Top 12 Tested New Cars in South Africa for 2022
2022 saw a number of manufacturers introducing new models or face-lifted vehicles to the market.
iloveza.com's Top 12 Tested New Cars in South Africa for 2022
We tested many of them, and have put together a list of our favourite 12 for 2022. The full list of all the new vehicles launched this year can be found HERE or at the end of this article.
In alphabetical order of manufacturer here are our Top 12 Tested New Cars in South Africa for 2022:
1. BMW M240i xDrive Coupé
The All-New BMW 2 series coupé is definitely a head-turner. We received a lot of attention driving through the west coast of South Africa at the launch of the vehicle, as well as during our time spent in Gauteng with it. The M240i xDrive was our favourite of the range with its powerful 285kW M-Performance in-line 6 cylinder 3.0l engine, and the engineering and technology which we see in the new 4 series. The base price tag of R1,1 million for the features, comfort and performance is the reason it's on our Top 12 for 2022.
2. Ford Ranger Stormtrak 2.0L BiTurbo Diesel Double Cab 10AT 4x4
Ford had a few special edition Ranger models launched this year, including the Raptor SE, FX4, and the Stormtrak. The Stormtrak stood out for us with the eye-catching design - the black mesh grille with red inserts on the side, the Stormtrak logo on the side and rear as well as on the driver and front passenger seat and dashboard, the red stitching throughout the interior, the racing stripes on the bonnet, the black 18 inch wheels, and one of our favourites - the power roller shutter for the loading bin which can be controlled from the key fob, inside the bin, or from the interior by the driver. Connecting to The FordPass App was also a great feature which we enjoyed. Although it is priced slightly more than the Wildtrak (R773 100 - 4x2 and R832 100 - 4x4) starting at R815 100 for the 4x2 and R874 100 for the 4x4, the extra features and personality that the Stormtrak has make up for the price difference, and that's why it's featured on our Top 12 for 2022.
3. Jaguar E-PACE R-Dynamic D200 HSE AWD
The Jaguar E-PACE R-Dynamic D200 HSE AWD which was launched in 2021, but is still new in the Jaguar fleet finds its way into our Top 12 for 2022 because it's packed with everything a young family would need in a compact performance SUV. A few features which we enjoyed were the adaptive cruise control which meant the E-PACE would automatically decelerate (when there was a car or object in front of it) and accelerate (when the road is clear) back to the required speed by itself once you have selected your limit for the cruise control. Another great feature is the Cabin Air Ionisation which detects harmful pollutants which enter the vehicle, and automatically improves the air quality to reduce allergens, airborne bacterias, and certain odours. The electrically deployable towbar is also on the list of impressive features, as the tow-bar is already built-in and is hidden until you deploy it. The base price tag of R1.1 million for this premium compact performance SUV might not make it the most competitive in it's category, but the high-quality standard of vehicle that Jaguar produces, it's a crime to not have it on our Top 12 for 2022.
4. Kia Carnival 2.2 CRDI SXL AT 7 Seater
Kia were very busy this year with the launch of the Kia Sonet Turbo, the new Sportage, the new Sorento, and the all-new Carnival. We tested all except the Sportage, and were highly impressed with the Sorento and Carnival, and one of them was going to make it on to our Top 12 list for 2022. The Carnival pipped the Sorento to the post mainly because of the comfort factor. Being an MPV (multi-purpose vehicle) as opposed to the SUV (sport utility vehicle) which the Sorento is, the Carnival had a bit of an upper hand. The technology and features are similar across both the Carnival and Sorento, but the Carnival has extra cabin space, leg room, and has the ability to fold the third row seats into a specially designed compartment which does not take up any extra floor or luggage space once folded. The rides are also similar, together with the key fob engine start button for both the Sorento and Carnival, although the Carnival features power sliding rear doors which can be controlled on the key fob and in the vehicle. The Carnival's pricing starts at R824 999 and the top of the range is R1 049 995 which is similar to the Sorento's pricing of R834 995 - R1 019 995, so if you are looking for a 7 Seater and have a bigger family, these are the two contenders, but we preferred the Carnival, and that's why it has made it on to our Top 12 for 2022.
