The Suzuki Ignis was introduced exactly three years after it was first launched to wide acclaim, notching up nominations as a 2018 SA Car of the Year finalist, the Drive360 Car of the Year and international awards such as the 2018 Urban World Car of the Year Runner-Up and Scottish Compact Car of the Year.

Design language

It features a refreshed look, which brings it in line with Suzuki’s iconic SUV design language, also seen on models such as the S-Presso, Vitara and Jimny.

READ | Thank you Suzuki for turbocharging the Swift Sport

The S-emblem on the front grille is now flanked by four chromed square slots. It fills the space between the front lights to create a bright bar from edge to edge between the front fenders, especially on the GLX-model, where the surrounding grille face also has chrome accents.

As before, the GLX-models feature wrap-around daytime running lights with projector style LED headlamps. GLX models also have added roof rails and flared wheel arch extensions to help it stand out, especially since the Ignis has a standard ground clearance of 180mm.

It also incorporates fog lights.

All models have colour-coded side mirrors, while the GLX specification level also includes integrated turn signals and the ability to electrically fold back.

Big on the inside

All models offer a 60:40 split rear seats, 260-litres of boot space and ample interior space for five occupants. It also offers luxuries, such as an audio system with USB and Bluetooth connectivity, steering controls, electric windows and central locking and a multi-information display across the range.

All models further offer safety features such as dual airbags, ABS brakes with electronic brake-force distribution and ISOFIX child anchor points. Security is taken care of by a standard alarm and immobiliser combination.

Those who do decide to upgrade to the higher GLX specification level will find an extended list of additional features, including a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto built in. The large touch screen doubles as a reverse camera monitor, while the reverse camera is supplemented by rear parking sensors.

The Ignis will further offer customers large car luxuries such as keyless entry with a Push-button start, climate control, chrome or silver highlights on the parking brake, door handles and shift knob.

Not your average

As before, all versions of the Ignis are fitted with the brand’s popular K12M 1.2 litre petrol engine with variable valve timing and multi-point fuel injection.

This engine delivers 61kW at 6 000rpm and 113Nm at 4 200rpm, which, combined with a kerb weight as low as 860kg, means that the Ignis is no slouch in city driving or on the highway.

The engine is mated to a five-speed manual gearbox, with the option of Suzuki’s newest generation automated manual transmission on the GLX model.

New colour combinations available

Suzuki has added a number of new colours and colour combinations.

Customers have the choice of silver or blue cabin accents, depending on the exterior colour, and the option of new two-tone colour combinations.

The colour palette has increased to include: Arctic White Pearl Metallic, Silky Silver Metallic, Glistening Grey Metallic, Turquoise Blue Pearl Metallic and Midnight Black with Pearl Finish.

Two-tone combinations now include Stargaze Blue Pearl Metallic with Black combination, and Lucent Orange with Black Metallic.

The Ignis is available immediately and will be offered with a 2-year / 30 000 km service plan and Suzuki’s promotional 5-year / 200 000 km mechanical warranty, which includes roadside assistance.

The safety package has also been upgraded with the addition of a Brake Override System (BOS), recently introduced on the Isuzu D-Max range.

Visual improvements

The mu-X features a bolder radiator grille design, complemented by a restyled front bumper incorporating colour coding for the upper section and a contrasting gloss black finish for the lower portion, as well as for the fog lamp bezels.

READ | Isuzu voted the brand with the best sales people

This equates to a more robust and dynamic appearance in conjunction with the LED daytime running lights and bi-LED projector headlamps with auto-levelling functionality as standard.

Another of the stand-out features is the striking new 18-inch gloss black diamond-cut alloy wheels, in combination with a new gloss black finish for the side steps.

The rear bumper features a colour-coded upper section, gloss back treatment for the lower trim, two-tone silver and black roof rails, as well as new tail light clusters with a combination of chrome and gloss black finishes.

In addition to the exterior, the cabin has also been updated with several exclusive touches. Piano black finishes have been adopted for the door switch bezels and trim panels, gear shift surround as well as the centre stack for the infotainment system and climate control.

Functionality meets convenience

Additionally, the switches located on the leather-trimmed steering wheel for the audio system, phone functions and cruise control are picked out in black with a silver garnish, while ambient lighting has been introduced in the door trims.

