Latest news with #CitizenMotoring
The Citizen
11-07-2025
- Automotive
- The Citizen
What you need to know before taking your Ford Ranger off-road
If you stick to a few basic rules, you'll stay safe and preserve the environment. It's already month three of our time with the Ford Ranger XLT. And we are racking up the miles all over the place. One thing South Africa offers is some beautiful outdoor escapes and some rugged terrain thrown in for good measure. This country is a paradise for off-road enthusiasts. And the Ranger bakkie is built to go off-road. Proper off-road driving, not dirt road and game reserve stuff, demands not only a capable vehicle like the Ford Ranger. But it also requires that you have some skill, are prepared, and that you respect the nature around you. So, whether you're joining a local 4×4 club for a weekend trail or planning an extended overland expedition, understanding the fundamentals of off-road driving is crucial to ensuring safety, preserving the environment and maximising enjoyment. The Citizen Motoring has compiled an easy list of things you need to know to make the most out of your bakkie. Understanding your Ford Ranger The foundation for off-roading starts with knowing your vehicle's capabilities and limitations. Familiarise yourself with your vehicle's 4×4 drive capabilities (4H, 4L), diff locks, traction control systems, ground clearance, as well as approach and departure angles. The Ford Ranger has an impressive front approach angle of 30 degrees and rear departure angle of 25.6 degrees – the latter is 23 degrees when a towbar is fitted. Certain models, such as Tremor, Wildtrak and Platinum offer an on-demand four-wheel drive system. This system offers 2H, 4A, 4H, and 4L. Modern 4x4s often come equipped with advanced Terrain Management Systems, and for Ford Ranger this comprises Normal, Eco, Tow/Haul, Slippery, Mud/Ruts, Sand and Rock Crawl modes. The Ford Ranger XL, XLT and Wildtrak feature an electronic rear-differential lock. The Ford Ranger Raptor is equipped with a front and rear differential lock for extra traction. Reading the terrain Learning to 'read' the terrain ahead, whether it's assessing how deep a mud patch is or how loose gravel might affect grip, can be the difference between a successful climb and getting stuck. Certain Ford Ranger models are equipped with the off-road SYNC screen with a 360-degree camera system that makes manoeuvring in tight spaces an absolute cinch. Also available on certain Ford Ranger models is the new Trail Turn Assist feature. This system applies the brakes to the inside wheel when negotiating tight bends in off-road conditions below 19km/h. Reducing the vehicle's turning radius by up to 25% to help navigate around obstacles. Throttle control and momentum Gentle, steady throttle control is essential. The golden rule of 4x4ing safely is tackling challenges or obstacles 'as slow as possible, and as fast as necessary'. In many cases, too much power can cause wheels to spin and lose traction. Understanding when to use momentum such as driving in sand dunes and when to take it slow such as descending a rocky slope is the key to safe and efficient driving. Here certain Ford Ranger models offer Hill Descent Control and selectable driving modes to easily facilitate such tasks. Know how to recover your Ford Ranger Even the most skilled drivers can get stuck. Basic recovery skills and equipment are essential. These includes knowing how to use a recovery strap, and where to find your recovery points. Every Ford Ranger has a recovery point, and certain models have dual recovery points. Never go off-roading alone; having another vehicle nearby can be a lifeline in tricky situations. ALSO READ: Easy-going Ford Ranger XLT the perfect camping companion Top tips for a safe and enjoyable off-road experience Before you hit the trails, here are some essential tips to help you stay safe, protect the environment and make the most of your journey. Tyre pressure matters: Adjusting your tyre pressure can significantly improve traction. Lowering it slightly when driving on sand or rocky surfaces increases the tyre's contact patch, enhancing grip. Just remember to inflate them again before returning to the road. Pack smart: Always carry basic recovery gear (snatch strap, shackles, spade), a first-aid kit, air compressor, and enough water and food. A GPS, maps and a reliable communication device (like a satellite phone or two-way radio) are also highly recommended, especially in remote areas. Tread lightly: Respect the environment. Stay on designated trails to avoid damaging sensitive ecosystems and always leave a place as you found it. Join a community: Off-road clubs, like the Ford Adventure Club and forums are great places to learn, share experiences and find adventure companions. They also host regular training days and events to help drivers improve their skills in a safe and supportive environment. ALSO READ: Even without a fancy badge, Ford Ranger XLT is a lot of bakkie Ford adventure club For customers purchasing new Ford 4×4 vehicles, the Ford Adventure Club offers complimentary level 1 training. This course is included as part of the vehicle purchase and is valid for 12 months from the date of purchase. The training is specifically designed for owners of Ford Ranger and Ford Everest 4×4 vehicles, as well as the Raptor.