5. Mahindra Pik Up S11 4x4 DC Karoo
Mahindra have also launched a few new vehicles this year, but the workhorse Pik Up S11 4x4 Karoo DC (Double Cab) is one that we enjoyed testing this year. The striking exterior design with the Karoo badged nudge bar and rollbars, the roller shutter on the load bin, colour coded wheel arches, and the Karoo decals on the doors give it a strong new look. The load bin is quite a good size, and the 4x4 capabilities are great. The S6 4x2 DC Karoo MT is priced at R397 999 while the top of the range S11 4x4 DC Karoo AT which we tested is only R509 999, which are very competitive prices for the Double Cab segment and is the reason we see it on our Top 12 of 2022.
6. Mazda CX-5 2.5L Individual AWD
Mazda have introduced a face-lifted CX-5 this year, and we tested the 2.5L individual AWD. The 2.5L has a significant amount of more power than the standard 2.0L engine producing 143kW over the standard 121kW, and we think it's the right fit for the CX-5. The new design headlights, and rear lights give it a fresh new look, and what we like about Mazda is that they never over-complicate the cabin with fancy buttons or features, and keep a similar design throughout the range for uniformity of the Mazda fleet. The AWD (All-Wheel Drive) 2.5L Individual has many features including a 360 degree view monitor, a crystal clear BOSE sound system with 10 speakers, Head-Up Display, power slide and tilt sunroof, as well as safety features like the blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert, and an alert which we found rather useful which notifies you to have a break in your journey if you are travelling non-stop for too long. The new Zircon Sand colour which we tested was also a nice addition to the Mazda colour palette. The Mazda CX-5 starts from R515 600 with the 2.5L Individual AWD priced at R729 500.
7. Mercedes-Benz C220d (AMG Line)
The Baby S Class as it has been dubbed is the all-new Mercedes-Benz C Class. The advanced technology and features which the new C Class offers definitely puts it in a league of its own. With collision alerts which are activated even during heavy Gauteng hail storms, to the interactive display screens, and the futuristic dials and buttons, the new C Class is in a class above the rest. The ride is so smooth you actually feel that you are gliding along the road, which actually resembles the drive of what you would be used to in a S Class. The new shape and slightly longer wheelbase makes the cabin and boot a bit more wider and spacious than the predecessor. New ambient interior colours and themes also liven up the C Class, and the panaromic sunroof is a great addition for those long road trips with the family. The AMG Line which we tested had the distinctive AMG bodystyling and the bold diamond grille. The new augmented reality for the navigation system is one of the latest technology update which we enjoyed. The New Mercedes-Benz C Class was definitely one of our favourites for 2022 on our Top 12 list. The C200 pricing starts from R880 000 while the C220d pricing starts at R950 650.
8. Peugeot Landtrek Allure 1.9L 6AT 4x2
Peugeot have made a big entry back into the bakkie (pick-up) segment with the Landtrek and have landed a spot on our Top 12 of 2022. The Peugeot Landtrek luxury double cab which is almost like an SUV with a load bin. The smooth tarred road ride together with the rugged off-road capabilities gives the Landtrek the edge in the luxury double cab market. The 110kw 1.9l 6AT (6 speed automatic transmission) 4x2 which we tested was very spacious and comfortable especially on long distances, that we almost forgot that we were driving a bakkie. The ground clearance is very good, and adds to the comfort levels as there is more height and your vision of the road ahead is made much clearer. Another SUV like feature is the different driving modes from, eco, normal, and sport. Many features which Peugeot has in its SUV range are carried over to the Landtrek which make it easier for the transition back into the segment. The Peugeot Landtrek Allure Double Cab 1.9L 4x2 comes in at a very competitive price of R599 900, while the Peugeot Landtrek 4Action Double Cab 1.9L 4x4 is just as competitively priced at R689 900.
