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.
VSL Manufacturing officially unveiled its new R750 million, purpose-built manufacturing facility adjacent to the Isuzu Motors South Africa (IMSAf) assembly plant in Struandale, marking a major milestone for South Africa’s automotive value chain, black industrialisation, and the Eastern Cape’s manufacturing ecosystem.
FAW Trucks Southern Africa recently welcomed the extended Southern African regional dealer network and teams as well as country managers, sales directors and technical heads from across the continent to its flagship manufacturing facility in the Coega Industrial Development Zone for the 2025 Export Dealer Conference.
With a passion for the brand and a commitment to delivering the best service and community involvement, MG’s new flagship dealer in Fourways is ready to take the iconic nameplate to new heights.
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I always do like seeing other people dance in their cars. It's one of the things that makes me happy.
Ariel Gore
With Dongfeng entering South Africa a couple of weeks ago and with four dealerships operational now, it is interesting to look at the Chinese brand and its joint venture with Nissan (Dongfeng Nissan Passenger Vehicle Company - DFN), launching the new Teana at the Guangzhou Motor Show in China for the Chinese market.
Nissan Egypt is redefining sustainable mobility in Africa with the introduction of its third-generation e-Power technology used on the Nissan Qashqai and the opportunity to test drive the iconic new Patrol for the first time in Africa.
Nissan’s new Navara bakkie has been unveiled in Australia, and not in the cards for South Africa.
