Driving Impressions

JOHANNESBURG, Gauteng – Life’s not easy for C-segment hatchbacks at the moment. South African buyers – just like the majority of their global counterparts – continue to turn to the all-conquering crossover in droves, leaving most traditional family hatches floundering near the ...

MUNICH, Germany - In 2010, a now regularly cited study revealed 80% of BMW 1 Series owners thought their cars were driven by their front wheels. This may have played a role in BMW deciding to switch from rear- to front-wheel drive for its new entry-level range. The more likely reasons are cost considerations, ...

The original Mini is the celebrated hero of the working class. We jumped behind the wheel of a Cooper S to celebrate its global impact... Over its 41-year lifecycle, the original Mini was a Jack of all trades: an everyday car of the people, star of the silver screen and champion on the racetrack. Where ...

FIFE, Scotland – What the purists don’t mention when demanding new models created specifically with them in mind is that, in modern terms, a “purist’s” car is actually a bit of a chore to drive. Yes, words like “engaging” and “visceral” often best ...

MPUMALANGA – Recently, we were invited to join Haval South Africa on its 2019 Outreach Expedition, this year set in the beautiful province of Mpumalanga. Arriving at Nelspruit Airport, the group of motoring journalists was greeted by a convoy of various Haval SUV offerings, as well as a GWM bakkie.  ...

BOTSWANA – Standing on the majestic salt flats of Makgadikgadi I observe something that is tragically absent from modern-day life: absolute silence. The kind of stillness and peace that cuts to the soul and makes one re-evaluate life. A few metres behind me, with its wheels planted firmly on the ...

CHOBE, Botswana – Thanks to its success in the Dakar Rally (and similarly gruelling off-road events), Toyota Gazoo Racing has become something of household name in recent years. And with the Hilux now celebrating 50 years of service in South Africa, it’s the perfect time to launch the GR-Sport ...

CAPE TOWN – Buyers looking for a small hatchback are currently rather spoiled for choice. There’s the ubiquitous Volkswagen Polo, the dynamic Ford Fiesta and, for those who like to stand out, the stylish Mazda2. Of course, I’m sure you can think of a few more rivals from Japan and South ...

PORT ELIZABETH – This is undoubtedly a very exciting time for bakkie enthusiasts in South Africa. Indeed, never before has there been such a wide variety of pick-up models in our market. There are turbocharged V6 derivatives (watch VW's Amarok V6 take on the Mercedes-Benz X350d in a drag race here) ...