The Citizen
05-07-2025
- Automotive
- The Citizen
PODCAST: Chery Tiggo Cross takes fight to Toyota Corolla Cross
Chinese carmaker claims that their new hybrid SUV is both fast and very frugal. When Toyota updated the Corolla Cross at the start of the year, The Citizen Motoring said that the crossover SUV has dodged the Chinese bullet. Not anymore with the introduction of the Chery Tiggo Cross hybrid. The Chinese carmaker has launched a massive price offensive on the Toyota Corolla Cross, the best-selling new energy vehicle in South Africa by a country mile. The Tiggo Cross self-charging hybrid is now on sale from R439 900, which is R54 500 less than the most affordable Corolla Cross HEV in Xs guise at R494 400. Even the top spec Chery Tiggo Cross hybrid in Elite guise at R469 900 is still R24 500 cheaper than the Xs hybrid. ALSO READ: Hybrid Tiggo Cross declares war on Toyota Corolla Cross Chery Tiggo Cross makes a Pitstop In this week's episode of the Pitstop podcast, we discuss what the emergence of the Chery means for Toyota. The Chery Tiggo Cross hybrid uses a combination of a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine and electric motor powered by a 1.83kWh battery pack. The combined power output is an impressive 150kW and 310Nm which is sent to the front wheels by a dedicated hybrid transmission. The Toyota Corolla Cross has a combined power output of 90kW/142Nm. The Citizen Motoring drive the Chery Tiggo Cross hybrid briefly in China in April, but not on a public road. A little gymkhana course in a parking lot was enough to showcase its power. Fuel economy key What will be key for Chery is what kind of fuel economy it can achieve in real life. The claim is 5.4 litres per 100km, which is very much on par with the real-life number we have recorded in the Toyota Corolla Cross. We are getting a Chery Tiggo Cross hybrid on test soon. We will then find how not just how fast, but also how frugal it really is.
The Citizen
04-07-2025
- Automotive
- The Citizen
Six things you need to know about the new Omoda C9 PHEV
Bang for your buck SUV is said to sprint from 0 to 100km/h in only 4.8 seconds. The Omoda C9 plug-in hybrid (PHEV) was introduced alongside the petrol-powered version last month. The PHEV is not only more frugal than the standard C9, but also a lot faster. Add to that all the luxurious bells and whistles and comprehensive safety systems and the Omoda C9 PHEV offers a bang for you buck package. The Citizen Motoring looks at six key features of this SUV. Impressive performance and fuel economy The Omoda C9 PHEV combines the convenience of a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with the efficiency of electric power to produce an incredible 400kW of power and 915Nm of torque. This in turn translates into a claimed 0-100 km/h time of just 4.9 seconds and a combined fuel consumption figure of a mere 1.4-litres per 100km. Omoda C9 PHEV charging and range The 34.5kWh battery pack can be recharged in 5.5 hours when connected to a home charging wall box. Or even quicker thanks to its 70kW fast-charging capability, where the battery can be charged from 30-80% in 25 minutes when plugged into a DC public fast charger. With a WLTP-estimated all-electric range of 150km, the Omoda C9 PHEV provides one of the highest all-electric range figures of any plug-in hybrid vehicle currently sold in South Africa. ALSO READ: Plug-in Jaecoo J7 and Omoda C9's shock goes further than power Standard features and infotainment The Omoda C9 PHEV is equipped with every bell and whistle you can think of as standard. There are no add on cost options to tick. You get heated and electrically adjustable Nappa leather seats in the front and the rear. Plus, a heated and electrically adjustable steering wheel, also trimmed in Nappa leather. Dual-zone climate control that offers passengers in the rear their own air-conditioning control panel. The dash reveals dual 12.3-inch screens, one being the digital cluster, and the other the infotainment and control display. This screen provides access to various vehicle functions, including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and Intelligent Voice Command. A 12-speaker Sony sound system, wireless charging pad, and multi-colour