Having established themselves in the market decades ago these brands have become renowned for reliability, capability with a strong dealer network customers have support no matter where the road may take them. It is however 2023 and these brands need to stay ahead of the curve if they want to remain relevant. Let’s have a look at their latest offerings.
Toyota Fortuner:
What can be considered to be the most popular
SUV in our local market, the
Toyota Fortuner has grown from strength to strength since its introduction. The latest model now offers a new design and a host of new features. The new
Toyota Fortuner features a more muscular and aggressive design compared to its predecessor. The front fascia is dominated by a large grille, flanked by sleek LED headlights, giving the vehicle a modern look. The rear of the vehicle features redesigned taillights and a new bumper that enhances the sporty appeal of the
SUV.
Inside, the new
Toyota Fortuner boasts a spacious and well-appointed cabin. The dashboard features a modern design, with a large infotainment system. The seats are comfortable and offer excellent support, making them perfect for long journeys. Leather is standard across the
Fortuner range.
Under the hood, the new Toyota Fortuner comes with two engine options: a 2.4-liter turbodiesel engine producing 110 kW of power and 400 Nm of torque, and a 2.8-liter turbodiesel engine delivering 150 kW of power and 500 Nm of torque. Both engines come with a six-speed automatic gearbox and are available in either 4x2 or 4x4 configuration.
Ford Everest
Hot off of the production line comes the latest
Ford Everest. The
Everest has been fighting for top spot with the
Fortuner much like the Ranger and Hilux have been. The latest
Everest though packs a potent punch thanks to a fast array of new technology, design and engine options.
The latest
Everest features a more muscular, modern and eye-catching design. A bold front end with large headlights and C-Shaped LED set this
SUV apart. Inside the
Everest features the largest infotainment screen in the segment. Wireless smartphone connectivity, a digital instrument cluster and other luxury appointments have elevated these vehicles standing within the segment.
Furthermore, the 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine is now complemented by a V6 option. With 184kW and 600Nm of torque the V6 model sets a benchmark within the segment. Could this new Everest be the best of the bunch? We think so.
Isuzu mu-X
Like the
Fortuner which is based on the Hilux, this new mu-X is based on the latest
Isuzu D-Max bakkie and follows the success of the outgoing model. The second-generation mu-X boasts bold new styling, a larger and quieter cabin, luxurious materials, and next generation driver assistance and safety features.
The new mu-X debuts
Isuzu’s new look for its passenger vehicles, an expression of the brand’s bold identity and pursuit of luxury and exclusivity. The mu-X Onyx has a new 9 inch infotainment system that offers intuitive touch functions along with steering wheel mounted controls for audio and telephone operation. Apple CarPlay (wireless) and Android Auto are standard applications along with Bluetooth and audio streaming, Wi-Fi, integrated mobile handsfree and rear-view camera.
The mu-X also features a newer version of its 3.0-litre turbo diesel power plant. The new motor is matched to a smooth shifting 6 speed automatic gearbox. Isuzu engineers have paid particular attention to the engine’s performance in three key areas, namely fuel consumption, power, and engine noise. Power is now 140kW and 450Nm which might be slightly lower than its competitors however it does not seem to lack in pace.
Mitsubishi Pajero Sport
Like the others on this list, the
Pajero Sport offers trusted reliability and has built a name for itself throughout the African continent. While
Mitsubishi seems to have taken a back seat in the sales race, the new
Pajero Sport is a vehicle that should be on your list, and here is why.
Under the bonnet, the technology remains unchanged.
The tried and tested 2.4L MIVEC turbo diesel engine is paired with a smooth shifting six-speed automatic transmission featuring Intelligent Shift Control, offering 133kW and 430 Nm of torque.
A standout feature of the
Pajero Sport is its Dynamic Shield front grille, giving it a stylish and modern appearance. This is complemented by strong yet flowing lines, rugged and durable finishes and an unmistakable
SUV character that demands attention on the road.
Key features that can be found inside include black leather seats, power slide and reclining function for the driver’s seat, newly added power lumbar support, electric windows all round with one-touch auto up/down function, and dual-zone climate control with a rear ventilation duct for the second row of seats.
A multi-function leather-clad steering wheel places audio and cruise control settings at the driver’s fingertips, while the full-colour digital instrument display ensures visibility of all relevant information.
Credit: Justin Jacobs