It also features flexible folding centre and rear rows of seats, allowing up to seven passengers to be carried. The electronic climate control system caters for both front and rear occupants – the latter having access to their own cooling vents, ensuring high levels of comfort for any distance trips. Leather trim is standard for the seats, with the driver’s seat offering six-way electric adjustment.

A multi-function infotainment unit comes as standard while also boasting an eight-inch colour touchscreen display with Bluetooth connectivity and audio streaming, as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality.

A nine-inch colour touchscreen is available as an optional extra and offers added features like the embedded satellite navigation and audio systems. Front and rear USB slots are provided, in conjunction with an auxiliary iPod input and HDMI port.

Additional standard features include central locking with everyday convenience thanks to the keyless entry and start, along with touch sensor opening and push-button locking functions on the door handles.

As expected of a leisure-oriented SUV, a multitude of storage compartments are strategically located around the cabin, including dual glove boxes, an upper dash storage binnacle and cup holders for all three rows of seats.

The rear-facing camera is linked to the infotainment display to ease parking and reverse manoeuvres, with audible sensors for the rear park assist system. Vehicle security is taken care of with the factory-fitted immobiliser and alarm system which is a standard fitment.

Enhanced safety

As mentioned, the newly introduced Brake Overide System is linked to the ABS braking system, and restricts accelerator input if the brakes are applied at the same time – thereby reducing the vehicle’s stopping distance in an emergency.

This new feature complements the already extensive range of active safety features including Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), along with Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Hill Start Assist (HSA) and Hill Descent Control (HDC) which can be engaged in low range 4×4 mode.

Passive safety equipment comprises dual front, side and full-length curtain airbags, linked to front seat pre-tensioner seatbelts, plus a high tensile steel passenger safety cell that offers outstanding strength and rigidity.

Under the bonnet is a 3.0-litre four-cylinder intercooled turbodiesel engine that produces 130kW and 380Nm. It is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission which includes a sequential sport mode.

A three-tonne towing capacity makes the mu-X a great choice for pulling trailers and boats, in keeping with its adventurous, lifestyle-oriented customer profile.

Buyers can personalise their models with functional items such as an optional mechanical diff-lock for the 4×4 and 4×2 models, audible parking sensors, a storage box located beneath the luggage compartment, a tow bar, bonnet guard, weather guard kit for the windows, front spoiler set and rear bumper scuff plate.

Isuzu is committed to giving its customers exceptional ownership peace of mind. Accordingly, the Isuzu mu-X comes standard with Isuzu Complete Care, comprising a five-year/120 000km bumper-to-bumper warranty and Isuzu Roadside Assistance, a five-year/unlimited km anti-corrosion warranty and a five-year/90 000km Service Plan. Service intervals are every 15 000km/12 months.

Extended cover can also be purchased for Roadside Assistance, Service Plans and Maintenance Plans through Isuzu Mobility.

Model range and Pricing

The latest generation of the company’s longest-running flagship SUV was first introduced back in 2000 and has been an ever-present since.

The teaser image reveals several new design features, including the combined front grille and daytime running light (DRL), as part of the new Integrated Architecture.

New and improved

The wide grille give the new Santa Fe a bold character, while the geometric pattern on the grille adds a stereoscopic aspect. The new T-shaped DRL complete the rugged character and make the new Santa Fe recognizable even from a distance.

Review: Hyundai’s grand Santa Fé

Among other enhancements, Hyundai will also introduce a new electrified powertrain line-up, including hybrid and plug-in hybrid options for the first time.

In addition, the SUV will be the first Hyundai model in Europe and first Hyundai SUV globally based on the all-new third-generation Hyundai vehicle platform.

The new platform allows for significant improvements in performance, handling and safety, as well as facilitating electrified powertrains.

The new Santa Fe will be available in Europe starting September 2020.

It’s driving qualities were honed at winter testing centre’s in Sweden, France and the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife circuit as well as various other race tracks.

Road and race-prepped

Engineers will put the final touches to the chassis technology of the 2-door model on the motorways and country roads around the German brand’s Group Research and Innovation Centre in Munich.

The proportions, aerodynamic properties and weight distribution of the two-door car provide the ideal basis for a chassis set-up focussed on dynamic performance.