ambient lighting adds to the cabin's ambience. A panoramic glass sunroof said to bath the cabin in natural light rounds out just some of the premium features. Omoda C9 PHEV practical and convenient Keyless entry, push-button start, and remote start ensure a seamless entry experience, while convenience features like rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlights, and automatic folding mirrors are also to be found on the Omoda C9 PHEV. Additional practical touches include a heated and cooled storage compartment and a 60:40 split-folding rear bench, expanding the already generous 660-litre luggage capacity to 1 783-litres when folded flat. Safety and security The Omoda C9 PHEV has been engineered to adhere to the strictest crash safety standards. It offers driver aids such as Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic Emergency Braking and Driver Fatigue Monitoring. Passive safety features include dual front, front side, side curtain, driver knee, and bolster airbags, while ISOFIX child seat anchorages ensure that passengers, whether infants or adults, are kept safe while travelling. A head-up display means the driver never needs to take their eyes off the road. ALSO READ: Omoda C9 makes its point as 'new' standard in Chinese luxury Pricing and warranty The new Omoda C9 PHEV retails for R999 000, making it one of the best priced SUVs in its class. Pricing includes a seven-year/100 000km service plan, a seven-year/200 000km vehicle warranty, and 10-year/one-million km engine warranty. Added to this is a 10-year/200 000km warranty for certain electric drive unit components and a 10-year/unlimited km power battery pack warranty for the first owner, reverting to 10-year/200 000km for subsequent owners. Buyers also receive seven years of roadside assistance, offering added peace of mind and enhanced ownership value.
The Citizen
18-05-2025
- Automotive
- The Citizen
Toyota Gazoo Racing Hilux pair ready for Mzansi Safari Rally
Saood Variawa and Guy Botterill geared up for World Rally-Raid Championship race. Toyota Gazoo Racing South Africa (TGRSA) is returning to international competition as the team takes on Round 3 of the 2025 World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC) in the South African Safari Rally which will be based in and around Sun City. This event not only marks the first African round of the 2025 W2RC season, but it is also the first ever W2RC round to take place in Southern Africa. The Citizen Motoring will be right there in the thick of the action when the chequered flag comes down on Saturday. TGRSA fields two locally-prepared GR Toyota Hilux EVOs, driven by Saood Variawa and Guy Botterill, respectively. Variawa, partnered by French navigator Francois Cazalet, currently sits 14th in the W2RC drivers' championship with 17 points. Botterill, who raced in this year's Dakar Rally, as well as the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge, will be partnered by Dennis Murphy. ALSO READ: Evo Plus Ford Ranger out to challenge Gazoo Racing Toyota Hilux Toyota Hilux gets special livery 'We decided to pay homage to the typical South African safari vehicle, with the livery of our cars for this race,' explains TGRSA team principal, Shameer Variawa. 'When you go to the bush, you will find beige-coloured game viewers or ranger support vehicles more often than not. Given that we will be racing in that same terrain this coming week, we felt that it was apt to reflect the African heritage in our liveries. Remember, this is not a bakkie – it's a Hilux!' In terms of refinements to the vehicle, Variawa says that the GR Toyota Hilux EVO will sport several upgraded components, as well as a refined suspension setup for the race. 