This week, news relating to the South African motoring sphere came from an array of car manufacturers. Speaking to APEX at the local launch of the new C-Class, Mercedes-Benz South Africa revealed to us when we can expect the C43 and C63 AMG to arrive on local shores. Another big-ticket motoring news item was the launch of the next-generation Ford Everest.
Mercedes was, however, not the only firm to announce local launch dates for upcoming models. Volkswagen SA announced when the Taigo will arrive here and what engine will be powering its latest compact crossover. Land Rover, meanwhile, revealed pricing for the new Range Rover and Stellantis has previewed the first-ever electric Jeep. Here’s what you need to know about this week in motoring…
1. Mercedes-Benz South Africa reveals SA launch date for new C43 and C63 AMG
At the local launch of the W206-generation C-Class (watch our in-depth video review of the C220d here), Mercedes-Benz confirmed to APEX the C43 AMG will arrive here during the third quarter of 2022. The new, (‘500 kW’, as hinted by a representative) C63 AMG will arrive in SA during the first quarter of next year.
2. Next-generation Ford Everest revealed boasting V6 power
Ford has finally whipped the wraps off the next-generation Everest. According to the Blue Oval brand, the new model is built tough and capable on the outside and provides occupants with a sanctuary-like, comfortable interior. The latest edition of the firm’s seven-seater, bakkie-based SUV has been “engineered to excite”, Ford says. According to the company, the objective for building the next-gen Everest was clear. It had to be tough on the outside, have a comfortable cabin and “amazing” capability.
3. Volkswagen South African reveals local launch date and engine option for upcoming Taigo
Volkswagen’s coupé-styled compact SUV will join its T SUV siblings in the first half of 2022. The Taigo will be powered by the firm’s 1.0-litre, turbocharged petrol motor. The turbo-triple unit directs 85 kW exclusively to the front axle via VW’s DSG dual-clutch transmission.
4. Land Rover South Africa announces pricing for the new Range Rover
Priced from R2 861 000, the new Range Rover is scheduled to land in SA midway through 2022. The flagship Range Rover will be available with the option of a trio of seating arrangements, three trim grades and three powertrains. Standard and long wheelbase variants will be on offer. See pricing and specification here.
5. Stellantis previews the first-ever Jeep electric SUV
Scheduled to make its global debut early next year, Stellantis says the electrified Jeep model signifies the brand’s continuous initiatives toward the full electrification of its SUV portfolio. In addition, the firm says it aims to expand the Jeep brand’s reach and take the next step to the achievement of Jeep’s vision of ‘Zero Emission Freedom’.