A direct comparison with the new 3 Series highlights the new model’s profile clearly. It sits 57mm lower than its four-door counterpart and 21mm closer to the road as well.

High-end tech at work

The development team took a model-specific approach by incorporating chassis technology and connecting the suspension to the body. At the same time, the double-joint spring strut front axle and five-link rear axle configuration means the dialling up of performance doesn’t come at the expense of comfort on everyday drives and long journeys.

The range will now be spearheaded by an M model in the shape of the new M440i xDrive Coupe. It is powered by a straight-six engine delivering 275kW, while also featuring 48V mild-hybrid technology, with a 48V starter-generator and a second battery. Power is sent to all four wheels via an 8-speed Steptronic Sport transmission.

Besides improved efficiency, the benefit is punchier power development when the driver hits the accelerator hard. The additional 8kW generated by the electric boost effect underpins fast off-the-line getaways and in-gear sprints.

There is also an M Sport differential on hand to make sure that drive power is deployed to optimum effect in demanding driving situations. The custom-tuned chassis elastokinematics, powerful M Sport brakes and 18-inch M light-alloy wheels with mixed-size tyres are likewise contributory factors in the precisely controllable dynamics of the new Coupe.

The final round of testing will allow the engineers to fast-track their latest findings into the fine-tuning process at the Research and Innovation Centre.

It features a custom-designed colour coded body kit and green Isuzu badge to refresh the look.

Unique and quality finishes

The paint finish has been upgraded so that the front bumper guard, bonnet protector and headlight frames are colour-coded with the body.

The fog light surrounds and grille have remained black to contrast the body colour sections and to maintain some of that traditional XTR aggressive styling.  The green badge is a popular accessory on the original XTR but comes as standard on the Colour Edition.

Green is the theme

As with the standard XTR, this edition is equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels. These 6-spoke alloys covered in satin black features a deep dish design and is wrapped in Pirelli Scorpion All-Terrain Plus tyres.

The tailgate spoiler has also been colour-coded while the rear light surrounds are painted and the rear bumper also incorporates some body colour elements. 

The step remains as the black material finish and the exhaust finisher inserts are also black for contrast. Flashes of vibrant green, can be seen from behind from the rear anti-roll bar and rear dampers.

The heated front sports seats are upholstered in leather, suede and carbon fibre leather with contrast green overstitching.

Exclusive finishes

An XTR logo is embroidered on the back rest of each front seat and is repeated on the rear centre headrest.

The steering wheel is trimmed in leather and suede with green overstitching. Each is individually finished with green overstitching that is sewn on by hand.

The D-Max is equipped with a specially designed Pedders suspension with a 250mm ground clearance that gives it superb on and off-road performance.

Stopping is done courtesy of fully vented and slotted front brake discs that work in conjunction with Kevlar ceramic front brake pads.

It is available in Splash White, Titanium Silver Met, Obsidian Grey Mica and Cosmic Black Mica. The special edition bakkie will be available in all four colours but only a limited amount of each will be produced. 

The convertible features a Polymetal Grey metallic paint job and a grey soft-top hood, with the addition of 16-inch RAYS gunmetal alloy wheels.

Unique sporty goodness

The unique colour is a new edition to the MX-5 line up. It features piano black wing mirrors, while the inside is kitted with burgundy Nappa leather seats with silver stitching.

Based on the 1.5-litre 97kW Skyactiv-G Sport trim, the R-Sport is the latest example of Mazda UK’s long tradition of offering personalised limited volume MX-5s.

Customers can register their interest in the R650 000 R-Sport online now and UK deliveries will begin once the current retail restrictions come to an end.

A roadster with a twist

Based on the 1.5-litre Sport, the R-Sport’s standard equipment includes navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, cruise control, heated seats and climate control.

In addition, the updated MX-5 range features a 10-model line-up – four Convertibles and six RFs – the 97kW 1.5-litre Convertible is offered in SE-L and Sport trim, while the 135kW 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G engine is matched to Sport Tech and the new range-topping GT Sport Tech trim.