'This is terrain that we are very familiar with, and we know how to extract the most from our cars here on home ground.' Five full stages The rally begins with a 9km Prologue stage on Monday which will determine the starting order for Stage 1. The event then unfolds over five competitive stages, totalling more than 1 200km of timed specials and covering over 2 600km in total. Each day presents a fresh test for competitors, both in terms of speed and navigation. The terrain across the event will include fast gravel roads, rocky outcrops, soft sand, and dry riverbeds -demanding a versatile setup and a strategic mindset. Sections around Thabazimbi, Mafikeng, and Stella will present both high-speed opportunities and navigation traps, while the closing stages will wind back into the rugged bushveld near Sun City. ALSO READ: Toyota Hilux Legend 55 arriving in July – what we know so far Committed to rally-raid Weather forecasts indicate clear skies and mild autumn conditions, with temperatures expected to hover in the mid-20 degrees during the day. These dry conditions should favour high-speed racing, though dust could be a factor, particularly for crews starting deeper in the field. 'To us, partnering with the organisers to bring the South African Safari Rally to life, is an opportunity to underscore our commitment to rally-raid racing, to motorsport as a whole, but also to the many South African Toyota Hilux fans,' says Glenn Crompton, senior vice-president of marketing for Toyota South Africa Motors. 'Beyond our sponsorship of the event, we are looking forward to seeing our newly liveried GR Toyota Hilux EVOs take on the global competition on home soil and we can't wait to see them in action.'
The Citizen
12-05-2025
- Automotive
- The Citizen
Volvo XC60 shows why plug-in hybrids are the way to go
PHEV's running costs just R1.11 per kilometre compared to traditional SUV's R1.70. The Volvo XC60 Recharge offers the best of both worlds. Picture: Volvo The migration from internal combustion engine cars (ICE) to new energy offerings is gradually picking up speed in South Africa. Hybrids (HEV), plug-in hybrids (PHEV) and battery electric vehicle (BEV) are finding more and homes each year as buyers start recognising their benefits. According to CleanTechnica, sales of PHEVs doubled in 2024. A PHEV combines elements of both a traditional HEV and an BEV. Take the Volvo XC60 Recharge, for example. Under the bonnet is a turbo- and supercharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, supported by an electric motor and an 18.8kWh battery. ALSO READ: Know the PHEVs from the BEVs in Volvo's new energy repertoire Volvo XC60 packs a punch It offers an electric range of up to 81km, which is more than the average commuter travels per day. If charging isn't possible, the engine serves as a backup. This eliminates range anxiety usually associated with EVs. And just because PHEVs are greener doesn't mean they are slower than ICE cars. The XC60 Recharge produces 340kW of power and 709Nm of torque. It can 100km/h from a standstill in just 4.8 seconds which is quicker than many V8-powered SUVs. But unlike thirsty ICE performance cars, PHEVs are renowned for its low running costs. While Volvo claim the XC60 Recharge will only sip 1.6 litres per 100km, it is a bit more complicated than that. First of all, the real-world number is higher, while electricity costs also needs to be factored into the equation. Put to the test So how does a PHEV's running costs compare to that of a similarly sized ICE SUV? The Citizen Motoring tested the larger Volvo XC90 Recharge over a 100km route that included a mix of highway and urban driving, heavy traffic, and multiple passengers on board to mirror how most people use their vehicles. Charging the battery at domestic rates cost us R56.40, while filling up the fuel tank with Unleaded 95 after 100km worked out to R55.10. The total cost of 100km was R111.50 which worked out to R1.11 per kilometre. An ICE SUV that achieves fuel consumption of 8L/100km will need R170.32 worth of fuel for every 100km. This works out to R1.70 per kilometre, which is more than 53% higher than the PHEV. ALSO READ: Volvo XC60 refreshed again after combustion engine commitment Best of both worlds This is clear proof that PHEVs offer a compelling blend of efficiency, performance, and flexibility. Reduced running costs make PHEVs a smart choice for those looking to cut fuel expenses without sacrificing power or long-distance capability. With rising fuel prices, the ability to drive on electric power alone for daily commutes adds even more value. As South Africans continue to embrace electrified vehicles, PHEVs stand out as a practical and cost-effective stepping stone toward full electrification.
