top of that list! PRICING OF THE UPDATED KIA SPORTAGE KIA Sportage 1.6 GDI Ignite (6-Speed Auto) R379,995 KIA Sportage 2.0 Ignite Plus (6-Speed Manual) R389,995 KIA Sportage 2.0 Ignite Plus (6-Speed Auto) R403,995 KIA Sportage 2.0 CRDI Ignite Plus (8-Speed Auto) R453,995 KIA Sportage 2.0 EX (6-Speed Auto) R459,995 KIA Sportage 2.0 CRDI EX (8-Speed Auto) R509,995 KIA Sportage 2.0 CRDI EX AWD (8-Speed Auto) R536,995 KIA Sportage 2.0 EX Plus (6-Speed Auto) R499,995 KIA Sportage 2.0 CRDI EX Plus (8-Speed Auto) R549,995

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First Drive in the new Datsun GO

Car Reviews / julzmcg

Never have I been so disappointed in a manufacturer as I was when the Datsun GO was launched in 2014. Ok, that’s a lie, I was also annoyed with Renault when the Kwid hit our roads. Gone are the days when it was common practice to sell a car with no safety features. Sure, my first Citi Golf had no airbags and certainly no ABS, but manufacturers now know better. There are also far more accidents on our roads than ever before. I felt it took advantage of people who were on tight budgets. A sort of, “We can give you a brand new car, but if someone drives in to you, well, you will more than likely not survive…but hey, it’s cheap and cheerful and it is all you can afford, so you can’t be too fussy.” DO NOT DESPAIR THOUGH BUT now, the new Datsun GO has arrived and I want to shout WOOOHOOOO! Because not only does it have ABS, but it also has a driver and a passenger airbag. Even with the massive amount of sales the Datsun has enjoyed, this manufacturer heard our calls for more safety features. I am really thrilled to be writing this review. I avoided the previous Datsun GO like the plague, but now, I would be happy to recommend this new one to anyone who has almost zero budget but wants a new car. With a starting price of R144 500 it’s a bloody steal. And you don’t even have to opt for the top of the range GO LUX which goes for R165 500. The MID trim level has all you need. The list includes things like all-round electric windows, a 7-inch Touch screen audio system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth with USB port, electrically adjustable steering wheel, reverse parking sensors, immobiliser, keyless entry and the safety features I already mentioned. Are you also asking, “WTF?” I know, right? That is a crazy amount of spec! The LUX model adds daytime running lights, rear wiper with washer, 14-inch alloys instead of steel wheels, and the interior is dotted with silver finishes. Either way, you’re getting great value for money. It’s still powered by a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated engine and is mated to a five-speed manual transmission. You’re looking at 50 kW of power and 104 N.m of torque with a claimed fuel consumption of just 5.2L/100 km. Robot to robot, it’s nippy, but what is interesting is that once you are cruising on the highway (which takes a little bit of effort to get there) and you start hitting 4 000 rpm, it is like the Datsun GO just wants to, well go! It has an extra bit of oomph left in it which makes for a pleasant cruising experience. SO WHAT ELSE IS NEW? The front and rear bumpers have been redesigned and the front features a D-cut Honeycomb grille. The reverse parking sensors are a new feature as are the 14-inch alloy wheels and LED daytime running lights. Inside the dashboard has seen a redesign and there is no longer the weird Love Seat thing happening at the front, but rather two individual seats. Some of the standard features above, such as Android Auto, Apple Car Play and front and rear electric windows are also new. ANYTHING TO DISLIKE? One must expect some imperfection when it comes to a car with such a low-price range, but it isn’t what you might think. Some of these ‘annoyances’ of mine have nothing to do with it being a budget buy, but more to do with it not being thought through. For example, the USB port sits under the gear lever console (although, I must mentioned that I do love the positioning of the gear lever), so you must almost lie across the front seats to see it in order to plug something in. I tried to navigate this through feel, but I failed, so bum in air I was, trying to find the darn thing. Another issue is the review mirror, I am not sure if the designer of this mirror wears coke bottles as prescription glasses, but yislaaik, you can’t tell whether a car is 100m behind you or a kilometre. It is better than the previous model, so I have been told, but I could not look in the review mirror without feeling like I was going to hurl. The last issue I have is with the back-board tray parcel, every time you put something in the boot you have to manually lift it up and then that is where it stays. You will only realise again when you are comfortably sitting in the driver’s seat and look in to the fuzzy review mirror only to see total blackness. This is something you might get used to, but in one day my driving partner and I did it more than four times and hurled profanities at the board every time. These are all minor issues though when you consider the whole picture. GIVE IT A GO! 😉 A part from those minor glitches, the new Datsun GO has seen a major improvement and I hope that those who had once turned their backs on it due to the lack of safety features, will now consider it as a good choice. We are still to find out the Safety Rating, but for now, I think we owe Datsun a round of applause for coming to the party and realising that selling deathtraps to the poor is just not on. Yay for ABS and airbags! GO DATSUN GO! PRICING OF THE NEW DATSUN GO AND GO+ (If five seats just aren’t enough for, check out the Datsun GO+ which offers seven seats.) Datsun GO Mid Spec: R144 500 Datsun GO Lux Spec: R165 500 Datsun GO+ 7-seater Mid: R154 200 Datsun GO+ 7-seater Lux: R175 900 Datsun GO+ Panel Van: R155 200