As with the Convertible, SE-L and Sport trim RF’s are powered by the 1.5-litre engine, while Sport Tech and GT Sport Tech come with the more powerful 2.0-litre engine. In addition, 2.0-litre RFs in both trim levels come with the option to choose an automatic gearbox.

New for the MX-5, the GT Sport Tech flagship model is marked out by 17-inch BBS alloy wheels and Burgundy Nappa leather seats, while across the whole range the MX-5 is available with Polymetal Grey Metallic paint for the first time.

The updated version of Mazda’s sports car also benefits from extra standard safety equipment: from Sport models and above, the MX-5 features Front Smart City Brake Support, Lane Departure Warning System, Rear Smart City Brake Support, Traffic Sign Recognition and Driver Attention Alert. While Blind Spot Monitoring System with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Adaptive LED headlights and a reversing camera are standard on Sport Tech and GT Sport Tech models.

As you’d expect for a car so famed for its dynamic abilities, the R-Sport retains the same chassis and mechanical set up as the 1.5-litre Sport MX-5.

For the first time ever, Ford Performance introduces a one-off Mustang Cobra Jet factory drag racer with all-electric propulsion.

Power and more power

The battery-powered Mustang Cobra Jet 1400 prototype is purpose-built and projected to deliver over 1 045kW and 1 490Nm to demonstrate the capabilities of an electric powertrain in one of the most demanding race environments.

Following the debut of the all-electric Ford Mustang Mach-E SUV – the first-ever, all-electric Mustang, the prototype represents another opportunity to advance Mustang heritage and performance while simultaneously incorporating some of the most advanced technology coming to Ford’s future powertrains.

It also honours the original Cobra Jet that first dominated drag strips in the late 1960s and still is a major force in sportsman drag racing today.

Electric race cars

“This project was a challenge for all of us at Ford Performance, but a challenge we loved jumping into,” said Mark Rushbrook, Global Director, Ford Performance Motorsports.

“We saw the Cobra Jet 1400 project as an opportunity to start developing electric powertrains in a race car package that we already had a lot of experience with, so we had performance benchmarks we wanted to match and beat right now. This has been a fantastic project to work on, and we hope the first of many coming from our team at Ford Performance Motorsports,” Rushbrook added.

Ford Performance continues to test Cobra Jet 1400 ahead of its world debut later this year at a drag racing event where fans, media and competitors alike will get to meet the race car, as well as see exactly what it’s capable of up on the asphalt.

Ford’s ‘Whisper Strategy’ delivers lots of small noise improvements around the vehicle that add up to a big difference, helping make journeys more comfortable and less tiring for drivers and passengers.

The sound of silence

For the new Kuga, Ford examined noise‑generating elements from the suspension to the door seals to help find ways to optimise interior refinement.

Adding perforations to Kuga Vignale leather seat bolsters reduced the total area of flat surfaces inside the cabin, helping absorb rather than reflect noise.

Aerodynamically-tuned sound shields are added underneath the body of the vehicle that help limit road and wind noise entering from outside.

READ | Ford EcoSport now boasts new automatic gearbox

Ford engineers spent two years testing more than 70 different tyres over surfaces from smooth Tarmac to rough concrete and cobbles, in wet and dry conditions and at a range of speeds to find the exact specification that kept road noise to a minimum while still delivering high levels of comfort and grip.

Channels behind the exterior panels that allow hidden wiring and components to pass from one area to another are smaller and narrower to limit airflow inside the body.

Refined quality

The ability to drive without a petrol or diesel engine enables quieter journeys. The plug-In Hybrid combines a petrol engine, electric motor and generator, and 14.4 kWh lithium-ion battery for zero-emission pure-electric driving capability.

Using the EV Now selectable drive mode switches off the petrol engine and powers the vehicle using battery and electric motor alone, achieving interior road noise levels of just 52 dB(A) in controlled tests – equivalent to gentle rainfall.

It also features Active Noise Cancellation technology. The system works just like popular noise-cancelling headphones – detecting unwanted low-frequency cabin sounds through strategically-placed microphones and counteracting them with an opposing soundwave from the B&O Sound System.

Telling sounds

A test carried out by Ford showed that occupants in the Kuga, experience interior noise levels that are just one quarter of those experienced by their grandparents in a 1966 Ford Anglia.

