For the Volkswagen brand, the letter ‘R’ is associated with the pinnacle in performance. October 2022 and early 2023 will see the launch of the Tiguan R and Golf R in the South African market.
Since the Golf R’s launch in South Africa in 2007, it has sold close to 6 000 units. The new Volkswagen Golf R is said to be the most powerful hatchback that the group has launched to date.
The new Golf 8 R’s drive technology tops everything that has been launched in the Golf model range up until now with a 2-litre four-cylinder engine with 400 Nm and a 0-100 time of just 4.8 seconds.
The Golf has a 4MOTION system with R-Performance Torque Vectoring and it has a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox (DSG).
Standard features in the new Golf 8 R include mobile inductive charging, panoramic sunroof, Keyless Entry with safe lock and an electric tailgate and luggage compartment, ‘Discover Pro’ system with satellite navigation, Wireless App-Connect and Voice Control, 19-inch Estoril alloy wheels, Adaptive Chassis Control including driving profile selection, Light and Vision Package including high- beam control light assist, Nappa leather seats as well as a choice of three exterior colours (Pure White, Lapiz Blue Metallic and Deep Black Pearl).
Hot on the heels of the Golf R is the new Tiguan R, touted as Volkswagen SA’s most powerful SUV.
With a power output of 235 kW and 400 Nm, the Tiguan R accelerates to 100 km/h in 5.1 seconds. Featuring a 4MOTION all-wheel drive system, the Tiguan R has a top speed of 250 km/h.
The extended technical Tiguan R equipment includes a powerful 18-inch brake system with blue brake callipers (with the R logo at the front), a DCC chassis (with adaptively controlled shock absorbers) lowered by 10 mm and a driving profile selection enhanced for the Tiguan R with an additional R profile.
This sporty mode can be activated by means of a blue R button on the new multi-function sports steering wheel. This is also equipped with separate large paddles for manual control of the 7-speed DSG gearbox.
Dunlop Tyres South Africa has completed a R1.7 billion investment programme at its uMnambithi (Ladysmith) manufacturing facility, introducing new manufacturing technology and expanding production capabilities at the plant.
Mahindra & Mahindra has unveiled the Scorpio Lifestyler, a midsize lifestyle bakkie derived from the Global Pik Up concept first shown in Cape Town in 2023.
The South African automotive industry has gained some breathing space following the latest move by the United States Senate to extend the African Growth and Opportunity Act, or AGOA, to the end of 2028.
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Cars are the ultimate symbol of freedom, independence and individualism. They offer the freedom to ‘go anywhere,’ whenever it suits and with whom one chooses.
Sarah Redshaw
Mahindra & Mahindra has unveiled the Scorpio Lifestyler, a midsize lifestyle bakkie derived from the Global Pik Up concept first shown in Cape Town in 2023.
Mazda Southern Africa has announced the arrival of all‑new Mazda CX‑5, available for pre‑order during July and August, with first deliveries expected from September. The latest generation introduces updated design, technology, safety and performance, while continuing the CX‑5’s role as one of Mazda’s most important global SUVs.
Audi South Africa has expanded its compact SUV line-up with the introduction of the new Q2 S line derivative.