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First drive in the new Mercedes-AMG G63

1 Comment / Car Reviews / julzmcg

Is there any car cooler than a G-Wagon? No, I don’t think there is. I don’t even think the word “cool” is cool enough for it. I am not young (or cool) enough to get away with words such a “lit” or whatever else it is millennials say these days, but what I do know is that this new Mercedes-AMG G63 is hot as f***! That is a saying that never goes out of fashion, much like the G-Wagon! I flew up to the Cradle of Humankind for the local launch of this beast. And what an appropriate spot, right? The G-Class is all about the DNA, the heritage, the genes. So why not launch where the very start of humankind originated? I feel like this fossil stuff should interest me more, but when you have the new G63 waiting to be test driven, nothing else really matters. LOOKING GOOD It retains its good looks, obviously. Not much has changed over the years. Not since the very first one which launched back in 1979. Since then, this icon has become more than just a status symbol. But isn’t it funny, I never look at the driver of a G-Wagon and think he/she is compensating for something. I look at them with an instant respect. It’s a car that gives zero f***s and so why should the driver? The G-Class driver doesn’t care what you think about them. They don’t have to care. They’re driving a G-Wagon and you’re not. STEP INSIDE Where this new Mercedes-AMG G63 has changed is on the inside. Due to it being slightly wider, taller and longer, the inside is now more spacious than ever. It also no longer feels, well, industrial. It’s modern and luxurious. And so it bloody well should be at a price tag of just under R2.6 million. But again, zero shits given! I’d pay that if I had the money to do so, and I cannot say that about any other car in this price range. You will recognise the Windscreen Cockpit from the E-Class and a few other titbits here and there from the S-Class. VROOM VROOM Powering this beautiful beast is now a 4.4-litre biturbo V8 which produces numbers I have never even written down in a review (ok that is a lie, but it’s for dramatic effect), 480 kW and a WHOPPING 850 Nm of torque. This thing can propel itself from standstill to 100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds. And let me tell you, it is a thrill like no other trying to achieve this time. The sound coming out of those exhaust pipes flows through you like a bottle of smooth wine, giving you a buzz that takes you a while to shake (not that you want to). The only problem I had was with the Lane Keeping Assist. It is so aggressive you almost crap yourself every time it ruks the steering wheel out of your hands to pull you back in to the lane. Apparently, it can be turned off, but I only found this out once we had finished driving. Fail! The steering is also helluva sensitive and so can cause a few heart palpitations if you’re not concentrating, but that too can be adjusted. This car is made for cruising both on and off road. We only tackled a bit of gravel and loose stone, but it was enough to appreciate the sure footedness of this vehicle – even if the bum slid out on a couple corners – it made for some exciting moments (for me, not for my poor passenger). Being so practical (the boot can swallow quite a bit of luggage) makes this Mercedes-AMG G63 the complete package. Sure, you are paying for it, but the same can’t be said for every car sitting around this price mark. If you ever want an experience like no other, hop in to a G-Class. It is after all, the only Mercedes-Benz model series to not have known an end to production. It just evolves, gets better and stronger, hence the “stronger than time” slogan. The G350 is due in SA in 2019. MERCEDES-AMG G63 PRICING R2 591 000 I have other Mercedes-Benz reviews you might be interested in.

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