Below is comparative test, conducted in 3rd gear at a speed of 50km/h:

In addition to this, both Trend and Titanium trims also benefit from the inclusion of Ford’s Collision Mitigation System. Cruise control with an adaptive speed limiter has now been added to the Trend models, while the Titanium gains front parking sensors to complement the rear sensors that are standard across the range.

Ambiente goodness

“The introduction of a six-speed automatic transmission for the EcoSport 1.5 Ambiente represents another trend-setting move for this successful model, which now also offers the best value for money automatic in the entry-level compact utility segment,” says Doreen Mashinini, General Manager Marketing at FMCSA.

In total there are seven EcoSport derivatives available, starting with the 1.5 Ambiente in five-speed manual or the new six-speed automatic version. The three-cylinder, petrol engine available in the Ambiente auto’ produces 91kW and 151Nm. A 1.5-litre TDCi turbodiesel model is also available in Ambiente trim, producing 74kW and 205Nm, linked to a six-speed manual gearbox.

The 1.0 EcoBoost engine, which produces 92kW and 170Nm, powers the Trend and Titanium models, which can be specified with six-speed manual or automatic transmissions.

Added functionality

All Ambiente models feature no less than six airbags, while the Trend and Titanium also incorporate a driver’s knee airbag. Multimedia functionality is taken care of through Ford’s SYNC^® with Bluetooth and Voice Control, as well as two USB ports, six speakers and a 4.2-inch screen.

The Trend models boast a more sophisticated version of the SYNC^® infotainment system with a 6.5-inch colour touchscreen, while the Titanium’s SYNC^®3 features an 8-inch display as well as embedded turn-by-turn navigation.

Active driving safety features across the board include ABS brakes, Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Traction Control (TC), as well as Roll Stability Control (RSC) in the EcoBoost range.

The 1.0 EcoBoost-powered models are also equipped with Hill Launch Assist, along with Ford’s Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

All EcoSport models come standard with Ford Protect which includes a 4-year/60 000km service plan, 3-year unlimited distance roadside assistance and 4-year/120 000km comprehensive warranty. This is complemented by a five-year/unlimited distance corrosion warranty. Service intervals are every 15 000km.

Spec and pricing

EcoSport 1.5 Ambiente 5–speed manual                                      R279 700

EcoSport 1.5 TDCi Ambiente 5-speed manual                             R289 900

EcoSport 1.0 EcoBoost Trend 6-speed manual                          R319 200

EcoSport 1.0 EcoBoost Titanium 6-speed manual                      R357 000

EcoSport 1.5 Ambiente 6-speed automatic                                 R297 600

EcoSport 1.0 EcoBoost Trend 6-speed automatic                         R333 900

EcoSport 1.0 EcoBoost Titanium 6-speed automatic                    R370 400

The exclusive nature of the 1 471kW two-seater means every customer journey is unique. Requests for personalisation on every aspect of the Evija – from exterior paint colour combinations to interior trim – are all part of the enhanced ordering process.

Different to a tee

Production of the hypercar will start later this year, and the first year’s allocation is already designated to customers around the world.

The starting point for every car’s specification is an all-new touch-screen configurator. Designed especially for Lotus, its ultra-powerful graphics processor creates stunning high-definition ‘photo-realistic’ images and animations.

Developed using advanced gaming software, these allow the buyer to build and personalise their own car from the ground up and visualise it from every angle, inside and out.

Exclusive and advanced

Thanks to an advanced imaging technique known as ray-tracing, they can even place their Evija into multiple environments around the world to see how localised sunlight levels will affect their choices. The final element is the creation of a fully personalised ‘360 degree fly-through’ film exclusive to each customer.

At regular intervals during the purchase process, each customer will receive from Lotus a unique gift to reflect the exclusive and technical nature of the Evija.

That will culminate in a beautiful hand-crafted build book, packed with stunning imagery of the customer’s individual car during key moments of its assembly. The book will be presented to the customer with their Evija key as part of the handover celebrations.

“We know every customer journey will be unique and our highly experienced customer relations team is ready to support any requests,” says Simon Clare, Executive Director, Global Marketing, Lotus.

“With state-of-the-art digital tools such as the new configurator, we can accommodate customer preferences and requirements from anywhere in the world at the touch of a button,” Clare added.