Normally, the dual purpose nature of an SUV (sport utility vehicle) refers to its ability to go both on and off road, but the recent launches by Maserati and BMW and other models on offer by Porsche, Lamborghini, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Jaguar, Jeep, Bentley, Alfa Romeo and Aston Martin have added the ability to go really fast to that description.
Maserati last month launched its Uber-SUV, the Ferrari-engined Levante Trofeo, while BMW introduced the M-versions of its X5 and X6, in Competition guise no less, at the same time.
Levante Trofeo: From R3 790 000
As is traditional for this brand, the Levante Trofeo is first recognised by its sonorous soundtrack and then the design. Four exhausts, additional carbon fibre trim, 21”wheels, a new bonnet design and larger air dams distinguish it from lesser models.
The Levante Trofeo SUV delivers 440 kW and 730 Nm to all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic gearbox. The engine is a 3.8 litre V8 built for them by Ferrari. The 0-100 km/h run for this two-tonne beast is dealt with in just 3.9 seconds and top speed is 304 km/h.
BMW added the M emblem to its original X5 and the luxurious M6, with both models making their local debut in July.
BMW X5 M: From R2 605 900 and BMW X6 M: From R2 707 200
This is the third generation of these beasts from Bavaria. Both models are equipped with BMW’s proven 4.4 litre V8, which delivers 460 kW and 750 Nm through an eight speed gearbox to all four wheels, albeit with a rear-wheel bias. BMW says that this is a healthy 37 kW more than its predecessor.
In Competition spec, both models have all the best M-parts fitted, including M-spec steering, suspension, differential and Dynamic Stability Control. Acceleration is pegged at 3.8 seconds to 100 km/h, while top speed is governed to 250 km/h.
Daimler Truck Southern Africa (DTSA) has announced the appointment of Wolf Edmayr as its new General Manager of its used truck and bus division: TruckStore, effective 1 April 2025.
The new Volvo EX90, the Swedish brand’s all-electric luxury SUV, has arrived in South Africa. The new electric flagship of the manufacturer will set new standards in refinement and luxury, says Volvo.
Super Group, the JSE-listed supply chain, fleet management and dealership group, says the 0.5 percentage point reduction in the prime lending rate in the six months to end-December 2024 is starting to affect both new and used vehicle sales levels.
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Henry Ford
The new Volvo EX90, the Swedish brand’s all-electric luxury SUV, has arrived in South Africa. The new electric flagship of the manufacturer will set new standards in refinement and luxury, says Volvo.
Nissan and Premcar have launched the Navara PRO-4X Warrior – a vehicle purpose-built for the most demanding on- and off-road conditions South Africa has to offer.
Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) announced the arrival of the Fortuner GR-S, now officially on sale. This new variant takes the iconic Fortuner to new heights, with unmatched off-road capability, more performance and bold, sporty styling.