9. Range Rover Evoque R-Dynamic D200 HSE AWD
The Range Rover Evoque R-Dynamic D200 HSE AWD made it on to our Top 12 list for 2022 because it is still one of the best designed compact performance SUVs in South Africa. Although it is quite similar to the Jaguar E-PACE in terms of the engine performance and powertrain with the 2.0l diesel producing 146kW, the Evoque still has its own style and personality. The bronze moulding inserts on the exterior and the two-toned roof already set it apart, and unlike the E-PACE where the full panaromic sunroof shutter only rolls back, the Evoque allows the sunroof to slide open and tilt giving it a sportier urban look. The Matrix LED headlights are actually quite a highlight for the vehicle. They are so powerful thats we hardly used the brights even while driving through dark towns during loadshedding. When they are needed the brights automatically switch on, and go off at any sign of increased road lighting or oncoming headlights. The signature DRL (day time running lights) also add to the overall aesthetics of the car, and the concealed door handles gives a nice finish to the overall design. The new Range Rover Evoque is also priced slightly above the R1.1 million mark, but is worth it.
10. Renault Triber Prestige (Intens) 1.0-litre
Renault have had a few of their budget models launched recently, and we tested the Kiger, Kwid Climber and the Triber this year. The Triber stood out for us, and has made it on to our Top 12 of 2022 list. A good 7 seater family vehicle on a tight budget is hard to find, but Renault have managed to produced one. The 1.0l 3 cylinder 52kw engine is not the fastest in town, but it will definitely get you in and around town comfortably and economically. The Triber has two seating options, the 5 or the 7 seater mode. The third row of seats can be removed from the vehicle completely to give extra luggage space if there are not many passengers. The best part of the Triber is the price which starts with the base model from R200 999, and the top of the range from R236 999. The Renault Triber Prestige 1.0 litre which we tested featured in the video above is priced from R226 999.
11. Suzuki Baleno 1.5 GLX AT
Another one of the well-priced models on our Top 12 for 2022 is the new Suzuki Baleno. The new Suzuki Baleno which is similar to the Toyota Starlet is very different, if that makes sense. Suzuki has added extra features in the Baleno which won't be found in the Starlet which Suzuki are manufacturing for Toyota. The Heads-up display and 360 degree view camera are two features that are normally seen in the more expensive premium vehicles in the market and Suzuki has managed to added it in the new Baleno, and still keep their pricing so low. The 77kW 1.5l engine has a nice kick, and makes it easy to get around the city very quickly without any hassles. The new LED projector headlights, and DRL on the GLX model is also a nice addition. Together with the 9 inch infotainment system, and new rear lights they give the Baleno almost an unfair advantage over their competitors because this hatch looks superb inside and out. As we said the price is one of the main reasons it made it on to our Top 12 this year with the base GL model starting at R231 900, and the top of the range Suzuki Baleno 1.5 GLX AT which we tested from R281 900.
12. Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8XR CVT Hybrid Vehicle
Last on our Top 12 of 2022 list this year, is a car that does not need an introduction as it is a clear winner this year after being named the South African Car of the Year for 2022. The Toyota Corolla Cross also picked up the Compact Family Category Award, and the Corolla Cross Hybrid won the New Energy Category Award. The Corolla Cross 1.8XR CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) Hybrid is the vehicle we tested, and we were very impressed. The vehicle is extremely silent when it starts you actually forget if you have switched the ignition on. Hybrids have come along way since the Prius, which to be honest was not the best looking, but the Corolla Cross Hybrid still has the same good looks as the Corolla Cross, and is more eco-friendly and friendly on your pocket in terms of fuel consumption with an estimated 4.3l/ 100km. The power of the vehicle is what stood out the most, as the switch between battery and engine is seamless. If you are travelling at low speeds the vehicle runs on an electric motor which never needs to be plugged in, and when you need to accelerate it either switches to the petrol engine which produces 103kW, or uses both to give maximum performance with an output of about 90kW combined, but is really powerful and picks up speed relatively quickly as you accelerate. The interior of the Corolla Cross Hybrid is also well designed and the blue and green lights are a nice touch to the overall eco-friendly look and feel. The Corolla Cross 1.8 Xi CVT base model pricing starts from R360 400, and the top of the range Corolla Cross 1.8XR CVT HV which we tested is priced from R461 700.
New Cars Launched in South Africa in 2022
1. Alfa Romeo Giulia
2. Alfa Romeo Stelvio
3. Alfa Romeo Tonale Hybrid
4. Audi e-Tron
5. Audi e-Tron GT
6. Audi e-Tron Sportback
7. Audi RS3
8. Audi RS3 Sportback
9. BAIC Beijing X55
10. BMW 2 Series Coupé
11. BMW 7 Series
12. BMW i4
13. BMW iX3
14. BMW M2
15. BMW M4 CSL
16. BMW X7
17. BMW XM
18. Chery Tiggo 4 Pro
19. Chery Tiggo 7 Pro
20. Chery Tiggo 8 Pro
21. Ford EcoSport Active
22. Ford Everest
23. Ford Mustang
24. Ford Ranger Wildtrak
25. Ford Ranger Raptor
26. Haval H6 Hybrid
27. Haval H6 GT
28. Honda BR-V
29. Honda Civic RS
30. Honda HR-V
31. Hyundai Creta
32. Hyundai Grand Creta
33. Hyundai i30N
34. Hyundai Kona N
35. Hyundai Tucson
36. Hyundai Venue
37. Isuzu D-Max
38. Jeep Gladiator
39. Jeep Grand Cherokee L
40. Kia Carnival
41. Kia Sorento
42. Kia Sportage
43. Kia Sonet Turbo
44. Land Rover Defender I30
45. Range Rover
46. Range Rover Sport
47. Lexus LX
48. Lexus NX
49. Mahindra Pik-Up Dusk/Dawn/Storm
50. Mahindra XUV300
51. Mahindra XUV700
52. Mazda CX-5
53. Mercedes-Benz C Class
54. Mercedes-Benz EQA
55. Mercedes-Benz EQC
56. Mercedes-Benz EQS
57. Mercedes-Benz S Class
58. Mitsubishi ASX ES
59. Nissan Qashqai
60. Opel Mokka
61. Opel Zafira Life
62. Porsche 911 GT3
63. Porsche Cayman GT4 RS
64. Proton X50
65. Proton X70
66. Renault Clio 5
67. Subaru Forester
68. Subaru WRX
69. Suzuki Baleno
70. Suzuki Celerio
71. Suzuki Ertiga
72. Toyota 86 GR
73. Toyota Corolla Cross GR-S
74. Toyota C-HR
75. Toyota Hilux GR-S
76. Toyota Starlet
77. Toyota Supra GR
78. Volkswagen Golf R
79. Volkswagen Polo Sedan
80. Volkswagen Taigo
81. Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace
82. Volkswagen Caddy
83. Volvo XC40 P8 Recharge
84. Volvo XC60 T8 Recharge
85. Volvo XC90 T8 Recharge
Ziyaad Plaatjes is the Co-Founder of iloveza.com & Let's Torque ZA, who was named one of Mail & Guardian's Top 200 Young South Africans in the Arts, Entertainment, Film & Media Category.
He is a Bachelor of Commerce Honours graduate and has been running businesses since the age of 13. Ziyaad is a social media fundi and content creator, but has taken on many roles in various industries over the years. With his entrepreneurial skills and vast knowledge he assists individuals and businesses to grow and achieve their goals.
Find him at: Instagram: @ziyaad_86 / @ilovezacom Twitter: @ziyaad86 / @ilovezacom Facebook: iloveza.com LinkedIn: Ziyaad Plaatjes / iloveza.com YouTube: iloveza.com SoundCloud: iloveza.com TikTok: @ilovezacom E-mail: ziyaad@iloveza.com
